Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/05(Mon)19:35 No. 58377 ID: 326397
File 125479650288.gif - (385.11KB , 640x400 , intro2.gif )

[Animated, Cutscene 2/4]


The forces of light gave up the pretense of nonviolence and crafted weapons of fearsome power, called the Swords of Virtue.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/05(Mon)19:35 No. 58379 ID: 326397
File 125479653235.gif - (85.34KB , 640x400 , intro3.gif )

[Animated (very short, repeating), Cutscene 3/4]


Nobody knows the result of the final battle between good and evil, but neither appear again in recorded history, seemingly long gone from our planet.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/05(Mon)19:36 No. 58380 ID: 326397
File 125479656991.gif - (626.71KB , 640x400 , intro4.gif )

[Animated, Cutscene 4/4]


They did leave something behind, though: the Swords of Virtue.

Split into four people!

My name is Joyeuse. Of the same steel and temper as Durandal and Curtana.

wait wait is it made of steel or stone?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/05(Mon)20:06 No. 58399 ID: 326397
File 125479840671.png - (92.32KB , 640x400 , V101.png )

>>58381
>>58393
These voices, my head... the myth was right. I can't... my thoughts are spread too far.

>>58394
The sword feels cool and slick in my... your... our hand? We can't tell what it is, but interestingly enough it is made from one piece of whatever material composes it. Focusing on the Sword helps bring some calm to the storm of voices.

Everyone listen. Just be quiet for a minute. My name is- was Kevin. I finally found and claimed the Sword of Unity... but the price, oh the price. I should have expected-

But now we are Unity, one of the Wielder's of the enchanted Swords of Virtue. Our mind lies in fragments. And I cannot do this without you.

Inspect chest. Look around. Aquire rocks. Question gender. Question sexuality. Question nature in universe. Question number of siblings. Investigate bookshelf.

>>58399
>Unity
>Fragmented mind
...Good and Evil are ironic assholes, aren't they.

tell me now kevin, why exactly did you set off on this quest for the swords of virtue?

>>58399
How many swords are there, and how do we go about obtaining all of them?

Assault bookcase, organization is evil. READ THE BOOKS!

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/05(Mon)21:21 No. 58451 ID: 326397
File 125480288572.png - (50.38KB , 640x400 , V102.png )

>>58404
I... right. Good, this is good. I wouldn't have thought of any of that on my own. I can do, but the thinking is so difficult. I'll get to work on while I explain. So much to be known. Where to start?


The versatile candle holder quickly becomes a good torch holder. The Sword rests reassuringly in the loop of our belt as we get to work. The room is pretty barren except this weird pedastal and this bookshelf. The whole place has an ancient feel to it, but surprisingly the layer of dust on the bookshelf is minimal and everything is in a good state of repair, beside the hole in the wall.


>>58408
I'm- We're a guy. I guess the universe is... there? Not just that it exists, oh man I'm not making much sense. But more that it has possibilities? I don't think I can explain it. I've always been so focused, so strongminded: this is all so new and hard.

We set off on this quest for the usual reasons: glory, fame, power. Everyone learns of the Swords of Virtue as kids but nobody does anything about it. Me and Anna, we weren't content with weaving or fishing or whatever career the village needed us for. As soon as we turned 17 we left and never looked back. It's been a grueling four months, but we caught a lucky break. We would still be looking if it weren't for that.


Once laid out on the ground, flipping through the books shows that they're still legible after all this time. Only problem is that they're written in a foreign and indecipherable symbols, the likes of which has not been known by man for generations. All, that is, except for two anomalies. One is a small tome in a different language than all the others, but unfortunately still not one we can read. It is recognizeable though as one of the languages known to man, so maybe someone can translate it. The other is a fold-up map that seems to be of the surrounding area. This isn't as useful as it sounds, because we already have a map and this one looks to be millenia old and very out of date, not to mention that the key is written in that strange ancient text.


>>58416
There are many, many Swords. Not all have been found, but that might be because not all may be Wielded. The Swords of Virtue have raised many men out of anonymity to greatness, and have cast entire kingdoms out of their complacent prosperity to the depths of despair. But... I don't know how many there are, nor how to find others. I guess just a lot of looking, but I don't even know if we can have two Swords at once. I don't know if I want two Swords at once!


The rest of the search shows that the other items on the bookshelf are a glass globe sitting in a metal holder, the candle, and a locked chest. The lock is weird, built into the side of the box, and it looks very intricate. It might be just decoration, but we have a feeling it is enchanted in some way. We don't get the same feeling from the globe, but I can't tell what it is or does. It has lots of bubbles inside that warp any attempts to peer into it.

>>58451
What other kinds of Swords have been uncovered?

Destroy globe and obtain the obvious key inside it. Then destroy the bookcase. All semblances of order must be vanquished. If you continue to ignore such acts of destruction, search the rock pile.

Stop referring to yourself and us as we. It will be confusing to both of us and its better to keep your sense of identity. A man without an identity is not a man at all.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/05(Mon)22:34 No. 58496 ID: 326397
File 125480726544.png - (102.96KB , 640x400 , V103.png )

>>58457
There are too many to list, but the important ones everybody knows and fears are the four Cardinal Virtues: the Swords of Justice, Temperance, Prudence, and Fortitude. The Cardinal Wielders are rumored to be the original four humans who found the Swords, and have never been killed in a battle! If that's true, they've been alive for a very, very long time.

There are also other powerful groups of Swords, such as those who Wield the Seven Heavenly Virtues, and the Eight Knightly Virtues... I could list them off, assuming I remember them all. But then there are dozens if not hundreds of other Swords. I'm sure there's a detailed study of them at one of the universities, but I don't have any formal schooling.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/05(Mon)22:50 No. 58510 ID: 326397
File 125480821651.png - (100.07KB , 640x400 , V104.png )

>>58459
I know this is new and confusing, and I'm still trying to figure it out too, but we're all Unity now. The old Kevin, the... 'me' that was a structured mind is gone. Some other Swords are said to hound the Wielder with voices, but this feels like all of us are parts of the same being. We don't lack an identity. We are Unity.

But you're right; it's time for some action.


The globe feels strangely warm, or perhaps it just stands out because it's not as cold as the Sword. Looking at it closer reveals nothing interesting, and one solid throw leaves the orb cracked on the ground. The pieces of rubble are surprisingly few and they emit a light blue glow. There is no key in the mess... but a quick search of the shelf shows that the key was sitting underneath the globe, out of sight. Attempting to unlock the chest produces a satisfying clunk from the locking mechanism, but no amount of straining will get the chest to budge.

The rock pile proves to be just that: a pile of rocks. There's nothing in, on, or under it. I could carry a rock around, but I see no reason to do so.

Looks like this one is... justice? I guess we've got a good alignment going now.

Use sword to open chest.

>>58512
No. This sword is Unity. Justice is shaped slightly different.

I think unlocking the chest was only one step in opening it. Try inspecting the sides for a sliding panel or something.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/05(Mon)23:14 No. 58527 ID: 326397
File 125480964328.png - (22.57KB , 640x400 , V105.png )

>>58512
No, both the Sword of Justice and the Sword of Unity are double edged swords, but they are different. Unity has a somewhat weird look because the whole thing was made from one piece of material, whereas Justice is described as plain and unassuming. I have no idea how they got that description considering all the deeds attributed to the Wielders of the Cardinal Virtues...

There are a lot of Swords and only so many styles, some are bound to be nearly identical and yet still be dedicated to different Virtues. As far as I know, there is only one Sword per Virtue.

>>58514
Oh, you can hear and talk to each other! Good to know.


No amount of chopping, battering, or prying with the sword will open the chest. It isn't made of any familiar stone, metal, or wood, and a closer inspection reveals no sliding panels. There are, however, some pretty shining jewels embedded in the lock.

>>58527
Well, can you carry it, then? We may as well take it with us. An indestructable box can come in handy!

>>58527
Poke the glowing jewels. With the shattered remains of the orb.

Bring the globe near the lock.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/05(Mon)23:32 No. 58547 ID: 326397
File 125481076591.png - (26.96KB , 640x400 , V106.png )

>>58528
I can move the chest, but it's far too heavy to get up the rope easily. Besides, the Swords are supposed to be nigh invulnerable anyway.

>>58530
>>58531
Experimenting with the shards of the globe and the chest produces some interesting results. When all the pieces are held next to the lock, all of the jewels dim, and the glow from the shard diminishes as well. When a single piece is held near the chest, a single jewel darkens along with the piece, and a specific shard seems to have a correlating jewel it will always and only affect.

>>58547
Well, try opening the chest when all the jewels are dim.

If it still doesn't open, this is probably a combination lock. Look closer at the key, is there any decoration on it?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)08:55 No. 58633 ID: 3b5cf8
File 125484453694.png - (94.34KB , 640x400 , V107.png )

>>58549
After literally minutes of off-camera fiddling with the fragments and jewels, it becomes obvious that the chest won't open when the lights dim. It's almost like it repulses the shards, a slight pressure against the hand. And the way the comforting glow withdraws? No, it gives the impression that the lock does not appreciate the splintered globe.

The key is plain and unmarked. No help there.


I wonder... If I remember correctly (and that's a big 'if'), the legends imply that rooms like this are probably personal chambers of the Angels. Which possibly means that this chest contains the personal effects of the Angel of Unity. We- or rather you- should try thinking like him if we're going to open this. I'm not really sure what that means or if it's even helpful, but it's all I can think to offer.

Not that it's entirely necessary, though. I'm sure the chest contains some useful items, but the Sword was the real prize, and I have that already.

>>58633
See if we can rejoin the fragments into a whole sphere once again.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)10:51 No. 58667 ID: 42a1a0
File 125485151695.gif - (32.57KB , 640x400 , V108.gif )

[Animated]

>>58656
Now we're getting somewhere. The glass fragments nestle together nicely, but they wobble and shake of their own volition. The jewels on the chest turn a deeper shade of blue, as does the fractured orb, but the glow shimmers sympathetically with the movements of the shards. The lock still won't budge. It seems a mere semblance of Unity isn't enough.

