Sparing is good for both of us Aira. Its excellent practice and good for teamwork so we know how the other one fights.

Do some sparing and explor the camp later. You want to know where everything is in case of emergency. Never know when assassins after your bounty or a wave of undead might get deposited in your lap. Knowing the terrain will save your ass in that situation.

What do your armor pieces look like? Do they fit nicely and have you had a chance to practice with them? Get some blood drawn on the maw so people know to fear you?

>>"You should at least spar someone good." Aira continues.
I'm pretty sure if you were bad, you wouldn't have made it this far.

We're probably hard pressed to find someone on Fen's level, but it's not as if Aira is bad either.

>It's mail day, so anyone still around here is waiting at their camp for delivery.
Did you already get your mail, or were you going to check after the rush was over?

Join a fight club.

Ask if Holly could get your mail for you while you spar. If that's not allowed, just play chess while in line.

Any new missions expected to come up this week?

You still look a bit banged up, Fen. Looks like Holly's digs have gotten better, though?

If you're this bored, I assume you've been catching up with everything someone of your rank, and at least the next one up if not the one after that too, is supposed to know?

>>881385
Forget that, FORM a fight club. Why just gain experience when you can get bet money too? The time is right too, everyone's going to have money burning holes in their pockets!

>>881391
why not.

IT’S HAPPENIIIIIIIIIING!!! 8D 8D 8D

“... It makes no difference if what you say about yourself is true, Aira. It would just mean that you have more to gain from the experience than I. This is fine by me.” Get up, and motion her to follow. “It is said that to teach is the truest test, after all. Or will you prove yourself wrong?”

Hmm. Zall must be, understandably, busy and unable to enact his plans the way he wants to at the moment, but once he's freed up he probably intends get around to it right away. I see no reason why he'd keep you waiting near camp otherwise and probably piss of Sir Orjin with do-nothing tasks.

It gets you extra downtime at least, and on the one hand, downtime would usually be good for getting personal stuff done, but on the other hand, there's not much to do down here but train, and it sounds like that's getting a little stale. Let's hope Zall's plans don't get delayed too long... but in the meantime you might want to change things up a bit.

Grab Aira for sparring - and as she appears to be down on herself and struggling to relearn to fight with only one eye, make up a similar handicap for yourself - an eyepatch that forces you to learn to deal with a new blind zone. This way you can teach each other the tricks for dealing with it - and here Aira should have a head start on you.

Speaking of, how's her eye coming along? Is there hope for an inexpensive recovery?

You could also try training both of your mana sensing - since that's independent of eyesight the benefits are doubly so for Aira. And hey, we didn't think of this earlier, but you've received some moderately strong magical gear now. Couldn't you use that to test your ability to distinguish between magical stuff and not by placing it at various distances, or hiding it within a room and having the other try to search for and find it?

>helmet and greaves done

Neat. How's the quality and fit turning out, by the way? Is the whole set complete now? Oh, and we went with the established high-quality smith and not the up-and-coming novice, right?

>mail day

Intend to check on your mail when it arrives.

>New Equipment
How'd it all turn out?

>Mail Day
Anything you know of coming for you?

>>881409

Oh right, should've double-checked the Quest Staitics. Full armor set is supposed to be done by the 65th.

Come on Aria, don't be a slack. You and me both need to improve your sword fighting. It is important as well becouse we are in the same team, and we need to know each other on the fiel, how we react while fighting. Rest assured, i will probably ask Orjin for a sparring session eventually, but now he would probably send me off to do something else.

>>881374
Awesome! Time to have a good time improving our friend's skills and becoming a better teacher.

Also, that guy to your right has an eyepatch. He must have a valuable skill or he wouldn't be kept around.

>>881445
...That's Aira you are talking about, in side profile. She's not off-screen.

Anyways... If it's a slow day and Aira doesn't want to spar, then there's no reason not to trawl the rumor mill a bit in case Holly knows anything useful.

Or just do the heavy armor exercise that Sir Orjin taught you.

Fen why have you not used your down time to seduce all the ladies here?

>>881374
>completion of my helmet and greaves.
Have you tried them on yet? How do they feel compared to what you were using before?

It’s been a while since we talked about it, but did we commission the entire armor or did we only get the helmet and greaves?

>>881445
I’m pretty sure the eyepatch person is Aira.

1/3 Fen 2018/04/29(Sun)07:03 No. 881472 ID: bfb318
File 152501060509.png - (19.85KB , 800x800 , 1039.png )

"Okay. You can receive mail, right?"
>"That's right, we have it set up like so I can get everyone's."

There are runners that deliver an individual's mail to their camp station, which in our case, is right here, in Holly's tavern that now looks like other tavern's I've seen in the empire. If we or Holly aren't around to pick up mail, it gets left at the mail station, and I hear it takes a long time to get mail from there. I'm expecting something from Cheese, so I want to get it immediately.

"It's good to see how the other fights anyway, if we keep going on missions together. If you were bad, you would be dead, and if you don't think you're good enough, then you just have more to gain from sparring."

Aira grunts. She may be hiding her frustration about how difficult it is to get used to fighting with her eyepatch. We've already done some sparring yesterday.

We've all gotten 10 gold each for successfully delivering a full set of antlers from the white worm. Some of us have been spending it better than others. Aira has used a small portion for a healer's guidance. A wizard would still be expensive, as apparently eye damage is more difficult to repair than a flesh wound. She decided to wait and see if her eye improves, and instead spent much of the money on custom armor.

"Aira, when we spar next, I can use an eyepatch and see if I can't give you any pointers."
>"Okay."
"Hm... Holly, are there fight clubs?"
>"... I'm not sure 'club' is the right word, but there are fighting rings. Don't bother with those, not yet. It's just gambling and nasty business, so don't bring that on yourself while down here. If you want to fight with like minded fighters... I can find a place, just give me time."
"Thank you. Aira, let's spar again."
>"Mail, first."
"Okay."

I continue training my mana sense. I've been doing so whenever I can afford the focus, along with exploring the base. Many people are calling it the Cranium, due to it being a dome structure at the top of the necromile. It was made with utility and storage in mind, which made it easy to take over for the army's purposes. The layout seems efficient, yet much of it looks the same, and with most buildings being enormous collections of inner rooms, the entire place is easy to get lost in. I've studied various escape routes in case I get attacked.

2/3 Fen 2018/04/29(Sun)07:03 No. 881473 ID: bfb318
File 152501061314.png - (33.27KB , 800x800 , 1040.png )

I think to myself while I wait for mail. It fits well and I'm happy with it so far. I'm glad I chose the high quality smith, even if it won't be another three weeks before I get the full set. I've worn it occasionally to get used to having it on, but I should start sparring with it.

I've gotten jokes from... pretty much everyone about how I keep ending up in the tavern with just Holly and Aira. I think rumors are getting spread behind my back, but I'm not sure what the big deal would be if the rumors were true. It isn't like the people spreading rumors know I'm going after Lily. I haven't seen the construct since she was taken in for questioning, but to see her without a purpose is just inviting complications.

>"Mail, Sir Orjin and his knights!" a mountain calls out in the building.
>"In here!" Holly calls.

3/3 Fen 2018/04/29(Sun)07:03 No. 881474 ID: bfb318
File 152501062110.png - (19.76KB , 800x800 , 1041.png )

Holly collects our mail, handing out the ones for those who are here and storing the rest.

There is a package from Cheese. I occasionally flip the paper to ask Holly help me read some of the words.

>Hi! I'm doing well, thank you for asking! Things are still chaotic at the Fence. Gauche really ramped up security around town, including and especially around himself. Anyway enough about stuff up here. I packaged a small drink from our mutual friend. I hope it reaches you safely, it's the same one you had before. Also, if you didn't find 15 gold in this package, then someone better be dead! It's a lot, so be careful with it, okay? If it's not there, well, I hope someone dies for it, because I did things that maybe someone didn't want me to do to send you it. Don't worry about it!
>Sooo... Garlic Soup's alive? He was my sibling, yes - family sibling that is, not blood sibling. He went missing over a decade ago, but sometimes mutants just go wander off to die on their own. It's polite among many of us, but I guess he'd rather try to shoot for the moon over just giving up and dying. He might even try and recruit you. And he'd mean what he says, too! Not to say you should do it.
>Then again, I might not know him that well anymore. 10 years is a long time. I guess it doesn't matter, he does have to die. If you get a chance to talk to him safely, please send him my regards and tell him we all miss him, even if he can't come back anymore.


In the package is 15 gold and an antidote. I accidentally let Holly and Aira see, though Aira has virtually no reaction.

>"Whoa." says Holly.
"I requested this over a week ago. I don't know how I would spend this much."
>"You can find a way, I'm sure. I'll put it in the bank for you."

There is also a letter from Zizi.

>Hey again bro! I sent a letter last week, and I completely forgot to tell you to write us back even if you don't think you have anything to say! If you already sent mail then this letter was pointless. Dump it, and keep writing every week!

I've already sent a letter back to Zizi, asking more direct questions about what he might know. He should be getting it soon, hopefully, since I paid some money to get a runner to deliver to him. He might know something about Momo. I'll attempt to remember to write him again like he asked later, in case I think of things I'd like to ask him during the next week.

Lastly, a an anonymous package with a thick pair of socks inside.
>Hey, this is your lazy guard friend turned hard worker. My new job's tough and immediately comes with a bad reputation, so I don't want friends or acquaintances to get associated with my line of work. I'm hoping you can guess who I am. It's surprisingly dangerous, not like you wouldn't know about that. So far I've avoided anything worse than getting spat on, although that's happened a lot so far. I'd talk about how you can at least face your enemies, but Krix has a knife with your name on it, so you have to watch your back too. Please respond so I know I can have some faith in the mail system, and maybe I'll talk more about it later if you're willing.
>By the way, they gave me nice socks since it gets cold down here even in summer. I only need the shoes to keep the grime off my feet, and you could use the warmth more. They should last awhile.

Inspect socks for secrets.

Then write a response to each of them before you go eyepatch training.

To Cheese:

Thanks a bunch for the stuff. Everything got here ok so we can trust in the mail at least for the moment. I fought Garlic and managed to really piss off some necromancers by staying alive and ruining lots of there plans. Will tell Garlic hi If I see him again.

I met a southern mage named Momo. Some old girlfriend of my brother who has a beef with the empire. The necromancers gave her access to there power batteries and she tried to throw everything at me. She manged to create a clone of lily after casting a nightmare spell? I really need to know more about how magic works because that was very confusing. The clone is off somewhere with the officers now.

Anyway take good care of yourself Cheese. If you remember our mutual guard friend from the trial see if you can assist him in staying alive and well. And thank you so much for everything. Hopefully will be able to visit after killing all the necromancers. Love Fen.


To Zizi:

The more I live in the outside world the more I realize that you are either the best or worst brother ever. If I keep running into your crazy ex's that I have never heard about I will start leaning more to the latter. Not much to report since the last letter just want to keep in touch. Will probably be involved big time in the final attacks down here so am getting as much practice in as as I can. Tell everyone I love them and am doing great. If you want to send word to Momo do so quick cause there is a decent chance I will kill her at some point. Any tips for sensing mana or using magic? If it turns out you are a secret mage I would not be surprised. Love Fen.


To Sock guard:

Thanks for the Socks. Have ran into a few squads of idiots from our mutual warlord friend. They did not make it far. Will stay on the look out though. If you need anything feel free to ask our mutual dairy themed friend. I am sad to say that your bow was lost during a mission to destroy a giant frost worm death field. But might be able to track it down now that we cleared that out. Anyways we are close to what looks to be the final push down here. Will keep in touch. Love Fen.

>>881475
This sounds good but instead of fighting with an eye patch you should try fighting blindfolded. Sir Orjin basicly told you to practice like this in >>829221 where he said
>>”"You idiots can't sense magic well enough to dodge punches with your eyes shut, can you?” .
So you should start getting your blind fighting practice in becouse you don’t know when it’ll come in handy, plus it’ll help with your mana sense training.

Fen I can't help but notice that the girl without the huge bounty on her head and no warlord kill squads after her is wearing armor and you are basically naked.

You need to work on your assassin paranoia levels. Safe spots like the bar and the bathroom are the best places to kill someone.

Write some responses to those letters and go blindfold it up to train with Aira.

As for the jokes you might be after Lily but there are plenty of cute girls right here that like you and owe you there lives. Pretty sure kobolds are not horribly monogamous so everyone probably thinks you are hanging out with your harem.

