Runey Boi 2022/05/02(Mon)17:15 No. 1031037 ID: db4755
File 165153690913.png - (235.39KB , 1020x760 , 02b.png )

Also choose an elemental affinity and a history!

Elemental affinities give your champion advantages in magic and activities pertaining to the affinity. They'll also thrive when in an area that's abundant in their affinity, and have strengths and weaknesses against other affinities. (Water --> Fire= Water strong vs Fire)

Your champion's history will affect in-universe contextual activity such as conversation, behavior and skills. Choose from those available, or submit a custom history.

Female Kin with life magic and a merc background

Deffo going with Gilland.

Our "hero", actually began as a thief, trying to rise up in the undersea's criminal underworld by mastering earth magic, the essence that defied everything in his environ.
This affinity backfired, as it slowly imbued him for a sense of wanderlost towards dry land which, after a few too many encounters with local authorities in his home reef, finally pushed you into exploring the world of the landlubbers.

human male
life affinity
ordinary farmer

Human Male
Arcane affinity
Isekai protagonist

>>1031038
This

>>1031038
Seconding this

Female kin
Arcane
Thief

Male human
Life
Thief

>>1031038
This

Female Kin with Wind magic and a Noble background.

Sometimes I just want to be a part of the aristocracy, okay?

Male Human. Solely for the smug look that guy has.
Arcane Affinity.
Thief. Specifically a Rogue, specializing in fooling hapless adventurers and conning hapless villagers.

gilland male. Fire, thief.
(Or human male if gilland is completely thrown out the running)

Raccoon-Kin
Intersex
Earth
Spellthief

You were born in the glowslums, a horrible excuse of a labor camp which was designed to breed high-quality magic soldiers by exposing hundreds of peasants and their unborn children to acres of dirtland filled with unstable Wild Magic. Only those lucky enough to win the superpower lottery survive to adulthood.
As expected of your origins, you rose through the ranks of the Mages as fast as nobles, and more competently as well.
And then one day you somehow 'stole' the ability to cast magic from one of your less-than-courteous colleagues. And now you're on the run.
+ Extremely powerful magic
+ Magic Sense (low chance of innately understanding a spell before it is fully cast)
- Weakened constitution
- Mutations

>>1031075
This

Female kin, arcane mage.

>>1031067
This. Maybe some cat, racoon or wolf? The wolf kin you showed looks uber cute

>>1031075
This sounds fun

>>1031037
Human wizard with specs into arcane magic.
Lets go full magic baby!

Female Kin. Water. Otter.

Get the benefits of Gilland AND Kin!

>>1031101

Actually, ignore my original >>1031073
I like this idea of an aristocratic wind noble. We already got quests with mercs, let's be high society!

>>1031075
this

Runey Boi 2022/05/03(Tue)10:31 No. 1031118 ID: db4755
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Your champion is a female kin noble with a wind affinity! These attributes will present their own advantages and challenges during her quest, but I'm sure with your help she can overcome them all!

Runey Boi 2022/05/03(Tue)10:32 No. 1031119 ID: db4755
File 165159914830.png - (273.67KB , 1020x760 , 4.png )

Now that we've chosen our champion, we need to locate her! Please choose a starting land! Each land has it's own strife and climates which you'll learn more about once you're involved! You can also submit ideas for just what our little noble was DOING in this land! Home in the castle or keep? A diplomatic visit to another land? Feel free to submit ideas.

Falen Icelands: Chilly plains and forests of snow! Kin are native here! The Moralot Kingdom, though small in size, is located primarily here! Our noble belongs to this kingdom, so there would surely be lots of friendly folks here! Those with Wind affinities find advantage here, as well as those with water affinities.

Edge Mountains: Tall mountains and gigantic caverns beneath the surface! Kin are common here. The Moralot kingdom holds some power here, but it's mostly controlled by something that lives beneath the surface of the mountains... Those with Wind affinities will find advantage here, along with Earth affinities.

Uwashan Plains: Large plains and forests, lovely land! Kin are present here, but not widely welcomed. The Uwashan Empire controls this place. Those with Earth, Arcane, and Life affinities will find advantage here.

Filland Swamps: Murky, wet swamps cover this coast-land! Gillands are common here! The Uwashan Empire holds control over this place. Those with Water and Earth affinities will find advantage here.

Eyaran Desert: This land is made up of large stretches of hot desert! Home to the Eyaran people, who continue an ongoing war against the Uwashan Empire! Those with Fire and Earth affinities will find advantage here.

Koraban Islands: A collection of tropical islands! Gillands mostly control this place! Those with Water affinities will find great advantage here!

>>1031119
Ice ice ice!

>>1031120
Oh, and in their domain's largest city's town hall, answering petitions from the locals and addressing recent concerns.

Edge Mountains!

I'll agree with >>1031122 about our unnamed noble handling the public, giving her some role in politics. Unlike the old nobles, who are secure in their wealth and don't need to concern themselves with commonfolk, our character can be in a less-secure position, likely coming from a lesser family and requiring public support to maintain her position.

Tropical islands!
Let us have feel good sunny adventures!

Mountains, trying to negotiate a better/cheaper supply of metals to the Moralot kingdom.
Alternatively, desert, due to a pilgrimage that certain low-standing nobles are required to take to increase their standing.

Koraban Islands, on a 'diplomatic' trip. All nobles use this excuse to get a vacation, especially since those that take frequent vacations excel above their peers for some reason.
After all, vacation is technically illegal under Holy Law.

>>1031119
Falen Icelands

Our noble lady is extremely wealthy, but instead of greedily holding onto her wealth, she's extremely generous and frequently uses her own money to help the common folk. This makes her very popular and everyone loves her.

She's currently visiting the small town outside of her castle, in order to help with some of the political issues that are going on.

The obvious option is Falen Icelands, but is also kinda boring if we have all things on our side. I'm torn between Koraban Islands and Edge Mountains.

I vote for Edge Mountains as I find more sense for us to be there and because I'm curious about that "something beneath the surface". We could be sent to help some ally in their feud or be sent to investigate a misterious attack on a village as part of our training as noble.

For Koraban Islands a posible reason to be there could be a diplomatic mision to set up a comercial route which jumps over the Moralot Kingdom. It could be cool to help sailing using wind magic to always go downwind. (Also I like the idea of angst because it's too hot, too wet and the sand gets in the fur all the time)

>>1031128
Do this one!

Runey Boi 2022/05/04(Wed)10:31 No. 1031193 ID: db4755
File 165168549318.png - (338.14KB , 1020x760 , 5.png )

That's right, our champion riding along in a carriage, high in the Edge Mountains! Tasked by her father to join a mission to a small village, which has requested assistance in negotiations with natives! Quite the important mission! She must be beside herself with anxiety and excitement!

Runey Boi 2022/05/04(Wed)10:31 No. 1031194 ID: db4755
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Or... She WOULD be that way, if she weren't fast asleep! Must have been a long journey for her! But it's not over yet! You'd better call her name to help wake her up!

(Please choose a name for our champion!)

Maya

Mirenu Du Claive!

Rene du Bois.

Bobbert McDonner. It's very feminine in your home culture, but everyone else doesn't seem to think so

Fel'ta Hanselt

>>1031195
I like this name.

>>1031198
I like Maya, but this get extra point for remember to add surname.

Runey Boi 2022/05/04(Wed)17:32 No. 1031232 ID: db4755
File 165171076229.png - (433.20KB , 1020x760 , 7.png )

>Maya Du Bois

"Guh- I'm up I'm... awake. Are we there yet?"

That's right, her name is Maya Du Bois! Such a lovely, regal name! Look at our little lady!

Runey Boi 2022/05/04(Wed)17:33 No. 1031233 ID: db4755
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'...I swear somebody just said my name.. It must've been a dream... I'm sleepy!'

Here it is, the critical time of introduction! What will the first thing you say to Maya! Remember this will reflect on how she sees you forever! So whatever you do... Don't say anything completely ridiculous!

Nice tits.

>>1031233
Hello, Miss Maya, you have been chosen as a champion to help save the world and us spirits here to help guide you on your journey.

"Hello there! We need hands, like physical hands capable of doing things in the physical world. You might have't noticed it, but the world is about to collapse!. Maybe can you help us to stop the apocalypsis? Free if it can be, because of our lack of physical money..."

>>1031235
Succint statement. I support it.

>>1031233
>Don't say anything completely ridiculous!
You're not the boss of me! I'm gonna say, "Anything completely ridiculous!"

>>1031234
Also this!

But seriously, just say this >>1031235

>>1031234
*PUNCH*
"... But yes, this sums up 30% of our collective personality.
The good news is, if you're hearing us, it means you're going to be lucky! Like, really lucking lucky! We help heroes become legends and villains become overlords!

Our company has gone through many brands; The Orb of Infinite Psyche, TGChan Incorporated, Aaa Voices In My Head, and now, Questden. But our charter is as clear as ever: explore the multiverse, looking for adventurers and heroes to command and advise. We've lent our services from the lowliest of peasants to the highest of gods. We've turned some of said peasants into said gods!
And best of all, it's FREE*!

*Questden is not liable for any consequences as a result of actions taken based on consultation. Questden may be capable of assuming direct control of the client, nearby entities, and the fabric of reality. Any and all information collected by Questden can and will be used against the client in a court of law. Questden may not be persecuted for any sexual harassment within quests. Clients may be forced to integrate with each other in overly sexual and nonsensical events on occasion.

... tl;dr: You're not crazy, not yet. This is part of the cost of being a chosen one.
Now it's time for you to choose - answer the call in search of your heart's desire, or go back to your life?

... Look, we can prove we're not just insane voices in your head. Give us some unsolved mathematics theorems and we'll use our magic to find the right answer."

>>1031233
So good news bad news time:
Good news: you are now the lucky recipient of an entire crowd of otherwordly entities that can help observe and advise you through all manner of trying times

The bad news: A bunch of us are perverts and/or just interested in being entertained rather than your wellbeing, oh and if you talk to us you'll look crazy

>>1031235
Could also mention it's because the runes of magic fell from the heavens and scattered across the lands, cause unknown.

This is bad, yes? Yes.

Recover them all and save your world from chaos, Maya Du Bois.

Or you'll be stuck with us for QUITE some time.

