Restore them.

Someone in the discussion said that we should try to convince Oz to take Uggrock as a pupil and I think that's awsome

Restore them. At the rate we're using them, they'll rot up before they see much use!

>>233744
The issue here is yet another language barrier.

I guess it's time to make some support deepspawn. one for healing and one for buffing I think would be good.
Contact Keddic and ask after Bagrom for Oz, I'm sure he Oz would appreciate it.

>[deepspawnname] embodies Healing in the form of Aura and Crystal
>[deepspawnname] embodies Strengthening in the form of Balls and Fists, also ball of fists man :D

>>233748
>[deepspawnname] embodies Healing in the form of Care and Attachment

Hoping for a Spawn that makes little lampreys that grant regen to those they attach to.

Where is the master list of Spawn Names?

Damn it, Vimes left! Damn damn damnity damn!

Oh well. Hopefully we can get them again.

And I'd argue agasint healing, for now. They could heal on there own and could possibly become stronger for it. However, if they look like they will die, power them up.

So, Mordre, what happened to KORGOTYO THE CHAINED and Immortal Angormandius The Undying?

And did anything intresting happen at the Tyotworro estates?

And question: If we impower with Deep Spawn Eggs, will our Monster Party members gain -new- abilities, or just be strengthed?

Getting list:

Restore them.

Now we have to make a spawn that can directly mess with the dragon after us.

Quiz Vandguard and Zelgato and then craft as spawn based on their response and Sandronim's recommendations.

Via Phohn:
Ask Keddic if the new guy has anything that Phohn can use to find him, then have a caht with the fellow.... if possible.

Yeah don't restore them with our precious cores! Use option 3 - Create a NEW Deepspawn for this sort of situation! This IS going to happen again so it's best to have a permanent repair and healing solution at hand. Besides it probably looks cool so Oz can watch you do it. See what he can tell from the process as he's obviously used to soul manipulation.

Akeakam embodies the concept of RESTORATION, and his form revolves around OIL and NEEDLES.

Get Phohn to ask Magnum Bang for a mission report. I'd like to know how he's doing or if he wants any tactical advice.

You might want to discuss Oz's opinion of Dragons a bit more. Does he just not like bossy types or what? Ask Oz if he's willing to join forces (both mentally and physically) against Jioga if he turns up. Like play some jokes on him and stuff, then fight him together with Dulu and the Deepspawn if he actually blows his top.

Actually it might be handy to speak with Jioga a bit before you meet. Maybe he's willing to join forces and collaborate with the plan to bring Oz into the fold? Propose the possibility that if you end up fighting outright then you might just lose the objective and both of you will lose face in front of Lubu!

Make one or more metal objects and have Phohn and Burduko make a connection with the objects. Then leave them behind you on your trail with written instructions on them or next to them saying that it's a magical device that lets people speak to you. If Jioga picks one up then you can have a chat. If he also brings one with him then Burduko might be able to tell where in the world it is relative to your location... :)

List has been posted in the Discussion Thread.

As for talking to Oz, just ask him what he thinks of Dragons, and what he thinks of Lubu.

Two other memebers of our Monster Party that could help:

Murhyihal embodies the concept of MAINTENANCE/REPAIR, its form revolves around REPAIR TOOLS and RESOURCEFULNESS

Jidkof embodies the concept of VITALITY. Its form revolves around FLESH and BLOOD.

There are a few other's that are a stretch, but those seem to be the best easy match, other then the two suggested here - But not BOAM, because that's not really a buff.

I'd say use Queeyurtoh and Erostika's cores to restore them, as well as making a new Deep Spawn, Murhyihal, Concept of RESTORATION, form of TOOLS (For repairing mechanobits) and CRYSTALS (For healing fleshbits)

Guys, the Ash Dragon is incoming. We do not have time to sink hours and large chunks of our soul into making numerous Deep Spawn. One at most, and that only after we've done something to deal with the incoming rival. A rather brutal incoming rival, at that, seeing as he did something this nasty to our Deep Spawn when they were under orders not to start anything violent; the evidence would thus suggest that he'll try something violent upon arrival, as well.

I presume that we have already spoken to Oz about the fact that the Ash Dragon will soon arrive, and of his presumed intentions as a rival but similarly-intentioned recruiter. The problem here is, as someone who favors quick and dirty solutions and likes fighting Oz is likely to be more than willing to go with a proposal like "Hey, I'll fight you for it" on the part of the Ash Dragon. Either as a challenge to us, or to him; it plays to Oz' likes and also the to Land of Dragons' general culture. Regardless, I don't think that we want this to come down to a matter of personal prowess.

So what've we got to avoid that? We could attempt to secure an agreement with Oz now and trust him to keep to it in the face of the Ash Dragon, or we could come up with some other plan. And I haven't got another plan.

The only new logic I've got to persuade Oz is that he's the master of his own fate; if he says that he'll work for Lubu for a bit and after two weeks finds it anything less than enjoyable, he can just turn and leave. All we're really asking is for him to give it a shot; if Lubu turns out to embody those characteristics he despises in Dragons, he can just go. And if he makes it clear after a while that he's planning to leave, considering that we know Lubu is interested in having him stay Oz might well be able to pressure the Fierce Dragon gradually into making concessions to keep him around.

Right, right, forget makin' Deepspawn, forgot about the time investment. Ask if the restoration would take much time, if not, do it, otherwise, keep moving. I suggest you start gathering up lots of metal as you move, for Magenetomatic anchors and also SURPRISE BITCH LANCES FROM THE GROUND in case you need to fight.

>>233778
No, no, it's 'Suprise, Fuckers'. But we kinda have to be a Arabic Null for that to work. Anyway.

I do think it would be a good idea to make one healer. If I remember right, we're on a moving platform, aren't we? We can keep it moving while we make our healer. If we're -not- on the platform, we get back to the platform.

>>233782
We're not moving anymore. We're staying with Bagrom's people, and waiting here for his return. Moving further is not really an option at the moment, and it's not necessarily desirable anyway; it's already served its purpose in buying us time to meet and befriend Oz without the Ash Dragon's interference.

Bob!t/UKid4z5s 2010/09/25(Sat)13:00 No. 233787 ID: a76809
File 128544483359.jpg - (506.24KB , 800x1067 , Land Of Dragons Hieryou of the Iron Mustache.jpg )

>>233750
[Putting a new core in could graft new abilities, forcibly evolve and improve existing Deep Spawn. otherwise, they all start at a given baseline based on your own soul.]

Angormandius left heading towards Gainer, and I imagine he likely has reached it. As for Korgotyo the Chained, he is currently the guest of a local school of martial arts, the Chaining Calamity school, who seem to be wholly separate of the Tyotworro clan ...Perhaps guest is not the right term: They have open air arenas and gardens in their premise that easily accommodate the gargantuan Rageglut, and I have seen their deferential yet familiar attitude with him. It would seem fairly likely he is a member, and a considerably talented one at that. He has been largely courteous in his interactions with the locals, quite a few of whom seem to know him, including several elderly individuals that speak with far more familiarity than the rest. Korgotyo has nevertheless not spoken with me, or in fact anyone at the Tyotworro clan estate, including Oz. I have noted that Oz would likely be quite pleased if able to have a chat with the titanic warrior, and the degree of notoriety the Rageglut holds intrigues me. Perhaps I could pursue this vein, some time or other.

The Tyotworro estates themselves have a few branch family members who still act somewhat deferential, as apparently Bagrom is from the main family line, which extends over us as his invited guests. There is Edgo Su-Tyotworro (The Su denoting branch family), a man past his prime and tending slightly towards sloth, a receding hairline doing nothing to hide the bull neck and strong jaw beneath, clearly having taken part in martial pursuits in the past. He has a wife, however as a branch family member his status could not confer via marriage, and so his wife and daughters are housed outside of the estate, where he frequently departs to visit them. His sons could not be more different. The youngest, Dano Su-Tyotworro, is studious, obsessed with finance and details, a critical aid to to his father the effective head of the estates. Between the two of them, they largely run and manage the impressive grounds. Then their is Heiryou of the Iron Mustache, the eldest sun. He is assertive, aggressive and exceptionally direct, a contrast to the tactically subdued Edgo and Dano. He left on a great many travels about the land, and now is the commander of the local army of Waltora, and champion of the local judicial system, a position involving defending the courts side when cases go to trial by combat. He is noted to have not lost a single case. Hieryou also has an enormous wolf, so heavily built it seems some primal throwback to a bygone era, a quiet, attentive companion that obeys his master's commands without question. Thus far, Oz has also sought a match with Heiryou, who politely declined due to work. I wonder if I could convince the scion of the branch Tyotworro's to at least hold a light spar, as I imagine this as well would please Oz, and make him more inclined to follow me to Lubu.

>>233760
>>233763
>>233764
I invite Oz to take a break from his sparring with the other Deep Spawn (Nihilino has told me via Phohn that his erasing abilities cannot effect Oz at all, and Mothbern has had similar complaints) and their manifested spawn, while I heal the two he enjoyed fighting the most. Intrigued, considering both are little more than paste on the ground, feebly struggling to regenerate, he comes to watch, as does Hieryou, drawing with him his younger brother Dano whom he had been speaking with. I put forth my hand as I pluck free two of the forty one cores revolving about my form, and bend my Will towards crafting them. As I do so, I idly speak with Oz.

"So, what exactly is your opinion on Dragons in general, Oz? I don't think you ever told me more than that you don't wish to serve."
"...Huh, that's right. Well, I respect them as warriors, one and all they can do some amazing things, and no matter how they are now, they had to sweat, bleed and dance with death to get like that, and I can respect that. The thing is thought, that the way they act like they're the best fighters around, like no one else is their equal, that just pisses me off. I have yet to meet a Dragon that wasn't ultimately so pompous that those who served around them were simpering fools, spineless sycophants, crippling their effectiveness as individual soldiers, all to suit some stupid whims. So yeah, I have a problem with Dragons."

>Murhyihal, Concept of RESTORATION, form of TOOLS (For repairing metals) and CRYSTALS (For healing fleshbits)

Murhyihal

The ever giving, of restoration, of recovery. I imagine a being to grow as a mass of crystal and metal, able to give up its own body to replenish others, spines on his metallic portions allowing incredible manipulation, an aid to construction as well. The crystals dotting his form, so similar to the type I forge when I invert Soulfire, hold within them the potential to revert, to unharm, restoring injuries by sacrificing their existence. With spawn that look like nothing more than giant leeches, able to grant passive regeneration to their host, Murhyihal is hardly offensive compared to many of the others... but I imagine I shall find him as useful as I have found Phohn and am now finding Burduko. Oz looks mightily impressed as the first roe simply begins to swell and harden, shards of transparent crystal abounding as a vaguely humanoid shape unwinds itself into a prostrate stance, as a voice like a saw on metal hails me reverentially.

"Murhyihal Serves."

As Oz claps, clearly impressed, Hieryou says nothing, all while Dano wears his astonishment on his sleeve. I continue my dialogue as I set Murhyihal to tending Vandgurd and Zelgoto, collecting my thoughts as my only just recently fully restored soul takes the hit without complaint.

"So, it is a question of attitude?"
"Not.... entirely. If they were actually such godly fighters like they acted, then yes, fine. But really, in all fairness there's a few Dragons I might be able to take, a few others who would have a hell of a time beating me, accounting for every one I have met. You don't get to act that high and mighty without commensurately absurd ability to go with it. Don't talk unless you can back it, that's the way you do it."

>Akeakam embodies the concept of STRENGTHENING, and his form revolves around OIL and NEEDLES.

Akeakam

Power, improvement, acceleration, enrichment. A being not to fight, but to make others fight more ably. Needles and fluids of nebulous power fill my mind, my soul diminishes as Will pours into the seed. It explodes into a bed of spikes, sprouting outward as an oil so dark it eats the light around it flows all about, a towering mass of shifting needles festooning a transparent membrane holding thousands of gallons of that perilously shadowed fluid, radiating a power I can scarce fathom. I see spawn so similar to Murhyihal's, now simple sacks and a single needle, a brilliant red elixir the cargo they carry. Another Support based Deep Spawn, as I swift find myself favoring them. This time Oz roars his laughter as the blob of oil and needles moves to Murhyihal's side, and begins to likewise aid in its work.

"Well Deep-damn, I've never seen anything like that, just making beings just like that. One fancy trick you got there, never-mind that I have no idea how you do it."
>[Hierou]"It appears the prayer-bead like orbs revolving about him are proto-souls of some form, and that by binding a piece of soul to them, he forces them to sprout, bound to his will."
"No shit? That is one sharp as sin Eye you got there, reading workings that deeply. Hah, to send a piece of your soul over distance and out of a fake body like that, one impressive trick, no doubt. That, or you're completely off, and its something else, HAH!"
>"...I would not have spoke were I not certain. Now pray excuse me, a serial killer is having a verdict rendered tonight, and will likely demand trial by combat."

With a glance to me, and a whistle for his wolf, Hieryou of the Iron Mustache, as ever barbed in his stylized armor, bows and leaves. Dano returns to his work on the estate accounts, while Oz spends a bit longer watching Vandgurd and Zelgoto be treated, before he rejoins the other Deep Spawn in his one-sided beat-down, looking happy as a child while his strikes topple giants that keep getting back up. As the night wears on, my two defenders finally arise, and return to the brawl without my need to ask after giving their report. They note that while Jioga was polite when he first arrived, upon learning that the pagoda was a ruse he struck out in anger, leaving them wounded so, with a simple metal sword, carrying the oppressive weight of his soul. They both note that while he entered the Fruit Orchard, Jioga and his retinue, some three hundred in number and all officers, was not following any trail, so I likely do not have as much cause for concern as I could. I watch the two restored Deep Spawn, clearly enjoying their fights against a human they simply cannot seem to harm, who extends the courtesy of not threatening their souls. Despite their support status, Phohn, Burduko, Murhyihal and Akeakam all likewise fight, their regeneration and innate strength making them excellent at keeping the pressure up on their laughing foe.


[DAY 140: DAY 10 OF WEEK 2 OF MONTH 4:]
[Randiday of the Second Cycle of Praeclarum (Summer)]

With even Dulu now having given in and finally joining the fray against Oz, likewise being beaten down like a child by burlier foe even as magic slowly grants him limbs and height alike, I have been occupied feigning some weariness, soon to cease moving and pretend to sleep, when a servant comes to speak with me, giving me reason to resurge in apparent alertness.

"Honored Golem User Mordre, Master Bagrom Tyotworro and a guest have arrived, and would like to meet you and guest Master Oz in the main hall presently."

As the servant departs without waiting to hears my response, I call out to Oz, apprising him of the situation, as he springs free of the fight while several Deep Spawn simply take a knee, letting their bodies finish regenerating as Dulu likewise watches our departure. As we take up residence in the roomy main hall, Bagrom and a young man puffing on Keddic's pipe who I presume is Senth stand before us. Both take part in giving us a recounting of the tournament, Oz seeming to be pleased with Bagrom's performance, having bested a past champion and three veterans before finally having to withdraw, but it is the recounting by Senth, that of the final match, that interests me most. Oz likewise is enthralled by that tail, and as we are fully brought up to date, Oz slaps his knee with a sound like thunder.

"Well GOOD FOR HIM! Got to have a personal moment it sounds like, and running into your master right after? Ah, serendipitous stuff, that. And that Jeeba fellow, I met him a few times... actually killed him twice, now that I think about it. First time didn't know he had three hearts and a backup mind, so technically didn't really kill him... but I pasted him the second time around, and still I run into him later. Guy has multiple copies of his body, or some crazy thing like that. Decent fighter, no mistake, but more than a bit loopy, and a violent arse. But taking a RageSphere... whooo, that takes balls. Even your soul gets warped by that. Makes your fellow... Keddic, that's it, makes Keddic's victory all the more impressive. AND SENTH!"

Without warning or hesitation Oz's right hand exudes a ghostly hand as large as a wall that rushes towards the wiry redhead at the speed of thought-and meets nothing, Senth having slipped away by some use of Tractomancy. ...A valuable skill, that. Yet instead of continuing, Oz laughs, walking forward and offering his hand to Senth.

"Well squirt, haven't seen you for a few years. Still a no-good waste of space, bothering your betters?"
>[Senth]"Haha, you know it!"
"And I note you use that Keddic's pipe..."
>"Yup, having a bit of fun with him."
"Ah-hah..."

With Bagrom moving to leave, likely seeking a wash and sleep, Senth and Oz chat, catching up since their last encounter (apparently two years ago, with Oz mocking Senth's new patch of chin-hair mercilessly), I look out of the main entrance, towards the vibrant night life of Waltora, a city large enough to hold scores of thousands I see Korgotyo's massive form illuminated by enormous bonfires as he leads nocturnal instruction for the Chaining Calamity school, his enormous chains dancing to his whims as they flick over building tops. I also note the four story courthouse is fully lit, and packed with throngs of people, likely interested in the sentencing of that serial killer. I see Hieryou vanishing into the courthouse. Dulu has engaged the Deep Spawn, asking that they spar with him as well, and they now continue their violence, the support Deep Spawn no longer taking part as pairs of warriors face Dulu. I briefly consider my soul, only slightly strained from the crafting of so few Deep Spawn.



What should I say or do?
Should I bring up Jioga's impending approach, and discuss potentially relocating?
Or should I try to speak directly with Bagrom, Dulu or Oz and Senth about anything?
Or perhaps should I venture out into Waltora proper, and seek to meet with Korgotyo or Hieryou?
Or should I simply stay and feign sleep?

Well, I would think, now that we having a restoration type Deep Spawn, that we get Murhyihal on repairing Edge of Oblivion.

