Varnavictus 2011/12/07(Wed)20:04 No. 370537 ID: a9ba96
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"Those Beyond, Those Beyond, I grant my mind unto you, so you may speak and unto me your many tongues be heard.
Those Beyond, Those Beyond, I grant my mind unto you, so you may speak and unto me your many tongues be heard.
Those Beyond, Those Beyond, I grant my mind unto you, so you may speak and unto me your many tongues be heard."

Varnavictus 2011/12/07(Wed)20:05 No. 370539 ID: a9ba96
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>"Hey, Varn, I have the stuff you asked for! How goes the summoning?"
"Neena, I'm in the middle of a very delicate ritual. Leave the ingredients at the door. I only have a short timeframe to attract the attention of Those Beyond - should I fail here, we'll have to start again from square one."
>"Looks like you're making progress, I don't remember it glowing like that before."
"Glowing? We're not far enough along for it to be -- Oh! OH! Those Beyond, Those Beyond, I grant my mind unto you, so you may speak and unto me your many tongues be heard! Those Beyond, Those Beyond, I grant my mind unto you, so you may speak and unto me your many tongues be heard!

Ehh, what's up, Doc?

>>370539
For better or worse, you have our attention.

Who's that, your wife?

the glowing means you connected, dude, you can stop. your lovely assistant showing up actually helped a little.

FOOL, YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT EVIL YOU HAVE UNLEASHED, AND FOREVER NOW MUST BE FORCED TO DEAL WITH... aww fuck it I can't keep this act up. What's goin' on, four-eyes and one-eye?

Well that didn't turn out right at all

Hold on a sec folks, lemme just fix this

Varnavictus 2011/12/08(Thu)14:10 No. 370698 ID: a9ba96
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By the Gods, I did it! I finally did it! Forty years and I'm the one who finally summons Those Beyond!

I am Varnavictus, apprentice of Archmage Harkven, and our cyclopean assistant here is Neena. Right now your presence is within my personal study on floor fifty-three of the Spire of Eternity, where the greatest mages in this realm reside.

I have been working... No, we, many of us, have been working for many years to call upon your powers, Those Beyond. We believe you hold the key to unlocking long lost knowledge that will aid our Guild immensely in coming days!

What lost knowledge do you have in mind? We likely don't have it with us at the moment, though we do know some things, like this amusing mind trick involving a fake hand and a box. We also know a fairly large amount about mechanical weaponry, but it is generally against Outsider etiquette to divulge too much about those.

gonna need to see an example of this lost knowledge, before we can tell you much. how this works.

Varnavictus 2011/12/08(Thu)16:40 No. 370734 ID: a9ba96
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Hmm... No, it is unlikely that you have the information I seek right now. At least, this part of you does not. But the whole, the full entity that is Those Beyond, does.

Eons ago, there lived a man named Samon the Barbarian. In the years prior to the Grand Crisis of Ution, or the "Drow-Elf War," as it's more commonly called, Samon made a name for himself going on a myriad of adventures, and upon those adventures he learned secrets that are now long since lost to this realm. We have reason to believe that Samon stumbled upon some very important knowledge in the years before he fell the Drow, and we believe that we have a way of recovering this knowledge.

While we don't know what Samon stumbled upon during these adventures, we do know that he called upon part of you, Those Beyond, to aid him. You are part of the whole, so somewhere deep within you lies the information that I seek, even if it is as but a faint memory. I have momentarily called you away from whoever you currently occupy, be it through an arcane artifact built to contain you or a man foolish enough to grant you access to their mind, in hopes of extracting this information from Those Beyond.

Without the exact part of Those Beyond used by Samon, the process is tricky. Through your presence and an object carried by Samon during each of these adventures, I believe I can tap into your buried memory of the knowledge and perform a ritual that will artificially re-create the events where this knowledge was gained. The ritual will rebuild the knowledge by physically casting Neena into the part of your presence where the memories of these events rest, and as you recall them you will guide her as she relives the event beside Samon. Should all go well, you will regain your knowledge.

Then, you will bring it to me.

Varnavictus 2011/12/08(Thu)16:41 No. 370735 ID: a9ba96
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>"Can I touch it?"
"Wh-- What? Are you mad? I've trained since birth to be able to hear Those Beyond without an artifact but even with a mind strong enough to hear It's many tongues touching the summoning orb would risk exposing me to its entire body! I've explained this before, Neena!"
>"Yeah, I know, but you've been talking about this thing ever since you brought me here, and now that it's here you're just... Sitting there, thinking back and forth with it. I want to hear them too."
"In due time! Take all the ingredients that you've brought, and assemble them as I've shown you. We need to move this part of Those Beyond to something so that you may hear them."
>"Alright! Alright! Give me a second, kay?"

Varnavictus 2011/12/08(Thu)16:44 No. 370737 ID: a9ba96
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Now, where was I? Oh!

If I cast Neena into your collective cognizance unprotected it's likely that she'll be driven mad instantaneously. A part of you must be properly bound to an object first, and you will speak to her through that. Now, typically, those who worshipped you in the old days would connect bits of you to ancient gemstones and crystals and other artifacts from long ago, and wear it as a necklace.

The thing is, It's very unlikely that I will be able to transition any equipment beyond a potion or a few arrows for Neena to use into your memories besides the object you will be communicating with her through. A necklace is classy, but Samon's adventures were always very dangerous...

I'll cut the the chase. If I were to say that you could be a Sword, a Shield, or a Bow, which would you pick?

that sounds insanely dangerous for Neena. we could just walk you through an industrial revolution if you'd prefer. magic is nice, but its rarely mass producible on a large scale, and i'm willing to bet the locals of your world would be better at dealing with powerful magic than with an army using semiautomatic riffles.

>>370737
I want to say a Sword. Because it just fits.

Because penis hurhurhur

i'd say sword.
wait, what year is this? has Erick Samwell been be traveling for a time?

I like swords. That's a personal weapon.

Also some of us may 'remember' more than others. Such as the fact that Neena may have had a part to play in the death of one or more members of your circle of mages. Food for thought~

A shield would probably be the best form. Nice swords are a lot easier to come by than magic shields. And if she knows any magic, a shield is definitely the best, as personal protection is where most mages are weakest.

So... how are you keeping the addition of a person from changing the scenario to the point where different things are discovered or the particular knowledge is not found at all?

By the way, the bit about the necklaces reminds me: how prepared are you for an event like... say... an undead invasion of one of the nearby kingdoms?

Sword sounds good to this guy.

Varnavictus 2011/12/08(Thu)21:18 No. 370830 ID: a9ba96
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Almost unanimously in favor for the sword it would seem. That works for me.

To address any concerns about Neena's safety here, she has a very long history of adventuring in the Outlands, and we have gone to great lengths to train her for this task. You need not worry about her presence having a negative effect on the memory, either - the addition of a new person will obviously lead to a memory that is not entirely accurate, but you should still have a good deal of freedom in how you handle things as long as you stick to the specific goal of the event. As long as you make sure that whatever Samon set out to do in the memory is accomplished, the knowledge should still be attainable.

And I assure you, we have reason to believe that this knowledge is more than some ancient spells. This knowledge may have far more potential than any old spell could ever have, and certainly far more potential than the factories, trains, and gunpowder that the Dwarves and the people of Egias seem so fascinated with over the past few decades.

To answer your other questions, it has been over a year since the Prince of Farway set off into the Outlands, but if I recall the story is that he angered a tribe of goblins and was hung from a tree. As for Neena's past mistakes, and armies of the undead...

Varnavictus 2011/12/08(Thu)21:19 No. 370831 ID: a9ba96
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Well, the former I'm aware of, but there are much more important matters right now. If you are interested in that story, feel free to ask her once we get started. Anshould latter... should be much less of a threat if all goes well here today. At least, that's what the Archmages say. I've been told small details about it, but only as much as they believe I need to know - eyeball pendants, ancient legions, a warlord named Warpath... But I have also been told the Guild of Mages is, as always, one step ahead. They wouldn't be where they were today if that wasn't the case. Even if we fail here, they have a plan, so we have little reason to worry.

I'm... curious as to where you learned of the last two, but for now that can wait.

When Samon grew old in age, he had a scholar help record his memoirs. There is a curious passage which states that Samon had not only "killed beasts that the gods had likely never intended mortal man to kill", but had "learned secrets that man wasn't likely meant to know." He went on to say that his experiences at Deadtooth's Den, the Deep Well, and the Murderpits tought him information that he would later use to help him defeat the Drow, but this information he also never shared, out of fear that it would fall into the wrong hands.

Varnavictus 2011/12/08(Thu)21:20 No. 370832 ID: a9ba96
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To help jog your memory of each event, the Guild has gone to great lengths to recover these trinkets, each bearing a connection to one of these three important moments in Samon's life.

The Draconic Eye is a large pendant, consisting of a large diamond carved to resemble the eye of a dragon, frames by several other gems and rubies. Samon plucked this from the treasure room of the Dragon Dygoragaiús, also known as "Dreadtooth." Long ago, Dygoragaiús and his cult controlled the Outlands and tormented its people, until Samon and a group of Paladins raided his lair and killed him in a grand battle. Your goal here would be to travel through Dreadtooth Den and aid Samon in slaying Dreadtooth.

The Heart of Torment used to be the phylactery of the mad lich known only as Torment, who brought havoc to the Elven nation of Thernt long ago. When Samon and a group of warriors from Thernt traveled into The Deep Well, the lair of Torment, he recovered the Heart of Torment from deep with its bowels and destroyed its gemstone, allowing him to permanently kill the Lich in the battle that followed. Your goal here would be to find the Heart of Torment within the Deep Well, destroy its stone, and slay Torment the lich.

Doggo's Tooth is a necklace made from the tooth of Doggo, champion of the Murderpits. Samon was captured and shipped to Turgeth during the war sparked by the arrival of the Orcs in Ution, where he was sentenced to fight in the Murderpits. As the story goes, Samon eventually defeated the Murderpits' greatest fighter Doggo, and then proceeded to provoke an uprising amongst the other captive fighters, destroy the arena, and sail back to Ution on stolen boats. Your goal here would be to survive in the Murderpits until Samon frees the prisoners, and escape alongside him.

I'll leave the decision up to you. Which tale do you wish to start with; Samon in Dreadtooth's Den, Samon in the Deep Well, or Samon in the Murderpits?

>>370832
Holy shit you talk a lot.