>She may be hiding her frustration about how difficult it is to get used to fighting with her eyepatch.
There's a possible handicap for training or sparring. Practice with different injuries and learn how to cope in case it comes up later. (Cover an eye, plug your ears, bind an arm or a leg, etc).

It wouldn't exactly be fair to practice with Aira while assuming the same handicap as her, though. Real life won't be that kind, and I doubt she'll be able to avoid getting into a real fight before she's healed up.

>In the package is 15 gold and an antidote.
That means Cheese is still in close contact with the other mutants, at least. That vial might have traveled from Erja Nokol to Turtle's Hideaway and back.

>By the way, they gave me nice socks since it gets cold down here even in summer. I only need the shoes to keep the grime off my feet, and you could use the warmth more. They should last awhile.
That's... suspicious as all heck. Examine the socks. Did Moss hide something in them?

>letters
How long do we have till the next time mail is shipped out? We want to keep in contact with people, but we might want to wait for something new to happen before writing the next batch. Presumably Fen's already sent messages on recent events.

I wonder if you should try sparring with Holly some time? She was in the army. I know she's missing a leg and all but there are a lot of injuries that will disable a limb or two even just temporarily, so it might be worth getting in a little practice with things like fighting with one of your legs tied up or an arm tied down or even with your tail curled up or around so your balance is off. I assume you've been practicing using your sword with both hands. That can fit in with fighting with one eye, too.

yeah, I have to agree about the armor. If you got attacked/undead broke in right now you wouldn't be in sooo much shit from enemy forces along with your allies for not having it on.

Investigate socks in private, palm the vial and hope that Holly was distracted by the pile of money you just acquired and won't remember seeing the vial.

>>881475
This sounds perfect. I would argue that Fen isn't that sassy, but he should start get a sassy attitude, so go right ahead.

>>881489
Well, given the fact that Fen has shown some skill in regards killing people that try to kill him, before and after joining the army, i would like to think that people are taking him more serious. If we get "lucky", people more competent will start to go after him, and no some potato heads. That said, he should start pay more atention and develope a sence of selfawareness. He is an assassin, after all. Kind of.

>>881474
Check the socks for secrets. Also, take the gold to the bank ASAP. Also, did the Knight Commander want to know about your universal antidote? I forget.

Poor Aira seems a little demotivated. She's racking down on herself, saying you don't have to help her, answering in monosyllables and doesn't even react to the sight of a sudden pile of gold. Did the wizard mention the range in gold it might cost to get her eye fixed? Is the price of fixing it that's got her so down? Or is there something else going on?

>Equipment question

Did we end up returning any of the gear we were given for our commando raid on the Frost Worm, or does Fen still have enchanted arrows and stuff?

>Letters

Get Aira and Holly to help you write a few letters in response. Remember that the army is probably going to be reading these letters, both incoming and outgoing, so there's a limit to what you should say directly. Mentioning the simulacrum is probably out since it's not exactly common knowledge that Shup's fiancee has a doppleganger now.

To Cheese:

- You are glad to hear that she, and also Sir Gauche, remain well and safe. Is there special cause for concern about their safety? Offer thanks for the coin - that should be enough - and the information on Garlic Soup. If she could include a a description or a sketch of how they used to look in her next letter you'd appreciate it, since you haven't actually met them in person, only through possessed undead.

- Relate your experiences and give her the gist of what is going on. Of mutant note is the other necromancer called 'Death Carrot'. Would she know of them? Additonally, has she heard of this southern wizard Momo 'The Conjurer of Nightmares'? Apparently she would've been active in the Empire around the time your brother was in the army.

- Verify that Krix is sending down desperate bounty hunters and that getting tarred for the offense of trying to kill you does not appear to be a deterrent. Tell her to pass along word if she gets wind of the Warlord doing anything else - like starting to send actual competent people.

- She may have noticed the legibility of your letters of late. You're currently borrowing the skills of a friend who has proven themselves quite dependable. They will be passing along your belongings to Cheese should you die or disappear down here, since apparently planning on dying is a thing.

- Wish her well and best of luck with mending Fence, from her barbarian friend.

To Zizi:

- You're still fine and things are going about as well as they could, you think You've lost some aquaintances, but you expected as much out of war, and you're starting to earn a name for yourself outside of being a gold noble's killer.

- Say that tales of strangeness in Erja Nokol are not unfounded and relate some of the more fantastical things you've seen.

- Mention pointedly that you met Zizi's 'feathered girl' during your getaway from the clash and ended up splashing her with some burning oil to drive her off. She seemed disappointed Zizi hadn't even mentioned her. You are equally disappointed someone who could conjure up your worst nightmare failed to make an appearance in Zizi's tales.

- Apparently your worst nightmare is unreciprocated love. Southern magic is strange stuff.

- Tell them you love them and miss them, but that you do not regret leaving home. It's been strange and different, and at times difficult, but it has also been good and interesting. You've learned a lot.

To Moss:

- Letter arrived fine, gift included. You can appreciate the socks as it's certainly been cold down here - and then some - although it almost sounds preferable to the kind of heat he gets to deal with. You sympathize and wish there was more you could do for him. Share some of your experiences and stories, but try to leave it vague, as if the respondent isn't you, but some soldiery acquaintance. You don't know if someone on Moss' end is reading Moss' letters, after all.

- Say that you've already had a run-in with a very blunt knife that was so badly handled that it ended up in the tar. You'll stay on your toes, however, in case Krix sharpens the next one.

- Report that you've lost the bow he borrowed you in a skirmish. You'll still repay him - in fact, you've done well enough that if he needs some spending money you can pay it down. ((We technically still owe Moss 40 silver - or 1 gold - for the bow that we got way back in Thread 2.))

- Wish him best of luck and that you hope to see him again someday. You'll owe him a drink for the socks at the very least.

>>881475
I don't think "sock guard" is friends with Cheese. Probably best not to imply that.

>>881538
I think you're crossing into TMI, there. We do want to share essential information our allies, and not neglect them either, but you have to account for the fact the army might be reading our mail, or it might be intercepted by others. Don't want to go giving out all the details like "exactly how and why someone's complicated southern magic backfired". I don't think it would cheer moss up to hear what happened to his bow, or our plans on playing him back (we should just do that at some point, not talk about it). Etc.

The other thing is everything we're putting on paper is something we're choosing to tell Holly. And while she's pretty solidly in our corner, some secrets might be best told to her before she finds them out in dictation?

>>881551

Winding back mentions of love and southern magic would be fine if it's an issue. I'd forgotten Holly doesn't know about Fen's ambitions to seek to marry Lily - I tried to keep it obtuse, but more discretion wouldn't hurt.

I find it likely that the army might know about Fen's infatuation by now, having interrogated Simu-Lily. And Holly DOES know about the existence of Simu-Lily, since she's reported in on her to Fen earlier, so whatever the story is on there being a copy of Lord Shup's fiancee around, she'd know it.

I had forgot the fact it might get intercepted by not-army types, though, which is a good point.

On paying Moss back, fair point. I'd suggest sending the money right away, excepting the minor worry that a Krix guard being sent money out of nowhere from Erja Nokol from might seem... worrying to anyone on Krix's team if it's actually intercepted. Maybe we'll just test the waters with 'safe' letters and give the money to him later.

>>881474
Whenever you write back to Moss, don’t address him as Moss, since he purposefully didn’t put his name on this letter. Instead, call him Sock Guard, and then remember to send him the silver you owe him for giving you his bow, along with an apology for taking so long to pay him for it.

1/3 Fen 2018/04/29(Sun)17:16 No. 881604 ID: bfb318
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I pocket the vial.

"Holly, I'd like help writing letters again."
>"Drink, please." says Aira, who I'll have to keep waiting again.
>"Sure, Fen, I'll start, but remember the next warp isn't until the 55th. Mail won't go out any sooner if you mail it now."
"Okay."

I'll tell Cheese thanks, and some light details about fighting Garlic's monster along with Momo, who created a clone of Lily. I need to know more about how magic works. She should take care of herself, and that our mutaul guard friend should be helped if she's in a position for it. Still, she should remain out of unnecessary trouble. I also ask if she can give me a sketch or more information on Garlic Soup, or if possible, Death Carrot. I reiterate I'd like her to be thorough. On top of that, I want to know if more reputable assassins after me. Holly tells me I probably shouldn't mention Lily yet, so I omit that. Instead, I end the letter saying I've written a will, as apparently the empire's people has plans for dying.

I consider asking her to verify she got my information about how Zall is trying to gather antidote making abominations, but she must have seen it if she otherwise got my letter. Zall has wanted to know more, but he didn't force me to give up information about how I got the antidote, and is instead simply trying to find those mutants himself to put into the army.

To Zizi, I ask him if he's a wizard, because he wouldn't have told me if he was. Also, that I've ran into Momo, a feathered girl, who claims that she has dated him. I would like to know more about this, please do it before I come home prematurely just to find out, because this is important to me. Also that I hope he does not mind if I lit her on fire with a bottle, but I may run into her again, so if he has anything to say to her, he can let me know. It will take awhile for me to get used to this mail system. I end the letter saying to tell everyone I love them, and that my worst nightmare is apparently unreciprocated love from the one who I love.

To Moss, who I call sock guard. I thank him for the socks, as it has been cold here. I sympathize with him, and wish there was more I could do, at least now. I also mention I do have to stay on my toes, as blades against me may be sharpened. We may be on a final push down here, and I will keep in touch and purchase him alcohol if he still enjoys bad tasting drinks when I see him next. Also, I think I paid him back for the item in question, but just in case I ask him to confirm that he received silver from me.

Now that I think about Krix's assassins, I should start wearing my armor all the time.

I move to the farther corner of the room and inspect the socks, as it is an odd, if thoughtful, gift. I unravel them and reach inside. There is a key, and a note that says 'floor 5.'

I also fill the letters in with details they don't already know that I can talk about, and keep it especially vague in Moss's sake.

2/3 Fen 2018/04/29(Sun)17:17 No. 881605 ID: bfb318
File 152504747050.png - (27.18KB , 800x800 , 1043.png )

If I think of anything I said in a letter I shouldn't have, I can have Holly change it.

I leave my gold with Mopp, who moves it to a more formal bank for us for safekeeping.

Aira and I go into one of the rooms adjacent to the tavern to spar. Holly will start being busy working the tavern, so she'll have to give us advice about fighting with one leg later. Since threats won't wear an eyepatch for Aira's sake, I first spar with her normally, with my helmet. My first idea ended up having too large of a gap for the eyes for anyone's recommendation for me, so I got something between that and what Veiza had, and made it colored to be more fitting for the remaining pieces.

"Are you feeling alright, Aira?"
>"Yes, you haven't been striking me hard."
"I mean that you have been quiet and subdued lately. You were talkative after getting the antlers."
>"This is how I normally am. The antler run was not usual. It won't get in the way of my fighting."

She's at least right about that. Despite looking demotivated, she is fighting well.

Then I do blindfold myself some for magic sense, as well as cover just one eye. We also emulate different injuries by binding each other's limbs in specific disabling ways so that we can only fight with one arm or one leg.

It's clumsy work, and we find that it's effective to simply tackle the person since their balance is so bad.

3/3 Fen 2018/04/29(Sun)17:18 No. 881606 ID: bfb318
File 152504748719.png - (53.83KB , 1200x800 , 1044.png )

On my turn, while my arm is tied up to emulate it missing, Aira pushes and pins me onto the wall right about the same time the door flies open. Orjin starts yelling before the door's more than halfway open.

"Fen and Aira!" The door slams on the wall. "I left you explicit orders to fuck the enemy up, so explain to me why you are in the process of fucking one another! Aira! Report!"

I am beginning to understand why these rumors have had weight lately.

>"Sir, I am almost fully used to fighting without my left eye."
"The hell happened to healing it?! Did Fen's dick poke it out or something?!"
>"Sir, I have not nor do I have any intention of exposing my eye - "
"Fen! Report!"

Practicing how to fight in all conditions sir.

"Sorry sir, couldn't locate the enemy or any fucks!"

>"Fen! Report!"
My nickname is "Red Maw" not "Eyefucker", sir.

>>881613
I like this.

>>881606
Functionally, we're prepping for fighting without limbs should we lose use of one, sir. A healed eye isn't going to do much if it goes out again, so resources and time were probably best spent on better gear and practicing with significant disadvantages in place.

>>881606
"Training how to fight in injured condition, sir!" After being shot in the foot and Aira was shot in the eye and Holly losing a leg we're all trying to improve to the point where suffering a critical wound like that doesn't impede combat functionality.

