The Klangg who has found herself in a dark place.

the mraach hexadept (no idea what any of those means)

Let's go for the Klan g!

The Mraach seems like she might have the most interesting adventure.

Klangg

Klangg

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/14(Sun)05:59 No. 611590 ID: 7e38be
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the curious machinations of the Fates chooses to disturb the underling Klangg; a petty thief caught looting the dead by a group of Mraach soldiers. she was to be transferred to a penal military colony, but as the Klangg slept in the uncomfortable wagon seat, a calamity of some sort struck. she lies in the dark, half buried under the ruins of her rolling prison.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/14(Sun)05:59 No. 611591 ID: 7e38be
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the Fates tap directly into the mortal's mind, drinking her thoughts.

I awaken slowly. my hands are bound in thick hexsteel manacles, there is a stabbing pain in my right side and right shoulder, and I can't see anything. somewhere Arenei is laughing at me.

>>611591
Wake up and realize you're pinned under rubble.

try to shift the rubble off of you slighting and crawl forwards

can you move, do you know where you are? Why do you have menacles? Also, there is a corpse next to you, could it have the key?

You appear to have a wagon broken over your back. Or maybe just a beam. Can you crawl out?

There's someone in a spikey skull mask impaled behind you, on your right. Does that sound like one of your captors? If so, maybe you can find the key to your shackles on him.

What do you remember about how you got here? Who's Arenei?

>Arenei is laughing at me.
sure that isn't just us? I mean we're not laughing yet but time makes fools of us all.

Pull yourself together, and slowly pull the cart off your torso. Jiggle it so that the debris on top of the cart falls off, lightening the load.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/14(Sun)17:40 No. 611753 ID: 7e38be
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>>611592

I am awake, Daemon, and well aware of the rubble on top of me. I can probably slip out from under it, if I could move my arms, but the shackles are restricting my movement, and I can't find my lockpicks. I managed to sneak them past the two guards but the belt I keep them in is gone.

>>611609

I know where I am in a gerneral sense. I am in the underkingdom. probably in a Mraach province, likely on the side of a deep road.

I have manacles on because I am a prisoner. some Mraach caught me pulling gold fillings out of some corpses. Mraach don't like people touching their corpses except for them.

I can see the corpse but I can't reach it from here. besides, that one is Ulric, the lesser of the two guards. if I were to find the keys, I would need to locate Strauss, who appears to be absent.

>>611615

Arenei is my patron deity. she has a twisted sense of humor.

>>611654

the rubble is heavier than I can manage. I'm not a very strong person.

>>611753
Unless you have magical powers you're gonna have to call out for help.

well since you seem to be sticking around for the moment maybe you can take in your surroundings. Might be able to find something to help you out. if nothing else see if you can't find something to use as a lever and see if you can't make enough room for you to slip out.

>the rubble is heavier than I can manage. I'm not a very strong person.
Hmm. Instead of trying to push the rubble up, could you try pushing yourself down? You appear to be in a small indent in the ground. If you got low enough, and tried moving to your left (the weight is on your right side), you might be able to get in a position where you're under the debris, with the full weight on the ground, not you. That might make it easier to get out.

We'd offer a hand, but well, we're somewhat insubstantial, here.

>Arenei is my patron deity. she has a twisted sense of humor.
Oh! We'd probably get along, then.

>>611753
If you value your survival, then dig. Use your mandibles. EAT DIRT TO LIVE. Your survival depends on it.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/16(Tue)00:41 No. 612313 ID: 7e38be
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>>611760

no magical powers I'm afraid, just the standard Paralytic venom. I doubt that'll help me though, unless Strauss comes within biting or touching distance, that is.

>>611761

I can't see much. Klangg have poor eyesight, I'm afraid. I have very keen ears, though. as far as I can tell nothing but me is moving around in the nearby area. as far as echoes go I can tell I am in a small chamber, probably little bigger than the wagon. there are a few exits, some big enough for me to squeeze through, if I can get out from under this wagon.

>>611764
>>611773

you're right. I'm gonna die if I don't get out from under this rubble. I shift my weight onto my right side. white hot pain shoot through my side as I feel metal scrape my ribcage.

I think I found my lockpicks.

despite the certainly unique sensation of my chest cavity's real estate becoming home to the no doubt contaminated iron of my thieve's tools, I dig into the dirt under my hip and manage to spread the opening slightly.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/16(Tue)00:42 No. 612314 ID: 7e38be
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I shift back and feel the weight of the wagon let off of me. I might be able to wiggle my way out in just a few minutes.

>>612315
Support the wagon or it'll collapse fully on you! Just work on picking those locks so you can do some real work getting out from under there.

move!

not sure if you have that much time, so uh move faster if you can... and maybe see if you can't remove the lock picks form you chest, that doesn't look healthy in the slightest.

Get away from the debris as fast as you can, and then do something about the lockpicks. Do not take them out unless you are in danger of something hitting them. Find a medic as soon as possible, scavenge the area for a medical crate or something!

...I don't think you have a few minutes. If you don't drag yourself out of there fast, you're going to be crushed.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/18(Thu)02:16 No. 612867 ID: 7e38be
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>>612317
>>612325

right. pick the locks. I need to pick the locks. I need to stay calm and-

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/18(Thu)02:17 No. 612868 ID: 7e38be
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>>612321
>>612327
>>612378

I NEED TO MOVE VERY FAST.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/18(Thu)02:17 No. 612871 ID: 7e38be
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victory! a small one, at least.

I'm still trapped in a cave, and I'm still filled with lockpicks, what should I do next?

scrap some bits of clothing to make a bandage, remove picks,apply bandage.

Look around and describe your surroundings. Go to the landmark that looks like the best chance for shelter.

We also need to head to a safer location as well, the other guard may be nearby.

well you're free to move around now, so scavenge anything useful you come across and look for a way out… maybe some new threads as well if you can find some, you know something that doesn't scream "I'm an escaped prisoner, arrest me." Might help when you actually run across someone. Oh and maybe see if you can't find something to bandage up your wounds as well. Would really suck for you to get free just to bleed out later or die of an infection.

>what should I do next?
Roll over into a more comfortable position. Check how bad the injury in your side is, start picking those cuffs off, and look around your surroundings.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/18(Thu)23:42 No. 613129 ID: 7e38be
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>>612920

Comfort achieved.

the wound is not bleeding too badly, all things considered. the punctures are very thin, and the picks are blocking the blood from flowing out. what I'm really worried about is infection. these lockpicks are pretty dirty, and Klangg are notoriously susceptible to illness.

>>612872

well I don't exactly have a surplus of covering. Klangg don't like wearing too much, any direct contact to our skin is really uncomfortable and itchy.

I guess I could use a sock, but then I'd be barefoot in the dark, or I might be able to salvage some cloth from Ulric, but who knows how sanitary any of his clothes might be.

>>612902

I'm wearing pretty standard dress. granted, I probably still look like a criminal, but that's more of a racial image than one based upon my clothing.

>>612889
>>612901

well there is the wagon. it's pretty messed up, and as far as I could tell when I was riding in it it was pretty nearly empty of supplies. it had some food and water in it, but nothing else.

Ulric has the standard equipment of a Mraach peacekeeper, he has a heavy armored overcoat, a rebreather filled with methane, a rifle that non-Mraach are likely to detonate themselves handling, and a very nasty looking war hatchet.

I scope out two possible tunnels, one on each side of the wagon. there is a large tunnel that the Wagon likely fell through, but I'm not gonna be able to reach that. I notice the slightest bit of light coming from the upper tunnel.

so should I remove the lockpicks, should I bandage myself up, should I scavenge something from the wreck, and which direction should I start heading?

some food and water couldn't hurt, if nothing else you could use the water to try and clean your wound. As for where to go, where were the Mraach trying to take you, as in into the tunnels or out of? Because I suggest walking the opposite way they were trying to take you. Maybe take the hatchet as well, never know when you'll come across a barred path and a few good hatchet swings could unbar it for you. Oh and are you any good at fighting?

>>613129
Remove the lockpicks. Like you said the punctures are thin. You won't bleed out, and lockpicks are useful. Look for something from the wreck to rinse the wound with, then bandage it.

>so should I remove the lockpicks
Yes. It's nearly certain that the advantage of having your hands free (after you pick the lock on your cuffs) is more than worth the risk of removing the picks.

>should I bandage myself up
Well, you're right that dirty bandages aren't ideal. Risk of infection and all. Still, I'd take that risk over a certainty of bleeding out, if faced with the choice.

I would scavenge materials to bind yourself with before removing the lockpicks. Just in case there's more blood than you're expecting when you remove them.

Any chance the guard or wagon was carrying any alcohol? That's an easy option for cleaning the wound and/or bandages. Failing that, clean water helps. It might even be possible to boil it and make clean bandages if we can rig a crude methane cooker from the supply in the rebreather.

Don't forget to scavenge the remaining lockpicks and the dead guard. Strange, the guard looks like he's been dead for weeks...

>>613129
wash the cuts with the water, then try to clean the bandages

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/22(Mon)03:27 No. 613900 ID: 7e38be
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>>613130

I'm not sure which direction I was heading, I was asleep for most of the journey. I guess it would be in the direction the wagon is facing now? if that's the case then the path on the right would be the opposite direction. that particular hole looks as though it was man made, like it was mined out.

this particular hatchet was made for cutting flesh and bone, not wood, but in a pinch it will hack through a door easily.

fighting has never been my strength. I've been in a couple scraps, but none of them were very serious. I fight dirty and try to get out of there quickly.

>>613285

Ulric was alive last time I saw him. I at least hope that I've not been asleep for weeks.

>>613131
>>613157

>methane cooker

I have no idea how to make a "methane cooker" with proper tools, much less how to jury rig one. I can try and wing it, but Mraach tech has a nasty habit of exploding if misused.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/22(Mon)03:28 No. 613901 ID: 7e38be
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I pull the lockpicks out and remove the cuffs.

I dig through Ulrics coat. no alcohol, just some photos, some hexflame concentrators (useless), some rounds for his rifle, and...

oh hey a spellbomb.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/22(Mon)03:28 No. 613902 ID: 7e38be
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I can use this. not sure what the spell inside is but all I need to do is pull the pin and toss it. I set it aside.

I also notice Ulric has a chunk missing from his shoulder. Mraach eat their dead... that likely means Strauss has been by.

