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 (FullRes)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.>TQWhere will you spend the summer?>Themehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSlMSSnUuwc==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.>Othrysian ReclamationA soldier from Othrysia calls for aid to reclaim the city from a dark sorcerer!>Four Trees Harvest FestivalFour Trees is hosting its annual Harvest Festival and all are invited. Stats are lowered due to a protective charm for those looking for a more mundane adventure.>FermataBeyond the Riftgate, a destination in the veiled sands of the Wilds has connected once more with the world: Fermata...
https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80138350/#80396965https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80138350/#80397046https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80138350/#80397073https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80138350/#80397109https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80138350/#80397135https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80138350/#80397135Venice-Anon posts from last thread! Replies below:>Rynnhttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80489133/#80492564>Emilyhttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80489133/#80496297>Solhttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80509837/#q80516098>Alicehttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80509837/#q80592859>Whisperhttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80509837/#q80661120>Benehttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80509837/#q80697108And the following:https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80509837/#80526191https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80509837/#80526239https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/80509837/#80539730
>Benehttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82601009>Domihttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82600140>Rynnhttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82588240>Alicehttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82542388>Latest GM replieshttps://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82599146https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82579448https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82578675
>>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#82579448“Food does sound good before we turn in. And monster meat? Meat on my bones one way or another, eh? Our next stop does seem pretty obvious.” The moth chuckles before bowing, and agreeing with Rynn while returning his notebook to hammerspace. “And thank you for the offer of lodging, but Rynn is correct. We will want to convene with our guildmates before the night is done.”Turning to depart and spreading his wings, Sol waved back over his shoulder. “But I am happy that the current threat seems minimal. Here’s to a bright day tomorrow under Zazu’s spotlight!”>>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#82588240“You know, I’m not as fragile as I look.” Sol smirks at his draconic guildmate. Taking to the early night air, Sol’s wings give off a light glow, reminiscent of the just-set sun. “So, how much food should we grab for the others? Or have those who want meet us there?” As he starts to fly, he begins to speak mostly to himself. “Though I wonder, what kind of monster meat do you think they have? And how did they prepare it?!”
Man, is this general dead too ? I remember it git quite the traffic once.
>>82619107it's reasonably alive, new thread was just made after old one fell off due to bump limit
up again
>>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#82542388 (Alice)>>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82529391 (Fermata GM)>Whisper blushes slightly at Alice's kiss.>After spotting the monk, Whisper orders a drink to be sent over to him as well before going back to creating quite a few questions as illusory script in the air.Do these sandsharks hunt in packs?How do they sense their prey?Is it the males, females, or both who hunt?Do they lay eggs or give live births?How do they care for their young?>Whisper is writing furiously into a leatherbound notebook before he realizes that he might be starting to get into questions that the hunters might not care about.>Eventually changing the subject he decides to learn more about the hunters themselves.So, how long has your group been hunters and what's the furthest you've been out from the city?
>Thumper listens carefully to Noli's explanations, interjecting occasionally to give more information on his own situation."I've seen other beast-like races where I'm from who also go into heat. The best way I can explain my condition is that my urges at baseline are similar to when those other races are in heat. It has taken a lot of meditation and concentration not to immediately act on it all the time. Fortunately, for the times that I have, I do have some control over my own fertility.""However, I cam also sometimes go into heat, during which there's not much I can do to stop myself. I don't even trust that I'll be able to tone down my fertility when it happens, so having some way to block fertility at all times would be nice.">At this point, you'd think that Thumper wouldn't be able to get any redder, but the topic of masturbation turns his face into a ripe tomato."Um... I *do* masturbate. I don't really have a choice.">As Thumper looks down at the water, it becomes apparent, now that the bubbles have all but disappeared, that Thumper's testicles have swollen to enlarged globes."If I don't relieve myself pretty regularly, they get quite heavy and awkward, making it difficult to move efficiently. I haven't gotten a chance to get away to somewhere private since I've gotten to Fermata so it's something I'll have to deal with pretty soon. It just seems to do little to curb the urges. Sometimes it makes the urges worse."