Sir, we are simulating combat with missing or unusable parts of our body. There is a chance that we might be injured in mid battle and it might be a good to know how to respond in such scenarios. We have been fighting in the best conditions, but it could happen that that scenario is not posible and we should be prepared for it. Aira's hurt eye is a good exapmple. She basicly has a blind spot, easy to take advantage of.
At the same time we are lerning how the other one fights, making it easier to know how the other would react in a fight and be able to act on that.
I reaaally doub that you will be able do spill all this mouthfull without being cut off, but if you do, say it loud and clear, facing Orjin.

>>881606
"We are practicing our bondage maneuvers SIR!"

>>881614
This is very important too. Try to say it at some point.

"Sir, we're practicing how to fight with our pants down and our limbs in five pieces. We just want to know how to defend ourselves when injured and without support - nothing serious, just some basic shove and push techniques against things that don't give a @#$% about the [Geneva Convention] - like zombies."

>Floor 5 key

My guess is that this is the key to one of Krix's personal rooms in his fortress. Moss is thinking ahead for when you get out of here - you should bank that key as well, really.

>>881606

Deadpan response. Fail to acknowledge the fuckery, as you have no fucks to give.

"Sir, sparring is going well and Aira is showing improvement. We're currently changing up our routine to simulate fighting when disabled in other ways, since we may not always be given the luxury to get used to it. If you're here to give us orders, I'd say she can easily take on most duties, if not hard or pitched combat. I am ready for duty."

Start loosening the bond on your arm and turning to address Sir Orjin.

"As for healing her eye, Aira spoke to a wizard, sir. Apparently healing eyes is hard and expensive so she'd like to wait and see."

Fail to realize the accidental pun you just made.

"On the topic of injuries, how is Mowbow doing, sir? Has he crawled out of bed to escape being found by you every morning yet?"

"Enemy not cooperative to being fucked up, sir, decided to practice how to fuck them up more effectively when better opportunity presents itself."

Sparring, sir, until the enemy presents himself.

>>881606
Trying to practice fighting with my eyes closed sir and We are also practicing so that if we become injured in battle we can still fight to aid you sir.
Nothing like a constant state of combat/practice to keep your edge sharp.

"Preparing for anything!"

Also this
>>881614

>>881618
>"Training how to fight in injured condition, sir!"
This is the most Fen-like one.

>Not Eyefucker
DON'T. ABSOLUTELY DON'T. Orjin can and WILL nickname you Eyefucker for that.

>>881614
do dis

>>881730
>Orjin can and WILL nickname you Eyefucker for that.
I agree! Don’t say that! No one will take us seriously if we get called “Eyefucker”!

the enemy is yourself

I wonder if you could ask Orjin, seriously, if he could put a stop to these rumors. You haven't had sex with anyone since you left your homeland.

>>881795
I was actually thinking the same. Not only for Fen, but for the sake of the girls as well. I think that they are the more prejudiced by this. We might actually ask him that letter personally.

>>881795
Yeah, that's going to blow up in our face faster than the eyefucker suggestion would.

Orjin has no control over the rumor mill and probably doesn't care

Almost any attempt to repudiate nicknames or rumors results in them getting stronger.

Also, honestly, kobold imperial military culture doesn't really seem to have any problems with sex, given that we haven't seen any official action or precaution against the possibility and prostitutes are apparently a-ok given that they're fully permitted so long as they go through the same screening as anyone else that comes down here. The only negativity in any mention of sex so far is in the implication that it's possibly getting in the way of duties. It's probably not really a problem for Fen or either Holly or Aira. Even if it was, we don't have any options for solving it that wouldn't be more likely to just make it worse.

Also also, this is just how Orjin talks, it doesn't mean anything. He probably says the same when he barges in on any one-one-one training session, regardless of the participants.

Fen 2018/04/30(Mon)16:41 No. 881808 ID: bfb318
File 152513167291.png - (17.85KB , 800x800 , 1045.png )

Aira move off of me so that we can report.

There are many things I could say, and most would end poorly. Maybe everything would, since this is Sir Orjin.

"Sir, we are training to fight in injured condition."
"How about you defeatists train to not get injured in the first place?! Why's there a target painted on your food flapper?!"
"Because sir, my nickname is Redmaw. Not... "

No. Anything else is going to backfire. I didn't ask for nicknames, but if I have to have them, I don't want it to be something crass like Eyefucker.

"Not - "
"Not what, Dickeye?!"
"Not anything like that, sir."
"Don't you worry your sensibilities, you'll always be Dirtfucker in my head! Zall says you might want to be a greater blood knight!"
"I am interested in - "
"And I told him you're too shitty a fighter! If you're still interested, see him at after the 22nd hourglass is empty! Otherwise, don't bother him! That's after bedtime, if you haven't paid attention to how we tell time down here. Aira! The offer's repeated to you, and all you other glorified pawns. I'm going back out to do work, there's reports of an abomination down on year 120!"

Instead of calling out floors or names, the army's taken to calling depth levels 'years', since the necromile isn't as well structured as the tombs above us, and almost 100 feet of earth sinks into Erja Nokol each year. We're currently located at year 152, in that sense. The garrison at the surface, then, is up at to the present year, 242.

Well figure out the current time and if you need a nap before the meeting.

Then go talk to the others and keep on doing your stuff until visiting Zall.

>see him at after the 22nd hourglass is empty

At where, sorry?

Well if you attempt to become a greater blood knight they'll probably train you for it. On the other hand we also want to find out what that would mean for Fen. More fighting against stronger single opponents is a good thing, to train for the arena.

>>881808
At least we know the mouth part of the helmet works. Now Fen can talk without his helmet muffling his voice. And he can eat and drink without leaving his head unprotected.

He does have a point about the red being a target. If I were you, I'd paint that a much darker red. It'd match real blood better, too.

Looks like you have a date.
Say thank you for the info. Pass it along to your peers when you can.

>>881808
Thank Sir Orjin and prepare to go see Sir Zall.

Well we have a meeting tonight, then.

>And I told him you're too shitty a fighter!
Hence training.

>>881816
Eh. I think the color's fine. If we're worried about sticking out, especially in low light or the dark, how white the rest of the stuff we're wearing is more of a concern.

>>881808

You're definitely going, even if you have to lose sleep. There's no way you're letting slip an opportunity to get Sir Zall's recommendation for becoming a Greater Blood Knight and/or useful training for that purpose.

Finish up with Aira - or cut it short so that you don't exhaust yourselves for whatever's going on this evening - and go see the rest of Sir Orjin's glorified pawns. That'd be... Firzel, Bolk, Valsano and Mowbow. The latter was badly injured and may not be up for training or a midnight meet.

Wait, Firzel and Bolk didn't participate in the commando raid. How are they doing?

>>881808
So I guess we need to get to year 5 then for Moss's key, right?

>>881828

Oh right the key thing. Ask Holly and Aira about it. Is it a lockbox key or what? Maybe Moss wants you to get something from his bank or who knows what.

Anyways ask the girls cause they know civilization and you are never figuring this out by yourself.

>>881828
No. Year 5 is under the necromile for sure. The key Moss gave Fen has nothing to do with this mission, it's for when Fen gets out and needs to steal his dragoncloth back.

>>881823
Once he has the rest of the outfit, though, which is predominantly shades of brown/grey/greenish, the red will stand out a lot, and will be a liability for stealth purposes.

>>881871
We're not outdoors for camouflage purposes and the undead don't give a shit about operating in the dark. Just ask poor lady Cassa what happened to her face.

Not only should the red paint be a darker shade, it should also NOT follow the separation between the helm and the jawpiece. It should go a bit higher, maybe with a sawtooth shape, to confuse opponents about where the separation is, rather than highlight it.

Offer assistance, otherwise prepare yourself to meet Zall.

>>881928

I'd forgotten that Cheese told you to maybe be on the lookout for other abominations, so volunteering to join Sir Orjin for this scouting trip might be good. Assuming the mission won't make you miss out on Zall's evening meeting.

I had forgoten how hard is to talk to Sir Orjin. Thank him for the tip of the "targuet" in the helmet, we will work on that later, maybe a darker red would help. Ask him what would he sugest to improve our fightting to be less shitty at it.
I say you should keep training until the meeting with Zall, if Aria is up for it. If not, do what you usually do to kill time.

>>881920
>It should go a bit higher, maybe with a sawtooth shape
Conflicting priorities. The whole point of the red piece is to capitalize on our reputation by having our image play into it, and a solid color block does so subtler and cleaner than a more realistic depiction.

Obviously this isn't maximizing camouflage or distraction, but you can't serve both purposes at once, and rep building is one of the things Fen needs to do.

A clean piece of single color is also better than an irregular, seam crossing, or realistic depicting in that it's easier on the armorer to produce and for lago to have to draw over and over all the time.

1/2 Fen 2018/05/01(Tue)17:20 No. 882010 ID: bfb318
File 152522044204.png - (20.49KB , 800x600 , 1046.png )

"I volunteer to join you for this scouting trip, if it means I don't miss the meeting with Sir Zall."
>"It could, so you aren't comin' to this one!
"Okay. Where is Zall??"
"In his office, dumbass!" Orjin says, storming off.
"Where - "
>"Let's ask Holly." says Aira.

Aira and I go back to sit at the bar. It's just after midday, so there's time to kill. I'll consider making the red paint on my armor darker.

"Will you go to see Zall?"
>"I will. I assume you are?"
"Yes."

Valsano finishes taking off his armor, sits by us, and grabs a drink from Holly all in the same motion.

>"I hope it's not to get respect from Sir Orjin, cause I doubt he'll treat us any different."
"No. I want to advance. Are you going to see him?"
>"Yeah, I think I am."
"How is Mowbow, by the way?"
>"Living. I think he's just fine as a lesser knight, the senseful bastard."
"Senseful?"
>"Greater knights, greater danger. Course, I'd be with him, but under Sir Orjin? The man's trying to get us killed anyway, rank or not, so I may as well get more money. Plus, we didn't join the assassin knights to live long healthy lives, assuming we're intelligent beings, which we might not be."
"Where is Bolk, anyway?"
>"Bolk said right off the bat he didn't want to be a greater knight, so of course that idiot was the one Sir Orjin voluntold to go accompany him to go abomination hunting. Poor bastard had it made as king of the pawns, then we removed the pawns."

He smells of alcohol already.

2/2 Fen 2018/05/01(Tue)17:21 No. 882011 ID: bfb318
File 152522046498.png - (37.84KB , 800x800 , 1047.png )

There isn't much else to do but kill time, so I spar more with Aira, and Valsano joins us later once he's at least moderately sober. Ultimately, we just try to kill the time in useful ways until the three of us go to Zall.

Dame Frais and Firzel join us as well, and we enter together as a group. Sir Mopp doesn't join us, as this offer pertains to blood knights and other combat focused knights, not quill knights.

Zall calls us one by one. After Dame Frais goes in, I'm called next.

>"Fen, hello. You were rushed quicker than anyone in your squad from pawn to knighthood, but in the need for effective fighters, I don't care. You can be promoted to greater knighthood right now, if you wish."
"What does being a greater knight mean, exactly?"
>"You get paid more, and I send you into the necromile. This is largely a formality, because greater knights are complaining to me that I am giving a handful of lesser knights more chance to prove themselves than I am greater knights. Therefore, if you are a greater knight, they lose their grounding to complain."
"Sir Orjin does not think I have the skill to become a greater knight."
>"Given the circumstances, I also don't care about his opinion. You may become a greater knight at any point so long as the war continues. As soon as you are promoted, I am sending you into the necromile. Either you survive and prove you're worthy of the title, or you die won't dilute the overall quality of greater knights. This offer stands any time, so feel free to come back in a week or two. As an alternative, if you agree to be promoted but wish to hone your skills first, I'm willing to supply tutors to help your swordsmanship. After a few weeks of tutoring, you will be promoted and sent below."

That sounds perfect. Tutor me up so I am not just throwing my life away and I will take the job.

Oh, if it's just a formality forget it. No real point in advancing if it gets you thrown into the fire before you're ready and won't get you anything special afterwards to boot.

You probably want your full armor before you go into the necromile. Until then you can hunt in the layers close to it.

>>882013
She said IMMEDIATELY.

>>882015
Zall is male and the offer doesn't need to be accepted immediately.

Hmm. How long was it for the armor? Three weeks? Tell Zall you've been told your armor will take that long, so you'll take the offer of being tutored for that long plus a day or two to get used to the armor. Ask him about the possibility of more mana sensing training during that time, too, and what helpful things you could theoretically buy within that time if you theoretically had, oh, say, about 30 gold. Theoretically.

