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File 143223799410.png - (19.42KB , 900x666 , 1.png )
641859 No. 641859 ID: 05171d

>”Oh… Enzo, you make such beautiful music.”
Expand all images
>>
No. 641861 ID: 05171d
File 143223805787.png - (29.31KB , 900x666 , 2.png )
641861

“It can only be as beautiful as my muse.”

It is quiet on a spring afternoon, the wind making the trees hiss and the old barn wood creak. The shadows of leaves shimmer and dance amid the beams of sunlight seeping through the cracked wood. The hay is itching my back, but that’s just alright.

> "Will you sing a song about me? I want to hear you sing me name."
>>
No. 641863 ID: 05171d
File 143223808595.png - (17.23KB , 900x666 , 3.png )
641863

“Yes. Of course sweetheart. Your name. Your name, which is… uh…”
>>
No. 641864 ID: e114bc

>>641863
Marigold.
>>
No. 641871 ID: bd8b82

silvie
>>
No. 641875 ID: 0df2ab

Guadalupe
>>
No. 641880 ID: 05171d
File 143224075930.png - (15.83KB , 900x666 , 4.png )
641880

When I saw you standing there,
first I saw your eyes
glistening with stories to be told.
I never saw a maid so fair,
nor been so mesmerized.
With one look my heart was sold.
I want to meet you…

Mari…gold?

>>
No. 641881 ID: 05171d
File 143224077864.png - (13.19KB , 900x666 , 5.png )
641881

> “Is… is all that true, Enzo?”

Smooth.

“Every word, but you just need to look into a pond and see what I see to believe it.”

This is in the pocket.

> “I don’t need to be back home for a few more hours, maybe-”
>>
No. 641882 ID: 05171d
File 143224080002.png - (16.16KB , 900x666 , 6.png )
641882

> “ENZOOOOOOOOO!”

> “Who’s that?” asks Marigold.

“No one. I mean, I didn’t even hear anything.”

> “ENZO! MOM TOLD ME TO COME GET YOU!”

There is a loud knock on the barn door. Well, there goes my-

> “ENZOOOOOOO!”
>>
No. 641883 ID: e114bc

>>641882
Give her a kiss and say you'll meet her later.

Go tell your sibling to shut up you're coming already JEEZ
>>
No. 641884 ID: 0df2ab

Welp.

Tell Marigold you've got business to attend and you'll have to catch up later.
>>
No. 641888 ID: bd8b82

sigh,"we will continue this later"
>>
No. 641889 ID: bb78f2

Open the barn door quietly, and tell you sibling to stop yelling.
You'll be home in a few hours, alright? You just have to take care of something, go on home by yourself sibling.
>>
No. 641891 ID: 78a595

>>641882
*Sigh* I suppose I can only hope absence will make the heart grow fonder. Fate can be cruel, at times.
>>
No. 641897 ID: 05171d
File 143225262898.png - (17.52KB , 900x666 , 7.png )
641897

“Sweet Marigold, I’ll be back for you. I have to deal with-”

She interrupts me with a kiss.
>>
No. 641900 ID: 05171d
File 143225278105.png - (10.80KB , 900x666 , 9.png )
641900

> “Hurry back,” she says, “I’ll be waiting.”

“Thanks! I’ll be back, like I said. Right here. Right here in the barn.” I hurry for the door...

> “Enzo,” she says, and I stop.

“Yes?”
>>
No. 641901 ID: 05171d
File 143225280107.png - (12.72KB , 900x666 , 8.png )
641901

> “My name is Lola, by the way.”

Well, this is unexpected. I may be in love. Maybe I can make this quick.
>>
No. 641903 ID: 05171d
File 143225281784.png - (8.20KB , 900x666 , 10.png )
641903

“What do you want?”

> “Uh… u-uh, mom said she wanted you back at the house.”

“How’d she know where to look? Huh?”

> “She said, uh, that you were ‘probably at the barn debauching some city tart’.”

“Well I’m busy. Tell her I’ll be back home in an hour. No, two hours. Three hours.”
>>
No. 641904 ID: 05171d
File 143225283714.png - (10.38KB , 900x666 , 11.png )
641904

> “What does ‘debauch’ mean?”

“Rufio, go back home, and tell Mom I’ll be there in a couple of hours. Get out of here!”

> “She said to come now or you’re in trouble.”

Aaaauugh.

“Well, what does she want?”

> “She said you brought her bad wine and that you stacked the jars wrong in the pantry.”

“I stacked them exactly- ugh. Never mind. I’ll go.”

> “S… sorry Enzo. A-are you mad at me?”

That line. His face, his stupid little face. Rrrr…

“No,” I say with a sigh. “No, I’m not mad. It’s ok. Just go home, I’ll be right there.”

> “Sorry…”
>>
No. 641907 ID: 9297f4

Well, you were close, but you'll still be getting some later, hopefully. For now, do the chore your bitch of a mother is telling you do do.
>>
No. 641912 ID: 7c3d54

>>641904
Maybe you should just... Disobey your mother? Who knows if she'll be there when you are done or if you'll get pulled into more chores while you are there.
>>
No. 641915 ID: 78a595

>“What does ‘debauch’ mean?”
Uh... kissing and stuff. Except with a certain Mom-appropriate suggestion of condescension and disapproval.

>“Sorry…”
Not your fault.
>>
No. 641921 ID: 05171d
File 143225686312.png - (16.17KB , 900x666 , 12.png )
641921

“It’s like… kissing and stuff.”

I was this close to stuff until he showed up.

We take the trail back home to the priory village outside of Als Eyvor. Believe me, it’s not as luxurious as it sounds. These are houses clustered close to the curtain walls for fear of war, not out of any high social standing.

> “Enzo,” says Rufio.

“What.”

> “How come we never play swordfight anymore?”

“Because I’m too old for that stuff now, and so are you. You’re ten now.”

> “But it was fun! Besides, mom says they will be teaching me swordfighting at the academy. How come you don’t get to go to the academy?”

I just keep walking. With my longer legs, it’s easy to get ahead of him. I hear the patter of his legs catching up, though.

> “Can you teach me to duel? It won’t be playing if you’re teaching me. I know you have a rapier!”

“Hey, you shut up!” I stop to turn around at that. “Who told you I have one?”

> “I… I found it in the old barn. Sorry. Sorry, I didn’t mean to find it-”

“Don’t you dare tell mom that I have a real sword. She’d throw it in the bay if she found out.”

> “I won’t tell her. I promise. I double-promise. Now can you teach me? Please, please, please, please?!”

Again, I sigh. I make the mistake of looking back at him, and now I can’t say no. “Alright, fine. But if mom finds out about this, I’ll give you a licking, because I’ll know it was you that told her.”

> “Triple. Promise.”

Well, that made me smile a little bit. Hope he didn’t see. We arrive home, and I find mother with a familiar look on her face.
>>
No. 641922 ID: 05171d
File 143225688244.png - (8.96KB , 900x666 , 13.png )
641922

Ah shit, just look at her. To think I could be getting some right now from… what’s her name.
>>
No. 641923 ID: 05171d
File 143225690463.png - (13.09KB , 900x666 , 14.png )
641923

> “Rufio!” Mother yells, embracing my younger brother, “My sweet child, are you alright? Did he hit you?”

> “No mom,” he replies.

> “Oh, good, good. You’ve been a good boy, now run along and work on your studies. Just three weeks until you leave for the White Academy. Can you believe it? Mommy is so proud, but she’ll miss you so, so much.” She hugs Rufio again, then whips around.
>>
No. 641924 ID: 05171d
File 143225692170.png - (14.81KB , 900x666 , 15.png )
641924

> “Enzo, you worthless child! Look at me! What were you doing back there? Tickling some poor farmer’s daughter no doubt! I said look at me!”

I try to tune out during these.

> “I told you to stack the jarred cabbage from most-pickled to least-pickled. Are you that bleeding stupid, or are you just blind?”

Why does it even matter what order of pickledness they are in.

> “And this swill you brought me from the city? Why didn’t you go to mister Rodrigo like always?”

“Mister Rodrigo was in between cask shipments. He didn’t have any-”

> “Excuses! I asked for wine, not… piss! Go outside! Don’t come back ‘til morning.”

Rufio gives me the same remorseful look as always as I head out the door. Well, at least she didn’t give me anymore chores…
>>
No. 641926 ID: e114bc

>>641924
...better hurry along then before she thinks of something. Get back to Lola.
>>
No. 641927 ID: bd8b82

don't say this but, wow what a bitch.
>>
No. 641930 ID: 334db2

How the hell did this happen?
>>
No. 641931 ID: 78a595

>Go outside! Don’t come back ‘til morning.
Well, you might have an excuse to get back to... you know... if she isn't gone yet.
>>
No. 641936 ID: 05171d
File 143225881494.png - (11.82KB , 900x666 , 16.png )
641936

>what a bitch
>how did this happen
She always resented me because my father left home after I was born. She remarried before she had Rufio. His dad was a knight or something. I don’t remember him all that much, but he seemed pretty night. He left too, but it was because he had to go off to war, and he didn’t come back.

I guess that technically makes Rufio my half brother, but… well, I don’t really like to say it that way. It’s like a dirty word to me. He’s my brother. Why does it matter who his dad was? Shit, whatever.
>>
No. 641937 ID: 05171d
File 143225883630.png - (8.75KB , 900x666 , 17.png )
641937

I arrive back at the barn, my stomach full of butterflies and my legs wobbling with excitement. I can’t get my heart to slow down, but I kind of don’t want it to!
>>
No. 641938 ID: 05171d
File 143225886364.png - (14.61KB , 900x666 , 18.png )
641938

> “Enzo!”


>>
No. 641939 ID: 78a595

...threesome?
>>
No. 641940 ID: e114bc

>>641938
PORQUE, LOLA? PORQUE?!
>>
No. 641941 ID: 334db2

You'd best be fucking joking Lola.
>>
No. 641943 ID: bd8b82

calmly walk over to your stashed sword. cut some bitches.
>>
No. 641944 ID: 334db2

Who's this chucklehead?
>>
No. 641948 ID: 0df2ab

Be dumbfounded.
>>
No. 641956 ID: 05171d
File 143226052142.png - (22.11KB , 900x666 , 19.png )
641956

> “Enzo! How’s it goin’ little buddy? Nice hat.”
>>
No. 641957 ID: 05171d
File 143226053627.png - (7.56KB , 900x666 , 20.png )
641957

“Hector.”

> “The one and only. Say, we were just talking about you. Small world, huh?”




>>641943
No, I’m not murdering anyone.
>>
No. 641958 ID: e114bc

>>641957
So is this how you got into the cult, Ortise?

Go "was it about how I was supposed to be back soon?"
>>
No. 641960 ID: 78a595

>>641956
Geeze, why's she smiling. She likes you doofs fighting over her? Or she's glad you came back and she's not stuck with lame old hector. Yeah, that must be it.

>Say, we were just talking about you. Small world, huh?
So she couldn't stop thinking about me even with you around? *Shit eating grin* Kinda surprised you'd think of me when there's a pretty girl in your face, but hey, I don't judge.
>>
No. 641966 ID: 05171d
File 143226192318.png - (9.03KB , 900x666 , 22.png )
641966

“So I guess she couldn’t stop thinking of me, even when you were around, huh? Neither could I. I mean you. Neither could you.
>>
No. 641967 ID: 05171d
File 143226195987.png - (13.24KB , 900x666 , 21.png )
641967

> “Ha! Guess she couldn’t. She mentioned your lovely singing voice, and how you’re so adorable. Adorable like… how did you put it Lola?”

> Lola looks away, still smiling a bit. “Uh… like a little brother.”

> “Lady’s got a way with words, you know? And a way with a few other things if you catch my drift,” says Hector, “Anyway, I was just about to go for a swim. Catch you later.” He clicks his tongue and exits the barn. Lola follows him to the bay.
>>
No. 641969 ID: 05171d
File 143226197977.png - (10.92KB , 900x666 , 23.png )
641969

Boy that really sucked
>>
No. 641974 ID: d4894e

>>641969
Keep calm, there are other fish in the sea. Head outside and smell the opportunity in the air.
>>
No. 641975 ID: bd8b82

get your sword, kill them.
>>
No. 641976 ID: 78a595

Hey, some girls like adorable! Work with what you got.

He's just better at throwing down insults and taking things out of context than you. Don't sweat it.

Follow 'em.
>>
No. 641977 ID: b9cef6

Call her a creep for kissing a dude she felt was like a little brother
Also leave
Try not to cry
Cry just a little
>>
No. 641978 ID: 334db2

Skip the 'denial' thing and go straight to 'anger' and throw something at a wall.
>>
No. 641979 ID: 0df2ab

Just leave.
>>
No. 641980 ID: 05171d
File 143226288711.png - (7.08KB , 900x666 , 24.png )
641980

>leave
Yeah, I’m not sticking around this stupid barn anymore.

>get sword
Might as well take that with me, too.

>anger
I kick a bunch of hay on the way out. You know what pisses me off most about this? My mother was right. She was a tart. My mother was right. Ack!



> “STOP! JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!” comes a cry from a short ways down the trail, and it pulls me from my fit of anger.
>>
No. 641981 ID: 78a595

>>641980
Go, now, quick. Run. Someone's in trouble.
>>
No. 641982 ID: e114bc

>>641980
Well you have a sword. Maybe it's time to use it.
>>
No. 641983 ID: 334db2

Investigate, but stay hidden.
>>
No. 641984 ID: 05171d
File 143226387960.png - (17.47KB , 900x666 , 25.png )
641984

I crouch in the bushes outside of the barn and take a look down the road.

> “Fuckin ivory tower prick faggot!”
> “Think you’re better than us?! FUCK YOU!”
> “Take that bow out of your hair, faggot!”

The hateful cries are intermittent with a child’s yelps and screams. Some kid is being savagely beaten

Some kid… some kid…

FUCK! It’s Rufio! Neither of the men are armed, and there's no one else in sight. Hector and Lola are far down the road. Fuck, shit, damn it. Ass ass ass ass. What is Rufio doing out here alone again?!
>>
No. 641986 ID: e114bc

>>641984
Jump out and yell at them to get the hell away from your brother. Draw your sword and take a proper fighting stance with it, but use deadly force only as a last resort.
>>
No. 641987 ID: 334db2

Crap, your mother will blame you for this won't she?

Whelp, you know what you must do. Give them a chance to back off, but don't hesitate to act.
>>
No. 641989 ID: bd8b82

stab them up and sit on their corpses.
>>
No. 641993 ID: 9297f4

Kick ass and chew something similar to gum. And you're all outta gum.
>>
No. 641994 ID: 78a595

>What is Rufio doing out here alone again?!
He followed you, almost certainly.

>>641984
Sword. They taste steel for this.
>>
No. 641995 ID: 05171d
File 143226505816.png - (12.63KB , 900x666 , 26.png )
641995

“Hey, you two fuck the hell off! Leave him alone!”

The men begin to laugh.
>>
No. 641996 ID: 05171d
File 143226507702.png - (14.83KB , 900x666 , 27.png )
641996

One of the men tosses a rock at my face. It strikes me with a wet sound, and I taste blood. My ears ring for a moment, but when my hearing returns, they are shouting.

> “Who the fuck are you? Tryin to defend this piece of shit? I’ll have to fucking kill you, too!”
>>
No. 641997 ID: e114bc

>>641996
Was that the only rock they had? Don't rush in. You don't want to get surrounded. Approach and see if you can get one to lunge at you. Slice his shit and get some distance afterwards. You have to keep from getting grabbed, otherwise they'll just disarm you.

If one goes for another rock you're gonna be in trouble.
>>
No. 641998 ID: 78a595

>>641995
Combat lesson 1: don't make threats. Just attack.

>>641996
Get your balance back, pick your position carefully, and attack when there's an opening. Don't speak.
>>
No. 642000 ID: bd8b82

return fire, run down there and just stab them, in the dicks.
>>
No. 642001 ID: 05171d
File 143226692230.png - (12.04KB , 900x666 , 28.png )
642001

One of the men runs at me. At first, I am frightened by how fast he is coming, like a rhino blind with rage. Then everything becomes slow. My heart is throbbing, but there is no anxiety. I step out of the way and jab him in the side, stepping into the thrust like I had practiced. A good lunge is in the hips.

His blood begins to leak from the wound, and I shuffle forward a bit. The sword dips in like a knife in pork, and then I awaken from my adrenaline rush to hear his horrific cry of pain. The man collapses, holding his wound.

Ha ha!

The other man, a coward, has run back to town. That’s it? It’s over? Too easy. It can’t be over…

It was like a flash.

It can’t be over…
>>
No. 642002 ID: 05171d
File 143226694511.png - (7.58KB , 900x666 , 29.png )
642002

> “A murderer. My son… A murderer…”
>>
No. 642003 ID: 05171d
File 143226697159.png - (1.80KB , 900x666 , 30.png )
642003

> “No… Enzo isn’t home.”

> “Are you sure?”

> “Yes.”

> “Inform us when he arrives here. Mrs. Ortise, your son will be apprehended.”

The front door slams. I can’t see out from beneath the stairs.

> “A murderer… a murderer. No… not my son. Not my son…”

> “My son…”
>>
No. 642004 ID: 05171d
File 143226699277.png - (7.29KB , 900x666 , 31.png )
642004

> “My son?”

> “My son? A word with you, if I may?”
>>
No. 642005 ID: 78a595

Groan.

I'm listening, father.
>>
No. 642006 ID: e114bc

>>642004
Ask him what he wants.

So how did your timid little brother become the White Dragon?
>>
No. 642008 ID: f0a5e4

>>642001
Shit sucks, man. Sorry about all that.
....
So, sorry if it's too soon to ask, but what happened that Rufio ended up taking your arm if you became a fugitive saving his life? Doesn't he remember that?
>>
No. 642013 ID: 05171d
File 143226811232.png - (12.91KB , 900x666 , 32.png )
642013

> How did Rufio…?
If I knew the answers to any of these questions… well, I wouldn’t be who I am today. I wouldn’t be so… fuck, I really don’t want to talk about it, ok?

Oh… I’m awake. “Eh? Huh? Whatcha want, Padre?”
>>
No. 642015 ID: 05171d
File 143226812783.png - (7.79KB , 900x666 , 33.png )
642015

> “Well, you see, there’s been this… this question. Yes, a question of an ethical nature, you see. One that has kept me awake. Well, I don’t sleep, but if I was still mortal and living, sleep I would not! I wanted to ask you this question, my son.”

“Spit it out, Padre.”

> “So, erm, you are the proprietor of a hospital, in essence. A hospital which operates for profit, and this question is one that every one of such establishments MUST inevitably face at some point. You see… you see… you charge money to heal the wounded and the sick, but what if a person in need does not have the money to pay? My son, what do you do?”

“Fuck… I don’t need this so early in the morning, Padre.”

> “My son, it is 1:30PM.”

“Oh, well, that’s a fair cop.”
>>
No. 642016 ID: 78a595

>>642013
Please tell me that's not the mayor's girl. We can't have messed that up already.

>what do you do if someone can't pay
Hmm. See if we can work out some kind of alternate payment method. Maybe they work for us, or do something for us. Shit, I don't know.
>>
No. 642017 ID: f22b47

>>642015
we heal them, have them work off the debt or owe us a favor for it.
pretty simple, really, we'll always be in need of more able hands.
>>
No. 642019 ID: d3be40

You could offer low-level healing to those who don't pay. That way, you offer healing like any hospital but give better quality service (and more healing) to the people who fork over the cash. Since the healing potions stop working outside of the cathedral, this makes black market healing weak.
>>
No. 642023 ID: e114bc

Then they work off their debt, or offer up some other form of goods as a manner of payment.
>>
No. 642025 ID: bd8b82

heal now pay later. someone with a hurt arm can work better when healed.
>>
No. 642026 ID: 05171d
File 143227016895.png - (15.21KB , 900x666 , 34.png )
642026

>please tell me that isn’t the mayor’s girl
No, no, this isn’t the mayor’s girl. This girl’s name is...
>>
No. 642027 ID: 05171d
File 143227018825.png - (15.37KB , 900x666 , 35.png )
642027

…is uh…

Well, her name’s not important. Father raises an excellent question.
>>
No. 642028 ID: 05171d
File 143227020334.png - (10.12KB , 900x666 , 36.png )
642028

“It’s simple, really,” I say, “we heal anyone who comes to us in need, and they can work off their debts, or pay in installments. We are in dire need of working hands here, anyway.”

> “So… we won’t have to turn anyone away?”

“Fuck no.”

> “Sharp! Very sharp, my son! What could possibly go wrong?”

“Nothing that I can see.”

With that out of the way, I need to think about how I am going to manage this place. It’s kind of a mess now. We need: direction, public image, and protection, among any number of other things.
>>
No. 642029 ID: bd8b82

uhh.... well, currently you are probably the best protection.
public image is probably just being an open place for the wounded.

uhhh... direction... get this place looking less shitty?
>>
No. 642031 ID: 063543

Don't try and push the "count" thing just yet, the real people in power might not appreciate some one-armed dandy getting uppity. First, gain support as a "trustworthy man working for the betterment of all", despite how inaccurate that may be.