>>82625980Girl knows what she's about
>82438272 (Fermata Library)>Riga could use a servant like this pixie, hitting things she doesnt like with literal warnings.>She noted how Vulture Rock would be the most likely spot to find other undead given it's rules- but the fact the desert had superstitious rules made her scour the library for books on the desert's customs itself, it's mythical dos and donts. Her Guard was silently reading lesbian romance novella while keeping an eye on her master. Once they were done, they set out once more, asking the Pixie to guide them to the Temple of Lahash. Not that Riga couldnt find the place, but she wanted to make sure that her beloved's temple was without flaw. Too often the grand whore Onoskelis gets the best digs and she hates that!
10 up
>>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#82542388 (Alice)>>82623537"I'm Stabo, this is Threnu, and I already pointed at Rohu.">The man introduces himself and his teammates. Then Alice's statement about the sharks incites some confusion."Huh? What do you mean? They're sharks. Not that we'd have any context on what a shark is other than them. We just know that they're called that thanks to identification magic. If the gods say that they're sharks, who are we to argue?">Well that answers that. Some form of [Status] must exist as a spell here, and that's where they got the name from rather than this being an issue with the translation."They've got cartilage. You're right on both counts when it comes to how they swim through the ground. They're pure muscle, and also have a natural earth manipulation effect. Not something they can directly control, more like they're born with arka runes inscribed on their body. I heard that their patterns were one of the inspirations for those magic tattoos you can get.">The waitress informs them that their tortilla order is ready back at their table, but the hunters still have plenty of information about the sand sharks."I do actually know all of that. Some of the researchers for the Dungeon Archives really care about documenting every little detail. They'll go after smaller prey alone, but work together for larger prey above ground. They sense with echolocation, hearing things like hollows in the earth, burrowing creatures, and footsteps. All of them hunt, even the babies. They give live birth, but do so in a section of the desert called the Sand Sea composed of runny sands that are almost like water. The young ones aren't strong enough to venture into tougher terrain, but can feed themselves just fine there. Once they grow, they'll move out until it's time for the females to return to have their children."(Continued next post.)
>>82632793>He was happy to keep talking about himself."About a hundred years or so. It pays well, and it's interesting work. Not usually life threatening levels of interesting. This run in with the sand sharks was the closest call we've had in a long time. We don't stray too far from the city. Second outpost at most. We've been to the third as part of a larger force, but we aren't going that far with just us."
>>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82601009 (Bene)"That's like how Fermata was in the beginning. The fairies were the original inhabitants, but before the city it was also a place of refuge for the nomadic elves. Settlers looking for stability aren't going to want a nomadic lifestyle though. You said most, not all, so you must have a way for people to live there permanently. That would be a good area to improve on.">>82625169"Your situation is an extreme one. It sounds like you'd do just as well as a monster in the hunt instead of the prey. If your body responds well to drugs, we may be able to handle it on the day to day with the arousal dampeners. Self control over your fertility is a good sign, but you may want to get a fertility blocking tattoo as well. They're popular as an alternative to the medical option.">Normally Noli would be complimenting Thumper on the strength and attractiveness of his powerful balls, but that would be inappropriate when they were causing him trouble."I can see how that would be distressing. That throws out the regimented masturbation plan. If masturbation isn't effective, and is sometimes detrimental, we'll have to come up with something else. I'll see about getting you some dampeners to try, but for the more immediate issue...">She gestures at his nuts."How would you feel about having some assistance with that? I can arrange for a courtesan or two to help empty them. If you're worried about losing control, they can sedate or restrain you before doing so. We could also have them take some measurements of your size afterwards and in the morning, just to get an idea of what we're working with."
10 again
>>82636700Bene hums, musing in thought."So that's how Fermata started... But yes, I do have permanent settlements in Tihr. The coast is an excellent source of food, even with most of the ocean being frozen over. It's not usually a problem when you can simply breach the ice, breathe underwater, and stay warm.">>82625169>>82636700She, foolishly, follows Thumper's gaze and gawks at the size of what lies below the water."They're huge!"Her hands then immediately move to cover her mouth after the exclamation. The melusine appears embarrassed at her own remark, averting her gaze out of shame."S-sorry... I, um, I think you should see to someone about that. I have libido suppressants, they're just not the most effective. Would you like one anyways, Thumper?"