LET'S FUCK UP A LICH

the deep well. feel we owe killing a lich.

>>370834
What do you mean we o-... oh wait, yeah... >_> overgrown kobold girl. Not like she could have taken it anyhow.

Okay, Lich it is then, we gotta bone to pick.

While I enjoy working with Paladins, I think of most benefit to us would be if we went on the 'memory' relating to Turgeth, as that is the homeland of the orcs and where Warpath has set up his base of operations since the end of the Giant Wars, or Fall of the Giants, or whatever it's called. So yeah, Doggo's Tooth would be my choice, for Samon and the Murderpits (now in local bookstores in YOUR area!)

Varnavictus 2011/12/10(Sat)15:01 No. 371157 ID: a9ba96
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Mmmm... it looks like we'll be staring with Samon in the Deep Well. Don't worry though, we'll get around to all three over time and there is important knowledge to be found in each one.

But first...

"Si majak sia ricin ekess relgr-
Nomenes Putole
eckess nomeno cayosin!"

Varnavictus 2011/12/10(Sat)15:01 No. 371158 ID: a9ba96
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"Haaaaaah!"

Varnavictus 2011/12/10(Sat)15:07 No. 371164 ID: a9ba96
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"Ha ha... (Huff)... I... It is done.... (Huff)"

Enchantments are very delicate rituals - very physically taxing, very tiring, leaves the Mage feeling exhausted and drained, and even then most ore only temporary. To create a permanent enchantment, a Mage must effectively... give up part of himself in the process. One who tries it too often or with insufficiently trained risks giving up himself entirely, and going mad.

>"Varn? Are you alright?"
"Have you gotten everything in place?"
>"Yeah, but are you-"
"Neena... I need you to take this sword... And think very, very hard at it."

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)15:08 No. 371165 ID: a9ba96
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Um...

Testing... testing...

I... hello? Are you there?

>>371165
[total silence]

>>371165

[Crickets]

hello

>>371165
*taps mike*

>>371165
Hallo Hallo

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)15:27 No. 371172 ID: a9ba96
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>>371166
>>371167

"Hey... I don't think it's working."
>"One moment, it may require a bit of time to establish its initial link."

Alright then. Uh... Hello?

Helloooo-

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)15:31 No. 371173 ID: a9ba96
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>>371168
>>371169
>>371171

WHOAH!

Alright, so uh, my name's Neena! The guild needs to fix your memories so they can save the world, and I'm the one they picked to help you do it!

So uh, Hi! How's it going?

HEY ONE-EYE THE MAGE IS TIRED AND DRAINED, MAYBE YOU CAN KILL HIM LIKE THAT OTHER MAGE YOU AND MARK KILLED.

WE KNOW ALL YOUR SECRETS.

>>371173
We are a sword. Polish us. Rub our length.

>>371173

We're also a little crazy. But we can do some world-saving, sure.

Although sometimes it's not really clear the difference between that and destroying the world.

And the first bit of knowledge you get is that you shouldn't listen to everything magical voices tell you.

>>371173
You hear us now, for better or ill.

>>371178
Yes, please do.

>>371174
There was no murder. I do not know what you are talking about.
Not funny.

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)17:32 No. 371197 ID: a9ba96
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>HEY ONE-EYE THE MAGE IS TIRED AND DRAINED, MAYBE YOU CAN KILL HIM LIKE THAT OTHER MAGE YOU AND MARK KILLED.

>WE KNOW ALL YOUR SECRETS.
Whaaa? How do- but I didn't--!

"Varn! I think this thing like, knows things about me and I don't know why!"

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)17:34 No. 371199 ID: a9ba96
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>"I found it curious as well, but Those Beyond is a mysterious force. It holdsntousands of years of knowledge within it, seen through the eyes of those who had called upon it in the old days and those who have used the artifacts they've crated since. I'm sure they'll tell you where they learned of you if you ask, but in the meantime, please focus on the knowledge it gained while traveling with Samon."
"Okay, okay, but... You've explained all of this stuff to me about sending me inside Those Beyond and helping it like, relive these adventures they had with Samon, but I still don't understand what I'm supposed to be looking for
>"That I'm unclear on. All I know is that for this first memory, the knowledge will come after you kill a Lich."

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)17:40 No. 371204 ID: a9ba96
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"Kill a what!?"
>"Don't worry! Since Samon killed this Lich when he originally fought him, he should be able to do it again when Those Beyond relives the fight. Samon can handle the Lich, all you have to do is make it through the Lich's lair safely."
"That still seems really dangerous! I mean, I knew I would be fighting stuff, but Liches are really really dangerous!"
>"Those Beyond will guide you. You'll have to trust in the voices to keep you safe."

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)17:41 No. 371205 ID: a9ba96
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>We are a sword. Polish us.

>Rub our length.

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)17:41 No. 371206 ID: a9ba96
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"I don't think I wanna do this anymore!"

I'm just glad none of us suggested you take up sword swallowing as a hobby.

ahahah, MOST of us are okay. some just get way way bored. as long as you keep your wits about you, you will be fine. also most jokers just act like that when nothing important is happening. when it is time to fight, they will get serious.

Well if this is already bothering you, I shouldn't mention what part of us you're holding RIGHT NOW~

Don't stop.

Sorry, that was extremely rude of us (no matter how funny the look on your face was...)

So sorry about that. Some of the voices are perverted... Not all of us are though.
And honestly they are really only saying that stuff in order to mess with your head.

oh for gods sake we're a buncha voices crammed into a WHATEVER you think we won't perv out every now and again? Seriously, you have any idea what it's like to only be able to live vicariously through other people, who, by the way, don't even thank us properly by letting us watch? A good half of us have never SEEN a naked woman!

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)22:56 No. 371318 ID: a9ba96
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Well... Okay then. If you're just joking around, fine.... just promise not to do that kinda stuff when I'm actually in danger, kay?

>"If Those Beyond is speaking to you and you've put everything in place, I'm afraid that it's too late to back down."
"Huh?"
>"The ritual is too far along to stop now that the voices have spoken to you."
"Well is there anything else I should know before I go?"
>"You will be returned here when Those Beyond recognizes the memory as completed. While Those Beyond is reconstructing its memory, it will alter events to the best of its abilities to accommodate your presence while remaining true to the events that happened. For example, the people present within the memory will notice you and interact with you based on how Those Beyond remembered them. However, the basis of this memory is an adventure of Samon's, so if Samon were to fall before the objective were complete, I'm not sure if Those Beyond would be able to complete the memory - nor am I sure what would happen to you as a result."
"Well, Samon did just fine the first time around, right?"
>"True, but I figured it was important to warn you either way. Your presence could greatly alter the way this memory plays out. Just make sure the main objective is completed."
"Got it!"
>Also, don't die. I don't know what would happen if you died during this, so it's best avoided altogether."

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)22:58 No. 371319 ID: a9ba96
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"Wh-"
The room is engulfed in a bright light, instantly consuming Neena

>"Good luck."

Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)22:59 No. 371320 ID: a9ba96
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...

MEMORY ONE: SAMON IN THE DEEP WELL Neena 2011/12/10(Sat)23:01 No. 371321 ID: a9ba96
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Neena awakens in some bushes, deep within a forest.

Ugh... that felt, I dunno, weird. Really weird. I guess I'm inside your mind... minds, now? I know Varn explained all of this, but it's still really surreal.

I think I hear something...

>"And you say that this be the well from whence the creatures spawn?"
>"There is do doubt. I watched last night as the skeletal fiends emerged from these very waters. They say that you vanquish evil wherever you roam. They say you are capable of aiding us in clearing the evils within this murky well, Samon."
>"Aye, Verily."

By the Gods, It's really him.

I'm... not sure what to do here. Am I just supposed to walk up to them? What would I even say? "Oh hi, I'm just a friendly cyclops who was passing through the neighborhood and I couldn't help notice that you were about to clear some unspeakable evils out of this well. Could you use some extra help?"

>>371321
Nope. Just step out of the bushes, cross your arms, and glare at them. Don't flinch, or move, or say anything. Just stare them down from a distance.
Eventually, the awkwardness will cause them to ask what the hell is up, at which point you improvise.

When they ask why your are there, you can say you were sent by the wizard Varnavictus to help them destroy the local undead.

Heyyy... Samon originally had an instance of us in an item. We should see if we can access the dream-version of his Beyond item.
[Attempt to transfer to dream-Samon's Beyond item]
If we can access the dream version of us (or at least get them to work with us) we can avoid mentioning a wizard their mage might have questions about and just say that you are here on behalf of Those Beyond.

>>371321
If we're assisting them, then our memory-copy will vouch for you. Say that you are reinforcements sent by Those Beyond. Or... actually I have no idea what we called ourselves back then. You could just say you were sent by allies of his talking item whatever it is.

>>371341

Legion, 'Gion, "Fuckball", "Asshole voices", Those Beyond, "You Guys", Spirits, Guardians... we've got many names.

Anyway this is our memory of events, we should be able to shift things a little by mis-remembering. Like, I remember that Clyde there (with the bow) thought you might show up to help today. He'll recognize you as a nodding acquaintance who is good at fighting in enclosed spaces (caverns, urban fighting, and so on against goblins).

"hello friends, i heard you were going to destroy the undead that plagued these lands and i came to help. one more weapon is always helpful."

>>371321
Emerge from bushes, say you have heard a great evil blights this place, then ask if you can join them on their righteous purging.
Don't forget to mention your GLOWY MAGIC SWORD.

Just walk out there and question THEIR intentions rather then letting them questions yours... "Ho there, what are you four doing here? You should be careful near that well, evil undead crawl out of it."

If they say they are going to cleanse it, "A noble goal, I shall aid you in this endeavor then".

If they ask why you didn't do something before, "I am just one woman, I cannot single handedly defeat an army of undead and whomever is creating them.

Neena 2011/12/11(Sun)16:34 No. 371474 ID: 3bad51
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The reconstruction of this memory is being done by Those Beyond on a subconscious level - attempts to directly alter with the memory seem to be unsuccessful for now... Attempts to transfer to or communicate with the part of Those Beyond presumably working with Samon yields no result either.

Hmm... You know, I guess this all comes down to playing the role well. I used to be part of a Drow-Elf war reenactment group, so I guess the same general rules apply. Just... With a bit more improvisation... and better costumes.

Alright guys, wish me luck.

Neena takes a deep breath and emerges from the bush. Samon and the elven warriors turn their heads and gaze at her.