>>58667
Perhaps you could melt them back together with the help of the torch.

Conversely, you could try holding the shards together, instead of leaving it in your palm like that.

Oh, or touch the orb with the sword of Unity? Maybe touch the sword itself to the gems...

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)14:28 No. 58851 ID: 1bfd27
File 125486448945.gif - (34.93KB , 640x400 , V109.gif )

>>58759
Trying to push the shards together does nothing at all. They continue to vibrate in your hands.

>>58761
Touching the Sword to the globe does worse than nothing, it makes all the pieces fall apart. Luckily they're easy to put back together.

>>58851
...place the orb back on the pedestal it was on before.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)14:33 No. 58859 ID: 1bfd27
File 125486478083.png - (51.60KB , 640x400 , V110.png )

>>58747
Melting the shards together seems like the best idea so far. That would Unify the globe again. Carefully, the shards are placed back in their metal holder which keeps them in their original shape. Then I hold the torch under it for a couple minutes. Strangely, the orb seems to be absorbing the light from the torch, but when I move it away, the shards are still fractured. They sit still for a short bit before beginning to vibrate again. I don't think the torch is going to work to melt the pieces together.

>>58859
And the candle of JUSTICE?

>>58859
It's absorbing the light? Try the same thing, but with the lit candle helping out. If it were daylight this would probably be easier.

Try holding the fire to the gems on the case while the sphere is close by.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)16:18 No. 59013 ID: 1bfd27
File 125487110551.gif - (1.30MB , 640x400 , V111.gif )

[Animated]

>>58861
The candle, of course! Actually, it seems really small so I'm not sure how that will-

>>59013
Right. Reform orb, open chest with orb. LOOT EVERYTHING.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)17:02 No. 59058 ID: 1bfd27
File 125487372143.png - (44.00KB , 640x400 , V112.png )

>>59015
Everything goes according to plan. The candle's flame melts the orb together which, when held near the chest makes the jewels turn a deep shade of purple before going dim. The chest then opened and revealed... mostly clothes. There was also a small book in the same ancient language as the majority of the ones on the bookshelf, and a sword belt designed to be worn on the torso. It looks stylish, and interestingly enough when the Sword is sheathed in it, the blade disappears from sight. Not only is it invisible, but it weighs significantly less now.

I grabbed the one book that was in a language that can be translated, but I think it's time to get out of here. The candle burned out when it melted the orb together and my torch went out, so it's rather hard to see. Nothing else really seems useful, but I do have some extra pockets. I guess I could take a few other things, if you think I should.

Take small book in the chest too. May be important one day despite being so far untranslatable. It has a tale behind it, perhaps one day it will be revealed.

>>59058
That's not how you LOOT EVERYTHING!

Take the candle.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)19:23 No. 59146 ID: 1bfd27
File 125488220786.png - (46.28KB , 640x400 , whatisthisidonteven.png )

>>59059
>>59063
You know what, you're right! This stuff is probably important. It was in a locked chest, after all. And I am the Wielder of Unity, so now it belongs to me.

The robes from the chest are old but comfortable, and surprisingly clean. The old adventurer's clothes were full of holes and quite easy to leave behind. With the change of clothing comes a new look, perhaps an outward sign of a new stage in life. The sword belt rests over the shoulder of the tunic, and the hilt of the Sword of Unity sticks up above the top of the cloak, for easy access.

The book from the chest and the candle are put in one of the many pockets of the new outfit, and with that it is time to depart. I feel almost hesitant to leave this room, this place where Kevin died and Unity stepped into the world to fill his place. I know I'm still me, but at the same time I feel more, and less, than me. Like I've moved past me and into something bigger. It's hard to describe, but I feel it in the very depths of my fractured mind.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)19:25 No. 59150 ID: 1bfd27
File 125488235378.png - (22.38KB , 640x400 , V1.png )

Secrets found: 1/1


Good job on figuring out the chest puzzle, guys. I'm glad ya'll decided to stick around and figure it out.

I understand you feel like your part of something bigger now, but that won't happen if we don't have a goal. Lets go kill something big and powerful. Like a corrupt dictator or something.

There was no Kevin before, stop lamenting and lets bolt.

Swords of Virtue - Chapter 2 Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)21:31 No. 59255 ID: 1bfd27
File 125488989034.png - (475.51KB , 640x400 , V201.png )

>>59154
I, well... for the longest time finding a Sword of Virtue was my goal. Now...? We need a new one, and killing stuff seems a pretty good place to start.

Climbing the rope out of the chamber seems easy, perhaps a side effect of becoming a Wielder. The harsh desert air hits you as soon as you reach the top, but the sun has not yet forced out the morning's cool temperatures.

A female voice calls out from behind you. "Hello, Unity. Took you long enough." The voice sounds like a moan of pain, every syllable holding back a wince. It sounds familiar, yet distant and the connection is vague.

>>59255
turn around and see who it is!

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)21:54 No. 59301 ID: 1bfd27
File 125489128934.png - (20.57KB , 640x400 , V202.png )

>>59261
... what?

Whatever it is, it looks horribly injured and wracked with pain. It isn't moving any closer.

>>59301
Ask who it is.

>>59301
Converse with this strange creature. Ask it who it is, how it knows Unity.

>>59301
Someone in here must recognize it, it sure recognizes us.
Whoever it is, quit holding out on us.

It must a spirit of the damned only revealed to you through the swords power! Should we vanquish this foul beast?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/06(Tue)22:26 No. 59346 ID: 1bfd27
File 125489320041.png - (20.71KB , 640x400 , V203.png )

>>59307
>>59313
>>59314
>>59315
What are you guys talking about? That's Anna- I mean Comfort. She was waiting for me outside.

"Long time no see, Comfort." Why did I say that? I just saw her a few minutes ago...

"And what a sight you are," she replies with a wry grin, her voice a mixture of caution and disgust.

"You're one to talk," the friendly banter elicits a weirdly echoing chuckle.

It must be the Sword. That's got to be why this isn't making sense. But at least we're back together again, and we both have Swords now!

>>59346
Be on guard. This situation is not all it appears to be! Ask what the dripping blood is about.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)08:10 No. 59409 ID: c16b25
File 125492823595.png - (32.65KB , 640x400 , V204.png )

>>59368
B-but... Anna is my best friend. We grew up together, we left the village together.

Anna was Kevin's friend

Oh. I... Yeah, you're right. Something is odd here.

"You're bleeding. What happened? Are you okay?"

Her cheerful countenance disappears rapidly as she moves her hand from behind her back. "Oh, this?" She steps forward to show me the wound.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)08:10 No. 59410 ID: c16b25
File 125492825648.png - (18.51KB , 440x400 , V205.png )

"I decided to practice with my Sword a bit while you were down there."

Geeze umm... want a bandage for that?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)10:20 No. 59418 ID: a3c68a
File 125493602340.png - (23.79KB , 440x400 , V206.png )

>>59413
"Geez, um... want a bandage for that?"

"Yes please," She nods and I tear off a section of clean fabric from my roll. "I used up all of mine already," she explains as I carefully wrap her wound. "They don't help with the pain too much, but I don't know if this thing can become infected and I'd rather not risk it."

Blood is already beginning to seep through the cloth, but at least it's covered now.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)10:20 No. 59419 ID: a3c68a
File 125493605481.png - (32.51KB , 640x400 , V207.png )

"Thanks," She says after I've finished, offering a weak smile of gratitude.

We should probably get her to a healer or a hospital ASAP. Those white bits looked like bone and I don't think that's going to be growing back on its own any time soon.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)14:34 No. 59553 ID: 09d188
File 125495124356.png - (30.42KB , 640x400 , V208.png )

>>59457
You-you're right. Those probably were her bones! By the Angels...! Why did I think bandages would be enough?!

"We should get you to a healer, you need actual medical attention."

"Have your memories gone the way of your shattered mind, Unity? This wound will never heal, so long as I Wield the Sword of Comfort."

"But... doesn't it hurt. Maybe we can get you something to numb the pai-"

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)14:34 No. 59554 ID: 09d188
File 125495127155.png - (32.68KB , 500x455 , V209.png )

"Nothing can numb the pain."

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)14:36 No. 59557 ID: 09d188
File 125495137640.gif - (72.04KB , 640x400 , V210.gif )

[Animated]

"I'm- I'm sorry. That came out wrong. I do appreciate the concern. It's very touching."

"Anna, I- Wait. Did you just rub your blood on me?! That's so gross!"

Her snickering didn't help the situation any.

I don't even know what the fuck.

Okay, so the Sword of Unity gave Kevin us, and the Sword of Comfort brings pain.

The forces of light must be dicks.

>>59596
No, I think it's more of a case of the sword draining the quality it's named for.
Therefore, only a person of great <insert virtue here> would be able to wield said weapon.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)16:49 No. 59802 ID: 09d188
File 125495935664.png - (28.09KB , 440x400 , V211.png )

>>59559
I'm with you. This is very confusing. My memories swim about me like... but maybe I can grab one. Let's see...

A week and a half ago, after we we went our different ways to finish the quest for our respective Swords, Anna found hers very quickly, like just a couple days later. But she didn't catch up with me until three days ago. Apparently, when she claimed the Sword of Comfort, the initial wound was so severe that the pain put her into catatonic shock for nearly three days.

By the time she found me she must have learned how to exist through the agony, but she's not the same Anna I used to know. Her eyes are duller now, and it took a long time to even get her to smile. She used to be such a warm person... it's just good to hear her laugh, even if it's at my expense.


>>59639
Somebody pointed out to me once that the Swords were made for Angels, perfect beings of infinite Virtue. He tried to use that as an argument to dissuade me from searching for one, but I didn't listen at the time. I'm wishing I had paid more attention now.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)18:15 No. 60038 ID: 09d188
File 12549645341.gif - (13.16KB , 640x400 , V212.gif )

Anna asks to see the Sword; she'd been waiting long enough. The hilt still feels cool, and the return of its weight is reassuring. The increase in volume of the multitude of voices, however, is not. It's entirely too confusing to focus in a real combat situation, at least for now. Some serious practice is needed before it can be Wielded effectively.