>>82629068>The most basic book she could find on the desert was titled "The Desert: For Dummies," and painted a very different picture than mere superstition. The first page went like this. "The most important thing to remember about the desert may be common knowledge, but forgetting it leads to death. The desert is a dungeon. Yes everyone knows that, but it's dangerous to become too comfortable with this knowledge." An excerpt from later on giving tips to help keep the reader alive was "Do not leave the city unprepared. Once you're so far from the walls, you cannot return. Even if you turn back the way you came, it will not lead back to the city. Only from the Ranger Outposts can you chart a course back to Fermata, and to reach the first of those you'll have to meet certain conditions. Most commonly it will be challenging one of desert's bosses, but there are other possibilities to found as well.">The book describes the desert as a constantly changing place, where the landmarks are shuffled every time you enter. Navigation is a dungeon puzzle solved not just by reading the stars, but by understanding the desert's patterns and making choices that subtly modify your odds of reaching your destination. Not just decisions with your route, but even things such as the make up of your expedition or even the equipment you brought. For example, one of the desert's bosses is noted as having a higher chance of appearing for each foxkin, especially female foxkin, in the party. Another point that it tries to drill home is that you're on your own. It says that it is possible, but extremely unlikely to encounter another expedition. Rescue parties aren't a thing outside of specific events or dungeons that allow for it.(Continued next post.)
>>82641038>All of their research was showing that the desert was an esoteric, labyrinthine mega-dungeon. Finishing up at the library for now and asking the pixie to guide them, he doesn't know who they're talking about."Sorry, no Lahash here. Never heard of them. We've got temples to Amatsme the Keeper of Moments, Instructor Zazu, Mother Relahah, Cra the Arch-Reaper, Slinoskoe the Peacemaker, and Shalah the Enduring."
>>82641063"No Lahash are you-">A muffled voice was heard being riga's under her heavy guise.>Artaud quickly picking up the pieces"Your Sanctness it is fine, the arbiters love is often rearranged into different words and symbols. Shalah appears to be Fermata's rendition of her grace and we would be happy to see her desciples">Riga did note how some members of the guild would effectively face their own curtailed boss- perhaps the desert sand sensed itself. And luckily for fermata this """encore'"" diplomats were far far more moderate than the actual. The actual who definitely would not stand for backwards cities blaspheming the arbiters with cutesy anagrams
Bump time
>>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82588240>>82617746>Tregan gives them directions and describes the appearance of the pub. It's easily spotted from above. Now that they were looking, quite a few building in the city had been notable from above. Probably for the pixies they've seen flitting about. Heading in, the waitress greets them and tells them about the current special like she did for the others. (https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#82409340)>Alice, Whisper, and Amu were already here. How coincidental that Rynn and Sol would run into them again so soon. The animal lovers seemed to be getting the rundown on the sand sharks the place was serving tonight. (>>82632793)
>>82617746"Eh, we didn't really set up a way to reach each other besides sending up a flare, and there's no reason to be bugging the whole city with that now that things have calmed down again. The others can handle their own food this time.">They fly much slower this time compared to their rapid flight from earlier, though Meru still makes an air current in the direction they're heading to speed them up a little. Rynn makes sure to send away her halo so she doesn't end up with people kneeling around her again.>>82662270>It doesn't take long to find their destination and they land in the closest open space to the entrance, quickly heading inside."Sand shark? Sounds interesting! We'll take two orders of the grilled steaks and, hm, six of the skewers." "Tortillas please." "Oh, and get her an order of the tortillas too. And we'll both have the honey mead with it.">Rynn's height lets her see over the heads of most of the patrons, spotting some of their companions already here at a table. She tries to find a table near enough to theirs to join in their conversation if it sounds interesting.
10 begone
>>82662610>The drinks come out quick. Sweet and smooth, it's obvious why this is a Fermatan favorite. Honey mead is excellent at quenching the thirsts of the desert city.>Next comes the food. Both the steaks and the skewers come with a citrus marinade. The meat is dense, chewy in a good way. It's so juicy that every bite seems to squeeze out more flavor. The steak plates were served with roasted corn on the cob and mashed potatoes. The skewers of course came with the promised peppers. They had a kick, but it might not have been that hot to a dragon's palate. The shark meat stir fry and tortillas looked and tasted just as great as the rest. Notably, provided with the tortillas was a small bowl of green, chunky cream that looked suspiciously like guacamole. Trying it would confirm that it was indeed the guac.>>82632793(Forgot to mention it before, but yes Whisper's group also got guac with their tortilla order.)
