Hey dude, go see if you can talk to your wife and see if you can calm her down a bit, before her bad mood spreads and everyone is just angry and shit. It wont do your place any good.
A happy worker is an efficient worker.

Yessssssssss

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)16:34 No. 24231 ID: c01408
File 12496880403.gif - (7.97KB , 800x600 , 288.gif )

>>24229
...what.

>>24231
Ignore him.
Ask about locating and identifying Totems.

Poor Muschio.

Well, nothing to do but work towards a better future. Lets find some place to get ourselves a manakin.

>>24231
You know. Finesse. She seemed upset. Go get her in a good mood again. Don't be a buster, Muzzles.

Aw don't be so down Muschie~
Even the greatest of empires was built one stone at a time.

So lets get to steppin' and see if we can't find a mannikin!
...but first I think your chest is leaking over there...

Yo, bro, your chest be leakin'.

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)16:36 No. 24238 ID: c01408
File 124968819760.gif - (7.93KB , 800x600 , 289.gif )

>>24235
>Finesse. She seemed upset. Go get her in a good mood again.
That was four days ago.

Good lord, what have you been doing.

WELL FUCKING WAY TO GO IF YOU LEFT HER IN A BAD MOOD FOR FOUR FUCKING DAYS
WHY YOU GOTTA BE A BUSTA, HOLMES
GO RUB THAT PUSSY THE RIGHT WAY, RIGHT NOW

Okay you might want to recap what's been happening since the failed portal whatsit.

>>24238
...My apologies. Well, have that carpenterbold build you a bed already.

>>24238
Then what's the situation now?
Manakins acquired?
Minions happy?
Dungeon extended?

>>24240
Stop saying words, the Boss is feeling down.

Dude. Your treasure chest. Leaking. Dripping. Not cool.

ALSO FUCK FOUR DAYS WAT

... what's dripping out of your chest?

>>24238
Eh, sorry, we don't have a good sense of time in here.
But anyways! We've got a mannikin to find! Go and see if any of your minions knows anything useful!

<~TG_Weaver> everyone better shut the fuck up about the chest
<~TG_Weaver> it's been like that since we first saw it

>>24249
cool emphasis fail bro

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)16:41 No. 24251 ID: c01408
File 124968849880.gif - (8.00KB , 800x600 , 290.gif )

HER BAD MOOD IS NOT MY CONCERN.
I have bigger things to worry about.

Very little has happened in the last few days. Tislomer set up an herbalist's workshop in the back tunnel and we removed the spear trap and relocated the pedestal. I can now purchase potions from him at a premium and both kobolds are producing a small income in the form of trade goods.

Finesse has been spending most of her time in the workshop of conversing with the Kobolds.
I've spent most of my time in here.
It's not as though we had much to discuss.

>>24251
FINE! We need to find a mannikin, then. ASK FINESSE WHERE WE MIGHT BE AB;E TO GET ONE.

>>24251
And you are completely correct Boss.

So. Lets go find us a mannikin. Fetch out that world map again, let's see if we can't find a place that might have one on hand.

And ask if she has any Mannakin preference.

Now up, up up up. Quit moping about and get up! I'm not your mother.

Even if you don't have any leads just go out and get some fresh air.

Muzzles why you such a busta. :(
Chick just wants some love. Don't tell me you're not lonely.
Be sure to give her some time when you're done with your manikin.

You are PITIFUL. Just lying there, wallowing in your misery. Do something useful, for a change. Like acquiring tools for renovation.

>>24251
Well, get up then!
We've got work to do!
Let's see if Finesse knows where we might locate a mannikin... or at least where we might find out where to locate one.

>>24251
That's not the Muschio I know, where's the fire? Where's the passion?

We have great plans, and high goals, of course there will be set backs.
Now pick yourself up and get to work, we have a kingdom to conquer.

First up, where do we obtain a manikin?
Second of all, morale is always your business, we want loyal subjects.

If she's not in a foul mood, thats all fine. But we need to make sure they won't run off the moment things get ugly, or if someone with a bigger purse walks by.

I'm guessing that the small knickknacks we found aren't mannikins, so ITS OUR JOB TO FIND A FAIRY GROVE AND PLUNDER IT

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)16:49 No. 24265 ID: c01408
File 124968896690.gif - (8.07KB , 800x600 , 291.gif )

>>24258
>>24259
>>24256
>You are PITIFUL
You are in no position to give me further grief! You think this is all my fault? YOU disappeared for four days and you expected me to just be fine on my own? I have absolutely no idea where I misplaced you and then you just show up back on my desk to greet me this morning?
You're MY psyche, and wicked as you may be, MY psyche you will stay. I don't want to think what kind of trouble you'd stir up if you fell into some gullible badaud's hands!
Gods.

And stop calling them Manakins. Clever as your play on words may be, they're called Mannikins. If you can note the difference, so can I!

Well fine, let us go find a MANNEQUIN. Whatever, they're pronounced mostly the same. As to where we have been...

I have no fucking clue. Anyway, let's get moving. WORK TO DO, PLACES TO BE.

>you expected me to just be fine on my own
yeah, did you not eat for the past 4 days either because we didn't tell you what flavour jam to put on your toast?

jeez


LET'S GO ON AN ADVENTUREnya~

Exactly, we're only part of you, making you responcible for our actions.
YOU misplaced us.

Hell, I dont remember what even happend the past 4 days.

