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953982 No. 953982 ID: 5fc3a0

Previous Threads/Wiki: http://tgchan.org/wiki/Fen_Quest
Inventory and Other Info: http://tgchan.org/wiki/Fen_Quest_Statistics
Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/Lagotrope

>"It's time to go, Valsano." I don't know that person, but he must be one of Valsano's current team that's going back down into the mausoleum.
>"Yeah yeah, I just wanted to see how my main squad is doing, living it up."
>"Oh, yeah, it's great!" says Firzel. "I'll tell all my grandkids about the good old days, in which every single day was spent having Zall beat the shit out of us."

We all listen to Valsano, who will make a typical quip back to Firzel.

It doesn't come. He loses his expression and marches off.
Expand all images
>>
No. 953983 ID: 5fc3a0
File 157962523948.png - (26.58KB , 800x800 , 1292.png )
953983

We've had less time with the wizards, so the bruises and cuts that Zall gives us are left to pile up faster than they can naturally heal. There's only one reason we've even gotten a break at Holly's place now.

>"Mail!" Holly comes in where Valsano just left. She's collected the mail for us that came throughout the day after yesterday's warp, so that we could collect it all together. "Packages and letters for Dame Frais, Sir Mopp, and letters for Sirs Firzel, Fen and Orjin."
>>
No. 953984 ID: 5fc3a0
File 157962528421.png - (139.17KB , 800x800 , 1293.png )
953984

I get my usual three from Zizi, Cheese, and Moss. I notice that Cheese's letter has a different stamp imprinted on the paper as Holly hands it to me.

>"I just got this one, otherwise I would've handed it off to you sooner, Fen." Holly explains. "It's from a different mail service, so that's unusual."

>"Hi! It's a little weird for me writing this letter because you just left, but I'm speeding this one along to the warp because I'm going to try out a new mailing service and I want to confirm it works asap! So tell me if it arrived safely. You can keep sending me mail through the usual means."

That's all she says in it. I move onto Moss's.

>"Hello again, I hope this letter finds you while you're still making steady progress. On one hand, the army's campaigns may let you gain a lot of prestige, but if they ever hit a slog, then it's not good for anyone. Except the enemy, ha, but if you care about them, then you've got problems. I won't bore you with my work stories. It's got a bad blend of being tough, and also not worth writing about. Or at least nothing I'd bother putting in a letter. Keep in touch, remember to visit if you get the chance."

And finally, Zizi.

>"Hey bro! You know, ever since you crossed the border, I've been more interested in the going ons with the empire, so I've had the mailmen fill me in on some details. I heard you ran into Butterknife! She's a tough puddle to cross, but if you can beat her, you'll know you've improved a ton in such a short time, so try to get in a fight with her. When you can handle it."

.... 'When I can handle it,' he says. There's something I don't like about the addition of that sentence, and it's because I don't ever remember him advising caution, before.

Kiki also says hello, mostly by way of calling both myself and Zizi idiots.

>"Can I see your envelopes?" says Holly. "The one from Moss, I mean. I want to double check something."
>>
No. 953985 ID: 5fc3a0
File 157962530131.png - (25.38KB , 800x800 , 1294.png )
953985

She takes the envelope that had Moss's letter and glares it down.

>"... yeaaah. The wax seal here was broken and replaced."
>>
No. 953986 ID: 465a14

Well, it was going to happen eventually. Ask how she can tell- does the methodology say anything about the person doing it?
>>
No. 953988 ID: 86eb65

Have her check the Cheese letter. Just on the off hand chance this new mail service is a trick and someone else is intercepting your mail and pretending to be cheese. Find out more info about it.

Valsano quip missing could be stress or other drama so make sure to keep a eye out for that.

As for Moss we are assuming everyone is reading our mails anyways so having proof is expected.

Finally we knew Butterknife was nasty with her super speed. So until you make a break thru and can match it be wary. Ideally stay on her good side so you can get a friendly duel someday.


So chat with Holly about messages and send back some generic replies. Just publicly available info and nothing you would want anyone else knowing.
>>
No. 953989 ID: c6b4c6

I think it's likely that Cheese using a new mail service is related to Moss's letter being tampered with.
>>
No. 953995 ID: 10c408

Ask her how long she's suspected your mail has been tampered with and if there's even anything to do about it.
>>
No. 953996 ID: 5669ef

In the letter to Cheese, make references to her letter's contents, just to make sure.
>>
No. 953998 ID: 015bf2

>A Necromancer stole Valsano's funny bone
That, or something has him down. Maybe he's feeling left out of the group? That, or the war he's returning to is real bad down there.

>Seal broken and replaced
Unsurprised, if a little worried for Moss' sake. Not much you can do about it at this point. How can she tell, by the way? Would be useful for you to know, so you could check other letters later. (Perhaps if Cheese's letter service proves reliable, we can route more secure letters through that.)

Anyway, do you have time to write return letters?

>Letter to Cheese
Write a return letter verifying that you got her most recent letter and read its contents. Ask whether the services mentioned there will ever be available to you. (It's probably mutant mail, which is supposedly secure even from the empire.)

>Letter to Zizi
Give him (and Kiki and the fam) the usual salutations and updates on how your life's been going. What does he know about Butterknife, though? Did she wake up early and smell mountain air with him at some point?

>Letter to Moss
Tell him not to worry about you hitting a slog, because it looks like you'll soon get thrown in at the deep end after Zall's reforms. Try to weave in a hint that the seal was broken.

>Wot Next
Back to paining - I mean, training.
>>
No. 954009 ID: ef2ac9

Moss's letter has been open? Hmm, although not surprising, it is a problem. Someone must suspect of him already, we need to do something about that. Ask Holly if she has a solution about that. We should also ask Cheese for help about that, she might also know what to do about that, or help Moss directly.

I wouldn't bother asking Zizi for detals. But the fact that he told us to fight Butterknife is interesting. Even more to warn us to be careful with her. Maybe he does have something to tell us about her this time around. She is our next step to become stronger.
>>
No. 954011 ID: b1b4f3

>>953984
Moss's letter sounds very different from last time. Either it's forged or he decided he was being watched too closely to put anything suspicious in it. Feel vaguely regretful you didn't visit him while you were in town, but that could've aroused suspicion anyway.
...the phrasing in Moss's letter sounds strange too, like there might be a hidden message in it(if it's not forged). Is there anyone around that specializes in that sort of thing, can we get them to take a look at it? Might want to do that before replying.
Reply to Cheese's letter, telling her that her letter arrived safely.
Tell Zizi you're hoping for some sort of breakthrough so you can stand a chance against Butterknife, but you've also heard that there's no advice anyone can give that would help. It's frustrating knowing that there's a power like that within your grasp but no clues as how to grab it.
>>
No. 954022 ID: 10c408

>>954011
He probably suspected it would be intercepted and read.

That said, I believe asking for a cryptography expert is going to be a fruitless endeavor.

We're unlikely to find one we can trust unless we take it up with Zall, who will undoubtedly have an issue or three with trying to get him involved in our own problems.
>>
No. 954055 ID: afdebc

Holly's place is looking kinda fancy, for underground army-base standards. Poofy carpets and everything!

>>953985
"I'm not surprised, given who he works for. I've been assuming the empire reads all my mail it wants to."

That the other letters appear untampered with either means they didn't bother, or that more skilled spies opened them, or that Krix's spies didn't bother to do a good job because he doesn't care if you know, or he's making a deliberate statement by letting you see it.

Would you recognize Moss' handwriting, though? People reading your letters might be less of a concern (that just means you can't share sensitive information) than forgeries or deliberate misinformation pretending to be from someone you know.
>>
No. 954083 ID: 015bf2

>>954055
I don’t think the tavern’s underground anymore, for one. Sir Zall set her up a big topside tavern full o’ spies working for him. She gets to be the boss by pretending she was the one to invest and set it up herself. It’s supposed to be very hush hush.

It’s topside because Zall booted the regular army from underground action after their (many) miserable failures at maintaining quarantine. /end recap
>>
No. 954101 ID: 7a8469

> Damaged Letter
Yeah, I think that's been expected for some time now.
>>953989
Almost certainly; maybe get Holly to help you ask about it?
> Valsano
Yeeahh something's not right there. Have you noticed anything different about him since he got back? Has Firzel?
>>
No. 954105 ID: 10c408

>>954101
I'm pretty sure that he's getting a bit resentful of everyone still training and not helping as much with the campaign, which is likely wearing away at his morale.
>>
No. 954140 ID: c2f1f6

Huh, good eye Holly. I'm guessing the Empire doesn't need to resort to such crude or easily detectable methods, meaning it's almost certainly Krix's doing. Sounds like Moss may even be trying to mention as such in as roundabout a way as he can to avoid detection... Replace 'care about them' with 'worry about them' and 'not worth writing about' with 'not able to write about' and the slog-like way he describes his job makes his request you visit sound urgent.


You're going to need help drafting a reply to that one, you're kind of got a weak grasp in the nuance and subtlety department.
>>
No. 954143 ID: 4f51b2

Thanks Holly for noticing someone open the card.
>>
No. 954227 ID: 5fc3a0
File 157980448402.png - (18.03KB , 800x800 , 1295.png )
954227

"How can you tell this was opened, anyway?"

Holly holds up the paper to me.

>"If you melt wax onto other wax, it creates an obvious seam. This person grinded down the wax to the paper, but it's not a perfect process, you can kind of see how it kind of bleeds into the paper a bit, so the wax can't be totally removed without grinding away the paper itself, so there's still going to be new wax on top of the old."
"Thank you for telling me. I've been assuming that all of my letters have been getting read."
>"I'm glad you've all been writing your letters like it was, but I'm really surprised by it! Breaking into the imperial mail system isn't something that even mithril nobles take lightly, because it's a network made at the emperor's level. Of course, it does happen anyway, but nobles only mess with the mail when they really feel a need to. Whoever opened this mail was probably disappointed by the lack of contents for the risk it involves."
"Moss sounded different, in the letter. It was his handwriting, still."
>"Yeah... maybe you can point that out? It might mean something, but it might not. Think of if you tried to write a letter without my help - it would suddenly sound very different, wouldn't it?"
>>
No. 954228 ID: 5fc3a0
File 157980449226.png - (22.58KB , 1000x800 , 1296.png )
954228

That's true.

"What about my other mail? It's probably being read too, right?"
>"Best to assume so, but it's not likely. Cheese should have a good idea of what mail services she can use safely, and Zizi, well, it probably never even entered the Turtle's Hideaway. And because of how serious a crime it is to break into it, I think Lord Krix only intercepted Moss's since it was so conveniently put out through his home region."
"Who enforces the imperial mail system? Themselves? The dragon knights?" asks Aira, with a light tone of scoffing when she mentions the knights.
>"Well... there's not a whole lot we can do about it." Holly answers. "Just keep writing vaguely. If you need something to say privately, I should be able to find a good private mail runner. Cheese should have one too. They're hard to come by though, they're easily corrupted and not reliable, but..."

She waves the broken envelope. "Maybe I've had too much faith in the mail after all."
>>
No. 954229 ID: 5fc3a0
File 157980450061.png - (22.34KB , 800x800 , 1297.png )
954229

I get to writing. Holly helps me as usual, since I'm still only mostly literate. To Cheese, I mostly just tell her I did get the letter. To Zizi, I give publically available updates, but I also ask specifically about if he knows anything about Butterknife or her nickname, Butter Knight. If so, I want him to explain every detail no matter how bad he is about details. I add in that I feel that I need some kind of breakthrough in both physical and mental fighting ability, to take on someone like Butterknife.

To Moss, I tell him not to worry about me hitting a slog, as I expect to be thrown deep into the mausoleum after Zall's reforms.

"Should I tell him the seal was broken?" I ask Holly.
>"No, not since he's been saying anything he shouldn't be saying. Best to not tell our interceptors we know we're being intercepted, I think."
"What about a hint?"
>"Eheh, with apologies to Moss, I think that any hint he can pick up on is a hint our interceptor can, unless you guys have made up some secret phrases or similar things beforehand."
"No."

I let her read Moss's letter for any hidden meaning, but she can't find any.
>>
No. 954230 ID: 5fc3a0
File 157980450956.png - (33.07KB , 800x800 , 1298.png )
954230

Holly helps the others write and send out any letters they want to, as well.

"We should head back up to Sir Zall's." says Frais. "He didn't tell us to, so obviously he wants us to without being told."
>"Ah, about that." says Holly. "Now that we're all done with mail, he asked me to address all of you with this letter he passed on to me."

She pulls out a note, and begins reading after making sure we're all alone and the doors are shut.

>"Hello. Learning how to fight is good, but the lower sections of the mausoleum are more populated than we thought. You'll all need to be able to sneak through areas, so you're all going through assassin training as well as knight training. Before I personally train you any longer, you will need to touch my spine. Upon doing so, you will pass, and we will continue your training as usual."
"What if we just touch his spine without managing to sneak up on him?" asks Frais.
>"He didn't say, but if I had to guess, it means he'll think you don't need assassin training after all. Hold on, there's more."
>"If you want to practice normally, go find the right mentors in the training hall." Holly contemplates the next words, and sighs them out. "Ask Holly if you are interested in a shortcut. Right." She says, putting the letter down. "First of all, I don't agree with Sir Zall's use of the word 'shortcut', because it doesn't guarantee you the ability to hide your mana, it just shows you the example of what it's like. I won't be the one to explain it, I would just point you to the instructor who can perform the method, and I do not recommend it. It's nothing more than keeping you on the brink of death for a moment, close enough that it's extremely dangerous. And once again, it does not guarantee you'll suddenly be a master at mana hiding, it only grants you a better idea of what you're trying to do. For something this dangerous, I'm honestly surprised Sir Zall didn't suggest the option of dunking yourselves in tar pits for the chance to become some all powerful abomination."
>"I'm sure Sir Zall assumes that we already know that's an option." says Dame Frais. "This one is new to me, and I'll still pass, thanks."
>"Same, no way." says Firzel.
"How does staying on the brink of death show us the way?"
>"Eh..." Holly thinks on her words. "I could try and give you the lecture on how souls, bodies and lands interact, but it isn't anything that'll change your mind one way or the other. If you accept, I'll point you to the special instructor who I'm sure would be willing to explain it all. If not, there's plenty of other normal instructors in Sir Zall's training hall. Also, I'll remind you that Sir Zall isn't requiring you to succeed at mana hiding to be sent on missions, or even to train your swordsmanship in his halls. He just won't personally train you face to face until then."
>>
No. 954234 ID: 465a14

>>954230
we risk death enough that it's not a big deal to do it again when there might be an actual payoff to it
>>
No. 954237 ID: e2f5cc

I agree with >>954234, but even if we don't do it for some reason we should probably push Aira to do this for pretty much the same reason, and she's explicitly stated she isn't afraid of getting hurt.
>>
No. 954240 ID: ce39da

"I'll keep my options open, so I'd like to know at least where I can meet this instructor of yours."

I anticipate that there will be a bit less uncertainty if we choose the unique option here, and Fen tends to think more like Zall than Holly anyway. Plus, we might also get an epiphany about Butterknife's mojo.
>>
No. 954242 ID: 10c408

We can always try going for the normal route and then try the super dangerous shortcut approach if we're not making any progress.
>>
No. 954243 ID: 86eb65

Tell her that you are fine with risks but if your life is going to be in someones hands you would like assurances that they are not on a enemies payroll.

Still its worth a look if normal training does not help after a few days.

Also get the lecture on how souls and magic and the land works anyways.

I am guessing being on the edge of death allows your soul to loosen up (cause its going to leave your body shortly) and this experience allows you to get a glimpse of the mana that binds your soul and body and the land together.
>>
No. 954244 ID: 1d7c77

Piling on risks of death on risks of death isn't great, but Fen is pretty much committed to maximum shortcuts. Besides, getting some kind of more visceral sense of how souls and the land relate to each other might be a step to learning other things.

However, it sounds like something that could very easily leave us open to an opportunistic assassin, so while I recommend going for the option, some sort of security in that regard would be important to go with it.
>>
No. 954250 ID: 015bf2

Hm. As I thought - it's getting grim down there and they need elite warriors to counter the Necromancers' elite creatures.

What's been staring us in the face since the Butterknife debacle and Cheese's admission of Butter's fear of 'easily getting caught' by someone suddenly catching up to that strength is that there appears to be a way - or ways - to 'cheat' in becoming more powerful, suddenly. Zizi may also have had it happen to him, for that matter. There might exist some kind of deep epiphany - or something - that just shifts one's perspective and ability to another level entirely... although Butterknife's way of achieving badass nirvana was so intensely undesirable that Cheese and her family swore a blood oath to just forget about it!

Regardless, this particular method of training mana suppression might be a shortcut along the same line - not to that kind of a power up, but something similar. And since Holly knows about it, there are clearly established principles at work here - she just doesn't seem to approve of the method. And we know Zall wouldn't suggest it if he didn't think it would have a chance of working, despite the risks.

It's a surprisingly big choice - do you train as hard as you can with the others to maybe succeed, or do you accept high risk at the mere potential for a much-needed skill that will enable your further training?

Look at Aira. Ask what she'd like to do. If she says yes to this deal, go through with it with her. Nearly dying can't be fun to do alone. On the other hand, if even she isn't keen, you should probably heed the wisdom of declining. Getting your mana training there is a fundamental thing, it's eminently trainable, and not the kind of power leap you'd need to get to Butterknife's level. It'd suck to lose Zall's training if you fail to train your mana suppression, mind you, since that's not an opportunity that would often come by, and you'd also lose out on some potential Assassin gigs.

All that said it's worth pointing out that getting mana suppression down pat would be real useful, if not essential, when it comes time to infiltrate Lord Krix's household, retrieve your dragoncloth and pour some Tomato soup in his tomato soup (who am I kidding, Gold nobles probably lace their every meal with antidote).

Oh! Did you get the old poison vial refreshed by a wizard, by the way?
>>
No. 954252 ID: 88927d

I don't mind learning new tricks. We won't necessary use them, but it is always useful to have. And if it helps us to understand how to properly hide your presence, the better.

How have you been doing in your formal training, Fen? You think you need to focus on that still, or we could go with the sneaking training?
>>
No. 954256 ID: c2f1f6

Well if you're going to risk death, better do it OUTSIDE the mausoleum. I think you should talk with this instructor before making a decision. Maybe mention to him you've been poisoned recently and if flirting with death again so soon is a bad idea.
>>
No. 954260 ID: b1b4f3

>>954230
Hmm... Butterknife seemed really good at hiding her mana, didn't she? Also there was something about increased mana circulation right before some people "get serious" in a fight... I think the breakthrough has something to do with mana somehow, but it must be something that almost nobody ever thinks of trying.
We should try everything we can, have as many different experiences as possible. Try the shortcut, experience the brink of death. I wonder if the secret of the breakthrough involves going further than that and dying, but then coming back afterwards? Like possessing your own body to keep it in a living state while having increased control over it? That would be why it's such a closely guarded secret- one, people would wind up killing themselves trying to attain it for power, and two, it would cause despair amongst those not willing to risk death over it(like Cheese's family). It could also have some kind of drawback when it's used...
>>
No. 954264 ID: 8d23f0

>>954230
go big or go not Lily. take the death training
>>
No. 954277 ID: bb78f2

>>954230
Going on the brink of death sounds interesting.
Yeah I'll do it for extra credit.
>>
No. 954279 ID: 014729

Back in Shroomleaf, did you ever hear of other Kobolds able to do something like that before? We know from when you were searching for Zall's Knights back in the catacombs of Dragon's Fall that you do have *some* experience with stealth, so it would be best for you to go ahead and try to pick up a new talent.
Also, if Aira does come with you to learn this "shortcut", be prepared for crude jokes about you two sneaking off all the time. Most likely from Firzel, but maybe from Frais as well
>>
No. 954280 ID: 10c408

>>954279
Normal stealth is something Fen is very familiar with.

Mana stealth is entirely new.
>>
No. 954291 ID: 5fc3a0
File 157987394674.png - (23.16KB , 800x800 , 1299.png )
954291

"I'm interested." I look at Aira.
>"I will do it, too."
>"Really?" Holly asks, incredulously. Frais and Firzel look at us in ways that ask the same question.
"Yes. I am familiar with stealth, but I have never seen anything like mana stealth in the shroomleaf forest. I risk death often enough for less gain."
>"That's, true, but... at least if you died down there, you'd die fighting the enemy or something more... rather, less awkward to tell people how you died. Oh, god, would I have to be the one to tell Zizi? That you died because I told you about some stupid shortcut?"
"No, Sir Zall can inform him. Death is death, and it was all in pursuit of my own goals, so I don't see how the exact method of death would matter."
>".... hm, alright, alright. I'll go make sure the instructor is ready. You're going to be indisposed for at least a couple of days, once you start. One doesn't just go from the brink of death to full fighting condition in a few minutes, after all. After that, if you live, you hopefully can get the hang of mana stealth faster. Is there anything you two need to take care of?"
>"I'll leave my belongings with Mopp." says Aira. "It goes to Fen if I die, Mopp can distribute it if we both die."
"My written will is still up to date, with Holly. Otherwise, I would like to refresh all of my relevant possessions with anti-rot mana. Holly, do you trust whoever is doing this?"
>"I do. Is there anything else to take care of? If not, I'll go get the instructor since I'm sure you'll want to start as soon as possible."
>"I'm going to write a letter," says Aira, "But only send it out if I die."
>"Understood. Fen?"
>>
No. 954293 ID: e2f5cc

"See you all in... How long is this supposed to take, Holly?"
>>
No. 954295 ID: ce39da

"I'm not one to write like it's my last. I trust that someone will inform all relevant parties in time, should I pass, but it shouldn't come to that. See you all in a few days."
>>
No. 954296 ID: 10c408

"I'll do the same." Though it may take a bit longer since you have multiple people to write to.
>>
No. 954300 ID: 1d7c77

A few contingency death letters seem sensible enough, yeah, though really there should be a couple of those in storage already. The main thing is to be as sure as possible Fen's not going to get stabbed by someone after the bounty while incapacitated.
>>
No. 954310 ID: 88927d

Let's get those letters done right away.
>>
No. 954322 ID: 86eb65

We have spent the past few months with death possible at every moment. Our friends knows our wishes already and will continue on without us if we fall.

Write a quick note thanking everyone for there help and only get it sent if you die.

Also make sure you have a safe place to recover after. Dying to some assassin while you are weak after you do the training is a distinct possibility.

And do not be afraid to back out if you get a bad feeling from the trainer or there methods. Trust your instincts.
>>
No. 954327 ID: 83bf07

>>954291
Let's get this over with. Wish the others luck.
>>
No. 954337 ID: b1b4f3

>>954291
Okay, write a letter. "Sorry, I fucked up my training and died." should be sent to everyone if you die.
>>
No. 954338 ID: 015bf2

There are many things you could say in a contingency letter.

You could thank Holly, Frais, Firzel, Sir Zall, Sir Orjin and all your other imperial acquaintances for their friendship, support and/or training.

You could attempt humor, sending a letter to Valsano stating that he should stop slacking off. Making non-stop fun of Death Carrot is a deadly serious mission and he is the best man for the job.

You could tell Moss that you admire his will to stay true to himself and to insist on staying friends, despite circumstance dictating that this would be anything but a good idea.

You could tell your family that you didn't regret pursuing your dream of a life with Lily for a second.

You could tell Cheese that she was a good friend.

You could write Lily and tell that if there was any way for your memories to persist beyond this life... you hope to meet again, somehow, someday.

Ultimately, most of these things do not have to be said. The ones who know you will know your feelings, and the ones who do not know, may be better off not feeling greater loss from your abrupt passing, or your terrible attempts at humor or seriousness.

"I'm ready."
>>
No. 954350 ID: f133dc

This is why we went out of our way to save Aira. Pain and death don't scare her or stop her.

We don't need any prep, no final goodbyes. Time to go meet death.
>>
No. 954352 ID: bb78f2

I'm fine. Could do with a real good meal before the training though, if possible. Might give me the edge I need.
>>
No. 954354 ID: 88927d

>>954352
If it doesn't get in the way of the training.
>>
No. 954363 ID: 3674e7

I wonder if we can do both magic stealth training and magic perception trading at the same time. Magic stealth training is probably about sealing his magic flow within himself while magic perception training is probably about pulling in the magic around you to perceive changes. So if we did both at the same time wouldn’t it pull in the magic around him and then instead of leaking out again like normal seal it within him causing a buildup of magical energy. If he learns how to control this energy and incorporate/harness it shouldn’t it become easier to become a mage.
>>
No. 954422 ID: 5fc3a0
File 157997768709.png - (91.29KB , 1200x731 , 1300.png )
954422

I decide to write some letters, but there isn't much to be said. I just write what everyone already knows, and that I died to pursuing my ambition.

"I think that's it."

Holly leads us into another one of the side rooms that was made so we can talk privately.

>"Okay... good luck, you two. If something goes wrong, well, it was a pleasure. Goodbye."
"Goodbye, Holly."
>>
No. 954423 ID: 5fc3a0
File 157997770148.png - (45.33KB , 800x800 , 1301.png )
954423

Soon, a wheeled cart with more food than we could eat is pushed in. Although we've been treated well with our meals, this batch looks like it was supposed to be delivered to a noble's table. It's pushed in by Kylia.

>"Hi, you two. I'm your waitress, as always, but today I'm also going to be - " the door shuts while she continually speaks - "your surgeon, and that's a fact to keep to yourselves."
>"Surgeon?" asks Aira.
>"Yes, Holly told me you're taking the near death experience. The best way I know for that is by poking a little hole in an organ in your gut. Not your stomach, some other sac off to the side that has a purpose that eludes the empire's knowledge. It must be important, because making a hole too big in it will kill you. It's shaped a bit differently and in a different spot between draconics and fields, but the draconic version is consistent for all draconics, and ditto for fields. A small hole in it will do a good - on second thought, how about you two enjoy this meal before I get into the nasty physical details? I'm sure you have questions. At least you should, if you want me to think you're both taking this seriously."
>>
No. 954424 ID: 695467

Is it wise to be having a meal before having surgery done on your gut? Presumably there's a reason why if Kylia is bringing food in & going to be operating on you.
>>
No. 954425 ID: 465a14

What happens if the organ is removed entirely? Or transplanted?
>>
No. 954426 ID: e2f5cc

How exactly will we be healed? There don't seem to be any wizards around, unless Kylia has even more secret talents.

Will there be anything to dull the presumably immense pain? And what exactly happens when this sac is hit that puts us to near death almost immediately?

What exactly will happen beyond almost dying? And how will doing this help with our mana sense?

Also, for something a little less important, Where is this sac normally located on fields and draconics? It'd be good to know another vital spot to protect/aim for.

And of course, test the food for anything that's not supposed to be there, because this would be the opportune time to get poisoned.

After that though, enjoy the meal. Unless of course eating could mess with this procedure even a tiny bit.
>>
No. 954427 ID: 91ee5f

>>954423
>Soon, a wheeled cart with more food than we could eat is pushed in.
Is there a reason there’s too much food being brought to us? Did you put something in it to make us fall asleep so that you can cut this organ more easily?

>how about you two enjoy this meal before I get into the nasty physical details?
If you’re supposed to do something in our gut, wouldn’t the food just get in the way? Or is the food supposed to help somehow?
>>
No. 954428 ID: bb78f2

>>954423
How did kobolds come across this shortcut if it meant cutting into a kobold and poking a weird organ for no reason at all?
>>
No. 954429 ID: 83bf07

>>954423
Is eating required? Or is that more of a courtesy for someone who could die soon? Also compliment her eyes. They're real pretty.
>>
No. 954430 ID: 86eb65

Does eating help the process? If we can not trust Holly's girls to not poison us we can not trust anyone probably.

So enjoy your possibly last meal.

As for questions.

1. How do you get to the organ and how many times have you done this?

2. What rates of success vs death are we talking here?

3. We are in a active crypt with necromancers who will interfere if possible. Should this even be done down here at all? (remember that Fen is actively being targeted so even if others have done this down here we might not be able to.)

4. Side effects and healing rates once its done?

5. What tools do you use?

6. What sort of experience is it?

7. Could this sort of thing be related to what Butterknife did? She got herself beaten half to death somehow and that's why Cheese refused to tell us?
>>
No. 954431 ID: 014729

>>954428
Bored Nobles
>>954423
I'm pretty sure you're not supposed to eat anything before a procedure, or something like that. Unless there's some form of anesthetic built-in with the meal. Be sure to ask Kylia about either before either you or Aira begin.
>>
No. 954433 ID: ce39da

"Do they even have a name for this organ? I'll pass on the meal until after unless it improves our odds."
>>
No. 954434 ID: 1d7c77

"Have you experienced this yourself, how often have you done this before, what's your survival rate, is there any advice based on what those survivors have said afterwards, is whatever you'll be stabbing us with clean, and does the room we'll be in have a lock on the door" all seem like good questions.
>>
No. 954435 ID: 1d7c77

Also possibly you should mention to her that time Aira got seriously injured, in case she ends up having some sort of internal scar tissue that misaligned things for her. She was magically healed, so that shouldn't be the case, but it was sort of not the best healing and the same should have been able to be said for her eye, so. It might be important.
>>
No. 954437 ID: a9af05

>>954423
If the food is important, then would be helpful if we ate more food or less food?

>>954435
>Mention Aira's injury
That's a good point. We should tell Kylia about that, since it might be important.
>>
No. 954439 ID: 015bf2

>>954423
Why the luxurious meal?
What is the survival rate like?
Why does nearly dying in this oddly specific way aid learning mana stealth?
Are there any known long-term effects to damaging this organ? Will it affect your lifespan?
How does one best stay alive through - and recover from - the process?

Does Aira have any questions?

>>954428
At some point someone probably noticed that kobolds with a certain battlefield wound learned mana hiding better than others.

>Bored nobles.
Or that.

>>954430
Don't mention Cheese's family secrets. Though, presumably, had it been this 'easy', Cheese and her family wouldn't have been so horrified by Butterknife's secret and sworn to forget about it. Remember, these are mutants who willingly submerged themselves in Erja Nokol's tar just for the odd chance they'd get stronger or useful. Getting an organ poked and maybe dying for a very useful benefit doesn't seem that much more extreme.
>>
No. 954441 ID: 88927d

Well i am going to gues that is okay to eat.
I would like to know about Kobolds anatomy and how this operations affects it. I doubt that Fen knows more that be basic of body anatomy.
>>
No. 954455 ID: bb78f2

Oh hey, Fen, Brah, one more thing, what is the most delicious looking thing on that cart? Can you describe it? What place is the recipe from? What's it taste like?
>>
No. 954457 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158000115481.png - (28.50KB , 800x800 , 1302.png )
954457

There are many kinds of food on the cart, some more familiar than others, but right now my mind is elsewhere.

"Is it wise to eat a meal before having a gut wound?"
>"No, which is why it's not happening now."
"Why not? I will skip this meal if it means getting this done sooner."
>"... That's some hurry, but no. It's late, and the procedure takes awhile, and you're going to want me to be wide awake and well rested for all of it."
"That is a good point. Then why this meal?"
>"Because Holly is good to you two, that's why, and that's why it would be rude if you skipped out on it anyway. It has nothing to do with the surgery or its the chances of success, but just a little comfort food for the risk this involves. With that said... mind if I eat some, too?"
"Aira and I could not eat all of it. Help yourself." I say, and Aira makes the smallest nod. "Thank Holly for me, I did not realize it was a gift from her."
>"Thanks." She eats some of the food right off the cart, which serves as a taste test against poison anyway.

Aira and I eat, and I keep asking questions.

"Does this sac have a name?"
>"Side-stomach is a popular one. Orvard's Lung is another popular one, even though it's definitely not a lung, no matter who Orvard was."
"What happens if this sac is removed?"
>"You die."
"Swapped between two different bodies?"
>"Both die."
"How will we be healed?"
>"I have healing clothes and salves. The salve is applied to a needle first, just in case there's a mistake while I find it, then healing clothes if things and salves if things either go bad. After a satisfactory experience, there'll be a wizard to come assist and help."
"A trustworthy one?"
>"One of Sir Zall's personal wizard batch, I believe."
"What is a 'satisfactory' experience?"
>"Satisfactory as in you get close enough to the cliff of death that your toes overlook it. Not satisfactory as in pleasant, because this will hurt."
"Will there be much to dull the pain?"
>"No. There could be, but you want to be as awake as you can be to feel your soul try and get grabbed. That part is the 'experience' I'm referring to, by the way, it just happens to be an experience that happens when almost dying."
"I now have more questions, but first, where is this sac located?"
>"On you? Right about here," She pokes her midriff to the side, "About this deep down." She uses her other hand to show a distance. I was thinking it might have been a spot I wanted to protect, but it's so deep down that it would be odd to protect that particular spot of my internal flesh.
>>
No. 954458 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158000117108.png - (32.26KB , 1000x800 , 1303.png )
954458

Aira asks one of my own questions.

>"How was this shortcut found?"
>"The experience itself was found by anyone who was on the brink of death and awake to experience it, and given how much war happens in the empire, it's happened on accident plenty of times. Various wizards experimented with ways to do so on purpose, and more safely than simply maiming people haphazardly. Other ways involve a tiny, tiny needle through your head, drowning, or blood loss. The first one is way too unreliable, the second one usually causes passing out before death comes, and the third one takes a long, long time both to do accurately and to recover from. This one takes awhile to do right - technically a single poke to do right, but to get it perfect, I need to poke slightly, then more, then more, and slowly bring you to the brink. Just doing a single poke on the first try is sure to either be too little or too much, but on the plus side, once it's done, the actual damage is so little that the body can heal from it fast. All you need to do to recover quick is some bedrest."
"Is the tool just a needle?"
>"And the healing cloths and salve and other medical tools, that's right."
"What are the chances of the success?"
>"Surviving? Without magic healing, about 8 out of 10 survive, but since we have the best supplies that at our disposal, you two should be looking at a 9 out of 10 chance of survival."
"Any advice on how to survive?"
>"Just do your best not to fall asleep or lose consciousness. If you do, the situation becomes much more dangerous, but I'll immediately start applying healing magic in that case."
>>
No. 954460 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158000133847.png - (23.98KB , 800x800 , 1304.png )
954460

Kylia looks at us more pointedly than usual.

>"Just to make sure you understand the most important point, I'm going to repeat it. It's just an estimate, but the best estimate is that there is a one out of ten chance you will die. That's each for both of you. If you have to process only a single thing I've said tonight, let it be that."
"I understand. Tell me about this 'experience.'"

She takes a deep breath.

>"Okay. See, your body keeps your soul from drifting off into the land's own pool of mana. When your body dies, your soul gets let out to either mix with the land, or to run back to its native homeland and get absorbed there. Here's a popular metaphor - imagine your body is a boat, and on that boat, your soul is a puddle of water with its own shape and sense of identity. Your body - the boat - stays afloat and lets your soul, this puddle of water, stay out of the ocean. A dead body, then, is like a sinking ship, where the ocean floods in and mixes with your water, and your water is dispersed into the rest of the ocean as you lose your sense of shape and self.
>"What this procedure is doing is dragging your boat down just far enough so that the top of the boat is exactly level with the water. When it's like that, the ocean can rush in, but only at knee level, and your soul can keep itself from beind totally absorbed while using the boat's railing to keep itself from behind pulled out completely off the boat. Any deeper and the boat will just completely sink, and any less and the ocean can't rush in. That feeling of your water being touched by the ocean is the 'experience' I'm talking about, having your soul mingle with the ocean of the dead, because in a way, that's what mana stealth is. It's letting go of the 'shape' of your soul for a moment so that it resembles the ocean, or removing the metaphor, it makes your detectable mana indistinguishable from the air around it. Remember that even though people call it 'hiding' your mana, you're camoflauging your soul. Let's say you're trying to blend into this wall. Mana stealth would be looking exactly like this wall, but if you were to literally hide your mana, people would see a kobold shaped hole in the wall.
>"Anyways, experiencing this won't show you how to let go of your shape at will, but it will show you what it's like so that you have a sensation to chase rather than just stumbling around blindly hoping you figure it out. That's why it should be done here in Erja Nokol, so you can figure out exactly what this ocean is like, as mana stealthing here is a bit different than mana stealthing in other lands. We can do it in another land if you like, since figuring out how to do here is still easier after you learn how to do it elsewhere, but this is the direct route, and I'd question why you're doing an operation like this if you didn't want to take the most direct route as possible."
"Because our souls are supposed to be trapped here if we die?"
>"If you care about that. It's not like your scattered soul will have a consciousness to care, so it's more if you care about where the remnants of your soul is. It's true that it does take longer for your soul to scatter away in Erja Nokol's ocean, but it still happens." She finishes her lecture.
"And during this experience, could enemy necromancers yank my soul away?"
>"The experience happens so fast that even if they had a soul wizard looking at the right spot at the right ocean, they'd only see your soul poke its feet in for a couple of seconds, and that's it. A southern wizard would have to have been spending weeks to prepare a spell like that, and be able to find your soul poke inside in the span of a few seconds, and it's just too many ifs. It's possible, I understand your concern, but seeing that happen would easily be the wildest disaster I've seen in my entire life, and that's saying a lot."
>>
No. 954461 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158000139926.png - (27.84KB , 800x800 , 1305.png )
954461

>"Why," asks Aira almost in the middle of swallowing some food, "weren't we told to 'lose our shape' while meditating normally?"
>"Because it's just a metaphor. If they're told in terms like that, a lot of people get hung up on literally losing their shape or something like that, and end up taking longer to naturally learn it than they would if they weren't told anything. You can't truly understand what you're after here by just having people explain it in words. So I hope you understand why Holly spat out the word 'shorcut', because even with a perfect operation, you won't technically be any closer to mana stealthing like a pro than you were before, you'll just be given a better idea of how to do it. The good news is, though, is that people who do have those tools are able to attain mana stealth much faster, so in a way it is like an indirect shortcut. But once again, you have to survive, and have the experience, though having the experience just means being awake during the brink so that you can actually remember what it felt like, and that's why this hurts by design. Some boats also don't let themselves get to the water line until they're so waterlogged that there's no coming back - that is, you won't be at the brink until your body has inevitably fatal wounds even with healing magic."
"So this doesn't give a sudden power boost?"
>"... no, at least not physically, and not directly. It does make you harder to read, and can be a good stepping stone for your own mana control, so few survivors say that this operation wasn't worth it."

She looks to the side.

>"Just remember that we only have the survivor's opinions on that."
"Have you experienced it, yourself?"
>"I have, with being drowned to near-death."
"Was that safe?"
>"My instructor did a good job at not killing me, and it's one of the safer methods technically, but it took three weeks of being constantly drowned before I was able to stay awake for it. I'm not sure I ever fully recovered, either, but that's too personal and too irrelevant to bother talking about."
"And how many times have you done this before?"
>"This specifically I've done about 50 times, but I've also done hundreds of surgeries involving guts in the same area, so I know the internals very well."
"And how many died of those 50?"
>"...18." She says, after a second's hesitation but with some force behind her voice.
"Does that not mean the chances of dying are 18 out of 50?"
>"Given the circumstances, I'm proud more than half of them survived. Almost all of those 50 were not valuable knights, they were people who were on their final chances of being useful, and it was on par with pawns being thrown into Erja Nokol tar pits for the chance at becoming abominations. They weren't given healing tools or even clean medical supplies, and the stipulation given to me was that they were either going to learn how to mana sense quickly, or die trying, and I couldn't spend much time with any of them, so I just had to poke them quickly as best as I could without going slowly about it. The only reason why I did it was because any official surgeon would've just used the opportunity to experiment wildly on them instead of seriously try to maximize success. You two, on the other hand, will have just about the best available circumstances this side of the shroomleaf forest. I'm confident that if you're going to do this, you'll have a difficult time finding anyone better than me for it."
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No. 954462 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158000146475.png - (21.83KB , 800x800 , 1306.png )
954462

I mention Aira's past wound and other concerns, but they either get waved off or I'm assured my concern is noted and addressed.

>"Any other questions?" she asks. We remain silent. "Comments?"
"You have nice eyes."
>"Thank you, but I mean regarding the procedure. Any dumb questions?"
>"You're not an official surgeon with the empire?" asks Aira.
>"Oh, no, if I were, then this is where I'd ask for a hefty tip to 'ensure' a successful operation."
"Registered surgeons can guarantee a successful operation?" I ask, incredulous.
>"Anyone can," says Kylia. "And conveniently for them, the dead usually don't get the opportunity to ask for a refund. Oh, Fen, I had a question for you! Specifically, if the worst comes to pass, some might lay the blame at least partially on me."
"I would not blame you."
>"And since I'll do my best and I'm being upfront about the risks, I wouldn't blame myself either, but I'm not concerned about whether or not you or I feel that way. I'm concerned about your brother. If you die, am I going to have Sir Zizi come after me?"
"Hmm... I cannot promise that he won't feel ill will, but he isn't the sort to seek revenge or even harbor grudges. You do not need to fear retribution from him."
>"That's good enough for me, I'll assume you know your brother well enough."

That's a dangerous assumption, but I feel confident enough in that part of Zizi at the least.
>>
No. 954464 ID: e2f5cc

Hmm, a one in ten chance of death is honestly a lot better than I expected.

I can't think of much else to do other than rest up though, with the exception of asking this knowledge fountain of a woman about Zizi and why people are so scared of him, other than the obvious.
>>
No. 954465 ID: 88927d

Have you EVER seen your brother piss off or upset? We are talking about someone that can kill a Dragon Knight. If he seeks revenge, there is no stopping him.

Do Kylia/your foes a favor and ask him next time you can, i am also curious.
>>
No. 954467 ID: b1b4f3

She said it'll be painful. Just how much pain are we talking here? This procedure kinda sounds better suited to Aira than Fen when you take into account you have to keep from passing out, since as we've seen she is very resistant to being knocked out.

Also, Fen: reflect on how far you've come, and how much you've learned. How much stronger and faster are you? Have you learned any good techniques?
>>
No. 954469 ID: a9af05

>>954462
>Any other questions?
How does Kylia know when to stop cutting? Do she just guess or is there a way that she can tell?

Will we need to be strapped down and/or muzzled? If this is going to be painful, we might end up flailing around and screaming, which might make things harder for Kylia to do what she needs to do.

Can Kylia show us what the mana stealth looks like? I want to see if we can sense her.

"Are there any non-alcoholic drinks on the cart? The first time I tried an alcoholic drink, someone had put something in it to knock me out, so I no longer trust any alcoholic drinks."

Will we be guarded during the procedure? I wouldn't be surprised if someone sees this as a good opportunity to try and attack Fen!
>>
No. 954470 ID: 015bf2

>Zizi won't be a problem.
Kiki, on the other hand... think she'd go so far as to leave the shroomleaf forest?

Thank Kylia for her frank instructions, 1 in 10 is closer odds than you'd prefer, but you will still take the chance. Is there anything else you've forgotten to consider?

Ask Aira if there is anything she'd like to ask of you, in case you survive and she doesn't. You have no particular requests of her, but you felt like it would be fair to ask.

Anything else to consider? If not, then just enjoy the meal. It is pretty nice, isn't it?
>>
No. 954471 ID: 91ee5f

>>954462
Why don’t you ask about what stories Kylia has heard about your brother? No matter how many times you’ve asked, Zizi never told you anything when he returned home.

>>954469
>How does Kylia know when to stop cutting? Does she just guess or is there a way that she can tell?
That’s actually a good question.
>>
No. 954477 ID: bb78f2

>>954462
You know, I don't think Zizi could seek vengence on anyone as pretty as she is. Still a dangerous assumption though. I wonder, does she know Zizi personally? I know he's a legend, but I can't help but think everyone would underestimate a legend. She's treating him like a real threat.

Even if she's never met him, that must means she's gotten close to where he's done some damage, or knows someone who has.

Strangely enough, you might learn something about your brother from HER. You might want to ask her as your stupid question.
>>
No. 954481 ID: 1d7c77

Well, a caveat to add on to that might be that at least he'd probably come visiting. Your family would want your body and Zizi would be the one to get sent to do it. He might take a little convincing, since he hasn't met any of your friends himself, to trust them? But you're sure he'd give a chance for an explanation, and he would believe you died trying to get strong fast.

So, if it's important to stay awake, would it actually be good to take some sort of stimulant? Some equivalent of tea or coffee? Maybe arrange some sort of adrenaline rush? Also, if being generally healthy is likely to help stay awake and maybe make dying a slight less of a risk, would it be a waste to get some healing before the procedure, since it improves general healthiness?
>>
No. 954482 ID: c2f1f6

Sometimes I feel I know less about him than I think. He didn't exactly talk about his time in the empire much. It's understandable, but very often turns out to be frustrating.

Ehh, it's not important. Look, It sounds like this process from our end will be difficult, but uncomplicated. Is there anything we can do to help for your end?
>>
No. 954483 ID: 10c408

>>954471
Who said anything about cutting. She knows exactly where the organ in question is, and how deep it is.

I hope Fen isn't afraid of giant needles.
>>
No. 954486 ID: 1d7c77

Thinking on it, a theoretical best option seems like it would be to get someone hopped up on some alertness drug so that they can't pass out, or have a wizard use some similar magic effect since we've seen stamina restoration from them, or both, and then try the drowning option while under those effects. Might be worth a mention just for curiosity as to if that's plausible, though it seems like it would have been thought of.

Follow-up to the Erja thing, though, is there a chance that, going by the ocean metaphor, Erja might be more "turbulent" than the other oceans? Back in the mausoleum pawn days, we saw the dead stirring up ashes with no necromancer directing them. Any manifestations like that have been unnoticeable compared to what the necromancers are doing, here, but you'd imagine the local souls aren't happy. So, what if the ocean here has more waves, as it were? If it rejects you harder, or conversely, pulls more eagerly?
>>
No. 954488 ID: feecd8

>>954469
>>954471
>How does Kylia know when to stop cutting? Does she just guess or is there a way that she can tell?
She doesn't cut, she uses a needle to poke at the organ.

I think what you meant to ask was, "How does Kylia know when to stop inserting the needle?"

Because if she pokes too much, it causes death, and if she doesn't poke enough, the procedure won't work. So asking Kylia if she knows when she needs to stop or keep going would be the correct thing to ask.
>>
No. 954494 ID: afdebc

>Breaking into the imperial mail system isn't something that even mithril nobles take lightly, because it's a network made at the emperor's level.
It's not something that has to be taken lightly or heavily for whoever already controls the mail service. If the nobles have to break in, that's because the emperor isn't letting them trivially compete with his own intelligence service's existing monopoly.

So Kylia is a secret surgeon. How long until it's confirmed Holy is a secret ninja?


>If you die, am I going to have Sir Zizi come after me?
At that point, he might as well come after himself, for encouraging Fen to take all the risks he has.

There don't really seem to be any useful questions left to ask- she explained the procedure, and asking further details about exactly how she will do it don't change the odds of success. It just comes down to if we trust her to perform the operation, and if we actually think the operation is worth the risk.

And it's Fen, so of course we're doing this.
>>
No. 954519 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158007072886.png - (22.17KB , 800x800 , 1307.png )
954519

Then again, I've never seen Zizi upset. He was never quick to anger before he left for the empire, but when he returned, he seemed more like nothing could get to him. He's never had siblings die, though. Kiki might be truly angry, but... even though she's not a bad fighter, she does not have the level of danger that Zizi does.

"Do you know much about my brother? He never talked about his empire career. I sometimes think I don't know my brother as well as many in the empire."
>"Should I be worried if you're wrong about him seeking vengeance?"

I look at Kylia, again.

"Even if I am wrong about his want of revenge, I cannot imagine him exacting revenge on someone who looks the way you look."
>"Oh? I'll be sure to dress accordingly then, if he does. I've met with people who talked about Zizi, but I should be the one asking you to verify some of the odd tales I've heard about him. Is it true that Zizi is always dirty as though he never bathes?"
"Yes. He does bathe, but I somehow have no memories of him ever being completely clean. Who told you that?"
>"Best I not say."
"Neither I nor Zizi would be offended by whoever said what is true."
>"No, it's not out of fear of offending." Kylia says, with a very clear tone of finality, so I move on.
"What makes my brother so scary, besides the obvious?"
>"The obvious being that he can kill a dragon knight?"
"Yes."
>"Nothing I know of."
"That was my dumb question, then."

She laughs. Not strongly, and she cuts it off short as she sees the face I put on while pondering my next question.
>>
No. 954520 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158007074378.png - (30.51KB , 800x800 , 1309.png )
954520

"You said it's painful. How painful?"
>"Very. It's not the worst pain that's out there, it won't even compare to real torture, but it's still enough that you should be strapped down in case you get squirmy and make the wound worse. You can always have me stop at any time, and I'll be talking you through it as we do it. I'll be paying attention to your body to see when it can handle more poking, or when I need to back off to let it heal a bit so I don't go too far."
"I understand. Can you show me mana stealth?"

She disappears from my own sense of mana, as expected. I can't sense her, but it isn't as though my own sense of mana is truly honed as of yet.

I drink some of the non-alcoholic drinks. It was food chosen by Holly, so any alcoholic drinks are few and clearly marked.
>>
No. 954521 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158007081773.png - (30.51KB , 800x800 , 1309.png )
954521

"Will we be guarded?"
>"Yes, by a couple and myself. The fewer that know about it, the better."
"Would Erja Nokol's 'ocean' be more turbulent? That is, following the metaphor, would the ocean more aggressively tear me away from the boat?"

Kylia ponders that for a long moment.

>"There's reasons why that would be a concern, and why it wouldn't be a concern. I don't think it'll change the outcome, either way."

We talk for a moment about the drowning option, and about ways to stay awake, but Kylia seems strong minded against that option. Finally, Kylia turns to Aira.

>"Ask me something, Aira! You've had almost no questions."
>"Is that a problem?"
>"Being poorly informed is always a problem."

.....

>"That was my question." Aira states.
>"Okay, okay, I get it.
>"Fen asked every other question I thought of. Are any of the rooms reserved for nobles available?"
>"Sure." Kylia leans in to whisper to Aira. "Just remember what this tavern was made for, so even though the rooms are plenty safe physically, they're not safe to go talking openly in."
>"Why would I talk?"
>"Because I assume Fen's joining you."
>>
No. 954523 ID: 86eb65

Rooms?
>>
No. 954524 ID: 4f51b2

>>954519
I thought you had two brothers who die while they were in the empire. Where they anything like you or Zizi?
>>
No. 954525 ID: afdebc

>>Why would I talk
>>"Because I assume Fen's joining you."
"That's okay, we're less talkative without someone to ask questions of."

Just completely ignore the awkward subject of sharing bedrooms, Fen and Aira have already had that talk. If they share a room here, it's because they're both still paranoid.
>>
No. 954527 ID: b97d8a

Oh really? That means we can hold hands during?
>>
No. 954528 ID: e2f5cc

Well, why wouldn't we share a room? Since they're mainly for nobles the beds are surely more than enough for two people. Plus, it's still cold here ain't it?

I do wonder why Kylia thought you and Aira would sleep together though, since I don't think she's seen you two go to bed in the same private room.
>>
No. 954531 ID: 8d23f0

>>954521
"wouldn't Holly or Kylia here be better for keeping warm in the night, I am fairly hard and scaly, while they are soft and nicer to touch."
>>
No. 954532 ID: 015bf2

>Assume Fen is joining you.
"Only if she wants me to. Are cold rooms an issue here?"
>>
No. 954542 ID: 1ed92d

Wait a minute.... She said she was proud more than half survived and compared the dangerous version of the operation to be like jumping in the tar pits.

Does that mean the tarpits have a survival rate on par with the dangerous version? Man, no wonder so many people jump in there.

Also, Fen likes joining people in their rooms, but is a dedicated Lily-sexual so... Eh, let the doctor fantasize.
>>
No. 954551 ID: 88927d

... We are besties.
>>
No. 954558 ID: ce39da

"I think we'd feel safer together, and we won't have much to talk about in there. What's the issue?" Act like she's speaking a foreign language if she makes overt references or allusions.
>>
No. 954561 ID: baec18

>>954551
Indeed.
>>
No. 954564 ID: ac8352

Tell Kylia that she and holly are welcome to join you and aria.
>>
No. 954618 ID: a9af05

>>954521
>The fewer that know about it, the better.
Then would we need to be muzzled, in case we scream in pain? That way we don't have a bunch of soldiers rushing to our location thinking that there's been an attack of some kind.
>>
No. 954629 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158017539175.png - (24.09KB , 800x800 , 1310.png )
954629

I keep thinking about Zizi, and I realize I've completely forgotten about Ren and Len. They were my two siblings who died in this empire's conscripted army, but I often forget this fact, because it was from before I was born. Zizi never spoke of avenging them, and I can't imagine him making any particular effort to do so, although he was very young when Ren and Len died.

I focus back on the topic at hand.

"We're safer in numbers. Is there an issue?"
>"Oh, no, the rumors just seem true, is all."
>"Is that any of your business?" asks Aira.
>"Hm? Hmmmm. If that's your attitude, I can see why the rumors were getting spread like juicy gossip. Normally no one cares at all if a guy and a girl obviously get alone in a room and..." She makes some kind of gesture with her hands.
"Hold hands." I joke.

There's a pause, and then Kylia makes a long whistling exhale. She laughed normally earlier, but now she's doing some kind of stange, alternate laugh that I assume is a northern trait.

>"Okay, okay, I didn't want to make a big deal of it, I just had to indulge myself for a moment there and give you two a hard time."
>>
No. 954630 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158017540183.png - (71.69KB , 1200x800 , 1311.png )
954630

We're shown to the room. It's expensive looking, although the walls aren't laden with novelty items. I still have a couple questions for Kylia, but they're smaller questions that can be dealt with tomorrow.

"You are welcome to join us, Kylia." I say, with faith that Aira will voice complaints if she has any.
>"Oh, no thank you, I don't like to be seen in a room with anyone else for more than a couple of moments."
"Why not?"
>"I don't want to give customers any reasons to get the wrong idea about what I do, here. If you need anything... well, you're in Holly's tavern. You can find help, but I should go get some sleep fast. It's a long day tomorrow, and you two should try your best to sleep as well. Goodnight, Fen, Aira."
"Goodnight, Kylia."
>"'night." says Aira.
>>
No. 954631 ID: 465a14

initiate handholding protocol
>>
No. 954632 ID: 695467

I'm curious as to why Aira decided to go along with this as well, since it seemed like she was waiting for you to decided first. Ask if she's worried maybe?

Otherwise just get some rest, the decision's been made, no sense brooding over it.
>>
No. 954633 ID: e2f5cc

Seems like Aira has something on her mind. More than the whole going to have a needle poke a vital organ thing I mean. Go see whats up with your friend.
>>
No. 954634 ID: 86eb65

Inspect room for traps, assassins, ghouls, specters, and wraiths.

Then idly poke at the bed ceiling and ponder why it exists.
>>
No. 954635 ID: 1d7c77

How comfy! Check closet and drawers for assassins. We already know things can be overheard through here, better safe than sorry. Can't really talk about what exactly you're doing to be doing tomorrow, considering that, but you could have a more vague conversation with Aira about how much and why exactly she's driven to chase along with you on your high-risk pursuits of strength. She is her own kobold, of course, and you think she has good judgement I'm sure, but it might be something considerate to ask about.
>>
No. 954636 ID: 4f51b2

>>954630
Aira looks beutiful.
>>
No. 954637 ID: 3ce8ff

WHOA handholding is so LEWD!
>>
No. 954638 ID: afdebc

Man, this place is really a lot more luxurious than you've gotten used to.

>"I don't want to give customers any reasons to get the wrong idea about what I do, here.
Fair.

"So do we have any secrets that need discussing for listening ears?"
>>
No. 954640 ID: e7848c

Aria has been a hell of a friend during your career. Thank her for that. You don't have to hold hands if she doesn't want to, but a soft bed and the warm friend should rarely be declined. Especially in a war.
>>
No. 954641 ID: ce39da

Get properly undressed and lie down next to her. (Don't forget to keep a sword just shy of in your hand.)
"G'night, Aira."
>>
No. 954642 ID: 62654e

Ask Aria what she thinks about this ordeal, any remarks? If not, time to restb we are going to need it.
>>
No. 954643 ID: a9af05

>>954634
I highly doubt any of those things can get in here when the walls have a bunch of highly trained spies crawling around in them.
>>
No. 954644 ID: 015bf2

Make a quick check through the room, see if you can spot the hidden hidey holes and such. Then make brief small talk with Aira while spending a short while trying to detect whoever is inevitably spying on you.

Both of these actions might be useful practice for later, if you're ever in a place you don't trust.

Other than that, rest will be important, so do catch up on it while you can.
>>
No. 954646 ID: f09f50

>>954630
Okay, so something's definitely up with Aira. However, she's always been the sort to keep to herself. You both have made your decision, its best not to bother each other with pointless discussion. That said, do check the room a bit, and pull down the blanket above the bed for additional warmth. Why someone hung it above the bed will forever be a mystery.
>>
No. 954649 ID: b1b4f3

>>954630
Wow, that's a lot of storage space.
Well, bedtime is business as usual I suppose. Though now you have real places to put your stuff, and a comfier bed. Maybe you won't even need to cuddle up for warmth with those covers?
>>
No. 954653 ID: c2f1f6

...We forgot to decide who goes first. Eh, we can draw straws or something...

Remember to check the closet and under the bed for assassins. No they aren't there, but the fewer unknowns in the back of your head the better you'll sleep. Try to get comfortable, find the bed is too soft for what you're used to and curl up on a blanket on the floor.

>>954632
I also want to ask that question, but I also don't want to imply her decision is anything but her own or act overly protective, especially since we've made the same decision she has.
>>
No. 954654 ID: 12ef8b

You already complemented Kylia, may as well do the same with Aira.
>>
No. 954658 ID: 91ee5f

>>954630
Don’t talk about anything that you want to remain private. Especially with Zall’s spies in the walls listening all the time.
>>
No. 954685 ID: 0cd962

"Do you think we are making the right choice? We could probably learn stealth just fine on our own after a few weeks."

Check the room for the usual threats as you chat.
>>
No. 954692 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158023298183.png - (19.95KB , 800x800 , 1312.png )
954692

I look inside of this large container I could fit in. There's lockboxes on the side of the bed, too, with complimentary keys. I do it all out of curiosity as much as to check for any secret people, but the room is safe.

Aira's flops backwards into the pillow.
>>
No. 954693 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158023311133.png - (14.92KB , 800x800 , 1313.png )
954693

I inspect the bed for any spies inside, undress, and put my sword nearby. Once I get on the bed, Aira is under the covers. I notice they are heavy. The blanket at the top of the bed seems very light, I'm unsure why it is there, but it doesn't seem to be meant to be taken down. I follow Aira under the heavy blanket to speak in hushed whispers.

"Thanks, Aira, for being a reliable friend."
>"Ditto."
"May I ask why you chose to do this with me?"
>"Because it's smart."
"I'm glad you think so, but why do you think so?"
>"... I forget that you aren't as experienced at being a pawn as most of the rest of us. There have been many situations where we had to hide, but failed to do so. Most of the pawns around me died. By comparison, what we're going to do is safe, and will turn those dangerous situations into safer ones. In other words, choosing to do this increases our chances of survival, not harms it. I thought that's why you chose to do it."
"I am in a hurry to get stronger, and will take the chance even if there was also a chance we could learn mana stealth on our own in a few weeks."
>"It's too big of a chance that we'll be in danger before we learned on our own."
"When you put it like you did, I wonder if the others should have joined, too."
>"No, most soldiers assume they are going to die, and they try to control how they die. That's why most of us avoid any risk of dying like how we might. That, or they disagree that the chances of survival increase."
"Why do they assume they will die?"
>"Because if they think they might live, then every moment down here becomes terrifying. You appear to be in it to survive, so I have no idea how you are able to follow the orders we get reliably."

There's a moment of silence as I contemplate if or how to reply to that, before she holds my hand. I'd like to compliment her look like I did Kylia, but I don't think Aira cares about compliments like that.
>>
No. 954694 ID: 83bf07

>>954693
You're right. She's not that type of girl. Rest then, you two will need it. Wonder where her shirt went.

...she makes an excellent spoon.
>>
No. 954695 ID: 1d7c77

"I'm not sure I do think I might live. I just think I need to. If that makes sense."
>>
No. 954696 ID: ce39da

"I sometimes wonder if I'm even capable of feeling fear - if there's something wrong with me because of it. My nightmare made incarnate hardly stirred anything in me. Then again, that apparition wasn't exactly dangerous. That what it was trying to personify was only made clear after its true nature and purpose were already known might have blunted the effect a bit as well. What do you think?"
>>
No. 954698 ID: e2f5cc

Y'know, this is the second time you and Aira have slept together in seclusion the night before something highly dangerous, you think she has a confession to make like last time?

Because she does. People who are just friends don't hold hands, Fen.
>>
No. 954699 ID: 86eb65

"Do they worry about how people will view them after they are gone? That dying from a needle lessens there life somehow?"
>>
No. 954702 ID: 91ee5f

>>954693
I think it’s time to sleep. Don’t keep each other awake all night, since both of you are going to need your rest for what’s going to happen tomorrow.

>>954698
>People who are just friends don't hold hands, Fen.
I think Aira is just playing along with that joke Fen told Kylia earlier. A guy and a girl obviously get alone in a room and hold hands.
>>
No. 954704 ID: 0cd962

"Let's make a pact. If anything goes wrong the survivor will go beat up a necromancer and force them to bring us back. So if your soul ends up lost and confused in the crypt stay strong so I can find you."

"Of course I will be waiting for you to save me as well."
>>
No. 954705 ID: 91ee5f

>>954704
>go beat up a necromancer and force them to bring us back.
That is a terrible idea.
>>
No. 954706 ID: 721c60

"Maybe I'm not scared of fighting because I grew up with it and it's what I do best. Or maybe it's because of the dream I'm fighting for, which I will fail if I fail the army. I pursue my dream and help my friends along the way, it's a simpler life than it looks."
>>
No. 954712 ID: a9af05

>>954693
Time to sleep.

>>954694
I wouldn't be surprised if Fen doesn't understand that and asks what an eating utinsel has to do with sleeping next to someone?

>>954698
Fen already told Aira that he has his heart set on Lily, so I'd be surprised if Aira developed an feelings for him at all.

>>954704
That's not funny. Don't even joke about something like that. Nobody would want to be brought back by a necromancer.
>>
No. 954718 ID: b1b4f3

>>954693
"Let's continue to not die, then."
>>
No. 954724 ID: f133dc

Y'know, considering the way her life has changed thanks to him, it's be a little weird of Aira WASN'T into Fen.

Of course if she was she'd never ever admit that to anyone.
>>
No. 954730 ID: 015bf2

Close your eyes.

"I don't have time to fall behind or fail, so I try not to let useless fears get in the way. If I die, I die, but I aim to live. I want to have a chance at..."

Picture Lily in your mind. Recall your last parting hug. Squeeze the hand, almost involuntarily.
>>
No. 954733 ID: bb78f2

>>954693
Massage her hand a little bit brah. Gently. This is either moment for silence, or suggest that fighting for survival gives you an edge in momentum.

So long as it carries forward, so do you. You're riding the waves of life, not death. You're hoping fortune truly does favor the bold. The KObold.
>>
No. 954741 ID: ba3283

>>954724
She has previously identified as ace, and hasn't yet done anything to indicate otherwise. Fen isn't ignoring signals, he's respecting her stated position.
>>
No. 954742 ID: 094652

Well, it sounds like the rank and file take a form of insanity that allows them to cope with the constant conflict between their military doctrine, code of nobility, and survival instinct.

You? Love drove you insane a long time ago. You're working for the chance to savor it.
>>
No. 954746 ID: 4f51b2

>>954693
"I see it all as an obstacle that I have to overcome, honestly I don't know how I'd endure all this if I thought I'd die here. You can praise her for her bravery.
>>
No. 954750 ID: afdebc

>You appear to be in it to survive, so I have no idea how you are able to follow the orders we get reliably.
>There's a moment of silence as I contemplate if or how to reply to that
"I suppose with something to live for, I'm not afraid of risking death. Maybe that doesn't make much sense, but wanting something changed my outlook a lot."
>>
No. 954753 ID: 22da8c

"I don't think i fear death as much as i fear failure. You could say that failure and death are the same thing. But i gues i would rader die than fail in my goal. I don't what will i do if i don't succed. So dying isn' do bad, is just another obstacule."
>>
No. 954771 ID: e2f5cc

You probably should give Aira at least a little compliment about her looks, maybe something about how her eye patch looks great on her?
>>
No. 954787 ID: 03e95a

>>954771
Bad idea to mention "eyepatch" and "look" in the same sentence.
>>
No. 954792 ID: b1b4f3

This is not the time for compliments, she'll get the wrong idea.
>>
No. 954800 ID: 91ee5f

>>954792
I agree
>>
No. 954809 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158032352131.png - (10.57KB , 800x800 , 1314.png )
954809

"It's not that I don't think there's a chance I will die, but surviving here and advancing in rank is the only way I will live, not just survive. The fear I feel little compared to the thought of giving up and abandoning everything."
>"Sorry, I had forgotten about you and L." She takes her hand back.
"I don't mind the hand, but..." I don't know how to approach the topic about how affectionate it felt, even if it was just a simple grab.
>"I remembered the joke, but..." Even though she trails off, she's breathing in a way like she's trying to formulate other words. She, too, does not appear to have any idea how to approach this topic, and simply grabs my hand again."
>"Your hands are cold, but just remove them from mine if you find it inappropriate. On the previous topic, you do fear, then? You hide it well."
"All barbarians learn to hide it well, but lately, I have been able to do it so well that it may as well not be there."

I squeeze Aira's hand back. Aira may not make me feel the same way that Lily did, but I like and appreciate Aira enough that it still would feel wrong to push her away at all.

It's a very small hand.
>>
No. 954810 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158032357451.png - (53.31KB , 1200x800 , 1315.png )
954810

We sleep, get up, and skip breakfast all without event.

Kylia comes to meet us in our bedroom, and guides us through a tunnel under the tavern. I believe we're going underneath Zall's building, and soon we end up in a dark place that looks like one of those fabled dungeons I've heard stories about. There are no prisoners in the cells, anyway, but Kylia guides us past the area and into a cleaner looking room that's been set up for this ritual. I set my weapons in a box that Kylia gestures towards.

>"Sorry about the interior." says Kylia. She sounds more somber than usual, but it isn't hard to guess why. "I'll get some more candles, and this place is private. Each of you just lie on either of those two beds over there, since I'll be doing both of you at the same time."
"The beds are at a steep incline." I note.
>"The straps will keep you up and on them. If they were flat, it'd be even easier to fall asleep on."
"Will we have to be muzzled, to prevent screaming and getting attention?"
>"No. Sound doesn't travel far here, but moreso, I want you two to be capable of deciding to cancel the procedure at any point before or during. Gags and muzzles make that hard. Although..."
>>
No. 954811 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158032365105.png - (41.11KB , 800x800 , 1316.png )
954811

Kylia walks to a box, and from it, she pulls out a long needle.

>"There aren't many more chances to back out before the needle goes in. Any cold feet?"

I say 'no', and Aira gets herself onto one of the beds. I join her.
>>
No. 954812 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158032370759.png - (68.19KB , 1000x800 , 1317.png )
954812

rolled 85 = 85

Fen's survival roll is 1d200. A higher result is better.

>"Gippiks told me you didn't share your lunch with him."
"Huh? Is that guy still going on about that?"
>"Naw, I just remembered, but I never realized how much you ate. Did you have that much lunch when you didn't share?"
"Yeah, what of it?"
>"Heh, just seems a little mean now that I see how much you kept to yourself."
"That'll teach him to forget his own lunch. It's not like he starved, Nawm, he just had to survive 6 more hours till getting to go up to eat a dinner at the palace! I'm sure he complained the entire time to all the starving prisoners."
>"And us, yes. I guess nothing came of it, but be careful not sharing food like that, Moss. Your fellow guards might think you don't care about them."
"'Course I care." I lie, for the most part. This one's alright, mostly. "But I get the good food for lunch, so if I start giving it away to hungry guards, before long the whole floor is going to suddenly start 'forgetting' their lunch."
>"Damn, you really do think low of us, huh?"
"Am I wrong?"
>"Didn't say that. Just sayin', sometimes some people forget things perfectly innocent, and could use a little help for it."
"... you forgot your lunch, didn't you."
>>
No. 954813 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158032374916.png - (18.12KB , 800x800 , 1318.png )
954813

>"How dare you accuse me, Moss. I accept food as an apology."
>>
No. 954814 ID: 86eb65

Silently chop a hunk off the second sandwich and pass it over.
>>
No. 954815 ID: 5fc3a0

The roll was meant to be 1d100, to be clear. The previous spoiler text describing it as a 1d200 was incorrect, but the roll itself was correctly done.
>>
No. 954816 ID: 465a14

Give him part of one sando.
>>
No. 954817 ID: 0cd962

Give her a taste of your meat.
>>
No. 954818 ID: 1d7c77

"An apology, right. Not the same thing as sharing, at all. So long as I'm not gonna suddenly be surrounded by people getting offended at lunchtime, either."
>>
No. 954819 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158032810895.png - (29.79KB , 800x800 , 1319.png )
954819

I tear off a piece of my untouched sandwich and hand it to Nawm.

"As long as I don't start start 'offending' everyone right around lunchtime."
>"Oh, I won't be sharing this knowledge with anyone, haha."
"Why me, anyway? Am I the only one who remembered to pack a lunch?"
>"First off, you're a big softy and actually gave me something. Second, you bring in the best food. Third, I got told to tell you that a mail runner's waiting in the fourth study room. You have an important priority letter or something. Fourth, I'll pay you back and I trust you to not overprice your own food."
>>
No. 954820 ID: 465a14

Yeah, alright. Keep it in mind for later, time to go get the important letter and see what shenanigans are afoot.
>>
No. 954821 ID: e2f5cc

Lets go meet this mysterious mail man while you finish the half of the sandwich you're currently eating and just the other half, as a test to see what Nawm does with it.

And of course bring your sword in case they're here to merk you for whatever reason.
>>
No. 954822 ID: b1b4f3

>>954819
Important priority letter? That's weird. Fen's letters aren't priority, it must be from someone else. Better go check it out. Pack your lunch back up and go see what it is.
Are you in a good position to help Fen when he comes to get the scarf?
>>
No. 954824 ID: 8c4eb9

Damn they have you pegged to a T. Take your food and eat on the way.
>>
No. 954825 ID: 86eb65

"If by pay me back you mean deliver me a handcrafted lunch you made yourself we have a deal."

Then head off to meet the mail guy. Make sure you properly hand over your shift and follow procedures of course.
>>
No. 954828 ID: 0cd962

>>954825

Yes make her repay the favor in kind.
>>
No. 954833 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158033491148.png - (25.46KB , 800x800 , 1320.png )
954833

"I expect to be paid back in the form of your own handmade lunch, Nawm. Get someone to cover for me in case this mail takes longer than it should."

I grab my sword, dodge prisoner's hands, and head over to the study hall. Maybe it's a promotion so that I can actually get in a better position to help Fen when he comes over to get his scarf back. Or at least to a spot where I don't have to dodge prisoner hands.

The 'mail' runner looks to be wearing a year's worth of mail runner wages in cloth.

"Hello. I'm told I have urgent mail."
>"That's correct."
>>
No. 954834 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158033502343.png - (14.28KB , 800x800 , 1321.png )
954834

He hands me a few letters. One is Fen's. There's nothing unusual about the letter itself, it's just an update on how he's still alive and working on the Erja Nokol campaign, trying to get into Sir Zall's elite to be sent down in the mausoleum.

The other is from my ex-wife.

>"Hi, Moss. I hope your new job is better than you made it sound. I did mean it when I said I still cared for you, so I'm glad I met someone who knew your address so I could mail you. Please write back to me. I understand if you don't want to talk at great length with me, but I want to know if you're doing alright."

Then the other is from Gahn, a name I haven't seen since Fen stopped at that break town. He wrote in his usual, barely legible handwriting.

>"Hy Moss! I got on with some one at the Fins!" The Fence, I'm sure he means. "He told me allabowt ya! Bin buzy here but you beter beleve Im gonna nab ya when I'm in Graskin nekst! Sed you bin living that hi guard life, so your paying!" He ran out of room on the letter, here.

"That's all the mail?" I say to the overly well dressed 'mail runner'.
>"Haha, well, I was down here anyway, I thought I'd do the job even though I'm no mail runner. I'm here for an assignment for you."
"That is?"
>"My name is Lord Sayanos of Pocktown, and I'd like Fen the Red Maw to die. You may stop making eye contact with me, now."
>>
No. 954836 ID: 721c60

Tell him you're not allowed to accept such claim without proof.
>>
No. 954837 ID: 721c60

And if he properly authenticates, ask if he first convened of this with your lord and master, for Warlord Krix is the one who decides if you leave town.
>>
No. 954838 ID: e2f5cc

You've nothing to lose by asking some questions here, but you should definitely drop eye contact.

Some questions you could ask are:
Why? Wouldn't Fen murdering Raysan (or whatever his name was) be good for him, since one can can assume he's now the gold noble of that area?

Why me? Since Moss doesn't know about his letter(s?) getting intercepted, Moss probably believes that the last time Sayanos knows he was in contact with Fen was back at the trial.

What's in it for me? Gotta at least know how important this is to him, at least beyond coming here in person.

But no matter what you say (excluding "why me") you have no reason to be deceitful because, lets be honest here, you're not a great liar Moss, and a gold noble wouldn't appear in person if he didn't have all the cards he needed, so lying will only piss him off.
>>
No. 954840 ID: 721c60

>Why? Wouldn't Fen murdering Raysan (or whatever his name was) be good for him, since one can can assume he's now the gold noble of that area?
Following Rasyan's death, Pocktown (which was an enclave in Krix's jurisdiction) was reintegrated into it (which means this guy can't be higher than Stone). Everyone in Pocktown is pissed at this because, well, Krix.
>>
No. 954841 ID: b1b4f3

>>954834
Alright time to treat this guy as a noble. Bow and ask how you may serve. It's not like you're an assassin or anything, so there must be some other angle he wants your help with.

Also, the timing of those other letters is suspicious. I'd bet this guy told them about you and gave them money to buddy up to you and try to get information from you. Well, that or they were told where you were so that they would get back into your life and then make better hostages to ensure you do the job he's asking you to do. Or both!
>>
No. 954843 ID: b1b4f3

>>954840
Hmm... wouldn't Fen killing Krix be a good thing then?
>>
No. 954844 ID: ed9875

>>954834
Agree, but under the condition that you get moved out of guard duty.

By all means abuse this guy's pull to go wherever you want. You don't actually have to do anything if you get to leave in persuit.
>>
No. 954845 ID: 721c60

>>954843
Yes, but it's assumed Pocktown residents don't know Fen plans to kill Krix, and being caught informing this guy of that fact would be grounds for summary execution. And if this guy is actually a Krix loyalist in disguise sent to "test" Moss, Krix would definitely know he should have Moss killed.
>>
No. 954847 ID: 721c60

>>954844
>this guy's pull
If this guy really is from Pocktown, then he doesn't have any pull: Krix outranks him.
>>
No. 954848 ID: 721c60

Hm, I'm wondering if Moss could try and inform the guy with plausible deniability, such as "I'm sure my master will be pleased, and reward me handsomely if I kill the barbarian who has vowed to murder him."
>>
No. 954849 ID: bb78f2

>>954834
Do you have proof of your identity?
Why are you involving me of all people? There are more talented killers associated with the Red Maw over me, not to mention the distance between us.
Is this some elaborate double, triple, or quadruple plot where you say you want to kill the Red Maw, but mean something else entirely that won't really end up in his death?
>>
No. 954850 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158033798507.png - (18.28KB , 800x800 , 1322.png )
954850

"Do you have proof?" I drop eye contact, and he peels back his cloth to show a stone coin of identification. I stand up straight and forward, other than my head. Between his coin and him coming down here, where the public isn't normally allowed, I'd have to be an idiot with a deathwish to press it further. I already need to start picking my words carefully.

"Why do you want Fen dead?"
>"Do you think we would just sit back and let the person who killed a gold noble go free? Do you know how bad of a message that sends, that murderers of nobles can get away freely? Or the message that those who benefited from Lord Rasyan's passing welcome such a murderer? It's a stupid question, Moss."
"Why did you come to me, for that?"
>"I don't have patience for stupid questions, Moss."
"I'm no assassin, so I assume there's another angle you want my help with."
>"The only 'angle' here is that unlike everyone else in town, Fen doesn't see you as an enemy. So I'm telling you to walk up to him, give him a big pat on the back, and put a dagger through it, or whatever implement you want. You don't need to be an assassin to kill someone, you know."
>>
No. 954851 ID: e2f5cc

"... He's paranoid. Really, really paranoid. He said in one of his letters that wears his plate mail pretty much whenever he isn't sleeping, which would definitely include being in an presumably hostile town. Plus, for all he knows, something like, well, this happened, so I'm not sure if he'll even trust me enough to slip a knife in his... Whatevers not armored."

I actually do really like the idea of Moss turning against Fen, but this current "plan" is just suicide.
>>
No. 954852 ID: 721c60

"There's a reason Fen doesn't see me as an enemy. How much do you price personal betrayal?"
>>
No. 954853 ID: 86eb65

"Fair enough. So assuming I agree how would this work?"

They are either going to bribe you with gold or threaten you with horrible blackmail/family murder. For the moment your best bet is to not assume anything and stay interested but non committal.

Your best bet is to make him think that you are friends with Fen because you are following his rising star. That you follow/like Fen because of the benefits that he could bring you.

We want him to think that you would backstab Fen if larger and more immediate benefits were dangled in front of you.

Now of course if they have a truth mage welp what you going to do.

So stay curious and see where he is going with this.
>>
No. 954854 ID: 3ce8ff

>>954850
What are the expected consequences of
A not wanting to be stuck in Erja Nokol
B not stabbing a friend in the back
>>
No. 954855 ID: b1b4f3

>>954850
>Do you think we would just sit back and let the person who killed a gold noble go free?
Don't say this, but isn't that kind of thinking a bit treasonous? The court decided his punishment. He's been punished, and to imply otherwise is to disrespect the authority of the court, which is (apparently) the HIGHEST authority. I wonder if you can do something with this information...

Anyway, ask him if you can turn this down, because you don't think your chances of success are very high. If this is being forced upon you, ask what happens if you fail but Fen doesn't kill you for some reason.
...that gives me an idea. You could accept this job, make an obvious attempt but fail, and then Fen takes something from your (hopefully still alive)body that helps him get to Krix.
>>
No. 954857 ID: 695467

Ok, well unless they want to offer you the choice of a deathwish, disagreeing or going to Erja Nokol, you'll be waiting here for Fen to claim his dragon cloth and when he does he's not gonna be here with peaceful intentions. So there's no need to actually follow through with agreeing.

You're going to have to show a degree of reluctance / feign being convinced before agreeing, since he is asking you to betrayal both a friend and a very dangerous person.

So maybe >>954852 but add "of someone who could easily kill me."

Or just "Why should I betray a friend who could easily kill me if I tried to kill them?" Not mentioning price keeps it from being a matter of sufficient payment, and more a matter of motivation e.g. if they think you're too fearful of being killed by Fen to try.

>>954851
Don't give the enemy information
>>
No. 954860 ID: bb78f2

>>954850
Hmm, guess we have to ask the polite way
Does he have means to both get us in and out of Erja Nokol, while Fen's in the middle of a mission for an army of our Kingdom, whilst being surrounded by talented assassin's that are his compatriots?

Do you have any intel for me about those compatriots? Fen has been smartly sparse with the details in his letters, and I don't see that changing anytime soon, especially if I start prying in them.

What of leave for my current station? Do I have it?
>>
No. 954861 ID: 10c408

"No, but you do have to be one to just slip past the security measures and armed forces to get close enough to grand knight Zall's subordinates, let alone start stabbing them."

I don't think this guy is who he says he is. If he is, then he's likely to try and kill you if you keep playing dumb.
>>
No. 954862 ID: afdebc

Lord Rasyan (of Pocktown) held dominion over the eastern district of Turtle's Hideaway, as a gold noble. Warlord Krix is the gold currently in control of the Western district.

Unclear from context if Lord Sayanos is Lord Raysan's successor (and their house got downgraded from gold to stone after the loss of status / perceived weakness from Raysan's ignoble death) or if Lord Sayanos is the stone noble who managed Pocktown under Rasyan.

>what do
Well, I'd like to say something glibe, like "My lord, I'm neither a good assassin to kill a man nobles and actual assassins have failed to kill, nor a good enough liar to play the game where I pretend to agree with your request."

But he's a noble, there's no repercussions for him if he just kills Moss for refusing him, and Moss likely can't deal with the consequences of killing a noble, even assuming this one loses.

So grit your teeth and agree. "I obey, my Lord. So long as Warlord Krix does not order otherwise."

Add one guy to the list of people Fen has to kill. If he makes it back here, kills Krix and reclaims his dragocloth, he'll be a bigger bear than this guy anyways and you won't have to care what Sayanos thinks.
>>
No. 954863 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158034220354.png - (18.28KB , 800x800 , 1322.png )
954863

"He's a paranoid barbarian. I don't think he'll let me get as close to him as one might think. How would this even work, assuming I agree to this?"
>"You get an escort to Erja Nokol through whatever quarantine is still there by the time you arrive, where you'll find Fen and invite him to drinks, or whatever it is that would make him lower his guard."
"And on success, of personal betrayal of a highly danger draconian?"
>"Then you get paid well enough that you won't need to work for a long time. And if you like work, I can put you in just about any job you could dream of."
"You can pull me out of this job?"
>"I already talked to your captain about pulling you for this assignment. He's agreed. All these questions are making it sound like you're hesitating."
"... I don't think as highly of my chances as you might."
>"You'll have my resources to use. People, spies, money, whatever you need to enact an assassination plan. And that plan can be of your own choosing, so long as I hear of it. You know him and what will get his guard down better than I. I'd suggest you try to succeed, because now it sounds like you're trying to decline."

I'm not seeing a whole lot of ways this can end other than either me tossing out the words "I obey, my Lord," or my corpse getting tossed out.

That is, other than me successfully, somehow convincing this guy that I'm sure one of the worst people he could choose to drag me into hidden assassination schemes.
>>
No. 954865 ID: afdebc

Okay, so if you stay here: you have to survive until Fen comes for Krix, help him, hope he wins, then you're free. And you have to survive this noble's displeasure (more assassins) at the same time too.

If you say yes: you get sent to the warzone, defect to join Fen and enlist in the army as soon as you meet up. Then not get killed in a warzone, and survive if this noble sends assassins after you for betraying him.

If you actually try to kill Fen: even if Fen doesn't kill you (he totally will, and then he'll feel bad about it) you have to not get killed by Fen's army buddies, his mutant buddies, his brother, or the warzone.

...you've got assassins after you no matter which answer you give. Saying no to Lord Sayanos gets the least scary assassins sent after you.

"I'm sorry, my Lord. I don't believe I could succeed, and even if I did, the war or his brother would kill me."
>>
No. 954866 ID: 10c408

Honestly, you are going to have to lie to this noble to get him off your back.

And that means bluffing, which I've got two ideas about.

1: lie about the sham trial that lady apanya put on, probably something to do with standing orders you've got from someone who is so far up the foodchain that this guy pulling weight to have you removed is a Bad Idea for him.

2: make up a lie involving the correspondence you've had with Fen. There's hopefully a lot of opportune creativity you can use for your bluff, like saying that Fen's actually going crazy or that Zall has threatened to start chasing down leads to figure out who's head he can actually cut off to stopp all the assassination attempts on Fen even though that's not actually his job.
>>
No. 954867 ID: 465a14

This isn't a secret you let people walk away from. Sayanos has the situation under his control. Moss has no support. We've given about as much resistance as he probably expects and tolerates, so time to play along. Figure out what's up, leech resources off him, and go to the warzone, since them approaching you instead of someone already close to Fen means they don't have enough influence in the warzone to keep the situation entirely under their control there. If you can get a logistics job in the warzone, it's safer than trying to deal with a noble conspiracy that wants you dead.

So, we need to fabricate a complicated plan to deal with Fen's paranoia and justify taking some resources from them and get a relatively secure job in the army. Gather some information while we're at it and it should be our best bet of getting out of this.
>>
No. 954868 ID: 86eb65

Well agreeing would get you close to Fen. Close to Fen with money and men and resources. You could use those to secretly help him or openly help him for a bit.

That and its probably safer near Fen now that Fen's enemies know about you. If you stay here you will likely end up a hostage to discourage Fen.

(But you would be in undead territory.)

This guy does not seem horribly bright. Fen is a blood knight now right? That is minor noble territory and this guy is just a stone noble. And the idea that you will waltz into a army base and kill a knight and get away with it?

"So how cushy of a job are we talking about? Guard captain with a little house in town maybe?"



Unless you have a strong reason for staying here I think hanging out with Fen and helping him might be best.
>>
No. 954869 ID: c2f1f6

How do you feel about faking your own death? He mentioned resources, you'll have an opportunity to learn who and what is opposing Fen. You get 'caught' or 'killed' in your attempt, spill the beans, and lay low far FAR from this shitty job.

Make some demands that are less then reasonable, it may reveal he doesn't plan on letting you live at all.
>>
No. 954874 ID: 1d7c77

"No one of my station would rightfully deny one of yours, my lord, except under one condition: that it would go against the wishes of one who is yet higher still. Lady Apanya was the one who suggested my reassignment here, and in truth, if it were not for that then I would not have come here. Perhaps she cares and perhaps not, but for one such as myself the merest off-hand remark of a mithril noble should be as a command, should it not?"
>>
No. 954876 ID: 015bf2

Okay. Refuge in audacity. It's about the only hope you have to maintain your position here, where you could potentially be useful to Fen in giving Krix his bloody what-for. Mainly because what you're about to say could even be so damn true.

"Fine, I wasn't sure where you wanted to go with this beyond some nebulous assassination plan, but if that is all... I will have to decline. Lord Krix would have more than my hide if I let you spoil his own plans. Heh. I'm sure he'd laugh, and then some, if he knew rivals in influence would pay out of pocket for his benefit, but I suspect it would behoove me not to mention any of this ever took place."

Smile stiffly.

"Did you honestly think, my lord, someone with a connection to Red Maw was not already wrapped up in schemes? Forgive me, Lord Sayanos, but you are simply too late for the recruitment drive."

Sigh, and then shrug.

"If you do not believe me, ask yourself this. What would I gain from maintaining connections with Fen at this point? Why would I go out of my way, serving in this place - serving under Lord Krix - being friends with the very Red Maw whose bounty Krix has raised and raised again? It would be dangerous. Risky. Frankly speaking, suicide. Unless... it was sanctioned. Tolerated. In short, whether as bait or blade, Krix intends to use me."

Fold your arms.

"As the only one of his tools, as you surmised, with the prior friendly relationship, Lord Krix already seeks to use me to kill Fen. And if you ruin that opportunity, Lord Sayanos, with your own plot, I am certain Krix will be... displeased. With you - and Pocktown - no longer having a Gold's support, is that ire something you really want to risk?"

Shrug.

"That must be your choice to make. I'm just surprised you wouldn't have waited until Red Maw took first crack at Lord Krix, or the bounty hunters succeeded, making your mission moot. You'd either save money, or one of your rivals would fall, after which you can then try to take advantage."
>>
No. 954877 ID: bb78f2

>>954863
My best play is to depress him so hard that he does nothing.

In all honesty, despite the gains I can make, I really don't want to do it. But I will, because a Lord demands it of me. The reality is that I hope I fail and Fen kills me, as that's the best way this can turn out for me now that you've asked.

I won't betray your plot as I know the risks, I have an ex-wife I somewhat still care about you can hurt if I do midway through. If you threaten to kill her her merely for my failure and death due to my lack of passion towards this goal, then that is a wasted gesture, as one cannot even gain a passion for success from that. I'm already a dead man walking, now that you've asked this of me. Whether I kill him and physically live, or he or one of his friends kills me physically, I am already dead. He may spare me, I suppose, but then I think that will only get me sent here as a prisoner, so I may as way take my life in the medbay upon failure.

If this is the sword you choose to wield my lord, it will swing, but it WILL break, for it is brittle and cheap.
>>
No. 954880 ID: 39e3f1

If Lord Krix himself felt that he should take Lady Apanya's suggestion to accept you into service without objection, your being nervous at even the slightest hint of going against her desires is quite justifiable. Would you willingly take responsibility for even the slight chance of displeasing her, Lord Sayanos? I will be nothing if not honest if a mithril noble should ever ask me questions.
>>
No. 954881 ID: c2f1f6

Ask him to assure you this isn't some test of loyalty from Lady Apanya. If he asks why, tell him if that's the case saying 'no' to his request is the only way you can see yourself surviving this.
>>
No. 954883 ID: e2f5cc

You know what? Do it. Legitimately try and kill Fen.

Think about it. What has he honestly done for you Moss? He's been a decent friend in the, what, day you spend time with him? But other than that, he's solely been a negative on your life.

First getting you involved with the dragoncloth debacle in general, and you could've reasonably been pinned as an accomplice to him by that girl who saw you, Gahn and Fen when he was asking around for Raysan shortly before murdering him in an area you could bet would be argued as in your jurisdiction.

After that you got to chill for a solid week or two before you had to run for what was it, eight hours for the trial about Raysans death, which you were probably only spared the wrath of due to Lady Apyana using it for her own gain. Who also, of course, put you working under the person who seems to be one of the few people you truly despise, being surrounded on one side by those loyal to him and on the other by people deranged enough to call you "chicken fatty".

And for what? A chance he might kill Krix? One man against an army led by someone as strong as Fen is... Aren't exactly good odds. And if he fails, and you're found out? You'll be thrown to the prisoners if you lucky, and will likely become well acquainted with the limits of healing magic, if you get me.

But if you go along with this? You'll no doubt have the resources to deal with one man, and to be protected from the aftermath, be it a legendarily dangerous but fortunately unsubtle brother or vengeful squadmates that wont be able to shirk their duties forever. And in the end you'll be rewarded with the only thing you wanted out of this: A quiet life, perhaps with Nawm or the ocean of women you'll be able to meet.

But if you try to play hero, and use what'll get here to help Fen? There's no end game to that, only suffering. Fen won't care enough to kill Sayanos, but those under both him and Krix certainly will care enough to hunt you for the rest of your days, and who would protect you? Fen wouldn't be able to budget people well enough to save you forever, So how could this end except with you dead? At the very least, remember where not killing Fen when you had the chance got you.
>>
No. 954885 ID: b1b4f3

>>954863
Heh, neither character here knows that the army is running an extremely tight ship right now. This mission has zero chance of success because they probably won't even let Moss in.

Tell him you'll obey of course. Then ask him how you're going to escape after Fen is dead. I don't think the army will appreciate you assassinating one of their knights.
>>
No. 954890 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158035264947.png - (28.11KB , 800x800 , 1324.png )
954890

I can't spend more than a few seconds thinking to myself, and I'm just starting to get idea about how to fake my own death, or make up speeches I couldn't hope to replicate convincingly.