>>82623537>>82632793>Alice laughs a bit at the obvious answer"Fair enough, kind of hard to argue with arbiters on naming the critters they quite literally created">She does quietly wonder, if the city had it's own version of [Status] as a reasonably common ability, how many people by now her boosted [Aura Veil] had tripped up by now, at least they had some music to listen to"And the source of their control is markings? Fascinating, almost want to see them up close, you know, when I ignore literally every single very good reason you just highlighted as to why that's an incredibly poor idea" "I mean, I'm not even a snack to the bigger ones but perfect size for the smaller ones to practice hunting techniques on""Really does make me curious about what else is out there, and what's at the basis of the entire food web...">>82632806>Her eyes grow wide for a moment"Hundred years? And in a place this dangerous? I can only imagine just how many stories you've got to tell""But you do say that there is a further outpost you don't venture to without a larger group, but someone has to maintain it somewhat right? Are there people that travel that far on the regular?">>82662610>>82617746>Just as Rynn's height makes it easy for her to spot people, it makes her stand out in turn a fair bit, so her seating herself at the table nearby is met with a friendly wave that's made a fair bit more obvious due to what looks like a curious bit of atmospheric lensing concentrated entirely around a certain pixie >However she'll wait a bit for Whisper to take the word, not to ruin the surprise
10 go away
>>82688348
And again
>>82617683>Where will you spend the summer?Travel will be required given my itinerary is tightly packed this year. I am to oversee the preparations for irregular training and thus Min for a few weeks early on; I am to attend meetings with a few of the Elfin tribes along the Adagio coast; a series of trade negotiations are up for renewal as well that I will be assisting with in Arka Numidia; the Sinfonia Fishing Camp and Resort will be formally opening just a week before the Midsummer; thereafter I will again be back in Min, Iszrine this time, for the actual Madtsurmir due to my responsibilities of position; there is a brief week where I may take care of the miscellaneous duties that have piled up; I am obligated to provide some special lectures at the Advanced Studies Institute in Aria in the weeks beginning the third month; I will be in Greyweul a few days upon my return from Aria after a personal invite to a wedding; I have a request from a smaller set of tribes in Largo to act as a mediator that shouldn't take me more than a week; and I'll be ending my summer by taking care of some policy development and executive function once more in Min.
>>82662270>>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#82409340>>82662610Shuffling into the crowded pub behind the dragon ladies, using magic to keep his head above water, Sol cast an awed look around the celebratory hall. Games and song filling the air had the smith quite excited; and only more so when the barmaid offers the group find a table, Sol doubles Rynn’s own order for himself and joins her at the table she finds. But instead of looking for his companions, the easily distractible moth’s attentions were darting from patron to patron, chasing sounds of merriment and hints of high stakes in his periphery.>>82680036Focus snapping back to the table upon the arrival of drink, Sol eagerly extended a hand to the mead and took a long draught. With a smiling exhale he grinned at the taller Rynn. “Ahh! That’s good after an afternoon and evening in the heat! So! Do you see them yet?” But before he could get an answer, the plates laden high with shark and sides arrived, taking up a great deal of space upon the table. Eyes wide and mouth drooling, the smaller Sol would certainly be undaunted by the [Man Portions] before him. Glistening with the seared marinade, the steaks appeared to glow in the flickering light of the pub. Hardly able to stand by, Sol immediately dug in. Tearing between steak, side, and sips, the voraciousness of the small moth smith could at least make him appear as a chosen of Uzza in one way. Between breaths, Sol uttered only a few words to his two guildmates, “So. What do- you think- about us getting-“ Nearly choking, Sol quickly quaffed the remainder of his first mug of mead and slammed it down on the table. “Involved?”
>>82696057Imagine being that naive, couldn't be me!
>>82640048>>82636700"Thank you for the offer Bene and Noli, but I've tried libido suppressants in the past and they don't really do much for me. An elder monk once told me that some 'banes' or 'curses' are too powerful to be suppressed or removed. He suggested that perhaps some of my affliction is due to something like that: some sort of divine adjustment to my very nature made upon my birth.""That seemed ridiculous to me at first, but it might explain some other peculiarities that I've noticed. For instance, every time I enter a dungeon, even one that's been documented as normal, it takes on more of a lewd theme. Also, I can't touch weapons. When I do, they instantly turn into lewd objects instead. That's part of the reason why I trained to use my fists and feet in combat instead.">>82636700>Thumper appears conflicted, thinking over Noli's offer of help. It takes a few moments before he seems to reach a decision."I will gladly accept the offer of assistance. Sedatives might be a bit risky. I'd prefer to stay clear headed. However, I'm okay with being restrained. Are you sure your people are okay with this? It somehow seems strange asking others to do this for me. Is there anything more I can do in return?">His voice sounds hesitant, but with the bubbles gone, it's pretty clear that his body is reacting to the thought of Noli's proposal.