I pull Ulric's shirt off and tear it into strips, preparing to bandage myself, but first I need to wash my wound or I'm gonna end up dead anyway. I poke through the wagon and find a few waterskins. I take two of them, along with some jerky rations, and use one of the waterskins to wash out my punctures, then I wrap the cleanest of the bandages around my torso.

well it's still sore but I think this wound is as dressed as it can be, considering the circumstances.

currently I'm holding the Warhatchet in one hand and the waterskin in the other. I can keep the lockpicks in a hidden pocket in my shorts but anything bigger I need to hold in my hand.

should I take the Spellbomb? which way should I go? is there anything else to do before I leave?

Keep the spellbomb but don't use, it already looks like there has been a cave in thus the cave itself likely isn't stable enough and you'll cause it come crashing down.

We should try and head back where the wagon was before, it looks more like the debris is up front.

check corpses for meat

>I can try and wing it
No, if you don't have the relevant skills, trying to jury rig something with flammable gas is a bad idea.

>I can use this. not sure what the spell inside is but all I need to do is pull the pin and toss it.
So it's a good assumption that it's an offensive spell in nature?

>what carry
The waterskin has a strap, you can't wear it over a shoulder? That would at least partially free up one hand.

I'd take the spellbomb. Kind of silly to have to carry it in hand all the time, though. Could we steal a strap or belt from the dead guy?

can you throw the waterskin around your shoulder or hang the spell bomb or hatchet form your belt? Just saying, there has to bee an easier way to carry some of your stuff then you're making it out to be.

>>613902
Can you take Ulric's coat for more pockets? Or attach the cuffs to your belt and use them as a holster for the axe?

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/23(Tue)00:16 No. 614254 ID: 7e38be
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>>613925

but I've got some food already... unless you mean eating Ulric... yeah that isn't happening.

>>613921
>>613933
>>613951
>>613957

>spellbomb

yeah it's probably a fireball or glass bomb, something lethal and painful. I doubt it would cause any damage to the cave. I don't think there would be enough concussive force.

I suppose I can wear Ulric's coat. it would let me stash a couple of extra items, though it would be quite heavy and uncomfortable.

I hang the waterskin by my shoulder and pick up the spell bomb. I pull Ulric's jacket off and try it on.

so... how does it look on me?

>>614254
you look adorable!...Cut the end of the sleeves, so it's more confortable.

Adorably hard-boiled.

other then the gabbing blood soaked hole in the side that makes it look like something ripped your heart out not to bad.

>>614254
Alright keep the spellbomb, canteen, and axe. Leave the extra slot open, partially to save on weight.

>how does it look on me?
Big!

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/31(Wed)08:24 No. 617008 ID: 7e38be
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>>614256
>>614257
>>614263

guys, quit it. you're gonna give me a complex.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/31(Wed)08:25 No. 617009 ID: 7e38be
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>>614362

yeah it is a big coat, for me, at least.

>>614360

I roll up the sleeves and stash the spellbomb inside the coat.

I think I've spent enough time hanging out with Ulric. I need to find a way out of here. I duck through the opening to the right of the wreck.

on the other side I see the tunnel splits, one path continues down into the darkness, the other terminates a few yards away at a massive hexsteel door. looks like a service hatch. it should exit out to the deep road. and there is something by the door... it looks like...

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2014/12/31(Wed)08:25 No. 617010 ID: 7e38be
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Strauss?

be careful he isn't just mostly dead. aka approach with caution.

>>617010
"No, it's the prisoner.
...I'm sorry."
Honesty is the best policy.

Oh Geeze, what killed him. Did he wander away from the cart already injured, or is that door trapped.

Be cautious, here.

>>617010
looks like he was shot. Look around and make sure that whoever put this guy down isn't still around, Then maybe we should head down the other tunnel. I mean dead bodies are normally a good sign that you are heading the wrong way.

>>617010
Whoa, what? It looks like someone shot him. Was there anyone else with the caravan or was the caravan attacked by bandits?

Swap the gun for the axe, I think.

Loot the body for ammo and information, and then take the gun.

Examine the door for clues, but don't poke it.

Also, you may want to take his jacket for use later, in case you find someone else or your jacket gets ripped.

>>617010
The was his right hand is set, he may still be alive and at least semi-conscious.

Lay eggs in his chest cavity so your spawn have a warm meal to hatch to.

Alternatively, peek around to see if there's anyone/thing else around.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/04(Sun)07:08 No. 617832 ID: 7e38be
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>>617028
>>617027
>>617024

yeah that definitely looks like a gun shot. not just a regular gun shot either, that looks like he was hit with a shot from a Mraach rifle.

bandits? like muggers? not on the Deep Roads. those tunnels are heavily guarded

by the Mraach Flammengart. they're like these guards but more hardcore.

I can hold the gun, and I can use it as a melee weapon pretty effectively, if a bit sluggishly. I can fire the weapon pretty easily, just point and squeeze the trigger, but I have no idea how to reload it. if I were to figure it out, Strauss likely has some ammo on him.

>>617057

the door is a service hatch. I can't imagine it could be trapped, just locked, and really heavy.

>>617011
>>617345
>>617021

he wouldn't be a threat if he were alive. honestly Strauss was always quite nice to me. he'd even give me some of his food when we'd stop to rest.

>>617021

"uh, hey... Strauss?" I say, approaching slowly, "it's me... the prisoner..."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/04(Sun)07:08 No. 617833 ID: 7e38be
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"are you... are you dead?" I creep up closer, "I guess so, huh?"

I suppose I should mourn? I'm not sure. Klangg don't really do funerals, not like the Mraach do.

"uh... well, sorry." I mutter, "sorry that you're dead."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/04(Sun)07:09 No. 617834 ID: 7e38be
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"and uh... thanks... for giving me your food and water... and for saying I'm not a bad person... just for being a thief. you said I was uh... Nakka... I can't remember..."

"I said your conscience is injured due to the circumstances laid down by the capricious machinations of the Fates." the corpse groans out, as long winded as always.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/04(Sun)07:09 No. 617835 ID: 7e38be
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"you're alive?" I gasp.

"indeed. this one is spoken to still." he replies painfully, "it is unlikely I will continue to live for much longer."

he looks pretty messed up, but he seems pretty lucid. what should I do?

Keep him alive as long as possible and ask whatever questions YOU want or quickly finish him off.

With the wounds he has and the lack of medical supplies, it's likely you won't be able to do much more then simply stabilize him till his death.

I'd suggest asking him a few things if you can, and make him a bit more comfortable.

Be careful not to get any paralytic stuff on him. Ask what happened.

Ask him if there's anything you can do. (You're not really in a position to save him, but we might be able to fulfill last requests, deliver a message, that kind of thing).

"What happened" or "Who did this" are also things you might want to ask.

Also hold a funeral for him after he goes dead and ask how does he prefer it. Six feet under, cremation and the ashes spread throughout his birthplace, or whatever.

>>617835
just ask him: what happened?
Is there anything I can do for you?

And of course, if its even slightly feasable, you should honor his wishes. It might earn you some points with Mraach society.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/14(Wed)04:25 No. 620325 ID: 7e38be
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>>617900

"what happened?" I ask. he is silent for a few moments.

"Ulric shot me."

"when? I checked him and it looked like he'd been dead for a while."

"he was dead." he replies grimly, "I am sure of it. I had just removed a chunk of his flesh in order to give him a proper funeral. as I tried to leave, I heard rustling from the wagon, when I turned, his corpse glared at me with empty red eyes and shot me."

well that is... distressing.

>>617839
>>617840
>>617836
>>617860

"let me see the wound." I say, "I might be able to do something with it... make it hurt less."

he moves his hand hestitantly. I pull his jacket off and lift his undershirt. that is definitely a shot from a Mraach weapon. that's actually lucky for him. wounds from Mraach guns never get infected, maybe because the fire burns too hot?

the wound itself might still kill him, though. it look like it shot straight through his chest. I'm not sure what organs it might have hit.

I am careful not to touch the wound, though. if my venom were to touch him it would paralyze and numb him basically from the neck down.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/14(Wed)04:26 No. 620326 ID: 7e38be
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>>617861

"is there something I can do for you... i-if you don't make it."

"I would not ask you to consume me." he reassures, thank Arenei.

he coughs, then speaks again, "this place... the whisper in my mane, it speaks lowly of this place. it calls it the 'Throne of Nothing'. it says this place is evil, more evil than you or I can understand."

a whisper in his mane... he's talking about his Daemonic possession. all Mraach are born possessed by a Daemon

what should I do? are there any other questions I should ask him? is there some way I can stabilize his wounds or at least make him more comfortable?

Give him a blowjob before he dies. Or use venom to ease the pain.

It's a wound, clean it up, cover it up, get him up, and get out.

could you use some of your webs to bind the wound and maybe some of your venom to ease the pain. I mean how long does your venom last and how much does it usually take to paralyze someone? Maybe you could just use a drop or something to ease the pain but not fully paralyze him.

As for question, ask if he knows which way is an useable exit because you'd rather not stay here if it's all the same to him. That and if we can bind the wound effectively I guess we could try and drag him out.

>shot by a corpse
Great, we're going to have to be careful even around bodies. Meaning you might suddenly go from dealing with a dying friendly to a zombie trying to kill you.

...although if Ulric went undead, why was he back to dead when you examined him?

>treating a through and through bullet hole
Geeze. It went right through bones, looks like. There's surprisingly little blood for an outright hole through his chest (did it cauterize?). Not sure binding it would do much good by itself (the whole point is to keep things from getting in the body, and trying to stop bleeding. But blood will still pool in the hole).

Organs? It probably didn't hit his heart, unless he's got more than one, because then he'd already be dead. Maybe it got a lung, which might explain the coughing and the less blood than I'd expect (the blood's pooling there).

All speculation though, considering we know squat about Mraach physiology.

But yeah, with the resources we have at hand, the only things you might be able to try are cleaning the wound (which might be moot if there's no risk of infection anyways), blinding it, or antiseptic application of venom.

Do you know how much venom it takes to induce paralysis? A smaller amount, applied directly to the site of injury, could numb the area. Bonus if local paralysis stops muscles or whatever near the injury from trying to move and doing further damage.

>>620326
Um, perhaps ask if he knows where the closest town is? Maybe you should run the fuck away.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/20(Tue)16:00 No. 621346 ID: 7e38be
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>>620332

maybe just the venom for now, huh?

>>620333
>>620334
>>620352

"what are you doing?" he says, backing away.

"calm down, buddy. I'm just going to put a bit of venom around the wound. it should make you feel better... well not better, but it should make you feel nothing, which is probably an improvement."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/20(Tue)16:02 No. 621347 ID: 7e38be
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"I appreciate the concern but it is not nece-SSARY!" he yelps as my venom reaches below his flesh. about now I expect an icy chill is creeping from his chest to his various appendages. his breathing slows down and sounds less painful.