Hiya Maya. Don't be alarmed, but you have spirits in following you now. Feel free to respond to us in your head, so that you don't look like an insane person talking to imaginary friends.

Runey Boi 2022/05/05(Thu)10:32 No. 1031304 ID: db4755
File 165177192379.png - (402.99KB , 1020x760 , 9.png )

>Nice tits.

"Wh-What!? My..."

>Hello, Miss Maya, you have been chosen as a champion to help save the world and us spirits here to help guide you on your journey.

"Champion? Spirits? What're you talking about? Who IS talking?!"

>Could also mention it's because the runes of magic fell from the heavens and scattered across the lands, cause unknown.

"I'm still totes confused!"

Runey Boi 2022/05/05(Thu)10:32 No. 1031305 ID: db4755
File 165177193906.png - (370.72KB , 1020x760 , 10.png )

>Recover them all and save your world from chaos, Maya Du Bois.

>Or you'll be stuck with us for QUITE some time.

"Could you guys slow down a sec? Did you say you were spirits?"

>A bunch of us are perverts

"I figured that part out at least!"

Runey Boi 2022/05/05(Thu)10:32 No. 1031306 ID: db4755
File 165177195704.png - (463.87KB , 1020x760 , 11.png )

>Feel free to respond to us in your head, so that you don't look like an insane person talking to imaginary friends.

"Wait, nobody else can hear you?"

Runey Boi 2022/05/05(Thu)10:32 No. 1031307 ID: db4755
File 165177197433.png - (488.56KB , 1020x760 , 12.png )

*glance*

Runey Boi 2022/05/05(Thu)10:33 No. 1031308 ID: db4755
File 165177199601.png - (415.88KB , 1020x760 , 13.png )

Oh.

Blame magic. Voices on the wind.

Think fast! "You know I am messing with you. Do you?"

Ask him if he's, what, never seen an insane person before?

Kindly request that your present company get those eyebrows under control. Those eyebrows are very powerful.

He's hot.
He's not your dad right? He's available?

>>1031308
Just pretend that you're still half asleep and you were having a really weird dream where you were talking to a bunch of ghosts. You thought you were still talking to them when you woke up.

Ignore him, he's silly.

Runey Boi 2022/05/05(Thu)12:51 No. 1031317 ID: db4755
File 165178031064.png - (390.28KB , 1020x760 , 14.png )

>Pretend you're still half asleep.

"Ohh my! I'm so tired... I was having this crazy dream, where I was speaking to a bunch of ghosts! Quite the odd dream, right? Haha! RIGHT??"

>Never seen an insane person before?

"Wh-What's wrong, never seen an insane person before? Haha just kidding! I'm just messing with you!"

>He's hot. He's not your dad right? He's available?

WHAT?? I mean he is available, but I would never- No he's not my dad! He's my-

Runey Boi 2022/05/05(Thu)12:52 No. 1031318 ID: db4755
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"Sister... Can you please try to act normal once we reach the village! The last thing father needs right now is another embarrassing incident like the Sumpter Festival! He's already angry with you enough! Try not to earn any more of his ire!"

"Yes, brother..."

He's my elder brother. Alto Du Bois. And his eyebrows ARE powerful.

>>1031318
Reminds me of Professor Oak.

Also, you are a bit of an airhead, aren't you? Well, fine. Tell him that we are here, also tell him you are keeping this to yourself and it shouldn't cause an issue.

>>1031318
"So no talking about voices in my head? Alright, alright. Spoilsport."

So, what is the Sumpter Festival and what did you do there?

>>1031318
>Sumpter Festival
Ok, now we've gotta know, what's he talking about?

>>1031322
More importantly, where are you headed and what is the nature of your punis-- mission here in the Edge Mountains?

Many things must be turning fair strange in the world with the runes of magic fallen down. Perhaps whatever troubles you are to address will involve one? You could ask your brother for the rundown if you forgot the most pertinent details.

As well, we've no formal knowledge of your better traits, other than a sense of your noble lineage and your wind affinity! What are your strengths as you see them, Maya Du Bois?

>>1031318
QUEST DISCOVERED!
Get brother a girlfriend or boyfriend!

We love playing matchmaker! Shouldn't be hard with those eyebrows, but he seems so serious, maybe that's why he's single. You should tell him to tone it down a notch, otherwise he'll scare all his potential partners off and make our job harder.

>>1031325
Maybe don't say any of this? Her brother already seems to be annoyed, we don't need to give him anymore reasons to not like Maya.

>>1031318
I already don't like your brother, he seems like he's an asshole.

By the way, Maya, just wanted to let you know that just because we're with you, that doesn't mean that you have to say or do everything we tell you. It's your choice and you get to decide if you want to say or do anything we suggest.

Not gonna lie, your bro is kinda hot (guess it runs in the family). Is he usually this upset though? Probably feeling like he is being punished for your mistake in a way. How is your relationship, is he usually an ass, and how much can you rely on him?

Gonna have to figure out how to sort out whatever tasks you have been given to keep you occupied, before fate decides to to mess with your life... more than it already has. Can't shirk your responsibilities with an insanity plea, after all.

>>1031327
>I already don't like your brother, he seems like he's an asshole.
Nonsense, he's trying to look out for his younger sister and his family more generally. Both are scions of the most venerable House Du Bois, and thus must maintain an impeccable poise before the common folk and high peers alike. Alto is presumably the heir to Maya's esteemed lineage; it is natural that he should be concerned for the dignity of their dynasty and his dear sister's duties and demeanour within it, with all that entails.

We should definitely find someone to get him laid though, he's too high-strung. Don't you want nephews and nieces, Maya? Or a court eunuch catamite to hatch conspiracies with?

Ok everyone, let’s slow down. Give Maya a chance to process everything that’s happening before we go dumping a bunch of information on her.

>>1031354
While that is true, he still didn’t need to be a dick about it.

Compliment your brother's eyebrows while you process the million spirits talking to you now

>>1031319
Oh yeah, I see the resemblance! We should get him some painted rocks that he can throw at the local zombies or something!

So... what are your skills, anyway? Please tell me you know how to defend yourself in a fight...

Runey Boi 2022/05/06(Fri)09:07 No. 1031386 ID: db4755
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>You're a bit of an airhead, aren't you?

Well, they DO say those with wind affinities tend to be airheaded! I'm totes not though!

>Many things must be turning fair strange in the world with the runes of magic fallen down...

Okay, what are these runey things? Magic history was a total snooze-fest so I slept through it.

>Ok everyone, let’s slow down. Give Maya a chance to process everything that’s happening before we go dumping a bunch of information on her.

Yes! One crazy head voice at a time please!

>What is the Sumpter Festival and what did you do there?

The Sumpter Festival is an annual festival held in Moralot where people gather and celebrate harvest and trade prosperity! As for what happened there...

Runey Boi 2022/05/06(Fri)09:07 No. 1031387 ID: db4755
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...I'd rather not talk about it.

>Get brother a girlfriend or boyfriend!
>Shouldn't be hard with those eyebrows, but he seems so serious, maybe that's why he's single.

Right?? I tell him all the time he just needs to loosen up a bit, but he's all... 'The needs of our kingdom come first!' like, come on! Just get laid!

>Your brother seems like an ass!
>How is your relationship with your brother?

He's a bit of a stick in the mud, but he's my bro! We used to be really close and play together a lot, but father started splitting us up when we got older and Alto just... got more serious, I guess!

>Your brother is hot.

I hope you guys are real spirits. I hope I'm not just crazy and can't stop thinking about how hot my brother is...

Runey Boi 2022/05/06(Fri)09:08 No. 1031388 ID: db4755
File 165185328328.png - (356.25KB , 1020x760 , 18.png )

>What's your mission. Ask brother for details?

Maya: "Hey, Alto. Why did father send us here again?"

Alto: "It's to help settle a trade negotiation between one of our villages and some natives. Something about demanding more money for the metals they're mining. It's as you might put it... a 'snooze-fest'"

>Compliment bro's eyebrows.

Maya: "You have nice eyebrows."

Alto: "I... Thank you."

>just wanted to let you know that just because we're with you, that doesn't mean that you have to say or do everything we tell you.

NOW you tell me! Honestly, it's strange. When I hear you, it's almost like they're my own thoughts and desires. It's a bit confusing.

>What are your strengths and skills?

Well, I'm a noble so I know my way around a fancy dinner party... People say I'm charming... I know some wind magic. I always liked it.

>Please tell me you know how to defend yourself in a fight...

I mean, I've play-fought Alto before when we were kids but... I'm a noble lady! Why would I ever need to know how to fight?

Runey Boi 2022/05/06(Fri)09:08 No. 1031389 ID: db4755
File 165185330043.png - (430.00KB , 1020x760 , 19.png )

*SLAM!*

Alto: "What was that?! We've stopped! Something's wrong!"

>I'm a noble lady! Why would I ever need to know how to fight?
you know in case someone tries to kidnap you for ransom since nobles tend to have money or kill you for political reasons. Normal noble stuff really.

>>1031389
This, this is the reason why.

But since you have wind affinity and are a noble you must know some vague magic right? Like flight or a speed boost, or a wind blade?

... right?

>I know some wind magic. I always liked it.

OK, what specifically can you do with it? What are the limitations?

Look outside.

Ok here is the plan. You seee a bad guy, you blast the living hell out of him, like, send him flying. If you can't do that, just try to keep them at bay whilee we figure out how to deal with them, or just assist your brother, he seems to know how to handle himself.

>>1031388
>I'm a noble lady! Why would I ever need to know how to fight?
Well, nobles tend to get kidnapped because their families have a lot of money to pay ransoms. Or nobles get killed in order to prevent them from influencing politics in a certain direction.

Knowing how to fight will help prevent you from being kidnapped and/or killed. And if you can't fight directly, then make sure you provide support to whoever can fight.

>>1031389
Did something land on the roof?

Ask Alto if he's got a weapon? Because I've got a really bad feeling about this.

You are on a wagon, moving. Something landed on top of it. Stands to reason that this something fell or jumped from above. Or flew and landed. It also stands to reason that a strong gust of wind might blow it off again.

So if you peek your head out the side and find out it's bad... blow it off again!

>>1031398
We don't know for certain whether something has landed atop the carriage. But, certainly, that slam can't be good news, and the coachman is probably in trouble. It would be best for Maya to follow her brother's lead -- she's wearing practically nothing and has no combat experience, he's armoured and seems trained. Do our Du Bois siblings have armament with them in the interior, anything useful in the trunk compartments under the seats?

