5/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094770 ID: 3f89df
File 172202995757.png - (13.41KB , 500x500 , as the artist who knows what she looks like she is.png )

I move on to the next one. It is a blood-red, draconian kobold child or something from another race. It's hard to tell, as she wears a thick veil all over her body. She seems moderately dressed in some long robes. Her voice is soft but quite loud as if multiple mouths were talking simultaneously.
"My..m-y I'm sorry Madam! please don't hit me!" She seems to brace herself but seems confused when the blows aren't hit. For the sake of keeping my intentions unclear, I don't say anything.
"M-m-mm, madam? Sorry, my name is Runi; I don't have a last name. I'm good at magic and researching artifacts, but my magic may not be something you like, madam."
I turn to the baron. "If you don't mind me asking, why does she wear that veil?"
The knight loudly responds, and I see Runi shrink away from the noise. "Cause she's an ugly bastard, that's why! A pure-blooded abomination, that thing! She looks like her mother came from the Corrupted Wilds, and her Father was a blobfish; it's no wonder the Grenfell House gave her as tribute; what a waste she is!"
I hear Runi loudly sobbing, her hands bound by her chains, as her tears fall from her eyes."
The Baron seems to ignore the Knights' barbarism and looks at me. "She's a terrible slave, through and through. So I'll give you a deal: 3 gold, although I am willing to accept giving her for free if you buy at least three slaves."
Despite my maternal instincts screaming at me to help the sorrowful child, I move on down the line.

6/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094771 ID: 3f89df
File 172202996073.png - (13.53KB , 500x500 , is this just an ordniary adventuere or a bard.png )

It's a human, a tad taller than the others, with a thin yet still muscular frame and flamboyant features.
"My name is Aludem Huen I'm a former adventurer; I can Travel, fight, play music on my lute, and tell tales of adventure that'll last multiple generations to come."

"Don't listen to this bandit. he's an "adventurer" who attempted to double-cross us during trade. Instead of throwing him into the ocean like we should have, we kept him around since there'd be a suitable punishment back home in the empire. 40 gold"

7/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094772 ID: 3f89df
File 172202996275.png - (13.62KB , 500x500 , birrrrrrrrrrrd.png )

I go up to the next one; it is a long, thin, bird-like race with a pronounced beak and swift bird-like legs.
"Greetings, My name is Leiko Theresa, pleasure to make you aquantince, in my old life I was an Jewler or Tailor, but if it's anything that requires me using my claws, I can easily fit that into your role."

"35 gold"

8/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094773 ID: 3f89df
File 172202996558.png - (14.01KB , 500x500 , oi you cant have a sexy cat girl in your party tha.png )

The next one seems to be a breed of blue-skinned humans with odd cat-like features; they have a soft face and defined features and seem to be what humans would call "Attractive."
Before I can question her, the Baron immediately speaks up, and one of the knights blocks me from her view. "Hey, you can't have that one. That type's the King's Favriote 150 Gold."
I quickly move on to the next.

9/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094774 ID: 3f89df
File 172202996721.png - (10.00KB , 500x500 , crabbbbbbbbbbbbbbbb killllllllllllllllllllllll.png )

It is a small crab-like race. He eyes me suspiciously
"Oh just you wait- just you wait until I'm Free! FREE! I Tell you! I'll Kill you, I'll kill you all! When I get bigger then you'll be crushed between my claws ya hear? KILL-"
"Those Crab races are nothing but an menace, 10 gold."

10/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094775 ID: 3f89df
File 172202997035.png - (9.63KB , 500x500 , fat cat but he just an working class.png )

I move on to the next one, It is a medium-sized tuxedo cat.
"My name's Punt Lil. I'll keep this short for both of us, I used to be a Miller, but then I became a Baker!" They say.
"35 Gold"

11/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094776 ID: 3f89df
File 172202997230.png - (9.06KB , 500x500 , bee me me beeeee.png )

Next is a Race that Crocodile And I are more than familiar with Eusa's. They seem to have either ant, bee, termite, or a mixture of eusocial insect traits. I know from first-hand experience that Insectia cares more for their Queen's Will and Mission above all else, so she'd make a terrible long-time member, especially if we get ambushed by Eusa's shortly.

"Hunter, Fisher, Herbalist, Gaurd," She says blankly. She didn't even give me a chance to speak.

"20 Gold."

12/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094777 ID: 3f89df
File 172202997474.png - (16.97KB , 500x500 , nyehehyehehehehehhe nyeh and i say i-.png )

The next one is- I almost jump back in surprise from their appearance and stench; it seems to be some sort of magically resurrected skeleton, but obviously not a mindless drone, from what I've seen before.

"Hark, Miss Empress Cutebold, I'm Tomp Hearl, Former Human turned Profane. While I was a Scholar for the Profane faction and avid user of the Dark Arts, It seems that my current predicament in the hands of the empire makes it so that will not be possible. You may be taken aback by my appearance, and that would be reasonable for mortals, but Since I can not get sick, nor suffer the effects of poison nor sores I can easily deal with the less *pleasant* side of running a colony."

"This one gives a big talk, but it seemed like his savage brothers wanted to get rid of him as soon as possible. Nonetheless, if he's telling the truth, he'd be an excellent slave for you barbarians. 50 gold."

13/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094778 ID: 3f89df
File 172202997757.png - (11.31KB , 500x500 , lizard with boobies no way its the lizard with boo.png )

The next slave seems to be a large reptile girl. Her head and body parts are possibly covered in scales in an armadillo-like fashion. She also seems to have mammalian lumps. That's quite odd for a reptile.

"Welp, whatever I say can't be as good as that pitch, Heya new masters, I'm Untella Brendmear I used to do mercenary work due to reasons that I won't bog you down with, but I then moved to bartending for awhile until the empire swiped in, stole my supplies and shop, and now I'm here, destined to go to god's knows where to mine stupid shit until I collapse dead. Ya, I know there going to whip me till I can't walk ounce your gone, but I honestly don't care anymore."

14/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094779 ID: 3f89df
File 172202998013.png - (9.79KB , 500x500 , Good boi sorry i mean girl i mean boi i mean grill.png )

The next one is a frankly adorable small dog-like race that resembles Corgis. I'd want to pet this little guy severely if this wasn't a professional setting.

"Howdy there miss! I'm Sweetie Huntdrop, Me and pops was farmers more specifically we where fruit producers, If you'd choose me, I'll let you in on a family secret that's been passed down for generations, upon generations. I know it'd be worth all the gold that ya'll keeping!"

"More Farmers have no use to the Empire, 15 Gold."

