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File 171200833717.png - (23.07KB , 800x600 , 2111.png )
1087613 No. 1087613 ID: 46e818

Our work is done.
The raider's camp is broken.

Finesse, Tislomer, Ashedel and I traveled again to the villages of the Timore Woodlands, bringing with us the abducted children we recovered from their captivity.

Finesse's old village, Ihnesh-Nayevh, was presentable, but still recovering from the previous chaos. With their stolen children reunited, and the blessings of the Seer reaffirmed in symbol, they pledged themselves without hesitation to our cause.

Still, we chose to give them the time and distance to recover themselves, and I vowed to send an emissary in the coming days to establish a more foundational agreement.
Expand all images
>>
No. 1087614 ID: 46e818
File 171200838965.png - (16.39KB , 800x600 , 2112.png )
1087614

We returned next to the Blue Trees, and returned the remaining children to their parents.
The Kobold Elder was true to his word. He swore fealty to me as local lord, and promised a long and prosperous alliance.

He directed us to the ceremony master's dwelling, where again we met with Tislomer's father, who had in our absence been tasked with gathering arcane intelligence for us, as well as a means of exorcism for Pendle, still in bondage at the Vault.

I was surprised, then, when he presented me with a small paper box and a note, which he claimed had been left by divine intervention.
>>
No. 1087615 ID: 46e818
File 171200840815.png - (12.82KB , 800x600 , 2113.png )
1087615

The missive was woven, not written.

Lines of fabric and fiber, almost metallic to the touch, wound themselves in strange patterns along the page, and yet, as my eyes traced the knots and seams in their paths, the meaning was somehow perfectly clear.

This gift had been sent by the Seer.

It contained a rare root from a distant land, of rare and valuable property. Powdered in a poultice, it is often used as a treatment for burns and insect stings. Ingested in small doses, it can surely expel any demon from a possessed host.
>>
No. 1087616 ID: 46e818
File 171200842444.png - (12.63KB , 800x600 , 2114.png )
1087616

But, the note warns with emphasized urgency, the skin of the root is toxic to the sensitive biology of Voltos -- perhaps even lethal. Tislomer helpfully volunteers to carry it home.

The root is not named in the note's odd language, but the ceremony master believes he recognizes it as "houndsgall". He notes it is believed locally extinct.
>>
No. 1087617 ID: 46e818
File 171200850223.png - (12.88KB , 800x600 , 2115.png )
1087617

In my absence, the ceremony master reveals he has also unearthed information regarding the ever-mysterious symbol I have been trying to research.

He says it is the symbol of an old, perhaps even ancient God, which the locals call "Algotsfilvris", or the "Shield of Comose".

Supposedly, this was a god of "Protection of the Ugly", an often brutal guardian of those the world would call impure or disgusting.
But the ceremony master says he knows of no one who worships this entity.
>>
No. 1087633 ID: ce619a

>>1087617
>guardian of those the world would call impure or disgusting
We're allied with orcs, a dragon, bugfolk and now lord-protector of goblins and kobolds. Kind of seems like we're already an indirect acolyte of this god.
Might be an idea to bring this up to the ceremony master and ask if it would be wise to begin directly worshiping this god if for no other reason than to deny the czar it's boons.
>>
No. 1087645 ID: 421554

>>1087617
Oh. So... Algotsfilvris is the protector of the ugly. And Mister Lollipop is the local god, protecting those in these woods, many of whom are quote unquote monstrous. And he is, known only to us, a disquieting, brutal figure... It could be a false lead, but it is something.

I wonder how much you're actually listening to us right now, Muschio. You've been awfully deaf to our words regarding Mister Lollipop, at least.
>>
No. 1087651 ID: 2f41db

>>1087616
Think it might be worth getting tislomer a nice, well made lockbox while thats present big M.
I trust her, but she could do with something to store high risk ingredients anyway.
>>
No. 1087653 ID: 8f9bc4

> the skin of the root is toxic to the sensitive biology of Voltos -- perhaps even lethal

Oh I'm sure this root is going to be used entirely for its intended purpose, with nothing unfortunate happening at all.
>>
No. 1087659 ID: eb0a9c

>>1087616
Aaand the Seer has just proven that they can have you assassinated at any time, even if you flock off their domain.

Tislomer's new task is to bioengineer an antidote for this stuff. Erisol can use her magic to preserve your skin sample, and then you smear the poison after soaking it in experimental compunds. If it doesn't shrivel up and die instantly, we're making progress.

>>1087617
Crud. I think I know what the Czar is going after; he mis-interpreted the scripture and thinks his god shows favor to a "Master of Mutants", so he's mutating and brainwashing everyone he can get a firm grip on to earn the most favor for being the ruler of the ugly madpixies. Pretty sure that's not how it works, but he can still siphon a sliver of power by accidentally showing some occasional slack to his creations - and that sliver has already made him unkillable.
>>
No. 1087662 ID: ce619a

>>1087653
Pretty sure it's just a (in)convenient reason why we can't use it on ourselves to check if the demon is really gone from us
>>
No. 1087666 ID: 82e021

Have a taste. Just a pinch. You know you want to. You want to see what happens. You want to feel the burn.
>>
No. 1087672 ID: 147f9a

>>1087616
Biology? Are you open to briefly explain about this subject of the voltos around this part?
>>
No. 1087682 ID: 7b00fc

Well you could always build up an immunity by taking very small doses and slowly increasing.
>>
No. 1087691 ID: 7493dd

>>1087633
Capital idea!

>>1087662
I believe Mr. Lollipop would have been able to tell if that was the case.

But truth be told, we have the people that can get us get immunity/antidote, if needed.

Now we can also make special tea for every one in the base just to be on the save side.
>>
No. 1087692 ID: 273c18

>>1087615
Oh good, we can use that to guarantee that our bandaged-up buddy is safe to release. ...ah, those vines we kept seeing, those were strings of knots?

>>1087617
Ah. The assassin wears a mask. Perhaps they are simply a worshipper trying to solidify their faith? Further research should be done, now that we know what it is.

...give it to Finnesse for now, hehehe.
>>
No. 1087711 ID: 2f41db

>>1087682
Excellent idea.
The thought that any would be assassin could counter that stratagem is inconceivable.
>>
No. 1087775 ID: eb0a9c

>>1087711
Oh har de har har.
Seriously though, if we're going to be poisoning anyone to death, spiking their drinks with heavy metals is both sadistic and effective at turning them into insane time bombs.
>>
No. 1087806 ID: 46e818
File 171209164242.png - (19.41KB , 800x600 , 2116.png )
1087806

With our quest resolved, the children saved, and immediate plans for a mutual alliance in place, I feel our quest in the Timore Woodlands is at long last completed.

We return home with the Houndsgall root and a few small trinkets given as gifts of thanks.

>"What do you think, Master Muschio? We have a little information on the amulet, but I don't feel it brings us any closer to an answer."
"I'd like to ask Pendle about it more, when he's cleared. Now that we have a name and he'll have access to his papers, perhaps he'll be able to help illuminate why my fresh enemy Czar Bomba has such an obsession with this little relic that he was willing to send his assassin after me."
>"Yeah an' maybe we can find the Shield of Commas an' I get to hold it one time if we do."

"Tislomer... what are you eating?"
>"The candy Mr. Lollipop gave me. I'm not eating the root okay I'm not stupid."
>"I gave it to Ashedel to carry, master."
>>
No. 1087808 ID: 90c4c1

Don't forget the debriefing with Ashdel once we get back to base. After action reports are important to identify potential issues before they become problems.
>>
No. 1087817 ID: e77f5d

>>1087806
Is Ashe alright? She still has a look about her that is... Well maybe not traumatized but definitely still processing whatever she just saw.
>>
No. 1087823 ID: 54195c

What kind of trinkets did we get? I wonder if we can feed any of them to the monster portal
>>
No. 1087828 ID: dc4bad

>>1087817
that or she's looking AT something. something high and in the distance?

...The base better not be on fire or something, we are thiiis close to having our situation stabilize properly.
>>
No. 1087842 ID: 443b73

I'm a bit concern over what Mr. Lollipop's candy might be.
Now that we are out of his influence can Muschio hear or acknowledge how fucked up that god was from our point of view?
>>
No. 1087844 ID: 273c18

>>1087806
Let's keep better track of the horrible poison. Wouldn't want another mixup.
>>
No. 1087848 ID: 2f41db

>>1087806
Walk tall big M.
All four of you infact.
As much as you decry the romanticism of some things, you return as child saving heroes.
>>
No. 1087883 ID: 46e818
File 171215703329.png - (8.57KB , 800x600 , 2117.png )
1087883

"Well, now we have a name, at least.
Tislomer, can you tell us anything about Algotsfilvris? Do you recognize that word?"
>"No, sorry. I just thought it meant Shield of Comets or whatever dad said."
"Well, does it or doesn't it mean that?"
>"I dunno."
"I suppose we can just have Pendle translate when we get home."
>>
No. 1087884 ID: 46e818
File 171215711240.png - (9.18KB , 800x600 , 2118.png )
1087884

>"Good luck, Master Muschio. The kobold tongue is notoriously resistant to literal translation."
>"Yeah they said it's jittering."
>"Gibberish."
>"Yeah that"
"Well fine. At least we have some kind of lead. Whatever Pendle can find will give us more avenues for asking, if nothing else."
>>
No. 1087888 ID: ce619a

We could go visit the seer again and ask him + show him the amulet replica. Being a god he should know better than anyone.
>>
No. 1087889 ID: 8f9bc4

I don't want to go to the seer again...
>>
No. 1087898 ID: 24ce25

>>1087889
I agree. That is a problem for a later day.
>>
No. 1087904 ID: feca34

Maybe you should ask your companions about how they're generally feeling after this adventure, and if they have any opinions or concerns to share. General feedback. You'll need to get practice listening to people as your domain expands.
>>
No. 1087907 ID: 2f41db

>>1087904
And take the time to commend them for their service.
Good for morale, big M.
>>
No. 1087909 ID: ce619a

>>1087907
Indeed, give everyone a round of firm pats on the rump.
They've earned it. :)
>>
No. 1087916 ID: 82e021

Ask nicely if Tislomer will give you a price of candy. It's from Mr Lollipop it must be good.
>>
No. 1087920 ID: 05fc82

We have more than one mystic. Cut to Ona and let’s start asking her about Algotsfilvris and houndsgall. Try and get somewhere while we head back.
>>
No. 1087936 ID: 46e818
File 171225519066.png - (13.52KB , 800x600 , 2119.png )
1087936

Huh? Oh no, yeah. I'm here. Hey. Been a minute. Did everything go okay out there?

I don't recognize the name "Algotsfilvris", but I know "houndsgall". I didn't realize it was a real thing, though. Or at least, not anymore. I heard a lot of stories about it, though. Shows up in legends. Pretty dangerous stuff, as far as plants go.
>>
No. 1087937 ID: 46e818
File 171225530459.png - (12.36KB , 800x600 , 2120.png )
1087937

If you got your hands on some, I'd definitely say try not to touch it with bare skin. I don't have a lot of hard data but all the stories talk about it burning hands. Even if it's got exorcismal properties, I would use, like, extremely small dosages.


...hey, did you guys really see a God? Like, an actual honest God?
>>
No. 1087938 ID: 8f9bc4

>>1087937

We saw an inverted star, a hideous creature from beyond that struggled to even exist in a way that was compatible with mortal beings, though he did seem to be trying. We met someone bound by laws we could not understand, and un-bound by what normally restricts us in reality, living in agony despite seemingly limitless power. His name's Mister Lollipop.
>>
No. 1087939 ID: 56382e

>>1087937
We saw... Something. To call him a true god feels somewhat disingenuous but what else can we refer to it as? There is definitely something that has a lot of power and derives a lot of it from their followers, and the power their followers give them shapes their form and abilities. But there was also a darker side to it, we could see things that- I would describe it as taking a peek backstage at what may have been actually happening, and what we saw was deeply troubling.
>>
No. 1087940 ID: feca34

Ok Very Important Note: Have Ashedel wash her hands as soon as she gets back. ESPECIALLY if she still wants to follow up on that personal debriefing with Muschio.
>>
No. 1087941 ID: 2f40c8

Ona, every time we try to describe what we saw, Muschio and co. ignored us.
Whatever he truly is, he has the power to mask reality. But while mortals don't have anywhere near the spell resistance needed, we do - barely. Between flashes of pink flamboyance, we got to see horror flavored in the form of our nightmares.
>>
No. 1087942 ID: eef602

we could try something with ona
try saying something involving the words of the god that we met
if she hears something like "the god is _____, and also ____" then we'll know that it's being blocked. Or it might block the entire sentence entirely from being heard. I dont know how strong his powers are.
>>
No. 1087943 ID: 8f9bc4

>>1087941
to be fair, Muschio ignores us a lot
to be fair, we kinda deserve it
>>
No. 1087945 ID: ce619a

>>1087937
>...hey, did you guys really see a God? Like, an actual honest God?
YES.

Ambient mass mind control, seamless dimension shifting and manipulation of time, hallowing people out on a spiritual level and turning them into divine-husk finger-puppets. From our standpoint on a practical level, yes, that was a god.
Spookiest part is Muschio and the rest of the group were incapable of perceiving or remembering most of this crap when it happened.

It was the one that "generated" the houndsgall, btw. Might be some divine juju on it. Could be something to check out when we get back.
>>
No. 1087946 ID: bf2925

>>1087937
Oh yes. And it almost became one of those rape things. You would have had a good time.
>>
No. 1087954 ID: 05fc82

Is Pendel doing well? Also, what's with the strange diagram on the chalk board?
>>
No. 1087968 ID: 273c18

Mister Lollipop acted like he had met Muschio before, called him "Big M" but I wonder if he wasn't referring to us.
>>
No. 1087984 ID: ce0847

>>1087968
Crazy theory, but maybe Mister Lolipop is the one who made the orb of Infinite Psyche, he made us. Hence why we can see what was actually happening.
>>
No. 1087987 ID: 2f41db

>>1087937
"God" yes.
"Honest" the jury is still out.
Theres darkness in the deep of the woods.
I think its an ally, but doubts linger.
>>
No. 1087998 ID: 443b73

Mister Lolipop is a terrifying being, a greasy beast surrounded by unnatural darkness and sweet illusions. Paradoxically he also has good intentions and seem to be trustworthy. A charming perverted and a sinister parental figure. Let's never meet him again.

>>1087941
>Between flashes of pink flamboyance, we got to see horror flavored in the form of our nightmares.
I still think those glimpses were us being briefly pullet into his perspective.

>>1087945
>seamless dimension shifting and manipulation of time
That wasn't real. He just mind controlled Muschio giving us a perceive lost of time.
>hallowing people out on a spiritual level and turning them into divine-husk finger-puppets
Is that what happened? I though they were reduced to mincemeat and rearranged as functional masked minion creatures.
>>
No. 1088000 ID: ce619a

>>1087998
You forgot the bit where we walked into the dark bog, Tislomer called lollipop's name then suddenly we went back in time to the beginning of us approaching the bog, but with the bog replaced by the sunny glade.
Also, all the reality shifting back and forth between the glade and bog that no one was able to perceive.
>>
No. 1088014 ID: 443b73

>>1088000
The bright woods with flowers everywhere and a pink aura was the illusion. The dark woods with weird wires and oil everywhere was the reality the group perceived before meeting him and we got glimpses of occasionally. We never went back in time.
>>
No. 1088021 ID: 006510

Hey ona, what’s up with the chalkboard?
>>
No. 1088037 ID: 7493dd

>>1087937
I'll say a lower case one, but one nonetheless and is on our side, which is nice.
>>
No. 1088046 ID: ebae20

>>1087937
Yeah but he kept trying to see boobs/bang the girls
>>
No. 1088121 ID: 46e818
File 171245886427.png - (8.73KB , 800x600 , 2121.png )
1088121

Forced action, threatening aura, influence on the mind... yeah, that sounds like a God all right.
My understanding is that dealings with Gods are usually not worth attempting. One rarely comes out unchanged. Simply being around them seems to lead to disaster more often than not, in some pretty horrific forms.
>>
No. 1088122 ID: 46e818
File 171245903766.png - (13.67KB , 800x600 , 2122.png )
1088122

Anyway, Pendle's sleeping in his cell for now, but when the group gets back (which I guess is any minute now?) you can ask him, I'm sure he'll have more insight on the matter, since it's sorta his area.

Oh, and as for the markings on the chalkboard, I'm just practicing my runes. It's not really a precise science or anything, but patterns emerge the more you work with them. Kind of amazing how a single line out of place or an angle too loose can break a sigil, but--

>WHUMP
What is--
>WHUMP WHUMP WHUMP
OH
it's the front door. I forgot we totally remodeled that.
Well, I guess now's the time to try it out!
>>
No. 1088123 ID: 2f41db

>>1088121
A clear mind and sceptical opinion may be of use in future dealings with it.
Honestly, im not sure if he was affecting us in some way too.
Glad you're there Ona.

>>1088122
Oh!
New stuff.
Lead the way.
>>
No. 1088124 ID: eb0a9c

Why does your new entrance sound like a wombat twerking something to death?
>>
No. 1088125 ID: ebae20

>>1088122
Is there a way to peek outside first? I know the group is on the way back, but it never hurts to be overly cautious
>>
No. 1088137 ID: 273c18

>>1088122
Don't forget security practices. We don't know if that's Muschio.
>>
No. 1088139 ID: ce619a

>>1088122
>>1088137
Well, there's one sure fire way to check that: Send us back to Muschio
>>
No. 1088145 ID: 8f9bc4

>>1088122

Huh, in that case Mister Lollipop was an unusually restrained God. He had plenty of chances to utterly destroy Muschio & Co., and totally didn't. Saved a bunch of children too.

Dealings with gods is not worth attempting? I think a lot of people pray to gods. Does that not count as dealing with them?
>>
No. 1088146 ID: 7493dd

>>1088121
It's a dangerous dealing indeed.
We should know, we just broke a deal with a dragon just a bit ago. But these relations are the ones that will open the path for our future.

>>1088122
Remember the security triage Ona. You can never be too careful.
>>
No. 1088155 ID: eef602

REMEMBER THE CROTCH MISSILE
>>
No. 1088170 ID: 46e818
File 171251614278.png - (11.41KB , 800x600 , 2123.png )
1088170

Oh yeah! Didn't Muschio show you? We got this cool new entryway, heavily fortified. Makes it easy to check who's trying to come in without throwing the door open wide.
>>
No. 1088171 ID: 46e818
File 171251616116.png - (12.83KB , 800x600 , 2124.png )
1088171

Huh. Well, it's not them.
>>
No. 1088172 ID: 46e818
File 171251618090.png - (6.14KB , 800x600 , 2125.png )
1088172

Looks like a Denling maybe?
Not one of ours, though.
>>
No. 1088173 ID: 8f9bc4

One denling doesn't seem like much of a threat. Maybe it's a messenger? What does the little guy have to say?
>>
No. 1088174 ID: 1ab976

>>1088172
One little guy like that made this huge noises banging on the door?