Ask those who come by if they know of any people who might wish to work in a place like this, or for a person like you. Those in bad situations you can actually put to work instead of having them putz around like losers. Start low and slow, and with the healing font at your beck and call, it won't be long before you have some real support.
>>
No. 642032 ID: a19cd5

>>642028
Ask cheif who he knows outside the tribe, any contacts we have available should be exploited in full.
>>
No. 642034 ID: e114bc

>>642028
Consider talking to the priest about your womanizing problem.

Protection: hire guards? Also train some of the villagers yourself for a more loyal standing force.
Direction: staying alive, for now. That big jerkwad will want to take this place over. If you can fortify enough to make him want to negotiate instead of attack, that will be good.
Public image: You'll want some sort of crest or identifying symbol. It should symbolize good health and good living.
>>
No. 642041 ID: 05171d
File 143227417923.png - (10.49KB , 900x666 , 38.png )
642041

>womanizing problem

What womanizing problem

The transition directly from sex cult to hospital/church has not been easy on my nuts
>>
No. 642042 ID: 05171d
File 143227420138.png - (11.38KB , 900x666 , 39.png )
642042

Hm, seems like I have a lot of excellent ideas in mind now.

>style of count
I was thinking about that the other day. Maybe I’ll drop the style. Humility is not my strong suit.

>clean the place up
Duly noted.

>training the villagers
I think I’ll have to talk to the chief about that. He’ll know a bit more on the subject.
>>
No. 642043 ID: 05171d
File 143227423141.png - (8.65KB , 900x666 , 37.png )
642043

“Yo, chief!”

> “My name… is Arnel Abar.”

“Ok, whatever. Listen, I’ve been thinking that we need a small militia to defend this place. The village is the obvious source for recruits.”

> “You’re out of luck. The most recent wave of conscripts departed this morning. The village barely has enough people to farm, craft, and clean. They took the majority of the orphans, so all we have left for defense is children, women, and the elderly.”

Well, that’s no good. I will have to look into that further.
>>
No. 642044 ID: 05171d
File 143227426651.png - (10.76KB , 900x666 , 40.png )
642044

Things seems to be coming together a bit. I would like to explore the possibility of an alternative income source to fall back on, too.

Oh, and before I forget, there’s the matter of that emblem. That should help with PR, and might also create solidarity among my people.
>>
No. 642045 ID: 05171d
File 143227434251.png - (2.62KB , 294x608 , emblem.png )
642045

[Please help to design or vote on a banner emblem!]
>>
No. 642054 ID: f262c4
File 143227566227.png - (3.58KB , 294x608 , CANIGONOW.png )
642054

Fine. I'll fucking do it.
>>
No. 642055 ID: a19cd5
File 143227573858.png - (18.05KB , 294x608 , watersports.png )
642055

I'm feeling something a bit symbolic, to feed into ortise's ego
>>
No. 642061 ID: a19cd5
File 143227660830.png - (18.29KB , 294x608 , watersports.png )
642061

The real version tho
>>
No. 642062 ID: 39d5a4
File 143227679038.png - (20.51KB , 294x608 , seven_samuris.png )
642062

Oh scrap, I was first going to draw a cup to represent solidarity but then it went all two girls one cup sheit. So I rode to the sunrise
>>
No. 642063 ID: f262c4
File 143227690863.png - (22.24KB , 294x608 , PersonallyIlovedogsandtheyaregreat.png )
642063

For real though. A simple, to the point, (easy to draw) design.
>>
No. 642065 ID: a19cd5

>>642063
You know, I think this one really gets the POINT across.
>>
No. 642067 ID: 063543
File 143227754430.jpg - (21.20KB , 294x608 , rm2ekcrw.jpg )
642067

It, uh, represents, like... Like, the bottom is a heart, and the top is a point of... solidarity? The whole thing looks kinda like an arrow, for strength or something. And the fist is the people's firm hold on their own state of affairs... or something.
>>
No. 642070 ID: 57d76a
File 143227896182.png - (25.03KB , 294x608 , Sketch2250032.png )
642070

Imagine it looks more elegant and smooth overall...

Anyway it should make people believe the font itself is some fancy thing (even if we tell them that's not what it actually looks like) so that should help if we ever have people trying to steal it or some shit. And we can say the egg is symbolic of new life or something, only we few know what it actually is about.
>>
No. 642073 ID: a19cd5
File 143228028913.png - (14.84KB , 294x608 , watersports.png )
642073

>>642070
You know actually, this is a really good idea. I did an alt version of it to compete w/it because I am a shameless idea thief.

Something something Yoke of Life, we can put a bunch of egg statuary around and start spreading "fertility" scripture as an added bonus, get our OWN sex cult going!
>>
No. 642074 ID: d3be40
File 143228099740.png - (12.92KB , 294x608 , Compressed Potential.png )
642074

Represent the overwhelming power of the fountain in the simplest of designs.
>>
No. 642077 ID: e114bc

Oh! It occurs to me that you might be able to ally with the bunny-people now that you have reason for them to take you seriously.
>>
No. 642098 ID: 39d5a4
File 143230628027.png - (14.95KB , 294x608 , banner.png )
642098

This really. I liked the idea of the fountain. What struck me too was the haystack in the beginning.
>>
No. 642123 ID: 05171d
File 143232364225.png - (10.70KB , 900x666 , 41.png )
642123

>>642098
I can play around with this one a bit. Yeah, that’ll do.

I should probably put on some clothes.

> “What’s the news, bossman?”

“The celebration garnered us a lot of favor with the village, but also got a lot of attention from that warlord’s retainers,” I say, “And, wait, bossman? I’m surprised your not calling the chief boss.”

> “He ain’t my chief, bossman.”

“I need a new set of clothes. I can’t rely on other people to dress me anymore if I’m going to lead this place. Maybe something a little more one-arm friendly.”

> “Yeah, I sure as hell ain’t dressing you every morning.”

“I have been thinking about some kind of alliance with the local Bilks. Any ideas on that?”

> “I wouldn’t rule it out,” she says, “but my people are wary. Whenever there is a war, it is us who are exploited first. That why I was trained to sling, see. My mama wouldn’t let me have an apple for breakfast until I could hit it off of a fencepost with a sling. When you’re that hungry, you get good, y’see?”

“Interesting. Well, I hope you know I don’t mean to exploit them.”

> “Yeah, that’s what they all say, so don’t expect any Bilk to just up and believe you.”

“Why did you believe me?”

> “Huh? Oh, well, because I’m not like them, bossman. I don’t want to sit and fish and have babies until we have to hide from Lord Basstrid when the war comes.”

“What do you want?”

> “Huh, you know,” says Levna, pausing to think about it. “I never thought I’d get to a point in my life when anyone’d be asking me that question. I wanna be a chef.”

“A chef?”

> “Yeah, a chef. Not just an old den mother who cooks for her kids. I mean a chef. A famous chef whose food and rink are known far and wide. I want to invent a dish that defines a region. I know I can do it. I’ve just never had the chance.”

“Well, consider this your chance,” I say, holding up my wrist and then donning my cape. “Don’t blow it. Thanks for your help, Levna.”

> “Remember what I said, bossman! I’m not dressing you like this every day.”

“Noted.”

It’s quiet in the cathedral this afternoon. The villagers who had not gone off to war have returned to Pernille. An unfamiliar cough echoes through the sanctum.
>>
No. 642124 ID: e114bc

>>642123
A visitor? Go say hello.
>>
No. 642128 ID: 05171d
File 143232648058.png - (14.82KB , 900x666 , 43.png )
642128

Father Alvin flies in a spiral pattern toward me, flapping his arms like an idiot and babbling.

> “HEBELBALBHEBLE! COME QUICKLY! SOMETHING HAS HAPPENED. COME ON COME ON COME ON COME ON”
>>
No. 642129 ID: 05171d
File 143232650193.png - (12.18KB , 900x666 , 42.png )
642129

> *cough cough*
>>
No. 642130 ID: e114bc

>>642129
Oh my god he's awake. The kid is awake! Ask him how he's feeling. Also chide him for being so reckless and almost dying.
>>
No. 642132 ID: 78a595

Oh, hey, the kid we rescued finally woke up? Gotten over than nearly being vampire bugged to death?

Ask how he's feeling, if he's got a name, how he ended up getting eaten by a giant bug.
>>
No. 642133 ID: 39d5a4

The kid needs some loving care now. The wounds aren't just in the flesh...
>>
No. 642135 ID: 9297f4

Adopt.
>>
No. 642137 ID: 05171d
File 143232974710.png - (13.76KB , 900x666 , 44.png )
642137

“You’re alive! I’m so glad you’re alive! I thought you weren’t gonna make it, kiddo! Are you feeling ok? Do you need anything? Food? Water?”
>>
No. 642138 ID: 05171d
File 143232976545.png - (8.77KB , 900x666 , 45.png )
642138

> “Get… away… from me… cripple.”
>>
No. 642139 ID: 05171d
File 143232977872.png - (9.21KB , 900x666 , 46.png )
642139

What
>>
No. 642140 ID: 2a7417

Remind him you could beat him with one arm tied behind your back. The good arm.
>>
No. 642141 ID: 39d5a4

No no no! The process of healing HAS begun! O look! This will lead to a whole boy again. Continue the pain sucking by laying hands on the boy and using your healing powers. It always works. You have to get used to doing it.
>>
No. 642142 ID: c9d544

Play nice, he might be some rich dude's bratty kid, could get a reward for having saved his life. Or maybe he's just a brat and you're gonna have to remind him you saved his life through almost-slavery, who knows
>>
No. 642143 ID: 334db2

Who's a cripple, jackass? You were just about dead, you know. Who are you anyway?
>>
No. 642144 ID: bd8b82

"that giant bug that tried to kill you? i killed IT, i am therefor clearly better then you despite the handicap. unless you want the bugs to come back and finish eating you"
>>
No. 642146 ID: 78a595

Geeze, kid, did you insult the giant bugs too?
>>
No. 642148 ID: 05171d
File 143233196421.png - (10.97KB , 900x666 , 47.png )
642148

>>642143
>>642144
He’s probably just shaken from what happened. I’ll soften it up a little bit. I don't think it'd be wise to go off on him when he's probably just scared.

“See, I think there’s probably just a lot of confusion going around. I don’t blame you! You’ve been through a lot. I saved your life, you see. You’re in a safe place now. No more giant bugs!”
>>
No. 642149 ID: 05171d
File 143233197936.png - (10.85KB , 900x666 , 48.png )
642149

> “Con… gratulations… you want… a fucking… cookie or somethin’?”
>>
No. 642150 ID: 05171d
File 143233199309.png - (11.62KB , 900x666 , 49.png )
642150

Holy shit this kid’s an asshole
>>
No. 642151 ID: e114bc

>>642150
Tell him to watch his goddamn mouth or you'll throw him out.
>>
No. 642152 ID: bd8b82

get the father, tell him to haunt this kid, HARD. and to just preach his ass off.
>>
No. 642153 ID: 334db2

I want you to not be an ass to the guy who saved your life. Who the hell are you anyway?
>>
No. 642155 ID: f0a5e4

Heh. I like his guts.
I mean it's not like we expected him to be all fukken fawning over our glorious heroic visage.
He's a kid, synonymous with asshole. Oh, and then there's that whole, orphans are worthless to society except as corpses or slaves thing his home village has goin on. Hard knocks give you a hard heart.
Hahah. Not like we know anyone else who had a rough childhood that made him tough and hardboiled and asinine. Ha. Haha. Ha.
>>
No. 642156 ID: dbe554

>>642154
And at the moment, he's certainly making himself look quite viable as a corpse.
>>
No. 642157 ID: d45ea1

Well ex-SQUEEZE me, jackass. You want me to just go ahead and wheel this bed out of here, if you're such a big man, doesn't need to thank the guy who nursed him back to health for three days.
>>642152
This, too.
>>
No. 642159 ID: 05171d
File 143233367120.png - (13.42KB , 900x666 , 50.png )
642159

>>642151
>>642152
>>642157
>>642153

“LISTEN HERE YOU LITTLE SHIT

I risked my life to save your sorry ass, so if you don’t show a little damn respect I’ll have the padre here guilt trip you to hell. Who the hell do you think you are? Don’t you test me, I’ll show your ass off this alter and out the door-”


>>
No. 642160 ID: 05171d
File 143233368602.png - (8.22KB , 900x666 , 51.png )
642160


>>
No. 642161 ID: 05171d
File 143233369880.png - (39.14KB , 900x666 , 52.png )
642161



None of them

None of them heard what the kid said, did they
>>
No. 642162 ID: a19cd5

>>642161
Facepalm hard, sigh.
"Yeah yeah, I deserve that. Kid's got a mouth and I overreacted to it. Someone get him some food, I'm just gonna step away a bit so I don't continue making an ass of myself."
rip
>>
No. 642163 ID: 9f4736

Why would you think that was an okay thing to do

That was the worst thing to do

Try and play it off as "And that's what I WOULD say if I weren't such a kind and charitable soul" or somesuch
>>
No. 642168 ID: 78a595

>>642161
*Loud sigh*

Our miracle patient is alive, and a jerk. Allow me to excuse myself before he provokes me into making more of an ass of myself.
>>
No. 642169 ID: d3be40

Mumble "ungrateful jackass" and get back to work. Don't add drama.
>>
No. 642170 ID: e114bc

>>642161
Oh just tell them to deal with the kid, he's got a lot of sass in him. You could even say he called you a cripple.

Don't play it off as a mistake or start treating him nicely again, you'll just look like a liar.
>>
No. 642171 ID: 05171d
File 143233468975.png - (11.50KB , 900x666 , 54.png )
642171

> “M-m-mister… I… I just w-wanted a… drink of water. I’m s-sorry I forgot to say ‘p-p-p-please’… I don’t even have enough… enough tears… left… to cry…”
>>
No. 642172 ID: 05171d
File 143233470753.png - (10.29KB , 900x666 , 53.png )
642172

“Woah… ok, you know what, I’m sorry, that was… I’m just gonna go ahead and let you sleep. Water, yes… water, comin’ right up.”

This kid is the fucking devil.
>>
No. 642173 ID: d45ea1

I'm sorry, I've been under a lot of stress recently. I'm gonna go get a breath of fresh air before our healthy patient here needs more medical care.
>>
No. 642174 ID: d45ea1

>>642173
Whoop

Anyway, go get him his damn cup of water.
Make it hot. Say you've got to disinfect it or something.
Make it very, very hot.
>>
No. 642175 ID: a19cd5

>>642173
This.
Make sure to mention to mention to the chief as you pass to keep an eye on him, he's manipulative.
>>
No. 642176 ID: 78a595

Okay, really, you don't have time for the bullshit. Fob him off on someone else (you run a hospital for goodness' sake). Don't bother dealing with the stupid patient again, and throw him out when he's recovered.
>>
No. 642177 ID: f0a5e4

>>642171
....This kid has promise.
He's an asshole, sure, but he's got spunk. Spunk and an excellent understanding of how to manipulate the expectations of those around him.
Now all we have to do is manipulate him into using that attitude for productive purposes. We're looking for asshole thief with a heart of silver, not bratty orphan wastrel thug.
>>
No. 642178 ID: e114bc

>>642172
Let him think that worked. Out of earshot you can tell the others he called you a cripple.
>>
No. 642181 ID: bd8b82

pass the buck. and don't even try to justify yourself when asked say the kid called you a cripple and you are sensitive about that.
>>
No. 642182 ID: 05171d
File 143233708907.png - (10.63KB , 900x666 , 56.png )
642182

>>642177
I am all for trying to whip this kid into shape somehow, but I won’t tolerate him if he’s not willing to put in any effort. He’ll just cause trouble. We’ll only need to redirect his aggressions, or maybe just teach him not to be an asshole. I’m not great with kids, so fuck if I know.


I walk by the chief and whisper, “Keep a close eye on the kid. He’s a manipulative prick. He called me a cripple.”

> “Reconsidering your stance on orphans, yet?”

“Shut up. Did you forget that you call me the same thing? Just make sure he doesn’t cause any trouble.”

> The chief looks to his fiancee, and says, “Dearest Lucille, would you be so kind as to keep watch over the patient? Mister Ortise here says that he can be a bit of a handful, but you are an orphan too, so perhaps you two can bond.”

> “Of course sir,” says Lucille with a curtsy.

> “I trust her to handle it,” says the chief, “I am going to go back to town to see if I can reason with that retainer that Lord Basstrid left behind.”

“Thank you. Report back to me with what you find.”

> “As you say, master.”



END CHAPTER FOUR.
>>
No. 642183 ID: 05171d
File 143233712478.png - (17.79KB , 900x666 , 1.png )
642183

[PLEASE SELECT A CHARACTER.]
>>
No. 642185 ID: a19cd5

>>642183
Tiny rabbit cook
>>
No. 642193 ID: e2a92b

>Select a character
Alt+0252.
>>
No. 642196 ID: b4bfb5

We gotta have BunBun, hun
>>
No. 642217 ID: 9e5585

small bun
>>
No. 642219 ID: 05171d
File 143235127485.png - (8.44KB , 900x666 , 2.png )
642219

> become bun



Eheh. Eheh! Smells bad like pipe smoke in here.

> “Lemme get this straight, one more time. You wanna borrow 500 pounds of barley, 50 pounds of hops, and 25 pounds of yeast?”
>>
No. 642220 ID: 05171d
File 143235129874.png - (8.97KB , 900x666 , 3.png )
642220

“Yeah.”
>>
No. 642221 ID: 05171d
File 143235131539.png - (7.15KB , 900x666 , 4.png )
642221

> “Fascinating. You got some kinda collateral?”
>>
No. 642223 ID: 78a595

...like what?
>>
No. 642224 ID: e114bc

>>642221
"I got a spear!"

But seriously for something this big you'd probably have to use your position at the cathedral as collateral. Free access to healing waters is worth something.
>>
No. 642225 ID: a19cd5

Five years of free healing.
>>
No. 642226 ID: bd8b82

"what's a collateral?"
>>
No. 642227 ID: d3be40

Ask if you can just buy the ingredients in gold and supplies. Because you're a chef. Who works at a hospital.
>>
No. 642228 ID: 05171d
File 143235391818.png - (10.52KB , 900x666 , 5.png )
642228

“I happen to work in a highly lucrative industry,” I say, “and if I can’t deliver cash return on your terms, I’ll give you unlimited access to a healing spring for five years.”

> “Five years. Of healing. From a magical healing spring.”

“Yes sir.”
>>
No. 642229 ID: 05171d
File 143235393383.png - (6.85KB , 900x666 , 6.png )
642229

> “I can see you’re a little more clever than the average broad, so I won’t lie to you. That sounds a whole lot like bullshit.”

“It’s true.”

> “Sure, sure. How about this. If you can’t deliver a two-to-one ROI within a month, you come work for us. I’m valuing this loan at 1500 grimps.”

“A month? It takes three weeks to ferment!”

> “Maybe this just wasn’t meant to be. I’ll have my boys show you the door…”

“Wait, wait! Two months. Two months, and 2.5:1 ROI.”

> “Two months. Three-to-one. Or you work for me.”
>>
No. 642231 ID: e114bc

>>642229
What kind of work would it be? Also, for how long?
>>
No. 642232 ID: 05171d
File 143235455044.png - (6.78KB , 900x666 , 7.png )
642232

“Work for you? What does that mean, and for how long?”

> “Oh… let’s say… as long as we need you, and for whatever we need you for. How does that sound?”
>>
No. 642233 ID: e114bc

>>642232
...do we have other options for getting cooking supplies because this sounds like risking being a sex slave or something.
>>
No. 642236 ID: 78a595

>How does that sound?
That sounds a whole lot like bullshit. Also, kind of like slavery.
>>
No. 642237 ID: 05171d
File 143235554426.png - (13.01KB , 900x666 , 8.png )
642237

>>642236

“This… doesn’t sound like a very good deal.”

> “It’s a great deal for us! I’m a man of my word, so let’s get you some supplies, shall we?”

“Uh, I didn’t agree to-”

> “Boys, load up a cart for the pretty lady.”






Shit. Bossman’s gonna love this. Maybe I can get out of this nasty biz somehow.
>>
No. 642238 ID: bd8b82

well, have bossman come with you to the payment time and he just stabs the dude in the face.
>>
No. 642239 ID: e114bc

>>642237
Well you didn't tell them where to deliver it, so... you could just run away. Shady business or not, they're not going to track you down and force you to take their stuff.

On the other hand, do you think you CAN make the money they're asking? You'd want a written contract of course, so they can't just claim at the end of the two months that you owe more than they said.
>>
No. 642240 ID: 78a595

Well, luckily your new church / hospital will make lots of money? ...and you just gave seedy seedy types a lead on that. Bossman will be thrilled.

Maybe he can just kill them if they cause a problem. Although that's using him too.

Geeze, some helpful employee you've turned out to be.
>>
No. 642250 ID: 05171d
File 143235664101.png - (12.36KB , 900x666 , 9.png )
642250

Can I make the money? Sure I can make the money. I mean, who wouldn’t pay for ale that can cure diseases and revitalize the body? I’m picturing a big tavern restaurant. Maybe in the catacombs? Eh, no, too spooky, but I’ll think of something. That’s good money, and we’d pull in more than just poor, sick peasants that way.

