Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)13:15 No. 30358 ID: 1f5d37
File 125045373680.jpg - (235.80KB , 1080x675 , 1.jpg )

His master, the great warlock Zorsuz Blacksoul, has tasked him with crossing the Desert of Ruin to bring an item to his fellow warlock, Xix Ryxix.

Spikesby is a Snikt, created through magic, and doesn't need to eat or drink.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)13:17 No. 30359 ID: 1f5d37
File 12504538532.jpg - (237.06KB , 1080x675 , 2.jpg )

He smells many strange smells on the hot desert wind, and thinks he hears a woman's scream!

Should he investigate, continue on his business, or do something else entirely?

>>30359
Investigate.

Also what is item we are delivering?

>>30359

Might as well. But those towers in the background do look neat

>>30359
Are you even free willed? Being created and everything.
If yes, yeah sure take a look. But better don't take any risks.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)13:23 No. 30369 ID: 1f5d37
File 125045420926.jpg - (67.08KB , 300x300 , reaction.jpg )

>>30365
Spikesby decides to head toward the screams.

He's delivering a Skullbox, but he doesn't know what's in it. He can store one item in his gullet, and has to reguritate whatever he's carrying before he can swallow something else.

>>30369
Maybe give us some back ground info on your master. What kinda warlock are we talking about here?

>>30369
Dear lord, why do you look so sad? Is your master cruel or something?

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)13:31 No. 30374 ID: 1f5d37
File 125045467260.jpg - (67.08KB , 300x300 , reaction2.jpg )

>>30367
>>30370

Spikesby has free will, although his will is limited by his master's commands. As long as he's generally delivering the box, he can do whatever else he wants.

Zorsus Blacksoul is one of the 10 magicians in the known world. They each live in separate towers spread across the countryside. A long time ago, they warred with one another and almost destroyed the world, so now they agree to live and let live.

Zorsus is a hunched, cloaked figure that very rarely deals with mortals. Some come to trade away something of value for spells or power. He often asks for their ability to feel kindness or love in exchange for his gifts.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)13:33 No. 30377 ID: 1f5d37
File 125045478260.jpg - (382.31KB , 1440x900 , 3.jpg )

>>30371
Spikesby's never been out on his own before, so he's worried about doing a good job.

He approaches the screams, and sees a poor Ophian being prodded and jeered at by a couple of rock goblins. The goblins haven't noticed him just yet.

Well... alright, Spikesby. How good can you defend yourself? Physical prowess, if any? Magical gifts? Those rock goblins could be trouble.

Sounds evil. We'll have to do a bunch of good to make up for it. Lets go see about that woman screaming.

>>30377
Take no shit! Punch those goblins out!

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)13:41 No. 30383 ID: 1f5d37
File 12504552983.jpg - (48.86KB , 333x322 , wepon.jpg )

>>30378
Spikesby's hide is magically tough and difficult to injure. He's got a bitey beak of a mouth and huge, sharp swords instead of hands. He's also go a vicious spike on the end of his tail. He's never been trained to fight, per-se, but being a snikt, he's got some instinctual combat prowess.

Attack only if you're sure you can take them.

And Blacksoul likes kindness and love, eh? Sounds like a swell guy.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)13:44 No. 30388 ID: 1f5d37
File 125045548036.jpg - (437.26KB , 1440x900 , 4.jpg )

>>30381
Spikes gets closer, and the goblins notice him. One hangs back, unsure, but the other seems intent on violence.

Spikesby isn't sure exactly how to handle the situation.

>>30384

He takes people's ability to love in exchange for power.

>>30383

Kill those goblins! Tail snap!

Yes, take those gobbos out! We have Ophians to rescue!

>>30388
Are your blade-arms sharp enough to cleave the shaft of that polearm? We don't want him having the advantage of reach.

>>30384
No, he just doesn't want others to have it. Ha. Ha. Ha.
Also, Spikesby x Ophian chick. First perverted suggestion GO!

>>30388
There a damsel in distress and you've got SWORDS FOR HANDS. It's not that hard to see what happens next.

AGGRESS!

The tail looks like it got some reach.
Swing at the goblin with it.

TAKE NO SHIT! PUNCH THOSE FUCKERS OUT!

>>30388
Sniktchu! Use tail whip!

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)14:01 No. 30404 ID: 1f5d37
File 125045650481.jpg - (435.37KB , 1440x900 , 5.jpg )

Spikesby AGRESSES.

Apparently, he's a pretty decent fighter.

The goblin's spear snaps like a twig and both of Spikesby's swords punch easily through its meat and bones. His tail isn't quite long enough to reach though. The other goblin looks kinda jumpy. What should he do now?

>>30404
Attack second goblin, don't let him go away. He'll alert his tribe and you can't deal with to many at once.

>>30404
Leap onto his face.
Stab away.

>>30404

Bite his face off.

Slowly approach the gobbo in an intimidating manner. Charging straight-out might get us a gut full of spear.

If he turns tail, though, hunt his ass down.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)14:20 No. 30412 ID: 1f5d37
File 12504576141.jpg - (282.52KB , 1080x675 , 6.jpg )

Spikesby'd better get that other gobbo!

He leaps onto it and begins to savage it with his swords and beak. It never stood a chance!

Check up on that poor... Ophian, was it? Check up on it! ... try to wipe blood off beak first.

>>30412
And...
Shit, we can't really pick her up with our SWORDARMS.
Grab her collar with mouth and start dragging her away?
Or is she concious?

Inspect snake lady for damage. And clean off some of that blood. Preferably not on the snake lady. She'll freak out bad enough already.

>>30412

Can you talk? Ask her if she needs help getting home.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)14:32 No. 30429 ID: 1f5d37
File 125045832532.jpg - (312.15KB , 1080x675 , 7.jpg )

The ophian seems to be coming to. She slowly stands as Spikesby rubs as much of the blood as he can manage off onto the sand.

He asks her if she is ok..

>>"wak wak wak wak!"

...but she doesn't seem to understand him.

She says her name is Ria, and she slept in with a group that was camping. They left her behind, the jackasses, and now she is stuck out here.

The rock goblins hadn't managed to do anything just yet, but she was desperately worried about what they were going to do!

>>30429
Dice one of the goblins and give it to her as a peace offering.

Or keep going.

>>30429

Motion for her to come with you. We can keep her safe while we deliver the box.

>>30429
Can we write in the sand or something?
How do you normally communicate? "wak wak wak" doesn't sound like a real language.

>>30429
Tell her she can come wi- er... gesture that she should follow you.

Yes, the literacy question is a big one. If we can write, we should try writing a message in the sand. If not, use body language in a 'come with me' sense.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)14:54 No. 30447 ID: 1f5d37
File 125045964229.jpg - (217.30KB , 800x500 , Peace offering.jpg )

Spikesby makes a peace offering, but Ria doesn't seem to interested in it. Maybe ophians dont' eat that...

Ria doesn't seem to understand him though. Its funny, Lord Blacksoul understands him, and so do most of the smarter animals he's encountered.

Unfortunately, he doesn't know how to read or write, but several gestures later, he gets Ria to come along.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)14:57 No. 30448 ID: 1f5d37
File 125045986425.jpg - (313.89KB , 941x896 , 8.jpg )

Ria and Spikesby set off through the desert. They have now reached an Understanding. Ria can translate Spikesby's gestures and "wak waks" for other people they may encounter.

Where is Spikesby taking her, by the way?

>>30448

Ermm, lets just bring the worm lady along with us until we reach a settlement of some sort. We can go from there.

I'm all for being trusting to complete strangers, but we have an important mission and we really should have an eye on her.
We don't want to disappoint our kindly master, right?

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)15:04 No. 30451 ID: 1f5d37
File 125046027043.jpg - (113.33KB , 612x582 , 9.jpg )

((Oh, sorry guys! I missed all of the 'take her to deliver the box' parts of those suggestions))

Spikesby decides to continue on his way toward Xix Ryxix's tower.

He travels tirelessly, and the Ophian likewise seems unperturbed by the heat.