Get Dompag and Geppa, things might get ugly here in a second.
>>
No. 1088175 ID: 3e302e

>>1088172
Greet the precious little baby!!
>>
No. 1088176 ID: ce619a

>>1088172
>>1088174
Seconding this.
Get someone else first to standby before you greet this thing. Make sure whoever you get is out of sight of this thing. Don't let them know how many people are around and such.
Also, lock the doors to these bunkers as you leave, that thing looks small enough to squeeze into the openings.
>>
No. 1088177 ID: eb0a9c

"Apologies, but you will be required to wait far longer. If you wish for refreshments or commodities, please ask."
>>
No. 1088210 ID: 2f41db

>>1088176
Throwing in a third.

Unless you guys have a weird doorbell now, thats a lot of noise for a lil guy.

Backup needed but still time to politely ask who it is and what their business here is.
>>
No. 1088228 ID: 273c18

>>1088172
Alright, treat this as a possible attack. Call for the guards to be on hand, and make standard preparations otherwise like being ready to retreat across the trap zone.

Ask the little guy who they are and who else is with them.
>>
No. 1088232 ID: 7493dd

>>1088172
Better safe than sorry. Step back, call the muscle and Emmy for input. Finally (from a safe distance, mind you) address the interloper.
>>
No. 1088238 ID: 4d8b77

>>1088172
Jesus Christ, is that a fucking gremlin?
>>
No. 1088255 ID: 42436b

It's a trick. Get an axe.
>>
No. 1088260 ID: 46e818
File 171260686001.png - (12.84KB , 800x600 , 2126.png )
1088260

Damn, you guys are being weird, even for you. There's nobody else here, see? We put little mirrors up in the corners so we could see the whole hall from in here, if anyone else was past the outer gate we'd know.

But if you're really that insistent, I'll make sure I have backup.
"Dompag! Someone's at the door, would you come here please?"
>"I'm coming!"
>>
No. 1088262 ID: 46e818
File 171260701401.png - (8.92KB , 800x600 , 2127.png )
1088262

>"Salutations!
>I bring good tidings!
>My master, the esteemed Morphyl Rabas, has sent me as messenger. I am here to inform you he is en route to this location as a peaceful guest."
>>
No. 1088263 ID: 46e818
File 171260711866.png - (8.12KB , 800x600 , 2128.png )
1088263

>"Master Rabas is scheduled to arrive in three days. I hope this gives you ample time to prepare for a visit.
>He wishes me to inform you he will be arriving with gifts and goodwill.
>Further details have been committed here to paper.

>Thank you, and good day!"
>>
No. 1088265 ID: abefbd

>>1088263
That name isn't ringing any bells with us, at a guess he is someone who saw Muschio flying in on a dragon and wishes to be in his good graces.

> Morphyl Rabas
Let's remember the name. Maybe Muschio might know? Or maybe not, denlings are monsters from a monster portal so either they are a lord who has no problem using monsters or they are another lord of a dungeon. Guess we'll find out.
>>
No. 1088275 ID: 8f9bc4

What a polite little fellow! What does the paper say?
>>
No. 1088277 ID: 2f41db

>>1088263
DONT READ IT,
IT MIGHT BE EXPLODING DEATHRUNES.

Ahhh, just messing with you.
Youre right.
We are a bit weird right now.
Still on edge from meeting the godthing, you know?

Weirdest thing...
I was convinced he could see and hear us.
>>
No. 1088278 ID: ce619a

>>1088260
>But if you're really that insistent
We've been invaded by paladins, assassins and demons; we're in conflict with the city-state of a powerful wizard who wishes us dead; we have a princess of a kingdom captive; and we rode back here on a dragon which could garner more aggression from forces unafraid of dragons.

Yes, we are very insistent. We need maximum security standards around here and after everything that's happened, better safe than sorry. Even putting previous threats aside, we're starting to hit the big leagues and that means all kinds of schmucks looking to make a name for themselves could be taking shots at us now.
That little guy could've been a magic bomb or a living portal to teleport an army in here. He still could've put down some kind of trap or spying device/spell in the entrance. Once they're gone have Erisol and anyone still at the base who's good at spotting traps check the area for that kind of thing.

But yeah, with all that in mind, sorry you're having to be the gatekeeper here. You're supposed to be the doctor, not the doorman. Once our ranks swell a bit more you won't have to stick your neck out like this anymore. You've already been thrust into danger more times than you ever should have even before this.
>>
No. 1088279 ID: 273c18

>>1088260
Oh that's the *outside*, alright. Didn't see the little guy there in that view.

>>1088263
Wait until Dompag gets here before touching that.
>>
No. 1088285 ID: f351b4

Well, Ona, you're the smart one, if there's any curses or anything on that letter you're the one here with the best chances with them.

Offer the little guy some hospitality, a chance to have something to eat and drink, and rest. He probably won't take it, but it's the polite thing to do!
>>
No. 1088318 ID: 53560f

Huh, what do you know? Someone is seeking us out and issn’t immediately trying to kill or threaten us. How often does that happen anymore?
Lets read that note.
>>
No. 1088375 ID: 05fc82

Before we open it, ask if Morphyl Rabas is an elf. We just dealt with some slavers with a royal permit in elf script. Next, take the message and wait for Muschio to return. If there is a crest or emblem on it, show it to him and see if it looks like the one on the slavers permit. If they are the same, that is going to complicate this visit.
>>
No. 1088389 ID: 46e818
File 171268782759.png - (13.97KB , 800x600 , 2129.png )
1088389

"Is Mr. Rabas--"
>"Yes and good day to you too! Now I must be off to meet with my master! Glad tidings!"
>>
No. 1088390 ID: 46e818
File 171268789878.png - (6.75KB , 800x600 , 2130.png )
1088390

Well, he let himself out.

The letter is definitely sealed, you're right. Wax stamp. I'll leave it for Muschio to open. The symbol I don't recognize, it's -- actually, can you see it? I'm holding it up, can you see it like this? I feel like I'm still not really sure how this works.

Anyway, that name doesn't mean anything to me.
>>
No. 1088391 ID: ce619a

>>1088390
Might as well ask around the rest of the base if the name Morphyl Rabas rings a bell to anyone
>>
No. 1088392 ID: 34642b

>>1088390
Guess we better start getting some accommodations setup for our esteemed guest. Might wanna make some diplomat quarters and get Babrakus to make some fancy furniture.
>>
No. 1088393 ID: eb0a9c

Hang on, let me cast something...

Hm.

Doesn't look like an anagrammed name. I mean, who names their kid Bromals Harpy?

Put the letter in a vault for now, only Muschio should read it.
>>
No. 1088399 ID: 6e220c

>>1088390
Yeah, don't open it until Muschio himself sees it. He'll probably want to see it himself. Check around the Vault and see if anyone currently here has heard the name Morphyl Rabas. If we can get back to Muschio we'll ask him ourselves.
>>
No. 1088403 ID: 7fd8d8

I'm gonna be real with you Ona, our memory kinda works like a library and if that name or sigil exists in our recollection it is way too much a pain in the metaphorical crystalline ass to go check right now for this voice. Maybe one of these other fine voices would like to go look but I'm not gonna guarantee it.

I'll tell you what though I can't help but notice some of those wax 'drips' form an oddly straight line through that seal. Especially that one poking on the top left is weirdly thin if you think about how wax is likely to fall on a page and get squished around by a seal. Did you know one trick assassins use is to hide a poisoned needle inside wax when you seal a letter so that you prick yourself when you break it open?
>>
No. 1088408 ID: 17f024

>>1088403
We'll make sure Muschio or anyone else opens it with a knife to make sure. Good call.
>>
No. 1088416 ID: 2f41db

>>1088390
Yeah, we can see it.
Along with some of your thoughts.
...
..
.
So very lewd.
>>
No. 1088420 ID: 05fc82

I think we should cut back to Muschio then. Update him on this sudden invite, prod for information, and make sure nothing bad is happening on the way back to the vault.
>>
No. 1088440 ID: 7493dd

>>1088390
The Boss and/or Pendel are the ones that realistically may have info on the guy.
>>
No. 1088443 ID: debc82

>>1088390

No writing or any other identifying marks on the exterior? Nothing other than the seal to maybe identify the sender as this ... "Rabas" or whomever?
>>
No. 1088448 ID: 46e818
File 171277391099.png - (10.41KB , 800x600 , 2131.png )
1088448

"You know any 'Morphyl Rabas', Dompag?"
>"No, but if they're anything short of second in line I probably wouldn't."
"Hm."
>"Hey, how 'bout let's pop open that letter, boss is gonna get the message quicker if we relay it to him in the orb, right?"
>>
No. 1088449 ID: ce619a

>>1088448
The little guy said he's due in three days, so there's no rush to read it.
Ask Pendle if he's heard of this guy.
>>
No. 1088454 ID: 05fc82

>>1088449
I agree. There are others to ask and if the message is enchanted in some way than opening it now might lose us some important information.
>>
No. 1088463 ID: 8e3bf6

>>1088448
If you're gonna open it at least use a knife, less risk of getting poisoned by a needle hidden in the wax.
>>
No. 1088503 ID: eb0a9c

Please don't open it. In fact, wash your hands after touching it.
*Sigh*
If you're going to open that thing up, use a shard of us.
>>
No. 1088504 ID: 2f41db

>>1088448
Its an anagram of "my sharp Balor"
Ring any bells?
Or "Laps my harbor"
Or "harry Slapmob"
Or "barry hopslam"
Or...
Ah, probably just send us back to annoy big M, tell him whats happening and see if he knows them.
Dont open it.
Would be impolite to snoop on missives between nobles.
>>
No. 1088511 ID: 82e021

Dompag's right. Be a huge time saver to open it now and tell Muschio what it says.
>>
No. 1088519 ID: 8f9bc4

>>1088504

Good ol' Harry Slapmob. What a joker. What a card.
>>
No. 1088522 ID: 46e818
File 171287012081.png - (13.11KB , 800x600 , 2132.png )
1088522

"What if it's a code or something? Or an assassin's veiled threat?"
>"Could be an anagram. Like... 'Mr. Parlay Hobs'"
"I don't know anyone by that name, either."
>"Or 'Mr. Boars Haply'. Or 'Holy Bra Ramps'."
"'Holy Bra Ramps' isn't a name."
>"Or 'Harry Mop Slab'."
"...how are you so good at this??"
>>
No. 1088523 ID: 46e818
File 171287018475.png - (13.19KB , 800x600 , 2133.png )
1088523

>"I like puzzles."
>WHUMP WHUMP WHUMP
"There's the knocker again. Probably the boss this time."
>"Maybe it's just the initials. Do we know anyone by M.R.?"
"Why don't you think about that one and I'll go check the door."
>>
No. 1088524 ID: 46e818
File 171287020465.png - (5.64KB , 800x600 , 2134.png )
1088524

"OH"
>>
No. 1088525 ID: 46e818
File 171287025716.png - (12.42KB , 800x600 , 2135.png )
1088525

"MY GOD."

>"Welcome home! Heard it got pretty rough."

"Actually it went great! Let's never do that again."
>>
No. 1088526 ID: 8e1c03

>>1088525
Perfect timing, we got a letter for you. Do know anyone named Morphyl Rabas? Be careful when you open the letter, one of us pointed out a poison needle could be in the wax seal.
>>
No. 1088527 ID: ce619a

>>1088525
Hey Muschio!

♪We just got a le~tter,♪
♪We just got a le~tter!♪
♪We just got a le~tter,♪
♪I wonder who it's from!♪
>>
No. 1088528 ID: 273c18

Someone already said to watch out for a poisoned needle. Don't forget poison dust in the envelope. Just wear a mask when opening it.
>>
No. 1088529 ID: 05fc82

Now we can start the exorcism! Also, while you were away, some sort of Denling delivered a message about 'Morphyl Rabas' arriving in three days with gifts. First, that name ring any bells? Second, check the seal on the message before opening, have to make sure this guy isn't the one who gave the permit to the slavers. Third, prep for political dinner?
>>
No. 1088530 ID: 2f41db

>>1088525
Welcome home big M.
Were doing anagrams.
Hey, what about Ralphy B.o. Arms?
Oh,
Something about a letter too.
>>
No. 1088541 ID: 7493dd

>>1088525
Welcome home Boss, you got mail!
Be sure to inspect it properly, at least put it against a light, etc.
>>
No. 1088578 ID: 46e818
File 171294588568.png - (15.03KB , 800x600 , 2136.png )
1088578

Very well, I will attend to the letter presently.
But first, the matter of Pendle's confirmed exorcism.

We've explained the root and its processes to him. The Seer is a strange and somewhat offputting figure, but I have no reason to doubt the nature of this cure he's given us. So it is up to our ally-turned-captive, roused from his cell.

"Are you prepared to ingest the root? It is some level of toxic, and I cannot be sure you will come out the other end unharmed."
>"I won't hesitate. I need to be sure, as much as anyone here. More.
>Even if I die, at least that would mean a release. At least I would know I was no longer under the thrall of that thing."
>"It's just medicine you two calm down"

Shall we?
>>
No. 1088580 ID: 8f9bc4

*salutes Pendle*
>>
No. 1088581 ID: 047965

>>1088578
Let’s begin, have Ona ready on standby as well as an extra healer
>>
No. 1088584 ID: ce619a

>>1088578
We could ask him stuff beforehand in case he dies, but something tells me he's not going to die.
So, whatever
Do a flip while he eats it, I guess
>>
No. 1088592 ID: f14228

Here's to not being possessed!
>>
No. 1088594 ID: 2f41db

>>1088578
Bravely done pendle.
Begin.

Big m.
Resist any impulse to deeply kiss pendle after this.
No matter how aroused their determination makes you.
>>
No. 1088608 ID: eb0a9c

Well, dang. I was hoping we could plant that thing and start production of a critically rare resource.

Start with a test on tissue sample.
>>
No. 1088616 ID: 8236b7

Have a taste. Just a small one. You want to. You NEED to.
>>
No. 1088642 ID: 7493dd

>>1088578
Moment of truth
fingers crossed
>>
No. 1088649 ID: 940726

>>1088578
>The Seer is a strange and somewhat offputting figure, but I have no reason to doubt the nature of this cure he's given us.
I wouldn't agree with that. He did deliberately mislead us as to the nature of the last magical boon he gave us. I'd prefer to get the opinion of an herbologist before we test it on anyone, but I think we've done about as well as we can on that subject.

Even so, if he's willing to risk death for the sake of a cure, it's likely that he'll want to try it regardless.
>>
No. 1088668 ID: 46e818
File 171303011670.png - (12.06KB , 800x600 , 2137.png )
1088668

>"Okay here goes say ahh"
>"Ehh"
>"Close enough"
>>
No. 1088669 ID: 46e818
File 171303013370.png - (10.68KB , 800x600 , 2138.png )
1088669

>Mkmp.
>>
No. 1088673 ID: 46e818
File 171303036326.png - (14.11KB , 800x600 , 2139.png )
1088673

>"EeeAAAaauughhhhHHHhhhuouhhhh GOD
>it's the BITTEREST THING I've ever tasted
>euAUHH IT'S VILE
>AAAAAAAuuuaheuuhhhhhghhhh"
>>
No. 1088674 ID: 46e818
File 171303037719.png - (15.99KB , 800x600 , 2140.png )
1088674

>"aaauuuuuUUUUUuuueuueuuuuuuuUHHHHHGHHHHghhghh ouhhhHhhhhblechhhhhhOUGHhhh"


>"So does that mean he is a demon or no"
>>
No. 1088675 ID: 047965

>>1088674
I’d tell him to quit being overly dramatic but given the situation that might be a good thing. But let’s get the poor boy a glass of water.
>>
No. 1088676 ID: 05fc82

>>1088674
I think it's meant to purge any remaining traces of demonic possession, so hopefully that means the root is working.
>>
No. 1088679 ID: debc82

>>1088674

Huh, just like some people I used to know when they tried espresso for the first time.
>>
No. 1088686 ID: ce619a

Please get Ona in here, now, in case he actually is dying.
Maybe Erisol, too. If there's a demon still afoot she might be able to tell if it's getting cooked by the houndsgall. Also, she might get a kick out of all this.
>>
No. 1088687 ID: 8f9bc4

Get him some water, man!

And a hug!
>>
No. 1088689 ID: 2f41db

>>1088674
If thats a purgative its going to get nasty in here real fast.
Be ready to jump.
You dont want to get "evil" on your clothes.
It stains.
>>
No. 1088743 ID: 82e021

Does tislomer have any candy left? If so she should give him a piece to wipe away the bad taste.
>>
No. 1088744 ID: 273c18

Well Muschio if you ever taste something that's more bitter than it should be, you should spit it out because it's probably that.

...hold up is there something going on with his eye? In this case, the eye matching the demon's injured eye is significant.
>>
No. 1088766 ID: 46e818
File 171312757141.png - (15.71KB , 800x600 , 2141.png )
1088766

"Well. I'm sorry to have kept you in bondage so long as a sane man. I'm sure you understand our reservations, though. We had to be certain."

>"Hough yesofcourse, you wererighttodoso"
>>
No. 1088767 ID: 047965

>>1088766
Let’s give him a look over and see if he’s good to be out of the straight jacket
>>
No. 1088768 ID: ce619a

>>1088766
>that Ona face
Offhandedly suggest out loud it might be a good idea to have all other staff take some of the houndsgall to be completely sure it didn't jump to anyone else.
>>
No. 1088775 ID: 2f41db

>>1088766
Tell him not to worry.
We have more if he needs it.
>>
No. 1088777 ID: 7fd8d8

Muschio get out from in front of the man. Then tell him to swallow?? Then drink. Then let him out of those bindings. He probably needs his bandages changed, too. Do whatever medical checks and things couldn't be done while we were uncertain of him.
>>
No. 1088778 ID: eb0a9c

Now I wanna feed him ghost peppers just to see the look on his face.
>>
No. 1088783 ID: 53560f

>>1088768
We know it can jump between hosts and has a penchant for being sneaky. It’s only good security to make sure everyone tries a bit.
>>
No. 1088810 ID: 82e021

>>1088783
Especially us. We need to know for certain we're not posessed. Wait. Since we're the product of a gypsy curse does that make us a form of possession? Could we be exorcised? Is that why Mr Lollipop doesn't want us (you, Muschio) the houndsgall because it would purge us (your conscious thoughts? Your rational mind? I never really understood us) from you and he knows you need us?

