A thread for RP in the world of Harahel, a world of fantasy, magic, and adventure. Drawing on tropes from RPGs both east and west, fantasy literature, and anime, the setting is constantly in flux, decided in large part by the players themselves.To join, download the CYOA through the link and create a character. When making a build, try to include some information about your character if you plan to RP besides just the build. Optional of course, but it encourages others to ask questions and talk with you. The only expansion pack we use is the Imouto Expansion.>Current Version of CYOAhttps://arkavite.com/harahel/>Places of Interest (Full Size)https://imgchest.com/p/o24akgke7lj————>link to dedicated IRChttps://rizon.net/chat/ || channel:#HarahelBusStation==RULES==>Do not attempt to force others into a scene.>It's okay to say no if a scene becomes uncomfortable.>PVP should be mutually agreed upon beforehand.>Kender have PVP on at all times.>Keep posts within the bound of good taste, eschewing excessive gore and the like.>Extreme or lewd content should be binned. Pedophilia is strictly forbidden.>Other CYOAs may be used for inspiration or to provide structure. See the irc for more details.If something is unclear, refer to IRC.>TQIf you notice this question, how do you like the RP? Any changes you want to make?>Themehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Jzp5H4mQVE==Bulletin Board==>GuildhallThe home base; a jumping off point for adventure or a place to return to, whether that be to celebrate victories or nurse your wounds.>Reuby's NookA courier delivers a strange book to the Nook she discovered during her travels — jumping into the depths of the pages, Thej and her expedition group explore the secrets hidden within between its covers!>Foxdoll Manor InfiltrationA perilous journey for membership or reward. Throwaway characters recommended.>Othrysian ReclamationA soldier from Othrysia calls for aid to reclaim the city from a dark sorcerer!
Previous Threadhttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77337897
Link to post of Venice-Anon's previous posts in case anyone missed them!https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77337897/#q77337966
A link to interesting posts about Riftgates and Spatial Magic!https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77337897/#q77340744https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77337897/#q77340790
https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77337897/#q77342867It does also bring up what happens if powerful spatial magic goes through a portal, maybe there's safety concerns there? https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77337897/#q77343992And also that if they're loot, possibly how they can be created as something should have created licenses in the pastand what that creation would involve, has to be a pretty precise process to avoid the licenses malfunctioning and you ending up in the far lands anywaysMonitoring also made me think about how public the location of a gate should be
>>77352277been a while since I saw that one
/trash/ has been terribly fast lately...>>77352269>If you notice this question, how do you like the RP? Any changes you want to make? I do thoroughly enjoy it — though I wish it was a little faster overall. >>77352363>It does also bring up what happens if powerful spatial magic goes through a portal, maybe there's safety concerns there? I would suppose that it would depend on whether the magic is everywhere-injective. If it's not, that's where a lot of the classical problems with dimensions within dimensions comes up. There is also the question of whether Rift Gates are compact or not — they do seem to have a finite measure, so it's likely to be bounded in some manner over a typical space rather than a true n-dimensional manifold. It could even be a lower dimensional element than typical space-time with the reduction being a compactness that thus allows them to function as they do.https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77337897/#77340744The ring itself could very well simply be a tool that prevents the compactions from affecting the bearer. Otherwise, the results of being dimensionally crushed through some mapping of 3-D space into a lower dimensional space will inevitably result in lost information; for a person, that means self intersection and a complete loss of function, essentially tearinng them apart and pasting them into an infinitely flat sheet. The other outcome could he explained by a quirk of applying that dimensional factor or a flux within the space that allows a complex space to form in the manifold, but because the complex space has no specific coordinates that can relate to the other Rift Gates, it simply applies a rotation over the field and you end up rotated 90 degrees and on the other side of the world as a result.A further result of that is that Rift Gates would not necessarily have a ∆P at all, and moving through some space of a unique company manifold over normal space would make collision impossible. I'll elaborate more later.
>>77352363>>77353121I'm not sure there are any issues with just attempting to cast a spell through the portals. Probably just ends up in the far lands. You could probably feasibly send a portal through a portal without too much issue as long as you weren't trying to send a portal to itself. It does seem though like the default mishap without the Riftgate license is you end up in the Far Lands though I suppose its possible that other bad things could happen. Either way it seems unlikely you come back without divine intervention.Does make me wonder a bit what happens if you step halfway through a riftgate before being pulled back. Riftgates that act as temporary two way portals make that a lot easier than the idea of it being one way. Wormholes are easy to visualize.
>>77353924I would agree with there being no catastrophic consequence of casting theough a rift gate. It just wouldn't be targetable. Portals within portals depends on how we want to handle embedding, but in the case I've proposed it wouldn't result in any malfunction.It is very likely that there would be no way back, at least not in the way one arrived. We're not told whether someone would arrive at a rift gate in the Far Lands or simply dropped on the far side of the world, so to speak. In the former case, there is a chance that one could return through the gate and arrive on Harahel, but there is also the chance of the catastrophic "torn to shreds" clause being more likely. In the latter, it's highly unlikely unless you're already of a spatial proficiency that would make rift gates look primitive in comparison.Given that there is always a progressive rather than immediate movement through — one walks into the gate and out the other side — there's likely no consequence if they're wearing a license. If they're not, then the consequences begin to apply as soon as they move through the initial boundary. Given that it either results in catastrophic damage or being acted upon, the internal forces would likely result in either consequence occurring. Someone's leg could be torn apart without their whole body being pushed through or that same person could get dragged in by the gravitational forces resultant over the internal manifold and tossed to the Far Lands due to a transform, I'd wager.
>>77354935Actually rereading the text it does seem like outside of an Arbiter directly helping you it may be possible to escape from the Far Lands. Its implied that while the majority of Riftgates there are broken that a few do connect back to the main landmass. The problem is you need to find one of these working gates AND have a Riftgate License. It may even be possible to find a dungeon in the Far Lands and obtain one if you didn't come through with one. Probably an almost impossible task, and even if you do the Arbiters are likely to probably seal off that exit after you leave so you don't try to exploit the Dev test zone.
>>77356626Maybe for EOH's at least Arc intervenes and turns it into a game?She's the sort to do that
>>77357190This is also for me. Thankie.
>>77359146Did ara nun afk while in a trap?
>>77357537Possibly. Or if you're Chosen you may be able to get rescued. Arc is likely pretty busy with things off Harahel. Not sure she knows where every adventurer is.Back to Rift Gates though I'm not sure how much more we can gleam from the text. They're mostly safe to use if you have a Riftgate Licence and should not be used without one. I'm wondering how do small villages protect themselves from attacks through Riftgates. I assume a small village only has T2 guards. They wouldn't be able to hold off an attack particularly well. A small group of T3 slavers could probably make short work of any defense they could mount. How are the more remote villages in Encore handling it?
10 warning watch out
>>77359146Lewd nun!
>>77352269My major concern is being able to work my magic like I did before. I can only imagine everyone else has improved overtime while I've been, well, let's say preoccupied.My second concern is being able to breathe life into Nemo enough to be different and entertaining in her own right.Lose controlI won't crashRollin' highThrow the die
>>77363654
>>77363766Eh don't sweat it too much, at the end of the day. This is for fun. As long as you give it a good shot and realize it takes time to get back into the swing of things, you'll be fine.
>>77363766Improvements are often begotten from comparison and contrast; even if you've been absent for a while, the writing itself should improve as you get into the groove. As far as having a different feel for Nemo, focus on her preferred means to interact with others. A particular tone makes for an effective method of differentiating between characters. Direct or evasive, genuine or reserved, gregarious or cynical — each helps to develop the feel of one character in contrast.
>>77363957>>77364677I'll be patient then; see how I hold up against those who respond and adjust from there.>focus on her preferred means to interact with others.>Direct or evasive, genuine or reserved, gregarious or cynical.Despite mine own delulu it seems I was on the right path. I have confidence then.However I have learned that I do thrive on interaction and, while I cannot respond lively, I can respond definitely. I suppose as a [General] post:>Questions for the Sognando setting?>Questions for Nemo specifically?>Questions for Nita in her absence?Allow me a chance to feed off of everyone's energy like before but with input from both the old blood and the fresh blood~!
>>77362193Thinking a bit more on it maybe its the kind of thing that just has to be prepared for. A T2 gate encasing the Rift Gate would slow down invaders and if you have a gate in your settlement you probably have a way to call for help, possibly even an Adventurer's Guild rep who could quickly summon aid. After all, if they attackers came through the gate that means you can score yourself one or multiple Rift Gate Licenses without having to hope to find one in a dungeon. A big payout even if the village can't afford to pay you for the rescue.