"Ho there! What be your business by this well? Do you not know that evil creatures come from within?"

Heh, "what be your business." Old-timey talk is cool.

The warrior with the ax responds
>"We've come to cleanse this well of the very evils you speak of. What be your business?"
"The same as yours, noble elf."
>"I know no cyclopean from my town, nor the towns around it. I know no cyclopean noble enough to stray from the forest to aid in such a cause. Who sends thee?
"Those Beyond."
Samon suddenly smiles widely.
>"Fret not, Arkidus, she is an ally. Of this I am sure. My One-Eyed sister of Those Beyond, I am Samon the Barbarian, warrior of the West, who has come to aid these elves in ridding their nation of a most vile threat. Three elves from a town nearby have called upon me to cleanse the evils which dwell in these waters - they are Arkidus of the Axe, Barthellon Swiftarrow, and Thissarin the Mage of Frost. Shall you join us in our most noble venture?"
"Aye, this I shall!"

Neena 2011/12/11(Sun)16:35 No. 371475 ID: 3bad51
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I used to know this guy named Mark, and he talked about Samon all the time. With all the stories he would tell I figured most of them were just exaggerations, but wow, this guy really does seem to live up to all of it.

>"If you wish to aid us, we must make haste! Come forth, for the call of adventure awaits!"

With a shout, Samon leaps into the well. The trio of elves follows close behind.

Well... wish me luck.

Neena runs after them and enters the well...

Neena 2011/12/11(Sun)16:36 No. 371476 ID: 3bad51
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...emerging in an unfamiliar place.

Whoa...

Barthellon Swiftarrow grumbles
>"Whoever's behind this... For some reason I get the feeling that he thinks rather highly of himself."

don't see any clues yet, just look around for now like you are looking for clues.

Check the ceiling.

>>371476
I think we should follow Samon's lead for the most part. If we can stay within the normal events of the memory we shouldn't have any problems completing it. Diversion is the enemy. That said, if we can see something obvious to assist with we should. Stack the odds in favor of survival.

Does the water look deep? Fast current? Monsters in it?

Neena 2011/12/11(Sun)18:35 No. 371498 ID: a9ba96
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>Check the ceiling
We're outdoors, somewhere deep in a forest. Presumably a forest far away from the one I woke up in.

>Look for clues.
Neena and the others move across the water towards the waterfall, and approach the door beneath the large statue.

Hmm... There's a door here, but I don't see any sort of handle.

As they grow close, a skull appears above the door's frame and shouts loudly.
>YOU SHALL NOT FACE WHAT LIES AHEAD. I OPEN ONLY FOR THE DEAD.

Ghastly cackling fills the air as skeletal warriors begin to rise from the waters. The group turns around, raising their weapons. Samon looks over to Neena and the Elf with the axe and yells to them.
>"Arkidus! Cyclops! Work on getting the door open! I'll help the others hold off these shambling fiends! To arms!"

Shit shit shit shit shit what do I do what do I do

Neena pushes against the door, but the skull atop its frame simply laughs and yells once more;
>"YOU SHALL NOT FACE WHAT LIES AHEAD. I OPEN ONLY FOR THE DEAD.

stab us into the skull and let go for a bit, we may be able to control it.

"Then you'll let us is, for what other than dead is one that encounters a linch"

Maybe try knocking using a bone from a re-killed skeleton?
Though first you should see whether these skeletons are endless or not. If there are a finite number it it likely best to finish them off now in case something is waiting to attack from inside the door.

>>371500
good chance it is magical and literally detect life energy

>>371498
Obvious solution is to get a skeleton to come close enough to make the door open. By force, if necessary.

Technically you ought to be able to accomplish everything you need to do by doing nothing at all, since without you there Samon successfully completed this dungeon, and thus logically as long as you don't hinder him it should work out. Still... Go with other people's suggestions.

Cut off the arm of one of the dead. Use its arm to open the door.

>>371566
That is a very good point. However if you do nothing at all they will question your motive and loyalty.

unless of course, we actually time travels, and we were always here, just wasn't recorded.

Neena 2011/12/11(Sun)23:08 No. 371613 ID: a9ba96
File 132367371844.jpg - (329.23KB , 1024x768 , e709f936.jpg )

>Technically you ought to be able to accomplish everything you need to do by doing nothing at all
Technically, yeah. But when you're dungeon crawling, people get really suspicious when someone just stands around and does nothing. I'm gonna try not getting in Samon's way here, but it's in our best interest that we do what we're told here. I can get in-character really well, but I'm not sure if it would be well enough if these guys get the wrong idea and start thinking I'm gonna backstab them and run off with the loot first chance I get.
>Unless we time traveled.
I don't think that's possible. I mean, if it were, the Guild would be the first people to know how to do it... But I hope they would tell me before sending me to rewrite the past.
>You need an arm of one of the skeletons
Yeah, that sounds right.

"Hey, Arkidus, I think we need one of the undead's arms for this door to open."
>"Aye, leave that to me! Thissarin, freeze the waters where those skeletons stand!"

The ice Mage freezes several skeletons in place, and Arkidus leaps upon the frozen waters. One of the immobilized skeletons reaches out for him, and he grabs onto it's arm. Akridus gives a mighty tug...

Neena 2011/12/11(Sun)23:09 No. 371614 ID: a9ba96
File 132367376107.jpg - (149.70KB , 1024x768 , 34ded0bf.jpg )

...And slips on the ice as the skeleton's arm becomes detached. As he stumbles, the arm flies from his hand...

Neena 2011/12/11(Sun)23:10 No. 371615 ID: a9ba96
File 132367385932.jpg - (334.67KB , 1024x768 , 3aa3ca8a.jpg )

And right through the door, which swings open.
Arkidus lands with a slash in the waters.

Thissarin cries out to the group
>"Arkidus is dazed, but not grievously harmed. I fear that these skeletons continue to spawn!!"
Samon yells back in response
>"The doors are open! Onwards!"

Neena 2011/12/11(Sun)23:11 No. 371616 ID: a9ba96
File 132367391404.jpg - (174.21KB , 1024x768 , 9e41af3b.jpg )

Neena rushes down the stairs and emerges in a small underground room, its walls lined with stone.

By the gods... those heads on the table don't look that old. Another group must have come through here before us.

Samon looks at Neena from the doorway
>"Cyclops! They are coming too quickly - I fear that we be at risk of being overwhelmed! The others said they would try to hold off the skeletons for a bit and buy us some more time, but I fear they don't stand a chance against such numbers. I must assist the elves, and I need you to get these doors open while I do so. Understand?"
"Uh..."
>"Don't worry! Those Beyond will no doubt aid you."

...Shit, something tells me that that's not what originally happened here. Okay, I guess I just have to...

Neena 2011/12/11(Sun)23:13 No. 371619 ID: a9ba96
File 132367402326.jpg - (167.65KB , 1024x768 , cda76dbc.jpg )

>"HARK! AVAST! MORE COME AT LAST! LOOK TO US, WHOSE TIME HAS PASSED."

holy shit what

>>371619
Ask them how to open the door.

Looks like they're separated from their weapons- I wonder if each is directly across from their chosen tool, or if they're mixed up?

need to put a weapon on a head or a head on a weapon. ask them what the test is. race is not a good thing to go by for this.

Neena 2011/12/12(Mon)00:02 No. 371643 ID: a9ba96
File 132367695437.jpg - (108.04KB , 1024x768 , 9c32b139.jpg )

"Oh, Hi there. You three... Wouldn't happen to know how to open this door, would you?"
>"Aye, we three are adventurers who dared to brave the depths of the Deep Well, but knew not the dangers that were within. And now we are cursed, denied final rest like all who fall within the lair of the devious Lich Torment... denied rest as you soon will be as well."
"That's... all very nice. But that doesn't tell me how to open the door."
>"Each of us fell with our weapons at our side, and the door will open when we are reunited with our weapons once more. Across from us lies three weapons; a Sword, handle gold and embroidered with priceless gems with a blade forged from silver. A Knife, simple in design but effective all the same. A Staff, intricately designed with a ruby red orb at the end. You may ask each of us one of the following questions - "What were you in life?" "Why did you brave the Deep Well?", and "What did you do just before you died?" Each question may yield the facts you seek from one of us, but be of no use if asked to another. Choose wisely.
>You do not necessarily need to ask all three questions. You do not necessarily need to ask the same question thrice. But you may only ask us a single question at a time, and it must be one of those three. We will answer truthfully, and after all three questions have been answered you will place our weapons in front of our heads. If you are wrong, you must ask another three questions and try again. We will not acknowledge your choice unless three questions have been asked first, and with each wrong choice the skeletons outside come closer to forcing your friends inside, where they will crowd this room... And your heads will join ours. Are you ready?"
"I... think."

ask the elf what he did just before he died, as a look of regret.

>>371643
An interesting puzzle... you only have to get the info for two of them. Once you know the weapon for two adventurers, there is only one left for the last. So, to maximize our chances of getting the questions right the first time, ask two adventurers one question and the last one the other. That gives us a 33% chance to win on the first round (since asking the single-asked question correctly guarantees that we hit one of the other heads with a correct question), and on the second round we are guaranteed to ask the right questions since we'd know the wrong ones from the first round.

I say ask "what were you in life" to the first two heads, and ask the elf what he did just before he died.

>>371656
no, we could ask the wrong two heads the wrong question, and then the third head would of been right, but you switched questions, so it's still wrong.

>>371662
You misunderstand me.
Let's say ABC is the correct order.
If we ask AAC or BBC then we've hit two heads and the puzzle is solved.
If we ask CCA or CCB then yes we hit zero heads. However from either of those tests we can conclude that C is the last head's proper question, and then ask AAC or BBC next round, and win.
If we ask AAB or BBA then we hit one head. We have found the A or B head. We then replace the two we got wrong with C in order to find the C head next round, and since we found two of them the puzzle is solved.

Perfect logic.

>Each question may yield the facts you seek from one of us, but be of no use if asked to another.
This seems to indicate that asking the same question twice in the same round will not yield a positive result
> You do not necessarily need to ask the same question thrice
This indicates, however, that we can do so

>Each question may yield the facts you seek from one of us, but be of no use if asked to another.
>This seems to indicate that asking the same question twice in the same round will not yield a positive result

That's not how I read that. I think it means the heads are paired up with the questions. As in asking the same question all three heads will give you one answer that indicates a weapon from one head and answers that don't indicate a weapon from the other two.

