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File 126810783839.jpg - (33.36KB , 800x470 , First Hand.jpg )
143991 No. 143991 ID: 817cd3

Black: "Hope he isn't afraid of the dark."

Yellow: "He managed to avoid that hindrance, besides he has a light."

Black: (leans in) "Hehe, so confident? Well then, let's make this a little more interesting no? What say I up the ante?"

Yellow: (shifting his cards) "hmm?"

Black: "You win this and I'll cede the board's center?"

Yellow: (dryly) "How far... and what is the alternative?"

Black: "From G-31 to J-24... but if I win, your most powerful card is locked for oooohh lets say 19 turns?"

Yellow: 19? ... you can't be? that... you already caught the Dog at the game start."

Black: (leans back grinning) "It's just an offer, no pressure."
Expand all images
>>
No. 143997 ID: 632862

Yellow: Your most powerful card is the "No" right? That is most useful for nullifying the biggest move your opponent makes. If I'm reading Black correctly, that will happen late in the game. I don't think you stand to lose much here.
>>
No. 144064 ID: 1cf830

I enjoy how each of the 'players' differs each time we see him/her and yet still adheres to a certain motif. Grand.

Anyway, my question is... Is Black betting with more than he can actually promise? I mean it's not a game just between the two of you, so would his proposed ceding of the board's center truly give you a centralized advantage, or is there even more at work? Oi, what am I doing trying to understand this game...
>>
No. 144065 ID: 632862

>>144064
(Note: Other players can hear what we say. Address your messages directly to one color to have a private chat.)
>>
No. 144069 ID: 1cf830

>>144065
MY QUESTIONABLE WISDOM IS FOR THE BENEFIT OF ALL.
>>
No. 144408 ID: a56bd0
File 12681703734.jpg - (172.94KB , 800x470 , all in veiw.jpg )
144408

Orange (aside): hmm Black ceding the center is a risky move, he can do it and take a hit. But then his tactics and skills 'are' particularly suited to deceptions hidden in plain sight... he could reasonably take it back later. However, this would give Yellow a homeground advantage as the local ruins terrain 'is' more suited to his aligned units."

Violet (to any or none): "Turning and turning in the widening gyre The falcon cannot hear the falconer..."

Blue: "Take a chance~ roll the dice~ See what comes of our device~"

Red: "Come on Yellow, don't be a bitch. Accept the bet or let it set..."

Yellow: "Done. I accept the challenge. You lose this and a I gain the board's center, I loose an My most powerful card in locked for 19."
>>
No. 144435 ID: 1cf830

Way to fall to peer pressure.
>>
No. 144460 ID: 407b5b
File 126817773668.jpg - (105.26KB , 800x470 , 1.jpg )
144460

The light falls away from me as I delve deeper into the mine's interior. Here the warmth of the coming midday is supplanted by the cool breath of the earth's heart. I stand quite still for a moment to let the sensation wash over me.
>>
No. 144532 ID: a56bd0
File 126818753998.jpg - (126.41KB , 800x470 , 2.jpg )
144532

...But I don't have time to enjoy the natural air cooling, the considerable airflow means this is likely quite a large tunnel complex and I didn't pack a lunch thus expedience in resolving these would be a desirable, if more and more unlikely outcome.

I outline some goals for myself as I ready my flashlight.

1: Find Clara and hopefully put some sense in her.
a.find elevator?
b.maybe some lights?
2: Find Clara's brother, Sheriff Parker, and get some sense out of him.
a. repair elevator?
b.Descend into lower levels
3: Resolve the truth of my predecessor's death.
5:???
6: Prophet... wait... what?
>>
No. 144629 ID: c0f3bf

Hm, check that bag and put on a mask.
>>
No. 145033 ID: 3b6c92

>>144532
I spy with my little eye a satchel looking thing on the ground there. You should figure out what's in it.
>>
No. 145185 ID: 1cf830

That list of things to do boggles the mind
>>
No. 145292 ID: 817cd3
File 126827997235.jpg - (91.96KB , 596x454 , 3.jpg )
145292

The beam of my flashlight reveals a line of yellowed work-coats and the sparkling lenses and steel of mining helmets.