Eventually, day turns into night, and Spikesby decides he should probably rest. He should reach Ryxix's tower around noon the next day.

Any special preparations for making camp/further suggestions?

>>30452

Try and make a gesture for fire and/or take turns keeping watch? Scout out the surrounding area for any potential danger/food?

>>30451

Burrow in sand for the night.

You say you don't need to eat or drink. Do you need anything else to keep you going or really nothing at all.
Try to find out if the snake chick needs anything.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)15:23 No. 30468 ID: 1f5d37
File 125046139931.jpg - (41.41KB , 300x300 , reaction3.jpg )

Ria says she eats dainty finger sandwiches mostly, canned beans in a fix, but Spikesby doesn't see any of that stuff.

He doesn't see any firewood, either, but the night isn't very cold to him, and Ria says it isn't too much of a problem for her, either. She asks where Spikesby is taking her, anyway?

>>30467

Spikesby is fueled by magical energy that he abosorbs from the air around him. He has to sleep, but doesn't need to eat or drink. He is also fairly resistant to discomfort in general. He doesn't feel particularly hot or cold.

>>30465

Burrowing in the sand sounds like an awesome idea. He'll do that and turn in for the night if there isn't anything else.

>>30468

Draw a tower and an arrow to it.

>>30468

Tell her we're gonna make a delivery. Unless there's anywhere she wants to go.

Since you can't talk, point in the direction you're taking her.
And yeah I don't know what else to do this night.

Now that you and Ria have reached an Understanding, she can easily make sense of your gestures and noises, so you can communicate directly with her.

She seems rather upset when you point out where you are going.

>>"Lord Ryxix's tower? Wh... why would you want to go there? He eats entire caravans whole if they go too close! We should go anywhere else instead!"

>>30472

No blabbing about deliveries. Bringing the box to destination means protecting it also. No trusting strange Ophian's whose story might not add up. Helping is ok, cutting our belly open is not.

>>30475

Draw a box over the destination tower and arrow back to your tower. Were a courier on our way to pick up a package... not deliver. Draw all points of intrest you can remember between your destination and you that don't deviate much from the path. Offer to take her relatively close to one of these.

>>30477

Let's go to one of the other towers in the background. Maybe one of the other wizards will give us something neat for the skullbox.

>>30475
>>30477


((These two things go together, sorry))

>>30476
He just points out the destination, and doesn't make mention of the skullbox.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)15:53 No. 30488 ID: 1f5d37
File 125046319354.jpg - (104.44KB , 800x500 , sand2.jpg )

To the best of your ability, you draw what you saw on the way. Other than abandoned towers, there wasn't anything of note besides your encounter with her.

She draws her own map. She was traveling from Llewn to Corfair when her group left her. The maps aren't to scale. She was only traveling a day, and Spikesby has been in the desert for almost a week now.

>>Is it safe to be going that way? Even if you are a courier, how do you know that Ryxix isn't just going to eat you?

>>30485
The towers that litter the landscape are from long ago. This land used to be fertile and populated, but now it is a blasted desert. It happened during the wizards' war.

The towers are either abandoned, or home to some creatures that have subsequently moved in. He can still investigate, but there won't be any wizards inside.

>>30488
Shrug.

>>30488
It's our duty. We don't want, or even can, question that.

>>30488

Oh, such is the life of the magical familiar. Indicate acceptance of harsh facts of life and that's why you never smile. If her destination is too far off the path point for her to go on her own. If she fears for her life and insists on following you to her doom reassure you will protect her as far as you can with TOOTHY smile.

>>30496
>Oh, such is the life of the magical familiar.

Such is life for Gypsy in Mother Russia.
And no amount of running can save you.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)16:18 No. 30501 ID: 1f5d37
File 125046471960.jpg - (67.48KB , 800x500 , Talkingnight.jpg )

>>30493
>>30496

Spikesby indicates that he does what he must do.

He points out that she is free not to follow him, but he is going to Xix's tower, and she can come along if she wants to go there. He'll try to protect her!

He attempts a tooth smile, but he doesn't have any teeth, really.

Ria says that she doesn't really know how to get back home, or anywhere else for that matter. She guesses she'll stick around and just try and be extra cautious.

>>30501

Okay, burrow in sand close to her for the night.

Any chance on happening on an oasis or something where we can leave her to relative safety while we make our delivery to caravan eating monster? Hopefully we can show her to city on our return trip... if there is one.

>>30509
Spikesby hasn't seen any on the way here, but maybe there are some farther in. He'll keep an eye out for a safe place to put her.

He burrows in the sand, listening as Ria nervously settles into sleep, before drifting off himself.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/16(Sun)16:41 No. 30514 ID: 1f5d37
File 125046606699.jpg - (90.22KB , 641x503 , 1 end.jpg )

((I'm gonna go ahead and end here. Next session should be next Sunday! This is my first quest, and I have a few things to figure out, obviously. Thanks a lot for playing, and I hope you had fun.))

>>30514
I enjoyed it so far, good compromise between art quality and update speed and promising story.
Spikesby is the most adorable abomination.

>>30518
I just saw this thread as it finished.


I regret that

Suggestion 2009/08/23(Sun)16:13 No. 33433 ID: 1f5d37
File 12510691943.jpg - (138.60KB , 400x400 , Title.jpg )

Spikesby Biteface wriggles out of the sand as dawn breaks over the Desert of Ruin. He's got a lot to think about as he gets ready to continue his quest to the tower of the feared warlock, Xix Ryxix.

>>33433

Is Ria anywhere? If yes, try to wake up and set out for ADVENTURE!

Or delivering the box, at least.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)16:23 No. 33436 ID: 1f5d37
File 125106978352.jpg - (89.14KB , 355x491 , Ria.jpg )

((oops, forgot my trip!))

After Ria wakes up, they begin to make their way across the vast desert in the direction of Ryxix's tower.

After walking for a while, Ria begins talking to Spikesby.

>>"I don't know how long you can go for, but this heat is really starting to get to me. I'm feeling kinda thirsty too. If we see someplace to rest, could we stop for a while?"

Spikesby feels neither heat nor thirst, so he really isn't sure how to respond.

>>33433
Onwards to the mage tower.

>>33436

Well, we can probably manage a little detour. See if there's a cactus or few around, those have water. Or, you know, if there's any actual water.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)16:30 No. 33440 ID: 1f5d37
File 125107020884.jpg - (115.04KB , 700x450 , 1.jpg )

Spikesby scans the horizon. He thinks he spots something there... hidden in the dunes. It isn't too far off. Of course there are also some abandoned towers, but they look much further away.

The worst thing about the Desert of Ruin is that it isn't a naturally occuring desert; it was created through magic that blighted the land. Almost nothing grows here that Spikesby knows of. Just long expanses of dunes and ruins, with the occasional oasis.

The goblins have to eat something though, its a mystery beyond Spikesby's knowledge.

>>33440

Those look like trees. Trees stronly suggest there might be water because they kind of die without. Examine treelike discovery closer.

>>33440

Set course for nearest shade you can see. While she rests we can do a quick scout for possible water.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)16:40 No. 33444 ID: 1f5d37
File 125107083759.jpg - (236.27KB , 700x450 , 2.jpg )

The trees seem to be the closest shade, so Spikesby heads that way. After a couple of hours of walking, they reach the oasis.

High dunes eclipse it on all sides, and the trees rapidly become very dense. As they approach the edge, they hear voices from deep within the foliage.

They are speaking quietly, but Spikesby and Ria can clearly hear them.

>>Voice 1 "It looks like a damn snake with a monster."

>>Voice 2 "Get the Gaur. If there is a monster with her, she's probably an adept."

>>Voice 1, speaking to the party: "Who goes there? We don't want any trouble."

((because Spikesby has an Understanding with Ria, he can communicate with her normally, but she'll be the one speaking to the mysterious voices.))

>>33444

"We just want to rest a bit and have a drink. We'll be gone after that."

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)16:51 No. 33447 ID: 1f5d37
File 125107147334.jpg - (273.12KB , 700x450 , 3.jpg )

>>"We just want to rest a bit and have a drink. We'll be gone after that," Ria says.