The last paragraph has been revised to state tutoring more clearly.

We trust Orjin's judgement so take the training and then promotion. Will make sure you are ready without wasting to much time.

Ask him if you can somehow be tutored long enough for your armor to be ready for use. Not only you would be better prepared in experience, but in equipment as well. This would be the best case scenario of course. If this is not posible, i guess that the second option is good as well.
Now everything it's going to get harder though. How do you feel about this, Fen?

Accept the tutoring and train hard. You may find you're confident in your ability sooner than you think, and it'll also give the smith a chance to complete more of your armor.

>>882011
Accept the offer. Say you would like to get at least one week worth of training before going, but you're not fussed if you go immediately.

>>882011
I recommend the tutoring.

It'll also give you a chance to buy a gorget. You kind of need SOMETHING to protect your neck, it sticks out like a sore thumb with the rest of your body covered in heavy armor.

Accept his offer of tutoring and a promotion. It will let you finalize a few things and regain your edge before re-entering the crypts.

>>882011
Tell Sir Zall that you wish to hone your skills before being promoted. You’re also waiting 3 weeks for the rest of the custom armor that you ordered because it wouldn’t feel right to commission it and not wear it into the Necromile.

>>882029
>neck protection
I think that might be a part of the rest of the armor that Fen ordered.

Get on board the tutoring while waiting for armor train.

Yeah if you do accept the tutoring make sure to tell him you're perfectly willing to be called on short notice if there's an urgent need for more people down there.

>Valsano drinking during midday

It's probably fine, but you might want to keep an eye on his intake.

>Tutoring or immediate promotion

You very much wish to become a Greater Knight as soon as possible and to prove yourself to any naysayers. However, Sir Orjin has expressed doubts, and Sir Orjin's judgement, while harsh, is typically fair.

However, you also understand Sir Zall's need for bodies on the field and you trust in the value of his offer. Training for a week or so with competent teachers - maybe some of the more coolheaded Greater Knights, who can evaluate our worth to their comrades and show us what we are to measure up against - will have to make what difference it can.

That said, this may split the unit cohesion that Sir Orjin's lesser knights have been building. May you request that members of Sir Orjin's squad discuss whether to accept training as a group? You would not hold back someone like Dame Frais if she feels ready to move on wihtout further adieu - but for someone like yourself, Valsano, Firzel and Aira, assuming you will still be part of a squad as Greater Knights, having an already established unit cohesion could make a difference in a fight.

As a point of curiosity, who else will be doing the sponsoring? You presume he has someone, like another Grand Knight and a Gold Noble, lined up to allow for this to be done legally and that they're signing off on this on his recommendation, same as last time.

Your team is still 'injured', the other knights see you as a promotion target, and Garlic Soup has put a hefty bounty on your ass that won't go away until he does. Train until you've faded into obscurity, then make a comeback with stealth and profit.

Oh derp I didn't see the second offer. Taking tutoring before being sent down seems fine.

>>882038
... I don't want to sound like I'm being contrary, but you've actually made me think of several reasons to go down sooner rather than later. First, Zall's favor is based on Fen's achievements, and what he's willing to give (the tutoring, but also the protection from Fen's political enemies/assassins) might fade the longer Fen goes without proving his worth. Also, putting himself out of reach of lower ranked members of the military - who have more reason to want the rewards for killing him and less loyalty to the rules that say they shouldn't - will make assassination attempts less likely, as will simply being higher rank in the first place, since they won't be tempted to think of themselves as Fen's equal.

On the other hand, a good few of the greater knights are undoubtedly loyal to the man gunning for Fen in the first place, and are more likely to actually receive protection from the consequences of their actions.

Fen 2018/05/01(Tue)19:14 No. 882052 ID: bfb318
File 152522728767.png - (31.10KB , 800x800 , 1048.png )

"I would like to take the tutoring offer, as my armor will be completed in a little over two weeks. I'm willing to be called on earlier too, if you need an urgent need for people."
>"Good. Sir Orjin is extraordinary at physical training, and his pawns are among the best, but he has little idea how to teach technique. Let's arrange for four weeks maximum of training. Report to Greater Knight Hydril tomorrow morning, you can find a map with his name on it in the lobby. You may quit at any time for any reason, even if just because your armor is complete. Once the training stops, you'll be promoted immediately. Hydril can also stop your training at any point, and if he does so, you'll also be promoted then. I will give Hydril himself the authority and the orders to promote you, as I may not be around to do so. Do you have any questions?"
"Would it be possible for me to train with my squad members? I fear we may lose our teamwork otherwise."
>"Understand Fen, that your cohesion was half of the reason why your group alone was sent to retrieve the antlers. If I just wanted individual fighting talent, I would have sent a squad of greater knights down there. I won't break up Sir Orjin's team. If they accept the tutoring offer, they will join you."
"Is there another person involved in my promotion? That is, I understand I need 3 recommendations from grand knights or gold nobles."
>"I will get you your recommendations. Your promotion will be legitimate."

>>882052
Thank you sir, I won't let you down.

>>882053

All that needs to be said really.

>>882052
>Let's arrange for four weeks maximum of training. Report to Greater Knight Hydril tomorrow morning, you can get a map with his name on it in the lobby.
That’s important, don’t forget about grabbing that map!

>"I will get you your recommendations. Your promotion will be legitimate."
Bow to him and say to him, “Thank you, sir. I’ll do my best to not disappoint you.”

>>882052
Say thank you. You'll get right to work.

>>882053
Pretty much this. Express gratitude, and be polite. Zall's being more than reasonable and fair.

>>882052

Say you are satisfied with these measures and will train hard while you have the opportunity.

It's curious, though. Zall feels confident he can get the two other sponsors, meaning he probably has assurances from someone already, but does not admit to who they will be. I wonder if one of them is Warlord Krix - trying to get Fen killed by moving him to the front line before he's ready will backfire bad on him, especially if he hasn't realized Zall's throwing extra benefits like decent training Fen's way.

>>882052
Do not let him down. Prepare to begin training immediately!

"I can't thank you enough, sir. I won't let you down. I will start my training immediately."

How much free time will we have for regular duties, socializing, missions, and mental training?

>>882139
I think we should be asking Greater Knight Hydril that question, since our free time all depends on how often and/or intense his training sessions will be.

1/2 Fen 2018/05/02(Wed)15:28 No. 882174 ID: bfb318
File 152530012007.png - (32.84KB , 800x800 , 1049.png )

"Thank you, I'll do my best not to disappoint." I say, and bow. I think any questions I have about the training itself will be best asked to Hydril.
>"You'll meet expectations just by being alive the next time I see you. Please send Aira in as you leave.
"I understand."

I do so and stop at the lobby. There's a map of the necromile in here as well. It's already covered in more detail than I could ever memorize, yet there's so many blank spots. Two tough looking guards make sure no one steps too close to it.

By the time I finish training, the map should be much different.

Aira comes down soon after. I notice that Dame Frais is already gone.

"Hello, Aira. Did you take his offer for tutoring?"
>"Yes. He made it sound difficult."
"He did, and also sounded like going down unprepared would be a death sentence."

Aira glances at the necromile map.

"We should go to bed once the others share their news."
>"Okay."

2/2 Fen 2018/05/02(Wed)15:28 No. 882175 ID: bfb318
File 152530013312.png - (47.32KB , 1200x800 , 1050.png )

Firzel comes down next.

>"I guess we're in training together again, huh?" Firzel says.
"Yes, thankfully."
>"It's a step back though, isn't it? I thought we were done with training! And if he's like Sir Orjin... that's two Sir Orjin's in my life, and I don't know if I can handle it."
>"Sir Orjin only yells now. He hasn't followed through on threats." says Aira.
>"Yeah, not since we were in training.

Valsano comes down after a moment.

>"Hah, you suckers actually went for training?"
>"Yeah, and you're a sucker too, Valsano, so we're all in?" asks Firzel.
>"Nah." Valsano continues. "Not this time."
"Why not?"
>"Because like I always said, I got no luck. And Lord Hydril? Well, he's a real purist of a solder. No nonsense, no tolerance."

Valsano doesn't remove his clothes, but he pats his chest where his scar was. I recall it being a strong point of shame for him.

>"He'd just kill me, and you know what else? He's a relative of the local Mithril, so he'd get away with it, too."
"Was there no other tutor?"
>"Nope. Well, maybe there was for you guys, but you know, Zall isn't fond of my type, either. But you know what? It's not so bad."

He shows off a shiny emblem.

>"Now it's Sir Valsano to you guys, specially you, Firzel!"
>"Haha, okay, Sir High and Mighty Valsano."
>"That's better. Now you lesser beings better not be going to bed anytime soon, because tomorrow I'm going off to the necromile in advance for our squad. Unless I survive long enough for you guys to catch up, this'll be the last we see of each other."

Thanks for the tip on Hydril's personality. It's true, chances are you probably won't ever see him again, except possibly as a zombie you have to kill. Best hopes and all, but you'd better wish him well. Maybe be the designated driver and be the one who makes sure your group doesn't stay up too long and gets at least a decent amount of rest.

Should you give him some antidote...?

>>882175
>done with training
Welp he's gonna die. You're *never* done with training, no matter how good you get.

Hmm. A no-nonsense trainer... sounds like an opportunity to sharpen yourself to a razor's edge and strengthen your discipline. Unfortunately Aira is going to have a lot of trouble at first before she gets her eye back in working order because I doubt this guy is going to cut her any slack. Firzel might have ideological trouble at first.

Worst case scenario is that he tries to kill you because you're a wanted man, not being afraid of Sir Orjin. Let's hope it doesn't come to that, since... well, you'd have to fight back of course.

>>882175
>I thought we were done with training!
You’re never done with training. Even if you get to a high position of power, you keep training, otherwise you’ll lose all the skills you’ve learned.

>Unless I survive long enough for you guys to catch up, this'll be the last we see of each other.
Tell him that if he survives long enough for us to catch up to him, that’ll be a reason to celebrate when we all get back. And if he’s an undead the next time we see him, we’ll do him a favor and put him out of his misery, so that he’s not being controlled by a necromancer anymore.

>"We should go to bed once the others share their news."
I guess Fen's habit of making double entendres without realizing it is contagious. Poor Aira's spent too much time with him.

>Now you lesser beings better not be going to bed anytime soon
If the plan in to stay alive, I'm not sure staying up late the night before starting training or deploying deeper into the necromile is the best plan.

Congratulate him on the promotion, and we can stay up... for a little while.

>>882175

Not that surprised, really. Valsano has been pretty up front about wanting to cover himself in glory and/or die with honour to make up for his failing.

And Hydril's an officer of the old school and a well-connected one, huh? Well, it is what it is. We'll have Aira and Firzel with us, so at least we won't be alone. And Valsano will have Frais and Orjin. It's not a bad split-up, really. 50-50.

Give Valsano a friendly clap on the back and congratulations on being the first of the pawns to reach Greater Knight. Say you'll stay up for at least a little while longer to say proper goodbye - but you'll have no alcohol, and suggest some moderation from the others as well. From the sounds of Hydril, he's gonna have your asses if you turn up late, hungover and exhausted on the first day of training... and besides, you want to take the training seriously, even from day one.

Really, if Valsano wants a proper party, he can stay alive until the rest of you become real grown-up adults. A celebration of everyone's promotions at the same time type of deal.

Admit you'll miss the big lug... then CONSIDER the option of passing him half a vial of antidote with instructions on how to use it. He might have more use for it than us, stuck as we are in the training camp, and we can proooobably write to Cheese and ask surreptitiously whether she can arrange an actual stable supply of it.

If the idea has merit tell him that if he - or Orjin or Frais, really - gets poisoned by anything down there, he should feel free to use the vial. If not, he can keep it safe for you until you join up again.

Also ask him, "Say, did Zall tell you who else was sponsoring you?"

Valsino, don't joke about that so lightly. I want to see you again. You better not die, or I'll kill your undead ass.

>I thought we were done with training!
Wow, so inocent. As long as there is someone more stronger than you, there will allways be training. And that is fine by me, lets you forget that you are about to die in a warzone for a while.

>>882199
I really like Valsano, and i like the idea of giving him the antidote, but i am sure as hell that we will need it as much as him. And just the half of what you have might not be enought for either of you. So just tell him to NOT get hit by an arrow. And if he says something dumb, tell him to NOT GET HIT BY AN ARROW. Make him understand that.