"You're a stone noble, right?"
>"Yes?"
"I'd need a lot of resources to kill Fen. Even when I met him, there wasn't a single point when he wasn't on guard, and now he has an entire squad around him. A cushy job, you said? Guard captain, in town, maybe with a little house?"
>"Here? I'm sure I could pull strings. In Pocktown? You could have your own room in the palace itself."
"And you say you've cleared it with my guard, but have you also cleared it with Lady Apanya? She made an offhand remark about -
>"I have read the records, and I assure you that Lady Apanya does not give the slightest care about what you do, it was merely a kind gesture to get you to be more useful than some lazy guard in a breaktown."

... I don't know if I agree, but that's a thought to keep to myself.

It's not like Fen is the greatest friend I've ever had, certainly not much compared to all the people this noble can threaten, but all the same this assassination business is beyond me.

"I'm a dead man, then. I'll accept because I'm in no station or position to decline. I'll be your sword, but you should know it's a brittle one."
>"Moss." He puts his hand on my shoulder. "Have a little more faith in yourself."
>>
No. 954891 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158035266070.png - (35.61KB , 800x800 , 1325.png )
954891

"Ghk?!"
>>
No. 954892 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158035272030.png - (22.38KB , 800x800 , 1326.png )
954892

He really just kneed my crotch?!

>"Because if you fail, your ex wife will die, your friend Gahn will die, any other friend you've had will die, all until you either doom every dirt trodding peasant you ever speak to until you kill yourself so you don't have to see it all happen, even though you know it will. And you can bet that at some point during that, someone else will succeed in killing Fen, if not you or another agent of mine, then one of my rivals, Lord Krix himself, or just the war he's in. I'll be sending your escort in a couple of days. Don't try anything stupid until then, like your bad tone I've been trying to look past this whole time. Or, really, anything that isn't saying 'understood, my lord'."
>>
No. 954894 ID: 1d7c77

Well, it'll probably be handy for Fen to fake his death at some point anyway, so that's one idea. Think you could contrive to visit the Fence on your way down? I know you don't like her, but Cheese is one of the few people who would and could help you about this.
>>
No. 954895 ID: 86eb65

"Understood my Lord."

All in all that went well. You could have much worse than a knee in the balls and some empty threats to your friends and family. Cause this guy can rant a bit but a Stone noble backed by a nervous warlord is not as scary as crossing a Mythril and getting all your relatives turned into abominations or something.

Only two options really. Side with Fen and help him fuck up your enemies or side with your enemies and probably die faster via backstabbing.
>>
No. 954896 ID: 10c408

Well then, we're going to have wait to dick over Krix until after making damned sure THIS fucker and his syndicate are eliminated.
>>
No. 954897 ID: c2f1f6

Yeah, it's bad, but you could have worse enemies than a guy who's so used to getting what he wants he doesn't recognize a bad idea when he sees it.

Tell Nawm to keep his money, you need him to send some letters for you.
>>
No. 954898 ID: baec18

>>954893
This, first of all.

Secondly, we need to get the support of some powerful people in short order, preferably before mister nobility here loses his patience in a few months or whatever. The people i can think of who are both scary enough to help and have even a small chance of actually helping:
Lady Apanya, Zizi, Fen's superiors. Zizi I think will probably help for sure, but I have no idea HOW he'd help, or how you'd even get a message to him. The other two are crapshoots, but all our buds and ourselves are facing death here, so might as well feel it out once you get to Erja.
>>
No. 954899 ID: 10c408

>>954897
It doesn't have to be Nawn, who is literally the first person we've been introduced to in this thread. I'm sure Moss knows far more trustworthy people to send letters.
>>
No. 954900 ID: b1b4f3

>>954892
Well, say the thing.

Once he's gone, inspect your letters again. Check the seals. Were they tampered with? The mail has some protections, maybe you can use that to get rid of this fucker.
>>
No. 954901 ID: e2f5cc

"Understood, my Lord."

Isn't that last exchange a good summary of your life recently?
Trying in vain to convince people you aren't better than you look, getting kicked in the dick (this time literally) then being told to do something no sane man should think you could do, but since literally everyone you know is on the line, you have no choice but to soldier on until the next thing finally kills you.

So once again, I say you legitimately try and kill Fen with all the heart you can muster, since you know that anything less is death.

Oh, and go see if the other half of your sandwich is still there.
>>
No. 954902 ID: afdebc

"Understood my Lord."

He was absolutely going to make that threat about killing everyone you cared about before you made any decision. This was always a "you don't have a choice" choice, he was always going to offer you both the carrot and a stick (to the balls).

Not really much you can do to save anyone, short of getting Sayanos killed before you fail to kill Fen (because, be honest, you're not that kind of person, and even if you were, Fen could take you in a fight). Which will be tricky, with your only noble killing buddy stuck in an underground tower for the moment.
>>
No. 954903 ID: 1d7c77

Oh, if there was anything you wanted to do that you couldn't because it would catch up with you eventually, you could try doing it before you leave. Best of a bad situation and all that.
>>
No. 954905 ID: 10c408

>>954901
There are other things methods that that Moss can pursue than doing as this asswipe commands, damn you. This is not the hill that Moss should willingly choose to die on.
>>
No. 954907 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158035608099.png - (24.27KB , 800x800 , 1327.png )
954907

"Understood, my lord." I cough it out and I'm not proud of it.

Hours later...

>"Seriously. What happened?"
"Don't want to talk about it, Nawm."
>"Okay, fine, it's easy enough to assume. You pissed someone off enough to send a mail order knee to the balls, and they had to pay such a steep fee that the mail runner bought some fancy looking robes. I saw 'em on the way out, and that was some prime cloth."

I didn't make it back onto my feet until Nawm found me in that room.

I could try to kill Fen. Maybe he would see me. The hardest part would be to keep a calm exterior without him catching on that something's wrong. It's not like Fen means the world to me. The chances of him killing Krix aren't good. I still don't want to.

I don't just 'despise' Krix. I'd happily give Sayanos a heartfelt kiss sooner than I'd give an unenthused nod towards Krix. As bad as Fen's chances are, they're too good to just throw away. Even if I did kill Fen and got away with it, I don't know if I could live with myself, knowing that I went back to 'relaxing' in break towns because I did as this asshole noble commanded, playing their asshole noble games of setting friends killing friends.

In fact come to think of it, I want to be here. I've been too lazy here! I want to work myself into a good position to help Fen raise hell, and make my shitty time as a guard worth it. At this point I want to do it myself if that's what has to be done, and someone has to do it. Krix has to die. Every day, the prison is reminding me of that. I'm not going to Erja Nokol without a plan, and I'm not going to go back to living in a break town.

But I can't deal with this one by myself. I doubt that ass was right about Lady Apanya, but what of it? I can't just go knocking through the mithril palace, walk up to Lady Apanya and demand clarification about it. Did Fen have other superiors? Erja Nokol army leaders are too busy with the war to deal with turtle politics. All they could do is better protect Fen while he's there.

... Zizi? I have no idea where I'd find him. It'd take me so long that Sayanos would figure I'm running away, and start killing.

I can't trust the mail. The seals on my letters were broken already, I eventually noticed. There's supposed to be protections on the mail, but I can't just go telling on them. I'd have to go through layers of people who would kill me for asking the wrong questions first, before I could get to the people who care about the integrity of the mail.

Cheese.

I could run to the Fence and find Cheese. The fence isn't even that far, I could make it tonight and back here tomorrow morning. Someone in the guards might notice, but if I'm quick enough, maybe not. Overthrowing nobles is practically Cheese's job. At least I could get some advice from her. I might not like her, but I'd marry her before giving Sayanos that kiss.

>"That serious, huh." Nawm snaps me out of my thought. "Go ahead and fall asleep on the counter like usual, I'll carry you back this time, promise."
>>
No. 954908 ID: 86eb65

Cheese is your best bet I think.

Nawm seems decent. Want to loop her in? The whole getting tortured to death deal the noble gave you might motivate her. If they are going to target your friends and family why not run away with them.

Anyways see if Nawm can cover for you when you run to cheese. Slow down the drinking so you can make the run.
>>
No. 954909 ID: e2f5cc

>>954908
Yeah, gotta agree with this. Trusting Nawm is a risk but this whole plan is a risk, so whats one more?
>>
No. 954911 ID: b1b4f3

>>954907
Sounds like Cheese is your only hope. Bring the broken seal letters, she might be able to do something with them.
Except... you need to be able to get there without Sayano finding out. Is that possible? Can you use this guy? Or is it too suspicious that he showed up to rub elbows with you the same day Sayano paid a visit?
>>
No. 954912 ID: bb78f2

>>954907
Nawm, could you cover for me tonight? I need to get out of this place and let loose some steam. This town is getting to me.
>>
No. 954913 ID: afdebc

>I could try to kill Fen.
Even if you succeeded, do you think his army buddies would let you live? As much as Fen is good at making enemies, he also seems oddly good at making loyal friends.

Plus then you'd have to survive the actual war down there, which would be no joke.

>>954907
>Cheese
That's honestly your best plan if you don't want to just lay back and get sent on the mission. Problem is, of course, Sayanos has the people and resources to watch you, and it won't do much good if you're seen or noticed. You'd need someone you can send to her, or someone to help you cover.
>>
No. 954914 ID: 1d7c77

Easy enough to cover for being absent with your fellow guards, just let them believe you're going to spend the night drowning your sorrows in something harder. Or softer, though I feel like I remember some mention of you having better options than going out into town for that. So long as you turn up in the morning and don't look like you're unable to do your job, probably no-one will care.

I noticed that Sayanos only mentioned people in your letters, which he had on him, suggesting he just looked at them and hasn't actually bothered finding out anything much else about you. He clearly doesn't give a shit about you beyond your potential usefulness. It's possible that in the case that, say, you were able to convincingly fake your death, he wouldn't bother following through on his threats. That's one suggestion. Cheese could help you with that, or with other things like convincingly faking a message from Apanya to knock it off. You need someone who can get some things done, though, either way, and Cheese is the one.
>>
No. 954917 ID: 1d7c77

Things are a bit odd, though. Let's think on it. First of all, Sayonos presented himself as a stone noble, right? Isn't that weird? He should be in favor of gold nobles getting killed, because it opens up promotion possibilities for him - and it's not like nobles getting killed is that weird in the empire, from the impression I've gotten. Second, he came himself. Nobles don't hoof around the place on their own just to deliver ultimatums like this, do they? They'd get someone else to do it. The only reason he wouldn't is because he can't trust any underling to do it, probably because they might be spies for someone else. And if he had to do it himself, something or someone has to be making him do it, because why would he want Fen dead?

My read is, Sayonos is being pressured by his superior to find some avenue to killing Fen, but has had the details left to him. As part of this Sayonos has been intercepting Fen's mail - a big crime, explaining why he has to take care of implementing anything he finds out from it himself - and discovers him sending friendly-sounding messages to you. Great, he thinks, I'll bully this guy into killing Fen.

I don't think he's as deep into this as he pretends to be. He probably doesn't have much in the way of spies around, and he might be relatively easy to convince you're not worth expending a lot of resources on. You might even be able to turn things back on him if you can find some evidence of him tampering with the mail and get it through a shortcut to someone who cares. Again, Cheese could help you, and if you come to her with "hey we might have a chance to get a noble in the blackmail pocket" she'll be more happy than if you just come asking for help.
>>
No. 954918 ID: 1d7c77

So bring Cheese your letters, in case she can find evidence of tampering.
>>
No. 954919 ID: 10c408

Cheese is your best bet, though the trick is getting initial contact with her without anyone under Krix or Sayanos' payroll noticing.

And while I'm sure you can actually make the trek and back again to her, you'll likely be spotted by someone. Your best option is send mail in an irregular manner that no one would be paying attention to.

A merchant heading to the Fence could probably be trusted enough to drop off a letter for her if paid enough.
>>
No. 954920 ID: c2f1f6

If you're going to kill Fen, it won't be because that cocksucker ordered you to. Go to cheese. You'll reduce suspicion by being isolated from whatever she does, that way you can focus entirely on planning your assassination or stalling.

Tell Nawm that won't be necessary, but if anybody asks, you want him to say that he did.
>>
No. 954921 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158035860865.png - (17.35KB , 800x800 , 1328.png )
954921

If I don't run, I send mail, but if they can see me leave town in the dead of night, they can see me send mail. By the time the letters even reach their destination, I may be whisked away to Erja Nokol already.

I'm going to run.

Nawm could cover. She's worked with me awhile. She might not be instantly trustworthy with the biggest secrets I have, but I have no one else here. I wouldn't even need to tell her in the best case, but a run to the fence and back will be cutting it too close, and that's assuming I can find Cheese and tell her everything quick.

"Nawm. I need to go somewhere, tonight. Can you cover for me? I might be late to guard duty, tomorrow."
>"What am I supposed to tell them?"
"... I don't know."

She looks at me strangely.

>"I didn't tell you this, but the fuckin' captain of the guard, upon hearing that a mail runner kicked a guard in the balls before nonchalantly walking off, shrugged and told me to drop and forget about it, because you're a tough guy. Here's the thing, Moss. I don't need or want to hear the details, but you've got to at least warn me if I'm going to be making some enemies by being your accomplice in whatever it is you're doing."
>>
No. 954922 ID: c2f1f6

I don't think they care whether you are or not.
>>
No. 954923 ID: 1d7c77

"I hate to say it, Nawm, but whatever you choose to do now probably isn't going to make a difference there. Aside from the kick to the balls I just got the old "hey nice friends and family you have" bit thrown at me. I don't know if they think you count but if you don't then they don't care about you and if you do then you're going to want me to get to work making this thing go away. I'll promise you nothing I'm going to do involves any of the local problems."
>>
No. 954925 ID: baec18

>>954921
She'll probably be fine.
In retrospect the only people important or relevant to us the blueblood mentioned were the names contained in the letters he swiped. He might not even actually... know all that much?
Or at the very least underestimates the strange friends Fen has made. The fact that he showed up in person, and did the whole intimidation thing in person, as a *noble* just seems shady to me.

And even if she won't be fine, don't tell her that. She's lookin' nervous. The "i will rat you out if you say the wrong thing" kind of nervous.
>>
No. 954926 ID: 3ce8ff

well unfortunately you have already talked to me and that was all the provocation they required for retribution
>>
No. 954927 ID: 86eb65

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news but it might be to late for a warning. You might have chosen the worst guy to become friends with Nawm. So here is your warning. I might be getting transferred really quick like to the warfront. I need to leave some messages before I go and I can't do that here."

"Certain mailworkers might already have a nasty package waiting for you if I do not play along actually."
>>
No. 954928 ID: 10c408

>>954921
If there's no one else in the room, you may as well be frank with her.

"Okay. Then if you want to be extra safe you'll have to kill me right now and disappear from existence, because just by talking to you right now I've doomed you."
>>
No. 954929 ID: b1b4f3

>>954921
Tell her she can just say you passed out from drinking and she carried you to bed, like usual. Tomorrow you're late to guard duty because of the hangover, obviously. It's a good cover story.
As for enemies... well, how about this: you pretend to pass out, she carries you to bed, then you sneak out. She has plausible deniability in that case. Also yeah you may as well warn her she might get in some trouble if what you're about to do goes south, but you won't tell her any more than that.
>>
No. 954930 ID: afdebc

>>954921
I'm warning you, then. You think I wouldn't be in this state, and in need of a chance to duck out for a day, if something wasn't wrong? Yeah, you help me, there's the chance that gets back to who's making trouble for me.

>"What am I supposed to tell them?"
Tell em... I'm laid up because I'm a pussy who can't take a hit to the balls?
>>
No. 954931 ID: bb78f2

>>954921
To answer your question fully Nawm, you're going to need details. If you don't want details, then I'll give you the simplest answer I can give you. Covering for me won't be what puts you in the cross hairs. I'm afraid it's already too late to change that.
>>
No. 954938 ID: 7e4313

Hm, is fog back in season? Because if yes, that would enable contacting Cheese via the crows.
>>
No. 954939 ID: 10c408

Also easy cover story for Nawn to use. She can just tell the guard captain you got sloshed at the end of your shift again. Only even moreso this time and she can't for the life of her figure out why.
>>
No. 954946 ID: 1ed92d

>>954921
Nawm might also be on that noble asshole's payroll, but hey, they do deserve a warning.

Tell them that some asshole told you to SUCCESSFULLY try and murder Fen, and that if you don't do ACTUALLY DO IT, he'll kill everyone you've ever spoken to.

Nod at her in regards to this.

Then say you're fucking off to go meet with a spook so you can become a spook as well and kill that asshole noble. And also Krix, maybe.

If she stabs you, then you weren't getting out of this alive anyway, whereas if she doesn't, at least she got warning before a million assassins came out of the woodwork.



....Also why would your presence in Erja Nokol NOT immediately trigger Fen to raise his guard as high as it can go? You're a random guard, why in heaven's name would you be in Erja Nokol?!
>>
No. 954953 ID: 10c408

>>954946
Because a certain set of arrogant vengeful assholes just don't care enough to wait for a better opportunity.
>>
No. 954956 ID: f133dc

Not an answer to the question, but Moss should recognize the only result he can live with is killing lord Sayanos.
>>
No. 954958 ID: dbd72b

"There's a decent chance you're already implicated, because we hang out and they've threatened to kill all my friends. I'm gonna talk with someone who knows some shady shit to deal with it, but it's a long shot. Now, do you want details? It probably won't help."
Don't give her more than she wants, but let her know it's bad. And if she has a conceivable way to lie low, to maybe get it ready. But this conspiracy is big enough to fuck with mail, and is fucking with (Moss's) mail, so good luck with that.
>>
No. 954963 ID: ce39da

"You're already on the chopping block if I can't contact 'that person' to put a stop to this. It's one of those 'everyone you even remotely like' kinds of threats."

If she's still on the fence: "... And I'll share my lunch with you for a month for nothing in return, assuming they put me back here afterward."
>>
No. 954967 ID: 1d7c77

Cheese can probably provide you some dash of hard booze you can splash on yourself a little to help sell the "went out to get really smashed and sleep face down in a gutter" story, if that's what you want to go with.
>>
No. 954972 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158041631265.png - (25.70KB , 800x800 , 1329.png )
954972

"... you're already talking to me."
>"Yeah?"
"I've been threatened with anyone I've ever spoken to being killed."
>"Must be a strain on their resources, finding out every correspondence."
"Do you take nothing seriously?"
>"You're not the first person to get snagged up in weird politics, Moss, but unless it was a message from Lord Krix or a mithril noble who came down, they'll have trouble touching me. Even if Lord Krix doesn't directly see us, we're palace workers. People don't fuck with us that easy, not without consequences. I have faith things would've been different if we found you in a dead position instead of a fetal position. You got family out of the palace?"
"And friends."
>"They'll have a tougher time, but you don't need to worry about me. Most of us don't have people outside the palace we care about, because they end up in dumb shit like Alpuna. And now you. Stop caring about people outside, and you'll find you're safe as hell as long as you mind the prisoner hands."
"No."
>"Then I'll go ahead and tell them you couldn't handle the nut pain, and sloshed yourself way too hard last night."
"Thanks, Nawm."

She carries me out anyway, just in case there are spies looking at my movements.

"You can drop me here."
>"Oh, wow, you actually didn't fall asleep. That's good because I was about to drop you anyway. Stop eating so much, chicken fatty."
"I'm all muscle, Nawm."
>"Then next time someone kicks you in the balls, just remember to flex their foot right back off your crotch, chicken muscle."
>>
No. 954973 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158041632141.png - (37.52KB , 1200x800 , 1330.png )
954973

I say farewell and get some of my belongings.

There are a handful of tunnels under the palace that nobles from Pocktown should have no idea exist, even if Pocktown is part of Krix's territory now. Normally they creep me the hell out and I think some ancient prisoner is going to leap out and attack me. Right now, I'd welcome it.
>>
No. 954974 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158041641670.png - (59.24KB , 1200x800 , 1331.png )
954974

It doesn't happen, so I take an exit to a small farm building where its inhabitant wisely keeps his eyes pointed elsewhere while I run out.

It feels like I run for several hours, and I have to stop at every fork to relight my torch to read the signs and make sure I'm going in the direction. The wind rustles the crops, and it's hard to tell if bandits are going to poke their head out. I'm not afraid of local bandits, as they're only dangerous if they get the drop on me. So I keep my wits and sword about me so that it doesn't happen.
>>
No. 954975 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158041656078.png - (63.43KB , 1200x800 , 1332.png )
954975

I keep running until I'm pretty sure the Fence is close. I never approach that town if I can help it, so me willingly run at it like this is a good sign of the times.

But before I reach it, I hear someone move through the crops out in the bend in front of me. I keep my sword out, since it looks like I'm bandit hunting after all.

I turn the bend and find Cheese staring back at me. She looks at me like I might not exist, but I must look the same back at her, because I was not expecting her out here.

>"Wow. You actually were out here."
"You sound like you knew."
>"I did."

She points up.

>"It's a nice night for flying, if you get me, and you're on the hot list of people who I get told about if they make any weird movements. I thought I'd come out to meet you, since, uh... once you were in the Fence, how were you gonna find me?"

I didn't even think about that.

>"So what're you doing out here?"
"I was trying to find you."
>"I could take a guess why, but maybe it's better if you just told me."
>>
No. 954977 ID: 86eb65

"I got mail delivered from a stone noble today. He ordered me to go sneak up to Fen and kill him or everyone I knew would get killed. So here I am. I hope you can figure out a plan because I would rather not get stuck with Fen fighting undead while dreaming about the fate of my soon to be dead ex wife."
>>
No. 954978 ID: 437fa8

Paranoia check first. Go poke that giant butt and make sure its Cheese first.

Then tell her your story quietly and quickly. We have a little extra time to spare with her coming out here to meet us. But assume you have unfriendly folks in the crops and need to keep a secret.

No need to hide anything but keep terms vague on the off hand chance other people have birds on the payroll.
>>
No. 954979 ID: 10c408

put your light out, it's making you visible like a star in the middle of the road.

Ask her something only cheese would know, then just stick to the relevant facts.

After that inquire about how safe you are in the middle of the road like this.
>>
No. 954980 ID: 91ee5f

>>954975
“A Stone Noble calling himself Lord Sayanos of Pocktown, personally delivered a message to me saying he wants me to go kill Fen because I’m supposed to be a friendly face that can get him to let his guard down.”

“I tried telling Sayanos it wouldn’t work but he wouldn’t take no for an answer. When I finally said yes, he fucking shoved his knee into my nuts and threatened to kill anyone I’ve ever spoken to!”

“So, yeah, is there anything you can do to help?”
>>
No. 954981 ID: afdebc

>>954975
Be careful- you threatened Cheese the last time you were together, and she knew you were coming. She may not be as alone as she appears to be, or may have something prepared in case you were coming for her, rather than coming to her for help.

Well, hopefully. Because if she doesn't have her shit together after the mess she was last time, she's not really gonna be much help, here. Moss did not think kindly of Cheese by the end of thread 3.

Tell Cheese you got noble problems, and she's the only one anywhere near who might be able to do something about it. Lord Sayonos wants to ship you off to Erja Nokol, where you're going to fail at killing Fen either way, at which point you'll be no good helping screw over Krix, and no matter what happens there, Sayonos is gonna end up killing people you care about.
>>
No. 954983 ID: c2f1f6

Lord Sayanos of Pocktown, or a noble claiming to be him, ordered me to kill Fen. He seems to think Fen trusts me enough to get close to him and wouldn't be convinced otherwise. He's threatened to kill anyone I've talked to if I don't go through with it, naming my ex-wife and Gahn in particular, likely because he's been going through my mail and those people sent me letters. I need my friends protected and Sayanos dealt with, else I'll be a useless asset or a dead one.

Sayanos says he doesn't like the message that Fen being allowed to live sends, implied he has co-conspirators and assets including People, spies and money. I dunno how much of that is true, he's got that detachment from reality entitled people sometimes have.
>>
No. 954985 ID: a9af05

>>954975
Honestly, the best thing you can hope for is that Cheese can help you, you can go back to your job, and you don't have to go to Erja Nokol.
>>
No. 954987 ID: b1b4f3

>>954975
Tell her some stone noble is trying to get you sent to Fen as an assassin. He's threatening your friends and family to force you to do it. Also he's been opening your mail. You need her help to either get rid of him or otherwise keep him from forcing you to do it, which would probably involve moving your friends and family to a safer location like for instance the palace, and making sure you can't get moved out of your job there.
>>
No. 954988 ID: bb78f2

>>954975
You know, good thing you went to Cheese after all, if you didn't, she would've warned Fen and it would be over the minute you stepped foot into his eyesight, then your loved ones would have practically been killed by Cheese's own hands without her knowing the extent of what she did.

We know you and us don't like each other, but we both like Fen (maybe Cheese more than us, to be frank, he's been a knight to her and he's really only been an affable citizen to us), but thanks to him, stone nobles of Pocktown have cornered me into assassinating him. Could... could you come up with a plan so a few extra innocent people don't have to die? I would like to live, but like, it's not necessary if you dislike me that much or if it's too hard to spare both me and my friends and family.

It would be really satisfying if this plan involved killing that stone noble in the balls at one point.

Be really great.
>>
No. 954989 ID: 015bf2

>>954983
Pretty much this.
>>
No. 954990 ID: 75ea94

It's too convenient that she just popped out of nowhere, It could be her but most likely isn't.
Before you tell her anything you got to make sure it's actually her. Then communicate it in written notes, making sure to burn them with your torch after she reads them.
>>
No. 954991 ID: 1d7c77

"Ok, first, you're sure we're alone? Ok. I know you don't have much reason to like me, so let me start by saying we might be able to catch a stone noble out in tampering with the mail, and he's one who's against Fen. Ok? Right, now-" And then explain everything to her.

Turning it around on him with blackmail sounds like a good first plan. Second best plan would be Apanya finding out about it and caring enough to deal with him. That's unlikely so third plan is to maybe somehow fake Apanya telling him to knock it off. Fourth plan is you fake your own death and hopefully he doesn't care enough to follow through on the threat. Fifth plan is helping Fen fake his death so he can surprise Krix better later.

Sixth plan is uuuh you actually dying, maybe, don't mention that one to Cheese but she might think of it herself.
>>
No. 954992 ID: 1d7c77

Oh and for your confirmations that it's actually Cheese ask her something only the two of you would know like what happened to your tent the second to last time you spoke.
>>
No. 954993 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158042784711.png - (84.19KB , 800x800 , 1333.png )
954993

"How safe are we in the middle of the road?"
>"Very safe, trust me. I got someone in the crops. I'd introduce you, but you'd probably gawk and I don't wanna have him deal with gawks, sorry. We're safe with him around, just don't shout your story and you'll be fine. Er, catch your breath if you need first."

I do need to, I can barely see right. In fact I need to make sure it's Cheese.

"It's odd that you came out to see me."
>"Okay let me speak clearer. I got word you were coming, and I realized you didn't have a way to find me when you were in town. So I came to find you, because I don't like to be seen in town."
"Can you tell me something only Cheese would know?"
>"We parted ways with you telling me how much you hate my guts! Oh my gods Moss this isn't the mausoleum, they can't make fake Cheeses."
"..."
>"Sorry, sorry. Er um also I don't feel bad about you saying how much you hated me. I don't like me either! But I like you! Er not like - I mean you're decent - look I didn't mean to make the conversation bad, but our last conversation made me even more surprised you came here to see me now. It must be bad."
"You're the only one who can help this. A noble delivered my mail today, telling me to go kill Fen, because I'm a friendly face and apparently that's good enough."
>"Yeahhh... thought so."
"You knew?"
>"Well not knew, but... did you meet a 'Gahn', tonight? Large field kobold, looks like he's from Poluputus, kind of fuschia colored?"
"No?"
>"Wait really? He was... was in the fence, last morning, talking in a place he shouldn't have been talking. He also got the ol 'do what I say or we kill everyone you know' tactic, but for him, he was going to go to you and make sure you actually went to Erja Nokol without running off. He didn't say way too much past that or who put him up to it, but he said he was going to meet up with you that evening, which would've been several hours ago."
"I got a letter from him, saying he would 'nab me when he's in Graskin next'."
>"... Graskin? Why Graskin?"
"Because that's... er, wait."

Tunna. I work in Tunna, Graskin is where the mithril palace is, and where the gold of that region works, but not Krix.

>"Moss is that alcohol I smell are you drunk?! You work in Tunna!"
"Not drunk enough! I may have wrote to Gahn while drunk, saying I worked in the Graskin palace."
>"Well that's a mistake turned relief! Geez, okay, well he looked like he was actually going to do it. Follow orders, I mean."
"... really."
>"Yeah. I'm sorry, but the guy's got a full on family. He sounded like you wouldn't like it, but that Fen was worth everyone else the two of you were friends with."
>>
No. 954994 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158042786686.png - (80.80KB , 800x800 , 1334.png )
954994

I sit down and put the light out.

"... Can you prove he said all of this?"
>"No, but if you go back to Tunna, Gahn should eventually show up once he figures out you're actually there. Unless he's the fastest giver-upper in the empire."

I may not like Cheese much, but that isn't impossible. Gahn could've legitimately tried to convince me to try killing Fen. If Sayanos tried the same tactic, then Gahn would have to succeed or else see all his loved ones die. If I refused him...

It's fortunate that I missed him.

>"So uh, did the mailman say he was with Lord Krix?"
"No. The mailman was the noble, as it turns out."
>"Wha?"
"It was a stone noble himself, delivering my mail."
>"Lord Krix was sending out nobles to do messenger work now?"
"Is he? As far as I can tell, 'Lord' Krix has nothing to do with this."
>"Really. Then... whooo sent the message?"
"Sir Sayanos."
>"... Sir who? Hold on, I think I'm remembering. Sayanyyyyy Pocktown. Pocktown?!"
"Yes, Sir Sayanos of Pocktown."
>"Him?! Oh. Oh my god. No no no no."
>>
No. 954995 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158042799126.png - (110.61KB , 800x800 , 1335.png )
954995

Cheese stares at me, then looks away and starts making a noise. Giggling? She's giggling?

"Is something funny?"
>"Sorry, sorry. That's just... that's too good! No way, that's just too good! He's a stupid idiot who's power tripping. I can't believe he's still alive! He's harmless, Moss!"
"He kicked me in the groin."

She breathes in.

>"I'm sorry, sorry! I mean, for a stone noble, he's... destitute. He can order people around, but it's borrowed resources! This is so much better than if it was Lord Krix. You see... you remember Lord Rasyan of Pocktown? Sir Sayanos is his nephew or half brother or something I don't care, no one cares anymore. But Sir Sayanos is just holding onto the title of Pocktown mayor while Lord Krix's council figures out who they actually want to have the title. If you want my guess, Sir Sayanos is being given a chance to prove himself to keep the title."

Cheese looks at me again.

>"He kicked you, as in he showed up in person? That means that either his messenger network is spread so thin that he had to be his own messenger, or he couldn't get even get approval to send his messengers into your work area! He's so weak! I can intentionally go noble poaching for once! Wait no, we can do something. Moss, want to come poach with me?"
"What? Poach?"
>"A soft way of saying cold blooded murder. Let's get breakfast, Moss! There's a good place in the fence you can show your face in without being seen with me, if you catch my drift."
>>
No. 954996 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158042805792.png - (57.49KB , 800x800 , 1336.png )
954996

I stare at Cheese for a moment. Maybe it's the leftover booze in my gut, or the run I just did, but I'm not sure I'm hearing her right.

"My job is expecting me."
>"Your job? Moss, Lord Krix just had some upstart noble kick one of his palace guards! You - I hate to say this, but you could've killed him. It would've been a stink, and you had no idea you could've done it, so you played it smart, but... you could've killed him!"
"When my coworker brought it up with my captain, she was told to forget about it. That doesn't tell me that this noble was out of his league. He's still a noble."
>"I've been watching people around you too, Moss. Your captain is a tool. He just does what he's told by anyone with rank. The warden would've given you a slap on the wrist, your captain would sweat a bit. It would've been bad if Lord Krix got news of it, because then he would've given you a pat on the back! Except that we do want that, if you can stomach the endorsement from Lord Krix himself."

A pat on the back by him does sound bad, but apparently I'm just doing better in life when I do dumb shit like confuse which town I work in and think about killing a noble. I'm starting to think I missed out by not killing Lord Rasyan with Fen. Except...

"You're telling me Lord Krix would approve of me killing a noble that's trying to kill Fen?"

Cheese gives me a look and a slow nod.

>"I"m in a way better position then I was when I was at Lady Apanya's hearing. I've learned a lot about a lot of people. And you know who hates nobles as much as us? Lord Krix. He openly despises every noble he has to work with. He doesn't even want to be a noble, he just wants to go to war. Still trying to figure out why he doesn't throw his title in the trash, but anyone who knows him and wants to get on his good side refers to him as Warlord Krix, not Lord Krix."

There's a chirp in the crops. I don't know what it is, but it's no crow I've ever heard, so it must be that person Cheese talked about.

>"Well, we definitely gotta wait for incoming travellers to pass by before we can talk more freely, that's for sure. Breakfast? I recommend it. I know what I'm saying is weird, but I could use your help, too."
"You sound like you have a lot of help already."
>"Yes but almost all of that help is in the form of crows, mutants, and children."
>>
No. 954998 ID: b1b4f3

>>954996
Wow. Okay that's a lot of good news. Go get some breakfast with Cheese so you can get to tracking down this fuckhead and wreck his face.
One pressing question is, just how far does your status as palace guard get you? You're at least on par with a stone noble, what about the next rank up? What is that anyway, iron?
>>
No. 955000 ID: 86eb65

"Fuck it you know how this stuff works best. Let's get food and you can tell me all about how I get to kill a noble and impress a warlord."
>>
No. 955001 ID: 75ea94

welp, that's some good news I guess. Time to find a place to safely rest your head before you enjoy a hardy breakfast, and cold-blooded killing of a noble.
>>
No. 955002 ID: b0c69b

>>954996
Ironically, getting on Krix's good side allows you to do exactly what Sayanos proposes; getting close to someone with intention of stabbing that person in the back. So your options seem to be:

Get sent to a literal warzone full of mutants and zombies to murder a friend and ally

Or

Work with an experienced noble-killer to dispose of someone threatening your friends and (ex)family in way that furthers your own goals, provided you're willing to be thanked by your nemesis.

Just make sure you have a good sentence ready for when you stab that ball-kicking bastard off his high horse.
>>
No. 955003 ID: a9af05

>>954996
Go get breakfast with Cheese and work out a plan with her for you to get revenge against the asshole that kicked you in the nuts!

>>954998
>One pressing question is, just how far does your status as palace guard get you? You're at least on par with a stone noble, what about the next rank up? What is that anyway, iron?
Yeah, shouldn't someone have told Moss all of this? We'd better ask now so that Moss will know in the future.
>>
No. 955004 ID: 509e5e

Yeah, let's totally do a murder. 100% on board.
>>
No. 955006 ID: ce39da

If Cheese is that sure about it: "Yeah, sure."

Question for later: "Okay, so I missed the golden opportunity then. Apparently. Can we really get him outside home-turf when the 'crime scene' is cold, without evidence, and just... get away with it?"

Also... huh. I guess Krix wasn't quite as two-faced as we thought.
>>
No. 955008 ID: afdebc

>I got someone in the crops.
Hmm. Cheese has some way not to trigger the giant murder dogs, that's useful.

>but you could've killed him
Considered it, honestly. But I had no idea how good he was, and if I'd succeeded, didn't have good options to run.

>breakfast / noble hunt
What kind of timeframe are we talking? I got someone to cover for me, and i don't really want to hang them out to dry by not coming for too long. Saved a lot of time not having to make it all the way to fence at least...

>>"Yes but almost all of that help is in the form of crows, mutants, and children."
Am I gonna have to give you a hard time about using child soldiers?
>>
No. 955009 ID: 10c408

"Cheese, if you haven't pieced it together yet. I am a decent person and downright AWFUL at all this skulduggery that keeps happening around me."
>>
No. 955011 ID: c2f1f6

Yeah, you could stand to settle your stomach. And not because of the alchohol. And yeah, you're down for some poaching. You owe someone a swift kick in the balls at least.
>>
No. 955016 ID: bb78f2

>>954996
Oh thank GOD, yes, lets kill a noble.
You know, since we cowarded down yesterday, I regretted not killing him all day today. Like, it would have been the RIGHT answer, I felt it in my bones.

We should just adopt a stupid noble killing policy at this point.
>>
No. 955023 ID: 10c408

>>955016
I don't think you fully grasp how little opportunity there is to execute the nobility and get off scot free.
>>
No. 955030 ID: a9af05

>>955003
Don't forget to tell blurt out, "Cheese, you have no idea how happy hearing all of that has made me! I'm so happy, I could just kiss you!"

Moss is slightly buzzed, so I might as well try and see if his tongue will slip and have him say this!
>>
No. 955031 ID: e2f5cc

>>955030
Moss would have to be drunk enough to pass out for him to say that, though maybe he's just drunk/tired/tired of this shit enough to intentionally say this to fuck with Cheese.
>>
No. 955042 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158043927298.png - (140.81KB , 800x800 , 1337.png )
955042

This still seems a little too good that Krix would actually like me doing that.

"That's a lot of good news, Cheese. I'm almost happy I came to you to hear that."
>"Haha, well, out of all the people who hate me, there's no one else I'd rather work with than you!"

We walk back, and just as Cheese mentioned, a group of travellers crosses us by. They just seem to be farmers out delivering a bundle of tools to someplace that will want them before they wake up. Once they pass, I ask Cheese another question.

"How far exactly does my status as palace guard get me? Because kill a noble, no matter how ill respected he is, was never something I thought was excusable."
>"Hmmm... I'm trying to think of a good way to put it but I can't. Imagine you were Krix's doorway. And doorways could talk. Well, you're property of Krix, so you can't just go barking orders at people and expect anyone to follow the orders of Krix's door, but this is like if Sayanos snuck behind Krix's back and kicked his door in the - kicked it down. If that door then falls over on Sayanos and kills him, no one's going to think that door is a danger to nobles that has to be trashed, it's a doorway that served up justice! It'll be Krix's favorite doorway. Full of fond memories of that time Sayanos got himself killed on it. Here, we're going to move through crops for a second, grab this."

She pulls a necklace out of her robe for me to hang onto. This is what can be used to avoid the dogs.

I hear growls.

>"Don't worry, Moss. They're growling at my buddy, not us. Somewhere around... here we go."

We get to a small door that Cheese unlocks. I look back as she closes it, but I never see this 'buddy' of Cheese's.
>>
No. 955044 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158043932247.png - (119.92KB , 1200x800 , 1338.png )
955044

There's many stairwells out of the tunnel, and Cheese has me wait as she enters one. A few minutes later, she comes out with a bag, then leads me to another. We brush ourselves off and head up, straight into a private booth that smells like a restaurant. That and rotting wood, which... I haven't smelled in what feels like years. I didn't think I'd miss it, but I do.

A waiter comes and we order as though we were plain customers.

>"It's on the house. Order whatever you want, Moss."
"Your treat?"
>"Haha that'd be a nice gesture of me but no, this is out of Sir Gauche's pocket. The local stone noble, but a much better one trust me."
>>
No. 955045 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158043938812.png - (188.52KB , 1200x800 , 1339.png )
955045

I order, and we wait.

"We can talk here?"
>"Eh, not too loudly. But I'm really hungry." She pulls out a book from the bag she got on the way here.

>"Hmmmm... Turtle's Hideaway... Western... Pocktown... Stone... That's him! Seal approved the 29th of spring, right after the Lady Apanya hearings."
"What's today?"
>"84 - wait 85th now. Of Spring, of course."
"Right. How are we going to go about... you know? We can't just burst down his door and go through. Right?"
>"Right. I mean I could arrange to try that if you wanted to but I don't think you do, which is why instead we're gonna take advantage of how he's incredibly manipulatable. Manipulable? Whatever, we can get him out of his home turf. We can give you a rematch - wait a second. How good are you at fighting?"
"... I was confident when I had to guard against local bandits and farmers, but lately I've felt out of my league."
>"Eh, we can sort out how exactly we do the deed later and if you even wanna personally do it, but that doesn't change how we start. Our first order of business, hitting his agents!"
"Why?"
>"Because once he figures out you're not playing along with him, he's going to start attacking your friends, and he's probably gonna find out before we can get him where we want him. We need to give your significant others some guardians. This guy probably won't be subtle and try to go for who you care for most, first. It's apparently not going to be Gahn, so... who?"
"My ex-wife, I think."
>"Any other friends?"
"Nawm, a fellow guard. There's a few more from the breaktown, but I don't care much about them. Come to think of it, I haven't made a whole lot of friends lately."
>"Your guard buddy should be fine, but I'll look into that. It sounds like your ex-wife is gonna be attacked."

I wince at the thought.

>"Don't worry, this guy won't just do something simple like kill her. He'll make sure you know he means business, so it's probably going to be a kidnapping, first. Okay, give me her address." I hand her the envelope, which contains the information. "Nice. I'll send an agent to intercept and identify any would-be kidnappers once I can, and there's a good chance we can use that agent to our own ends. There's a lot of fog in Graskin, so I'll send a crow over right away to at least get some immediate eyes on the target. Questions? Ideas?"
>>
No. 955048 ID: bb78f2

>>955045
There's a part of me thinking she may have set this up, she's a little too prepared.
Don't blurt that out loud, just mentally prepare the possibility on your mind. It's a little too late for backsies and if this isn't a set up your ex wife is definitely in danger, so ehh, I'll give it a 50-50 split she's manipulated us into a plot to kill a stone noble in her way.

Honestly, maybe we should get Gawm on the way too? He's already in Graskin right about now, so tough to say how he might get himself involved, one way or the other. He might just get a new mission to kill me and/or you if a message can get to him in time.

What relatives does Sayanos have that may retaliate? Who's going to inherit Pocktown after him?

Can I get a ride back to my post?

Frankly, I almost want to play the part like I'm going along with the original plan a bit, do a double play, if that's possible. Sayanos may be more vulnerable and easier for you to get then. You can get me and Gawm arrested preemptively, upon which we can let our plan go full in force. Not to mention we'll be able to partially use his own assets he's sending us against him.
>>
No. 955049 ID: 91ee5f

>>955044
>this is out of Sir Gauche's pocket. The local stone noble, but a much better one trust me.
“How did you managed to get Sir Gauche to agree to pay for our food? Is that the only benefit he’s is giving you? Why do you think he’s a better Stone Noble?”

>>955045
>Questions?
“If we pull this off, it means I don’t have to go to Erja Nokol, right?”

Also, you should consider apologizing for what you said to her during your last interaction. After all, she’s helping you despite what you said. Perhaps you could change your opinion of her from “hating her guts” to “she’s an ok person”?
>>
No. 955051 ID: b1b4f3

>>955048
She's Cheese, she's either done this before or has thought deeply about doing it before and came up with plans on how to do it.

>>955045
Hmm, ask if she can find out exactly how tough this guy is and how good his gear is, then get a sparring buddy to freshen up on and give Cheese an idea of how tough YOU are. Then you can have a good idea of your chances in a 1v1 fight.

>>955049
>apologize to Cheese
Nah. She's kinda scummy, even if she's mostly resorted to scummy tactics in the interest of survival.
>>
No. 955052 ID: 1d7c77

You know, it kind of sounds like, if it weren't for the dragoncloth, Krix would actually like Fen. Why does he want the dragoncloth, anyway, if he's not interested in being a noble? It's nice to touch and all, but if he's not into being a noble it seems like he wouldn't be into the old "sacred artifact of the emperor" thing, either. That's weird. Are you really sure about all this, Cheese? Moss is betting his life and a couple of others, here.

Also, are you sure you want this guy dead? If he's that weak, it might be possible to pressure him instead. Blackmail, et cetera. Probably not, or it would involve something really distasteful like blackmailing him and then killing him when he's outlived his usefulness, which I'm pretty sure isn't something you're going to want to associate yourself with, even if you hate the guy.

Also, how you going to play Gahn into this? Do you know the guy after him is the same guy? Are we sure of who the higher-up behind Sayanos is and what their reaction will be?
>>
No. 955053 ID: 10c408

Do not forget to mention the few details of the so-called 'plan' to kill Fen that Sayanos bothered to share. It'd be an excellent bonus if Sayanos's contact is also eliminated/arrested upon making contact with you.

Ask her if she thinks any of Fen's superior officers, particularly the grand knight, have the legal clout necessary to dismantle a conspiracy plot to kill one of their subordinates and arrest/execute all involved parties.
>>
No. 955054 ID: 10c408

>>955052
If I've got Krix pegged right, his only interest in the dragoncloth is the gargantuan pricetag that comes with it. Armies aren't free, after all.
>>
No. 955055 ID: ddb4c1

This will help Fen as well? You son of a bitch, count me in. You are paying the booz right?
>>
No. 955056 ID: c2f1f6

I might regret asking this, but since he is so easily manipulated, is there any value or possibility in keeping him alive so you can hold his strings instead? Or is he too stupid to be useful?
>>
No. 955058 ID: 3ce8ff

>>955048
naw Cheese is cool, I would be very sad if Cheese screwed over one of fen's friends
>>
No. 955061 ID: 91ee5f

>>955051
Does Moss have to fight him? Cheese did say she could just arrange for Sayanos to be killed. Which might be for the best, since even Moss said he felt he was out of his league.

>even if she's mostly resorted to scummy tactics in the interest of Fen’s survival.
Fixed that for you.
>>
No. 955063 ID: b1b4f3

If Moss doesn't get to kill this guy personally, then the door metaphor breaks and instead it's Cheese doing the killing at Moss's behest. I doubt Krix will appreciate that.
Moss should do as much of this on his own as he can.
>>
No. 955066 ID: 3674e7

Could you make or edit a fake letter from fen that complicates his plans bring it up to him so he has to personally come talk to you. For example saying that he has been moved to the front lines or a secure location and won’t be able to leave or communicate with others for a certain amount of time
>>
No. 955068 ID: 10c408

>>955056
From the looks of things, Sayano has only been a stone noble for 60 days now. He got the position after the big shake up involving Fen's dragoncloth and yet in absolutely no time whatsoever he has already assumed he can go around kicking the non-nobles in the balls and ordering them on suicide missions after greasing a couple of palms.

The best use we can make of him when all is said and done is fertilizer.
>>
No. 955072 ID: 7db7d2

Tell Cheese she should also send someone to help Gahn's family.
>>
No. 955073 ID: 91ee5f

>>955063
Alright, if you say so.

But I prefer doing it Cheese’s way: cold blooded murder. Don’t bother setting up a 1v1 fight, let’s just kill the asshole and be done with it.
>>
No. 955078 ID: dbd72b

Think about your bout with the noble. Did he catch you off guard? Was he too fast for you? Did you see it in time to stop it, but had to fall back on submission?

It's not the best way to gauge, but anything obvious could stand out.

If you can take him, it'd be best to do it yourself. Krix might get more antsy if his guards are using cat's paws, and he seems the type to respect personal power more anyway.

If the chances aren't good, you can't afford to die doing this. Either get someone else to do it, or get yourself a distinct advantage. Poison, traps, reinforcements, be better armed.

Welcome to the big leagues. There are no rules, and everyone plays for keeps.
>>
No. 955102 ID: 721c60

>>955078
Speaking of, is Sayanos really a "Sir" (as in, a knight) or did Moss just assume? He introduced himself as Lord Sayanos and doesn't seem to have mentioned knighthood in the conversation.
>>
No. 955108 ID: 10c408

>>955078
I don't believe you fully understand the current situation. At the initial meeting, Moss could have killed sayanos right then and there but since he was unaware of this, Sayanos got away with his life.

NOW that he's away from Krix's area, Moss lacks the legal protection afforded to him by his position to kill an affronting noble and get away with it.

So it's time for the cloak and dagger approach.
>>
No. 955109 ID: 721c60

>>955108
Krix's area isn't limited to his city. And since Rasyan's death, it even includes Pocktown itself.
>>
No. 955111 ID: 10c408

>>955109
...Well, I'm still voting for the cloak and dagger approach. Even if Moss could walk right into pocktown and kick Sayanos in the junk before stabbing him, there'd have to be prep work involved. like talking to Krix and ensuring that Sayanos's guards are out of the picture.

And even if this results in his death we'd still have to eliminate the assassins under his employee.
>>
No. 955112 ID: 721c60

I was under the impression the option proposed by Cheese was "use cloak&dagger to lure him in a vulnerable position, then Moss can confront him 1-on-1 and stab him in the groin and face, and Sayonara lord Sayanos."
>>
No. 955113 ID: 10c408

>>955112
As Cheese herself put it
"Eh, we can sort out how exactly we do the deed later and if you even wanna personally do it, but that doesn't change how we start. Our first order of business, hitting his agents!"
>>
No. 955117 ID: 721c60

>>955113
We are in agreement on that.
>>
No. 955261 ID: 15a025

>>955048
>Who's going to inherit Pocktown after him?
Probably a good question to ask. What do you think the aftermath of all this is going to be like Cheese?
>>
No. 955262 ID: a9af05

>>955073
>Cheese's method
>No 1v1
I agree. If Moss feels like he's out of his league here, then a 1 on 1 fight might not work out in our favor.
>>
No. 955278 ID: 86eb65

Well a few.

1. Regardless of how this works out I need to get my fighting form back. Help with trainers and workouts would be nice.

2. If I do kill this idiot and Krix suddenly likes me more how can we use that to help our goals?

3. Are we a thing now? Like us and Fen? If he becomes a big shot you are his spymaster and I am his guard captain? Or are we just some friends trying to avoid getting stepped on?

4. Should I try to make more friends in the palace guards? How much leeway do I get?

5. Tell her about the prisoners breakout/bribery/stuff from earlier if she somehow missed it. Find out if you did good or if she has advice for if it happens again.

6. How can you protect your ex long term? A guy laying around watching for thugs all day is not 100%. We might be estranged but I want to protect her.
>>
No. 955297 ID: 015bf2

>>955045
>Don't care about them.
Wait, you don't care about Gahn? Sounded like he was a decent enough fellow if you spent evenings worth of talking shit together.

>Questions
You're not very plotty by nature. How do you best 'fall' on this guy, to elaborate on the door metaphor from earlier?

Also, if you fall on him directly, won't that just make Krix aware of what this guy tried to use you for? If you've avoided Krix's attention on your continued relations with Fen thus far, you may want to keep that up. Then again, if some idiot like Sayanos can figure it out, perhaps it's just out there in the open anyway?
>>
No. 955304 ID: 10c408

>>955297
While Sayanos is the occam's razor choice for whoever has been rifling through Moss's correspondence with Fen, it might not actually be him doing it.
>>
No. 955328 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158075090860.png - (107.96KB , 800x800 , 1340.png )
955328

We get our food.

>"Er, just to be clear, do you care about Gahn? You said you didn't care about others from the breaktown, so - "
"Other than Gahn. I wasn't clear, I thought my care for him as a friend went without saying."
>"Eheh no problem."
"Should I make more friends? In the guard station, I mean."
>"If you don't want to, maybe you shouldn't force yourself. But for like, overall benefit of one's goals? Absolutely."
"Maybe I'll try, then. How'd you manage to get Sir Gauche to pay for this food?"
>"I'm his spymaster, and this is just part of the pay."
"And he's a better stone noble?"
>"I don't think you heard much about what happened here, right? Maybe I'll weave you the tale later, but right now I'll just say that Fen worked closely with him and parted on good terms. Or at least not bad ones."
"Hm." I eat for awhile before continuing. "You seem to be well prepared to deal with the problem I came to you for."
>"Yeah? Moss this guy we're dealing with, he's like... a textbook example of a single-day noble. New noble, gets power right up to his head, suddenly is dumb and think he owns the world, called 'single day nobles' because they die real fast. And I have a long list in my head about ways that has, and can, happen, so it's not like I'm well prepared for your specific target, I'm just well experienced for that kind of target in general."
"Ah. What if I fake accepted his task? That might draw him out, right?"
>"Ohhh. Yeah, if you did accept, that might work out well. Er, if he has reason to show up in person any more, but it sounds like if you just have a disrespectful tone to your acceptance, that'll be enough maybe."
>>
No. 955330 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158075098274.png - (157.43KB , 800x800 , 1341.png )
955330

The rest of the breakfast is silent, so I can think. If I were a manipulative string puller, maybe I'd want to have Sayanos live. But I'm not. He should be killed, or at least in prison.

Cheese spends the rest of breakfast writing letters. Afterwards, she leads me to some tunnels.

"For hating nobles, Lord Krix wanted that dragoncloth."
>"Well, yeah! It's not like a deed to nobility. It's a symbol of status and power, you don't have to be a noble to own one. Uh... well, it helps a lot, but remember Fen was denied it because there was doubt he was strong enough to justify owning it, not because he wasn't a noble."
"Right... say, how do we know Gahn was approached by the same person I was? What if it was someone else?"
>"Oh that's just one of several assumptions and best bets I'm making at this early stage, but believe me I'm sending out feelers to verify all the assumptions like that that I'm making, since I don't want to have badly timed surprises! Uh Moss questions are welcome but you sound kinda suspicious."
"I'm betting my life and all those I care about on your competency."
>"Oh haha good point no pressure right."
"Lots of pressure."
>"Right that's what I meant it was sarcasm!"
"What happens to Pocktown, anyway?"
>"Hm? Oh, remember this guy's just a figurehead, and there's plenty of other people to hold onto the title. Killing him won't change anything."

I might've been hard on Cheese at the end of Apanya's meetings, but she's way too happy to go murdering a noble and I don't feel bad for what I said. At most, I'll thank her for her help here.
>>
No. 955331 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158075100059.png - (104.59KB , 1200x800 , 1342.png )
955331

She guides me into a small, half-built room. There's boxes stacked in one corner, and a fully constructed map behind her desk with a lot of pin marks pushed into it.

There's a child, here. He looks away from me.

>"Three people left messages." he says. "Two of them want to see you."
>"Okay, here, take these, each one to a different crow." Cheese says, slipping her letters into an envelope for each, along with coins into them. She turns to me. "Haha can you believe they remodelled my place but still can't be bothered to give me actual walls? It's okay because it'll be easier to make bigger later if I need to. Anywaysss I'm sending our crow to watch your ex, as well as getting other information. You'll just have to wait here for a bit, you can nap over there if you want some sleep."
"Where do you normally sleep?"
>"There's a nice dirt spot I found nearby but it's mine sorry. This is a good place to hide in for you, very few people know about it! And I won't be meeting anyone in here today and if I do I'll warn you. You get an invite in here because you're Fen's friend! Which must still be true because you didn't work with Sir Sayanos at all. Then again maybe that's because he kicked you...?"
"And because Fen would kill me if I tried to kill him. I'm no assassin. But I still consider Fen a friend, in case that's in doubt."
>"Haha good, well... even aside from that, I still like you. So I'm okay with you being here."
"Who's that kid?"
>"A kid who's going to pretend you never came to see me. And I want to be fair to him, too, so I don't want to introduce him to you, sorry. Kid go tell the first person I'll be with them soon!"
"Speaking of my secret life..." I wait for the kid to leave. "I'm afraid just how open my friendly relationship with Fen is, if Sir Sayanos could figure it out."
>"Yeah, um... I think we'll be able to figure out that as we go along with what we're doing. Hey, what's your ex's name, anyway?"
"Val."

I sit on the box and wonder about myself fighting Sayanos. Of course I can win easily in my own head, but if in reality I can't handle some shitty stone noble, then so be it. I'll find a sparring partner later and try to see where I stand in general. I don't get enjoyment out of serious martial training, but I may just have to suck it up for awhile.

My head's all over the place with other thoughts, but I put them in the back of my head for later and take Cheese's offer to sleep.
>>
No. 955333 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158075109906.png - (93.01KB , 1200x800 , 1343.png )
955333

It doesn't feel like I get much before I hear Cheese whisper-shouting to a crow.

>"Whattaya mean you can't watch her or Sayanos?!"

I sit up, and I can't see clear yet but I see Cheese looking at a crow sitting on her desk. The crow makes some low chirping noises.

>The no watch list?!" More chirps. "A secret?!" She gasps a little and takes a deep breath, before noticing me. I'm wide awake now. "Um, hi, Moss, apparently Sayanos and your ex is on the no-watch list."
"A no watch list?"
>"People or places the crows won't watch."
"Does that mean he's in good with the crows?"
>"Crow? Is Sayanos part of the crow network?"

The crow just shakes its head now. Cheese freezes.

"So he's off limits, but isn't part of this crow network?"
>"That's right. Which means, um... someone else... or the crows decided on their own..."

She looks at the crow, which doesn't make a move or a peep.

>"I've never had this happen before. Not like this." She says.
>>
No. 955335 ID: 86eb65

Ask the Crow politely if it would explain why your wife of all people would be on a no watch list.

Also ask yourself if she has any friends or family that might be the cause. Or if she hooked up with some noble after you?

Because if the Crows are not watching them they have a good reason. Either they are being watched by someone else the crows do not want to deal with or the situation has become to dangerous for them to continue.
>>
No. 955336 ID: ce39da

"Even before that, it doesn't take a genius spymaster to suspect Sayanos could have just been a middle-man set up to this by someone else. Who is he generally in contact with, among other nobles? We might have to go after them, too - even just finding out who is and isn't on the 'no watch' list should be telling enough. Also, I doubt crows are your only resource for people-watching."
>>
No. 955337 ID: 83bf07

>>955333
I'm willing to bet this guy's being bankrolled by someone bigger.
>>
No. 955338 ID: 015bf2

>>955335
Unless Moss’ wife is in some other deep shit there shouldn’t be any reason other than someone wanting to prevent easy surveillance of Moss’ closest loved one. The no-list seems like something the crows have to protect themselves from retribution.

Someone with the power and influence has dropped crow intervention dead. It’s deeply suspicious that a Soldier’s ex-wife and a one-day noble are both on this list, too, so it seems likely to be in relation to Moss, and the reason Moss is targeted is, of course, Fen.

A Mithril, like Lady Apanya or Lord Shup could probably swing it, and both have reasons for moderate interest. Is this sabotage or some kind of test, and we’re being told to resolve it without an easy out of using the crows?

If it’s not a mithril, who else has the capability to hurt the crows so much and the interest in hiding their intervention into Moss’ circumstances? Could Krix, as a local Gold, put that much pressure on the crows? Could the Necromancers be fucking with things from afar to get to Fen’s allies (unlikely, but technically possible)?
>>
No. 955339 ID: 2e1db2

Not sure about Sayanos but could Val be protected by Moss's position?

Like say Warlord Krix decided that Moss might get threatened due to Fen and he was not going to let one of his palace guards get fucked with so he already has someone watching her?

Ask if you wife is in good with the crows.
>>
No. 955340 ID: b1b4f3

>>955333
Sounds like we need to get the ex to safety rather than keep watch on her. Bring her to the palace and it'll be fine. Same with your friend, or anyone else you believe is in danger.
Speaking of which, is Gahn on the no-watch list?

Hmm. The idea you had about imprisoning Sayanos has merit. Grab him, bring him to your prison, put him in your best empty cell. See if you can get some information out of him in exchange for keeping him safe from the other inmates (which will probably mean keeping him isolated)
Wait, CAN you do that though? Killing him is forgivable apparently but can you imprison him without someone busting him out? Or maybe that'd be productive too. If someone arranges to get him released, then it'd be pretty easy to trace that back to whoever's bankrolling him.
>>
No. 955342 ID: 5656e4

If Val is watched by some other faction, could the crows send a warning of danger to that faction? Along with, if necessary, a bribe request protection?
>>
No. 955343 ID: 015bf2

>>955338
Also worth pointing out: What are the implications of someone not wanting Sayanos and Val being observed by the crows?

It may be because the crows could spot who they're associating with and what kind of watch they're being kept under!

So, in a way, while they are being limited in what they can do, the crows have already helped out big time, because now you know this isn't just some dead-end noble tossing their weight around. It's someone with crow-intimidating influence supervising or observing a dead-end noble tossing their weight around.

You also know you need to be real careful and have a plan and eyes on the ground if you make a move against poaching Sayanos and securing Val. Same might go for Gahn. You might as well make a no-watch list overview of who's who of Moss' remaining associates that they're willing to watch or not.
>>
No. 955344 ID: 10c408

>>955337
Before this, I'd have ask who it could possibly have been but now...

Good grief, this is getting complicated.

Ask the crow if it can even answer questions about the no watch list that'd you like to ask.

If the answer is yes, then...

1: are Val and Sayanos on the no watch list for the same reason?
2: is the reason because someone is holding something of importance over the crows collective heads?
3: Is the person in question Lady Apanya?
>>
No. 955348 ID: 1d7c77

Ok, but like... Fen is on the crows' good list, right? Do they know Sayanos is after him? I'd bet they do, even if he's on the no-watch list. So, there must be some pressure on them from another direction. Or something. Well, first, better ask what time it is now, Moss, you need to know how long until you need to get back.

Right, so the crows can't watch him. Can they relay secure messages to people who can? Like, in a way that they conceivably say they had no idea what the messages were? I get the crows are very hand, but Cheese must be smart enough to have diversified her contacts.

... Huh. I kind of wonder if whoever's behind this is actually... sort of on Fen's side? Like, they want to teach him a lesson about trusting friends too much or something? Or they want to further humiliate Krix by sending failed assassins that everyone would assume came from him? We can't forget that Shup has reasons to keep an eye on Fen, too, and both he and Apanya may or may not be interested in grooming Fen into a nicely powerful but subservient noble for themselves. I mean, Fen is Zizi's brother, clearly rising fast, and equally clearly not ambitious beyond meeting his personal goal. Even if he's a long shot bet, the potential payoff - your very own pet Dragon Knight killer! - is a big one.

Making him kill one of his friends doesn't really fit with that well, so it's probably not the case this time, but it's something to keep in mind?
>>
No. 955349 ID: 757475

Is it because he is under someone's service who is in good terms with the crows? What about Moss's ex? Why would she be in the no watch list?
>>
No. 955354 ID: bb78f2

>>955333
Can you ask the crow for a roundabout way of letting us know what's up, something that's at least helpful?

Like say, ok, if Val and Sayanos are part of the same list, does that imply she would be safe from Sayanos harming her, at least? Do we actually need to watch her at all? Or do we definitely need to keep an eye on her, just without the crow network?

If we kill Sayanos, will the crow network blacklist us?

Can I get on the no-watch list somehow please, if someone ELSE besides you is using the network on me?
>>
No. 955357 ID: a9af05

>>955333
Try to find a loophole.

If the crows can't watch Sayanos and Val directly, then what about watching them indirectly? Could they watch people that coincidentally happen to be near Sayanos and Val so that we can still know what they're up to?

Otherwise, the only thing i can think of is to get someone to rush in, nab Val, and hide her somewhere.
>>
No. 955364 ID: b3dd3f

Cheese you said everything sayanos has is borrowed. Who from?
>>
No. 955369 ID: c2f1f6

Uh, did we mention that Sayanos was talking like he was working with noble co-conspirators? we did mention that, right?
>>
No. 955376 ID: afdebc

>but she's way too happy to go murdering a noble
In fairness, a not-insignificant number of the empire's nobles seem like people who would do the world better if they got themselves murdered.

>"I've never had this happen before. Not like this." She says.
"Sounds like maybe some bigger, scarier noble is pulling the idiot's stings, then?
That or the new idiot came prepared for crows."

Moss, can you think of any reason Val might be on the crow's list, for reasons other than this mess? Did she ever do a favor for a bird, or something?

Long shot, but "Hey Crow, on the off chance you're refusing to spy on Val out of respect or a favor or something to her, I figure I should say we're only trying to protect her. I fucked up hard, Sayanos promised he'd hurt her if I didn't do something for him, and even if I wanted to, there's no way I can succeed at what he wants, so she's in trouble."
>>
No. 955377 ID: b1b4f3

Well, good thing is, even if there is someone pulling the strings, we can still kill Sayanos and get away with it. It just means it'll piss off someone who doesn't want to act out in the open.
It's possible of course that someone *isn't* pulling the strings, and the Crows are blocked because someone's testing Moss and doesn't want Cheese to help. Like for instance, Krix could know full well what Sayanos is doing, doesn't approve, but wants Moss to handle it mostly on his own.
>>
No. 955380 ID: 10c408

>>955377
If Krix was aware that of Sayanos's scheme and approved it, Sayanos wouldn't have had to pay off the warden in charge of Moss. Of course if he was aware, why send a noble?

Krix has no shortage of underlings given that he has a literal army at his beck and call, any one of them could have walked up to Moss and screwed Moss over even more than Sayanos could have by making the commands in Krix's name rather than Sayanos' own (which doesn't have as much weight as Moss initially believed)
>>
No. 955382 ID: b1b4f3

>>955380
I said
>doesn't approve
>>
No. 955394 ID: dbd72b

Simplest assumption is big friends, but we don't know yet. The ex-wife bit is weird. If you know anything strange about her, time to spill, Moss.

At the end of the day, Sayanos himself was still rough and clumsy as fuck. Not a competent string puller. Go with traditional spies, and be extra careful for surprises.

Right out of left field warning: this may be a 4d chess ploy at Cheese, but it's kinda early to assume that. Just move forward cautiously until you can get more on him.
>>
No. 955400 ID: 10c408

>>955382
Last time something happened that Krix didn't approve of he sacked an entire town!
>>
No. 955401 ID: b1b4f3

>>955400
So how would he expect Moss to handle it, hmm?
>>
No. 955407 ID: 10c408

>>955401
Thing is, he did something. He didn't suddenly have all the initiative of a garden gnome statue about something he was aware of or actively hamper his own forces about. Krix doesn't like nobles, from what we've been told. And yet, you argue that Krix is aware of an uppity noble like sayanos assaulting one of krix's guards and then krix doing whatever he can to make the victim's current problem exponentially harder instead of putting sayanos's head on a stick because he decides to forgo motive, means and legal opportunity to knock off a noble?

I don't believe that, it doesn't make any sense whatsoever. There are easier things Krix could do to hamper Moss then to blackmail the crows like this and doing those things would have tipped off Cheese's spy network as well since they all involve locating Moss.

i find it far more likely to believe that Sayanos has someone higher up on the foodchain than Krix helping him with getting Fen assassinated.
>>
No. 955408 ID: b1b4f3

>>955407
You're still missing my point so how about you just drop it instead of writing paragraphs to try to convince me your point of view is correct? You don't need to be correct, and I don't need to convince you that I'm correct either. People can have different suggestions.
>>
No. 955413 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158086388362.png - (111.36KB , 800x800 , 1344.png )
955413

Val kept to herself, and she didn't seem like she'd want to get with a noble. She doesn't have any family attachments, either. She was lonely, even, and that's why she needed someone around. I truly have no reason to believe she's in any sort of position of power or influence regarding this or anything.

"Are crows the only way you have to watch people?"
>"Oh, no! Even besides putting all the eggs in one basket, I'd be totally blind in any unfoggy areas. Like I said I have agents, just, you know, they have to do things like walk! On the paths! We're still doing that it's just slower."
"Okay. About Sir Sayanos, I already figured there was a good chance he wasn't doing this on his own, and he might be getting pushed to do it by someone else."
>"Oh yeah for sure, I'm still sure this isn't some crap about revenge for killing Rasyan. I thought that it might've just been the council at most! But whoever's behind this is important enough to the crows, but isn't good enough to make Sayanos do this competently."
"Is the no watch list made out of a fear of retribution, or because of someone important."
>"I don't... the only person capable of retribution is Lady Apanya or above. And Lady Apanya and the crows have their own understanding, and crow, there's been no fallout like that, right?" She asks, and the crow chirps, and Cheese nods. "Right."
"Hold on, just to be sure. Crow, is my ex-wife with the crows?"

There's no response.

>Yeah crows only answer people on the good list like me, sorry! Crow, is Moss's ex-wife with the crows?" Chirps. "Nope, she is not. Not on the good or bad list, just the no watch."
"Is she safe, then, if she's on the no-watch list?"
>"No, Moss." says Cheese. "I mean it's safe to assume that she's on the no-watch list for Sir Sayanos's benefit, not hers."
"If it is for her sake, I hope the crows understand we're trying to keep her safe. But I have no reason to believe the crows would give her special treatment."
>>
No. 955414 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158086389832.png - (127.11KB , 800x800 , 1345.png )
955414

"What about Gahn?"
>"Gahn's on the nowatch list. Probably the same reason. Okay okay okay."
"Can't we watch people who are, I don't know, around my exwife? She probably is at least looking at - "
>"No, no, that kind of... indirect thing is very frowned upon and that's a good way to get on the bad list. None of that! Crow.

She asks the crow some questions and she relays what she learns to me. Sayanos, Val, Gahn, as well as a few relatives of Sayanos that Cheese knows about are all on the no watch list. The crow won't say if they're on there for the same reason, but Cheese assumes so.
>>
No. 955416 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158086398265.png - (101.54KB , 800x800 , 1346.png )
955416

>"And finally." Cheese continues, "This crow is assuring me that this isn't done out of fear of retaliation, from Lady Apanya or otherwise. Ugh, need to figure out who's behind this, but that's not easy because it's not like even I know how the crows are run, as a group. Who knows? Some inner council of crows? A secret underground ring of crow nobles? Who knows! Whoever runs things down there sure likes Sir Sayanos! And that's kind of a conflict of interest since Fen's in good with the crows, and Sir Sayanos sure wants him dead!"
"Fen is on the good list?"
>"Yeah, he showed a lot of good will to the crows, and they took a liking to Fen. I mean it's kind of weird that they're no-watching Sir Sayanos when - "

Cheese looks at the crow.

>"Fen is still on the good list, right?"

The crow is silent.
>>
No. 955420 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158086424222.png - (90.32KB , 800x800 , 1347.png )
955420

......

>"Right?"

The crow shakes its head and chirps.

>"What?! Why wasn't I - Why wasn't that the first thing you said? Why haven't 10 crows already flown in here chirping about this?!"

There's some squawking, now.

>"You're saying... Fen isn't on the bad list. He's not on the good list, either. And neither is Sir Sayanos, but Sayanos are on the no-watch list, but Fen is just... a complete neutral party now?!"

The crow nods.

"Were crows even helping Fen in Erja Nokol?"
>"Y-you don't understand, Moss, taking someone off the good list - that's only supposed to happen unless they really mess up! I don't think Fen would do that! He's not on the bad list but that's still a really bad sign! Come on, crow, tell me who can do that?!"

There's no response.

>"Tell me!"
>>
No. 955421 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158086429209.png - (139.85KB , 800x800 , 1348.png )
955421

The crow flies up out of the hatch.

>"... I must still be on the good list so there's that. But... what do I do about the rest?! We need to figure out who. Er, I do. Fen does. I need to figure out for Fen's sake!"
"Some noble, if not Lady Apanya?"
>"It's not a noble!"
"Don't hiss at me, Cheese."
>"... I'm sorry. I mean it, I'm sorry." She takes a deep breath. "I can't even say that for certain, but it's probably not a noble. This is just a conspiracy I wasn't ready for, is all. Oh, hell, I hope it's just a noble."
"I can still kill Sir Sayanos, right? I'll just piss someone off, whos with the crows."
>"Moss as much as I want to see you kick him right back in the dick, I kind of think we should care about who that someone is!"
"Maybe I should, but I don't. I'm already in well over my head, so I may as well piss some more people off if I can't even get to stop Sayanos."
>"Haha, maybe I'm over mine too! Maybe we should just... do something more direct about Sir Sayanos, after all, and I can try to figure out what the fallout's gonna be. I mean they can't be that competent if they're choosing Sir Sayanos of all people to protect. If you keep him alive, maybe we can figure something out from him. I mean the alternative is... " Cheese makes a desperate laugh. "Going straight to the Crow Zone and demanding to see who's in charge!"

This isn't the kind of composure I expect from a spymaster. I can gather why this is a big deal, but I don't know enough to know why she's panicking so hard about it.
>>
No. 955424 ID: 695467

Ask Cheese if there's any factions like the Crows in Erja Nokol, because I remember Fen ran into some Frogs that were acting weird. Could they have relations with the Crows?
>>
No. 955426 ID: c6c0de

>>955421
Sayanos is dying regardless of Moss' actions. This is somebody tying up loose ends. If Moss doesn't do the killing himself, he'll be framed for it. Under no circumstances should Moss return to his station.
>>
No. 955428 ID: e2f5cc

It's the Dragon Knights. The Dragon Knights are doing this. Who else has the power to strong arm the crows while also hating Fen, A.K.A. Brother to to the only(?) person to have ever killed one of their own and seems to be rapidly approaching similar levels of power to him while also having demonstrated he's willing to do whatever it takes to get what he wants, and his ultimate goals may even to a mystery to them.

There is no winning move here if my assumption is right, so the best thing to do is what Cheese suggested and try to talk to the crows yourself while praying to anything that'll listen things aren't as I think.
>>
No. 955430 ID: 10c408

But you do know she's panicking about it. She can't help either of you if she keeps working herself up into a tizzy about this really ominous string of bad news from the crows.

So try and get her to be calm and breathing. One disaster at a time. Unless you can come up with something else, there's always crying foul about Sayanos to Krix on the chance that he'll take umbrage with the noble and the warden than the guard who got assaulted and ordered to do wasteful shit.

And let's be honest if he takes umbrage with YOU it still might be a far more merciful fate than whatever the army will do to you for trying to stab one of their soldiers in the back.
>>
No. 955431 ID: bb78f2

>>955421
I already made a mistake once not killing Sayanos on the spot. I'm not letting it happen again.

We're dealing with him direct. Doing the SMART thing lately seems to be the stupidest thing, so clearly the brash route must be right lately. It worked for Fen, why the fuck won't it work for me? I'm not Fen, but goddamn if he didn't set a good example of how fortune goes to the bold.

I can't play these goddamn noble or crow head games, I'm a commoner dammit. It's time for a commoner solution.

I'm going to Graskin and going to protect my goddamn ex-wife, and I'll kill any fool who comes near me. I'll live in the barbarian lands and become one if I have to. Fuck this society.
>>
No. 955432 ID: afdebc

Hey Cheese, remember when Fen ran into a Frog, and took a shot at it, and wrote you about it? (Back in thread 5). You brought up Frog's Pond, and Zall wasn't concerned at all about Fen's report, suggesting the frogs were a known entity to him, and not another sorcerous or necromantic anomaly whipped up by the crazies at the bottom of the tower.

>Fen losing goodwill
Any chance that's just a result of Apanya sending her goons to forcibly retrieve the 3 mithril coins and the dragoncloth Fen had stored in the Crow Zone? Banks generally don't like it when customers bring the feds down on them, and make them look like less of a secure or safe place to store things.

>I can gather why this is a big deal, but I don't know enough to know why she's panicking so hard about it.
Well, what things are scarier than nobles? That list can't be very long. And Cheese is afraid one of those is involved.

>just do it, figure out the fallout later
>This isn't the kind of composure I expect from a spymaster.
Damage control, right? Gotta balance what can be found out with the window to act. I don't have the time to completely unravel a conspiracy, but we also can't be stupid in snuffing out the threat. Gotta do the best we can at both with what we have, right?

If going to the Crows is the fastest way to fix that, that's one thing, but even if we hike over to Crowtown and get past who's on what list quick, that doesn't fix the actual obstacles.
>>
No. 955433 ID: 2202fb

>>955421
It may make the most sense for Moss to follow through with killing Fen for now since it would at least buy some time till bodies start piling up. Although with how thorough our mystery adversary is, it seems like we are kind of in between a rock and a hard place.
>>
No. 955434 ID: bb78f2

>>955431
Cheese, if you can, ask to put me on the no-watch list.
If you or the crows need a favor for that kind of pull, and letting me disappear, fine, name it, I'll get it done on the way. Just make it possible for me to do, please.

I just want out.
>>
No. 955436 ID: 86eb65

Maybe Sir idiot is a test?

The mystery people push him out in front and see what happens to him. They have spies all over and whatever happens it lets them get a glimpse of Cheese and Fen's abilities and temperament?

Fen has stirred up a lot of waves lately. The brother of Zizi the dragon slayer wanders out of the woods and promptly befriends Cheese the spymaster and the Crows in a week. And then personally ends up killing several nobles and starts a minor war before he manages to walk out unharmed.

And now he is getting accolades and training from grand army knights. All the big kids on the block are going to be watching now.


So here is my theory. This idiot has a friend who told him "Man people are whispering about how weak you are for letting Fen live." And so he goes off half cocked and starts making a mess. The "Friend" then sits back and watches the show and gets to see how you will respond.
>>
No. 955437 ID: c2f1f6

Breathe dammit, come on cheese, deduce this. You're the one who knows about these corridors of power I've never even heard of, get your head on straight. We've got a plan B; bag Sayanos, now let's work on a plan A.

What if this is some kind of test for me? It's known I'm a friend of Fen's, maybe this is some kind of loyalty trap to see how I act with my back to the wall, or to ferret out you or your non-crow resources or something. I mean, we've established there are much better ways to go about trying to kill someone, this person clearly has the resources to do that.

Who else is even on this good list? What does that even entail?
>>
No. 955440 ID: 015bf2

Cheese is just having one of her preparatory panic attacks, she’ll find her game face again soon enough.

>go to crow boss, ask for answers
Sounds like something Fen’d do.

>wot dis mean
Look. If the crows are neither for nor against Fen that means at some level they’ve decided he’s neither of help nor an obstacle to them, right? On an average, at least. That he was in their good graces but is no longer can be the work of someone who Fen has come to oppose that the crows like more, and them not putting him on the bad list could be a nod to the fact he did them good. And if it’s not some noble, the person who has that kind of sway...

Well, you’re sweating buckets, so you must have some idea of who that could be, don’t you? But you’re not sure. And you’re not off the crow good guy list either, so either they forgot you, they didn’t know about you, they didn’t want to target you as well or they didn’t have the influence to swing unfriending both you and Fen.

Now, we can be sure the two issues are related, can’t we? Fen falling off the good list and my associates coming under no-watch? If so, knowing about my friendship with Fen means they SHOULD know about yours as well, and if they didn’t get you unfriended, just tried to keep you in the dark...

Are associates of yours trying to get me to kill Fen under your nose, Cheese?

Alright, fuck it, Sayanos is just a head of the hydra here and can be dealt with ASAP once whoever protects him is off our backs. I’ll go to the crow zone. Give me some leverage, something I can use to get them to talk. I’ll say I threatened you over it, if it’s an issue. I’m a desperate man up shit creek anyway, and since I’m supposed to hate you it shouldn’t be a stretch.

Huh. I guess whoever schemed this up didn’t think we’d get in touch.
>>
No. 955442 ID: b1b4f3

>>955421
...wait a minute. I just put 2 and 2 together. Whoever's manipulating Sayanos is either incompetent or has limited resources and has to deal with his shittiness. Fen is proving to be a person of interest in Erja Nokol. Some of the mutants want the necromancers to win. The mutants have very few connections among the nobles, but Sayanos is new and thus could be easy to manipulate. I imagine they also work with the Crows, so maybe the necromancer-friendly mutants are more well liked by the Crows since the Crows don't like the empire? The timing is also good, since Cheese just recently got a visit from a relative.
Unfortunately Moss doesn't know this, but it would explain why Cheese is panicking- she thinks she might have to start acting directly against her extended family.

Anyway, let's see if we can capture Sayanos to find out who he's working for. After that we can decide if we need to kill him or negotiate with his boss.
>walk into the Crow Zone and ask who's in charge
Is there a reason not to do that?
>>
No. 955445 ID: 91ee5f

>>955421
Ask Cheese if this means that you have to go to Erja Nokol to get killed by Fen now? Because you really don’t want to go to Erja Nokol to get killed by Fen.
>>
No. 955446 ID: 833c22

All i can think of is necromancers. I am not a good spy, not my thing. I am a man of the moment, like Fen and Moss.
>>
No. 955448 ID: 10c408

>>955440
Sayanos isn't just "protected" by whoever is manipulating the crows, he's got imperial law on his side as well by virtue of his current position. If we are to eliminate Sayanos, we have to change that on top of sorting out this new development with the crows.
>>
No. 955450 ID: ce39da

"I see two plausible theories here:
"1: A dragon knight (or worse/equivalent) is behind this. The amount of resources they have at their disposal means lowly Sayanos getting me to try and kill Fen is just Layer One of their schemes. We don't have time to think about what Layers Two Through Whatever are, but killing Sayanos would at least force them to show more of their hand. If they could afford to wage open war, they wouldn't bother with the pretense, so there's probably a point where they can't pursue this anymore.
"2: An associate of yours is trying to get around you, through me, to kill Fen because he's in the way. They have enough influence to sway the crows in ways no noble could, and get at the odd noble themselves, but that's it. However, I assume you're not comfortable with renouncing these hypothetical guys in this scenario. The solution is obvious; I kill him personally, in a way that looks like I didn't have any large-scale help, and you deny all part in it.
"This approach can work in the first scenario, too. I'll need a 'when' and 'where' if I'm going to do this, though. Meanwhile, to make sure a connection can't be made between us, I think you should figure out how to put me on the No-Watch List - with the 'Anonymous Implementer' clause, of course.
"I mean... So how was that? This is the first time I've done sleuthing and skullduggery like this, but I feel pretty sure. How would you grade that surmising?"
>>
No. 955451 ID: 015bf2

>>955448
Or, as Cheese pointed out, use imperial law to our advantage, as we work for a Gold and Sayanos is a hopped-up Stone, and the servants of one stepping on the other in the line of duty, especially when the Gold doesn't care for other nobles, is valid enough excuse for the empire for Moss to not be prosecuted.
>>
No. 955452 ID: 10c408

>>955451
"If we are to eliminate Sayanos, we have to change that on top of sorting out this new development with the crows."

We can't just walk up to and stab Sayanos, we need an excuse. Though I wouldn't be surprised if the excuse is as simple as a letter from Krix saying "You kicked Moss in the balls so I'm letting him kill you"
>>
No. 955457 ID: 30e062

Cheese, gather your relatives and head to the crow zone. You need to get some serious answers and protect Fen.
>>
No. 955459 ID: a2216d

Ok, let's think. How could Fen have done anything to get off the bad list? He's been in Erja ever since the trial, basically, unless he somehow screwed up during basic training and travel which is very unlikely. So, something he did in Erja must have done it. But the only things he's done in Erja is 1) kill people who tried to kill him, which I'd assume the crows wouldn't blame him for and 2) fight the necromancers.

Does that mean the crows are in cahoots with the necromancers? Scary thought, but probably not, since then that would probably dunk him straight into the bad list, and probably get Cheese off the good list, too. So maybe it's more indirect? They're allies of allies of allies (etc) of the necromancers? Or... hm. I'd have said the crows can't blame people for doing things against their interests if that person doesn't know what the crows' interests are, but it's possible that they recognize that and just being taken off the good list was the more lenient option. Hm. What things do you know the crows don't like, Cheese? And what do you know they do like?

Ok, next time you send a letter to Fen, Cheese, try tell him about this crow situation. But apart from that, forget the crows. Sayanos might be on the no-watch list but that crow was pretty clear that Sayanos isn't on their good list either. So let's dial it back to some other plan. Can we get Sayanos to come out himself again somehow? Maybe forge a letter from Apanya or Krix telling him to knock it off? The latter would be risky since a stone noble could conceivably just ask Krix to confirm, but a letter straight from Apanya might be more unbelievable. Maybe Cheese knows what agent of Apanya would send those sorts of messages for her? Or something else. Uncover or fake evidence of him tampering with the mail and blackmail him?
>>
No. 955460 ID: bdd7f8

Hmm. Truth wizards are a thing. We could just send him an anonymous message saying someone is witness to his mail tampering - make it sound like someone who noticed his trip to visit Moss, rather than it coming from Moss himself, if possible - and go "come to [place] and we'll discuss keeping things quiet", then murder him. Like, maybe even make it sound like it comes from a truth wizard who the mystery witness went to? There has to have been incidents of truth wizards using their powers to blackmail people. Question is if they'd bother with a stone noble. Maybe make it sound like they want to invest in his future as a pawn for them? Something like that? It's a risky plan, especially if we can't make a good guess at the circumstances he read the mail. But, the letter could be written in such a way as to be vague, like the writer is avoiding any incriminating evidence themselves and just alluding to it. It might work?
>>
No. 955464 ID: 5e08d5

Hm, have the crows been engaging in diplomatic talks with the frogs? Since the latter are hostile to the mausoleum campaign, downfradinf Fen could be a gesture of good will towards them.

Also, before speculating about dragon knights, aren't we forgetting Shup? Maybe learning about nightmare Lily got him to finally peg Fen as dangerous rival...
>>
No. 955470 ID: 5e08d5

Maybe we should keep track of which objectives are more urgent. I'd say protecting Val is one of them, and by the time we figure out who's pulling the strings it might be too late.
Which means, on her side, we should skip the crows and send an armed kobold to intercept hostiles. Meanwhile we'll figure out this mess.
>>
No. 955484 ID: 10c408

>>955464
If by dangerous rival you mean "oh snap, he's actually going for the long shot bet, that lunatic barbarian." then yes.
>>
No. 955485 ID: 864e49

>>955421
While everybody has some theory about the Crows all I know is that they better have a damn good reason cause Fen/Cheese will remember this.

>>955464
>downfradinf Fen
Weird flex but okay.
>>
No. 955486 ID: b1b4f3

>>955464
>frogs in erja nokol may be negotiating with Crows
Heyyy, good thinking. The two groups might have a non-aggression pact or something, which means the frogs were angry about a friend of the crows being there. The crows taking him off the good list would be a way of honoring the pact.
Also Fen kindof shot at one of the frogs, so...
>>
No. 955488 ID: 10c408

>>955486
if it was because of the frogs, then I doubt it's because we almost hit one of them when there's more impressive feats/actions Fen has done that have drastically stymied the necromancers

1: He survived making contact with the ice worm anomaly, and returned with a bit of forest kobold bone
2: this lead to the operation where said anomaly was successfully neutralized
3: during said operation he set one of the necromancer's southern kobold's allies *on fire*
4: and speaking of, the whole fake-lily business? I'm counting that as well.
>>
No. 955490 ID: b1b4f3

>>955488
Stop that.
>>
No. 955511 ID: dbd72b

Honestly, Sayanos is the weak link, here. Someone needed to talk to him to pressure him into this, or better yet, he made some really big deals trying to get vengeance, and it'll end with him. Either way, he's your best contact. We'll have to see if we can get him to gloat, or force it out of him. Still have to kill him, of course. Nobles get really pissy about that sort of thing, and we have absolutely no way to bribe him.

Fen's downgrade is the biggest issue. Especially since Cheese wasn't jeopardized? Investigating frogs via "are crows in Erja Nokol/what are the crows of Erja Nokol?" line is all we got, so let's try it.
Otherwise, prepare to kick Sayanos's ass. Maybe ask Cheese if she has any contacts that can help win the fight, clean or dirty. We're talking training, but also poison/any other way to fix a fight.
>>
No. 955512 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158092136238.png - (146.66KB , 800x800 , 1349.png )
955512

"If I can't get on the no watch list and wash my hands of this whole business, then I've got to wait on you, because you're the one with hidden corridors of power."
>"Let me... let me think. Because you're definitely not getting on the no watch list in any way I could think of."
"Not even on the good list?"
>"I mean that's more realistic but that doesn't mean a no watch."
"What does the good list mean then?"
>"It means they acknowledge your existence and that you can do business with them. So if Fen lost that... from his perspective it just means he can't ask them for anything, but the crows won't actively hassle him, and will only be watched if someone pays up."
"Apanya took back the money back that Fen banked with the crows, didn't she?"
>"Yeah but they didn't blame him for that, if they did he would've been off the good list then, but Fen was definitely on the good list just a few weeks ago at the latest!"

I sit back, and at least she starts doing something, or at least looks busy as she filters through papers and consults her map with a level of paper records that could only exist in the Turtle, save for wizards casting anti-rot on it all.

I have half a mind to run back to Graskin and protect my ex-wife, but she wouldn't want it. I'll have to rely on Cheese's underhanded methods for now.

Maybe some dragon knight is behind this, and that's why she's panicking and I'm not. I don't fear dragon knights any more than nobles, because they can't harm me any more than most nobles can.
>>
No. 955513 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158092151086.png - (150.08KB , 800x800 , 1350.png )
955513

Then again, Dragon Knights don't have much of a reputation for subterfuge. Maybe that's exactly how they like it, but as far as I know, when they take action, they do so bluntly and forcibly.

Finally, Cheese looks at me.

>"Okay. I've come up with something. You go back to Tunna, and get approached by Gahn, and fake your acceptance of this mission. That'll at least buy time for my foot agents to do some digging."
"I hope you don't expect me to go to Erja Nokol to get killed by Fen."
>"Don't joke Moss you know I don't. The warp is in 5 days so you won't get to Erja Nokol before then. That's long enough for me to get things in place, and mayyybe even send Sir Sayanos over to you alone, and if that happens you can do what you wanna do, if you're not as worried about what'll happen after. I'll definitely send you word before you go warping to Erja Nokol if nothing else!"

I pause.

>"Is something wrong with that?"
"No, but there's a thought nagging me."
>"Eh?"
>>
No. 955514 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158092152728.png - (122.12KB , 800x800 , 1351.png )
955514

"The crows are a subterfuge network of spies, but for the most part, they don't work with nobles."
>"Er, sometimes..."
"Us guards have always been ordered to report and kill any crows that are seen outside of the crow zone. They're not a skullduggery faction that have ever willingly worked with nobles. The people they work with are people like bandits, spies, dissidents, mutants. Fen was doing well with them. Then, in the recent past, he started fighting a dissident faction in the mutant homeland, and without any apparent reason, the crows suddenly pulled their support for him. Do you see where I'm going with this?"
>"Wha... what happened to the lazy breaktown guard who fell asleep on duty?"

I stare her down.

>"... Yes, Moss, I see where you're going with that, and the literal answer is the Crow Zone. That's where I at least have to go to figure out if the crows have necromantic uprising ties... well, there's a lot of possibilities here, and I hope my extended family has nothing to do with this, but there's a chance, I know. You can come with me if you want. I figured you'd have more reason to go back to your post in Tunna, and if you do I'll do what I can for you right away before leaving. If you come with me to the crows, then I'll tie off any business here and we'll go within the hour."
"Come to think of it, are there crows in Erja Nokol?"
>"No. Only frogs, and they're spread out across the region. The crows have their centralized network out of, obviously, Crow Zone."
>>
No. 955516 ID: 3ce8ff

our excuse for leaving will not last super long (or have we already overstayed it) so we should probably head back if we want to keep that plan open. Or if it is too late for that we go with cheese to the Crow Zone.
>>
No. 955518 ID: bdd7f8

Much as it sounds like an adventure, I don't think Moss would actually have much to contribute to a visit to the Crow Zone. Not enough to justify the risks, anyway. He should go back to his post.
>>
No. 955521 ID: c2f1f6

Has cheese got her own security she can use for personal protection? If so, you'll have to... you will trust her with following through on her own. Unless she needs your sword arm, best you can do is try to keep up appearances in Tunna.
>>
No. 955522 ID: e2f5cc

The only reason I can think of to go with cheese is to prevent her from getting merked by crows/their protectors for asking too many questions, but if they want her dead they can probably just kill you too, so not much to do other than go back and hope you can get off of this with just a slap on the wrist.
>>
No. 955524 ID: 86eb65

As fun as watching you talk to a bunch of Crows would be I should try to keep up my cover story.