Bugger all that for a game of soldiers go and have a lie down. If your head doesn't hurt yet I'm amazed because mine does and i think im in yours and you and i and me and you no matter how we roll the dice...
>>
No. 1088820 ID: 273c18

>>1088810
Muschio cannot take Houndsgall, it is extremely poisonous to his people.
This also means we can't clear the princess of suspicion.
>>
No. 1088835 ID: 5af148

I mean... is poison for Maltos. And exorcices demons... are Maltos part-demon? XD
>>
No. 1088838 ID: 05fc82

How much houndsgall do we have left? we will need to store it in a safe location.
>>
No. 1088844 ID: 46e818
File 171320835975.png - (14.60KB , 800x600 , 2142.png )
1088844

"Ona. Are you all right with helping him out of his bindings? My group and I need to debrief."
>"Yeah, I'm fine. You guys go on ahead. I can handle this."

"Thank you.
And, Pendle.

It's good to have you back with us."
>>
No. 1088845 ID: 46e818
File 171320849417.png - (13.05KB , 800x600 , 2143.png )
1088845

"All right, c'mon. Let's get you out of those bandages and into a proper bath. I'm sure you're sore from being bound up like this."
>"I'm sore for much bigger reasons."
"Well, once we get you cleaned up, you can rest for a few days, figure out what to do next."
>"No. I'd rather get back to work immediately."

"I don't think that's wise. Your body is... I mean, even just physically speaking, there's more permanent damage than I think you realize."
>"I can feel my own body. I understand enough."
>>
No. 1088846 ID: 46e818
File 171320861518.png - (12.46KB , 800x600 , 2144.png )
1088846

>"Thank you, by the way. For everything. You shouldn't have to be the one to do this, after all I've put you through."
"We both know that wasn't you. Now stop saying your sorry, or I'll make you cook me dinner for every apology."

>"Ona."
"Mhm."
>"Will I be able to walk?"
"Well. With a cane, it should be feasible. And we're going to make you something to help. We'll see how it goes from there. One thing at a time."
>"I understand."
>>
No. 1088847 ID: 16565b

>>1088846
Heh. Don't you mean one step at a time? Never a bad time for a good pun/dad joke.

Anyways if Pendle is good to go, shall we turn our attention to the letter?
>>
No. 1088849 ID: ce619a

You can fix a blown off face, but you can't fix some hobbled limbs?
Also, he's a spider, can't we just cut the limbs off and let him regrow some new ones? Or at least use magic to regrow some fresh ones?
>>
No. 1088858 ID: 2f41db

>>1088846
You know your craft well ona.
When pendle can't hear, tell us please.
How bad is he? Is his species capable of recovery from his level of injury?
>>
No. 1088864 ID: 273c18

>>1088846
Fuzzy chest.
>>
No. 1088885 ID: 7fd8d8

Can you just, like... tie splints to his limbs? He has an exoskeleton, so I'm imagining it would work a little better than for people with just inside bones.

Really though the psychological damage is probably way bigger. Now we know he's himself, we gotta give him a total debriefing, too. How much of who we knew was him and how much the demon, history and skills, et cetera. Hmm. Dompag is probably the closest thing to a personal counselor around here.
>>
No. 1088902 ID: ce619a

Oh yeah, by the way, Ona. We just got the tribes of the woods to swear allegiance to us, so that'll mean a influx of new personnel in the future.
How would you feel about getting some doctoring assistants? Any preferences for kobold or goblins healers?
>>
No. 1088926 ID: 46e818
File 171329701353.png - (11.52KB , 800x600 , 2145.png )
1088926

"Here. Babrakus made this. It's got a rubber flat on the end."
>"Thank you."

"Do you want to try standing, or would you like me to help?"
>"Let me try."
>>
No. 1088928 ID: 46e818
File 171329708675.png - (12.50KB , 800x600 , 2146.png )
1088928

>"Hm. Down to five."
"I'm sorry, Pendle. Tislomer and I, we did everything we could."
>"I appreciate that."
"Now come on, let's get you cleaned up."
>"Yes, all right."
>>
No. 1088931 ID: 8c0b66

>>1088928
Maybe Babrakus and Finesse can make a prosthetic leg for you? Try walking around for now.

Ona can you back up, give him some room to walk around?
>>
No. 1088932 ID: 273c18

Gonna have to get him a prosthetic foot.
>>
No. 1088934 ID: ce619a

>>1088928
Do spiderfolk molt like animal spiders do? Because if so they might come back.
>>
No. 1088952 ID: 64faaa

>>1088934
Oh wow, you're right! I didn't know spiders did that.
>>
No. 1088979 ID: 2f41db

>>1088928
Damn...
Hes really walked through the proverbial fire to be rid of that thing.
Give him your time for now ona.
Be goodvto have you close if he reacts to the gallshound.
Hey.
Maybe a sweet tea might clear the pallete for him?
>>
No. 1088991 ID: 7493dd

>>1088928
We have the technology. We have the tinkerer and the handyman to make the world's first bionic bugfolk. Pendel will be that bugfolk.
>>
No. 1089049 ID: 46e818
File 171337844383.png - (15.58KB , 800x600 , 2147.png )
1089049

"We'll work on a prosthetic for your leg."
>"I'll make do until then."

>"How are you doing? Since everything happened."
"Me? I'm fine. You're the one who's--"
>"I can't thank you properly for helping me like this, after all I did."
"We all know it wasn't you. Everyone's forgiven you, except you."
>"I suppose it will take time, for all of us."
>>
No. 1089050 ID: 11acbb

>>1088991
To be fair, he's more a spiderfolk. Or arachnidfolk? Eight limbs, while bugfolk only have six.
>>
No. 1089080 ID: 2f41db

>>1089049
Get that poor, sweet man a sweet drink and a comfy chair.
>>
No. 1089086 ID: 7fd8d8

There's probably a lot of people he wanted to say sorry to, for a long time. I'm sure there's a lot in his head and his heart it's going to take some time and trouble to clear through. Probably why he wants to occupy himself with some work, he's had enough time already stuck just thinking.
>>
No. 1089124 ID: 46e818
File 171346468096.png - (10.78KB , 800x600 , 2148.png )
1089124

>"How is Mr. Fumo doing?"
"Busy with work. He did say he'll be by to check up on later."
>"I imagine he feels guilty about this."
"Yeah, yeah, you're both self-made martyrs. But I'm still here because of both of you. So the way I see it, everyone did what they had to do, and everyone was very brave.
Now, no more talk of that."
>"Yes, nurse."
>>
No. 1089125 ID: 46e818
File 171346502205.png - (11.09KB , 800x600 , 2149.png )
1089125

"Just try to take it easy, and let me know if the pain gets to be too much."
>"It reminds me I am here."
"You really are dramatic."

>"No, I mean it.
>My body is battered and broken, but for the first time in nearly a year, my mind is finally my own.
>That piercing clarity, that perfect vision.
>A purifying, scouring sunrise has come. And with the dawn, my bright future lays before me.
>I have re-emerged from my cocoon, sharper and sober-minded. The ache I feel is merely the pain of a freeing metamorphosis."

"...well, I'm really glad to hear you're optimistic."
>>
No. 1089126 ID: 46e818
File 171346516236.png - (10.72KB , 800x600 , 2150.png )
1089126

>"Ah yes, the Master's questions. That artifact--
>Will you bring me my books, so I can read while I bathe? If I tell you which ones to pick out."
"You should be resting."
>"I have been a dormant passenger in my own mind for the better part of a year. I am ready for exercise.
>Please."
"...all right. But you need to go easy. Your body needs rest, too."
>>
No. 1089130 ID: ce619a

>>1089124
>>"Yes, nurse."
Oi, don't let him get away with that. Remind him you're a witch doctor.

Anyways, tell him we found out something about that amulet. It's a symbol of a god called Algotsfilvris, also called "Shield of Comose." A god of protection over those considered ugly.
>>
No. 1089132 ID: e3e23a

>>1089126
Attaboy! Don't rest on your laurels.
>>
No. 1089153 ID: 2f41db

>>1089126
His body can rest fine in a bath while his mind runs free.
Say.
Ask him what he would like to drink or eat.
He hasnt had any control over the past year.
Small choices maybe a healing experience.
Even if its a "no" to your offers, having control over that choice will be a small joy.
>>
No. 1089196 ID: 46e818
File 171354772946.png - (11.44KB , 800x600 , 2151.png )
1089196

>"Hey, uh, one last thing. You want me to call you 'Leonid' or...?"
"To be honest, I've grown used to Pendle. It's not something I can fully separate at this point, but the good comes with the bad. And it ties me to this place, a bit."
>"Well. If you're sure. I'll be back in a minute with your books, Pendle."
"Thank you, Miss Openda."
>"Ona's fine."
"Ona, then."
>>
No. 1089198 ID: 46e818
File 171354782880.png - (8.87KB , 800x600 , 2152.png )
1089198

Siiiiigh

Ah, to have that clarity back at long last. The world as it should be.

And to hear a friendly voice in my head, for a change.

Hello again. We've not spoken much, I suppose. Then again I suppose I haven't really spoken to much of anyone here, even when under thrall. It made sense the demon kept to itself.
But I'm ready to be a productive member of this growing clan, now.
>>
No. 1089199 ID: 46e818
File 171354791838.png - (12.67KB , 800x600 , 2153.png )
1089199

Ah, and speaking of.
I didn't realize these were mixed baths, but I suppose with as small a population as we have...

Well, no matter.
>>
No. 1089200 ID: ce619a

Might as well ask directly: Do spiderfolk molt or otherwise have any capability to regrow limbs? Or are you going to need some permanent prosthesis?

Also, in case we were still with Ona when it was said, that amulet is a symbol of a god called Algotsfilvris, Shield of Comose, dominion of protection of the ugly. All according to the loremaster of the kobold tribe, who added that there are no known worshipers in the area.
Any of that ring any bells?
>>
No. 1089202 ID: 7fd8d8

Yeah it seems like we only have the one proper bath. Hopefully it'll promote ease with each other and camaraderie. Even a king's not a king in the bath, sort of thing. While we're on the topic, though, how much of the previous stated needs and preferences we associated with you were the demon, and which the demon keeping up your preferences for pretense? I'd assumed the desire for access to escorts was the demon, though, it would be odd for it to be obvious about it considering what it wanted them for, so perhaps I shouldn't?
>>
No. 1089203 ID: 61bfdb

Well don’t just stare, say hello to Geppa! Introduce yourself, since this is your first conversation!
>>
No. 1089204 ID: 273c18

>>1089199
It's fine just be normal
>>
No. 1089205 ID: bb6579

I know you probably don't need any advice on this one, but keep your hands to yourself for now. And uh, don't poke the bear, or gnoll, on this one.
>>
No. 1089206 ID: 8f9bc4

So what books are you interested in reading?
>>
No. 1089240 ID: 2f41db

>>1089199
Im not going to tell you to do anything.
I figure you'll have had enough of orders from disembodied entities.
So.
What do you want to do now?

Oh, and dont worry about her though, shes sweet.
>>
No. 1089245 ID: eb0a9c

Talk about bunnies.
>>
No. 1089247 ID: 7493dd

>>1089199
Maybe you can tell her about the hot ogre ladies in the area that want to meet her brother.
>>
No. 1089258 ID: fdd26b

I suppose we need you to re-introduce yourself entirely, we don't know what, exactly, was demon and what was you... do YOU remember?
>>
No. 1089261 ID: 861ceb

>I didn't realize these were mixed baths
pretty sure they're not. I just think that one doesn't care.
>>
No. 1089265 ID: 46e818
File 171363767667.png - (15.38KB , 800x600 , 2154.png )
1089265

Couldn't hurt to be friendly, if I'm going to be working around these people.

"Hello. I don't think we've had a chance to speak."
>"Way I hear you haven't really spoken to anyone."
"Well, mostly true, yes.'
>"So you don't have a demon in you anymore, huh?"
"It appears not. I'm in control of my own thoughts, words, and deeds once more."
>"Yeah I'm still tryin' to control myself, too."
"Well, here's to that."
>"Yeah."
>>
No. 1089266 ID: 047965

>>1089265
Uh, miss Erisol? Everything good?
>>
No. 1089267 ID: ce619a

>>1089266
...Ona didn't stick him in the ladies' bath, did she?

I mean, Erisol was diving around in the bath with the guys earlier oogling dongs so I'm not sure why she'd be put off by Pendle being here.
Unless she's afraid of spiders or missing limbs.
>>
No. 1089302 ID: 2f41db

>>1089265
Toldja she was sweet.
Hey, new person behind you to greet.
>>
No. 1089316 ID: 7b65e9

I mean, in a sense Geppa struggled with a "demon" of her own, you can certainly both talk about that and support each other.
If you're comfortable with it, Geppa. Of course.
>>
No. 1089335 ID: 7493dd

>>1089265
Finally a new Onsen Episode, sweet!
>>
No. 1089342 ID: 46e818
File 171373703427.png - (15.08KB , 800x600 , 2155.png )
1089342

>"Hey, look who's out of his cocoon."
"Ah -- um, excuse me. Princess Erisol."
>"Hey! You called me Princess! Wow, someone here knows how to be polite."
>"If he's such a gentleman what's he doing in the woman's bath?"
>"Hey yeah, what kinda gentleman jumps in the bath with a bunch of naked ladies??"
"Wh-- there's only one bath! And I was here first!"
>"He's right, Princess. You did just hop in, like just now."
>gasp!
>"Everyone's calling me Princess today! This is great!"
>>
No. 1089344 ID: ce619a

>>1089342
Try very very hard not to get an erection
>>
No. 1089346 ID: 70ad7b

Stop thinking about sex!!;
>>
No. 1089347 ID: 2f41db

>>1089342
Barely a day out and about and you're nude bathing with two ladies.
Good gods man, you're a gigolo.
>>
No. 1089348 ID: d3d640

Let's not tease too much, any kind of liaison with these two would not be good for any party.

Erisol is pretty childish, I don't even think we know her age. I'd also rather not have Geppa relapse or go through anything related to trauma. And needless to say Pendle also might have some trauma related to stuff the demon made him do to women.

Let's steer the conversation towards something a little more productive. Erisol, what was life like under the Czar? Let's know our enemy a little more.
>>
No. 1089361 ID: 8f9bc4

Princess Erisol unfortunately doesn't remember anything before The Spritenning. Have any thoughts on how everyone in the Czar's city is a sprite, Pendle? Almost seemed unintentional, like they were hastily scrambling to hide it. Also I forget Geppa, do you have a hyena's... y'know?
>>
No. 1089362 ID: 273c18

Great, alone with the two most unhinged female members in the base.

Talk to Dompag before attempting any romance with Geppa, and... well, Erisol's just kindof... weird, so you can use your own judgement there.
>>
No. 1089375 ID: 3f3d5c

Totally don't think about sexy nude girls hanging out in the bath with you while you are also naked. Totally, totally don't do that.
... In fact, why don't we think about something completely different while you're naked in the bath? Why not think about...

Wes?

For absolutely no reason whatsoever.
>>
No. 1089383 ID: eb0a9c

>>1089344
Pretend it's your sixth appendage.

Ask about Inzare Citta. How do sprites... make product?
>>
No. 1089389 ID: 82e021

>>1089383
Actually a good question, if not in the sense you intended. Ask how the city keeps functioning when everyone has been sprited. Surely there must be some kind of issues we could exploit.
>>
No. 1089402 ID: debc82

>>1089342

Two whole braincells and a whole lotta love. The Princess gets it.

Anyway, let's just chat, see how things have gone since we've been ... away.
>>
No. 1089404 ID: 46e818
File 171381364664.png - (12.99KB , 800x600 , 2156.png )
1089404

I always believed I had something of a dirty mind, prone to fantasy and lewdness. I frequently sought courtesans and other forms of pleasure for hire when I lived a bit more regally, before my time with Sun.
But I've been clean and sober here for not a half hour and I'm beset on all sides by innuendo. My doctor is trying to set me up with the man I nearly fought to the death. And the new voices in my head have a particular focus.

>"Hey quit blushin', we're just teasing. I'm not tryin' to make you uncomfortable. You know it's just funnin'!"
"Ha ha, yes, obviously." oh my dear me
>>
No. 1089406 ID: 46e818
File 171381375116.png - (10.60KB , 800x600 , 2157.png )
1089406

"Princess Erisol, ah... can you tell me about Tela Cruz? What was it like to have--"
>"Hey now, that's not you asking. If the voices want to ask me they can do it on their own time, not while we're trying to relax. You're not the middleman for us.
>Let's talk about you, instead! We barely even know the real you."
"Ah... well, yes, very well. What shall I talk about?"
>>
No. 1089407 ID: bc7d04

>>1089406
Let's hear about your childhood. You were a spider folk living on the Red Mesas were most people were more insect-type. Were you a stand out at all or are there others like you?
>>
No. 1089408 ID: 5d083d

Let's make Geppa laugh so she'll inhale sharply through her nose. It'll be funny.
Or get Erisol to show us some REAL bubbles using that magic of hers.
>>
No. 1089409 ID: ce619a

>>1089406
Let's talk about all the "courtesans and other forms of pleasure for hire" you were thinking about a second ago. That'll surely lighten the mood :D
>>
No. 1089410 ID: ea9c0a

What is your favorite story?
>>
No. 1089411 ID: 8f9bc4

Well that's not very nice of her, implying you're just parroting what we say like a puppet. But on the inconceivable chance you don't know this Pendle: you don't actually have to do what we say. Only talk about Tela Cruz if you yourself are interested in it.

But eh... this seems like Erisol is being evasive here. She's probably not comfortable talking about Tela Cruz (since she's a spy) and trying to deflect suspicion on us. So don't confront her on it or anything. Plenty of less personally impactful things to talk about.

Or do confront her, because again, you don't have to do anything we say!
>>
No. 1089414 ID: 8e4f60

>>1089406
What kind of women do you like? Short ones? Wild ones? Strange ones? Tell us more about your true self!
>>
No. 1089419 ID: 3f3d5c

I mean, I'd love to ask questions on our own time, but the tuning on this thing is shit. I guarantee if we try to hop over we'll land in like five different people first, two of which are the Boss.

