Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)17:13 No. 123922 ID: c593ec
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The scene lingers with me sometimes, though I cannot understand why.

I awake slowly, feeling unrested.
I feel... so hot.
There is a great pressure in my chest, as if something is holding me down.

>>123922
...Is Dompag sitting on you?

Sick again, Muschio?

Greet finesse.

You've grown boobs again, boss. Sorry to say it.

did you get sick from swimming in the river

You are not an early bird.

>>123929
He's not a bird anyway

Did you get poisoned again? You've got to build up a tolerance to that stuff, man. Either that or get a food tester.

Is Finesse fondling you?

you may want to wake up and examine your surroundings...
Or at least yourself..
See if you CAN get up...

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)17:29 No. 123950 ID: c593ec
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I didn't feel sick last night.

On me? Why would WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT

>>123950
OH GOD WHAT IS IT

>>123950
it's just tislomer trying to wake you up, boss.

HUG IT. Rush hug it, you can surprise tackle it to the ground and get the upper hand.

Scream
Throttle unknown figure
Demand answers

>>123950
Oh god, did we bleed into another Quest?! Find Tom! Tom will protect you!

WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT

Coda! Stop that this instant!

KICK IT. PUNCH IT. DO SOMETHING. ANYTHING!

>>123953
I suspect this, try not to scare her.

punch it, roll of bed, run for your life...
I'm assuming you aren't naked of course...

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)17:43 No. 123972 ID: c593ec
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>"Boss! Look! I hadda show you this! I got this idea an' I taped a knife to my head, so NOW, if like, someone breaks in here and then they try to kiss me? NO WAY. KNIFED!"

...

>"...Pretty neat, huh?"

>>123972
...

Ask "But.. what if I want to kiss you?" just to mess with her and get her back for scaring you

Tell Tislomer that that's going to prevent her from getting kisses from people she likes though. Also if she trips it's gonna get someone hurt.

>>123972
...Tislomer, please don't wake me up by shoving a knife in my face.

"Uh... yes, that's very well and good, but a knife is better suited as a weapon of the hand, not the head."

...

Wait, what?

>>123972
Awwww how cute! Tislomer thinks she's a unicorn!

"Pardon me, but who tried giving you kisses you didn't want that forced you to learn from that lesson?"

Put if you attack people with your face.. what will you do with your hands? And what about when Willful wants a hug?

wait... what?!

you might want to let her know she scared you and that you were THIS close to headbutting her...

and that it'd have been no good if you did...

...I guess dealing with disfigurement is a traumatic thing. Probably shouldn't be too surprised by occasional manic episodes while she gets on top of things.

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)18:00 No. 124003 ID: c593ec
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"Did... someone try to force you to kiss them?"
>"No. But you can never be too careful!"
"I'm not entirely sold on this idea. What if you want a kiss?"
>"Boss I have a boyfriend now."
"...I know, Babrakus. I wasn't asking if I c-"
>"And he kisses me all the time so I just don't wear this."
"But what if you trip or run into someone? Knives are meant to be held, not worn!"

>"You're just jealous you didn't think of it."
...
>"Anyway I gotta go! Oh yeah, and Finnie said she has something for you in the hall!"

Well she's chipper at least, are you wearing pants?

>>124003
I think you may want to give a direct order to Tislomer to remove that knife before she hurts someone.

Then go find out what Finesse wants.

>>124003
Finnie is still after your dick something fierce so be wary of whatever she wants to show you. She might just be in the hallway naked or something who knows.

>>124003
Well, at least she's happier now. It's almost like she never got her face burnt off!
She's Tislomer again! The only problem with that is... she's Tislomer. Again.

>>124003
heheh... some things never change ehh boss?

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)18:12 No. 124020 ID: c593ec
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...yes, I suppose it's good that she's feeling well. We were all rather worried about her accident but since then she and Babrakus began a relationship and she's seemed very upbeat since then. I'd say she's back to her old self but I think she might be even happier now.
The other day she not only cleaned the workshop by herself but also redecorated it using paint she borrowed from Babrakus. She said that now even though it's still just one room it will look like two and everyone knows which side is hers so they know "not to touch any stuff".

In any case I'm certainly glad she's feeling... better.

The attack the other day really shook a lot of us. This is no ordinary adventurer we're dealing with.

Give her a big hug and tell her you're happy she's happy
You can cry a little but not so much, you fag

Poison traps, staff with immunities? Also, have you seen Ash recently, or is she still out?

Oh right, that guy.

We better find him because he stole something from us.

we also uh..better recap on what he stole

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)18:21 No. 124030 ID: c593ec
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No, thankfully he didn't get away with anything. Tislomer's valiant efforts stopped him from stealing... something.

I go out and meet Finesse, who has prepared the map on the mess table.
"Finesse, may I see that amulet again?"
>"Sure."

Whatever this is, the strange intruder was certainly eager to get his hands on it -- or perhaps whoever had hired him. Unfortunately I have no way to know who it is seeking this item, nor why. I found it in the small chest near the door when this was still Red Fang's dungeon, a small string necklace with an amulet carved from what appears to be os -- bone, I mean. It seemed wholly unremarkable then, and in truth it still does, but there must be something special about it for it to be the sole target of a raid like that one.

Could it be a mannikin?

It's not a mannikin is it? Did Finesse figure anything out about it?

>>124030
Throw it at the monster portal and see what happens.

>>124030
Is it a mannikin?

>>124030
DO NOT THROW IT IN THE PORTAL! Ridder might know what it is! Take it with you when you visit him.

>>124030
It looks kinda like a mask if you hold it right.. two eyeholes see? But the masked attacker have a much different mask...

