1/6 Derklord 2025/04/21(Mon)13:47 No. 1106638 ID: 3f89df
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The Woodland has known strife for an year now, factions vying for control of the land, each with their interests at heart, the denizens: those who live in the clearings taking the brunt of the consequences of the war, yet it was not always this way, the woodland has an history to it, and many traditions, cultures, have been lost to the hands of time.

Except the Eyrie Dynasties, The Eyrie Dynasties in a few short centuries, took the mostly isolated Woodland communities, taking newly found clearings into roads, and trade their success due to their political structure, mainly being a republic of noble-man birds whom despite their political diffrences unifed into the Eyrie dynasties, and through them conquered the woodland, making them both powerful, and fabousely wealthy off of the work of the denizens.

However, the Eyrie had a problem, which ultimately became their downfall, and it was the favouritism of their subjects. The Eyriee are birds, and through osmosis became a collection of birds, raising birds above the denizens of the clearing, any objection of the clear species favioritism was met through their will through strength, however dysfunction was brooding. As time went on, the Eyriee became less unified, noble houses, and rulers squabbling over key specific resources, and positions in the woodland, and the head of the instability would come soon.

2/6 Derklord 2025/04/21(Mon)13:47 No. 1106639 ID: 3f89df
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In the Great Civil War.

The details of the great civil war are murkey, even to those who lived through it. There are multiple theories surrounding its beginnings. Some think it was a political dispute that turned a little border claim into an interwoven web of war. Some say that the Eyriee council turned to treachery, with important members being assassinated. Some think that having enough of the oppression of the people and the elevation of other species, The Woodland Alliance was formed, in a desperate plea to form their freedom. Some think that members of the Corvid Conspiracy planted the Civil War. A group of Corvid Immigriants tired of being exploited by other factions, such as the Marquise. While they expected warmth from the Eyriee, they were instead exploited, the seed of which would form the corvid conspiracy who’d fight back against the Eyriee.

Whatever theory is right or wrong, what happened or didn’t happen within the chaos of the Great Civil War, one thing remained constant: the desolation of many communities, and factions within the woodland happened as they knew it. As for the Eyrie, the Eyrie finally united under one house, which gave it its modern name; however, they were left broken and scattered, and they fled to the corners of the woodland, to recoup and rest for their resirugince.

The communities left to fend for themselves rebuilt mainly independently from each other to moderate success; however, within weakness, there will always be people in the world to take advantage of it, and now; there are new factions wishing to rain control of the woodland, in the modern day…

The Battle for the Conquest of The Woodland has begun.
Many factions have risen again, seeking control. Our story takes place in a section of the Woodland called Ashbark Glen. Ashbark is known for its waning hills with a significant river and waterfalls separating the clearing into almost three levels. Some have also embraced the mountains and can find some communities within the hills and edges of the clearing.

You are a Vagabond, a wanderer through choice or means outside of your control. Despite being one person, you can change Ashbark, or even all of the Woodland’s, future forever.

3/6 Derklord 2025/04/21(Mon)13:47 No. 1106640 ID: 3f89df
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Now, Who Are you?

(Author’s Note:) While this quest involves character creation, the character, depending on the choices, will still be a part of the world and have a backstory, personality, people they know, etc.; character creation mainly dictates who you are.
And just because you are somebody now, it doesn’t mean you can’t think about you later. Also, unused character concepts or ideas will most likely still show up as npc’s

Additional node regarding updates and scope: Also, while I’m here, regarding updates, past character creation will mainly be done in a traditional one-to-two image summary and brief description. While I love my other quests, they do have a problem of being 6-10 images long and being very wordy and ambitious. And while I love them, they can get pretty tiring to update, especially due to medical problems atm and I wish to tone it back slightly with the art style and with the scope and possibly even make this quest daily (Or Hourly, like the old quests).


[1]: Gender:
Note: Despite Woodland being reasonably traditional, Your Gender and/or Sex doesn’t affect that much; anyone of any gender can get to any position, and everybody is treated mainly the same socially.

[A] Male:
[B] Female:
[C] NonBinary:
[D] Other:

4/6 Derklord 2025/04/21(Mon)13:47 No. 1106641 ID: 3f89df
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Species:
Note: Some species are more inherently linked socially to specific factions than others. While it is still common for those of those species not to be supporting or from that faction, especially from a vagabond, some may associate you on first sight with those factions, which may have some advantages and disadvantages. Also, the Woodland is a Unique place, and many different types of species support or have ties to a specific faction. The following showcases some that socially are more so perceived as a certain faction.

Exclusively just means that you aren’t native to the clearing, and your species originates from said faction. You can still choose not to support said faction.
/Denizen means that while they are traditionally associated with the faction, they have enough history in the clearing that some have become denizens.

Cat -> Exclusively: Foreign Invader Marquise De Chat/ Marquise De Chat.
Bird of Prey/Birds -> Eyriee Dynastey/Denzien
Otters: -> The Riverfolk Company
Lizards: ->The Lizard Cult
Moles: Exclusively: The UnderGround Duchy
Corvids: Corvid Conspieracy/Denizen
Badgers: -> Keepers In Iron
Rats: -> Lord of the Hundreds
Bats: -> The Twilight Council
Frogs:-> LillyPad Diasophira/Denizen

Other Species can work for and be part of any faction (Aside from government or significant positions in Eyriee, UnderGround Duchy, and possibly Marquise.), and are generally considered outsiders or denizens of the Woodland.


The Woodland Does Take Place in a Setting Strongly Inspired by North America, especially the more wooded places, most Natural species in North America are/orignated from as denizens, or nearby denizens of the woodland, Other species from other continents. are usually traveller’s

As a Personal Rule of thumb for any suggestions, all anthropomorphic species must be based on a creature up to or smaller than a Wolf; any larger, and most species in the woodland are pretty rare and are commonly looked upon with fear or are considered brutes, Such as a Bear. Still, slight height differences on a usually peaceful creature like Deer can be an exception.

Now, with all that said, here’s a List of Some Species if you can’t think of any on your own! But don’t be shy to suggest something unique! (Bugs and some arachids are not included, as they are considered food/pests/monsters)

-Mouse
-Rat
-Fox
-Bunny/Hare
-Domesticated cat breeds (Great Mane, Bombay, Tabby, Munchkin, etc)
-Lynx
-Bird of Prey: Eagles, Vultures, Owls, etc.
-Birds/SongBirds: Woodpecker, Bluejay, Robin, etc.
-Wolf
-Domesticted dog breeds: (Great Dane, Pug, Golden Retriever, French Bulldog, Etc.)
-Lizard
-Frog/Toad
-Sea/River Otter
-Corvid: (Crows, Ravens, Etc.)
-Moles
-Beaver
-Racoon
-Possom
-Squirrel
-Chipmunk
-Badger
-Bats
-Pig/Boar
-Deer

5/6 Derklord 2025/04/21(Mon)13:47 No. 1106642 ID: 3f89df
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[3]: Background: surviving as a vagabond for some time has made it so you’ve acquired some sort of specialty or way of living to survive the harshness of the woodland and what others closely associate with what jobs you’ll do, your reputation, or an quick backstory.

Note:

-Adventurer

-Arbiter

-Harrier

-Ranger

-Ronnin

-Scoundrel

-Thief

-Tinker

-Vagrant

-Champion

-Chronicler

-Exile

-Envoy

-Heretic

-Pirate

-Prince/Princess

-Racontuer

-Raider

-Seeker

-Charlatan

-Merchant

-Gatherer

-Suggestion/Other?

6/6 Derklord 2025/04/21(Mon)13:47 No. 1106643 ID: 3f89df
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[4]: If any, are there specific factions you have a history with?

-Marquise De Chat

The Marquise de Chat is a Foreign invader from the far-off land of Le Chat with the leader of the colonization/integration of the title same name; they seek ultimately to exploit the woodland for its resources and increase Le Chat’s Power in the Wider World while changing governments, installing hospitals and other programs to end that goal.