>>233791
this has my full support

Also, determine some of the limits of our new Deep Spawn, if there are any (e.g. Murhyihal's spawn cannot grant regeneration to non-living organism {like Mordre when he is not using Blood Magic, or even when he is using Blood Magic}, Murhyihal's soft/hard cap on how fast he can repair things with and without the help of his spawn/Akeakam/Mordre's Blood Magic Magnetomancy/the patient's innate regeneration/other healer's attempts/any combination of the above, how far does Akeakam's/his spawn's strengthening effect goes in duration and strength of effect, if Akeakam and his spawn's effects stack, if the strengthening effect can affect non-living organisms, exactly which attributes the effect affect, if it can be used on themselves, etc.)

And, um, I am not suggesting restrictions, just so we are clear. Just desiring to know what Akeakam and Murhyihal can and cannot do, in their current state.

If Murhyihal's spawn can increase the rate of regeneration of our Deep Spawn, perhaps attach some of his spawn onto the sparring Deep Spawn (and their opponents, if they wish)? And, if Akeakam can increase magical strength, if only for a time, and we go for repairing the Edge of Oblivion, perhaps he can strengthen Mordre and Murhyihal so we can shave off more estimated time until complete repair, hopefully hours or even days, though minutes or seconds is good (especially since we know that our Spawns' abilities increase in strength as they age and earn experience, eventually Akeakam could just empower Murhyihal in the heat of battle, and Murhyihal finishes repairing the Edge of Oblivion in seconds, though that is a long way off).

Also, Murhyihal is really fucking hard to remember and to spell. Who came up with it?

>>233801
> Also, Murhyihal is really fucking hard to remember and to spell.
Let's call him Mury/Murhy then, for short.

You might want to have a talk with Senth, see what he expects and make sure he's reasonably well updated on the current mission and all that. Does he use his tractomancy for anything useful apart from saving his own hide?

If Bagrom is still hurt from the tournament then Murhyihal might be able to fix up the remaining ills.

Since you've got a combat lawyer about there might be some way to keep Jioga from entering the estates through legal means somehow... Check out Hieryou's skills and abilities if possible. They may be tied to rules and laws somehow, giving him a possible edge against even a dragon. Also is it possible to create another teleportation box from AGC shells? If so then we could just use that to get away if Oz agrees to it.

What? No pictures for our new Depp Spawns? Awww.... I like to have visual representation....

I am starting to miss Arkus and Arcaneworks in general, lets have a status update again through Phohn... And while we are at it, lets do the same for Mordreden, lets see how the integration is going...

Concerning Senth and the pipe. I would like to know if he would be able to evade our anti-magic field.

Also, Bob, are our Deep Spawn gaining experience by sparring with Oz? I also hope that gaining experience does not necesarely mean fighting and killing stuff as our support Spawns would have little chance to better them self. I hope that the more we use our spawn for their core abilities the more experienced they become overall (like using Phohn for communication, Sadronm for commanding, etc.)
Oh, speaking of Sadronm, is he helping during the sparrings? He should direct and give orders to other Spawns, this will increase his experience too.

...question: Burduko can teleport to the Lenryt Boxes. We have a box back at Lubu's camp, don't we? Because if we do this is an escape plan we need to use - I don't mind coming back, enjoying the sights and sounds, but if a Dragon attacks, I'd rather cut and run then risk losing our deep spawn and allies.

Oh, question for Vandgurd and Zelgoto: Did he trash our Pagoda? Because I'd kind of like that back.

But as for what to do, checking up on Dulu would be a good idea, and then see how Bagrom is. We should also find out who this 'Senth' person is, seeing as we apparently hired him.

We should make mention about the Dragon following us and what happened and ask for input. A suggestion I would like to make to Oz, in a smooth segue to this is that Oz might just be at Dragon level himself.

After that, let's just walk the town, see what there is to see. Maybe tell Hieryou his relative has returned.

And idea: I have a lurking feeling that either Keddic's Master is Angormandius or Angormandius is hunting down Keddic, being a student of the Lined One.

>>233801
This.
Actually, this applies to most of our Deep Spawn. While most concepts are straightforward, some are less so. There are several meanings for "Communication", for example.

>>233801
I don't think we have some time for all that testing currently, we probably should wait until we get back home to test it.

Also Bob came up with the name, honk.

WALKING STIM PACK!!

>>233791
Mury with the support of Velada and Budurko(to help with the bindings)

>>233860
Ooh, I forgot about that. Yeah, Velada (I feel that we aren't using them as we much as we should...) and Burduko conjoined is a very good idea. Though I hope EoO still has its locks when they are done...

I vote to go meet Hieryou. If things go as he predicted, he'll have to fight this serial killer in one-on-one combat, and we can use this opportunity to appraise his use and skillset if necessary.

Then again I'm an idiot for new, well-fluffed characters, so disregard if a more efficient plan exists.

Bob!t/UKid4z5s 2010/09/25(Sat)17:55 No. 233871 ID: a76809
File 128546255453.jpg - (81.98KB , 581x771 , Totally not Hong Kong Fooey.jpg )

>>233791
>>233794
I turn over the Edge of Oblivion to Velada and Murhyihal, feeling the temporal lock receding at the presence of the time bees, even as Burduko joins himself to the working to pull back the spatial lock as well. I see cracks finally starting to seal, the blade having its restoration begin in earnest. They add their collective efforts to my own, and I find myself hoping for a sword wholly repaired soon.

>>233801
Through Phohn I ask Murhyihal for some specifications on his powers, and come up with the following:
-spawn cannot grant regeneration to non-living organism or anything wholly inorganic.
-spawn grant equivalent regeneration to hosts as a normal spawn of equivalent quality possessed.
-spawn grant no other bonuses besides the regeneration, and cannot fight on their own.
-spawn regeneration cannot stack with other forms of regeneration.
-Murhyihal can supply proto-metal that takes on the characteristics of metal around it, rather than specific types of metal.
-Murhyihal can fully restore five Deep Spawn before running out of materials for further healing, and needing half a cycle to recover. This equates to one Deep Spawn's worth of healing a day.
-Murhyihal's regeneration requires a compliant recipient, i.e. healing cannot be administered on the fly, time must be put aside for it.
-Murhyihal's regeneration allows even magically sustained wounds that would otherwise pierce regeneration to be combated.


With this information gained, I turn my questions next on Akeakam, learning the following:
-spawn grant a strength equivalent to conventional spawn, i.e. rend mundane metal, rip bodies apart, still inferior to Deep Spawn.
-Unlike Murhyihal's spawn, Akeakam's spawn can be stacked, potentially all twenty on a single person, potentially making a normal human stronger than Vandgurd or Zelgoto.
-spawn can stack with other methods of strength enhancement.
-Akeakam's personal enhancement is multi-tiered, imbuing a passive Combat Magic that steals magic from foes on contact to add to one's own mana pool. This stolen mana is then directly converted to direct body amplification, in the form of body hardening, and improved reaction time.
-Akeakam regenerates fluids, as do its spawn, passively over the course of time.
-spawn hold enough energy to provide a ten minute boost before needing at least an hour to refill, While Akeakam regenerates more slowly but has a much larger reservoir.

>>233816
[They are gaining experience, and it is not just fighting that grants them experience.]
I use Phohn to speak with Arkus, seeking an update on the status of the Arcanoworks. It turns out despite the late hour Arkus was awake, and his report through Phohn contains the following:

-More than 1,000 hand-cannons have been made, and the original one hundred and eight still in his possession have now been modified with both Skyfall runes and a revolving cylinder for repeating shots. Several of the lesser singleshot, non-skyfall versions have been traded to the Blue Knight, in addition to several payments of rubies.
-The Arcanoworks has any metal they could ask for, Del Rogo having joined the Arcanoworks smiths, now working on building uniform plate for all soldiers, to compliment their morphic weapons and hand-cannons.
-Jezebel has finished constructing enough WASP spears and lightning guns to arm every soldier, including enough recharge packs for ten shots per person. She has now begun work on building ODIN mines, and making new versions of the TASTE o' Doom.
-Ellayia has taken several books from the library, saying she will exact payment as she continues to wait for Mordre. She still refuses to tell anyone else her findings. Thus far, she has taken three books.
-The widespread theft of minor items ended after the Watchmen under Vime's command left per orders from Brigadier General Quinton.
-Dregas has further improved the Arcanoworks finances, claiming taxes from local farming communities in exchange for both patrols and optimal commerce, insuring the people who will pay the most see the village's goods. Thus far, opinion of the Arcanoworks, and through it the 'Mage' Mordre continue to be high.
-The Blue Knight has delivered three person-sized sets of Golem Armor thus far, forged of steel, granting improved strength and complete with a funnel to direct heat from the back-mounted furnace to wrist mounted nozzles. These tank-like flamethrower suits are currently being used by Ulzrick, Vespinto and Ellorika, though only Ellorika seems to enjoy the clunky but powerful sets of equipment.
-Ulzrick has made several gains both in Magnetomancy (beyond opening locks, he can no levitate up to a pound of metal), and in Souldreaming (he can now flit into the dreams of any he's met, and independantly initiate healing.
-Reinhardt and Kyrchesia of the Paradox Knights left for half a day before returning, and resuming their occupation of the Arcanoworks.
-Eisenhardt continues to wait at the Arcanoworks, and is currently keeping an eye on the transportation box, presuming the new item to be of note.

...Quite a bit has been happening at home. I forward the same query to Mordreden, but it seems that most of those Phohn has spoken with are asleep, and his words cannot rouse the slumbering.

>>233815
>>233831
>>233866
I consider speaking with Senth, but find him so heavily entrenched in banter with Oz I refrain lest I undo the careful efforts of the prior day in ingratiating myself to the Breaker. Another time perhaps, but I find myself thoroughly intrigued by his displayed Tractomancy, especially couple with his age. After assuring myself that Bagrom does not wish further aid and being thanked for my concern, I take one last moment to check on Dulu. On finding him thoroughly entrenched in fighting the Deep Spawn while Oz chats with Senth, I depart, venturing into the nightlife of Waltora as I consider what to do. One way or another, Ash Dragon Jioga is likely coming here. This could be problematic, considering how we are ultimately rivals in this quest, and so considering this, I seek out Hieryou. I have an excuse to speak with him, namely that Bagrom has returned, as well as a chance to see him in one of his official positions. Perhaps a solution to my coming problem can be found through the judicial system, or through the military, as Hieryou has his hands in both. As I near the courthouse, walking slowly to avoid injuring the pressing throngs of people I move through, I note Korgotyo the Chained peering through a particularly open set of windows on one side of the structure, looking far too accomodating to his stature to be anything but designed for Ragegluts. I finally make it to the main doors as I hear people explode into reaction: A verdict has been rendered, it seems. Through their mutterings, a single, strident proclamation cuts like a knife, silence in its wake jarring and unnatural.

>"I demand Trial By Combat."

All eyes glue to a single figure, a man-shaped mound of muscles and matted fur, blood spattered up arms and about his mouth of fangs, a ragged red set of clothes his only possessions. He stands some eight feet tall, and likely weighs some four hundred pounds., breath steaming to mist before him. He stands surrounded by guards, spears pointing towards him from all directions. He stands before an austere panel, with three elderly officials sitting in deliberation. As one, they all turn to look at Hieryou, stepping forward as he hefts the strange, short-bladed and long-handled sword of his, saying nothing as he joins the accused within the circle of guards. One of the officials sitting in judgment holds up a liver spot covered hand, and speaks in a feeble voice.

"Then... Hieryou of the Iron Mustache shall represent the courts, as Kangaxo represents himself."

Nothing more is said as the furred Kangaxo charges forth with a turn of speed I would not have expected, closing the distance in an instant-

And dying just as fast, a sword neatly placed through his brain, directly between the eyes. His now lifeless body slumps to the ground, as Hieryou cleans the viscera from his blade, and moves back to the side of the court. ...Strange. I felt considerable magic in Kangaxo... yet none from Hieryou. What exactly did he do?

The officials briefly confer, before speaking as one.

"The case has been settled. Kangaxo was judged guilty on twelve counts of murder, and judged in a trial by combat. This session is over."

Just like that, the press of people begins to dissipate, Hieryou clearly noting my presence as he stays in the courthouse, Korgotyo still happy to sit and watch from his balcony level viewpoint.



What should I say or do?
Should I try to speak with Hieryou or Korgotyo?
Should I attempt to finagle either into sparring with Oz, which the Breaker seems to desire?

>>233871
Advise Arkus to form a Golem Armor regiment. Place Ellorika in charge and recruit volunteers from the normal troops. For now leave Ellorika piloting a Golem Armor suit, one as a training suit for the volunteers, and one as a prototype for Del Rogo, Jezebel and Arkus to add modifications to. The TASTE o' Doom can be easily added to something of that size. Also we need a flag or something to attach to Ellorika's armor too differentiate from the training armor.

So, given what we know of the customs of the land, may we soulsuck Kangaxo's soul?

Bob, you killed Hong Kong Fooey. My god.

Anyway, can you sense Kangaxo's soul? Might be a good idea to try and eat that soul, if we can. But tip out non-existant hat to Korgotyo as we walk to Hieryou.

"Greetings, Heiryou of the Iron Mustache. Who was the accused?" Walk closer to him. "Forgive me, I have never seen trial by combat before, and to see the judgment so...harsh. What is it that he did?" Beat. Illia coughs. "Oh, yes, forgive me, thank you, thank you Illia, forgive me. You're...relative, of young Bagrom, are you not? He has just returned, quiet successful, I believe. And while I was here I wished to ask some questions, if that's alright with you."

"Erm, yeah, yes, first question," Gesture to the dead creature. "What was the ex-Kangaxo? He doesn't seem to be a Rageglut although I doubt I've been here for long enough to know what counts as 'normal', haha." And pause, steeple our hands together.

Other topics of conversation:
Can we eat that soul?
How can we legally eat the souls of those we've defeated?
There is a Dragon coming. Can you give us some advice for dealing with him?
How long has Korgotyo lived here?

>>233886
I thought what we knew of the customs of the land in regards to soul-sucking was "Holy shit that's super-murder"

Also, blast, I knew we should have popped back to the Arcanoworks, but I didn't say anything. Ah well. Use Phohn to talk to Ellayia in a manner similar to how he first talked to Arkus (Being close to the Danger-Rod right?), explain that it is a secure magical means of communication. Also buy back dose fukken books. Explain to Eisenhardt, politely, that the boxes are new, a gift, and to not mess with them during Round II or any other time, please and thankyou.

>>233886
I get the feeling the answer is no, considering how they don't aggressing people's souls after the deaths of their bodies. Then again, this was a convicted serial killer, so maybe things are different in this case.

>>233886
Oh good idea....
We could even try to say that a quick death is not a suitable sentance for someone who murdered 12 people...

Don't soulsuck. At best Kangaxo will be a heroic soul, but he's probably just a normal soul with a bit of speed magic.

Talk to Hieryou about the trial, and exactly what Kangaxo did. Ingratiate yourself by agreeing with his statements of law and order, and depending on how he treats trial by combat react accordingly. Preferably, he values martial prowess, which we can use as a stepping stone in the chat.

>>233933
If we go back to the Arcanoworks, Eisenhardt will enter combat with us. Unless you have a plan for either avoiding or dealing with that, please do not suggest returning. We were only able to leave in the first place by tricking him into rushing off, remember?

>>233871
I would speak with Hieryou, first complimenting him briefly on his style and attempting to learn something about it since its characteristics are so low-key. Move on from there to explain briefly that the Ash Dragon will likely be arriving soon and not feeling terribly amicable towards you, and you thought it would be prudent to inquire as to any laws which might come up. On Dragons in general, fighting in town, that sort of thing.


While Oz might want to spar with these guys, it's not our job to make whatever he wants happen, and frankly if we make every effort to facilitate everything he wants it'll only encourage him to take longer to decide, since he'll be able to hang out with a cool guy who provides fighting fun, adventures, and works to make him happy pretty much endlessly. Not to be cynical, but we've taken steps towards friendship, and should attempt to be his friend, not someone who showers him with gifts/bribes so that he does what we say.

I vote for politely asking permission to soul suck.

Explain that if a soul is strong enough it survives within our form forever, to do battle. The ultimate reward for any true warrior.

>>233940
We have Del Rogo and with him, Del Rogo's Ax, the thing that cost Eisenhardt his apprentice and allying with Weinsho.

>>233938
Any magic is a good thing, and we can get a feel for just what the hell he was, along with maybe making ourselves seem nicer, if we're 'tormenting' a serial killer, even if he's a mage or a hero we're just using them.

>>233941
Serial Killer. Don't compliment the Serial Killer.

No soul suck. They consider the trial by combat and death to be a proper judicial punishment. Any appending to that, whether we say it's eternal torment or valhalla, is changing the status quo of the law and thus unacceptable.

Besides, we already have enough speed.

First, let us see if the soul is worth eating. If it's just a normal soul, I suppose we can pass. If it's a Hero Soul, or a Mage Soul, we should get it. Combat magic is always useful, and any Arcane that could cause speed increases we don't have or need to increase.

>>233884
Through Phohn, I instruct Arkus to form a Golem Armor regiment with the aid of Derkin and Ellorika as it's tentative lead, with the other two suits being used for training soldiers and for being experimented with by Del Roga, Arkus and Jezebel alike. I get back a reply as swift as thought, revealing that Arkus has deduced he need not speak for Phohn to hear. Arkus reports he shall do so, but that even with Dregas and the seed money of rubies, it will be considerable time until enough has been traded for a regiment's worth... unless we expend nearly all the rubies, or trade nearly all the default hand-cannons. I take his concerns under consideration as he nevertheless sets to organizing a super-heavy infantry, a walking bulwark, a Tank Division for the Arcanoworks. I eagerly await whatever changes Arkus Jezebel and Del Rogo can work on what already sound to be potent armaments.