Also boss may I point out that his mask had only one eye and was half black. I think its kinda creepy the connotations there no? I suspect some kind of wizard or sorcerer, creepy buggers they are.. delving into things decent people shouldn't think about too much.

But I think in order to properly combat such a threat properly we need our own magi no? You did mention that we should acquire a magic caster or sorts a while back didn't you?

>>124030

It's a little concerning that something was of interest to a powerful individual right in our home and we knew nothing about it. It might be time to try and learn about the history behind this location in case there are any other nasty surprises.

>>124030
Can't you still just touch it to the portal to see if it's a Mannikin, without throwing it in?

Good thing we... persuaded Babrakus into the relationship, Boss.

Also, visiting Ridder might be a good idea.

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)18:29 No. 124047 ID: c593ec
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I can't visit Ridder until I have a lead. I don't want to leave the base for that long unless I've got some clue of what's going on.

And it's certainly not a mannikin. I tried it again to be sure, but I'm pretty sure I tried it as soon as we got the monster portal working.

But it must have some special properties.
I need to find out who's after this.

And yet, I think I already know.
This was a careful, targeted strike. They knew what they were looking for and how to find it. Whoever was staking out my dungeon earlier -- the individual I meant to poison -- was surely casing it for this invasion. So whoever my unseen adversary is, I've little doubt they are ultimately behind this.

Could be that collector. You really need to get some technical help with this, where is Ash?

I hear there is an old Volto that studies magic in Sepia Town. Why not ask him~

>>124047
Could it be someone who knew Red Fang? They might want the necklace for sentimental reasons, or maybe it's some kind of soul container for ressurection purposes.

I dunno. I'm thinking it was the High Roller. I don't like the way that guy looked at you, way back when.

It's likely part of a ritual or connected to something rather large and foreboding. Even the original poster back when Red Fang owned this place it could be related.

I'm not so sure the intruder was related to the individual talking to you as well. The magic the offender demonstrated did not look like something of this world or rather anything discovered yet. Could be related to demons. Red Fang may have struck a deal with demons and that necklace is a phylactery or some crazy bullshit.

>>124055

If it was the high roller, then there's a good chance it is somehow connected with the other pieces in his collection. If so, that at least gives us a start on trying to determine the significance of the amulet.

>>124060

Neither the necklace, tapestry or dungeon itself really seemed appropriate to Red Fang. It seems reasonable to assume that they were here when he first arrived.

>>124047
I doubt it's your adversary. They seemed to be doing recon.

This guy knew your place inside and out... Or at least well enough to run in, look for something, and run out.

This amulet is just plain ol' important.

Is Tislomer actually massively disfigured?

We need magical expertise for this one. Perhaps Ridder knows where to look?

Presumably this place had a master before Red Fang. Perhaps this is one of their leavings. That assailant may even have been associated with whoever that was!

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)18:52 No. 124085 ID: c593ec
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The High Roller? Unlikely. He's wealthy enough to have just bought it off me, and I would never have known its significance. Whoever wanted this was taking no chances.

>"The King couldn't have done this..."
"Rimontaggio? Never. Besides, he would have gone straight for the Princess, not some worthless trinket."

>>124041
>>124060
Indeed.
"If this man did jump through a portal then he must be a capable sorcerer. I've only seen that kind of magic once before, practiced by one particular individual. If I'm looking for a list of suspects, or at least people who may have taught the suspect, then I should seek him out."
Finesse nods quietly.
"However, if this amulet does hold some arcane or mystical significance, then there's one person I know more than any other who might have some insight into exactly what that is."
>"Well whichever one you're going to see first, I suggest you take someone with you, and move fast."

Take Finesse!

>>124087
Yes, she's quite handy with a crossbow. Or was that a blowgun?

Take Finesse. Babrakus and Tislomer are busy fucking, and Dompag needs to guard.

>>124085
We should find out what the amulet does. If we only have time to do one task, let it be the one that might give us an advantage. It seemed as though the invader was not terribly confident in his own abilities, and didn't really want to kill anyone. If the entrance is secured properly, things should be fine until you get back.

Also take Finesse. I bet she's got some wicked nice tricks up her sleeve when she's armed.

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)19:12 No. 124100 ID: c593ec
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"All right. Finesse, you should come with me."
>"Wh-- me, Master Muschio?
"Yes, I'm sure when properly armed you've got some tricks up your sleeve."

>"...M-Master Muschio, I... with all respect I can't fight. I've never trained with any weapons. I'm just a tinker, a scientist. I'm not a soldier!"

Yes. Take Finesse. Right there, on the table.

Ah, but your a devious little child with tricks like that little stunt you pulled with the sleeping darts when capturing the princess. You're quite more capable than you think you are in battle.

>>124100
We don't really have anyone here skilled at fighting, except Dompag, and we'd really rather let him stay here to guard the fortress and keep an eye on the princess.
WAIT I KNOW
Where's Ash? We should get Ash to join us! She's a decent enough fighter, right?

>>124100
"Never trained with a weapon dear? why that's something we need to fix! Even Tislomer and Nekraska can fight."

Besides... we can fight, and she can learn. And she might know more what to expect from a wizard form her experience with the arcane.

>>124100
We could take Babs with us and go see what's up with the amulet. Babs seems pretty on the ball.

>>124100
Drat. Well, we should probably set up a target range so she can get some proficiency in ranged weaponry.

Who else is there? Tislomer or Babrakus? I feel a bit hesitant to take Dompag with us, as that would leave the base rather vulnerable.

Hmm. Tislomer does have capability with a spear, but she's not yet fully healed.

I guess all that's left is Babrakus, or Ashedel if she happens to show up.