They ultimately prefer integration rather than the conquering of unowned clearing. However, they are willing to use force and bloodily punish any crimes.

-Eyriee Dynasties

The Eyriee Dynasties are the former rulers of the Woodland, and they will stop at nothing to spread their influence and reconquer their “Birthright” of the woodland, The Eyiree in most recent times are pretty milltiristiac, however they are also well-known for their style of governance, and byzantine traditions which while flawed, ultimately restores order.

However, infighting and petty squabbling within the Eyriee is common, and soon new leaders may emerge, ultimately changing the Woodland's direction.

-Woodland Alliance

The Woodland Alliance is a collection of dissatisfied denizens, tired of another war within a time of restoration. They are trying to forge a new governance and a new way of life, rebelling against the status quo of the Eyriee and anyone who wishes to control the woodland.

However, there is a very new, disorganized faction within the woodland. While they are fighting for the denizens, the goals and, ultimately mission of the Woodland Alliance are a bit muddy. However, they are very driven and devout about their goals.

-RiverFolk Company

The Riverfolk company is from a nearby place to the Woodland, ultimately wishing to profit from the war-effortthey use an new currency callex selling anything an denizen, or other factions would want, they usually use mercenaries either from their own or from others on the more milltristiac side of things, however in all, they wish for nothing more then members of the colony to trade or barter for goods and services, usually at an marked up price due to demand.

They are also attempting to introduce a new currency into the woodland, River Scrip, a note which indicates a good or service to the owner.

-Lizard Cult

The Lizard cult is an group of ideolgeical lizards who worship an diety called the Grand Dragon, they are heavily opposed to birds, as they believe that they are mockeries of the Grand Dragon's form, while initially beloved on the outset, they have an seedy underbelly only known to higher members.

They try to spread thier influence through community support and projects, making grand expansive gardens, and giving and protecting the downtrodden, converting those to thier side.

-Corvid Conspieracy

The Corvid Conspiracy is spoken in hushed whispers, and deciphered code, while they aren’t many, and aren’t known through their military presence, they have some ties to important contacts and information, ultimately using crime, espionage and planning in order to bend thier influence on the Covid conspiracy.

-UnderGround Duchy

The Great Undeground Duchy have spent most of its time beneath the earth constructing passageways and exploiting various sects of the woodland. They all hope to ultimately subjugate and conquer all of the clearings in the woodland while convincing the woodland through propaganda that having the Duchy as their overlords is terrific.

The primary source which keeps the duchy from being a universal threat is its slowness and general bureaucracy; orders must be done in an increasing chain of command, and all tasks are designated only to a specific person, which ultimately results for the Duchy taking months to commit fully towards an task, however when they do; it is fast, quick, and usually deadly, in the meanwhile, the duchy hopes to rely on the support of their reign on the woodland.

-Keepers of Iron

Less an faction wishing to conquer the woodland, and more an faction with the interests of preserving religious artifacts, that are scattred throughout out both the ruins of by-gone cultures, and histories, and taking them as religious artifacts back home, their mission ultimately resides with this, and will respond only with brute force if others wish to counteract thier mission.

They are incredibly defensive and untrusting of others near their artifacts or wishing to peruse those artifacts, and usually rely on force of their highly trained knights in order to defend themselves. they tend to keep local populations alone, maybe elisting them for work for supply, and items to help them.

-Lord of the Hundreds

The Lord of the hundreds is a conqueror and exploiter, touting himself as the true voice of the woodland, attempting to spread distrust and discomtnemt within the dwellings that they occupy, inciting torch wielding mobs, and large swarming armies to march upon his rightful domain, amassing treasure, wealth and prestige for what game but the Lord.

-Knaves of the Deepwood

The Knaves of the Deepwood are a minor faction of a collection of Vagabonds. While there are quite different groups and places within the Knaves, and it is pretty easy to find hirelings and other positive groups, they are unfortunately most known for their banditry, miscreants and reverly, doing most ultimately for their own goal.

-Twilight Council

Ultimately sickened by the conflict of the war for the woodland, the Twilight council hosts assemblies to try to end the war, attempting to bring together everyone from all social classes into a united council.

The Twilight Council prefers diplomacy and connections rather than military might, attempting to steer the bloody carnage into a heated debate of ideology and politics within the shared clearing, ultimately manipulating other factions into their ideal.


-Lilypad Disphoria

The Lilypad Disphoria is a group of frogs and denizens who have lived within the woodland for a while and wish to integrate peacefully. However, they know that peace in a civil war doesn’t come easily. As they prepare their weapons and arm themselves, it is a constant struggle within the faction between treating outsiders with peace, and their more protective militaristic agendas, does not spiral into confused chaos within the woodland, and the denizens that live inside it.

N/A/Other:

Denizen, Traveller, Contractor, or those who do not have any political allegiance to any faction.

[5] Finally, what’s your name?

Female
Inari Fox
Envoy
Eyriee Dynasties - They've been receptive to a secret alliance as they build up an army, military and social, to retake the continent. They have no idea what they're inviting in and how much it's going to cost everyone.
Kumi

Name:Sam
Gender: Female but presents as androgynous to strangers.
Species: Ferret
Bacground: Merchant
History: Used to work with the Woodland Aliance as a smuggler and information gatherer but became disenchanted when it became clear that their lack of planning/organization wasn't improving.

1/3 Kumi 2025/04/22(Tue)16:08 No. 1106713 ID: 3f89df
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Your name is Kumi, a female Innari Fox from the distant lands of Shinto. You came to Ashbark Glen half a decade ago. Looking for your own personal Fame and fortune in an chaotic and trembling lands, you’re uses as an vagabond have been primarily political, being an envoy to various sub-factions within the Eyriee dynasties, you're secretly supporting the Phoenix Thorne, Sub-faction; run by an giant orange-colored falcon called FlameHeart; but the specifics of whom your supporting bore you, one day it won’t be FlameHeart calling the shots, It’ll be you, and the reverous life that you deserve after all your laboring as an vagabond for hire, meanwhile you’ve had an secret alliance secondary alliance with the underground Duchy, and to an lesser extent the Marquise, who after an entire year of back and forth negotiations, have given their support for both your minor faction, and the political take-over of both Flame-Heart, and in the near-future, the entire Eyriee Dyansties.

Now, you're here in Bloom-Wood, to rest and find additional supporters and men for

I sigh the weight of a thousand moons, as I drown my sorrows with second-rate mead. I've gotten used to its sub-par taste, but it always gives a longing for more within my fragile little heart. It’s getting stuffy in this cloak.

“What troubles you, traveller?” The old innkeeper, whose wares scream of attempting to relive his glory days, says in a concerned voice.

“It’s none of your business,” I respond with apparent disinterest.

“Well then.” He responds then looking towards the other crowds who are reverling within the excitement of the tavern, there’s a mouse to the far left of the stage, playing an ditty on their lute, then back to me juxtaposed perfectly, I hope he wonders about if I got his insulation for the rest of his life.

“You from around these parts? can’t recognize you with that cloak over your mug.”

I don’t respond, and he looks around, noticing some nearby patrons he happily goes over to them, chats them up and fulfills their orders before walking back over to me, then leaving over in a conspiratorial whisper. “You hiding cause there’s someone after you're hiding from?”
Technically, there isn’t anyone in particular in , well.. I have a couple of enemies in BloomHeart that I wouldn't want to see, but they wouldn't be here in this place anyway.


“How can I be sure, you're no criminal like… Highway Poon?” He outstretched his hand over to his community board with plasterings of wanted posters of local criminals and thugs, then back to me. “Cause unless I have a hint of who you are, I won’t be able to serve you stranger.” I sigh, but then oblige, taking off my hood to reveal my face; The fox looks back at me with renewed interest. “You're good.” He looks me up and down. “Glad to see another fox around here, but I don’t recognize you, where are you from?” I hope I’m showing that I’m clearly not interested in his small talk; I shift myself around the seat and then look at him. “Out of town, you do lodging here?”