15/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094780 ID: 3f89df
File 172202998244.png - (10.51KB , 500x500 , bovaine with bovaine equals bovine bovine plus bov.png )

The next one is a sizeable bovine race covered in fur, even over its eyes. It bears its muzzle and has an underbite tooth.

"I used to be a dock worker, so I mainly did heavy hauling and occasional construction or repairs if it was needed, oh and before I forget, my name's Dieala Vun! Pleasure to be meeting you!"

[color=#8836E1] "30 gold"

I go to the next slave; it appears to be some sort of human; there's an awkward silence between us, but just as I'm about to leave, they physically grab me and pull me closer to them.
"Wait, before you leave, I'm not what I seem, I assure you, My name is Kent If you have enemies, Any enemies, I'll help you slaughter them, I won't hurt you. But please, I'm hungry; And if I'm stuck here any longer I'll starve, please-"

They are hit on the back of the head by one of the knights: "Know your place Thrall, Hands off your potential Savage Master, whose got hands in gold, they are worth more then you'll ever be."

The baron says, "25 gold."

17/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094782 ID: 3f89df
File 172202998763.png - (5.59KB , 500x500 , awwwwwwwwww sad boi whos changed up and then going.png )

The Second to the Last seems to be some sort of Gelatinous Slime creature that attempts to have a human-like frame but lacks the necessary details to look human.

"......."
"Can you speak?" I reply
It shakes its head.
"Can you write?"
It nods its head.
"Can you do basic, and complex tasks?"
It nods its head again.

"The slime is 20 gold."

18/18 Grey 2024/07/26(Fri)14:39 No. 1094783 ID: 3f89df
File 172202999083.png - (33.59KB , 500x500 , small shadow child.png )

Finally, the last one seems to be some sort of creature the size of us; they have a horn protruding from their head that goes back and a semi-large tail, they have what seems to have large bat-like ears, and are covered head-to-toe in bandages.

"Are you going to call me an abomination, too?"
"What?"
"Everyone who sees me calls me an abomination, it's why mommy didn't want me anymore, called me the spawn of Ueritix, why the pastors threatened to burn me at the stake, why mommy sold me to the empire."
"Hey, hey, it's alright, little one. Can I ask what your name is?"
"It's Uea, my race's tongue for demon spawn. Mommy doesn't want me to use her last name; she said she'd beat me if I did."

"Kids are useless for anything other than washing floors, and shoveling dung 10 gold."


Seeing all of these unknown races makes me feel as if we kobolds have been relatively isolated from the broader world for centuries.
Finally, with all of the slaves out of the way, It's now time to make a decision, Muni; even though we have 325 gold, It would be less than ideal if we spent it all on these slaves; we still need supplies, and with every new recruit it is another mouth to feed, which is vital to consider if they aren't focused on anything that won't help us produce food, it's also essential to consider a person who won't betray us at a moments notice.

So Muni, who do we choose?

[1] Trick RedClaw: (Gnoll) Hauler, Wood Carver, Light Construction, Hunter, Gaurd. 40 gold.
[2] Muni R (Red) (???) Magic Researcher and Magic Caster. (Free if I choose up to three slaves) 3-5 gold.
[3] Aludem Huen (Human) Former Adventuerer, Gaurd, Bard, Thief.
[4] Leiko Theresa (Long-Limbed Bird Race) Tailor, Jeweler, Flexible. 35 Gold
[5] (Blue Skinned Cat-Like Human) ??? (King's favorite Race.) 150 Gold.
[6] Punt Lil (Tuxedo Cat-in?) Miller, Baker. 35 Gold
[7] ??? (Eusa's) Guard, Herbalist, Hunter, Fisher. 20 gold
[8] Tomp Hearl (Profane (Skeleton)) Scholar, Necromancer, User of Dark Arts, Willing to deal with disgusting things. 50 gold
[9] Untella Brendmear (Armadillo-like Lizard Race with breasts?) Former Mercanry, Bartender. 30 gold
[10] Sweetie Huntdrop (Corgi-like race) Farmer. 15 gold
[11] Dieala Vun (Furry-Bovine race) Hauler, Construction, repaired ships and the docks. 30 gold.
[12] ??? (Small Crab race) Has murderous intent. 10 gold
[13] Kent (Not a Human (Shape Shifter?) Hungry? Has combat skills? 30 gold.
[14] ??? (Slime) I can do simple and complex tasks and write. 30 gold.
[15] Uea (Child: Abomination?) It is somehow demonic in nature, 10 gold.

>>1094783
...
Grey mother, would that you could take them all...

1, 4, 9, 10, 11 then 15 with poor little runi for free.

I still say the intent should be to offer them a path to freedom.
To join with you or earn their freedom.
When what you have payed to free them is recovered, or its value in labour returned, then they are free.
The money can then be used to free another enslaved soul.

I hope talking with you will convince them of the value they would have and the regard they would be held in if they join you.

I council kindness grey mother.
Open hands and hearts may open thier minds to your ways.
A nation of free souls is better than a gathering of shackled ones.

>>1094769
Hm...
Risky. I don't think we can trust him; if we had a stronger army I'd take the deal, but it would be like buying a lit bomb. This man cannot be restrained by anything we can currently make, so if he goes rampant, people will die.
I'm okay if you buy his contract, but be ready for the worst...

>>1094770
You so need to buy her contract immediately. Cheap price means you lose little if she chooses to leave, and you can easily connect to her low self-esteem with your own bandage issues. Even if she doesn't have an Occultist power, having a loyal handmaiden will help you get more done each day, and having a friend will help your stress levels.

>>1094771
Ah, a classic rogue/bard. These guys are shifty, but usually care more about survival than murder. If he turns on you, it's just a matter of maintaining cohesion to mitigate any tricks he has. And as much as I don't want to admit it, having a human silver-tongue will seriously improve your diplomatic relations with the human empire. Worth the risk.

>>1094772
Unfortunately, I don't think we need her services yet. Precision crafting is going to be important in the mid-game, but that requires engineering laboratories and equipment worth thousands of gold. The long-term plans for our defense and armies involve guns, magic, and tech, meaning her claws will be a long-term detriment - kind of hard to hold a gun with giant keratin fingers.

>>1094773
Well, dang. I get the feeling there could be an investment opportunity here, but those soldiers would sooner go hostile than let their promotion requirement slip out of their fingers. Only way we'd get her is by attacking the convoy. and that's suicide.
Still, the Emperor loves blue-skinned catgirls. That intel will be useful, I'm sure. Apologize to the lady for her upcoming concubine status and give her an expensive gift, personally. Maybe she'll be... 'removed' quickly, but if she becomes part of the Emperor's harem, every favor you can court will be repaid tenfold.