>>233886
[What you know suggests it would be a TERRIBLE idea.]

>>233932
I nod to Korgotyo looking on from above as I work my way to Hieryou, receiving a passing gesture of acknowledgment back. Upon finally making my way to the patiently waiting Iron Mustache, his wolf once more at his side. As I approach, he speaks clearly, neither obsequious or inflammatory.

>"What do you want?"
"You're a ...relative, of young Bagrom, are you not?"
>"This is so."
"Well, he has just returned, quiet successful, I believe. "
>"...The Grand Gainer?"
"Exactly so. And while I was here I wished to ask some questions, If that's alright with you."
>"I have time yet before my military duties this night. Speak."
"What exactly was the accused? I still know little about local constructs."
>"A Warhound. Strong, fast, violent. Shorter lifespan, act recklessly."
"I see. I had two other questions of some import, as it were."
>"Being?"
"Do you have any advice, concerning how to deal with an irate Dragon, Potentially seeking violence for a perceived slight?"
>"That unless you're stupid, or they're stupid, you'll be safe. Dragon can't make the first strike, so just don't attack. And if Dragon does attack, gets a national warrant concerning the incident. ..Won't help if you lack witnesses who could tell the tale, though."
"I.. see. My final question was thus: How long has Korgotyo lived here?"
>"...Since before my birth, I could not speak beyond that."

>>233938
>>233940
"The trial seemed to go cleanly, when your turn came."
>"My foe was not focused enough to See, this is true."
"A rather unusual style, by my own experience. May I ask what makes it so... low-key?"
>"....I was not aware you could See as well."
"By 'See', you do reference sensing magic in others, yes?"
>"If by 'magic' you mean Mass Connection, then yes."
"Then it seems we are in agreement."
>"I happened to encounter a practitioner of Elegant Expunging. I coupled this with some of Iron Body and Armor Annuller, to craft something of a hybrid style. Beyond that, I speak to no one, so you shall have to make due. No warrior would speak that frankly."

At this, the enormous Korgotyo chimes in, his rumbling interjection audible to all.

"HEH. WOULD NOT DO WELL, TO SHARE ONE'S SECRETS.
QUITE THE INQUISITIVE TRAVELER, THIS GOLEM USER."
>"Perhaps, but a friend of the Tyotworro family, and thus far an acceptable guest."
"AT LEAST HE HAS MANNERS, THIS WANDERING FOREIGNER.
AND WHERE ARE YOUR MONSTERS, THAT FOLLOWED YOU BEFORE?"




What should I say or do?
Do I have words for Hieryou, Korgotyo, or both?
Or should I do something else?

Say something about how you understand the secrets bit, couldn't get you to spill the beans on your long range control method after all, and then tell 'em the truth. Your munsters are sparring with Oz, because Oz likes fightin', and the munsters regenerate from the thrashing Oz gives them. He really likes his sparring, Oz, I'm sure he'd enjoy some with you even.

>>233971
This, but preferable not worded so poorly.

Ask Keddic via Phohn what he (and The Lined One if/when Keddic finds him) knows about Elegant Expunging, Iron Body and Armor Annuller.

Let Arkus know the Armor regiment is not an immediate thing, but we shall proceed with trading with a future full regiment in mind.

"With a...friend, I suppose, of mine. Dulu, the iron one with many eyes. They are brawling togeather - something I believe Bagrom's teacher would quite enjoy with you both. But...Warhound? A construct or something of natural birth?"

And cough. "Forgive me, I don't know much about your culture, but...would it be rude of me if I allowed my golem to...use the criminal soul for experimentation?"

Rotate our head to look up to Korgotyo. "And if I may speculate, Hieryou's style is derived from Elegant Expunging sudden blade, empowered by using the Iron Body upon the blade itself? Pardon if I'm just...shooting my mouth off, as it were, but the magics...the Mass Connections of the Land of the Dragon are so...unique! They interest me more then I can say."

Suggestion 2010/09/25(Sat)21:33 No. 233988 ID: 445c48
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>>233978
>More trying to get the guy's soul

>[What you know suggests it would be a TERRIBLE idea.]

Let's stop with this.


In addition to Golem Armor sorta tank guys, let's try to build actual tanks. Maybe some that, say, shoot fuckin' lightning (I'm sure Jezebel will be happy with that), or just normal cannon. Also, we've really got to figure out how to make that morphic steel, can't run out. Which is why you should tell Arkus, Via Phohn, to buy those damn books back, they might be important. Either that or we'll need to get Senth to steal them for us, if we get back in time.

>>233988
Capacitors Ready

But it's that 'From what we know'. I'd just like to ask a legal official if we could or not, and how we could use souls for 'experimentation'.

Tell Arkus to ask her for a description and then talk to her via Phohn

Scratch that, it would not be polite to dismiss her like that even though she has been waiting.

"They are back at the estate, training in the ways of combat. They are still young constructs and have much to learn both in the ways of combat and the other Arts. I hope that my stay here will allow them to grow to be more well rounded."

"As for sensing magic, this particular construct bears several unique features, the least of which not being my newly devised 'W.O.R.L.D' System. I hope that I will be able to add much more to it in the future as it has become one of my favorites. You may understand my indisposition to the damage of such a device, by the hand of a Dragon or otherwise."

"Ah! One moment."

Do a quick scan of world magic sources in this region. I fact just do a general scan of the region right now, find what metals are around here, magic sources, rock types, etc. Just a pulse quick pulse across the magic spectrum. Find things that would be useful to you, especially Leylines.

I hope to find, among other things, a special 'ingredient' to add to our next Deep Spawn construct. Something that screams LOD.
Heck, maybe even an old set of armour that was buried close to a world magic geyser and has some latent magic stored in it or somn.

>>233990
Truthfully, though it would be a great loss, I don't think we should do much soul sucking while we are here, unless of course the soul attacks us in it's spectral state; Then it's free game.

But even if this guy can 'See', for him to be able to identify how we finished up the Deep Spawn so accurately AND on his first go, this man is good...

This truly is the Land Of Dragons. There are strong people to be found behind every bush and around every corner.

>>233945
We "have" Del Rogo? We haven't even spoken to the man since his arrival. For all we know, he's working with Arkus more because he's bored while waiting than anything else, and is planning to leave. Certainly, he'd likely object to our turning over priceless- and confidential- customer information to some random (if powerful) guy just to avoid a fight. Nor would it necessarily be wise on our part to do so, and if we're not going to hand it over then it comes back to fighting. More than that, if I recall correctly, Eisenhardt isn't after us because of Del Rogo, he's after us because we killed his apprentice and cost him years of effort. We're not going to be able to erase a grudge like that. It's easy to be distracted by the fact that Eisenhardt is a well-spoken guy, but he genuinely wants to see us dead.

So unless I'm missing something here, that doesn't really help us with the Eisenhardt issue.


>>233871
We might consider having Arkus inform Ellayia that he's been in touch with us and that we would be willing to send her transport to our current location so that we may confer, and then have her use the box to drop by once we've returned to our Land of Dragons portal. No sense having her sit around stealing our library. Speaking of which, our books! How dare she? She should be paid in rubies or something, knowledge is precious and not to be released so easily. For that matter, she clearly has free access to our library, which frankly is something that many mages would deny even valued actual employees, to say nothing of sometime contractors. That's already like paying her. Annoying.


>>233962
I hadn't realized that Korgotyo was that old. We should tell him that we'd be interested in hearing how he came to his current position sometime; we have never met a man of his particular stature (is joke, see?) before. He probably has some interesting stories to tell and would be worth associating with by virtue of having lived this long in these lands, if nothing else.

Also, as long as we're chatting here, I'd be interested in knowing just how one gets the title of Dragon. Is it simply due to having the whole legendary soul bit, and the associated metaphysical gravity that is apparent to everyone around, or is there some other qualification? Are there Dragons who have no interest in ruling places like most of them seem to? I'm basically fishing for information about the social and political structures involved here, as it would give us more of a reference to work with Oz in.

Other topics could be covered as well, of course. How Hieryou got his job, how often he encounters stubborn and powerful lawbreakers like that one, that sort of thing. How large his extended family is, and what exactly his relation to Bagrom is as unfortunately we are an ignorant foreigner and haven't picked up on this yet (is another joke).

And I suppose we could casually mention that we know Oz would relish the chance to spar with either of them, as they are doubtless highly capable, but don't push it.

Then after talking for a while, mosey on back to where Oz is; hopefully we'll have time for a bit of a chat before the Ash Dragon shows up.

Oh, one last note: Dragon's can't strike first, he said? What if we have proof that they did? And make sure that Vanguard didn't, you know, strike first.

>>234019
Ahaha, are you thinking that we could get the Ash Dragon accused of cutting down our deepspawn and accordingly in all kinds of trouble? That's awesome!

To make that happen, first point out in response to Korgotyo that our spawn are not monsters, really; they're specialized but autonomous lifeforms whose souls are shaped by another's rather than formed in the classical fashion, but for all that they're just as much people as anyone else. Do so in a casual fashion, as though discussing a science project or philosophy problem of which an old mage is exceptionally fond.

Then move on to our other suggestions, but eventually bring things around to the legal rights of ragegluts, warhounds, ancestral tombs, and other beings of debatable humanity. The point being to discover if they've got equal rights, and accordingly if we've actually got an argument here. Be subtle.

Then we just have to find out who qualifies as a witness, and if we've got one or if we'll need to trick the Ash Dragon into admitting that he whomped on our spawn when they didn't attack him in the presence of the authorities/more witnesses.

Oh, we should ask Arkus if he'd like us to pick him up a souvenir from the Land of Dragons while we are here!

>>234042
You don't ASK, you just get them some snow globe thing or a lousy t-shirt.

Who designed her character again?

ARCHIVE HUNT!

>>234049
hahahahahaha

I wholly support this.

>>234049
Last trip we brought him back a full set of Mortal Coil beginner mage books. And now we're seriously considering lowering ourselves to a snow globe? I admit that it's traditional, but I also think that we've set a high standard for ourselves and would feel bad about discarding it.

We should get him, uh. I don't know, something magical and nerdy.

>>234093
Some writings about Mass Connection?

The problem with legal action is that the rights and status of Mordre and the Deepspawn would probably come into question. The Deepspawn are to some extent part of Mordre and Mordre is actually a sentient golem, if one that could be classed as an Ancestral Tomb by LoD standards. Any witness would also potentially have to stand against Jioga's 300 officers.

Legal action probably not the best way to go about it, but it's a good deterrent or leverage.

Ask Korgotyo what he's generally up to these days. Maybe he's interested in coming on a journey?

Wow, Bob, so many updates...
It's like early Christmas here!
Thanks, man...

>>233816
>What? No pictures for our new Deep Spawns? Awww.... I like to have visual representation....
I AM ON THE CASE MY FRIEND


>>234019
If our Spawn count as people here and this actually works that would be AWESOME 8D

>>234093
>>234094
I suppose after our chat we can go out shopping? see if there is anything for sale here that would help Arkus in his studies.
Also to see more of the town would be good.

>>234052
Who designed who?? I think I missed something here.

Also I vote no for soul sucking for every case that pops up here in LoD, since it seems like a baaaaad idea.

See, I just wanna ask 'Legally, when is a soul forfit?' so we have some idea of when it would be possible. The last time we soul-ate was during a war, so I was wondering what other times would it be legally allowable - or if never, we don't bring up our eating ever.

Don't eat his soul. Don't -ask- if you can eat his soul. Don't even -mention- souls.

Man, I really want to actually have Mordre ask about his soul if only to teach you guys the fucking lesson.

Shut up about the souls.

we should probably tell Arkus to send someone to check on that forrest of omonious trees that we burned down a while ago. make sure nothing has grown back.

>>234155
this, a thousand times this.

Yeah I'm going with the people saying to not take ANY action whatsoever when it comes to souls right now.

Maybe when no one is looking, or in the chaos of a battle, but not now.

So, while rereading the seventh thread, I came upon the name Hieryou, the messenger Lubu told to give tell Jioga the challenge between us. So, is Hieryou of the Iron Mustache that Hieryou?

>>234216
[Not everyone has a different first name, different Hieryou.]

>>233971
>>233977
I pass on to Phohn a request for Keddic, to comment on anything he or his master The Lined One knows about Elegant Expunging, Iron Body and Armor Annuller. For a moment I fear Keddic to be asleep the same as others, but in that space between seconds, I get his response at the speed of thought.
-Iron Body involves just that, adding the properties of Iron to the body, presumably using the iron in one's system as a medium for this change. This style is exclusively built around defense and hardening, with little to term offense included in the style.
-Armor Annuller is something Keddic has heard of before, but never seen in practice. It seems to be a Combat magic specifically designed to reduce fights to a less charged format, using one's energy to negate the combat energies of others.
-Keddic knows nothing about Elegant Expunger, and will ask The Lined one about it and the other two styles on the morrow. Currently he is simply catching up with his master before he goes to sleep.

>>234019
[An excellent point to raise-]

>>233990
[...Okay, you want to ask this question still? Fine.]
"Hieryou, if I may ask, there was something concerning local customs and laws I wished to clarify."
>"That being?"
"Well, souls are rather clearly held in high regard here-"
>"They are the seat of consciousness, the repository of one's life and experience."
"As you say. Well, I wanted to clarify something, concerning souls. If a soul, once excised of it's mortal body, elects to attack me, can I defend myself?"
>"...You speak of a free soul beginning aggression? Yes, you can defend yourself by any means you wish in such a situation."
"Would perhaps taking a murderer's soul for experimentation-"

Hieryou's voice hardens as I feel a tinge of hostility in his form.

>"Criminal or not, his soul is his own, and no others. If you ever attack or accost an unresisting soul, you will be eligible for capital punishment any and everywhere in the whole Land. Other than direct defense of one's own life from a rogue spirit, there is NO situation where damaging or otherwise manipulating a soul without their express permission would be acceptable. Try it, and you shall be subject to having the slumbering Ancestral Tombs of any given area seeking you out in addition to local law enforcement."
"My apologies if I offende-"
>"It is not a question of offense, it is a question of common sense. Our whole society is built around extolling the strengths and virtues of the Soul, and those who in death choose service are honored for their work: How could one neglect to notice the reverance directed towards souls?"
"I am new to the area-"
>"And yet you speak our language easily. I tell you this, Mordre: You are a guest of the family, and an acquaintance of the Main line, and as such I will do my duty and be your host while in the estates. And if a Dragon does seek unlawful aggression against you, you will find myself and the Judicially-oriented Ancestral Tombs on your side, as is our duty. ...But after such poor judgment as this, do not expect me to be your friend."

Without another word, Hieryou marches away, his heavyset wolf loping along behind him, neither paying me any more attention. ...Clearly, my choice to try and weedle some means of legally harvesting souls from him was not my best idea. I hear a rumbling chuckle, and look up to see Korgotyo smiling at our exchange.

"HEH. NOT THE WISEST MOVE, THAT.
SO, NOW THAT HIERYOU AIN'T TALKING TO YOU,
WHERE ARE YOUR MONSTERS?"

>>233991
[Even with Blood Magic active, the most you could scan for on a wide scale would be Blood, and anything made of Blood Iron.]
"They are back at the estate, engaged in sparring and assorted training. They are still young constructs and have much to learn both in the ways of combat. I hope that my stay here will allow them to grow to be more well rounded."
"THEY ALMOST SOUND LIKE YOUR DISCIPLES."
"I suppose in a way that they are, as ultimately they are sapient beings, Both of my making and as such under my direct care. By my own estimates, They are just like the rest of us, hardly 'monsters' by any means."
"HMM. FORGIVE AN OLD ONE HIS SLIP OF THE TONGUE,
I SHOULD KNOW BETTER THAN TO LABEL SO, CONSIDERING MY OWN NATURE.
I SUPPOSE I AM TOO USED TO BEING SEEN AS 'NORMAL' WITHIN WALTORA."[/code]

>>2340111
"Pay it no mind, I well understand mistakes of this nature. Well, since I cannot ask Hieryou now, as I clearly angered him, Perhaps you could answer a question I hope to pose to him."
"[b]THAT BEING?"
"Combined with the... insight he has displayed, he has spoken of 'Seeing', As if to reference something beyond simply using the visual sense itself. Do you know of what he spoke?"
"AH, THAT. WELL, ONE IS TERMED ABLE TO 'SEE' WHEN THEY CAN READ THE MAGIC OF OTHERS.
THE TERM USED WHERE YOU COME FROM IS 'MAGIC', IS IT NOT?"
"Indeed.... I see, so he is a magic sensor, as I am?"
"WOULD CERTAINLY SEEM THAT WAY.
...CONCERNING YOUR... DISCIPLES, THEY CAN WITHSTAND THE BREAKER?"
"Well, so long as he does not use attacks that would directly harm the soul, yes."
"MOST IMPRESSIVE, THE HARDINESS THEY MUST HAVE."

>>234014
"So, you have been a sometime resident of this town for some time, yes?"
"YES. I TOOK UP PRIMARY RESIDENCE BEFORE SHANGOD WAS THE HIGH DRAGON....
NEARLY SIXTY YEARS AGO, NOW THAT I THINK ON IT.
I HAD FINALLY SAVED UP ENOUGH TO BUY OUT,
AND WAS NO LONGER MILITARY PROPERTY, BUT A FREE MAN."
"That must make you quite the fixture of the town... And a veteran from before the last Emperor? I do not meet men of such stature often."
"HEH, HEH, HEH. IS GOOD JOKE.
I THANK YOU FOR THE COMPLIMENT."