Honestly, I got nothing, though.
Pendle, surely there's something you'd like to ask, right? You're a scholar, you haven't gotten to ask your own questions in a long time. Isn't there anything you'd like to know or talk about?
About Erisol? About... us?
Let it all out, buddy. We're all friends here.
>>
No. 1089424 ID: 7bd404

I told you guys, no horny. Now look what you've done.
>>
No. 1089427 ID: 2f41db

>>1089406
You know what P, the princess is right.
We wanna hear about what YOU want to talk about.
The shots are yours to call now.
If you're feeling a little choice paralysis, hum, whaddabout telling us what the most amazing thing you've ever seen was.
>>
No. 1089443 ID: eb0a9c

What the hell was up with the Demon, anyway? Why those specific women?
>>
No. 1089444 ID: 273c18

>>1089404
>the man I nearly fought to the death
He doesn't hold it against you. He's a good man.

Talk about your time in the courts! What was your job like before you got possessed?
>>
No. 1089462 ID: 7493dd

>>1089406
If you want sexy time, we got you.
If you want comfy time, we got you too.

All you need to do is tell.
>>
No. 1089470 ID: 46e818
File 171389772426.png - (14.36KB , 800x600 , 2158.png )
1089470

Yes, me. Let's see.
I was born Leonid Travask, as you now know. Born to a minor court, only child of two permissive but inattentive parents of lesser nobility. With privilege and little guidance, I confess I was a bit of a terror in my youth.

What started as a rebellious desire to provoke eventually grew into an obsession with the strange, the forgotten, and the arcane. In young adulthood, my studies on military tactics and logistics consumed me, but I pursued, in my free time, a passion for studying more arcane occult things.

It was in this way I eventually took notice of the notorious demonologist Kivas Sun. I left home to seek out Sun's tutelage.
>>
No. 1089472 ID: 46e818
File 171389799369.png - (12.75KB , 800x600 , 2159.png )
1089472

Sun and I traveled and even participated in the excavation and exploration -- with a team of more physically competent explorers of course -- of a small number of forgotten sites in the southern deserts. We recovered and studied artifacts and relics and tablets and records, a wondrous plethora of a world that passed before we were ever born. It fascinated me, and under expert guidance, I was led deeper and deeper, never hesitating, always trusting.

Of course, it was this same obsession that drove us to attempt to commune with occult forces directly. It never occurred to me we were truly in danger, not once suspecting Sun had taken us well out of our depths.
Only once the demon broke free did I realize the magnitude of our error, and -- well, you see how that all ended.
>>
No. 1089473 ID: ce619a

>>1089470
So uh... did you actually say any of that to Erisol or did you just think it?
Because as interesting to us as all that is, she was the one that wanted to know more about you.
>>
No. 1089483 ID: 05fc82

Maybe we can reconnect you with an old acquaintance?
>>
No. 1089487 ID: a044b5

>>1089483
If you're referring to Kivas Sun, she's more than likely dead, sorry.

But yeah, you should relate this to the two of them, just maybe use small words.
>>
No. 1089491 ID: 861ceb

any idea what happened to your old teacher after everything went pear shaped?
>>
No. 1089492 ID: eef602

i think you should just do some small talk with erisol, talk about random stuff that pops in your mind
>>
No. 1089495 ID: 273c18

>>1089472
Broke free, you say? Was the demon imprisoned in a jar or something, or did you mean you bound it after summoning it?
>>
No. 1089510 ID: 2f41db

>>1089472

Thankyou for sharing.
I hope your bathmates heard a version too.

It sounds like youd be hard pressed to pick a single amazing thing out of all of that.
>>
No. 1089618 ID: 46e818
File 171400086935.png - (29.03KB , 800x600 , 2160.png )
1089618

Yes, "broke free". Sun tried to perform a rite that would bind the demon to our service, but it fought back unexpectedly, and our runes of containment couldn't hold it.

It took over Sun, first, but it made me an offer:
It would leave Sun unharmed and take me instead.
I was desperate, confused, panicked in the moment. I accepted. Of course, it was a deception. My mentor did not survive.

And so began my lost year.
My long nightmare, from which I only now begin to wake.
>>
No. 1089619 ID: 46e818
File 171400088531.png - (27.93KB , 800x600 , 2161.png )
1089619

>"Hey. Excuse me. Hi."
>>
No. 1089620 ID: 46e818
File 171400098705.png - (13.72KB , 800x600 , 2162.png )
1089620

>"Hi. Sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt. But uh...
>I can't hear you. You gotta talk out loud. With your mouth."

"Oh. Ha ha. Yes, right -- it's been so long since I was able to have a conversation that wasn't in my head. I suppose I have to re-learn a few things. My apologies.
Well, I was born Leonid Travask..."
>>
No. 1089621 ID: ce619a

>>1089620
Wait,
>it's been so long since I was able to have a conversation that wasn't in my head
So, you were able to talk to the demon while it was possessing you? Did it have anything interesting to say or was it all generic mustache-twirling villain taunts and threats?
>>
No. 1089635 ID: 8f9bc4

We should visit someone else. Pendle doesn't need us distracting him while he's reconnecting with his new friends.
>>
No. 1089636 ID: 2f41db

>>1089620
Lets leave him be fragments.

He's talking, smiling and maybe healing a little too.

The things he may have heard during his year are important but not urgent compared to his recovery.

Theres others to check in on or maybe warn Big M about his pending guest.
>>
No. 1089650 ID: fdd26b

Alright who else to bug, any other bugs to bug?
>>
No. 1089652 ID: eb0a9c

Aaand... scene change to our captured Princess!
>>
No. 1089653 ID: eb0a9c

Aaand... scene change to our captured Princess!
>>
No. 1089750 ID: 46e818
File 171416210948.png - (8.04KB , 800x600 , 2163.png )
1089750

Ah, what timing. Debriefing is finished and I was just about to open this courier mail we were sent.
>>
No. 1089751 ID: 46e818
File 171416213743.png - (9.23KB , 800x600 , 2164.png )
1089751

Ah, that will do it.
>>
No. 1089752 ID: 46e818
File 171416274952.png - (22.06KB , 800x600 , 2165.png )
1089752

Now let's see.

The writer of the missive introduces himself as Morphyl Rabas -- socialite, botanist, gourmet, among other things.
He has heard of me, and wishes to meet me personally. He is en route to the Vault -- with gifts, he says. He makes no direct demands, but clearly expects to be entertained as a guest.

Well, it is not uncommon to entertain important guests, I suppose. I have seen it done commonly enough in court.
>>
No. 1089753 ID: 0db2a6

>>1089752
Ask cutie snooty if she's heard of Morphyl Rabas
then give her butt a soft pinch
>>
No. 1089754 ID: 003778

>>1089752
Nice.

Alrighty, back to the matter at hand. Does the name sound familiar at all? Sounds like we have a party to plan.
>>
No. 1089755 ID: 3f3d5c

It's a pretty typical thing for nobility. He's probably coming to scope the place out, see what you're up to, and get in on the ground floor with someone who's clearly going places. Forging alliances, y'know.
He sounds pretty jovial. The fact he's bringing gifts reflects well on him. I'm not getting any danger signals on this end, but it'd be a good idea to treat him well regardless.

Do we have a guest room? We should probably make a place for him to stay while he's here, since we don't really know how long this'll go.
Who's the best cook on staff, for that matter? Would be good to prep a meal while we're at it.
>>
No. 1089756 ID: eb0a9c

>>1089753
Dude, Ash has swords for feet, you're going to get Muschio stabbed.

I already don't trust that guy, but you should give him a chance. He seems to be of the same lifepath as you; building up a settlement into a nation within a lifetime. There might be a way to begin trading.
>>
No. 1089761 ID: 7f8d92

>>1089752
Alas, Finesse got left out, what a shame.
>>
No. 1089763 ID: 273c18

>>1089752
It's probably going to be a Sprite, sent as a spy.
>>
No. 1089764 ID: ea9c0a

Uhhh boss you sure you want to get to business right away? Ash looks a little unimpressed. Like I'm sure you've seen to things satisfactorily but maybe she was expecting a little more non-physical attention. I know you're not a romantic sort but like a little comfortable fellowship maybe?

Anyway a guest! The first one after your refurbishing of the place! You need to get in some good furniture. Probably want to see to there being a guest room, too. Suitable supplies to show hospitality. The place is still a little heavy on functionality by the standards of this sort of thing, you know?
>>
No. 1089765 ID: 7f8d92

>>1089764
True this, not very princely to just finish and walk away. Cuddle a little if she wants to.
>>
No. 1089794 ID: 53560f

Does it say how long he’ll be staying? I hope we have room to house them. Important people usually have an entourage too so we’ll need to accomodate them too.
>>
No. 1089822 ID: ebae20

>>1089752
Had to work off all that love, huh?
>>
No. 1089826 ID: 2f41db

>>1089751
That was quite possibly the most erotic thing ive seen in my life.
>>
No. 1089828 ID: 2f41db

>>1089753
Cutey snooty's ample booty?
>>
No. 1089836 ID: 8f9bc4

Hopefully 'gourmet' doesn't include volto, kobold, goblin, or that latias you're sleeping with, on the menu. Regardless, not in a position to satisfy a fine diner's palette, so any guest accomodations should emphasize comfort over food, until we have some idea what to serve Mr. Rabas.

...if he's a dragon, he won't fit in the door. Which reminds me, how vehemently did you thank that dragoness for helping you er, defeat the demon?
>>
No. 1089855 ID: 05fc82

I just had a brilliant idea! We can gift the remaining houndsgall to Rabas! As a botanist, he is sure to be delight at receiving a very rare plant. We just have to make sure we can trust him first, as we are giving him what is essentially super poison for our boss(also make sure he isn't a volto himself.)
>>
No. 1089890 ID: 46e818
File 171427560603.png - (8.83KB , 800x600 , 2166.png )
1089890

Yes, you raise good points. A guest room and some aesthetic renovations to the Vault would be a welcome change. With the Odds empowered as they are, it should be simple enough to manage within a few days.

To think, we're prestigious and recognize enough to be attracting guests. This in the wake of our success in the Timore Woodlands, the exorcism of Mr. Khaneh... Not to mention a broad alliance of force and a promise of our own loyal troops! We'll have to hire more officers soon.

After so much hard work, it'll be nice to recoup for a while, get some well deserved rest, and calm down.
For the first time in a while, I have a good feeling about the days to come.
>>
No. 1089891 ID: 46e818
File 171427575203.png - (6.74KB , 800x600 , 2167.png )
1089891

>>
No. 1089893 ID: ce619a

Oh sure.
We've already had a demon, so why not the undead now, too.
I wonder what Muschio thinks about ghosts.
>>
No. 1089918 ID: 7493dd

>>1089890
Optimism has never been your calling card Boss, Readiness will win us the day.
>>
No. 1089921 ID: 033a6e

>>1089890
Yes, yes, calm down...now pay some attention to the lady, will ya?
>>
No. 1089946 ID: 46e818
File 171435689034.png - (10.98KB , 800x600 , 2168.png )
1089946

"It seems a good priority would be to reorganize the base, introduce a new room or two, perhaps some halls."

>"Oh, don't forget about the y-axis."
"The what?"
>"What I mean is, the world is not a flat field. You could always build extra floors above and below."
"Ah, good point. Though there are certainly some areas I would like to avoid stairs where possible -- anything that would see frequent hauling and freight might as well be on the same floor, to avoid accidents, as well as probably not wanting stairs out of the baths, for slips."
>>
No. 1089949 ID: 46e818
File 171435816290.png - (11.29KB , 800x600 , 2169.png )
1089949

Here... I believe this is a somewhat abstracted approximation of the Vault's current floorplan.

Bear in mind: The empowered nature of this mountain has allowed us to shuffle rooms about as through magic. Simply moving one room to another spot, or redrawing the passages between them, would only take a day or two, and not require re-carving the entire shape of it. Truly convenient.
I believe this is what happened when Ms. N'poa... took the initiative to build new indoor baths, now wedged between two other rooms. We'll want a better location for those at some point, as well as a guest room.

A basement level or second floor would be easily feasible too.


I was thinking some kind of antechamber might be nice, so we don't have the front door open up straight into our dining hall for anyone coming in. Especially as we don't have a war room yet and have to do most of our strategic planning in that room, too.

I also feel the current layout is perhaps too much about adjacent rooms with joining doors. There are almost no hallways to speak of! Very un-fortress-like. It might be easier to get around if you didn't have to pass through every single room to get to the next.

Well, if anyone has any ideas or experience designing fortresses, I would love to hear it. I feel this is a bit outside my proverbial wheelhouse at this scale.
>>
No. 1089950 ID: 3cd5c3

>>1089949
Besides guest bedrooms for the upcoming visitor, make a connection between the Communal Barracks to the New Baths, a kitchen next to the Dining Hall for convenience and storing foods, also an emergency exit would be a great idea in case of attacks, a basement to store cursed and magic items, and finally a Training Room for the muscles of the Vault (Dompag and Ashedel)
>>
No. 1089959 ID: fe12b4
File 171436331207.png - (13.23KB , 800x600 , new layout.png )
1089959

here's my suggestion for a reorganization and some minor additions. The big thing I wanna do is add some security, so the throne room and barracks both now have some extra gating.

Orange denotes "second floor" structures, I've removed the connection between the forge and dining hall in favor of a direct raised-hall that connects to the barracks. This is because freight can be just as easily be moved through the workshops, and I suspect we'll want to have a storage area connected to both eventually. I don't know how much more space we're gonna need yet, our needs aren't... fully clear? It's been a while. It also limits us to just one doorway to guard if someone tries to rob us of important tools or materials.

Of note: I've added a balcony to the dining hall, mostly for security but it WILL also add a nice sense of opulence. If we have any important guests, it'll be nice to have some high-ground, both for their sense of security and our own.

Similarly, I've added second-floor guest rooms to the barracks area, requiring them to pass through the entire barracks main while also having them up a staircase from everyone.

Also, a larder/food storage area connected directly to the dining hall. Sieges happen, we should be at least somewhat prepared for that.

I've also added a direct hallway to the baths since requiring everyone with some stink on 'em to pass through Ash's room seems somewhat silly, unless there was a reason for that I'm forgetting
>>
No. 1089963 ID: eb0a9c

Muschio, we've seen things. You had memory problems at times, usually because the magical overloads caused your brain to shut down. But we saw, and we learned.

First up: Second floor as a maintenance area. You'll want to carve out the whole thing, and then we can place pipes and light machinery in the future. But it can be used for so much more. See, there's this branch of science that we discovered - we'll call it The Wired. Long story short, it can make or break empires - but that's a problem for your far-future descendants. What they will need, however, is a giant, well-ventilated, moisture-controlled room to put all their medium-weight 'artifacts' in. For now, you can use the maintenance area as a means of transporting water and air into rooms as needed; carve out evenly-spaced holes in a hexagonal format, and place grates on top. we can then place pipelines at will, or get the drop on anyone invading our fortress from the front gates. You can also place small, easily-managed turrets for archer defenses in the future. Have the staircase placed in the dining room for now, and we can work on building a proper Lobby later to act as the central hub of our operations.

You need to space out your sectors. The West Wing should be further left to prepare for future recruitment. You also need to swap the cells with your room, as it doesn't really make sense right now.

Lastly, add a Science/Arcana room. This will solidify the east wing as your R&D sector.
>>
No. 1089964 ID: 2f41db

>>1089946
Remember the rule with stairs big m.
Spiral for aesthetics and defense.
Clockwise if youre defending vs ascenders
Counter clockwise if vs descenders.
Really fucks with right handed fighters.
Limits their ability to swing.
Unless your defenders are lefties then, well. Shit.
>>
No. 1089968 ID: ce619a
File 171436860933.png - (77.14KB , 3200x1120 , many vault ideas.png )
1089968

>>1089947
Well, first off, all your officers deserve their own private quarters should they desire so. The guest quarters can be a follow up; Our people should take priority after all. And at least 3 guest rooms for now in case our impending guest brings an entourage.
While we're at it, try to relocated Ona's sigil to the throne room. Might make a nice backdrop for the throne.

After that, we need a dedicated infirmary. Perhaps had we had one before Pendle wouldn't be in such rough shape. Best futureproof the base and make one now. Especially with a guest in route in case the worst happens.

After that everything else can wait, but it would be good to plan some other rooms we don't have: Like a kitchen, armory, treasury, library, rec room, corridors for future expansion, etc.
Another consideration is that some stairs could be substituted or supplemented with freight elevators to ease the burden of carrying supplies between floors.
(Also toilets? I don't know how far you want the logistics of the base to be planned out, but I'll throw those in here as well)

I think I got carried away lol
>>
No. 1089973 ID: 53560f

Consider the following: a large central lift.
If it’s made primarily with rope, then we can put the non-defending personnel’s rooms, their workshops and valuable warehouses up on the highest floor and they may cut the lift to block off invaders reaching them too fast or even fire down on the lift as invaders come up.
Not saying to avoid stairs entirely, just that it would be a convenient infrastructure and defensive option.
>>
No. 1089985 ID: a81eaa

it looks like all th' other voices have got structure covered perfectly well, so i'm here t' pipe in about those aesthetic changes!

might i recommend something more on the gothic side, to show off our grace yet dark and threatening nature? perhaps something similar to a cathedral- underground places of worship are not uncommon, i'm sure we can find a reference or two -t' fit with our theme of power and that whole "becoming th' devil" thing. maybe we wanna look at tall curved ceilings- as much as our mountain can contain, at least -with a surplus of columns, and some decorative carvings in the wall and fixtures? we don't really have an opportunity for grand windows or th' likes, so we've gotta make do.

we've gotta be wary of cave-ins too, hence my suggestion of pillars, and maybe reinforce th' ceilings?

we could also do with a theme colour- i'm thinkin' wine red, t' match with your coat and the regality thing, plus any blood that is shed would blend in pretty easily.

can't help but agree with th' others, particularly in terms of a proper infirmary and arcana room- maybe th' latter in a basement, to hopefully avoid any dangerous magic spills from getting t' the busy areas?

on a separate note, we haven't heard from wes in a while- how's our favourite leg-breaker faring?
>>
No. 1089986 ID: a81eaa

it looks like all th' other voices have got structure covered perfectly well, so i'm here t' pipe in about those aesthetic changes!

might i recommend something more on the gothic side, to show off our grace yet dark and threatening nature? perhaps something similar to a cathedral- underground places of worship are not uncommon, i'm sure we can find a reference or two -t' fit with our theme of power and that whole "becoming th' devil" thing. maybe we wanna look at tall curved ceilings- as much as our mountain can contain, at least -with a surplus of columns, and some decorative carvings in the wall and fixtures? we don't really have an opportunity for grand windows or th' likes, so we've gotta make do.

we've gotta be wary of cave-ins too, hence my suggestion of pillars, and maybe reinforce th' ceilings?

we could also do with a theme colour- i'm thinkin' wine red, t' match with your coat and the regality thing, plus any blood that is shed would blend in pretty easily.

can't help but agree with th' others, particularly in terms of a proper infirmary and arcana room- maybe th' latter in a basement, to hopefully avoid any dangerous magic spills from getting t' the busy areas?

on a separate note, we haven't heard from wes in a while- how's our favourite leg-breaker faring?
>>
No. 1090006 ID: 5d083d
File 171441118674.png - (81.16KB , 800x600 , layout.png )
1090006

>>1089949
All in all I think it's nicer to preserve the communal layout of the rooms and such. It makes for cozier living. But here are my two cents.

