Alright, let's see. Things that can be used to our advantage:
+fire
+uneven ground
+our mount
+meatshields (are they too high to duck behind?)

Ride him down if you're still mounted. If that's not viable, at least try to take the higher ground. Make your priority surviving this battle. If Black Fang dies it will be a setback, but not so much as a crippling wound to you would be. It's possible that your patron town would be willing to treat Fang's wounds once you have him under your control.

>>81877
Ready your weapon, and keep it pointed at Black Fang no matter what.
"So, are you nearly as tough as Red Fang?"

Wait for him to swing first and dodge, while he's off balance due to having huge and unwieldy weapon stab him.

Also try taunting him to anger him into making mistakes.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)07:09 No. 82136 ID: fb5d8e
File 125933455799.png - (67.43KB , 700x700 , B37.png )

I have the advantage with my reach, but I think his blade will go straight through my spear. I'd rather not risk losing my weapon in this situation.
With my mount I also have superior charging speed, but again there is a downside: I won't be able to react and dodge as fast due to having to wait for my mount to respond.

I will use a rush to taunt him into striking me, then strike his shoulder when his blade it making its swing.

"So, are you nearly as tough as Red Fang?"
"Red Fang! Now there's a name.. He gave me this pretty gash on my eye--"

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)07:09 No. 82137 ID: fb5d8e
File 125933456313.png - (63.14KB , 700x700 , B38.png )

"--but that was a long time ago!"

He swings: This is my chance.

"ROOAARRGH! WHAT?!"

"Why haven't you taken revenge for that eye, eh? What man would let such a disgrace go unpunished."
(Here's to hoping he won't connect the dots and use the same logic on us.)

Recover back to a save distance and ready yourself for a new attack. If he decides to swing at you horizontally, jump off your steed rather than take the blow.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)12:19 No. 82194 ID: fb5d8e
File 125935317549.png - (57.75KB , 700x700 , B39.png )

I've disabled Black Fang's left arm.. but it looks like he's using his momentum to make the swing a full circle!

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)12:19 No. 82195 ID: fb5d8e
File 125935317884.png - (63.74KB , 700x700 , B40.png )

I can't make my mount duck this fast.
I set my feet on the saddle and jump up, just in time to feel the cleaver passing under me.

lean back and bring the spear over your head across his face,then spur your mount to put some distance between you after doing that.

>>82195
Ridder: dat ass?

Land on mount back to front, make a second slash to that scar, then get the feck out, that will do for a taunt

we need to concentrate on the fight

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)13:05 No. 82206 ID: fb5d8e
File 125935593656.png - (51.89KB , 700x700 , B41.png )

If I'm going to spin my spear around to strike at his face--

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)13:05 No. 82207 ID: fb5d8e
File 125935594031.png - (97.28KB , 700x700 , B42.png )

--I won't need to run away.

>>82207
Is your blade at his throat now? It seems the fight is over. Press it meaningfully against his flesh.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)15:26 No. 82249 ID: fb5d8e
File 125936437876.png - (67.81KB , 700x700 , B43.png )

I silently press the blade against his neck. No words are necessary to claim my victory.

"..BUAHAHAHAHA!!!"

Black Fang bursts out in roaring laughter.
My mount fidgets nervously.

"It has been years since anyone.. anyone has laid a scratch on me! Sir knight! I am but your humble apprentice. Guide me along the path to ultimate swordsman!"

Fist pump mentally. Shake on it. Treat the beastly warrior with respect. He may be an underling and a monster but we've seen what happens when respect is not paid.
Besides, you don't want to piss him off. This isn't the kind of guy you want turning traitor down the line.

Once that's out of the way, let him in on more of your plans and ask him if he has any insight on a place nearby you can occupy -- an abandoned fort as previously considered, or perhaps a den of evil that may need cleansing first.

Whatever the case, we need us a base, and then we'll retrace our steps to the place where that one goblin's case puts her local disgrace on the other's displace, and curses every trace of her squarish-shaped face. With two lackeys on brace we'll present them our case and by good God's grace we'll soon make our chase towards the evil one's space.

>>82251
But should we do it with haste?

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)15:58 No. 82258 ID: fb5d8e
File 125936633340.png - (78.17KB , 700x700 , B44.png )

I hold out my hand. He takes it and we exchange firm shakes.

"Black Fang, I will pursue the honor of being your master to the best of my abilities. May our future together be long and fruitful."

Black Fang seems to be silenced by this. He holds onto my hand. Not as a challenge, but simply in thought.

"I ain't ever had someone treat me so formally.. ..I won't disappoint you, master."

He shakes my hand again.

