Lin 2011/09/24(Sat)00:19 No. 351892 ID: a9ba96
File 131684875743.jpg - (110.16KB , 842x612 , e8c73783.jpg )

When chaos and despair consume the lands from west to east
The paladins will always stand as upholders of peace
The goddess watches over us until the day is won
And those who die while fighting die as martyrs for her son...

Lin 2011/09/24(Sat)00:20 No. 351893 ID: a9ba96
File 131684881948.jpg - (21.80KB , 1024x768 , 9c83782c.jpg )

And those who... die while...

Lin 2011/09/24(Sat)00:21 No. 351894 ID: a9ba96
File 131684889041.jpg - (295.37KB , 1024x768 , c2113da1.jpg )

"...nnrk..."
>"Oh, I was wondering when you were going to wake up."
"Faer? Wh..."
>"We're at camp. When the others saw that we'd caught Tur and Furor, there was a grand celebration."
"I... I don't... remember any celebration."
>"That... doesn't exactly surprise me, all things considered..."
"Shit, how bad was it?"
>"Oh uh, it wasn't too bad."
"Wait a...Why am I on the table?"
>"Well, it was better than last time. There was no singing this time around."
"..."

They say the only thing that hits harder than Dwarven Firecrackers is Dwarven ale. 

Can't say I'm particularly inclined to disagree with that one.

he has a pretty drink. also, were you dreaming? something about an orc invasion and you standing to fight it off. rather heroic.

anyway, if you don't have a hangover yet you should get something that makes it less horrid while you can. if you do then make him go get something.

OH GOD LOOK AT HOW FRUITY FAER'S DRINK IS. IT'S SO ADORABLE. Also since you're probably pretty hung over at the moment, you should drink it. Hair of the Bearhound that bit you or something? Otherwise... aside from those two, what about Eline and Mary? And where's your pal Huge-gor?

>>351894
Mock his little girly man drink.

wait, don't we know that guy? is he the one who messed up your face?

>>351909
No, I am pretty sure the huge guy is Warpath McDarkOverlord. The one with the eye pendants, remember?

>>351955
[SHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH]

>>351955

yeah, that's what I was asking. if he was the one who wounded Lin. kinda relevant to us, innit?

PS: I'm just playin' Lin, your scars are sexy as hell.

>>351955
>>351958
both of you SHUT UP! she doesn't know about the pendants, telling her will get eline in serious trouble!

I'm quite all right with getting Eline in serious trouble. Let's be honest, she deserves it. Adorable little girl or no, she's a gifted mage who refused to actually go to school and learn to be responsible for her powers and instead went out and became a tool for people to use to accomplish nefarious deeds. Oh but it's okay, since she's so NICE, right? I don't really care how "nice" Eline is or how nice Eline thinks Mary is, what matters is what they do.

>>351975
She was a little girl who escaped the lifetime prison sentence she faced because of who her parents were, and clung to whoever was willing to help her.

You're confusing education with indoctrination, and she has only shown herself to lack wisdom, not knowledge.

>>351979
>Lifetime Imprisonment
Where you getting that from, buddy? And by Education I did MEAN learning responsibility and all that. Don't nitpick on the details. I don't care if she thought things were unfair for her. By both her nature and her actions she's someone with a lot of power, and she's shown a remarkable lack of willingness to be responsible for that power.

Lin 2011/09/24(Sat)19:00 No. 352184 ID: a9ba96
File 131691602478.jpg - (215.04KB , 768x803 , fffb053a.jpg )

Ugh, sorry, but I didn't catch all of that. I have one hell of a headache right now, so making all of you guys out at once is kinda tough. Something about eyes, and El... 

Wait a second, you guys are back? Interesting. I had Faer take a look at you guys earlier, but we're not sure how to turn you on and off. Faer gave a big speech about contextual activation or something, but most of it flew right over my head. For now, I guess you just blink on and off at random.And... If I head you right, you can see bits of dreams, apparently. Sorry to disappoint you if you were looking to analyze the last dream, but that one wasn't anything special. I dream about invasions and battles all the time, really - Orcs, Goblins, Barbarians, Zombies, Drow on a really good night... Big armored guy was new though. Looked like a heavily armored Ogre or something.

I should probably catch you up on a few things. Mary's gonna be fine, but she's refusing to talk to anyone. We haven't judged Mary or her buddies The Pack yet. There was gonna be a party after we did, but a messenger came with orders from the High Knight himself, saying to delay the judgement ritual until he arrived. So... I guess we threw the party a bit early.

"Hey, uh... how long until the High Knight gets here?"
>"You still have a few hours before he gets here, I think. In the meantime, the camp's demonologist wanted to get a look at you. I told him about your run-in with Zebble earlier, and he just wanted to make sure you were alright. And uh... I haven't seen Hyugore since the party, and I was hoping you would help me look for him."
"Sure thing... but, speaking of things that are missing, any idea where the top half of my armor is right now?"
>"Oh! Uh, yes. You probably should have full armor on when the High Knight arrives. I'm... Not exactly sure where that went."
"Wonderful."

Well then, looks like we've got a few hours to check in with the Demonologist, find Hyugore, and locate the upper half of my armor. I'm not... Particularly in the mood for thinking too much right now, so how about I let you guys decide which one we tackle first. I'll explain what's happened since we left a bit more on the way.

>>352184
Ask Faer if he can start asking around about your chestplate while you get checked out by the demonologist.

Oh, while you're there how about you go ahead and ask the demonologist about Hobgoblins.
Should be fun.