Three figures emerge from the treeline. There are two Ravians and a Gour. The Ravians look uneasily back and fourth, splitting their time between Ria and Spikesby.

The Gour appears to only have one arm, and no weapons. He wears a leather mask over his face with a single, enormous blue lens on the right side. He grins at Spikesby.

>>The male Ravian speaks. "Are you an adept? We don't want trouble."

>>The female Ravian turns to her companion, "Of course she's an adept, that is obviously some kind of wizard's monster with her. I don't see anything missing though, so there's no telling what she's lost. Compassion? Love? I say we shoot them."

The male waves at her, but doesn't take his hand off his gun.

>>"We don't know anything yet. You," here he points at Ria, "Explain your situation."

>>33447

Let's act like Ria is a high and mighty adept. And let's tell them we just want to rest for a bit before carrying on. Our matters need not concern them, and we wouldn't even want that. And neither would they.

>>33447
Well being honest can't hurt. Have her tell the truth.

>>33447

Tell you were lost in desert and a familiar happened upon you and kindly helped. The snikt is currently traveling to a very dangerous location and since you are not a adept could you please be allowed to wait here. At least until the snikt returns and escorts you back to civilization, if it returns. Food and water wouldn't hurt either.

>>33448
>>33449

Well, I've got one suggestion for each (at exactly the same time too!), so we need a tiebreaker. Pretend to be an Adept, or tell them what's going on?

The adepts are people who have traded something to one of the Wizards in exchange for arcane power. They can do magic and some can command magical creatures like Snikts. What the wizards ask for varies wildly.

Spikesby presumes that the Gour with the missing arm is likely to be an adept. That makes him a particularly dangerous opponent for Spikesby.

How fast are you by the way when you are not dragging Ophian's around? I take it you have never been hurt so you don't know how you would deal with that?

>>33447
We can't fight somebody with a gun. Just tell 'em what we're up to and they'll most likely let us pass.

>>33454

I dunno, Spikesby does have magical armor. He doesn't seem too intimidated by the guns.

I think he's more worried about the big guy hitting him with a spell.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)17:16 No. 33459 ID: 1f5d37
File 125107296740.jpg - (80.22KB , 480x300 , 4.jpg )

Ria tells the Ravians the basics of what happened, and asks for some food and water.

The male seems to be in charge, and answers her.

>>"So, he's on wizard's business. Well, I guess that makes you harmless enough. There is a well back there with our wagon that I suppose we could let you use. As for food, we have our rations, so unless you've got something to trade or some money, I think we'll be keeping them."

Spikesby is extremely dexterous and fast. He could probably leap onto one of the Ravians before they had time to fire. Never having been shot, he doesn't know if bullets are strong enough to penetrate his magically-strengthened skin.

The Gour keeps grinning at him.

The other Ravian speaks up.

>>"Hey, you can come, but tell that monster to go on. Wizards are nothing but trouble."

Ria turns to look at Spikseby.

>>33459

That... doesn't seem like a good idea. At all. Let's wait here and be ready if something happens.

>>33459

Indicate you'll wait right here if she wants you to.

Battleplan just in case: Fast as you can straight for the blue lense as hard as you can. You'll eat a few bullets but let's risk that instead of mister grin.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)17:26 No. 33463 ID: 1f5d37
File 125107360882.jpg - (250.86KB , 700x450 , 5.jpg )

Ria tells the male Ravian that she'll go to the well. He escorts her back into the trees. Spikesby waits in the sand.

He considers his situation. It could be dangerous to bring her to the tower. On the other hand, these folks don't seem all that nice.

The Gour keeps staring at him (he guesses, the creature's eyes are covered by the mask, and he can't really see through the lens).

The female Ravian turns to the Gour.

>>"What is it anyway? Can we kill it?

His voice is rough and deep.

>>"Its a snikt. They're fast and tough, but I think if you shoot it enough, it'll die. Depending on whose controlling it, I might be able to do something for you."

>>"So shoot it? What the fuck are we paying you for, anyway?"

The female ravian looks nervous. She starts to sweat.

>>33463

Just keep your attention on the Ravian. Don't attack, she's just worked up. If either one of them make a wrong move, gut them though.

>>33463

Battleplan might become neccessary, I hope you're in good stance to execute it because we are not provoking anything.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)17:45 No. 33468 ID: 1f5d37
File 125107475788.jpg - (101.51KB , 361x330 , 6.jpg )

Spikesby waits for several minutes and doesn't hear anything. He could definitely tell if there was a gunshot. Maybe Ria is just resting?

After a while, the Gour begins talking.

>>"So, snikt, how does it feel to be the dogsbody of the most evil powers in existance? It must be pretty rough knowing that everything you do brings untold pain to untold numbers."

>>"That Ophian is as good as dead if she stays with you. You're going to Lord Xix, aren't you? Why else would you be this far in? Well, I know Lord Xix. I gave him my arm, after all... Unless, oh yeah, that's got to be it. She's the present, isn't she? A snack for him, eh? Happy circumstance to sweeten whatever deal your boss has made? He'll love her. He was real close with Lady Kzaara. Real close."

The ravian looks extremely nervous at this point. She whispers to the Gour.

>>"Wha.. what the fuck are you doing? Are you taunting it?"

The Gour just laughs.

>>33468

Battleplan went to hell in a handbasket. Ravian first, then the Gour.

Will this one understand us, let's see if he cares. "Do you want to protect her then against me?"
>wak wak wak wak

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)18:06 No. 33473 ID: 1f5d37
File 125107600445.jpg - (101.51KB , 361x330 , 7a.jpg )

"Wak wak wak wak wak!" Spikesby interjects! He keeps the battle plan firmly in mind.

>>"W... What the fuck is it doing?!" shouts the Ravian.

She looks like she's on the verge of freaking out. The Gour ignores her and continues talking to Spikesby.

>>"I don't understand you, snikt, because I'm not a monster. Couldn't have creatures with actual souls hearing how they're about to be abused or devoured. It's meaningless. You serve evil, but here I let you go on about your business. Wouldn't it be better, wouldn't I be doing good if I killed you here?"

>>"Seriously!" Shouts the Ravian, sweat dripping down her neck, "What the fuck are you doing?!"

>>"Don't worry," says the Gour, "against the wizards, there is nothing mortals like me or you can do. I'm just having some fun before I die."

He beings to laugh uproariously.

Spikesby has no idea what he should do. all is quiet from the woods behind the Gour.

>>33473
Keep wak waking at him, try to make is sound calm

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)18:14 No. 33475 ID: 1f5d37
File 125107645175.jpg - (257.90KB , 700x450 , 7b.jpg )

The other Ravian approaches. He looks around with consternation.

>>"What, exactly is going on here?"

>>"That fucking adept is crazy!" the female shouts, "He's trying to get that monster to kill us!"

The Gour just laughs.

>>"You need to learn to control your woman, Ravian, she almost just got herself killed."

His laughter slows down. Now, he just grins.

>>The male speaks again, "That snake is fine. She's sleeping over by the well. I don't know what happened here, but I don't trust you. I don't want you to come any close. Wait there as long as you want, or go about your business, but you aren't coming any closer."

The last statement was addressed to Spikesby. What does he want to do?

>>33474
The gun-toting Ravian is freaking out because she doesn't know those noises are the only verbal communication Spikesby can make.

Are you sure making more noises will calm her down? It would probably be more prudent to just ignore the Gour, he's obviously trolling.

>>33478

Setting camp here until Ria wakes up, let's see if these ones will move on with their wagon or if they are stable enough to leave Ria alone. If so we'll say our goodbyes to Ria when so wakes, if not... well, we can decide to make room or not.

Spikesby decides to be quiet. He has a nice stare-off until Ria approaches.

She addresses him.

>>"So, are we off to see Ryxix now, or did you change your mind about bringing me? Llewin said they are staying here until after dark, then they'll start traveling to Suri."

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)18:28 No. 33486 ID: 1f5d37
File 125107729979.jpg - (684.10KB , 1400x900 , 7.jpg )

((fergot mah pic))

>>33486

Let her stay. This warlock sounds bad.