With my mail being watched how do I get a hold of you if things change quickly?
>>
No. 955525 ID: 5e7ac9

Wait, what are the odds of Lord Sayonara having Moss run to Erja Nokol at swordpoint, or otherwise not waiting for the warp? Cheese should send a fast letter to Fen just in case.

(Hopefully I didn't neumono it up this time)
>>
No. 955527 ID: 10c408

Don't go to the crow zone, your cover story won't last forever.

Do at least mention that someone has also been breaking into your mail and that you and Cheese need something more trustworthy and tamper proof since even the imperial mail system isn't reliable if anyone puts their mind to it apparently.
>>
No. 955530 ID: ce39da

"Cheese, I brought this up because if the likely turns out to be the truth here, then it's doubly important that I kill Sayanos personally, so hopefully, you can deny all part in it if certain acquaintances start asking around. I only need some time alone with the bastard so I can 'provoke' him into 'provoking' me into killing him. I'll be the one flipping their table here, so you can wash your hands of it and look into the full conspiracy in peace. I need to be getting back in the meantime. I'm putting all my trust in you delivering him."
>>
No. 955531 ID: b1b4f3

>>955514
Go meet Gahn. It's possible you can get more information out of him, and I can't imagine Cheese needing your help in Crow Zone.
>>
No. 955533 ID: 91ee5f

>>955514
“Just to make absolutely sure I’m understanding this correctly, if I kill Sir Sayanos, that means I don’t have to go to Erja Nokol, right?”
>>
No. 955542 ID: bb78f2

Fine, I'll go meet Gahn.
In the event I am able to kill Sayanos, what should I say to the closest authorities, Warlord Krix, or hell Gahn once I'm balls deep in Sayanos, probably right in front of him? Should I just let Gahn know he's a nobody noble with no power? If I talk to Krix, should I let him know I talked to you to verify Sayanos's nobody status? I imagine I'll be asked once or twice after he's dead.

Perhaps you have a credible and believable spymaster friend willing to accept responsibility if you want to stay out of the limelight, Cheese? Perhaps one close to Krix? They may be able to gain favor as well with him, which gains you favor indirectly.
>>
No. 955559 ID: 833c22

I am split between going to the crow zone and going back to Tuna. But since Moss can't do both things at the same time, so he should go back while Cheese goes with the crows to find out what happened. Cheese should warn Fen of this mess as well, both about Moss and the crows.
>>
No. 955573 ID: 015bf2

Yeah, head back to Tunna. You want to remain under Krix for now, sucky as that may be.

But before you go:

Stupid long shot thought. Can Gahn kill Sayanos and get away with it? Say, get arrested by Moss and be forgiven his crime by Krix (maybe even get employed alongside Moss), or at least put in jail where Moss can keep an eye on him until Fen goes for Krix. Then it’s just a botched plot on the dissidents’ side, pawns underestimating pawns, which may buy time. Sucks for Gahn, but at least his family’s safer with Sayanos dead and him out of the picture as a pawn.

Will the crows tell their contacts about Moss being with Cheese? If so they’ll know Moss is not willing to be up and up about killing Fen, and may take steps to secure Val, so saving her may be s priority. In the letter she sent, it sounded like she’d gotten in contact with someone who knew where Moss lived. That person is likely a catspaw who manipulated her to send a letter to Moss. It’s no accident both Gahn and Val’s letters were delivered by Sayanos. So, uh, that’s someone to look for. A new friend in Val’s life. Unless she’s already being overtly kept hostage, but it didn’t sound like the opponents have a ton of assets to work with and keeping a hostage is a full-time job. Easier to just have someone keep in touch and keep watch.
>>
No. 955579 ID: 10c408

>>955573
Pretty sure the only thing awaiting Gahn if he manages to bump off Sayanos is a quick and messy execution either by sayanos' guards, the axeman assigned to his case after he's found guilty of noble slaying or a rather brutal death by the prisoners for not being one of them.
>>
No. 955580 ID: 10c408

>>955573
Pretty sure the only thing awaiting Gahn if he manages to bump off Sayanos is a quick and messy execution either by sayanos' guards, the axeman assigned to his case after he's found guilty of noble slaying or a rather brutal death by the prisoners for not being one of them.
>>
No. 955603 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158102151047.png - (129.34KB , 800x800 , 1352.png )
955603

"There's more for me to do in Tunna. If I kill Sir Sayanos, I won't need to go to Erja Nokol, right?"

She throws up her hands.

>"I don't think so but who knows anything anymore! Okay, listen, there's a building in Tunna, with a basement, with a little trash bin, and a little chest under that trash bin. If you leave a letter in there, someone checks it twice a day and delivers it to me. Fold the paper exactly three times if you need it delivered fast. Don't use the regular mail anymore."
"Okay. Wait, Cheese, the crows. They know I came to you! Sir Sayanos will know I've come to you for help."
>"And that might've been a problem, but I thought about that already! And that actually doesn't change as much as you might think. Sir Sayanos is still a dumb bag of bricks, and you still have to use your head and avoid doing anything dumb like meeting him on his terms. Just say I was too unreliable to help, and you had no choice but to accept, if he brings me up."

Cheese shows me on a sketch where the building is. She also spends a little time telling me of some secret body codes. Things like scratching the back of my left hand to request help and so on, along with various confirmation motions to confirm that the thing I just did was a secret message and not just because the back of my hand itched.

I learn 'yes', 'no', 'I need help', 'use your judgement', 'all clear', 'meet me later'. I don't know if I'll remember any of it, since I'm in a hurry to get back. Nawm must be in some hot water covering for me this much.

I tell Cheese to try her best to keep Val safe, and try to watch out for any new 'friends' she has. I also consider the thought that I'll be forced to travel on foot to Erja Nokol, but Cheese says I'll be even easier to find if that's the case. Plus, it'll take even longer to get to Erja Nokol than if I took the warp unless I'm really forced to run myself ragged. At least I'd get a break from the dungeon.
>>
No. 955604 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158102156313.png - (46.82KB , 1200x800 , 1353.png )
955604

I travel the same route back.
>>
No. 955605 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158102169790.png - (82.91KB , 800x800 , 1354.png )
955605

And before lunchtime, I'm uniformed up and in the dungeon.

>"There you are!" says Nawm, running up to me. "Where have you been?!"
"... what's going on?"
>"Everything is going on Moss! I can't believe you chose today of all days to be late! I'm gonna need you to give me - "
>>
No. 955606 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158102180046.png - (22.54KB , 800x800 , 1355.png )
955606

She tilts her head back and chokes back a laugh.

>"Three lunches to make up for the captain shruggings his shoulders at me for telling him you were totally incapacitated by drinking your pain away."

I envy Nawm's ability to take nothing seriously.

"Nawm. Really."
>"Haha no nothing happened, I don't even think he said he'd dock your pay. Now hurry up and stand at your post."
>>
No. 955607 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158102182908.png - (40.82KB , 800x800 , 1356.png )
955607

I do, and nothing comes of the rest of the day, so I clean off my feet and go back to the palace to try and get some much needed rest. I'm so out of sorts that I'm almost surprised to see Gahn looking around.

>"Hey, buddy! Canya believe they let a dirtball like me in the palace?!"
>>
No. 955609 ID: b0044f

"You lazy fuck! Is that a messenger pouch I see holding all that fat in? What kind of cushy desk job did you end up with!"

"At least I have palace food as a excuse!"

Go give him a hug and catch up on old times. He might be getting blackmailed but if he is a old friend treat him as such.

As for Nawm when you see her again make sure to let her know she will only get 3 lunches after you get one from her. (got to see how her cooking skills are in case you need a second wife.)
>>
No. 955610 ID: b1b4f3

>>955607
Be all buddy-buddy with him until you can talk in private. Then you can find out how he's been forced into this, and if there's any way you can KEEP him in the palace so he won't get offed.
You should tell him (just in case he's 100% spy at this point) that you're worried about failing the task.
>>
No. 955611 ID: 465a14

Tell Nawm there are easier ways to ask you on a date next time she demands meals.
>>
No. 955616 ID: bb78f2

>>955607
Oh shit, Gahn, did you get arrested? Nawm, sound the alarm, I think we have an escaped prisoner here.
>>
No. 955617 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158103174272.png - (19.88KB , 800x800 , 1357.png )
955617

"They let anyone in, as long as you can get arrested."
>"I still got the clothes on my back, so I figure I ain't going there yet!"

We hug. It's the usual greeting, and this time it feels weird. Except for the part where it feels like he's trying to break my back. That feeling is normal.

"Is that a messenger pouch? Did you end up with a cushy desk job or something?"
>"Nah I wish, but I'm a hired escort so I sit my fat ass on wagons all day. Downside is I gotta bathe."
"You don't smell like you do."
>"That's just the natural smell of nature, Moss, somethin' you probly forgot about in your gilded dungeon job!"

Can't even laugh at that one.

>"Alright enough smalltalk let's go get drunk."
"Yes."
>>
No. 955619 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158103181847.png - (27.71KB , 800x800 , 1358.png )
955619

We go sit ourselves at a palace bar, and we've caught up with each other by the time I'm reasonably sloshed for this. We sit in silence for a little while.

>"Look at all these posh pen pushers."
"I was wondering why you were silent, took awhile to come up with that one, huh."
>"Worth the wait, wasn't it?
"Almost got another, there."
>"... shit, I'm a natural. Must be this booze, it's clean and expensive as fuck. Don't worry I can pay for myself. Working for Lord Krix going well for you?"

I waver in his general direction. That's a stupid question and I know he's not asking that cause he's stupid.

>"Ya know, there's a way to get out of it. I might have a job for you that you ain't gonna like, exactly, but do it once and you'll be able to take it easy again. Remember that barbarian, Finn?"
"... Yeah, Gahn, I remember him."
>"How attached to his life are you?"
>>
No. 955621 ID: 465a14

You know Fen enough to understand you're not going to be able to deal with his paranoia and murdering.
>>
No. 955622 ID: 10c408

"As much as certain individuals expected, which is how I am now expected to risk my own skin for fear of what could happen to everyone I know.

Including you."
>>
No. 955623 ID: 229363

"You really want to talk about this out here, buddy?" Try get him somewhere more private. Walls have ears, here. If you can manage that, or even if not, comment next about how you wish he'd gotten here faster so that you could have done this without a noble coming down to abuse your balls personally. There's a possibility he's been hired by someone other than Sayanos - maybe watch for a reaction that would confirm that one way or another?
>>
No. 955624 ID: 833c22

Gods be damn, him too?
Why don't you ask him to help you kill Sayanos so everybody can leave you the fuck alone. Because there is no fucking way you can kill Fen and everybody should know that.
>>
No. 955625 ID: e2f5cc

"Less than I am to yours and everyone else's, but here isn't the best place to discuss this."
>>
No. 955626 ID: 10c408

>>955624
We knew this already. Cheese and Moss discussed this bit a few update.

but tl;dr Gahn here got the same crap deal but unlike Moss he bungled keeping quiet about it, which is how Cheese found out.
>>
No. 955628 ID: bb78f2

>>955619
What I'm attached to is my own damn life, Gahn. You going for that Maw Bounty? It ain't worth it, it's that high for a reason. If it ain't him that'll kill us, it'll be the assassin army that does.

Brother Zizi killed a Dragon Knight, you know. Apples fall closer together than they do from the tree, you know. Think YOU can take on a Dragon Knight yourself, Gahn? If you can't, double think that thought for a moment. I've SEEN one in action, in Fen's trial. I didn't actually get to see anything, because the nobles heads flopped to the ground in an instant. That means Zizi moves as fast as that, which means Fen has to potential to react that fast as well. I'll tell you what, we go for that bounty, we'll just be heads floppin' on the ground.
>>
No. 955629 ID: c2f1f6

I know the score, Gahn. Should we go somewhere we can speak more openly?

...Look, some noble already put me on the case after he kneed me in the crotch and threatened both you and my ex-wife when I didn't accept the job enthusiastically enough. The problem is I can't do it. It's not that I'm unwilling, I'm unable. I don't even think I could get him before the entire fuckin' army gets me in a rush. And then the point is moot, I've failed and Sayano goes through with his threats.

Now there's two options. One, I try, fail, you make it count. Hide somewhere far from the influence of this conspiracy. Two, tell me who came to threaten you and we try to do something about this.
>>
No. 955633 ID: 86eb65

"Pretty attached when I think about what his brother will do to me if I was to ever consider it."

"Also the local mythril has granted him her protection. And he has a few abomination friends. Not to mention how Fen himself is dangerous as can be."

"Why you ask?"
>>
No. 955634 ID: 015bf2

>>955619
Give Gahn a weird smile, half friendly, half... something.

"Couldn't keep it to shit-talking any longer, eh? Well, in my opinion..."

Sigh and take a swig of your drink. Tell him what you think - that it doesn't matter.

"...you cottoned on to that Fen was the Kingslayer's brother, right? It doesn't matter how nice I feel about him or not. Success or fail, we're probably dead men walking. Just when I'd started getting used to the soul hell of the dungeons, too. And getting called Chicken Muscle, which I'm considering changing my name officially to, on account of..."

Pause, look annoyed with yourself. Be honest with Gahn, somewhat.

"You're a good friend and if push comes to shove I'd rather not be the death of your line - or Val, for that matter. But I've asked a friend of a friend on how to avoid this political drama shit and so far I have it on good authority Sayanos is a fucking paper tiger. For a stone he barely has the influence of a wood. Had to kick me in the nuts just to get me to say sir. Oh, no, wait, he did that for fun. He's a great new boss, to go with my other, greater new boss."

Take a swig and shrug.

"Anyway, turns out I could've shanked him for getting in the way of my line of duty and the Warlord wouldn't even have batted an eye. Palace guard privilege goes pretty far against trash nobles, turns out. Wish I'd known. Now I have to contrive an excuse to put him in a position where that can happen again. Any ideas? Or did your recruiter say you were working for, oh, I don't know, the necromancers of Erja Nokol? That'd just about make my day complete."

Lay your head down on the counter, sideways. Gauge his reaction. Try not to fall asleep. Fail.
>>
No. 955635 ID: 015bf2

>>955634
Actually, trying to find a private spot before unloading this might be wise. Gahn himself might pass it on, but you're not revealing anything other than that you have a doubt and that you've been in touch with someone who has political understanding, which could be people in the palace.
>>
No. 955638 ID: b1b4f3

>>955619
A fair amount, enough to consider killing him, but Sayano's assassination contract seems pretty impossible to pull off and survive. Yeah, Sayano got impatient and showed up in person. You're currently trying to come up with a plan for getting out of this alive. Speaking of which does Gahn know he dies if you fail? He might want to stay in the palace for a while.
>>
No. 955640 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158104256433.png - (22.16KB , 800x800 , 1359.png )
955640

"Less than I am to others, and about as much as people apparently expect. This really the place to discuss it?"
>"Why the hell not?"
"Palace walls come with ears."
>"Well they can listen to those tonedeaf assholes over there sing their songs."

I didn't even notice, but those 'posh pen pushers' did break out in a loud folk song about something or other. They're so off with their timing that I can't even make out which song it is.

"So you're going after that Maw bounty?"
>"Well, uh... yeah, I guess I am! Thing is, I got a noble's backing, so it won't just be us charging in like some random assassins. We got a pretty fantastic set of resources."
"You know Fen's dangerous. He's a paranoid guy. Might've had a chance to surprise him when I first met him, but past that... naw."
>"Don't give up so easy. Hell, you don't even need to be the one to do it if you don't wanna, just pull him to some bar where we can fill it with our own guys, so even if he's fully armored up with his squad, we'll outnumber him 10 to 1."
"You know he's Zizi's brother, right? Maybe he isn't Zizi, but he could be. You weren't there for the hearing, right? I saw a Dragon Knight fight. Well, not fight. More of an execution, but it was supposed to be a fight."
>"The difference between us and the dragon king is that we're not gonna stand on top of a tower yelling 'come fight us, Zizi!'. We're gonna disappear and lie low, and Zizi can go seek revenge on the noble that's making me do this. Look at you, buddy. You're getting ran ragged by this job, you look like hell."
"Maybe you shoulda shown up sooner so that noble wouldn't come down here personally to kick me in my balls."
>"Huh? Sir Sayanos saw you already?"
"That's the guy. He came to you personally, too?"
>"Yeah. Har, I shoulda known he'd see you. Well I woulda come sooner, Moss, but your dumbass lied to me about where you were stationed. Why'd ya say Graskin?"
"Musta wrote to you while in a drunken stupor."

He laughs, then sighs out a breath, and takes a long moment to continue.
>>
No. 955641 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158104257405.png - (23.89KB , 800x800 , 1360.png )
955641

>"If he came to you, then... you know why I need to convince you to this with me."
"I know, Gahn."
>"So why th'hell'm I still doing it, hell you should be convincing me to do it just as much!"
"Why would I want to convince you?"
>"'Cause... wait a second. I was told I had to convince you to go help me kill Fen, or suffer the consequences. What'd he tell you?"
"Just to kill Fen."
>"Shit, I had to convince you on top of the killin'."
"Should just kill the damn noble, Gahn."
>"Awgh, fuck, Moss, if you're gonna say shit like that out loud, maybe we should just get a room. You don't think he's got some measures in place? Some kinda orders to his soldiers saying that if we go kill him, go slaughter everyone we ever had relations with?"
"I talked with a friend of a friend. That stone's a figurehead. He's hardly got the power of wood. I should've killed him when I had the chance."
>"Aw, shit, you fuckin' dumbass, you... you'd kill everyone we know. I hope you're not serious. Why'd I let you get drunk?"
"Because I had a feeling you'd bring up killing Fen."
>"Fuck's sake, Moss..."
>>
No. 955643 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158104264215.png - (19.58KB , 800x800 , 1361.png )
955643

>"You know I don't wanna kill the savage. He's a dangerous, paranoid fucker who's shit at conversation, but he's alright. And I know he's probably gonna stab us if we try to stab him, and goddamn if we wouldn't deserve it for trying, but we've gotta try. Even a figurehead noble can back up his threats. Or I dunno, maybe you don't have anyone special in your life anymore, but I... I know what I'm asking you to do Moss, but I got a family. Wife, brothers, hell even my mother's still kicking. My fuckin' kids, too goddamn good and honest for their own good, 'cause they sure have no fuckin idea how to run away and hide from wrathful stones. Please. Please, help me."

... Until now, I forgot that I was supposed to fake accepting this. Not that I want to.
>>
No. 955646 ID: 86eb65

"I know man I know. Its just the booze talking. We don't have any choice do we? Guess I am in."

(Where we supposed to just accept or make it look hard? Regardless go along with it and don't let him know you have Cheese doing stuff. Less people that know the better.)
>>
No. 955647 ID: 86eb65

Oh but do make sure to get a note off to Cheese as soon as you can to make sure she gets his family watched.
>>
No. 955648 ID: b1b4f3

>>955643
What chance is there this guy is lying? Any chance in hell? I don't think he's lying.
Tell him you got this under control. You very recently found out that if you HAD killed Sayanos when he came here, it would've been fine. Your status as palace guard is enough for Krix to push that under the rug, and nobody actually cares about Sayanos; they'll just replace him with someone more well behaved.
Right now, all he needs to do is to say he accomplished his mission. We've got four days to figure out either a way to get Sayanos off your backs or an ambush good enough to kill Fen. Now does he want to go talk in private? We need to know exactly how he was approached and what was said in that meeting. Also, does he have any friends with resources?
>>
No. 955651 ID: 015bf2

>>955643
...Alright, calm down buddy. ‘Lord’ Sayanos is a fuckhead and I’m venting, not throwing everyone’s lives to the dogs. What I really wanted was to make real clear that a) this will likely not end well so I hope you said lots if nice things to your fam before you left and b) give you the headsup Sayanos isn’t the bigshot he made himself out to be, with all that implies. Whatever resources are gonna be scrounged are probably gonna be slapdash, borrowed or random. Those ten to one odds waiting in ambush? Probably gonna be just mid-range fighters or sentimental idiots like the pair of us, with one or two surprise inclusions at best.

Fill in Gahn about Fen’s vague reports from Erja Nokol. Might help put him back at ease that you’re actively ‘helping’. Point out that the bar plan Gahn suggested is... definitely a no go. Since it already sounds like it happened, apparently. With undead. And they failed.
>>
No. 955653 ID: 094652

Tell him Sayanos screwed up a long time ago. The only reason the higher nobles haven't killed him is because the only thing his death would do is help the commoners, and they don't do anything solely to help the commoners.

Why does Krix need Fen dead, anyway? For a bundle of dragoncloth Fen has dedicated himself to paying every copper piece for? The kind of self-imbued debt that lasts ten lifetimes of constant warfare?
>>
No. 955655 ID: c2f1f6

Alright, look, this guy doesn't have the resources he says he has. If he did, he wouldn't be visiting the likes of the two of us in person. That means he doesn't- and by extension, we don't- have the resources to make this anything but a suicide mission. Don't go on it. I'll go along with it, you go to your family and make it count. Unless you hear elsewise, when I leave for Erja Nokol, you leave for somewhere far away from his influence. Do me a favor, make sure my ex-wife is safe too. Don't just throw your life away after mine.
>>
No. 955656 ID: c0ac66

"Gahn... look, I know we don't have a choice but to play along. You don't need to rub it in. I just wanted to complain about it, and maybe stretch my brain trying to think of some way out. I mean, come on, if half what I hear from Erja's true, they won't even let us near the place, and our best shot will be to get killed trying anyway and then hope Sayanos doesn't feel bothered enough following through on his threat to a couple of dead guys. If he has to hike out to kick a guy in the balls himself he probably doesn't have resources to waste on that kind of thing. So, there's plan... Z, because while I'll do it I hope to hell we can come up with something better. But I gotta know you'll be with me on the lookout for something better, just on the insane long-odds chance there might be something. That you're not just going to let some... hopped-up punk who's had a rock tossed at him scare you into doing anything he says without using your brain. I had a mithril put me here, Gahn. We could be pissing off a noble no matter what we do. We have to keep our eyes open if we want to know which one, how mad we're making them and how big they are. There's stuff going on around this we're not seeing yet, I'm sure of it."
>>
No. 955657 ID: bb78f2

Yeah, listen, we're gonna go, but I didn't want to surprise you too much about what we're actually undertaking, and to inform you of how much of a shit noble that bastard really is. Our odds of success are insanely low, so our loved ones are right fucked already if the threat is real, sorry to say. Now I know we gotta try for now, but keep lookin' for a real way out of this mess we're in.

Stupid Noble's game we're playing is all. Doubt they even really want Fen dead, they just want a damn distraction in the zombie swamp, I swear. Thing is that stone noble's came up with this stupid plan to get it done, so they had to go and involve us. I doubt we'll even have the resources the noble said we'd get, since he can't afford a damn messenger himself. Dude's a fucking stooge doing his own damn work. I bet you we see his ass again, wielding a fucking toy sword and says he's our only backup we're getting. Then he'll say "Leave it to me, I got this, I'll kill Fen myself," then get his own ass killed by the Red Maw in front of us.
>>
No. 955662 ID: c0ac66

You know, this whole "get a guy's friends to betray him" seems like a tactic the empire wouldn't approve of. Like, regular assassination, sure, just superior strength or skill or strategy or something, but this dirty backstabbing blackmail stuff seems like it'd be at least a social embarrassment for nobles to indulge in. Maybe not, but it could be something Sayanos would want to keep quiet. Maybe another reason he did things himself? Ask Gahn if he dealt with Sayanos personally too, and if he had anything with him.

Aside that... tt just occurred to me, the argument of Zizi looking for revenge - escape is plausible for common folk, but nobles are public figures. They'd have to either give up their position or just accept being visible targets if they wanted to escape that sort of thing. I know Zizi has this sort of "it's Fen's life he can die if he does it doing what he really wants" thing, but would that extend to things like "Fen can't even make friends because of asshole nobles"? That's just a dick move, and seems like something Zizi would disapprove of. Either way, Sayanos doesn't know Zizi's attitudes. A "hey don't threaten my brother's friends just to get a cheap shot on him, or else" threat quote "from Zizi" unquote might persuade him to call this stuff off. Fen probably wouldn't choose to lean on his brother's name that way, but, well, Fen's not the one making the decision, right?

Cheese would be the one to pull that sort of thing off, though. Maybe you can leave her a message with that suggestion. You'll probably end up with a few things to say to her, Moss.
>>
No. 955667 ID: c82ba6

Tell him you two are going to fake acceptance while your contact outmaneuvers Sayanos. Start making visible preparations to leave for Erja Nokol and head to Graskin for the warp.
>>
No. 955668 ID: 10c408

>>955662
Um. First of all I can count the number of nobles that we know are friendly to Fen on one hand. (Lily and Gauche) None of them are in a position to deal with Sayanos. I can do the same for the numbers we know that are in a position to effectively end Sayanos and his scheme with quick orders but only of them is even available and may not actually care about it whatsoever. (Krix and Apanya)

Secondly... The shroomleaf barbarians don't have a mail system. And threatening Sayanos with telling Zizi is a laughable idea and still doesn't stop Sayanos' agents (which is most of the problem) or whoever is backing him.
>>
No. 955672 ID: 1ed92d

>>955643
Accept, begrudgingly.

"Alright, we can go try. Miracle of miracles, we might actually kill him. Then all we need to do is escape Erja Nokol and everyone in there who might want to kill us, without a guide, during the lockdown."

Be quite sour about it, but go along with it for the time being.
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No. 955676 ID: 3674e7

What’s stopping this noble from having already killed all your loved ones then removing all access to finding out before the mission starts to remove all lose ends. If he has done this all he needs to do is have an assassin waiting instead of your loved ones when you finish then he can kill you and no one is the wiser about his plot.
>>
No. 955681 ID: 10c408

>>955676
I'm sorry but

what? Sayanos is just a jumpstart stone noble (only one rank above the lowest) who's only had the title for 60 days and hasn't realized that trying to punch things above his weight class will only ensure that he comes down with a serious case of the shivs.

And so far, the only thing major character trait is his ego and not general insanity. If not for whoever is backing him and mucking things up with the crows, he wouldn't even be part of this major problem for Cheese who has far more personal power, agents and experience than he does.
>>
No. 955682 ID: 91ee5f

>>955668
>The shroomleaf barbarians don't have a mail system.
Yes they do. How else do you think Fen and Zizi have been sending letters to each other?
>>
No. 955684 ID: dbd72b

Cheese is putting eyes on all your friends, Moss, so offer it to Gahn, too. Dunno if he can fight, or if he's clever enough, but he's your friend. Those are gonna get real precious in the work you'll have to do pretty soon.
Sayanos is irrational, and very prone to anger if that kick and those threats are anything to go by. The family's as good as dead if you try and fail to kill Fen, for spite if nothing else.
So it's Cheese's agents and Killing Sayanos, or killing Fen. Which is harder to kill, a war hero who's survived real assassination attempts? or the spare of the man he killed, who can't even afford to have a message delivered? Keep in mind that Sayanos can be lured out, while Fen will almost certainly have an army around him, who will protect him out of duty if nothing else.
Let Gahn know you have loved ones to lose, too. And it'll be hard to pull this off. But you've got a professional string puller who's dragged down bigger prey before, and you're the palace guard of a much bigger noble, who has no respect for guys like Sayanos.
You've got this. He just has to trust you.
>>
No. 955694 ID: e2f5cc

>>955643
"...Yeah. Not exactly how I wanted to spend my Sunday either. But we don't really have have much of a choice in the matter, so lets just focus on what we have to do and who we're protecting by doing it."

Say nothing about your ulterior motives/knowledge to Gahn. While he seems like a stand up guy, he also seems to be as good a liar as Fen is a talker.
>>
No. 955695 ID: 833c22

We are going to have to play along for now, the first chance we get to kill Sayanos, we yank him and get the hell out of dodge.
>>
No. 955698 ID: ce39da

"I know it's pretty hopeless, but you gotta understand, it's not just Fen. That barbarian has dangerous friends, too. I heard there was a moratorium on his bounty backed up by none other than Sir Zall himself, and also... fuck, can you imagine Cheese on the warpath, if she actually got serious? We also speculated that allies to the Necromancers we're fighting down there are the ones behind this; that launches our mission into high treason territory, and that's when Dragon Knights get involved... I can't help but wonder if our loved ones have a worse chance of surviving this if we do go through with it, especially if our own boss wants to tie up loose ends after we're too dead to care... But yeah, I see where you're coming from. I... I'll agree to do it, for now, and we can try to figure something out along the way. Let's try to talk about something else now."
>>
No. 955699 ID: a9af05

>>955643
We already told him that we wanted to kill Sayanos, let's make sure that we don't tell him anything else.

Don't mention anything about Cheese or her friends that're supposed to be helping you.

If he believes his family's saftey is being threatened, he will not hesitate to tell Sayanos and his men what you and Cheese are planning!
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No. 955705 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158110598542.png - (28.12KB , 800x800 , 1362.png )
955705

I wish the big sap was lying, but he's not. He does have a family and he does care for them.

"Let's get a room."

There's an inn attached to the palace, and by the time I grab us a room, Gahn's recollected his composure.

"Gahn, I might've been more easily convinced more if Sayanos said all we had to do was try, but succeed? We'd have better luck hunting and killing him and every soldier he had."

He starts to protest, but I cut him off.

"I've kept contact with Fen. I have his letters. He hasn't kept me up to date on specifics, but the guy's probably got more resources than Sayanos. His squadmate runs a tavern that he only leaves to go train with a grand knight!"
>"The hell's a grand knight?! I don't keep up with military ranks!"
"Campaign leader! The only way I'm agreeing to this idiot mission is faking it to buy us time."
>"Time to do what?!"
"Move our families, get people to protect them, and all that. I'm not going to let Sayanos kill our friends and family, because as it happens, I do somehow still have people I care about.."
>"Oh, well consider me relieved then! I didn't know that all this time, Sir Sayanos needed your permission!"
>>
No. 955706 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158110599174.png - (16.59KB , 800x800 , 1363.png )
955706

Gahn flops down on the bed.

>"You're serious aren't you." He mumbles into the pillow.
"I am."

Gahn remains silent. I think he's fallen asleep.

>"Fine." He proves me wrong. "We'll fake it. If you can promise me you're not just blowing hot air outta desperation. How're you gonna protect my family?"
"I've got help."
>"What help?"
"The kind of help I don't want your loud mouth to know about."
>"... whatever. I don't gotta choice. I'll tell Sir Sayanos you accepted. Now lemme sleep this off and pretend tomorrow's gonna be better."
>>
No. 955707 ID: 86eb65

Give him a pat on the back and then we need to get Cheese a very carefully worded update letter so that if it does get found no one can get much info off it.

Anything else Cheese wanted us to do? Cause if we got it all done you need to go train. Only personal power will see you thru this if things go wrong.
>>
No. 955708 ID: e71e16

Ask him if he blabbed about the operation to anyone.
>>
No. 955709 ID: e2f5cc

Well, not much to do now other than follow Gahn's lead, unless you have to go back and do your job, since going to the drop off point now would just be suspicious.

Tomorrow though you'll probably be forgotten enough again to disappear for a little bit. Also, don't forget to tease Nawm about basically asking you out (and maybe take her up on it?) so you have something to look forward to.
>>
No. 955711 ID: 83bf07

Let's get some rest. We might want to try to aim to be awake before him.
>>
No. 955714 ID: c2f1f6

I'll find a way Gahn. I'll never ask you to trust me again, just this one time.

Two more things I can think of; one- write to your wife. Something brief like "I don't know what to tell you. You know about the threats of this job, I'm doing my best to manage it. no sign off, -Moss"

Two- Try to contact lord Krix or one of his subordinates directly. Go over your captain or warden's head or whatever, because you're Moss the upstanding guard, not Moss the plant with friends in low places. If this is some kind of test, you want to act predictably, and Cheese said getting into Krix's good graces would be beneficial.
>>
No. 955715 ID: afdebc

>>955706
I'm not gonna hang you out to dry. You know that right, Gahn? This whole thing sucks, but we're gonna do what we can to get the people we care about through this.
>>
No. 955717 ID: 10c408

>>955708
He did. It's how Cheese found out about this whole thing. And then told Moss when they talked, who has just actually called him a loudmouth about it!

If he loses his nerve and starts babbling again then we've got an even bigger problem.

>>955714
Moss isn't married at the moment, he has an ex-wife that he hasn't talked to in forever for reasons we're not aware of.

As for what to do... Reassure Gahn that as palace guard to warlord krix, an individual holding a gold noble title, you have more political power than a stone noble who's only had the the title for a mere two months.

if he presses you on details, just sandbag him.
>>
No. 955722 ID: e71e16

>>955717
Gahn blabbed to Cheese, but he doesn't know Cheese told Moss. I think Moss could pile on a little more defeatism with a "You blabbed to Cheese of all people? As in 'obvious crush on Fen' Cheese?"
>>
No. 955724 ID: b1b4f3

>>955708
Yes, this. Because:
1, it's best to feign ignorance about information we got from Cheese
2, we need to know who he was talking to that got his mouth flapping.
>>
No. 955727 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158111724451.png - (14.02KB , 800x800 , 1364.png )
955727

"I'm not going to leave you to Sayanos' plans either, Gahn. You know that? I may not be a noble, but I've got some clout under Lord Krix."

He makes some muffled grunt through the pillow.

"Did you blabber to people about this anyway?"
>"Feck off."

I won't push him farther, so I'm left to my own thoughts. I'm starting to think I should've kept up on my martial skills. Figured I'd get killed for slacking off one day, but I thought I was done with getting others killed for my lack of skill.

I should've wrote a letter to my ex wife to send to her through Cheese. I don't have a reliable way now that my mail's apparently getting tampered with. There are lots of things I should've done, and I'm trying to think of what I should be doing right now, but my head...
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No. 955728 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158111725635.png - (19.29KB , 1000x800 , 1365.png )
955728

Damn it I fell asleep. It's already daybreak, but only just so, so I'm not late for work.

... is that a dagger next to me?

"Gahn - "

He's gone.
>>
No. 955729 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158111726581.png - (29.06KB , 1000x800 , 1366.png )
955729

I look around some to figure out what happened, but all I can tell is that Gahn is gone and a dagger was put by my head. I'm not figuring anything out, so I pocket the knife, check out of the inn, leave a good tip, and go to work.

Nawm, true to her word, gives me some food.

>"Made it myself."
"This is... overcooked."
>"Should've just had me pay for a cook like I said I would! And like I did for myself, so you can have this failure of a sandwich."
"Cooking's not hard, Nawm! How did you overcook the bread but undercook the meat? Is this even safe to eat?"
>"You can teach me how to do it someday if you care so bad."
"As long as you don't tell everyone else I'm 'good' at cooking."
>"Yeah, you'd be made to cook for everyone."

She lets me eat.

"You can just ask me on a date if you want, Nawm."
>"Well I'm not asking, am I? Besides, you got a date already. That 'mail man' is back to see you again."
"Huh?!"
>"Yeah. Same room as before. Do your best not to get your nuts kicked in, this time."
>>
No. 955730 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158111733775.png - (23.79KB , 800x800 , 1367.png )
955730

I stuff the sandwich in my mouth and go meet him. Sure enough, Sir Sayanos is waiting.

>"I've been told you've accepted. Good. However, your lack of self confidence and not knowing exactly what resources you have at your disposal is a concern. Since I wish to know what is planned anyway, and because of the importance of what we are doing, it was advised I come personally to visit you. Somehow, I doubt your concerns have vanished, so shut the door and we will begin talk."

He's alone.

Cheese has hardly had a day since I came to her for help. This seems too fast.
>>
No. 955731 ID: 465a14

Okay, I don't want to figure out however many layers of intrigue are going on here. Just kill him and keep stabbing until we make a new problem that eclipses whatever was going on before. Should make things simpler to keep track of.
>>
No. 955736 ID: 3ce8ff

>>955730
Cheese works fast. Even if this WASN'T Cheese I'm not sure you are likely to get a better opportunity. You do still have that dagger right?
>>
No. 955738 ID: afdebc

>>955728
Is Ghan prone to dramatic gestures? Could he be sending you some kind of message? ...does the knife look like one Ghan had on him, or could have had on him, or is it too nice for that?

>>955729
>How did you overcook the bread but undercook the meat?
Either she started frying / toasting the bread before making the sandwich, or the meat started out frozen. And she didn't thaw it before throwing it in the sandwich and cooking the whole thing. Assuming lowly guards probably don't get nice iceboxes or magic devices for keeping food cool, probably the former.

Honestly she's probably happy to give it to you bad if that encourages you to make better stuff for the two of you, or to show her how to make good stuff.

>>955730
...did someone leave you the dagger for this?

Maybe try to feel this out, string him along. Ask questions to stall for time while we try to figure out if this is a trap or if you can kill him, or just to maneuver into a better position to get the jump on him / get him to let his guard down.

"Didn't realize I merited so much of a noble's attention. All right, so what resources are you offering?"
>>
No. 955739 ID: b1b4f3

>>955729
I think Gahn may have had orders to kill you if you didn't accept... but he didn't go through with it. If that was a threat by Sayanos it would've been easier to understand, I think.

>>955730
Shut the door, begin talk. Find out as much as you can while feigning cooperation, then press him for more details past that point. Like who told him to come here personally, and who else he's working with. Draw sword and disarm him once he stops cooperating- wait a minute he's not even ARMED this time?! Maybe you can just beat the shit out of him, but keeping a sword to his throat might be best. DO kick him in the nuts as soon as you get the chance. Make sure he knows nobody do anything to you if he dies by your hand, and that whoever put him here wants that to happen.
>>
No. 955741 ID: 10c408

Shut the door behind you without turning your back to him. If he asks why you are so twitchy remind him he attacked you for your inadvertent disrespect.

Try and see if you can spot anything in his left hand he's obscuring intentionally by moving elsewhere in the room and keeping your gaze low to the ground towards his feet so you can look between his legs as well.

If he's got nothing on him, let him talk but if you see anything metallic then he's going to kill you the first chance he gets with the blade he's probably hiding.
>>
No. 955742 ID: 833c22

Let him talk, lets make him tell us all taht we should need to know. Then we decide if we can kill him or not. Should have check the rest of the building to see if he came with company.
>>
No. 955744 ID: 1ed92d

>>955730
Try to get him to look somewhere else, then knife him.

Sure, it might be a trap, but fuck it. Killing this idiot might reveal the actual threat.
>>
No. 955745 ID: bb78f2

>>955730
It's... its been advised?
Bullshit, you're working for somebody, necromancers or whatever, and they just want a distraction. I know what you are, noble. You're a trash stooge with no clout. The real threat is the man behind you, and you pointed ME to him, you're my inconvenience.

What kind of noble delivers his own messages? You're pathetic.

Goad that motherfucker into a fight first, make him go for that kick again, or something, and chop his leg off. Don't let him think.
>>
No. 955747 ID: c0ac66

Might as well try to lull him, and get some information out of him for a moment before you kill him. Knowing what resources he has to put at your disposal would give you clues as to what he's got backing him. And "It was advised", huh? Make a show of checking for eavesdroppers as you close the door.

Ok, I assume you've been paying attention to the Erja situation, so you know they've quarantined the place, right? Only established, experienced army members get in, and they can't leave without being expressly permitted by their commanders. Ask him if he has pull to get Fen that permission from someone. Also ask what kind of guys he's sending with you, find out if they're skilled enough for you to train with a bit along the way there since you're rusty, and if the conversation turns to the idea of sneaking in, ask him to draw you a general layout of the place in the dust on that ledge or something, see what he knows. That could also get his back turned, conveniently.
>>
No. 955751 ID: c0ac66

... You know, it'd sure be convenient if he "accidentally" got too close to the prisoners somehow.
>>
No. 955752 ID: e2f5cc

Moss, man, you were oh so conveniently gifted a nice, concealable murder weapon when waking up and are also mysteriously deprived of the only ally it would be reasonable to bring, one shown to be not at all cut out for this and loving his family above all else, including you, that you told to just kill the guy threatening his family.

And now, Sayanos just happens to to take a personal interest in your success, yet also not care about the fact you're looking right at him, topping it all off by asking you to close the door, something you'd presumably have to turn your back to him to perform.

The jig's up, and you gotta get the hell outta dodge, preferably when you're "closing the door". As much as I'd love to kill him, this both goes much deeper than him and it's been established in the bar that Sayanos has allies here, and I don't think it much of a stretch to say he likes safety in numbers. The good thing is though is when you get to your fellow guards saying that Krix will reward the killing of those who disrespect his guards should be enough to turn things in your favor, and then cover enough for the day, but after that you'll need to run again from his aforementioned allies, as evidenced by the dagger you woke up next to. Maybe see if Nawm feels like doing something dumb and come with you, with the promise you'll make her lunches for as long as she wants.
>>
No. 955754 ID: 86eb65

He is going to stab you if you turn your back to close the door.

Just kill him now. You have a fresh mystery knife to throw on the body (wait would that implicate your friend?) and your hand on your sword. Just do it now and let this be done with.
>>
No. 955755 ID: c2f1f6

Close the door as he said, don't turn your back while you do it.

You can stab him whenever, just let him talk first. What does he mean 'been advised'?
>>
No. 955756 ID: 30e062

Divest this gentleman of his ability to bother you or the people you know.
>>
No. 955757 ID: 91ee5f

>>955730
>Cheese has hardly had a day since I came to her for help. This seems too fast.
Let’s be honest, you don’t know Cheese all that well. For all you know, she could’ve gotten this done yesterday, but the lack of crows pushed it back to today.

Just close the door without turning your back to him. Then kill him after you kick him in the nuts.

Also, he’s always been described as a mailman. If anyone asks, you can just pass it off as that, you killed the messenger for bringing you some news you didn’t like.
>>
No. 955758 ID: e7848c

>>955730
Say goodbye to your peace.
Again.
>>
No. 955759 ID: 75ea94

Fuckit well worry about the repercussions later, but first, let's get some payback for your sack!
Close the door and start talking with him, when you get close enough, Kick him in his coin purse, then proceed by furiously stabbing him tell there are more holes in him than a block of swiss cheese.
>>
No. 955760 ID: c2f1f6

Actually wait up before you do anything, ask why he sent Gahn at all if you already agreed to go through with it.
>>
No. 955764 ID: 015bf2

Pity the fool, but pump him for information before you stab his ghoulies. Don't turn your back to him.

"Arright, Lord. As you know, I've got a several concerns. Red Maw is in a quarantine zone last I heard, and he's surrounded by military allies. He's paranoid enough to watch out for himself, and just asking to meet him somewhere private for a chat probably isn't gonna cut it unless it's done at very favorable terms for him. I suppose we could try poison, but there's wizards around who might cure that.

Not to mention, Erja Nokol's not your home turf and I don't recall Lord Rasyan being big there either. What kind of assets can you even pull out there?"

Could Sayanos be being set up for a stabbin' by whoever's manipulating him? He's being *way* too accessible for you.

If he does attack you, confront him with the fact (or idea) this is a setup and that he's been played. See if you can pump him for information still. But obviously, defend yourself with everything you've got and if he gives you the excuse and the opportunity, shank him dead.

Hm. Actually, if he's a shit fighter you can shank him so he's so wounded you can interrogate him.
>>
No. 955765 ID: 5a2e34

Prepare for the possibility Gahn snitched and now this guy is about to try and kill you, but don't tip your hand until you are absolutely sure.
>>
No. 955767 ID: 91ee5f

>>955751
As fun as that would be, we’re not in the correct section of the building to do that.
>>
No. 955768 ID: ce39da

After you get any other lingering questions out of the way:
"Remind me what the plan was supposed to be?" Motion for him to stand up like you're about to give a demonstration. "I walk up to him like 'ey, you can trust me,' and..." Kick him in the nuts, then stick him in the back with the knife while grabbing his snout shut with your other hand to keep him from yelling. (If you can free up the knife hand after that, wrap it around in a bear hug so he can't move to grab a weapon off himself.) "Stick him in the back like this? Shit, it's no wonder you thought that would work; you were using yourself as reference."
>>
No. 955792 ID: e71e16

If he actually tries to stab you and you successfully counter him, just before he expires, ask him if he really thought he could kill the guy whom he thought could kill Fen.
>>
No. 955814 ID: dbd72b

Don't think it was Cheese, but looks like you have an opportunity. Shut door, insult a bit so he actually tries to punish you again, insert knife.

Whatever happens, it needs to actually be self defense, or close enough to it (truth wizards). He needs you too much, so he won't really hurt you until he sees you go for it. He doesn't need to hit, but he needs to be swinging. Getting wounded during this would actually help your case, but try not to, for obvious reasons.
>>
No. 955843 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158122926949.png - (27.12KB , 800x800 , 1368.png )
955843

I can feel the dagger where I placed it under my robe. If it was left for me... first of all, the grip is for people with Gahn sized fists, I have a guard sword which I have on me, and whoever left it for me didn't need to stab the bed about it.

No, the only idea I can think of is that Gahn thought, or was told, that he could get out of this if he killed me. If that's right, the poor sap didn't tell me about it, but couldn't go through with it either. He sure as hell must of thought of it if he stabbed the bed.

I sure sleep like a damn log, but I don't need to be dense while awake, so I keep facing Sayanos as I shut the door.

"You were advised?"
>"Hm? Yes, advised by my advisors, we nobles have those. You look nervous. If this is about how our last meeting ended, it need not end that way again. Just mind your tone, and your eyes."

Great, I forgot to lose the eye contact, but that gives me the perfect excuse to look down now. He doesn't have his walking stick or whatever that was with him. He has nothing in his hands I can see, but his robes are loose enough to conceal daggers. His crotch is especially obscured by his robe. For all I know he thinks I'm going to return the favor and prepared himself with a codpiece, and I'd just knee a solid chunk of iron. Hell, for all I know that codpiece would have a spike pointed where a blow would come from.

... I just got the mental image of myself kicking my own foot through a spike, falling over from it, and having him beat the hell out of me for it.

If this is what having paranoid thoughts is like, no wonder that poor barbarian savage never smiled.
>>
No. 955844 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158122934178.png - (20.56KB , 800x800 , 1369.png )
955844

I talk to him, first. I look at layers of intrigue hardly any better than Gahn does, but it may not hurt to see if he doesn't explain any more. He doesn't seem to give specifics.

"How many men, how much money?"
>"Over 200 men, 10 of which are highly skilled. More than 400 silver is doable, but by that point, I'd highly suspect how such funds would be used."
"And you know Erja Nokol is under quarantine?"
>"That quarantine has been called into question of late. There are ways around it. Sir Zall's rule is not uncontested."
"Contested enough, Sayanos." The words are unintentionally spat to him. He noticed that.
>>
No. 955845 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158122936224.png - (21.37KB , 800x800 , 1370.png )
955845

... He noticed the lack of 'Sir', I think. That or how I spat the words out.

Stay calm.

He puts my hand on my shoulder.

>"Moss."
"What?"
>"You don't learn, do you?"
>>
No. 955846 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158122938837.png - (19.85KB , 800x800 , 1371.png )
955846

thnkch
>>
No. 955847 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158122940643.png - (36.32KB , 800x800 , 1372.png )
955847

>"AHHHHHHHH!!!"

He's loud! Should've just stabbed him instead of letting him get close in the first place, but the idiot didn't even look down before putting his knee through the knife!
>>
No. 955848 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158122944023.png - (32.50KB , 800x800 , 1373.png )
955848

I grab his ear to make the following cut through his throat sufficiently deep. This isn't how I thought it was going to happen, but it's happening.

Stay calm.
>>
No. 955850 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158122949402.png - (32.84KB , 1000x800 , 1374.png )
955850

The ramifications of what I've are going to happen, and the worst is that I die in a trap right now. And then everyone I care about dies later. At least I'll see them again in some sense, but right now I'd better look at them face on. No use in a panic now!

Stay calm.

I hear footsteps running over here. The ramifications must already be starting.

>"What's going on in - " The captain himself comes running in. "What... Moss, what've you done?!"
"Bastard attacked me."
>"... You killed - because - No. Drop your weapons and walk yourself into a cell. Now!"
>>
No. 955851 ID: afdebc

>>955850
Do what the Captain says. You're not Fen, you're not equipped to fight your way out of an entire fortress the hard way. Only way you have to hopefully survive is to hope that Cheese is right, and play within the rules.
>>
No. 955852 ID: b1b4f3

>>955850
Well I mean he also threatened to kill my friends and family and every casual acquaintance I ever had if I didn't go on a suicide mission.
But yeah sure, you're the boss.
Just pick an empty cell. No need to hand yourself over to the prisoners. Remember, they will find out the truth of the matter.

>200 men, 10 highly skilled
Hmm that might have actually worked, if they were let into the camp at all. They wouldn't have been let in, of course. "hardly uncontested" is one thing, sneaking 200 people past him is another.
>>
No. 955853 ID: 0fb3be

Yeahh, do what he says.
>>
No. 955854 ID: 86eb65

Wipe your dagger and put it away. Don't drop your weapons. You have more power here than you think. Just be polite and reasonable and defend yourself if you have to. After all it would be better to die on your own terms than get near those prisoners.

"I will hand myself in to Nawm and be in the guardhouse. Let me know when Lord Krix wants to see me."

Then go "surrender" to Nawm.
>>
No. 955855 ID: 789ce3

Don't disarm yourself and don't get near cells with prisoners.

Just tell him you will go report to Krix personally to explain.
>>
No. 955856 ID: 10c408

"No. I will go and face Warlord krix's judgement for my actions and no one else's. Especially yours."

If this statement is enough to provoke him into drawing his blade, get yours out as well and defend yourself WITHOUT killing him.
>>
No. 955857 ID: 10c408

>>955851
>>955853
Goodness sake no. Sayanos had to bribe this schmuck to get around Krix's chain of command since Krix is Moss's boss's boss. And the penultimate authority of the region above Sayanos and below lady apanya.

The prisoners WILL rip Moss asunder in a heartbeat and dispose of the evidence for the warden here.
>>
No. 955858 ID: bb78f2

>>955850
He's nobody Captain, we can't have shits like this coming into Warlord Krix's palace and starting shit.

This kind of subterfuge is uncalled for in these lands, and this man was trash.
>>
No. 955859 ID: 91ee5f

>>955850
Remember what Cheese told you: As a palace guard, you’re allowed to kill Sayanos.

Your captain is a tool that just does what he's told by anyone with rank. The warden will give you a slap on the wrist, your captain will sweat a bit. If Lord Krix gets news of this, he’ll give you a pat on the back! And you do want that, if you can stomach the endorsement from Lord Krix himself.

And if you want to get on his good side, refer to him as Warlord Krix.

>>955852
>Well I mean he also threatened to kill my friends and family and every casual acquaintance I ever had if I didn't go on a suicide mission.
I think saying, “Including you.” to the captain would let him know that he was also being threatened.

I doubt that would make a difference, but I’d like to say that to him.
>>
No. 955863 ID: b1b4f3

I'd suggest not calling Krix Warlord Krix until Moss finds out from someone other than Cheese that it's a good idea.
He could actively try to find out how to get on Lord Krix's good side, though. After this, he kindof has a reason to!
>>
No. 955864 ID: 015bf2

Stay cool as fucking ice. It’s no accident the captain was so close. You might be able to use that.

>>955850
Sir. Can you explain to me why the mayor of Pocktown would make the mistaken presumption that he could come in here and start ordering around, then attacking, palace personell he clearly has no authority over?

Because it seems to me that is somewhat out of line. And that there should ideally exist an explanation that does not involve you accepting any incentives to let him do so.

I’d suggest you share this reason with me, so I can inform anyone who asks precisely why Pocktown is in the market for a new, less dumbass noble, seeing as their current one just tragically walked himself into a knife.

Unless you’d like the credit for setting him up to do so. In which case, well done, sir.
>>
No. 955865 ID: 91ee5f

>>955859
I’d like to run this by everyone to see if it would be good to say.

“Who would Lord Krix look at favorably in this situation? You, the guy that took a bribe and let this trash in the palace? Or me, the guy that took out the trash before he could make a bigger mess?”

What do you guys think?

>>955863
You’re probably right. Let’s just stick to calling him Lord Krix.

>>955864
I’m not sure. That might work.
>>
No. 955868 ID: e71e16

>>955863
Moss may have had ample time to find that out before Cheese mentioned it, though.
>>
No. 955872 ID: b1b4f3

If we're complaining about all the shitty things he did, let's not forget how he was reading your mail.
>>
No. 955873 ID: 10c408

>>955865
If we say that to him he's going to try and kill us, then shove the corpse against the bars and let the prisoners dispose of the body.

Our best play here is to either somehow escape and take refuge with cheese long enough to get to Krix OR if escape is off the table entirely be as loud and defensive as possibly so that Moss's crimes take him directly to Krix and away from this stooge.
>>
No. 955878 ID: e71e16

>>955873
>If we say that to him he's going to try and kill us, then shove the corpse against the bars and let the prisoners dispose of the body.
How about we veil the threat a bit more then? "He's nobody, or he wouldn't have needed to bribe you to poach me from his liege. Or maybe he didn't bribe you because he actually never came down here?"
>>
No. 955880 ID: 567477

Confidence is your key, here. Krix is the one in charge here, you're one of his guys, and a stone noble coming in out of nowhere paying no respect is not in his rights. The Empire respects chain of command, and chain of command means you do not bypass someone to give orders to their men directly. The proper way would have been for Sayanos to humbly petition Krix to request your services. Not doing that is an insult to Krix, which you graciously let him off of once because he was new.

That's your story. And to go along with that, you need to be obedient to Krix's authorities. Ok?
>>
No. 955885 ID: 10c408

>>955878
Okay. Telling him the corpse we're standing over, while also still holding the bloody murder weapon (literally dripping, even!), is not going to fly unless the warden gets hammered during his shifts without anyone knowing.

Secondly, he got here extremely quickly and has been bribed once before, if not twice. Threatening him is not going to work since he's already clearly stated that even the highly abuse-able imperial law doesn't mean shit to him and we should go park ourselves in a cell since he's both judge and jury all of a sudden.
>>
No. 955886 ID: 864e49

"okay but you're gonna have to get someone to cover my shift. Here hold this."
Then casually toss the knife to him and either walk into an empty single room cell without closing the door or if you think you can get away with it tell him you'll go turn yourself into Lord Krix personally.
>>
No. 955895 ID: 1ed92d

>>955850
Drop your weapons and make sure to step on Sayanos's neck as you leave. Don't want someone bringing him back from the brink of death.
>>
No. 955897 ID: a9af05

>>955850
"Last time I checked, we're supposed to be palace guards that only take orders from Lord Krix, not this guy's personal errands boys. He was trying to order me around and wouldn't tell me if the orders came from Lord Krix, so I refused to do what he said."
>>
No. 955898 ID: c2f1f6

Promise me you'll get someone higher up the hierarchy on this immediately. I have to explain my actions.

Drop the knife and hope Cheese better have been right.
>>
No. 955902 ID: afdebc

>Don't call Krix a Warlord
It's not an affectation, Warlord is literally his title. There's nothing wrong with using it, and everyone who works for him would know his title.

Lord or Lady are the most common title we've seen, but we've also seen several Sirs (Gauche, Tawns, and of course Zall), and Krix as the only Warlord so far. Title doesn't seem to correspond to mithril/gold/stone/wood rank, as those run the gamut. We've also seen the rare case of a wizard stone noble (Hunstine) who didn't seem to bother with a title at all (and it doesn't seem to just be a rule that wizards don't use titles, since Cassa is a Lady).

Tl;dr we don't know the full context or significance of the titles the northern kobold peerage use.
>>
No. 955906 ID: e71e16

>Tl;dr we don't know the full context or significance of the titles the northern kobold peerage use.
+1, and Moss probably knows more than us.
>>
No. 955910 ID: 465a14

We've been explicitly told that Krix prefers Warlord to Lord, so on that front Moss knows as much as we do.
>>
No. 955925 ID: 60d648

“Like hell i will, if you want to be the one to tell lord krix that you’re just letting any old dumbass do what they want to his guards then be my guest but i’m not going to deal with this kind of bullshit on top of my job.”
>>
No. 956031 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158148070242.png - (27.03KB , 800x800 , 1375.png )
956031

"He's nobody. Why would Pocktown's mayor think he could come in here, order us around, and attack us?"
>"Because I told him he could do as he wanted, down here. I don't know why he attacked you, and I don't care."
"Bring Warlord Krix to me, then."

The captain walks deeper into the room and starts pulling his blade out, leaving just enough room so that I would be walking out in while in his sword's range. He stops just as the tip of the sword rests at the opening of his scabbard.

>"Either get in a cell and make your case to the warden, or fight us and make your case to the prisoners."

If he was forcing me to join the public prisoner cells, then I'd fight tooth and nail just to die by the sword as soon as thinking I could make it out. But since he's giving me the choice of cell, he's not sentencing me to death. At least not immediately. He also said the warden, so it isn't a decision the captain will make on his own.
>>
No. 956033 ID: e2f5cc

Seems like the sensible thing to do right now is head to a cell, preferably one in sprinting distance to other guards in case someone tries to gak you, but also far away enough from the prisoners that you can at least tune out them yelling about the things they'll supposedly do to your mother.
>>
No. 956034 ID: 86eb65

Fair point. You are not strong enough to even consider fighting your way out of here. Getting locked up alone was inevitable.

As long as you get a cell away from the rabble its the best we can hope for.

"Just making sure you were not sending me to them first. The Warden is preferable."

Then disarm and get into the best cell you know of. And make sure to wave a bloody paw at Nawm and Gahn if you see them.
>>
No. 956038 ID: 015bf2

Sir, with all due respect, we would not be in this situation if you were not so careless as to let some nobody noble wander unsupervised into the dungeons under false pretense and give him the mistaken impression that the guards are his to use and abuse.

And if he did have that authority, I question why I wasn’t informed. Just as much as I question why you were hanging about nearby, as if you’d escorted them down here and was conveniently waiting out of earshot so you could say you weren’t involved.

Don’t pretend these are favors done lightly. If you didn’t want the pain in the neck you should have reacted way earlier and taken any number of reasonable steps; denied Sayanos entrance, given him escorts, given me exact orders.

Instead you were either a coward or complicit to this mess. Am I wrong?

(Be ready to defend yourself.)
>>
No. 956044 ID: b1b4f3

>>956031
Go in the cell and stop disobeying your captain. You got him to say that he gave Sayanos permission to do whatever he wanted, which was stupid and he's gonna get fired for it. That's enough.
>>
No. 956048 ID: 10c408

>>956044
Do you honestly believe that this corrupt asshole won't just kill us after admitting his laundry list of crimes to our face?

Play along with this schmo, but be prepared to fight or flee at a moment's notice.
>>
No. 956049 ID: 91ee5f

>>956031
“You probably want to get this over with as soon as possible, right? So instead of walking me to a cell, why don’t we both go see the warden right now?”

>>956044
I think it’s funny that you think he’s only going to be fired.

He’s probably going to get something worse than that.
>>
No. 956051 ID: b1b4f3

>>956048
He can't. A truth wizard will most likely be involved here.
>>
No. 956053 ID: 51fd91

Go in the cell, but don't disarm yourself.
>>
No. 956056 ID: 10c408

>>956051
Your absolute faith in the empire's legal system is most disturbing to me.

It'd be an absolutely open and shut case for the courts if Moss is dead and the captain here sticks to his story. YES a wizard COULD prove he's a lying sack of shit but even if it was established that he killed Moss in cold blood? Oh no, he killed someone that killed a noble whatever shall we dooo.

And that's assuming a wizard even gets assigned to proving the truth of his statements in the first place.
>>
No. 956066 ID: dbd72b

Play along. but do not disarm without being ordered. We knew going into this that the captain was a jackass about this, so we'll have to hope the warden gets it.

Is Sayanos still moving? If so you might delay for a few seconds, if you can safely. This goes much worse for you if he isn't fully dead. But absolutely don't do any coup de grace. It'll start a fight, and attacking the captain right now isn't an option.
>>
No. 956069 ID: 48ce40

Play along, don't turn your back.
>>
No. 956073 ID: d8722f

Here? This empire? Might makes right. Kill him, toss both bodies to the cells.
>>
No. 956106 ID: 47f581

>>956073
I think that's too much, would get the other guards on Moss's ass.
>>
No. 956119 ID: 2f91b6

>>956106
The choices? The deadly legal system which favors royals (which also risks immediate death by sword), or kill him. The "people" of the cells will dispose of the bodies to cover. You have a better idea?
>>
No. 956122 ID: b1b4f3

>>956119
Okay first, there are a ton of witnesses right now.
Second, it favors nobles proportional to how much influence they have. Sayanos had no real power, Krix has a fuckton of power. Krix is so powerful that his servants are supposed to be treated with respect by the lower nobles; that's why Moss should be able to get away with killing Sayanos.

The captain may be corrupt but he can't get away with immediately killing Moss, and Moss sure as fuck can't get away with killing his captain out of paranoia.
>>
No. 956123 ID: bb78f2

>>956031
Well, you're a fellow palace guard, I know the code, at least. I'll follow orders then.

I'll be honest, if you wanted me to do what he wanted, you should have just told me what he wanted me to do yourself instead of having him doing it directly. Maybe I would've actually done it and been a good little boy then, or refused and simply accepted the consequence of dis-subordination. It would have been an order from a fellow guard, an official order from Warlord Krix by proxy, rather than from a Pocktown noble.

Or were you too afraid to use chain of command to involve Krix in this scum's personal plot for glory?
>>
No. 956124 ID: f133dc

Tell him to cut the petulant bullshit and go get the Warden NOW. Tell him you'll wait here, with the body.
>>
No. 956127 ID: 10c408

>>956122
Yes. He can damn well get away with killing Moss right now in the next... well however long he has until someone else who ALSO heard sayanos's bloody murder turns up.

That's the exact point in which he can't get away with killing Moss and not one second before.
>>
No. 956128 ID: b1b4f3

>>956127
Stop.
>>
No. 956129 ID: 996d42

I would say that you shouldn't antagonize him. He already fuck it up by letting Sayanos do what ever he wanted. He will get what he deserves.
>>
No. 956130 ID: a9af05

>>956031
Don't give up your weapons. He only said to get in the cell, he never said anything about disarming yourself.

>>956049
Get this over with as soon as possible.
Might as well suggest that to him.

>>956127
If you're going to continue arguing, please take it to the disthread.
>>
No. 956137 ID: 8d23f0

>>956031
get in the cell but take the body with you and don't disarm.
>>
No. 956138 ID: b1b4f3

The captain DID in fact order Moss to drop his weapons, in the previous update.
>>
No. 956151 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158157498881.png - (29.54KB , 800x800 , 1376.png )
956151

For all the concern the captain's expressing, he hasn't bothered to save Sayanos at all, but maybe he sees how much blood there is. I made sure to cut deep enough that not even a healing cloth is going to fix him. He's already still.

I step forward -

>"Disarm."

- and drop my dagger. The captain barely fails to hide a sigh of relief on his part.

>"The badge and sword as well."

I'm deciding to disarm, and the badge is the easiest thing to drop. It's out of my hands now, but my hands are still shaking, damnit. At least I don't have to pass by the prisoners at all, they'd have an easy time sniffing out how unsettled I am!
>>
No. 956152 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158157499786.png - (26.49KB , 800x800 , 1377.png )
956152

There's not much point in facing the captain as I walk. To do so means turning my back to one of the escorting guards, and if the captain wanted to kill me, he just has to give a signal.
>>
No. 956153 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158157503499.png - (27.13KB , 800x800 , 1378.png )
956153

I walk into an open cell, and they turn it into a closed cell. I don't like how quiet the prisoners are. They might've heard some of the commotion, and if so, they're trying to eavesdrop on what's going on. The sound sometimes carries too well in this dungeon.
>>
No. 956154 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158157504601.png - (31.51KB , 800x800 , 1379.png )
956154

And sure enough, they must've overheard someone talking too much, because once the captain and his crew heads back to their posts, the noise starts. I'm not even close by, but they're screaming their jokes about chickens in coops and whatever other mockeries they can think of.

It's not a long wait until the warden comes.

>"Hello, Moss."
"Hello, Sir." I don't think I've spoken to him since I was hired.
>"I've put in a request to Lord Krix. Normally we would send word to Sir Sayanos' heir or immediate family and hear cases and so on and so forth to best decide on what to do with you, but as Lord Krix personally recommended that I hire you, it would be a crass act to not include him in our decisions. And as he is the highest rank, he then gets first choice in deciding what to do. You can consider yourself informed that there's no guarantee he cares about this enough, and he may simply pass on the decision of judgement back to us."
"And what do you see fit?"
>"As of now? I see nothing, because I have not heard your case."

I open my mouth to speak, but I stumble for what to say exactly. I stay silent, but he cuts me off as if I started speaking.

>"No, no. Wait, Moss. You have been gifted time to think of your case, and make a prepared speech. Use your time well, as if you do, you may fare far better than blurting out everything out in a desperate breath of hot air."
"How long until Lord Krix sends word?"
>"Who can say? My messenger, I should hope, but not us. You see, Lord Krix is out of town at the moment, and he can be a very difficult noble to find. It could be days before we get word. Weeks, if you're unlucky. It still doesn't matter how long, as you'll have to wait out however much time it takes. The captain informed me that you obeyed orders 'well enough', so until Lord Krix returns word, we have no plans to treat you poorly. No meals of gruel or slop, or excessive manacles, or... well, you won't turn into... them." He gestures to the public prisons. "A proper bedroll is on its way. You may request personal belongings or anything else to help you pass the time, within reason."
>>
No. 956156 ID: 10c408

Make a request for whatever creature comforts you happen to have, you may end up being here for a very long time.

Politely tell the warden that you'll make two copies of the note you plan on giving to warlord krix and that you'll be hiding the other in the cell somewhere because you do not trust the captain.
>>
No. 956157 ID: b1b4f3

>>956154
Well we already know some bullet points to bring up:
1, first the most damning thing in the eyes of the court- he opened and read your mail.
2, he kicked you in the crotch the first time you met, for merely the tone of your voice. He then attempted the same thing this time, but you didn't let him.
3, he tried to send you on a suicide mission seemingly without consulting your boss. The mission was to kill Fen, who you believe at this point has more resources than Sayanos had, though perhaps not in raw coin.
4, he threatened to kill your family and friends and the family of one of your friends if you did not accept and COMPLETE this impossible task.
So this really just felt like self-defense in multiple ways, against someone who shouldn't have been a noble to begin with. I mean what kind of idiot comes alone, unarmed, TWICE, to assault an armed soldier and threaten everyone he cares about? Noble or not, if you hadn't killed him, someone else would've.

As for what stuff to have to pass the time... I don't suppose they'll let you send a letter? You could tell Fen how you joined him in the noble-killing club!
Also art supplies, deck of cards, some books... you'd like to talk to Nawm every now and then. Ask them to let Gahn visit you if he wants, but he can't enter the cell and they have to make sure he's not hiding a crossbow or something. He was already instructed to kill you once, it could happen again.
>>
No. 956162 ID: a00b9f

>>956157
Nice but personally I'd leave out #2 (or at least put it later). It's the kind of petty stuff nobles always get away with because the law is on their side (at least at Stone level, see end of thread 4).

May also mention that outright orders to kill Fen seem to overstep a line Warlord Krix has so far been very careful not to cross, so he likely won't want to look like he condones it.
>>
No. 956167 ID: 10c408

>>956157
Nawn'll probably show up, we don't and probably shouldn't specifically mention her on the paranoid off-chance that the captain (or someone else) decides that our one prison guard buddy needs to suffer/die to spite us.

And I'd be very surprised if Gahn is even in town after stabbing Moss's pillow while he slept.

And lastly, some other bulletpoints to spitball

5: conspiracy to commit murder/manslaughter
6:

Actually you know what? Treason against Krix. That should be a bullet point. And for the simple reason that this dumb moron told you enough that if you hadn't panicked and killed him while he was assaulting you *again*, you could have very well walked to Erja nokol, surrendered and given the army commander over there everything he'd need to have Krix put on trial for conspiracy to assassinate an imperial soldier.
>>
No. 956168 ID: 884f69

>>956154
Hm, make a case? I'd go with loyalism. Make Sayanos seem mad or a fraud at best, a traitor at worst.
Evidence:
-Offered a large sum of empire resources for a grudge with a soldier
-Made threats of mass murder over said grudge
-Attempted sabotage of the empire's military
>>
No. 956169 ID: bfdaf0

Now is as good a time as any to request protection for Val and for Gahn's family, if fearful that Sayanos may have ordered his thugs to kill them if he doesn't return. But now that I think of it, he may have been too arrogant to conceive that a lowly soldier could kill him.
>>
No. 956172 ID: bfdaf0

In short, the report shall say that this upstart attempted to poach one of Warlord Krix's soldiers for an obvious suicide mission -- a mission Krix wouldn't want associated with his name, at that -- and his means of doing so involved threatening to execute honest imperial civilians for the sole crime of being people Moss cares about.

Then we sprinkle the details: Sayanos knew Warlord Krix wouldn't approve, since he resorted to bribery to come down there. Sayanos violated the secrecy of imperial mail. Sayanos got physically violent. Sayanos got dead.
>>
No. 956175 ID: 1ed92d

>>956154
Sayanos threatened to kill your ex-wife and your coworkers if you didn't help him sabotage the army at Erja Nokol.

It's absolutely a fact. Yes.
>>
No. 956177 ID: baec18

>>956154
Ask if you can't get like, a bucket of water and a rag or something to clean up.

At this point your fate is ultimately out of your hands, but your behavior here can nudge things in one direction or the other. Be polite, don't seem like you enjoyed killing the noble, etc...

Hopefully whatever plays cheese is making work out. Or maybe Krix will just be OK with you killing Sayanos? Guy seemed like he'd be annoying.
>>
No. 956179 ID: 91ee5f

>>956157
>Nawm
We might not need to mention Nawm. She’ll probably show up on her own to live up to her name and nom on the lunches that she said Moss owes her.

Which will be a disappointment to her, since Moss won’t be able to make his usual good food while in a cell.

>>956175
This.
>>
No. 956180 ID: 996d42

>>956157
>>956168
I like these.
>>
No. 956186 ID: a0dfd2

>>956154

May as well offer our thanks, and perhaps ask to speak with Nawm, once we've gotten some means to write a letter.

... and have Nawm, whom I PRESUME we trust enough, to deliver said letter to that little chest beneath the rubbish bin in that place Cheese told us about.

If only to let her know that a certain unruly pebble won't be such a pain in our proverbial foot, any longer.
>>
No. 956187 ID: 91ee5f

>>956186
Nawm is nice and all that, but I don’t think we should tell her about Cheese’s secret mail drop.

Also, I don’t think Cheese would like us to go telling other people about it.
>>
No. 956188 ID: a0dfd2

>>956168

That last one is perhaps the only thing that would potentially be looked down upon, given what we know of nobles insofar.

Stating that Sayanos' actions would have been a direct detriment both to the safety of the mausoleum (hey, if a random guard could infiltrate and pull this off, then just wow -- worse still if we were just someone expendable to distract the target from *real* assassins) and the efforts of Grand Knight Zall's campaign against the necromancers, let alone the attempted coercion to murder one of his prized knights.

It was in learning that a compatriot of ours, Gahn, was similarly approached and threatened that we had no reason to believe that Sayanos would cease his efforts even if we failed; we were merely the easiest pieces to move, so to speak (and the least likely to go missed), nevermind that such actions would go against the will of Warlord Krix, whom we serve at the palace (a very important distinction here, further painting Sayanos as working against his superiors).

Setting up our argument that we are a hapless and lowly guard with ties to the target, and had no reason *not* to believe the coercion against us, and pressing that Sayanos' efforts could have harmed the Empire's own efforts against the undead threat would thus put him in line with Lady Cati and Lord Bardo, for having failed to uphold their oaths to the Emperor.

A fact which I'm sure we haven't forgotten, after the trial Lady Apanya presided over.

As such, our actions were not self-defense, but an effort to protect the interests of Krix and uphold the will of the Emperor.

Above all, remember that our words need not be completely truthful; only damning enough of the opposition, who, mind you, is already dead and, like a certain noble before him, will decidedly *not* have an opportunity to defend himself.
>>
No. 956191 ID: a9af05

>>956187
I agree. Don't tell Nawm about the secret mail drop.
>>
No. 956192 ID: 48ce40

Nawm is probably at least a little mad at you, since you promised not to do anything that could earn enemies, so no getting much from her for a little while. Probably can't trust anyone else, either, though. Best chance is to try subtly flash Cheese's signals at people bringing you things and see if any of them are secret agents.

You could ask for a pair of earplugs or similar to help you with the prisoners' screaming. Besides that, perhaps a book? If there are any secret agents around, they could slip you a note in it.

As for your defense, you should probably focus on Sayanos repeatedly disrespecting Krix by sneakysnooping around and being bossy to his underlings without permission, before other points. In conflict with a noble your best appeal is to the rights of a bigger noble, not your own.
>>
No. 956195 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158162811845.png - (27.82KB , 800x800 , 1380.png )
956195

"Some pen and paper. A book to pass the time, and a bucket and cloth to clean myself up. Will I be allowed visitors and mail?"
>"Both will be allowed under the rule that we'll read your outgoing mail and be present during your visits." The warden says while giving a nod to a guard to the side and soon returns with the items.

"I'd like a friend named Gahn to come visit me." I give him the details I can, but he may not be easy to find.
>"We'll do what we can. Oh, and your personal items will be stored in a private locker for the time being."

Using the pen and paper, I make my case. When I read it over, it looks more like a report of what happened from one event to the next, rather than a plead of innocence. I think I like it like that, but maybe I should play it up with thoughts of loyalty, or how I'm protecting Krix's interests, or whatever. I need more time to collect my thoughts to make sure it doesn't just sound desperate from me, but I think I have a lot of material to give to a fair court. If the court's not fair, then I'm screwed no matter my defense.

The prisoners slowly go back to their normal noises, and only the most persistent of prisoners keeps yelling at me despite no indication I hear them.
>>
No. 956196 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158162815255.png - (21.19KB , 800x800 , 1381.png )
956196

Some guards begin walking by, as their shift ends and the night crew takes their places. I'm glad I was right to think Nawm would visit on her own. She stops by on her way out.

>"Moss."
"Nawm."
>"When I said try not to get kicked in the crotch again, I didn't mean stab the guy."
"It worked, didn't it?"

She coughs out a little 'pf'.

>"You can still joke, huh?"
"I guess I can, even if I shouldn't."
>"I brought you a training sword and a straw rod."
"You were allowed?"
>"Yeah. I talked it over with the captain and the other guards, and we know how bad it can be locked up for a long time. I mean, I hope it isn't a long time, but if it is, it's best to be able to beat the hell out of some inanimate objects."
>>
No. 956197 ID: 10c408

Honestly, I think Krix would appreciate integrity more than ass-kissing or flattery.

Add on an apology for having killed Sayanos, you woke up with a knife in your pillow right next to your head and during your shift you find out he's returned to assault you again.
>>
No. 956199 ID: 48ce40

"Thanks, Nawm. You know I actually held my knife out in front of my crotch and he kicked it himself?"

I wonder if you should include that in the report, actually. It emphasizes how arrogant and foolish Sayanos was that he didn't even keep an eye on your weapon while alone with you (nobles seem to be quite open to stories of other nobles being idiots, from what we experienced with the trial), and might amuse Krix. It is the truth, too, matching up with the wounds on his corpse if they take a look at it.
>>
No. 956200 ID: c2f1f6

Add on a couple points-
-You'll accept any judgement they render, but in any case you'd like the court to protect Gahn and your ex from Sayanos' henchmen, co-conspirators or string-pullers, as the case may be.
-make the point that you answer to Warlord Krix and not Sayanos. Maybe Krix will appreciate that, maybe leave it out if it looks like he's in no mood for suckups.

Tell Nawm that at current interest rates, if or when you get out of here you'll owe her a lot of lunches.
>>
No. 956201 ID: a0dfd2

>>956196

Nice of her.

(Now why do I get the feeling that rod isn't what we think it is ...?)
>>
No. 956202 ID: 86eb65

Krix is a warlord so he probably would prefer a honest military style report. Be polite and respectful but don't try to suck up.

Honestly if Krix shows up to find you training hard in your cell with a nice easy to read report on the table it will probably do more for you than any amount of false flattery.

Also a apology for making him come all this way to have to deal with your mess.

"Nawm you are the best. Thank you for everything."

"Oh and if you bring me ingredients I will make you lunches while I am locked up."
>>
No. 956203 ID: a8720f

>>956188
You're correct that the last is the key, the first two were support the case that he'd become crazy, or was a traitor.
>>
No. 956204 ID: a9af05

>>956196
Thank Nawm for what she brought to you.

>>956202
Unless she's able to bring a source of fire to use for cooking, I doubt she'll be able to bring ingredients for cooking.
>>
No. 956205 ID: bb78f2

>>956196
Thanks a lot, Nawm.
>>
No. 956234 ID: fa2754

Apologize on not being able to make her any meals.
>>
No. 956236 ID: 91ee5f

>>956196
Tell Nawm that you’re sorry that you can’t make any meals for her to nom on.

>>956202
Yeah, a military style report and seeing us training in our cell sounds like a good plan.
>>
No. 956239 ID: b1b4f3

Maybe you can ask for exercise equipment too. GET SWOLE.
>>
No. 956248 ID: dbd72b

Nawm's cool. Let her know. Also? Ask if she can put a note in Cheese's place. But don't mention Cheese, or any other details. Let Cheese know the spot is compromised, and give a status report. Your factual, by the books testimony is good enough for this (and won't compromise your testimony if anyone extra reads it). Three folds, this is important.
Agreeing with general sentiment to train, because what else are you going to do? Sorry, revenge isn't fun.
As far as I can see, your job is to keep people from fucking with Krix. So if someone less than Krix fucks with you, they're fucking with Krix's security system, and therefore Krix himself. Simple reason why Cheese knows what you did is ok, and something he'd want to encourage.These are good details to add to your testimony. But maybe said nicer?
>>
No. 956250 ID: 015bf2

Take the stuff.

"Damn, you're all being way too nice. You told them I make good lunches, didn't ya?"

Don't mention Cheese's drop off point to Nawm. If you get out of this, you could use it as replacement drop-off for Fen mail. That, and getting your one friendly face in this dump involved with all this cloak and dagger stuff doesn't quite seem worth it.

Your report seems fine, but you're going to get questioned and if a truth wizard's there, so you need to consider carefully not just the facts of the report, but how you express yourself. Leaving yourself open to questions like 'did you plan to kill Sayanos' may fluster you, so you ready answers like 'I'd rather not have had to kill him right then, but I can't deny I wanted him dead for threatening me and my friends.' You can, and should, honestly present yourself as a victim of circumstance and idiot noble overreach.
>>
No. 956255 ID: 1047cb

>>956250
>noble overreach
Bad idea. The empire's system is set up to harm people who disobey authority, regardless of how stupid the authority is, to keep the system's power. Moss must seem loyal. His victim must seem disloyal.
>>
No. 956256 ID: 015bf2

>>956255
Noble overreach can be considered traitorous.

See also: the two dead golds at Fen’s trial.

By presuming to give orders to Moss without asking for permission to give said orders, Sayanos placed himself above Warlord Krix in rank. Moss is no dragon knight, but if Sayanos did not have the strength to resist even s lowly dungeon guard, he has clearly proved himself unworthy of contesting Krix’d power.
>>
No. 956257 ID: 48ce40

Getting swole might actually be a good strategy. The Empire values strength. Sayanos was a scrawny fella, and wasn't a mage to excuse it, so if a big buff upstanding warrior guy is held up in comparison to him, there'll be a predisposition to favor the guy who fits the cultural ideal better. It's shitty, but might as well work in our favor.
>>
No. 956262 ID: a9af05

>>956250
>Don't mention Cheese's drop off point to Nawm. If you get out of this, you could use it as replacement drop-off for Fen mail. That, and getting your one friendly face in this dump involved with all this cloak and dagger stuff doesn't quite seem worth it.
I agree with all of this.
>>
No. 956274 ID: ce39da

Make sure not to make any claims based on stuff you learned from Cheese and no-one else. Even if the court discovers your info to be accurate, it might raise some awkward questions about how you knew.
>>
No. 956285 ID: 6325da

>>956256
Much better, though I'd be highly cautious with that. The trial was partially (or mostly) a power play. Moss's judge will have a lot of leeway, too.
>>
No. 956290 ID: 10c408

>>956285
Moss's judge will probably be Krix for all the right reasons.

If the judge isn't Krix then we're up the creek without a paddle.
>>
No. 956405 ID: 15a025

Well, earlier you did mention how you should pick up training again. Seems like Nawm's brought you the perfect chance, and maybe more.
>>956201
Feel the training sword a little more closely later and see if there's something hiding in it?
>>
No. 956593 ID: f133dc

I just had a nasty thought.

What Cheese said about him not getting in too much trouble for killing Sayanos, that would likely be true for any old kobold working there right now, except where Moss is a known accomplice of Fen, and just killed a noble for telling him to kill Fen, this might just be seen as him declaring himself Fen's ally.

Which Krix probably wouldn't look to mercifully on.
>>
No. 956597 ID: 13059a

>>956593
Murder Krix?
Murder Krix...
>>
No. 956599 ID: 10c408

>>956593
Okay, for real. If Krix was even aware of the connection between Moss and Fen, there's a thousand other ways for Sayanos to screw over Moss, let alone Krix who is Boss to the both of them.

Instead, Sayanos shows up unannounced, with no fanfare nor guards, has to bribe one of Krix's OTHER subordinates and then makes it perfectly clear he doesn't give a shit about the chain of command because noble title.

These are not the actions of someone who has not only rifled through Moss's mail to discover the fen-moss connection, but also got Krix's blessing. Sayanos would not have had to go around Krix's back like this if Krix approved of the machinations to get Moss to die semi-pointlessly.
>>
No. 956622 ID: a5320c

Plus, Krix doesn't want to kill Fen without plausible deniability (he wants to remove an enemy without making an enemy of someone much more dangerous), and sending one of his own soldiers with direct orders to kill Fen is counterproductive to that.
>>
No. 956924 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158231507157.png - (54.16KB , 800x800 , 1382.png )
956924

"Thanks, Nawm, and send thanks to the rest of the guards who you talked it over with, too. If you fit a stove in here, I'll cook for you too." I spare her any 'nom' jokes. She's heard it so many times. Even the prisoners are tired of barking 'nom' at her.
>"Haha, I might just find a way."
"Have any iron plates?"
>"What for?"
"To exercise with. I'll break this sword if it's all I get to have."
>"You're already meaty."
"Standing around all day's put me out of good shape."
>"Hah, well as long as you don't flex your own bones apart."

I've hit a plateau with my martial skill anyway. I was never good at it past a point, so my fighting ability heavily depends on my plain physical strength. I'd best keep that high up by mindlessly swinging swords and iron around. I can do that all day as long as my body can, and I know it'll be much better for me than rotting in this cell.

After swinging the sword, I lay down for the night and realize I've never been here overnight. The prisoners don't shut up overnight. I wonder if they sleep, but a third of the prisoners may just always be asleep in the back of the cell at any time. It's possibly they've lost any sense of night and day, and each guard shift is the same as the other.

Sleeping is tough, but I manage.
>>
No. 956925 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158231508437.png - (38.53KB , 800x800 , 1383.png )
956925

I learn I won't be paid while I'm in jail, but that's fine, since I'm getting free room and food here, even though the former is disgusting and the latter is bland. Aside from all the free cafeteria porridge I could stomach, books and items are freely lent to me. If not for the damn prisoner's noisiness at night, this wouldn't be so bad for a few days vacation. A few weeks, though... that might give me some prisoner's insanity.

The prisoners realize Nawm was visiting me for recreational purposes, so of course by the time she visits again, they're making impressions of a bunch of chickens in an orgy. I think. What I know is that it's a mess of awful noise.

Nawm and I chat before she leaves to wind down for the evening, and I'm damn sure I'm not going to ask her to choose hanging around me and the dungeon instead of the shining palace.

I let her go, make sure the straw rod Nawm brought is securely installed, and drown out the prisoner's noise by hitting the rod with the training sword. The sword, I've noticed, is just a sword, without any secret cell keys or anything hidden inside. I was more tempted to get her to drop off a letter for Cheese, but I think Nawm's completely clean. I'm not going to drag even just her fingernail into this shady business if I don't have to, and as far as I'm concerned, Cheese should've been able to figure out anything I could tell her by now.

That leaves me for a second night of prisoners, who I now think are being louder knowing that I'm not used to this crap. I end up using the sword more like a club by the end of the night.
>>
No. 956926 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158231511941.png - (24.74KB , 800x800 , 1384.png )
956926

I wake up. It's the 88th, and I can tell something's going on. The guards have restored their posture, and their coats and self are cleaner, and there's a certain quietness in the air as the prisoners either yell more specific taunts, or shut up entirely to listen. If it's not Krix arriving, it's still important.

The warden didn't tell me anything, but I didn't wait. I've got a well thought out report now. It turns out my body didn't let me swing sword and iron around all day, and that left me some good time to think, read, and write my report. I'm even a little proud of it, even if it's something I wish I didn't have to do.

There's no sucking up in it. If I tried to suck up to Krix, I'd either come off as the most insincere kobold to ever address him, or puke before I managed it. It's forthright, and I've studied well for every question I could imagine being asked. I'm pointing out what I did was loyalty to the province and the empire, and it was Sayanos who was at odds with them, not I.
>>
No. 956927 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158231519282.png - (19.98KB , 800x800 , 1385.png )
956927

For the first and only moment that I've been in this dungeon, it falls completely silent. I shut my eyes to focus on the sounds. A few unusual thuds approach.

The prisoners burst at their cages.

>"GOLDIE GOLDIE GOLDIE!"
>"COME ON COME ON TO THE BARS WE LOVE YOU!"
>"WOW A REAL SHITBAG COME TO JOIN US?!"
>>
No. 956928 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158231526315.png - (34.71KB , 800x800 , 1386.png )
956928

>"I'm sorry Lord Krix, but on short notice, we could not move the prisoners." I hear the warden, followed by what must be Krix.
>"Why would you?"
>"This is the only passage that you may fit through, and, as you can see, the prisoners don't behave."
>"You allow this?"
>"They are more animal than kobold, by now. The only way to keep them from acting as they are is to also keep them from being any good at hard labor."

>"Naw try it!"
>"Yeah come on just a little closer my gourd!"
>"Come on you know you wanna see what happens."
>"You aren't scared of a few starving prisoners are ya?"
>"I bet you're the new chickenshit around here!"

>"I'm sorry, Lord Krix, but your size means this is the only available hall that leads to Moss. I would recommend we bring Moss to you, not wait - "
>"I am above this nonsense."
>>
No. 956929 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158231527857.png - (74.24KB , 800x800 , 1387.png )
956929

I hear a crunch of wood as the hall door opens in the wrong direction.

>"He's going for it!"
>"Pull him in guys, fuck him u -
>>
No. 956930 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158231533011.png - (67.35KB , 800x800 , 1388.png )
956930

>>
No. 956931 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158231534343.png - (80.83KB , 800x800 , 1389.png )
956931

I hear noises and screams that I didn't need to listen so carefully for.
>>
No. 956932 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158231536608.png - (30.19KB , 800x800 , 1390.png )
956932

It's followed by a silence I've never heard in the dungeon. There's still cries of pain, but the ambient noise of prisoners, chatter and activity is simply gone to a point I didn't know was possible.

Krix finds me and faces the bars. I avert my gaze, not entirely because he's a noble, but I'd like to make an effort to hide some of my contempt for him.

>"Why did you not take the chance to kill Fen?"

I didn't expect that question to be first, but I arrange my thoughts where my report addressed that.

"... To do so would undermine a mission arranged by one higher than Sir Sayanos was."
>"So you killed him, instead?"
"It was done in self defense." Shit, I had a half dozen reasons why that's the case, but Krix's stare bores at me harder with every extra word I say. "For reasons of threats and sending me on a suicide mission."
>"Why did he come to you to kill Fen?"
"Sir Sayanos believed that because I was a familiar face, Fen would let me approach his back."

Krix pauses, then squints.

>"Have you been writing to Fen?"
>>
No. 956933 ID: 465a14

Not recently.
>>
No. 956934 ID: 86eb65

Be honest.

"Yes Lord Krix. I met Fen before he gained his current fame and we have kept in touch. I suspect that Sir Sayanos was reading my mail and that is why he approached me."
>>
No. 956935 ID: c4c8ec

Lying to this question will only get you dead, I think. Say "yes" matter-of-factly. If he presses on, say Fen struck your curiosity so you wanted to know if he was successful or not.
>>
No. 956936 ID: 3ce8ff

I should hope you already know, as my mail has been compromised for a while now, but yes back when I could send mail.
>>
No. 956938 ID: cdabe3

>>956936
>>956935
>>956934
these all sound good
>>
No. 956940 ID: c2f1f6

I've been trying to keep tabs, but my letters have been compromised.

Remember refer to him as WARlord Krix.
>>
No. 956941 ID: e2f5cc

Hey, at least you know that Fen has experience in fighting affronts to all known deities that can rip him limb from limb with all the ease of breathing, so fighting Krix might not even be too big a departure from what he's doing now!

>>956931
This image still has the faded outline of the previous pic
>>
No. 956942 ID: c4c8ec

>>956940
I think "my lord" will do for now. Using someone's title (or worse, title and name) to their face sounds a bit confrontational.
>>
No. 956943 ID: baec18

>>956934
>>956940
These.
Add something to the effect of "we keep light on the details", maybe, to make sure it's clear you're not -too- buddy-buddy, but that yes, you are friends for the most part.
>>
No. 956944 ID: ce39da

Come to think of it, the story was supposed to be that you hated Fen's guts, right?

"I felt I had some choice words for him after we parted ways, and he had some responses. I'm still not sure how I feel about him."

This is all true while doing nothing to play up our relationship with him.
>>
No. 956945 ID: 48ce40

"Yes. Enough to know Sir Sayanos' plan would not have worked."

If you can, try keep to the idea that Sayanos was weak and incompetent. He was. He literally kicked your knife. That sort of response might make him ask you how you would kill Fen, yourself, to which the answer you'll probably need to give is that you wouldn't while he was in Erja, you'd wait until he was in a more accessible situation. You probably can get away with simply being honest about your distaste for underhanded things like backstabbing, too. He knows by now you're an honest guy, because at the trial it came out as why you didn't steal the cloth, so he'll believe it - he's probably had you investigated by now, anyway, if he's smart and wary of Apanya. You might have to buy yourself out a bit by giving a real opinion on how you would kill Fen. Fortunately, and uh no offense, I don't think you can actually figure out a way to kill Fen, by yourself.