I vote for checking on the prisoners. Generally speaking, our being present means something big's going to happen soon, and while the High Knight showing up and your whole Judgment Ritual might qualify for that, a Prison Break might as well.

yeah, we are drawn by fate and shit. oh and make sure you declare us to the demonologist before she goes off about sensing a presence about you. don't want them thinking something is wrong because you have a talking ball.

>>352184
Let's talk to the Demonologist!

And I'm pretty sure that dream was prophetic, because that looked very much like Warpath the Unstoppable.

Lin 2011/09/25(Sun)15:44 No. 352543 ID: 3bad51
File 131699069174.jpg - (110.16KB , 499x562 , 9f498dbe.jpg )

"Faer, I'm gonna check in with the camp's demonologist. Think you could ask around about my armor while I'm there? We can figure out where the big man went afterwards."
>"Alright."
"See you in a bit."
>Wait..."
"Hm?"
>"Well erm, I... well, I was thinking that, pertaining to the previous night's festivities, the... well, following the LAST celebration we attended, and, correct me if I'm wrong, I do remember having a conversation pertaining to you and uh, personal restraint that, taking the events of last night into consideration I think may have been... uh, forgotten? Perhaps? I'm not going to accuse you of ignoring it, and if you did that would be uh, that would be partially my fault..."
"Faer."
>"...and, of course, that all pertains to the conversation having actually occurred, which, I may be mistaking about! Perhaps I only said to myself "I should probably address matters of personal restraint with Lin" but never got around to it which is very much a possibility..."
"Faer."
>"But my point is that, well, as a friend sometimes I get a bit worried about... well, "problems" certainly isn't the right word, but perhaps "habits?" Certain habits that, erm, for example, I think the simple fact that you woke up this morning on a table with half your armor and no recollection of your actions the previous... erm, well, I think the point is that I just wanted to uh, perhaps discuss some concerns of mine about, uh, well..."
"Faer. Can... whatever it is you're going on about wait a bit?"
>"Oh! Uh, yes. very well."

Gods, sometimes that elf really does worry me.

Lin 2011/09/25(Sun)15:46 No. 352544 ID: 3bad51
File 131699076480.jpg - (180.62KB , 815x763 , 37543592.jpg )

>Hobgoblins
It's a demonologist, so I'm not sure if that would be his field, but sure, I'll humor you on that one. You usually don't suggest things without reason.

>Warpath
Hmm? That's uh... What? Orkish folklore, I think? Ancient Knight, Killed Garbag the Great, Destroyed tribe Grool? I'd have to ask Faer - I'm not too keen on Orc history, but yeah, I've heard that one before.

Big black armor... Horned Helmet... Hmm, that would fit the description, but I don't really see how that would be prophetic unless the guy had managed to live a few thousand years and spontaneously decided to invade Ution. 

Lin 2011/09/25(Sun)15:46 No. 352545 ID: 3bad51
File 131699081199.jpg - (61.89KB , 504x593 , 6d2b2b43.jpg )

"Hello?"

Lin 2011/09/25(Sun)15:47 No. 352546 ID: 3bad51
File 131699085956.jpg - (156.59KB , 634x768 , 0b6e6930.jpg )

>"Ahhh... there you are. I was hoping that I'd get a chance to see you before the High Knight arrived."

>Check us in with the Demonologist
You know, I really don't have any clue what you actually are. Would you guys mind if I let the camp demonologist get a quick look at you? Not sure what his procedures would be, but it may help shed some light on figuring out how you work.

>>352546
I don't see a problem with it.

>>352543
I'd say Faer is crushing on you hard, but given how long he's been by your side I think it's much more likely that it's actual love.
You really should talk to him about it.

>>352544
The legends may or may not have mentioned that his power came from a demonic pact. Demons can grant immortality.

>>352546
Man, why's it so dark in here? Makes this guy seem totally creepy and a bit villainous.
I guess we had better get checked out, but please don't leave us alone with him.

as long as it doesn't involve cracking us open and looking at our insides.

Pretty sure as a paladin you're rather obligated to try to be as honest as possible and try to obtain the truth. So yeah, go ahead.

OH GOD I COMPLETELY FORGOT. WHAT THE FUCK ABOUT THE CHANGELING?!

Lin 2011/09/25(Sun)19:29 No. 352613 ID: a9ba96
File 131700415201.jpg - (65.62KB , 447x731 , 0478a52e.jpg )

>Ath
Ath hit it off with the other paladins pretty well. He chatted with some for a bit, then went to the tents when the party started. Told me he didn't drink. Besides thaaw shit, I never actually got around to telling the others about the changeling thing. With the festivities and what not, it... must have slipped my mind. Well get on that... Hopefully, it won't be too big a problem...

>"Now, if I understand correctly, you've recently had a very close encounter with a powerful demon, yes? I told your elf friend earlier tat I was interested in running some tests to ensure that the demon hasn't caused any... well, to make sure everything's alright."
"Sure, but... I wanted you to take a look at this, first."
>What's that?"
"That's kinda what I was hoping you could tell me. I found it during my last patrol- it's full of voices that have been providing advice."
>D...Demonic advice!?"
"Hah, I don't think so. They've actually been pretty helpful, so far."
>"You fool! Give me that right now!"

Namskul 2011/09/25(Sun)19:31 No. 352615 ID: a9ba96
File 131700427039.jpg - (74.70KB , 574x683 , 4e665e5d.jpg )

>"Hey! Hold on a second!"
"Do you have any idea how dangerous something like this could be? Have you even considered that this artifact may be connected to the Abyss, as a tool for demons to whisper in your ear?"
>"I don't really think that that's the case..."
"An artifact like this likely responds to cognitive patterns - the demons within growing mightier with each thought it reads! With how long it's been connected to you, we may have reached a point where the only way to exorcise the demons within would be to give them a sudden, unexpected cognitive overload!"
>"Listen, I've been wearing the thing for a day now. I think I would have sensed demonic presence if the thing was evil."
"Stand back young lady! I must drive off these demons with intense thought!"