There's a fire and it's not my fault!>>77362193>>77366280Wouldn't any such an incursion, regardless of size, preclude needing licenses for each body to travel safely through any given gate to their shared destination? Not to mention what places actually have a gate beyond the major locales.It arguably could be that a license is super rare even in high tier dungeons to prevent such travel.C'mon break the beat please, dancing through the night!Kalinka? Malinka? Sing me the right chord~Head in pieces, am I alright?
>>77367281well they can touch each other and in theory risk having a single person hold the license that waybut that is pretty riskystill, best to be prepared as a settlement rather than not being prepared, after all you never know what someone superpowered might do for fun
>>77366051Dialogue is the root of connection, after all.~ Once you're in the thick of it things will come more easily.With regards to Sognando (and by extension Nemo), there have been quite a few vague mentions of consequence and the inhabitants who find their dreams were but fetters to drag them deeper into the nightmare. Nemo mentions those who break themselves upon her — converting the weak to her own purposes, while those that can resist have their own utility. What sort of fates do those unlucky enough to find themselves at the mercy of the powerful in Sognando meet?
>>77367281>Not to mention what places actually have a gate beyond the major locales.Actually we know this one. Its part of the [Far Lands] description.>They're about a similar size as well. Small ones you'd find in villages, bigger ones in cities, and huge ones you'd find out in the wilderness.So we can assume some of the smaller Rift Gates are in cities that can't really stand up to a real assault. Hard to say how rare Licenses are true. Arc was giving em out for just 10 fate points (I really wish Yulia had taken one) but they could be top tier loot to everyone else. Actually going back through the CYOA it actually doesn't say its Dungeon loot. In fact, they may be extremely limited. All the CYOA says is that MOST of the items available to pick can be found in the world. The only one we really know for sure is the [Endless Polaroid] is a 'Surprisingly rare item that spawns in mid-tier dungeons'. It could be as easy to get as finding an artisan and handing them a big bag of shekels or maybe there is a fixed number with no new ones being created. I think though that High Tier rare dungeon loot is a good level though. Enough to replace those that are lost or destroyed. Probably carefully monitored by the Arbiters to make sure that the supply never grows out of hand.
>>77367281Shout out to Matryoshka, reminds me of the Jubyphonic version.>A certain vamp handles the instrumentals.
>>77366051Just more a general thing maybe just wondering, what's your personal favorite part of the Sognando setting?
>Walks by and looks around, seeking for fine women to breed.
up again
>TQ I very much enjoy the RP. I think it's going rather well.
>>77366051I haven't heard of this Sognado, whats it about?
>>77380911https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/73440654/#73530470 This is the original post, I believe.
>>77381760Interesting! Though I'm not sure a place that isn't under vampire control would be any safer. It might be the type of place that those who make enemies in Nocturne but are too monstrous for Encore or Ballad end up.
>>77368287Now that we've gone over some of the functionality of the Rift Gates how do we imagine commerce, and trade restriction to work through the gates. Each nation has their own unique goods but I'm sure their rulers would like a chunk of the profits before the goods come into their lands. The gates are probably a location that has to be monitored just like the boarders and ports. How would you even manage that? Especially as a small village? You might need a system of designated trading hub rifts to determine the goods you're carrying just to get the papers needed to travel.
>>77384664Not to mention the rarity of Riftgate licenses to begin with. Like that would give the people who have some a decent bit of soft or hard economic power too.
>>77384664Customs Authorities! There is naturally some desire for protectionism of local industry (and environment, to prevent invasive species getting through), so there would likely be some bureaucracy surrounding rift gate usage in the largest cities. You'd likely need to declare your cargo and provide a manifest if a business or merchant (or simply over a specific quantity/value of goods), as well as sign some documents showing your arrival and intent in the area. Fees or taxes (e.g. tariffs) may also be applied at that point. High risk goods (alchemical, plant, live animal, magical devices) would probably need to be inspected upon departure and arrival to prevent invasive species and contraband from getting through. Banned goods (likely poisons or dangerous alchemical concoctions alongside undead creation magical items or similar dark magics/light magics depending on region) would likely be seized, and then the person transporting them may be arrested or forced to return. I would imagine smuggling would be fairly common, though in places with a high concentration of light magic proficient people it may be a touch more difficult. I do generally figure that magic isn't omnipresent at anything above tier 1, so even the simple truths divining element of light magic is likely only really feasible in larger areas — even then, one could also find workarounds with magic items themselves to ward against divinations.
>>77385716It'd be a rough job for sure. Seems likely that you'd have to first enter through one of the gates in a major city or designated Customs gate. From there they probably have the means to check if you have a Hammerspace. If not actual T4 magic users perhaps just artifacts that do the job. Like a wand that lights up if you have anything in a hammerspace compartment. Once you get all they way through and pay your taxes you're given papers for your now legal goods which allows you to travel to all the gates in the region. No papers, they just don't let you into the small towns through the gate.Though with the way Gate travel works there's a possibility that someone gets their papers, jumps to a wilds gate, loads up on contraband, sticks it in their hammerspace and then jumps to a remote gate. But there could easily be random checks, especially if you act suspicious. Get caught and all your goods are now forfeit.The Esca clan keeps it pretty simple. There are probably less than 5 gates on the whole mountain range, and if you come through one you pay the full toll they charge for anyone passing through the mountain. Since they charge per soul they don't need to worry as much about hammerspace smuggling. Cheaper than the official entry points but your goods are still illegal.
>>77387249It would be a lot of administrative overhead. As for detecting Hammerspace, that may be likely in capitals or similarly large cities — given that T4 light magic should number very few and artifacts of that level likewise, and there are better uses for those that can resurrect the dead — but would likely be rare. Hammerspace for most is a spatial magic, with the EOHs being unique in that their boons are essentially divine boons. This presents an issue where those that have native means of Hammerspace also have the means to avoid the bureaucracy by moving through alternative (read: grey/black market) channels. I would imagine that most jurisdictions might employ a few tier 2 light users to confirm simple truths for identity and cargo manifests and little more unless they have specific reason to. There will always be a grey and black market with people looking to skirt laws, taxes, tariffs, and bans. Simple corruption is likely, alongside spatial magic users managing to get around the typical means of regulation. Random checks would certainly be in play at the largest rift-gate-ports. That is sensible. Charging per soul is effective, and since there is little need to control contraband or tariffs there are few downsides. Off-loading goods in Nocturne shouldn't be too difficult, but the other way around would require substantial connections with fences and the like. Doable, but difficult.
10 warning
>>77388308Thats why you funnel them through designated points. You go to one of the main hubs to get your goods checked and get a piece of paper saying you've been cleared. If you show up at one of the other Rift Gates without it you get sent back, detained, or someone calls in the bounty hunters.I feel like Hammespace testing would be something that Encore, Nocturne, and Aria are at least able to manage. Its not easy but they CAN do it. The big cities might have you walk through a magic detecting archway, while smaller villages may rely on the paperwork and random inspections. Its not unbeatable by any means but the risk of you getting caught is there if you try to sneak by. Either by high tier Spacial or Light magic. Especially if your sales partners get caught and end up ratting you out for a reduced sentence. We're possibly also overestimating the amount of Riftgates used in commerce. You can bring a party through the gate for sure. But a cart of goods might be a more difficult thing to move. Adventurers might even get a free pass if the guild vouches for them. You get to move more freely through the gates and the guild takes a cut of your adventuring work. If you ever are found to be smuggling then you also lose your guild membership.
>>77389913Ballad might completely sidestep the issue. Hard to say how each island behaves but its probably a lot less organized. You might get through with hardly a check or half your goods might be seized. Probably gotta know who you're dealing with and where you're going. I can see their whole financial system working more through tribute and protection money than more organized taxes.
Might be fun to discuss other transport methods. Seems like Harahel is roughly the size of Eurasia. I can't see land transport through the Wilds as a viable option no matter how well prepared you are. Which means that if you don't have access to a gate you've got to go by ship. The North route looks pretty icy and the South route takes you near to Ballad. I'm gonna assume that wind magic is common enough that each ship would have a specialist that could probably keep the ship going faster than most fantasy ships but you're still probably looking at a month plus journey. Even just from Encore to Hebineir probably takes a at least a week.
>>77392552Hard to say if airships would be possible or not. A high level of spacial could reduce the effect of gravity on a ship but at that point teleportation would probably be more efficent. Though since the world is designed to fit fantasy tropes perhaps the Arbiters put in materials that make it more feasable. There could be trees with an ultra light but still strong wood and a magic could make Electrolysis easy if the Arbiters willed it. Still I would think they're fairly rare if they exist at all.
up top
>>77389913Speaking of the Adventurer's Guild that may be a perk of guild membership. I'd guess a majority of outposts for the guild are located at Riftgates for ease of communication and transport. They probably try to have a license at each so they can transport adventures that don't posess one. Probably gets rolled into their Guild fees or maybe they charge per trip. Seems reasonable that as long as you're in good standing you probably can get the fast travel service, though your destinations are more limited. Rift travel appears to be blind so they're probably less willing to head out to locations without an receiving outpost.