I don't know if Moss knows this, but given Krix directly sent guys to Fen saying "hey become one of my dudes or you'll regret it" suggests maybe Krix isn't interested in the underhanded tactics himself? The general bounty offer could be from other people. Or Fen's successes might have elevated him to the point where Krix's dominance is more questionable. If I'm understanding kobold culture right, Krix might have to somehow publicly defeat Fen somehow to secure his right to own the dragoncloth, in people's minds and in his reputation, if not officially. I wouldn't imagine Krix is "honorable" but he is probably concerned with being absolutely perceived as strong without a doubt.
>>
No. 956954 ID: c4c8ec

>>956945
>The general bounty offer could be from other people.
It is: As far as we know it was set by the merchants of Pocktown. Krix ensured everyone from Turtle knew about it, but also made a point of not setting a bounty of his own and not giving direct orders against Fen.
I think he's trying not to cross a line that would make Zall actively want him dead.
>>
No. 956956 ID: bb78f2

>>956932
Yes. I gifted him a pair of socks and gave him a status update of my lifestyle, given he's responsible for my current position. I'm hesitant to call us friends, as I am somewhat angry at him for throwing so much chaos in my life. Still, I wouldn't kill him unless he's declared a criminal, within my patrol, and won't submit to arrest. I am a guard, I am to either arrest or kill those who resist arrest. Subterfuge, bounty hunting, and assassination is beneath me.
>>
No. 956958 ID: 015bf2

The letters are already a known factor to some people and, presumably, a feature of your report as to how Sayanos decided to target you. It makes denying them or pretending to outright hate Fen quite pointless, so you don't have to be defensive about it.

I think the only additional danger here is your contempt for Krix and how unsettled he is making you. So rein in your feelings. You are a stony mcstone-faced soldier who guts stones all day long.

"Yes, Warlord. After the trial, the barbarian sent me a letter inquiring about my state, seemingly out of concern. After some thought, I decided to send him one back. We have corresponded since, neither of us telling the other more than light details of our lives - nothing others wouldn't be able to suss out, and better. I am still of mixed feelings when it comes to him, but at least our treatment of scheming petty nobles has turned out to be pretty similar."

Maintain your tone.

"Sayanos' revenge scheme was poorly planned, doomed to failure and had him admit to having messed with imperial mail. He was more pawn than stone and I am confident your rule of the Turtle is better off without him. I will accept whatever punishment you order due to his death, but he was neither in the right place nor within his authority to order me to attempt to kill Fen through assassination."

We can at least hope your dislike for scheming petty nobles resonates with Krix.
>>
No. 956961 ID: 10c408

Yeah, okay. I'd keep it brief and honest. Krix *hates* the game that all the nobles play openly and others play quietly. Trying to verbally manipulate him is only going to get us killed.

"Yes, I have. And Sayanos admitted to reading all of it in our first meeting."
>>
No. 956963 ID: 13059a

>>956961
You got a point, might wanna tell Krix that Sayanos is exactly the backstabby, snaketongued, 7D mindchess greedy and yet oh so petty noble someone of a warlods background would hate with every fiber in their body.
>>
No. 956966 ID: 10c408

>>956963
My concern is that even giving him the letter instead of answering his yes/no questions will only result in further violence. Those bars will undoubtedly not protect Moss from Krix (and that's not even accounting for the warden)
>>
No. 956980 ID: a0dfd2

>>956932

Might as well just give a simple yes.

If pressed: you've had some correspondence, and he's the one who has been keeping you up to date on the campaign in Erja Nokol.

We already know someone has been reading our mail, but they don't need to be aware that we know. So long as we believe that nothing we've done is wrong, then the only fault is whatever may have made it through the mail.
>>
No. 956986 ID: 10c408

Actually, I take it back. We can manipulate Krix a little bit. Disguise your disgust for Krix with your disgust for this cloak and dagger shit that Sayanos brought to your doorstep, forcing you to consult Cheese about and cost you a job that you've learned to tolerate if for nothing else other than simply having adjacency to title that most nobles would consider you irrelevant.
>>
No. 956998 ID: 1ed92d

>>956932
Yes, you have been writing to Fen. That's what he wants to know. Krix already knows you hate his incredibly huge guts, he probably assumes anyone he meets hates him, so no need to bring that up.
>>
No. 957034 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158240732074.png - (20.26KB , 800x800 , 1391.png )
957034

"Yes, Warlord. Sir Sayanos had found out by reading my mail."
>"You said you did not attempt Fen's life, because it would hurt the Erja Nokol campaign."

I'd succeed at killing Fen in face to face combat sooner than succeed in keeping my tone in check, so I talk about Sayanos so that my contempt is direct towards him instead of Krix.

"Yes, and I had no faith in Sir Sayanos' poorly planned revenge scheme, nor his position to order me to kill Fen." I pause. I'm sure what I wrote sounded better.
>"Warden, free him."
>"One moment, sir." The warden says and runs to get the keys.

Krix faces me again.

>"If you have anything to say to me, now is the time, deserter."

... The only group I've ever deserted was Krix's own rebellion.
>>
No. 957035 ID: 465a14

For all your anger you haven't changed anything about the system. Your rebellion failed even if it got you a title.
>>
No. 957036 ID: 695467

I feel like saying anything here would be a trap, best to keep your mouth shut.
>>
No. 957038 ID: 48ce40

Huh. Is him suddenly speaking quietly (not bold text) deliberate, I wonder? I notice he just sent the only other person away, as well. Just not wanting the whole history to be brought up, or actually looking for something specific? I dunno, maybe if it'd make you feel better you might say something about him deserting the promises his rebellion made or its ideals or something, or comment about how he treats his own rebels or some such. He's probably expecting something, might think less of you if you just say nothing, so if you word it right you might not technically admit to anything while emphasizing that whole history as something the both of you should leave behind. Or something.
>>
No. 957039 ID: 5298bf

In the end of things, you'll be much more than just a memory.
>>
No. 957040 ID: e2f5cc

"Is... Is there something you want me to say, my lord?"

Saying nothing is also a good plan, and I feel that calling Krix Warlord here will probably be seen as sucking up a bit too much.
>>
No. 957044 ID: 13059a

>>957034
"Do you really want to call someone who was forced into a difficult situation by someone else who clearly didn't know what they were doing in a attempt to gain more vain power, and thus chose the only way out that didn't kill themselves a deserter?"
>>
No. 957045 ID: c4c8ec

If you feel really cheeky, you can tell him you're surprised he bothers to remember one of the countless people whose family he massacred.
Or that his recruitment pitch sucked.
But I advise against it.
>>
No. 957046 ID: a0dfd2

>>957034

Let's not. There's a better time and place for that, then unarmed, in a cell, and just having had our life spared.

Krix is an asshole, but right now, we kind of owe him a bit of gratitude. Anything else can wait, considering we've gotten very good at doing just that.
>>
No. 957047 ID: c4c8ec

>>957044
Or less murder-inducing, can say desertion requires legal authority to conscript.
>>
No. 957050 ID: 86eb65

Probably best to shut up if you can not keep your emotions in check.

What is this deserter talk?
>>
No. 957051 ID: 65e83b

What do you expect of me now? What do you gain from this situation?
>>
No. 957052 ID: baec18

>>957034
You really shouldn't say anything, but if you absolutely NEED to, do NOT make character attacks, provoke a fight, or question his legitimacy.
DO (if you need to) express that -you- are still angry about your extended family being murdered for not joining a rebellion. If you keep it limited to how angry -you- are, and not how much of an asshole -he- is, it becomes much less likely for him to murder you in response.
You definitely want him dead, and he definitely knows, but if you choose your words carefully here you may get something (very) loosely resembling an apology, or (more likely) he'll say something that absolutely cements his position as king dickhead.
But seriously don't be cheeky.
A lot of work went into you not dying, so don't waste it now.
>>
No. 957062 ID: ce39da

"Part of me still can't believe he actually went and kicked the knife I held to my crotch without looking."

This is the most likely parting word to get a laugh out of Krix: stating that Sayanos is a moron without letting a direct insult slip that could get us in trouble.
>>
No. 957063 ID: b1b4f3

>>957034
Consider airing your grievances. He just gave you a blank check to do so. Why not give him a fair shot at defending his actions? It's probably gonna be "war is hell, deal with it you pansy" or something similar but he will appreciate being treated fairly.
>>
No. 957067 ID: 91ee5f

>>957034
I don’t think you should say anything to him. Just be glad that he’s not ripping your arms off.
>>
No. 957068 ID: 10c408

He's baiting you. Do NOT say anything negative that can be used to as justification for him to snap you in half.
>>
No. 957069 ID: c2f1f6

If he'd like information he needs to be specific, anything else you'd like to say you'll take to your grave.
>>
No. 957073 ID: 10c408

>>957068
Actually I take it back, there is one thing to say. Throw your captain under the bus here.

"I hate the game as much as you do, you know. But unlike my captain, I don't accept bribes to look the other way when treason is afoot."
>>
No. 957074 ID: b1b4f3

>>957073
Oh, we could do that, yeah. Except more direct? Like just straight up go "I'd like to report that my Captain has been taking bribes."
>>
No. 957092 ID: 10c408

>>957074
Yeah, being direct is a lot better than my mouthy response that smacks of unintentional hypocrisy.
>>
No. 957094 ID: 015bf2

Krix has done background research on you. No surprise there. You were foisted onto him by Lady Apanya so he'd at least have checked to see what kind of dagger at his back you were intended to be. There's a lot you could unload on him with an open invitation, but with time being short and you appearing too grudge-ridden possibly getting you killed, you should keep any reply simple.

"All I can say is that Sayanos' threats of hurting all my friends and family were far weaker for having so few left to lose."

It implies that threatening friends and family isn't very effective with you. It also outright states that your service was served by your past, however chequered, which isn't something he can really criticize. That you appear to be in the middle of being let go suggests that as long as your actions were justifiable on the surface, he isn't after your blood.

If you can't express anything of the sort without making your bile deep and vicious, just lower your head and say nothing. Better he thinks he successfully shamed you with that deserter comment.

Or you can throw him a few incidental curveballs/rebuttals.

>"May I continue to write Fen?"
>"This prison is a real shithole. Can standards be improved?"
>"What even were your people looking for on those deadland islands?"
>"I've never deserted an Empire army."
>>
No. 957101 ID: bb78f2

Throw the man a boon in exchange for him letting you go just now, information that he might find useful. It may risk making enemies of Cheese and the crows, but I doubt they can hear us down here.

Sir Sayanos's more than likely has a backer of powerful repute and is a friend of the crows, though I do believe their threat and interest in me is minimal. I did some investigating of my own between Sayanos's visits and confirmed this with several sources. They've marked my ex-wife, my associate Gahn and his family, and Sayanos when he was alive as Nonwatchable, and they've made Fen as a neutral party when they were previously allies. I'm not sure if that information's of use to you or not, but I hope it is.
>>
No. 957106 ID: c2f1f6

You've served under him with no problems long after his rebel phase and long before this dark misstep, if he feared you a traitor motivated by revenge he'd've had you dealt with long ago. Since he cares enough to ask, you hope he cares enough to help protect the rest of your friends and family from Sayano's co-conspirators.
>>
No. 957107 ID: 15a025

Mention the captain taking bribes.
>>
No. 957112 ID: 10c408

>>957106
I think you vastly overestimate how much Krix values Moss, whoever is left of Moss's immediate family aside from his ex-wife and Gahn and also how much soft power Krix has/is willing to use on Moss.
>>
No. 957116 ID: 1ed92d

>>957034
Wow. He knows EVERYTHING.

"I feel the same now as I did then."

For all you hate Krix and see him as a traitorous, manipulative bastard who threw good people to the wolves to advance himself...

You must admit, he's incredibly perceptive and his knowledge is far reaching.
>>
No. 957151 ID: c2f1f6

>>957112
I'm thinking he may keep surprising us. That could include killing us as soon as he opens the door or maybe he'll deign to throw some token security their way, But I don't want to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory by pissing him off at the last second.
>>
No. 957155 ID: 4f51b2

Is Krix a mix a of a mountain kobold and a field kobold?
>>
No. 957157 ID: 3ce8ff

>>957112
this seems to largely be a case of 'I don't really care, but I can't condone killing nobles, so go away and don't bother me' with a possible 'good luck with whatever you do next'
>>
No. 957164 ID: a0dfd2

>>957157

Agreed. Some upstart he wanted to get rid of got himself offed without needing to get his hands dirty. He pretends to give a shit about a trial, and comes out clean.

>>957068

Yes, if I'm reading Krix correctly, his use of the term "deserter" is very much an effort to goad us further. He knows we hate his guts, and wants to see if we're fool enough to act on it.
>>
No. 957181 ID: c2ddc6

He could be calling Moss a deserter cuz he wants to frame Moss for deserting the guard so as to have a reason to kill him. While Krix doesn't need a reason to kill Moss, having one could help keep his underlings from being as scared of him.

Idk, my case is flimsy but I have this gut feeling he is going to gut Moss as soon as he walks out of the cell regardless of what he says.
>>
No. 957183 ID: bfd57f

Yeah, can we ask for clarification? Anything to say... in confidence? As a commoner to a noble, a soldier to an officer, or as next of kin to a killer? Dont harangue him for using violence to solve his problems, you are in a cell for murder.
>>
No. 957186 ID: 10c408

>>957157
That's one way to look at it. my take is that Krix disapproves of the entire mess because of how it was handled by a suspected traitor, even though the murder victim had it coming and also that BECAUSE it was a stone noble under Krix he has to personally sort it out instead of continuing to do.. Well, whatever it is that Krix has been up to.

(I'd be very surprised if, in an alternate universe, we made this Krix's problem he would have sided with Sayanos over Moss)
>>
No. 957244 ID: b8dddb

>>957034
“I’m not the kinda guy who likes to pick fights I can’t win. We’re both in our current position not because of some barbarian, but because a particularly opportunistic noble wanted to see what’ll happen. If you care about this whole charade as much as I expect you do, which is to say little more than a passing curiosity, then I hope you’ll see me out of this cell and back at my post. I wouldn’t be able to beat Fen, I wouldn’t be able to beat you, but I could certainly handle some upstart bastard who thought he was ready for political discourse.”
Your best chance is a minor deflection; don’t draw much attention to the whole deserter thing as that will tell him what your future intentions may be, but ignoring it altogether will just solidify whatever opinion he has of you already.
>>
No. 957268 ID: f133dc

It really can't be that easy.

Look, this guy is an asshole, but signing your own death warrant because you hate his guys is not smart. Just like you swallowed your bride when you got kneed in the nuts, you are going to do it here to.

But he wants something. He wants a reason to kill or spare you but I don't feel like he's made his mind up yet.

Tell him Sir Sayanos was a cunt, and a useless asshole, but he DID have someone backing him that had cash and men and influence, though you'd have no idea who.

This is a dangerous move, because if he takes an interest in how you know this he would have the resources to make you tell him. But saying nothing or literally everything everyone else suggested maybe bar one or two suggestions is going to net you a swift execution.
>>
No. 957315 ID: d7664c

Deserter? Im only a deserter because I didn't make a deal first. The only reason I'm in jail for murder is because I didn't make a career out of it. The reason is I'm so damn bad at this shit. If I were vicious and cunning and embittered I'd have gone on the mission, got caught, and let you have dealt with the fallout. Everyone saw lady Apanya foist me onto you, they'll think it was your order. But I'm not and I didn't. I'm trying to be free of the past.
>>
No. 957354 ID: be3967

"Wasn't massacring my village punishment enough for that?"
>>
No. 957357 ID: 864e49

Ask if he knows about your past, if he says yes say nothing, if he says no say nothing, thank him for shutting up the prisoners.
>>
No. 957435 ID: 6a5413

If this is one of those,
"How did you know?"
"You just said so!"
things, some of you fell for it.
>>
No. 957487 ID: c2f1f6

>>957435
Only if the 'how did you know' is us asking how he knew we ditched our shift and ran away to see cheese however many nights ago. Which we will very much not mention at all.
>>
No. 957532 ID: f3f534

With all of these paranoid thoughts going through his head, Moss will finally be able to understand how Fen is always so paranoid.
>>
No. 957596 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158298090840.png - (24.40KB , 800x800 , 1392.png )
957596

I hesitate, because he sounds like he wants some excuse to snap me in half.

He doesn't need an excuse, and if he did, my killing a noble was just that. If he wants me dead, I'm dead.

"Who am I talking to, as? A commoner to a noble? A soldier to an officer?"
>"As you, to me."
"... I'd like to report my captain has been taking bribes."
>"I don't care."
"Oh."

"May I continue to write to Fen?"
>"I don't care." He's still looking at me like he wants something.
"Can standards be improved here? It's hardly better on one side of the bars than the other." Shit, he looks more annoyed than before, maybe that's not good to bring up.
>"I don't care. You are not speaking as yourself towards me, you are speaking of lowly matters you should ask of your captain or the warden."
"... I don't know what you want from me, then. If you want to know more about Sayanos and his threats, they didn't mean much when I had so few friends and family left to lose."
>"And why do you have so few left to lose?"
>>
No. 957597 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158298098449.png - (22.44KB , 800x800 , 1393.png )
957597

Because the rebellion killed everyone who didn't want to join, the rebellion took heavy losses, and because Krix is an asshole. Because there were so many suicide runs that being in the army was a death sentence. That refusing to be in the army was a death sentence. That there were so many rebellions within the rebellion ransacking the country side that even if the army did not ask for us, there was no escape.

"You know my past?"
>"I know nearly all of the surviving members by name, even the deserters. After this long, there are not many left."
"Then you know why I have so few left."

Does he like antagonizing me with stupid questions? But that does tell me he isn't talking about me leaving my guard post. Krix doesn't respond. It's so silent, for once I wish the prisoners would get noisy again. He finally answers.

>"Is that all?"
"You called me a deserter." I barely go over a whisper. I don't want any prisoners to hear this. "Desertion requires legal authority to conscript. Desertion requires being part of something. That rebellion was never there for me. There was nothing to leave except death."
>"You were in my army. You left for the dead island. That is desertion."

He waits. If I make one disrespectful remark at him, I don't know if I can hold back every thing I've ever imagined yelling at him for.

I look at the report. I spent too long on that in order to defend my own life. I spent too much work over the years to keep myself alive. I don't want to throw that away now just to get some stupid quips in, and I've already swallowed my pride once this week.

"Yes, Sir."
>"You were wise to leave my army. If I saw your cowardice back then, I would have killed you myself."

One of the prisoners starts whooping. Krix starts turning to leave.
>>
No. 957599 ID: 48ce40

You could maybe get off an "if I was a coward I wouldn't be here, sir" at him, if you'd like the last word. Or maybe "I look forward to seeing the example of your courage, sir," if you'd like to slide in an insinuation that might be helpful to Fen, implying he's in a situation to show cowardice or not.
>>
No. 957601 ID: ce39da

I guess he wasn’t as lacking in self-awareness as we thought. Really sounds like he’s done some introspection since that time.

“What do you care about, if I might be so bold?”
>>
No. 957602 ID: a0dfd2

>>957597

That is one HELL of a back-handed compliment, but ...

... I think maybe we just impressed the guy, and simultaneously disappointed him?
>>
No. 957603 ID: e2f5cc

You feel like doing something fucking dumb that has an equal chance of getting you serious brownie points as it does getting you killed?

Straighten up your back and look him dead in the eyes while saying "I'm not a coward, Krix." And even if you do show some signs of fear, just remember that true bravery is being scared but powering through anyways.
>>
No. 957604 ID: 7e0898

It doesn't matter, it won't bring anybody back. You can tell that to him or just yourself, it also doesn't matter. You aren't a young man looking for revenge or to prove himself anymore, you got that out of your system in the REAL army.

However, Cheese mentioned you might get a pat on the back from krix for killing Sayano. You may want to consider acting out if only for that.
>>
No. 957605 ID: ca15e3

Stay silent.
>>
No. 957609 ID: 3986df

He will get what he deserves. It might not be by your hand, but someone will do it, most probably Fen. If you want to do somthing about that, you can look for a why to help him. If not, just keep doing what you are doing: staying alive and keeping alive those who matter to you.

What do you really want to do? Survive? Fight? Escape? You can choose, as long as you don't have regrets later.
But you have to pick one.
>>
No. 957610 ID: 0d882b

If he's been that good at remembering, he'll know you served again.
"Did I prove my bravery under your command, helping you quell new armies, sir?"
>>
No. 957611 ID: 86eb65

"I am not a coward now Krix. I was not a coward back then."

"If I was a coward years ago I would have been too afraid to leave."

"If I was a coward today I would not have killed Sayano. I would have ran. And I certainly would not be saying this to a man three times my size who could tear me in half as easy as breathing."

"When the rebellion started I was a kid. I never got to be on your personal team. I never got to choose to join. I was dragged along and given barely any training and I only ever saw you at a distance."
>>
No. 957616 ID: fa2754

>>957597
Ask if you're going to rot in this cell.
>>
No. 957621 ID: 015bf2

How much have you ever investigated the circumstances of the rebellion and Krix's role in it, apart from regular rumours? It wasn't like you ever met in person during the rebellion, right? He could be responsible for less of the shitty stuff than you attribute.

That said, it's painfully obvious he's speaking at you from a way different point of view. You may be a northerner, but you were never after glory and riches. You weren't even after something weird like love. Your basic goals were survival, safety, stability, with revenge getting tagged on at the end - those were things you could fight for, not a nebulous, shittily ran rebellion that did nobody good but Krix - a fact he just emphasized by stating there were few enough survivors left for him to remember most of their names.

(Side note: Really, that few left? That's a pretty shitty survival statistic for people serving under him. Let it reaffirm your desertion decision. Or give you serious cause for concern about the average kobold's lifespan.)

He can call you a deserter and coward all he likes, but you went on to put your life on line in the Dragon's Army - at times under the damn guy, even if at a distance - so it doesn't exactly hold water. But you don't need to point that out. You know better than anyone that swimming several fucking miles of ocean after weeks of misery and deprivation and loss builds character, so if Krix's conclusion is that you're a useless slab of meat who won't give him the honor of straightforward hate, then he can go right on continuing being disappointed, because you're not gonna waste your fight and your life like he wasted his troops back then.

Bite back any quick retorts and instead consider what kind of impression he's given you. A very blunt, almost stoic, don't-give-a-damn-about-details, warrior-proud bastard who doesn't show weakness or fear, who will use bravery as a measure and bludgeon both against others... right? His way of behavior is definitely something Fen could use knowing. He also showed that he is more well-informed and thinks intelligently about things he cares about, perhaps more than you've imagined, for all that he kept sending people to their deaths... I mean, he clearly feels something about the way his rebellion was run if he goes to the length of keeping track of every single survivor.

Why would he even do that? Vanity? Guilt? Fear of revenge?

Another thing is that he seems to not give a fart about your legal justifications for Sayanos' murder - Cheese must've been on the money with Sayanos not being worth a whit - but he was curious about why you didn't obey his order to kill Fen. It's also clear that he dislikes you for abandoning his rebellion and disliked you not airing your grievances to him - and was keenly aware of both. Without being duplicitous or letting much on, he was happy to let you talk your way into trouble, one way or the other. Noble cloak and dagger stuff, people hiding their intent and beliefs, being indirect, disobeying orders, seems to be the things that make him annoyed.

You still have an opportunity to gain something else from the encounter - for yourself, or for Fen. A last-minute question may get a response.

>"Why did you even rebel? What was it all for?"
>>
No. 957622 ID: 6c227a

Idiot. He was looking for you to show a backbone and you blew it.
>>
No. 957623 ID: 015bf2

>>957616
The Warden was told to release Moss. Nor has he been told he's been fired as a palace guard, so... he probably still works for Krix, it's just that Krix may have decided to not give a fuck about him or the fact that he's friends with Fen?

So... things are going better than expected?

After Krix leaves it may be up to some of his next-in-commands to consider what to do with Moss, like the warden or captain, though if Krix doesn't give them anything to go on, they may be leery to mess with him, just as they were leery to initially mess with him, because Krix appointed him to this role.

Moss should probably take that report he wrote and deliver it to the warden and tell them to make of it what they will. The prisoners may hoot some stuff out from what they overheard, but probably most of the stuff they'll hoot will be about Moss being a deserter coward. Chicken nickname intensifies.

It's gonna be a pretty outrageous tale for anyone not in the know. Moss stabbed a stone noble to death, only to get told by his gold boss - who visited him personally - that he was a damn coward and a deserter... before being released and put back into his position without further comment or punishment.
>>
No. 957624 ID: b1b4f3

>>957597
Take a hint, stupid. He wants you to let it all out. He outright said that it was not commoner to noble. Tell him your personal grievances.
Just uh, warn him first that you may start yelling at him.
>>
No. 957625 ID: 91ee5f

>>957597
Moss, you’ve said what you wanted to say, now would be a good time to keep your mouth shut.

Krix has told the warden to set you free and he never said that you were fired, so let’s just assume that you’ve still got your job. It’s time for you to get back to work.

>>957616
The answer is no. Krix told the warden to free us, so we’re free to go back to our post.
>>
No. 957628 ID: bb78f2

>>957597
A wise commonor lives longer in our system. The brave ones always die young. The lucky then profit off the brave. The strong cannot be brave, and if they're wise and strong, they're lucky.
>>
No. 957629 ID: c2f1f6

Ask him why not kill you now, then. He won't do it, Apanya's got him shit-scared and you can say that to his face. If you need a good lead in to opening up on him that isn't just trying to save face at the last minute, that's it.
>>
No. 957632 ID: ca4acd

>>957629
NO. BAD IDEA.
Just shut up now. No need to reduce previous survival efforts to waste. Krix's esteem is not important.
>>
No. 957634 ID: c2f1f6

>>957632
I think we've learned from Krix ripping people's arms off like he's plucking daisies off the side of the road that he doesn't need an excuse to kill people. He's already ordered the warden to free Moss, and has made the decision to let him live. We need to take risks at some point.
>>
No. 957640 ID: b1b4f3

Moss decided he wanted to impress Krix and climb the ranks, being considered a coward will not do that.
That said, he shouldn't say anything directly provocative. It'll be hard! Maybe he can do it though!
>>
No. 957641 ID: 10c408

>>957634
Killing Sayanos was a risk that we took, though. We got super lucky that the corrupt captain decided to arrest us instead of killing Moss and throwing the dead guy under the bus to cover up his own personal crimes.

And now that Krix has repeatedly stated he doesn't care you want to "take risks"?

Sorry, but no. Terrible idea all around.

"Next time I'll make sure to threaten the treasonous stone noble with the knife instead of stabbing his foot when he assaults me, sir."

Say this instead.

Give the warden the letter and tell him that you'll go back to work as expected and he can do with that as he pleases.
>>
No. 957650 ID: 15a025

Take the report and leave before he changes his mind.
>>
No. 957651 ID: 015bf2

>>957628
Hmm. Not sure mentioning commoner wisdom would have much effect at all, least of all on Krix the Warlord. Remember, this is a warrior culture that looks down on people who are too crippled to fight, so supposed 'cowards' likely face similar stigma. I mean, Krix is applying that stigma against Moss right now! For all we know he blames deserters for his rebellion being so suck, too, and not, y'know, whatever other factors also played a part, like poor leadership and shitty morale.

Krix be like: "Fight these many risky, suicidal battles or you be a coward who I will kill myself."

Kobold, not motivated, be like: "Yeah, uh, you can't be everywhere, so I'mma just leave when you're not around."

Krix, the charmer, cont'd: "Weak-minded cowards, you deserve nothing but death and my scorn."

Here's another cheery thought. Now that the prisoners have overheard this they will likely pass it on to every guard. If trust is a currency down here, Krix may have tanked Moss' bank. We'll see. Nawm's been pretty supportive. If that cools down fast, it'll be a pretty clear sign.

>>957629
If anything, he might kill (or maul) Moss for trying to hide behind Lady Apanya's authority like, y'know, some coward. And however else we think about it, we are hiding behind Krix's authority to get away with killing Sayanos. Sure, Sayanos was trash, should never have been a noble, was being manipulated like an idiot and royally had it coming, but Krix being a Gold and not giving a shit is what's allowing Moss to 'get away' with murder. We've knowingly abused Krix's authority, even if we weren't sure it'd work. I wonder if that's not something Krix might be sore about, despite how he should be happy Sayanos bit it.

That's the Northern Empire, though. Nobles and their people can get away with anything they can justify, unless there are stronger nobles who take issue or stronger opponents who coup them through assassination, scheming or rebellions.

>>957640
>Impressing Krix plan
Got put on life support when Krix showed up knowing everything about Moss' past, figured out the letters to Fen and started probing Moss' sentiments. The trouble is that Moss really truly hates Krix and the Warlord knows Moss has proven himself as 'a deserter' in the past. Krix may not have any reason to kill him right now, but Moss will always have trouble endearing himself to Krix directly. I have a hard time seeing what might salvage the trust plan. Maybe a different tack is needed from here on?

If you're really intent on spilling some beans, perhaps suggest something that gives Moss and Krix both an outlet for their frustrations. For example:

"Spar against me then, Warlord. I get to prove myself stupidly brave and you get to break my bones. Everyone wins."

That's the kind of risky display of daring that might purchase us something like respect if Krix is warrior culture enough to go for it and you give a good showing. It also gives Moss a chance to see how Krix fights, which is something he can report to Fen - if he survives. Practically a win-win there, except for the maybe death and dismemberment and Krix being sure to use the opportunity to try to shame Moss further.
>>
No. 957655 ID: c2f1f6

>>957651
I am willing to accept that calling Krix shit-scared to his face is a bad idea if we don't ask him to spar.

I'm still genuinely curious why he doesn't try to kill us though.
>>
No. 957660 ID: 10c408

>>957655
Either because we've done him a favor by killing sayanos, he doesn't mind that we killed one of his uppity and treasonous nobles going behind his back or that he doesn't consider us a threat.

Or it could very well be all of the above. Krix's directness and brutality is making sussing out his motivation's really hard, aside from the one he admitted before snapping someone's hand off like an errant and brittle twig.
>>
No. 957667 ID: b1b4f3

>>957660
This isn't questdis, you don't have to reply to everyone.
>>
No. 957892 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158332860765.png - (23.68KB , 800x800 , 1394.png )
957892

"Sir."

He stops moving, and for a second so does my heart. Showing a backbone is a good way to get it broken.

"I joined the empire's army afterwards. I fought rebellions."
>"What of it?"
"I am not a coward."
>"Oh? Tell me something. Do you want to kill me?"
"What? I couldn't, and why do you think I - "
>"Do not dodge my question, wretch! Answer me to my face without your diplomatic bullshit!"
>>
No. 957893 ID: 86eb65

A coward would not tell him the truth.

Tell him what you think of him. That he might be a great warlord but all you ever saw was a bad leader who ruined your life and a lot of other lives before giving up his grand rebellion and taking a desk job for his enemy.

Even if you were not strong enough back then to keep going he should have been. Why did he buckle to the empire?

Long story short you did want to kill him for years. But never got strong enough on your own to ever make the attempt. Then you got lazy and got easy guard duty and were on the track to never making anything of yourself until you met Fen and got inspired by him.
>>
No. 957895 ID: eebcc3

You know you should probably thank Krix because without him doing this you would have never realized that you have been a coward for the past several years wasting your life away at a dead-end job until Fen came through and it woke your stupid ass up.

So not only have you been a coward but you've been blaming all the problems you could have fixed years ago on the warlord.
>>
No. 957896 ID: a0dfd2

>>957892

Remember, there's a difference between wanting him dead, and doing it yourself.

You hate him to hell and back, but you're very aware there's no way you'll ever be able to get your revenge alone.

May as well tell him that much: you know your limits, even if you would perhaps rejoice for his death.
>>
No. 957897 ID: 437fa8

>>957893
>>957895

Some good points here. You might not have been a coward when you ran to the island. Or when you joined the army. But after you finished your army time? You lost any drive you had and got lazy. Hiding from your wife and blaming your past with Krix for all your current problems.

So yeah you were a coward for years. But today you are the guy who stabbed a noble for giving you shit.

Tell Krix the truth.

But remember that other than running a failed rebellion that your family got caught up in many years ago he has done nothing to you personally. Do you really want to kill him or are you just angry with yourself for your own weakness?
>>
No. 957898 ID: 8d23f0

>>957892
If you had him at the executioners block you would gladly swing the blade, so yes you want to kill him but your not brave enough to try.
>>
No. 957899 ID: 3ce8ff

Yes, but like lowkey. Not enough to devote your life to it, but if there was a 'kill Krix' button you would probably press it.
>>
No. 957900 ID: d2de35

Fuck it. Just say yes already.
>>
No. 957901 ID: e2f5cc

>>957892
"Yes."

And look him in the eyes when you say it. If he was going to kill you he'd do it just because you said yes, so you basically only stand to gain brownie points from doing additional dumb shit
>>
No. 957903 ID: 19fdd8

>>957892
"No. I want you to see everything you've worked for, anything you've ever felt more than a waste of space, torn from you. I want to see what passes for your soul leak out of you. I want to destroy you."
>>
No. 957904 ID: affa27

>>957901
This
>>
No. 957905 ID: c2f1f6

You know he's going to call you a coward because you haven't tried to kill him, right?
>>
No. 957907 ID: b8dddb

>>957892
Don’t. Say. A thing. If you admit out loud you do wish to kill him, he’ll most likely take it as some form of challenge, either for now or some point close in the future OR he’ll just kill you to be free a potential threat.
Of course, you can’t lie either; he obviously already knows the truth and just wants to hear it. Don’t give him any satisfaction from this encounter. You’re supposedly already going to be freed (if you overheard things correctly) so this is really your best chance at ending this encounter on your own terms.
>>
No. 957908 ID: f32258

Tell him if you could, you would, yes. Unfortunately might makes right here, and Krix has more than you do.
>>
No. 957909 ID: fa2754

You would if you could but you can't so you won't.
>>
No. 957911 ID: 015bf2

Take a deep breath, grit your teeth and meet his eyes. Don't yell. Maintain a firm voice.

"Yes, I want you dead, Warlord Krix."

Pause. Think.

"But you already knew or suspected. You've kept tabs on survivors. Lady Apanya... did she know of your interest? Is that why she put me in your service?"

Let the thought soak in that your life got fucked up again because Krix gave too much of a shit about you.
>>
No. 957912 ID: 46cfb5

>>957892
"Yes."
He'll probably follow up with "Why don't you?" or something, at which point you'll have no choice but to admit your personal weakness at the present moment.
If only you had been actually training and pushing yourself all these years, instead of being a guard.
U wimpy boi.
>>
No. 957913 ID: b1b4f3

>>957892
Answer him.
>>
No. 957922 ID: b6e7b6

Fuck it, say it.
>>
No. 957933 ID: 6c227a

"I want to kill you for what happened to my town and my family. I do not want the things that would happen to other people and towns if I did."
>>
No. 957936 ID: bb78f2

>>957892
Yes. You're among many who deserve to die. I won't even try to do it, but I want to.
>>
No. 957947 ID: 48ce40

Don't just say "yes". Say "I want to see you get what you deserve. Whatever shape it takes". That's just as honest, and to be frank, you probably wouldn't mind him living if he still got some awful punishment, would you? What you really want is retribution for what he did. Killing is just one of many options. It's not diplomatic bullshit, it's the truth. More truth than just saying you want to kill him.

At this point, though, obeying him barking at you is pretty cowardly in itself. He's clearly mad, which means he's emotional enough that he probably won't be moved from his opinion of you right now. You're not going to gain anything, and might lose, if - for example - there's some sneaky imperial agent person you haven't seen standing by to be a witness to your words. You never know. So maybe you should just say "I'm not an idiot, either." Or something like that.
>>
No. 958405 ID: 1ed92d

>>957892
Be honest. You want to kill him SO HARD for getting everyone you cared about killed.
>>
No. 958406 ID: c2f1f6

Do we really? If you kill him now, nothing will really change. Nobody will come back. You may, however, tell him you should have killed him long ago.
>>
No. 959600 ID: f803ef

>>957933
This.
>>
No. 959834 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158533525968.png - (36.79KB , 800x800 , 1395.png )
959834

"I want to see you dead whether by my hand or another, or failing that, to see you get what you deserve." It won't bring anyone back, but neither I nor my family would be happy seeing him be high and mighty after all he's done.

He smiles.

>"You despise me, yet in my own land, you've fought nothing but rebellions?"
"The only thing different about rebellions I've seen is that they don't give themselves self important seals and titles."
>"Ha ha ha ha ha! Now you speak the truth. You want me dead. Fen is my enemy, and I believe you have more interest in his mission than you let on. You may continue your job here and waste away, but if you wish to do more with your life you've clung so hard to, than accept my offer to promote you to field marshal. You will have impunity to act within my domain, and lesser impunity to act outside of it."
"That job still exists? I thought they all got murdered for being seen as murderous tyrants. And from what I've heard, rightfully so."
>"You are correct. If you accept this job, you will be the only field marshal at this time."
"And what do you expect me to do, besides getting woken up with a knife in my back?"

Krix leans in.

>"You will shed your cowardice and do something worth doing. The nobles that hunt Fen do so against my will. With the assistance of my spy network, you would find which nobles dare this, then slay or jail them. I intend to kill Fen myself so that none may contest who rightfully owns the dragoncloth."
>>
No. 959835 ID: e2f5cc

Agree. You'll be able to help Fen more while being a field marshal than being a random guard, or if that doesn't tickle your fancy quite so much you can at least get justice in some way.

Two important questions though: 1, "Why me?" I can think of a couple reasons but I want to see what he says. And 2, he never gave you a reason to you wouldn't just get merked in your sleep, so at least get an answer to that before committing.
>>
No. 959836 ID: fa2754

Another shot at abusing a noble's power and resources to secretly help Fen. Do not let it slip this time.
>>
No. 959837 ID: 86eb65

I agree then.

Fen would never stand down from a proper duel with you. And all this sneaking around and targeting people's families disgusts me.

I might not like you but if you are honest with your intentions then I can work for you.
>>
No. 959839 ID: 8d23f0

>>959834
honestly take it, don't use the power to undermined Krix though he absolutely is using you and when you become more of a problem for him then a benefit he won't hesitate to kill you, and then you won't be able to help Fen at all.
>>
No. 959841 ID: 567477

I really can't think of a reason to say no. Even if he's just setting you up for a fall, or if he wants to play the "feed the spy misinformation" game, or even if he just wants to make a show of promoting the guy who just killed a lesser noble trespassing on his territory, he'll probably get whatever benefits he wants even if you don't take it. Just the fact that he offered you the position will probably paint that target on your back, and you don't even get the perks of the job for extra protection.

Besides, think of it this way: you get work experience! Once Fen becomes a noble himself, he'll need a good guy on his side, someone who can do this kind of job. You can use Krix to learn the ropes and train your brain (with Cheese's help) to navigate the politics. But you will need to make clandestine contact with Cheese soon about this. Be extra careful about it.
>>
No. 959843 ID: b1b4f3

>>959834
Deal. This lets you protect Fen, kill more shit-tier nobles, and be in a position to aid Fen when he comes for the dragoncloth. The downside is he expects you to be able to kill nobles, which means it's dangerous. Thankfully he'll also want you to be strong enough to do it, so you're gonna get training for it. Time to stop being lazy. Maybe that's another downside for you, haha.
Also time to start sleeping in secure quarters, or learn to sleep lightly. Once you're promoted, people WILL start trying to assassinate you.

Oh. Make one request, that your friends and family be protected while you have this job.
>>
No. 959847 ID: ce39da

“Deal, but I’m not sure if wearing that old hated title is the best idea - maybe a new one; one who makes inquiries upon the nobles and those who carry rank... an Inquisitor?” If he thinks that’s stupid, just huff and relent.

Ultimately, we use our new position to defend Fen from ambitious morons before their schemes have a chance to reach him, and gathering connections, influence, and the occasional secret that might help him when he comes knocking. Nothing else - we don’t want to betray his trust before it’s too late for him to do anything about it.

Our first order of business upon getting situated would be checking in on (and possibly locking down) the executors of all of Sayanos’s threats and confirming the status of those who were threatened. After that bit of cleanup, assuming we aren’t just handed some leads by Krix or one of his agents, we should start with the origin of that bounty; assuming Krix wasn’t lying about his motives, he probably wasn’t the one responsible for it.
>>
No. 959848 ID: c2f1f6

I don't know if he really cares for dragoncloth either. I think he's just bored to tears of smacking down rebellions and wants to get into a good scrape. Even if that's not the reason, it's sure as shit not the one he gave.

That said if somebody's threatened your friends and family, you need to deal with them as soon as possible and can't afford to turn down resources. Cheese... Is doing her best, but you didn't give her much time to work. She can help you, sure, but you need those resources and authority.
>>
No. 959851 ID: a9af05

>>959834
Take the deal.

This also means that you should repay Nawm with food as soon as you can. Because this position will put a target on your back and you can't repay her if you end up getting killed!
>>
No. 959854 ID: b1b4f3

Oh, and don't forget you're not supposed to look him in the eye.
>>
No. 959855 ID: c84ff4

takes heat off fen's back, and I don't really think Krix would care if fen received a message informing him that Krix wanted to kill him himself, in fact he might be MORE upset at you for taking the opportunity from him to do so himself. The friends & family stipulation is a good one though. I am also getting the impression he does like people willing to stand up to him despite having something to lose for doing so. He doesn't want suckups
I also get the impression that while he may be willing to accept words, act wrong and you kinda just get killed. so accept this but don't try to use this position to directly act against Krix, at most leak a key bit of info here and there.
>>
No. 959857 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158534768977.png - (23.33KB , 800x800 , 1396.png )
959857

"I didn't get an answer to how I'm supposed to wake up without knives through me."
>"Do not ask me, ask your experience as a breaktown guard. They do not have good survival rates either."

That's not a fair comparison, but he isn't totally wrong either.

"Then why me?"
>"You have shown the will to kill a noble when pushed. You are no tyrant, nor are you easily swayed by favors or coin. This means you are capable of the title's duties, and will not abuse the power you are granted. Having both qualities alone makes you among the best qualified for this job."
"Even though I'm an enemy?"
>"Hah! I trust you would do your job fine. So you are my enemy? Good! Without enemies, I would become soft. I welcome those who are openly my enemy, such as you and Fen!"
"Then, does it have to be the same hated title?"
>"Yes."
"Can I get protection towards my ex wife?"
>"With the job, you can get it yourself."
"... Fine, I'll accept.
>"Then I will share with you something of interest. I have played along with the idea that Sayanos is dead, but the warden has shown me the corpse. It bears the look and seal of Sayanos, but that man was not Sayanos. Be on the lookout for the real Sayanos, for I am curious what game he is playing. Report to Sir Guhn in this palace when you are ready to be sworn in."

He turns to leave, but glances back at me as he takes a step. I didn't forget that I'm not supposed to look him in the eye, but I keep doing it anyway.

>"I suggest you practice your swordsmanship, as The Articles of Imperical Noblesse state that nobles may challenge a marshal's decision by way of duel." He continues leaving.
>>
No. 959858 ID: c84ff4

later we will also need to look up if it says 'duel' or 'fair duel'
also impressive he was able to find such a good look-alike, also concerning, should he be able to 'find' such look-alikes of others.
>>
No. 959859 ID: e2f5cc

>>959857
"...Then let's practice. I'm sure you'll have fun kicking my teeth in for however long it amuses you, and I need a more tangible goal to work towards."

This plan is less risky than it sounds, since I sincerely doubt he'll just murder you after promoting you, and if you see even a glimpse of how he fights before you wake up in the medical ward, you can give some vital information to Fen. That, and there really is no better training than when you're at your limit, just ask Fen.
>>
No. 959860 ID: bb78f2

>>959857
How certain were you that the guy you stabbed was the same guy that kicked you in the balls. I'm certain, but like, I wanna check with you Moss, you're the one who killed him.

Well shit, we'll need training. Great. Cool. Great, now we need a real mentor. Welp, time to go farm XP or go on an epic quest for a trainer while in the middle of all this.
>>
No. 959861 ID: b1b4f3

>>959857
Alright. Looks like you came out of this in a good position. Get your shit together and leave this jail, immediately report to Sir Guhn. You're gonna need an infodump about what resources you have available, so that you can use those resources to secure your friends and family.
See if they have a uniform and equipment set aside for you. You're gonna want to be armed and armored at all times.

At some point you'll want to get in touch with Cheese again, but Lord Krix did say you have less influence outside his domain. Come to think of it, you might want to send her an urgent message that Sayanos is still alive, you killed an impostor or body double. Tell her you'll pay her if necessary for any information on the real Sayanos.
...shoot, it's gonna be hard to sneak over to the mail drop now that you're a big shot. You may need to use someone else for it if you can't figure out a way to do it yourself without attracting attention. Nawm maybe? Or you could just use someone from your new spy network. Krix might not even care that you're using Cheese as an asset so long as it doesn't interfere with your job.
>>
No. 959862 ID: a9af05

>>959857
>Fake Sayanos
Well, with a combination of Cheese's spies and Krix's spies, it shouldn't be too hard to find the real Sayanos.

> Report to Sir Guhn in this palace when you are ready to be sworn in.
You think this new position will make us a higher rank than Nawm and the other guards?

If it's such a hated position, then would that mean the other guards won't like us either? Moss should work on making friends with the other guards, so that they'll be willing to have his back should he find himself in trouble.

>>959859
That is a stupid idea. Do not ask Krix to practice with us!
>>
No. 959863 ID: e63147

Mention that Sayanos's game probably involved getting Krix on top of Zall's shitlist: Sending one of Krix's own men to kill Fen (and on explicit orders to boot) would have robbed Krix of plausible deniability.
>>
No. 959872 ID: c2f1f6

It brings me great pain that I can't assure you I'm one for one on fighting nobles.

So, priorities; go directly to sir Guhn, clean yourself up before seeing sir Guhn, or get a damned drink before seeing sir Guhn? People might say you need number two, you might say you need number three.
>>
No. 959875 ID: 86eb65

Are you willing or have the time to help train me?

I am rusty to say the least.
>>
No. 959877 ID: b1b4f3

I don't think we should talk to Krix anymore. He's done talking to Moss, and Moss probably doesn't want to talk to him anymore. Probably should avoid talking to Sir Guhn too much, too. We can get a lot of answers to questions from one of our well informed spies.
>>
No. 959883 ID: 91ee5f

>>959857
Moss, here’s a goal for you to work towards: Try to make yourself as buff as Krix.

Even if you don’t get anywhere near his size, working towards that goal should help you improve.

>>959877
I agree. We’ve already said what we needed to say to Krix, so there’s no need to continue speaking with him.
>>
No. 959900 ID: a2d2ad

Write a letter to cheese, send it and go get sworn in. Then get to training with whatever reputable trainers are on hand.
>>
No. 959908 ID: dbd72b

Let him leave. He gave you everything you need.
For now, do exactly as he wants. He's an honest fighter, and given the situation, has literally no reason to bluff you.

And take his advice to heart. Find and hire a real teacher, get those skills, because Sayanos isn't actually brain-dead. Against duels or assassins, right now it's your most reliable defense
>>
No. 959914 ID: 4b7dae

Huh. He likes you. More than that, he -respects- you. That's something powerful, and you're going to want to use it for everything you can. Yes, he knows you're going to turn against him when you get the chance, but he also knows you won't be stupid about it. So don't be.

>>959863
He seems to have come to that conclusion already. That's -why- he's giving you this job.

>>959859
No. Even if this is a good idea, Krix has indicated over and over again that he expects you to solve your own problems. Don't keep testing him.

>>959877
Yes. Let the conversation end on a good note.

>>959900
Yes. Definitely contact Cheese before getting sworn in. This might be the last time you can move around without being noticed for a while.
>>
No. 959924 ID: 1ed92d

>>959857
Make a note to yourself to prepare bottles of flammable liquid and matches to win duels more quickly.

Also, congratulations, now you can kill even more nobles while ensuring that Fen will eventually fight Krix. Then, either Fen will kill Krix, or Krix will kill Fen and then you'll kill him while he's injured from the battle. Win win!
>>
No. 959925 ID: f133dc

Wow.


That was not expected and is... kinda perfect. Other than the sudden need to go toe to toe with a variety of nobles. I mean, you don't like those assholes anymore than he does. But it also gives you a degree of authority you can eventually use against him.

You can't really turn this down. It's like someone offered you a noble position out of nowhere but with no money involved.
>>
No. 959928 ID: 10c408

>>959925
This is a double edge sword.

On the one hand, we can more openly thwart the nobles going around krix's back and rifling through our mail.

On the other we'll probably have to settle for the couple of keys we were able to smuggle out and likely won't be able to 'acquire any more of them.

Let Krix go, we've somehow not died and earned a better position to at least try and off certain scummy nobles.
>>
No. 959964 ID: 15a025

Report to Sir Guhn and let Krix be on his way. Maybe Sir Guhn can point you in the direction of someone that could train you.
It might also be worth reading up on the rules for these "duels".
>>
No. 966248 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158924258286.png - (28.01KB , 800x800 , 1397.png )
966248

I could aim for the moon, ask Krix to spar with me, and then get as buff as him.

I'd rather keep all my teeth and what little dignity I have left, so instead, I'll do neither.

The warden comes back.

>"Lord Krix said to let you do as you please."
"That's a laugh, but nevermind. I've got business to take care of. I won't be working here any longer."
>"Ah. The less I know the better. I'll just go ahead and assume your business doesn't involve being locked in a cell." He unlocks the door for me. "Your severance pay is at the desk on your way out."
"And my badge and uniform?"
>"Drop the uniform at the desk, but keep the badge until you get situated in whatever it is you're doing. You need proof you have palace access, after all."
"Good point. Thanks."
>"Mhm. It was good having you, Moss. You'll be welcomed back here if you ever need to return."
"As a guard, I hope."
>"Haha, yes, none of us would be happy to see you thrown in with the others."
>>
No. 966249 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158924259266.png - (70.15KB , 800x800 , 1398.png )
966249

I leave. The severance pay is only a handful of copper. I write a letter for Cheese to leave at the designated dropoff spot. The letter is kept short, only saying I've gotten promoted and I'll be in contact with her in person soon.
>>
No. 966250 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158924260101.png - (37.91KB , 800x800 , 1399.png )
966250

I get cleaned up in the palace. Sir Guhn won't be impressed with my several-days-in-a-cell stink. Or maybe he won't care, but I'm not impressed with it. It's weird to think that if this goes as planned, I'm going to outrank the other guards, warden and all. I don't know how they view the job. Even if it's bad... they know me. I'm just Moss.

They might not think that. Now they might think I'm Field Marshal Moss... and that just doesn't have a good ring to it. I should at least say goodbye to Nawm. Later, and when she's out of her shift. I don't need to go back to the dungeon.

>"Hey, Moss?"
"Yeah?"
>"We finished cleaning your clothes an hour ago. Don't you have places to be?"
"You don't know that, Shesh."
>"Am I wrong?"
"No... no, no, you're right. I'll be on my way."

No more stalling, then.
>>
No. 966251 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158924262389.png - (31.23KB , 800x800 , 1400.png )
966251

With a few directions from nearby palace helpers, I make it to Sir Guhn's office and tell him who I am.

>"Ah. Here to fill the position of Field Marshal, then."
"Once I have a few questions answered."
>"Yes?"
>"What resources do I have?"
>"You start with 20 silver, a gold plated badge, and an assistant. The pay is 3 silver a week."
"A gold... is there another badge I can get that isn't a shiny 'kill me and rob my corpse' placard?" He raises his brow at me. He doesn't explain why.
>"No, there isn't. Any other questions?"
"Do I get any armor?"
>"Use the 20 silver."
"That's not enough money for a decent set of equipment."
>"Use your own money, then. Field mar... " He looks at my expression. ".... No money? Okay. Show your badge to one of the palace blacksmiths, or the armory if you want to find an existing fit immediately."
"Is that paid by the palace, or are they made to just give a Field Marshal anything he demands?" He looks more confused than ever.
>"Anyone you show your badge to is supposed to be honored to supply a field marshal with his needs. In a blacksmith's case, it's good for their reputation."
"If you say so. You mentioned an assistant?"
>"Yes. It's optional, but I'm assuming you have none of your own. So, I suggest taking one of my own recommendations. They will be knowledgeable, willing to do busywork, and sworn to serve you and you alone. Yes, even before Lord Krix."
"I was also told that I might need to duel nobles. Do they need to be fair duels?"
>"By law, yes. A duel can be any set of rules if both duelists agree, but if either one disagrees, then the duel must use default rules. Sword fight, no armor, honor yields, et cetera. The rules themselves go into more detail, but... by the sheer quantity of questions you're asking, I think I'm just going to introduce you to the possible assistants I have, and you can have them give you all the answer your heart thirsts for. Or, are you ready to take the oath, now?"
>>
No. 966254 ID: b1b4f3

>>966251
Won't take long to meet the assistants, will it? Plus, we can gauge their personalities better by asking them these questions.
>>
No. 966255 ID: e2f5cc

"Yes, I'll talk to your assistants. Although, where can I find the exact "default" rules for a duel? Or should I ask an assistant about that."
>>
No. 966260 ID: 86eb65

Lead me to the assistants.

What does the oath entail?
>>
No. 966262 ID: e25d3f

>>966251
Hold it. Can we pick our own assistant outside of your recommendations? Could we pick, say, Nawm as our assistant?
>>
No. 966268 ID: 4f51b2

>>966251
Tell him to show you the assistants.
>>
No. 966269 ID: ed763f

Let's take the oath now so we'll have some authority first.
>>
No. 966270 ID: d6ecf5

Yeah, meet the assistants first. Diving headlong into things, in this job, is a fast track to an early grave.
>>
No. 966281 ID: adb916

assistants first
>>
No. 966283 ID: b34040

Sir Guhn's probably right in that we're not going to learn everything we need to know with a single Q&A session. Might as well get sworn in, pick an assistant, and then we can get caught up on all the most important things by said assistant.
>>
No. 966284 ID: 91ee5f

>>966251
Let’s meet the possible assistants. After we pick one, we’ll be ready to get sworn in.

>>966262
That’s a terrible idea! Nawm won’t know what to do and won’t have any knowledge that would help us!

Let’s just stick with picking an assistant that’s already qualified for the job.
>>
No. 966304 ID: 567477

You're going to want Cheese's advice picking your assistant, I'd bet at least half the ones on offer will be working for someone else. You probably have at least some time to settle in.
>>
No. 966305 ID: 99d5e0

>>966254
This sounds great. Do this.
>>
No. 966319 ID: dbd72b

Assistants. Looks like we're gonna need them.
>>
No. 966332 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158930450202.png - (103.63KB , 800x800 , 1401.png )
966332

"Show me, then."

He gestures, and I follow him to a back area. There two field kobolds and a mountain, it looks like. They look tired, but they seem to try their best to hide it as they pay attention. It doesn't look like they were waiting for me this whole time. Sir Guhn speaks to them first.

>"This is Moss, who will be the new field marshal upon swearing in. Introduce yourselves, then answer his questions." Guhn doesn't wait for them to continue before going back to his desk.

>"I'm Nabby!" says the one in back, on my left. "I'm from a town once called Highstop, now known as Corpsebury! I stayed out of that area once Corpsebury earned its namesake."
>"I'm Daspotta!" says the mountain in front. "I'm from Poluputus, but I travelled the region too much to say I'm from any one town. As 7th in line to inherit my mother's wood title, so I'm working here!"
>"Vark." says the last, back and right. "I was born in the middle of a farm and have only lived in unnamed break towns. A long and uninteresting tale later, I ended up here."
>>
No. 966333 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158930454805.png - (32.39KB , 800x800 , 1402.png )
966333

"First of all, can I choose my own assistant outside of Sir Guhn's recommendation?"
>"Yes!" says Nabby, hardly as soon as I finish speaking the last word. "You don't have to pick one of us, but we're trained for the job."
>"There's nothing stopping you from taking one of us and anyone else you know." Daspotta adds.
"Okay. What exactly is the oath - ?"
>"To serve as an extra arm of the gold title!" Daspotta doesn't wait for me to finish, and for an instant she puts on a look that makes it look like she committed a worse deed than interruption. She's quick to regain herself. "To work when bureaucracy is inflexible and seemingly corrupt, in the best intent of the spirit of the gold title and law! It's a short oath, but I think it describes the job well, which is to make sure the public and lower nobility is working in the gold's, and therefore empire's best interests."
>"We have a book for it all." Nabby points to a small bookcase to the side. "It has everything in there, including the word for worth oath you would take, but it's as Dospotta says. It's not a long oath, and to be honest, a lot of the job is up to your own interpretation. People have said it means stepping in when local authority is inept or corrupt."
"Does that book have the rules on duels?"
>"Yes." Nabby says.
>"Would you like to know them?" asks Daspotta.
"Please."

Daspotta rattles off an extremely lengthy description that sounds like it's word for word what would be in the book. It's a verbose way of describing an unarmored sword fight, and it sounds like it was revised over and over again as people started arguing over what was a sword and what counted as armor.
>>
No. 966334 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158930461377.png - (66.30KB , 800x800 , 1403.png )
966334

A certain amount of dirtiness, and certain areas having scrapes and thinned fur tells me that they're doing tough labor in or around the palace. There's a tinge of desperation here as they look uncomfortably eager to answer my next question, except for the one who hasn't said anything.

"Vark, right? If you want people to think your tale is long and uninteresting, don't tell them it's long and uninteresting. If you said that to trick me into being curious about you, well, good job, because it worked. Don't tell me your life story, but summarize a few more details for me."
>"I was born into a group of bandits. We were caught, you can fill in the details to what happened to the group, but as you can see, I wasn't one of the ones slain. Now I'm here, with a few whip scars for being a bandit and more for not being the best at subservience."
>>
No. 966336 ID: d80c1d

Pick them all and see who works out best.
>>
No. 966337 ID: 1ed92d

>>966334
Vark. Her life as a wandering murderer will help us in cutting through red tape and the throats of those who would harm us.

We should also recruit Nawm. It'll be nice to have a closer confidante.

I agree with picking everyone and selecting the best in PRINCIPLE, but while they're all capable aides, there's no reason we can't just maintain contact if we need to.
>>
No. 966340 ID: 99d5e0

Man this is hard to choose.
Vark reminds me of Nawm, so that is a good point in my book.
Dospotta seems eager. Too eager.
Nabby doesnt look out of the ordinary.
>>
No. 966341 ID: 567477

Daspotta is the one to go for if you want to know all the technical details, laws, and to have facts memorized for you, seems like. Literate. If I weren't being suspicious of spies at all I'd pick her, but in that scenario she's a pretty obvious spy given an existing noble connection... which, in fact, makes me think she's less likely to be a spy, since "someone with a noble connection good at memorizing facts" sounds like obvious spy material, including the "oh a mountain they can't be sneaky" presumption. Nabby hasn't given much away at all. Vark seems like the one for someone who's suspicious of spies to take, which makes me think maybe she is the spy. It could be reverse psychology, but I don't think anyone wanting a spy on you would think you're that smart. So, my vote is for Daspotta. Do you have to hire them right away, though? They could wait a day or two, if they have no other opportunities waiting and you're willing to tip them some room and board. You could even trial all three of them for a little while before choosing one. Why not?

Ask Nabby to explain his story a bit more, and ask all three of them how exactly they came to be "trained for the job", and what skills they have that fit that.

In other notes to make, I notice the oath is to serve "the gold title", not actually the gold noble themselves? So, if your honor was prickling, you could justify betraying the current holder if you're convinced the person it'd be passed to would do a better job, and it'd overall be better for "the title".
>>
No. 966345 ID: 86ac7b

Hire all three on a probationary basis. It will take weeks to figure out if they are any good.
>>
No. 966347 ID: 4f51b2

Ask more of the other two. Despota is trying to do merits to inherent the wood title. Ask what habilites he poses.
>>
No. 966348 ID: e2f5cc

First, obviously attain Nawm if she's willing. It'll be good to have someone you can smirk at and say "Fuck you, cunt" to while she does the same back while otherwise dealing with shitty politics.

Absolutely not Despotta. She's too eager, and will absolutely say the wrong thing at the wrong time more than once.

Nabby... Isn't bad, actually. If you have the competence in Nawm or maybe even Vark, you can probably ignore his inexperience while he gets to grips with the things you want him to do, and I see a genuine determination in him, so him being extremely useful feels more like a when rather than an if.

Vark I do like, but her and Nawm together sounds like a recipe for infighting and we have an established rapport with Nawm, so I'd much rather choose her.

Hard no on recruiting all three/four too. Let's keep things tight so we minimize any leaks.

All in all, my vote is for Nawm and Nabby, or Vark and Nabby if Nawm doesn't want to come along for whatever reason.
>>
No. 966350 ID: 015bf2

>>966332
Nabby is a potential kindred spirit - you’ve both lost homes. Could become the most loyal of the three, nothing to tie them down or feel grudge over.

Daspotta is eager and got a good memory, which could be useful when arguing legalities, but he has something to lose and his eagerness will get him in trouble. He seems to realize the latter, though. Could wean him off it. Get the impression he got put in this lineup as a snub or punishment but hasn’t clued in. Also got that toughness going for ‘im.

Vark is clearly not keen to do this, but a cynical mindset could come in handy, being well-travelled is a plus and you can deal with some insubordination. Ex-bandit, though. Might not be good chemistry. Then again, they didn’t get much choice in life so might grow into it.

Doesn’t seem like the cream of the crop, but could be worse. Might want to quiz them a bit more. If we have to pick now, get Despotta.

Ask them to name one good thing about themselves, then one about one of the others, if they can. As long as it’s something that might come of use to you in your duties. If they have a weak point they are aware of, they should also share it.

>Nawm
While recruiting Nawm is possible remember that you have a budget, and that this budget will likely be woefully inadequate if you’re supposed to get supplies from people through goodwill alone. Can you easily equip two people, let alone three?
>>
No. 966351 ID: 015bf2

>>966350
She, Despotta is a she, you bastard brain of mine.
>>
No. 966352 ID: 91ee5f

>>966348
>Hard no on recruiting all three/four too. Let's keep things tight so we minimize any leaks.
I agree. We don’t need all of them.
>>
No. 966355 ID: ed763f

We'll need at least two, maybe three people to delegate to to start. We'll need one with you as an assistant/secretary/bodyguard etc, one to watch over Gahn and his family and one to watch over your ex-wife. You can do one of those jobs yourself, but it's nice to be able to delegate. Nabby & Despotta both seem extremely competent and Vark likely knows how to get her hands dirty and is willing to give nobles black eyes- see if any of your guard buddies are interested in crap pay for dangerous work for another field agent alongside Vark and then pick either Nabby or Despotta as an assistant. If your guard pals are happy where they're at, take all three.
>>
No. 966356 ID: d186fc

>>966350
There are probably ways of making money, and if all else fails, we can go hunting (I cant remember if there are laws about hunting, but even if it is banned, we are most likely above that).

For assistants, Nawm is a given. For a second, I would say Vark since they seem the least likely to kiss up to us.
>>
No. 966358 ID: 89ae2b

Interesting that the oath mentions "the gold title". That could be interpreted as meaning Moss is to serve Krix's job description, rather than the individual.
>>
No. 966360 ID: b1b4f3

>>966334
Tell them you're probably going to be killing nobles. How do they feel about that?
>>
No. 966361 ID: ce39da

“If there’s something you’d describe as something you specialize in, what would it be? What would you say your greatest weakness is when it comes to performing in this position? Do you agree with the others’ answers?”

If Vark says she already told us her weakness (problems with authority), just say “I figured.”

Oh, also: “Will I be expected to prosecute the cases I head? If so, should I get myself a decent set of clothes if I’m to appear in court frequently? I’m not too keen on ‘execute first, trial later’ martial justice, you see.”
>>
No. 966398 ID: 6ca734

Either Daspotta or Vark, both if you can mange it. I like that idea, Daspotta your clean right hand, to extend in friendship and to move with knowledge of the law; then Vark your greasy left hand, moving in the dark, gathering intel. Lethal combination.

After that’s sorted and the oath is taken, find Nawm, ask her if she wants to be companion to a Field Marshal. Bigger target on her back, but she gets more autonomy. She’s trustworthy, and that counts for a lot, it’d be nice to have her on your side.
>>
No. 966399 ID: ea75a5

We should prod their loyalty before we choose someone.
Dospotta: if your mother was Hypothetically found to be corrupt or inept, would you continue to support me in arresting her?
Nabby: let’s say there was a Noble who was directly causing Corpebury to be what it is but they were found innocent of corruption or ineptitude, would you want to disobey law to bring them down.
Vark: let’s say the person or persons who whipped you was in the room with us right now and you were holding a knife, would you drop it or kill them.
When they answer ask them to explain why they chose their answers.
>>
No. 966520 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158940727984.png - (15.58KB , 800x800 , 1404.png )
966520

"Is there a reason I can't just recruit all three of you?"

All three think I'm asking Vark, which gives her time to answer.

>"Just one." Vark answers simply.
>"There can be more than one field marshal, so Sir Guhn can't just give away all of us." says Nabby.
>"Hrm." Vark speaks again. "There's only been one field marshal at a time for years. You might be able to convince Sir Guhn of it."
>"No." Guhn calls out from the other room. "One assistant, Moss. That's it. If you choose one and it doesn't work out, you can exchange them for one of the others."
>>
No. 966521 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158940729329.png - (98.03KB , 800x800 , 1405.png )
966521

"Nabby, explain your story a bit more. Then explain how all three of you exactly became trained to do this job."
>"Right! I was in the local militia for Highstop, but when a revolution deposed the mayor, I joined the proper military. An injury I received in town kept me in book duty, where Lord Knight Papaiyin thought me capable enough to work in the palace, then I was chosen to train for field marshal assistance. We dedicate ourselves to the job, but once we pass, we then have to wait for a field marshal to swear in. Because of how few field marshals are made, we can wait a very long time. We have to earn our keep as we wait. I do construction, Daspotta works a bread mill, and Vark cleans the lower kitchens."
"Alright. One at a time, please tell me a good thing or two about youselves that would help with the job."
>"I'm good at equipment maintenance, and decent in a fight." Nabby continues, then lets Daspotta talk.
>"I'm very knowledgable about books and how nobility works. I'm short, but I can lift a whole lot, so if you need a cart full of stuff pulled, I can do that just fine!"
>"I'll watch your back, because... " Vark hesitates, then continues to talk at a low enough voice for Sir Guhn not to hear. "Because if you die, your assistant dies too."
"Why am I just learning about that?"
>"Oh..." says Daspotta, who whispers as well. "We're not to bring up things that are not a concern to the Field Marshal. But since Vark said it... she is right. That's what makes this dangerous, but even though hard labor around the palace and be, well, hard, we all need to make something of ourselves. Even if the chance of death is high."
>>
No. 966522 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158940730222.png - (89.77KB , 800x800 , 1406.png )
966522

Vark whispers to me next.

>"The last field farshal didn't even make it out of town. Her assistant ran away, but there's a minor bounty for her that got claimed. I do want this job just to help put this damn bandit reputation behind me, but I won't beg for it."
"Alright, next question. The oath was to uphold the gold title, not the gold noble?"
>"That's right, but be very careful about thinking that way!" Daspotta takes this one. "The writing there is meant to uphold the empire's idea of a gold noble, and if the empire didn't think he was worthy of being a gold noble, he wouldn't be a gold noble, right? So, if a field marshal thought their gold noble was acting out of line, it would be wiser to bring the reasoning to the imperial palace, not for that field marshal to act on their own."
"Why did they not just say gold noble, then?"
>"Maybe to avoid confusion of if that means only the current gold noble, or the gold noble at any given moment? I'm sorry, I know many laws as they are written, but I don't know a lot of the how or why." I'd be surprised if even the lawmakers were thinking through the hows or whys.
>>
No. 966523 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158940731121.png - (15.54KB , 800x800 , 1407.png )
966523

I ask a few questions regarding their loyalty. Daspotta would back me up if I had to jail or execute her mother. Nabby claims to have put the past behind him and has no revenge thoughts against any hypothetical nobles that made Corpsebury what it is. Vark has no particular ill will against the one who whipped her, and would do nothing if they were standing in the room right now.

All of their reasoning is that they've had the idea instilled in them that attempting to do anything above their station as assistant is against their own best interests. When I ask if anyone's disagreed with any answers others have given, none answer. When I ask if they're okay with me slaying nobles, they say that's an expected duty in certain cases. Any question I can think of now just gets plain, inoffensive answers from them until I'm tired of asking questions.

I should pick one, take the oath, and get out of here.

The other question I've been avoiding staring straight at is if I should bring Nawm. It'd be nice to have a friend on this job, but she's cozy in her position and I'd be putting her in danger just by being in my entourage.

Then again, I can send her an invitation out of politeness and leave it up to her to decline. She could do that without making me feel I'm imposing on her.
>>
No. 966527 ID: e2f5cc

See if you can get a message to Nawm, a sort of 'take it or leave it' deal, since if you force her to come along that defeats the point of having her.

While I stand by my original idea of Nabby/Nawm is she's willing, but if she says no or you feel that she'd say no Moss, then that's a little more difficult. (though I do still want to go with Nabby)

Nabby alone is more like a squire than an assistant, since he seems like he knows about as much as we do while also probably barely knowing to hold a sword, but he has spirit that looks to be hard to stamp out yet will always follow your orders to the letter, so he can probably be good at whatever we want if we're willing to give him the time to train and be willing to look over his semi-useless start.

Daspotta's pros and cons are rather obvious. She's a walking memory bank with a lot of knowledge already baked in, but has basically no skills other than that. Which means that while we'll have enough information to take most anything with some strategy, we have to deal with most things on our own.

Vark... Well, first off, if you have even the slightest inkling that Nawm will join you don't pick Vark, since one of them will probably end up dead at the other's hands. If you think you're going solo though, she's definitely the most self-sufficient and is probably the only one with a chance to betray you, but she's low investment, since she can do just about everything better than the other two but I doubt she'll get noticeably better at anything nor learn new skills in a reasonable amount of time.

So again, I put my vote in for Nabby.
>>
No. 966535 ID: 86eb65

Daspotta cause he scaly boy.
>>
No. 966536 ID: 6c227a

The dynamic with Vark would be good. Trouble with authority is not a bad thing when her direct report is neither used to nor expecting mindless obedience, and quietly but not secretly working against his own boss. And hey, disregard for authority already yielded some information we wouldn't have gotten otherwise.
>>
No. 966541 ID: 4f51b2

>>966523
I don't think Nawm would like to but we should send her a letter, of course warning her that is going to be dangerous. Go for Vark.
>>
No. 966553 ID: b34040

Either Vark because it sounds like you'll need someone to watch your back, or Despotta because you'll need someone to teach you the things you need to know. Which of those things can you most likely get somewhere else?
>>
No. 966554 ID: 3a3c64

>>966523
Vark Because she has the best ears.
Don't bother Nawm for now; you need to get this oath and assistant thing over as soon as you can so you can start getting things situated. You should, however, either sent a note to Nawm or meet her yourself to let her know what happened. She's helped you out in the past, you may as well give her a chance to grab a favor from you before you inevitably become a paranoid shut-in or get killed by a rival noble.
>>
No. 966555 ID: ce39da

I'm thinking Vark - our mission right now is "Survive," at least until we can get ourselves established and secured. We need someone who can start backing us up in straight combat and assassination counterintelligence effective immediately. We can switch over to Daspotta for a bit once we're situated and can take a breather to start learning the "proper" ropes.
>>
No. 966557 ID: 470289

Daspotta.
>>
No. 966558 ID: ed763f

I'm thinking Despotta, but there's a part of me that can't help but think not choosing Vark is a mistake.
>>
No. 966559 ID: 567477

Vark's "good thing about herself" ended up being something that applies just as well to the other two. She was in a bandit group, but not a great one, since it got wiped out, which makes me think she's not a fighter either. Nabby's pros are things you can do yourself, when it comes to fighting at least, and if you don't like equipment maintenance it should be easy to pay/hire someone else.

I'd say Daspotta is the one to cover the things you need doing, and the only one who offers something beyond just an extra pair of hands.
>>
No. 966560 ID: bb78f2

>>966523
Honestly Moss, you should spar with them and determine their fighting ability before making a pick.

Otherwise, I trust (not the best word) Vark the most out of these three, unfortunately, both in a fight and in interview. Nabby's probably the most useful when it comes to her assistant knowledge, but I bet she's lying about her fighting ability and she's presenting way too hard here (but she is adorable). Dispotta I think will be tough AND knowledgeable, but I get the instinct that they'll die very quick in a fight because their probably the slowest fighter out of the three, also their nobility outright makes her motives questionable at all times.

You need a competent fighter that isn't going to stab you in the back most of all, and her experience will keep you alive. I don't care if your death would mean their death, Nabby would run because I don't think she has a spine and I think Dispotta would, in fact, die for their mother and would be an easy plant.
>>
No. 966571 ID: 1ed92d

>>966523
Hmmmm, don't send Nawm an invitation. It would be intercepted and she could be coerced into trying to kill you or blackmail you.

Take Vark.
>>
No. 966580 ID: e9fdc8

Could we make some sort of position for Nawm (advisor or maybe a contractor of some sort)? I like the idea of having someone we know already with us, but don't think it is worth putting her in a position where Moss's life is more important than her own.
>>
No. 966590 ID: 91ee5f

>>966523
>Pick who?
Daspotta. She knows pretty much everything you need to be doing, which makes her the most helpful because you have absolutely no idea what you’re supposed to be doing.

If you need someone to help you in a fight, then you can use those “secret body codes” Cheese taught you to ask for help. Or if you don’t want to rely on secret assassins that may or may not be nearby, then you can just hire someone to help you out.

>Nawm
The only thing you should do with her is make those lunches you owe her.

>>966560
>Honestly Moss, you should spar with them and determine their fighting ability before making a pick.
I don’t think that’s necessary, since Moss is the one that’s expected to do most of the fighting.
>>
No. 966593 ID: a9af05

>>966523
Get Daspotta.

And if you want Nawm, then you'll need to be able to pay her to work for you. Just because she's a friend, that doesn't mean she'll work for free.
>>
No. 966594 ID: 6c122f

I'd go with Daspotta, too.

One fighter won't help much if Moss is ambushed by assassins (unless it's a VERY good fighter, that is). However, none of them seem to fit the bill, so it wouldn't make that much of a difference. Also, as others pointed out, fighting (duels, at least) will be Moss's job, not the assistant's.

Better get good at it fast, and, in the meantime, avoid bad odds - like, try and avoid fights you cannot win. This can be by spotting them ahead of time, but, with the right knowledge, it will probably be possible to find alternate ways of dealing with these problems. Like, knowing in which cases Moss can enlist the aid of the local guards, or what he's entitled to offer to bandits or assassins (maybe even recruiting them as his "guards") in order not to have to fight them.

Knowledge can be invaluable, and Daspotta seems to be a well full of it.


As for Nawn, keeping in touch would be nice, but there is no reason to put her in harm's way, especially as she was our go-to choice for loyalty. But, considering that they should all be loyal to Moss first and foremost - that is, unless they're fanatic enough to be ready to lose their lives to betray him - we shouldn't need her.
>>
No. 966595 ID: 864e49

Man I don't know which one would be best for us, we need to know more about them; what knowledge they have, how well they fight, what connections they have, skills beyond what they've already told us, etc.

If we have to pick now then I pick Dispotta.
>>
No. 966597 ID: adb916

I rather like Vark, my gut just says she is the best choice.
>>
No. 966630 ID: 015bf2

... what happened to the last Field Marshall that they did not even make it out of town?

Nanny being good in a fight is surprisingly appealing, but pick Daspotta. I think they’ll surprise us in overall utility.

Thank the other two for their time, it was a surprisingly difficult choice.

Send Nawm a missive. Like “For my sins, I’ve been appointed Field Marshall. If you want to start making a dent into lunches owed before my job makes debts moot, feel free to meet me at [eatery in town] at [time].”

You can discuss what she’d feel up to from there - and probably lay out some truths on her. Even if she’s not keen on going with, having a contact among the palace prison guards that you have an excuse to meet when in town (“lunches owed”) isn’t bad. You can ask her for palace gossip n’ stuff.

It strikes me you might be the cause of prisoners being sent to the jail she guards, too, so if you want any of them followed up on or treated differently you can use her as a contact point for that. Of course you could probably just visit yourself if need be, so only if there’s something to be circumspect about.
>>
No. 966632 ID: 7cc58f

>>966523
Get the midget mountain kobold.
>>
No. 966634 ID: f3f534

You should get Daspotta.
>>
No. 966641 ID: dc9bc2

>>966523
Despotta. A good body for physical labor, a good mind for politics. He’s a little innocent, not someone you can call on to get their hands dirty. But even that might be an upside, makes him more honest. The best of the bunch for the given task.

Send a message to Nawm, offer her a position as your unofficial partner. No pressure here, it’s entirely up to her.
>>
No. 966642 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158949443435.png - (23.80KB , 800x800 , 1408.png )
966642

I'm split. If I had a well rounded group of people, Nabby would have made a good choice. Instead, I need people with specific positions or mannerisms instead of choosing plain, status quo options like him. So it's between Daspotta and Vark. Daspotta's noble background doesn't hurt, no one can hate on a noble like other nobles, so even if I went on a noble murdering spree, I don't think she'd mind. Especially since I don't have any business in Poluputus. Vark on the other hand seems much more grounded in reality, and may be better suited to acting appropriately on the roads.

If I had all day, I could try to figure out more about these three, but there's a sinking feeling I have. Word passes through the palace uncannily hard, and people will somehow figure out I'm the new Field Marshal. I want to get out of town before the rest of the whole damn palace knows what I look like. Maybe it's already too late, with Sir Guhn and these three.

"... Daspotta. I'll pick you."
>"YE - I mean, thank you, sir! I won't disappoint! I'll even shut up forever if you order me to!"
"No need, just... contain yourself. Please."
>"Yes, sir." She says, pulling her enthusiasm down quickly and effectively enough to reassure me.

The other two look disappointed, but there's no room here for pity. Just as well then that I picked quickly. Interviewing these three all day would have made the disappointment stronger.
>>
No. 966643 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158949445021.png - (29.76KB , 800x800 , 1409.png )
966643

I leave to alert Sir Guhn of my decision. Nabby and Vark say their farewells, and Daspotta hands me the field manual, already opened to the oath.

>"Alright." says Sir Guhn. "Are you ready, then?"
I skim the oath first to make sure there isn't something overtly dumb about it that I don't know. There isn't. "I am."
>"It's in the book, then. Go ahead and read it off."
"I, Moss, swear to serve the gold title of the western region of the Turtle's Hideaway. I will enforce the will of the gold title on all lesser kobolds, nobles or commoners, throughout the region, by all available means."

"... That's it?"
>"That's it, Field Marshal Moss. Now your word should be treated like Lord Krix's own. Congratulations, Daspotta... you don't need to be told not to disappoint." Daspotta nods quickly.
"I'd like to know what happened to the last Field Marshal."
>"We found her corpse with most of her belongings, except for her gold badge. I hear she told her friends the night before. Either word got out, her friends backstabbed her, or she just got unlucky on the streets. The criminal was found and killed before we could interrogate them, after trying to cash in a plain gold coin soon after."
>>
No. 966644 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158949450791.png - (19.11KB , 800x800 , 1410.png )
966644

"From what I know and what I'm reading, Sir Guhn, I could order you to let me grab Vark as a second assistant, couldn't I?"
>"You could. And I'd have to obey. Will you?"
>>
No. 966645 ID: 465a14

naw
>>
No. 966646 ID: e2f5cc

Nah. Pissing off our underlings and blatantly throwing our weight around seems like a good way to hasten our path to being a paranoid shut-in.
>>
No. 966648 ID: 86eb65

Would it be a good idea? Honest question.

I need all the help I can get but do not want to piss anyone off.
>>
No. 966649 ID: f56a2b

No. Just a hypothetical.
>>
No. 966651 ID: ce39da

"Naw."

Ask Daspotta what needs doing before we open our first investigation, as well as how a Field Marshal usually goes about carrying out an investigation. (Put "find a good smith to make armor for you" on the docket regardless of what she says about this.) In private, inform her that we have something in mind already regarding our first lead: Following up on Sayanos's threats that were made to us before we did the stuff that got us here.
>>
No. 966652 ID: 567477

"Not unless there's a real need for it."

You don't want to seem like you lack confidence, and you don't want to step on toes or push people in a way that makes you unpopular, but you should be quietly firm and clear that you will push if required.

Apart from that, a good way to start your job might be to ask Guhn if he's aware of any issues you need to look at. Make it clear you'll command him if necessary by giving some sort of light order, try get him started on being used to seeing you as someone to take orders from. As a bonus, if you can help him out with something, that's your position a little more rooted.
>>
No. 966654 ID: b1b4f3

Having Nawm as a bodyguard might be a good idea.
>>
No. 966655 ID: ed763f

Tempting, but not yet.
>>
No. 966660 ID: e35465

No, no need, at the moment. Well just take Despotta.

Then, I stand by my previous decision, ask Nawm if she wants to join you, but don’t press.
>>
No. 966661 ID: 91ee5f

>>966644
“No, I won’t. If I want people to like me, I can’t just order them around for dumb things like that.”

Don’t forget to get your badge that tells everyone that you’re a Field Marshal! You’ll need it when you do anything official.

>>966652
>ask Guhn if he's aware of any issues you need to look at
>As a bonus, if you can help him out with something, that's your position a little more rooted.
This.

>>966654
True, but can we convince her to do that? What could we tell her that would convince her to be our bodyguard?
>>
No. 966664 ID: 1ed92d

>>966644
Naw.
>>
No. 966665 ID: ee1d44

Naw, if i need more hands on the deck i'll let you know. Let's hope is not the case, right Daspotta?

Is just good to know that i have that option.
>>
No. 966666 ID: fa2754

>>966644
Nope, but you are getting the rest of the day off. Enjoy the rest of the day.

Now hash it out with the other two. Learn some secrets.
>>
No. 966667 ID: 91ee5f

>>966666
>Take the rest of the day off.
No, let's not do that. Just because we can do it, that doesn't mean that we should do it.

Also, we want to be seen as taking this job seriously. Giving someone a day off for no reason wouldn't help with that.
>>
No. 966669 ID: 4b7dae

"No. But that's good to know."

We may do that later.

I'm still worried about Vark's presence here. She was a painfully obvious choice; and if she was a plant, she was put there to appeal specifically to -you-.

If that's the case, that means that Sir Guhn himself is in on it. And that means that this conspiracy goes way deeper than we thought.

These are bad thoughts. We need to talk to Cheese.
>>
No. 966670 ID: d4c513

>>966644
grumble about how this kinda thing is going to give you a headache, instead of actually answering
>>
No. 966674 ID: bb78f2

>>966644
In all frankness... yeah. If I think its a good idea, yeah I shouldn't be afraid to order it. That's the entire point of authority. If that pisses you off, well, 'fraid I can't do nothing about that Guhn. Call it good for the empire, or for Krix, or for me.

Looks like I'll need every advantage I can get to get out of this town. Fuck dying.

Yark, yo! You coming with! Sorry Nabby, I'd be pushing my luck too far for all of you!
>>
No. 966676 ID: 0fb3be

Probably not.
>>
No. 966677 ID: 015bf2

>>966644
Smile grimly.

“No, but thank you for the lesson in how potently impotent this position might feel, Sir Gahn. Can you recommend a good blacksmith?”

Doesn’t seem like lunch with Nawm is in the cards if assassins could be after you as soon as word gets out. At best leave a note saying you hope to grab lunch again someday.

I’m thinking armory, then blacksmith. The first to grab some temporary arms and armor, the second to commission a set of armor and spread the word that you’ll be hanging in town for a while, waiting for it and other preparations to bear fruit.

Or maybe the reverse. Blacksmith, commission, lies. Then Armory, dress up to become less recognizable, then leave. Where to, though... Fence? Or aim straight for the lion’s den of Pocktown?

If you come back alive or get somewhere safer, you can always fetch/send for a completed armor set, too, so it’s not a waste.
>>
No. 966681 ID: b34040

No. We need to not throw our weight around on our first day. We need to know the lay of the land first. If that means getting out of town as soon as possible to buy time to learn without getting stabbed in the back, then that's what we'll do.
>>
No. 966697 ID: 89ae2b

Hell no, that would be a great way to make enemies on your own side.
>>
No. 966720 ID: a9af05

>>966644
No, I won't order that.
>>
No. 966730 ID: e9fdc8

Can we take bounties? I mean, we could probably just mug people or just demand money from those lower than us, but if we want to stick to less heavy handed and evil methods (which we, or at least I, do), doing jobs from a job board seems like a decent idea (tbh it is probably considered below us by most, but most would also assume we are already rich, which we are not).
>>
No. 966731 ID: e9fdc8

Also, is there a rank insignia or crest we could sew onto our clothing to identify us as a field marshal rather than using a shiny gold badge?
>>
No. 966734 ID: 015bf2

>>966731
Coat it in varnish, dust it down, wear it beneath a cloth flap you fold up when in civilized company or just not have it visibly on. There are many options to handle this problem.

The problem might be more one of expectations. When does Moss undermine his own position by not ‘proudly’ displaying the badge of his office?
>>
No. 966739 ID: a9af05

>>966734
>When does Moss undermine his own position by not ‘proudly’ displaying the badge of his office?
He's only allowed to be proud when he starts making a difference and the amount of corruption is noticeably lowered.
>>
No. 966741 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158958553319.png - (26.76KB , 800x800 , 1411.png )
966741

"No, I'm only getting a feel for how much weight I have. Vark and Nabby were good candidates, but I'm not going to throw my weight at you for that."
>"... Moss, I'm going to be blunt. This job position is archaic, it's expensive and it does more harm than good. And, for reasons beyond me, we just can't get rid of it. Nobles clamber to get one of their own into this job for purely abusive reasons, and it can get difficult to deny them if it's completely vacant." He pulls out a bag, and tosses it to me. It's much heavier than the 20 silver he mentioned. "The longer you stay alive and fill the position, the longer we can go without giving the job to someone else. There's 30 extra silver in there, 50 total. Get yourself properly equipped without having to use your badge."
"Thanks, Sir Guhn."
>"If you do die, try to lose your badge and die in a ditch or somewhere we can't find you anything. That way, we can tell others that the position is still filled. Goodbye."
"Yeah, I'll remember that when I'm choking on blood. Goodbye, Sir Guhn."

He already told me there was no alternative to the badge, so Sir Guhn gives the gold plated one to me and I put it on the inside of my cloak. I'll worry about options later.
>>
No. 966743 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158958557861.png - (93.29KB , 800x800 , 1412.png )
966743

Just before we leave, I turn to Daspotta.

"In case you didn't catch the hint, don't tell anyone I'm a field marshal unless they have to know." I show her my palace guard badge that I'm happy the warden let me keep. "Just tell people I'm a palace guard, and you're, uh..."
>"One of the dungeon cleaners?"
"Yeah."
>"You've got it, F - Sir!"
"Right. So I'm no bounty hunter, but is that an option for getting cash?"
>"Yes Sir."
"And how am I supposed to go about an investigation, for the job in general?"
>"If you weren't told what to do before you got the job, then there really isn't any direction you have to go in. You may want to travel the country side and visit each town and get a feel for it, if you aren't so well traveled already. Then, when you feel that any people are being terribly oppressed or misbehaving or anything like that, you can go try and fix it up. Oh, but if you want a recommendation for specifics, I'd recommend the Fence. It's got a bad reputation for crime, and it was just recently put under the care of Lord Krix."
"It just so happens I was thinking the same." For completely different reasons. I want to get Cheese before I do anything significant with this job. She should know the practical ideas for how to be a field marshal.
>>
No. 966744 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158958559341.png - (102.35KB , 800x800 , 1413.png )
966744

Judging by the sun, it's about time for Nawm's shift to end. Before I stop at an armory, I head to the bar Nawm and I visit after a shift. I run into her while she was on her way.

"Hey, Nawm."
>"Moss, there you are. What's going on with you?"
>>
No. 966745 ID: 86eb65

Cleaning dungeons. Wanna get lunch and talk?
>>
No. 966746 ID: b1b4f3

>>966744
Tell her you've been promoted and you're looking to hire a bodyguard. Or at least someone who's near your skill level. How's she feel about risking her life daily?
>>
No. 966747 ID: ed763f

Unless you're looking to get a different job also involving crap pay for dangerous work, I figured I should say goodbye before I leave town.
>>
No. 966748 ID: 015bf2

>>966739
I wasn’t talking about Moss’ feelings, but those of his new ‘peers’, like bureaucrats, knights and nobles on whom he probably has to rely or order about. I’m wondering if not wearing the badge might offend the ‘upright’ sort, whether from being considered a coward or from breaking tradition or just from people’s inherent distrust towards plains-clothed authority figures with license to judge.

The office of Field Marshall seems like a paper tiger - as long as enough / the right people gives it respect, credence and time of day it can do whatever, but if challenged or going in without support from existing power structures it doesn’t actually have a whole lot of push.

Obviously screw convention and keep the badge in a pocket at all times if it is that or survival, but knowing when to hide the badge and when to wear it with ‘pride’ (pride probably not real) just seemed like a useful consideration.
>>
No. 966749 ID: 015bf2

It’s kind of telling of the kind of people who usually staff this position that Sir Guhn decided you were worth supporting from merely not allowing the power to go to your head immediately.

>Nawm
Nawm, meet Daspotta, the help. Daspotta, meet Nawm, the friend.

Turns out Warlord Krix was so unimpressed with your kill that he wanted to give you a chance to do it again, and not to a body double this time. You’re... don’t spread the word and promise not to laugh.

... you got promoted to Field Marshal.

What did she want out of life now again? Stability? Cuz’ you have an offer, but if that’s high on her list of priorities, you’ll hold off.
>>
No. 966750 ID: 567477

You owe Guhn a favor now for that extra money, so keep it in mind. You want to maintain a rep as someone who can be relied on to pay off his obligations. And who can be discreet when necessary, too.

Now, when was the last time you slept? You might want to take the chance to get your vulnerably unconsciousness in now, before the news spreads too much. It's unlikely Nawm and Daspotta are in cahoots, so if you got both of them to watch you snooze, you could trust to waking up with all your blood still inside. If you're still hoping to keep your appointment quiet for a little longer, don't speak out here where they could be someone behind the wall through that doorway.
>>
No. 966752 ID: b1b4f3

If this isn't a secure location, don't utter the words "Field Marshall".
>>
No. 966753 ID: 36784c

>>966744
“So about those lunches I owe you. Would you mind coming with us somewhere private, so we can talk about it?”
>>
No. 966765 ID: ee1d44

>>966753
This.
>>
No. 966766 ID: 470289

Ask despotta at some point like, what's her endgame here? She's trained to be your assistant but is she just gonna be that forever, or that for your inheritor if you retire and dont die? Is there some kind of promotion for her to aim for?
>>
No. 966780 ID: 6c227a

My complete lack of subtlety, social grace, and respect for authority appealed to Lord Krix's complete lack of subtlety, social grace, and respect for anyone, so he gave me a promotion instead of an execution. You want out of the dungeon into a more dangerous but better paying job too? I can talk to somebody.
>>
No. 966796 ID: 4c504d

“The dungeon was kinda cramped, decided to get some air. I find myself between bouts of imprisonment, courtesy of Krix, and I’m about to have a target on my back the size of the damn palace. I might need your help, but that depends. Buy you a drink?”