I don't think giving him the antidote is worth it. Poison isn't so much the danger so much as he's going into direct conflict with less training and without his peers at his back, which that doesn't fix.

>>882175
We should drink to that.

1/2 Fen 2018/05/03(Thu)11:31 No. 882337 ID: bfb318
File 152537230588.png - (22.79KB , 800x800 , 1051.png )

"Don't joke, Valsano. I don't wish to have to fight your undead form."
>"Who's joking? Death is a reality down here."
>"I would rather we all plan on staying alive, so I don't want to stay up all night drinking, whether I'm going into the necromile or just training. We can have a better party when we all make it out alive."

It's tempting to hand him half a vial of antidote, but I decide against it. Maybe I can ask Cheese for another

"Just don't get hit by arrows. Did Zall tell you who else was involved with making us greater knights?"
>"Didn't even ask." says Valsano.
>"Anyway, you can stay up for a little while, right? We can still get a full night's rest before training." says Firzel.
"Yes, I can. And Firzel, training does not ever end. You will die if you think training is ever over, and simply stop learning."
>"... geez, barbarian, I meant training was over as in doing activities for the sole purpose of getting betters. Obviously we'll get better running into combat, but that's not the only point of running into combat, at least for most of us. You know what I meant!"
>"You gotta talk real carefully around the shroomleafers!" says Valsano. "Very literal except when they're not. It's like a whole different language."
"It's not a whole different language."
>"This is what I'm talking about!"
>"Come on." says Aira. "I have fur, and it's cold for me here."
>"Now Aira's speaking the language of common sense."

2/2 Fen 2018/05/03(Thu)11:31 No. 882338 ID: bfb318
File 152537231998.png - (29.74KB , 800x800 , 1052.png )

We go back. Valsano immediately gets some rounds for everyone currently at the bar, making the place much louder.

I won't be able to watch his intake, I guess. I just hope that he doesn't have access to this much alcohol down in the necromile. I still hope that he has access to some.

Holly hands me a drink that she's made for just me, which has just enough alcohol to where I can say it's an alcoholic drink to appease Valsano, and enough overpowering ingredients that hide the alcoholic taste. She also gives me a cup that allows easy drinking with my helmet on.

>"Hm, assassins coming in." she says.
"Do you know them?"
>"They've come in here before. They seem legitimate."

No one is batting an eye at them. Valsano even waves them in like they were friends, although they don't appear to recognize him.

Aww, she got you a sippy cup. How nice of her. Stay on guard with these, but no point seeking trouble.

>>882338
Can you keep track of them with mana sense? That seems like the least embarrassing way to keep your guard up.

This will be the first downside to your stylish helmet. A normal armored guy at the bar would not be recognized. But they will realize you are the red maw shortly.

Might not be a issue but keep your sword loose in the scabard.

That being said they might ignore you or even be fans depending on who they are. Not everyone is out to kill you. So don't stab anyone if they just come over and slap you on the shoulder and offer to buy you a drink.

>>882338
Remember, your entire organization is called 'assassins'. Just because these three guys who came in at once and all dress the same are too doesn't mean they're necessarily here to kill you.

...That said, keep your earholes open for them and don't accept any drinks they give you.

If they are here to kill you- and start sizing you up, be sure to show them how tough you are by drinking out of your sippy cup in an intimidating manner.

If they're "legitimate assassins", professional enough to be recognized by everyone as such, then they're presumably in the army's pay and not supposed to kill you. Heck, if everyone knows they're assassins you might as well strike up a conversation and ask them for tips on how to assassinate people/avoid being assassinated.

Still, better finish however much of your drink you want to have right now, and not drink any more in case someone slips something into it. It might not necessarily be poison: even something that makes you a little more groggy or clumsy will keep you from making a good impression on your new tutor and help strip you of your protections from your higher-ups who care about you. If I was a real professional, patient assassin, I would work to make you vulnerable and minimize the consequences to myself before trying to finish you, so you need to be on the lookout for sabotage as well as straight-up murder. A professional assassin would probably spend a good length of time observing you first, too.

At some point in the evening you might try stepping outside (but not going far, just pretending) and see if any of them try to follow you. Someone might want to just try observe where you sleep, or keep your things?

>>882348
This would be, on the contrary, a good way to look dumb. Good if they're hostile, bad if they're friendly.

>>882338
They're not part of the army? Does the military itself outsource like that often, or allow the more likely event of some person/squad hiring mercs for extra muscle?

Let's just see what happens. Usually, if there is trouble, it comes looking for you. You just have to pay attention and avoid it, as always. But do try to relax. I really doubt they will be looking for troble with anyone just because. Even if they are here for you, they can't just come in and attack you.

you're drinking a fruity cocktail out of a sippy cup, you should be making every effort to not get noticed right now.

>>882338
Keep your mana sense on and your ears open. Just don't make it obvious that you're on high alert.

>>882338
One downside of this bar is sitting with your back to the door, but at least you've got a barkeep who looks out for you.

There's... not a whole lot you can do but be alert? We have no evidence they're here to cause trouble, in general, or for Fen specifically. And this is a public place, at least so far as the local military is concerned. It's possible they're agents of one of several forces who might like to see Fen dead, but we don't have the clout to strike at potential threats preemptively with impunity.

>She also gives me a cup that allows easy drinking with my helmet on.
Also won't spill easy in a fight, or if you have to bash someone in the head with it! ...well, it's only wood, if you bash hard enough you're gonna break it.

They're elite soldiers. Fen joined the Assassin branch of the Dragon army, after all.

To quote Holly from Thread 4:

>"Oh, yeah. That branch, heh, the thing is... it was founded on the idea that there are some really tough fighters that are best taken out with a bit of poison in the food or while they're asleep, rather than on the battlefield where they're most dangerous. Cept, the empire hates that crap. They were seen as cowards. So even though they're called 'assassins', there's a lot of training to just one on one combat. Course, only idiots think they don't slit a sleeping warrior's throat now and then, but if you want to get a big name by taking down a big name, that's a good path. But that's what makes that a dangerous thing - you're sent, often alone or just with a few others, to take down names that are big for a reason."

>"There's subdivisions in each branch. I recommend the Lower Knights, a little division of the Assassins that gets sent in pretty hard for the smaller mission. The good thing about smaller missions is that they're still tough, but if you succeed, you won't have any glory hunters trying to take your credit. Then later on, maybe the Ram Knights or Nightfangs, but by then you'll probably have a better clue."

Finish your drink and keep half an eye on them while you ask Holly about the Assassin rank. Does Holly know which subdivision these guys are from and what that division does? And maybe she can tell you a little bit more about what she knows of the Nightfangs or Ram Knights, finally.

Say that last part loud enough that the other assassins overhear you. Maybe they'll volunteer some information.

1/2 Fen 2018/05/04(Fri)14:41 No. 882531 ID: bfb318
File 152547009555.png - (20.72KB , 800x800 , 1053.png )

At this point, I habitually use mana sense at all points. It is not very useful yet, but for training purposes, I always attempt it. I can't sense them at all through mana alone, so I mostly keep wary.

I take a drink from my cup, then Holly takes it. Although I wasn't planning on having anymore...

"Why did you take my cup? I was done, but I did not say anything."
>"It's, uh..." She leans in to whisper. "A fruity cocktail out of a cup like this isn't very Red-Mawy."
"I do not understand what is wrong with it."
>"I'll explain in detail later, but sometimes we like things difficult up here."
"Do you know who those assassins are?"
>"Other than assassins? No, I'd have to see their emblem to see."
"I remember you talking about Ram Knights and Nightfangs."
>"Oh, yeah. Functionally, they're both no different than other knight or assassin divisions, but who runs them and what they can accomplish defines them. Ram Knights are excellent vanguard knights, and Nightangs, well, a sneaky lot. So they get missions that suit them. If you want to be in a vanguard, you can join any knights, but Rams are the best standard for it."
"And right now we're under the Lower Knights, correct?"

Two of the assassins are talking with Valsano. Another is looking over the room.

>"Actually, no. Once Sir Orjin got rid of all the pawns, Zall put him under his own knight's banner."
"Which is called?"
>"You know? I don't really think Zall named his own knights, I think it's just 'Zall's Knights.' If a new grand knight replaces his station, it'll be that knight's knights."
"I was also not aware we changed out from Lower Knights to Zall's... knights."
>"People who aren't formally in charge of a squad don't often get told. Really, you just follow what your boss does. If your boss dies, you either get a new leader in your squad, or find another."
"Does Zall have a boss?"
>"Sort of. It's supposed to be a dragon knight. In practice, it's the region's rulers."
"I'm confused about how the army is ran."
>"That's normal."

2/2 Fen 2018/05/04(Fri)14:41 No. 882532 ID: bfb318
File 152547010404.png - (23.61KB , 800x800 , 1054.png )

The assassin looking over the room finds me. I make sure my sword is loose in my scabbard, but there's something inoffensive in his casual position. I study it for a moment and note that he's a decent distance away from me, both of his hands are visible, and he has an open stance towards me.

>"Hey, if it isn't Red Maw."
"Are you here to start a fight?" Holly makes a face I can't describe.
>"Hah! No. I'm an assassin, not a bounty hunter." He flashes his emblem. "And if I were a bounty hunter, well, I could find other walking piles of gold that aren't in a quarantine. My name's Esscaf. Hey, bartender, throw me a drink, something for a buzz."
>"Coming up."

He puts his hand out to shake mine while Holly turns to make something.

>>882532
Politely greet them. Request information as to their involvement in this campaign. Make small talk as to how dangerous this place is.

>>882532
don't shake his hand. "no offense but I am not in a position to trust even a handshake at the moment"

That looks more like he is holding the hilt of his weapon than reaching out to shake hands.

Regardless you are heavily armored and have gauntlets on. And are trained in unarmed combat. Unless he has a poisoned ring on his hand it should be safe.

So shake hands but watch for suspicious rings and other goings on.

Then ask him what his squad has been doing.

>>882536
I think a handshake should be safe as long as Fen doesn't let his guard down. He's wearing gauntlets, so they can't do much with a handshake other than use it as a distraction.

Shake hands I think, his stance seems to be deliberately such to indicate that he's not going to be a threat. Maybe ask what branch he's from.

>>882532
Shake his hand and introduce yourself. "Fen".

We're in full armor, he's not, if the shake is meant as a trap, we can crush his hand and slam into him.

You're wearing your gauntlet, a handshake is very unlikely to accomplish anything. Though, now I think of it... I don't think we've seen that many handshakes? And under this Empire I'd assume the old "checking for weapons up the sleeve" function of it, which applies very much here.

So give him that handshake where you grasp each other's wrists.

extend hand forward

Make small talk, don't shake his hand. Confess that you aren't feeling like shaking hands since the last attempt at your bounty.

Essentially, bluff him out. Yeah you'll be fudging the truth a bit but it'd absolutely suck if you die because he pulled you off of your chair and then shanked you through a weakspot on your back.

>>882532
Shake his left hand by using the wrong hand (the right hand), instead of the correct hand (your left hand).

>>882532
So he's purposefully trying to set you at ease. Well, you know where the other two are so I guess he really does just want to talk to you.
Shake hands, ask why he was looking for you, if not for your bounty. If he's got questions about what you've seen in the tombs you've already made your report.

Handshake should be fine. If he tries any silly shit go for a headbutt.

Go for the wrist shake to check for weapons up the sleeve; it’s probably what he was expecting regardless of his potential motives. If he tries to pull you off your balance when you go for the shake, use the momentum to pivot around his outside and deck him in the temple with your free hand.

Otherwise, introduce yourself and ask why he wished to see you. (Actually, do that even if you do end up in a fight.)

>"I'll explain in detail later, but sometimes we like things difficult up here."
You imperials are no fun.

Wait, we are under a Dragon Knight? That is not something to scoff off.

I say we shake his hand. Firmly. I can't say that i recognise the emblem though.
Ask him what kind of missions he has been doing. If he has something interesting to tell about his time here.

>>882610
>Wait, we are under a Dragon Knight? That is not something to scoff off.
Yes it is, literally everyone except the emperor and themselves are under dragon knights. That's how the chain of command goes.

>>882613
Maybe i have more in common with Fen that i thought then.

Aw, Holly's looking out for your image as a badass.

>>882532

Show your own symbol and return the handshake.

"Fen. If you're not foolish enough to get involved in the bounty business, why did you seek me out?"