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)16:54 No. 24272 ID: c01408
File 124968926498.gif - (8.05KB , 800x600 , 292.gif )

>>24269
>Hell, I dont remember what even happend the past 4 days.
I feel like I've only been getting bits and pieces of it myself.
Some of these echoes are... DEEPLY CONFUSING, to say the least.

I don't even HAVE a sister.

>>24269
Something with a frog, I think?

Anyway we're here now, keep a better grip and LET'S GO.

>>24272
>I don't even HAVE a sister.

Ooooh...
Temporal shenanigans, don't worry about that at all.

>>24272

Hey boss, useful voice here.

Since we're startin to get settled in, why not go out and try to recruit again? Getting an Ogre to guard the front door would certainly make sure any bothersome people stay out. Hell, getting more Kobolds could be good if only to get this place up and deadly.

>>24275
Yeah, an ogre to guard the entrance and if anyone breaks in, he can rape them. Unless they find that magic invisibility ring, that is.

An Ogre would be usefull to work on the rock walls, and perhaps expand our laire.

However, will we be able to afford an orge, and even then, will it be worth it?

Ask the hirelings for any rumors as to the possible whereabouts of a mannikin.

>>24276
8I

>>24279

That's why we just trick him into guarding the lair.

Maybe someone in the goblin or kobold villages will know, and we can give our little protege the wooden sword we have.

>>24272
Okay! Time to get out of this funk! Let's go out and do something! Anything! We'll make some money, hire some minions, find a damn Mannikin!
Let's go out and look for rumors. Maybe High Roller knows something. Maybe we can hire an Ogre! How much money do we have now?
We're together again! Thought and Memory! With all our cunning and wisdom combined!

And maybe, if we find a Mannikin, we can show it to Finesse. She'll get the first summoning. That... that'll make her happy again, right?

C'mon, no more moping! It's time TAKE OVER THE WORLD. Let's go, Muschio! Give us one of those trademark laughs we love so much!

Geez, everyone's stealing my Ogre idea.

BACK OFF

Now, just to be different, I recommend you get a Troll

I don't know if we should see the high roller so soon, but next time we are near his parts we should gift him our wondrous bloodstained tapestry

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)17:44 No. 24307 ID: c01408
File 124969226538.gif - (12.02KB , 800x600 , 293.gif )

Yes, acquiring a mannikin does still seem to be my top priority, thank you.

This seems as good a time as any to clarify a bit on the things.

A Mannikin is a magic artifact, and it cannot be created in the mortal realm -- they are passed down through the portals themselves. A very "chicken and egg" conundrum, I think.

How it works is that a normal, mundane object is created which resembles an EXISTING creature from the otherside realm, whether the resemblance is literal or iconic. One cannot simply cobble together a random totem or figurine, it must be representative of an extant type of monster.
Then, that portal is imbued ethereally through methods not fully understood, and it goes from being a simple effigy, totem, fetish, idol, statue, poppet, etc. to a magic Mannikin.
The Mannikin can then be linked to a Monster Portal, and the Monster Portal will then be able to summon forth an unlimited number of that type of monster.
HOWEVER, each unique individual summoned from the portal requires Mana, of a type and quantity dependent on the creature's species.

In short, think of the Portal as an automatic vendor that dispenses minions rather than snacks, and must first be stocked with one cutout cardboard drawing of every item we intend to later withdraw.

>>24307
How can we tell a mannikin apart from an everyday item?

>>24307
Okay.

So, we toss something that looks like what we want into the portal, pay our mana, and get monster. Seems simple enough.

>>24310
Er.... there's an extra step there, but yeah. Can't be hard.

>>24307
How the hell do you know what an automatic vendor is?
Or cardboard?

>>24312
dwarven engineering

>24307

Then get off that green Volta ass and go get some Cardboard Twinkies, damn, son.

Find any other local dungeons, or abandoned dungeons, or any portals near here you think you may be able to infiltrate, and GET YOUR EVIL ASS A MANNIKIN.

nya~

>>24313
those beautiful hairy bastards.

>>24310
Did you just listen on and off? Boss said that you can't make them in our realm.

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)17:50 No. 24317 ID: c01408
File 124969262059.gif - (8.02KB , 800x600 , 294.gif )

>>24309
>How can we tell a mannikin apart from an everyday item?
I don't know if there is a way. I can't sense magic innately.

>>24310
>So, we toss something that looks like what we want into the portal, pay our mana, and get monster. Seems simple enough.
Perhaps you didn't hear the step where it had to be ethereally imbued in a process no mortal can ever hope to replicate.

>>24312
>How the hell do you know what an automatic vendor is?
>Or cardboard?
Those dwarves, my friend.
Those dwarves.

You mean we finally get a description of the thing we've been told about for two chapters?

Neat

Well obviously we should find a fairy grove or something and steal one

nothing can go wrong

So what we need is a book. A book that catalogs several types of minions from the otherside realm. So we can make an idol of the EXACT monster we want.

TO THE LIBRARY!

Crix!!AxZzWyL2L2 2009/08/07(Fri)17:53 No. 24323 ID: 119488
File 124969280163.jpg - (22.50KB , 315x332 , midnapity.jpg )

>>24322
>make

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)17:54 No. 24324 ID: c01408
File 124969283814.gif - (20.70KB , 800x600 , 295.gif )

>>24318
I described it before, perhaps just not in sufficient detail.