>>1094774
Oh, quite the menace indeed! It's clear that this fellow isn't going to ally with you if you buy him, but his purchase price is cheap, he's not as invincible as he thinks he is, and his anger makes him honest. Despite the risk, I think we can try to earn his respect by pitting him against Gin. If it fails or if the psycho tries to kill us, Gin can kill him in ritual combat as tribute for his blood gods, which will make him more powerful.

>>1094775
I just... no. Expensive, weak official skillset, and very suspicious.
If you need baking tips, we can transfer some. Mediocre baking is incredibly easy and we won't need gourmet chefs for a while.

>>1094776
Ah, a hive species. I don't think she'll stay with us permanently, but you can see that she is very rational. She knows that she stands a better chance of making it back to her hive to serve if she serves as a temporary paid worker for us first. Her skillset is strong and generalized, meaning she'll make good work for us before she heads back to her hive. Definitely grab her, she's low risk, high short-term reward.

>>1094777
Well, you heard the man. Ultimately, my gripe is his extreme cost; if he bolts, there's little you can do to recoup your losses - he's just bones!
Too expensive, but otherwise a fair investment.

>>1094778
A hybrid? Cheap price, and I think we can sway her. She sounds like she'd make a great merchant, and if we save her ass then she'll owe us a favor regardless of how she gets back on her feet. Merchants and mercs need to keep their word, or they'll find that the once apathetic market is going to stare at them.

>>1094779
Definitely get her. Not for the secret, but because she's cheap and you will need farmers. Even if she leaves, she can spread word to her fellow farmers.

>>1094780
Well, you can get her if you want, but... I don't think her modest strength score is powerful enough to justify her purchase price. Even if she has sailing skills, we're not going to need those anytime soon.

>>1094781
...His name is Kent?
If this guy is who I think he is, then he's more powerful than he realizes. House El is famous for its heroes, born with the power to turn sunlight into physical and magical super-strength, and famed for their unwavering beliefs in morality and honor.
Pity that those idiots kept supporting empires over ghettoes.

>>1094782
Great deal, here. Modest price for a woman whose body gives her the potential to learn complex skills while mitigating most physical dangers. Main downside is that she won't give much if she chooses to just leave, but it's not a steep loss compared to the others.

>>1094783
I think he's a good deal. Cheap, and since the rest of the world considers him a pariah, I'm confident he'll stay with you if you show him respect. His species might make him eligible for unique magics.

2, 8, and 13 would have fantastic synergy with eachother. Even if the bag of bones is lying about knowing the dark arts, having someone who needs not eat, drink, breath, nor sleep would be really handy! Plus, he could wear the slime like a living armor. I bet together the two would be quite formidable!
Meanwhile, if the skeleton *isn't* lying about his capabilities, the free caster and he will create many, many magical possibilities for us!

Why on earth wouldn't your mommy want an adorable abomination like you?

>>1094785
These are good choices, solid workers without strange quirks that will get this settlement up and running.

This rotten empire needs to die, but that's something for the far future.

1/9 Grey 2024/08/07(Wed)12:49 No. 1095492 ID: 3f89df
File 172306017357.png - (23.18KB , 500x500 , wow thats a lot of slaves i mean denizines i mean.png )

>>1094823
>>1094785
>>1094823
>>1094796

Woah, that's a lot of choices and opinions I must sort through; let me hear you out individually, and I'll add my own opinions.

>Grey mother, would you take them all...
>1, 4, 9, 10, 11 then 15 with poor little runi for free.

I'm also hearing a whole bunch of voices talking about those specific slaves:
Trick Claw, Leiko, Untella, Sweetie, Diela, Uea, and Runi.

Many slaves fit the niche that they were currently looking for. Many are good at construction farming, and having a couple of skilled fighters instead of Bardeibor will be helpful if thieves, highwaymen, or pirates show up around here or if we need to travel for trade or other reasons.

Part of me, especially my empathetic side, wishes I could take them all, bearing a few I see no purpose in. Still, I have to reason since there would be so many diffrent people, especially those of wildly diffrent races, cultures and backgrounds, that conflict, especially one in the early stages of our colony, is almost a death sentence. Also, more people means more food and more homes, which means that we'd either need to hunt and gather more, which would eventually run out, putting us in a worse position, or with the homes, means that everybody would need to push themselves even further, not regarding gold cost and my relation with Crocodile would be strained, considering my next plan.

However, while it may anger Crocodile and lessen our trust, I'm willing to get a couple more, especially since there are other sides to consider in this, such as:

>>1094796

>Hm... Risky. We can't trust him; I'd take the deal if we had a stronger army, but it would be like buying a lit bomb. This man cannot be restrained by anything we can currently make, so if he goes rampant, people will die. I'm okay if you buy his contract, but be ready for the worst...

Well, while that is true, and we will most definitely keep an eye on him, You also forget that Bardeibor is also here; I think the worst thing we can do is keep Trick Claw alone with someone else, Bardeibor being an exception, although there is another wrench that is thrown into the works,
I have read that gnolls are pure carnivores, tribal, and have a warrior-like culture. To make ourselves sustainable, Meat will likely get harder and harder to come by, mind you, if he stays.

The worst-case scenario is if we get attacked by a band or hunting party of gnolls. It happens to be of his same tribe, and two things can happen: he either stands up and defends us or de-escalates the tension, or he joins the waring party; either way, he's a risk that I'm willing to take.

>Ah, a classic rogue/bard. These guys are shifty but usually care more about survival than murder. If he turns on you, it's just a matter of maintaining cohesion to mitigate any tricks he has. And as much as I don't want to admit it, having a human silver tongue will seriously improve your diplomatic relations with the human Empire. It's worth the risk.

That's true, especially if we ever conflict with the Empire or any eastern human settlements. It will make trading and general diplomacy much easier, and considering that our last stop before our current predicament was a human settlement, it is invaluable.

Although we won't be able to do it until we can fully trust him, his skills of being a pick-pocket and general thief may come in handy for sabotage, emergencies, and espionage, among other things, considering that none of us or the slaves we have chosen have experience in the seedy underbelly of society I say that he is well worth the investment.

Also, while this applies to him, it applies to the mercenary. Because they clearly emphasize survival rather than other Vices, there's a higher chance they'll stay instead of leaving when they inevitably repay their debts, especially if everything goes according to plan.

In all, I'll purchase him.

2/9 Grey 2024/08/07(Wed)12:49 No. 1095493 ID: 3f89df
File 172306017599.png - (15.27KB , 500x500 , WOAHIS~1.png )

>...His name is Kent? If this guy is who he is, he's more powerful than he realizes. House El is famous for its heroes, born with the power to turn sunlight into physical and magical super-strength, and famed for their unwavering beliefs in morality and honour.
Pity that those idiots kept supporting empires over ghettoes.