>>124101
yes

Finesse has proven how useful her ingenuity has been in the past. She's an excellent choice.

Yeah, but your only underling who IS a fighter is Dompag, and he needs to stay here and guard the base. The Kobolds are ... kind of in a fragile state...

Maybe we can go alone.

No no, TAKE finesse, not take her with you
Like, fuck her on the table
You can hold her by her little fragile wrists as you slam that cunt

>>124100
>I'm just a tinker, a scientist. I'm not a soldier!"
Arm yourself with SCIENCE!

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)19:36 No. 124136 ID: c593ec
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Ashedel is here, in fact -- I made sure to call her back once we had the invasion. She's been sticking around since then.

>"M-master, I don't mean to be stubborn, but... I'd really rather not go. E-... especially after what happened to Tislomer. I think I should just stay here and... work on things."

tell her if she comes you'll make her come IF YOU GET THE SUBTLY HIDDEN MEANING OF WHAT I AM SAYING HERE

Fine, swap out Finesse for Ashedel. But do so reluctantly.

>>124136
> Ashedel is here
Oh, awesome! Let's take her then.
Inform Finesse that she probably knows herself best, even though you've always been confident in her abilities. She'll be in charge again until you get back.

>>124136
Work on things like an orb shard trap?

...Uh, anyway; maybe taking Ashedel would work? We haven't seen much of her, Boss, and Dompag's got an important job guarding the entrances and Vittima.

>>124136
"Funny, I thought you'd be chomping on the bit to go out ALONE with ME."

>>124136
If we were taking Finesse we would probably leave Ash in charge. Taking Ash would probably mean Finesse is best to lead, but is she up to it? After last time she may not be comfortable with that.

>>124136

You should probably see to getting some sort of protection for your less martial associates, either as some rudimentary dagger skills or simple padded armour. The first incursion seemed to be attempting stealth, and it still caused serious injury; should they try force things might get ugly.

...actually, what's been going on with the prisoner since the attack?

>>124136
Definitely take Ashedel. She can fly, fight, and seduce people for you. Quite multi-talented. Dompag uh... can't fly. He's better at the base.

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)19:44 No. 124148 ID: c593ec
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>>124138
I am NOT going to promise or even SUGGEST any kind of sexual or romantic favors to Finesse. The last thing I want to do is encourage her infatuation. As a friend, I want her to get over this silly crush as soon as possible.

Though despite her trespasses in poisoning me, however accidentally, I suppose it has also driven her to some interesting feats, like being able to capture the Princess.
In a way I almost worry that when she gets over me sometime in the next few weeks if her productivity won't drop.

Oh well. I suppose a little crush like this can't last too long, can it?

>>124148

Exactly. So milk it for all it's worth.

>>124148
Yeah, boss, it's not like she's wanted to be with you since she was a little girl and has been harboring this secret love for years or anything.

...Unless she, you know, has.

>>124148
Well, it's lasted, what, ten years? Twenty? Somewhere along that line.

I forget. Did we tell him exactly what caused this crush yet? It might be sort of important re: how long it's likely to last.

>>124148
you have NO IDEA.

Did you father ever tell you about how he saved a team of goblin miners from drowning, before he became king? Finnie was just a little gobbogirl back then. Ever since then she knew that it would be a Malto that she would marry. That Malto is you, muschio.

>>124148
Ask her how long she's had feelings for you.

Muschio
Not exploiting your friends' feelings
That seems pretty Good
That's not evil Neutral!
You should either wreck those little hips or I guess you can be a pansy like Ridder and MARRY ASHEDEL

Yeah she's been crushing on you (or at least your line) since your daddy the Baron saved her daddy from the flooding mines.

Should we consider putting Babrakus in charge this time? He seems to carry himself fairly well.

If we leave Finnie here, I'd say we should ask her to make herself something she could use, should we decide that her skills are vital on a mission elsewhere.

If we still want to take her with us, perhaps we could spice up the deal by getting her something she needs for her tinkering? Though... you know how women can get with shopping at times, though.

>>124160
tis' true. She has said that she has wanted you since that point. She has even given a vow that she won't stop...

Really Muschio, if you let her go on, SHE WILL GO ON.

hey what if you ask ashedel for advice !

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)19:56 No. 124177 ID: c593ec
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Wait wait wait. You say she's thought this way since the Baron Malto saved her father from a cave-in?

The Baron Malto?

The Maltos haven't owned a Barony since...
since my great-grand father, who later ascended to the throne of King.

­
­
­

...how old is Finesse?

oh god she's a milf
FUCK HER

>>124177

wut

>>124177
DAMN! We had no idea she was THAT old! I mean, most of us thought it was your father!

Perhaps we should enquire, innocently, as to what the typical lifespan of a goblin is.

>>124177
Goblins are immortal, you know. Just like elves, they don't age after a certain point. She's been around for a long time, yes, but well... you could say she's been like, 30 or something for most of it.

...thats...thats a long time.

>>124177
I don't think we were mistaken, but that is what it sounded like. I don't recall mention of dates... you're just going to have to ask her about it.

Wait wait were there two separate flashbacks? We might be mixing things up?

>>124177
That is an interesting question. We'll ask her directly, save you the awkwardness.

>>124190

Maybe being overly direct is not advisable here.

Particularly if it turns out goblins do not possess freakishly long lifespans.

Hiro!J02Ujjg4Nw 2010/02/02(Tue)20:06 No. 124194 ID: 1e1932
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>>124177

*VRP!*

WHAT?!

>>124188

We know that a miner named Barr, rescued by a Baron Malto, tied a band round his daughter Finnie's ear to remember the day of his rescue.