>>371746
which suggests that if we do AAC and BBA and the luck we might "luck out" and miss out on a head.

AAA is guarenteed to give us 2 useless answers and 1 correct answer. At which point we can guess on the other 2 and get a 50/50 chance.

If we fail once our friends will probably not be overwhelmed and we can do BBB which is guarenteed to give us a correct answer for one of the other two. At which point we know for a fact 2 of the 3 which means by elimination we must know all 3...

Thus AAA followed by BBB gives us:
50% chance of success on first try
100% chance of success on second try.

Any other combination provides small chance of getting it on first try and a larger chance of missnig two tries which is too large a risk.

Warn the others that it is a puzzle that you have the solution for, but the fighting will intensify while you work, and that you will try to be quick. Then quickly do AAA followed by BBB.

>>371748
This sounds good, but of course we should change our plan in the case that we do get an answer from one of the first two asked. (So if we are doing CCC, and the second head we ask answers, we should ask the remaining head question A or B.)
The elf and what he did before he died seems like a good place to start.

>>371748
Even if we hit 0 heads with my method we can still guess at a 17% chance. Since the other two chances are a 50% guess and a 100% guess, my method's superior on average (55%) on the first round, AND has a 100% chance on the second round.

>>371759
His method gives more than a 50% chance the first time; if one of the first two heads answers she can ask a different question to the other head(s).

>>371759
Yours is similar, the problem is that you forget we actually need the correct ANSWERS not just to match it up the correct QUESTION.

If we ask question A twice and get a useless answer both time, then we know for a fact that the last head will answer correctly on A... at that point you suggest we ask the last head B or C... this is pointless. We need the actual correct answer. It will be better to actually ask the last head A and get the right answer for that. Then in subsequen rounds not ask it AT ALL since we know it is. Simply ask heads 1 and 2 question B.

We will KNOW what the correct questions after 4 questions at most... but We must actually ask that 5th question to know what the correct ANSWERS are.

The absolute worst case scenario:
1. Ask head 1 question A, it is wrong question
2. Ask head 2 question A, it is wrong question. Conclusion: We now know for a fact that head 3 should be asked question A
3. Ask head 3 question A, it is right question. We now have the right answer for head 3. Make a "50% chance to win" bet on what is the correct answer for heads 1 and 2.
4. Ask head 1 question B, it is wrong question. Conclusion: question C must be the right question for head 1, question B for head 2.
5. Ask head 2 question B, it is right question. We now have the right answers for heads 2 and 3, and via elimination head 1 as well. We solved the puzzle. We are not REQUIRED to ask head 3 a question and can finilize that round at this point.

By your method at step three we will use question B on head 3 which we KNOW is the wrong question.

Also by asking AAA we get a baseline, since if the answers are vague enough it might take further puzzling once getting the "correct" answer to figure out who is who.

We can naturally luck out, 1/6 chance of solving the puzzle by asking only two questions (question A to head 1, correct question. Question B to head 2, correct question... elimination means we don't even have to ask head 3, just place the items)

You guys are assuming that we can change our chosen questions midway through. My method assumes we can't. If we can do that, then by all means let's do it. Just start asking one question until we get useful information, then change if we get a hit. Then we can avoid ever getting 0 hits, and our odds of getting enough information to solve the puzzle on the first round become far higher. I won't bother calculating it, since the situation for that is more complicated.

>>371776
Of course we can... She has to manually ask them one by one...
and actually such an assumption is not required. It merely allows finding the answer in fewer questions.

Also by asking AAA we get a baseline, since if the answers are vague enough it might take further puzzling once getting the "correct" answer to figure out who is who. This is actually a puzzle that is 3 layers deep.
Layer 1: Match the right questions to the right heads
Layer 2: Figure out which answers are misleading chaff and which one is a "correct" answer.
Layer 3: Solve from the "correct" answer, which head owns which item. Optionally taken as its own unique puzzle without asking any questions. (can be done that way for speed by quickly going through all the options as our allies run inside; not recommended)

Neena 2011/12/12(Mon)14:21 No. 371787 ID: a9ba96
File 132372848492.jpg - (108.06KB , 1024x768 , 053ad398.jpg )

Okay so... If I ask all of the heads... twice... about...

Listen, I'm not very good at math. You guys keep track of those calculations and percentages, and I'll start asking questions.

"Elf?"
>"You may ask of me a single question. What do you wish to know?"
"What did you do just before you died?"
>"...Alas, there was no glory in my death. I spent my final moment cowering in a corner as the fiends closed in... I don't know how it happened... I had been so careful... "
The elven head sighs.
>"This is all I can say."

Hmm... not sure if that tells us anything, but I guess it's on to the Catfolk and the Human. What do you want me to ask next?

Now I guess we try asking the catfolk the same question, to see whether a 'wrong question' gives no answer or just a misleading or uninformative answer.

>>371791
May as well.

Neena 2011/12/12(Mon)14:57 No. 371814 ID: a9ba96
File 132373065083.jpg - (108.77KB , 1024x768 , cf7fa5e5.jpg )

"Catfolk?"
>"You may ask of me one question. What do you want to know?"
"What did you do just before you died?"
>"In spite of grevious wounds, I made one last attempt to attack the mad Lich Tormet in my final breaths. I died fighting to the end! This is all I can say."

>>371814
Probably the fighter... ask the last guy what he was in life.

We should ask the human the same question. They said "Each question may yield the facts you seek from one of us, but be of no use if asked to another". That would imply that two of the answers are extremely vague (like the ones we got), while one is actually informative.

Neena 2011/12/12(Mon)16:01 No. 371834 ID: a9ba96
File 132373449078.jpg - (108.36KB , 1024x768 , b6979b34.jpg )

Hmmm... Let's try out the "AAB strategy" first...

"Human?"
>"You may ask of me one question. What do you want to know?"
"What were you in life?"
>"A man with a full damn body, that's what I was in life. Beyond that, I was a vagabond. A drifter. I moved from pace to place, and sold my services to those with the proper coin."
The human grumbles.
>"This is all I can say. You have asked three questions, and we have answered - now make your first attempt to reunite us with the weapon we died with."


I'm not sure how much we can work with from all of that...

The sounds of battle intensify outside.

let's try dagger sword staff.

Huh, unless there were very unusual circumstances involved that answer was quite useful.
So I guess:
Elf -> staff
Catfolk -> sword
Human -> dagger

Nah.. an innocent "walking stick" has served drifters many a time, has it not?

>>371836
>>371837
These seem right, although the sword and dagger could be reversed. Remember, some systems allow you to use Dexterity instead of Strength for small bladed weapons, and almost all felinids get significant Dexterity bonuses.

>>371837
I agree.

>>371838
I am fairly certain that the human is the dagger user, though I am less sure about the sword/staff.
The sword and staff are both elaborate and bejeweled. If he was able to afford either of those he would be either a rich adventurer (and therefore seeking glory rather than payment) or a member of some organization such as a mercenary company (and therefore not a vagabond).

Oh yes, elaborate/bejeweled means almost certainly not the vagabond.

> Let's try out the "AAB strategy" first...
That was a mistake since both first answers were vague the last person was almost certainly A... Unless all answers are super vague and we got the right answer without realizing it. Which means we needed that answer. Which means we will have to ask 6 questions rather then 5 questions to win

Next round start by asking head 3 Q-A
That is.
Ask the Human: "What did you do just before you died?"

Following by asking the other two "What were you in life?"

Neena 2011/12/13(Tue)18:41 No. 372135 ID: a9ba96
File 132383050286.jpg - (104.95KB , 578x768 , 91f2e455.jpg )

Kay... So, knife for the human, sword for the catfolk, and staff for the elf.

Neena places the items on the pedestal and takes a step back.

>"Truth accepted! You've passed this test, but beware the Mad Lich torment! His powers are great, as he conspires with dark forces and seeks to make all in this realm feel the suffering he feels... tread carefully, thy path has opened."

Neena 2011/12/13(Tue)18:42 No. 372136 ID: a9ba96
File 132383054853.jpg - (69.57KB , 445x524 , 36ce6347.jpg )

"Guys! The path is open!"

>"Then we've no time to spare! The fiends outside continue to press on!"

Neena 2011/12/13(Tue)18:47 No. 372139 ID: a9ba96
File 132383087258.jpg - (172.03KB , 1024x768 , a75734b5.jpg )

...I wonder how many giant statues this guy had built of himself. Guess he must have a lot of free time down here.

Samon inspects the door.
>"Damn... I cannot get this door to budge."

Thissarin looks at the large pool of black water in the center of the room.
>"Interesting... the water here is very deep - it appears to be the same waters of the well through which we entered this lair."
"Do you have any idea where this leads to?"
>"Nay, though it seems likely to lead deeper into the bowels of this accursed place of necromantic arts."

Samon glances at the well, and back at the door.
>"Aye... deeper into this pit the waters may lead... but with the door sealed tightly and the undead closing in behind us, we have few other routes that I can think to take."
"Um... yield, companions! I think I can see something moving under t--"

Neena 2011/12/13(Tue)18:51 No. 372141 ID: a9ba96
File 132383110499.jpg - (137.65KB , 840x699 , fa2945ea.jpg )

And then a skeleton popped out!

And then we sliced it in half!

hit it's arm at the elbow!

slice its sword arm at the elbow

Neena 2011/12/13(Tue)19:59 No. 372152 ID: a9ba96
File 132383516986.jpg - (83.33KB , 414x601 , 3f559271.jpg )

Neena swings downward, slicing through the sword arm of the skeleton. It lets out a gasp and falls back into the well, still holding onto Neena's shirt.

Oh shit oh shit oh shit oh shit...

The arm holding Neena snaps off, and the skeleton falls back into the well. Neena feels herself stumbling forwards...

Oh shit oh shit oh shit oh shit

Neena 2011/12/13(Tue)20:02 No. 372153 ID: a9ba96
File 132383533433.jpg - (35.85KB , 301x768 , 1727d963.jpg )

As the skeleton falls backwards through the balckness, it collides with another skeleton rapidly moving up. A handful of bones snap off and both of the undead warriors and scatter through the darkness, and the skeleton traveling up looses his grip on his shield.

Neena 2011/12/13(Tue)20:03 No. 372154 ID: a9ba96
File 132383542916.jpg - (32.89KB , 388x764 , c54dcf6b.jpg )

The scattered bones disturb the ascent of several other skeletons, who begin to fall back through the darkness.

