He's got future-sight. The eyes let him predict what his opponent will do. That's a very difficult ability to counter. I think you might have to let him attack first and try to counter-attack. That, or force him into a situation he can't do anything about. Maybe he'll be so focused on dodging your attacks he won't notice that he's walked into a wall, or something?

Approach the two who just finished and get them to agree to your wager.

The priority should be getting away, but in case we can't let's think of ways we can win this.

How do you fight someone who always know what you gonna do?
Bett mentioned he could see his victory before the fight start, but that could be an exaggeration. We can either overwhelm him with sequences of attacks that last longer than what he is capable of predicting or move faster than he can react. Regardless only throw a punch in his direction if you are planing to follow it with many more.

Hacket want to fight multiple opponents at once, so I guess he is planning to make opportunistic attacks on any participant. This is a bad combination with Bett's eyes, because he will be able to see Hacket interrupting your combos before you and coordinate a well timed counterattack against you. So only attack Bett when Hacket is too busy to attack you.

Riker want to duel you, so she might consider defeating you in a four way fight as worthless to her oath as you letting her win. If she get up try to coordinate with her.

> World's Strongest
Okay, Imma ask bluntly: Are you #9 or #4?

> Special Eyes
Yeah, Bett can see the future. He hasn't possessed the eyes for all that long, and it shows. If you go on the offensive against him, you (probably) lose, period. Of course, there's a pretty obvious counter to it; wait for him to come to you and react to what he does. Depending on how far into the future he can observe, he may have to start an attack to see how you react, giving him little time to correct himself. Your win-state is to get him in a grapple or otherwise put him in a position where even all the foresight in the world can't save him.

> The 5th Approaches
"By the way, it was a rhetorical question, Hacket. As a duelist, I have the right to refuse any challenger, so unless you have a coin to throw at me, I'm leaving as soon as I take down Bett." Enter the ring right now. In a free-for-all, you could win easily, but everyone might gang up on you first. That won't necessarily end in your defeat, but it'll be too big of a headache in the meantime.

you know, seeing how popular fighting is amongst the postal services out here you'd think that at some point someone would abuse the fact that you're all postal workers and send out a massive invitation to all the postal branches about a tournament for all the postal fighters to get together and fight each other. Hell seeing how fight hungry some of them are they could probably make it an annual thing as well. All they'd need is a location to fight at and seeing how your guys job is to travel I'm sure someone would know of an uninhabited island or something where all this could go down.

As for purple eyes I'd say his eyes let him see the future or something close to that so he knows what you're going to do before you do it letting him put up the perfect counter. Best way to counter that I think would to be not to attack him first, to counter him forcing him to commit to his attacks so even if he can see the future he just wouldn't have the ability to shift out of a commented attack before you counter attack him. Basically just be a defensive/reactive fighter instead of an aggressive one and you'll probably take away a good amount of wind from his sails.

Also have you ever met those 2 postal workers that are on the top 10 list? If so what are they like and are they just as glory hungry as most of you competitors(?) (I mean they're all from different postal companies so I'm guessing they're competition) or more like you and just couldn't care less?

Probably worth it if you can get them to promise to leave you alone afterwards.

What are the chances you could sock'et to them without even using your kindling powers?

1/3 Ecoa 2022/03/15(Tue)03:34 No. 1026304 ID: 0d2343
File 164734045370.png - (413.51KB , 800x600 , RTS65.png )

>Are you #9 or #4?
Neither. Not even close. Truthfully, I don't know where I stand. I suspect that in my teenage years I was closer to the mid-30s.
>have you ever met those 2 postal workers that are on the top 10 list?
I've met number nine back when he was number 10, before Ackerlade "died" and consequently bumped everyone up a place. Having briefly met Primm, there is an ocean of skill difference between him and the Iron Post's strongest delivery ave. Even so, such strong individuals cause me to lose my cool, even with years of practise suppressing my emotions.


>Bett has future-sight
That seems to be one of the few logical conclusions I can come to. It's troublesome but not impossible to combat. I can wait for him to attack me, but judging from his fighting style, he will always bait others into attacking him first.

>seeing how popular fighting is amongst the postal workers, you'd think they would organize a tournament.
It has never been an organized thing. Just a coincidence, I think. At least for myself, my ability to fight was never a motivator to work for postal delivery.


I try to move past Hacket, making it my upmost priority to avoid this encounter altogether. I'm tired of this. I've never enjoyed fighting others, and I doubt I ever will.

Hacket, on the other hand, acts to block my way by turning his entire body into ice, enlarging himself in the process. Having no downsides makes casted aves some of the most annoying and difficult opponents to combat.
"Trying to go somewhere? We were just getting started. I'm gonna need you to stick around, just a little longer, ok?"
"Is that supposed to intimidate me?"
"Nothing intimidates you, that's what makes you so fun!"
"This is tiring."
"Well don't go to sleep just yet! The show's just about to start!"

>What are the chances you could sock'et to them without even using your kindling powers?
Virtually zero at this point.

2/3 Ecoa 2022/03/15(Tue)03:35 No. 1026305 ID: 0d2343
File 164734051098.png - (362.82KB , 800x600 , RTS66.png )

I go to address all that have gathered so far.
"Listen up. I don't want to fight, but I will if I have to. if this ends with all of your defeats, I want you all to leave me alone.
"As agreed earlier, you have my word."
"I can agree to those terms."
>"g-go to hell... I'll keep trying to fight until I win..."

2/3 is good enough for me. Now to see who number 5 is.

"Here he comes, the fifth fighter of the hour! I can feel a lot of energy coming from this guy, so this'll be fun."
"A fighting cluster? Not what I was expecting to get into today, but it sounds fun! Who's the big guy approaching? I call dibs!"
>"What's going on? Another clown coming over? eh... Hey I kinda recognize him. Isn’t he from the Iron Post?"

I look over to the figure they are talking about. I get a good look in and I can recognize...

O-oh... Oh god. Oh my god.

It's him.

>"He's called... What's his name... oh, that's right. The Kiln."

This complicates things a bit.

3/3 Rainer 2022/03/15(Tue)03:35 No. 1026306 ID: 0d2343
File 164734054097.png - (177.41KB , 800x600 , RTS67.png )

You are now following Rainer.