"Now then, let me level with you. I am raising an army to fight the man operating out of the dungeon to the west--"
"That's Red Fang's territory."
"No longer. Red Fang has been slain by its current occupant."
"Hmrr.."
"I am in the middle of forging alliances with a goblin village: I will need your help with that."
"Just let me know what I gotta do."
"I need you to put an end to a logging operation of their rival village. They're getting too close to comfort.. But, I need you to refrain for killing anyone."
"..Hmmrr.. Understood.. but.. that isn't much of a fight.."
"Neither is killing weak lumberjacks, Black Fang. The real battles come later."
"Hmrr.. Got it. I'll show them a good.. a good good time."
"Good. But before that: Do you know of any suitable locations that we can turn into our base of operations?"
"Nah. Architecture ain't my turf. I deal in blades."
"I understand. Let us be off then."

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)16:17 No. 82264 ID: fb5d8e
File 12593674339.png - (124.18KB , 700x700 , B45.png )

The logging operation scatters without fail. Black Fang seems to have made a reputation around here already.
No injuries, minimum damage. Mission successful.

terrorizing innocent goblins eh? Looking pretty villain there, Ridder.

>>82265

Well, let's head out to those Elven Ruins then right? Maybe we can set up a base there.

>>82264
You did what you had to do. Return to the village, but inform Black Fang he should stay out of sight. They did tell you to keep him away, after all.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)16:33 No. 82270 ID: fb5d8e
File 125936841434.png - (61.66KB , 700x700 , B46.png )

"The deed is done. Your woods have been returned to you."

The village elder rubs his hands nervously.

"Y-yes.. My scouts reported.. Black Fang chasing them off. Does that mean you.. you are controlling him?"
"That is correct. Black Fang is now under my command."
"Oh.. well.. We will be glad to be your ally. We'll keep tabs on the next village to make sure they won't be able to aid your enemy. Is.. Is that enough?"
"That will do. Thank you, honored elder. Now I must leave to take care of other things. I will get in touch when things have settled down."
"You will be taking.. Black Fang along with you, yes?"
"That is correct."
"Oh.. Oh good. Have a safe journey, outsider-- I mean, beloved ally."

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)16:50 No. 82272 ID: fb5d8e
File 125936945252.png - (85.70KB , 700x700 , B47.png )

So I understand that the elven ruins are the best location?
Looking at the map again, I see the merits in being close to several settlements. It may also be easier to cross through forest than steep mountain slopes.
Aggressive flora may still be a problem, however. I will need capable workers to restore the place and hopefully improve it.

I can travel north, rest at Sepia Town, and continue east to the forest. The travel itself will take less than a day, but that does not including the break.

That said, am I done in these woods?

>>82272
Take a look a the Kobold Village, they are shy but I think it would do well to check in while we are here.

>>82272
We'll need some cheap labor for now if we're to set up a true base of operations.
The kobolds here in these woods should do nicely.
Perhaps we shall learn something more of this mysterious 'Boss' as well.

>>82272
Going to the village with Black Fang might be off putting. Let's head to the ruins for now.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)17:13 No. 82286 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937082392.png - (89.86KB , 700x700 , B48.png )

Ah yes, I haven't investigated the kobold village yet. And indeed, I have heard that kobolds are dedicated craftsman. Hopefully there will be one who can help me restore the ruins.
I'd rather trust a kobold than someone from Sepia Town, that blight on our culture.

With Black Fang's directions I find a fast route to the nearest kobold village. According to my squire it is also the largest kobold settlement in the area.
However.. it is eerily quiet.

>>82286
They might be terrified of Black Fang. Try to assure the kobolds that he's no harm.

>>82286
I hear they like the sound of gold.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)17:27 No. 82305 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937166867.png - (90.71KB , 700x700 , B49.png )

"There is no danger! We mean no harm!"

There is no response.

"No dice, master Ridder."

>>82305
Tell them that you just want some questions answered.

>>82305
Go knock on a door I suppose.
Tell them you're looking to hire some help.

>>82305
Ask Black Fang to step back. Take off your weapons and strip down to show that you are completely unarmed.

>>82305
Just tell them you're looking to hire a worker or two; gold usually brings them out of hiding.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)17:49 No. 82317 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937298033.png - (48.82KB , 700x700 , B50.png )

I dismount and hand Black Fang my spear. He nods, stepping back by himself.
I knock on one of the doors.

"Excuse me, I am looking to hire help and perhaps ask a few questions."

There is no response.
I knock again.

"Excuse m--"
"Yes yes, we interested, but hiding now, okay? Please be leaving. No attracting attention to this one's house."

The kobold looks around cautiously.

>>82317
Ask him what's got him so spooked.

>>82317
inquire what he's so paranoid of.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)18:00 No. 82327 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937365199.png - (32.29KB , 700x700 , B51.png )

"What has got you so spooked?"
"This one hear parent say 'Not go there' but little one say 'Will go there', then little one went up and up and now noone go up anymore.."