"Thank you, weaver." he sighs out eventually. the paralysis should indeed keep him from moving and further injuring himself.

"say, Strauss, are there any exits besides the service hatch?" I ask him.

he takes some time to answer, "hmmm... perhaps. there may be an alternate exit out onto the deep roads, or perhaps this cavern opens up..."

"are there any nearby cities?"

"assuming we are where I think we are... Geistharbor is near... maybe a Kilometer... there should be signs directing you to it on the deep road..." his voice slurs and his eyelids seem heavy. the venom looks like it's working, at least.

it seems like I have three options right now: I can keep conversing with Strauss, I could inspect the service hatch, or I could continue deeper into the cavern.

>keep conversing with Strauss, and inspect the service hatch
I mean the hatch is right there. Don't see why you can't take as you work. As for things to talk about, ask how you open the door.

We can try to look for the deep roads if we can't figure out the hatch.

Look for some clean cloth to bind his wound. It might not be bleeding but you need something to keep out any dirt.

Yay for awkward chest biting.

Annother plus: if he does die and turn into an undead monster, maybe the paralysis will prevent it from coming after you, immediately.

The cart's pretty wrecked, right? If we get him stabilized, and if we find a route out, how are we supposed to move him?

>what do
Tell him to try not to die on you while you go check out that hatch.

Just remember: alcohol is a good disinfectant for wounds, since it kills germs and lasts long.

>>621347
How long will the venom last? I'm thinking if you find a safe place you could drag him there, but... you should also make sure to plan ahead for him maybe turning into a zombie.

In the meantime examine that hatch.

Also ask him about Ulric, he said he shot him, but is that all? Did his eyes just glow momentarily and shoot him or why did he stop if he wanted him dead?

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/21(Wed)12:42 No. 621470 ID: 7e38be
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>>621365

I'll keep it in mind, though I haven't found any yet. Mraach don't drink too often, they don't like the volatile nature of alcohol. I wonder if Wyrmwood Rum is safe to use as a disinfectant? it's a common Klangg drink, but it's filled with sugar.

>>621375

>How long will the venom last?

it will paralyze a Teufelhund for about 3 hours, so I think something as big as a Mraach will be immobile for a little less than one hour?

>>621350
>>621358

>awkward chest biting

was it? I thought it might be. he looked pretty uncomfortable with the situation... I should probably apologize when we make it out of here, huh?

I tear his shirt up and wrap it around the wound. that should keep it clean for now. moving him around to do this makes me realize how heavy the Mraach is. I hope I don't have to carry him any time soon.

"hey don't die for a minute okay? I'm gonna check out the service hatch."

he nods.


>>621349

I examine the door closer. the carvings depict a male and female Mraach and a couple of Daemons. this probably has some cultural context I'm not grasping, but I doubt it has anything to do with opening it. I suspect to open it would require a key, or a deft hand and the right lockpick; both of which I have. right here in...

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/21(Wed)12:43 No. 621471 ID: 7e38be
File 142187302350.png - (33.22KB , 1000x1000 , 0030.png )

shit! where is my "T" pick? let's see... "L" pick, "C" pick... every damn one except the one I need. I have a spare set in my bag, but I still haven't found it.

now that I think about it, where could my bag have gone? it wasn't in the wreck or with Ulric, and if Strauss had it I probably would have found it while I was dressing his wounds.

"hey buddy do you know where my bag is?" I ask him.

"confiscated it... should have been in the wagon... didn't see it after crash..." he mumbles.

"any idea how to open this door?"

"need the key. door's too heavy to force open... maybe a hexmage could open it..."

well I'm wearing our hexmage's coat so I think that's a dead end.

>>621415

"hey Strauss is there anything else you could tell me about Ulric?"

"he stood up... I thought he was hurt... but he moved like... a marionette, an unnatural stilted gait...he stared at me with... glowing red eyes and leveled his rifle. I called to him but he shot me. I saw him throw himself upon the wreck and impale himself on a broken axle as I crawled away."

"why would he shoot you and then let you escape?"

he shrugs.

"how long ago was this?"

"not sure... I passed out until you came by..."

alright so this way is a dead end so unless you can find your bag bag at the wreck we're going to have to find another way out. Also if we have to go the long way see if there isn't something at the wreck site that you could use to help move Strauss around.

Also as good as time as any to ask him about the bomb you have and what spell is procced for it, but yes we do need to look around for your toolkit.

Oh, wait, he didn't say how the wagon was wrecked in the first place. Ask him about that.

You may want to make sure that Ulric is officially dead, and not a zombie. After looting the wagon, set it on fire.

Lets hope you still don't have one of your lock picks stuck in you.

Might be a good time to go over the wagon wreckage again.

>where is my "T" pick?
It's not still in your side, I hope.

We could go back and look for it, but finding a tiny little sliver of metal amid all the dust and rubble in poor light is pretty close to a needle in a haystack situation.

>Ulric
So something possessed him, and needed to suicide to get back out?

What did that and why are still pretty unclear.

>>621517
That might be important.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/22(Thu)19:55 No. 621691 ID: 7e38be
File 142198532126.png - (19.45KB , 1000x1000 , 0031.png )

>>621517

"hey Strauss do you know how the wagon managed to wreck in the first place?"

"memory hazy... bright red light filled my vision... I fell into darkness... and the wagon on top of me..."

huh... red light? not sure what could cause that. it wasn't hexfire, hexfire's green. maybe it has something to do with this reanimated corpse business?

>>621478

"do you know what spell is written inside of this bomb?"

"what does it say?"

I look at the strip of paper, written in Mraach script, "Uhm... Knockenfeiren und Standigmiserie?"

"it causes liquid in those affected to freeze into crystals and makes moving both more difficult and extremely painful..."

>>621475

my bag's not back there, I'm sure.

but you're right, this door is currently a dead end.

>>621540
>>621555

>It's not still in your side, I hope.

you and me both, buddy. I don't feel anything shifting around in there, but then again the whole area is still pretty sore.

>>621533

>set on fire

I'm not sure how I would be able to start a mundane fire with the tools I have. I might be able to start a hexfire but that stuff is dangerous, even relative to normal fire. though I guess I should check on Ulric, just to make sure I don't get nibbled on by any undead abominations.

I peek out into the chamber...

well Ulric is missing, but I found my bag, or at least the straps...

>>621691
Aw fuck. There's a zombie shambling about and you just paralyzed your only ally. Track it down, and chop it to pieces. Discard the cloak for now if it'll help you move stealthily. Just bring the axe and spellbomb.

damn what a shitty neighborhood. I mean even the dead go around and steal your shit. I feel sorry for whoever tries to sell the real-estate on this place and I feel worse for the poor sod they manage to talk into it.

But yeah it's probably better not to stay here longer then we need to. think you can make something to cary the half dead guy back there from the wreckage? I mean if you can find two pieces of wood long enough you could put them in an X formation, try your coat around it and put Strauss on it and just kinda drag him with you. It might not be comfortable but it beats carrying the guy all the way to wherever we're going.

>well Ulric is missing
Great, so there's either a murder zombie up and about, or something that can carry off corpses.

Now we've got the problem that we're stuck down here with a hostile and someone we can't move easily. Bad position.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/26(Mon)15:41 No. 622336 ID: 971050
File 142231567101.png - (36.13KB , 1000x1000 , 0032.png )

>>621693
>>621695
>>621714

I'm gonna miss you, stolen coat, but you will probably get me killed. I tie the coat and two beams together.

"hey Strauss look what I made!" I beam.

"a rack..." he replies.

"no, it's a stretcher." I huff

"why would you need a... no, I do not need to be carried."

"you're filled with paralytic venom, buddy."

"I can walk just..."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/01/26(Mon)15:43 No. 622338 ID: 971050
File 142231579648.png - (41.08KB , 1000x1000 , 0034.png )

"GAH... just fine... on my own..."

>>622338
How about you give him a walking stick, see if he actually can walk with it.

help the guy up at least so he doesn't tear his wound open. Also take the stretcher for when he falls down.

Just because you can move, doesn't mean you should. I mean, it's good you can do something if you have to, but you shouldn't aggravate your injury if you don't need to.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/02/08(Sun)02:52 No. 624003 ID: 7e38be
File 142339274404.png - (34.05KB , 1000x1000 , 0035.png )

>>622370

"you got a hole straight through your chest and you're filled with venom, moving too much is not a good idea."

"I will not allow you to burden yourself with me..."

>>622345

"well let me help you up, at least." I pick him up with great effort, and lean him against the wall. he looks like he's gonna topple over any second. I get some venom on him, but does it really matter at this point? with the dose he already had on him he should be completely unable to move.

"thank you, weaver." he pants. I nod, smiling. I like the word weaver. it's a slang term, not exactly the most dignified way to refer to a Klangg, but it has always been a welcome change to the skulk I usually hear said.

>>622340

"we need a walking stick or something, huh?" I look around. "what about the rifle?"

"we need the Hexengewehr ready in case we need to fire it... give me one of those beams."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/02/08(Sun)02:52 No. 624004 ID: 7e38be
File 142339276828.png - (22.74KB , 1000x1000 , 0036.png )

I sadly deconstruct my masterfully crafted stretcher and hand him one of the axles. he leans heavily on the axle, and shakily walks forward a few steps.

"see...? I can walk just fine..."

right... I suppose we should continue into the tunnel? unless you guys have some other plans?

>>624004
Unless you can bend one of your lockpicks to make up for the missing one, yeah. Or maybe you can MAKE one from the wrecked wagon?

make a crutch with it, instead of a pole! he will make fewer movements while walking!

stubren son of a... (sigh)

Just make sure you stay near him incase he stumbles. If it looks like he's about to collapse again run up to him and let him lean one you for support. If he complains to much tell him you will just let him topple over and drag him by his tail if he wants you to do that instead.

But yeah head down the tunnel. If he needs to stop to rest let him rest and use that time to run ahead and scout our the area ahead of you to make sure nothing scary or something that would like to kill you is ahead of you.

OH and since he isn't using the stretcher I believe that means you can wear the coat again. Score.

You'll be more of a burden to me if you kill yourself and leave me lone down here. Especially if your corpse turns into a monster that tries to kill me. Pace yourself, okay?

Honestly, if we don't have the means to open the door, I don't think you have anywhere to go but down the tunnel.

Consider it a repaying a debt after giving me food and being kind, accept my kindness in return.