That was stupid.

Drinking was a big mistake, and I won't touch another drop until I'm off this island and I have my freedom for real.

I rummaged through the chests in the mail delivery ship, but I couldn't find a weapon to hijack it, or any other ship for that matter. All I found was junk. The only worthwhile items I could find were a book about this island and a bit of cash. I also took a coat which covers my lower side better, just in case that Pascoe guy tattled on me, and I need to conceal my chimera side better.

Ah, damn it, he has probably told vice warden Mako everything. I wouldn't be surprised if search parties are forming at this very moment. The town guards have probably already been told and are looking for someone of my description. I still have a chance though. I need to come up with a plan to get off this island and start a new life.

I am in the alleyway between a couple buildings, somewhere in the middle of the colony. I have no idea about the locations of this colony, I've only every seen it from my cell window. Being outside is a bit surreal, but I need to adapt quickly. I need an objective.

read the book and get an idea.

Short of that you're only other choice is to try and hope a a ship that's leaving but since you're in postal gear you'll have to limit it to the same postal service as you're pretending to be or bullshit some non postal ship that you have an urgent delivery to make. Just ask where they're going first and whatever answer they gave look relieved and claim you need to head out that way for an urgent delivery but your ship is undergoing dry dock repairs and while be down for too long.

Give yourself up to the authorities. We talked about this.

.....

Alright, fine. Try to buy a weapon somewhere. There's probably a store for those nearby.

We need to find a way to hide the fact that we're a chimera, just in case.

Solution: pants.

You changed your plans again? What was even the point of completing that last deliver yesterday if you no longer plan to act like a postal officer?

To take over a ship with the treat of violence you need accomplices, otherwise you will have trouble managing the hostages, specially when you need to sleep. Would you be capable of telling if the course has being changed when you were not looking?
Deception and cooperation are better tools for this first trip.

If you want to leave with the pang cake crew you need to endure their schedule. In case the uncertainty is too much for you to endure get in contact with Askot. You will need her help to keep Pascoe quiet, even if it's by selling him false hope.

Alternatively you could join a different crew with plans to leave sooner. Use your fake identity, ask for help from other postal officers as colleague, pay for passage or promise to work with them. It doesn't really matter what arrangement you reach as long as you manage to departure soon.

Objective: enjoy freedom while you still have it. Have you ever tried this new world thing called cocoa?

Would writting a note telling what happen and stealing the ship an option?

Also, if someone ask why you are covering why are you hidding the fact of being a chimera you can tell that you have a complex about it.

You'd blend in and hide a lot better acting the role as a mail courier. Get some mail and wander around a bit. You could always talk to the locals on the way and ask about the area. Play it off as being new to the new world.

Rainer 2022/06/14(Tue)12:50 No. 1034967 ID: 2edd05
File 165523624875.png - (322.42KB , 800x600 , RTS68.png )

>Give yourself up to the authorities.
No way, no how! I am not going back to prison! What happened to that Pascoe guy is unfortunate, but bad luck is a part of life.

>Buy a weapon
I can do one better, I can steal a weapon, I just need to find one.

>We need to find a way to hide the fact that we're a chimera, just in case. Solution: pants.
Do I look like royalty? This long coat will do just fine.

>You changed your plans again? What was even the point of completing that last deliver yesterday if you no longer plan to act like a postal officer?

>you could join a different crew with plans to leave sooner.
That could certainly work. Just need to find another crew, and I can try to talk my way in.

>Objective: enjoy freedom while you still have it. Have you ever tried this new world thing called cocoa?
Hell yeah I have! When I was a kid, my parents gave me some and I remember it fondly. I could never get any in prison or in my life of piracy.

>In case the uncertainty is too much for you to endure get in contact with Askot. You will need her help to keep Pascoe quiet, even if it's by selling him false hope.
Yeah that is true... If I want this possible freedom thing to stick, I should consider finding a way to shut that guy up before he finds a way to prove he isn't who they think he is.

>read the book
Right, right. let’s have a look...

...hmmmm

Yes, I can recognize a few of these words. Some of these pages even have pictures! Oh, there's a word everyone can recognize, tavern! No- no drinking! Freedom first! Let's see... houses... wealthy district... cathedral... Post office... hmmm. I really wish I had spent more time learning how to read.

While walking the alley, I see what looks to be a pair of legs attached to a chunk of ice. That's weird, I thought there weren't any anomalies on this island. Across from that is a soldier, who is smoking a pipe and isn't doing a whole lot about the legs. I'm curious to ask him about it, but I'm thinking he came here to be left alone.

Hold on, are those legs moving?

That's disturbing.

Poke it.

>>1034967
Tickle the feet.

I would pity Hacket but he was asking for trouble.

>are those legs moving?
Birds do that for a few moments after death. This bisection must have happened just a moment ago. There may be someone dangerous nearby.

Poking dead birds and watching fights might be fun but won't help you (as far as you know). Focus on what you can do to accomplish your current goal.

Since you can't read contact with Askot will require proximity. A bit more risky than I imagined.

To join another crew you will need to socialize. Meet other postal workers, make some friendly small talk, ask about their itinerary. With some luck someone who is about to departure will take a liking to you.

Asking that soldier what those leg things are while looking at them could be considered an acceptable question.

Ugh.
We are definitely going to have to drink this memory off.

>>1034977
All of this sounds good.

Though maybe ask the soldier where that half-a-body came from. If something new and weird is going on... well, one would want to know, if only to know what to avoid, yes?

...why did you take the book if you can't read?

Anyways, look at the solder and ask what's up with the legs and why they're moving.

Well, if there are no anomalies on this island and the soldier's not doing anything about it, it must not be anomalous. Avoid the soldier, look for this wealthy district. That will have the most stuff to steal.

>>1034967
When's the next Tobak quest? I dont know which questden thread to ask this in.

>>1035025
No set date yet, but soon. It will take a little, but at least it gives time to re-read the story for all foreshadowing bits it has got.

We do need a discussion thread for Roaway's quests, don't we?

Ask the guard what might have happened?