>>33486

Tell the Ravians seem ok but the Gor is has been baking in the sun too long. If she thinks she trust the likes of them she can ask for a ride. Otherwise we'll wait for them to leave and consider this a waiting point for her. Gone for two days at most, if not back then, dead.

I say we take her to another oasis. These people seem unstable.

>>33492

Then we wait for them to leave. Also, this seems Mad Maxi's setting. Everyone's a little kooky.

She is probably safer with them than at Xix Ryxix's tower.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)18:58 No. 33502 ID: 1f5d37
File 125107911385.jpg - (99.56KB , 339x322 , 8.jpg )

Ria and Spikesby confer.

>>"I heard what was happening out here," she says.

>>"It's probably because he's an adept, anybody who deals closely with a Wizard seems kinda..."

She pauses, laying an appendage across Spikesby's head,

>>"er... no offense or anything. I know you're a stand-up guy."

Spikesby indicates that they should wait until the Ravians leave and then she should wait at the oasis for him. If he's gone for more than a couple of days, she should probaby assume he isn't coming back.

Ria seems really worried for Spikesby.

"Okay, I'll wait here. Don't worry, I'm sure you'll be fine."

The Ravians take their wagon and head off when night falls. Now its time for Spikesby to face the wizard...

>>33502

Now that you can travel at full speed it shouldn't take but a day to reach destination. Uh, assuming I paid attention...

>>33502

Head out to see the warlock under cover of darkness.

Spikesby begins his long journey across the desert. He can't see the tower, but he knows he's going the right way. It should only be a few hours until he gets to meet Xix Ryxix in person, and complete master Blacksoul's mission.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/23(Sun)19:17 No. 33513 ID: 1f5d37
File 125108022552.jpg - (60.67KB , 387x349 , 9.jpg )

((Hurr forgot my picture!))

This is it for this session. Thanks for playing. I think midday may have been a better time to play. It certainly seems like fewer people participated. Anyway, I had fun. Feedback is more than welcome, and I'll be back next Sunday.

>>33513

Update more often... wait feedback is not the same as demanding? Well, damn.

>>33518
Unfortunately, that isn't something I'm capable of. My life is such that only Sundays allow me the requisite time to run quests. I can dream of updating more often, but those sad dreams are as ashes in my mouth. ;_;

Well, I'm enjoying Bite Quest. Good to know that it can run about once every week, at least. ^^

You have a captivating story, cute characters, violence and awesome drawing, I'm sold.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)09:47 No. 35748 ID: 1f5d37
File 125156447424.jpg - (126.95KB , 537x522 , Title.jpg )

Spikesby trudges through the dunes, carrying his master's item through the Desert of Ruin.

He can see it outlined against the rising moon: The tower of Xix Ryxix. It shouldn't be more than a few hours away.

The silent stillness of the blowing sand is interrupted by a piercing scream from up ahead!

What should Spikesby do?

hooray!
Investigate, of course.

>>35748
Raptor-run towards it, and check out the situation.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)10:02 No. 35754 ID: 1f5d37
File 12515653637.jpg - (181.04KB , 840x540 , 1.jpg )

Spikesby quickly approaches the source of the noise. He is rather shocked by what he finds.

Two snikts seem to be escorting a familiar Ravian. He looks... wounded. One of the snikts has several bullet holes in his torso. Thick black blood drips onto the sand. They looks like they've been busy.

>>"Hello brother!
The first one says.
>>"I'm Heartsblood Stabtail, and this is Slasherly Stabtail. Have you come to see Father?"

The Ravian doesn't seem entirely aware of the situation yet. He moans in pain.

Oh man
Oh man they are not as cute as you

>>35754
"Yes, I'm bringing him an item. What happened with the Ravian?"

>>35754

Are these adult snikts compared to you or is appearance determined by purpose?

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)10:11 No. 35760 ID: 1f5d37
File 125156591571.jpg - (180.99KB , 840x540 , 2.jpg )

>>Yes. I'm bringing him an item. What happened to the Ravian?

>>Sounds cool.
Says Heartsblood
>>Oh, his caravan got too close to Father. We were hiding in the sand waiting for someone to come by. When they did, we jumped out and chopped them. This one didn't die, so we're bringing him to Father like we're supposed to. One of the other ones got away.

You realise that the Ravian can't understand a thing you're saying. It seems like he's focused on you a little, though.

>>Its... its. you! You've got to help me. You've got to help Gwen. Please. Please don't let them kill me!

He's fairly panicked.

These are Stabtails and Spikesby is a Biteface. They are bigger and stronger, but Spikesby is faster.

>>35760

Nothing you can do here. Attacking another wizards pets is a big no on the familiar manual. At least until we get rid of our geas. We can try to escort Gwen away if we happen on her after delivery.

"I see. Will you take the package to master or am I invited?"

>>35760
Try to make him understand that you're sorry. Nod a bit but there isn't much you can do.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)10:34 No. 35764 ID: 1f5d37
File 125156728296.jpg - (67.69KB , 611x278 , 4.jpg )

>>We don't know anything about packages. If you are supposed to deliver it to Father, then you'd better do it in person.
Says Heartsblood
>>We just slice up whoever gets to close to Father. I guess we can all go there together though, but this thing is pretty slow. It just kinda craws some.

The Ravian doesn't seem to understand your nod.
>>You.. You did this didn't you? You and that witch set us up from the beginning! Why didn't I listen to Gwen? They're dead, aren't they?! You went behind and cut their throats!

He starts to sob.

You can easily see where they came from, so it should be pretty easy to find the site of the attack.

>>35764
Right, see you.

Head in the direction of the tower, circle back around to the attack.
They should keep him alive until he sees Xix Ryxix, right?

>>35764

"Talkative. This looks like it will die before it reaches the tower. Lucky one."

Continue to the tower, nothing we can do here. Orrrrr is there. If you kill the healthy one in one shot you should be able to handle the wounded one. We can try that on return trip or now if everyone else wants to. Otherwise we ignore the quite likely already dead one.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)10:52 No. 35767 ID: 1f5d37
File 125156835690.jpg - (48.84KB , 501x419 , 5.jpg )

Spikesby indicates he's going forward, then circles around. What, exactly, is his plan at this point? He needs a really specific plan of action if he wants to fight these other Snikts.

He figures that the Ravian might make it to Xix Ryxix's tower, but he has no way of knowing for sure. He isn't exactly a doctor.

>>35767

Voting for tower. If you wanted to attack you should have stayed next to them. Burying in sand and surprising from there would rely on them passing right next to you. There would be no guarantees it was the healthy one you would take down first.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)11:14 No. 35770 ID: 1f5d37
File 125156964538.gif - (86.81KB , 700x700 , xix.gif )

Spikesby decides to try and do something about the situation later, after he's dropped off the item. He goes on through the desert.

After a while, he reaches an enormous pit with steep, sloping sides. The tower looms massively in the night. How will Spikesby get to it? There doesn't seem to be any easy acce...

The ground! Its rumbling! Wha.. What's going on?!

(Animooted)

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)11:15 No. 35772 ID: 1f5d37
File 125156974555.jpg - (231.65KB , 900x700 , Xix close.jpg )

The front of the creature descends until it faces Spikesby directly. It speaks.

>>"Ksss... Hello, Child. I am, hss.... the Wizard, Xix Ryxix. ksss.... What can I do for you?

Spikesby isn't sure how to respond. He's rather taken aback!

>>35772
I am here on behalf of the warlock Zorsuz Blacksoul, making a delivery.

(Waiting for a joke about 'Cough it up'.)

>>35772

FFFFFFFFFFFF- special delivery to Cthulhu, roll for sanity.

"Oh great wizard I bring an item for you from Zorsuz Blacksoul as I was commanded." *HORK HORK BLAAAARGH*

>>35772

"Here father, I brought you a gift from Blacksoul."