Korgotyo begins to stretch, pulling back from the open balcony he had been looking through, suppressing a yawn a horse could vanish into behind a gnarled and callused hand.

"MEH. GOT ANOTHER NIGHT PRACTICE TONIGHT...
HONESTLY, ALWAYS SO BUSY WHEN I COME BACK."
"You seem to be something of a celebrity at that school, is this not so?"
"YEAH, THAT IS SO. MOSTLY DUE TO THE FACT I SURVIVED FIGHTING A DRAGON,
SOME SEVENTY FIVE YEARS AGO, AND HAVE BEEN PRACTICING CHAINING CALAMITY,
FOR LONGER THAN THE CURRENT MASTER HAS BEEN ALIVE.
LONGER LIFESPAN HAS ITS PERKS."
"Perhaps you could clear up some confusion for me: What makes a Dragon different from a Living Legend, like Oz?"
"A DISTINCTION NOT ALL THAT MANY CAN MAKE WITH CERTAINTY.
ALL DRAGONS ARE LIVING LEGENDS, BUT NOT ALL LIVING LEGENDS ARE DRAGONS.
BECOMING A DRAGON MEANS BECOMING A LIVING LEGEND THROUGH MILITARY SERVICE,
AND BY VIRTUE OF BECOMING THAT POTENT, HAVING AN ARMY AT YOUR BACK.
SO REALLY, THE DIFFERENCE IS THAT DRAGONS HAVE SOLDIERS, AND MUCH MORE TO TRACK,
THAN A LIVING LEGEND LIKE OZ, WHO SIMPLY HAS HIS STRENGTH TO MANAGE.
REALLY, ITS A QUESTION OF ONE'S AMBITION TO COMPLEMENT THEIR STRENGTH:
DO THEY SIMPLY SEEK PERSONAL STRENGTH, OR DO THEY SEEK CONTROL?
NOT THE ANSWER MOST WOULD GIVE, BUT I'VE FOUND IT LARGELY ACCURATE."
"So how would a Living Legend with a number of disciples be viewed?"
"A GOOD QUESTION. ACTUALLY, THAT'S ONE OF THE OTHER TWO WAYS TO BECOME A DRAGON.
ONE CAN BECOME ONE BY GROWING THROUGH MILITARY SERVICE AS MOST DO,
ONE CAN BECOME A DRAGON BY FAIRLY CHALLENGING AND BESTING A DRAGON,
AND LASTLY BY BEING A LIVING LEGEND THAT GAINS SUFFICIENT NUMBERS OF DISCIPLES.
AND BEFORE YOU ASK, THERE IS NO SET DIVIDING LINE FOR THAT LAST METHOD,
AS IT HAPPENS SO RARELY. HASN'T HAPPENED MORE THAN ONCE IN MY LIFE,
AND THE ONE THAT DID PASSED AWAY A DECADE AGO.
WHY DO YOU ASK ABOUT DISCIPLES?"
"Well, Oz has taken on a student, and seems inclined to take on more."
"NO KIDDING? I WISH HIM THE BEST OF LUCK ON THAT,
IT HURT TO SEE SUCH A TALENTED WARRIOR HAVE SO LITTLE."
"Well, I know he would certainly appreciate the chance to speak with you, And to possibly even have a sparring match: If you wished, I could offer my own disciples, To play sparring partner to you, or even your school, in exchange for your time."
"....HRM. A SPAR WITH A LIVING LEGEND? A FIGHT AGAINST YOUR OWN FOLLOWERS?
AND GETTING SOMEONE TO AID IN MY LESSONS? ...I DO BELIEVE I AM INTRIGUED.
...LET ME SEE... AH, I COULD HAVE A SPAR WITH OZ TOMORROW AFTERNOON,
AND SPEND TIME BEFORE HAND SPEAKING ON WHATEVER SUBJECTS HE WISHED,
IF HE AND YOUR OWN DISCIPLES CAME TO THE CHAINING CALAMITY SCHOOL.
LET HIM KNOW THE OFFER IS OPEN, WILL YOU?[b]"
"Of course, and I appreciate your accommodating gesture."
"[b]EH. SEEMS CLEAR ENOUGH TO ME YOU ARE JUST TRYING TO GET YOUR FEET WET,
LEARN THE AREA, ALL THAT, AND HIERYOU MIGHT HAVE TAKEN YOUR QUESTION THE WRONG WAY...
THAT LAD'S ALWAYS BEEN EASY TO AGGRAVATE, GOT IN FIGHTS ALL THE TIME AS A WEE TIKE."

Korgotyo finish pushing himself away from the courthouse, and begins to depart with some simple words.

"WELL, IT WAS NICE MEETING YOU, BUT I MUST GO.
UNLESS YOU ARE TURNING IN FOR THE NIGHT,
YOU ARE WELCOME TO COME TO THE SCHOOL IF YOU DESIRE...
BUT I WOULD RECOMMEND SEEKING OUT HIERYOU:
YOU MIGHT WANT TO TRY EXPLAINING WHY YOU ASKED HIM THAT,
BEFORE HIS IRRITATION HAS TIME TO FESTER.
IT WAS GOOD TO SPEAK WITH YOU, MORDRE."

So I find myself surrounded by milling people within the courthouse, Korgotyo departing towards the Chaining Calamity School, and Hieryou having traveled deeper into the bowels of the courthouse. I consider what would be the best use of my time, considering that Jioga is an ever-looming threat, even as I find myself stuck in Waltora for the moment.



What should I say or do?
Should I go after Hieryou and try to assuage his aggravation, and if so how will I do this?
Or should I follow after the thus far exceptionally helpful Korgotyo, to speak or observe the school he teaches at?
Or should I go back to the Tyotworro estate, and hunker down for the night?
Or should I do something else?

Damnit, shouldn't have asked about experimentation on souls. Criminal Experimentation is really weird, even when it's on the body and not the soul. The self-defense question was good, though.

Tell Phohn to tell Oz about the sparring thing.

Very smooth. Kinda like asking if its ok to perform experimentation on random civilians.

Ok, for a "Why do we know the language damn well but not the customs" reason, first explain that, being a research oriented mage, you have taken it upon yourself to learn many languages, so as to not be slowed when you encounter a book in a foreign tongue, and you've rather got a knack for languages. You learned Low because, after your last brief trip here, you saw many interesting and very different golems than you were used to, and prepared in case you ever ventured back, or came across/purchased a book detailing these golems. You learned the language from one of your staff, whose family is from the Land of Dragons, but who was born and raised up near where you are. Her parents were raised up near you as well, it is her grandparents who made the move. She still needs to speak Low, because her parents speak it at home, and she must occasionally talk to her grandparents as well, but because she is third generation, she doesn't know too much about the culture down there. In addition, she's off this week, so you can't ask her to ask her parents or something about the customs here.

I don't even know what the fuck I'm talking about

>>234217
>[...Okay, you want to ask this question still? Fine.]
Dammit, Bob, must we all suffer for the foolish curiosity of one person, even when most of us were explicitly against this line of questioning? (Apparently yes.)

Okay, lines of logic to get us out of this. Um... We were looking for a cultural reference point, because [insert nation here] does that regularly, and we wanted to know if criminal punishment in the Land of Dragons ends with death. It wasn't a matter of us actually wanting to experiment with a soul. Because that would be wrong.

Yeah, that's all I've got at the moment and I don't know how persuasive it would be. But we should definitely try to smooth this over if we can come up with good arguments for it. After watching us make new creatures and having heard us ask that question, Hieryou is probably pretty sure at this point that we're a crazy unethical soul mage.

"I suppose you're right. I do hope he'll be willing to listen to reason."

Alright, find Heiryou before he starts shitting bricks.

"It occurs to me that I did not look at the context in which my question was asked. Would you permit me to speak on my behalf, lest you judge me upon faulty premises?"

"My question was relevant on two fronts to myself:

In my own lands, I am opposed to an individual who is guilty of taking not only the bodies of the innocent, but their souls for his own experimentation and as fuel for his magic. To my knowledge, he has abducted at least one village, possibly more, for the purpose of..."materials." I believe he has bases here, and if so, I needed to know how customs in your land would view his actions, and any potential response I made against him, before I could consider making a move against him.

Secondly: I will say only that I recommend you look into the customs of other lands before casting aspersions on individuals. Judging a man by killing him would not have been considered a fair test of innocence in other lands. I mean no offense, only a suggestion to broaden yourself."

If he asks US about our lands customs on souls:

"...a touchy subject. The soul is an important part, the core, to any being. Valuable, but not necessarily moreso than an individuals life, you understand?

An example: If one would take an innocent life or commit some other atrocity, the body is not alone in that act. His soul doesn't get a free pass of innocence. HE is guilty of that act, body, mind and soul, and all are ultimately forfeit, however distasteful. Whereas, If I'm correct in my assumption, your people view them as separate entities and judge them separately, they are considered the same, separate parts but one entity, in others, and judged collectively.

Though doing anything to the soul is considered a harsher punishment than death, by its very nature of being a harder thing for the average person to accomplish."

That about right?

"On the other hand, however, Soul Magic, the act of using Souls as a fuel source for a type of powerful magic, is considered absolutely outlawed, with a few exceptions. Your own land's use of your own souls in the style of the Jade Monks or Mass Connection would be a capital crime, punished by all nations."

>>234221
I ask Phohn to relay to Oz that Korgotyo would be willing to spar and speak alike tomorrow afternoon at the Chaining Calamity school, and that the Deep Spawn would be coming as well. I shortly get a response that Oz is most impressed, but would like have been told beforehand about someone who can speak into your mind.

...This is not a good moment.

>>234230
...I find myself fearing I pretend to be human far too much now, as I realize the error of my earlier remark. Coupled with seeing me fully craft beings under my power, and ones that do not look particularly friendly at that... and my own rather imposing appearance, I would be surprised if he did NOT think me some wild and unethical Soul Mage.

Because the alternative would be that he suspect my true secret.

>>234231
>>234233
>>234235
My mind racing to come up with ways to bridge the divide I made, I bid my farewells to Korgotyo, having found him a highly useful conversation partner.

"I suppose you are right. I do hope he'll be willing to listen to reason."

I wave goodbye to the passing titan, still impressed by his admission he fought a Dragon to a standstill, before I take off after Hieryou, carefully formulating my recovery. Thankfully he did not travel down unduly small corridors, and I am just able to fit, much to the chagrin of a few straggling audience members and staff, who press aside to let me pass, eyeing my approach with wariness, but noting the absence of my sword, for those few that have seen me yet. I find myself doubly grateful I left it with my Deep Spawn for repairs, as it adds a less combative air to my presence, without it upon my back. I find Hieryou looking over some paperwork and signing pages, not looking up even when his faithful wolf flicks its ears towards me.

>"Go away please, I have much work to do."
"It occurs to me that I did not look at the context in which my question was asked. Would you permit me to speak on my behalf, lest you judge me upon faulty premises?"
>"Speak."
"My question was relevant on two fronts to myself: In my own lands, I am opposed to an individual who is guilty of much, Having taking not only the bodies of the innocent and not just combatants, But their souls for his own experimentation and as fuel for his magic. To my knowledge, he has abducted at least one village, possibly more, for this purpose. I believe he has bases here, and if so, I needed to know how customs in your land would view his actions, And any potential response I made against him, before I could consider my approach."

At this Hieryou looks up, his gaze obscured within his stylized helm, still atop his head, before he returns to his writings.

>"You tell the truth, I See. Hm. The second reason?"
"I gained my knowledge of this language in absence of cultural exchange, So despite my linguistic capacity, I know very little of the land, and had no intention to offend. The lands I call home actually have different laws concerning the soul, That being that the crimes of life pass on to the soul, making them culpable as well. ...Consider it like this: A soul is still precious, simply not any more so that an individual's life, And so the crimes of the body pass on to the soul... I am not legally minded, so forgive my explanation."

Again Hieryou looks up, and this time puts his pen down, his body adopting a less aggressive posture in his seat.

>"...Again I See truth. ...Then it seems I was in error. I understand the nature of your question now. You are not from the desert, the coastal regions, or the swamp, but the far north. Interesting, one from so far. ...Concerning that accused you mentioned, who is it you speak of?"
"A Mage Weinsho."
>"I don't know the name, but if you could find their residence and some sort of evidence for your claims, I could forward it both through military courts and judicial ones, to insure bribery is as practically impossible to achieve as is feasible. Only in the instance that you can convince me of your claims."

Hieryou turns back to his writings.

>"Ultimately, I am still busy, so unless you wish to watch me do paperwork for a short while then attend to night command of the local garrison, I will still ask that you leave. I find it difficult to write when being spoken to."

I consider the fact it is still deeply early in the morning, hours before dawn.



What should I say or do?
Should I go back to the estate to do something or speak to someone?
Or should I seek out Korgotyo and his nighttime instruction?
Or should I simply wander the city night?
Or perhaps return to the estate and feign sleep?

Heh, it seems that he has an ability to see if someone is lying or telling the truth, a truly valuable skill in judiciary work.

I wonder how it works on non-organics like us. Does he see the soul or something...
hmm

Oh, since we are here we could ask about Jiogas attack on our Deep Spawn and the legality of that act.

Here is an idea. Go spar with Oz. You may get some awesome insight and he would get to have fun against a stronger opponent.

Scratch that. Let's wait to do that until after Ash Dragon catches up and decides that he wants to kill us.

Wander around, see that sights, get accustomed.

Well we have an ace. Dulu is walking proof and a witness to Weinsho's ability and willingness to enslave the souls of the dead. Mordre even freed him from his terrible shackles! Anyway it's mission time. Get back to the estate and make sure everything is all right. Consider the possiblity of setting off towards Lubu after visiting the Chaining Calamity School with Oz.

During the night do a few ability experiments. Is it possible to hollow out AGC cannon shells and using pyromancy to fill them with soulfire? I am assuming the shells won't be harmed while in the cannon as the shells should share the soul grave soulfire immunity while they're part of Mordre. The soulfire will probably melt out of and destroy the shell once it's in flight, but that's ok. It would add a new all-burning flavor to the AGC shells which individually tend to lack punch against large opponents. Don't go firing the cannon in the night however.

Also make some very long pieces of flexible metal wire using magnetomancy. We know that Zakrath's magnetic field is too weak to support Mordre's weight using his current strength, but if wires are unfurled from Mordre's body for hundreds of metres in all direction then it might act as a magnetic sail or at least a magnetic parachute allowing hovering or limited flight. Probably too bulky to use in battle, but very handy in general. Just throwing this out there.

>>234272
Actually thanks for reminding me about this stuff.

Can't draw em right now but I can suggest something.

Grow a tube under your AVG blades (or any location you find opportune) and task it to be filled with tiny B.Iron balls, each about the size of a pin head. This will be your new 'iron storm' holder.
Should be simple enough.

I will have to draw the AGGrapnel and the Repulsion devices later.

First, to explain myself to my fellow...pieces of chaos: I asked how we could legally use souls, and we have our answer. We must talk to souls and ask them if we may. I suggest we try this with [s]Hong Kong Fooey[/b]Kangaxo, and this will also help us with learning to talk to our own souls and gain their wisdom. So instead of eating vast armies we have to pick and choose.

As for what to do: "Forgive me, Hieryou," Bow, deeply as we can. "And thank you for your keen insight." Pause and look to him. "You know what it is my," cough. "Beads to, and you can see truth from lies. I feel that this village is safe within your legal protection, and that so am I." Bow again. "Forgive me for distracting you I still...and adjusting for it to be night when I am use today. If you have a moment before you rest for the night, I would like your opinion about something. Once you have finished, of course, and you return to your estate."

Turn and leave. Go see if Kangaxo still exists and see if we can speak with it, convince it to allow us the use of its soul.

But let's meander about for a while, taking in the sights, sounds, and lay out of the town for an extended siege or attack while making it back to the Estate.

Leave Heiryu alone for the moment, the man is busy.

Lets just take in the Scenery of the Tyotworro estates and GET OUR SHIT TOGETHER. Perhaps a little stroll around the city will give us some breathing room to collate the situation right now.

We have alot on our plates at the moment.

Afterwards, lets go check upon our Deepspawn, and consider the merits of merging them with another egg.

The eggs are already named, are they not? This suggests they may have some manner of individuality. I wonder if merging them and a Pre-existing Deepspawn would yield simply an enhanced version of the current Deepspawn (I.E. merging Nidhogg and Mothbern would make a more formidable Mothbern) or if it would yield a more radical change then that.

OUr Deepspawn are intelligent beings as well. Let us ask their thoughts on the subject.

>>234295
>>233787
[Putting a new core in could graft new abilities, forcibly evolve and improve existing Deep Spawn. otherwise, they all start at a given baseline based on your own soul.]

>>234291
Dammit, no. No.

Just stay away from soul based shit other than attacks while we are in this city. We just got back in the man's good graces, I don't want to give him ANY reason to change that.

If we do decide to do soul stuff, do it when we are FAR away from this place. VERY FAR away.

-------------------------------
It would be nice to make another Padgoda for our travel, a BIG one.

You could even buy some bedding and make tiny bedrooms and storage areas. Make it fancy, you can buy more wine and tea, some meat, stuff like that. Pick up the food when you are ready to leave.

Then move quickly, Beating heart type of speed.

