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156884 No. 156884 ID: d1210a

[DAY 58]

The day dawns with a broiling see of tempestuous clouds writhing about, rain never quite falling while always threatened. A crack of thunder can be heard in the distance, a dim flash of light through the humid haze of the early day, some distance off. Our whole camp awakens, but only I was about, still pacing to charge the Amaranthine Annihilator, and only I was looking to see it. Through the yellow haze of the predawn hours, just moments before the sun rose, a flash of lightning was visible to the east, far away.... far enough away that it must be in the Azelhaedran State. At first, I think nothing of it, but as the wind picks up and Jojo clutches his pelts about himself as he floats upright, murmuring about a storm, when the lightning flashes again, and thunder lashes across the landscape moments after, the camp now fully alert after the rolling rumbles.

Askeladd looks at the trail before us, and appraises the direction I face, still resolutely staring at a place where lightning has struck twice.... when a third, then rapidly again, a fourth bolt of lightning strike, all in the same place. A violent duet of rumbling thunder passes by as Askeladd comes forward to face me.

"Alright, about two hundred feet farther, up at that pile of stones there, is the official border between Duras and The Azelhaedran State... but this part of the state is still a lawless shambles, so... be aware it will take some time if you want to find a legitimate town to trade in.... Although with the amount of arms you bear, I imagine a skillful diplomat could arrange meetings with Bandit Kings or Mercenary Lord in command of some of the stolen research outposts. But in either case, as you are still heading that direction, we'll just wait here. I'd rather not go to the Azelhaedran territory myself. If memory serves, two days down this rode is a village, and I believe thereafter another village, before a river, where a research outpost claimed by some insurgents, as I was told, can be found. To the north and south both you should find more villages and occasional research outposts, but you would have to follow this rode for four days to reach Corthkota, which is the nearest State loyal city, military outpost and research center. But that does take you past the aforementioned insurgent occupied research outpost... which happens to be in the direction you face. The lightning... it all struck the same place, didn't it? And you're staring at it? Well I hate to break it to you, but that is straight to the insurgents... so I'll say my goodbyes hear. I have no wish to meddle with inexpertly wielded super-weapons, no thank you."

I almost stop to speak with him, but I see a resolution to have concluded conversing imbued in him, and realize that if I do not wish to undo all the false image portrayal, I must let the issue lie. I continue on, and the next time I glance back, the humid morning, now starting to fog as the sun rises, has shrouded Askeladd and the Reavers, and strain as I might, I cannot see them anymore by the time I step onto Azelhaedran State soil.

I am on the road that leads to a village in two days, potentially more villages before a research outpost and finally this Corthkota some four days distant. Before us, even with the sun shimmering in the moist air, visibility is fine, and little fog is present... but the lightning strikes for a fifth time, thunder rolling past once more.


What should I do?
Expand all images
>>
No. 156894 ID: e31d52

To the Lightning!

Really, you have nothing to worry about with electricity, since you've got no heart to stop. I wonder if electromagnetism can work backwards?
>>
No. 156900 ID: 1ac39d

>>156894
yes. that's how generators work. a magnet spins inside of a giant wire coil.
while an electric motor is energy flow causing a magnet to spin.

anyway, let's check the village along the way first before we worry about what is past it.
>>
No. 156904 ID: a6ca77

>>156884

We should definitely try and use derkin to try and infiltrate a nearby town and ask some general and discreet questions about the conflict here.

Things like. Who's winning? What are the insurgent's grievances? How many sides are there? Derkin can claim he's a traveler or something that wandered into this area...
>>
No. 156905 ID: d1210a

>>156894
>>156900
I march onwards, towards the lightning. After all, I have no heart that need risk being stopped, no reason to fear a bolt of lightning as far as I can see. I lead Oggroth, clad in heavy plate with his ball and chain attached to a runed hammer to create his own personal weapon which he proves devastating with, riding atop his new war beast, and Ugrokk, the surprisingly stealthy Premen with a penchant for axes, both of them commanding ten Premen apiece, all armed and armored with equipment custom made for them by the renowned smith Del Rogo, in exchange for a wealth in rubies. Jojo, a Premen mage with strange powers, follows along with our group, supported by an unseen magic, fully mobile despite his emaciated and from appearances cripple body. Arkus, the mage in training I captured when I first woke to sapience, sits atop the disk of bronze i carry, perusing the sketching of several runes we have found during our time the the lands of Duras. Derkin, a recently freed bandit and our newest member, leads the two carts we now own, with the bag of 140 Duran marks, the worth of some forty seven, forty eight heads of prime steer, as well as a goodly supply of canvas, used to cover all the supplies that we pillaged from our war on the Duran bandits.

The day wears on as our group of twenty six continues to trek forward, the lighting flashing some dozen more times before ten minutes pass, before it finally stops. Most interesting. The rest of the day proves uneventful, but rain starts to threaten more heavily in the darkening clouds, and as night falls droplets begin to fall. I decide to maintain our march, and none argue as we continue to seek a place for shelter. We march on, late into the night, all grabbing what food we need as we march.

[DAY 59]

The rains continue unabatingly, but through the Premen's impressive stamina and my decision to simply transport the humans on my hand, we manage to reach a town by mid-day, the rain still unceasing, but the temperature has slowly climbed since the early morning, and the chill is not nearly as biting as it was earlier, and none complain. When we arrive in the town, I find some several dozen villagers huddled up defensively about an old man, awaiting out arrival. The old man calls out to me, in turns sounding fearful and angry.

"What do you want?!"


How should I respond? And what should I say?
>>
No. 156908 ID: 1ac39d

a place for your men to rest. and ask if the bandits that plague them come from the direction you are going.
>>
No. 156926 ID: e2020c

Respond in kind, but have a convincing tone of voice. Ask if they've seen the bandits and in which direction.
>>
No. 156938 ID: a6ca77

>>156908
>>156926

I'm against saying we're anti-bandit immediately. We're pretty close to bandit territory, so there is a chance this guy is one of their informants or something...

Hmm...even though I'm against immediately giving away our position...I can't really think of any better way of getting information/trust though...
>>
No. 157021 ID: 9462ad

>>156938
Placing my vote with the cessation of the bandit hunting for now. We have to get more info before we reveal ourselves as hostile.

Well, I guess its time to spread word of ourselves again, and it has occurred to me that we are likely to be hunted by people who want to know how we control the golem from afar... oh well comes with the territory.

"Greetings, I am Mage Modre. I seek refuge from the elements for my men"
>>
No. 157206 ID: d1210a

>>156908
>>156938
>>157021
I trudge forward, slipping into my role of mage Mordre as I address the villagers while the rain starts to finally worsen, slowly becoming a deluge.

"Greetings, citizens of The Azelhaedran State! This golem you see before you is controlled by I, the mage Mordre, And I seek refuge from the elements for my apprentice and other followers. They have been awake and marching for quite some time, And they need some rest. I'll admit I could also use some more current news, Should you be willing to speak with me."

At first the villagers recoil as my words ring out, having been looking at Arkus previously, but as I make claim to being a mage commanding the golem, much the same as they had assumed was the case, they seem to settle down. Putting together my polite address and the relatively uniform appearance of my troops, despite their scale, the villagers seem to relax, releasing fears of being attacked or pillaged. But the village elder, as I presume the one they gather about must be, seems to remain skeptical

"For what reason would a mage with such resources come here?
I must know this before our village could welcome you,
We cannot afford to make enemies."

I consider the old man, and estimate there is a realistic possibility that they might feed information to local forces, be they insurgent, rogue, or state, and so decide to sum my cover, both to establish some credence, and to give a relatively neutral presented reason.

"I am here for several reasons, actually. I am here to gain field data on their performance, That is, the Alchemical warriors you see with me. I am also here to show some State magic to this one, My apprentice, Arkus. Of course, I have no intention of seeing civilians come to harm, So if you do not mind, I would very much like to get my fellows inside."

My persistent courtesy seems to be weighing heavily in my favor, as the established high esteem for mages I was told would be found here now surfaces, as villagers intent on ingratiating themselves to a mage now hound their elder, who finally relents.

"...Of course, my apologies, this is no time to bandy words. Please, bring your men this way, we have an old barn that should suffice to house all of them. My name is Velneth, and I am sorry if I have offended, but times have been harsh."

As Velneth finishes tottering over to the barn, and making sure the roof is holding soundly while my followers get under it's cover, he steps inside with us, the whole village now starting to gather about the barn. As the two carts, are brought in, I am thankful for the chill inside and the fact we placed a cloth over Verther's corpse, as that could have made this introduction go poorly. After we manage to get everything stowed away, I turn to find the elder and some half the village crowded into the barn, the elder looking irritated, the villagers filled with wonder.

"..Now, while I would prefer to ask you this in private, as you can see it has been some time since a mage has passed through our little town. So, if I may, sir mage, could you be more specific about why you are here? I mean, to do 'field tests' of your warriors, ah, you would need to fight someone, yes? Who are you planning to gain this 'field test' data from, as it were? I hate to be so intrusive, but there are certain sorts we can't afford to shelter, I am afraid to say."


How should I respond?
>>
No. 157213 ID: 445c48

Depends. You've found that just walking around will have plenty of test subjects just throw themselves at you.
>>
No. 157224 ID: 2aaaf1

>>157206
"Lets be honest, this state is full of greedy fools hellbent upon seeking power through means they will never understand, causing massive collateral damage to villages such as your own. The governing powers will not intervene because they only give a damn about their own affairs. Tell me, would you beg and cry out for me to stop if the people of this village were suddenly freed of bandits and mercenaries ransacking their homes? Is that not a more favorable lifestyle than huddling in a terrified mass everytime a group of strangers comes within a hundred feet of your village?"
>>
No. 157227 ID: 582d28

>>157213
Lol

>>157224
second
>>
No. 157275 ID: 445c48

>>157213
Allow me to clarify. Say something along the lines of "Oh, whoever. Honestly, just walking around with my men tends to attract plenty of willing... Research Assistants."
>>
No. 157520 ID: d1210a

>>157224
>>157227
>>157275
>>157224
"Oh, anyone, really, could serve to make field data. Tromping this golem about tends to attract plenty of that sort of attention, Without my need to seek out foes. I imagine someone will aggress our group, at which point I shall find my 'data'. But let me table these talks about my personal research, I am not very familiar with the state of... the State, So perhaps you could tell me more current news? As far as I know, rogue elements have claimed much of the state, Using the weapons they find in the stolen research outposts to run rampant, leaving many villages much like your own in lack of proper protection. The State is still a long ways away from offering relief to the more distant citizens, Is this not so? And I have heard tell of insurgents of some sort as well. Honestly, the situation here sounds hectic enough without me bumbling about, Unwittingly making things worse while I travel due to lack of knowledge. Perhaps you all could assist with that?"

Whatever the town elder may have been about to say, he is drowned out by a deluge of voices, the crowd about us now pithcing in their own bits of knowledge. It proves a chore to even pull specific bits of data from the flood of words. As people start to repeat data points paraphrased to their own mannerisms enough, I elect to afford some measure of reliability to the claim, and after a surprisingly short time of sifting through all they say, I find several points pop up several times:

-This village is called Trekel.
-Trekel has been mostly safe from harm, too far from any outpost to be targeted.
-Trekel views The Azelhaedran State positively.
-To the south a Mercenary group has gained claim to some three or four research facilities.
-To the north, a group of bandits has gained command of at least one facility
-Neither group has bothered Trekel, the Bandits are busy fighting someone north of them, the mercenaries busy building new fortifications with nearby villagers to provide labor.
-The Insurgents are/were citizens upset at the condition of the State.
-The Insurgents have claimed three research outposts in total, the nearest directly down the road that cuts through the village.
-Trekel has mixed sentiments towards the insurgents, as they have fought the bandits and those who hold research outposts, but they also forcibly conscript citizens, and seize goods from villagers.
-There are some five other villages nearby, but travel is rare considering the lawless state of the land, so their status is unknown.

It takes the Trekel elder some time, but finally he manages to quiet the villagers, once more addressing me.

"Well, if you manage to get rid of bandits and in general restore order to the State, I imagine only other vagabonds would find this disagreeable. I do request that you not engage any military force that identifies itself as part of the state.... not that one has been seen in these parts for some time. ...So, do you plan to stay long in Trekel, or do you plan to move on after the rains stop? You do have some rather.... large... followers, and if you stay for any prolonged period, food may become an issue. Several of our fields have been appropriated by some opportunistic raiders, and food has grown somewhat scarce, so we have little to offer, I am afraid."

It would seem I am no longer being questioned with such scrutiny, even the village elder now accepting my presence, at least for the moment. I have gained a great deal of information, and now I wonder, what shall I do with all the new-found data?


What should I say or do?
>>
No. 157592 ID: 2aaaf1

>>157520
Alrighty, it seems to me that we've got our work cut out for us. We should definitely go rub out those bandits in the north first, having our own base of operations will REALLY help us here. Methinks we should also make friends with the mercenary group in the south. The insurgents, as much as I would like to sympathize with them, must either be done away with or brought to justice in the towns they've plundered. It's one thing to fight for something you believe in; their cause IS a valid one given that the state is almost in shambles, but extorting the already slighted villagers? Hell, thats worse than not fighting at all. If we do manage to take out the bandits + the insurgents, thats four outposts under our control. The only thing that worries me is that we won't have enough forces to split between four outposts, but if they are small enough, I think a bit of Magnetomacy might solve our problem.


But that's just thinking ahead, what we need to right now is prove that we're not just going to mooch off of these people. Ask what we can do to make ourselves useful. In fact, tell the premen to go hunting and set up some traps around the perimeter of the village. We could cut down some trees as well, and fortify the crap out of this place.
>>
No. 157603 ID: 4b28de

I am also in favor of walking North and bashing the bandits against whoever they're fighting, if bandit hunting here would prove ineffectual. Ask the Elder which would be more effective, if possible. If the northern bandits are fighting the state, question the state about it's problems. If insurgents, question the insurgents about the problems they want to express, if nameless horrors the bandits unleashed from their research outpost, help bandits kill/tame the beasts and then kill the bandits until they get the message of cut that out and stop unleashing things from the great wheel, or the glass tubes, or the sphere or where ever said nameless horror crawled out from.

Also, ask where the other villages are so we can check in on them later, if we need to. If possible have Derkin and/or Arkus start a map of where we have been so we know the lay of our future empire.

Also, are Jojo and Arkus still trying to talk their magic language? Suggest that Arkus continue on that, and offer some of our own suggestions to the pile. Of course, this is a 'while we can' suggestion, not to be enacted right now, but whenever Arkus, Jojo, or ourselves has a chance to talk.
>>
No. 157608 ID: 4b28de

Question-note: Do we still have our bushbeard? Because we should totally still have our bushbeard and we should put it on and stroke it when we think.

Actually, we should try and adopt some mannerisms the next time we talk. Start stroking out 'beard' as we think. Something so we build up the eccentric character of a wise, of slightly foolish, mage who is the only one who can control a Soulgrave from a great distance. Other suggestion: Tea Breaks!
>>
No. 157626 ID: 427807

lets stay away from insurgents for now, we should get a better understanding of the situation before we get involved.

Lets find the nearest bandit-owned research facility and establish a base there, so arkus can continue his studies
>>
No. 157655 ID: a6ca77

>>157626

I agree with this. Let's kill the bandits first b/c they are on nobody's side. So by killing them we gain favor with everyone.

I also agree with avoiding the government vs insurgent struggle for now. We don't know which side has a more "legitimate" reasons. And even if one side has an extreme moral high ground, we may not want to ally with them b/c they are losing horribly.
>>
No. 157733 ID: c8dcba

I like the idea of the map and support the idea of taking out the bandits if possible. If possible we should scout them first though. I also think we do need to help with the magic language a bit more now that we know magic ourself.
>>
No. 157742 ID: d1210a

>>157592
>>157603
>>157626
I decide that while the insurgents and the state both seem a bit too shallowly understood to interact with just yet, the bandits to the north sound like straightforward target. However, I feel that I should start working towards the creation of a better opinion of my group, by performing some sort of service for the town of Trekel while I stay here. I consider how the rain means nothing to me, and that I have shown myself capable of using my blade launcher to fell trees, coupled with the forests I have seen about the landscape. While certainly not as tall as the red trees of the Duran forest, these trees bear thick, massive trunks, all their branches and fruit growing from the very summit of the obelisk-like trunk that comprises the majority of the tree's bulk. I estimate such trees could very easily converted into thick enough logs to erect a sturdy wall about the village, and considering that I need not stop for rest or sleep, and could carry whole trees myself.

I turn to Arkus and Jojo both after taking a bite out of the bronze disk and setting it down, and explain my desire to see them resume working on the magic based language, and learning more of each of their languages. Jojo informs me that he only briefly heard of the language from the Drazken shamans, but that he shall endeavor to learn. Arkus agrees readily enough, admitting that by now he has read the few book we salvaged enough times to have memorized them, or near enough. I turn to the elder and townspeople of Trekel, and make an offer in a move to gain support.

"Well, I happen to need to run some mobility tests, To make sure I am attuning myself properly to the Soul Grave, of course. For this test, I imagine I shall be generating a large amount of lumber, And a need to drive it into the ground, testing strength capacities and such. Tell me: Could the village of Trekel do with a wall?"

I see smiles brighten faces at my proclamation, but the elder immediately calls out several names, and some two dozen residents step forth, looking a bit confused. The elder simply addresses them, while speaking to me betwixt his commands to the villagers, intent on seeing industrious use of time.

"Go grab your tools for gathering, and the largest sacks, follow this kind mage and check the canopies of the trees he fells, look for fruits, eggs, birds, anything worth salvaging. I want the rest of you to be ready at the warehouse with as many bags, baskets and barrels as we have, as much wood as a golem this size could fell should have a wealth of bounty in their branches. ..Ah, my apologies if I offended, but we must be diligent when resources appear, with our fields still controlled by bandits. If it is no obstruction to your... 'tests,' may we villagers follow along?"

"If the weather does not offend you, As you must endure it in person, Then by all means, follow me on my evaluations."

I briefly command my followers to stay and rest, and that should the rains stop before I finish my task, that they should start hunting and planning traps and earthworks that could be used to the benefit of Trekel. I march out into the rain with the majority of Trekel's population still running about to get ready, and march out into a patch of forest nearby, sending my blades whirling out with a firm grip on their paths through Magnetomancy. Trees fall in droves, and I simply grasp a trunk in my hand before it falls with the rest, lopping off the sprout of canopy on the top and cutting a point into one end with the Sable Executioner, before I start appraising the village's perimeter. In the time it took me to do this, little has happened in the village, eyes staring in wonder, before the elder starts yelling and action resumes. I plant the first part of the wall about the village of Trekel as the villagers start to swarm about, and resume my toil.

Night has fallen by the time the villagers stop following my progress, simply because they have packed all their containers full of edibles from the trees, and they won't have things packed away so the containers may be reused till sometime tomorrow, but the elder promises me there will be little sleep in the village, and none will complain. I continue to work, setting tree trunk after tree trunk as a slowly growing wall about the village proper, laboring unceasingly through the night.

[DAY 60] ONE MONTH HAS PASSED, -1 SOUL AS FUEL (total: 471)

Some time before dawn, when I have some third of the wall up, working with the same intensity I had the moment I started, I consider that all this effort is likely providing a wonderful charge to my Amaranthine Annihilator. Several hours later, as the wall approaches halfway done, with the sun climbing, the rain finally stops. The Premen exit the shed some time thereafter, still in their gear, though their weapons discreetly left within the barn, make their way out to the wall I have started, and begin making an earthwork ramp, an artificial hill to complement the new barricade and provide better protection. They have made considerable progress by the time the Trekel villagers finally start to emerge, but they set to their work with a much greater will, flooding into the mass of discarded tree tops to harvest more fruit and anything else of worth they can find. For some several hours after that everyone labors toward their own pursuits, all aware the others worked towards a similar goal, if along a different path, and I surmise that the fleshlings feel at least some form of empathy over this act. A useless sentiment, but one I should be aware of if I am to be a competent leader.

While the fleshlings, Premen and human alike all take a break to have a meal, one of the Premen brought over my bronze disk, and after I grabbed a few bites I set back to my work. The day is once more returned to communal work after the meal, and until night falls I labor alongside many, but the villagers retire with the sun, having salvaged all they could while the light remained. The Premen work alongside me much later into the night, slowly catching up to me with their earthwork modifications. They finally retire deep in the night, after having run out of room, at last having reached me. Oggroth and Ugrokk both nod at one another before they return to the barn with the rest of the Premen, and I once more labor alone.

[DAY 61]

As dawn finally arrives I drive the last stake into the ground, finishing a wall surrounding the village save for the road that passes through, with several trunks set aside at each entrance. I enter the barn after circling the village once to assess the overall wall, and ask the Premen to finish the earthworks, as the wall is up. They set to work without complaint, and I see the elder exiting his house, already asking a question.

"..So, what kind of defensive implement do you have planned for the road? I'll admit we don't have all that much rope, should that matter for whatever setup you think is best. No one has a horse either, and... well, we haven't had a trader or much of any visitors in a while, so I don't know how open the road really needs to be. What do you think, honorable mage Mordre?"


What type of defense should I suggest for a road some ten feet wide, with sheer tree trunks and relatively little rope to work with? And after I complete the final defenses, should we do anything more here before we travel north to seek a bandit controlled research outpost? Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 157749 ID: 4b28de

No idea about more defences, but ask the elder if there are any local bandit camps we can break up as we travel north. nd just where these five other villages are - map making, remember?
>>
No. 157763 ID: c8dcba

Definitely need to get to map making when we get a chance. What are the limbs and leaves like from the trees? Sometimes those can be formed to make crude ropes if of the proper material. Otherwise I think a series of logs stuck in the road like the walls or earthen barriers designed more as road blocks to keep people from rushing in at a straight line would work if there's no rope or chains available.
>>
No. 157766 ID: 903f16

We could always build a gatehouses at both entrances. Have the things fitted with a couple of arrow slits, a murder hole or two, and a portcullis at the front with heavy doors at the actual entrances of the town. While we're working on that have the townspeople draw us a map, perhaps making known safe routes and areas of interest. The town and our crew should be fit for battle after all that and we could get a move onto more bandit slaying.
>>
No. 157780 ID: bbdfae

>>157766
That would require a bit more time and effort than we're likely able to provide with nothing more than tree trunks and a small amount of rope. Also, as far as I know we're not even an amateur carpenter- at best, we could run a few more "weapons tests" to slash the logs into generally desired shapes.

Anyway, any defenses are only as good as the people manning them, and making the town too bastion-like would only make them a tempting location for someone else to capture and fortify.
>>
No. 157783 ID: 1ac39d

i would say a nice gate would do. use magnetomancy to make some nails to hold the trunks together.
>>
No. 157784 ID: 2aaaf1
File 127018653462.jpg - (47.42KB , 610x1167 , initial layout.jpg )
157784

>>157742
If it would be possible, construct a medium sized tower in the middle of the village. Dig out the bottom first to make a floor of the tower underground, make this big enough to fit most of the residents plus their important crops/resources. The surface level segment of the tower will be the entry point, this level will have it's own walls for protection, adorn the ground inside the walls with any traps the premen can manange. The final floor, should be littered with tiny "windows" so that any villagers trained with bows can take pot-shots at any incoming raiders. The general idea of the tower is to give Trekel a place to fall back to in case of pillagers, because even with a wall, defending from two sides while everyone panics is NOT a winning combination. The tower gives these people a place that they can defend from without having to engage bloodthirsty gangs of bandits.
Stop me if I'm being too ambitious.
>>
No. 157787 ID: 1ac39d

>>157784
if you want to hang here for a month then sure we can do this. but we are not going to stand around that long, our premen want fights and while they understand a good defense these are warriors not builders.
>>
No. 157795 ID: 2c654c

I would suggest some elaborate DF class defensive system but we are on a schedule.
Voting for wooden gate held together with Magnet crafted nails. Fortified with holes to shoot arrows through.
You can make the holes with the Sable Executioner and the villagers can smooth and cover it. Fortifying the walls around it in like manner would be good too.
I just thought, If you can take the drill from the AGC out, you can use it to make holes for the fortifications.
>>
No. 157796 ID: 2aaaf1

>>157787
I just want to make these people self-sufficient, I don't wanna come back here and find their heads on pikes and the village burning.

Hey wait a minute-
>rope
>wood
>random sharp objects
Can't we just make these guys some cheapass flails and tell Oggroth to Mulan the crap out of Trekel?
>>
No. 157805 ID: d1210a

>>157763
>>157766
>>157780
I ask the elder to construct a map of every known trail in the area, and where the nearby villages and research outposts are, as far as they know. He accepts my request with a bow, returning to his house immediately thereafter.

I work to drive several tree trunks into the ground as a screen forcing any attempting to pass to slow and make their way warily about, lest they crash. I then add a lip to the inside of the wall about each entrance, and cut out some arrow slits for the villagers, having noted at least some bore bows when foraging amongst the tree tops. Sadly, the wood's sturdiness, so useful as a wall, makes it's branches nonviable for using as any form of rope, so I abandon the treetops as I appraise the towns new defenses, the Premen finish expanding the earthworks the whole way about the village. While certainly not impregnable, this village now has a far more solid line of defense about their homes.... and I hope to find the elder awaiting me with a map. And besides, with the weight these branches represent, I doubt I could manufacture any form of hinge that could bear them, nor make a method for the villagers to manage such a heavy gate without excessive amounts of rope. So I feel pleased when I see the dense screen prevent issue when a Premen tries to pass it swiftly, his should catching and wrenching him to a standstill before he finally makes hi way through. Some simple pikes and spears could make trying to pass such a barrier a deathtrap, and with the arrow slits along the inner walls... well, I imagine the villagers can at least make use of this.

I reenter the town with the Premen, to find a feast to have been laid out while we completed our labor on giving the village a general fortification, and at the sight of how much Oggroth slavers as he unhinges his helmet to drool at the food, I cannot help but send the Premen on with orders to eat as if at a formal gathering, to prevent any clash of culture (I hope), after the elder assures me that with the food they gained while I built the walls, they could feed us a dozen times over to bursting and still have plenty for themselves. They seem to have nearly filled their warehouse with honey, fruits, some fungus, eggs, birds and a few snakes, their rations bountiful, and while they will do what they can to render some able to be stored for a long time, much of this will waste if not eaten. So I can reward the Premen without damaging my image as a considerate mage, excellent.

The elder shows me a roughly sketched map, with Trekel in the center.

-to the north, the woods stay intermittent, with some three villages interspersed throughout, before a general area is circled as having the bandit controlled research outpost they heard about somewhere within.
-farther north, a question mark has been drawn after some few more villages.
-to the east, the main road continues past another village before the research outpost marked as being along a river, labeled as belonging to the insurgents.
-farther east, some area is shown as belonging to the state, an outpost called Corthkota and several villages encircled and noted as safe. An arrow points farther east and simply says State.
-to the south, two villages are nearby, before some goodly distance below several more villages are drawn, clustered about several research outposts, all marked as under the control of the mercenaries mentioned earlier.

Interesting.... I hear the elder draw breath, and attend to his speech.

"This is as best we can tell accurate, though the more distant places might have out of date names, some news is old... anyway, I wanted to once more apologize for viewing you with such suspicion when you arrived, but with the food and defenses you provided us with, we can easily fend off at least roaming bandits, if not those armed from an outpost. Heh, but then, fighting someone warmed with magic weaponry like that would be a fools game for us. ...I have to ask though, even though you have helped us so much.... will you help us yet again? Our farm fields, to the south and north both, have been taken over by some vagabonds, and we cannot use our own fields. The food we gained now will only last so long, and without our fields, we could only prosper for so long...."


What should I say or do?
>>
No. 157809 ID: 445c48

Sure, why the hell not, you probably have to anyways, to "acquire test data" and keep your cover. Inquire about the vagabonds. How many? Any known group affiliations? Are they scruffy looking nerf herders or gruff-looking professionals?
>>
No. 157810 ID: 2c654c

Gain allies + satisfy Premen war-lust? I say that equals win, though I am still wary from the 'warm welcome' the Yeti gave us.
>>
No. 157828 ID: 2aaaf1

>>157805
Clearing out the farms shouldn't be too much of a problem, it's protecting them from further assaults that disturbs me. Without further tools and knowlege, the most we could do for these people is make more wooden walls. Perhaps when we get to raiding that bandit controlled outpost, we'll find something to boost defensive capabilities.
>>
No. 157852 ID: d28415

getting the peoples fields back sounds like a good start, means we can get food from them at a later point. so head north first?
>>
No. 157900 ID: a6ca77

>>157809

Do this. Scout + Information gather...then we'll hit them like the goddamn 20 ton box of metal we are...
>>
No. 157927 ID: 2aaaf1

When we do ANYTHING regarding the bandits in their farm lands, do it at night. They will most likely torch the place the moment they see us, because fighting a giggantic metal man isn't worth the free meal ticket they have now.
>>
No. 157941 ID: 4b28de

>>157809
Note to everyone: Vagabonds =/= bandits. Let us find out about these people. Vagabonds could be a useful information network. If they are bandits, wipe them out.

Yes, yes, very social and not the warrior-like, but we're going to build an empire. We need to be a scalpel and not the battle ax. Sad, yes, but a truth we need to understand here.
>>
No. 158046 ID: d1210a
File 127024287059.jpg - (52.61KB , 700x454 , Northern Field House.jpg )
158046

>>157809
>>157810
>>157828
>>157852
>>157900
>>157927
>>157941
I consider the northern field to be a likely target: If I claim the bandit-occupied research outpost to the north, then there should be little risk of new tenets to the field from that direction after I purge the bandits, and as the villagers have a much more defensible home now, they could at least fend off minor threats to the field, or so I hope. Besides, I imagine the Trekel elder labeled the occupants as vagabonds for a reason, perhaps they have a reason for their displacement I might find relevant. Finally, the northern field is along the way to the bandit-owned research outpost, or so the map implies. Not needing to deviate from my path aids my decision making process.

"Well, I do have tests to perform, true enough, But the northern field seems to be marked as along the way, To those venturing towards the bandit-occupied facility. Since it is right along the way, I see no reason to not stop in, And assess the situation. But I do need to be off, so once I have freed up your northern field, Keeping it safe, and the possible reclamation of the southern field, Will have to fall on your shoulders for now. I have to establish a legitimate base of operations here as soon as possible, Before I can start worrying about restoring order in it's totality. Between the food you gained, your new defenses and the northern fields, I imagine you shall fare a great deal better after my departure."

I glance about the area, noting that the feasting seems to be winding down, and give the Premen orders to clean themselves up and claim their gear, we shall be marching soon. As they make their way to the barn, I motion to the elder to show me the way to the northern fields, hoping to prevent him from trying once more to gain my assistance with the southern fields as well. His insistent requests that continue even as I provide significant aid has proven to be somewhat irritating, and I would rather simply move on for now, lest I break my cover. After mumbling to himself for a moment the elder starts tottering along, refusing the aid of a villager offering a cane, and slowly marches out of the village, heading to the north. I periodically take a step or two forward, keeping abreast of my aged guide, and after some time the Premen, Arkus and Derkin are all arrayed behind my, Oggroth having hung the bronze disk about his mount's neck as makeshift armor, while Derkin and Arkus both carry the many documents and journals Arkus carries. After a period where the entirety of our group slowly plods along behind the Trekel elder, he points out a set of plain fields, with a large building with a barn and silo beside it roughly in the middle.

"The vagrants holed up in there, and shoot arrows at us if we get too close. They haven't come out to attack us beyond that, but they haven't answered us when we tried addressing them beyond shooting at us. After Beloy got an arrow in the shoulder, we stopped trying to talk to them. Please, sir mage, anything you can do we appreciate."

I peer at the buildings more closely, and note that I can see planks nailed into most windows, leaving only a few slits through which arrows could fly, but otherwise, I see no movement about the buildings whatsoever. As the town elder starts to make his way back to town, I consider our options as my group and I stand several hundred feet away from the buildings in the center of Trelek's northern fields.


What should I do?
>>
No. 158062 ID: 445c48

1) Fire Cannon into wall
2) Charge through new door
3) Feast on delicious souls nomnomnom
>>
No. 158086 ID: 23bee4

>>158062
Hush.

>>158046
Walk forward and bellow out from them to come out and talk. Ask them their grievances and what caused them to become to defend this house so fervently. Tell them that if they do not stop shooting arrows at you will break apart this house and rend them limb from limb and stem to stern and devour their souls - that is if the Elder is out of listening range at this point, of course. As we walk forward, and they haven't stopped shooting or answered, we ram our hand through the wall and pull out one of the vagabonds, still engaging them in polite conversation. This is of course staying true to the fact that they are just going to shower us with arrows - which we much magnetically direct toward ourselves and our least important parts.
If this is not the case and they start with stuff that can damage us, we just charge the wall and disable everyone - slice tendons, bash them just hard enough, etc, etc.
>>
No. 158088 ID: a6ca77

>>158062

I disagree with this. We should try and kill them without destroying the buildings...I'm not exactly sure about how best to go about it, but considering the level of threat they supply...I don't think it will be difficult...
>>
No. 158090 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158062
"Knock-knock."
>>
No. 158092 ID: 445c48

>>158088
Yes, you're right, I guess we should talk a little. Stand a good deal away from the house and shout "Oi, what's all this then". If they don't answer, shout "Come on now, I haven't got all day." If they still don't answer, see >>158062

>>158088
I'm not advising collapsing the building, just putting in a new door. We could just board over it.

And actually now that I read the description of the building more closely, I doubt we will even have to fire the cannon. Just walk through the wall.

Or maybe we could send out ghosts.
>>
No. 158098 ID: 45be60

Dude, guys, what is hard about this? Walk up to the building. What are they gonna do, shoot arrows at you? You are a giant scary golem, they are not going to ignore your requests to parley over the alternative of just dying like punks.
>>
No. 158103 ID: d1210a
File 127024881256.jpg - (59.60KB , 700x523 , Northern Field House Approached.jpg )
158103

>>158086
I advance on the house, leaving my compatriots to stay out of range as I approach the house. As I trundle forward, an arrow sails out, and strikes my shoulder. It deflects off without causing any harm, but I note it has no arrow head, just a sharpened tip to the wooden shaft. Without any metal in the arrows, I cannot alter their paths, not that such pittances as this could harm me. I turn to look back, noting the elder is still walking, long out of hearing range, well on his way back to the village. I turn back to the mass of buildings as I near them, and address the occupants as a second arrow impacts my form with similarly negligible results.

"I would know your grievances, occupants of these houses, As the villagers of Trekel wish to regain their fields, And once more grow crops on the lands you have let become fallow. Perhaps I can convince you to leave peacefully?"

The arrows continue to come intermittently, and no voices respond. Indeed, I still have not been able to see any occupants, though the arrow slits are narrow enough that the interior is all but obscured in shadow. I continue to march forward, and as I draw nearer to the house call out once more as arrows continue to rain down on me to no effect.

>>158088
>>158092
"Now what kind of welcome is this for a mage? I know the golem I'm controlling is a bit imposing, But it must be obvious I am here to talk, not fight, And besides, I don't expect your arrows will do you any good. Now, I ask again, tell me why you have claimed this home, And refuse entry to the owners?"

Again, there is no response, and again, there is no change in the rate of arrows fired at my form, sneaking out of the cracks between the boarded windows whenever I look away. One more time I try addressing the house as I draw within some several dozen feet of it, letting irritation bleed into my voice.

"Now I have tried being polite, but this is not your home: Either parlay with me, or be ready to be forcibly ejected."

I make my way down the stone steps built into the ground about the boarded building, and as I draw near, taking the lack or response as a reason to simply break my way in and slaughter the inhabitants, I hear a voice, soft, broken, and raw..... and filled with fear.

"...R-rrr...R-ruun.... Run awaay..."

I pause, my fist still poised, ready to smash a hole in the wall, as I assess the voice. It continues to mumble in incoherent fear, over and over saying 'Run away,' the words broken and disjointed, before the voice simply fades away. I turn to my right as I hear a rock fall, noting that a stone dislodged from one of the retaining walls.... and that there seems to be a door around the corner, from the sound of squeaking hinges. The rain of arrows continues in the same sporadic rate evidenced since I got close enough to the house.


What should I do?
>>
No. 158115 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158103
"Fool, come speak with me. If you run, you die. I can pursue you for days if need be. I wish to see an end to this idiocy, as do the inhabitants of the village Trekel. NOW, WE WILL HAVE WORDS, OR WE WILL HAVE BLOODSHED. THE CHOICE IS YOURS."
>>
No. 158121 ID: 2c654c

Kids?
>>
No. 158129 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158121
What? How would that even be possible? We're being pelted by arrows right now. You're telling me a whole group of orphans aquired and learned how to use a bunch of bows, and then holed up here? Well in any case, lets go check that door and see just what we're dealing with.
>>
No. 158131 ID: 2c654c

>>158129
What your saying its not possible? Of course it is. That for one would explain why they don't answer. If people figure out that they are kids then they are in trouble.

But yea that was just an out-of-the-blue guess.
>>
No. 158132 ID: a6ca77

>>158103

We should be very cautious at this stage. Either that person was afraid of us or it is afraid of something else and was trying to warn us or something. Prudence dictates we be cautious in case the second scenario is true...
>>
No. 158137 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158131
Not saying it ISN'T possible, just unlikely. A bunch of kids running around shooting things with arrows in a place like this? I'm really suprised they've not been blown to smithereens, what with the bandits and such waving about powerful experimental magical weapons.
>>
No. 158146 ID: d1210a
File 12702518073.jpg - (81.05KB , 700x525 , Northern Field House Basement Door.jpg )
158146

>>158121
>>158129
>>158132
I consider the possibility of the voice having belonged to a child, and but am unable to be sure with the words no longer audible. I decide that children are relatively unlikely.... but the strange response I am being met with intrigues me. For now, I decide to round the corner the rock dropped from, and appraise the door I believe I hear, hinges groaning harshly in the still day.

As I come about to the side of the house, I spy a door, set low, likely to a basement, closed but devoid of fortification. As I approach, I witness the door thump, the hinges crying out, but no damage is done, and the door remains shut. I observe the door shifting again and again, each time rattling as if something is trying to open it from the insider, yet despite the lack of visible locks, it is strange that whatever is testing the door does not, or cannot open it. As I come to a halt before the door, I make note of the cloud coverage having shifted, practically draining the light out of the landscape about me, the world tinged gray and lifeless. I address the inhabitants, still shooting arrows at me without any hesitation, their assault equally useless and unrelenting, hoping that someone will finally take the time to answer, and this can be resolved with some greater gain than simple souls of stubborn squatters.

"I believe I have been quite tolerant up till now, But my patience and time both wear thin at your response. Now someone, speak with me, or I shall tear this house down about you!"

The arrows continue, and the silence I am met with initially leads me to believe this attempt at communication to be fruitless. But soon enough I hear a quavering voice issuing forth from the door before me, which positively seems to vibrate in it's hinges while the voice slips by.

"Can you let me out? I'm not allowed to leave unless someone opens the door,
And everyone already left.... it's cold and dark down here, and I don't like it."

Oh? A response, finally? But the voice, while clearly that of a child, does not at all match the one I heard earlier, not even remotely. I consider the door before me in the colorless world, watching it jiggle and rattle as if in anticipation of my response.


What should I say or do?
>>
No. 158148 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158146
"What do you mean, -everyone left-? I'm still getting shot at out here." Whatever, open the door.
>>
No. 158154 ID: 58ec1e

>>158146

we might want to force the barn door open, a near silent contionious arrow attack seems pretty odd after seing how it only annoys us. mabey its some sort of motion detecting magic?
>>
No. 158162 ID: 427807

open the door, of course
>>
No. 158165 ID: 45be60

Am I really the only one getting the ghost story vibe here? Don't go doing just whatever any spooky voice tells you to.
>>
No. 158167 ID: 58ec1e

>>158165
thats why i said open the barn door not the celler with the crepy voice
>>
No. 158168 ID: 2c654c

>>158165
Votan
>>
No. 158169 ID: 2c654c

Actually, im getting a reverse Vampire thing here. Needing permission to get out rather than in, funny.
>>
No. 158174 ID: 5f8268

>>158165
Agreed. This is most likely some sort of supernatural creature.
Try to use magnetomancy to sense metals inside. As was mentioned before, bodies contain trace amount of iron inside, so you probably can detect them.
Afterwards, interrogate elder. I think there are couple things he failed to mention.
>>
No. 158175 ID: a6ca77

>>158167
>>158168

Agreed. Let's bust a hole in the wall (non structurally damaging) and make our entrance from there. If it's a trap, we'll at least hold some kind of advantage. If it isn't, then no problem...the kid will be scared for a minute...but thats it...
>>
No. 158188 ID: 445c48

>>158169
I'm kind of thinking the same thing. Can the spirits from your fist phase through walls and such? If so, summon some up and send them in. I wonder if they can report back to you with what they see, or only cut things.

Actually, fuck it, bust open the wall and eat souls.
>>
No. 158190 ID: 58ec1e

i think we are starting to overthink this a bit, lets have a look at the archers and then open up the cellar. rebember were a 10-20 ton soul eating death machine, even if theres some sort of hidious monster in there we can probaly killit with one hand tied behind our back
>>
No. 158208 ID: d1210a
File 127025713828.jpg - (47.79KB , 700x525 , Northern Field Fortified Barn.jpg )
158208

>>158148
>>158162
I begin to reach for the door, the faded colors of the world dwindling even further into a simple gray-scale as my hand approaches the handle, sound fading into a simple drone...

>>158154
>>158165
>>158168
But I hesitate..... the door, no matter how I look at it, is not locked, the most feeble of fleshlings could manage this door so long as they can manage a latch.... so why does the child not open it themselves? And why would they say no one is present when I am still being bombarded with arrows? Something is not right.

>>158174
recalling what Ugrokk saw the presumed Magnetomancer in the woods of Duras do, I cast out my senses, seeking the iron in blood, seeking the inhabitants of the house. ....While I can discern the metals born on body and in blood by my companions still on the edge of the field, I cannot sense any.... wait... down, down below, some several dozen feet beneath the level on which I stand, I can feel the grainy texture of iron in blood, a massive reserve of it situated beneath my feet, but other than that, not a whisper of metal in this house, not even a single tool. Stranger and stranger still.

I activate the Spectral Gorging Anima, and place my hand near the stone walls about the door, and phase the ghostly skull full of teeth and hunger through the stone, before withdrawing my hand, and appraising the skull some time thereafter. It seems clear there was no flesh to be seen, as the skull still seems sluggish, inactive, but otherwise I can tell nothing about what may be within.

As yet another arrow bounces off my head, I decide that before I concern myself with the contents of the basement, that I should deal with the annoying arrows coming down upon my head. I return to the main structure's entrance, making note that color once more seems to return to the landscape, the entry still blocked off with pieces of wood and other obstructions, and prepare to smash down the door, after waiting long enough to be certain the pleading voice does not follow me away from the cellar. After satisfying myself in this respect, I couch my fist, and shatter the door with a swipe of my hand.

I stoop down and peer within the house, to be greeted with a strange scene. A bow floats above the ground, and as I stare orients on me, a simple arrow simply fading into view on the string, before it snaps off, yet another arrow striking my form to no effect. After firing upon me, the bow floats across the floor, occupying a place before a different window nailed mostly shut, and waits as another arrow fades into view. I duck out before the second arrow finds it's mark, but not before making note that before each boarded up window, I saw a charred outline of a body emblazoned on the ground. There may be more to see within the barn, but I would have to make a significantly larger hole to enter, considering my stature. As I ponder what all this could mean, I hear the door to the cellar rattle again, a plaintive cry reaching out to me. Out of curiosity, I once more seek out the iron that could be found in the blood of any human.... and find none near the cellar door, even as it continues to rattle.


What should I do?
>>
No. 158210 ID: 427807

just soulfire! we want whatever is in there to leave. soulfire will kill any humans caught, and will burn the shit out of anything potent enough to attempt to take us on
>>
No. 158218 ID: 1ac39d

no, reverse that. perhaps it is incorporeal spirits, held together by the energy in the place.
>>
No. 158222 ID: 58ec1e

>>158190
as i said, whatever it is we can probaly take it out. open up the barn a bit more and get a proper look inside. see if we can deactivate the magic bow. then see whats in the cellar
>>
No. 158229 ID: e7740e

>>158222
Spirits and ghosts arn't the same ans soldiers. While we're powerful in the physical realm, it's possible we are vulnerable in the spiritual realm. Our great number of souls is likely a help, and IG's power to create soul soldiers might be of use here, but at the very least, we have less knowledge of fighting incorpreal enemies. We should be cautious.
>>
No. 158230 ID: a6ca77

>>158222
I agree with this. In the beginning, I wanted to keep the barn intact so that the villagers would be happy, but our safety comes first...we need to break this barn open...Let us shape the playing field and gain the advantage...rather than playing on someone elses home ground...
>>
No. 158235 ID: 3de05a

There is a spirit doing all of this. Suck it in.

Leave the barn intact.
>>
No. 158236 ID: e7740e

>>158235
This idea has merit. Let's see if consuming whatever ghost is haunting this place is possible.
>>
No. 158270 ID: e7740e

Wait a tic. Is the iron in the blood in the 'Massive reserve' you sense moving? Because generally... If blood isn't moving around, that means it isn't in a living body with a working heart, so that means whatever owns it is dead. Or worse.
>>
No. 158313 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158208
Pull that iron up from the earth, see what follows.
>>
No. 158318 ID: 4b28de

...Fuck. Lets walk back and talk to our mages. We're kinda out of our depth with winning with spirits.

As for suggestions, I'm kinda in favor of talking. Asking what wants out, who bound it, and what happened. However, before soul sucking the thing out, I want to suggest talking to our mages - they might have some suggestions like, I don't know, a malevolent spirit bound to a soulgrave makes it go stupid-crazy.

As a note to everyone: massive reserve. Massive from a think that is giant in and of itself. Of Iron in blood, of which there is only a trace amount of anyway. That's a lot of blood.
>>
No. 158353 ID: 5f8268

>>158208
The whole setup looks rather strange.
Why villagers didn't even try to take the barn by themselves? Yes, they are peasants not warriors but even peasants will fight when pushed far enough, any likely starvation certainly will be such a push. Even crude tower shield made of branches/planks will stop these wooden arrow cold, unless they are enchanted (and if they ARE magical, why elder didn't warned us?)
There are something strange going on with a barn itself, where did that reservoir of the blood came from? Again, why elder didn't said anything about whatever inhabit it? He *had* to knew *something*.
>>
No. 158361 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158353
The villagers couldn't even get close, they stopped once one of their guys got shot. There is something fishy going on here, but I doubt it's the villagers who did it. At any rate, we need to stop dicking around outside and smash our way into that cellar.
>>
No. 158368 ID: 1ac39d

they also weren't near starvation, they still had some food stored so they would likely last at least another week. after that they may have tried to rush the place, but not while food was still easy to get.
>>
No. 158371 ID: d1210a
File 127026796424.jpg - (221.02KB , 1000x754 , Northern Field Celler Entity.jpg )
158371

>>158222
>>158229
>>158230
I appraise the barn once more, ignoring the arrows that periodically fly my way, as I look for a place to seek entry through. At this proximity, I can see the minor shuffle of movement of the bow within floating near to a boarded window beside me, and I act decisively, smashing my hand through the wall to grasp at the floating bow. I wrap my fingers about the aged and worn wood before it can slip away, and find the bow vibrating in my grasp, constantly seeking some method of release. It's frantic struggling eventually ignites the wood through sheer dint of friction against my implacable grip, whispery wails exuding from the wood as it shrivels and chars. Ash stains my hand heavily by the time I finally feel the wood struggle no longer in my grasp, and a black powder flows away from my hand as I tentatively open it, dispersing in the air under the command of the idle winds flitting about. I stand motionless for a time, awaiting further action from the house I have now broken two holes into, through window and door both, waiting for some form of response.

....After enough time has passed some half dozen arrows would have struck me had I not dealt with the bow with no further action from the house, I deduce that whatever magic or spirits may have animated the bow dispersed when it was destroyed. The sudden rattling and groaning of the cellar door once more draws my attention, and as my mind turns to it, a bit of color fades out of the land. I peer into the house before me through both openings again, looking for anything noteworthy that I may have missed, and see nothing that piques my interest.

I step back from the building, and glance at the grain silo, which has presented no form of issue the whole of my time in this field, before dismissing it, noting that it's door stands somewhat ajar, revealing it's barren interior.

>>158270
I reach out once more with Magnetomancy, seeking further data on the mass of grainy iron like that in blood I felt below, checking for movement.... to find the massive reservoir not flowing, but.... throbbing as if in time with some massive heart, simply expanding and contracting with a rhythmic beat.

>>158235
>>158236
Thus far, I feel confident that no mass of spirits can be found in the main building of the silo, leaving only the cellar where noises still emanate as a possible source for what I now feel confident is some form of haunting, the displaced spirits of the dead responsible for what has been witnessed. I sidle up to the door, noting that the vibrant colors of the area once more fall under a pall of gray as I near the door, and simply breath in, attempting to gather up any soul that could be present here. The door rumbles as if in protestation as the voice within pleads with me.

"Stop it it hurts, don't do that. Please, open the door, let me out."

The voice still sounds scared, pitiful.... and abruptly, the voice shifts into surprise.

"..Oh?"

The door bleeds through, it's wood staining black as the knots and swirls in the wood twist and turn. A face pulls into focus, a stark collection of outlines in the colorless realm I see.

"Please, let me out, I don't want to be down here anymore, I am so hungry...."

Again, the voice of a child pull through the wood, echoing from lungs that do not exist. Does this entity know no other method of deception than to sound like a child? But still.... what is it?

>>158318
I wonder what I could learn from Jojo and Arkus on this subject, as I find myself somewhat out of my depth, hauntings and... whatever this may be are not something I have memories pertaining to, sadly enough. I decide to walk away from the door, even as it continues to rattle, the occupant calling out with it's newly formed face mewling at me from the door. I turn the corner, and as I march up the stairs along the side of the house towards the fields, I slowly hear the door cease it's groaning, the voice fading away as I leave the area. I am still unassailed by arrows even as I return, and draw Arkus and Jojo forward to converse, with myself playing the interpreter if need be between them, to see what they can offer me on this find. I explain all that I have observed, noting the fade of color in particular that occurred every time I neared the door, and I see both Jojo and Arkus pale, with Jojo speaking first, Arkus still stunned.

"...If the colors of life fled the land, and it cannot leave on it's own, little else this could be but World Nightmare. Bad thoughts, things of planet, seeking entry to surface, to destroy, to rend asunder. Door must NOT be opened, World Nightmares like avalanche, cannot be fought, might too great. All die if door open. ....But wood door? What to do about when wood rots......"

Arkus finally speaks, his voice abruptly cracking with as much fear as I heard when I first disobeyed his attempts to control me when I first awoke.

"...Hah...haha... that, uh, well.... that sounds exactly like you are describing a Core Being, which, uh, is really bad. Because, if that IS a Core Being, then one of the.... things.... that live way, way down, beneath mountains and miles of stone, closer to the planet's core? Uh, well, some of them have destroyed entire cities when released. And, once one has gotten this close to the surface, it.... ah, it will just wait until the door that blocks it wears away. They do not grow impatient, or leave.... at least, not that I have ever heard. And once they get loose, they.... they rampage about for a week or so, before they... run out of steam, I guess. Usually someone cuts them down once they start getting too weak, but the weird thing is, the ones that die on their own fade away, and the ones that get killed leave nearly static remains, practically untouched by time I am babbling again I am sorry but I would really like to get away from where a Core Being may be.... ah, if, that is, we are actually dealing with a Core Being. It could.... be something else, maybe...."

Interesting....
I see the Premen looking over in interest, Derkin keeping himself out of earshot as he tends to the carts and oxen, clearly trying to stay uninvolved with whatever necessitated all three magic users to converse.


What should I do?
>>
No. 158383 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158371
Could we consult Lenryt about this? Seems to me that this is another "caged one" and Lenryt made short work of that other one.
>>
No. 158384 ID: 58ec1e

>>158383
this sounds like a good idea
>>
No. 158387 ID: 1ac39d

what if it is both? a young core being.

well not that we know what it is we can ask it different questions. such as what it eats, and if we could get food for it. or ask what it will do if it get's out.
>>
No. 158389 ID: d1210a

>>158383
>>158384
[How would you contact Lenryt? You do not know where she is, nor did she leave a means of contact. She said SHE might contact YOU, if the need arises.]
>>
No. 158393 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158389
Well then, ask Arkus what would happen if we ate it whole. It was clearly affected by us merely breathing in, and besides, I'm anxious to see what powers we get from the soul of a core being.
>>
No. 158394 ID: 25302b

Attempting to ingest souls was painful for it? maybe this could be a weapon, or maybe we were pulling it forcefully through the door, and if we keep it up it will escape anyway. Really need further consultation on this.

Build a better door in the meantime. The bow was clearly there to keep people away, and now we have left a powerful engine of destruction defended from the local countryside only by a person's ability to decide when not to open a door. I recomend piling rocks in front of the door while we decide what to do. If rocks are scarce, hey, there is a silo handy.
>>
No. 158395 ID: 3de05a

>>158371
I would like to point out that the bow being there makes no sense if the Core Being wanted to escape. It wants people to open the door, and the bow prevented that.

We just took out the prison warden. This is bad. We need to make sure nobody opens that door, EVER. Unless it's actually a weak Core Being? Ask how we could gauge its strength.

Also, check out the silo. Maybe the person responsible for the bow is in there.
>>
No. 158398 ID: 2aaaf1

Guys, I just realized something. The villagers lost control of their fields in the north AND south. I think we may be dealing with more than one eldritch abomination here.
>>
No. 158401 ID: e7740e

Guys, we also need to get word back to the town that the door needs to not be openned. Maybe send Derkin back, since he's not doing anything right now. We can try building some sort of wall or cover for the door with what we have at hand, and try telling Lenryt or somebody else about this first chance we get so they can take more permanent measures.
>>
No. 158403 ID: e7740e

>>158398
...Ohhhh, crap. Ok, as much as I hate abandoning our current mission towards gaining power, keeping massively powerful destructive entities trapped is more important. We should check the southern field as well just to be safe, and make sure that the villagers don't mess things up and dig up something best left alone.
>>
No. 158412 ID: 445c48

First off, Ask about the "static remains". Then ask if barricading the door or burying it will have any effect. It can't be too... strong? Maneuverable? I mean, maybe just burying it in dirt of logs or something could keep in in place for something more permanent. Could it slip through like spaces between the logs? Also, get Derkin to go back and tell the villagers not to open the goddamn door and to make a sign that says "Don't fucking open this door". Also have him ask about the layout of the building, is there any way to get to the cellar from the inside of the building.

Then go up to the door and start talking to it. Question it about its nature and what it will do if you open the door.

I'm thinking we wall it off for now and eventually make a concrete sarcophagus.
>>
No. 158433 ID: 5f8268

>>158371
Oh, well, so much for my paranoia. :)
I was so certain that it was some sort of trap or result of runaway magic by villagers (remebering yetis).

Lets see... The mass your magnetomancy detected are presumably body of "Core Being"/"World Nightmare" ("Core Nightmare"?)
Check barn carefuly, see if there are some runes that may be rosponsible for containment of creature - most likely people who taken it either did it to restrain CN (unlikely, otherwise they would have warned villagers) or detected it afterwards and managed to cobble warning (and possibly containing) magic.

DON'T try to suck again. Before, it wasn't able to get past door, now it can manipulate it.

Ask Arkus and Jojo everything they know about such entities.
>>
No. 158436 ID: 427807

resorting to my previous post. soulfire the fuck out of that shit
>>
No. 158452 ID: 445c48

>>158436
This seems like an incredibly bad idea!
>>
No. 158456 ID: e7740e

>>158436
...

>>158452
Agreed.
>>
No. 158471 ID: d1210a
File 127027728616.jpg - (165.09KB , 600x487 , Crawling Monster.jpg )
158471

>>158394
>>158395
>>158401
>>158412
I ask Arkus and Jojo both, about what could be done to seal this creature, and prevent it from being released by idle curiosity. I mention simple earthworks, with a stone or wood barrier about the door to keep it safe. Both agree that the door must be buried, as at the very least, it marks the location of the threat, a sufficient amount of burying makes it unfeasible someone not actively seeking it will ever reach the door, and it allows some measure of safety while the threat is still present. Perhaps a solution can be found afterward, but they agree a stopgap measure is crucial. I call out to Derkin, and tell him to travel back to Trelek, and tell them something dangerous was found on the farmland, and that an earthen bunker is being erected about it. For now, they should NOT try to dig in or directly interact with the bunker, for any reason.

I order the Premen to gather stones while I set to disassembling the building above, salvaging timber as I can, seeking only well-aged, un-rotted lumber. As I bob in and out of proximity to the cellar door, I see color flashing as it writhes in and out of my vision, but I pay it no mind, and shortly I have a healthy selection of suitable planks of wood, and the Premen have returned with a wealth of stones. We set to creating a solid, well braced and snug barrier about the door, ignoring the face and the pleading it offers us. After we seal the edges up as best we can, we keep the crude walls braced as we slowly mound up more and more dirt, burying the door under meters of earth before we stop. Several tons of earth now bury the door, and they seem to ablate whatever force it contains enough that even standing above it the full spectrum is visible. Still, it took us until midway into the night to finish, and now that we have rendered the issue somewhat contained, we retire to a temporary camp...

>>158398
>>158403
...Until I realize the village has some TWO fields, BOTH with issues of vagrants having claimed tenancy. In case the two were claimed by similar groups, I decide I need to check the other field post haste, this is not a potential threat I want to leave lying around without at least identifying it. I turn to my men, and order them to march: Another possible extreme threat could be on the south field, and we aim to check it immediately, due to how dangerous it potentially could be. And when I tell them, that Jojo fears we may have found a World Nightmare, they offer no complaints to continuing the march.

It is some time just shy of midnight, the sky obscured with a pall of clouds, yet the Premen offer no complaint, the ambient light I produce from my eyes and mouth seem to provide plenty for them to navigate by. We have finally reached the south Field, some few hours after having finished entombing the northern farm's cellar, and I once more halt my troops some distance away from the structures, as this time I see some lights dimly glowing in some windows.... and I can hear screams. I march forward, intent on finding out what is going on, when a massive shape simply bursts through the roof, leaping free to land upon the earth again some fair distance away.... and I recognize it. The creature that stalked me upon the Premen mountains a month ago, covered in blood and viscera, turns to regard me for a critical second, before it bounds off into the woods at impressive speeds.

In the creature's absence, I neither see nor hear further movement from within the house, but some light still spills forth. I am halfway across the fields to the buildings, with my followers still on the outside edge of the field.


What should I say or do?
>>
No. 158473 ID: 1ac39d

SON OF A BITCH! has it been following us the whole time?!
>>
No. 158476 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158471
Check if anything is still alive in there, quickly. DO NOT SEND OUR MEN TO PURSUE THIS THING, WE DON'T KNOW WHAT IT CAN DO. IF WE MUST CHASE IT, THEN WE DO IT IN A GROUP.
>>
No. 158477 ID: 427807

>>158476
agreed, we must capture this thing, and in some way attempt to communicate with it. For now, i propose shooting blades at it, aiming to disable, not kill the beast. Then run up close to it and headlock it!
>>
No. 158478 ID: 2aaaf1

>>158477
IDEA: Tell Oggroth to hogtie this sucker with his new UBER CHAIN.
>>
No. 158496 ID: 445c48

[herpderp wasn't reading carefully, thought it was still there]

Well, I doubt you can catch up with the creature who appears to have a huge crush on you, so go check out the house.
>>
No. 158504 ID: 3de05a

Also, the impressive speeds implies that it cannot be chased. We have to get it to come to us. So, let's check on the house if we can't chase it.
>>
No. 158560 ID: bc47bd

>>158471
I doubt that it's a threat now that it has fled, but if it is still visible, try to hamstring it using the mortars' blades.

Using magnetomancy, check for people inside the building, then send Ugrokk's Premen in. Have Oggroth's set up a perimeter around the building for anything that comes out, and another around that to watch for the beast.
>>
No. 158650 ID: 5f8268

>>158471
>>158473
As far as I understand explnation, this creature is a human body that lost it's soul and was mutated by Curse. So, it probably chase us because we have lots of souls inside.

Epileptic Tree : One of our souls are in fact this creature's soul, attracted by magic of Soul Grave. Try to remember how much souls you had before you was deactivate, how much souls were consumed and gained and then compare to what you actually have. If there are extras...
>>
No. 158712 ID: 4b28de

>>157603
>> If the northern bandits are fighting...nameless horrors the bandits unleashed from their research outpost, help bandits kill/tame the beasts and then kill the bandits until they get the message of cut that out and stop unleashing things from the great wheel, or the glass tubes, or the sphere or where ever said nameless horror crawled out from.

You know what, I need to stop posting ideas. Anyway, walk around the house - heck, lets even soulsuck if the dead are fresh and look human. Check the celler door while some of Ugrokk men check out inside the hut, along with Jojo and Arkus.

Ask Arkus what would happen if we did eat the soul of a hostile spirit.
>>
No. 158713 ID: 290314

>>158650
Agreed.


I am getting a very bad vibe from all of this....
This feels like a repeat of the Yeti syndrome, people trying to trick us into dealing with their problems...

TELL THE MAGES ABOUT THE PULSING ORGAN you felt underground. (Effing Zerg creep) We are missing many peoces to this puzzle, we must figure it out.
>>
No. 158899 ID: 6164e0

>>158712
[As a reminder, the fragment of Thomro's soul consumed early on was hostile, and had to be disrupted to such an extent it could be consumed. So sufficiently powerful hostile souls can resist being eaten, and this resistance can be overcome.]

>>158473
I cannot be sure, but the fact the creature was already present at the southern field when I arrived seems to suggest it has indeed been tracking me.

>>158476
>>158496
>>158504
>>158560
I assess the creature’s speed to be too great to make catching it a feasible option, and turn my attention back to the building it wrenched a hole through before fleeing. I call my companions over, and order Oggroth and his men to stand guard about the house, while Uggrok and his men accompany me into the buildings. Arkus stays with the remaining cart bearing Verther’s corpse and much of the Premen’s less savory supplies, Derkin visible in the distance bringing the cart he took to Trekel back with him as he approaches Arkus, keeping wide of the field and houses on it.

My escorts and I enter the house cautiously, weapons at the ready, after a sweep of Magnetomancy tells me that while I can feel metal in several locations, anything resembling a weapon now lies on the ground, where most of the grainy iron found in blood also feels like it resides. As I poke my head inside, I confirm that all that is to be found in the wake of that creature is death, disemboweled bodies everywhere, weapons still clutched in some outstretched hands. I note that while under the stains and gore now covering them, the dead wear largely similar clothes, and several documents seem to be scattered about the floor, though blood has ruined most of them. I see one piece of parchment still upon a bare table, unmarred by blood, and appraise it as the Premen sweep the rest of the buildings about. Each chunk of text seems to be a personal note, transcribed at different times.

We were able to make off with some of master Weinsho’s papers, the ones he does not let any who follow him see, not even the apprentices he gives authority to. Still don’t know what they all are about, but Jot went to the houses to the north of here, should hear back soon about whether her hypothesis about what these spells and rituals are for pans out.

…Getting a bit worried. Haven’t heard from Jot and the others in a week. Dielva went to check on them, said someone shot arrows at him and no one spoke at the house. So bandits managed to oust them, I imagine. Hopefully we can salvage something from this debacle.

After writing off Jot’s crew and the papers they had as a lost cause, I have been having trouble convincing the others to perform the ritual we have yet been able to decode. Dielva keeps filling everyone elses head with nonsense, saying Jot and the others release some ‘terrible evil.’ So some arrows flying out of an old house are a ‘terrible evil’ now? Still, it will take me some time to shore up their courage.

Finally able to convince the others to go ahead with the spell, after I told them we could gain power through it’s function. Hopefully, my claim will not turn out to be a falsehood. We begin the ceremony at midnight.


No more words are to be found on the piece of paper, and as I peer about, I see Ugrokk and two of the Premen with him return to this main room, telling me no survivors could be found. I glance about the many papers still in this room, and wonder what they could have been about, prior to the destruction of the knowledge they contain.

>>158713
I spy Jojo peering about, hovering above the ground as he wanders about, and tell him about the pulsing mass of what felt to be blood beneath the other house, and ask if such knowledge means anything to him.

“…Not sure. Could be blood of those that called the World Nightmare, drained and used as food by the creature. Could be part of creature. Difficult to say without seeing it. World Nightmares are old, and rare dangers, Premen lore is not as detailed on them as it could be.”


What should I do?
>>
No. 158914 ID: 427807

ask jojo if he knows any ways to remove or kill these world nightmare things. a little info never hurt, right?
>>
No. 158924 ID: 290314

Okay, tis as I expected. They summoned it. The two groups of bandits were working together, the first group did much the same this group did and tried something that they didn't know about and got themselves disemboweled, etc, etc.

There are only a few pieces left (hopefully)

- Who did the bow spell? If someone set it up as something to keep people from opening the door, then it happened after the creature came, so who did it?

-Whats up with the crimson outlines on the floor? If those belong to the bandits that says that that's where the creature got em, and if so, how did it end up sealed in the cellar?

I have tons of theories but they are to spotty... I guess there I more peices than I thought.
>>
No. 158928 ID: 445c48

Looks like the mercs might be up to something. I guess this means we need to get down there and tell them to stop fucking around.
>>
No. 158936 ID: e7740e

As a mental note, we should try to figure out a spell that can allow us to recover documents ruined by blood. This isn't the first time we've encountered this problem, and it won't be the last.

Anyway, it appears an apprentice or some thieves or such got their hands on the 'forbidden' notes of a mage, and, not unexpectedly, massively screwed up using them. We might want to talk around about 'Master Weinsho' see if Arkus or Derkin or even the villagers know anything about him, he sounds like a mage of some skill. In any case, though, it appears these guys were killed just in time, before they could summon or cause something dangerous to themselves and everyone within a few (Hundred?) miles.
>>
No. 158944 ID: 4b28de

Are their any souls? Because if so, lets take a snack. Some of them might know magic, and maybe we can use their last memories to peirce togeather what happened.
>>
No. 158947 ID: 4b28de

>>158936
Acutally, this is a good idea: Ask if Jojo or Arkus knows any simple cleaning spells.
>>
No. 158975 ID: a6ca77

>>158936

I agree that we should ask around about this weisho guy...If he was smart enough to know that this ritual was dangerous (and forbid his apprentices from learning it)...he may know how to stop it...
>>
No. 158984 ID: 6834bc

>>158899
Now this might not help at all, but what if we used magnetomancy to latch onto the iron in the blood covering the ruined documents... and pulled at it? Would it simply tear the documents that have dried blood on them, would it pull the blood out and off, would it just pull the iron out and mess with the blood's composition?

Best-case scenario, we somehow magically fix them. Worst-case scenario, we rip them to pieces.

Either way we'll be testing more of our magnetomancy boundaries, and we might just get a little bit of metal to munch on in the process.
>>
No. 159098 ID: 6164e0

>>158914
I confer with Jojo further, querying him on any methods of removing, banishing or otherwise dealing with these ‘World Nightmares’ that sounds roughly like an analog of the Core Being description Arkus gave me. Sadly, he offers me no more than Arkus did, non-permanent containment and eventually killing the creature when it grows weak enough from walking the surface. Neither option seems particularly palatable.

>>158924
>>158936
>>158944
>>158947
>>158975
I venture about the buildings myself as the Premen continue to thoroughly check it, gathering up every soul I can find. A few times, as I feast on a soul I gain some glimmer of knowledge on how to access Leylines, so at least some of the dead were familiar with World magic…. A pity none could ever hope to have unbroken skins. Still, I imagine that should I find a Leyline (and hopefully more knowledge on how to interact with them), that I may find interesting options available to me.

[Mordre has gained knowledge of Leyline tapping for World magic]

I finish touring the grounds, and find nothing out of the ordinary, nothing that does not further confirm my suspicions that these were some thieves or rogue apprentices that meddled with magic far beyond their ken. I do find it somewhat strange that only loose pieces of paper are to be found, not a single book or tome to be found amongst the deceased party. Since it seems rather clear that they had not performed their ritual yet, as midnight is still a short ways off, I motion over Arkus and Derkin, and as they approach I address the two.

“It would seem that fortune was on our side, As these individuals intended another ill attempt at magic. Well, the south field is cleared, which I imagine will please the villagers, But I am more concerned about the name attached to these documents: It seems the ritual in question, the one put in action on the north field and halted here, Was from the private notes and journals of a mage by the name of Weinsho. Does this name sound familiar to either of you?”

Arkus responds first, as if by rote.

“There is an author of several books on magical theory by the name of Weinsho, so if you are talking about the mage Albert Weinsho, then yes, I am at least familiar with his existence. I haven’t been able to actually read any of his books, as the Mortal Coil keeps prices pretty high and copies hard to find, but as far as I can tell he is pretty well-versed in most forms of magic, and has a bunch of books spanning a wide range of magical subsets. That is about all I can say, until I have actually read any of his books. But that is the only Weinsho I have ever heard of.”

Derkin glances sidelong at Arkus before he cobbles together his own commentary.

“Well, I’ve known a few people to offer some rather large sums for books by Albert Weinsho, some research specialist mage, and if you say the name weinsho is mentioned for this, I’d have to lay money that we are thinking of the same guy. So now the question is, what are some busybody thieves, apprentices, whatever they were all the way out here with some of his writings? This is deep in the lawless territory for the State, and last I heard that guy Albert is way far away, out in Castiliathen. And he never releases anything but books in his name, so if there are loose documents I have to bet these came from him….. so why are they out here?”

As Derkin mulls over this line of thought, I ask Arkus and Jojo both if they know some method of removing blood from parchment, or otherwise restoring the text upon the paper. Sadly, neither have anything to offer me, noting that blood in particular is known for having extra metaphysical weight when trying to magically interact with it, and the same applies when trying to remove bloodstains, as they tell me.

[b[DAY 62][/b]

As midnight finally arrives and passes, I ponder what to do. It would seem the south field is safe, as nothing seems to be irregular with it to the perceptions of all our party, so I imagine the villagers can use it again. And while the potential Core Being at the northern field is certainly not dealt with, there is little more that we can do right now, and so long as the earthworks are not undone the door should be well warded from anyone opening it. I also note that my troops look quite fatigued.


What should I do?
>>
No. 159111 ID: 58ec1e

>>159098

let our men redt and fully explain the danger to the villagers.
>>
No. 159129 ID: 290314

>>159098
The heck man, we can't ask magic questions around Derkin!! Would it not be strange for a master mage (especially one that can control a golem from long range) to be asking his apprentice for spell advice?!?!

The info about the mage can be passed off as Arkus traveling more than you do but questions about spells have got to be private.
>>
No. 159140 ID: a6ca77

>>159098

Quick Question. How many souls are we at now that we've eaten these bandits?

I think that we need to let the villagers know about the evil thing and bail. We can't really do anything here right now...so let's go take over that bandit research outpost and hopefully we'll get a weapon or something that can help...
>>
No. 159202 ID: 4b28de

>>159140
/These are the bastards that unleased it.

Anyway, I would like to try >>158984 before we move on - it could work with the metal in the blood, or at least move it around and, depending on the kind of ink used, there is a high chance that the ink might have enough trace metals in it to be able to tell what was written under the blood - some inks are iron based, after all.

Anyway, tell the village we cleared out the southern field, but tell them that if anything goes 'weird', to book it away from that field and try and contact us. March onto the Bandit Research Post.

Listen to >>159129 and
STOP BREAKING CHARACTER!
geeeze! Phrase questions like we're quizzing them, if we have to ask. Not like we don't know it, like it's a god damn pop quiz.
>>
No. 159213 ID: a6ca77

>>159202

I really don't think it's that much of a problem. Yes we're a mage...but that doesn't mean we're supposed to be all knowing. I kinda envisioned "mage" modre as quite skilled in magnetomancy and is learning about golemcraft (which is why he is doing all these tests) and has only basic knowledge on all other magic.

Unless we're supposed to be pretending to be an all powerful master mage, it is fine to have "gaps" in our apparent knowledge...
>>
No. 159221 ID: 290314

>>159213
Yes but not so much that we have to be asking our APPRENTICE about magic-world stuff
>>
No. 159224 ID: eed774

I totally agree with Falcon, if anything someone should've spotted it by now. Mordre needs to keep info to itself and only ask for info in private one-on-one convos.
>>
No. 159231 ID: 4b28de

>>159221
>>159224

I am gonna put my 'Pop Quiz' idea forward again. It makes sense and fits in with the hammy genius.
Someone remember this next time we talk in character! HAMMY GENIUS.
>>
No. 159242 ID: 290314

>>159231
I like this idea, especially if we don't tell Arkus first. It would be hilarious to see him in an actual pop quiz scenario, and it would make the act better.

In fact I vote we do it now, so Derkin doesn't get the idea fixed in his head.
"Arkus, quickly! What are the basic principles of Magnetomancy! 5 seconds!"
>>
No. 159244 ID: 290314

>>159242
Then act mildly displeased if he doesn't get it right. If he does, complain about his speed of recollections. If he gets everything right, commend him on his memory but tell him not to get lax.
>>
No. 159278 ID: 6164e0

>>159140
I cast my memories and senses both to seeking the answer: how many souls did I gain in feasting on the freshly dead here? And the only answer I come to, no matter how I approach it, is simply that I gained not a single soul. Clearly this is impossible, as I recall feasting on separate souls, but I still have the four hundred and seventy one souls worth of fuel, I do not understand… ah. Perhaps, if all the souls I fed on were oriented about magic, that the souls of mages are treated in some similar manner to the souls of heroes, removed from my fuel and somehow grafted to me. A thought to consider.

>>159213
>>159221
>>159224
>>159231
I elect to cover for my questioning Arkus and Jojo on magic (Arkus in particular as he and Derkin speak the same language), by putting a question to Arkus in the form of a quiz. Hopefully, such will make the posing of my prior question look like a test. Even though Derkin seems to have been occupied in his thoughts, I do not wish to leave him hints as to my true nature.

“So you know no method of removing blood from paper? I was sure I taught you such, but perhaps I am mis-recalling it…. ..Well, in the case of no clear answer whether I taught you such or not… QUICKLY, what are the basic principles of Magnetomancy! TEN SECONDS!”

Arkus stare at me, his jaw agape for a moment, before he starts spluttering, throwing out words as swiftly as he can.

“Uh attraction and repulsion are the two primary methods of commanding metal, requires a point to base such reactions off of, ownership and proximity factor into the ease of manipulating any metal, as does it’s mass, ah..”

”-YES well… that was significantly more than ten seconds, But at least you have been paying attention during SOME lessons.”

Arkus looks at me strangely for a time before he seems to grasp I am trying to maintain my cover in front of Derkin, and says no more.