Above, in red.
A room above the gate and guardhouses with a few murder holes you can drop nasty things from. A chimney in the ceiling of the grand entrance so you can vent smoke if you decide to burn something in there to drive off attackers. And from there, a long corridor that runs parallel with the outer face of the mountain with some discreet peepholes so you're not blind in there.

Main floor, in black.
Some storage for the workshops with a separate access hallway so you don't have to barge past Babrakus, Tislomer or Wes to load it up.
A kitchen and larder.
No idea what those things on the left are.

Below, in blue.
A secret exit to get out of dodge if you have. Hide the hatch under a rug and put something that will make a loud, distinct noise if toppled on top of that rug so you'll hear and know if someone tries to sneak in using it
>>
No. 1090007 ID: eb0a9c

>>1089968
+1 but don't forget a sub-level for ventilation shafts
>>
No. 1090028 ID: 3f3f77

>>1090007
Ensure ventilation shafts are designed in a way to prevent people using them as a secret passage around the base.
>>
No. 1090034 ID: f63e9f

We need a trap door that leads to the torture chamber….we’re also going to need a torture chamber.
>>
No. 1090037 ID: 7493dd

>>1089946
We really must take advantage of our location. It's a mountain, after all. Lets built that lift to the top!

>>1089968
Excellent lay out, We really need to consider our *ahem* future honored guests.

We need to consider building a hangar in order to build large vehicles, maybe our own zeppelin/airship.
>>
No. 1090050 ID: 64faaa

>>1089968
Sounds good, but maybe make it so that the officer or barracks rooms are between your room & the entrance or guest rooms. Or at the very least, have them closer than the entrance or quest rooms.

>>1090006
I think the hallway with peep-holes, & murder-hole & chimney on the entrance hall make sense. Make sure the peep-holes aren't too easy for people to turn into entrances, or smoke you out with.
Also, the secret exit is a great idea. In addition to hiding/trapping the near end of it, you also wanna hide the far end of it so people can't lay an ambush.
>>
No. 1090052 ID: ce619a

>>1090050
>but maybe make it so that the officer or barracks rooms are between your room & the entrance or guest rooms.
It's not a great idea to have sleeping areas as a shield as that will mean unnecessary losses if we get suddenly invaded again. Sleeping minions are not great guards.
Once we get an influx of troops we can have some stationed in/around the entrance. The barracks are also close enough for the bulk of our forces to quickly respond to threats.
>>
No. 1090053 ID: 3f3d5c

>>1090006
As hilarious as the idea of this is, I think I'm gonna do a veto on putting one of the peepholes in the baths.
>>
No. 1090056 ID: ea9c0a

Dungeons downstairs to make it harder to escape, places you want to be defensible upstairs so it's harder for invaders to go up. Bedrooms and such. You probably want to add some proper kitchens and a supply room both to have food for staff and guests close to hand and take advantage of the cool conditions inside, and to have a reserve in case of siege. Think about where you want your water to be stored and where it flows, for a basic form of plumbing. Maybe think of making one really tall spiral staircase somewhere to come out somewhere high on the mountain, as a viewing spot and/or secret escape passage? Would also help as ventilation.
>>
No. 1090060 ID: eb0a9c

>>1090050
We have a magic-saturated mountain. Let's pre-program the Vault to automatically set the secret exit to a random location every week! Disguised exit will be about two feet of solid dirt that has to be manually removed via shovels in the exit room.
>>
No. 1090091 ID: 5d083d

It just occurred to me that this whole discussion might have been more suited for the discussion thread.
>>
No. 1090158 ID: 8f3bf1

We should see if Ashe is up for another round.
>>
No. 1090164 ID: 9f01b5

>>1090158
I'd be fine with another round, but more than that, i'm still of the belief we just need some aftercare skinship. See if she wants to cuddle, that is.
>>
No. 1090166 ID: d4d22b

Forget the bird, it's architecture time. Add an aviary if you're that worked up over bussy (bird pussy)
>>
No. 1090170 ID: 5d9416

>>1090166
Architecture will still be there in a day, but the girl will have left the bed by then.
>>
No. 1090216 ID: 588a9b

>>1090164
One thing can lead to another.
>>
No. 1090445 ID: 46e818
File 171503698289.png - (15.35KB , 800x600 , 2170.png )
1090445

Hello, yes!

After a well-deserved (and, for a change, uninterrupted) night of rest for the whole Vault and hours of planning, I present the current floorplan!

Areas in gray are planned, but not yet built. Red goes to a lower floor, blue to a higher floor.

There are stairwells up around the grand entrance leading to an indoor battlement -- not pictured here -- which will help in potential defense.

My own room has been moved to be adjacent to the throne room, on a lower level, which should give me space for any future enrichments I may require.
>>
No. 1090446 ID: 46e818
File 171503713148.png - (18.29KB , 800x600 , 2171.png )
1090446

The biggest change is perhaps the division of the base through a number of hallways, making travel easier without walking through someone's sleeping or working space.

In this area, up here, you'll see the rooms for my officers have been slightly shuffled and rearranged. A few have been rotated, and the baths have been moved to the end of the hall for a bit of privacy. Ashedel and Finesse now have their doors open to the hall rather than exiting directly into the communal barracks.
>>
No. 1090447 ID: 46e818
File 171503720683.png - (7.35KB , 800x600 , 2172.png )
1090447

This is the brand new guard post! It's still under development and so it's quite empty. It connects the barracks to the meeting hall, offering both quick access and security to the areas where guests and residents will most often find themselves.
>>
No. 1090448 ID: 46e818
File 171503739590.png - (7.40KB , 800x600 , 2173.png )
1090448

And this is the unfinished Great Hall, which you may have noticed is now the first room visitors will enter into. A grand first impression! I expect to decorate this lavishly, and let it serve as both a place to meet and socialize, as well as a central hub to the main arteries of thoroughfare.

It connects to hallways leading into the East and West wing of the Vault, as well as to the Dining Hall, which used to occupy this space and has been bumped Northward.

To the West you will notice excavation has also begun on a passage down to what will be the lower floor, where the Dungeon cells will be relocated and expanded.

A much more organized future awaits us!
>>
No. 1090449 ID: 73dc87

>>1090445
Is the red room with a down arrow the stairway to the cells?
>>
No. 1090450 ID: 84117e

>>1090448
Well, guess we're never finding out what he did with the birdgirl after that.
>>
No. 1090452 ID: 2f41db

>>1090448
You know you need to pose for an enormous, intimidating statue now, right?
>>
No. 1090454 ID: 3f3d5c

Looks great, boss. I'm especially looking forward to decorating the great hall. Showing off your wealth and taste in decor is always the best part. Get some feng shui going on, maybe a nice statue-

>>1090452
Heck yeah! We'll put it right in the middle, so everyone can see right as they walk in.

...

Anyway, about that guest room... I assume they're going to be on one of the other floors, now? That's a good call. I think it'd be good if they had to walk a bit before actually being able to leave. For... reasons.
>>
No. 1090455 ID: ce619a

>>1090448
So how does your room go down? Is the junction between the two rooms a stairwell, or is it a ramp/staircase down?

Also, nice idea with the north/south hallway along the barracks to lessen traffic through it.
We could still use a dedicated infirmary, though. After everything Ona's been through letting her have her own workspace would be a nice reward, too.

>>1090450
Rest assured that many feathers were ruffled
>>
No. 1090476 ID: c2a27a

So, find anything neat while you were clearing out all the space, or just more ore and magic crystals and whatnot?

Also I'm a little concerned about the roof caving in and/or running out of space but these are problems with relatively easy solutions should we run into them.
>>
No. 1090502 ID: 46e818
File 171511444545.png - (7.42KB , 800x600 , 2174.png )
1090502

>"Master Muschio, please come quickly. We've discovered something on the lower level."

"Oh no, what now?"
>>
No. 1090503 ID: 46e818
File 171511456704.png - (9.84KB , 800x600 , 2175.png )
1090503

>"We noticed this almost immediately -- the Odds have breached an existing chamber while excavating. It doesn't appear natural.
>We've already tested the air, first with a torch. It seems breathable, but the space beyond is too deep to see much through without entering. All we can really make out is black pillars of some kind."
>>
No. 1090505 ID: 273c18

Ah, it seems we've found the reason why this mountain amplifies magic. Or evidence of someone else who utilized that aspect. Let's make a bigger hole so we can send an expedition through.

...or should we wait until after the visit?
>>
No. 1090509 ID: eb0a9c

>Black Pillars
Uh oh.
We don't have any drones. Set up a doorway, but rig it to blow.

Also, for future reference: ore does not 'replenish' itself, you either dig for more or you let the natural processes of the cave dig for you. Once you run out, you need to recycle what you have.
>>
No. 1090510 ID: ce619a

>>1090503
The realistic option would be to seal that shit up, nix the plans of having lower levels to the base and forget about tunneling any deeper...

but we all know we're going to explore that shit.
le sigh
Be prepared for more demons, invaders, ghosts, etc with whatever seals/sigils/spells we need to protect ourselves from those kinds of things.
Check if we can ward a denling from that kind of crap, do it we can, then send it down. Attached to a rope if possible.

On that topic, we need more mannikins in general. We should check with the tribes or red mesa if they have any we could trade for.
>>
No. 1090512 ID: 693f6f

>>1090503
Prepare an expedition!
>>
No. 1090513 ID: 2bacbe

Any idea on how big the room is? I guess it's gotta be big to have pillars in it.

If it's small enough to conceivably scout out, would it possible to send someone in as a single scout, maybe with some invisibility potions from Tislomer? She can still brew something like that up right?

Alternatively if it's a huge cavern I say wait until you can get some sort of expeditionary force to investigate.

Either way we shouldn't just leave it alone.
>>
No. 1090514 ID: eef602

fuck danger, EXPLORE THE CAVERN!
...with the proper safety equipment first at least.
>>
No. 1090515 ID: ea9c0a

Better take a look. Carefully. Be prepared to close it back up again solidly, and in a hurry.
>>
No. 1090517 ID: 2f41db

>>1090503
No one goes in alone, big M.
No one goes in without two people posted guarding the hole.

This is a magic mountain as you well know.
Any nastiness that could be lurking will be amplified.

Ask pendle for advice as hes got experience in archeological endevours though dont ask him to go in.
Light duties for the man. He had a rough time.
>>
No. 1090549 ID: 7493dd

>>1090503
Hey look The Fire Exit, I was wondering where it was.
>>
No. 1090579 ID: 46e818
File 171519443614.png - (9.25KB , 800x600 , 2176.png )
1090579

There is certainly something ominous about a black, sealed room surrounded on all sides by solid stone.

I have opted to send one of my two Denlings, Logos, in with a light to scout the area.
"Do what you can, but if there is danger, retreat. There's no reason to risk your life over this."
>"Sir! I will report back on my findings within three minutes!"
>>
No. 1090580 ID: 46e818
File 171519446139.png - (7.52KB , 800x600 , 2177.png )
1090580

A long silence passes, and all I can see is the faint glint of dancing light on smooth stone.
>>
No. 1090582 ID: 46e818
File 171519464280.png - (8.99KB , 800x600 , 2178.png )
1090582

Finally, Logos returns, seemingly unbothered.

>"Sir! The chamber is smaller than assumed. I would estimate it to be the size of one of the currently excavated bedrooms.
>No living beings or other dangers I could find are inside.
>The room is mostly bare except for seven pedestals of black stone, each bearing a distinct figure which I believe are statuettes. I am no expert on the matter but I it may be some kind of religious site. Sir!"
>>
No. 1090583 ID: d9cb04

>>1090582
Let's investigate and catalogue what we find, it may be a forgotten chamber that Red Fang used for his corrupted worship of Mr. Lollipop. If it is I say we destroy it.
>>
No. 1090584 ID: 987fcf

Alright, widen up the door if you can and get in there with Pendle. Also maybe bring Ash just in case you set off some bizarre magical trap.
>>
No. 1090585 ID: 5d083d

Get Ona, Pendle and Erisol over here for spirits, religion and magic knowledge.
Don't go barging in before you get a good feel for this room.
>>
No. 1090588 ID: eb0a9c

Okay whatever
Block it up and let's excavate in other directions for even more treasures!
>>
No. 1090591 ID: ce619a

>>1090582
Ah.
It's Redfang's old prayer altar. I believe the Seer showed us a glimpse of it before.
https://questden.org/kusaba/questarch/res/1082380.html#1083066
Did the denling find any other doors or portals that could explain how Redfang could get in and out of this place?

Either way, excavate a proper entrance and let's have Ona, Erisol and Pendle carefully check it for lingering magic/runes/bad juju.
AND WHATEVER YOU DO, DON'T DAMAGE THE IDOLS
>>
No. 1090601 ID: ce619a

Also, hey-
Are the denlings alright?
Previously, the odds gave the impression that the mannikin monsters were semi-mindless automatons, but that's obviously not the case with how lively Embraddeus has been.
So, are these little guys doing good? They lost one of their number awhile back and this guy doesn't look quite as "focused" as the denlings normally do.
Do they ever get any time off or rest? Are we working them too hard?
>>
No. 1090638 ID: 46e818
File 171528345969.png - (17.91KB , 800x600 , 2179.png )
1090638

Very well. I order the Odds to expand the entrance to comfortably enter without crawling, and seek out Pendle.

"Good morning."
>"Ah, good morning, Prince."
"How are you feeling?"
>"The pain is quite unlike anything I have felt, and it will be some time before I am adjusted to my damaged body, but the residents have been encouraging and patient, especially for all I have put them through.
>For want of distraction, I am eager to return to my work. Have you come about the research you assigned? I have found a few things in my readings you may wish to know already, if you have a few minutes."
>>
No. 1090639 ID: 7f14ef

>>1090638
Sign the blackboard while you talk
>>
No. 1090640 ID: ce619a

Hear out what's he's found then inform him of the newfound room and our need of his expertise identifying the objects in it.
Again, it would be wise to have some kind of magic expert along as well to check the place for lingering magic.

And do we have any trap experts? Someone that can spot and disarm traps better than average? Because that might be a good thing to look out for. I could see Redfang being an even bigger dick and trapping his prayer room.
>>
No. 1090648 ID: c2a27a

Get the lowdown downlow from P-diddy

also mark your territory on the blackboard
>>
No. 1090649 ID: 273c18

Does he want more pain meds? Can't get him addicted, but surely there's some reasonable regimen.
>>
No. 1090659 ID: 3f3d5c

>>1090639
There's a spot right under Ashedel. Make sure to make it flowery, boss! It shows that you put effort in.
>>
No. 1090660 ID: 2f41db

>>1090638
Hes a trooper.
Pick his brain on the research then invite his company or expert opinion on the new excavation.
>>1090639
Sign that board.
You have to do this.
Its the very least you can do
>>
No. 1090661 ID: eb0a9c

Work on inventing the 'camera'.
[Insert description of camera, from chemical flash to light reflecting off object to the lens where it is analog-captured on a slab of chemical paper that changes color if it comes into contact with extreme light.]
>>
No. 1090695 ID: 7493dd

>>1090582
Need our scholar and witch doctor to check this out ASAP
>>
No. 1090696 ID: 46e818
File 171537373965.png - (17.23KB , 800x600 , 2180.png )
1090696

I sign my name grandly. Pendle deserves a bit of appreciation after all he's been through, of course.

>"First, if I may, I should cover the basics of totem gods."
"Go on."
>"Well, a god, technically speaking, is simply a very powerful being, typically but not necessarily immortal -- one whose abilities so far exceed that of mortals that they seem to break our understanding of natural laws. They exist, make themselves known to mortals, and are worshipped for protection, mercy, boons, and so on. Very simple stuff so far."
>>
No. 1090697 ID: 46e818
File 171537376469.png - (14.32KB , 800x600 , 2181.png )
1090697

>"However, while a typical god exists, and is then worshipped, a totem god is a being that is worshipped, and then exists. As we understand it, the power of mass worship essentially creates a new entity.
>That thing being worshipped could be an idea, an imagined creature or person, a local ancestor, a memory, a place, even an emotion. For example, a tribe which discovers a very large old tree that looks particularly ominous might revere it as being inhabited by a spirit. Even if the tree is completely mundane, generations of veneration could imbue it with such tangible power that it becomes what they believe it to be, and so a totem god is born.

>Now, as their existence is fueled by belief, their power grows and wanes based on that belief. A god who receives ever-growing worship may become extremely powerful indeed. Whereas a god whose influence has waned or whose followers have been conquered may shrivel, and even disappear.

>There is some debate among religious scholars, of what exactly happens to a totem god who disappears this way. Do they "die"? Can such a being truly die? Do they simply lie dormant, waiting for the day they might once again be revered? If such a god were to re-emerge, would it really be the same being, reawakened? Or would it just be a new entity that believes it is the old one? It's not exactly a field easily studied."
>>
No. 1090698 ID: 46e818
File 171537377239.png - (19.30KB , 800x600 , 2182.png )
1090698

>"Which brings me to the amulet, that source of much mystery.
>The name "Algotsfilvris" yielded nothing much, but there is essentially no written kobold language. The "Shield of Comose", however, was quite a lead. I found a loose trail of similar designs with no attribution. I'm working on early theories, but I believe all these sigils are simply local or generational variants on the same entity.

>The being we're dealing with was once called "Odu Rumux" in an old goblin tongue I'm not so familiar with, which I can only translate as "a speaking body", or perhaps "the body that speaks".
>There's very little hard record here, but I see evidence of worship across goblins, kobolds, ogres, orcs, all manner of species. Nothing recent though, nothing I can find, at least."
>>
No. 1090700 ID: ce619a

>>1090698
This was apparently a god of "protection of the ugly", so all those races worshiping it tracks.
Might explain why the czar turned a whole city of people into sprites; an "ugly," easily influenced people that could be convinced to worship this totem. Either so the czar can be it's right hand man or perhaps claim to be this god himself and let the worship empower him.

Ask Pendle if that's even possible.
>>
No. 1090701 ID: c2a27a

Well, with a name we can start asking questions. You should probably ask Moira if any of her people know anything about Odu Rumux, and also ask the local goblins. Maybe one of them is old enough to recognize the name.