I open a battered looking toolbox on the ground to reveal: a withered lemon, a hipflask half-full of perhaps some kind of whiskey or rum, a molded sandwich, some spools of wire, some Diazed screw fuses, a few coins.
>>
No. 145299 ID: 15f6d6

It might be a good idea to wear the helmet to keep things from hitting you in the head.
>>
No. 146275 ID: 817cd3
File 126843745837.jpg - (96.49KB , 508x470 , 4.jpg )
146275

>>145299
I put on a metal miner's helmet, it seems this model is even provided with a handy little headlamp for hands free work. It crosses my mind that either they have some very forgetful miners to leave such things at a 'closed' mine... or they were forced to leave in some haste.
>>
No. 146276 ID: 632862

>>146275
Grab the toolbox. Just leave everything in it. Any of it could theoretically be useful.

Then check further into the mines.
>>
No. 146278 ID: 15f6d6

Keep your special light ready. Do you think it would actually be useful to defend yourself with from some kind of supernatural creature? You brought your shotgun, right?
>>
No. 147610 ID: 817cd3
File 126861074935.jpg - (177.58KB , 800x488 , 5.jpg )
147610

I hang up my hat in exchange for the helmet switching on it's lamp as I do so. The batteries in the torch would find better use in the Radiance Device. I suspect it may have some use against the more unusual hindrances to my goals.

I dump the contents of the toolbox (excusing the sandwich 'that' can stay!) into my toolbag. I lack a free hand to hold my shotgun as I venture deeper into the mines, but I ensure that it is clear and loaded.

Soon a series of side passages reveal themselves, lancing off into the darkness to my left.
>>
No. 147795 ID: 632862

>>147610
How is that wheelbarrow standing up like that without falling over? Shine the radiance device on it.
>>
No. 147948 ID: e973f4

>>147610
Could it help to glance at that diagram looking thing over there on your left, on the off chance it's something like a map?
>>
No. 147968 ID: 817cd3
File 126867386125.jpg - (79.12KB , 376x366 , 6.jpg )
147968

>>147795
I kick aside the wheelbarrow and subject it's secrets to the beam of the Radiance Device revealing...

Two boxes of dynamite, the sparking reaction of which warms me to hastily switch off the Device. I do not think that I ever tested the Device on dynamite in particular, but that is one reaction I am not keen to explore in an enclosed space.
>>
No. 147969 ID: 817cd3
File 126867394586.jpg - (65.66KB , 333x396 , 7.jpg )
147969

>>147948
The diagram on the wall appears to be a map of the first levels of the mine.
>>
No. 147977 ID: d8aa80

Take the map with you. Unless there is anything particular of note on it, I guess you should explore in a straight line first without veering off. Check the map periodically so you can keep track of where you are.
>>
No. 147982 ID: 817cd3
File 126867878046.jpg - (437.62KB , 927x666 , map1.jpg )
147982

>>147977
I examine the map to get my bearings. It seems to be rather... erhm crude. Especially when compared to the rather more professional blueprints of my days at the Academy.
>>
No. 147989 ID: 632862

>>147982
Well first we need to make our way over to the elevator to see if it's been fixed yet, and try to either persuade Clara to go back home, or at least to let you help her.
>>
No. 147996 ID: f4dafd

If you think you got some use for the dynamite, take a stick or two.

And where are things exactly in this map; you, elevator, etc? Mind to point them out?
>>
No. 148065 ID: 817cd3
File 126869019829.jpg - (453.81KB , 927x666 , map2.jpg )
148065

>>147996
I tuck three sticks of dynamite from the box into some unused ammo loops on my bandoleer.

From what I can guess these are the likely level divisions.

While marking off the map I make my way to the elevator shaft to confront Clara. The map seems accurate to the numbering of the passages... if not to the scale it seems. I swear the distances seem rather longer than this paper would indicate.
>>
No. 148066 ID: 817cd3
File 126869042570.jpg - (382.22KB , 800x800 , 8.jpg )
148066

>>147989
I find the elevator where indicated. Clara still hasn't managed to get it working I see.

"fu.. piece of... damn..."
>>
No. 148074 ID: 632862

>>148066
"Hello there, having trouble?"
>>
No. 148087 ID: d8aa80

Ask what the problem seems to be and if there is any way we can be of more direct assistance.
>>
No. 148410 ID: 817cd3
File 126877023593.jpg - (253.78KB , 800x600 , 9.jpg )
148410

>>148074
"Problems mister?"

She nearly falls in turning to face me.

>"Hellwhose- Oh it's you again... Damn, don't sneak up on me like that, and I told you not to call me sir, don't tempt me to use this."
she says motioning with the pistol in her left hand.