He looks up and points to a door halfway up a nearby tree.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)18:00 No. 82328 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937365762.png - (57.33KB , 700x700 , B52.png )

It radiates darkness.

>>82328
Oh wow, that looks awesome. Investigate!

>>82328
Ask how long it has been there.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)18:05 No. 82335 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937394298.png - (23.87KB , 700x700 , B53.png )

I don't know how I can get up there. I'm build for flat plains, not treeclimbing.

"How long has it been there?"
"Weeks.. Month maybe. You remove for us?"

>>82335
Say that you will try, if there is a way to get there.

>>82335
Get Black Fang.

Fastball Special.

>>82335
That wouldn't be the same house that the Boss from the east visited?

Investigate! Hopefully we can end this blight on the kobold village and earn their allegiance.

"What happened at that house, master Kobold?"

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)18:16 No. 82342 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937459766.png - (83.52KB , 700x700 , B54.png )

"What happened at that house, master Kobold?"
"This one doesn't know. Hear little one find forbidden shrine in goblin land. Now all village scared."
"I'll see what I can do. Black Fang, if you'd please."
"Aye, sir."

Fly in a more hard-boiled manner.
Also, DYNAMIC ENTRY

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)18:36 No. 82347 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937575978.png - (132.04KB , 700x700 , B55.png )

Black Fang's aim is spot on. I manage a clean entry through the door, or rather what used to be a door.
The darkness hits me like a thick blanket. It almost feels as if it would have stopped me had I not gained considerable momentum.
Even so, it feels strangely welcoming.

I hear a young girl's soft singing.

"... wicked power tore asunder
And with this cruel and fateful blunder
Cast her to a world of wonder
Would she e'er see home again..."

I won't deny this is getting to me. My heart is beating in my throat.

>>82347
Cough politely and take a look around.

>>82347
Grab the girl and exit, dynamically.

We need to return with someone who knows magic. This shit is too deep for you.

Unless you're feeling like a six million dollar Indiana Jones, in which case grab something pointy (you did bring a weapon didn't you?) and smash it at the dead centre of that disk.

>>82347
What is that she's molding? Wax?

oh lawdy I see some boldbutt

>>82347
Oh...
Oh god.
Ridder. You've stumbled upon something far greater than you know.
I fear she may already be too powerful for you...
Steel youself.

and lo, we get the inevitable Ruby reference in every single quest.

BE CAREFUL DON'T ACCIDENTALLY SLIP ON ALL THE WAX AND FALL INTO HER

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)19:01 No. 82361 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937730037.png - (114.13KB , 700x700 , B56.png )

No need to delay in this horrible place. I have to take the girl out of here.
I reach out to grab her, fighting the darkness' resistance.

"And so th-- Eeehh?!"

She's spotted me and jumps to her feet. Startled, she drops a wax statuette to the floor and stumbles away from me.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)19:01 No. 82363 ID: fb5d8e
File 12593773091.png - (211.37KB , 700x700 , B57.png )

She slips.

"Mister?"

>>82363
Ridder, you have no idea what the fuck you have just done. Nice job breaking it, hero.

JUMP IN AFTER HER LIKE THE BIG DAMN HERO YOU ARE

>>82363
Oh no. You've got to try and save her!

Oh shi-

Make a quick grab for her, real quick!

Save the FUCK out of her, failing that, get your ass in that portal.

>>82363
JUMP IN AFTER HER DAMNIT

Oh god! GO IN AFTER HER!

A ND so i t has cometo p ass t h e WHEEL s of f a te t ur n on a nd o n e TALE LEAdsinto t h enext

First: please don't tell me she's naked.

Second: grab her or fall in trying.

Third: yell out at black fang as you do so.

Fourth: yell "Cjopaze Fhtagn" as you fall through. Who knows, it may keep you from being completely obliterated upon arrival by the sinister fleshgod, the Barbed Wheel, he who sees all, knows all, and is.....

(continues babbling on inanely)

Oh ffff-

Shit just got real, Ridder. You have no idea what you just caused.

and then kobold was a skullking

well, neither do we really.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)19:14 No. 82381 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937805382.png - (43.51KB , 700x700 , B58.png )

I have to go after her! I stretch my legs for a great leap..

..and hit my head hard against the wall.

The darkness is gone. There is just a crudely drawn circle on the wall and a whole bunch of burning candles around me.

I couldn't save the girl, but at least the rest of the village is safe.

..I'm sorry, little girl.

Wasn't the Skullking a Kobold?

Well, we know what's happening well in the future...

>>82381
And thus the barbed wheel of fate turns ever on. I think it's best to report back with the sad news.

>>82381
Well, at least we didn't end the world in a TIME PARADOX.

Examine the circle on the wall with your third eye and- oh wait...