>>82632793>>82686503Fascinating! I'm excited to see some of this myself. We're adventurers back where we're from and though the ecosystem looks quite different, the Wilds is riddled with dangerous monsters.Alice and I have made it one of our lives' goals to see and document as much of this world and its nature as we can.>Whisper takes another bite of one of his meat and veggie filled tortillas, with an extra helping of guacamole, before washing it down with a swig of mead.Does this place have rooms for rent or do you have any recommendations on nearby inns? We're hoping to get some rest tonight before heading out in the morning. There's so much to see here!>>82686503>>82662610>>82617746>Spotting Sol and Rynn, at a table very close by, he leans towards them and reaches over to touch their arms as well as Alice.*Sol! Rynn! I'm glad you found us! How did things go? This guac is incredible!*>Sol, Rynn, and Alice may notice a sort of haziness to the background of Whisper's thoughts conveyed through [Talk to Me]. It would appear that the mead is already having an effect on Whisper.*I know that not everyone actually needs to sleep, but there's so much more to explore tomorrow that I was thinking we should get some rooms at an inn so that we can rest up for tonight or at least collect ourselves.* *I definitely want to visit the moths that collect the honey used in this mead. I hear that some of them have somehow turned themselves into bee people. Can you believe that!? Incredible!*>The advantage of having both [Talk to Me] and four arms is that Whisper is able to both speak and gesticulate while still eating and drinking. He normally wouldn't do this as it can come across as a bit rude, but in his intoxication, Whisper doesn't seem to notice or care.*Oh, then we should go find the archives these fine hunters have spoken about. Need to read up on the local monsters and dungeons!"
>>82714744Yummy. Would taste everything on display.
>>https://desuarchive.org/trash/thread/82318708/#q82600140 (Domi)>Gleeta will be sending a messenger pixie once the guest suite is ready. Until then, it was back out into the city. Torsce leads Domi, and Tess if she desires, down the mountain. The path they take this time continues along the High Residential in the opposite direction they'd come from until they reach another lift that runs down to and past the Temple District, all the way to the Defender District below. This section of the city is orderly, with clearly defined structure to the layout. Along the way, the pixie guide questions them on what they're looking for and how much they're willing to spend so that she can take them to a matching place."I know just the place if you're looking for the best we have to offer. It's the Princess's favorite.">The phrase 'high class' doesn't do the restaurant justice. It has professional looking wait staff well dressed in the noble style, indoor fountains, and a stage with live music playing something slow and relaxing. An elven man welcomes him when they walk in."Greetings Sir. My name is Gelante, and I'll be serving you this evening.">Showing them to the seating, he begins by asking about beverages."Can I get you started with something to drink? I would recommend the prickly pear wine, but we also have a selection of stronger spirits crafted from the plants of the desert such as agave or sotol. For something sweeter we have alcoholic cocoa, and of course fresh ice water is available if you aren't partaking tonight.">The menu he leaves behind when he goes to fetch the drinks shows that their specialty entrees are turkey and sheep dishes. There are desserts too, with the most popular being fudge that comes in either chocolate or peanut butter.
I keep procrastinating AAAAAA
>>82721744
>>82723405Good thing they're stretchy.
>>82729301Pregnant maid with a custom outfit? How degenerate a master. Think of all the complications that would follow as a result! Do you elevate her to concubine, mistress? Will this sow discord among the ranks? Does the family approve? Certainly, any virtuous sort must legitimize the child and the mother...
We're back to preg posting hours it seems
>>82731013It's a good time!