"Sorry, but every time I suppose I have found the working men of this town it turns out to be you."

She waves off my idle banter.
>"I'm sorry but what are 'you' doing down here? Shouldn't you be buryen someone or preaching somethen?"
>>
No. 148539 ID: 15f6d6

Tell her that you think there is more to the old preacher's death than it first appeared and it has something to do with this mine. You're investigating.
>>
No. 148597 ID: 817cd3
File 126880502567.jpg - (253.20KB , 800x600 , 10.jpg )
148597

>>148539
>>148087
"There was rather more to good old Father McKenzie's death than it first appears. Evidence points to it having something to do with this mine, and if getting to the bottom of that shaft will get me to the bottom of this mystery, I'll crank the elevator by hand if I have to. So, how may I lend a hand?"

>"If you can get the power runnen in here I think the mess I've made of these wires will run the elevator."

"M'kay... I'll get on that. Just don't... touch the wires or anything while I get it started."
>>
No. 148783 ID: 632862

>>148597
Seek out the generator room!
>>
No. 148789 ID: e2020c

>>148783

This, although giving her a compliment about having a gun in these mines was a very good idea for a passing moment. "Folks with smarts aren't that common."
>>
No. 148800 ID: d8aa80

You should be able to follow the wires until you find the source of the problem.
>>
No. 148994 ID: 817cd3
File 12688855767.jpg - (253.80KB , 800x600 , 11.jpg )
148994

>>148789
I start back into the darkness, but before I do remember to note her armed status.

"You just stay safe here, and good call bringing the gun. Folks with smarts aren't that common around here it seems, and something about this place just doesn't sit right with me."

>"Yeah well, just don't go playing with any live wires with all that powder strapped to you. I don't want my brother and I to need finding anotha way out of this hole."
>>
No. 148996 ID: 817cd3
File 126888588228.gif - (4.46MB , 927x666 , map3.gif )
148996

>>148783
>>148800
I try the map first, I suspect that lighting symbol with the letters 'Gen' to be the marking. However, I will watch for obvious breakages along the way.
>>
No. 149357 ID: 15f6d6

Get ye forward to yon generator
>>
No. 149449 ID: 817cd3
File 126897348319.gif - (831.64KB , 900x800 , 12.gif )
149449

>>149357
Having found 'yon generator' in a rather cramped location if I do say, I am now faced with the challenge of the getting it running. I can smell the damp in here so I had best be careful.
>>
No. 149456 ID: c0f3bf

Light the candle, see if you can shed some light on that electrical box.
>>
No. 149538 ID: e2020c

>>149449

Best be careful. Don't touch the water with your bare skin but you need to redirect the flow. It would be best if you could find a way to ensure the generator is off first before starting.
>>
No. 149721 ID: 817cd3
File 126904684191.gif - (1.06MB , 900x800 , 13.gif )
149721

>>149456
>>149538
Remembering Clara's advice I remove my ammo bandoleer and place it well back before striking one of the matches I picked up last night in the church.

Okay, let us see what we have here... a thin sheen of water seems to be running down the wall and into a crack in the wiring pipe.

The generator is actually working fine from what I can tell. But that water pool is likely a hazard due to it's continued operation.

I would assume that this is the fuse box, my gloves would 'likely' protect me, from any current in the metal, but there is no guarantee a replacement fuse would operate for long under the strain and constant power fluctuation.

If only there was a way to redirect that water, perhaps even cutting off the generator completely while I work on it?
>>
No. 149723 ID: 632862

>>149721
You might be able to cut a channel into the wall with your icepick, so that the water flows away from the break.
>>
No. 149724 ID: 15f6d6

>>149723
This is a great idea.
>>
No. 149937 ID: e2020c

>>149723

I haven't invented anything better way to do it so let's give this a shot.
>>
No. 150113 ID: 362f0c
File 126912748777.jpg - (297.73KB , 900x800 , 14.jpg )
150113

>>149723
Hmm... this might work. I trade the formerly fine point on the icepick for a series of grooves in the stone wall, leading the flow away from the crack in the pipe. Didn't pull a 'A' in Elementary Hydrodynamics for nothing.