Poke

Tell his guy he's got a nice pair of legs.

1/2 Rainer 2022/07/23(Sat)19:27 No. 1039059 ID: ba0f62
File 165862963183.png - (284.19KB , 800x600 , RTS69.png )

>why did you take the book if you can't read?
I can read a map just fine, it's just the words I have a little trouble with.

I look over to the soldier.
"Why are those legs moving like that?"
>"I don't know. I don't really care either. Ignore it and it'll probably go away."
"Where did it come from?"
>"The sky. I suppose you could call it an awfully large hail stone. Not an anomaly that needs a report or paperwork. No sir."
"Shouldn't you be doing something?"
>"Like what? I came here to be left alone. I could do something, but I promised myself that I'd stay away from strange things like this. It'll help me live a longer life."
"Wise words, as disheartened as I am knowing that this is where my taxes go." I say, not trying too hard oversell it and arouse suspicion to the fact that I have never paid a tax in my life.
>"You do something. I'd be more than happy to supervise."
"I'm a postal worker, I already have a job."
>"Then do it and stop bothering me about mine."

>Poke
I'll be sure to do that.

>Tickle the legs.
I'll do it for science. I pluck out a feather and brush it along the leg scales. The legs start thrashing around, and I hear a laugh from a short distance away.

2/2 Rainer 2022/07/23(Sat)19:27 No. 1039060 ID: ba0f62
File 165862964309.png - (216.15KB , 800x600 , RTS70.png )

>"Ahahahahah! Hey! Cut that out! I'm ticklish! "

There's some guy laying on his back on a nearby roof. How did he get up there? I turn my attention to him.

"Nice legs."
>"Right back at you, pseudo-thing."
"The hell happened to you?"
>"The Kiln. The Kiln happened to me."
"Who is 'The Kiln?'"
>"Only the ninth strongest guy in the world! He works for the Iron post. Our encounter was so brief, yet I learned so much... I finally tasted crushing defeat. It tastes like... metal. The whole experience was... Incredible."
"You got your ass handed to you. Or whatever the opposite of that is."
>"It was amaaaaaazing. You should've been there and seen Ecoa's face when her dad showed up like that. She dropped the stoic act really quick, started getting all anxious. There may still be time to go and watch what happens next! It's just around the corner there, Just- H- HEY! Quit poking me."
"Oops."
>"What was I saying? Something about something I bet."
"Right. you're weird. I should... go."
>"Oh. Sure. But first, could you do me a favor and bring my legs to me? I can reattach them before the ice melts. I'd get my co-worker to do it, but I can't seem to see her anywhere."

They're still fighting around the corner? Cool, check it out.

Ecoa's dad! Go say hi! Tell him all kinds of stories about what Ecoa's been up to. They don't all have to be true.

Tell him you'll put his request on ice.

Be the upstanding gentlemen Pascoe would be and give the poor lad his legs back.

Pascoal would be really interested in meeting Ecoa's father, I'm not sure if Rainer care.
At least this information should dissuade her from attempting to force the crew to do somethi8ng by force.

On the self interest side of things, this guy is wearing a postal officer uniform. Ask when his ship is departing and try to be as friendly as you can manage. Of course this include helping him reattach his legs.

>>1039060
"What's in it for me?"

>I can reattach my legs
Well, you've seen weirder things in jail. Like those full on chimeras.

"Are you sure you're not dead or thereabouts and in denial?"

Shrug and bring him his legs... actually, might be easier to just climb up and bring him down? Less hauling up.

Fine, give him back his legs before checking out the fight, it's only polite.
But I really want to know how in the world he is still alive and I am not leaving without the most thorough answer, full thesis and all!

how heavy are the legs? would it be easier instead just to grab the guy's top half and pull it to the ground? If so do that. I would say try and be careful but... the dude is freaking cut in half, if that didn't kill him I really doubt falling a few feet will finish him off.

>>1039060
"You seem surprisingly calm for what's going to turn into a fatal injury in a few hours. Have you been shattered before?"

>>1039060
God damn magic weirdos.

>>1039060

Be concerned that there might be another half-a-bird somewhere in the vicinity, but bring the poor fool his legs all the same.

Help the bird, you need good karma

1/4 Rainer 2022/09/02(Fri)07:01 No. 1042592 ID: 84c07e
File 166212728438.png - (285.56KB , 800x600 , RTS71.png )

>Be the upstanding gentlemen Pascoe would be and give the poor lad his legs back.
Me and this Pascoe guy are nothing alike. If we were, maybe he would've put up a bit more resistance when we swapped places. He's soft, and softies shouldn't be in the new world to begin with. I did him a favor, he'll be safer in there.

>how heavy are the legs?
Too heavy for me to seriously consider bringing over to him.

>you've seen weirder things in jail.
Isn't that the truth. like those aves that got turned into chimeras, or those aves that become chimeras every full moon.

>How is he still alive
"Mind telling me how you're still alive and not bleeding all over the place?"
>"Why do you need to know? Are you another scientist sent to pester me about this? I'm casted, what's so hard to explain? I was struck by tinted lightening and given strange icy powers - I have the lichtenberg scars on my back to prove it. You think I question it? It's magic! I don't gotta explain a darn thing!"

"You seem surprisingly calm for what's going to turn into a fatal injury in a few hours. Have you been shattered before?"
>"All the time! What can I say? - fighting and violence is what brings healing to my soul."

>God damn magic weirdos.
Yep.

"What's in it for me if I help you?"
>"The nice, fuzzy warm feeling you get from helping a stranger?"
"I'll put your request on ice."
>"Heh. I get it. Funny. Anyway, can you bring me my legs?"
"Do I look like your personal courier? I have better stuff to do."
>"Yeesh! So hard to find a good Samaritan these days!"

"By the way, when is your ship departing?"
>"We just got here! Sooo I'm guessing a couple of days. Maybe three. A lot of people live here!"

>Help the bird, you need good karma
I'll get what's coming to me when I'm dead. For now, I'm not gonna bother helping someone if it doesn't benefit me. This guy can help himself.

>They're still fighting around the corner? Cool, check it out.
I walk around the corner to see this Ecoa ave sitting up against a wall all shook up. Was this ave a he or a she? He probably. I bet it's a he. It's usually a he. What is Ecoa so worried about?