>>82731729Some people certainly seem to think so
>>82736727I think more people would be fine with it if the boons for making it easy and safe (and not even necessarily painful) were in play—as they are here
>>82680036>>82700875>Hearing the tiny moth man order the exact same thing as her has Rynn wondering if she's misunderstood something and this is actually a small order. She considers getting even more food but doesn't want to hog what was already said to be somewhat rarely available.>Rynn downs half her drink as soon as the mug is in her hand, savoring the rest until the server returns with their food. She eagerly orders another round of drinks for the whole table even if the other two aren't yet close to done with their first. Rapidly devouring her way through her own meal as she tries to understand what Sol is saying as he stuffs his face."Actually, yeah, I see a few of the others over there. Can't really make much of a plan until we talk to the whole group but personally if nothing else happens tomorrow we'll probably go say hi to the other dragons, then maybe start exploring the desert.">>82686503>>82710399>She waves back at Alice only to suppress a sigh as an already drunk Whisper starts getting touchy again so he can ramble at their brains."We were too late to actually do anything, so we swung by the temples to get some info about what the fuck is going on here.">She knocks back her second mead and orders another as she grins at Whisper's intoxication."We're also plannin ta snag a room here if we can. Want to be around if another weirdo pops through the gate or some shit like that.">Both dragon women tilt their heads in confusion upon hearing his excitement over moths turning into bees. If he were sober Meru might just offer him a potion to transform into a bee person but as is she just assumes he's too drunk to think straight."Guess we can't avoid some reading...">Neither of them seem enthused at trying to read a language they're unfamiliar with when they're still struggling with Common.
Happy (Make Someone a) Mother's Day!
>>82645772>Shalah's temple was a veritable fortress, or at least designed to imitate one. Unlike the warm colored rock that made up most of Fermata's architecture, the material of the temple was a dull grey. Better to contrast the vibrant colors that adorned it. Banners hung from the walls. The smaller ones displayed various heraldry, but the larger two flanking the entrance were presenting sunflower symbology. The minor banners had light sources placed under them to make them visible even at night. The sunflower ones however were illuminated by grey spectral flames, burning at the bottom to give the illusion that they had caught fire. These cast a flickering light over the entryway to the temple.>Standing guard was a strikingly handsome woman. The fairy stood tall, wearing a chain mail vest with shoulder and arm guards. A sunflower made of fabric rests on her chest as a badge of office, marking her as a priestess of Shalah. She addresses the spokesperson for Riga's group."Greetings, fair travelers. What troubles bring you to the House of Shalah at this time of night?"
>>82755245>Riga and her Knight stepped out, their guide pixie warning the priestess about Riga's challenge mania as the Knight shielded her master's eyes from the priestess to avoid any sudden duels. The fairy priestess could gaze upon Riga as she wished who took off her comical guise to reveal herself as an ornated light cleric. Artaud was going to speak, but Riga chose to instead."I am Priestess Riga, Chosen of Lahash - an aligned form of Shalah or perhaps the other way around. I have seen her grace in my divinations regardless and know she cares not for perfect names.>It was really the only moderate compromise two devout priestesses could make as Riga explains their problem. "I am understanding and seeing this sister temple's.... more correct design more warmer to parlay. Lahash's beauty is in her normality in my opinion. However, the rest of Encore's faithful are not. Were I to report that the faithful of Fermata worshipped in essence aspects of the same gods just with the names rearranged in translation- a third of the useless fucks would die of stroke.">She too had vulgarity. Just was more tact with it. She'd never insult the gods or faith, just the fools around them"So if it is not troublesome, I wish to Pray to my God, to see if she is your God so I can have concrete proof you and I are the same. Proof so the folks back home cannot do anything obscene and blasphemous to the both of us. I chose the night so this would cause as little a scene as possible. My Knight is smitten and does not tolerate people who make passing remarks of me, I have to bear it in mind always.">That last comment caught her stoic Knight off guard with a rare pink embarassment across the Oni's face. She forgets Riga knows.
>>82710399>Alice on the other hand has once again forgotten to eat due to the conversation "I mean, life goal is a whole nother thing given a bit of fae blood after all, but it's going to take a while that's for sure, especially if it turns out you can sail the ocean after all">She giggles a bit turning to the hunters>>82632793"I suppose you've never seen a non-sand shark before?">>82710399"You maaay have one too many drinks, thoughts getting a little hazy, why don't you try out the new piercing for our friends?""And lets save the archives for tomorrow I don't think they'd let us in right now""Also no turning yourself into a bee before you're sober okay?">>82740517"Been flying around the city showing off your new bling eh?">A soft giggle though nothing mean, it was pretty bling after all"Room definitely is a good idea, and if need be I can set up a few fairly powerful enchantments to make sure it's actually, you know, private, should even get some moderate scrying protection courtesy of illusory overload but might want to get someone with a bit more light arka experience to add onto that just in case">Near their ears a soft but pleasant buzz turns into words meant for the 4 of them only<I'm quite curious about what you found out at the temples, they seem to have a bit of a different take on the arbiters here which I've not been able to dig into>"Any case if you're thinking of exploring the desert, these fine people who provided us with the sand shark steak have some serious experience">>82700875"Oh and Sol I have to ask, how did things go down by the gate, because unless we happened into the spiritual doppelganger of his, that was Voth wasn't it?""Also that's a heroic portion you're having there, you sure it's not you who's about to go into metamorphosis?"