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)11:44 No. 35783 ID: 1f5d37
File 12515714711.jpg - (82.39KB , 450x350 , 6.jpg )

Spikesby politely indicates to "Father" that he is here in the service of Zorsuz Blacksoul.

Spikesby "Delivers" the Skullbox, and Ryxix takes it. He puts it into his mouth and swallows.

>>"A letter... kss... Blacksoul, you old scoundrel... hss..."

He looks down at Spikesby again.

>>"While you're here, you should do something for me. I have three things I need delivered. Pick the one you'd like to carry for me.

>>I have a ... kss.. cask for Moriga the Ice Queen

>>I have a book for the hsss... Lord of Marvels

>>and I have something... special for Lady Radia the Glorious. Kss...

He looks down at Spikesby expectantly.

>>35783

I say Radia the Glorious.

Which one is closes to home? We need to return to our master at some point.

Something special? Sounds interesting, let's go with that one.

>>35783

"I already have another delivery to Corfair but if you allow the detour I can take a new one." What's the closest to Corfair, pick that one.

>>35783
The book doesn't sound too hard.

I vote for the book, then let's try to go save that Sectoid.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)11:59 No. 35792 ID: 1f5d37
File 125157236894.jpg - (156.14KB , 900x700 , MAP.jpg )

Spikesby is having some trouble deciding, so he thinks about what he knows of local geography.

All of the people Ryxix mentioned are either Wizards or Sorceresses, but he doesn't know anything about them specifically.

Lord of Marvels is the closest, but its still several weeks away.

Moriga is the furthest, but the closest to Corfair.

Ryxix indicates that Spikesby is free to finish up his local business before he undetakes his new journey.

>>35792

Well after we're done at Corfair we can bring the special item to Radia then. I still vote her. The item sounds more interesting, and we get to see her open it.

>>35792

Moriga it is then. Are we going to save the Ravian who wasen't that nice to begin with and is likely to die in a day anyway? I'm not for it but if everybody else wants to we should ask Ryxix if it was okay to kill a couple stabtails because they're dicks. It might appreciate a biteface taking on stronger things, better than having a wizard shoggoth angry with us.

(Unless someone wants to change their vote, I have 2 for Radia, 1 for Moriga, 2 for Lord of Marvels). Also, go ahead and tell me the next course of action: Go back to the Ravian, go investigate the site of the attack, or just ignore all of it?

>>35797

Investigate the attack site.

I vote Radia.

>>35799

If we investigate we better bring the Ravian dead or alive unless we too want to eat bullets. Fine, let's do the crazy rescue plan.

>>35797
Voting Radia and checking out attack site/trying to help the Ravian if possible.

Also, try to find some way to communicate with him, so he knows we're not trying to hurt him.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)12:32 No. 35803 ID: 1f5d37
File 12515743734.jpg - (110.45KB , 822x687 , 7.jpg )

Spikesby swallows a thick metal tube. It's uncomfortable and kinda creeps him out.

When he asks if it is OK to kill other snikts, Ryxyx just says

>>"You are free... ksss... to do as you like... hsss... as long as you do exactly what I ksss.. say...

Spikesby heads toward the attack site.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)12:36 No. 35807 ID: 1f5d37
File 125157461416.jpg - (220.44KB , 840x540 , 8.jpg )

((He chose Radia. Ryxix seemed well pleased by this))

Spikesby cautiously approaches the attack site. He isn't too worried about being shot, but he doesn't think Gwyn is going to make it, seeing as how she is in two pieces.

He doesn't see the Gour, but there are tracks and blood going deeper into the desert, and they don't belong to the Stabtails.

What should he do?

((fff. I misunderstood one of the suggestions, and thought the consensus was for the attack site, not the surprise attack. Sorry. Anyway since Spikesby is already here, is there anything he should do?))

>>35807

The Ravian will die anyway, his girl is dead and not savable. The Gour is baked in the brain and would just try to kill us. Take rations and water bags if there are any. Let's try to save at least one life.

>>35810

Ack, having a bad conscious attack. Did the Ravian seem savable? Mayby try to get the gour and see if he can help with the attack, or heal him afterwards. Somebody tell me this is a bad idea.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)12:54 No. 35817 ID: 1f5d37
File 125157569553.jpg - (212.67KB , 840x540 , 9.jpg )

Spikesby gets a sachel with some stuff in it, hopefully food. He manages awkwardly to get it over his head and arm. He can't really manipulate things very well.

Judging by the tracks, the gour doesn't seem to be wounded, at least not seriously, but he probably won't last too long in the desert without supplies.

Spikesby is no doctor, once again. The ravian could apparently only crawl. He doesn't know whether or not he is still alive, but also guesses that Xix Ryxix isn't going to do anything particularly nice to him.

The dead snikt here definitely wasn't shot. There is a huge, gaping hole in his chest, like he exploded from the inside.

He's really torn and isn't at all sure what he should do.

>>35817

Let's go and assist the Gour. I guess we can only save one. Killing our brothers for just doing their job doesn't sound particularly pleasing.

>>35817

Get the gour, woo him with water and rations. Lets see if he's serious about sacrificing his life to do some good. Whats the worst that could happen? Besides exploding from inside out.

>>35820

This is a cool idea.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)13:18 No. 35829 ID: 1f5d37
File 125157713271.jpg - (110.93KB , 700x450 , 10.jpg )

Spikesby follows the gour's footprints. It takes him a while to track him down though - the gour had been traveling for a long time.

Apparently, he didn't escape unscathed though, that wound looks like it could be serious, and he's holding something in his... no. No way.

It looks like... the snikt's heart? He pulled the snikt's heart out?

The gour doesn't seem happy to see spikesby.

>>"Ksh. I told you. This is what monsters like you do. They kill. They bring pain. They destroy and lay waste. We would have been glad to avoid the monster that made you, but he moves, you see. Moves around. Has his "children" murder for him. I got this one though. He won't be murdering anyone anymore."

He begins to laugh.

>>35829
wakwak at him and gesture in the direction of the Ravian, try to get help attacking the stab tails.

>>35829

Yes, this fellow seems very stable. Very stable indeed. Drop some food and water for it. Scribble a strategic map with the Ravian, Ryxyx and snikts. Draw an arrow from your location to Ravians and cross out the snikts. Make a throat slash motion and point in turn to you and the gour. If it dosen't come along for the plan cross the Ravian and kick sand on map. Leave, get more food & water and go to Ophian.

>>35829

Draw a little ravian best you can. Wak a bunch of times, and draw some bigger snikt. Point to the snikt that has the bullet holes, then to the gour. Then motion for him to follow.

>>35829
>The gour doesn't seem happy to see spikesby.
But he's laughing!

Anyway. Kill him.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)13:51 No. 35839 ID: 1f5d37
File 125157908776.jpg - (200.40KB , 900x700 , 11.jpg )

((this is not really an expected course of action, so its taking me a minute to draw things. Please excuse))

Spikesby draws out the plan as best he is able and waks a lot. He gives the gour some food and water. The gour seems very surprised that Spikesby didn't immediately attack, and studies the drawings.

He smiles, then grins, then laughs uproariously!

>>"Wizards, fate, they are just words! Words! Fight against your destiny, you horrible creature! Your arms are meant to kill, not save! We will die together, gloriously violating fate! Our deaths, they will be a spectacular affront to the heavens!"

He continues to laugh, but you think he's down with the plan! Its go time!

>>35839

Alright, let's ride off into battle!

Wait
What about the female Ravian? We should look for her, or at least ask the gour about her.

>>35839

Let's use our speed. Run as fast as you can to the pair from behind and slash the one you can suprise. If you can kill it that's good, if not it will be weak from bleeding. Run back towards the Gour with the Snikts in tow and begin a hit & run routine. Hopefully he will catch up before we bite it.

>>35841

The female ravian is hella dead. Look in the background of the caravan.

>>35839
Haha, he's a little unhinged there, isn't he?

Stick with the plan~

>>35844
oh hey yeah
wow

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)14:28 No. 35856 ID: 1f5d37
File 125158132085.jpg - (207.83KB , 840x540 , 13.jpg )

Spikesby leaps, and the gour begins to use his Adept magic.