He initially looks dejected, but quickly straightens himself up and looks up towards the roof. “Yes, Siree Miss and for a low price of three silver coins.”
It’s still a bit pricey, but it’s reasonable for the quality. As I reach for my coin purse, another patron decides to mosey up to the seat next to me.

2/3 Kumi 2025/04/22(Tue)16:09 No. 1106714 ID: 3f89df
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They are a Ferret, of Adgogynus build, with gear not unlike my own; they look to be roughly around my age, with a worn-out green tunic, covered head to toe, with dirt and grime, the only thing they seem to have of wealth is a singular emerald necklace, which goes around their chest.

“Hey there!” They say to me in an almost recognizable charlatan tone.
“My name is Sam, Travelling merchant, and keeper of adventure, stories, and mythical artifacts.”
I’ve heard of this type before - a scam artist telling made-up tales for a quick profit. While they could help me out shortly to legitimize their rule, I’d prefer someone with whom I have better connections.

“Drinks are on me! Harold, please give my friend and me a large cup of your finest wine!”
They loudly state towards me, before leaning over and putting their hand over my shoulder. “Based on your dress.. I’d say, you're one of those vagabond sort?”
She pauses to wait for my reply, but when I don’t comply, they continue.
“Me too! The adventure of rags to riches is something that is commonly sought after, but never comes to fruition, but you seem to be a hard-working sort who made that dream a reality.” I respond with added silence, and their joyful demeanour becomes slightly mocking.

“Silent type, huh? I don’t judge, it’s a harsh world out there, with people who are out to bite ya.” They mimic their hands with their teeth, chuckling, and then look at me, their tone gazing into my eyes. “Nobody comes to a tavern just for some good ale and an rest, so here’s some info.”

“Recently, my band of associates and I... Had a typical disagreement over something minor, and kept something of mine that’s quite personal to me. You seem like the type to get your hands dirty, so I’ll give you an offer: help me get that object back, and I’ll give you about thirty-five silver total in various factional currencies, or three in specific, it’s a quick job.”

If it's rapid and painless, as they say, then that’s more than enough for the job, although getting in trouble wouldn’t be ideal. I do need the money for political reasons.

As if noticing my apprehension, they included an additional offer.
“No matter what you end up deciding, I’ll give you this necklace, a gift of my appreciation for hearing me out.”
Sly, a gift, so I have a feeling of needing to pay them back. They have the smarts. I take the necklace from their hands and examine it closely—a ruby enamelled necklace with no traces of poison or any concomitants. I put it around my neck and turn to Sam.
“Now about the job….”
But instead of replying, they look at me with a large grin on their face, like they're… waiting for something?

3/3 Kumi 2025/04/22(Tue)16:09 No. 1106716 ID: 3f89df
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But what? Is it about the job? Do they wish for me to compliment them? Honestly I’m getting quite annoyed at- then in a scene of pure magic, I hear it. I hear them..


Note: The audience this time around is an Orb of Infinite Psyche-Like, mostly for the ease of being able to switch to different party members. However, Magic isn’t truly a thing in this world, or at least.. Things considered magical have been lost in the ancient constructs of time and are in ruins, so please don’t get too meta with it. Talk/Suggest to Kumi at your heart’s content!

Oh, hello! We can see your scheming history!

Hey there! Are you ready to get in way over your head? Not with the job, that's easy and straight forward, but with us!

So hows that drink?

Aaayyeee we're in a new skull! How ya doin new friend?
So before you ask no you're not crazy, yes you're really hearing us, no we don't know how we work.
Now basics:We are a chaotic conclave of disembodied voices, we can offer you advise and information but are under no obligation to be truthful and don't necessarily know what you need to know. That said most of us try to be helpful.
Oh and don't talk out loud to us or everybody will think you're crazy, just think at us real hard and we should understand you.

1/3 Kumi 2025/04/24(Thu)12:14 No. 1106839 ID: 3f89df
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>>1106738

ACK!!! WH-

>>1106772

WHY ARE THERE VOICES IN MY HEAD, AM I- WAIT.

So wait, are you.. that emerald on my neck? A whole bunch of voices, advisors? Commentators? You're not weird magic spirits? Sorry, it’s just a lot to take in all at once.

I give myself a second to compose myself, upon hearing what has to be magic.

Okay, okay.. Maybe this is something I can recognize, maybe this is something that I could use, maybe this is something that could be useful for me later, helpful, huh? Okay, despite how strange this is, I accept it.

>Oh, hello! We can see your scheming history!

Oh shoot, wait, how much? Wait, scratch that; you're not a weird telepathic gem thing tied to Sam, right? Well, if you are/are communicating with Sam, please make yourself useful and not tell them? I’d be doing lots of hard work down the drain, and another voice that I’d rather not silence.

>So hows that drink?

Mediocre Blasse, Inferior, Pedestrian, the bottom of the barrel hops. I go to take another drink, probably to recount my frayed nerves after this encounter, and yep, it’s still as terrible as expected, doesn't even give a good buzz.

I must be crazy to respond casually to voices inside my head.

I look back over to Sam, who looks actively giddy with overly contained excitement.

“Weren't expecting that huh? Not fibbing an lie about those mythological artifacts?”
They say with an amused expression. That’s surprisingly true, maybe.. Maybe she’s more than just some Charlatan, I’m sure they notice my heightened attention.
“So, about the job, you’se gonna take it? Or no?”

I nod in response as they visibly jump up and out of their seat.
“Good Good! Follow me, I’ll tell you the details once we get there.”
They wave me over, beckoning to come with.

Normally, I wouldn’t for fear of getting shivved, however, this seems to be too much effort for a simple robbery, so I go and follow them out of the inn and back towards the streets of BloomHeart.

2/3 Kumi 2025/04/24(Thu)12:14 No. 1106840 ID: 3f89df
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A crispy scent of chopped wood follows us as Sam leads me through the city, until we get to a stretch of mid-perstige farms, sawmills, and other miscellaneous properties, facing the riverside. We travel four quarters, and then they stop and look out towards the property.

“That’s where my associates and I used to work and do our meetings, after… our disagreement, they wouldn’t let me back into my quarters or heck, even through the front door, I have pretty important documents that are essential for my job.”

Your job is to sneak your way inside and find a stachel, which has a family engraving of weasels, trees, flowers, the whole shebang. It’ll most likely be in what used to be my quarters, which have two scratch marks on the front door. If it isn’t, it’s probably in the meeting/dining room. You aren’t allowed to read what’s inside. I’ll know if you did, and your payment will be void, and I’d be quite upset.”

3/3 Kumi 2025/04/24(Thu)12:14 No. 1106841 ID: 3f89df
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I look out at the property, which has a stone wall leading to a large garden and is surrounded by areas that haven’t been cleared for use or travel, and a small cabin next to a stack of firewood. Before I can finish thinking of a plan, Sam tugs on my shoulder and looks me in the eye, pointing up towards the sky.

“Please, under no circumstances kill anybody within there, okay? And please keep violence to an all-time minimum.” I don’t need that kind of heat at the moment, but if you have to resort to violence, give me a signal or tell me so I/we can skip town, K?”

I give Sam a Courtesy Nod and keep their warnings in check. Now I need to think of ideas or plans on how to break into this place.

well to start, how is your climbing? Can you scale the wall, get on the roof?

Also while he's still there ask how many people are likely to be in the building. any guards?

1/3 Kumi 2025/04/29(Tue)14:23 No. 1107223 ID: 3f89df
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>>1106863

>Ask Sam about how many people may be inside the building, any guards?