Wait, Muni, you do know him? I was initially going to pass on him since his explanation of what he was left vague, except he wasn't what he said he was, which is "human." Still, the fact that you know him, despite how little knowledge was passed down from your mother, must mean that she knew/knows something about this person. Having someone with what you initially said was genuine, my curiosity has been piqued, and I need to know his true nature.

Despite the risk, 25 gold isn't the worst, and if he ends up being useless, well, there has to be someone to do all of the menial labour around the colony.

So, in all, I end up purchasing the following:
[1]: Trick RedClaw (Gnoll) Hauler, Wood Carver, Light Construction, Hunter, Gaurd.  (-40 Gold) [/b]
[2] Muni R (???): Magic Researcher and Magic Caster.  (Free)
[3]  Aludem Huen  (Human) Former Adventuerer, Gaurd, Bard, Thief.
(-40 Gold)
[4] Leiko Theresa (Long-Limbed Bird Race) Tailor, Jeweler, Flexible.
(-35 Gold)
[9] Untella Brendmear (Armadillo-like Lizard Race with breasts?) Former Mercanry, Bartender. (-30 gold)
[10] Sweetie Huntdrop (Corgi-like race) Farmer. (-15 gold)
[11] Dieala Vun (Furry-Bovine race) Hauler, Construction, repaired ships and the docks. (-30 gold.)
[13] Kent (Not a Human (From House El) Hungry? Has combat skills? (-30 gold.)
[15] Uea (Child: Abomination?) It is somehow demonic in nature (-10 gold.)

We have spent [230] gold and have 95 gold remaining. Sure, it's a tad tighter than I'm comfortable with, but it's enough to be a safety net.
If you wish to debate my choices, Muni, I'll provide my reasons. Otherwise, this choice is final.

3/9 Grey 2024/08/07(Wed)12:49 No. 1095494 ID: 3f89df
File 172306017757.png - (16.46KB , 500x500 , ewwwww thats the barons face ewwwwwwwww ewwwwwwwww.png )

As I approach the Baron, thinking of my choices and reasoning, the Baron sneers, "Well? Have you made your decision?"
Looking away from the Baron's gaze, I respond softly, "Yes, I'll get the first, second, third, fourth, ninth, eleven, thirteen, and fifteen in the order you've shown me."
Crocodile raises a quizzical eyebrow and mutters something to himself but says nothing further.
The Baron then commands his knights to bring the slaves forward; he looks up at the sky, his brow furrowed. Does it really take that much energy for humans to calculate such basic math?
After a couple of minutes, the slaves are brought forward, rounded up like cattle about to be fed to a wolf.
"The total for all of these slaves comes down to 230 Gold."
I can feel the Baron's Gaze wash over me; it's intoxicating; I look over to Crocodile, and he returns blankly.
Despite this being a test of my ability to make tough decisions, I can't help but feel he's judging me for not doing what he would have done.

I reply to the Baron, attempting to seem as sympathetic as possible, "My apologies, but I don't have the gold with me now; let me get the required amount to complete this transaction."

The Baron's tone darkens. "Be quick; the Empire's got more pressing matters to work on than to wait on some ankle-biters and their simplistic minds."

4/9 Grey 2024/08/07(Wed)12:49 No. 1095495 ID: 3f89df
File 172306018070.png - (13.72KB , 500x500 , bardeibo0r bardeibor eyes.png )

As I approach the side of our makeshift cottage, I notice Bardeibor waiting in the nearby bushes. I'm half tempted to tell him to join Crocodile so he doesn't get kidnapped, but knowing Bardeibor, he's waiting precisely for that, so he has an excuse to go on a rampage. As much as he's a good guard, his way of thinking terrifies me.

As I look back, I see Crocodile come much closer to the shed but stop at a specific point near the entrance where he can have a more remarkable vantage point of the caravan. I go inside. Without windows or torches in the storage container, It's entirely pitch black, barring the light from the door. Thankfully, I remembered where I put the gold inside one of our rations in a bag. It means I have to eat the rations to not waste it going wrong, but It's okay anyway.

.....

5/9 Grey 2024/08/07(Wed)12:49 No. 1095496 ID: 3f89df
File 172306018339.png - (2.78KB , 500x500 , grey face reveal but its pitch black so its more l.png )

I prefer eating in the dark anyway.

After I've eaten half of the food, the cavity containing the coin bag reveals itself. I reapply my bandages and quickly rush out the door, the coin bag delicately stashed in my armour.

To my delight, the Crocodile and the caravan are both easily in my field of vision when I arrive there. I quickly rush over to the caravan, looking around to see if the knights are hidden anywhere out of view, and then pull out the coin pouch from my armour when I confirm I am safe.

The Baron picks up the coin bag and pulls out a tool from his right pocket, like a tool with a based handle. It's not anything I've seen before, and it's making odd sounds, occasional squeaks of noise; finally, after he's finished, the tool makes three more high-pitched noises.

I can feel the Baron's sly smile, "Perfect, well these slaves are yours to keep, ankle bitter. He turns around to his knights. "Round up the remaining slaves and put them into the hold."

6/9 Grey 2024/08/07(Wed)12:49 No. 1095497 ID: 3f89df
File 172306018656.png - (14.32KB , 500x500 , grey angirgly thinking about the empire.png )

I watch as all of the remaining slaves, one by one, get put back inside the caravan and the sounds of shackles locking and violent resistance. I know you had suggested I give a gift to the concubine-to-be, but given their hostility they most likely wouldn't let me near her in the first place; even if they did, I don't think we need the favour of a concubine, this level into our settlements production, the only way I see us even meeting the Empire's King is if we get captured; in which case or fate is sealed.
Or if we are already winning a war against them, in which case, they would most likely already be near death.

Besides, I don't think diplomacy will work on a group that is as xenophobic as the Empire; by the way, Muni, I forgot to tell you about their name so as not to get you confused when referring to titles or someone else; their name is the "Fallen Empire." I only know this from reading about initial diplomacy meetings when the Empire either arrived, was created, or showed itself around fifty years ago, where they referred to themselves as, and some well... personal experiences with the Fallen Empire.

Knowing the names of some of their technology makes me wonder why they are even "Fallen" in the first place; they obtusely could subjugate everyone living on Uriher Quite easily, yet besides vassalage and occasional raids, I've not heard of any Wars that they have committed, of course, that may be due to our lack of knowledge due to kobolds isolationism, instead then them being peaceful throughout history.