The snikts are taken by surprise and the fight is almost over before it begins!

Spikesby is stabbed viciously during the tussle, and his mouth fills with bitter black blood, but his foe is killed.

The other snickt unleashes a horrible squealing scream before its heart is torn out. The sounds disturb Spikesby greatly. He hears bones crack and meat tear as the organ is pulled through the living creature's back.

Everyone is hurt and exhausted, but this seems like an extremely unsafe place to stay. They could try to hole up in the wagon, or get back to the oasis.

The gour laughs the entire time. He picks up the Ravian, to carry him, but the whole time he just laughs. The poor ravian has lapsed into probably pleasant unconsciousness.

>>35856

Motion that you will carry the Ravian over a shoulder if the gour wants. Head back to the oasis. It's gonna be the best thing to do right now.

>>35856

Pass by the wagon and pick more supplies since there are more mouths to feed. Then continue to oasis since the wagon really isin't far enough.

>>35856
Good going Spikesby.
We should go somewhere safe where the wounds of the Ravian can be treated.
Did I miss something, or where did the snake chick go?

>>35856
Holy fuck this guy is awesome.
We better go back to the oasis, maybe we need to grab some supplies by the wagon first. We don't know how to save this guy anyway, and the Gour (doubtfully) might.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/08/29(Sat)14:44 No. 35863 ID: 1f5d37
File 12515822755.jpg - (175.69KB , 700x700 , 14.jpg )

The small party makes its way back to the wagon.

On the way, the gour talks.

"I gave my arm to Lord Ryxix, you know. I am his adept. I've used his own power to murder his minions. This, this is truly a great offense against the starts. Fate bears down on us like a tidal wave, ready to sweep us to oblivion. How long can we struggle against it before we finally die our pitiful, worthless deaths? My name is Heartsbane, by the way, and this is Llewin."

The ravian doesn't say anything, because he's unconsious.

They get to the wagon and pick up supplies, including a Ravian Assault Rifle, and then head back to the Oasis. Everyone is exhausted and wounded, and he can explain what happened to Ria later. Now, he just needs to sleep.

He's also got a lot to think about. So far, Spikesby, rather than being a monster, has rescued three people. He's saved their lives. They wouldn't be around without him. He... he doesn't really know how to feel about that.

((I certainly didn't intend that everyone survive, so good job on being clever!))

In the cold night, before the sun rises, a tower turns, and a wizard smiles.

I can answer some general questions if you guys have any, but I've been going for six hours now, so no more adventure for tonight.

Thanks a lot for playing! I had a lot of fun. As always, I'd love advice/criticism/whatever. Also, thanks to whoever drew that awesome, adorable fanart.

Is sunday or saturday better? Noon or night?

>>35866
What's Zorsuz like?

>>35866
Timing will be better for some people and worse for others no matter when it is, so just go with when you have time. So far it's looking really good.

I also notice a slight but perceptible improvement in art, and a rather drastic improvement in writing, so I imagine it's only going to get better.

>>35866

This was a very good time for me but I'm from europe so I can't speak for the majority? Anyways, if it was later or on other day than saturday/friday it would be very hard to participate if I was not on vacation.

Does Spikey know anything about Ophians, Ravians or other races besides their names?

>>35866
Hop on over to /questdis/ then, or in the IRC. Don't wanna fill up the thread with discussion when we have a whole separate board just for that. I'm not sure that there's a thread for this one yet, feel free to make one.

I made a thread here, and answered the plot/setting questions in it. >>1631

>>35870
Thanks! Yeah, the writing was pretty shaky at first. Hopefully I'll get *faster* at drawing too.

I'll probably keep with saturday.

>>35866
This time's fine for me as well but I just sit around on the internet all day anyway.

Chapter 4 Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)14:57 No. 38537 ID: 1980dc
File 125218783019.jpg - (369.22KB , 900x700 , Title.jpg )

Spikesby and his companions make it back to the oasis, wounded and exhausted.

Ria is overjoyed that Spikesby is safe, and finds some bandages in the supplies that were salvaged from the caravan.

Ria doesn't pause when she sees the serious wounds, but digs through the salvaged materials for anything she can use.

She doesn't really know first aid, but she's the only one who can really do anything about the wounds at all. Gauze and antiseptic is better than sand and nothing.

Heartsbane stands at the edge of the light, contemplating his new companions.

"So, snikt, what exactly happened with you and the wizard?"

Ria looks at Spikesby curiously.
(Keep in mind that Spikesby has an Understanding with Ria. She can translate for him.)

>>38537
Tell him you made the delivery from your master and were tasked with a new delivery to Lady Radia. And that you asked about killing Snikts and Ryxix didn't object.

>>38537

Item delivery. Got permission to deliver Ria to safety, then back to wizard business. Will take you to Corfair too if you want.

>>38537
Might be a little early. but maybe we should inquire if it's possible to get free will for Spikesby.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)15:33 No. 38562 ID: 1980dc
File 125218998116.jpg - (107.79KB , 500x500 , 1.jpg )

Ria informs Hearsbane about Spikesby's conversation. He seems to think something is particularly hilarious about this.

"You asked him if you could kill his children? No question about it, snikt, you're dead!

A wizard knows as soon as his bound servants die, but nothing else. You've just put a huge target on your back.

You need to get out of this desert as soon as you can. Corfair is in the opposite direction you want to go. I'd say head for Suri. You might make it.

Ryxix is exceptionally cruel. He won't kill you outright. He'll have something more.. devious in mind."

Ria asks Heartsbane about free will and magical creatures.

"Snikts don't have a soul. They do whatever their masters tell them without remorse or guilt. You Ophians started to get souls left and right before the thing happened with Kshaara." He laughs quietly to himself.

"It might be possible. You'd have to get a soul first. I'll look into it for you, if I get out of this desert alive."

Spikesby is feeling pretty tired, unless he has anything else to talk with Heartsbane about.

>>38562
Ryxix said we could do whatever we want, as long as we took care of his delivery.

...Even though he said "as long as you do exactly what I say"; it might be wise to leave that bit out until later, unless anyone has any objections.

>>38562

Kshaara? What's the closest safe civilization? Taking Ria to safety before they become targets themselves. Ryxyx will get us if it wants no matter what we do.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)16:04 No. 38586 ID: 1980dc
File 125219187824.jpg - (105.91KB , 500x500 , 2.jpg )

Ria tells Heartsbane that Ryxix said it was cool. He finds this particularly hilarious.

"Asking him that was a huge mistake. It doesn't matter what he told you, you still killed his children, and he knows you did it. Not just that, but he'll see that some of his prey got away. Anything he said is just him fucking with you. Like I said, Suri is the closest safe place. Its a huge Ophian city. You can find out about Kshaara in Suri, and Lord Ryxix can't do anything to you there. He's insidious though. I'd be careful."

Heartsbane pauses for a second.

"I'm surprised you don't know about Kshaara, Ria, being an Ophian and all."

Ria just shrugs. "I never paid attention in history class. I never paid intention in any of my classes, really."

((If there aren't any more questions, Spikesby will sleep for the night. Even if you do have a question, decide if you want to follow Heartsbane's advice and go to Suri, or if you want to try to go somewhere else.))

((Its going to be a while between new frames, I have to run to town))

Suri it is then.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)17:32 No. 38660 ID: 1980dc
File 125219712456.jpg - (240.40KB , 700x450 , 3.jpg )

Spikesby sleeps...

In his sleep, he hears Heartsbane's laugh, and remembers the horrid wet sound of tearing flesh.

In the morning, Heartsbane is gone. Ria loads Spikesby down with the supplies they scavenged and they head toward Suri.

Llewin is unconscious, so Ria has to carry him, but it looks like they have plenty of food and water.

If Spikesby wants to talk to Ria privately, he should do it now. If he's just ready to get to Suri, suggest he continue. Of course, there could be something else important that Spikesby needs to do.

>>38660
>>In his sleep, he hears Heartsbane's laugh, and remembers the horrid wet sound of tearing flesh

Don't tell me you..........