>>77389913high value low weight goods such as gemstones or in general magical items definitely could do with riftgate transport even if for security
>>77405501Riftgates are probably the best or second best way to travel long distance if you only have have a bag of goods you can carry yourself. A trusted Spacial mage is probably the only better option since you're less restricted on your exit point. Its never stated but I assume there is a bit of a limit of how much Riftgate you can use in a day. An adventuring party is never going to hit this limit but say you toted 100 cartfuls of ore through a set of gates I'd imagine you might strain your license meaning you may lose your cargo or end up at an unexpected destination. Or it could be the gates that run out of charge. Maybe after so many uses in a day they go dormant.For bulk shipping though going by sail is probably the best option. I imagine that Encore has the best wheat and Ballad the best sugar. Then you may want a big ship.Over land is probably the roughest. Though I suppose you may have both fantasy pack animals and automatons. Traveling through Encore is probably relatively safe and in Nocturne you need to pay for a personal guards. Possibly there are some rivers that the map is too light on detail to see.
>>77406368Makes me wonder about the sweeteners available in each region. Sugarcane makes sense for Ballad but everywhere else probably has a craving for sweets. Fruits are likely available all over Encore as well as a good chance of a sugar beet type crop. And with their tolerance for monsters in The Wilds Bee Girls may be plentiful. Nocturne may be out of luck but I could also see them cultivating a sweet grape that can grow without sunlight.
10 again
>>77410748Aria probably has the best fruit. I imagine all the monk types spend centuries tending to the orchards until the peaches are just perfect.
Beware the Neko-Politik.
>>77437920Nice tat
Please reply to this post with Aria Academy uniform proposals.
>>77447720
>>77448989This one is somewhat evocative of a maid. Even so, it has quite a bit of charm with the sailor-style blouse and collar. Is the choker a part of the uniform as well or a personal addition?
>>77450751>This one is somewhat evocative of a maidIntentionally so, to invoke the notion of subservience to the teachers and academy itself.>Even so, it has quite a bit of charm with the sailor-style blouse and collarNecessary for the school uniform aesthetic - it is still an academy, after all.>Is the choker a part of the uniform as well or a personal addition?Personal addition, though I would envision personal styling to be encouraged as long as it was within the general aesthetic.
>>77451093That is one way to go about it. I suppose it does depend on what sort of organization one imagines it to be. Is it a strict, disciplinarian style of organization with militant trappings or a more loose, collegiate style atmosphere with uniforms acting as a unifying element? I suppose a bit of the former is fundamentally required if one is to have uniforms at all. Maids do certainly function along those lines, and their uniforms communicate that.Agreed. Classical stylings help marry the two separate concepts.Along the lines of "what is required' rather than "what is restricted" would lead to them being fairly popular, I think. Accessories of all sorts, perhaps with magical purposes or just purely magic accessories.
>>77452313This might be a bit contradictory, but my thought on Aria has always been a "There are rules, and if you break them, you will be in significant, legitimate trouble. But you can do anything you want that' does not contradict the rules.", with the first rule being the catch all "Do what the teachers say", which theoretically sounds pretty strict, but in practice allows for a pretty high degree of freedom. As long as you're not a problem child that has attracted the attention of teachers interested in keeping you in line.
>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77003053/#q77012359 (Guard)>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77003053/#q77081488 (Emmy)Selene watched those dangerous looking sky serpents(?) wing around in the air a bit longer after she confirmed nothing else was going to jump out at them. Just to not look like she was ENTIRELY out of the loop, she gave slight nods to the guard chattering to the little maid.>[“Okay, sending the bats to scout is out of the question.” Selene thought to her selves, a chorus of worried agreements echoing about her mind. “Knew we should have finished the gargoyle project before we turned up.”]>[“Nothing we can do about it now!” Pandia sing-songed.>[“What else did we forget before we came over here?” Hecate sighed. “Everything okay back home? Did we get the witch her components? The succubi sated? Talia has the note we left her, right?”]While the vampire went down her mental checklist, each item numbered and recited one-by-one between her squabbling alter-egos, she almost missed the hand on her thigh as telepathic info was quietly relayed to her by Emily.Lower Villas. Spired Church. Right. With another bobbing nod that set her locks bouncing, Selene smiled towards the man, reached into her infinity bag and handed him the first bottle her hands closed around, some kind of spirit she likely nicked from someone else and forgot about. Noblesse oblige and all.“Thank you! Here. Hopefully, the main army should be by shortly so you can share this safely. Do take care.”And she turned and strode off, already certain the maid was at her heels as they linked back up with the moth waving towards them.
>>77454148>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77003053/#q77227997 (Moth of Great Luminosity)>“That was… intense.”“Very!”>“Did any of them know where we might find our V.I.P.’s?”“We have leads. Father Corgi-”>[“Calgi.”]Selene took a few moments to compose herself. Gods, why couldn’t these people get some proper Nocturnian names…?“Excuse me. THE PRIEST shouldn’t be too far. In a church past the Lower Villas. Supposedly, a Major there should have some holdout around there too. Might have information on our diplomat too! Only a matter of HOW you want to get there. Gondola or risk whatever we could run into with the apartments.”>(Sorry about the wait for this, trying to make a space station.)
>>77457440Impressive how she manages to keep her gaze at neckline.
What is appropriate dress for a harvest fest?
>>77352299I think I have almost everyone! I may have missed some posts, though! Amughar, Bene, if you've responded already can you please link me the posts? Thank you! I'll get replies out as soon as possible.
(Apologies for the late reply!)>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77003053/#77012267Bene performs a little jump in place, pleased with the group's victory, however minute in the grand scheme of this operation."Nice! I'm happy those nasty skimming scum are dead! I'd rather not see more of them, though it is unlikely...">https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77003053/#77132591 (Whisper)"To the victor, the spoils! Go ahead—a moment's delay probably won't hurt.">https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77003053/#77252150 (Alice)"It stung. A lot actually... I'll be fine, though. My passive [Regeneration] coupled with a potion will have it heal just fine."The elapid imbibes an uncorked vial that materialized and dematerialized just as quickly as its contents were downed."Well, some distractions would be nice, but let's see how far we can get with just stealth. I don't mind going by water, it's just that the two of you are less aquatically-inclined as I am. Let's continue by land!">>77475371(Terribly sorry! Better late than never?)
>>77462265Does the supplier for this one also do sets for guest speakers visiting the academy?
https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/76329134/#76564837“Me? Too modest?” A laugh passes from his lips as Sol speaks of the elements involved in the spell. “I’m sure you could make something with a few thousandths tolerance with enough calibration and a well-made flat plate — a reflection of your dedication to a given project and the focus required. Just as others in my field focus on barriers or teleportation, mine is on the finest elements: the most delicate and small corpuscles of space and time itself, the very geometries it forms...” He lets that hang in the air a moment before continuing, “That is to say that I’ve spent more time doing math than some people have spent learning their entire specialty.” Preternatural perception catches the shift in tint as Sol leans down, moving his own gaze to look over the smaller plants that take advantage of the cultivated path to drink the nutrients that are usually monopolized by the trees. Ceramic-like petals form little cups of nectar that devour small insects, invisibly small spines piercing deep into its prey…[Continued]
>>77478877https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/76745118/#76745363“We all have our strengths. That I can play logistics was by design rather than coincidence, after all. Riftgates are far too bureaucratic for my tastes.”His gazes once more move through the canopy, considering what Alice was asking as the eyes marked each creature he sees. “Perhaps those who pretend to be fools are the squirrels who have discovered the joys of simple living. Unless we just have a remarkably intelligent subspecies around here. I know the grau-squirrels in Min are not exactly displaying this sort of intelligence.”“Hm. I can’t quite place them myself either… I don’t think it’s likely it’s a cognitovector, maybe it’s the influence of mushi?” He muses, “We aren’t exactly short on sleigh-beggys and those possessed of a demon core, after all. It could have attracted a few that dwell in those shadowed cracks of perception and bled out its influence through these.” He moves his face closer to one, withdrawing as the multiple eyes couldn’t settle on a single construction even when seeing every surface.
>>77473090H-he's fast!
>>77352269OP listen to me
Which resemble a senketsu?
>>77475371https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/77003053/#q77012165>Amu takes a moment to surveil the room, the clear signs of a struggle. A break-in? The window seems to have been broken from the outside but its not impossible that people in here were trying to get out either."...but why only one window and why so few bodies?">He can't help but think out loud as he sees the half-written records. Well whatever it was, it came without warning."Yukia. I was thinking we head through that stone door. Mind watching my back just in case? I could also take the risk and scout ahead but perhaps you noticed something I did not or have a better idea?">>77475371(Really fucking sorry. Here's the post.)