I still have my World Map. I've asked my Minions to do some minor reconnaissance, but... who knows how capably they can be trusted to perform with a task like THAT?

Do you think the DEVIL sat around and sulked after GOD ALMIGHTY CAST HIM FROM HEAVEN? NO. HE GOT UP, CRAFTED THE NINE HELLS, AND GOT ON WITH RULING THE DAMNED. HE DIDN'T SIT ON HIS ASS WHINING ABOUT A MANNIKIN.

Evil doesn't throw a great big sulk.

Evil puts on the big boy boots, and gets shit done.

>>24325

Little late there, Kemo Sabe.

>>24324
is that FOREST SPARKLING?

THAT LOOKS AWFULLY UN-MORTAL LIKE TO ME

Hang on... if they come from portals, maybe we're going about this wrong. How do we get one out of the portal?

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)17:58 No. 24333 ID: c01408
File 124969310279.gif - (20.42KB , 800x600 , 296.gif )

>>24329
>is that FOREST SPARKLING?
That would be the Elven Woods of Shimmering Light.
Ugh.

>>24317
Well, Finesse seems rather knowledgable about these matters. Let's go and see if she knows where we might find a Mannikin... Or if she can at least point us in the right direction.

>>24329
>Forest
>sparkly
>Elves/Fey
Eugh. Let's not get tangled up in that mess unless we have to.

Okay. Well, Mushie, you're responsible for our memory. Where was the last place you saw a Mannikan? Where can we procure one, be it by bargaining or by theft?

Well, we could go steal a Mannikin from someone else. That tower or one of the 2 skulls look like promising places to look.

>>24336
We could go see our old friend the High Rolling Collector.

>>24334
wadda ya mean, they are exactly the kind of people who might have one of these

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)18:04 No. 24340 ID: c01408
File 124969348727.gif - (20.27KB , 800x600 , 297.gif )

>>24335
I've... never actually seen one myself. But I suppose the best place to look would be another dungeon, since they'd already have one collected, and we could just steal it from their portal and use it in ours.

The problem is that because Mannikins can be iconic, it's possible I might come into possession of one without realizing it -- it might be dismissed as a mundane object.
Of course, if I steal it from another portal, I could be sure that what I was carrying was a Mannikin.

Hmm. So, where do we find an object that mortals can't make?

Balls. I dunno, go to the forest of sparkly elves or something. Your guess seems to be as good as mine.

>24340

1) How can we obtain a means to tell if objects we possess, or come into the possession of, ARE in fact mannikins?

2) If we cannot obtain the aforementioned means noted in query 1, what would the results be of inserting non-mannikin objects into the portal's Mannikin receptors (I know you said you can just set them near the portal, but for the sake of the analogy.)

So, you really need two things. You need a mannikin, and you need a way of telling that what you have is actually a mannikin.

Or you could just try to link every thing you come across, ever, to the monster portal. But that would get old fast.

Think. Red only had one Monster summoned. He probably has more lying about. See if we can use those curios we looted. One of them may be a Mannikin.

>>24341
Let's try another dungeon FIRST. Elves should always be the last resort.

>>24340
Say we tried aligning an object that we think is a mannikin to the portal... But the object turned out to be not a mannikin. Would anything bad happen?

>24343

I meant Non-CONFIRMED Mannikin objects. What would the results be of trial-by-error with the objects we either possess or come into the possession of?

>>24345
yeah like the little toy sword, or other knickknacks

>it might be dismissed as a mundane object.

Or we could have erased it off a chalk board when we thought it was just scribbles... Oh shit.

>>24340
Just so we're clear on this: We already tried the wooden toy sword we have, right? No sword-monsters came out?

What about that egg-shaped container with that small yellow stone in it?

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)18:20 No. 24358 ID: c01408
File 124969445127.gif - (9.20KB , 800x600 , 298.gif )

>>24353
No, I...
Technically speaking I have not attempted to link any objects with the Monster Portal as yet.

Crix!!AxZzWyL2L2 2009/08/07(Fri)18:21 No. 24359 ID: 119488
File 124969451162.png - (72.28KB , 332x461 , Richterrr.png )

>>24358
well don't just stand there! Let's try some objects we have

>>24358
That cattle skull on the wall looks pretty monster-y. Try that.

>>24358

... Get to it then.

Try the skull on the wall. That looks Monster like.

>>24358
Use every item with every other item. They do it in all the adventure games. Maybe we'll get a junkotron rocket launcher monster.

My god, imagine if the Orb was a mannikin.

The horrors that would come out. A NECKBEARD ARMY.

It's quite possible that we already have inherited a mannikin from the previous dungeon master. Try the toy sword. If that doesn't work, try the case with the stone. If that doesn't work, try the scroll.

>>24367
I chose these things because they seem to serve no other purpose, and therefore are more likely to be used for something not readily apparent, ie, mannikins.

Hey, does the monster portal work both ways?

Maybe we could tie one of our workers to a rope, send him through, and hope he finds a mannikin~

>>24369

That can be Plan B.

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)18:39 No. 24371 ID: c01408
File 124969556960.gif - (17.01KB , 800x600 , 299.gif )

The animal skull provokes no reaction. It is likely just decoration for Red Fang's more primitive sense of fashion.
Likewise, the small toy sword triggers nothing, but I can't fathom its purpose as a mundane object.

>>24371
The orb! Try the orb!