>>234268
>>234272
"I do have something of proof, on two counts: The testimonial of two of my servants, attacked by Jioga, As well as an Ancestral Tomb once enslaved to Weinsho's service."
>"As to your claims against Weinsho, until you can show me WHO this Weinsho is, a place to direct charges against, I can do nothing. You say he has holdings in these lands? Find them, then bring your testimonial. As to the Ash Dragon... I find myself skeptical of what will testify against a Dragon's word. Two beings you crafted?"
"They quite literally cannot tell a lie."
>"...That is one hell of a useful thing, and you believe it, I See that. ...Okay, when I get back from my shift at the barracks, bring your two before me, and should their testimony be what you claim, I could get the Ancestral Tombs sworn to uphold laws in this city to preemptively act to impose law, Order on the Dragon. But be aware I am still skeptical of your claim."
"I can accept that. When you return from your duties, then."

[APPOINTMENT MADE]

>>234295
I leave the courthouse, and rather than return to the Tyotworro estates, or seek someone out.... I walk. I wander the streets as I let time pass, Murhyihal, Akeakam, Velada and Burduko all laboring over the Edge of Oblivion in their own ways, and Hieryou puts away hours at his primary vocation.

As I walk, I note an oddly over-sized figure, some good two heads taller than the crowds (still present even in the dead of night, lanterns lighting the streets), wearing an enormous cloak that doesn't quite cover the few flashes of vibrant red that are seen, a metallic sheen-

That rejects my Magnetomantic attention. Combat magic seethes... and more than this, I sense the feel of a Small Tomb... is this one of the local Ancestral Tombs?

It is almost laughably attempting to be discreet, and I know not why.



What should I say or do?
Should I try to speak to the presumed Ancestral Tomb?
Or should I return to the manor to await Hieryou?
Or should I do something else?

>>234300
We can have souls with their expressed permission. But I suppose you're right. I do want a Hound soul - more different souls, more power.

And Emba? Thanks for saving my ass. I suppose I phrased the question wrong, and it was stupid to press the issue, even if a theoretical way.

>>234305
Sigh, stop and turn. "Forgive me, friend, I have an appointment I must keep. I would so love to keep this cat-and-mouse game going, it is quiet lively, and does my old mind good, but could you please tell me what you want? The last time I missed an appointment...well, everything did turn out for the best, but I feel not as good as it could be. Did someone perhaps send you after me, or maybe you wish to talk? Please, come forward, I don't bite. Well, I doubt I could bite you, being several...Well, I am a good three nations or so, let us put it that way, mhm? And this golem is not so violent as it seems." Cough. "Forgive me, I do go on when I get nervous. Who are you?"

>>234305
>[APPOINTMENT MADE]

Oh, God. Do not forget this.
Remember how we forgot to meet Dulu after the the attack on the caravan when we were playing wiht Keddic for the first time?
Never again.

Ask Phohn to remind you if we forget for one reason or another...

>>234308
What makes you think that the person is stalking us?
From the update it did not seem like it was following us just that it was trying to be discreet (not necessarily from us)

>>234310
Ah, forgive me, I seem to have not noticed the 'crowds that were still present'.

Well, lets continue exploring - keep our eyes open for any good books to get - and see if the figure follows us. If he does, just walk towards him and say 'hello' and be as friendly as we can.

Reminds yourself of what time he'll be off of his shift. If you don't know, call Phohn to get Burduko to come with you so he can teleport you home as soon as Phohn notices the Iron Mustache gets home.

Have you got any of the local currency? I forget. If so, looks around for two cheap souvenirs, one for you and one for Arkus, something like a snow globe or a shirt, something that clearly says "I went to the Land of Dragons" but is also kind of lame, then go back to the Manor and wait.

Make it quite obvious that you are observing him.

>>234314
Rotate our head backwards as we're walking forwards? Or just seperate our eyes and have them look at him?

From my perspective, the tall guy looks like one of the Ancestral Tombs Hieryou mentioned that maintain law and order, using Combat Magic to cast an illusion over itself, which Zagrath's soul allows us to pierce (only the visual component though, can we hear anything from it?), so that it can watch for criminal actions without being seen. So it is probably not something to worry about, ignore it unless it is obvious it is following us; continue to walk around, watching for some interesting things we could get for our followers (anything that would reveal some aspect of magic for Arkus, something to help Ulrick learn Will Magic and/or Magnetomancy, anything with World Magic for Moss, etc.), listen to the conversations around to gather information, and search for metal in the ground for our consumption and precious metals to amplify the power of runes (if we were to concentrate platinum/gold into the runes of the Amaranthine Annihilator and Immortal Genocide, what would happen?).

Both.. heheheheh

Ask Zagrath about him.

>>234313
Or we could get something that would be of actual use. Or something that Arkus specifically wants. We haven't asked him about it.

>>234322
In addition to a lame souvenir.

>>234322
do mages/wizards have wizard hats in this setting? we could get Arkus one if he does not already have one.

...Well, we have an appointment which is all good, but I don't think Mordre actually told us exactly what happened other than Jioga kicked some Deep ass. Given the lack of detail, I'm a bit leery of going into this court unprepared.

Bob!t/UKid4z5s 2010/09/26(Sun)18:42 No. 234332 ID: a76809
File 128555171996.jpg - (200.99KB , 578x788 , Paradox Knight Red Comet.jpg )

>>234309
I convey my desire to Phohn that the moment Hieryou is seen returning to the estate, Burduko is to come teleport me back, so that we may speak immediately. As such, he is to move to my side now, so that he can return with me in tow when needed. In minutes, he should arrive.

>>234313
I realize that I have no coinage on my person, neither can my non-Blood based powers sense any metal un-mined in the area. I am penniless for the moment, Senth having returned with naught but Bagrom.

>>234314
>>234315
I turn my head to constantly face the furtive figure, a sentry locked on its form, and in seconds I find this highly conspicuous figure halts, standing tall. I note that traffic continues to move about the figure with nary evidence of interest-or indeed, recognition. Perhaps they cannot see it? It is possible there is some obscuring illusion to its name, yet unable to veil it from the aid of Zagrath-

"Be oh, so, wary, O' host of mine, For that soul has been seen before, And made for a most terrible time."

With his caution and apparent recognition of the soul before me, I find the hood being pushed back, the cloak beginning to swing wide, and still the flow of feet moving about it like an island. Beneath that cloak there rested a massive sword, a matching smorgasbord of reds to match the small tomb-I suspect Red Steel, now that I look upon it, With a few pillars of platinum sticking out heavy with deeply ensconced gems and neat, tiny runes. Along the spine of the sword, similar amplified runing is present, and I suspect potent magics to have indirectly been linked to the already highly potent Red Steel.

An interesting individual to meet in the street, when in a land that to my knowledge does not make Red Steel.

A voice calls out to me-

-into my mind.

"You Can Percieve Me. Be On Your Way, I Have Work To Attend To."

>>234316
Ah, my mistake, this must be an Ancestral Tomb. One of those upholding law and order in this area, The wardens Hieryou spoke of? I will not impose or so go my thoughts, sent back to the speaker through their connection, detectable thanks to my experience with Lenryt's work.

"...Your Thoughts Are In Common. I Had Not Noted. And You Communicate With Locals So Fluently... Who Are You?"

The Mage Mordre, currently based in the Azelhaedran State my response goes, as the figure nods' the cloak shifting enough to reveal some sort of enormous chimera of drill and spine protruding from its back, as another set of words carry through.

"Then You Shall Understand The Following's Implications: I Am A Member Of The Order Of Harmonious Discord, A Paradox Knight, The Red Comet. Now Leave Me Be Mortal, I Have Duties To Attend To."




What should I say or do?

Yeah, up to the Estate, let's find Zelgoto and Vangurd. And does anyone remember if we left any other Deep Spawn back on our Pagoda? That would be good, we could get more to come back and give there statements.

>And does anyone remember if we left any other Deep Spawn back on our Pagoda?

If that's the case we should just All-Call with phohn.

I was just thinking. Should we get a bureaucracy-themed Deep Spawn, one centered around PAPERWORK and BOOKKEEPING?

I am pleased to meet another of the order. Maybe you can drop by for tea later?
Oh heavens, I suppose you no longer drink either.. hmmm well maybe swapping stories?

Ah well, if you meet with him first, say hi to Risendhart(?) for me.

>>234332
I think we should leave him be... although... perhaps mentioning that we met another of his order recently would be safe enough, as a passing comment. Don't mention it's Reinhardt unless his reaction is favorable.

Then just walk off without waiting for a response.

After you leave, ask Zakrath about him and maybe pop off one eye to continue to observe him from above.

>>234340
He knows we did:
>Then You Shall Understand The Following's Implications

This was after we mentioned where we were from. It's thus clear he's communed with HARMONY.

>>234332
>>234332
"Oh! Forgive me. You have heard good things from Reinhardt, I hope. May I assist?" So, so the thought should go.

If not: "Then good hunting, Red Comet. I hope I will not trouble you again."

If yes: "I have some business of my own, but before and after that time, I will assist where I can. What are you after?"

And to Phohn ask, if Arkus is awake, if Reinhardt has heard of the Red Comet. And then ask Zagrath where he's seen The Red Comet before.

>>234342
The reason I'm...concerned is the 'Mortal' comment. We're not, and Reinhardt knows that. So would Kirchesia. So...let's see if we can pay attention to how his magnetic or electromagnetic field looks, or if it's missing, doesn't look so we can track him later.

>>234347
It's obvious they lied for us in repayment of reuniting us with Reinhardt's family.

>>234350
*them, rather. hurr.

>>234350
...True. But I thought the knights were all like Reinhardt and Kirchesia. Mmhm...oh well, Still worrying.

>>234332
Leave him be, but idly offer him some aid in his duties and a place to stay if he's ever in our part of the world as we walk away.

If we come across any nice silk robes I think that one would suffice as a nice souvenir for Arkus. I don't recall him having a recent set of mage robes yet and he'd have a nice piece of gear to rune up and tinker with to increase his power.

>I am penniless for the moment, Senth having returned with naught but Bagrom.
Now wait a minute.
Did Keddic take the prize money or did he leave it with Senth?

Lets leave him alone. We shouldn't bother him

>>234358
Oh, it is/was with Senth. In fact Keddic specifically told More in his report he left the money with him.

So, we have a teleporting Kleptomaniac on our hands quite likely... though we never did ask him directly for the money. We should deal with that.

>>234334
[None left.]

>>234358
[I dunno, what did happen? Who did I say had the money last?]

>>234338
>>234340
I recall Reinhardt and Kyrchesia back at the Arcanoworks, the Order they are part of... clearly another member, and I wonder if mentioning them may glean more information... I let my rapidly shifting thoughts coalesce, and send what I hope to be a good idea to The Red Comet.

I am pleased to meet another of your Order, As both Rheinhardt and Kyrchesia have been gracious guests, Still back in the Azelhaedran State at my Arcanoworks, as it were. In case you are back in the area before me, as I have much to attend to, Perhaps you could say hi to your comrades for me? the thoughts ring out clearly along The Red Comet's connection. The previously nonreactive Small Tomb twitches his helm in surprise, before thoughts blast into my head with a great deal of weight.

"You Know Both Reinhardt And Kyrchesia?
This Denotes You Know Their Nature,
Something Kyrchesia Does Unwillingly....
Why Are They At Your Abode,
And Why Do You Know Kyrchesia?

>>234341
Just as I make as if to walk off, having simply dropped names of import before being on my way, I find myself grinding to a halt as I consider the question.

>>234347
>>234350
...So, he does not know what I am. This raises several questions. Reinhardt and Kyrchesia both had already been informed of my nature when they arrived several weeks ago, and the information seemed to come from within their Order. Why would The Red Comet not know of this?

Apparently my thoughts are not guarded enough, as The Red Comet's own comments reach my mind.

"Aaah, You Are The New Anathema, I Recall Mention Of Such.
Hm, But What Brings You To The Land Of Dragons?
Clearly Reinhardt Has Approved You To Travel,
As I Would Have Felt His Death."

Startled by the subtle precision he stole those thoughts from my mind, I am unable to deflect his second delving, and shortly he notes my reflexive considerations of dealings with Lenryt.

"Ah, Another Of Lenryt's Would Be Champions.
So, Which Dragon Do You Serve, Then?"

My body frozen and still drawing attention as my mind races, I continue to gaze at the Small Tomb no one else notices. My thoughts turn to Lubu as I resign myself to the fact this one can manipulate minds far to expertly for me to ward him without preparation. I offer up who I seek the gratitude of, in the hopes The Red Comet will be less invasive. But upon reading my thoughts, he moves as if to laugh, and I see a few confused faces beginning to glance his way, as if his veil was beginning to waver in his joviality.

"Lubu? That One? Hrm, Jaegrezweistrick Would Love You,
For Having The Confidence To Choose So.
You Are The Only Would Be Champion On His Side, To My Knowledge."


The Red Comet begins to turn as if to go, eyes still combing over my form, as if hesitant to resume his duties.



What should I say or do?
Should I continue speaking/thinking to The Red Comet, or should I do something else?

>Aaah, You Are The New Anathema, I Recall Mention Of Such

SHITFUCKBALLSCRAP

THERE IS A WHOLE GODDAMN ORGANIZATION THAT KNOWS WHAT WE ARE

Ask who Jaegrezweistrick is.

>You Are The Only Would Be Champion On His Side

What? Did she send other her champions to help other dragons?
Is-... is Lenryt cheating on us?!


>[I dunno, what did happen? Who did I say had the money last?]
I am pretty damn sure Keddic left the bag with him, I think we even told Mordre that he should have it.

to quote Keddic from our apparently bad memory, as Bob ninjad me within seconds of posting:

"Oh, one more thing: I won. He has my prize money too, so keep that in mind."

>>234375
>What? Did she send other her champions to help other dragons?
>Is-... is Lenryt cheating on us?!

THEORYCRAFTING!

Lenryt is seeking a Champion. To this end, she's contacted numerous individuals who may be roughly even with us in terms of power, and sending them to various Dragons.

Since the Dragons are in conflict, so are her To-Be-Champions, making for the nice situation of being able to test and eliminate us in one fell swoop. Thusly, we can expect to fight other champions in the future.

And if we do, we should be as lethal with them as physically possible.

DAMMIT SENTH!!!

Mordre, remember that Keddic sent you a Phohn call, telling you that Senth had his money and pipe, you have to pick that up with sir trollingwood at the earliest opportunity.

Oh? There are other champions? Well I cannot say that I am surprised, it would be unlike Lenryt to leave anything completely to chance.

Though it seems that you know more of the situation than I do.
If you wouldn't mind, perhaps I could accompany you for a time so that we may continue to chat without further delaying your journey?

>>234365
Senth had the money. (Though I thought the prize money Keddic won in the Grand Gainer was given over to Senth in exchange for Senth's employment to Mordre?)

Also, there was a CHOICE!? Lenyrt did not offer any choice! ARGHASDFGHJKL! I mean, we like the guy (or I do, at least), but we also like having a choice in what we do, as Lenyrt should very well know since we told her when we met her! ...Then again, the only Dragon we knew of was Lubu, so there wasn't so much of a choice in that and wasting time to tell us of a choice that didn't exist is foolish and extremely out-of-character for Lenyrt and then we would be annoyed at her for doing that and we did have a choice (though that was just 'help Lenyrt' or 'ignore Lenyrt'), but still!

>>234368
This shouldn't be a surprise. Kirchesia did say the information was confined to the order, not to the two of them.

Can we kind of throw in a side thought, small and quick, about being called something other than Anathema? It's kinda mean.


Ask about Jaegrezweistrick. Think about how Lubu's a pretty cool guy, and killed a core being host with your help, that was pretty cool.


>>234375
I think I recall Senth having the bag last. We should order Phohn to, if he's near Senth, actually verbally ask him usin' talkin' bits instead of the weird headvoice, because that throws people, about where the money is, or get another deep spawn to.

>Aaah, You Are The New Anathema, I Recall Mention Of Such

So if we're the new one, what happened to the old one?

>>234368
They knew about us before hand, that's why we got a visit from Reinhardt and Kyrchesia. And that's what Reinhardt and Kyrchesia kinda are, if I remember right.

But yes, Who is Jaegrezweistrick, and what is he doing here [This is our most important question, so we can help and get the Harmonious Discord on our side], and what else does he know about these other 'Would-Be Champions'.

And remember, Lenryt already said she had other agents. We are just a free agent she is most likely testing.

Ask if he knows who these Dragons are, too.

Oh yes, and just what Reinhardt and Kyrchesia said about us.

>>234381
We should call him Jag for short

>>234382
heh
>.>
<.<

No, no, Reguading Senth, we go back and talk to him in person. We are Cross. He will nto like us when we are Cross. He will duel everyone we know, mass-duel.

>>234387
i.e. He fights Budurko, temporal stability, naughty naughty, STIM PACK, SMACK!

in that order

We should offer to join the Tomb's patrol for awhile, as we do not want to hold him up from his duty. Offer our assistance even, if he wishes to take it while we take up some of his attention.

After our conversation concludes, we need to go to Bagrom whenever he is awake and apologize, likely stating that we had somehow erroneously assumed we already had his permission due to forgetfulness, We ask Sten about the money, as he may just give it to us, then we become cross and call in temporal lock spawn if he refuses, and consider if we want some Tractomancy for Morde. As of now, this is coming off like a very un-useful bargain mercenary.

>>234390
Well, I would presume that the Red Comet's work requires some subtlety since it (or whatever appropriate pronoun) is using illusion magic to disguise itself, and since we are very not subtle, it probably isn't a very good idea to go along with him. We could ask him about his work, though, I guess, while we stand in the street.

...We are standing out like a sore thumb, aren't we, a metal golem standing in the middle of a street.

>>234394
What? For all anyone else knows, the "mage behind the golem" is ah, AFK, so to speak.

Questioning is all well and good, but we should probably leave him be to do his job. >>234394 has a point with the subtlety thing.