>some helpful employee you’ve turned out to be
I know, I know. I was just trying to help. Look, maybe it’s not so bad. I just have to decide: should I take the risk, or run away?
>>
No. 642251 ID: a19cd5

>>642250
If we try to run it's incredibly likely they'll simply grab us and force us to do whatever it is they wanted (lets not dwell on that) anyhow, so we might as well honestly.
>>
No. 642255 ID: 78a595

Take the risk. If you run, they'll probably come after you anyways. Only difference is this way you get the stuff you need up front.
>>
No. 642258 ID: e114bc

Well just get the loan agreement in writing so they can't just straight up kidnap you afterwards.
>>
No. 642304 ID: 39d5a4

Show your ugly face, slavery!
>>
No. 642306 ID: bd8b82

say the in writing part is for your boss. don't want your boss to think you stole it or something.
>>
No. 642514 ID: 05171d
File 143243782605.png - (7.90KB , 900x666 , 10.png )
642514

Huh. I mean, I could probably make a break for it if I tried. I just need to find hole in their-

You know what? Nah. Levna don’t run. I’m gonna do this.

“Yeah, ok, I guess I’ll do it, but I want the deal in writing. No written contract, no money.”

> “Hm. Hmhmhmhm. Hm hm hm ha ha ha ha ha HAHAHA!”

Well, that made me a little uncomfortable, honestly.

> “Oh, silly me, I’ve been sitting in the shadows this whole time.”
>>
No. 642515 ID: 05171d
File 143243784622.png - (10.54KB , 900x666 , 11.png )
642515

> “That’s better. Yeeesss. You’ll get your contract in writing to deliver to this mysterious boss of yours. Do not disappoint me, Levna. Gooth, Lumpo, get down to the loading dock and start piling the supplies onto the cart. Yuri, escort our guest downstairs.”
>>
No. 642516 ID: 05171d
File 143243786323.png - (12.16KB , 900x666 , 12.png )
642516

> “S-sir, yes sir. Right away, sir,” Yuri points the way for me. “Right this way please, miss.”
>>
No. 642517 ID: e114bc

>>642516
Maybe you can persuade him into spilling the beans about just how scummy this joint is. What kind of work would you wind up doing?
>>
No. 642520 ID: 05171d
File 143243886365.png - (10.98KB , 900x666 , 13.png )
642520

“So, what kind of ‘work’ would I be doing here? I mean like, work-work, or work-work?”

> “Iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii’m really kind of not supposed to talk about the offerings-”

“Offerings…? What?”
>>
No. 642521 ID: 05171d
File 143243889375.png - (10.92KB , 900x666 , 14.png )
642521

> “Nope. Nope. Nothing. oh crap oh jeeze dad’s gonna kill me oh gods I suck at this why am I so stupid
>>
No. 642522 ID: 05171d
File 143243890953.png - (11.39KB , 900x666 , 15.png )
642522

> DID I SAY DAD I MEANT BOSS. Oh no… oooooh no, ok bad first day. Bad first day. Please don’t tell my dad
>>
No. 642523 ID: bd8b82

well if you didn't have secrets you wouldn't have to hide them
>>
No. 642526 ID: 334db2

Spill it and I won't.
>>
No. 642527 ID: a2b630

" I won't tell your dad if you quit cutting corners with me, buddy. C'mon, we're gonna be friends, here. You can trust me. "
>>
No. 642530 ID: 78a595

Twist his ear. Literally.
>>
No. 642538 ID: e114bc

>>642522
...is he talking about human sacrifice? Are they going to KILL you if you don't make the money?
>>
No. 642563 ID: a19cd5

>>642523
with a side order of
>>642527
>>
No. 642571 ID: f0a5e4

>>642522
Look, we're not stupid. We know you guys think we're crazy and we can't produce results, and you want to profit from it somehow. Even if that means enslaving me for life.
But that sounds like crazy cult shit. And crazy cult shit never works out.
...wait.
>>
No. 642645 ID: 9e5585

>>642530
in last case, if he doesnt tell you
>>
No. 642646 ID: 39d5a4

Eartwisting works, cults don't.
>>
No. 642647 ID: 78a595

>...is he talking about human sacrifice?
Don't be silly! Of course not.

They're not human.
>>
No. 642648 ID: f9082f

>offerings
They think they need to give an offering to our boss to stop him coming down on them
>>
No. 642819 ID: 05171d
File 143252357690.png - (13.97KB , 900x666 , 16.png )
642819

>twist ear



> “A’heeeeuuueeh ah ahhh yaa”

“Tell me.”

> “O-ok, ok! Let go!”

Wow he literally has a sword.

> “M-my Dad finds girls for a collector’s harem.”

“So I’d be a sex slave. Is that it?”

> “N-n-no not-”

I twist a bit harder. “Who is the collector?”

> “S-some guy named H-H-H-H-Hector”

“You really do suck at this, Yuri,” I let go of his ear.
>>
No. 642820 ID: 05171d
File 143252359552.png - (11.80KB , 900x666 , 17.png )
642820

I finally let him go, and he grinds his teeth, snapping up to a more dignified posture.

> “Hey. I never asked to do this job, ok? I never asked to follow in my Dad’s big dumb footsteps, ok?! I just… I just… I just wanna be a chef!
>>
No. 642821 ID: d58713

>>642820
huh, coincidences. so do I
>>
No. 642822 ID: e114bc

Ask him if he wants to come work for you. You could use an assistant chef. Might make it easier to get the money his dad wants.
>>
No. 642823 ID: 78a595

>I just wanna be a chef!
Test him!

Start comparing recipes and techniques. See if he actually knows anything chef-y.
>>
No. 642837 ID: 05171d
File 143252588063.png - (10.47KB , 900x666 , 18.png )
642837

“Wait, really?”

> “Uh… uh-huh.”

“Huh, so do I. Fact, I’m planning to open up a tavern where I work. Maybe you could work for me!”
>>
No. 642838 ID: 05171d
File 143252591872.png - (11.12KB , 900x666 , 19.png )
642838

> “I… can’t. My Dad says cooking is for women.”

“Well that’s some old crap! In my village, both men and women learn to hunt, fish, and cook.”

> “Well I’m not from your village, ok? If my Dad found out I want to be a chef… well, he’d take me out on a trip to the cliffs and we’d have a little ‘accident’, and that’d be the end of me. Zip. That’s it.”
>>
No. 642841 ID: e114bc

>>642838
Oh alright, best of luck with that then.
>>
No. 642842 ID: bd8b82

and as a rabbit, missing just one son wont be a big deal.

hmmm.. he could 'escort' the shipment to your boss ad say he wants to hang around to make sure his dad gets a return on this investment.
>>
No. 642848 ID: 9e5585

>>642842
yep, best way to go, have him go with you as a form of guaranting that you'll hold your word, plus this could be a chance to prove himself to his dad too
>>
No. 642857 ID: d90668

Well feel free to live the rest of your life being miserable and sad you never tried.

I am following my dreams.

Anyways if you want in let me know and maybe we can fake your death or something.
>>
No. 642858 ID: 78a595

...lie to your dad. Tell him he needs someone 'overseeing' his investment. Then you have an excuse to be there.

As long as he's making money, he won't care to investigate.
>>
No. 642883 ID: 05171d
File 143252968258.png - (9.04KB , 900x666 , 20.png )
642883

“You know, I can think of a way we can make this work. I don’t know how good of a cook you are, but if you’re willing to take that big of a risk just to do it, shucks, I’d go to heck and back to teach you.”

> “Really…?”

“You bet. We can just say that you’re coming along to protect your father’s investment. Yeah, that sounds real manly.”
>>
No. 642884 ID: 05171d
File 143252970823.png - (12.90KB , 900x666 , 22.png )
642884

> For a moment, Yuri looks excited, but it subsides. “I… I can’t. I’m sorry. My Dad would kill me.”

“Hey, whatever. Have fun living the rest of your life wondering why might have been. I don’t need no escort, I ain’t gonna make no funny business.”

I head outside to the loading area.
>>
No. 642885 ID: 05171d
File 143252972653.png - (18.46KB , 900x666 , 23.png )
642885

The two Pilosians, Gooth and Lumpo, are hard at work loading my loan of supplies into a wagon. For a moment, all those troubles just melt away. The toasty smell of barley and the sour, flowery aroma of the hops permeate the air. The bags are fresh woven and neatly stacked, all ready to dump into a nice, big cauldron.

I’m glad I said yes. This is gonna be so good.
>>
No. 642887 ID: bd8b82

remember, measure twice, dump once. don't wanna fuck up.
>>
No. 642888 ID: 78a595

>>642884
Hook, set. He'll be back.
>>
No. 642898 ID: 05171d
File 143253075031.png - (11.96KB , 900x666 , 24.png )
642898

Meanwhile…

*brush* *brush* *brush*

“There you go sweetie. So soft.”

It’s funny I never saw this one around Pernille. Hum. Maybe he is from out of town.
>>
No. 642899 ID: e114bc

>>642898
Maybe you can outright ask where he's from?
>>
No. 642900 ID: bd8b82

ask how a kid like him got mixed up with giant bugs.
>>
No. 642903 ID: 05171d
File 143253158107.png - (12.77KB , 900x666 , 25.png )
642903

> “I don’t really need so much brushing, miss.”

“Of course. I’m sorry. What is your name, dear? Where are you from?”

> “My name is Tino. I’m from Ponsey,” he replies.

“Well that’s not too far off. I am from Pernille, just down the road. How did you end up in this awful old cathedral?”

> “My friends dared me to go in, miss. I said I would go in if they did too, but they got scared and ran off. That’s when the bugs got me.”

“That’s dreadful. So awful, my dear. I am glad that you are ok. My fiancee tells me that you are an orphan.”

> “Yeah, so?”

“I’m an orphan, too.”

> He says nothing.
>>
No. 643047 ID: 05171d
File 143257316442.png - (10.18KB , 900x666 , 26.png )
643047

“Yes, that’s right. I’m an orphan, too. If I didn’t have such fiery hair and a perky bust, I’d be just like you. Sneaking into churches and begging for food. I’m the lucky one, yes I am.”

> “W… what are you talking about! Stop brushing please… you’re hurting me!”

“You must stay beautiful, sweetie. You simply must.”
>>
No. 643055 ID: d3be40

LUCILLE, GET A GRIP.

You're hurting someone again, STOP BRUSHING.
>>
No. 643077 ID: 78a595

>>643047
Geeze, Lucille. Is it so bad to feel good about the parts of your life that went right?
>>
No. 643079 ID: 05171d
File 143257632330.png - (10.66KB , 900x666 , 27.png )
643079

“Oh… oh dear. I’m so sorry. I must still be getting over my recent illness. I didn’t mean to hurt you sweetie.”

>>643077

Sometimes... sometimes I wonder where I would be if I had not caught Arnel's eye, or how much more I would mean to him if I was not lowborn. He likens people like me, young boys and girls of the village, to dogs and hoodlums, and yet he holds me with the tenderness of a lover.

Perhaps I simply need Arnel with me. Sometimes it feels as though I cannot think straight without him here. Is there something wrong with me? Am I helpless, or simply stupid? Oh, what am I saying. I am to be married soon, and to a chief! I cannot be having thoughts like these.

“You should get some more sleep, darling. You are so badly malnourished, but you are looking much better.”

> “Thank you Miss Lucille.”

Well isn’t he sweet. I wonder what gave Arnel the idea that he would be a handful. Maybe it was that Ortise. What a scoundrel that man is. Sometimes I feel he simply doesn’t care one way or another, but at least that means he’s no problem with orphans. My isn’t Tino cute? No, no. I am too young to be thinking of having children. Least of all before marriage. Oh my.
>>
No. 643080 ID: 05171d
File 143257634018.png - (11.77KB , 900x666 , 28.png )
643080

I tuck Tino in on the altar again at the front of the sanctum.

> “Miss Lucille, I’m not tired.”

“I saw you yawn, sweetie. You are in bad condition. You need to sleep until you are well.”

> “Yes Miss Lucille.”


My sweet Arnel is away at the village. Am I alone here at the cathedral? No, I suppose not. Mister Ortise is still here, as is that peculiar ghost. What should I do?
>>
No. 643082 ID: 9e5585

Go talk with the Padre but keep and eye on Tino, make sure he gets his rest
>>
No. 643086 ID: 78a595

>Ortise. What a scoundrel that man is
No gratitude, there? If he had not cleared the vermin from this place you might still be ill. Or worse.

>He likens people like me, young boys and girls of the village, to dogs and hoodlums, and yet he holds me with the tenderness of a lover.
Are you simply more than they were? Or is it a flaw of his character he cannot see the good in them the way he can in you?

>Perhaps I simply need Arnel with me. Sometimes it feels as though I cannot think straight without him here. Is there something wrong with me? Am I helpless, or simply stupid?
Think of it another way. He's not here, but would could you do to be helping him in his absence? Your chief does have an interest, here. You can try to aid him in his goals. You don't have to be helpless or stupid. You can be helpful.

>Mister Ortise is still here, as is that peculiar ghost. What should I do?
You could try talking to one of them. You might learn something that will be useful to Arnel. Start with the ghost, maybe? He's looser with his lips, or lack thereof.
>>
No. 643100 ID: 05171d
File 143257836130.png - (11.10KB , 900x666 , 29.png )
643100

>>643086

>No gratitude there?
Yes, I suppose I do owe Mister Ortise more respect than that, at least for what he did. Arnel just dislikes him so much, I’ve begun to believe it myself.

>Are you simply more than they were? Or is it a flaw of his character he cannot see the good in them the way he can in you?
I don’t know, though I wish I did. Arnel is not wont to be open about his feelings.

>You can be helpful.
I can, and I will. Yes, that is a good idea. I just need to think of some way to help. Arnel will be happy when he arrives back, then.
>>
No. 643101 ID: 05171d
File 143257837469.png - (8.75KB , 900x666 , 30.png )
643101

> talk to the ghost



> “Hello my child! How are you feeling?”

Oh! He’s a friendly man. Or… was, at least. He seems almost out of place.

“I am well Father, thanks to you and Mr. Ortise.”

> “How blessed I am to witness these facilities put to good use so long after my passing. Is there anything I may help you with? I must warn you, I have lost my… agency in this world, but I will do what I can.”
>>
No. 643103 ID: e114bc

Talk to him about your FEELINGS.
>>
No. 643138 ID: bd8b82

he is old, ask if orphans were always seen as second class.
>>
No. 643148 ID: dbe554

Could always discuss things with the priest, he should still be sworn to silence for confessionals and the like.
>>
No. 643177 ID: 39d5a4

>>643103
Oh, feelings. You know the best.
>>
No. 643237 ID: 05171d
File 143260488794.png - (7.29KB , 900x666 , 31.png )
643237

>feelings
“Father, may I confide in you briefly?”

> “Of course! I will admit… I am not the very model of priesthood, but I will gladly lend an ear.”

“Thank you. Well, it is about my fiancee, the chief of Pernille. Do… do you think that we are a good pair?”
>>
No. 643238 ID: 05171d
File 143260490659.png - (7.86KB , 900x666 , 32.png )
643238

> “No one can really answer that question for you. You must answer it yourself.”

“What do you mean?”

> “You must convince yourself yes or no. You may be right, or you may be wrong, but either way, you will be certain with time. When we are wrong, that is how we learn about ourselves.”

“That is not very helpful for me. I’m sorry, father.”

> “Every living person goes through it. It was the will of the Primordial to bestow us with intelligence, and with intelligence, well, this struggle is inherent.”

It is really not what I wanted to hear, but I suppose I really did not know what I wanted to hear. I cannot cloud my head with this before the wedding. It does not bode well, and will probably only bring misfortune.

“Thank you, Father.”

> “I am sorry if I was unhelpful. It is been some time since I have offered counsel.”

“Well, on that subject, I did have one more question. Were orphans always treated so poorly?”

> “Ah, er, unfortunately that has been a constant since I was living. It is another plague of the intelligent mind, which is to look down on others. It is not in our nature to value others as equal. Past, present, and future this will be. When I was serving as a monk here before I attained my priesthood, I spoke with many an orphaned youth. This was only to discover that there was scarce compassion for the lowborn in this world.”

“I see.”

I take a quick look back to the altar to see that Tino is still asleep there. It is so quiet here that sleep would come easily to any of us. The light spilling through the slitted windows illuminating the gentle wisps of dust… The only problem is the smell. It is a combination of a sour, vinegar-like smell and a musty oldness. My guess is that whatever monsters inhabited this place before smelled foul, but now they are gone. Mr. Ortise seems to be cleaning up the mess, er, single-handedly. The people of the village have left, and that does not surprise me. This place needs work, but Pernille is so shorthanded now that the people have left to guard the east.

It is quiet here, and with Tino asleep, there is not much to do. Should I visit Arnel at the village, help Mr. Ortise to clean, or take a walk around the grounds? The sky is clear today, so it does not look like it will rain.
>>
No. 643243 ID: b9cef6

I'm sure Ortise could appreciate the help.

Also, an idea, for your nerves about the marriage. Flip a coin. Heads for yes, marry him. Tails for no.

Are you happy with the result? If no, do the opposite.
>>
No. 643250 ID: d3be40

Take a walk, see if you can find something that Arnel and Ortise missed.
>>
No. 643283 ID: b5b419

>>643238
He basically said it's a complicated question and he doesn't have enough details to help you.

Talk to him about your life while you work. Not the marriage, just... stuff. Try to learn about him too.
>>
No. 643366 ID: 680b49

Hanging out with your husband would be redundant. Help Ortise or take a walk on the path. I would suggest marrying Arnel, as you have a higher chance of being happier later than without marrying him. Also Ortise was disconnected from his family at a young age, so I guess he's sort of like an orphan too. Ortise also prioritized the safety of the young boy earlier, over his own goals. He will help people on the moment, but not make plans for them. Basically, Ortise is a kind and caring guy on the inside, but has a foul mouth, and is rash and selfish most of the time. Just your average person though, in my personal opinion.
>>
No. 643367 ID: 680b49

Also it's better to try something and regret it, rather than not try it and regret it. Think that way for marriage and many future choices. I'm sure you are plenty intelligent, you are only an idiot since you are too busy doubting yourself at the moment, like I do sometimes.
>>
No. 643791 ID: 0b4dd7

solvitur ambulando.
take a walk. the solutions will come.
>>
No. 643804 ID: 05171d
File 143287291329.png - (9.70KB , 900x666 , 33.png )
643804

> take a walk

I suppose I should chance on marrying Arnel. I do love him, really. I am not sure why I am having these feelings of apprehension. Maybe that is normal for a young lady to be wed. I have never had the opportunity to speak with anyone on the subject before, so this is as unfamiliar an endeavor for me as it probably is for Arnel.

I exit the cathedral through the back way and wander down the clearing path toward the northeast. It is a slightly overcast day, but it is not cold. The grass has had time to dry after the recent rains, but I do not mind my feet being a bit wet. I don’t think that Arnel would approve of me walking about on my own and getting myself dirty, but he does not know how much of this kind of exploration I did as a child. There was little else for us to do with no parents and no prospects.

There are bushes here alone the side of the trail, thick and lush with pointed leaves. They are comprised of thorny vines hung at their ends with under-ripe blackberries. In a couple of weeks, these will be succulent and ready to eat. Maybe that Bilk will make them into pies and jam…
>>
No. 643805 ID: 05171d
File 143287292701.png - (9.72KB , 900x666 , 34.png )
643805

HMP-
>>
No. 643807 ID: a19cd5

>>643805
go slack and lean backwards, try to slide under their grip! quickly!!
>>
No. 643809 ID: 2c8505

>>643807
get out of range right after that and gtfo
>>
No. 643818 ID: 05171d
File 143287401348.png - (11.23KB , 900x666 , 35.png )
643818

I lean backwards and manage to wiggle free of my assailant’s grasp!
>>
No. 643820 ID: 05171d
File 143287402597.png - (10.85KB , 900x666 , 36.png )
643820

He grabs hold of my gown shortly after, and I scream with all my might. I can’t go any further, and no one seems to hear!
>>
No. 643822 ID: e114bc

>>643820
Twist and elbow the arms. Scramble away, grab a rock or something, and run. If they catch you again you can give them a whallop.
>>
No. 643830 ID: 05171d
File 143287533064.png - (15.00KB , 900x666 , 37.png )
643830

I bat his arms away, which offers me a few more feet of escape. It forces him to emerge from the bushes and tackle me to the ground. This leaves my mouth free from his grasp to scream for help, but I am too far from the cathedral!

> “Who are you?”

His voice is raspy and muffled. He is pulling my hair and pressing my cheek into the dirt grass. I don’t want to die! Arnel! Ortise! Help me!

I am just out of reach of a fist-sized rock.
>>
No. 643831 ID: a19cd5

>>643830
"WHY ARE YOU ASSAULTING ME I'M JUST AN ORPHAN"
>>
No. 643832 ID: bd8b82

"RAPE!"
>>
No. 643833 ID: 8e0b6a

>>643830
Somehow sense your attacker is a woman, and get confused.

Wait, why are you assaulting me?
>>
No. 643850 ID: e114bc

>>643830
Wait, that looks like one of Basstrid's men doesn't it? Ask what the big deal is. Is the cathedral off-limits now?