HNNNNNNNNNNNNNNGH

Namskul 2011/09/25(Sun)19:32 No. 352616 ID: a9ba96
File 131700432125.jpg - (83.67KB , 1024x768 , 31aae678.jpg )

HNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHH

...Um... Hello...

uhhh, do devils normally foil other devils? we helped beat zebble. and it was us that got ath recruited. if we were devils why would we increase the ranks of the paladins?

Oh my God, the look on your face. Priceless. Anywho, WE ARE NOT DEMONS. All we can do is talk. We just wanted to see if you have any idea how we work.

Hello there my good man. Don't worry about us trying to do evil. We tend to be more chaotic than anything else.

So... how are things?

>>352615
Err... Are you sure you're really a demonologist? And not, you know, some guy who has read one too many fantasy novels? Because I'm pretty sure nothing works that way.

>>352616
Hey, are you ok? It looks like you're about to blow a blood vessel or something.

I'm like 99% sure we're not demonic, and almost 50% sure we're souls denied our eternal rest (Which is fine by us, since we enjoy riding along with people)

>>352616
You're hilarious. We're not demons! Ever hear of a pair of artifacts like us? Two halves, where the voices can only communicate from one of them at a time? Some goblin had us for a while, but couldn't speak to us apparently, and we don't remember anything that happened before we were taken from him.

Namskul 2011/09/25(Sun)20:59 No. 352645 ID: a9ba96
File 131700954471.jpg - (80.18KB , 605x703 , 6e7bc735.jpg )

What's that? You're not demons? You... helped fight a demon?

That changes things a bit. Allow me to introduce myself, voiceball!

I am Doctor Namskul, Demonologist!

Namskul 2011/09/25(Sun)21:03 No. 352647 ID: a9ba96
File 131700983147.jpg - (74.36KB , 503x740 , d517aa5d.jpg )

>Are you sure you're a real demonologist?
Am I a real Demonologist? Do elves have big ears? Do humans have small ears from the perspective of an Elf? Do Half-Elves have medium-sized ears from the perspective of both humans and elves? I have asked four questions, and the answer to all of them is "yes!"

I assure you, magical talking ball, that I am as qualified a demonologist as any. In fact, probably more so than most - I spent five years possessed by a demon myself, so I know the ins and outs of how they work. The Sons of De Jústus hired me on as their demonologist after helping expel the foul demon from by body, and I have been traveling between paladin camps in the Outlands, studying demons and demon-based afflictions for the past thirty years! 

My apologies for being so quick to judge, it's just that I already found one ball that... wait, should I be... Ah, what the heck, I'll let you in on my secret, but you gotta promise not to tell anyone, okay?

You see, last night after the party, I was watching the paladins in the female camp while they slept uh, because demonic possession commonly occurs when you sleep. The young girl whose mother is coming to pick her up today, Eline, they were letting her sleep in the girls' camp, and usually I wouldn't have paid much attention to her since she's a bit too young for mfor demons to hold interest in. But I noticed something around her neck - an eyeball, just staring back at me.

So I plucked it off while she slept and lo and behold, it's a demonic Artifact! I get visions of an armored demon from the Abyss, who started ranting about conquest and scouting. I plan to show it to the High Knight today. Until then, the eyeball has been safely stashed away in my undergarments for safe keeping! 

that was warpath not a demon. the eye is just a link. taking it probably made him mad at you personally. and putting it in your underwear probably made it worse. he is going to kill you so hard when he comes.
we know this cause we talked to him already and managed to make him pick a slightly less outright destructive path. so yeah, good job dude, you pissed off an immortal (basically demigod) of war.

Yeah, I know you have the best of intentions, but Warpath is very dangerous. Have you heard of hobgoblins? This fellow is an immortal one who did some pretty big things. Including kicking the rear of an entire orc tribe and quite possibly killing a giant.

However, right now he's playing nice. He's going to come, but he's coming in a certain way at a certain time. We want to basically make it so that you guys have a chance to stop him before it's too late. Heck, he wants that as well.

Problem is, we don't know what happens when he gets mad. I do not know about you, but when someone who's a living god decides to stop playing nice, very few people walk away smiling.

For now, I suggest you give that eyeball back to the girl. It won't possess her so you have no worries of that and right now she's the best holder of that eye.

also, have you met Ath? new paladin, joined right after being freed from a devil.

last thing, when you give it back say "the orb told me to." she will understand, she met us too.

>>352647
Ugh, yes, we knew about Warpath's eye and his plan to invade. We were trying to convince him to change his strategy to something you would be better prepared to fight, so taking it away right now just made things worse.
Well, since the damage is done you probably should hand it over to the High Knight. Also tell him that Warpath can see and hear everything around it or the one who holds it, which is why it was so much safer to leave it with Eline and let her stay with Mary since then the immortal warlord bent on conquering this land and plunging it into eternal torment wouldn't have seen much of anything beyond the medical tent and prisoner area. As opposed to, you know, everything there is to see in a demonologist's office.
It didn't occur to you that an animated eye pendant might be a scrying focus?

Moving right along...
As far as Eline goes? It's best if she not return home. She was miserable there, and it seems like she may have been subject to abuse. More importantly, she's also been afflicted by whatever Warpath uses to make people do his bidding. Imagine, if you will, the consequences of him subverting her entire order to his will.
We need to make sure it's safe for her to return home on both counts before we can even consider allowing it to happen.