But first, you should grab Pendle and your other magically inclined friends and check out the cave.
>>
No. 1090702 ID: 80c73b

>>1090700
I was wondering a related thing - what happens to the king of a large enough group of people? Is he affected by their beliefs? If he does a good job (or good PR) and his people believe him kind, wise, strong, infallible, does he become unnaturally moreso?
>>
No. 1090703 ID: eb0a9c

>>1090697
Is such a being technically sapient or are they the aggregate sentience of a generalized algorithmic average?

Mmmoving on!

>>1090698
Hm. What if we simply made our own interpretation?
I don't like rewriting scripture, but it doesn't stop the fact that such gods require updates. Especially after what we saw among the Orcish elite.
Let's make this an open-source discussion among our lands. If this kingdom is going to be ruled by a god, it had better be the kingdom's god, not yours, not ours, and not any one faction's.
>>
No. 1090705 ID: 2f41db

>>1090697
Shaped by belief, but it sounds glacially slow.
Measured in generational faith.

This trait, if it is indeed a thing you wish to control, doesnt strike me as something you will live long enough to see.

If you choose to enact a plan to shape a god, you'll metaphorically be planting trees that even your grandchildren will be waiting to see fruit.

A truly long lived species may have a perspective on this.
Perhaps itll be a good topic for pillow talk with the magnificent sadie.
>>
No. 1090707 ID: ce619a

>>1090702
Most likely not...

not without the use of some kind of item of power that could allow such a thing to happen. Something like a physical totem or idol, like maybe that amulet.

All assumptions, but it's something to go off as we move forward.
>>
No. 1090708 ID: eb0a9c

>>1090702
Well, it would depend on the number of followers and the rate of worship required to turn a mortal into a god.
However, turning a royal lineage literally part-divine over generations? That's... scary.
Can we... not do that? Please?
>>
No. 1090711 ID: debc82

>>1090698

Would it be possible to widen the entrance to the mysterious pillar-chamber and let Pendle here have a look?

I'm thinking it might prove enlightening; either to our current search regarding the amulet, or perhaps our new benefactor in Mr. Lollypop.
>>
No. 1090712 ID: 7493dd

>>1090698
old goblin tongue?
Better ask Finnie about that. Maybe make an evening out of it Boss.

Some fine wine, cold cuts and cheese. Ideal for a long conversation.
>>
No. 1090791 ID: b11d2d

>>1090712
I would say "visit the goblin village and make use of their collected knowledge", but they might need some time to rest after their mass hysteria/orgy thing.
Besides, Finnie seems like the nerdiest of them all, so asking just her might be enough.

>>1090698
What I'm wondering, though: Pendle, do any of those worshippers trace back to Czar Bomba's region? As in, did he dig it up from a local area, or did he come into possession of this relic during an expedition, a journey or a conquest?
>>
No. 1090798 ID: b85b90

Is this run by the original Weaver from /tg/? I'm a tourist, sorry for the ignorance.

If so, I wanted to drop a line that Ruby and Tom from Rubyquest were nominated for /qst/'s King and Queen of /qst/ contest. Ruby lost out in the highly competitive qualification round, but Tom made it through qualifiers and is about to compete in the official King Contest as soon as that gets posted (complete with commissioned art from one of our drawfags).

It's been a long time since you ran on 4chan, but the questing community there still has a lot of respect and admiration for you, and new quests visibly inspired by Rubyquest still pop up fairly often. Thanks for everything.
>>
No. 1090802 ID: ce619a

>>1090791
>As in, did he dig it up from a local area, or did he come into possession of this relic during an expedition, a journey or a conquest?

The Czar never had it. He wanted to kill us for it. We found it in Redfang's possession, who was probably randomly worshiping it like all the other gods.
>>
No. 1090812 ID: c8fb89

New plan. Become a god. Dragons are attracted to power, and gods are powerful, ergo a dragon would be attracted to a god.
>>
No. 1090833 ID: 5c1847

>>1090798
https://questden.org/kusaba/questdis/res/4059.html
>Discussion board
>>
No. 1090834 ID: 5c1847

>>1090791
Gotta take into account that she may be older than anyone in the village (Or the village itself).
>>
No. 1090944 ID: 46e818
File 171570469713.png - (10.16KB , 800x600 , 2183.png )
1090944

"I could ask Finesse for her insight."
>"If you like. It's an archaic old tongue, so I doubt she'd know, but it couldn't hurt to ask."

"Well, I've come to tell you we've excavated what may be an old chamber of worship. I'd like your expertise."
>"Ah, well! I was not expecting such an opportunity right at home. Very well, give me a moment to collect myself."
>>
No. 1090945 ID: 46e818
File 171570476509.png - (7.93KB , 800x600 , 2184.png )
1090945

"One more thought on totem gods -- would it be possible for a widely respected mortal, like a king, to be deified in this way?"
>"No, I don't believe so. A totem god is created to fill a void, to create a new entity where worship is being directed. If there's already someone there, I don't think anything in particular would happen.
>Besides, even if something similar were possible, it would likely take generations. A long-term plan, to say the least. The only way--

>...hm."

"What is it?"
>"No, I just-- this discussion has given me a strange inkling. I-- it may need more time to percolate."
>>
No. 1090946 ID: ce619a

Uh oh.
UHHH.
Wait a minute. If the amulet is capable of turning mortals into totemtic gods and we currently possess it...

>We've been protecting, helping and saving peoples who would be regarded as "ugly"
>The seer saying "We've met before, haven't we?"
>The demon saying "Now I see what you are. Only now, at the end, do I recognize you."
>Then tearing it apart with your mind

Congrats, you're a fledgling god.

Test this theory out by going outside and trying your fire knack at the maximum power you can muster. Make sure you don't point it at anything you don't want to lose.
>>
No. 1090947 ID: eb0a9c

...Wait.
>Voltos are going extinct
>Rebels are angry over lack of overrepresentation of Voltos
>Finesse is really @#$%ing old and has worshipped your family for generations
Crap.
I think this is a species-wide conspiracy.
They... know that representing other races is more profitable in the long run. They saw that King Muschio was popular and that produced more yield. They saw their fortunes rise more than if they took over themselves... and the new royals didn't care. Because your father was on the verge of dissolving the divinity that was in their grasp - and of course, they wanted that divinity for themselves.
I think this would explain a lot about society's obsession with absolute power over more power.
>>
No. 1090949 ID: b11d2d

Please ask Babrakus to make taller bunk beds. Pendle has to hunch down just to fit on the lower bed. The guy's got enough mental reasons to hunch over as it is, no need to encourage it.
>>
No. 1090951 ID: ce619a

>>1090949
He was possessed at the time when he asked for his own quarters, but might as well ask now that's he's demon-free if he still wants his own room.
>>
No. 1090954 ID: 748aaf

>>1090946
This theory might actually hold some water, and it would make sense as to why the Czar wanted it.
>>
No. 1090955 ID: 273c18

No, it's not Muschio. It's us.
>>
No. 1090958 ID: 547921

We should probably find out from Finnie how long goblins usually live. Just in case.
>>
No. 1090977 ID: 7493dd

>>1090955
We are supposed to be the result of a curse.
Boss, what can you recall of the events that brought us into being?
>>
No. 1090991 ID: 2f41db

>>1090951
Agreed, though i wouldnt be surprised if he prefers the billets.
The last thing he may want right now is to be left alone with his thoughts.
Company, even background white noise of the presence of others, may be a balm right now.
>>
No. 1091007 ID: 58dd24

>>1090977
Best I can remember is "When I fled my dying kingdom, that's when things became hectic. I found my way to Iniziare Citta and lived there in quiet secrecy for a while before it became clear the rebels weren't looking for me. My mind was fractured by a gypsy curse -- but you know this. The fragile part of my subconscious, that part which brews up ideas and decisions, that part which every man hears so constantly day in and day out, whispering passing thoughts to himself without even noticing its voices, which produces in him strange mental images and peculiar, fleeting notions -- that part is you. Ripped from my psyche and stuffed into this orb, a physical container of a part of my own mind I can never re-integrate.
"It is a rather schizophrenic feeling. To be honest, I believe there's an element of psychosis involved in all this."
>>
No. 1091008 ID: 46e818
File 171580613788.png - (18.34KB , 800x600 , 2185.png )
1091008

"Well, you'll have to explain it to me once you've got it more figured out."
>"But of course, Prince."

"I'll ask Finesse about this shortly, but for now, let's focus on exploring this new chamber."
>"Yes, very well."

"...what is it?"
>"Ah. It's just, I'm realizing now we've both lost a part of ourselves, pursuing a greater whole."
>>
No. 1091009 ID: 46e818
File 171580617535.png - (13.89KB , 800x600 , 2186.png )
1091009

We arrive at the entrance, now widened, if only slightly, by the Odds.

>"I suppose I am ready. Will anyone be joining me or am I to enter alone?"
>>
No. 1091010 ID: c2a27a

You should probably go with him, and also bring along Ona and Erisol, just in case there's any magic whojiwhatsits.
>>
No. 1091011 ID: ce619a

>>1091009
As our tinkerer, Finesse should be the best at detecting mechanical traps should there be any.
>>
No. 1091012 ID: 3f3d5c

I mean, yeah, we should totally go in there with him. We wanna scope it out, too, right? Maybe seeing it ourselves will make us think up more questions, besides.
Shouldn't need anyone else, though. It's apparently not a big room, isn't dangerous, and we don't want it to get too crowded. Have the Odd stand by the entrance in case we need it to go fetch something, though.
>>
No. 1091013 ID: debc82

>>1091009

Let's go with him, Big M. It was our idea, after all.
>>
No. 1091014 ID: b11d2d

>>1091009
Enter with him, but before that, tie a rope around your waists and fasten it to something that can carry your weights. It's only a small room, a place of worship - it should be safe. But I don't want us to take any chances with trapdoors and spike pits.
>>
No. 1091015 ID: 58dd24

This seems like a job that would benefit from the witchy side of our witch doctor's expertise
>>
No. 1091016 ID: 273c18

>>1091009
Let's have someone knowledgable about traps go in with, as well as someone who can fight off any undead or wild animals there may be in there.
>>
No. 1091018 ID: 2f41db

>>1091009
Accompany him big m.
I dont expect danger but a variety of knowledge is the mark of a goodcruler.
Seeing hom at work and his immediage discoveries may be stimulating.
>>
No. 1091058 ID: 46e818
File 171588758934.png - (19.47KB , 800x600 , 2187.png )
1091058

I send for Miss Openda to join us.

Then, Pendle and I step into the dark chamber beyond.
>>
No. 1091059 ID: 3cd5c3

>>1091058
There's something familiar of this satue on the far-right side, does it tingle something in your mind?
>>
No. 1091060 ID: 8b1abb

>>1091058
There seems to be a ladder carved in the wall on the right, guess whoever made this place needed some way into the sealed room in the center of a mountain. Can you see what's at the top?
>>
No. 1091061 ID: ce619a

>>1091058
Looks like there's some ladder rungs on the wall. That answers how red fang got in and out of here. Guessing they go up through a secret passage we never found and might have had the odds pave over. Save checking on that for later, we need to look at these idols first.

DO NOT TOUCH OR MOVE THE IDOLS
>>
No. 1091071 ID: debc82

>>1091058

Oh, that's interesting. There's a ladder carved into the wall to the right of Pendle.
>>
No. 1091072 ID: aad029

Let's move around the chamber first, make sure the movement of the shadows doesn't reveal anything else.
>>
No. 1091075 ID: 30bde9

>>1091072
I second. Not just to make sure theres nothing hidden in shadow but the shadows move relative to the light, and we don't grow any extras.
>>
No. 1091077 ID: 273c18

>>1091058
Hey, isn't one of those a sign for The Red One? These are probably all gods' idols. What's the circle in the middle? Don't step in it...
Looks like an alcove in the back?
>>
No. 1091078 ID: b11d2d

>>1091058
Seems like Red Fang was praying to whomever he could reach. Not picky about his deities, was he?

One more obvious thing: some of those have charms hanging off the pedestals, but others don't. Presumably, our charm belongs on one of the latter. Anything we can glean by inspecting the pedestals without a charm?
>>
No. 1091079 ID: c2a27a

This seems like some sort of multi-purpose praying chamber 6 different gods, with altars and idols for easy access. But like, why? Was Red Fang just a true believer or was there some benefit to praying to different gods at different times?
>>
No. 1091080 ID: 3f3d5c

... it feels unusual, doesn't it?
I mean, most shrines are dedicated to a single god. But this one is apparently dedicated to seven different idols. There's a sigil in the center, which implies to me there was something more going on here than just simple paying respects.

I'm especially interested in that statue in the back on the right. It looks broken, doesn't it? I wonder who it was meant for?

>>1091059
Looks similar to Mr Lollipop's eye, tbh. Was he meant to be part of this congregation? For what purpose, I wonder?
>>
No. 1091081 ID: d6d64f

>>1091080
Pretty sure that is Mr. Lollipops eye. I also recognize symbols for Death which is the X-cross, and civilization, the one to the left of Lollipop's eye. I think one could be a symbol for chaos but its upside down. Red Fang may not have been to particular about where his power came from, as long as it benefitted him.
>>
No. 1091084 ID: 7493dd

>>1091058
At least there's no ominous stone sarcophagus.
>>
No. 1091121 ID: c10e31

Hmm... What's with the necklaces hanging off most of those? Wait a second. We got the thing the czar desires from red fang's corpse... plus the broken one is missing such an item so... we gotta puzzle out what that one was. We've got pieces so perhaps we can fit them like a 3d puzzle?
>>
No. 1091124 ID: 2f41db

>>1091058
The circle on the floor.
Ask pendle if he has any understanding of it.

The icons around it are either empowering or containing it.
Either way, do not touch is good advice.
>>
No. 1091134 ID: 8f9bc4

Ah, a ladder. This chamber was at the bottom of something.
>>
No. 1091148 ID: 46e818
File 171598119337.png - (19.29KB , 800x600 , 2188.png )
1091148

The whole chamber feels roughly hewn, but certain parts are very smooth. It makes me wonder if it wasn't expanded from a natural hollow of some kind.

Frequently visited, too. Indeed, there is a ladder set into the wall here. I will wait a moment before exploring its other end.

>"Interesting. It certainly seems to be a prayer chamber of some sort. If it belonged to Red Fang, he evidently held faith in a small pantheon."
"The Seer did describe him as fearful and desperate. Perhaps this was his way of trying to cover all his bases."
>"Runes in the center as well. I think Miss Openda would agree this is a ritual site. Sacrificial, I believe, from some of these markings."
>>
No. 1091150 ID: 46e818
File 171598134851.png - (12.67KB , 800x600 , 2189.png )
1091150

Each of the seven altars bears a figure of some kind, though they seem made of various materials. This one, which even a layman like myself can recognize as fashioned in symbolism of the Seer, is made from some heavily polished stone, painted with a dark finish at the center, now worn and flaking. It must have taken ages to smooth it like this, especially while preserving those spurs.

Each altar is also hung with a bone-carved amulet, much like the one that's caused us so much mystery.
>>
No. 1091151 ID: 5d083d

There seems to be a missing idol and necklace.
And since this was probably red Fang's room, and the necklace was his as well, it is almost certain that this is where it belongs.
Just don't place it anywhere yet until we have some kind of idea of what might happen if whatever magic is going on here gets activated.
>>
No. 1091152 ID: 7daa6a

>>1091148
Sacrificial huh... That's not great, no telling what was sacrificed, could have been anything from his time and devotion to full blown ritualistic killing. Well, let's start cataloging these and see what we want to keep and what we want to get rid of. Some of these gods may not be the ones we want to have around.
>>
No. 1091154 ID: bebd3c

just to ask the obvious question: the missing idol is also missing it's necklace, right? It seems obvious that this is where the bone necklace originated
>>
No. 1091155 ID: 273c18

Alright, looks like we know where the necklace goes, but the "idol" on that pillar is crumbled? Examine that a bit closer.
>>
No. 1091156 ID: 7493dd

>>1091148
In the pedestals, there's seem one of the idols is broken.
>>
No. 1091204 ID: 8b1abb

just in case it needs to be said, lets avoid standing in the creepy sacrificial circle while examining the things
>>
No. 1091209 ID: 2f41db

>>1091150
Hopefully miss openda will be able to identify the entities associated with each idol.
Its possible theres more diminished gods out there than mister lollipop.
Potential allies and enemies all.

Going to have to remember to make sure that ladder leads somewhere secure big M

Mind you... if it does lead outside somehow a sally port is always a good thing to have in any holdfast as long as it is well hidden and lockable.
>>
No. 1091212 ID: eb0a9c

>Sacrificial
I would be flabbergasted if Red Fang didn't torture and murder prisoners down here.

Wait a minute. We've... we've seen this.
That X, it-
well.
I think its respective entity may be dead.

Don't reunite the amulet. If all seven are equipped, I don't know what will happen.

Take notes, leave everything untouched.
>>
No. 1091217 ID: 7b65e9

Examine the "X" symbol.
Something doesn't sit well about it.
>>
No. 1091220 ID: aad029

I wonder if the Seer can see through representations of his eye? That sort of thing happens with gods. Give him a little wave.
>>
No. 1091225 ID: 8f9bc4

Huh, spurs on either side of a dark sphere, as though the light (or the bone (life?)) was being pulled towards the darkness, but getting torn away from it on a particular axis. Like a strongman swinging a ball and chain at that angle, the ball both bound to him by the chain, and pulled away by the spinning.

Anyway something tells me the Czar would be really interested in these trinkets. Under no circumstances should Princess Erisol learn of all these other necklaces you've found.

...what happens when you wear them all at the same time
>>
No. 1091226 ID: debc82

>>1091150

Odd that none of the figures seem to bear a resemblance to our own bone amulet.
>>
No. 1091237 ID: 46e818
File 171605962789.png - (7.55KB , 800x600 , 2190.png )
1091237

One of the pedestals bears an idol that's been smashed to pieces, missing its amulet. It doesn't take a genius to see that this must have been the resting place of the amulet I now bear, before it was moved.