Neena 2011/12/13(Tue)20:08 No. 372156 ID: a9ba96
File 132383569836.jpg - (92.01KB , 1024x768 , 92143904.jpg )

Tumbling into the black waters, Neena finds herself in freefall down a dark void alongside a group of angry skeletons.

REMIND ME TO TELL VARN THAT THIS WAS ALL A REALLY DUMB IDEA

>>372156
Uhhhhhh... I really don't know much about zero-G combat, except that you can't really move around aside from rotating without pushing, pulling, or throwing things. If nothing is within reach then just guard yourself against the skeletons. Grab that shield if you can, it could be useful.

Oh shit, one of them's about to shoot you with an arrow. Blocking that would be good! If you can't reach the shield, swipe it with us so that it smashes into the archer.

archer downward and sword to your right.

That is some really magicked up water right there. Normal water is far too thick for bones to fall through with any kind of force.
Unfortunately, this means you probably can't swim in it with any more effect than swimming in air, and that skeleton can actually shoot at you with its bow (which would be impossible in normal water without some kind of magic bow).

Grab the unarmed half-skeleton to your left and throw it at the bow wielding skeleton (which is nearly as difficult as throwing an actual person because bones are pretty lightweight) in front of you. If freefall momentum mechanics still applies here this should propel you away from the other skeletons. If that does not happen, prepare to defend against the half-skeleton with a sword to your right.

Let this be a lesson to you: Don't bother with wearing a shirt!

Wait, no, that ain't right.

When you throw, complete the lob from as near your middle as possible. Otherwise you'll be adding momentum off your center of gravity, and will start spinning around.

Neena 2011/12/14(Wed)20:34 No. 372446 ID: a9ba96
File 132392367682.jpg - (53.03KB , 581x681 , 53dab6a9.jpg )

Though the shield is currenly too far out of her reach, Neena manages to turn around and grab onto the arm of the skeleton falling next to her.

Neena 2011/12/14(Wed)20:37 No. 372447 ID: a9ba96
File 132392385070.jpg - (42.18KB , 459x768 , f6a622c3.jpg )

She turns agajn and tosses the skeleton down, between her and the archer below. The archer releases his arrow, which sinks into the thrown skeleton's skull.

The toss effectively distances Neena from the archer and the main group of undead...

Neena 2011/12/14(Wed)20:39 No. 372448 ID: a9ba96
File 132392397112.jpg - (62.65KB , 602x768 , b5480968.jpg )

...But Neena notices that the distance between her and the one-armed skeleton above her with a sword is closing quickly.

YOU KNOW THIS WOULD BE PRETTY COOL IF IT WEREN'T FOR THE FACT THAT THINGS ARE TRYING TO MURDER ME

Raise your sword to block! Your right foot is near its face, kick out!

>>372448

Did you know about the Monty Haul problem?

It's a game show where the contestant is presented with three doors and told to make a choice with no extra information. Once the contestant has chosen a door, the game show host opens one of the doors he knows does not contain a prize. The contestant is then given the option of staying with the door he initially picked, or picking the other door.

The interesting thing is that the contestant can instantly improve his chances of winning if he does switch doors. This is because the odds of picking the right door changed from 33% to 50%. In other words, he had a 66% chance of picking the wrong door first, so by picking the remaining door he instantly improves his odds of having the right door.

Weird, huh?

Oh yeah, parry and then smash it's arm.

>>372448
You know, we probably should have taken those heads with us. They might have been able to warn us about this.

Block, then kick its face.

>>372448
Raise blade to block and roll over onto it, from there we should be able to just tear it apart.

>>372452
Actually, not quite. First of all, it is named the Monty Hall problem, and secondly, while switching does help, the odds of winning from staying vs switching are actually (1/3) vs (2/3). This is because after the host opens a door, you know there is nothing behind it, so you are left with two possible doors. The host cannot open your initial choice, and he cannot open the door containing the prize, so if you chose a wrong door initially (a 2/3 chance), the host must open the other wrong door.
As one of the wrong doors was revealed by the host, and there are only two wrong doors, if your initial selection was a wrong door (again, a 2/3 chance) the unopened door that you did not initially select is guaranteed to contain the prize, as the supply of wrong doors has been exhausted.

I do agree with the part about parrying then breaking its sword arm. I am curious as to whether it will stay animate when it is out of limbs.

>>372513
>This is irrelevant to the fact that after he opens a door there is a 1/2 chance for either remaining door to be correct and no way of you knowing.
Nope: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monty_Hall_problem
But I'm not sure why probability theory is suddenly relevant.
>>372448
As long as you keep your sword in front of you, he'll bounce off after his first strike.

what the fuck does Monty Hall have to do with neena fighting skeletons? shut up about it before you confuse her and she gets hurt.

>Monty Hall
Take it to questdis... err, is there a questdis for this quest?

Neena 2011/12/15(Thu)16:32 No. 372662 ID: a9ba96
File 132399553393.jpg - (82.31KB , 784x624 , bf3e7582.jpg )

THINK WE COULD HOLD OFF THE MATH FOR A BIT HERE? I'M KINDA IN THE MIDDLE OF SOMETHING.

Neena blocks the skeleon's attack and kicks him.

Neena 2011/12/15(Thu)16:37 No. 372664 ID: a9ba96
File 132399587046.jpg - (59.70KB , 703x748 , ddeed0bc.jpg )

The Skeleton is distanced a good deal from Neena, but she hears an arrow whizz past her. It misses by quite a bit, but she finds the distance between her and the archer shortening again.

HOW LONG OF A FALL IS THIS, ANYWAY? I HOPE THERE'S MORE MAGIC WATER OR SOMETHING AT THE BOTTOM, OR ELSE WE'RE GONNA HAVE TO START TRYING TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO NOT DIE HORRIBLY ON IMPACT

The archer loads another arrow and takes aim.

grab the shield and throw it like a big frisbee.

The shield! Get to the shield and grab it and block the shot!

And don't frisbee it, that's a terrible idea! It's throwing away the only protection she has against arrows, and I doubt it's going to kill the archer even if it hits.

>>372675
This could be illusory. Get out of immediate danger, then disbelieve you are falling.

Neena 2011/12/15(Thu)19:14 No. 372731 ID: a9ba96
File 132400529589.jpg - (75.03KB , 574x699 , e759a80a.jpg )

ITS KIND OF HARD TO "DISBELIEVE" THAT YOU'RE TUMBLING DOWN A BLACK VOID SURROUNDED BY SKELETONS WHEN YOU'RE TUMBLING DOWN A BLACK VOID SURROUNDED BY SKELETONS.

Neena grabs the shield as she falls and blocks the arrow as the archer releases it. Though Neena begins to get within range of the archer, the skeleton falling nearby it has managed to grab a sword amidst all the chaos.

Neena is down to the final two skeletons in the immediate area, though a large number fall below far out of range.

shield slam the archer into the sword one.

>>372731
The archer is dead meat now. Just hit him or the bow, doesn't matter how. The bigger threat is that sword skeleton. So focus on it more.

the lich seems aware you are here, has been throwing things at you which are part trap part riddles for his amusement. I don't think you are falling to your death, I think this is the next test as the well was the only path to take. Destroy the last skeletons and you should reach the next "stage"

Do you have a scabbard to store us in? If so, you can cut that skeleton's head off then grab its body to take its bow and arrows. That can cut down on your work when you meat the next wave.

Neena 2011/12/20(Tue)19:13 No. 373817 ID: a9ba96
File 132443718982.jpg - (133.23KB , 809x766 , 4cb5114a.jpg )

Neena swings and smashes her shield against the archer's head, which snaps clean off. The swordsman takes a swing, but is too far away to connect.

Neena 2011/12/20(Tue)19:15 No. 373819 ID: a9ba96
File 132443734031.jpg - (36.69KB , 728x606 , 8317835b.jpg )

Neena finds herself moving farther away from the sword-wielding skeleton. Though she is safely outside of its range, she feels herself rapidly beginning to accelerate, as if pulled by an outside force. She continues to fall farther away, and the skeletons above her disappear from sight.

Though she is still a fair distance away from the swarm of skeletons below, the distance between them begins to close rapidly.

JUST HOW FAR DOWN DO YOU THINK THIS GOES, ANYWAY?

Neena 2011/12/20(Tue)19:17 No. 373820 ID: a9ba96
File 132443742648.jpg - (17.26KB , 892x681 , 38b07ef4.jpg )

Suddenly, everything goes dark

...

Neena 2011/12/20(Tue)19:18 No. 373822 ID: a9ba96
File 132443751455.jpg - (126.54KB , 951x699 , 0c3ed81b.jpg )

>"...I am the warrior, who slays the vilest of beasts with his might."
>"I am the thief, and your might means nothing against a foe that remains unseen in the dark until he strikes."
>"Aye, but I am the light that clears away the darkness and reveals you for all to see."
>"Then I AM A WIZARD! I'm afraid you lose again."
>"...Supremicus, can we please play this game right? For once?"
>"WIZARD."
>"...Gods be damned."

"Urrgh..."

>"Hey, you hear that? Guys, I think she might still be breathing..."

Heh... That was... actually pretty cool...

>>373822
Oh, they're playing The Oldest Game. We're a big fan of that one. I wonder if that's our next challenge? Get yourself up and ask what is up.

>>373822
"I am the end of all things, to which even a wizard must succumb.
Seriously, what's wrong with you? At least let these people have their bodies so they can do things. I can't imagine how torturous it would be to be incapable of doing anything but talk. To you."

i do not recommend playing the game until you know the stakes.

Well look at that. Its the guys those talking heads came from.

>>373851
Also this is probably a good idea.

Neena 2011/12/20(Tue)22:09 No. 373875 ID: a9ba96
File 132444777288.jpg - (74.50KB , 723x691 , 7bc5985a.jpg )

You know, I think I've seen Varnavictus play a game like this with some of the other apprentices to the archmages a few times.

Neena slowly rises to her feet.

>"Yeah, look! She's getting up! Told you guys she was still alive."

Neena 2011/12/20(Tue)22:12 No. 373877 ID: a9ba96
File 132444792577.jpg - (103.23KB , 723x766 , b70ffec9.jpg )

>"That's hard to believe, she hit the ground pretty... oh, hey. It is you, from earlier. I certainly didn't expect to see you among the living again."
"Hey... in that bubble... is that the Heart of Torment?"
>"Indeed it is. This is the vessel which contains the soul of this lair's master, Torment."
"And who is this wizard that guards it?"
>"Oh, you are mistaken. Supremicus is not the guardian of the Heart of Torment. We three spirits maintain the otherworldly shell which contains the mad Lich's phylactery."
"Well in that case... will you open it for me?"
>"What? No. Absolutely not."

why not?