That is, of course, completely ignoring the... sensitive nature of her relationship with Mary. Eline and Mary are rather devoted to each other, and that should be considered when weighing the options.

Can we count on you to see to it that Eline is kept here until these concerns are addressed?

that's not exactly a sectret, dude. we had a chat with the guy when our other ball touched Eline's ball.

yes, we actually have two balls, and yes, it's a bit gay when I put it like that... but there you go.

>>352647
Oh come on, there's no way you're a real Demonologist. Devils don't behave like that, and they sure as hell don't look like that!

>>352647
Why is everyone opening up to a man who hasn't even had proper daemonology training? He's just another Lockhart.

>>352739
Well, to be fair to him, Warpath is demonically empowered. That imprecision would be plausible, if a bit concerning in itself.

Important things to note.
-Eline is an ignorant girl who needs to be taught responsibility and discipline, but she's not meant to do any outright 'evil.' Rather, she just allows herself to be used by others with less pure intentions.
-As for the rest of The Pack, Mary's pretty much a common thief with a talent for being in the right place at the right time. Or, the wrong place at the wrong time, depending on your perspective. The elf and dwarf, though, really are criminals who ought to be fully prosecuted and given no leeway.
-Warpath is a big problem for you all. You have some of the gist of it but he's really capable of delivering on his threats of just wiping out a large section of Ution and setting up a dungeon just to see if there are any worthy individuals who would be able to challenge him.
-The Paladin recruit Ath is a paladin accepted by your deity but he is not what he seems. He is a Changeling and I advise that to be taken into consideration. He has committed crimes for which he has provided insufficient evidence or reasoning to imply he's innocent or even virtuous, yet he has been accepted as a paladin. Of specific note, in his crimes, are the willful dealing with a devil in creating a contract, as well as the willful attempt to 'marry' a human woman (with all that entails) knowing what happens to the offspring of one such as himself.
-More news at Nine.

>Ath's history
While Ath has had dealings with a demon, I'm sure that with your history with demons, you can sympathize with his struggle to reform. I think we can all agree that good people sometimes make mistakes, can't we.

I think Ath genuinely is trying to do better, hand having Namskul's support seems useful whether or not Namskul is legit.

Namskul 2011/09/26(Mon)19:30 No. 353051 ID: a9ba96
File 131709060158.jpg - (54.61KB , 435x756 , 24044ed2.jpg )

>You shoved the eye of an ancient warlord into your pants, dumbass.
Are... Are you sure? I mean... He seemed like a demon, to me. His eyes were glowing, and he had a really deep, booming voice. Which would also dot the description of someone who has made a demonic pact, true. And... And you say he is a large threat? Well, if this were simply a demon, placing his source of communication in my underwear would have solved the issue but if this is something bigger... Which is what you have implied...

>You aren't a real demonologist, are you?
Yes! Yes I am! Just because I haven't read the so-called experts' books doesn't mean that I'm not qualified! I base my work off of first hand experience! Just because the books say that there's "proper" ways to handle things doesn't mean they're the only way! Of course... if the eyeball in my undergarments isn't demonic, I may need some time to think about the proper method of dealing with it.

>Give it back
By the goddess, no! If this thing is a source of communication for this warlord, then the High Knight must see it! Then again... My treatment of his eye has probably made him angry, and returning it to the girl would probably appease him. I... will need some time to consider the situation...

>Also, new guy's a changeling. 
...Is that so? Again, not particuarly my field but... certainly something worth explaining to the High Knight when he arrives...

Namskul 2011/09/26(Mon)19:31 No. 353054 ID: a9ba96
File 131709069056.jpg - (93.33KB , 693x624 , 2105661e.jpg )

...Bah! I need more time to think things over! Had this been a simple demonic artifact, I could have dealt with it accordingly, but if what you're saying is true...

>"Uh, you're looking a bit stressed. Everything alright?"
"Fine. Everything is fine. It is not a demom, of this I am sure. I'm just going to set this aside for a minute while I ask you a few questions. I need to determine if the Demon has altered your mind."
>"Ask away."
"Question one - do you feel like a demon has altered your mind?"
>"...No."

Namskul 2011/09/26(Mon)19:32 No. 353055 ID: a9ba96
File 131709074649.jpg - (21.04KB , 1008x747 , c519eb58.jpg )

"Damn, that makes this a bit harder."

Lin 2011/09/26(Mon)19:33 No. 353058 ID: a9ba96
File 131709081220.jpg - (54.45KB , 379x609 , 6a0492fc.jpg )

>"Well, you seem fine to me. A pity, really. I was hoping to get some more research for my papers on Demons and their powers over the mind but... I guess that can wait until another day. Oh and... Take care of that artifact of yours. I feel it would be very dangerous if you got it talking with the wrong person."
"Um, sure thing."

...Alright, what the hell did you tell this guy?

he stole eline's eye necklace thing cause it looked at him. we told him that she wont like that and IT wont like it. not sure what it can do but making a talking eyeball mad is probably never a good idea. just told him what was up. but now he wants to both give it back and take it to the high knight. we recommended giving it back.

I don't think that guy is really qualified for his job. He says that he "bases all his work off of first hand experience". He has no formal training. Also, He is a pervert. He watches the women while they're sleeping. That is how he found the eyeball in the first place. PLEASE report him to your superior as soon as possible.

Wait. First hand experience? How do we know your demonologist isn't consorting with devils?