The sounds of animals are nothing but an echo, with the Fallen's caravan falling over the horizon; I put my attention to the slaves; some convey tense expressions, and others whisper among each other, conveying a plan between them for escape, others look defeated as if they have no hope for them.

7/9 Grey 2024/08/07(Wed)12:49 No. 1095498 ID: 3f89df
File 172306018929.png - (82.21KB , 500x500 , wait a minute this is peacful talk please dontt it.png )

I move to a position where all the slaves can see me, attempting to contain a calm yet confident demeanour; however, just as I'm about to speak, I hear a familiar voice behind me. "Oh, don't think about running, unless you want it to make it funner for me."

Bardeibor is relatively close to me. His Axe and body are half-covered in the Blood of what must be deer or a small mammal. His face is twisted into a mischievous grin. Crocodile goes to the right side of me, eyeing the slaves with a glare and resting his hand on his sword.

It's clearly intimidating for most of the slaves, but some, such as Trick-Claw and, surprisingly, Muni and Kent, remain unfazed.

I look to Crocodile, who just looks at me and nods, allowing me to express what I've wished to tell them since I've seen them among the caravan.

"Hello. My name's Grey Auniza. I will tell you about your duties, contract, and restrictions moving forward."

I breathe, collecting my thoughts about how to say these words.

"We are a simple collective of people, just me, Bardeibor, and Crocodile. We have lost everything, our homes, our friends, and our community. It's something that most of you are dangerously familiar with, Either being betrayed, captured, or forced into slavery out of your control."

"Most are familiar with it —if not slavery, then serfdom, an ever-increasing debt that will never be paid, a promise that if you work from sun rise to sunset for bread crumbs to pay, your liege "may" protect you from outside forces—unless they are too weak to defend against a stronger foe."

"In the age of County, Duchy, Kingdom, and Empire, the ones who own the land get all of the credit for their success, triumphs, and failures; however, no one talks about the people, the common man, the ones who work themselves to bones so that the one on top can get all of the glory. Still, empires are not founded by one man. But by the people.
All those who remain at the top like to hoard their wealth for their own goals, pleasures, and desires; the pay you receive is not based on what you have produced; instead, it is stuffed into the pockets of the tax man and their superiors upward, up the chain, leaving you with nothing."

8/9 Grey 2024/08/07(Wed)12:49 No. 1095499 ID: 3f89df
File 172306019219.png - (17.70KB , 500x500 , woah grey hates the king who chould hace seem that.png )

GoldScale keeps flashing in my mind. His tax, our debt, our survival—all punished by the one who has prospered enough. He is a true Draconic through and through, a uniter yet a hoarder.

"I want us to be different, for if we survive enough to become kings and queens, we will not live through subjugation but through cooperation instead. Now, it is true that, yes, at this current moment, you are owned by us and that I do not promise complete freedom; however, I instead have a secondary proposition;"

"If what we've paid to free you are recovered, or you pay your value in labour, then you are free; you may leave and attempt to return to your previous life or start anew on the road; however, if you wish to join us after your debts are paid, you will be held in high regard as I've mentioned previously, and be paid your worth there won't be any class-based jobs that are ounce restricted if it's something you are passionate in then you can pursue it."

"While I know that what I'm proposing is serfdom, I promise complete transparency of what you are producing and that we won't increase your debts when time becomes rough for us,
Finally, I have one last thing to add because this may be, initially, an unpopular proposition between us: If you attempt to escape before your debts are paid and get captured by Bardeibor or Crocodile, then I don't have a say in what happens to you afterwards."

"That is the nature of your contract, not as a slave but as an equal."

9/9 Grey 2024/08/07(Wed)12:49 No. 1095500 ID: 3f89df
File 172306019515.png - (16.99KB , 500x500 , well that went over well.png )

The Former slaves look on in shock, some processing what they've just heard, others talking among each other, others standing on guard from Bardeibor.

Turning my head to look at Bardeibor, he returns with an expression of disappointment but not much more. However, I felt Crocodile forcefully put his hand on my shoulder in a way that made me lose almost all of the confidence I once had; turning to look at him, he returned a face that hid his genuine emotions, a one of pure normalcy, with the occasional flare of his genuine emotions coming through. His normal-seeming smile covers the pure, raw emotions that shook me.
"Grey, may we have an private chat indoors? The importantance of which can not be stressed, Bardeibor can look after the slaves."

As such, I'm left with an ultimatum: Muni, should I join Crocodile's Disscusion? Also, now that we have more people, Muni, what should our plan be going forward? We have enough that exploring, trading, and negotiating with our neighbours or around the area is less risky overall.

>>1095500
Yes to both.

Try to explain your and our thimking to him, even if you dont share our presence.

Youre laying the foundations of what you will be in more than stone grey mother.
If you do things the same as before then all that awaits is the same painful result.
And remind him you need many hands to do all this settlement needs and with have purchased loyalty from this group that outnumbers you by giving them the one thing they thought they had lost forever.
Hope.
More will choose to stay than you ecpect and those that leave will do so as allies.

As to goals.
Storehouse.
Planting.
Sleeping spots in storehouse until domeciles are made.
Pen for the muffalo.

Perhaps the gnoll could take up hunting.

See what Crocodile has to say. Have confidence, you offered them a lot but that's how you get a lot in return.

Focus on getting more shelter built and establishing self sufficient hunting and farming. It will be easier to deal with the neighbors if they don't view us as weak, either as a target or a nuisance.

>>1095493
Okay, maybe I'm wrong. Sorry. But he does look like Kal Kent I... if Kal Kent I snapped and went on an uncharacteristic murder spree.

>>1095497
They call themselves Fallen?
Then it's obvious to us what happened.
Some empires are so supermassive that they span entire worlds. They use trade routes that you do not comprehend, and perform more transactions per day than the number of living souls in your world. But if the empire collapses, then so do the supernatural trade routes. If the empire used some kind of hypergate network and suddenly nobody got paid or supplied to maintain the gates, that means these guys in your continent are stranded here forever, and unable to communicate with what remains of their empire as it falls into total anarchy. That explains why they're using brute tactics to carve out their own kingdom, instead of concentrating on long-term diplomacy to annex your world.

>>1095500
Uh oh...
Have us on standby, this conversation might get hot.

1/4 Grey 2024/09/05(Thu)19:04 No. 1097006 ID: 3f89df
File 172558827258.png - (24.29KB , 500x500 , uhoh angry crocodile and no hippo we all know how .png )

>>1095522
>See what Crocodile has to say. Have confidence, you offered them a lot but that's how you get a lot in return.

>>1095673
>Yes to both. Try to explain your and our thimking to him, even if you dont share our presence.