We should go have a chat with Senth, now that he isn't talking to Oz, I think. He hasn't really been introduced to US in the form of Mordre yet. And if we manage to get some moneys, we can get Arkus a book or something! Magical trinket? Charm of protection? And if we want to h=get something lame to go with it that is fine too, I guess. But the lame souvenir shouldn't be the only thing, he deserves something for working so hard!

>>234372
So who is Jaegrezweistrick? I inquire into The Red Comet's mind, before he even has a chance to take a step himself. Thoughts fly back in a tone that makes me think he is acting more familiar with me, with the context of the Order's interactions with me now known.

"Ancestral Dragon Jaegrezweistrik The Radical AxeGod Is Another Paradox Knight, A Local Dragon, The Only.. Ancestral Tomb, As They Call Us, To Hold The Office For Three Hundred Years... He Has Been In Service As A Dragon For Two Hundred Of Those Years, But Still. He Is Coming To Meet Me Here Per My Request, As He Has Information Concerning A Local Claimant To The Title Of Red Knight. I Will Deal With The Issue Myself, Once Informed Of The Culprit's Location. Be Advised That I Would Appreciate Any Notification Of One Claiming To Be The Red Knight, As It Is Not A Title I Share To Upstarts."

>>234375
>>234376
>>234377
I turn my thoughts towards what Keddic told me via Phohn, reviewing who had the money... he claimed it sent back with Senth. I believe I shall have Words with him when I return. But from there my mind wanders to what The Red Comet said, concerning other champions for Lenryt's cause... under Other Dragons. She seems intent to insure that one way or another she can claim a champion once this civil war plays out, optimizing her chances that she can claim the right to expand the Mortal Coil. I received no word that I should simply withhold violence from those I meet, and considering they serve Dragons opposing Lubu, I would be wise to end them. I feel bothered that Lenryt did not inform me of the chance to serve other dragons...until I recall that I actually had past positive dealings with Lubu to build on, so I hardly had a choice, unless I wanted to waste unnecessary time gaining even the most basic trust.

>>234378
So... There are other champions? Well I cannot say that I am surprised, it would be unlike Lenryt to leave anything completely to chance. Though it seems that you know more of the situation than I do. If you wouldn't mind, perhaps I could accompany you for a time, So that we may continue to chat without further delaying your journey? I posit back, hoping for the chance to pluck the name of someone clearly tied to high circles. It seems his change in disposition behooves me, as he offers no rejection, simply walking along, letting the cloak fall back around him as the crowd subconsciously parts for him, while I wade through their mass. As we travel, time seems to stand still for a time, some few minutes passing with only silence passing before Burduko arrives, whizzing to my side at incredibly speed. He bows deeply to me before taking pace at my side. The Red Comet had briefly started, clearly recognizing a closing Deep Spawn, and surprised at the deference it is showing me.

>>234381
>>234382
Could you please not refer to me as Anathema, if possible? And if I may pry, what happened to the last you labeled such? I weedle, continuing to ply the pathway betwixt our minds. The Read Comet mulls over my queries for a moment, before giving his response.

"...The Last Anathema Was Deemed Too Hazardous, And Exposed. This Was Some One Hundred Thirty Years Ago. ...Why Does A Deep Spawn Serve You?"




What should my response be?
And do I have any more questions before following The Red Comet to his meeting with Jeagrezweistrik?
Or should I do something else?

>>234441
May as well tell him the truth. We managed to find a fragment of the Caged One, and delivered it to a Deep Spawn Administrator that we had met via an ancient mine. In exchange he granted us a boon of 50 Deep Spawn eggs and the chance to meet another Administrator to possibly gain more information about the Curse.

Also tell him we may have to go in the near future, as we have an appointment. That is the main purpose of this Deep Spawn we have- teleportation.

"Hazardous...how? I would like to know so I do not fall into the same trap." Look to Burduko and sigh. "I doubt I could keep any secrets from you...heh. Seems more and more I meet those that make my secrecy moot. He serves me because I came to an agreement with an...overseer of other Deep Spawn. I hope this does not cast me in ill light...although I have some idea that the Order is both aware of such things, and employs them from time to time?"

And, hoping to god we don't start a brawl right now: "The Radical AxeGod? Sounds quite strong...if I am not pressing an issue, do you know where his loyalties lie? Lubu could make fair use of such a wise and strong ally, as could I. But, what will you do to this usurper? I would think such a title is common, is it not? Anyone who wears red, thinks himself a knight would be quick to adopt such a title, would they not? And one last question: Where is it that you head after taking care of this Faux-Red Knight?"

"Hm? Ah yes.
I managed to locate a fragment of the entity located in the earth, known to those I have met as 'The Caged one'. I handed it over to a Deep spawn Administrator in exchange for a few services, the possession of my own deep spawn among them."
Wave it off like this is a regular occurrence for you.
"My life has been busy of late, hopefully I can learn more about just what is going on in the world."

Burduko has likely come to inform us that our blade is ready.
Prepare to teleport out in case the red comet does not take too kindly to our lateset bit of info.

We might be giving this stuff out too eaisly.

Tell Phohn to ward your 'mind' against any outside interference. Red will still likely be able to break through, but it's not really him I want to block. Tell him about it so that he does not get suspicious.

"More than one, actually, all bound to me personally. They were a reward of sorts, for returning an escaped shard of the entity the deep ones strive thanklessly to protect the surface from. A dubious reward I think, since I do not relish the further attention the bring me, but they have great potential, and have made some aspects of my life considerably easier.

...Say, does Bang's combat healing count as regeneration for the purposes of Mury's spawn's 'grant regeneration' ability?

And say, how does the Red Comet know of the Deep Spawn, anyways, let alone recognize one at a glance?

Bob!t/UKid4z5s 2010/09/26(Sun)22:04 No. 234541 ID: a76809
File 128556383949.jpg - (227.00KB , 900x900 , Paradox Knight Jeagrezweistrik The Radical.jpg )

>>234454
>>234464
>>234483
>>234515
I found a fragment of the Caged One, And I returned it to the deep ones, lest it escape. In Reward, I was granted Deep Spawn of my own I confide, my mind already following up with a change of focus.


Incidentally, this Deep Spawn, Burduko, Is capable of Teleportation. I have an upcoming appointment, And I wish to be sure I do not miss it.

My concerns fall on understanding ears, as The Red Comet divulges how he feels about my remarks.

"A great service to perform, removing an outlet for the Caged One.
And when duty calls to you, go without hesitation, I will not slow you."

Out walk continues once more in silence, Burduko at my side and ready for whenever Hieryou gets off his shift. Soon enough, something breaks the peaceful monotony, a bombastic musical cacophony begins to echo about, and I see people running, shouting out to friends that a Dragon has come. ...I feel a soul very nearly the equal to Lubu's striding within the city of Waltora.

And the Red Comet leads us straight towards it.

In short order I see him: I Small tomb in neon blues with wild whorls of color and stylization all over its frame, face lacking any feature save slits for sight, a prismatic glow from within. This resplendent and vibrant figure rides atop an equally flashy armored horse, a beast whose heart thuds with otherworldly energies as it approaches.

But what I notice most is the Axe.

An enormous weapon, a haft some nine feet long and an axe head three feet in length is a ludicrous weapon, and he wields it like a twig. The axe dancing in his hand draws the eye, it's head and details ever-shifting, as if not fully in this reality, a shield festooned with scores of emblems all brightly gleaming festooning his other arm. His gaze goes straight to The Red Comet, piercing the veil I pierced with equal ease, before flipping his axe up in the air, and holding it in reverse. For a moment, I see the shadow of strings running the length of his ever-warping weapon, when magic builds-

"Well HEEEERREE WE ARE."

He looks on My own form now, noting my companion Burduko, as I reel from the fact his axe vibrated so complexly that it generated a facsimile of spoken words. I see window pains still rattling from the sonic pressure Jeagrezweistrik exudes-as he speaks through his axe again.

"I see we're all BOOORN to be kings,
we're the princes of the uuuuniverse!"

Music continues to simply emanate like a fine mist from the Radical AxeGod, his lyrical comments still causing my form to vibrate in sympathy. The Red Comet seems content to say nothing... or maybe he speaks directly into Jeagrezweistrik's mind.




What should I say or do?

Clap, of course. This is quite the performance, especially only for an entrance. The Axe God deserves a round of applause.

"Here we belong, fighting to survive
In a world with the darkest powers"

Be careful: That song probably ain't for show. It's very likely he could amp it up, or sing a different tune, and vibrate you to pieces.

I wouldn't be surprised if his soul is actually encased in the Axe and not the armor.

Enhance whatever you choose to say with an small lyrical undertune. Just a bit of fun.

>>234541
"Hmmm, a Phonomancer... from what I can see, a master of the art. Skill is to be expected from one that is untouched by time, such eccentricity is surprising to behold. Then again, perhaps such a manner of speech has a special meaning for the owner of a rare magical art."

>>234541
If you can figure out how, play an accompanying tune to his own.

Hum dueling banjos.

>>234553
I think we lack a second hand to clap.

Also. Freddy as an Ancestral Tomb and a Dragon. FUCK YEAR.

Though I don't know what to do. Observe the performance? Play along? Form a rock-band with Dulu on drums, Red Comet on keyboard, Mordre with a guitar and Jeagrezweistrik as lead singer?

>>234541
>I see the shadow of strings running the length of his ever-warping weapon, when magic builds

>Radical AxeGod

>I see what you did there.

Anyway, sing with him and after the performance shake his hand. Ask him about what he knows of the Lenryt's game and what he thinks our chances are backing Lubu. Then carefully listen to what information he has on the upstart Red Knight, maybe mention we happen to know a fellow who goes by the tittle of Blue Knight and remark at the coincidence.

 

>>234564
Thisthisthisthisthisthisthis!

Sing in return, and sing the blessed song with him. And I know you can sing because that voice can do anything. Also, try to hit the bass rhythm from the song, too!

Wake the town, stage impromptu rock concert, Phohn up allies for anyone that wants to rock out with us!

And once he finishes:

"It's a kind of magic."

Oh and don't forget we have the collective experience of John, Paul, George and Ringo in us. We should be able to improvise a good performance.

>>234773
Jade Soul Band GO!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RnrXiaPVeHY
You know what to do

Bob and his everlasting like of Queen songs and left-handedness.

Seconding
"Here we belong, fighting to survive
in a war with the darkest powers"

This is kind of goofy to tell you the truth...

Must we become incredibly silly whenever the slightest opportunity presents itself? This is serious business! We are serious golem!

>>234855
No we're not. Do you see how many ham points we have?

Besides, the next bit sorta fits with us, we are fighting to survive, and against the darkest power (Weinsho, the bastard).

Besides Queen is the best.

>>234856

Here we belong, fighting for survival
We've come to be the rulers of you all

Check.

I am immortal, I have inside me blood of kings - yeah - yeah
I have no rival, no man can be my equal
Take me to the future of you all

Check.

Really, the only way this song could be more apt is if we were voiced by Christopher Lambert.

Bob!t/UKid4z5s 2010/09/27(Mon)20:44 No. 234964 ID: a76809
File 128564549117.jpg - (35.14KB , 445x634 , Freddie Fringe Benefit Bonus.jpg )

>>234564
>>234631
>>234645
>>234723
>>234729
>>234743
>>234773
>>234774
>>234795
>>234841
I reach out to the all the hero souls in my system, thinking of a rather irregular way to ingratiate myself with a Dragon and Paradox Knight. As I prepare to weave my voice in all the manner I can, I sense four responses... the Jade Soul Monks, consumed some time ago.... so it shall be. Soulfire belches as I draw every eye of the already enormous night-time crowd, and voices beginning as chants come streaming and blending out of my mouth, a melodious mixture, multiplying most madly, the words carrying with a sense of finality, as I speak, words twisting as thoughts coalesce and are channeled through the four souls.

"Here we belong, fighting to survive, In a War with the darkest of Poooweeeeers!!!

Thinking of Weinsho, I barely suppress my Heart, my flow of Blood Iron, as power ripples and warps, unsteady and threatening to buck in my grasp, as notes accompanying my lyrical proclamation begin to intermingle with Jeagrezweistrik's, complexifyng and spreading wider, the completely expressionless Dragon nodding vigorously. Almost unbidden, I continue, my next thoughts only half formed, yet carrying all the same.

"I am Immortal, I have inside me Blood of kings! I have no rival, no man can be my equal! Take me to the future of you aaaallll!"

[+11 HAM points, modified for importance of moment. New Total: 079 Next Bonus: 100]

Jeagrezweistrik has a response of his own.

"And heeere we are,
WE'RE THE PRINCES OF THE UNIVERSE!
Here we belong,
FIGHTING FOR SURVIVAL!!"

Jeagrezweistrik's axe surges, threads of almost existence proliferating wildly as his soul swells so brilliantly I can scarce sense anything else, my musical utterances inspiring something. I feel some sort of weight settling upon my form, as something shifts about the fours souls I channeled, leaving the Soul Nexus in my hand... and instead spreading themselves out along my Left Arm, using body and hand Soul Nexus as magical focus points to simulate....

I turn my Will inward, and set my form to flowing, a thudding beat beginning almost immediately as the power of Blood flows about.

TH-THUMP

I feel the added layer of false life encouraging the grafting souls... and knowledge begins to flow into my mind, a sense of understanding, of Mass Connection-more specifically, the moves from Jade Soul that each respective monk knew best in life.

Jade Fist:
-Signature move of the Jade Soul style, a direct gathering of Soul energy around the fist by means of expanding the soul itself to encompass more area than it normally would. This causes supernatural impact, compounding the fact it is used on a Siege Fist.
-The Soul field can somewhat ablate and negate magical defenses, in proportion to my own soul. Considering that it is ultimately slaved to the Soul Grave furnace containing several thousand souls, it can pierce considerable amounts of magic.

Ethereal Strike:
-A projection of energy, a replica of one's hand that is emitted as a projectile impact, possessing some of the Jade Fist's piercing ability, but little of its kick. The fact it can be used in rapid succession opens the options to which it can be applied.
-The projection has a range directly related to the originating source of energy, your Soul Furnace, and as such can reach ranges normally not considered feasible for the move, some several hundred feet before half the energy has dissipated, and more than a thousand before it completely decays.

Warding Palm:
-A gathering of energy for hardening, rendering the hand far more durable, if much less flexible while active.
-While under the effect of warding Palm, any magical attack that strikes the palm can be unraveled, most of its energy breaking up before even reaching your hardened hand.

Rending Grasp:
-A move reserved only for approved students, it has the built in condition that to work, the practitioner's hand must be in contact with the foe's body for one full second before the ability can be triggered.
-Once the condition has been met, the move allows for far amplified armor piercing to Jade Fist, in all areas in direct contact with the hand. If all magical protection is pierced, excess energy goes towards weakening the material being touched, allowing an omniruinous attack.

[To use Combat magic (Which the above abilities are), both the body and hand Soul Nexus are only devoted to magic, so no IG, or speed/defensive bonuses while actively employing Combat Magic.
Have fun.]


One more time, Jeagrezweistrik proclaims words echoing from his Axe so festooned with strings, As it feels half the town watches our exchange, The Red Comet eying me critically as the weight pressing into my body begins to recede, leaving behind a feeling of finality.

"We've come to be the rulers of your wo[/i]oooooorld!!"

As the crowds burst into confusion and ultimately cheering, The Red Comet's thoughts stream into my mind.

"Now I Hope You Realize That By Responding To His Word Magic,
You Have Agreed To Quest To Be A Dragon, Whereas He Just Approved You.
So You Are Now Officially, Publicly Proclaiming Your Intent To Strive For The Seat Of Dragon.
But You Of Course Already Kn- ...Ah."

Jeagrezweistrik the Radical AxeGod twirls his axe about as the music falls back to lower levels, the beat that seems to pervade all levels of existence still throbbing in the background, before he gestures to me?

"And by what NAME,
Do we know this prince to be?
What title would future ruler claim right nooooow?"

Burduko moves closer as I hear Phohn's voice, commenting Hieryou has returned to the Tyotworro Estates.




What should I say or do?

Ooh, I'm torn between an actual answer, going 'But, I was singing', and poofing because of meeting.

Ok, lets go with a mix of A and B.

"It’s a *snap* kind *snap* of magic *snap*
It's a *snap* kind *snap* of Magiiic *snap*
A kind *snap* of magic *snap*
One dream one soul, one priiiize One goal, one goooolden glances of what should be-" Look to The Red Comet with as much shock as we can muster on our metal face. "But, I just sang. The second song I have ever sung." Pause and turn to he of the most Radial Ax. "But...I am Mordre...Must I name myself now, or does that come later? And...my meeting requires my attention, as much as the song and the Quest demands of me."

And at a later date, we must attempt to use the Feasting Anima and the Beatles-Fist togeather.

Also, I have a feeling we are on our way to finding either Scars Of Yesterday or Killer Queen.

I dont think this is the kind of thing that can be doged or delayed and considering were dealing with people that could probably kill us lets not try that.

Oh man what, Dragon? Well, we might be able to swing that, sure. Maybe not.

When we finish the song bits, we should leave with a flourish and Burduko teleporting us home, we've got an appointment to keep after all.

Also, Word Magic, eh? Interesting. It'll probably make the title we choose quite important.

also we need to remember there are laws and stuff about being a dragon. like that not be the first to attack one we were hopeing to take advantage of.

Regardless of whether or not we take him up on this he needs to be answered now.

He probably would not think to highly of someone declaring themselves into a position of power and then running away.

On that note "Iron Blood Dragon", or something like that.