If she agrees, head to the bar and find a quiet nook that doesn’t have ears. If not, just make sure no passers by are listening to your talk. Explain your situation, limitedly, then ask her if she’ll join you, watch your back. Be clear on the danger, the demand, and the pay. Don’t press. Above all, make sure she understands to keep this under wraps either way.
>>
No. 966806 ID: 1ed92d

>>966744
Got promoted to Janitor.
>>
No. 966807 ID: b34040

Before you even *bring up* the topic of employment, think for a moment. Can you really pay her a steady income good enough to be worth leaving what's really a relatively cushy position to enter a relatively high-risk bodyguard position? If not, you're doing her no favours by asking.
>>
No. 966810 ID: dbd72b

Tell her you got a shiny new job. Got a lot of benefits, but you're prolly gonna get killed by angry nobles. You could use some help, but the whole "assassination target" part means we reeeally aren't gonna push that.

Mostly here to tell Nawm the news, you'll be around less, but hey! Might pretend to be a guard sometimes, so not a complete goodbye. In case you die in a duel, tell her it's been cool, and you're glad she had your back.
>>
No. 966812 ID: adb916

>>966810
this seems like a cool, measured response
>>
No. 966832 ID: 4b7dae

Stick to the plan. Buy her lunch, and then discuss the promotion somewhere you won't be overheard.

We definitely need to figure out what we can pay Nawm, and how, if we want her working for us.

I'd think we can keep her on the palace payroll. Sir Guhn just told us that we can order staff reassignments, after all. Question is how much we can pay her. Can we also order appropriations from the palace treasury? Is that something we even want to try? We really need to have a better idea what the scope of our authority is, and how much weight we have to throw around.

>>966780

I so love the choice of words here.
>>
No. 966836 ID: 36784c

>>966832
>We really need to have a better idea what the scope of our authority is, and how much weight we have to throw around.
That’s what Daspotta is for. Just ask her these questions and she’ll answer them.
>>
No. 966858 ID: 6c227a

>>966807
it wasn't that long ago Moss said there wasn't a lot of difference being on one side of the bars or the other. The job ain't that cushy.
>>
No. 966861 ID: 15a025

"On the fence about leaving this place. Wanna ditch these dungeons and come with?"
>>
No. 966888 ID: 26e160

>>966753
This, and if she accepts and we go somewhere more secure, we say this: >>966780
>>
No. 966986 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158982395092.png - (134.16KB , 800x800 , 1414.png )
966986

"I got a new job, might have to move around, so let me treat you for those lunches by giving you at least one good dinner."
>"Like that sixth floor place where it looks like you need gold weaved clothes just to get in?"
"Yeah, except I want privacy, plus... this is Daspotta."
>"A pleasure." says Daspotta.
>"Hi, there. If you're coming along, then there's no way we'd get in." Nawm says.
"She is, so... fourth floor meat hall."
>"Good alternative."

It's good food, but more importantly, we get a bowl of soup and find somewhere else to sit so that we can have privacy.

Nawm and I find a windowsill to sit on, and Daspotta eats standing up.
>>
No. 966987 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158982406285.png - (119.16KB , 800x800 , 1415.png )
966987

"Alright, Nawm. My lack of subtlety, social grace, and respect for authority appealed to Lord Krix's complete lack of subtlety, social grace, and respect for anyone. So I got a promotion instead of an execution."
>"What's the job?"
"Nothing I want to reveal, though you'd be welcome to join me if you want to leave your dungeon position for a job that pays less but endangers your life more."
>"You sure you didn't get that backwards?"
"You heard me. Personally, I don't recommend it unless you're desperate to get out of your dungeon job."
>"Tough sell and you're already doing a bad job of convincing me, but you are making me curious as hell what this job is. As your friend, Moss, I am going to absolutely pry this out of you. People are going to find out anyway."
"I'm trying to stall that as long as possible."
>"Yeah, good luck. If you ever stopped staring at your feet, you'll notice that this palace is one big fishbowl. Either I'm going to hear about it, or you're going to tell me yourself, so tell me!"
>>
No. 966989 ID: 440bb8

Can anyone spy on us here?

If not tell her. She will be a target soon enough.
>>
No. 966990 ID: 465a14

>>966987
It's kind of dangerous to know, but... people are probably going to assume Nawm knows anyway judging from what happened to Moss re: Fen and it'd be nice to actually have her within arm's reach for safety. Might as well tell her about the field marshal job. Hopefully she doesn't immediately backstab Moss, but even if she does it'd be better to find out she's unreliable now instead of later.
>>
No. 966991 ID: e2f5cc

"It's something I don't feel comfortable talking about even here, so let your imagination go wild with that while we eat or lets go somewhere more secretive, like those back prison cells."
>>
No. 966992 ID: ed763f

Alright, some prick's already threatened your friends and family BEFORE you got promoted, so you probably owe her. Swear her to secrecy, tell her the title in hushed tones, hope she hasn't got a personal grudge against the office.
>>
No. 966993 ID: 4b7dae

There's no reason not to tell Nawm, and trying to talk around it like this is not going to do anything good for our relationship with her. If we didn't feel like we could trust her with the knowledge, we wouldn't be talking to her here at all. And even if she doesn't want to join us, it will be useful to have her as a contact.

We are feeling a bit paranoid, so we will want to check for spies first. Plus, identifying if there's anyone deliberately spying on us at this point will give us useful information. (Namely, that there are people who already think we're worth spying on.)
>>
No. 966998 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158982945060.png - (125.20KB , 800x800 , 1416.png )
966998

I look around. There's no one else nearby.

"Field Marshal."
>"Hah, you lied. You said you got promoted, but everyone in the palace knows how much that position is so loved."
"Yeahhhh I know."
>"... Ah, shit, sorry." I realize my tone reflected just how bad I think it is. "It's getting to you?"
"I don't want to die in the service of Lord Krix."
>"Damn, it's that bad? I knew it was a rough job, but I just thought you'd get constantly hounded by people to do their dirty work for them. Blackmailed, even, uh... yeah that is bad, shit. So.... why are you still here?"
"To say goodbye to you, Nawm. I need to pick up some stuff from the armory still, while I'm at it."
>"You are one sweet dumbass, you know that?"
>"M-miss, please don't talk to the field marshal like..." I look over at Daspotta. I didn't think I shot her a bad glare, but she shrinks back. "S-sorry, Moss."
>"No, no, I should talk to you, Daspotta, was it?" says Nawm. "You look like you do steady work in the palace. Did they just randomly pick you to be Moss's help?"
>"No, I'm well trained for the job!"
>"Do your peers and bosses know you're well trained?"
>"Er, y-yes...?"
>"So you're trained for being the marshal's help, and people know it. And what do you think they're going to think when you don't show up back to work?"
>"I - oh. Ohhh. Sir Moss! I was pulled out of work for this, and they probably don't expect me to be gone for a long time unless I got picked! Oh, and if any of my workers actually see me standing next to you, when you really looks like you fit the job, um..."
>"I'd bet my week's wages that the palace already knows there's a new field marshal appointed, and if you hang around any longer, Moss, people are going to figure out it's you. Either that or think I'm involved with this somehow. I'm not your help, but if you want my advice, quit wasting time with me, get what you need, then get your sweet dumb ass down into the dungeon and escape the palace through a back exit."
>>
No. 966999 ID: b1b4f3

>>966998
She's right, get moving.
>>
No. 967000 ID: 465a14

Fair enough. Best get the armor and so on, then.
>>
No. 967001 ID: e2f5cc

"Yeah, you're right. Thanks for everything Nawm. But actually, won't people go after you?"

Trust her if she says she'll be fine, but either way tell Nawm that your offer is always open in case she does end up needing to flee the palace.
>>
No. 967002 ID: fa2754

>>966998
Thanks Nawm.
Make your way out. Tell your aide to follow you at a distance
>>
No. 967003 ID: a9af05

>>966998
"Thanks, Nawm. And sorry I couldn't pay you back all of those lunches I owed you."
>>
No. 967005 ID: ed763f

Stay safe Nawm.
We know about the tunnels under the palace, although it'd be wise to expect an ambush this time. Better hope the armorer has something for us.
>>
No. 967006 ID: cab1b7

>>966998
Tell her thanks, give her a pat on the back or a hug (her choice), and get the hell out of here. Quick question; how much do we trust Des around Cheese? We definitely need her help in uncovering Sayanos’ plans, and Des seems fairly loyal thusfar, but how much are we willing to extend that trust?
>>
No. 967007 ID: ac8857

Good idea. If you want a horrible job with me you know we're I will be.

Don't get stabbed ok?

Give her a hug and book it.
>>
No. 967008 ID: ed763f

Tell her you should have upsold the position some more, she's got the kind of brains you could use right now.
>>
No. 967009 ID: f133dc

Yeah, you're right, time to go.

If I ever see you again, I'll bring you another lunch.
>>
No. 967022 ID: 36784c

>>966998
Let Nawm know that if you somehow survive all of this, you'll owe her a favor or something.
>>
No. 967027 ID: 015bf2

>>967008
Yep. Another lunch owed.

Will she be okay? While she has some protection as a palace guard we’ve already discovered there are people trying to bypass those protections to get at Moss. If Moss becomes a big enough pain, they might aim for Nawm.

Also, as much of a giveaway as she is, I don’t think we should separate from Daspotta. We’ve already been walking about with her. We just need to make our requisitions and leave. Anything she can tell us about that particular process to streamline it? Also, what gear would she be willing to skill up in / be comfortable using?
>>
No. 967032 ID: 5c5fb9

A good point. Thank Nawm for being a friend, and a decent person. It’s meant a lot.

Head off, grab your gear. And something simple for Despotta too, dead help isn’t much help.
>>
No. 967053 ID: 4a3c19

Ok, i guess we are even, what with lunch and all. Thank her and get going.
Does she want anything that you could give her, before leaving? Last chance. Hell, you could probably change her working station far away from all this, i think.
>>
No. 967119 ID: dbd72b

Say your goodbyes and get some gear
>>
No. 967129 ID: 1ed92d

>>966998
She's right, BOOK IT!
>>
No. 967154 ID: 4f51b2

>>966998
Let's move on.
>>
No. 967183 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158993690161.png - (94.81KB , 800x800 , 1417.png )
967183

"Yeah, you're right. Daspotta, do you know where the dungeon is?"
>"I do."
"Follow me at a distance, meet me at the entrance to the dungeon if we get too separated. Nawm... you going to be okay, associated with me?"
>"Don't worry about me, I'll just tell them you went mad with power and tried to get me to do stupid shit."
"... Not sure I like that."
>"You want me to tell them you're a nice boy who aims to please?"
"Nevermind, just... hopefully it doesn't come up. Thanks for seeing me. Goodbye, Nawm, I'll try to visit if things cool off and give you the rest of those lunches."
>"Yeah, you better. Goodbye, man."

She pats my shoulder, and I set my bowl down to give her a hug. She pulls her arms around me and I hear her start eating another spoonful of soup over my shoulder.

>"Really, Nawm? Through a hug?"
"It's called multitasking, you big softie. Now get out of here."
>>
No. 967184 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158993691356.png - (26.73KB , 800x800 , 1418.png )
967184

I walk with haste to grab a sword, small dagger and chainmail. It takes just about all the money I have, so I can't get a bow and arrow. Thankfully, they have some of the same swords the guards use, so I buy one for myself since I've gotten used to that type. The shopkeeper's assistants respect my haste and manage to point out a bit of chainmail that doesn't fit exactly right, but it's about as good as I'm going to find even if I stick around for awhile.

It's been so long since I've worn armor that I make the mistake of putting the chainmail on over my bare ears. I lose some fur because of it, but other than embarrassment, the chainmail isn't limiting my mobility and I can't afford comfort anyway.
>>
No. 967185 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158993693957.png - (30.16KB , 800x800 , 1419.png )
967185

I meet Daspotta, give her the dagger I got, and move into the dungeon. We're able to avoid the thinner halls with grabby prisoners, but we still have to enter the sight of some prisoners that yell as loud as usual.

"They're just animals barking, Daspotta. Just keep walking." I hate that I think about them like that so easily, now, but they yell awful things to Daspotta.

We walk in silence, and the guards let us leave into the old dungeons so that I can worry about an ambush down there the entire trip.
>>
No. 967186 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158993695105.png - (72.91KB , 800x800 , 1420.png )
967186

There is no ambush. The exit out of town is clear, and so is the sky, so no crows will be spotting me.

>"Are we going to the Fence then, Sir Moss?"
"We are. And if you're able, before night falls."
>"As you order!"
"If not loyalty, then stay motivated by thinking about how many bandits come out at night."
>"Yes, sir!"

She does start huffing after awhile, and she may be the stereotypical mountain kobold that can have large bursts of strength, but tire easily.
>>
No. 967187 ID: 5fc3a0
File 158993696085.png - (41.17KB , 800x800 , 1421.png )
967187

Despite questions about stamina, Daspotta manages to hang on and make the entire trip with only a few breaks on the way. Without Cheese intercepting me, I have to go through the front gate. It's there that I'm reminded that wearing armor is a sign I have money, and having money means I have to pay entry fees. I pay two copper for each of us, and move on.

>"... did you really have to pay?"
>"Two copper is worth avoiding trouble or..." I don't complete the sentence. I think she's clever enough to complete the sentence with 'reveal my station.' This place is as overpopulated as ever.

I only have a few silver left, and I keep it tucked where prying hands can't get it. I should've smeared my face with dirt to fit in now that I think about it.

I now have to ask myself how much I trust Daspotta to be around Cheese. And, for that matter, how to find Cheese.
>>
No. 967190 ID: e2f5cc

Don't dirty yourself, your armor already marks you as wealthier than half of the fence combined and throwing more mud on your face would just make you stand out more.

As for finding Cheese, doesn't she work for that stone noble with tiny feet? Sir Gauche or something. Also remember to still not look at his face so you keep your cover.

And you can just leave Despotta in the common areas of the palace if Cheese is supposedly there, letting her do what she wants to do while not getting herself in trouble.
>>
No. 967191 ID: 86eb65

Wave at the nearest orphan or beggar (just wave no talky) and they probably will get word to her. If you stay in the Fence for a bit she should send someone.

Of course watch out for any random people leading you into traps with Cheeses name.

As for Daspatta? You are joined at the hip but you can let Cheese decide how much she needs to know of Cheeses buisness. Just don't blurt out any secrets while she is around you don't want her hearing.
>>
No. 967192 ID: 567477

It's good manners to Cheese to not introduce the two of them until Cheese gives you the ok. Fortunately, you are actually supposed to be reviewing the state of things on behalf of Krix, it's literally your job now to poke and snoop a bit. You can easily ask Daspotta to watch an alleyway or a door or the street or something while you pop in somewhere.

If you really want her out of the way for a little while, get her to do something that requires her book learning services. Get her to go over someone's records or some such like that for you. You'll probably need to flash your badge to get in somewhere that HAS books, but you should be able to find somewhere that won't want trouble. Well, that and somewhere that you should be looking. Your relationship with Daspotta is new, you want to set a good precendent for giving good orders, so she gets used to thinking of you as an authority. Be careful with the first few tasks you set for her so she respects you, you're still in first impressions territory.
>>
No. 967197 ID: b1b4f3

>>967187
She'll notice and find you eventually, but for now, try looking for any attentive-looking children and pay them a couple copper to tell Cheese you're here.
>>
No. 967201 ID: 7914df

We are here on official business to check stuff out, so we should act as such talk to the local noble in charge (Sir Gauche?). Cheese will find us in the mean time.
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No. 967202 ID: ed763f

Man, it's such a shame we're coming here, it looks like they did such a good job rebuilding.

Have you explained your current assignment to Daspotta? If not, simply explain that right your current best lead is to find the enemy of your enemy and you'll explain how that works later. He might not like it but you can tell him with honesty that you don't either.

Remember, scratching the back of your left hand means 'I need help', and cheese apparently hires kids as runners, and works for the local stone noble. So hopefully you can find a contact near the palace or whatever and not have to use your badge to get past the guards and instantly blow your cover.
>>
No. 967204 ID: 4a3c19

>>967197
Yeah, this sounds about right. That or look for the stone noble himself.
>>
No. 967205 ID: bb78f2

>>967187
Didn't she tell you about her favorite bar or something?
>>
No. 967206 ID: 36784c

>>967187
>how to find Cheese.
Do any of those “secret body codes” Cheese taught you translate into “Tell Cheese I'm here to meet her.” or something like that? If so, use those.

Otherwise, you may have to wait for her to come to you.
>>
No. 967207 ID: 36784c

>>967204
>look for the stone noble
Which stone noble? If you’re talking about Sir Gauche, I don’t think we should bother him if we can avoid it.
>>
No. 967208 ID: 08e322

>>967207
nah Moss definitely has the station to walk into a nobles house and ask them for a favor and cheese would be harder to track through Sir Gauche then Moss finding her himself. go to tiny feet.
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No. 967210 ID: ed763f

>>967208
We absolutely can, that doesn't mean we should. Remember what cheese said about single-day nobles who's authority isn't matched by their power.
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No. 967219 ID: 4b7dae

It is literally our job to deal with nobles now, and isn't Sir Gauche supposed to be a decent sort? Pay a visit to the palace, all you need to tell the guards is that lord Krix sent you. This sort of thing is what you kept the prison guard badge for. You can show the marshal's badge to Gauche, and only Gauche. (Well, and maybe his bodyguards, but they're paid to not talk.)

Regarding Cheese, we should definitely let her decide if Daspotta will meet her. We would -like- to have Daspotta meet her, assuming she's not going to blurt out classified information where people can hear it, because Daspotta will be able to retain the sort of complex and detailed information Cheese is likely to give us better than we probably can; but we need to let Cheese decide. Park Daspotta in the palace library or something.

Cheese should already know we're here; if not, she will by the time we get to the palace. We can try to get the attention of one of her informants to speed that up. (The kids know we're working with her, so they should be able to guess why we're here.)

Alternately, she told us she was working for Gauche now, so we can just ask him if we can see her. He should be amenable to letting us borrow her services for a little while, since now we have an important job and need all the help we can get. Remember, we're -asking-, not -ordering-. (We may not even have authority to give that kind of order to a noble. Check with Daspotta before we have that conversation; we don't plan to do it anyway, but we'd like to know what our negotiating position is.)

Now, a question I have is whether we want to look around the city for a bit before heading to the palace. In addition to giving Cheese more time to find us, this would give us some ideas for questions to ask Sir Gauche when we see him. In the course of our official duties we should probably inquire about the reconstruction project.
>>
No. 967241 ID: 1ed92d

>>967187
Just go find a tavern. Daspotta needs a break so she'll be at peak condition when the muggers arise. Meanwhile, prepare to locate Sir Gauche.
>>
No. 967301 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159001898791.png - (19.77KB , 800x800 , 1422.png )
967301

If I could meet with Sir Gauche alone, that would be easiest, but acting like a commoner asking to personally see the stone noble without any important seals or badges is a good way to get stabbed, or at least throw back out onto the street. I could show the badge to the palace guard, but then I may as well get on top of the tallest tower here and shout that the new field marshal is in town.

The restaurant, if I can get there, then I should be able to find the hole Cheese led me through and retrace my steps, but... damnit, I didn't catch the name of it.

Then I see a ragged looking loitering child that doesn't look lost. That may work, Cheese seemed to be in charge of children all over town. Before I get his attention, I turn to Daspotta.

"Daspotta, there should be common grounds in the palace. Head there, read some books if you can access a library, get some food and rest either way. Meet me here by sundown if I can't find you beforehand." I slip a few copper in her pack, leaving myself only a handful left.
>"Understood, Sir!" She doesn't ask why we're splitting up. I wouldn't have minded answering, but there's no need here to stomp on her unquestioning attitude.
>>
No. 967302 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159001900040.png - (95.61KB , 800x800 , 1423.png )
967302

I approach the shortie.

"Hey, kid. Does the name 'cheese' mean anything to you?"
>"I know what hardened milk is. You got business with me?"

He finally noticing my conspicuous scratching of my left hand. 'I need help' isn't exactly the ideal body code for the scenario, but if he recognizes this, he should recognize I at least know Cheese's codes. If these codes are shared through her network. If he didn't just think I was itchy. If he knows how to find Cheese and isn't so far down the network. If he knows cheese at all. There are a lot of ifs.

>"Finding a bit of cheese'll cost you a couple copper." The way he says it is so painfully and blatantly off that my guard instincts want to arrest him right here, so this might've worked just fine. I hand two copper to him. "Alright. Follow me."
>>
No. 967303 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159001911949.png - (76.89KB , 800x800 , 1424.png )
967303

I'm lead into some building's basement, and he crawls through the floor.

I wait.

And wait.

And wait. It was already getting late, and the sun is going down, so Daspotta might just have to wait a little while, but at least the street I left her to wait on was safe enough.
>>
No. 967304 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159001919065.png - (84.54KB , 800x800 , 1425.png )
967304

"Hi! I'm glad you're okay! Also, armor? Must've been something big to get you to wear that - nevermind it. Okay, uhm, before we talk, let's get to my place."
>>
No. 967305 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159001921116.png - (56.28KB , 1200x800 , 1426.png )
967305

She gives me some directions to a tunnel entrance I can fit in, and leads me back to her small room.

"Okay! I heard some things but please tell me."
"I sent a letter earlier today."
"My mail network isn't that fast."
"I killed Sayanos' body double."
"Really! I heard Sayanos was dead, but a body double? Well, 'attempted to murder a noble' isn't that much lower of a crime than 'succeeded to murder a noble.' I know I told you it would probably be okay but I'm seriously relieved I was right."
"Krix alone told me it was a body double. As far as I know, everyone else thinks it was the real Sayanos. Then Krix told me to figure out what the real Sayanos was doing."
"Yeah, I haven't heard anything about a body double, so... huh. I found out that Sir Sayanos had some legitimate support from the population of Pocktown, so Krix's fellows wanted him dead. If Sayanos wanted to survive, faking his death by having a body double die in his place would make a lot of sense! It doesn't explain why the crows favor him. Speaking of them, uh, they weren't too happy about me wanting answers, and the resident mayor wasn't glad to have me waltzing inside that town. I er well, I didn't even make it into town. So I've been getting information and presents together to change their receptiveness to me! I might have enough now, but I wanted to wait to see what happened to you. So you're Krix's investigator now?"
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No. 967306 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159001924101.png - (20.93KB , 800x800 , 1427.png )
967306

I show her my field marshal badge. She takes a minute to recognize it, but when she does, her eyes practically pop out of their sockets and she bangs the table.

"That still exists?! I thought it went the way of the Iron Knighthood or the Gold Prophets!" Other titles that I've barely heard of, but have similar reputations as tyrants as far as I know. "That's fantastic!"
"It's not fantastic. It's a death sentence I got earlier today, and as soon as I could I ran here to meet you because I'm desperate."
"Oh, er, right, fantastic for people who want to get stuff done, so I guess Lord Krix kinda didn't actually let you off easy. Er I didn't mean that condescendingly, just, uh, I'm going to shut up and say that I'm glad you came to me for help. How many people know you're the new field marshal?"
"I was given the option of hiring one assistant out of three possibilities. Those three and the one who sword me in know. I told no one, and you're the only one I've shown my badge to, but the palace might have figured things out."
"You are a smart man, Moss, and we're going to make the most out of your position! I'd like to bring you with me for this crow business. All you have to do is flash your badge and put on your serious mean face while I do politics. Word will get out, but hopefully we'll get out faster. We can disguise your fur a little bit so that a visual description won't match what you really look like."

I was secretly hoping she knew of a way that field marshals could honorably resign.
>>
No. 967308 ID: 465a14

you told Nawm tho
>>
No. 967309 ID: 86eb65

You are the expert so I will follow your lead for now. We can visit the crows.

I do have to figure out what to do with my assistant who I sent off to the common inn. I was pondering how much to involve her?
>>
No. 967311 ID: e2f5cc

Well there's no shame in asking Cheese if you honorably resign even if you know the answer. But yeah just make your fur monotone and you'll look like 90% of fieldies. As for the crow business, well it isn't like you have anything better to do, but also don't forget to grab Despotta if you're heading out soon or get her/yourself a place to stay if you're gonna be here the night. Also don't forget to mention you told Nawm about your station. While you wouldn't call her the most reliable you also know she wouldn't sell you out easily.
>>
No. 967313 ID: b1b4f3

>>967306
>told no one
You told Nawm.

But yeah a disguise could work. Gonna need a disguise for your assistant too... but won't she be generally recognizable due to her stature?
>>
No. 967314 ID: 36784c

>>967306
I don't want to leave my assistant all alone for too long. She might get worried and start looking for me, which would probably end up getting her into trouble if she goes to the wrong part of town.
>>
No. 967316 ID: 567477

Ok but Cheese I feel like if I want to keep this job I also need to make sure I make a good first impression on everyone including my assistant so since we're waiting for Fen and have to think at least a little long term I hope what you're planning right now will also incorporate me making a good impact and a good precedent and other good things? If this is so handy it needs to be taken care of which means I need to be taken care of, if you're getting what I mean.

I'd also love if you put your spies on my new assistant just so I can sleep a little more soundly and also not have to worry about tiptoeing around her all the time. I mean tit for tat I will happily do you some favors, so, if you don't mind? Also some tips on handling the politics and the nobles and not getting assassinated, please, if you don't mind.
>>
No. 967317 ID: 08e322

>>967306
hold off on doing anything for at least a day Cheese seems to be going to fast to what can assist her here and ignoring how much danger it actually puts you in, slow down and hide for at least a day and let her do some more planning for keeping you safe
>>
No. 967319 ID: ed763f

>I was secretly hoping she knew of a way that field marshals could honorably resign.
Look to do so well you get promoted, without becoming irreplaceable.

I'll be honest, I thought she'd be more upset you didn't buy time like she asked by fake-agreeing to the assassination plot. That said, you should probably show some agency and get her to hold her horses a minute- don't just let her use you. Also she's getting the sweats again which could just be excitement but you're playing a low trust game right now.

Cheese, I appreciate you can see the good in this, but I need to accomplish my own objectives if I'm going to save my own hide and the hide of my friends and family. Are you sure the crows are key in this, or are we just going to expend effort and maybe burn bridges to find their hands are tied as well, or they've also been threatened and still won't tell, or they've set up an ambush just for us, or I'll find you're doing your own thing for Gauche or your family or something? And wherever we go I'm bringing my assistant. I kinda have to trust them, unless there's a reason I shouldn't trust a seventh in line to receive a wood nobility.
>>
No. 967320 ID: 4a3c19

>>967308
She doesn't need to know. Just as Nawm doesn't need to know what you will be doing and everything else.
>>
No. 967326 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159002575038.png - (25.83KB , 800x800 , 1428.png )
967326

"A disguise is good, if there's no good way to just send in a resignation for this job. And I know this job is mandatory, so I may as well do it right. Is there any way this crow zone is going to make a good first impression for this job?"
"Oh yeah. The mayor is up to some no good business, you can have a field day there." Her eyebrows waggle. Mine move less than the stagnant air down here. "Uh, yes... it'll be good for you if it all goes well. Both in job experience and finding out some shady dealings."
"I also told Nawm about this job. A friend. She's probably trustworthy."
"... Anyone else, while you're remembering?"
"No. I think that's it."
"Also while we're clarifying this, Lord Krix knows, right?"
"Yes, he does."
"Right. Yes. Also, remember that book I showed you? With all the nobles and their seals and stuff? You might be in the next edition."
"Fantastic.. Yes, I'll follow you. The crow zone is a secluded place, maybe I can find a nice hole to hide in for a..."

I take a breath. A crappy attitude only makes situations that much more crappy.

"Light a candle please. I can barely see in here."
"Oh right."
>>
No. 967327 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159002578005.png - (23.69KB , 800x800 , 1429.png )
967327

"How much should I involve my assistant? I should get in contact with her soon."
"Hmmm... I'll write a letter with my own seal on it. She can deliver it straight to Sir Gauche. It's going to say that she's the field marshal's assistant. Sir Gauche can keep that fact hidden, and by telling him, it won't be a bluff to tell the crow mayor that there will be repercussions if he kills you, even if he's not technically in Lord Krix's territory. I don't think he'd do that, but... the politics might get a bit rough in order to get him to let us visit the inside of the town. Sir Gauche will have a place to let your assistant stay."
"I don't like the possibility of me dying. It automatically kills my assistant, who gets put to death if their field marshal dies for any reason, anywhere."
"Yeah okay great. She can come with us if you want."
"You're also moving way too fast just because I showed up. Are you sure the crows are key in this, without something else forcing them? Any chance of an ambush?"
"The crows are easily the biggest and just about only lead I have! So, yes! I've done what I can."
"And I'm not going to find out you're doing your own thing, or doing something for Sir Gauche?"
"Uh, no, if I was only putting our interests in mind, then I'd be staying way clear of the crow zone! I wouldn't chance any weird ambushes or the mayor trying to kill me or anything like that! This is entirely for Fen's sake! Were you two not friends?"
"We are friends. That doesn't mean we're so close that we'd throw our lives away for each other. I want you to do this carefully instead of throwing me in danger like I'm expendable. Spend some time."
"Well I have, and the more research I do on the mayor, the more likely he's going to find out and try to kill me before I even make it there! If it makes you feel better, if things go bad, I'm going to die faster than you! And if you're trying to do your job right, then you have way more to gain from this than me, because all I'm trying to do is do right by Fen! We won't leave till tomorrow morning at the earliest anyway, but Moss, the only field marshals that survive for long are those who either abuse their position smartly, or live life on the run. And you are way too decent a person to do the former, so get used to running!"
>>
No. 967336 ID: 86eb65

Ok who is this Crow mayor? He is not a crow right?

If we are going in there I want all the info we have on crow land. I will have to be the one fighting any idiots in duels so if you know any good trainers I could use practice.
>>
No. 967338 ID: 36784c

>>967327
“Please tell me I don’t have to speak in crow caws when we go there.”
>>
No. 967342 ID: b1b4f3

>>967327
Alright, let's get some details in this plan. For instance, we need a safe place to sleep tonight. Then go collect Daspotta before she gets into trouble.

...do we have enough money to survive until next payday?
>>
No. 967343 ID: 1ed92d

>>967327
It seems you have little choice but to go in all the way to the hilt. This sucks.


...Bright side, by doing this you're also technically following Krix's orders, so you can figure out how to save yourself, Fen, your Ex-Wife and your friends while also killing noble jackasses and potentially finding a way to get Krix hit by a freight train.
>>
No. 967344 ID: ed763f

hhh, I can't even tell you I'd make a good run as a bent official for stabbing that body-double in the neck. I went to you and got fuckin' permission first. I don't even know what to think of that. Alright, let's do it, crow zone it is. Have you got a safehouse or something where my assistant and I can stay the night? I really shouldn't have left him alone this late.

We'll ask Daspotta our questions about the mayor of the crow zone.
>>
No. 967345 ID: 4b7dae

Don't be too antagonistic to Cheese. She's the only person who can actually teach you how to do this job and will do so without trying to play you too badly.

When she said "abuse your position smartly" she essentially meant doing things the way she does. The question you have to ask now is whether you can handle the sort of dirty dealing and underhanded skullduggery needed to get things done in Imperial politics. Because there's really no other way to play this game. And you're either going to be a player, or a pawn.

Take a moment to realize you might end up like Cheese if you do this long enough. Take a deep breath...

Right now you just need to focus on helping Fen. She's right about the crow zone. Based on your last conversation with her, it sounds like going there is going to be the fastest and most effective way to shed some light on this conspiracy. Because we know there is one.

As for Daspotta, we need to decide whether she's going to be an asset or slow us down. The best thing we can do for her is keep ourselves alive, and if she'd be a hindrance to that, she needs to stay behind. Otherwise, she comes.
>>
No. 967352 ID: e2f5cc

"I'm "way too decent a person" to be anywhere but guarding a nameless break town, yet here we are. I'm tired of getting marched around against my will, so I'm gonna take any chance I can to take matters into my own hands, and if I have to throw my weight around to do that then so be it."
>>
No. 967380 ID: ce39da

"I take it the third option of 'purge corruption so thoroughly that there's no one left that wants me dead' is something that would get me laughed out of your house if I suggested it?"

"Anyway, do you have an update on the hostages - that is, my wife and my best friend's whole family? I don't disagree with your suspicions about the crow town mayor - he seems like the perfect suspect when it comes to scaring the shit out of the crows, so it's pretty unlikely he doesn't have some connection to Sayanos. I just don't want them all to get got while we're off resolving this. Hell, I'm worried they might already be dead."
>>
No. 967383 ID: 567477

You're stressed out, man. That's natural, of course, but keep tabs on it. I know you don't like Cheese, either, but she is seriously helping you out. Remember, she got you out of the whole Sayanos vice you were in. It led to this, but better this than being forced to go kill Fen or die plus your friends and loved ones, right? Oh, yeah. You should ask if anything else has some in about them, while you're here.

As for abusing your position smartly... well, you're an honorable guy, sure, but you did already show once that you don't mind getting underhanded with people who you think deserve it. Remember that whole thing you tried on Cheese at Fen's trial? So, as long as you're careful about it to make sure you're not screwing over anyone worthwhile, and you make sure to keep it on the quiet, you wouldn't mind? It's a thought. If it makes things easier and safer for you, and helps you help more deserving people...?
>>
No. 967385 ID: e05ad0

You don't have much of a choice. Helping Fen will help your loved ones as well. Fen succeeding in the future is good for everyone in the long run. So stop complaining and get to work. The sooner the better.
>>
No. 967397 ID: a9af05

>>967327
We should bring Daspotta with us. She's our assistant, so let her assist us with all of the things that we're going to be doing.

>Too nice to throw weight around.
"Alright, if that's the case, then I want you to bribe pay me to come with you and help you with this problem of yours. And also because I'm almost out of money right now."
>>
No. 967398 ID: 015bf2

Go with Cheese, because it'll help Fen and if the crows are involved with hiding Sayanos, they are at least partially to blame for the situation you find yourself in. He wouldn't have sent a body double your way and fucked with your life if he didn't have aces like them up his sleeve.

And you don't have a lot of options.

Also, consider easing up on chewing out Cheese. Aside from Daspotta she's pretty much the only support you've got, so even if you are still angry at her and disapprove of her ways there are better ways to deal with that, and you should definitely bite your tongue considering the proverbial debts you'll start racking with her.

Definitely ask whether she can check up on Gahn, his family and your ex-wife. If she's got recommendations for how you can protect them, take those. If you need money to enact said recommendations... well. A) she was already salivating at the prospect of having a pocket field marshal and B) you could always ask for advice for income that doesn't rely on being a bastard to people.

Well. Decent people.

If bounties are still on your mind, Cheese's network could be of help in tracking them down for you to punk and she can take a cut or aim you at opposition. She can also fit the specs for 'em so you don't have to worry too badly about the morality of killing / hauling them in. And she gets to point you away from her own peeps too, by simply not telling you about them.
>>
No. 967403 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159009706559.png - (26.45KB , 800x800 , 1430.png )
967403

"'Too decent' to do anything but guard towns too small to have a name, but here we are. I'm sinking deeper and deeper into some imperial muck I can't get out of! I'm being marched around against my will, put into a job against my will, and all I can do is do the job well even though I know that the reward for good work is more work, but it's better than messing it up! I came here because I didn't see any other choice, and now you want me to get some sleep and march off to the crow zone, where I'm the one who has to duel any nobles who want to challenge me, without even giving me time for some sparring practice to shake off my rust!"
"The mayor isn't going to duel you. He's not exactly in combat shape."
"What, is he a crow, do I need to start squawking my words out?"
"Uhh... no, and please don't squawk."
"What is your plan with the mayor, anyway?"
"Mostly? I'm pretty sure the miners there found a gold vein and he's hiding it for himself, even though he's absolutely going against the empire's law about that."
"Blackmail? You want to blackmail him?"
"Yeah, but all I'm asking is passage through town, not some huge gold share!"
"And you think he won't just kill us for knowing too much?!"
>>
No. 967404 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159009709092.png - (26.43KB , 800x800 , 1431.png )
967404

She doesn't reply, and that gives me enough time to realize how stupidly hostile I'm being. Another deep breath.

"Nevermind. I want time, but I'm taking all of this out on you when I shouldn't. I'm sorry."
"I understand. I've said this before and I'll say it again. You might not like me, but I like you. So I'm rooting for you, and I'm going to do what I can to make sure you get out clean on the other side, okay? But that means I need to push you, because even if you deserve to laze about in a cushy job, you, and I cannot emphasize this enough, you cannot live like that right now. I'm sorry if I'm calloused to your plight, but this is kind of my life, constant stress and thinking there's going to be an assassin with a knife barging in here at any given second. But I'm used to it, you've only recently been dragged into it. And there isn't an easy way out. All I can offer is teaching you how to make do until an opportunity for escape comes by, and I don't think you came here because you had any better choice."
"... Do you have a safehouse I can stay in, tonight? One for me and Daspotta, my assistant?"
"Yeah. She can just stay in an inn, I'd think. I'll show you to... well, it's a hole in the ground, but it's got a cozy bed and it's very safe."
"Can I get you to find out if Gahn and Val are okay?"
"I am, as best I can. So far so good. Uh... geez, look. I said I'm going to push you but it might not be that bad put the crow zone back a day or two. Maybe you need a break more than I thought. I can get you a sparring partner or two. They probably won't be gentle, but you can drink and lay around and be yourself otherwise."
"I only have a couple silver left."
"I'll give you money." Damnit, I'm feeling shittier by the second for being hostile.
"I was considering bounty hunting."
"Yeah that's not a bad idea, if you don't mind hunting people that will fight back. Ifff you want to stay around town for a couple days after all? Otherwise, better get some rest now."
>>
No. 967406 ID: e2f5cc

Let's sleep on it and think some more in bed/tomorrow.
>>
No. 967408 ID: 015bf2

No. If she thinks you need to get into this hard and fast, you'll go along - though you'll want sparring opportunities ASAP after. And a night's sleep. The last few days have been rough.

One more thing... about when you spoke to Krix.

Not only did he know all about your past - apparently he remembers all his ex-soldiers not that there are many left - but... he said he wants to personally kill Fen to prove himself a worthy owner of the Dragoncloth.

Your specific mission from Krix was to slay or jail all the nobles that are trying to target Fen against Krix's bidding. Krix even offered you the assistance of his spy network, but you...

You have no idea how to get in touch, or if you even want to.
>>
No. 967409 ID: 86eb65

Keep moving. If you stop to laze now it will all come crashing down on your head.

Your only way out of this mess is to get powerful enough so people will leave you alone.

So get a good nights sleep and some food. And some exersice and sparring to freshen up your rusty bones incase crow major is not hiding gold but something more dangerous.

Then get on helping Cheese and doing your new job the best you can. Just remember to always get paid. Whatever job you do make sure that it benifits the cause somehow.
>>
No. 967410 ID: e05ad0

Take a nap, then you can think more after it. SAY YOU ARE SORRY, lIKE YOU MEAN IT.
>>
No. 967414 ID: b1b4f3

>>967408
Speaking of which it's probably a good idea to relay a detailed account of that entire conversation with Krix.

>>967404
Delaying won't do much except let you spar to shake off your rust, and you can do that today. It's not nighttime or anything. You should leave tomorrow, unless Cheese has a good reason to delay.
>>
No. 967416 ID: 1ed92d

>>967404
Apologize again and sleep on your face. You can think about contacting Krix's army of ninjas tomorrow, after you've gotten less tired. Maybe had some nightmares to get you back on edge.
>>
No. 967417 ID: 103eae

>>967408
this

also spar tonight as much as you can.
>>
No. 967419 ID: ed763f

Nah, we need to go in. No real point in putting it off for just one day. We'll get that night's sleep and meet up somewhere tomorrow morning.
>>
No. 967423 ID: e05ad0

>>967408
Oh shit, i totally forgot this. This is important information. We should somehow relay this to Fen somehow.
>>
No. 967424 ID: ce39da

Yeah, do tell her about how the illegal Fen Hunt is absolutely not something Krix signed off on, as far as you know. Ask that she relay that to Fen, too. Krix may be a bastard, but he's not a lying bastard.

"Nah, it's better to rip this bandage off sooner rather than later. It's just that you're basically the only person in the world right now I feel safe about venting to. Sorry about that."
>>
No. 967463 ID: 4581f5

Take a nap, two hours should give you a little energy without leaving you groggy. Then off to business, sooner than later is a mindset I think you’ll benefit from in this job.
>>
No. 967464 ID: 4b7dae

Moss. You need to get some rest. This day has been absolutely insane, and your brain needs time to process it.

At the moment, not too many people should know where you are. Cheese will know how to keep it that way. You can't delay too much, but she's suggesting it for a reason. Listen to her.

Actually, you should take some time to just shut up and listen to her in general. You came to her for a -reason-, because -she- knows how to do these things and -you- don't. You knew when you came here that her advice was going to involve lies, manipulation, blackmail, and even murder. You came to her anyway, because you knew on some level that this is what you were going to have to do to move forward. You don't have to like it, but you didn't ask for this.

You're going to have to clear the air with her, because you unfortunately are going to be partners for a little while, or maybe even a long while, and you can't be at each other's throats while everyone else is trying to cut them.

But before you get any further into planning, you need to calm down and get in a rational state of mind.

And before that, you need to apologize. Again. In the end, Cheese didn't ask for this either. Mutants don't ask to be born mutants, and this is the only kind of life they can live. Desperation makes good people do bad things, and eventually you don't even see them as bad anymore. You're starting to realize how that feels, and you don't like it. You don't like it one bit.

Also, take her money. She would do the same thing if your roles were reversed. You can pay her back eventually. She's unlikely to hold it over your head, because didn't she just escape out from under a massive amount of debt bondage? Ideally -you- should end up funding -her-, once you have sufficient streams of income. Illicit income. Which she's going to help you to get.

You don't like these thoughts. You're going to grit your teeth again, aren't you. That's fine.

Take a deep breath, now...
>>
No. 967465 ID: 36784c

>>967404
We should at least stay near Daspotta. We don’t want her to think we abandoned her, right?
>>
No. 967484 ID: adb916

Lets sleep, but first we have to get Daspotta.
>>
No. 967528 ID: bb78f2

>>967404
Ok, wait, you're saying I deserve it... does that mean, in your head, retiring peacefully is actually possible? I don't care how hard that is, I'll do it.

MY LOVE FOR LOAFING ABOUT IS LIKE FEN'S LOVE FOR LILY! IT IS PASSIONATE!

I WILL RETIRE!
>>
No. 967659 ID: 15a025

Let's go grab Daspotta and sleep on it.
>>
No. 967677 ID: 7cc58f

>>967659
>Let's go grab Daspotta and sleep on her.
Fixed that for you.
>>
No. 972484 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159494247870.png - (23.27KB , 800x800 , 1432.png )
972484

I think about it. She waits for my answer.

"No, I'm going to make it worse for myself if I pretend everything's okay for a couple days. Let me get Daspotta a room. Get me a sparring partner tonight for a quick session, then I'll sleep it off."
"Sure thing. Do you remember the way here?"
"Yeah. I'll knock. By the way, something I just remembered... Krix wants to kill Fen himself. All those assassins after Fen are using Krix's name against his wishes. I think part of why he made me marshal, is to deal with that."
"Ohh, really! Interesting. I'll let Fen know."
"Okay. I'll be back, and.... sorry, again. I'll try to listen to what you have to say, since I think you know how to work this job better than me."
"Well here's a tip, stop apologizing every minute! Do you always apologize this much?"
"If I did, I'd be a lot better at it. You're the only one I can vent to, and the last one I should. It's just occurred to me that I must be complaining about stuff that you've had to deal with your whole life."
"Yeah.... and I had my whole life to prep for it, but you got thrusted into it totally unprepared. That's a different kind of challenge. I'm not easing you into this job either, but just follow my lead. And try to get your mean look down. Look like you want to kill! Right now you look like you want to die."

I must be making a bad face, because she takes one look at it and instantly regrets.

"Bad joke, bad joke! I'm not letting you die, it won't be easy for either of us but I'm going to pull you out of this as best as I can! By your own tail if I have to!"
"Don't misunderstand me, Cheese. I fear death more than anyone else I know."

It's weird to me that she cares so much for my life, and I wonder if it's an act. I take her money and go.
>>
No. 972485 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159494249274.png - (70.79KB , 800x800 , 1433.png )
972485

Daspotta waited right where I told her to after sundown, just as ordered.

>"Hello, sir!"
"Hello, Daspotta. Please, just 'Moss' when I'm not openly declaring my station."
>"Sure thing, uh, Moss. What's the plan?"
"I'm going to get you a room. I won't be staying in the same inn, but I'll meet with you tomorrow morning." I haven't decided if I'm bringing her to the crows.
>"Understood."
>>
No. 972486 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159494253546.png - (65.85KB , 1200x800 , 1434.png )
972486

After returning to Cheese, she brings me to what looks like the town's training hall for Sir Gauche. Cheese tells those in charge that I'm a guest in need of sparring practice, and doesn't tell them why I'm a person of interest.

As she mentioned, they aren't gentle. They act as though this is a serious competition, with a prize to lose if they don't beat the hell out of me. There's no sense I'm welcome here, and I even think they're being rough on me just to try and get me to leave on my own accord. For some reason, I don't.

As I stay, the intensity rises, and we spend the early night bashing each other with sticks.
>>
No. 972487 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159494269535.png - (68.88KB , 800x800 , 1435.png )
972487

I finally have a good couple of rounds that allow me to leave without having to make excuses. Cheese saves me a coin by letting me stay in an underground side room. I'm glad I stopped sparring before I got too beat up. Those training swords stung, and they hit my unpadded snout at every chance they got.

Yet I may as well have stayed. It turns out that getting beat up was a nice distraction from being field marshal.
>>
No. 972488 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159494275459.png - (75.60KB , 800x800 , 1436.png )
972488

I hear Cheese's feet clopping in, and I expect she comes with every intent to drag me out.

"Moss? You awake?"
"No."
"Just sleep talking with your eyes wide open, huh?""
"It can't be morning yet. Leave me be."
"I think you've been lying down for longer than you think, I hope not like that. Get up, because even if I leave you be, life won't."

I grunt on behalf of my poor spine. I was a fool to think I could sleep in chainmail. In a state of near sleep, I attempted to remove it before my fur snagged on it and I gave up.

"I've got some breakfast cooking. So! Is Daspotta coming with us?"
>>
No. 972489 ID: 465a14

If she's trustworthy, why not. If she's untrustworthy, better to find out now than later. Do it.
>>
No. 972493 ID: 4f51b2

>>972488
"Her life is tie to mine, she comes with bus".
>>
No. 972494 ID: 86eb65

Yeah better get used to her being attached to my hip.

Cheese would you keep a eye on her with me? She might be trustworthy or she could be a plant to find out secrets.
>>
No. 972495 ID: e2f5cc

>>972489
Pretty much this
>>
No. 972497 ID: 36784c

>>972488
How are you supposed to get that chainmail off without making your entire body bald?

>Is Daspotta coming?
Yes she is.
>>
No. 972526 ID: 1c1d17

She is, that is why i brought her with me. I just hope she learns... something from this.
>>
No. 972527 ID: fa2754

>>972494
~
>>972497
~~

Yes, she can't rat if she's never left alone. She's with us.
>>
No. 972550 ID: 44b1b5

Maybe we should ask Despotta what the protocol is for when a lead on a case would take a Marshal outside his jurisdiction. (Also inform her that we'll only do "regular inspections" when we don't have any leads on an active case.)
>>
No. 972587 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159503041893.png - (129.40KB , 800x800 , 1437.png )
972587

"Since her life is tied to mine, I won't do her any favors keeping her away from me. She comes with us."
"Alright."
"Just keep an eye on her. I don't know if she's just sent with me to keep an eye on me or something."
"Uh, okay, I'll do that."

I lay here thinking how to get my chainmail off my face. There's leather underneath, but it's tough pulling it over my head without some of my fluff catching it.

Then again, the pants and the shirt are separate, and it's the shirt that gives me issues. Maybe I don't need to take the shirt off, ever. I can just live like this now.

"... Are you expecting me to fetch her myself?"
"Could you? She's at the Thinlog Inn."
"No! That was rhetorical! I'm busy with breakfast anyway."
"Give me time."
"Fine, then I'll bring breakfast to Daspotta, and we'll eat it all up! You can have the road rations you want after you mess up your posture some more."

.... I smell eggs and meat. Meat with real sauce.
>>
No. 972589 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159503052596.png - (148.78KB , 1000x800 , 1438.png )
972589

I'm not proud of the why, but I do get up, get Daspotta, and get back in time for breakfast. I'll ask her about how to do things outside of Krix's area of influence later, since I should save some conversation for the road.

>"It's nice to meet you, Cheese. Thank you for breakfast, and thank you for inviting me here, Moss. May I eat as well?"
"... why are you asking me? Cheese made it."
>"Yes, but I must have the permission of the field marshal! Up until now you've either given me food or implicit permission to eat, but since you haven't really done that right now, I have to ask. Otherwise I can only eat what you leave behind, after you completely finish."
"There's way too food much here."
"Something tells me you could pack all this away, Moss."
"What is that suppose - nevermind, you're not wrong, but I'm not gorging myself. Daspotta, the idea of giving you permission is just going too damn far."
>"Oooh. Er - then I will wait until you are done!"

She spoke sooner than I could explain what I meant, and Cheese turns at me.
>>
No. 972591 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159503060920.png - (23.71KB , 800x800 , 1439.png )
972591

"Don't give me that look! Daspotta, eat, damnit."
>"Thank you for permission, sir!"
"That's not permission!"
>"Wait - may I eat, or may I not eat?"
"I'm telling you, as both a field marshal and as a regular person that isn't insane, that it's ridiculous to ask me permission to eat food made and given by someone else! Eat without permission!"
>"Ww... well, no matter how ridiculous you say it is, I can't just break the laws and eat the same food at the same time without your permission! Even if it's an order, I -"
"It's not an order either, that's just as ridiculous, it's - "

I sputter and swallow the food I've been talking through, and that gives Cheese the chance to step forward just so she can turn at me again.

"Dragons above, Moss, just give her permission, she's starving."
>>
No. 972592 ID: 86eb65

I give you preemtive permission to eat at my side without asking for the rest of the time you are working with me.

This is a order to help keep our cover. If you keep acting like this there is no chance of me hiding my identity.

When we are around stuffy nobles who give a damn you can ask for permission.
>>
No. 972593 ID: f56a2b

>>972592
This is a good course of action.
Give permission to eat when I eat when we are both set to have a meal, but also set forward an order to maintain the politeness when around nobles.
>>
No. 972594 ID: 7dd242

"Ok, how about this: from now on in perpetuity unless I say otherwise, you have permission to eat food that has been freely given to you or that you've bought or that I've bought for you. If you think it'd be a good show or polite or otherwise a good idea to not eat you may also do that if you choose, on your own judgement. Do I need to give you similar permission for anything else? Sleeping? Bathing? Tending wounds? I want you to be able to take direction and follow orders, but I'm also not going to have the time or patience to micromanage everything you need to do to just stay alive and healthy."
>>
No. 972595 ID: b1b4f3

>>972591
Looks like you need to learn about the rule of the law. You're supposed to be enforcing it, after all.
>>
No. 972596 ID: e7848c

>>972589
Remind yourself to destroy bureaucracy later. Motion for your assistant to eat. Remark that royalties mannerisms are enough to drive a kobold to insanity.
>>
No. 972597 ID: ce3a9e

It seems you have a lot to learn about this job, save yourself a headache and give her permission now.
>>
No. 972599 ID: 1c1d17

>>972596
Yee.
Nobles are bonkers.
>>
No. 972604 ID: 44b1b5

Do remember to give regular permission if the ongoing granting idea doesn't work.
>>
No. 972612 ID: bb78f2

>>972591
She has permission.
We'll talk about this later when we're not pressed or stressed and maybe can come to a rational solution and food isn't in front of us.
>>
No. 972646 ID: adb916

>>972612
You have permission but we will discuss this further on the road.
>>
No. 972648 ID: 278f7f

>>972591
Yes, you have permission, eat.
>>
No. 972667 ID: 4f51b2

Just say she has permanent permission to eat when she feels hungry.
>>
No. 972671 ID: a0dfd2

>>972591

Just .... just tell our dear sweet brick of a partner that yes, she has permission now, and henceforth, and needn't ask in the future, and if she wants an order, than sure, it's a standing order that she may eat when she's hungry without requiring permission to do so.

(Oh gods, I hope I covered enough loopholes, there ...)
>>
No. 972702 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159513201569.png - (156.66KB , 800x800 , 1440.png )
972702

"Yes, fine, Daspotta, you have my permi... permission to eat, and take this as permission to do so from now on. Don't ask me again. You have permission to bathe, sleep, and breathe even if I forget to tell you to do all that. Any other mundane things that I need to give you permission for?"
>"Asking for a rest, if I get too tired?"
"You need permission to ask permission for that?"
>"It sounds a little silly when you put it like that, but yes."
"Okay you have forever permission for that too! Anything else?!"
>"Uh, nothing that I can think of that I'd do even with permission!"
"Such as?"
>"Hm.... like walking one arm's length behind you whenever you're travelling." She manages to pick out a slab of meat that hardly got any sauce on it. I try not to glare, but I've got a thought to shove the whole sauce pan in her mouth.
"I noticed your walking distance. I thought that was your choice, not some other arbitrary rule. You can keep doing that if you want, but you have permission to walk anywhere nearby. Not even nearby, just... as you will!"
>"Thank you, sir, but as I said, I wouldn't do that anyway just because I could."
"Why?"
>"While training and taking tests, I'd always get beat up if I drifted too far at the wrong time. Even though I don't think you'd do it, I'd still expect a hard stick ready to bruise up my legs from toe to thigh!"
>>
No. 972703 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159513206818.png - (241.47KB , 800x800 , 1441.png )
972703

She laughs like she said something funny.

"Yes, that!" Cheese calls out behind me. "That's the face I want you making at the crow noble! Let's go before you soften up. Anything you need to do before we leave?"
"Is there anything I should bring?"
"Uh, not that you don't already have. If things go bad, there's nothing we can bring that'll help much. You got everything, Daspotta?
>"Er..."
"Yeah?"
>"No, no, it's nothing!" I can feel her nervously glance at me.
>>
No. 972704 ID: 465a14

Take a few deep breaths, relax your face muscles, ask what's up.
>>
No. 972705 ID: b1b4f3

>>972703
Tell her she has permission to make a request.

I think we got the one that was *too* well trained...
>>
No. 972708 ID: dbd72b

Not much to do at this point but treat her better.

But Cheese is right. Get going while you still have a fresh dose of Fuck Nobles.
>>
No. 972709 ID: e2f5cc

"You have my... permission... to speak of any concerns you may have so long as we are not in a situation in which speaking those concerns may be harmful."

Attempt to not pop a blood vessel while saying this.
>>
No. 972710 ID: 86eb65

"Daspotta you are my right hand. I expect you to speak freely with me whenever we are not in the presense of nobles.

"If you hold back info or treat me like a stuck up noble it hurts both of us. I know it wont happen overnight but try your best."

Get her to speak up before heading out.
>>
No. 972714 ID: 6c227a

Okay, no, this one is an IMPORTANT one. Daspotta, standing order: If there is something that you believe I am forgetting or don't know, I ORDER you to bring it up to me privately. If, by your judgement, the situation permits, do so immediately. Otherwise, do it as soon as possible later. And while we're at it, if there is something that you personally need, I also order you to bring it up. I'm not a mind reader, and my life depends on your effectiveness as much as yours depends on mine.
>>
No. 972716 ID: a89ec5

>>972714
Yeah i agree, make this a thing. We can't think of everything every time, that is why we have her with us.
>>
No. 972726 ID: fa2754

Speeeeeeeeak.
Stuff your face before she makes you groan again.
>>
No. 972730 ID: 44b1b5

"Look... I'm not mad at you, specifically. This is just my first time being in a class above someone - my first time holding another kobold's basic dignity and freedom in the palm of my hand like they were privileges to be handed out. And I fucking hate it; I feel gross having that kind of power over you. I feel gross at the prospect of getting used to lording this kind of power over others. So please, as much as you want to act like my servant, I can only stay sane by treating you as my colleague. So yeah, you absolutely have my permission to speak freely at all times, except in the presence of nobles who give a damn about that, and neither of us has to like that little exception."
>>
No. 972731 ID: 7dd242

I wonder if all these requirements are really just nobles being asses, or if it's more intended to be, like, a bell around your neck? So your assistant gives away that you're arriving soon. You can discuss it on your journey, plus other things, like filling Daspotta in on what you're expecting to need to do when you get there and what her place in it should be.
>>
No. 972747 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159518479330.png - (113.06KB , 800x800 , 1442.png )
972747

I take a deep breath, forget to unclench my teeth, and therefore I let out an inward hiss.

"You have permission to speak your mind, Daspotta."
>"Th-thank you, sir."

She remains silent.

"You'd better not be thinking I'm mad at you. I'm mad that this set of rules seems to be made just for me to lord over you. If that's what being a field marshal is about, I'm not going to do the job well. You're my right hand, right?"
>"Uh... as your only assistant, some might call me that."
"If I had to give my right hand 'permission' to do anything, I would learn how to be left handed. I need you to do things on your own, not ask for permission any time you do anything. So please, speak."
>"I- I just wanted to remind you that one of my duties is tending to the appearance of my field marshal, sir!"
"Is there something wrong? I told you to speak your mind. Be straightforward."
>"Y-you're very dirty."

Cheese claps a mouth to her hand and wheezes.
>>
No. 972748 ID: 465a14

>>972747
Well, she's right. Go take a bath stinky.
>>
No. 972749 ID: 7dd242

Say "Thank you, Daspotta, I appreciate your advice. Cheese, do you think I could clean up in a way that won't be undone by the time we reach our destination? Perhaps we could take some water and some cloths to wipe down with just before we get there?"
>>
No. 972750 ID: 6303bf

... yes good point Daspotta, I should fix that.
>>
No. 972751 ID: a89ec5

Well, if we are going to a meeting to see the Crow King, we have to look presentable. Good advice Daspotta. Keep up the good job.
Give her a pat in the head.
>>
No. 972752 ID: 86eb65

That is exactly the type of advice I would like.

Thank you.

Cheese where is a good place to get us cleaned up?
>>
No. 972755 ID: fa2754

>>972747
Thank you.

Cheese, is there time for that?
>>
No. 972757 ID: e2f5cc

Daspotta: Go find out where the baths are here then come back and eat.

Cheese: I'm pretty sure I have the authority to beat the shit out of you, and I'm definitely sure that I don't care either way.
>>
No. 972759 ID: bb78f2

>>972747
Oh, thanks, might need to spruce up if I meet Gauche in person.
Cheese, how much does the crow king give a shit about appearance, espeically for a man that has to look like he's coming to kill him? IS me being dirty a plus?

I'm not being factitious here, being dirty or clean can mean a field of difference.
>>
No. 972764 ID: 677406

>>972747
Ah. Excellent, right, thank you.
>>
No. 972768 ID: b1b4f3

Oh you got all messed up from falling off your bed last night. Get cleaned up, and ask for Daspotta's help taking off your chainmail since it keeps getting stuck to your fur.
>>
No. 972777 ID: 1a04af

>>972759
This. We might be heading for circumstances where dirty might be good. But in the meantime, we'll keep in mind to get cleaned up before trying to interact with anyone respectable.
>>
No. 972785 ID: 36784c

>>972768
I think it’s not a good idea to remove our armor when we’re going into a potentially dangerous situation in the Crow Zone.

We can take it off to get our fur cleaned up, but we should put it back on before we go out there.
>>
No. 972786 ID: 53560f

“What has my life become?”
Thank daspotta and go get cleaned up. Also ask cheese that if she ever happens to find a loophole around this mess that she tell you for the sake of your sanity.
>>
No. 972792 ID: 214cda

Go get clean. Drag Wheezen Cheesen along with you. For (petty) revenge.
>>
No. 972793 ID: 45acae

Be that as it is, you were just yesterday feeling self-conscious about your ability to be undercover while squeaky-clean.

Also damn Moss you must be REALLY wound up if YOU can't get to sleep.
>>
No. 972861 ID: ce3a9e

>>972752
This. Thank her and reinforce that this is why you wish for her to be able to speak more freely.
>>
No. 973182 ID: 15a025

Well you did work up quite the sweat last night and slept on the ground. Go wash up, you wouldn't to give the crow lord a bad impression of your personal hygiene.
>>
No. 973187 ID: dbd72b

Cease thou musk
>>
No. 975169 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159855035080.png - (166.94KB , 800x800 , 1443.png )
975169

"Yes, thank you, you're right." Being dirty fits for undercover work, but... "For face to face interaction with the noble, I should be clean. I wonder if I won't get dirty again by the time we get to the crow zone."
"That depends," says Cheese, "if you're going to spend the trip sleeping half out of bed, rolling all over the ground."

I see her cheeky grin when I turn. She speaks awfully bravely to someone who most likely has the right to beat the hell out of her. She must feel confident I won't, and she's right. I still can't take it lightheartedly like I could if it were Nawm or another friend.
>>
No. 975171 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159855041048.png - (21.39KB , 800x800 , 1444.png )
975171

It gets a bit awkward, and Cheese speaks up again.

"We don't have all day for bathing though. Or, do you take quick baths?

I consider my answer.

"No."
"Okay, no problem, because you're going to be giving off an image of a rough marshal who doesn't care, so you should look a little ruffled. Daspotta, you can carry transport carts, yes?"
"I can!"
"I'll get a cart, and Moss can sit there and clean up a bit without overdoing it."
>"Yes! That's a good idea, Cheese!" Daspotta says.
"I just finished a speech about not lording over her, don't just have her carry me in a cart!"
>>
No. 975172 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159855042035.png - (25.05KB , 800x800 , 1445.png )
975172

"Look at her, Moss! She's been trained probably her whole life to get lorded over, you can't just cut her off from that. She won't know what to do with herself! So ease her into the idea that she can act as she pleases, don't just disallow her from carrying you!"
"What are you even on about? Daspotta, do you want to carry me in a cart?"
>"Yes, sir!"
"I'm not asking you as field marshal to slave or assistant or whatever, I'm asking you as one colleague to another."
>"Cheese is right, sir, I'd feel a lot more comfortable doing something for you!"
"Don't answer as my equal and call me 'sir', answer on your own accord!"
>"I'd like nothing more than to let you rest while I do the lifting, s- equal!"
"I think you're speaking as my assistant, still, not - "

Cheese stands between me and Daspotta.

"Moss! Shush! Eat breakfast, finish, let's go already!"
>>
No. 975173 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159855043540.png - (128.92KB , 800x800 , 1446.png )
975173

It's only surface level dirt, so a comb and a damp cloth are enough hygiene for now.

I do run my chainmail through water on the way out of town, and dry it off just as quickly. I just know I'm not getting it back on without snagging more fur, and I'd be glad to have a bandit jump out of the crops and stab me in the torso just so I stop feeling regret for grabbing it. I'll hold that thought until after I put it back on.
>>
No. 975174 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159855044841.png - (84.73KB , 1000x800 , 1447.png )
975174

I don't know how I managed, but I forgot how much I hated being in a place like the crow zone. The air has a surprising amount of surrounding mana, but the land itself is is dead. It makes me remember things I don't need to remember. I bear it while Cheese speaks with the guards, and despite my reluctance, I have to flash my badge before the guards open the gates.

They take their time looking at the badge. I hope they're doing it because they're trying to remember what a field marshal is, not because they're trying to see if it's made out of real gold.
>>
No. 975175 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159855046343.png - (178.30KB , 1000x800 , 1448.png )
975175

The citizens look more sickly than what I'm used to, but in a place like this, it's no surprise. Then again...

"Hey, Cheese. It only takes one wizard to infuse a communal building with mana so the ground isn't dead. A town like this can rotate kobolds through it occasionally enough to stop them from suffering the effects of dead land. So why are these kobolds so sick?" It's not just like they've been worked hard. There's a lethargy and paleness to them that goes beyond fatigue.
"The resident governor just doesn't care about doing that. Or maybe they do it for valuable workers, but this is only the top section. The town's bigger than you think."

I just realized that a lot of prisoners from Krix's dungeon get sent here. I look away and keep my head down, because there's nothing to gain from getting recognized by a prisoner.
>>
No. 975176 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159855049535.png - (68.81KB , 800x800 , 1449.png )
975176

We park our cart outside of the noble's gated manor, and carry what we have with us. As expected, the ground within the manor gates is normal and healthy.

Cheese sits down on a bench just off of the path, and stares at the grass.

>"Are you okay, Cheese?" asks Daspotta.
"Oh, yes, fantastic. I'm just trying to refresh myself on what we're going to do." She lowers her voice to a whisper. "You know, blackmail. I hope I don't have to go that far, but we need to get into the lower mines, and we have to do more than ask nicely."
"And if he kills us for it?"
"Then we die. If you're in such a hurry, you don't even need me. Just go on in and tell him you want to inspect the mines, and when he says no, say you know he's embezzling, a traitor, and all that! It's not even like any of that is a secret, it's just that no one can or will do anything about it. Just make him believe that letting you in the mines is a better option for him than killing you. He might even try and bribe you, so just come up with some reason why you really want to be in the mines."

She takes a deep breath.

"But if you want me to do the talking... then let me sit on this bench for a minute."
>>
No. 975178 ID: 465a14

Maybe she's hungry for grass. Offer her some.
>>
No. 975179 ID: 86eb65

"This sounds like a two person sit down." Sit down next to her and plot.

"If it's not distracting why don't I run some ideas off you?"

1. If I ask and he says no can I just you know... (kill him on the spot) Avoid saying this out loud.
2. What reasons if any might he give for not allowing us in? And what can I call him on if he does?
3. What are they mining here? Before the gold that is.
4. If I ask and he says no and we leave won't he send someone after us? I mean all I will do is go back and report that he is hiding stuff and get Krix to replace him right?
5. Do we need any proof that the gold exists?
6. Your general idea was to let him know that we know his secret and then get him to let us do whatever we need in exchange for keeping it hidden right?
7. What would the crows prefer? If we have any idea what they are up to right now. Could they be involved with the gold cover up? Maybe trying to use to to expand there power? Or maybe they are being blackmailed as well?
>>
No. 975181 ID: cd2799

Just or unjust, you're going to have to get used to wielding authority if you want to survive this position Moss. What Cheese is suggesting seems- a bit much for you, but it seems unfair to let her do all the work.

Maybe there's a way you can work together here. What if you suspect one of the workers here is a criminal, stolen something from Krix, and you need to look into the mines in case they stashed something down there? Something that won't directly implicate the noble here, and lets them feel like they can throw someone under the bus to get out of any potential trouble. Basically apply pressure, but give the outs that they think work for for them, but in fact help you.
>>
No. 975182 ID: 831d71

You should probably do the talking, Moss. This'll be your first big appearance as a Marshal, and you want the rumours to be that you brought Cheese here to help you out, not that she brought you here to help her out. Talk it over with her, quietly, before you go in, but you take the lead once you're in there. It'll keep Cheese from being more of a target to people, too, if she's seen as a minion rather than a ringleader. You might have to look like you're bullying her a bit.

First, keeping him from killing you. That's easy enough, just make it sound like you have a trail behind you that'll tell people what happened if you go missing. Which you have! He'll know you're new, so when you're introducing yourself, you can mention that Krix has been angry about the disrespect he's been getting from lesser nobles, and his underlings going behind his back on things, so he pulled you out of your cell to try do what his other Marshals couldn't. That'll let him feel that Krix is going to pay attention if you die and that you're dangerous (since you were 'in prison' when he recruited you). You tell him that you decided to come here after exchanging some missives with Sir Gauche, so he knows you'll be missed (if he's smart he'll know Cheese is on Gauche's employ, too - give her a visible glance when you talk about talking to Gauche). Then you tell him you will be continuing more inspections after this, and while you already know there's some... irregularities, here, you expect that there'll be different levels of 'priority' in the things you find along the way - things that need dealing with first. People who seem like they want to get in the way of a marshal's investigation will be higher on that list than people who are helpful. The more helpful, the lower on the list. Right?

Yes, that's basically soliciting a bribe, but this way you can see if you can help the workers, too. If some of them are from Krix's prisons, that's good, that gives you another link to say why you're here when you're in Krix's employ. Start off looking like you're thinking to investigate everything, and when he tries bribe you, tell him extra gold in your pocket it hard to hide, but information in your brain is easy - so long as it's trustworthy. Don't turn away bribes entirely, but only accept bribes in the form of information for your job, which hopefully Daspotta can remember for you. Let him 'talk you down' in what you investigate here, with offers, but let him know the two things you'll need solid answers on are the condition of the mines and the condition of the workers. Let him fill you with information on other people of interest if it lets him feel like he's making himself safer and getting him something from you (that you didn't care to keep anyway), but hold fast that the two things you need to be certain of, and detailed on, are the conditions of the mine and the mine workers. They're the two real assets that Krix is interested in, here, after all. The mine is what can be gotten out - and what do you know, Krix's territories are right nearby, so that's important to him - and the workers are how it's gotten out, and troubles involving either are expensive. Dead workers don't produce, sick workers aren't much better, and Krix's people do make note how many replacements he gets asked to send out here from his cells. Isn't it cheaper to hire a mage now and then? Especially when Krix has other uses for the able bodies in his prisons? You can try give him a look with that last bit, as if you're revealing some clue to him by saying it. The rumours that spread from that might get Krix being looked at harder by other nobles, but you probably want that, yourself.

Ask Cheese for some other realistic-sounding things to 'want to investigate' that you can mention and then be 'persuaded to give up on'.
>>
No. 975185 ID: f3f534

>>975176
It looks like Cheese's tail has gotten stuck between the seat and the backrest on the bench. You might need to help her get her tail unstuck so she can stand up.
>>
No. 975187 ID: b1b4f3

>>975176
Wait, aren't those listed crimes enough for a field marshall to kill him anyway?
>>
No. 975191 ID: e77a36

>>975185
I don't think she's stuck, she's too flexible for that. It's what allows her to crawl through the Fence's tunnels.
>>
No. 975193 ID: 36784c

>>975187
That’s true. But I don’t think we’d be able to get away with it, since I’m pretty sure someone would kill us before we could get anywhere close enough to stab the guy.
>>
No. 975199 ID: ce39da

We'll make it clear that we're willing to look the other way on everything else for the near future so long as he cooperates with the current investigation. We'll end up dead fast if we garner a reputation for stopping to clean house wherever we go, effectively saying "time for the nuclear option when this guy steps to your doorstep." That's why we follow this mantra: "Active case takes priority over all else."
>>
No. 975202 ID: 2e15a9

Why not just... go to the mine? And tell anyone who objects where they can stick it? If we need to blackmail the governor, needing their permission to go somewhere kinda hurts our standing... In any case, you should do the talking. I don't want to find out Cheese has fallen off the Govenor's 'good list' while we were on the road. Even if she hasn't, the Governor will surely suspect foul play as soon as he sees her.

Only excuse I could think of is needing access to a prisoner for interrogation, if you knew any prisoners sent here from the dungeon by name. You could act like they hid ill-gotten treasure somewhere before they were captured, or maybe you're after one of their friends for some personal revenge- either is theoretically worth more than any paltry bribe the Governor could offer you. But then he could just offer to bring the prisoner to you instead of the other way around and you'd be SOL. You'd need another excuse to need to go after them yourself... Oh, maybe just say to his face that you hate this dead land and want to finish your business and leave ASAP. And of course, make it clear you'd sooner go through his financial records than leave empty handed, if he starts giving you a hard time.

If it works, your chosen patsy prisoner will also be SOL if the governor thinks they have info he wants, but sometimes life just fucks you. Pick a real bastard if it makes you feel any better.
>>
No. 975224 ID: 864e49

>>975176
She's probably waiting for the crows.
Too bad we can't just kill the guy but maybe the crows have a plan to get rid of him.
>>
No. 975229 ID: 53560f

I’ll give you a moment and follow your lead when we go in, I’d like to get an idea of how you handle these things before I start doing this myself.
Also before we begin, how many crows do you typically see at once at any given time? Because there are a lot of crows here.
>>
No. 975233 ID: dbd72b

give her a minute and talk shop
>>
No. 975257 ID: bb78f2

Cool, great... lets see. What's in the mines we need to see again?

I got a lie, tell them that due to fact that the Erja Nokol campaign is going on, we've received intel that undead have been carving underground networks throughout the entire nation. This requires inspection of many mines throughout the province, particularly from a Erja Nokol native. The Field Marshal is simply here to acquire the access through his authority.

The access to the lower mines will be the only bribe you will accept for his transgressions. The safety of the nation is at stake and we need to get to the lowest points of the province to protect it from undead invaders.

Let us inspect the mines and we'll be gone quickly enough.

How about that Cheese?
>>
No. 975262 ID: 36784c

>>975191
We the audience know that, but I don’t think Moss himself knows that. He’ll probably offer to help her and then realize she doesn’t need help.
>>
No. 975748 ID: 15a025

Sit down with Cheese and throw around some ideas with each other. Who's this guy embezzling? Is he looking for more targets? Maybe we could bluff about getting him in on another cash stream if he lets us in.
>>
No. 975771 ID: 0b3de0

>>975176
You likely should do the talking since you're the one who needs to get used to this job. So sit next to her and talk over the options you have here.
Also make sure her tail isn't stuck when she stands up again.
>>
No. 975931 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159968409564.png - (72.83KB , 800x800 , 1450.png )
975931

I sit down by Cheese.

"You look like you want to eat that grass."
"It's fantastic grass. They must have a landscaping wizard. Look at that unnaturally nice sheen on those blades." Cheese keeps her voice low, and I match it.
"Great. Are they mining anything besides gold down here?"
"Maybe some other metals, I don't know, but gold is a pretty motivating thing all by itself."
"And there's proof it exists?"
"Well, yeah. It's not like he's totally mining it all for himself."

I think aloud, half to myself.

"How do the crows feel about this? There's a whole lot of them around."
"They often come and go in waves. I don't think we should trust them right now. They're probably still trustworthy, and probably just isn't good enough."
"Okay. I should take the lead. I'll explain I'm investigating one of Krix's ex-prisoners who was sent here - or just the workers in general. We send a lot here. I'll say Krix is interested in the quality of the mines and the workers, even if he doesn't." I notice Daspotta. "Yes, I did not call him Lord. Get used to that. What is the local mayor's name, Cheese?"
"Lord Gahki. He's more likely to offer to bring a specific prisoner up, if that's your angle. Do your best not to backpedal or scramble for excuses to get in the mine. State multiple reasons why you might want to be in the mine, then you can just hop to other reasons. And as far as inspecting the working conditions go, on behalf of Lord Krix's workers... you know that this place is not owned by Lord Krix, right? It's Lady Apanya's."
"Here I thought Lord Krix was just taking over everything. That explains why I can't just go in and stab this guy."
"Haha, even if he was, he'd try to make his guards loyal to him, not Lord Krix."
"So what was your idea, if mine won't work well?"
>>
No. 975932 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159968415176.png - (48.80KB , 800x800 , 1451.png )
975932

"I didn't say your ideas won't work, but I want to make sure you're thinking more than one step ahead. My plan is that we poke and prod to feel out Lord Gahki, first. I think after the initial greeting, your ideas are a good launching point. You know, Lord Krix is obviously an ambitious asshole. Yes yes Daspotta I'm not supposed to say it out loud. Lord Krix may not be able to take this place from Lady Apanya, but he would benefit from having his own noble replace Lord Gahki. His field marshal arriving here is a statement. Either that statement is that Lord Krix is up to something, or you're here for your own benefit. So Lord Gahki might think Lord Krix is making a move against this place, because sure, Lady Apanya owns it, but if Lord Krix put his own corrupt stone noble in here, then he could get his own cut of the skimmed gold. It's either that, or Lord Gahki will just think you're here for bribes."
"I'll tell the guy I want information more than currency, by checking the mines. Why are we even talking to him? What's stopping us from just entering the mines?"
"The guards, basically. Yes, they'll stop you."
"Really. Fine, then, remind me why we're going in the mines?"
"Because the leaders of the crows should know why Fen is no longer in good with the crows. And if you don't care for Fen that much, then you can ask why they like Sir Sayanos so much."
"I care enough. I could also lie and say there's been reports of the undead carving undead networks. From things Fen told me, they'd try something like that."
"Hm? Ah, no, that's a pretty heavy thing to say. I think I'd like you to stick to the other stuff."
"Like your plan, which you didn't even describe. You just gave me some thoughts about what Lord Gahki thinks."
"Yeah? That is how I plan. I'm considering about things from Lord Gahki's angle, not my own. That and I stay away from specifics. The problem with play by play plans is that usually people don't follow the script you thought up in your head. Anyway if you want to take the lead, then good. I'll be your safety net. You can fall on me anytime. Here, I have a few more hand signals for you."

She covers a few, namely ones for me to give to her if I want her to take over, or ones she gives me if she wants me to shut up and let her take over. After I confirm I've got them memorized, she starts to stand up.

"Do you need help getting up? Your tail looks stuck."
"No thanks."

She twists around to put her foot on the backrest. Her tail does not seem to rotate with her. Then she pushes off, and her tail slides out as the first few lumps on her tail make audible thumps against the backrest as she pulls herself out.
>>
No. 975933 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159968416250.png - (27.62KB , 800x800 , 1452.png )
975933

I could spend all day here planning and plotting, but sometimes there's a point where overplanning is more harmful than helpful. I at least have some ideas, but before I walk inside, Daspotta whispers to me.

>"Sir, may I say something?"
"Please."
"Quietly though." adds Cheese.
>"Lord Krix does not have plans to put his own noble in place here, does he? That was just an idea that Cheese had to pressure this noble?"
"That's right I don't know if we'll be doing that. Why?"
>"I am obliged to remind you that you are supposed to be an extension of Lord Krix's will, and what you say is doing, uhm.... the opposite... of that. If Lord Gahki, or law forbid Lady Apanya gets a false rumor that Lord Krix is thinking of conquering the Crow Zone, that could cause a lot of trouble for him."

I stare at her. I don't know if she's just unaware of how little I think of Krix, or if she's stubbornly doing the best job she can. Either way, she's put forth a fine argument for acting like Lord Krix is here to take over.

"Bless your genuine mountain heart." Cheese says.
>>
No. 975934 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159968418183.png - (58.40KB , 1000x800 , 1453.png )
975934

The inside is expectedly well maintained. Decorative and gilded weapons and armor line the walls. Bones of creatures, crows and kobolds alike hang from the ceiling. This stone noble decorates his manor like he's gold.

>"Hello, sir and ma'ams." says a guard inside. "You are?"
"Field Marshal Moss."
>"Yes, Lord Gahki is waiting."
>>
No. 975935 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159968424297.png - (87.87KB , 1200x800 , 1454.png )
975935

We have our bags inspected and get ushered into a large hall. There are three guards plus the person who just brought is in, and two of them hang by the entrance.

Daspotta looks as nervous as ever. I hope I don't regret bringing her along this idiotic mess I've gotten into.

Cheese also said that he wouldn't duel me because he's not in combat shape. I don't know what she meant by that. Unless he has invisible physical limitations, he looks like he's in fine shape.
>>
No. 975936 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159968429527.png - (63.63KB , 1000x800 , 1455.png )
975936

>"You've wandered far outside of Lord Krix's roof, 'marshal'. Have you anything for my time?"

I'm already taken aback by the first thing out of his mouth, but Cheese must have anticipated it. She fetches an item out of her bag and hands it to me, which I hand to a guard that steps forward to hand it to Gahki.

>"A skull of a canyon kobold. No doubt a gift idea suggested by the unusual companion you have. Why are you here?"
"To enter your mines. Lord Krix has many prisoners sent here. I am interested in seeing some of them."
>"What is interesting about them?"
"Some of them may have information that is of interest to Lord Krix."
>"Which ones?"
"Only I need to know that."
>"And you expect to, what, go searching for them yourselves to get this information?"
"With your permission."
>>
No. 975937 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159968437808.png - (29.56KB , 800x800 , 1456.png )
975937

He reclines in his seat more.

>"I bought those slaves. They are mine, their secrets, their information, their bodies, their minds, everything about them. Lord Krix owns nothing here. And you? Your station is nothing but a worthless relic made to appease entitled lessers. You're a decorated peasant who has come here to demand to search through my property to take my possessions as though it were yours. Only by my generosity and entertainment have you succeeded in even meeting me, and you are quickly burning through both. I do not recommend finding out what happens if either one dies out, but at the very least, I would feel entertained if you stuck your tail between your legs and ran away."
>>
No. 975938 ID: 465a14

Probably safest to let Cheese go ahead with her plan than to try to improvise her, I doubt this kind of arrogant noble posturing was unexpected to her.
>>
No. 975939 ID: 465a14

Or just offer to fuck his ass or something tbh. He's a twink.
>>
No. 975940 ID: b1b4f3

>>975937
Huh, he's leading with threats? I'm guessing he's goading you into misbehaving so he has an excuse to order his guards to throw you out.
Fire back. Tell him it seems to you that he makes a habit of taking more than he's entitled to, so it would be hypocritical for him to deny it of you.
>>
No. 975942 ID: 86eb65

Smile a big smile.

"I belive that Krix will be very happy to hear that the exhaulted watcher of the crow zone is so interested in his slaves secrets."
>>
No. 975943 ID: f56a2b

>>975939
seconded
>>
No. 975944 ID: ce39da

"It seems we have similar thoughts about my position, even if I can't find myself speaking so lightly of it. But I wouldn't want to disappoint you by being so predictable."

>>975940
Then this, followed by: "Of course, I'm not here for whatever it is you could be doing. We believe that certain kobolds of interest in our active case have contacted certain individuals here, in this town. I can imagine you would be interested in finding out who dares to involve your 'property' in a plot that definitely offends Krix's gold title, and perhaps undermines even greater authorities than that."

All technically true, although I wonder if he might pick up on who we actually mean by "individuals" and "property." Stop if Cheese gives you the Shut Up signal, of course.
>>
No. 975945 ID: bb78f2

>>975937
I'm here to enter the mines because I must. I didn't come all this way just to turn tail at the slightest insult or threat. What do you take me for? What's the quickest way for me to get what I want and to get me out of your hair? I'm no courtier diplomat, and Krix would not allow one for a Marshal anyway, make it clear for the dumb little commoner given the authority to act in the noble courts.
>>
No. 975946 ID: 1ed92d

>>975937
Keep your expression as bland and lifeless as possible. You're a prison guard and a rest-stop guard, you're good at that. Signal Cheese to continue while you work on your most emotionless and stoic response. He's looking to get a reaction out of you. Ensure he cannot find one.
>>
No. 975947 ID: 03e96b

"I wouldn't recommend finding out what happens when those run out, either. If you did nothing, you'd be humiliated. If you ejected me, I might make quite a mess, and even if not I'd make enough noise to draw attention. If you killed me, even more of a mess and, you can be sure, even more attention. Krix doesn't own this place, you're right, but he has recently developed strong interests nearby, and as you say, you found it convenient to do business in his territory even before that. He is owed the right to be concerned. Either way, eject or kill, or most anything in between, you'd end up not being so well decorated yourself. Even if it's just by having to spread out some gold that you would have normally saved for something else. But if your entertainment and, more importantly, your generosity run deep, then we both avoid trouble, and... well, eventually we might both look back at this encounter and feel that we benifited. Is a few minutes' of some slave's time really worth much?"
>>
No. 975948 ID: c83316

>>975944
This. I like this idea.
>>
No. 975949 ID: bb78f2

I got a good way to segway to Cheese if you need it, refer to yourself as dumb muscle with the rank to get us in so you're going to let someone with more experience in politics speak since you can't be bothered anymore
>>
No. 975950 ID: 652b23

>>975944
Yeah let's go with this.
>>
No. 975951 ID: 8fab7a

Employ the blackmail and hope hope hope Cheese was correct. Deploy deadpan look to hide your utter inexperience at plottery.

"Little you say is wrong, in its essence. I am a gilded goon. You own everything here. Except..."

Stomp the ground a couple times.

"This is the Empire's. Krix is the Empire's Gold. You are the Empire's Stone."

Fold your arms.

"Is the Gold on Stone turf, or is the Stone on Gold turf, Lord Gahki?"

Incline your head slightly to indicate that yes, that was a none-too-subtle hint you know he's gold-diggin'.

"Whether you care about my position or not, there should not be any issue to letting me into the mines. I am well aware of their contents, and what could I take back out beyond a few measly words that your guards could not confiscate? Even were you to be so kind as to be concerned for my safety, this is a risk I will take. Should the worst come to pass you needn't even worry yourself about telling anyone, for you can rest assured Krix would be informed as to the nature of my ill fortune in time."

Incline your head again, after this implication that you've secured a deadbold's switch and boy howdy he'd raise heat by offing you.

"Whether any of your slaves have anything to say to me will be between me and them. With that concession, and the privacy of my own access, my trip here will remain between me and you."
>>
No. 975972 ID: 1c9556

Of course the slaves are yours. You bought them from Krix fairly. I take it you're happy with them, because you value every bit of them so highly that you fear what horror of horrors the words of a Field Marshal would cause them. So it seems to me it'd be quite a shame to let this little issue make future slaves of such high quality tougher to come by.
>>
No. 976045 ID: 505c9b

>>975944
Liking this one. Has the least amount of ways to be taken as a threat.
>>
No. 976144 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159994629514.png - (42.30KB , 800x800 , 1457.png )
976144

"You're right about my station, Lord Gahki, it is a gilded station that's lost any respect it might've ever had. But is is a recognized station of a gold noble, and your land may be getting used to plot against a gold noble."
>"A gold noble that has no territory here. Unless Lord Krix managed to gain the deed to this territory, I would not bow to him, let alone feel obligated to any under him."

He thinks lowly of me, but I think lower of him. Cheese steps forward.

"Know that marshals are the will of their gold title, Sir Gahki. As far as you should be concerned, you are talking to Lord Krix himself, so you would do well to watch what you say."
>"Then I'll watch myself let Lord Krix know that if he wants his property back, he'll have to buy it, because despite his 'will', he does not own the world."
"We both know he'll try exactly that, Sir Gahki. So you can act friendly to me, or you can see Lord Krix come back here to take more than just a few secrets and plots from a few slaves."
>"Hahaha, I'd like to see him try! Do you think the new golds wouldn't ally to oppress Lord Krix overstretching his arm? Or Lady Apanya seeing an excuse to finally squash that overambitious will? All you are convincing me of is that you do not need to tell him what transpired here yourself, I'll gladly shove my own written message down the throat of your disembodied head."
>>
No. 976145 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159994632842.png - (29.17KB , 800x800 , 1458.png )
976145

"Is that your generosity dying, Sir Gahki? You should be equally worried what will happen to you as a consequence of what happens to me."

I had trouble before thinking of what to say because I've seen him as a noble, and I don't know how to talk to nobles. But right now, I see a lot of similarity between him and an unruly farmer. I can talk to unruly farmers. I'd practically like too, so I don't hand this off to Cheese.

"Because while all of Lord Krix's enemies seek excuses to rise against him, Lord Krix himself would love to use self defense as an excuse to fight everyone around him. But I'm not here to set off a war, I'm here to talk to a couple of prisoners, and if your generosity can't even manage that, I don't doubt that Lord Krix will start selling his prisoners to people more cooperative."
>"Really? Good, then maybe when his dungeons overflow, he'll realize that I've been overpaying him. He doesn't send me miners, he sends me criminals and the dregs of the empire. Hm." He looks me over. "You're the closest thing to a hard back laborer that Lord Krix has ever sent me. Yet still trash who comes in here using a station you said yourself was unrespected in order to be granted audience without gratitude or so much as a single bow!"
"Whether or not my station is respectable, I'm not your hard backed laborer."
>"You should thank your freedom, then, because with the way you've come in here acting and taking beyond your station, I'd have your backside whipped until it was bald."
"Then we're both used to taking more than we're entitled to, aren't we?"

Cheese had better have been completely right about blackmailing him. This is escalating fast and Cheese is giving me no cue to stop.

>"And what am I taking that I am not entitled to?"
>>
No. 976146 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159994639084.png - (39.06KB , 1000x800 , 1459.png )
976146

"There appears to be more gold being mined than being - "
>"Reported to Lady Apanya, so on and so forth, the usual. And in exchange for your silence, you wish to enter the mines to investigate some prisoners that you don't want me to know the identity of, other than that they used to belong to Lord Krix?"
"That's right."
>"I'm proud of myself, marshal. To this day, all of the people who have blackmailed me have never seen a smudged copper coin for it. In fact, only three of them can live to regret their attempt. The others?"

He gestures to the back of his seat, towards his skulls.

>"They pressed me about it, and some of them had stations well above yours. The other three only escaped with their lives after begging for it. But you do have one thing going favorably for you. Your demands are by far the lowest. You say you're here to investigate a plot against Lord Krix? I think you're full of shit. The good warlord collects plots against himself like I collect bones. I think you have another reason for entering the mines. So I'll ask you again, do you just want information from a few prisoners? If so, I may have a proposition. Or, you tell me what you're really here for, and maybe that'll help us both get somewhere with this meeting. I'll even throw in forgiveness for your deception."
>>
No. 976147 ID: 465a14

Murdering him might lead to trouble but it also feels like the simplest option here, fuck getting drawn deeper into noble intrigue. Let's just kill him.
>>
No. 976148 ID: b1b4f3

>>976146
I wonder if he's lying about killing the others. He was given a gift of a skull, what if those are gifts too? He may present that threat to everyone who tries to blackmail him. He's leaned extremely heavily on intimidation and threats thus far. Maybe that's worked so far so he finds no reason to change? ...yeah I don't believe it, there's no way he was allowed to just keep the skulls and cover up the deaths of that many people.
Or the blackmail is a honeypot, and there *isn't* a discrepancy, Lady Apanya is just keeping some of the gold transfer off-record. That would fit Lady Apanya's style of doing things, I think. The blackmailers get killed off and whenever someone with real authority investigates the deaths they get proof that the allegations were false, which means the deaths are written off... and their belongings are kept by either this guy or Apanya. Wouldn't that information have gotten out somehow though? Heck, the three people he supposedly let go should've spread the word that this guy isn't to be fucked with. This is probably just a huge bluff that he's decorated his home to support.

Plus, didn't you just get him to shift in your favor? He went from "fuck you, you get nothing" to "tell me the real reason and I'll let you do it" So, I don't think he can back up his threats, and this has become a real negotiation. He wants something, so... maybe we can give him something? I don't think he'll let us through for free; if he shows weakness then he will get more people trying to take advantage of him.
Not sure what we can give him, though. Spilling the beans about the crows is Cheese's decision, and might not be a good one considering the crows are not supposed to be doing business with her to begin with. It might be better for her/you to come up with a more convincing lie. Something that this guy values more than the crows. Maybe we can say it has to do with the campaign against the necromancer?
>>
No. 976149 ID: ce39da

There is a truth we can safely confess, I think.