>>77490780I don't see any reason the answer isn't "both" depending entirely on what your preferred style is.
>>77488666YES!
- Four Trees Harvest Festival -An event open to all, including newcomers.The short version: Four Trees is hosting its annual Harvest Festival and all are invited. Visitors will be physically and magically nerfed for the duration of their stay making them roughly on par with the average town guard. Vampires, ghouls, and other monsters are all permitted to visit as long as they don't misbehave. Accommodations have been made to make their stay more comfortable. The event will cycle through day and night cycles until we tire of it! Anyone is free to suggest and organize sub events.Background: Four Trees is one of Xares'(Encore) main food producing towns. Vast cereal and vegetable fields dominate the landscape with a few orchards and forests rounding out the countryside. The main town is a short distance from the festivities, its very possible to go visit, but much of the activity is centered around quick pop up tents and platforms in the cleared wheat fields. Many things are planned from general revelry, to local customs, to oddities imported from distant lands. Expect food, drink, sex, crafts, activities! But don't get into trouble Four Trees is home to a few retired adventures and one very old and powerful Marionette and while all the visitors may have their strength sapped, the same isn't true for the locals!Mastema's Ritual:In an effort to keep things safe the residents have completed a ritual to Mastema, to make sure things don't get too out of hand in town. Natives to the town are uneffected but anyone coming through the gate or crossing the boarders will find themselves as weak as an ordinary citizen. Physical skills are capped at 2, Magical skills are capped at 1, Mental skills are unaffected but you're disruptive you may be asked to leave. [Lucky!] is disabled, most other boons are unaffected.
- Night 0 locales and Summary -The Festival hasn't started yet but people are already arriving through the gate. Every traveler getting checked for dangerous items and being given direction. There's a lot to cover before the festival even begins.The Rift Gate:In collaboration with the Adventures guild several individuals are jumping between many of Harahel's Rift Gates to pick up attendants. Guild members can travel for their usual amount but even non-members can make the jump for a reasonable price. Its advised you pay for your return trip in advance so you don't spend all your coin at the festival and get stranded! This year only 3 items are truly banned. Artifacts capable of reversing the flow of time, Holy symbols that repel or otherwise aggravate the undead, non-sapient undead larger than a halfling. Encores laws still apply so don't go flashing it around if would get you in trouble in one of the fortified cities but the local enforcement isn't going to confiscate it.Visitors who didn't book a room at the inn ahead of time can rent a space from the local lord to set up camp in the cleared fields near the Lord's manor. It costs about as much as a room at the inn but once you have a plot cram in as many people as you want. Plots are protected by a blanket [Home Sweet Tome]. Camping out in the woods is free but don't expect any protection. If you don't have a tent some are still available to rent or buy.
The Day Tent:A small distance from everything else, bordering a dense forest is a massive tent. It has to be at least partially magic, one could easily fit a medium sized house inside. The locals keep a respectable distance but those with a paler complexion may be guided there. The interior seems even larger, either due to spacial magic or just good design. Several 'rooms' are separated for privacy with canvas walls but a good half of the total area is filled with tables. It may take a bit to find the proprietor but the owner is actually a young female Gobbo from Nocturne. By night the tent serves food, drink, and a seemingly endless supply of tabletop games. But when the sun rises, many of the tables are cleared away, replaced with cots and bedding. In reality the tent is primarily a place for Vampires to stay during the day. The walls are thick enough that only harmless diffused light can get through and its close enough to the dense forest that if you had some resilience you could feasibly go for a stroll. Private rooms are expensive, and there's no magical protection but they do offer just that, privacy. Its not strictly illegal to feed on a willing mortal but its still probably more polite to do it behind closed doors. Of course non vampires are free to visit or even stay, but they do need to keep the noise to a minimum while the sun is up.
>77368181>Nemo mentions those who break themselves upon her — converting the weak to her own purposes>What sort of fates do those unlucky enough to find themselves at the mercy of the powerful in Sognando meet?It depends on who you lose to. People in Sognando have different goals but they can broadly be placed into categories other categories. Losing may involve you being their toy on a personal level or an expendable tool for the more ambitious. The magic in Sognando enhances the Enchante property to extend beyond lewd acts and into mundanity. If someone were to lose to Nemo they would have a long servitude extended by clever contractual wordplay laced within her requests to those she's subjected. She isn't cruel but is loathe to relinquish a useful asset. Nemo is also prone to protecting her constituents so it may be in ones best interest to stay within her employ.>77368968This could very well fall flat on its face but I love Sognando trying to embrace both a dystopian cyberpunk aesthetic while confined to a medieval high fantasy world.Futuristic amenities exist in Sognando that don't exist elsewhere, along with commonplace magical objects that could be described as alien to outsiders. It is a clash of genres and it is entirely reasonable that people have mixed feelings about it but that is inherently part of the fun due to conflict being integral to the place.>77380911>77381760>77383671Thank you and correct! It is a place outside of typical strong-arm control but has it's own government and enforcement body in place. That doesn't mean someone couldn't find themselves trapped appropriately such as a runaway slave winding up in the manacles of a Nocturne slavers guild.>>77368791Matryoshka has in a way been my life.I am partial to both the original and the LolliaxKuraiinu version.>77501474>77501483(I want to join but I am not ready so I'll watch from the sidelines.)Time is fleeting!Madness takes it's toll~(I am considered spam again)
>>77503197>I am considered spam againHow rude, good to see you managed to get through it anyways
>>77503915I could solve it by giving everyone their own individual (You) but I also don't want to spam the thread with inconsequential posts.So anytime I bleed, you let me goYeah, anytime I feed you, get me? No?Anytime I seek you, let me knowBut I plan and see, just let me go-----------I don't believe anymore, your shallow heartKnow that it's you who chose to play this trick
>>77503197>>77503975>LolliaxKuraiinu versionUnfathomably based. Also seeing you really is always a breath of fresh air these days.
>>77503197>It is a clash of genresIt works really well though, since a lot of the building blocks were already in place with the rest of Nocturne, you just put them together in their logical conclusion
>>77501455>>77501474>>77501483Looks to be really fun, will check out later a bit more on how to partake.
>>77497733You're right.
>>77501483- The Day Tent -The tent can be seen from a distance as a faint glowing structure. Enough of the light within bleeding through to make it visible even from the Rift Gate. A dirt path leads from the main road up to the tent, seemingly carved with magic recently. Outside are posted some rules, a magical light illuminating the signboard with a soft blue light. Most of it seems to be there to inform any clueless individuals that they're wandering into the Vampire crash pad and that the vampires should behave themselves. 'If you're gonna bite, get a room or get out.' Some notes apply to gambling as well. 'No sore losers' and 'Its only cheating if you get caught, standard penalty'. At the very bottom in bold red text 'NO CREDIT'.At the moment the tent flaps are tied open but they look quite heavy. There probably isn't any direct sunlight getting in when they close. A rich meaty smell wafts in through the doorway and through a iron pipe sticking out the rear of the tent. Inside the tent is illuminated by dozens, possibly a hundreds of floating magical lights, illuminating the beige canvas walls. The floor was smoothed and magically sealed ahead of time. Tables and benches fill the majority of the space. At one end two staff work behind the counter, checking in guests, serving food and drink, and renting out games. A stacked goblin seems to be in charge with a Kotengu working to assist. A small Arka core seems to be welded to all the kitchen apparatuses.If one wishes they can rent a private room or just a cot. Once its close to dawn the tables will be moved and the space converted into a sleeping area. The rest of the tent is separated into individual rooms with actual beds as well as a few that can be reserved for 'recreational activities'. The meals offered are filling and hearty but not much variety. They're too busy for individual orders but all the ingredients are as fresh as they can be. They also sell concentrated blood vials at a huge markup.
>>77516153>Amughar feels a little out of place when he enters the Day Tent. He's been a bit too used to just wearing his armor these days. He can't help but feel exposed, weak, like back when he was in that terrible dungeon.>He takes a deep breath despite not needing to breathe anymore, it calms him down as he reads the signs about vampires. Part of him wonders if that's racist but he also isn't surprised either. Spend enough time in Nocturne and its easy to think its actually lenient of whoever is running the show here."Hi, I'd like to rent a private room please? Oh and I'd like to gamble so how do I do that?"
Gambling, you say?