Well shit, we'd best start practicing then.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)18:34 No. 60090 ID: 09d188
File 125496566122.png - (405.86KB , 640x400 , V213.png )

>>60041
You're right. There's a rather morbid old saying associated with the legends that says, 'The Wielders learn through killing; the Swords teach through death.' I don't think sparring with Comfort is a good idea, as one of us could easily get hurt... or more hurt in Comfort's case.

But the desert air is rapidly getting hotter. We can't stay out here all day. But where shall we go?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/07(Wed)18:37 No. 60105 ID: 09d188
File 125496587865.png - (456.25KB , 640x400 , V2.png )

Mindfuckery found: 1/3
Backstory uncovered: 1/*


Next time, we'll finally see that Sword in action. Probably.

>>60105
Aww, we missed some mindfuckery. We need to dedicate ourselves to finding it all next time.

Swords of Virtue - Chapter 3 Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/08(Thu)17:46 No. 60907 ID: aa1163
File 125504918061.png - (124.39KB , 1024x768 , V301.png )

Ugh, this cloak is way too hot for the desert.

With nothing but sand visible in all directions, having a map of the local area is definitely a necessity. We are currently in the nation of Calumet: that river in the north marks the border between Calumet and Dunn. The map doesn't extend further into the Wastelands to the south, as there's very little life down there anyway.

There's a village about 60 miles from here, but Comfort says we should head somewhere else. Something about them not wanting to see her again so soon. The fortified city to the northwest is Beauvai, the capital of Calumet.

I really have no idea where to go. I'd like to get out of Calumet soon; it's too hot. But we don't have any maps for the rest of the continent. We could probably pick some up at a town or city though.

I think we should go north to the lake then, it will take a while, but the end result will be a nice dip in the water. It's better then going to that desert town Comfort wants to go to.

Plus there's a castle there, if its abandoned we can get loot baby!

I agree. The sooner we get out of this desert, the better. To the north!

>>60907
NE, then N. Ditch the cloak if you wish.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/08(Thu)23:04 No. 61274 ID: 413fa1
File 125506829867.gif - (1.26MB , 640x400 , V302.gif )

[Animated]

>>60911
>>60956
Yeah! A swim would be great. And we can pick up news and supplies in the city.

Anna seems pleased about the destination. "I'll race you there."

"There's no way I can beat you. You have a Sword."

She looks amused. "You do too now."

"Oh yeah, I guess I d-"

"Readysetgo!"

... sigh

Totallynotsamefag!!V1AJL5LzHl 2009/10/08(Thu)23:10 No. 61279 ID: 895b3e
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>>61274
wow, these artifacts are quite awesome

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/09(Fri)08:19 No. 61615 ID: 0c7e0c
File 125510154792.png - (367.96KB , 640x400 , V303.png )

>>61279
You're telling me! This is amazing, so exhilarating! It's like riding on an out-of-control cart speeding down a mountain. Wooohoohooo!

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/09(Fri)10:43 No. 61630 ID: 70ac79
File 125511018728.png - (196.09KB , 640x400 , V304.png )

It took us about three hours to make it to Beauvai, a journey that would have taken us several days before. Anna waited for me a couple times to restart the race, and even gave me a head start once, but she arrived first anyway. She's had her Sword longer and has better control over it.

The capital of Calumet is a walled city with a wooden palisade offering some protection to the inhabitants. Most of the buildings seem to be made of a type of mud brick. There's a marketplace visible, along with a wooden keep in the distance.

So how should we go about this? Should we visit the city first? Do we just walk in?

Hells yeah. Walk in like we fucking OWN the place.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/09(Fri)15:16 No. 61752 ID: 727ddd
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>>61637
I... I don't know about that. But... I guess we are both Wielders; we do deserve some respect, right? Yeah, you know what, we do! Look out, city, here we come.

Everything is quiet as you approach. The lack of guards at the main entrance is odd, but the empty streets and booths in the market place are just downright eerie. The silence feels forced, as though the entire city is holding its breath, and there's an intense feeling that someone is watching. Comfort falls behind, her confidence dwindling before yours. Her attention drifts to the buildings to your left.

"Unity, do you feel that? Do you feel it? Like a pressure... in my head, rippling and popping," her eyes dart from one rooftop to another, scanning for some unseen threat. She doesn't sound afraid, more intrigued than anything else. You don't notice whatever sensation it is she's talking about.

>>61752
Sounds like another sword user is in the area. What a coincidence. You don't believe in coincidences do you?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/09(Fri)16:42 No. 61807 ID: 349ccb
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[Animated]

>>61758
No, after the last few months I can definitely say I don't. If it is another Wielder, and Comfort can sense him, I wonder that's another gift the Swords grant. But... does that mean we can be sensed too...?

Suddenly a solemn voice from the nearest roof breaks the silence. "Unity, we've been expecting you. And Comfort, what a pleasant surprise. Welcome to Beauvai." A woman stands on top of the building waving down. She doesn't seem threatening or angry at all. Maybe this isn't such a bad thing after all.

What should I say to her? Or should we turn and run?

>>61807
Ask who it is. Did she kill everyone here?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/09(Fri)18:09 No. 61835 ID: 83d49f
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[Animated]

>>61809
"Who are you?"

Anna leans forward and whispers to me, "She's the Wielder of Loyalty."

"Comfort is correct," Loyalty confirms.

I'm starting to wonder how everyone knows everybody's name, and as if reading my thoughts I hear Anna ask, "You can't tell?" I just shrug and look back up to Loyalty.

"Did you kill everyone here?"

Loyalty chuckles with amusement and shakes her head. "No, no, no. The King enforced a curfew as soon as I realized you had awoken, Unity. We concluded you would head here, based on your location, and it turns out we were right. Oh joy!"

She jumps down from the building, faster than the mortal eye could track. "The King would like to meet you, so I'm here to escort you to the keep. If you'd be so kind as to follow me."

Ask her what thing the sword does to her, if she doesn't understand, tell her about Comfort bringing pain on wielder and about Unity being voices in your head.

Loyalty being drained makes me not want to trust her much.

>>61846
No need to ask. Just never forget about it for a second.

>>61835
Follow her to the keep. Hopefully she has, like you and Anna, enough of an edge on the sword not to be insane.

>Wielder of Loyalty
Hit on her.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/10(Sat)09:29 No. 62099 ID: f87ce6
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>>61846
I can see your point, but since she's not loyal to me wouldn't that be a... good thing? Er- maybe not.

>>61902
>>62041
I can multitask!

"Sure, we'll go with you. So why's a talented girl like you out here serving a tiny kingdom like this?"

"I serve no kingdom: my allegiance is to the King."

"Uh, wouldn't you rather a life of adventure? Roaming the continent... by my side?"

"My life is here, at the side of the King."

I'm no good at this...

She seems to be very loyal... but there's no enthusiasm in her voice. She doesn't sound like she resents my questions, just sad and tired. I don't know, maybe she gets hit on a lot?

We're getting close to the keep now. I've been seeing movement in the windows of buildings as we pass. Glimpses at faces that quickly withdraw. I've never been feared before, but this is how I'd imagine it would feel. It's a weird idea... kind of a rush to know that so many people look at me, and what they see scares them.

>>62099
She's probably fighting with all her might to stay loyal to the king, and it tires her. I think testing that loyalty would just piss her off, unless she had a good reason to betray him.

She's definitely going to betray someone. All the Weilders have the thing that their sword represents taken from them.

Unity has a shattered, fractured mind.
Comfort is in constant agony.
Loyalty will probably betray the shit out of everyone.

>>62099
Ask how long she's had the sword.

>>62099
Ask her to tell you about the king, and why she follows him.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/10(Sat)16:31 No. 62421 ID: f7ac6f
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>>62281
>>62282
You guys are starting to make me worry. Um, okay, no more annoying questions. But maybe some valid ones?

>>62283
"How long have you had your Sword?"

"Time means very little to me anymore, but I think it has been around twenty years." That's initially surprising considering she looks to be about 25, but the Wielders never age, so it makes sense.

>>62285
"What about the King? What is he like, and why do you follow him?"

"The King is... a pragmatist. He looked at the world and asked 'what can I get out of this?' He's also very opportunistic man. Or as he puts it, he's good at 'recognizing talent and getting the most out of it.' That's how he became 'the King'... by getting the most out of my 'talent'." A flicker of anger crosses her face but she pushes past it. "Calumet is small now, but he wants to see its borders grow. And that's why he requested a meeting with you. But I'd best let him explain that himself."

We enter a... very small room. That isn't too unusually because this is a very small keep and space is and resources seem to be too rare for luxuries like a great hall. A man of around 50, presumably the King is here, sitting in a fairly nice chair. His clothes are relatively modest: just some nice looking robes and a gold band around each arm.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/10(Sat)16:32 No. 62424 ID: f7ac6f
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He looks expectantly at us and motions towards the chairs at his side, so we take a seat. Loyalty stands behind him, despite the presence of another chair on the other side of the table.

"I trust Loyalty has already welcomed you to Beauvai, but if not I'd like to offer you my own greeting. I am King Depaul, Sovereign of Calumet. I'm sorry for the, ahh... odd reception. But you see we must be cautious: entire villages have been lost to young Wielders caught up in their new situation."

He moves on without pausing, as though his words are practiced. "I am glad you came here first and you seem a reasonable enough guy, so I'm going to be straight forward with you. I want you to join my ranks as a knight of Calumet. I can give you training, a place to call home, and a cause to champion with your might. And your lady friend can join as well-"

Here Loyalty leaned forward and whispered in his ear, "The King, this is Comfort."

King Depaul glared at her for a second before saying with forced calmness, "When addressing me directly, you will call me 'your Majesty'."