"You want the truth about what drove us to come all the way out here?"

Gage Cheese's reaction before you follow through - hopefully, she gets that we don't intend to reveal the part about the crows by how we worded the nature of that "truth" we're offering.

"Okay: I'm on the trail of the former Stone, Sayanos. Yes, reports of his death were greatly exaggerated. The odd plot is one thing, but when one of the conspirators - Krix's own Stone - lets a double die in his place and seems to abandon his duties as a noble by not coming forward about the truth of it... I think you'd agree that's a hard slight to forgive.
"We believe that Sayanos and his conspirators have contacted and forced cooperation from individuals that are indeed imprisoned under your rule in the mines, though the part about them originally coming from Lord Krix was a lie. Also, while I am only supposed to represent Krix's will, I have a personal stake against this plot, as it had threatened the safety of most everyone I cared for even before I was appointed Marshal. And it still does as we speak.
"Basically, if it will guarantee a sound, satisfying conclusion to this particular case... Well. Let's just say that I have not even begun to 'step outside my station' yet."
>>
No. 976150 ID: 5cb1b2

>>976149
this seems solid
>>
No. 976153 ID: dec3df

>>976149
This is good. He has lessened his stance, even if he doesn’t know it. Like a farmer who was previously saying he would beat someone for being lazy now saying the work loads can’t be proved. You can work with this. They’re a farmer of a vast field, yes, but they are ignorant of how dry those fields are. And you have a match.
>>
No. 976155 ID: 86eb65

"I count what three skulls back there? All that says to me is that you have only ever gotten 3 polite guests to visit you bearing presents."
>>
No. 976156 ID: bb78f2

>>976146
I'm meeting someone in the mines. More than that I don't want to say because I don't understand the full scope of the matter, I was given bare missive. They may or may not be a prisoner of your lands, I have very few details. I was told to use whatever authority and diplomatic means I have to enter the mines, including the information I may use in order to blackmail you into getting me inside to meet my contact. In all frankness, I'm just muscle here to get a simple task done, which is to meet someone with my associates here in the mines, and no one else, and that's it.

I'm expecting to just get ganked in your mines myself, not even by your men necessarily, but by whoever I'm supposed to meet. It'll probably fly that way, it usually does.

If there's more to this, I don't know and I don't care too much beyond that. I'm not one for games or much lying, so I go for the most believable bullshit I've got in my head and don't put much stock in it.

I'm really just lying here because I think it's expected of me, part of the big noble game, you know? You want a simple favor later for this? Sure, yeah, fuck it, if it ain't too much trouble and I don't die before I do it, I'll do it.
>>
No. 976158 ID: 470289

>>976147
Murder is never the wrong answer.
>>
No. 976159 ID: 695467

>>976149
This seems good, ye
>>
No. 976160 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159995804174.png - (34.52KB , 800x800 , 1460.png )
976160

He's definitely bullshitting me back, but I can't figure out what is and isn't bluffing. I'll continue on with half truths until I give up and try to do something stupid like kill him.

"Fine, there are some details I can share. I'm seeking out a Sir Sayanos."
>"Go on, I'm not fam - oh, of Pocktown?"
"That's correct. He faked his own death to hide from Lord Krix, who would like to know what he's up to. I've been told to use whatever means I have to do so."
>"So you are acting loyal to Lord Krix?"
"If you care, I have a personal interest in this too. The safety of those I care for are threatened. If you want a favor done so I can enter, I'll hear it."
>"I'm not asking for a favor. Give yourself, if you want to go into the mines."
"Myself?"
>"Yes, you'll work for me as a miner. Then you may enter, but not leave. That one there - " He points to Daspotta. "She's your attendant?"
>"Daspotta, Field Marshal assistant, sir!" she says.
>"Yes, that will do. Moss, you may go in and have run of the mine like the other workers, figure out what you need to know, while Daspotta will remain topside. When you find what you need, she can run back to report to Lord Krix on your behalf. This seems fair to me, because if you are honestly are here under Lord Krix's orders and the well being of others, then failure isn't an option, is it?"

I'm not sure if he honestly expects me to agree to that.
>>
No. 976161 ID: 465a14

>>976160
fuck his ass
>>
No. 976162 ID: e7c7d3

I think he's trying to goad Moss. Unrespected title or not, there's probably [i]some[/s] repercussions for killing a gold noble's marshal, which are probably mitigated if Moss attacks first. it's a game of chicken of who snaps first
>>
No. 976163 ID: e2f5cc

Try and get some cheese support in this, since you probably aren't accustomed to this level of absolute idiocy.
>>
No. 976164 ID: 86eb65

"You honestly know very little of Krix then. Are you honestly suggesting that I send back a messenger saying that a upstart noble has his Marshal working in the mines? Do you value your life so cheaply?"
>>
No. 976165 ID: 2e15a9

Did you miss the part where the people I care about are under threat? I'm not faffing about in a mine while they're in danger.
>>
No. 976166 ID: ce39da

"Surely, you don't expect this to be the last leg of my investigation? We're at an impasse; my investigation fails if I can't get down there to talk, but the same goes for if I can't leave after that. I know Krix well enough to know he'll do nothing but laugh if he hears I sacrificed myself in such an incredibly stupid way."

Perhaps now is the time to give Cheese the 'turning it over to you' signal; we're out of the 'officiality/dick-measuring' woods and into hard-tack haggling. Don't forget to introduce her as your "diplomatic advisor" or somesuch, and grant her permission to take over. No need to give her name, of course - if he knows already, then he knows; if he doesn't, then he won't need to, anyway.
>>
No. 976167 ID: 2e15a9

>>976165
Oh, you also don't plan on wasting away down there when he doesn't keep his end of the bargain.

Before all that however, look at cheese. Does she know of some kind of secret passage the crows can get us out via?
>>
No. 976168 ID: bb78f2

>>976160
I'm not interested in being a slave.
You've already said I'm asking the lowest price of blackmail you've ever received. You've pretty much admitted what I'm asking isn't worth a life of hard, brutal labor. Would YOU take that deal?

I've already shown you my cards. You know failure isn't an option since I'm working for Lord Krix. If diplomacy fails here, I'm expected to kill to get into your mines or die trying. So here's the brass tacks: we come to a reasonable deal, or shit's going to have to break down into some violence because that's my duty. And let's face it, if it comes down to that, that violence is going to, at least, factor negatively in your budget even if I die. So tell me, you want some gain or do you want some loss? I don't have other options at my disposal here.

Should I remind you I'm functionally asking to pay a mere toll?
>>
No. 976169 ID: 3e1b28

"Seems to me you're just after easy access to my skull. After I'm dead, you just make up a story. As if that'll stop Krix. If you wish to make bad faith offers that waste both our time, at least be less obvious about it."
>>
No. 976170 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159996103669.png - (33.38KB , 800x800 , 1461.png )
976170

"You honestly expect me to report back that I sacrificed myself into slavery for a single step of the investigation? That I let some stone noble imprison his marshal? Are you trying to get personally murdered by Lord Krix?"
>"And do you honestly believe that if Lord Krix got a report like that, he wouldn't shrug his shoulders, say good riddance, and put another sacrificial brat on the job? Because I suspect that's what will happen."
"You're offering me a chance to faff about with a pickaxe while I leave my significant others to danger. Either that, or giving me the chance to decorate your chair with my skull."
>"Your attitude has been offering me your skull, marshal. Let me put it simply. You are free to enter the mines, but you may never leave them. If that's a problem, that's your problem."

I look at Cheese to whisper a conversation.

"Is he serious?"
"More than he sounds. He isn't a gold, but since he's directly under Lady Apanya, he's got unofficial power beyond a stone. I think the offer was serious, and I mean technically it would work, you'd just have to investigate the mines yourself while I investigate an escape route. Uh, not that I'm recommending you do that, but it's not a total sham of an offer.
"Really, and it's not just him trying to get a look at my bones?"
"Okay if he was going to do that, then we're already fucked whether or not you take his offer. If we don't do that, and we can't find another angle, we might need to press on the blackmail after all."
"I take it he was full of shit about the skulls behind his chair anyway.."
"Not really. I mean, technically yes he was probably being dramatic about those skulls being the blackmailers, but it's totally possible that he's killed them. I can press the blackmail if you're ready, but that is seriously the last resort. If you have any other offers for him that isn't just retreading old ground or anything that could be taken as pleading, go for that, but if not, let me take over."
>>
No. 976171 ID: 465a14

>>976170
fuck his ass
>>
No. 976172 ID: e2f5cc

I have a feeling things will come to a head real quick one way or another once we pull out the blackmail, so try and think of a decent reason to get Daspotta out of here since she'd just be a liability in a fight.

And if she gets killed when we send her out, well, that just means she'd die anyways.
>>
No. 976173 ID: b1b4f3

>>976170
We could offer Sayanos' skull...
>>
No. 976174 ID: e2f5cc

>>976171
While a viable strat to establish dominance, applying non-consensual anal annihilation to nobility will likely do more harm than good.

Instead, wait to employ your mossy wood until he is stripped of both power and clothing (I.E. you beat him in combat) for maximum effect.
>>
No. 976175 ID: 2e15a9

Yeah, I think we'll try dying on our feet rather than going back to the fucking island. Do your thing, Cheese.
>>
No. 976176 ID: 86eb65

Just fuck his butt I guess.
>>
No. 976178 ID: e7848c

>>976173 if nothing else, there's this
>>
No. 976180 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159996510265.png - (31.33KB , 800x800 , 1462.png )
976180

What else do I have for offers...
>offer to duel so you can kill him
>offer to fuck his ass
>sayanos' skull

"Nothing, unless for some reason he cares about Sayanos' skull. Go for it, Cheese. Wait! Just a second."
"Eh? What's wrong?"
"Daspotta. You should leave."
>"Huh? Me? Why?"
"Things might get heated. You won't be any use, here."
>"If you die, I die. There's no reason for me to leave. If something goes wrong, I can at least obstruct a guard or two for a few precious seconds."

I've got a bad feeling about this.
>>
No. 976181 ID: 86eb65

"Gonna get you some combat training if we make it out of here then."
>>
No. 976182 ID: b1b4f3

>>976180
If she's that set on sacrificing herself it'd be better to try offering her to the prick.
>>
No. 976183 ID: 465a14

>>976180
use Daspotta as a projectile weapon
>>
No. 976184 ID: b1b4f3

Oh, and since Daspotta doesn't speak up for herself, ask her if she has any insights on how to get through this without a fight.
>>
No. 976185 ID: 465a14

>>976183
or just fuck his ass harder
>>
No. 976186 ID: e2f5cc

Fine, let her stay but don't offer her up, I doubt Moss would be able to live with it even if it did end up doing something.

Right before the moment of truth though, ask Cheese what Gahki's weakness or whatever is. And make sure she doesn't mince her words, since I doubt she'll have long before he interrupts and she has to pull out the blackmail.
>>
No. 976187 ID: 2e15a9

If this goes smoothly, tell Daspotta she was the right choice.
>>
No. 976190 ID: ce39da

We’re left with two last-resort options. If Cheese is already aware of what he does to blackmailers, and said it’d be a good idea anyway, I’d say she knows what she’s doing.

“You know, Sir Gahki, I’m guessing I’d only come off as real suspicious if I just accepted your offer outright, for reasons stated. So tell you what; I’m going to enter the caves. I’m going to get my information. This much is clear at this point, regardless of what happens afterward. I like it. Of course, if you plan on completely impeding my investigation after that point... well, we’ll see. Maybe I’ll discover something that can lead to a peaceful conclusion to this day. If not... who knows? Of course, when that time comes, it’ll be up to you whether blackmail will be the least of your troubles today.”
>>
No. 976192 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159996932133.png - (25.19KB , 800x800 , 1463.png )
976192

"First of all, do you have any idea how to get out of this without a fight?"
>"I'm - I'm sorry, I'm way out of my depth right now I think."
"Then it's either blackmail or just forcing our way in. Cheese, you said this guy wasn't in combat shape. What's his weakness then? He looks fine."
"He's not, and the guards will murder us if we just walk in. Blackmail is safer, believe it or not, and if you're ready for the blackmail, you're about to figure out what his weakness is.
"Then do it."

Cheese takes a step forward.

>"Ah, good." Sir Gahki says. "I've been wondering why you've been so quiet Cheese, when I suspect you're the one driving this business."
"Sir Gahki, I'm not 'in charge' of this, I'm only in charge of blackmailing you."
>"Oh, you'll press me about gold after all? You're that desperate to get eyes in the mine?"
"No one cares about the gold. It's obvious that Lady Apanya doesn't care about it, either. I'm talking your wizards. Your necromancy, your experiments, the hostages you keep and the blackmail you use. It's obvious you don't let anyone out of the mines, because of all the terrible secrets that would come out with them."
>"Oh, please, you think I can run a mine without anyone ever leaving? Did you not see my topside workers? Who do you think deal with shipments and logistics? Or did you just shut your eyes coming here and assume it's a ghost town?"
"It is a ghost town! Did you even try to make those look alive? They don't even have a pulse!"
>".... is that all?"
"That depends. Is that enough? Because I'll keep going if you don't let us in the mines in the next four words."
>"Take care, because it's not just Moss I'm going to kill for -"
"Oh shut your old face for two seconds, Ambassador Lakasso. Happy belated 160th birthday, want to celebrate by dueling Moss? I know you'd have loved to by now, but you can't even stand up without wobbling when your soul is desperately trying to escape that body, can you?"
>>
No. 976193 ID: 5fc3a0
File 159996935604.png - (40.25KB , 800x800 , 1464.png )
976193

He's silent.

"Before leaving, I checked to make sure that immortality was one of the few ways to get the guaranteed attention of the dragon knights. And it is, so I've set up some people to go running to the emperor's tower if they don't hear from me soon."
>"Enough. Leave. Go into the mines, run your investigations. But know this, you three. If you betray the blackmail and I see so much as a scrap of purple dragon's cloth at my gates, my last word will be the order for my loyal agents to chase down every last person you've ever known. They'll be skinned alive, and my successor will inherit this hall as it's decorated in mutant hide. That goes for all the significant others you have, too, Moss, Daspotta."

Great, another noble that's doing this with me. Maybe I should've just killed him and seen how well I do against several armed guards.

>"Anything else before I change my mind and slaughter all three of you?"
>>
No. 976194 ID: 465a14

Hey, cool, if he's that weak now's a great time to stab him.
>>
No. 976195 ID: b1b4f3

>>976193
Let's go get the information. We can decide whether or not to duel him while we're doing that.
>>
No. 976197 ID: 465a14

We don't need to duel him. His guards are stuck in armor and carrying swords. Just throw Daspotta at him or throw a knife or something. It'd be so easy. Just murder him and run.
>>
No. 976198 ID: 86eb65

"That sounds perfectly reasonable."
>>
No. 976199 ID: 1ed92d

>>976193
"Nope."

And then leave. Swiftly.
>>
No. 976201 ID: e2f5cc

See how the guards react. If they seem nonplussed but still alive, take whats given and bow out. If they seem concerned but holding appearances, start purposefully walking towards Lakasso and go from how willing the guards are when he orders them to halt you. If they seem undead or unnerved by this revelation though, well, then you should give the good ambassador the fate he so desperately fled.
>>
No. 976203 ID: bb78f2

>>976193
Cheese, seriously, all of that was actually in the mines? How in the WORLD did you expect me to convince him to let a mundane commoner such as myself IN there without pressing the blackmail?

No wonder he said I couldn't leave if I went in. It's ridiculous. Had I known, I wouldn't have BOTHERED with any of that rigamaroll. There's no point threatening a lich with physical violence or my station, even if it was more respected.

Hey Gahki, you're kind of all right in a weird way, because now that I have the full context, yeah, no fuckin' wonder you didn't want me in there. I thought that shit was just mines man. The fuck, Cheese, the fuck. You made me into an idiot here.
>>
No. 976207 ID: 695467

Let's not look a gift horse in the mouth and get in there. Holy fuck that was one hell of a blackmail.
>>
No. 976213 ID: bc4729

That... wasn't what i epected at all. I thiought those were just mines... gee this guy is deep in shit. Cheese you got to tell us this things, man.

Tell him that the last guy who threated you like that ended up with a knife in the knee and bleeding and screaming like a bitch. And you are more than welcome to and a third one to the list, because there is one other bastard might get the second place first. That might change tho.
>>
No. 976217 ID: fa2754

>>976193
Cheese wanted to know if you had a lawn wizard.
>>
No. 976220 ID: 63e97e

Stay dispassionate. Cheese may have just been guessing or taking a wild stab in the dark after seeing those slaves outside which means she doesn’t have runners set up. You definitely shouldn’t question her about that while here.

>Anything else?
Well, as long as we’re taking wild stabs in the dark: is anyone else currently blackmailing him over this for something other than money? He intimated that there were three who’d been let go, which stands out given his general “skull pile” policy.

And if any of those are the Necromancers currently warring in Erja Nokol, I can imagine they’d be happy to siphon off his labor for their war efforts and use his hold over the Crows of the Crow Zone to influence the empire in other ways. As they have far less that he can threaten to retaliate against, they could employ the blackmail we just did with ironic impudence.

It’s also entirely possible that he doesn’t actually have a gold mine, but that he’s been fencing melted-down loot from the catacombs, now that I think about it.

In which case implying a connection to Erja Nokol would be... bad, probably. Oof. Whose house of cards are you accidentally threatening to topple here?
>>
No. 976222 ID: 6e9a06

His boss has to at least suspect this. Probably quietly tolerates it, uses it to assure loyalty.
Power games are such a mess.

Should we have a guard go with us? Our safety is his safety.
If it is safe, though, a guard would also have some idea of the layout.
>>
No. 976227 ID: ce39da

"We're good, thanks." And off we go. Now it makes sense why he couldn't afford to indulge such a cheap and "painless" blackmail. Quit while we're ahead.
>>
No. 976231 ID: 2e15a9

I'm kind of curious as to what you think of goings on in Erja Nokol, but I'd just as soon take my leave.
>>
No. 976232 ID: 66d80e

>>976193
Do not attack him, do not say anything to him, and do not say anything else that'll piss him off. Just leave and do what you came here to do.
>>
No. 976234 ID: 36784c

>>976193
Do not try to attack and kill him. There’s a reason he’s still alive despite being so physically frail. He may not be able to fight, but his guards are likely faster and stronger than you. And don’t think you can fight them either, since they have better armor than you. It’s doubtful you’d be able to land a killing blow on them.

Just go before he changes his mind on letting you in.
>>
No. 976238 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160002084477.png - (86.44KB , 1200x800 , 1465.png )
976238

No one is reacting strongly. He said his words, Cheese is letting them lie, and the guards don't have a reaction that I can see.

"Nothing else." I can tell his back is to the wall, and he has the means to do something reckless. In my efforts to stay alive, I'll avoid any inquiries about Erja Nokol, quips about lawn wizards, or anything that isn't turning my back.
>"Gemett will show you to the mines."

He gestures to the kobold who brought us in, which now leads us out. The second Cheese and I are alone again, we're going to have a talk.
>>
No. 976239 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160002085583.png - (362.75KB , 1200x800 , 1466.png )
976239

That may be a while, because Gemett guides us through town to a central building that has no real floor. It's just a pit with a walkway that we travel down, while people with collars carry buckets and bags of rocks up the slope without so much as a single wheel between them.

At the bottom, there are heavy gates that must lead to the mine proper. A few prisoners look like they're waiting to enter, but they stay there while Gemett speaks with various guards to let us in. And there are many, many guards here.

Past the gate is a series of winding tunnels, and the path is somehow worse on the workers. The path isn't paved here, it's a series of rugged rocks heading down a steep slope. And just as I wonder why it's like that, I get my answer in the form of arrow slits in the walls and the holes in the ceiling. This isn't a well designed, efficient cargo route. It's a well designed death hall against possible rebellions trying to escape, and I feel like I'm walking through siegeworks, not a mining shaft.

It opens up into a carved meeting hall. Along the rim of it lie a series of elevators, equipped with teams of kobolds, mostly mountains, who lift and operate the elevators on a series of ropes and pulleys. I notice a lot of prisoners coming off the elevators have iron collars, while the only ones going up the slope have bronze collars.

>"This way." He continues.
>>
No. 976240 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160002101434.png - (179.98KB , 1000x800 , 1467.png )
976240

He leads us to the ring of elevators. There's a small line here to get on, and a team of rope pullers have orders barked to them from someone in the front while bells ring.

>"Take these coins, they will mark you as visitors." says Gemett, handing them to us. "This is as far as I'll be taking you."
"Why don't you come with us?"
>"There is no point. I do not know where your prisoners are, although criminals and similar typically go to the lower floors, so I suggest starting near the bottom. There are many living prisoners and guards down below, so just ask around. When you're ready to come back up, there are two labeled bell wires. Ring the one with the up arrow, and you will be pulled up. Ring the other to go down, and ring both at once to stop. Keep your entire body inside the platform. With that, if you have no further questions, I'll be going back to my post."
>>
No. 976241 ID: 465a14

fuck his ass
>>
No. 976242 ID: dec3df

>>976240
Just be sure that if anyone tries to make sure you never come back up for some reason, that person will suddenly find themselves unable to return up as well.
>>
No. 976243 ID: e2f5cc

Any real chance we'll get jumped by a bunch of slaves? And is there any safer areas other than the obvious in the event they decide now is a great time for a rebellion?
>>
No. 976248 ID: 86eb65

"What do the different collar types signify?"
>>
No. 976249 ID: bb78f2

>>976240
...
Give him some money for a beer or two, for his trouble.
>>
No. 976250 ID: 1ed92d

>>976240
Nod in acknowledgement. These people are not your friends, they are lividly angry with you for threatening their liege. Prepare to head deeper into the mines to find Cheese's contact.
>>
No. 976252 ID: ce39da

Give the nod to Cheese to lead the way; no need to discuss out loud who we're actually here for at any point.
>>
No. 976255 ID: e7848c

>>976240
Let's get this over with.
>>
No. 976256 ID: b1b4f3

>>976240
Why don't they have wheelbarrows or something? That would surely increase production rate.
>>
No. 976259 ID: 8fab7a

Ask that he explain the ranking system here. Something to do with the collars?
>>
No. 976264 ID: 36784c

>>976256
I don't think it's about production rate. I think it's all about making the slaves as miserable as possible. Potentially making them so miserable, they want to take their own lives. Then Lakasso can reanimate their bodies as his undead servants.
>>
No. 976279 ID: bc4729

Then that is that, unless he feels the need to tell us something important. Let Cheese lead the way, make Daspota stay in between you and Cheese. Keep your eyes peel.
>>
No. 976283 ID: c3de58

>>976240
Time to get to work. The three of you need to watch each other's backs, don't let anyone put a collar on you, and keep your coins hidden at all times. You don't necessarily know what they mean; best to stay on the safe side.
>>
No. 976284 ID: c3de58

>>976240
Time to get to work. The three of you need to watch each other's backs, don't let anyone put a collar on you, and keep your coins hidden at all times. You don't necessarily know what they mean; best to stay on the safe side.
>>
No. 976301 ID: 98cbe8

Save complaining to Cheese over lack of information for when you're both outside and away from here again.
>>
No. 976304 ID: b1b4f3

Ask Cheese what she thinks would've happened if you dueled "Sir Gahki". How badly would that have ended for you-- is there any real protection from retaliation?
Actually, Daspotta would know the details of dueling a bit more than Cheese probably, so ask her first.
>>
No. 976335 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160010430904.png - (215.28KB , 1200x800 , 1468.png )
976335

"Are there safe areas where I don't need to watch my back from prisoners?"
>"Our eyes down there say prisoners are currently well behaved. I would not worry over that, but there are guard outposts periodically. Most are infused with live land, too." Oh, good, I don't have to stand on dead ground the whole time.
"What are these different collars about?"
>"Iron collars are allowed up to this level, and no further. Bronze collars are allowed up to the building we came through, and no further. No other collars exist, it is only them, the guards, and the overseers." That'll be all I care to ask about ranks, then.
"Where are the mutants?" asks Cheese.
>"They are spread out. You will have to ask around."
"Alright. Here's something for your trouble." I start to pass him a few copper, but he pushes them back.
>"Your generosity is noted, but I do not take money from visitors. Buy yourself something while you are down there."

I don't bother asking about wheelbarrows; I can assume they're interested in having their death hall more than having their smooth ramps and cargo lifts. He sees I've stopped asking questions, and leaves.

We move in line and get on the platform to ring the bell. I'm wary of the five miners that get on us. This job reminds me too much of guard duty, except that there's no bars between me and them. Yet their body language is ignoring us too well.
>>
No. 976336 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160010431769.png - (82.62KB , 800x800 , 1469.png )
976336

I still shift to a corner so we're not surrounded and flip my backpack around to make sure no pickpockets get any ideas. The platform lurches as the pullers let some slack go, and we start descending.

I'd also like to ask Cheese why in the world she didn't tell me these mines were what they were. There's other questions for her that pile up, but asking what my chances were of killing Sir Gahki if I tried seems like an overall poor decision in front of all these prisoners.

"Are you alright, Daspotta?" Cheese asks.
>"I'm okay. Sights like this aren't common, in the palace."

At first I think she meant the mines, but I didn't even look at the side passages. I shouldn't be that surprised about the public punishments. The border between the turtle's hideaway and the barbarian lands had similar displays.

I turn my gaze back down, and wait for us to get low. The sounds of pickaxes, yelling, and general activity starts going through the shaft. It sounds like noises from several different direction, all echoed multiple times before coming together to come up this shaft. I suspect it sounds like that because that's exactly what it is.

I should ask these miners riding with us about going to the lower levels, but they look like they've been ignoring us with all their might. Cheese gets my attention first anyway.
>>
No. 976337 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160010433705.png - (249.84KB , 800x800 , 1470.png )
976337

"Hey, Moss, do y-"
>>
No. 976338 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160010435188.png - (457.78KB , 800x800 , 1471.png )
976338

THUNK
>>
No. 976339 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160010440602.png - (180.70KB , 800x1200 , 1472.png )
976339

Son of a bastard is trying to kill us!
>>
No. 976340 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160010442978.png - (178.54KB , 800x1200 , 1473.png )
976340

AAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
"Cheese!"
>>
No. 976343 ID: 465a14

Well unless you suddenly and immediately awaken to being a wizard there's not much you can do. Make sure you're secure and pull Daspotta up. Try to trust in Cheese's enormous ass to cushion her or something, I guess.
>>
No. 976344 ID: dbe94c

One hand, grab Daspotta. Other hand, stop your sword from sliding out. Legs, hold on for dear life!
>>
No. 976346 ID: 98cbe8

I hope Cheese's squishiness can save her, because I don't think there's anything you can do. Hold on, Moss! If anything falls out of your pack, or your sword out of your scabbard - uh, I'd say let it, but when your sword falls out can you at least try twist your hips to send it towards the side of the shaft instead of dropping straight down? Or tell Daspotta - grab her with your other hand, by the way! - to watch out for it, and to try knock it to the side with her tail as it falls?

Once things, uh, calm down... those two ropes on your side should dangle down, you could see if Daspotta can reach one to help spread the weight.

Speaking of those ropes - the two cut ends that dropped that side of the elevator were right above you. That doesn't fit! If this was Ghaki, he would have dropped you from above, or something better than that. I think whoever did this was closer to hand. Maybe someone in the prisoners or guards, wanting whatever trouble you set up for Ghaki to be set off?
>>
No. 976347 ID: 98cbe8

Oh no, extra thought: if this is a prisoner conspiracy, someone at the bottom of the shaft could be waiting to finish Cheese off.
>>
No. 976349 ID: 77049a

>>976340
Hold tight, and brace yourself in case Cheese is somehow able to grab Despotta's tail. Now grab your sword before it falls out and cuts someone, then try and swing yourself and whoever else is hanging on towards the nearest tunnel along the shaft!
Oh please don't let Cheese die from this. She doesn't deserve it. Here's hoping that her cave kobold genes do something to help her.
>>
No. 976350 ID: 465a14

>>976343
Actually yell at Cheese to try to land on something soft. Her ass, another kobold, whatever.
>>
No. 976351 ID: 70d854

>>976340
nononono not good.

Okay, so in order of importance:
1) Do not let your sword fall. You are now trapped underground in a necromancer's dungeon/torture chamber/pit of despair and it is the only thing that will keep you alive.
2) Try to help Des get a grip. She's a mountain, she's heavy, she will weight you down. Keeping her alive is important, but she is sworn to die for you if necessary. Tough call, but the situation is dire. Hell, she may survive the fall, but best not to think about any of that for now.
3) Look around. Once you (and hopefully Des) have a better grasp of your immediate surroundings, you can start figuring out a way up or down. You'll need to decide if it's worth trying to ascend towards whomever cut the line, or down where there may be no other way back up.
4a) If you choose up, prepare yourself for a fight. Gahki does not survive this day.
4b) If you go down, find Cheese. She'll likely be hurt, so follow the telltale signs of that or find the mutants. If she's dead, or dies, you likely will too.
>>
No. 976352 ID: 2e15a9

Hang on to Daspotta and the railing, tuck your head so you don't crack your skull open getting swung into a stone wall. Notice your sword is slipping and try to catch it.
Unfortunately, I can't think of anything you can say or do to catch cheese. Even if you did something dangerous like untucking your legs but keeping your feet crossed, simultaneously yelling for Daspotta to lower her tail for Cheese to hold onto- I don't think that could happen fast enough to be of help, she's already out of reach.
Once the ride stops, Daspotta can climb up you, you can pass her some equipment that's weighing you down, then find your own footing. Then try to figure out a way to one of those side passages.
>>
No. 976353 ID: 631238

Oh great. Maybe this guy believes his magic will be able to fake a live Cheese, or at least get what he requires out of her corpse, to halt the threat of exposure. Either way, "Gahki" has some idea of how this will keep himself alive.

Our objectives have shifted.
Idea 1: Stealth out
Seek a secret way out, get a very good disguise so you're able to walk out, or dig out.
Idea 2: Hole up
Keep Cheese alive, or at least keep her corpse out of the claws of the wizards here. Keep a low profile. Wait for her people to get the word out about "Gahki".
Idea 3: Fight out
Start a revolt. Lead the people here to victory. (I dislike this, odds of victory appear low, but hey).

If we get what we arrived here to get as well, great.


>Buy yourself something while you are down there.
They have shops? Well.
>>
No. 976356 ID: ce39da

"Grab something!" Better to yell something useful in the heat of the moment before her chance is gone. It doesn't even have to be Daspotta's tail, or even particularly close to you - just snap her out of the panic.
>>
No. 976357 ID: bc4729

>>976351
I agree, this is the best way i see of getting out of this. In order to help Daspotta out you should swing her until she gets enough momentum to grab on the platform.

>>976356
Yes this might also help Cheese somehow as well. That is all you can do for her right know.
>>
No. 976358 ID: 86eb65

Swing Des and your bag with one hand to try and get her so she can grip the wall.

Use your other hand to make sure your sword does not go anywhere.

Cheese we probably can't help right now.
>>
No. 976360 ID: 1ed92d

>>976340
Strictly speaking, this is actually a flaw in elevator design, as Elijah Otis has not been born in this world.

....There is literally nothing you can do unless you have magic. Yell at Cheese to use their tail. Maybe it's thick enough to act as a cushion.
>>
No. 976363 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160011578380.png - (41.05KB , 800x800 , 1474.png )
976363

"Grab something! Or fall on your tail!" Cheese is out of sight. I can't help her. "Daspotta, can you... ugh, I've got a decent grip on you." I feel my sword slipping out, and push it back in. The damn thing should have a strap over the hilt, and - my damn bag's letting stuff fall out! It's transferring to loop around Daspotta's arm instead of mine, so I won't lose the whole thing at least.

"Daspotta, can you climb up?" I ask. The platform is more or less still, now.
>"I don't - I'm afraid anything I grab on you that I can will rip off!"
"Fine, I'm going to swing you to the side, can you grab onto that post?"
>"Y-yes, I'll try!"

I start swinging her left and right. She's heavy and her grip is tough, but I can keep it.

>"What am I supposed to do when I grab?!" She's reaching up to the center post, but we need a couple more swings.
"I don't know, there's some side passages down there, we just have to figure out a way to get down th - "
>>
No. 976364 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160011583485.png - (28.75KB , 800x800 , 1475.png )
976364

CRACK

>"What was that?!"

Whatever's keeping this platform up is slipping. I can feel wobbling. We need to get off this deathtrap now.
>>
No. 976365 ID: 465a14

>>976364
Hey, don't worry. No matter what happens you won't be on that deathtrap for much longer. Swing Daspotta faster, I suppose, if she can grab something and she has a tough grip.
>>
No. 976366 ID: 98cbe8

The motion is putting more pressure on it. The whole platform is caught on a rock jutting from the wall. Ask Daspotta if the wall is close enough and rough enough for her to grab onto it. It definitely looks like it?
>>
No. 976368 ID: 77049a

>>976364
Keep your momentum! I remember seeing a side passage nearby, so tell Daspotta you are now trying to swing her and yourself towards it, and she needs to do her best to keep her grip on you so you both don't fall down the shaft.
Swing towards the hole, act as though your are throwing Daspotta but don't let go, then untangle your legs and let the momentum carry you away from the death trap onto more solid ground.
>>
No. 976369 ID: ca7a53

Sheesh. Uh, if there's a rock that juts out close to your arms, maybe get the bag, your belt, or both looped over it? Grab tight!
>>
No. 976370 ID: bb78f2

Yeah she should be close enough to the rock face. I imagine being a mountain kobold her grip strength should be substantially better than yours, even enough to support you on her back. I bet her type of kobold is used to rock climbing with heavy shit on their back all the time, she just has to rely on her instincts.
>>
No. 976371 ID: 2e15a9

What happened to the ropes on the corners of the platform? Is there even anywhere else to go?
Okay, best hope is, that since that lantern hasn't fallen below you, the main cable is still holding and it's two of the four platform's ropes that failed. If that's the case, the platform will slip but still remain suspended by the main cable. That's the part you want to get to, and quick.
>>
No. 976372 ID: 86eb65

"Daspotta I only have two or three swings left at most. When you are as far as you can get to landing in a side tunnel let go of my hand and dive for it or we are both hitting the bottom."

Do your best to throw her into a side tunnel or a outcropping before the platform breaks from all your wiggling.
>>
No. 976373 ID: 8fab7a

Shit, hope all that tail pudge cushions Cheese's fall.

>>976364
Dark side passage, to your left, same direction as you were swinging her, bit further down. Aim Daspotta for that, tell her to hold on to you with one hand and grab for the hole with the other, and ready yourself to loosen your legs. Push off as she hits the end of the swing's arc and then hope you both make it.
>>
No. 976375 ID: b1b4f3

>>976364
You're gonna need to transfer to the wall and start climbing down.
>>
No. 976381 ID: a9af05

>>976363
>Cheese
I sure hope she's ok.

I remember in a previous thread there was a vote on what Cheese's mutant ability was, but I don't remember what won the vote. It was tied between "puffing up like a puffer fish" and "shooting blood from her eyes". I think the "puffer fish" won, which would mean that Cheese will be able to have a safe landing here. But if I'm wrong, then I'm very worried about Cheese right now.

>What do?
Swing for the wall!
>>
No. 976382 ID: e2f5cc

>>976370
This seems like the safest bet.
>>
No. 976383 ID: 7dbf0e

>>976382
I’d agree if it weren’t for the fact she’s currently in motion and an elevator’s about to fall on anyone below it. We’re pretty committed to the swing thing, I think.
>>
No. 976402 ID: bc4729

Swing her to the hole. Try to throw her first then yourself.
>>
No. 976433 ID: a4fca1

>>976381
She shoots blood from her eyes, no ability to puff-up if I recall.

Swing her one more time and have her grab whatever she can, just focus on getting weight off whatever’s breaking.
>>
No. 976446 ID: 6c227a

Now means now. Abort trying to grab on to anything here. Instead, swing toward the next open passage below you and fall to that. Hold on to eachother, you'll need the extra pendulum weight to get any appreciable horizontal momentum, and inevitably one of you will have to pull the other in.
>>
No. 976504 ID: a9af05

>>976433
In that case, I'm very worried about Cheese now that I know her ability can't give her a safe landing!
>>
No. 976590 ID: 6c122f

Technically, shooting *enough* blood towards the bottom could slow her down. Action, reaction, and so on...

However, I doubt she can shoot enough. And also, the blood loss would probably be fatal, too.
>>
No. 976746 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160055771077.png - (55.83KB , 1200x800 , 1476.png )
976746

Wasn't there rope dangling off these corners? It's not there now, not like I would've trusted it to hold Daspotta's weight when it was attached to the far end of a half rotten post!

"The walls, Daspotta, they're rough! We need to get on those!"
>"I don't - Moss I can't do that! My claws don't have good grip-"
"Nevermind then!"

Damnit, I'm sure she has the physique to do it, but if that's her mindset, it's no good!

"I'm letting go, we're going to swing to that platform down there!"
>"What?"

I'm already on the last swing and I don't have time to explain, so I let go.
>>
No. 976747 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160055775382.png - (38.13KB , 800x800 , 1477.png )
976747

Daspotta starts swinging towards it, but the momentum shifts our weight and we flip around. I'm headed towards the side passage feet first, but at least I'm headed to it!

I brace for impact.

"Guhff!" This damned floor just knocked the wind out of me!
>>
No. 976748 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160055780290.png - (45.28KB , 800x800 , 1478.png )
976748

I do my best to clutch the ground with my free hand and feet so we don't just bounce straight back down.

I've never been this happy to intentionally fall on the ground, and I'm lucky it was this short of a fall. I'm still going to feel like my body has a ground shaped imprint for weeks.

"Daspotta. Grab my hand."
...
"Daspotta!" All that's coming out are gasps. "You need to grab my hand, I can't hold on! Climb!"
>"I-I'm sorry, I'm scared!"
"This is my first official order for you, Daspotta! Climb up, you heavy girl!"

It's the weakest sounding order I've ever given, but she starts.
>>
No. 976749 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160055782239.png - (76.08KB , 1000x800 , 1479.png )
976749

We both make it up, somehow.

>"Sorry, sir, that - I was scared. I couldn't move, I looked down. How did you do that? I mean, to just throw us off like that, it must've taken bravery I could never have."
"It's not bravery."
>"Then how - "

The platform makes a great crack and a heave. Then what follows is a deafening series of crashes as the echoes overlap on each other while the platform bangs and scrapes its way down the shaft.
>>
No. 976750 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160055801522.png - (37.02KB , 800x800 , 1480.png )
976750

"Because that was scarier." I don't know if she hears me when I'm gasping out the words, or if she's even noticed.

I need to catch my breath, but that gives me a good excuse to think for a moment.

The lantern was still attached, but the rope leading up to the top floor had fallen below. But if we were let go, or the rope was cut from higher up, how did some of those ropes tied to the corner get undone? I didn't see one of them at all, like it went missing.

Maybe it doesn't matter. Regardless of who dropped us, I seriously doubt it was an accident. I need to think of what's next. Where to go. I can't just go back up and walk out; not when I'm sure Gahki will have his guards just stab us. I think. I don't know. I want to get Cheese, but if Gahki gave the order, I'm sure he's sent guards to the bottom to collect corpses.

Can I hide? Not for long, the ground is dead.

Oh, fuck, the ground is dead. I need to find a mana infused patch. A sanctuary. There has to be one.
>>
No. 976751 ID: 465a14

Get started on sensing one, then. Or at least walk away from the murder zone.
>>
No. 976753 ID: 470289

Check what you have left in your bag. If you can get down quick maybe you can ambush the corpse collectors.
>>
No. 976754 ID: 86eb65

So we are looking at a few options for what happened.

1. Someone wants to implicate Lord Gahki in your death to pull own heat from the empire on to him.

2. Lord Gahki figures that Cheese is bluffing about having outside info.

3. Lord Gahki has moved on from just keeping himself alive and is now in full blown necromancer mode and is about to rebel from the empire.


As for now get up and get a inventory of what you still both have. Then look for signs of prisoner activity. They live down here so they know where the mana imbued zones are. You are going to have to befriend some and kill the rest if they so much as give you lip.

Tell Daspatta that this is one of those do or die situations and to not let her guard up.
>>
No. 976756 ID: b1b4f3

Catch your breath, see where you are. Try to continue down this passage and find Cheese.
As for what happened to the rope, well you're dealing with a necromancer so magic is probably involved somehow.
>>
No. 976762 ID: 14c138

Well, you need to do two.. no three things:
1) Not dying.
2) Find this mana infused patch.
3) Find Cheese.
All this are the things that you need to focus and acomplish.

And if you are feeling noble: 4) Keep Daspotta in one piece. As a bonus.
She seems to move out duty, not common sense. So others seem to work better on her, use that on your advantage. Perhaps i am mistaken, but we'll figure that out on the way.
>>
No. 976768 ID: f8fa51

>>976754
You missed possibility 4: Lord Ghaki thinks he can track down Cheese's messengers before they can deliver the blackmail material. How he thinks he can do that, I don't know.

If it's anything but option 1, however, I honestly don't see how you can make it out of this alive. If Lord Ghaki has given orders to simply kill you, you'll have to fight your way out of a fortress... unless you think you can disguise yourself as a guard while they're looking for you specifically?
>>
No. 976772 ID: 15a025

Yeah this isn't good. While we think about who's out to get us here, let's try and source some mana or something.
>>
No. 976774 ID: ffa653

Ok, Moss, you need to find Cheese and make sure she's all right. You might, MIGHT get out of here alive without her, but your long-term prospects are nothing. First, Ghaki has no reason not to kill you if he thinks Cheese's blackmail is going to go off anyway. Second, without the elevator you have no idea how to get out of here, you could get lost, and I'd bet Cheese is a lot better at finding her way around in a cave and/or finding the few people down here that might tell you where to go than you are. Third, your chances of surviving being Krix's make-nobles-mad man are basically nothing without her advice. Cheese is a tough girl, she knows how to take some abuse, and the ability to squish her way into tight spaces will also make her better at absorbing a fall. There's a good chance she's still alive, and if she is it's a very very good chance she needs your help.

Extra bonus to trying to find Cheese right now: it means going down. Think about it. This is a mine. The newer work is further down. The newer work is the work with the most people on it, and the place where that's happening is where a mage would invest the time to create some shelter. Going down gets you to see if Cheese is still alive AND gets you closer to shelter. And it's the one place you know there isn't anyone who was in on this right now, because if they knew they'd have kept away from the bottom of the elevator shaft.

You gotta climb down, Moss.
>>
No. 976794 ID: 8fab7a

Get up, slowly, check your body for broken bones, twisted or bruised muscles. You have your sword, at least, which will be useful if it comes to fighting. What else is left in your bag? Any light options? If not, you'll have to feel your way around. Also with your feet, for any sudden drops. This passage has to lead somewhere.

Don't think we'll want to wait for the next elevator. In fact, stay alert. Keep your sword loose in its scabbard, despite almost losing it earlier that way.

>>976768
Moss is not dead by any means yet. There's the Crows down there and they have to have their own ways out and around - and probably have their own passages to use, too. Lord Gahki also didn't necessarily have time to send anyone ahead, we pretty much went straight to the mine. Our survival may not be reported back for, oh... however long it takes for an elevator downstairs to report back up that a buncha slaves (and/or a Cheese) died in an elevator crash - and there being no mention of a dead mountain kobold and field marshal. Moss should have a little bit of grace time before there's a manhunt on.

Then again... that thought could be wrong, as the threat may already be down here with us.

There was the rope disappearing weirdness. And since the kill was attempted to credibly look like an accident, the sabotage may have included one or more of the slaves taking the lift with us to make sure nothing like what just happened would happen (i.e. survivors making it). Hm... I think we saw everyone definitely fall except the one with the darkest brown fur? Or perhaps one or more of the slaves we had with us were undead slaves and Gahki did something to get 'em to act up? Mhm. Cheese, at least, might've sensed that.

Doesn't preclude a living assassin, though. Before you leave, you could look back up the shaft to see if there's anyone still clinging to the walls, or someone having used rope to rescue themselves. Light levels permitting.

>Lord Gahki behind attempted murder
There's also option #5 - a double agent wanting to drive a wedge between Gahki and Krix / the Empire. Like... if Gahki really wanted Cheese and Moss dead, he did have less sneaky options? Then again, Krix could reasonably demand back the body of his field marshal and then do a blood wizard ritual to ask questions to the ghost like 'Who/what killed you?' - and a necromancer would definitely be wary of that scenario.

But, ugh, thinking like this is for Cheese. If she survived. Finding out if she did is a priority to go with getting out of the deadlands. If you can't or she didn't, focus should shift to contacting the Crows as they're our only real option of getting the fuck out of here.
>>
No. 976797 ID: bb78f2

It's too early to make assumptions of who did anything. I say we try our best to find a way down to get to Cheese and see if she's alive enough to require help and simply think of what caused this earlier.

I believe in coincidences enough to know that they're both extremely rare, but we need to treat the elevator fall as a coincidence for now, other than maybe looking out for guards near where the elevator fell.
>>
No. 976810 ID: 7c833d

>>976353
>>
No. 976821 ID: 1ed92d

>>976750
Well, you need to crawl along this tunnel/ledge to figure out how to get out of here.

Kill guards and toss their weapons to slaves when you can.
>>
No. 976850 ID: 3347f3

>>976750
Catch your breath and start sensing. You have been on dead ground before, so this isn't new, and you survived that too.
Take stock of your surroundings and abilities. Can you smell or hear anything nearby that isn't rock? Can Daspotta see better underground than you?
Now that you have taken a moment, you should head towards the nearest safe spot for a breather before heading down to the bottom of the shaft. While it would be great to see if Cheese is alive, the priorities of survival means looking for a way out. If there are people down there checking if the drop worked, then whatever they used to get down can be used by you as a way up as well as getting whatever you can off their soon-to-be warm corpses.
If you are able to find any crows, be careful. They took away support from Fen for working against a necromancer, and you are currently in a mine ruled over by a false immortal and apparently staffed by the dead. If the crows are connected to the dead in the Mausoleum, they could be connected with the dead in this mine.
You are behind enemy lines, and your best chances for you and your allies are to not be seen and make sure anyone who does see you is never able to tell.
>>
No. 976856 ID: ce39da

> THUNK
I've gone over a recollection of the accident and came to a conclusion: The 'accident' started down at the lift, not at the top station. The main rope only dropped after the initial crash; it's actually quite reasonable for the lift-workers to drop their load if the weight suddenly jerked as it slammed into something. Therefore, the sabotage was in the corner-ropes, not the main one.

There are several possibilities:
> A projectile. (Extremely Unlikely)
- It's possible that someone shot out the connecting corner ropes. This is unlikely, however, as shooting through one rope would make an arrow's trajectory too unstable to reliably sever a second one.
> Loose rope. (Improbable)
- An agent made the ropes intentionally loose to cause an accident. Timing it so that it happened while we were riding seems difficult, however, though there is the possibility of this being a legitimate accident.
> A zombie undid it. (Extremely Unlikely)
- Gahki could have had a zombie puppet on the lift (or jumped on from a side chamber) undo the rope themselves. There's no explanation yet as to why no one noticed them climbing up (or jumping down).
> A crow undid it. (Semi-Plausible)
- A kobold working on the rope without anyone noticing? Unlikely. A little bird? That is a theory that can hold water. Don't let your distrust of Gahki distract you from the fact that there's more than one distinct faction operating out of these mines. This is also the only theory that accounts for the potentially life-saving rope disappearing while you caught the rail with your feet - the only other explanation for that is that someone grabbed it as they fell, and it pulled undone.

At this point, we can determine just four even remotely plausible culprits in this case:
> Lord "Gahki" can't let you leave.
> The crows can't let you confront them.
> The mutants can't let you trace anything to them. (Not the first time they went behind each other's backs.)
> It was an accident; no-one is guilty.

> What Do
Obviously, find a sanctuary. Ask Daspotta to help sense it. If you aren't sure, prioritize going down (towards Cheese).
>>
No. 976949 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160080330909.png - (131.79KB , 800x800 , 1481.png )
976949

Daspotta starts getting up, and I follow just so I'm not writhing on the ground alone.

I've never seen someone look at me by looking at the ground so well. She's made to wait until I catch my breath.

"Can you sense mana?"
>"Um... no, I'm sorry, I never had the knack. Why?"
"I need a sanctuary."
>"A sanctuary, sir?"
"A patch of infused land in the middle of this dead ground. I can sense if a high magic object is around, but that's it. Not what it is or where exactly it is other than around, so we can't rely on that. We need to move."
>"Where are - oh, no, Cheese! Where is she?"
"She fell, Daspotta. We're going to check in on her. If there's anyone who can survive a fall like that, it's her squishy butt."
>"Would you like me to report the accident to Sir Gahki?"
"You are.... Daspotta, that might have been an accident, but we're not betting on it."
>"You think, um, Sir Gahki...?"
"Dropped us, yes. Where is your bag, Daspotta? Didn't you have one?"
>"I'm sorry. I left it with the wagon."
>>
No. 976950 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160080331840.png - (156.99KB , 800x800 , 1482.png )
976950

I take inventory of what's still in my bag. It's pitch black now, and our eyes are are only going to stay bright for a small handful of minutes.

- Flint and tinder.
- Oil to keep rust off my blade, but if I bet I could use it to fuel an oil lamp if I had one.
- A candle.
- Some food. Another day's worth of it, if it's between both me and Daspotta.
- Cloth.
- 20 feet of rope.
- A small knife that Cheese let me have.
- 2 silver, 7 copper.

Then, on my person, I still have my sword, badge, and visitors coin, the latter of which I will keep even if it may not be as useful as I thought. Daspotta mentions she hers, as well, in an inline pocket.

I use the flint and tinder to light the candle so we can get moving.
>>
No. 976951 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160080334348.png - (17.83KB , 800x800 , 1483.png )
976951

It's a long trek down when we aren't using the elevator.

>"Are you okay, sir?" Daspotta asks.
"Is it just me, or is it getting hotter the farther down we go?"
>"It is definitely hotter, sir, - Ah! You're hurt, I'm sorry, I never noticed. Let me take care of that."
"We don't have time to tend to scrapes." I must have gotten hit by something when the platform flipped to its side, but I didn't notice until after I landed.

We descend and the temperature continues to ascend to match. The bright side is that the ventilation works. From what I've heard about mines, the air can turn so stale it's fatal, but it's only the aches from the fall and the increasing heat that gets to me.

I still hear activity, but one rhythmic set of strike can be picked out from up ahead.
>>
No. 976952 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160080335558.png - (91.96KB , 800x800 , 1484.png )
976952

The only passage that splits off is a ways behind us, so I cover the candle's light as best as I can to hide our approach.

There's a lone woman hammering rocks.
>>
No. 976953 ID: 465a14

She clearly has the means to survive here. She's also armed. And she's obviously a prisoner hammering rocks, so she must be lonely by now. Seduce her and win your way into her heart!
>>
No. 976954 ID: e2f5cc

Get a bit closer until you're sure you could dome with a rock if she runs, pick up a rock to dome her with if she runs, then announce yourself.
>>
No. 976955 ID: 77abda

Hmm. so you can't precisely tell where is the sanctuary. Might as well ask her, they need to go there from time to time, right?. Or you could just... keep walking, keeping an eye on your back but ignoring her.
>>
No. 976956 ID: b1b4f3

>>976952
You should probably treat everyone down here as if they could try to kill you at any second.
Approach with your sword out, and tell her to drop the hammer. Once she's disarmed, ask for directions to the nearest sanctuary, a general layout of the tunnels (we need a map) and information on where the guards are.
From the layout of the tunnels you should be able to get an idea of how to get to the bottom of the elevator shaft to check for Cheese.
>>
No. 976957 ID: b970b2

It seems odd that she's down here by herself with no one watching, what is she doing? We need information, but we also look like a guard, so I worry there may be hostility because of it.

If we're to announce our presence we're should do it from a distance, we have a sword and thus out-range her if things turn hostile. We need to know a direction to a sanctuary, where the bottom of the lift shaft is, and the layout of the place. We've- got food we can bribe her with, but that's limited. We've also got threats of violence.

I think we ought to call out to get from a safe distance, but we can't really undo that if it turns bad.
>>
No. 976958 ID: 86eb65

Keep your sword ready and approach. Remember that the promise of freedom and staging a possible prisoner revolt exists. If they don't hate you enough to not even consider it.
>>
No. 976960 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160081112142.png - (163.48KB , 800x800 , 1485.png )
976960

I motion for Daspotta to stay while I sneak up on the girl. I hope for everyone's sake, she doesn't run when I call out. I get a small distance from her, and I notice a wheelbarrow has been mostly filled with crushed rocks. I get my hand on my sword and speak.

"Drop your hammer."

She jumps, and spins around.

>"What the - " She looks me over. "Huh? What's wrong?"
"Drop your hammer." Once I repeat myself, she drops it like I set it ablaze. "What are you doing?"
>"I was crushing stones, sir." She's alive at least, and thinks I'm a guard. I'll continue the deception, however inconsiderate.
"Why?"
>"I work best alone, sir, and crushing rocks can be done anywhere."
"I mean, what good are crushed rocks?"
>"The overseers say they're useful in roads and rivers, and they pay me in food for them."

I recognize this behavior. She's trying to be brief and precise, yet polite and attentive. It's a survival tactic among those whos lives can be stopped by a single guard's bad mood. She doesn't have the freedom to be hostile, but she's not a slave that's had her will to live beaten out of her. When I look her over, I find her healthier and better fed than I honestly expected, although it smells like baths are still rare.

"I don't see anyone else around. This is so you can be alone?"
>"That's right, sir."
"Where do you go to recover your mana?"
>"Outpost Fuschia."
"Where is that?"
>"If you take the main passenger shaft down, you'll see signs a few exits above the bottom. It's a huge outpost, you can't miss it."
"Passenger shaft?"
>"You're not far. It's the same one you must have first taken down to get into the mines. If you head up that way and go straight, you'll reach a lift." She gestures to the way I just came from.
"And if I go down on foot?"
>"It's that way." She gestures to the other side of the room. "But that's a much longer path, and easy to lose yourself in."
>>
No. 976961 ID: 7095d8

>>976952
You say it's a lone woman, but are you sure it's a LIVING lone woman? Can you see if they're breathing? Are the movements too exact, like there's no thought behind them?
And which way are the rocks being taken? Some kind of trail or cart path?
>>
No. 976962 ID: 7095d8

>>976960
There isn't much of a way to ask for directions without sounding suspicious. Though I'm also suspicious of her. Ask if she heard anything like a crash recently. If she's really a worker, you can say something broke at the lift and you need to get to the safe spot to figure things out and thus need directions for the long way. No need to say it was on purpose, but if she tries to follow, make her walk in front.
>>
No. 976963 ID: e2f5cc

First, check to see if she's undead. If she seems alive, tell her to lead you to outpost Fuschia and that you'll feed her upon your safe arrival.
>>
No. 976966 ID: b1b4f3

>>976960
Seems legit. Ask her for more detailed directions to the outpost since I don't think you have the authority to take her as a guide. Actually, wouldn't Daspotta know if you do? Or how things would go if you pressed the issue and forced her to be a guide instead of working?
You don't have any easy way to mark a path on stone walls to allow easy backtracking in case you get lost, but you have a candle, so you can drip hot wax to create improvised markings. You could also try arranging stones.

Do not give her any coinage, that won't work as a bribe anyway considering how this place works.
>>
No. 976967 ID: 29d9c3

"Lead me down the passage if you please. The lift is having issues and I don't have time to wait for them to get things running again."
>>
No. 976968 ID: 77abda

Her eyes... I haven't seen any kobold with pink eyes. Ask her more about this place, has she seen anything strange around here? Something that doesn't have to do with mining? Might as well gather information that could be useful later.

Also ask her her name.
>>
No. 976969 ID: b8e56c

You know, this all could have been a really, really misfortunate coincidental accident. It's not likely at all, but keep it in mind as possible. Or, perhaps, as something it might be advantageous to pretend you're willing to think.

Actually? Tell her about the elevator crash and see how she reacts. It might tell you whether coincidental elevator failure is at all likely. This place doesn't seem like it values workplace safety very much. Oh, and ask her for more detailed directions. Maybe telling her will even change her plans enough to send her off from her work and you can follow her.
>>
No. 976970 ID: 2e15a9

Hmm, and I suppose you'd be the one to lead me there?
>>
No. 976971 ID: bb78f2

>>976960
Well unfortunately, the lift has collapsed. An accident has claimed the lives of a few miners. If you were intending to use it yourself, I'm afraid you're going to have to wait until its repaired.

Given that you yourself are now going to have to take the long way, I don't suppose you could take your break now and perhaps lead us through these tunnels? I don't know how long your shift is, but we need to survey the accident site for survivors after replenishing our mana as soon as possible.

We have 20 feet of rope if that actually gives us some alternative options you can think of.
>>
No. 976972 ID: bb78f2

>>976960
wait a minute, she's not wearing anything. There's no way these caves are insulate enough to keep her warm, even with the fur, right? Otherwise, you'd be uncomfortably hot with your gear since you're also a field kobold.

Are nude slaves/miners common in these parts?
>>
No. 976973 ID: b1b4f3

>>976972
Well, it's warmer down here.
...I hope the mask isn't necessary... well, nobody else was wearing one, so it's probably because she's crushing rocks and doesn't want to inhale any rock dust.
>>
No. 976974 ID: 7095d8

>>976972
It's been stated that it's been getting hotter as they've gone deeper. Considering the poor supplies given to the living slaves, I'd doubt any cloth would have survived or even kept around for long.
>>
No. 976975 ID: eecfbe

Tough to make a cover story that has Daspotta as part of it.
Maybe Daspotta's a rookie guard? We have to get her to the outpost to replace a lost sword?

Make yourselves some aliases. I suggest rookie for Daspotta, sarge for Moss.
Ask how much the mask helps. We may have to get a mask ourselves.

>>976971
>break
Slaves get breaks? Yeah right.
>>
No. 976976 ID: 1ebd91

Tough to make a cover story that has Daspotta as part of it.
Maybe Daspotta's a rookie guard? We have to get her to the outpost to replace a lost sword?

Make yourselves some aliases. I suggest rookie for Daspotta, sarge for Moss.
Ask how much the mask helps. We may have to get a mask ourselves.

>>976971
>break
Slaves get breaks? Yeah right.
>>
No. 976977 ID: e7848c

>>976968
All kobold eyes go dark and pink when they start running out of absorbed sunlight. She's been down here for a while.
>>
No. 976979 ID: 77abda

>>976977
Ouch, that can't be good for your health. Poor bastards.
>>
No. 976982 ID: 7095d8

>>976977
They do reabsorb light from fire and start to glow again. That's what happened with Fen.
So if her really eyes aren't glowing despite being close to a candle, that could be taken as her being undead. Are her eyes not glowing, or is it just how it was drawn?
>>
No. 976986 ID: b970b2

Let's not be too chummy, I think, if she thinks you're a guard. Keep some professional distance. Ask for clarification on the by foot path, inform her that the lift the way you came back from is out, and give a simple thanks.
>>
No. 976997 ID: 53560f

Tell her the passenger shaft is no longer functional and ask her to lead you to outpost fuchsia on foot.
Since it’s possible the only route out of the mine just got cut, offer her some spare food from your share as payment if you want to try ingratiating yourself with the slaves. Might pay off depending on how the situation evolves.
>>
No. 976999 ID: 1ed92d

>>976960
Inform her that the main lift has collapsed and that there are a lot of casualties.
>>
No. 977027 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160090528422.png - (132.66KB , 800x800 , 1486.png )
977027

"Did you hear a crash a short while ago?"
>"I did, but I couldn't tell where it came from."
"It was the passenger shaft. Do crashes happen often?"
>"Rarely on the main shafts like that."
"It happened, so it's not operating now. What's your name?"
>"Nillin."
"Here's an odd question. Are you alive?"
>"Yes. The dead don't speak." Her eyes are dim, but so is the light. Mine will probably turn to a faint orange soon enough.
"Can you take me to Outpost Fuschia?"
>"Yes." She has the slightest hesitation to that, and I notice she glanced at her wheelbarrow.
"Where were you bringing these rocks?"
>"There's a small camp we'll be passing through. It has no mana sanctuary, but it does have a gathering station." She realizes she needs to explain things to me like 'gathering station', and continues. "Where I sell my rocks." It's me asking questions like these that prevent me from acting like I'm a guard training Daspotta.
"That is where you stay?"
>"Until I need a sanctuary, yes."
"That's fine. If it's on the way and it won't slow us down, you can bring your wheelbarrow."
>"Thank you, sir. It's all downhill, so it won't."

She leads us down, and I wave at Daspotta to follow. Nillin asks nothing.

We move forward, and she leads with her own torch that she stuck in the front of her wheelbarrow. I flick some wax on some corners to tell where I've been in case I need to come back here for some reason. She was right about this route. The passages start breaking off into thin intersecting webs that are easy to get lost in. I would not have even attempted going this way without a guide.
>>
No. 977028 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160090533315.png - (150.55KB , 800x800 , 1487.png )
977028

Nillin must have questions of her own, but she hasn't asked a single thing.

"Is that mask for the rock dust?"
>"Yes."

We enter a clearing, and I see the camp she mentioned. I don't see any obvious guards, and I look behind myself to make sure Daspotta is still there.

>"Here's the camp. You can see the road goes through it, and on the other side there is the main tunnel to Outpost Fuschia. It's easy to follow, so if it's all the same to you, sir, I don't think you need me to tag along."
"Did I cause any trouble for you?" I regret asking it, because I suspect down here, this is nothing but a trap question that dares them to answer with anything except 'not at all'.
>"No. I have enough rocks to get a meal tonight."
>>
No. 977029 ID: e2f5cc

>>977028
"For tomorrow, you mean." Then hand her a meal's ration.
>>
No. 977030 ID: b1b4f3

>>977028
She said no, believe her and don't offer any compensation.
Let's go into camp, look around a little. I wonder if there's a shop?
>>
No. 977031 ID: 5cb1b2

>>977029
that will probably be something of a kings ransom but oh well
>>
No. 977032 ID: 465a14

She probably knows something more- see if you can charm anything out of her. Actually come to think of it the power disparity would make it creepy, just go along after carefully checking Fuschia Tunnel or whatever the name was for traps or instability.
>>
No. 977034 ID: 86eb65

"Thank you for the assitance."

No handing out rations yet. It's very noticable and our supplies are limited.
>>
No. 977035 ID: 77abda

Thank her. Ask her to point you the path to the Sanctuary.

I am not sure if it would be wise to give her money. She did earn it. But it might give her more trouble down the road. But perhaps some coins will convince her to not tell anybody that you were here.
>>
No. 977042 ID: 904948

Got tips to stay isolated? I dislike the rest of the guards here.
>>
No. 977046 ID: 36784c

>>977028
Do not hand out any rations! That would be very noticeable and would in fact give away that you’re not actually a guard here!
>>
No. 977050 ID: 70d854

>>977028
Don't give out rations, don't give out money, don't show off your medallion. Keep everything close to the chest, until you found a safe space (preferably with cheese nearby so you can assess damage/start to form a plan). Your authority given by Krix means nothing, the only thing you should consider as proof of your status is your sword. Assume everyone here is going to try to get out if given the chance, and act accordingly.
I'd personally suggest "checking your supplies" or some notes nearby this camp, and get an idea of their comings/goings. Try and find some landmark in the tunnels pointing back here, you may need a spot of sanity before you get lost in the black.
>>
No. 977052 ID: 76b5d8

>>977029
That's a nice thought for if he was still a guard at some random stop-gap town with time for naps.
Unfortunately he is in the mine of a scheming noble where most of the workers are either dead or slaves who would likely do anything to get the most comfortable job if not get out. While it would be nice to get a temporary ally, we don't have anything on us that wouldn't be instantly noticed by others and have us swamped for favors.
>>
No. 977061 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160092162379.png - (231.53KB , 1200x800 , 1488.png )
977061

I'd like to make sure I didn't cause her trouble by giving her something, but it's just too risky. I don't know how things are, down here. I'll take a closer look at camp, because as much as I'd like to check on Cheese, it's been a long walk down.

"Thank you." A thanks is all I feel I can give her for pointing to the outpost and the sanctuary that's supposedly in it. I'll stop imposing on her. There's plenty more I can ask, but I can impose on others in town.

Nothing more is said, but we walk in line still since this is the only path. There's only one real building here. Off to the side there are two small holes in the wall and a wooden door. None of them give me a welcoming aura as a stranger. They're most likely living quarters. This looks like the smallest kind of break town.

As we approach, the two people here who had wheelbarrows have emptied them and moved to the campfire where food is being cooked, and that food doesn't smell half bad. The building itself is ran by a lone draconic.

>"Welcome back, Nillin." He says to her as she turns the corner and begins pouring her rocks into another cart.

I notice tools on the side of the wall, each a number I can barely see etched into the wood. This might be some kind of minimal shop.

>"I haven't seen these two around." he half says to her, and half to us.
>"They're travelling to Fuschia by foot." says Nillin.
"The passenger lift had an accident." I add.
>"Really? I hope it was just the dead on those lifts, then. So where are you two stationed?" He asks us.
>>
No. 977063 ID: 465a14

>>977061
Nowhere, now. It wasn't just the dead on the lift and you'll need to report back on missing personnel and a broken lift, since Gahki had personal interest in your expedition.
>>
No. 977065 ID: b1b4f3

>>977061
There's no way people this far underground have been warned ahead of time. Also, you could test showing your visitor coin in this smaller camp, before getting challenged by the outpost proper. So just say you're a visitor.
I wonder... maybe he knows where injured visitors might be taken? You're looking for a third member of your group who fell.
>>
No. 977066 ID: 77abda

>>977063
Yeah, that sound about right.
>>
No. 977091 ID: 1ed92d

>>977061
Inform him that many living were on board, and some survivors may remain at the bottom of the shaft.
>>
No. 977102 ID: 53560f

“I can personally confirm that there were living on that lift, also I am a visitor so I’m not stationed anywhere. Anyway, how are things?”
Also see what Daspotta’s looking at assuming she isn’t just avoiding eye contact.
>>
No. 977106 ID: ce39da

"Nowhere, I'm a visitor."

Be on-guard if he asks you to flash your coin (even if the collars would blow any lie these guys can tell with it out of the water). Keep a tight grip on it, and hold it close to you.

"I can confirm there was at least one other living on the lift with us. I suppose Fuschia's where I should start if I want to report it and look for survivors? One of my aids is down there, and I want to confirm whether she's still alive."
>>
No. 977118 ID: 86eb65

Ask him what the quickest route to the bottom of that lift is. And who to yell at for the lax matinence of the ropes.
>>
No. 977123 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160097523382.png - (108.58KB , 800x800 , 1489.png )
977123

Daspotta's eyes are wandering around the camp, but so are mine.

"There were living on that lift. Since the lift broke, I'm stationed nowhere, and I'm finding where an injured person would be taken." I consider saying more, but I hesitate about keeping this guard facade up for long enough that he interrupts my thoughts.
>"Well if they fell all the way to the bottom, I suppose they'd just be treated in Fuschia. It's that way." He gestures to the same place Nillin pointed us towards. "If you're not in a hurry, though, you two look interesting. You're the first guards I've seen without an assigned station."
"We're not guards, we're visitors."
>"From where?"
"I live in Tunna."
>"I don't recognize the n - wait, from the surface?"

I nod. This guy gives me a frozen look, and Nillin pauses a second before she continues shifting dirt.

>"That gives me a lot of answers, and a lot of new questions. Friend, your business down here isn't any of my business, but we don't get visitors. We get bodies."
"Does this mean anything?" I flash the visitor's coin with a tight grip close to my body.
>"... No, I don't recognize it." He looks me over again. "But I know you're not lying. No collar on either of you, you're too well dressed, you're obviously not familiar with this place. Wait a second, if you came down all the way from Nillin's spot... have you two been drinking any water since you came down in the mines?"
"No, why?"
>"None?" Oh for goodness' sake." He turns to the side and calls out. "Quen! Get me two cups of water over here, would you?"
"I won't complain, but I don't want to impose."
>"Impose? Buddy, friend, surfacer, fellow, I think with the way you've been carrying on, you have another 10 minutes before you impose on us by collapsing from heat stroke."
>>
No. 977124 ID: 465a14

>>977123
Well, people are more forthcomingly helpful here than I expected. I suppose it's not such a surprise- in here you usually have to rely on social connections to survive, both with your peers and with your superiors. You should offer to fuck his ass to strengthen the social bond you've formed and establish that you're not an ingrate.
>>
No. 977125 ID: b970b2

Dammit all, that's something we've overlooked, mines get bloody warm, deceptively so. That explains why everyone you've seen has been wearing so little. You're going to need to shed a good chunk of that armour while down here to stay cool.
>>
No. 977126 ID: b1b4f3

>>977123
Is it really that hot down here? Are/were you sweating? Thirsty at all? If it's hot enough to be sweating and thirsty, then you do need water. Do you not have any water with your rations? You kindof need some water supplies regardless, and this small camp is much less likely to try to kill you than the main outpost-- there would have to be drugged/poisoned water supplies literally everywhere in order for this to be a trap since once the elevator broke there's no way to predict where you would land if you didn't land at the bottom.

Also it occurs to me that if the necromancer wanted you dead he could've just killed you with his guards? I really think it has to either be the crows that did it, or it was pure bad luck.
As for the coin not being familiar, that can be explained. It's probably only useful if you show it to a guard, or important people in an Outpost. Small camps like these can't be expected to get visitors.
>>
No. 977128 ID: fa2754

>>977123
Ask if this is a common problem down here
>>
No. 977130 ID: bb78f2

>>977123
Ok dude, what are the odds that if I'm supposed to flash this coin at guards, they've been instructed to off me immediately?

Sadly, you're going to have to take the coward's way out and let Daspotta take potential poision for you first before accepting the drink. If you get poisioned, she's dead one way or the other. At least if she does, her build may mitigate it better AND you personally have the means to defend yourself and get an antidote as soon as possible, by attacking your poisoner.

Plus, it might give her a morale boost in a weird way. Like taking a sacrifice that hopefully isn't harmful in anyway. She'll probably drink first anyway, assuming she's been trained for such a situation and that has been clarified in her duty manual or whatever.

You of course need to do this in a way that won't give it away that she's serving you and in a way that won't publicly shame you or the one giving the water.
>>
No. 977133 ID: 86eb65

That is a danger if its hot enough. How you feeling?

Carefully sniff water and possibly get your own from the same source instead of accepting it freely from them.
>>
No. 977136 ID: 7c00d9

Well you were sweating a river. I wasn't expecting so much hospitality in this place, but i won't complain, better reception that from the Lord himself. Might as well ask some more questions about what Gahki has been doing in this palce. What ever they know helps. Also about what chances Cheese has of surviving the fall.
>>
No. 977138 ID: 1ed92d

>>977123
I suspect this water supply is tainted.
>>
No. 977140 ID: b970b2

>>977138 >>977130 I'm not sure there's much reason to be concerned about poison, the guards control the only entrance in and out of the mine, and if a rebellion happened they could just cut the ropes for the lifts and let everyone starve while they locked the exit.

There's no need for them to add in more complex ways of controlling the slaves like poison when they have that, and if you suspect the guards ordering this outpost to poison Moss- the time delay makes that impossible. They tried to drop Moss to his death so they have no way of knowing where he is right now, they'd have to send a message to every outpost and hope it gets obeyed, which is logistically unfeasible.

The water might be poor quality from standing still, or if it's sourced from an underground stream it might have minerals dissolved in it, but not poison.

Apologies for being panicky / real serious about it but it's important. Heat stroke is a very real danger that can come on suddenly and it fucking sucks to get. There's a reason why the miners are wearing basically nothing, and Moss has been stomping about in armour all this time.
>>
No. 977143 ID: 36f784

>>977123
I wouldn't be surprised if they are being truthful about heat stroke. Mines can get quite stifling.
Still smell the water. I doubt they will poison you, but I doubt that it will taste that good. At worst you can use it to cool yourselves off.
>>
No. 977227 ID: ec2bbe

>>977138
Most definitely laced with something. Do Not Drink The Water. Fake it if you have to. Make sure Daspotta doesn't consume any either.
>>
No. 977228 ID: 7fa206

Aw shoot. If the guards have the good water supply, that'd make this tough.
How would aquifers work here?
>>
No. 977343 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160123345821.png - (184.01KB , 800x800 , 1490.png )
977343

"Is heat stroke a common problem?"
>"A problem? No, because we know how to deal with it. But we do need to deal with it."

There's no doubt it's hot in here. I'm sweating, but I had bigger concerns than heat.

"Is that why so many of you aren't clothed?"
>"What, did you think we just liked showing off?"
"I'll be honest. I thought you were all poor."
>"Poor? He knocks under the cabinet. "We might not look rich to you, but we have enough fabric back here to clothe everyone in this camp twice over. Maybe not three times over like you, and not with ringmail. Who's that with you anyway, who hasn't said a word?"
>"Don't mind me, sir!"
>"Shy? No problem. My name's Tauvel, by the way."

A kobold comes and sets two glasses on the counter, and Tauvel puts them in front of us. I pause. I don't know if this water is safe. Daspotta's quick to nudge her way to grab a glass.

"Hold it. How do we know this water's safe?"
>"... huh? What's wrong?"
>"I am obligated to taste test it, sir!" says Daspotta, possibly speaking to both me and Tauvel.
>"Taste te - wait, do you think this is poisoned?" Tauvel takes a sip out of each before putting them back towards us. "I've heard surfacers murder each other all the time, but things are different down here. Work down here is hard enough without us harming each other. Even if you're not miners, that extends to you two."
>>
No. 977344 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160123346921.png - (141.46KB , 800x800 , 1491.png )
977344

I take the cup, and Daspotta must think I'm about to drink, because she immediately takes a large gulp of it.

It doesn't have any weird smells. It's much cooler than I thought it would be.

This water is fine.

As far as I can tell. That doesn't mean it won't kill me.
>>
No. 977345 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160123353443.png - (160.72KB , 800x800 , 1492.png )
977345

The light in the tunnel towards the outpost shifts. Someone is approaching.

They wear thick cloth. They walk with an authoritative swagger. A sword is visible. It's a guard.
>>
No. 977346 ID: 465a14

You have to work to ensure a good first impression. Exertion and infection are real dangers down here, you can't risk a fight and it's better to take the initiative and deal with him than to hide and hope nothing goes wrong. So you have to deal with him on friendly terms. I recommend good old fashioned ass-fucking.
>>
No. 977347 ID: b1b4f3

Poison shouldn't be a concern really. What's more concerning would be some kind of drug in the water that's meant for the miners. Something that keeps them docile or... I don't know.
If Daspotta feels fine then drink up.

Now, this is a lone guard? I think it's time to see if the visitor coin works, and also find out if the guards know you're here. You should still be worried about being attacked, but it's ONE guard. You can at least fight on even terms with one guard.
>>
No. 977349 ID: a2643d

>>977345
One guard? Well, time to see if the coin works or if you have to cut them down before they cut you down. Have your sword ready either way.
>>
No. 977350 ID: 0c0a56

>>977343
Well then. Let's get around the corner and get naked
>>
No. 977353 ID: 36784c

>>977347
This.
>>
No. 977354 ID: 7c00d9

You don't have much choice in regards with the water. Drink up.
I really don't know how to deal with the guard.
Maybe get out of sight? Tell the miners not to say you were here.
>>
No. 977355 ID: 86eb65

Until we are sure that word has actually gotten down here to kill us we treat them like we are proper visitors.

Still be battle ready though.
>>
No. 977356 ID: 231248

Play it cool. But if that doesn't work play it cooler and blend in by getting naked.
>>
No. 977382 ID: 53560f

Drink the water and ask him if said desire to work together applies to the guards and if he considers them trustworthy.
Then when the guard gets closer ask them if the visitor’s coin means anything to them.
>>
No. 977386 ID: bb78f2

>>977343
Please don't take insult to the paranoia. My job unfortunately requires a lot of it if I want to live longer than a day. I'm forced to deal with noble after noble after noble. It's not fun.
>>
No. 977434 ID: 1ed92d

>>977345
Paranoia is crucial in this line of work.

Anyway, the guard is almost certainly not here to deal with you. Presumably any guards searching for you will be searching the wreckage at the bottom. Casually stand around the corner from the guard so you can follow him and murder him later.
>>
No. 977451 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160131042385.png - (230.44KB , 1200x800 , 1493.png )
977451

Am I seen? I don't know. I hesitate to try and hide, and she stops for a half second. Now I stay where I'm at, because it's too late to hide.

>"Tauvel, how trustworthy are the guards?" I whisper to him.
>"They don't give us trouble if we don't give them trouble. Just give them some respect, answer their questions. Above all, be friendly without being their friend." he says, hardly whispering at all.

The guard approaches, and she puts out her torch. I'll drink the water later. If something's wrong with it, I want it to have its effect on me after this guard leaves. If nothing's wrong with it, I'll owe Tauvel an apology.

I desperately hope I don't have to fight this guard, but I may have to.

She walks forward along the path, notices us, and moves to the opposite side of the counter. She's on guard. So am I. Tauvel speaks to her.

>"Hey there, Keau."
>"Same to you, Tauvel. You been alright?" she asks.
>"Same as always. Here for a surprise inspection?"
>"No. We're making our rounds through all subtown camps, looking for some visitors."
>"Like these two?"
>"Unless we have multiple field kobolds with a diamond forehead patch running around this deep in full chainmail and leather accompanied by a poluputus mountain kobold, then yes, against all odds, they ended up all the way out here." She faces us. "Are you two alright?"
"Good enough. Does this coin mean anything?" I show my coin to Keau. "Tauvel didn't recognize it."
>"A passage coin. Moss and Daspotta, right? You are the exception to the rule of no visitors, so I am not surprised Tauvel didn't recognize the coin. If you both can walk, I have to ask you to come back with me to the local outpost. We have to figure out what happened, because there's evidence of foul play."
"You don't say."
>"... I do say." Her voice is level, but she seems tense.
>>
No. 977453 ID: 86eb65

Remember that this mess could be a third party trying to kill you to expose the lords activities. You enemy might be one of his underlings who is attempting a coup.

The guards are not your enemies just yet. But do insist on tracking down Cheese first. She could be very hurt and we need to check on her.
>>
No. 977455 ID: d8a7af

Well, this was unexpected. In any case, we can't leave just yet, not after we find Cheese. Hopefully alive, if not... we have to at least see the body.
We also have to find what we came to look for here. This is not negotiable.
>>
No. 977458 ID: a9af05

>>977451
You might as well drink the water since you have to go with the guard.

Agree that you'll go with her but only after you find Cheese or confirm that they found her and she's waiting for us up ahead.
>>
No. 977459 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160131703422.png - (101.38KB , 800x800 , 1494.png )
977459

"There was another one with us."
>"The cave mutant, Cheese, correct?"
"That's right. I want to find her, first."
>"We're searching for her, too."
"She's missing?"
>"I don't know the details, but there were witnesses. She was injured, possibly with a broken leg, but she ran away before they could calm her down. We haven't found her since, but if she was badly hurt, it's doubtful she got far."
"I still have other business down here I have to get to."
>"We just want to know what you saw. After we have our questions, you'll be allowed to go back to what you were doing. So please come with me."
>>
No. 977460 ID: 465a14

>>977459
Even if it's a trap, it's the only lead you've got and the bit about dehydration makes it fairly clear you're not going to make it on your own. Drink and go along.
>>
No. 977462 ID: b1b4f3

>diamond forehead patch
You may want to consider obscuring that easily identifiable mark at some point, for when you're walking around in potentially dangerous areas and don't want to be recognized.

Anyway, this seems believable so far, but tell the guard you're a bit worried they'll try to kill you if you go into the outpost, since the elevator accident looked like an attempt on your life. Do they know of anyone who would have wanted you or Cheese dead and had access to the elevator, if not the authorities down here?
>>
No. 977464 ID: d8a7af

Shhhhhhhhhhhhit i dont like this one bit. I personaly REALLY don't go back with her.
>>
No. 977465 ID: 70d854

>>977460
Agreed. Not much we can do at the moment, so go along with it for now.

>>977462
Yeeaaah we should probably remeber that for the future. How rare are diamond marks, exactly?
>>
No. 977466 ID: b8e56c

"I think you might understand why we'd be wary of walking into the middle of a bunch of armed kobolds after "evidence of foul play"? I'd guess Tauvel here has something good for writing things down, so you can ask us questions and head back with them yourself. Cheese is going to be in pain and stressed and we're the only ones here who could calm her down, so I want to start looking for her now before she might get more... panicky."
>>
No. 977467 ID: 42ae67

>>977459
You know, the best traps are usually placed at exit points. If they are leading you towards a trap, then it's possible for you to find a way out at that same spot.
Of course I'm not sure if the people here even care one way or another about you.
>>
No. 977468 ID: 42ae67

>>977459
You know, the best traps are usually placed at exit points. If they are leading you towards a trap, then it's possible for you to find a way out at that same spot.
Of course I'm not sure if the people here even care one way or another about you.
>>
No. 977469 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160132279938.png - (130.78KB , 800x800 , 1495.png )
977469

I pause and focus. I'm feeling oddly faint -

No, not oddly. It's hot. To hell with the paranoia I need that water, so I take a sip. It's far too good. I think I did wait too long, even mine water is apparently fantastic to me now.

I take another sip. No, it's only partially that I needed it more than I thought. It's much better than I expected. It's much cooler than I would have thought down here. It's also no worse than water out of a fresh brook on the surface, and I wonder if they somehow drain water directly from a brook down here so that people have fresh water.

I turn my attention back to her.

>"I'm not convinced that the elevator falling wasn't an attempt on my life." I consider where she would go to lead me to a trap. The answer is anywhere. The tunnels make the entire trip a series of chokepoints.
>"I was told to be cautious if I found any of you, because you might believe that. But the moment you stepped in these mines, we wouldn't have needed to make it an accident."
>"Who else would want us dead down here?"

She pauses and looks around.

>"Tauvel, you listen to me, too. There is evidence that the dead are not docile. Do not trust them, and watch your words and yourselves around their crows. None of this is confirmed, this is speculation around evidence. You heard none of this from me, do all of you understand?"
"What do the crows have to do with this?"
>"They're linked to the dead. I don't know anything beyond that."

Damn it, if all of this is even true, Cheese might be trying to get to the crows right now.

"I have another idea. I give you a report, right here and now, of what we say. Tauvel, you can take notes, right?"
>"My orders are to bring you back." Keau answers before giving Tauvel the chance. "We'll have questions for you, more than just you recounting what you remember right now."
"And I want to find Cheese."
>"If you went looking right now, then we're more likely to find her while you're off losing yourselves in the mines trying to find her."
>>
No. 977470 ID: 465a14

>>977469
Annoyingly plausible. And picking their brains' your best chance to deal with the current information asymmetry, better than gambling with going it solo in the mines. Let's see what's up.
>>
No. 977471 ID: 1ed92d

We have to consider something: If the lich were trying to kill us, why would he not just blast us with a fireball or have his goons kill us with swords? What possible reason does he have to sabotage his own elevator?

It's not like we're Fen and have a reputation for killing entire towns near single-handedly through happenstance. What is going on?
>>
No. 977472 ID: b1b4f3

>>977469
She's partially right, you have no layout of the mines. To look for Cheese you need a map, or a guide.
To hire a guide you need more supplies, and you need at least two waterskins to hold your water supply(one for you and one for Daspotta), which means you need to go to the outpost anyway. I'm afraid you have no other option but to try to make a quick report so you can join the search for Cheese.

Also yeah unfortunately the Crows are the most likely suspect here. They might be aligning themselves with the undead uprising that Fen is fighting, which means there's a second necromancer here...? Or simply undead from a different necromancer sent through tunnels, and they're mixed in with the local docile undead without the noble knowing about it. I don't know which is worse, honestly.
Worst case, unlikely scenario is they're trying to kill you specifically down here in the mines so that a more skilled necromancer can raise you and Daspotta to walk out of the mines "alive" then die somewhere else to avoid suspicion. Maybe Cheese too, depends on factors that Moss doesn't know about yet (other members of her family siding with the necromancers)
>>
No. 977473 ID: 86eb65

"Give me more info first. Let me know more about the dead down here and how I can identify them. Ways to survive and the lay of the land."

"I need a reason to trust you and getting me up to date on my surroundings is the best bet."
>>
No. 977476 ID: bb78f2

>>977469
What you say is logical about the accident, but do you have orders to cut me down if I refuse? Because its not as if my fears aren't just as logical and that it's not exactly unwise to refuse to go with you. A single choice here could make all the difference in the world for a man in my position.

I would appreciate a few moments to contemplate my choices, even if they're illusionary. Could you provide me that courtesy, before I accept the potential consequences of a refusal? I need to breath now that I have that extra bit of information to process.
>>
No. 977478 ID: 42ae67

>>977469
The crows are with the dead. The Crows are upset with Fen. Fen is Fighting the dead. You are allied with Fen.
Could the crows be trying to kill you?
>>
No. 977481 ID: d8a7af

You think that the crows allied with the undead because they are anti-empire? Thus making averyone that is against the undead their enemies as well? If that is the case, we are all kind of fucked in some ways, Fen particulary, with all the gold the crows were saving for him and such. And trying to kill him and his acomplices. So yeah this is going south really fast.
>>
No. 977484 ID: b1b4f3

>>977481
The crows didn't have that gold anymore anyway. Most of Fen's ill gotten gains were reclaimed.
>>
No. 977485 ID: a9af05

>>977469
If you want to find Cheese, then you need to go with the guard. You'll need a guide so you don't get lost down here.
>>
No. 977486 ID: ce39da

"Fine, let's get this done. I agree it's plausible that Gahki's innocent (this time), and I don't have the resources to look for Cheese competently. I'm warning you, though, a recent acquaintance has shown me what the difference between total defeat and just being in a spot is - I wouldn't test me if I were you."
>>
No. 977488 ID: e2f5cc

You have no real reason to not comply with Keau. Resisting will only make this harder on you and she's right when she said you'd already be dead if Gahki wanted you to be. Going with her grants information you clearly need in these winding tunnels along with access to 1. The guard if shit goes down, and 2. Living land, which im sure you remember what happens if you go too long without.
>>
No. 977498 ID: 36784c

>She was injured, possibly with a broken leg, but she ran away before they could calm her down.
How exactly was Cheese able to run away from the guards if she’s got a broken leg?

>We haven't found her since, but if she was badly hurt, it's doubtful she got far.
If she couldn’t have gotten far, then shouldn’t the guards have been able to find her before they found us?

>What do?
We’re gonna need to go with the guards in order to find Cheese. Hopefully if she sees a familiar face, that will get her to calm down.
>>
No. 977526 ID: d8a7af

>>977498
Well, she is still a mutant, and she can easily go through small holes. She always has an ace up her sleeve.
>>
No. 977862 ID: 15a025

We may just have to settle for now that Cheese isn't dead, but injured for now. If we're not quick though, we may have to start worrying about her getting heat stroke.
>>
No. 978633 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160280768676.png - (82.97KB , 800x800 , 1496.png )
978633

"Give me more info. How do I identify the dead?"
>"They don't have a pulse, and many don't breathe. Once you see a few, you can tell just by sight from how they move, but some are more convincing than others."
"And how do I survive down here?"
>"Visitors can request food and water from guard outposts. The rest of us just have to do our duties."
"Alright. I'll go. "Thanks for the water, Tauvel."
>"Thank the camp. We all have to work to earn the water."
"Send them my thanks, then."
>"And mine, too." Daspotta adds.
"Okay. Bring us to the outpost, Keau." I have more questions, a dozen at least, but I just remembered the outpost has a sanctuary. Maybe when I get questioned, I can ask my questions, like about Cheese's apparent ability to run with a broken leg.

I do idly consider wiping some mud on my forehead to hide this diamond mark. It's not extremely rare, but I've only seen so many kobolds with a similar mark. When she called it out, she apparently had to specify that I was also wearing full chain and leather, so maybe there really is some other unfortunate soul down here with a diamond mark.

The passageway slowly gets more traffic. Haulers drag empty carts away, while we follow filled carts through the widened, two lane passage until we reach the outpost.
>>
No. 978634 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160280769767.png - (219.08KB , 1200x800 , 1497.png )
978634

Keau leads me into a corner building and tells another guard to fetch their captain. She waits nearby while we sit on a bench. I melt right onto it. This ground has mana.

>"Are you alright, sir?" asks Daspotta. "I saw a bucket of water around the corner if you need it."

The mana would relax me if not for the heat being as bad as ever, and being in a situation like this. Armor is uncomfortable to me in the best of times, but never as uncomfortable as a sword through the skin. I already have it on, and if I'm supposed to be dead and these guards realize that... maybe I need to fry a bit more just to be safe.

I don't like how long this is taking. Maybe it's been 10 minutes. Maybe an hour. Their captain's slow.
>>
No. 978635 ID: 465a14

>>978634
Hey, so, have you seen Daspotta's breaths?
>>
No. 978636 ID: b1b4f3

>>978634
Leave armor on, take off your coat. Make use of the bucket.
>>
No. 978637 ID: e2f5cc

Hey, why haven't Daspotta's eyes dimmed like yours? Mountain kobold thing?

A continued descent into Fen-like thinking aside, ask Keau about how long it's been while you continue to veg out.
>>
No. 978644 ID: 36784c

>>978634
>I don't like how long this is taking. Maybe it's been 10 minutes. Maybe an hour. Their captain's slow.
That’s the heat talking. You just barely got here and it hasn’t even been a minute yet! You might need some more water so you can feel better.

>>978635
She’s been with us the entire time, so she can’t be undead.
>>
No. 978645 ID: 83ea8d

Daspotta looks fresh like lettuce. Lucky her.

Is it the heat or suddenly all draconic kobolds look like alike?

Ask for water.
>>
No. 978648 ID: 77cba3

Drink water and think about if its worth it to keep the armor on right now. Until you aclimate to the heat you are risking death before anyone can even try to kill you.

If you pass out or start halucinating from heat stroke the armor will do nothing. I would strongly suggest drinking at every available oppertunity.

If you do take off the mail roll it up into a pack so Daspatta can carry it for you.
>>
No. 978649 ID: 8fd6c0

If you're able to get excess fur shaved off, that'd probably help.
>>
No. 978654 ID: 1a8428

You're absolutely sure that's "wearing armor" heat and not "I've been poisoned" heat, right? I'd say yes to the bucket but check that it is actually water intended for drinking, first. Could be spare waste water meant for use to clear mining dust or some such.
>>
No. 978655 ID: 1ed92d

>>978634
Drink water. Question why it's increasingly hot the deeper underground you go.
>>
No. 978828 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160299918664.png - (156.25KB , 1000x800 , 1498.png )
978828

I look at Daspotta. She is breathing, so she didn't...er... turn into the dead while I wasn't looking. If anything, my breathing sounds worse. Her eyes are still dim, but mountain eyes tend to retain their original colors, and just dim a bit.