>>353058
This guy makes Mark look like like an old professional, and yes I'm talking about how Mark accidentally burned down a town.

Late last night he snuck into the women's sleeping area for a drunk girl to 'seduce' and stole Eline's eyeball amulet because it looked creepy. He only confirmed it was bad news when he got in touch with Warpath and pissed him off.

As far as what he did after that?
Let me repeat some of the exchange:
>>You aren't a real demonologist, are you?
>Yes! Yes I am! Just because I haven't read the so-called experts' books doesn't mean that I'm not qualified! I base my work off of first hand experience! Just because the books say that there's "proper" ways to handle things doesn't mean they're the only way! Of course... if the eyeball in my undergarments isn't demonic, I may need some time to think about the proper method of dealing with it.

I have to ask: Is this guy a paladin, or is he an outside 'expert'? Are you sure he's a paladin?

Anyway, now that Warpath knows that the paladins know about his scouting amulets and the people he has under his sway, you need to make sure that Eline does not go home. She's far from the only one to have one of those amulets, and he's likely going to send others to retrieve her.
Instead of sending Eline home you should convince the High Knight to send some Paladins there instead. Since it's such a sensitive location you need to find every person there with an eye amulet, quarantine them, and confiscate the artifacts.

The sudden urgency is easy to explain.
Warpath's priority has been to gather as much information as possible, which until now meant having his scouts work slowly to avoid arousing suspicion. Now he knows his scouting has been discovered his reason for caution is gone and he only has a little time left before his scouts are captured or killed.

Eline needs to stay here where she can be observed to determine how Warpath has been controlling her. When we spoke to her she seemed to honestly believe that trying to stop Warpath was a doomed effort, and that he would kill fewer people if she scouted for him.
Don't judge her harshly if it turns out he controlled her with words alone; beyond being a child, she was raised to be naive.

Lin 2011/09/26(Mon)21:34 No. 353148 ID: a9ba96
File 131709808264.jpg - (214.33KB , 513x712 , 5b10bfee.jpg )

Yeah, Namskul  is... he's not a paladin, and this camp's reported issues with him before. But he's friends with the High Knight from what I hear, so they let him stick around in spite of his... shortcomings. Again with Warpath and these eyes, though? And Namskul's taken interest in them now? I'm gonna need to try to talk to Eline if there's t...

Suddenly, Faer's voice rings out.
>"Lin! Lin, I am so sorry!"
"Faer? What's the... Oh, no."
>"I... I tried to catch her (huff) but she's just... Just so fast.... (huff)."
>"Oh, hey Lin! High Knight's coming soon. Ya' should probably put on the rest of'ya armor!"
"Lynne, give it back."
>"Whaddaya mean?"
"It doesn't even fit you, Lynne. This wasn't funny the first five times. Give it back"
>"I don't know what'cha taking about."
"I need my armor."
>"I don't see how that's my problem. Ask anyone in the camp and they'll tell you that Lynne is wearing Li-"
"For fuck's sake, we are not going through this again give it back."
>"Can't find yours? I'll help ya' look for it."
"Gods damn it Lynne!"

>>353148
Crack your knuckles.
"Yea, ok, I'm not playing your game today.
Hey, Faer, remind me again what the punishment is for theft? Should I just punch it off of her, or should we get a third and make this official?"

We know all this stuff about Warpath because we spoke with him to his face, as it were. If you remember your dream last night then you've seen him too.

Speaking of your dream, can you finish this for us? It goes:
When lands slip into to darkness, tormented by plague and blight
The paladins will always stand to pull them to the light
The goddess watches over us until the job is done
And those who die in battle die as martyrs for her son

When chaos and despair consume the lands from west to east
The paladins will always stand as upholders of peace
The goddess watches over us until the day is won
And those who die while fighting die as martyrs for her son...

Lin 2011/09/26(Mon)22:11 No. 353168 ID: a9ba96
File 131710031381.jpg - (50.17KB , 453x494 , b830a8d2.jpg )

Lynne the half-elf, everyone. When she's not out on patrol, she spends her time doing... this."

Oh, and the poem? Yeah, there's like, fifteen verses to that. Most of the time you only hear the first three or so. I can teach it to you later.

"Lynne, I can either punch the armor off of you,, or I can report you for theft."
>"Gods, why are you so hostile, Lin? Besides, ya can't report me for anything. Ya gave me the armor last night!"
"When did I..."
>"One hell of a party! Either way, ya' seem to be in a rush, so whaddaya say we make this one easy, hmm? I'm feelin' generous."
"Lynne, come on."
>"I told ya to read up on ya' history last time, so how about... Ah, yes.
>I'm father of the human lands that stand so strong today
>I conquered every human man who stood in conquest's way.
>My battle I'm the icy land soon proved to be my last
>I once was a great emperor, but now I'm just an ass.
>See? I know that history's Faer's field, not yours, so I made this one nice and easy."

"Ars.
...and that's also the name of the emperor."

this is way too easy. I'm not even gonna say it.

Lin 2011/09/27(Tue)20:00 No. 353460 ID: a9ba96
File 131717882360.jpg - (111.86KB , 622x696 , e9432108.jpg )

"Ars."
>"That's right!"
"It's also the emoeror's name."
>"Wh-- Oh come on Lin, that's just mean! I may have to make ya solve another one for that!"
"Lynne..."
>"Alright, alright! Sheesh, here ya go! Just be glad that I let'cha off easy."
"One of these days, Lynne. One of these days you're going to try pulling this on the wrong person, and you're gonna have a hard time grinning like an idiot w--"
>"Ooh! Scary!"
"No, Lynne, I'm serious. Just because I'm used to your little game here doesn't mean everyone will have the same patience for it."
>"Yeah, yeah. Just remember, the next one's gonna be a bit tougher!"