>>159111
>>159202
I make my way back into the buildings as I give my followers the order to rest and make camp. Thankful to be far away from the dangers of the north field, none complain at the proximity of corpses. Once I stick my head back into the main structure, appraising the documents soiled with blood littering the floor, I decide to try my hand at Magnetomancy. I direct my focus to the grainy Iron in the blood, and seeking out the metal that could be in the ink on the pages, and find…..

…The ink has no metal to be detected in it’s composition, but the blood… as I reach out and tug at the iron saturating the bloody stains on the paper, I feel some form of… weight, clinging to the iron as I wrench it free. The process shreds the paper, and I feel my will draining rapidly from focusing so finely to sift free iron from even a few splashes of blood, but I can sense something, if only-

My Will slips and crumbles, the cloud of gray iron starting to form before me now dissipating in the air. Manipulating blood seems to be a daunting task, from the perspective of the Magnetomancer. An interesting finding to note.

I decide to wait for morning, allowing my troops to rest before the sun rises and we once more begin to move. I bring our group back to Trekel, telling the village elder of the states of both fields, and my recommendations to stay clear of the northern field until the situation is dealt with. While several villagers look frightened, the elder simply nods, and thanks me for returning the southern field to the village, and for at least checking on the northern field. I spend little time further in the village, before I move on, marching north, seeking the bandit controlled outpost I have heard is to be found. The day slowly wears on, and as we make camp I speculatively munch on the bronze disk that now serves as makeshift armor for Oggroth’s mount.

[DAY 63]

We start marching early again, thankful that our small troop size means camp can be made and taken down swiftly, and sometime before mid-day, stumble upon a vast open field, no trees to be seen…… and some three clusters of structures visible on the horizon, one to each side, and the third and final straight ahead, all too distant for specifics to be discerned about these collections of buildings.


What should I do? Toward which group of structures should I venture, or send scouts? Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 159335 ID: 3de05a

Try using Magnetomancy to remove the blood from the paper. After all, it contains iron.
>>
No. 159450 ID: a6ca77

>>159278

Voting that we scout them all out...Tell the premen to just observe and report...Don't touch anything, b/c we don't want them to accidentally open pandora's box like with the other barn...
>>
No. 159458 ID: 1ac39d

take the left one for now, but be wary of anything. keep your senses constantly looking for metal that is not part of your group.
>>
No. 159471 ID: 4b28de

>>159278
Question: Are these where the Research Outpost should be? Because it seems almost too quiet. Other then that, yes, scouts, but send them to the building that is closest to us first and just observe.
>>
No. 159512 ID: 6164e0

>>159471
The sets of buildings are all distant enough that people could be teeming about them and I would not be able to tell. The only reason I can see them now is because this massive plain we have stumbled upon has almost no contours and nothing taller than some shrubs, the buildings stand out like giants.

>>159450
>>159458
I order the Premen to split into two bands and do some general scouting towards the buildings straight before us, and to the right, while Arkus, Derkin and I investigate the left set of buildings. Our goal for now is just determining which, if any of these collections of structures is the bandit controlled research outpost, and determining rough population estimates. Based off this, I will then make a more informed decision on where we are to travel.

We separate, Oggroth (I see Jojo tagging along with him) and Ugrokk both commanding combined forces of Premen heavy scouts and heavy warriors as they head off to their destination, Arkus and Derkin both commanding a cart apiece. As we travel, I hear Derkin ask Arkus about the quiz questioning he received. I find myself pleased to hear Arkus respond with commiseration that I am an eccentric teacher, but that considering his own background, he can’t complain. The story roughly enough matches the truth that he should not have much issue recalling it, and the answer seems to be agreeable to Derkin, who laughs as he gives Arkus his condolences. Perhaps an hour later, conversation has died away, as we start to near out scouting target and start trying to glean information from it.

…Hm. On the subject of the left collection of buildings, we find:

-Most of the buildings are two stories or less in height, with some thirteen total buildings.
-A building in the middle of the town is significantly larger, and has three stories.
-Villagers are actively tilling nearby fields. Unknown number of total villagers.
-There are armed guards wearing irregular armor standing watch, some twenty three visible.
-The villagers and guards have both not yet spotted us.

I motion to Arkus and Derkin to withdraw, and after another hour of marching I am meeting with my troops near where we split company to investigate all three sets of buildings. They deliver reports to me on what they found.

The right collection of buildings:
-Are relatively well-fortified, the walls thick and buildings only bearing minimal entry-points.
-The village is atop an artificial hill
-There is a fort in the middle of the town, with guards standing watch.
-Scouts could learn no more without being spotted.

The middle collection of buildings:
-Are burned out wrecks, largely demolished.
-Have some people inhabiting the ruins.

…It sounds like we may not have reached the bandit-controlled outpost yet. I did note that the forests the Trekel elder drew on the map betwixt the outpost and their village seem to have not yet been reached, as we are only now seeing some other villages.


To which collection of buildings should I lead my group, the left, middle, or right collection?
>>
No. 159520 ID: bd5cda

>>159512
Left. Have scouts move in till they can identify if the heavily armed guards are guarding the villages or are slave drivers and what the relationship between the Villagers and the Guards are.

If hostile slavers, Scouts get to stealth kill. If anything else, lets go and introduce ourselves.
>>
No. 159544 ID: 903f16

Let's go towards the middle collection of buildings. The right and left sections of this village seem to pose a greater risk of detection. The other two sides risk being spotted by either the guards or villagers whereas we only need to avoid the inhabitants of the destroyed buildings.
>>
No. 159598 ID: 290314

>>159512
Well, this tells us one thing. Derkin lives up to his bandit roots and eavesdrops on us. We will have to begin holding private council.
>>
No. 159606 ID: a6ca77

>>159512
Voting we approach a person from the middle destroyed village and try and get some info on what's going on here...
>>
No. 159649 ID: 015cc9

I agree with 159606. We also might find papers or items left over in the middle destroyed buildings.
>>
No. 159758 ID: d1210a

>>159544
>>159598
>>159606
>>159649
I elect to travel to the middle collection of buildings first, as likely refugees hiding in the burned out husks of buildings should not be over-concerned about the appearance of a Soul Grave and those that follow me if I do not attack them. Of course, this is purely conjecture, but the theory is sound.

I lead our reunited group forward, trekking across the open plains at a steady speed. Derkin spends some more time talking with Arkus, telling improbable stories that seem to all focus about himself, laughing all the while. Finally Arkus responds with a tale of slitting a yeti's throat with a shard of rock, and beating another Yetis skull in with a larger piece or rock in the process of escaping their clutches. In his flight, he drinks yeti blood and tries to perform some of their magic, to keep the biting cold of the mountains from claiming his life after he escapes. Alas, the spell misfires, and he becomes one with the mountain. When Derkin presses Arkus on how he survived, he simply responds 'Well, my Master Mordre showed up, and he has a tendency to fix problems rather forcibly. So here I am.' Derkin takes a moment before roaring with laughter, the Premen warrior talking amongst themselves as they march as well.

The sun is well past it's zenith when we draw close to the burned out town. At this distance, we are finally spotted, but while many run to huddle inside the few bits of structures still standing, many more simply stay where they are, as if quietly demanding that they need run no longer. But as my group continues to advance at a steady gait, weapons still lax, curiosity starts to get the better of the more cautious ones, and they poke out their heads to investigate, a scattered see of confused faces directed at us.

I call a halt once we are within the ruined village, and sweep my gaze about. As my ruby eyes track across the area, people flee from my gaze, cowering in fear and anticipation. I wonder at how responsive these people will be.


What should I do? If I mean to question the inhabitants, what actions and words should I use to elicit a response?
>>
No. 159810 ID: 344ef9

>>159758
"Greetings from Mage Mordre. Don't mind the golem. It seems you fellows have run into a spot of trouble. Why not tell this inquisitive old man about how you got in such a situation?"
>>
No. 159989 ID: 95c3d1

>>159810
Yeah, I can't think of anything other then this. Question: How close are the other two collections of buildings to this burnt out husk?
>>
No. 160004 ID: 427807

>>159810
do this, and hopefully try not to scare the shit out of these weaklings.
>>
No. 160015 ID: d1210a

>>159989
The other sets of buildings are some five to seven miles away, it is difficult to be precise with so few notable landmarks.

>>159810
>>160004
"Greetings from mage Mordre. Don't mind the golem. It seems you fellows have, well, Run into a spot of trouble. Why not tell this inquisitive old man here, All about how you got in such a situation?"

I appeal to the residents of the burned out husks through the visage of a kindly mage, trying to build on my persona while encouraging the residents to talk. For a moment no one speaks and I wonder if more extreme measures might be called for against these meat-bags, but finally I hear someone speak up.

"...Well, uhm, yer mageship, we're refugees. From Gretath, Breskin, Curonga, all over. This was Hashwood village, but since they stood up to some bandits, the place got razed, burned down. But ever since, no one ever comes here, so we just.... make do. ....Are... are you here to bring back the peace, sir, mage, eh, sir-mage Mordre?"

At this query, I see dozens more faces appear, abruptly paying very close attention to what I say. It would seem a sizable population exists here, perhaps some four or five score individuals. And all had their attention drawn by the simple mention of possible order, of the return to less troubled times. While I find their pathetic inability to resist the forces at work around them laughable, I make allowances for them being nothing more than lumps of flesh on some pieces of calcium. Besides, I imagine they could be useful for establishing supply production here in the Azelhaedran State, should I get them under my sway. Of course, I would still need to find some place for them to labor, and some form of jobs to perform. But in the interim, now that I have their attention, I imagine I can ask any questions I want, and if someone knows, they will be liable to answer.


What kind of questions should I ask, and what response should I give about my purpose? How should I choose to direct my persona here in the state, purely here for research, here to help the people, uncaring, or something else? Or should I leave the burned down village and do something else?
>>
No. 160019 ID: 2aaaf1

>>160015
"If it isn't one thing- I mean YES. I will help you. I'm just flustered be the extent of the damages caused by ALL these bandits. Everywhere I go: "BANDITS HAVE BURNED AND RAZED ANOTHER TOWN! BANDITS ARE TOYING WITH FORCES BEYOND THEIR FEEBLE COMPREHENSION! BANDITS STOLE OUR FARM! BANDITS KICKED MY DOG!" I've had enough of these games-"I'm getting too old for this" doesn't even BEGIN to describe how irritating this business is. Can you tell me which way your aggressors have gone? I will try my damned hardest to aid you."
>>
No. 160039 ID: b14128

>>160019
This. Because it's funny. ...And, well, it is actually the truth, to be perfectly honest. Really, how many damn bandits are we going to have the kick the crap out of before they all start to figure out the life of an outlaw is the (Rather short) life of an idiot?

Anyway, that might be a -little- too caring for us. I think it might be better to suggest that the reson we came here in the first place is for the research, but that we're willing to at least try and help out with any problems we run across. We're not a roaming knight-errant, seeking wrongs to right, we have our own self-serving goals and plans, but that we're not so callous and uncaring as to ignore the plights of the oppressed.
>>
No. 160040 ID: 716eb0

>>160019
...second.
>>
No. 160052 ID: d1210a

>>160019
>>160039
>>160040
"Eh, If it isn't one thing- I mean YES. I will help you. I'm just flustered be the extent of the damages caused by ALL these bandits. Everywhere I go: 'BANDITS HAVE BURNED AND RAZED ANOTHER TOWN! BANDITS ARE TOYING WITH FORCES BEYOND THEIR FEEBLE COMPREHENSION! BANDITS STOLE OUR FARM! BANDITS KICKED MY DOG AND DEFECATED IN THE WELL!' I've had enough of these games- "I'm getting too old for this" doesn't even BEGIN to describe how irritating this business is. Can you tell me which way your aggressors have gone, or where they are? I have several goals in the State, and helping the populace is admittedly one of them. Now be quick about it, I have data to collect!"

My insistent, irritated yet clearly benign persona seems to be exactly what is needed. The refugees seem to find it second nature to trust a wandering mage, and I am bombarded with a tumult of voices. But all bear largely the same message: The north, that is where they came from, where their homes are, where their aggressors still lay. This whole community seems to be composed of villagers that fled the bandits controlling the State research outpost to the North of here. Some few mention having tried to flee to Droba, the village to the east of here, the rightmost village as we approached from the south, but that in addition to the formidable fortifications the town seems to have gained, someone who calls himself 'Sir Keddic Harksburton the 4th" now heads up their militia, and has since stopped anyone from entering. Something about 'the riff-raff needing to use their own boot-straps, rather than mewling at someone else for help.' Several comment on this Keddic individual, noting his large size and golden beard to be most distinctive, and that no one happens to know where he came from. They also note that after he arrived and started fortifying the Droba, the village started to go by the moniker 'The Republic of Trepany.' Most express confusion as to what could be going on with the village formerly known as Droba.

Mention is made of the other nearby village, Glenston. Some refugees have ventured over, but none have come back, all being seen working on the fields under the watch of the soldiers present. Since no one has ever come back from going to investigate, no one knows just who the soldiers are. The refugees also note that another day or two of traveling north would bring us through a patch of forest, and to the bandit-controlled outpost they fled from.


What should I do? Should I ask any more questions, or tell the refugees anything? Or should I go to any of the locations the refugees have given me data on? Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 160058 ID: a6ca77

>>160052
Ask them about the size/composition/leader of the bandit forces that chased them out...
>>
No. 160095 ID: 0815c4

Also might send out some scouts secretly while you wait on them. I would assume the village to the West is true military outpost, so for now our questions should stick to the East and how many are in it as well as the number of bandits that attacked them from the North.
>>
No. 160151 ID: 716eb0

You could advise them that there is another town a fair distance south, which currently has its own budding fortifications and a temporary surplus of food they might be willing to share if you agreed to help them defend the place and get the village back on its feet. Would be a damn sight better than living in this burned wreckage in any event. Meanwhile, WE are going to check out the village to the west, see if we need to be freeing any repressed workers.
>>
No. 160235 ID: 275a5d

I wanna know more about Glenston.
>>
No. 160270 ID: d1210a

>>160058
The estimates the refugees give me on the size of the bandit force that occupies a research outpost and drove most of them from their homes ranges between less than a hundred and some six hundred. I do not imagine I shall find accurate scouting intel amongst peasants.

>>160151
>>160235
I decide that as interesting as this newly renamed 'Principality of Trepany' certainly sounds intriguing, Glenston, the village to the west, sounds more in need of immediate attention. The fact no refugee has returned from going to investigate Glenston leads me to believe the place could be a forced labor camp, and if such is the case it could be a perfect place to freely gain more souls whilst not overly upsetting the residents whose opinions I actually concern myself with. As I depart, I take a moment to lay a last bit of commentary before the refugees.

"While I will not say life is completely without worry, The town of Trekel to the south has food and relative safety, As well as a need for hands to help restore fallow fields. If one were to say the mage Mordre sent them, then the village would likely welcome them with open arms. But be warned it will be work, to live in Trekel, So take this option only if you are willing."

While I march out to Glenstone, I observe some half of the refugee population simply getting up and marching south without any hesitation, grabbing what few possessions they still have and acting solely on the word of what (they presumed) is a respectable mage. That, and the promise of some measure of safety seems to draw the attention of many. By the time the burned out village is fading behind me, some two thirds have already packed their remaining belongings away and begun the march south to Trekel.

Dusk is beginning to fall as we approach the western town of Glenston. With the poor lighting it takes some time for our group to be spotted, but it finally happens, and after some frantic orders are given, a resounding boom echoes about, and I feel a magnetic field approaching at tremendous speeds. But thanks both to the experience I gained fighting Verther and the power I gained feasting on his soul, I find stopping the cannonball easy, bringing it to a floating halt before my left hand. I flick the cannonball away, activating Accelerator as I do, while taking hold of the munition's magnetic field to fling it with every bit of force I can.

The cannonball slams into the cannon from which it originated with such force the barrel splits and the woods assembly it was set upon shatters, several soldiers nearby crying out as shards of wood bombard their forms.

And just like that, what little fight the soldiers may have had in them flees their souls, and before I ever get into Glenston, the soldiers guarding it flee my approach, scattering into the woods. The villagers likewise scatter, but they look confused by, barring the returned cannonball, our lack of hostilities as we approach. Shortly we are in the village proper of Glenstone, and after once more introducing myself as the mage Mordre and asking who those soldiers were, and why they attacked me, I am reluctantly given some response.

"Well, those were some of Lord Barcho's army, least that's what they call themselves. The bandits to the north? Leader calls himself Lord Barcho. They make us grow food for them, or we end up like the village over yonder, burned to the ground. ....So, what is a mage, one with a Soul Grave no less doing out here? Begging your pardon, but there isn't all that much to be found for.... 'intellectual types' out here."


What further questions should I ask? What should I say? Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 160283 ID: 2aaaf1

>>160270
"That's what you think, my good man. What these bandits have gotten their grubby hands on; the magical research facilities, they are more valuable and dangerous than those power hungry fools will ever realize. I'm going to stop these bandits before they kill everyone with their lack of common sense. Then I'm going to put these facilities to good use, because I can help people, I'm not a mage for nothing you know. This world needs magic to survive, when some half-wit tries to abuse the power of magic, the world suffers for it. You'd think people would understand this by now, but no. All I see are overgrown children running about with their deathtrap toys, playing a country-wide game of cowboys and indians. I'll tell you what- Being a mage is the worst job you could ever have sonny. But when the world is plagued and overrun by these insolent babies, it takes an "Intellectual type" like me to bend them over my knee and give them the cane that they deserve. Now, I scratch your back, you scratch mine, got it? That town that the bandits burned back over yonder, I helped a good lot of them relocate to the village Trekel. You ain't gotta make food or take flak from that son of an ass Barcho anymore. Instead, I want you to help yourselves, and help those remaining refugees get back on their feet. Then, make contact with Trekel and see if you can't make some kind of trading route work. Those people aren't doing too well with their farms because of the same bandits that were working you folks like dogs, and they would sure appreciate the help. And lastly, DON'T go fooling around with magic like these self-important bandits. I don't care if you wanna learn magic, find a mage to teach you- Not me though, I'm on a schedule, and I'm busy helping the victims of these debacle as best I can. But DO NOT try to half-ass magic cause it looks neat or you're lookin for a easy way ta earn yerself some coin. What you find when you don't do magic proper, it AIN'T gonna be pretty."
>>
No. 160302 ID: e4835a

yea.... wall of text, cant bother.
What he said.
>>
No. 160307 ID: 23bee4

>>160283
Ham this up a bit more, be exasperated and old man tired. Grumble about kids today and their inability to not screw around with creatures that claw at the nightmare void between life and dead, the universe and the world.

Ask the villagers what else we can do other then freeing them from the tyrannical yoke of oppression because if nothing important requires our attention right now, we are going to go bash Lord Bark's front teeth in, that magic dabbling pompous git.
Pause and say that anything kinda out of the ordinary should be considered important, as the last time something minor was brought up, it turned out it was some damn fool kids calling forth a world nightmare and we're still kinda cheesed off about that.

Ask how many bandits Lord Barcho has - try and correlate with the previous village. And ask how far away Lord Barcho's forces/research facility is from here. It might be a good idea to scout first before we actually leave, because asking the Principality of Trepany for some men might be a good idea. Or at least a not completely pointless idea, anyway.
>>
No. 160341 ID: d1210a

>>160283
>>160302
"That's what you think, my good man. What these bandits have gotten their grubby hands on; Those State magic research facilities, they are more valuable and dangerous than those power hungry fools will ever realize. I'm going to stop these bandits before they kill everyone with their lack of common sense. Then I'm going to put these facilities to good use, To both facilitate my own research and restore some order: I'm not a mage for nothing, and it grieves me to see magic misused so. This world needs magic to survive, for anything to keep living, And when some half-wit tries to abuse the power of magic, The world suffers for it. ...You'd think people would understand this by now, but no. Apparently the ramifications of The Curse lain upon Mosmordre, All of that has taught people nothing. All I have seen are overgrown children running about, Playing with tools and powers they do not fully comprehend. ...Really, the gross incompetence I have seen is most deplorable. Is it really that hard to exercise some degree of caution and restraint? ...Well, moving past that, I need any data you may have on this 'Barcho.' The guards he had stationed here, do you know where they shall flee? Further, any troop estimates you can offer about Barcho would be useful. Ah, and the southern village of Trekel is doing well, They have freshly erected fortifications, a reasonable food supply, And they have reclaimed their fields for farming. Perhaps some communication and trade could be established between you? Well now, speak up if you have answers, the day is fading, and I have much to do."

The torrent of information I have now dispensed to the inhabitants of Glenston halts their speech for a time as they mull over what I have said, before answers start to filter back to me.

"Uh, not really sure where the guards would flee..."
"Don't be stupid, they had to flee back to the outpost!"
"Makes sense, not much else between here and there besides forest."
"Well, they're bandits, right? Wouldn't the forest-"
"Just because they are bandits does not mean they always shack up ion the woods."
"Yeah, but it's not like they'd need to stay there for long.."
"Either way, they have to ultimately head north, right?"
"Yeah.... or come back here the moment the mage leaves...."
"Maybe with more arms, too! That Lord Barcho has a mess of men serving him!"
"Ah, he can't have more than some three hundred men tops."
"No way! He has damn near a thousand!"
"I thought they had five hundred....."

As I come to realize the Glenston peasants may not be able to offer me any more precise information than this, I hold up my hand to silence their babble and address them once more.

>>160307
"Now, barring the stereotypical tyrannical yoke of oppression, Is there anything else I can do while here to restore order for this village? I plan to aggress this 'Lord Barcho' myself in the near future, And I would know if there is anything else to be dealt with. ...Oh yes, that includes anything minor but still strange you may have noticed. So, anything come to mind?"

Again, the villagers pause, many scrunching up their faces in concentration as they reflect on this, before one finally speaks first, her voice hesitant.

"...Well, we used to trade with Droba, before they became the Principality of.... Trepanation?
"Trepany. Yeah, if we could get some trade going with them again..."
"Pfft, that, plus Trekel to the south, and we would have no worries over food."
"If Lord Barcho falls, I think that is the most important thing, not many people around here not directly under his control.
"Yeah, we dealt with the odd bandit group before all this just fine, it's just when the groups get that big and well armed...."
".....Hey, uh-"
"Shut up Joshich."
"But some of the bandits dropped their weapons when they ran...."
"..Wow, Joshich ain't kidding. ....Five.... seven.... hey, how many over there?"
"We got six over here!"
"Another three over here!"
"..Okay then. All said and done, that's.... eighteen weapons, yeah?"
"Looks like it."
"Well, that's a start."

I leave the Glenston residents to their banter and the organization of their own militia while I march our forces east, heading towards the Principality of Trepany. I considered sending another batch of scouts out first, but considering the language barrier, I decide to simply use traditional scouts about our party as we travel, and simply speak with whatever residents I can find when I arrive.

By the time we pass by the burned ruins betwixt the two towns, the shroud of night has fallen completely, stars twinkling in the sky above. I note that only a scant few refugees still linger, mostly those too old or infirm to travel, bereft of family to aid them in their journey. I continue marching by, onwards towards my destination.

Deep in the night, near to the border that straddles late night and early morning, I bring our march to a halt some several hundred feet distant from the Principality Of Trepany, outside of the ring of light their torches create. Now I consider how I should approach them:


Should I simply step forth now and begin a dialogue immediately in the interest of saving time? Or should I wait until the morning comes, to let the meatbags within have time to awaken? Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 160345 ID: 427807

lets just march up to the village and introduced ourselves, i guess. its not like it hasn't worked in the past
>>
No. 160386 ID: a6ca77

>>160341

Voting we wait for them to wake up. Use the time to rest your troops...
>>
No. 160399 ID: 23bee4

>>160345
Hush.

>>160341
Let us wait until morning. Break camp - Premen train in friendly combat, Arkus and Jojo continue language construction. Our tasks will be to feel the magnetic layout of the town - how many people live within it, how many would be fully equipted with weapons, and if there are any surprises inside, i.e. a SoulGrave, a powerful wizard if we can sense that with the powers we have now, or how many hero souls that might be inside. We will then alternate between training Jojo in Magnetomacy and asking Derkin if he knows this Lord Barcho and what things Derkin could teach us, after all one must be a life long learning, eh what?

Anyway, when the sun comes up and guards start circulating, get viable - keep half the Premen scouts as hidden as they possibly can - and then introduce ourselves.

"Greetings, Well Walled Republic of Trepany! It is I, The Mage Mordre! If you are not bandits and you are well armed, well thinking, and wish do well in the eyes of your fellow men, I will speak with you Keddic Harksburton!
I am here to find your magical ills, for fear they are the spawn of some great evil unleashed by half-thinking, bloody stupid, totally idiotic man-child - ahem! - bandits!
And if you do wish to help your fellow men, then I am also here to request your assistance in demolishing the bandit hoards who are completely in capable of thinking for themselves and not releasing world nightmares onto unsuspecting farm land just because they think it could be a good idea, the ignorant children! Just to think a few years ago, I would pull my sleeves up and fireball the whole lot of them - Ahem!
Anyway, I am here to request your assistance and offer my assistance, if your Keddic Harksburton would see fit to offer it!
And yes, the think that is speaking is a SoulGrave! You should be suitably impressed because I don't know another mage fully capable of such an impressive feat as I, The Mage Mordre, and capable of doing with such ridiculous ease!
Now, really, please go ask your master if we can speak with him, we've been out here for the whole ruddy night and me and my experiments could murder a cuppa!
Damn, if I don't need some tea myself! Joanna! My morning meal!"
>>
No. 160405 ID: e31d52

>>160399
Excellent.
*gendo pose*
Development of Mordre the Mage is wonderful.
>>
No. 160576 ID: 716eb0

>>160341
Wouldn't it maybe make sense to get the old and infirm who cannot travel connected with Glenston before they all starve to death?
>>
No. 160601 ID: d1210a
File 127060721842.jpg - (223.38KB , 1000x1390 , Another Traveller.jpg )
160601

[Pretend I said 'Republic Of Trepany' rather than 'Principality Of Trepany' last post.]

>>160386
>>160399
>>160405
>>160576
I decide to wait until morning, paying some measure of respect to this village, in the hopes it will make negotiations thereafter easier. I order my troops to set up a highly visible camp, so that any guards will see us easily, and to fit in some more sparring before sleep. I also order them to move under the cover of one of the few small collections of trees on these planes, as the stars are vanishing rather swiftly under a cover of clouds. I recall that I have not had my troops spar for some time, since prior to reaching Duras. I am curious to see how they have improved since. While our forces are setting up to spar, I consider the old, the infirm I saw still residing in the burned out town, and consider what use they could have.

On the one hand, the elders among any community of organics seem to serve as resevoirs for communal knowledge and lore very frequently, so there is a possibility these particular refugees may possess some number with highly useful information. Further, taking the time to insure their survival could further solidify my image as a kindly mage. Clearly, there are reasons to aid them.

In counterpoint to the reasons to help them, are several issues. As they are by and large incapable of work, they would be a drain on resources, and considering resources were one of my biggest concerns when coming here, anything that could damage that is suspect in my view. Further, attempting to help the remaining refugees could actually negatively impact my image. What if the villagers start to resent the extra refugees and through them the 'mage' that sent them? I certainly see no point in putting in effort to preserve decaying lumps of flesh already partway dead if they cannot be of more use than inconvenience to me.

I snap out of my deliberation on this subject, while I appraise the fights. I note that, in absence of their armor, most of the Premen have gained several pounds of muscle, their bodies now more heavily adorned with ropey muscle, and almost all bearing several new scars, offering no complaint after Jojo's ministrations. The fighting is hectic, and it quickly divides into a conflict between Oggroth and Ugrokk's followers, Jojo grumbling about 'over-zealous youngsters' as he sees to his tent, erecting it with the same unseen force that keeps him aloft and places irregular tracks in the ground as he walks. I take a moment to ask Jojo and Arkus both to spend their time this evening working on the magic language once more, and find them swiftly deep in halting conversation. I call Derkin to my side as I continue to pay some attention to the sparring, noting that currently Oggroth's followers are starting to take the lead, much to Ugrokk's followers' woe.

"As you may have inferred from prior comments, I do not normally pay much attention to public affairs, Having spent most of my recent years working on, well, The spells that let me control this golem. Should I have heard of this 'Lord Barcho'? Perhaps you have heard of him through your own connections?"

Derkin scratches his chin thoughtfully as he considers his impending response, as I cast out my sense of magnetomancy, feeling what I can about the village. Around the time Derkin starts to respond, rain starts to fall, and the possibly reformed bandit beside me grumbles as he pulls up his collar, sheltering himself as he can.

"Ah, well, I've known several Barcho's actually. ....I think seven in all? Not really sure if this is one of the Barcho's I know, but I can run through the ones I know. There's Barcho 'Ironjaw' out in the Golden League, Barcho The Breaker, bodyguard for one of the disciples of Domintus, last I heard, and...."

I stop tracking what Derkin is saying as I notice something strange: While I can perceive the iron in the blood of many moving bodies, most of which bear arms likewise visible to my senses, there is one form that is neither within the Republic Of Trepany or in my own group. I turn about, seeking it's source, and spy a man walking through the woods, an animal of stark coloring beside him, bearing but a single piece of metal, as far as I can tell. The moment my gaze falls on this individual I note he is already staring at me. His beast starts to growl, but he quiets it with a gentle hand, before offering me a polite bow.

"Honored traveler, this one is seeking a location:
Is this place the one called Droba?
Or perhaps the Republic Of Trepany?"

Before I can say anything, Derkin switches gears, shifting from his continued explanation of the Barchos he has met to answering the wanderer's question.

"Yeah, this is the place."

The traveler bows again, a simple smile on his face. Without another word, he clips a collar about his beast, and makes his way towards the village proper. As he nears the walls, the nearby torches dim and falter, and in the murky shadow I see the traveler leap some thirty feet to simply vault beyond the earthworks and other fortifications about the town.

I feel some of the grainy Iron moving about within the town near this newcomer, the song of the sword he carries distinguishing it from all the other metal to be detected. I feel some sort of.... weight... building in the weapon the newcomer bears.


What should I do?
>>
No. 160625 ID: a6ca77

>>160601

I'd say follow him at a discreet distance and see what's up...
>>
No. 160629 ID: abead8

>>160601
RIP THE BLOOD FROM HIS PUNY MORTAL SACK OF FLESH
>>
No. 160644 ID: 45be60

>>160625
...can't. He jumped over the wall there.

I say walk closer, to get magnetomancy range easier and make part two simpler, and wait till the fight which is sure to erupt has a pause in it. Then tug his weapon closer. In a perfect world, he will be the sort who would follow it, or hold on to it tightly enough to be dragged with it, over the wall if necessary, back to where you can speak with him.

Look at him quizzically. "Excuse me, I cannot help but notice the drama of what you are doing there, and I am curious as to your reasons. I wish to know if I should be stopping you or aiding you."
>>
No. 160652 ID: 95c3d1

>>160625
>>160629
Unsure we can do that, as he just vaulted into the town.

As for suggestions, lets slowly make our way to the walls, while we track the old man with our Magnetomacy. Bring our reformed bandit with us, telling him to continue talking and ask just who the heck was the old man with the leaping stick.

If deemed necessary, alert guards.

Save >>160399 speech for later use, possibly morning greeting if nothing dangerous happens at night.
>>
No. 160722 ID: 83d747

Well, this is indeed interesting. He has a magic weapon, the 'weight' you feel is likely the gathering of energy or maybe something even more potent.

Seeing as we cannot follow without getting ourselves into this I suggest we do one of two things(or perhaps both if we can manage)

1) Second sight - Spread your energy about the village/city/whatever and view the battle and everything else via the positioning of metal and a bit of common sense. If you cant handle all the input due to your lack of a naturally omnipresent-style thought patterns then focus your mind on the area around him, hopefully encompassing a few buildings so we can see if he has any long range energy attacks.

2) Eagle's Eye - Anchor yourself to something big and hard to move using magnetomancy(I am at a lack of things to suggest as the Earth itself didn't seem to be useful) and simply float upwards until you can view it from a higher vantage. This option will likely be more difficult to pursue but it would allow you to view the conflict with your own eyes.
>>
No. 161006 ID: 427807

Let's talk to this dude, he seems pretty badass. Ask him why he is interested in those two villages, and if he would consider working with us to eradicate bandits.

>>160644
how are you so certain he intends to attack us? Besides his mount growling (probably at the 15', 2500 lb hunk of magic metal in front of it), and the torches dimming as he approached, I see no other cause for alarm at his entrance.
>>
No. 161031 ID: 445c48

>I see no other cause for alarm at his entrance.

Maybe the fact he jumped 30 feet over the goddamn wall with his magic fucking sword and giant beast.

But really, I don't think he'll be any trouble to us, but to the Republic, and probably our image.
>>
No. 161058 ID: d1210a

>>160625
>>160629
>>160644
I attempt to follow this strange individual's trail, trundling up the artificial hillside leading to the town while Derkin runs alongside me, clearly also intrigued. I can here some confusion in the camp behind us, but Oggroth and Ugrokk both quiet the questions, content to continue their sparring until specifically called on, as I have left unannounced before.

The sense of building density I detect through magnetomancy rises to a resounding crescendo, the piece of metal now shining as brilliantly to my senses as several tons of iron, it's magnetic field swelling to radical immensity as it's potency grows. The stranger's blood vibrates in time with the metal of his keen blade, and I feel a flood of activity, as the stranger leaps the remaining distance betwixt them. With my attention already so closely focused on this exchange, and with the now immense magnetic field of the stranger's weapon, I make a snap judgment, now looking to wrest control of the traveler's sword from him through magnetomancy. For a brief instant the weapon resists, it's bond to it's bearer giving me some difficulty, before I halt the previously terminally accelerating blade before it comes in contact with the citizen of Trepany. As both parties react to how events have played out thanks to my intervention, I finally reach the gates of Trepany. Derkin has managed to keep pace with my full speed without suffering for it, and shouts at the guardhouses above the gate.

"Hey, someone jumped over your wall where those torches dimmed!"

As I hear cries being raised even before Derkin finishes speaking, I feel the traveler and likely assassin leap into motion, flying into close contact with the guard near him.... I believe they are fighting unarmed? In short order, the guard's blood is slowing and cooling as the traveler does.... something and reaches for his sword again. It is at this moment Derkin finishes warning the guards. Even as I try to forcibly attract the sword to me, away from the traveler, he manages to grasp his blade and I lose command of it's field, some form of warding now about it. I regret I could not prevent him regaining his weapon, but now that I have observed how fast he can leap twice while paying attention to the iron in his blood, I feel I have a better sense of how swiftly he can move.

I have not yet spoken in presence of the now mobilizing militia, and with the number of eyes now directing towards my own form, I wonder if I should even bother speaking, as explaining now why a golem speaks could wast valuable time. On the other hand, only Derkin is yet beside me, the rest of my forces still at camp some several hundred feet away, and he hardly looks a presentable character with his salvaged arms and armor. But the longer it takes to get this gate open, the less chance I can track down the traveler before he escapes or does whatever he came here to do, and I'd rather assuage my curiosity before the chance eludes me.


What should I do?
>>
No. 161064 ID: 7524b0

>>161058
Can't we just jump over the wall too?
>>
No. 161065 ID: d1210a

>>161064
[Mordre weighs in excess of ten tons, and as of yet has detected no sufficiently stabilized mass with a controllable magnetic field to aid in movement. Mordre is currently unable of leaping over the wall given these limitations.]
>>
No. 161073 ID: 445c48

Whisper to Derkin that he should bugger off and get back to camp.
>>
No. 161080 ID: 7524b0

Maybe you can unlock the gates via magnetomancy, while going
"Hey, let my golem in, I mean to assist and satisfy my curiosity as to what the intruder's nature is!"

If they refuse, then ask if they'll let Derkin in. Tell him to observe from a distance and see what the intruder is doing. Then perhaps you could lift him over the wall via magnetomancy.
>>
No. 161095 ID: 427807

we should explain, quickly, to the militia we mean to help them. Then yell out to the town to open their gates so we can run in and find this dude. Alternatively, we could send derkin in to follow the dude while we circle around the city, trying to see if the dude jumps over the wall again.
>>
No. 161096 ID: cc23b5

Mordre has wonderful scouts with invisible armor for this shit, so why is he going in all 10 tons of armor clanging around? Send scouts to follow the intruder and don't alert the village you're there unless you have to. It's a safe bet they're baddies, so why mess with them until you know numbers and equipment?
>>
No. 161097 ID: 7524b0

>>161096
Only Ugrokk has the stealth field.
>>
No. 161130 ID: d1210a

>>161073
>>161080
>>161095
I command Derkin to retreat to our camp, in the hopes I can use my magely persona and my command of Magnetomancy to clear this situation with some relative speed. Beside, I can modulate my voice rather ably, I plan to start my voice similar to Derkin's and slowly fade it to my normal tonalities. I reach out to the gate before me, and sure enough I can feel heavy nails and large hinges built into it's form.... as well as two metal densities on the opposing side of the gate I must presume are to hold a bar across the door. Thankfully, even this has been capped in metal, so as I begin hailing the guards in a voice blending my own and Derkin's enough I should have no issue claiming ownership of the initial warning, I start pulling metal about to render the gate open before me.

"I say, do let my golem here in, I simply must satisfy my curiosity about that fellow: Whoever it was that simply jumped over your wall. Oh, my apologies, introductions are in order: I am the Mage Mordre, commanding this Soul Grave before you. Well, I believe I may be able to track the intruder, so if you wish to follow..."

I choose to rely upon the image mages have here in the State, hoping to simply brush through the gate that finishes opening as my speech trails off and I begin marching into Trepany, many confused faces looking at me, weapons held at the ready but not being employed. I orient myself on the blood and weapon of the traveler, and march through the town, finding myself making headway towards the large, fortified structure in the middle of town. Some of the guards are already following me at an appreciable distance, and I see others still running about from the initial call of intruder, but thus far there does not seem to be a concerted effort to hunt down this intruder, who stays to the back alleys.... at the cost of speed. As he ducks out of one back passageway, I abruptly loom up before him some dozen or so guards nearby now starting to spot the traveler, momentarily distracted by my presence. For the bare moment, I have the drop on him.


What should I do? Should I try asking him anything, or should I simply leap straight into some sort of action? Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 161154 ID: 427807

ask him what hes doing here, and if he needs any help. find out if he is working for or against the bandits, and if he'd consider working for us
>>
No. 161199 ID: 58ec1e

>>161154

grab him, otherwise he will do that super jump like before and escape. try to seperate him from his weapon with Magnetomancy.
>>
No. 161220 ID: 1f4a75

Why the heck are we chasing him anyway?
Kill him?
Observe him?
Stop him?
Talk to him?
What?

If its talking to him I really think we chose a bad time as he may not be open to discussion after he realizes that we led the guards here.
>>
No. 161223 ID: 97fa59

Grab him. Break an arm and magic away his weapon, if possible. Say: "We are helping these people. It is hard enough as is without killing them. Tell me why and if I like the answer, I won't kill you."
>>
No. 161231 ID: a6ca77

>>161220

I agree. This situation is getting less clear by the minute. Who is this guy? Is he a guy we should ally with? What about these fort dudes? All we know about them is that they decided to build a fort and call it a principality. Are the fort guys good/bad/neutral?

Frankly, I think we've screwed up the situation completely. Before we could have had two potential allies...or at least one potential ally. But by inserting ourselves between both sides, we have probably angered both...Not sure how we can resolve things to our favor unless we just immediately choose a side...
>>
No. 161246 ID: 1f4a75

Fine. Since we came to observe in the first place, I suggest we leave him be. Just stare him down, see what he does. Try to see if he has any runes on his weapon or himself and burn them into your memory.

If you get the chance you can ask him why he's here. If he asks why you want to know or something to that effect simply say that you have a vested interest in what happens around here.
>>
No. 161252 ID: d1210a

>>161199
>>161223
>>161220
Something about this traveler, and more specifically the sword he bears, piques my interest, and in the moment of inaction as the traveler adjusts to having run into me, I reach out my left hand to grab him. I do not wish this one to simply leap away again and avoid my inspection. My hand draws ever closer to his form, and for a brief moment I think it will be that simple, even as I hear the pounding of more feet as the guards that followed me hail more of their brethren.

With a thin flash of light, I feel the sense of weight gathering in the traveler's sword abruptly plummet, as it slices through my index finger, the steel digit falling to the ground as it is severed from my body. Even as my fist closes, he leaps through the newly created opening in my grasp, once more traversing a surprising amount of space with a single leap, alighting on the roof of a nearby building, only taking a moment further to glance at me before his gaze sweeps to the encroaching guards.

>>161246
Thankfully, I payed close attention to the traveler, and note something quite odd: Unless some runes are hidden on the hilt, beneath his hands, his sword is completely unadorned, as are his clothes and body. So then, what is the trick his sword can perform, if not runically based? I find my curiosity well-invested. It is at this time I finally hear some of the town guards start achieving some measure of order.

"Hey, Jorge's dead!"
"What?!"
"Someone broke his neck!"
"We watched the mage's golem the whole time since it entered, couldn't of done it!"
"So that intruder got upgraded to killer then..."
"Quit yammering and catch him!"
"Yes sir!"
"And someone go get Sir Harksburton!"
"On it!"

Well, at least the town seems to be slowly siding with me for my actions. Troops pound past me, my presence clearly no longer as questionable as the traveler turned murderer, streaming into the building the traveler now perches atop. I pick up my fallen finger, considering the cut, the edges surprisingly smooth, but an odd spiral pattern now etched into the injuries surface on both sides draws my attention even as I assure myself that the building before me is far too diminutive for my personage, and that I cannot follow after the guards. I step back to get a clearer view of the traveler, and finally see some of the Trepanese troops have made it to the roof, now approaching the wanderer. Once more I can feel some form of weight, density, or perhaps intensity gathering in his sword as it's magnetic field swells once more, still protected from my grasp. ....Interesting, he has been avoiding static conflict thus far, why would the traveler/killer stand and fight now?


What should I do?
>>
No. 161254 ID: 58ec1e

he appears to be some sort of assassian. the combat skills, magic weapon and superjump and trying to sneak in seem to support.

i would say some bandits dislike the new Principality and sent this assassin to kill their leader. so far we have alerted the guards and led them to this killer, i would bet he is feeling very unhappy with us.

the best course of action for us would be to capture him so we can get a good impression with sir keddik and probally get some info out of the assassin.

i think sir keddic had a similar idea to our own, that being to takeover some of the bandit overrun area and start his own country. this is likely the bandits would send an assassin.
>>
No. 161255 ID: 1f4a75

>>161253
That was before he attacked, I was trying to avoid the appearance that we were on any side of the conflict so that we could claim to be on either or none later.
Now it appears that we have been drafted to the side of the people. I agree that he is likely an assassin, one that very likely comes at a high price.

I wonder if he's a magnetomancer or if there is another party involved...intriguing.
It seems that the price we would pay to capture such a man would be a high one.

While you pursue your quarry, try to reattach your finger using magnetomancy, if it resists your power...
>>
No. 161256 ID: e2020c

>>161252

It is interesting that this traveler has brought such a sword into his possession. He seems to wield it with some philosophy of his. Maybe he is not that chaotic at all! If his warrior code could be revealed, what an investment he would be as an ally! I don't know yet, if we should help him escape, that would be against our own standing and risk the ground under our choises, and risk the earth in our decision and the serenity of our presence, at least for a while so that we might become into bad waters both with the stranger and the townfolk. Our duty is to stand on the side of the people, if this wanderer is some sort of criminal, but to aid our own ultimate agenda, we should find possible middle ground between this wanderer's agenda and the will of the people. I suggest that if the wanderer doesn't slaughter all the guards and escape, but instead surrenders to the will of the people, we should convince him that there's an atonement. If that atonement isn't possible, I think the best option would be to help the stranger escape with as little noise from our behalf as possible.

But the least we want this person as our opponent later times. If he seems at all disaligned with our intentions we should crush him now that we have a chance. But then if we attack him, he might be able cause severe harm and prevent us from achieving the full power. Then again, he might also show be the key ally in future times.

Something says to me that the wanderer might eventually stubbornly oppose our cause. What is the metaphysical meaning of index finger again? Could the wanderer have cut more fingers than just one or did he by some divine whim specifically just cut the index finger? He might have hacked the thumb, that would have meaned a potential ally.

Nah... Leadership and power. Lack of it, defacing of it. Loosing the grip of power. There is no retreat. We must crush this man.

Help the guard.
>>
No. 161296 ID: 427807

>>161256
we are a criminal, what are you talking about justice for!?

this guy is definitely an assassin, lets just follow him and see where he goes/who he kills. Lets try not to get involved in the situation more then we already are. A little more information is needed about this guy before we act.
>>
No. 161337 ID: 58ec1e

lets see how the guards fair, after they enevitably fail throw a hand full of dirt at him with the throwing magic active(cant remember name)
like with the bandit king we want to capture him for his magic. if only to find out just how much those bandits have
>>
No. 161339 ID: 58ec1e

>>161296
were not a member of any nation or country. therefore we cannot break their laws as we are nither bound or protected by them.

also, why should we wait and watch a bandit assassin kill a possible allie? if we capture or kill him we can learn of more of his magic than by just watching him.
>>
No. 161346 ID: 445c48

If you think he can hear you, shout something about how you just wanted to ask him about his sword and then go sit down somewhere.
>>
No. 161351 ID: d1210a
File 127075963365.jpg - (244.96KB , 900x1165 , Keddic Harksburton Headhunting.jpg )
161351

[DAY 64]

>>161254
>>161255
>>161256
As the day transitions from late night to early morning, I decide that there is no other rational explanation for this traveler's behavior than that they are an assassin. Coupled with the bandit presence that hangs so heavily over this area, and the radical change in this town apparently having taken place since this Sir Keddic Harksburton the 4th arrived. Combining this data, it seems logical to assume the assassin is here for Keddic's head. And if Sir Harksburton has been laboring to restore order to this land as I surmise, then I could likely use him. I decide that I shall continue assisting the guards. While doing so, I replace my severed finger and hold it in place with Magnetomancy as I begin repairing the breach. Thankfully the spirals on both sides of the injury match up, and all I have to do is reseal the surfaces and my hand is whole.

I feel the weight building in the assassin's sword reach it's peak again, and recollecting what had happened before, I act assertively, taking hold of every bit of magnetic field I can sense about the guards, and yanking them back, out of the swords path before it is swung, tugging them with arms and armor both. The sword slashes through empty air, meeting none of the opposition it's owner was anticipating, the guards spared. Yet the path the blade flashed through now is adorned with a plethora of twisters and cyclones, all growing taller and spinning more violently as the contract, kicking up a large amount of thatching from the roof's surface. In this moment of confusion, when combat is disengaged for the moment, I see the assassin once more perform one of his astounding leaps, sailing through the air to another roof top, something about his travel through the air odd, though I still could not say how. I can hear mutters and shouts from the roof above, and know the guards present their to have suffered no ill effect from my rough handling. I address the guards still on ground level about me, trying to dispel the confusion that still slows them as I track the killer, still working his way towards the large building in the center of town.

"I surmise this intruder is an assassin, Here on contract, possibly by the bandits about. Tell me, is there anyone of note in this village? Someone that a contracted killer could be sent after?"

I ask my questions as I continue trundling after the assassin, once more darting about on foot, while the guards still swarm about. My questions attract more attention to me, and I find myself becoming something of a focal point for the guards, as they follow me following the assassin.

"Uh, well, I'm not sure if-"
"We got the three council members of the Republic, Drenath, Lierio, Yu-"
"They were just regular villagers before, really."
"The council members are in the large building at the center of town."
"But they've been council members for what, six months?"
"Haven't really done much yet, just finished last bits of fortification."
"For now. Just you wait, Yurkaht will say we need even MORE defenses-"
"Quite yer belly-achin'!"
"Yes sir!"

Once more, the assassin takes a tremendous leap, and I lumber forward in a bid to catch up, but I see the assassin slash his sword at the large doors before him as he nimbly lands on the ground with a roll that ends with him running, weight building in his sword once more. I see a large shape rising to stop him within the fort, and I cannot grasp hold of the equipment about his body, as with his weapon still on his back, I could hardly think him read to face such as this. As the sword's density, it's gathering of potency peaks and it flashes forth, I regret I can do nothing for-

The sword comes into contact with the large figure's side, and I feel some blood with unusually large amounts of iron shift from the impact in the large figure's body, but the blade is halted, and the blood seethes about the wound, and I here a confident, deep-bellied laugh ring out.

"AH HAH, and that is all? I'd hoped for some spirit from you for gallivanting about Trepany like some scoundrel, but this? An attack lacking heart, lacking the weight of your soul will never fell a scion of the esteemed Harksburton lineage!"

An arm rises and strangely the sword on the figure's back is not drawn, the arm is simply tensed while the assassin struggles to pull his blade away, only to find the blood binding it in place, holding it firm in it's implacable grip.

"NOW, THIS IS HOW YOU PUT YOUR LIFE BEHIND AN ATTACK!"

I feel something vaguely similar to the weight and potency I felt in the assassin's sword burst into existence, gathering about the large figure that the assassin assaulted, the energies circulating about the form for a bare instant before surging into the arm as it whips about, the power condensing in the clenched fist hurtling onward. The assassin releases his blade and leaps back as he raises his arms, attempting to ablate as much of the impact as possible.

The fist tears through the assassin's flesh and bone like paper, blasting a gory trail straight through the assassin's upper torso. His head detaches as the fist passes underneath it, tumbling through the air before slapping onto the ground with a soft finality. The large figure takes a moment to rummage about some pockets on his form, and start to pack an old wood pipe with some dried material. The figure gathers a glimmer of the weight about itself it did a moment past, letting this power gather deep in it's belly as it breathes in. The power shifts and writhes as the figure exhales, and a tiny plume of fire puffs from it's mouth, falling upon the bowl and it's contents.

The figure leans down to grasp the assassin's head beside it's foot as it walks forth, busily puffing away at it's pipe. As the figure walks into the light, I see a shock of golden hair and a well-groomed beard atop an eight foot tall, heavily muscled man, some blood staining his side.... and I note the sword still gripped in his blood. Interesting.

The man addresses the guards in general gathered about me.

"All right, what's all this then? Can you blighters not manage to catch one measly intruder? Ah, and here I was hoping for a good bit of sport.... On that note, what is a Soul Grave doing here? Come now, do speak up, there's a good fellow!"
"Ah, Sir Harksburton, this is.... ah, well...."
"'E said that he's a 'Mage Mordre.' Shouted a warning to the guard about the intruder..."
"And opened our gates!"
"To follow the assassin, obviously."
"Good thing, Chalrick woulda been toast on his own roof back there!"
"Yeah, he can do magic-"
"Well obviously, he said he's a mage didn't he?"
"But why is it just a golem then? Where is he?"

Keddic seems to have heard enough, and silences the rabble with a tremendous clearing of his throat.

"AHEM, allow me to introduce myself. I am Sir Keddic Harksburton The Fourth, heir to the Harksburton estates, and it would seem you came to my aid. I could hardly sleep with the ruckus being made, so I had no issue awaking, ah-hah, yes......."

...Keddic seems to be waiting for me to introduce myself, as any proper gentleman would.


What should I say?
>>
No. 161358 ID: e31d52

>>161351

introduce yourself as per usual. Mention your plans in passing.

Finish with a semi-serious offer to shake his hand.
>>
No. 161360 ID: 1f4a75

>>161358
This and magnet draw the assassins sword to yourself.

If there are truly no runes on it then I think that he and Keddic are elemental magic users... of a sort. The assassin wind and Keddic fire. In any case this is just a guess.
>>
No. 161361 ID: 6834bc

>>161360
Isn't the assassin's sword still stuck with blood to Keddick's torso? Ripping it out with Magnetomancy might not be... well, it probably wouldn't be very smart, I think.

...Anyway, there's got to be something we can say or do to get the assassin's soul without scaring everyone else around here. I bet it has all sorts of useful and delicious information.
>>
No. 161362 ID: 1f4a75

>>161361
Oh right, it's in his side. My bad.
>>
No. 161365 ID: 445c48

Well, I'm not exactly an eloquent speaker, so listen to someone else.

But make sure to hold out your siege fist as though to shake hands.
>>
No. 161366 ID: 7524b0

Yes, I agree we should ask for permission to claim the assassin's soul.
>>
No. 161402 ID: a6ca77

>>161358
>>161361

Voting these.
>>
No. 161414 ID: 7524b0

>>161351
"Well met, Sir Harksburton. I offered only a brief explanation to the guards in my haste, so let me clear things up now! I'm controlling this Soul Grave via a form of long-distance magical control. I won't go into much more detail than that though! I've yet to publish my results, after all, and I'd still like to try a few modifications to my setup here. The instruments take up almost all the space in my room! It's just too inefficient to publish now. Why, some upstart novice would surely improve the efficiency within weeks, as it stands now. Perhaps, if I tweaked this or... no, maybe... AH, but I digress.

I can't help but have noticed that the assassin had some magical affinity. With your permission, might I add his soul to the golem to augment its abilities?"
>>
No. 161419 ID: 275a5d

Didn't the guy have an animal with him? Where is it?
>>
No. 161434 ID: 427807

grab that sword the assassin dropped.
>>
No. 161484 ID: 716eb0

>>161419
I was wondering this some time ago as well. He put a collar on it then.. what, left it standing there while he jumped the wall?
>>
No. 161486 ID: 445c48

>>161361
After introducing yourself, ask permission to see the sword and the assassin's corpse, to sate your scientific magical curiosity.
>>
No. 161503 ID: d1210a

>>161358
>>161360
>>161361
>>161365
>>161366
>>161402
>>161414
>>161434
>>161486
I extend my open left hand to Keddic as I begin speaking, and find him vigorously shaking it almost reflexively..... though I note a sense of passive weight in his hand: I doubt he simply leaves himself undefended.

"Well met, Sir Harksburton, I am the Mage Mordre. I offered only a brief explanation to the guards in my haste, So let me clear things up now! I'm controlling this Soul Grave, you see, Via a form of long-distance magical control. I won't go into much more detail than that though! I've yet to publish my results, after all, and I can still improve it further, So I labor onwards, until this is a bit more manageable system. The instruments take up almost all the space in my chambers! And sometimes the harmonization of the sensory input can be off.... ..Hm, perhaps, if I tweaked the... no, maybe with... AH, but I digress. Now, I can't help but have noticed that the assassin had some magical affinity. With your permission, might I add his soul to the golem to augment its abilities? It is a bit hard to conduct experiments without fully suitable magical capacities, In terms of what the golem itself can do. Oh, and if I could inspect the sword, I would appreciate that as well. So, would you mind, Sir Harksburton?"

Another belly laugh greets my response as Keddic speaks with far more informality in his voice.

"Ah, finally another student of the arts.... well, I approach it from the Combat Magic side, though I have learned a trick or two in the Arcane field. But still, a means of controlling a golem? Most astounding, it seems quite responsive, and the safety this offers... ah, forgive an enthusiast's ramblings, I imagine you know how important your research could be. Ah, would be most invigorating to go back to my post, and see how war changes after you submit your findings, eh? Ah, but I digress, please, feel free to help yourself to that scoundrel's soul, I would not begrudge a resource that does me no good. And here, you may inspect the sword, but know I fully intend to keep it as a trophy, it looks to be from the Land of Dragons to the south, unless I mistake it, should be a wonderful piece to reminisce about later in life!"

And with that he releases my hand and steps aside, plucking the sword from his blood's grasp to toss into my now empty hand, and I intrude far enough to reach the soul still lingering about it's body. I can see it gathering itself together ever so slowly, perhaps it would eventually become whole and potentially dangerous or resist my attempts to consume it. I choose to leave inspecting the blade for later, to assure it will not have that time. I inhale the pieces of the soul, ensnaring them as my own.

+1 HERO SOUL (HUMAN): LUO OF THE WINDING PATH


CHOOSE SOUL'S EFFECT:

--Soul travels to right shoulder, for an augmentation of the blade launcher and munitions
--Soul travels to right claw, for some augmentation of the Sable Executioner
--Soul travels to torso, for some augmentation of Dulu's copied runes and their bindings
[YOU CAN ONLY CHOOSE ONE]
>>
No. 161517 ID: 7524b0

>>161503
Torso!
>>
No. 161524 ID: e31d52

>>161503
Wait, what sort of Heros we got? It might be best to spread them as much as possible.
>>
No. 161527 ID: d1210a

>>161524
[Fang-Taker and the fragment of Thomro the Strong's soul are in the left hand, as a Soul Nexus. Ozmand The Hammer's soul is in the left shoulder, in the anti-golem cannon. Merrack the Swift's soul is diffused through the body for general enhanced alacrity and rate of movement.]
>>
No. 161530 ID: e31d52

>>161527
Then Sable Executioner.
>>
No. 161547 ID: a6ca77

>>161503
Which runes are we talking about w/ the torso?
>>
No. 161552 ID: d1210a

>>161547
[The only runes actually on the torso, those Arkus copied onto your form from your recollection of the runes on Dulu's eight-sided staff, the form his weapon took when annulled of magic. Thus far the only use you have been able to elicit is one rune with an activated shield about your own magnetic field, though whether this is due to a mismatch of the other runes to your body or due to a lack of appropriate triggers is unknown, the runes are beyond the ken of those you have asked.]
>>
No. 161560 ID: 7524b0

So basically guys if we enhance the blades or the executioner, we know that we'll get some extra offensive 'spiral' effect. Remember the tornadoes and spiral cut pattern?

However, he also had the ability to cut off his weapon from our magnetic pull. If we enhance the torso runes, we'd get a better magnetism-related ability.
>>
No. 161576 ID: 7d3697

I totally agree with the idea to add them to our torso and maybe gain more control over the runes that we do not know much.
>>
No. 161580 ID: e4c1a9

I also vote Torso.
>>
No. 161610 ID: 45be60

Adding it to our hand would improve our burgeoning soul nexus though, probably improving our ability to multicast spells in addition to cool weapon special effects.
>>
No. 161620 ID: 275a5d

Sable Executioner.
>>
No. 161627 ID: 7524b0

>>161610
We can't put it into that hand.
>>
No. 161634 ID: 427807

my vote: blade launchers. seriously, if we get those suped up enough, nothing could stop them!
I'm thinking siege blades...
>>
No. 161638 ID: 903f16

>>161503
Voting for the Sable Executioner. That guy's little trick managed to slice off one of our digits and if we plan on taking on other golems then it'd be a helpful trick to pull out of our hats. I mean we're not made of the strongest metal possible, but it's still an impressive feat all the same.
>>
No. 161641 ID: 445c48

Right shoulder. Probably get some spiral stuff on our blades. Less of a chance to lose the shoulder than the hand, too. Well, maybe, different materials and all. It's very reusable, especially since we can magic the blades back. In addition, I think we can change the mortar on the shoulder without damaging the soul, though it'll take longer.
>>
No. 161643 ID: 445c48

>>161638
Well, maybe we will be able to do that with our blades, at a distance!

probably not
>>
No. 161654 ID: 445c48
File 127078566659.jpg - (6.31KB , 160x176 , Cdno021.jpg )
161654

Also, all this talk of spirals and such makes me wonder if putting it in our chest will let us do a Top Spin.


Also if we ever get a drill arm this soul would be awesome
>>
No. 161658 ID: 2aaaf1

>>161503
Sable Executioner. We've spent so much time upgrading all our new stuff that we've completely neglected our original weapon. Sable Executioner is the very symbol of our home, give it some love.
>>
No. 161659 ID: 97fa59

First! Let us try and read this soul's last few thoughts, discover just what it was trying to do when it failed here.

Next! Sable Executioner - Everything else is more temporary, while the Sable is just going to be improved upon and, honestly, we need to up our cutting arm. We have two souls in one hand, and none in the other. That's just not kosher!

Third! We need to walk and talk with Sir Keddic Harksburton The Fourth, heir to the Harksburton estates. Profess a interest in the combat side of magic!
'As a researcher, I can say that the joys of combat magic have always been lost to me, however with this spell, hehehe, I can really enjoy the power you experience! Combat is so invigeroating, isn't it? You took his head clean off! pow! Zing! One hit! My good Aunt Mary, you must show me how you did that.'
Tell him we have a small band of warriors assisting us on our tests and if they would be welcome in town. Ask if we can help - we did rouse him from his sleep, after all, and a gentleman should help a gentleman!
>>
No. 161662 ID: 97fa59

>>161654
>>161654
Also: Our's is the claw that will drill the heavens.
>>
No. 161706 ID: 445c48

>>161658
Just wanted to say:

Claw arm is the first thing we upgraded.
>>
No. 161731 ID: d1210a

>>161530
>>161620
>>161638
>>161658
>>161662
The soul comes to rest inside Sable Executioner.... no, not just the claw, but the arm as well, it anchors itself widely.... strange that I can sense it so much more clearly now then the last time I gained a heroic soul. I try to grasp some thoughts from the soul as it settles in, and find some vague thoughts of a place called the Land of Dragons from far to the south, and some sort of contract on Keddic's life this one accepted. Beyond that, I can glean nothing at the moment. The soul of Luo of the Winding Path brings to my claw.... a sense of being hinged, like a new method of flexing. The connection between my claw and the rest of my arm, made of the same black steel as the blades of Sable Executioner, now has a decided spiral pattern to it, that runs the whole way up to the claws. I can feel the soul striving to apply it further up the arm, but it cannot seem to breach the border between Black Steel and the poor man's equivalent to steel, a mass of iron with a very low carbon concentration.

I attempt to manipulate this newfound degree of.... sensation in Sable Executioner, and find the spiraled connection between arm and claw unwinding, three Black Steel ribbons sprouting from my arm, each adorned with a blade of Sable Executioner. I find the entire length of metal ribbon to be finely saw toothed and lightly scalpelized the same as the Sable Executioner, and realize the blades have grown some several feet. While my original reach with my blades has grown by some seven, possibly eight feet, pushing the total reach I have with my right arm (with Sable Executioner 'unfurled') somewhere in excess of twenty feet. And with each length of blade malleable, flexible, I could likely engage more simultaneous targets. I wonder if I found enough Black Steel that I could convert my entire right arm into it, if the soul's..... roots, I suppose, would allow this effect it's had to spread even further..... a thought to consider. I see Keddic glancing appreciatively at Sable Executioner's new form, and.. re-furl, I suppose, the blades into its passive, compact state, the three blades once more parallel upon the end of my arm. Though as I tense the tips of the Sable Executioner, I see them bend this way and that, and know I could likely fold them into some limited measure of other arrangements.... though with each ribbon-blade of Sable Executioner coming out of my arm at points of an equiangular triangle, I am confined in my choices.

I turn my attention to the sword of the assassin from the south, from the Land of Dragons, both appraising it's form and it's magnetic fields now that I bear the soul of it's master and it is no longer warded from me. I see no runes on the blade, no matter where I look, and the hilt is similarly bare of visible enchantment. But I can still feel a great deal more.... not quite weight, or potency, but whatever the blade built up when the assassin prepared to strike, some of it still remains passively in the blade. And this irregularity draws my interest, as there is absolutely no evidence of decay in it's perceived 'weight' to my senses. But beyond that I can tell nothing more. I turn back to Keddic, returning his trophy, as he now calls the sword, as I attempt to move beyond this recent gain, and capitalize on my positive entrance into Trepany.

"Ah, most excellent, and thank you for letting me appraise your trophy, 'Twas most kind of you to let a stranger so handle it, especially in this form:"

"Ah, think nothing of it mage Mordre, I would always indulge a healthy bit of curiosity, it keeps the blood pumping, I'll tell you that! And might I say, those.... tentacle-inclined moving ribbon blades of yours look quite astounding, and most impressive. I imagine they are quite a gruesome weapon of war, capable of some real destruction. I'll tell you, it was a sad day when the Mosmordren Empire fell, the best foes anyone could hope for dried up, and the Soul Graves got snatched up and most of them horded away. What point is there to a functioning weapon of war, of that caliber, mind you, that isn't being used? I can understand a sword, suits of armor, but a weapon as potent as any of the Soul Graves are deserve to be used, and replicated! Why, imagine the incredible battlefield it would be, with deathly metal golems all about, bringing war to such a height that I could continue to hone the Harksburton way of fighting. Has been passed down the family since it's founding, every generation encouraged to improve it, for the betterment of the family, and it has become quite a respectable art, if I may boast about my own family, ah-hah! Well my dear fellow, I do believe I note there being some several other individuals lurking about outside the Republic of Trepany, could they perhaps be friends of yours?"

"Ah, you likely refer to the twenty five I have with me, A collection of northerners I have in my service, my apprentice, Two Alchemical Warriors I test, an assistant, oh, and one more: One of the northern barbarians, but well-versed in a strange magic, I have been finding his council from a differing approach insightful. Now, do you suppose there is room for my group in this town, At least for the night? I warn you many of them are large."

"Some Alchemical warriors, and a tribal perspective on magic, fascinating! And good to see you brought your apprentice along, can't learn all that well stuck in some lab or tower all day can they? Yes, of course there is room, beyond fortifications, the Republic of Trepany here has had a great deal of success building several tunnels and catacombs beneath the town, and have set a wonderful collection of mushrooms, potatoes, garlic and kweah-seah, an edible moss that glows in the dark I found in an earlier venture down south, quite extraordinary really. Anyway, the tunnels are all braced, and the Republic has enough food that beyond being self sufficient, proper hospitality can be offered to visitors, as any place a gentleman calls home should! Now!"

He addresses the guards still milling about, who hinge upon his words.

"Now be good sports and clear up some space for mage Mordre's, eh?"
"Ah, yeah, right on that!"
"Yes sir, ah, sir Harksburton!"
"On it!"

Keddic yawns, and motions at the house he resided in.

"Well, it is quite late, and if you don't mind, I'd rather continue introductions in the morning. I'd rather get some sleep, you understand."

As Keddic excuses himself, I meet with my troops as they enter Trepany, and find Arkus giving me a strange report of the beast the assassin was accompanied by having left some time before the shouting stopped, and the republic started to quiet down. The beast simple loped off to the south, disappearing into the distance. My group is gratefully led into a large warehouse, with a trapdoor at the end, likely to the tunnels Keddic mentioned, where my followers gratefully start to rest. I currently stand within the shed with them.


What should I do? Should I wait until dawn, or wait for Keddic to call on me, or should I wait for some other event? Or should I go do something else?
>>
No. 161854 ID: 427807

ask derkin or arkus if they know anything about the blade luo had, perhaps?
Lets wait til morning, then see what this Keddic can offer us in terms of help for fighting the bandit king.
>>
No. 161855 ID: e4c1a9

Who came out on top in the sparring? It's interesting to see how everyone is developing. I suggest we let them all rest until dawn(or a few hours after that) unless they want to do otherwise.
>>
No. 161914 ID: d1210a

>>161854
>>161855
I reflect on the sparring I saw earlier, noting that while Oggroth's followers started strong, taunts and heated matches made their movements sloppy, so they lost headway in later fights. Ugrokk's followers were able to be patient, but had difficulty dealing with the brutal, unflinching charges Oggroth's followers are sometimes wont to do. I suppose if I could suggest some manner to solve these problems, they could evidence improvement. I consider possible means of honing the skill of my followers outside of actual combat as the sun slowly rises, and Trepany awakens properly at last. I see bustle, activity and industry about the village, easily several hundred people visible about the walled enclosure of houses. I see several opening doors in the ground and marching down ladders, I assume to work on the crops in the catacombs. I recognize Keddic in charge of several dozen guards, leading them in some drills and practice, badgering them with good nature as he puffs upon his pipe. He sees me exiting the storehouse and hails me over, ordering the trainees to 'muck about on their own for a bit, see if they can't knock some sense into one another's skulls' before he addresses me.

"And good morning to you old bean, I see your late night venture did not lead to oversleeping, ah-hah, yes. Well now, since we took care of our introductions earlier today, as it were, let us get straight to the point: What has brought you to the Republic of Trepany?"

"Well, I happen to have aims on this 'Lord Barcho' character. I intend to reclaim the State research outpost he has lain claim to, And use it as a proper base for all my endeavors here. Be it gathering research data, or restoring some civility to the land, I imagine both will be easier with such resources. And on that note, I wonder if perhaps Trepany would be willing to aid me, and if a certain esteemed member of the Harksburton line might join me?"

"Ah-hah! Yes, quite interesting! Well, it would seem our purposes align rather well indeed on some critical issues, namely, on Lord Barcho. As far as I have been able to tell, the upstart ruffian controls a fair bit of the criminal activity about this area, and he has made his base a rather convenient gathering place for any would-be group of opportunists. As it is, we have to deal with at least one bandit raid a week, though the lads have fared quite well in our recent bouts, now isn't that right!"

A loud cheer goes up from the trainees before Keddic shushes them, and continues speaking to me.

"Now, the only issue here that I see, is the specifics about actually attacking that scoundrel Barcho. While he doesn't have an unlimited supply of them, I have noted some of his troops bearing tiny trinkets that could become weapons of considerable size at a touch, and some form of man-size artillery, A hand-cannon, as it were. Blasted things are a mess to deal with. And because he keeps patrols armed with such special arms as those near the outpost he claimed, I have not yet had the time to lead an expedition for some solid reconnaissance on his position.

I could hardly call the Trepanese militia here up to snuff by my standards, I'd rather not see them go into battle without a firmer grasp of what they shall face. They've just had to deal with some scuffles with small groups of bandits, a well-armed, larger force like that could really give them some trouble. 'Twould be a shame to see all this effort teaching them how to fight properly go to waste. So as much as I would like to simply hare off and march against the bandits with you, I shall stay here in Trepany, and try to expedite their preparations.

But if you DO find out some worthwhile details about this Barcho's forces, well, I would be simply pleased to wage a jolly enjoyable war against the bandits alongside you, and I imagine that the Trepanese militia would be happy to have some help gaining safety in their surroundings."

A rejection, but not a complete one: I simply need a better position from which to request aid, from an intelligence standpoint concerning Lord Barcho. That should be a straightforward solution, or so I hope. Keddic glances past my form at the Premen in the warehouse speculatively, before addressing me once more.

"You know, an idea has occurred to me. Considering how large your tribals and those two Alchemics of yours are, I was wondering if I could borrow them for a while, to expedite my training of the militia here? Would make wonderful practice partners to teach how to use teamwork against larger, stronger foes, a rather useful trick for armed forces to know, if I do say so myself. I would be grateful for the assistance if you can spare them."


What should I say or do?
>>
No. 161934 ID: e4c1a9

A splendid idea, I was just wondering how we could get to stay here longer.

I would like for all the Premen to learn English (or whatever the common language is) and for the mages to finish up that special language.

If our scouts learn common then they could get better info from scouting and for Oggroth and his guys it would be good mental training, you know master of the pen and sword, yadda, yadda, yadda.
>>
No. 161937 ID: e4c1a9

>>161934
Oh yea I was thinking on a time scale of around two weeks here. Not too long not too short.
>>
No. 161956 ID: 427807

>>161937
you know, learning a completely new language is a very, very time consuming process. At the very least we would be looking at a 6 month plan here. Although, who says they have to remain stationary to learn the language? Arkus and Derkin could attempt to teach them, and we could help with some of the translations when necessary...interesting.

In the meantime, lets send Ugrokk and two premen on a spy mission to find barcho's camp, and find a more detailed number of men barcho commands
>>
No. 161966 ID: a6ca77

>>161937

Don't forget we have a time limit on how long Verther's mage skin will stay usable...we only have approximately a month IIRC...if we add in travel times and such...we only can wait around here like 2.5 weeks max I think...
>>
No. 161967 ID: e4c1a9

>>161956
>>161966
Which is why I said two weeks. Get them started on the new language without waiting too long. I don't expect them to learn the language so quickly, especially if it is English which is apparently one of the most difficult languages to learn in the world.
>>
No. 161974 ID: 716eb0

Two weeks is probably a bit long. There is other stuff we may want to accomplish before we absolutely must head back. Learning the language can and should be a gradual process in any case, we needn't worry too much about getting it all done now. I wouldn't want to stay here longer than a week. In that time, the premen can learn some basics of the language as part of helping train the guards. Start with simple commands like "begin" and "stop" and "ohgodohgodpleasestopIsurrender" They would certainly benefit from further training against opponents the size they are likely to face on a daily basis. Most of their experience is against Yeti and eachother.

See if you can arrange a place to store the mage skin in the catecombs while you are here. They seem more suited to long term storage than any place we have yet encountered.
>>
No. 161975 ID: 7524b0

Ugrokk has that stealth field he can use... this will allow us to gather intel easily.

Perhaps we can follow him at a distance to lend aid with magnetomancy, in case he is discovered?
>>
No. 161977 ID: a6ca77

>>161967

I don't agree with this. I'm not sure exactly what you mean, but I think your plan is either to...

1) Spend all of two weeks teaching them (days,nights, etc)

I disagree with this b/c we only 3 weeks maximum to have our forces here before we need to send someone back with the skin...We need every warrior fighting.

2) Teach them in the evenings/spare time during the two weeks.

If this is what you meant, I just don't see how it would be worthwhile. In two weeks the best mastery you could hope for would be the ABC's and some simple words. We might as well use that time to scout, train, or launch attacks....
>>
No. 161980 ID: bbdfae

Moving quickly on this is important... we must acquire four additional mage skins in the next three weeks. While sitting around and training is great and all, it doesn't do anything to forward that goal, and so must be abandoned. A day or two can be spent on it at most.
>>
No. 162007 ID: e4c1a9

I was thinking more about future benefits where the language thing was concerned but I agree that the mage thing takes priority. Really wouldn't want all that Verther stuff to go to waste.
I was assuming that Kyorto would have her own methods of preservation that far surpassed what she taught Arkus but I could be wrong and that would be most unfortunate. But if there is no super preservation spell then the acquiring five skins before one rots is nigh impossible unless we found some gathering of mages that were not too strong (but not too weak) and close enough to get back in time.
>>
No. 162024 ID: 58ec1e

>>161914

we should probaly mention that creature we encountered. deffinately the sort of thing you would want a warning about.
>>
No. 162037 ID: d1210a

rolled 2 = 2

>>161934
>>161956
>>161966
>>161974
"I accept your offer, Sir Harksburton. But I have a request of my own, if I may: I wish your men to attempt to communicate with my followers, I have been finding the language barrier they possess most irksome, And I would appreciate it if in your bouts that could be worked on. I am not expecting miracles here, I hope you understand. hah! But things like 'begin,' 'stop,' 'ohgoddontkillme,' you know: The important things for an armed force to know, right?

"HAH, a good sense of humor that! Of course, I wouldn't dream of not being amenable when asking a favor! Now, if you could be so kind as to ask your tribals to come out? They won't need their weapons for now, or their armor, as I expect they have quite thick hides of their own, eh?"

I take a moment to comply with Keddic's request, while sending Ugrokk and two of the scout Premen to seek out some data on Lord Barcho's forces so that I might sway Keddic and Trepany to my side. I turn back to Sir Harksburton as concern for the long term viability of Verther's skin rises in my thoughts.

"Say, would you mind if we store our supplies underground? I imagine it is a might cooler down there, yes? Oh, and I do eventually have an appointment to the West, So I do hope to see a resolution to the 'Lord Barcho' issue soon, And as such I hope I will be able to count on your support."