Memory 1: Lost Knowledge 1/2 Unlocked ("Supremicus the Supreme") Neena 2011/12/20(Tue)22:15 No. 373881 ID: a9ba96
File 132444812832.jpg - (103.28KB , 723x766 , e7c62403.jpg )

"Huh? Why not?"
>"This ethereal bubble does not simply safeguard the Heart of Torment. If that were the case, we would dispel it and allow you a fair chance at defeating our killer. But that is not the case. As his final punishment, Torment sentenced our spirits to be the keepers of his palace - including the shell which both contains his phylactery and imprisons Supremicus the Supreme."
"Well, what's so bad about Supremicus that you won't let me take the phylactery?"
>"Supremicus used to operate under the Guild of Mages. He sought to find ways to defend against dark magic, but believed in order to do so he had to first master the arts of dark magic himself. Though the Guild sanctioned these experiments at first, they grew fearful of his powers and had him exiled to this lair before Torment made it a tomb of necromantic horrors. He agreed, and went into exile willingly... but rumors of his location circulated, and he still taught what he had learned to those who sought him out. Torment and I... in life, we chased rumors to this place, hoping that Supremicus' knowledge could aid in the war against the Orcs. But his teachings proved... too much for my partner. He performed an ancient ritual to obtain lichdom, becoming the first in centuries, set his minions upon me, and imprisoned Supremicus in a sphere of undead energy that would sap the souls of most men, but simply traps Supremicus the Supreme in place."
"But if you keep him trapped here, there's no way of defeating Torment."
>"True, but my old friend is but one Lich, and Supremicus has the knowledge to breed a hundred. I've told him that I would release him if he swore to never teach his magics again, but he refuses. He says he will only agree if he is bested in a duel of wits... but he gets desperate when he nears defeat and cheats. Refuses to admit defeat. So he remains here."
"But-"
>"I'm sorry, cyclops. But we are at an impasse, it seems."

we have moved too far forward. need to follow the path back and open the door for the others from the inside. we have found one of the lost knowledges in this memory. but beating him may not give us the other. ask if the pathway will lead back to the exit.

Ask Supremicus if he has any tips on how to become a lich, as long as we're down here.

it sounds like what we need is an impartial judge. I don't suppose anyone here has the ability to summon one.

We might want to ask him if he ever actually found that defense against dark magic.

>>373881
I wasn't aware it was possible to cheat at The Oldest Game via words alone. There are things you can use in response to WIZARD.

Also I find it completely ridiculous that Torment had that name in life as well. Ask if he was given that name at birth or if there's some other reason behind the name.

>>373892

There are things you can do, but a wizard is still the answer to all of them.

Mmm... Recall that our goal is to find what was learned. Should we not wait for those we need to oberserve?
Although, if we must do it ourselves you can simply challenge him yourself, and say "wizard" right away.

Pffft. Challenge him. When he says wizard, respond with "Three spirits and a sphere of undead energy."

>>373895
no, start with wizard.

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)00:11 No. 373938 ID: a9ba96
File 132445510220.jpg - (67.30KB , 786x768 , e5938bab.jpg )

"Wait, you mean this guy's name was "Torment" before this whole "Mad Lich" thing?"
>"Well, no. He was a man named Arkeel in life... but Arkeel died when Torment was born."
"Hey, the door at the end of the path... Is that the door we couldn't pass earlier?"
>"Hmm? Oh, yes. I believe it is. But the path ends here - only Supremicus can bring you to torment from this spot."
"There were skeletons closing in on my friends on the other side of that door before I got pulled into the fountain..."

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)00:13 No. 373939 ID: a9ba96
File 132445519156.jpg - (71.28KB , 576x735 , ed6217c3.jpg )

The catfolk specter springs up and snaps her fingers.
>"That so? Let's give em' a bit more room then, if they're still among the living!"

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)00:16 No. 373941 ID: a9ba96
File 132445536398.jpg - (127.99KB , 785x763 , 959b8523.jpg )

The door swings open, and Samon and the Elves pour out. A horde of skeletons follows close behind.
>"Ah! Cyclops! There you be! Good to know that the black waters could claim you not! I had a feeling that you'd pull through for us! It seems you've been doing a fine job getting the path open for us thus far- no need to change that now, I'd say! We'll hold back the skeletons as long as we can!"

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)00:17 No. 373942 ID: a9ba96
File 132445547683.jpg - (102.00KB , 723x766 , 39b7750d.jpg )

The wizard laughs, and then looks to Neena
>"Ahhh... I know not how long your friends will last against that many undead, Cyclops! I can tell that you've come a long way in hopes of defeating my old student. It would be a shame if you were all to perish here. Match me in a game of wits, and I will fulfill Canium's request, and hopefully then he will be reasonable enough to let us all go about our business. Surely you know The Oldest Game."
"Yes, Supremicus."
>"Very good! Canium, you will judge. "
>"Uh... sure. Can we actually have a fair game this time? If she wins, will you admit defeat?"
>"Of course. If she wins."

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)00:19 No. 373945 ID: a9ba96
File 132445555842.jpg - (76.08KB , 575x766 , ef47d403.jpg )

Alright guys, here we go.

>"Cyclops, you may begin."

"i am a wizard"

>>373945
I am a WIZARD!

Wait no let's phrase it properly.

"I am a wizard, magic wielding, keen of mind."

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)00:58 No. 373954 ID: a9ba96
File 132445789785.jpg - (103.54KB , 741x768 , c3fa3085.jpg )

"I am a wizard, magic using, keen of mind."

>"Yeah, we've tried that before. You've only bought yourself a bit of time."

>"I'm the anti-magic field, ten feet of protection from your magic and spells."

"i am a spell sword, what my magic cannot reach my sword can cut"

"I am a warrior, unhindered by a lack of magic"

...Think he's close enough to just stab him? If he does cheat. Also, Supremicus the Supreme might be a good option. Not now, but for later.

>>373954
"Hey, wait one minute, which ruleset are we using for the Oldest Game? Freeform, Material, Semantic, or Contextual? Are we permitting repeats?"
>Freeform is anything goes, physical or imaginary, as long as the idea of it exists.
>Material means you can only use existing things; ideas and concepts are not permissible.
>Semantic is countering the opponent on any point relevant to their topic: a legalistic game rather than a direct rock-beats-scissors counter.
>Contextual requires that each player can only use topics in relation to their original, unless an opponent finds an opening to force a 'genre shift' to reset the context.
>No repeats is standard gameplay, in which you can't reuse the same topic at any point. Permitting repeats allows for stalling time and stalemating, if you play Freeform rules.

>>374014
too late, the game has started. asking now will make us lose.

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)10:30 No. 374022 ID: a9ba96
File 132449225495.jpg - (59.21KB , 465x669 , d09cb4a2.jpg )

>Are we close enough to just stab him?
For some reason the whole "sphere of undead energy that would sap most men's souls in an instant" thing makes me a bit less than willing to try that.

"I am the warrior, and I am not phased by a lack of magic."

>"And I am the warriors' pride, which clouds his better judgement and leads to that fatal mistake on the battlefield."

"i am the Master, humility instilling."

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)11:01 No. 374027 ID: a9ba96
File 132449408456.jpg - (64.14KB , 518x763 , 9bb760ff.jpg )

"I am the master, humility instilling."

He points at the bubble above his head and laughs.
>"Then I am the student who will one day surpass you!"

i am the cost of power, one day you will regret paying me.

>>374032
Sure, sounds good.
Unless you have a better idea, Neena?

I am time, which kills all its pupils.

Also; beat that.

Wait, no, what's he pointing at? Continue playing but take a look with your big fucking eye.

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)17:13 No. 374078 ID: a9ba96
File 132451639049.jpg - (85.42KB , 611x768 , 496bd075.jpg )

>Unless you have a better idea?

Huh, me? I'm basically entirely banking on you guys for this one. I only agreed to this because you guys automatically recognized what the ghost and the wizard were playing.

I said that I saw Varnavictus and some other mages playing something like this once, not that I understood it.

Truth be told, I'm still not sure how this game works. I'm just repeating what sounds good from you guys.

"I am the cost of power, and you will someday come to regret paying me."

>"Oh? But I am apathy, and I regret nothing."

How it works is that you have to respond with a thing that counters the opponent's. The game ends when one player takes too long or gives up.

"I am Torment, impossible to ignore."

The best thing to do in these sorts of games is to use concepts that the opponent is unfamiliar with, or uncomfortable addressing.

I am love, overcoming apathy.

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)19:01 No. 374114 ID: a9ba96
File 132452289439.jpg - (54.07KB , 463x768 , 0dad1207.jpg )

>what was he pointing at?
I think he was making joke about his current situation, considering that he trained Torment and now he's trapped in his soul sphere thing.

"I am love, overcoming apathy."

>"...I am death... Bringing it to an abrupt end."

His voice seems to falter.

I am memory, surpassing death.

"I am a lich, mocking death and all who have died."

>>374114
He lost someone, we need to poke at that subject through the game, he will get distracted or give up.

>>374115
This.

>>374116

This is way better.

>>374116
This.

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)23:17 No. 374190 ID: a9ba96
File 132453823269.jpg - (105.84KB , 535x767 , fde67344.jpg )

Behind you, and arrow shot by one of the skeletons plunges itself into Arkidus' chest. He lets out a pained cry and falls backwards.

You hear Swiftarrow cry out from the bridge.
>"Damn, Arkidus! Could one of you guys consider being briefness? I'm not sure how much longer we can hold out here..."

We have to give the answer before saying anything else. Hesitating too much can loose us the game.
I think the lich answer would probably be best.

Neena 2011/12/21(Wed)23:20 No. 374194 ID: a9ba96
File 132453844905.jpg - (53.52KB , 449x768 , fcac78a6.jpg )

Shit, shit, shit... I think they just took out one of the elves... Gotta concentrate here, not really sure how much time we have left...

"I am the Lich. I mock death, and all who have died."

The wizard grimaces.
>"I am the paladin! I carry the light of the gods of protection and justice - the bane of your undead creations!"

>>374194
"I am Supremicus the Supreme, blocking the path to the Lich."