"Yes, your Majesty,"


I think that threw his timing off or something, because he's paused for a moment. Should I say something or wait for him to continue talking?

>>62424
Wait for him to finish talking. He doesn't seem the type to appreciate interruptions.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/10(Sat)17:20 No. 62457 ID: f7ac6f
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>>62438
That's a good point. I can't really respond anyway until I know where he's coming from.

"Please don't mind Loyalty," King Depaul shifted his attention back to us. "She finds amusement in such trivialities. Ahh... as I was saying, I would be overjoyed to have Comfort become a knight of Calumet as well. The two of you will be given the finest housing in town, at least until we expand Calumet's borders. Then you may even find yourself with a city or two of your own!" He chuckles and his eyes unfocus, or rather focus on something far away for a moment.

But then he's back to the present and speaking again with his practiced manner. "But I've been talking enough. Tell me what you're thinking, Unity... and Comfort. I know this is a big decision but training and a place to call your own, well... it's a pretty rare deal these days."

Comfort has barely moved since we sat down, and expression is unreadable. She's barely said anything since we arrived at Beauvai... but then she's always clammed up around other people.


I'm not sure what to think about this deal. I don't particularly like the idea of serving someone else... but it would be convenient. Should I ask them if we could have some time to ourselves to talk it over? Or are there any questions I should ask while he's here? Or maybe flat out refuse his offer?

How is the dental? Health Benefits? 401k?

Seriously, you should probably talk this over with Anna. While this is unrelated but maybe you should contemplate using your real names instead of titles. Unity is so impersonal.

I think all this pain for Anna might take a toll on her mind eventually too. She should regularly be reminded of who she was, as Anna. Your not Angels, your human. Don't lose that thought.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/10(Sat)19:21 No. 62549 ID: f7ac6f
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>>62466
Uhh... 'dental' is teeth, right?

"How are... your... teeth?"

The King looks confused. "What?"

"Nevermind."

I ask him for a moment alone with Comfort and he and Loyalty leave the room to us. I'm not sure what you mean by 'real names' and 'titles.' The only reason I'm here, talking with a king is because I am Unity! Nobody important would ever want to talk to Kevin and Anna, seventeen year old adventurers. I'm something more now. Somebody important.

"I don't like this," Anna suddenly announced, startling me out of my reverie.

"I almost forgot you could talk, there." She looks away as though I'd scolded her. "It's alright, I don't mind doing the talking. Just tell me what you don't like."

"Any of this," she insists. "I don't want to be a knight, I don't want to be in charge of anything. I enjoy being free to go wherever, answering to nobody. I like adventuring... with you. And I- I mean... I think it would be boring to trade that in just so we can call some guy- some guy without a Sword, I should add!- 'your majesty'."


Hmm, she has a good point, but I don't even know what I want. Should I try to convince her? And if so, how?

>>62549
Meh. Life in a city is boring. You could use some training though. Perhaps a temporary contract?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/10(Sat)19:41 No. 62565 ID: f7ac6f
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>>62553
Yeah, I definitely need training.

"What if we only took a temporary contract? Worked for him for a little while, got some gold and experience, then moved on?"

Anna looks unconvinced. "Did you hear what he was offering? He wants to make us knights of his kingdom. That's a lifetime commitment to a lord, not a job you do for a while until you don't feel like it anymore. And from the way Loyalty described him, I don't think he'd let us leave willingly."


Hmmm...

Shit I don't expect us to be allowed to leave without agreeing or fighting. I hope you two can kick ass because WE ARE OUTTA HERE.

This is obviously one of those evil kings you hear in stories anyway. You heard him about you eventually ruling your own cities. That's not monarchy, that's a dictatorship! That's dangerously close to COMMUNISM!

>>62565
Okay then, turn him down. I guess you'll just have to train some other way.

>>62632
If possible, turn him down in writing.
I doubt he'd let us slip out of his fingers that easily, and he has Loyalty, who's been doing this for twenty years.
Assuming Loyalty isn't, y'know, listening through magical contrivance or something.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/10(Sat)22:28 No. 62817 ID: f7ac6f
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>>62597
That's not evil, that's feudalism. But... Anna's right. I don't particularly want a city. I'm sure we can find another way to train... but I am a bit concerned about having to fight our way out. I guess that would be good practice though, huh? If Loyalty doesn't kill us, that is...

"Okay, Anna. If you don't want to accept then we don't have to."

She looks flustered at that. "I- we don't have to turn him down just because of me."

"Nah, I agree with you. Let's get out of here."

>>62707
I should leave a note or something... although just skipping out would probably communicate the same message. Besides, you're right, they might be listening or-

Leaving the room proves that yes. Yes they were listening. Dammit.


"That's an unfortunate decision," the King shakes his head. Loyalty doesn't seem to care. "I was hoping you would join us willingly... but no matter."

Guys I don't have practice with my Sword yet and I don't think we can beat Loyalty what should I do?!

>>62817
Try and knock down the wall! If loyalty has to save the king she can't chase you.

Since when is it a good idea to force a fucking angel's apprentice-guy-thing into servant hood ever a good idea? What would you call yourselves, anyhow? Just a wielder? that isn't very intimidating...

I suggest appealing to Loyalty's draining loyalty with some diplomacy. Something along the lines of "Loyalty, come on, you don't want to work with this guy. You don't want to help this guy. Comfort here is definitely not comfortable and I'm probably developing a multiple personality disorder as we speak. Obeying this guy has to be draining you of every fiber of your being. Wouldn't it be relaxing to be a free bird? Your tired voice shows what you want."

>>62817
"We'll leave the kingdom as quickly as possible.
Is that sufficient?"

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)00:20 No. 62914 ID: f7ac6f
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>>62821
HRRRRRNNNNNNN-HAH!

Oh wait, wood doesn't work like that...

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)00:21 No. 62918 ID: f7ac6f
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>>62835
I'm not 'just a wielder.' I am the Wielder of the Sword of Virtue. And it's only a good idea to threaten a Wielder when you have a stronger one on your side! Why are we even having this discussion now?!

"Loyalty, come on, you don't want to work for this man. You don't even seem to like him. Comfort here is in agony and my mind lies in fragments, surely your obedience to the King is taxing your every fiber of being. Wouldn't it be relaxing to be free? I can hear it in your voice!"

Loyalty's face contorts with rage. "You fool, you think I am struggling to serve him?!"

"Silence, you whore!" The King turns and smacks Loyalty across the face. She falls to the ground, but I'm not sure why. No strike from a mortal man should have been able to knock a Wielder of her experience down.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)00:22 No. 62922 ID: f7ac6f
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>>62855
"Look," I call out, sensing that this is reaching a crescendo. "We'll leave the kingdom as quickly as possible. Is that sufficient?"

"You're not leaving until I have those Swords, one way or another! Loyalty!" He turns to the woman on the ground. "Kill them!"

She hesitates a fraction of a second before charging and tackling Comfort faster than I could blink. She hasn't drawn her Sword... yet, but she is still pummeling Comfort with her fists. I, however, remain standing and unaffected by Loyalty's attack. I see the King's eyes widen as if in slow motion, fear evident on his face. He made a critical mistake by not being specific enough with Loyalty, and he knows it.

Time slows to a crawl. I can see him drawing a breath to fix his error. What should I do? Help Comfort? Strike down the King? Leave now?

>>62922
Kill the King! Cut him in twain! He is the source of the problem.

Can you disable the King without killing him? You wanted to fight evil, not rulers with ego problems, and regicide is not going to do much for your reputation as a new Wielder.

Also, what's with all the first person singular? The rest of us would like some acknowledgement.

>>62922
>>62928
yea, kill his ass. looks to be the best and only way

Feudalism you say?

>>62979
He's keeping a wielder hostage to his whims. Seems pretty evil.

>>62922
Regicide time.

Take it slow take his legs of and watch the bastard crawl.

>>62922
ANIMU STYLE RUNNING BY AND THEN THEY EXPLODE IN GORE THING

Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)15:41 No. 63174 ID: 732c19
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>>58459
>>62979
Make up our mind would ya?!

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)15:42 No. 63175 ID: 732c19
File 12553009435.gif - (462.57KB , 640x400 , V317.gif )

[Mega Animated]

Then we agree. The King will die by my hands.

>>63175
Now, get Comfort and LEG IT

Totallynotsamefag!!V1AJL5LzHl 2009/10/11(Sun)15:47 No. 63179 ID: 895b3e
File 12553012499.jpg - (41.17KB , 500x479 , just-as-planned.jpg )

>>63175
haha! Fuck yea! very nice one!

Now, get leg and COMFORT!

Do we know if Loyalty is loyal now that the king's dead?

Either way, let's help out Comfort.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)19:15 No. 63257 ID: eea2f0
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>>63180
I'm not taking one of the king's legs. That's just weird.

>>63208
Loyalty has stopped moving entirely, but Comfort looks hurt. Loyalty really did a number on her.

>>63257
Oh, for...
Drag them both out.
Then GTFO of the castle and city.
Maybe snag some supplies on the way out.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)19:17 No. 63259 ID: eea2f0
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Comfort has several wounds on her face and a nasty black eye forming, but she's able to stand. Loyalty, on the other hand, is shivering and sobbing quietly.

Should I say anything to her or just take Comfort and leave?

>>63259
Ask her why she worked for the king.

>>63259
I say sling her over a shoulder and leave.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)20:20 No. 63277 ID: eea2f0
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>>63267
"Loyalty, why did you serve the king?"

She speaks almost immediately, her voice wavering with emotion. "I knew what the Sword of Loyalty would do before I claimed it, but I didn't care at the time. Bound to serve the one I loved until he died? What a small price to pay for so much power. I thought I could make my husband happy, build a better life with him. But he... the Sword twisted him, or maybe he just got greedy, I don't know. He began to see me as less than his wife. I was a just a means to an end."