Maybe you just got a flat and need to replace the wheel. But it's probably bandits, lets go stomp them... let your brother and bodyguards stomp them while you miraculously cover their backs with magic in a rare moment or two.

You'll be fine, just be paranoid and think you won't be fine, and you'll be fine!

Why does this feel so familiar-

Oh no.

Maya, listen to me very carefully. Push your brother onto the seat cushions of the carriage, then do the same. Wait a few minutes for the spears to run through the carriage doors, or command your brother to get on the floor and into ambush position, if he knows any military tactics whatsoever.

We watched the Varkian queen die this way, we're not going to just let history repeat itself.

>can't stop thinking about how hot my brother is...
...There is a joke to be made here about nobles and their siblings, but this is neither the time, nor are they your thoughts. Doesn't exclude you from being crazy though.

Quietly tell your brother to whisper, put his helmet on (if he has one), and arm himself. And make sure to stay away from the windows. Any specific spells you know?

Runey Boi 2022/05/06(Fri)14:47 No. 1031418 ID: db4755
File 165187365097.png - (516.63KB , 1020x760 , 20.png )

>In case someone tries to kidnap you for ransom money! Nobles get kidnapped for money!

That's what GUARDS are for! And I'm so lovable! No way anybody would want to kidnap me!

>You must know some vague magic. Flight? Speed boost? Wind blade?
>OK, what specifically can you do with it? What are the limitations?

I can create a gust of wind! A decently strong one! All that other stuff is way too precise for me!

>Ok here is the plan. You see a bad guy, you blast the living hell out of him, like, send him flying.

I'll try!

Runey Boi 2022/05/06(Fri)14:47 No. 1031419 ID: db4755
File 165187366619.png - (395.31KB , 1020x760 , 21.png )

>Look outside.

Alto's beat me to it! He glances outside the cabin window.

Alto: "Guard! What's going on! What hit us?"

Guard: "Lord Du Bois! Stay inside! I don't know what the-"

Guard: "YEEEAAAARRRGH!"

*NEEEIIIIGHHHH*

Alto: "What in the name of..."

>just assist your brother, he seems to know how to handle himself.

Alright! Got it! I'll just follow Alto's lead on this!

Runey Boi 2022/05/06(Fri)14:48 No. 1031420 ID: db4755
File 165187368391.png - (489.22KB , 1020x760 , 22.png )

Alto: "Sister! Stay inside! I have to go save the guard!"

Maya: "Doesn't that seem kind of backwards?!"

Alto: "I can't just leave him! Stay here!"

With that, Alto disappears into the distance, leaving me by myself.

Well I mean, you guys are here too I guess.

>When I hear you, it's almost like they're my own thoughts and desires.
So when we say that...
you should lick your nose
...you'll do it (unless it's too unreasonable of a suggestion)?

Other than that, you should look around if it's safe, and if it is, go follow your brother.

Let's stay put for now, kep your eye outside and your back on the carriage. And remember, if anything comes that isn't your brother, you send it flaying!

Not that following your brother is the safe, or sane thing to do, but is the carriage really all the defensible? (If it is, for some reason, don't leave)

If there is anything in there that you could use as a shield, or a weapon, take it with you. In all likelihood, what they're fighting may be a distraction, in which case staying isn't great, and it'll also be the first place the victors look for you.

Okay, this is obviously a distraction. Don't chase after your brother, but don't just stay in the unguarded, gaudy bullseye. Find someplace obscure to hide, and make sure you mislead your tracks!

Seems like something absconded with your guard and horse. Or the horse tore free and yanked the guard with it, for whatever reason.

Granted, your brother drawing blade suggests the former. Mayhaps you should follow him still and see if a well-placed gust of wind could help matters? Who knows, maybe your lovely charm CAN be of help.

The alternative is staying here, with no company at all. Well. You'll have us. If you do stay, perhaps you can rummage the luggage to see if there's aught you can find to help defend yourself with? Or prepare for a trek on foot by collecting supplies and a pack for them, shoes that are not high of heel. Worst case scenario, your brother returns without guard or horse - or does not return at all.

Surely you've taken other things along with you on this trip. Check for a spare weapon, shield, armour, anything to help you in a dangerous situation. Even just a dagger and a gambeson would be better than nothing.

Also, isn't this all very strange? What bandits would just abscond with your guard? ...And the horse? And is that a gash above the coachman's perch? Your dear brother is running off to get himself killed by something horrible.

>>1031426
>Or the horse tore free and yanked the guard with it, for whatever reason.
It shouldn't be possible for the horse to tear itself free by any means, unless the fabricators of this carriage were complete incompetents or someone sabotaged the fittings. Or something plucked the horse and guard free, like field rabbits preyed upon by hound or falcon. I suppose we can figure out pretty easily whether it got free and ran off by looking at the state of the harness and axles and checking for hoofprints ahead in the earth, but that sounds like a dangerous misuse of time. It really looks like something clawed a great bloody gouge in the wood behind where the guard had been sitting.

>>1031420
The risky thing about staying here is that you’re a sitting target. All someone has to do is find a way to lock you in the carriage, then they can just roll you away.

well you can't fight... and it looks like someone stole your horse. I guess put the brakes on the wagon if you can so nobody tries to steal the thing with you in it and then lock the door and hope the bad people stay away since you are unable to defend yourself.

>>1031420
Your brother isn't an idiot (hopefully). He won't leave you unless he thinks you will be fine. He should be back soon. Just stay in the cart. Check the luggage for a gambeson or something though, as others suggested.

Try and see if there are any hand fans around in the carriage and use them with your wind powers!

>>1031420
This seems very much like a distraction to leave you defenseless. Go after your brother! Safety in numbers!

>>1031420
I think you're the target. They tactfully rid the carriage of all threats, knowing the likely profile of your brother. These are professionals. Hired, probably. Or we're overestimating them and they got lucky.

Blast anything that opens your door without identifying themselves. You know, in case we're dealing with someone lucky.

If they have a plan and are well informed, they've already won.

Runey Boi 2022/05/07(Sat)09:08 No. 1031494 ID: db4755
File 165193968440.png - (392.56KB , 1020x760 , 23.png )

>So when we say that... you should lick your nose
>You'll do it? unless it's too unreasonable?

*Mlem*

I guess so! It's sort of like... I WANT to lick my nose! Like you had nothing to do with it!

>What bandits would just abscond with your guard? ...And the horse? And is that a gash above the coachman's perch? Your dear brother is running off to get himself killed by something horrible.

What?! No way! Alto can't die! He can't!

Runey Boi 2022/05/07(Sat)09:08 No. 1031495 ID: db4755
File 165193969722.png - (327.75KB , 1020x760 , 24.png )

>Search cart for equipment!

I search the cart. Alto took his sword, so that's gone... Under the seats I find a satchel, a dagger, some fancy teas... and two books titled; 'Standing the heat. A flame elemental guidebook', and 'Romance Factory; Kin and Human' The flame one probably belongs to Alto but the other... I'm not sure.

Runey Boi 2022/05/07(Sat)09:08 No. 1031496 ID: db4755
File 165193971199.png - (415.61KB , 1020x760 , 25.png )

>Mayhaps you should follow him still and see if a well-placed gust of wind could help matters?
>The risky thing about staying here is that you’re a sitting target.
>Go after your brother! Safety in numbers!

I pack everything into the satchel, and take off after Alto! I'm coming, brother!

Runey Boi 2022/05/07(Sat)09:08 No. 1031497 ID: db4755
File 165193972416.png - (256.10KB , 1020x760 , 26.png )

I come to a crossroad. I'm not sure which way brother went from here! Night has fallen and the dark consumes my eyesight!

Option 1: In one direction, I can see some wooden walls and buildings! There are lights on in some windows!

Option 2: There's a large cavern near the trail. It's so dark, I can't see into it!

Option 3: There's a small light in the distance, it seems to be a fire.

>two books titled; 'Standing the heat. A flame elemental guidebook', and 'Romance Factory; Kin and Human' The flame one probably belongs to Alto but the other... I'm not sure.

Suuuuuure your not sure...

But you gotta admit, humans are pretty hot, what with their fleshy bodies not covered by hair or fur that is quite exotic and unique to feel for a kin like yourself... yeah?

*ahem*

Does the flame book have spells for starting a small fire, even if your a wind elemental? We might be able to light the way if we can start a fire and head in the cavern, bandits might be hiding inside

Otherwise, maybe the campsite. Odd that there is one so close to a village. Sneak there to see what that is about.

>mlem
c-cute...

>crossroads
Check out the cavern first. Don't need to go far in, because if anyone was in there, you'd probably hear the echoes. What's more important is that, if runes happened to exist in there, it's possible you or us would feel it. Or at least I think there should be a way to detect their proximity if we are to recover them in your lifetime.

>inventory
A romance book... interesting. Don't worry, we ain't judging your preference. In fact, we could help you in this department hehe.
The Flame Guidebook, you think you could muster a fire spell with this book?

Go to the village and ask the people there if they had seen anything suspicious going on. They could have seen where your brother had went.

>>1031494
>mlem
We... we didn't have anything to do with it.
That was all you.

Anyway, we are kinda boned now, since we don't have any light and can barely see. Try to make your way down the road in the direction of the fire.

>>1031497
The clever thing to do is to head to one of the fires and procure light for exploring the cave your brother no doubt recklessly plunged into. The village is more likely to have a torch or lantern to borrow, possibly aid to garner as well. The small fire... one has to wonder why whoever is camping there is not doing so within the village. It's a strange little oddity.

Pick one to approach, then maybe you could question the locals for what plagues the area and kidnaps innocent guards and horses?

I would certainly not advice diving into the dark, dank cave without some source of light. It would be reckless in the extreme. Brave, but foolhardy! Though if it's on the way, perhaps you can approach the mouth of the cave and listen in to hear if aught is going on inside? Echoes and such may give a clue if something has moved within.

is that the village you were heading towards earlier or do you not know?

>>1031495
>Romance book
Ehh, humans are alright, but I don’t think they’d be great to date. Most of them are greedy and only care about money.

>>1031500
>>1031501
>book belongs to Maya
Nah, I think it was the guard’s book.