2/4 Rainer 2022/09/02(Fri)07:01 No. 1042593 ID: 84c07e
File 166212730853.png - (361.55KB , 800x600 , RTS72.png )

"Incredible! You're incredible - you know that!? These eyes let me see what would happen - I just couldn't react quick enough - You truly live up to your reputation! -grk- "

3/4 Rainer 2022/09/02(Fri)07:02 No. 1042594 ID: 84c07e
File 166212733468.png - (399.60KB , 800x600 , RTS73.png )

"I can see it! I can see what you're going to do next! HAHAHAHAHAHA! OH - WOW! THIS IS GONNA HURT!"

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHahahahahahahah"

--BONG--

Ok maybe I was wrong, things were less weird in prison.

4/4 Rainer 2022/09/02(Fri)07:02 No. 1042595 ID: 84c07e
File 166212735938.png - (303.74KB , 800x600 , RTS74.png )

>Ecoa's dad! Go say hi! Tell him all kinds of stories about what Ecoa's been up to. They don't all have to be true.
I walk up to him and look at him. Iron Post huh? He is dressed up in armor from head to toe. These guys earn quite the reputation for themselves. I've heard that they have a 100% delivery rate. They can use weapons, but I can't see one on this guy. He doesn't really scare me.

He looks down at me.

"Is there something I can do for you?"

“Not really, just came along to see what was happening. Thanks for asking though, most psychopaths aren’t so polite.”

Just checking to see if you're three aves in a trenchcoat.

just seeing what's got my boss so shook up. (gesture towards Ecoa) normally they're more composed then this so it got me curious. Though now I am wondering a bit what happened here? Didn't think all the different postal companies were this competitive over delivery routes.

Well as long as everyone get's their mail on time I guess it doesn't matter to much.

I heard Ecoa's father was here and got curious. You got style! Nice to meet you.

What's the plan here? Even if Kiln's crew is about to depart soon and willing to take us, can we really make such proposal in front of Ecoa?
Maybe we should get a better idea of what he is about and his relation with her before shoving our paw in our beak.

>>1042595
Ask for his autograph.

>he doesn't really scare me
Any reason why not? Ecoa's acting scared and he did just chuck another (weirdo) postal officer at least a hundred meters off and up. Maybe he's taking out the competition.

>less weird in prison
Or maybe weird fights like this between super-powered people are just normal now and you're the weird one for thinking it weird. Better act cool. So... like you have been, really.

>"Is there something I can do for you?"
"Not unless you've got sightseeing recommendations. Had a bit of a rough delivery last night, still a bit zonked out so I'm taking it easy today. Though, that's my coworker over there - they're running deliveries. Or should be."

Hook a thumb in Ecoa's direction, seem bemused.

Introduce yourself as Ecoa's coworker and ask for directions.
Also, tell him about the ripped in half guy he left in the alley. It doesn't hurt to have a small amount of sympathy. Tends to earn connections.

Not right now, but when you leave, help the icy guy in exchange of a place in his boat as stowaway without questions.

Just checking in on our co-worker.

Rainer 2022/11/10(Thu)09:44 No. 1048967 ID: 481e64
File 166810226074.png - (414.88KB , 800x600 , RTS75.png )

>Why doesn't he scare you?
I have no fear. Well, one fear. But I don't see any of it around.

"Not really, just came along to see what was happening. Thanks for asking though, most psychopaths aren’t so polite."
>"Psychopath? I'd ask that you reserve judgement until you know me a little better. However, I do appreciate my manners being acknowledged"
"I guess I got the wrong idea from you throwing that dude just then. Silly me. I'm actually a little curious as to why my boss is all shook up."
>"Your boss?"
"Ecoa. You know her, right? You're supposed to be her dad." I point over at her, she shrinks back.
>"Ah. Yes, you would be correct. Though we've never been properly introduced. She seems to get nervous when I am around. I sense she fears making a bad impression. Here, take a seat."
He sits down on a pile of rocks and invites me to sit next to him. Why not.
"Mind if I make sure real quick you're not just three aves in a trench coat?"
>"I give you my word that I am but a single ave."
"What was with the brawl? Is mail delivery usually this competitive?"
>"I would say it is something beyond that. New World postal work attracts the eccentric, warriors being no exception. And what of you, little pseudogryph? It seems the prospect has also attracted you."
"Ah you know. Why turn up a good opportunity when it waddles up to you all vulnerable when it’s dark and wet and isolated. Got any good sightseeing recommendations?"
>"The New World has many. Most are too difficult and dangerous for someone like you to get to."
"You're probably right about that. Why are you called the kiln? You a kindler?"
>"Yes"
"Can you... please never use it near me?"
>"Hm. I can tell why you wouldn't want that. I can do that for you."
"Thanks. There's an icy guy torn in half and thrown on a roof over there. Know what that's about?"
>"I recognize who you are talking about. I never got his name. I predict he is fine?"
"For the most part - as fine as a torn in half guy can be. I would've helped him if he had a better attitude."
>"I see."
"You got style. Just wanted to say that."
>"Thank you. I take pride in the appearance of my uniform."
"Is your crew ready to depart soon? Wondering if you're taking passengers."
>"I do not travel with a crew. I am here on my own and will be for a while."
"Alone? The Iron Post seems wild. Aren't you guys allowed to have weapons? Where's yours?"
>"The Iron Post has its place. Simply put, some things require delivering. No matter the cost. I do not have a weapon with me as I do not need one."
"Watcha delivering? Got a lot to do?"
>"I am not at liberty to give out that information. Our client's details are confidential." Professional and polite. I can respect that.
"Neat. Do you do autographs?"
>"I don't see why not. What would you like me to sign?"

I look over at Ecoa who is still looking very freaked out.

>What would you like me to sign?
I think we have a lose piece of paper shoved inside the book with a phoenix illustration on the cover. It's already wrote over but it's either that or the admittedly appropriately themed fire bird book itself.