She looks up at Comfort and winces at the sight of her face. "This kingdom was built through bloodshed I've caused because of him. I've done... horrible... I don't even want to live anymore! But the Sword won't let me rest: now I must serve the murderer of my previous master. And his murderer after him."

"What would you have me do?"

>>63277
We have two choices.
The first is to bring her along and make her atone.
The second is to tell her to kill herself.
...Neither is particularly appetizing.

"No orders yet. But Loyalty, wouldn't you rather make amends, right the wrongs he has done using you, than just abandon life?"

"Tell me your real name." I know you might not like your name or your previous identity, Kevin, but she might have. We need to practice our smooth talking skills.

We could just tell her to live her life and that will make us happy. That is after she gives medical attention to Anna, plus give us all the information of the swords she can.

>>63281
That's a question.
Would telling her to do whatever she wanted to do and to ignore further orders from her 'owner' no matter their content break the universe?

I say we do the genie thing and order her to be free, assuming that's a possible order.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)21:05 No. 63304 ID: eea2f0
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>>63281
"What was your birth name?"

"Loyalty was born 20 years-"

"No, what was your name before you were Loyalty?"

Her voice wavers again. "It... it doesn't matter."

"Tell me."

"Rebecca Depaul," she replies immediately. I'm not really sure what the point of that was...

>>63279
"No orders yet. But Loyalty, wouldn't you rather make amends, right the wrongs he has done using you, than just abandon life?"

"I can't make any amends unless you tell me to. And then I'll only be carrying out your orders. There is no redemption for me, no chance for true atonement. The people of Calumet hate and fear me. They'll chase me out or try to kill me, and I'm not sure I would try to stop them. No. I just want to leave this place and all these memories."

>>63281>>63298

"Well what if I told you to live you life however you want to?"

Loyalty shakes her head sadly. "The Sword keeps me bound to you. If I left I would be fine for a few days, maybe even weeks. But the thought that I'm not serving you to the best of my ability would keep me up at night, clawing at my mind like a ravenous beast until I went mad."

>>63278
I'm not liking this much either, but I'm not sure what other choice we have...

>>63304
Alright, first order of business is to get out.
Then we'll find a secluded spot, tell her to make the next decision with no influence from the sword, and ask what she wants to do next.
So tell her this plan, then ask her politely to help you with Comfort.

Or we can go the asshole powergrab route and use her to make us king.

>>63305
I don't know about giving her a chance to kill herself right now, things are still pretty bad. Why not tell her to see how she feels about it a month from now, and we'll let her make her choice then.

Well, if she can go a few days without serving us then we should split up for a few days to make a better decision. The city isn't safe so lets meet up with Rebecca at the closest town.

Make her tell us what she knows about the swords before we leave. Pack up a lunch too.

A good thought is that we could use her for training before we decide whether or not to kill her.

>>63305
And whatever else we do, I insist that we be POLITE and phrase orders as suggestions or questions.

Because there are lines I hate to smudge.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)23:32 No. 63340 ID: eea2f0
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The king is dead... I could claim the throne myself and rule Calumet. With Comfort at side and Loyalty under my thumb, we could rule this nation and make things better-

No, I don't really want to rule, do I? But what about this nation? We just killed its ruler and Loyalty's coming with us. Will the people revolt? What if a neighboring nation takes advantage and invades? A lot of people might die because of our actions...

And what to do with Loyalty? Tell her to meet us in another town while we get supplies from the city? Sit down and have a chat with her? Leave the town immediately with her in tow?

I- I feel like we're at a crossroads now and want to make sure we consider all the options. There still haven't been any sign of any guards; Loyalty says the King cleared them out because he knew they'd be useless against a Wielder. So we have at least a little time to think.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/11(Sun)23:33 No. 63342 ID: eea2f0
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Regicides commited: 1/??
Characters lost: 0/2


Sorry to end the chapter this way, guys. I figured it was getting a little long and we've got some differing opinions on what to do next, so this would be a good time to discuss the options and come to an agreement on a plan.

Also, congrats on getting the best end possible out of this encounter. It was very likely Comfort would have died instead of just being wounded, but I'm glad you guys pulled it off.

Swords of Virtue - Chapter 4 Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/12(Mon)15:06 No. 63532 ID: 9e6ff3
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Hmm, it seems I'm still not sure what to do next. Might as well take care of some immediate needs while I think.

>>63281
>>63305
>Medical treatment for Comfort and quiz Loyalty about Swords.

I start cleaning Comfort's wounds with some cloth and the last water in my canteen. She doesn't even flinch as I gently wipe the blood off and clean the cuts.

"So Loyalty, I've been trying to figure out why your Sword doesn't make you incapable of loyalty. My Sword split my mind and Comfort is in agony all the time, so shouldn't you be lacking loyalty or something?"

She nods her head her head slowly in understanding. "So that's why you asked me- Well, the answer is that I'm not really sure. I wasn't allowed to do much research before..." she trails off and she looks at the corpse at the end of the hallway. "But I do have a theory. The legends say the Demons all died in the final battle between good and evil, right? But they don't say what happened to the Angels. Well what if the Demons had managed to capture some of the Swords and... I don't know, reverse their power or something? Made them evil so they forced a corruption of their Virtue onto people?"

A shrug accompanies the uncertainty in her voice. "Not like I have any evidence to point to though..."

"Hmm, it is an interesting theory. I've also been wondering, how come you and Comfort both know who and where other Wielders are and I why can't I do the same thing?"

She shrugs again. "I don't know how it works, it just does. Just like how I can run faster than any normal human. Just part of the overall package. And don't worry, you'll start feeling it before long. I think it took several days for me, and some training. Comfort, how long have you had your Sword?"

Comfort mumbles an answer before clearing her throat and repeating herself louder. "Just over a week."

"Yeah, I wouldn't worry about it, you'll get the hang of it soon enough," Loyalty says reassuringly.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/12(Mon)15:07 No. 63536 ID: 9e6ff3
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I've got Comfort cleaned up now. She looks better; the injuries weren't too severe. "How are you feeling, does it hurt?"

"Always."

"Er, I, uh... I meant your face."

"Oh, no, I barely notice that. It's nothing in comparison."

"Oh, well... good." My voice sounds unenthusiastic to my ears, but at least Comfort seems to be in a bit better mood now.

hrm, I'd say grab some food and water really quickly then head for another city. Hopefully without their corrupt leader they will do fine.

Let's get some provisions together. We can't stay here and hold this city together, we gotta move on.

Ask Loyalty who should be in charge, what should be started to get this kingdom to a better state.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/12(Mon)20:50 No. 63763 ID: 35deb8
File 125540580717.png - (481.01KB , 640x400 , V403.png )

>>63693
I'm torn between a desire to help out and the need to get out of here quickly. How about a compromise? I instruct Loyalty to track down the most capable and honest person in the current government and put them in charge. I'm sure they'll come up with a plan on how to do it peacefully (a fake coup maybe?) and I told Loyalty to head to the village to the north of Beauvai after so we could meet up with her there. Pretty good plan, huh?

>>63590
>>63648
Right, supplies and go. Sometimes simple is best. Water is easy to get from the well, and there are all sorts of dried foods at the market that are ideal for adventurers. I fill up our canteens while Comfort grabs the munchies. This isn't the first time we've had to steal to eat... adventuring tends to leave you poor and hungry, a bad combination for the moral folk.


Anything else to grab while we're here or is it time to finally put this city behind us?

I wouldn't be so sure you'll be able to sense other wielders in time. You've got one of the ironic swords, after all. Wouldn't it just be the icing on the cake if Unity were cut off from the bonds between all other wielders, a solitary swordsman?

>>63763

leave the city we're done here.

Have we checked the king's corpse for useful items, yet? Let's do that if we haven't.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/13(Tue)14:08 No. 64122 ID: 49c49c
File 125546813270.gif - (83.86KB , 640x400 , Error file not found.gif )

>>64076
No, I forgot to do that. Oops.

Running back to the keep and looting the body yields one fancy golden dagger and a coin bag. The dagger is far too conspicuous to be able to pawn off and we all have Swords, so it is left behind. The bag, on the other hand, has 6 silver coins and around 20 bronze ones. There's enough here to pay a laborers daily wages for over 45 days! Money added to inventory.


>>64072
Right! Time to go and meet up with Loyalty.


[Animated]

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/13(Tue)14:11 No. 64123 ID: 49c49c
File 125546827526.png - (41.87KB , 640x400 , V405.png )

The village is much tinier than the city, but also much more populated. There's a large crowd gathered and when we get closer we realize that the object of their attention is Loyalty.

The townsfolk seem pretty angry, but I can't hear what Loyalty's saying to them. What should I do?

Well, we'd better go see what's going on. Don't barge in before we know what they're talking about, though.

>>64123
Oh dear. She did mention something about the people of Calumet hating her, didn't she?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/13(Tue)14:56 No. 64169 ID: 49c49c
File 125547096019.gif - (195.93KB , 640x400 , V406.gif )

>>64135
Okay, I think if I get closer I can hear-

"Please, don't do this!" Loyalty sounds like she's pleading. "I'm leaving soon and I promise I won't be back ever again!"

"We'll make sure of that!" A gruff voice called back, immediately followed by a chorus of 'yeah!'s.

[Animated]

The crowd erupts into screams of anger, terror, and pain. I think I can hear Loyalty crying in the middle of it all, but it might be my imagination.

Okay, it's time to go badass on these bastards.

I say we rush in there and start breaking heads. Try not to kill anyone, but we gotta break this up, so if we have to...

>>64169
Right, she needs extraction.
See if you can use APPARENT SUPERSPEED to grab her and jump out.
Even better, just yell her name and wave your arms. Once she sees you, point in a direction and leg it.

>>64177

Before she kills the whole town.

>>64169
Order her to flee without hurting (or at least killing) anyone.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/13(Tue)16:14 No. 64256 ID: 49c49c
File 125547567933.gif - (136.87KB , 640x400 , V407.gif )

>>64176
>>64177
There's no way she'll be able to hear me over the din of the mob, but you're right: I need to get in there and get her out. Here goes nothing!