>>1031504
This.

>>1031510
They're pretty amazing if you want a quick fling.

Get help from the settlement. They don't have a gate, so the odds of them being bandits is low.

>>1031494
>It's sort of like...I WANT to lick my nose! Like you had nothing to do with it!
Like how right now, you want to grab you boobs and adjust them because your bra is uncomfortable?

>>1031497
>go where
Let's try the cave.

That gash in the carriage couldn't have been a bandit, so the cave where a creature could possibly live seems to be the logical choice when following your brother.

Runey Boi 2022/05/07(Sat)17:57 No. 1031532 ID: db4755
File 165197143532.png - (265.95KB , 1020x760 , 27.png )

>Suuuuuure your not sure...
>Don't worry, we ain't judging your preference.

It's not mine! I swear!

>Nah, I think it was the guard’s book.

Yeah! It's probably his!

>you gotta admit, humans are pretty hot
>In fact, we could help you in this department hehe
>They're pretty amazing if you want a quick fling.

I DON'T HAVE A HUMAN FETISH! ...I THINK!

>Like how right now, you want to grab you boobs and adjust them because your bra is uncomfortable?

My bra isn't uncomfortable! I'd have to be WEARING a bra for it to be uncomfortable!

Runey Boi 2022/05/07(Sat)17:57 No. 1031533 ID: db4755
File 165197144941.png - (405.89KB , 1020x760 , 28.png )

>Does the flame book have spells for starting a small fire, even if your a wind elemental?
>The Flame Guidebook, you think you could muster a fire spell with this book?

I've never been any good at elemental magic other than wind but... Oh! I did it! It worked! It just... Worked! Something about it just... soaked into me! I wonder if it's something to do with this champion business! [Elemental mastery increased! Flame! Can now create small flames in hand, like a torch! They cannot be thrown.]

>Is there a way to detect the runes

I dunno! Isn't that your job? Maybe somebody who knew a bit more about magic could help.

Runey Boi 2022/05/07(Sat)17:57 No. 1031534 ID: db4755
File 165197146553.png - (342.63KB , 1020x760 , 29.png )

>Check the cavern out.
>Try to listen for sound, and/or light it up without going inside
>Let's try the cave.

I approach the cavern and light up the inside. It's deeper than it looked, and the light doesn't pierce far enough into it. I hear nothing. It's eerily quiet...

Runey Boi 2022/05/07(Sat)17:58 No. 1031535 ID: db4755
File 165197148213.png - (466.94KB , 1020x760 , 30.png )

>Approach the village and question residents and/or seek out help!

I enter the village, noting it's lack of any sort of gate. What sort of fools would live in a place like this without a strong gate affixed to- Oh that's our flag it's our village. Of course. I believe this is the intended destination of our journey! Nobody's here to greet me. Rude.

What should I do?

A; Head for the tavern.
B; Head for the Blacksmith
C; Head back to the cavern or campfire.
D; Custom suggestion

Strange village. Seems like all the guards are busy with something. Since we're here, the tavern would be the best place to visit to report that your caravan was attacked and to ask what's going on.
>A; Head for the tavern.

>>1031537
I agree, you usually can find "interesting people" in taverns.

so who where you suppose to talk to here anyways? Maybe you should try and find them and let them know that you were attacked.

You're a noble. Bust open the inn and hire adventurers to aid your cause.

>>1031532
>My bra isn't uncomfortable! I'd have to be WEARING a bra for it to be uncomfortable!
……sooo, uh, why aren’t you wearing one? Was it too small for you?

>>1031535
>Nobody's here to greet me. Rude.
That’s because you’re early. They didn’t expect you to be here so soon.

Or maybe everyone has been captured by a big group of bandits? Which might explain the suspicious lack of guards patrolling around.

>What do?
D; Custom suggestion
Put out your flames and sneak over to the windows to look inside the buildings. Check and make sure you see friendly villagers and not a group of bandits that have aggressively taken over the village.

>>1031552
this. Look before you leap. It is odd there are no patrols out right now.

>>1031535
>>1031552 +1

>>1031532
>I DON'T HAVE A HUMAN FETISH! ...I THINK!
I believe you. Humans are boring anyways, there's nothing interesting about them.

>>1031552
I agree with this.

It seems too quiet around here. Those flags could be there to trick you into lowering your guard!

>>1031552
This

Can you see if there is a sing with the name of the village? Maybe this is were you needed to be to begin with. The inn might be a good place to ask for help. Remember to be polite, people might not like pompous nobles.
But it is wierd that there isn't any guards arownd...

Maybe true underwire shaped bras are a relatively new invention, and you haven't gotten access to an appropriately trained artisan who can properly measure and fabricate a properly formed modern underwire bra for you yet?

A)

Make sure your brother hasn't come yet and ask for reinforcement.

Whatever caught your guard and horse was fast and strong. No normal humanoid should be able to do that, so it was most probably a beast. Maybe do a quick visit to the armory to buy a spear if you have money on you and go to the cave (try to pick some sticks to make torches, that way you will not depend of magic to see).

Runey Boi 2022/05/08(Sun)21:42 No. 1031628 ID: db4755
File 165207137075.png - (356.44KB , 1020x760 , 31.png )

>Why aren't you wearing a bra?

I feel like there are more important things going on right now!

>Head for the tavern!

I DO like taverns hehe! I'll just go in and-

>This seems suspicious! Look inside the buildings for bandits!

Oh fffiine! I put out my flame and creep up to the window of the tavern.

Runey Boi 2022/05/08(Sun)21:43 No. 1031629 ID: db4755
File 165207139564.png - (450.64KB , 1020x760 , 32.png )

I peer inside the tavern window. Inside, I see an inkeeper behind the bar, and three patrons. One man, who wears armor. He appears to be passed out. Another seems to be rather ordinary, nothing remarkable about him. The third wears a long cloak, and I can't make out many details from here... They seem like ordinary villagers for the most part! What should I say to them? Should I head inside?

Recite your line twice, then use your knees in a circular motion to pounce on the door as you punch it with both hands. This will give you the leverage to burst through in an epic fashion.

Here's your script:
"I AM DUCHESS DU BOIS AND I WILL PAY FAT STACKS OF MOOLAH TO ANYONE WHO RESCUES HALF MY GUARDSMEN AND MY BROTHER FROM A NEST OF GRIFFINS!!!"

I really am tempted to say kick the door open to assert yourself...

>>1031629
Okay wait no, do NOT kick open the door, that's stupid.

Walk in, straight back, be sincere but not overbearing. Actually, no, just be friendly and mention that you're looking for your brother and that we might've been waylaid by bandits. No need to spill everything, but you DO need help.

>>1031629
Is there another person looking in through that other window by the door or is that supposed to be Maya? It’s hard to tell from this angle.

Just walk in like a normal person and not a crazy one. Go up to the bar keep and ask him if anyone from out of town passed by recently and ask if they’ve seen your brother or your guard (give a general description so they have an idea who you’re talking about) If asked what brings you through here tell them the reason you came to the village in the first place (as in the diplomatic reason your dad sent you here for) and that you were attacked on the way here and separated from your brother and driver. Though if you think the people here are the same people who attacked you maybe keep that last bit to yourself.

Walk in, ask where all the guards are, then explain your situation.

It’s best not to cause any unwanted attention to yourself. I say ask the bartender for any information about what’s been happening in the town.

Runey Boi 2022/05/09(Mon)08:46 No. 1031638 ID: db4755
File 165211116719.png - (326.54KB , 1020x760 , 33.png )

>BUST THROUGH DOOR TO ASSERT DOMINANCE

Heck yeah! That sounds awesome! I rear back, and get ready to slam through the door! I rush forward and...

>Actually don't do that.

...Walk inside peacefully, my back straight and my head held high. I approach the bar, and am stared at by the keeper and the conscious patrons.

>Be friendly and mention you're looking for your brother
>Ask if anyone from out of town passed by recently.
>Where are the guards?

Maya: "Good evening, gentlemen. My name is Maya Du Bois, daughter of Duke Corson Du Bois. I've come to your village on an earlier arranged mission, but I've become separated from my brother and guard on the way here. I was wondering if anyone had passed through recently that had large powerful eyebrows and a noble sense to them. I'd also like to ask where the guards are, as I must admit I was expecting a bit of a welcome after my long journey from Falen."

Runey Boi 2022/05/09(Mon)08:46 No. 1031639 ID: db4755
File 165211118403.png - (347.19KB , 1020x760 , 34.png )

The Inkeeper speaks up first.

Inkeeper: "What do ya mean? Bart there is a guard! He's right here!" He says innocently, gesturing the the passed out drunk wearing armor. This couldn't be all the guards town has available...

Inkeeper: "I ain't seen no strong eyebrow'd feller anytime today though! And I ain't heard of no mission neither! I've been in here all day though." He doesn't seem to know about my brother, or my mission. Though I wonder if the common villager WOULD know about my mission or my arrival.

Hooded Man; "Large eyebrows you say? Yes, I saw the man you speak of. Awhile ago before coming inside. I know where he went, as well." The hooded man at the end of the bar speaks up. He says he saw Alto!

A; Try to wake the guard and question him.
B; Question the Innkeeper on who WOULD know about my mission.
C; Follow the Hooded Man to Alto!
D; Other, custom input.

B
D- ASK the hooded man about Alto.

May be stereotyping here but following a shifty hooded figure you just met that just happens to know where your brother is after you were (probably) attacked just seems like a bad idea. Better question the guy first to make sure he actual HAS seen you're brother before even considering following him anywhere. Also talk to the barkeep before you go to get a general idea of what this town has to offer and who the people worth noting are. That way if all else fails you can get into contact with the town's leader and see if you can't shack up with them until everyone can figure out what to do next or your brother shows up.

C) Be a good and naive noble girl and follow the hooded man. Oh, he's willing to escort you for free? This man knows how to properly serve nobility.

B/D

not that I dont trust mr shifty man, but let's ask him to describe other details about your brother to confirm if they saw him, you're a noble so you have to have some GUILE right, know how to schmooze and milk the information out of the more savvy types? Right? Please.

Don't trust the human, its race is an ignoble sort prone to back-alley stabbings, smug faces, and nonconsensual petting. Their ears are obnoxiously tiny and round, too.

>>1031640
This

I'm goign to go with B.