>>374195
this. if nothing else to see how he answers.

>>374195
This is a decent plan.

>>374195
HA! Yes!

Neena 2011/12/22(Thu)14:04 No. 374314 ID: a9ba96
File 132459149238.jpg - (109.04KB , 754x768 , c2457839.jpg )

"I am Supremicus the Supreme. I block the path for all noble men who wish to slay the Lich."
The wizard seems shocked.
>"Wha... um, then I am the mad Lich, Torment! I have bested Supremicus and trapped him deep within...wait, no..."
>"What's that, Supremicus? Is that hesitation? That's against the rules."
>"He is not greater. I am... I am..."
>"Supremicus, I think you have--"

Neena 2011/12/22(Thu)14:06 No. 374317 ID: a9ba96
File 132459158697.jpg - (120.64KB , 1024x768 , 89017273.jpg )

>"I am Supremicus the Supreme! No man, dead or alive is greater than I! I! Am! A! WIZAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD!"

I...

...I think I won?

yes, but may need to say "i already used wizard"

This my dear friend is when you say two words.

Prove it.

>>374317

And so he refuses to admit defeat. Yeah, we already used wizard AND Supremicus. Or is he saying he can only best himself?

"I am not a man. I am a woman; Cyclops adventurer, quick of wit, and man-confounding."

If he still refuses to agree, why don't you offer a compromise?
He may still teach students but must test their character and refuse to teach the corrupt, swear to assist in taking out any of his students that goes rogue, and outright avoid teaching lichdom (perhaps drop that part in favor of requiring even more stringent tests of character before teaching that bit)

>>374319
no
>>374320
YES!
>>374362
>"I am not a man. I am a woman; Cyclops adventurer, quick of wit, and man-confounding."
Funny but we already won.

Winston 2011/12/22(Thu)17:35 No. 374419 ID: 0d7a83
File 132460415948.jpg - (28.87KB , 480x412 , nobro.jpg )

>>374362

Neena 2011/12/22(Thu)22:39 No. 374485 ID: a9ba96
File 132462237941.jpg - (80.24KB , 946x615 , ebfb8442.jpg )

"Prove it."

The wizard turns to the elven ghost.
>"Let. Me. Out."
>"Do you swear to seize your teachings of the dark arts?"
>"If you truly desire that my years of studying be lost, yes. I promise you that - and I make it a wizard promise, so I guarantee that it will not be broken!"
>"A...wizard promise?"
>"NO RESPECTABLE WIZARD WOULD DARE BREAK A WIZARD PROMISE."
>"...Very well then."

The ghostly bubble slowly dissipates and sizzles into nothingness

Neena 2011/12/22(Thu)22:40 No. 374486 ID: a9ba96
File 132462242482.jpg - (69.75KB , 891x414 , ac29efb3.jpg )

Well that game was pretty cool. Maybe I'll challenge Varnavictus later; I'm pretty sure I'd do well as long as you guys provided you many tongues to help

...Or would that be cheating?

"Lord Supremicus. The elven specter says that you know how to open the path to the Lich ahead..."
>"Aye!"
"Where do we need to go from here?"
>"DOWN! HYAAAAAAAA!"

The wizard raises his fist in the air.

Oh gods what is he doing

Neena 2011/12/22(Thu)22:41 No. 374487 ID: a9ba96
File 132462246553.jpg - (134.87KB , 871x608 , e770824b.jpg )

>"Companions, ho! The wizard brings us to the fiendish Lich!"
Samon and the elves rush onto the platform as the wizard swings his fist downwards.

WHAT IS HE DOING

Supremicus punches the ground with a thunderous BANG, and the platfrom rumbles...

Neena 2011/12/22(Thu)22:43 No. 374488 ID: a9ba96
File 132462259141.jpg - (138.33KB , 928x559 , a709ce71.jpg )

...and great crack is heard at it breaks free from the bridge and begin to plummet through the black void.

The catfolk ghost calls down to the warriors
>"Good luck! Give 'im hell!"

Supremicus the Supreme's shouts echo through the darkness as the platform falls
>"WIZAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD!!!"


HOLY SHIT THIS IS PRETTY MUCH SIMULTANEOUSLY THE COOLEST AND SCARIEST THING EVER

Neena 2011/12/22(Thu)22:44 No. 374489 ID: a9ba96
File 132462264063.jpg - (68.12KB , 640x768 , c6e0fb99.jpg )

>"..."

Neena 2011/12/22(Thu)22:48 No. 374492 ID: a9ba96
File 132462290534.jpg - (135.47KB , 785x768 , d70e580c.jpg )

KROOOM!
The chamber shakes as the platform lands.
Haha! Gods be praised, we survived that! I don't know what kind of ungodly wizard magic is at work here, but we actually survived that!

>"Ah...Supremics... You have brought more... mortalllllsssss..."
Samon points his blade at the Lich.
>"Undead abomination! Blight upon the Gods' creations! I am Samon the Barbarian, and I lead the crew that shall slay you, and end your wicked reign over the dead!"
>"...Such.... Spirit in you.... Step forth when... you are... ready to diiiiiiieeeeeeee..."

Samon looks at Supremicus.
>"Wizard! Destroy this Lich's phylactery so that I may grant him a final death!"
>"Not yet. I've tought Torment thoroughly in the the arts of necromancy. The Heart of Torment contains his soul, but he no doubt has another phylactery somewhere... If I destroy this one, his soul will be transferred to the next, and I know not where it may lie. You will have a very short timeframe after the destruction of the phylactery to slay Torment."
>"Very well. Can you aid us in the fight?"
>"Nay. That accursed bubble has left me drained. I used the last of my wizard strength to perform the ancient Wizard Punch... It will be some time before I have regenerated enough power to be a threat to Torment, and even so he knows my every move. But I will destroy his phylactery when you give the word."
>"Understood. Thissarin, Swiftarrow, Cyclops, I need you three to devise a distraction so that I may move in and slay the Lich."

Well... this is it. I've fought goblins and ogres in my travels, but I think an undead master of necromancy is a few steps above my league. Fortunately, I think all we need to do here is figure out how to keep him off guard so Samon can cut him down. He's a memory of a dead Lich, which means Samon's beat him once before... so there shouldn't be much to worry about.

...Hey! It's kinda like those Drow-Elf War reenactments that I told you about before. The outcome's predetermined, so as long as we don't screw up too bad we'll be just fine. Or at least that's what I'll keep telling myself. It'll all be much less terrifying that way.

>>374492
>We need a distraction!

>Boobs won't work, he's dead.
>Discourse won't work, liches are almost always batshit insane.
>Violence won't work - he's a lich.

I AM STUMPED

Its a risky plan, but you could always toss us over to him so we can whisper in his mind how his perceived existence is a lie, little more than an echo that will soon fade into nothingness regardless of the outcome of this confrontation, as his very 'reality' unravels like the fabrication it always was.
Fairly similar to what many real evil artifacts say, except in this case it is entirely accurate (though it may be a bit tough to prove).

Also, you might want to warn Samon to avoid cat-warrior's corpse, as you know how liches are with corpses left lying around.

>>374504

"OH MY GOD WHAT IS THAT BEHIND YOU???"

ask him how his ex is doing.

he looks somewhat bored, engage him in conversation.

So, what are his plans? To kill everyone and raise them as his minions? Wouldn't he grow really really bored having no-one to talk to?

he has a statue of himself CRYING, he wants the living to FEEL HIS PAIN, and his name is TORMENT.
do the math. he lost someone.

>>374552
upvoting this EXCELLENT path of conversation

>>374492
Oh, hey! The blood on the catgirl's corpse is fresh!
We could totally fix her if this wasn't just a memory, but since it is I don't think there's much we can do. Besides drawing her into Those Beyond, which is something which would have had happened anyway if it's something Those Beyond can do. Still, we're totally absorbing dream her so our group can make a connection to the real her since that seems like a thing that should work.
[Absorb catgirl into Those Beyond.]

If you want to distract him then there are two obvious approaches. The first is conversation, the second is confusing him.

For conversation you could consider either something like "How does it feel to have all this power but be impotent at getting what you really want?"
Or, if you want to be softer "Who did you lose who would want such horrors committed in their memory?"

For distraction? Grab the catgirl's corpse and start dancing a waltz across the floor.

>>374492
"You, the Lord of the Dead whose name is Torment, and whom's effigy is of Despair! I ask you: where has your love gone, that is beyond the grasp of your undeathly reach?"

Call him a wuss.

Neena 2011/12/23(Fri)22:18 No. 374856 ID: a9ba96
File 132470748587.jpg - (90.88KB , 545x660 , fe63e63f.jpg )

Neena and Samon jump down from the pillar into the chamber. Swiftarrow and Thissarin remain atop the pillar, ready to provide covering fire in case anything goes wrong.

"Alright Samon, we'll keep him off of you. Watch out for the warrior's corpse."
>"Aye. Best of luck cyclops."

>Get us into his possession so we can convince him that his existence is pointless
I think that could work really well to ensure Samon gets as killing blow in, but it's too dangerous right now to just run up to him... we'll have to keep him off guard before we can close our distance.

>He's lost something. Play off of that.
This seems like the easiest thing to start with... Alright now...

Neena 2011/12/23(Fri)22:22 No. 374858 ID: a9ba96
File 132470777435.jpg - (151.30KB , 792x768 , 41f185d6.jpg )

Torment sits in his seat. He looks at the two approaching warriors unenthusiastically.
"You, the Lord of the Dead whose name is Torment, and whom's effigy is of Despair! I ask you: where has your love gone, that is beyond the grasp of your undeathly reach?"
>"My... love, mortaaaallll? What would.... provoke a question.... Such as that?"
"The sprits in this place whisper that your goal is to share your pain with the living... surely you have lost something once close to you."
>"Is the same not true... for us aaaaalllll? Who has not lost something.... close to them... at some point of their mortal life? Yes, I'll admit that I sought... to learn of the necromantic arts in hopes of... bringing life to one who I have lossssstt... a bystander made a casualty in this senseless war with the Orcs to the east that nears its hundreth year... Alas, such a task was beyond my hands, even as a master of necromancy... even after the unspeakable ritual had been perforrrrmmeddd..."
"You could not resurrect her."
>"Yes. True resurrection is beyond the grasp of even a lord of the dead... the one barrier that no being in the plane of the living can surpaaaasss... The body can be brought back, but as a mindless automation, the skeletal minions you have slain by the dozens to reach me. They are bodies acting with no souls... and the soul can only be preserved... held in this realm, and denied entry into the neeeext... but not returned to its original shell... And my love's soul had passed on... outside my grasp. Foreveeeer."
"Then what do you wish to accomplish now?"
>"I've lost everything... I was an artist in life, but without her I could not find inspiratiooonn... Worldly desires no longer satisfyyyy... and I've taken to pondering the nature of death... it's finality... how it is destined for us all... no matter how we try we cheat it, death awaits for us in the end... in tiiiimmmee... but I have come to realize that that is it's beauty... our last release from this world... There is no torment in death... living is the tormeeeennnt... and I wish to teach that to all... Yes, I was an artist in life, but now I find no joy in the crafts of mortal hands... my sculptures lack life... But my new art shall be death! And only through teaching the torments of life will people admire it!"