>>38661

He didn't wake up covered in blood, I'm pretty sure it was a dream.

>>38660

No tracks leading away? On to Suri then... except we don't know where the heck that is. Let's hope it's easily spottable.

>>38676

I'm pretty sure he knows where it is seeing as how he drew the map in >>35792

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)18:04 No. 38686 ID: 1980dc
File 12521990791.jpg - (386.25KB , 1440x900 , 4.jpg )

They begin traveling through the desert. After an hour or so, Llewin starts talking to Ria.

>>"I've got to warn you, Heartsbane is totally untrustworthy. I'm not gonna beat around the bush. I don't trust wizards, adepts, or magical creatures. I know that this snikt saved both of us at one time or another, and I'm surely grateful, but it sure doesn't change my opinion of magical creatures in general.

>>Heartsbane is an Adept of Xix Ryxix. Ryxix is the one that took his arm. I... was listening last night, and I don't trust him at all. I do think we're doing the right thing by going to Suri, though, I never want to travel through this desert again."

Ria isn't really sure how to respond.

>>38686

We will file that in the same file as him being a wee bit unstable. Unlikely he wants anything to do with us anymore unless he trades his life for us. Let's get them to Suri quickly so we don't have to worry no more.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)18:41 No. 38704 ID: 1980dc
File 125220129864.jpg - (134.93KB , 720x450 , 5.jpg )

After three days of travel the land levels out and greenery is visible ahead. Llewin hasn't been talking or anything for the past day or so, but Ria thinks he's alive.

Eventually, the gleaming walls of Suri are visible. Spikesby feels slightly uncomfortable as they approach.

The archway is open, and leads through a short tunnel into the city. Spikesby can't really see anything from here, though.

>>38704

Blood writing. Ask if Ria can read it for us. We're going in anyways because of Llewin so lead the way in and be on your guard. If you can jump high try scaling the wall instead.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)19:01 No. 38716 ID: 1980dc
File 125220251364.jpg - (138.25KB , 720x450 , 6.jpg )

Ria goes over to look at the wall.

It looks like blood, and its still wet. There are more of them all up and down the wall, evenly spaced.

Ria looks closely.

>>"It isn't writing. They look like some kind of designs or runes. I never payed any attention to stuff like that, so I have no idea what they mean."

Even if Spikesby left all the stuff behind, he really doesn't think he could clear the wall or get on top. He can jump fairly well, but not nearly that well.

>>38716

Okay, you're the guinea pig again. Tell Ria you're going in and if you die she should make for a different city. Leave backpack to her.

Ria is kind of dumb, huh? Well, I second the "Go in yourself, leave her out here with Lewin and the supplies" plan.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)19:20 No. 38748 ID: 01fabd
File 125220363530.jpg - (152.38KB , 900x700 , 7.jpg )

Spikesby steps through the gate. As he passes the threshold, a tingling sensation runs across his skin. He enters the city and feels ... lonely. Its almost like something he'd always carried with him is gone.

He doesn't have too much time to reflect, though. A huge tower dominates the skyline, probably Kshaara's tower, but... this can't be right.

The huge creature impaled with many spears must be Kshaara. There is a literal pile of dead Ophians, covered in blood all around her. Her own wounds ooze with fresh blood, but she seems very dead.

The city streets are empty, but this could possibly be because it is noon, and very hot.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)19:29 No. 38762 ID: 01fabd
File 125220418467.jpg - (144.01KB , 720x450 , 8.jpg )

Ria calls to Spikesby, asking if it's safe.

>>38761

>The huge creature impaled with many spears must be Kshaara. There is a literal pile of dead Ophians, covered in blood all around her. Her own wounds ooze with fresh blood, but she seems very dead.

investigate further I suppose. There's gotta be a clue as to what the hell happened here.

Tell Ria it's safe to come in. No immediate danger.

>>38762
Have Ria come in. She should not spend a second out of your sight in this place.

>>38748

If the horrible thing is still in our gullet it's either our magical protection or our connection to our master.

>>38762

It most definately isin't, stay where you are. Ksharra is dead and so is a lot of Ophians. Check all the buildings near you and continue on down.

Guys, I think the markings on the wall might affect Ophians badly.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)19:49 No. 38788 ID: 01fabd
File 12522053676.jpg - (168.48KB , 864x540 , 9.jpg )

Ria moves just inside the archway, and says she doesn't feel anything strange.

Spikesby looks around some. The streets are clean and the shops are well-kept.

He's making some noise outside the one he's looking at, and he hears someone inside shout.

>>We're closed at noon. Come back later.

>>38788

Well thats anticlimactic. Tell Ria to ask for a doctor.

>>38788
Maybe Ria will have better luck... Have her interact with the locals instead of you, they'er probably afraid.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)20:02 No. 38800 ID: 01fabd
File 125220615814.jpg - (249.91KB , 864x540 , 10.jpg )

Ria comes in and shouts for a medic. Eventually, someone comes out. He looks tired and worried.

>>"What happened to that Ravian? What's going on with that Snikt? What're you doing here? Why are you shouting? Who needs medical attention?!"

He's talking way too fast. Ria isn't sure what she should say.

>>38800

Ravian needs a medic, several blade wounds on him. Snikt is just escorting and will be going away as soon as it's sure I'm safe.

>>38800

Is that wizard dead? Did that happen recently?

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)20:37 No. 38830 ID: 01fabd
File 125220822078.jpg - (316.71KB , 950x594 , 11.jpg )

Ria relates the information. The green Ophian says he can take care of the Ravian, but while they are talking, another Ophian approaches.

She addresses Ria.

>>"I hope you aren't trying to hide magic. Best be sending that Snikt on its way, although you and the Ravian are free to stay."

Ria asks about the broken tower.

>>"I... don't know how you haven't heard about this, but I suppose anything could happen. Fifty years ago, we rose up against Kshaara's tyranny and slew her. Even though her body is dead, she continues to bleed, and this blood has magical properties. The sigils on the outer wall block the influence of all wizards, and the blood itself also keeps anything it is smeared on from rotting. The corpses of those who fought bravely so that all Ophians could be free still remain as they were when they fell against the tyrant."

>>"Although we haven't heard from any of the other wizards, Ryxix is constantly trying to harass us in any way he can, so we are naturally wary of his children."

This one isn't Ryxixseses's I don't think.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)20:46 No. 38839 ID: 01fabd
File 125220880315.jpg - (174.94KB , 400x682 , end.jpg )

Spikesby has a lot to think about, and he can do that thinking while his friends get rest and medical care. Suri is an interesting place, but the strange emptiness he feels haunts him. That something that was always there, that awareness in the back of his head that had been a part of him for so long, some part of him wants it back, although another part seems to flex for the first time in its absence.

((I know this session was boring and not a lot happened. I will try to make up for it next time.

Feel free to continue to make suggestions for things Spikesby and/or Ria should do in Suri, before Spikesby continues his journey. They will be addressed next time.))

DRESS UP FUN TIME BONUS CONTENT!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/05(Sat)20:49 No. 38840 ID: 01fabd
File 125220895132.jpg - (83.21KB , 400x682 , PaperDoll.jpg )

SPIKESBY IS IN THE BIG TOWN OF SURI, AND HE FEELS GREAT! HE WANTS TO GET A BITCHIN OUTFIT SO THAT HE LOOKS AS GOOD AS HE FEELS! THERE ARE CLOTHIERS EVERYWHERE, BUT HE NEEDS HELP PICKING OUT SOMETHING AWESOME!

GREEN!ifOCf11HXk 2009/09/05(Sat)20:58 No. 38844 ID: 64f8ae
File 125220949787.jpg - (40.37KB , 400x682 , spikesbytemplate.jpg )

>>38840

Suggestion 2009/09/05(Sat)21:05 No. 38848 ID: 1689ab
File 125220991390.jpg - (40.04KB , 400x682 , howdothesekeepgettinginhere.jpg )

Fabulous!

Suggestion 2009/09/05(Sat)21:10 No. 38852 ID: c80cec
File 125221019968.jpg - (35.21KB , 400x682 , 125220895132.jpg )

Wak wak wak wak!