Things seem to be going well between you two. Convincing him to take you as a travelling companion seem feasible but there is no much point if he won't depart before your current crew.
He should be able to protect you against local law enforcement, but it doesn't seem likely that he would go this far for a stranger. Still if things go south it would be better to seek his help than Ecoa, who will not be well dispose with us when she find out we replaced her colleague.

Let's hear whatever stories he is allowed and willing to tell.
What was Ecoa like she was a chick? Were you always this intense? Do you have a tale you enjoy boasting? Any advice you think I may need?

Ask him to sign the back of your coat of course, and give Ecoa a cheeky wave while he's doing it. While we're at it, acquire embarrassing stories about Ecoa.

Ask him to sign your beak, or better yet, Ecoa's beak. Or just your hat, if we don't want to be an ass about it.
Ask how he got so strong, I mean sure he's a kindler but that didn't look like fire-fist strong, that looked like regular strong.

Also yes, definitely give Ecoa a cheeky wave.

Have him sign a simple piece of paper, makes it easier if we might want to “borrow” his signature later.

>>1048976
Rainer is illiterate.

>Ecoa was a she
Damn, you did get it wrong.

>autograph
Scrap of paper would do, if you have it, but coat also seems like it'd work. Or, ooh, the hat! Probably easier to do that one, coat could get awkward.

Then thank him for his time and the autograph, wish him all the best with whatever errand he's on about. You'd better continue your... sightseeing, before Ecoa recovers and realizes you're feeling far better than you were letting on. Unless you'd care to actually join them on their run, after all?

>I can tell why you wouldn't want that
So, you're afraid of fire? Any particular reason?

well you do have that book you can't read. Could have him sign that.

>>1048973
Sign Ecoa's beak for sure.

Encourage Mister Ironbird to have a talk with Ecoa about duels and where they stand in each other's eye and to sign the inside of Ecoa's hat, so she always remembers that her dad loves her.

Signing the back of your coat or even somewhere on your hat would be cool.

1/3 Rainer 2022/12/28(Wed)13:00 No. 1052760 ID: 481e64
File 167226121203.png - (313.86KB , 800x600 , RTS76.png )

"What was Ecoa like when she was young?"
"I cannot say. I wasn't around when she was young."
"Were you always this intense?"
"There was a time when I was more easy going. long before I started delivering to the new world."
"Do you have a tale you enjoy boasting?"
"I prefer not to boast. It is unbecoming of me. I have experienced a lot, and that I am proud of."
"Any advice you think I may need?"
"Trust and honesty - especially with your colleagues. Proper communication is more important than you may think. The vast majority of conflict in this world can be resolved with words."
Trust and honesty my ass. If the others find out who I really am, they'll call for the guards to throw me back in that mossy cell.
"What about Ecoa? Think she wants to have a talk?"
"Perhaps at another time. There is too much to say and too little time. I must return to work soon."

>Write autograph on the coat/hat
What if it comes off in the wash? Then how am I supposed to sell it?

>Rainer is illiterate.
I'll have you know that I am in the top ten percent of semi-literate chimeras. I can recognize - like - twenty words.

>So, you're afraid of fire? Any particular reason?
I don't want to think about it...

>>Ecoa was a she
>Damn, you did get it wrong.
Eh. A broken clock is right once a day so even without the educated guess I had a chance of getting it right.

>I think we have a loose piece of paper shoved inside the book with a phoenix illustration on the cover.
I open the books and flip through for loose papers and sure enough, there's a note with weird circles all over it. The other side is mostly blank so I can use that.

I hand him the sheet of paper and he inspects it.
>"You would like me to write on this?"
"Yep. Just be sure to get your name on there somewhere. Nice and big preferably. You're pretty famous, right?"
>"You could say. May I ask where you got this sheet music from?"
"I dunno. Don't care."
>"It is fascinating. A song which can bring back the dead is far more valuable than my signature, perhaps you are hoping to add further value? A clever idea."
"Really? What kinda value we talking here?"
>"If you find a collector in the wealthy district, possibly moons."
"w-WHAT?!"

I take the paper after he finishes writing on it and put it into my satchel. I quickly wave my goodbye and start making my way over to Ecoa so we can make our way to the wealthy district!

2/3 Rainer 2022/12/28(Wed)13:00 No. 1052761 ID: 481e64
File 167226123590.png - (267.09KB , 800x600 , RTS77.png )

"Hey Ecoa we ready to go?"

She walks up over to me and puts her hands on my shoulders

>"D-Did he say anything about me? What does he think about me?"
"Hey! Watch it! no need to get up all in my face. What's wrong with your arm..."

"Is it-"

FIRE

FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE

FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE
FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE
FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE

FIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIRRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

3/3 Pascoe 2022/12/28(Wed)13:01 No. 1052764 ID: 481e64
File 167226127617.png - (318.65KB , 800x600 , RTS78.png )

"Uh... Thanks for the light?"
>"You are not Rainer."
"That's what I've been telling people! but nobody wants to believe me!"
>"You resemble Rainer quite a bit so you may have fooled the aves. But you're not fooling me or any of the other chimeras. What did Rainer have to do for you to take her place?"
"Excuse me? You think I want to be in here? I'm not working for her, I don't even know who she is!"
>"So it's just a coincidence huh? They went looking for her and bagged the wrong person?"
"She put her clothes on me and took mine! I don't know how but she overpowered me. She’s probably out there, delivering my mail as we speak..."
>"Right place at the right time... Why does a rotten person like her get all the luck?"
"Her luck is gonna run out as soon as I can find someone that listens to me. Can you tell someone? A guard maybe?"
>"They won't listen to me."
"How about one of the other inmates then can they bring word to the warden?"
>"Do I have to tell you why that's a very, very bad idea?"
"Yes?"
>"Many of the girls here haven't had the attention of a male chimera in years. They see you and their first thought won't be to swap you back for Rainer. There will be riots if you get found out.
"That's... flattering? Are female chimeras really like that? Excluding Rainer, you're the only chimera I've ever met so I don't know anything about... chimeras."
"Inexperienced uh? Well, you're about to learn."

right... so, how do I go about getting the warden's ear since I was told if I can get to him he'd be able to tell I'm not Rainer. Also any advice on... here? Not going to lie, never been to prison before so I really don't know what to expect or do... or how to blend in pretending to be someone else to avoid the attention of the entire female population. Wow, when you say it out loud it sounds like the plot to one of those dime store romance novels. What is my life?