"Ah, please, feel free to move your things into the tunnels, we have several that aren't being used for crops yet, plenty dark and cold. And as to the time constraints, I understand completely, sometimes things happen. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to see to organizing this bit of joint training, now don't I?"

We part ways and set to our individual tasks, and shortly the Premen are engaging groups of militia in sparring matches, and the sounds of their collective exertions assail the area as I order Arkus and Jojo to continue work on their magic language and learning more of each others' language. Finally, I aid Derkin in transporting our supplies (Verther's body included, carefully wrapped in cloth) into one of the tunnels where no plants yet grow. Once I finish, I spend the rest of my time this day working as a translator between Arkus and Jojo, trying to use my knowledge to expedite their communal learning. By the time Keddic sends the Premen warriors back, night has fallen, and all look completely exhausted. They explain that apparently, all the inhabitants of this town eventually got to give a try at engaging each of them as groups, and that after all that, they are quite exhausted. Oggroth in particular mutters about wanting to have a chance to fight Keddic directly, and pouts about not having had the chance after all that to do so yet. I go over what the Premen learned of the common tongue with Jojo and Arkus assisting me for a brief period, refusing to let them rest until I am sure they understand some bare bones basics, at least enough to recognize someone asking to surrender, and a few other important concepts. After I satisfy myself that the warriors simply are too tired to learn anymore, I return to Arkus and Jojo, to find them similarly drained. A quick check outside the warehouse shows the night much later now than I thought, and I leave my followers to their devices as I decide to stroll about Trepany, and familiarize myself with it's layout.

[DAY 65]

I continue marching about the town well into the night and into the next morning, and.....
>>
No. 162042 ID: d1210a

>>162037
As the sun rises, I still have not heard anything from my scouts, though as the outpost I seek is some distance away and it's exact location not known, I find myself unconcerned as of yet. The town fills with activity again, and shortly a runner is addressing me, asking if my warriors are available for more sparring practice, as asked by Sir Harksburton.


What should my decision be? And beyond that, what should I do with this day?
>>
No. 162059 ID: 7524b0

>>162042
Let's go out to a wooded area and try messing with Immortal Genocide a bit. It wants to feed, how about we actually feed it a physical object instead of having it leech life? Or punch a tree with it.
>>
No. 162060 ID: 7524b0

>>162042
Oh and yeah, let them spar some more.
>>
No. 162236 ID: bf4d72

To the Runner:
"Oggroth, my Mountain of Strength, wishes to duel with Sir Keddic Harksburton The Fourth. He has been instant and will have no other way, I'm afraid! With his ponderous strength he feels up to the task, ha-ha! I would sorely wish to watch such a duel, I must admit - I have to say that the joys of combat have always been lost to me, however with this spell, hehehe, I can really enjoy the experience! Combat is so invigorating, isn't it? Mhhm. Yes, yes, that would be interesting, and it would give me some interesting data to run. Tell me, would You like to duel?" "No? Hah! I wouldn't tell Sir Keddic Harksburton The Fourth about that weakness, lad! Strength your back bone, stand tall! You're a stapling lad, put some effort into it! But then tell Sir Keddic Harksburton The Fourth that if he bests my strength, then I would like to show him what this body can do! Maybe even some magic tricks I can use, what say you lad? How do you think would win, eh?"
"Well then! If that's all, boy, what may be done about this Well Walled city that I! The Mage Mordre! May do? Is there another assassin lurking about, for that was great fun!"
"Yes, I am sorry for your loss...that reminds me, have you noticed any odd goings on or unusual events? Bandits have a habit of unleashing the unknowable horrors of the world onto villages in this part of the world, and I would rather like to deal with such problems as they arise."

If there are no problems for us to deal with, I'm gonna suggest walking outside the village for now and testing our weapons on local trees and shrubbery. Tell the runner where we've gone, if we're needed.

As for a break down on our testing:
Two hours reacquainting ourselves with the Sable Executioner, finding the extent out this new hero soul. Try everything we saw the Assassin do, and focus on the blade.
An hour and a half with the Immortal Genocide, practicing with the sucking and the punching and wielding it for longer and longer, just trying to get a feel for it.
An hour using and focusing on our runes, trying to make the process instantaneous and trying to use our magic while it's deactivated.
And a half-an-hour on just pure combat - while yes, we are a weapon of pure war and capable of destroying any army almost single handedly, we should not forget the use of practice to become better.
Half an hour on magic - we may need to do this last, after going to get Arkus and Jojo and training with them.
If we can damage ourselves with our Magnetomacy or something not permanent, fifteen minutes training under heavy damage.
>>
No. 162305 ID: bc47bd

>>162236
Seconding the second half of this because the first is just terrible. Ugh.
>>
No. 162308 ID: bf4d72

>>162305
Oh, fine. In less ham-filled terms:
Oggroth wants to fight Sir Keddic.
We want to fight Sir Keddic.
Can we do something around town while we wait.
Have you lot gotten eldritch abominations too? Because those bastards are everywhere.
>>
No. 162309 ID: d1210a

rolled 8 = 8

>>162059
>>162060
>>162236
>>162305
"Certainly, he is welcome to their use once again: But I must note that Oggroth, that large one over there, Well, he is simply adamant about wanting to have a go, At none other than Sir Harksburton himself! Perhaps you could ask him if he would accept? I can understand if he would refuse, he seems quite busy, But Oggroth there is a rather vocal Alchemic, And I must admit he is prone to sulking."

The runner who at first looked at Oggroth with trepidation, likely due to his sheer size, my comments seem to have settled whatever wariness the runner might have had, and with a sharp salute he motions for the Premen to follow him. I make my own departure at this point, asking Jojo and Arkus to continue their collective language endeavors, and march off into the woods, looking to test several things. After marching far enough that I have reached some of the northern woods betwixt the Republic of Trepany and Lord Barcho's base, I appraise the newly altered Sable Executioner. I unfurl the three saw-toothed ribbons of metal, reminding me vaguely of some tentacle-adorned Life golem that I was used against during the war, and I set to testing their abilities. I first try to reach out to the Black Steel's magnetic field, but my Will based Magnetomancy cannot pierce the magic disrupting effect the Black Steel bears. I set to testing my new right arm.

In relatively short order, I have a fairly solid grasp of what this new arm is capable of, after having used it quite liberally, shredding several trees and shattered several stones in the process of gaining this familiarity. The blade-ribbons can roll up easily enough, and are incredibly flexible, but I note that bending them side to side and attempting to twist the blades are significantly more challenging endeavors. Still, the end result is that I now have three independently targeted, magic dispelling, saw-toothed blades, each with greater reach and maneuverability than their prior form, though I note that while unfurled, I cannot put as much weight behind a blow from any individual length of blade.

After satisfying my curiosity to the workings of Sable Executioner, I start testing Immortal Genocide again, finding drawing energy in in small amounts outside of battle far easier now that I have tried it several times, and begin methodically testing the weapon in search of it's primary function. I try punching anything I can find after storing a small charge in my fist, and while I assure myself that no tree or stone can stand before my might, I do not discover the ability I seek. I consider using some live test subjects, but the few types of game I have seen thus far are all smaller than my hand, and will be pulped simply by a regular blow from me. I do come out of this with a rather firm sense that the primary function of Immortal Genocide does involve at least two triggers, one of which is storing power in the Immortal Genocide without releasing it as a dispel, as I could feel some sort of readiness in my hand with power held within, each time I raised my fist. Perhaps there is an issue in what I am using as targets....

I spend some time thereafter trying to get more used to applying Magnetomancy to myself, as a means of improving combat performance. I rather swiftly realize that if I devote one of my two sources of magic to manipulating my own magnetic fields, I can move with significantly increased speed. Further, if I devote both of my sources of magic, self and Soul Nexus each, to controlling my own magnetic fields, I can move with greatly increased alacrity, and in general make my body handle far more responsively than it's bulk and weight would normally imply. This would mean I could not use the Soul Nexus in my left hand while so empowered, but my shoulder implements, Sable Executioner and Immortal Genocide would all still be readily available, as would the Amaranthine Annihilator and Soulfire.

By the time I have concluded my string of tests, night has fallen, and I return to Trepany, wiser for the venture. Upon my return a surprisingly cheerful Oggroth tells me that he could not best the 'Sun-Maned One' through a heavily bruised face, holding his side as he reclines against a wall, Jojo speculatively hovering about Oggroth's massive frame as he works some sort of energy he gathers into Oggroth, tending to his injuries. According to the other Premen, the fight lasted some six hours, with Oggroth finally unable to rise anymore. As I assess the status of my followers, I wonder, what have my scouts learned....
>>
No. 162310 ID: d1210a

rolled 9 = 9

>>162309
...And still I have heard nothing. I wonder how long it must take to make their way through foreign terrain and locate a structure never seen before by their eyes.

As the evening wears on I finally bid Arkus and Jojo goodnight as I conclude our language lessons with my assistance: They seem to be making steady progress at learning one another's tongues.

[DAY 66]

When a runner shows up once more bearing a request from Keddic to borrow the Premen, several groan in exhaustion, though Oggroth, still somewhat abused looking, seems eager for the opportunity.


What should I say or do? And what should I do with my day?
>>
No. 162316 ID: bf4d72

"Ha! Well, the Mountain put up such a fight. Some data on a proper fight would be useful, don't you think boy?" Pick the lad up, and walk towards where we think Sir Harksburton would be. A firm command to get the Premen to follow - guilt them.

"Warriors, do you think that you should cease while your leaders still bravely fight? Rise up and fight!"

Lets go kick ass and train our warriors and ourselves!
>>
No. 162326 ID: e4c1a9

Dang it, is everyone out to get us or something. I'm yet to find people other than the Premen that I do not think has ulterior motives.

Tempted to say no, but I think we should say yes. I wish to see the tactics of these men first hand.
>>
No. 162332 ID: bf4d72

>>162326
Why are we thinking they're out to get us?
>>
No. 162340 ID: bbdfae

>>162310
We have spent enough time here. The failure of our scouts to return is concerning at best; if Ugrokk and the others have not returned by day's end it might be time for reconnaissance in force. By which I mean marching after them and killing anything that threatens us. Make our plans for the day with that in mind, as we'll need our Premen in a fit state to press themselves physically on the morrow.
>>
No. 162347 ID: 7524b0

Allow Kerrick to borrow only those who are up to the challenge. I suspect about half of our troops would still be in fighting form? I'm not sure about Oggroth.

Also, let's try to use the Immortal Genocide's stored charge... targeting OURSELVES.

As for how we should respond, let it be with barely audible snores and mumbles about "Leana" (who is Mordre's chef in my mind) and maple syrup. Upon awakening, there should be an audible thump and a groan, then a groggy and grumpy Mage answering the Runner.
>>
No. 162354 ID: bf4d72

>>162347
Yes. Well, not the Immortal Genocide, at least not in the city and not if we go training.

Anyway, yes, Premen that haven't died on us, Oggroth, and ourselves should go get some training. Wake with mumbles and a love of pancakes. If we have been walking, continue to do so. Act confused as to why people said the SoulGrave as been walking without us.
>>
No. 162358 ID: bf4d72

>>162354
Not -until- we go training, sorry.
>>
No. 162360 ID: 7524b0

Oh wait I think I might need to write a little more than that.

"zzzz... yes, more syrup thank you Leana..."
(Runner speaks up)
"*THUMP* AGH! YES. WHAT."
(runner repeating the request)
"What, MORE sparring? Ugh, yes fine let's see... Hm, not all of them seem to be up for more, so how about half? Yes, Oggroth seems up for more abuse too, how about *yawn* that. (mumble 'I feel like pancakes for breakfast today for some reason')"
>>
No. 162365 ID: bf4d72

>>162360
Mind if I try to ham it up a bit?

We'll wait for the runner to talk a while as he tries to 'wake' us. After the first or second attempt:
"zzzz... yes, more syrup...*snore-snort*zzz...Leana..."
(Runner speaks up)
"*THUMP!* *Loud crashing, as if several books are thrown everywhere.* *Cat hissing, angry and loud. Our body start to spasm in such a way to twist and turn, without hurting anyone nearby. Loud curses and swears* AGH! YES. WHAT? BLOODY CAT! GAH, WHERE AM I?! GAH! Wah...yes, blast it where are my glasses! Yes, you...bloody hell boy where am...YES! Right! Trepany! Er...what was it you said?"
(runner repeating the request)
"What, MORE sparring? Ugh, yes fine let's see... Hm, not all of them seem to be up for more, so how about half?" Turn to Premen. "How does that sound boys? Yes, Oggroth seems up for more abuse too, how about *yawn* that. *mumble 'I feel like pancakes today'* *Loud popping sounds of an old man stretching* Ooh, there's me back. Not as young as I was...mah. *Lip smack* *Another loud pop as if stretching* Damn it, where did Weinsho go? Here puss puss puss...Blasted cat. Shows me what good it is staying up all hours..."
>>
No. 162367 ID: 7524b0

>>162365
Very nice.
>>
No. 162368 ID: bf4d72

>>162367
Thank you. I am suggesting we watch the sparring this time, but I don't know how we add that hammily.
>>
No. 162390 ID: a6ca77

>>162310

I think the reason some of us are wary of this guy is cause we know very little about him besides his name and that he wants to kill barco...

I vote to allow the sparring but while that's happening we have a talk with Harksburton...

I mean, cmon, the dude has the name of Harksburton the 4th...gotta be some interesting story there...Who is he? Where did he hail from? Why did he come here creating Trepany? What are his goals?

I'm not looking for an interrogation or anything, mind you...Just kinda curious...
>>
No. 162455 ID: 45be60

Our men should get SOME rest, half of them for training might work. You never know when they will be called on to fight on short notice though.
>>
No. 162460 ID: e4c1a9

So we send some Pmen to spar while we watch and talk to whatever his name is and send some Pmen to find out what happened to the scouts after about half a days rest?
>>
No. 162464 ID: bf4d72

>>162460
No, we let some of the Premen rest, we go off to watch, talk, and train with the Premen, as well as talk, watch and train with Sir Keddic Harksburton The Fourth and then, if we have heard nothing, we take a handful of scouts and Derkin and go looking ourselves.
>>
No. 162564 ID: d1210a

rolled 8 = 8

>>162316
>>162326
>>162340
>>162347
>>162360
>>162365
>>162455
"zzzzz.....zzzzgk....zzzz.....yes....... More syrup.... zzzz.... Leana, be a dear...."

"Ah.... sir?"

"...*THUMP* *topple* *Hissing cat sounds*..

I jerk an arm upright at an awkward angle and twitch my body about as I continue my charade. I fade in the Mage Mordre's voice as if he regains his position before a transmitter while speaking to someone else amidst the sounds of a turbulent lab.

"-ND YOU KEEP THAT CAT OUT OF.... right, the golem. ...Uh, lets see, fell asleep in the lab, golem in Trepany.... ok..... ...You there, would you mind repeating the question?"

".......A... ..uh, well, ah-hah, Sir Keddic Harksburton The Fourth asks to borrow your troops again, for training. He thinks they have been a big help in getting the Trepanese militia trained, and that-"

"RIGHT, THE SPARRING.... what, more of it? Ugh, fine, let me see...... *yawn*..... Well, Several of my followers seem rather fatigued, So for now why not only take some half of them, And Oggroth as well, as he rather clearly wants more. Tell you what, I'll come along, I have some questions for Keddic anyway."

The Runner salutes crisply before I point out the fresher looking Premen to participate in training, and marches out along with them as I consider what to say to Keddic. I note the runner sparing sidelong glances back at me, and I see him mouth the word 'syrup' with a mirthful chuckle. It would seem my ruse went over smashingly.

[+6 HAM points TOTAL HAM points: 18 NEXT REWARD: 25]

As the Premen make their way into a large group of training militia that Keddic heads up, I see the burly gentleman arranging the fighters into groups, some three or four militia per each Premen, with Oggroth facing Keddic with an eager look on his face. As the fights begin, I note that the Premen demonstrate a marked improvement in their spatial awareness in combat, and do a better job keeping track of multiple foes. This intensive training they undergo as they repeat this training with what seems to be the whole of the Republic's population seems to have significant benefit. I find myself surprised by Oggroth and Keddic's fight, as Oggroth seems to be faring very poorly, unable to stop the smaller and faster Keddic from slipping past his guard for devastating blows, yet no matter how many times he may drop, Oggroth climbs to his feet with seemingly inexhaustible determination. And while he does not manage to ever lay hands on his foe during the time I observe him, it is not for lack of effort: Keddic simply seems to have a knack for not being entrapped. When a rest period begins I address Keddic, hoping to learn more about him.

"If you don't mind me asking, why this? Why the Republic of Trepany? It seems there would be other ways to effect change, To use the power you have."

"True enough, I could just go haring off on my own and give that Lord Barcho a tremendous thumping for his troubles. But what about when a sense of wanderlust takes me? Or if I must leave before restoring order? What should happen to the people then? That is why I find it worthwhile to teach them what they must know to fend for themselves. Although I will admit, teaching farmers how to be soldiers can be a mite hard, many just don't want to kill, be it personal inclination or societal impetus. The hardest part about training a militia, I find, is making sure they can actually apply what they learn when the time comes, and other than a few butchers and hunters, none here have much experience with killing. But I can tell your followers have seen a scrap or two, and a bit of their approach to violence is starting to rub off on the militia, which I think is a wonderful bit of news. Might make the blasted buggers a bit more capable, eh?

As to why it's Trepany, that is simple enough, when I asked they said the town's founder was named Trepany, and so there it is, a simple homage to what started this settlement. I have to say though, the place seems to be pulling together very well, though the amount of questions I have to answer for the citizens can be a bit exhausting. Still, anyone of fine breeding would put up with it, eh? Ah, I must admit, I miss the simplicity of my military days, especially before I became an officer. Honestly, how they expect..."

Keddic continues on with a string of war-based anecdotes and stories as I wonder at the location and state of my scouts. I appraise the horizon one more time as everyone begins to move back in place for the second half of sparring for today, to find.......
>>
No. 162568 ID: d1210a

rolled 6 = 6

>>162564
[2+8+9+8=27 (>20), (>25), 4 rolls]

..Two distant shapes visible on the horizon, though with the distances involved, I can discern no further details at this juncture. No one else seems to have noticed them yet.


What should I say or do?
>>
No. 162580 ID: 1ac39d

>>162568
i can't tell if that is REALLY bad or okay rolls for this situation.
>>
No. 162581 ID: e31d52

>>162568
Uhm...

Well, if he rolled 4d20 and got 27? eeeehehheheh...
>>
No. 162635 ID: 7524b0

>>162568
Notify someone that you're going to go meet what appear to be your scouts. Go out and meet them before they reach the gate... just in case they aren't your dudes.
>>
No. 162777 ID: 427807

Lets wait for (presumably) our scouts to return, and in the meantime ask keddic if he knows of any nearby soldiers or arms or something that will help us when battle time with barcho comes
>>
No. 162934 ID: bf4d72

If we have a zoom feature, lets zoom in in the figures - if we don't have a zoom feature, why the hell don't we have one? Also, there are only two figures coming back - that means something happened to one of them as we sent three out.

Tell this to Sir Keddic Harksburton The Fourth. Then say something like this >>162777 with a bit of carefulness in it. Ask about how the sparring as been going, and how he finds ruling this small town However, sadly inform him that the answers will have to wait, as our scouts might be back and injured if not worse. Pardon ourselves and let him think on our questions.
>>
No. 162948 ID: 427807

>>162934
lets get answers out of him now, while waiting for the scouts to return. if they arrive in the middle of questioning, then we deal with them
>>
No. 162950 ID: bf4d72

>>162948
There's only two of them, rather then three. This bodes ill. It could either be an attack that we're ignoring, some problem that we should deal with personally, or another problem - like say Ugrokk being captured.
>>
No. 162996 ID: d1210a

[Mordre's vision is of superior capability to normal sight, and what he currently sees is what would be visible with a high-quality telescope focused to the appropriate point. Though improvements to his sight beyond that could be made.]

>>162635
>>162777
>>162934
"Sir Harksburton, might I have a moment of your time? I'd like to hear what you think about my barbarian warriors, And the Alchemic Oggroth in particular, as I hear you fought him. So, what is your take on them and their combat capabilities?"

"Well, they're a right sloppy bunch. I mean, don't get me wrong, they got strength, stamina and hardiness enough to make an ex-military like me very curious where you found them, but they have no real cohesive fighting methods, they just attack on impulse. That Oggroth, he probably has more outright strength than some twenty men, and he's taken blows that could fell a normal person without flinching, but he telegraphs everything he does, it's laughable. And I will admit, that they do have some good reflexes as well as some sense of how to be evasive or ablate attacks. But really, they are a largely ungainly bunch of louts, ah-hah! They could really benefit from a dedicated martial instruction and a bit of military discipline, give them that and some more experience, you'll have a right deadly bunch. ....Though I suppose that might have to wait until anyone can understand the bastards, eh?"

"The very reason I got them the armor first, HAH! Well, another though occurred to me recently, One that is relevant to our conflict against Barchos."

"Oh?"

"Yes, specifically, about the existence of other parties, Those that would seek to restore order like we would. I wonder if you know of any such groups operating in the State."

"Well frankly, I haven't heard all that much on that subject. We are a bit isolated here, on the tail end of the state, but I did here that north of here, near the border, some mage seized some three or so outposts, and set up shop, with apprentices and guards, the whole thing. I've heard.... mixed reviews of this individual, but other than that.... you seem a bit distracted. What is it?"

"...I think I see my scouts returning.... And they seem short a member."

"Ah. Well, do what you must old bean, I have the training to attend to. Which reminds me, BREAK'S OVER, BACK ON YOUR FEET YOU MISCREANTS, BACK TO SPARRING!"

I accept the excellent excuse from conversation richer in knowledge, and move out to meet my presumed returning scouts, forebodingly short a member. I find the gates opening without my need to take command of them as I exit the town, the Trepanese citizens now much more familiar with my sight. It takes relatively little time to get close enough to confirm that the individuals are indeed two Premen scouts.... and that neither is Ugrokk. I activate both sources of magic and apply Magnetomancy to myself, gaining a more fluid control of my form and traveling much more swiftly, easily faster than a sprinting human. I shortly reach the two scouts, to find them exhausted, and appearing incredibly fatigued, as if without the sleep fleshlings need for several days. One drops to the ground panting, while the other takes a moment to steady his breathing before telling me of their situation.

"Traveled north, had trouble navigating woods, eventually found paths through, both past villages, and those that skirt them. Found place, should be.... 'Lohrd ..Barrcho's'? Patrols out, two spotted us, Ugrokk stayed to distract trackers so others could flee. Ugrokk wounded, ordered fleeing scouts to return to Mordre. ......What ...what shall metal warrior Mordre do?"


How do I respond to this, and what do I do?
>>
No. 163001 ID: abead8

I say we ask Sir Harksburton to train our troops while we head out to see if we can help Ugrokk.
>>
No. 163002 ID: bf4d72

"Where. Get back to town, tell us were, have everyone follow. We're going to get him back."
>>
No. 163017 ID: bbdfae

>>162996
Move out! Gather our forces, get some supplies if they can be spared, and head for Ugrokk's last known location immediately. Carry the fatigued scouts if possible, since they're probably not up to continuing their forced march. Travel will take some time, so there will be a chance to rest at day's end.

Get more details on what they found- what were the numbers, organization, and armament of their opponents? How close were they able to get? What was the status of the villages, and of Barcho's holdings such as were seen?
>>
No. 163021 ID: 6bcc72

Have the scouts report to the town. We need them rested so they can lead us to the appropriate point, much better than stumbling around by ourselves.
If any of Ugrokk's men are sparring, have them rest, I think we will need men of their stealthy inclination for the extraction of Ugrokk.
I want to leave immediately but a day's rest will do them good.

See if Harksburton can have the others trained while we are gone. I'm not expecting any miracles but I simply want him to teach em simple technique via example. He can have Arkus-Jojo combo to attempt to translate if necessary.
He doesn't have to do it personally, I just want it done.

And one more thing. You will not stop moving tonight, the 'AA cannons' must have as much charge as possible just in case.
>>
No. 163022 ID: 6bcc72

>>163021
(Left this out)Remember, action without preparation is asking for failure.
>>
No. 163026 ID: 1ac39d

>>163021
and if in the middle of the night anyone trys to talk to you ignore them for a bit, if they get loud make it sound like you just woke up and set the golem on 'auto-pilot'
>>
No. 163129 ID: d1210a

>>163002
>>163017
>>163021
I scoop up the two weary scouts and begin dashing back to the Republic of Trepany, the gates barely swinging open in time for me to slip by. I bring the two scouts to the warehouse while several Trepanese citizens mill about in interest and concern at my passage. I order the two scouts to rest for the moment, and ask Jojo to do what he can to revitalize them, so that they may lead us to the outpost. I exit the tent and order the Premen to suit up and make ready to travel, and address Keddic as confusion spreads through the practicing militia as their sparring partners depart.

"Sorry about this chap, but it looks like I have an issue to handle. One of my Alchemics ran afoul of Barcho's men, so I need must head out. ...I don't suppose you would be interested in coming along?"

"I still need to see to the training of the militia if they are ever to be ready to eject Barcho from this land. I imagine this trip would take several days, there and back, and I can't leave their training alone, my good man, it would simply be improper!"

"Beggin yer pardons, Sirs, but..."
We both turn to look at Derkin, who addresses us with his full complement of weapons.
"I happen to have trained individuals in the fine art of sticking pointy things in people until they die, and avoiding getting such things stuck in oneself. I also fancy myself a decent arm at throwing weapons and their use.... maybe I could take over their training for a while?"

"Hoh-hoh, could work, could work.... Yes, and they could certainly benefit from a different training approach, new material.... yes, I would find that acceptable, if you are alright with leaving your man here to keep leading the militia in their training.... Ah, I would also like that apprentice of yours, what was his name... Arkus, that was it! Anyway, we have a few with magical inclinations themselves, and he could give them a push in the right direction. Do that, and I would be happy to step away from my work seeing to the improvement of the Republic of Trepany and assist you in raining down a most overwhelming fury upon that ruffian Barcho!"


What should I do, should I accept Keddic's offer and leave both Arkus and Derkin here to bring Keddic with me, or should I reject his offer?
[After decision is made travel north will begin]
>>
No. 163137 ID: 7524b0

>>163129
Accept!
>>
No. 163150 ID: 903f16

>>163129
Let's accept the offer. Arkus and Derkin don't seem suited to this mission anyway and it's better they stay safe here and contribute to the training of the militia.
>>
No. 163155 ID: 6bcc72

Heck, wasn't going to bring em along anyway (well maybe Derkin, but feh). Accept.
>>
No. 163181 ID: d1210a

rolled 10, 7 = 17

>>163137
>>163150
>>163155
"Done. Derkin, go fetch Arkus, You two shall be staying in Trepany."

"On it."

"Well Sir Harksburton, what do you need to travel?"

"Feh, I have my pipe and my fists, what more do I need?"

Within a short time we exit the town, the returned scouts once more energetic, though Jojo looks somewhat fatigued from having worked on them, and now rides behind Oggroth on his mount. The two scouts lead us north, in search of Ugrokk. The day fades to night after we have entered the woods north of Trepany, and eventually we set up a camp, Keddic spending some time regaling the Premen with stories of outlandish adventures. At first they seem confused by his babble in a tongue they have only a rudimentary grasp of, but soon are enthused simply by his antics in the storytelling process. The night ends in high spirits.

[DAY 67]

We begin march early after I snag a bite from the bronze plate Oggroth still has hanging from his mount as makeshift armor, and the Scouts make note that we are making good time, and should reach the battle sight later in the day.

Along our treks, we find.....
>>
No. 163189 ID: d1210a
File 127104615293.jpg - (658.35KB , 1200x713 , Random Encounter 07.jpg )
163189

rolled 10 = 10

>>163181
[7]

We stumble upon a strange sight, light playing strangely about the disconcertingly anthropomorphic tree before us. I can feel..... something..... coming from the tree, but I do not know what. As the wind whispers by, I have trouble telling just what causes the tree to sway so, it's branches, so like arms, swaying almost protectively about the small plant before it.


What should I do? Should I attempt investigation of some sort, or continue onwards?
>>
No. 163199 ID: 6bcc72

Choice a)Talk to it.
Choice b)Kill if with (Soul)fire.
>>
No. 163201 ID: 7524b0

>>163189
Investigate. Try talking to it first.
>>
No. 163205 ID: bf4d72

Greet it, but quickly. We are looking for Ugrokk who might be severally injured and this is just a distraction - as much as I want to talk to it, we can't waste too much time here...unless this is Ugrokk and we have the unusual ability for people to be trapped by world spirits when in distress.
>>
No. 163207 ID: 427807

>>163189
>>163199
lets go with trying to talk to it, and hold off on the big shit until after we find out what, if anything, this is
>>
No. 163322 ID: d1210a

rolled 19 = 19

>>163199
>>163201
>>163205
>>163207
Even with my concern for Ugrokk, my curiosity is piqued enough I decide to take a moment to investigate this finding. A glance to my side shows Keddic similarly enthralled, happily puffing away on his pipe, which he has reminded me on four occasions throughout our trip is named Old Bessie after a favored horse. I hail the apparition before us, this tree that seems to reach out and attend to a tiny plant before it, in the hope of finding sapience.

"Hello? Can you understand me?"

Something like a face on the tree turns my way, and it impression of a mouth moves. But no sound escapes, only a sighing wind that echoes down to us from the branches above, and the crude mockery of lips are too imprecise for any attempt to lipread. I appraise Jojo and Keddic each, who both seem similarly bemused. I decide to step closer, to inspect the plant it tends more closely. I note that it seems like an entwined spiral of upwardly thrust roots, a natural fractal terminating as the roots taper to nothingness.... yet there seems to be some sort of haze about the tip, that starts just as I lose sight of the ends of the roots. The roots shiver slightly as I gain proximity, before the arm-like protrusions from the attending tree encircle protectively about the growth, and I get the sense the nearby tree is trying to shelter it's ward. I still can make nothing of the sighing sounds coming from the tree branches, which I must assume is some attempt at communication.

"..Well, certainly an interesting find, but I don't know tree-speak, so... what say we continue on and worry about this later, yes?"

"..Yes, yes, you are right. Let us be off!"

I am finding it easier and easier to slip into my persona of mage Mordre, as I spend more time in the persona. I continue to periodically speak with Keddic and Jojo both on what we each thought of the strange encounter, but ultimately we end with nothing put pure conjecture, the event alien to all of us. We spend some time discussing this as we march along, and the sun starts to set as the woods start to thin again, and the Scouts note we are getting very close. Several of the Premen start to sniff the air, and note they smell blood, and the aftermath of battle. We continue onward to find...
>>
No. 163326 ID: d1210a

>>163181
>>163189
[10, 10: No Bonus]
>>163322
[19: >15, >18]

....A relatively small clearing amongst the now sparse trees, with at least two dozen corpses on the ground. Several of the carcasses have been ripped open and their innards feasted on, and I see a familiar tall shape, finding Ugrokk leaned up against a tree, slowly lowering the axe he was hefting once he sees us.

I see a deep wound in his side, where the metal of his armor was bent inward with such force it ruptured, and the leather beneath has been similarly pierced. Ugrokk's breathing sounds heavy as we approach, and he does not offer a report on his own, as he usually would.


What should I do?
>>
No. 163330 ID: e31d52

>>163326
Holy shit.

We need to get him some healing FAST. It looks like something large hit him in the side. Whatever it was, it was heavy enough to bend the metal and peirce his side.

Ask our smoking pal whether he knows of any local fauna that could pull this crap, and get to helping out best scout!
>>
No. 163338 ID: 7524b0

>>163326
I wonder if you can use Magnetomancy to move the metal away from the wound?

aaand only now do I realize we should have brought Jojo. At any rate, ask if anyone knows some first aid so we can stabilize him. Then we should bring him back to town. Possibly stopping by the tree if Ugrokk is feeling up to it.
>>
No. 163341 ID: 58ec1e

>>163338

we did bring jojo thankfully lets see how much metal is in the wound before we try to mess with it. also watchout for whoever did this, considering the wound its probaly somesort of magical supersolder
>>
No. 163349 ID: 2aaaf1

>>163330
>>163338
>>163341
HOLD YOUR HORSES PEOPLE. I'm not entirely sure /this/ is Ugrokk. Ask him a question first, we are damn close to enemy territory, and I'm pretty sure Ugrokk would approach us differently regardless of his wounds.
"How many warriors did you defeat to impress my Amaranthine eyes?" If the answer is anything but "four", be wary.
I may just be paranoid, but this seems like the perfect set up for Lord Barcho's forces to ambush us.
>>
No. 163350 ID: 427807

get jojo on the scene, and ask ugrokk what happened. vengeance must be paid against those who tried to hurt mighty ugrokk!
>>
No. 163352 ID: 445c48

Shit.

We just bought that armor, too.
>>
No. 163355 ID: 40d287

>>163349
This! Also, use Premen language just to be sure. However, approach anyway - we can take on any twisted shape shifter with our army. Also, look over the dead bodies - soul suck and try and use those new souls to gain some insight in what happened here. Check for any interesting weapons, armors, souls and dead bodies. Express happy amazement at Ugrokk at the utter badassery!
>>
No. 163356 ID: 40d287

>>163352
Which is a good fucking thing - look at what it did to that armor.
>>
No. 163372 ID: 7524b0

It has occurred to me that Ugrokk not saying anything may mean that enemies are nearby. Perhaps he does not want to alert them to his presence; we should remain silent as well.
>>
No. 163374 ID: 40d287

Eh, we can take 'em.
>>
No. 163403 ID: d1210a

>>163330
>>163338
>>163341
>>163349
>>163350
>>163355
I approach Ugrokk while hailing him in the Premen tongue, already casting my senses into the metal he wears in the hopes I can pull it free from the wound. I also add in a quick question to insure to myself that this truly is Ugrokk, I have dealt with enough instances of deceptive creatures to feel at least somewhat paranoid.

"Ugrokk, can you hear me? When we first met, how many fighters did you fell?"

"...F..four..."

It is Ugrokk then. I order Jojo to attend to him, only to find the withered form already drifting over, muttering about blood-loss and infection. The strange Premen mage asks me to do something about Ugrokk's armor, and I carefully pull back the warped metal about the wound, before Jojo begins his treatment. Oggroth tries not to look concerned, while the Premen that follow Ugrokk do not bother to disguise their unease at their leader's state. Keddic begins wandering about the battleground, inspecting the corpses and their weapons, while I move to attend to a more pressing concern: Collecting souls. Sadly, it would seem days have passed since the death of these fools, and out of more than two dozen lives lost, I find only scraps and fragments, none willful enough to persist for so long without degradation.

[+4 Souls (Human) Soul Total: 475]

Keddic makes his way to my side, several miniaturized cannons, complete with grips and trigger mechanisms tucked beneath his arm.

"Well, would you look at that, they had some rather interesting toys with them, didn't they? Oh-hoh, even a few of these would make a big difference in terms of what Trepany can do.... some thirty odd miniaturized cannons are to be had. The question is, how do we transport them? And how do they work? I see no fuse or.... ah yes, how is your Alchemic doing?"

I prompt Jojo to inform me of Ugrokk's condition, as the Premen in question seems relatively unresponsive.

"Ugrokk has lost much blood, infection risk high. no smell of waste, bowels not ruptured, but at least five days until back on feet, lost blood dangerous, take time to replenish. And if infection has set in, little can be done but hope. Will need to watch Ugrokk closely for now."

I turn to Keddic, still awaiting information on the status of Ugrokk, and inform him of the situation.

"Well, at least he's alive, and has a decent chance of living to fight another day. So, what now then?"

This leaves me with a dilemma. I have a relatively limited time frame before Verther's skin starts to degrade past the point of usefulness, and losing five days is significant. Nonetheless, Ugrokk is a valued asset, and his current condition demands a response from me, to show my wrath to Lord Barcho.


What should I do or plan?
>>
No. 163416 ID: e31d52

>>163403
We need a new scout. We aren't going to kill off our hero for a few days of speed - that's damn foolish. If need be, there are a lot of skins in the world, and we can let the skin we have go if it means being more firmly established. So ask our good friend if he has any exceptional scouts he can spare, so that we may plow forward on our plans while Ug heals.

Oh, and make sure to tell him he's been a damn fine soldier and you await his return with bated breath.
>>
No. 163426 ID: 58ec1e

>>163403

see if you can leave Ugrokk, jojo and a few of the others with kerric. Ugrokk and jojo to heal and the others to guard or help.

then head back to dropoff the mage skin and pick up some more premen. as formidable and lucky as our band is, theres only so much that can be done with twenty.

that village we helped fortify would make a good stageing point for our army.

also we should headback to check on things, just to make sure our tribe hasnt been haveing any trouble with that mage chief.

while were there we should find out more about that core beast/thing from our ghost mage and the premen shamen
>>
No. 163434 ID: 7524b0

>>163403
We can leave Ugrokk in the care of Trepany if we must leave early.

We can transport the hand-cannons via magnetomancy. That's quite simple. Speaking of salvage, can we eat any of their armor for extra Steel?

We need to find out what Ugrokk and his scouts learned about how this guy's base and troops are set up, and how many troops he has. I wager that we could stand up to his handcannon-using troops rather well with Magnetomancy on our side, so perhaps a solo ambush mission would work well if we can target a small enough camp.
>>
No. 163436 ID: 427807

We need to figure out how to get a good bit of salt from the people of Trepany, to make some sort of preservation receptacle for verther's body.
We need to continue our conversation with Keddic regarding help around the area, and recruit as many people who are willing to fight as we can. First, though, we should head back to Trepany to let Ugrokk rest. Then we should talk to Keddic, then assess our troops and decide who is going with us.
Oh yeah, don't forget to tell Ugrokk what a badass he is.
>>
No. 163437 ID: 40d287

How many days away is Mosmordre proper, anyway? If we really can't make it back maybe we could just brine and salt the skin. If worst comes to worst it might be easy to just run the distance there and back as quick as we can.

However, with the current events I'm gonna agree with >>163416 - Ugrokk is a fine warrior, our first scout, and a bro. We are gonna make sure he pulls through. Carefully help everyone back to the Republic of Trepany. If we can remember the location of that tree, I would take Arkus and Jojo out to look at it when we get a chance, or just look at it and try to speak to it as best we can.
Lets plan and scout with Sir Keddic and his men while Ugrokk heals up. That reminds me! Did Sir Keddic know anything about that tree? It seems like somethign he should know if it was so close to his lands.
>>
No. 163443 ID: 8c9d74

Hooray for guns. No sure if we have the liberty of telling him how to use it, out of character knowledge and all.
>>
No. 163448 ID: 8c9d74

>>163416
second
>>
No. 163457 ID: 716eb0

Well, TRANSPORTING the hand cannons is easy in any event. Get some metal from scattered armor and such, make a bowl shaped disk, pile them in and carry them back yourself. Apply magnetomancy as necessary.

Further examination into their function will be needed.
>>
No. 163480 ID: 445c48

Transportation ideas have already been stated, but ask for one for research purposes.

If you're extremely lucky, you or someone you eventually run into will be able to craft these. If not, hey you got a powerful weapon for a broski.
>>
No. 163547 ID: e31d52

Or we could fuse the cannons onto our own body and empower them with soulfire.
>>
No. 163565 ID: d1210a

>>163416
>>163434
>>163436
>>163448
>>163480
"Two thoughts occur to me, Sir Harksburton: First, that I am now in need of a temporary lead scout, Secondly, that I would like to see one of those cannons."

"These? Certainly, look away. And a spot of trouble for your lad there eh? Well, I'm sorry to say that I didn't bring any veterans with me to Trepany, and I really haven't had time to train them much in the fine and respectable art of scouting. So I can't help you with your first dilemma, at least not now. But please, look over the cannons as you will. I find it interesting they have worked stocks added to them like a normal musket, but a free-standing handle and trigger, but perhaps a more magically inclined inspection could learn more, eh?"

The ever long-winded Keddic hands me one of the salvaged cannons, and I carefully inspect it on my left hand's palm. I now note runes inscribed along the portable artilleries length, and note Empowerment and Fusion both present, along with several other runes. When I begin probing the gun with my Magnetomancy, seeking more knowledge on it's workings, I find a shaped shell, a snub-nosed, less-spiraled miniature of the Anti-Golem cannon round I carry in my left shoulder.

But even more interestingly, I feel a glimmer of magic woven into the weapon that feels vaguely familiar to the enchantments in my own shoulder artillery. I note a pronounced opening on the underside of the gun enveloped by a layer of tightly scripted runework, where the metal is dull yet untarnished. I sense some sort of.... fluidity to the metal within. A more thorough analysis confirms it, the metal inside the enclosure is pliable...though I wonder what it could be for...

I have our troops salvage every cannon present, and shortly some thirty four of these enchanted miniaturized cannons are being packed away as Jojo continue to work on Ugrokk, before finally declaring him well enough to be put on Oggroth's mount and moved. Several of the Premen, having taken after Derkin, have rooted through the dead bandit's belongs, and while some only come away with the odd short sword or two, one comes to me carrying a sealed cylinder, which when opened yields a rolled parchment. Keddic sees this exchange, and comes over to snatch it from the warrior's hand, and appraise it's contents. He shortly begins laughing.

"Well, this is rich! I have the patrol outline for 'Lord Barcho's Army', as well as their numbers, all thanks to this little piece of paper! Hm, four hundred men and one hundred of these special cannons, minus what was lost here..... ah, and two Lieutenants, it seems.... Oh.... Ah, you asked if we could attack Lord Barcho, and I turned you down before, yes?"

I see a truly vicious grin spread beneath his bristling beard as he continues.

"Well when we get back to town, I'd say we hash out a plan, and talk to the people of Trepany, and see just how many volunteers we can get, now that we know the scoundrels are vulnerable!"

I find no reason to object to his offer, and lead the march back to the Republic Of Trepany, to gain Ugrokk proper rest and care, and to prepare for our attack on Lord Barcho to the north, and the claiming of an Azelhaedran State military-magic research outpost. The journey is sadly beset with rain that persists into the night during our march south, but thankfully there is little wind and rain is not too torrential. We make camp after getting deeper in the forest and finding some trees to make shelters under, and Jojo continues to work on Ugrokk until he simply passes out from sheer exhaustion with Ugrokk still slumbering himself.

[DAY 68]

The rain terminates shortly before dawn, and march begins shortly after it. Jojo seems somewhat concerned about the rain effecting Ugrokk, as he has not yet been able to fully close the wound, but does not seem overly worried. Ugrokk awakens to mumble some words about metal clubs that spat lumps of iron with thunder and a roar, before subsiding back into oblivion. It would seem likely he was shot by one of the cannons then, but the fact it punched through his armor so, even after getting some made by Del Rogo, makes me believe these are potent weapons indeed. We march late into the night and are rewarded with a late arrival at Trepany.


What should I do? Should I get my men safely housed and Ugrokk seen to? Or should I talk about the situation with Keddic? Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 163568 ID: e31d52

These cannons are awesome.

We should eat them and make them a part of out body. Imagine our manipulator hand, hinged at the wrist to fold back and reveal ten of these set up in a battery, then raining death with a MAGICAL GATLING GUN POWERED BY THE DEAD.

Further, we should ask what sort of tactics our smoking freind prefers, and definitely get our forces and his to working together.

We should also ask Arkus for his thoughts on these guns, and see what his thoughts are. If our former theif pal is also available, we should ask him, too.
>>
No. 163576 ID: 7524b0

>>163565
With a weapon like that, it would make sense to put in a backup capability for close range combat. I believe the fluid metal is designed for that purpose. Perhaps, it thrusts out in a blade or spear shape when the runes are triggered?

Speak with Arkus about the strange tree guardian thing, and the new runes. Privately, of course.
>>
No. 163599 ID: 45be60

...eat some fluid metal. That is all.
>>
No. 163626 ID: 8c9d74

The first thing that comes to mind is that the runes turn the fluid metal into new bullets every time it fires. That is also why it feels familiar I would suppose, as it creates new rounds after firing as you do instead of carrying pre-prepared rounds.

It would be interesting if we could incorporate the runes on it into your own form in similar ways, but we need to identify the true meaning as to the runes on the bottom.
Speak to Arkus about it as well as the random encounter.
>>
No. 163636 ID: 2aaaf1

>>163565
>>163568
>>163576
>>163599
As cool as it would be to get extra guns on us, I think we're good on our offensive capabilities for the moment. However, I do want us to consume at least one of these guns. Can we direct the fluid metal towards all of our joints? Being more flexible in combat would sure help alot when dealing with fighters like Dulu.
>>
No. 163644 ID: e31d52

>>163636
>I think we're good on our offensive capabilities for the moment.

>implying there is ever enough dakka
>>
No. 163645 ID: a6ca77

>>163636
>>163599

Hmm...I was under the impression that the metal itself is not fluid....It's the runes around it that make it fluid...

If that's the case, eating the metal itself won't do much.

Instead, we should ask arkus to transfer the new runes on the gun into the experimental section on our chest.

Actually, on that note, do we still have that magnetic field eliminating rune on that experimental rune section? If we do, are we allowed to put more runes on there...0r is it a one rune space kinda deal?
>>
No. 163694 ID: 2aaaf1

>>163644
We have thirty four cannons in our possession now. Eating one is fine, but I'm not going to waste them by having Mordre eat them all now before finding out how they work, getting the other hundred from Barcho, and outfitting the fleshlings who would better benefit from these cannons.
>>
No. 163711 ID: 23bee4

Alright, everyone who wants to eat metal - lets devour armor and swords for now. We need to take all these guns cannons back to the Republic and have them worked on - we don't need to eat all of them, and having them poured over first will hopefully be able to copy runes first without the thing going into chaos-fist mode like the last time we ate a bunch of runes.
>>
No. 163727 ID: d1210a

>>163568
>>163576
>>163626
>>163636
>>163645
I catch Arkus' attention as he emerges with the rest of Trepany at our return, and call Jojo away from Ugrokk for a moment, to confer with them while Keddic gathers up the populace for a general address. I show them both the cannon I still retain possession of, as well as my suppositions about it's function, before asking them what they know. Jojo responds first, telling me that as of yet he still does not fully understand how such implements as cannons even work, the same as the rest of the Premen. I send him back to tending Ugrokk, considering his time more valuable there, while I await my 'apprentice's' response. Arkus takes a moment to jog off to the warehouse and returns shortly with one of the tomes from the Mosmordren ruins, reading while he responds.

"...Yeah.... yeah, that sounds like it is based around the principles seen in Soul Grave mortars.... weird that they have that, since the Azelhaedran State have never possessed a Soul Grave themselves, but there it is. And looking at the runes around the indentation on the underside of the barrel, coupled with it's similarities to the implements you have, I have to feel pretty confident it is some form of pseudo-mouth, and that metal is fed in to replenish expended ammunition. I ah... I couldn't really tell you more without having a chance to do some field tests with it, I can only get so far with simple observation."

I give Arkus permission to use the weapon as he sees fit in his quest to understand it's workings better, and make my way to central building in Trepany, where Keddic has been gathering the citizens. He has already made it partway through informing the Trepanese citizens of the situation, and is just now concluding his speech.

"-O, we now know that scoundrel Barcho's strengths and weaknesses, and with the Mage Mordre to aid us, I foresee a resounding victory on the horizon for Trepany!"

A cheer starts to run through the crowd, but more than a few are stifled by yawns, fatigue prolific in the audience due to the late hour. Derkin manages to simply appear beside me, and offers that the militia took to his lessons well enough, and that at least some of them aren't completely useless at knife throwing now. Keddic dismisses the gathered citizens with orders to rest well for tomorrow, and makes his way over to me, having picked up on my desire to meet with him. I begin speaking as he approaches, easily slipping into my persona.

"I have my apprentice running tests on the cannons,
He should have more in-depth findings for us soon.
Now, I recall you mentioning experience in military pursuits,
And I must admit being involved directly in combat is... new to me.
Perhaps you could offer your take on how we should handle the coming conflict?"[/code]
"Excellent, I'd rather have more conclusive knowledge on these implements before I start handing them out to the citizenry. As to how to deal with that upstart Barcho.... well, the two patrols, as near as I can figure, where both supposed to be watching the southern perimeter about the outpost, a bit north of where we actually found their bodies and your Alchemic--I hope he's doing all right, by the by, must be made of stern stuff if he outdid so many--So I would imagine they have to be worried about further aggression from the south. It is for this reason I suggest attacking from the North, even though it would mean going a bit further out of our way. I'd offer a more in-depth plan, but as is, the data salvaged, handy as it may be, is out of date, and not as specific as I would like. Still, you make do with what you have, isn't that right?"

"Indeed. Hm, attack from the North, you say?"

"That is my opinion on the matter, yes. Actually, I am curious, what is your take on this? Might be something I missed that we should account for... Ah, and how did the training go.... Derkin, was it?"

"Yeah, it's Derkin. Training went fine enough, worked a bit on footwork and keeping yer hands nimble, did a bit of knife throwing practice, that sort of thing, to add a bit o' variety to what they know. Not sure how much they learned in such a short time though..."

"Well, even a small step forward means you have advanced, isn't that right?"

"...I suppose."


What should I do? Should I keep discussing tactics with Keddic (And if so, what suggestions should I make)? Or should I retire for the night, so that Arkus may collect findings on the cannons, and our forces can rest? Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 163728 ID: 7524b0

Whatever way we attack, Mordre should be present whenever cannons are involved. Those weapons are far too deadly to flesh-based troops.
>>
No. 163729 ID: 427807

ask keddic about help from neighboring villages
>>
No. 163732 ID: e31d52

Oh, and when or if we 'retire' we should simply keep moving.

We never did find out if AA has an upper limit to its charge. :3
>>
No. 163737 ID: 23bee4

Well, if we could look at the scroll...It would be easier.

However, lets ask just who Lord Dunce is fighting and expecting to be attacked from - it would be a good idea to talk to them.
>>
No. 163738 ID: 2aaaf1

>>163727
>>163728
>>163729
"Sir Keddic, it would be within our best intrests to seek alliances with out neighbors. The villages of Trekel and Glenston are very willing to trade under the premise of Lord Barcho's fall. The problem is not that the people are not willing to defend what is theirs, it is that they are out numbered by bandits with vastly superior weapons. And that fact troubles me deeply, Keddic. All these research facilities were state-owned, how in gods name did bandits get ahold of them? Before taking the research facilities, these bandits were no better armed than any other outlaw, it makes no sense that they'd stand any chance of taking them by force. The armor my alchemical wore was crafted by none other than the blacksmith Del Roga, if these cannons did THAT to armor of his quality, I've no doubt in my mind they could be used to repel any number of bandits that attempted to seize control. Something is not right here, the state would not allow their most important and most dangerous magical secrets to fall into the hands of these fools willingly. Even if it were the worst case scenario and the entire governmental system was corrupt, they certainly wouldn't let bandits run rampant with such precious assets. All of the bandits have their own agenda, they are only united by greed. I accept that Lord Barcho was the mastermind of the destruction so far, but the Azelhaedran State is a big place, and there are dozens of these research sites, it is simply impossible that an lesser force of bandits each looking out for their own hides could capture and keep small clusters of these facilities. Not without resistance, and damn sure not without a swift and devastating response from the military. There is a third party at work here, who it is, I cannot say. The more I think about it, the less of a threat Barcho becomes. I do not underestimate the man, I've seen what happens when a man with ambition takes the lead of a bunch of miscreants such as the ones he commands now. I'm not worried about what these bandits will do, we can crush them easily. I'm worried about what they've done already."
>>
No. 163745 ID: 716eb0

These cannons may actually be miniaturized golems in their own right, and no simple armor is going to stop them. Any direct confrontation is going to be a slaughter. But we have their weapons, and we have seen how they dress. If they can appear to be one of the bandit patrols, the militia here could get much closer before the fighting starts, and possibly even get the element of surprise.

Perhaps we can stage a feint with the premen/Mordre forces, drawing them out to counter attack. Then the militia could come sweeping in from the flank, pretending to be bandit reinforcements. They will recieve little scrutiny, since everyone's attention will be on us, letting them get quite close before opening up on the bandits.
>>
No. 163829 ID: 5ae0bb

This situation... seems...off. Need to think more.

>>163732
In regards to the upper limit on the AA cannons, could we not feed it energy from the Nexus?
>>
No. 163977 ID: d1210a

>>163729
"Any chance of help from neighboring villages? Possibly Glenston or Trekel, both have numbers now..."

"Ah yes, I heard about Glenston getting free, but you say Trekel... ah yes, somewhere to the south if I recall. Well, either way, I don't think it would be much use, we are still not done outfitting the entirety of the militia, and I doubt either village has much in the way of proper gear. Lacking that, a fight against such stern stuff as these cannons... well, it would be a bloody slaughter. Rather not do that, even if it would mean less casualties for our own troops, few enough peasants survive around here as it is. And if they die, who is going to restore the lands to proper, bountiful production of food?"

>>163728
>>163732
>>163738
>>163745
>>163829
"True enough... and on that front, I have a suggestion: If we can, we should try to insure this golem is present, Wherever Barcho's cannoneers are concentrated the most. This metal form could likely shelter those behind the golem, When we are collectively faced with enemy artillery fire."

"Hm... could certainly be effective.... alright, if you don't mind, once we identify a mass of those rogues and their blasted hand cannons, I'd appreciate using your Soul Grave here as a vanguard and moving shield both, since you offered. Anything else?"

"Yes, actually. I noted a lack of formal attire, For those that follow Barcho, and I look to exploit that: Now that we have some of his cannons, I imagine the following: Garbing some of the militia in bandit-inclined accoutrements, And arming them with the cannons we pilfered. Such a force could be useful in a number of ways."

"Indeed it could. Hm, thirty three cannons, so thirty three militiamen... yes, it wouldn't be hard at all to give them at least somewhat passable disguises ready...."

"Ah, I'd like to nominate myself for leading the force posing as bandits. I've ah.. got experience dealing with criminal individuals, and a, familiarity with their mannerisms. That, and got at least some bit o' respect with them, on account of the training I gave them, all that."

"....And that would leave me free to lead the main militia force during this sortie... All right Derkin, the command is yours. Now, about your apprentice-"

"Before you continue, know this: My apprentice is strongly aversive to fighting, And prefers research and study over combat."

"...Is that so. You would not mind if I spoke to him prior to our venture on the subject, would you?"

"I see no reason to object. I would however like to voice another idea: My warriors could function on their own, Placing a third allied force on the field."

"That is quite useful to hear, and three forces, one potentially able to pass as the enemy, useful does not even begin to describe it! ....Well then, was there anything else that occurred to you?"

"Well actually, yes. As far as I can tell, these cannons, They are based off the magics and structure of Soul Graves, In particular the armaments placed in their shoulders. I still do not know the specifics of their function, But I feel confident in my hypothesis."


"....Interesting. Well, I have logistics to attend to, determining how many militia are ultimately coming, who is selected for the false bandit party.... Oh yes, Derkin, come with me, you'll need to be present for some of this... Ah, see you in the morning, Mordre, and try to make sure you and your troops are well rested."

Without further comment Keddic departs with Derkin in tow, and after I make sure my personal forces are resting soundly, I exit the Republic of Trepany and begin walking it's walls, marching an endless patrol throughout the night as I continue to build charge for the Amaranthine Annihilator, anticipating the coming conflict.

[DAY 69]

As dawn passes by I re-enter Trepany, to find a runner waiting for me, calling me to a gathering already formed at the center of the Republic. Keddic nods to me as I approach, and I count some two hundred militia, armed and armored, attentively listening to his speech, in addition to the thirty-three that follow Derkin, now all garbed as bandits (for Derkin this was not difficult to accomplish) and all bear hand-cannons, Derkin armed with the very one I asked Arkus to inspect. Speaking of which, I now see my 'apprentice' amongst the Militiamen attending to Keddic's words.

"Right, there you are Mordre old bean, wonderful timing! I just finish explaining our situation to all the Trepanese forces, and wouldn't you know that your apprentice found it in him to volunteer his aid in this venture, what a lad! Well, most of our battle plan is based around your suggestions, but here it is:"

-Allied forces number three total:
--MAIN (Keddic, Mordre, Arkus, 200 Militiamen)
--DISGUISED (Derkin, 33 Disguised Militiamen) [CANNONS]
--PREMEN (Oggroth, Jojo, 10 Premen H. Warriors, 10 Premen H. Scouts)

-All forces march north
-PREMEN forces continue straight north, attempting to attract attention, orders to harass and evade
-MAIN and DISGUISED forces circle about to northern side of enemy outpost.
-MAIN force attacks
-After MAIN force is engaged with Barcho's forces, DISGUISED force moves in.
-DISGUISED force will try to either infiltrate the outpost during the confusion, or assist our assault, whichever action is deemed most viable on the field.
-After southern bandit forces become aware of other pursuits, PREMEN forces are to switch to defensive fighting in an effort to ground southern forces.
-MAIN and DISGUISED forces are to breach the outpost's walls before southern forces are unable to be further delayed.


Any questions/suggested changes to the battle plan, or should we begin our march?
>>
No. 163979 ID: e31d52

We march.

Make certain that our cannons are prepped, eat a little extra metal so that you can optimize certain body parts like the joints and torso, and be prepared at all times to use magnetomancy.

In fact, a low-key version of the life radar fuction would be fantastic, especially if it's spread out wide.
>>
No. 163980 ID: 427807

seems like were relying a good deal on the premen, lets hope they can handle themselves, i dont want to see them being blown to pieces by these hand cannons.
other then that the plan seems peachy.
>>
No. 163982 ID: 5ae0bb

...So I'm guessing that we can't force energy into our eyes from the Nexus?
>>
No. 164018 ID: 7524b0

Sounds about right.
>>
No. 164215 ID: 8af6b8

I would like to ask Arkus just what was said to get him to join - and talk to Sir Keddic if he's really needed or if our apperentice can jounry with us instead.
>>
No. 164233 ID: 427807

>>164215
did you not read the plan? arkus IS going with us! duh!
>>
No. 164238 ID: 12b099

Oops. Well, lets ask why he's wanting to walk with us to war this time.
>>
No. 164440 ID: d1210a

>>163979
>>163980
>>164018
>>164238
I see no reason to change the plan offered, though I feel somewhat concerned about how much pressure may come to rest upon the Premen in this engagement. We must be swift if I am to be confident in their survival, or so goes my estimate. Nearly the entire remaining populace, mostly the old and the young, turn out to cheer on the leaving Trepanese Militia on it's first joint operation, my Premen's size making my smaller force loom as we march beside the militiamen. We exit the town and head north, and for a time all is high spirits and bravado, but as the monotony of the march to battle sets in words cease as feet continue to move. I address Arkus in curiousity, wondering how he was convinced to come.

"Actually, Keddic doesn't want me to fight. Once he found out about the fire I can make with the ruby staff and axe-by the way, Del Rogo's axe is ridiculously useful-, he said that the grass and shrubs that grow around here make thick smoke, and that I was to help him provide cover for the militia to approach, torching ground for covering smoke, all that.

The day wears on with Keddic periodically doing into marching songs, before we finally call camp as the sun finishes setting, and Keddic sets to badgering his forces into setting a 'proper' camp, while I leave my own followers to take care of themselves, and move to begin marching, to further build the Amaranthine Annihilator's charge. I continue my march about the camp long after only sentries are left awake.

[DAY 70]

The camp rises early, and after a meal and pulling down the camp, we march onward, further north. It is sometime after midday when Keddic calls a halt, and sends out some scouts, while I have the Premen do the same. Between our collective forces, more than a dozen individuals fan out in search of more current intel. It is late afternoon before they return, and we begin moving shortly thereafter, with the Premen already familiar with the plan through my earlier explanations. As Keddic leads the rest of us off to the north-west to circle about, I dimly hear combat joined..... and screams go out. None sound to have come from a Premen throat.

We continue through the trees, sometimes catching bare glances at a large structure, and I see the glint of light that suggests a river or stream is near the structure. Finally, as the sounds of the Premen's roaming battle with the bandits begins to fade, the sound of cannon-fire thus far lackluster considering their numbers, Keddic motions for us to form up, and informs us the castle is some twelve hundred feet beyond the tree-line, and that we are to prepare to charge. He sees that the roaming patrols have indeed been pulled away as we hoped, and that no one stands between us and the research outpost, save whatever defenders may be insider. Derkin and his disguised force work their way back to the south, in preparation for entering the battle. I see some two hundred sets of bows and arrows being tested, and assorted melee implements being tested. I tap my Magnetomancy, and start to become aware of the magnetic fields around me, most noticeable in many of the metals about. The idle chatter dies away. Keddic raises his arm with his sword stretched to the sky as if in supplication, about to order the charge.
We are ready.


What should I keep in mind as being of tantamount importance in the initial charge to approach the castle?
>>
No. 164447 ID: 7524b0

>>164440
Deflecting projectiles. Oh, and don't forget about that lightning we saw before.
>>
No. 164508 ID: bbdfae

>>164440
Your magnetomancy. Both deflecting projectiles and keeping close track of enemy movements by sensing their metal are invaluable during the opening stages of the battle.
>>
No. 164664 ID: e04ae7

Basically if you see hand cannons, jam them and take them away. Same for real cannons... and if you feel badass enough to give lightning an easier path away.....
>>
No. 164666 ID: d1210a

>>164447
>>164508
I direct my attention towards detecting and deflecting projectiles as they come, at the forefront of our charge as a moving shield for the militia behind me. As we emerge onto the relatively flat and bare land about the outpost, I finally get a good look at that which we assault.

A squat but surprisingly wide tower of some seven or eight floors juts forth from the earth, surrounded by a five sided wall with a smaller tower at each corner and a lone, massive gate visible, with some hint of other buildings housed within the outpost's walls. Further, outside the outpost there are a a scant few permanent structures, likely stables from the look, with a plethora of crudely constructed shacks erected-and about some of those buildings, I see some people playing dice, their weapons lax on the ground, and have a hope of avoiding detection during our charge. Sadly, at least some of Lord Barcho's followers have competency, and with six, seven hundred feet to go in our charge, one of the sentries on the outpost's walls finally turns from the southern battle's scene, and after getting over his shock at seeing an army abruptly appear, he lets out a piercing cry, and the shantytowns seem to boil with chaotic urgency, bandits eagerly rushing out of their makeshift housing.....and just as quickly coming to a halt as they see a Soul Grave at the front of the opposed army.

While the bandits outside the walls are given pause, those on the walls shout back orders and run about, giving us enough time to cover perhaps another seventy feet, before a short line of cannons are directed at our forces. I stop paying attention to the data from my sides and back, and push my magnetically inclined senses forward, reaching across the span to the cannons, gaining a sense of their position and orientation. I raise my left hand and ready the Soul Nexus within to provide me with the powers of Accelerator when the bombardment begins, and Arkus begins gathering magic into staff and axe both at Keddic's command. A shout bearing finality cracks forth from the outpost, and with it I sense some fifteen miniaturized cannon rounds hurtling towards assorted points in our line.

I create a strong field of attraction between my raised hand and the incoming enemy fire, and warp their trajectory further to bring the full bombardment into my grasp. As miniaturized cannon rounds hurtle into my hand, I trigger Accelerator as soon as contact is established, and as the shells rebound with their abruptly redirected kinetic force, I guide their path.... straight into the bandit shantytown, screams and blood flying as they come under unexpected fire. I see confusion spreading through the bandits, and take a moment to inspect my hand as we charge. While I can still flex my extremities, I note a distinct amount of warping done to my hand, and several points where the metal was partly bored through by the shots before I could redirect them. This is not a sustainable tactic, to direct the fire so forcefully, but if I don't, the wealth of targets behind me would make most methods based around repelling the shots similarly difficult.

Keddic notes the injuries to my hand, and orders Arkus to begin. With some muttered Words to focus the power he holds, Arkus blasts forth three sheets of short-lived fire, igniting large swathes of grass that quickly smolders and starts bellowing out thick clouds of smoke. I lose visual perception of our foes, but I can sense the cannons being held back in absence of discernible targets. I hear a defiant roar go out from the location of the shantytown, and more pounding feet can now be heard.

The screen of smoke before us is rapidly approaching, and I surmise we will likely be faced with further bombardment, as I feel others bearing the weapons have ascended the outpost's walls, and the possibility we must deal with the bandit forces outside the castle as well seems considerable. We are approximately five hundred feet from our destination. As of yet, no sign the patrols drawn to the south are yet returning. Further, no sign yet of Derkin and the disguised militia-members.


What should I do? How do I plan to deal with any further artillery fire, and what do I keep as high priorities after passing through the obscuring smoke?
>>
No. 164670 ID: abead8

>>164666
If we cant take their artillery fire, we take their artillery. Pull their weapons with our magnetomancy.
>>
No. 164671 ID: a6ca77

>>164666

Use your magnetomancy to focus on deflection of projectiles instead of repelling them. With the smoke screen the bandits will have no clue that they are missing their targets and will waste time while we close the range...
>>
No. 164673 ID: 2aaaf1

>>164666
When the next volley of cannon fire is launched, extend your magnetic field out, and see if you can't make the fired rounds attract each other. In theory, this should stop most of their momentum by hitting one another, but we may have to use further magnetomancy to aid the process. Fire one of our blades out into the smoke, use magnetomancy to guide it as far as you can to either the left or right side of the castle wall, rake it across at a low angle, this will hopefully disable a good number of the cannoneers on the wall. Fire the anti-golem shell at their main gate, aim it downwards a bit. If the gate is weak enough, I don't want the shell busting through and flying into the tower and smashing the crap out of it. I want the outpost preserved, and Barcho to be taken alive.
>>
No. 164677 ID: 23bee4

Suggestion: pull and twist the weapons out of the grip of the bandits and attempt to cause some giggling, cackling chaos inside the bandit camp what with pots and pans flying around and cracking everyone in the back of the head. If we can use our power to sense just how the Premen are doing, that would be awesome too.
>>
No. 164705 ID: 716eb0

We are probably still too far out to directly yank the hand cannons away from the bandits. I wonder if messing with the magnetic field between the weapons and their ammunition as it leaves the barrel would mess with the recoil enough to throw off their aim. I bet they would have a hard time figuring out what was going on anyway.
Failing that though, firing a metal round through the center of an oncoming volley of metal worked once before at providing magnetic leverage. And hey, you get to fire a round at the attackers too.



And in the long term, Mordre needs to learn about orbital trajectories as they pertain to redirecting ballistic weaponry. This catching bullets thing was silly.
>>
No. 164885 ID: 427807

Using blades from this distance is unfeasible.
Instead of magnetomancy, lets try something new.
Lets focus our awareness on any bullets coming towards us, and use the three tentacled black steel blades we have to deflect the shots. If needed, we could speed up our movements with magnetomancy.
We should charge through the smoke in front of the militia and Keddic, acting as a barrier, and hopefully a target of bullets, so as to reduce the number of dead militiamen.
>>
No. 165218 ID: d1210a

>>164670
>>164673
>>164705
>>164885
If the issue lies with actually having to deal with the bombardment directly, then I shall endeavor to cripple their ability to effectively fire upon us. I reach out to the dimly sensed cannons as I charge through the smoke, the Trepanese militia hot on my trail. I feel the hand cannons being leveled at me more than see them, and choose my moment to strike. As fingers tighten about triggers, I do what I can to skew the predicted trajectory of the bombardment with Magnetomancy. It isn't much, perhaps a centimeter of discrepancy for any given gun... but that's all it needs to be off by. In addition to altering their projected path, I take hold of what bits of the weapons' magnetic fields I can, and try to disrupt their harmonious function, producing greater recoil as the cannons function sub-optimally, the shells moving slightly slower than normal. Even so, they are still very much so lethal, and my efforts have done little to change this.

It is good that I am not done.

I unfurl the Sable Executioner, spreading it's bladed ribbons wide, as I direct my Magnetomancy towards the incoming projectiles. With their rapidly increasing proximity, I find it simple to create fields of attraction between the shells, and shortly all of them are colliding with each other projectile to form into a misshapen mass of cannon-fire. With this final impairment to the bombardment compounded by my earlier efforts, I am rewarded by the single mass of shells being slowed enough I can easily ensnare them within the tentacles of my right arm, and no harm comes to our forces from the first or second bombardment. I see uncertainty and fear blooming on several faces amongst Lord Barcho's forces, but one with a stiffer spine than the rest starts beating those about him into a semblance of order while bawling out orders. Shortly, the cannons have been re-slung in leather holsters, with a forest of bows and packed quivers becoming visible atop the wall as the artillery's replacement.

Even worse, now that we have cleared the smoke, I am able to verify that the bandits inhabiting the shantytown outside the outpost have indeed regained some measure of confidence, and more than a hundred bandits now sprint towards our forces, screaming promises of hate and pain coming from a force now less than two hundred feet from us. I see scores pulling small daggers and other baubles into tight grips, and with a flash of light all now carry devastating weapons, assorted poleaxes and viciously spiked flails now gripped in place of minuscule trinkets, heavy weapons capable of punching through the militia's armor with relative ease now visible throughout the approaching force. I can feel Arkus gathering up energy for another cycle of smoke-belching fire, but I doubt he will be ready for several more long seconds.

We are slightly over four hundred feet from the outpost gates, with the bandit forces charging us directly in between us and the gates.


What should I do? What should I prioritize as being most critical to be wary of right now?
>>
No. 165225 ID: e31d52

>>165218
We have that throwing thing, right? Use it to make the ball'o'cannonball your own weapon and hurl it at them.

Secondly, shoot your blade and arc it with magnetomancy into them, while you barrel into their forces with some RIP AND TEAR.
>>
No. 165241 ID: 427807

Where the fuck is Derkin!?

First, lets blade the coming bandit group. Then use the Anti-Golem launcher against the wall, where the cannon dudes are, but just a little below them. Then soulfire the remaining bandits on the ground, then reach out and cut up any surviving with the new tentacled sable executioner.
>>
No. 165270 ID: e04ae7

Accelerate the metal ball into the gate, possibly taking out any bandits in a straight line, fire the blades out into the fray at tightly packed locals and finally use the Sable Executioner like a blender/fan and charge straight into/through the enemy.
>>
No. 165302 ID: a6ca77

>>165270
>>165241

I vote for a combination of these ideas. I like the use of the anti golem round to make an entrance into the base, but I think we should try using the metal ball like the other guy said, first. Other than that, I think all the other ideas in these posts are good as long as we remember to not get into a drawn out conflict with the bandits on the ground. Our main goal should be to violently punch through to the fortress without taking too many casualties.
>>
No. 165319 ID: 7524b0

>>165218
MAGNETOMANCY their bigass weapons! We can't let those things come to bear against our troops!
>>
No. 165321 ID: 7524b0

Oh, also, just because they're using bows doesn't mean the ARROWS have no metal in them. We can use magnetomancy on the arrows as well to keep them from hitting our forces.
>>
No. 165323 ID: 1ac39d

have all troops link up so all metal they have is touch eachother and you, giving you a lot more metal on your side and set up a magnetic denial field, any metal not touching you is reflected.
>>
No. 165380 ID: 716eb0

>>165218

What is that I hear? No source of concealing smoke for several more seconds? Have you forgotten the abilities you were born with? which all soul graves posess? which use the very power that fuels you to set the world alight? Smolder some grass!
>>
No. 165382 ID: a4ff20

>>165380
The heck? Your going to use power fueled by the souls of the dammed to set grass on fire?!?! If you really want it you can tell Arkus again.
>>
No. 165412 ID: bbdfae

Don't we have mortars designed specifically for use against mass infantry in situations just like this one? Use those on the onrushing troops and save the magnetomancy for deflecting incoming ranged fire.
>>
No. 165447 ID: 716eb0

>>165382
Yes, that is exactly what I am suggesting. It wouldn't be the first time, and souls are about to be abundant again.
>>
No. 165454 ID: a6ca77

>>165380
>>165447

I'm not sure this is the best idea. While this will give us a smokescreen, we would have to be extremely careful that the fire does not interfere with the operations of our own militia. It's hard to charge forward while coughing your lungs out due to smoke...
>>
No. 165524 ID: d1210a

>>165225
>>165241
>>165270
>>165302
I transfer the clump of munitions to my left hand, and throw them at the outpost's gate, lending their flight swiftness through both Accelerator and Magnetomancy, while I fire my Blade launcher at the bandit forces still blocking out path to the gate in question. The shells spread as they hurtle onwards, and their collective impact rends the gate apart so badly it nearly ceases to exist. With the gate breached, I turn all of my focus to my blades, plotting swerving arcs and twisting paths for the blades, that let them stay within a reasonable distance of myself. At first, this proves devestating, the repetitious scything attacks by my whirling projectiles cutting gory chunks out of the bandit numbers, but on the fourth pass, someone manages to interpose their over-sized weapon betwixt himself and an encroaching blade and upon contact, my blade was repelled. Momentary shock left me inattentive enough my control lapses and the rebounding blade is buried in the earth, and my following fifth pass is disjointed, and another blade is knocked to the ground by these hardy armaments. I recall the remaining four blades still airborne, resetting them within my shoulder, as the two forces on the field grow ever closer, militia and bandit alike howling for blood.

>>165319
With the distance between our two forces so minor, I feel confident as I reach out to the magnetic fields about the over-sized weapons the bandits carry, and start repelling them forcefully, sometimes ripping them out of their bearer's hands, sometimes dragging them along, bowling over those in the way. This maneuver leaves the bandit front line in a ragged state, which Keddic seems keen on taking advantage of, as he roars a challenge while our two forces collide.

I start whipping the Sable Executioner about, it's fine teeth and subtle edge complimented by it's new-found flexibility and reach, allowing me to saw and slice a path straight through the bandits. I halt my advance shortly thereafter, partly to give the militia time to capitalize on their foe's beleaguered state and catch up, and partly because I see a rising cloud of arrows fly forth from the outpost's walls.

>>165323
"Keddic! Get the militia together tight, make sure metal touches!"

I make no further speech as I am already backpedaling to get myself in range, reaching out to the rapidly condensing mass of magnetic fields that represents the armor and gear of all the militia, and attuning it to my own form's field. As the two powers mesh, I feel the power it contains bloom, and it is easy to create an all-excluding field of general repulsion, an area denial system based around magnetism that shunts the incoming mass of arrows away from our troops.... and with the bandits already engaged with us, the end result is brutal. Arrows fired by their own comrades, redirected by a potent field of magnetism applied to their metal heads, brings their wrath down upon the bandits, piling on top of our brutal charge and the damage caused by my blade launcher, and our forces blow straight through them, cutting down any that stand in our way as we move towards the now open gates, Keddic and I both keeping a wary eye on the forces now behind us, but after the horrendous beating we gave them, they seem disinclined to pursue too viciously, their will broken.

Another batch of arrows is loosed as we near the gates, and I note that once we started moving again I lost control of the gestalt magnetic field of all our gear, and that I would need our forces to halt and restore contact to wield it's power. Some two hundred fifty feet before us, I spy several troops moving into position, some setting up with shields and spears.... and others un-slinging cannons from their backs, making an angry, bristling wall to ward us away from the interior of the castle.