You know... this guy is a lord over the undead and that's still terrifying, but I'm pretty sure that this guy was one of the last Lich's in the last three hundred years, besides the Drow liches created during the great war. You hear all the time about these guys being unstoppable forces of evil, but this guy doesn't seem to have the... I dunno, drive that most other liches had? For a guy called "The Mad Lich" he seems more... melodramatic than sinister.

Well, we've got his attention either way. Now we just have to get him riled up to give Samon an opening to start with... as suicidally dumb "riling up" a Lich would be in pretty much any other scenario.

"you know your plan is doomed to failure, you will kill and kill and then one day, you will run out of people and then you will be left all alone lord of the nothing, forever."

>>374865
that IS his plan.
Kill everyone ELSE and THEN commit suicide.

>>374867
he's a lich, he's ALREADY DEAD.

Simple. Call him WEAK for taking this path after losing his love rather than being able to recover like most everyone else.

>>374858
He's right that there is no torment in death. Only in the dying part. But life is usually not torment.

Tell him that if people see life as torment because of things he does, then they will seek to slay him rather than see death as an escape. He is accomplishing nothing.

>>374871
good idea.

>>374858
"Torment is being denied what you love, correct? Then what of those who love life? Those who have found their true love and not yet lost them?
To do as you say would only hasten the suffering of those who survive, not alleviate it.
And what of the dead for whom the end came too soon? You said that death will always come in time, but can't be undone. If that is so, then why not instead let people die when they no longer love life?

I would say to teach people to understand death instead of fear it, but I do not think you wish for that task. Instead, I think you should consider your own love. Leave your knowledge for those who follow your path, so no others will waste time fighting death for their love instead of embracing it.
She has been waiting for you for so very long, and we both know how that must end.
Go to her."

>>374871
This.

>>374896
Upvote (and deleted my own variation of that since this is better phrased)

>>374858
Uh, i think that Those Beyond could probably bring back his loved one's soul, or at least join it into the collective.

IDEA: Suggest to him that Those Beyond are with you, and even if we cannot truly return her to this world, we could still reunite them within the collective, once he has released his grasp upon this reality.

>>374858
As an aside, ask Supremicus if such a task as resurrection is in his capabilities.

>>375010
Mark was afraid his shoulder might have been seriously injured because healing magic has so many limitations. Even if this is the most powerful wizard ever, you're asking for something far beyond his capability.
Also? I'm pretty sure he would have done that already if he could.

>>374896
this. we may well be able to convince him to lie down and die.

>>375009
Where did you get the impression that we are the souls of the dead? We are closer to extra-planar Outsiders, complete with some degree of madness and terrible secrets.

Neena 2011/12/29(Thu)20:05 No. 376080 ID: a9ba96
File 132521792482.jpg - (131.03KB , 740x767 , a3f95797.jpg )

You're going to need to ask Varn if you want to know more about... you. You might be spirits, but I think absorbing any souls into your collective is far beyond your power. You've never been able to interact directly with the outside world, as far as I'm aware, and this doesn't seem any different. Even if the outside world in this case is actually inside of yourselves.

Man, that must actually be pretty surreal for you, huh?

...Oh, yeah. Lich.

"There are those who do not see as you do - who do not view life as torment. Torment is being denied what you love, and there are many out there who love life."
>"They have yet to understand its.... futilityyyyy. They are.... naive, blind to... the truth of this realm... that it's all for nothing.... that in the end it all goes awaaaay."
"You only hasten the suffering of those who live. You say yourself that death comes for all in time... if that is so, then let people meet it when they no longer love life."
>"..."
"I would suggest instead that you teach people to better understand death, but I feel that is not your intentions. There is no need for men to fight death for their love."
>"..."
"Consider your own love. I'm sure she has been waiting for you for a very long time."
>...You... misunderstand me, mortaaaaalllll...."

Neena 2011/12/29(Thu)20:06 No. 376081 ID: a9ba96
File 132521797632.jpg - (91.12KB , 540x767 , 94f593cd.jpg )

Torment raises his hand, and another huge statue rises behind the collapsed wall by his throne.

>"I say once more... I was an artist in life... so too am I in deeeeaaathhh... and all good artists convey.... a message... through their traaaaadddeee... I will guarantee to you that my intention... is to help humans better understand death... though my aaarrrttt...."
"I... don't understand."
>"Of course not... These statues... these sculptures... Built as an empty tribute to sorrow after her death... in time I found them to convey no purpose... They are simply rock and stoooooonnneee... But it was the realization that she had been lost forever that inspired me to make death my new art.... It was the realization that it all ends.... It all goes away. It all seizes to exist, and in the end it's forgotten. Washed away by tiiiimmmeee.... No, life is not torment because people suffer in it.... life is torment because time washes it and all of its accomplishments away, and living though it ignorant to that fact is just as much a torment as suffering through it..... Stone is simply stone, no matter how it's carved, but a body, a corpse, carries a simple, poignant, elegant message.... The only message that matteeerrrrsss..... It. All. Ends. "
"You can't really..."
>"And in time, I can perfect my art. I can line the streets with my art. People will resist it at first, just like people have resisted.... all great artistssss... but if I can teach this realm the futility of their lives... I can spare this realm a million more heartbreaks, a billion more goodbyes, a trillion more heartfelt farewells to that which they loveeeeddd... because they will see the only thing of value in life... they will not struggle to save their loves, because they will come... to understand there is only one way they will not lose theeeemmm... they will come to me crying, "O torment! Free me from life's woes! Let me pose as your knife slides across my neck! let me be... yoooorrr... aaaaaarrrrrrtttttttt....."

Dragons of wind and flame, this guy sure is something. I mean, I feel kinda bad for him. It's almost depressing to see someone with this little hope left for anything. But at the same time, the whole "kill everything" thing makes it hard to feel much sympathy for him, and I get the feeling that he writes a lot of really bad poetry about black ravens and darkness in his free time.

We're getting him worked up though. Keep pressing like that, and we should buy Samon enough time to charge the throne without getting obliterated with necromantic magics.

Let's just hope we don't push mister suffering artist here enough that he decides to obliterate me with necromantic magics instead to demonstrate this postmodern death art thing he has going.

just because something ends does not mean it its pointless. you your self must admit this, otherwise you would have no reason to rail against suffering and heartbreak. while you would indeed spare the world much suffering with you art, you would also deny it much joy. who are you to say the suffering you would spare the world is greater than the joy you would deny it?

>>376081
'So is it about your art then? Your art, a mere reflecting of 'your' suffering. How can you deny others their art? All those stories all those tales overwritten by the same bland ending, a veil of gray penned by the same dull author. What monotony are you trying to pass off as 'artistic'?'

>>376081
"You, too, will end, and your work forgotten by history.
You can't retrieve a soul of the dead, but can you tell me where it goes? Is there an afterlife? What is its nature?"

I think this guy sounds totally legit. You should find someone to make an art project out of. Someone who hasn't ended yet. Someone evil and ancient. Someone like... SUPREMICUS no the lich.

Here is something that should confuse him:
"If everything all ends, what of liches? You talk of how time washes away all even as you sit before us as a lich, a mortal who has escaped the reach of ages and death. Doesn't your very existence stand as a testament against your 'message'?"

>>376081
Alright. So on one hand he is just another lib-arts bleeding-heart faggot, and on the other he's a goddamned lich. I can deal.

Still, while Entropy IS true, ask him of magic, of that living energy unbound by time that has even freed him from the mortal coil.
Those Beyond know of a world of pure entropy where all is truly meaningless, but not this world! This world IS eternal, if not in this form, than in another! His message is false, and his art is now purposeless.

But, just in case, ask of him if he knows of anything beyond the bounds of your reality that would end all things, some sort of Azathoth or Nyarlethotep-like being.

Magic certainly SEEMS like it breaks all the rules, but does it truely? In fact, ask Supremicus of this, as well. All scientific inquiry needs multiple respectable sources to verify it, and if anyone would know such dark secrets, Supremicus would.

This is important, because our 'angle' is dependent on what truths of reality we can bend to our will.

Neena 2012/01/15(Sun)14:31 No. 379982 ID: a9ba96
File 132666669968.jpg - (174.11KB , 743x767 , 86192bc7.jpg )

"You say that your work reflects that all things end, but aren't you, yourself, undying? You manipulate the forces of magic to keep yourself alive, caring not of age or time. You say all things die, but what of magic, which you have used to shake your mortal coil - and what of you, the Lich? If both these have ends, then there is nothing to keep your art, and its message, from dying as well."

Neena 2012/01/15(Sun)14:32 No. 379983 ID: a9ba96
File 132666677166.jpg - (160.94KB , 952x768 , ffff5bfe.jpg )

"And if they don't, then is it not hypocritical that the lesson that all must die be taught by one who does not?"

>"Foolish moooorttaaaalll.... The answer... is simple! I am..."

Neena 2012/01/15(Sun)14:33 No. 379984 ID: a9ba96
File 132666682226.jpg - (161.69KB , 952x768 , 1b6460e1.jpg )

...

Did... did he really never consider that?

>"I am..."

Neena 2012/01/15(Sun)14:36 No. 379985 ID: a9ba96
File 132666699281.jpg - (100.08KB , 658x768 , 642616fd.jpg )

Samon begins to approach the throne.

I hope this works... because I'm not sure if a concentrated Lich or an enraged Lich is a scarier thought...


>"HYAAAAGH!"

Springing from his daze, The Lich lets out an agonized cry and leaps forwards from his throne. Samon readies his blade, but swings around as he notices the corpse of the catfolk warrior begin to rise.