>>77516930>There is a bit of a lull in the customers coming through. Most of the individuals coming through the gate now seem to be from Encore at the moment.>She finishes up with the last customers handing them a tag and a key before turning her attention up to Amughar."Sure thing. Just a standard single for you Handsome? How long you planning on staying?">She pulls a key and round tag off a board hanging from the walls of the tent. She collects Amu's coin. The rates are high, as much as one might pay for a premium room at an actual inn. She knows she's the only place left in town and she has no qualms about reliving her guests of their hefty sacks (of coin)."Now, room comes with a complementary trunk but no real locks on the room. Though I'd say someone would have to be real stupid to try and jump you in your room. Since you're staying a while laundry is free on the third day, just bundle your stuff up in your room and we'll take care of it. Bloodstains are extra through.""As for the gambling we got an old golem at the table over there dealing for blackjack. He'll take coins from Nocture or Encore. Not the gold from Ballad though, they're getting thinner every time I check. Coins aught to get more plump over time. Oooor you can just slide down to Tenny on the other end there, borrow one of our other games. Play for fun, gold, seals, your body, whatever you like, just no wagering people. Plenty of other customers to play with, though I'll try to make time for you later handsome if you're interested.">She runs her fingers over Amugar's hand with a bit of a smirk. There are a few command seals trailing up her arm but no signs of them on the rest of her exposed flesh."Just be prepared to make a BIG wager if you want my personal attention."
>>77501483>Oozing up from the nearby river, taking a moment to adjust herself to a mostly human size, and giving her tentacles a good stretch, Kari makes her way to the village>She wasn't quite sure how welcome she'd be, but at the same time she had her place, chosen of Mastema and what not, though it was mostly for relaxation >Feeling the wash of the magic come over her she shivers, at least she had enough magic left to remain comfortable and well hydrated but that was about it>If asked she might be able to help provide refreshments she thought, seeing everyone set up>The tent caught her attention for a moment, scratching her head, well more squishing it, she remembered it had been a long while since she'd seen any land undead, and curiosity gets the better of her>>77516153>>77516930>>77518829"Ooh vampires, and gambling, and golems and oh, a goblin without gills, that's funny, like I knew most of you didn't have them but I kinda see gill versions most of the time""Everyone here mastema people, no offense but you look like you might be one of ono's exchange students""I'm being rude, sorry, name's Kari, usually I'm out in the ocean but I swam up the river all the way here and looks like fun">She digs around in her body for a bit, fishing out a couple gold coins and some pearls"you accept pearls and shipwreck gold?"
>>77516153>The next person to walk up to the day tent was... A maid? And a lone marionette, at that.>She seemed rather sure she was in the right place, at least."A room for one, please. And, if gambling is supposed to be the main attraction here, I may inquire as to whether you have need for dealers. Otherwise, I am at least used to dealing with vampires, and will be able to enjoy myself here.">Aside from leaving that offer lingering in the air, Emily didn't say anything more quite yet.>She also paid little mind to those that had entered before her, for the time being.
>>77517881
>>77519158>Even Griddy is a little suprised to see the mixmatched Kari walk/slide in. She had prepared for vampires, spirits, even a reserved room for a bat Okami but she wasn't expecting any water creatures. She's somewhat offended by her derision but has been a host long enough to not sour her look with a frown."No no. Not affiliated with anyone. I'm from Nocturne but you'd be surprised how often there is a need for a big tent.""What do you need for a room exactly. If its just a bed we can manage that... if you need something like a pool... well that would have to wait until tomorrow and would cost double. Just the regular? Well alright. We have some slime resistant sheets, they may help you retain moisture. There's actually a shower back there as well. Just don't hog it for too long.">She eyes the treasure with some interest, her Tengu assistant's eyes go wide and she slowly approaches before she's shooed away with a sharp look from the Gobbo."We'll take the gold but pearls won't work. Wouldn't have a clue how much they're worth."She doesn't have a scale but her hand is steady, Kari isn't getting a great exchange rate but she should be able to cover her stay fairly easily. She's given a tag and key as well. Hers a different color from Amughar's.>>77520999She collects the coins from the Marionette without any fuss or stares. She couldn't be sure if she was collecting it for her master or if she was traveling all on her own but coin was coin."Very well. One single. Actually the gambling isn't the primary focus. More a really lucrative side business. I find it helps though to set some ground rules. Especially when operating in Nocturne a few patrons get violent with each other after a losing streak or cheating accusation. Besides a lot of the games are just for killing time. A good number of patrons can't leave while the suns up.""So unfortunately we just need the one dealer. LOCKR is great at it."
>>77518829>The white-haired androgynous man nods his head. The lack of locks doesn't help in the feeling of weakness. Could it be another trap? Like the Hot Springs or the Fishing Trip or Weasel Island of all things! At least the Ski Resort wasn't bad..."Thank you. I think I'll try my luck at Blackjack, I'm pretty good at it if I do say so myself. Maybe we could have a match at the table sometime.">He throws her a bone. Just to be polite at least. He noticed the command seals on her arm so she's clearly skilled. He usually hides his own, when you get enough challenges to duel it starts getting a tad annoying...>>77519158>A slime. His first thought is of Stelia unsurprisingly before shaking the thought away, for starters this one is blue and more like an octopus or squid. Clearly new to being on land, the curious type."Well welcome to the land. Its a bit different then being in the ocean. Less pressure for one." >He makes a pun to break the ice.>>77520999>He also gets the chance to see a familiar face, though without a certain blonde that is a frustrating as she is attractive. Although he prefers the minotaur's company, mainly because that poor bastard can use the breaks."Surprised to see you here! Finally taking a vacation like I've pestered you about before?"
>>77501474Three figures stand on the edge of the grounds. Their backs turned to the town, eyes forward — towards nothing in particular. Domi, standing in the center, is carrying two tote bags filled with miscellany. On either side of him, regal power poses look upon the field and those setting up, smoky quartz lenses in frames obscuring their eyes, oversized sunhats protecting them from the last vestiges of summer. “So,” the red-headed woman on the right begins, “What do we do now?” “That is a good question. Fjorwa, you were the one who made the reservations.” Domi continues looking straight ahead, maintaining his pose towering over the two — though they’re both a touch over six feet in height. “I… May have misread the invitations. It doesn’t start until tomorrow,” says the blonde, a bead of sweat dripping from her forehead. “Oh.” The red-headed woman slowly inhales, then exhales. She looks around, spying a tent over on the far edge, butting up to the forest some distance away. “Do you know what that is?” Fjorwa hurriedly moves to check the tote, pulling out a scroll and cross-referencing it…“I believe that’s the ‘Day Tent,’ Saithana.” She double checks it, once, twice, and then stows it back in the tote. “Shall we see what it holds?”[continued]
>>77523126“It’s lodging for those even more poorly inclined to the sun than we are — with a little vice. See how it’s only tourists going in? The locals are giving it a pretty wide berth.” Domi’s statement is followed by them turning to watch a group of pale, parasol-wielding fellows dressed in black and crimson go to the tent.“That’s what you meant.” Fjorwa gently grasps her pendant, mundane but well made, and then turns on her heel. “Let’s go explore the town while they get the rest set up.”“...I do kind of want to see what it’s like.” Saithana then sees something crawl out of the river, looking like the river itself, which then begins to tentacle-walk its way into the day tent. “I retract my statement.”“I know that slime, actually, though not particularly well. For now, let’s take to the town and we’ll come back here for the opening ceremony.” Domi waits for Saithana to begin turning and then does so himself, moving back into the city until the festivities begin proper.
>>77520999>Curiosity gets the better of her and she looks over the maid"I didn't know maids were that into gambling, or dealing, I thought that was more a butler thing""Then again, I... I'm not sure what the last maid was I saw, or when, think maybe aboard a ship departing nocturne""You're from there too right, since you're used to dealing with vampires?">>77522407>She looks ever so slightly disappointed at being told pearls are not viable currency"Ah I knew I should have just brought over the entire ship, but I wanted to travel light""Oh and don't worry, just the novelty of being allowed to sleep on a bed is great and really I'm fiiine, I can just ooze into the water table and get what I need from that if need be, or walk myself over to the river or so, I'll make sure to keep my surface tension high enough you won't even have that much cleanup""I'm a bit more solid than your average slime at times, since well you noticed these">Her tentacles all rise up and wave, one of them offering a handshake"Can't even properly tell them what to do, much less stop being tentacles anymore than I can stop the top half from being kinda elf-ish""For real though, careful with the 5th one overthere, she's doesn't really know what personal space is">and then proceeds to almost carelessly dump a few mostly solid gold coins in, of rather antiquated design>>77522764"Oh hi there, pressure is fine, I'm mostly still trying to get used to how much grass tickles, that and people staring""Though I kinda avoided most staring by not showing up here at full size, it's surprisingly hard to get people to believe you're friendly when you look like you're about to start eating ships""Kari's the name, and you are...?">She smiles expectantly>>77523139>A slightly more observant tentacle waves in greeting as the more oblivious Kari is kind of focused on checking everything out, it then looks about as exasperated as a tentacle can at Kari missing the trio
>>77522764>If Domitian checks on his room he'll find its actually rather nice for being in a tent. The wood frame bed large enough for one individual or one close couple. An adjustable lantern. A table and two chairs. And a trunk that appears to be melded to the ground. He can tie his door shut from the inside but if anyone was determined to get in they could just crawl under the walls without too much trouble, though doing so silently would be quite difficult.>The robot is already dealing cards to a few patrons. One hand sucks up the coins offered and the other spins out cards onto the table. His hands are too clunky to shuffle so there's a smaller machine nearby for that on the table. His voice is robotic but clear. Unlike the big kitchen behind the counter that Amu caught a glimpse of this one doesn't seem to be something Griddy fully built herself.>Blackjack pays out 3:2 so if one has the means it may be possible to outplay the machine.