I suspect he/she will insist you go first so tell them, as if reminding them, that you're the fiance of the chief, and that you were just taking a walk.
>>
No. 643862 ID: 5d0c55

>>643830
Use ROCK on ASSAILANT
>>
No. 643866 ID: b9cef6

He's wearing a helmet!
Apply rock to assailant's hands, to make him let go! Then, we get help!
>>
No. 643871 ID: 39d5a4

Try to lock his leg with yours and then push your bottom up, then pull your bottom up like curving your back. Then reach for the rock.
>>
No. 643882 ID: 05171d
File 143292062505.png - (30.85KB , 900x666 , ACTION MUSIC.png )
643882

I twist and roll enough to get one leg free and drive myself forward a few inches.

> “Answer me!”

I can’t imagine what kind of sounds are coming out of my mouth.

> “Why are you here?! I said answer me!”
>>
No. 643883 ID: 05171d
File 143292064988.png - (6.54KB , 900x666 , 38.png )
643883

> looks like one of Basstrid’s men
I haven’t been able to get a good look at him!

>hit hands with rock
I can’t turn around enough to get decent aim…!

> use rock
>>
No. 643884 ID: 05171d
File 143292066634.png - (13.24KB , 900x666 , 39.png )
643884

The rock impacts with a surreal click like a breaking vial, and the assailant jerks away with a yelp. This last just long enough for me to scramble free and break into a run.
>>
No. 643885 ID: 05171d
File 143292068510.png - (14.95KB , 900x666 , 40.png )
643885

WAAAH

> “I don’t mean to frighten you, young lady-”

“Help me! Or move! Just go, please!”

> “Please calm down. I do hope that my companion here did not harm you.”
>>
No. 643886 ID: b9cef6

Gesture frantically in a way which clearly ilustrates "Motherfucker jumped me from inside a bush!"
>>
No. 643887 ID: 88960e

Companion. He said companion. They're together. And worse, they have a sword.

Your companion attacked me!
>>
No. 643888 ID: bd8b82

"oh god, is this one of those kidnapping things?"
>>
No. 643889 ID: 39d5a4

Maybe grabbing the sword with distress rushing in you wouldn't be such a bad idea to give you "leverage".
>>
No. 643892 ID: 05171d
File 143292373603.png - (11.01KB , 900x666 , 41.png )
643892

“Your companion lunged from the bushes and accosted me!”

> “Oh dear. I am terribly sorry about that. You see, I was surveying the area before I heard this commotion. Accept my apologies twice over, as your garb suggests that you are of gentle birth. Milady, how may I help?”

“Sir, is this a kidnapping?”

> “A kidnapping?! Of course not!”

“You keep peculiar company for one who does not wish to kidnap young girls, if I may be frank.”

> “Again, I will make this up to you now, and ensure that my companion here does not rough handle you any further, milady.”
>>
No. 643894 ID: b9cef6

Well that's great and all, but why, exactly, did he tackle me? Why are you people here?
>>
No. 643895 ID: 05171d
File 143292476337.png - (11.12KB , 900x666 , 42.png )
643895

> “I am here in search of the magic cathedral of healing. I’ve only heard lore and talk of it thusfar, however it has come from a number of sources of varying repute. I have been a fighter of brigands and bandits for years, you see, but the effort seems futile when I could be aiding the common folk on a grander scale.”

“Well, ok, but what about him?” I ask, pointing to the armored assailant, now squatting next to the bushes.

> “As for him, well… he has not been very talkative, my lady, and he actually took a rather different route to get here than I did. In that way, perhaps you could scarce call us traveling companions at all, but rather two ambivalent strangers sharing a common destination. For his purpose, I’m afraid you’ll have to take it up with him yourself. I assure you with my own sword that you will not be harmed.”
>>
No. 643897 ID: e114bc

>>643895
Stomp over and confront the other guy. Maybe angrily introduce yourself, tell him he's in big freakin' trouble.
>>
No. 643899 ID: 05171d
File 143292582333.png - (8.04KB , 900x666 , 43.png )
643899

“You had better believe that my betrothed will hear of this. He is the chief of Pernille, and will have your head on a pike for accosting me that way!”

> “There is a very old church near here,” says the armored one, seemingly ignoring my threat. “Don’t you know how dangerous it is? Why are you walking around here?”

“It is actually rather safe. You know, when people are not jumping out of the bushes.”

There is a bit more rustling in the bushes a ways to my right, but I am fixated on the armored man. I can see one of his eyes through the broken goggle focusing on me.
>>
No. 643900 ID: 39d5a4

Ok the guy is just generally... weird, not angry or hostile. Tell them who you are, show them to the cathedral, they're customers. But you must make the assailant make amendments to his assault before entering the famed building. Say, walk around the building 100 times.
>>
No. 643902 ID: 05171d
File 143292664953.png - (11.03KB , 900x666 , 44.png )
643902

“I can show you back to the cathedral, if you wish. Both of you. The staff is currently rather disbursed at the moment, but if you do need healing services or a bit of food, I am certain that accommodations can be made.”

> “That would be splendid, milady,” says the man with the sword.

> “Y-you mean there are people there?”

“Well, yes. Mister Ortise rid it of the monsters and the curse-”

> “Ortise? ORTISE? ORTISE TOOK THE CATHEDRAL?!” The armored stranger begins to shake and breathe heavily.

What… what is happening here.
>>
No. 643903 ID: e114bc

>>643902
Ask him where he's heard of the cultist before. You weren't aware he was known anywhere else.
>>
No. 643904 ID: b9cef6

Ask him that thing you just thought.
>>
No. 643905 ID: a19cd5

>>643902
yes, that one-armed bastard yet at a cripple he saved just a few hours ago, he's probably still lurking around feeling guilty about it.
>>
No. 643906 ID: a19cd5

>>643905
yelled, fuck
>>
No. 643908 ID: 39d5a4

Confirm what the man is in disbelief of. Yes, Ortise.
>>
No. 643912 ID: d3be40

Offhandedly comment about how he did it with only one arm. Literally. Because his brother Rufio cut off the other one.
>>
No. 643916 ID: 05171d
File 143292968575.png - (7.38KB , 900x666 , 45.png )
643916

“Why yes, that is right. Mister Ortise valiantly rid the place of its plague of beasts, and with only one arm with which to fight! Why does it matter to you?”
>>
No. 643917 ID: 05171d
File 143292970545.png - (12.64KB , 900x666 , 46.png )
643917

> “What? One arm? The White Dragon has captured this place and he has lost an arm? HOW DID HE KNOW TO COME HERE?”

“He came to my village asking for help to save a young orphan trapped in the cathedral-”

> “You don’t UNDERSTAND! WE MUST FLEEEEEEEE-”


The swordsman and I look on in confusion, but before either of us can inquire, a noise like scraping stone echoes from the woods. A flock of crows stirs from the trees, rising to the sky…
>>
No. 643918 ID: 05171d
File 143292972344.png - (13.39KB , 900x666 , 47.png )
643918

>>
No. 643925 ID: e114bc

>>643917
He's not the White Dragon tho.

>>643918
Who the fuck? Ask who that is. If it's aggressive go get help.
>>
No. 643927 ID: f262c4

Try to make sure to mention that the Ortise you're speaking of isn't the White Dragon. Be very wary of this new, mysterious visitor!
>>
No. 643928 ID: 8e0b6a

He's not white or a dragon, I think. He's just a man.

>>643918
Um. Is he with you?
>>
No. 643932 ID: 39d5a4

Keep a safe distance no matter what, this guy looks like he's somehow off.
>>
No. 643934 ID: 05171d
File 143293163477.png - (15.65KB , 900x666 , 48.png )
643934

“Mister Ortise has never been called a white dragon-”

> “What? He is known far and wide as the protector of Als Eyvor!”

“Wh-who is that?”

> “Als Eyvor is a place! What are you talking about?”

“No! I mean THAT? Is he with you?”

> “You should run.”
>>
No. 643936 ID: 05171d
File 143293166993.gif - (70.48KB , 900x666 , goodbadugly.gif )
643936

[ANIMATED]
>>
No. 643937 ID: bd8b82

FLEEEEEE
>>
No. 643939 ID: 8e0b6a

Tactical retreat! Go tell someone in the church what's happening. That's useful!
>>
No. 643956 ID: 39d5a4
File 143293483324.gif - (303.28KB , 500x281 , garbodor-goty-forever.gif )
643956

Avoid plasma, sharp flying objects and charging friendlies!
>>
No. 643958 ID: 39d5a4

Also, don't look
>>
No. 643977 ID: 05171d
File 143293905994.png - (6.49KB , 900x666 , 49.png )
643977

I rush back inside and away from the ensuing fray and the eruption of screams and cries. Inside is hardly quiet anymore, either.

> “Damn it damn it damn it damn it DAMN IT!”

It is Mr. Ortise, and he is in the room where that terrible smell is coming from.
>>
No. 643978 ID: 05171d
File 143293907879.png - (15.02KB , 900x666 , 50.png )
643978

There he stands amidst the mess left by the monsters, struggling to use a broom and dust pan with just one arm.

> “Son of a bitch! COME ON! This shouldn’t be this FUCKING HARD!”

I cannot help but cringe at his language, but at least it has not awakened Tino.
>>
No. 643979 ID: e114bc

>>643978
Tell him about the fight, also that you'll take over the cleaning.
>>
No. 643984 ID: 8e0b6a

Mister Ortise, there's a battle outside! You must hurry, quickly!

...are you a dragon, by the way?
>>
No. 644000 ID: b88e47

"Battle outside, we need your help. Two guys are fighting some .... thing. I'm not sure who to help out."
>>
No. 644001 ID: bd8b82

at least he has a somewhat good reason to be that upset.
>>
No. 644004 ID: d3be40

Tell Ortise that a crazy Basstrid soldier, his entourage, some giant superhero, Levna and HER two hired superheroes are going to rip apart all semblance of dignity in the most psychotic deathmatch you've ever seen!

Apparently, one of your relatives has some serious weight. The Basstrid soldier started hyperventilating the moment you told her that an Ortise took over the Cathedral - something about a White Dragon, or whatever.

Ortise needs to defuse the situation before the casualties utterly destroy his reputation! Good news is, there's enough healing nanomachines for everyone...
>>
No. 644019 ID: 05171d
File 143295750403.png - (12.86KB , 900x666 , 52.png )
644019

Shit. Damn it. Just trying to sweep my damn floor, can’t even use a damn dustpan and some hooligans and knuckleheads gotta try and bust in here.

“Stay inside. Don’t worry about cleaning up - just make sure that the kid stays in here, and tell anyone who comes from the village to stay away.”

> “Y-yes Mr. Ortise,” says Lucille.

“You’ve done very well today. Thanks for your help, Lucy.”

Alright, let’s see what we’re dealing with…
>>
No. 644020 ID: 05171d
File 143295752326.png - (27.26KB , 1000x800 , 51.png )
644020

HOLY SHIT. I turn my damn head for fifteen got-dam minutes…
>>
No. 644021 ID: bd8b82

ask your rabbit who you are trying to kill.
>>
No. 644022 ID: 9297f4

Cut that middle bitch with the sword arm. Maybe you can use it for your stump.
>>
No. 644023 ID: e114bc

>>644020
Can we even stab that stone dude?
>>
No. 644071 ID: 57d76a

"WHAT THE FUCK IS ALL THIS"

the lack of punctuation is very important
>>
No. 644163 ID: b30ade

>>644071
first stop and yell at bunny:
"WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK IS GOING ON HERE?!"
then ran into fight the bad guys yelling
"GODS FUCKING DAMMIT YOU GUYS!"
>>
No. 644309 ID: b88e47

Attempt to break up the fight and ask what the fuck is going on.
>>
No. 644410 ID: ed37ab

try to figure out just what the heck is going on. who are these people, and why are they fighting each other, and who's the rabbit?
>>
No. 644500 ID: 05171d
File 143318376698.png - (16.79KB , 900x666 , 53_orig.png )
644500

“LEVNA! What in the fuck is going on?”

> “I dunno bossm’n! I saw Lucille out here talking to some folks and-”

Levna ducks as a small chip of stone flies over her head.

> “and that big Pilosian guy showed up and started frickin’ everyone’s day up! I got here with my two escorts from the… from the uh… public library, and they jumped into the fight. I don’t know who’s who and who’s fightin’ whom!”
>>
No. 644501 ID: 2e88a5

It's looks like everyone else is against the big sword-armed guy at the moment. Taking him down might put an end to the fighting.
>>
No. 644507 ID: e114bc

>>644500
Take out the big guy everyone else is fighting.
>>
No. 644509 ID: ed37ab

you can probably take levna's word for it. go after the big pilosian!
>>
No. 644511 ID: 05171d
File 143319298511.png - (10.64KB , 900x666 , 54.png )
644511

> attack center Pilosian

I ready Ol’ Freehand and steady myself for a vicious lunge.
>>
No. 644512 ID: 05171d
File 143319299736.png - (9.84KB , 900x666 , 55.png )
644512

With the force of my entire body, I drive the sword’s point at the aggressor in a strike set to sting the life oou of an opponent of any size or strength.
>>
No. 644513 ID: 05171d
File 143319301114.png - (14.85KB , 900x666 , 56.png )
644513

*tsnk*
>>
No. 644515 ID: ed37ab

pull a 'star wars snow speeder ties up the imperial walker' move with a length of rope around the pilosian's legs
>>
No. 644516 ID: 8e0b6a

Take a step back, miffed.

Huh, that's annoying.

Looks like you're gonna half to aim for the eye slit, there. Hope it's got a brain or something vulnerable in there.

>my two escorts from the… from the uh… public library
Pff.

Be sure to ask what books she got, later. Half the fun of blatantly obvious lies is watching people squirm.
>>
No. 644517 ID: e114bc

Yeah, I was worried about that. That's why I asked if you could even stab these guys. I take it you never fought a Pilosian before. Is that strip of black on the head also stone? If these guys are just solid stone that can move around because MAGIC then you're not going to get anywhere with that rapier.

You'd be better off trying to use one of the dead Pilosian's arms as a weapon.
>>
No. 644518 ID: 2e88a5

This situation calls for blunt weaponry. Look around for something you can use as a club. Go for the knees to disable it.
>>
No. 644522 ID: 05171d
File 143319655279.png - (14.43KB , 900x666 , 57.png )
644522

WAH HA!

I’ve never fought a Pilosian before, and this one is very fast. More skilled than the average Pilosian, by my guess. He contorts his body in a surreal way, taking a heavy swipe at my body with his blade arm. I do a partial split to evade it.
>>
No. 644523 ID: 05171d
File 143319657258.png - (9.59KB , 900x666 , 58.png )
644523

KUR-SHLACK

A flying hunk of andesite strikes the Pilosian in the head, chipping its cranium. He does not wail or shout in pain, remaining silent during the fight.
>>
No. 644524 ID: 05171d
File 143319658632.png - (8.94KB , 900x666 , 59.png )
644524

Levna has resumed slinging stones!
>>
No. 644525 ID: 05171d
File 143319660104.png - (14.97KB , 900x666 , 60.png )
644525

KLACK. Another stone strikes him in the side.

> go for the eye

I jab Ol’ Freehand into the Pilosian’s eye-strip, which is indeed a softer part with the consistency of thick mud. He grabs my blade, trying to pull it out, but his hand only slides futilely down its length. The stone-like flesh around its face begins to discolor like a bruise.
>>
No. 644526 ID: e114bc

>>644525
Yank the hilt to the side to use his hand as a pivot, so that you wind up gouging a larger wound in his eye.

Watch out for a possible flailing counter-attack with his free sword arm.
>>
No. 644553 ID: 9ddf68

>>644525
I'd suggest pull your blade back out and taking a step back and to the side, looks like the big guy is going to try and stab you with his blade hand again. As for a plan of attack, keep stabbing wherever there's a hole in his "armor" and stepping back away before he can retaliate. If Levna is going to be kind enough to keep making holes for you to stab I say use that to your advantage.
>>
No. 644569 ID: d3be40

I'd say "twist the blade" but (A) it's a rapier and (B) the mail slot is too thin to twist a flat blade anyway.

Don't risk an explosion, run away and let Levna headshot them repeatedly!
>>
No. 644570 ID: 334db2

Watch out for that blade arm thing.
>>
No. 644583 ID: ed37ab

holy heck, run away, you just stabbed it in the eye! get out of there before he decapitates you, run back to the cathedral.
>>
No. 644598 ID: 82c018

Nice; now pull back before he stabs you or damages your sword. (Amusingly the latter might actually be the bigger risk since we don't have a magic fountain of sword repair.)
>>
No. 644661 ID: bd8b82

rememeber, with the fountain you can take almost
anything that isn't very rapidly deadly
>>
No. 644731 ID: c01a15
File 143326727083.png - (18.69KB , 900x666 , 61.png )
644731

Undisturbed by his injury the Pilosian makes a savage swipe at me. A second’s delay in jumping back, and I might have lost my other hand! It hurts, but it’s nothing worse than what the weevil’s gave me! He turns his head to look away, and at first I assume him to be shielding his eye…
>>
No. 644732 ID: c01a15
File 143326728582.png - (21.87KB , 900x666 , 62.png )
644732

The stranger in the cape and armor has slipped away into the woods, and the Pilosian immediately turns to pursue. It’s clear that that’s who he’s after. He disappears into the vines, leaving me with Levna, the other Pilosian, and rapier-bearing stranger.
>>
No. 644733 ID: 88960e

Size up other stranger, see if he's gonna be a problem.

Then ask what the hell is going on and how you're supposed to stop one of those.
>>
No. 644735 ID: ed37ab

ask the other stranger what on earth is going on?

ask levna what is going on?

if neither of them know, go back to what is now the orphanage. maybe send one of the orphans for the locksmith mentioned in >>627343
>>
No. 644737 ID: ed37ab

>>644735

that is, ahem, http://tgchan.org/kusaba/questarch/res/625675.html#i627343

since i know you're dying to do building maintenance right now. also when is NOT a good time to see what's behind that weird locked door?
>>
No. 644738 ID: bd8b82

well then, let's clean up. see what our rabbity friend has. who the stranger is and if anyone knows wtf.
>>
No. 644741 ID: c01a15
File 143327176331.png - (11.28KB , 900x666 , 63.png )
644741

>wtf

I start with the stranger, since Levna seemed just as clueless as I am when I spoke with her during the fight.

> “Now that that unpleasant business has ended, I wish to introduce myself. My name is Irmano Disotto, first of my name, and I am an errant enemy of scoundrels and villains. I am in search of a great place of healing in this area, along with its leader.”

“Well, you’ve found it, and you’ve found him as well.”

> “Splendid! Where is he?”

“It is me. I am Enzo Ortise, the proprietor of this hospital.”

> “There… seems to be something of a mix-up, sir. I am in search of the true proprietor, and I will not suffer any ruse from a crow wearing black. You have the look of a cultist, you see, and that look is of evil and hedonism, not of peace and health.”
>>
No. 644742 ID: bd8b82

"wow, judgemental much? ask levna, the bunny over there."
>>
No. 644743 ID: 334db2

If you don't believe me, just get the hell of my lawn. I don't feel the need to justify myself to a stranger who drags a fight into my front yard and terrorizes my patients, I've got enough on my plate.
>>
No. 644744 ID: 88960e

Former cultist, bub. And I'm not a healer by trade, myself. I just run the place.

Feel free to believe what you want. Talk to some of the people we've helped.

Why were you fighting that thing on my doorstep? And what about the guy who got chased off?
>>
No. 644745 ID: e114bc

>>644741
Sigh heavily and say you guess you might want to change your wardrobe if that's going to be everyone's first impression.
>>
No. 644750 ID: 9ddf68

Say it's the only thing you have to wear and you figured it would be better to look like this then walk around naked all day. Also that thing seemed to go after his friend, should we be worried about and maybe do something or does that guy have it under control? Because it might not be a bad idea to maybe, oh I don't know, help him.
>>
No. 644752 ID: 2e88a5

You really need to get some new clothes. Tell him about how you gave up your life as a cultist and clear out the chapel, making its healing water available to all.
>>
No. 644931 ID: c01a15
File 143332018022.png - (112.69KB , 900x666 , 64.png )
644931

I am honestly not sure if helping this weird man’s weird friend is worth my time and effort, especially with that terrifying Pilosian stalking around the woods. I need to make a decision on that.

>change of clothes.
I sigh deeply. Ladies really dig this black-on-black ensemble, but it is technically a cult uniform. I’ll have to drop some of my earnings from the first wave of patients on a new wardrobe. This has a lot of holes in it from fighting, anyway.

“If you don’t believe me, that’s fine. Ask anyone I’ve treated, and they’ll tell you I cleared this place out. You can even ask my friend Levna over there.”

Levna waves, hearing her name. The Pilosian that she was with is helping her haul whatever was in that cart up into the cathedral. I will have to address that ‘public library’ trip later.