[Animated]

We run from the village, pausing only when we can no longer hear the yells of hatred directed our way. Loyalty is unharmed, but she looks distraught.

"What happened back there?"

"You told me to wait in the town, so I did. The townsfolk wanted me out but I couldn't leave. They threatened me. I can't intentionally sabotage my ability to serve you so... I had to- I had to fight back."


Oh man, she seems on the verge of tears. How was I supposed to know that would happen?

>>64256
Get Comfort over here.
Try to find out how much leeway she has in these orders, and, I feel it necessary to add, stop ordering her around.
Just because she's forced to follow the orders is no reason to be impolite.

>>64256
When was Loyalty specifically told to wait? Orders are supposed to be vague, if done right she would have been able to attempt to meet us along our path.
From now on we must remember the exact words we say to Loyalty, not just the gist.

Let's ask why she couldn't keep out of their reach, and apologise profusely for being too specific.

Order her to negate your previous orders for your optimal survival, mentally, not just physically, when necessary to serve us better in the future? Might be risky though. May have to ask her if it will work, do not order her, however, this is a question of a possible future and is not an order you are placing in effect as of now. Be very clear on this.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/13(Tue)17:28 No. 64303 ID: 49c49c
File 125548010754.png - (15.87KB , 640x400 , V408.png )

>>64263
Comfort came with us.

I didn't mean it as an order! I just... said to wait for us in the village. I was relaying the plan, not trying to give her a command, dammit!

>>64264
I said that after telling her to get things in order in the capital. I didn't realize the wording would be so important...

"Why didn't you just run around, staying away from them?"

"I thought I could talk to them, convince them to leave me alone. They surrounded me and... they got so close. It all happened so fast, instinct kicked in. And... I butchered them."

"Loyalty, I'm so sorry. I never meant for this to happen. I didn't know-"

"No! You didn't know!" Emotion chokes her voice and contorts her face. The sorrow is nearly tangible in the air. "Because you didn't care to ask!"

"You're right. I was impatient. I was foolish. I didn't take the time I should have. It was my fault, and I'm sorry. I'm not used to this yet. Please forgive me."

She cries silently for a while. I feel awkward, not wanting to get too close in case she's still angry but knowing she needs human contact too. And Comfort's being aloof as always. I try nodding towards Loyalty with my head but Comfort just shrugs.

"I don't see what the big deal is. So some people bought it. It happens all the-"

"Comfort...!" I cut her off with a glare. "Not really helping here."

She shrugs again and wanders off.

This is much harder than I thought it would be.

Bull D: We can't know everything to ask, she should've said something!

... I'm sad ;_; How can we fix this?

Checkit out. Made some stat cards for the characters. I posted them in the discussion thread if anyone wants to take a look: http://www.tgchan.org/kusaba/questdis/res/313936.html#314487

Ask if all the towns of this land are likely to have a such violent reaction to her. If so it may be better to head for Dunn, or if she thinks she would enjoy some wilderness training head for mountains. Also, ask her about the little book and if she knows a place where they might be able to read that.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/14(Wed)15:08 No. 64800 ID: 45396a
File 125555811138.png - (11.45KB , 640x400 , V409.png )

>>64318
>>64726

[No action taken to comfort Loyalty. -3 Empathy.]


I... feel sad. But I didn't do anything, I have no reason to be sad. I don't like this feeling. I try and look out for her feelings and look what happens. And You're right, there was no way I could have known!

"Maybe you should have said something, huh?"

Loyalty looks up in horror and confusion, her lip quivering. I cut her off before she can start crying again. "Are all the towns in Calumet going to give you such a violent reception?"

"Y-yes... probably. Less s-so the further from the c-capital we get."

"Fine. Then we'll be heading for Dunn unless you'd prefer some solitude, in which case we can train up in the mountains."

"I... will go wherever my master instructs me," she replies, her tone resigned.

"Yes, you will. And you'll also answer my simple question."

"The m-mountains would be nice."

"Good. Thank you. Also, do you know where I can get an ancient book translated?"

"N-... No. Maybe one of the universities?"

Ask her if we can order her to have a higher self-esteem.

The mountains then where you can teach me how not to be such a dick. Fractured mind: Attention span of a goldfish. And to actually use the sword before we risk running into another like you.

After that we'll go to some university to try our luck and see if we can dig more info on these swords. Like would we be able to transfer the loyalty to some mortal without killing me because eternal servitude does not really sound so good. And what if that mortal just dies of old age.

>>64819
... that's just messed up dirtbag.

>>64800
ask which in particular would be the closest and not generally hostile.
Have her mark somewhere in the mountains that might be a good place to meet up. Then tell her to Explore in that area (up to about 50 miles away) for resources (food, water, good camp sites) for at least an hour. She is allowed to do anything else she wants during the time we find someone to handle the book, but to be at that exact point at noon every day until we meet up with her, so to make it easier to find her once we are done.



... also apologize, that first bit was rather heartless.

>>64800
...give her a hug.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/14(Wed)16:39 No. 64838 ID: 45396a
File 125556356331.gif - (136.29KB , 640x400 , V410.gif )

rolled 2 = 2

---

[There are two opposite suggestions of order, so a 1 means we go to the mountain first and a 2 means we find a university first]

>>64819
"Can I just order you to have a higher self esteem?"

"Yes, but it would only change my attitude, not my thoughts. But if it would make you happier..."

>>64829
"Alright then, let's head to the mountains. Hopefully... we'll be able to smooth things out with training and hard work. After that we'll find a university and do some research. Sound good?"

She nods her agreement.

>>64831
She says she knows a secluded place in the mountains she used to visit before she found her Sword, and it should be ideal for training. She marks the location on the map, and I tell her to go make sure it's well stocked and then do whatever she wants until we meet her up there, checking the spot at noon every day. Before she leaves I make sure to apologize. She thanks me, but I don't think she believes me...

>>64835
...so I give her a hug. I think I catch her by surprise based on how she tenses up, but she slowly hugs me back. It seems to calm her down and I'm glad we split up on that note.

[Better late than never! +5 Empathy.]

I'd better go find Comfort. Where did she wander off to? We'll need to leave soon if we're going to avoid whatever storm is causing all that rumbling.

I think the rumbling might be coming from those houses over there. That's some weird dark flashes, to be sure.

Let's try to use that whole "Wielder sense" thingy. I mean, might as well try, right?

Gotta find Comfort and see how she's doing.

>>64838
(oh man, we are going to get such a bad rep so fast...)

that's not a storm, looks like explosions or something in the town. Get a better look.

Comfort is slaughtering a village, you really should go ask what the hell she thinks she's doing.

Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/14(Wed)17:15 No. 64862 ID: 45396a
File 125556570816.png - (49.30KB , 300x300 , Hug.png )

Gotta head out for dinner. Will respond as soon as I get back. In the meantime, have a hug. :3

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/14(Wed)19:27 No. 64890 ID: 023b2b
File 125557365026.gif - (133.33KB , 640x400 , V411.gif )

>>64852
'Wielder sense' still isn't working. Presumably that's part of what I'll learn in the mountains.

>>64850
>>64853
Oh... that's the village we just left...

[Animated]

Whoa, what the hell are you doing?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/14(Wed)19:34 No. 64902 ID: 023b2b
File 125557406337.png - (46.84KB , 640x400 , V412.png )

>>64861
>>64895
"Comfort, what the hell are you doing?!"

"Oh, hey Unity," She greets me cheerfully, seemingly oblivious to the violence around her. "You're just in time; I'm done. Got the last one. Now Loyalty doesn't have to feel bad: they all would've died no matter what she did. Let's go tell her, she'll be so relieved!"

>>64902
That's a lie because you wouldn't have done this if the visit had gone as planned.

Also WHAT THE FUCK

>>64902
Unicode stare Comfort. FFS, woman! Jesus fuck on a jackhammer!

>>64902
Say "Okay, let's go."

Then when we get to Loyalty, order her to kill Comfort immediately. Help her out with this order.

She's trying to comfort Loyalty. How nice.

Okay, well, we can't kill Comfort. Just head back to Loyalty and make sure we keep an eye on Comfort and her craziness.

>>64902
That's not comforting!
That's not comforting at all!

I think we need to keep an eye on her from now on. A very close eye. Wielders seem to have some serious issues.

>>64945

But not us! We're all a perfectly normal person.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/14(Wed)20:21 No. 64963 ID: 023b2b
File 125557685841.png - (57.18KB , 640x400 , V413.png )

I don't even know... where to begin. She's killed everyone, there's corpses everywhere, men, women, children... everyone.

But... she's still my best friend. I'm not going to try to hurt her unless we all decide it's necessary. And... ohhh Anna... what's happened to you?

>>64909
"Comfort... your reasoning is faulty. If things had gone fine earlier than you wouldn't have had any reason to come back and kill everyone. Now Loyalty is going to feel responsible for everyone's deaths."

She looks indignant for a moment before responding. "Well that's selfish, she's not the one who killed these people, I did! She shouldn't go around trying to take responsibility for everything."


Ugh, that failed to explain things to her. There's got to be something I can say, some way to put it to make her realize what she did was wrong. But then again I might not know enough about how she's thinking now, so maybe I should question her first. Or we could just move on and pretend this never happened... Sigh.

Be a man, she deserves the honest truth that she's probably lost most of her humanity. Her justification is that of a sociopath. As her friend you have to tell her this. There is right, morally ambiguous, wrong, and completely fucking wrong. When something completely fucking wrong happens you need to lay down the law, friend or not.

I'm not saying battle her or hate hate your friend, just get to the point.

>>64969

I pretty much agree with this... except make sure and tell her that when Loyalty is around, so we have a guaranteed victory.

>>64963
She hasn't explicitly stated her reasoning for killing them all. I mean, if she's saying Loyalty had nothing to do with it... why'd she do it? Ask her that.