Oh, don't forget to warn him his friend's body is missing.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/03/09(Mon)03:01 No. 628367 ID: 7e38be
File 142589531192.png - (30.01KB , 1000x1000 , 0037.png )

>>624005

I wish. I'm not a locksmith; the only reason I know how to pick locks in the first place is because my mother showed me how.

>>624007

I rearrange the axles and make a workable crutch. he takes the crutch and takes a few steps, seemingly much more stable.

>>624028

I also take the coat again.

how I've missed you, gigantic itchy overcoat...

>>624106

"Ulric's stretching his legs."

"what do you mean?" he grunts.

"he was gone when I went back."

he looks down at the rifle in his hand, then back up at me, "I may not be able to use this when the time comes... can you operate a Hexengewehr?"

"I can shoot it, but I don't know how to reload it."

"you may not need to." he replies, "if you can score a shot in the head, the entire skull will be vaporized."

"are you sure that would kill it?"

he shrugs, "it might... it might not... but it will likely make the creature unable to see or hear by normal means. it could give you an escape. in that case throw the Hexengewehr to me and run... I'll handle it from there."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/03/09(Mon)03:02 No. 628368 ID: 7e38be
File 142589536085.png - (19.58KB , 1000x1000 , 0038.png )

>>624072

"stop being so macho, buddy." I say as we walk down the tunnel, "you're going to get yourself hurt."

"I have a gaping hole in my chest."

"...more hurt." I correct, "we need to stick together. if you... y'know... die... then I'll be alone down here."

he remains silent.

"and what about Ulric? what if what happens to Ulric happens to you?"

"I'll not let that happen." he replies, "I'd sooner dismember myself than let my body be some vile thing's puppet. you need not worry about my corpse

>>624074

"it would be a lot easier to help you if you let me." I huff out.

"I agree."

I sigh, "you've been so kind to me... let me return it."

"kindness is not some precious resource, to be traded like gold or iron." he replies, "it is simply the natural language spoken by all humourous mortals... my kindness to you is simply that. I expect nothing in return."

"well... well if altruism is the natural language of mortals, then why won't you accept my kindness?"

he stares back at me thoughtfully, "I suppose that is hypocritical of me, Weaver..."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/03/09(Mon)03:03 No. 628369 ID: 7e38be
File 142589540185.png - (124.47KB , 2000x1000 , 0039.png )

after a few moments, I see a faint blue light down the tunnel. Strauss sees it as well, and with great effort, hefts the rifle in his hands. the scent of brass becomes more apparent as we continue down the path and eventually find the source of the pale blue light.

"ah..." the words stick to the back of my throat, "it's... beautiful..."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/03/09(Mon)03:03 No. 628370 ID: 7e38be
File 142589542267.png - (46.40KB , 1000x1000 , 0040.png )

"it's Daemonic." Strauss corrects.

"Daemonic? like... like the Fates?"

he shakes his head, "Fates reside in a realm apart from this one, called the Pit. all Daemons do, other than mortal born Humours."

"mortal born?"

"sometimes a virgin maiden, usually a M'raach, will become sick with children. she'll give birth to a horned thing, a Humour. it's not a true living mortal, however, just a surrogate corpse being controlled by a pit spawn."

"these uh... these Daemons, are they still kicking around somewhere?"

"not in this city, that's for certain." he looks around cautiously, "I doubt any sentient being has seen this settlement in a few thousand years..."

my mind is slightly eased... but something about this place seems... unnatural. what should I do right now?

well the only way to go is forward so I suggest doing that. Just keep an eye out for anything that looks like it will be helpful or lead to an exit.

>like the fates?
Oh hey, we know them. They sent us here!

>virgins sometimes spontaneously birth demons
Um. Well, that's incentive to lose it as soon as possible, I suppose.

Although are demons considered a bad thing? They have one in their mane, and you haven't been terribly bothered by our presence, honestly.

>what do
Nowhere to go but forward.

Not sure if there are useful supplies in the abandoned city. I think I see an aquduct, so there might be water. Or maybe not, since it's damaged.

>>628370
"What are the odds that blue stuff is bad to touch?"

>>628373

That would be us actually, we just chose a string to pluck, and we offered to see this one out to the end afterall.

Though I almost wonder if there's anything you can find here to nab..Shiny pretty things of value.

>>628369
I see a trail of blood leading to... a bloody body? Maybe that's Ulric. Go check it out. Get the rifle ready, maybe hand over your stuff to Strauss so you can wield the weapon.

Daemons, huh? I like daemons. Daemons are cool. It's vital to note that it's pronounced differently than Demons. Eh versus Ee. I don't know what your world's Daemons are like, but often it's just that the most vocal presense of them happen to be Demons as well, but even many benevolent or neutral immortals can be counted as Daemons.
>Fates reside in a realm apart from this one, called the Pit. all Daemons do, other than mortal born Humours.
In fact, he suggests that the Fates themselves are Daemons.
>"mortal born [humours]?"
Since you aren't any more familiar with the term than we are, ask him, are the Humours a malicious sort of Daemon, or are they as capable of malice and benevolence as any mortal?

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/03/14(Sat)04:21 No. 629058 ID: 7e38be
File 142633206221.png - (76.47KB , 1000x1000 , 0041.png )

>>628371
>>628389

yeah that's blood alright... and it's fresh, too. I trade the hatchet for the rifle and we begin to walk down the path, cautiously looking around at the strange scenery.

"this is way heavier than it looks" I grunt, "what's in this thing?"

"the shaft is filled with a haunted wyrmwood log. the explosive cartridge drives a cursed hexsteel nail into the log and the spirit inside fires a hexflame bolt in its agony."

"that sounds a bit cruel... torturing a spirit just to fire a gun."

he shrugs, "don't think of the spirit as a person. its a mindless manifestation of daemonic energy."

>>628373

>Well, that's incentive to lose one's virginity as soon as possible.

yeah, I'll get right on that, chief. you guys keep an eye out for any gorgeous specimens to ravish, yeah?

>Not sure if there are useful supplies in the abandoned city.

well I'm not looking for a streetside diner or a wine cellar, I just need something to open that door. maybe some kind of horrid Daemonic relic, or a hammer...

>>628384

"any idea what these crystals are?"

"I'm not sure." he looks around the chamber, "likely mundane minerals of some sort.

>>628444
>>628385

I don't really know much about Daemons. I know that Mraach worship them, and that Chtzo have pretty friendly contact with them. I've been told that the Surfacers are afraid of Daemons, especially Humours. I also know that they are very powerful and unpredictable.

"these mortal born Humours, are they the malicious type?"

he shakes his head, "they are by no means selfless, but their meddling is normally harmless, or benevolent."

he scratches behind his quills, "the Whispers in the mane are similar, though they only speak to the Mraach. if not for their guidance, Mraach would still be fighting each other with flint spears."

"and the Fates?"

"you'd do well not to think about them. Fates have no moral or ethical obligation to their charges. if it pleases them they could lead one to great windfall or great ruin, sometimes both."

oh... well I guess it's too late for that, huh?

you guys aren't gonna lead me to great ruin, right?

>you guys aren't gonna lead me to great ruin, right?
lady we don't really even know where the hell you are right now so it's kinda hard for us to lead you anywhere. But if you want to know what plans I had for you if it helps calm you down then I'll tell you. Find a city that won't try to kill you on sight, find someone to look after grumpy over there so he can get some real medical help, ditch the guy once we don't have to worry about him dying on us so he doesn't lock you back up, wing it from there. All in all we do try to help whoever we're with since we actually like being able to talk with the people we're stuck with and if we give them nothing but bad advice they tend to stop listening to us completely and that's usually pretty boring unless they do a lot of stupid shit that we can laugh at them for. Also unless we find you a massive dick we do try to aim for windfall instead of ruin if for nothing else then bragging rights. We save ruin for those we dislike a lot or when something happens that we didn't see coming and fucks everything up. Those ones can be pretty fun when they take us by surprise as it forces us to think on our feet but can be a pain as well.

So to answer your question, maybe or maybe not. We do try to help but what we see as helping might not be all that helpful in your eyes or perhaps we just fuck up along the way and make everything worse. The only way to see how things will end is to put one foot in front of the other and see where the journey takes you. Besides whats the fun in just telling you the outcome when it's so much more fun to take it as it comes?

>>629058
If we lead you to your doom now, we'll never find out where that last lockpick ended up.

If word gets out, there will likely be more than one side version the story, one in which the Fates favored a Klanng down on her luck, and another where the Fates lured her into a dangerous life that she narrowly escaped... if we end up helping you in opposition to someone else, it could be argued we led that entity to their doom.

People suffer and die all on their own. We would like you to last for a while longer.

Ma'am, if we were to lead to your destruction, we would have already done so a million times over. We want to see you get out, and be free like you were before this mess. Maybe try to help you stay out of trouble. Then we'll find you the biggest the dick you handle for that virgin problem, cutie.

If we really wanted you dead we would've just left you to the cart that almost crumbled down on your head.

Interesting people keep our interest, you and Strauss so far...Quite interesting, want to see this through to the end.

>you guys aren't gonna lead me to great ruin, right?
Not deliberately, no. I mean, we're kind of just along for the ride, and it's less interesting for us if we bring the ride to an end.

But, I would encourage you to think about the things we say to you. Not every idea we have is necessarily a good one, and sometimes one of us will just suggest something they think is funny, or that's obviously a bad idea, cause they feel it needs to be said. You kind of have to filter with your own judgement.

That and well... you got yourself trapped underground with some kind of undead monster before we even showed up. You don't need us to be doomed. But you sure could use help getting out.

>you guys aren't gonna lead me to great ruin, right?
We're just leading you to leave a great story. Whether the story is success or failure is on your shoulders.

>>629058
Hee hee hee... well, you'll find out one way or another. Don't want to spoil the ending for you, now would we?

>gorgeous specimens
How about Strauss?

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/03/17(Tue)17:24 No. 629685 ID: 7e38be
File 142663827999.png - (41.66KB , 1000x1000 , 0042.png )

>>629062
>>629065
>>629071
>>629080
>>629141

I never doubted you guys for a second! I'll stop worrying so much and just let you do your thing.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/03/17(Tue)17:25 No. 629686 ID: 7e38be
File 142663830740.png - (38.67KB , 1000x1000 , 0043.png )

>>629067
>>629165

"is something the matter?" Strauss peers back at me.

"what do you mean?"

"you were staring at me. is there something wrong?"

"oh." I squeak, "I was just zoning out, I guess... sorry."

"it's no problem, just keep your eyes open for any sudden movements."