What should I do?
>>
No. 165551 ID: 45be60

Hmm, if they are all bunched up like that, its actually sort of hard to decide, would whirling death blades or a wall of soulfire be more disheartening if applied to the center of their formation.
>>
No. 165556 ID: 7524b0

>>165524
An angry, bristling wall? They wouldn't happen to be touching their shields together would they...?

Attract the arrows to them. Also, can you pull out the handcannons from the holsters of the archers?
>>
No. 165633 ID: 7524b0

Some more shit I thought of:

You could deflect the arrows via your own body's magnetic field.

You could use the blade launcher discs to shield the militia from the arrows. Both physically and via their magnetic fields.

You should probably kill the archers. After their volley is done, you could use the blades for that, or grab some equipment off of fallen foes and launch it at them.
>>
No. 165657 ID: 71d1b4

>>165556
A splendid Idea.

Now I truly see why soul graves were so devastating, especially with a mage around to do the crap wee were doing.
>>
No. 165703 ID: 427807

Anti-golem cannon time! lets aim it at the dude who are aiming at blocking us, lets turn them into a pile of splat!
Then lets blade launcher the dudes on the walls.
badabing, badaboom!
>>
No. 165739 ID: cdee93

>>165703

Hmm...I don't think that using the cannon is a good idea right now. Those few guys in the doorway have no chance of stopping modre from coming in...so why waste a non renewable resource like the golem shot on them?
>>
No. 165756 ID: d1210a

>>165551
>>165556
>>165657
Before we get too much farther away from where we engaged and bypassed the bandit force now behind us, I take command of the two deflected blades embedded in the earth, and pull them free into the air, spinning as I rid them of their detritus before they are reclaimed. I note heavy warping where each one was bashed against something far more sturdy than it, and simply slip them part-way back into their slots, to worry about when I get the chance. I fire the functioning four blades in broad, sweeping arcs, curving their path to bring them into alignment with the rows of archers and cannoneers atop the walls. While I send this attack forth, I direct my additional source of magic, the Soul Nexus in my left hand, questing forth, feeling the condensed mass of metal before us occupying the blown-open gates. I feel shield touching mail, cannons against gauntlets, and I try to snare as many magnetic fields as I can, and simply attract them to one another, as strongly as I can.

Panic and confusion erupt nearly instantaneously amongst the broken gate guardians, as their bodies and armaments both entangle in a horrible mess, where cannoneers dare not fire, lest they hit an ally. Their pilfered metal armor, likely supplemented by the very outpost I aim to take, is now their bane, as with increased proximity I find it easy to manipulate, with it so tightly packed together. Above, I see the blades I fired cutting into the defenders above from both flanks, carving gory trails towards the middle. I spaced them as a parallel set of zig-zagging blades, and they year through the forces above with abandon.

As the blades come closer to crossing paths, I see the bandit who had been shouting orders pulling cannons from the hands of bandits on either side of himself as he leaps into the air, his body whirling about. I here two resounding booms intertwined as the blades meet his spinning form, and pass him by. Two blades are flung free, shells from the hand cannons lodged in each blade's teeth, and as I draw them back I classify them as significantly more warped than the previous two reclaimed blades. Thankfully, the final pair of blades seems to be functioning perfectly well as I slot them back into my shoulder. We have advanced to the final one hundred feet between us and the gate, when I spare a glance backwards.

The bandit forces from the shantytown seem to have regrouped and are pursuing us, more than one hundred feet behind us. Their numbers are reduced from our earlier assault, perhaps ninety still standing, but every shifting weapon seems to be in their hands, despite their reduced number. I suppose they salvaged the others from their fallen, but this also means I will have issues if I try to use my blade launcher on them. A glance forward shows the troops guarding the gate struggling to free themselves from their magnetized entanglement.... and making some progress. As they manage to remove contact between individual pieces, they lessen the strength of the attraction, and begin extricating themselves. As of yet, they still have not gotten the cannons retrained on us.


What should I do? And should I ask Arkus or Keddic (and through him, the militia) to do anything in particular?
>>
No. 165759 ID: 71d1b4

If you can reach the mass of bullets you shot into the gate eairler, I would suggest that you send them flying towards the Gate guards, spend some extra time on it to ensure at least some damage, then turn around and Soulfire.
Now we can use this great flame as a barricade and the smoke as a cover against the pursuing bandits.
After the smoke comes up, reach out and capture the fields of the approaching bandits' gear and bind them to each other and the ground. The ground effect should be like increased weight on them, making them waste energy on maintaining the charge.

Arkus and gang should still be going while you do this.
>>
No. 165824 ID: d1210a

>>165759
I reach past the soldiers massed together before us, to the hand cannon rounds still scattered about the insider of the wall, but find them too distant to move with enough force to make them dangerous, let alone lethal. But now that I am no longer splitting my magical attention, I apply both of my sources of magic to the fields of attraction, and what little order the guardians had yet restored is lost as they clump together ever-tighter. As I pour every bit of Will I have into this task again and again, I turn about while slowing down, breathing out the supernatural flames within my furnace not to claim lives.... but to deter our followers.

SOULFIRE

[-3 Souls. Souls Remaining: 472 Minimum: 12]

I inflame a narrow, long band of ground, and the hungry emerald conflagration quickly spreads, the smoke it kicks out now obscuring our defenders from our sight.... and with the lethality of the flames involved, delayed enough by having to circumnavigate it that they are no longer much of a concern. Turning about again as I race to catch up to the militiamen from my pause, I note that Arkus has gathered a considerable amount of power into both the ruby staff and the axe Del Rogo smithed, but he has made no move to use it yet. As we close the remaining fifty feet to the gates, I glance upwards towards the wall's top.... and find the lone survivor who damaged two of my blades to have vanished, along with every hand cannon atop the walls, though I can feel the dismembered corpses still bear all their other accoutrements forged of metal.

The mass of defenders, still help captive by my Magnetomancy, are easy pickings for the militia, dozens of blades plunged through exposed gaps in armor as the helpless defenders are slain. With their owners dead, I feel the metal I ensnared become more responsive to my whims, and hurl the corpses from our path... while claiming the twelve cannons that had been amongst their number, and attracting them to my grasp. I am determined to not let more of these valuable weapons slip from my grasp. I peer about intently as we enter the outpost's inner area, and find several squat stone buildings visible, with several people visible milling about, though none seem inclined to challenge you. Keddic orders the militia to begin sweeping the buildings in groups, while he appraises the tower and it's rune inscribed stone gates. As several bandits begin to pour from each of the five towers at the wall's joints, the bearded man, once more puffing away on his pipe absentmindedly orders the reserve force with him not engaged in sweeping the buildings to meet the new force, and considering the numbers advantage the militia have, I can grasp why he seems so unconcerned with their conflict. He does take a moment to take the cannons from my grasp and dole them out to some of the warriors near him while strapping three about his body, all while focused on the door before us. I spare a glance behind us to see the other bandit force has not managed to crest the Soulfire I employed, and realize Keddic has begun speaking to me.

"..Well, what do you think about this Mordre? I recognize some three forms of defensive runes on this blasted door, and the tower itself seems similarly insulated. I don't know how-"

Keddic stops talking as a lone bandit charges him, full of terror-fueled desperation. The blade draws no more than a single drop of blood which then grips the blade with supernatural force, as a lazy smile spreads across Keddic's face.

"Well, well. At least you have spunk, lad, I'll grant you that. Now.."

With an almost regretful gathering of power, Keddic smashes the bandit's body to paste, letting the blade drop to the ground as he returns to our conversation.... or tries to, before his eyes dart upward a scant moment before his body is flung aside, crashing against a nearby building.... a cannon round now embedded in the building, having deflected off Keddic's shoulder.... only after chewing a deep gouge into his flesh. Despite his battering, I see a smile that dwarfs the prior, something primal, almost psychopathic about his face.

"Hold that thought old bean, I seem to have found some real sport!"

I turn about to see Keddic racing towards a rooftop figure, hand-cannons slung all about his form, and as my senses reach him I note that I cannot feel any of the metal he carries, their existence obscured from my perceptions save sight. Another glance shows me at least one cannon present in each guard-tower's protective confines, and irregular booming shots now echo from all about, not just Keddic's growing fight with the gunman. The Militia seem to be fighting acceptably so far, but they are starting to suffer casualties, and as a relatively green force this could be a critical time for them.... or perhaps Keddic's training will see them through. Beyond that, the militia engaged in sweeping the houses seem to be performing admirably so far, mowing down the scattered resistance they face with limited losses. The main structure, the seven story, wide tower before me defies my ability to sense within it's confines, and the runes worked into both the gate and the tower at large are varied, thought I recognize the empower rune Arkus showed me in several places. I wonder about the state of the Premen that follow me.... as well as where Derkin has gone. As a final worry to deal with, I see movement through the broken gates about this outpost, and imagine the bandits outside have now begun to bypass the obstruction, making their way forward to re-engage.


I have many issues to deal with right now, what should I focus on, and how should I approach the issue?
WHAT DO?
>>
No. 165827 ID: e31d52

leave keddic to his fight and help out the worst off men.
>>
No. 165836 ID: 58ec1e

>>165824

have Arkus check the door, support the milita.
>>
No. 165918 ID: 427807

AA and anti golem cannon!!!
>>
No. 165919 ID: 2aaaf1

>>165824
>/MAGIC/ Defensive runes
Immortal Genocide PAUNCH
>>
No. 165963 ID: 445c48

Make some ghost soldiers with nearby souls.
>>
No. 165998 ID: 7524b0

Hey. Why don't we check on the Premen? They could probably use a hand right about now.
>>
No. 166117 ID: ae7fbe

[Well hers the new problem, in order to keep up the ruse, we are going to have to know as much about magic or more than our current companions]

Confer with Arkus about the runes on the door and see if he can't do anything about it. If not,[The IG consumes energy but does it interfere with runes?We will see.]time to impress everyone around. Place chaos hand on door and activate the IG, deactivate and then use a pristine soul to help you chaos/disintegrate/force yourself through the weakened door.
>>
No. 166131 ID: cdee93

>>165963

Voting this if we have the time.
>>
No. 166132 ID: bbdfae

>>166117
This situation hardly warrants the use of a pristine soul. We're not in significant danger as far as I can tell, and those loyal to us are not in dire straits. We have only a few of them and should save them for desperate moments.
>>
No. 166143 ID: 427807

>>166132
hes never said anything about using a pristine soul...
>>165963
lets do this to help out the militia, and then do this >>165998

>>166117
we cant abandon our troops in the middle of battle. as much as i hate it also, we must hope the premen can do their job by themselves.
>>
No. 166147 ID: 12b099

>>166143
I would think it's a good idea for us to try and use our magnetomancy to get a feel for how the Premen are doing. Other then that, yeah, lets 'quiz' Arkus on the runes of the door, and have him copy them down for later use...and if Arkus doesn't know what to do with the runes, Immortal Genocide or break through the door frame rather then the door.
>>
No. 166150 ID: 58ec1e

tell arkus to have a look at the door while we help the milita. when they look like they have everything under control head back to the door/gate and see if he learned anything useful
>>
No. 166154 ID: 445c48

>>166143
He did say to use a pristine soul.
>activate the IG, deactivate and then use a pristine soul to help you chaos/disintegrate/force yourself through the weakened door.

>then use a pristine soul

Bad idea, I'm going to say. Admittedly, it might result in a more stable/upgraded IG, like the pristine soul to our eyes did. But we should save them for Holy Shit Bad moments.
>>
No. 166183 ID: ae7fbe

In lieu of the soul-powered IG, we can use normal IG then super Ozmand Anti-everything cannon
>>
No. 166190 ID: 427807

>>166154
woops, don't i feel like a cat out of a barrel, now huh!

>>166183
lets try the IG thing, but im afraid that if we use anti-golem cannon on the door, the entire tower may break somehow. We want to use this site as a research post, lets try to minimize damage to it
>>
No. 166200 ID: ae7fbe

Just for kicks "OPEN SESAME!!!"
>>
No. 166707 ID: d1210a

>>165963
>>166131
I see souls by the dozens around this outpost's interior, and I trigger Immortal Genocide to pluck free those nearby souls for personal use. crackling, writhing strands of light connect the nearby souls to my hand, before all are reeled in, my gluttonous fist feasting without reservation. I feel a need for some nine souls from my own reserves, to supplement the nine masses of soul amalgamations that have formed, and give the price freely.

[-9 Souls. Souls Remaining: 463 Minimum 12]

Nine spectral forms of luminous, oozing fire, vaguely humanoid in their shaping, leap free from my hand, and move to my will. They here my concern for the total battlefield, and begin spreading throughout the militia, seeking knots of bandits.

>>165827
>>165836
Thoughts of how to stay within the confines of my cover while questioning Arkus, or perhaps assaulting this door with my full armaments flit across my mind, but ultimately my first thought it to preserving the lives of as many of the militia as possible. Trepany is likely to become a trading partner in the future, and it would not do to have their labor force unduly reduced. I charge towards the nearest guard tower, snaking out a tendril of Sable Executioner to neatly decapitate a cannoneer perched above while simply crushing another bandit to paste with my fist. With my aid the militia around me quickly start building momentum, and claim the tower and soon begin spreading along the walls as well as upon the ground. I see only a scant few cannoneers to any given tower, but all their eyes are being drawn to this, and the distraction costs their defenders, who suffer without their cover-fire. The soul soldiers I crafted seem to be spreading decisive militia victory wherever they go, carving through the bandit resistance. The remaining four towers lose precious ground as they react to the loss. I continue to fight alongside the militia on the ground for a short time longer before I glance about the battlefield.

Keddic seems to be enjoying his battle with the gunman, which seems to now be leading them from rooftop to rooftop, Keddic furiously pursuing a surprisingly evasive target that continues to connect shot after shot. Despite the bombardment, Keddic continues to close the distance, knocking aside what shots he can with his sword, the rest all but nullified by his ability, whatever it is he does with his blood. Some defensive combat magic I presume, Blood magic based.... but not, it feels different, though I could not say how. I snap out of my consideration as I note the gunman is now down to some half as many hand cannons as I noted before.... and that Keddic has suffered several injuries during this time.

The militia seem to be performing spectacularly, and with the soul soldiers spearheading their attacks, they maintain their crushing momentum in my absence. They wash over the bandits nearby, and I would not be surprised if soon everything bar the main tower itself became ours shortly.

The tower remains irritatingly impregnable to me, and I even see Arkus venting all the stored magic in staff and axe both in controlled, concentrated bolts, first to heat and then to freeze the stone of the door. In any normal situation, this would lead to shattered rock and an avenue to enter the tower by. But the runed doors stand implacably firm, registering no response to Arkus' attack. He turns back to watch the fight with one eye as he tries to pull free a book to reference, staff now in the crook of his elbow.

The most pressing news comes when I turn back to the broken gates in the wall, to see bandits armed with cannons pouring in.... with the Premen as hostages. I see Oggroth, still on his mount, his hands bound in the chains of his own weapon, with some five guns pointed as form, leading in the rest of the Premen, thankfully all accounted for. The group of bandits continues to grow as more pour into the inner area we occupy, and I now recognize many of the warriors from the bandit group I slowed with soulfire, now following new leadership. Hand cannons are readied and aimed at Premen heads as one of the bandits calls forth a simple edict:

"SURRENDER, IN THE NAME OF LORD BARCHO, IF YOU WISH YOUR MEN SPARED!"

I hear a rustle of movement from the central tower now behind me, like cloth being pulled and shifted. The first signs of life from the tower thus far.

But more pressingly, I recognize the voice commanding me to surrender.... as Derkin's. And I spot several of the disguised militia scattered throughout the bandit forces, who all present stony faces.

Derkin winks.


What should I do?
>>
No. 166742 ID: 7524b0

>>166707
Go along with it. Request that negotiations be started.

Meanwhile, attempt to get those hand cannons away from Keddick's opponent via magnetomancy. Assist him from a distance. Perhaps, you can slow him down a bit, enough for Keddick to catch and dispatch him.
>>
No. 166919 ID: 427807

we need to figure out a way to quickly free the premen while disarming or momentarily stunning the guards, excluding derkin and his group. something with magentomancy should do the trick.
once the premen are free, we need to motion to them and the guards to get the fuck out, while we AA barcho...IN THE FACE!
>>
No. 167082 ID: d1210a

>>166742
>>166919
Keeping the Premen safe is of paramount concern to me right now, and considering that many of the guns trained on them belong to neither Derkin or the disguised militiamen with him, I decide that I shall go along with this change in events. Further, Derkin's behavior leaves me inclined to believe him still in my service, so I do not second-guess myself as I command the militiamen to stand down, in absence of Sir Harksburton to command. He is still darting about the area as he engages the gunman, finally in melee range. I reach out in an attempt to take command of the gunman's metal accoutrements, but find myself still repulsed, the metal simply not there as far as my Magnetomancy is concerned. I can feel the tremendous sense of weight gathered about his sword as he prepares to kill- no, the degree of harm Keddic intends to bestow upon his foe far exceeds what 'kill' can properly define. Keddic's sword will not kill this foe, it will end their very existence, smite them from the face of the planet.

The gunman recognizes the threat hurtling towards him, and brandishes both the hand cannons he carries in a hurried attempt to intercept the blow before impact. Twin resounding cracks of thunder report the firing of the hand cannons, and two shells rocket forth to meet Keddic's incoming blade, the recoil hard enough the gunman is already hurtling away. The aged blade filled with potency chasing after the gunman simply.... disintegrates the shells that attempt to impede it's progress, heedlessly continuing forward in it's brutal arc. The blade soars towards the gunman- and is met by a a metal curtain, the braces of cannons the gunman still carried now held as makeshift shields. And as the cannons are cleaved in twain by Keddic's wrathful blow, a power that feels hauntingly, achingly similar to my own is terminally disrupted, jets of escaping magic now propelling the gunman the rest of the way out of Keddic's reach. The gunman was able to escape his own impending doom, a point that seems to give Keddic significant irritation. Derkin clears his throat and once more calls out, his voice carrying far more easily as the sounds of combat have largely died down save for Keddic and the gunman's duel.

"A-HEM! CEASE HOSTILITIES IMMEDIATELY IF YOU WISH YOUR HOSTAGES UNHARMED!"

Finally Keddic is distracted from his conflict, and takes a long four seconds to do a triple take at the changes wrought on the battlefield whilst he was engaged. He seems to come to a similar conclusion to me nevertheless, and shortly replaces his sword and raises his hands as he walks over to the huddle mass of militia about me.

"Hope you know your man well, Mordre."

Derkin puffs out his chest as he marches forward, and bawls out another raucously loud proclamation.

"HAAAAAAL-RIGHT, ATTACKERS SURRENDERED. Oy, you, you and you, go make sure Lord Barcho knows about thi-"

"There is no need, I attend to the situation at hand the same as you."

All turn as a voice issues forth from the squat tower behind us, and a bearded man with a thin beak of a nose dressed in ill-fitting finery pulls aside a curtain to peer out from a higher level of the tower. ...Strange, I did not recall seeing any windows or openings of any sort in the structure earlier. The man who I must assume is Lord Barcho continues speaking while the gunman dusts himself off and makes his way about, collecting discarded cannons.

"Well done, well done. I was starting to become somewhat concerned, but it seems you have the situation well in hand."

"Yesser, I figured they'd value their comrade's lives, seems I was right."

"Indeed.... And a Soul Grave amongst them, quite the find."

"Thankye kindly melord. So what do you want done about them?"

"First, find out who controls that golem, I-"

Keddic's rumbling, deep-bellied laugh cuts through Lord Barcho's speech, and into the silence he offers scornful words.

"You daft ruffians, you won't find Mordre no matter how hard you look! HAH, you've managed to get a mage able to remote control golems aggravated with your roguish ways!"

Lord Barcho, who had been turning away from the window and letting the curtain fall, sticks his head out once more, his curiosity clearly peaked. I see Derkin looking at me, clearly unwilling to speak right now. He has, however, managed to sidle back to Oggroth's side, and discreetly pantomimes someone breaking free of restraints as he inclines his head towards the Premen, and finishes with a vicious little smile. The discarded weapons of the militia have been piled high nearby, to the right of the bandit force Derkin, the disguised militia and the Premen are in.


What should I do or say?
>>
No. 167108 ID: 427807

"CCCHCHCHHCHCHCHCHAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRGE!"
then fire AA. into Barcho's face. oh yes.
>>
No. 167111 ID: bbdfae

>>167108
That may or may not actually dispose of Barcho. We need to somehow lure him out of his tower and thereby render him vulnerable before tipping our hand regarding Derkin.

Our best chance at doing this is probably to say something which implies that he needs to inspect the runes on the golem to understand how it works or to track us down. With any luck, as a mage he'll be tempted enough by the possibility of gaining such knowledge for himself that he will lose some of his caution.
>>
No. 167112 ID: a6ca77

>>167108

Hold your horses for a minute...I agree that AA to the face would be extremely effective, but it looks like this guy is a mage also...perhaps we should explore the possibility of getting another mage skin....

If it's too difficult of course we should just kill him and be done with it...While we want the skins, we also don't want to risk everything for them...
>>
No. 167162 ID: 445c48

First off, if you're next to Keddic, nudge him, and say "Subtle". Second off, do what other people say.
>>
No. 167173 ID: 12b099

Or...we could reach up, grab the head, and pull him bodily out...
>>
No. 167182 ID: 7524b0

"Yes, my associate is correct. You shall not find me. Perhaps we can negotiate for the release of my hostages? I could let you examine the runes and magics surrounding this golem."
>>
No. 167209 ID: 2aaaf1

>>167082
"So, you are the man I've heard so much about. A word then, Lord Barcho, there is a matter I would have us speak upon."

Incoming ham after the next update, just a fair warning.
>>
No. 167215 ID: 45be60

I am not sure if this is a *good* idea, but it is an idea nonetheless.
"Indeed, I can control many things. Watch now as I control even your own men! Ahahaha! See them turn on eachother! Ohohoh!"

And hey, those runes protecting the door? Don't we have an anti-magic powerfist to try out on it? Dispelpunch!
>>
No. 167352 ID: d1210a

>>167111
>>167112
>>167162
>>167182
>>167209
Before I address Barcho, I nudge Keddic at my side as lightly as I can, and murmur a short message to him, hoping he will grasp my meaning.

"Subtle"

I then elevate my voice to more audible levels, and address the curious gaze of Lord Barcho, wishing he was not at such an elevated window I cannot simply grab him. I grasp about in the hopes of finding something to say to draw him out of the tower and it's warded walls.

"My associate here is correct, I do control this golem remotely. ...Hmm, so you are the the one I've heard so much about, interesting. You strike me as the arcanely inclined, perhaps I can offer you.... Compensation to return my men to me, hmm?"

"After you have slain so many, and brought chaos unto my home?
...Well, it depends on what you can offer. So tell me, fellow mage;
Why should I return your troops to you? What do you have to offer?"

"My years of study have given me control of many things, This Soul Grave here, and the method to remotely control golems, Those are just one piece of knowledge I have to offer. Methods of dispelling magic, creating a gaze of death, all are possible, If we can come to an agreement about the return of my troops."

Lord Barcho considers my words for a moment before decisively nodding his head, and finally letting the curtain fall. As it drops into place, I watch it reshape itself into more of the smooth-featured stone of the tower walls. An interesting bit of magic, that. Some time later, the runed stone doors slowly swing ajar as a group of nine march out of the tower, Lord Barcho surrounded by better equipped and in general more alert looking bandits than those we have yet encountered, two cannons strapped to each one's back, with a long brace of oddly shaped knives running down each arm. Their armor gleams dully.... and is not sheltered from my Magnetomancy, interestingly enough. Barcho keeps a reasonable distance away, some hundred feet or so, with a small wall of his elite guards betwixt us as he speaks further.

"Tell me more about control, and what you know of it, and I might let your men live."

Lord Barcho himself feels... vague, indistinct. I can barely sense the iron in his blood, and I sense no metal baubles about his person, but he carries a slender, rune-etched staff with a head-sized pearl gleaming atop it, and his presumed guards seem inclined to give him space. ...And yet, I cannot help but think of Arkus as I appraise this Lord Barcho, self professed mage....

>>167215
And make a snap decision.
I hope Derkin and the others can pick up on it swiftly enough.

"Indeed, I can control many things, 'Lord Barcho'. Watch now as I control even your own men, Ah-HAH-HAH!"

Derkin at least seems to grasp my intent instantly, and swings both of his hand cannons (where did he get another one?) about to now face bandits with cannons still trained on the Premen. Before he can even pull either trigger, several of the disguised militia realize what is going on, and likewise begin targeting the bandits about the Premen. As Derkin pulls the trigger of one of his guns, I see Oggroth roaring in glee as more shots echo out, and he simply slips his hands free of the entwining chains and hefts his weapon, the other Premen similarly escaping their 'captivity' with alacrity the bandits were clearly not ready for. And with the rain of gunfire from within their own ranks scything through the majority of those holding hand cannons of their own and/or the morphic weapons, the bandits are having difficulty reacting, chaos sown in their ranks in the space of two sentences and their immediate repercussions. I continue speaking, playing up the ruse I have begun.

"Yes, see them dance to my whims, And turn on one another, Oh-HOH-HOH-HOH!"

[+2 HAM Points TOTAL HAM points: 20 NEXT REWARD: 25]

I see Keddic wearing a wide smirk on his face as he charges forth, chasing down the gunman he fought earlier despite the dozens of gouges scooped from his flesh, the blood not falling thanks to his particular form of combat magic, and ludicrous amounts of weight begin gathering in his body and weapon alike as he chases his prey. The two dart by the pile of confiscated militia weapons while havoc breaks out amongst the bandit force, and I decide to further exacerbate the situation. I reach out to the metal in their gear, and attract them to my body, letting them fall to the ground after their brief and jumbled flight right in the middle of the militia in the limited space about my body. A flurry of activity now breaks out amongst their numbers as they rush to re-equip themselves. I turn back to face Lord Barcho, still behind his wall of guards, still gaping at the chaos I have wrought. I have, from his perspective, stolen the loyalty of dozens of his troops with but a word, freed the Premen hostages, started a slaughter amongst his troops, and initiated the re-arming of the militia forces....

All in roughly five seconds.


What should I do? Are there any particular orders I want to issue to my allies?
>>
No. 167358 ID: 7524b0

>>167352
If Lord Barcho is surrounded on all sides by his guards, and they're vulnerable to Magnetomancy, then attract them all to eachother and CRUSH Barcho in the middle! That should keep his skin relatively intact, yes? If I misunderstood and they're all right in front of him... Clump them all together to one side of Barcho then launch your Anti-Golem Cannon at them to kill them all at once.

Do either of those while advancing towards them. If Lord Barcho is trapped, use your Darksteel Tentaclaws to carve him out of his iron prison and break his neck. If he's free, use our newfound SUPERSPEED ability to rush in to grab him. Use the Tentaclaws and Animus at the same time to deal with the elites.

Make sure that they can't shoot your troops, if possible.
>>
No. 167367 ID: 2aaaf1

>>167352
Now would be an excellent time to cut off lord barcho's retreat. Get between him and the entrance to the tower. Furthermore, relieve him of his guards, toss them over the walls or something. Then, get up right in his wrinkly old face, cause we're gonna explain his new situation REAL nice.

"Barcho, what I'm about to tell you should come across as no surprise. You, sir, are an IDIOT. You've terrorized the innocent, and plundered powerful magics that you can't even control. You claim to be a MAGE? You don't know magic, old man. You couldn't tell pyromancy from magnetomancy or MYFOOTUPYOURASSomancy. You are all so ignorant and foolhardy, it is truly a wonder you even got this far. Your colleagues have haphazardly summoned a CORE BEING, and YOU have somehow managed to do something even worse: you pissed me off. Now, here's how things are going to proceed; you have three choices, ready? First choice, I kill you right now and I paint this entire outpost red, afterwards I will make a necklace out of your butchered body and a stylish dyed rope noose. Second choice, you make yourself useful and do something good for once in your rotten life, help me undo the damage you've done to the people of this land and I won't kill you- but I will see you driven before those you wronged, and I will see you atone properly, even if it breaks my schedule. Or, you can do something REALLY stupid right now. Go ahead, take the life of one of my soldiers, I DARE you. Do you know what happens then? Option number three, I will put you and your men in shackles, and parade you through the villages you've decided to harass. Then, I will bring you before the prison of the core being, I will open it's cage and watch as it eats you alive, I will rip you from it's jaws and heal your wounds, I will sit atop the beast's back and use you like a carrot on a stick. Through your suffering, I will rid this state of every wiseass who thinks he can control what is not his. Your greed will be your undoing, Barcho. You have a choice to make, people are hurting and dying as we speak, do you desire to be one of them?"
>>
No. 167385 ID: 445c48

More ghosts!
>>
No. 167394 ID: 427807

>>167367
no.

>>167385
yes!!
and AA barcho in the face now!!
>>
No. 167408 ID: a6ca77

>>167385
Agreed. Useful buggers. Plus it's not like we won't have a large harvest of souls after this.
>>
No. 167412 ID: 5e0e33

Just to make sure no funny stuff happens. Cause the elite-bandits to repel each other and throw them away from you both.
Then activate the IG to stop Barch from using magic. He is a mage after all.
"Now Barcho, I have shown you all that which I have offered, well almost all," *Ruby eyes Glow*, "and as it seems I have freed my own men, maybe we can discuss other...compensation".
>>
No. 167415 ID: bbdfae

>>167352
Whatever we move to do, do it swiftly- use both our magic sources to boost speed so that we can take advantage of Barcho's confusion. We can probably move fast enough to capture him before he can even react.
>>
No. 167432 ID: 12b099

>>167358
- Or at least the 'Magnetomacy the Guards' bit to trap Barcho.
>>167412
>>167367
These, roughly in that order.

I would love to try and find a way to get the soul of the gunman that Sir Keddic Harksburton the 4th is chasing around, but I don't know if that's feasible - if we can't, we should at least play Yakety Sax for Sir Keddic.

If we have any Spirit Warriors left over, I don't think we need any more. If not, make more. Also, defend our warriors, while we make the self-made Lord-Mage piss himself.
>>
No. 167666 ID: d1210a

>>167385
>>167394
>>167408
I once more tap the tertiary powers of Immortal Genocide, writhing ropes of light latching onto freshly released spirits about the field and haul them in. The breakdown and reconstruction of the souls into proper amalgamations takes little time, and now that I know what I am looking for, I make note of it's need for some five souls faster than I did last time, gaining a rough sense of timing for this ability as five more spectral warriors leap from my hand, and begin coordinating with the nine others already on the field, bringing terror and death to the bandits wherever they go.

[-5 Souls. Souls Remaining: 458 Minimum 12]

>>167358
>>167367
>>167412
>>167415
Creating this fresh batch of short-lived spectral warriors bound to my will takes little time, but I nonetheless use the time wisely, a vicious attack plan forming in my thoughts. I reach out to the metal in their arms and armor, noting the rows of throwing knives they feel much the same as the expanding weapons some of the bandits are equipped with, and attract them towards each other, trying to steel away their stability. I see several midway to drawing darts from their braces, and one is already rapidly expanding into a heavy full metal javelin, but they are swept up in my manipulation of magnetism and clumped together much the same as the gate defenders were earlier. With their magnetic fields now blending together due to contact, I take hold of the now larger field and repulse them forcibly to the side, clearing my path to Lord Barcho. I let my hold on the guard's armor vanish as I turn my attention inward, taking control of my own magnetic fields while placing my hand to the ground as a brace for the Anti-Golem cannon. As the tremendous booming report of my cannon issues forth, the shell slams straight into the still-tangled mass of Barcho's guards. While several are either killed outright our terminally wounded by the attack, some could still be a threat. When Ozmand's spirit brings it's ghostly wrath down in the wake of the cannon fire, however, no survivors are to be found, blood and gore flowing freely from their now crushed forms.

I dig my hand into the earth to gain better traction, and take off at a dash, infusing my command of Magnetomancy into myself. The world blurs as I accelerate radically, racing towards the fleeing mage. Belying my bulk, I roar past the escaping fleshling and spin about, coming to a halt directly before the still open gates of the central tower, blocking Barcho's only hope of escape. The face that previously held arrogance and smug contempt now holds only confusion and a sense of lost, wandering terror. I lean in close as he skids to a halt and falls to his knees as fear claims his footing. I wrap my left fist about Barcho's form as the last of his men surrender, and a discontent Keddic makes his way through the spreading calm, disappointment clear on his face.

"Now Barcho, I have shown you all that which I offered... Well almost all,"
I let a small burst of scarlet Soulfire exude from my ruby eyes before I continue,
"And as it seems I have freed my own men as well. Maybe we can re-enter discussion, from a new vantage point, hmm? As my theory goes, I believe you to be a fraud, no true mage at all, And I would here what such a person could offer to spare their own life, Considering the mess you have made of the countryside. So tell me, 'Lord Barcho,' what is your life worth?".


After the stereotypical blubbering of a fleshling forced to face the issue of their own fragility and mortality, Barcho does indeed admit he is no true mage: Indeed, his descriptions would put him as less competent than Arkus, hardly worthy to lead so much. And that is when he makes his offer, his last ditch effort to find something to keep himself alive in this day that has become a nightmare for him. It seems that He has managed to decipher enough leftover notes and pieces of theorems that he can replicate the morphing weapons design principles that were developed here, and he offers this knowledge, which took him more than two years of exhaustive testing.


What do I say to Barcho's attempt to buy his life? What should I say or do?
>>
No. 167706 ID: e31d52

>>167666
Hmmph!

Kill him, eat his soul, and tell Arkus how these things work. We don't have time for this shit.
>>
No. 167717 ID: 7524b0

Hrm. Could be useful...

I haven't decided yet.
>>
No. 167819 ID: bbdfae

>>167666
Well, if he's not a mage, his skin is worthless to us anyway. That means the only resource to be gained from him is knowledge. Let's take it- if we can be confident of learning it from absorbing his soul, that would be effective; if not then leave him alive at least long enough to transfer the information of value.
>>
No. 167822 ID: a6ca77

>>167666
Let's not kill him quite yet...He has info on the current situation in this area. Other forces, etc. Let's find out what he knows at least...
>>
No. 167824 ID: 1ac39d

let him know right now that you will be watching him the whole time. if his information is accurate then he will have stayed our hand.
>>
No. 167828 ID: 2aaaf1

>>167666
"Luckily, you are worth more alive than dead. Your meager soul will not better my golem. Guide my men to your research- AH, no. You, are staying here my friend. I am not so daft as to allow you the safety of the runes that adorn this tower, you will verbally tell us where you have hidden the morphing research. I will have none of your nonsense, Barcho. As long as you are useful, you will live. After this research is complete, I'm leaving you at the mercy of Trekel, Glenston, and Trepany. You can beg them for your life all you want. Now then, we've work to do everyone, CHOP CHOP."
>>
No. 167846 ID: 7524b0

Well, if he's not truly a mage then don't kill him. Let's get his info.
>>
No. 167859 ID: 7524b0

Oh, and where did Keddic's prey go to? If he's not too far away we might still be able to nail him with AA.
>>
No. 167917 ID: 12b099

>>167859

We are not a kill thief. We would like the soul, so lets just look around the battlefeild and join in the running if everything looks under control.

And lets ask this false-mage about the core beings please?
>>
No. 167927 ID: 66bad5

Ask him where it is located and have Arkus fetch it. After conformation gather them all up to face Trepaneese justice.
>>
No. 167960 ID: 427807

>>167819
He's a mage, but a really weak mage. (less adept then arkus)
I think we should keep him alive, mainly to train as a better mage so we can harvest his skin for Kyorto. Think about it, collecting 5 make skins will takek a good bit of time longer, and rather then having to deal with another decaying body (in addition to Verther's), we should keep the skin alive, train it so kyorto can use it later on, and keep it from being destroyed by decay.
However, if it seems either like Barcho is too much of an idiot to learn, or too compelled to try and run away, we should just kill him.
>>
No. 168011 ID: 445c48

Eat his soul, and some souls that aren't your ghosts that are around you.
>>
No. 168037 ID: a6ca77

It seems like there is a lot of different opinions on whether to kill him or not...

Anyway, while we decide whether barcho lives/dies, make sure you mop up the rest of the bandit force and suck up as many souls that you can get before they all disappear. In particular, try and get the soul of the guy that was fighting kedric earlier.
>>
No. 168043 ID: d1210a

>>167819
>>167822
>>167824
>>167828
>>167846
>>167927
"You will tell my apprentice where everything is, Should you need something from within the tower, To explain the theories you have grasped, Then he will be sent to fetch it, not you. So... explain to me what you have learned."

While no formal issue of surrender was given by anyone on their side, the bandit forces, faced with giant warriors, magical treachery, the beatings we have given them and the capture of their leader finally breaks their spirit, and their bodies follow suit. The surviving bandits are now either throwing their arms to the ground in their own surrender, or attempting to flee. I see the gunman taking command of the swiftest to flee, and leading them in their retreat even as the militia barricades the broken gates, trapping the slower bandits within. With their escape now impossible, the last resisting bandits begin throwing down their weapons and surrendering as well, unwilling to continue. Keddic casts a surly, reproachful eye at the distant fleeing figure of the gunman and other bandits, before taking command of the militia, and leading them in accepting the bandit's surrender. I watch the soul soldiers I created dissipate, the magics holding them together unraveling in the absence of battle, before turning my attention back to my captive.

Barcho spends this time rather frantically rattling off descriptions to Arkus, who shortly departs to gather the requested goods. A multitude of nervous expressions traverse the bandit's face, and I detect him trying to squirm in my grip several times before Arkus returns, an armload of papers and scrolls under his arm, the militia still working to handle their first prisoners of war in a 'proper' manner, their conventional concerns resurfacing as the battle fever fades. I set Barcho down inside a ring of militia, armed and ready to fillet him should he flee, his papers within reach. After taking some time to nervously fidget and mutter to himself, Barcho explains what he has learned about the morphic weapon research that went on at this research outpost, prior to it's capture.

>>168011
While the former leader of these bandits speaks, I pace about the battlefield, claiming souls as the militia is busy securing captives and Barcho makes his bid to preserve his own life.

-Morphic weapon research was one of the two research pursuits of this facility, the other being magical applications in artillery.
-Weapons are treated with a form of liquid metal infused with World and Will magic to bestow a secondary form.
-The treatment process requires the use of Word magic, and Barcho has deciphered the original Words and their intended tonality, with carefully transcribed instructions on proper pronunciation.
-Weapons can either be given a second form that is simply a larger version of their normal shape, or given a completely different shape, and the changes in the Words used during treatment have been worked out for several weapons, all manners of spears and poleaxes, as well as a selection of assorted heavy, two handed weapons.
-A weapon's secondary form cannot have a total mass more than one hundred times as great as the normal state of the weapon, and only all metal weapons can be used.
-To treat a weapon, the amount of liquid metal used for treatment must have at least as much mass as the weapon being treated.
-The Research outpost has an enormous runed crucible within it, filled with already prepared liquid metal infused with magic for treatment. It currently holds approximately fifteen hundred gallons of prepared material.
-Thus far, Barcho has not been able to determine how the magically infused liquid metal is created.

Barcho continues his ramblings after admitting to not knowing much about the 'morphic fluids' as he terms them, beyond how to use them, and also makes note of what he has learned about the other field of research here, the fusion of magic and artillery.

-The 'Hand-Cannon' design was a large focus for the artillery research division, as some 108 functional hand-cannons were found within the facility. Some sixty others in assorted states of construction were also found, none currently operable.
-The cannons can grow their own ammo, at the rate of one per minute, given sufficient resources.
-To craft new ammo, any available metal is to be pressed against the indent observed on all hand-cannons, where the metal will adhere and be absorbed.
-The type of metal used as supplies has no impact on the composition of the shells, they always match the cannon itself.
-Any breach to a hand-cannon's structural integrity will destroy it's functionality, with the weapons being made durable to compensate for this.

>>167960
As Barcho runs out of things to say while pleading for his life, I consider a rather novel approach to my long term goal of gaining skins for Kyorto: If I were to take him with me and train him, I could give him the years of experience with World magic needed under my tutelage, possibly even find a way to expedite the rate at which his body becomes saturated with World magic, and only end his life once his death will grant me the final of five mage skins. Considering the difficulty I could face with getting five skins ready at the same time, given the relative rarity of mages, this option to mold Barcho into what I need shows promise. It is at this time I finish perusing the battlefield, the last bit of ambient souls now within my iron belly.

[+82 Souls (Human) Soul Total: 540]

But ultimately, I find I must make a decision, as all eyes have now turned to me, Barcho's attempts to preserve his life now of interest to the militia and their new prisoners alike, though I see such a plethora of expressions adorning faces I could not begin to guess at how either group feels about this.


What should I do, should I let Barcho live, or claim his life? And now that the battle seems to be over, what should we do?
>>
No. 168057 ID: 12b099

How many casualties do we have? What does Sir Keddic think? If Keddic needs to go back to The Republic of Trepany. The Core Being, we need to find out about that.

As a side note, I am rather worried about actually teaching such a simpering fool any real magic - he could rebel the fool. However, I do want to see this liquid metal - this might be good for us. Talk to Sir Keddic about what he want to do with these guns - I would like to eat maybe five of them.
>>
No. 168118 ID: e6debe

Indeed, I too feel it would be a mistake to teach him anything. Kyorto did say that the mage had to have used this magic for a good period of time and Barcho's attitude thus far strikes me as one belonging to a weakling that got drunk on power, a trait that never disappears.
It is best to end this and take his soul. My guess is that his willingness to share a moment ago will allow us to gain any information that he decided to keep from us. See if Keddic has any plans for him. If he does we can modify as necessary.
Also if we consume him and some guns we might find ways to improve the strength if our own armaments.

One more thing, 100xMODRE!!!!(Allow super sizing using the magic!!! Then we can take on that super huge Golem!!!!!!!!!Won't work on the eyes though...)
>>
No. 168125 ID: 7524b0

I know what this is.

This is the same magic that allows Soul Graves to repair and maintain themselves by eating metal.
>>
No. 168130 ID: 445c48

Eat the fucker. Can't risk empowering a guy like that, he'll probably back stab you [And by you I mean Arkus, our real magebro]
>>
No. 168131 ID: 445c48

Also, it's a bloody shame that we couldn't nail the fleeing gunman with AA and eat his soul, he seems like he'd be a boost.
>>
No. 168141 ID: d1210a

>>168118
[Not enough fluid for Mordre's body, too bad]
[Replacement OH YEAH use: Make dozens of full metal javelins, give treatment, store in primary mode on Mordre's body, eject, trigger their secondary mode, and fire them the same way Verther fired javelins earlier. With source a full-sized javelin, expanded version will be dozens of feet long, and have significant mass.]

[So yeah, no SUPERSIZED MORDRE, but how about MEDIEVAL MISSILES?]

[Feel free to come up with other ideas, as there are many applications for this limited resource.]


>>168057
None of the Premen seem to have died, their wariness of the cannons that brought down Ugrokk having served them well, and barring the cannons, they faced relatively little in terms of a threat. The militia suffered minimal casualties, having immensely benefited from my actions throughout the conflict. Only some thirty of their number are down, eleven of which are already dead, the others bearing varying wounds that keep them from mobility. I see grief on many faces, but Keddic is already there, forcibly drawing the mourners attention away from the loss by expounding on the immensity of their success. When he notes that Trepany can now claim to have won a war in a single skirmish their first time on the field, many faces smile and several let out laughs, the sorrow dissipating, at least for the moment. After he takes some time to get the Trepanese militia once more organized and handling their newly-obtained prisoners, I take a moment to speak with him while Barcho fearfully awaits my judgment.

"So tell me, what do you plan now? Perchance a venture back to Trepany? I'll admit to concern over my other Alchemic, Even if my healer stabilized him, And there is the matter of the Core Being..."

"I imagine so, yes, smashing success as this event was, the Republic cannot be denied so much of it's population without due cause. And beyond that, these ruffians we captured need to be put to work, restoring the husk of a village west of Trepany ...Tell you what, I'll send a messenger back with word on your fellow the moment we get back, and while you wait for word, perhaps you can get an inventory of this place's supplies, all that. Ah, which reminds me, I'll leave a detail of some three score militia here, to help you clear the fields of corpses, claim what is salvageable from their personages, all that. So, how does that sound to you?"

>>168057
>>168118
>>168130
"A moment, If you do not mind."

I reach out to Barcho, still close at hand, and wrap my hand lightly about his form. He has a moment to look confused before I snap his spine, and feast on his emerging soul. I comment to Keddic beside me in an effort to maintain my cover. I feel no flood of knowledge from the soul, only an infinitesimally small increase to my magical strength accompanies the meal, and a dim sense the fool knew nothing of his own supply logistics, just that others would bring him what he needed. I begin babbling in my attempt to appear the engrossed professor.

>>168125
"..Yes, as I thought, he did plan to deceive us, Blighter was only thinking of how to escape, useless.... Still, he was telling the truth about his findings, Oh, and interestingly enough, both the hand-cannons, And the morphic weapons seem based on none other than: The principles governing Soul Grave function! This is a rather happy coincidence if I do say so, And the chance to study both of these shall be rewarding! Why, if I took some time to look over this-"

"*A-hem*, Mordre, if you do not mind, there is much to be done, so, do you plan to stay here, and let me send word back while you work on an inventory, or do you want to come back and check on your man yourself? I'd rather know now so I can plan this properly, old chap."


What should I say? And if I plan to stay here, what should be worked on?
>>
No. 168193 ID: abead8

>>168141
Would we be able to somehow use it to augment our anti-golem cannon? Fire a round 100x larger than normal.
>>
No. 168194 ID: 2aaaf1

>>168141
If we can't have him grow, can we make him shrink? Smaller, faster, harder to hit Mordre would be awesome. Also, whatever we do plan on using the liquid metal for, designate a large amount that is to be left alone. We don't know how to make more of this stuff yet, so we need to preserve as much of it as we can, using only the smallest possible amount for our research.
>>
No. 168198 ID: 3add87

Hrrrrm...wonder if it'd be possible to compact the anti-golem rounds so several could be stacked into the cannon at a time and fired sequentially like one of the Metal Storm guns...
>>
No. 168203 ID: e6debe

>>168141
Aww...no super Mordre but Medieval scuds more than suffice, and I'm sure Oggroth wouldn't mind a super sized wrecking ball, that is as long as weight isn't affected, he's strong but probably not that strong.

"Oh..ah yes, yes go on then. Make sure that messenger arrives promptly"

Have a walk inside the tower.
>>
No. 168225 ID: a6ca77

I think the javelin idea is cool. It certainly gives us better options at range...but I want a small addition to it. Can we make it so that after the javelin hits a target, it suddenly grows barbs (on the javelin) inside their body?
>>
No. 168299 ID: ef30ff

mini cannons mounted on our forearms? maybe 4-5 smaller ones on one, (med range) and 1 larger cannon on other like sniper rifle (long range).
>>
No. 168521 ID: 427807

i cant believe you guys voted to kill barcho... idiots...

anyways, lets stay at this research post for the time being; research new armaments, have arkus study all the fucking books he can find, and start rebuilding that front gate. First thought, send the militia grunts to deal with the dead and all that.
>>
No. 168542 ID: 445c48

I doubt we can use any of these suggestions that are about altering our form, at least not without finding blueprints/training up Arkus a lot more.
>>
No. 168771 ID: d1210a

>>168203
>>168521
"Oh..ah, yes, yes go on then. I'll take stock here, make assessments, And while I do that, that messenger you'll send, You'll make sure they get here promptly, yes?"[

"Don't worry so much old bean, I'm sure your fellow is fine. Well then, I'll say my goodbyes now, once I get the militia moving, I won't want to stop them just to bid farewell. The battle was well fought, and your assistance brought victory to Trepany. I imagine you'll be setting up shop here, since we managed to take it with so little fuss, eh?"

"It is a start, and I hope to do much from here. Well then, I imagine I'll see you again at some point, But until then, fare well, Sir Harksburton."

"You as well, Mage Mordre."

As Keddic gets the militia and their hostages organized, Oggroth, Jojo and the other Premen approach me, and make mention they are concerned for Ugrokk, Jojo in particular saying he needs to resume Ugrokk's treatment immediately, if he is to assure that the warrior recovers properly. Oggroth says nothing, but backs up Jojo's request with an almost childish amount of trepidation, clearly fearful I will reject the request. Considering how vital the Premen were in the recent struggle, I elect to accept their request for leave, or at least, that is the term that comes to mind for what they request.... though I imagine this is due to my militaristic past and purpose both influencing my thoughts...

I grant them their leave, confident the sixty militia Keddic will be leaving with me can handle the work I'll need done. As I do, I order Derkin to walk the grounds, and find out what the buildings within and without these walls may hold, and what supplies are present. I send Arkus into the central tower, to perform an inventory, and appraise any documents or writings he finds, a task which he sets to with clear glee, eager to delve into the knowledge held within the thick stone structure. I wave to the departing party Keddic heads, the Premen tagging along. I turn to the sixty Militia obediently awaiting my orders, and command them to clear the field of corpses, and reclaim any and all salvageable goods carried by the deceased. It is a grisly task I set before them, and I see several recoil at the thought, but be it out of respect, fear, or whatever thoughts drive fleshling minds, they obey, and with a salute set to their task. As they depart, I take one more look about the area, but no matter where I look my curiosity drags my gaze and attention both back to the tower before me. I note the size of the stone gates as sufficient to allow me easy entrance, and pace forward, entering a massive, single hall.

In this hall, I find a heavy, stable looking staircase off to my right, and several bookcases, desks and benches to my right covered in piles of scattered paper, schematics and notes scrawled everywhere. But the focus of the room is the massive crucible with fiery ocher runes burning on it's ebony surface, my magnetomancy unable to even fathom the complex interwoven net of enchantments embedded in it's material. But I do sense it's contents, a dull, silvery mass of what looks to be steel that flows like water, but to my Magnetomancy-inclined senses, it feels like a well of possibility, a multitude of possible futures lending it a supernatural weight all it's own. I here footsteps going up the staircase, and assume Arkus has already moved on to the next floor.



What should I do? I could aid in clearing the fields of corpses, or I could see what can be done to repair the main gate, or I could investigate this tower further.... or should I do something else?

[Alternatively, I could do a time-skip, with everyone working on their tasks, until either the messenger from Trepany (presumably with the Premen in tow) show up, or until another even of your choosing]
>>
No. 168774 ID: e6debe

While Arkus does his stuff, you can help to clear the field of bodies and burn them. Then you can go back and study the books and enchantments yourself.

Votan for time skip until the messenger arrives.
>>
No. 168784 ID: 12b099

I really think we should go back before hand, because Ugrokk was awesome, and we should take care of our men.
>>
No. 168833 ID: 45be60

Fix the gate. Some of the bandits got away, and while it would be silly for them to come back, it would ALSO be silly to have the place fall because we didnt take the time to pick the door up again.
>>
No. 168835 ID: 427807

Did we ever soulsuck? if not, run outside and do so.
We should rebuild the front gate while we're outside, also.
>>
No. 168905 ID: f01e19

>>168835
We did soulsuck. Man, I cannot wait until we decide to use our AA. With all the movement we've been doing...the amount of charge in it should be epic...

On that note, is AA a one shot kinda deal...or can we shoot off half our charge, for example, and save the rest?
>>
No. 169153 ID: d1210a

>>168905
[Discharges all stored energy any time it is triggered at the moment, thought it is possible it may be able to modify it so that this is no longer the case]

>>168774
>>168833
>>168835
I make my way back out of the tower, leaving it's appraisal to Arkus, while I inspect the shattered remains of the gate. I find it completely un-salvageable, but I make note of the size and shape of the lumber involved, and set out to cut new pieces from the forest--which reminds me to apply Magnetomancy to my munitions, restoring the warped blades as I walk. I see the Trepanese militia already working diligently at clearing the field of the fallen, and call out to them as I pass, instructing them to pile the bodies, once deprived of salvageable goods, together some distance from the outpost, and they would not need to bury the corpses, instead I will incinerate them. While some seem a bit leery at the prospect of carrying the dead so far, the rest quickly silence their protests, adamantly assuring them this will be less effort. I leave them to their bickering, as those in favor of following my command seem to be the clear majority, though were they not Keddic's troops, I may have acted differently.

I take some time to carefully select healthy looking trees, and patiently align each pass with the blade launcher, until I am left with some surprisingly well-cut pieces of timber some few hours later. On my return, I observe Derkin nodding to me as he starts appraising the shacks clustered about the outside of the wall, and the militia have cleared a sizable portion of the area. After freeing the metal fastenings and joints from the prior gate, I use Magnetomancy to carefully punch the objects into the timber I hold fast exactly where they were before, and I find myself in possession of a completely repaired gate that differs from the old only in looking... fresher, the wood undried and recently cut. I place the wrecked pieces of the old gate upon a nearby pile of lumber, likely firewood from their shaping. Looking about, I realize there is a chimney coming from every house and guard tower in the outpost.... but none adorns the central tower, oddly enough.

The gate repaired without much issue, I move to help the militia in clearing the field, and with my aid they finish some time before nightfall, all the reclaimed goods safely within the walls, a pile of largely naked corpses present some distance away. I order the militia to divide themselves between Arkus and Derkin, and assist both in their tasks. Happy to be away from the smell of death, the militia readily comply, and are already en route when I turn back to the pile of dead. ....When I look at the fleshlings like this, the spark of life gone, I cannot help but see them as imperfect containers, lesser versions of my own form. Despite this complete confidence that they are inferior, I cannot help but feel them some sort of distant cousin, the same as I would think of a golem of stone or wood. I suppose to me, all fauna seem like golems forged of flesh.

...I end my pointless rumination as I reach for the fires bound within my core.

SOULFIRE

[-3 Souls. Souls Remaining: 537 Minimum: 12]

The corpses are enveloped in a sea of green conflagration, flames washing over their exposed forms with an almost palpable urgency. I turn to walk away, those that I trampled along my path burning behind me, thoughts of what to do next racing through my mind. As the outpost largely shuts down, only a few houses emanate light as Arkus, Derkin and the militiamen bunker down. I check in to see Arkus struggling to read in the dim firelight, before Derkin hands him a pair of candles, which the mage gratefully accepts. The rest of them are largely finding places to slump to the ground in exhaustion, and I leave them to their recuperation for the morrow. I spend the night pacing about the outpost, building charge for the Amaranthine Annihilator, awaiting the morning.

[DAY 71]

I return to the outpost as the sun rises, to find Derkin playing the foreman, dispensing orders to a stream of Militiamen as he walks, commenting that he shall have a complete inventory shortly. I enter the central tower, and am greeted with a much more muted type of bustle: militiamen nose-deep in books, perusing documents, all under Arkus' somewhat frantic supervision. He almost jumps as he sees me, and hurriedly starts speaking.

"Ah, yes, I'm going to need a great bit of time to document the full extent of the writings available here, but I can at least tell you what each floor is focused around, according to the construction logs, what's inside it, all that. Anyway, this is what I know so far:"

--The first floor is the Mutable Metals Division, where all the morphic fluid is stored, and all schematics/designs pertaining to it's use are stored.
--The second floor is the Arcane Artillery Division, where the hand-cannons were constructed,and several other combinations of magic and artillery were demoed, though only the hand-cannons reached production.
--The third floor is the Mutable Metals Division's subdivision, the Regenerating Reagents Subdivision. Thus far, no actual completed designs have been identified, only disproven or untested designs and theories.
--The fourth floor is the Recovered Runes Division, with most of it's research apparently geared towards developing the runes used on the hand-cannons.
--The fifth floor is a library and work-lab combined, divided into two sections: the Wordy Wiseman Division, focused around reinventing Word magic to retain usefulness at higher levels of magical skill, and the World Wizardry Division, which seems to be based around World magic and it's uses.
--The sixth floor is inaccessible, a glowing keyhole sparkling every time the door is tested.

I accept his initial findings and send him on his way to gaining a more complete sense of what texts are available here while I go back outside. I assist Derkin and the 40-odd militia members with him, and some time past noon Derkin comments he estimates our survey complete, and tells me what goods are stored in this outpost:

--Enough food to feed five thousand men for one day or one person for five thousand days of good eating.... two thirds of which will go bad in some three weeks, incapable of being stored for particularly long.
-Patches of land within the walls clearly used to grow food, but currently fallow, unattended to by the prior occupants.
--A functioning well that seems unlikely to dry anytime soon.
--collectively, a total of 1,700 marks from assorted nations (not including previously gained 140 Duran marks), much of it comprised of small coinage that add up to a mark's worth. Stockpiles were found inside several of the stone structures, likely the gains of months of robbery and pillaging.
--10 stone houses within the walls, each with two floors, two fireplaces, and room to fit at least fifty people comfortably.
--78 shacks and huts outside the walls, with a variable amounts of space. Estimated total space: enough for some five hundred people.
--162 hand-cannons (60 in incomplete states, 102 usable)
--90 salvageable suits of armor, metal
--35 salvageable sets of armor, leather
--Morphic Weapons:
---80 spike-javelins
---30 dagger-poleaxes (15 bardiche, 15 Halberd)
---15 hatchet-great axes
---5 hammer-war mauls
--12 wagons, no horses
--8 carts
--29 rolls of cloth, hemp canvas
--23 rolls of cloth, cotton

I listen to his report silently, but just as he finishes, three flares of blinding light surge forth from the southeast, but they fade before I can turn to see their source. I am left wanting for only a short while, as two new bolts of lightning flash down from the sky in the distance, starkly defined jagged lines that vanish the moment they appear. Considering the direction, I must assume this to be the work of the rebel-controlled outpost east of Trekel, though I know not who they might be fighting. The rest of the day is disrupted with intermittent flashes, the mark of a prolonged exchange, though with us this distant it has little immediate impact other than distraction. The rest of the day passes without much incident as goods are relocated to all be within the walls and neatly packed away.

[DAY 72]

Derkin and those assisting him, now free from their task, aid me in weeding and tilling the patches of land where food once grew, my Sable Executioner now serving as a makeshift plow during our efforts. Of the five fields, only two are cleared by the end of the day, with Arkus and the militia under him still diligently working their way through the writings within the central tower. I find none of the militia with me grumbling about having to work on the fields while the others read, most confessing to having ignorance on the matter of literacy, leaving this task their only option, one they do not begrudge. The day ends with Arkus telling me that he has learned that the fifth floor also contains books on the location of local leylines, within the World Wizardry section. Twilight comes with the lightning still falling.

[DAY 73]

Some time in the early pre-dawn morning, the lightning ceases, and no further sounds are heard. Once more I join the majority of the Trepanese militia in laboring on the fields, the work I did overnight as they slumbered sufficient we finish clearing the last of the five mini-fields within the walls. With a full population it would be impossible for this to suffice, but it will certainly help if I need not worry about fleshlings serving me here starving. Derkin managed to make his way to the central tower, explaining that as he is literate, his talents would be put to better use there, but did get a few of the literate farmers to come with him, and pick out some seeds from the total food stockpiles, and they return with a moderately sized pile, and just before the sun sets, the five mini-fields have all been finished being weeded, tilled, and seeded. As the day ends without much other incident, I spend the night giving the seeds their first watering, before then wandering about the grounds, pleased with the much more structured form the outpost exudes, much more in line with what I recall of Mosmordren military discipline.... though my memories are vague and imprecise, glimmers through a fogged mind of my time before sapience, so I wonder how accurate they are. I spend the rest of the night pondering the totality of my memories from pre-sapience, questioning their validity as the night wears on and I continue pacing.

[DAY 74]

As the day dawns I ask the militia to work on restoring the lodgings within the ten two-storied buildings they have been inhabiting, a task they set to with a much greater sense of purpose than than tilling the fields, eager to make their future nights of rest more comfortable. I am quick to note that new, larger beds should be made, and as they have already seen the Premen, they find no objection with my additional requirement. I take requests for cuts of wood for repairs or new furniture, and periodically leave to cut down another tree or two with my six blades. I find that successive passes allow me to cut fairly exact measurements, and the militia do not complain about what I provide them, so I must assume them sufficient to their needs. Several swathes of hemp canvas and cotton both are cut, shapes being snipped out and brought into the houses over and over. Once further requests for wood stop coming some time later, I peer through several of the windows, noting the thick glass with heavy metal bars composing the windows to be of solid make, and see dozens of stark, simple beds within each building being placed in line, some still being repaired, the dark old wood contrasting sharply with the new. A few larger beds are wholly made of new wood as well, and as I go about the buildings, I find the conditions similar in each, easily more than a hundred total repaired or newly made beds visible on the top floors alone. When I lean down to check, I find the first floors, bear the over-sized beds made for the Premen, and I count a full twenty three split between two of the ten houses, the rest still bearing beds still awaiting repair. The day ends with the militia exhausted but happy, eating well every day as they work through the more perishable foods with abandon, the prospect of a better night's sleep bringing them comfort. I find their nightly farewells as they go to sleep a good deal warmer than before, even if still full of the awe and respect I am growing accustomed to in the state when mages are concerned.

[DAY 75]

I begin to grow tired of eating the scraps of arms and armor deemed un-salvageable, Oggroth still gone with the bronze disk I usually eat from, and this thought continues to hound me till the sun rises. Arkus greets me as I re-enter the town, pleased the gate I crafted still works ably, telling me that he is getting close to completing his complete compendium of all the writings within the building, at least in terms of what each document or book's primary focus is, but that he will need another few days. He says this is a good thing, because it means there is a great deal of material to catalog, and he looks forward to finding time to read several tomes he's spotted. In particular, one on using World magic as a method to invert other magics intrigues him greatly, at which point he apologizes for rambling and dashes into the tower, it's door's still open to benefit from what the militia comment is a warm day. Once more work resumes on restoring the housing conditions to full strength, and I pass several hours cutting new sections of wood to finish repairing the beds on the first floors of the houses. The work is finished early, with some hours of light left, so I pull Derkin out of the central tower to lead some light sparring practice as a means of giving the militia a change of pace. Derkin has them work on their unarmed fighting, and runs rounds of drills that only seem to further invigorate the militia members. We are forced to light several torches to continue the sparring late into the night as several rivalries take the chance to surface, old grudges paid due, and slowly the sparring becomes an incredibly rowdy and violent party as it spills into the evening meal, yet another feast, and I realize the men are finally celebrating for having survived their first real fight some few days ago.

[DAY 76]

The day has only just dawned when I note familiar shapes to the south, and see the familiar shapes of the Premen returning, Jojo no longer the smallest of the group as someone I assume to be a Trepanese messenger runs along with them as they move to join me before I reach the gates. Upon their arrival, I see Ugrokk grinning at me from upon Oggroth's mount, much of his color back. A Premen beside the messenger nudges the man forward, urging him to speak first.

"..Ah, yes, Sir Keddic Harksburton sends his well wishes, that as you see your warrior is fine....
..Oh, he mentioned that we have got in contact with Glenston, and told them about Lord Barcho's end. End result, we are doing a healthy trade-
AH, way more important, the captive bandits? We put them to work rebuilding the burned out town between us, and after that we plan to have them work on restoring more fields. Soon we'll have crazy amounts of food. Let's see, what else, oh yeah, the first scout to Trekel from a while back returned just before I left, said the earthworks there were fine, and that Trekel is willing to trade, they mentioned having a bit of trouble with some refugees, Some real burly guy came by asking about the mage Mordre, Keddic said if you need them you can hold on to the militia members you have for a bit longer if necessary, and that if you want some permanent residents, several returning militia members expressed an interest in living at this outpost after seeing it.... what else... some kids claim to have seen some weird creature in the woods.... right, that one isn't news.... RIGHT, final thing:
We, the citizens of Trepany that is, decided that as the main reason this battle was a success, we want you to come up with a name for the town we're rebuilding.... that is, if you're willing?"

It is at this point I realize I still have not named the outpost I have claimed and spent the last several days laboring on.


What name should the town being rebuilt be given?
What name should my research outpost be given?
Lastly, now that the Premen are back, what should I do, and what should I have my followers do?
>>
No. 169171 ID: 445c48

Naming everything after yourself is cool and all, but gets old after the third Alexandria. I'm not creative enough to come up with a name, but I'm just throwing that out there. Ask the messenger if the kids offered any more of a specific description, just so we know if it's that one fucker that's been following us, or if it's some other fucker.
>>
No. 169174 ID: 7524b0

>>169153
Hey, you know that tree spirit thing we found? I wanna investigate it again. Then the weird creature in the woods, and finally let's go investigate the lightning.

Oh, also... we need to get that mage skin back to Mosmordre.

I don't have any ideas for names just yet. Maybe later.
>>
No. 169176 ID: 445c48

Also ask Ugrokk how he's doing. Also send some cash to both the new rebuilt city and Harksburton. Accept the offer of Residents. Maybe make an outer earthwall later to protect fields or goddamn I don't even know.

Yeah, we probably should send the skin to Kyorto so that it can be preserved.
>>
No. 169319 ID: 2aaaf1

>>169153
--The sixth floor is inaccessible, a glowing keyhole sparkling every time the door is tested.
Barcho's staff, what did we do with it?

Name for town being rebuilt: Hashbranch
Name for outpost: Mutually Organized Science and Magic Outpost Research and Development for Revitilization of future allied Empires- But seriously: We should let the people that are going to be living here rename it, we're simply using it as a base of operations, but our home lies elsewhere.
>>
No. 169349 ID: b08d07

I want to name this outpost Kyorto, in honour of one of the most badass mages we know.
As for the town, no idea. Something speaking to how they have arisen from the ashes of their fallen city, Phoenix?

We should have a huge feast with the Premen in it so tahrt they can both celebrate victory and Ugrokk's recovery(don't want to play favorites though so don't mention that part) and then send back some of your better Premen (2 from U-Team, 2 from O-Team) back with Verther's skin while we go and investigate that tree if we can find it again.
After that find a place in the forest alone and start bellowing out the dirge, if that thing likes our singing so much, let it come. We will get answers.
>>
No. 169483 ID: 448554

Now that we have our followers...we should have them scout around this outpost. If we're going to be using this area as a base to conquer more land...I want to know what direction our enemies lie.

I think having people settle here and work the fields for mostly their own profit is a good idea...It's not like the premen are well suited for that type of work.

Get the messenger to send a message to Trekel and have some of the refugees come to the outpost to live and work. That should ease the burden of having too many refugees.

Also, can we get like a countdown timer after each day passes to let us know approximately how long we have left until the mage skin deteriorates? It's looking unlikely that we will be able to get all 5 skins within this month...So hopefully when we have some premen/time to spare....we'll send back the skins we do have and hope kyorto has some idea of how to preserve them...

Also, dude, our bud arkus is going to be a kickass, full on, mage soon...considering all this knowledge he's been reading lately. All, I can say to that is...Awesome!
>>
No. 169486 ID: 58ec1e

have a look at the strange tree, then see if you can find the creatureand warn keddik about it. then go to Trekel and see if you can recruit some of the refuges, we will get more if we go ourselvs than if we send a messager. after all this a quick trip back to the mountain to pick up a few more premen and check how things are going would be a good idea
>>
No. 169487 ID: ab04d4

Name it something in honor of Ugrokk.
>>
No. 169539 ID: 12b099

>>169153
>>Big Burly refugees is asking about Mordre and making trouble.
>>DUUUUUULUUUUUU!
Yeah, we're gonna deal with this off the bat. Lets go down to Trekel looking for a soul to steal.

And a few other suggestions before we leave:
- Send the four fastest Premen (2 from U-Team, 2 from O-Team) back with Verther's skin to give to Kyorto. Continue on to Mordreden once Kyorto has her skin and check up on the Village. Just a brief over view of what's happened and if Lorgk, Delro, or Mingsk needs any help. If no assistance is needed, get one builders and one mage and come back - mostly to expand the knowledge base of the Premen so they can fortify Mordreden and increase the cultural memory of the place. I would also suggest skinning and curing Lord Barcho's skin, just in case it would count, unless we already burnt it.
- Have Arkus look into the nature of this creature. Have someone attempt to use Lord Barcho's staff and other personal effects on the fifth floor door, and study that if we can get in. Have Arkus study that tree spirit and the nature of such things - if their is a language we can use to speak with it.

I can't think of anything else, but we need to get down to Trekel ASAP.
>>
No. 169616 ID: 2aaaf1

Hey, remember the first two heroic souls we consumed(Thomro and Merrack)? They were preserved in crystals, can we start doing that? Although eating all the heroic souls we come across will make us very powerful, we might wanna start trapping the ones we don't necessarily need right now, so we can start empowering our allied soul graves.
>>
No. 169677 ID: d1210a
File 127215266987.jpg - (925.61KB , 1400x910 , Wood Creature and Outcropping.jpg )
169677

>>169171
>>169174
>>169176
>>169319
>>169349
>>169483
>>169486
>>169487
>>169539
"...Yes, I would be happy to offer a name: Would 'Hashbranch' suffice for the future town?"

"Right, Hashbranch, got it."

I begin walking towards the gates once more, and the rest of the group follows, the messenger included.

"Oh yes, and welcome to Kyogrock Arcanoworks, ...Granted, we are outside it's walls now, But I'd still consider this part of the arcanoworks. Anyway, I heard you mention children spotting a 'creature,' Elaborate on this, what specifically did the children see?"

"..Ah, let's see, they kept going on about it being some great, hulking brute of a beast, and that it had 'funny parts' all over, whatever that means.... oh, and that something was falling from it's body, the kids say like it was undressing, but I imagine that if this thing is real, it might be shedding... speaking of which, do you know something about this? Should we be concerned?"

"Well, what you described sounds like a creature, One I have run into before on several occasions. It's nature still eludes me, and it's behavior is erratic... Still, the creature can be a very real threat, make no mistake, So do let Keddic and the rest of Trepany know to be wary?"

"I'll bring the message back. Is there anything else?"

"Yes, I'd like to retain the militia here as offered, As well as put in a request for permanent residents. Also, I'd like to have some of those refugees brought here as well, Any willing to settle here at Kyogrock Arcanoworks."

We reach the already open gates, and I spy Derkin before he enters the central tower, and beckon to him. As he nears, I tell him to bring forth some 100 marks worth of coinage claimed during the claiming of this place, a task which he completes before the Premen have stopped gawking at the change the arcanoworks have seen since they last were here.

"And before I forget, here is a contribution, To the expeditious construction of Hashbranch."

I hand the bag Derkin covertly slips me to the messenger, who I must assume believes I drew the pouch out of thin air, a look of pure amazement on his face.

[-100 marks, total remaining 1,740]

"I... yes, I'll bring this and the message it comes under to Trepany. Okay, warning about creature, Hashbranch, holding onto militia, need residents, refugee residents, funds for Hashbranch.... is there anything else?"

"Yes, a matter of curiosity: That burly man asking after me, The one you mentioned earlier: Was his head only adorned with hair on it's top, tied in a tail? And beyond being burly, Would you say significantly larger than normal?"

"...Yeah, actually, that sounds about right. Do you know him?"

"I have met him before. His name is Dulu, And I would not advise getting involved, He is a dangerous one in his own right, But beyond that, I have little to offer, Save advice to stay clear of him."

"....Okay. So, is that everything?"

"I believe so."

"Right then. I'd love to stay if I could, but since some of your comments concern the safety of the other villagers.... yeah, well, I'm heading back straightaway, so I'll make my farewells now, mage Mordre. I hope you settle in well to.... Kyogrock Arcanoworks, and that things go smoothly."

Without further comment, the messenger departs, jogging off to the south. I consider the many things I have learned, but first I must assure myself the smile adorning Ugrokk's face is not simply a facade. But when I ask after his health, Jojo is adamant that while he is somewhat mobile now, he'll need at least another two days to recover fully, and that battle would be a death sentence right now, much of the healing still incomplete. Ugrokk feels content to object to Jojo's assessment.

"Missed one fight already, do not want to miss more!"

"Death will claim Ugrokk, even against a lesser foe, until healed. Is that what is desired?"

"....."

"Then be quiet."

At this point the whole of the militia has turned out to observe the newcomers, and I order those not helping Arkus work through texts to do some more sparring, this time against the returned Premen. The matches start off somewhat slowly, as the militia do not seem to like the numbers ratio they are faced with, but after Derkin badgers them enough, they take courage from their greater numbers, and attack. The Premen handle themselves ably, and by mealtime no one has managed to get injured, and the militia seem far less apprehensive. When Arkus and the rest of the militia file out of the tower to grab a meal, they are quickly pressed into staying. The garbled words of the common tongue the Premen have yet learned, coupled with their clear efforts to avoid causing injury in practice mean that by the time it ends, the tension I observed earlier is gone. The meal, once again a feast, is given vitality by the zeal the Premen attack their food with, Oggroth in particular inspiring awe by eating whole chickens without complaint. I encourage the meal to degenerate into general festivities, and the cheer I saw earlier is magnified a hundredfold as people celebrate victory, being alive, their friend's recovery, all of their personal victories lead to a night where not a one goes to sleep without a feeling of contentment.

...And after Oggroth is asleep, I happily feast on part of the bronze disk still hanging from his mount.

[DAY 77]

The morning begins with work resuming in the aftermath of last night's celebration. Before most have waken, I ask Arkus if he has yet seen any mention of a being like the tree found earlier, or some means to communicate with it, to which he responds he may have seen a book relevant to my line of inquiry. Before he enters the tower, I ask if he has yet used any of Barcho's belongings, the staff in particular, in an attempt to open the locked door. The Unicode stare he fixes me with is all the answer I need.

>>169616
"Well, what about that crystal that encapsulated souls in the ruins? Their forms seemed well preserved despite the passage of years, Perhaps the same could be done to a mage's skin? There must be some way to replicate the act, To prevent the destruction of-"

I stop speaking as Arkus cradles his head in his hands, a look of shock racing over his features, before he runs off. A short while later he returns somewhat winded, clutching two books.... as well as a limp, wrapped object. He unwraps the parcel to reveal Verther's skin, now a deflated sack, the rest of his corpse already having rotted away, but I see decay starting to reach towards the skin itself, and know it will not last that much longer. He then plants his ruby staff in the ground, carefully positioning it so that the stone is directly between my form and Verther's skin. Next, he starts charging World magic into both the staff and axe alike, building up a substantial reservoir of power. He nods after a time, and starts backing away, the axe extended towards the staff, still firmly rooted, and I feel the power he placed in both sharing some form of connection. Once he has moved a reasonable distance away, he finally speaks.

"Use Soulfire, and aim it at the ruby!"

Unwilling to leave this grisly trophy in the open for too long and finding the conviction in Arkus' voice worthy of my trust, I exhale a gout of fire at the ruby.

SOULFIRE

[-3 Souls. Souls Remaining: 534 Minimum: 12]

...And as the fire hits the gem, it changes.

Chaotically writhing and meandering flames become orderly strands of crystal, frost chilling the air about them. The crystal strands envelope Verther's skin, and instead of finding a smoking pit of fire the end result of using Soulfire, I find Verther's skin now encapsulated in the very same crystal that held Thomro and Merrack, some months ago at the ruins.

"HAH, I KNEW IT, I KNEW IT! That's how those bodies were put in crystal, someone just used World magic in a repository as a focus to invert Soulfire's chaos and destruction based powers into orderly preservation. ...Ah, and this is the book that makes mention of anthropomorphic features of the environment, sounds like something related to leylines. I can't really say more without seeing the entity myself, the one you ran into while I was at Trepany.... speaking of which, a couple of them weren't half bad at picking up magic, when I was tutoring. But anyway, I'd be willing to bet that skin is going to be safely preserved for as long as it is in that crystal."