>>77523727Correction, this post was responding to Amughar.>>77523711>Griddy takes the coins, along with everyone else's and shoves them into her pockets. Must be some sort of infinity bag sewn into her clothing because she really shouldn't have that much room.>She shakes the slime's tentacles and does find that her hand comes away cleaner than expected. Still. Best to give her the room with the slime resistant sheets. Once it got into linens it was almost impossible to get out."Don't hesitate to use our showers. I spent good money on the equipment to get it portable. You can even get hot water if you want it.""Do keep that fifth tentacle under control though. We would hate to have to evict you.">She's smiling but there is clearly some truth in her voice that she won't tolerate unlimited sexual harassment.
>>77522407"Understandable. A room is plenty good, then. Thank you.">Emily accepted the key without a further word. If she were disappointed by this fact, it showed in neither her tone nor her unchanging expression.>With a brief and slight bow, she simply turned and departed, leaving a small drawstring bag in her room before returning.>The bag itself would only be visible to Griddy as she turned to leave, staying comfortably on her back as she walked. But she was gone for just a brief couple minutes...>But, as she returned to see who else was around and let herself mingle a bit with others...>>77522764>Ah, this guy..."It is not my first. It will not be my last. I do not know if Lady Selene will be coming here as well, but I suspect not. Regardless, hello. I suppose it's no surprise to see you here.">Emily greeted Amughar with nothing but words, as he noticed her first.>>77523711"...?">This thing was...? Huh?>Some kind of slime tentacle beast?>Not any of the ones she knew, but..."I am, yes. And... Anybody confident in their dexterity can handle cards, regardless of male, female, or anything else. And it suits me more than directly playing. But, more importantly... may I ask how you even got here? Slimes require significant special care to travel, do they not? Even through a gate, I'm surprised that you wound up here of all places...">Emily was quite surprised to see anything like Kari here.>In the rivers and seas of Nocturne? Sure. Hell, there was a river not too far from here, too.>But after this girl had said she was from there herself, it became a surprise.>And she wanted to hear both why and how...
He knows.
>>77501474Its a bit of a trek up to the Lord's estate. The path to the manor was paved and well lit. For him the primary harvest was complete weeks ago, leaving him plenty of time to transform his land into something that could be house the many travelers. Four Trees was a fairly prosperous town these days but it simply didn't have the capacity to hold all these guests. Even with some residents opening their homes there were still hundreds who would need to rest under the stars.At the gates travelers met with a worn out Housecarl, waiting for the end of her shift. A few guards accompanied her, escorting guests around the outer estate. Plots could be rented. They were more expensive than an inn room but could house as many as you crammed into the space. Tents were available as well but they were expensive and starting to look a little shoddy as many of the best were already taken. Plots were close enough that the Estate's powerful [Tome Sweet Home] extended outward and offered a modest level of protection against intrusion. A few guards were patrolling the area as well. A few food stalls dotted the area as well selling both fresh harvest and cooked food for those arriving late with empty stomachs.One plot that stood out was located fairly close to the main path. A lavish and insulated yurt had been set up since midday. It took up enough space that some of the owners belongings spilled over into a second plot. Two hand carts filled with the pelts of mountain beast and several empties. A small fire is lit with a cauldron hung over the embers. A meaty stew both for the residents and any enticed visitors. The owners, a few Yuki-Onna are milling about both inside and out, preparing for the rest of the festival.
>>77503197Toy and tool alike, I see. Enchanté being extended does allow for a stronger degree of control — given it's by means of a function of the world rather than, say, a slave collar enchantment. Expendable tools could also end up in a two masters scenario, considering that enchanté aren't usually exclusive. Being forced into a double or triple agent scenario where every action leads to your own downfall definitely fits the vibe of Sognando thus far, though there is that slim chande of being able to claim your agency that makes such risky maneuvers possibly worth it.Nemo certainly doesn't seem like the worst option of what I could imagine. A conniving sort who provides some benefit to those at her beck and call can earn some loyalty beyond that which the empowered enchanté enforces. It certainly fits the dystopian cyber(sorcery)punk aesthetic as one of the more charismatic, sort of "good employer" role compared to the scores of bastards.Is there a sort of organization structure that predominates in the individual levels of Sognando's social hierarchy? Should we expect things more like "families" among the lowest echelons, with more impersonal organizations filling the highest levels of society?
>>77524327"Don't worry I I've got 2 others watching out for her, shouldn't get anywhere near that level">She smiles while one of her tentacles slaps another "I almost offered to help out with the showers out of force of habit but there's the whole field, actually might need the occasional shower to keep properly hydrated now""Definitely good thing I'm only showing up in normal size here, I don't quite think you've invested in whale showers""I could help out with your vampires if they need someone to feed off, but I've been told by them I'm the vegan option, which they don't particularly appreciate""But there's a lot of me out there so, send them my way if they're not finding anything">>77531185"Oh, how I got here? Kinda simple, I sorta swamp up river, then swamp up a smaller river, had a bit of an argument with a couple of beavers, bribed a local naiad to let me get through, got lost, turned around, swam up a different river, crawled out and walked through town, simple" "Big festival with Mastema's blessing on it, thought I'd check it out, and see what all the fuss is about inland, and I'm liking it, could do with a bit more rain but I'm sure I'm the only one who thinks so""Oooh right, you might have heard of me being present a lot further south well, I kinda swim really fast through the ocean, roam around south to north""I could show up it off but, there's not a big lake around anywhere close, also I don't want to be responsible for any more lake monster tales, 5 is enough""Sooo, what's got a maid like you here, aside from the gambling?"
All I know is that to me you look like lots of fun~Open up your lovin' arms!Watch out, here I come~!>77508424You are far too kind! Let us rock out sometime later, yeah? Meet me at Noisy Boi's, my treat~>77508685That's what I was thinking! Glad to know I wasn't the only one who jumped to such conclusions.>77535865I don't want so spoil the overarching mechanics yet but yes it is equivalent to a world mechanism and not a physical item. That doesn't stop certain individuals from trying to replicate it but their efforts are always foiled.I've already thought of multi-master scenarios! It takes an immense amount of willpower to be a true multiagent as the Sognando Enchanté's tend to play on emotion; being that if you're given orders that align with your own subconscious ideals you will find them much harder to resist. Potentially awkward but also a great way to learn more about yourself. Sognando's modified Enchantés don't override or modify existing ones from an outsider entering the domain.Nemo is certainly the lesser devil but a devil nonetheless. In a way she treats her subjects like her hobbies in that there's always room for improvement; and if you express a similar mentality or ethic while proving it then you can expect to be treated very well. Just don't try to romance her unless you can convince René to not kill you.>Sognando social HierarchyYou have a good head! Yes, such groups exist high and low lending towards a "who you know" structure working symbiotically with ones own personal power. Power doesn't need to be pure strength; as an example trying to appeal to the Black Sail's without any magical aptitude won't go well but may prove useful to the Shadowhands.
>>77537577I would assume that the means are more than just a little bit of a secret, but I'll keep my hypothesizing to myself in the interest of not accidentally spoiling things.There is a much more subjective bent to it, then, in how a given person responds to orders in the multi-master scenario? The master that is more capable in presenting and manipulating the pawn is more likely to keep them in their thrall than an aparhetic one, if I'm interpreting this right. Would that be a means for one to try to steal the enchantéed from another? perhaps even a devil's bargain to escape from beneath the thumb of one initiated by the pawn in question? Though, a subconscious desire to be dominated coldly could certainly put a wrench in such plans...Would you say she treats them like investments, to that end? Shaping them into certain roles, and those that take to the process are naturally treared better as they are shaped mentally (and physically, given Nemo's capabilities...) by her? Romantic inclinations bringing a swift demise is within the general lines one would expect of the genre.>You have a good head!So I'm told.~That makes sense, especially on the low end. Security in numbers and unity towards a shared goal — even something as simple as money — can allow them to not be entirely crushed under the weight of the larger players. Such a system, if relying heavily on a who-you-know structure of advancement, could certainly add some occasional strife and upheaval that could in turn cause even more excitement; I imagine the occasional element of nepotism cascading into failures that lead to not only ruin for the person responsible, but also a destabilization of that given organization. I don't expect that to be as common with long-lived or immortal elements, but I would gather that it's a possibility.