Lin 2011/09/27(Tue)20:04 No. 353461 ID: a9ba96
File 131717907230.jpg - (168.08KB , 599x768 , 2972870e.jpg )

Lynne's heart is in the right place, but sometimes I don't think she understands how serious her responsibility as a paladin in the Outlands is. Either way, all that's left is to figure out where Hyugore--

Suddenly, a swirling portal of Arcane energy materializes in the middle of the camp.

...What the hell?

This is NOT a good time to be standing around without your armor on.

Take cover behind a house and put your armor on.

ether someone for eline or for the high knight. anything else would have to be a little insane to attack a camp full of paladins.

I've no idea. React as appropriate to something like this.

>>353461
This is probably Eline's mother being a showy ass.
Still, call for people to be at the ready then rush to Eline. Oh, and bring Eline over near Mary, since Mary will defend Eline fervently.

Lin 2011/09/27(Tue)21:52 No. 353517 ID: a9ba96
File 131718553497.jpg - (249.80KB , 541x905 , 7529cf32.jpg )

As Lin cautiously steps back and begins to put on the upper half of her armor, other paladins in the area converge on the portal of magical energy.

A figure begins to take shape within the portal, eventually forming into that of a tall woman dressed in extravagant robes. She chuckles to herself as she steps away from the portal, magic energy still coursing around her body.

>"I'm terribly sorry for not knocking first, but this is hardly the proper way to greet a member of The Guild of Mages."

The Paladins begin to lower their weapons.

Whoa... that's a pretty impressive trick.

I assume that this is Eline's mother.

Continue with the armor. Looking official can be quite useful.

pretty sure. could be any woman from the guild though.

You know what they say about assumptions... Don't lower your guard TOO terribly much.

>>353517
Yea, she's showing off and trying to put you off-balance so she can control the situation.
This is bad for you, since you need to keep control in order to prevent her from leaving with Eline before the High Knight can check her over and review the demonic spying artifact she was 'willfully' carrying around.
Keep on your toes and stay deadpan professional the entire time. We'll feed you information and responses so you can engage in the sort of verbal battle she's going to go for.

Remember, these are advisers to kings you're dealing with. If you falter she'll take Eline immediately and leave people convinced that you're entirely to blame if that causes something horrible to happen.

"I would apologize if that wasn't your intent.
I can take you to meet with your child, but you'll be leaving alone or later than you intended; a situation has arisen which requires the High Knight's review and judgement.
So far your child isn't expected to face judgement, but it's serious business not meant for open air."

what a smug whore. be unimpressed, Lin.

>>353517
Well then, looks like they 'do' leave the towers occasionally, just remember to stay polite, but not overly reverent. We want to appear in charge of the situation and not overawed by such magery.

Lin 2011/09/28(Wed)20:50 No. 353761 ID: a9ba96
File 131726823502.jpg - (134.91KB , 477x768 , 794592c5.jpg )

It is pretty rare to see a member of the Guild of Mages outside of the spire unless they're advising politicians. Sometimes you hear about these guys going out to gather some dangerous spell component or on some personal mission, but even then they're hardly ever seen by the general public.

Most people also aren't lucky enough to ever witness such a display of raw arcane power...

The woman looks over to one of the three paladins who have surrounded her.
>"I am Fayne Gwethana of the Guild of Mages. You've all been informed of my arrival, no?"
>"Yes, milady," responds one of the Paladins
>"And, If I understood your High Knight correctly when we spoke, my daughter arrived in this camp last night?"
>"Correct, milady."
>"Wonderful news."

Lin 2011/09/28(Wed)20:52 No. 353763 ID: a9ba96
File 131726834584.jpg - (68.43KB , 418x544 , de8fc702.jpg )

>Stay polite, but not overly reverent.
>What a smug whore. Be unimpressed, Lin.
>She's trying to control the situation. Stay deadpan.
Yeah! no problem!

...Well, the Guild are some pretty important people with very respected and important jobs, and I'm sure that she has important work to do after we reunite her with her daughter...

>"Oh, this place is a bit larger than I had expected. I may need someone to guide me to my dear Eline."

...But if you guys are sure that letting her leave now would be a bad idea then I guess I can try to stall her a bit. You guys are going to explain to me what's going on with Eline and these eyes later, since you insisted the eye pendant was harmless before. 

Shouldn't be too hard explaining the situation to Miss Gwethana, though. She's a very influential person, but that doesn't make her any less...
>"You, over there."

Lin 2011/09/28(Wed)20:53 No. 353765 ID: a9ba96
File 131726843501.jpg - (63.91KB , 418x544 , 0078f3ae.jpg )

Lin immediately drops to her knee
"Yes, Milady!"

Wait dammit hold on sorry

>"Hmmm... You wouldn't happen to be Lin, the Paladin that led the squad that found my Eline?"
>"Indeed, Milady! That would be me, Milady!"
>"You've done more for me than you could ever imagine. It's been two long years since I've seen my daughter's face... Could you bring me to her?"
"I would be honored, Milady! But... but recent developments may require you to remain here until the High Knight arrives, Milady! I'm terribly sorry if this is an inconvenience to you, Milady! I'm sure you have very important business to attend to, Milady!"
>"haha! Do not fret, young one. It was your High Knight that invited me to your camp - I had no plans to leave without him.
"U-Understood, Milady!"
Damn it wait wait hold onhold on shit no that's not what I
Hold on guys wait I know this isn't exactly what you guys wanted
I think we can still salvage this though just wait a second I'm so sorry just give me another chance here
>"Two years... traveling with those ruffians in "The Pack." Criminals, thieves, scoundrels... Lin, I must know, what condition was she in when you found her?"