Fen 2018/05/05(Sat)08:48 No. 882669 ID: bfb318
File 152553528017.png - (18.29KB , 800x800 , 1055.png )

His left hand was at its side where I could see it before lifting up for a handshake. I have heard about shaking hands. I think it is more common among draconian kobolds than other kinds. I don't know why, perhaps it is a Dragonfall custom.

After staring at him for a moment as he holds his hand out patiently, I brace myself and hold the back of his left hand with the palm of my right hand. I get a weird look from both him and Holly, but nonetheless, hands are shook.

"I am Fen. Why were you looking for me?"
>"I'm what you might call a social opportunist. I just came here with my friends, for a drink, then I saw you over here."
"I don't recognize your emblem. What does your squad do?"
>"Down here? We wander the more dangerous zones and attempt to off monsters lurking in the dark, since that's what they've been doing to us."
"You don't assassinate kobolds, then?"
>"Not unless we find Momo or one of the other big players."

>Ask them for tips on how to assassinate people/avoid being assassinated.
"If you were to assassinate me, how would you go about it?"
>"I'd start by not doing anything here out in the open in front of witnesses, nor when you sleep, unless you never leave this bar or your sleeping room. I'd learn your patterns and see how to get you alone. Then most likely drop from above if I could, or sneak up behind you, and put a dagger through that open neck of yours. I'd do something about that."
"I am."
>"Good. Otherwise, watch your back, and watch your top."

I was never that active at parties even in my own tribe. Perhaps I should just wish Valsano well and go to sleep, now.

The helmet was missing its red, but then Lagotrope ninja edited it.

Nah man, stick around and spend some time with Aira. If nothing else you can pigeonhole her in a corner and talk about what it was like back home for you two or something.

>>882672
What was the point of this post

Speaking of Momo, have you seen any other of her tricks? The last time she tried one on me came out with mixed results.
We might as well ask what ever we can think of. Tips and other things. For example: what does he know about the bounty hunters that are after Fen? Anything interesting about that? Some gossip?

>"I'd start by not doing anything here out in the open in front of witnesses, nor when you sleep, unless you never leave this bar or your sleeping room. I'd learn your patterns and see how to get you alone. Then most likely drop from above if I could, or sneak up behind you, and put a dagger through that open neck of yours. I'd do something about that."
That's generally good practice for trying to kill someone. But on the other hand, if you think you're safe in front of others, and let your guard down, someone is gonna strie you in that arena eventually.

>I was never that active at parties even in my own tribe. Perhaps I should just wish Valsano well and go to sleep, now.
Depends on how long you've already been here? You should stay at least a little bit, not to be rude. And wish Valsano well before you depart.

>>882669

Stay for half an hour or so longer and make a conscious effort to be social. Making some connections with assassins who don't want to kill you could be valuable as a source of more information and training tips, if nothing else. Pick a few things to talk about and see what he talks about back. That will indicate what he's interested in from you.

You could... obliquely namedrop Rasyan and reference his killing and see how Esscaf reacts.

"Thank you for the advice, Esscaf - it is sound. Hmm... Pocky certainly could've used an armored collar."

You could vaguely mention your background and try to build your legend a little.

"It figures that an assassin would name themselves an opportunist - though that is not a criticism. We do what we must - in the Shroomleaf forest the seasons often determine how bitterly food is fought over."

You could talk about some of the encounters you've had down here, and see if he'll reciprocate with tales of strangeness of his own.

"During the battle, I hacked a sizable serpent-creature's neck apart. The Empire's magical blades are truly sharp." *gesture to show how wide the neck was* "I also had a run-in with Momo herself. Tried to light her on fire with a little trick Firzel there taught me. I get the feeling you should take care around that one."

You could talk more abou the bounty, to see if he volunteers any information of his own.

"This bounty business is tiresome. Lord Krix, I hear, is hardly even sending his best, just his most desperate."

You should stay and talk. He made an effort to talk to you, don't just snub him.

Ask how his missions are going. Ran across any interesting undead?

Don't just walk away on this guy now, give him a little more chat, let him ask some questions. Don't stay too long but give everyone you care about or who opens up to you a few moments.

Before you go, ask him what he knows about Momo?

Ask if there's been any reports/sightings of Momo since the anomaly clearing mission.

After all, you tried to set her on fire and want to know if you succeeded.

>>882748
Oh Fen succeeded,Momo might have survived is the problem.

>>882780
The degree of success is important, it'd be nice to know how bad the burns are next time we see her.

>>882669
Say thank you and good luck on the hunt.

When you shake hands, Fen, use the same hand as is offered and grip palm to palm. If you want to be a noble at some point you're gonna need to know this stuff.

Say you can't party too hard, you've got training pursuant to a promotion starting tomorrow, but you wouldn't mind hanging out for a bit.

1/2 Fen 2018/05/07(Mon)18:05 No. 883082 ID: bfb318
File 152574150010.png - (38.33KB , 1200x800 , 1056.png )

Then again, I haven't been here for long. I will stay.

"I have met people who could have used collar guards."
>"I'm sure."
"Do we know anything else about Momo?"
>"Why would I?"
>"You're the only one who's seen her, Fen." says Holly. "So she's presumed alive and well, if a bit burnt. Hey, why don't you tell him some of your accomplishments."
"Hrm..."
>"I'd like to hear them." he says.
>"Is it okay, in the empire?"
>"Why wouldn't it be?"
"In the shroomleaf forest, it is frowned upon to talk of one's own praises. I have talked of them, yes, but I've attempted to keep only the facts, and leave it to the others to see how it reflects off of me."
>"We're not in the shroomleaf forest, though."
>"No." Holly continues. "But you don't abandon draconian customs entirely even in other regions, do you?"
>"Well certainly not in this region. Well how about you just explain some facts to me, then?"

2/2 Fen 2018/05/07(Mon)18:05 No. 883083 ID: bfb318
File 152574153964.png - (54.92KB , 1200x800 , 1057.png )

Valsano and the others are making a lot of noise. The other assassins also keep a safe distance away from them, as well, though Valsano doesn't seem to have a care. He buys a second round for everyone. I decline.

"I can say that I nearly sliced off a neck about this big from a serpent." I say, gesturing. "But the blades the empire supplies are amazingly sharp."
>"Not that sharp, unless enchanted for it." He lowers his voice to a whisper. "It seems like your better accomplishment is noble slaying."
"And for that, I've earned Krix's bounty hunters, except I've gotten his most desperate, not his best."
>"I don't know much about them, but don't write off desperate ones. It's the desperate ones that are willing to do the most dangerous things."
"I'll keep that in mind. I would also like to hear of your missions."
>"For what we've done around here, we may as well be glorified scouts. The undead know this place, as they've no doubt been able to run wildly through here for who knows how many years. I'll tell you one thing, though. The necromile has a surprising amount of chokepoints in it. We can get stationed in an area for a long time, and potentially get cut off from our supply line on top of that. When you leave, do yourself a favor and pack 3 times as much as you think you'll need."

>>883083
Thank him for the advice, that's certainly useful information.

It's tempting to tell him about your two noble kills but both of them involved the dragoncloth in some way. How public was that info, again?

>When you leave, do yourself a favor and pack 3 times as much as you think you'll need.
Hah! That is actually funny. I am always worrying that i over do it when preparing my stuff. You make me feel less paranoid, thank you.
The only tip that i have for you is to not get hit by anything, because chances are that it is poisoned, and you wont get an antidote for it any time soon. I know, is a obvious tip, but is the only one i got, and i almost die finding it out.

Yeah, warn them about the poisoned arrows.

Honestly you haven't been in the empire long enough to really accomplish anything besides killing a noble.

Say our parting words as other people suggest them, make extra extra sure to tell Valsano about this tip (since he’s the one going down into the necromile tomorrow) and that all our squad should lay off the drank, perhaps even give him a note with the same tip in case he doesn’t listen and loses our conversation to a drunken blackout, and head back to our quarters, wary of our surroundings all the way.

>>883094
It was revealed at a public trial but it's unwise to mention it flippantly.

Anyway, note that the nobleslaying was more a product of the region being incredibly tense and unstable than him particularly wanting to.

Also, warn him about poisoned arrows. There are lots of them and they are extremely deadly.

>>883083

>Mowbow is present

Oh hey, our mountain buddy is up and walking again. Say hi and wish him good luck with his recovery.

>chokepoints, bring extra supplies

It shouldn't surprise you that the Necromancers' home turf would be challenging to conquer, and that an underground area riddled with tunnels could be filled with easily collapsible chokepoints. Throw the 'get more supplies' tip in Valsano's direction as well - make it a joke about maybe not packing just beer for the trip.

What's the area down there like? Are there structures, ancient or new, or is it all dug burrows? Have there been signs of tar pits? Is it as cold there as here?

>glorified scouts

"Well, at least you're coming back alive."

>desperation

"Krix hopes to use desperate kobolds to wear me down or get lucky. The 'wound' I hope to give him is that this is a suicide mission. Few like working for - or with - those who needlessly waste lives and damage their own cause. See the case of Sir Veiza."

>Other achivements

"Hmmm. I once killed a pair of supposedly elite mountain kobold bodyguards - although I caught them by surprise and even then they left me concussed, so I can't claim complete victory."

"I've also survived an ambush by a pair of abominations outside of Erja Nokol, one of them quite poisonous, although I had help from a bounty hunter. If you ever face something with poison spines, it helps to have a cloak to shield yourself with. Though it will not help against a sniper's poisoned arrows - that's why I'm buying better armor. Decent odds at survival justifies a wide range of expenses and precautions."

I wonder if being down here in this tomb makes people more inclined to help each other out. So thanks for this information and that you'll pass it to your squadmate who's going down there soon. Offer to buy him his next drink so you catch up with Mowbow before you head out.

Thank him for the advice.

Mention how you are honestly not sure how your accomplishments stand up to anyone elses. Since you have come to the empire its been nothing but fighting and deadly politics. But you are learning and improving.

For a ignorant barbarian we have come a long way in only a few months.

Chat with him further or join the social circle. But keep the armor on. Everyone knows your reasons.

Not sure if Esscaf is just trying to swap stories or trying to network / socialize, or if he was sent to try and get close at someone's behest. Not that we can tell the difference between someone being genuinely friendly and trying to worm in at this point, and he did offer sound advice.

>Well how about you just explain some facts to me, then?
You could talk about your and Aira's fight with that ghost thing. Or maybe some of the fights you were in in Fence, although with Cheese as an ally, spreading information about how Cabbage and Tomato fight and what kept you alive against them isn't really in your interest. Getting into details of noble-killing seems like it would just come back to bite you more, even if we are trying to embrace he Red Maw mantle.

>Mowbow
Probably should say hi.

>>883083
"thanks for the hint" also excuse yourself for a moment and go give Valsano a hug its important to send your friends off like its the last time you will see them down here.

>>883176
No hugs unless Fen is insanely drunk, which he’s not.

Fen 2018/05/08(Tue)14:59 No. 883254 ID: bfb318
File 152581678926.png - (27.08KB , 800x800 , 1058.png )

"Thank you for the advice. As for my accomplishments, I don't know how they compare to others, as I haven't been in the empire long. What is the area like, down below?"
>"Mostly old ruins, half caved in. There's the occasional dug tunnel, but no new structures I've heard about."
"Any tar pits?"
>"Yep. Watch your step."

>How public was information regarding dragoncloth?
I'm not sure, anymore. I still won't want to talk about it extensively.

"Excuse me, I need to catch up with some others."
>"Sure." he says, turning to Holly.

I go to the main socializing circle.

"Hello, Mowbow." He's lost a lot of weight.
>"Hi, Fen." He also sounds weak. He is alive, though.
>"Fen." Aira says. "I have something I need to talk with you in the back."
>"It can wait!" says Valsano, about twice as slow as he normally talks, and about twice as loud. "Fen, tell us what you think Death Ca - pff - what you think de - pfff - wha - " He chokes down his gigglefit. "What that necromancer looks like!"

Lift the visor on your helm Fen, social time is not a good time to be practising getting used to your armour.

As for Death Carrot, orange and green at least. A few mutant names are somewhat descriptive at least, I imagine someone came up with that name for them instead of them choosing it.

>"What that necromancer looks like!"
Time for deadpan serious Fen.

"I don't know. From the few I've seen mutants and abominations vary wildly in appearance, and their names, while unusual, do not describe their appearance."

>"Fen." Aira says. "I have something I need to talk with you in the back."
Let's see what she wants.

>>883254
ask Aira if it can wait while you tell Valsano his last grand tale

>>883254
His face would be pointy. He'd have green tentacles coming out of the back of his head, and blue scales.

He'd also be short, like a carrot.