 

So, we could either become a Dragon through military gubbins, challenging and beating a Dragon, or becoming a living (hah) legend and getting a bunch of disciples. I hope there isn't any sort of time limit on this quest.

Also I'm suggesting King of the Impossible, Mordre of the Impossible, or something else that's a reference to Flash Gordon because I've got it stuck in my head and I think keeping with the Queen theme, even if it's not the same song, will give a bonus. And King of the Impossible sounds pretty awesome, and fits with some stuff we are/have done.

>>235008
Yes, well, we're not a Dragon, and it's rather unlikely that we'll be one soon. We should ask The Iron Mustache about laws when one is a Dragon, and when one is becoming a Dragon/fighting a Dragon.

Iron Blooded Dragon Mordre does sound pretty bitchin', by the way, whoever suggested that.

>>235018
[No really, Freddi-I mean Jeagrezweistrik is asking you what prospective Dragon title you are going to be striving for down any of the three paths. So, _____ Dragon Mordre the ____________ The more attuned to his nature in diction choice, the more quickly the title can become real, and leech of the ambient energy of thousands of years of belief by billions of lives in the power of those who hold it. Take that as you will.]

>(Emba)So I'm guessing our dragon title should resonate somewhat with our nature

>(TheBeardiestBob) Yup. Remember it would be your prospective title, it becomes real the more people that hear it, and adds to collective belief set of Dragon

A Dragon Title, eh?

I don't think this can be put off. Perhaps something to resonate with our nature, and resurgence from a now dead kingdom.

Unforgotten Dragon Mordre the Indelible...or something along those lines.

MORE IDEAS, guys.

>>235000
True, but we did make prior engagements that weren't 'Fuck yes, singing!' And I really don't know if we're suppose to say 'Gift Horse Dragon Mordre, the Self-Made' right now, or not.

And I actually kinda wanna sing our dirge for him, see how he likes it.

>>235027
It's not a song, despite the name.

It's a portrayal of the sounds of a thousand screaming voices in a howling wind, shrieking as if being painfully slaughtered by the most abominable nightmares able to be fathomed.

Or something. I forget the exact details beyond "Oh god, oh god, make it stop"

Huh...so...mhm...I suggest we start coming up with titles that we like for both our 'Dragon' nature and our 'The' nature.

Currently, we have:

'Gift Horse Dragon Mordre, the Self-Made'
'Unforgotten Dragon Mordre the Indelible'
'Iron Blooded Dragon Mordre'
'Mordre the Impossible' [He'll Save Every One of Us]

>>235036
Well, yeah. We can see how he likes it. I mean, it is a -little- death metal, but he might give us some hints on how to make it really jive, 'ya know?

>>235024
Yeah, I was talking to the guy who said
>also we need to remember there are laws and stuff about being a dragon. like that not be the first to attack one we were hopeing to take advantage of.
Saying that, since this is just a start and such, we're not one yet, probably unlikely to be any time soon, and can still use these laws to our advantage probably unless there are special laws for people who've declared they're going for a dragon.

Though I did mess the title bit up because I forgot the format! I'll make a proper one later, then, no queen reference I guess unless it's a good one as opposed to one off the top of my head at midnight. Iron-Blooded Dragon Mordre the Self-Made sounds good, but that self-made bit could use some more purple prose. What else is a good word for self-made?

"Unforgotten Dragon Mordre, The Dirge of Souls!"

Stomp your feet, plant your elbows at your sides, hand open, tentacles writing, and let the dirge scream across the landscape!

WRYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY

Oh yeah, and don't do the dirge. That would totally kill the mood man.

Enduring Dragon Mordre the Legend of Steel, perhaps. ...And hold off on the dirge I think, doesn't exactly fit the feel of things right now.

Guys, we have several titles already back home, Well of Souls being most prominent, though stuff like soulgrave of mosmordre and sword of the empire would also be fair game if you really want. If we are making this a true reflection of who we are, those titles should be represented.

Iron Blooded Dragon Mordre, the Well of Souls would be my vote.

>>235056
This is good. Changing vote to this.

Iron-blooded Dragon Mordre I like...

I don't want anything complicated to throw on the end there though. The Indelible sounds okay but I'm not sure it's really in tune with Mordre's nature.

How about the Devourer? Remember we can eat like the dickens. That would be:
Iron-blooded Mordre the Devourer.

>>235056
It sounds cool and all, but isn't "Well of Souls" a little too revealing of Modre's nature? Millions of people are going to hear this title remember.

>>235049
I -kinda- wann do this, you know, because it's awesome.

But I like 'Self-Made' because it's what we are and what we do. Mage Mordre and Golem Mordre both.

>>235056
A "Well of Souls" is apparently a technical term for something- we're not unique. It'd be like calling ourselves "Mordre the Magnetomancer". More than that, it would immediately announce our nature to anyone versed in that particular aspect of lore. Not really what we want, I think.

I would like our name to resonate with our aspect of eternal growth; if there's one thing that we have done since awakening, it's constantly gain in power, gathering ever more souls and modifying ourself to be always stronger, more capable. Perhaps "...the Ascendant"? It's vague enough to be nonspecific about what exactly we're ascending towards or to become, but at the same time it's quite descriptive. To be more explicit, "...the Augmented" could work.

And while "Unforgotten" is an awesome title, I'm not entirely certain that it's in line with what we've done; we're the one who doesn't forget, not the one whom others remember. Though I suppose that people don't really forget us, that's pretty tangential. "Enduring" is probably more accurate, and still an imposing name which references our origin. And the fact that we've lived through some ridiculous shit. More than that, it gives us a potential out for taking other people's souls- we're not eating them, we're giving them the opportunity to endure together with us, the Enduring Dragon.


So yeah, my current vote would be for "Enduring Dragon Mordre the Ascendant". Nicely references our past, our future, and our abilities all in one.

I just noticed something, but...wasn't 'the Red Comet' also in Ant Quest?

We have made no secret in this land that we are no ordinary ancestral tomb. We have explained ourselves as a construct based on the same concept, but housing many heroic souls. We can even back that claim up, and relate the achievements of the various heroes sustained forever within us, banded together toward a single purpose. Calling ourselves a Well of Souls reveals nothing which we have not already said about ourselves, and is more true to who we are than anything else we could chose.

>>235089
>We have explained ourselves as a construct based on the same concept, but housing many heroic souls.
No, we have explained our body as that concept, but claimed that we're piloting it remotely to most people. Including Lubu, I'll note. Additionally, there is a large difference between saying something to some people and explicitly including something in your title- because doing the latter, if we become famous, will not only give us away but will also inspire thousands of people to look up just what the hell a Well of Souls is. And they might not like it at all, considering that we do literally burn up people's souls to keep running.

>>234964
Our current goals already feed into becoming a Dragon or a Dragon equivalent anyway. As for a name choice perhaps Consuming Dragon Mordre the Timeless. The reason why we are The Consuming Dragon should be fairly obvious and we are the Timeless is because when Dorgrum spoke of our nature he called us a paradox, a new timeless being. If that doesn't work I'll throw my vote behind this poster's suggestion >>235077.

Wise Dragon Mordre, the Commanding Philosopher

Do people in LOD even KNOW that we are powered by thousands of souls?
Maybe we should keep quit about that...

>>235067
Suggested Indelible because it carries two implications: Hard to destroy, but also hard to erase (from knowledge/memory).

Thought it seemed a nice double meaning.

Oh good gravy. People shoot down Well of Souls for the implications, and then we have suggestions like Consuming and Devourer. THOSE raise obvious questions which there are unfortunate answers to. >_<

>>235091
I did not intend to imply that we change the "I am a mage" story. It was word choice going from a reality perspective, not a keeping the story straight perspective. Sorry for confusion.

I do want to point out that while "well of souls" is a term which one could look up, it does not mean anything incriminating. It is not the same thing as "soul furnace" or "I eat dead people". A well only means filled depths. We turned Lorgk's new crystal sword into a well of souls, after all.

And I can't stress the Word magic implications enough here. We have been called Well of Souls only by the most powerful entities we have encountered, and it is second only to "Mage" in how often we use it to refer to ourselves. It is What We Are.

>>235101
no, and we should keep it that way. Though to be fair, we are powered by one soul a month. the other thousands are just extra.

>>235128
Consuming/Devourer are titles that could easily be explained for our ability to eat shit that attacks us. Not specifically souls.

>>235131
>"So why are you the Consuming Dragon?"
>"Ah..."
>HANDS!
>"...oh."

>>235128
While I had no problems with your suggested tittle, I must say you're wrong in your implication that the Consuming and Devourer titles are more revealing. Mordre consumes in a variety of ways that aren't at all soul related. For instance his Feasting Vestments, Hands of Hunger, Immortal Genocide, and ability to consume any metal short of Lortoxite all involve eating of some type. It'd be rather easy to deflect any questioning by demonstrating any one of these and even if it were discovered we eat souls it wouldn't compromise our most important secret. This is as opposed to your tittle which straight up says that 'Mage' Mordre's Golem does house a collection of souls and then must raise the question how he got them into there and why. The logical progression from that is that "Hey he's a mage he must have put them in there" and then while we can go back and say it's because our people follow different customs about the soul it'd still have the common man look at us like some uncivilized foriegner with no respect for the dead every time they hear our name.

uh oh, well as soon as we tell it what we want our name to be we should apologize and leave for that meeting.

Is anyone else a little worried about this whole "attempting to become a dragon" thing? we are missing a lot of information about this kind of thing, and we have a lot of secrets to keep as well...I'm too tired to finish this thought argh

You know, I think this Dragon thing isn't just about what we've done, but what we want to be too.
And it should reflect our magehood as well, and something about our personality.

The Singular Dragon Mordre the Bombastic?

Anyway, updating our ideas, and I'm gonna slip them up between Dragon title and 'The' titles.

_____ Dragon:
Iron Blood Dragon
Unforgotten Dragon
Gift Horse Dragon
Enduring Dragon
Consuming Dragon
Wise Dragon
Singular Dragon
Hidden Dragon
Bombastic Dragon
Long-Dead Dragon
Old Dragon
Foreign Dragon

the ____________:
the Impossible
the Indelible
the Self-Made
the Dirge of Souls
the Legend of Steel
the Well of Souls
the Devourer
the Augmented
the Ascendant
the Timeless
the Commanding Philosopher
the Bombastic

>>235096
This one. I like this one.

>>235128
Good point on the more general nature of the well of souls bit. Nevertheless, while it is what we are, it is most definitely not what we claim to be- and the one claiming the title of Dragon here has to implicitly be Mordre the mage, even if it's actually Mordre the golem. At some point in the future we will doubtless be able to pull a Big Reveal and take the title for our own- possibly after growing our own soul into something genuinely Legendary- but until then, best to keep things on the down low even if it means a slightly less fitting title.

>>235151
Just for the irony that we are neither wise nor a particularly commanding philosopher, or for some other reason?

>>235150
>Hidden Dragon
I missed that one, and now I can't stop laughing. Because it's so fitting for our mage persona, and yet so referential. Can't really see how it fits our true self, though.

>>235157
Yeah, I came up with the Hidden Dragon one. Maybe we can have one be who we pretend to be, the other who we are?

But the reason I like 'Wise Dragon Mordre, the Commanding Philosopher' is because it's who we intend to be, like we told Kyorto. We are going to forge a new empirer, not feared but loved. The Conquring Hero. Which might make for a good title.

>>234997
[Could Be....]

>>235078
[Yup.]

>>235008
I find my very first thoughts not being how I could or could not escape this situation, or what title to claim, but squarely focused on the laws involved with the title Dragon. Not being able to attack anyone unless they take the initiative lest I run into pervasive legal troubles does not appeal to me... and I realize that this would only apply once I fully gain the title, not simply when I proclaim my desire to strive for it. Somewhat calmer with my primary concerns assuaged.

>>235025
>>235038
>>235053
>>235067
>>235077
>>235128
As titles swirl and riot in my mind, a single set of words seems pulled forth from me, flitting through the supercharged air.

"Indelible Dragon Mordre The Ascendant. That is the title I shall strive for."

I hear thunder crackle without seeing any storm, the ground rumble without threat of earthquake, and the Words I spoke, the Name I chose, as Jeagrezweistrik's axe thrums with power. I see his expressionless face turning to regard the still hidden Red Comet beside me for the briefest of moments, before he continues speaking.

"And so here we all stand,
Destined to be Dragons,
The Summit and the Climber, standing stroooong!"

Jeagrezweistrik begins to speak to the crowd now, the cadence of the music accompanying his words shifting and warping as he turns away from me, and The Red Comet's words infiltrate my mind.

"If You Wish To Leave, Now Would Be The Time,
While Jeagrezweistrik Is Yet Distracted Plying The Crowd...
I Sensed Some Other Words In Your Mind,
A Place You Must Be."

In the half instant where I realize I could be meeting with Hieryou, I find Phohn already relaying my desire to Burduko, who places a hand on my side-

I am in the Tyotworro estates, now standing before a Hieryou only just restraining himself from drawing his discreet blade, now relaxing by increments at my presence. He says nothing, as I summon Vandgurd and Zelgoto, the two giving their words on what the Ash Dragon did, their simple presence outside a building never outright claimed to have Oz or myself within, and Jioga's wrath smiting them both. Hieryou listens to their testimony with only a few probing questions, nodding as he listens. Finally the report by my two Deep Spawn ends, and Hieryou finally speaks to me.

>"....I believe you. You ultimately acted to deceive by omission a Dragon, but you and your minions committed no illegal act in this function. So it looks like you do have a valid complaint against the Ash Dragon."

Hieryou tilts his head to the side as he continues.

>"So what do you want me to do about this? Even with the testimony, without the Dragon in question here I cannot rouse the full legal might that could be brought to bear.... so to what end do you tell me this? What do you try to accomplish in the here and now?"

Hieryou yawns after his pointed question, reminding me of the severe earliness of the morning, as he awaits my response.




What should I say or do?

Pause for a moment.

"Well, nothing need be done right this moment, necessarily. That you have heard the complaint and will keep it in mind until a later date, that is enough. Many thanks for your time... I apologize, the great distance tends to make it harder to perceive it proper, you see. I merely want it known that the breach of law was made, that is all. True action can wait for a more opportune time... Perhaps I can have some form of written document that you have questioned my fellows and found their testimony truthful?"

>>235181
This. Then we should ask the deepspawn what the effect black steel would have on them.
If it's safe I don't see why we don't fight them.

"I mostly want to see that justice is done, I have a great fondness for those around me, as I do hope they themselves would attest. being dishonorably attacked for their guard duty is something I find distasteful."

pause for a bit, make sure this next part is done right, communicate with Deep Spawn to leave

"If I may have a moment Hieryou, I wished to apologize again for my severe cultural blindness and deafness of earlier. Also, feel free to ask me to leave, but I did want to ask about your companion, a wolf I could best call it as I never learned his or her name. But if you don't mind me waxing poetic, it reminds me of someone I had to leave behind in these ventures, a little... well not so little anymore creature I call Moss, met him awhile back... [story of moss goes here]"

Well, as memory serves one of the ways to become a dragon is to challenge and best one in a duel.
Asking for one with the title as prize could cement our status as a dragon, if we decided to become one.

I'd rather not duel Ash Dragon Jioga. Ultimately he is Lubu's ally and by extension our ally. We might need his help to unify this land.

Tell Hieryou that there is a challenge in place between yourself and the Ash Dragon, however it is not a martial challenge. You would like to arrange a forceful reminder to him of that fact in order to prevent any further conflicts or rash actions.

See if there's any night-shift estate retainer you could learn some Land of Dragons lore from until it's time to go to Korgotyo's school.

>>235203
Bang was authorized to kill his dood, I don't see why we can't. Besides, look at this from Lubu's perspective. He loses a dragon but gains an immortal dragon.

>>235181
Agree with this.

>>235189
Agree with this.

>>235203
Agree with this.

Bow humbly and thank him for his time. Make note that there is a rocking consert going on - and inform any of our allies that are awake and not in talking diststance with Phohn what just happened. And try to talk to Mordreden with Phohn again, see if they're awake. If not, and if Ulzrick is awake, have him relay the message. And relay the message to anyone asleep. Then gather the Monster Party, and any one of our friends to rock out until brawl-time at the Chain School.

And, while we're gathering the Monster Party, try to combine the Feasting Anima and the Jade Fist and Rending Grasp while we're alone.

Oh yes, and I don't agree with killing the Ash Dragon for two reasons: Lubu loses a powerful ally. We could not actually win, or would be hard-pressed to win any Dragon fight. We would have to be very cunning to actually eat that soul, because we'd have to talk to and convince said soul that this si a good idea.

Also, if we fight him, we wouldn't get the powers of a Dragon, just the name.

Personally, I'm wondering what 'Inedible Dragon' will take the form of...Does it mean we'll start tasting like Fugo?

>>235215
'Indelible' Dragon

in·del·i·ble/inˈdeləbəl/Adjective
1. (of ink or a pen) Making marks that cannot be removed.
2. Not able to be forgotten or removed

>>235215
Also, agreed, we should not kill him, but instead subdue him with overwhelming power (AHHAHAHAHAH OH CRAP I CRACK MYSELF UP)

We are gonna need a Keddic brand string of Epiphanies here.

hmmmmm

Pristine soul on Soul matrices to gain understanding of crafting procedure?
Like gaining basic soul magic and golem craft competency without using a Lenryt Boon.

Also, idea.

You could teleport back to Lubus place with Budruko, make a earth padgoda, come back, make another padgoda and then teleport the lot of you there.

If Oz is not ready to come, you can just keep moving on the padgoda until he is ready, then PORT!.