First of all, grow some balls. Secondly... I don't like the way her face is consistently hidden. Do you know of any information that ONLY Eline's mother would know, that you might subtly (as inproficient with such things as you are) ask her of? To make sure, you know, she's not an impostor. I'm not sure how many people might have known she'd be coming here, but with last night's drunken partying it's rather difficult to say who's tongue may have wagged. If nothing else, Eline should be able to vouch for her, but for all we know that might be too late.

Anyway, regarding the eye-pendants (cause Eline's not the only one with them), and since SOME people are less inclined to share important information with you, they are devices used by a warlord of ancient lore who desires to conquer part of Ution (at least) and is spying through them to take stock of its defenses and possible threats to him. Therefore, yes, Eline is participating as an aid to a hostile invasion force. More news at eleven.

>>353772
Her face might just be hidden to make her look more mysterious. Seeing her face would not be of much use anyway because an imposter with the resources to make a portal like that could probably get a disguise spell. And how would a paladin know personal information about a guild mage?
Besides, we will be taking her to meet Ellen, who would notice if something were noticeably off.

>>353772
*slaps* there is way more to it then that. and stressing her out before we have time to tell her the whole story and not just the negative side of it.

anyway, we'll try something [protect from mind control or compulsion]

"she was well. the two we have deemed fit to judge appear to have been using her array of magical objects as a booster. but mary was unaware that she was being used this way and her crimes are so little that she has earned no more then a slap on the wrist. by chance you wouldn't also be interested in the new recruit we acquired shortly before we we found eline, he is quite special"

she is using compulsion magic. she could be makin you think what she is saying is the truth even when it isn't. the high knight may not of talked to her at all but because she said he did you believe it.

punch yourself in the face if it helps, pain could break the spell.

>>353765
We said the eyes were harmless for two reasons:
1: They are passive, and thus pose no immediate threat.
2: We needed you behaving as if you were unaware to keep Warpath from realizing his scouting method was about to be purged, and considering how easy it is to read body language that means you needed to be kept in the dark.
3: You have a mandate of honesty, meaning you need to be kept away from secrets and deception.

We don't like doing that to our friends, but when the lives of everybody on this continent are on the line we don't have many choices but to make do.


It really, REALLY looks like she's manipulating you magically. You're a type-A Alpha personality; this behavior is severely deviant from projections. You don't have any protections from charm magic, do you.

She is bending you to her will. Realize this and fight it.

"Physically? Excellent. She's probably healthier than she's ever been.
Mentally? I can't answer that in the open like this.
Emotionally? Worried about the two scumbags she befriended, but worried sick over the third pack member with whom she has a mutual love of unknown depth.

Overall? Two of the pack are monsters that can rot for all I care, but I've little doubt that if it weren't for Mary then Eline would be dead or worse."

>with whom she has a mutual love of unknown depth.
Despite what Freud here says, I think Eline views Mary more as a parent figure than as a romantic interest.

Otherwise that seems like sound advice.

Lin 2011/09/29(Thu)00:44 No. 353836 ID: a9ba96
File 131728227106.jpg - (71.55KB , 596x508 , ade0485e.jpg )

>She's using charm magic.
It's not that she's.... It's not... Dammit. no, it's not magic. At least, if it is, it's not doing too much.

Shit, I thought I could handle it this time. It's just, when you deal with authority figures like this... most people don't get to see members of the Guild of Mages, you know? They're very important people and there's just a certain way you're supposed to address a person like that. I'm not as sophisticated or smart or have the standing that people like this do, and they just, I'm the captain of one of the gods know how many paladin squads out here, and she's in the damn Guild. I know by now that the only way you get taken seriously by these kind of people is to show respect.

I mean, you guys were saying to play it cool and I was going to try, but we're dealing with someone who's... In a very prominent position of authority, and when they address you directly it's just, the first thing that you're supposed to do is kneel, because they're people who need respect. With all of this talk about warlords and scrying eyeballs, and you're saying she might have something to do with it, or the Guild , or... you guys, you're accusing some serious shit about some really powerful people. When someone like addresses you it's... You just don't have enough time to consider that! It's hard to think "I need to play it cool and keep control of the conversation" all you think is "kneel down, it's a goddamn Archmage." And once you're down on one knee, you can't just get up, because now you've got their attention and if you just get up they'll think you don't respect them...

I wasn't expecting her to address me first. It caught me off guard, and I just did the first thing that came to mind. After I did there wasn't much else to do.

"Physically she's fine, Milady. She's concerned about the fate of her friends, but the Elf and the Dwarf were abusing her magical talents to bolster the power of their own spells. The leader, Mary, was unaware of this, and we think she played a large role in keeping her safe, both from the dangers of the Outlands and the other Members of the Pack."

Its different giving orders to your men and someone like her. that there's just a certain way you need to be presenting yourself, because if you just make demands, they don't... That's just, it's the proper way you should address...

Shit, this is embarassing. we'll talk about this some other time. After we discuss this and this shit about invading warlords... We need to bring it all up to the High Knight when he arrives.