Ok, so the one trapped in the mine was Barr, who had a daughter named Finnie... and put a ribbon on her ear.

I suppose she might named after her grandmother, and has her same ribbon. Not impossible, but a bit of a stretch.

Old. She's old, simple as that. You really shouldn't define an immortal's age.

>>124177
Ok easy mode here: Ask her where she got the ribbon on her ear.

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)20:21 No. 124210 ID: c593ec
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I... I hadn't considered...

I mean, now that you mention it, unaging in Goblins does sound familiar somehow.
...I guess I just... I mean...


"...Finesse, just out of idle curiosity, when did you get that ribbon?"
>"Hm? Oh! My dad gave it to me. Long time ago. Nothing special."

ಠVಠ

>>124210
What? Is there a problem with that, Muschio? I mean, what's wrong with her being 'old' when she still looks so good? You'd fuck a 1,000 year old elf wouldn't you?

>>124210
Finnie is likely wiser than you give her credit mylord.. she's seen your entire damn empire rise and fall.

She would make quite a suitable match I think. Very skilled to have lived so long.

"HOW long ago?"

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)20:35 No. 124232 ID: c593ec
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Well I... I suppose you're right. It's nothing I mind, just... well it's not quite what I had imagined I suppose.

I might as well get Ashedel.
"ASHED-- oh!"
>"Yeah?"
"How long have you been standing there?"
>"Not long."
"Well. I'm heading out and I need you to come with me in the event I should need an extra set of eyes."
>"No problem."
Finesse looks up.

>"So where are you headed first, Master Muschio? To the man you said you knew had magic like this, or the person who might know more about the amulet?"

go to the person that knows about the amulet. its better to have a backstory before any confrontations.

>>124232
Let's find out about the amulet, so we can find out if it's any worth to us. Then either we can keep it and use it ourselves, or sell it to the invader when we track him down.

>>124239
We are not selling it to him... we are getting some vengeance for his trespass and ruination of Tislomer's face.

Muschio 2010/02/02(Tue)20:45 No. 124247 ID: c593ec
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Fortunately for me, my two leads are the same man.

Dermane Zal.

>>124247
So what's this Zal dude like?

uh well about th..nevermind you'll see.

>>124250
see? or cause?

anyway, that solves that quandary nicely then. Off to Brownscale Town!

>>124247
Stop stabbing your map, we're not made of maps you know.

>>124256
...Would it be possible to get a new map from this Zal person as well? Not that the current one is bad, I'm just asking.

Damn that river ~nya

inb4 Muschio meets Riddermom

>>124297
What could possibly go right?

>>124299
TIM

>>124278
Goddamnit, we're not made of maps! Use pins or something, not daggers!

>>124311
Yeah, but we had to stab the river. Might've hit that bastard carp.

>>124247
Well then that gives you an oppurtunity to learn some more magick. Fireballs is alot more impressive than just lighting candles. And while you're in town you should pick up a new sword. You really should have some more weapons.

>>124299

Well, from knight blades we know that Ritari made it back home safely. So I suppose it can't have gone THAT disastrously wrong.

Unless we are still somewhat behind temporally, in which case, do we actually know who caused the rioting and opened the prison?

>>124407
the criminal organizations opened the prisons.... duh...

The paladins seemed a threat to the criminal overlords, and so the criminal overlords bribed guards to open prisons.

>>124407
Wait, did I miss something? Did Rittari appear in DQ? Or DiveQuest? Because if she went to either it'd be pretty cool. She'd be like, "I want a Brownie Batter Bl#RS@$ERROR 401 REBOOT VOICE

Muschio 2010/02/08(Mon)12:54 No. 128070 ID: c593ec
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Ashedel and myself soon arrive at our destination, and the moldy streets of Sepia Town are a familiar sight.

It's awfully quiet today.

Our goal, then, is to find where this coward Zal has hidden himself. A man of his standing should be an easy enough target.

insert dick into ashedel

Look up high, people like to be high in the air if they think they're important.

>>128070
Quiet? Isn't such a big town usually bustling with activity?

Anyway you're in the wrong section of town again. Do you remember how to get to the upper class district? Maybe you can send Ashedel to scout ahead up in the air and find where it is.

>>128070
Start sniffing the ground to pick up his scent.
Or check out The Deadly Curiosity.

>>128070
Mushio my dear man, I hava come up with a devious plan for dealing with the princess. What with your earlier outbursts near her the likelyhood that she will feel anything romantic about you is rather limited, and you don't like her. But Dompag is a different story, if we can make her fall in love with him and then release her we should be able to turn her to our cause. Her daddy is unlikely to let her have an Ogre for boyfriend/husband since one of the cornerstones of the revolution was no more interaction with monstrous races.

Anyway that's for later. A more immediate concern is the fact that nobody has tried to solicit you for sex or pick your pocket. When neither of those two things happen in Sepia Town there is something odd going on. Bang on a few housedoors and demand explinations, and tell Ashedel to fly up and scout out the town a bit.

There's something wrong, Muschio. Best keep hidden, and let our bodyguard scout a little

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)13:09 No. 128081 ID: c593ec
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I can't fly, only glide. And these conditions are too cramped for much of that, either.

But I will take the lead to make sure there's nothing lying in wait. The treachery of the mind knows few boundaries.

Good plan, you are rather hardy, aren't you? Take more than a little to take you down?

If you can't fly, you should still look up though, see if there are any towers, etc.

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)13:35 No. 128089 ID: c593ec
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Save for the tower of the chapel, there are no especially tall buildings around, and no sign of an ambush from above. We appear safe. For now.
But danger lurks around every corner in this city of sin. A dropped guard means a slit throat.