I thank Arkus for his support, and praise his insightful thoughts on the matter, before I find the four fittest Premen, two from each group, Oggroth and Ugrokk's both, and give them new orders: They are to bring this crystal-encased skin to Kyorto, and thereafter return to Mordreden to appraise them of our situation, make sure the village is secure, and to bring back a shaman and maker each, to start bringing more knowledge to the Drazken Clan. They accept their task without complaint, placing a significant amount of supplies on one of the carts, and after taking some time to secure the crystal safely within the cart's bed, they set off, the two warriors pulling the cart while the scouts walk alongside them, and before the rest of the camp is awake they are gone.

As the rest of those inhabiting Kyogrock Arcanoworks awaken, I order the remaining Premen (sans Ugrokk and Jojo) to pair up with militia members, and start scouting the area, being thorough about it. As groups mount up, I check on Arkus, Derkin and the twenty odd militia with them, still working through the texts in the tower, and find them completely sure they can fend for themselves, motioning at the veritable mountain of hand-cannons at their disposal, before deciding that I shall take only Arkus to investigate the strange tree, as with only him accompanying me, I can travel without pause, cradling him in my grasp so that the frailties of his flesh do not slow us. When I tell him of our goal, to investigate the strange tree and root phenomenon encountered earlier, I find him ready far faster than I would have expected, and shortly we head out, before the day has yet had a chance to truly begin. I caution those staying at Kyogrock to keep a mindful eye on the fields, as several of the seeds should be sprouting soon. The rest of the day passes without incident, and as I march late into the night without pause, I finally come upon the tree..... to find the situation changed. The spiral of upthrust roots still exists, but the nearby tree now looks withered, the face and hands I once saw now naught but branches and knots. But despite the shadowed murkiness of the deep night, a soft multitude of lights shine forth from some outcropping on the base of the withered tree, many of them moving.

...I also see some sort of creature formed of bark and roots examining the glowing outcropping, it's movements as slow and muted as the tree that cared for the roots earlier. I look to Arkus who I roused soon after nearing this location, who blearily tells me he won't be able to read the book relevant to this until he gets some better light.

The creature of bark and root takes a speculative step towards the glowing outcropping, and one of the lights flies forth, buzzing about before the creature as if in challenge. In response, tendrils of light start snaking out from the creature, which the shining light hastily retreats from.


What should I do?
>>
No. 169681 ID: 12b099

>>169677
>DULU!
Called it.
>>The Unicode stare
I...wow...that is some funny shit, man. Wow.

Well, in regard to tree-thing, greet it - cycle through the languages we know, too, maybe it doesn't speak the language we're speaking. Have Arkus study the thing and do the whole magic bit, too.
>>
No. 169705 ID: 445c48
File 127215925251.png - (16.59KB , 551x421 , FaceFutaba_vectorized1.png )
169705

>unicode stare
>>
No. 169713 ID: 7524b0

>>169677
Try to gently move the new creature away from the outcropping. See if we can find out what's going on here.
>>
No. 169766 ID: b08d07

Oh no! The great deku tree is dead and now the fairies are in danger!!

Seriously now, look at Arkus with your 'glowing' ruby eyes and say "Read now". If the eyes arnet enough remind him that he can make things glow. Grab a stick and light it up.

Yeesh Arkus, those days copped up have dulled your adaptability.
>>
No. 169773 ID: 12b099

>>169766
Hey, the guy just woke up as we Marched Into The Night. But yeah, lets pop some light up for him to study while we try and communicate.
>>
No. 169793 ID: 427807

>>169766
do this.

my only guess is that this creature is somehow bonded to magic
>>
No. 169802 ID: e31d52

Observe, and offer some light for the mageling.

Also yay for traveling alone with him again. Bonding time!
>>
No. 169806 ID: b08d07

>>169766
Just to be clear I didn't mean Soulfire, I meant that Arkus should use his 'make things glow' spell on a stick and use it as a flashlight.
>>
No. 169945 ID: d1210a

>>169681
>>169713
>>169766
>>169773
>>169793
>>169802
"And you lack the capacity to create light? Shake the lethargy from your thoughts, and attend."

"Right, right..."

A soft red glow emits from the books pages, and Arkus sets to reading without further comment, speaking intermittently as he flips through the pages. As his response is slow, I take a moment to lightly push the creature of bark away from the outcropping, but it resolutely continues to move towards it's destination at a slothful pace. The lone light that dashed forth to meat the creature buzzes about my hand for a moment before retreating to the outcropping. I keep a wary eye on the two parties as Arkus speaks.

"...Alright, so these dancing lights, the little mound they occupy, and the fact their on the roots of a dead tree makes them... here it is, they're World Motes. Ah, that is, any flora sufficiently infused with World magic that dies while still rooted will become a.... bridge, I suppose, for the leylines. ...Basically, the tiny, harmless cousins of Core Beings, far as I can tell. ...Yeah, not noted as being harmful unless you have a whole crap-ton of them, and not really capable of much thought in small numbers... Oh, I guess some sort of shared intellect thing, then... yeah, only comment is that if they DO get numbers, they can be capricious, if not outright malicious. Forest spirits, in essence, if given enough time and population density. Ah, unless they do reach such a density, communication has never been successful.

...No clue about that bark creature there, and with the tree in question dead, I don't have enough data to accurately identify what it was. ...Weird, I think the bark... thing wants to eat the World Motes. You would think something like that would be mentioned......"

Twice more the creature tries to approach the outcropping and I stop it during Arkus' monologue, but now I ponder what I should do about them.... and the spiraled upwardly thrust root, still brimming with life and growing, within these woods. Something is happening here, and this close to where I hope to draw supplies from, I do not want a potential problem.... but I still don't even know if this is a problem. Vexing.

The ungainly creature of bark and roots resolutely begins waddling forward a fourth time, set upon reaching the outcropping, and I find myself agreeing with Arkus' assessment of it being hungry.


What should I do?
>>
No. 169947 ID: 445c48

SOULFIRE.
Wait no this is probably a bad idea.

I dunno, soulsuck, see if you can eat the motes.
>>
No. 169952 ID: 275a5d

>>169945
Are we certain it wishes to devour the motes? Perhaps it's after the sapling the dead tree was guarding.

Or the dead tree itself? I don't think we should let it near the area.
>>
No. 169958 ID: abead8

He can't eat the tree if HES ALREADY BEEN EATEN
chow down bro
>>
No. 169960 ID: e31d52

Honestly? I don't think we should interfere. This looks like a natural occurance, it's like saving a butterfly from a spider because the butterfly is more visually appealing.

However, see if you can use your grasp of souls to eat the motes yourself.
>>
No. 170042 ID: 7524b0

Let the bark creature eat the motes.
>>
No. 170054 ID: b08d07

Prime time to gain some more world knowledge buddy.
OM NOM NOM

If you do want to try something wild, calling on what's-her-face Lynrt?
>>
No. 170067 ID: 427807

There has got to be more to this then what is shown at face value. The world motes must be here for some reason, and the wood creature seems intent on exploiting whatever resource the motes have to offer...
I think we should use a pristine soul and attempt to communicate with the creature.
>>
No. 170222 ID: 2aaaf1

>>169945
HOLD ON A MINUTE. This thing "EATS" the world motes? Let it eat it's fill, then take the creature with us. I believe this is the answer we've been looking for. Also, see if you can't salvage some seeds from the dead tree.
>>
No. 170512 ID: 4404d1

Yeah, just let it go after the motes and see what happens after.
>>
No. 170513 ID: 445c48

>>170067
Don't think we should.

We should NOM, and failing that, soulfire. Let's be done with this, it spooks me.
>>
No. 170514 ID: 275a5d

Whats the point of destroying them? It's a waste of our resources.
>>
No. 170519 ID: d1210a

>>169960
>>170042
>>170054
>>170222
>>170512
I elect to allow the creature crafted of bark and roots to ponderously creep toward the glowing outcropping unimpeded, and once more it reaches out with questing feelers softly glowing in the dead of night, as World Motes begin to pour out of the outcropping. Whether their response is defensive or based on curiosity, I do not know, but as motes draw close enough, the writhing tendrils latch on to them, pulling them into the creature's maw. As the creature feasts, more tendrils sprout from it's form, capturing and consuming ever more of the World Motes. I note that as it feasts, it's form visibly begins to swell and grow. Finally the outcropping is bereft of light or movement, and a notably larger creature finally turns to regard the spiral of roots, then stare at me. It plods down the side of the dead tree's base, trekking across the cold earth to draw closer to the spiral of roots. It turns to look at me once more, before setting into the root with it's wooden beak, worrying at it without any observable impact, the glowing tendrils it releases unable to gain purchase on the spiraled tangle. It stops again to stare at me pointedly, before once more ineffectually assaulting the roots.

While the creature is thus occupied, I raise my hand, placing Arkus within the tree's canopy, and order him to search the treetop for seeds, whilst I search the ground for the same. I keep an eye on the bark and root creature as I do, but it continues to attack the root with periodic pauses to stare at me, and this trend continues as Arkus and I forage for seeds. Ultimately, we harvest some two dozen seeds, before I am left with only the creature to occupy my attention. Thoughts of taking it with me, possibly finding use in it's nature, flit across my mind, but I am by no means certain. In any event, it seems I have harvested what I can here, as I pluck Arkus from the treetops, and consider my options.


What should I do? Should I attempt to take the creature? Or should I kill it? Or perhaps something else?
Beyond that, should I do anything more here, or should I start traveling on to either Trepany, Kyogrock Arcanoworks, or some other destination?
>>
No. 170523 ID: 275a5d

>>170519
I do not think we should let it destroy the root. Not yet, at least.

It seems as though it may have some intelligence. Try talking to it
>>
No. 170528 ID: 12b099

If there are any Motes left, could we try to eat one? Just -one-.
>>
No. 170531 ID: 445c48

I think we should burn it. This thing is giving me the creeps.
>>
No. 170547 ID: cf5e63

>>170519
we should ask Kyorto
>>
No. 170557 ID: b08d07

"Well wadaya want ya little freak of nature? Im not giving you my soul number"
>>
No. 170567 ID: 7524b0

>>170519
Bust open the spiral of roots so that the creature may feast upon its chewy center.
>>
No. 170682 ID: 427807

>>170523
talking to it sounds like a good idea, perhaps maybe even boosted by a pristine soul? who knows what insights we could gain into this creature...

If talking doesn't yield any good results, we should have arkus encase it in a crystal prison, like we did with verther's body. That way, we could keep it in an enclosed area for the time being, bring it back to the arcanoworks, and release him and study him.
>>
No. 170740 ID: 2aaaf1

>>170519
Perfect, exactly the result I wanted. Find a way to feed it further, and a way to transport it safely. It's problem solving time.
I've a theory I want to test with this creature, if it works we can work on eliminating one of our most pressing issues at the moment. So here is how I work things out in my head: plant creature > world motes, world motes = really tiny relatives of core beings, HUGE plant creature with help from some ten or fifteen of the seeds we have > core being??? Stop me if I've gone off on a wild tangent.
>>
No. 170758 ID: 275a5d

>>170682
Pristine souls are for when our lives are on the line, not idle banter.
>>
No. 170791 ID: d1210a

>>170557
>>170567
>>170682
>>170740
None are present that I need to keep up my facade about: I act on impulse, pursuing a line of reasoning.

"Well what do you desire from me, Abomination of nature? What do you desire? Or is it so simple as breaking open that root?"

At my final words, the creature turns about to stare at me with more alacrity than it had previously displayed at any prior point, it's whole focus on me. This would seem to support my hypothesis. Before I do anything concerning the creature, I spy a lone World Mote floating freely about the outcropping that once swarmed with their glow, and consume it in the interest of scientific experimentation.

...I could not say if that blip of energy even registered within my core, and in truth I wonder if the whole of the lights once populating the outcropping could have gifted me with anything either, the power involved in these entities seems.... indistinctive.

I lean down to the creature in it's struggle with the unyielding root, Arkus backing off to a respectable distance, and pinch the top of the skyward striving roots, pulping through their tough exterior with ease. As I withdraw my hand, I see a puzzlingly lurid, glowing swirl of colors ooze out of the damaged roots, a feast the bark and root creature willfully sets to, greedily slurping it down. It's body further swells as it climbs up the roots, questing towards the damaged tip. Glowing tendrils sprout from it's body, embedding themselves in the pulped innards of the broken roots, and the creature begins to.... merge with the tangle of vegetation it has climbed. The roots writhe, pulling themselves free from the earth... and with them comes some sort of mass, possibly some sort of giant seed from which the roots sprang, is pulled free, fusing with the creature. The fusion is a chaotic swirl of oscillating roots and flaking bark, but soon enough the creature, once the size of Arkus' head, is notably larger, now comparable to his torso in size.

The creature looks at me again, this time turning it's whole body to face me. I stare at it without response for a moment, and find it's interest in me to be more than passing, it's focus still locked on me. With thoughts of finding a use for the creature running through my mind, I reach out my hand once more, to scoop up the creature in my grasp, but it dodges aside with more surety than it displayed in it's earlier form, but otherwise does not respond. I note Arkus drawing closer, his curiosity overriding his obsession with preserving personal safety in the face of the unknown. I decide to speak to the creature again, as it seemed to respond previously.

"Come with me, I have need of you."

The creature shakes it's head, but continues to stare. Arkus finally offers his own opinion, one I hope to draw some useful information from.

"Yeah, definitely no clue what that is, thing isn't even mentioned in this tome's index."

How enlightening.


What should I do?
>>
No. 170798 ID: b08d07

Well bull, do we have another abomination of nature in love with us? Man, we have to find out whats causing that. Other than an obviously sentient golem.
I'm going to guess this thing is comparable to the one we found in the Mosmordrean forests, just not as strong.

Plant one of the seeds you got in the exact same spot as the other one was, need to check on stuff and I don't think these things are useful outside of the leyline area anyway.

"What is your desire small one?"
>>
No. 170801 ID: 275a5d

>>170791
It seems like it can understand you. This is a good sign. If only it could communicate with us.

"Most curious. It's reactions earlier seem to indicate not only sentience, but comprehension of what we're saying..."

Take a step forward and hold out your hand. Make no other movement, neither to grab or withdraw, and see if it reacts.
>>
No. 170809 ID: 7524b0

>>170791
"What do you want now? Is it that you wish to feast upon the soul energy inside me? Or does it have to do with this power in my hand?" (gesture to Immortal Genocide)
>>
No. 170952 ID: 2aaaf1

>>170791
Is the withered tree-creature truely dead? Ask the small tree-creature if this is its mother, that may be the reason it does not want to leave.
>>
No. 171080 ID: d1210a

>>170798
I gouge out a hole in the earth with one of my fingers, and drop one of the salvaged seeds into the hole before covering it back up, planting it where the spiral roots once grew. The bark and wood creature considers my actions soberly, before stretching it's jaws wide in a facsimile of a yawn, and cocking it's head inquisitively at me form. Based on it earlier responses, I must assume it to understand speech to some degree, and address it once more.

"What is your desire small one?"

The creature cranes it's neck about, as if chasing down an errant thought zooming about it's head, before I hear.... the gurgle of a stomach, muted and distorted, emanating from the creature. It peers at me expectantly while it's stomach growls, and I assume it is trying to communicate something to me.

>>170801
>>170809
I extend my left hand, but make no move to touch the creature. It regards my hand cautiously as I begin speaking again.

"It's reactions earlier seem to indicate not only sentience, But also comprehension of what we're saying... Do you have an aversion to this hand of mine?"

The creature nods it's head, but does not retreat from my hand, at least so long as it remains stationary. It hesitantly pokes it's head closer to my hand, tendrils of light extending from it's form to alight upon my fist, but the moment a tendril makes contact with the runes of Immortal Genocide, a brilliant spark jumps to the creature's form, and it convulses violently for a moment before it can withdraw. The creature does not seem harmed, but it does seem that it experienced something unpleasant in that exchange. Arkus makes little comment, having busied himself with taking exhaustive notes on the creature we encountered as I interact with it.

>>170952
Another question occurs to me, and I put it to the perceptive creature before me.

"Is this entity here, the one you prowled on your progenitor?"

The creature coughs while shaking it's head, content to scratch at the dying tree with it's extremities, seeming focus on cosmetic damages as part of it's answer. I move on to the final question that has occurred to me as of yet.

"And this being here, it is bereft of life now, yes?"

The creature sits on it's haunches as it nods, several of the tendrils creeping forth from it's form and running over it's own body, picking free detritus. The creature considers my still extended hand another time, and while it does not approach my hand any further, it does not retreat either.


What should I do?
>>
No. 171107 ID: 2aaaf1

>>171080
Your origin is mostly of a magical nature, yes? That would explain your reaction to my hand, for it contains the power to destroy magic. Is this power the only reason you refuse to join me? I wish you no harm, I seek only understanding.
>>
No. 171108 ID: 427807

fuck it, ask if it can eat the world spirit thing we encountered at one of the earlier villages
>>
No. 171144 ID: b08d07

"So you are hungry yes? If you come with me I have much more that you can eat, for a cost of course"
>>
No. 171186 ID: 7524b0

>>171080
Perhaps you can release some form of energy for it to feast on. Does the Immortal Genocide allow for you to do this?
>>
No. 171218 ID: d1210a

>>171186
I know of no such method of exuding power from my fist, although I suppose if I was extensive enough in experimentation I might find a method to do so.

..The general concept of displacing power from within my form to the outside world is not in and of itself novel, I do it frequently with Soulfire, Magnetomancy, and the Amaranthine Annihilator, each in it's own way. But the key difference is all of these approaches convert the energy I release into a form that is not safely handled, rendering them weapons, whereas I am now considering the possibility of safely taking a piece of my power, and effectively turning it into a standalone source of power. While I have no idea how this could be done, I do not doubt it's possibility, I just need to find a method of doing so, and a type or collection of energies that can be released.

The creature continues to look at me, and I realize that my theories are largely irrelevant right now, as I still have no way to give the creature some of my power in a non-terminal manner.

A pity.

>>171107
"Your origins are predominately magical, yes?"

The creature nods reproachfully, seeming offended I needed to ask, but I continue on my train of thought unimpeded.

"Perhaps your aversion is to the enchantments in my hand? Amongst them is the ability to dispel, to destroy magic."

The creature takes a cautionary step back from my hand, holding it's weight low in preparation for movement.

"Do not be alarmed, I do not intend you harm, In fact, I find you quite intriguing."

The creature relaxes, amiably sitting on it's haunches again, regarding me with it's profile, the way it moves it's head reminding me more and more of the few birds I have seen, appraising objects with a single curious orb.

>>171108
Considering the possible connections between the World Motes and Core Beings, and what this creature could mean for both types of entities, I ask a markedly different question.

"There are entities referred to by many names, Core Beings, World Nightmares, the titles vary, But they seem to describe the same thing, An errant fragment of the power of the Leylines, Possibly the world of Zakrath itself. Do you know of what type of creature I speak?"

The creature whimpers, drawing it's bark and root from tighter about itself, but it nods to my query nonetheless.

"Would you be capable of eating such a thing? They strike me as similar to World Motes, That which you feasted on earlier."

The creature seems torn between a plethora of desired responses. It uncoils itself, spreading itself as wide as it can, and cocks it's head questioningly at me. Then it relaxes into it's normal posture, taking up less space, and mournfully shakes it's head. The creature also finds time to return to the prior location of the root spiral it merged with, and nods it's head, making a content purring noise. It manages to do all this nearly at the same time, and I am forced to wonder, what kind of message was it trying to convey?

>>171144
I find this creature intriguing, and still have several unanswered questions concerning it. I have already decided it would be preferable to take the creature with me, and I believe I now know what it needs to hear to follow me.

"You hunger still, yes?"

The creature nods smartly, it's entire attention now poised on my every word. My hypothesis seems to be holding up.

"I can provide more food for you, If you shall follow me. What say you?"


With it's stomach growling even still, I am unsurprised to find the previously resistant creature happily squeaking as it nods.


What should I do? Should I continue questioning the creature? Or should I start moving to a new location, and if so, where?
>>
No. 171223 ID: 7524b0

>>171218
When we questioned it about if it could eat a Core Being, it puffed itself up questioningly (is it big?) then indicated (no), gestured to the root and indicated it liked it (this is food).

So basically it's saying that if the core being is HUGE then it can't eat it. The World Motes are small and weak and thus serve as food.

Let's ask Arkus of ways in which we might charge up some kind of item with magical energy to serve as an extra food source.
>>
No. 171231 ID: 1ac39d

>>171223
ah, but the core being we are referring too is trapped. it may be able to slowly drain it through the door instead of having to fight it.
>>
No. 171239 ID: b08d07

My guess is that it needs to get bigger before it can take on the Core Being. It needs more food (i.e. world magic in some form) to get big enough to contain such a thing.

"Arkus are there any indicators that could help me find more world motes? This creature needs food and though you could likely do so, I do not wish for it to get used to taking it's food from humans. Maybe soon it will be able to speak.
A thought occurs to me, do you still have the stone I acquired in the forests of Mosmordre? It seems to have come from a creature quite like this one. It's study would likely prove enlightening in this situation"
>>
No. 171522 ID: 427807

>>171239
i agree. show the creature the stone, see if it recognizes it, and if it might be useful towards something.
>>
No. 171558 ID: d1210a

>>171239
>>171522
I recall the irregular stone I found in the Mosmordren ruins, left behind by some strange animal I suspect was not what it appeared. It seems feasible the creature, and the stone it left behind, are in some way related with the events I have thus far witnessed here, and I wonder if I could learn more from the creature. I ask Arkus to hand me the stone, and as it tumbles into my hand, I hear the gurgling and rumbling of the creature's hunger redouble, it's biege orbs captivated by the stone I now cradle. I experimentally move my hand about, and the creature's gaze stays resolutely locked upon my hand.

"Arkus, is there any mention of how to find more World Motes? Possibly signs for noting their presence in an area, Or some method of encouraging their presence? This creature needs sustenence in the form of World Magic, And I aim to see it grow considerably."

"Ah.... well, no mention yet on how to make them more prevalent, but I still haven't read all the material on World Motes. As for tracking them down.... well, it says they are in general more prevalent the closer you get to leylines, ESPECIALLY around Leyline Geysers, though good luck finding one that ISN'T locked down by some magely group or a national government. ....Hm, once we get back, I could work out the nearby areas with good chances of World Mote presence by referencing that book on local leylines I saw....."

[NOTE: Leyline Geysers are where intersecting leylines create a vent reaching to the surface, with copious amounts of undirected World Magic will spew forth unceasingly. Highly valued by mages as being able to power numerous sustained spells that would otherwise be impossible. For further information, direct queries to the discussion thread.]

As Arkus trails off, already lost in contemplation of how to gain the data I desire, I glance back to the wood and bark creature, now whining as it's belly growls, it's wide eyes pleading with me as it stares at the rock in my hand. I pull my hand back, and the creature pursues, doggedly staying close to the pebble that captivates it so. I even try taking a few steps back, and the creature continues to pursue me, displaying a dogged fixation on the stone that far exceeds that which it attributed to either the World Motes of the root spiral. I note Arkus carefully binding the notes he took on this venture before stowing them away, books appearing in his hands as if to replace the notes he no longer bears, as he continues to mumble to himself, reading in the soft red glow of the illuminated books.

>>171231
While it seems reasonable to me to interpret the creature's earlier antics as meaning it considers itself too small to tackle a Core Being, a viewpoint I find myself agreeing with. But even beyond the possibility of caring for and feeding the creature till such time it could handle a Core Being directly, I consider other possibilities. When I tried to feast directly on the soul of the Core Being near Trekel, it had some form of reaction, and I wonder if this creature could feed on the trapped Core Being without it being freed. If such a thing were discovered to be possible, whoever pioneered it could gain fame and power both for their discovery, and I admit both appeal to me.

[DAY 77]

I note Arkus having to pause for more and more yawns as he reads, and imagine the little sleep he was able to afford himself is likely insufficient to restore him to peak capacities. The wood and bark creature, however, has thus far shown no signs that fatigue is even something it has to deal with, partly explaining my growing affinity with the creature. ...And I must admit, it's clumsy, ugly frame seems to endearing for some perplexing reason... strange indeed. It continues to whine while it's belly rumbles, eying my hand and the stone it holds with a paradoxical conglomeration of patience and urgency.


What should I do?
>>
No. 171560 ID: 7524b0

>>171558
Give it the stone of course.
>>
No. 171571 ID: 2aaaf1

>>171558
That stone let Arkus see the world spirit inside of us, so maybe it could help him detect other world spirits, or a congregation of world magics. Experiment with it before giving it to the creature.
>>
No. 171587 ID: 58ec1e

Do Not Give It The Stone.
whatever it is it helped us and our men before, and that makes it a friend.
>>
No. 171591 ID: 716eb0

>>171587
The stone really hasn't shown any signs of life since then though. And it seemed like a small part of a greater being, more like a shell or a lens to look through for a time, not the whole thing. I suspect it left a tastey smelling magical imprint on the thing.

If this sort of thing keeps up, the story about Mordre being a wise and powerful mage performing ongoing research is going to be less and less of a lie. That seems like a fine goal to me, and you can't make an omlette without yadda yadda...
>>
No. 171592 ID: 427807

>>171587
when did it help us before? As far is i know, we received the stone from the squot, arkus touched it and felt the world spitiy, then we put it away until just this instant.
I want to say we should attempt to test out the stone before giving it to the creature, but i don't think any palpable results will occur from this. Therefore, lets give the creature the stone; i mean, he has to be going after it for some reason, right? lets figure out that reason
>>
No. 171593 ID: 6050bc

"I know that you are coherent and that is enough for you to make a decision. I will give you that which you seek in exchange for your undying loyalty and swear upon that which moves you that you will never move against me and my own."
Being a being of magic, I expect that its word is enough for a binding contract. The effect of words are much more profound in the magical realm. Hopefully it's not one of those that lie prodigiously.
>>
No. 171594 ID: e31d52

Just a moment, let me cut in with a realization:

The creature we found in the mountains? It's connected to us somehow. Or more accurately, our past, before we were shut down. It's hard to perfectly place where I get the feeling, but I have two ideas, possibly they are related.

Idea one: The creature is infested with Mordre's old souls.

We all know that before Mordre was shut down, he had souls he does not have now. What we don't know is where these went, or what happened to them. Certainly, souls normally dissipate in time, but if you were to strike an especially lethal blow, and force them all, or most out at once, they might be able to wander quite far, I suppose, and perhaps they found a new vessel in this odd creature.

Furthermore, Mosmordre was known for using a lot of golems in the war, so I'm assuming life golems are no exceptions. Since I haven;t heard otherwise, I'm assuming they don't need food, it probably followed the last orders it had before its master passed away: Gaurding the capital. It wasn't there to stop Arkus, but it likely felt Mordre waking up. If idea one is true, then perhaps the sense of connection lead it to tail us into the mountains, where we met it.

Bloody fantastic. We have a soulmate, literally. and it's a giant fucking monster that may or may not want to murder us.
>>
No. 171596 ID: d1210a

>>171560
>>171571
>>171591
>>171592
>>171593
"I know you to be cognizant of what I say, Just as I know you desire this stone I hold. So I make this offer: Follow me, heed my words, And offer no harm to myself or my other charges, ......And this stone is yours. Do you accept?"

The creature blinks each eye individually as it cranes it's head about, pacing in small circles as it deliberates. But the rumbling of it's stomach intensifies, and ultimately will not be denied: The creature turns back to me, and nods, looking at my hand expectantly. From it's decision, I estimate my earlier deduction, that the stone was related to World magic and it's source, the leylines, to be accurate, and find myself desirous of further tests on the stone.... only to recall Arkus having fruitlessly tried experimentation with the stone at many of our periodic campsites, all yielding no clues as to it's purpose or effect, beyond giving Arkus the ability to perceive the caged one while it was in me. Considering our location, the chances of finding out further data with field testing seems negligible, so I elect to simply give the stone over now, letting it tumble from my hand to the waiting root creature.

The root and bark construct eagerly reaches forth, snatching the stone out of the air with the freshly sprouting tendrils of light from about it's form, and eagerly feasts on it's prize. As the stone passes down it's gullet, I see it harshly glow, it's light erratic and stark, straight through the creature's chest as it moves toward the center of it's mass. But the light softens, and slowly fades, all the while the creature running a multitude of tendrils over it's own form, it's body becoming thicker, hardier. As the metamorphosis ends, the creature looks at me with sober eyes, a sense of relaxed acceptance emanating from it's form.

[GAINED FOLLOWER: ?????? CREATURE]

>>171594
>creature was part of Mosmordren forces pre-Curse
>the patchwork creature is Mordre's soulmate
....My thoughts return to the patchwork creature I encountered not too long ago, and I find myself puzzling over it's obsession with me, as it seems clear it stalks me. Further, it's appearance makes it look to have suffered from the Curse, which would place it in Mosmordren land during it's fall.... possibly because it was once part of Mosmordre's military might, the same as I... yes, that seems plausible, the Mosmordren Empire had no qualms with the use of golems of any sort, the creature could easily be a life golem or some such. But still, that doesn't seem sufficient explanation, if-

!!!MOMENT OF INSPIRATION!!!
[+1 PRISTINE SOUL TOTAL: 2]

...Hm. The Curse disrupted souls and their connection to the bodies they were bound to, with both myself and this creature being present to suffer from it. I came out of it with souls still in my possession.... as my only possessions. If the creature pursues me, it must be about souls, making me wonder if the creature now bears some of my old souls or vice versa. Still, I feel confident that I have identified it's origins, and considering it's bond with me is of this format, I expect it will continue to hound me, until such time only one of us remains, or I find some manner to enslave it.


What should I do?
>>
No. 171615 ID: 716eb0

Pet Creature Read Note
>>
No. 171641 ID: 7524b0

>>171596
This creature seems to be a life golem of sorts, but uses World Magic for energy instead of Soul Magic.
>>
No. 171664 ID: 2aaaf1

>>171596
We've determined the creature's origins, let me take a crack at guessing what, or more importantly WHO the creature is.
I think I've gathered enough information over the course of the quest to make an educated guess about our stalker's identity:
1. Mordre cannot sense a soul within the creature. It was even implied(either in an earlier point in the quest or in the discussion thread, I'm too tired to look right now) that the creature may be seeking it's soul.
2.The missing soul of the creature resides in our well. This point is reinforced by our first meeting. It sought us out because it heard our dirge, this is extremely related to the creature because of the nature of our dirge. When we speak, we use the knowledge gained from the souls in Mordre, we talk in the tongues of the dead. The creature came to us, because it recognized the voice it once possessed.
3.The creature is Mordre's soulmate. This leads me to belive that the creature wasn't just some random life golem, it had to be someone who knew us personally.

I believe I know how it all went down. The creature is a twisted mutation of the high mage that sponsored our creation. We were finished just before the curse destroyed everything, nobody knew what hit them until it was too late. The process we intend to use to free Kyorto is most likely the same one that was used to make us. Our creator must have been consumed by the curse, his soul nearly obliterated from having the magic torn from his body. A shard of the mage's soul is injected into us, not nearly enough to give us the powers of a heroic soul, but enough to give us sentience. This explains why Arkus couldn't control us, if anyone remembers, he said: "I...I... I bind you to me, Soul Grave Golem, o' engine of war and death, to serve my will in the absence of masters." Our master is not absent at all. We were created to serve our master, and the magics that bind us to our master's service still work, only instead of a mindless peon, we are allowed free reign over our actions because we ARE our own master, literally.

Feel free to poke holes in my hypothesis, I'm not entirely sure I'm right, but it kinda makes sense to me.
>>
No. 171667 ID: 427807

awesome, the creature will follow us now!
lets head back to the arcanoworks and get arkus to some more book learnin' while we plan out next move back at our new, local headquarters.

Also, >>171594
props for putting shit together! seriously, i didn't expect this
>>
No. 171686 ID: 45be60

>>171664
Well, hole number one is that we have memories of being in battle before gaining sentience. These are not hints of recollection and understanding gained from soul knowledge, but actual memories viewed through a fog. Mordre seems to be able to tell the difference.

Also I am uncomfortable with people throwing the word "soulmate" around on this one.

And the twisting and random mutation of every living thing in the country seems like a good enough explanation for our sentience. It only makes me wonder how the other Soul Graves were subtly mutated.
>>
No. 171717 ID: e31d52

Speaking of mosmordre, mayhaps it's time we visit it again? Things seem stable here, we might be able to go it alone.Just run all night and day, get the skin to kyorto, (make sure to mention the mageling's growth) and... let's have another 'chat' with the Small Tomb.
>>
No. 171758 ID: 6050bc

>>171717
We already sent the skin back with some Premen.
Props for the Pristine Soul get.

Back to the Arkanoworks.
>>
No. 171822 ID: d1210a

>>171641
Hm, the creature's preference for World magic, and the way it augments itself as it feeds, reminds me... of myself, actually, and how I feast on souls.

>>171664
...Hmm, if the possibility the creature is seeking a soul trapped within my well exists, then I now must concern myself with the notion, not just of finding out what this creature is, but WHO it was. I start to postulate on the identity of this creature, only to realize I have a dearth of knowledge, concerning the inhabitants of the ruins I was found in.... and I imagine Kyorto may be able to assist me with that. A thought to consider for the future, as the more insight I gain into the creature that stalks me, the more options I feel shall open up before me.

>>171667
>>171758
I conclude that my business here is finished for the nonce, and reclaim Arkus within my grasp... and consider my new companion.

"If you cannot keep up with me, I shall have to carry you for a time, I have a location I wish to reach swiftly. Do you understand?"

I hear a creaking groan, like old trees swaying in the wind, issue forth from my new follower, the being of bark and root, and see a faint glimmer of light shine through it's torso from the stone it devoured, as it digs it's legs into the ground, ready to take off, nodding at me eagerly. .....It would seem the creature is confident in it's mobility.

Then we shall test it.

I set off back to the north, heading back towards the Kyogrock Arcanoworks at my inexhaustible pace of some tens mile per hour... and find the creature keeping pace with me without issue. In fact, it periodically runs ahead of me to await my arrival, or circles about me as I pace, the glow from it's chest still barely visible. Impressed with this rather sudden change in how physically capable the creature appears to be, I decide to test just how mobile the creature really is. I take hold of my own form via Magnetomancy, and start manipulating my own magnetic fields, making my movements more fluid, my body more responsive, and my general speed swell. I hear a yelp of surprise as the creature is abruptly outpaced, and Arkus chuckles in my hand as he continues to yawn. But the creature regains it's momentum, and we continue to barrel through the woods ever northward, and some time after the sun has risen, Arkus once more asleep in my hand, we emerge from the forest south of the arcanoworks. I see guards stationed at each of the towers about the walls spot us and shout commands about the area, and before we get all that close I find the gates opening for us, Derkin, Oggroth, several other Premen and a score or more of the militia all await my arrival, with Oggroth speaking first.

"Jojo mending Ugrokk still, wound challenging, but good fortune from scouts: three bandit parties encoutered in patrols, all three dispatched, more glory for chieftain Mordre."

The rest of the Premen look pleased at Oggroth's comment, but as Derkin sees their smiles, he scowls while he interjects.

"I hope the great oaf told you that in their victory, they forgot to loot the bodies, and by the time I find out, someone else had already gotten there and stripped them clean. ...Well, I do have to give them credit, they did tear through at least two score bandits between the three groups, and beyond them, we haven't seen any sign of further.... miscreants about. I hate to sound optimistic and all that, but I think the immediate area is clear, our foes dead or fled. Didn't find any new towns about.... but there ARE those two towns I heard Ugrokk and the two that went with him scouting a bit ago located south in the forest, their status still unknown. Let's see, what else...."

One of the militiamen speaks up as Derkin trails off.

"Well, we did note that it looks like there is another set of plains north of here, but it was far enough away it would take multiple days to scout. But.... I think we should scout it further, I saw some smoke coming from the plains, I think there may be more trouble there-"

"Shut yer yap, kid.... but he is right, it does look like there may be more problems north of here, as he said, though I don't see it as being as much of a problem. Our new base is right here, and anything that might threaten the southern towns and farms will have to go past us, and we have plenty of military strength."

"Speaking of strength, we got all those nice mini cannons here, and those expanding weapons: Why are we not using them? Would make patrols easier-"

"I said shut it! ...Well, this is what happens when the men get bored. Might want to give them new orders, they've been loafing about since yesterday night, Oggroth the worst of the lot, bastard drank a barrel of rum I'd found... ANYWAY, the militia need orders, and I imagine your own troops could be given new commands as well. ...Oy, is Arkus STILL asleep? Honestly, IWHATHTEHELLISTHAT!?"

I glance past the now waking Arkus to see the wood creature pawing at Derkin's leg, looking at him inquisitively. As the ex-bandit sees my lack of concern, he settles down, an eye still locked upon the creature. Arkus yawns loudly as he rubs sleep from his eyes, taking care as he climbs out of my hand and onto the ground. He starts heading towards the central tower, but turns about to walk backwards as he speaks to me.

"So.... I still haven't finished an in-depth catalog of what this place has, in terms of books, I have those World Mote areas you want me to find, and further studies as to what... that.... is. What do you want me to pursue first?"


What should I do?
What should Arkus prioritize?
What orders should I give the Premen/the militia not helping Arkus in the tower?
>>
No. 171872 ID: 427807

well we don't need any more information on world motes currently, so lets have arkus research runes for golemcraft, so we can get some cool new shit hopefully.
Another good alternative would be to have him research our new creature-friend. that would also be highly useful

I think we should go on a few-day length expedition to find out the goings-on of the local politics. Let's take about half the premen, with oggroth, and maybe a quarter or so of the militiamen. we should leave arkus, jojo and uggrock, and derkin to manage the town/continue with work.
>>
No. 171889 ID: 23bee4

Quick suggestion,but we really should take out DULU as fast as we can, so he doesnt' start up another bandit army.
>>
No. 171898 ID: 2aaaf1

>>171822
Put all the world mote areas you can find on a map, have the militia socut these places out. Tell them to be cautious, because the world motes may be dangerous for them in groups. How far is Arkus from completely cataloging the books, have him finish that. Then tell Arkus to gather up all the books on Word magic, Regenerative magic, and Augmentive magic. He must master the basics before trying anything like summoning the world spirit again.
>>
No. 171903 ID: ae46bd

What 171898 said would work best in addition to also searching Mordre's "memories" or at the least attempting to search the memories of the souls he has devoured. Another suggestion is to have a group be on the lookout for the creature that has been following us, more to keep track of it than to harm it. Mostly for us to know about until we have a chance to figure out whom he was.
>>
No. 171909 ID: 9cf8b3

Have Arkus finish cataloging the data here, we just may find what we need from that.

And for fun and SCIENCE...
"If you men have so little to do that you can speak so idly then I shall teach you a thing or two. Report to the training grounds within the hour and I will give you the experience of fighting a mage wielding a golem, Derkin you are also included.(Switch to Premen tongue)Report to the training grounds, there you will see the level of strength you need."
Way I see it, they need to learn how to manage themselves around golems and mages anyway and I don't want their first experience to be on the battlefield else it will likely be their last as well. Go easy on them of course.

Tell Arkus to keep an eye on the creature. Hopefully it doesn't eat all the metal.
>>
No. 171985 ID: d1210a

>>171872
>>171889
>>171898
>>171903
"Arkus, get me a map of local areas, Where World Motes might be found to be, Then finish your catalog of the tower's books... On that subject, how much longer will that take?"

"....Ah, not really sure, actually. Some books are mostly diagrams, drawings and such, and are easy to classify. Others have dense script or words that most of the militia can't read, or don't even have a central focus. I've found more than a dozen rambling journals already, and I imagine more are around somewhere. Best guess? ...Maybe three days to finish it? But by then, I'll know enough about what books are on what that I could act as main librarian, or something of that nature. ...Anyway, I'll get right on that World Mote thing."

Arkus slips of my hand and shambles away as I spontaneously consider the souls within my form, and the possibility of dredging memories from them.... until I recall that barring the hero and mage souls I consume, all those I feast on are bound within the Soulfire deep in my belly, doomed to burn away at my behest. The only time I can claim memories is mid-feast, and no other time.

My thoughts then move on to Dulu, and I decide that I shall be making a journey to deal with him very soon, before he can grow as a threat. I could likely stop by the two villages in the forest during this venture, to learn more about the local situation, as well as finding more people who may be convinced they owe me for ridding them of Lord Barcho. I did come here partly to gain a reasonable supply line for Mordreden and the Drazken Clan, after all. I'll set off to deal with both of these issues...

>>171909
...After I correct the intolerable amount of insubordination I have seen here.

"If you have so little to do that you can speak so idly, Then I it is time for me to... teach... you all. Report to the training grounds within the hour, And I will give you the experience of fighting a mage wielding a golem, Derkin you are also included."

As I here shock rippling through the militia ranks, I switch to the Premen tongue.

"Report to the training grounds, there you will see the level of strength you need, There you shall see the power I demand you all to pursue on the path of strife."

I rebuff the few protests offered, and shortly the militia realize they cannot get out of this, and set off along with the Premen to prepare for their coming challenge. One of the militia comes up to me, and timidly asks if they are allowed to use the morphing weapons, or the hand-cannons in their fight, and whether my own warriors will be helping them.


What should I say to these requests?
Should I do anything before the match in an hour?
How should I approach this, considering it is partly a punishment for insubordinate behavior?
>>
No. 171988 ID: d08355

In a worst case scenario, they will have nothing but their ingenuity and normal weapons that they could find anywhere on the battlefield, and that is what they shall have now. The Premen will be allowed to help. It might be hard to manage all of them without killing them but you can't make it seem as if you are weak. You can probably mess with everyone using magnetomancy so it should be alright.
>>
No. 171991 ID: d08355

Oh yea. At the start of the battle give them the disclaimer "On the battlefield, death is an ever-present possibility. There is no difference now. Do your best or you will become an early lunch for my golem."

Something else has been concerning me. Uggroth's armour was made by Del Roga, thus if we want a good repair we will have to return to him.
>>
No. 172005 ID: 7524b0

Let's not use any of our special weapons. We will merely be using fists. That means no Tentaclaw, any of the abilities in our Soul Nexus, or our Magnetomancy (in a direct manner anyway).

They are allowed to use guns and morphic weapons, but we will be utilizing Magnetomancy to prevent serious damage to ourselves and the troops. Bullets and blades will be slowed just enough. So will our fists.
>>
No. 172006 ID: 7524b0

Also no shoulder weapons.
>>
No. 172017 ID: 275a5d

Do try not to kill them. I think it's clear that we far outclass the militia.

Set them a goal to achieave, like "Last x (amount of time) in battle". They have no feasible way of defeating you otherwise, and it then just becomes a case of "we're pounding on our own men for funsies."
>>
No. 172039 ID: d08355

Guys come on. If we don't use some magic then it dosen't come off as realistic. Remember this is just as much punishment as it is training. We have to teach them the hard way what fighting a golem and magewould be like. I don't mean that we should slice of arms and rend people asunder, but we can do things like push them with magic and make them fall over, scare them with a few "close misses" with the blades and such. Basically we need to bring it as close to the real thing without killing any of them and not make it seem that we are taking it too easy on them. When we finish wailing on them we can be all like "This was but a fragment of my true power" blah blah blah.
>>
No. 172051 ID: 275a5d

>>172039
Its OBVIOUSLY not going to be realistic, as "Realistic" ends with all of them dying horribly. They know this as well as we do. And they're not going to learn what to do just from one session.

You don't start off training by going full bore. Contrary to popular belief, "SINK OR SWIM" doesn't work. At all.
>>
No. 172176 ID: d1210a

rolled 3, 1, 1, 3 = 8

>>171988
>>172005
>>172006
>>172017
>>172039
>>172051
"You shall not be given access to those weapons, As there is no guarantee you will have access to such, Should you have to face another Soul Grave. Now go, and make yourself ready for the trial to come."

The militiamen snaps off a salute far crisper than I have recently seen, and dashes off, sparing one final glance over his shoulder. I then turn my mind towards how to stay a credible threat without causing copious amounts of fatalities....

PERSPECTIVE SHIFT: ULZRICK(militiamen, Trepany)

...Ok, so, Mordre said we cannot have access to those fancy weapons, the shape changers, the cannons, nothing. I'd be okay with that, if someone ELSE was going to have to fight a fifteen foot tall siege weapon just because some idiots got overly friendly with the mage.

So, I happened to have, well, found a few of the morphic weapons, two of the javelins, and one of the axes, which are now sitting pretty hanging about my body. Now, I already plan to use them in the coming fight if it will prevent me from getting the crap kicked out of me, and I already got an idea of how to swing it so I don't get in trouble. Something along the lines of 'War is never a certain thing, so just as we can never rely on having sufficient gear, we also should not neglect training with them, blah blah blah. A bit rough, but I can work out the details when I get to them.

ANYWAY, my question is this: Should I potentially give any of the three weapons I appropriated to any of my fellow Militiamen, or should I keep them to myself? And is there anything I should do in this hour before the conflict to better prepare?
[Rolls are for Ulzrick's physical stats, in order: Strength, Stamina, Reflexes, Flexibility. 1 is poor, 2 is average, 3 is great. Ulzrick's mental stats will be determined by player actions]
>>
No. 172178 ID: 275a5d

>>172176
He's stiff and easily tired.

Boys 'bout ta get wrecked.
>>
No. 172183 ID: d08355

>>172176
You sneaky little bastard, this will not bode well for you, but if your gonna do bad, do it so good that nobody can say anything about it. By the way, that is not a good enough excuse.

So strong and flexible huh? You would be a good wrestler, too bad the opponent is a 15ft 1-ton engine of death.
It's too early for me to give you specific instructions but this is what Ive got. Start out with the axe in full form too make it appear that you don't have anything special. Aim for the non-clawed side of his body and approach slowly, no need to run to your death. If you manage to get up to his hand without meeting an untimely death, use all your strength to slam the shrunken javelin into his 'elbow' and quickly extend and retract it on impact. If your lucky, you will get a good hit in and still keep everyone guessing as to what the heck you just did.
>>
No. 172190 ID: 427807

>>172183
i believe your weight estimate is inaccurate, good sir. Last official weight was some 28,000 lbs, or about 14 tons. you, sir, are a dolt!

Because we are strong, flexible, but weak in stamina, we should share our excess weapons with fellow militiamen, to make up for our apparent laziness.
>>
No. 172236 ID: d1210a

>>172178
>He's stiff and easily tired
Now, I won't deny that I may not have the best stamina around, but stiff? Me? Never! I pride myself on staying quite limber, and I have several seasons experience at grappling under my belt, so please don't call me stiff.

...Oh hey, new voices in my head. Fun times.

>>172190
>share our excess weapons with fellow militiamen
Fair enough, after all, that way I'm not the only one that broke the rules, safety in numbers, a reasonable thing to seek.

>>172183
>you sneaky little bastard
Hey now, no need to be rude, I've always been cordial to the voices I hear, even if you are figments of my imagination, no need to get antagonistic like that.

>but if your gonna do bad, do it so good that nobody can say anything about it
Now see, that's what I can use, a helpful observation like this. Refuge in audacity, a simple concept to get behind.

I take some time, a score of minutes if I must estimate, to make my way over to where the morphic weapons are stored, and help myself to a few more, thinking of some four other people who I feel would be amenable to exploiting such a boon as this. They seem inclined to act suspicious when they assume it is a trap, but when I transition from offering it as a gift to offering to trade it for future favors, none object and four more people become beholden to Ulzrick, each armed with one of the poleaxes. As I do so another voice comments to me that facing a golem is madness, but I quash it with observations that logically, the mage wouldn't offer a real threat to life and limb in a training venture, and discuss our general plan.

The hope is to stay on the golem's left side, away from the unfolding saw-toothed mess that makes up it's right forearm, I want none of that. I hope to get behind the golem so I can use one of the javelins I carry to attack it's joints, but beyond that I'm not sure what we can do. Glances about the area show other groups of militia carefully planning out how they shall survive this coming ordeal.

Time passes, and we report to the cleared space for training, the mage Mordre already waiting for us. He starts talking, mentioning he won't use his fire, death gaze, or artillery, so hey, that's nice. He also notes our goal is to last as long as possible against him, while exploiting any opportunities to assail his form. Well, with the bar set low like that, I see confidence go back into forlorn faces, and a voice whispers to me that surely the other militia will keep Mordre occupied whilst I and those who follow me now move to flank. I see Derkin standing alone, his mail cloak hanging particularly heavily about him, the clink of shifting metal issuing from his form like always.

Mordre announces that the fight has begun, and I see at least half the militia immediately running forwards with cries of defiance leaping to their lips while spreading out, and no voice needs to snicker as I laugh out loud at their stupidity. Perhaps a fifth of the total militia did not immediately charge, and I note Derkin is also hanging back. Mordre is some thirty feet away, with most of the militia midway to his position. Mad cackling fills my mind, but I ignore them like usual as I consider what actions I should take.


What should I do?
Should I attempt to enlist Derkin for collective efforts against Mordre?
>>
No. 172238 ID: 0204d4

I'm Sure that Derkin would rather be a loner and besides, he might be able to distract Mordre while you get into position...a plan he would no doubt disagree with if told.
>>
No. 172407 ID: 275a5d

>>172236
Very well. Slow response time and easily tired.

Crack a grin at Derkin and circle around, motioning for him to do the same. Use the idiots and their reckless charge to cover your maneuvre.
>>
No. 172552 ID: 427807

>>172407
i agree, flank mordre, and aim the spike-javelins at the elbow regions, hopefully making movement of the arms increasingly difficult.
lets hope this goes well...
>>
No. 172591 ID: d1210a

>>172238
>I'm sure that Derkin would rather be a loner
Yeah, might be true. Hmm, there is no doubt though that he is probably the best fighter on the field right now, so his aid would be nice.

>He might be able to distract Mordre while you get into position...a plan he would no doubt disagree with if told
Right, that is a good point too. Alright, definitely can't ask him to help.

>>172407
>Very well. Slow response time and easily tired
Well.... I can't object to that one as much, really. I am a bit slower in my responses ever since I got this gut, and I got it because I wasn't keeping my conditioning up, since I could rely on my brute strength for most stuff. Keddic's training has been getting me back into better shape, and the marching and fighting both were good, but I'll need time if I'm going to get sprightly again.

...Yes, I know sprightly is a strange word, shut up. ...Wait, wrong voice.
Anyway, you were saying something?

>Crack a grin at Derkin and circle around, motioning for him to do the same.
Simple enough, and it leaves what I plan vague. I manage to attract Derkin's attention while I start moving to flank the golem, and shoot him a cavalier grin, inclining my head in the direction I move. Derkin's eyes narrow, and he sets off to circle around to the golem's other side, opposite the five of us with better armaments than the rest of the militia.

>Use the idiots and their reckless charge to cover your maneuver
I do just that, wincing as I watch the golem's blade-ribbon-things, and start laying about at those who come near, slapping them about with the flat of the blade. They start to drop like flies, but Derkin manages to move ably enough, and avoids getting struck down. The side we have moved to, those of us with the foresight to plan for this, is less foreboding... just an arm larger than our whole group of five put together, that's all. A few of the fringe members of the initial charge are still fine, and proceed us in approaching the arm. They get swatted about like insects for their courage, but they occupy the gargantuan limb long enough that both parties, my group of five and Derkin, now stand on opposed sides of the Soul Grave, with the mage's attention focused on the mass of a score or so still standing militia, already fragmenting into small pockets of resistance.

>>172552
>aim the spike-javelins at the elbow regions, hopefully making movement of the arms increasingly difficult.
Right, the time to act is now. I lead our group in a rushed but quiet charge, trying to avoid attracting the mage's singular attention before I can strike. We get within some five feet of the arm, when it sweeps towards us like a battering ram, knocking one of my companions senseless, his poleaxe falling from his grasp. I see my chance, and jam one of my two pilfered morphic javelins, still in the form of a small spike, into the golem's elbow joint right as I trigger it. The weapon jumps in my hand as it reshapes itself, but I deactivate it as swiftly as I strike, and slip it back up my sleeve as I replace my now free hand on the great axe's handle, and swing it down at the arm before me as I leap back, a resounding clang echoing forth upon impact, and I open some distance.

The golem is starting to turn towards our group.

>lets hope this goes well...
...Yeah, it's looking at me. I don't think things went well at all.


What should I do?
>>
No. 172604 ID: b14128

Split up the group (Or split away from the group yourself) and run away! You might not have much stamina, but your strength should hopefully make you good at sprinting. Or good enough, anyway. The point is to keep out of the golem's reach long enough for the others to move in and attack, or enough that the mage's attention shifts elsewhere.
>>
No. 172606 ID: b14128

>>172604
Oh, and splitting up the entire group and all of you running away and spreading out is preferable to you acting alone, because then mage Morde would have to choose only one of you to go after, because he couldn't easily get at all of you, meaning that, while one person might possibly be in deep trouble, on the whole, the group would do alright.

...And if you're worried about that 'One person being you' and pain and self-preservation and stuff, keep in mind this is only training, so you should be fine even if you are unlucky.
>>
No. 172615 ID: 95766b

Yell "Split up" and then use that formidable leg strength of yours to jump to the side, hopefully towards his back.
If your lucky, he won't identify you as a leader and out you immediately. If your REALLY lucky, Derkin will strike now.
>>
No. 172756 ID: 275a5d

>>172591

Underhanded toss one of the morphic weapons to Derkin and lead the Golem's facing. If it's focusing on you, try to get it's back to Derkin and the rest of your group.

Split the rest of the weapons among your group before splitting off from them.

How many are left from the initial charge?
>>
No. 172812 ID: d1210a

>>172604
>>172606
>Split up the group (Or split away from the group yourself) and run away!
Done and done. With a shout, I get the four of us still standing to split apart in an effort to minimize how many the golem can target at once. ...Also, that's weird, you said stuff twice like that, feels... off, I guess. I don't know. Moving on.

>>172615
>use that formidable leg strength of yours to jump to the side, hopefully towards his back.
I continue in my circling about the Soul Grave, trying to get behind it's back, where I presume I might find some safety, and more chances to attack joints.

>>172756
>Underhanded toss one of the morphic weapons to Derkin
I see Derkin rallying some militia while the pressure is lessened on their side, and get ready to toss the spike over to him. But with our small group now scattered, the golem once more turns it's attention back to Derkin and the militia about him, and the ribbons of metal writhe about as people are knocked senseless. Two come racing in at Derkin, who throws his hands into the folds of his ringmail covered coat..... and draws out a hand-cannon, the devious bastard.

....Yes, I know, I clearly should have coordinated with him, as he had a similar thought on how to approach this, stop back seat living, sheesh.

A second hand-cannon follows the first, and Derkin manages to get the barrels facing the incoming metal saw-ribbon-things (I know, I should ask what that is called, it's an awkward way to reference it), and with booming cannonfire he simultaneously repels the golem's attack and propels himself forward and skyward with the recoil combined with a leap, darting closer in to the Soul Grave. I'd call it rank madness, myself, with all the teeth on those arm-tentacles, but someone has to keep the right side occupied, and I'm happy it isn't me.

I actually find the opportunity to toss the spike to Derkin as he is mid-air, as his gaze locks on me in transit. He snatches the spike I lob to him out of the air swiftly, the extra cannon now held fast under his arm, and grins maliciously as he sees it. He completes his flights as he carefully grips the expanding javelin, and I know now is the time to strike with my own.

And not because one of you voices told me, either. Go me.

While Derkin slams his spike into the right arm's shoulder joint, I slam mine once more into the elbow, and we trigger both spikes at nearly the same time. We are also quick to flee as soon as we strike, and I see some measure of trust in Derkin's eyes. Excellent, by providing him with an extra weapon and assisting his attack, I believe I have secured his full cooperation, if we can get the time to share battle plans in some format.

I still see the other five militia with morphic weapons still standing, good for them.

>How many are left from the initial charge?
Right at this moment, counting myself, Derkin and my followers? 31 of 49
...Man, I am envious of those ones who can read, getting to avoid this while they read with the mage's apprentice. Got to be a cushy job, that.

The effects of our joint attack are clear. the golem's right arm is having trouble lifting it's arm to it's full range of motion, so the range of the blade tentacle stuff dropped, and my second hit on his left arm has messed up hit's elbow badly enough it can barely move the joint. It should be much easier to get in close from his left side with the arm crippled like that....

>You could go after the leg joints then, back of the knee, ankle, hip, whatever you can get.
Yeah, if the golem loses mobility, we might be able to just stay outside of effective combat range, and argue it a win by disabling? Might not work, but it also might work after all. Who knows, really, certainly not someone conversing with.... them-self, really.

....Although even if it is a crazy thought, I do have to admit that some thoughts recently have felt even odder than normal, and I could almost swear they... well, weren't my thoughts.


I know many of you can be habitual liars, I falsify a good bit myself, but what do you think, are these new voices even stranger? ...New voices, I'll take your input on this with a grain of salt.

...RIGHT. So, I am about seven feet behind the golem, to it's left, with Derkin about nine feet to my left. The others are largely clustered about the far side of the Soul Grave..... which is now turning about clockwise to attack us, it's tentacles menacing.


So what should I do?
>>
No. 172817 ID: 445c48

>Aren't my thoughts

Don't question it. They're pure fuckin' magic.
>>
No. 172819 ID: 2aaaf1

>>172817
Fuckin Mordre, how does he work?
>>
No. 172849 ID: a594b9

>>172812
You've managed to disable its arm, now work on the legs.
>>
No. 172879 ID: 95766b

If you had good reflexes along with that flexibility of yours, I would say charge in like a badass, but since you don't, retreat and wait for an opportune moment to strike.
>>
No. 172908 ID: 427807

start circling leftwards around him, getting away from the front of his front. Ideally, i think we should keep hitting the weakened left arm to make it fall to the ground, completely useless. Either that, or go for one of the legs....hmmm.... Do we have any kind of strong string-substance? Something we can wrap around the legs of mordre, so when he tried to take a step he comes crashing down
>>
No. 172925 ID: 427807

>>172908
Teehee...i have a better idea actually, ulzrick! I dare you to simply walk up to the mage mordre and utter these words: "Hey! I know that you are actually a self-aware golem doomed to be destroyed by all the nations if discovered... so yeah"
Do it! I dare you!
>>
No. 172927 ID: e31d52

>>172925
Don't listen to him, he's addled.
>>
No. 173002 ID: 427807

>>172927
addled you say? Obviously there is some reason for this perspective shift. Obviously we must be some kind of soul, or magic rift, or something that causes this sort of perspective. In fact, this and other events must prove that we are some entity that is completely separate from the soul grave Mordre. My belief is that if we test out this position with the said line to mordre, we can learn a great deal about how to implement this potential power.
>>
No. 173007 ID: e31d52

>>173002
See? Clearly mad.


Clearly.
>>
No. 173011 ID: 427807

>>173007
What do you mean?
are you for or against my argument?
>>
No. 173018 ID: 445c48

Trust me, you don't wanna talk to a soul or magic rift.
Those motherfuckers are lying, and getting you pissed.

Anyways, work on the legs and knees.
>>
No. 173019 ID: a594b9

>>173002
I spoke to Bob about this. We're not actually anything in-game, it's just that this crazy dude can hear tgchan. Explain it to him however you want.
>>
No. 173020 ID: d1210a

>>173019
[I said he could hear the posters as voices.]
>>
No. 173026 ID: d1210a

>>172849
>You've managed to disable its arm, now work on the legs.
Alright, reasonable. ....my best bet is probably the back of the knee joint, I assume you want me to do the same thing as before, jam spike in, make it big, shrink it, pull it out, all as fast as I can?

>>172879
>wait for an opportune moment to strike
Definitely going to do that, this is not a good time to just go on instinct if you can avoid it, so I'll pick a good moment, and otherwise keep my distance.

>>172908
>start circling leftwards around the golem, get away from it's front.
Wait, which left, mine or-
>Ideally, i think we should keep hitting the weakened left arm
...Okay, I get ya.

I follow after Derkin, trying to stay to the golem's back left, which seems to be the safest place we can reach. He looks at me, holding the spike in his hand with a wry look gracing his visage, but he asks no questions, and happily it seems he had the same thought, as we are both moving towards the backs of the golem's legs, spikes at the ready.

...Or we were, until something felt a bit wonky about the golem.... and it started moving about twice as fast as normal, now already spun about to face us as we still charge forward. The maimed arm and tentacles both fly into action, and I dimly perceive that two of those following me, along with one other militiamen had also charged forward, but I don't know how I'll-

>>172925
>Teehee...i have a better idea actually, ulzrick!
>I dare you to simply walk up to the mage mordre and utter these words:
>"Hey! I know that you are actually a self-aware golem doomed to be destroyed by all the nations if discovered... so yeah"
>Do it! I dare you!
Wh-
>>172927
>Don't listen to him, he's addled.
>>173002
>addled you say? Obviously there is some reason for this perspective shift.
>Obviously we must be some kind of soul, or magic rift, or something that causes this sort of perspective.
>>173007
>See? Clearly mad.
>Clearly.
>>173018
>Trust me, you don't wanna talk to a soul or magic rift.
>Those motherfuckers are lying, and getting you pissed.

I collapse to the ground under a torrent of voices, unable to properly interpret my own sense as my body goes limp.

This actually ends up saving me, as the blades that had been reaching towards me now overshoot and pass me by, and I have the chance to see Derkin springing back, having avoided the heavy club the golem's left arm has now become, and leap in between the two ribbon blades that come at him.... to then be struck by the third, the one that missed me.

The hit is grazing, deflecting off a heavily reinforced leather and ring mail coat and taking a pauldron with it, but even though he gets flung about violently he looks okay.

He doesn't manage to correct for his wild flight, and slams into the ground some distance away.

Which is when I realize I am still practically under the golem's feet and still prone on the ground.


Not that some of the things I just heard weren't distressingly important sounding, but, ah....
More pressing concerns right now, wouldn't you say?
What should I do?
>>
No. 173027 ID: e31d52

>>173026
>Pressing

>underfoot

dohoho.

And, uh, that was our intent all along, yes!

Now get the fuck behind him. Soul forges work by fixing themselves, so the surface is likely not uniform... try to climb on his back and deliver an almost-killing blow to the back of the head!

Not the front! We worked hard on that bit!
>>
No. 173028 ID: 9e335f

Dive/Roll through the legs to get to the back. It's your best bet right now. If you can, hold a spike parallel to the ground and extend it while going through. If your lucky the force will jam the spike into both legs and stop it from moving for awhile.

One more thing. If you make it out of this without a huge concussion, you should tell Mordre that you felt when the Golem went into Hyper-mode. I think you have some magical talent.
>>
No. 173029 ID: a594b9

>>173026
I wonder how Mordre would react to someone getting inside his reach?
>>
No. 173030 ID: 427807

I think its time for you to actually use your strength and flexibility... leap onto mordre's leg, then climb up his back as fast as possible. its a relatively short distance, i think you might be able to do it. once on top, proceed to bash his head and scream: "the thoughts in my head originated in your head, mordre!"
>>
No. 173031 ID: a594b9

>>173030
Ugh don't say that.
>>
No. 173032 ID: 9e335f

>>173027
Man you guys are seriously trying to get rid of Mordre in this battle. Way to remain loyal. Well if this works, we can at least make Mordre fix these weaknesses.
>>
No. 173034 ID: e31d52

>>173032
Buzzsaws. On his back. and belly. and the insides of his arms. and knees.
>>
No. 173037 ID: 445c48

Scramble under him and stab him in the knees.
>>
No. 173046 ID: d1210a

>>173027
>Now get the fuck behind him.
>>173028
>Dive/Roll through the legs to get to the back. It's your best bet right now.
>If you can, hold a spike parallel to the ground and extend it while going through.
>If your lucky the force will jam the spike into both legs and stop it from moving for awhile.
>>173030
>I think its time for you to actually use your strength and flexibility
>>173037
>stab it in the knees
...Right, now that is some commentary I can use!

I scramble up into a crouch and dive forward, grasping the spike firmly in my hands as I do so, keeping it horizontal. As my dive takes me between the golem's legs, I trigger the javelin, the two points slamming against the insides of the metal knees on either side of me, one side managing to catch in the joint, the other simply gouging a hole into the leg itself. Huh, I guess having it properly braced when it expands really helps it dig in.

I swing my legs forward as I keep my hands locked upon the javelin, and I spin about the now immobile pole I grip, wrenching the ends about in the golem's legs rather nicely with my shifting weight, as I get to the (relative) safety of the golem's back.

Now what? It would be nice to know what I should do before I retract the jav-

>Soul forges work by fixing themselves, so the surface is likely not uniform... try to climb on his back and deliver an almost-killing blow to the back of the head!
>leap onto mordre's leg, then climb up his back as fast as possible. its a relatively short distance, i think you might be able to do it.
...Okay, let's go with that.

I deactivate the spike as my body continues upward on momentum, and I scrabble at the air to twist myself about. I get myself facing the golem's back in time.... only to find it polished smooth, mocking me with it's featureless, gleaming surface. I smack against the golem's back like an idiot, and rebound to land on the ground in a daze. I scramble backwards even as my vision stays blurred from the impact, but the golem doesn't pursue. As sight returns to me, I see why: It's right knee is now just as immobilized as it's arm, making it's mobility laughable.

...Okay, it looks like it's focusing on everyone else for the moment since they are all in front of it and conveniently in reach of the golem.... what the hell were you all going on about before? Stuff about the golem being aware, thoughts being mad (which I resent, that means we're all mad voices, not cool), magic rifts, wandering souls... I would just call you crazy, loathe as I am to use the term, but.... you new voices DO feel different.


You all want to try explaining all this to me right now while I catch a breather?
>>
No. 173054 ID: e31d52

Well, it's kinda hard to explain, my good man. But, ah... Mordre will be angry if you tell him you know. He'll also know who told on him. So... unless we give you some sorta clear on it, don't pipe up.

Mordre is a sentient golem. However, he's not evil or anything, he's just out to revenge Mosmordre. He won't kill anyone who doesn't get in his way, and enjoys rewarding those who help him. Be a great enough ally, and he may risk his artificial life to save you. He has in the past.
>>
No. 173059 ID: 427807

We, ourselves, are not completely sure of our position in this world...in our world, we are a scattered bunch of people who devote themselves to something called the internet, basically think of it as a global information highway.
You may want to find a chance to speak to mordre in private after this about this current situation. Likely, we will leave your head once this practice battle is over. Thus we will recognize and act positively towards you confronting mordre about this. Though i do think mordre has some thoughts of his own. hmm... perhaps what we are now is the leftover soul of the original controller of the soul grave now known as mordre. something must have gone wonky, resulting in our continues control over mordre, only from inside of him instead of outside... interesting.
>>
No. 173152 ID: 9e335f

Great, now we have to crush him. Thanks a lot guys.
>>
No. 173167 ID: 8843e6

I swear to god, I will destroy this man's mind if I have to. I am not letting our plan for vengeance be put at risk, do you hear me? I will cold-boot this meat-sack's head and rewrite his personality like a floppy. Either we stop this disloyalty, or he is going to have a data explosion induced aneurysm. Do you hear me?
>>
No. 173174 ID: 427807

>>173167
I hear, but i don't understand why? what is so scary about letting a few followers know our true nature? If anything bad does happen, such as someone decides to take the news and run away to other local authorities, we are more then capable of taking them out

ps. black bars dont make you cooler
>>
No. 173180 ID: 275a5d

>>173174
[The issue isn't a few followers knowing it, it's the fact that you guys exposed it to RANDOM MILITIAMAN NUMBER 2 at the first opportunity.

Literally the ONLY saving grace to this bit of meta is that the guys certifiably insane. On that note:]

Yep, Mordre's actually a sentient golem. He can also shed his 12th layer of metal exoskeleton to become 20 feet taller and develop the ability to bring eternal happiness to all in existence, so long as he manages to reach the galactic standard age of maturity for the peoples of Ramus Prime. No other Raman has managed this before! WoooOOOoooOOooo
>>
No. 173194 ID: bbdfae

>>173167
I'm with this guy. Focus on the immediate problems before us, like overcoming this golem in combat, rather than seizing this opportunity of spread wild tales.

So no, we don't want to explain shit while he catches a breather. Start moving closer to the golem while staying somewhere it can't see, and wait for the appropriate moment to strike. See if the others you gave morphic weapons are still standing; if so, get them to join you.
>>
No. 173196 ID: 427807

>>173180
This guy isnt some random fuck, though. firstly, he has a name. random fucks never have names, thats elementary. this guy has something wonky with his brain, obviously, as he is the first to answer back at our comments. Thus giving him bullshit information could never help us, as all we'd be doing is making some crazy guy even more schizophrenic. I dont think schizophrenics would perform well in a fight against a soul grave...
>>
No. 173200 ID: 9e335f

OK then. Now time to be impressive! Grab the Axe and swing it as hard as you can at into the back of the Golem's knee.
>>
No. 173208 ID: 275a5d

>>173196
[He's a random new guy until such time as he's been properly developed, which quite frankly isn't going to happen in 2-3 posts of one scene of one thread. Even Derkin and Mingsk have had significantly longer than that. Regardless, this tangent is pointless at this time, as now we are trying to get him through this combat without severe injury.]

Alright, what do our Numbers look like? If its mobility is impaired, we may be able to just stay out of its' reach until the time limit on this fight expires. That was the main goal, afterwards, and while we're usually ALL for "charging in and being the hero" (HAHAHA), I'd rather we just sit back and enjoy the fruits of our labor and NOT go back within reach of that thing, don't you Ulzrick?
>>
No. 173218 ID: d1210a

>>173054
>Well, it's kinda hard to explain, my good man.
Take your time, I don't want to feel that out of the loop mid-combat again. Just don't throw the thoughts at me too fast, it's a bit... off-putting.
>But, ah... Mordre will be angry if you tell him you know.
? ...Wait, so when you were talking about the golem bein-
>Mordre is a sentient golem. However, he's not evil or anything, he's just out to revenge Mosmordre. He won't kill anyone who doesn't get in his way, and enjoys rewarding those who help him. Be a great enough ally, and he may risk his artificial life to save you. He has in the past.
I find that rather hard to believe, my understanding places it as nearly impossible to achieve on purpose since the fall of the Mosmordren Empire, let alone that it would happen to be here, and that one of you all would know this. ....But you do say this with complete conviction. Wha-
>>173152
>Great, now we have to crush him. Thanks a lot guys.
Wait, I don-
>>173180
>Yep, Mordre's actually a sentient golem. He can also shed his 12th layer of metal exoskeleton to become 20 feet taller and develop the ability to bring eternal happiness to all in existence, so long as he manages to reach the galactic standard age of maturity for the peoples of Ramus Prime. No other Raman has managed this before! WoooOOOoooOOooo
........Got it, you all are some of the, ah.... fun voices. Fine. If you wouldn't mind keeping that down for now, it's hard enough to fight without parts of my own mind trying to convince me of some alternate reality, okay?

>>173194
>Focus on the immediate problems before us, like overcoming this golem in combat, rather than seizing this opportunity of spread wild tales.
Okay, that sounds like a better use of my time.
>>173200
>Grab the Axe and swing it as hard as you can at into the back of the Golem's knee.
...Uh, not to be a worry wort about this, but the injury I inflicted is on the inside of the golem's leg, and that would be awkward as all get out to reach with an axe. That, and when I used the axe last, I barely left a scuff mark, the only injuries I've inflicted were with expanding javelins. ....Which would mean I could possibly do the same with the axe in it's hatchet form. Should I do that? I might be able to get in a good hit.... but with the golem moving faster now, I wonder about how well I'd fare trying to close range again...
>>173208
>Alright, what do our numbers look like?
Let's see... ah, only one of my followers is still standing now, along with Derkin... counting everyone, 17 of the original 49 still stand.
>If its mobility is impaired,
It definitely is, I've seen it mostly just pivot about the damaged leg, the joint not shifting overmuch.
>We may be able to just stay out of its' reach until the time limit on this fight expires. That was the main goal, afterward, and I'd rather we just sit back and enjoy the fruits of our labor and NOT go back within reach of that thing.
...You know what, I think I'll just go with that for the moment. I continue to keep my distance, adhering to the wording the mage gave us for this spar (I hope my choice to bring in outside weapons doesn't backfire if I have to explain myself afterward). I watch our numbers dwindle.... sixteen.... oh, two at once, now fourteen.... thirteen... eleven... ah, there goes the last of my followers, the poleaxes didn't seem that useful, maybe I should have gone with more spik-wow, three at once, seven now, Derkin's still about.....And a couple of the big armored northerners the mage brought scowl at me in disapproval. Hey, not all of us are suicidal war gluttons. ...Wait, that wasn't one of my thoughts, forget about it. Moving on....

...I see the golem's left arm moving with restored freedom, it's range of motion recovering as time passes.... an appraisal of the right shoulder and knee show similar changes slowly being wrought. Seriously, this thing has enough time to fix itself during a long fight? Completely unfair.


So, should I continue hanging back, or should I attempt to pile more impairments onto the golem, and go for it's knee with the axe or the spike? Or hey, if you all have other ideas, there's that too, all in all you've been largely helpful today, so I'll give you an ear.
>>
No. 173221 ID: b14128

>>173218
Mage Modre is using magic, it seems. And... Hang back you say. Let's think about what would happen if you did that: if you give him more time to repair himself, you'll be facing an undamaged soul grave, who won't tire out like you can, at a point where he's possibly going to start picking out individual targets to go after.

Sounds appealing, don't it?

Yeah, best get in there before he's back up to full strength, and damage his mobility again. Spike his knee, mate.
>>
No. 173245 ID: 59b75b

O.K then. This will be rough. The time it got to repair itself is going to make this bad for you so we have to move fast and take some risks.
Dash forward with all the weapons in their tiny forms. Slam the spikes into the back of the damaged leg and extend-retract em both, then grab the hatchet and stick it in the hole and EXPAND!!!
I have to warn you Mordre ain't no fool and he will probably sense your metal coming so prepare for a twitch course correction during the dash forward. If you can get to the back of his legs, you should have more safety.
>>
No. 173276 ID: 445c48

Delicious joints you must spike them
>>
No. 173281 ID: d1210a

>>173221
>Mage Mordre is using magic, it seems.
I know, totally sucks.
>Hang back you say. Let's think about what would happen if you did that: if you give him more time to repair himself, you'll be facing an undamaged soul grave, who won't tire out like you can, at a point where he's possibly going to start picking out individual targets to go after.
I would point out that the goal is to simply last as long as we can, and that keeping my distance let me catch a breather while avoiding undue risk, but with less than ten people still moving.... I have to agree with you.
>Yeah, best get in there before he's back up to full strength, and damage his mobility again. Spike his knee, mate.
>>173276
>Delicious joints you must spike them
Right, back into the fray. I start trotting forward as I settle on how I shall approach this.
>>173245
>This will be rough. The time it got to repair itself is going to make this bad for you so we have to move fast and take some risks.
Not exactly what I wanted to hear, but at this point I have to agree with you. You got any specifics?
>Dash forward with all the weapons in their tiny forms. Slam the spikes into the back of the damaged leg and extend-retract em both, then grab the hatchet and stick it in the hole and EXPAND!!!
...Okay, other than the fact I tossed the extra spike to Derkin earlier, I can do that... sounds a bit risky, though....
>I have to warn you Mordre ain't no fool and he will probably sense your metal coming so prepare for a twitch course correction during the dash forward. If you can get to the back of his legs, you should have more safety.
...Well, at least you seem to have compensated for the blasted new speediness the golem's displaying.