>>82760525"Cleric Pristi, of Shalah's Flower Guard. If you seek another Chosen of our Lady, I regret to inform you that the Princess is not here at the moment. Her duties tend to keep her away from the temples.">Pristi's face turns into a scowl at the mention of others disapproving of their faith."One of our Lady's angels warned us in advance that most of her foreign followers worshiped little more than an echo of her true self. That they might try to judge us for our beliefs. Hah! I'd like to see them try. We were told that we are one of Shalah's most legitimate congregations. Not the only one, surely, but we have a greater claim than many. I assume that as a Chosen your knowledge is of a higher quality, so my intent isn't to disparage you but rather those that you're referring to.">She turns to guide them deeper into the complex."But please, come in. I'll show you to the chapel so that you may conduct your prayers.">The chapel that she leads them to is in a traditional western style. Lines of pews sit in front of a podium, watched over by a sculpture that stretches to the ceiling. It's of an armored woman bearing a greatshield with the same sunflower heraldry as the front banners. The sculpture is majestic, but the expression worn is grim. One of weariness and resolve. Stained glass windows showing her in different scenes run along the upper walls. These would probably be quite the sight when the sun strikes them.>Pristi walks up to the base of the statue, kneels, and offers a short saying with her gesture."Shalah endures."
>>82640048"Just adapting to the cold is going to be rough. We're probably better at it than the other races in Fermata though thanks to our limbs being furred. I hope you'd have another way for us to contribute since we definitely can't breathe underwater. I'm interested in what kind of food you get from the coast however. It's got to be quite different than what we have here.">Noli thinks about all that Bene has told her."I'm going to need to consult with Prince Pelos before making an official recommendation. I doubt the royals wouldn't let people leave if they wished, but it'd be best to keep them apprised of the situation. They may have their own ideas regarding emigration. If you can draft up an official proposal for me to take, or take it to Ambassador Gleeta yourself, it would go a long way towards making your case."
>>82710079"Oh, you poor thing. No wonder you have such a hard time.">She nods at his descriptions of his curses."We know of those, but they're considered blessings. There are shrines to the gods hidden in the desert that expeditions sometimes stumble upon. Offer a prayer to one and the god will bless the rest of your expedition. Most of the blessings will make life easier in some ways and harder in others, meaning that it's up to the expedition to determine if they wish to accept or not. The alteration of the desert to be sexual in nature is the effect given by Slinoskoe's shrines. It's known to greatly increase the survival rate of Rangers that choose to take it, and also makes the monsters more willing to negotiate or compromise. I've never heard of it being permanently applied to someone, but it would make you highly valuable as a Ranger to groups willing to accept when they encounter the shrine.""The weapon transformation effect on the other hand is something that our followers can take upon themselves as part of a magical vow. It's used to keep the alchemists and healers of our temple safe when joining the Rangers beyond the walls. Not that useful against more bestial monsters, but against the type to use weapons it not only protects them but allows them to assist in protecting others. Honestly, the more you speak the more I wonder if you weren't meant to be one of ours. It's strange that these powers were forced upon you, but these ARE powers associated with Slinoskoe.">She shakes her head."We normally charge for our services, but you're an honored guest. Besides, many of our available companions suffer like you do. Not to the same extent, but becoming a temple attendant is an acceptable way of venting excess lust for those that have it. If anything, they'll be disappointed that I'm ordering them to stick to outercourse options for the night."
>>82710079Bene scratches the back of her head, pouting."It was worth suggesting, I suppose... I also know what you mean, considering I have some of them myself.">>82769558She beams."Of course there's stuff for your people to contribute with! Aside from simply being present, founding a temple to Slinoskoe—Onoskelis—would be an immense help. Hunting, farming, logging, mining, scouting, and surveying are of course helpful, as well as being guardsmen... Um, there are plenty of opportunities for entrepreneurship, too, if that's at all interesting. As for my regional cuisine, I actually have some with me should you want some later~"Eagerly nodding the entire time Noli speaks, the elapid interjects the moment the priestess finishes."I can make it right now! I'm well-versed in legalese and we can even go together!"