>"We have to find that bastard Zal before he strikes again. Who knows what devious schemes he's brewing up even now?"

>>128089
Eh? Who said that?

find a quiet alley
insert muschios penis into your vagina
forcefully

Don't mess with the classics, any taverns around?

>>128092
Not a terrible idea. Just not one that is approrpiate for the current circumstances.

>>128089
Venture deeper into the city. But make sure you have multiple escape paths out of places. Try to find someone to ask about what's going on. And tell Mushio to make sure he has his knife easily accesisble, he should still have an unbalanced knife he used to kill Red Fang and some muggers.

What are we doing again?

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)13:45 No. 128097 ID: c593ec
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The fiery passion of physical intimacy smolders, but the danger of this place is too great to be distracted by such desires.
Another kind of primal instinct takes over, a vicious bloodthirst that surges through us in search of our prey.

"Like a rat in his hole, our quarry has gone into hiding."
>"If we are to find the bastard traitor, we must delve into the blackened heart of this twisted city and reach the upper class district. Surely a legion of guards will stand in our way."
"Then we will cut them down like grain before a scythe!"

Don't cause trouble, staying hidden will be of great benefit.

Ashedel you are so awesome!

>>128097
Hmmm your thoughts sound a bit like a noir novel my dear.

Nevertheless, he is right.. we must penetrate the wealthy quarter and find a way to our prey. However I advise caution, while you two are both skilled combatants, it would be wise to chose the paths with fewer foes.

>>128097
While I don't doubt your physical prowess or Mushios capacity for swift deadly violence it could be a bad idea in this case. He doesn't really have the weapons he would need to be his best and the opposition could have overwhelming numbers. Talk first and then stab, rather than stab fist ask later.

>>128097
Interesting. Interesting.

So show us your boobs.

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)14:00 No. 128113 ID: c593ec
File 126566645526.gif - (10.93KB , 800x600 , 980.gif )

Like a silent breeze among the twisted boughs of a rotted tree we blow through the empty streets of the dark town, and though no foes make claim to battle, all the while we feel their sinister eyes upon us, waiting and watching.

>"Soon we will arrive at the high class quarter, and Zal will have his reckoning. I swear unto all the gods above that his blood will be upon my hands should he dare defy us!"
"The traitor will pay for his transgressions. He will give us the answers we seek or he will know the sting of my blade!"
>"I fear we may yet meet resistance gaining entrance to his home."

>>128113
...is that really what you two are saying, or are you embellishing things somehow before we hear them?

Stay together and go around the back, it's unexpected that more than one person will try to use a back entrance instead of splitting up.

So is everything epic? When you use the bathroom, or make your bed, do you have a snazzy narrative to go with it?

>>128113
Hmmm, scout out his place before you go bursting through doors with shiny steel in your hands. It's always better to be prepared, that way you can kill stuff more efficiently and have more time over for tea and crumpets.

Is this before or after the Paladins went nuts in this place?

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)14:12 No. 128119 ID: c593ec
File 126566713239.gif - (13.42KB , 800x600 , 981.gif )

At last we arrive at the home of the traitor Dermane Zal. A great gate stretches around it like a spider's web, with all the cowardice and venom to be expected of a man of his transgressions. The stench of his blackened soul reaches us even here.

>"This is it. The monster lies within."
"Perhaps we should not attempt a direct attack. In the depths of his treachery he may yet have prepared countermeasures."
>"Perhaps."

The front door is guarded by a single man. Surely more forces wait in hiding.

Speak to him before an assault.

>>128119

Explore the perimeter of the place. We would best use the element of surprise if we could find a way to sneak in undetected.

He may be too clever for his own good. Check around for other entrances, but those may be watched more carefully than the front.

>>128119
Tell Mushio to stay back. You go forward and speak with the guard. There is something strange going on in this town and it may be a greater immediate danger than any treacherous sorceror.

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)14:21 No. 128128 ID: c593ec
File 126566769736.gif - (11.56KB , 800x600 , 982.gif )

"We should speak to the guard first. Let us first guise our intentions, should we need a secondary assault from another side."
>"Agreed. We will learn what we can of our foe's predicament before going forward."

We approach the young man who stands before the door.

>"Can I help you?"
He asks with an insincere smile pasted across his face like a masquerade veil. His treachery is surely rival only to his master's. He must be planning something.
>"Is Dermane at home?"
>"Who? Oh, Mister Zal! Right. Uh, yeah, he's here. Sorry. I'm new at this. The other guy quit last week."
The young man is either a great fool or even more cunning than I had imagined. Perhaps he is steering us into a trap.

Already I can feel the gears of fate set in motion.

>>128128

Tread lightly.

>>128128
Keep steady, the sorcerer may be crafty, but you still need the information from him. Don't do anything to endanger getting the information Muschio needs.

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)14:27 No. 128131 ID: c593ec
File 126566805135.gif - (11.69KB , 800x600 , 983.gif )

Muschio is clearly hatching a plan.

>"May we come in? I'm an old friend of Mister Zal."
"Oh, of course. I'll go tell him to come down."

It seems too easy. Maybe the guard really is as naive as he appears. Either way, I will remain vigilant and ready for any cowardly tactics.

Especially after Muschio shed his light upon the black history of the monster we call Dermane Zal.

TELL US AS YOU GO IN

What exactly IS the black history of the fiend?

>>128131
Hmm, the guard could have been picked just because of his weak mental facilities. A stupid guard won't ask uncomfortable questions and is alot easier to find than a smart guard. Onwards, but be on your toes. A mage is even more dangerous in his home, who knows what magic he might have weaved into the walls.