>>77536807
>>77537228>Emily made a show of tilting her head. Not so much to show confusion, but that she was thinking about what Kari was saying, even with her ever-unchanging expression.>She got across the continent just through rivers? That was confusion-worthy, probably. But not worth making a point of.>After all, a slime in water can go incredibly far, incredibly quickly if they want."This is a break, for me. As you just said, a festival. With Mastema's blessing. It seemed worth checking out. Gambling is simply a sideshow, or perhaps a hobby. But, it is a time for me to relax without Milady around. I've got her blessing to attend, and I somewhat doubt she'd follow me here, even in secret...">After all, the lady in question was, perhaps, the most neglectful "chosen" in the history of the continent.>And her associated Arbiter was the one who's name was on this festival.>But if she wanted to show up, that was still her own prerogative, in the end...
>>77538245>The master that is more capable...>asset theft>subconscious desire;)A reward to the attentive and wise.A detriment to those without a proactive mindset.Do you fear the master who cares not for your safety and wellbeing or the one who knows every shadow of your mind?>NemoThat is a strong motivation to stay within Nemo's service; she not only has the capacity but the ability to turn you into an ideal. It is however up to (YOU) to determine if you're okay with that. Especially given her proficiencies. Would you give up a portion of yourself for a sea of power?>romantic inclinationsI'm not saying it's impossible but you have to convince a Yandere Bouncer to let you into the club.>advancement>excitementI already dropped the core driving force of Sognando so I'll merely say you're on the right path~Now to address some personal matters!I saw that fucking picDon't worry; I'll ask for it once I'm ready~
>>77531185Griddy wouldn't see the exposed bag until she made her rounds later. She was busy with customers. She would also know better than to touch it. Tenny on the other hand might not have the restraint.>To be more clear about the layout and accomidations, next to the main counter is a tent flap that leads into the 'Hotel' portion of the tent. Instead of bare floors large rugs are laid on the ground. The hallway is a long arc though half the tent with a sitting area in the middle. >Chambers split off to the sides, the majority are guest rooms though some seem to be more focused for meetings or private entertainment. At least one has a non-structual free-rotating pole mounted in the center. >There are also shared bathroom and shower facilities. Bubbling water basins are out in the open for guest use and two small chambers for showering and two private toilets are available as well.>While its not heavily magically protected the outer walls are quite difficult to shift and someone is always watching the entry flaps. If anything is a concern its probably your neighbors who only have a much lighter woven cotton walls between them.>Aside from Griddy there is also the Tengu Tenny working frantically serving hot meals and dispensing games for rent. The card dealing LOCKR is dispensing cards and coins for gamblers while occasionally letting out a small vent of steam. There also appear to be a few guards in the room but its hard to determine if they're with Griddy or part of the local enforcement.>Aside from employees there are plenty of others. A majority of them of paler persuasions.
>>77537228>>77537228>Griddy isn't able to follow most of what Kari is babbling about. She's not sure if its because she's a slime, an elf, or maybe she's just isolated."I think we're good. We brought quite a few vials of concentrated blood along with us to keep our customers sated and I'd be losing out if they drank from you. Can't exactly confirm that its safe either.">She seems a little suspicious about the offer of free blood from a strange slime.
>>77539707A series of questions that will have to be answered by each character in time. Some may prefer the known and clinical operations where their role is clear; others may crave the satisfaction of being a loyal pet for their master. The promises Nemo can provide fall in much the same way. To what degree is an identity independent when she holds a means to sway every element? How long can one's fortitude last? Is resistance the right choice, or does the promise of reward for acquiescence outweigh their preservation of self?I can't wait to explore the answers.>Yandere BouncerSome things are best left undisturbed. Should there evolve some pressing need to that end, an... Aggessive gate to such can keep those who confuse the intimacy of body modification with that of romance.>Right path(^:I was merely answering the horny picture with horny promises.~Patience is a virtue I hold dear.We await warmly.(Typos corrected—seppuku avoided.)
>>77537577Since Nemo is the lesser devil, what would you say are the greater devilsas in, if you do end up in a worst case scenario how bad can it get?since there's a lot of cyberpunk inspiration I'd imagine becoming part of some sociopathic magical researcher's test subjects would be a fate to avoid, that or just becoming part of spare parts
>>77501474>>77535374After exiting the Rift Gate and making her way towards the Lord's Estate, Bene, contrary to what one would expect, has a very-clearly irked expression, even as she leads a certain Kobold by the hand."I STILL can't believe I wasn't given an employee's discount, despite being one of Mastema's Chosen! The teleport fee is too expensive and my abilities are forcefully handicapped! Ugh! I'll really be mad if the plots are pricey even if I head that they're comparable to the inns' rates...!"With her huffing rant finished, a refreshingly-cool breeze blows past immediately following. She sighs."Whatever... C'mon, Charlie, let's try picking up the pace. The line doesn't start here and it'd be nice if we could secure our spot somewhere closer to the action. Don't you agree~?"
>>77501474>>77543953>>77543953>Charlie just looks on in amusement and floats along as he's pulled forth by Bene. It was rare to see her this worked up over something, and as impious as he was he was quite enjoying it. He was pretty sure she'd gotten scammed while he had been handling business elsewhere, having already paid for their trip by the time he returned. But it's not like they were strapped for cash, so he let it slide just to savor her huffing and puffing."I'm hovering as fast as I can Babe. You know how fast I can go when I have my lightening magic, but with this whole area being level locked my land mobility is a bit limited. It might be faster for you to just carry me.~">There was a tone to his voice that said that he could probably keep up even with the nerf, but they were on vacation and some pda and skinship wouldn't hurt.
>>77501455>>77535374>Whisper stands and stretches after finishing driving the last tent stake into the ground.>He and Alice had elected to rent a space in the fields, close to the festivities, where they could set up their own tent.>This space afforded them the protection of the [Tome Sweet Tome], and ensured that they had only a very short walk to the fairgrounds.*Alright, everything is set.*>Whisper bends down to pet the dozen or so squirrels and other rodents that had been helping him set up the tent.*Okay, have fun everyone, but remember, no funny business! We're only guests here.*>The rodents all nod in unison before breaking off in a scurry towards the fair grounds.>Whisper then takes Alice's hand.*Well then. Shall we see what this festival has to offer? Are you more looking forward to whatever sweets they'll have or the games?*
>>77501474((This looks like fun! Hoping to have an excuse to draw a couple more doodles as well! Might actually have some free time again!))Harvest festivals were always such exciting opportunities, but for Sol, the main attraction would always be the food. Mouth practically watering as his Riftgate license glowed, he finally got his turn to step through the breach. The moth boy had heard of Four Trees before, but never had the chance to visit. Obsessed with his own trade and work with the church, it was only his recent arrival to the guild that got him out of Aria for the first real time. And now, he certainly wasn’t going to pass up an opportunity such as this. As the swirling vortex of the Riftgate gave way to the view of the grounds, Sol took a deep breath in. Something certainly felt… different, as though a weight was pushing down on his demon core. So something was suppressing Arka greatly here. Pouting, he stepped forward with others in the growing collection of individuals, thankful he rented a room in the inn a good time ago. It took a good chunk out of his personal funds, but it would absolutely be worth the expense! Attracting curious looks from the guards as he approached, Sol allowed them to search him for any restricted items. Wearing only a loose shirt and pants under a poncho to block the autumn air, it was not a prolonged procedure. A couple pouches of coins and a waterskin were around his belt as well; he had discovered once before that if he carried EVERYTHING in hammerspace, the lack of any personal effects was often viewed as suspicious. Sol was pleased when the guard’s were more professional than curious and he quickly asked directions to the inn. Upon stepping away from the checkpoint, Sol cast his eyes around the area, half hoping to see a familiar face before he started walking to the inn.