>>24371
grade A art on that chalkboard

>>24372
Nothing can possibly go wrong with this.

>>24371
Hey boss. What about that scroll we got? You can read it, can't you boss? Can't you?

(if not, show it to Finesse)

If we are a Mannikin will that make the monster that comes out under our complete control, or will the monster be an insane sphere who only wants to rape/molest things, possibly with a relative?

>>24371
What about that odd case with the stone in it?

Also, DONT USE US.
I can't imagine anything but SAN damage coming of that.

>>24371
...ask who is actually drawing on that blackboard. Perhaps it is magical itself?

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)18:51 No. 24384 ID: c01408
File 124969630785.gif - (61.99KB , 800x600 , 300.gif )

Touching the small hinged container and its inserted gem to the Monster Portal's base produces
a
most
interesting

result

Say "Hello!"

>>24384
oh god we can see forever!

>>24384
Call out for Finesse! What the hell are we paying her for if she isn't present at our moment of triumph?

>>24384

Call out to your new servants, Muschio.

Yell for Finesse to get her ass in here, she would want to see this.

Call for the artificer in your strong, manly voice. We probably should have grabbed her ahead of time, but oh well.

>>24384
Finesse! Help me! Stop this crazy thing!

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)19:05 No. 24397 ID: c01408
File 124969709823.gif - (10.14KB , 800x600 , 301.gif )

It seems not all my attempts are so easily balked after all.

PAIN MANA

INSERT LOTS OF PAIN MANA

>>24397

Neat! Let's get rid of that chest in your room and put a mimic there.

>>24397
Well, let's see if we can figure out how to spawn one.

Of course, it might be better for all involved if we go get Finesse first.

>>24397
QUICK TELL FINESSE TO GET HER ASS IN HERE

we got the best anti adventurer monster ever

Replace the chest in the entrance hall.

FUCK YES! Set that bitch right outside the door, we don't want adventurers coming inside. Might as well cus out the part where they roam around breaking our shit up and just kill em outside the door.

>>24402
We didn't get a gazebo...

Putting it right there would arouse suspicion. Don't make it TOO obvious, put it in a corner somewhere. Adventurers have a heightened sense for spotting chests.

>>24397
What kind of mana did that take?

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)19:18 No. 24409 ID: c01408
File 124969791915.gif - (12.32KB , 800x600 , 302.gif )

Now let's just see what the requirements to summon a mimic amount to in ter-

>>24409
That's a bit spendy.

>>24409
Didn't we not have nearly that much?
So is it uncontrolled, or ...

...

Climb up behind the monster portal and push it on its face.

mimic is high-tier apparently

LETS FIND MORE

>>24412
NO.

For now, let's let Finesse examine this piece of work. She might like it I guess.

Now would be a good time to ask how we actually get various types of mana. In order to obtain deceit mana, for example, would we have to go around being deceptive?

Anyway, let's show this to Finesse and see what she makes of it.

>>24409
... okay.
No problem. No problem. We can deal with this.
How do we get Deceit Mana? Let's start thinking up some epic cons.
...
Kick the fucking chalkboard. Or just take a piece of chalk and snap it. I don't know, I just... I really need to break something now.

We really should have gotten some deceit from cheating the High Roller.

>>24409
Well, Balls.

A step at a time I suppose.

Hm... okay we need a bit more RAW MANA and alot more DECEIT MANA...
Hum... we'll have to do something pretty deceitful, but we might be able to get this all at once...
Hm...

oh my god Finesse will be so pissed

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)19:28 No. 24420 ID: c01408
File 124969849238.gif - (18.82KB , 800x600 , 303.gif )

...no, you don't understand.
Linking together the Mannikin merely gave me summoning access to the Mimic. But since I lack the proper mana types and quantities, I still can't summon anything.

If it's not one thing, it's another.

Should we lie to Finesse about what we did in an attempt to gain deceit mana?

Couldn't we also get deceit mana from luring someone into a trap? Or killing someone sneaky?

OH SHIT

>>24418

Deceit mana? Like... if you deceived a comrade and shoved them through the portal?

>>24420

Tell Finesse her giant arm is looking very lovely today.


INCOMING MANA!

>>24417
Well... the only DECEIT going on was by US, and even then that whole thing was more LUCKy than anything.

>>24420
Turn around and say hello to Finesse. Also tell her we're one more step closer to getting this thing up and running.

>>24420
We need to tell Finesse about this. It's her right to know. She built it, remember? Granted we got the new gem, but we broke it and the portal itself in the first place. Evil we may be, but deceit is for the weak.

>>24427

Jesus what's with all this kissing Finesse's ass? She works for US, remember? If she has a fucking problem with it we can just remind her that we're her boss. I mean damn. We can't be an evil overlord if we snivel down to the help.

>>24427

Plus, lest you forget, we only broke the portal last time to stop a creature from coming out and ripping our guts out through our face.

>>24420
Oh, there's Finesse.
... as wonderful as it would be to exploit her for Mana gain, she's a loyal minion, our current SIC, and deserves better than that. Just give her the lowdown on what happened.

We're probably about to do some adventuring. Ask her if she wants to come, or if not, if she needs anything while we're out.

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)19:43 No. 24434 ID: c01408
File 124969942451.gif - (8.06KB , 800x600 , 304.gif )

I attempt to explain what happened to my Goblin Tinker, but she seems to have witnessed a fair amount of the situation from the doorway.