God damn fucking shit eating work. Now I'm going to miss the good stuff because I have to sleep. Who the fuck came up with the brilliant idea of work starting at 8? Guess I will have to read it afterwards. Damn it, just at the part where it's starting to get awesome.

>>128131
Please elaborate as to what kind of traitor this Zal character is.

Muschio 2010/02/08(Mon)14:42 No. 128137 ID: c593ec
File 126566894837.gif - (7.15KB , 800x600 , 984.gif )

Dermane Zal -- formerly known as Zalifar the Arcane -- is a man of semi-noble birth (some Duke's brother I believe) who once served as the Court Magician to the Malto family. He followed my mother and father for a number of duties and his mystic knowledge aided in decisions from time to time. Once in a while he would even teach me what he could of his arcane ways, and the fire-conjuring knack you witnessed earlier was understood from his tutelage.

but then he inappropiatly touched you? or did he sacrifice some hot babes to a demongod in exchange for power?
muschio what did he do
IT BETTER BE SEXY

What else did he teach you? Any other practical magic, or just general mechanic information?

>>128139

Making fire with the snap of your fingers can be pretty dang useful.

>>128137
Interesting? what was his role during the rebellion?

>>128137
What do we know of his motivation? Even if he is guilty of the most foul betrayal in the end the backdrop of revolution may mean he was simply in fear for his own safety. A coward, yes; and a liability to those he serves. Potentially a danger still those near him should he still feel threatened. Nevertheless, he himself would not be the threat and going in a hostile man might only exacerbate things.

Be guarded and cautious, but it would be wise to leave venom and recrimination for later. For now we want information, either as to his hiring or knowledge of anyone else who could have performed the little stunt we saw at the Vault.

Muschio 2010/02/08(Mon)15:34 No. 128157 ID: c593ec
File 126567204054.gif - (5.36KB , 800x600 , 985.gif )

Zal's bitter outlook and arrogant manners earned him distaste among the public, but it wasn't until his secrets came to light that the court turned on him as well.
It was by chance a young gravedigger discovered the magician practicing the forbidden arts of necromancy on the recently-dead, and in the investigations that followed, extortion and blackmail joined the black arts as strikes against the Court Wizard. Dermane was exiled from Piacevole.

He swore revenge against the court, and from afar he financed those who spearheaded the revolution, aiding the downfall of what was to be my kingdom.

Dermane Zal's grudge against the Maltos means he had the motive to act against me, as well as the arcane knowledge to understand the strange bone artefact (and thus have reason to seek it) and the mystical understanding to create a physical portal.

>>128157
How would he know where your base is though?

run awaaayyy

>>128157

Dermane Zal = Key ally for the Knight Blades

Hmmmm.

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)15:41 No. 128165 ID: c593ec
File 126567251020.gif - (9.59KB , 800x600 , 986.gif )

Our quarry has arrived.

>"Who the hell is it this time?! If I have to --"
>"Hello, Zal."
>"...by the gods. You?!"

>>128165
"Yes.. me..."

>>128165
Completely ignore Zal and wander around outside looking for something interesting.

>>128165
Sounds like he wasn't involved in the invasion of our base. Or he's a good actor.

If he was the one that invaded the vault, he would have a different reaction upon seeing Muschio, wouldn't he? Nevertheless, one of you jump his ass, other check for guards.

Wave the amulet in front of him.

"Looking for this?"

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)15:49 No. 128173 ID: c593ec
File 126567299270.gif - (9.79KB , 800x600 , 987.gif )

I grab the traitor firmly by the shoulders and slam him against his own marble walls, which shudder from the impact. Fear replaces surprise on his face and the coward begins to sweat visibly. This is an assault he had not envisioned. His reckoning has come.

>"I'm going to ask you a few questions, Zal, and for every time you lie to me, my assistant here will remove a finger. Do you understand me?"
>"M-Muschio, I had no idea you were alive!"
>"If it was up to the dogs your money funded, I'd be in the ground with the rest of my family! You're a traitor, Zal! You turned on us!"
>"Your family exiled me in disgrace!"

Watch his hands, they have fire. Ask him where he's been in the last 48 hours.

>>128173
Remove a finger straight off and tell him to stop trying to give excuses.

Accuse him of sending the shadowy wizard after the amulet. Tell him of poor Tislomer's disfigurement.

>>128173
Can't very well allow a necromancer to be associated with the Royal Family can we?

Don't remove a finger yet, he hasn't LIED exactly. Break a finger instead.

Oh, get that staff away from him so he can't use it.

Punch him in the balls

>>128173
Don't let the creepy bastard hold onto his staff! That's the second most dangerous tool a wizard has.

Wait, what if he's not a traitor?

Also... let's not cut anything off.. yet.. he hasn't lied and we are a man of our word.

>>128186
He didn't answer our question. He needs at least a broken finger to know to not fuck around.

>>128173
His disgrace came from his own dark interests being brought to light. Did he seriously think the court had any alternative course of action, even if they hadn't been disgusted by his activities themselves?

He hasn't broken our ground rules yet, so we won't break anything of him. But perhaps giving his finger a little bend would remind him to show some respect.

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)16:11 No. 128195 ID: c593ec
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I break one of the rat's fingers for insolence and throw his skull-topped staff to the ground, well out of his reach. His winces in pain and whimpers like a dog. His arrogant manner is already broken, burst like a damn, given way to a rush of pathetic pleading.