[color=#005319] “Hmmm, Well it overall depends on what our projects are, but unless plans change from dusk to dawn, I’d say there’d be around like six people on the property, one of which is the owner’s husband, and the other is their child. The rest are people affiliated with my ex-group.” [/c]

[color=#005319] “In terms of guards, no not really; they're not rich enough for stuff like that; but some of the people in the group have ex-military experience so some are wearing rapiers, swords, axes that stuff on their person, I think Roger the Badger has some armor on him as well; that’s the main one you’d want to avoid, he’s pretty lawful and righteous and is quite confrontational.” [/c]

[color=#6A0803] “Is that all you’d want to say?” [/c]

They give them a polite nod then begin walking away.
[color=#005319] “K, meet me in the left-side forest when you're done or give me some sort of signal if the job goes awry, I’ll see or hear it.” [/c]
I then turn my attention towards the property itself.

>well to start, how is your climbing? Can you scale the wall, get on the roof?

My climbing’s okay, I’d probably not accept these kinds of jobs if I didn’t have any martial skills to compensate. It wasn't my true station in life, but mommy dearest trained me and my siblings anyway for the sake of our clan when I was younger.

I with an jump and an well-timed roll, get onto the other side of the property, with minimal noise, I keep an ear out for any potential movement, I can hear somebody watering the gardens; and another chopping some firewood, North-East and West Respectively, but probably at the distance where they shouldn't see me;

I attempt to scale the wall, the boards are an type that doesn't stick out quite easily and are quite hard so this may be an challenge

2/3 Kumi 2025/04/29(Tue)14:23 No. 1107224 ID: 3f89df
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D20 Dice Roll: >Result: 15

I go up the walls of the property reaching above the second story with minimal noise and fanfare, going up to the roof, which I quickly tell hasn't been cleaned at all in awhile.

Crap.. I’m gonna have to get my fur and clothes cleaned somewhere unless I want to smell like mold and soot, but the pay can compensate for that. I look up to where the chimney is sticking out of; It’s currently stocked so that’s an no-go unless I want to plunge myself in fire.

There are some beams around the window level that I can tiptoe around on the second floor; the question is, where should I go? I guess it doesn't matter if there’s no one inside.

I quietly drop down to the second-floor beams, facing the north side, facing towards the river. From a short distance looking west, I can see some sort of Older-Aged Skink with a sundress watering the flowers, alongside a littler one with a blueish tint. It must be the owner; I take a quick peek inside the nearest window, and it seems vacant. I check the window; Yep, unlocked. I open it and go inside, closing it behind me before examining the room further.

3/3 Kumi 2025/04/29(Tue)14:23 No. 1107225 ID: 3f89df
File 174596182746.png - (372.60KB , 1600x1200 , Uh oh is that flag what I think it is.png )

It’s a split room, with some personal artifacts here, including a chest, a closet, and items on the wall. Laid in the corner is a work desk, a bow, and some arrows; however, I can’t seem to find Sam’s Statchel, so this probably isn’t their room.

I do have some options here while I formulate my next plan on what to do next; I could try going from window to window, go into the hall to try to find Sam’s room, or go down to the dining/meeting room like Sam suggested.

And while I’m here with my bag on my back, I could also pocket a couple of things for myself; sure, they may not be rich, but they seem to be getting by. This place reeks of broken backs and entrepreneurs, in a desperate attempt to become middle-class. Besides, I don’t care much for the plight of Bloomwood’s residents that much; they're in woodland alliance territory, but that’s just young radicals, so the risk isn’t that great. But I’ll let my new advisors make themselves useful and comment on what I should do next.

Time for some sticky fingers! Aim for things small and tradable. Just one or two things though, and probably not money since who knows which faction you'll be trading with next.

Otherwise.... peek into the hall to see if it's safe and head through there

Don't get side tracked, someone could walk in at any moment. check a peek at the hall

1/2 Kumi 2025/04/30(Wed)09:54 No. 1107304 ID: 3f89df
File 174603204789.png - (517.97KB , 1600x1200 , oh wow shes actually kind of cute.png )

>>1107236

>>1107256

Well, one of you is certainly less fun than the other, but fine; a job’s still a job, I’ll peek my head out and *then* decide what to do next.

>Pepole’s Check D20: 16

I don’t seem to hear anybody, down in the hall, peeking out more; nobody’s in the hall, hallway’s slightly basic, just a whole bunch of side rooms leading to one bigger door at the end, probably some sort of office space, the only risk I hear is two people talking, one feminine one masculine at the bottom of the stairway, but there’s no change in elavation, and the cracking of some sort of hard shells in the second right room.

Given the safe status, I’ll just take a quick peek around this room for goodies before I move on.

>Don’t take money, you won’t know who we’ll trade with next.

>Make sure it’s small, tradable things as well.

Good call. Besides, woodland alliance currency is worthless anyway. Some may spout that it’ll increase in value once the alliance wins the war, but I heavily doubt it.
Wars are won by the educated, and a misfit group led by an ex-veteran farmer isn’t going to win against the backing of kingdoms.

I quickly searched through the drawers and things readily accessible; I found some small wood art
Engravings and some small pieces of jewelry that I can snag, and just for good measure, I take the arrows that somebody had made, who knows if we’ll need it, it’s been about a minute or so.

Finally finishing, with my quick personal heist, I stick my head out again, no divisible change…

I freeze and quickly retreat my face inside as a squirrel lady opens the door, with a container full of cracked nuts, and goes down the hall, then the stairs, acting as if nothing is out of the ordinary.

2/2 Kumi 2025/04/30(Wed)09:54 No. 1107305 ID: 3f89df
File 174603205281.png - (477.87KB , 1600x1200 , theres really only two options when you really thi.png )

Once her steps start to fade away with the chatting group, I go out towards the hallway, now’s the perfect time. Now, if Sam was telling the truth, there’s a chance it would be located in their room. However, besides symbols, there’s no real way to tell at a glance whose is whose.

Looking closely at the hall, I can see the following symbols, excluding the ones that are not them, such as an acorn, and a banner with two smaller horns on it, and the one I’m currently in.

[Room 1] A door with an icon of a sword.
[Room 2] A door whose icon depicts some sort of jewelry
[Room 3] A room that has an icon with a note on it
[Room 4] A room with a hammer on it.

Then, there were various other unmarked rooms in the hallway, I’d be good to get this right, since I wouldn’t want to walk in on anybody in particular, that’d make this job a lot more complicated.

Advisors, what do you think?

They said their room would have two scratch marks on the door, is that not there?

Well without knowing anything about the people living here, the only clue is that our ferret was wearing an amulet, so try that door.

1/1 Kumi 2025/05/02(Fri)12:33 No. 1107405 ID: 3f89df
File 174621441422.png - (639.38KB , 1600x1200 , ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.png )

>>1107331

>They said their room would have two scratch marks on the door, is that not there?

Oh! You're right; I think the close encounter with the squirrel might have jostled me a bit too much. I’ll go look at the doors in more detail;

Looking at all of the doors provided, it’s a lot smaller than expected, but Sam’s room seems to correlate with the postcard, upon looking at the details of the door.

Opening it, It’s an huge contrast to the room I was previously in, papers, clothes, objects are scattered everywhere, yet within the chaos is a hidden order, binders lists and other elements perfectly orderly and categorized, like someone engrossing themselves in one thing in particular, and forgetting the rest however; as I step inside I remind myself of the goal, and begin searching for it.

>Check to See if Statchel is in their room: Success.

I find their satchel that almost obviously mirrors their description, and leave it for now, taking an step back, to just evaluate their environment, I see notes and lists on the walls and unopened letters, also scattered throughout.

Some of which quite surprise me, there’s a quite thorough list of names, alongside an rough draft map of Ashbark Glen, Clippings of News regarding certain events of it, And a list of names that I don’t necessarily recognize, upon many less incrementing things.

It seems like our Sam here has a bit more than initially meets the eye. It makes a fox curious, really; as someone who is equally perceptive to the woodland; as I take out the satchel and look upon it, the contents oozing with hidden secrets, and factional whispers, I’m brought to a decision.

Should I open it and look upon Sam’s Business? Or should I continue my job, and let myself out of it?