>"I saw, Master. Not a bad show. But I guess you don't have the mana for it?"

She's right: I don't.
To be honest, the concept of Mana Gain is a little nebulous to me. It's very hard to pinpoint exactly how much of exactly what type is meted out for exactly which kinds of acts.

>>24429
>>24431
They're called labor unions. And if they have vending machines here then I don't doubt they have unions here as well. Plus, she has the knowledge on these sorts of things, if we treat her badly, she can just say screw it and leave. We may pay her, but she is not under contract or anything.

>>24420
We understand perfectly.

Destroy the portal.

Right in front of Finesse.

Looks like it's about time for a mini quest.

>>24434
So ask her.

>>24434
Well, ask her if she has any mana or any advice on procuring some.

Hey Muschio, check out that chalkboard

>>24434
Ask Finesse if she has any ideas for how to acquire more mana. Preferably in large quantities.
I mean, sure, we have a basic idea that Luck is meted out for being lucky, and Deceit for being deceitful, but we need a way to make a lot of mana very quickly!
...
Maybe we can trick the Ogres into working for free. Ogres are dumb, right?

>>24434
Apologize for not going to tell her earlier, tell her it was sort of an out of the blue thought. Then ask her a good way on how to obtain more mana reserves.

>>24434
Kiss her, you fool.

>>24435

Yes I assume the Goblin village with wooden huts has gone out of their way to create a union. Why, when we saw the village and I gazed on their dirt floors, I thought to myself "these wood-dwellers must have created some sort of program to make sure that random people who leave are properly paid for and looked after."

>>24445
Ok, treat her like dirt, see how far you get. Don't worry I'll wait, I have a few minuets.

>>24447

Oh NO! I wouldn't dream of doing anything.

After all the Goblin union may come down to have strong words with us.

>>24449
Resorting to sarcasm, eh? All out of good come backs, or are we done here?

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)19:55 No. 24451 ID: c01408
File 124970009784.gif - (7.88KB , 800x600 , 305.gif )

>"Don't know anything about generating mana. Sorry, Master.

>But there is some good news. I found a place sort of nearby that has a Mannikin we could probably make use of."

Excellent!

>>24451

Great, where is it?

... this is relevant to our interests. Ask her to proceed.

>>24450

I believe I just gave a good comeback to counter your frankly stupid idea of Goblins having unions.

>>24451

Inquire.

>>24451
Awesome! That's our Finesse, always on the ball! Be sure to congratulate her!
Where's the Mannikin?

>>24451
> I found a place sort of nearby that has a Mannikin we could probably make use of.

Eeeeexcellent.
Things may turn out in our favor yet!

>>24456
I believe I already agreed that it is rather unlikely, however you did not disprove the idea that she can just walk away, which still remains.

>>24451
Ask her, also, seriously apologize, if for any other reason then we don't need an angsty goblin sulking around the dungeon, possibly an overstatement, but still.

Muschio 2009/08/07(Fri)20:01 No. 24462 ID: c01408
File 124970047675.gif - (21.18KB , 800x600 , 306.gif )

>"Lemme see your map, Master."

>"Yeah, right here. This tower passes between masters a lot and it undergoes a lot of reconstruction. So they've gotta have something to work on that, right?
>Well word is they've got a bunch of Odds running around doing their building. Odds are simple enough that if we can get ahold 'f a Mannikin for 'em, we could summon some up real easy.
>Only problem is actually getting in there and stealing the Mannikin."

where do you STORE a mannikin that has been linked to a portal? is there a little cubbyhole in the base or what?

>>24461

I didn't disprove that she can just walk away? Was that ever the point? Of course she can just walk away, she has legs that she can use for locomotion. I was just saying that we don't need to kiss her ass and beg her to fix the portal, or apologize for fooling around with it. She works for us.

I never said she couldn't just walk away.

>>24462

What are Odds anyhow? And why the ominous capital letter O?

>>24465
>>24461
shh

>>24462
OKAY.
I say we stock up on some high power expendable minions, like ogres or trolls, take those fuckers over to the tower, and have them assault the place.
Then we steal the Mannikin using subtlety while they act as an obvious distraction.

>>24465
Meh, sorry for bringing it up then.

>>24462
Time for some stealth action. Obtain twigs and leaves for MASTERFUL DISGUISES.

>>24470

Down at the Ogre and Troll Boutique? Getting one may be easy but multiple large humanoids are just gonna pound you to jelly. Especially if you're like "I have gold to hire you guys!"

They'd just be like "we have a dead guy with gold in our camp."

>>24462
Looks like its time for some STEALTH ACTION.
Go get your CAMO and try to remember the basics of CQC!

Hire some Cat-mobsters from Sepia-town. Hire them on contract, and tell them that while you are going in there to retrieve the Mannikin, they are welcome to keep what treasures they may find while assisting you. The value you contribute to this venture is the knowledge of the location of the goods, and guide services, as well as assistance within the tower itself.

Then kill them for the treasure they find one you're ready to leave, sell the treasures, take 1/2 the gold you made selling the treasures, and take it to the surviving families of the goons you murdered, telling them of their brave demise, and telling the family that the goon's dying wishes were that their family be provided with the valuables they were working to earn.

This keeps vengeful families from hunting you, keeps your name in high regard in a society of readily hireable goons, and puts some much needed spending cash in your pocket.