"Heheh. This is kind of like one of those shitty novels where it seems like this would be a dream but when you really think about it you realize how terrifying it actually is."
Do we know for certain when the other warden is coming back? We want to be able to tell the main warden but we can't wait until our ship leaves assuming Rainer successfully duped our crew.
Maybe we can lie and say we're neutered or otherwise medically incapable? I know lying's a bad idea but if it can save our hide...

What put her eye out? Was it her penchant for starting fights with a candle?

You won't be here for long if there's riots over you, regardless - that'd for sure be a way for the guards to discover the truth. Though you'd prefer it not come to violence - and such - which is why you kept mum after Askot suggested it.

Apparently your best bet is with meeting the real actual Warden? Vice-Warden Mako's supposedly not... very observant, and may not even care about your situation even if he does find out. Since you've done nothing wrong you'd love to not fall through the cracks of an uncaring prison system.

>You're about to learn
Uh. Don't like the sound of that. Let's distract one-eye - what's her name now again? - with CONVERSATION so she doesn't take out her frustrations on us out of whatever misplaced grumpiness and reveals your little temporary secret.

>Rotten gal
What'd this Rainer do to end up in here and earn her enmity, anyway? Besides the, er, glaringly obvious.

You're asking because you might need to know if you're to chase her down and get your job back and return her to this cell. The sooner you get out of here the better, after all, given that your job involves travel and Rainer will be on a ship outta here in a few days if she can keep up the ruse.

Sadly your mail carrier companions are aves and not super likely to notice what's up either.

Let's learn more about Rainer.

Who are talking with? What happened since waking up?

We know very little about the prison. If we have no choice but keep quiet we need to know how much freedom of movimente we have, what procedures are obligatory and how to fulfill any prisoner duties without being found out. Food, for example, is usually served in a common area so we will need someone to bring us portion. This lead to the difficult but crucial component needed to archive such goal: co-conspirators. We need a few chimeras willing to help us hide and survive in this environment. Considering their fame this arrangement will likely involve Pascoe being passed around. If we believe the claims that the guards won't help he have no other choice.

Focusing back on the immediate present:
"What do you mean I'm about to learn?"
Serious dude, you need allies even if you have to become a gigolo to trade for help, try to make this work for her. Don't struggle against what she is about to do but negotiate her cooperation in exchange.

"Maybe a riot's exactly what I and a few others need right now? If normal escapees get caught, maybe the correct strategy is to simply gang up and route the guards?"

Of course, let him explain why a riot is unequivocally not what is needed right now; it's probably a different kind of riot from what we were thinking of.

>>1052790
If this is a male inmate why would he be alone with what was presumed to be a female prisoner? If this was allowed to happen there would be no reason for riots.

I just realize this is Rainer's cellmate who she blinded. The candle was because she was aware of the fire trauma and intended to make her freak out.
Took me a while to connect the dots...

Pascoe 2022/12/29(Thu)14:09 No. 1052856 ID: 481e64
File 167235175503.png - (215.06KB , 800x600 , RTS79.png )

>What happened since waking up?
All that happened since waking up was me being brought to this cell.

"What do you mean I'm about to learn?"
>"I mean you’re gonna learn. Plenty if necessary. You look like the curious type, so ask away."

"You know, this is kind of like one of those novels where it seems like this would be a dream but when you really think about it you realize how terrifying it actually is."
>"One time a breeze carried over a scarf belonging to one of the males from the male prison. They are still rebuilding that cell block."
"W-what?!"

"How do I go about getting the warden's ear since I was told if I can get to him, he'd be able to tell I'm not Rainer"
>"Warden's a She. And she would listen, but the issue for you is getting to her. Recently she has fallen ill and has passed the reigns to that little bonehead, Mako. He is running the show now, so you'll need to talk to him."
"Do you know when she is coming back?"
>"Who knows. it could be days."
"Any advice on... here? Not going to lie, never been to prison before so I really don't know what to expect or do"
>"Easy. Keep your head down but don't be a wimp. Though admittedly, you are a special case. Whatever you do, don't bring attention to yourself."

"I'd like to know more about Rainer."
>"She's cocky, selfish, crafty and she gauged my eye out. hopefully that tells you everything. One thing that stands out is her pyrophobia, which is the extreme fear of fire. Even so much as candles can set her off and talking about it puts her on edge. She anticipates the threat of fire in any place or situation even if there isn't any real danger. I don't know how she developed it but from what I can tell, she's always had it."
"Is that what that candle is for?"
>"Yeah. If she were here, she'd be cowering on the floor right now. Instead, I got you blankly staring at me."
"Sorry about that. What did Rainer to do end up in here?"
>"Be a pirate. I don't know if she was the violent kind - not that it matters. Her choices were either 'rehabilitation' or the gallows. Many of the other inmates had a similar ultimatum."
"What did you do to get in here?"
>"You really shouldn't ask that type of question to people in here."
"A-ah..."


"Can I know your name? So, we can be friends, and all that."
>"It's not too important, but whatever. My name is Teller. Who are you?"
"Pascoe - of the Maritime Postal Alliance."
>"A postie. How quaint. Listen. You want to get back at Rainer as much as I do, right? Then we should cooperate. I believe in an eye for an eye, and that's exactly what she has coming. You take your life back, I get my revenge. sound good?"
"I don't feel like I have a choice in the matter."
>"That's the spirit. Now stay still while I put on some makeup."
"Wait- What?!"
>"You need to look more like Rainer before the guards call us out for the headcount. No way you're letting the secret out before we can set a plan in motion."
>"What's makeup gonna do? I'm pretty sure it's obvious I'm not a lady!"
"I don't mean to be mean but... you're not that masculine. At all. Your height matches Rainer's and your bodies are even similar in shape. Just stay away from other pseudogryphs and nobody will notice the difference. The voice is a different story... just keep quiet for now."
"Other pseudogryps? Why stay away from them?"
>"They'll notice your scent."
"I have a scent?!"
>"You do. Now. Do you want to blend in and not get caught long enough to plot an escape with me? Or do you want to cause a riot?"