>>235263
Too many variations on the earthen structure. Distribution of nutrients in the soil might throw it off, even, or they might have a somewhat different mineral blend that results in a nice red dirt over there but we've got a brown one here or something.

I suggest we pop out our ammo, reload our hooks if we haven't, magnetomance it full again, then magnetomance them into a big box shape, using another reload or two if needed. We can run out of town and look for metals if we need to resupply.

Well he did just say 'some sameness' here's to hoping it does not have to be exact.

>>235263
Ok, Falcon, why would we need to do this? I'm just wondering.

>>235447
Just in case the dragon shows up and decides to mess things up for us.

Or in case ANYTHING happens and we need to get out quickly. Then we could simply port to the palace.

Also, if Oz decides that he will do it, we port and save time.

not a necessity, just a convenience/precaution.

>>235451
But, we can do that any way. We have a Lenryt Box at the palace. We could, at any time, cut and run back to the palace.

>>235452
We don't have a box HERE!

As far as I know, we would need a box at the destination AND the departure point.

If I am wrong, then that is great and we save time. Unfortunately, I doubt I am wrong.

As I understand it, we and Burduko could cut and run, but everyone else couldn't, without the box. We'd need a box to transport everyone else.

>>235454
We don't need a box.
The box is just fancy and awesome.

He said we needed some kind of 'sameness'. That lends itself to anything, it's simply that a room would be better for several reasons.
I believe that if we have simply a patch of ground leveled and has a design on it that makes it distinct from the surroundings, we could use this to port.
This method would usually be impractical because we have to make the other teleporter and by the time we do that the patch may have been covered or weathered.

The only reason I am suggesting the pagoda is that if we use it at all, it would be in the near future. So there would not be much time for change to occur via environmental factors or otherwise.

>>235453
Shh! Bob might have forgotten that.

Anyway, I do want our Pagoda back, and we could try to make some teleportation boxes out of our ammo...possibly with Murhyihal...mhm...

We could send Murhyihal and Burduko to copy a Lenryt Box.

>>235460
I suppose it depends on the amount of sameness required. Perhaps as Burduko grows in strength, the level of sameness needed will decrease?

>>235465
That's my guess.

>>235460
No, boxes are easy. I do not want to chance teleporting on something not 120% the same as the other connecting points. I don't want to reenact 'The Fly' with all of our allies. Boxes are easy to make 'same'. 90 degrees each side, use the same metal. We can boost our megnetomancy, or use Murhyihal to craft boxes, perfectly.

>>235467
I rather hope it won't end up like The Fly. I assumed that it would just fizzle, wouldn't work at all if it wasn't same enough. Or, at least, I assumed Burduko would notice and tell us "Yeah shit ain't gonna work right, continue y/n?"

>>235479
That is pretty much what I was going to say.

since our porter is a living being and not a computer, I think he can tell us if it will work or not.

>>235479
I think we should ask Burduko. We haven't really bro'd with him like we have Phohn or Aggrocrag so I still feel a bit wary of him.

Bob!t/UKid4z5s 2010/09/28(Tue)21:26 No. 235549 ID: a76809
File 128573438994.jpg - (157.90KB , 1200x1600 , Chaining Calamity.jpg )

>>235467
[Currently Murhyihal is to weak, relatively speaking, to use your rounds as the basis for making identical boxes. Conversely, it could be that Burduko is too weak, the amount of Sameness he demands still too high.]

>>235465
>>235466
[Completely accurate.]

>>235463
[Me? Forgotten your teleport box locations? Pssh, they're obviously still where the started at, as you haven't moved them. ...Or maybe Mordre did, while you were playing Keddic...]

>>235460
[Actually, you kinda do. The sheer degree of sameness required is far more of a difficulty to achieve than you may be inferring. Lenryt saved you a huge hassle.]

>>235454
[This is correct.]

>>235261
[Hah, to just spontaneously generate that, would take 3 Pristine souls, but yes, even that is possible.]

>>235181
>>235182
>>235189
>>235213
I step forward as I speak, looking to ply the legal route as deeply as possible for the coming Dragon Jioga. My words are eased and slightly muted due to the lateness of the night (Senth and Oz are both sprawled passed out in the open sand yard of the Tyotworro estate, having retired from another impromptu brawl as a culmination of their reunion.), as I see Dulu moving up to one of the entrance-ways, lending a non-physical ear to our words, so that Phohn may translate for him.

"Well, nothing need be done right this moment, necessarily. That you have heard the complaint and will keep it in mind until a later date, that is enough. I merely want it known that the breach of law was made, that is all. True action can wait for a more opportune time, but I wonder if I could have one thing... Perhaps I can have some form of written document that you have questioned my fellows, And found their testimony truthful, as wells as what was said, generally speaking?"
>"Certainly. You have a legitimate legal complaint, so this does fall under the jurisdiction of one of my jobs. The fact the accused is a Dragon complicates things, but I have familiarity with the power of bargaining tools. You shall have your written assessment."

Hieryou begins walking to a small desk at the side of the room, pulling out a stand for writing, fine brushes and stark ebony ink, pre-stamped paper bearing a seal I presume judicial in origin. The Iron Mustache sits and begins to write without further ceremony, and his over-sized and heavily boned wolf pads to his side, curling beside his feet for a moment, one eye still lazily locked on me. I make a noise akin to a throat clearing, as I begin speaking again.

"If I may have a moment Hieryou, I did want to ask about your companion, A wolf I could best call it as I not yet learned his or her name."
>"..Mohbo."
"As you say. But if you don't mind me waxing poetic, It reminds me of someone I had to leave behind in these ventures, A little... well not so little anymore creature I call Moss, met him awhile back..."

I recount a brief description of my travels and experiences with Moss, the living wood beast with a stone heart, a playful companion I had grown accustomed to. He does not stop writing, but I hear Hieryou chuckle twice, soft yet echoing off the interior of his armor, at some particularly endearing quirk of Moss being described. It takes at best guess a half hour, long after I have fallen silent again, but Hieryou produces a carefully written and blotted manuscript, dated and signed, concerning the damning testimony that he, as one who can See truth, verified while recording it, heard, concerning Ash Dragon Jioga. So long as violence can be avoided, this would be considered one of the most daunting weapons to bring, as I note Hieryou writing a log entry into a massive ledger, recording the work he just penned and its nature for archival purposes. He nods to me, as he and Mohbo march away, looking to finally get some rest.

With everyone else but Dulu asleep, and the Golemslain immediately retreating as my gaze falls on him, I find myself with no one to talk to and nothing to do, and resign myself to waiting for morning, at least to give the appearance of sleep and inactive periods, the most vexing part of my guise. Dawn comes slowly, but I rise several minutes after Oz awakens, idly trying to kick away a sleeping Senth that discreetly made his way across the sand, missing as Senth teleports away, yawning as he sits up, pulling out Keddic's pipe and packing it with more of the green herb that he seems to constantly inhale. Once both have fully risen for the new day, I finally begin to move, rising as my head rotates as if to scan the surroundings. I say good morning to Oz and Senth, before the Breaker sets Senth the challenge of remaining untouched as he fights the Deep Spawn. I see him dodging with ease-until Burduku enters the fray with Velada at his side, and Senth's amorphous, warping form reverts to normalcy, his Tractomancy shut down. I see Vandgurds multiton fist descending like an avalanche, Senth's hand slithering up even as his form whips through the air oddly.

His fingertips touch Vandgurd, and the Deep Spawn is spun about, his body twisting through the air with wild abandon as Senth slips between flailing limbs like a snake, trying to put distance between himself and the duo of Velada and Burduko. I see a grin on his sleepy face, though I could not say if it is any different than the absentminded smile he always wears. Shortly Bagrom, accompanied by Hieryou and Edgo, now dressed in far finer vestments than the raggedy clothes he bore when last I saw him. His body doing notably better, recovering with a speed that while surely not natural is not directly visible (unlike Bang's rapid regeneration, or that of the Deep Spawn) Oz joins me in moving to meet with Bagrom and his familial retinue, as Senth continues to be a writhing snake, his monkey-like tumbles and evasions keeping him just a hair's breadth away from pulverization as he continues to turn Deep Spawn upside down, now steadily working his way towards the hive of Velada. Bagrom begins speaking, and out of politeness I turn my skull fully to face him.

>[Bagrom]"Master, I wish to begin by telling you of what I fought in the Grab Bag Tournament of the Grand Gainer. A brave farmer, who surrendered without a fight was my first foe. My second was a practitioner of the Fire Flesh style, and I payed the price one must pay to touch and ultimately defeat them. My third was a Fluid Fist practitioner, but with the application of some mid-range Jade Soul techniques, I ended the fight swiftly, still recovering from the burns. My fourth fight was a practiced veteran, a man far larger and stronger than eye that thoroughly pummeled me before I was able to finally harm him with the aid of... well, of Ghost Hand."
[Oz]"Really? And how did you employ it, how did you tap it?"
>"I... I was beginning to pass out, my foe having me in a submission hold, and in that semi-delirious state, I think I forgot that my hand was gone. Then I was trying to fight off my foe, and the ghost of my hand just went straight into his flesh, reaching for organs-"
"Yup, that's it. Most of Ghost Hand is based around that feeling that the limb is still alive."
>"Why did you not tell me?"
"Won't mean as much unless you come to it yourself, and it has to mean a whole damn lot. Go on."
>"..Well, my fifth fight was my final. It was when I faced Keddic-"
"Right, Senth talked about that, you healed Mordre's fellow, took a dive? Eh, you had a chance to use Ghost Hand, my teaching are starting to take root."
>"As you say, Master Oz."

Bagrom now turns to briefly face Hieryou, before turning towards me.

"I hear that you have evidence, even a written declaration concerning the Ash Dragon, who you say is on his way hear, was that not so?"
"Well, I do not know how long he will take, But ultimately I imagine he shall come here."
>"...After the Master, then, well-"
"OY!! SENTH! TAKE A BREAK!"

Oz's roar cuts our conversation short, as the enormous muscled man with metal hands turns about, facing Bagrom with an open smile.

"Well, we're already wasting time, let's get you practicing, right now. Get in there and face the Deep Spawn, Mordre's got one that can do healing now, hell one that can grant passive healing, and you need to start recapturing that feeling of Ghost Hand right now. Get to it!"
>"I..! Yes!"

After a brief and spluttering moment, Bagrom dashes off to take Senth's place fighting the Deep Spawn. ...I wonder how the man from Trollingwood fared in hunting down Velada and Burduko... Edgo and Hieryou both step forward in the sudden absence of the main family member. Edgo is the one who speaks first.

>[Edgo]"...I must admit concern, guest of this house, concerning the recent events around your presence. Having a Dragon that could bring his wrath down on this house... I would ask what you intend to do."
"To avoid violence, as it need not come to it. But if it absolutely must, if it becomes inevitable, I will do everything I can to take the fight away, Preserving your home to my best capabilities."
>"....Then that is all I needed to hear. Thank you for your time."

Edgo bows, he and Hieryou departing while I finally spy Dulu, following a servant out with a late breakfast. As Senth, Oz and Bagrom feast in a brief respite from their riot with the Deep Spawn, I realize that the time for speaking with Korgotyo nears. I posit this to Oz, and the moment the meal is completed I find myself with Bagrom on my right, Senth on my left as we all follow after Oz, now marching directly towards the Chaining Calamity school, speeding up when Korgotyo's towering form waves. The Deep Spawn that trailed behind me as a third group to our train pile in after us as Oz immediately breaks into rough salutations, Korgotyo barely managing to get out a request for the Deep Spawn and my other companions to join the school in their practice, as it is all elder students. As Oz buried Korgotyo in a torrent of words and questions, friendliness weaponized in his grasp, I turn to face the top students of the Chaining Calamity School.

The uniform is rust and brown, simple, yet starkly defined colors. Other than these vestments, not a single other item of apparel adorns any of the students. In contrast to this, no two hold the same chains. One holds a length some ten feet long, each link as thick as his wrist, wrapped over a shoulder and held lightly. Another has a pair, thin and ever so slightly barbed lengths he winds about his forarms, like coiled springs ready to leap forth. Another has lengths of chain with clasps and rings, several pieces that look to form a chain net, when interlocking. Everywhere I look, a different format, and while many sweat, none falter at the sight of the Deep Spawn.

There are ninety five students in this so-called advanced population, eleven Deep Spawn (not all of whom are combat oriented), and the duo, Bagrom and Senth.



What should I say or do?
How should I arrange this sparring session, considering the resources available to me?
Should I just let Oz speak with Korgotyo as he wills, or should I try to direct him towards the match he desired before he potentially bores Korgotyo with his onslaught?

>>235549
As Korgotyo is (presumably?) the senior instruction of the school hosting this event, it would be polite to allow him to determine the format of the sparring, at least initially. That said, it would probably be a good idea to start out slow, letting each side get a feel for one anothers' capabilities in a series of one on one light matches, before eventually escalating to larger engagements which test teamwork and tactics as well as style. Based upon how the first two go, you might eventually try an event with everyone participating, teams determined by rough skill identified previously. Deep spawn and students need not be on opposing sides during these events, since after all working with unexpected allies of unknown capability is a vital skill for any warrior.

Let Oz say whatever he wants; you've practically arranged his match for him already, as he should be well aware. If he's not going to take it at this point it's hardly your fault, and he doesn't need you to outline things.

During the sparring, if you identify any students of particular skill or interesting style, you might consider giving them an invitation to travel with you, should they wish it. Ultimately one must test themselves against the school of life in order to truly excel, after all; surely at least some of the students here would be interested in gaining some experience at the side of an adventure magnet like yourself.

You might consider speaking with Korgotyo and/or Oz about the arrangement of the various matches, treating the Deep Spawn as your own "students", since you know their capabilities the best, and sharing their particular talents and traits so that they might be best matched up with the other students. Visibly acting as a teacher/mentor figure to your spawn might be a little strange but it would definitely bear up the idea that you espoused to Korgotyo yesterday that they are their own creatures, with their own souls, and not mindless slave constructions that you don't care about. Would give a good impression. Also might make Oz like you more, since it's clear that he values good, personalized teaching- recall his disdain for the one-size-fits-all Jade Soul style.

Have Phohn ask Dulu if he wishes to participate in some fightan.

You should probably quickly apologize to Oz for the while 'speaking in your mind thing that led up to this without your permission' thing. Maybe in the vein of "I did you wrong my newfound friend, and I hope you can forgive an old man's oversight and disrespect... plus, this set of fights and sparring should be fun!"

>>235636
I was actually hoping that this might be a massive battle between Korgotyo and his students verses Oz, Senth, Bagrom, us, and our Deep Spawn. But tournament style sparring secessions and small teams sounds fun too.

Before the sparring starts:
Make sure Mothbern and Nihilino won't kill anyone. Get Burduko to walk around the arena so that he can teleport anywhere within. Ask all the Deep Spawn to tactically analyze each student's appearance along with the chain(s) they carry, have them share their conclusions and assumptions with Sadronm and ourselves. Have Phohn ring up Dulu and ask if he wishes to join us.

Am I the only one a little...depressed as to how poorly our combat oriented Deepspawn are performing? Seems like the only thing we hear about them is how they get pounded on in spars (though I suppose in Nihilino and Mothbern's cases, the fact that they hold back the full lethality of their abilities probably plays a significant part).

>>235806
Then again, maybe its just the people they've been fighting. Jioga's just pissing me off after what happened to Vangurd and Zelgoto.

>>235811
Our spawn are still rather inexperienced, not to mention the fact that they lack the crazy amount of restrictions that regular deep-spawn have on themselves.

In time, they will most likely be more effective at what they do, and not get pulped as easily as they have been (granted, the have only been pulped by something stronger then thenselves).

It's time we tested the full capabilities of our healing spawn. Allow Zel to go full lethal on his next opponent (make sure you ask first!) and have our healer spawn be on the ready. If Zel is still getting pounded, let him use his lesser spawn, and if that doesn't work, let our enhancer pump him the fuck up.

Do this in progressive stages, healing him between each one. LET'S GIVE THESE BOYS A LESSON.

Ask him how lethal are you allowed to be. Then give Sandronm full control over the course of he spar.

STIM PACK all of them though and pump Regen on Vadguard. HE SHALL BE THE TANK!


MORDRE! OBSERVE THIS FIGHT CLOSELY! SEE EVERYTHING THERE IS TO SEE AND INCORPORATE THEIR STYLES INTO THE SABLE EXECUTIONER!

I want to use those 3 P.Souls, but then if shit hits the fan we would be screwed. Ah well.

Also.
HECK YEA! MORDRE MASTER OF THE LEFT HAS ARRIVED!

Maybe you could fight Senth... with your new magic null ability it would be hard for him to win

Note: Ask Senth for the money and the pipe, please?

But yeah, let Korgotyo lead us.

>>235811
The major problem is we're in the Land of the Dragons. Everyone here seems to know several ways to kill a man with Mass Connection badassery.

However, they have been constantly fighting a Living Legend, so they may be slowly powering up. It's just hard to notice when fighting against such...over powered individuals.

Anyway, have us and our 'students' bow and await orders. Talk to Dulu about what he thinks about all this, too, try to be Bros in a friendly, old-teacher manner if possible.

>>235806
mass connection is a mix of soul and will magic i think, and soul magic is super effictive against everything. deep spawn as well.

Ah yes. Money from Senth please.


Lets see now... how could we improve our spawn in a short period of time....

FEED THEM

Feed them souls and/or bodies of fallen foes.

Not in LotD of course. That's for when we get back and after we get Kyorto's skins.

>>235883
can they eat?

>>235897
I would be surprised if they couldn't. At the very least, the ones with discernible mouths should be able to. Nothingness guy can probably eat souls or energy.