>>24488
This sounds like a plan if ever I've heard one. We may need some starting funds to get the goons hired, mind. Especially since we're not exactly the most well informed regarding the layout of the fortress and the location of the goods within.

>>24488
>everyone dies except the hirer
>keeps your name in high regard in a society of readily hireable goons

...
Other than that, it's a good plan. But it seems a bit unnecessary. One Volto is more stealthy than a full party anyway. A distraction is useful, but puts the tower on alert, and as such is a very temporary blessing. Keeping it simple may be our best option.

>24495

You missed the step in the middle which was "give 1/2 of the goon's loot to his family, claiming it to be all he found, saying that he wanted them to have something to support them, with him gone."

Let's do this. The Odds are good.

...Don't blame me. Someone had to say it.

>>24496
No I didn't. I missed the part where that means everyone dying is good for your reputation. That's useful for keeping the families from slaughtering us, but it really doesn't go farther than that. Especially considering that this would have to be played off right, and Muschio is no Mudy Latral.

Try not to stare at Finesse's DELICIOUS FLAT CHEST, boss.

Has the place had any visitors in the last 4 days? Any of Red Fang's so-called raiders?

Ask finesse where the raiders came from. I think that toy sword might have something to do with this. If Red Fang has a small child, it is our duty as an evil mastermind to recruit him into our ranks and brainwash him as our right-hand strongman.

>>24507
I like the way you think. But if Red Fang's boys had been around, we'd have heard. And getting Odds takes precedence over a largely symbolic act of dominance.

Wow, still going? SWEET.

Odds are probably like that first monster we saw: small, sharp teeth, dimwitted, and weak.

>>24511
You're four hours after the last update, so I don't know about still going.

But even if the Odds are weak, they can at least do some physical labor.

>>24514
Indeed. Once we start getting those little guys out, Babrakus and Tislomer might be up for promotion.

Yo Muzzles, she's not wearing anything under that robe. She's showing off to you. She wants some affection, man.
When are you gonna pay some attention to that sweetcheeks sugarbunny?
Don't let the apple hang untill it rots, bro. Atleast pluck it, then you can eat it when you feel like it.

...so uh...boss.

Why's the gobbo chick parading around half-naked in an open robe?

>>24617
Maybe goblins don't have the same culturally ingrained sense of shame that humans do, you insensitive clod!

>>24636
What barbaric beasts!

>>24645
Are you saying there is something wrong with exposed breasts?

>>24703
I don't think you understand. Those THINGS have different cultural norms than me!

>>24704
I don't think you understand EXPOSED BREASTS

Oh geez... we're going to wind up in an orgy with our sisters and this new girl.

...wait... wrong owner.

Um... do we want to take one of our minions along on the journey? Could be risky.

>>24739
She doesn't actually have any breasts
>>24791
naw. Being stealthy and deceitful is easier with a single person. They can produce trade goods over this period of time instead. Speaking of which, how much money have we got now?

Guys, I realise this is a futile undertaking, but stop talking about breasts or the lack thereof and get back to work helping the boss.
For my two cents worth: Alone, with as much information as you can gather on the location beforehand.

>>24462
Let's go alone. More mana for us.

Plus, we can get some luck (for clearing the place out despite bad odds) and Deceit (for stealing the mannakin)

>>24900
The reason we're talking about breasts is because we're pretty much in accordance as to what the boss should do. We're just waiting on him doing it.
>>24917
I don't think stealing is enough to get deceit mana. I think we need to actually deceive people.

>>25010
Well then let's go play some muthafuggin card games. Poker, that one we played earlier... all's good, so long as it involves bluffing.

>>25045
Mana is generated by 'great acts' not from bluffing a kobold in poker.

>>25079
What about our match with the High Roller?

What if we bluff our way into the tower and take the 'kin for our own?

Alternatively, we could just hack our way through, and get different sorts of mana.

But I want one mimic. Just one.

>>25103
Bluffing into the tower totally should do it. But I'm not sure I trust /quest/ and Muschio to successfully do that. It's worth a try, at least. However, while getting a mimic would be cool, it's not really an immediate goal, as mimics are pretty much incapable of physical labor.

>>25119
They can hold stuff. If they can talk, more company is always nice.

>>25210
And we can make more chest puns.
Oh boy.

>.>

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)14:16 No. 25808 ID: c01408
File 124985258156.gif - (19.11KB , 800x600 , 307.gif )

Very well, I shall make plans to set out at once.

"Finesse, I'm going to be setting out for the tower presently. That mannikin is essential to our foundation of power, and in its acquisition I believe I can acquire additional mana to fuel future summonings. I may take some potions from Tislomer before I set out."

>"As you like, master. But I can't come with you. I'm not a fighter."

"I don't expect you to. You can stay here and look after the kobolds, make sure they don't get into any trouble."

>"Oh. Okay. Yeah, got it."

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)14:17 No. 25811 ID: c01408
File 124985262885.gif - (18.42KB , 800x600 , 308.gif )

Well, I think that went well.

What should I do to prepare for my journey before I leave?

>>25808
Erase that board before you go out.
Insubordination will not be tolerated.

>>25811
Wipe off the chalkboard.

What CAN we do short of bringing some potions and putting on the sword&board?

Well, what we should do is set up camp outside the place for a few days to get an idea about the comings and goings of the place. Maybe we could sneak in between guard shifts, or if they bring in a lot of stuff disguise ourself as the delivery boy. Ya know, survey the place a bit.