>"Hmm... Perhaps... Lin, before I see my daughter, is there any way you could bring me to see this trio of prisoners that Eline was traveling with first?"

are you sure its just you being over awed by meeting someone from the guild? most charm spells tend to keep you from noticing them. I mean shes just a wizard right? or does being a member of the guild mean more than just being a powerful spell caster? or is being a spell caster a huge deal on this world?

oh so she didn't cast a charm spell, she cast a spell to make you a wimp. very different.
seriously, if its a charm spell why would you be able to notice? especially when cast by someone with her power. much more insidious then a devil isn't it. it doesn't ooze pure evil so it's impossible to notice with your powers.

anyway. she cannot. i have a feeling she will kill them. if you are incapable of saying no then say "it would not be proper at this time, once the high knight arrives i am sure he will grant you permission"

ps. you aren't even showing respect, you are just groveling. respect is earned by looking someone in the eye.

you probably don't have the authority to do so. don't be awed- she's just a human being like you, just born luckier.

>>353836
You can't see her face, but we can. This is the sort of woman who would enforce a 'no pets' rule by slaughtering any animals Eline brought home.
She is going to kill the three of them both for harming her daughter and to punish her daughter. She wants Eline to not want to ever leave home again out of the certainty that any friends she makes will die horribly.


"No, M'lady. While in our custody we are dutybound to keep them safe until judged, and a mother who would stay her hand against those who harmed her child is not worth respect.

The Elf and the Dwarf are likely to face execution after judgement, and you may request that duty.
Mary has been little more than a nuisance, and even without accounting for her protection of Eline warrants only minor censure. After judgement she will remain under our protection for as long as she remains in camp."

>>353863
"No, M'lady. While in our custody we are dutybound to keep them safe until judged, and a mother who would stay her hand against those who harmed her child is not worth respect.

Worst.
Line.
Ever.

First off it makes assumptions on the role of the paladins that we're not aware of. Let Lin explain her code and duty her own way. And you SURE AS FUCK don't blatantly accuse someone like this of intending to slaughter your prisoners, even if you think they will.

Geez none of you have any tact. You're all so used to stories of Heroes where they march up to the King, look him in the eye and say "What you're doing is wrong," and the King pauses, laughs, and says "I like the courage this one displays! He shall be my chief of advisers!" That's not how it works. Such action gets you executed to make an example of you, and such a thing wouldn't even be considered an evil act, because there's a SYSTEM of nobility in place and ways those below are supposed to treat those above.

Lin 2011/09/29(Thu)12:26 No. 353914 ID: a9ba96
File 131732438974.jpg - (132.79KB , 765x621 , 538b332c.jpg )

"With all due respect, now would not be the proper time for that, milady. The prisoners are being prepares for judgement, but I'm sure the High Knight will grant you permission to see them once he arrives."
>"Very well. I was not planning to leave before the High Knight arrived either way. Tell me, have you met the High Knight before?"
"No, this will be my first time meeting him in person, milady. Right this way."
>"He's a charming man. I've known him since he was but a trainee."

>I mean shes just a wizard right? or does being a member of the guild mean more than just being a powerful spell caster? or is being a spell caster a huge deal on this world?
Magic rarely manifests itself outside of certain bloodlines. Even then you'll usually only end up with one potenial  Mage to every five normal babies born, and only a fraction of them ever actually learn how to use magic. Mages are valued for their talents, but most people are too weary of what they can do for you to see many living in towns and cities. Most of them either travel and offer their services, or live in secluded huts near populated areas and let people looking for potions or charms come to them. As useful as magic is, people tend to get nervous when mages stick around their town for too long.

The Guild is different, though. They're ancient, respected, and her position in it doesn't just mean that she's a powerful Mage. It means that she likely has a finger in politics all throughout Ution. Meeting people like her is a bit... I just slipped up, is all. I wanted o handle things professionally, but I wanted to stay reverent, and with all the talk about eyes and warlords I just...

Lin 2011/09/29(Thu)12:28 No. 353915 ID: a9ba96
File 131732450519.jpg - (56.45KB , 530x485 , 0c0e859d.jpg )

>"Would this be the place?"
"Yes, milady!"
>"Alright. Wait here, I wish to see you again when I am done."
"Wait here?"
>"Lin, I have not seen my daughter in two years. I have not witnessed two years worth of her growth, and I have been absent for two of my own child's birthdays. I understand that situations require her to remain here until the High Knight arrives but please, I wish to be by myself for this. If you fear I may try to leave with her, understand that I stil intend to meet with your High Knight. I can find my way from here."
>"Yes, milady..."

I mean, people like her, archmages, and nobles, and kings...

Lin 2011/09/29(Thu)12:31 No. 353918 ID: a9ba96
File 131732467132.jpg - (56.11KB , 529x485 , 5775b0b2.jpg )

"Jus... Just don't try any... Just, be..."

Meeting people like them, it's just... it's like...

Lin 2011/09/29(Thu)12:32 No. 353920 ID: a9ba96
File 131732474029.jpg - (55.98KB , 529x485 , ae78974a.jpg )

Bang!

Gods.

Every time.

Every damn time.

>>353920
Open the door and toss us to Eline. We can watch her mother from there and collect information.
Seeing how they interact will tell us a lot about possible abuse.

uh. who's that other guy?

maybe once you meet the high knight your awe limit will be raised and all the other big peeps wont seem so impressive anymore. anyway, now seems like a good time to tell you what's up with the eyes.

warpath is still alive, his immortality and power and devil granted. but as long as eline had the eye he was calm and reasonable. he wants someone to kill him, not give up of course, but to find someone or group of someones that can beat him in a real battle. but by our demonologist 'friend' taking it it has made him upset. i dunno about you but upsetting someone like warpath sounds like a bad idea. we also talked at length with him and convinced him to look into other things then outright conquering this place. simply put, having eline keep it was for the best. and not telling you is because you are bound by duty to tell the truth if someone asks.