10 warning
Writing....
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>>82774313Hey! We like fat fucking fox tits here! She can have them on the caption if she wants!
Butt
>>82716725>Having said the necessary goodbyes and related his budget and desires to Torsce—the few thousands of shekels on hand ought be enough for most ends, let alone the fact he can send for and receive more at a whim—they move without distraction. His eyes wander over the architecture and persons as the sun descends, catching where the shadows fall and lengthen as they go past the Temple District, an eye moving through the surfaces and finding a few familiar faces, and then continuing down to the final Defender District. >While doubtless used to garrisons having specific amenities, the concept of a whole district dedicated to them more relates, in his mind, to the Princess than the general need of one. The fact this restaurant is both the Princess's favorite and considered to be the height of Fermatan cuisine are evidence enough. The restaurant itself is certainly regal in its presentation: water features, professional waitstaff, live performances, and even the language used gives him a thought of the luxuries of Iszrine's Hearth."Good evening, Gelante.">He follows with a nod, his eye shifting through itself to get a loose idea of the "who's who" who is presently dining here. Taking a seat as his present company does, he replies to the question of drinks without delay."I will take a bottle of the prickly pear wine to start. If it is possible, a flight of your five finest spirits as well; I should like to taste the breadth of your specialties.">Having a tolerance best described as 'absurd,' Domi has little concern with the effects of alcohol. As the waiter goes to retrieve the drinks, his eyes look over the menu. While this Finger alone requires some fifteen thousand kilocalories on average, the Finger remains on the Hand, so to speak. A few dishes and a confection of fudge seem like a proper meal to that end; he notes to himself no more than two appetizers, three entrees, and one dessert atop the wines and liquors."Any recommendations, Miss Torsce?"
>>82768789>The depiction wasnt exact, but it was better than what the idiots who excommunicated her believed. Riga praying, casting a complex diviniation of light and dark. Knight prayed too albeit in total silence. Her prayers were a mystery."Shalah endures as Lahash wills.Oh solemn sister. Tearless Maiden of the eternal battlefield. She who graces mortals with the will betwixt life, I pray for a sign most immediate, proof these believers share but a fragment of your vision, my beloved.">The ritual to effectively phone call the arbiter was akin to 4 ranks in light and dark. Channeled in a way so it was impossible to tell what kind of magic lightly singed her fingers. "You know how far down the scenic route I would walk you Lahash and Shalah">Her devotion to her arbiter was definitely madness. She didnt just love her god, she had seen her before from the brief afterlife she had, and she was madly IN love with her!! She was practically the Arbiters equivalent of an Adoring Fan, said arbiter likely seeing her as yet another one of those silly goofballs who've developed a crush on her.
>>82686503"The places closer to the city aren't too dangerous. Teams like ours don't often have casualties unless they get too comfortable and sloppy. Most deaths that happen in the early areas are rookies. The Rangers try to prevent that by pairing new parties with a veteran to show them the ropes, but some people either don't listen or think they can go it alone.">>82710399>The word "inn" throws them off as the translator works its magic."A place for travelers to stay in the city? I heard they put something like that up near the riftgate compound. We didn't really need them before repairing it. Anything else along those lines wouldn't be what you're looking for. Brothels and a nearby spot for people that got too drunk to crash for example.">The hunters notice that more outsiders have shown up and that Alice and Whisper seem to know them."Friends of yours? It was nice talking to you, but we'll let you catch up. About time for us to start heading home anyway.">Stabo and Threnu get up to leave, waving goodbye to the group. Rohu is still chatting with the bartender and doesn't look like he's going to be leaving anytime soon.
>>82809850I've been waiting on this delivery. To the onboarding room, please.
>>82790373>The magical energies betwixt Riga's fingers begin to flow away from her intended channeling method, clearly separating. The dark arka pools in the center, swirling in a vortex before settling into a slow spiraling motion. The light arka lines the edges of the mass of dark arka, crystalizing into a pattern of repetitive shapes. Before she knew it, Riga's grasping hands were holding a sunflower formed from the arka of her prayer. It would fade away the moment she stopped, but so long as she continued to channel it would remain.>Pristi gives Riga a funny look at the wording of her prayer, but drops it when she sees the results."I'd think that that's about as clear a sign as you're going to get, calling forth the Lady's symbol like that."
wild
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>>82634988Skeeuuuesh