>>25820
Or we could go in punching and kicking like the fist of the north star! It seems more his style, blunder on obliviously and grin and bare it.

>>25811
Go over weapon/armor/abilities/mana pool.

>>25811
a good villan requires proper attire. your lack of hat/headgear will be your undoing. previous attempts (the helmet, the cat's hat) are only further proof that your headgear must be of a special type, that you may still benefit from your hairstyle and your unique facial structure.
prehaps a pair of goggles to wear on your head. or maybe that skull you tried in the portal.

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)14:29 No. 25832 ID: c01408
File 124985338926.gif - (6.44KB , 800x600 , 309.gif )

I quickly erase the insubordination recorded on the blackboard.

I make a mental note to punish whoever's responsible.

>>25832
Hey, making light of troubles is good for morale, and the problem with being a master of minions with low morale is that there are more of them than you.

Be cautious about being too strict.

>>25832
What if it was Finesse? Maybe we can give her a spanking~

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)14:33 No. 25846 ID: c01408
File 124985363119.gif - (6.52KB , 800x600 , 310.gif )

Here's my collective inventory. It hasn't changed much since the last time I went out. I don't think I'm forgetting anything.
My two kobold minions have made an income of about 5gp/day each, for a net gain of 40 gold since my last check.

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)14:34 No. 25848 ID: c01408
File 124985366892.gif - (18.79KB , 800x600 , 311.gif )

As for my mana... that's a good point, actually. I haven't checked it since before I visited Sepia Town.

Let's see where I stand.

Pick up some potions. Another sleep potion would be handy, for one. Plus anything for healing or what have you. (Though he can't be that good with healing and ipecac and such or else he'd have healed the little kobold girl earlier)

Plus your sword, shield, some supplies, food, and water for the trip, a bag to carry loot, and the flyssa. It's proven unexpectedly useful before.

>>25848
I've been meaning to ask... what's the Love mana for, Muschio? Who did you love enough to generate mana?

Oh my, where'd the Love mana come from~

>>25852
>>25854
The kobold I reckon. It sure did look up to him alot.

>>25854
probably that guy who visited him about that lady in a tower.

>>25854
>I feel betters!

>>25848
>1 LOVE MANA
Hahah!
Oh my~
Where did that come from, I wonder, nya?~

Commission a bed already. Sleeping on that desk will ruin your spine, boss.

>>25855
But that happened before he left for sepia town, which is when he said he last checked. The love mana appeared since then, so that can't be it.

Okay! Even if we can't find the mannakin, we'll turn a profit with expe-er, mana.

Let's head out!

Where did the Growth mana come from, for that matter?

Suggestion 2009/08/09(Sun)14:59 No. 25903 ID: f2de2f
File 124985519693.png - (10.19KB , 694x768 , lovemana.png )

>>25870
Maybe staring a bit too hard at this caused it? Nya~ <3

>>25855
Don't be silly, Babrakus loves Tislomer (Just look at what was on the blackboard~), he only respects Muschio.

>>25901
Growth as a person and along our goals.

Man, this is some pretty vague stuff. I like it.

>>25901
We've been growing crops outfront, havn't we? Could that be responsible?

>>25908
1 Love mana, 1 Growth mana, you figure it out.

>>25907
wrong kobold. The one in question was the one we healed.

Enough nonsense. Here's what you take:
Sword (your preference), Shield, Rod of Healing (for poking things), Potion of not-hurting, oil, rope, torch. Some food would be good, too, and water as well.

>>25920
>potion of not hurting
but then we wouldn't get pain mana.

Also, dispose of the rotting meat.

>>25929
I thing Muschio'd prefer losing mana to losing his life.

>>25929
Don't dispose of the rotting meat. We might be able to use it. It could be good fertalizer or it could attract/distract a particularilly foul beast.

>>25929
>>25920
(Other than that, though, good list. Of the two swords, I believe our original was better. If we could get a properly balanced rapier or smallsword at some point, that would be ideal, but our own personal armament takes a backseat to our broader-scaled ambitions.)

Healing can be painful. See the first chapter and the spike trap. Fuck.

A detailed summary of your skills would be helpful. We know you're skilled with fencing-style swordfighting, and know a spell that can create fire, but it would be helpful to have a more accurate understanding of the extent of your personal abilities.

So, our final list is, apparently, as follows:

Broadsword, Shield, Rod of Healing (for poking things), Potion of healing (not including painkiller), oil, rope, torch. food (let's say enough for 120% of the time we expect to be gone.)

Any issues, or should we proceed?

>>25977

Money

>>25983
Ah, yes. Ideally, we shouldn't need it, but it's certainly a good idea to have some just in case. 20 coins should be sufficient.

Any amount of money we carry is going to be exactly 80% of the money we need to purchase what we desire. Knowing this fact is called being genre savvy. But sure. Carry all the money.

>>26000
We're not actually planning to purchase anything.

We're not PLANNING to, no. Doesn't mean an opportunity won't arise.

>>26006
which is why we're bringing any money at all. We might, at some point, need to shell out a few gold to someone to not mention they saw us for a few hours. That's the only real possibility for expenditure. And worst-case scenario, killing the guard is almost as good.

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)17:58 No. 26023 ID: c01408
File 12498658996.gif - (6.20KB , 800x600 , 312.gif )

Babrakus says he can make me a simple bed for 10 gold.
Tislomer has limited recipes and shows me what he has to offer. I realize I still have the minor healing potion he gave me earlier and I hold onto that.