"yeah, will do." I stutter.

we walk in silence for a few moments, as I scan around. it's too dark for me to make out many details, but I don't see any movement.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/03/17(Tue)17:25 No. 629687 ID: 7e38be
File 142663833587.png - (42.22KB , 1000x1000 , 0044.png )

"hey Strauss," I say finally, "are you married?"

he remains quiet for a moment, "I was. my wife passed away a few years ago."

"I'm sorry."

he shakes his head, "don't be. in the short time we were together we lived a full life. I'm past grieving. I'm just happy for the memories we shared."

unsure of what to say, I just keep peering around the cave.

"I doubt an old military dog like myself has much monogamy in his future, anyway." he laughs.

>>629687
Tell him that is up to Fate.

The bloody box looks like a trap- is it just me or is there more blood on the other side of the rocks? Circle around, make sure nothing's lying in ambush.

>bloody footprints leading to a box
That's reassuring.

>"I doubt an old military dog like myself has much monogamy in his future, anyway." he laughs.
Uh, yeah, hehehe. (Totally not him hitting on you, nope).

Dongs aside, that looks like a satchel. With all the blood, it's either a trap, Ulric passed by here, or someone killed Ulric and left it here.

>>629685
Also, you have the final say in what you do. We may supply the suggest but, (like the whole virgin deal) it's up to you what this road leads to.

>>629688
I see what you did there...

>Advencha!
Hmm, what's the white stuff all over those rocks? Just crystals/striations or something of note?

>>629687
Dawww, someone has a crush.

>>629686
But for real, I'm seeing some blood past the rock behind the bag and this whole thing screams trap. Honestly if it wasn't for the fact you took zombie boy's gun I'd be freaking out right now.

I say see if your crush can aim his gun stright and have him cover you as yo come in towards the side while he stays on the road. This way you're more likely to see anything hiding in the rocks, you can move better so you have a better chance at getting out of harms way should something jump out and the other guy actually knows how to use a gun. By the way to aim line up the crosshairs so the line up and are level with each other and that should let you hit whatever you're aiming at. Also be aware of the kick that thing probably had

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/02(Thu)04:52 No. 632587 ID: 7e38be
File 142797556810.png - (24.40KB , 1000x1000 , 0045.png )

>>629697

it looks more like the rocks are white and covered in mud and dirt.

>>629691

>Totally not him hitting on you, nope

you think so? maybe I should make a move or something? maybe after we get out of here; it would probably be weird to come onto a guy while we're trapped in a cave.


>>629688

"guess that's up to the Fates." I smile.

he glances at me, then nods, brandishing a grin I've never seen on him before, "I hope I'm favorable to them, then."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/02(Thu)04:53 No. 632588 ID: 7e38be
File 142797559781.png - (18.90KB , 1000x1000 , 0046.png )

>>629691
>>629695
>>629756

no... that's not a box. it looks kind of like...

my bag!

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/02(Thu)04:53 No. 632589 ID: 7e38be
File 142797563509.png - (48.37KB , 1000x1000 , 0047.png )

"what are you- be careful!" Strauss warns as I approach the bag.

"don't worry." I reply, "just watch my back, ok bud?"

he nods in reply. I slowly approach the leather knapsack, keeping the heavy rifle leveled and watching the shadows around me. I quickly snatch it up and dig through the pockets.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/02(Thu)04:54 No. 632590 ID: 7e38be
File 142797566375.png - (33.19KB , 1000x1000 , 0048.png )

"check it out!" I yell, presenting proudly the T shaped lockpick.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/02(Thu)04:55 No. 632591 ID: 7e38be
File 142797572061.png - (34.24KB , 1000x1000 , 0049.png )

"MORTAL... BORN?"

GRAB YOUR SHIT AND RUN. GIVE THE GUN TO STRAUSS AND READY YOUR HATCHET OR WHATEVER OTHER WEAPON YOU HAVE.

No mortal born here. Just go back to sleep. Its all a dream.

>>632591
Might as well try this:
"These mortals are watched over by the Fates! Permit them safe passage."

The red rocks... are alive? Get some distance away and ask what they are.

oh would you look at that, it's GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE O'clock. Whelp nothing to do but try to keep up with the times so grab your lot and scoot young lady.

>MORTAL... BORN?
Jeeze, people can't all be immortal, jerk. Think how crowded the place would get, then.

>>632591
Oi, calm down. She's not a Mortal Born Humourous, just a typical mortal.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/05(Sun)04:53 No. 633004 ID: 7e38be
File 142823481714.png - (35.13KB , 1000x1000 , 0050.png )

>>632592
>>632631

I don't know what that thing is but I'm not sticking around to find out. I scamper to my feet and dash toward Strauss, grabbing the rifle and my bag.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/05(Sun)04:54 No. 633005 ID: 7e38be
File 142823485079.png - (29.03KB , 1000x1000 , 0051.png )

"HALT."

the words come from inside my skull and wrap around my brain. my muscles refuse to move.

"TURN."

I do.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/05(Sun)04:55 No. 633006 ID: 7e38be
File 142823491647.png - (21.38KB , 1000x1000 , 0052.png )

"SPEAK."

>>632598

"would you believe this is a dream?"

"HMM... NO, IT COULDN'T BE A DAEMON, COULD IT?"

>>632649
>>632669

"I'm a mortal."

"YES, YOU MUST BE. I CAN HEAR YOUR HEARTBEAT TICKING AWAY TOWARD THE GRAVE... HMM... SOONER THAN YOU'D SUSPECT, I IMAGINE..."

>>632630

"what are you?"

"AN INTERESTING QUESTION, THOUGH SOMEWHAT PRIMITIVE... WHAT I AM IS MUCH LESS IMPORTANT THAN WHAT YOU ARE... A QUESTION YOU HAVE YET TO ANSWER FOR ME."

"I'm... I'm a Klangg."

"KLANGG? WHAT AN AWFUL NAME FOR A SPECIES."

"sorry?"

"THERE'S NO NEED TO APOLOGIZE, YOU DIDN'T COME UP WITH THE NAME, I IMAGINE. THIS LANGUAGE IS THE LANGUAGE OF THE KLANGG, THEN?'

"no, this is Mraachi. Klangg don't actually have their own language..." I start to feel embarassed admitting this to the thing in front of me.

"A SAPIENT CREATURE WITHOUT ITS OWN FORM OF COMMUNICATION? WHAT ABOUT A GOVERNMENT? OR SOME KIND OF INFRASTRUCTURE? DO YOU MAKE TOOLS OR CRAFTS OR ART? DO YOU HAVE SOME FORM OF MILITARY PRESCENSE?"

"n-no... none of that..." I shrink, "we just... take stuff from other races..."

"PERFECT. THIS ONE WILL DO NICELY..."

oh crap. that's ominous.

>>632601

"these mortals are... are watched over by the Fates! p-permit them safe passage!" I try to sound as loud and imposing as I can.

"THE FATES? WHAT IS A- OH..."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/05(Sun)04:55 No. 633007 ID: 7e38be
File 142823494909.png - (23.33KB , 1000x1000 , 0053.png )

"YOU."

yes, us. hello.

>"YOU."
suuuuuuup. From your tone I take it you're not very fond of us. Would it be to much to ask for a name and to ask what you're doing?

Why hellooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

AYYYY, let her go. It's us you want right? WE'LL 1V1 YOU, NO ITEMS, FINAL DESTINATION.

Good sir, I must remind that we Fates are not known for our memory, spending the vast majority of eternity outside time and space, and as such I apologize if we are unable to recall you or the nature of any previous interventions which have led to negative consequences for you or your loved ones.
Add. Eyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!

Hey buddy its been awhile.

At least Strauss had the sense to get out of sight.

>>633007
Sup.

If you harbor any enmity towards us, please remember she bears as little responsibility for that as she does the name of her species.

>>633007
Damn. You must have fallen victim to a group that was interested in bringing about a downfall, from that tone of voice.

Contrary to what a few of us might say, we're not in a position to really protect anybody... Just assist them.

>>633007
Have we met?

>>633007
...Sorry? Please don't hurt the girl because of us, It's not her fault for us to be here.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/12(Sun)11:25 No. 634000 ID: 7e38be
File 142886310130.png - (28.88KB , 1000x1000 , 0054.png )

"THEY'RE TALKING TO YOU RIGHT NOW, AREN'T THEY? SO CURIOUS, THESE FATES. SO FORGETFUL... GO AHEAD AND ASK... THEY HAVE NOTHING BUT TIME ANYMORE..."

>>633008
>>633009
>>633011
>>633028
>>633033
>>633060

"they are greeting you and asking who you are."

"I BELIEVE I HAVE ALREADY STATED THAT WHO I AM IS UNIMPORTANT. I AM NOT A PERSON, NOT BY MORTAL NOR EVEN DAEMONIC STANDARDS. I SIMPLY AM. I BELIEVE THE HUMOURS CALL ME NIHILIM. THIS IS ONLY A TITLE, HOWEVER. A MEANINGLESS ONE, AT THAT. AS FOR WHAT I AM... THIS IS A MORE INVOLVED ANSWER, ONE WHICH I WILL BE HAPPY TO GIVE AT A LATER TIME. FOR NOW... BE PATIENT.'

>>633057
>>633039
>>633132

"they apologize for whatever misfortune they may have caused you. they ask for you not to hold it against me."

"DON'T MISUNDERSTAND. I HOLD NO EMNITY TOWARD THE FATES. THEY ONCE HELPED ME TOWARD MY GOALS. THIS GOAL EVIDENTLY HAS YET TO BE ACHIEVED... WHICH BRINGS ME TO YOU, KLANGG. WORRY NOT. I WILL NOT BRING HARM TO YOUR FLESH... IT IS MUCH TOO IMPORTANT TO ME..."

>>634000
Alright, what are its goals? What does it plan to do to you?

>I AM NOT A PERSON
We'd disagree with that, actually. You appear conscious, sapient, and capable of communication, which is usually more than enough for us to treat something as a person.

May just be a problem of conflicting definitions, though.

>THIS GOAL EVIDENTLY HAS YET TO BE ACHIEVED...
Goals / promises left unachieved means something to us. What did we owe you? We might be able to help now, within a certain amount of skepticism, since we don't remember and all.

>YOUR FLESH... IT IS MUCH TOO IMPORTANT TO ME...
Um. That doesn't sound terrible at all. Why?

>IT IS MUCH TOO IMPORTANT TO ME...
Whoa hey if you're going to use her as a vessel, please, be a backseat passenger, not the driver! Finishing what has been started certainly is an important thing, but if you take over completely, you'll leave her own tasks unfinished.