Of course you should look in the bag. The real question is how will he know if you do?

Shield your eyes for now. If Sam truly has a lot of connections, ones not even you know about. Losing their trust by peeking into things could be a fatal mistake. Steel yourself from temptation, and stick to the mission at hand.

1/4 Kumi 2025/05/05(Mon)12:00 No. 1107571 ID: 3f89df
File 174647163446.png - (389.50KB , 1600x1200 , Sigh you deffintley had to rewrite the update didn.png )

>>1107413

>Open the bag.

Of course, with this amount of information, this job may pay more than whatever Silver I’m provided. Just got to detach the hooks and-

>>1107477


>Shield your eyes for now. If Sam truly has a lot of connections, ones not even you know about. Losing their trust by peeking into things could be a fatal mistake. Steel yourself from temptation, and stick to the mission at hand.


… You're right, in politics Trust is one of the most safe gifts that someone can give you.. And even if I discover important information, If we lose that trust, it can mean I lose those connections, and the chance of a future ally.

Besides, maybe they’ll just casually tell me that information once it becomes relevant, although I do wonder what would happen if I did open the bag.

I sigh then put on their pack, It’ll be an uncomfortable fit, and might make a bit of noise but I need the hands. I can overhear people outside, and the breezing of the grass, and the clambering of wood and hands.


Okay, now it’s just trying to get out of here, going back from where I came, as long as I’m quiet and I don’t make any sound, It’ll be easy.

>Stealth Roll: 14.

While the other bag does seem to hit the sides of the doorways when I go in and out of the room, and I may be an teensy bit louder then I’d like, I don’t think I was noticed, and if I was; they probably think it was someone else, finally I return to the room, the sun beaming in from the windowsill, an beckon towards the nice juicy reward of payment..

As I step back onto the outskirts of the windowsill, the air blows on my ears, and the two-story drop below is all that remains as I descend the sides of the building.

2/4 Kumi 2025/05/05(Mon)12:00 No. 1107572 ID: 3f89df
File 174647163895.png - (321.41KB , 1600x1200 , oh shit an slip.png )

>Athletics Roll. + Stealth Roll. (15 A, 17 S)

While descending, I feel my foot slip slightly, enough to make a tiny bit of noise, but not enough to result in anything. I brace myself for Sam’s former colleagues to burst through the door, looking for me. Still, they never do, and I manage to get back down onto the grass below. It feels strangely comforting amidst the anxiety, and with some more athleticism and hushed anger, to catch bags, I finally leave the property and dash back onto the unsuspecting road.

I look back, scanning to see if there’s any sense of them looking for me; after a couple of minutes, only the wind responds, so I slow down and try to appear inconspicuous, while I go down the road, towards the hill where the treelines begin.

As I approach them, I see Sam appear from the trees, looking quite happy that I most likely didn’t make a fool of myself.

He gestures for me to follow him slightly into the edges of the woods, most likely for our privacy, and I comply.

3/4 Kumi 2025/05/05(Mon)12:00 No. 1107573 ID: 3f89df
File 174647164239.png - (614.65KB , 1600x1200 , you know this would be more serious if scunk cabba.png )

Finally, they sit upon a log resting three feet away from what could be considered a forested marsh. Some skunk cabbage and small trails are nearby.

“So you finished your mission? Were there any problems you ran into?”

He looks at me with a wincing optimism, probably hoping I'll tell the truth, but still open to doubt, I comply.

“It was an easy job, I could have gotten caught by some squirrel girl if I wasn’t careful, but besides that no-one saw me, and no-one knew I was there.”
I say it as it is, while stretching my used muscles.

“Good good.” He says somewhat dismissively, before turning his attention to his satchel.

“The Statchel, please.” I comply, but just as I pull the statchel from my shoulder, he looks at me seriously.

“So tell me. Did you look through it?” he says coldly, with a terrifying expression. The satchel’s belt is now around my hands.

Despite my better judgment, my mouth gets the better of me, automatically telling it how it was with no shame of sin.
“No, I was considering for a while..since I noticed from your room that.. You have much more you’d like to hide than initially meets the eye.” His mouth winces slightly.

I continued where my mouth didn’t.
“But, I decided not to, I think I’d rather earn your trust instead, as that would be more valuable.”

“The statchel.” He says plainly, his hand outstretched to pick it up, I comply.

As he grabs onto it, he takes a few steps back, then looks into the satchel, scanning it quickly, and, to my confused disgust, quickly sniffs it. Well, it startles me slightly, but Sam just closes his satchel, puts it on, and his Vanier of optimism reappears.

4/4 Kumi 2025/05/05(Mon)12:00 No. 1107574 ID: 3f89df
File 174647164705.png - (558.34KB , 1600x1200 , Derklord no dont you dare add quasi romantic tensi.png )

“You're telling the truth! I knew it was best to hire someone like you- Oh, before I forgot, what kind of currency would you prefer?”
He says, reaching into his pocket and unzipping his pouch.

“I’d prefer Eyriee, but I’m fine with Marquise or Riverfolk Scrip,” I say plainly, crossing my arms.

“Hmm..” He says as he’s rummaging through his pouch. “A bit low on Eyrie-based funds, could you spare a 40/10/10 split on Marquise, local and Eyrie?

It’s not the best, but it's valuable, and his body language doesn’t seem to indicate that he’s lying. “That’s fine.”
He then gives me 40 Silver of Marquise, 10 of Woodland Alliance and 10 of Eyrie, which I quickly pocket.

He sighs and looks up towards the colourful dusk sky. “You know, you don’t meet many vagabonds who are true to their word in this day; everyone’s out for themselves within the conflict of the woodland, so thank you.” Sam gives me a warm smile.

I know I don’t do well with compliments. And I begin to blush? Nope, nope, that’s quickly going away; you have to keep things professional here. He laughs softly, clearly losing most of the tension kept within him, as he turns his direction towards the city, his tail wagging slightly.

“Unless you’ve got business to attend to or wanna keep your brooding mystique, do you mind coming with me back into town? The night’s still young, and having a bit of rest between your work never hurt anybody. Besides, you want to earn my trust, right? Well, let’s get to know each other a bit more than just business partners.”

While he does give me the option to go on my own and explore town, I’m presuming that if we're both going, we’ll individually pay for wherever we go. As for specifics, it seems Sam knows this place like the back of his thumb. While it’s no City, it is a trade-based town, so most services should be expected here

So where should I/We Go? And on the way there, should there be anything we talk about?

Ask if there's any good entertainment in this town, musicians or plays and the like. While you're at it ask how long he's been in the area.

1/4 Kumi 2025/05/06(Tue)13:09 No. 1107617 ID: 3f89df
File 174656219604.png - (625.82KB , 1600x1200 , cute little fox hair scrunchy.png )

>> 1107601

>Ask if there’s any good entertainment around town.

He looks at you thoughtfully, then scratches his chin.
“Hmmm, well, yes; but it all depends on what you want in.. “Entertainment”, and what parts of town you’d like to go too.”

“What about plays, musicians, any of those sort?” Sam’s eyes widen and then gives off a little playful smirk, before stepping aside, and without warning tossiling my hair.

“Guess you are a City gal, ain’t you? No, Bloom-Heaven doesn’t have theatres, bands, plays, any of that sort, the only thing that could even be considered such an event would be the festivals, but those are more so community-run, and the next festival isn’t in a month or so.”

I quickly take his hand and snip back at him.
“Wh-what’s the big idea? You can’t just touch someone out of the blue like that. What if I’m someone important? You wouldn’t do that to a noble, right?”
No one would consider me a noble, yet. But I hate it when somebody handles me as a lovely communal peasant; they remind me of my brothers.

He takes his hands away and looks apologetic for a split second before turning to me, and saying in a matter-of-fact tone.
“Well, unless you want to confess to being some sort of runaway princess, to everybody else, you're just another vagabond like me, worth less than dirt, and potentially dangerous.”