I dash forward, hefting a now tiny axe in one hand, a firmly gripped spike in another, keeping my feet wide and stance low, staying as nimble as I can manage as I close the distance. This cautionary tactic proves useful, as I manage to juke by a metal ribbon that flicks out at me as I approach, getting in range unscathed. I swing both weapons as harshly as I can, wedging them into the backs of the Soul Grave's knees just as I trigger them, and my efforts are rewarded with the sound of warping metal. The spike pierces the left knee, while the axe carves a channel in the right knee, compounding the damage still left over from earlier.

I manage to pull the spike back without issue, but some portion of the golem's weight shifted in the attack, and the axe remains stuck even as I shrink it, clamped in place. ...I wonder though, if I braced myself I could probably yank it out.... On the other hand, I still don't know how the mage will use this Soul Grave when there's someone this close to it's back for long.... I'm a wee bit scared of being crushed flat and lifeless here.

A quick glance forward shows Derkin and three other militia still desperately fending off the golem's attacks..... and losing ground.


What should I do?
>>
No. 173288 ID: 59b75b

Problem is I don't know what he will do either at this point, but I do know what would happen if you were elsewhere and trust me, this uncertainty is better.

Well then I am really out of super Ideas at this point, but I got one that will help everybody if you can pull it off.
Take a running leap upwards(grammar doesn't sound right), using the axe handle as a jumping platform, then ram the spike into the Golem's arm and extend it so that it pierces it's side, and LEAVE it there. With your flexibility and strength you should be able to pull this off, though after all this I think your stamina will be lacking.
Best case scenario, it causes the range of motion for the tentacle arm to drop only to the extra reach the tentacles give.
Worst case, he snaps it like a plaything and takes you all out.
>>
No. 173301 ID: 445c48

Expand the axe again, then leave it, and spike the right elbow
>>
No. 173314 ID: 2a0f1d

>>173301

This sounds good. After doing these things, retreat and asses the situation. By the way, how's your fatigue? Considering your stamina, it may become a serious problem soon.
>>
No. 173329 ID: d1210a

>>173301
>Expand the axe again, then leave it
Got it, re-triggered and already scaled back up with the sound of some more metal squealing. Well, that took all of a fraction of an instant, now what?

>>173288
>Problem is I don't know what he will do either at this point, but I do know what would happen if you were elsewhere and trust me, this uncertainty is better.
....Yeah, I saw how much hurt this hunk of metal dished out when we took this place, I do NOT want to be on the receiving end of that, thanks. So, sounds like we are staying at the back for now then?
>Take a running leap and jump upwards using the axe handle as a jumping platform, then ram the spike into the Golem's arm and extend it so that it pierces it's side, and LEAVE it there. With your flexibility and strength you should be able to pull this off.
...I like this.

I follow the voices suggestion, images of a bird of prey flitting past my vision as I tense my legs to leap onto the axe handle While immobile, the target is fairly small, and for a moment I am assaulted by paranoid whispers that I shall miss, and split myself open, a multitude of gruesome scenes involving my pointless death bombarding me.

Through the haze of what I resolutely tell myself are just my own delusions, I feel a foot land on the handle, and reality snaps back into place. I throw as much of my strength as I can behind my second leap, hurling myself skyward.... with the strength behind my jump more than sufficient for me to reach my target. I shove the spike in between the golem's right arm and it's body, triggering it before my momentum carries me past.

The javelin erupts into being, the Soul Grave's right arm shuddering as the javelin anchors in it... and the golem's side. As my hands continue to grip the now immobile bar, the metal construct begins to whip it's shoulders around, in some attempt to either throw me or inspect it's assailant. Having noted that staying out of this thing's line of sight has been a stellar tactic so far, I heave myself away, whizzing through the air along a path I had not quite expected. I crash to the ground, banging my knees rather sharply against the packed dirt, but in the interest of avoiding worse injuries I ignore it and bounce up, opening more distance as I do. I note that I landed near Derkin, with two other militia present.... and no one else standing. Great. Derkin snaps off a cavalier grin, and decides to lighten the mood.

"Well hey, at least the Sable Executioners pinned down, and we're getting near to the end."

The golem wrenches it's arm free from it's side, one of the Sable Executioner's blades tugging free the javelin and holding it aloft for momentary inspection before discarding the weapon. Derkin's cavalier attitude begins to wear thin, and I pay more attention to the slump of his shoulders and his forceful breathing: His acrobatics in all that armor have cost him.

"...Okay, scratch that. I don't suppose anyone has any ideas? How about you, sir sticky-hands?"

I assume he means me. And I only borrowed a couple things...

>>173314
>By the way, how's your fatigue? Considering your stamina, it may become a serious problem soon.
Actually, I'm doing good on that. Even with fighting smart to reduce exertion, I was getting a bit winded a while ago, but I had at least a minute or two to catch my breath while I.... tactically withheld myself from the fight, and I've only done a bit since then. So right now, I'd estimate I feel fresher than everyone else standing, thanks to economical investment of energy and a break. ....I do note that since I already have exerted myself in a few brief but extreme moments, so I may have issues with prolonged exertion.

Well, as Derkin noted we are coming close to the conclusion of this match from an objective-based standpoint... as well as being on the brink of annihilation. So either way, it will be over soon. ....And I also note that the golem isn't just looking at me now and then anymore, it's eyes are positively locked on me. So...... could use your help right now, as silly me, I'm having a little trouble planning while faced with a giant metal monster. But hey, I have you all, so there's that.


Ideas?
>>
No. 173336 ID: 9e335f
File 127294795726.jpg - (44.04KB , 640x480 , shikamaru.jpg )
173336

If this were a real fight, I would say that the odds are against you and it may be time to opt for a strategic surrender. Better to live to escape and fight another day than to die for pride or something else in most cases.
Unless of course anyone else has a brilliant idea...
>>
No. 173337 ID: 9e335f

>>173336
Post slightly changed
>>
No. 173341 ID: b14128

>>173336
I agree. But, there are some things worth dying for, and it'd be foolish to deny the (Admittedly small) possbility we may be fighting for such a cause sooner or later, so let's play on the assumption that this is the case for this 'Imaginary' situation and give it our all.

Away, back down to business: Yeah, no awesome stratagems are coming to mind. There arn't enough people to 'feint' with, cover our own attack, and Mage Modre's attention is pretty fully on us, so...

...Hrm. Actually, one idea does come to mind... Probably won't like it though: We're the freshest of our companions, have done a good deal of damage, and Mage Modre's attention is fully on us. I say this is our opportunity to return the favor and be the distraction for our companions.

Yes, it doesn't sound appealing, but out of the few options we've got, because we certainly can't win in a front up fight, so it seems the best course of action in a deciedly suboptimal situation. Give our buddies a chance to catch their breath, get in sneak of their own. Our stamina is bad, but the fight is close to its end anyway, so hopefully our endurance can hold out long enough until the battle 'Times out'.

So, quietly note to the other three who Mage Modre is currently focusing on, and that you plan to use that to your advantage to distract our opponent and allow them to act. Then step forward, start trying to cricle around him. Maybe while your friends just stay where they are... If they don't do anything, Mage Modre might be even more prone to 'Forgetting' about them and not consider the chance we're trying to give them a chance to sneak attack, while simutaniously letting them get in a quick breather. Sound good?
>>
No. 173348 ID: 2aaaf1

>>173329
Alright buddy, you got one chance to make this plan work. Convince Derkin to give you his coat, then tell him to retrieve the javelins and axe by any means necessary. Once Derkin retrieves the morphic weapons you will split it up as follows: Derkin will hold the axe, and the javelins will be held by the militiamen. You are going to charge headfirst towards Mordre holding the mail coat, do not put it on. The two militia will follow in after you and wait to strike, Derkin will be just behind them waiting to get inside Mordre's guard. Now, this part is IMPORTANT so listen up: Wait for Mordre to retract the Sable Executioner before you engage him. When he does, charge him and slip the mail coat over his claws. This will leave the arm open so the two militiamen can run in and spike the javelins into the elbow joint as many times as they can, if they are in any trouble of getting knocked out, tell them to retreat and toss the javelins back so you can continue to make use of them. Derkin's chance will come when Mordre will inevitably attack our unguarded side with his siege fist. Tell Derkin to wedge the axe into the siege fist's wrist joint and then get everyone the hell out of there. Now if the battle isn't by this point, surrender. If disabling his two primary weapons while surviving as a team isn't good enough to qualify as a win, I don't know what to tell you.
>>
No. 173354 ID: b14128

>>173341
Oh, and, uh... Damn it, either my memory is going bad, or we don't have any weapons left on us. We embedded all our morphic stuff in the golem Um... Ok, hey, how far away did he toss that javelin? Do you think you can get it back and rearm yourself? The fact the morphic axe is still screwing up the golem's knee might allow you to do so without too much issue.
>>
No. 173371 ID: 427807

>>173348
pretty solid plan, except for one gaping problem: there is no way in hell the metal coat is going to be able to hole the three black steel blades of the sable executioner. The difference in strength between normal steel and black steel leads me to believe the coat will be simply torn to shreds if we try this.
>>
No. 173386 ID: 275a5d

>>173329

Exactly, sir Ulzrick. Our prior withholding of support WAS to witness how the Golem moved and reacted to different stimuli. Quite strategic of us.

At least, that's what we'll tell anyone who asks.

Now, as to what to do.

"Well, I think I've got one more idea. See that axe I've got embedded in the back of it's knee?

If I get the golem turned around to face me, you think you got it in you to drive that thing further into the joint with a kick or something?"

Also, does Derkin have any rounds left for hte cannons?
>>
No. 173421 ID: d1210a

>>173336
>If this were a real fight, I would say that the odds are against you and it may be time to opt for a strategic surrender. Better to live to escape and fight another day than to die for pride or something else in most cases.
Well, as this is a sparring session about enduring, I think we are supposed to keep fighting till the end.... but now that I think about it, the mage never specified. ....Yes, I know, he probably left it vague on purpose. Anyway, should I surrender then?
>Unless of course anyone else has a brilliant idea...
>>173341
>I agree. But, there are some things worth dying for, and it'd be foolish to deny the (Admittedly small) possibility we may be fighting for such a cause sooner or later, so let's play on the assumption that this is the case for this 'Imaginary' situation and give it our all.
Alright, I'm sold, we're in this till the end... unless said end is me squaring off against the golem without any support, forget that.
>...Hrm. Actually, one idea does come to mind... Probably won't like it though: We're the freshest of our companions, have done a good deal of damage, and Mage Mordre's attention is fully on us. I say this is our opportunity to return the favor and be the distraction for our companions.
..Yeesh, you're right, I don't like it.... and I also can't dispute the logic behind it. ....Dammit. What's the plan, specifically?

>>173348
>Convince Derkin to give you his coat, then tell him to retrieve the javelins and axe by any means necessary.
...Ah, Derkin still has the spike I tossed him.... but beyond that, the axe is dodgy at best to reclaim, and the extra javelin is on the far side of the golem from us. But hey, better than nothing....
>You are going to charge headfirst towards Mordre holding the mail coat, do not put it on.
Uh....
>>173371
>pretty solid plan, except for one gaping problem: there is no way in hell the metal coat is going to be able to hole the three black steel blades of the sable executioner. The difference in strength between normal steel and black steel leads me to believe the coat will be simply torn to shreds if we try this.
..Yeah, I was going to say I saw those blades it has at work, and I doubt the coat would stop them for more than a few moments. Still, can't really argue with the feint idea, it seems the best thing we have available right now. Alright, any other suggestions to the feint plan?

>>173386
>Our prior withholding of support WAS to witness how the Golem moved and reacted to different stimuli. Quite strategic of us.
Oh, how ni-
>At least, that's what we'll tell anyone who asks.
...Well, you're providing a cover for me, so I can't complain.
>Now, as to what to do.
You have my attention.
>"Well, I think I've got one more idea. See that axe I've got embedded in the back of it's knee? If I get the golem turned around to face me, you think you got it in you to drive that thing further into the joint with a kick or something?"
What? ...OH, I'm supposed to say this to Derkin, right.
>Also, does Derkin have any rounds left for the cannons?
I'll ask.

"Well, I do have another idea. Ah, first, you still have that spike?"
"Yeah."
"Okay, and how are the cannons doing?"
"If we had another minute, I think both would be ready again for another salvo, but right now they're dead weight."
"Okay, well then: See that axe I wedged in the golem's leg?"
"Yeah."
"The golem is focused on me right now, I'm going to distract it, try to turn it's back to you. Can you either kick the axe further into the injury, or something to that effect? The legs been hit twice, if we keep up the pressure we might immobilize it."

Derkin considers my words for a moment as he contorts his face, but with a nod he tosses the extra spike to one of the two remaining other militia, and looks to me expectantly.

Well, now or never.

I dash forward, veering off to the golem's left, away from the blade tentacles, already feeling a tightening sensation in my chest as I exert myself. Stupid stress making fatigue build faster....

The golem turns as I approach, trying to shelter it's left side from my approach, clearly thinking of the impairments I've given it time and again when it took it's gaze off me. A blade tentacle sweep out at my upper torso and I drop low to dodge it, before having to do a jumping tumble to avoid the low-swinging arm that careens towards me, but I scrabble to my feet and stay mobile. ...Really good thing the militia armor is only padded cloth and boiled leather, it doesn't weigh me down nearly as much as I thought it would, and it seems to me that a mobile target that constantly seeks to enter the Soul Grave's blind spots gives it some trouble. That, and these expanding weapons do a surprisingly good job when measured up against golems, I wonder if-

I snap out of my reverie as a heavy backhand swing soars towards me, with two tentacles following suit. Considering they come from three different angles.... I doubt I can escape this. Crap, I hate being in front of this thing. My only glimmer of hope arrives as I spot Derkin leaping into the air, his feet hurtling straight towards the exposed axe handle sticking out of the back of Mordre's knee. His full weight slams into the haft, violently wrenching the axe free from the back of the Soul Grave's knee and sending the weapon careening through the air. The axe's violently exit from it's prior location reveals a even further worsened injury, and the golem's leg collapses further, it's hips shifting from misplaced weight as Derkin reaches for the still tumbling great axe aloft beside him... or he does, until his armor jerks backwards, roughly hurling him some thirty feet away to slam into the ground for a brutal, tumbling stop. The great axe sinks into the ground it's handle thrust skyward some few feet away from our foe.

...Nothing touched Derkin, what the hell? ...Although I could almost swear I felt.... something when he went flying.... hmm.

During Derkin's distraction, I also spotted the two other militia charging forward, the spike clutched in their hands. But rather than ignore them, the golem spins about at breakneck speeds, it's arm barely missing me as it throws an absentminded blow in my direction. ...I also note it spun about it's right leg as a pivot point, and that I distinctly heard the squeal of metal during the movement.

I do not stay to watch the militia fall, as I hold no weapon that could even faze that which stands before me....

...But with the golem's attention once more off me, I manage to grab two of the morphic poleaxes (One a heavy spear, the other a bardiche) from the fallen (Those who followed me are proving most useful in their defeat. Interesting), and as I heft both weapons, I consider my options, some eight feet behind the golem's back, it's arms poised to assault the two militia charging it still some ten feet away. Derkin seems to be groggily getting to his feet, but he seems to be having issues with his balance. As to my own condition, my breathing feels a bit strained, but there is no disputing this is endgame, I have no problem with using everything I have left. Time to shine, all that.


What should I do?
>>
No. 173424 ID: 427807

motion to derkin to strike now while attention is on the other two militiamen. Have him jump in an try to mess up with the golems functions. wait for him to finish his little jumping raid, then move in and start one of your own. Im thinking its time for some matrix-style, bullet-time jump fighting
>>
No. 173427 ID: 275a5d

>>173421
Hmm, here's an idea you might like, though it's up to you to pull it off.

You have two long polearm morphic weapons. The Bardiche is going to be your cleaving implement, as it has more weight at the end and is going to probably be shorter than the heavy spear.

It's leg is already compromised, so our last gambit should be to further exploit this building weakness. Use the spear first, activate it as you jam it through the middle of it's legs. Embed the tip in the dirt, and use the grip as a lever to put as much strength as you can against the back of the crippled legjoint.

BE READY TO MOVE IF IT LOOKS LIKE ITS GOING TO FALL ONTO YOU. THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE PLAN.

If we can get it onto the ground and exacerbate the leg injury, we can use the bardiche to inflict a final parting shot.
>>
No. 173428 ID: 275a5d

Time to shine, Ulzrick. You and Derkin are already the MVP's of this combat. Let's see if we can't at least go out on a good note.
>>
No. 173435 ID: 59b75b

Well bull, Mordre is directly using Magic against you now, I was wondering when he would...

This will likely be your last approach. Keep to the left side of the Golem as you approach, we need to keep as far away from the blades as possible.
After that this >>173427 and then roll and grab the axe. Lastly swing the axe into the other leg and expand it.

Remember to watch out for attacks.
>>
No. 173485 ID: d1210a

>>173424
>motion to Derkin to strike now while attention is on the other two militiamen.
...Okay, except he's possibly concussed, some thirty feet from the golem, so.... not exactly useful just right now. He does seem set on reentering combat, so there is that, bt that will take more time than it will for myself or the militia to make contact with the golem.

>>173428
>Time to shine, Ulzrick. You and Derkin are already the MVP's of this combat. Let's see if we can't at least go out on a good note.
...I don't like the implied finality in this comment, but if you have a plan, I don't mind.

....You guys do have a plan, right?

>>173427
>Hmm, here's an idea you might like, though it's up to you to pull it off.
Not like your other ideas didn't have risks, and I'm still here. Lay it on me.
>You have two long polearm morphic weapons. The Bardiche is going to be your cleaving implement, as it has more weight at the end and is going to probably be shorter than the heavy spear.
Your observation is accurate, the spear tops out at nine feet, the bardiche at a bit over six. ...Sorry, go on.
>It's leg is already compromised, so our last gambit should be to further exploit this building weakness. Use the spear first, activate it as you jam it through the middle of it's legs. Embed the tip in the dirt, and use the grip as a lever to put as much strength as you can against the back of the crippled legjoint.
...Ah, wouldn't that-
>BE READY TO MOVE IF IT LOOKS LIKE ITS GOING TO FALL ONTO YOU. THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE PLAN.
Well at least you are aware of the dangers of giant masses of metal crushing things, especially things like me. ...Alright, I'll do it, this will only get harder as more of my allies fall. I deactivate the bardiche and stow it in the sash about my waist, placing both hands firmly on the spear. I swallow the knot of unease obstructing my breathing, and beat my mind into a precious, transient moment of clear lucidity, the errant thoughts that constantly plague me vanishing, just for a moment. I feel so relaxed now that I am almost surprised when I start charging, not a single iota of hesitance evidenced in my actions.

I watch the militia as I charge the Soul Grave's back, and I see them desperately ducking and weaving in a mad bid to stay untouched, but a particularly deceptive use of the Sable Executioner claims one of the militia, dropping in an unconscious lump as he is knocked senseless. But the other does not slow, and keeps her hands firmly wrapped about her weapon.

>Wait, her?
What, you know the militia is drawn from the whole of the adult population of the Republic of Trepany, thus meaning the term 'militiamen' is technically inaccurate, right? ...I think that's Ellorika, she's go-

I realize my precious lucidity is slipping, and snap my focus back to the golem. I see the spear head nearing the point I desired betwixt the golem's legs, and I tip it earthward, ramming it's point deep into the soil with the momentum of my charge, even as I shift my angle to start straining against the now anchored shaft I hold. I slam all my strength and effort into the back of the golem's right knee, straight into the mass of twisted metal.... and the leg begins to buckle, around the time silvery spots swim in my vision and I feel light headed from the strain. I see the attacks against Ellorika slow as the mage Mordre's attention now turns to the balance issues the golem is having, and the resolute militia member charges straight in, darting low with the spike held like a dagger, and thrusts it upward into the Soul Grave's pelvic joint as she activates it, right above the right leg.

With Ellorika's added efforts, the golem's tenuous balance crumbles, and the body starts to fall....right towards me.

Good thing I was watching out for that.

I dart forward, trying to slip past the falling bulk, an-
>roll and grab the axe. Lastly swing the axe into the other leg and expand it.
-And I grab the great axe resting on the ground, shrinking it as I roll away from the falling mass of metal, tossing the bardiche to Ellorika as I heft the hatchet in my hand. She follows my example, and as the golem slams into the ground, we both raise the weapons high, ready to further cripple it.

>Remember to watch out for attacks.
? OHCRAP

I leap backwards while interposing the axe between myself and the Sable Executioner tendrils that come racing at me, and I deflect what would have been a finishing blow. .....Damn, now that the golem lies prone, it's tentacles have an even easier time covering it's legs. I watch Ellorika, just a touch too slow, be swatted aside like a gnat, as the golem struggles to rise with it's damaged limbs, her bardiche falling to the ground near the golem. Derkin, finally recuperated, comes to stand beside me as we consider Ellorika, clearly unconscious, knocked out of the fight.

And then there were two,
Just two warriors still standing,
Just two still ready to challenge Mordre.


What should I do?
>>
No. 173491 ID: 716eb0

I think that might be enough good sir. An important difference between sparring and a real fight is knowing when to stop. You are tired to the point of collapse, and a decisive blow has been struck. Duels often end when one combatant has been knocked down, yes? Mordre is going to have to expend considerable effort repairing his golem already, and tired as you are, you risk getting seriously injured if his attention is on you now.

Sit down on the ground and catch your breath.
>>
No. 173497 ID: 59b75b

Dang straight! You have done well and right about now I can't see a good way of approaching this situation.
Ask Derkin if he has any bright ideas, if he says no, then sit down and have a breather, out of reach of course. Hopefully the guns are ready by now.
>>
No. 173527 ID: 427807

Have derkin run in and try to pummel mordre's head while you sit back and catch your breath. His hand cannons should be ready by now, actually. Hmm... motion to him to toss you both of his cannons so we can take some crack shots at mordre from a distance while derkin closes the distance.
since there are only two of you left to fight mordre, you should totally make it so that you outlast derkin in this sparring match! Derkin is kind of a douche, and think of how much respect you'll gain for outperforming him. However, don't be obvious in your scheme; stay back and let mordre take derkin out, rather then interfering and try to impede derkin.
>>
No. 173540 ID: 9e335f

>>173527
Wow, man, just wow.
Don't listen to him, he is one of the crazy voices.

Tell Derkin to ditch the the coat. It's more harm than good at this point
>>
No. 173601 ID: e31d52

Idea posted in discussion, please consider so we can act after this battle directly.
>>
No. 173605 ID: 275a5d

I agree that we should not be sabotaging our compatriots. Its not exactly a gleaming mark of glory when you betray your allies in a TEAM-BASED EXERCISE.

I'm going to second the "Confer with Derkin" because honestly, you guys are banged up and I don't think you have the stamina to continue this for very long.

If neither of you have any ideas, you can call out to Mordre:

"Sir Mordre, was this supposed to go until we're all unconscious, or until we can't fight anymore?

Because I'll be honest, that golem of yours is a right tough bastard, and I think the two of us are just about at that point."
>>
No. 173732 ID: 8c06b9

Yeah, I think this might be the outer edge for what's acceptable in a sparring match. The soul grave is crippled, after all, and it might not do to damage it further. Try calling out to Mage Modre and asking if he wishes to continue the match. ...Also, (And ask Derkin quick o make sure this is true,) add that the cannons have reloaded by now, so you could simply stand back and just blast at his head or something while he lays prone if this were a real fight, and that that would likely be enough to finish him off, or at least do enough damage that you both could preform a coup de grace.
>>
No. 173791 ID: 275a5d

>>173732
The handguns aren't going to really do anything to a soul grave, to be honest, and it can protect itself with magnetomancy, so thats something of an empty threat.
>>
No. 173803 ID: 427807

>>173540
*rolls eyes*
really, and your post is just SO much more helpful.
>>
No. 173834 ID: b14128

>>173540
Seconding this. With magnetomancy being flung around, metal armor is worse than useless.

>>173791
Fair enough. Still, the golem -has- been crippled, which -would- make it a lot easier to finish it off; Since its prone, they could hack at its head now if they wanted to. So the overall point is the same.
>>
No. 173836 ID: d1210a

>>173527
>Hmm, Derkin's hand cannons should be ready by now, actually.
That is a very poignant observation.

"Hey Derkin, I figure your shooters are ready again."

"Huh? ..Well, what do you know."

"And look at that, you have two of them."

"Indeed I do."

As Derkin tosses me one of the shooters, these miniature cannons, we both align our guns on the relatively immobile and rather large target before us. I was on the infiltration team when this arcanoworks was taken, and I have some experience with these weapons. The weapon rests heavily in my arms, and when we fire, snapping off our shots as swiftly as we sight them, the recoil is brutal, and I end up nearly knocked on the ground, despite having braced myself. Our shots soar forward.... and veer off, their paths oddly curving away from the golem as the projectiles decelerate, and finally drop to the ground. ....Man, those mages....

I turn to Derkin to see what we should do, and find him prone on the ground.

>Crap, I think he really DID get concussed earlier. And if he's tired on top of that, the recoil... well it looks like it knocked him out.
>Oh really? ...Wow, I think you're right.
What?

...Well then.
And then there was one.

[SECRET BONUS 004 DISCOVERED: LAST ONE STANDING]
>--requisites: In the spar against Mordre, the player controlled character must be the last standing of all those opposing Mordre.
>--BONUS KNOWLEDGE: Character (Ulzrick) is now known to have an innate predisposition and affinity for Will magic, currently untapped and unknown to the character. Arkus would be unable to teach him as Arkus has not yet learned enough of Will magic's function to tap it. Mordre, however, could teach him, as Will magic is Mordre's current specialty.
>--BONUS KNOWLEDGE: Character (Ulzrick) is compatible with Jojo's Souldreaming magic, and could learn from the Premen, should the language barrier be breached.

>And then there was one. ...Pff, HA!
....Fine, make fun of me for trying to psych myself up with dramatic thoughts. So, anything? Any ideas on what to do now?

>>173491
>I think that might be enough good sir.
>An important difference between sparring and a real fight is knowing when to stop.
>Duels often end when one combatant has been knocked down, yes?
>Mordre is going to have to expend considerable effort repairing his golem already, and tired as you are, you risk getting seriously injured if his attention is on you now.
Are you sure? I mean, I don't WANT to get hit, but there is still some time left....
>>173497
>You have done well and right about now I can't see a good way of approaching this situation.
>>173605
>call out to Mordre:
>"Sir Mordre, was this supposed to go until we're all unconscious, or until we can't fight anymore? Because I'll be honest, that golem of yours is a right tough bastard, and I don't think there is much I can do at this point."
>>173732
>Yeah, I think this might be the outer edge for what's acceptable in a sparring match.
>The Soul Grave is crippled, after all, and it might not do to damage it further.
>Try calling out to Mage Mordre and asking if he wishes to continue the match.
...You know what, I'm tired, I'll go with it.

"Ah.... excuse me, mage Mordre? I don't think there is anything I can do at this point, and we did manage to knock you down, so could we end it here?"

The golem finally manages to reach a seated position, having been endeavoring towards such an end unceasingly since it fell, considers it's legs and arms both, flexing a now pristine right arm and a largely restored left, before gazing at it's unresponsive legs. Finally the mage responds, his words contemplative, even through the Soul Grave.

"...Yes, I suppose I shall let it end here. I find myself impressed with your tactics, And I admit not expecting this outcome. ....Now, explain why you disobeyed me, bringing additional weaponry to this fight."

I glance around quickly, and see Derkin still unconscious beside me, unable to comment, and none of the militia yet revived were involved in my scheme.

>...You could blame it on Derkin, say it was his idea....
.......


What should I do, what do I say?
>>
No. 173838 ID: 716eb0

>>173834
>Still, the golem -has- been crippled, which -would- make it a lot easier to finish it off; Since its prone, they could hack at its head now if they wanted to. So the overall point is the same.

...Which is why sparing matches often go until one combatant has been knocked down, which is in turn why I suggest calling the fight over and good game all around.
>>
No. 173850 ID: e31d52

>What should I do, what do I say?

"So you may learn as well as we do, Lord Mordre. One must be prepared for all eventualities. I'm sure you'll be taking some time to fix those weaknesses I discovered here now rather than on the battlefield where such blows would destroy you."
>>
No. 173855 ID: b14128

>>173836
Hrmm... You -could- blame Derkin, but that'd just be mean and dishonest. And it'd likely also make him less inclined to like and trust you, which isn't a good thing. We should take responsibility ourselves... If we need to. First, let's see if we can deflect the question and avoid answering it at all.
He said he didn't expect you to win. So, try calling him out on giving you a fight you couldn't win fairly. Also mention that, even with our side having cheated, we're the last one standing when the spar was ended; Obviously this battle was be too unevenly matched to do anything other than wound people, as one can't learn to swim by being tossed into the middle of the ocean during a storm.

>>173850
Oooo, this is a good idea, too. Also mention this if you need more 'ammo' to avoid answering his accusations.

...Also, one last thing; Remember back when Mage Morde used magnetomancy on Derkin's armor, hurling him away? About how you 'Felt something' as this happened? Make a mental note to talk to Mage Morde or his apprentice, it might be significant in some way.
>>
No. 173863 ID: 275a5d

>>173836
"THere's nothing to be learned from an unwinnable fight, sir. Without some manner of enhanced weaponry, you might as well have strapped us down and beat us into the ground, as I'm sure you know.

I figured bringing the morphic weapons would make this a more profitable experience for those learning (gesture to yourself), those teaching (gesture to the golem), and those observing (gesture to the big northerners).

That, and I couldn't help feeling like this whole test might have had a hidden message to us milita. "Nothing is certain in battle," and all that."
>>
No. 173865 ID: 275a5d

Oh, you could also point out that secretly bringing the weapons helped your fellow militia rapidly adapt to new circumstances in battle.

Well, those that weren't idiotically charging into a concussion, at least.
>>
No. 173921 ID: d3dfb8

>>173836
"We have no means of defending ourselves and a lesson on slaughter seems rather pointless."
>>
No. 173987 ID: d1210a

>>173850
>"So you may learn as well as we do, Lord Mordre. One must be prepared for all eventualities. I'm sure you'll be taking some time to fix those weaknesses I discovered here now rather than on the battlefield where such blows would destroy you."
...Okay, distraction, got it.

"I did it so that we weren't the only ones learning, mage Mordre. As you yourself said, one must be prepared for all eventualities. Furthermore, I'm sure that based on this, you'll be fixing those weaknesses that I revealed and exploited, right?"

"'Tis true, I learned much of a golem's weaknesses here, And I intend to augment this form to better ward it from harm."


>>173855
>You -could- blame Derkin, but that'd just be mean and dishonest. And it'd likely also make him less inclined to like and trust you, which isn't a good thing.
>He said he didn't expect you to win. So, try calling him out on giving you a fight you couldn't win fairly. Also mention that, even with our side having cheated, we're the last one standing when the spar was ended; Obviously this battle was too unevenly matched from the get-go.
>>173863
>"There's nothing to be learned from an unwinnable fight, sir. Without some manner of enhanced weaponry, you might as well have strapped us down and beat us into the ground, as I'm sure you know. I figured bringing the morphic weapons would make this a more profitable experience for those learning (gesture to yourself), those teaching (gesture to the golem), and those observing (gesture to the big northerners). That, and I couldn't help feeling like this whole test might have had a hidden message to us militia. "Nothing is certain in battle," and all that."
>>173865
>Oh, you could also point out that secretly bringing the weapons helped your fellow militia rapidly adapt to new circumstances in battle.
>>173921
>"We have no means of defending ourselves and a lesson on slaughter seems rather pointless."

Armed with the focus of several of the voices in my head focused on this incident, I continue on in my defense of my actions.

"Well, truth be told I'd say this fight, both now specifically, with just me standing to fight you, and in general, well..... we didn't really have a chance. I mean, barring the weapons that got snuck in against your orders, nothing we had was able to even scratch your golem, even from the outset. I figured bringing in morphic weapons would let everyone involved learn more, both us militia learning about some means of opposing golems... and your new awareness of your tool's shortcomings. ...Beyond that, you seem able to repair it fairly quickly, so I imagine you'll be back in perfect working order shortly, right? So all that happened is everyone got to learn more."

"...Very well, I accept the spar as over, And beyond that I commend you, For the creative thinking you offered here. But be aware that part of this spar was punishment, Reprisals for insubordinate behavior. And cunning as your plan was, It is still a direct violation of the guidelines I gave you. ....I shall let it pass for the good that came of it, But in the future pay more attention to orders, And such a skewed spar might not even happen."

Wait, so I got off the hook? Ah, right, he;s waiting for a response.

"I shall... take that under serious consideration."
>Remember back when Mage Morde used magnetomancy on Derkin's armor, hurling him away? About how you 'Felt something' as this happened? Make a mental note to talk to Mage Mordre or his apprentice, it might be significant in some way.
" ....Ah, and before I forget, and I'm sorry if this sounds weird, but... I swear I felt something change about your golem and Derkin both, when you hurled him away. Same thing when you sped up, I was struck by the feeling something about you had been altered, or augmented. ....I don't suppose that means anything to you?"

[PERSPECTIVE SHIFT: MORDRE(Mosmordren Soul Grave, Sapient)

....Interesting, what this militiamen has done. Not only did he prove himself apt at opposing golems, but his comments.... it sounds as if he could innately sense my use of Magnetomancy. Most intriguing.

I stare about the clearing, seeing those who have awakened dragging those still unconscious off the field, and I see respect in the eyes of many of the Premen, both for Derkin, and for the one standing before me. Well, in any event, the sparring is done, and now I cannot help but feel I had decided on some course of action after this spar, but I cannot place what it was.....


What should I say or do?
Should I give the militia or the Premen any orders or speeches?
>>
No. 173995 ID: 275a5d

>>173987
I think a few of the militia, including Derkin and this fellow...Ulzrick, I believe we heard his name was at some point?...might have a profitable future as part of a Special Ops squad. We should give that serious thought.

Additionally, if this fellow CAN sense our magnetomancy, it may indicate that he can learn Will magic...a very potent ally, with the right training, especially coupled with his demonstrated tactical aptitude.

Schedule a few testing sessions with him later in the day. Bring Arkus in on it as well. THey could both stand to learn a bit of Will, if they have the ability.

It seems we have a number of gems among our forces.

Also, we need to determine how to patch through these weaknesses this spar has revealed to us.
>>
No. 174001 ID: 45bd47

>>173995
Indeed

But one thing is evident. These weapons were made with the purpose of opposing Golems in mind, not just as fancy stuff to break out on the enemy.


We must immediately try to strengthen our weak spots made evident today.
>>
No. 174012 ID: 45bd47

I posted some mod ideas in the discussion thread. Please take a look.
>>
No. 174037 ID: a594b9

We also need to figure out what to do with the militia. They got restless because we didn't give them any long-term orders.
>>
No. 174050 ID: 2497f9

>>174037

Agreed. Does anyone know how long we'll be able to hold onto them for? The types of missions we can send them on will be influenced by the amount of time they will be with us. I assume that Lord Whatshisface will want them back eventually...
>>
No. 174055 ID: ec03ab

For long term, can we go take out Dulu before he starts trying to attack us. And Sir Keddic Harksburton the 4th left us this militia to defend this research station,so we don't really have to give them back
>>
No. 174057 ID: 275a5d

Oh, and if you still can't recall what we were about to do, Mordre:

There was a certain matter of a "Golemslayer" making a nuisance of himself at Trepany. We were going to find out what he was up to.
>>
No. 174059 ID: 275a5d

>>174055

Basically. As I understand it, like this fellow says, Harksburton donated them to us.
>>
No. 174119 ID: 427807

MORDRE!!! YAY!!!

one additional thought: when we go after dulu, we cannot go alone. that fuck almost took us out by himself, then escaped without any help from his friends. Premen would be most valuable here. Also, when the time comes, remember how much of a charge our AA currently (probably) has... i think the last time we fired it was sometime around the verther fight...good bit of time and buildup on that weapon.
>>
No. 174158 ID: d1210a

>>173995
Yes... I recall hearing some address him as 'Ulzrick,' and his performance here was certainly of sufficient caliber that leaving him in the militia would likely be a waste. ...And then there is the issue of him feeling my use of Magnetomancy. Perhaps Arkus will not be the only living mage serving me for long. Thoughts of holding a testing session, possibly with Arkus in attendance to further attempts to teach him Will magic, cross my mind....

>>174001
...As well as thoughts on how to fix the weaknesses revealed here, the clear aptitude these morphic weapons have for opposing golems.....

>>174055
>>174057
...As well as the recollection that Dulu is still wandering about, possibly growing as a threat to me.

I decide to be economical with my time, and make my way to the pile of damaged and unusable arms and armor, and begin feasting, a simple plan for my own form crossing my mind: If my joints are my weakest point, then I simply need to enshroud them in further protective layers of metal. Once I have consumed around a ton of metal, I set part of my mind to ironing out the specifics of how these extra armor panels will work, while I call over Arkus, to give Ulzrick his assessment. I spend my time explaining all I can of Will magic, with Arkus clearly having taken away a great deal of knowledge from our last talk, dozens of pages of notes appearing as we converse. Ulzrick takes some time to immerse himself in our conversation, but he seems to understand concepts well enough, even if he cannot put them into practice particularly well.

It is past midday when I finish my modifications, aiding myself with magic from the Soul Nexus while I devote my own towards the lessons.... and I must say the alterations give an interesting aesthetic. I now appear something like a giant knight, clad in impenetrable plate armor. I do note I have gained some weight, now measuring in at a grand total of some 31,000 pounds, and that I likely will move slightly more slowly now, but my joints are just as strong as the rest of me, and I feel the trade worthwhile. ....Still, I will need to improve the general quality of metal of my body, if I want to truly make gains in my defensive capabilities.

The lessons with Arkus and Ulzrick's assessment have mixed results. Arkus collects another twenty pages of tightly packed script, but is not yet able to tap Will magic, or use Magnetomancy. He does, however, seem confident he will be much closer once he has had time to study the new information. Ulzrick has managed to gain some measure of competency with Will magic sensing now, at least, and can recognize it's use fairly readily. However, he made no gains towards tapping his own reservoirs of Will. But the noticeable gains in his magical perception make it clear: This one can learn Will magic. Arkus himself still cannot accurately sense my use of Magnetomancy, that this Ulzrick can do it so simply begs my attention. But finally I conclude the lesson while the light is still good, and make ready to pursue Dulu.

>>174037
>>174119
I first leave orders with Arkus and the militia nearby, that in my absence the militia not literate (and thus helping Arkus) are to maintain the budding fields, and begin deconstructing the shacks outside the walls, salvaging all usable materials. Once a complete catalog of the tower's books is had, the remaining militia will also pitch in. I leave them with suggestions of building new improvements to the Arcanoworks and it's accommodations, and considering it is their place of residence the work seems agreeable to them. I also leave orders to continue sparring and maintaining tower sentries and immediate area patrols, which they accept with more alacrity than prior to our 'lesson'. Excellent.

I also call over the Premen (barring Ugrokk and Jojo, with Ugrokk's treatment still underway), and tell them that I hunt an escaped foe, and that I require their presence on this venture. Before they become too gleeful at the thought of hunting down a worthy foe, I remind them this will be a chance for them to display their new, more disciplined fighting skill. Their confidence is now accompanied by sober focus, rather than cavalier anticipation. Hopefully, they shall stay so focused when we reach our foe. I leave the Kyogrock Arcanoworks behind, and make my way back south, to Trepany.


Should I go directly to Trepany, Dulu's last location, or should I visit one of the villages in the forest along the way? I recall there being two remarked present, and they might not even know of what has happened.
>>
No. 174194 ID: 427807

I say we stop at the two villages, just so see how they are faring. if the villagers are still fearful of bandits, inform them of the recent justice taken. Hopefully this will be straightforward, so as to not distract too much from our primary target, Dulu.
>>
No. 174195 ID: 716eb0

Alert the nearby villiages, and see if they have heard any information about Dulu while you are there. Any trail he left is going to be long cold by now, so we will need to ask around for rumors, and on the way is as good a place to start as any.

The villiages are certain to have further concerns for you to deal with, but try not to get too distracted helping them. The longer we muck about, the stronger Dulu's position becomes.
>>
No. 174211 ID: 38e63d

Yes, definitely visit the villages...Let's see if we can set up some trade with them. More trade routes = more money.
>>
No. 174245 ID: d1210a
File 127319549157.jpg - (232.75KB , 1000x800 , Forest Village Berluut.jpg )
174245

>>174194
>>174195
>>174211
I prompt one of the scouts with us that first saw these villages to lead us, and we set out with the plan to investigate both towns before moving on to Trepany. The creature of wood that had patiently sat and observed my conflict with the militia now bounds along beside me, throwing a critical eye to my new appearance before shrugging it's shoulders. Turning my thoughts away from my strange follower, I consider my quarry. After several days, I imagine Dulu's trail will be cold, and more villages potentially mean more sources for supplies, especially considering the threat we removed from the area. Beyond that, if Dulu is hunting me, there exists the chance he is actively seeking me even now, and I might run into him along the way. The sun sets while we are still marching through the forests, the Premen occasionally commenting on the strangeness of the trees here, with all their branches in a tuft atop their thick trunks, but Oggroth does not complain, able to reach into their canopies from atop his mount to pull free morsels. If it were not for the fact he shared his easily gained spoils with all the other Premen equally, I imagine Ugrokk's followers would be most offended, but it seems Oggroth does grasp how to maintain unity, a rather critical component to a leader. At camp, I run the Premen through a battery of language tests, reminding them they are to be doing all they can to learn the tongue used by those they call 'the little ones'. I start them on a few word drills, building on the basic knowledge they yet possess, and tear free another piece of metal from the bronze disc Oggroth's mount still carries: It looks less like makeshift armor and more like a misshapen lump on a heavy rope now, but it should still provide me sufficient materials for at least another week. As I pace about the camp, periodically correcting any misspoken words, I direct my attention inward, assessing my newly altered form with my full scope of Magnetomancy, and I correct a few flaws in the metal I missed earlier. The night concludes with me still pacing about the camp, in the middle of the woods.

[DAY 78]

I awaken the camp early, and I continue to build on last night's lessons by continuing the word matching drills as we march, and by midday, dozens of new words seem to be understood much more firmly by the Premen. I halt our drills as the scout we follow notes we near one of the two villages, and as we make our way around the dense trees around us, the sound of running water catches our attention. We come upon a collection of perhaps a dozen buildings, and the dozen or so people that become visible as we approach quickly. I hail them as they begin to scatter, likely terrified of an approaching golem resembling a great and terrible knight with a skull helm and blazing eyes, saw-toothed claws and shadowed pits adorn my limbs.... yes, I think I may wish to convince them that I am not, in fact, here to murder them.

"Excuse me, please do not run, I have this golem under firm control, And I and my men mean no harm. Part of why we are here is to bring news, With the aid of Trepany, I felled Lord Barcho, And his bandits no longer hold sway here."

They continue to cringe and many continue to attempt flight, but one intrepid villager musters up the gumption to address me.

"...Um, you said Lord Barcho is done?"
At this, it is like a floodgate breaks, as with the evidence of our continued lack of hostilities, the village starts to open up to me.... with the usual results.

"Huh, I was wondering why no one came to ask for food recently..."
"Wait, really? Barcho gone? Having a hard time believing that..."
"Well, 'e's got a Soul Grave, yeah? Doesn't sound so impossible."
"Well yeah, true, but where's the one controlling the thing?"
"..Huh, yeah, that's a good question."

Seeing my opening, I continue speaking to the now more receptive town.

"I am the Mage Mordre, and this is my Soul Grave. I devised a means of remotely controlling such constructs, And I decided to rid the State of lawlessness while... Gathering field data, and performing calibrations to my system. ....Uh, you would not believe how temperamental it is.... Ah yes, I should note that to the south, Trepany, Glenston, Trekel, and the newly rebuilt Hashbranch are once more free, And are establishing trade routes to share resources. Further, the outpost to the North is now under my control, So do not fear approaching it anymore. NOW, I seek a dangerous individual, one named Dulu, Who is known to be around the area. Have you seen him?"

A tumult of conversation breaks out at the torrent of news I have brought to the town, but shortly enough they start responding in their collective, rambling fashion.

"Oh, it's a mage then. Nice to see one around these parts again."
"Not 'it,' you twit! Said his name was Mordre, didn't he?"
"Ah, and speaking of bein' more proper, ah, welcome to Shellik, sir mage..."
"Wow, if trade is safe again, we do have all those pieces of woodwork we haven't been able to sell..."
"And let's not forget the fish, not that many villages are near a river as bountiful as this one... huh, things could get better, then."
"Of course they are getting better, a proper mage is about!"
"....*sigh*, Yes Phyllis, we know that it is nice to have a mage back."
"Huh, so all that extra food we'll have... what should we do with it? Bandit's don't need it, obviously."
"The mage said he took the outpost, why don't we just keep sending it there?"

[KYOGROCK ARCANOWORKS SUSTAINED RESOURCES: FOOD SUPPLIES FROM SHELLIK GAINED]

"I have some sixty-odd troops at the outpost, Now titled the Kyogrock Arcanoworks, beyond those you see here with me. I doubt we would need the same amount of food. Now, has anyone seen a stranger about, Possibly the Dulu I seek?"

"Ah, yessir, sorry about that, yer mageship."
"Let's see..... well, he didn't give a name, but there was that one guy..."
"Oh yeah, arrived.... what, three, four days after the last visit from Barcho's men?"
"That guy! Yeah, kept asking if we knew anything about a mage being around."
"Didn't say what the mage's name was, just asked about any mage we'd seen."
"A bit strange, that one. Had this real big pack with it, tightly wrapped up, didn't let nobody near it."
"Ooh, and the children were so curious about it!"
"....You know, I can't remember what he looked like, he always wore some heavy clothes."
"Ah, he had to be a big fellow, plenty tall."
"Anyway, he left after getting a meal-"
"Big eater, that one!"
"And left.... towards the nearby village, Berluut, as I recall."
"Sounds about right."

They continue to try dredging up further information, but eventually they end up rehashing what they've already said again and again, and I realize this is the extent of what they know. Still..... this could well be Dulu they met.

"This Berluut, it is the other village in this forest, yes? Do you have regular contact with them?"

"Ah, no, not really."
"There hasn't been much inter-village communication since Barcho took over."
"Last we heard from them was a comment by a prior bandit supply group.... now what did they say..."
"I think it was something about how the bird and snake eggs Berluut used to trade in being worth more than our fish."
"RIGHT, they used that as an excuse to get more fish from us, didn't they!"
"Good riddance, I say."
"I couldn't agree more."
"...Ah, if you are heading to Berluut, could you tell them to send someone over?"
"Oh yes, I would like to hear what my sister's been up to, I hope she's alright..."

"The one I seek may well be in Berluut, So I aim to go there next: I'll bring word to them, As you request. Now if you'll excuse me, I'd rather not let my quarry continue to flee."

I make my farewells with the now much more friendly villagers of Shellik, and instruct the scout that led us here to now bring us to this other village, Berluut. The sun is once more starting to set as we arrive..... to find a village with buildings built into tree trunks..... and no villagers to be seen. An open door softly creaks in the wind as it shifts. Some sixteen houses are visible about this empty looking town.


What should I do?
>>
No. 174249 ID: e31d52

Dulu didn't run around with a huge pack, nor a lot of clothes. The dude these folk saw? Different guy. We really should get someone to draw a picture of him.

...
Aw, feck. Magnetomance to detect blood.
>>
No. 174263 ID: 427807

use magnetomancy to detect if the iron in anyone's blood within the houses. If no one proves to be here, then investigate the houses and try to find clues as to what happened. if there is someone here, find them and engage in conversation.
>>
No. 174275 ID: bbdfae

>>174263
Indeed. Scan the area magically for anything interesting, and if that doesn't turn anything up have the premen cautiously investigate the houses and surrounding area, and perhaps check for tracks- those villagers would likely have left a substantial trail. Something is obviously amiss here, and we'd best discover what it is.
>>
No. 174293 ID: c587a4

This guy is probably not Dulu for what I gather, and not looking for us, unless of course Dulu re-equipped himself to take us on.
>>
No. 174718 ID: 6164e0

>>174249
>>174263
>>174275
>>174293
Hmm.. as I evaluate what the village holds that my Magnetomancy may detect, I come to the conclusion that the individual seen at Shellik is not Dulu. And as I come to this conclusion, I realize that all the houses before us have the grainy feel of blood within them, far too still for life. I order the Premen to cautiously check the buildings in groups after I sense no metal moving about within their confines. I aid them in their search, holding out some measure of hope that my estimation is inaccurate.

The first house I duck into has corpses strewn about, each with a massive, gorey hole carved through their flesh, all slain by this attack.... and I feel clumps of metal lodged in walls and in the floor. I wrench one free from the wall, inspecting the deformed lump closely....

This is a hand-cannon shell.

A quick assessment of the room reveals the other masses of metal to be the same: This buildings occupants were shot to death with the miniaturized artillery once produced at the outpost I now control. Those dead have no armor, and bear no weapons: Simple villagers were slaughtered with brutal efficiency.

I duck my head back out, to find the Premen who had the nearer houses designated for them to search bearing wary looks on their faces, and I glimpse dried blood within some of the other houses with their doors open: So the town was massacred, then. A second Magnetomancy sweep of the buildings, now that I know what I seek, reveals what I feared: Every one of these buildings built into the trees has deformed hand-cannon rounds scattered about, an equal number to the number of corpses in the room.

What bothers me is the lack of tracks when we arrived: If a group large enough to kill everyone before they could even flee their homes would have disturbed far more of the local foliage, so wha-

"Chieftain Mordre, this looks to be a message here."

I snap my attention to the Premen who spoke, and peer inside the building he motions towards. As I do so, I hear the wood creature that has followed me so doggedly now growling, glaring at the building I approach. Within, a lone adult and dozens of children lay dead, their blood spattered over the few books and drawings they had. Written on the wall, with splatters running from the corpses to show where the 'ink' came from, is a message that reads the following.

Barcho was an excellent pawn, a figurehead I had a preference to.
You have destroyed my life of ease, and destroyed the empire I was building.
I am fully aware that you possess more power than I, with you Soul Grave,
So I make you this promise:
I WILL return to lay waste to everything you value,
And I leave this newly made ghost town as proof of my solidarity.
You will know my return when all you possess turns to ruin about you.


At the bottom of the message, a rough outline of a hand-cannon is the only hint of a signature.

...Well.


What do I make of this? And what should I do?
>>
No. 174726 ID: 56ffe5

>>174718

Well, looks like this is the work of dulu. It seems that dulu was a much more dangerous man than we had thought...

For now, we should try and get our scouts to see if there are any tracks left behind to indicate a possible direction to search. Eventually we should let harksburton know that dulu is alive and dangerous. I'm pretty sure he'd be up for another go at the guy...
>>
No. 174732 ID: 716eb0

>>174726
Pssst. Thats not Dulu. Dulu was the dude with the magic morphing staff that got away in the LAST thread. The gunman who got away from the Arcanoworks didn't get named as far as I can recall. We really need to work on our containment protocols.


I don't think we are looking at a matter of many men striking simultaniously. You cannot sneak that many fighters into that many homes without someone noticing and raising an alarm. You would need one gun for every person in the town for them to die where they stood like this. The reload time is just too long. No, this stinks of magic. Probably some form of sleep or hold spell.
>>
No. 174755 ID: 9bb203

Oh hell no. This is not Dulu at all. This stinks of magic and magnetomancy, likely by a significantly powerful mage judging by the growls of the woodbeast(I keep forgetting about that thing).
I don't know why but I think this is the same guy that Ugrokk saw. The shots are too precise for a lone gunman and there is no way a group would have covered their tracks that well. I have a feeling that the message was made by magic. I can't explain it very well but what I see here points my mind that way.
But if so then why is there a bullet for every person? I need to think about this.
>>
No. 174757 ID: 8276a0

>>174732
No. This is one man. This is the Personal Artillery Man systematically killing an entire town - anyone that managed to go toe to toe with Sir Harksburton could easily handle an entire town. I would still suggest sending word with one of our runners to Trepany and the Arcanoworks to warn them and to Shellik to warn them and let them know that their neighboring town has been decimated. Let us spend...a few more hours studying how these people were killed to see if we can build an idea of how this lone gunman acts, and if there is anything salvageable.

After that, let us continue to look for Dulu and, if the trail is cold, continue to the other town's we've looked after to tell them the good news - and, hopefully, to take care of those Core Beings, too.
>>
No. 174789 ID: 45be60

Unfortunately, messengers are going to need to speak the local language. Might I suggest returning to the last town to deliver the sad news, and having them relay information on down the communication chain when they go to establish trade with the Arcanoworks.

Those Mordre Skull long range communication items we discussed are going to be important to develop soon, I can tell.

...Um... Bob, did you mean to say I am fully aware that you possess more power than I, with YOUR Soul Grave I hope? Because if this guy was addressing us as "You, Soul Grave" we have a problem.
>>
No. 174808 ID: 903f16

I really hope this isn't the Magneto level magnetomancer we scouted in the previous adventure against the bandit king.
>>
No. 174823 ID: 6164e0

>>174789
[Yes, that is supposed to read YOUR Soul Grave, that was a typo on my part.]
[And the Mordre-head communication network will be viable once Arkus becomes more familiar with several of the books on World magic in the Arcanoworks libraries.]
[And yes, the Premen are still incapable of serving as messengers until they learn the common tongue.]

>>174726
>>174732
>>174755
>>174757
I recollect the gunman that clashed with Keddic during the taking of Kyogrock Arcanoworks, and considering the type of weapon employed here, it seems clear that he is the culprit, rather than Dulu. ….Still, this scene is in and of itself odd, and full of questions: If only the gunman came, then how were they all slain in their homes? How did it come to be that not a single person was able to exit their house before the whole village was slaughtered? Something about this event is puzzling, and I elect to take some time to more thoroughly appraise the situation.

I tell the Premen to continue scouting the area, and to be mindful of the tracks that preceded us: It may still be possible to tell where this gunman went next. As they search, I begin meticulously coming the area with my Magnetomancy in search of anything of note as I search the area in a more conventional sense, looking for some sort of clue as to how this happened. After an hour of careful study, several new pieces of data come to light that we missed in our initial observations:

-Confirmation has been made that a single set of tracks came into this town prior to the attack.
-A single set of tracks (confirmed to not be the gunman’s tracks, unless his feet grew larger) has been noted to have arrived at the village after the slaughter.
-Little in the way of tracks to indicate the deceased occupants traveled much from their homes, even about the village.
-The houses do not seal well, and noise is quite audible through the windows and doors. A weapon as loud as a hand-cannon would have roused the whole town.
-Each house has a staircase leading to the tree canopies, with a large concentration of bird nests to be found in the tree’s canopies.
-74 corpses, 28 of them children, have been located, all within buildings, all with a single wound.
-Most buildings with several occupants show evidence that at least some of the victims attempted to defend themselves or flee, so it seems unlikely the attack was made under the cover of a magically induced slumber or similar magic.
-Many of the shells are embedded in walls at human chest height, suggesting many were standing when shot.
-Every house has an equal number of hand-cannon shells as the number of bodies. This would seem to imply that not a single shot missed, as there are no marks to suggest shells were removed prior to our arrival.
-One of the Premen confirms that the total number of hand-cannons we possess at Kyogrock Arcanoworks is six shy of the amount Barcho told us he possessed prior to his death, leaving exactly six hand-cannons unaccounted for.
-The gunman’s tracks head to the South-East.
-The additional set of tracks likewise goes South-East, at some time after the gunman ventured in the same direction.

As I consider all the new information we have gained, I find myself distracted by something I have noticed with my Magnetomancy. As I was meticulously assessing the corpses, I idly recalled Ugrokk’s earlier encounter with a mage in the Duran forests that pulled the very iron out of a person’s blood. I attempted to replicate this act myself in combat in several instances, but it seems I lack sufficient master of Magnetomancy for such a feat, and I had left the matter at that…. But something about the blood of the dead before us feels… different. Perhaps it is the death of the owners of the blood, but I feel the presence of the iron in the dried blood about me far more clearly than I can feel that of the living. I experimentally reach out to a bloodstain near my foot…. And I am surprised to feel the iron responding. I feel the metal breaking free of the dried and cracking blood as I continue to incur attraction between it and my own form, and after a few more seconds of focus, a fine grey mist begins to break free of the bloodstain, wafting towards my form. The wooden creature perks up at this, inspecting the gray mist with a critical eye, absorbed in my actions.

Interesting.

I distinctly recall Arkus having mentioned blood, as the second most potent source of magic, as having a power that persists even in the absence of life. This assertion seems confirmed by a few vague, shadowy memories of some Mosmordren mages scouring corpses, seeking more than just the souls and coin of the fallen.

…I wonder, could the power contained in this blood be made mine? If I free the iron from the blood, perhaps I could simply consume the iron like any other metal. I know little of the specifics of Blood magic, but this assumption seems in line with how Soul Graves perform. And with the troubles I have been having with the durability of my body as a whole, the possibility of gaining more power to improve myself with is appealing. But humans are touchy, and my cover as a kind-hearted, distracted mage could be threatened….


What should I do?
Should I start harvesting Blood iron from the devastation about Berluut?
Should I head to Shellik to inform them of this attack?
Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 174835 ID: 6834bc

>>174823
Harvest the blood-iron when it won't cause damage to houses or property - if we decide to repopulate this town, that'll be more work to do to fix it up. Also, we should definitely be keeping an eye out for more tasty magnetomancy-skilled mages, to better improve our blood-iron extraction ability.
The bits of iron we could recover from particularly bloody battles would be useful as snacks, or might even have alternate uses.

As for Shellik, it would be wise to head back there when we're done here. They deserve to know the fate of their friends (and, in some cases, family.)
>>
No. 174837 ID: 6834bc

>>174835
Oh yeah, and if anyone objects to us doing this stuff with the blood-iron, we can argue that it is a way to honor the fallen - their innocent blood was spilled, but we can use it to avenge their deaths and protect the lives of others.
>>
No. 174846 ID: 1ac39d

for all we know, having been used within a living thing could make the iron absolutely DRENCHED in magic power.
>>
No. 174860 ID: 275a5d

>>174823

This is pathetic. Simple-minded slaughter with no purpose, no real use.

Consume the metal. We shall employ the remains of the fallen to punish this cretin for daring to harm our would be subjects, but moreover, for having the SHEER TESTICULAR FORTITUDE to THREATEN OUR PLANS and gloat about it.
>>
No. 174863 ID: 275a5d

And I do not believe that the Premen will object, in any case. They are familiar with mages who utilize blood, and I think their society might see the meaning behind using such a source to seek punishment of one so despicable.
>>
No. 174865 ID: 275a5d

Also, what lays to the southeast?
>>
No. 174879 ID: 9bb203

Ok then. Something has been made clear to me, Either you have much stronger with magnetomancy recently or this blood was magically altered and that is causing it to be more responsive to your magic. Blood magic was involved here.

Muuhhaaa.. the pieces are coming together, slowly yet surely.
>>
No. 174881 ID: a594b9

The hand-cannon shots were not fired from a gun.

A powerful Magnetomancer killed these people. The shots were merely 'thrown'.
>>
No. 174890 ID: 2aaaf1

>>174823
Harvest away. But before we do that, start digging up some graves for the bodies. Don't want to look like a dick to all the other villages by leaving these people here. Also, I think our aggressors are connected in more ways than one.
Here's my crackpot conspiracy theory of the day:
Verther, Dulu, the old man in the forest, and last but not least, the gunman. They were all in the same plan, the whole "you destroyed the empire I was building"-thing.
The old man and our mysterious village-killing gun-toting antagonist were likely the masterminds behind it. Verther was the old man's apprentice and his stand in. His job was to amass a significant army, arm them to the teeth, and raid Hletwa to the point where they could get Del Roga's axe. With the level of Magnetomancy Ugrokk witnessed, I'm willing to bet the old man made all those cannons and weapons himself, using the blood of successful raids on other villages. Dulu was more than some simple mercenary, or a special counter just for us. Dulu was hired by the gunman to observe Verther, without the old man's knowledge. Them having a falling out wouldn't surprise me, not with the amount of greedy people we've been running into lately. Notice that Dulu was the only one in the entire Hletwa raid that had a morphic weapon. We also never saw him interact with Verther in any way, shape, or form. The only reason we believe Dulu was working for Verther is because of our one and only encounter with him at Verther's base, which occurred only during our attack. If Dulu was working for Vether under instructions from the old man in the forest, Ugrokk would've witnessed an entirely different scene unfold. The old man and our new rival had all the pieces of a strong and ruthless empire in the making: Del Roga's axe, superior magical materials and morphic weapons(Which, might I add, were produced from a research facility on the border of the Azelhaedran state. This was only low tier stuff, all the real goodies are farther in.), and what would've been an army of 1100(Verther's 700 + "Barcho"'s 400) men and then some ready to clean out the Azelhaedran state, vilage by village, outpost by outpost. But Mordre came along and put and end to all that. We need to speed up our progress here if we're going to compete with a man such as this. He is angry and desperate, and he has more resources than we had originally thought(Considering that he's willing to make death threats right after we crushed his dreams in front of his very eyes).
>>
No. 174902 ID: 6834bc

>>174890
If it is the super powerful magnetomancer, I for one am looking very forward to eating his tasty soul and becoming more adept at magnetomancy.
Plus, I wonder if he'd be good enough to count as two bodies for Kyorto?
>>
No. 174993 ID: c587a4

>>174881
That's what I thought too but if so, why did he use a shot for each person and not just use the same one (or maybe even five different ones) for everybody?
>>
No. 175006 ID: 0b568a

>>174890
This theory sounds very convincing.
>>
No. 175036 ID: 6164e0

>>174902
[No mage skin will ever count as more than one unless you find a morbidly obese mage to skin. However, the QUALITY of the skin is in direct proportion to the talent of the mage it is harvested from. The better skins you bring Kyorto, the more fully she will be able to re-manifest in a corporeal, unbound form.]

>>174879
[Actually, this is just the first time you spent a significant portion of time investigating the corpses of the dead. Remember, ownership factors into determining how easily controlled any bit of metal is, along with proximity and mass. With the ‘owners’ of the blood dead, it is more mutable to my talents.]

>>174865
[To the South-East is the outpost said to be controlled by State insurgents, where lightning has been seen to fall with disturbing regularity.]

>>174860
I find myself moderately impressed with the courage this gunman has, to leave such a threat for me even after acknowledging my superiority. I suppose the confidence could come from psychosis, or simply from being the type to bear a grudge above all else…. Or from having allies.

>>174890
…Now that I reflect on it, Dulu’s weapon certainly sounds like it qualifies as a morphic weapon, just a more involved and elaborate piece, likely from the runes inset in it’s surface. Beyond that, I am becoming aware of the fact I only met Dulu the one time at Verther’s camp, his absence at any other conflict with Verther seems somewhat strange for a lieutenant. Factor in the similarities between his weapon and the morphic weapons at the Arcanoworks, and it seems fairly reasonable to assume this Gunman who claims Barcho was his puppet supplied him. Then factor in the hypothesis the masterful Magnetomancer we discovered in the woods after Verther’s death, and it seems possible we are looking at some sort of network. Considering that this mage could truthfully make the same claim as the one written in blood here, that I destroyed what he was working for, I wonder if it truly was just the gunman who came here…. There is the second set of tracks that reached this village between the Gunman and our own arrival…

The mage and his dead apprentice Verther, with this Gunman supplying Dulu who fought alongside Verther’s forces…. Hm. I already feel confident I have identified what the mage could be seeking, as that axe Del Rogo holds must contain sensitive data about hundreds, thousands of past customers, a powerful tool for any looking to advance themselves. Originally I had been at least somewhat skeptical of Verther’s plan, as even with the artillery he possessed, his numbers and equipment seemed insufficient. But if instead of just Verther and his seven hundred attacking Hletwa, it had been an attack from Verther, the Gunman and Barcho, the cannons, the had-cannons, the morphic weapons and some eleven hundred warriors, I could much more easily see the attack as being successful. Hm…. I wonder, in the instance I am correct about this coalition force, who is the leader? Is it this gunman, or Verther’s master? Or possibly both? Questions still abound, but I feel I am getting much closer to understanding the truth…

>>174881
With this new mindset concerning my surviving foes, I re-examine several of the shells scattered about the village, but none show evidence that any Magnetomancy acted on them but my own, so unless it is possible to somehow conceal the aftereffects of using Magnetomancy, none was used in the attack.

…I do note that I can perceive some remnants of Will magic imbued in the shots, though the magics have decayed enough that I can no longer determine what their purpose may have been. All I can be sure of is that it was NOT Magnetomancy, whatever the magic may have been.

>>174835
>>174837
>>174846
>>174863
I start to wander about the ghost town again, this time seeking bodies and bloodstains to leverage my Magnetomancy on. As I do this, I command the Premen to begin digging graves for the dead, and to bury each corpse after I have harvested their blood iron. The sun is almost gone from the sky by the time this task is done, but as the last body is buried I look at the sphere floating above my hand, the compressed mass of all the Blood iron from the dead of Berluut. Knowing the Premen to be both aware of my true identity and familiar with Blood magic through several of their shamans, I feast on the baleful orb I assembled.

I feel…. I do not possess words or concepts to apply to what I feel course through me as I consume the Blood iron, my knowledge of magic only extending to Will based Magnetomancy and some basics of World Magic’s function. Without some command of Blood magic analysis of what is happening seems difficult, but I do the best I can:

-I feel…. More connected. Like the individual pieces of metal I consumed and converted into parts of my body are bonded more strongly, though I could not point to why I feel this way. The feeling is strongest in the parts of my body with the highest concentration of iron.
-I feel as if the Black Steel of the Sable Executioner is…. Vibrating, humming, practically singing as I ingest the Blood iron, as if it craves such material.
-I feel Merrack the Swift, The fragment of Thomro the Strong, Fang-Taker, Ozmand the Hammer and Luo of the Winding Path’s souls all become more…. Invigorated, energized by the metal I feasted on. I would almost call them more alive, if such were not impossible.

…Most enjoyable, I find myself partial to the aesthetics and…. Not flavor or taste, but the essence that seems to pervade Blood iron. I hope to find more chances to consume it.

Now that the village of Berluut has been thoroughly swept, I am at a crossroads:


Do I head back to Shellik to tell them of what fate befell Berluut, or do I continue to track the Gunman and whoever else followed after him?
Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 175043 ID: a594b9

>>175036
If not Magnetomancy, then it was some form of Will magic that propelled the shots. Some kind of slingshot perhaps? Or did he just throw them with his hands?

Hey, how does your Accelerator fist power work?

Make a note to ask a Premen shaman or whoever's familiar with Blood Magic about the possible magical aspects of Blood Iron.
>>
No. 175048 ID: 45be60

Go tell them. They are bound to find out anyway, but it would be much better to be told than to discover it when they attempt to visit themselves.
>>
No. 175056 ID: 265f50

>>175036

Let's continue tracking while the trail is fresh. Every minute we delay the tracks will disappear. If we have time, we should also scout out this insurgent research outpost.

Also, are there any villages in the area of that outpost? They may be a good place to get info on the outpost or information about the overall conflict.

Another thing you mentioned was that we are running low on supplies of bronze for us to eat. Is there any significant sources of metal nearby? Mines? Stockpiles? We may have to raid them if we intend to stay in this area for much longer.
>>
No. 175107 ID: 445c48

>No mage skin will ever count as more than one unless you find a morbidly obese mage to skin

So we need to find an American mage.
>>
No. 175335 ID: 8276a0

We travel back, and we send scouts forward to search for the trails leading away. We are fast so we should be able to move fast.

And as a note: Next time we have a battle, we are gonna start harvesting blood -and- souls, sure?
>>
No. 175406 ID: fa32fb

I think people are focusing far too much on magnetomancy. It is only one of many types of magic around.

If we look at this village it seems like everyone in it was shot one by one without the rest of the village noticing despite some of the villagers having had brief opportunities to flee and shout for help. Could the gunman simply be using some kind of magic ability that dampens sound? His perfect accuracy also hints that he might have some non-magnetic way of altering the shell trajectories...

I think we might be dealing with some kind of air or wind based magician here. During the gunman's battle at the Arcanoworks his poer was described as similar to Mordre's, so Will-based at the very least.
>>
No. 175500 ID: 445c48

>>175406
>His perfect accuracy also hints that he might have some non-magnetic way of altering the shell trajectories...

Or maybe he's JUST THAT AWESOME
>>
No. 175599 ID: d1210a

>>175048
>>175335
"Oggroth, I want you to follow the trail, And take the rest of the warriors here with you. You are to continue following these tracks, While I travel to Shellik to bring them news. As I do not tire, I hope to catch up to you, Before you meet our quarry."

Oggroth nods and barks out some orders, and sets off to the South-East, the scouts already fanning out ahead while the heavy warriors lope alongside Oggroth. I waste no time stationary, and set out towards Shellik, tapping both sources of magic at my disposal for a potent self-augmentation with Magnetomancy. I accelerate as my body grows lighter and more responsive, possibly in the range of 20-25 miles per hour, with fluctuation due to having to navigate irregular terrain. ....Still, I feel I am notably slower than I was last time I tried moving at such a speed.... likely the result of my newly reinforced form. I shall have to make due, until such time I either gain another Soul Nexus, or I find another Magnetomancer to consume, as the risk of not having my joints so armored was made clear in the earlier bout with the militia. That Ulzrick... Early on in the fight, for a moment he looked at me, as if he.... saw through me, as much as I loathe to consider it. The moment passed quickly after he fell to the ground, but still.... Well, in any case I think he bears further investment of time and resources, if he could come up with such effective means of targeting a golem within an hour and implement it so.

The sun has been gone for several hours when I arrive at Shellik, and most of the house lights are out. I release my hold on my own magnetic fields as I come to a halt, once more bringing my full weight down with a resounding thud. Within seconds the whole town is scrambling at the noise, and as the quicker villagers spot me, they yell for everyone to get up. I have the whole town raptly focused on my in less than thirty seconds.

"I apologize, but I must make this brief: Someone attacked Berluut... with no survivors found. The rest of my men are already following the trail, And I move to rejoin them, to prevent further tragedies. I am sorry for your loss of neighbors, friends and kin, And I will bring justice to the ones who did this, This I promise you!"

I make my leave as I finish my message, once more directing my Magnetomancy inwards, and I hear the turmoil erupting behind me in Shellik, but I refuse to let these wandering individuals with grudges against me, Dulu or this Gunman, any longer. I will track down and kill them both, and as I have the trail of the gunman already found, I race to rejoin my troops. The night deepens further still before I sense masses of metal before me, and identify them as the Premen. Once I rejoin them they tell me they continued to march and track, under the assumption my return would be swift. Oggroth also mentions he has the scouts in to groups of four, one scouting for the war party (Meaning Oggroth and the heavy warriors, I presume), while the other goes farther ahead along the trail. They've been switching off every hour, and so far they have not yet caught up to either creators of the tracks we follow.

..Hm. From what Oggroth mentioned, it sounds as if the tracks following the gunman, the larger of the two sets of tracks as I recall, is still following the same path. But WHO is the creator of this second set of tracks? Possibly a bounty hunter, or someone seeking vengeance? It couldn't be one of his allies, all the bandits at the outpost that survived have been enslaved to do penance save him...

I break out of my considerations as I sense another collection of metal nearing us, and realize the scouts are about to do their exchange, and update us on the trail. They slow for a moment as they note my returned presence, and turn to address both Oggroth and I with their report.

"Still straight South-East, the same as before. Forest begins to thin out a half hour or so more travel down this path, looks to continue thinning. Another plain assumed to follow, with the terrain still flat."

I note several tired faces, but none offer complaint or seem genuinely drowsy, and we could easily keep marching. ...I also consider the fact I could likely follow this trail much faster than the Premen can as a group, with no need for sleep or rest. I am less adept than my scouts at tracking, with highly limited experience in the craft: I might need assistance if I were to run on ahead.


What should I do? Should we keep tracking later into the night [approx. 2 hours until next day starts], or set up camp now to get an earlier start tomorrow? Or should I travel beyond the Premen and take advantage of my inexhaustible form to try and catch up to our target quicker?
>>
No. 175602 ID: a594b9

The tracks are heading Southeast, to the outpost held by state insurgents.

You can bet that is their destination. The Premen can set up camp while you head there. Perhaps one of them can ride in your hand to make sure you're generally sticking to the trail.
>>
No. 175609 ID: 427807

hmm.. i have a feeling we're close. lets continue through the night following the trail and see what happens
>>
No. 175641 ID: 6b81ea

>>175602
No. The hand is for Arkus only. >.>

Put him on your shoulder and run forward,
>>
No. 175654 ID: d1210a
File 127345134766.jpg - (170.60KB , 1050x575 , State Insurgent Controlled Outpost.jpg )
175654

>>175602
>>175609
>>175641
I elect to lift one of the Premen to my shoulder' carefully straddling the cannon as my right shoulder, festooned with wickedly sharp blades, is not conducive to being used as a perch. I order the Premen to set up camp, and in the event they do not see me again before dawn, they are to once more journey along this trail to meet up with me. Oggroth attends to erecting a temporary camp while I and the scout I selected bound forward. For a time, the scout has a terrible trouble with being bounced about, but as he adopts a looser, more nimble method of adhering to me, he experiences less issue. While we periodically have to stop and make sure we have not lost the trail, the speed we race after our quarry at is clearly exhilarating to my passenger, and what fatigue may have been slowing him seems banished by our swift, windswept journey. In little time at all I note the trees thinning, allowing me an easier path through the winding woods.

[DAY 79]

The trees continue to thin, with shrubbery having more chances to grow underfoot with the holes in the forest canopy, but the trail we follow seems uninterrupted, not deviating even a little bit from it's southeastern path. Hours pass as I race along through the sparser and sparser forest, and a faint glimmer hinting at dawn to come begins to warm the sky. As the forest continues to thin, something becomes visible in the distance, some structure or feature of the landscape, I know not. As I grow closer, as I finally reach the edge of the forest, I realize it is both, a rocky ridge of tiny mountains running across the plains that stretch before me, with a fortified outpost hewn out of the mountainside. Scores of torches are visible about the structure, and I dimly see torchlight glinting off a body of water that winds about behind the rocky ridge. With light beginning to fill the plains before us, I see bolts of lightning erupting, brilliant flashes of stark light illuminating the sky for the briefest of moments while thunder rolls across the land. I hear the report of cannons, and the defiant shouts of hundreds of throats, and piecing together what I see in the brief moments of complete illumination that accompany the lightning, I realize the structure is currently engaging someone. I see scores of bodies moving about the castle, but whoever they target is hidden from my sight behind another ridge of rock and earth, but the amount of dust I see in the air leads me to believe the force is sizable, at least five hundred strong. I see torches outside the camp, each with a dozen or more men clustered about them, moving to defensible positions about the outpost, lying in wait for their foe, whoever it may be.