Oh, that's an option? A riot sounds like a great way to escape in the chaos!

>>1052857
Not if the riot is about tearing us limb from limb.

Anyways yeah, does she have makeup that can simulate a neck scar? Maybe we can pretend our throat is healing so we can't speak.

No riots, please, thank you.

Let's get some fake eyelashes.

"Is there a betting pool on whether the warden's illness was an attempted poisoning by the vice-warden? If there isn't, you should start one. That guy seemed to benefit the most, plus if it was a disease, you'd think it'd be making the rounds with the other occupants here. I think it's plausible enough to warrant investigation, at least, after you're done helping me set my problem straight."

If this chimera thinks we don't want a riot, I wouldn't question it; let them do you up, but do ask the following: "Do we have to pretend we're enemies? How do we avoid blowing that part of my cover without putting me in danger from uh... you?"

well a riot can always make a good plan B... maybe should move that down to pan C... possible Z.

Alright fine, I'll were the makeup. But how do you get makeup in a prison?

The claims about the females are only getting more extravagant, calling attention to how she isn't acting according to her own descriptions. She is probable exaggerating to scare us into dependence, but it could be that she is controlling herself for the sake of the greater goal of revenge. With the risk of the second option being true it's better to not question her about it in case she want to explore the subject further, unless you actually want to do it.
If at any point in the future she or another prisoner seek intimacy from you my advice remain the same: negotiate. That will still be true if you somehow find yourself in the male section and your feminine physique cause a similar situation. Don't let the situation escalate to the point you are forced against your will with nothing to gain in exchange, it would be worst.

I know the eyelashes are the standard gender indicator for cartoon animals, but that can't be literal because if it was the gender blindness between aves and gryphs wouldn't make sense. What can she do to make you look even more like Rainer?

A pertinent question for any plans moving forward is the mailing service we have available. How do we send letters? If possible we should send many as soon as possible to maximize the chances of reaching someone in time without interceptions.

>a scarf
Wait, quick aside: it was a scarf from a male chimera? Could be a coincidence, but you got told about a scarf-wearing, chipper deaf chimera not too long ago from a sense-blinded postie ave called Riquar. Though that was supposed to be a her. Teller hasn't seen anyone like that around, has she?

... would honestly be pretty funny if there's a female chimera in the other block, doing the same thing your are now only opposite. Though, if this is the same person, it could also be Riquar was just genderblind.

>Plans
Would you be able to convince Mako you're not Rainer by exposing yourself to fire in his presence? It seems a pretty obvious tell.

>Riot or not?
No riot. You'll do what she asks and try to stay mum - but would Rainer really do that? - but if you can figure out an objectively better plan than whatever this is - like the one mentioned with fire and Mako - you might go for it. Plotting an escape from a place that's never been escaped from before - well, before now - seems like a lot.

Actually that scarf thing gives you an idea! You could pretend Teller messed up your voicebox so hard you have trouble speaking. Cover up your neck with rags and speak only in a hoarse whisper. A voice for an eye also seems pretty legit, yeah?

>Proposals for chimeras
One more thing - all the chimera here get proposals in order to be let out again you hear. What do these proposals involve? Plaintooth was talking about mulling over a proposal and she mentioned she wanted to have her own uniform... so it sorta sounded like she was getting recruited into an army?

>>1052856
Causing a riot in a different part of the prison could encourage a lockdown, which would buy time since it'd mean we could stay isolated. If a piece of clothing can cause that, then why not do that on purpose?
...wait all your clothes got stolen, and you probably haven't been wearing your prison clothes long enough... maybe later?

Well, a little makeup wouldn't hurt. We can always fall back on causing a riot later if worst comes to worst.

1/3 Pascoe 2023/01/20(Fri)12:38 No. 1054220 ID: 481e64
File 167424713321.png - (353.92KB , 800x600 , RTS80.png )

>well a riot can always make a good plan B... maybe should move that down to pan C... possible Z.
A last resort sounds good to me. I will have to exhaust all other options first.

"Alright you can put on makeup… just a little though, right?"
>"Hold still and let me do my stuff."
She brings out a box that was hidden behind a loose brick in the wall, inside is where she keeps a supply of makeup and tools.

"Is that allowed? How did you even get those in here?"
>"I'm not letting out that kind of information - even if we are cooperating. This stuff is gold in here so I better not see you rub it off."
"o-ok. just... be quick, right?"
>"don't rush me. turn around."

She proceeds to apply fake eyelashes to my eyelids as well as makeup here and there. After that she starts messing around with my feathers, trimming them and brushing them. She tries to gossip with me all the way through, but I don't really have much to comment on in terms of prison drama.

"And done!"
I take a handheld mirror and look at my reflection.
"Was the blush really necessary?"
>"Oh hush. You look pretty."
"Think this'll be convincing? I don't think I'm sure about this."
>"You look just like her. The only thing you need to hide now is that boyish voice of yours."
"Boyish? hey!"

>You could pretend Teller messed up your voicebox so hard you have trouble speaking. Cover up your neck with rags and speak only in a hoarse whisper.
"Here's an idea, what if you gave me a scarf and I could act like I've got something wrong with my throat? like you messed it up or I got a cold or something."
>"Not a bad idea... It'll also get some lady scent on you, so your boy stink doesn't give you away."
"Heyyyyy!"
She wraps a scarf around my neck. It looks nice. feels nice too. I ask her to paint a scar on my neck for me to show to people if they ask why I'm putting on a raspy voice. Teller agrees that it is a good idea. After all that is done, she sits down on her bed.

>"We have time to burn, let's have some chit-chat."

2/3 Pascoe 2023/01/20(Fri)12:39 No. 1054221 ID: 481e64
File 167424715833.png - (347.41KB , 800x600 , RTS81.png )

"Is there a betting pool on whether the warden's illness was an attempted poisoning by the vice-warden?"
>"The chances are low but never zero. As spineless as Mako is, I don't think he has the guts to kill anyone. He's a pencil pusher at the end of the day and all other methods he's employed to try get the warden out of the picture have all been non-violent schemes."