The pick's wooden handle and my gloves insulate me from the water's dangerous charge, but the pipe itself and thus the water are still slick with dangerous moisture until it dries back into to it's new path. I suppose the new water flow will be a problem for that beam much later but I don't have time to care for that.
>>
No. 150133 ID: 15f6d6

Could you possibly get one of the mine coats to dry up some of the water?
>>
No. 150178 ID: 362f0c
File 126913538721.jpg - (294.14KB , 900x800 , 15.jpg )
150178

>>150133
I wipe off the pipe using one of the leather mine coats. That should stop the power fluctuations. Now I can change that fuse safely... I hope.
>>
No. 150179 ID: 15f6d6

You might want to wait a few minutes, but yeah, go ahead and change it.
>>
No. 150182 ID: 632862

>>150178
Put your grubby hands all over that fuse box!
>>
No. 150263 ID: e2020c

>>150178

Time to get the fuse changed
>>
No. 150361 ID: a56bd0
File 126920312635.gif - (2.01MB , 900x800 , 16.gif )
150361

After waiting a few moment I pull open the fuse box and replace the burnt-out fuse.

"and... Let there be LIGHT!.. damn... oh there it goes."

I suppose the line may still have a bit of a flicker to it. But with everything else 'wrong' about this place it's probably to be expected.
>>
No. 150362 ID: 632862

>>150361
Mission complete; let's go inform the lady.
>>
No. 150431 ID: 15f6d6

Is it possible to wedge the conduit away from the wall so it isn't getting wet at all? The last thing that needs to happen is you go down the elevator and then the power shorts again.
>>
No. 151009 ID: 362f0c
File 126932495530.gif - (1.67MB , 900x700 , 17.gif )
151009

>>150431
I wedge some of the miner's coat between the wall and the pipe, it seems to help, somewhat.

>>150362
"Job's done..."

>"I noticed, let's go."

"I would argue for you to stay up here, but I somehow doubt you care to hear it. Besides, after hearing what happened to the deputy I wouldn't put it past you to fight for it and leave 'me' here." I say eying her gun.

>"Sounds smart."

"Guess we're both smarter than we look huh?"

The battered and rusted lift door closes with a jerky whine.
>>
No. 151133 ID: 15f6d6

Get ready for action. There's really nothing else to do before we see what's down there.
>>
No. 151660 ID: 362f0c
File 126949327890.gif - (800.22KB , 640x1000 , 18.gif )
151660

I try to break the awkward silence of our descent. Perhaps to distract myself from the voices of doubt and unrest I feel whispering at the fringes of my consciousness.

"I have a map... just in case."

>"That could help a bit, but I think the fella's here wern't particularly keen on taken notes. Near the end the mines were changen hands enough times that I'm not even sure who owns the land's papers anymore."

"I noticed... their cartography skills leave something to be desired. Still how far down do you think we should go, or more specifically... do we have a plan beyond searching every level?"

>"Wasn't specific, jest said.. 'they were pretty deep in the mine'."

"Yes, I was afraid of that..."
>>
No. 151852 ID: 15f6d6

Start at the bottom and work your way up. It's the most reasonable plan. Also, try to keep track of how long your down here. The events seem only to occur at night, and being here when the sun goes down seems like a very bad idea.
>>
No. 155092 ID: 362f0c
File 126992170082.gif - (4.67MB , 927x666 , map4.gif )
155092

>>151852
"We should start at the bottom, work our way up. He said they were fairly deep when..."

Clara says nothing and just looks away while absently rubbing her arms.

We descend.
>>
No. 155099 ID: 362f0c
File 126992237161.jpg - (191.71KB , 900x700 , 19.jpg )
155099

>>151852
We descend all the way until the bottom of the elevator scraps against a crude poured concrete platform, Clara pulls the handbrake before the motor starts laying down coils of cord on our roof.

Our lights reveal two paths of worn cobblestone, one cutting east and one west. Crumbled, collapsed, and embedded structures of graven stone line these gloomy pathways into darkness. I can feel a chill breeze from the west.

"This, this can't be right... we... we have to be hundreds... of feet down."

>"SAAAAAAAM!"
Clara's voice rings in my ears at these close quarters.

I can hear no reply. Should we go East, go West or split up to cover more ground?
>>
No. 155101 ID: 632862

>>155099
Examine the floor. It looks different.
>>
No. 155323 ID: e2020c

>>155099

No mind splitting up Not that we are scared to split up, but because there's time for being together...
>>
No. 155348 ID: 950529

COBBLESTONE?! WHAT?! Youre a hundred feet down!
Better split up to investigate more thoroughly.
>>
No. 155349 ID: e2020c

>>155099

Is that a marble pillar? Can't be. We're so deep there are no ruins this deep.
>>
No. 155630 ID: a56bd0
File 127000274559.jpg - (290.21KB , 700x750 , 20.jpg )
155630

"This... this isn't possible at all... even troy was only 50 meters deep. These pillars, solid marble from the looks, and covered in an unfamiliar script, they penetrate the floor and ceiling, there is no way this was hauled down here..."