Whoa hey this innkeeper is pretty cute. And that human is pretty cute. And so's the other guy we saw sitting down at the bar too. Idk about the drunk guard but maybe it's four for four. Is everyone good-looking to you? Help us out here Maya it's not easy being a disembodied voice in your head.

D) Don't be fooled by the atractive human! If Alto didn't return for you, he will likely is still going after the danger that stole your guard and horse or recruiting people.

Ask other things like the color of his clothes and where did he saw him. Check his reactions.

Runey Boi 2022/05/09(Mon)13:30 No. 1031686 ID: db4755
File 165212825465.png - (250.56KB , 1020x760 , 35.png )

>That barkeep is cute! That human is cute! Everyone is cute! Who is cute to you?

What? I mean, I dunno. I guess they're pretty cute. I've never really seriously considered a human before... It's kind of taboo, doncha think?

>Question the barkeep! What does the village offer! Who is important?

Inkeeper: "Well... We're pretty small, not bein' in the mainland and all. We got some good shops... Good smithy, good general store... And here of course! This place is my favorite! We're a mining town, so most of the folks round here just go to and from the mines." It seems the town hosts a smithy, a general store for basic purchases, and this tavern. The rest of the buildings must be homes for the miners.

Inkeeper: "As for who is important... S'pose the head of the guard is an important fella... And the chief is our leader so he is too... I like to think we're all important in our own way though!" What a nice thought!

Runey Boi 2022/05/09(Mon)13:31 No. 1031687 ID: db4755
File 165212827384.png - (296.43KB , 1020x760 , 36.png )

>Be a good and naive noble girl and follow the hooded man. Oh, he's willing to escort you for free? This man knows how to properly serve nobility.

Wow! Good point! About time I got some respect! I-

>Question the hooded man about brother before following him.
>shifty hooded figure
>you're a noble so you have to have some GUILE right, know how to schmooze and milk the information out of the more savvy types? Right? Please.

Uhm. Yeah, good point. I've got TONS of guile! They call me 'Guile Maya' at home! And definitely not anything else!

Maya: "You said you saw my brother? What was he doing, pray tell? And could you describe his appearance to me a bit?"

Hooded Man: "Well he was looking for you, of course! He left town after, but I saw which way he went. And his appearance? A kin like yourself, obviously. Was wearin' some fancy stuff too! And those eyebrows... Those were some massive things! My name's Tarl, by the way. It's a pleasure to meet you, Lady Du Bois!"

Hmm... I think that sounds like Alto... What do you guys think?

A; Head out with Tarl the hooded man.
B; Check out smithy
C; Check out General store
D; Custom input

>>1031687
Vague statements, repeated your own description of Alto back at you, said Alto said he was looking for you when he'd told you to stay with the cart - meaning he'd have gone back the cart, and then somehow skipped you on the way over to the village...

You've got a scoundrel on your hands! Probably lookin' to lure you off somewhere and rob 1x defenseless noble lady of her worldly goods! You could verify it by trapping him with a savvy question like; "Fancy stuff? You mean like that cap with the feather in it which he always wears?"

D; If Tarl answers in the affirmative, smile, nod happily, grab one of the mugs from the counter and smack it over Tarl's head. Then shake the guard awake and demand he do his dang job and apprehend this forked-tongue human - or get the bartender and the other patron to help you doing so.

Since he just lied to you, with the intent of dragging you off somewhere to goodness knows what end. Your brother would not be caught dead wearing such a frivolous piece of garment.

There's no way your brother would be able to return to the carriage to notice that you're gone, and then get to this village before you, all while missing your illumination on the way. So this guy saying that your brother came here looking for you... is a lie.

Since he lied, he probably did it for a reason. A pretty obvious reason. Either to rob you or to kidnap you. So no matter where you go next, this guy will likely be after you so there's a certain amount of caution you'll need to take heh. What to do...

D) Try to wake up the guard. If that fails, try to convince the other Kin to escort you to the head of the guards. If that fails, then light a fire in your hand and call Tarl out on his lie and threaten to burn him up.

>>1031691
I like the idea of trying to catch him in a lie, just for shits and giggles.

As for what to do next, we should speak with someone in charge. Where is the chief?

>>1031687
That doesn't sound like Alto. Alto left us at the carriage, and was also not wearing a bunch of fancy stuff at the time.
>>1031691
Do this

>>1031687
>And definitely not anything else!
Would that other name happen to be related to what happened at the Sumpter Festival?

>Hmm...I think that sounds like Alto... What do you guys think?
No, that’s not your brother he’s talking about.

>>1031691
>trap him in a lie
Yeah, we can do that.

Although, don’t think we should smack him over the head with a mug, since Maya would probably get in trouble for assaulting Tarl.

if your brother really came through town then he's likely to come through again eventually and going to look for him would most likely mean you'd pass each other without even knowing it. It would probably be best for you to stay in the town while you wait for your brother to eventually stumble in. I mean it's the closest settlement around he'd be bound to come here eventually even if only to resupply.

Runey Boi 2022/05/09(Mon)20:21 No. 1031733 ID: db4755
File 165215288517.png - (301.18KB , 1020x760 , 37.png )

>Would that other name happen to be related to what happened at the Sumpter Festival?

No! W-Why would you think that? Haha no way! Don't be silly!

>You've got a scoundrel on your hands! Probably lookin' to lure you off somewhere and rob 1x defenseless noble lady of her worldly goods!
>...this guy saying that your brother came here looking for you... is a lie.
>That doesn't sound like Alto. Alto left us at the carriage, and was also not wearing a bunch of fancy stuff at the time.

Hey that's true! Alto DID tell me to stay in the carriage! This fellow might be lying to me!

>Trap him in a lie!

Maya: "Fancy stuff? You mean like that cap with the feather in it which he always wears??"

Tarl: "That's right! He DID have a hat like that! Quite a fancy chap indeed!"

This fellow IS lying to me! What an... ASS!

>If Tarl answers in the affirmative, smile, nod happily, grab one of the mugs from the counter and smack it over Tarl's head.

I AM pretty mad that he lied to me! I wouldn't usually get violent, but if you guys think it's a good idea... I smile and grab a nearby glass...

Runey Boi 2022/05/09(Mon)20:21 No. 1031734 ID: db4755
File 165215289950.png - (343.22KB , 1020x760 , 38.png )

>Although, don’t think we should smack him over the head with a mug, since Maya would probably get in trouble for assaulting Tarl.

...And take a drink! You might be right! Nobody but me knows he's lying after all! And what if there's some OTHER big eyebrowed fellow in a nice fancy hat around here! Wouldn't that be silly! Plus... hitting someone with a glass sounds like it would really hurt!

Runey Boi 2022/05/09(Mon)20:22 No. 1031735 ID: db4755
File 165215292027.png - (226.79KB , 1020x760 , 39.png )

>Try to wake up the guard

I slap the guard's back a few times. Maybe he can help me out of this!

Maya: "Excuse me! Excuse me, um..."

Inkeeper: "Bart."

Maya: "Excuse me, Bart! Wake up, please!"

Bart: "Nngh.. Whussat? What's goin' on? Captain Miles, I swears I was just... Thinkin'!"

He's sloshed, but awake. What now? I could try to explain the Tarl situation to the guard. Or should I do something else?

>>1031735
This guard is so sloshed I don't know if he'd be any help. Ask him if there's been any trouble around the village recently. This is mostly to avoid rousing Tarl's suspicion.

Next, try flirting with the barkeep, the idea being to lean in to whisper in his ear. Look like you're saying something naughty, while in actuality you whisper Tarl's lying and up to no good.

Tell guard your wagon was attacked and you were separated from your group and you were wondering who you’d need to talk to too report it.

Also tell hood guy you’re thankful for his “help” but you’re probably going to wait in town for him to return so you don’t risk passing him or something silly like then when he eventually returns to town.

>>1031735
How do you floss and keep your teeth clean lady?

Maya is a noble. A charming one, at that. She could totally get away with bonking some guy over the head to stun him so he couldn't run away, then telling her literal subjects to apprehend him on grounds of him being a bald-faced liar. But if she doesn't want to hurt people, I guess that's that! It's true that violence isn't -always- needed. More guile could do! She could get Tarl in front of this guard captain THEN accuse him of being a liar.

Tell Tarl you'll be with him in a bit, you just need to leave some messages with the local authorities before you go - if they're around! Ask Bart where his captain is - or failing that, the Mayor. Toss the bartender a coin for the brew you just appropriated (or tell him to put it on your tab).

Tell him the situation and ask if there are more guards ready. Mention the unwatched door, this smells weird.

I wouldn't immediately tell Bart who you are. But even if you do, he might be skeptical of you being a noble. Is there any way you can actually prove that you are one? How does one normally identify a noble?

Ask Bart where did Captain Miles go and what's Bart's duty supposed to be. If this isn't some grand conspiracy and you can prove that you're a noble, then you should be able to request that Bart escorts you to his superiors at least. If he refuses, then explain the Tarl situation.

Is Bart a rat-boy?
I feel like he should be a rat-boy.

Anyway, We need to get Bart to take us to the Captain and the Village Chief so we can rally a search and rescue party.

Runey Boi 2022/05/10(Tue)09:49 No. 1031788 ID: db4755
File 165220138356.png - (265.93KB , 1020x760 , 40.png )

>Maya is a noble. A charming one, at that. She could totally get away with bonking some guy over the head to stun him so he couldn't run away, then telling her literal subjects to apprehend him on grounds of him being a bald-faced liar.

I suppose that's true, but hitting strangers isn't something I often do!

>But if she doesn't want to hurt people, I guess that's that! It's true that violence isn't -always- needed. More guile could do!

Yes! Violence isn't the answer! ...Not all the time, at least!

>Toss the bartender a coin for the brew you just appropriated (or tell him to put it on your tab).

Uh, it was kind of... just sitting there. Yuck... I think it was Bart's. He doesn't seem to mind.

Runey Boi 2022/05/10(Tue)09:49 No. 1031789 ID: db4755
File 165220139674.png - (312.98KB , 1020x760 , 41.png )

>Is there any way you can actually prove that you are one? How does one normally identify a noble?

Why of course there is! Each noble house bears a crest which properly identifies them! I'm wearing three of house Du Bois' crests right now! Didn't you notice?