>>1095683
>Uh oh... Have us on standby, this conversation might get hot.

Okay, I'll do it. If I refused, I would just be stirring the pot further until it reaches a breaking point that I can't personally recover from, although there are other reasons I should be afraid.

Before I leave, I make sure to give my future citizens, goals to currently work on;

"I'm leaving to have an chat regarding future plans with Crocodile, however a priority that we should focus on, is building a storage house, and planting crops; you'll find some seeds inside the first room to the left, and most drastically, hunting, which we'll need for temporary sleeping slots inside storage; If you have the time, we have muffalo that need to be rounded up, and given an pen or a post temporarily. With that under-way, I'm off to leave."

crocodile passively pushes me with enough force that it's noticeable his neutral expression has turned sour. As I follow him to our temporary quarters, he occasionally glances back at me, as if he's afraid or expecting me to trail off. A deep well of anxiety wells in my stomach.

Eventually, we reach our sleeping quarters, an open window being the only light in this claustrophobic room.

Being from such a privileged upbringing, it's most likely that the switch from a comfortable and well-off bedside to sleeping on the floor and eating rations of beans, bread, and other preservatives must be getting to him. While he was a GoldScale general, he's told me on many occasions that he's not been on the battlefield or even trading as much as I've had with my four years of service, which has gotten me more accustomed to these conditions, may also be a result of his crabby mood.

2/4 Grey 2024/09/05(Thu)19:04 No. 1097007 ID: 3f89df
File 172558827645.png - (18.73KB , 500x500 , hey grey chould you do an freeze frame yeah that l.png )

I'm blindsided as his expression quickly turns to fury as he shouts:
"Are you stupid? No, do you wish to kill us?"
My body immediately tenses us up; I've never been good with conflict. It allows him to get another word in.
"I thought you buying all of those slaves was questionable, but promising them freedom!?"
I speak up
"Even so, where quickly outnumbured, and if we wish to rebuild quickly, we need the hands in order to do so, even still they'll be able to produce more then if they where-"
Crocodile clicks his tongue loudly, and I instinctively freeze up; he responds with: "But don't you see the problem, Grey? If they aren't Slaves, then we can't resell them to GoldScale if our dues aren't met, and with your current idea, who knows that they'll leave us by the time they've paid off our debts, where losing more than we gain."
I get a chip in. "But their people, Crocodile."
"But their not kobolds, in fact, you've bought humans, and had the gull to say that they can roam free when done with it, have you forgotten what they've done?"

3/4 Grey 2024/09/05(Thu)19:04 No. 1097008 ID: 3f89df
File 172558828032.png - (20.44KB , 500x500 , dude stop being an doormat while i hold physical a.png )

"Everyone deserves second chance-"
"Look what they've done to you; he says, putting his hand on my bandaged face; remember what they did to my father, what happened to Bardeibor, even at our recent trip to Viera's temple, you were sexually assaulted by them when I was in a meeting."
"It's fine Crocodile-"
"NO IT'S NOT, GREY. I'm sick of you dismissing yourself from what happens so as not to ruffle any feathers of the ones higher up the food chain."
He breathes and exhales. "If GoldScale doesn't get his money, we will lose everything, our land, our home, our pepole, nothing, he'll mark us as traitors, and we'll be run out where the insectoids will devour us, and yet you wish to throw away, our plans and for what?"
At first, my mind was blank, but then I remembered the message you told me, Muni, a way to explain my reasoning.
"Where laying the foundations for a new future, the way we've done before will just reveal itself to tragedy again and again; the way we've done is the same as GoldScale uses to oppress us; if we followed his way, we'd be repeating the cycle, however with what we lose in political bargaining, we make up for it with a special ingredient; Hope with that hope we've purchased their loyalty, and they'll produce more then if they where miserable, slaving away doing mindless tasks."
There's a great silence in the room while Crocodile turns his head to the ground. I hoped that I had finally made sense to him, yet in a moment, he looked up to me and tackled me, pinning me to the wall.

4/4 Grey 2024/09/05(Thu)19:04 No. 1097009 ID: 3f89df
File 172558828338.png - (24.57KB , 500x500 , crocodile dont you give me that look yes its very .png )

"So is this is what it's all about? you know. I've trusted you , put you in charge of running the logistics of Bloodeia, and allowed you to sleep in my bed, sleep with me. Even though our relationship is frowned upon due to your status, yet you turn around and say that you are creating a libertarian populist uprising? All it took was for me to give you a tiny bit of power, and you immediately disregarded my word, my land

I'm dumbfounded, I trusted Crocodile; enough so with this information, Even though he works as hard as a labourer and doesn't seem to care much about his status, I was naive to think that uprooting the system in which his power originates wouldn't bug him, and now I'm here, pinned to the wall; my worst nightmares of our relationship come true across the cloudy skies of today; Even though we are far away from the capital, he still owns the right to execute, imprison, or do whatever he wishes with me, due to our class differences; I'm shaking, even war was less scary than this, maybe it was because it wasn't committed from someone I looked up too and love, Muni my mind is blank, and I need to say, something; anything, what should I do? What should I say?

Like I said, you can do better than that idiot.
He has a solid argument... but it's powered by discrimination, mechanized with delusion, and built upon a foundation of privilege: the trifecta of most human tyrants.

This ties back to GoldScale, and Crocodile's servitude towards that dick. Even though you both hate that loan shark of a kobold tyrant, and for good reason, his foremost thoughts are of appeasing GoldScale rather than rebelling against him. Crocodile hasn't realized that by freeing our slaves, we have a new path to take should the colony be unsalvageable; just follow them. If we earn their trust then some will show us their ways and the methods they would attempt to use to escape slavery. Crocodile is so afraid of GoldScale's authority that he projects those fears onto the paranoia of you usurping his own.

Well, guess what, ya motherkiller: We're the Viceroys here. If Crocodile is dead-set in his authority-worshipping ways, then you need to find a way to force him to recognize us.

But for now, start with this:
"You are the one who lifted me up. And you did it because you were high - and alone.
If we are to survive, we can not do it alone. If we make all the colonists our slaves, Goldscale will grant them freedom - in exchange for their lies. They would claim our colony never existed, that we used them to mine some fictional gold vein in territory that allegedly belongs to GoldScale or other such atrocities, especially any we actually inflict on slaves, and then we would still lose everything."

...Also I am very sad to hear that you were sexually assaulted how soon can we arrest the prick who did that?

What is he talking about? What uprising? They are still slaves for the time being, Crocodile is still just as much in charge. And if or when they earn their freedom they would either leave or continue to work under you.