>>634000
He's talking, he has agency and goals, sounds like a person to me.

>I WILL NOT BRING HARM TO YOUR FLESH... IT IS MUCH TOO IMPORTANT TO ME...

Crap, he intends to possess you. Not sure what's to be done about that. Running's no guarantee, it might be that negotiating is your best bet.

>>634000
There's parts to mortals that aren't flesh though. If those parts get harmed death might be preferable.

Especially since you're a Mortal, Female Virgin.
He might not be going for mind control. He might not consider having you spawn a Humor for him to be harm, either.

If you don't want Daemon babies, aim the rifle at that big, red eye and shoot. Then run for your life and more.

>>634023
No.

...I'm choosing to believe that he's just socially stunted and how he's saying things is is simply because he doesn't realize that what he's saying could be counted as threatening... or just doesn't care.

So ask what he wants then.

>>634010
>>634007
probably not. their current body looks pretty okay from here.

>>634000
I believe you still owe us ten bucks from the last time we helped you. (Bluff check)

Git out

>>634000
Looks like he could do with a patch job. Maybe a new coat of paint.

Green maybe.

>>634000
What do you need us for?

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/17(Fri)04:14 No. 634923 ID: 7e38be
File 142926925129.png - (28.94KB , 1000x1000 , 0055.png )

>>634007
>>634023
>>634027
>>634077
>>634528
>>634529

the thing- Nihilim- is holding me still somehow, but its grip seems to be weakening. if I need to, I think I can level the gun. can this thing even be hurt by a shot from the rifle I wonder? I notice also that it seems to be cracking and falling apart. big guy might not be long for this world, huh?

"don't tell me you intend to possess me or fill me up with horrible babies."

"GOOD GUESS. YOU'D BE WRONG, THOUGH. POSSESSION IS THE TOOL OF COMMONERS. I WOULD NEVER RESORT TO CONTROLLING A CREATURE, ALIVE OR DEAD, DIRECTLY. MY INTENTION, AS IT ALWAYS HAS BEEN, IS TO UPLIFT. YOUR FLESH IS PERFECT FOR THIS. YOU COME FROM NOTHING, LESS THAN DIRT. YOU ARE ESSENTIALLY INVISIBLE... MY ANNIHILATION IS AT HAND. THE STRING I GLARE UPON IS FRAYED, AND TERMINATES IN THIS CHAMBER. I MUST ENSURE MY PLANS CONTINUE PAST MY IMPENDING DECONSTRUCTION. THAT IS WHERE YOU COME IN. CONSIDER YOURSELF THE EXECUTOR OF MY WILL."

>>634010
>>634005

"you seem to be a person. you have sapience, goals, and agency-"

"AGENCY?!" it makes a noise like a laugh but distorted and awful, "DID THEY TELL YOU TO SAY THAT? HOW IRONIC."

"they want to know what it was that they helped you with."

"THEY NEARLY ACHIEVED IT, OBVIOUSLY NOT, THOUGH. IF I HAVE AWAKENED I IMAGINE I AM NOT THE LAST. I DOUBT I AM THE FIRST, EITHER..."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/17(Fri)04:15 No. 634924 ID: 7e38be
File 142926934588.png - (43.47KB , 1000x1000 , 0056.png )

>>634001

"what is it you plan to do with me?"

"I SIMPLY WISH TO GIVE YOU A GIFT." Nihilim extends a finger which splits open to reveal a long and wicked barbed stinger, "THE GIFT IS A DIVINE SEED."

"can I refuse?"

"YOU CAN. IN FACT, THE DIVINE SEED MUST BE ACCEPTED WILLINGLY. IT IS POWERLESS IN THE POSSESSION OF A SLAVE. LET ME ASK YOU: HAVE YOU EVER WANTED TO BE STRONGER? TOUGHER? DO YOU WISH TO STAY YOUNG? THIS IS THE VESSEL OF SUCH EXPERIENCES. WITH MY DIVINE SEED, YOU WILL BE A DIVINE ENTITY. I CAN UPLIFT YOU FROM INSIGNIFIGANCE AND SQUALOR, AND ALL I REQUIRE IN RETURN IS A SIMPLE FAVOR."

"what is that?"

"MY KIND. ALL THAT SHARE KINSHIP WITH ME... MY ETERNAL SIBLINGS..."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/17(Fri)04:16 No. 634925 ID: 7e38be
File 142926937935.png - (21.82KB , 1000x1000 , 0057.png )

"DESTROY THEM."

>>634925
Do it!

>DESTROY THEM
Um. Why?

I... never wanted to kill anyone. Much less go on a crusade to execute a dying race.

neat. guessing the others are assholes that need killing.

"DESTROY THEM."

well that escalated quicker then I thought it would.

So some quick questions, will this seed hurt, why do you want to eliminate your own kind, where would we find them, and if we say yes what can we expect in the way of opposition?

Hmmm, raising of a Klangg into a proper divine being...Now that would certainly be fascinating! Do it!

Are the other's assholes? If so, LES GO!

What if we try to control them, or seek some sort of synthesis?

>>634932
Seems like the right questions to ask.

>>634924
>it is powerless
Can't tell if ominous or more odd phrasing.

Let's add this question: will my mind remain intact unaffected my own I don't know how to phrase this.

>>634925
Uh, why? If it's a good reason, accept.

...maybe we should be a little less gung ho to accept this?

I mean, first of all, one guy's say so is lot to take on trust before accepting genocide as your mission.

That and we'd be pretty remiss in our duties not to point out accepting this mission would in all likelihood put our current charge in danger, likely for some time to come.

Hey kid. Now's the time you have to do a little bit of introspectin'.
What do you want? Obviously you want to live, to go home, maybe, probably to live well....but is this what you want?
If you do like this guy asks, you might be able to do some really good things for the Klangg. Might be able to raise them outta the gutter. But you might have to do some horseshit things first. Thing syou'll have to do, whether you want to or not. Are you okay with that?
Cause if you are, let's do this.

This could be your ticket Out, my dear.

What did you have to look forward to after you got out of this pit? Being an escaped convict? Dutifully following Strauss to prison, hoping for a reduced sentence after helping him? Either path would essentially require you to start your life over. This offering, if its legitimate, could be its own new start.

>"DESTROY THEM."
Those who seek death, either for themselves or to force it upon others, I would be willing to help destroy... But for those who want to harmlessly enjoy life, I don't think I can condone their destruction, should any such beings exist...
What's your opinion... Uh, Weaver? I realize I never got your name.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/23(Thu)19:29 No. 636118 ID: 7e38be
File 142984257715.png - (32.61KB , 1000x1000 , 0058.png )

>>634997
>>635011
>>634939
>>634928

I really could do whatever I want... live where I want... be who ever I want to be. I never thought of myself as someone who could do any good for anyone... I don't know how the feeling settles with me. if I accept this deal and it gives me the power to do something good... then not accepting would be selfish, right? and if I could do something with lasting effects, something that helps others... I think I would want the power to do that... but I've never hurt someone else on purpose before, could I really kill someone? multiple people? an entire race? I need to ask him more questions before I decide.

>>634929

"I-I can't kill somebody for no reason... and you're asking me to end an entire race!"

"IF YOU HAD LISTENED YOU WOULD KNOW BY NOW THAT MY ILK ARE NO SUCH THING. YOU ARE NOT BEING ASKED TO END A SINGLE LIFE. I ASK INSTEAD FOR YOU TO DISMANTLE MY KIND.'

"you can phrase it however you want, but I'm still snuffing out the life of a thinking entity."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/23(Thu)19:32 No. 636120 ID: 7e38be
File 142984274962.png - (27.13KB , 1000x1000 , 0059.png )

"and why would you even want to destroy them?"

"IN ORDER FOR A CANCER PATIENT'S TREATMENT TO BE EFFECTIVE, THE TUMOR MUST BE REMOVED. INFECTED AND MALICIOUS TISSUE SERVES NO PURPOSE BUT TO HARM THE ENTITY IT INFESTS, DON'T YOU AGREE?"

"a-a what? a cancer? what is a tumor?"

"RIGHT..." Nihilim half mutters to itself, "STILL POKING ABOUT WITH LEECHES AND INCENSE... I SUPPOSE THE SURGICAL STEEL SCALPELS AND PENICILLIN WILL COME ABOUT SOON ENOUGH... IN ANY CASE, YOU NEED TO UNDERSTAND THAT THESE THINGS ARE NOT ALIVE, AND THAT NO ONE AND NOTHING WILL MOURN THEIR PASSING. THE WHY SHOULD NOT CONCERN YOU."

"well, I'm not going to agree to something without knowing why I'm doing it."

"VERY WELL. YOU SPOKE EARLIER ABOUT AGENCY? YOU UNDERSTAND WHAT A DELUSION THAT IS, RIGHT? FREE WILL IS SIMPLY THE MIND'S INABILITY TO PERCIEVE THE STRANDS OF FATE. THE MORTAL MIND CAN NOT UNDERSTAND ITS OWN MEANINGLESSNESS, AND SO YOU VIEW THE RIGID PATH THE FATES CARVE FOR YOU AS A SERIES OF CHOICES AND ACTIONS. IN REALITY, EVERYTHING THAT EVER WAS, AND EVER WILL BE HAS ALREADY BEEN DECIDED BY CREATURES OUTSIDE OF SPACE AND TIME. THE FATES ARE ABOVE EACH AND EVERY OTHER BEING. I KNOW THAT NOW, PERHAPS IT WAS TOO LATE WHEN I FINALLY REALIZED IT." the creature trails off, then snaps back to attention, "REGARDLESS. UNDERSTAND THAT THE REASON I MUST END MY KIND IS SIMPLY THAT IT MUST HAPPEN. I SIMPLY AM THAT WHICH EXISTS TO CEASE. THE STRINGS ARE NOT ALWAYS CLEAR, BUT THEY ARE NEVER WRONG. FOR INSTANCE, I ALREADY KNOW THAT YOU WILL ACCEPT MY OFFER, SIMPLY BECAUSE IT MUST HAPPEN. THIS LITTLE... NEGOTIATION? A FORMALITY. ONCE AGAIN TRICKING THAT FRONTAL LOBE INTO VALUING ITS OWN EXISTANCE..."

>>634932

"where would I find them? what would I need to do in order to... um... destroy them?"