"Keau, how long has it been?"
>"Not half an hour. He may be busy dealing with the recent accident or any other issues. Please continue waiting."

I grunt. It was supposed to be a 'thanks' or something polite, but I give up while I take off my coat and stuff it in my bag, which Daspotta takes so she can hold it herself.

"Daspotta, yes, please get me that buck - wait. Hey, Keau. Is that water meant for drinking?"
>"Huh?" Daspotta gestures to the bucket. "No. That's the thermoscope water."
"The what?"
>"For measuring how hot it is down here. If you need water - here, just take mine." She hands me the canteen, and I take a drink. They can't have poisoned everything. That's paranoia. That's Fen-talk. This is regular heat, not poison-heat. Not like I know what heat because of poison is. It's not spicy heat, it's heat because the air's hot.
"I'll tell you how hot it is, it's hot. What I'm curious about is why it's so hot down here?"
>"Some say the dragon never died, but it went down to rest and warm the earth from the bottom up. Others say wilder things. Me, I don't know, it just is hot. It rarely changes, but we do need to know. Up at the surface this time of year is usually, hm, I think... yeah, 23."
"23."
>"Marks on the bucket. This outpost gets up to around a 34 or 35. To put it in perspective to an outside, a 37 or 38 is when field kobolds start dying no matter how much water they have. 41 and up is the danger zone for draconics and mountains. It also depends on how sticky the air is, but we regulate that. Somehow. So the air is dry enough. If you hear a crow screaming a 'caw-CAW-caw' repeatedly, it means something's gone wrong and the temperature is getting too high, so if you're at your limit already, it means move upwards to get cooler."

Fields have the short stick on heat tolerance. I see. Daspotta gets a cloth out to wipe my face off a bit, and she looks like we're on surface temperature.

>"Let's find some reliable source of water after this, sir."
>>
No. 978829 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160299923084.png - (260.07KB , 800x800 , 1499.png )
978829

That sounds like a good idea, but I hear someone come through a door.

>"What?" asks Keau. Apparently, not the captain.
>"Message for Moss." They've got a crackly voice like a mutant, but it's not Cheese either.
>"What's it about?"
>"I was told under absolute terms that it was only for Moss. If I can't go in, can he come out to get this?"

I get up to see myself, and Keau stands aside. The mutant hands me a letter.

To Moss - Read In Private!
things are fucked
crows tried to kill us
they're going to convince Sir Gahki to finish the assassination
do not trust guards, trying to get this letter to you fast so can't write more
new plan meet at Roc Underpass
please hide and live

>>
No. 978830 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160299924211.png - (194.79KB , 800x800 , 1500.png )
978830

ps burn this letter

I remember when I told Fen to stay away from Cheese.

Sometime, I should try following my own advice.
>>
No. 978832 ID: 77cba3

Burn the letter in the lantern first.

Then quietly get the location of Roc underpass from someone. The guards might be after you eventually but for now they have not gotten word to mess with you. Your best bet is to get as much water as you can and meet up with Cheese fast.
>>
No. 978833 ID: 465a14

well you're stuck in a place that slowly kills you surrounded by people who either have no power or are actively trying to kill you

time to die i guess ol buddy it's been good

or just figure out how to fucken leave, there have to be exits the crows use that the nobility don't control
>>
No. 978838 ID: f8fa51

Do not under any but the most dire circumstances mention Roc Underpass by name. Anyone who you talk to about it will know immediately where you're going. Instead, ask about landmarks and navigation in more general terms.
>>
No. 978839 ID: b1b4f3

>>978830
Alright, I guess the mission is a bust. We were here to talk to the crows, but now the crows are trying to kill us. New priority is leaving. Cheese is being stupid, she should be trying to join up with you in order to escape, because even though the crows are going to talk to Sir Gahkt, negotiations take time and we've seen how stubborn Sir Gahkt can be.

Burn the letter, ask Keau how easily they can get orders from Sir Gahkt with the elevator broken. Depending on the answer we can either continue using their services for an indeterminate amount of time or take advantage of their temporary good will to get/buy provisions and a map so you can survive off the grid. Though, you will say you're getting those supplies so you can go find Cheese on your own, because she is actively hiding from the guards and you will be better able to find her alone.
Also ask how you can get out of the mines with the elevator broken.

Do not directly mention Roc Underpass to anyone. Just get a general map so you can locate it on your own and they can't predict your movements.
If Keau is likely to have seen the contents of the letter, seriously consider killing him to keep the information from getting out.
>>
No. 978842 ID: ff289b

Plus side, you have some idea of who's after you, as well as who to avoid.

Top priority (besides a paper fire) is to leave. Maybe tell the guard you have to relieve yourself?

You're still pretty obvious. It's tough to pass off as workers without collars. Perhaps disguise yourself a bit, especially your face, to pass off as a guard? The issue with that, though, is Daspotta. Would your coat work as a disguise?
>>
No. 978851 ID: ce39da

"So it's war, then?" Burn the letter. "Daspotta, even if we're technically outside our jurisdiction, can I assume I still get to exercise my right to defend myself with prejudice against anyone and anything below the gold level? Assaulting me is a crime I can personally prosecute no matter where I am?"
>>
No. 978860 ID: bb78f2

>>978830
You know what, fuck subtlety, lets appease the guards curiosity because we're not Cheese and rev this situation up to Danger Zone. It's ballsy enough to work in our favor.

In case that letter gets taken from you, lick your finger and spread the ink on the words Roc Underpass real quick. It might be best to get rid of that entire sentence, but at least get Roc Underpass.

Cheese just contacted me. Says the crows just tried to assassinate us and they're going to contact Gahki to finish us off and not to trust the guards here. Since I used to be a guard, how do you feel about this personally?
>>
No. 978863 ID: 4a7d07

>>978839
GTFO.
>>
No. 978876 ID: 8fab7a

Take some Fen checks.

1) Can you recognize this as Cheese's handwriting?
2) Is that mutant breathing / do they have a pulse?

If both are a 'yes', burn the note in the lantern and give the guard threat of heatstroke as a reason to get you moving elsewhere (so you can keep ahead of local news / pursuit). Also, get a map if you can, or a guide... though it'd very much be leading them into danger. Maybe you could get Keau on your side, for now. I doubt they've been informed about what's going on if Sir Gahki wasn't in on it initially, which means we can probably trust her until she receives a new order or think what we do is in opposition to her lord / livelihood / orders.

At the very least you can try to pump her for more useful information.

"I have my first lead, it seems. I will need a map or a guide."

If she can arrange that, let her, then pretend the heatstroke is getting to you and admit to Keau that you undressed too late and need to be escorted somewhere with less heat and more water. The captain can catch up, unless he'd prefer meeting with a dried-up husk.

Then, during the escort elsewhere - somewhere private - you can give Keau the skinny, or give her the slip with the map and/or guide in tow. Worst case you beat her up, tie her up and leave a message with her for her superiors / Sir Gahki.

Though this is something you might be able to do regardless. Something like:

Sir Gahki,

Despite my slowly purpling bruises I - diplomatically - advice you remain in your seat while we attempt to sort the matter of this plot. You may also wish to investigate which of your many 'loyal agents' sold us out, as your complaint of lacking able-bodied miners suggests a fruitful solution to this question.

Sincerely,

Decorated Peasant Moss


Or words to that effect. I don't know how effective it'll be, it's essentially just reminding him that he's got the threat of Dragon Knights hanging over him if you (well, Cheese) bites it down here and trying to get him to deal with the crow-ruption in his own ranks rather than focus on hunting you down.

And tossing in enough references / non-deferences that he believes it's actually from you.
>>
No. 978879 ID: e2f5cc

You said it yourself Moss: You wont last out there without help, much less get to the underpass. So how about we make a calculated risk? Rip off the part saying where you wanna go and show it Keau, asking if she's willing to help, albeit with your sword out.

Now even worst case scenario, all that happens is that she goes hostile after reading it and tells the guard to drop pretenses so you lose an element of surprise.

Best case scenario though, Keau won't mind the reasonable distrust and wants an out of this shitty place. If you reveal your ranking, you give her one while also saving an "important" life and the opportunity to do a lot more with her own.

Now even if Keau seems to be amicable to helping you out, don't tell her where exactly you'll be going until you're alone, and place Daspotta between you two with orders to tackle her if she tries something. Like I said, definitely a risk, but it will pay dividends if it pays off.
>>
No. 978892 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160306868487.png - (191.11KB , 800x800 , 1501.png )
978892

It at least looks like Cheese's handwriting. I burn the letter. It's a good thing that Roc's Underpass is easy to commit to memory. The mutant, who appears alive as far as I can tell, is leaving.

>"Please don't wander far." Keau calls out from behind me as I walk to the lamp.
"How long does it take for Sir Gahki to send a message, with the elevator broken?" I answer without turning around.
>"It was just one elevator, wasn't it? The rest of the mine continues. It doesn't slow down messages from Lord Gahki at all."
"... okay. I'm going to pass out from heatstroke if we stay here. Let's move upwards."
>"It's a long ways up before it gets much cooler, and I don't want to send my captain on a long chase. There's more water inside." She's pushy about not letting me wander, so I can't imagine how I'd get her as a mine guide.

The thought that everyone with any power down here is going to be trying to kill me, with no known escape... I might just want to run without a word, right now. I could find a decent hole, I bet. If I manage to climb up to a cooler spot, I can go a long time without eating.

>"Miss?" Daspotta asks from the building. "If Moss stays here, may I be excused to fetch him some water?"
"I suppose that's fine."

... But I have to get Daspotta out of here, so I can't be a coward.

"No, stay with me, Daspotta. I'll find more water soon. Keau, if we can't leave, then at least give me a map to read." I'd ask Daspotta if field marshals are legally able to defend themselves against anyone under gold, but at this point I'd defend myself from Lady Apanya herself.
>"Hm.... Maybe the administration building has a guide pamphlet." She says it like asking for a map is a strange request. "You can go there after the questioning."
"Are they good maps?"
>"They help you from getting lost. If you need find a specific camp or other spot, there's a detailed map inside. You can't take it, but it's something to do while you wait."
>>
No. 978893 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160306869591.png - (109.29KB , 800x800 , 1502.png )
978893

I may only find the underpass on a detailed map, so I hurry back in. Keau shows me to a separate room with a map posted on the wall. There's another guard in here, and he's opposite the room from Keau.

The size of this mine surprises me again. It takes me a moment just to find Camp Fuschia. 3,000 people sleep here. Its administration building Keau mentioned, a few guard outposts, and a wizard's alcove are all that's labelled. I look to my side - is Keau's hand closer to her sword? No, that's my imagination, it's always rested there. There's no good escape path in here.

No, I need to focus on the map so I can get out of here, not the guards! But if anything this map is too detailed! There's labels all over it. I see hundreds of camps.

The temperature labels... Keau said 40 marks were dangerous, but the deepest point here is 52 marks? My fur would catch on fire. There's camp.... 1691, the highest number I've seen yet. Outpost Blue, Red, Magenta... 5 miles east is a big open patch on the canvas. Outpost Turquoise - population 46,000, that many? There are other major locations, some called 'Tin Reservoir 3' or similar, then some way out of the way places with names like 'Bunker Lowall' with no extra data to what it's for or who's there. And there's the mutant village, apparently they hang together even down here.

Damnit, if Cheese's letter didn't find me, I could be blissfully unaware of my situation, and carefully analyze this map for what I need. Now I'm unable to calm down and short on breath, but no matter how hard I look at this map... I cannot find a single mention of Roc Underpass! And this smell, it's getting awful. There's been a nauseating smell that's been getting worse, like... death.

There's variety of dead bodies that I don't think were around earlier.
>>
No. 978896 ID: 465a14

Roc Underpass is "rock under pass", Moss.
>>
No. 978897 ID: 465a14

>>978896
Specifically, find where a pass has a notable rock under it and go there.
>>
No. 978899 ID: 77cba3

Look for any notable underpasses or things that could be one.

Then honestly we need to get a move on. Have Daspatta memorize this map for you and save any water you can for the trip. We need to get moving or we are going to get surrounded eventually.
>>
No. 978902 ID: e2f5cc

Consider the possibility you're having a panic attack from the extreme duress your body and it's senses are under.
>>
No. 978904 ID: 1a8428

>>978896
That'd make sense if it was spoken, but Cheese specifically wrote it that way. Perhaps she doesn't mean for you to stay in the mines at all? Just get out, and Roc Underpass is somewhere else? But if you've never heard of it, Moss, that would be useless, and I guess Cheese would probably be smart enough not to send you off somewhere you didn't know. Hmm. Alright, maybe it was a second level of code, then? She probably wouldn't have trusted to the letter not being read. But she'd have wanted you to know. Do you remember any of the passwords or doubletalk Cheese taught you that might have been used, here?

Turquoise is a rock, if that helps, though I'd guess half the places here are named after things you can mine. Is it just me, or does it look like some of those tunnels go off the map? And that some of the lower tunnels open into more natural-looking caves??
>>
No. 978908 ID: b1b4f3

>>978893
>dead smell
Yep, the necromancer's sending an undead army to kill you.
I suspect Roc Underpass is either a code phrase or a name that the miners use but the guards don't. Cheese has not been down here before, so she shouldn't have access to an official map. You need to go to a miner camp and get a map with names on it.
Find one of the slave camps that's higher up and head there.

and by head there I mean whisper to Daspotta that you're about to run, and then book it.
>>
No. 978920 ID: f115f6

Of course it's big, it hides all of Gahki's dirty secrets.
That village seems a good bet, if we fail to figure this out.

>agitated
>short of breath
Also, either you have heat stroke, or you either got hit with a spell that messes with your head. Or both. Either way, "heat stroke" is a perfect excuse to get higher up. Immediately.
>smell
Alchemical gas vector?
The less it smells, the better.
>>
No. 978925 ID: 4a7d07

Might as well be a reference to something. Can't you see something like a underpass in the map?

Smell of death... that is not good. It never is. We need to get out of here and fast.
>>
No. 978965 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160314116020.png - (141.05KB , 800x800 , 1503.png )
978965

"Daspotta, come over here and try to memorize this map with me."
>"Yes sir."

>Roc underpass
>Rock underpass
>Rock under pass

Is it that simple, did Cheese send me some kind of code? I look at the map for significant... rocks...?

Under a pass?

It's a multi layered mine with various cave systems! Passes go over and loop around each other all over! And over a rock, they...

There's passes everywhere, in a mine! It's all rock under passes!

Is it some double code?! If Cheese is using double codes on me, she shouldn't have bothered sending me a letter!
>>
No. 978966 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160314117430.png - (231.77KB , 1200x800 , 1504.png )
978966

Enough. I need to get out of here.

"Keau, what are all these areas that go off the map? Caverns just.. end?"
>"I don't know. I just live in this area. Exploratory mining, maybe?"
"Daspotta, grab some skins, come with me."

There's some waterskins I saw on a wall, along with a torch. I take them and make haste out the door.
>"Sir?" Daspotta follows me and speaks as I hear Keau stomping out after us.
>"Wait, you two!"

There are people looking at us as we leave! And crows, too! They're not even bothering trying to be sneaky about this! They're not running at me, but they turn to me and start following us along with Keau.

>"Where are we going, sir?" asks Daspotta.
"Up."

I saw a line of camps upwards by going this way, I think. But the map was hard to read, and I'm going to be running off my memory now. It doesn't matter much, I just need to get somewhere so I can panic in peace! It's either that or go straight to the elevator out of here and hope Sir Gahki hasn't sent any killing orders yet.
>>
No. 978967 ID: 465a14

>>978965
In that case go back to where you fell. It's the only pass Cheese can be certain that both of you know about, and there's bound to be a bunch of rocks.
>>
No. 978970 ID: 4a7d07

>>978967
Yeah that would make the most sense.
>>
No. 978972 ID: bb78f2

Ok, like, we may need some Lore on your world here Moss. Does the name Roc mean anything in particular in your world? In ours, it's usually associated with a feather or bird for some reason. So... look for where they store the crows for monitoring temperature is my guess. Or if there are OTHER birds in this mine, like canaries for gas. There has to be other bird types within the mine.
>>
No. 978974 ID: e7848c

>>978966
Did she per-chance see anywhere called roc underpass on that map
>>
No. 978975 ID: 9e8c3e

Just to be sure...
"Daspotta, who, besides Keau, follows us?"
>>
No. 978976 ID: b1b4f3

>>978967
Sure, why not.
>>
No. 978977 ID: b1b4f3

>>978966
>crows too
Hmm, I wonder if you can get one to tell you why they're trying to kill you and Cheese.
>>
No. 978983 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160315103452.png - (93.69KB , 1200x800 , 1505.png )
978983

"Daspotta, did you see a Roc Underpass on that map?" Cheese put down 'Roc', no k. I've heard the term before, but I can't remember where it came from. I'll have to ask someone later, maybe Daspotta knows.
>"No, sir."
"Okay. Can you run?"
>"I think I can for awhile, sir. There's a lot of people looking at us. Do we need to?"
"I know, and yes. Do your best to keep up."

I was told the undead don't speak, but... no, I'm not going to turn to them to try now. I'm going back to the pass where I fell. Maybe Cheese can find me there. I can't go up the elevator again. Not when undead will take the lift with me, and maybe even be the ones pulling for all I know. I'll go back to the pass on foot.

We run.

Keau starts cursing us out as she keeps up with us at first, but she gets winded quickly and can't keep up. We can't slow down, though. We have to run far enough ahead that when my pursuers reach a fork in the road, they can't just look at the illuminated path. The undead, thankfully, seem too slow to keep up at all.
>>
No. 978984 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160315104216.png - (168.02KB , 800x800 , 1506.png )
978984

Finally, a clearing! Hell, what was I thinking grabbing four completely full waterskins, that's heavy! But we've made it far. Fuck, I might be lost. I couldn't think about every fork in the road and now I don't recognize this, but I have to sit. I'm going to pass out if I take another step. Daspotta doesn't look fresh, either. Better than me, I bet. Ugh, 'Do your best to keep up', I tell her, and I'm on my knees here.

>"Daspotta... hfff.... hfff... does the word.... 'Roc', mean anything to you?"
"... I'm sorry, sir." She gulps. "Did I do something wrong?"
>"What?... No, no, R-O-C, Roc, no k."
"Oh! Yes. A little. It's... a type of greater beast? Some writings just say a Roc is any southern beast, excluding northern ones. I think some thought it was the name of one greater beast, the great bird of the southern empire, but the language behind it has morphed a lot. Especially up north, where we don't hear from southerners very often."
>"Hey, those are two familiar voices I hear back there." I hear... Tauvel! He's calling out from around the corner. Is this the camp? My vision is blurry, I can barely see. If it is, we came out of a side passage, not the main tunnel.
>>
No. 978986 ID: 77cba3

You need to drink and breathe Moss. You are about to pass out. Maybe go pass out under Tauvels stand where no one can see you.


Roc could mean southern then? The southern most underpass?
>>
No. 978988 ID: b1b4f3

Strip some of your armor off and rest.
If Tauvel comes to investigate, tell him you got lost and need a guide. If they use money down here you can pay. You also need water again.
>>
No. 978989 ID: b970b2

Two things: Was there any greater beast corpse or remains on the map? It's possible Cheese was referring to that.

Second, get your damp armour off ASAP so your fur can actually wick moisture off like it's supposed to. You'll broil in your own fur if you stay like this.
>>
No. 978990 ID: e2f5cc

Operation "get a guide cause you're fucked if you don't" 2.0 is a ago, with our new target being Tauvel. This operation is now non-optional because it's not like you can run any farther. On that same line of thinking though, chug some water you fluffy moron.
>>
No. 978991 ID: 1ed92d

>>978984
Drink water, try to breathe. Acquire Tauvel. Explain that if he doesn't get you to safety, all three of you will die horribly at the claws of zombies and beaks of angry birds.
>>
No. 978992 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160315777437.png - (253.08KB , 800x800 , 1507.png )
978992

I get myself up just to go around the corner to Tauvel's stand.

>"That's water on your waist, I hope."
"Yeah." I take a drink. "Mind if I rest in the stand for a bit?"
>"Sure thing, go on and hop over the counter. It's no cooler in here though."

The counter, with all of its waist high wooden width, looks completely insurmountable. This is ridiculous. I'm taking the armor off. While I do, I make the mistake of looking back to the main passage to Camp Fuschia and regret it instantly. "Is... that an undead, over there?" It's looking my way.
>"Sure is, but it's just minding its business. A crow was hanging around too, surprisingly enough."
"Urgh... nevermind. Does 'Roc Underpass' mean anything to you? I didn't see it on a map, or any sort of greater beast corpse mark on the map for that matter."
>"Roc Underpass, Roc Underpass... that's right at the tip of my tongue. It feels like years, but I know I've heard that before. Nowhere nearby, I can tell you that. I feel I heard the term in camp... 89, I think it was, several miles southeast."

Damn chainmail yanking more fur out, ugh.

"I can pay for a guide, if you all use money."
>"Like, copper? We don't deal in coin as much as you might think. It raises questions with the guards, and we deal in more practical things like meal tickets. Anyway, this is a small camp, I'm the only one who's been around a decent bunch of the mines, everyone else in here has hardly been a step or two away from Camp Fuschia."
>>
No. 978993 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160315783074.png - (84.72KB , 1000x800 , 1508.png )
978993

Chainmail is off. Oh, lords, I can actually breathe now. And I smell disgusting. I feel like that palace guardwork spoiled me. Is that undead... it's just standing there, looking at me. I don't know what to do about that. Having a corpse standing around is already unnerving me, but with the crows... I feel I should do something about that, but I could use rest, too.

I hop the counter, lay down while Daspotta puts the chainmail away, and take another drink. Maybe I'll be lucky and one of these waterskins will be filled with ale or beer or while I'm fantasizing, actual wine.

"Tauvel, I need a guide, badly. You said you've been around the mines a bunch."
>"In the past, but now I'm this village's handler. They voted for me, putting their trust in me."
"Trust?"
>"The handler can screw a lot of people over. A camp needs to trust their handler to function right. Well, we're all tightly knit now, so maybe I'd have a successor, but you're asking a lot of me to just up and leave, you understand? You could find a guide in Camp Fuschia. Why're you back here, anyway?"

I may as well just beg the guy to get my out of here at this rate. I either need to get help or get ready to die. But it's not like he has any reason to follow me. If I were in his position, I wouldn't follow some ragged visitor who looks like he's on the run. It's not like the crows are after him, too.
>>
No. 978994 ID: bb78f2

Ok Roc Under Pass
Bird Pass Under

Ok, you have to go to the crow's roost dude, straight to the objective
>>
No. 978997 ID: e2f5cc

>"Urgh... nevermind. Does 'Roc Underpass' mean anything to you?"
Since you let where you're going slip you should probably tell him everything, since it's not like you have much else to lose.
>>
No. 978998 ID: 77cba3

"Someone is possibly trying to kill me and my friend so they can fuck over the crow noble boss whats his face. That or it' some silly crow politics mess that I accidently got tangled up in. I am honestly not sure what is going on this is all wild guessing."

"Long story short if I don't get to Roc underpass as quickly as possible I will probably die down here. I just want to run back to the surface and pretend I never came down here."
>>
No. 978999 ID: 36784c

>>978993
Don’t ask him to come with you. Just ask if he’s got a map.
>>
No. 979008 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160316270380.png - (216.79KB , 1000x800 , 1509.png )
979008

I told him about Roc Underpass after I decided not to spill that name everywhere I went.

"Someone's trying to kill me. I don't know a lot, but I got on the crow's bad side right when I entered."
>"That's... not a light thing to say. What did you do?"
"Let myself get associated with dangerous people, for starters. Daspotta here is in danger too, for being associated with me. But if I don't get to Roc Underpass, I don't see how I'm going to survive."
>"Never heard of the crows trying to off people. That business isn't mine, you know, but the undead, they're... well that would explain why that undead is coming over here. That's odd."

The undead comes around the corner. It doesn't hop the fence. It just watches me from over the counter. I keep my sword on me, still, and Daspotta looks ready to spring up.

"But they aren't fast or precise. All they can manage to do is mine, really. Never seen them do that, so as long as you don't go right under the crows, you'll be fine."

Roc. A bird. Under pass. Under the birds? No. No, Cheese did not say the crows are trying to kill us, and tell me to go to the crows themselves, in the same letter. But just in case...

"Do you know where the crows live? Like, their home?"
>"Yeah... it's not on the maps, but I know. I guess you're trying to avoid it? It's north of here, up a few levels. There's signs saying forbidden areas, because living aren't supposed to go inside. It's a crow only area, though I guess they let undead in there too."
"Do you have a map?"
>"Sorry, I don't. I don't see what's stopping you from getting a guide and a map in Camp Fuschia, if it's just the crows that - "
>>
No. 979009 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160316271450.png - (195.32KB , 800x800 , 1510.png )
979009

>"Attention Camp 84!" A voice yells out from the Fuschia passage. "Three high priority bounties have been posted by order of Lord Gahki! Be on the lookout for a field kobold with a diamond forehead marking by the name of Moss, a poluputus mountain kobold that is likely with him by the name of Daspotta, and a cave mutant that goes by Cheese! All individuals, be they workers or guards, are to either capture or kill them on sight, or immediately report a sighting to the guards. Failure to do so will be penalized with public execution, and any camps harboring them will result in all of that camp's denizens public execution. Those who give information leading to capture will be given 40 meal tickets to each bounty captured, or 300 meal tickets for each one turned in, dead or alive!"
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No. 979012 ID: 465a14

Even if you run he can report on you, and a corpse or unconscious body also makes it incredibly obvious that you were here. If you want to get out of this situation without someone blowing a whistle, the only logical solution is seduction.

Fuck his ass.
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No. 979014 ID: 1ed92d

>>979009
Welp. Time to start killing.
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No. 979015 ID: e7848c

You never spoke to him. Start running.
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No. 979017 ID: 094652

"Listen to me: I murdered someone important. But if you turn us in, he'll have enough money to buy a silver title, thrice over. Then he'll kill you all so that he can claim he found us all by himself.

Meanwhile, I don't want to murder you with this sword unless I have to. I have a dirt farm for paper purposes out in the country, help me and I'll let you stay there for as long as you want. That's more than he's ever given to all of his slaves, and you know it."
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No. 979018 ID: 1a8428

If they're bothering to shout it, they're not coming in to physically look any time soon. Knock him out, tie him up and get Daspotta to drag him along with you so that later you can force him to give you directions. Also it'll mean not having to kill him. Maybe if when they find him he looks a bit beat up and is tied and gagged, they'll go easy on him. Or since you have absolutely no reason to spare Gahki any more, you'll find some way to blow this whole thing open and no-one will have time for punishments of small-time miners anyway.
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No. 979019 ID: b1b4f3

>>979018
Yeah this is the morally clean option that isn't just putting your life in his hands.
Of course, if he immediately starts running into the passage to report on you, you gotta try to kill him.
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No. 979021 ID: bb78f2

>>979009
Feel free to report me. Please lets leave it at that. Thank you for the help. I'm sorry for the inconvenience...

Wait... if we strip nude... could we blend in as a worker? We just need to disguise the diamond somehow. Can we POSSIBLY shave ourselves completely furless? Is that a field kobold look a slave or guard might take?

If we can kill that undead... maybe? The undead aren't people, like right? No one cares if you hurt them and take their bonds as a disguise.
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No. 979023 ID: 5fc3a0
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979023

There's a long silence as the both of us must be formulating thoughts. Except Daspotta, I don't expect her to jump in. I consider letting him just report me, but... it does not take long for a runner to get to Fuschia. I'd have guards swarming this place in minutes.

I start getting up, sword in hand. He takes that unsurprisingly defensively, but he doesn't jump back. The undead has no reaction.

>"Whoa hold - wait - not here! Let me explain something very carefully." He breathes deeply. "Bounties made by Lord Gahki himself are rare, but they leave a trail of corpses. I'm... I'm already screwed. Even if you didn't kill me, if the guards found out that you were here and got away from us, they'll kill us all."
"And if you report to the guards?"
>"I don't... I don't want to do that, Moss. For the reason I mentioned about trails of corpses, no one is enthusiastic to help his bounties. So I wouldn't kill you if I could, but you don't need to believe me. All I'm asking... if you kill me, please don't do it here. If my corpse is here, it's a sign you were here, too, and again... the whole camp'll get killed. They just don't deserve that. You gain nothing for that. I don't - "
"Shut up, Tauvel, listen. I'm not going to kill you. I've already murdered someone important, but I would rather just die now than kill every innocent worker that has the bad fortune of looking at me. How about I just beat you up and tie you up elsewhere?"
>"That's... very considerate of you, but no. As the stories and rumors go, no matter how hard you tried, a failure to report immediately or capture is punished by death, whether willingly or not. I don't know how to get out of this - wait, you needed a guide?"
"I do."
>"I think I just got a good reason to leave. The workers are not friends of Lord Gahki. I would rather help you than him."
"Then while we're talking, tell me, would we blend in as workers if we wore less, and I hid this forehead mark?" I wonder about shaving, but the only blade sharp enough on me is my sword.
>"You'd have to find yourselves some collars."
"Like the one on this undead?"
>"That... yes, actually. I don't know, harming undead is a bad crime, even if there's no soul inside, there's something distasteful, but... I wouldn't hold it against you if you did that. It's only one collar, though."
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No. 979024 ID: 1a8428

The lights are dim down here. If you just tied your belt around your neck, it'd pass for a collar, and you can't wear your sword openly anyway. You'll to find a way to hide it in a bundle, pretending to be tools or something.
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No. 979027 ID: b1b4f3

>>979023
Okay, for this plan to work, the crow can't see you. They're smart enough to see through a collar disguise.
Also if you get the collar off the undead by killing it, that leaves behind evidence that you were here, which is exactly what we're trying to avoid.

So basically you just need to avoid being spotted while you leave the camp. Once outside the camp you can see about stealing collars from undead.
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No. 979029 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160316971658.png - (103.50KB , 800x800 , 1512.png )
979029

"Come on, then. Think if I tied my belt around my neck, it would pass in this low light?"
>"That's a big risk, but better than nothing."

He gestures for us to follow him out the back. He looks back at the camp once.

>"Sorry. I would think to leave a note for the rest, but... it's best I don't. Here's a clump of dirt. Pour some water over it, rub your forehead some until we can't tell where your diamond ends and the mud starts. I'll gather up some torches and water."
"What destination do you have in mind?" I ask while getting mud on my face.
>"Well, that's partially on what sounds good for you. First off, I've got to ask why did you want to go to Roc Underpass?"
"To meet with someone, and it's the only lead I have."
>"Maybe we'll find someone who can help, but the first thing we need is safety. The safest places are where guards don't like to be, and that means hot places."
"Of course it is."
>"You understand, then." He completely missed the tone of my 'of course'. "But how hot can you stand? The more you can tolerate, the better."

I feel I can tolerate it better now, but if we really go that much deeper, my armor will be dead weight.

I almost forgot about the undead, but it's following me. I can just lead it away and kill it outside of camp while I think about Tauvel's question about my heat tolerance.
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No. 979031 ID: 25f3ec

Armor's also useless if you get swarmed by guards. Get a big supply of water.
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No. 979033 ID: b1b4f3

>>979029
Well, you'll be able to tolerate the heat better if you cut off some of your fur. Or, a lot of it.

Ask Daspotta for help doing it and ask if she has any ideas for the collar disguise or input in general, plus make sure she's been drinking water.
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No. 979042 ID: b1b4f3

Wait wait, how are we going to put the collar on? We'd have to unlock it or break it open. We don't have the key and I don't think anyone here can pick locks, so we'd have to break it... but we don't have any tools to do that quickly and it will definitely not be quiet.
If anyone CAN pick locks then we don't have to kill the undead.
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No. 979043 ID: 4753af

Kill the undead out of sight, hide it’s corpse the best you can and take the collar. Give Daspotta the belt to wear as an imitation collar, it should be fine in the dark. Tell Tauvel you’ll tolerate heat okay without your armor. I’m against shaving any fur off, that stuff retains sweat and will help to keep you cool more than bare skin.
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No. 979055 ID: 77cba3

See if you can kill the undead out of sight in a way that will not implicate this camp. Like bashing it with a rock instead of slitting a throat.

"This is the first time I have ever been in heat like this. I managed to run from the outpost back here but you saw the condition I was in. I am in good shape but will need a lot of water and salt if this keeps up."
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No. 979061 ID: ce39da

"Is Outpost 89 in the direction of down? If so, we're heading in that general direction."
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No. 979081 ID: 5fc3a0
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979081

I need my belt to carry all these waterskins right now, so Daspotta or I wearing it as a collar isn't currently an option. I'll need to abandon most of my equipment if I'm to blend in, but I'd like to find a safe hole I can find again first in order to hide it. I'm not simply abandoning things like my sword and what little money I have left.

"I'm going to need a lot of water if I go deep."
>"Don't forget food, too. You lose more than just water in the heat."
"I'll need food anyway. Hm... If I had the right kind of blade, I could shave."
>"Eh... you'd think so wouldn't you? But it turns out that bald fuzzies don't do much better in the heat than ones who keep the coat. 'course, that would help with the forehead mark, so maybe it's worth testing that later."
"Really? I'll take your word for that, not that I'd look forward to shaving. Wait a second, how are we supposed to get a collar off? Can you lockpick?"
>"Oh, dang it, I didn't think about that. They're not locked. They're welded shut. Doesn't matter, we can find a blacksmith. Having a collar for them to work with makes it easier, though we might not need to kill undead if we melt our tools down for you to. Then we wouldn't have tools, though... hrm." So he says, but I'm still short on breath. That was too short a rest, and I'm just not up to outrunning the dead anymore. "Ah, I almost forgot! We need tools, especially if you two aim to blend in with workers."
"If your camp won't get punished for missing them, anyway."
>"Nah. Don't tell anyone, but I always make sure our camp has a few extra spare supplies off the record, just in case. Well, in case one of our good workers lost their tool and needed to get back to work. I couldn't have planned for this exact thing. Let's just get away from here first."
"Agreed."

We begin pacing away from camp.

"Daspotta, have you been drinking water?"
>"Yes sir, since we have a lot now."
"Good. Do you have any ideas or input?"
>"Hmm... I do not, but I'll think as we travel."
"Good. Tauvel, you said there was a camp... some other camp where you might've heard of Roc Underpass?"
>"Yes, but that's a popular place with the guards. You know I can't stop you if you want to go there first, but I appreciate you not killing me, whether it's by stabbing me here or having us walk right into guards who just heard the bounty."
"Yeah, yeah."

We travel a ways maybe a half hour of a walk through small passages. We go up and down, there doesn't seem to be any evidence that these miners had any will to mine straight.

>"Watch your step up here, some collapsed hole came through here."
"Wait. That's perfect. Daspotta, hold my torch."

Maybe it's unnecessary, but I'd like to be able to bury the undead body just so it's not so obvious that I've stolen a collar or killed an undead. I've been making sure it's been following us, and sure enough, it turns the corner just so it can see me. I drop the tools on my back and go back to the body.
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No. 979082 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160321026543.png - (210.12KB , 1000x800 , 1514.png )
979082

I take a stance as though it were going to spring into action to attack me at any point.

As creepy as this thing is, it lets me approach. Can I even kill undead? I stab it anyway.

>"QUAWWWWWWWW!"

What? The body didn't make a reaction, but a crow squawked the instant I stabbed it! Is it calling for help?

There was an odd flash of mana too. Only for a second, but enough that I could detect some mana in the air.
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No. 979083 ID: 5fc3a0
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979083

The body collapses. I take the torch back and carefully step past the body to go to where I heard the squawk, just a ways back from where we came.

There is a crow, here, like it was following us from farther back.

And it's... dead.
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No. 979084 ID: 465a14

Crows hijacking undead, I guess. Must be why people don't think messing with undead is a good idea. Fuck them, murder more.
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No. 979085 ID: 77cba3

Looks like the crows can puppet bodies around? But looks like the link is a two way thing.

Run over quickly and make sure its dead. The feedback from the corpse "dying" might have only stunned or knocked it out. Then dump it in the pit with the corpse.

Don't touch it with your hands though.
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No. 979086 ID: 1a8428

Check it's really dead. If it isn't, take it with you, if it is, bury it as well.
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No. 979090 ID: 3347f3

>>979083
Could it be that the crows are directly connected to the undead? That might be why they're opposing Fen. Killing the undead kills them.
At least if this is true, its info you can use.
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No. 979095 ID: 855b59

What the fuck are they doing here with the undead? I didn't knew that you could link yourself with a undead like that. I mean, sure, control them and see and talk through them, but get killed? That is new. I didn't knew that Crows could do that either. Those things are scary.

Well, check the "dead" Crow, make sure it is actually dead.
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No. 979097 ID: 70d854

>>979083
Well, that does clear up a few things.
Lets not antagonize the crows more than we already have; assume for now it's Cheese they're upset with, and be willing to try and communicate with them if given the chance. There are enough targets on you back already.
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No. 979099 ID: b1b4f3

Wanna bet they know *exactly* where that happened? Tell your guide to change direction.
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No. 979103 ID: bb78f2

>>979083
The crows are liches
They're using the dead bodies as phylacteries
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No. 979110 ID: 384cff

...It's possible Gahki has the crows as slaves. He ties their lives to a corpse, kills the corpse if they get uppity. It may also be of their free will. Either way, this is very messed up.
So, this is why the crows desired pickaxes. They work here.

Also, behead corpse, get collar.
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No. 979112 ID: 8fab7a

Hm. Experiment gone wrong? A way to control the crows? Or might the crows have learned necromancy from spying on Sir Gahki and done their own thing to the undead workers here?

Or perhaps this was always what they were - semi-spirits bound to the bodies of dead kobolds.

You definitely don't have enough information to go on here, but I'd say you've probably made yourself even more of an enemy of the crows. Unless this isn't as bad as it looks. If crows are actually undead spirits of sorts, maybe they can just... re-inhabit a crow body or something?

Anyway! Slave collar for you. And check on the crow body, if it's got a pulse or whatnot.

Hm. Take the crow body with you. Tie it up with a bit of rope.
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No. 979113 ID: b1b4f3

...maybe the crows were always necromantic in nature. Yank the spirit out of a kobold, put it in a crow. You get a capable spy and a tireless worker in one package.
I wonder if that's what this one was following you for in the first place. To provoke you into killing the body to reveal the secret.
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No. 979118 ID: 1ed92d

>>979083
It seems the Crows have necromantic powers. Fascinating.

More for later. Now you know you can kill them. Bury the crow too. The other crows might know that he died and what he was doing, but they might not be able to navigate to where he is.
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No. 979119 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160323084818.png - (109.92KB , 800x800 , 1516.png )
979119

"Daspotta, shovel."

I pick the crow up with it. It's not breathing.

>"Tauvel... can the crows link with the dead and puppet them?"
"I've never heard of this. This explains why killing undead is such a crime, if it kills crows, too. Sorry, I'm being a guide for my life, but I've never done any nasty business like this."
>"Let's change direction. I'm afraid the crows might know where this happened."

Maybe. There's still a ton of unknowns. Even if the undead were set up to be puppeted, it would need a wizard to activate the puppet strings or whatever, which means this crow was a wizard. And animals, like crows, shouldn't be capable of magic. No animals should. A direct, immutable link to the undead somehow makes more sense than crow wizards. Not like I'm an expert on magic. Plus, I could only imagine why in the world a wizard would tie a crow to a dead body. It can't be easier than just raising the dead on their own, can it?

If kobold souls were tied the crows? Then... well that's insane. But it makes more sense than crow wizards! Then they'd have an intelligent crow spy and a tireless, if sluggish, worker. Enough on that, I don't have enough information, and even if I did I wouldn't know how to use it!

I cut the head off the body to take the collar, and throw the crow in the hole as well since I don't want to be carrying a dead crow on me, or leave it here. We quickly shovel all the loose dirt we can find, but it's mostly just large rock fragments we have to pick up and toss inside.

"Don't worry about our direction." Tauvel says. "It's a winding pass to where I've got in mind, and we've got a long ways to go. I think it's a good spot. Undead shouldn't have any reason to go there, and the people there are definitely no friends of the empire and thus no friends of Lord Gahki or his orders."
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No. 979120 ID: 5fc3a0
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979120

We begin walking again. I feel like I'm starving, but it's got to wait. I haven't seen anyone but us three, and the sounds of activity have died off. It's just an ambient hum coming through this mine. I seriously hope we brought enough torch fuel. We haven't seen anyone else, maybe because by now, it must be in the middle of the night. I'd be drowsy, but a mix of fear and haste staves off much of that.

It must be hours. Slowly, we start heading down more than up. It's hot again, and I nearly gag just thinking about wearing my armor in this. The bright side is that I'm having so much water, my load is getting lighter. We must have covered lots of ground, but we don't make a straight line, and the constant slopes slow down our pace on top of that.
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No. 979121 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160323089142.png - (276.55KB , 800x800 , 1518.png )
979121

A thunderous boom interrupts my thoughts. My feet slip out right from under me, and my heart stops as I start seeing the walls collapsing. I catch myself and brace for all the good it'll do, but nothing happens. The vibrations slowly go away. The walls are still in place. I must've just thought they were coming down on me when my vision tumbled with the rest of my head.

Daspotta's on the ground too, barely catching herself from tumbling down the slope.

"Tauvel?" I ask. He's still upright, holding onto the wall. "What was that?"
>"An earthquake? Oh, you'd better get used to those. All the rock above us is pushing down on these tunnels, and all the mining we do makes the rock want to re-settle. I chose these tunnels because I know the people who made these supports aren't the type to do a crummy job. We'll be relying on the work they've done here to keep the rocks from falling on our heads."
>"I thought we were going to safety?" Daspotta asks.
>"It's safer than with the guards. Remember, my life is with you guys now. I share the danger."

Earthquakes, heat.... the crows, the guards, and the mine itself are trying to kill Daspotta and me. I'm going to have to sleep with one eye open just in case Tauvel isn't as genuine as I hope he is.

Daspotta starts getting up.

>"Sir, what's wrong, are you hurt?"
"N-no."

I'm terrified and my legs won't move, that's all. Daspotta is surprisingly calm about all this.
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No. 979122 ID: 5fc3a0
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979122

The embarrassment of the two of them standing over me eventually outweighs the terror, and I get up. We continue on, and every odd shake or tremor makes my body lock up.

>"I think this is it." Tauvel finally says, another hour later.
"This is a camp?" The ceiling is low, and I have to hunch over a bit.
>"Down here there are very few natural caverns. Most camps this low are just mineshafts that got mined out a bit more to be homely."

It smells dank among other things, but there's decent food cooking, too. Tauvel leads us forward, and I make sure my sword is on me while I put my torch out.

>"Hello - oh, Jafill!" Tauvel speaks as we approach a campfire.
>"Is that you, Tauvel? I was wondering who was approaching. What are you doing here at such an early hour? Who are these two? More newcomers?"

I get a flashback. During the first week in Krix's dungeon, a nasty bandit group was brought in. Many of them were sold to someone who I heard liked making examples out of caught bandits. One of them had a brother who wasn't part of the trade. He begged and pleaded with me to either save her, let him trade places with her, or kill her. Kill his own sister, because he thought even death was better. I couldn't do anything, but that didn't matter to him. He was further separated a couple of weeks later by being sent here, instead of where his sister went. After he was gone, he was just became one of the prisoners I remembered better than others, and none of the memorable prisoners left good memories.

Now he's right in front of me, glaring at the ground, without any iron bars between us.

And I just remembered that the rest of the bandits were sent here with him, too.
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No. 979123 ID: 465a14

>being afraid of earthquakes
lmao

Anyway you know the spiel, you don't have enough violence to murder them all and you've got nowhere to run, yadda yadda seduce them.
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No. 979124 ID: 77cba3

Don't bring up your past and don't ask about his.

If he does not start shit we won't.

You are a camp guard turned messanger if anyone asks.
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No. 979125 ID: b1b4f3

>>979122
Yeah, well, you've seen how things work here. Doesn't look like death is better after all. They're not being regularly abused or worked to death, it's just hard labor that they have to do in order to get food and drink. ...unless you meant his sister got sent to a different place?

Anyway, don't bring it up. Avoid speaking near him if you can, and if you do, consider taking on a false voice and a false name.
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No. 979126 ID: b1b4f3

I actually think we *could* murder all the bandits turned slaves but our new guide might not appreciate it.
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No. 979128 ID: 855b59

>Daspotta is surprisingly calm about all this.
A mountain kobold thing? Besides, they must know that the marshal title comes with near death experiences. I bet that Fen would like her.

>Now he's right in front of me, glaring at the ground, without any iron bars between us.
Suck it up, you were doing your job. If this one is cool, great, good for both of you. If not, he better don't do something stupid. The same goes for the rest.
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No. 979129 ID: 1ed92d

>>979122
Don't say shit. Speak when spoken to.
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No. 979132 ID: 8fab7a

Your luck is just... phenomenal. Bah. We've established by now you're a poor / terrible liar. If they recognize you, they recognize you, and you were a cog in a borked system, so just let on that fact and the fact you fucking hated it.

And you don't exactly have a lot of choice here. They can already recognize you're not a regular slave by all the shit you and Daspotta are carrying (and y'know, the lack of collars). So you need to let some on, and let them know some stakes are as well. Tauvel's giving you some help, so lean on him if you can and explain the bare details.

>More newcomers?
"We're the newest bounties of the depths. This is the shit: The crows are muddled up in some noble's plot and want us and a mutant associate dead for poking into it and have incited Gahki into helping, despite the considerable blackmail we pulled to get down here in the first place. I need to look like a slave, fast, and blend in while getting to someplace called Roc Underpass."

Draw your blade if the ex-prisoner gets up, acts threateningly or lunges at you. Hopefully that'll be enough to keep him at bay.

"Anyway, Tauvel, I also meant to ask. What would happen to the people in the mines if Sir Gahki suddenly up and died? Is the supply chain solid?"
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No. 979134 ID: 6c122f

Well, they're prisoners, and not likely to choose to stay here if offered a way to escape.

So, try not to get recognized, first. You were a clean guard in armor, behind bars, etc. You're now nearly naked, caked with mud, and in a place where they clearly don't expect you to be. That might be enough not to be recognized.

Of course, if they knew your name, and heard it as part of the bounty announcement, it might help them realize...

So, first, try and stay incognito. But, if they DO recognize you, then offer them a better deal than reporting you. Offer them freedom. After all, what do they have to gain if they betray you ? A few meals, and not dying here immediately ? But they have no prospect of liberation, so it's a life sentence here, anyway... I'm pretty sure a chance at getting out would appeal to most of them.
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No. 979136 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160324370907.png - (196.70KB , 800x800 , 1520.png )
979136

I let Tauvel speak for us.

>"This is Moss and Daspotta, they've recently come down here. They seem to have come down as visitors, but since we don't exactly get visitors, they're likely here to stay."

The ex-prisoner looks up.

"We're new to these depths, stuck in some plot or another. I need to blend in with workers."
>"Those are guard clothes!" The ex-prisoner bolts up. "What the fuck's mud muzzle doing here?!"
>"Calm down." Jafill says to him, "What is this about?"
>"He's the one that let Pia get sold to that monster!"
>"Sit. Down. I told you, your baggage is left on the surface. It's gone."

I hear some commotion behind me. I don't bare my sword yet, but my hand hovers on the hilt.

>"Fuck off!" He's not calming down. "Hey, everyone, mud muzzle's here, remember him?!"
"I am no longer a guard, and it was a shit job. What ha - "
>"You got excuses now?!"

Jafill starts yelling at him to calm down, but it's not happening.
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No. 979137 ID: 465a14

If it doesn't look like anyone else is going to take his side or take action just let him scream himself out.
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No. 979138 ID: 77cba3

"I did not let anyone get sold. I was only a guard with no pull and no favors to call in. I could not help you or any of the other prisoners at the time. I did my job and never abused any of you or tried to make your life more miserable. I am not your enemy."

Keep your hand on your sword and your eyes watching. Maybe we can talk him down but be ready to kill him if he goes for you.
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No. 979139 ID: b1b4f3

>>979136
...you need another collar.

Tell him if he wants a duel, you'll duel him. And it'll be fair; you won't use your sword, unless he has a comparable weapon.
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No. 979140 ID: b1b4f3

Weird, why does he blame you specifically though?
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No. 979141 ID: 094652

"And my wife divorced me for it! I spent years undercover so I could arrest that @#$%ing slaver, and it all amounted to dirt because Lord Krix said 'I hereby declare him untouchable'! Now he's dead, and I'm going after Krix. This doesn't end until the top of the food chain is uncuffed. You can hate me all you want - hell, I hate my own sidekick for selling my family to a pyromaniac, but we're ALL making sacrifices today. Got it?!"
>>
No. 979142 ID: e2f5cc

If the situation doesn't worsen, just do nothing, and I mean literally nothing, not a single word or movement. Best case scenario he'll burn himself out quickly with nothing to vindicate his anger. If he begins purposely walking towards you though, make an obvious show of drawing your weapon, so that you have it out without possibly triggering his fight or flight as well. From there tell him "Don't come any closer." and nothing else, no apologies or saying you don't want to hurt him, just make space and keep to the holding pattern.
>>
No. 979144 ID: 36784c

>>979139
>duel
I don’t think he’s going to agree to a duel.

>>979142
This seems like the appropriate thing to do in this situation.
>>
No. 979145 ID: b970b2

Tell him you couldn't do shit, and all it got you was a death sentence of a marshal job where you get to piss off nobles to stroke Krix' ego. As it stands that monster is a dead man walking now. Basically try to deemphasising yourself in their fate, and emphasising how much you dislike Krix and Gahki. Hopefully that will at least knock the momentum from their anger, but worst comes to worst, you're willing to murder, or threaten to, everyone in your way to get out of here or die trying, right?

IDK how to pivot into something more productive, I'd suggest trying to get them to tag along with that but I'm very wary of trying to pick additional people up before you even have a plan, and especially not people who could easily back stab you for the bounty. We need to defuse the situation and continue on to find Cheese, she's got the plan, you've got the murder.
>>
No. 979150 ID: bb78f2

>>979136
I make no excuses for being passive. I am interested in what you would have done in my position, given that the consequences for acting on compassion as a guard is punished severely, resulting in death, similar imprisonment or enslavement.

I know you don't care if you would have done the same, you're just mad and want something to hit. I get it. I'd want it too.

I have a weapon and training, you have numbers, I don't like my odds, but they're not nothing. Before acting on your anger, think about your responsibility to your local community first, at least.
>>
No. 979151 ID: bb78f2

Oh, one other card you can draw

He's an ex-bandit, he's hurt people, maybe even enslaved people (probably not). One of the people he or his bandit group have hurt in the past may already be here, as a part of the community. I gotta ask, did they try and kill him? If victim from his past DOES show up, does that slave have the right to try and kill him?

Moss was part of an institution, his employment implies complicity in the system that harmed the ex-prisonor and Pia, we have to accept partial responsibility for that. But this motherfucker doesn't exist in a vacuum where only him and Moss matter.
>>
No. 979152 ID: b1b4f3

>>979144
He will if it's the only way to get Moss's sword away from him.
>>
No. 979154 ID: 36784c

>>979152
Losing our sword in a place that’s full of undead and hostile guards is not a good idea! We’re keeping our sword with us at all times!
>>
No. 979155 ID: b1b4f3

>>979154
What? Do you think a duel will last long enough that we'll have to worry about hostile guards that don't know where we are and undead that don't even attack?
>>
No. 979162 ID: 855b59

"I was not the one you should be screaming at and you know it. There was nothing I could have done. You are going to give me shit for it? For doing my job? Why the fuck were you imprisoned in the first place? You are going to blame me for that too? I got fucked over by Krix and and the rest of the other shitty nobles too. I have my own people to protect.
So I tell you what are we going to do: you are going to chill the fuck down, or I'll make you."
>>
No. 979172 ID: cb5c07

>>979136
Ask him how many he killed as a bandit and whether he ever gave a shit about what happened to the people and the families of the people he robbed.

Ask with a drawn sword.

He had his reasons. You had yours. Does it matter, down here?
>>
No. 979185 ID: a9af05

>>979139
You somehow expect him to fight fairly? He won't. Him and his buddies will gang up on Moss and having our sword will help fight them off if they turn hostile.

A duel is an unnecessary risk that we don't need right now, so let's not do that.
>>
No. 979187 ID: 63bf07

>>979185
Escalating is a sure-fire way to turn everyone present hostile. If he comes alone with fists, we greet him with fists. If he arms himself or gangs up immediately, that's another story.
>>
No. 979197 ID: b1b4f3

>>979185
I don't expect him to fight fairly, but I dunno if his buddies are going to help, considering they think he should leave his baggage on the surface. Also there's only one other kobold here.
>>
No. 979199 ID: 8fab7a

>>979172
Ah, y'know, escalation's a point. Hold off on the sword for now, maybe hand it to Daspotta for safekeeping so the fucker can't steal it if you scuffle. Get yourself ready to fight back or restrain his stupid ass - he's waiting for backup, if you can provoke him or set him off before he gets it, that might be to your advantage.

... you've got this, don't you? This should be familiar ground. How long haven't you been a post town guard, dealing with the drunk, the stupid, the angry or any combination thereof? You can knock some sense into a skinny dude off his rocker on misplaced fury. You can make enough of an example out of him that his arriving buddies won't want to play the ol' blame-Moss-for-your-misfortunes game.
>>
No. 979201 ID: 05b21f

>>979199 this is good
No duels or fair fights. You were a guard, he’s a lowlife who’s causing trouble.

Get his attention and stop him from talking. Tell him we either settle this now or knock some sense into him. This should be you’re element, dealing with small angry people. If you have the chance, tell him that there’s nothing you could’ve done for his sister. Also please don’t mention Krix or why you got a job as prison guard. They don't care and it gives away too much about yourself.
>>
No. 979202 ID: 05b21f

>>979199 this is good
No duels or fair fights. You were a guard, he’s a lowlife who’s causing trouble.

Get his attention and stop him from talking. Tell him we either settle this now or knock some sense into him. This should be you’re element, dealing with small angry people. If you have the chance, tell him that there’s nothing you could’ve done for his sister. Also please don’t mention Krix or why you got a job as prison guard. They don't care and it gives away too much about yourself.
>>
No. 979207 ID: 919e82

He and his friends were already notorious criminals before you met and before he got sent here. Chances of him being reasonable are slim to none.

Finding Cheese and getting the three of you out of there is the only thing that matters.

Kill him/them. The chances of them getting you in your sleep or running off to find a guard is way too high.
>>
No. 979216 ID: 2e15a9

Lay him out.
"don't interrupt me."
>>
No. 979279 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160339190492.png - (343.57KB , 1000x800 , 1521.png )
979279

>"If you want to make excuses for not doing anything, then throw yourself on the ground in front of all of us and beg for forgiveness!"
"And get myself killed, just to defend for a bunch of bandits who didn't care about the families they killed when they burned down random farming villages?"
>"They were all working to line the pockets of Shyla, they didn't deserve life!"

Shyla, I remember now, was the noble who this person's sister was sold to. I made the mistake of listening to his woes, so he remembers me best, therefore hates me most. It's not reasonable, but palace prisoners got the sense beat out of them.

A duel crosses my mind, but it won't be fair and I'm not confident. I'm certain he's hiding a knife under his loincloth, and he just called for backup. And as much as I want to lay him out right now, fights don't always go as planned, especially when I just finished an overnight march through unbearable heat. If I got layed out instead, and his group outnumbered us, then I'll be at the mercy of the prisoners that shouted all the awful things they'd do to me given the chance.

Just when I think to step forward, Jafill leaps right over the fire to get between us.

>"You two know the rules, down here! Workers do not attack other workers! Anyone who does that in front of me is getting sent into a whipping cage for a week, you both hear me?"
>"What's going on over there, Roiff?" I hear from behind me, reminding me that Roiff was this ex-prisoner's name.
>"Mudmuzzle's here, so get over here with us before he draws his sword on me!" Roiff responds. "I'm not attacking him, Jafill, see?!" He holds his hands up dramatically.

I'm certain that Roiff is going to attack me the second he believe he has the numbers to win. He still has the mentality of a prisoner, so threats of whips do nothing for him. He'd smile while getting flayed alive if it meant battering me first!

But if Jafill is serious with that threat, me making the first move will get me in even deeper shit now.
>>
No. 979280 ID: 465a14

Ask him why he's so interested in getting his hands on you, did he get a crush on you? Does he have a weird BDSM kink going on? Is he still fantasizing about whatever other juvenile taunts you can come up with to bait him into fucking up?
>>
No. 979282 ID: e2f5cc

"Look, Roiff. I know you're planning on jumping me when you get the numbers, you aren't good at hiding it. But just think for a moment, whose gonna the be the one to start the fight? You. So whose gonna be one closest to my sword? You. You might kill me, yeah, but think about your sister. How would she feel hearing the brother who loved her more than anything died needlessly?"

Bring up the fact the crows and Gahki are in insanely deep shit as well and that he might be able to escape in the chaos that'll ensue after the reveal, but only if you're allowed to get out of here, since only you know it. Don't give the slightest inkling as to why unless absolutely necessary, since he might think he can "carry on the message" or some shit.
>>
No. 979283 ID: 77cba3

Reposition yourself so that this guy and his friend behind you are both in front of you before doing anything else.

I think we need to kill him and his friend behind you fast. So far he has just called you mudmuzzle but as soon as official word gets over here about your bounty he is going to start remembering your real name. Then there will be someone who can cry to the guards about Tauvel helping you and the direction you went.

Even if we can intimidate him down that will only last as long as we are in view. After that we could have him following us or selling us out.


Long story short: Leaving him alive will result in Tauvel and his camp getting killed and allow you to get tracked faster.


My suggestion is to say to Jafill "Some of us are not workers but guest nobles." Then kill Roiff with your sword. Be careful if you are aiming near the neck due to the possibility of the collar blocking or hurting your blade. Then spin and finish off his friend. It's not ideal I admit.
>>
No. 979284 ID: fa2754

Sit back down with your hand on your sword hilt. We're all going to die unless we figure out a plan here.
>>
No. 979286 ID: b1b4f3

You're Field Marshall, not a worker. Stab his ass.
It's either that or duel him and make sure it's a fair fight by searching him beforehand.
>>
No. 979287 ID: 1ed92d

>>979279
Insult his sister and provoke him into attacking you first so you can kill him.
>>
No. 979290 ID: 919e82

You're not a worker and the guards showing up mean your death.

Kill whoever you need to kill to get out of here. Daspotta will back you up, she kind of has to.
>>
No. 979294 ID: 36784c

>>979279
Insult his sister. Say whatever you need to say in order to get him to attack you first.
>>
No. 979295 ID: bb78f2

>>979279
I don't plan on making any moves either.
Think of your community's behalf first before planning anything, Roiff. You and your boys ain't alone anymore. You can't act without affecting the whole. You may as well as try and escape if you're going to tell them to go fuck themselves like this. At least you'd die free, and consistent with your integrity intact.

I hate bullshit punks like you who don't care who they hurt in the process. No sense of fellowship or decency. You'd probably would have traded your own sister to her slaver again if it meant you could beat my ass, right now, huh? You only gave a shit about her when you asked me to kill her instead of letting her get sold. Otherwise you would have kept her out of your life and your crimes.
>>
No. 979296 ID: 8fab7a

>Kill murder slay
No. You need information and help to get out of here. If you are the voice of reason, that gives you some credit.

You need to figure out some way to deal with this fool that isn't killing him so you can get aid from the other, more reasonable, slaves. Killing people - or everyone - is just gonna make a mess, leave even more tracks, and should be the last thing on your list of things to attempt right now.

Hm. Oh. This has an easy solution. Delegate. Let others do work for you. You're the problem. Remove the problem. Walk away.

To somewhere more defensible nearby, obviously. Tell Tauvel to do his thing while you and Daspotta hold down the fort.

"Jafill, Roiff is an idiot and the moment his friends get here, they'll probably do something idiotic. I'm going to head down this path. If he and his friends follow me, I cannot guarantee their safety, because all kinds of shit happens in the mines. Fair?"

Start backing away, and glance over at Tauvel.

"Meanwhile, Tauvel will speak with you regarding what we need and then he'd come better join me, lest I come back. And if they attack you and Tauvel over the opportunity to go attack me over petty revenge, more the fool they."
>>
No. 979298 ID: 63bf07

>>979294 >>979287
Don't insult his sister, that would be going far enough to risk Jafill considering it "fighting words"

Insulting his handling of the situation however, like insinuating it's his fault, could still goad him while staying on Jafill's good side.
>>
No. 979305 ID: 7f1230

>>979279
Maybe you can leverage the fact you are a Field Marshall, who gets to judge and kill nobles, and you could go after Shyla, but only if you live. Although I don't know how good of an idea revealing this information would be.
>>
No. 979306 ID: 9182b4

Field marshal doesn't mean shit down here. We should try to stay civil as much as possible. Mentally prep for hand-to-hand combat, but don't draw your sword. Try to treat them as equals here. Don't lord over them, but don't be submissive either or you will just get turned in.
>>
No. 979308 ID: b1b4f3

>>979306
You missed the point of >>979305

The point is Moss can say "hey I can kill that shitty noble that got your sister" and mean it.
>>
No. 979311 ID: b1b4f3

In fact, I'm switching my vote to that. If the bandits think Moss can take out the shitty noble they hate, then they'll be on his side.
>>
No. 979317 ID: 9182b4

>>979308
>>979311
Issue is that being a field marshal doesn't mean shit up there either. Not really, anyway. Plus, the field marshal is an antiquated position, given what the bandits know, moss would seem to be feeding them bullshit.
>>
No. 979319 ID: 855b59

For fucks sake, we don't have time for this. Can't we just go? Fuck him and whoever he is with him, let's just go.
>>
No. 979336 ID: 6c122f

I had suggested offering to help them escape. Now, I see other suggestions using the Field Marshall angle. Those are good too.

In my opinion, Moss should use diplomacy, here. First, because if they WANT to kill him, despite losses (fanatical mindset), they will. He cannot win against huge numbers. Also, they can refuse to fight, and merely track him while others run to tattle. And moss cannot be on the move H/24, he needs to rest, while numerous enemies can take turns harrying him.

So, he needs DIPLOMACY. He needs to convince them that he is worth more to them alive than dead. Killing him would be satisfying for them, sure, but he wasn't the culprit, at most a cog in a large machine of oppression. It doesn't even matter what they did to get sent to jail. They want revenge ? Sure, let them take that revenge to the nobles who really harmed them.

You might mention that you killed a noble before. It might show them that you're not what you were anymore.

You might tell them that you intend to see Krix dead, one way or another.

Just do whatever you can to get them to work WITH you instead of AGAINST you.
>>
No. 979346 ID: b1b4f3

>>979317
It does. That's why they get assassinated.
>>
No. 979350 ID: bb78f2

You know what, we can vaguely make a deal with the guy I suppose. There's not a lot of harm to it if we're vague. It will lack credibility, but he MAY bite on anything if he's desperate. It's worth a shot.

Just say that you're in a better position than before to help you sister out and will do what it takes to get her out of the hell hole she's in if he helps you out while your here. I know there's animosity between us, and that I'm being vague about what I'm here for and what I'm doing for a living right now, but if I can LIVE long enough, I will promise you that I'll try. I'll probably die in the process but shit, my chances of death are already 99% at all times, what's .01% more by taking that debt on? It's practically a free promise. You could take on MANY debts, they barely matter since you'll probably never be able to pay them back!
>>
No. 979472 ID: 15a025

>>979350
Agreeing with this plan here. We technically are in a better position to get his sister free than before.
>>
No. 980446 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160470865307.png - (113.89KB , 800x800 , 1522.png )
980446

My hand's grip tightens. I need to think about what to say, but every word that comes to mind is poison to this guy's ears because it comes from me. Maybe I need to kill them. With that thought coming in mind, I suddenly feel exhausted. The heavy water I'm lugging is making my knees ready to give out. I can't even set them down out of fear that I'll have to run and leave them behind.

I reposition myself to get to the opposite wall, and there are people coming out from that tunnel that was behind Roiff.
>>
No. 980447 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160470866764.png - (300.41KB , 1200x800 , 1523.png )
980447

And there's yet another tunnel, now to my right, where two more are coming! I don't make eye contact, but I sure don't dare to look at the ground. It's hard to tell if they're prisoners when they aren't behind bars and in the darkness, yet they have that look.

I can't make a mental map of this place when the tunnels are winding all over!

Can I even take these guys if they all pull knives on me? Are they all still fanatical prisoners? They should have some sense by now! Roiff's a tough one to convince, but if I convince everyone else I'm not their enemy, then...

My throat feels tight.

"I'm leaving." The words come out before the idea even fully forms in my head.
>>
No. 980448 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160470869240.png - (181.33KB , 800x800 , 1524.png )
980448

"Come on Daspotta. Move." I walk by and whisper to Tauvel, not daring to turn my back on Roiff. "You talk to them. Come fetch me when it's over, the way we came."

>"Where do you think you're going?!" Roiff calls out to me, but Jafill stops him from following. "Come back, chicken fucker!"

And now yet another prisoner, and one of the worst! If any group deserved to be in the palace dungeon, he'd fit in that group with the crimes he's done. Except now he looks like he's gotten his strength back and then some. He's looking at me, he must recognize me, and I'm positive he's going to kill me. I should have drawn my sword earlier because if I draw it when I'm this close, he'll definitely rush me down. My sword's reach means almost nothing here, and he looks like he's recovered more than his share of strength after being sent here.
>>
No. 980451 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160470879333.png - (221.97KB , 800x800 , 1525.png )
980451

I move ahead. I'm alive.

He didn't stop me. I was certain he was going to attack when he saw my exposed throat. I'm losing my mind, but that isn't stopping me from running down the tunnel until I collapse on a vaguely horizontal rock.

"Crap, Daspotta - !"
>"Sir?" She's here. I forgot to make sure she followed. Of course she followed me, I didn't remember to light a torch. She's been keeping up and lighting my way. I'm being a coward and an idiot. At least I didn't run down every side passage I could without remembering how to get back. The tunnel here is at a weird angle; the ground is more of a slope, and it leads mostly upwards, jaggedly.
"Nothing, it's... this is far enough. Watch our backs."
>>
No. 980452 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160470881482.png - (262.24KB , 800x800 , 1526.png )
980452

>"Are you okay, sir?" Daspotta huffs. Not even she can deal with this idiotically hot temperature perfectly, and I made her run to keep up with me. Not like that must've been hard.
"Do I look okay?"
>"I have to ask when you don't look okay sir, and you don't look okay. You seemed to leave in a rush."
"Tauvel can talk to them. If I spoke... I don't think... the second I realized walking away was an option, I ran."

Maybe leaving Tauvel to it was the right choice. This isn't normal fear. I've got some share of cowardice I don't like to admit to others, but this fear isn't something I've ever felt.

I dump water on myself and somehow collapse further. There's a weird noise. I exhale and confirm that it's my own breath. I'm certain my throat isn't supposed to sound like stomping on dried leaves.

>"Sir, it is my duty to ask you if you're - "
"Shut up, Daspotta."
>>
No. 980453 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160470882432.png - (93.89KB , 800x800 , 1527.png )
980453

And now I regret talking.

"I'm sorry."

"That wasn't an order, talk to me."
>"Yes sir. It's okay, I understand."
"It wasn't okay. That wasn't even close to okay."
>"It's the heat, sir, I've heard that heat can cause all kinds of irritability."

I don't like having excuses made for me, but I shut up before I say more stupid things. Maybe I should've straightened up back there and either fought or talked to those prisoners, and simply let what happens, happen.

Except that once again, I realize that Daspotta's stuck with me and whatever happens. If I want to get her out of here alive, I have to be better than this. I'll have to be in control when I go back to talk, or whatever it is I'm doing.

She lifts my wrist and pushes her fingers into it.

"What's with that look?"
>"It's your pulse. It - that is - it needs to go down. It needs to go down, a lot, right now."
>>
No. 980454 ID: 77cba3

You need water and rest and some way to cool down or you are going to just die in the tunnel here.

Be careful with water and sip it and stop dumping it on yourself for now. Do whatever fieldbolds like you do when you need to cool down.

Can we lay on the stones to absorb heat or are they just as warm as the air?

Tell Daspotta all of this. She will have to be your eyes and ears and hands for the moment. You need to drink and rest.
>>
No. 980456 ID: 1ed92d

>>980453
Keep panting. Deep breaths. You need to avoid getting a heart attack.
>>
No. 980457 ID: e2f5cc

You brought those waters for a reason god damn it!
>>
No. 980458 ID: 1e57b1

Oh shit, you might be having a heart attack. The amout of stress and heat that you are taking is literaly killing you. This must be the first time you are so close to actually dying, that is why you are so afraid. You are the kind of kobold that avoids conflict as much as possible, this situation is the polar opposite and your mind and body knows this.

You need to control your breathing. Inhale from the nose, take really deep breaths. Forget about your situation for now, concentrate on your body. Imagine the oxygen circulating through your body, slowly. As imposible as it sounds, you need to relax.
>>
No. 980459 ID: b1b4f3

>>980453
You need to relax, rest, and cool down.

Remember, that guy said to leave the past behind. Considering the "worst prisoner" didn't attack you, I think that's a common sentiment down here. They're not going to kill you if you're not a threat. The kind of life they have down here might even have reformed most of them a bit. Think about it- they don't have to worry about getting attacked by other prisoners, their relationship with the guards is mostly peaceful, and they can get food and water well enough. It's a decent life, they just have no freedom, and are cut off from the surface.
>>
No. 980486 ID: 8fab7a

Well then. Running? Stupid. But not stupid stupid. You did avoid a confrontation. The prisoners didn't kill you, and you didn't rile them and cause a big(ger) scene. They didn't even follow you. Guess the peace held when you weren't around to let old sentiments fester.

Which is as good a call as any.

>High pulse, overheating
Shave already. If not your entire body, at least enough that you won't die from the heat. You have a blade. Ask Daspotta to do her best with it.

Meanwhile, breathe deep, drink water as able. Wait for Tauvel. If Tauvel doesn't return, move along, find someone else to act your guide.

If your brain badly needs a distraction, get Daspotta to talk about laws or something trivial.
>>
No. 980489 ID: 2748b3

Breath in, breath out, steady your breath. Breath through your mouth / pant. Stay still.

Shaving won't help if your fur wicks sweat away.
>>
No. 980490 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160473188049.png - (284.48KB , 800x800 , 1528.png )
980490

I try and breathe. The air feels like it's burning my throat, but it's that or burn my lungs with a lack of air.

Is this a heart attack? If it's not, it's close. It's also not the worst way to go out, but I always thought I'd die from a guy with a knife who didn't like my face. Like that prisoner, but he didn't do anything. Maybe they do reform, down here, and forget about past grudges. Except for Roiff. They get food, they get water, and apparently free roam of the mines. There's plenty of worse places to be than here, unless they're me and Daspotta.

>"Talk to me, sir."
"I'm talking and trying to relax." I try not to snap at Daspotta again. I need to relax or die and now I'm not relaxing because of that. At least being half passed out on this rock counts as resting, and I force myself to breathe deeply.

Cooling down... it's not happening. On the surface I bet I'd call this hot water. And this rock! I just noticed it's heating me up through my fur, I could cook eggs on this! I lean up and keep my torso off the stone, then drink some water instead of dumping it over myself this time. It just gets regurgitated. From how much water I've already had, and with how nauseating this heat is, it's not going down or staying down.

I consider shaving some of my fur off, but Tauvel told me that it doesn't seem to help field kobolds. I don't know why that would be, but Tauvel knows a hell of a lot more about dealing with heat than I do.

"Daspotta, are you keeping watch?"
>"Yes sir. I've got it covered, sir. Can I get you anything to help cool you down, or relax?"
"Beer."
>"I'm sorry, anything else?"
"Ale. Whiskey. Wine. I'll eat fermented bread if that's what it takes, because I'm hungry too."
>"Sir, I saw a side passage a short distance ago that looked like it went upwards at a steep slope. If we go up that, it should get cooler quickly."
"We have to wait on Tauvel, not hide from him. I'm serious about the beer. I want to check if they have that. I can keep that down better than water."
>"Uhm, sir, I think I am going to invoke addendum 24."
"We both know I don't know what that is."
>"'If the field marshal is unconscious or otherwise oblivious to surrounding danger, the assistant is to take initiative to save the marshal's life by any means necessary.'"
"And am I unconscious or otherwise oblivious?"
>"Sir please forgive me for what I am about to say, but I think you will die if you stay down here. If drinking alcohol is a higher priority to you instead of travelling up to cooler climates to save your own life, then yes, sir, I think you are delirious enough to count as oblivious to surrounding danger. I am willing to invoke that addendum even if you tell me otherwise."
>>
No. 980491 ID: 465a14

>>980490
Well you ain't got a choice and you're talking some nonsense anyway, so go drag yourself uphill.
>>
No. 980492 ID: 2748b3

Trust Daspotta.
>>
No. 980493 ID: 77cba3

"Save my dumb ass life please."
>>
No. 980495 ID: 89c535

Her life is tied to your own and the heat easily can prevent you from thinking clearly.
If you can't keep water down you are likely already suffering from heat stroke and no longer able to evaluate your own well being accurately. Trust her in this measure and listen to what she has to say.
>>
No. 980497 ID: b1b4f3

>>980490
I thought we already went up a bit? Oh well, go further up then.
Don't run this time.

Find somewhere that's survivable, and just stay there. Once you start recovering have Daspotta go back to Tauvel and get the information on where Roc Underpass is from him, since by the time she gets back there he must have asked around a bit. She will of course need to be careful to mark the tunnels so she can get back to you.
If Tauvel comes back with her I guess that's fine, since he seemed to want to stick with you to try to escape.
>>
No. 980500 ID: 36784c

>>980490
Fuck, am I really that bad? Alright help me go upwards.
>>
No. 980528 ID: 70d854

>>980493
Say this, and try and stand. An effort, even a token one, may help you keep on the move.
>>
No. 980529 ID: 8fab7a

>>980493
This.

Do you have anything you can use to breadcrumb Tauvel to your location? The coins, maybe? Or something else relatively worthless down here.
>>
No. 980530 ID: e2f5cc

Be stubborn, because drama is fun.
>>
No. 980532 ID: 53560f

Daspotta, I’m almost proud of you. Maybe one day you’ll have the confidence to tell me that I’m an idiot but until then, I’ll take solace that you know when to force your authority on me.
>>
No. 980533 ID: bb78f2

>>980490
Now that's the courage to stand up I've been waiting for. IF all it took was a little addendum I would have ordered the addendum active on the justification that I'm oblivious all the time.

Ok. Yeah, lets get up higher.
>>
No. 980536 ID: 1e57b1

Sigh... You are a good kid.
Ok then. But we can't go too far away. We need to wait for Tauvel.
>>
No. 980540 ID: 1a8428

"Good for you, Daspotta, I like to see it. I'm not just a drunk, though, I want booze to make myself relax, and to make my blood flow easier. You know people bleed more when they're drunk? Same reason booze makes you feel warmer in the cold but will actually make you freeze to death faster."
>>
No. 980554 ID: 1ed92d

>>980490
Accept Daspotta's commands.
>>
No. 980564 ID: 2e15a9

To be forgiven you need to do something wrong first. Let's go.
>>
No. 980575 ID: 15a025

You're going to run out of water trying to cool off here. Accept and head up so the poor kid doesn't have to haul you herself.
>>
No. 980593 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160481628596.png - (241.43KB , 800x800 , 1529.png )
980593

"I thought we already went up."
>"Not much, the slope we travelled through last night is at a very gentle slope."
"Hrm, fine. 'cept I'm serious about the booze. It helps me cool down when it's warm, I'm sure it still works in extreme heat like this." I think. "We've still got to wait for Tauvel."

I try to get up. It's more of a roll, and I stop myself before I roll right off the rock. I feel like I might roll off anyway until Daspotta puts an arm on my shoulder and pushes me back.

>"Sir I will mark the path I take and come back for Tauvel myself. I am enacting the addendum now, so please be quiet and breath."
"Alright, go and save my dumb ass."
>"Please lift your arms, sir." She takes my waterskin.
"What for?"
>"To save your butt, sir."

She takes off everything I have, and carries it all herself.
>>
No. 980594 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160481632841.png - (83.95KB , 800x800 , 1530.png )
980594

Including me.

'I have to be better to get Daspotta out of here', says my dumb ass that's getting princess carried to safety, naked as the day I was born.
>>
No. 980595 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160481640217.png - (295.14KB , 800x800 , 1531.png )
980595

"Did you need to take all my clothes?"
>"Yes sir, I'm not taking any chances, sir."
"At least let me walk, this is an embarrassment."
>"Sir, if you are capable of walking, then prove it by getting out of my arms on your own. Otherwise, I think you're just going to roll down this whole tunnel."

I feel better, not that much better. She's probably right. I'll leave her arms in a minute.
>>
No. 980596 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160481641546.png - (238.61KB , 800x800 , 1532.png )
980596

Because getting everything and myself carried like this... it's too much.
>>
No. 980599 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160481659835.png - (69.68KB , 1200x800 , 1533.png )
980599

.... huh?

Where is this? I recall vaguely... getting set down. I was spoken too but I didn't understand what was said.

I fell asleep, that's what happened. It's much cooler here. Hot, but compared to that hell, this is cool.

I see a stone tablet left by the candle. I reach over without getting out of this... hammock? This is much better than the stone.

>Dear Sir,
>I went back to the camp, and Tauvel and Jafill seem to have mostly sorted things out. A runner came and told everyone about the bounties already. There was a big discussion and everyone swore that they'd rather see you live than give Sir Gahki what he wants. But! Please DO NOT come back here! The heat is still too much, plus I overheard Roiff and a couple others talk about how they wanted to rough you up if you showed up again. I hope they weren't serious, but I think I now understand why you ran away.
>I went back down, and Tauvel and I are going to work through the day to earn some food and water. I got an advance pay for you, in the form of bread (in the black cloth), and some mead I put behind a loose rock in the little alcove by you. Please use it wisely, because it is more expensive than water!
>We'll be back before nightfall. It's not like there's much of a night down here, but villages have hourglasses to keep track of schedules, and the term nightfall is still used even if it's an abstract concept down here.
>Above all else, I'm certain you've woken up wanting to carry your weight, but since you can't do that if you're dead, please rest and get your health back! I'm too busy to force you to do that, and so I've taken the liberty of leaving a borrowed sledge hammer in your room. So please rest, first, but if you disobey that and feel you MUST work, then please stay there and make loose gravel like how that one girl we met did. Remember to use the bread cloth to keep yourself from breathing in rock dust.
>-With your best interests in mind, Daspotta

>>
No. 980600 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160481660999.png - (251.53KB , 800x800 , 1534.png )
980600

I move the loose stone Daspotta mentioned near the candle. There's a hole under it with my bag and the waterskin. It looks like everything of mine is in the bag, except for my clothes, because she must think I would immediately bundle up now that I'm only in regular hot air.

I take the waterskin, just to see if there's really mead in here. I smell it. It's not any mead I've had before, I don't think, but it is booze and it smells good.

After all I had her do, she still got me booze.
>>
No. 980601 ID: 2748b3

Bless Daspotta's dedicated heart, we have got to make sure she gets out of here safely. How do you feel? Be honest with yourself.
>>
No. 980602 ID: 77cba3

Sip just a sip and then lay down a bit and see how much more rest you need.

I guess the goal now is to keep getting food and water and tracking down Cheese. For the moment you need to recover. We know how dangerous the heat is for you now so we need to figure out how to avoid as much of it as possible.
>>
No. 980604 ID: b1b4f3

>>980600
Ration it. You don't know how long you're going to be down here.
Take stock of your health. Feel your own pulse and see how badly you're sweating and how easily you can move. Try swinging the hammer around a little if you're confident.
Also scuff more dirt onto your diamond mark.
>>
No. 980605 ID: c1fc43

You lost your "disguise". Get some mud, you've gotta fix that.
>>
No. 980614 ID: 36784c

>>980600
Rest and recover.

And pray that wherever Cheese wanted you to meet her isn’t down in that heat!
>>
No. 980617 ID: e2f5cc

Consider how you're going to propose to Daspotta once you get out of here.
>>
No. 980620 ID: 8fab7a

Note to self: you may have been underestimating Daspotta.

Eat your portion of the bread. Then wear the bread cloth and use gravel crushing to test your limits with regards to overheating. No, like, push yourself to the limit, but test how quickly or how hard you can exert yourself before you start sweating, so you better know how to act down here.

And do check out if taking a small mouthful of mead actually helps. If it has the rejuvenating cooling properties you claimed it does you'll want to use it sparingly and only when you think you'll be about to need the boost.

... perhaps it's more liquid courage than liquid coolant, but every little bit that keeps you from stressing out and overheating will count.
>>
No. 980623 ID: 66d80e

>>980614
If Cheese did want us to meet her somewhere in that heat, then we should make a mental note to kick her big fat squishy butt next time we see her.
>>
No. 980639 ID: 53560f

Welp, might as well rest for a bit and maybe make sone gravel later if we feel up to it to help out daspotta.
Make a mental note to make it up to her somehow because holy shit she’s doing a bit more than just pulling her weight.
>>
No. 980745 ID: dbd72b

She really bailed you out, so respect her wishes. Get rested and make sure you're ok.

If you feel like you're good, you can work as she mentioned to test your condition, but don't push it. You've got bigger things to do, and can't afford to lose it to heat and manual labor.
>>
No. 980748 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160503963992.png - (82.02KB , 1200x800 , 1535.png )
980748

I feel pretty shit, but only because of what I had Daspotta do for me. Physically speaking, I'm much better. My heart rate's normal, I feel alert, and it doesn't seem so hot anymore.

I lay down for a bit, but there isn't much gain after I realize I've probably been asleep for several hours already. I get up, eat the bread, wear the cloth, resmudge my forehead, and start taking a few swings with the hammer.

My pace is carefully slow. I also take a longer break after a bit to try the mead. I do my best to make it one single gulp, but it's fantastic. Better than breaktown alcohol. I get back to swinging to distract myself, and it does a good job of that. I've dragged carts across gravel like this before, so I've got a pretty good idea of what's good gravel and what's bad.

A light distracts me - one tunnel out of here goes down, which I assume Daspotta went through. The other one is where the light's coming from.

And about the same time I notice the light, I notice the air is tingling with mana.
>>
No. 980749 ID: 465a14

>>980748
You've got a hammer, a sword, a candle, and enough of a dirt layer with your rags and eyes that you'd pass for a prisoner. If you can find someplace to hide the sword, do- get dirty enough to cover your diamond and blend in with the local prisoners.
>>
No. 980750 ID: 77cba3

Well we can stay and find out who or what this is or we can take our stuff and hide or leave.

Is the mana a sign of undead or the living?
>>
No. 980753 ID: 8fab7a

Hide sword, act as if you'll keep smashing gravel, but try to catch a glimpse of what's coming, whether it be a wizard, an undead or an undead wizard, or something else, you're probably safest pretending to be one of the slaves.

Though, ergh, you still don't have the collar. Hrm. Can you drag your mouthwrap and put it around your neck, so it looks like it's covering up the collar area?
>>
No. 980755 ID: b1b4f3

>>980748
Evac. Grab sword and candle, go down the darker passage, hide down a side passage and cover the candle. You can handle the heat for a little bit.
The room will look like someone was smashing gravel, finished, then left with a cart of gravel. Which you didn't have; I wonder how you would've transported the gravel you made.
>>
No. 980852 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160513439016.png - (131.67KB , 1200x800 , 1536.png )
980852

I think I look prisoner enough. I'll risk it, and I roll up my face cloth and tie it around my neck like a collar.

I also slide my sword down in the alcove and move the rock back to obscure it, but the hilt is left out so the blade can be drawn. Whoever's coming is slow, so I take some more swings with the hammer to look hard at work.

Then one person turns the corner, and as we see each other, a second follows closely behind, and it appears to just be these two. Neither one looks undead, but the one in back is dressed so cleanly that I'm sure she's a wizard, and the reason I can sense mana.

>"Shotolli?" She asks. She's looking at me, but the other responds.
>"Yes, dame?"
>"Did our signs not make it clear that this chamber is not to be occupied?"
>"We have, but many workers remain illiterate."
>"But they're the same signs we use - forget it. These new investigations leave us no time to teach this gravel maker basic directions, so tell it to leave and lay out your maps for me to study."
>"Yes dame." Shotolli says and faces me. "Begone and take your work elsewhere, as this chamber is to be used by Dame Allopia."
>>
No. 980856 ID: b1b4f3

>>980852
Well that explains where the cot came from.

Say goodbye to your sword, Moss. A prisoner-slave has no right to speak to a wizard to ask what she's investigating or even to offer assistance, and a pursued field-marshall will die before he gets any answers.
Take your hammer and leave. You will have to go tell Daspotta what happened then find a new chamber to rest and hide, and hope that either they don't find the sword, or think it was someone else's.
>>
No. 980863 ID: e2f5cc

Avert yer eyes and abscond as the lady says.
>>
No. 980865 ID: 77cba3

If you leave your sword here they will find it shortly. Can you wrap it up in the bed secretly as you pack up?

Neither of them are armed openly. How dangerous are mages with no weapons?
>>
No. 980867 ID: 53560f

If they’re down here then they likely work for gahki and judging by the fact that it’s a wizard with maps, they are either trying to determine the next best place to expand the mine or they are trying to find you with magic and deductive reasoning.
Start packing up, get your sword if you can.
>>
No. 980870 ID: 298f1c

Oof, well, ther goes the sword, at least for a while. You still have the hammer. Donm't say anything, just bow, take your stuff and leave, you will come back later.
>>
No. 980871 ID: 6c122f

Well, none of them look armed. Moss, what do you know about wizards ? Are they feared for their martial prowess, or for abilities like controlling people, paralyzing them, or otherwise incapacitating them ?

If so, yes, you should meekly obey, and hope they do not find the sword.

If not, then I reckon you're in a position of strength.

In fact, you could very well surprise them by introducing yourself as the Field Marshall Moss. After all, they are required by law to aid you, aren't they ?

So, you might be able to enlist their aid to exit the mines (they seem to have maps, probably reasonably up-to-date, too), with the promise of a reward for rendered services afterward... I mean, if the local lord tried to kill a Field Marshall, there might very soon be an opening for that lord's position. Same for the Crow zone, which could very well be conquered by Krix's army following this casus belli.

I mean, Krix clearly doesn't care about "Moss" or his life. But the insult of having his Field Marshall, which represents His autority, attacked and nearly murdered, would provide him for a very good excuse to punish them, I think.

A wizard is necessarily a noble, and would probably see a likely raise in status, or at the very least, the favor of a Gold noble, as a good thing. And the other kobold, who seems to be a geometer or some other learned type, wouldn't stand to lose anything either.

If they don't want to work with you, you can always hold them at swordpoint until Daspotta and Tauvel come back. Or murder them, if they really act rashly, and you cannot keep things civil.
>>
No. 980872 ID: 700014

What's that? Leave? Sure.
Time to eavesdrop.
>>
No. 980873 ID: b1b4f3

>>980871
The position of Field Marshall is only respected when it is invoked in a place where the Field Marshall can't immediately be killed.

That said, I don't see a weapon on the non-wizard...
>>
No. 980874 ID: b1b4f3

OH, I have an idea.

Be slow. They're about to spread out some maps, so if you can look at them and see where Roc Underpass is, you won't need help to find it.
>>
No. 980875 ID: 36784c

>>980874
If their map is anything like the last map we looked at here: >>978893 , then I don’t think getting a quick glance at it will help us.
>>
No. 980922 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160530110858.png - (163.45KB , 800x800 , 1537.png )
980922

I make sure not to make eye contact with a wizard, especially a pompous one like this who's sure to think she's a noble even if she isn't. I don't know what her purpose is, down here. I doubt she's here to sanctify this chamber then leave. If she does, she'll be among my favorite people in my life, right behind Daspotta.

I turn to gather my things. I am not leaving my sword here. If they see it and confront me, I'll find out how they respond to the field marshall title, and how formidable they are in a fight if needed. The wizard's helper may have a long dagger on him, and the wizard herself... wizards are volatile in a fight, but their magic alone does not often directly help them. With a proper sword, I still have a great advantage.

It doesn't matter. They ignore me as I pick up my things. All I leave is the bed, which Shotolli claims as he rolls out his large map right over it. I don't linger or gawk, but I note that it's about a quarter size from the guard outpost's map. Yet I also notice that there are several sheets, so if it's all one map, the total surface area could be even bigger than the outpost map. It certainly looks as detailed, but I walk away.

I'd sit down down in the tunnel, but it's too hot. So I stand and try to focus on listening in to those other two even as I get distracted by the dawning realization that I'm wearing Daspotta's skirt. They talk and talk about where their destinations are and who they've got to investigate in the next couple of days, but it's all names and routes that could only mean anything to me if I saw the map. Finally, they seem to talk about something relevant.

>"Regardless, next is exploratory camp 270. Is it just me, or do they continue to move farther and farther away?"
>"Yes, dame, their camp appears to be kept minimal and nomadic in order to save time travelling to their work sites each day."
>"Were they ordered to dig so deep?"
>"No, dame."
>"Then while I perform my ritual, explain to them that they are not to dig another foot downward."
>"As you will, dame. When they inevitably ask why you order that, might I suggest indulging them with an explanation?"
>"Do as you wish. Tell them that I am aware that exploratory miners avoid being suspected of attempted escapes by digging far down from the surface, but this group is digging so deep that I'm suspecting them of obstructing our investigation by making it as intolerably hot as possible! I wonder if they somehow know it's far more difficult to perform my ritual when it's that hot, but don't don't tell that outright. Now pack your maps and let's get this over with."
>"I understand, dame. I am obliged to remind you about the abomination camp's batteries."
>"I will charge the batteries as we walk. If they complain about the quality, they can take it up with my superiors and their sudden, haphazard schedule."
>"Yes dame."
>>
No. 980923 ID: 655513

Mages helping the undead? New this really is getting out of hand. Abominations are not fun, that is for sure. Are they trying to make an army outside of Erja Nokol? Like an forward base?
>>
No. 980924 ID: 77cba3

Well that is some info at least. We have crews trying to dig super deep into lava and the heat makes blessing area with mana harder apparently?

Abominations are Cheese's people though and are likely to be friendly to her. If we can follow this pair as they recharge things we might find friends. But you will proably heat stroke out if you get into a area that even a draconic thinks is to hot.

Hmm she said that the batteries need to be charged but she can do it while walking? Does that mean she has the mana batteries on her? Is the camp 270 a normal camp or abominations that like the heat? And if they do know about the heat messing with rituals is there a reason they are trying to avoid the ritual?

Following her at a safe distance might be a good idea. Your giant ears do seem to give you a advantage in the sneaking department and we need to know more about what is going on down here.
>>
No. 980925 ID: b1b4f3

>>980922
Camp 270 is especially deep? Wait... that camp might be the one Daspotta and the others are at.
We have to go down and warn Daspotta, and find another not-so-hot place to hide while the wizard does her ritual. Though it would be nice to avoid getting roughed up, so see if you can call for Daspotta from out of sight.