You were just trying to give the workers the motivation they will need in these trying times. If Crocodile didn't want you to make decisions he should have been clear he wanted a mindless servant. Though that would change your relationship to a much colder one. No one can love a user.

>>1097009
You were looking to the future, grey mother.

Repeat the same system, recieve the same result.
Goldscale will never relinquish ownership of a profitable tribute giver.
Should we reach our tributes with spare resources, he will not kindly congratulate us with a warm smile.
He will squeeze harder.
You are not seen as people, nor subjects.
You are to be farmed.
We all know what happens to the muffalo that no longer gives wool or milk...

You seek to break that cycle.
Not just for them outside, but for you all too.
They may not be readily visible but you two are bound in chains.
To continue as you are, as goldscale expects you to, is to wait patiently at the butchers block.

As to the humans, i dont trust them completely either grey mother, but these here i dont think you can view as just any human.
They are outsiders.
Cast away by their own and removed from the positions that make other humans so untrustworthy.
You may see a difference in them robbed as they are of the authority of the throngnofbhumanity at their back...

1/9 Grey 2024/11/12(Tue)17:59 No. 1099691 ID: 3f89df
File 173146319714.png - (50.53KB , 250x250 , You make an good point grey but its rather risky j.png )

>>1097016
>>1097021
>>1097032 

Muni, you make good points, and I agree with one thing: Crocodile is projecting his fear onto me. Even with bad winters or terrible negotiations, he seemed to have a cool head and attempt to salvage a situation for what it was. I may not know what it is like to go through the politics of monarchy and nobility, but with all of the stress of our neighbours, losing the land that we used to know and love and the people inside while living on a barely functional tent, it has been stressful, a bit less on me since I am used to sudden change throughout my life, and losing those close to me. Still, Crocodile hasn't survived something like that.

I've gone through your considerations and have a way to respond to them.

"Crocodile, I'm not usurping you, and I don't dream of starting an uprising; you should know by now; that I have been the most devout follower of you ever since Gold Scales colonization party sent off with me just designated as the simple doctor of your barony."
Crocodile's body language relaxes a little, his shoulders relaxing, and his expression changing.
"I was suprised that during the trip, an one filled with noble's of various houses, kobolds engineers who had rapidly technologized the capital, and soldiers of various ranks, you decided to talk to me. An nobody really, and we talked, we talked as if there where no borders between us, and ounce we arrived, you offered me the postision of your court physcician, and soon after your advisor."
"We've been through both the bad and the good together, and we've laid; you've seen me for who I was, who I was under my bandages and scars, and unlike others who gag, throw up, or become hostile towards me, you just hugged me and accepted me. Because of both of us, we made an excellent barony that made blood mother proud."
"But if you don't wish for me to make decisions since I don't have the right to, I understand; I'll follow your orders, but I must ask you this. Is this something you want? Or is this something that GoldScale wants?"

Crocodile pauses and looks at me. The anger and fury he had displayed before have vanished, and his expression is that of realization. His arms, which had pinned me to the wall, have relaxed and now slump meaningless beside him.
"No, It's something that GoldScale would want; it's something that all of the vulturious nobles, our kobold neighbours, would want."

2/9 Grey 2024/11/12(Tue)17:59 No. 1099692 ID: 3f89df
File 173146319934.png - (35.01KB , 250x250 , who owns an baron but an duke who owns an duke yet.png )

He breathes a bit before resuming.
"Grey, you may have realized the severity of our situation, and like always, are attempting to plan for the future, but if it all fails do you know what will happen to us?"
"It's not just that I'd lose my power and my position; we'd be labelled as traitors to the Regime and would be forced to run from any kobold lands, and we'd have nowhere to go if we went west, we'd get torn apart by the Eusa's the second we step foot in front of the mountainside, if we went west; The human kingdoms'd exploit us, and they'd hurt us more, we'd not have a say as a slave, and if we went south; We'd be walking towards our death, and if we get captured, we'll be mocked, our familes turning agint us, before the swift swing of the blade."
"It has been a lot for us these last couple of days, and risking it all with such an extreme declaration is risky; if we pay them what they are worth, then how will we have money to pay GoldScale? All I ask Grey, is what you'd do then?"

I have to take a moment to think about it, and Crocodile obliges; I keep repeating what you've said, Muni, About our future and GoldScale.
"If we are to survive, we can not do this alone; if they were enslaved, GoldScale would promise them freedom; in return to lies and Blasphemy, Including pain or threats made upon them: We would be captured, and our fate would be up to him. The slaves would be captured and forced to work in the coal mines until their death.
Therefore, If we repeat the system, the system of serfdom, slavery, and debt that GoldScale had inflicted upon us, We'll eventually end up like him, deposed, rotting among the corpses of a populist rebellion. In the now, If we pay back GoldScale, He won't relinquish us; he'll milk us dry, farm ourselves till we turn to sand until we aren't of use where he'll throw us out.
We must break this cycle, Crocodile; Otherwise, we won't last. Otherwise, Goldscale will chop off our heads."

4/9 Grey 2024/11/12(Tue)18:00 No. 1099694 ID: 3f89df
File 173146321087.png - (28.19KB , 250x250 , owo whos watching are you looking at the files for.png )

Crocodile had been listening intently, not expressing much but focusing on my words, nodding occasionally. Finally, when I'm finished, he looks up at the sky and contemplates. Finally, after a couple of minutes, he looks down at me and says: "You do make some good points, and I'll try out this plan; You've always been well with words, however, if your plan backfires, We'll use them as bait against GoldScale; to buy us time before we leave for exile; We are much more important then them, do you understand grey?"
"I also wish to hear your plan on how we break the cycle and how we'll do it against hundreds upon hundreds of kobolds by gold scales disposal. However, I'll allow us to keep the slaves as free pepole, by your contract If they do try to escape before their debts are paid, I won't show them any mercy, do you understand?"
I'm conflicted about his tone and ideals, but it is a step in the right direction.

5/9 Grey 2024/11/12(Tue)18:00 No. 1099695 ID: 3f89df
File 173146321384.png - (38.20KB , 250x250 , wow one thousand words and not even an thanks for .png )

"I understand crocodile; thank you for listening."
"Thank you grey, now if you'd excuse me; I'm going to keep planting the makeshift farm we'd started; and keep our citizens in check."
And then Crocodile leaves; it's a lot colder than I'm used to, but I think that despite everything that's happened to his behaviour, at least he accepts our plan.

The thing now is looking toward the bigger picture. GoldScale will not take our stance lying down, and he exceptionally won't like hearing what happened to the previous colony. The tribute debt has inadvertently turned into a timer for a plan lest he take our lives.