Comfort, why did you do it? Can't you see that the only thing you've done is cause more pain and suffering? When Loyalty only wished that nobody should have died, you killed them all. You haven't helped anybody. Did you really do it for her or did you do it because the sword wanted you to? Does it speak to you?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/14(Wed)22:05 No. 65036 ID: 023b2b
File 125558314112.png - (57.00KB , 640x400 , V414.png )

>>64969
Right, tell her straight up, no beating around the bush.

>>64973
I really don't think we should tell Loyalty that this happened. And Comfort wouldn't attack me... right?

"Comfort, you're acting sociopathic. You're losing touch with your humanity. You just ended all these people's lives on a whim for no good reason! That's not helpful, Anna. That's evil."

She looks at the ground for a bit before answering. I can see her thinking it over, but her head pops back up rather quickly. "'No good reason'? I... I did it so Loyalty would be happier and... and maybe then you wouldn't have to keep paying her so much attention, maybe."

>>64981
Uhh... I don't know what to make of that. But I guess it answers that question.

"But, what you did was still wrong. You killed a bunch of innocent people. Your losing your humanity."

"What are you talking about, Unity? We gave up our humanity willingly... we're more than human now. Can't you feel it? We Wield the weapons of the Angels! We can run circles around the fastest living animal, we won't ever grow a day older, arrows bounce off our skin... Does that sound like a human to you? Why should we concern ourselves with the pointless daily routines of mortals who are here one instant and gone the next?"

What scares me most is how much her words resonate with me: she's right.

>>65002
"Comfort, can't you see that the only thing you've done is cause more pain and suffering? When Loyalty only wished that nobody should have died, you killed them all. You haven't helped anybody. Did you really do it for her or did you do it because the Sword wanted you to? Does it speak to you?"

She looks a bit quizzical at this line of questioning. "My... Sword? I don't get what you mean. The Sword is an extension of me, it speaks to me through its gentle caress, it chides me with it's sharp prods, it rewards me with blessed pain. No, you're wrong Unity. I've caused no pain, no suffering. I killed these people: I ended their pain. I set them free from their miseries. They are no longer burdened by the weight of existence. They would be thanking me if they could still speak."

"We should care about mortals because we were mortals. It's out of respect. Sure, in our old lives we were nothing, but we still loved others did we not? Weren't humans special then? And about their pain, this world weighing down on them... isn't the sword weighing down on yourself and hurting you? You still want that sword though. What if they wanted life as much as you want that sword?"

Or you could justify your mercy to humanity and compassion to Loyalty because your a true gentleman. That chivalry is the most important aspect to an angel.

Totallynotsamefag!!V1AJL5LzHl 2009/10/14(Wed)22:27 No. 65052 ID: 704c80
File 125558442782.jpg - (105.01KB , 698x389 , oh god get away.jpg )

>>65036
ok, seriously dude I'm freakin speechless. Personally, I don't want this kind of reputation, we don't have to be like other wielders, we can do the right thing... but I think your friend may be beyond saving for that cause, especially if she can't handle not being the center of attention for 2 damn minutes. Please seriously consider the possibility of having to kill her, but for now let's just get out of dodge.

What about everyone left behind, what about their memory? For everyone you kill there will be someone who their death touches. The pain they feel when they know they will never see their loved ones. Will you kill them too to end their pain? What about loyalty, she will be horrified by what you have done, what you will do. Will you kill her also? How about the other sword wielders, they also must have some connections to others, when your cycle of death touches them what will you do? And what about me, while I admit I know none here I am pained by your actions and the feelings they bring. Are you to end my pain like this also?

Will Comfort only be satisfied when there is no one left in this world to feel anything?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/15(Thu)00:02 No. 65075 ID: 023b2b
File 125559015320.gif - (25.96KB , 300x350 , V415.gif )

>>65052
I... I... Anna and I have been through so much. We used to do everything together. And things have been weird between us this past week. I don't think she's trying to be the center of attention, I just think she misses the bond we used to share and is trying to fight to get it back. I miss it too but...


>>65051
"We should care about mortals because up until a week ago we were mortals. Don't you remember how we used to think, used to hope... used to care? Losing our humanity doesn't make us better off, it leaves us without the very thing that makes us special. What use is remaining young for eternity if we stop living?"

"I... I don't... know."

"And yes they may live with pain, but pain is what lets them know they're alive. The ability to feel pain is just one side of the coin. Being alive means knowing pain, yes, but it also means knowing true peace, true joy, true... comfort. And in death they know nothing at all: no peace, no joy, no comfort. You've saved them from the downs but in the same fell stroke you've deprived them of all the ups."

"I d-didn't mean to-"

>>65056
"And what about everyone left behind? For everyone you kill there will be someone who their death touches. The pain they feel when they know they will never see their loved ones. Will you kill them too to end their pain? What about Loyalty? She will be horrified by what you have done, what you will do. Will you kill her also? When will your cycle of death stop? What about me, while I admit I know none here I am pained by your actions and the feelings they bring. Are you to end my pain like this also?

"Will Comfort only be satisfied when there is no one left in this world to feel anything?"


For the first time Anna appeared to recognize our surroundings. I watched as every person she had killed, every wound she had inflicted registered in her eyes as though she was seeing them for the first time. She looked down at her hands, at the blood dripping from them, both her own and that of her victims, and she wept. Regret and sorrow surged through her so strongly that had I not stepped forward to support her she would have fallen to the ground. I held her for a long time as she let loose tears for the evil deeds she had done, repeating over and over, "Kevin, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry Kevin." And every time I told her, "It's okay, Anna. It's alright."

[Animated]

>>65056
Probably, yes. So it might not good to give her such ideas.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/15(Thu)00:08 No. 65079 ID: 023b2b
File 125559053518.png - (24.80KB , 640x400 , V4.png )

Anna Empathy points: +8
Not being a dick points: -3 (later revised to +2)


Finally I think our hero can catch a moment's rest as he begins his training. Or is that difficult too... I forget. Tune in next time to find out!

Swords of Virtue - Intermission Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/15(Thu)16:30 No. 65169 ID: 58b001
File 125564943320.png - (255.11KB , 640x400 , Intermission by Fire.png )

We burned the village. Not to cover it up but, you know: a village full of corpses is how plagues get started. Comfort insisted she do most of the work, but other than that she hasn't said much. As we watch the fire consume the huts I finally have a little time to reflect. So much has happened in such a short time.

It seems like a lifetime ago but it was just this morning that I found the Sword of Unity and became a Wielder. That's when my mind was splintered and the voices started. After that I met up with Comfort again and things were a bit weird at first. I guess that's part of entering a new phase of life, relearning everything we had taken for granted.

Next we headed north for the capital city of Beauvai, where we found the whole town under curfew. Loyalty met us at the city gates and escorted us to the keep to meet the king. The king offered us a place in his army as knights, but Comfort and I decided to turn him down. He didn't like that decision and tried to have Loyalty kill us... so I killed him. That broke his hold over Loyalty and made her serve me, although we still aren't really sure how that works.

Then I had Loyalty set up a replacement goverment for Calumet (since we destroyed the old one...) and told her to meet us in the village to the north while we got some supplies and looted the king's body. When we got to the village we witnessed a fight break out as Loyalty defended herself against the angry townsfolk. I got her out of there but she was still distraught, so after a bit of difficulty I managed to get her to calm down. Now she's waiting in the mountains for when we head up for training.

And that's about when I noticed comfort had slaughtered the whole village for some misguided reason. I talked some sense into her, but I'll still need to watch her closely. She feels repentant, so hopefully the worst is past. For some reason though, I doubt it.

Swords of Virtue - Chapter 5 Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/15(Thu)16:45 No. 65171 ID: 58b001
File 125565030176.png - (33.73KB , 640x400 , V501.png )

Location marked on map

Current Quest:
Get book translated (*Find university)

Active Quest(s):
Train with Loyalty (*Meet up with Loyalty in the mountains)
Research Swords (*Find university)


I think we're both ready to get out of here now. That column of smoke can probably be seen from miles away, so hanging around would be a bad idea. But where to now? Should we look for a university? I'm afraid I don't know where one is, and I don't have any maps of further up north. We could always just start moving and hope we run into something...

>>65171
Yeah, just head for the mountains.
The book might help you understand the swords better, but so will actually using the sword.
Besides, with how the sword abilities pan out so far, I'm guessing it translates to "Problem, Sword-Wielder?"

>>65172
I suppose we could just go, the book wont be any less translatable in the near future.

>>65171
I was gonna say head for the hyuuge city down south, but whatev.

Let's search a bit for the university. With our speed it won't take long to at least check out that city across the river.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/15(Thu)18:41 No. 65206 ID: 58b001
File 125565725298.gif - (62.60KB , 640x400 , V502.gif )

[From what I can gather we have 1 vote for training, 2 for translate (shot_trip in IRC), 1 neutral (totallynotsamefag), so we'll go with translate first.]

>>65172
The book isn't that short, so it might be more useful than that. It would be good to let someone get to work on translating it before I start training since it will likely take a while.

>>65185
Right, the city ought to have a cartographer or survival shop where we can pick up a map.

[Animated]

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/15(Thu)18:42 No. 65207 ID: 58b001
File 125565732716.png - (266.86KB , 640x400 , V503.png )

"Whooooo!"

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/15(Thu)20:19 No. 65228 ID: 58b001
File 125566319143.png - (26.02KB , 640x400 , V504.png )

This city is much more inviting than Beauvai was. There's no wall circling it and the hustle of people going about their business in the market district provides plenty of cover to mask the arrival of two more shoppers.

After being on the road for several months you learn to recognize the most useful shops. The ones that aren't flashy, in a sensible location, with a certain quality clientele. Every town has one, and Comfort and I make a game of seeing who can find it first. This time I did.