I sweep my gaze across the plains again as a trio of lightning bolts provide a prolonged bout of illumination, and I see....
>>
No. 175656 ID: d1210a
File 127345139010.jpg - (491.41KB , 893x1140 , The Gunman.jpg )
175656

>>175654
Two figures, marching alone across the field, seemingly unconcerned with the conflict right before them. The smaller of the two individuals take a moment to turn about, a large pack becoming visible as his profile is exposed, and glances behind him, his eyes seeming to seek me out, despite the two miles or so of space separating us, and I could swear I feel hate and glee both in that gaze.

This must be the Gunman.

The other traveler beside the gunman reaches out a hand, and urges the Gunman on. I sweep my gaze over to the other traveler-

It's Dulu.

The two stare at me for a brief moment more, before they turn back to their journey, some five hundred feet from the Outpost. As they continue to approach, I see no attacks directed at them.


The only weapon I have with even a chance of reaching them from my current location is the Anti Golem Cannon (and at that distance I'd have to arc the shot and attempt to predict their future location, as well as being unable to alter the shot's trajectory. ...Well, with the amount of charge already stored, it might be possible the Amaranthine Annihilator could also reach, and it's speed exceeds that of even the Anti Golem cannon.... but like the cannon, I get but one shot, and if it were insufficient to slay them, I would be wasting weeks of charge. The only other options seem to be charging after them to close distance, or withdrawing to make a new battle plan.


What should I do?
>>
No. 175660 ID: 830a9f

How fast can we run and jump, while roaring at the top of our lungs?

We do that, launching the saw blades at the gunman, AAing him. As soon as the AA fires, launch soulfire, then create soul soldiers. NO MORE MUCKING ABOOT.
>>
No. 175661 ID: 427807

damnit, i wish we had more then just one premen with us...
Lets get closer to the two of them, but try to stay hidden. also see if there are any big boulders of other throwable objects. We should get to a point that is within a good enough range that we can anti-golem cannon and AA them with a reasonable chance of landing them dead on. That, plus tossing a bunch of heavy shit SHOULD hopefully be enough to eliminate these two threats
>>
No. 175662 ID: 427807

>>175660
Lets stay hidden, so they can't pull some bullshit on us. Also note: soul soldiers require external souls to make, so this is unfeasible at the moment
>>
No. 175666 ID: 445c48

Shout at them, call them cowards, and also question their parentage.

They might not hear it but it'll make you feel better.
>>
No. 175667 ID: 427807

>>175666
We're a soul grave, not some drunk 14 year old; we don't have feelings!
emotion is illogical
>>
No. 175668 ID: 445c48

Well, fine, don't insult them, but shout at them and say "HEY! GET OVER HERE! I NEED TO TALK TO YOU GUYS!"
>>
No. 175671 ID: 830a9f

>Use soulfire
>CREATE SOLID MEN MADE OF FIRE
It's worth a shot at least once, guys.
>>
No. 175680 ID: 507ff0

>>175668
Voting no on this.

>>175661
And Yes to this primarily so that we can get more info. I don't think it will be to our advantage to engage these guys right now...We've stumbled into something larger than we understand...Let's not mess things up by rushing into things...
>>
No. 175707 ID: bbdfae

Can we take both of them on at once? Maybe. But maybe not. Can we take them both on if they can get the support of one of the fighting factions here? Almost certainly not. Rushing into this without knowing what is going on would be suicidal.

We have, fortunately, very nearly confirmed our theory as to Dulu's cooperation with this gunman. Beyond that... I think the question before us is to accept this level of information and go, or stick around to gather more information/attempt to kill our foes and risk being disastrously attacked.
>>
No. 175710 ID: d1210a
File 127346593113.jpg - (70.89KB , 497x841 , Inferno Golem.jpg )
175710

>>175661
>>175680
I begin racing forward, trying to maintain some level of subtlety without losing speed. While Dulu and the gunman may be aware of my presence, as of yet I doubt the insurgents occupying this outpost have noted my presence.

...I reluctantly note that the two have moved far enough apart from each other that I have doubts using the Amaranthine Annihilator would end with both of their deaths, and at this distance I have little doubt they could dodge my Anti Golem cannon, with their demonstrated competency.

...I also regretfully admit that while I move far faster than the two, they have much less distance to cover. No matter how I calculate it, if I try to bring them into range of magnetomancy for a proper assault, they will have already reached the outpost.... and with the lightning they seem to be able to rain down upon their foes, I'd rather not let them get such assistance. I must do something here and now, if I am to stop them.

>>175660
>>175671
In a fit of intuitive reasoning, I set myself to spew forth my Soul-fueled conflagration as I dash forward, While bringing up my left hand and casting out for souls to fuel the Immortal Genocides tertiary ability....

SOULFIRE

[-3 souls. Souls Remaining: 531 Minimum: 12]

The fires spew forth, rushing at my hand while the Immortal Genocide, the shadowed pit in my hand begins to hum, and-

[-36 souls. Souls Remaining: 495 Minimum: 12]

The Immortal Genocide pulls more souls out, several dozen in the space of an instant while I exude the emerald conflagration. I feel it demand a soul of me to cage the raging power it now holds, and I move to see this newly discovered use brought to light.

[-1 soul. Souls Remaining: 494 Minimum: 12]
ABILITY COMBO DISCOVERED: Soulfire + Tertiary IG (Soul Soldier) = INFERNO GOLEM!!
>[To clarify, new combined ability does cost 40 souls total to make a single Inferno Golem]

A being made of fire, emerald lines coursing through and on it's body while radiating intense light and heat bursts into existence, and the Premen on my far shoulder shies from it's existence some twenty feet distant with the wind racing by. Assuming this creature must handle like a normal Soul Soldier in terms of how I control it, I direct my focus towards my desire to crush, flay and rend Dulu and this Gunman, to prevent their escape. The being, which I now recognize to have a sort of furnace encircled with the brilliant ivory lines tracing across it's from, embedded deep in it's chest.... as I feel that furnace heat up, the creature... no... this Inferno Golem is wreathed in clouds of flame, and blasts off, soaring after my two targets with a speed far exceeding my own, Soulfire personified and directed by my will. Shouts fly up from the outpost at the blinding star, the tiny sun soaring through the air, and I see cannons being wheeled about to face our direction.

But the Inferno Golem is simply too swift, the cannons only able to fire off two shots, which land in plain view wide of the aerial target, finally affording me a clear view of the castles weapons at a little over a mile's distance:

Cannonballs clam into the ground, a brilliant rune shining bright upon impact as a lightning bolt lances into the round, instantly liquefying the metal and spraying the molten cannonball about as shrapnel.... likely a devastating weapon to organic targets, with their intolerance of heat. Still, a potent weapon, and one I am happy I was able to see before it was directed at me. The Inferno Golem's blazing light has effectively been shielding me from visibility, so brightly does it burn. I imagine fleshy means of visually perceiving would have difficulty even looking at it, a rather handy trait.

Dulu and the Gunman both turn about, their forms starkly illuminated by the fiery force approaching them, a monstrous fist already cocked as it zooms ever closer to the two. The Gunman's hands blur as he draws a full six cannons from his pack, holding them akimbo in a strange, spidery grip, three to a hand, and fires all six, rocketing away from the encroaching Inferno Golem, riding the recoil like a wave, as Dulu's staff flashes, and is replaced by a massive shield with the golem's fist mere feet away. The fiery fist slams into the metal, an uppercut turned into a comet, the force knocking Dulu off his feet while denying him the chance to properly leverage his strength by bracing against the ground. I make note that even from this distance (Which I continue to diminish as I race forward) I can see the point of impact cherrying, the previously invincible material of Dulu's staff glowing in the early morning. The golem hesitates, as the two targets have moved in opposed directions as a result of first contact, and I feel it awaiting my decision on target prioritization... and I feel the souls fueling it's existence being consumed steadily while it persists.... and I wonder if it will even last long enough for me to join the melee.

I am now some mile and a half away now, with Dulu and the Gunman both some three hundred feet away from the outpost, both approximately fifty feet away from the Inferno Golem. I see cannons being wheeled about atop the outpost walls to aim at my minion, as wells as several of the nearby torches, each representing dozens of troops, moving to assist my two targets. The amount of lightning striking on the far side of the outpost, beyond the cover of a ridge of rock, lessens as more cannons are being commandeered to deal with the more proximal threat. Whoever else is attacking the outpost starts to make their way closer, and the dust clouds suggest they will become visible soon.... and might be closer to the outpost than I, even if they most assuredly move slower.



Who should I prioritize for the Inferno Golem, Dulu or the Gunman?
Should I risk using the Amaranthine Annihilator on one of the two targets, and if so, which one? (Will require a majority consensus to use due to how prohibitive the charging period is in terms of length)
Should I try a lucky long range shot without Magnetomancy to guide it at one of the two, and if so, which one, and what should I do about the Premen dangerously straddling the cannon, or the need to stop and brace myself to fire the cannon with any accuracy?
Or should I do something else?
>>
No. 175713 ID: 445c48

Send the Fireman after Dulu because fuck Dulu.

Actually, nah, Dulu can block this guy, the Gunman can probably just shoot his guns and run, and he just emptied them. Go after the Gunman because fuck him, then.
>>
No. 175716 ID: 445c48

Well, he can probably only shoot his guns and run. He might be some sort of magician as suggested here
>>175406

I don't know. I just know that we've got sort of a personal thing with Dulu, and I'd prefer we tear his arm off/shoot him in the face up close and personal.
>>
No. 175723 ID: 6834bc

Get rid of Dulu.
We shouldn't get too attached to revenge or anything. The Inferno Golem has, so far, shown itself to be rather effective on Dulu's only weapon, and we can take care of the Gunman easily enough.
>>
No. 175724 ID: 830a9f

>Molten metal
>magnetomancy

HAHAHAHAAH
It is as if they are asking us to murder them.

However, we should hang back, let the golem do the work for us. If it loses, or seems to be so, we leave, but for now, we must OBSERVE, watch them with utmost scrutiny, for now may be our only chance to ewatch them fight without them actually mortally endangering us!
>>
No. 175728 ID: 8276a0

Preman, hop off and run as fast as you possibly can towards the camp. We'll take out Dulu with our fireman and our own giant rage.
>>
No. 175764 ID: 2aaaf1

>>175710
Shoot the anti-golem cannon and arc the shot so it lands in the gunman's path of retreat. When you fire the cannon, tether your siege fist to the fired round with magnetomancy and let the extra force from Ozmand's soul propel us forward into the air and proceed to intercept our foe. Upon landing, launch two blades parallel to each other straight forward in attempt to saw off the gunman's arms. GIGA DRILL SKYBOUND ASSAULT, GO!
>>
No. 175775 ID: 275a5d

2 things before I post my proposed Strategy:

Shot, that was an awesome use of creative imagination. We'll have to experiment with these combos more.

Bob, the Inferno Golem is quite possibly the coolest power ever. Good luck outdoing yourself now.

Now then, I suggest we look at the abilities and their apparent affects with our golem:

We know Premen are incredibly hardy and resistant to damage due to their thick hides (Lorgk SHRUGGED OFF a direct soulfire hit, and the premen were weathering anti-infantry frag mortar fire). If our premen companion is feeling this things heat to the extent he needs to shield himself from it at 20 foot distance...

We should sic the Golem on the Gunman. It's far faster than these two can move, and the fact is that Dulu can weather it's blows to an extent, POSSIBLY long enough to exhaust the golems fuel. THe gunman CAN'T, as he doesn't have the benefit of a rune-enforced magic shield. The kind of heat described above will maim him even with missed blows. So have it rocket in front of him, between them and the fortress.

As for what we should do with ourselves: We need to buy the golem time to do it's job. I doubt the effectiveness of those cannon's AoE, but I'd rather not test that just yet, as the inferno golem was a rather expensive investment. Aim the Anti-Golem gun at the cannon's support structures. It and Ozmand's followup hammer blow were tailor-made to rattle fortified defensive structures.

For Dulu, continue charging and shout out:

"You put forth a pitiful display, Golem-Slayer. You side with a mass-murderer of women and children, seek me out from hiding, and now when challenged you can only flee from me?

It seems your boast's were as false as your combat ability, coward. I need not prove myself the stronger of us.

You do it for me."
>>
No. 175828 ID: 2e4a3d

THAT WAS AWESOME!!! Props to the guy who suggested it.

In terms of a plan, I mostly agree with >>175775 so lets go with that.
Also If you want em to stop sensing you you should try the rune.
>>
No. 175848 ID: d3dfb8

>>175828
If we use the rune we cant augment our speed with magnetomancy.

>>175775
Hells yes.

>>175710
Bob you are awesome.
>>
No. 175849 ID: 427807

>>175764
impossible. this force moving the golem shot forward would create and equal force in the opposite direction. If we tether ourselves to the shirt (first of all..how would we do that!?) the force would be equal, and the shot would stop; nothing would happen.
>>175775
whats with all these running-and-screaming-random-insults posts? the castle has cannons, if we make ourselves too noticeable we will be facing a hailstorm of cannon fire, and i doubt we would survive that.
>>175724
I agree completely. we need to take note of this castle and the ensuing battle. We should either: send the premen with us back to the premen camp, and have the rest of the premen join us; while in the meantime we control the inferno golem, and watch what happens during the castle battle.THe second option would be to continue trying to take out dulu or gun-dude, return to the premen camp then the arcanoworks to gather some troops, then return here and see whats going on with that castle.
Presently, I think focusing on Dulu would be better; he just seems more dangerous to us and eliminating him 'early' would be grand
>>
No. 175851 ID: a594b9

>>175849
We can deflect the cannonballs. Uh, probably. We should make sure we can affect them with Magnetomancy before we draw attention to ourselves.
>>
No. 175852 ID: 275a5d

>>175849

We have magnetomancy. The cannons are area-effect detonation weapons that propel super-heated metal in all directions: Nasty against anything that ISN'T an iron/steel reinforced titan at neary 2 kilometers distant. Even if they could hurt us, which is unlikely, our ability to redirect the molten spew with magnetomancy serves as good first layer of defense.

And the whole point of firing the Ozmand at the castle is to distract and damage those gunplatforms.

Again, I'd rather they try to fire at a moving target 2 kilometers out (us) that is nearly impervious to that type of area damage, than fire at the target 200 meters out who's defenses are completely unknown.
>>
No. 175853 ID: 275a5d

On that note, if we haven't already, tell the Preman to retreat.
>>
No. 175854 ID: 1ac39d

>>175849
i think he was suggesting to do like that guy from dragon ball who get's around by throwing a tree and jumping on. as in we launch it and then grab on for the ride.
>>
No. 175855 ID: 275a5d

>>175854
He was saying that wouldn't work.

We mass a lot more than that shot. A lot.
>>
No. 175856 ID: 1ac39d

>>175855
that's why we need an enormous iron ball that weighs more then us. we throw it using a combo magnetomancy/accelerator to just launch it at like a million miles a minute and grab on to it with magnetomancy.
>>
No. 175858 ID: 275a5d
File 127351543945.jpg - (53.26KB , 300x562 , 1271695867387.jpg )
175858

>>175856

>Iron Ball

>Weighs more than us

>20 ton golem

>throw it
>>
No. 175859 ID: 1ac39d

>>175858
>implying we can't use magic to make it not an issue
>>
No. 175860 ID: 275a5d

>>175859

>implying our magic is that potent when we can't even lift our own mass with it
>>
No. 175861 ID: 2e4a3d

Will you drop this line of thought already.
Remember that we used to have problem grabbing the Discs because of speed? If that thing does not fly out of range before we grab it, It would just fly right back into us. VERY BAD IDEA! We are not Rakan.
>>
No. 175867 ID: 445c48

>We should sic the Golem on the Gunman. It's far faster than these two can move, and the fact is that Dulu can weather it's blows to an extent, POSSIBLY long enough to exhaust the golems fuel. THe gunman CAN'T, as he doesn't have the benefit of a rune-enforced magic shield. The kind of heat described above will maim him even with missed blows. So have it rocket in front of him, between them and the fortress.

This is why I was suggesting going after the gunman, mostly. And because if the Inferno golem destroys Dulu's weapon, we won't get a better look at all the runes on it.

And delicious revenge.
>>
No. 175872 ID: bbdfae

We need to keep both of our opponents thoroughly occupied. Spawn a second Inferno Golem for that purpose; have the first chase the gunman and the new one hunt down Dulu. Have them try to kill their targets, but if that's impossible at least keep them from moving towards the fortress at any significant speed.

Have the premen with us get off and conceal himself for now; this battle is not one where he'll be of much help.

Keep ourselves moving forward as fast as possible. Once we've gotten to a closer range, we can cut loose with our various projectiles, magnetomancy, and possibly even Annihilator if it looks like we won't win without it.
>>
No. 175874 ID: a594b9

>>175867
Okay.
>>
No. 175877 ID: d1210a

>>175724
>>175728
Recognizing the artillery the insurgents have at their disposal as being particularly dangerous to flesh targets with electrification and molten metal shrapnel both risks, I begin directing my focus towards bringing myself to as swift a halt as possible. While I may be insulated from both of these threats, the Premen scout on my shoulder is not. I do consider the possibility of either pushing the cannonballs away from me, or possibly manipulating the molten shrapnel to simply ward away harm, but I have not yet had the sense to apply my sense of magnetomancy to one of the projectiles, and I know not if I can control them. I urge the Premen scout to dismount as I briefly crouch, and he leaps free, scrambling as he drops to rise facing me, awaiting orders. I speak even as I place my hand against the ground to steady my finally halted weight.

"Return to others, Tell all to march. I want them here, NOW."

The Premen barely gives himself time to nod before he is racing off back into the forest, traveling North-West back along Dulu and the Gunman's trail.

>>175775
>>175828
>>175848
Whilst I decelerate and let my passenger off, I am simultaneously following a quick chain of intuitive reasoning, concerning who would be the optimal target for the Inferno Golem.... who I already note is somewhat smaller, slightly less bright than it was when I created it just seconds ago, but thankfully it still possesses copious potency nevertheless. ...In fact, considering the aversion a Premen, a people demonstrated as being far hardier than humans to the elements, heat among them, I would assume burns could be had just by being near to the golem.... so the fact this did NOT happen when it targeted Dulu means his shield could allow him to avoid a large amount of the golem's potential lethality, potentially allowing him to outlast my temporary minion. So my target must be the one with no such protection yet seen: The Gunman.

The Inferno Golem, now partly wreathed in smoke from the immolated grasses surrounding it, shines brighter once more as it takes to the air, soaring both toward the Gunman, and to overshoot him, interposing itself between the outpost and my quarry. A hand crafted of fire fueled by the souls of the dead sweeps out in passing, grasping at the mustachioed killer. The gunman leaps back, shedding several coats midair and throwing them up as transient ablation for the oncoming heat, while his hands continue to blur, reaching for something. My Inferno Golem's arm turns the cloth before it to cinder with ease.... and is slowed by some minuscule amount, seeming to lose a bare faction of itself in the act. I see pain on the gunman's face for a bare instant after the cloths are burned away, but a bulky bracer now adorns his right arm, and while the Inferno Golem's arm sweeps closer the bracer glows ever brighter, finally exploding in a shower of sparks, thick smoke and lumps of melted metal.

My Inferno Golem soars by while spinning about, alighting on the ground past the cloud of smoke that swallowed the Gunman's form, going passive as it no longer has a clear target through my perceptions, likely to preserve it's fuel- it is notably diminished from the move and attack both, though it still has not lost that much relative mass. The grasses beneath and around it swiftly begin to catch on fire, creating even more smoke.

With my hand steady upon the ground, my form crouched, stable and braced, I decisively aim the Anti-Golem Cannon at the insurgent artillery blister closest to having turned about to face my Inferno Golem, taking advantage of the duo of sources of smoke and the still blinding light of my golem to keep my position hidden from then. The wood creature, tenaciously having stuck with me this whole time (and wisely hanging back when I first summoned the Inferno Golem), flinches at the booming report of my cannon, but does not flee. The shot has to be aimed high, to arc over the expanse between us, still in excess of a mile, but with pinpoint precision precision it slams into the stationary cannon blister, gouging a hole straight through one of the cannons, while a bare instant later skin rips, bones break, stone cracks and metal warps as the invisible, massive hammer guided by Ozmand's soul follows after the shell, crushing down all near the path of the spiraled Anti-Golem shell. Two more cannons are outright crushed through the stone of the wall, and another one is so badly warped it is now useless, eliminating all four of the cannons closest to firing upon my minion, and therein possibly expediting it's eventual exinguishment. Along with the four cannons, at least a dozen lives are ended that I can see, those that had been about the cannons, and the shell likely descended deeper into the fortress, claiming more lives beyond those I see here. Even better, the smoke, light and the other force engaging the insurgents seem to have kept me undetected, as I only note confusion about their actions, casting about in search of a target, even more cannons being pulled from the bombardment of the other force on the far side of a rocky ridge....

Speaking of the other force facing the insurgents, some finally become visible, and with the morning having been underway for a while, I have a clear sight of their appearance: They wear uniform armor with the symbol of a gem-topped staff and sword crossed within a crown, it's peaks shaped to look like buildings stitched into their surcoats. I see dozen rounding the corner in the bare glimpse, but I see blood and fatigue about them, the sustained fire they have taken from the insurgents telling. I see the fear of death in many an eye, over yonder.

This cornucopia of events about the battlefield occur concurrently and at great speed.... and mere seconds after I fire the Anti-Golem Cannon, the Gunman steps out of the thick smoke that shrouded him, scorch marks present about his clothes and blood running from cracked skin where visible, but he does not move with impairment.

I also note Dulu now charging towards the Inferno Golem, his staff-turned-shield, already cool by it's appearance, angled to ward off the heat emanating from my minion as he hurtles forward, seemingly intent on clashing with it, while the Gunman once more hefts his hand-cannons, all six grasped simultaneously in his curious grip.

The first group of insurgents outside the fortress skids to a halt some distance from my Inferno Golem, apparently hesitant to engage such a threat. I note them to be closely huddled together, and see at least four other groups, all of them a score or more in size, that will reach the point of engagement shortly.... who seem to have been pulled from those being set up to harass the incoming soldiers with the staff and sword in a crown symbol.

>>175872
[This can be done, the creation of multiple simultaneous Inferno Golems, but two things: Needs some level of consensus among posters, and the more you try to control at once, the less responsive/more cumbersome to control they become, so keep that in mind. Suggest it again if you still wish to do it, but be aware you will no longer be able to hide your position at that point.]


What should I do?
What priorities should I transmit to the Inferno Golem?
>>
No. 175880 ID: a594b9

>>175877
Have the Inferno Golem place himself between Dulu and the Gunman. Let the Gunman attempt to shoot the golem and the bullets will hit Dulu.
>>
No. 175881 ID: d3dfb8

>>175877
Have the inferno golem continue to engage that damn gunman. Resume advancing toward Dulu.
>>
No. 175882 ID: 2aaaf1

>>175877
Punch cannonball = Lightning golem???
>>
No. 175884 ID: 427807

have the inferno golem keep going after the gunman.
>>175882
this wont work. lightning doesnt have any souls in it, a necessary item to have for creating soul beings.

lets continue cloasing the distance between us and dulu/gunman, but be sure not to be seen by the castle by hiding in the smoke. once we get closer, open up on dulu/gunman with the AA, blast them to smithereens!
>>
No. 175885 ID: e31d52

>>175882
Soulfire the cannonballs, more like, and soul soldier JUST as the lightning hits.

Then see what happens.
>>
No. 175887 ID: e31d52

>>175885
Wait, no. That won't work... The lightning has to be internally generated. We'd have to make somne sort of soul LIGHTNING, possibly by compressing the heat of the fire? I'm not sure... either way, such experiments are pointless.

Keep Dulu in ONE PLACE, AA him while he's distracted. BLOCK THAT, MOTHERFUCKER.
>>
No. 175888 ID: e31d52

>>175887
Fuck, one last note: If two others agree, Pristine that fucking shot. We want this bastard GONE.
>>
No. 175889 ID: 2e4a3d

>>175888
Actually now that I think about it, this isn't such a bad Idea. A pristine soul based on accuracy and lethality would be good for this moment, though I'm an infighter at heart so I have a few reservations. Hopefully this does not go to waste.

Have the Inferno Golem rush Dulu with the appearance of attacking, then have it abruptly switch targets to the gunman. Fire the Pristine AA cannons while Dulu pauses to redirect.
HE BETTER NOT HAVE A DEFENSE AGAINST THIS!!!!
>>
No. 175892 ID: a594b9

We've already used a Pristine Soul on the AA. I don't think we can do it again!

Also this doesn't seem like it's actually going to be a hard fight so let's NOT waste a Pristine Soul on it!
>>
No. 175893 ID: e31d52

>>175892
You really think so?

:3c
>>
No. 175908 ID: bbdfae

Keep the inferno golem on that gunman. Don't let him get into the fortress, whatever happens; he could get away from there.

Move forward as quickly as possible. Do not use more weapons at the moment, just concentrate on closing the distance. We can use our blades and the Annihilator once we're near enough to aim reliably.

>uniform armor with the symbol of a gem-topped staff and sword crossed within a crown, it's peaks shaped to look like buildings
This remind anyone of anything? Do we know the symbols of the Azelhaedran State, perhaps? If this is them, then how we handle ourselves in this battle could define our future relations.
>>
No. 175918 ID: 445c48

AA the shit out of Dulu, have the golem keep attacking the gunman.
>>
No. 175920 ID: d1210a

>>175918
[Are you thirding the idea of using the Amaranthine Annihilator on Dulu and expending one of the two current Pristine Souls to further augment it?]
>>
No. 175924 ID: 445c48

>>175920
Only if Modre does not feel confident in hitting Dulu. I've sort of forgotten how accurate/fast it is. I keep thinking LAZER.
>>
No. 175926 ID: 2aaaf1

Arkus managed to seal Verther's body in a gem using only a little bit of our soulfire, could the same be done to two living targets if properly immobilized? I'm thinking we herd our enemies into close quarters and then sacrifice the inferno golem the same way Arkus did with our regular soulfire to trap the both of them in our eye rubies. The only reason I suggest this is because killing them might be a trap of some sort. That outpost obviously contains something that will either help them escape or obliterate us completely, so why in the hell would they stop to fight us if they weren't confident they could screw us over? The outpost is already sending backup to help them, why waste time trying to fend us off when they could be getting inside? I mean sure our inferno golem is fast and all, but it just seems a little wierd that they'd forego the chance to retreat inside the outpost where they would have a better chance of fighting us off.
>>
No. 175927 ID: cfbfdc

Guys, do keep in mind: Dulu's keynote trait is that he he has PRETERNATURAL AWARENESS, if I recall correctly.

I vote we go all out on one target, the gunman. Order the golem to all out assault the gunman. Then Annihilator him. If it hits him, he dies. If it hits the golem, he dies. If it hits the ground near him, he dies (thanks to the shrapnel/heatwave side-effect).

Also, if you guys are curious about other golem spawn combinations, consider this:

Amaranthine Annihilator, as I recall, utilizes the soulfire residue of our furnace, amplified by the jewels in our eyes, to make it's beam. So one of 2 things could happen:

We make a new golem type.

Or...we blow off our arm.
>>
No. 175933 ID: a594b9

Wait a second. AA expels all the heat out of the target in a giant explosion.

OH GOD LET'S SHOOT THE INFERNO GOLEM WITH IT!
>>
No. 175935 ID: e31d52

NOT NOW!
Soulfire, which the golem IS MADE OF, burns souls as well as solid stuff: We'll lose on TWO HERIC SOULS if we do that!
>>
No. 175937 ID: 716eb0

>>175927
>Amaranthine Annihilator, as I recall, utilizes the soulfire residue of our furnace, amplified by the jewels in our eyes, to make it's beam

No, the Amaranthine Annihilator is powered by kinetic force stored up over weeks of making it slightly more difficult for us to move. Soulfire is not involved in any meaningful way.
>>
No. 175938 ID: 445c48

>>175935
OH GOD YOU'RE RIGHT FUCK

FUCK WHAT DO WE DO
>>
No. 175943 ID: 445c48

Forget my previous vote, just book it! Run, fat boy, run!
>>
No. 175950 ID: d1210a
File 127354259684.jpg - (393.04KB , 1000x1247 , Azelhaedran State Warmage 01.jpg )
175950

>>175880
>>175881
>>175884
>>175887
>>175888
>>175889
>>175918
>>175924
I direct the Inferno Golem to get betwixt Dulu and the Gunman, to first charge Dulu as a feint before attacking the Gunman. I hope to catch a chance to attack the preternaturally aware Dulu flat-footed at that point... and I feel another soul swimming about inside my furnace, once more confounding me with a sense of will, purpose and thought, somehow persisting in the spiritual conflagration that fuels me. I nostalgically reminisce about my recent use of one of these... Pristine Souls, if I must term them something, that seem to sometimes make themselves available to me. I feel it whispering promises of a surer aim, or a more potent, more baleful gaze.... and as I reflect on how nimble Dulu has been, and evasive to most of my attacks....

I decide overkill is far preferable to later regretting a lack of sufficient violence, and I reach forth, opening a channel within my own existence so the Pristine Soul may join the prior one I used in enhancing my Amaranthine Annihilator. I carefully lock my eyes on Dulu while guiding the Inferno Golem to begin it's assault, it's light once more blazing brighter in response to my commands. It zooms through the air to interpose itself between the Gunman and Dulu, which forces the Gunman to stay his hand. I note him tossing his guns into the air as he reaches into his backpack again, pulling forth some other manner of device as Dulu tries to come to an abrupt halt and brace himself for the coming assault.... which the Inferno Golem never delivers. As Dulu is temporarily immobilized by my feint, I release the surging torrent of energy I have been saving up for weeks all at once, all while imbuing The Eyes Of Winter, the rubies I carry, with a second Pristine Soul. I feel crystalline pupils develop within the crystal structures, their surface smoothing into unblemished spheres, while their internal structure grows more complex with internal facets to redirect light. My vision grows in clarity, as the world begins to grow red about me.

[-1 PRISTINE SOUL TOTAL REMAINING: 01]
[-1 soul Total remaining: 493 Minimum 12]

AMARANTHINE ANNIHILATOR

A scarlet lance lashes out, tracking my gaze to Dulu, rivaling the Inferno Golem and sun alike in light intensity. The wood creature beside me puts it's bark and root extremities over it's eyes as it whines at the intensity of it. The beam is potent, every bit as impressive as when I attacked the Steel Fist's Soul Grave.... but Dulu begins jumping away before I even began firing the beam, once more relying on his possible prescience to keep himself safe.

Only as the ground where he stood cracks apart and a wall of fire begins to billow outward, I note with shock the the beam of the Amaranthine Annihilator is still present, still emanating from my eyes, rather than instantly winking out.

As the Inferno Golem grows somewhat unsteady under my control, it's assault on the Gunman slowing as I rapidly follow through on the revelation of how my Soulfire fueled gaze ability now works... and how to exploit it. Dulu's a bare meter away from the beam, still in the air as he starts to swing his shield around to block my attack. But in the space between instants my gaze shifts to the midair Dulu, targeting his shoulder, and the beam follows my gaze obediently. I see flesh freeze and explode, and Dulu spins about behind his shield.... and a leg gets exposed a fifth of a second later, which I neatly target and likewise freeze and shatter. Another leg gets exposed a bare instant later and is similarly dealt with, precisely excised from my foes concealed form. ...If only it weren't for his apparently indestructible weapon-turned-shield, I could target something more critical than a limb, but judging from his previous angle of descent, I doubt I shall get another direct point of line of sight to further maim him.

I instead elect to track my gaze rapidly towards the Gunman (Carefully avoiding hitting the Inferno Golem, as if I targeted it, I fear the flames produced might burn souls like any other form of Soulfire would. The beam sweeps through several plumes of smoke, creating tiny puffs of fire as icy splinters explode outward upon contact. In the process of averting my cold-laser-guided gaze from my minion, the pillar of ruby light overshoots, tracing a racing, meandering line through a collection of insurgents near my two targets, across the side of the insurgents outpost, and over another blister of four cannons, still targeted at the other forces engaging the insurgents. The beam winks out of existence moments later, about two thirds of a second after it started. As it does I see frozen earth, bodies, stone and cannons all exploding, throwing frozen shards about as shrapnel as fire leaps after everything nearby. The afterimage of the sustained beam of the Amaranthine Annihilator wanes, fading out of the air, while Dulu's shield falls to cover his form, only a sheen of frost showing evidence my attack even touched the shield.

The Inferno Golem rebounds as it slams into an invisible wall, a disc of fiercely spinning wind obstructing it's path and shaving some fire off it's form on contact. A quick glance at the Gunman shows him grasping a short baton with something sparkling at it's peak, muttering something as he motions at the wall of spinning air, which flits through about responsively at his gestures, always betwixt him and my golem. ....Impacting that shield cost the Inferno Golem, and I now estimate it to have two thirds it's original fuel and power left, at best.

With my flashy and prolonged attack with the Amaranthine Annihilator, I can no longer claim my position hidden.... but Dulu is down, and I do not regret it. I begin dashing forward again, as I glance about the battlefield, still a little over a mile away from the fighting.

>>175908
Those with the crossed staff and sword within a crown motif, who I suspect to be part of the official Azelhaedran State army, sweep startled gazes between myself, the Inferno Golem, and the devastation I wrought amongst the insurgent artillery blisters. But a bald man with a thick, leather-bound tome chained to his side bellows orders, and the force snaps out of it's uncertainty and resumes it's charge, taking advantage from the relative reprieve my actions have gained them. I see the bald one stare at me with a probing, contemplative gaze even as he stows his war-hammer in his belt and begins thumbing through his book mid-sprint, only periodically glancing down to the pages before him.

The insurgents, however, are not doing as well. I have cost them eight of 24 visible cannons, and the loss of a third of their total potential artillery is telling. Further, the gory mass slaughter I brought to the closest group of insurgents to the Gunman when my gaze tracked by has inspired the other groups.... to flee, back towards the outpost gates, engaging no one. I also note heavy rents carved into the outpost's wall, a testament to where my frigid gaze swept across the structure, scorch-marks adorning the unbroken stone nearby.

I am a mile and closing in distance, moving at 20 miles per hour towards the battle I have now fully invested myself in. I refuse to let threats like the Gunman and Dulu to escape me, and I will rein down destruction on all who would dare bar my advance.

>[NOTE: The Amaranthine Annihilator is now permanantly augmented so that as it builds charge, the beam will last longer as well as have greater power. And it does lose potency over distance, with these being some hundred fold more distant targets than the last use. Fun times.]


What should I do?
What kind of plan or actions should I transmit to the Inferno Golem, considering the Gunman's new air shield?
>>
No. 175951 ID: e31d52

Tell the fire golem to target Dulu, while you handle the gunman, with a charge. Don't fire any ammo, just run and leap as fast and as far as you can, letting out the dirge. Order the premen to charge the insurgents, give the official army a hand, and plow through the gunman's wind magic. I doubt he can push something like YOU.
>>
No. 175954 ID: e31d52

>>175951
scratch that.

Keep the inferno golem on the gunman, but tell it to fight conservatively. Close the distance as fast as you fucking can, Magnetomancy as much as possible. If your magnetomancyt can extend that far, try to ruin the insurgent's armor, weapons, or formations.

But most importantly, above all, MOVE THAT METAL ARSE.
>>
No. 175961 ID: a594b9

I wonder if we could simply pull the Gunman and Dulu to us via magnetomancy? It will take 5 precious minutes to reach them at the speed we're going.
>>
No. 175965 ID: 82dfd7

GAAA! We were met with partial success but we are still too far away, we need something...

Tell Ifrit to keep the gunman busy, we will end him first. Maybe it can punch the ground and send up a wave of fire to overwhelm the wall of wind. It is still a distraction at best.
Remove one of your blades from the AVL and place it on your finger. Spin it using magnetomancy to top speed and activate the Accelerator. Send it flying off at high speed towards the gunman. Your position should stop the attack from being seen until its too late.
>>
No. 175967 ID: bbdfae

I am concerned that Dulu might be able to pull some sort of vanishing trick again, although after we blew off three limbs he might be unconscious due to massive system shock. Regardless, we need to get ourselves to him as quickly as possible and devour his soul. If we can hasten that with magnetomancy, either pulling ourselves forward or pulling him to us, so much the better.

The inferno golem won't last forever in any case, so it might be wise to let it keep hitting the air shield- after all, no magic has infinite power. If we're able to bleed the gunman's magical reserves out at the cost of the inferno golem, I'll pay that price and count it well spent. That said, does this magic lose power when the inferno golem pounds it, or does it simply cost the same amount based upon how long the spell is kept active? I don't know enough about magic to judge. Either way, having the inferno golem constantly change its angle of attack and continue menacing the gunman should keep him occupied as he moves the shield's angle about.
>>
No. 175975 ID: 427807

Close the distance as quick as possible to dulu. remove the shield and reward him with about 15 tons of metal...on his face! crush him into bloody goop, then see to the death of the gunman.
Basically, this>>175954
>>
No. 176006 ID: 445c48

Haul ass to Dulu, crush him, eat his soul, and then run to the Gunman and punch his goddamn face out. Have your golem fight conservatively, toss another one when he goes. If we either manage to kill the Gunner or he gets away, send the Inferno golem into the insurgents, but don't refresh.

If you can, shout a greeting to the bald guy.

Also I've got a feeling you've got a shitton of kinetic energy. In, let's say 30 seconds, shoot another AA at the Gunman.
>>
No. 176022 ID: d1210a

>>175954
>>175961
>>175965
>>175967
>>175975
I continue racing forward, bounding across the open plains to reach my target, the fallen Dulu, while I continue to manipulate the Inferno Golem in my attack on the Gunman. The wood creature bounds along beside me still, once more gazing about amiably, having recovered from the shock of my Amaranthine Annihilator. I consider the object he uses more closely.... and estimate it to be nothing more than a wand and club combined, a gem sparkling at it's top that looks like it would be used to boost magic. That would make the Gunman a mage then, and with this evidenced effect, I would assume an Aeromancer of some sort. ....And I do recall considering the chance the gunman could void the sound of his guns, I believe that is within the purview of an Aeromancer of any competence. But as a mage, he is bound by the limits of his own stamina the same as anyone other mortal, and I wonder if a sustained assault from the Inferno Golem might not just breach his magical reserves, as he only has his own self and soul to call on, opposed to more than twenty five souls still burning in the Inferno Golem by my guess.

I shoot out a thought conveying an intent and concept I hope my minion can act on, that of it slamming it's fists into the ground to create some sort of flame wave or wall of fire, something to clash against the Gunman's flat cyclone shield. The Inferno Golem's hand's swells in size and brightness as it bursts forward, being swung into the ground forcefully just shy of the Gunman's air wall. The plants, even the very soil is inflamed, and as the Inferno Golem heaves it's engorged arms upward, the fire and smoke it brought down upon the landscape comes up with it, adding to the mass of it's arms. The Gunman's eyes widen and his teeth grit as the air shield before him balloons in size, clashing with the fiery fists hurtling towards him. The fists of fire and the wall of wind both shatter on collision, scorched air blasting about and temporarily obscuring visibility, so extreme is the shimmer in the air.

Some twelve hundred meters still separate me from my target, and I sprint onwards as I continue to pour my focus completely into my minion, a demanding task.

The Inferno Golem lost some mass in that exchange, a sizable portion at that, now perhaps three fifths the size and intensity it originally was, but I see true strain on the Gunman's face, and I see his newly erected wall of wind flicker fitfully.... he is exhausted, or appears it. I set the Inferno Golem to pounding upon his shield, trying to force as much heat in the Gunman's direction as possible, to exacerbate his already serious condition, his burns and cracked skin having been greatly aggravated by the mass shock of heated air he was subjected to a moment ago.... and one of his eyes looks a bit glossy to me now, compared to the other, paler than before. The golem continues to pound away, further shrinking to half it's original size.... as the Gunman is forced back. I note two of the surviving four artillery blisters are now turning their barrels towards my Inferno Golem, and the presumed State warriors, following the bald man reading from a book, are bombarded again by the eight cannon still targeting them. The bald man snaps the book shut as he slams his hammer against his shield and shouts a strangely multi-tonal Word, and the earth rises, a thick slab of earth rising to cover the forward troops. Three cannon rounds are absorbed in the earth, the lightning and molten metal doing nothing to the dirt, but three other shots land among their number, while the remaining two go wide. I now can see the full size of the other army now, and estimate it to be somewhere in the range of five hundred strong, with evidence of having suffered significant casualties.

I near a thousand meters towards my target, and the shield covering Dulu has not shifted, and I postulate the warrior to either be dead or in shock from the sudden and massive trauma he suffered, I know such to be a risk for the fleshly.

The first cannon round from the castle lands on the far side of my minion as the Gunman, lightning sending a spray of molten metal pelting my creation while the winds gust about.... and I note my minion to have gotten smaller, having been somewhat 'blown out' by the attack it suffered, losing precious fuel. It is now only two fifths as large as it once was, and it could hardly be called blinding now.... but the Gunman looks nearly ready to drop into oblivion, and his hands shake as he continues to ward off my Golem, unwilling to halt his defense long enough to start a counterattack. I see the Insurgents finally engaging the other force on the field on battle, and the mage with a book chained to his armor lays about with his hammer as he struggles to maintain his charge's momentum.

The other seven cannons targeting the Inferno Golem are swinging into position with nine hundred meters still separating me from the conflict.


What should I do?
What commands should I give the dwindling Inferno Golem?
>>
No. 176025 ID: e31d52

>>176022
Can your magnetomancy reach the insurgents yet? If so, push them back! initial charges are NOTHING without a good momentum, so help out if you can while continuing to haul ass. If one of those shots lands in range of you, use the molten metal and hurl it back with magnetomancy.

Start up your soul vacuum as you close with Dulu.
>>
No. 176027 ID: a594b9

>>176022
Launch a Blade to it. Attempt to guide its trajectory so that it can be caught by our Inferno Golem and used as a weapon against the Gunman.

Are we within range of the State soldiers enough to assist them with Magnetomancy? Surely we can deflect the cannon shots by now.

Also, consider summoning a second Inferno Golem and sending it at the Gunman, possibly absorbing the first Inferno Golem so that we may concentrate our focus.
>>
No. 176036 ID: d3dfb8

>>176022
Would it be possible to mold the molten iron into a quick-fix anti-golem round?
If so gather some molten iron with magnetomancy and fire upon the fortress again, aiming with the purpose of taking out as many cannons as possible
>>
No. 176037 ID: e31d52

>>176036
>>176027
We should keep in mind that further magnetomancy will slow us down.

However, we should do the following in order to assist the State:

1. Launch a saw blade into the second rank of the insurgents, magnetomanciied for EXTREME SPEED, but not much else... we'll need the rest of our focus to...

2. Drag the front line back a bit and assist the charge.

Furthermore, keep the Inferno harrying the gunman, but only just, while approaching Dulu.
>>
No. 176043 ID: 2aaaf1

>>176022
Tell the inferno golem to "breathe in". I know that this wouldn't give the golem any significant power boost, but perhaps rekindling itself with the wind shield might buy it at least a few seconds more to occupy the gunman.
>>
No. 176065 ID: 275a5d

>>175937

http://tgchan.org/kusaba/questarch/res/83524.html#85701

Read the first paragraph for me, please. The AA uses energy from our movements, but our movements are fueled by a soulfire furnace, and that energy is used to coalesce the soulfire emanating from our eyes.

See also:
http://tgchan.org/kusaba/questarch/res/83524.html#88941

>I tentatively probe the enchantments embedded in my new ruby eyes and into my head, silver skull visage and all. …They feel rough, somewhat disorganized, but bold, and firmly anchored. I can feel and assess the spells in my eyes. I must link it to my own soulfires, my own existence, to activate it. Then on, it will constantly steal force from my limbs, and build up this power to be discharged in a great blast of power from my eyes, fused with the Soulfire there. …although I do not yet know how it will work, I feel confident it is at least constructed well enough attempting to activate it will not end with my head scrapped.

>>175884

THe inferno golem is nearing it's limit. If it's going to go out, then let it go out with as big a bang as possible.

Have it Rocket directly above the gunman. And detonate it's remaining soulfire fuel reserves in time with the next cannon shot of molten metal.

If we time it right, the exhausted and maimed gunman will be to dazed by the conflagration (if he survives it) and our enemy's own defensive structures will finish him for us in their attempt to destroy our minion.
>>
No. 176067 ID: e31d52

>>176065
THIS IS AN EXCELLENT IDEA.
>>
No. 176068 ID: bbdfae

>>176022
Okay. We need to eat this man's soul and learn aeromancy, and take his skin for Kyorto. Such demanding tasks before us... hopefully his "burned and cracked" skin is still intact enough.

Because of this, while >>176065 would likely be an effective strategy, it's not one which accomplishes all our objectives. We need to utterly exhaust him and deplete his magic without making him suffer further wounds.

Have the inferno golem attempt to dodge the incoming shots while harrying the gunman; if possible, detect any attacks using magnetomancy while continuing our charge towards Dulu.
>>
No. 176070 ID: 427807

Once we get to Dulu, we need to eat his morphic shield!
>>
No. 176072 ID: e31d52

>>176070

Trust me, eating Dulu's crazystick isn't an option.
>>
No. 176076 ID: 45be60

This whole "does burned skin still work" thing is going to be a recurring issue, I just know it. Kyorto is totally going to look like a burn ward patient if we do not exercise a bit more restraint.

Also, I am a bit worried that Dulu may be hiding under his shield using some magic potions or whatnot to get back on his feet. Don't write him off yet.
>>
No. 176077 ID: 7f4f3e

>>176065

I like this idea...but Modre is 1000 meters away from the target. Since he's moving at 20 mph, that means it will take almost 2 minutes to close the range.

Therefore, if this detonation doesn't exhaust the guy enough...the gunman will have almost two minutes to catch his breath without us messing with him.


We need to keep harassing the guy, while we close the range. I vote that we make another soulfire golem as we detonate this one to keep up the pressure.
>>
No. 176079 ID: bbdfae

>>176076
Yeah... in the future, we should send agents to poison the food of enemy wizards. Their skin will be nice and neat that way.

Though we'll need to get to their bodies quickly in order to collect the souls in a timely fashion... hrm. There really isn't any easy way to flawlessly slaughter the powerful.
>>
No. 176088 ID: bb00e2

>>176079
Sure there is: 1)Walk Up 2) Break spine. Simple and Understated but effective.
>>
No. 176111 ID: d3dfb8

>>176088
I like you.

>>176072
This is true.

>>176068
Do this.
>>
No. 176117 ID: d1210a
File 127359793698.jpg - (66.86KB , 450x627 , State Rebels Captain.jpg )
176117

>>176025
>>176027
>>176036
I could attempt to direct my Magnetomancy towards my blades or to manipulating the insurgents facing the opposed force, but doing so would drastically lower my speed as I take my attention off optimizing my own movement. And with some nine hundred meters still left to be traversed, the idea of retarding my forward progress seems unwise, unless I am certain the gains will outweigh the costs. I have much ground to cover yet.

>>176037
...But the other warriors, led by the bald mage, do not have nearly as much area they need to cover. In fact, if it were not for the few scores of Insurgents obstructing them, they could reach my golem and the Gunman is less than half a minute. I scoop my left hand roughly through the earth, heaving free some three boulders, which I redirect my Soul Nexus towards as I continue running. The rocks soar from my hand at breakneck speed, urged on by Accelerator, arcing through the air as they approach their targets. With only half of my potential Magnetomancy directed at myself, I quickly run some calculations for the blade launcher, before I take all my Magnetomantic focus and direct it into the blade launcher. One by one, I fire four blades in rapid succession as my velocity drops, directing every iota of power I have towards amplifying their flight speed. While I do this, I scoop forth another handful of rocks and stones from the ground, and once more switch to using the Accelerator to render them improvised artillery. I then immediately turn my focus inward once more as I speed back up, keeping an eye on the airborne projectiles I launched.

Stones ranging from in size from smaller than a fist to larger than a torso rain down upon several of the insurgent parties slowing the State forces (I grow more and more sure of this as time passes), and rebels fall to the ground dead, broken or knocked insensate, the sudden holes in the insurgent line weakening their defense. However, the archers they moved to nearby rock ridges still harass the State forces enough they cannot take advantage of this situation.

Or that was the case, until four of the five groups of insurgent archers are met with my vicious spinning blades, blood and death tracing their path. Two of the groups of archers are slain to a man, their archery lines oriented in the same direction as my encroaching blades, while another two have huge holes carved through their ranks. The two wounded archery groups break at the death being brought to bear on them, leaving only the fifth group that I had not targeted still alive, and I can practically taste the fear and uncertainty pervading their existence from here. I reduced the ranged combat capabilities of the rebels outside the outpost to 1/5 of it's prior value... in the space of a few seconds. I see the bald mage glancing at me again before bellowing orders as he tries to renew the momentum of their charge and break through the now disoriented and confused rebels before them. My actions restored their charge's lethality, and they continue to cleave a path through their foes.

..And I note those rebels who fled to the outpost gate in terror of my wrath now being commandeered by whoever leads the reinforcements coming out of the outpost, a burly man with a blood-stained cloth wrapped about his armor. As he absorbs the previously fleeing forces into his own, his numbers swell to just shy of two hundred, and the rebel captain in the blood-soaked cloth roars a challenge as his force stampedes across the plains towards the State forces still trying to cut a path through the remaining rebels before them. In a moment of inspiration, I take my Magnetomantic attentions off of my own form mid-bounding step, and whip out my senses, trying to flatten and narrow my perceptions to boost it's range. The default omnidirectional sphere that normally defines my realm of influence and perception for Magnetomancy warps and stretches, becoming an elongating ellipse racing to bring me into contact with the few rebels still actively engaged with the State forces. I briefly consider that my 'field' of influence and perception seems to mirror magnetic 'fields' more than I had previously surmised, as I finally gain a sense of the rebels and their gear.

And I feel nothing protecting them from my grasp.

With my form coming closer to resuming contact with the ground, and the time when my Magnetomancy must once more be focused inward if I wish to avoid falling drawing every nearer, I waste no time in sowing chaos into the remaining ranks of those opposing the State. I push metal-clad feet about to upset balance, I tug shields out of the way, I push swords into fellow rebels instead of into the intended state target, I create chaos in dozens of personal manners as alacritously as I can.... and must snap my attention back to myself as my foot finally hits the ground, and I keep running, having lost no speed.

...Strange, I feel somewhat... out of sorts from having done that, though I could not point to why.

The State forces finally route those few before them, and begin charging to meet the rebel in the blood-drenched toga over his armor that leads the only other force of rebels on the field, the bald mage now leading some four hundred fifty, four hundred forty soldiers now. I also note him motioning to the side with his hammer, and a contingent of his force peels off to charge towards the Gunman and my Inferno Golem.

>>167068
>>167077
>>176111
On the subject of my Inferno Golem, I have been carefully conserving it's remaining fuel, and while it is now but a third the size it was when first created, the Gunman makes no move to destroy it, panting heavily as his limbs tremble. ...I note he only holds his wand with but one hand, the other questing into his pack once more.

...Strange, why has the outpost not fired any more shots, at my minion or the Sta-

The wood creature loyally following alongside me squeaks with fear, and it is the only warning I have before a cannonball slams into the ground some thirty feet away from me, a blinding flash of lightning preceding molten shrapnel. The wood creature cowers behind my leg, clearly fearful of the superheated metal and the harm it could cause it.

A glance forward as I continue to charge confirms it, the outpost has turned ALL 8 of it's remaining cannons still in operation towards me.

...To make matters more challenging, I regretfully note that while I can certainly see the molten metal that was once part of a cannonball nearby, I cannot sense any manipulatable magnetic field in the material. It seems possible these shots are either made out of a metal with an incredibly weak magnetic field, or they have been dampened in some way.

...As if this was not enough, I see an opening appearing in the mountain behind the rebel outpost.... and a cannon that dwarfs my own form in scale emerges, starkly detailed emblems of lightning bolts emblazoned about it's form.

The enormous cannon starts to swivel about to face me as five more of the normal sized cannons fire on me while I continue trying to close the distance, my wooden companion running along behind me.

I am now some eight hundred meters away.


What should I do?
>>
No. 176120 ID: e31d52

Ugh...
Damnit, we need to get to Dulu! When we do, scoop him up with our manipulator, eat the soul, then launch him with the accelerator at the cannons. His skin is no use now.

Secondly. I don't think Kyorto's getting the gunman's skin, simply because a bunch of men are about to slice him to peices. Therefore, we have only three concerns at present, in order of priority:

1) the fuckhuge cannon. Anti-golem shell it IMMEDIATLY if you can! We cannot, will not, allow that thing to fucking go off.

2) the smaller artillery. I believe that the lighting is somehow stripping it of it's magnetic feild, or that as Mordre surmised, it's made of some nonmagnetic metal.
Either way, we need a way to destroy these raidly while keeping 1) in mind. Suggestions?

3) The gunman. We're pretty sure he's toast, but we need to make that absolutely certain while keeping 1 and 2 in mind.

4) Dulu's soul and equipment must be claimed for our own.
>>
No. 176124 ID: a594b9

>>176117
Get our wooden buddy away from the impact zone! He can't take the lightning blasts, but as we are made of METAL we probably can. Just in case, I think we should try using our blade launchers and magnetomancy to deflect all cannonballs. As in, launch blades, and use them as shields.

Also, EVASIVE MANEUVERS!
>>
No. 176125 ID: 427807

I wonder if dulu's shield could protect us from the cannons...? We might as well try, i suppose.
Other then that, be cognizant of anything flying through the air towards you, and keep your magnetomancy on yourself you can quickly move out of the way at the last second if you are about to be hit.
we need some way to take out that huge cannon...
>>
No. 176126 ID: e31d52

Ozmand's MASSIVE FUCKING HAMMER might come in handy there.
>>
No. 176127 ID: a594b9

I wonder if we could use Soulfire as a screen to hide behind, or a way to deflect/destroy the cannonballs?
>>
No. 176128 ID: a594b9

>>176126
Dude, we've already used the Anti-golem Cannon.
>>
No. 176132 ID: 34e4cc

Use magnetomancy to pull rebel force armaments and weapons to yourself. Compress them into a number of solid metal spheres and use accelerator + magnetomancy to take out as many enemy cannons as possible. Then finish off Dulu as quick as possible. He's up to something behind his shield and we need to stop his constant attempts at interference for good.
>>
No. 176133 ID: 275a5d

>>176117

Order the wood/bark creature to retreat back to the Premen. There is nothing it can do right now other than get hurt.

>>176120

We've already used the Ozmand Cannon. It can't be fired again, unless we upgraded the ammo capacity at some point and I'm just not remembering correctly (we REALLY need to work on this if that is the case).

I didn't want us to have to do this, due to the ridiculous amount of souls it consumes. But we've exhausted all forms of artillery available to us except accelerator, which I don't think is going to cut it here. The only thing we have that might intercept the giant cannon is another Inferno Golem. Create it and order it to immediately rocket as fast as possible to the giant cannon, and lay waste.

Use our extended range magnetomancy to counter the smaller guns. If we can't manipulate the cannonballs, then we'll harrass the gunners. Use whatever magnetic fields you can grasp to pull the gunners off the fortress ramparts.
>>
No. 176136 ID: e31d52

OKAY, SO WE'VE USED THE AG.
That just means we'll have to improvise!

We need to get a hold of a large mass of something, anything, big and solid enough to hamper or outright annihalate the huge cannon. The rebel equipment is too far away. we can't bring it in time.
We have to use our two remaining blades to MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY...

or...

Hell, we're going to take this place anyway.

SEND THE INFERNO GOLEM [strike]AT[/strike] INTO THE GIANT CANNON, THEN ORDER IT TO EXPLODE.
>>
No. 176146 ID: 72d238

>>176136
Dang, beat me to the suggestion. But yea, tell it to rocket right into the cannon and explode.
And just so that all our work doesn't go to waste, create another fire Golem and have it streak across the front line of the other cannons.
Tell the creature to stay back and wait until we are done.
And just because we need some time, fire the AA guns again at the super cannon, aim for operators if you see em. A weak blast of death is still a blast of death.
>>
No. 176149 ID: 275a5d

>>176146
I don't think it even can fire at this point. We expended the entire charge like 20 seconds previously.
>>
No. 176153 ID: e31d52

Yeah, our only resource at this point is souls and two blades.
>>
No. 176155 ID: 72d238

That just means we have 20 seconds of laser that is not weakened by range stored up, more than enough to take out a puny human. (hopefully)
>>
No. 176156 ID: 275a5d

>>176155
Last time we did that, it couldn't even inconvenience Fang-Taker.

(It took of his shoulder pad, and that was after several minutes and at close range, not 800 meters, if I recall correctly.)
>>
No. 176160 ID: 72d238

True but Yeti are hardy and we have been upgraded. I don't think it would be devastating but it might at least provide us with 2 or 3 precious seconds before cannon fire.
>>
No. 176161 ID: 275a5d

They are? Arkus killed one with a pen.
>>
No. 176163 ID: 72d238

I mean they can stand the cold well.. and the pen is mightier than the sword, but not the golem.
>>
No. 176171 ID: 445c48

Tell the wood guy to peel off and get back to the Premen. We probably should have done that earlier, actually.

Make another Inferno Golem and send it at the fuckhuge cannon.
>>
No. 176208 ID: d3dfb8

>>176124
Blade Launcher shield seems like a plausible idea. Maybe we could augment them for this purpose later. Simply just making them thicker and more resilient and this could be one a great defensive strategy.
>>176155
AA will not work, not with 20 seconds of charge even after upgrades.
>>176153
>>176136
Souls are indeed our only resource, and that's why I say we make another inferno golem to slaughter everyone who attempts to use the cannons. If we take out the cannons operators we wont have to take out the cannons themselves and will be reclaimed for our own personal use.
The inferno golem we already have is better spent keeping the gunman from doing whatever it is he is trying to do. Order it to go on the offensive.
Don't worry about souls, there is a simple solution. Rather than just slaughter all the helpless little militiamen and collect their souls after the battle we could simply pull them to us and suck the souls out of their still living bodies.
Zombies anyone?
>>
No. 176268 ID: b7f789

And if Dulu is already dead, we want to get to him soon so that we can get his soul. Of course, he may not be dead yet, but with both legs and an arm missing, I'm going to say he's pretty damn close.
>>
No. 176283 ID: d1210a

>>176124
>>176133
>>176136
>>176146
>>176208
While I command the wood creature to retreat to safety, I make another snap decision, deciding that currently, I simply do not have enough resources at my disposal to suit my needs. I move to amend that. My left hand rises, the shadowed pit that is the Immortal Genocide coming to a halt before my mouth just as flames begin to lick out,drawn into the swirling vortex before them. Having a better sense of how the process works, I do not even slow, and send a soul from my own reserves to bind and anchor that which I now bring into existence.

INFERNO GOLEM IGNITION!
[-40 souls Total remaining: 453 Minimum: 12]

A second Inferno Golem springs into existence, every bit as blindingly bright as the first was it it's creation, and I give it no time before directing my will into it as well, sending it hurtling towards the giant cannon sprouting from the mountaintop. I flood it with thoughts of seeking fleshy targets manning the weapon to roast and burn, rather than trying to outright melt the weapon. ...As I do, I note that it is somewhat difficult to simultaneously control three bodies, my own and the two Inferno Golems. As the second of my minions streaks through the air, the dwindling first renews it's assault on the Gunman, dashing forward in an attempt to prevent the use of whatever new item the Gunman is reaching for. The Gunman's hand comes out holding a tiny bottle, one I recognize as similar to the one Dulu used during our first encounter to turn to vapor and escape me. Prioritizing the destruction of this tiny bottle above all else, I send the Inferno Golem howling about the Gunman's wavering air shield, caring not for the flames that get blasted off it's form, as it's immolated arm snaps forth, boiling the contents of the bottle and melting the glass as I see the skin on the Gunman's mouth bubble and run from the heat.

My gambit is not without it's costs, as the gunman thrusts his wand into the belly of my minion, dropping his air shield as he does, before a miniature typhoon rips the Inferno Golem apart, an explosion of flame, light and wind scouring the landscape. I see a charred and smoking Gunman struggling to rise, the flesh of his lips melted away to reveal a skeletal grin beneath as he continues to flop about. His backpack was hurled away from him, and at some ten feet distance, I think he would have issue reaching it in his current state. ...Still, the only thing distracting the Gunman and preventing his escape is now gone.

I make use of my nimble and fluid movement while controlling my own magnetic fields to dodge the incoming barrage of cannon rounds, flashes of light and resounding thunder reporting misses falling away behind me as I press on.

My newly created Inferno Golem dips out of sight, it's brilliant light moving about erratically for a time near the cannon's base, before rising back into the air on a plume of fire, awaiting new orders, missing perhaps a seventh of it's original mass. The massive cannon, while still aimed at me, stands still and silent.

I am now some six hundred meters distance from the fighting.

The State forces led by the bald mage and the Rebel forces led by the man in the blood-soaked toga surge forward and clash with the furious scream of hundreds of struggling combatants, with the State looking to take the lead with their momentum and superior numbers. But they are brought to a gory halt as the one wearing the bloody toga dashes deep into the heart of the state forces, making no effort to defend himself... and all those who strike at him fall, bleeding from vicious wounds made by no blade I can see Confusion compounds the death being spread, and the tide shifts to favor the rebels fighting forward in an attempt to capitalize on what their leader has wrought. I see the bald mage shoving and fighting his way through the melee in pursuit of the rebel captain.

Dulu's shield has not shifted since falling to cover what is left of his body, so I must assume his body is still present, and the Gunman, a scant two hundred feet from the castle, with nothing blocking his path, seems to find the notion of standing impossible right now, let alone continuing his flight. ....I also see rebels swarming over the two damaged cannon blisters of four guns each, hauling away the crippled cannons as the bustle about the outpost builds.


What should I do, should I continue trying to close distance so I can use my other armaments as soon as possible, or should I slow down to redirect my Magnetomancy to any of the conflicts about the battlefield?
Or should I do something else?
What should I prioritize for my new, relatively fresh Inferno Golem?
>>
No. 176291 ID: e31d52

>>176283
Inferno golem: kill everything on the roof or floor you've landed on. EVERYTHING. THAT. MOVES.

Mordre: Finish off Dulu. If he's not under the sheild, then shove it into your body to spit out later, and join in the fighting.
>>
No. 176293 ID: 64d076

>>176283

Have the Inferno golem destroy the crews working the huge gun...then have it come help us with dulu/gunman. As for the Rebel ground forces, chuck a few more barrages of gravel toward them...aside from that just continue to close distance with dulu/gunman.
>>
No. 176297 ID: a594b9

The Inferno Golem should attack the blood-soaked leader.

The cannon crews are focused on us, and have no goddamned chance of hitting us. They can be dealt with after the leader is dead.
>>
No. 176301 ID: 2aaaf1

>>176283
Tell the golem to seek out just who is operating the big cannon and fry them. If that isn't possible for the inferno golem, tell it to harass everyone on the ramparts, the rebels must gain no support from their outpost. Can you extend your magnetic field over to the large cannon and direct it towards the rebels on the ground, or towards somewhere that isn't pointed at us? You were able to affect a bunch of the rebels at 800 meters away, surely moving the cannon a few degrees wouldn't be out of your grasp, right?
>>
No. 176302 ID: 445c48

Send the inferno golem after the Rebel captain.

Keep running towards Dulu. If you see the Gunman do anything suspicious, basically anything other than fall down into a heap on the ground, attempt to shoot him with AA, if that's been charged yet.
>>
No. 176347 ID: 427807

>>176291
i second this.

The rebel leader is terrifying. We need to engage him as soon as we finish off dulu and gunman. His magic must only work at close range, and the blood soaked thing must mean blood magic... my guess is that he is somehow repelling closeby enemies weapon's into themselves...
>>
No. 176350 ID: 45be60

>>176347
No, that's not it, it says no visible weapon causes the wounds. He is using his magic to inflict the wounds his attackers would cause back to themselves.

So attacking him with something that would not hurt the one doing the attacking (like fire from a fire construct) sounds like a really good idea, even as reluctant as I am to pull the fire golem off the giant cannon. Can we at least do something to slag that thing before we send him to engage?
>>
No. 176363 ID: 445c48

Oh yeah, I thought it already killed everyone around the cannon.

Actually, hell, let's just throw another Inferno Golem at the captain while the second one keeps killing people near the big cannon. We got plenty of souls, and this is kind of a large battle, we should still get a fair number before they dissipate.
>>
No. 176365 ID: bbdfae

>>176363
Each golem that we add requires some of our mental focus to control. It's pointless to summon more if they're just going to stand around uselessly. I don't know how far we can push our control, but there's definitely diminishing returns.

How fast do the soul soldiers move? Could we send them instead?
>>
No. 176366 ID: 445c48

>>176365
Yeah, but we seemed to be able to control two at a time well enough.
>>
No. 176373 ID: 18abb2

Tell the Inferno golem to grab the cannon and chuck it into the fray, two birds one stone. Then have it take the place of its predecessor and take out Dulu/Gunman. This isn't really our fight so we should deal with our agenda before we offer any more help.
>>
No. 176376 ID: 8276a0

Let us eat Dulu and the Gunman, damn it. I want hero souls!
>>
No. 176386 ID: a982bb

>>176376
Thoroughly seconded.

To all the people advocating having the inferno golem attack Dulu and the gunman: they're out of the fight, we just need to finish them off.
>>
No. 176391 ID: d1210a

>>176363
[That is correct, the Inferno Golem already did, and if no one had pointed this out, the following would not happen. Good eye.]

>>176291
>>176293
>>176301
>>176347
I continue to send thoughts of killing the operators of the giant cannon to the Inferno Golem, but it continues to float in place. I abruptly realize the brief, frenzied movement I saw it undertake out of sight near the cannon's base was likely just that. Instead, I switch my attention to those rebels visible on the walls, and my minion soars back down the rocky ridge the outpost is built into, and darts about the top of the outpost at my command, whizzing past all laboring atop the structure. Flesh cracks, burns, and bubbles as people scream even from being near the intense heat the still relatively fresh golem has, and shortly no one is visible manning any of the cannons atop the fortress, though I imagine more soldiers are within the keep's walls. The golem looks to only have four fifths of it's mass left now, still plenty for further action.

I draw within five hundred meters of the Gunman and Dulu, the targets I have gone through all this effort for.

>>176297
>>176302
>>176350
Hm.... unless I miss my guess, that warrior in a bloody toga leading the Rebels is somehow reflecting attacks back at those who strike him, somehow causing their intended harm to 'jump' back to them. So, he throws any attack at him back, eh?

I wonder how well he shall deal with fire?

With a thought I send the Inferno Golem streaking towards his position, and the frenzied fighting slows as facing turn to squint in awe at the living sun approaching them. The rebel leader turns from cutting down two swordsmen to receive a an immolated fist to his face.

For a moment he seems unharmed, as fires swirl about my minion's own face. But as time passes with my golem still shoving his fist against his foe, burning away it's own existence, I watch blood drying out of the toga the rebel wears, revealing it's stark white coloration in patches. As the last of the blood boils out of the cloth, I witness the man's face incinerating as my golem's assault is finally rewarded, and the Inferno Golem burns so fiercely it turns the man and his accoutrements to ash... all save for the toga, which drifts to the ground. My golem is diminished from this action, and is now some half it's original size.

The fighting has paused as all struggled to flee from the horrendous heat of my progeny, already igniting the ground it stands on, when it plunged into the middle of the fight. I see several desperately casting off metal armor grown to hot to bear as a circle widens about the Inferno Golem, with the bald mage wading forward, shouting orders to press the attack on the rebels. I note many of the rebels are looking at my creation with pure terror.

I see the rebel outpost doors beginning to open once more.

Dulu shows no signs of stirring beneath his shield, and the Gunman has managed to crawl closer to his bag, shakily moving forward, but still unable to even stand.

I am now some two hundred meters from Dulu and the Gunman-

And I can now sense the masses of metal involved in the State/Rebel clash my golem interrupted, even without warping the shape of my field of influence. ....I can even feel the blood of my two prey.

Oh...

Make that blood flowing through my one remaining prey. Most excellent, such an ignominious and inconsequential death.

Mordre has truly arrived on the field of battle, and woe betide all who would dare risk my wrath!


What should I do?
What orders or priorities should I transmit to the Inferno Golem?
>>
No. 176394 ID: e31d52

>>176391
"Mage Mordre has truly arrived on the field of battle, and woe betide all who would dare risk my wrath!"

SAY IT. SCREAM IT.
>>
No. 176395 ID: 275a5d

Devour Dulu's soul.

Move to the gunman. "'You will know my return when all you possess turns to ruin about you.' I trust you won't mind if I borrow that line?"

Curbstomp his head. Eat soul.

Meanwhile, order your inferno golem to take position at the opening gate. They're either surrendering or trying to rush make a mad dash to escape. Either way, the golem will serve as a deterrent.
>>
No. 176396 ID: 275a5d

Oh, and embed one of your vanguard blades in front of his backpack, between it and the gunman. To act as a sort of mini-wall.

Don't want him getting any funny ideas, after all.
>>
No. 176397 ID: d3dfb8

>>176394
Not this.
>>176395
This, but dont curb stomp we want to atleast try and see if his skin is still good enough for use.
>>176396
And this.
>>
No. 176401 ID: bbdfae

>>176391
Dammit, we just burned away toga-man's soul. Curse our impatience, for it would have been delicious.

Devour Dulu's soul now, then proceed to the gunman. If the gunman- or his bag- have enough metal in them to manipulate, yank them towards you. We probably don't want him to successfully get anything out of it.

Before devouring the gunman's soul, assess if his flesh is intact enough to work for Kyorto's purposes. If not, we may wish to incapacitate him so that we can have him healed before disposing of him; based upon the strength of that aeromancy, he would provide a potent portion of her required five skins.

At this point I think we've pretty much secured the field, so having the Inferno Golem burn up souls which we could potentially devour is a waste. Direct it to destroy anyone attempting to flee the field, since we wouldn't get those souls otherwise anyway.
>>
No. 176402 ID: 2aaaf1

>>176395
Agreed. But instead of curbstomp, grab him and look into his eyes, then snap his spine like we did to Barcho. This man is no better than the pawn he intended to rule with while sitting upon a lofty throne in the shadows, it is only befitting that he perishes in the same manner.
>>
No. 176410 ID: a594b9

I think keeping the gunman alive until Jojo can heal his flesh is a good idea. Unless his skin is intact enough anyway. Then we just break his neck.
>>
No. 176411 ID: a594b9

Oh, also, fuck with the metal of the rebel troops again. That's always good for a laugh.
>>
No. 176424 ID: e21014

>>176391

I think we should just have the inferno golem go back to the opening fortress doors to generally smash things. As for modre, its dulu/gunman smashin time!
>>
No. 176428 ID: 18abb2

>>176396
Good Idea

What is with you guys and keeping enemies alive!?
The time it takes to heal him would give him plenty of time to recover his magic reserves and hatch a plan to escape. Judging by the way he handled himself just now, no-one save us could handle him and we are a machine of death, not a babysitter.

If you want mage skin intact, just attack him with normal soul solders and have them do to it what Verther did. In fact, if he wasn't so messed up already I would suggest that the Inferno Golem use some of its essence to do just that.
>>
No. 176430 ID: a594b9

>>176428
We can't make normal soul soldiers without nearby souls amongst the battlefield.

Besides, I think Jojo might be able to heal just his skin...
>>
No. 176445 ID: 275a5d

>>176430
This is a good point.
>>
No. 176447 ID: bbdfae

>>176428
What is it with you guys and killing everyone as your first and only answer? Think less of the battle and more of the campaign; every encounter should leave us with more souls, powers, information, minions, and reputation than we had when we started it if at all possible. If we kill all enemies on the field but don't gain resources, we are not successful.

If nothing else, leaving the gunman alive for at least a short while will afford us the opportunity to interrogate him. Who knows what priceless information he has which we might not fully extract in a soul devouring?
>>
No. 176450 ID: 275a5d

>>176447
His lips have been melted off (his tongue likely in little better condition) and he must be near catatonic from the pain. He's in no condition to give us useful information, and will probably die from his wounds in a few moments, anyway.

Honestly, I feel kinda bad for the guy. And then I, y'know, remember that he executed a school full of children and painted a message in their blood.
>>
No. 176451 ID: 427807

The gunman's skin is fucked, kyorto will not take it. we should kill him and suck his soul, suck dulu's soul, then take out the remaining rebels. I dont think another inferno golem would be useful now, and from where we are, soul soldiers are not an option.
so yeah, kill gunman, soulsuck, then sprint to the rebels and cut them to shreds
>>
No. 176453 ID: 18abb2

>>176447
I'm all for the non-aggressive(well at least not as aggressive) method of doing things, heck, I wasn't even too keen on the surprise attack Idea but since we already went down this path, don't try and turn it around and end up losing what you already have.
>>
No. 176454 ID: d1210a
File 127368897679.jpg - (92.07KB , 466x734 , Rebel Commander.jpg )
176454

rolled 10 = 10

[Rolling a d13 for Dulu, Interesting things can happen if a roll of 7 or 13 is had.]

>>176394
>>176395
>>176397
>>176402
>>176424
I continue racing towards my two targets, taking note that while it is slow, the Gunman is making progress at reaching his bag. To further deter this from being a possible issue, I direct my Magnetomancy towards one of my two remaining Anti Vanguard Blades, and blast if forth, sending it whirling through the air. As the Gunman's trembling hands pull him even closer to his target, the blade I launched slices into the ground betwixt him and his bag, and I see the determination that had allowed him to push through his pain waver, and crumble before my unrelenting onslaught, my dedicated removal of all his chances to survive. The burned gunman feels... smaller, now, even though I sense no change in his blood-flow, or the cessation of any gathered magic, but nevertheless he feels far more in tune with the deathly still form of Dulu.

While I continue pounding across the landscape to reach my targets, so tantalizingly close, I direct my Inferno Golem to relocate before the opening gates of the outpost, to prevent whatever else may be emerging from unduly influencing the State forces mopping up the remaining insurgents still battling them on the field. My minion responsively blazes through the air to plummet earthward before the gates, illuminating the shifting forms charging forth from the outpost. I see more than a dozen well-outfitted warriors, each wearing a bloody toga, charge forth, one of their number wearing not a simple toga, but a full length cloak, likewise stained with blood, as well as bearing a great sword with runes and symbols of lightning worked into it's length. I also note a heavy jug handing from his side, with brown, red and black stains about it's top. This odd man out roars a command, and the toga wearing warriors charge out alongside him, a scant fifteen warriors joining the field..... but with all bearing those togas.......