> “Hm… if you have such conviction about it, then perhaps I have misjudged you. Forgive me, sir, for being wary. The roads crossing this land are not kind, and one cannot afford to be trusting in the face of potential danger.”
>>
No. 644932 ID: e114bc

Speaking of potential danger tell him you're going to hunt down the Pilosian. If he wants to help, he can help.
>>
No. 644970 ID: 87695f

>>644931
speaking of potential danger, shouldn't he chase after the VILLAN that is currently chasing after that armoured fellow?
>>
No. 644973 ID: 88960e

Speaking of danger, why the hell was that thing chasing your friend? You don't seem very worried.
>>
No. 644993 ID: c01a15
File 143335313184.png - (59.46KB , 900x666 , 65.png )
644993

> “Erk… very well. We can go after them, but once we find them, we must get straight exactly which of them is the villain. I suspect someone owes someone or other some money.”
>>
No. 644994 ID: c01a15
File 143335315068.png - (125.87KB , 900x666 , 66.png )
644994

We strike out through the vines where the Pilosian leapt through. I did not take any time to heal the cut in my arm, but it is not that deep. There is a large clearing here with the river in view, but there is no sign of the Pilosian or the armored man - no footprints, no stirring animals, and no disturbed underbrush.

“That is a magnificent sword. Where did you get it?”

> “A Swordsmith named Puvulo Prosno in Als Eyvor made it for me as a gift.”

“No shit? Prosno made my sword, too. Are you from the south end of the city?”

> “No. I only worked there for a time.”

We walk further toward the river, then a bit to the north with no sign of danger.
>>
No. 645008 ID: 9ddf68

ask the guy what he knows of his partner? he doesn't really seem to mind to much that he might be in trouble, which means that guy really knows how to take care of himself or that Erk and the other guy didn't really care much for each other.
>>
No. 645009 ID: e114bc

>>644994
Eh, try south?
>>
No. 645013 ID: c01a15
File 143335976851.png - (117.49KB , 900x666 , 67.png )
645013

>try south
The Pilosian ran to the northwest after the armored guy. It’s possible that they could have rounded south by now, but…

We arrive at a clearing to our first clue. Son of a bitch. There is a puddle of fresh blood in the grass, and no signs of anyone.

“What do you know about this guy you were with?”

> “Very little, sir. Very little. I mentioned that I was in search of the cathedral in this region where you had been performing your healing, and he followed me thereafter. Well… not followed, per se, but he did seem to be going in the same direction. He was injured in a fight that we had with a couple of highwaymen, so perhaps he was simply searching for healing as well.”

“That doesn’t add up much, but if he happens to be crazy, not much will I suspect.”

> “Oh, there was one more thing. I had a bit of a… run-in with an innkeeper up to the north. That stranger - Crus was his name - talked to the innkeep and had me thrown out. That was after he went on raving about a Pilosian at the inn. I just called him crazy, but maybe he wasn’t so.”

“Well, good chance he didn’t make it judging by this blood, but where’s the body?”
>>
No. 645015 ID: e114bc

Blood trail continues. Follow it. If we're quick we can recover Crus and heal him.
>>
No. 645016 ID: bd8b82

let's follow it as longas we can, be wary of ambushes
>>
No. 645021 ID: 9ddf68

well that's that... yup nothing more we can do... probably already dead... or just hurt... and needs help... god damnit we're going to have to save the crazy bastard now, or at least make sure he's dead. doesn't sit right with me know there's someone out there that could help and chose to do nothing, I mean if we did that we'd probably be just like the chief.
>>
No. 645044 ID: d3be40

Stick together but not too close. Look around for tracks and call out for Crus. You can handle the enemy, but if you don't get to Crus soon they might bleed out.
>>
No. 645045 ID: 2c029d

hey that orphan kid lost more blood than that and survived, lets just hope this crazy guy has a better attitude then that little shit
>>
No. 645075 ID: b9d767

>>642054
I keep seeing this around, what is it even from?
>>
No. 645080 ID: 2c029d

>>645075
http://tgchan.org/wiki/Pok%C3%A9monQuest
http://www.tgchan.org/wiki/Steve%27d
>>
No. 645081 ID: 39d5a4

How much blood is there exactly? Are you sure he died after losing that much? Does it look like something took the body and dragged it into a dangerous place?
>>
No. 645302 ID: 3a444d

>>645013
Too bad the healing water only works on cathedral grounds. Get ready to rip apart your already torn clothing for impromptu bandages Ortise, and make it there quick.
>>
No. 645343 ID: c01a15
File 143343879143.png - (73.91KB , 900x666 , 68.png )
645343

There was a decent amount of blood, but it does make me think of the orphan kid. He sure lost a lot, but was able to recover. This might be a different scenario, though, depending on how gross the injury is. The trail goes cold at the bank of the river, and the blood drops end here. Disotto calls out to a couple of Bilk fishing in the river.

> “Hoy, folks, did you see anyone pass by here?”

> “Nay. No one, but we hain’t been lookin’ at the bank much. Mighta missed ‘em.”

> “There is blood here on the bank,” says Disotto, “we have reason to believe an injured fellow ran by here.”

> “Grim business, sir!” They continue to fish.
>>
No. 645345 ID: bd8b82

why is a net sitting there by itself? is it held by rocks? if not then check it.
>>
No. 645348 ID: c01a15
File 143343980115.png - (110.67KB , 900x666 , 69.png )
645348

It looks like the net is set up for them to deposit the fish that they catch. Nothing suspicious about it. I can’t really see a way to go next, and it’s actually pretty fucking scary that they disappeared so fast.
>>
No. 645349 ID: ed37ab

that's weird. why would the bilk have reason to lie?
>>
No. 645350 ID: bd8b82

looks like we need to split up, one goes upstream the other down.
>>
No. 645351 ID: c01a15
File 143344019106.png - (45.67KB , 900x666 , 70.png )
645351

“We can cover a bit more ground if we split up. Can I trust you?”

> Disotto looks at me strangely. “If I can trust you, then yes.”

Hm. Well, what way should I go? North toward Als Eyvor, or south toward the Cathedral?
>>
No. 645352 ID: ed37ab

go south toward the cathedral. if you don't find anything, at least he'll know where to find you.
>>
No. 645353 ID: bd8b82

south
>>
No. 645361 ID: c01a15
File 143344231029.png - (118.52KB , 900x666 , 71.png )
645361

I go south. There’s no one here, and this is really starting to feel like a waste of-
>>
No. 645362 ID: c01a15
File 143344233552.png - (118.09KB , 900x666 , 72.png )
645362

> “You need to just stay calm. You’re going to be alright. Drink this.”

> “LEAVE ME ALONE! LET GO! HELP ME! SOMEONE HELP ME!”

> “If you panic, you’re going to die. Simple as that. Calm down. It’s not that bad- ah! Hey, stop that.”


I arrive at the spot where I originally met Levna down the river. There are two voices, both of them familiar.
>>
No. 645363 ID: ed37ab

stay hidden, and investigate!
>>
No. 645365 ID: 9ddf68

well let's go see what that's all about, try not to be seen if you can help it.
>>
No. 645367 ID: e114bc

>>645362
Try to investigate without being seen. Crus panicked the last time she saw you, don't want to go making things worse.
>>
No. 645371 ID: c01a15
File 143344400790.png - (147.46KB , 900x666 , 73.png )
645371

> “Good grief, how in the heck did you get so beat up?”

> “GET OFF! GET OFF! LET ME GO!”

> “Shh. Almost done. Just hold freakin’ still.”
>>
No. 645373 ID: a19cd5

ok get in there and help. "uuuh, you ok?"
>>
No. 645374 ID: 9ddf68

walk out, and ask what's happening. Also where did the big stone guy go?
>>
No. 645376 ID: ed37ab

just watch for a minute!
>>
No. 645377 ID: e114bc

>>645371
If she sees you she'll probably freak out. Help restrain her, ask who the hell she is and why she has so many scars.
>>
No. 645380 ID: bd8b82

help the doc out. but those stitches will need to come out once we drag their ass back to the church.
>>
No. 645381 ID: c01a15
File 143344564479.png - (133.36KB , 900x666 , 74.png )
645381

I walk out into the clearing.

> “Oh, it’s you,” says Jaco, “you said you’ve got healing water, right?”

“Yeah, but it only works in the walls of the church. Can I help here?”

> “Yeah. Go get me a stretcher. If we’re gonna bring her to the church, we’re gonna need a bigger on than we’ve got.”

“I thought you said you didn’t want to use the healing water. And you mean him, right?”

> “No, I mean her. Did I ask for an argument, or did I ask for a damn stretcher?”
>>
No. 645382 ID: e114bc

>>645381
Alright, but he/she's probably gonna try to run. Also, their attacker is still probably out here, we have to take care of it first. Ask where the Pilosian went. Is it dead?
>>
No. 645385 ID: bd8b82

should probbaly tie them up a little too.
>>
No. 645388 ID: ed37ab

well, you don't have a stretcher ready to go, but you can at least find a blanket to carry them in like a sling.
>>
No. 645389 ID: c01a15
File 143344712182.png - (64.65KB , 900x666 , 75.png )
645389

“Did you see any signs of a Pilosian around here?”

> “I saw Levna walking by with one pulling a cart. That’s it.”

Well, that made my ass clinch up a tiny bit. The other Pilosian as probably still at large, and it moves quicker and quieter than any other one I’ve ever seen.
>>
No. 645390 ID: c01a15
File 143344714356.png - (157.78KB , 900x666 , 76.png )
645390

I find a couple of blankets at the cathedral and combine them with sturdy sticks to form a stretcher. We tie Crus down tightly, which alone was not easy to do. If he wasn’t injured, it might not have been possible. Since I can’t carry a stretcher with one arm, I enlist the help of the chief and Lucille to carry the bound patient in the back door. All the while, I keep a wary eye out for that Pilosian.

At the very mention of healing water, Crus begins to scream and thrash. Now that I see him up close, he looks to be badly emaciated and in pain from a slash to the back.
>>
No. 645392 ID: e114bc

>>645390
Oh my god. Tell Crus to calm down and you'll demonstrate its effects on yourself. It's not a drug or anything. Also ask why they're freaking out so badly in the first place.
>>
No. 645396 ID: c2fb88

Tell them to quit panicking and drench them with the water. Once they are healed maybe you will be able to get there story out of them.
>>
No. 645399 ID: 334db2

Is she allergic to magic or something?
>>
No. 645401 ID: 9ddf68

ask her/him WHY they don't want to be healed.
>>
No. 645404 ID: bd8b82

god, they are the most unhelp patient ever. heal them an tie them to the bed until they calm the fuck down.
>>
No. 645412 ID: c01a15
File 143345216912.png - (187.17KB , 900x666 , 77.png )
645412

This is fucking bothersome. I’ve never seen anyone panic this way, let alone with the healing water. Nothing suggests that it does not work on him, as it does its job completely. In fact, he squirmed less while we were removing Jaco’s stitches, and it was only when we applied the water that he began to kick and thrash again.
>>
No. 645413 ID: c01a15
File 143345219327.png - (97.30KB , 900x666 , 78.png )
645413

He is just kind of sitting there shaking. I wave my hand in front of his face, and his eye doesn’t follow it.

“Hey.”

Nothing. I decide to soften it up a little bit.

“Y’alright there bud? You had a little freakout there.”

> Crus takes some slow, labored breaths. “They took it,” he says. “I played dead like a coward.”

> “You played dead like a reasonable person,” says Jaco, looking around the cathedral with distaste. “It saved your life.”
>>
No. 645414 ID: a599c3

>>645390
Right well, get him in and give him some water then. Im sure we dont need to guide you through this.
>>
No. 645416 ID: d40861

>>645413
"whatever it was couldnt be as important as your life "
>>
No. 645417 ID: 334db2

Took what?
>>
No. 645419 ID: c2fb88

Took what? That stick you had?
>>
No. 645421 ID: 9ddf68

ask her, what exactly, is wrong. WHY is she panicking, why doesn't she want our help, Why did she come here in the first place when it seem like she doesn't went to be even a 1000 miles close to this place?
>>
No. 645435 ID: c01a15
File 143345424357.png - (112.85KB , 900x666 , 79.png )
645435

“What did they take from you, exactly?”

> “Nothing. Never mind.”

“Well then why are you panicking so much? You know this water heals, right?”

> “Yes. I know. I said never mind.”

“What kind of answer is that? And why is it that you even came here if it seems like you’d rather be a thousand miles away?”

> “This is where I wanted to be. I… really just wasn’t counting on being followed. I don’t know how they tracked me. Now everything is ruined, and it’s all my fault."
>>
No. 645437 ID: bd8b82

if someone is hunting you, you kill them, then they can't hunt you any more.

ah, but where are my manners, i am ortise.
>>
No. 645442 ID: ab7529

Did anyone let the dude who went north know we found her? If not, we should send someone after him. No need to leave him searching all day.
>>
No. 645444 ID: c2fb88

Well if everything is ruined then its not worth worrying about anymore. Lets get some food into you and maybe you can calm down and tell me whats going on.
>>
No. 645446 ID: 334db2

You owe a better explanation than that.
>>
No. 645451 ID: c01a15
File 143345762819.png - (146.06KB , 900x666 , 80.png )
645451

“You owe us a better explanation than that.”

> “I don’t owe you anything.”

“We saved your life.”

> “Why?”

Damn it!

“Because it was the decent fucking thing to do than anyone who isn’t a goddamned antisocial nutjob would do. Is that good enough?”

> Crus pauses, and his posture softens up a bit. “I’m sorry,” he says, “it’s just that everyone I have trusted even a little bit has turned me in. I can’t take the risk anymore.”

“Hey, that’s fair. I wouldn’t trust me right away if I was in your position, but since I run this place, I’ve got a duty to ask if you’ve put us in any danger.”

> “Great danger. I have put you in great danger.”

“Then tell me why we are in danger. Maybe we can fuckin’ do something about it. Ever consider that?”

> “I can’t tell you everything. I’m sorry. You’ve been kind, but I just can’t. I’ve gone through too much to protect this secret already to just give it up. All I’ll say is this: watch your back. Watch this place. Fortify it and defend it if you are brave, but abandon it if you’re smart.”

“I have a duty to these people to help-”

> “No, you don’t. You’re telling yourself you do because you’ve have some kind of fantasy of power and nobility to live out or something. Maybe you’re making up for something you did in the past. Maybe you’re just full of yourself. I don’t know. All I know is that you don’t owe these people anything, and if it meant your life, you’d let them all die. They’d do the same for you. Better to just preserve yourself while you can.”

Abar, Lucille, Jaco, and the padre all look on silently.
>>
No. 645454 ID: ab7529

If I was the kind of person who turned aside to save his own skin, I'd still have both arms.

We'll do what we have to do. You can stay or run as you will.
>>
No. 645455 ID: d40861

>>645451
"eh. I'll cop to that. everyone's got ambitions. I'm not gonna stop because of some danger though. I've earned a chance to do some real good with what I've found here and I'm willing to fight for that."

waggle arm stump for emphathis.
>>
No. 645456 ID: e114bc

>>645451
...this has to do with the locked door, doesn't it? That's the only thing of importance here that could involve something Crus was carrying- he had the key. Well, we have a third choice. Break through the walls instead of the door. Take whatever's inside that's the source of this conflict, and either run away with it or, if it's some kind of weapon, use it to defend the cathedral.

But first and foremost, state that you are not going to just run. She's right in that you have dreams of making a name for yourself. You're not going to just abandon it because of some nebulously defined danger.

If it's really seriously dangerous, we could use Basstrid to defend the cathedral. Leave it, hide out nearby, and have the chief tell Basstrid about the healing font. He'll want to claim it for his own use, and station guards. Well, that assumes Basstrid isn't on the same side as whoever's going to attack us. We'd need to ask first.
>>
No. 645457 ID: d3be40

Slap her in the face.

"You're surrounded by people who think otherwise. For such a survivalist you seem eager to beg random strangers to kill you."

Ask her about what they took and how it will interact with the cathedral. Does it turn the healing fountain into a cesspit of noxious gas or something?
>>
No. 645459 ID: d40861

>>645457
no.
>>
No. 645461 ID: bd8b82

who died and made you king of bitch-ville?
>>
No. 645467 ID: c01a15
File 143346041298.png - (54.91KB , 900x666 , 81.png )
645467

Well… he’s not wrong about some of that.

“You know what? You’re right. You’re absolutely right about some of that. So what if I want to make a name for myself? So what if I have a power trip? At least I’m helping people and doing something instead of brooding and whining.” I wag my arm stump for emphasis. “I have an awful lot to hate about my life, but none of it’s going to fucking make me run away from my ambitions. I’ll fight for them.”
>>
No. 645468 ID: c01a15
File 143346042674.png - (127.54KB , 900x666 , 82.png )
645468

> “Don’t ever tell me I’ve done nothing,” says Crus, removing her helmet. Her voice is no longer muffled and metallic, becoming instead feminine. “I may have failed, but I have not spent my life doing nothing. Be prepared to fight for your fever dream, and be prepared to die for it.”

She is a little bit hard to look at. I don’t know how to respond now. Thoughts of the door in the catacombs fill my head. Mining around the door is an option, but I will save it for when I remodel the place. I need some laborers to do that.
>>
No. 645471 ID: 7668ec

Can she at least say who it is she is so sure is coming to get us?
>>
No. 645473 ID: d90668

Yeah I will die for my dreams says the crazy lady who wanders in and apparently ruins everything and does not bother to even tell anyone what she ruined.

If you had just come up to the fucking cathedral like a normal person instead of molesting people in the bushes none of this would have happened. We could have defended you from that thing and it would not have stolen whatever it was.

So stop giving me crap and tell me what the fuck is going on. Or not and just stay here lurking in the shadows scaring people.
>>
No. 645474 ID: 23df7a

lets take a breath for a moment and maybe stop coming off as a massive dickhole.

"I am prepared. I wouldn't have started this if I wasn't. and you haven't failed until you STOP TRYING. that stoney creep can't have gotten far, and its already wounded."
>>
No. 645475 ID: ab7529

>I don’t know how to respond now.
I think it's safe to say neither of you knows what the other has been through.

>Be prepared to fight for your fever dream, and be prepared to die for it.
It's awful hard to be prepared without information.
>>
No. 645476 ID: c01a15
File 143346193582.png - (67.51KB , 900x666 , 83.png )
645476

“Nooooo no no no no. You don’t get to give me shit about anything. You storm into my yard and tackle my friend when you could have come and knocked on the front door like a sane person. Look, I get it. You’ve been bitten. You don’t trust anyone. That doesn’t give you a ticket to act like a damn crazy person and jump out of the bushes at teenage girls.”

> “You can’t-”

“Ahp ahp ahp. Tell me what’s going on, or at the very least tell me who in the fuck is after you. You don’t have to tell me why, just who.”

> Crus sighs and wraps her arms around her torso. “Ortise. Rufio Ortise.”
>>
No. 645477 ID: e114bc

Go on a rant about your kiss-ass little brother.
>>
No. 645479 ID: ab7529

Sigh and cover your face with your one remaining hand.

God damn it, little brother.
>>
No. 645482 ID: bd8b82

let out the most sigh sigh to ever be uttered.
>>
No. 645483 ID: e624ed

Not even surprised at this point. Least that gives you a personal reason to stay, a chance to screw over that blistering parasite of a brother.
>>
No. 645484 ID: 2c759a

FUCK
>>
No. 645486 ID: a599c3

>>645476
well Ortise, cant say that you didnt see this day coming. ask about your brother's rank and position, i thought he wanted to become a chivalrous knight or something right?
>>
No. 645488 ID: 9297f4

"........Excuse me"
Walk to somewhere secluded and scream.
Walk back in and say
"I now see why you are paranoid."
>>
No. 645491 ID: 328d7b

"...Okay.

First off, Rufio Ortise is my brother.
Second off, since I know my brother, hearing this doesn't surprise me.

It greatly pisses me off, but it doesn't surprise me."
>>
No. 645503 ID: 680b49

my brother is a cockmongling piece of shit who's the reason I'm missing this arm and not being able to do plenty of things I would want to do right now
>>
No. 645574 ID: c01a15
File 143348189014.png - (110.37KB , 900x666 , 84.png )
645574

[screams internally]
>>
No. 645578 ID: c01a15
File 143348204035.png - (51.99KB , 900x666 , 85.png )
645578

“Rufio, huh? We really are fucked, aren’t we.”

> “What?”

“I can’t say I am surprised about this…”

> “What do you mean you’re not surprised?”

“Rufio is my younger brother. I grew up with him, and I know him really well.”

> “You are related to the White Dragon? I knew I couldn’t trust you!”

“Hold on. I don’t… dislike him any less than you do. See this? He was the one who cut off my arm. It happened almost a year ago, and really, he’s not the Rufio I grew up with anymore. What can you tell me about him?”

> “He serves as the commander of Avigrade’s legion of holy warriors. I only met him once. That’s all I know.”
>>
No. 645587 ID: a19cd5

>>645578
"well, let me rattle off what I know aboit him: 1. he is an asshole. 2..."
drop the skinny on rufioh
>>
No. 645603 ID: c01a15
File 143348396133.png - (95.96KB , 900x666 , 86.png )
645603

>>645587

I don’t know if she really needs to hear me rant about my brother. In fact, I don’t really even know what she needs or wants. She has stopped talking, and it just kind of staring. Not starting at me, but… just staring.

“Uh… y’alright?”

> “What?” she says, “I’m fine.”

“You were spacing out a little bit.”