Ask Aira if this is one of those "Right now" conversations.

If its not one of those "I need to tell you these guys are going to try and jump you in 15 seconds" conversations then spare a moment to respond to Valsano.

I would assume a giant evil bunny monster. Field kobold with huge teeth maybe?

1/3 Fen 2018/05/08(Tue)16:28 No. 883271 ID: bfb318
File 152582212860.png - (20.29KB , 800x800 , 1059.png )

"Can it wait?" I ask Aira.
>"Long enough for you to tell Valsano what you think Death Carrot looks like."
"I don't know. Mutants and abominations vary wildly in appearance, and their names, unusual as they are, do not seem to describe their appearance."
>"Gehhhhhhhhhhhhh." Valsano continues making this noise of disapproval until it becomes inappropriate. "hhhhhhhhhh use your imagination, savage!"
"Short like a carrot. Orange, green. Pointy. Similar to a rabbit? Perhaps a field kobold, with large teeth?"
>"Nevermind, Fen! That's such a boring answer, I'm sober! Holly! Drink me!"
>"No, Valsano, though you're quickly becoming mostly alcohol."
>"Fen?" Aira whispers.
"Right. Valsano, I expect to see you alive when I go down there."
>"Then you better hurry up!" He slaps me on the back as I leave.

2/3 Fen 2018/05/08(Tue)16:28 No. 883272 ID: bfb318
File 152582213467.png - (38.59KB , 800x800 , 1060.png )

I go back with Aira. She leads me to one of the side rooms that I haven't been in yet. It's on an upper floor, and the stairs ascend almost more like a ladder than what stairs I've seen so far.

"What did you want to talk about?"

She takes off her cloak and sword.

She says nothing as she does so. I can't even hear her breath, not like I usually can. All she does is look into the fire. Sometimes, she needs a moment to collect her thoughts, so I patiently wait for her to speak. Eventually, she will. This time is no different.

>"I'm sorry."

>"It's selfish of me to keep asking you to rescue me, even if this isn't about life and death. But..."

3/3 Fen 2018/05/08(Tue)16:29 No. 883273 ID: bfb318
File 152582217958.png - (17.23KB , 800x800 , 1061.png )

She turns just slightly towards me.

>"I hate parties. I would rather have another mace to the stomach or dagger to the eye than continue being sociable, and Valsano would never let me leave if I tried to leave by myself. I've already said goodbye to him. I'm going to bed. I chose this room, as I don't think Valsano can make it up such steep stairs. Goodnight. Let me know if I can do a favor for you in return."

>>883273
ask her if she minds you sleeping with her. you aren't the biggest on parties either.

Hug Aira. "I feel the same way. Do you mind if I sleep with you?"

>>883280
And if she reacts to the wording, ask if she can keep a secret, then tell her barbarians do have a sense of humor.

Tell her It’s no problem if she needs bailing out of social events, and if we need her help with something then we’ll let ger know. For now, she should just enjoy her rest.

Oh come on, people are DEFINITELY going to talk if Aira drags him off to her room and they spend the night together, even if it's not sex.

Tell her you understand, it's hard to spend time with a friend if you know they're going to die very soon. All you can do is hope Valsano survives. Or if he doesn't, he retains his free will as an undead.
Then take your leave.

>>883284
Ah. A tactical retreat, I understand. I admit to not being skilled socially myself.

>Oh come on, people are DEFINITELY going to talk
Sure, but they already are, and neither Fen nor Aira seem bothered by the talking.

>>883273
All you should ask is if she can return the favor one day. Tell her you'll follow her lead and get a room up the stairs as well whenever you're ready.

Tell Aira to not be sorry, as it's a rescue for us as well. Besides, if Valsano is any measure our boringness would put a damper on things.

>>883284
If we go back to the party we're gonna have to make our leave eventually, and our bluntness might mess with the mood. It might be better to take the escape route we've been given, regardless of the risk of rumours. Valsano would probably get a laugh out of it anyway if we stay, which might be for the best considering how good he thinks his chances are.

Say she doesn't owe you, you aren't fond of it either.

Tell her if she still doesn't mind the rumors, and you won't mind if she does, but you would appreciate her help keeping out the cold.

Poke around the room. If its hidden enough and defensible enough ask if you can sleep with her.

Fen 2018/05/08(Tue)18:00 No. 883293 ID: bfb318
File 152582761294.png - (19.92KB , 800x800 , 1062.png )

"I'm not one for parties, either. There is no need to apologize, in fact, I should sleep here as well."

She pulls a key out from under a bed and locks the door, before taking her scale mail off. I look around the room while she does. I don't see anything unusual about it, and it does look like it's been a long time since it's been used.

>Hug Aira
She's all but said that hugs are fine when not in front of Sir Orjin, but she is still difficult to read when it comes to seeing if she enjoys the hugs at all.

>"This isn't the only key, but the door creaks loudly if it opens. We can't be snuck up on in here, if you're still worried about assassins."
"Always. Aren't you?"
>"No. I'm not. You should sleep with me."
"I said that, didn't I?"
>"I mean in the same bed. It's cold."

It's true. It seems to be getting colder every day.

"I should also remind you that if we sleep together like this, the rumors about us will keep spreading."
>"Maybe you shouldn't, then."
"I don't mind rumors."
>"Neither do I. People have followed and hassled me for my money, not because of who I sleep with. I mean you. You and Lily have a history of some kind, yes?" she asks quietly. "If she found the rumors and believed them, would this bring you problems?"

>>883293
I don't know the customs of the Empire but where I come from it would not. Sleep with her

>>883293
Tell her that if that kind of thing bothers Lily after it's explained properly then you'd think less of her. You value her too much to let that bother you.

You can probably take the helmet off Fen. Sorta hard to sleep with one, and you're alone in a locked room with someone you trust.

>If she found the rumors and believed them, would this bring you problems?
I'm not sure. I would hope not, or that should would not believe them. But if the rumors are strong enough to travel that far, it is likely too late to alter that.

I don't believe so. But either way I am not going to live my life worried about what other people think.

>>883293
Not really. The entire point of coming down here was because Fen trying to marry her would bring HER problems, so he's trying to remedy em. Nothing wrong with sleeping with a friend.

>>883293
I don't think spending time with a close friend, intimately, sexually, or otherwise, would change your feelings for Lily. Besides, you two are close, and sharing pleasant memories can be important when you're going to be risking life and limb in the necromile.

>>883296
Now this is a valid point. It's not a complicated situation. You're simply doing the smart thing and conserving your heat and energy by sleeping with someone you trust in a room that's secure. Anything out there is simply soldiers' gossip.

Why don't you ask her clone? She would know if this would cause problems.

All this, the army, killing nobles, the dragoncloth, me getting almost kill every day, is all for her. I have no other reason to be here. This is not only the way to get to her, but a way to show how much I care, how much I am willing to do to get to her. I would like to think that some gossip is not going to overshadow everything I've done so far. She is not a clueless one either, she will recognize the truth and the lie.

>>883293

Start undressing and getting ready for bed.

"If it did come between me and Lily, of if these rumours hurt her feelings, I'd blame myself, not the friend who was kind enough to share warmth with me for perfectly logical reasons... but the thing is, as long as I told her everything, I think Lily would believe me regardless of any amount of rumours - and even see the most positive aspects of it. Sharing friendship and warmth in a cold and difficult situation, those would be appealing concepts to her, I think."

Stare off into the fire yourself for a short while, reminiscing about Lily.

"She is a kind woman. The kindest I've met - no offense intended, for she admitted her kindness largely stems from a position of wealth and privilege few get. She does wish to use that wealth and privilege to help the Empire's people, though. While she may not love him, the Empire would not be worse off if she became Lord Shup's wife with all the influence that entailed - but I'd much rather I could see to her family's needs and make her truly happy. I cannot imagine a satisfying existence without her, which makes me a lovestruck sap, but that is how I feel."

Move over to Aira and give her a friendly hug.

"Anyway, we don't have to worry. There are truth wizards, so if someone really wanted to verify that the rumours weren't true, all they'd have to do is get me one. As long as I insist they do not ask misleading questions, it should be a simple matter to clarify matters."

Either I have the chance to explain myself and I simply need to tell the truth, or I won't and it will not be my problem anymore.

...Could silly rumors like these really make it all the way to the goldyard?

Fen 2018/05/08(Tue)19:33 No. 883313 ID: bfb318
File 152583320994.png - (24.85KB , 800x800 , 1063.png )

"No. If anything, I would cause more problems for her."

I take off my own armor. Aira looks slightly relieved, perhaps thinking I was going to join her in full armor. She lays out her untied cloak like a blanket, which I realize was wider and thicker then I initially thought. I consider a hug, but there'll be enough hugging in bed.

"Could rumors like this ever reach the goldyard?"
>"Considering we have warp magic and there's a Lily construct in the base who was escorted by you and me? Yes."
"No... she's kind, and thinks of others. If anything, she'd want me to share warmth and friendship with those I risk my life with."
>"That sounds like something the clone would say, so you may be right."
"Maybe I'll ask that clone herself if I get a chance."
>"You like Lily this much?"
"She's made me feel alive when I didn't know what feeling alive felt like. When I killed a noble, everything involving the dragoncloth, the killing I do, why I've ended up in Erja Nokol... it's because I want to be able to reach her."
>"I thought you were down here because Lady Apanya noticed you did a lot of what you mentioned."
"I would have come here anyways."
>"Oh."

She breathes in like she's about to say something more. Then she doesn't, though she keeps breathing like that for a moment, holding her words back. She might be hard to read in certain ways, but she's terribly blunt when she looks like she wants to say something more.

I might not be the best reader of people but I know you well enough to know you want to say more.

So whatever it is feel free to ask. Or tell.

If she seems conflicted about continuing, go ahead and prompt her to do so, and see how that rolls along. You're a complicated person for civilized folks to read, she should know that you're not going to be offended with whatever she may have on her mind.

>>883313
Ask her to say something more.

Touch fluffy tail.

>>883320

Yessssss.

Take off your armor first, then ask her what's on her mind. Stroke her tail to put her at her ease.

>>883313
Tell her to just speak up. Is it that she can't figure out why you'd want to be here? The answer is, you have to be incredibly strong to have a chance at being able to marry Lily.

>>883313
You've knocked her propensity to the max a friend could go. You keep adding to it but there's not enough room! I can't help but maybe feel like you're dicking her heart around when you don't mean to, you bland, strong man.

>>883313
You don't have to hold your tongue.

Allow her to make her own decisions on whether to speak or not, she's a grown woman. I do not advise touching fluffy tail.

Aria, spit it out already. I might be a dense barbarian and horrible at interacting with people, but at least i can notice when a friend has something more to say. If you don't talk, i am going to pull from your tail.

It's pretty obvious what's on her mind isn't it?

Fen has a habit of saving people, and he's done Holly a tone of good. If she's not attracted to him it would be strange, so she's probably just wondering how... intimate sleeping with him will be.

"Aira, it's okay to say your mind. I can take blunt honesty." Continue to get comfortable, Fen.

Fen 2018/05/08(Tue)21:01 No. 883344 ID: bfb318
File 152583847399.png - (25.24KB , 800x800 , 1064.png )

Once I'm down to my underclothes I move to get into bed with Aira.

"May I touch your tail?"
>"It isn't as warm as it looks, but yes."

I do so. She's right, though it does feel nice.

"You know that I won't get offended by whatever more you have to say."
>"I know."
"Then I would like to hear it, if you want to speak."
>"... There was a noble from Poluputus that toured the farms of the turtle. My friend was enamored before I could even see him through the glint of his golden robe. The noble of poluputus seemed attracted to her, at least enough to let her in close enough to have a conversation friendly enough that when he left later that day, she was inspired at the thought of living a high life. She wanted to tour the world and be able to have such an impact on the world that one could tell which trails she went down just by how it was affected. To do so, she followed the only path the empire knows, and spent what little money she had saved up on... what we called 'armor' back then, and sword lessons. She found a few similarly ambitious friends and set out towards the first bandit camp she could find in order to start building her reputation. I wasn't allowed to join her, but when she didn't return, I snuck out the next morning. I found her body - "

She stops.

>"I think you get the point."

>"I don't know what made me think any of that was okay to say. I'm not trying to convince you not to follow Lily, and I don't need sympathy. You know the risks, better than my friend ever did."

Man, do hug her.

"No, it's fine, I appreciate your concern. Don't worry too much, I'm not one to get myself killed. Although I wonder if you have any ulterior motives in advising me not to pursue Lily."