Get out of the cave and return to the village.

>>82381
Very well.
There is nothing more you can do here but inform the rest of the kobolds what has happened.

hah ah ah aha haha hH AAAAHAHAHHH hahhhahahh hh hh hh hh h hhh hhh hhh hh h h hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

>>82381
Erase the circle so that the shrine can never become active again.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)19:24 No. 82392 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937866025.png - (63.22KB , 700x700 , B59.png )

As I work my way down the tree I notice a crowd has gathered around the base. All look up with wonder: Some at me, some at the door I just left.
I better announce the loss right away.

"The darkness is gone, but.. I could not save the little one!"

>>82392
Hang head, press palms together, and prophesy the rise of someone called the Skullking.
Kneel to put you at the same height as your hosts.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)19:27 No. 82397 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937884947.png - (27.37KB , 700x700 , B60.png )

The kobold clicks his tongue in disagreement.

"Not fail to save.. Little one dead for long time. You succeed.. You save village. Thank you, stranger."

>>82397
She was dead? But you saw her! Tell them that.

Ia Ia my fellow... Ia Ia indeed.

Investigate the wax statuet- oh darn already left the room :(

>>82397
Descend. Ask, "What had she done to become dead to you?"

Say he's welcome.

Also ask what the kobold knows about that little one.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)19:36 No. 82408 ID: fb5d8e
File 125937937594.png - (25.80KB , 700x700 , B61.png )

"You're welcome, sir. It is but my duty. What do you know of the little one?"
"One day little one eat bad mush.. Then little one so sick.. Little one going to die. But man comes. Say he will help. Give little one strange drink.. Little one look better but.. now acting different. Bleed alot. Bleed more than hunted animal. Little one no longer little one... Man also take two villagers to home in east rocks. Never see again."

>>82408
...boss...

Oh
FUCK.

>>82408
It's that same man, the one who razed the village. His evil extends here as well, and we will never know the full repercussions of what just occured. Your resolve should be steeled yet more, for his defeat cannot come swiftly enough.

Tell them you know the man of whom they speak, and you oppose him in his conquest. Ask them if they can spare anyone to assist you.

Ridder 2009/11/27(Fri)19:53 No. 82420 ID: fb5d8e
File 125938039568.png - (81.21KB , 700x700 , B62.png )

Indeed. There is no other way. It must be.. the 'Boss'.
Signs of his evil reign continue to surface. I can no longer see this as a simple quest: The complete destruction of his evil has become my life's goal.

"Sir."
"..Y-yes?"
"I am raising an army to oppose that man. I need craftsman to restore and improve a stronghold. Could you round up any volunteers, please?"
"O.. ofcourse. R-right away."

Now then: What kind of men (or women) do I need? I better not recruit more than two.

>>82420
Make sure you include family time for your minions.

>>82420
Looken pretty familiar there Ridder, mind if we call you little boss?

>>82420
Hot damn, Ridder. They should cover leftover food with you when they put it in the fridge.

A sexy female ranger/hunter and a squat manly repairbold.

You have muscle, but now you need brains.

A wood turner or a carpenter might come in handy, since time is pressing and wood is easily worked on.

Some kind of herbalist or apothecary is also advisable. He or she will have knowledge of the surrounding enviroment and can provide medicine in emergency cases.

>>82420
Looking pretty intense there, Ridder.

Right now we lack a source of food, and a way of making money. Farming, hunting, carpentry, blacksmithing, mining, plant gathering and alchemy all come to mind as being useful.

They should also preferably be skilled in some form of fighting, to help with defense if the time comes.

My word.

That very well could have been the Skullking.

Ridder 2009/11/28(Sat)04:26 No. 82562 ID: fb5d8e
File 125941119429.png - (58.57KB , 700x700 , B63.png )

Well thought! A herbalist and a carpenter will turn the forest's vegetation from an obstacle into an advantage.

I find two skilled and particulary eager kobolds who wish to join the fight.
One is Iesgip, who has great knowledge of plants and how to cultivate them, and some skill at tracking and trapping.
The other is Nakraska, a humble but capable carpenter and lumberjack, who is also able to craft simple weapons and tools in times of need.

They're willing to join me right away.

Good. Strike a heroic pose and head out to the elven ruins. Once we've set up camp we'll come back for our tinker.

End of chapter 5 Ridder 2009/11/28(Sat)05:24 No. 82566 ID: fb5d8e
File 125941468126.png - (99.45KB , 700x700 , B64.png )

Good idea.
Iesgip can deal with aggressive flora and provide food, Nakraska can begin work on renovating, with Black Fang to help with heavy lifting and protecting the base.
When a room has been prepared I will head back to pick up my tinkerer and her equipment.

Now we head for Sepia Town. I am desperate need of some rest.