Suggestion 2009/09/05(Sat)21:16 No. 38856 ID: 64f8ae
File 125221060319.jpg - (69.62KB , 400x682 , spikesby gimpsuit.jpg )

Oh wait, wrong quest.

Suggestion 2009/09/05(Sat)21:38 No. 38865 ID: 33bb8b
File 125221192312.jpg - (71.20KB , 400x725 , elegantspikesby.jpg )

That is all, gentlemen.

>>38856

I support this.

>>38966
>>38856

Third'd

>>38856
Fourth'd.

>>38856
>>38966
>>39230
>>39318
Oh Xom dammit.

>>38856
Fifth.

>>38856
Sixth for the incessant humor that will occur.

>>38852
... I actually rather like this one. It's cute!

>>39527
Me too.

Suggestion 2009/09/07(Mon)19:25 No. 39639 ID: 6292a8
File 125237671650.jpg - (147.10KB , 400x682 , Spikesby.jpg )

>>38844
Hurfendurf, Steve's Pokemanz

BONUS CONTENT!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/12(Sat)08:24 No. 42995 ID: 15f6d6
File 125276904660.gif - (406.24KB , 900x700 , BadIdea.gif )

Spikesby decides that clothes are silly.

<animooted>

>>42995

You silly! Those clothes are not for fighting! ;3

Suggestion 2009/09/13(Sun)09:21 No. 43820 ID: 15f6d6
File 12528588849.jpg - (197.17KB , 675x525 , title.jpg )

Spikesby Biteface is on a mission to bring an awkward object to Radia the Glorious. Currently, he's in the town of Suri while a Ravian he mets gets medical treatment.

Inside the building is dark and cool. The Ophian doctors treated Llewin's wounds, but said he lost a lot of blood and it would take some time to recover.

Ria is with him, making sure he is Ok. Another Ophian is also with them, watching warily.

She speaks: "Handle your business and be on your way, snikt. If there is anywhere you want to go in Suri, I'll accompany you so I can make sure you don't cause trouble."

What does Spikesby do?

>>43820
We should check out the wonders of civilization.
What's there to see in this city?
Is Spikesby to magical to get wasted or is it possible?
We should also find some scholars, or whatever they have around, to find out about the whole soul businesses. But some fun comes first.

Suggestion 2009/09/13(Sun)09:41 No. 43823 ID: 15f6d6
File 125286011270.jpg - (65.13KB , 680x297 , 1.jpg )

Spikesby can think of approximately three places he might want to go.

1) Kshaara's tower. It kinda creeps him out, but who knows?

2) A school where sages work. He can't really communicate though, so he doesn't know how useful it would be.

3) The Market. Spikesby has no money, though, and no need for goods of any sort.

Spikesby is pretty sure he can eat and drink, but he never has in his whole life.

>>43823
So tower then.
I doubt they want money for looking at the tower.

Suggestion 2009/09/13(Sun)09:52 No. 43828 ID: 15f6d6
File 125286076446.jpg - (61.38KB , 680x297 , 2.jpg )

The Ophian swipes Spikesby across the snout with her paintbrush!

She speaks. "There. Now I should be able to understand your squalking.

Kshaara's tower? Follow me. I will remind you again not to cause trouble."

>>43828
Yeah, follow her.
Maybe we should cause a little bit trouble, just to be rebellious.

Suggestion 2009/09/13(Sun)10:08 No. 43839 ID: 15f6d6
File 125286171863.jpg - (404.07KB , 1440x900 , 3.jpg )

Spikesby follows the Ophian through the city. The closer they get to Kshaara's tower, the more empty the city becomes. The hot, dusty streets are clear of all signs of life by the time they reach the tower's base.

"My name is Hreshka," says the Ophian, "I am an adept of Kshaara, from before the rebellion. My lady's body still bleeds from the wounds inflicted on her, and that blood leaks down the tower constantly. We collect it in urns and use it for various purposes.

Adepts can use the blood to perform various magical feats, such as allowing me to understand you and warding away other Wizard's spells and powers.

Any further questions?"

Spikesby is glad he can't see the enormous wizard from this angle, impaled on a multitude of spears and surrounded by a sea of corpses.

>>43839
So apparently she has lots of knowledge about magic and understands us.
We should ask her about becoming free willed and getting a soul.
Should be save right? They don't really like magicians that much.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/13(Sun)10:32 No. 43853 ID: 15f6d6
File 125286315017.jpg - (112.99KB , 680x297 , 4.jpg )

Hreshka addresses Spikesby's queries.

"A soul isn't something you 'get,' Snikt. It is something you cultivate inside yourself. We Ophians were created by my Lady to produce art, philosophy and poetry, to entertain and engage our Lady. These pursuits lead many of us to begin acquiring souls. The lady was unaware or unconcerned, I'm not sure which. Because I was an Adept, I fought on the side of My Lady when the people rebelled. I have given up my compassion for power, however, so when my Lady fell, my loyalty fell also.

You were created by my Lady's close companion, Lord Ryxix. He made you to fight and kill, to make it difficult for you to cultivate a soul. I'm sure it is possible.

Your 'free will,' however, is a separate matter. Because you are magical and tied to a wizard, you cannot disobey them. Other than their orders, however, you are as free as anyone else.

Any further questions?"

>>43853
Can we use our fighting ability to gain a soul.
Fighting for good things I mean. Like we did when we helped those people against the other snikts.

>>43856
no, we don't need to fight for -good-

we just need to turn our fighting into an art. a technique. a form. with mastery and beauty come souls, so say the snakes.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/13(Sun)10:51 No. 43859 ID: 15f6d6
File 125286430224.jpg - (112.30KB , 680x297 , 5.jpg )

Hreska continues:

"As you begin to form intentions and reasoning outside of your master's orders, you will begin to form a soul. Nothing can coalesce unless you act on those intentions and that reasoning.

You have begun to do so now. Saving people because you see them hurt, because you fear for them or worry over them, is a first step. Alternately, killing out of hate or jealousy would be just as effective. They must be consistent, though.

These thoughts and ideas, as long as they are consistent with one another, are the raw materials that will make up a soul, but only action can gather them together, coalesce them into something real."

>>43859
We should go to the market and think about what we heard.
"good" seems like the more logical choice for Spikesby though, considering we already started doing good things.

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/13(Sun)11:27 No. 43876 ID: 15f6d6
File 125286644140.jpg - (205.44KB , 720x450 , 6.jpg )

Hreska brings Spikesby to the market.

Spikesby doesn't have any money, so he isn't too sure what he's supposed to do here.

The Ophians in the stand address Hreska.

"My lady! Please, what can we help you with? Silks, jewelry?"

>>43876

I think we should just leave. Maybe go and see the tower.

>>43876
Skills? They sell skills here? Are those like services, or something else entirely?

Also, seconding getting a good soul. Fight for those who cannot protect themselves. Spikesby Biteface the noble!

>>43882

Silks? Like, as in cloth from the behind of a silkworm?

AND BY LEAVE I MEAN THE CITY. THANK FOR TIME SAY GOODBYE

Spikesby!!Z0Mwx3ZJZj 2009/09/13(Sun)11:47 No. 43891 ID: 15f6d6
File 12528676659.jpg - (247.80KB , 864x540 , 7.jpg )

>>"Wak wak wak!"
Spikesby says some stuff.

One of the Ophians replies:

>>"What's that, little guy? Did somebody fall down the well?"

Hreska doesn't seem amused.

>>"He just wanted to see. We're going now."

Spikesby may as well go back to the hospital, unless you have some clever plan. What does he want to do about Ria anyway? Is she staying here with Llewin, or coming with him to Radia's tower?

>>43891
Let her choose.

>>43891
It would be safer for Ria to stay here, but we could use someone to translate for us.
Can Hreska improve her spell, this way we could normally talk to others.
We could also try to find out if someone got a "mission" for us, going straight to the magician to deliver our package seems like a bad idea.

>>43896

I say let her choose. Let's just head and drop this package off. We can head back home after that.