> “I’m fine. I need a weapon. I lost my weapon…”

She has mellowed out a little bit. The water riled her up a lot, but now it is a bit quieter. There is a bit of commotion in the Orlanda room, where it sounds like Levna is setting up shop. I have things to attend to here. What do I do with this crazy lady?
>>
No. 645604 ID: a19cd5

she probably needs it to feel safe, get her something but be cautious.
>>
No. 645606 ID: e114bc

>>645603
Introduce her to the people around here. Make sure she's warned about the ghost. Also I suppose you can ask where she lost her club, and go looking for it. Or have someone else look for it.
>>
No. 645625 ID: e624ed

Tell her if she wants to stay she can stay, if she wants to leave she can leave but can come back if she chooses. Whatever she does just ask that she not attack random people around the church as a lot of them aren't exactly in the best of health.

Point of this is so she doesn't feel like a prisoner and honestly giving the crazy lady some room to breath might do her some good. As for a weapon, ask the town chief what he's got, we're a healer, only weapon we have is the one we're carrying. He might have some spares though.
>>
No. 645660 ID: c01a15
File 143348652989.png - (29.54KB , 900x666 , 87.png )
645660

I guess I need to start learning to deal with people like this. Not everyone in need is going to be grateful, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t in need. Fuck, this is going to be tough. I introduce Crus to everyone in the sanctum.

“You’re welcome to stay, but you have to to not be an assh- uh, you’ve got to be nicer. This is Father Alvin on the right.”

> “Hello my child!” says the padre.

“Then there’s Jaco, the man who saved your life. Levna's in the other room. That’s Abar, the chief of the village down the road, and I believe you have met Lucille already. That reminds me, too. You can’t go around tackling people. You’re free to stay or go, but if you hurt anyone, the least I’m going to do is kick you out of here. Help yourself to the food, too. You’re looking a little skinny.”
>>
No. 645661 ID: c01a15
File 143348655043.png - (15.14KB , 900x666 , 88.png )
645661

Crus doesn’t take that last part well, so I decide to change the subject. “A weapon, huh?” I say, “I saw you fighting out there in the yard. You’re a skilled fighter, but I think you’re using the wrong weapon. You’re not very strong, so you could do with something long and sharp.”

> “Well… you… you’re a beanpole! You’re calling me weak?” Crus’ ears stand on end, and she raises her arms.

“I’m not the strongest guy around. That’s why I fight with a rapier. It really doesn’t take much to kill someone. I’ll see if the chief can’t fix you up with a glaive or a smallsword.”

> “I won’t be supporting this brute,” Abar butts in. “She assaulted my betrothed. You are on your own with that, Ortise.”

Well, there’s another item for the list. Speaking of which, I need a to-do list for the next couple of days.
>>
No. 645687 ID: e114bc

Alright.

1) Go buy something for Crus. You have money now, and she should have something.
2) Threat evaluation. How fucking boned are we? Does your brother have a huge army he can besiege this place with? Or will Basstrid stop any large force? I don't remember if Basstrid and Rufio are allied or not.
3) Based on 2, hire people to either start working on fortifications (if we have any hope of fighting Rufio's forces off) or start working on breaking down the walls to get whatever Rufio is going to come here to take. If we get it first, we can run with it to a safer place. ...if there are safer places. Maybe that meteor tower could hold off an army if we got it into the air or something?
4) If we're going to fight, hire some mercenaries. Keep in mind we can use the healing water to keep people in fighting shape. We want mercenaries that aren't afraid of getting hurt if it means winning a battle.
>>
No. 645690 ID: a19cd5

>>645661
1: get supplies
2: get place fixed
3: get place fortified


tertiary:
1. gst revenge on brat through petty pranks
2. get crus a sweet spear or polearm
3. idk, get laid?
>>
No. 645699 ID: c01a15
File 143348871987.png - (13.00KB , 900x666 , 89.png )
645699

Oof, well, excellent. There won’t be a dull moment for me for a long while. I will begin with this list now…

after a quick trip to the tailor.

END CHAPTER FIVE
>>
No. 645703 ID: c01a15
File 143348933753.png - (13.74KB , 900x666 , heading_6.png )
645703

Hmmmmmmm. Hmmmmmmm. Hmmmmmmm.
>>
No. 645706 ID: c01a15
File 143348936330.png - (10.86KB , 900x666 , 1.png )
645706

Not even enough to fill our armor. Three hundred short men, green as grass. It’s not enough. It’s never enough. It is only a matter of time before the armies of the titans are warring amongst themselves, and when the realm is in flames, terror will roll in from the east.

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
>>
No. 645709 ID: a19cd5

>>645706
maybe sit them all down for a chat?
>>
No. 645710 ID: e114bc

>>645706
Who is the terror? Perhaps they have enemies you can stand beside.
>>
No. 645749 ID: c01a15
File 143349107996.png - (16.30KB , 900x666 , 2.png )
645749

>>645709
I have told them what there is to tell, and what there is is grim. If the tidings are bitter, I do not coat them in honey.

>>645710
The terror is Anqqi the Legged and her legions. She had been dormant in her spire for nearly a century, but some mysterious happenings in Als Eyvor have piqued her aggression. The only ally that I may turn to is Uuhg the Limpid. Dear as Uuhg is, he is also kind. Weak and kind. I have sent birds to Als Eyvor nearly every week, petitioning Avigrade and his underlings to send me Rufio Ortise, but each plea has gone unheeded.

People are dying in the east. Not only Uuhg’s Pilosian warriors, but innocents, too. Villages burn, cities crumble, and the insect hordes draw nearer. For what, I don’t know, but Avigrade has made it very clear that he does not care. Perhaps he wishes to make an enemy of me.

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
>>
No. 645753 ID: e114bc

>>645749
That, or he's allied with Anqqi. Is there a way to find out?

...maybe you should look into the mysterious happenings. Find out what Anqqi wants, and either give it to her or turn it against her.
>>
No. 645759 ID: d3be40

Important question: Why are you such a dick to your own villages?

You treat your villagers like cannon fodder and your subordinates like conscript dispensers, do you think that makes you any better than the Titans?

If you are better than this, then how desperate is the war that you have to empty out an entire town of inexperienced, underequipped civilians?
>>
No. 645778 ID: c01a15
File 143349230330.png - (9.88KB , 900x666 , 3.png )
645778

As a commander, these are questions which plague me day and night. What makes this war desperate is that my outpost here is the only line of defense against an oncoming invasion from Anqqi, and the only troops at my disposal are untrained peasants. I do not wish for them to die, nor do I see them as dispensable. I merely have no other choice.

Scouts have begun to appear here from Anqqi’s spire, and I can see that they are testing my waters to see if this outpost will be a threat to them. At the very least, having a cordon of armed and armored troops will fool the scouts. They have not come close enough to count just yet, but each approach has them more brazen. It is of grave importance that the actual strength of this outpost be kept secret, and that I gain more troops as quickly as possible.

I am at a loss for how.
>>
No. 645781 ID: e114bc

>>645778
...Ever think of bolstering your forces with mannequins? Or golems?

It sounds like what you really need is someone to train these greenhorns.
>>
No. 645940 ID: bd8b82

eventually someone will strike and when your force does not have the vigor of true warriors in its strike back, they will know. you need enough well trained mixed in that they can attack with true discipline and thus make them think all in your army are like that.
>>
No. 646123 ID: 1a1808

So you're asking for aid from your superiors, telling the m of the troubles going, the trouble you're in, and they say they don't care or refuse to send help? Fuck them, take your men and leave because your superiors obviously don't see this place or you and your people as important and have just sent you here to wast enemy time and them die. So fuck em!
>>
No. 646177 ID: 328d7b

Kill the scouts? Train the troops better so they're not just fodder? Try to be less terrifying and more charismatic? Discipline in an army is important, but troops are more loyal and spirited under a leader they feel they can trust to a degree, and doing things like ordering executions at the first sign of possible dissent is only going to increase dissent where you can't see it.
>>
No. 646321 ID: d3be40

Even so, you know that the lack of civilians means that your conscripts will be underfed. They likely wouldn't last three battles against even weaker but well-fed conscripts.

This isn't working. You need to play this smart, not send civilians to the slaughterhouse.

That weapon of yours, the lightsaber or something; how many soldiers can you take on yourself.
>>
No. 646531 ID: c01a15
File 143356740369.png - (18.09KB , 900x666 , 4.png )
646531

>>646123
They are not my superiors. I have taken it upon myself completely to protect this region from harm when no titan will. Until they offer sword and spear to keep this place out of Anqqi’s claws, they are not my superiors. I train these conscripts to the best of my ability, and I feed them with all that my meager means can provide. I have urged that young fool Abar to prepare his people for war, but he only concerns himself with his petty personal affairs.

I have a wife. I have a son. I have a heart.

Heart has no place in war, and until he can realize that, I will only consider him a young fool.


>>646177
I am open to the prospect of offering these conscripts a leader to look up to, but this position that I have taken is a great weight on my shoulders. If there is any way to improve morale and loyalty in this dire situation, I am open to suggestions.

Two whom may I turn for help? The titans pull the strings of the people, and yet they still manage to be profoundly useless.

Avigrade is an old recluse, and I suspect that he has motives boiling in his inner circle which are not in favor of the realm.
Uuhg the Limpid is a friend of mine, but he lives in fear and denial of Anqqi’s advances, even as his own city has fallen to her viciousness. He would gladly bend his knee to her, but he offers me only kind words and never soldiers.
Red Hawk is only concerned with his own hedonistic pleasures, collecting men and women for his harems and pushing his cults of lechery across the land.
Goldliver is obsessed with wealth for its own sake. She has never been known to be cooperative.
Big Fat… I shudder to think of him whenever I absolutely must. He eats, and that’s all he cares to do. He lusts for food like Goldliver lusts for coin.
Stephen seems to think that nothing exists beyond his small domain. He is difficult to get in contact with, and even when I manage to, a single word is enough to bore him.
Chumvi… Chumvi is but a husk.

It is very clear to me that these conscripts are not the solution to my problem, and that until Anqqi pours into the western plains, I am the greatest detriment to the people. The plainfolk know this, and they rightly despise me. I need to approach one of the titans diplomatically in order to attain force, but which one?
>>
No. 646532 ID: e114bc

>>646531
Well you've got a bunch of untrained conscripts... you could trade some of them to Red Hawk in exchange for soldiers. See if you can get enough volunteers for this.
>>
No. 646544 ID: d3be40

Big Fat. If you conquer the cathedral, the near-unlimited healing water should make a good payment to him. Something to guzzle down with razor-sharp food. Indulgent.
>>
No. 646548 ID: e114bc

>>646544
Basstrid doesn't know about the cathedral.
>>
No. 646598 ID: ee1ead

Red Hawk. You're most likely to get willing volunteers to trade to a Titan that concerns himself with sex instead of... other things, and perhaps there's even some sex cults nearby you could coerce/convince to act as volunteers.
>>
No. 647019 ID: 55c4cf

Chumvi sounds like a trustworthy husk.
>>
No. 647020 ID: f262c4

Red Hawk.
>>
No. 647344 ID: ed37ab

my vote is for red hawk.
>>
No. 647524 ID: c01a15
File 143391991591.png - (34.49KB , 900x666 , 5.png )
647524

Very well. I shall embark from my outpost in the sands and go west to the city of Plume. Redhawk resides there, and I only hope to find him in good spirits.
>>
No. 647525 ID: c01a15
File 143391993718.png - (18.93KB , 900x666 , 6.png )
647525

I have always known Redhawk to be generally amicable. My more pressing concern about him is his tendency toward apathy and diversion. He seeks only to satisfy his base pleasures, leaving the administration of his sizable region to his numerous ministers. Reaching the titan to speak with him face-to-face may prove difficult.
>>
No. 647526 ID: c01a15
File 143391995274.png - (12.77KB , 900x666 , 7.png )
647526

Near the center of the great valley, perched upon one of its rolling hillocks stands Plume. The architecture plain, but notably phallic, towering imposingly against the grey skies.
>>
No. 647527 ID: c01a15
File 143391996571.png - (14.92KB , 900x666 , 8.png )
647527

Immat sentries stand guard at every door to the palace, disallowing entry to the uninvited.
>>
No. 647529 ID: e114bc

Tell them you have come to make a deal.
>>
No. 647537 ID: ed37ab

how does one get an invitation?
>>
No. 647541 ID: a19cd5

Pull out your elephant dick and slap them in the face with it, that's what these people are into right?
>>
No. 647542 ID: d3be40

You have a Rare/Epic weapon, intimidate the guards into allowing your audience.

Say, what does your weapon do, anyway?
>>
No. 647579 ID: bd8b82

just tell them you have come to speak to their master and may have something they want.
>>
No. 649329 ID: 5d0c55

Dress up like a servant and enter on the heels of an entourage
>>
No. 649856 ID: c01a15
File 143492343623.png - (16.88KB , 900x666 , 9.png )
649856

I am here as an envoy. It would be unwise to enter under false pretenses. I approach the guards and state my intentions to speak with the titan Redhawk in regards to diplomacy.

> “Oh sir, you are a rare sort indeed. You may enter, however I must impose that we do not allow weapons or,” he gives me a quick glance from the ground up, “nnhn, hn hn hn, armor inside the tower.”

The other guard chimes in as well.

> “Also, I’m afraid we cannot guarantee audience with His Mightyhood, as he is often… ehehee… indisposed.”
>>
No. 649857 ID: bd8b82

"can you guarantee my safety and return of equipment when i am finished?" if so then agree.
>>
No. 649858 ID: d90668

Ok weapons I can see but Armor?

These two are either fucking with you or have been ordered to try and drive off people by making unreasonable demands.
>>
No. 649864 ID: e114bc

>>649858
One does not enter a house of Lust while overdressed.

>>649856
Strip!
>>
No. 649867 ID: c01a15
File 143492564464.png - (35.69KB , 900x666 , 10.png )
649867

“Can you guarantee my safety and the return of my equipment?”

> “But of course, sir. It is only on the condition that you do not incite violence within the city, and particularly the tower.”
>>
No. 649868 ID: d3be40

You know that they'll just kill you if you can't offer them something great in the future. You're not a Titan, they aren't obligated to show respect. Or good-will.

Request that Redhawk meet you outside the gates of his palace, or communicate via comm-link. You request sanctuary for your people, who are otherwise going to war to die. You offer up their land, which would otherwise be bogged down by Titan bureaucracy, to be reclaimed through generations of service to the perseverant families. You also need a small army; take the stragglers out of his troops, they'll be cheaper than dirt and better than a legion of conscripts.
>>
No. 649869 ID: e114bc

>>649867
Seems reasonable. Take off the armor. Show some skin, that'll make them happy. (or unhappy)
>>
No. 649871 ID: bd8b82

hmm, sounds fair enough.
>>
No. 649872 ID: d90668

Well if you feel safe go for it. If inside is a hedonistic paradise then no one is going to care if you are wandering around half naked.

Do you just have the loincloth under the armor or do you have some other padding as well?
>>
No. 649974 ID: c01a15
File 143494383451.png - (9.83KB , 900x666 , 11.png )
649974

> “I am afraid that His Mightiness will not be able to accommodate a parley outside of his palace. If you are willing to agree to our reasonable terms, then you are welcome to visit.”

“Very well then. I accept.” The guard calls a servant to take my armor and weapon to a storage locker, and the doors to the palace open.
>>
No. 649975 ID: c01a15
File 143494385508.png - (11.70KB , 900x666 , 13.png )
649975

> “Aha well, hello sir.”

I am approached by a small servant wearing an unusually ornate hat.

> “My name is Zam, and I am in charge of onboarding newcomers to Plume Palace. Please, ehee… come inside.”

“Thank you, however I am not here to stay. I come in search of a diplomatic counsel with the titan Redhawk.”

> “Mind the style of His Mightiness, sir, if I might offer a word of advice.”

“Forgive me. May I speak with him?”
>>
No. 649976 ID: c01a15
File 143494387736.png - (45.70KB , 900x666 , 12.png )
649976

> “Look around you, sir. Take the sights into your eyes, the smells into your nose, and the sounds into your ears. This is a place of escape and safety.”

The smells of incense, perfume, and tobacco permeate the air, even in such a massive chamber. A causeway in the center of the tower leads to the top with stairwells circling into the escalating balconies. The Immat seem to prefer to fly from floor to floor, but there are guests of nearly every walk dancing to the carnal thump of music. This servant is avoiding my request.

“The quarters of His Mightiness are indeed grand, but I come with a purpose which is political in nature.”

> “These matters… why, they are not matters at all here, sir! The food and drink are plenty and the bodies are all warm. Lie with someone here if you wish. I assure you that you will be quite popular amongst the regulars.”

“Please consider my-”

> “May I take you to one of our popular floors? The Deck of Savoring, the Deck of Dance? Perhaps the Deck of Writhing is more to your preference, sir?”
>>
No. 649979 ID: d90668

Just go along with it for now. Tell her they all sound so tempting you cant decide.

Then ask for a tour. You should be able to figure out where Redhawk is lurking once you get a look at the layout.
>>
No. 649981 ID: ab7529

>“May I take you to one of our popular floors? The Deck of Savoring, the Deck of Dance? Perhaps the Deck of Writhing is more to your preference, sir?”
I do not mean to besmirch your hospitality, but I am afraid I do not have the time to enjoy such dalliances. Perhaps another day, when my concerns are less immediate.
>>
No. 649987 ID: e114bc

>>649976
What's the catch?
>>
No. 649992 ID: d3be40

You don't have the luxury to relax, not when your fallback plan is to throw civilians at trained soldiers because they're your only army. As important as relaxation is, you couldn't afford it at home, so don't rent it at an expensive hotel.
>>
No. 649997 ID: c01a15
File 143494859973.png - (10.08KB , 900x666 , 14.png )
649997

>>649987
I do not care what the catch is. I am a married man, and all of this is frivolous.

“I appreciate the hospitality that you have shown me, however I am interested in none of this. My purpose here is purely diplomatic, and I wish to speak with His Mightiness as soon as possible.”

> “Oh, fine. I can see you are someone who’s never had a day of fun in his life, and never will. Well, His Mightiness is unavailable at the moment.”

“May I ask why?”

> “He is holding a personal feast with only invited guests.”

“I will wait here until the feast is over, then.”

> “You are welcome to if you would like to wait for a week.” Zam sighs. “I will fetch our Commissary Minister. Her Grace will be out here in just a moment.”
>>
No. 649998 ID: c01a15
File 143494861612.png - (9.96KB , 900x666 , 15.png )
649998

I wait for more than half an hour - something that I am not accustomed to. The Commissary Minister finally appears in the doorway across the thoroughfare.
>>
No. 649999 ID: c01a15
File 143494863389.png - (14.38KB , 900x666 , 16.png )
649999

> “I am Minister Dolcinia. I am in charge of matters of policy in Plume.”

Her voice is austere and her words are few. I like her, but I am very surprised to see a Daiqi in charge of such important duties for the Immat. There are several reasons that she seems out of place here.

“I am Lord Hugo Basstrid, protector of the eastern front by my own charge. I wish to petition His Mightiness, the titan Redhawk for military assistance in the defense of the east.”

> “And what do yo have to offer for this assistance?”
>>
No. 650001 ID: ed37ab

well... what might lord redhawk want in exchange? additions to his harem? fine ales? money? what makes the guy tick?
>>
No. 650002 ID: e114bc

You are in possession of a large quantity of young men and women that would probably be quite pleased to be here instead of on the front lines. How does 50 of them sound, for starters?
>>
No. 650011 ID: c01a15
File 143495016563.png - (12.01KB , 900x666 , 17.png )
650011

“What might his Mightiness desire in exchange?”

> “The desires of His Mightiness rarely reflect the needs of the province, and that is why my job exists. Mighty Mighty Redhawk does not concern himself with money - only with lust. If you wish to appease his Mightiness, remember that.”

“I have a large quantity of young men and women at my command. None of them have yet seen combat.”

> “They may make a smooth addition to His Mightiness’ harem, though that is hardly enough for me to consider lending you military assistance.”

“What do you desire, then?”

> “I am frightfully busy, Mister Basstrid, and so I have had very little time to educate my underling in the ways of war. Seeing that she is the daughter of His Mightiness, young Princess Prettybeak shall inherit my position.”

“Would it not make more sense for His Mightiness to educate her?”

> “Too much sense, you see. His Mightiness… disapproves of her bookish nature, and has all but shunned her in favor of his more gregarious offspring. She is a bright young lady, which has made it very simple for me to educate her in the administrative aspects of my position. I fear that that training her in war craft would be too time consuming, and perhaps best left to a seasoned warrior. Your face suggests that you may be.”

“I have seen battle as both a soldier and a general.”

> “Good. I suspect that I do not have to tell you what will happen to your head if any harm comes to the princess.”

“It is understood, Minister.”

> “Double good. Make a commander of the princess, and I will lend you command of the illustrious Cloud Cavalry. They are capable of turning the tide of even the most dire of battles.”
>>
No. 650013 ID: e114bc

>>650011
This deal is acceptable.