>>77501455>>77535374>>77545070>Alice laughs for a moment"You saw them setting up, doubt there's going to be too much going on unless you want to help?""As for me, I'll watch, just because I'm actually capable of lifting a box doesn't mean I'm going to">She squeezes Whisper's hand back"Might as well go humie for the entire thing, still goh, feels weird being this slow again, going to be a lot harder to cheat at the fair games now""Anyways, wanna take a look around the camp site and see who else is here, maybe take a stroll through town, we can watch what they're doing while we're at it, who knows, maybe someone's already selling sweets or so">Pointing at something she whistles"That yurt overthere, looks impressive, no horses though so I doubt someone brought Genghis Khan over, but should be someone important, wanna go take closer look at how the upper class lives?""Would be fun to see how sneaky I can get like this...">There's a bit of a mischievous twinkle in her eyes
>>77539698"Oh so it's just your day off, and you're having fun? Neat, any other maids or maid adjacent people you know here?""Gambling is fun, I kinda am not really good at it, especially poker, I have absolutely no pokerface">True to her word, her antenna on top of her head are practically broadcasting her emotions"But the thrill of it is still fun no?""Stillll, who wouldn't want to be part of a mastema sponsored event like this? It's all just good fun, great fun at that... speaking of, where were those gambling tables again?">>77540075"It's safe I promise, pinkie promise">She smiles noticing the suspicion "oh right here I am offering myself as a bloodbag, seeming like a weirdo, well more than usual, I'm kinda aware the tentacles are weirding out people, which is why I'm renting a room here and... losing track of things""Offer is mostly cuz, you know to keep vampires down on their luck and money from going after townfolk, and don't worry about your blood vial business, I'll keep my own fluids intentionally as bland as possible, last resort vampire version of oatmeal" "Aaany case, since I'm assuming most people are staying somewhere else, where is that? Oh and where's the gambling tents, maybe people are willing to gamble for pearls or, wait what do you gamble with here?">>77541060"Been there, done that"
>>77543953>>77545040>The path was well lit enough. A few food stands here and there. Some fresh vegetables or fruit, others selling cooked food for those too tired or unskilled to cook for themselves.>When they finally reach the main gate the guards seem a little on edge between Bene's expression and monstrous traits. At least the Housecarl in charge seems to be remaining professional or maybe just exhausted. She looks the pair over and draws out her ledger."We have plenty of plots left still. Though the ones by the main road are all taken. Its 40 marks per night. 100 if you need to rent tents and bedding. Do you have a preference on location? How many nights will you be staying?"
>>77540041>Even if somebody, whether affiliated with the place or a visitor, had decided to mess with the bag, they'd find it filled with valueless trinkets. A simple wooden bird, a half-dozen copper coins, a strip of fabric, and a tiny, sealed glass jar containing an unidentified, but aromatic spice.>Almost as if saying "Help yourself, if you desire." despite none of it being worth anything.>Meanwhile, the rest of the facilities were something that Emily took note of while dropping her simple bag in her room, but that she would be more inclined to check out when closer to ready to retire for the night.>For now, she was far more content to let things be and see what the day brought. The night was sure to be the main event for the festival, but despite being in the vampire tents, Emily was not going to sleep the day away like many of them. Or sleep much at all.>>77545927"None. I'm here alone. And, if I decide my usual uniform is inappropriate, I have alternatives.">At that word, Emily's outfit shimmers and shifts in full view of Kari, very briefly becoming a full-on black gothloli ensemble with a large number of frills and a full bonnet before returning to her standard maid fare.>The magic of [Transmog] at work, obviously.>But, if she saw fit, she was more than capable of using it..."If you wish to gamble though, I do recommend something like blackjack instead, where bluffing is less important. The old marionette over there is the one in charge of it. Though, if you would like to play directly against other players, I'll have you know that I've been told that my face is entirely unreadable.">Emily made no comment on whether she actually intended to play and gamble herself.>She knew as well as anybody else (that knew her, at least) that her emotionless nature was, in fact, borderline cheating at games of deception and bluffing>But she didn't care, and was happy to exploit it, much to Selene's frustration, when she did play.
>>77545040In an instant, Bene pulls Charlie into what seems to be a hug at first, until the diminutive Dragonkin is placed upon her right shoulder. He has a great view of her tail, passerby, and all else that is behind them."I like it! It's efficient!"Slithering into gear, she ups her pace, kicking up dust in the process and acquiring a fierce look of determination that replaces her discontent now that she has a short-term goal to reach.>>77546299And so she reaches it: the main gate!The looks that the personnel were giving her was something that she was used to. The elapid meets the woman-in-charge's gaze with a look of satisfaction—at least until the details and questions start rolling in. Bene plucks Charlie off of her shoulder and spins him around.>>77545040"I-I think you have a better idea of what we have planned than I do, darling."However obvious her lack of planning is, the last thing she wants to do is to admit such while in front of a stranger.
>>77546501>Charlie balances himself as he rides on Bene's shoulder. He holds on tight as she speeds up, not used to his stats being lowered. He doesn't resist when Bene pulls him off and holds him in front to speak to the housecarl. His feet dangle down as she holds him up to eye level.>>77546299"Mark us down for the whole time. No need for the supplies, we've got our own from adventuring. As for location, right next to moving water would be preferred even if it's just a creek.">While he didn't mean for it to be, Charlie's smug aura is palpable as he's held comfortably in Bene's arms. The silly bane just does that. To any bitter singles they passed he probably came off as the type to obliviously flaunt their relationship, which to be fair isn't entirely inaccurate.
>>77546501>>77547342>She shakes her head fighting to stay polite. She almost wanted to punt the small creature. Between the way he talked, his smug expression and the way he hung off the larger monster posing like an erotic dancer.>She took their coins and pointed them off to the right, parallel to the way they came from."All the plots really close to the stream have been taken but plot 20 is fairly close. I just need your name.">Seemed she was asking Charlie, maybe she thought he was in charge. Once she gets a name to log down she waves them along.>>77501474>When they turn they notice an old Marionette looming behind them who quickly turns in the other direction. She seems to resemble a machine much more than most modern constructs. She may have been following them for quite some time, she's difficult to get a read on.>Bene and Charlie's plot is nothing special. Its about a minute's walk from the stream further down the path. Perfect place to set up a tent.
{Whisper, Four Trees}>>77535374>>77545553*Hey now, I know that look. Let's not try to get kicked out before the festivities have even started.**Also, if we get arrested, the squirrels will need to free us and you know how they tend to go a little overboard sometimes.*>Whisper walks beside Alice as they meander over towards the Yurt. Perhaps they will run into Yulia.
>>77547342>>77547654Bene's gaze rapidly shifts between Charlie and the Housecarl before settling on the Housecarl when she asks for, what she assumes, is both of their names. Eager to take the initiative, she pipes up without hesitation."I am Benefactum and this is Charlie!"Still holding Charlie, she sticks out her arm to deposit the appropriate and accurate coinage's worth in gold, thanks to her [Wisdom Incarnate]'s quick calculations."Thank you~"She gives an appreciative smile to the woman, but that, too, is tinged by her [Resting Smug Face] like her Kobold companion.Her grin falters upon turning around and seeing the peculiar Marionette. Smelling a potential opportunity, Bene slithers towards the stranger, calling out to her."Excuse me! Did you want to talk?"Unfortunately for her Dragonkin paramour, he was back on her shoulder.
>>77545927>Griddy rubs her forehead with her hand, pushing her hair back."Yeah sure... I'm sure pinkie promises go real far when I've got a vampire blue in the face choking on slime.">She's starting to get a little indignant, with how accommodating this slime girl is it IS weird. Is she even a slime? Griddy doesn't see a core. Maybe Kari is a weird elemental."Look if any regular vamp has to go hungry a few days its not gonna kill them and any Lord probably brought their own blood.""Now, you have your room, you want food we have that too. If you want to gamble there's LOCKR or just find anyone playing a card game or wander yourself to town and see if you can find a gambling den. Or someone who buys pearls.""Maybe. And I mean maybe! If things slow down a bit I'll grab a board game. We can gamble seals if you don't have any Nocturne or Encore gold."
>>77548164>The marionette slowly turns. Her stance wide and defensive yet maintains some elegance. Her eye flicks from red, to green, to blue, and back to green. The eye flicks not only directly to Bene and Charlie but the space behind them.>If either attempts to scan the Marionette's [Status] it comes up completely blank."No."
>>77548616Bene pauses, the metaphorical gears grinding in her head. Conjecture can come later; it's better to ask first and decide afterwards."How long have you been watching me and Charlie, why were you following us, and who do you work for?"Her tone comes off as more inquisitive than anything else, though whether the Marionette will look past her smug countenance remains to be seen.
>>77548691>Its just as difficult to read the expression of these old Marionettes as it is with Emily.>She doesn't even appear to have a mouth moving behind her face wrap."15 minutes, since you entered the campgrounds.""You are Earth Origin and were behaving erratically. A large number of Mushi were following you. I cleared them away. You seemed potentially dangerous.">The two do remember a fairly bright flash and a sound like a firecracker earlier. While the Marionette was behind them she hadn't drawn much attention to herself."I serve Lord Wilkins at the manor there.">She raises a hand to indicate the large manor that presides over the town. She begins to turn again, already ready to leave.