I don’t respond, and after a while, he just sighs.
“It’s all right, everyone on their road has their secrets, and reasons for being here.”

He gives me a mischievous look before continuing…
“But….. based on your reaction, you must be the closeted sort, or used to some amount of comfort that most out here don’t get, your brushed fur, your eyeliner; you look as if you're ready to step into those binding corsets and go to some posh ball.”

2/4 Kumi 2025/05/06(Tue)13:10 No. 1107618 ID: 3f89df
File 174656220082.png - (362.40KB , 1600x1200 , shes trying to look angry.png )

I attempt to change the topic, I cough loudly.
“Ahem, so; entertainment in Bloom-heaven.”

He just chuckles and gives me a wink before returning to the road
“Well, if it was music you're looking for, this ain’t the right place, there are a few musicians, but when there is one, it’s usually just someone’s wealthy kid who can afford that lifestyle, or some vagabonds looking for some quick cash from the riverfolk, before going to the bigger cites.”

“But since this is a popular resting and trading spot, many businesses have sprouted up alongside the river, mainly for the travellers, traders, and caravans that sort, maybe you’ll see a musician or promoter in the trading square, either for trips or for promoting some sort of business.”

“So what are our options?” I say bluntly trying to get to the point.

He sighs dramatically, obviously humouring me.
“Well, on the righteous part of town, there are Taverns, for some beer and a good time, the training/colorompetition field a place full of various sports and training equipment, where townies,occasionally host small tournaments for fun, we have the local church, but I’m persuiming that’s too boring for someone like you.”

He pauses before resuming.
“You could walk or buy something from the market, go to the either local or through trade; go to the bathhouse, or maybe just go around and meet people, but that’s something I consider fun, considering your outlook, maybe not so much.”

I dislike these back-handed compliments, but he’s just a town dweller, so I let it slide.

“Anything else?” I say snapping lightly.

3/4 Kumi 2025/05/06(Tue)13:10 No. 1107619 ID: 3f89df
File 174656220457.png - (436.67KB , 1600x1200 , talking and chatting chatty chatter.png )

“Well..” he says, giving a conspiratorial grin.
“Down by the docks, many; we could say the townspeople would call.. Seedy, that can satisfy most desires, I’m talking about various drug merchants, gambling houses, and small arenas/fighting rings have set up around there, oh, and we obviously couldn’t forget the brothels, those are pretty popular among travellers and vagabonds alike.”

Wait, how would he know that? Does that mean he frequents..

Probably sensing the creeping blush on my face, he continues.
“Some places require passcodes or specific rights of entry, but you don’t have to worry; they’ll allow us in.”

“But why the passcode and secrecy? Dosen’t that hurt business?"

Sam sighs, like he’s trying to explain basic concepts to a toddler.
“Look, the people of Bloom-Heaven are a Hard-working, Traditional, Religious bunch, and even though they had to open up the docks, so they could trade and be connected to the rest of the world.. They don’t necessarily agree with what’s going on by the docks, I’m presuming you're intelligent enough to put two and two together..”

I nod, it makes sense that rules are put in place for a reason; the underbelly of cities I’ve discovered is much more lawful than you’d initially think.

“So, how do you know all of this, Sam? Did you grow up here?”

“I’d answer that, but I don’t think I got your name. What is it?”

“Kumi.”

“Kumi! That’s a pretty name! For a pretty girl.” He says, patting me on the back.
“....”

“Well, about Bloom-Heaven, no, I’m not from here; I grew up near here, but it’s not my secret to divulge. Around six years ago, I came to Bloom-Heaven for work, and I found them; with my previous band of associates, they had big plans, big ideas on how things could change, and I hoped to spark that change, helping them as well as I could. But.. years went by, with very minor changes and little progress.”

“In my time here, I learned a lot about the locals, the surrounding regions, and most of the things troubling this region, and although I wish I could help.. There are only so many things one person can do, besides.. The people here are strong; they’ll find a way to fix their problems.”

“What about you, what’s your history here?”

“Well…” I say, rubbing the back of my head. “Not much..”

4/4 Kumi 2025/05/06(Tue)13:10 No. 1107620 ID: 3f89df
File 174656221154.png - (590.09KB , 1600x1200 , you where too lazy too draw the actual city whernt.png )

“I mainly have business within Eyriee territory in the north, so Bloom-heaven is more of a rest-stop in between these regions. I’ve come here to sleep, stock on supplies, eat, drink, then leave and go north.”

“That’s fair, I often hear things like that from other vagabonds.”

I can hear the market chatter as we stand atop a hill, overlooking the town.

“So Kumi, you decided where you wish to go? No need to think I’ll judge you whatever you choose, I’ve seen worse in my time.”

I look upon the city, the cries and shouts of the marketplace, standing across, wood-erected buildings up a hill, where those who travel here call their home, contrasted with the quietness
Of the main inhabited of the city, where the sawing of wood can be heard from a mile away.

I let myself breathe to take it all in.

And then I decide me and Sam we are going too….
List for reference:

Townie Focused:

Town Square/Town Trade Market.

Competitive Field (Training and Rec)

Go to a Local Tavern, or go back to Wandering Hope Inn.

The Bathhouse (You pervs)

The Church:

Wandering Around Town:


Trader Focused/Docks:

Dock Trading Market:

Exploring The Dock:

Drug Merchants:

Gambling Houses:

Underground Arenas/Rings

Brothel (You pervs x 10)


Or you can decide to allow Sam to decide where you’ll go.

Well you did want to clean the roof smell off, so why not visit the bath house. Its not pervy, you'll have a towel.

Plus you'll know whether he's a perv or a gentleman, based on if he tries to peep.

1/5 Kumi 2025/05/07(Wed)18:08 No. 1107687 ID: 3f89df
File 174666652471.png - (500.03KB , 1600x1200 , the teasing contiunes.png )

>Well you did want to clean the roof smell off, so why not visit the bath house. Its not pervy, you'll have a towel.

……

Yes, but... it’s a town whose divine right is separated from the outside world's opinions, so who knows what kind of customs they have there?

I’d much prefer an independent, catered bath where only a few servants could see me, but I’m pursuing the idea that they don’t sell those services to vagabonds.

Maybe I don’t smell, and the grime from the dirt was only something that I could see? Well, It’s better just to ask.

“Sam, do I smell at all?” Sam looks at me. Then ponders for a bit. In the way that you know someone’s about to tell you bad news.

“Well…Like a Swamp, mixed with a teensy aroma of mould.” Well, now I just feel embarrassed for not noticing.

“No thanks to you.”

“Huh? What? I’m just saying things as it is-”

“No dumbass, your roof, that thing was never cleaned ever since it was constructed, you just let millions colonies of who knows what grow up there.”

“Oh, well; Most of the time we wore boots, when going up there, and well it wasen’t really important to us, didn’t want to make the place fancy for fancy city thieves.”

“Oh, so while you were up there, you just rolled in that stuff? I don’t think anyone would consider that an elegant bath, but-” He says jokingly.

I give him what could only be considered a death glare; he just chuckles it off.

“So, we're going to the bath-house? Well, I didn’t think you’d be so forward so soon!” He gives me a smirk after his dramatic tirade.

“Don’t get any ideas.” I give a low growl.

“No, no, of course not, let the princess have her privacy of course, since she’s oh, so ashamed of herself.”

I feel like beating him up for that comment, Now he’s getting on my nerves.
“Shut it. ” I command

“Well, I will, since I’m the nicest vagabond you’d meet on the road; although.. The bathhouse might have some.. Secrets you’d want to divulge..” He says, oh so knowingly.

“Fine, you can continue.” I say as we skid down a hillside, and pass the gates of the town.

2/5 Kumi 2025/05/07(Wed)18:08 No. 1107688 ID: 3f89df
File 174666653220.png - (778.08KB , 1600x1200 , the market share.png )

“Well, I don’t know if this is important.. But, well.. every townie in this town knows everyone, and since this one’s up the hill rather than by the docks, the baths are.. shall we say.. Mixed? Don’t worry, everybody still wears towels and keeps modest.”