You'll have to train one person in the ways of war, and in exchange get a large quantity of elite soldiers. It's like you're training all the soldiers, not just one person.
>>
No. 650014 ID: d3be40

Now we're talking. Sounds like a good deal, as long as Redhawk doesn't actually care about her.
>>
No. 650017 ID: 57d76a

Well! That's a good deal for you. Just hope she's not a total brat. Even if she is, though, you're unlikely to get a better deal, so I'd go with this.
>>
No. 650021 ID: c01a15
File 143495122862.png - (10.01KB , 900x666 , 19.png )
650021

“The terms are amiable. I accept.”

> “Very good. I shall summon her.”
>>
No. 650022 ID: c01a15
File 143495126347.png - (11.30KB , 900x666 , 20.png )
650022

> “PRRRRINCEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!”
>>
No. 650023 ID: c01a15
File 143495131753.png - (9.48KB , 900x666 , 18.png )
650023

A young Immat stumbles down the hallway leading out to the great thoroughfare.

> “Here. Yes ma’am. I’m here. H-how how can I help you ma’am.”

> Dolcinia: “This is Hugo Basstrid. He will be your instructor in war craft.”

> Princess Prettybeak: “H-him? Hello sir. Yes sir. Sorry sir. Hello again. Thank you for being here. Ach! Sorry, no, I didn’t mean to say that. Doesn’t make sense. Thank you for training… training me.”
>>
No. 650024 ID: e114bc

"Are you sure this task is possible?"
>>
No. 650027 ID: 57d76a

>>650023
Hmm. Okay. So you've got more of a task on your hands than expected. Still the best deal you're gonna get.

Besides, I suspect you'll find her a very quick study once she's got a bit of confidence. Which may happen the moment she gets out from under this lady's thumb. (If not, building her confidence is going to be part of our job. IT IS NOT OPTIONAL EVEN IF SHE LEARNS ANYWAY.)
>>
No. 650029 ID: ab7529

Is she suffering from hypothermia? Or under the influence of some stimulant? Or is it simply nerves that drive her to shiver and speak so rapidly.
>>
No. 650030 ID: bd8b82

take her, now that you have something to focus on, you can apply a lot of your attention into her instead of trying to train an army of recruits. you can watch and correct any mistakes instantly yourself instead of needing to hear about them from underlings.
>>
No. 650036 ID: d3be40

Oh dear.

NOT what I was expecting. Well, once you hone her anxiety into sheer raging hysteria, this should be easy enough.
>>
No. 650045 ID: bd8b82

oh, be sure to mention that while you wont hurt her, physical training will be required, if she climbs half-way up a rope and falls on her ass and bruises it, it is normal.
>>
No. 650250 ID: c01a15
File 143503726151.png - (9.35KB , 900x666 , 21.png )
650250

“I will not hurt you, Princess. I am only here to train you in the ways of war.”

> “Oh, I see.”

“What education do you have?”

> “M-mathematics, logic, political science, physics, psychology, economics…”

“Very well. You shall accompany me to the eastern front. Do not worry, you will be safe there within the walls of my stronghold.”

> “Oh, we are leaving Plume? Good, I guess. My brothers and sisters are always out doing that thing with people anyway and I can’t stand to listen to it all the time! Ach! Why would anyone want to be touched down there anyway just thinking about it gives me the creeps and the jeebs, ach. I’m sorry, I just don’t like the thought of being naked is all.

“I do not believe that this is a productive or necessary area of discussion.”

> “Right, sorry.”
>>
No. 650251 ID: bd8b82

do you need anything before we leave, or do you have everything?
>>
No. 650254 ID: d3be40

Maybe she should start out with some good armor - an extra-strength helmet, a large shield, some basic leather, etc. so that she doesn't feel uncovered when going out to learn about warzones.
>>
No. 650255 ID: e114bc

>>650250
Ask her how much she can lift. Has she done any physical training? She will need to be physically fit for her role as commander, won't she?
>>
No. 650264 ID: a19cd5

Pick her up and stick her on your shoulder.
Id make up something about her seeing the world as you do but honestly I just think it'd be adorable
>>
No. 650284 ID: 88960e

>>650250
If she is concerned with her personal space, perhaps she will find learning to defend herself productive.

This is far from the worst situation. Her education gives her an initial edge in logistics, and someone clearly unsettled by the hedonism here is ready to be shaped to a new more practical philosophy.
>>
No. 650368 ID: 57d76a

So Dulcinea is grooming an asexual to lead a sex cult. Nice. I like them both already.

I guess I have little to say except y that this should work out well.
>>
No. 650388 ID: c01a15
File 143511968163.png - (17.92KB , 900x666 , 22.png )
650388

> get her armor
Armor on an unskilled fighter is like reading glasses on an illiterate. I would prefer to train her in the yard first before outfitting her for battle. She is somewhat diminutive, making her unsuited for heavy shields and helmets.


We make the journey back east to the outpost, arriving there in the evening. Something is wrong.
>>
No. 650389 ID: c01a15
File 143511970634.png - (55.69KB , 900x666 , 23.png )
650389

A battle has broken out in the flats surrounding the outpost.
>>
No. 650390 ID: bd8b82

stick her on your back, under your cape and tell her to hold on. get into that battle.
>>
No. 650392 ID: ab7529

Your first lesson in war: discretion. You are not prepared for this battle, student.
>>
No. 650393 ID: e114bc

>>650389
Alright time for her first lesson. Ride into battle and show her how fights go. If she stays on the mount and you defend it, she should be relatively safe.
>>
No. 650438 ID: d3be40

Have her ride at a distance while you join the attack. Let her learn from your example as a soldier, and then issue some commands as a general.

As an exam, ask her to criticize you on what you did. Thirty seconds after she opens her beak, explain that she forgot (if she forgot, that is) the most important thing of all: you survived. Rule #1 in war: It's Us Or Them, nothing more, nothing less. The real challenge comes from deciding who "us" and "them" are in subjective terms according to the situation. Proceed to make peace with the surviving enemy, as well as negotiations and interrogations.
>>
No. 650692 ID: aa22ae

It's not safe to bring her into battle but ignoring it and taking her inside first would be demoralizing to your men.

Come in the back of the fight and get one of your men to safely bring her to the outpost as you join your men.
>>
No. 651001 ID: c01a15
File 143537975608.png - (16.39KB , 900x666 , 24.png )
651001

I hide the princess beneath my mantle, since there is no time to safely deliver her into the tower. I ride closer to the fray to survey the scene.
>>
No. 651002 ID: c01a15
File 143537977347.png - (24.33KB , 900x666 , 25.png )
651002

One of the shield walls has broken, and the troops have yielded. The Ganthus raiders show the cravens no mercy, and slaughter them wholesale as they cower.
>>
No. 651003 ID: c01a15
File 143537978933.png - (33.53KB , 900x666 , 26.png )
651003

I make a mental note of the situation and share it with the princess. The troops have formed a defensive chevron around the front of the tower with the heaviest infantry on point. My son Fargo commands the defense.
>>
No. 651004 ID: bd8b82

ride by and smash the head in of the enemy at the broken wall.
>>
No. 651005 ID: e114bc

She's supposed to get training. This is a good opportunity! I think you can turn the tide easily by flanking the enemy, but why don't you ask her what to do, instead? Act out her decision until the results of it are clear, then if things are going badly, take over.
>>
No. 651007 ID: 334db2

Unfortunately, reinforcing the broken shield wall means that it will be us versus the whole army. If that's the case, outflank the forces attacking the southernmost intact shield wall instead, and draw the rest of them to you.
>>
No. 651638 ID: eac8be

Join up with the intact shield wall nearest the broken one; even if you personally are badass enough to just wade into a group of enemies on your own doing so would put the princess in a lot of danger before we have had any chance to train her in not dying.

(Why are our forces spread out on the outside of the moat? Doesn't that kind of defeat the purpose of having one?)

>>651005
Things are already going somewhat badly; we will have to discuss our decisions with her afterwards.
>>
No. 651780 ID: 1cebc8

Your weapons and armor are advanced technology. Focus on taking out the heavy infantry, they will deal the most casualties if you leave them for last.
>>
No. 651930 ID: c01a15
File 143568622649.png - (30.10KB , 900x666 , 27.png )
651930

I ride to the southernmost intact shieldwall, gaining to a full gallop. I strike the first Ganthu, and my weapon discharges.

KAK

Felling just one of the raiders drives the troops of the wall to redouble their push against the remainder.


>why station outside of the moat
It is not a moat. The tower is surrounded by a deep crater, and positioning my troops at the bottom of it puts them at a tactical disadvantage against invaders pouring over the higher edge. I mean to form this crater into more advantageous fortification, but with so few workers at my disposal, the progress is slow between building and training.

>train the princess
I cannot do that during battle at this point. I will have to discuss with her afterward.
>>
No. 651931 ID: c01a15
File 143568624532.png - (17.97KB , 900x666 , 28.png )
651931

> “Father!” My son Fargo gallops to the end of his command. “The raiders were upon us before our scouts could spot them. We’ve lost a few dozen.”
>>
No. 651951 ID: bd8b82

"then we ride together to drive them back" support the next group that seems to be struggling.
>>
No. 651953 ID: 1cebc8

An electric rod? Ask Dolcinia if she knows how to apply electric attacks for special attacks, like chain lightning.

For now, let her off and ride into combat. Pick her up between skirmishes to confirm her safety.
>>
No. 651969 ID: c01a15
File 143569348285.png - (20.84KB , 900x666 , 29.png )
651969

>>651951

I cannot simply ride with Fargo to attack them alone. This would leave us outnumbered, and would leave the ranks uncommanded. My club has two charges left before it must be rested at its station in the tower.

I need to think about how to arrange the troops. There are three units, and two of them must have a commander with them at all times. One at a time can be left in peripheral command.



Units:

2 x light infantry
1 x heavy infantry
0 x archers
0 x artillery
0 x cavalry*

*excludes commanders
>>
No. 651985 ID: 1cebc8

>>651969
The enemy seems to have a specific goal in mind. Let them advance, but trick them by flanking with your light infantry via 120-degree angles while you advance alongside your heavy infantry. Use the remaining charges on heavy units, scavenge the target structure to make it unusable for the enemy, and retreat.
>>
No. 651995 ID: eac8be

The troops to the south seem to be doing the worst so far, so you should command them while your son joins with the heavy infantry to deal with the enemies there and hopefully push north.

Is your club still fairly effective against huge bug men when out of charge and acting as a normal club?
>>
No. 651997 ID: fbc59e

Hrrm...
Looks to me like you should command the Heavy Infantry, while your son either takes the light infantry here to mop up the stragglers...Or, if there really aren't that many enemies relative to our troops here, both father and son can ride to the main battle while the troops here finish those guys off.
>>
No. 651999 ID: 334db2

Our son will command the Heavy Infantry and northern light infantry. We'll mop up and relieve him. Don't let any of them get away.
>>
No. 652007 ID: e114bc

>>651969
You have some light infantry freed up now. Have Fargo manage the heavy infantry and hold the line, then lead the free light infantry to attack those three raiders. Blow another charge to reduce their numbers so that your infantry have an easier time. Keep the last charge for an emergency.

Then flank the raiders attacking the heavy infantry, and then mop up the rest.
>>
No. 652016 ID: c01a15
File 143570495219.png - (24.80KB , 900x666 , 30.png )
652016

I send Fargo to command the heavy infantry, and command him to hold the line while I eliminate the sideline enemies. It is imperative that not a single raider escapes this attack. If this is a victory for us, it will alert Anqqi and her court that there is defense in the west. That will deter her from invasion and buy us time.

I storm to the south with my unit, and they bound over the corpses of their comrades with ease. I strike and kill one of the three Ganthus, using up my second to last charge.

“HOLD YOUR RANK!” I shout, seeing the line loosen as they approach the enemies. As Fargo and I trained them, they attack in unison, standing directly abreast and honing their spears toward the targets.

The Ganthu make tough exoskeletal armor, and it takes a moment for the spearmen to find the gaps. The raider slay four of mine before they fall.
>>
No. 652018 ID: c01a15
File 143570496828.png - (12.31KB , 900x666 , 31.png )
652018

The raiders to the south have been eliminated. Fargo is holding the heavy infantry line in the center, and the raiders have split into two units to attack both of Fargo’s lines.

I have one charge left in my weapon, but I am a trained master-at-arms. I am more than capable of using the club to great effect in battle.
>>
No. 652019 ID: 1cebc8

You SO need an upgrade for your Electron 2000. Perhaps Dolcinia can create some kind of portable energy pack?

Charge through enemy lines, stun their formation for a few seconds to give your soldiers the time they need to find critical hits.
>>
No. 652020 ID: bd8b82

now that you have free guys you can do a pincer and grind them between two groups of soldiers.
>>
No. 652022 ID: 3bc0da

>>652018
I say keep the last charge in reserve until either you/your son are in direct danger or one of the enemies try to run (would let you take out the fleeing enemy without compromising the leadership of your units.
Tactically I'd suggest the remaining units of your light infantry to flank the smaller troop while you or your son hassle the larger group until the smaller one is gone. (focusing on keeping them distracted/not attacking your units instead of outright killing them)
>>
No. 652023 ID: e114bc

Surround the remaining raiders so they can't retreat!
>>
No. 652066 ID: c01a15
File 143571015018.png - (15.64KB , 900x666 , 32.png )
652066

The pincer is successful, and inflicts swift casualties on more than half of the raiders attacking the heavy infantry. The remaining two go to rout while the larger group remains pressed on the northernmost wall of light infantry, which has suffered some losses.
>>
No. 652068 ID: bd8b82

trincer? tripincer? anyway, gang up and kick remaining asses. then hunt down the fleeing ones?
>>
No. 652152 ID: b27a55

Your two cavalry units can probably take two fleeing opponents themselves, while being much faster than them. Surround and eliminate the last remaining fighting enemies then pursue and destroy the fleeing ones.
>>
No. 652219 ID: db56e9

>>652068
You and your men swing up northward with speed and then move southward, have the heavy infantry line start moving strait northward.
Don't use the last charge on your lance, save it for anyone that tries to flee.
>>
No. 653008 ID: c01a15
File 143603034054.png - (4.59KB , 900x666 , 33.png )
653008

Two raiders have fled to the north. The northernmost shield wall has now suffered heavy casualties and is struggling to regroup.

> pursue the rout?
> defend the wall?
>>
No. 653011 ID: b88e47

Two men. Let them go. We have more important things to worry about.
>>
No. 653012 ID: a19cd5

>>653008
dont leave survivors to bring back more reinforcements. no.
>>
No. 653017 ID: 5859eb

>>653008
pursue them, they have info about our defences along with possible reinforcements
>>
No. 653018 ID: 742b4a

You said it would be disastrous if any of them survived. Pursue!
>>
No. 653019 ID: fbc59e

I don't think there's another wave incoming, so I think it's safe to pursue them and strike them down-
As I recall, one of our issues is a lack of trained soldiers-we cannot afford to let the enemy gain more intel on our situation than they already have.
>>
No. 653032 ID: 1cebc8

Don't let them retrieve the intel, retrieve the intel from them!
>>
No. 653047 ID: c01a15
File 143604440860.png - (20.57KB , 900x666 , 34.png )
653047

I outride the fleeing raiders and strike them down. I have left Fargo with the other two units. He has given the heavy infantry a command to push forward to close in opposite the light infantry to surround the rest of the combatants.
>>
No. 653048 ID: c01a15
File 143604442362.png - (22.54KB , 900x666 , 35.png )
653048

I use my last charge on the first routed raider. He spasms and collapses with flames on his back. I beat the second one on the head at full gallop, knocking him over. On my second pass, I trample him to death with my mount on the way back to the battle.
>>
No. 653049 ID: c01a15
File 143604443894.png - (23.20KB , 900x666 , 36.png )
653049

I arrive back at the tower. Fargo and the two infantry units have finished off the remaining raiders, after having suffered considerable losses. The light infantry unit has been eradicated, save for two severely injured recruits. The battle is won.

To my knowledge, none of the raiders escaped the battle. Unless they have some way of communicating remotely to The Spire, we have secured our intel, and possibly even deterred a full-scale invasion to the west. I would not doubt that Anqqi is plotting another raid on this station in the near future, and with greater numbers. I have yet to conclusively determine if these raiders were under Anqqi’s banner, or if they were simply free agents, bandits, or deserters.
>>
No. 653050 ID: 742b4a

>>653049
Scour the bodies to see if any of the raiders are still breathing, so you can interrogate them. If you can't find any, ask Fargo which direction they came from.

You can also examine the raiders for evidence of where they came from.
>>
No. 653051 ID: 334db2

Looks like we'll be burying the dead for a while now, but we should get the girl inside first. Morale is going to be blown after this.
>>
No. 653059 ID: c01a15
File 143605583306.png - (12.96KB , 900x666 , 37.png )
653059

“Fargo, where did the invaders come from?”

> “One of our nightwatchmen spotted watchfires in the east, but as soon as they were lit, the raiders were upon us from the west. We didn’t spot them en route to the tower. When they arrived, the eastern fires were extinguished.”

“Were there any survivors among the enemy?”
>>
No. 653060 ID: c01a15
File 143605584739.png - (20.07KB , 900x666 , 38.png )
653060

> “Just one. He calls himself Tilik Chak. He put up a stern resistance to capture, and now is demanding that we kill him.”
>>
No. 653061 ID: 742b4a

>>653060
Tell him you will do as he asks, but only if he answers your questions. Who does he work for? Why did he attack? Will there be more attacks?
>>
No. 653062 ID: 1cebc8

Break his arms and legs. Tell him that the more information he gives you, the faster you'll let him die. (By health problems due to bleedout, not by killing him)
>>
No. 653069 ID: 742b4a

...oh! Now that we're not in an urgent situation, can the princess help with interrogation?
>>
No. 653085 ID: 742b4a

You know, I'm curious... why can't Anqqi just go around your base?
>>
No. 653103 ID: c01a15
File 143606713864.png - (12.14KB , 900x666 , 39.png )
653103

Chak is unresponsive to all questions.

“I do not work for Avigrade, so I am not above torturing you,” I say.

> “Ok. Just make sure you finish the job,” says Chak.



>Why can’t Anqqi just go around your base?

She can. I do not know why she has not tried yet, but I suspect because she has insufficient intel. For all she knows, we could have a direct line of communication to a standing army. The size of my facility also suggests a much larger garrison than I actually have.



>Can the princess help with interrogation?

How could she possibly help?
>>
No. 653104 ID: ab7529

>How could she possibly help?
Dunno. Maybe she'll surprise you with some insight or idea. Worst case, she can provide nothing, with leaves you in the same position.
>>
No. 653105 ID: 742b4a

>>653103
He seems eager to die. Why is that?
>>
No. 653107 ID: c01a15
File 143606887788.png - (12.41KB , 900x666 , 40.png )
653107

“Why are you so eager to die?”

> “I have seen your meager force here. If you release me, I will return to my people and tell them that the road west is safe. I have to. You would do the same in my position. If I tell you what I know, then you still must kill me. That is how I know my death is near.”

Brazen. My people would sing their praises of a warrior like this. What will we do with him?
>>
No. 653108 ID: 742b4a

>>653107
It's worth noting that he DID just spill that "his people" need to get past. This wasn't a random raid, that's one piece of information we have now. Don't tell him that though.

Tell him he didn't consider a third option. You keep him alive, repeatedly torturing him. Ask him why his people didn't just ask for safe passage.
>>
No. 653109 ID: d90668

Ask him what threatens his people so much that they risk attacking here?

Maybe we share a common enemy. Who knows if they are trustworthy but its not like we have many choices.
>>
No. 653117 ID: c01a15
File 143607154334.png - (16.86KB , 900x666 , 41.png )
653117

“Why risk your lives to invade the west?”

> “Save your questions for the torture cell.”

“Very well. Take him to The Shard.”

One of my soldiers steps up and leads Chak to the tower. Fargo orders his remaining unit to begin burying the dead. I remain alone with the princess.
>>
No. 653118 ID: c01a15
File 143607155998.png - (15.80KB , 900x666 , 42.png )
653118

Princess Prettybeak pokes her head out from my cloak.

“What did we learn from that exchange?”

> “He must work for Anqqi,” she says.

“Why?”

> “Because he mentioned an invasion to the west. It… it wouldn’t be too likely for anyone else to be planning that.”

“Correct. It is very important information, but we need more. We need time and place, we need the size of the army, where they will strike, and who will be leading it. How do we extract that information from the prisoner?”

> “T-torture?”

“Perhaps. It may prove fruitful, or it may prove to be a waste of valuable time. Learn to speak up.”

> “O-ok-”

“Say yes sir.”

> “Y-”

“Louder.”

> “Yes sir.”

“Shout. In battle you need to shout.”

> “YES SIR.”

“You will bunk with the soldiers.”

> “But-”

“When you are under my care, you are not a princess. You are one of my troops. When we are finished, you will be a hardened warrior, and hardened warriors do not sleep on feather beds.”

The sooner I can train her, the better. Gaining the Cloud Cavalry could mean security for the west. I will begin her training in the morning with…

A. Combat - Training the princess to fight on foot and on hourseback.
B Command - Training the princess to command troops with confidence.
C. Strategy - Training the princess in battlefield stratagems.
>>
No. 653121 ID: ab7529

>“You will bunk with the soldiers.”
...I sure hope the soldier are well disciplined. They might get the wrong idea, being stationed with a woman from Redhawk's domain.