>"SAAAMUEEEUL!"
Clara shouts again, the girl has a fine set of lungs I'll give her that.

"I doubt he can hear you, or perhaps he is unable to answer. Caves have a way of distorting sounds"

He voice takes on a slight edge of panic and frustration.
>"Well? Don't just sit there gawking at the rocks, we need to find my brother!?"

"This map shows a large chamber to the east, but the west is primarily uncharted... lacking a gut feeling on this I say we stay safe and check the east first."
>>
No. 155635 ID: 632862

>>155630
Go east, and stick together.
>>
No. 155660 ID: 9e9b47

Yes, go east. Dig at something interesting if you see it though.
>>
No. 158262 ID: 362f0c
File 127025954342.jpg - (145.48KB , 700x500 , 21.jpg )
158262

>>155660
As we move east I consider that since arriving in this town there is hardly anything that hasn't caught my eye as 'interesting.'

All of 'this' for instance... it looks as though the pillared walk somehow leads into an ancient pagan temple complex. Tiny marble statuettes of gods, strangers even to my studies, line the walls in nooks.

Even Clara is takes a moment from her single minded pursuit to gave around her for a moment.
>"What are all of these... did the miners? Why didn't they tell anyone?"
>>
No. 158305 ID: 3de05a

>>158262
Greed, probably. Look at those gems in the pillars. There were probably more gems before. Do not touch them though, and tell Clara not to as well.
>>
No. 158307 ID: 3de05a

>>158262
OHHH fuck what is that in the tunnel to Clara's left? Warn her not to step over the pillar before finding out what that is.
>>
No. 158321 ID: 15f6d6

Check the tunnel to Clara's right.
>>
No. 158322 ID: 15f6d6

Err, I meant Left. Left. There's a sparky thing.
>>
No. 158976 ID: 362f0c
File 127032601646.jpg - (96.53KB , 497x355 , 22.jpg )
158976

"Greed I'll imagine... it..."
A queer, almost premonitory, chill runs up my neck and I pull back Clara while sliding myself over the fallen pillar instead.

>"What erh yo-!"
"Shush."

I lower my voice.
"Something feels wrong, let me check this a moment."
>>
No. 159000 ID: e2020c

>>158976

Make sure not to step into a trap
>>
No. 159011 ID: 15f6d6

Use the Radiant Device.
>>
No. 159661 ID: a56bd0
File 12704260803.gif - (730.58KB , 442x639 , 23.gif )
159661

I slip the Radiance Device from my coat pocket muttering a silent prayer that my feeling is merely that, and that if it isn't the Device is the proper response.

>onetwothre- wait? How many fingers does your hand ha-?"

"hush I said."
I grip her shoulder a little tighter before pushing off and spinning to face around the corner.

"Ahah! erhm..."
>>
No. 159772 ID: 344ef9

>>159661
It's a weird statue. May as well have a closer look.
>>
No. 160299 ID: 15f6d6

Does the statue you passed up on the way mean anything to you? Also, what is it? A spikey pyramid... it looks bad. Maybe you should inspect it with a regular light first if the Device could do something bad.
>>
No. 160598 ID: a56bd0
File 127060690610.gif - (679.61KB , 700x600 , 24.gif )
160598

I step closer to investigate and see if I recognize the form from any of my cursory religious studies. However, like the rest of the symbols and statues here, it's exact identity is inscrutable to my trivial knowledge.

>"Uhg.. what is it?"

"I imagine it to be, like the rest of these scattered statures,some kind of primordial heathen idol. Likely depicting some kind of volcano deity if I had to guess by it's shape... and these piles of ashes."

>"It has such ah stupid looken face, but those stains..."

"Yes, we should try to find your brother soon."
>>
No. 160604 ID: 632862

>>160598
Dammit. Behind you! It's Radiant Device time.
>>
No. 160835 ID: e2020c

>>160598

Oh shit! Shit! Behind you! Quickly, use the radiant device, if it helps. That things looks like it hasn't seen light in a century.
>>
No. 160986 ID: 15f6d6

Shooting it with a regular gun would probably be more effective, but it doesn't look like we have time to draw a weapon.
>>
No. 161102 ID: 362f0c
File 12706997738.jpg - (230.50KB , 700x600 , 25.jpg )
161102

>>160835
"Ehh?"