I know where this is going, It’s like I’m in an absurdist comedy where I’m the punch line.

“Well, why don’t we take the ones by the docks?”

“Well, it depends, do you want somebody in the market’s first impression of you to be a vagabond, smelling of mould, and insect dung?”

“Why are you making fun of me Sam?” I say, ultimately defeated.

“Well.. I don’t tend to meet people like you very often, usually I’m a social butterfly and a gentleman, but..your an easy target to pick on.. and, you also look cute when your blushing~”

“END OF CONVERSATION.”
Stupid face, wish I were born a tall, scary lizard instead. A crocodile, perhaps?

We walk through the village market square as we head toward our destination. Processed wood and lumber, insect chitin, and various foods and fruits litter the hall. I recognize a couple of faces, but I don’t respond. Sam, meanwhile, greets everyone with a friendly wave and hello.

Once he’s done with the pleasantries, Sam returns to my side and has a different conversation.

“So, where are you from?”

“Outside.”

“Well, everyone’s technically born outside on the Terra we stand on-”

“Outside the Woodland.”

“Oh! I see; mind telling me, or is that a secret I must give you a couple of beers to divulge?”

“.....”

“Alright, I’ll respect your privacy, although I guess it makes sense I haven’t seen anyone like you before.”

He scans me, then looks down at the most obvious odd characteristic, here we go again..

“What’s with your tails?”

“Genetic, can you ask different questions?”

“It must be hard.” He says in an oddly sombre tone.

“What?”

“Must be hard being so identifiable, everyone remembers the two-tailed fox; and well.. Being forgotten is a vagabond's biggest strength, especially when you steal a farmer's apples to scrape by.”

“No, it’s alright. In my line of work, making a memorable first impression means anything, and when you're so different from others in the woodland, it makes them think in a way that you don’t have any attachment to the woodland. Which is a useful thought to exploit.”

“Well, that. And I guess you must miss your family. Them being so far away.”

“I don’t really care about my family.”

“Oh?” He says, quite puzzled. “And why’s that?”

“.....”

3/5 Kumi 2025/05/07(Wed)18:08 No. 1107689 ID: 3f89df
File 174666653766.png - (561.67KB , 1600x1200 , oddly wholesome.png )

“Right, right, right. Anything you like doing? When you're not working, I mean.”

“Well, I like reading.”

“Reading? You seem like that kind of sort.”

“Wh- Never mind, I also like War Games, Psychology, Dance, History, basically some academic, some personal stuff.”

“Dance huh? Mind showing me a move right now?”

“You want the one who smells bad, to get sweaty?”

“I’ve smelled way, way worse in my time.”

“Mhmm.. well… these clothes aren’t the right fit for it anyway, this bandana especially.”

“Ah, do we need to go on over to the brothel, to get the right clothes for you?”

I’d splash water on his face if I could.

“It’s not that kind of dancing you pervert.”

“Just messing with you.”

“Well, what about you? what do you like doing?”

“Hmm. Well, I like barter, light performance, fishing, tunnelling, archery and when I go the cities, I like watching their plays.”

“What kind of play?” I say teasingly. “ The adult kind, perhaps?” Hoping to give him a taste of his own medicine.

Sam just chuckles lightly, winks, then continues.
“Comedies, don’t know why I like them so much, guess it’s just a way for people to cope, and laugh about the world.”

“Oh, guess where here already.” What stands in front of us is a modest building, with only a few signs pointing to its true nature, as a bath-house.

4/5 Kumi 2025/05/07(Wed)18:09 No. 1107690 ID: 3f89df
File 174666654101.png - (483.22KB , 1600x1200 , no your not allowed in because isenuineriungnise.png )

“Guess it’s time to go in-” I put a finger on his mouth to stop him right there.

“I know where this stuff is going, you’ve been teasing me the entire way here, and you're not going to stop in the bath-house, aren’t you?”

“No-bu-”

“No, no, no, I’m only here because of you and your associate's mistakes. I’d like to get at least some peace and relaxation while scrubbing this grub off.”

“Look, if I need to earn your trust to learn more about you, then you're going to have too earn my trust, and to do that. You're staying outside.”

He looks slightly stunned, and then I remember something, so I quickly take the ruby-colored necklace and throw it to him.

5/5 Sam 2025/05/07(Wed)18:09 No. 1107691 ID: 3f89df
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Whom I catch in my paws, she looks a bit huffy now, as she continues.
“Oh, and I’m not allowing you too spy on me with your weird magic necklaces!”

“You're just going to sit out here with your jewelry and wait for me. It won’t be long.” she pauses before saying:
“Good day Sir, and goodbye!”
She says quite dramatically, before entering the bath-house, Guess it just leaves me and you, Rose and Tulip, I sit on the sides of the porch, overlooking the familiar town of Bloom-heaven, both the good and the bad.

She doesn’t know, but it’s polite to give her some time. I didn’t think my teasing would get to her that intensely. I guess I should be more careful next time.

I just allow myself to breathe in the lovely blossom air, alongside you; you’ve always been a comforting presence, even if you four are one in the same.

Now that I don’t have the Woodland Alliance tying me down anymore, I have some time to find an identity for myself, huh? New friends, places, and horizons are just a few days away. This meaningless wandering has given me some time to reflect on the day.

Kumi… She’s quite the interesting character, don’t you think?

She seems alright. Definitely not used to having someone interested in her. All the teasing about her smelling like mold and shit was definitely working by the way, you should 100% keep that up.

She seems tense, but I suppose that comes with the job, power broking and all.

Keep teasing though, she'll probably bite you soon

1/4 Sam 2025/05/13(Tue)10:05 No. 1107949 ID: 14e386
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Got the same impression of her, guess she’s used to people putting on masks around and with her, a true loner type I guess, or just very closested.

If your talking about That kind of interested, I mean; I’m not swooning head over heels for her, she is pretty cute though, got an round face, and big eyes; Almost looks like an foxy marquise.
But I’m sticking around more-so cause I’m interested about her, you know me long enough to know why.

>All the teasing about her smelling like mold and shit was definitely working by the way, you should 100% keep that up.

Heh, if there’s one thing I know about you; Tulip your sarcasm knows no bounds.

I was just more so pushing her buttons and seeing her reactions to it. If you can’t take simple comments on the road, then can you even survive out here? Noticed she liked an good little compliment probably didn’t get a lot of love.

Sad, but what can you do?

She also did smell bad, well… maybe not like dung.. But like the mixture of perfume, unshowered fur, makeup, mould, and the forest. It’s a bit much on the nose, and better than someone important.

>Keep teasing though, she'll probably bite you soon

Oh no, I’ll be bit! Hopefully she doesn't have any diseases. I’m pretty resistant though she seems more so bark and no bite kind of deal, but she’s a bit on the chubbier side, and she most likely under-estimates my capabilities, so if I push it too far, I’d win.

I mean, good for her; for being smart enough to at least be somewhat physically capable, but I’ve seen my fair share of meatheads, and she’d get worked by them.

>She seems tense, but I suppose that comes with the job, power broking and all.

And again, I must thank you for your excellent insight Tulip, I was beginning to piece together whom she is, and who she’s working for although your comment gives me an lot more insight.

Power brooker… Diplomat, Noble, Councillor, Spy, Spy Master, Steward, Advisor, Accountant or Scribe, General; Kind of deal? I can think of a few people who'd want that slice of a pie; but at least she’s smart enough not too parade that wealth around, and instead look like a vagabond, maybe mid-rank? Not trash eaters, but not essentially traveling aristocrats either.
From that little information I’d gathered, she seems to do her dealings inside the Eyrie area or has essential connections to it. Count me lucky that I scored big today.