"Do we have to pretend we're enemies? How do we avoid blowing that part of my cover without putting me in danger from uh... you?"
I wouldn't worry about that. Rainer and I never fought openly and I'm not keen on actually putting any real scratches on you. I certainly won't mind if you want to go out and spread rumours of me roughing you up though."

>you got told about a scarf-wearing, chipper deaf chimera not too long ago from a sense-blinded postie ave called Riquar. Though that was supposed to be a her. Teller hasn't seen anyone like that around, has she?
It's worth asking.
"Hey teller, I have a mild curiosity. I'm on the lookout for a chimera. I'm told she's deaf, wears a scarf and has a chipper personality. Know anybody like that?"
>"Deaf... actually, you know what? I think there is someone like that in here. Is she still here? I'm not sure. your description lines up with someone pretty well. She has big crosses over her ears. That ring a bell?"
"It might. How did she get those?"
>"I don't know. I never asked. Communicating with her is a real hassle with having to wait for her to write on that little chalk board of hers. She's nice otherwise."
"Know where I can find her?"
>"Not really. I'm sure you can find her hanging around the courtyard after breakfast. Why? You trying to score a date? cute."
"It's not like that! More like fulfilling a request."

3/3 Pascoe 2023/01/20(Fri)12:39 No. 1054222 ID: 481e64
File 167424718821.png - (418.43KB , 800x600 , RTS82.png )

"Hey R-r-r-reiner! I-I mean I-I-In... Inmate."
It's the ave guard with the speech impediment again.
"The vice w-w-w-warden wa-wants to see you. W-w-when-when you want that is. H-he says it's no rush, but he wants a m-m-m-meeting-ing with you. One on o-one. Today p-preferably."

If what I picked from that is right, it sounds like the vice warden wants to meet with me and only me. Seems I can choose to go now or leave it to later. What does he want? Does he believe me now?

>Would you be able to convince Mako you're not Rainer by exposing yourself to fire in his presence? It seems a pretty obvious tell.
Oh yeah! If mako knows about Rainer's pyrophobia, I can prove I'm not her by getting nice and close to fire.

Hm, not sure if that will really help convince the inmates, wearing makeup seems very un-Rainerly.
The vice warden's in no rush? Good, neither are we, we've got lots to do in here after all! There's floor tiles to count and tallies to scratch, and we're hoping to get a free lunch out of this identify theft at least.

>>1054220

You Prettyscoe, now.

>>1054222

Did the vice warden say why, by any chance?

>>1054221
Oh god, he looks like flapjack asking knuckles if he can be an adventurer just like him when he grows up

>>1054222
well your cellmate knows more about the vice warden than you do, ask her if this seems like a good thing or a bad thing.

> Plant a Tantalizing Suggestion
If you can still talk to Teller once Mr. Stutter is gone: "Hey, the odds of a poisoning are low, but do you think they're plausible enough that we can try a 'non-violent scheme' of our own? After all, if a gutless pencil-pusher wanted to bump someone off, it'd probably be with poison, right? Like, maybe we - total adversaries in every way - both saw one of the cooks get summoned by Mako on different occasions; maybe I noticed it just before the Warden started to fall ill, and you saw it again after she left on medical leave? We could give similar descriptions that could be one of several people on the kitchen staff, and be vague on who the messenger was. Obviously, we 'don't know' what they discussed, but it's enough to plant the seed of an idea in most anybody with a bit of imagination in them, yeah?"

A seed most would find themselves wanting to water and spread, at that; we already know that basically nobody here is sympathetic to him. Heck, some might continue to perpetuate the narrative even after they realize it's a lie. Plus, since the "facts" fueling the rumor don't involve accusing him of anything outright, him denying it may come off as suspicious rather than reasonable. That is, unless he calls it out for what we're trying to suggest, which just draws more attention to the treacherous possibility. Let the imagination (and when that fails, mischief) of inmates and guards alike run wild.

Of course, if she likes this idea, Teller should tell you any information you'll need for your part; that vague description, a plausible position from which you could have spotted the first summons, when exactly the Warden fell ill, etc.


> Where To?
Let's head to breakfast, see if we can watch the kitchen conspicuously while we decide who to socialize with. If someone asks, say that we were looking to see if we could spot the cook we saw; and when they ask about that, explain what it is you "saw."


> Plan B?
We should also ask around for how to reach out to postie groups to try and sign yourself up for public service (in Reiner's name, ehuehuehue) - hopefully, you can reach out to your crew specifically.

Hm. You’ll try for later today, maybe? You wanna find that other chimera and pass on the message, for one. Also, you don’t know for sure if the vice-warden will even let you go even if he does realize you’re not Reiner - this place collects chimera after all and the purpose of that hasn’t quite been sussed out yet. If he’s a real dingus, he’ll bury you just so he can pretend Reiner didn’t actually successfully escape on -his- watch!

Might wanna present a purely theoretical scenario to ‘im asking about what he’d do.

>>1054220
Pascoe: have confusing and slightly-troubling thoughts about seeing yourself in makeup

>>1054220
Are her fingers literally feathers?
While crimson on golden can be very stylish I suspect that's not a design feature of the scissors.
Can you brush feathers? I honestly have no idea.

"Hey Berascus, how do I look?" I'm very curious about how this translate for an ave.
Are the guardas assigned to specific prisoners? He seem to be your watcher no matter where you go.

Let's meet Mako. From Pascoe's point of view talking his way out of this should still sound possible. The only downside of succeeding would be the possible lost of access to the deaf chimera, but that's a low priority compared to securing our freedom.
Since there is a possibility that Mako wouldn't release us even if he believe we are a different person let's avoid the topic of gender. Assuming the riots threats are true, if he became aware of this imminent disaster he might transfer us.
So, important to inform him: name is Pascoe, postal officer, and our crew is scheduled to leave in two days. That is how long he have if he want to capture Rainer. And we strongly advise contacting the crew beforehand to avoid a conflict due to a misunderstanding, preferable with us tagging along.

>>1054274
Agree with everything here

Try for later today, you're recovering from a little fight right now and can't speak well. You could even really sell it by whispering to Teller and having her relay the message.