I see the bald mage spotting the new arrivals, and I see him recognize the attire they sport. The color starts to drain out of his face even as he continues to lead the State forces in routing the rebels about them, clearly fearful of the new arrivals. Some four hundred of the State forces still stand and fight. Based on this, it seems likely the mage is unsure how to combat such foes.

I quickly assess my Inferno Golem, some four ninths it's original size, but still possessing a great deal of potency, if I can use it appropriately. Nevertheless, the means I used to destroy the previous rebel was costly to my construct, and I have doubts I could do the same to all these new arrivals with just the one Inferno Golem.

I finally am forced to decelerate, as I near my two prey. This also means I can fully apply Magnetomancy to anything in range freely, as I no longer need to move so expeditiously.

>>176428
As I near the Gunman, separated by a foot and a saw-toothed blade from his backpack, I consider his skin. True, it is burned and melted in many locations, but if I were to wish it, I believe there may be a chance that, should I keep the Gunman alive long enough, Jojo may be able to restore his skin to wholeness, allowing me to harvest it for Kyorto. I still have collected only the one skin for her.

I begin considering what action I should take, simply killing the Gunman and harvesting his soul here and now, or holding off in the hopes of future greater rewards. As I do this, I turn to look at the staff-turned-shield covering Dulu to find....
>>
No. 176455 ID: d1210a

>>176454
...That beneath his shield, naught but a corpse sits, already bereft of the warmth of life. I can even see some broken and still partly frozen ribs jutting out from the ruin where his right shoulder and arm once rested, and I take satisfaction in his death.

...Still, there is much to attend to on this battlefield.


What should I do?
What orders should I transmit to my Inferno Golem, currently at slightly less than half power?
>>
No. 176458 ID: 2aaaf1

>>176454
>>176455
Tell the inferno golem to come back while we gather up the gunman's pack and dulu's shield and soul. The inferno golem will babysit our defeated foe, and we will engage the rebels. These toga clad rebels have an abundance of blood for us to manipulate, if we can steal the blood from them, they become vulnerable once more. Their new leader must be dealt with personally, we lost one hero soul from the rebel forces, we will not lose another.
>>
No. 176459 ID: 427807

SOULSUCK WHILE THE ASSHOLE'S BODY IS IN YOUR GRASP!
We need to think of a quick and dirty way of eliminating the twelve or so blood-soaked toga-wearing bastards, plus their supposed leader in the cloak. Im thinking soulfire would be helpful, but i dont think it will completrly kill all of them. anyone have ideas?
>>
No. 176460 ID: 275a5d

We need a power boost, what with all that we've expended thus far. Take Dulu's soul and salvage his weapon (Given Ulzrick's demonstrated aptitude with morphic weaponry, I think we should consider giving it to him once we've completed his training). Maybe it will form a new nexus, or join with the one we already have. Who knows.

The fading you sense in the gunman is the fact that he's rapidly DYING. Unless you actually have a method to heal or preserve his still-living body, we can't do anything other than salvage his soul.

Unless, of course, the gunman does not need to be alive when we repair the skin. Making flesh whole seems a different thing from restoring life and vitality.

For the warriors in blood-bond togas:

The key here is to use the least force possible to wear away their blood-magic resistance. As such, I suggest the following: After you've consumed the souls of Dulu and (possibly) the gunman, begin harvesting the blood-iron of the following.

Have you ever seen what a full-force sandstorm can do to unprotected flesh? Magnetomancy-manipulated iron particles could potentially do much the same, and would do little damage to our metal form (erosion takes a long time to work over).

At the same time, command the inferno golem to do thus:

GRAB AS MANY TOGA-WEARERS AS YOU CAN.
ROCKET A FEW HUNDRED METERS INTO THE AIR.
LET GO.
RINSE. REPEAT.
>>
No. 176461 ID: d3dfb8

>>176455
Souls!
Take Dulu's soul, if it is still there.
>>
No. 176462 ID: 427807

>>176458
Inferno golems are not long-lasting creatures, if we have it guard gunman, its going to disappear in a matter of minutes. Kill the gunamn here and now, then engage the others.
Hmm, maybe we can just pull the iron out of the blood in the cloth with magnetomancy?
>>
No. 176463 ID: 275a5d

>>176462
This is a possibility, as long as the blood isn't shield from manipulation like the rune-cannons, somehow.
>>
No. 176467 ID: 275a5d

Actually, you know what? I'm a dunce.

I completely forgot that magical defenses are utterly useless against us, as Immortal Genocide's primary function completely dispells that shit.
>>
No. 176468 ID: a594b9

I have an idea of how to kill the toga-wearers. Magnetomancy their weapons into eachother. They can't very well reflect injuries into another toga-wearer now can they?

Alternatively, perhaps we can remove the togas.

The inferno golem should concentrate his attack against the rebel commander.

Also, take the pack away from the Gunman, and break his limbs. Suck out Dulu's soul right now before it has a chance to physically manifest and fuck everything up.
>>
No. 176492 ID: 445c48

Eat Dulu's soul, kill the gunman, eat HIS soul. We can get skins later. Maybe train some up and arrange... accidents. Not the thing to do in the middle of a fight that needs to be done.
>>
No. 176499 ID: 8276a0

>>176492
Hush. If we can get a skin out of this, it's better for all of us. If the gunman dies and we can't safe the skin, too bad, but lets not hurry the process along. But yeah, lets suck Dulu and start kicking some ass from where were's hunkered down. Inferno Golem start harassing folk inside the base. We could spawn some souls to go kick the Bloody Toga's in the teeth. Lets try out our Ruby Eyes again - beam spam!
>>
No. 176503 ID: 18abb2

>>176468
O.o maybe it will keep reflecting the damage until the togas EXPLODE!!! Seconding.

I think the force you sense leaving the gunman is his will to live. Humans are tough that way and just the will to live can cause amazing things to happen.

Have the Golem annihilate the toga guys with its essence, like a normal IG creation. If that ain't possible then just IMPACT CRATER!!!!!

Devour Dulu's soul and then walk in front of the Gunman, grab his wand and throw it away.

"You were indeed correct, I am far more powerful than you with my golem, though it appears that your level of power was more than enough to slay an entire village. Whatever hope you have, relinquish it, for not even the cold embrace of Death will extinguish my fury. Be tormented forever in a sea of soulfire"
>>
No. 176562 ID: 716eb0

>>176468
Yeah, this is a good idea. The power seems fueled by the blood on their togas, and if it loops back on itself, it will burn through that fuel quickly.

Failing that, it may be possible to pull the iron out of the blood and render it less useful.
>>
No. 176579 ID: d1210a

>>176459
>>176460
>>176462
>>176492
>>176503
I grab the weakly struggling Gunman, and lift him before my visage. Now that I look at him directly, his face is a ruin, an eye blinded and part melted, his lips melted away with blood running from a myriad of burst blisters and cracks threading through his skin. Now that I reflect on it, the sense of finality I get from him could be his personal sense of defeat, as the alert eyes that gazed at me earlier are now flat and listless. I can feel the blood leaking from his body, feel his life draining away, and speak to this dying man I hold.

""You were quite correct, Gunman, In your assertions at Berluut: I am indeed more powerful than you. With this Soul Grave to call upon, The power that let you kill those of Berluut, None of it can measure up to this. And so for your transgressions, For opposing me and calling me foe, Your life and soul are mine."

The gunman coughs up sputum and blood before weakly replying.

"I walked my own path in life,
And I won't regret it now.
If this is where it ends, so be it."

I snap the Gunman's neck while I pull free his soul, finally feasting on my foe's soul.

+1 HERO SOUL (HUMAN): KEEN-EYED BALBOA THE BUTCHER

My newly acquired Heroic soul flows into my body, not coming to rest in any single place as most souls have, but joining Merrack The Swift in diffusing throughout the whole of my body.... no, that isn't quite right, it pervades the whole of the magical matrices that drive me. Balboa's soul seems to settle within the foundations of my artillery, merging itself with the existing magic present there. From the dead man's thoughts, I realize he had devised a way to create a vacuum path devoid even of air, for his shots to travel, and this was the source of his preternatural aim that found Keddic's flesh so often in their exchange. All forms of artillery I use now should have significantly improved speed, thanks to Balboa's influence, and I happily await testing just how much my weapons have improved.

With the power come other memories, flitting thoughts going through my head.... Thoughts I raptly focus on when I realize Balboa had not just recently met Dulu, the two had worked together on several occasions. ....Yes, yes, it seems the Balboa, and his puppet Barcho had served someone, murky thoughts of a terrifying and powerful mage passing through my mind as I try to discern their identity. The last thought I am left with before the soul and its memories finish fusing with me and escape my perusal, is that Balboa knows the man in the blood-soaked coat, an individual named Daobo leading the insurgents here.... and a fellow student of the mage Balboa served.

Most interesting.

As the instant in which I consume Balboa's soul passes, I hear a scream of rage from the direction of the outpost, and track it to Daobo himself, his face fill of hate as he stares at the corpse in my hand.

"I'LL SEE YOU PAY FOR BALBOA'S DEATH, YOU MONSTER!"

Without further comment Daobo leads a mad charge straight towards me, as if the Inferno Golem barring his way were not even present. ....And I let them pass it by, as a fiendish thought enters my mind. Some of the toga-adorned soldiers following Daobo look at the stationary Inferno Golem with curiosity, but fools that they are they continue to follow their leader. Already, they are a scant hundred feet away from me, and I must admit having distracted them so is most helpful. As they charge ever nearer, I wounder what could make them think they could hurt me.... until I recall seeing runes on at least one sword among them- to see that all bear inscribed weapons. I cast out my Magnetomantic senses, seeking the weapons that will soon be directed at me.... to find them invisible to my magic, unassailable within their bearers' grasp.

Thankfully, the blood in their toga and cloaks is not so insulated.

As they close to within fifty feet of me, I focus all of my Magnetomancy into systematically wrenching free every bit of iron from the blood staining their attire, gray mists forming about them as their togas fade in color. Even Daobo, enraged as he is, skids to a halt as he regards the cloud that now envelopes his force. I see his eyes widen as he looks down at his cloak, to find it no longer scarlet, but a dark, dry brown.

"Fear not, for you shall see Balboa again.... Very, very soon, in fact.... Goodbye."

I set the swarm of Blood iron dust I control to swirling about, faster and faster, and within moments the warriors before me drop to the ground screaming in agony as their flesh is slowly scoured away by the ironstorm I hold about them. Their deaths are not swift in the making, but I have no qualms with being patient, and several long moments later they grow quiet and still. I swiftly compress the Blood Iron I withdrew from them together, and letting the resultant mass fall to the ground as I finally have a chance to walk the last twenty feet separating me from Dulu's corpse. I kick over his shield to inspect his corpse, and-

>>176461
....Where is Dulu's Soul?
No mass of energy is to be perceived anywhere near his corpse, what-what is going on!?
I SLEW THE GOLEMSLAYER, SO WHERE IS HIS SOUL!?

The sounds of State and surviving rebel forces clashing behind me starts to die down, but I barely notice the change, so caught up in this turn of events. ...How, HOW is his soul not here? Yes, I killed him at a distance and it took me some time to get here, but I was attentive, if his soul had manifested I would have seen it! There is no question that Dulu would have a Heroic soul, and there is no way such a potent existence could dissipate in the space of minutes.... So where is it? Where is the second of the prizes I seek!?

I apathetically grab Dulu's shield, which reverts to it's default form of an octagonal staff as I touch it, and stow it in the now-empty barrel of the Anti-Golem Cannon, now serving as an excellent makeshift staff-holster.

....I still have difficulty accepting it, but no matter where I turn my gaze or how I cast out my senses, I can find no evidence of Dulu's soul.... though I can feel Daobo's soul reforming into a static form, likely also a Heroic soul.

...That makes it TWICE that I have sought Dulu's soul.... and failed to gain it.


What should I do?
What orders should I give to the Inferno Golem (still at some four-ninth's remaining power, standing before the open gates of the outpost)?
>>
No. 176581 ID: 445c48

Well, puzzle's later, go eat Daobo's soul.

Maybe Dulu had an item on him that stored his soul, so it wouldn't be eaten by you? Or maybe a spell of similar effect.

Or maybe the fucker's just hiding.

Toss on Soulsuck for the Non-Heroic souls too. And eat that bloodorb if you think you can do it quickly. Otherwise, reshape it and shove it in your cannon alongside the staff.
>>
No. 176582 ID: 05b238

Dammit! I knew I should have posted my theory before the soul eating took place, It's unlikely that I would get a Pristine soul from It now...

That bastard Dulu got away again, I know not how he did it, but that is the only explanation other than he sold his soul or something! Gah!
>>
No. 176584 ID: e31d52

Oh fuck. OH FUCK.

Dulu wasn't a person. HE WAS A FUCKING FLESH GOLEM.
>>
No. 176586 ID: e31d52

>>176584
Scratch that.

He had a fucking contingency plan.

Well, at the very least, we have his weapon.

You have an army to slay, mordre. YOU HAVE HUGE NUMBERS OF SOULS! RIP AND TEAR! RIP AND TEAR YOU AND EAT YOUR SOULS
>>
No. 176587 ID: a594b9

>>176579
I bet it's hiding in the staff. Waiting for the right moment to escape. Or perhaps some other item he had?

Inhale. We should lure him out of hiding.

Tell the Inferno Golem to assist the state forces. Without setting them on fire. Can we tell it to follow their orders?
>>
No. 176590 ID: 275a5d

>>176579

AHAHAHAHA. Wonderful!

In all honesty, I thought him dead for sure, yet he seems to have escaped us once again.

I have a rather sneaking suspicion, here. Once you've done as is in >>176581 , inspect "Dulu's" body. The only way he wouldn't leave behind a heroic soul is if his body had no soul at the time of his destruction, as I understand things. Perhaps he was a kind of flesh construct.

For the inferno golem, sending it into the keep is just going to set a lot of shit on fire. See if you can re-incorporate it and the souls it contains into your furnace, to recover some of our lost resources.
>>
No. 176591 ID: 275a5d

>>176587
Oh. OH. That's good...COULD the staff be storing his soul, somehow? We don't know what half the runes on it actually do, after all...
>>
No. 176592 ID: 445c48

>>176591
Yeah, probably. We'll want to have someone search his corpse again later, though, someone with smaller hands.
>>
No. 176593 ID: 275a5d

ALSO: Quick question: Did we gain any measure of Aeromantic knowledge?
>>
No. 176594 ID: 716eb0

Is it possible his soul was already drawn away? Would you have noticed it traveling? I am unclear on the nature of your perceptions.

The man was so tied to his weapon, it is possible it has a claim on his very soul, and the prize you seek is already stored in your shoulder. Even if it does not, this is still a great prize. There is a warrior cum mage back at the Arcanoworks who could likely make great use of this weapon.

In any event, you did not come here to help these state soldiers, and though I am sure they appreciate the assistance, I do not see any great need to storm in to the midst of the fight now. You have, after all, single handedly ended four or five of the greatest threats on the battlefield. If they cannot claim victory now, they did not deserve to be here. Instead, collect what you can of the fallen warriors who challenged you. They have souls, and blood of their own to fuel your power. You have expended many souls today in helping these men, it is only fair that you collect payment.

That is not to say your Inferno Golem should stop assisting though. He may as well spend the rest of his short life continuing to turn the tide of battle.
>>
No. 176598 ID: 275a5d

We're definately going to have to salvage Daobo's sword, as well. The runecrafts Arkus could learn from the devices and weapons used at this site are...

...just, WOW, this could be good for us.
>>
No. 176599 ID: 445c48

>>176598
Oh yes, that too.

Hold on eating blood iron, make it into a small backpack or bag or something and put the magic weapons in it. If they are too small for your GIGANTIC FIST, manipulate the bloodiron AROUND the sword, and then move that.
>>
No. 176604 ID: 2aaaf1

>>176579
Keddic is getting Daobo's cloak should it still be intact, Jojo is getting one of those togas- hell, let's send a bunch back to Mosmordreden. From what we saw of the fight between Mingsk and Fekk, they both possess powerful blood magic that could only grow stronger from boons such as these. Should the other shaman of the Drazken be any bit as capable as those two, the safety of the frostbacks would be almost set in stone.
>>
No. 176614 ID: 05b238

Oh right, I forgot about the blood Iron. Save some of it for the creature, we did promise it food and it seemed to show interest in it last time.
>>
No. 176628 ID: 8276a0

Scream 'DUUULLUUUU!' to the sky, shaking one of our great fists. Soul suck -everything-! Carefully as we can gather up the bodies and items of Dulu and Rocky Balboa.

Walk towards the leader of the State's Army with a mighty laugh and a casual fucking with of the rebel's metal items.
"GREETINGS, ALEXANDER ARMSTRONG! I AM THE MAGE MORDRE! THANK YOU FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE! FORGIVE ME BUT WHEN I GET ANGRY This unit gets quite temperamental. Mhm. I do believe I HAVE IT WORKING AGAIN! GAH! STUPID REBELS! STOP MAKING ME ANGRY! IT IS SCARING MY CAT AND MAKING IT HARD TO FOCUS!"
>>
No. 176629 ID: 275a5d

>>176628
I...wha?
>>
No. 176630 ID: 445c48

>>176628
>Scream 'DUUULLUUUU!' to the sky, shaking one of our great fists.

Second. Don't think we should do the second part yet, still fightan to do.
>>
No. 176631 ID: 05b238

>>176628
The ef' O.o
This cracks me up. I keep imagining Mordre screaming Dulu in the same voice as Ricky Ricardo.
"DUUULLUUUU, u got some 'splanin to do"
>>
No. 176641 ID: 8276a0

>>176630
Well, do we have anything else to do other then fuck with the rebel' and let Armstrong's soldiers clean up the base? Seems like a good moment as any to make a good impression to a perspective ally. Possibly something very Hammy and funny and in character.

Anyway, fist-shaking for Dulu while screaming his name. We have found our Ahab,and a suitable quote would be 'To the last, I will grapple with thee... from Hell's heart, I stab at thee! For hate's sake, I spit my last breath at thee!', but that might be referencing 'Wrath of Khan' too strongly.

Anyway, we collect the bodies carefully and any items the two might have and we take half the blood-iron, half going to the wood critter, and soul suck while giving a Hammy greeting to Alexander Armstrong and helping as best we can while lasering and magicing the rebels.
>>
No. 176642 ID: 275a5d

>>176641
I don't think the second part is all that funny, really. We should probably leave it out, as it seems like trying too hard.
>>
No. 176644 ID: 275a5d

>>176642
The fist shaking is fine, assuming our theory doesn't pan out.
>>
No. 176645 ID: 275a5d

Also, words cannot express my rage that you just specifically mentioned Ahab, then had the audacity to say that it was referencing fucking Wrath of Khan.

>:(
>>
No. 176646 ID: 8276a0

>>176642
Well, true, I seem to be unable to pull off a good hammy dialog, but someone come up with -something- we can say while we walk dramatically to Alexander while just tossing Rebels about.
>>
No. 176650 ID: 8276a0

>>176645
Fist waggling at the sky? Screaming? We are pulling such a Shatner.
>>
No. 176654 ID: 2aaaf1

>>176641
Can the wood creature even eat the metal? Nevermind the fact that we told it to retreat, I was under the assumption that it only ate world motes and multicolored energy from other dead tree-things. But hey, I'm down with a ally composed of petrified wood.
>>
No. 176657 ID: 8276a0

>>176614
Just echoing this statement.
>>
No. 176668 ID: d1210a

>>176593
[You did not, as Balboa's souls was classified as a HERO soul rather than a MAGE soul, due to his skill in magic being mostly based around item use. The bullet speed increase is what you get for him.]

>>176628
>>176330
>>176331
>>176641
I raise a mighty steel fist to the sky, a grip that could crush stone tightening as a rumbling, vengeful oath is given voice, a verbal assertion of my determination to finish what I have started, to claim....

"DUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUULLLLLLUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!"

>>176581
>>176594
As enraged as I feel that Dulu escaped my grasp again, I turn to more important matters, as ever thankful that I lack the parts that seem to make meatbags so emotional and inefficient: I can maintain clear rational function... even in the midst of a seething hate for my escaped quarry. I distract myself by claiming Balboa's six hand-cannons and stowing them again in his bag before claiming the whole ensemble, then making my way over to Daobo and his fellow toga-bearers, re-staining their attire with their own fresh blood, although it is far too late to save them. Flesh and muscle have been stripped from bone, and not even a quiver denotes the recent life that was once in these bodies. I multitask, pulling the iron out of the freshly spilled blood of my foes to add to the existing lump stolen from their clothes while I draw in the ambient souls, focusing on Daobo's clearer, sharper soul first, hoping to prevent another escape. I brook no argument, and the only recently reformed souls cannot withstand my demands, and are promptly consumed.

+1 MAGE SOUL (HUMAN): DAOBO THE BLOODY
[+14 Souls (human). Souls Remaining: 467 Minimum: 12]

As I feast, Daobo's soul sinks deep into my core, permeating my existence with new understanding of magic.... Blood magic, to be precise. With his soul I feel precious knowledge, ability fusing with my existence, a new type of magic starting to open before me. ....Sadly, the knowledge I gain is incomplete, a superior version of my basic World knowledge. And yet, despite the fragmentary structure of the new magical principles and ability I absorbed, I feel the Blood Iron I am manipulating abruptly surge in responsiveness, far easier to command than just a scant moment ago... yet the rest of the metals I sense feel no different. ...Hm, perhaps the lessons I have gained from Daobo are of some use after all, if one cares to look. Where Magnetomancy and Blood magic intercept, I now will perform more ably than previously, even if I do not yet have a direct command of Blood magic.

Daobo, like Balboa, was a student of the shadowed mage I saw in the gunman's dying thoughts, and their image begins to grow more clear. An older, wizened individual that is both respected and feared alike, one who instructed them in the ways of magic, betwixt using them in his machinations. Faces of assorted ages and styles war within my psyche to match with this mage, dozens of memories struggling, before I get a name: Weinsho.......ah, Archmage Weinsho. Strangely enough, no memory of Dulu is to be found within the soul, and as it finishes merging with me I lose access to the flood of memories, retaining only what I have already perceived.

Carefully using Sable Executioner to expedite the process, I begin claiming and tightly folding the togas and cloak alike, packing them away into Balboa's bag. While I do this, I likewise claim their runed weapons, paying special attention to Daobo's weapon, a heavy, single-edged cleaver covered in runes and symbols of lightning. I even note that the heavy jug strapped to Daobo's side is filled with blood, and add it's iron to the growing mass I collect. I then shape the Blood iron into a multi-slot scabbard, to house all the enchanted weapons I claimed, and stow both it and Balboa's back in my left hand, protectively covering my spoils with my steel fingers.

>>176587
>>176590
>>176591
>>176592
Paranoia and frustration both gripping me, I turn back to Dulu's corpse, even as I attempt to inhale a soul from my own Anti Golem Cannon and the staff it holds, partway convinced Dulu may be hiding in his own weapon. Finding such to not be the case, I instead closely inspect his body, dissecting it neatly with Sable Executioner as I look for something, anything to tell me what happened, or where his soul went.... but nothing I find in his carcass seems out of place, the normal gore of a dead fleshling to be found, and nothing more. I dejectedly turn away from the defaced body, wondering what could have happened to the only one to get away.....

I start moving to salvage further souls and Blood Iron alike, while I devote part of my focus to commanding the diminished Inferno Golem in an attempt to expedite the rebel's defeat. My minion crafted of fire and life darts about, searing the life out of all it touches, and in short order the rebels finally break, throwing down their weapons in surrender. With only a fourth of it's original mass left, I send the Inferno Golem in one final sweep, seeking any brave fools trying to rearm the outpost's artillery, a task it sets to with gusto, dwindling to nothing just as it slips over the rock ridge about the massive cannon's base. As the State forces work to secure their new prisoners, I see the bald mage turning a hard eye towards me as I make my way across the battlefield, carefully drawing Blood Iron behind the shelter of my own bulky form, keeping my action hidden while I focus on my other motive: Harvesting souls. As I make my rounds, I continue to add the Blood iron I claim to the existing scabbard set in my hand, at least ten pounds of compresses Blood iron in my hand. With my newly enhanced command of Blood iron specifically, I finish scouring the dead rebels of their two most precious resources a just before the Bald mage finally stops shouting orders.....

[+79 Souls (human). Souls Remaining: 546 Minimum: 12]

And turns to face me, his hand on his hammer and shield held high. The troops behind him likewise become alert, but while some unflinchingly raise their weapons to mimic their leader's wariness, many look on in confusion, clearly nonplussed at why weapons would be brandished at one that essentially saved their lives.

The bald mage speaks.

"I am Sir Densly, a Warmage in service to the Azelhaedran State, Captain of the Sixth State Army. Owner and commander of this golem, cease all commands to this Soul Grave, you are to make yourself visible immediately before any further action will be tolerated."

....Ah. With no one to point to as my controller, it would seem the State forces wish me to prove I am not sapient. Well, this would certainly be time to use my cover....


How should I respond to Warmage Densly? What should I say?
>>
No. 176682 ID: e31d52

>>176668
"Oh... this is quite a troubling situation. You, er, see, I have managed to create an enchantment upon this golem that allows it to be controlled from a great distance. However, er, the basis is a large magic circle that, ahm, due to certain perculiarities, I cannot leave. Doing so would cause the golem, erm, to go somewhat berserk, you see. And you seem to be a fine young fellow, upon whom I wish no harm, unlike that incorrigable Dulu fellow, I cannot make my way out from where I currently am, vis ah vis the ruins of a great and forgotten nation."

Bow.

"My name is Mordre, and I, ahm, am the commander of this golem. Though it would be somewhat, ah, more apt to say that I may as well be this golem, for I see and hear as it does. I am here running some feild tests to, er, refine the spell even further, and, well..."

gesture about to the dead around you,

"Ample subjects, as you can see. Quite willing, too. Now, ahm, I do believe that these ruffians have a rather terrible gridge with me, you see..."

relay the events of the town in which you recieved the warning, and you defeatng the guy with the pearl staff, and the dude in the forest with the huge mount.

"So, ah, it seems, like it or not, I am your ally. Not now Fluffers! *cat meow* No, not there, that's the trans- *loud cat purring, then hissing and yowling* My apologies, good man. In short, I'd like to speak with your superiors about this matter, and perhaps see if we can pool our resources for the greater good of things. Ah, my alchemical warriors are a bit aways, but they should be here shortly..."
>>
No. 176691 ID: 275a5d

"Yes, yes, formalities and whatnot. I'm afraid "revealing" myself is a bit impossible at the moment, as I've yet to complete the finishing touches on my new image-translocating artifact yet...ahem, patented, by the way. Days of paperwork to finally get it approved, and I'll not have my ideas nic'ed from under my nose, thank you very much, I...er...where was I?

Ah, yes, I'm sorry to say I can't show myself, as I am not currently...erm, present, I guess is as good a term as any. The golem you see before you is currently under my direct remote control. Genius, I know, I can't begin to tell you how proud I am of...what? No, Illia, no tea right now, thank you...

What? No, its not that I don't apprecia...no, I'm in the middle of a very important discussion with someone, thats all.

Anyway, I regret that I can only offer my introduction. I am the mage Mordre, and it is a pleasure to meet you...sir Densly, was it?"
>>
No. 176692 ID: 6834bc
File 12737286505.gif - (279.96KB , 256x192 , Calisto Yew laugh.gif )
176692

>>176668
Start some muffled snickering using the "Mage Mordre" voice, like you're trying to hold back a laugh; then burst into full-blown laughter - holding your stomach, shaking uncontrollably (but not so uncontrollably as to break our loot,) and slowly stop laughing, gasping for breath. "Ho- hold on, pwwahahahaha, hold on, Sir Densley, I'll be with you in a mo- pfffahahaha! Moment..."
Clear your throat, regain your composure (maybe let out a few fleeting giggles here and there,) and let him know that you're the great Mage Mordre, the only Mage ever to devise a means of controlling a Soul Grave remotely. As such, it's impossible for you to show yourself - you're not even in this state, much less the continent.
Apologize for the laughter - it's been a stressful day, and it's always funny when people start to look at you the way Densly was.
>>
No. 176694 ID: 275a5d

>>176691
Oh dear, three longwinded introduction posts.

What do?
>>
No. 176697 ID: 45be60

Stop all motion and pretend to have left those controls alone. "So sorry my good chap! If you want to meet me in person before continuing this conversation, you will have an awfully long wait. I am not nearly as spry as I once was, hoho. And in any event I AM already in my pajamas. I do hope that speaking this way will suffice? I am the mage Modre, and... and my cat has gotten into the control spindles again, just a moment. Sally! Come get Mister Muffins his milk, he is demanding attention again!
Where was I? Oh yes. I thank you for providing the distraction I needed to finally catch up with these two. They have been harassing my test subjects for weeks now. Ah yes, thank you Sally."
>>
No. 176712 ID: 275a5d

Also, the fewer details we freely give out, the better off we'll be at keeping the story clear and straight. The more complicated your cover, the more you have to make up to link those facts and keep your story straight, hence the more opportunities they have to catch you in a lie.

Hence, we should freely volunteer as little non-potentially useless information as we can get away with, and not tell them where we 'supposedly' are and what we've been doing unless specifically pressed on the matter.

This guy is not our friend.
>>
No. 176830 ID: d1210a

>>176691
"Yes, yes, formalities and whatnot. I'm afraid "revealing" myself is a bit impossible at the moment, as I've yet to finalize my new long range full-body image projector array... well, you know how the testing process goes. Ahem, in any event I'm sorry to say I can't show myself, as I am not currently... present, I guess is as good a term as any. The Soul Grave you see before you is currently under my direct remote control. Genius, I know, I can't begin to tell you how proud I am of...what? No, Illia, no tea right now, thank you..."

>>176682
>>176697
"No, quick close the door befo-wonderful, you let Mauser in the room, that has never ended poorly before... ...Just.... just put the tea down, Illia, I'm somewhat busy. ...Aha, Yes, as I was saying earlier..."

[+4 HAM Points TOTAL HAM points: 24 NEXT REWARD: 25]

I make my first movement since I begin speaking to my attentive audience, neatly bowing to them as I carefully keep my hand, loaded with my spoils save Dulu's staff, before I continue.... and happily noting that their reaction thus far has been one of pure confusion. Excellent, they shall be easier to sway from here on out.... and I admit to having some measure of enjoyment I derive from acting out this farce.... Strange, I do not recall when that started.

"I am the Mage Mordre, and it is good to meet you... Sir Densly, was it?"

Densly, previously so sternly focused on me, seems completely perplexed by this turn of events, and has let control of the conversation fall from his grasp. I believe I could take the initiative now, and try to steer our dialogue towards a topic of my choosing. After all, there are some things I'd rather not be too thoroughly questioned on, so I should take advantage of this opportunity while I have it.


What topic should I bring up, and what should I say or do?
>>
No. 176835 ID: a594b9

>>176830
Bring up the rebels, and the Core Being.

Possibly even ask if they know what our wooden friend is.
>>
No. 176842 ID: 427807

haha, ive got a funny idea. lets soulfire the entire state army! think about it, we'd get 500+ souls plus a mage soul. We wouldnt have to worry about anyone trying to flee, as we can outspeed and outlast any human. AND we'd have an entire fortress to ourselves! Anyone agree?
>>
No. 176848 ID: a594b9

>>176842
Uh, actually...

Soulfire destroys souls. So we'd get nothing. Also, these guys are representing an entire STATE. If we piss them off we're in trouble. We COULD probably take over the fort and hold them off but then we wouldn't be able to do much of anything else.
>>
No. 176849 ID: e31d52

>>176842

NAY.
>>
No. 176851 ID: 2aaaf1

>>176830
"Just what has happened to Azelhaedran state? I knew there would be some cleaning up to do when I arrived, but this is so much worse than I could've ever imagined. I've seen terrible things, villages that weren't enslaved to the whims of greedy bandits became the scenes of massacres. I've slowly tried to restore some sense of safety in these war-ravished lands, several villages that I managed to liberate are regaining some sense of order now. I can't fathom what the rest of the state looks like, if what I've seen so far is any indicator, there is work to be-*meow**meow* not now, Mauser. It's been a long day.*meow**sigh* ...fine. *purr* So, can you give me any insight on the situation, Sir Densly? Also, don't be alarmed if you see a group of some twenty big burly creatures bounding towards this field, they are my Alchemical soldiers."
>>
No. 176852 ID: 8276a0

>>176842
Hey, Mordre, use this soul next time you need to consume one, 'k?

Anyway, Core Beings, the Rebels, owning this outpost, using any of the army here. Anyone wanna ham up the conversation and lead it to us owning this outpost? That's my general view right now.
>>
No. 176859 ID: 427807

>>176848
We'd track down all the flee-ers, if any. The state would never know it was us

>>176852
haha, funny...really funny....
>>
No. 176862 ID: e31d52

>>176859
Because it's totally possible to catch 100 people running in ENTIRELY DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS before they get to someone else, amirite?

Can it. It's a silly idea.
>>
No. 176866 ID: 716eb0

>>176697
>Where was I? Oh yes. I thank you for providing the distraction I needed to finally catch up with these two. They have been harassing my test subjects for weeks now.

Still seems relevant. Need some explanation for why we are here, and since our "test subjects" should be arriving in the not too distant future, it would be good to have mentioned them before hand. And don't give out too many details about our plans for setting up shop in the Arcanoworks, but do mention that it has been cleared out and the local militia is defending it. We don't need the state coming and kicking US out just yet.

Also: sound of breaking glass, sound of yowling cat, golem stands on one leg and starts slowly listing to the left for several long seconds, recovering just at the last moment.
>>
No. 176875 ID: 275a5d

>>176851
This seems like a pretty good start to dialogue. It details what we've been doing in a suitably vague manner, and keeps Densly answering our questions instead of posing questions of his own.
>>
No. 176877 ID: 427807

>>176862
well we can travel a lot faster then them, and we don't tire out like humans do. Aside from losing their tracks, and the fact you pointed out that an entire fifth of the state soldiers here would run without a doubt in their mind, i think we can do it.
>>
No. 176889 ID: 445c48

>>176877
Maybe one of them can magic a message away? We don't know anything about these people.

Attacking these guys currently is silly, anyways. Modre is not a Chaotic Stupid "Kill everything, including obvious plot hook npcs"
>>
No. 176895 ID: d3dfb8

>>176877
No.
Shut up, go away.

>>176866
Do this.
>>
No. 176898 ID: 2aaaf1

We should only kill these men IF they set themselves to opposing us. Their fates will become known once they supply us with the information we seek.
>>
No. 176900 ID: 8276a0

>>176851
This.

>>176866
With the golem's leg slowly lifting up and listing to the left.
>>
No. 176915 ID: 903f16

Let's not kill these men. Why? Well first of all it's simply not worth it. We'd get no souls out of the deal if we burn them with soulfire. The fortress would be nice, but we don't even have enough men under our command to staff it. Then there's the problem of being caught, so what if we move faster than they do, dozens of scattering humans is still a difficult task. Who's to say one could slip out of sight or use some hidden magic against us. We'd be caught even if we managed to kill all of them. Losing an entire army of men and a commander is not something the state would overlook, they'd send people to look at the battle site. This isn't even mentioned that we'd also lose the use of these people as potential resources. They've just seen us aid them in a battle that would have probably proven to be fatal for their warriors. They can spread word of us as a friend to the state and as someone who has had great success freeing it from bandit and insurgent control. We can use them as a potential foothold in our climb to power in this state. Think of the big picture, we're not here just to capture a couple of research outposts when we can go for so much more with a bit of subtlety and a touch of acting.
>>
No. 176932 ID: 8276a0

I thought ignoring a troll was the proper practice.
>>
No. 177011 ID: d1210a
File 127380447965.jpg - (182.68KB , 380x590 , Sam Vimes.jpg )
177011

>>176851
>>176835
>>176852
>>176866
I take advantage of the uncertainty gripping those I address, and press onward.

"Just what has happened to Azelhaedran state? I knew there would be some cleaning up to do when I arrived, But this is much worse than what I had expected I would find. I've seen terrible things, not the least of which being a Core Being, With villages that weren't enslaved to the whims of greedy bandits... Ending up the scenes of massacres, even children dead on the ground. I've been trying to restore some measure of safety to these war-ravaged lands, And several villages that I managed to liberate are regaining some sense of order. I can't fathom what the rest of the state looks like, if what I've seen so far is any indicator. There is work to be- *meow* ...As I was say- *meeeooow* Not now, Mauser. It's been a long day.*meow* I said no! Now, where wa-*meow-meow* *meeeooow* .....Fine. *...purrrrrr* Now go away.... alright then."

[+2 HAM points. Total HAM points: 026 Amount required for next reward: 050]
HAM POINT REWARD:

NEW UNIT IN THE AZELHAEDRAN STATE (2/3):
SAMUEL 'SAM' VIMES
RETIRED SOLDIER TURNED CAREER WATCHMEN,
CURRENTLY HEAD OF FREELANCE SECURITY FORCE
GOOD FRIEND OF DEL ROGO
PERSONIFIES STUBBORN DETERMINATION
EXPERT OF BLOOD COMBAT MAGIC,
AND A MASTER OF BLOOD RAGE
SUSPECTED TO HAVE HIRED LIFE GOLEMS,
WHICH SERVE IN HIS PLATOON
FRIEND OF THE PEOPLE

"..Where was I? ...Oh yes. I thank you for providing the distraction I needed to finally catch up with these two. They have been harassing my test subjects for weeks now, And it is good to see them finally put down. Hopefully, I should be able to get some proper research done now. So, can you give me any insight on the situation, Sir Densly? Any insight as to how the situation not only got so bad, But also why it has persisted in such a state for so long? Why has the situation grown so grim that trouble is to be found everywhere? ..Oh yes, don't be alarmed if you see a score of armored giants enter the field, They're just my Alchemical warriors, the test subjects I mentioned earlier? ....I seem to have outpaced them in me efforts to get here, aha."

Densly says nothing as he visibly processes the glut of information I directed at him, but before the silence has long to exist, one of the braver (or one of the mentally deficient, hard to tell) speaks up, the words the tumble out of his mouth seeming to surprise even him.
...Definitely not one of the brave ones, then.

"So you're a mage then?"

I start to reply before another voice chimes in immediately. ....Is it some sort of custom here for conversations to be communal?

"Well, he said he is, didn't he? And how could he control it remotely if he wasn't a mage?"
"It's just, how do we know for sure he's a mage?"
"So, the flying fire people, the red... line, whatever that was the made things freeze and burn, those are things ANYONE could make a golem do, is that it?"
"I jus-"
"Not to mention the fact he's operating the bloody thing from a distance! I'd like to see a non-mage manage that!"
"...Right, never-mind then."
"SILENCE!"

At their commander's orders the troops grow silent once more, as Densly rejoins the dialogue.

"...Well, 'Mage' Mordre, you said you have assisted some villages, could you be more spec-"

"About which one, Trekel, Glenston, Shellik, The Republic of Trepany, the new-"

"Right, I recognize those names, I.... I... Wait, what? The Republic of Trepany? What is that?"



How should I respond?
>>
No. 177024 ID: 275a5d

>>177011
Oh, my sincerest apologies. The town of Droba has seen a bit of conflict in recent times and so has decided that a minor renaming was in order, to commemorate their renewed dedication to self-defense. Nothing to be startled over.

I do forget that you fellows seem to have been fighting for the past month or so. A bloody affair, I can tell. That you weathered it so speaks volumes for yourself and the capabilities of your men! Consider this old man impressed.

Linking with my earlier query, if I may ask, what do you intend to do now? I can't imagine that this is the only insurgent bastion in the area if they're THIS well-equipped. Including this one, that's at least fortresses with advanced arms and equipment that I've been forced to siege since arriving here.
>>
No. 177025 ID: 275a5d

>TWO fortresses

my bad.
>>
No. 177026 ID: 2aaaf1

>>177011
"Some of the villages I liberated were nearly burnt to the ground, the most of the survivors opted to rename their homes. The "Republic of Trepany" was once known as Droba, but such changes are irrelivant at the moment. What villages and outposts lie further beyond here? I am ready, willing, and able to assist the Azelhaedran military in cleaning out these monsters, but time is not on our side. There are big things afoot here, Sir Densly. The wrong people are dabbling in the wrong sorts of magic, and this state is paying a VERY hefty price for it."

Let's not mention Keddic for the moment.
>>
No. 177097 ID: d1210a

>>177024
>>177026
"Oh, my sincerest apologies. The town of Droba, Or so they tell me it was once named, Has seen a bit of conflict in recent times, a great deal in fact, And so has decided that a minor renaming was in order, To commemorate their renewed dedication to self-defense. Nothing to be startled over, as I understand it."

"If Droba has decided to secede from the State and declare itself a 'republic,' that is bloody well something to be concerned about. Just because a tax collector hasn't been out this way does not mean you aren't part of the State, this is still Azelhaedran soil."

Ah.... so even in such dire straits as these, fear of betrayal runs deep. ...Perhaps it would be best not to mention Keddic just yet, as with such suspicion abounding, it could be hard to convince Densly that Keddic isn't helping Trepany for his own gain, to set up a tiny kingdom of his own.

"I do forget that you fellows seem to have been fighting for quite some time, In your efforts to reclaim the land that was lost during the State's earlier complacency. A bloody affair, fighting to reclaim your own land, sometimes against you own people. That you weathered it so speaks volumes for yourself and the capabilities of your men! Consider this old man impressed. But really, I think you may have the wrong idea about Trepany, As all they have done is work to restore safety and basic needs to themselves, As well as the neighboring villages: In effect, they are doing your job for you. I sincerely doubt treason is on anyone's mind."

"Say what you will, but my orders are clear on this: Once I have managed to secure this location, I will have to appraise this 'Republic' myself, to assess whether it must also be classified as a threat to the state. With the troubles rebels have brought us, the State has adopted a very harsh view on the matter of treason. ...Well, that won't be for at least some time, this outpost still needs to be dealt with."

"Linking with my earlier query, if I may ask, what do you intend to do now? I can't imagine that this is the only insurgent bastion in the area if they're THIS well-equipped. Counting this one, that's at least two fortresses with advanced arms and equipment that I've been forced to siege since arriving here, and I sincerely doubt that is all of them."

"For now, we shall move to secure this outpost, and will hold it against all who come until such time a new regiment and commander picked to run this facility are dispatched. Once relieved, I'll have to check on this Trepany you mentioned.... Judging from the fact you said you have encountered at least two fortresses, if this is the second, where is the first?"

"I admit I know not what it was originally called, But the outpost to the North-East of here, that was the first. I excised the bandit presence controlling it, And I have since been working from the outpost, Which I have titled the Kyogrock Arcanoworks. Currently, my apprentice is commanding it."

"...Okay, north-east.... that would make it the Outpost Nine, and with Outpost Four here already taken..... ...Look, I'm not even close to a high enough rank to know what to do with you. I recognize that you saved the lives of many of the soldiers here, and we likely would have had to withdraw in failure if you had not intervened, and I recognize that if what you say is true, you are providing an incredible service to the State. But that still does not give me the right to make a judgment on behalf of the state concerning you, so....

Mage Mordre, you are hereby asked to await a representative party of the Azelhaedran State at Outpost Nine-The Arcanoworks, if you prefer. You are to cooperate fully with the representatives, and they will decide what approach is appropriate for you. ...Beyond that, I feel that it would take far too much time to satisfy my curiosity about you, and I have more pressing matters to attend to. If there is nothing else, I must ask you to vacate the area, as until we have properly secured this outpost protocol dictates that no non-military personnel are to be allowed in the vicinity.
.
...And thank you, for what you did today.... you saved a great deal of lives, and my report will reflect this."

Densly turns away from me to start shouting orders again, the mass of troops about him seething with activity. Shortly they start pouring into the nearby outpost, pushing their prisoners before them as they take the wounded inside.

....I cannot help but note I am not all alone on the battlefield, with all the delicious souls and Blood iron of the fallen State soldiers still ripe for the picking.... if I were to tap their resources, I could more than double the gains I come away from this exchange with.... though I imagine some of those soldiers still alive might object to such treatment of their fallen comrades. As I ponder this, the wood creature manages to surprise me, playfully butting it's head against my leg as it regards me with curious eyes. As I still have seen no sign of the Premen, I imagine I truly must have put a great deal of distance between us, perhaps I shall run into them on my way back.

[SECRET BONUS 006 DISCOVERED: THE GOLEM'S WHITE WHALE]
>--requisites: Dulu must be killed, and given enough time for his Soul to escape.
>--BONUS KNOWLEDGE: Balboa and Daobo both served the same mage, Archmage Weinsho. This is the same Weinsho that those who commandeered the fields about Trekel(One group summoned a Core Being and died for it, another was slain by THE CREATURE before they could act out the ritual) had stolen notes from. Weinsho is also an employer of Dulu.
>--BONUS KNOWLEDGE: A mage knowledgeable in Soul magic can place bindings on a willing soul such that on death, the soul will return to the caster of the spell.

[SECRET BONUS 007 DISCOVERED: SOUL GRAVE HERO OF THE PEOPLE]
>--requisites: Prevent the death of mage Densly, and insure the victory of the State forces over the rebels.
>--requisites: Do not kill any members of the State army through your actions.
>--BONUS KNOWLEDGE: Alexander Armstrong, a Warmage in service to the Azelhaedran State, is currently in the southern region of the State, working to reclaim outposts controlled by mercenaries.
>--BONUS KNOWLEDGE: Sam Vimes, a mercenary captain hired by the state, is currently tracking down a mage to the north in command of several outposts.


What should I do, or where should I go?
>>
No. 177108 ID: 275a5d

>>177097
Take Balboa's body with you. Though burned, his skin has not been cut or severed, so may still suffice.

Once out of sight of the State forces, and back among the Premen, devour the Blood Iron.

Offer some to the Golem. ALso, pet it.

We must confer with our associates. Send a Preman runner to Trepany, and request an urgent meeting with Sir Keddic. This concerns him, too.
>>
No. 177111 ID: 275a5d

BY golem, I mean wood creature, btw.

Just clarifying.
>>
No. 177112 ID: e31d52

We're going to have to ask a little favor of Kyorto.

She seemed capable of a lot of illusion magic, so in her tower, she should be capable of a great and simple illusion: An old man holed up with a bunch of cats and a few servers. We need someone to run to her and ask, but in doing this, it should tighten up our story.

Aaaanyway. Ask if you may use the Blood iron and souls within the men around you, so they may serve the State even after death. Should the reply be negative, don't bother, and simply return to Arcanoworks. We have some work to do there:

1) experiment with the morphic metal,

2) Confer with Arkus,

3) gather our hero units,

and

4) choose whether to stay or to move. Since the loss of you is the loss of your army, it should be a decision that everyone takes part in.
>>
No. 177113 ID: 275a5d

We already have a store of blood iron, and asking them such a thing about their recently deceased comrades is going to irreparably damage our image.

"Mind if I eat the blood of your fallen?"
>>
No. 177117 ID: 275a5d

>--BONUS KNOWLEDGE: A mage knowledgeable in Soul magic can place bindings on a willing soul such that on death, the soul will return to the caster of the spell.

o_0.

So Weinsho is a powerful soul mage.

This basically means that, until we devise a means of defending against soul magic, we can't really best him. Even the Yeti-elders with their Pseudo-Soul-Magic were a dire threat. An Archmage, though? Fuck me...
>>
No. 177118 ID: e31d52

>>177113
Dude, phrasing.

"My golem may benefit greatly by harvesting some things from the fallen here, namely blood and souls. May I do so, so that they may serve the state even after death? I would not be surprised if you declined. I am merely making the offer."
>>
No. 177120 ID: e31d52

OH FUCK GUYS

We can better control blood iron with magnetomancy, right?

MAKE BLOOD IRON AMMO FOR OUR BLADE LAUNCHERS.
>>
No. 177124 ID: 275a5d

>>177118
The idea is that it shows a distinct lack of respect for the dead, however you phrase it. These guys have been grinding themselves bloody for over a month against this fortress, and asking to feast on the fallen, no matter how you couch it, is still asking to feast on the fallen.

It's an incredibly dangerous gamble with our image even if we WEREN'T still under suspicion by Densly (which we still are, in all likelyhood)
>>
No. 177127 ID: e31d52

Alright. Then we should just leave the bodies alone. It's too much risk. Poor Mordre has to consider his image now, so just get the already-spilled blood. If anyone asks, simply say you'rew cleaning the battlefeild, as blood can have a negative effect on plant life and soil.
>>
No. 177128 ID: 45be60

It would be considered poor form to ask to consume the souls of allies in the slow hellish fires of a golem's interior. Heroes are one thing, their souls persist and are not used as fuel. But the rank and file deserve whatever afterlife these fleshy beings get, not slowly burning into oblivion.

They probably don't need their blood in the afterlife though. That might be worth asking about.
>>
No. 177129 ID: 2aaaf1

>>177097
It has already been said once, but it bears repeating: DUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUULLLLLLUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!
>>
No. 177131 ID: d3dfb8

We could harvest under the guise of burying the dead.
>>
No. 177132 ID: 275a5d

Basically, we don't harvest souls, and IF, IF we harvest the blood, we make damn sure no one can see us do it.
>>
No. 177134 ID: 275a5d

And if we can't make sure that no one sees, we don't do it
>>
No. 177162 ID: 62781c

>>177132
Hmm. I wonder, could we use our magnetomancy to draw out the blood extra slowly, so that it's not terribly obvious? If we don't know, don't try it since the risk is too great, but it would be worth experimenting with in the future.

Regardless, harvesting the blood and souls of the State troops, or even recovering our ammunition, probably isn't strictly necessary here. As much as it would be great to get our hands on one of those lightning cannons... I doubt they'd just hand one of those over, either. Would it be terribly rude to ask, you think?
>>
No. 177166 ID: 275a5d

>>177162
Probably not. We just need to express interest in the rune-theory behind the cannons, and request a sample as salvage.
>>
No. 177174 ID: 45be60

Oh yeah, see if there is anything in the gunman's bag of tricks that the tree creature is interested in eating.
>>
No. 177221 ID: f9eb2a

Don't forget to give it some of the Blood iron.
>>
No. 177224 ID: 8276a0

Ask to look at the technology - at least a little. Possibly barrow one to defend our own Station.

Bring up the devouring of souls and blood thusly: Ask if he knows about a Soul Graves. If not, let's come up with some nice BS about souls being not used as fuel and let us use these bodies for experimentation or something. If he does, just ask for the bodies for experimentation or something.

Next, lets gather up the Premen - make sure they're ok. Then lets head...mhm...I wanna check the rest of the villages we've freed. Maybe talk to Densly about the other villages and does he need the Representative of the State to do anything before we leave.
>>
No. 177238 ID: 275a5d

...asking to experiment on the freshly dead?

That doesn't sound sinister?
>>
No. 177246 ID: a594b9

We should limit our soul sucking and blood iron draining for the corpses of our enemies, not our allies.
>>
No. 177248 ID: 427807

>>177246
...why?
>>
No. 177249 ID: 275a5d

>>177248
Because it jeopardizes our longterm goals by breaking down the image we've created.

Mind you, this is just for when people can see us do so/care. The premen don't seem to mind, given that we've drained battlefields before in the aftermath, and Heroic Souls like Ozmand's seemed amenable to it. But that's largely because he wasn't facing annihilation as a result of it.
>>
No. 177250 ID: e31d52

>>177248
No matter what Mordre really is, we have an image to maintain. Mordre may be a crazy awesome unstoppable soul-fueled badass, but his problems are not something solvable by him alone. We NEED the resources that can be given to us by the state. Therefore, it behooves us to act politely, humanely, and kindfly to both those in our employ and those of the state. We will leave their bodies alone unless there comes a time when it becomes clear there is simply no other option.

Until such a time, we shall treat them, and their dead, with respect. Period. There is to be no harvesting of innocent souls or blood iron, ESPECIALLY not from those who helped and assisted us! If the army hadn't been here, we would have been alone against an entire fucking army, and while Mordre is tough as nails and we might have survived, we would have lost a great deal more resources than we stand to gain by ruining our reputation.

Furthermore, if we can make it to the point where we are such a goddamn hero the sentient golem anathema thing won't matter, all the better.

Mordre, and thus, us, must think politically as well as militarily from now on. Remember that!
>>
No. 177252 ID: 445c48

Harvest souls and blood iron discretely. I'm not sure what soulsucking looks like, so if you can't do it quietly and without anyone noticing, just get some blood iron, but don't rip it out of the bodies or anything.
>>
No. 177255 ID: f9eb2a

>>177250
I agree with you except in the sense that we NEED their help. If necessary we could do all this by ourselves, it just makes everything ALOT easier to have their support. Its a shame that we are gonna betray em in the end though.
>>
No. 177256 ID: 275a5d

>>177255
We are? As I recall, our goal was to be a Conqueror-Hero, not Conqueror-Tyrant.

Did this change at some point? Also, what purpose would betrayal serve?
>>
No. 177258 ID: 275a5d

Also, I think you vastly overestimate our capacity if you think we could take on Superpower Nations by ourselves.
>>
No. 177259 ID: e31d52

>>177255
By resources, I don't just mean souls or blood iron or even magic.

I mean popularity.

Think about it: Even the most terrible monster on the planet is only a monster because of its deeds. If we were to show the world just what a sentient golem can do, for the people, for the stability of a nation, we won't need to betray anyone!
>>
No. 177260 ID: 275a5d

>>177255
Oh, wait, nevermind, you're talking specifically about the State of Azelhaedran's government.

I thought you were refering to our actual allies.
>>
No. 177262 ID: 275a5d

In any case, I think the goal we have with the state government is to get as much of their military and citizenry as possible to side with us when push comes to shove.

Kinda like how Caesar got his troops to side with him instead of the Roman Senate. They liked him so much and were compensated so well specifically by him that when push came to shove, they knew where they're loyalties belonged.
>>
No. 177269 ID: 427807

>>177259
>>177250
Coming from the perspective of a sentient soul grave, why do we care about humanity? We are powered by their souls, all we need from humanity is fuel. We don't need their respect, nor their reverence. Humans would never accept us into their society.
If the state army had never been here, we wouldn't even had bothered engaging them at all. However the army was there, we took advantage of human civil war, and now we deserve the rewards, the primal motivation for us to take part in the actions of this world, human souls.
>>
No. 177271 ID: 6063bd

>>177259
No, no, humans are not like that, THEY like to be on top of the food chain. Look at the Justice League, they were always trying to help and without them the world would have been effed many times over, but the humans still tried to take them down because they were scared of their strength. If a power greater than humans exist that actively moves in the world and in lives, that they are not in direct control of, they are gonna try to even the score and the fastest way to do that is with assimilation or extermination.
>>
No. 177272 ID: b14128

I think they'd probably notice if we harvested blood iron. And trying to be discreet about it, in addition to possibly not working, would take time, which would be better spent heading back to the Arcanoworks and researching stuff there, or the Republic, and sorting things out with Keddic to make sure these guys don't hunt him down for making Droba turn 'Traitor'. We're working hard to build up a good image, and we shouldn't risk that for short term gain, particularly for resources that we can find in abundance in this war-torn nation. If we want to get more blood iron and souls, let's get them when we're out of sight of people: Blood magic is viewed with great suspicion, and Soul magic is punishable by death pretty much everywhere, remember.
>>
No. 177273 ID: 6063bd

>>177269
I would launch into some grand speech about our goals and morals but im just going to say screw that and say this, If we just move through the current world and say eff everyone, we are gonna get taken down. Even Kyorto who is long DEAD can eff us over. The amount weaknesses to a construct in the world of it's creators is infinite.
>>
No. 177275 ID: 6063bd

>>177269
And finally, stop trolling.
>>
No. 177278 ID: 275a5d

>>177269
Except we're not a primal being. We are a creation given sentience. We are not OBLIGATED to act in any specific way whatsoever, beyond what is needed to pursue the goals we set for ourself, and what is needed to stay alive.

And actually, if the state army wasn't there, Balboa and Dulu* would have gotten away, as the fortress was allied with them, and their attention was almost entirely focused on the State military for the duration of the engagement.

We've already taken numerous rewards from this battlefield. Acting like a Greedy Glutton is just being weak and having no real self-control and causing needless hindrance to us in the long-run.

ANd however much disdain you may hold for mortal fleshbags, they have demonstrated they can be useful to us in innumerable ways outside of simple sustenance.

*Yes, I know dulu still got away. Fuck him.
>>
No. 177300 ID: d3dfb8

>>177275
There is a difference between trolling and stupidity.
>>
No. 177345 ID: 427807

>>177275
>>177300
I r cunfuzzed. whats trolling? lolzorz
>>
No. 177350 ID: 8276a0

To discussion! Seriously, stop feeding the troll - He's given enough ass-stupid suggestions for anything he says to be ignored out of hand.

Anyway, if we think there is no way to get a body, then I would just ask what else we can do and ask for a cannon or to study any items in this station.
>>
No. 177364 ID: d1210a

>>177108
I grab Balboa's corpse, appraising his skin for breakages. ...Hm, while I see no outright cuts in it, his body seems to be covered in the same type of cracked burns that festooned Verther's form. While his clothes seem to have sheltered most of him, his face in particular is a ruin.... but lacking any outright cuts on his body, it may be possible to use his skin. I add his form to the pile of goods in my left hand.

>>177112
>>177127
>>177128
>>177131
>>177252
Having yet to see anything about the harvesting of souls that could be called 'subtle,' I decide that even with the State forces moving off the field, I should leave the souls of the fallen warriors still lingering about this battlefield alone.... but drawing Blood iron from the ground and corpses alike is a much less overt action. Still, some could object to it if I was seen, so perhaps if I had a cover, a reason to peruse the fallen state forces... ah. I call out to Densly before he vanishes into the keep along with his men.

"I understand you have much to occupy your time, sir mage, So perhaps I can assist you: I have no qualms with burying your dead, A task that normally is considered quite backbreaking."

"...Why would you offer this?"

"Because I have seen evidence of Soul Magic about this land, And based on that one can never be too careful, especially with the fallen. So once more, I offer to bury your dead so that your men can be put to better use."

For a moment Densly stops shouting orders as he regards me, and I briefly wonder if he shall call my bluff and seek an explanation for why burial would prevent a Soul mage from employing the dead, before he decisively nods and barks out a reply.

"...Strip them of their arms and armor and leave said equipment before this outpost,
Then you may bury them however you must to prevent their manipulation. …Macabre, I know, but until we regain more outposts the state resources are stretched thin, and none can be wasted, not even theirs."


>>177162
>>177166
>>177224
Another thought occurs to me as Densly once more moves to enter the outpost, and I stop him again with a query.

"Very well, I shall do so. One more thing... I must admit being fascinated with the cannonry here. I'd love to pick apart the runes involved, and understand their working.... Mayhap I could procure one such cannon for study?"


Densly once more regards me in silence, pausing just inside the massive wood doors of the fortress that now surrounds him, and scowls in my direction.

"If you want one of the ones that was rendered inoperable, fine, you can have one of the Skyfall cannons, but all working goods are to remain in the State's care. I'll have someone wheel one of the damaged cannons out, if you want it."

At his words, the salvaged togas, cloak, and runed swords in my hand give me cause for concern, until I recall that with my fingers cupped about them and Balboa's corpse added to the pile, my spoils are unseen.

"If that is what I must make do with, Then so be it, I gladly accept the offer."

And with that, warmage Densly vanishes into the keep, as I make my way about the field, collecting the scattered State troops, those whose blood I have yet to harvest, and slowly concentrating the mass of corpses into a single spot. I drag corpses by the dozen without ever touching them, pulling them about the ground with Magnetomancy as I march. While I do so, I pull the Blood iron from any blood I see spilt upon the ground, but leave the corpse alone for the moment. In short order, I have a massive mound of dead before me, behind which I carefully stow my handful of spoils before setting to digging graves. With my size, strength and inexhaustible stamina, I have a mass grave ready in relatively short order, ready to accommodate all who died.

I set to my task, removing the arms and armor of each corpse before placing it in the pit, pulling free all the Blood iron they have whilst I de-equip them. Working without pause, the sun now stands at it's zenith as noon arrives, heralding the completion of my task... as well as the accrual of even more Blood Iron, bringing my total harvest of the material to some seventy pounds. The multi-slot scabbard I have been constructing with the procured Blood Iron is no longer flimsy, now a veritable slab of metal with slots to hold the swords I also claimed as prize. I scoop dirt over the now filled grave, carefully recollecting my spoils and protectively cupping them in my hand before turning back to the outpost. Sure enough, a bent and warped cannon now stands before the gates....

I unfurl the Sable Executioner, and carefully wrap it's metal ribbons about the offered artillery, before I set out, leaving behind the first official representatives of the State I have yet encountered. I direct my Magnetomancy inwards for alacrity, and depart the field, heading northeast. It is high time I returned to the Arcanoworks, there is much to be done, much to be prepared for.

>>177259
>>177262
>>177271
As I march backwards along Balboa and Dulu's trail, wondering when I shall run into the Premen, I consider how this first contact went. ...All things considered, I believe I left a largely positive image in the minds of the soldiers, I saw more than a few look at me with gratitude as I maintained my charade of being a mage controlling this form from afar. And while Densly was terse, and still seems suspicious of me, he seemed more than willing to afford me some measure of respect, at least recognizing that I could have harmed them and did not, instead choosing to aid them. For him, I suspect actions may speak louder than words.... which makes me wonder how he would have viewed me had I not been so overwhelmingly altruistic in how I acted towards the State forces.

In any event, their response gives me an idea, one that addresses some of my longer-term goals. If I continue to maintain the image of 'Mage Mordre, friend of the people,' I may one day be able to hold a rebellion within the state to claim more power of the political sort, the largely bloodless kind of insurrection where the majority of the fighting populace sides with me, should I find some means of ingratiating myself to the State military. ...No, ingratiate is the wrong word, I need to find some way to make them prefer me over the State government. ....An ambitious plan, to be sure, and one that would require time, patience, and effort.... but one that could pay off immensely.

I snap out of my reverie as I spy a familiar sight, Oggroth on his mount leading the Premen forces in a forced march, clearly intent on reaching my side to offer aid. But as he spies me already on the trail, he commands the group to draw to a halt, and looks at me in curiosity. I note several Premen glancing about, seeking something, and with a start realize I have yet to see the wood creature return since I sent it away during the fight. I put that train of thought on hold as Oggroth speaks, having trouble deciding what he wants to say.

"...Where.... What is tha-..... Is there any more glory to be won? Any further slaughter to be had?"

"I am afraid not."


Oggroth visibly wilts, clearly having been anxiously anticipating the coming conflict. And I hear him begin to grumble about his 'stupid mount being too slow'. I take the initiative and get our forces turned about again, and we resume our march back to Kyogrock Arcanoworks,. my form laden with the spoils of war. Among them:

-Balboa's corpse, possibly viable as a mage skin for Kyorto
-A warped Skyfall cannon with intact runes
-Dulu's morphic staff
-15 Blood-Togas (I claimed the one left behind by the first one seen bearing such garb)
-1 Blood-Cloak
-14 runed swords
-1 heavily runed cleaver with lightning engravings
-~70 pounds of Blood Iron
-Balboa's backpack (unsearched)
-Six handcannons

There is still a significant amount of light left in the day, and it will likely be sometime midday tomorrow when we return to the Arcanoworks, as the Premen cannot match my maximum speed, so we travel more slowly than I would alone.


What should I do with this time? Should I speak with Oggroth or some of the other Premen?
Or should I start searching for the absent wood creature?
And what (if any) things should I have the Premen work on tonight at camp?
[If you want to just timeskip to returning to the Arcanoworks, that is also viable]
>>
No. 177371 ID: 275a5d

>>177097

>the wood creature manages to surprise me, playfully butting it's head against my leg as it regards me with curious eyes.

>>177364

>I have yet to see the wood creature return since I sent it away during the fight.

Erm...Which is it?
>>
No. 177394 ID: 372dac

>>177364

Send word to trepany for a meeting so that you can let the trepanese know about the state forces approach.
>>
No. 177396 ID: d1210a

>>177371
[Vanished since then, with no notice of it's departure. That leg-headbutt was the last you saw of the creature, which occurred prior to the multi-hour grave digging. So pretend my post said 'not seen since leg-headbutt' or some such, rather than 'since sent away']
>>
No. 177402 ID: 445c48

Sparring and English for tonight's activities. Then timeskip.
>>
No. 177403 ID: 275a5d

>>177396
Ah.

Then we find it.
>>
No. 177420 ID: 2558dd

Why don't we take out chunk of metal, put a rune on it for it to see and have that fly through air on magnetic fields to find the wood creature?
>>
No. 177444 ID: 6063bd

It will return when It is hungry, if it does somn bad then claim that it ain't yours.
>>
No. 177446 ID: 903f16

Have the Premen work on learning the humans language. Then brief them on the new equipment we saw the insurgents used, such as the blood togas, so they will not be unaware of their effects should we face them again. Search for the wooden creature whenever the Premen take breaks to rest, make our steps as loud as possible. The creature should be familiar with the sound of us marching along and be drawn to it.
>>
No. 177451 ID: 716eb0

Find the wood creature when your troops rest for the night. May as well do something productive to pass the wee hours of the night.
>>
No. 177528 ID: 445c48

Oh yeah, now that you don't need it to carry around a bunch of loot by yourself, EAT ALL THE DELICIOUS BLOOD IRON NOMNOMNOM OH GOD DELICIOUS
>>
No. 177540 ID: d3dfb8

>>177528
No, we should keep it till the Arcanoworks so Arkus can organize it all properly.
>>
No. 177557 ID: 62781c

>>177364
We should spend some time talking with the Premen on our march, describing what happened, its results, and our thoughts on each of the groups involved. They're not stupid and they are quite loyal, so leaving them in the dark with nothing more than a forced march and a lack of glory would be a needless blow to their morale. Besides, we don't particularly need to keep those events secret, and a well informed servant is one who might provide useful insights or show initiative in a helpful fashion.
>>
No. 177612 ID: b14128

>>177557
Actually, this is a very good idea. We haven't really talked with the people we lead very much. And not even because we think we should keep it secret, simply because the idea has never occured to us. I say we do it.
>>
No. 177677 ID: d1210a

>>177394
I make a mental note to inform the Republic of Trepany of their coming inspection, or send a runner with such a message. For now, only I could carry the information to them, as only I can speak the common tongue amongst this group, and I have need to return to the Arcanoworks first and foremost.

>>177402
>>177446
>>177557
>>177612
As I continue to peer about the forest surrounding us, seeking out the now familiar form of my missing wooden companion, I realize how little I share information with my followers beyond the bare essentials, and choose to remedy that. The Premen marched as swiftly as they could, and still were denied their chance to fight, so it seems only fair I tell them what transpired in their absence. I address no one in particular as I ruminate on what happened.

"The trail we have followed belonged to one named Balboa, Who happened to be an accomplice of Dulu, th-"

"Dulu? That was the warrior that escaped Mordre before, when we hunted the false king in forests west of here?"

"That's correct. As it turns out, Dulu was the maker of the second set of tracks. They both were fleeing to an allied fortress, in the care of State rebels."

"'Rebel'? What is that?"

"..A rebel is someone who betrays their professed loyalties, And tries to usurp power from those in command. ...Well, it will serve as an definition for now."

"And these 'rebels'... Who are they 'rebels' against?"

"Well, the Azelhaedran State government, Those who rule this land, or claim to. Some of the loyal warriors of the state were also present, When I caught up to our quarry, And they were engaged with the rebel forces. Thanks to my intervention, they reclaimed the rebel-controlled outpost."

"...Why did Mordre help them?"

"Dulu and Balboa both were allied with the rebels, And as I sought to slay them the rebels came to their aid, So that in the process of claiming their lives, I ended up assisting the State forces. Actually, this appears to be a good thing."

"Good? Why is it good? Mordre has not aligned with the State, yes?"

"Well, besides their presence delaying the rebels, And thereby making it easier for me to catch my prey, There is the fact the State created all these outposts, Each apparently packed with wonderfully useful magitech. That, and the fact I intend to set up dedicated supply lines, Means I have good reason to get along with the State, And to desire good relations with them."

Oggroth scratches his head after removing his helm, his face locked in a grimace as he considers my words.

"So...State not true ally, but useful to not be at war with, useful to trade with?"

"More or less, yes. That may change some day, But for now, It is better to have them as friend than foe."

Oggroth nods at my words, his earlier confusion dispelled. I continue to answer questions about the specifics of what occurred, but request the Premen to put their questions in the common tongue rather than their own, to force them to continue practicing with their linguistic knowledge. The questions become more simplistic and halting, but their interest in what they missed (as well as their apparent lust for tales of brutal and glorious war) pushes them onward, and we continue to talk until the sun has set. As of this point, I still have seen no signs of the wooden creature, which is starting to worry me.

As we set up camp, I set them to sparring, and with the tales of my recent conquest fresh in their minds, they exuberantly put forth their all, engrossed in their practice. I take part as well, after carefully setting down my spoils, after Oggroth requests a bout, which sets the whole lot of them to clamoring to spar against me. Several hours later, as exhausted Premen start dropping off into sleep, I find myself pleased with their progress: The Premen are seasoning nicely under my command. Funny, they what are slowly becoming elite and loyal warriors started as those rejected from the Drazken Clan.

After assuring myself the Premen camp is secure and my spoils carefully watched by those on guard duty, I set off into the night, seeking the wood creature that vanished at some point while I dug graves. I try tromping through the woods with no effort to mask my heavy footfalls, hoping that the sound of my pacing will attract my missing companion, but I am rewarded with naught for my efforts. After two hours spent searching, growing increasingly frustrated I have no name to call out to attract the wood creature (Why did I not name it?), I pause to re-appraise how I should be approaching this.

>>177420
[Since when did Mordre know runes that could do that, and when did Mordre start learning how to do rune inscription himself? I don-.... wait...]
>177420
>420
[.....heh]

As I stand there pondering how I shall find the missing creature of bark and root, I hear a rustle in a nearby bush. As I turn to face it, a blur leaps forth, plastering itself over my face, obscuring my vision. I recoil, reflexively moving to assault that which blinds me so, before I hear a familiar, creaking purr emanate from my assailant. I lightly pluck the creature from my face, to find the missing wooden entity happily staring at me, it's beak ajar and a tongue-like root lolling out. Before I can take further action, the creature leans forward, and runs it's root/tongue over my face, managing to get dirt and grit on my previously pristine form.
Wonderful.

I let the creature go, and make my way back to camp, finding it once more sticking to my side as before. ...Strange, I could swear it was smaller the last time I saw it. In any event, it is late, and only those on watch are still awake besides myself and the wooden creature.

....Right, that does it.

It is getting too awkward to mentally refer to this thing in absence of a name, and as it is my ward, I feel it only appropriate that I name it.


So what should I name the wood and root creature?
>>
No. 177682 ID: e31d52

Moss.

I mean, you're mordre, it's Moss, get it?

... eh, yeah. Sorry. I got nothing.
>>
No. 177700 ID: 45be60

>>177682
wow. I am sort of ashamed at how long it took me to get that.
>>
No. 177703 ID: 8276a0

I like Moss. Or maybe some old word for 'tree' from Mosmordre.
>>
No. 177715 ID: 0dd605

>>177677
it seems smart, let it help you on a name
>>
No. 177716 ID: 275a5d

>>177682

Moss does kinda fit with his whole "made of tree" motiff.

Alternatively, if you want something more forboding or something, maybe something like "Withermane", what with his devouring world-magic.
>>
No. 177725 ID: 4a4879

when we get back to arcanoworks could arkus possibly copy the runes on the skyfall cannon and apply to the anti-golem cannon?
>>
No. 177726 ID: 275a5d

>>177725
I'd rather he didn't, as that would defeat the Anti-Golem Cannons purpose.
>>
No. 177727 ID: d144a6

>>177726
We could have arkus apply the runes to our "test" section though...That way we'll be able to find out what they do...
>>
No. 177728 ID: 275a5d

>>177727
Why don't we NOT apply the untested runes that were being used on a device that detonated metal with lightning strikes to our own body?

How about...something that isn't us? Or alive, for that matter.
>>
No. 177733 ID: d144a6

>>177728

That's true...I'm just concerned that your method would be too slow. Arkus barely has a handle on the runes that already exist for modre and modre doesn't have a clue about runes...If we experiment the completely safe way...I suspect it will take a long time before we see tangible results.

Risk vs. Reward...
>>
No. 177739 ID: a594b9

>>177677
It found some food. Perhaps we could ask it to lead us to where it found it. Then we could add that to our 'map' of world magic nexuses.
>>
No. 177742 ID: 275a5d

>>177733
Why does it matter if the runes are used on us or a cannon? I fail to see how testing mysterious runes on ourself will yield quicker results then testing them on, say, a cannon.

And its not like theres any rush. We have literally nothing but time at the moment.
>>
No. 177795 ID: 903f16
File 127394422272.jpg - (174.97KB , 543x508 , FO3_Harold.jpg )
177795

Spruce or Harold would be fun choices.
>>
No. 177808 ID: 1ac858

I agree with 1777339 and also when we get back to the Arcanoworks we need to learn as much about runes and soul magic as we can.
>>
No. 177812 ID: 445c48

Moss works so well. That, +++.

Don't put those runes on YOU yet, let Arkus study and test them first. Same with Dulu's runes.
>>
No. 177828 ID: d1210a

>>177682
>>177715
>>177716
>>177812
"...Well, I can't keep calling you 'that wood creature,' So I need a name to call you by. Do you already have one?"

The creature regards me obliquely, craning it's head about, it's beak gaping wide open, but while it's root tongue waggles in the air, naught but the sound of creaking wood emerges.

"Well then. What do you think of this: I name you Moss..... Moss Withermane."

Moss snaps it's beak shut, and nods it's head as the stone housed in it's torso briefly glows. It turns it's gaze back upon me.... and I notice it's eyes now have a greenish tint that was not present before. With no further incident from Moss, I turn about and make my way back to camp, Moss diligently following along at my side.

>>177739
Still thinking about the change in size since the last time I saw Moss, I turn once more to my companion.
"You seem larger. Did you find food?"

Moss looks somewhat confused, and makes an aborted attempt at nodding before amending it, and instead shaking it's head as it whines. It looks off to the east, to a patch of forest north of the outpost I warred against earlier today, but seems to have trouble picking a specific direction, it's head bobbing back and forth. In any even, I make a mental note that something is to be found out here, even if I do not yet know what.

I make my way back to camp, and spend the rest of the night contemplating what has been set in motion today. The State is now aware of my existence, Trepany and the Arcanoworks both are going to be visited by State representatives in the future, Dulu's soul having eluded me....

...But most of all, I think about the fact I have a name to lay blame before, someone who seems involved in much of the strife afflicting the State: Weinsho.

There is much to be done.


GOLEM QUEST ARC 3: MEETING THE STATE COMPLETE
NEXT ARC, ARC 4: REBUILDING AN EMPIRE IMPENDING
[Feel free to use this thread to discuss stuff until it's archived and the new thread is up]
>>
No. 177829 ID: d3dfb8

>>177828
OH LAWDY I CANT WAIT
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