I'll also be bringing my:
Sword and shield
Depleted rod of Healing
Jug of Oil
Bite of Rope
Torch

Food isn't an issue when I'm here, since I can just eat the modest crops Tislomer produces, but when I go out, I probably should bring something along just in case the journey ends up being a lengthy one.
So for food, I'll bring the Bread, Cheese, and Minotaur's Milk.

>>26023
Where... where did you get the milk?

>>26026
Female minotaur, better not to ask. GET ON WITH IT.

>>26023
We're doing stealth action so get at least one sleep potion.

Can sleep be used by putting some on a weapon blade? either way, it does seem like it would be useful.

I'd say spend the money on a potion of blindness, for potential flinging-into of people's eyes, providing it wouldn't delay the trip.

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)18:12 No. 26040 ID: c01408
File 124986673086.gif - (9.03KB , 800x600 , 313.gif )

>>26026
>Where... where did you get the milk?
It was in the item box when I first looted it, remember?

The potions can all be whipped up handily, so it won't delay the trip.

>>26040
wear the animal skull as a mask!

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)18:20 No. 26049 ID: c01408
File 124986725435.gif - (6.13KB , 800x600 , 314.gif )

>>26043
Hrm.

>>26049
Awesome!

>>26040
Hasn't that milk been in there for a bit too long?

>>26049
Hmm... maybe we should put a hat on too...

Potion of Blindness, Potion of Sleep... see if you can get a few small empty vials with stoppers as well. Since you've got a jug of oil, you could cobble together some fire bombs or chuckable slick spots if the need arose.
A secondary goal should probably be to improve our alchemical options. Even with what we've got, we have fun possibilities.

>>26049
Not half bad, Muscio.

>>26049
...I like it!

Though it may not hide your identity well. What with the, uh, giant nose, and all.

>>26043
It wouldn't fit

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)18:23 No. 26059 ID: c01408
File 12498674004.gif - (6.37KB , 800x600 , 315.gif )

>>26053

>>26059
There. Perfect. We've finally got it.
We just need to put some horns on it now...

Remind me again why you listen to us.

>>26059
BRILLIANT!

continue to wear this.

>>26060
It HAS horns.

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)18:26 No. 26064 ID: c01408
File 124986759221.gif - (6.43KB , 800x600 , 316.gif )

I just remembered I have another hat too.

As long as I'm stacking ridiculous haberdashery upon my scalp, perhaps you would like this as well.

>>26064
now you're just being silly.

>>26064
Okay okay, get the potions and let's get to work.

>>26064
Well, now you're just being silly.

>>26064
naw, that's just silly.

>>26064
Seriously? No wonder you listen to us... put that hat UNDER the first hat. Geeze.

Just. Take the hats and the skull off and go get those potions before this train of thought can proceed to its logical conclusion of wearing everything on your head.

>>26065
>>26067
>>26068
sillymind!

as a sidenote, we could probably paint runes on the skull for maximum awesome. Runes make everything better.

>>26059
Actually, the skull doesn't look too bad on you. It's got kindof an Evil Overlord feel to it. You've usually got more of a Mad Scientist look, with that hair.
But maybe we should only save it for special occasions. Y'know, when we want to look imposing.

I say go ahead and commission that bed, it'll be done by the time we get back. After that, we should probably stock up on a couple extra healing potions, and anything else the other voices think we need.

>>26075
Agreed.

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)18:35 No. 26078 ID: c01408
File 124986811667.gif - (9.78KB , 800x600 , 317.gif )

NO, NO! As long as I'm stacking ridiculous garbage on my face I might as well go with gusto!

After all, I need to look as "badass" as possible!

>>26078
That's quite a dexterous feat, actually.
I bet you stack dice like a motherfucker.

I think you look good with just the skull, Muzzles. <3

>>26078
never had to say this before.

U mad, Muscio?

Cruxador 2009/08/09(Sun)18:39 No. 26082 ID: 98dab8
File 124986834310.gif - (6.41KB , 800x600 , Muschioskull.gif )

With naught but a few minor modifications, the skull can become a truly epic piece of headgear!

>>26078
Are you still pissed that we left?

Muschio 2009/08/09(Sun)18:43 No. 26084 ID: c01408
File 124986857941.gif - (10.83KB , 800x600 , 318.gif )

Mad? I'm not mad! I'm just following your fantastic fashion advice!

HERE!
YOU WANT HEADGEAR? I'LL SHOW YOU HEADGEAR
HOW'S THAT
TELL ME WHAT THE VIEW IS LIKE FROM UP THERE

As soon as you get yourself a decent hat, this nonsense stops. Just for its own sake, you may want to put that a stitch higher on your to-do list.

>>26084
Pretty nice.

Squeegy!OeZ2B20kbk 2009/08/09(Sun)18:44 No. 26087 ID: d5b2d6
File 124986866063.gif - (9.79KB , 222x221 , quitgettinmad2.gif )

>>26084

>>26084

This is silly. Lets just get going shall we?

>>26084
I can see forever!

>>26084
Que Finesse.

>>26084
Let's leave his headgear alone, guys. I think that long face of his is quite cute.

Seriously, boss. Let's make stocking up a priority. Do we have any means of recharging that wand of healing? We cannot recall how wands work. Perhaps you would know?