Runey Boi 2022/05/10(Tue)09:50 No. 1031790 ID: db4755
File 165220142670.png - (259.60KB , 1020x760 , 42.png )

>Ask guard about trouble in the village
>Ask guard where the other guards are
>Ask guard where guard captain is

I ask the guard a string of questions. He seems overwhelmed, and still quite drunk. This man doesn't seem very good at his job.

Maya: "Bart, could you tell me about any recent troubles in the village?"

Bart: "Uhh... Trouble? Well we've been havin' trouble with the giants helpin' with the mines lately. Somethin' 'bout it bein' too dangerous. Buncha whiners!...Oh! There's also sposedly been some bandit attacks on traders between us and Uwasha. I haven't seen any though!"

Maya: "Where are all the other guards? And your captain?"

Bart: "The captain? Well... Today we're all supposed to go on some important mission with him. Sometime in the evening I think."

Inkeeper: "Bart, it's past sundown!"

Bart: "It... is? Uh oh."

Hmm... It seems the guards are absent due to some unknown mission of great import they're on. Must have been quite sudden, for them to not be here to welcome me! It seems Bart just... slept through it. At least he seems to be sobering up a bit.

A: Have Bart escort Maya to where their important mission was meant to meet up
B: Report Tarl's misdeeds to Bart
C: Custom input

>>1031790
A: Have Bart escort Maya to where their important mission was meant to meet up
C: boop him on the nose!

>>1031791
Yes! Boop nose need to happen. Apply finger bean to nose. Wait, do you even have finger beans?

but also A

>>1031793
+1 this is important. Do you have finger and toe beans?

Poor Bart must be a lightweight. Or have a huge tab.

You should report Tarl's misdeeds and block his escape route. I want to see where this leads - who IS this guy and why was his first instinct to lead you off somewhere else?

If he fiercely resists arrest or comes for you, you can bowl him over with a gust of wind.

Punch Tarl in the face, THEN report him for lying.

Then ask for anyone else who might help you find your brother.

It doesn't seem prudent to be wasting much time on Tarl right now, even if he's a fraudulent rogue with malicious intentions. Maya's priority needs to be her dear brother and ally, their mission, and our quest for the runes; every moment that goes by could be one which brings Alto closer to a terrible demise. On the other hand, Tarl could have a connection to the bandits Bart mentioned, and that might be related in turn to the carriage incident and whatever's happened to Alto. Hopefully it *is* just bandits and not something more horrible, as they would at least probably hold him captive and alive for ransom. Maya should detain Tarl: Lure him in closer, knock him across the head with that stein and pin him down, question him and corroborate with Bart as to his identity and any knowledge of the bandits, and lock him up. It is not terribly legal or moral to do this to a man -- even a shabby, contemptible human man, far below your station -- just for lying, but these circumstances call for drastic action.

Then you can ask Bart for more information on his captain and unit, and from there set out to join and rally the guardsmen under your rightful command to find Alto.

The unknown mission and your carriage getting assaulted, the timing of the two doesn't seem to be a coincidence. And the way your carriage was assaulted does imply a single strong attacker, so it's likely that the giants are involved as well.

I think it's unlikely that you'd be able to hit a rogue with a mug, let alone knock him out. And telling Bart about Tarl wouldn't be great either since a drunk guard would have difficulty stopping him from running away. Best you can do is try to keep Tarl here for the time being.

A) Thank Tarl for assisting you and tell him to wait here if he wants to get "rewarded" once you come back. Then get Bart's escort.

>>1031789
No, actually.
For future reference, we're good at reaction time and careful analysis, but we're really nearsighted. It's just how we see things in most worlds, so don't expect us to see anything smaller than a cat unless it's very close to your face.

>Somethin' 'bout it bein' too dangerous. Buncha whiners!
What. A. Brat.
Planning and outsmarting threats to the lummox workers is his job. What, you thought all that exploitable labor wouldn't come with a drawback? Ingrates...

>Bandit Attacks
Ha, up to speed! We love kicking bandit ass! Maybe too much.

B - Tarl is clearly up to something sleazy. Possibly a date rape with an opposite gender noble to... you know. In any case, his behavior is not acceptable in most standard worlds, so you should probably use your authority to have him punished for trying to sexually exploit others.

A - After that's done, order Bart to escort you around. You have to keep your brother alive.
And possibly get the first MacGuffin which will empower your magics and stuff. These standard plots are so stale...

I say we ignore Bart and just go with A. That mission might be related to yours, and besides, you need help. Maybe if you help them, they'll help you.

Runey Boi 2022/05/10(Tue)16:53 No. 1031836 ID: db4755
File 165222678668.png - (279.74KB , 1020x760 , 43.png )

>Boop Bart's snoot

*Boop*

Bart: "Wh-What?"

That was satisfying! Is MY nose that boopable?

>Very important. Do you have toe beans?

What... What are toe beans? Is that a growth?? I'll have you know my fingers and toes are doing just fine!

Runey Boi 2022/05/10(Tue)16:53 No. 1031837 ID: db4755
File 165222680357.png - (581.69KB , 1020x1520 , 44.png )

>Report Tarl!!

Maya: "Bart, that man in the hood there was lying to me about having seen my elder brother Alto! He meant to lead me away to do who knows what with me!"

Bart: "What? Izzat true, you miscreant?? You meant to do something sour to this fair lady, did you?!"

Tarl stands up, waving his hands dismissively.

Tarl: "Woah, woah! Let's not jump to conclusions here! I told no such lie! I haven't a clue what the maiden is talking about! I simply told her I had seen a fellow who I believe was her brother! That's all!"

Maya: "That's not true! I caught him in a brazen lie! He confirmed that my brother was wearing a fancy hat! But my brother WASN'T in fact wearing any such fancy headwear! He HATES hats!"

=====

Tarl: "I apologize for the confusion miss! Perhaps I simply saw a similar fellow! It's not like he introduced himself by name after all! However, such accusations WOUND me! I believe my business in this village is concluded. If we meet again, I hope you can show me a better person than you showed me today."

And with that, Tarl leaves out the door. I HATE that guy! My face is all hot! That stupid jerk! Bart just stands there, looking a bit confused.

Bart: "So... So it was just a misunderstanding then? Well that's good I suppose."

UGH!

Runey Boi 2022/05/10(Tue)16:53 No. 1031838 ID: db4755
File 165222682236.png - (909.54KB , 1020x1520 , 45.png )

>Have Bart escort Maya to the mission spot

I remind Bart of my noble status, and have him escort me to wherever this mission was supposed to take place. Maybe we'll find someone in charge there! Bart grumbles as we walk.

Bart: "...Damn.. Here I was havin' a nice day... Well... From what I remember it was nice. I'm not sure..."

=====

Bart: "Ohh where is everybody? I think the Captain's gonna be sore at me for this..."

After a bit of a walk, we arrive at the meeting spot. It's a small road, leading down into what appears to be a mining quarry. It seems their mission aligned with my own afterall! It's quite dark, but there are some torches lit down there. I can't see any people though.

>>1031836
>toe beans
Eugh, yeah. Regardless of whether they are cute or not, the term "toe beans" makes me throw up a bit in my mouth whenever I read it.

>>1031838
Well, the torches are still lit, so somebody has been here relatively recently.

Take the... tunnel which has the most and freshest footprints on the ground in front.

>>1031837
And that, m’lady, is why violence is sometimes the answer. That rogue was quick on the uptake and smooth-tongued enough to bail while he blathered excuses. Excuses that would hold no water if you pried at them - it beggars the imagination that he could have met another kin of noble bearing and getup with stern brows, a missing sister and a fancy cap... and here, of all places!

But done is done. No doubt he’ll slink back to whatever gang he belongs to, to inform of how poorly guarded the village is at present. Like as not he may have belonged to the brigands of the region. They must, after all, have eyes on the inside to know when merchants are coming and going.

As with the other cave, listen for hubbub and echoes at each entrance. Your best bet remains to find the local authorities. At least you have a kin of marginal use under your command now.

It would be cool to take the mine cart for a epic ride!

>>1031838
This is a mine and your brother said that both you and him were sent to help settle a trade negotiation between a village and the natives, who are demanding more money for the metals they're mining. I’m pretty sure this is the place where both of you are supposed to be.

Ask Bart if he knows how to get to where you need to be in the mine? Is there a way of finding out which tunnel we’re supposed to go in?

Runey Boi 2022/05/11(Wed)09:24 No. 1031880 ID: db4755
File 165228625779.png - (458.21KB , 1020x760 , 46.png )

>Torches are lit! Someone's been here recently

That's true! At least we know the mines are recently active!

>Violence is sometimes the answer.
>He's likely informing his gang the village is unguarded!

I guess you're right... If brother were here, I'm sure he would've handled it better than I...

>I'm pretty sure this is your intended destination!
>Ask Bart if he knows how to get where you need to be in the mine.

I think you're right! This does feel like the place, doesn't it! I ask Bart if he might know where I need to go.

Bart: "Uhh, I have no idea, your nobleness...! I was only told of my own mission, and we were meant to meet right here!"

Runey Boi 2022/05/11(Wed)09:24 No. 1031881 ID: db4755
File 165228628257.png - (1.32MB , 669x2280 , 47.png )

>Take the tunnel which has the freshest footprints on the ground
>Listen for hubbub and echoes at each entrance.
>Take the mine cart for an epic ride!

Bart and head down into the quarry and approach the mine entrances. There are three of them, all with lit torches. It's hard to tell which footprints are the freshest. I do think riding the minecart sounds like fun. I listen for noises at each entrance, before deciding which to head into...

A: This entrance has a barely flickering torch. It's quite dark! It has a ton of footprints. Barefooted ones! Heading inside it. Inside I can barely hear very distant speaking! I can't make out any words though.

B: This entrance is fully lit up inside. There's a minecart leading into it, and it's surrounded by some mining tools. There's several sets of footprints heading inside. There's no sound coming from inside. Only the wind, blowing through.

C: The final entrance is also fully lit up inside. However, it seems less used, as there are fewer footprints. The last set of footprints is unusually large! Inside, I can hear... Crying? I think I hear someone crying in there!

It is quite likely the guards went down the middle path - they'd be wearing boots.

The barefooted ones must be... natives of some sort? Local miners? Underground people? They've been there a while, from the looks of it. Maybe they had a meeting with the guards, and then sent the guards on to handle the dangers?