"The Seer did mention something about Red Fang foreseeing his own death. Feeling the anger of his idols. I wonder why he singled out this one."
>"As you said, he must have been very afraid and desperate. Maybe he thought this would save him, somehow. Removed it from his worship room."
>>
No. 1091238 ID: 46e818
File 171606024080.png - (12.68KB , 800x600 , 2191.png )
1091238

"Do you recognize any of these idols?"
>"Some, yes. Beyond the Seer, of which you've informed me, I see the cross of the Ashen Moth, the Crucible of Mirrors. The Bleakheart, the Prince of Wounds. There of course is the Barbed Wheel -- quite some talk of it a few years ago, when the cult vanished.
>Quite a menagerie of obscure and rather dangerous figures, and two I don't recognize."
>>
No. 1091239 ID: eb0a9c

So... what? We re-create the idol somehow?
We do have an entire mountain made of magical stone. Maybe it somehow recorded an engram of the original pattern or something.
>>
No. 1091241 ID: 46e818

>>1091240
(There is a visible ladder)
>>
No. 1091244 ID: 273c18

>>1091238
Alright let's check the alcove and then go up the ladder. ...can Pindle make it up the ladder?
>>
No. 1091245 ID: b11d2d

>>1091237
So it seems Red Fang worshipped either a little too hard or the wrong way, thus earning the ire of the Shield of Comose.

We'll need to have Ona look at these later. For now, let's head up the ladder.
>>
No. 1091247 ID: 047965

>>1091239
Also is there anyway we can tell when the idol was smashed? I’d like to get a time frame of whether or not Red Fang smashed it if it someone else has been down here via the ladder.
>>
No. 1091257 ID: c2a27a

So is it like a normal thing to worship a charcuterie board of different gods or is this the first time Pendle's heard of this? Would the gods being worshiped not be a little upset that they aren't getting your full attention if you were to do this?
>>
No. 1091259 ID: b8a40c

>>1091238
Ask Pendle if he has any ideas what the correlation between the amulets and idols could be and if the other amulets are of similar quality to first one we found.

That first amulet we've been holding onto is apparently of great importance. Maybe some of the others are equally so, as well. If the Czar was willing to kill us and even launch multiple raids against our holdings, then the other amulets might draw similar attention.
>>
No. 1091260 ID: 7493dd

>>1091238
Boss, could focus on the ones Pendle didn't recognize.

Also, the one that was broken, could it be because Red Fang deemed it useless?
>>
No. 1091261 ID: 2f41db

>>1091238
None of those sound pleasant at all.
The ashen moth is probably a serial arsonist.

This all feels like the magical equivalent of unearthing an unexploded bomb.
Lets hope nothing starts fizzing.

Good work pendle.
Maybe check where the ladder goes when miss openda turns up to share her knowledge.
>>
No. 1091274 ID: eef602

which two does he not recognize? they must be either really obscure or really old
>>
No. 1091275 ID: a515ad

>>1091150
You might want to try touching the Seer's symbol and see if you can communicate with him.

You're on good terms and he'd know all about this room assumably.

We should wait for Ona and Pendle's advice first though, before touching even the only idol we know likes us.
>>
No. 1091287 ID: f1a105

Touch everything. Dance wildly in the center of the circle. Call down Ashe and commit debased acts on the idols. Embrace the madness and darkness. Invite the ire of the divine, or maybe their delight, for who knows what profane and blasphemous acts may please them.
>>
No. 1091292 ID: 46e818
File 171614743302.png - (13.34KB , 800x600 , 2192.png )
1091292

"Which symbols don't you recognize?"
>"The chunky one with the little tail, and the one that looks like a horned man with six limbs."
"The names you've given strike me as a bit macabre."
>"Well, given what we've heard of Red Fang from you and the locals, the man was something of a tyrant, not to mention a sadist. I suppose his shrines would reflect that."
"Is it normal to worship a variety of gods like this?"
>"Enough. Especially with more esoteric figures, and those with specific and smaller dominions, a broad pantheon of worship is not at all uncommon."

I climb with some effort (though surely less than Pendle would have) and try the trapdoor.
"It's stuck fast."
>>
No. 1091293 ID: 46e818
File 171614756477.png - (9.65KB , 800x600 , 2193.png )
1091293

>"Well, the room above it probably moved. Nothing on the other side now but stone."
>"Miss Openda's correct, I believe. If this room's been static, it probably connected to the room you made into your bedroom. Red Fang's old throne room."
>"So this is a creepy little place, isn't it? Gettin' heebie-jeebies in here."
>>
No. 1091294 ID: 273c18

>>1091293
Hey short stuff, what's the circle do?
>>
No. 1091296 ID: b11d2d

>>1091293
You mean the regular "something nasty was taking was place here regularly" heebie-jeebies, or the "bad juju of magical nature" kind of heebie-jeebies?
>>
No. 1091297 ID: 5d083d

Am I crazy or did the shape of the entrance change?
>>
No. 1091299 ID: b8a40c

>>1091297
[Assuming this isn't an art error or the odds continuing to be at work]
...
Ok. First instinct is to rush out, but knowing spooky stuff that's just going to make the entrance shut close immediately and also deny us access to our orb network outside the room.
Don't panic, say nothing about the entrance's shape changing and continue inspecting things.

Try communicating with the seer from his idol. If nothing else he could provide us guidance on what we can and can't do with this room and it's artifacts.
>>
No. 1091303 ID: 8f9bc4

Maybe more Ona's style, how's the circle make her feel? Gut reaction? Is it dreamstuff?
>>
No. 1091304 ID: 7493dd

>>1091292
Those who worship many gods are faithful to none.
It's clear that Red Fang was desperately fishing for any small god willing to favor him.
>>
No. 1091317 ID: eb0a9c

>>1091292
Muschio, you have a wooden hand and somehow you're making it work like a functioning one. Did Mr. Lollipop enchant it yet?
>>
No. 1091318 ID: eb0a9c

>>1091304
Chaos Undivided means worshipping the broad system or collective that is formed by the gods working as a whole unit, which does not require reverence or admiration of any particular god.
Which is totally in line with Red Fang's zealous worship of chaos and tyranny, because when these extreme and polarized cult gods try to work together, you get the opposite of harmony.

Speaking of which, our next assignment should be to find the other six gods, get a grip on their concepts and the options we can take. This might be our best shot at stopping Inzare Citta, which only reveres one god at the moment.
>>
No. 1091319 ID: 2f41db

>>1091292
At least its a known dead end niw big m.

>>1091293
Good evening miss openda.
Your insight into heebie jeebies is the every reason we requested your presence.
>>
No. 1091332 ID: 46e818

>>1091317
You mean the fake hand hanging limply on the same arm where he's using his elbow to rest on the ladder?
>>
No. 1091407 ID: 46e818
File 171624210327.png - (19.25KB , 800x600 , 2194.png )
1091407

"Is that your professional opinion? Is there something here we should be wary of?"
>"I don't like, 'sense' a curse or anything if that's what you mean. I just think it's spooky.
>But I guess it just looks like a pretty standard if kinda crude prayer room, other than the ritual circle."
"What can you tell us about it?"
>>
No. 1091408 ID: 46e818
File 171624213232.png - (13.18KB , 800x600 , 2195.png )
1091408

>"Well, that's definitely dried blood caked in at the center."
"And of the pattern?"
>"Hmm. HMMM."
>>
No. 1091409 ID: 46e818
File 171624230390.png - (13.30KB , 800x600 , 2196.png )
1091409

>"This circle sucks."
"Is it evil?"
>"No I mean it's super badly made. First it's not even close to a perfect circle, like obvious at a glance. Second, a bunch of the lines here just... they don't do anything. They're meaningless. It's like he was just imitating something he saw, stylistically, without understanding it.
>The center rune is at least partially correct? It's one of a bunch of sacrifice markings, but it's also crossed with a rune of self-sacrifice. I'd bet at least some of this blood is Red Fang's.
>The rest though, it's just... nonsense. Meaningless. Gibberish. I dunno, if this is the guy whose worship the Seer said was so potent, I'd bet it wasn't because of this circle. Not wholly, anyway."
>>
No. 1091410 ID: 25d309

>>1091409
How potent are prayers as magical spells? We’ve uncovered a lot of that mineral that amplifies magic. Could it turn even a poorly made circle like this into something more powerful?
>>
No. 1091411 ID: 25d309

>>1091410
Peregast, that’s the mineral that boosts magic. If we’re working with the logic that prayers and faith in gods can be rewarded in magic and power then it stands to reason that’s why it’s been so powerful despite it being poorly made.
>>
No. 1091412 ID: 25d309

>>1091410
Peregast, that’s the mineral that boosts magic. If we’re working with the logic that prayers and faith in gods can be rewarded in magic and power then it stands to reason that’s why it’s been so powerful despite it being poorly made.
>>
No. 1091413 ID: eb0a9c

He was a mercenary, not a scholar.
Still, record the circle. The fact that he managed to make this hodgepodge contraption work at all means that the few pieces which worked really well should be studied.

Don't rely on the gods for now. Wait until you have a decent handle on what the hell you're looking at.

...And find out if the demon that possessed Pendle used to be one of these totems.
>>
No. 1091415 ID: 273c18

>>1091409
...ah. I wonder if all these objects were stolen from the Czar? But he couldn't steal the ritual circle, so he tried to copy it... and he did it somehow without the Czar knowing immediately that it was him and hunting him down? Maybe the Czar wants *all* of the amulets, not just the one that we've been focusing on. The idols too. Makes me wonder why that one wasn't in here? Maybe because its matching idol broke there was no point keeping the amulet with it, so it was excluded from the ritual?
Maybe the ritual itself shielded Red Fang from retaliation for stealing the items?

It's either that, or it's a ritual circle created out of a collection of passed-down superstitions?

What does Ona think the ritual would do? Whatever Red Fang wanted it to, perhaps, despite the poor construction?
>>
No. 1091416 ID: b8a40c

>>1091409
Ask her if it would be possible to adapt this room into a proper prayer/hex/curse/holy/etc room. Or if there's any risk in attempting to move or dispose of any of the more unsavory idols.

Might as well try to utilize the room since it's here. We do have a worshiper of the seer here, after all.
>>
No. 1091419 ID: 2f41db

>>1091409
Thankyou.

Done properly and done well could this room be of utility to someone working with shrines and circles?
Perhaps as a laboratory of the spiritual for miss openda and pendle?
>>
No. 1091420 ID: 05fc82

Just going to throw this out there. If the Seer felt a tangible loss of power from Red Fang's lack of prayer coming from this place, would the other totem gods have as well? If so, are repercussions from the more vengeful gods possible against us as the current inhabitants? I'm concerned we may need to start a church as well as a kingdom.
>>
No. 1091440 ID: eef602

damn if fang was really clutching for the seer and his KD ratio was lopsided, imagine what we could do???
we just need to set some proper shit up, get it cleaned up nice and purdy
>>
No. 1091495 ID: 46e818
File 171632330154.png - (19.90KB , 800x600 , 2197.png )
1091495

"Could the magic-amplifying crystal of the mountain be amplifying worshipful prayers, too? Do those qualify as magic?"
>"I... hm. I'm not sure. I don't know if there's ever been much research on the idea. I suppose they are both metaphysical, but... how would you even test such a thing?"
>"Red Fang sacrificing his own blood would've been pretty potent, too. Even if the circle was crude it wouldn't have diminished that much. From what you described, the villages of the woods didn't seem the sacrificing type either."
>"Well, sacrifice is potent, but I wouldn't imagine enough to sustain a dwindling god on its own."
>"Well it didn't, the Seer just said he was waning a bit without it. The whole problem was not being strong enough in the moment, not that he was dying."
>"But he did say he could feel the absence, so it must have been quite potent."
>>
No. 1091496 ID: 46e818
File 171632333726.png - (11.65KB , 800x600 , 2198.png )
1091496

As Ona and Pendle discuss the possibilities of magical prayer, I peer into the small carved alcove in the back of the room.
>>
No. 1091498 ID: 273c18

>>1091496
Poke it.
>>
No. 1091501 ID: b8a40c

>>1091496
Oh sweet.

Call the others to have a look at it from afar. It might be the corpse of a previous sacrifice or something of the like.
Don't touch it until the others give you the go ahead.

Man, moving or repurposing this room is going to be a real pain.
>>
No. 1091502 ID: debc82

>>1091496

Wonder if that's our missing idol.
>>
No. 1091505 ID: 047965

>>1091496
Could be another idol could be a mummified body. Either way I looks like it’s wrapped up with cloth and string or rope. Get a knife and be ready in case shit goes sideways.
>>
No. 1091506 ID: a891d6

I feel like if it was a dead body you'd be able to at least, like, smell it. Unless it's just bones. You should probably let the other two people present know about it before you mess with it.
>>
No. 1091514 ID: 2f41db

>>1091496
Hm.
That looks odd.
At first i thought it was a hunched person.
Be carefu-
>>1091498
-nhhhgg poke it!
Pokeitpokeitpokeit.
>>
No. 1091558 ID: dce916

You really shouldn't stick your finger in there, however...do it. Poke poke poke away!
>>
No. 1091581 ID: eef602

if you do poke it, at least do it with the fake hand
we really dont need you losing your only other real hand
>>
No. 1091582 ID: aad029

Oh boy a mummy! Better call in the archeologists. By which I mean Pendle and Ona.
>>
No. 1091628 ID: 46e818
File 171649051516.png - (8.42KB , 800x600 , 2199.png )
1091628

>>
No. 1091629 ID: 46e818
File 171649052353.gif - (286.31KB , 800x600 , 2200.gif )
1091629

>>
No. 1091630 ID: 46e818
File 171649058093.png - (9.31KB , 810x610 , 2201.png )
1091630

seems ok.
>>
No. 1091631 ID: 3cd5c3

>>1091630
Don't get into conclusions yet, inspect the other sides and the "rock" can be carried, shake it but slowly if there's something or hollow inside
>>
No. 1091632 ID: eb0a9c

Without us completely in your head, you can be pretty impulsive.

Seal the place up with a proper vault door. Time for a group meeting.
>>
No. 1091633 ID: b8a40c

>>1091630
Alrighty then
now that we've indulged our intrusive thoughts let's get Pendle and Ona to take a look at it in case it has something to do with the rest of the religious artifacts in the room.
>>
No. 1091637 ID: 273c18

Kindof small huh? Well let's see what's inside.
>>
No. 1091643 ID: 2f41db

>>1091630
...thankyou big m.
That was like an itch that had to be scratched.

Hmm.
Looks like an object bound in twine and wrapped in cloth.
Carry it to pendle and oda so they can comment upon it when you open it or interfere if doing so would be incredibly bad?
>>
No. 1091644 ID: 3f3d5c

Can we... pick it up?
>>
No. 1091662 ID: 7493dd

>>1091630
The nose knows, smell test time Boss.
>>
No. 1091701 ID: 46e818
File 171659011413.png - (12.84KB , 800x600 , 2202.png )
1091701

>"Prince Malto! That's quite-- okay. Good job. If you're quite done with your... examination, I'd like to have a closer look."
>>
No. 1091702 ID: 46e818
File 171659022389.png - (13.87KB , 800x600 , 2203.png )
1091702

>"WHOA! What are you DOING? You literally just got over a demon possession, you really want to go picking up creepy shit right away?"

>"Miss-- I'm sorry, Ona, please --
>First of all, the fact I just got over a possession is exactly why I feel confident picking this up. There's surely enough houndsgall still in my system from my initial treatment to protect me from any further inhabitation, don't you think?
>Second of all, this is merely a religious relic. There's nothing 'creepy' about it."
>>
No. 1091703 ID: 46e818
File 171659023323.png - (12.05KB , 800x600 , 2204.png )
1091703

>>
No. 1091704 ID: 46e818
File 171659025627.png - (12.72KB , 800x600 , 2205.png )
1091704

>"Well. I am willing to grant, perhaps, that it is a bit creepy."
>>
No. 1091705 ID: c2a27a

>>1091704
okay so is that a skull or just really elaborately carved
>>
No. 1091706 ID: b8a40c

>>1091704
Is that thing an actual corpse or just a creepy totem?
>>
No. 1091707 ID: 2f41db

>>1091704
Its a good thing we didnt fixate on licking it.
>>
No. 1091713 ID: 273c18

Eugh, what is that thing?
>>
No. 1091737 ID: d1862d

>>1091704
That would look amazing in the barracks, there is no possible way anyone would object or anything bad would happen.
>>
No. 1091750 ID: 8f9bc4

So did Redfang shatter the totem, or did he just remove it from the pedestal, and wrap it in cloth?
>>
No. 1091751 ID: eb0a9c

Oh gods
TOOTHPICK?!
Please be alive!
>>
No. 1091772 ID: 46e818
File 171667033016.png - (19.71KB , 800x600 , 2206.png )
1091772

"Do you think this is the idol meant to go on the last altar?"
>"No, this is carved wood, swaddled in cloth and ropes. Doesn't resemble the others at all -- too complex, at that. The others are all symbols.
>Besides that, I imagine that if the missing symbol is our mystery amulet, it would resemble the amulet, not... this."

"Then what do we think it is?"
>"Well, given the proximity to the altar and the more detailed shape, plus the expression of suffering (though I hesitate to unwrap it fully) I get the impression of--"
>"It's a mock sinner, right?"
>"Yes, my thoughts exactly."

"And what's a mock sinner?"
>"It's an effigy of sorts, meant to take the brunt of curses and hexes in place of the intended target. They're semi popular in use, though I can't say if they have any real efficacy."
>"I assume Red Fang thought this might protect him from divine wrath, too."
>"Well, on the current topic of whether Godly action can be treated as magic, it seems Red Fang, at least, believed the two were interchangeable."
>>
No. 1091776 ID: b8a40c

>>1091772
So, asking their opinions, what should we do with the thing?
What's more dangerous: keeping it around or getting rid of it?
>>
No. 1091778 ID: eb0a9c

Carve up a Masochistic Mock Sinner - an entity which takes specific curses and symbolically absorbs them as blessings due to their unique mindset.
>>
No. 1091780 ID: 3f3d5c

... I feel sorry for it.
That sounds strange, since it's an inanimate object. There's definitely some totemism in that thought. Some form of magical thinking. But hey, we've already met a god, so.
Whatever curses were going to be sent towards Red Fang weren't going to blocked by this. Red Fang's sins were entirely his own. We ourselves saw to it that he was punished.

I say we put it outside somewhere, so that it can be free.
Or, if we want to do something less sentimental, just burn the damn thing. Cremation would be a form of freeing it, also. Either way, we're starting afresh and I kindof don't want this reminder of Red Fang's deeds hanging around the base, y'know?
>>
No. 1091784 ID: 2f41db

>>1091772
Any way to tell if its done its job?