>what do
Physical strength is obviously not her greatest natural asset. She'll need to learn something about direct combat eventually, but she is intended to be a leader, and her past training has been intellectual. We should start where he strengths lie, build some basic competence and confidence (which she sorely lacks) before forcing her where she is weak.

Which leaves B and C. I'm leaning C.
>>
No. 653123 ID: dbe554

She is too timid, B would be the best bet as we need to instill her with actual confidence in self and abilities and thus her ability to command and strategize will come more naturally to her.
>>
No. 653137 ID: 0df2ab

C.

Also, torture is overrated. It mostly makes them say whatever you want, even if that's crazy.

Threatening to torture them works okay, though.
>>
No. 653138 ID: 1cebc8

She's not ready for combat and she seems eager to learn strategy on her own. Command seems like the best bet for improvement. Give her a squad and see how they fare.

Make sure she talks to her new squad, they'll help her learn more.
>>
No. 653148 ID: 57d76a

>>653118
Wait, you don't get the army until after you've trained her? That sucks. I thought it was to be training her as you defend.

Any case, Command looks like the best first option. Try to pick a squad that'll respect her (once she's earned it).
>>
No. 653221 ID: c01a15
File 143612991768.png - (14.97KB , 900x666 , 43.png )
653221

Command it is, then. She is as shy as a child, and no successful commander has ever been shy.

“The princess will be quartering with you all tonight. If you touch her, I will personally take you to the highest room of the tower and throw you out the window. Is that understood?”

> “YES SIR!”

I will be waking her tomorrow at dawn with a unit of soldiers. I will take them out to the field and have her drill them until she is comfortable doing so.

I leave her to the barracks and take the steps up to the highest room where I sleep and meditate.
>>
No. 653222 ID: c01a15
File 143612993985.png - (10.58KB , 900x666 , 44.png )
653222

> “Hugo.”

“Shyala, a-”

> “Is our son alive?”

“He is.”

> “I want you to task me with something. If I am barred in this bedroom for one more day, I will slay the guards and leave myself.”

“Shyala I… I really cannot bear the thought of you being harmed. This is for your own safety.”

> “I would sooner be free than safe. You have not married a weakling, my love. You wouldn’t.”
>>
No. 653224 ID: d90668

Have her train with the princess. Don't make your wife go crazy.
>>
No. 653226 ID: 1cebc8

Tell your wife not to hold back on the hugs.
>>
No. 653237 ID: dbe554

As it is, you know she will be very serious with her threat if you coop her up. She would rather do something then be what amounts to hidden away.

Though having that help your training with the princess would be decent, as it would give her a method to do something, and keep her own skills sharp. Though she may desire more outside the tower.
>>
No. 653240 ID: ab7529

...I could never refuse you anything. All I've done is bought time.
>>
No. 653258 ID: 043d60

>>653222
she's right. better her be able to defend herself than to have her sit and atrophy
>>
No. 653262 ID: c01a15
File 143613804728.png - (16.70KB , 900x666 , 45.png )
653262

“I have an Immat princess in my custody. One of Redhawk’s own daughters. I want you to help me to train her to be a commander.” I explain to Shyala how I came into the princess’ company, and what the reward will be for helping her.

> “Very well. I will.”

“It will be no easy task. She is an utter weakling with no taste for combat or command. We will need to work in shifts commanding the tower and training the girl.”
>>
No. 653263 ID: c01a15
File 143613806044.png - (10.14KB , 900x666 , 46.png )
653263

> “I will ensure that she is set straight.”

I should never have kept Shyala guarded in here. I have had a warhawk in my midst for so long, and never let her out of the loft. No longer. We go to sleep for the early awakening.
>>
No. 653264 ID: c01a15
File 143613809942.png - (39.39KB , 900x666 , 48.png )
653264

*wilhelm scream*

Dawn.
>>
No. 653265 ID: c01a15
File 143613812090.png - (16.50KB , 900x666 , 47.png )
653265

I summon the Princess to the parade grounds outside of The Shard. The dirt still reeks of blood from the previous day’s battle. The first shift of my garrison is training while the rest eat breakfast, and then they will switch places. I must devise a way to teach Princess how to command effectively and confidently.
>>
No. 653266 ID: ed37ab

play a game of chess [or whatever this world's equivalent is] with her
>>
No. 653267 ID: 334db2

...I take it someone didn't keep their hands to themselves?

In retrospect, we should have taught her strategy first so she knows what to do with an army before she takes charge of one. Have her shadow us for a little bit.
>>
No. 653269 ID: 742b4a

>>653264
...one of the soldiers touched the Princess?

>>653265
Have her drill the soldiers. Make them march for starters, then once she's gotten over her nerves stage a mock battle with you commanding a force and her commanding one. Practice formations and troop movements and all that.
>>
No. 653276 ID: 1cebc8

>>653264
What.

>>653265
Have you selected a squad yet?
>>653265
>>
No. 653283 ID: ed29df

One cannot command others who cannot command themselves. The Princess should develop her athleticism and combat ability. Her potential effectiveness as a warrior is likely inconsequential, but it will give her confidence and may save her something some day. Fortunately, this will take some time, so she should not develop too soon into confidence enough to make her difficult to instruct. Besides, one shouldn't command troops in combat until one has experienced for themselves the trials of heavy equipment, pain, fear and exhaustion that one's soldiers will be contending with. This will only be a fraction of her overall training, but likely an essential one.

As she will likely be suffering repeated failures in the physical and social dimensions of command, at least to begin, she should also be given something she's likely to be good at. Do you have any books on tactics, or on records of past battles that you could have her study? Some academic study will likely be a relative comfort to her.
>>
No. 653348 ID: fbd0a8

>>653269
I second the idea to train her in that way. Also, are there bags, and is there sand lying around?
>>
No. 653465 ID: c01a15
File 143621237194.png - (22.91KB , 900x666 , 49.png )
653465

The troops have lined up in a loose formation in front of us.

“You are all to take Prettybeak’s command now. She will be overseeing all of your drills this morning. Dissenters to her command will face punishment.”

> “Y-you’re going to punish anyone who doesn’t do what I say?” asks the Princess.

“No,” I reply. “you are.”

> “I am? Well… ok I guess. I don’t really know how to do that. Uh… They need to tighten their lines and coordinate their strikes better. They took too long to form up during the battle, and that’s why so many of them died when you took over command.”

I didn’t think she was paying that much attention.
>>
No. 653466 ID: c01a15
File 143621238630.png - (9.75KB , 900x666 , 50.png )
653466

> “Ok… ok! Uh… form… a chevron!”

The troops shuffle into place, taking nearly half a minute to form a semi-solid point. The princess was right.
>>
No. 653496 ID: ab7529

>Uh… They need to tighten their lines and coordinate their strikes better. They took too long to form up during the battle, and that’s why so many of them died when you took over command.
Good. She's intelligent. You just need to mold her into something that can put that to good use.

>The troops shuffle into place, taking nearly half a minute to form a semi-solid point. The princess was right.
Then she needs to drill her troops to correct that.
>>
No. 653502 ID: 1cebc8

Smart cookie.

She needs to be more assertive. Have her use a whip, baton, or hand gestures to emphasize her point.
>>
No. 653503 ID: e114bc

>>653466
Drill them. Start implementing a time limit. Those still trying to get into formation after a certain time have to do pushups or something.
>>
No. 653525 ID: 557bac

have her run them through drills until they can coordinate. Have her cut rations for those that can't keep up.
>>
No. 654295 ID: c01a15
File 143646540403.png - (10.69KB , 900x666 , 51.png )
654295

The morning shadows have grown shorter. After four hours of drilling, the first unit of light infantry is able to form up, rotate, and consolidate quickly. The princess has taken to shouting a bit more comfortably, but there is still occasional hesitation in her voice. It has grown raspy, and she is physically tired.

This will not do. Battles can last days, and after only a few hours she is fatigued.
>>
No. 654296 ID: e114bc

Time to switch to physical training.
>>
No. 654307 ID: c01a15
File 143646760127.png - (14.49KB , 900x666 , 52.png )
654307

“It is time for your physical training. Get ready.”

> “Wh-what? Today? Already? I can’t! It’s so hot!”

A messenger approaches, and my attention is turned away from the Princess momentarily.
>>
No. 654308 ID: c01a15
File 143646764880.png - (21.24KB , 900x666 , 53.png )
654308

The messenger is my head scout, Rousso. So far, he is the only one in my company who seems to revel in his military service.

> “Finished scoutin’, sir. I pr’pose we call a small meetin’.”

This is information that I have been waiting for. Should I continue training the princess, or call a meeting? Unfortunately, this is not information that I can share with the princess.
>>
No. 654309 ID: 153bce

get her doing some light exercises to get her stamina up while you do the meeting, perhaps getting her to join the men in light training.
>>
No. 654313 ID: d33018

Have her take the troops on some light exercises. Maybe some practice marching in formation around the tower. She can march alongside of them and tell them when to move.

Just make sure to remind her to take plenty of water breaks so no one gets heatstroke.
>>
No. 654314 ID: 1cebc8

Lunch break for Prettybeak. Go to the meeting.
>>
No. 654316 ID: a63c95

Get Shyala to take over for the physical training, if you don't think you'd need her at the meeting.
>>
No. 654317 ID: a7b14c

>>654309
She can't join the men in training yet, she's too weak.
Have her just do light exercises to warm up while you take your meeting.
>>
No. 654325 ID: e114bc

>>654308
Your wife can take over training, that's something you suggested already.
>>
No. 654355 ID: ab7529

You can give the princess her exercise assignment, and then go off to the meeting.
>>
No. 655436 ID: c01a15
File 143674152827.png - (39.77KB , 900x666 , 54.png )
655436

“I will leave you with Shyala to complete your physical training for the day. She is commander in my absence. She has the authority to carry out punishment, and will not hesitate to do so.”

> “Y-yes SIR!”

Were it not for this burdensome princess, I would have Shyala join us. Her additional insight could prove valuable if thing have gone badly in the east. I follow Rousso up to the greatroom near the top of the tower. He spreads a map of his travels onto the glass-topped table in the center.
>>
No. 655437 ID: c01a15
File 143674156721.png - (15.95KB , 900x666 , 55.png )
655437

> “Here’s what we’re lookin at. Anqqi attempted to move ‘er army west through Pilos, but only made it as far as Dancin’-Flea. She ‘stained heavy losses there and she isn’t going any further. My guess is she’ll come down your way next with an army.”

Rousso erupts in a fit of coughing, and spits on the floor.

> “I finished collectin’ the tax revenue from the villages, too. 14,511 grimps between th’m all.”

“Very well. What else?”

> “Rufio Ortise’s fielded a small army.”

“For what purpose?”

> “Dunno. Couldn’t get a straight answer outta anybody.”

“Have they departed for anywhere?”

> “Nawh. Fuckers are drilling and training outside’v Als Eyvor.”

Hmmmmmmmmm. First I need to decide what to do with the tax revenue.

A) Pay the troops
B) Fortify the tower
C) [OTHER]
>>
No. 655442 ID: 61fc75

pay the troops, morale is probably low enough as-is.
send someone out to see what rufio is up to, leave no variable unchecked.
>>
No. 655454 ID: 1cebc8

With all the casualties, you can expect desertion if you don't give your troops incentive. Set up an information board, see if anyone has any good ideas of where to find affordable yet competent gear - if your troops waste their money on con artists, they'll be understocked and pissed.
>>
No. 655518 ID: e114bc

Don't blow ALL the money on the troops.
>>
No. 655592 ID: d080c3

Pay partly to the troops, explaining that what is not being paid is being spent on things that will keep them alive. Spend most of what remains on fortificaton. Keep some small part for emergencies.
>>
No. 655914 ID: 487a03

You can't win a war with no troops. They'll only be resentful if they are expected to defend your newly upgraded tower while they're not getting paid. It's harder to defend a newly upgraded tower when your troops desert.
>>
No. 656805 ID: c01a15
File 143727144610.png - (13.64KB , 900x666 , 56.png )
656805

>pay the troops

I will pay them, but I will withhold 20% of the revenue to put toward future fortifications. Additional revenue sources will be necessary. In the meantime, I will focus on training the princess. Access to the Cloud Cavalry is invaluable to my cause.

“Rousso, your work is crucial to my outpost. Let me give you your wage.”

> “Not necessary, sir. Gimme enough scratch for just a half gallon of rum and two… ehg… three Bilk prostitutes. Then we’ll call it even.”

“Very well. It’s done.”

14,511 grimps, less about 25 for Rousso’s demands, leaves 14,486. I’ll set aside 2,897 for outpost fortification, and distribute the remaining 11,588 among the 221 troops. The troops will expect about 52 grimps every two weeks. There is not much for them to spend it on out east.
>>
No. 656821 ID: a19cd5

>>656805
Let's go look at fortification options.
>>
No. 656822 ID: 1cebc8

How much is a grimp worth?
A) Price of one meal of rations
B) Price of adequate weapons
C) Price of a cart and horse
D) Price of a house
E) Average citizen's yearly requirements
F) How much you have in your personal coffers

Look for a professional merchant, see if you can find gear for your army.
>>
No. 656828 ID: c01a15
File 143727728195.png - (19.46KB , 900x666 , 57.png )
656828

>>656821
>>656822

To give some estimates [& = grimps]:

1. New Armor and weapons, plus enough mounts for 5% of my garrison: &25,000
2. A four meter stone wall plus a trench around The Shard: &30,000
3. A company of 300 trained and armed mercenaries: &50,000
>>
No. 656830 ID: e114bc

>>656828
What about just... some bows? Archers are cheap to equip, iirc.
>>
No. 656833 ID: d4e5cb

You could put out the word that any soldiers volunteering to forego part of their pay would be noted and appreciated, and the pay put towards purchasing things that will keep them alive.
>>
No. 656839 ID: c01a15
File 143727833011.png - (15.64KB , 900x666 , 58.png )
656839

I could outfit a unit of 75 archers with quality bows and arrows for about &2,500. I would need to appoint my master-at-arms to train them, which would be very time-intensive. I can have Shyala train the heavy infantry, and I will train the light infantry myself. The princess could alternate between shadowing the three of us.

>>656833
I can propose this, but I do not think that it would be a well received request.
>>
No. 656843 ID: 1cebc8

You need technology. Think about it; you are defending a giant spike in the ground. If you can utilize the power of your defensive position (the shard) with mortar technology (catapult bombs from an elevated position), you might be able to weather the remaining foes with almost no casualties.

Right now, fighting traditionally will get your remaining troops killed. You need to be smart about this or you'll waste your assets and manpower. Remember, any army will fall if you can destroy their cohesive elements. Shoot the brain, the rest of the body is literally too stupid to live. Destroy their supply lines and the army will desert or fight stupidly. Use all your assets - if you're forbidden from using the power of the shard, then just stick a catapult barrage to the top.
>>
No. 656864 ID: e114bc

>>656839
Uh

Okay forget equipment. Can you just, I don't know, hire some random civilians to go find out what Ortise is doing with his little army?

Maybe you two can join forces if you're lucky.
>>
No. 656930 ID: ebcefd

How well do archers even work against exoskeletons?

For defenses, could we move dirt from the edge of the crater to a mound around the base of the Shard* to make the crater into a moat? That way we could mostly use the Shard's walls and have a smaller perimeter to defend. Moving the dirt would be a lot of work, but we do have a small army.

* Since the door is at current ground level we might do something for that like make a ramp down to it and eventually build a wall around the ramp.
>>
No. 656931 ID: 18e03f

>>656864
Wrong Ortise. Enzo's the one in the church. Rufioh's the white dragon, or whatever the hell his moniker was. This doesn't necessarily mean joining forces is impossible, but I'd assume it's unlikely to work.
>>
No. 656984 ID: ebcefd

Another thing. I was thinking about your previous interaction with the villagers and their chief, and it occurs to me that they do not understand how serious a threat you are protecting them from. I get the impression from what the chief said that Anqqi's last war was long ago and far away, and the infantry acted like most of them had never even seen a Ganthu. Remind the people why our harsh methods are necessary, why we are necessary. Take the corpse of the most menacingly hulking, bladed, armor plated raider available and put it on display in the village. Tell them that this is what is coming and that the bug-men are not merciful. Perhaps it might cause a panic, but better that they be terrified of a real danger than oblivious to it and uncooperative.
>>
No. 657009 ID: c01a15
File 143735436631.png - (7.26KB , 900x666 , 59.png )
657009

>use crater defensively
The problem is that the entrance is below ground level, down at the base of the crater. The reason that we station troop formations outside of the crater is to avoid giving attackers the high ground. Positioning troops anywhere within the crater would be tactically unwise.

>join forces with Ortise
As I mentioned earlier, I have sent numerous messenger birds to Als Eyvor to petition Rufio Ortise for help. There has been no reply.

>inform villagers of the nature of the threat
I have considered this, and the decision remains difficult. Telling the people would make some more motivated to defend their homes. The majority of people, however, are prone to panic, mob-mentality, and stupidity. I have little concrete evidence to show of an impending threat from the east, and I lack the support of any titans or realm authorities on the existence of a threat.
>>
No. 657010 ID: bd8b82

hmm... SPIIIIKES! add spikes in the crater that can catch an unwary charge down it, destroying it's momentum. the troops will know where the traps are but a foe will be skewered.
>>
No. 657015 ID: c01a15
File 143735717421.png - (8.66KB , 900x666 , 60.png )
657015

>spikes
This may be a decent idea. The problem lies in if my troops are backed against the crater and pushed in. I would have to train them to flank enemy formations to then push them into the pits. It is an inexpensive fortification that comes at very low cost, but is also a hazard. Provided the correct training is done, it could work to our favor.

Before I pay the troops and descend to the yard to resume the day’s training, I need to make a crucial decision: should I attempt to inform my people of the imminent threat from the east? At best, it will inspire them to stand up for their land, and at worst it may induce panic and chaos.
>>
No. 657018 ID: c4d90f

>>657010
Outwards facing pointed logs are a fortification staple, after all. However, that is a lot of wood to cover even a sector of the crater...
>>
No. 657024 ID: 1cebc8

Don't forget the boiling oil trick. That helps.

I got an idea: every day you see enemy scouts, pour oil down the crater from the edges. Set it on fire at the base if the attackers get too close.

Even if you can only fire a few streams, the panic from literal "flaming pits" should bottleneck the enemy into easily targeted streams.
>>
No. 657035 ID: bd8b82

start with the upper ranks. inform them about it and see what they think. a Sergeant from the area of the common folk could more easily know the disposition of the people.
>>
No. 657044 ID: e114bc

I'm not sure how much fortifying the spire is really going to help. I mean, in the case of a siege, part of the army can bypass the spire, or report back that we're pinned down.

Putting in traps that we can lure attackers into is a good idea though. Or simple fortifications near the edge, like wooden walls.
>>
No. 657074 ID: 01aa3d

Can you station the archers in the spire? are there enough windows for them to fire out of?
>>
No. 657095 ID: 0f4536

>The problem is that the entrance is below ground level, down at the base of the crater.
Could we account for entrance access building a ramp spiraling around the edge of the edge of the tower, and then fill in the rest of the middle of the crater? (Diagram in questdis)
I suppose just carving a new entrance is ruled out by either the material being too strong to carve or such a hole making it structurally unsound?

>should I attempt to inform my people of the imminent threat from the east?
I vote you do so. Scared people can do irrational things, but when it is an external threat they tend to be more likely to support militaristic authority than turn against it. Besides, the people will most likely find out the truth eventually, and it is better that they have their panicked surprise now than when raiders slip past us and beat down their doors. And if worst comes to worst, if our fort falls advanced warning will give the people somewhat more of a chance to flee. I think an attack by a squad of Ganthu and the corpses to show for it should be fairly convincing, and if we still need more evidence we might try to get a messenger from Uuhg to back us up about the threat.
>>
No. 657124 ID: c01a15
File 143741487702.png - (65.05KB , 900x666 , 61.png )
657124

This is a good line of thinking for defense of such a difficult feature. I am sure that I can build on it. The obstacles are: gathering enough wood to support the tunnel to the door and gathering enough spikes to line the crater. The desert is nearly devoid of wood. If I can get those materials, then I can set this plan into motion.

>station archers on the spire
The tower lacks enough windows to position archers. That was part of the appeal of the surrounding wall.

>tell the people about the oncoming threat
Very well. I will do this as quickly as possible.

>petition Uuhg for evidence
Uuhg has refused to do more than speak with me over the past few weeks, but I will continue to try.
>>
No. 657125 ID: c01a15
File 143741488984.png - (8.08KB , 900x666 , 62.png )
657125

It has become clear that there is little I can do while remaining stationed here at The Shard. I will need to venture west again in search of supplies and assistance. Spreading word about the coming danger of Anqqi the Legged among the plainfolk will require some creativity. My reputation there is as a cruel and self-serving tyrant, and my desperate need for conscripts has not helped with that. Among other things, I need to haul several tons of wood, fortify a nearly indefensible tower, torture a stalwart prisoner, and turn a meek princess into a hero.

This will all take staggering amounts of work. All of us will have very hard lives from now on. Nothing will be easy. That is why Anqqi should fear us.



END CHAPTER SIX
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