Attacking the wizard without provocation is right out.
>>
No. 980948 ID: bb78f2

>>980922
Wait a fucking MINUTE hold up was my bullshit story we almost spun up about the Erja campaign somehow being a threat here for real?
>>
No. 980961 ID: 655513

>>980948
I am inclined to think so, given what we just heard. The Empire might acutually be in danger for once. If what is happening here is happening in other places inside their territory, they might be in for a nasty surprise. The necromancers might not be in the defensive as we thought they were.
>>
No. 981001 ID: 6c122f

So, the Crows and the Necromancers really do work hand-in-hand... Yep, that is a nasty surprise. We cannot expect these ones to help, then, as they are clearly colluding with the enemy.

I'm inclined to think that the prisoners might be our best bet, here. Their jailor is clearly working against the empire, so making a deal with them in order to help them escape doesn't seem that illegal to me, now.

After all, if they helped "foil a conspiracy", it might be redeeming enough in the eyes of the higer-ups, right ? Maybe enough, at least, to allow them a reduced sentence, or to commute it to army time, I'd guess. After all, Moss speaks as his Gold noble, unless I'm mistaken. So he should be able to "levy" them, which would cover the legal aspects ? Better check with Daspotta, though...
>>
No. 981007 ID: b1b4f3

Before we assume this is necromancy, let's keep in mind we don't know what the ritual is for.
Also we should keep in mind the undead here are crap. They are no threat to the empire.
>>
No. 981012 ID: 8fab7a

Guys.

This mine is in a Dead Zone. They need wizards to regularly replenish mana to areas so kobolds can live here without going bonkers nuts cray and die.
>>
No. 981032 ID: 10c408

>>980961
We already knew that the quarentine was an abject failure and that the garrison was just LETTING people come and go as they pleased.
>>
No. 981036 ID: 6c122f

>>981007

The "necromancy" part is due to the term "battery". Remember, necromancers use batteries.
Plus, this lord *is* a necromancer, even if he doesn't act in cahoots with the ones from the Necropol
>>
No. 981487 ID: 1ed92d

>>980600
You must understand this:

You are Daspotta's weak point right now.

If you die, she will have to axe herself or be executed. You are her lifeline and she's dangling above a pit watching you fray yourself.

Do her a solid and do everything in your power to stay alive and let her take care of things. She's built like a brick shithouse and while she's a bit naive, she's currently prepared to act like a hunter-killer to ensure you both get out of here alive.

All you have to do is avoid dying and do the investigative thinking while you let Daspotta break people in half to save your too-clever ass.
>>
No. 981640 ID: 15a025

Going back into that room is probably a bad idea for now. Getting caught in there isn't going to go over well. Stick where you are for now.
>>
No. 983608 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160799569734.png - (191.61KB , 1000x800 , 1538.png )
983608

I'm tempted to follow her - but her light coming down the tunnel shows she's following me! She mentioned camp 270 is next, and that may be the place where Tauvel led us.

I also don't know what this 'ritual' is, but abominations... mutants are all over the place, but abominations seldom wander aimlessly. If they're here, there's a reason. A reason that should have nothing to do with me, even if it turns out these mines have more to do with Fen's campaign than I'd have thought.

I'd love to see those maps, but I hurry down to Daspotta when it's clear the wizard is coming down this way. The air is starting to burn, yet it keeps going down and down. By the time it levels off, I've got a newfound appreciation of how far Daspotta carried me uphill.

I recognize where she took my pulse. If I get that delirious again, I'm going to do something dumb like propose to her, as though she hasn't been saddled with me enough already. She needs to get out of my life and go somewhere good.

I make it back to camp, and Daspotta is talking with some ex-prisoners by the fire. It's friendly.

They notice my presence, which immediately murders the conversation.
>>
No. 983609 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160799570748.png - (192.16KB , 800x800 , 1539.png )
983609

>"Moss." Daspotta gives me a look. It's a look I haven't seen since my mother caught me sneaking back home with a stolen pie. "Sir."

She looks at my hammer. Then back up to me.

>"Did you get my letter, sir? About not coming back down here?"
"A wizard told me to leave the room you brought me to."
>>
No. 983610 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160799574299.png - (518.71KB , 1000x800 , 1540.png )
983610

The one I don't recognize speaks with some urgency.

>"A wizard? What did she look like, and is she coming down here?"
"Draconic, simple white cloth for a wizard with gold colored... whatever you call the highlights sewn into robes."
>"Embroidery?" asks Daspotta.
"Yes that. She's on her way down here."

The ex-prisoners look at each other with a tension I can sense. The unrecognized one gets up and leaves.

>"Should I put on another chop, Roiff?" asks Daspotta.
"Forget it, that wizard won't eat anything we make. She's just earlier than scheduled. It's no problem." He speaks to Daspotta in a voice more amicable than I thought him capable of, and yet... he also sounds like he wants to avoid a surprise inspection.

"You guys are up to something, aren't you?" I blurt out it like I'm still a guard ready to press farmers.

They pause. Then the draconic stands and walks in front of me.

>"If you've got something to say, then either say it, or keep your muzzle shut and pointed down."

I didn't come back down here for a fight, but if these guys are trying to escape, I want to know. I want Daspotta out. Even if it's without me, it's better than nothing. I can tell her about farms that needs workers like her, no questions asked.
>>
No. 983611 ID: 465a14

Propose marriage to Daspotta.
>>
No. 983612 ID: b1b4f3

>>983610
Tell them you want to at least get Daspotta out of these mines, and you're willing to work for them to do that, but you also can't stay down here where it's this hot for very long. Ask them for orders.
>>
No. 983613 ID: e7848c

>>983610
"What are your orders?"
>>
No. 983615 ID: 77cba3

"Do I look like I want to make a mess of your plans? I might not handle the heat well but I can lend a hand."

Long story short if you want out of here with your neck and Daspatta's intact you need prisoner help. Heck if the whole place escapes we could care less. It's not our job to give a damn if this whole place escapes.

So try to make nice with the prisoners and get trusted if you can.
>>
No. 983617 ID: e2f5cc

"Sorry, old habits die hard." Then proceed to do as you're told and keep your head down until the wizard's passed.
>>
No. 983619 ID: f778b3

>>983609
This face OMG is precious, i will keep it on my mind for ever.

>>983611
Not right now.

>>983610
Tell him to calm down. We want to help with whatever they are doing. If they plan to excape, so be it, is not our problem, as long as they stay far from Krix's territoy. Hell, fucking this noble's place up sounds fucking great right about now.
We still need to find Cheese, we want Dasppota out of here, and if posible out of here alive. Helping them might acomplish some of this things. So yeah, there, if they don't want to do it for you, then for Dasppota, she has nothing to do with this.
>>
No. 983623 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160800637879.png - (531.25KB , 1000x800 , 1541.png )
983623

A kobold buys me time as she rushes past this room and behind me. She mentions she'll see the wizard, and this guy staring me down calls out to her to give a warning when the wizard is about to arrive.

"I don't care if you guys are escaping, but I want to get Daspotta out of these mines. I'm willing to work for you to make it happen." I whisper, but I don't dare turn my face down yet.
>"Just Daspotta?" he asks back, likewise in a lower voice.
"Not like I want to be here, but if you don't want to do it for me, then do it for Daspotta."
>"Um, sir, I can't leave you here, you know that."
"You can, and I'll shove you out of the mines myself if I have to."

Daspotta lets it lie for now, but we'll have to talk about that later. Still, if these guys have an escape route, and Daspotta refuses to go through just because I can't go with her, then maybe I'll propose to her after all so we can we can be dumbasses searching for Cheese together. I would've liked to talk to Val in person before moving on, because a breakup through a letter is too empty. Thoughts for later, as Roiff speaks up.

>"You don't believe mud, do you, Behak?" Roiff asks him. "There's no way he only cares about getting Daspotta out."
>"Doesn't matter. We aren't telling him what we're doing anyway. But someday, maybe in the next couple of weeks, we might not be here in this camp anymore. If Daspotta is going to disappear with us, then a lot of extra work is going to have to be done."
"Tell me the orders, then."
>"You'll earn our food for us so we can do things we don't get fed to do. You'll be doing the work of three miners, and whatever else we ask you to do. If you tell our handler anything we don't want him to know, or get snippy with us, then we'll break your body and toss it in front of Sir Gahki ourselves."
>"Sir Behak!" says Daspotta. "Did you not tell me that you'd rather see Sir Moss live, than see Sir Gahki get what he wants?"
>"None of us promised it would stay that way forever, like if he immediately showed his face again just to stick it right into our business."
>>
No. 983625 ID: 465a14

>>983623
Boy they sure are little bitches. Can't afford to give them the kicking they deserve right now, though; ask if that's all.
>>
No. 983627 ID: b1b4f3

>>983623
Ask where you'll be working. You can't work down here, you'll die. You'll diligently make gravel in a cooler place if that's all they want from you. ...hold on, that guy's a field kobold too. Ask how he's not overheating.

Do keep in mind that Daspotta might be saying she can't leave without you because if she does you might be assumed dead and she'll be executed.

(also yes they're right that Daspotta's freedom isn't the only thing Moss wants. We're not giving up on meeting back up with Cheese at Roc Overpass, and hopefully Daspotta and Tauvel can get that information to Moss so he can go there. I don't think telling them all our plans is a good idea right now though. maybe when they're less hostile...?)
>>
No. 983628 ID: 2748b3

"It was because the wizard was heading this way. And deal, I'm sick of having Daspotta need to drag my dumb ass out of trouble, and maybe I'll get used to the heat doing this."
>>
No. 983643 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160801041674.png - (320.83KB , 800x800 , 1542.png )
983643

"Again, the wizard chased me out."
>"And now we're here. Are you going to follow orders?" Behak asks.
"First, I need to know where I'll work, because if you have me work down here, I'll just die."
>"We'll show you where you can work while you build your heat tolerance."
"And if I want to wander? I may have other places I want to be."
>"No. Did you not come here to hide? Whatever reason you have to wander is not good enough. If you are found, this conversation will get tortured out of you. You're going to be close, and you're going to work for less than two weeks. You will follow orders and you will keep your head down like we're all mythrils to you, and if you do that, we'll pay mind to your wish about Daspotta."
>"Hey." Roiff says. "We need to get Moss and Daspotta out of camp anyway. Wizard's coming, isn't she?"
>"Yeah." Behak looks back at me. "Make a decision, now."
"If that's all, then yeah, I'll work hard."

Roiff scoffs.

>"I don't think you're taking us seriously. Prove you'll follow orders without question, mud muzzle. Let me punch you. No dodging, blocking, punching back, anything like that. And most of all, no backtalk. Just shut your face and stand there."
>"Sir Roiff - " Daspotta starts.
>"Hey, it's just one punch. I'd beat the shit out of him, but he's got to be in good enough condition to feed me, doesn't he? All he has to do is follow one simple order, and I'll believe him."

The animal just wants to be weird about this and punch me. These two remind me that despite their mistreatment, they make it hard to pity them.
>>
No. 983646 ID: 465a14

>>983643
Above the waist, nothing weird, just a fist.
>>
No. 983649 ID: 2748b3

"Let's just get this over with."
>>
No. 983651 ID: fa2754

>>983643
"Don't get my good side"
Then imply either side of your face. He'll go for that as opposed to going for your groin.
>>
No. 983660 ID: b1b4f3

This is clearly about his sister. Say nothing, stand there and let him get one punch in but guard your crotch and obviously don't let him stab you or something.
>>
No. 983662 ID: 651ae0

<i>Just</i> one punch, and no permanent damage.
>>
No. 983663 ID: 864e49

Why are we all agreeing to this? What about our plan to find Cheese? Are we really trusting these guys? Am I missing something?

And what about Cheese's blackmail/revenge plan? Has everyone forgotten about that? If Moss, or at least Cheese, doesn't get out of here the empire is going to find out about what's going on here and when they show up it'll be to enact a scorched earth policy. We will all be fucked, living and undead.
>>
No. 983664 ID: 77cba3

Fuck no.

Working with prisoners is one thing but letting the crew that hates you beat you up? If you do this its game over right now Moss. We need to get Daspatta away from these goons and get rid of them if we have to. Besides one good punch down here with no medicine and the heat could leave you half tothless and crippled.

You might be weak right now but you still are armed and combat trained. All you have to do is say no and step back and wait. The mage will be through here shortly and fuck up all there plans.

We might be in a tough spot but if you let these asshole dictate terms you are going to end up with no sword and no Daspatta and no escape.
>>
No. 983666 ID: e2f5cc

"...Fine. One punch above the waist. No permanent damage, and if I think you're pulling something all bets are off." And remember to show your disgust so they don't think you're a complete bitch. If Roiff says something like "I'm the one making the deal here." then remind him that he doesn't get to punch you if he doesn't agree.
>>
No. 983667 ID: 53560f

Welp, shut your face and stand there so he can punch you. Grit your teeth because there’s no way he intends to be gentle.
>>
No. 983678 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160806388212.png - (275.05KB , 800x800 , 1543.png )
983678

"Above the waist, nothing weird." This might be a bad idea, but I choose to go with it and keep it simple.

I brace and grit my teeth as he pulls his fist back. He might stop it short just to see if I flinch first, but -

THOK
>>
No. 983679 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160806389450.png - (315.89KB , 800x800 , 1544.png )
983679

Ow.

I stumble back and get caught by Daspotta, who I didn't even realize got behind me. He punched harder than I thought he could, but at least I didn't get laid flat by it. I had to be ready in case he didn't stop punching, but he stays put.

>"Damn, that felt nice." Roiff says. "Too bad she didn't let you fall. Alright, go on then, be a good boy, pick up that hammer, and get to work! Daspotta, show him to that vent nook we showed you earlier, you two need to stay out of sight. Oh, and..."

Roiff eyes my sword, then looks me in the eye.

>"And give me the sword."
>"He took the punch." Behak walks between me and him. "Stick to your word and let him work, we don't need the sword. Moss, bring us two wheelbarrows of gravel by breakfast tomorrow. A miner will go up soon to make sure you have what you need, so don't show your face here till tomorrow."

Daspotta lets go of me and makes sure I can stand.

>"Come on, Sir, I'll wrap up the food I got for ourselves, then we're going to have a talk on the way up. Behak, can you send Ferill? I wanted to talk to him some more."
>"Fine."
>>
No. 983680 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160806390484.png - (15.31KB , 800x600 , 1545.png )
983680

I check to make sure all my teeth are still there. There's some blood, but thankfully I can still be proud of how many teeth I have at my age.

Daspotta leads me up, and this time I'd be able to walk myself if not for the tunnel being so thin that we have to crawl. The earthquakes are all the more terrifying, as it feels like the ceiling and the floor shift out of place.

>"Sir. What are you thinking?"
"Getting you out of here."
>"Is there something you know I don't? It's fine, but you seemed to think they had an escape route."
"Guard instincts. They were an open book, and I pried. I still don't trust them. But I overheard some of the conversation at the fire, and they seem to like you. What's going on, there?"
>"They opened up a lot when I asked about their lives and their family above ground. I think they got so sick of people down here telling them to forget about their lives, they liked it a lot when me, an outsider, was interested. They're alright people if you're on their good side, but... they definitely have a bad side, based on how they want to treat you."
"If you're on their good side, then that's a relief. Do me a favor and make sure they really do have an escape plan. You can promise them, and mean it, that you won't tell me a thing."
>>
No. 983681 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160806392733.png - (308.18KB , 800x800 , 1546.png )
983681

>"I can't escape without you, Sir!"
"Why not? The assistant is only killed if the marshall is, right? I won't be dead. We'll just be separated."
>"What about Cheese?"
"If she got away from the elevator crash with a broken leg, she can last another week or two. I don't even think she needs my help. Maybe if you make friends with some of those villagers, we can get them to find out where Roc Underpass is, but right now, all I care about is getting you out of here. You don't deserve any of this."
>"Sir, may I talk about my own feelings?"
"What've you got?"
>"I understand you haven't had much respect for the position of a marshall's assistant, but you've shown me great respect as a person, so please let me speak as a friend. You don't deserve any of this, either, and I also don't have much confidence you can survive here on your own, sir. The best case scenario you're working for is having me watch the camp's people walk all over for you for a couple of weeks, then having me escape the mines, where I'd be unable to stop thinking about what horrifying fates I've left you to deal with all on your own."

Her lack of confidence is fair, but a couple of weeks is enough to build my heat tolerance, and I'll be in a better mental state to survive.
>>
No. 983683 ID: 465a14

>>983681
There's no such thing as heat tolerance, Moss. You die when you die. You might be able to feel better about dying or endure the pain but you're not going to change that you need water and that your body sweats water out when you're too warm.
>>
No. 983688 ID: 2748b3

"Alright, I understand. This does let me do something useful and keep me out of sight of the guards, while I can maybe get used to the heat. It also gives them reason not to rat me out if I'm helping whatever plan they've got, and I can try to figure out what to do next."

>>983683
I think there is a degree of adaptation, in at least your body realising it needs to sweat more to stay cool. You still suffer if you can't get water, but it's better than no adaptation.
>>
No. 983692 ID: b1b4f3

Heat tolerance must be a fantasy kobold thing that's magical or mutation-related.
>>983681
She's got a point. Do you really want to spend two weeks being miserable, lose your hiding spot at the end(since the miners will be gone), and have almost nothing to show for it? I mean, there is one advantage to getting her out. She could tell the authorities about the necromancy going on in here. Or, considering how the necromancer threatened you with pretty severe consequences if a dragon knight showed up, just tell your boss you're trapped behind enemy lines. He can send someone to extract you, at which point you can duel the necromancer without worrying about his threat.

The alternative is to spend a couple of days pretending you're going to spend weeks crushing gravel, and once Daspotta finds out where Roc Underpass is(that's why we're here, isn't it?) you abandon the miners and head there. They'll be a bit pissed but you would've technically stayed true to your word- by taking Daspotta with you, you're no longer asking them to get her out. This plan makes the assumption that Cheese is capable of finding an escape route.
If I'm wrong and this miner's camp has no leads on how to get to Roc Underpass then I guess we can just spend a couple days here then travel again to another camp where we're more likely to find out where to go.
>>
No. 983694 ID: 77cba3

"You are right I have been treating you like a servant that got forced on me when you have proven yourself a capable partner. I appolgize Daspotta."

"So partner we are going to escape from here together with Cheese as fast as we can in any fashion we can devise. Help me come up with a plan."

"Also we need to find out if I will get any amount of heat tolerance and how fast it will take. Are there other Fieldbolds you have seen that handle things fine? And not just surviving but actually able to fight and do regular work?"
>>
No. 983716 ID: 769526

Don't know about heat resistance, but you can sertanly get used to it.

Well, Dasppota, we seem to have a problem here then. You don't want ME to have a bad time, i and i don't want YOU to have a bad tiem either. And i am fllattered. There must be maybe like, four or five people to like me THAT much.

So, let's see our options. I suck it up and do as the miners say, look for a way to excape, together if posible, and informe Krix about what is happening here, they will probable treat this as treason and fuck this place up, maybe giving the prisoners here a better fate, but that is hopeful thinking. We could play along until we find where Roc Underpass is and contact Cheese. Or we could do a mixture. We help the miners, you get out and try to contact Krix, while i stay here and TRY to find Cheese, so we can deal with the crows once and for all. Chesee can take care of herself better than me, she might even find a way to contact me while we work here. It's just a matter of time. She did it once already.

But i want your opinion. Perhaps you can come up with something better. As long as it doesn't involve you coming to harm's way. It's NOT negotiable.
>>
No. 983717 ID: 53560f

Don’t get me wrong Daspotta, I’d like to escape, but right now I needed to find stability so I can have something to stand on while I figure things out.
Sure, I’m expected to do the work of three people but as long as they aren’t watching me constantly then I still have a little bit of leeway to look for cheese and figure out how to get out.
If you get out without me then there are things you can do outside that benefit me down here like tipping off important people that Ghaki practices necromancy.
>>
No. 983727 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160808797516.png - (230.30KB , 800x800 , 1547.png )
983727

"Don't worry about me. I can build heat tolerance. Tolerance has to be a thing that exists, if Roiff can hang out there and work."
>"Oh! That's right, Tauvel gave me a talk about it. He says that people from the surface take a week or two to get used to the heat, and then things like delirium, nausea, and other stuff goes away. That's when things are most dangerous, because then they grow overconfident, and are able to work their bodies to death. It takes weeks longer to get the mental tolerance, but also the mental knowledge to know your own body's limits. So please don't overtest your limits just because you feel you can work harder."
"I'll be sure to keep drinking water and pacing myself, then."

We exit into a small room. It's not as high up as the one I got kicked out of, but the air doesn't fry my eyes so it'll do. I set my items down, and Daspotta drops on the bed.

"That was a heavy sit down, Daspotta."
>"That obvious? Yeah, I worked hard to leave a good impression with the camp, sir. Don't worry, I'm following my own advice, and I just need to rest for awhile. Speaking of which! How can you say you'll pace yourself, but also tell those ex-prisoners you'll do the work of three kobolds?"
"I'll get to swinging and show you. You just rest there."
>>
No. 983729 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160808800685.png - (132.27KB , 800x800 , 1548.png )
983729

>"Sir... I do not understand why you are doing this. We can do other things. We can leave and find Cheese. I requested the mutant kobold I saw in camp out of hopes they might know Cheese, because they perked up at Cheese's name when the runner shouted the bounty at us. Maybe they can help. We can search for other escape routes, made by people who won't be so cruel to you."
"Everyone else I've seen are consigned to their fate down here. Those prisoners still have a drive to escape, and it's unlikely we'll find anyone else willing to do it, especially since working conditions are so much better than I expected."
>"There's just so many other options, but you're choosing this one that... sir, you're putting yourself at the mercy of people who, before you came back to camp, I heard saying things they'd do that... they would leave scars, sir. I can't believe I let that man punch you, I can't believe you let it happen! I was ready to grab you and run far away. So why is this the option you're trying to convince me of, when you aren't even sure they have an escape route?"
"If there's a chance they have one, I'll take it. If you can't find credible evidence that they have an escape route, we'll leave after a couple of days. Those guys? They won't be so quick to harm me that badly while I'm giving them free meals, and, to be honest with you, I'm not someone who can handle being on the run, and I am in dire need of some stability. If you need justification to escape for your job, you can tell the palace about the necromancy down here, about Sir Gahki, all that stuff. You can tell them I'm still very much alive, and that I stayed behind to continue my investigations."
>"Sir, forgive my arrogance, but it sounds like you're doing all of this for me."
"I thought I have been making that obvious."
>"If it's for me, then please consider my viewpoint, and that I care about you, even if you do not."
"Daspotta, if you want me to consider your viewpoint, consider mine. I have done nothing in the last few months but be complicit in a glorified slave trading pen. The more I look at my future, the more I see my escape to a quiet life thin out, and replaced with an inevitable, and not too far away, death. I need to have something, even just one success, just something to look back on with pride with how I spent the last few months of my life."
>"Forgive me, sir, but even if I understood that, I cannot believe that just saving me would give you that satisfaction."
>>
No. 983730 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160808801615.png - (285.06KB , 800x800 , 1549.png )
983730

"It would."

I face her.

"I like you. At first I thought you were just an overachieving assistant who just wanted to do a good job. You are also that, but you have gone so far and above expectations, that even the most flattering description of your job pales in comparison to your performance. That is because you are not just doing your job, you are simply being a good person. If I got you out, this would not be some consolation to make me think, that, well, at least I did something decent in the last few months of my life. This would be one of my proudest moments of my life. And it is a long life, far longer than most kobolds have. The empire deals many cards to its people, and far too many of those cards are lethal. I've been lucky that it took them this long to deal one to me. I should take it with some grace. So, please, if you want to do something for me, let me do something for you."
>>
No. 983731 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160808803086.png - (273.54KB , 800x800 , 1550.png )
983731

>"Sir... sir you're making me blush and that is not a very field marshal thing to do sir."

Now I feel embarrased saying all that, but it all just came out without thinking and I did mean all of it. I should contemplate my options. I do want to stay here for at least a couple of days, because this spot really does feel remote. I don't know how far Tauvel can take us without risking that.

"Whether you stay with me or not, I'm going to find Cheese. If you haven't gathered yet, I don't have so high an opinion of her, but she's also gone out of her way for me, so it's only fair I do the same for her. So while you are around, I'm open to ideas. You mentioned a mutant was going to check on us. Should we mention Roc Underpass?"
>"I think it would be okay, sir. That's always a risk sir and it's up to you sir but it's okay if you do."

I'm not entirely convinced she even heard my question.
>>
No. 983732 ID: 465a14

"I asked if I should mention Roc Underpass, not if I should cum inside."
>>
No. 983735 ID: 77cba3

"We might as well risk it. We have to ask someone eventually. But we should keep it subtle if we can. Maybe ask the mutant about there relationship with Cheese and try to get a read on there character."

Man you are making her swoon over you Moss.
>>
No. 983736 ID: b1b4f3

>mutant, might know Cheese
Huh, that's a really good lead. She used a mutant to deliver the letter, so it's quite possible that the mutant does know Cheese. We have some time though, we're not planning on leaving immediately. Daspotta should get to know the mutant to see if they're trustworthy before asking about Roc Underpass. Spend at least a day doing that, probably two.

Also slow your roll a bit, keep in mind you can't realistically engage in any kind of romantic relationship with Daspotta as an equal, due to the massive amount of power you have over her. Also you're a married man and you really should talk to your wife about making your separation official, if you no longer love her. Do you?
>>
No. 983738 ID: e2f5cc

>>983736
>"Also slow your roll a bit, keep in mind you can't realistically engage in any kind of romantic relationship with Daspotta as an equal, due to the massive amount of power you have over her.

On paper yes, but to me it seems like Moss is already treating Daspotta as more than just an equal, and is making headway in having her act the same. And besides that, I'm not sure how much they'd care about the power dynamic if their relationship does escalate to that point, especially since Moss doesn't seem to want there to be one in the first place.


>Also you're a married man and you really should talk to your wife about making your separation official, if you no longer love her. Do you?

If I remember correctly, Moss and his wife already divorced at the end of thread 3, plus he's referred to her as his ex a few times since.
>>
No. 983740 ID: b1b4f3

>>983738
Fair enough.
>>
No. 983752 ID: 53560f

Give her headpats and get back to work so she can process what appears to be the best day of her life.
>>
No. 983756 ID: 769526

"You should try the mask, it does wonders to cover how red my cheeks are. That was sappy as hell. Honest, but sappy."

Any way, the mutant might be a good lead, so we can focus on that for the moment. Good job Daspotta, keep working on that.
>>
No. 983758 ID: 1e7d8c

>>983738
More reason to be careful about his feelings, he might be feeling lonely and in need of someone specifically because of the recent breakup.
>>
No. 983759 ID: 651ae0

"Daspotta are you ok"
>>
No. 983762 ID: bb78f2

>>983731
If the question comes from Despotta, who blends in far more easily, the risk is minimized.

Now, also, think for a moment, Cheese did ask a total blunderhead like us to go to a place that isn't exactly obvious. I think she wants us to ask about it, assuming its safe to ask, especially mutants. That may not even where she'll be, but where she'll WATCH. It may be Cheese's trap. If you finally show up there, she'll find out and contact you, if someone ELSE shows up there, she'll sus it out and find another way to contact a blunderhead.
>>
No. 983783 ID: 270452

It's easy to reduce risk here. Just add garbage data.
>What?
Ask about other places too.
If there's a leak, they'd either have to figure out the specific spot we seek or search every spot, which would take time as well as spread them out a lot.
>>
No. 983864 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160833687087.png - (371.42KB , 1000x900 , 1551.png )
983864

I didn't mean to go so strong on someone I'm trying to get out of my life. Especially strong on someone who basically has to do as I say. That gives me hesitation to give her headpats or any sort of physical affection. I'm also ashamed for even starting to make moves on Daspotta, when I want to have better closure with my ex-wife, Val. If I get out of here myself, my first priority will be to have a talk with her so I can move on.

The thought of my getting out of here does feel distant, but I'm here now.

"That was a good call to get the mutant up here, but on second thought, we don't have to mention anything first. We'll feel them out for a couple of days and see. Come to think of it, Cheese is probably just watching Roc Underpass. If it was critical no one else finds out about it, she should know better not to tell a blunderhead like me to go find it without any leads or directions."
>"I don't think you're a blunderhead, sir, if I ever thought you acted recklessly it was because of the heat."
"Thanks. I don't know if I agree, but I know better than to swat down a compliment. We can be smarter about this anyway. Let's ask about other locations. I saw a few locations on the guard outpost map, we can ask about those just to see if they have a decent lay of the land, right?"
>"Yessir!"
"About what I said." It's awkward to bring it back up, but I can't let it linger. "It sounded a lot less sappy in my head, believe me."
>"It was the nicest thing that's ever been told to me, sir. I don't care how sappy you think it was, but - did you mean it?"
"Every last sappy syllable was honest. That's why I'm willing to get you out, even if it's hard on me."

Daspotta looks like she's going to reply, but I hold up my palm. We've kept our voices low, and I hear shuffling coming from the tunnel.
>>
No. 983865 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160833688712.png - (291.99KB , 800x800 , 1552.png )
983865

Just the mutant, good.

>"I brought up a couple empty mine carts for you. Anyway, the bounty on you guys mentioned Cheese. You know her, then?"
"Just well enough to get lumped into her bounty. Do you?"
>"I've heard about her. Even if a mutant hasn't heard of her, they've probably heard of the group she was in, because tales of them are told across Erja Nokol, and that spreads fast among mutants. Sometimes the details change, like I don't know if they were called the Mishap Mob, or the Catastrophe Council, or... anything. I didn't know any of them were still alive or even real, but then that bounty came."

He eyes the amount of rocks I've made so far.

"Put those in these carts. You can cover the lid, then hold onto this rope and let them back down, the rope's just long enough if you have someone at the bottom to unpack them. Two of these carts are worth 1 wheelbarrow, so you'll have to fill both of them three times and deliver them all down one way or another. Daspotta, go back down to the camp. Behak wants you to start tailoring. Go on ahead, I have a few questions for Moss, alone."
>>
No. 983866 ID: 77cba3

Nod assent to Daspotta and figure out what this guy wants to ask.
>>
No. 983867 ID: 465a14

>>983865
Interesting eyes he's got. Something in them?
>>
No. 983869 ID: b1b4f3

>>983865
Tell him Daspotta is unflinchingly loyal to you, there is no reason to keep anything from her.
>>
No. 983870 ID: 74665e

>>983869
It doesn't really matter, we can tell her later, let's not confront him unnecessarily. She can go. Tell her to keep her eyes and ears open and to take care of herself.

Let's her what she has to say.
>>
No. 983871 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160834163155.png - (22.73KB , 800x800 , 1553.png )
983871

I start opening my mouth to say she's loyal, and there's no reason to hide anything, but I shut it again. I can tell her anything, later.

"Go on ahead, Daspotta, I doubt I'm going anywhere. Take care of yourself."
>"Okay, sir. Remember to do the same for yourself."

She leaves. The mutant stares at me until Daspotta is long gone. I don't think his eyes blink once. Finally he breaks the staring marathon and looks at my waterskins. Or she. I have no idea.

>"I know you were 'just doing your job', but your job was to keep us suffering so we'd be happy to get into slavery like this." He says, which is one way to put it. "Now you're going to work, so that we can take it easy for a bit?"
"That's what was agreed."
>"I don't get it. We could've sold you to Sir Gahki for a reward much better than whatever work you can do."
"I doubt Sir Gahki's promises of rewards are trustworthy."
>"That must be what the others are thinking. Since that's how it is... I was told you were given mead, with the idea you or Daspotta would work hard for it later. But now you're going to be too hard at work to pay it back, and you shouldn't earn anything from Daspotta's work. You still have the mead, right? Hand it to me, and don't you dare tell me you've drank the whole thing already."

I was saving it, and it's with the other couple of waterskins by the bed.
>>
No. 983872 ID: 77cba3

Working with them is one thing but getting bullied to much is another. Stand up for yourself a bit. They all think you are some high and mighty noble and the more you let yourself be pushed around the more they will push until you are dead.

So politely tell this gentleman to fuck himself and inform him that you are just a conscripted guard who got stuck with a job that traditionally gets you instantly murdered. You are not a rich noble just some guy trying to survive in the fucking empire.

Then headbutt him until he passes out if he tries anything.
>>
No. 983873 ID: 465a14

>>983871
Nah. Don't let this become precedent for people to bother you and take your stuff. He already admitted you'd be working hard, and that was the point of the mead.
>>
No. 983874 ID: 855c9f

This guy is a total idiot.
However, perhaps diplomacy may yet succeed.

"I have a sword.
However, I doubt you're here at the behest of your pals, so let me clear this up for you.
I could just leave if you push me here. As it is, we have a deal. A fraught, shaky deal, but still a deal.
I have other prospects, but I choose to be here. Partly because I hated my job. I hated what I had to do to you.
But I also have limits. If you extort me, I walk out. If your pals figure out you chased off a meal ticket, where does that leave you?"

The prospects are somewhat of a bluff, but if our choices are to deal with parasites who will suck us dry or to improvise? I'd say improvise might be the better deal.
>>
No. 983875 ID: bb78f2

>>983871
If Daspotta finds out I gave it to you, I'm going to get in a lot of trouble... I hope she doesn't ask for seconds...
One final Swig, then, to keep morale up long enough to DO this work? And if Daspotta asks for it back, since it WAS paid with her work, she gets it at least if she wants to drink it for herself, deal? She should have that right, at least.
>>
No. 983876 ID: e2f5cc

>>983873
This
>>
No. 983879 ID: 53560f

The mead was a gift from Daspotta and I won’t give away a gift. I fully intend however to do the work asked of me and earn the mead as well.
>>
No. 983880 ID: b1b4f3

>>983871
Tell him if he wants to just take it from you without giving anything in return, he's going to have to talk to the other miners first. They gave it to you, so the group needs to come to an agreement on if someone else gets to have it instead. That's how they work, right?
>>
No. 983888 ID: 651ae0

"When all of you, <i>and</i> Daspotta, agree that I should hand you the mead, then and only then will I. Don't come here on your own and ask for things. What I did was inexcusable, but I will not live to fulfill my obligations if everyone whom I've harmed takes what they deem owed out of me."
>>
No. 983897 ID: 74665e

"It is not up to me to give up a gift. That mead was from Daspotta. If she notices that i don't have it, she'll nag at me. And she will. If you want it, go as her for it. I have no obligation to give it to you. I am doing my part of the deal, that mead was NOT part of it.

I might be her superior, but i don't give a damn about that, nor my current job. She is my friend first and foremost. I am just doing this as a favor for a friend... which got way out of hand..."

I almost forgot that we are doing this ALL of this for Fen, actually. Hard to remember sometimes. He owes you BIG time. I mean, he is the reason you are here to begin with. Kind of. Sort of.
>>
No. 983916 ID: dbd72b

>>983873
This. Tell him to consider taking that punch we didn't have to as payment. This is us playing nice.
Also, dude made this shit shady by asking Daspotta to leave. Settling debts isn't that private, especially since she's involved in this one.

Don't threaten us so you can sneak a swig.
>>
No. 983922 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160840389556.png - (364.77KB , 800x800 , 1554.png )
983922

I expect them to abuse me as much as they can, so I should try and make sure that as much as they can is as little as possible.

I face him more straightforwardly.

"You have some nerve, opening with telling me about my bad deeds, and then asking me to give a gift away. As far as I'm concerned, I earned it by taking Roiff's petty punch."
>"That's fine, I'll just tell all the others how much backtalk you gave me."
"And I'll tell the others how you tried to steal a swig for yourself, which is pretty obvious with how you sent Daspotta off. Besides, if I give you the mead now, I'll just get some like-minded prisoner telling me to give it to them, and then I'll have to dare to tell them I don't have it."
>"None of that sounds like my problem, mud muzzle."
"Your problem is that the deal's shaky, and if I don't think it's worth it, you'll be the one having to tell the others why I abandoned the deal and left."

He thinks on that for a second, instead of the usual snappish response.

>"I was going to give you this water in exchange for it." He pats the waterskin on his hip. "It's better for you anyway, but mead's apparently more important to you than having Daspotta escape."
"I've seen zero proof you guys have an escape route to be abandoned." It's like he wants me to punch him, and he's making some good progress on that.
>"Hmmm... if the only reason you're threatening to leave is because you haven't seen our plan, maybe you should see it after all. The others would agree."
>>
No. 983923 ID: 465a14

>>983922
Tell him to go and tell them how badly he want meads if he wants to share plans. Don't let him drag you into some conspiracy shit.
>>
No. 983924 ID: 465a14

>>983923
wait damn that's a lot of updates now that i've been forgetting the proper response. fuck his ass. it's never failed.
>>
No. 983925 ID: 77cba3

Well get to explaining things then.
>>
No. 983926 ID: 60e755

>>983922
If he's so sure he can go talk to them. You have work to do.
>>
No. 983929 ID: e2f5cc

Sure, you can go with. Just make sure none of the convicts will hold this break against you, and make sure he knows he wont be getting any mead for this, since it's basically just a courtesy. Oh, and relay what you're doing to Daspotta, and bring the mutant with you so he cant swipe the alcohol while you do.
>>
No. 983931 ID: b1b4f3

>>983922
I don't think the others would agree. You admit you are curious about their escape plan but you definitely haven't worked enough to earn their trust. Right now you just don't want to be treated any worse than the terms of the deal you made. You will work your ass off and you will treat them with respect.
Trading for water sounds like a poor trade, to be honest. Won't you have free access to water anyway? Offer a different trade. He can have the mead in exchange for a favor at a future date.
>>
No. 983939 ID: 2748b3

I don't think the others will agree, especially knowing your past, he's trying to coerce you to benefit himself at your expense. Tell him you just want to get to work.
>>
No. 983940 ID: 74665e

"You can go and ask them, i have to stay here and do my part of the deal. I don't like to fuck around, i am in a tight schedule as well. If that is all, i have some stones to grind."

All we are doing is wasting time right now. If he wants it so bad, he can bitch to his friends about it. If they agree, you can give it to him, IF the rest of them take a sip as well. Sharing is caring, after all.
>>
No. 983956 ID: bb78f2

>>983922
Then discuss that with the others, come back with them, and have them show me so that I know you are all on the same page.
Next time I see Roiff and the others, I'm going to request that all further discussions and demands are made when they are all present together, this should keep things actually manageable and under control.

Now, do you HAVE something that may help Cheese, because that may be the only thing relevant we can only discuss between ourselves. And maybe this next question:

What's your story, you act as though you're tight and loyal to Roiff, but I don't recall you from the prison or as anyone from his group of raiders that could have gotten here otherwise. He save your life here or something? He's something to you, otherwise you wouldn't have cared at all about my systemic complicity from before this place.
>>
No. 983957 ID: 53560f

“I was told to my face that they weren’t going to tell me their plan. I’m starting to think you aren’t actually with them.”
>>
No. 983977 ID: 15a025

Tell him to screw off, the others already said they don't want you to know their plan.
>>
No. 984017 ID: 1ed92d

>>983922
Tell him to piss off. Simple as that. You out-mass him. He can come back and steal it later as a thief in the night if he wants.
>>
No. 984103 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160859574295.png - (291.53KB , 800x800 , 1555.png )
984103

"If you don't have anything to add about Cheese, then leave. The others already said they weren't going to explain a thing, and because I trust you about as much as you like me, you're going to have to get them to show me proof. Not you."
>"Fine, get back to work then, mud muzzle." He starts crawling back into the hole, turning his back to me.

I resist sassing him back that I've been trying to do just that, but I let it go. I might not recognize him back in the dungeon, but he's definitely a prisoner. Only they call me mud muzzle like that. Only they antagonize someone twice their size like they're invincible.

>"One more thing." He calls up from the tunnel. "I want your mead. This isn't over, so don't you dare drink it or give it away."
>>
No. 984104 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160859575087.png - (265.55KB , 800x800 , 1556.png )
984104

I finally get peace long enough to fill up some crates. I fill up the two carts and lower them down. By the time I've gotten another good bit of rocks crushed, I tug on the carts, see they're light enough to have been emptied, and pull them back up. I repeat the cycle, getting four down.

My pace is getting slow, but I still manage to fill up 6 carts worth.
>>
No. 984105 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160859576075.png - (419.94KB , 1000x800 , 1557.png )
984105

I let the two carts down for the third time and collapse onto the bed. I just hope I can recover as well as I used to, otherwise I'm in big trouble. The first night in hard labor is always easy. The real struggle is keeping up a pace like this for days on end, and my arms already feel like dead weight hanging off my shoulders. The rest of me isn't much better.

It must be late, because I feel tired even beyond that. Before I fall asleep, I hear a bell coming up the tunnel.
>>
No. 984106 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160859577135.png - (299.62KB , 800x800 , 1558.png )
984106

I muster the energy I need to turn my head to the tunnel. Daspotta comes out, and she's dragged the emptied carts back up with her.

>"Ah- I'm sorry, did I wake you, sir?"
"No, I just finished."
>"Right. I brought some more tools, and we're going to tie a bell to each end of this tunnel so that we can communicate when your carts are delivered and emptied. I also brought extra food and water, since you must need it."
"I do. I hope they don't have stupid ideas about how much food to give me for work."
>"No sir, the handlers themselves are deciding how much food we get. I'm weaving, it is apparently a rare skill down here in the mines, which is why it still pays well in food even if it is not as physically demanding as what all of you are doing. Because of that, it means I can get much more food than I need. I'm not hungry, sir, so please take my excess."
"You are a lifesaver, Daspotta."
>"Please, sir, you already flattered me so much tonight!"
"I doubt my words do en - " Slow down, Moss. "It's deserved, Daspotta, but fine, enough on that. Are they treating you well down there?"
>"Yes sir."
"No bad deals they want you to make, no unfair work, no hitting?"
>"That's correct, sir, it's like I said, I appear to be on their good side, so I'm sure it's much better tha - wait, why are you asking? Did the mutant hurt you while I was gone? I'm sorry, I shouldn't have left so quickly!"
"I'm just making sure. Nothing came of it Daspotta, I'm fine, Daspotta - "
>>
No. 984107 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160859579144.png - (278.83KB , 800x800 , 1559.png )
984107

I talk faster at her but to no use. She's already starting to roll me around to inspect me for wounds. I'm in no physical state to resist, but the worst she finds on me are a thinner coat of fur on my fingers and palms, a natural consequence of swinging around iron from half decayed wood.

>"You made me worry, sir! You still are. As I was saying, there's no need to worry about my treatment, it seems. It's odd, but someone did tell me that I remind Roiff of his own sister. Now the others may be doing the same. It's strange to be treated like the group's little sister when I've just hardly met them today, but as strange as it is, it's still so much better than the loathsome looks they have on their faces when you're around. In the face of that, I can't be rude and scrutinize them on their attitude to me just because it's a little weird."

She sets her tools down. Another pickaxe, a smaller hammer, and a bucket stands out, along with some bandages and some waterskins she trades for my empty ones. I eat what she hands me.

>"Ah, something else. That mutant did come down to speak with the others. He's convinced them that if you leave, it will lead to a lot of trouble for them. Some believe that if they tell us about the escape route, which they let slip exists, you won't have any good reason to threaten to leave. They haven't made any decision yet, but they're fighting about it down there. It's a lot of yelling and a lot of physical threats on each other, but they should make a decision by breakfast tomorrow. Until then, I wanted to make sure you were alright, and make sure you can get to sleep okay."
>>
No. 984108 ID: 34467c

You should tell Daspotta about the... trade, that guy wanted to make.
>>
No. 984110 ID: a9af05

>>984107
Tell Daspotta that the only reason the mutant is doing all of this is because he wants your mead. That's the reason he came to you in the first place and now he's asking everyone else to put their plans at risk because he's hoping that'll convince you to let him have the mead.
>>
No. 984111 ID: 89ca45

Yeah tell her about it but remind her to not bring it up if at all possible.
>>
No. 984112 ID: 465a14

>>984106
>Slow down, Moss.
nah, don't

Anyway thank her properly. Make sure she sleeps properly, too... and try to keep your mind clean while you do.
>>
No. 984114 ID: 129fef

>>984107
It's because of that damn mutant fool. He wants the mead really bad and started to coerce me into giving it to him, and then tried to make deals. He said they won't stop until he has it, which might be trobulsome. He is even worst than me dealing with the lack of alcohol.

You think is a good idea to make them fight with with him? Just enough to make him stop being a bother.
>>
No. 984115 ID: bb78f2

>>984107
Warn Despotta that the mead will likely be gone soon. But not to fret over it or ask on my behalf for me to keep it. We know she worked hard for it but we can't chance the group turning hostile over it. These people justified killing people for simply paying taxes to a monster. They don't need much.

If she is going to leverage them in any way, she'll have to remind them of how their actions could affect the community as a whole, they may care for it. I'm not sure. While she's working, it's best if she learns how much they actually care about one another, both the prison camp as a whole and between each other. Who's closest to whom. If they've taken lovers down here, that sort of thing.

Tell her not to look like an obvious eavesdropper, don't stare at anyone she's listening to, etc.

Don't report to us a single exact detail. This will all be information that you will need to use at your own discretion. The most we want reported is broad strokes, how the community is faring, and temperaments, similar to what she's done tonight.

(In all honesty I would love to switch to Daspotta as a POV soon, sounds way fun)
>>
No. 984116 ID: e2f5cc

Lookin' a little shaken up there Moss. I can think of a few thousand reasons as to why, but I'd like to know which of those reasons it is this time.
>>
No. 984118 ID: b1b4f3

>>984107
Damn, that guy REALLY wants the mead, huh?
...hmm. If we do find out about the escape route, we can tell Cheese about it, and that will let us all leave at once... or we could just escape and then duel the necromancer to eliminate the bounty on our heads, at which point we can reenter the mines and fetch Cheese, dealing with the crows as we do so. Either plan is good.

Hmm, let me flesh out the first plan a bit: the miners will want you to stay put based on the premise you'll be too much of a risk to let go, so instead, send Daspotta. Give her the repaired collar, which will let her perfectly blend in with the miners. She can head to Roc Underpass (assuming the mutant knows where it is) and get the information about the escape route to Cheese. After that Cheese can decide whether to wait for us to go kill the necromancer then extract her, or make a mad dash over here when the escape route is about to be opened, at which point she can escape with us and we'll be in a slightly better position.
Second plan is just to stay put and commit to the two weeks I guess, getting to know Daspotta better, fostering an at least neutral relationship with the camp to potentially use them as a resource once they escape, and gaining a heat tolerance. Maybe the hard work will let you bulk up a bit more too, which will help in your duties as Field Marshall.

Oh, and when the mutant comes back demanding the mead again, make a deal with them. He/she gets the mead, and in exchange they put in a good word with the other prisoners, to make your time here more pleasant. Maybe get some leeway on the amount of work you have to do, so you don't work yourself to death.
>>
No. 984119 ID: 36784c

>>984118
>Maybe the hard work will let you bulk up a bit more too, which will help in your duties as Field Marshall.
Yeah, this would be pretty helpful. Moss may not get as buff as Krix anytime soon, but getting buffer will help with intimidating others into thinking twice about trying to push him around.
>>
No. 984130 ID: 1ed92d

>>984107
Yeah, point out that Mutant-bold wants Mead and is fairly insistent about it.
>>
No. 984132 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160860461291.png - (356.54KB , 800x800 , 1560.png )
984132

>"Although, you look a little on edge, sir, can I do anything to help you rest?"
"My edge is probably me trying to be upright after making six carts of gravel. Something tells me I'll sleep fine, I think. I may drink this mead soon to help the first night."
>"Sir, I'd recommend pacing yourself on it. If you - "
"The mutant tried strongarming me to 'trade' my mead for a regular waterskin. He's persistent about it. Don't bring it up with them if possible, we both benefit from you having a good relation with them, so don't spoil that. Especially since he's the type of person that will respond to getting called out on doing stupid things by doing more aggressive stupid things."
>"Ohh... I understand then, sir. But no matter his intentions, he's got them in a big argument down there about you and me in general."

I think I can hear it now that I listen for it, but it might just be background noise. This mine is noisy, and even when I was first here I could still hear distant voices, hammer strikes, rumbling and who knows what else. It all blends together, and it's so constant that I already think nothing of it. It only ceases at night, it seems.

"If you do feel a need to ever put leverage on them, be smart about it. See if they care about their impact on the community, and what their relationship is with each other."
>"I think just by talking to them, I've gotten an idea of that. Maybe not enough, but it's all strange. There's camaraderie, but no warm friendship. There's oaths and deals, but all trust seems hollow even among themselves. And for this community... I don't think the ex-prisoners have much appreciation for the native miners, sir. They see the miners as complicitly helping the nobles and spending generations down here in servitude, expecting everyone who is sent down here to also adhere to their ways. Plus... do you remember those poor people in cages and staked to the walls, when we first came down here, before the elevator broke? With what their crime was written and held up?"
"Yeah?"
>"Those were done by other miners, punishing their own. The guards had nothing to do with any of that. I think that doesn't sit well with Behak and the rest. I'll talk to them more and see if they're willing to talk about their views, but I shouldn't keep you all night. You should finish your meal and sleep. They were talking about how to deal with you and what to make you do tomorrow, and it sounds like it involves many, many wheelbarrows of gravel. I'm already tired just from carrying the empty ones up once, sir, so if you're serious about taking on their orders, please be serious about your rest."

I hold the mead and seriously consider downing it. I'd rather enjoy it all tonight than have to worry about that mutant stealing it in the middle of the night. I bet he's wishing he just waited to do that. It'll at least help knock me out through the night, and Daspotta's right about me needing my rest. If she keeps feeding me so well and I rest up, maybe I'll actually get enough mass on me to shut these prisoners up. It worked for Krix.

Anyway, even if I held onto this mead and the mutant keeps trying to make deals, I have no confidence in him upholding his end of the bargain in good faith.
>>
No. 984134 ID: bb78f2

It's great that the miner's are the one's doing the punishing, it means they're afraid of them the most, not the guards, and its the MINER'S skin if you're found out here because all the miners here will be killed.

Basically, we can take advantage of that fact if need be. However, it also means that the miner's can't find out about the escape plan at all. They'll disappear our corpse into a hole for cooperating with it.

If there's nothing else to do, I'd say hit the hay. The mead's too useful of a bargaining chip to down, unfortunately. I'd take a quick swig to enjoy it, it may be your last. Maybe even give Daspotta a swig if she'll accept.
>>
No. 984135 ID: 36784c

>>984132
> If she keeps feeding me so well and I rest up, maybe I'll actually get enough mass on me to shut these prisoners up.
Let’s hope she doesn’t feed you too well. You want to build mass on your muscles, not your fat. You don’t want everyone to keep calling you “chicken fatty”, do you?

>mead
Take a sip. Offer a sip to Daspotta.
>>
No. 984137 ID: 129fef

The mead was originally for helping you deal with the heat, so that is what we are going to do. Is not for fooling around. Until you get used to the heat, that thing stays with you. Take a sip, offer some to Daspotta, i want to see her face.

We need to gather more information in order to make an educated decision on anything. So for now we should wait, listen up and take care of that mutant.

Daspotta should rest as well, she has been doing a lot alrady.
>>
No. 984138 ID: 89ca45

Ration the mead. No getting drunk.

The miners system of justice could help us or hurt us. If they know about the prisoners trying to escape they might take action. Might be useful later but we don't know there culture so be careful.

For now get Daspotta's help figuring out a way to alert you if someone tries to sneak in while you sleep.
>>
No. 984148 ID: b1b4f3

>miners have their own justice system
Yeah, so? If the guards aren't policing crimes that miners take against miners, then the miners need to do the policing. You'd need more details to know if the justice system is unfair or cruel, as the ex-prisoners might just be upset because they feel *any* sort of justice system will fuck them over. It's not completely unwarranted, of course, if they've lived on the wrong side of the law their entire lives without feeling like they were doing anything morally wrong, and we've seen that the nobles have a tight grip on the justice system on the surface.

>mead?
There's a lot of things we could potentially use it on. One thing that we could easily do is make it obvious you gave him the mead, like by accidentally spilling some on him (throw it to him with the stopper off, for instance) or by Daspotta letting it slip. This would lead the ex-prisoners to suspect him of conspiring with you, because his side of the argument down there is that they should tell you about the escape route so that you won't leave- this benefits you. If the other ex-prisoners turn against him, he might try running, and if he's ambitious he might try to reach Cheese by convincing you to leave with him.
Regardless, drink a little of it tonight. We can't be sure the mutant has earned the right to have it until we actually get some information out of him, either Roc Underpass or the escape route.
>>
No. 984159 ID: a9af05

>>984132
Make sure she's not giving you her own food. She might be giving you extra from her own share of food to try and help you out. So we gotta make sure she doesn't starve herself for your sake.

And yeah, give her a sip of the mead.
>>
No. 984160 ID: a9af05

>>984135
Depending on how much food he's given and how hard he works, Moss will probably end up gaining an even amount of muscle and fat.
>>
No. 984161 ID: 53560f

Only drink a little and offer to share it with daspotta since she’s the one that got it in the first place.
>>
No. 984162 ID: 155f4e

That mead is actually worth a lot more if you leave it as-is, just because our purple "pal" desires it so badly.

He believes we'll just give it up after they tell us about the escape route.
However, we still require Cheese before we escape.
But, if we use the mead as a carrot just outside of his reach, he'll do exactly what we wish to get it, almost like a puppet.
We'd have to be careful, of course. If we ask too much or lord it over him, he may seek other ways to get it. But he's the first guy we have some sort of edge over, because his avarice is easy to predict. Therefore, we're able to use it.

Summarized, we are a questgiver. He does our quests, we give him mead.
If it works out perfectly, maybe buy him a keg of the stuff after we get out of this place.
>>
No. 984172 ID: dbd72b

>>984161
This, but half and half, or whatever works for both of you. What comes next is gonna suck no matter what we do. Might as well be people before that happens. At least start off the suck with a good taste in your mouth and a pleasant feeling in your belly, and in your head.
>>
No. 984174 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160866817531.png - (421.79KB , 800x800 , 1561.png )
984174

"Just a sip." I mutter to myself, doing so and savoring it as best I can. Then I hand the skin to Daspotta.

>"Oh, good idea, sir, I'll hold onto it and keep it safe for you."
"Huh? No, I was offering a sip - but that is a good idea."

Daspotta studies it.

"The miners punishing miners... maybe it doesn't matter too much to us, but that does put a new light on why the ex-prisoners want to keep the handlers out of this."
>"They seem tight-knit, maybe the idea of an inner group doing such things to each other repulses them. It certainly makes me concerned."
"No, the prisoners in the dungeon beat the hell out of each other all the time for not fitting in. The difference, I think, is why the punishments are handed out. In the prison, it was for things like accepting their imprisonment, trying to get other prisoners to behave well in front of the guards, and things like that. Here, it sounds like it is the opposite. Punishments for not accepting imprisonment, misbehavior, and so on."

Daspotta takes her sip of mead.
>>
No. 984175 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160866818627.png - (398.06KB , 800x800 , 1562.png )
984175

She has trouble swallowing it, and makes one long, drawn out cough as she carefully refastens the skin.

>"Thank you sir."
"Thank you, you're the one who managed to fetch it. Now, I'm still afraid of that mutant sneaking in here for the mead, and I need to think of how to prevent that. Maybe if he wants it that bad, he'll be willing to do a lot for it, but I suspect it'll be a lot of sneaking and strongarming first."
>"Would you like me to stay awake and watch over you as you sleep?"
"No, you need rest too."
>"I could fit it into the backpack, sir, then sleep with it. If they look on me as favorably as I think they do, they won't be so quick to search through my things or steal the mead out from underneath me."

I feel drowsy enough that if I want to do anything more tonight, I should do it fast. The mead was nice and that was a decent bit of food, so I'm about ready to flop back down on the bed and get ready for tomorrow.
>>
No. 984176 ID: 465a14

>>984175
Hug Daspotta. Letting go optional and strongly discouraged.
>>
No. 984177 ID: fa2754

>>984175
Head pat. Wish her good night. Get some rest.
>>
No. 984178 ID: 36784c

>>984175
You can always put the empty carts in front of the hole. That way if the mutant tries to sneak in here, he’ll have to move them out of the way, which would end up making noise and waking you up.

>>984176
>>984177
Both of these.
>>
No. 984179 ID: 89ca45

Balance your rock hammer on a couple of about to fall over rocks across the entrance. Is not perfect but is best we can do.

Leave the mead with Daspotta and give her a hug.
>>
No. 984182 ID: 129fef

>>984175
Hahaha, las't time we saw someone make that face while drinking alcohol was when Fen first tried wine.

Using the cart is a great idea, the hammer as well, it will make entering more complicated and more noisy for those who try to sneak in.

>Head pat, hugs
Maaaaaybeeeee? Do you have the guts, Moss?
>>
No. 984183 ID: e2f5cc

>>984175
Apply head pats and tell Daspotta you love her. Platoniclly, of course.
>>
No. 984186 ID: 3a3c64

>>984175
Her holding on the mead will likely be the safest option, but if they find out she’s smuggling for you (and likely already assume such), they may start to act less amicable. They hurt her, you kill them; think that’s something we all can agree on.
Probably shouldn’t hug her, or show much more affection. Yes, you’re both in a bad spot, but you cannot afford to get too attached in that way. Get out of here, figure things with your ex, and then maybe see how you feel.
>>
No. 984672 ID: 15a025

Let Daspotta hold onto the mead for now and get to bed. You got another day of filling carts of gravel ahead of you.
>>
No. 984928 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160982346472.png - (305.99KB , 800x800 , 1563.png )
984928

I move in for the headpat and the hug. It's too much and also too late to back out, so she gets an appreciative one-armed hug and shoulder pat. It feels nice, mentally. Physically, it feels exactly like pressing down on a mountain's back spikes looks like it would feel like.

"I don't want them to treat you worse if you smuggle things for me."
>"It's not smuggling, sir, it's protecting your own goods. It won't change their treatment."
"I'll trust you on that. Now get out of here and rest up."
>"Yes sir. Thank you for the mead sir, it tasted nice even if I'm unaccustomed to the burn it has."
"You're not the first." Fen made a similar face, now that I think about it.
>"Also sir I am obliged as your field marshal assistant to respectfully and obediently inform you that the field marshal is expected to maintain a certain level of distance in the relationship between himself and the assistant, for the assistant is meant to be expendable and the field marshal should not grow attached to a replaceable asset. With that said!" She cuts me off as soon as I begin to speak. "This is not a direct rule but more of a guideline for the behavior and professionalism that a field marshal is meant to show, and as your assistant, and also as your companion, I gladly welcome this affection and will gladly hug you back if you would like one, sir."

I take in a breath and she just keeps going.

>"But if this was not a hug and you just needed a bit of support after all that work then please disregard and immediately forget everything that just left my mouth please and thanks."
"Shush. This hug's for you, but you're getting out of here, so it's you who shouldn't be getting attached to me. So don't hug me."
>"Yes sir."

I have to force myself to lift my arm off of her instead of hugging her properly, and then she leaves.
>>
No. 984929 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160982347690.png - (399.06KB , 800x800 , 1564.png )
984929

I balance a couple larger rocks precariously on each other, then my hammer on that. Then the mine carts in front of all that. If someone tries sneaking in, this'll make noise. Some noise. Maybe enough to wake me up. Or maybe not. It's all I got. I sprinkle some leftover gravel for added effect, and that's the best I can do. I need sleep. I'll leave the candle on just in case, it doesn't seem like the mine is lacking in wax.

I lay down.
>>
No. 984930 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160982350040.png - (314.59KB , 800x800 , 1565.png )
984930

>>
No. 984931 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160982353125.png - (3.56KB , 800x800 , 1566.png )
984931

>>
No. 984932 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160982354878.png - (382.80KB , 800x800 , 1567.png )
984932

"Urgh."

Ow. My head. It's splitting. And my neck's crooked. I feel like I was thrown down a tunnel.
>>
No. 984933 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160982357054.png - (458.52KB , 800x800 , 1568.png )
984933

>"Sir?!"

Something's rattling when I get up.
>>
No. 984934 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160982359353.png - (277.70KB , 1000x800 , 1569.png )
984934

Oh.

Oh, those bastards.

>"Oh, thank goodness!"
>>
No. 984935 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160982360802.png - (397.84KB , 800x800 , 1570.png )
984935

"Daspotta."
>"I'm so sorry. I couldn't stop them."
"... I slept like a rock, didn't I."
>"They... hit you with one, sir."
"It feels like they kicked me around while they were at it."

She keeps looking down.

"What happened?"
>"I was sleeping, sir, and I heard some banging. I got up, and was told it was just the blacksmith. I felt like it was in your direction, so I went up. I found them surrounding you on the ground. They stopped whatever they were doing, but they already had the chain on. They told me I could stay here." She chokes up before continuing. "They said I could stay here, but if they found the chains loosened or anything, they'd kill you. Then to pass along that you have to send 10 carts of rocks down today. That was about an hour ago. I got you back on the bed and washed your wound. They said the only hard hit they gave you was the rock, and that's all I saw. I've waited here since. I think it's nearing breakfast time now."
>>
No. 984936 ID: 465a14

Nah, fuck this. Time to figure out a plan to kill them. The good news is you can probably excuse a lot of noise under the pretense of the fuckload of rock you're expected to mine.
>>
No. 984938 ID: 2748b3

Well, they're vindictive that's for sure, but they also didn't think that through. They gave you a slave's collar, and you're in a room with the equipment to smash rocks into gravel. So if you wanted to ditch this group you could smash that chain with some work and go elsewhere, with that collar you wouldn't stand out as much.

That being said, you still need to get your heat tolerance up if you want to do stuff on your own. How confident are you in meeting or at least getting close to 10 carts of gravel, without wrecking yourself? You've got an entire day this time, but it's also triple the work.
>>
No. 984941 ID: f8fa51

Co-operation is no longer an option. Your assets (including your strength) will only be reduced by further association with these treacherous fuck-wits, until you've got nothing left and they kill you or leave you for dead. Immediately see about figuring out how to destroy the chain. If anyone tries to stop you, see how they do with a pickaxe through the skull.
>>
No. 984942 ID: 36784c

>>984935
Moss, you sleep like a rock. An entire army could’ve marched through there and you wouldn’t have woken up!

Might as well check your things to see what they took. Ask Daspotta about the paper she’s holding.

Also try to find a way to screw them over and get them all killed.
>>
No. 984944 ID: b1b4f3

>>984935
Your sword's gone too isn't it.

Well, they wanna play dirty? They're fucking idiots. Deal's off. Tell Daspotta she should secretly deliver a message to the wizard, informing her that the miners here are planning to escape. ...what's that she's got there, a map?
Hit your chain occasionally with your hammer as you smash rocks.
>>
No. 984945 ID: 36784c

>>984944
>Hit your chain occasionally with your hammer as you smash rocks.
Wouldn’t it be easier to hit the rocks around the nail in the wall to loosen it? Then we can just pull the nail out of the wall.
>>
No. 984946 ID: 231248

Wow, screw those guys. Make plans to screw 'em over next chance you get.
Also, did Daspotta take her skirt back?
>>
No. 984949 ID: 46e8b7

OH... Ok then. Ok. I am a little livid at the moment. Not the best situation tio camly assess the situation. But we must. They will pay. But not now.

Ok, i don't think breaking the chain will work, not fast enough to not caught attention. Besides even if we manage to get off, were do we go from there? We wont last long with all this heat, and it will only get worse. We need to gain some resiliance still. Perhaps we might have to play along, ultil we gain more information on were to go.

I have a feeling that playing nice the non-escapist might be good in the future. But not so much.
>>
No. 984951 ID: bb78f2

>>984935
They threatened you with my death!
THOSE LITTLE SHITS! That's supposed to be threat for me, but goddamnit I thought they somewhat cared about you enough to not tell shit like that to your face.

God why does that piss me off more than the chain.

Ehh, the chain is a chain. At least this one is physical instead of metaphysical. Oddly comforting, we can at least imagine finding a way to break it if necessary unlike the metaphorical one. Man, I bet Moss misses his marriage, now THAT was a metaphorical ball and chain we'd rather be attached to.

Not like this changes anything beyond the inconvenience. Way to slow you down, again... dumbasses.
>>
No. 984953 ID: 53560f

...so do you reckon that sledgehammer would be enough to break the chain?
Either way, they’ve gone too far this time. Have Daspotta start asking about roc underpass while you make gravel and cooperate for now. Also see if she can figure out who has the key to your collar.
>>
No. 984954 ID: f8fa51

>>984945
Supporting this. Breaking rocks from around the chain should be the same as breaking rocks from anywhere else. Fuck it up.
>>
No. 984956 ID: b1b4f3

The nail looks more like it's a weight. We can't fight properly while dragging that around. Although... Daspotta could carry it, and the chain is pretty long... If she follows close behind it might work out. Just gotta find out who's got the sword, and ambush them with the hammer to retrieve it, then go slaughtering the rest.
>>
No. 984960 ID: 36784c

Wait, I just realized why this is happening!

The mutant from earlier must have managed to convince the others to tell us about their plan. And because all of them still don’t trust Moss, they chained him up to make sure he doesn’t run off to tell anyone about the plan!
>>
No. 984962 ID: 77cba3

Welp check your situation. Is your sword missing? What about the rest of your stuff?

We need to find it and work on turning the rock around your chain into gravel. Also we need to figure out where they got the neck chain and where it's key is at. The lock is long and big enough that Daspatta could probably hammer it off your neck while you laid down with it on a big rock. But it could be risky.

Daspatta could rat them out to the wizards but if ratting out is to be done it might be best to do it with the other miners.
>>
No. 984963 ID: a9af05

>>984960
That makes a lot of sense.

But that doesn't change the fact that they added extra work on top of what we already had to do. The chain, I can understand that. Beating us in our sleep and giving us extra work, that's not gonna fly. We need to get away from them.
>>
No. 984969 ID: e2f5cc

Y'all do seem to be forgetting that they'll kill Moss if they find his chain loosened, and I really don't think they'll care about a technicality like loosening the rock around it instead.

Just take your beats for now so Daspotta can get out of here, cause it's not like this really impedes you from smashing gravel anyway. If it does, then you complain.
>>
No. 984970 ID: 1ed92d

>>984935
Threatening Daspotta, even with "we'll kill you if she helps you", is absolutely unacceptable. It's time to kill them all.
>>
No. 984981 ID: 919e82

Oh hey they betrayed you. Exactly what you should have expected.

If you still have your sword then its time to save up your strength, get daspotta to sneak you a meal, and then kill them all at the first oppertunity.

Time for you and Daspotta to get your hands Red.
>>
No. 984983 ID: 8fab7a

>>984935
Damn, for all your paranoia... this was a silly way to get caught. Laugh, despite the headache.

Tell her this might help, actually. Yes, actually. When you get out of this chain, at least you not having a collar isn't a point of suspicion any longer - only her lack will be. Not much to do about the diamond on your forehead except to keep it mussed up, of course, but... well, if you did needed an essential piece of disguise to keep staying down here, here it is. And you're not dead, so hey. That's something.

Tell Daspotta she did nothing wrong and if the group's still okay with her presence, so much the better - she should keep playing nice with the good ones and avoid upsetting the assholes. She should definitely keep on helping out with the escape plan. These guys are some right assholes (took your stuff, blade and mead and all, right?), but they're clearly not gonna say no to a free lunch and it's still the best shot she's got.

Ask Daspotta what she's carrying. A map?

Also, consider. How many rock loads can you produce without being so exhausted you fall flat on your face? If you don't feel you can make 10 - especially given the headache - ask Daspotta to ask one of the others to come help you. Not much you can pay back with right now, but if you straight up fail, people go hungry. Besides, gives you an opportunity to chat with some of these mooks.

Lastly, they might've spiked that chain into the rock face, but... couldn't you just chip it free over time, or ruin the chain itself? If you're making gravel you'll have all the necessary tools. You could even do some preliminary work on it. Just chip away a bit here and there.

Not that you'll do so right away.
>>
No. 984999 ID: b1b4f3

...oh, if we're trying to escape, the best way would be the break the LOCK. One or two good hits will break it, I'd bet, though you'd have to lay down and put the lock on a rock or something so it has a surface to apply force to when Daspotta hits it with the hammer. Might want to protect your face with something since the rock will probably break and pelt you with shards.
>>
No. 985032 ID: 2e15a9

You're going to take your blinding anger out on the rock holding your chain down and then think about what to do next. Send her to get your sword and badge, if they nicked that from your hiding spot, she can get you some food.

My angry bits say kill them all, my REALLY REALLY angry bits say leave them to their awful fate. Unfortunately, I think you'll probably have to retrieve your stolen property, which means you'll have to do them- and the gene pool- a favor.

You know, we're so far down shit creek without a paddle I'm seriously considering talking to the wizard. She might work for Gahki, but probably isn't as desperately beholden to him as everyone else down here as to betray you immediately. Also 'Roc Underpass' sounds like something a wizard would know about. She said she was going to exploratory camp 270 next, maybe we could catch her on her way there. She also mentioned she was investigating something, which means she might be working against Gahki after all, or maybe even directly for Apanya herself.

First we have to toe-tag some morons, and before that we need to break that chain out of the wall.
>>
No. 985036 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160989697195.png - (438.96KB , 1200x800 , 1571.png )
985036

...
...
... I'm not as mad as I thought I'd be. I thought I'd be furious. Nothing like the morning after hard labor, and a throbbing skull, to keep the temper in check.

"Did you take your skirt, Daspotta?"
>"I did, sir, I made you a new one."
"So you did. Thank you."
>"I'm glad you're taking this so calmly, sir."
"Don't give me too much credit. I'm still thinking about murder. And they threatened you with my death?"
>"No, sir. They just wanted me to pass on the message, I'm certain the threat was for you alone, I didn't feel threatened, not personally."
"Good." I look to where my sword is. Was. "They took my sword, didn't they?"
>"I'm sorry to report, yes, they did."

Maybe I'm a little mad.

>"I managed to keep your badge, Cheese's knife, and your mead."
"Better than nothing, plus whatever you've got there. A map?"
>"Yes, sir. They let me borrow it to show you, but they'll be letting you keep it after they escape, since it's not something they can bring with them."

She lays it out and points at it.
>>
No. 985037 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160989698182.png - (335.05KB , 800x800 , 1572.png )
985037

>"This is where we are, Camp 270. They told me that a goldyard noble comes through here for secret deals with Lord Gahki, and that goldyard nobles tend to be accompanied by attendants that are always to remain as invisible as they can and never speak up. Which is true, in my experience! Behak's going to have us, mostly me, make uniforms that match their look for us. And then, over here - " She trails a finger along a path - "is a river that they row down. They're going to dig a tiny tunnel to the river in secret, and then blend in with a few assistants, until the noble is let back out. There are more details than that, but I think it could work. They want me because I can sew clothes well, and also teach them things like manners and behaviors that would sell their role as a noble servant."
"Are you safe to tell me that?"
>"Yes sir, with you locked in place, they said it was okay to tell you the plan."
"They're also idiots, and I should've seen this coming. I'm sure they're just going to keep doing shit like this to me, so I've got half a mind to go right to the wizard and tell them about the escape plan, just to see them fail at it."
>"The wizard might recognize us, sir. I would recommend going to the handlers, since they would be against the whole thing and know what to do about it. Oh, this might not be relevant right now, sir, but I'd like to show you something."

She rolls the scroll to the side, and points to... this.
>>
No. 985038 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160989699209.png - (105.85KB , 800x800 , 1573.png )
985038

>"This is the only Roc Underpass I could find on the map, sir. I hate to say this sir, especially now, but Cheese must have been talking about this place."

I'm a little more mad, now.
>>
No. 985039 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160989701467.png - (309.78KB , 800x800 , 1574.png )
985039

"I'm going to take this information, ignore it, and re-learn it later."
>"I understand, sir."

I take a deep breath.

"Okay. There's no reason to panic. I can break out anytime with these tools. This chain is thick, but the hammer is thicker. Even better, you can smash this lock. If your aim is good."
>"Er - I'm sure you can get free, sir, and I would help you, you know that, but! I first should mention that they talked about all the things they'd do if you tried escaping, and if I may speculate, I think they were hoping you'd try! It might not be easy."
"They must've knocked the fear out of me last night, because I just don't care. They can go play at being the new dungeon guards with me as their personal slave."
>"Um, yes sir. If you want to abandon the escape, sir, I'll help you of course, but if you give me the chance, I think I can prevent them from escalating any farther. And if I can't, then the moment they block your food or lay a hand on you or anything, then I'll pick up your sword for you myself if I have to. Is 10 carts of gravel too much, sir? I can argue to reduce it."
"I did 6 carts just last night, and now I have all day. 10's not a problem, even if the bastards are making it this much harder. Not even the chain is the problem on its own. It's tomorrow when they decide I can work with a few whip marks, and the day after when they think I don't need all my toes, and the day after - you get the idea. What makes you think you can stop them from going farther than a chain?"
>"They told us the plan, sir, and they need us more than they let on. I'll even try and convince them to unchain you, because I don't like seeing you like this. But, sir... you spoke with such conviction last night, I want to be sure that if you abandon the escape plan, it's not out of rash judgement."

I think. I try to calm down and think. I'm still willing to go through a lot of shit to get Daspotta out of here. If Daspotta's right and she can get them to stop fucking around with me, then I can deal with getting chained to a wall as the worst thing to happen.

I can either give Daspotta the chance to keep them from escalating this more, or I don't, and immediately break out. Either way, I wait. I'm sure if they expect me to retaliate, they expect it this morning, so I'll wait until later today when they're more likely to have a lower guard.

Daspotta's still standing a little close to me, like she's supposed to do something but isn't sure what.
>>
No. 985042 ID: 77cba3

Break out. Having Daspotta stand up for you will only make you look more weak in their eyes.

Also it puts you in a very passive position having to rely on the kindness of nasty criminals.
>>
No. 985043 ID: 46e8b7

Does the escape route, by any chance, lead to the general direction to Erja Nokol? because that would greatly affect my decision to stick with the plan. And even if it doesn't, i don't really like the idea of going on our own, we can at least make sure you can get out this way. If you can convice them to STOP fucking around and let me "help" them, then yes, i'll stick to the plan. But that means no more hitting me and no more trying to steal my shit. If they can't stick to this two simple requests, we are gone. You don't tell them the last part, obviously.
>>
No. 985044 ID: 5651b0

So you'd have to escape to get to where Cheese expects us?

I hate to say it, but where you are might actually be best. Especially for Daspotta. Though if you somehow persuade your group to allow you to escape with them, that would be ideal, as you'd be able to travel to where you have to go.
>>
No. 985045 ID: bb78f2

>>985039
Yeah, I trust Daspotta, let her deescalate.

Honestly, they really should know better than to fuck with their meal ticket's ability to provide meals, they shouldn't NEED Despotta to remind them that. The chain is also really conspicuous compared to the other prisoners' now that I think of it, would be good to get it off with permission. Can't have us being noticed.
>>
No. 985046 ID: 919e82

If you're going to break out, wait until most of them are asleep and kill them then. Daspotta can tell you when their guard is down.
>>
No. 985053 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160990439162.png - (267.01KB , 800x800 , 1575.png )
985053

I lean back and think on some of the finer details before telling Daspotta anything.

The map shows where the river is, and judging by the elevation, it flows towards Erja Nokol. I don't know where the noble would end up during the escape, but it doesn't matter. It ends on the surface, and Daspotta alone would report my situation to the field marshal office while I continue crawling down here. Even if I went with the prisoners and escaped the mines, I'd have to figure out an all new route to Roc Underpass.

"Remind me when the escape happens?"
>"They expect a couple of weeks, sir, but can only say it is absolutely within the next month."

It's a long time to wait when I'm supposed to meet someone, but on the other hand, Cheese didn't give me an appointment time, and she can't possibly have expected me to make it there quickly. These gates that border the mines of the Turtle and Erja Nokol must be heavily guarded.
>>
No. 985054 ID: 1ed92d

>>985053
I trust Daspotta, but I don't trust the worthless losers in this mine. They clearly deserved to be trapped in this hell hole forever.
>>
No. 985056 ID: b1b4f3

She told you to run and hide. Hiding is kindof pointless in this situation unless you do it for a while, to let the heat die down. If they're actively searching for you, it will be near impossible to travel all the way the fuck over to Roc Underpass. Look at the map closer- there are landmarks called "gates" in the way. How did SHE even get through those? Her mutant contacts here must really be dedicated.

If this situation is really stable, Daspotta keeps them from escalating, and they let you go when the escape happens, this is actually fine. All you have to do is keep your work pace going, and I guess give up the mead so that mutant doesn't cause you any more trouble.
...actually, if you give up the mead to the mutant, maybe he can help you plan for a way to get to Roc Underpass? Now that you know where it is, he can't really demand anything further from you over it; that was the most important information you needed and you can in theory just head towards it and find more mutants along the way to help. Especially with the collar working to disguise you.

You can also use this as an excuse to train. A couple of weeks of hard labor will also get you some more muscle mass and endurance. I wonder if any of the prisoners here know how to swordfight? Maybe you can convince them to help you polish up your sword skills using some spare sticks lying around.
The more they support *your* end goal, the less they have to worry about you running off and betraying them, after all. Maybe with Daspotta's help you can develop a working relationship with them.
>>
No. 985057 ID: 46e8b7

>>985056
I like the idea of trying to convince them to go with them, given our destination, but i don't expect more than that. I doubt that they even know any fencing.

We would be lucky if they even agree with you tagging along.
>>
No. 985060 ID: e2f5cc

Trust in Daspotta. Worst case you can break out later.
>>
No. 985063 ID: b1b4f3

There is one additional thing to consider here: these are prisoners that used to hate prison life so much they punished other prisoners for behaving well. Will they punish YOU for behaving well?
>>
No. 985071 ID: c09f5e

If the mutant's sure he really wants the wine again, consider this: Decking him the face with one hand, and actually giving it to him with the other. Explain that his gang's sense of "compromise" is rubbing off on you.

Either way, stay and let her do her thing.
>>
No. 985075 ID: 36784c

How exactly was Cheese expecting you to get out of here to meet her over there?
>>
No. 985081 ID: 53560f

They need us, which means we might have the leeway to negotiate using Daspotta as our negotiator And bargaining chip. Their plan relies on her talents and knowledge so hopefully we can figure something out.
>>
No. 985088 ID: 6c227a

Break the chain and then stay anyway, just to prove the point.
>>
No. 985090 ID: 8fab7a

>let you keep the mead
Okay, so not complete assholes.

Give Daspotta a chance.

If she does escape, you'll give her loose orders to report in, stay alive and train herself further as an assistant while waiting for your return, so it'll be the truth - and she can stick around the palace at least for a time, assuming they'll put her up. Hrm. Maybe a contingency - if she doesn't hear from you in a few months, she's to attempt to relocate you, rather than wait for you to be declared dead in absentia. Of course, she's free to interpret those orders as she'd like - going through information brokers like you did with Cheese, dropping by a tavern every month listening to rumors until she grows fat and old, whatever. Her call.

If she can get scrap paper at some point, you could write a letter with those orders, as well as summarizing whatever details you want to share with Warlord Krix. Your investigation has gotten... significantly sidetracked, but there's clearly enough going on here that would be of interest to a Gold's field Marshal, even if it'll bring you out of jurisdiction.

>map
...like, all these empire-stretching tunnels seem like an issue. Perhaps a known one, but still. News to you. There's digging going on under other nobles' land, for one. You'd think they'd mind their stuff being mined. Also, the security risk of it all. Also, Cheese implying Gahki being so old he's a bag of bones kept 'alive' through necromancy. And there apparently being a direct connection to Erja Nokol through the network of mines. Gahki and necromancers. Do they work together? Trade?

Say, does Daspotta have any clue as to the Goldyard noble's identity, by the way? Their presence at least indicates that Gahki isn't afraid of certain people ratting him - and all of this - out. Possibly the ability to do secret business this way is more valuable. Possibly they're part of a conspiracy.

Heck, this place might not just be the product of Gahki's. Maybe it's lots of nobles working in conjunction. Mutants and intelligent animals like the Crows contributing. A giant underbelly of the above. An Under-Empire, of sorts.

No wonder they're reliant on undead. Keeping people fed and watered must be a logistical nightmare.

No wonder Gahki did not want you to leave. If you do report this in, he's under some serious blackmail pressure, at the very least.
>>
No. 985101 ID: 276f9c

We can trust Daspotta. The prisoners will escalate until you are dead.
>>
No. 985104 ID: dbd72b

nobles' servants are going to have intricate outfits, and expect instant and accurate obedience with flawless etiquette. Hand signals are not uncommon. They may not notice different people there, but nobles tend to have very refined senses for being offended.

And we haven't even talked hygiene. Stink alone will probably throw the plan.

I don't see this plan going anywhere, and Daspotta might actually be in danger for attempting it. These guys are seriously desperate, or incredibly ignorant, which is worse. We should skip over the escape and try to find cheese when things calm down and you have some stamina.

We don't have to ratfuck these guys instantly, if you can get anything out of this, but it isn't worth any harm done to keep this up.
>>
No. 985132 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160999200117.png - (267.37KB , 1000x800 , 1576.png )
985132

"I'll give you the chance. The day things get worse, I leave."
>"Thank you sir, I'll get them to stop interfering with your help and get them to behave better."
"Hmph, the thought of them behaving..."

.... It just occurs to me they don't like behaving. They punished fellow prisoners for behaving. If I behave, will that ironically make it worse? Or are they hypocritical? I have another idea.

"One more thing. They can have an outlet to hit me. Tell them to gather some sticks and gather their bravery, and spar with me."
>"Are you sure that's wise, sir?"
"If I were wise, I would've ran away the second I stumbled on a barbarian's dragoncloth. But I need to gather my bravery, too, and take a few hits to avoid taking a few stabbings later. I've been hiding from fights for awhile now, and I need some confidence back. I doubt these guys are that good in a fight, but they've got enthusiasm and dirty tricks, something that goes a long way. And I doubt I can avoid fights forever if I go to Erja Nokol, which I want to do just to ask Cheese how the hell she expected me to get there."
>>
No. 985133 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160999202345.png - (335.55KB , 800x800 , 1577.png )
985133

"Now, I've got a half dozen concerns about how successful this escape route is going to be. I don't see any better alternatives, but that doesn't mean I want to send you to die. Intricate servant outfits, hand signals, etiquette, and good hygiene aren't things I've seen in miners here."
>"I can sew, I know a lot of standard hand signals, etiquette, and the river we're going to is clean so we'll definitely dip into that on our way. There's other details, and it's a risk, I know, but apparently they've been studying the noble for a couple months now along with how the servants act and look. I know they seem desperate and a little illogical, but they seem to be smarter about this."
"Then I definitely shouldn't try to go with them, because they just seem to get a case of stupidity in my presence. I'll give you written orders for when you get out. Sir.. who was the guy at the field marshal office?"
>"Sir Guhn."
"Yeah, him. He seemed happy to leave the position filled so long as I wasn't proven dead, so they won't execute you. If you don't hear from me after a couple months... well, you'd know what to do better than I do. Just live well."

She steps forward and hugs me.

>"I'm sorry for my unprofessionalism, sir. Just promise me you'll do your best to survive down here and escape."

I can't be cold to her. I hug back.

>"Yeah, I promise."
>>
No. 985134 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160999203598.png - (19.53KB , 800x800 , 1578.png )
985134

The hug lingers for awhile. I look at the map. I should memorize it in case I don't get it.

I'm in no hurry to break the hug, anyways. I have all day to make gravel.
>>
No. 985135 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160999209632.png - (19.57KB , 800x800 , 1579.png )
985135

>"This is the Tunnel of Stubs. Better known as Route 23. It connects one of our wizard's checkpoints with the Mausoleum. We've known about it for some time, and have plugged it up. The enemy has recently tried to breach it. I took no chances, because we cannot afford such a breach. Heavy troops were sent directly through the necromile to attack the enemy's exposed back and disrupt them while the situation stabilized. The diversion troops were successful, but at the cost of being surrounded. Now, they are attempting to flee either to the wizard's checkpoint or back to our footholds in the mausoleum to recover. The best route they have to escape is to get to Inhralalop."

Sir Zall looks around at us with a skeptical eye.
>>
No. 985136 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160999212612.png - (32.50KB , 800x800 , 1580.png )
985136

>"Better known as the 'skeletorium', within the Mausoleum. And the enemy knows this is my troop's best route, so they are now besieging it to prevent an escape. I want as many to get out as possible, or make it as costly to the undead as possible. Go and report to the skeletorium's helm knight. You can expect to either reinforce it and hold, or push into Route 23 to save any besieged diversion troops, but it will be at the helm's discretion. The situation is chaotic, and every minute counts. I have spent much of the last few weeks training many of you, at the cost of time spent operating our assaults. For many of you, this will be your chance to prove you were worth the sacrificed time. Grab your things, grab your pawns, and go. I expect everyone out of this base in 15 minutes."

It's the last audible word in his speech, but we all know there's a last unspoken line, 'be considered a traitor if I see you around here after 15 minutes.'
>>
No. 985137 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160999217654.png - (16.07KB , 800x800 , 1581.png )
985137

rolled 16 = 16

I don't need that long. I'm fully equipped, and my pawn, as reluctant as I am to call him that, knows the way to the skeletorium. Along with me, the rest of my squad is either going there, or already is there.
>>
No. 985138 ID: 5fc3a0
File 160999226297.png - (58.97KB , 1200x800 , 1582.png )
985138

Including Aira. Kylia's operation was successful, although she tells us that Aira scared the hell out of her for awhile at the end. Aira seems fine now, and the experience was like Kylia said it would be. It assisted us both in hiding our passive mana. Aira especially so. She is nearly impossible for me to detect.
>>
No. 985139 ID: 465a14

Hug Aira.
>>
No. 985140 ID: e2f5cc

>>985139
Save the huggings for later. Now is the time for murder.
>>
No. 985141 ID: 470289

Get Kylia to reroll you for better stats.
>>
No. 985143 ID: 470289

>>985141
Also make sure your pawn gets killed so you can reroll that for another waifu you will neglect.
>>
No. 985144 ID: bb78f2

Gonna gonna kill some undead
Gonna gonna kill some undead
Gonna gonna kill some undead

Fucking finally. LETS DO IT!
>>
No. 985147 ID: 77cba3

Salute your boss and get your butt in gear so we can save some knights.
>>
No. 985150 ID: b1b4f3

>>985138
Salute and move. Double time it.
Inventory check please.
>>
No. 985152 ID: 36784c

>>985138
Time to go save Valsano. Hopefully he’s still alive so that you can save him.
>>
No. 985157 ID: f39ded

>>985139
Hugs are for winners and we haven't won yet. Let's fucking go, i want to see Valsano's face when we save his imperial ass.

Looks like Aira will be an even more impressinve assassin asfter all. I never saw her as teh confrontational one, always using underhand methods. This will be of great use in the future.

How do you see yourself performing now Fen? Feel any diference?
>>
No. 985169 ID: 2748b3

How's your own mana hiding now, Fen? Feel ready to re-murder some undead?
>>
No. 985170 ID: 8fab7a

>>985138
Hooh. One out of ten chance. Guess Aira got a LOT closer to it than you if she learned to hide her mana well and fast. You're both definitely on the 'worth it' survivor's bias side of things.

Good that it worked out - and especially good for her, considering her stated goal of survival. If there's nothing to grab, time to get moving - or help whoever's with you get moving.

... who's your new pawn, by the way?

And did you get any letters of note of late?

Oh, and one requirement for further personalized training was that you sneak up and touch Zall's spine. Did everyone manage? Or, well, anyone?
>>
No. 985177 ID: f8fa51

Well, what are you waiting for then? If you're fully equipped and know the way, just "Yes sir" and go!
>>
No. 985180 ID: 4b0c86

>>985139
I think there was plenty of hugging when they woke up. Now is not the time.
Let's head to the bone zone.

...And remember to keep out of the tall grass.
>>
No. 985181 ID: 1ed92d

>>985138
The heavy armor will help against poisoned arrows and darts, at least! Let's head out and hunt for the Helm Knight, then we can resume slaughtering the Undead to get that Title.
>>
No. 985197 ID: c09f5e

Actually before you go, ask after the "pink artifact" you recovered down there. That construct is nearly indistinguishable from actual Lily. Which suggests at least two theories:

(1) It's reading your off your soul somehow to perfectly recreate your greatest desire.
(2) They have enough information about the wife of a protective Mithril Noble to create a near-perfect replica.

If it's (1), it should be falling apart if you've been keeping up with your stealth. You would like to know.

If it's (2), then that suggests the backing of someone pretty influential on the noble chain. If it's not said Mythril himself... This theater of war could be a lot less limited than you think. If you can spare the time, a quick patrol of the other entrances could be prudent. But I doubt your superior would appreciate a detour from his orders, much less respond to your inquiry.

Either way, the mission takes priority.
>>
No. 985201 ID: 3e956b

>>985197
I think it was (1) but a one-time read.
>>
No. 985202 ID: 36784c

>>985197
>(1) It's reading your off your soul somehow to perfectly recreate your greatest desire.
It was already explained that it’s the opposite of Fen’s greatest desire.

It’s his greatest fear. Which is basically Lily, but she doesn’t love Fen.
>>
No. 985213 ID: 2e15a9

Okay, but she doesn't do it all the time, right? Like, the bit that scared Kylia wasn't actually her dying and coming back as undead, right?
What about yourself? Are you happy with your progress? And what about your pawn?
Anyway, better double-time it, but try to move as a group.
>>
No. 985218 ID: b1b4f3

Speaking of Lily I feel like Fen should send her a letter next time he has a chance. The secret is basically out at this point, not much point in holding back.
>>
No. 985253 ID: c808f8

Well, for starters, what news has Fen received about construct Lily? Or about lady Cassa's miraculous recovery?
>>
No. 985255 ID: a9af05

>send a letter to Lily
>construct Lily
>Lady Cassa's miraculous recovery
None of these are important to our current objective and checking up on any of them would take longer than 15 minutes.

We can worry about those things later. Right now, let's focus on our current mission.
>>
No. 985256 ID: 9aaeef

Tell Aira “You really had me worried for a second” while you touch her shoulder.
>>
No. 985341 ID: c09f5e

>>985202
My mistake. I should learn to read better.

I will say that it was an ineffective way to scare/demoralize Fen, on the battlefield. I was thinking her creator isn't a proper necromancer. She might practice it, but she's better specced in mana constructs.

>>985201
You're most likely right, as much as it looks like a subtle "please stay away from my fiance". As much as I'd like for this quest to end in a guilt-free punch to his face, this isn't enough to pin a conspiracy on someone as high up as "benevolent tyrant" Stup, if it even IS him. But I am talking too far off-mission.

>>985255
Agreed. Just prepare for anything. Or anyone.
>>
No. 985827 ID: 15a025

Do final check to make sure you have everything you need. Then get ready kill some undead.
>>
No. 999140 ID: 82b004

Although we are very capable of stealthing ourselves, it might be better to rely on Aira for sticking to shadows now, now that she got so close to death where you can't even detect her.
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