You could be holding on to the equivalent of divine toxic waste if it did.
...which could also be quite a nasty weapon too.
>>
No. 1091790 ID: 8f9bc4

...attune the monster portal to it.
>>
No. 1091814 ID: b915da

>>1091790
Yeet it into the portal!
>>
No. 1091816 ID: 7493dd

>>1091704
>>1091814
Second the motion, and on top of that I may add to try each idol in portal too and see if they react.
>>
No. 1091828 ID: 46e818
File 171675087985.png - (11.03KB , 800x600 , 2207.png )
1091828

"Well... you're my two most knowledgeable officers on the topics here. What are your thoughts?"
>"The Seer suggested they were angry with him, and despite his worship, 'would set in motion the wheels of his death', and that Red Fang felt this.
>It's impossible for me to guess how long this turning of the wheel took. The mock sinner could have been carved days or even years before his defeat at your hands.
>The smashing of the idol could mean many things. Did he suppose this god is the one who turned against him, specifically? Was it a threat to the other gods that he'd withdraw his potent worship? Just an impulsive gesture of desperate anger? I couldn't imagine."

>"As for this place... it's creepy, but I don't think there's anything cursed or magical about it. I think there's a sad energy to it all, but that's just because an evil man came here day after day begging to avoid his fate.
>Which is bleak in a lot of ways, but like... not magic. Not a curse.
>And the circle of sacrifice is meant to empower sacrifices, it's not like it's gonna sacrifice you itself if you step into it."

>"I agree with Ms. Openda's assessment. This place is strange and melancholic, but I don't deem it a danger to the Vault or anyone in it."
>>
No. 1091829 ID: 46e818
File 171675089964.png - (9.96KB , 800x600 , 2208.png )
1091829

"Okay, and what if I put this in the monster portal?"
>>
No. 1091830 ID: 46e818
File 171675090790.png - (11.02KB , 800x600 , 2209.png )
1091830

>>
No. 1091831 ID: 8f9bc4

No objections? Great!
>>
No. 1091832 ID: 46e818
File 171675117042.png - (10.80KB , 800x600 , 2210.png )
1091832

>"I..."

>"Uh, that's... why."

>"I don't think that's-- that is to say--"

>"Uh, mannikins are made in a variety of ways, so I guess the desperate and devoted energy that would've been channeled into or at least around this thing could have given it a... sort of falloff of psychic energy."

>"I don't... have any reason to think that would enable its functionality as a mannikin, but... the focal energies of a monster portal can be very unpredictable, and I suppose there's always a possibility that--"
>"But more than that, like... boss. Come on. Even if that did make something, do you really wanna see what comes out of it? This place isn't magic but there's so much negative emotion that's been poured out in here for months, even years, plus whatever sacrifice..."
>"Do you really think it's wise to risk making this place's latent energies actually tangible?"
>>
No. 1091833 ID: eb0a9c

Voting to summon Toothpick with the effigy.
>>
No. 1091836 ID: b8a40c

>>1091832
We already killed a demon, so if something hostile comes from it I'm sure we can handle it??????????????
Maybe mess with the seer's idol, see if we can contact him and ask if this is a good idea. And more relevantly, ask if he'd like a temple/ritual room dedicated to him here. We could fine-tune that sacrifice circle and have Tislomer sacrifice some candy to him.

Speaking of, do either of our experts see a problem with getting rid of all the other idols? Because we definitely do not want anything to do with most of those other guys.
>>
No. 1091838 ID: 273c18

So, it might work, but will probably summon something nasty. How about we don't cause our own disasters and leave it alone?
>>
No. 1091841 ID: aad029

The more you look at it the more it's kinda cute. Poor little guy, made to take another's sins. I wanna give it some new clothes and a warm drink.

Anyway though yeah probably don't put it in the portal. Assure your followers that you're just asking questions, you trust their judgement. They're the experts here! All you can show is your curiosity in their fields of expertise. So, is there anything useful to be done with this chamber besides leaving the idols of the gods where they are, maybe try show them a little respect with some cleaning and little offerings now and then? Should we get rid of that circle, maybe replace it with something that could do something for us? Not that we want to be the sacrifice types, but why not, right?

Oh yeah there's not chance that like Red Fang's soul got sucked into the sinner thing after he died is there? Just seems like that'd be the kind of prank a god might play on someone they were annoyed with who tried to cheat their curse. Asking in knowledge of ignorance again, ha ha!
>>
No. 1091842 ID: 5d083d

Ignore them. Do it.
In fact, beeline for the portal before anyone can stop you.
>>
No. 1091844 ID: c2a27a

look I understand that there are plenty of good reasons not to do this but the instant it became even slightly possible is the instant I was going to do it
>>
No. 1091845 ID: 05fc82

We are either getting a new best friend or haunted and I am all for it
>>
No. 1091846 ID: 6f9444

oh I don't think we ever imagined it wasn't a bad idea. Could end in giving us insight into whatever the fuck happened here though, and that's good enough for me!
>>
No. 1091847 ID: b66942

This is a terrible idea. You should do it, but feel guilty about it the whole time.
>>
No. 1091853 ID: 2f41db

>>1091832
The muschio of the past would love to have a cursed sin golem to guard his lair.
Does the muschio of now want it?
Mmm. I dont know.
I am really curious though
>>
No. 1091861 ID: 4399ef

Perhaps it would be wise... were we to teleport whatever it made directly to the czar's palace.
>>
No. 1091863 ID: 3c0677

Yeet. It. Into. The. Portal.
>>
No. 1091865 ID: 046d8a

Only one way to know what will happen…
>>
No. 1091867 ID: 8f9bc4

I vote for getting it a fluffy blanket and some hot cocoa.
>>
No. 1091868 ID: 8b1abb

>>1091867
same
make it happy first and then chuck it in the portal
>>
No. 1091874 ID: 8512dd

>>1091832
"honestly? I think it'll be fun,yeah"
>>
No. 1091875 ID: 53560f

On the topic of divinity and magic, if Red Fang was right about magic and Divinity being interchangeable or one and the same, that might imply that magic only functions according to structured rules only because enough people agreed that it works like that. It could mean that true magic is totemic and can be wielded by almost anyone with strong enough belief or magical amplification though I’m not sure how we’d test this.

Also through that little guy in the portal and be ready to give him a hug as he comes out. He might need it.
>>
No. 1091876 ID: b3eab7

Follow the advice of your experts. Don't do it.
>>
No. 1091897 ID: 46e818
File 171683968062.png - (7.62KB , 800x600 , 2211.png )
1091897

"Yes, you're right. I should defer to the experience of my experts: It would be dangerous and irresponsible to attempt such a thing, anyway."
>>
No. 1091898 ID: 46e818
File 171683976459.png - (19.08KB , 800x600 , 2212.png )
1091898

>"Master are you absolutely sure this is a wise decision?"
"No! That's why I asked Dompag to be here. He'll help with handling whatever may come out."
>"Uh."
>>
No. 1091900 ID: 047965

>>1091898
Fuck it, we ball.
>>
No. 1091903 ID: 5d083d

It might be a good idea to do this somewhere safer, like the jail cell.
Just tie it to a stick and prod it against the portal through the bars.
And if everything goes pear-shaped It'll be distracted by Vittima long enough for Dompag to jump into action.
>>
No. 1091904 ID: 273c18

Maybe you should have more than just Dompag, then? Erisol maybe?
>>
No. 1091908 ID: b8a40c

>>1091898
Yes, this>>1091904
Having a caster here to zap it or at least teleport it away would be a good idea.

But let's not be hasty and assume if something comes of this that it will be hostile. Give this theoretical monster the benefit of the doubt and be nice to it if it doesn't come out swinging.
>>
No. 1091914 ID: 8f9bc4

It's a MONSTER portal, Tislomer. Not a sweet fluffy bunny portal. Monsters are supposed to come out of it!
>>
No. 1091919 ID: 2f41db

>>1091898
Personifying this thing is not the smartest move.
But neither was, well, lots of things so far and they turned out okay.
So, smart be damned, i want our sad lil sin golem.
>>
No. 1091922 ID: 3f3d5c

I just want to point out that this is a horrible idea. Just the absolute worst.
The absolute worst idea.

However, I will support it for the sake of science, and because I really want to see what happens.
>>
No. 1091923 ID: eb0a9c

Finesse, we've chosen this brash and foolish course of action because it's a high-risk option that has a slim chance of saving our daughter from eternal torment.

We're fucking doing this.
You want to stop Muschio, go right ahead, but you are not convincing us to give up on Toothpick.
>>
No. 1091925 ID: 46e818

>>1091923
>saving our daughter from eternal torment
Genuinely, do you just make up your own story in your head as you read or what
>>
No. 1091926 ID: aad029

Dude Muschio come on you don't want to be that sorta boss do you? You want to be a good leader, right? You gotta take advice or people will stop bothering to give it. There's a time for overriding your people's misgivings but that time's not to mess with portals and sin magnets created by your enemies that you found in a creepy sacrificial prayer room.
>>
No. 1091927 ID: e090ca

Just reiterating this... >>1091861
>>
No. 1091928 ID: 9baf17

So we really doing this then? Fuggit. YEET!
>>
No. 1091931 ID: 53560f

Sorry Finesse but we’ve already grown attached to it and are now more committed to this dangerous course of action than anything else we’ve ever done in our lives.
Dompag, be ready to hug or punch whatever comes out, possibly both but I’m betting it all on hugs.
>>
No. 1091951 ID: b11d2d

Let's not summon anything with this.

This will absolutely bite us in the ass, and if we do summon this spirit, my only hope is that it will only bite us in the ass right now once and not come back to do that regularly.
>>
No. 1091958 ID: 46e818
File 171692876115.png - (19.97KB , 800x600 , 2213.png )
1091958

You're right! Let's not be reckless.

I make sure Erisol is in attendance as well.
Here we go!
>>
No. 1091959 ID: 46e818
File 171692876967.png - (3.66KB , 800x600 , 2214.png )
1091959

>>
No. 1091960 ID: 46e818
File 171692877388.png - (3.87KB , 800x600 , 2215.png )
1091960

>>
No. 1091961 ID: 46e818
File 171692877889.png - (4.38KB , 800x600 , 2216.png )
1091961

>>
No. 1091962 ID: 46e818
File 171692878436.png - (6.14KB , 800x600 , 2217.png )
1091962

>>
No. 1091963 ID: 46e818
File 171692884779.png - (13.10KB , 800x600 , 2218.png )
1091963

A tall, robed creature with skin like jet gemstone pours smoothly out of the portal as if it were made of liquid.
>>
No. 1091964 ID: 60fc0b

Well looks like we have a new friend, introduce your self boss, and make it a good one!

Also try to get some info, Cause it's nice to know our new pals!
>>
No. 1091965 ID: eb0a9c

Okay.
Hi there, buddy.
>>
No. 1091966 ID: 5d083d

It's mouth appears to be bound.
Would it be wise to ungag it or is it too late to be cautious.
>>
No. 1091967 ID: d39f70

>>1091963
Greet it properly. Be polite, I get the feeling kindness will go a long way with this one.
>>
No. 1091968 ID: b8a40c

>>1091963
>Erisol is no longer smiling
>The sprite that was so nonchalant about the czar's assassin lobbing spells at them, teleporting randomly into the unknown and being in the presence of a demon
This can only mean good things!

...it looks vaguely familiar.
>>
No. 1091970 ID: 05fc82

It reminds me of the seer's true form. Not as off putting but still evokes a feeling of wrong.
>>
No. 1091971 ID: 273c18

>>1091963
Oh cool it worked. Say hello.

Wait what the fuck is that Red Fang?
>>
No. 1091978 ID: 2f41db

>>1091963
Well hello there!
Youre looking... disturbingly lessadorable than id imagined.

Say hi big m.
>>
No. 1091980 ID: 9c30f4

well the polite thing to do is introduce yourself, muschio
>>
No. 1091981 ID: debc82

>>1091963

Only mildly concerning.

Santiago, is that you ...?
>>
No. 1091983 ID: eef602

so does erisol feel anything weird, magic wise or vibe wise
>>
No. 1091984 ID: 8f9bc4

Have no fear, we have everything under control!
>>
No. 1091987 ID: 3f3d5c

This is a very special minion(?), made by a very special mannikin(??). We should treat it with respect. Greet it warmly.

It's probably had enough of being blamed for things it didn't do. Perhaps some kindness would help?
>>
No. 1092007 ID: 2ab1b2

Honestly i didn't think this far ahead. Dance party?
>>
No. 1092010 ID: aad029

Hmm, since it was made by Red Fang, and infused with his psychic energy, I suppose that in a sense this being is his... son, daughter? A nibling for Geppa. Well, they are an aesthetic creature, aren't they? Welcome them and ask them how they feel.
>>
No. 1092011 ID: e3eabd

They look like they could use a hug.
>>
No. 1092012 ID: 53560f

This is one of those situations where faith should be prioritised over reason.
“Nice to meet you. I’m muschio. What is your name, friend?”
>>
No. 1092019 ID: 861ceb

they seem neat, I like em.
>>
No. 1092025 ID: 46e818
File 171700699005.png - (9.91KB , 800x600 , 2219.png )
1092025

"Greetings. I am Muschio Malto. Be welcomed here."

>"I am... Mock Fang."
>>
No. 1092026 ID: 46e818
File 171700712047.png - (11.37KB , 800x600 , 2220.png )
1092026

>"Well, Mock Fang, allow my officers and me to show you around your new home. We'll have a bed made -- come with us and we'll discuss other personal effects to get you settled."
>"...very well."
>>
No. 1092027 ID: 7f14ef

>>1092026
I don't think we've ever seen you look anything but happy, Princess. Is something the matter? We can't see anything wrong with Mock Fang yet, aside from the obviously disconcerting appearance. Do you see something we don't?
>>
No. 1092029 ID: e3eabd

As we assumed, it seems the poor guy was made to be a spiritual decoy punching bag for Red Fang specifically. Wonder if they've retained any curses/ill will from their time as a totem. Also wonder if they'll approve or resent Red Fang's demise. Lastly there's the question of their abilities; are they still just a sentient spiritual/magical decoy? Rough existence if that's the case. Heck maybe they enjoy the punishment since that's the purpose they were made for.
>>
No. 1092030 ID: b8a40c

>>1092026
Hey, switch us over to Erisol for a bit.
She's never been disturbed by anything before despite all the greatly disturbing things she's seen and been through, so this is a bit of a red flag. Let's have a private talk in her head and see what's up.

Also, this dude is absolutely the ghost of Red Fang or at the least some kind of echo of him. Got the same doofy nose and everything.
If it really is, that brings up a question of whether other mannikins are also made from dead people.
>>
No. 1092031 ID: eb0a9c

We need to be very careful when introducing the newest Fang to Geppa.

Other than that, we should create some automated means of breaking up fights... or assassinations. Not just for the new hire, but because of what happened with Pendle. A few pillow golems with strict hard-coded orders to subdue and never kill.
>>
No. 1092034 ID: 273c18

Huh, none of the others talked. Is that good or bad?
>>
No. 1092042 ID: 05fc82

While we should check with the others to see how they feel about this new addition, I can't help but feel pity for Mock Fang. They were born to suffer for someone else's safety. If they had sentience before we gave them a functioning body, they could have a fountain of hate and anguish and curses waiting to flow. Let us treat them carefully and make sure they don't see fit to unleash any of that here
>>
No. 1092043 ID: ba7ecd

>>1092034
Huh? What about the Odds? Weren't they summoned? Since they did give scouting summaries.
>>
No. 1092045 ID: 273c18

>>1092043
Oh, they talk? My mistake.
>>
No. 1092046 ID: 46e818

>>1092043
>>1092045
The Denlings have talked, the Odds have not.
Embraddeus is also a summon and she's talked.
>>
No. 1092059 ID: 2f41db

>>1092026
You okay princess?
You look like youve just seen something that defies the laws of god, man and decency saunter across the room in profane defiance all reason.
You need a sit down?
>>
No. 1092077 ID: b8a40c

>>1092026
>name field
>>1092030
Oh whoops, we have switched.
Hey Erisol, don't talk aloud about this guy around him, just think it and we can hear it or at least get out of earshot of him first. After that, tell us what you make of this guy? Like, what is he?
And have you ever heard about someone making a mannikin out of a mock sinner before?
>>
No. 1092084 ID: 7493dd

>>1092025

Time to give a shard to our newest recruit.
Since he was meant as the scapegoat for RF sins, which already died. Then this means that MF is free of the load and should be open to a new kind of existence.

Now, on the other hand, it was stated.
"A Mannikin is a magic artifact, and it cannot be created in the mortal realm"
So how did RF pull this one-off?

Also
"How it works is that a normal, mundane object is created which resembles an EXISTING creature from the otherside realm, whether the resemblance is literal or iconic. One cannot simply cobble together a random totem or figurine, it must be representative of an extant type of monster."

This would mean that MF was not created but instead that a Monster with similar signature(?), resonated with the "Mannikin" and came fort through the threshold.

Now what would be the personality of a Monster modeled after one that bears the blame for others?

Only time will tell.

In the meantime, we should call him Billy
>>
No. 1092086 ID: 7493dd

>>1092084
Also asking the other monsters in our service about their takes on Billy.
>>
No. 1092087 ID: 273c18

Why would we call him Billy? He's already got a name, Mock Fang.
>>
No. 1092088 ID: eb0a9c

>>1092086
Geppa should name him.
>>
No. 1092098 ID: debc82

>>1092088

Where IS our dear little reformed miscreant? How's she faring? It's been a while.
>>
No. 1092104 ID: b491ec

Mock Fang... how exciting!
Now that I think of it, might not have just been a Totem of curses, could have been trying to become a god to avoid death, would have been a misunderstanding of gods, but still possible, and maybe, a failure of a success.
But I have NOT been following this story long enough to know
>>
No. 1092108 ID: 7493dd

>>1092087
Billy as in Billy Goat
Like Nanny is for Nanny Goat
>>
No. 1092110 ID: 7493dd

>>1092087
It could be Bill
for short
Like Nan
>>
No. 1092112 ID: 46e818

>>1092098
She literally showed up IN THIS CHAPTER!
>>
No. 1092113 ID: 46e818
File 171710835003.png - (10.08KB , 800x600 , 2221.png )
1092113

>"Come, I'll introduce you to the others."
>>
No. 1092114 ID: 46e818
File 171710842867.png - (14.35KB , 800x600 , 2222.png )
1092114

"Oh, stuff.

He's hot."
>>
No. 1092119 ID: b491ec

Requiescat In Pace
Erisol
"OH NO HE'S HOT"
>>
No. 1092126 ID: 273c18

>>1092114
Oh. Yeah, I get that.
>>
No. 1092130 ID: aad029

You and Muschio both members of the big and long-faced fanclub, huh?
>>
No. 1092202 ID: eb0a9c

Do you mean that sexually?
>>
No. 1092207 ID: 8f9bc4

pffffffffff
>>
No. 1092237 ID: 945bea

Dawwww so it was THAT sort of nerves. Kind of cute to see this side of her
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No. 1092244 ID: 7493dd

>>1092113
Another member for the long snoot club.
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