>>883344
Ask what her friend's name was.

Tell her you got this far, you've already proven you're strong. You can do it, and you're going to. Don't worry.

Sorry to hear about your friend. I started this journey knowing that I could easily end up dead in a ditch if I made the wrong choices. But it was this or spend my life unhappily in the forest.

I am not chasing Lily for money or a noble lifestyle. I have simple tastes and would have been fine living with her out in the forest I think. But chasing the dream of being with her motivates me and drives me like nothing else. If I want to be with her I have to be strong enough to take and keep her.

My brother gave it all up you know. I still have almost no idea what he did when he was in the empire. But apparently he made it all the way to the top and then gave it all up to relax back at home in the forest with our family. He never told me anything about his time in the service.

So far my journey has been well worth it. I have made many new friends and companions and learned so much. Am not sure where this road will take me but I am glad to be on it.

Thanks for traveling with me. I am happy to count you among those friends.

"I'm sorry to hear about your friend. I can see the parallel, but I would say... and I hope I don't sound arrogant... I had good reason to believe I had the potential to go that far. At least, it was good odds."

A cautionary tale. Get comfortable and thank her for being concerned. You're going to do everything in your ability to not just be another sad example.

It seems like she's concerned about you, Fen. Give her some reassurance, at least. You'll be there for her, both as an ally and as a friend... Don't be too sappy, though. Maybe try and move the conversation to something more pleasant; there's enough death on everyone's minds already.

“I think it’s a matter of how you go about doing things. When talking of pursuing your heart’s desire, it is ‘do’ or ‘do not’; there is no ‘try.’”

I'm sorry to hear that. But... this is the only thing I've been sure of. If not for this, I'd still be some layabout sleeping in holes in the forest. I have to believe it's better to try and maybe fail then not try at all.

(have we asked her why she joined the army yet?)

Fen 2018/05/08(Tue)22:06 No. 883366 ID: bfb318
File 152584241137.png - (20.87KB , 800x800 , 1065.png )

I reach to grab her shoulder to at least see if she could hug, now.

"I'm sorry to hear of your friend. What was her name?"
>"Shilli."
"I see the parallels, but I'm not after the money or fame in of itself."
>"The path is the same, and as dangerous."
"Still. So far, my journey's been worth it. If not for it, I'd still be sleeping in holes in the ground, and I would not have met friends such as yourself. I have to believe it's better to try and maybe fail, then not fail."
>"Friends, somehow. The only lesson my tale has is to why I didn't have friends when we met."
"Because they have died?"
>"What. No. That too, but I sabotage friendships even if I don't mean to. It is stupid to talk about dead friends right as someone joins you in bed."
"It was a cautionary tale, still. Are you concerned about me?"
>"Yes. I am. I hope you mean it when you say that the journey is worth it so far. Shilli never found that feeling. Most don't get that far. As stupid as it is to think that the expression on a corpse means anything, Shilli... she didn't look like it was worth trying. She just looked like another person looking for a fantasy, and found reality instead."
"I don't intend on being another sad example or a cautionary tale. I've proven I'm strong, and I don't intend to die. I'll do more than try."
>"... It's fine to talk strong. I want to help. If I can help one ambitious person in my life succeed, then it's good enough for me."

I think this is an okay time to hug her, but I want to perhaps change the subject to something more pleasant for her sake. I'm struggling to come up with anything.

I don't think I've asked her why she's joined the army, yet.

>>883366
Yeah why don't you ask her that, then.

Don't get all huggy yet.

If she stands with you, you'll stand with her. Thank you Aria. Pause for a moment before going for a hug. Let her regain her composure.

>(have we asked her why she joined the army yet?)
I think she said she was a conscript back when we met her.

It's hard to think of a topic that would cheer her up. Hmm...

Talk with her about things she's seen that you haven't. She might have traveled a bit or she might not have, but she's more worldly in some ways than you and should at least have a few stories, right? Get her talking about the strangest thing she's ever seen or something like that. Maybe? That's more a conversation, though. You should be going to bed. How tricky.

Ask her if she has any ambitions that you might be able to help her with.

It's not exactly a pleasant topic, but perhaps you could affirm what you're doing now, on top of any dreams for the future. Think of Valsano. How is he so cheerful? Perhaps because he's already gotten what he wanted. He's fighting something blatantly horrible, created by people who don't know how badly they're wrecking things for themselves as much as for anyone else. If he dies tomorrow... he's gotten quite far, probably further than most who join the army ever go. If you die tomorrow, you've done that much, too. So has she. There's a lot to improve, in the empire, and lots about this campaign that could be better, but it is worth doing and worth being a part of. For a lot of people, just getting this far - becoming someone who successfully fights against undead monsters in ancient ruins - would be the big dream.

Obviously, you want more. You all want more. But you can appreciate where you are now, right? And you're allowed to feel good about what you're doing.

>>883384
>How is he so cheerful?
He’s drunk off his ass.

Hmm, the reason why she joined might still be too rough to lighten the mood. Ask her something simple, but still personal. Show you care about her! Maybe what her favourite thing to do was before joining the army.

We don't show pity, we show true concern. We never had a reason to show pity before, we won't have reasons now. We either care or we don't. That is how we are.
Ask her why she joined the army. Having all this new story from her makes me more curious.

Give her a hug while you talk. Hold her in your arms for warmth and to comfort her.

"You know just as many people die not following there dreams. I have seen so many miserable people barely able to survive since I came to the empire. I would rather fight for a better future and die during the attempt than to not make a attempt at all."

"So why did you join the army?"

Fen 2018/05/09(Wed)08:04 No. 883410 ID: bfb318
File 152587827110.png - (23.90KB , 800x800 , 1066.png )

She looks back at me where I can see her eye. I was about to let her regain composure, but I don't think she ever lost it.

>"You're shivering. Get in bed." I do, and get in close to Aira. I almost start to put an arm around her, but she takes my hand and keeps it at her side, though in a way that seems affectionate. I don't want to get overbearing, but she is warm, so I'm glad to get close.
"What was your favorite thing to do, before the army?"
>"Running away from home and pretending that I could be an explorer."
"Why can't you? Many people die not following their dreams, anyway."
>"It was a bad dream. And I don't mean unrealistic. I mean that I didn't actually want to be an explorer. I just wanted to run away."
"You were a conscript, right?"
>"Yes, in a standing army, not a pro-active one. It was worse than this."
"How so?"
>"The turtle army did nothing but patrol endlessly. My allies didn't want a soldier at their backs. They wanted someone to talk to, to pass the boring hours. I was so bad at that, that being on patrol with me was almost a punishment. So I joined Sir Orjin, since I knew his pawns would want someone to fight with them, not talk with them. I was much better in that situation."
"I think you're doing a fine job talking right now."
>"I think I'm doing terribly."
"Hm... We've made it beyond pawns, though. Much farther than most. We can feel good about that, can't we?"
>"I suppose so."

She hisses through her teeth. I think it was a failed laugh.

"Is something wrong?"
>"We stared death in the face and got rich. Now we're spending the money to get better equipment so that we can go try to stare down death harder."
"Valsano seems cheery about it."
>"He got enough money to buy a clean conscience, by sending it home. I don't think he'll ever leave the army no matter how far he gets anyway. I don't think I will, either."
"Do you like this?"
>"I don't know. It suits me. I appreciate you tolerating my clumsy efforts at talking, but if Hydril's training is tough and we're sent to the necromile after, then we'll be going back to what suits me for a long time. This may be the last night in awhile we can sleep easily, and with privacy."

Fen, she's hinting that this is a chance to have sex. At least acknowledge it. Personally I recommend taking her up on it.

If we survive you will always have a place by my side if you want it. I will need good trustworthy companions if I make it to the top. I already stumbled into having a spymaster somehow so some elite adventuring friends would be nice.


Seduce the Fluff.

If my dream works out I might end up with more power than I know what to do with. I could use some trusted friends to advise me. If you ever want to find private work down the road.

As for privacy what would you like to do in this tiny bed that everyone assumes we are fucking like rabbits in?

>>883410
fuck it do the sex.

I think she's hinting at something Fen.

Talking is for when you need to talk, it doesn't need to be entertainment or anything else.

>This may be the last night in awhile we can sleep easily, and with privacy.
Poor girl is getting pretty blatant with her hints.

Oh well, time to go to sleep and be well rested for tomorrow and nothing else.

Ask her if she would like to do something tonight, you might be misreading her but she seems to be giving off strong hints at a desire for affection. Since this is likely the last time either of you will have a private space (not gonna be a lot of privacy in the field) and Aira doesn't seem like the kind of girl who would appreciate an audience of rowdy soldiers when she is trying to be tender/intimate.

>suggestions saying that Aira wants sex
I’m not sure about that. I mean, maybe she is? But then again, she might not be hinting at that.

Fen 2018/05/09(Wed)09:41 No. 883431 ID: bfb318
File 152588409238.png - (16.89KB , 800x800 , 1067.png )

I have just realized that Aira might be hinting at something.

"Aira. I am not good with hints. If you're hinting at something, I'll most likely miss it, so it's best to be as blunt as possible with me."
>"I try to do that. I'm not sure what hints - "

She pauses.

>"Oh. I've been hinting at sex, haven't I. Constantly, maybe. This is why I try to be blunt. As soon as I talk in excess, I'm misunderstood."
"I expected nothing more than warmth by sleeping with you, my misunderstanding your words did not change that."
>"I think that with any other girl, you would have understood correctly. It's not that I dislike the idea, but I might not fulfill what you might expect from me."
"What do you think I would expect of you?"
>"Hrm..."

>"Would you believe me if I said I have no sexual desires?"

>>883431
yes.

>>883410
Fen, she is clearly lonely and in need of friendship and company. Offer comfortable sex.

>>883431
Shrug and say yes.

Considering how little Fen seems motivated by his own sexual desires in most circumstances, he should have no trouble believing that of someone else.

>>883433
Pfffft, what a poor time to post that. Anyway, just offer her friendship. And a scaly weight to sleep next to.

Yes. Explain that you were only asking in case those hints were deliberate and you were being oblivious.

"Yes." Good thing that got cleared up early...ish.

"I think I would. I can't say I have zero such desires myself, but I do feel I might have less such than seems expected of me. Or perhaps I simply don't wear it on my sleeve so much as others. Lily did surprise me with how much I was attracted to her, in several senses. It's always possible for something to suddenly shake up your idea of the way you are, but that applies to everything; beyond that, yes, I believe you. Do others not? The empire seems to assume a certain level of... passion from its citizens, and their soldiers especially. Has it been a problem?"

>>883431
Yes, actually. You yourself have much more subdued desire compared to your peers. You were beginning to think you were the only one with some form of restraint or below average libido.

Maybe, maybe not. Fen is not worldly enough in society at large to know much about that, he just wanted to know if he was ignoring her request or not.

I believe it. Do people usually not believe it?

>>883431
It's not hard to believe. You yourself never goes out of your way for it, either. She may be comforted by the fact that you would if she desired it, and not for any sort of vapid reasons. It can be a strong gesture of closeness, after all, even if it doesn't go as far as "love"

>>883431

"I believe you. The same was true for me before I met Lily."

Shake your head and chuckle, as you realize something.

"I'm sorry if this misinterprets your words, but you are sounding a little like how I used to be. Adrift and dissatisfied, unsure what to make of my situation, even though I arguably had it good, though every day could become a life-and-death struggle. My brother told me to just enjoy it as the peak of existence, but I never could. Then I met Lily."

Smile at her, squeeze her hand.

"It shouldn't have to take a platinum noble's prospective husband coming down here to awe you, but perhaps you shouldn't accept the way things are for you either. If you really feel the knight's life suits you, that's fine. It's just that you seemed a little resigned to your life being what it is. I never got the impression you wanted to die any time soon, so that seemed odd."

Snuggle into her.

"... really, as much as I appreciate the gesture, you do not have to live as if the best use of your life is to make my ambitions succeed. I am happy that you have - and have had - my back during this campaign, but if you find a goal worth pursuing you should take the opportunity. Having a dependable ally is worth a lot to me, but if I was to choose, a happy friend would be worth more."

Yes.

Honestly when Lily showed up it was the first person I was really attracted to in that way. Have had sex before but it was never something I chased.

But if it was with someone I cared about it seems like it would be much more fulfilling.

Yeah. Sex is a deeply personal thing and unless you get in the mood its just work. I was like that until I met Lily. Not that we have done anything mind you.

So if you find the right person or place or time you might change your mind.

I am perfectly fine just snuggling up for warmth and companionship.