>"Hey what's wro-"
>>
No. 161104 ID: 1ac39d

shoot it in the face.
>>
No. 161105 ID: 362f0c
File 127069996235.jpg - (163.10KB , 600x600 , 26.jpg )
161105

"OOOOHUUHHHAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaeeeeeeeee!"

The 'thing' behind lets out a wild howl degrading into a kind of shriek upon noticing our discovery of it's presence.
>>
No. 161106 ID: 1ac39d

from the fact it is holding a pick, i think it's a miner who has gone insane...
>>
No. 161188 ID: e2020c

>>161105

Maybe it's trying to give a warning. Or maybe it is a walking warn sign.
>>
No. 161218 ID: 15f6d6

Pull out your shotgun and tell it to stay back! If it doesn't then shoot it!
>>
No. 161371 ID: 7524b0

Don't even warn it. Just shoot.
>>
No. 162108 ID: 362f0c
File 127087788078.gif - (0.99MB , 700x800 , 27.gif )
162108

The next few moment seem to happen in a blur to me. The degenerate manbeast hefts its' pick and charges, howling as it comes.

I turn the device on it and for a moment a sickening pop and hiss of flesh is heard as it drops the tool.

"Shoot it! SHOOT IT NOW!"

>"I-I-I..."

Clara seems to have frozen in place, fumbling with both the lantern and the gun on her toolbelt.
>>
No. 162110 ID: 7524b0

>>162108
Kick it in the head.
>>
No. 162111 ID: 362f0c
File 127087802781.jpg - (292.70KB , 1000x600 , 28.jpg )
162111

Still the thing charges, buckled over in pain it stumbles for a moment and picks up more speed as I brace myself for the impact.
>>
No. 162112 ID: 1ac39d

it looks like some kind of control thing turned on when you used the device.
>>
No. 162113 ID: 1ac39d

DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOODGE!!
>>
No. 162114 ID: 362f0c
File 127087837394.jpg - (321.08KB , 1000x600 , 29.jpg )
162114

Clara lets out something between a scream and a roar as she swings... the lantern shattering into a thousand peircing fragments in its' face.

Flaming oil runs over the unfortunate abomination in a dazzling pyrotechnic display as it is hurled back by the force of the blow.
>>
No. 162118 ID: 7524b0

>>162114
Grab her gun and shoot it yourself. Or use the shotgun if you think turning off the Device is a good idea.
>>
No. 162384 ID: 362f0c
File 12709467429.jpg - (371.53KB , 800x700 , 30.jpg )
162384

>>162118
I doubt the Device is contributing anything significant at this point. I switch it off to conserve power and draw my shotgun as I approach the feebly struggling wreck.
>>
No. 162385 ID: 362f0c
File 127094679164.gif - (139.94KB , 400x600 , 31.gif )
162385

"Siloe in Pacis"
>>
No. 162399 ID: 7524b0

>>162385
Welp. Help Clara recover from the shock, then... I guess we investigate further.
>>
No. 163606 ID: 362f0c
File 127113813891.jpg - (299.54KB , 800x700 , 32.jpg )
163606

>>162399
"You going to be okay?"

>"I-I didn't mean to burn him..."
>>
No. 163612 ID: e2020c

>>163606

Ask if she needs to go back or if she can continue exploring the ruins. Also talk about with her if it's a good idea. She might have some considerable insight into it.
>>
No. 163622 ID: 7524b0

>>163606
"That wasn't a person."
>>
No. 163973 ID: 362f0c
File 127122236380.jpg - (182.78KB , 700x600 , 33.jpg )
163973

>>163622
I am myself unsure as to who or perhaps even what exactly that was.. some kind of hideously diseased pygmy or hairless ape maddened from isolation? Some kind of deamon even? Nevertheless, it 'would' be gentler on if Clara did not have the bear the thought right now of having beaten and burned a person to death.

"Clara, I don't know 'what' that was, but I do not think it was a person."

>"Then wha-

"Do you think you can stand? I would like to keep moving as that was rather noisy and... the stench."