"BE PATIENT. AS I SEE IT, YOU WILL CROSS PATHS WITH THEM IN TIME, AND TIME IS SOMETHING YOU WILL HAVE NO SHORTAGE OF. AS FAR AS DESTROYING THEM, ANY OBJECT BREAKS IF THE RIGHT FORCE IS APPLIED IN THE RIGHT SPOT. ONE OF MY KIND IS NO DIFFERENT. ONCE THE DIVINITY IS PULLED, SHRIEKING FROM THEIR BUSOM, THEY WILL MOVE NO LONGER. IF I'M NOT MISTAKEN YOU WILL BE SEEING A DEMONSTRATION SOON ENOUGH."

"will this seed hurt?"

"YOU WILL FIND PAIN... TAKES ON A NEW DEFINITION ONCE YOU SHED YOUR MORTALITY. IT WILL HURT, CERTAINLY, BUT DYING ALWAYS DOES, DOESN'T IT?"

"wait, you never said anything about dying!"

"WHAT IS IT EXACTLY YOU THOUGHT IMMORTALITY WAS? IT MEANS WITHOUT LIFE."

>>634967

"ok, so you're going to kill me, and then I'm immortal... would my mind still be... me?"

"I DON'T UNDERSTAND THE QUESTION. YOU WILL REMEMBER WHAT YOU USED TO BE, CERTAINLY. YOU WILL FIND YOUR BEHAVIOR MAY BE ALTERED AFTER A FEW CENTURIES. ONE'S SENSE OF PERSPECTIVE TENDS TO SKEW ONCE THEY SEE ALL THEIR LOVED ONES DIE OVER AND OVER... AND OVER..."

>>634992

"I have plans currently, I need to get out of this cave with my friend."

"YOUR FRIEND? THE CORPSE? OR THE MURDERER?"

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/04/23(Thu)19:32 No. 636121 ID: 7e38be
File 142984276499.png - (35.77KB , 1000x1000 , 0060.png )

"the...? no, Strauss, the Mraach that came with me."

"I HAVE NO CLUE WHAT A MRAACH IS BUT ALL I SENSE NEARBY IS THE FRESHLY DECEASED AND A MAN WHO MURDERED A SOLDIER. AS I SAID BEFORE, YOU MAY TAKE YOUR TIME... THE OTHERS WILL COME TO YOU."

well I've asked more questions... I feel more confused and apprehensive about all of this now, but it looks like I'll need to make a decision. I can't keep stalling. either I take this deal, or I walk out of here.

Quite the dilemma.

You could have everything that you could ever want, but it comes with a hefty price tag - war on entities that could survive the death of a universe.

But do you really think that your life could be better if you reject his offer and attempt to escape?

Why not visit the other siblings first? Prove that you are capable of confronting them without the power of a divine seed, and then decide if you really want to war against them.

Test the waters. I mean, would you be capable of war if you could not fight as you are right now?

Do it. What he asks is simple enough and this sort of deal almost never comes along in a lifetime. That and your chances of survival go up considerably.

Also Strauss is walking in your direction sans crutch. And he switched his axe to his other hand. Not saying he is a threat but you never know how people will take there secrets getting revealed.

He might just be approaching now that he knows this thing is not a immediate threat. Or he has been faking how injured he was and now that you know his horrible secret is going to axe murder you. The axe murdering part is probably unlikely. But would feel bad if we did not mention the possibility.

I don't like the idea of watching infinite generations of loved ones passing before us for all eternity, and I've always been one for flipping off destiny. He says you're going to accept? Do you want to prove him wrong? Say no.

Unless, of course, he's lying through his teeth and using reverse psychology. That's certainly an option.

>>636121
...I want you to say no. Just to see how this thing reacts to someone defying fate.

Strauss is the corpse, obviously, as he has a hole in him, able to walk despite being heavily paralyzed, and Ulric only had the self-inflicted wound. Clarify to this stone dude: the man carrying the axe is Strauss. If "Strauss" is some kind of puppet by now, and the thing controlling him has been talking through him all this time... you may have no choice. "Strauss" may be about to axe you, so agreeing to the deal may be your only chance to survive, and hunt down the thing that killed him and Ulric.

>ALL I SENSE NEARBY IS THE FRESHLY DECEASED AND A MAN WHO MURDERED A SOLDIER.
Probably Strauss putting Ulric out of his misery. Or killing the Daemon. Hell, could have nothing to do with the current situation, and it's a past he's left behind. No reason to bother with that.
>"a-a what? a cancer? what is a tumor?"
Imagine, if you will, an insect leaving eggs in the flesh of the living. Cancer is sort of like that, but it's your own body leaving a bunch of tiny ovoid objects in itself, and they grow, getting bigger. If you want to remove it, you have to cut with care; if you simply try to cut without careful calculations, and pull out a chunk, you may be cutting out healthy flesh, or you might be leaving in some of the "Cancer." Cancer is sort of like a starfish--As long as it's still alive, it will grow back. It cannot live without the blood from your own body, though, so removing it will kill it, allowing your body to heal up.
>FREE WILL IS SIMPLY THE MIND'S INABILITY TO PERCIEVE THE STRANDS OF FATE.
Heh, thing about strings... They're typically many separate strands woven together. Sure, their path goes in the same direction, but the experiences are different--Some may tear and flay after a certain distance, while others keep going on. There are those who gnaw at their fate, and leave some strands to fall apart, altering where those paths end up. Sometimes, a frayed strand connects to another string, as well, allowing somebody to step into a whole new direction.
Immortality is no light path. Think of the path leading up to it as a fully woven string--But once you hit the immortality, you hit vice, holding the string to that point together, while the strands, ALL of them, go separate ways afterwards. You will gain the ability to change your fate by a grand amount, but you also will lose the ability to reach the ends that were initially available.

My personal recommendation? Go for it only if you have an out. A way to end yourself, as well; not just the other immortals. Everlasting immortality isn't all it's cracked up to be.

Defying fate yet at the same time it seems in our nature to try to defy fate.

It's never been written in stone whether or not you'd become immortal, but I say it's in your best interests to.

>BE PATIENT. AS I SEE IT, YOU WILL CROSS PATHS WITH THEM IN TIME, AND TIME IS SOMETHING YOU WILL HAVE NO SHORTAGE OF
It occurs to me that literally limitless time somewhat removes the burden of your task.

So long as they can't reproduce, you can literally wait them out. If there's no time limit, you could wait until each and every one of them wanted to die. (Or until they do something that proves them deserving of death). You're obligated to complete the task eventually, not as soon as possible, and your eventually could be quite long.

>THE CORPSE? OR THE MURDERER?
Say this, verbatim, and quickly. "Who approaches behind me?"

...although, I would point out, just because Strauss might be a zombie or a killer doesn't necessarily make him bad. After all, if you take this deal, you'll be "without life" yourself and obligated to kill some people / things.

>but it looks like I'll need to make a decision
Okay, you have two obvious choices.

One is to say no to the crazy person who wants to do something you don't understand to you, who's only justification is babbling about fate (and we're fates! That's saying something if we question it). It's just another trap or danger down here.

The other is to accept immortality, because, realistically, your odds of making it of here alive are not good. Maybe this will make your life complicated later, but is that such a price to pay? This is not an opportunity you'll ever have again.

...go for it. You'll spend the rest of your life wondering, if you don't. And if you need to fix things, you'll have time.

>defy fate?
Of course... since we're fate, that kind of makes that meaningless.

You can say what's fated is what you will do, but turn that around and we're just saying the future that happens is fated. Tautology. The future always happens. What happens happens.

>>636121
Take the deal.

It feels like the question here is how far are you willing to go to gain power, what sacrifices are you willing to make. Will you throw away your life and everything you are to become something more, how many others will you cast down to further your own goals, who will you cast aside? These are the questions you should be asking yourself because this choice, no mater what you pick, will shape the rest of your days. Just know that power always comes at a price and you may not know what that price is until it is much to late.

Also your crippled friend is coming up behind you with an ax sooooo that's happening.

>>636171
Perhaps he is (rightfully) concerned about the large, dripping, and really really pointy tendril hovering over us.
In fact, why don't we just ax him what's up?

Power gives you options. The powerless have to live with whatever life throws at them because they do not have the strength to change there fate.

Sure there are downsides to his offer. But there are when you make any decision in life. But I am betting the perks will outweigh any problems.

That and if you get tired of immortality you can end it some day. But if you are mortal you don't have nearly as much choice over when and why you die.

So I say go for it. We will still guide you either way you choose but this seems like a good deal.

>That and if you get tired of immortality you can end it some day.
That kind of depends on the type of immortality. There's a spectrum from 'won't die until killed' to 'can't be killed' to 'inviolate immovable object'.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/07(Thu)00:56 No. 638787 ID: 7e38be
File 143098541121.png - (49.29KB , 1000x1000 , 0061.png )

>>636134
>>636171
>>636174

"who approaches behind me?" I whisper shortly.

"YOU LEFT MUCH MORE OF YOUR PAST IN THAT WAGON THAN YOU THINK, KLANGG.", Nihilim laughs evilly, "WHY DON'T YOU ASK 'STRAUSS'?"

"can you answer a single question straight?"

"DEPENDS ON THE QUESTION. PERHAPS YOU'VE BEEN ASKING THE WRONG QUESTIONS?"

Strauss moves between me and the tendril, "what is this thing, Weaver?"

"it's um... I'm not sure... it's not hostile."

"it's pointing a stinger at your face."

I shrug, "it's kind of a long story... it's asking me to do it a favor, and in return, it will... um..."

"please tell me this gigantic stinger has nothing to do with it..."

I shrug, smiling awkwardly, then turn back to Nihilim.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/07(Thu)00:57 No. 638789 ID: 7e38be
File 143098546267.png - (20.43KB , 1000x1000 , 0062.png )

>>636128
>>636129

"what if I say no? you said that you can't give me your seed unless I accept it, so if I refuse, then your predetermination falls apart."

"INDEED, IF YOU DECLINE MY OFFER, IT WOULD DEFY FATE ENTIRELY. THE QUESTION IS, WOULD YOU BE WILLING TO GIVE UP THIS OPPORTUNITY SIMPLY TO SPITE A FATE THAT HAS ALREADY BEEN WRITTEN?"

>>636123

"could I meet the others before I decide?"

"WOULD YOU BELIEVE YOU WILL BE SPEAKING WITH ONE OF THEM SHORTLY? IT WILL NOT BE A PLEASANT CONVERSATION. UNFORTUNATELY, IT WILL BE SOME TIME BEFORE YOU MEET THE OTHERS; REST ASSURED, THOUGH, YOU WILL BE MEETING EACH OF MY SIBLINGS IN TIME."

"if I have unlimited time, couldn't I just wait until eventually your siblings want to die? my 'eventually' would be a pretty long time, huh?"