Which means going straight after the guards might be dangerous, too. Especially if they've been overcome somehow.

The big footsteps is clearly one of the giant natives who were among those scared by how dangerous it'd become and wanted more compensation.

C - Head over to the crying voice first and see what sort of story you can glean from them. They must be distressed for a reason!

Weirdly enough it does seem like the safest bet would be C.

A is sort of dangerous due to how possibly unlit the whole inside place is, B might be potentially dangerous too. However in C there isn't at least visibly a multitude and we could gather some info.

And if things get a little weird, we have Bart so we're good.

C it is.

>>1031881
C

Go to the 3rd tunnel. If someone is crying, then they might need help! But don’t go rushing in there all recklessly! Carefully go in there and peak around the corner to try and see what’s going on.

C

>>1031881
C

Maybe if you help whoever is there, that'll make it easier to do any negotiations later?

Runey Boi 2022/05/11(Wed)13:36 No. 1031892 ID: db4755
File 165230140498.png - (442.14KB , 1200x1050 , 48.png )

>C! Head into the tunnel and investigate! Perhaps you can help, and be helped in turn!

Alright! Bart and I creep into the third tunnel. The soft cries get louder and louder until we finally come to a more open area. Sure enough, a giant sits behind what appears to be some make-shift cover. He sobs away. He's safe, but quite upset!

Bart: "Oi! Giant! What happened here? Where is everyone! The rest of the guard should be here!"

Bart yells out to the giant, blowing our cover. It seems Bart's used to seeing these massive creatures!

Crying Giant: "Go away! I'm not comin' out! Not for Kin! Not for Humans! Not even for Horon! It's too scary, and I'm not comin' out! So go away!" He shoos us with his massive hand.

It seems something's upset the large fellow terribly! Poor thing. What can I say or do to calm him down?

Ask him about the scary. What scared him? Did it move?

Tell him that, ok, he can stay here forever then, and pretend to leave.

Well Maya, it's time to be diplomatic. One big problem for nobles is to be seen as unaprochable. That's good for some things, but when you want to get information is a dragout.

Try to be shooting and amable to the gigant and ask what is he afraid of. You are here to help! (and investigate where is your brother which is probably in the same place that the danger)

>>1031892
>Bart yells at the giant
Pretty brave of him to do, considering the giant could easily flatten him.

>what do?
Yelling at the giant won't help. Try being nice to him. Start with asking for his name, then asking what has him so scared.

>>1031892
Ask him what's so scary.

Runey Boi 2022/05/11(Wed)16:59 No. 1031923 ID: db4755
File 165231354644.png - (280.90KB , 800x603 , 49.png )

>Pretty brave of Bart to yell at the giant

Right? I've never met a giant before, but I guess he must deal with them a lot to be that up front with one!

>Tell him 'stay there forever then!' and pretend to leave

Oh, but that sounds so mean, I could never-

Bart: "FINE! Stay there forever then!" Bart begins to leave.

Giant: "No no! Wait! Please don't leave me by myself!"

Huh. I guess that worked after all!

>Ask about scary
>You're here to help!
>Ask for his name.

Maya: "It's alright! We're here to help you! My name is Maya Du Bois. What's yours?"

Giant: "Nn.. *sniff* Hegor. My name's Hegor."

Maya: "Can you tell me what happened, Hegor? What's got you so scared?"

Hegor: "I was.. I was moving metals out of the mine, like I'm s'posed to. When all of the sudden the Kin came and told me I wasn't supposed to be here today... Then, when I was going to leave, the Kin started yelling! They started getting pulled off, into the mines by something! There was so much screaming! I... I got scared. So I hid."

It seems the guards had something planned in the mines today that Hegor didn't know about. They were attacked by something, maybe what was causing the trouble to begin with?

A: Head into dark mine (mine A)

B: Head into minecart mine (mine B)

C: Speak to Hegor more (Please specify)

D: Custom input

C) Order Hegar to leave while the enemy forces are distracted. This may be the only chance he can get. Have him find large boulders and seal up the entrances you don't go into.

Tell him that you're not with those Kin and that you can escort him out if he wants. It should be safe for a while, considering you weren't attacked on your way here.

And then B.

Ask him if he has seen anyone else besides the king and ourselves. Surely he wasn't working alone. He must at least seen someone else.

C. Ask him if he knows about any dangerous cave monsters.

>>1031923
C

Ask him if he saw what was taking the Kin. Can he describe what it looked like? Which tunnel was it in?

>>1031949
King? He never mentioned meeting a king. Where did you get that?

Ask him if he saw your brother, maya. it wouldn't be surprising if alto ended up here after what happened at the carriage.

>1031927
This

I'm not sure if closing the entrance is a good idea. If there is a cave system under the town (those stalagmites are indicative this is a natural cave), then chances are there are more exits. If Hegar is here, then is posible more miners inside and we would be trapping them. But if there is a way for Hegar to confirm there is no one more, is a good idea. At least it would delay whatever is happening here if things go bad.

Tell Hegar to be brave, flee while he can and tell to the townsfolk what is happening and that if we don't return by morning (assuming is early-mid evening), then send someone to get help. If monsters and dangers exist, then there must be some kind of army or adventurers prepared to sort with this...

...erh .. Maya, don't worry for all the preparatives of "what if we all end dead", center in the problem. Something draged all those kin, that's what happened to your guard (and horse). We are probably in the right direction!

>>1031985
dont always mean there are more exits because its naturally formed

Runey Boi 2022/05/12(Thu)07:22 No. 1031990 ID: db4755
File 165236533862.png - (336.40KB , 800x603 , 50.png )

>Has he seen anyone else?
>Did he see your brother?
>Was anyone else in the mines?

Hegor: "No... Nobody has come here except you two! And the kin that yelled. They told me nobody was supposed to be here today. So I was the only one here before them."

It seems the only ones we know are in the tunnels are the guards. Hmm.

>Know about any cave monsters?
>What was taking the Kin? Which tunnel was it in?

Hegor: "All sorts of beasts live in the mountains! But I never caught a glimpse of this one... The kin just yelped, something catching them from the darkness, and dragging them back! It was in the middle tunnel. With the minecart!"

It sounds like the guards who went into the minecart tunnel were dragged away by some sort of scary beast! That's... Terrifying! How awful!

>Can escort him out! It's safe!

I tell Hegor it's safe outside, and he hesitantly decides to trust me. Now I must make a descision. Should I ask Hegor to seal up the other tunnels and then head back to the village with him? Or should I send him back for help alone, and head into another tunnel with Bart? And which one?

A: Have Hegor seal the tunnels, and head back to the village with him.

B: Send Hegor for help and head into tunnel A (The dark tunnel)

C: Send Hegor for help and head into tunnel B (The minecart tunnel)

D: Custom input

For what we know, your brother (or at least your guard) is likely with that being. Let's be honest. Do you want to risk leaving your brother with that monster? No shame in wanting to retreat.

If Maya is up for this mision I vote for B), maybe we can scout the tunnel. I don't think we can do more than a group of guards (for the footprints I think 3-4 guards), but at least we can try to know what are we facing off and prepare for an attack.

With any luck we will not need to fight but... how well did you said you knew how to fight? Magic or with a dagger...

I was worried at first that the giant asking for help would be weird but they seem to be used to them in this town. Hegor is faint-hearted so I don't think he'd be down to help out in a fight either.
We can't really head first into the thick of the minecart tunnel, so voting for B here.

If things look too dark inside we can just take an extra torch from one of the entrance of the tunnels or outright the lone one at the entrance of the dark tunnel.

Are there any other light sources in the cave like lanterns? You could get one and use it for your mine cart ride.

We need to find the other guards and the chief, if the mission was in the mines, there has to be signs of more people here. Does Bart know how to track?

I vote B.

Runey Boi 2022/05/12(Thu)13:15 No. 1032009 ID: db4755
File 165238652688.png - (266.75KB , 800x603 , 51.png )

>B! Send Hegor for help and head into the dark tunnel.

I tell Hegor and Bart of my intentions. Hegor seems overjoyed, thanks me, and is on his way back to the village. Bart doesn't seem super pleased though.

>Can Bart track?

Bart: "I can drink! I can definitely do that!"

Maya: "Not what I asked, Bart."

Runey Boi 2022/05/12(Thu)13:15 No. 1032010 ID: db4755
File 165238654480.png - (349.41KB , 800x603 , 52.png )

>How well did you say you could fight?

I know a decently powerful wind attack that can blow things around if done in the right environment, and I recently learned to create a torch-like flame in my hand! My dagger skills... I could.. maybe stab something? If I had to? I've never really had to fight before.

>Bring an extra light source inside.

I pull one of the torches out of the ground and take it with me. Bart and I both have our own now. We carefully head into the dark cave. The voices from before stop as we approach them. Suddenly, our path stops when we come to a large drop off! Thankfully, we spot it with the extra light! The darkness below us seems endless. Was that talking I heard just the wind?

Looks like goblins. Say hello, ask if they know where the miners went.

There seems to be some figures hiding behind the rocks. Do neither of you two know what they could be? Attempt to communicate. Ask them who they are, if this is their home, and if they know anything about what's going on in this mine.

>>1032010
If you look carefully, you can see 3 heads poking up from behind the rocks in front of you. I can even see their eyes!

Try talking with them. If they end up being hostile, you and Bart can knock them down the hole!

Get to cover, try to ask the goblins what's what. If they attack, show no mercy.

>>1032010
Greet them - you know they're there, even if they try to hide. Who are they? Ask if they know what beast has taken hold of the other Kin that were here earlier.

>goblins!
Mayhaps. Other beings have pointed ears.

For the record, just because you are the champion chosen to find the runes, doesn't mean you are immune to death. So don't be reckless.

Runey Boi 2022/05/12(Thu)17:32 No. 1032043 ID: db4755
File 165240196222.png - (198.75KB , 800x603 , 53.png )

>Just because you are the champion, doesn't mean you are immune to death! Don't be reckless

I didn't really think I was, but thank you for the warning! To be honest, I'd really like to head home and sleep in my nice bed right now... But I can't just leave when Alto could be being killed! He's my only brother!

>Looks like goblins!
>There's figures behind the rocks
>Do either of you know what they could be?