Although I don’t necessarily agree with her supporting the Eyrie, sure, they're old money, and they like to give as such. They... they’ve had a complicated past with many of the denizens of Ashbark Glen and the Woodland.

Hell, if the Marquise didn’t show up, and Richimold afterwards, we’d probably be paying taxes to them right now to fund the Eyrie’s extravagant lifestyle, just doesn’t fit right with me, when people are breaking their backs, just to make ends meet without them. Still, my job’s not political anymore, so I guess I got too tough on it. Or maybe…

Maybe her lips will tell me something that’ll tell me, how they can break from the inside…

To do that, I need to get on her good side. When you're around her, Ruby, make sure to give her a good word for me, you know the reward for good behaviour.

Now we just wait.. I say as I lean back more on the support beams and look on towards the sun-

2/4 Sam 2025/05/13(Tue)10:05 No. 1107950 ID: 14e386
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Wait, is that Archie? I see him in the distance, his long pointed snout, his small stature, his glowing orange scales, and his modest yellow tunic, I’d recognize that fella anywhere.

“Hey, Archie!”
I call out, giving him a wave, he looks towards me, gives me a big smile, charges towards me and gives me a big old hug, swearing he’d kill me if he were a bear instead of a butterfly lizard.

“Hey Sam, long time no see, presume you’ve been busy?”

“Yeah, well, I’d been let go by my previous job, so I’m back wandering now.” [/color]

Archie’s eyes widen, and he lets out a small chuckle.
“Really? You were the only reason they could run that place!”

I give him a warm smile and a pat on the back.
“You're too kind, Archie. At least they paid me as well as they could for my work; it’s much more than most would give.”

“Tell me about it. Recently, I did a shipment for the Marquise laboured day and night to get to their tight deadline, and thought, hey, they're a kingdom, probably pay me a bit extra for my work, day comes, and some twink of a cat alongside two laborers came in, came, peeked in the box. I looked distressed, then put the payment in, which was ⅔’rd of what I initially expected. I could sell that for more with less stock on the market?”

“Well, why don’t you go on the road? I know quite a few customers who’d be interested in that kind of thing, and you could charge it more for being “Exotic.” I know how much the conquering factions love too eat that up.”
I say, trying to give my friend some advice and condolences.

“Wish I could be like you Sam, but I can’t, I don’t think most people on the road, would be interested in dye and my wife’s weaving. Besides, we’ve got a little one on the way.”

“Ooh! That’s news, I’m glad for you two, hope he comes out healthy and smart, who knows, he might be like a new Renti some day.”

“You can only hope, " he says, finishing the conversation. After a while, he turns his attention to the bathhouse and gives me a sly look.

[color=#DE5B04] “You don’t hang out around here. Sam the Bachelor, who is it this time?”

“Just resting my legs-” I say, attempting to shift the topic.

“I know you, you sly dog; your reputation precedes you, what kind of girl is it?”

I mumble, but then sigh and give him the brief.
“Well she’s a vagabond, dresses like so, but has the hint of someone who’s used to politics in a courtley fashion. Kind of withdrawn and brooding though.”

Archie laughs.
“Thank goodness it’s not one of the town girls this time, I swear, every relationship of yours has ended dramatically.”

I stifle an fake laugh. “
Yeah, but this new girl, I’m not really interested in her yet. More so staying around as…. Someone to follow through the clearings with, a travel partner.

“So…you going to tell her? You do know with that physique of yours they end up assuming…”

“Look, look it’s not going to get that far Archie, were just getting to know each other this evening before we leave town, I’m mainly staying around for job reasons.”

“Fair enough- Ooop” He says, looking around at the square and roads beside him, a wave of sudden anxiety overtakes him.

“I promised the Wife I’d be home soon. I hope to see you around, Sam.” He says, waving me goodbye before stepping out onto the street with a quick dash.

“See you.” I casually wave back.


I wait for another thirty minutes or so, and finally Kumi steps out from the bath-house, smelling a lot better and more, dare I say.. Elegant clothes? Definitely not something you wear on the road, but something you’d wear to impress somebody for an short period of time.

3/4 Sam 2025/05/13(Tue)10:06 No. 1107951 ID: 14e386
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“Finished."
She says with a soft smile, Audrey the mouse, also leaving the bathhouse after her, her stress clearly lessened, yet still ready to be on the defensive at any minute.

“I’d be quick you’d say?” I say with a devilish grin, she rolls her eyes, then steps above where I’m sitting, clearly looking down upon me.

“Look, I had to make sure all of it was out. You might not care about looking like a beast, but I do, and with your current look, it’s only an matter of time till you resemble an monster.” She says with quite a lot of sass behind it, I like this side of her a lot better.

“Do you prefer beasts then? Cause I could ruffle my fur if that’s what you wi-”

“Don’t be so arrogant.” She says, bringing down a paw to lift me up.
“We only tolerate each other’s presence, because we want something from each other.”

“Mmm, I don’t know, if you cared bout my secrets, you’re a vagabond, you could just stab me, and steal my secrets.”

“Do you think of me as some sort of fool?” She says her voice resembles a barking pup.
“I’d be stupid to do something so brash, and get in trouble with the law here.”

“Yes, but it’s the Woodland Alliance how much funds can they allocate Really?”

“They’d just chop your head off or stab you first, at least the other factions have trials.”

“But you're a vagabond, anybody’d rather chop off your head then go through all that trouble, your an nobody.”

Her voice slips slightly, her tone idongiant. “Well, once they realize how important I really am, they’ll stop.”

“Sureeee you are.” I say sarcastically, hoping to give the illusion I don’t believe her.

She just scoffs and rolls her eyes, taking this moment. I present her to you, Ruby.

4/4 Sam/Kumi 2025/05/13(Tue)10:06 No. 1107952 ID: 14e386
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“Oh, you forgot this, by the way.” I stretched my hands to show her your magnificent form.

“Oh yeah, your weird voice gems, what even are they by the way?” She says in a questioning tone.

“I don’t know; I found four of them in some abandoned ruins, deep within the caves of Ashbark, back when I used to travel around. Found out they could speak; and kept them ever since.”

“Are you telling the truth on that?” She says curiously.

“Why would I lie? I’m sure they would say the same thing.”

“What do you mean by they?”

“Oh, I apologize, it’s a single life-form spread across the four gems, it can decide to switch its perspective whenever it wants, and talks to them through them, I just like to refer to them by their gemstone, to differentiate between them, specially since they can switch who their talking too real quick.”

“And who are they? ”

“They don’t know, but for the gems, the one I wear, I call Tulip, yours.” I say, pointing to the one outstretched on her hands.
“Is Ruby. Then Dimaond, and Lavander.”

“And how do I know your not using them too spy on me?” She says in an accusatory fashion.

“Well, I’ve tried them on different people before, and I have no control over what the gems say or tell to anybody, and no-one can hear them unless they're talking too you directly, Honestly they chould be completely nonsensical or crass if they’d want too, but they usually like to help.”

“I mean, they can see a little bit of the surrounding environment, but they can only speak through words, so it’s safe.”

Believing me through my explanation, she begins putting it on.

****

Fastening it around my neck is weird, but hey.. They’ve been useful, and maybe, I can convince them to tell a bit of Sam’s secrets; that’s what he’s too ashamed or scared of admitting out loud.

But since I feel relatively better after my bath, now’s a good time to get to know Sam better and determine whether he's a danger to me. Maybe letting a bit of my guard down would be good. I have a stressful appointment in a couple of days, after all.


Soo.. Ruby? Some good intel about him could be nice, and I’m thinking of getting something to eat later. So maybe some good conversation topics or things to do would be nice, at least while it’s safe.

He's just trying to figure you out, same as you're trying to figure him out. Looks like you've got similar professions.

as far as conversation topics it seems you're both interested in the politics of the region. you could compare notes

Don't really get the feeling he's trying to use you in a dangerous way though, but he is confident he could beat you in a fight if it came down to it.

Also he thinks you're kinda chubby.

He called you chubby.