"The Traveler's Respite", the unassuming sign said. We went in to find a grizzled looking man behind the counter, dagger within easy reach. There are a number of maps on a counter next to him. A label says the price is 5 bronze coins a piece. I've got 6 silver coins, which are worth 20 bronze each, and 17 bronze coins, so I could afford the whole lot if it's necessary. There's a map of the whole continent, and one of each of the nations that neighbor Calumet: Dunn to the north, Adair further north than Dunn, Calcasieu to the west, Barraga to the east, and Cortland to the northeast.

Which ones should I buy? And should I ask the shopkeeper anything while we're here?

Glad we looted the king. Can we get one of each? Never know what could come in handy.

>>65228
let's go with just the whole continent, and the north and west neighbors. Ask him where we would find a good university too. If that's not on one of the maps we got, buy the map for it... and at no point show him how much money we have.

North, west and continent maps. Rest can be gotten when needed. Ask if there is an university here and do they allow visitors to do research there.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/15(Thu)22:55 No. 65250 ID: aec572
File 125567249837.gif - (100.42KB , 640x400 , V505.gif )

>>65234
>>65235
Makes sense to me. It's awfully cumbersome to have that many maps around, so just these three should be plenty unless the shopkeeper-

[Animooted]

Hats of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/15(Thu)22:56 No. 65251 ID: aec572
File 125567257051.png - (24.41KB , 520x400 , dressup gaems.png )

Alright guys, gimme your hat suggestions if you would. You can post pictures or draw 'em on yourself if you'd like.

You know what to do.

How do I shot trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2009/10/15(Thu)23:05 No. 65254 ID: 6faa8c
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>>65251

Insomnia 2009/10/16(Fri)04:45 No. 65267 ID: 8ca61a
File 12556935028.png - (6.67KB , 333x333 , somehat.png )

Quick, put this on, maow maow.

2009/10/16(Fri)06:33 No. 65270 ID: 43d730
File 125569998094.png - (19.49KB , 520x400 , whydoikeepdoingthis.png )

>>65251

>>65267
I swear to God if the rest of the quest doesn't have these...

Flynx!Gatekeeper 2009/10/16(Fri)08:11 No. 65277 ID: 18dd96
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>>65251
Fuck hats.

Suggestion 2009/10/16(Fri)08:17 No. 65278 ID: 5d5878
File 125570621595.jpg - (4.52KB , 188x165 , itsahat.jpg )

>>65251

Flynx!Gatekeeper 2009/10/16(Fri)08:22 No. 65280 ID: 18dd96
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>>65251

Suggestion 2009/10/16(Fri)11:55 No. 65318 ID: f4963f
File 125571927688.png - (45.40KB , 520x400 , Victims_Swords_of_Virtue.png )

>>65251

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/16(Fri)13:14 No. 65338 ID: de6a2d
File 125572404685.png - (39.02KB , 640x400 , V506.png )

With our silly anachronistic hats chosen, I get back to business.

"Where's the nearest university and are visitors allowed to do research there?"

The shopkeeper looks less than pleased to have to help out a customer but he grudgingly replies. "Your best bet is the academy in Trimdom, the capital of Adair. They have an extensive library, but you have to pay to access it. If you want somewhere closer, I think there's a place in Cortland. It's called... the 'Athenaeum of Knowledge', if I recall correctly. Had a fellow drop in a while ago who told of nearly limitless information on any subject, but you had to trade knowledge or do a task for them to get it. The guy seemed solid enough, but I still think Trimdom is your best bet."

That was... surprisingly helpful. I thank the man and grab the maps for Adair and Cortland. "Five maps at five bronze a piece and two hats at twelve bronze each will cost you 49 bronze."

That's a rather large sum. I have enough, but if the library in Adair has an entrance fee I don't know if the remainder will be enough. Should I try to barter with him? Or put something back? Then again I doubt he'd be able to catch us if we ran without paying?

We're going to pay. I'm not losing any of my Not A Dick points.

And we have to have the hats. I say we pay the money and go to that Athenaeum of Knowledge. Surely all of us together will be able to provide some knowledge to exchange, and even if we can't we can always do a quest.

That being said... do we go there before or after training?

>>65338
With everything we can do it should be easy to earn some money when necessary.

>>65338
Go ahead and pay it up, look for some simple job to make up for a portion of the lost money.

Simple being a very relative term, of course.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/16(Fri)16:12 No. 65377 ID: de6a2d
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I pay and thank the shopkeeper. He takes the money and then promptly goes back to pretending to ignore us. I guess it's time we decided what we're doing, so let's take a look at the map.

[This is the map for the continent of Ceylundor. The gray squares on the map represent areas for which we have a more detailed map, and can zoom in. The areas are: 1. Calumet; 2. Dunn; 3. Calcasieu; 4. Adair; 5. Cortland. If you'd like to examine a detailed map, just say so.]


Current Quest:
?

Active Quest(s):
Get book translated (*Go to academy in Adair)
Train with Loyalty (*Meet up with Loyalty in the mountains)
Research Swords (*Visit academy in Adair *Find Athenaeum of Knowledge in Cortland)
Get more money (*Find a job, bum)


What should we focus on first?

Let's meet up with Loyalty.

>>65383
we already said we'd research first, let's head to Adair and see what the situation is.

Situation has changed, since the universities are not on Cortland having Loyalty along for research no longer should invoke hostilities. We'll go see Loyalty first and see if she can put us at least to Comforts level.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/16(Fri)21:23 No. 65500 ID: de6a2d
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>>65383
>>65468
Um, right. The book can wait until we bring Loyalty along with us. After all, we did promise to let her do some research too...

To the mountains!

[Animated]

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/16(Fri)21:27 No. 65503 ID: de6a2d
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The spot Loyalty marked on the map correlates with a small clearing situated between two mountains. It's still pretty high up though, and the air is chillier.

When we get there though we find an old cabin. It must have been a grand sight when it was still intact, but now it's falling apart. Supports are missing, chunks of the wall have fallen off, and sections of floor have rotted through.

There's no sign of Loyalty, but she might be nearby. It's about two o'clock now, so Loyalty doesn't have to be back for another twenty two hours, unless she wants to.

What should we do in the meantime? Or should we go looking for her?

>>65500
TRAINING-FROM-HELL-MONTAGE TIEM
Seriously, tie a boulder to your back and jump back and forth across a river.
Go cut down trees until you can do it in one stroke.
Get up to full health and try to shoot laser beams from your sword.
Hold it out, focus your energy, then spin in a circle.
Run up trees.
Run up waterfalls.
Run up training partners.

>>65504
You are too speedy for your own good. =P

See: >>65503

It's where she found the sword or near it. Let's poke our nose in other peoples business and try to find where it came from. Look in cabin and try to see if this was Loyalty's home before or some ex-wielders. Any skeletons in closets?

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/17(Sat)00:28 No. 65548 ID: de6a2d
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>>65515
You're right, it could be interesting. She did say she knew this place, and since she's not around...

"Let's go look inside."

Anna gives me a weird look. "Are you nuts?"

"Come on, where's your sense of adventure?"

"It's in adventuring, not being stupid."

I shrug. "Well I'm going in."

She just shakes her head. "I'll be out here to dig you out when it collapses."

"That's not very comforting, Comfort."

I turn to walk into the building, mainly to hide my grin. And that's when I hear:

"You crack me up, Unity."

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/17(Sat)01:18 No. 65559 ID: de6a2d
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The first room of the house looks like it used to be a workshop or storage room, perhaps. It's wide open though, and completely barren. I carefully make my way inside, stepping over missing and rotting boards. The floor squeaks and groans with each step, as though protesting my presence.

I make it to the doorway for the next room, the door long gone. There's a dresser here, ancient and battered, leaning against the wall on one side of the room. On the other side is a staircase that wraps around the room to provide access to the upstairs floor. The staircase looks in decent condition, but the ceiling is terrible and I doubt it will hold my weight.

Actually I don't think this room will hold my weight for long at all. What should I do? And please hurry!

>>65559

Make your way to the dresser, loot everything intresting and then see if you can make it to the stairs. Just to take a peek upstairs. If the house starts to crumble jump through the window or wall to ensure you are not buried under anything.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/17(Sat)22:41 No. 66034 ID: 728e01
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>>65579

[Super Animated]

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/17(Sat)22:41 No. 66035 ID: 728e01
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[Animated]

Yeeeeeah!

Check that the house isin't following you like a boulder and stop before you hit a cliff.

>>66034

((That's pretty sleek animation))

>>66035
Well, nice save. Now get back up and see what Comfort's up to. Besides saying 'I told you so.'

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/17(Sat)23:51 No. 66066 ID: 728e01
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>>66048
Done, and done. Fortunately it stayed where it was, in spite of my awesome headgear.

>>66049
Thanks, but I didn't get to check the upstairs... Plus the cabin's kinda... destroyed now. And I'll never hear the end of it from Comfort.

[Animated]

"You're insane."

Speak of the devil. "Tell me that didn't look like fun."

"It looked like fun," she admits with mock hesitation. "And you are still crazy."

We both laugh, letting off some nervous energy. Now that I got some snooping out of my system, what should we do? We still have to find Loyalty... although the sound of the cabin collapsing might have been loud enough for her to hear it if she's relatively close by.

>>66066
Wait to see if she arrives, first. If not, look for nearby shelter where she may have rested - if she's been in the mountains for days, she may have tried to stay out of the elements, or out of sight.

>>66066
Did you manage to grab that photo that was in the drawer?

>>66066

Did you take a good look at that picture you found? Might as well start looking for her, check the immeadiate surroundings first.

Swords of Virtue Durandal!swQABHZA/E 2009/10/18(Sun)00:45 No. 66082 ID: 728e01
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>>66068
I did. Even as everything was collapsing around me my natural looting instinct kicked in. It's a family portrait, although the artist was obviously not very skilled. The woman looks a lot like Loyalty, only with black hair. The picture is really old, I'll roll it up in one of my maps to keep it safe.

>>66067
She hasn't been in the mountains that long, we only separated a few hours ago.

>>66069
Yeah, we can search the nearby area without getting too far from the cabin. And if it starts getting late we can look for shelter.