>"Yes... yes I think so."
>>
No. 164298 ID: 7524b0

>>163973
Let's get going then. Hm, perhaps one of you could take the pickaxe. I say you should go back to the elevator and up a level, as if her brother was down here, he's surely dead.
>>
No. 164911 ID: 362f0c
File 127138448988.jpg - (217.17KB , 900x700 , 34.jpg )
164911

>>164298
I instruct Clara to take the pickaxe, just in case she actually seems to prefer bashing things rather that shooting them, and I lead us back to the elevator shaft.

As the elevator comes into view Clara suddenly stops.
>"Wait... we arn't going back up now are we?"
>>
No. 164917 ID: 7524b0

>>164911
"Would you rather go back and face more... things like that, hoping your brother is hiding deeper in? There's a much better chance of him being found alive if he's on a different floor."
>>
No. 164996 ID: 362f0c
File 127139176361.jpg - (213.45KB , 900x700 , 35.jpg )
164996

>>164917
"Would you rather go back and face more... things like that, hoping your brother is hiding deeper in? There's a much better chance of him being found alive if he's on a different floor."

>"So you're saying he's probably dead arn't you?"
>>
No. 165006 ID: 7524b0

>>164996
"If he was this far down... Do you want to keep going on this level? It's really up to you, I guess. We haven't found any signs of his passage yet. No bullet casings, no blood."
>>
No. 165063 ID: e2020c

>>164996

What if it gets worse deeper? It's worth the try anyways.
>>
No. 165517 ID: 362f0c
File 127148174066.jpg - (204.11KB , 900x700 , 36.jpg )
165517

>>165063
I personally fear there 'may' be some gradation in the depth of these horrors.

>>165006
"If he was this far down, I fear that may be the case. We haven't seen any signs of his passage so far down here, but if you want to keep looking"

>"Aron said they were jumped by something in the deep parts of the mines before they got split up, I'm-I'm afraid to find the answer I'm looken for... Sam's my only family here, and my only close family left."
>>
No. 165523 ID: 7524b0

>>165517
Ahh. Let's go back then. The monsters may have spread out in search of getaways. That one we ran into may very well have been quite a ways off from where the trouble happened.
>>
No. 165846 ID: 362f0c
File 127155710042.jpg - (215.75KB , 900x700 , 37.jpg )
165846

>>165523
"We can keep searching down here if that is what you would prefer? All I want to do is keep as many people safe as possible and find out what is going on here."

>"Thankyou... but we haven't seen any signs of-
>>
No. 165847 ID: 362f0c
File 127155718699.jpg - (201.62KB , 900x700 , 38.jpg )
165847

The sounds of faint and repeated gunfire echo from the west...

>"That could be him!"

"Perhaps.. but?"
>>
No. 165849 ID: 1ac39d

the thing didn't look anywhere near smart enough to use a gun. even if it's not him it has to be human.
>>
No. 165856 ID: 362f0c
File 127155785850.jpg - (204.95KB , 900x700 , 39.jpg )
165856

>"We've got to help him... come on."
Clara tugs me by the hand and starts running to the west... into the unmapped maze of corridors and passages.

As always in times of danger I sink back into myself, into that walking dreamstate of questions without any answers, where fear cannot find me.

Why is there a city under the stone?

What was that abomination and why did it react to my invention?...

Why didn't I turn back when I saw the lights?

Why am I even trying to help her, he's almost certainly dead? Why do I care?..

>>165849 Who said that?...
>>
No. 165858 ID: 362f0c
File 127155792181.jpg - (222.55KB , 900x700 , 40.jpg )
165858

..And why do I feel like I'm forgetting something?
>>
No. 165863 ID: 1ac39d

oh? you can hear us now? interesting. before we must have been whispers in your subconscious. anyway, the pale things found the elevator and are stealing it.
>>
No. 166015 ID: e2020c

>>165863

And there is nothing we can do about it because they are so many.
>>
No. 166017 ID: 1ac39d

of course, we can hope they try the dumbass way and climb the rope not jack the elevator.
>>
No. 166972 ID: 362f0c
File 127171288688.jpg - (79.77KB , 350x650 , 41.jpg )
166972

The roof continues to grow lower until I am almost sure we will be forced to crawl.

Yet without warning the ceiling opens up and we find ourselves in a series of crooked staircases, a twisty maze of passages all alike, yet no two the same.

The wind makes low moaning noise reverberating here and the staccato of gunshots echoing from a distance mingles with strange whispers.
>>
No. 166976 ID: 362f0c
File 127171310823.jpg - (93.30KB , 350x650 , 42.jpg )
166976

>>166017
>>166015
>>165863
"wait... what? behind us? the pale?..."