When he recovers a bit from the pain, he speaks between gasps.
>"Muschio, you have every right to hate me. But I swear on mother's grave, those days are behind me! The new King threw me out as soon as they took the throne!"
>"Silence, you old coward! One day you shall have your reckoning for the murder of my family, be it in this world or the next. But this day I have come to avenge your more recent trespasses against me."
>"I swear I didn't even know you were alive! I have no idea what you're talking about!" He pleads, quivering.
I grasp another finger and his eyes widen.

>"My comrades and I were attacked the other day by a cloaked figure seeking an artifact in my possession. He gravely wounded one of my allies. That will not stand!"
>"And you think it was me?! Muschio, on my--"
>"He was capable of magical teleportation -- a feat I've only seen performed by one other man: YOU!"
>"Muschio, listen to me! Those were parlor tricks! Illusions, nothing more! I'm not a wizard! Most of my demonstrations were created with mirrors or potions... I-... I never cast anything more complex than a fire knack or a light flare! Even the necromancy was just an attempt at communication!"
>"You LIE!"
My hand tightens around his finger and he shakes his head frantically.

>"I swear on my mother's grave!"
>"Swear on YOUR grave, Dermane!"
>"Yes! I swear it! I swear on my own grave, potions and illusions, that's all I have!"

>>128195
Potions? What kind of potions?

He's telling the truth. If this was a ruse, he'd be too clever to let you come in here and break his fingers. Do you have the bone charm with you?

If he could only manage potions and tricks, then why the hell was he digging up corpses?

>>128195

"You're pathetic."

>>128195
I am actually inclined to believe him... if he was capable of true necromancy and real cosmic power then we would have been either unable to throw him out... or he would have raised his own dark army and be sitting on the throne himself (or at least a safely deniable distance behind it.)

Besides... what kind of real wizard lives in a damn town? Especially 'this' town.. such as it is... no I think this is a mere worm which walks... no great wizard.

I may be ahead of myself, but it is my opinion that we take him into our custody. Whether or not he knows anything is debatable, but he would serve more good to us alive then dead. And if he really did use potions, then maybe he can give us a hand in coming up with recipes to suit our needs.

Ask him about the necromancy. If he's a fake magician, what really happened?

"Then WHO? Who would be responsible for this act of brutality?? TALK!"

Why dont you just look around his place?
See what evidence you find

>>128214

Remember though that he does still have guards about. We should be quiet until we know they're no longer a threat.

>>128195
Gut him.

>>128219
Don't

"You will serve under me as I take back my kingdom or you will die. Perhaps I should save myself the trouble and kill you now. On second thought, I have no need for traitors. Be useful to me in your last few minutes alive and I will kill you quickly. Otherwise I take you back to my dungeon and have a few weeks of revenge before I end your miserable life."

If he starts pleading for his life agree to let him live if he answers your questions. Then when he is done kill him or if you feel even meaner, cut off his hands and gouge out his eyes. Some threat he will be after that. You can leave him to suffer for many years that way.

Tell Muschy that he should rape him.

>>128224

Don't forget the tongue. Also, who needs teeth? Soup's good.

Come to think of it, noses are overrated as well...

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)16:43 No. 128235 ID: c593ec
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>"If you're a charlatan, then what of the necromancy?!"
>"I told you already, I was just trying to commune with them -- it didn't even work!"
I glance at the boss, and he nods. I throw Zal to the ground, and he whimpers like a child.

"Should I take care of him?"
>"Leave him. He's just a worm that walks like a man. He's already destroyed himself more thoroughly than we ever could."

I turn to leave, and Muschio notices gleaming potion vials along the wall.
>"So you're just an alchemist, then?"
>"No, not even that. I--I buy my potions from a gypsy woman who comes by now and then."
>"Do you have anything that could restore my injured comrade?"
Dermane pauses for a moment, still gasping on the floor like a fish out of water, then nods hurriedly.
>"Yes, y-yes, on the shelf, the bright red vial near the end, the one with the purple cork. Ingested it should bring your ally back to full health."

I turn to Muschio.
"Should we go, then?"

You trust him?!

Give him a drop first, see if his finger heals.

>>128235
Give him a couple drops of it and see what happens.
For fun you could give him a random potion from the shelf along with it.

>>128235

Right. Like we trust you enough to ingest what you suggest.

...Take any other potions BUT that one. Unless it's the only thing on the shelf that you can carry or something.

A single lie spoken in here will deserve a return trip, Zal. And one more thing, you must know of magical odds and ends, correct? What is this gnoll trinket?

>>128235
What about a polymorph potion? That was one plan we had discussed for the princess, right?

Oh yeah, that's a good plan. Break his fingers and then ask for a way to conceal your vulnerabilities.

Yeah test that out on him first.

>>128235
Tell him you're going to make him test the potion first. See how he reacts. Being the coward that he is, he'll panic if it's really poison. If this happens, give it to him. Watch him squirm and die, or leave. Your choice.

However, if it seems that he will accept the potion without incident, then it is indeed a healing potion. If that is the case, then don't let him have one drop. He deserves the pain you inflicted upon him. Leave.

I agree with testing it on the obvious person first.

>>128238

I like this. Do this.

>>128235
I agree about testing a drop on him

And ask about that gypsy woman, perhaps she might know something, or someone, helpful.

>>128245
>>If he accepts it without hesitation, give him a few drops then break his finger again.

fixed

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)17:09 No. 128267 ID: c593ec
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>"If it's just a healing potion, then I'm sure you'll have no problem testing it for us."
>"I-- I don't need any healing though, I'm sure I'll be just-"
>"I insist. Ashedel?"

>"No, no please, w-wait!"

It's time the cowardly snake get a taste of his own medicine.
>"NO!"

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)17:09 No. 128268 ID: c593ec
File 126567779756.gif - (7.40KB , 800x600 , 991.gif )

>"Y...you fool...! *koff koff* You have no idea... what you've done!"