"THEORETICALLY, THOUGH I WOULD WARN YOU, I AND MY SIBLINGS ARE NOT SIMPLY TIMELESS. THIS... SLUMBER MAY HAVE SLOWED US DOWN, BUT WE HAVE TASKS THAT FATE DECREES WE MUST CARRY OUT. IF YOU WERE TO ATTEMPT TO 'WAIT US OUT' YOU WOULD SEE THOSE TASKS CARRIED OUT. I WOULD SUGGEST YOU NOT LET THAT HAPPEN."

"what tasks?"

"IT DEPENDS. AS I SAID, MY TASK IS TO END MY KIND, BUT THE OTHERS HAVE SEPARATE OBLIGATIONS.'

>>636179

"this eternal life... could it end somehow?"

"WOULD YOU BE ABLE TO CEASE YOURSELF IF YOU BECOME TIRED OF EXISTING, YOU MEAN? I SUPPOSE SO. YOU MORTALS ALWAYS WONDER SUCH INANE THINGS WHEN PRESENTED WITH ETERNITY. YOUR PERSPECTIVE WILL SHIFT AFTER A FEW CENTURIES, I ASSURE YOU. YOU FIND EVEN WITH LIMITLESS TIME, YOU NEVER HAVE THE TIME YOU NEED. IMPORTANT THINGS KEEP SLIPPING THROUGH YOUR TREMBLING FINGERS LIKE SAND, SHINING IN THE PALE MOONLIGHT..."

the colossus seems lost for a few seconds.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/07(Thu)00:58 No. 638790 ID: 7e38be
File 143098549874.png - (25.39KB , 1000x1000 , 0063.png )

>>636178
>>636151
>>636133
>>636127

"Strauss, I need you to step aside, please."

he looks back with a look of concern, "not going to happen. whatever this thing is I'm not letting it get to you. it'll have to go through me first."

"I CAN ARRANGE THAT. THIS CREATURE'S BODY IS LITTLE MORE THAN SOFT MEAT AND BONE.'

"that won't be necessary, friend." I assure the goliath.

"whatever this thing is saying to you, don't listen to it." Strauss turns to Nihilim, "the Whisper in the Mane speaks and I hear it, Nihilim. do not speak your poison to me or to this girl."

"WE CAN BOTH SPIT NAMES AT EACH OTHER, KESSLAR."

he opens his mouth to speak, but then closes it.

"Strauss, that name... Kesslar... I've heard it before."

he looks back, "I have no idea what it's talking about."

>>638790
Ask Strauss to tell you the truth. You trust him more than Nihilim. What does that name mean? Does it have something to do with why he's able to walk around unassisted while envenomed and missing a large chunk of his torso? Also, explain what the deal is Nihilim is offering. Tell him you are considering agreeing (though I personally still want to say no, to prove that fate is not set in stone)

Hang on... ask how your body will function after you become "immortal". Will wounds kill you? Will they heal with unnatural speed? Will your heart still beat, will your body be warm? Will you still be able to eat, drink, among other biological things?

>>638790
Where have you heard the name before? Myths, news, around town?

>>638793
spiting fate to site fate and no other higher reason is silly. what do we gain from saying no?

i still say take it. and if he refuses to leave duck and kick him in the back of the knees.

>Strauss trying to protect you
Look, if it really meant me harm, why ask for anything? It had ample opportunity to just stab me.

...And can we really afford to turn down something that might help? We're not in a good situation down here.

>that name... Kesslar... I've heard it before.
Context, please? We haven't.

Remember, also, even if he's got a hidden past, it does change the way he already treated you. He's still him.

Is that another name for the "Whispers in the mane"?
Also living forever is your choice kid, just remember "immortality is a curse I would not wish upon my greatest of enemies".

Strauss I am strongly considering its offer. If you want to sway my opinion I think the time for hiding things is past.

If I am to accept or decline this properly I need to go into it knowing all the facts. No matter how painful they might be.

Still voting for taking the offer but more info is good.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/25(Mon)08:30 No. 643012 ID: 7e38be
File 143256782865.png - (40.69KB , 1000x1000 , 0064.png )

I remember the name but I don't remember who. it's just on the edge of my thought, like a dream.

"Strauss... who's Kesslar?"

he looks at me silently with a fearful desperation in his eyes.

"you know something, and you're not telling me." I press him, "I trust you, more than this thing, but you need to be open with me."

"I'm sorry." he replies.

"...fine." I huff, "if you won't tell me then I have nothing else to consider, do I?"

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/25(Mon)08:30 No. 643013 ID: 7e38be
File 143256785345.png - (42.13KB , 1000x1000 , 0065.png )

I step forward, pushing Strauss out of the way, "Nihilim. I accept."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/25(Mon)08:31 No. 643014 ID: 7e38be
File 143256787134.png - (50.84KB , 1000x1000 , 0066.png )

first comes a moment of pain.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/25(Mon)08:31 No. 643015 ID: 7e38be
File 143256789353.png - (48.77KB , 1000x1000 , 0067.png )

...then a moment of clarity.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/25(Mon)08:31 No. 643016 ID: 7e38be
File 143256791718.png - (5.58KB , 1000x1000 , 0068.png )

then... darkness.

this is a two-parter. More update coming soon, but feel free to post now. suggestions will be carried over to the next update.

Well, that was gory. See anything? Able to taste the colors yet?

Are you experiencing a 'spike' in neural activity?

Concentrate. Don't lose yourself in the divine seed, it's got enough to contend with already.

You know, when we joked about losing your virginity earlier, tentacle skullfucking wasn't exactly what we had in mind.

Um. Seriously, you okay? I'm gonna feel really bad if we talked you into letting him murder you.

the choice has been made but has the price been fully paid? Let's find out... and I'm wondering just how bad Strauss is freaking out after seeing that? Not going to lie I'm feeling like we kinda screwed the pouch a little here.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/27(Wed)08:33 No. 643475 ID: 7e38be
File 143274082236.png - (38.30KB , 1000x1000 , 0076.png )

I wake screaming. I don't know why.

"Weaver, you're awake!" Strauss gasps, relieved. he looks stressed, and tired. how long was I asleep? or dead... I guess?

I feel an unfamiliar pressure in my skull and down my spine, but it doesn't hurt. in fact, I can't feel any pain from my side or my forehead.

that... dream? I'm not sure what I saw, but for some reason I can't get that signpost or that creature out of my head...

what should I do now?

Prance about with your sparkly new unicorn horn.

You're... leashed? Don't like the symbolism, there.

Feel horny. And by that, I mean feel up your new horn.

That wasn't in the advertisement. And it kind of gives away you're not normal. Poor design, that. You'll need a hat to fit in. ...or start a fashion trend where people strap horns to their heads. An advantage of long life is you have some ability to shape or influence the culture you live in.

Ask what happened and how long you were out.

...pinch yourself. Get Strauss to pinch you. Maybe escalate to poking yourself with something sharp. We should test if immortal means you still hurt / bleed. Or can be harmed.

Do you still have a pulse? Do you breathe? Are you warm, or are you cold now?

Also. There's no blood. Did he clean you up?

That creature...It's somewhat of an odd representation of us, the fates in a way, that string was your connection to fate itself, the Strand of Fate itself.

You have true free will now, I wonder how that will change what was your original destiny. We are so proud of you.

Though considering that signpost, your destiny may have been to die soon, so who knows. You've got a new fancy horn, I wouldn't recommend tugging on it.

the red string of fate. yours is severed.

the sign, the one that said tombstone was crossed out. Asked what happened after... well after you got a hole drilled into your head? Oh and on a related note, I really do like the horn, it brings out your eyes.

What should you do? That is entirely up to you know, as you are a Weaver of your own fate. What is your name, anyway? I don't think it ever came up. You could call yourself X the Fateless from now on, wouldn't that be cool?

Might I suggest checking up on Nihilim? I noticed that when it delivered the divine seed, the lights in the cavern turned red. They're still red.

>>643475
That creature was surprisingly honest. I think you just had your original destiny surgically removed.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/28(Thu)11:51 No. 643709 ID: 7e38be
File 143283906739.png - (23.21KB , 1000x1000 , 0077.png )

>>643061

>I'm gonna feel really bad if we talked you into letting him murder you.

well no offense but you kind of did that exactly, buddy.

>>643110

Strauss looks like he's freaking out pretty bad. I probably should have warned him.

>>643041
>>643040
>>643024

I feel different, that's for sure. I don't exactly feel smarter, but I feel more... aware, I guess? it's difficult to describe, but I'm noticing things I didn't before. I can feel Strauss' heartbeat, and hear a low vibrating hum from the crystals.

>>643479
>>643493
>>643505

>You have true free will now, We are so proud of you.

maybe? that creature seemed so malicious in the dream though. the look on its face was pure hatred...

how do I even test having free will?

>>643476
>>643477

pulse. check. breathing. check. body heat. check.

"Oh no what the hell is this thing?" I touch the 8 inch bone spike.

"I don't know." Strauss replies, "after the creature did whatever it did to you, its appendage snapped off. what... what was that? what did that thing do to you?"

"I'm not entirely sure. it said it needs me to do something in return for it giving me some sort of Divine power."

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/28(Thu)11:51 No. 643711 ID: 7e38be
File 143283910863.png - (37.52KB , 1000x1000 , 0078.png )

"and you just accepted that?" he replies, dumbfounded, "that could have killed you, it should have killed you! it could have been some parasite or some kind of mind control!"

"if Nihilim were going to kill me it wouldn't need to trick me. the thing is like ten stories tall."

"none of that matters, anyway." Strauss says, "I'm glad you're alright."

>>643478

"did you clean the blood off of my face while I was out?"

he nods, scratching the back of his neck, "I cleaned you up because I thought you might have... I was waiting for your pulse to stop before I..."

I shake my head, "no, spare me the details, I'm good."

"hey Strauss." I say finally, "do you know my name?"

he is silent for a few moments, "Ravlikin, I think."

"no, that's my clan name. do you know my first name?"

"I do not, I'm sorry."

"it's fine, thanks anyway." I shrug. I guess I'm nameless for now.

Sports Drink with Electrolytes 2015/05/28(Thu)11:52 No. 643712 ID: 7e38be
File 143283913338.png - (32.03KB , 1000x1000 , 0079.png )

"IF THE BOTH OF YOU ARE DONE CATCHING UP, WE HAVE BUSINESS TO DISCUSS. I'VE GIVEN YOU IMMORTALITY, KLANGG, NOW YOU MUST UPHOLD YOUR END OF THE BARGAIN."