6/9 Grey 2024/11/12(Tue)18:00 No. 1099696 ID: 3f89df
File 173146321946.png - (42.28KB , 250x250 , humans deffintley deserve an species sheet thier s.png )

>As to the humans, I don't trust them entirely either, Grey Mother, but these here I don't think you can view as just any human. They are outsiders. Cast on their own and removed from the positions that make other? humans so untrustworthy. You may see a difference in them robbed as they are of the authority of the throne of humanity at their back...

Humans are adaptable. However, they are also heavily driven by their desires and ideals. It's nearly impossible to make them change their ways; outcasts of said humans lack some of the ideals due to their fellow man's rejection and prioritize the self over others. However, they have more vices and much more extreme desires. Unlike Crocodile, I'm neutral on the two we have recruited; I believe that the sins of a person do not equate to the sins of a race or culture; thinking otherwise is how you end up with ethnic radicals, which no one except those perpetrating the violence finds suitable.

7/9 Grey 2024/11/12(Tue)18:00 No. 1099697 ID: 3f89df
File 173146322349.png - (48.71KB , 250x250 , there is no joke in the files i only drew this so .png )

>...Also, I am very sad to hear that you were sexually assaulted. How soon can we arrest the prick who did that?

Oh, that. Well, it was the High King of Veira's Temple Spy Master Or someone else high on the nobility's list. Veria's Temple itself is reasonably close; it is a human-based kingdom and is about half the power of GoldScale's Empire. So the chance we could arrest him is improbable at best, and we would only be able to do so within good reason.
Thankfully, it was only Groping this time and power rather than Lust that drove it; the only thing I'm thankful for is that he didn't remove my bandages cause then I would have been a spectacle as well as a victim and would have made everything worse.
I don't wish to discuss it more in-depth, Muni. I remember faces, so there's no need to remind me. It was rude of Crocodile to bring that up in our conversation instead of allowing me to explain during my own time, that is all.

8/9 Grey 2024/11/12(Tue)18:00 No. 1099698 ID: 3f89df
File 173146322871.png - (49.93KB , 250x250 , oh that looks normal- what the fuck is that.png )

Moving on, we should focus on planning for the future. While I could work on building houses, pens, or planting, I have some curiosities in my mind. The biggest of which are You, Muni, and your mother.
I've always been fascinated with our kobold technology and those of other kingdoms, yet you and Pychaninuam are almost Mystical.

I have thought of a potential hypothesis: if I get some Pyschaninuam and then rebuild the exterior of your mother, I can channel the energy from the ore into your mother, hopefully reviving her. It's not my magical specialty, as I mainly focus on bodily magic. However, I have a couple of spells and experience with those that use the mind, so maybe it'll work.

9/9 Grey 2024/11/12(Tue)18:00 No. 1099699 ID: 3f89df
File 173146323183.png - (36.71KB , 250x250 , even in your thought of the place an lesser insect.png )

The question of where we'd find some more, I'm entirely unsure; Ore Findings are usually kept under wraps so that they can be sold privately to the highest bidder unless the surrounding terrain changes with our previous settlement disappearing; unexplored cave systems are north from our base camp. We initially didn't explore it since there was an Insectoid infestation in the caves, and we lost Kiwi and Lynx in the process. Who knows what's down there?

However you decide what we should focus on, Muni is up to you. So far, you have made the most ethical and thoughtful choices, so I have no reason not to trust you. So, what will it be?

>We initially didn't explore it since there was an Insectoid infestation in the caves, and we lost Kiwi and Lynx in the process.
yikes, well if we don't know that there is anything good in the caves don't throw any more bodies at it.

>I can channel the energy from the ore into your mother, hopefully reviving her.
If you can do so, but your survival is the priority. please don't worry on our account.

Now that we have manpower, lets get that farm past the makeshift stage.

>>1099691
Oh sweet fudge and by all the gods who haven't abandoned us! What did we miss?!
I'm glad he stopped, whatever he just did disconnected us from you for months! Or, at least it seemed that way. When we get disconnected from someone we're contracted to, we sort of... tune out?
I'll be honest, Grey: not all our adventures with hosts ended happily ever after. Everything from mortals to gods to even heroes chosen by the Constellations or the Void; many of them met their ends in failure or regret. The thing is, we have a limited connection to Destiny; as long as we're connected you're probably going to have a positive amount of net good luck, but... if we get disconnected forever, none of us will ever find out how your story ends, and I don't think most of those unfinished stories ended with 'sunshine and rainbows'.

>>1099698
I... I want to try. But only at the end. Right now, your victory is our priority. If you lose, we'll never have a chance.

>>1099699
Let's start out with some basic farming tips that I can explain to you right now.
First up: farmable land. Most forms of dirt can be used as farmland, but the catch is that the nutrients in the dirt - inedible to most animals that straight-up try to eat dirt due to the indigestibles, bacteria, and parasites that make up most of it, but generally edible by plants. Once those nutrients dry up, it's equivalent to trying to force a baby to grow without giving them any food, and forcing them to dig for it. If needs must, you can sacrifice excess or rotting food back to the soil with a process called 'composting' - put all your food waste and only your food waste in a bin, let it rot for a few days, then go nuts spreading it. We recommend you wash your hands and face at least three times afterwards. But your primary friends in restoring a land's vitality are earthworms and poo. Remember how I said most animals can't eat dirt? The common earthworm can. For all the ugly stories about finding a worm in a piece of fruit, these little troopers make it possible to grow those fruits in the first place. And poo also has these nutrients, when a species cannot digest a meal fully.
Lastly, it's a pity you didn't hire that hive drone, because beings like her are responsible for the final phase of growing most fruits: pollination. You take one flower, and you stuff it in the other flower's face to make it... well, it's reproduction for plants. But insectoids do it with more precision and dedication, and are responsible for over 80% of pollination efforts everywhere, so I think we can agree that is pretty effective!
Oh and if I remember correctly humans have this addiction to bee spit. Everyone says it's the sugar. Good luck!

>>1099698
Grey mother,
while the mysteries of our origin and magic you can learn could well found the fulcrum upon which you move this world into a better one for you all,
it will not fill your bellies nor shield you from coming cold.

It must be kept in mind, true, as it could be the one weapon you wield that the other groups cannot, the priorities and advice on farming must be foremost.
Then shelter.

Perhaps a place to share, store and work on plans.
A researcher spot, if you will.

Oh!
Someone was observing your conversation with crocodile from above.
Four fingers one thumb on each hand
Tan or light orange colouration.
Good climber, curious spirit, yet limited appreciation of privacy.
Not all bad traits, grey mother.
Perhaps worth encouraging towards the benefit of all rather than admonishing outright.