Oh goodness I hope it's not goblins! We'd be in real danger! Bart tells me that goblins don't live this far North. Thank goodness!

>Ask who they are, if this is their home
>Try talking with them
>Greet them, ask if they know what beast has taken the other Kin

Maya: "Excuse me! I can see you down there! Who are you? Is this your home? Do you know what happened to the other Kin who were here? Maybe what sort of beast has taken them?"

Horon: "...We are... Horon! You are... STINKY! And... DUMB! All of mountain is Horon's home! Smelly Kin and Humans not WELCOME! Mountain KNOWS this! And sends... MAGIC to creatures to help be... RID of you! Hehehe! You Kin... are FOOD for the MOUNTAIN! Your light... BURNS us! Go away, stinky!"

It seems these creatures are called 'Horon'. They do bear a striking resemblance to Goblins, but seem more cautious than aggressive toward us. They don't seem very fond of outsiders though. Maybe I could ask some more questions?

A: Speak with them more (Specify)

B: Leave tunnel and head back to village

C: Leave tunnel and head into minecart tunnel

D: Custom input

>He's my only brother!
Sounds like you have a lot of sisters.

Ask them... what does that magic do? And what creatures?

And then C

Looks like the locals have a legitimate beef. And are completely oblivious to even the basics of the economic cycle. Pacifistic Exploitation, Ho!

Spin a story about how your divine spirits have ordered you to purge the earth itself of an ancient curse that nestles within the shiny stones and glass, and that they give outsiders free, delicious bitterroot and moist, rotten fish eggs in exchange for delivering this corrupting waste. Offer to leave them alone forever if they throw out all the useless, cursed glass and toxic rocks - to the mortals, of course, so they in turn can trade for these delicacies that make the confused goblins' stomachs turn.

They get to keep their land and dignity while the locals get cheaper labor with almost no maintenance costs. Win-Win.

>>1032043
A. What magic creatures took them?
You might need to send for reinforcements.

>>1032043
>sends magic to creatures
That might be one of the runes you need to recover. Either someone is using it or it's doing this on its own.

>what do?
A
Let's see if they're dumb enough to tell you what these creatures look like.

>>1032045
Kome I don't think that'll work.

>>1032047
>send for reinforcements
We already did that when we sent Hegor the giant back to the village.

D) First of all, we are; Totes, not dumb and even less stinky!... Wave your torch around as to assert them that we have the advantage here, they could have jumped us at any time if they had any sort of spine.
Ask them if they know what kind of creature the "mountain" sent currently. We will probably have to settle with whatever half-baked response they give and ask about their deal over at the village.

>>1032045
Worth a try
Also we are scary we can create light from nothing and shiny rocks and soft rocks reflect light

>>1032045
Worth a try
Also we are scary we can create light from nothing and shiny rocks and soft rocks reflect light

Do a T-pose as a way of a friendly gesture to the creatures and ask about the magic.

Runey Boi 2022/05/13(Fri)09:19 No. 1032093 ID: db4755
File 165245878003.png - (393.57KB , 800x603 , 54.png )

>Sounds like you have a lot of sisters

I have two sisters, so.. It's not that many!

>it might be one of the magic runes

You think? If that's true, we're on the right track then!

>we are totes not dumb and even less stinky!

Right? I smell totes AWESOME!

>What does magic do?
>What creatures?
>T-Pose and wave torch to assert dominance

Maya: "I am NOT stinky! Tell me... What sort of creatures do you speak of? Describe them! And what does this magic you speak of do?"

Runey Boi 2022/05/13(Fri)09:19 No. 1032094 ID: db4755
File 165245879856.png - (386.95KB , 800x603 , 55.png )

Horon: "Ach! The Kin threaten us with it's NASTY light! And... You not stinky as much... As HIM!" They gesture to Bart.

Bart: "Wh-Hey! Shut up! I smell fine!"

Horon: "STINKY! The Mountain's... Creatures are her DEFENDERS! Quiet and quick... STICKY and CRAWLING! TRAP poor little Horon.. and even STINKY KIN! But now... Magic makes them... ANGRY! And... STRONG! They... GROW."

It sounds like Bart was the real problem in the stink department. Oh! And it seems whatever magic there is has made the creatures they speak of more powerful. The Horon shrink back into the cavern, away from the light. They disappear from view.

Horon: "You will... DIE!"

What a rude thing to say before leaving! They're gone though. Deep into the cave.

A: Head into minecart tunnel

B: Head back to village

C: Follow Horon??

D: Custom input

>You will... DIE!
>How rude!
Well, we were pretty rude waving that light in their faces. Imagine if something stung your eyes real bad and someone else insisted on poking it in front of your face? They do seem to take offense easily enough, though. Might have some saved-up grievances from all the mining that's been done here. Or suffered previous rude encounters.

Ah well. Diplomacy later - it sort of sounds like the guards really do need saving. And... also other Horons? Maybe you can win some goodwill there if you can manage to free them as well.

>Mountain's defenders, sneaky and quiet, sticky and crawling
Hm... sounds like it could be some form of slime creature? They can cling to roofs - come from every angle, and certainly be able to, say, restrain and drag off some guards.

They might've been an ordinary common danger, but powered by one of the Runes of magic, they've become far more dangerous. Especially if, as the Horon suggested, magic feeds them. If one or more has grown to a size where it can extend tentacles and envelop people, it's going to be rather troublesome to deal with!

You will have to consider how to fight something like that without magic. Sure, you can cut it - but if it just reforms its slimey mass, that'll take ages, and be dangerous besides if it's big and flexible enough to take on a team of guards. You could smush it with rocks, but it might just be able to reform. If they have some sort of general weakness - like a core to destroy - the rockslide idea might have merit, though.

I don't think you should go off into the mine half-cocked. If only you could draw the things out into a killing ground you've got prepared! Then you could do all manner of manual solutions - dump oil on it and set it on fire, the rockslide idea, have Hegor chuck stuff at 'em. Maybe you could prepare that regardless, with aid from the village, and then wander into the mine. With any luck, you can simply run and draw the enemy out into the open for a confrontation.

Of course, the more time we take to prepare and plan the more time the guards are in the creatures' tendrils.

A

>>1032094
>mountain defenders
>quiet and quick, sticky and crawling
>they grow
That sounds like it could possibly be giant spiders.

>next?
A

Head into minecart tunnel. Be careful and watch out for giant spider webs!

A)
>>1032107
Mmmh, this looks more dangerous every moment. If we are speaking of gigant spiders, I think those could be the ones which throw webs to catch and drag. That would explain why guards couldn't defend against them.

Be spiders or not, those creatures probably can attack and snach from shadows with more range than our torches. Do we have extra cloth? We could cover ourselves with some cloack ready to let loose. You can do it with a simple knot, leaving one end half tucked in the last pull.

Also, carts can make too much sound but is a movile covet. (And could we push ourselves with magic?)

>>1032110
Yeah, it would be like how this one kid used their air powers on a citywide delivery system.

So, A it is.

>>1032094
Follow Horon?

Going A).
Was thinking of going back to the village but we don't really have much information to be asking for help and the village people would probably not understand what we mean with the cryptics of the Horon.
It's sounding a lot like it's giant spiders but that could possibly work out a little for us, the small flame we create can burn down the cobwebs and, if our flame isn't particularly weak we could possibly do a fire breath of sorts mixing our wind and fire magic.

Runey Boi 2022/05/14(Sat)08:44 No. 1032201 ID: db4755
File 165254307035.png - (578.67KB , 800x1200 , 56.png )

>A, head for the minecart tunnel

Very well! Bart and I leave the dark tunnel behind, and head into the minecart tunnel. It's not as dark as the other tunnel at least!

>Sticky and crawling? Sounds like some form of slime creature?

A slime creature? Sounds pretty gross! But I think I could probably deal with-

=====

>Sounds like giant spiders.

>Yeah, spiders.

>Definitely giant spiders.

Giant... Spiders? Like... Like how giant are we talking here? Like the size of your hand? Because I am NOT okay with that!

>Do we have extra cloth for protection?

I'm only wearing what you see! All I'm wearing right now is this nice dress!

Runey Boi 2022/05/14(Sat)08:44 No. 1032202 ID: db4755
File 165254308440.png - (308.24KB , 800x603 , 57.png )

>Push the minecart with wind magic for extra cover!

>Watch out for spider webs!

I inform Bart of our new plan and we head back and climb inside the mine cart. Bart gives us a starting push. It's kind of fun! And terrifying! I don't spot any spider webs above the usual size though.

>Mix wind and fire magic?

Hmm, I've heard tales of great magicians combining magic before. I wonder if I could do it!

Runey Boi 2022/05/14(Sat)08:45 No. 1032203 ID: db4755
File 165254310131.png - (270.90KB , 800x603 , 58.png )

We slow down and enter an open room... There's two Kin lying on the floor! Omigosh...! They're wearing the same armor as Bart, I wonder if-

Bart: "CAPTAIN!!!"

Before I can do anything, Bart leaps from the cart and sprints towards them in a panic!

>>1032203
Maya, look out! There’s something on the ceiling behind you!

Check out the area.

So the captain is severely wounded. This isn't looking so hot for us in terms of odds then, we've got a strong gust and a small flame, and no knowledge if they could be mixed.
There seems to be something above, seems to be cobwebs, so look up to investigate. Whatever it may turn out to be it's probably better to regroup with Bart since it looks close to you. We need help with pushing the minecart if there's something ambushing here and anyways our buddy here could always make a handy distraction if things get really dire...

Maya, look up behind you!

>>1032203
Get the cart, get some offense magic ready in case this is an ambush.

>>1032223
I mean get out the cart

Cast a blast of wind at the roof above you and wall behind you. Take care not to blow out your torches.

Tell Bart to look UP and draw his dang sword. Self-safety first! Can't rescue anyone if you're about to be spider food, too!

Quick, use fire spells to propel the cart forward! Yell at Bart to retreat if you can, try to distract the spiders!

Take cover with the cart and search the enemy! Be prepare to cover Bart with your magic.

Runey Boi 2022/05/14(Sat)15:51 No. 1032244 ID: db4755
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>Look out! Behind you!

Huh??

Runey Boi 2022/05/14(Sat)15:51 No. 1032245 ID: db4755
File 165256868711.png - (420.18KB , 800x603 , 60.png )

HOLY SHI-