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)17:10 No. 128269 ID: c593ec
File 126567781140.gif - (7.20KB , 800x600 , 992.gif )

>*koff*

>>128269
Giggle madly and grab another just like it.

>>128269
Laugh... a lot!... also take his other potions...

Totally his own fault. Laugh your asses off. Are his fingers fixed at least?

Deck him and take them all. Have Tislomer sort out what's what.

Test all the potions on him. Take them all.

Then burn the place to the ground.

Oh lord. If I remember, wasn't the fucker a bit racist/xenophobic when we met him in KB?

Anyways, keep trying for a healing potion. Promise to test each and every one on him until you find the right one. Tell him that if the next one really IS the healing potion, you won't re-break his fingers after testing it on him.

>>128277

Thats a thought. See if you can find any alchemy texts; even if this idiot can't mix potions you might be able to teach Tislomer some new ones.

find out whether the skull-staff is magical or not

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)17:29 No. 128294 ID: c593ec
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We leave the broken coward to his grief, a fitting end for a man such as himself.
Our quarry turned out to be not a wolf, but a sheep in wolf's clothing, a cowardly man cowering in an aura of false power.

We leave Sepia Town and its disgrace behind with armfuls of potions the old man was kind enough to let us have. They'll be analyzed later.

The afternoon air is warm and I feel we have done well -- and yet, amid the sounds of wild dogs barking in the distance and the cool melody of birdsong, we remind ourselves that we are truly no closer to an answer than we were when we started. Whoever the man against us is, Zal can give us no insight.

>>128294
Rape Muschio.

time for sex

Woodland sex sounds good.

>>128294

Return to lair. Regroup and brainstorm more ideas.

>>128294
>a sheep in cat's clothing

Wild, bestial copulation.

>>128294

Trust me, this was a far better turnout than any amount of information could have possibly provided.

>>128294
How about we go check on the base while you head back? Finesse or Dompag are good ones to talk with.

Oh and keep an eye out for a gypsy merchant, just in case...

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)17:43 No. 128317 ID: c593ec
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Out in the woods, with the beauty of nature all around us, I feel a strange desire to work off some of the energy from our previous confrontation. I can't describe it but I'm overcome with the urge.

"Muschio. Let's make love."
>"What, right here?"
"Yes."
>"...all right."

Wait, keep moving for a little while first and look around, see what happens. You could have been subjected to magic designed to keep you... occupied while someone sneaks up on you.

Do it like rabid animals. HOWL AT THE MOON

>>128317
Say you were just kidding, grab his clothes, and run off to the base.

>>128321
ahahaha

>>128321
I like this idea. Leave him his underwear though.

>>128321

YES YOU MUST

>>128317
watch out for them bears

Spend the rest of your time in the woods making macaroni artwork for your friends back in the cave!

You can't betray master's trust like that. Unless he gets revenge dickings back at base. I hope you like it real rough. Like not walking for a day rough.

>>128317
that... is kinda random
But at least check your surroundings... Chances of a spell to entice you are at 55% in my book.

>>128330
Really? Because, you know, I coulda swore that was US.

AHEDEL THIS IS IMPORTANT! WHO WAS THAT PIPE SMOKING DRUGGIE RABBIT AT THE TOWER BACK WHEN MUSCHIO SHOWED UP??????

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)18:25 No. 128360 ID: c593ec
File 126568233057.gif - (9.30KB , 800x600 , 995.gif )

I don't remember any rabbit.

Before Muschio can disrobe and allow me a chance to make off with his clothing, a man's voice catches our attention.

>"Hey! Stop! You there, stop! Thief!"

GO INVESTIGATE
Try it stealthy if you can
otherwise just run him down and the thief

>>128360
Better prepare for battle. We will not be returning the goods.

Ashedel 2010/02/08(Mon)18:27 No. 128366 ID: c593ec
File 126568245513.gif - (9.33KB , 800x600 , 996.gif )

...but I'm naked.

>>128360
Pretend to be a bear.

>>128366
oh... well then... uhmmm.

>>128366
Oh, well get your clothes on first then!

>>128366
Oh dear.

Cover self to preserve modesty, then prepare for battle.

Fine, tell Muschio he can go ahead and that you'll back him up once youre dressed

CHANGES

NOTHING

You dueled Muschio naked with your feet alone, what happened to that person??

>>128366
Well then help Muschio get disrobed, no reason why only one of you should be naked.

Rip off Muschio's clothes too, then. The nakedness will seem less awkward if there are two of you.

>>128366
Then get not naked.

ASHEDEL, YOUR NEXT ASSIGNMENT AFTER RETURNING TO BASE IS TO GET TO THE TOWER AND FIND THE WHEREABOUTS OF SAID RABBIT. SHE IS IMPORTANT TO US, MUSCHIO, AND THE WELL BEING OF OUR "HOME BASE". DO YOU UNDERSTAND THESE ORDERS?

No interruptions. Throw a potion at his head.

Groan wearily, put clothes BACK on, handle the idiot, then get back to business.

ALSO OFFER THREESOME

>>128366
Fight in the nude!

Muschio 2010/02/08(Mon)18:43 No. 128396 ID: c593ec
File 126568340082.gif - (7.55KB , 800x600 , 997.gif )

I head towards the noise, prepared for battle with my wrist crossbow and concealed knife. Ashedel is redressing and will join me in a moment.

Reaching the clearing, it appears whoever's shouting isn't actually after us.

>"Nowhere left to run, thief!"
>"Look, we can work this out...!"

You wanted to reassess yourself, right? Get involved, go see what's up!