>Come on help me listen, I can't tell which way the sounds are coming from... SAMUEL WE"RE COMING!"

Clara continues to pull insistently on my hand as we descend...
>>
No. 167421 ID: 7524b0

>>166976
Start marking the walls so you know how to get back.
>>
No. 167456 ID: a56bd0
File 127180570457.jpg - (73.90KB , 350x650 , 43.jpg )
167456

>>167421
"Did you say? Uhm yes.. I should mark the walls... shouldn't I?"

>What? Come on, we need to hurry he's in trouble."

"We will need to find our way back..."

I didn't bring any chalk, and I doubt my pencil marks would show up well on these walls, thus I begin dropping loose change at intervals.

I hope there are no birds for these breadcrumbs...
>>
No. 167474 ID: 7524b0

>>167456
The pickaxe can mark the walls, right?
>>
No. 168087 ID: a56bd0
File 127189160713.gif - (522.19KB , 850x650 , 45.gif )
168087

"I supose it would but she's holding it and we-"

>"Who are you talken to-"

We are stunned into silence by the sight greeting us as we suddenly reach the edge of inconveniently vast, cylindrical chamber taken up primarily with a nigh equally inconveniently large pit descending into the earth.

There seems to be a kind of smooth path in the sides spiraling its way upward and downward. Many strange doorways open onto this path.

Roughly across and a little ways down the chasm from us stands the source of the gunfire... That is not Clara's brother...
>>
No. 168089 ID: 7524b0

>>168087
Assist them anyway!
>>
No. 168499 ID: a949d1
File 127195699235.jpg - (176.61KB , 500x675 , 46.jpg )
168499

>>168089
We move up to assist his defense. Upon approaching it seems he entertaining himself with every curse I have passing familiarity with... and a few I don't think I've heard before.

Damn, Fick dich! Hosenscheisser... ordure vas pisser dans les fleurs va chier fils de pute die inna fire en allez a enfer va a enfer Godverdomme Ik laat een scheet in jouw richting
you Ebn el Metanaka gamo to mouni pou se petage just drop an die fucker! As to thialo Fucking shield, will you? gellbourria salak!


>"Who the hell are you?"
Clara shouts as we make out way past the corpses to his stand.

He turns with a grin on his face, I think it's Mr. Fields.
Ahahah mes amis we meet again, a little help here Padre? My round is almost finished, his defense is holding strong, an oh here comes another bastard!
>>
No. 168504 ID: 2cbe3e

>>168499

Get to the act of saving post haste.
>>
No. 168557 ID: 7524b0

>>168499
Shoot the one behind him.

Note: You don't need to speak aloud to talk to us. We can hear your surface thoughts.
>>
No. 169040 ID: a56bd0
File 127206527590.jpg - (183.31KB , 500x675 , 47.jpg )
169040

>>168504
No, I was considering just leaving him to be mangled by abominations. Yes, of course I'm going to help him.

Clara springs into action, running forward and low along the edge of the walkway to reinforce Feild's position while I dispatch the sword carrying 'thing' behind him.

>>168557
Lovely... so you 'are' in my head? I was hoping it was just the wind. I don't suppose you would mind telling me who you are? No? Let me guess, it's finally happening, that old occultist's magic is finally taking my mind as well as my form? Or maybe I just cracked under the pressure of work? Perhaps I'm sitting in an asylum somewhere?
>>
No. 169043 ID: 7524b0

>>169040
No. We are merely part of the greater goings on in the world. We shall assist you for a time, then move on. Try shining the Radiant Device on that shield. It looks unnatural, maybe you'll manage to disrupt it.
>>
No. 169131 ID: 1ac39d

indeed, we have used many names, and we are not born of your mind. we are a traveler, and our most common destinations are people who can change the world.
>>
No. 171205 ID: a56bd0
File 127241923727.jpg - (180.12KB , 500x675 , 48.jpg )
171205

>"If you were planned on hitten anythen yah got ta AIM!"

Clara lays down covering fire as Feilds slides one one of the many box cartridges from his equipment belts into the machine gun.

>"See t'ain't so hard jest shoot out their shins"

[b] "Haha your fraulein has fire in her hands! I should have been knowing others would be after the treasure!"[b/]

>>169131
Hmmmm my very own guardian angels? 'change the world?" I should be so unlucky... I shall remember to watch my ego.

>>169043
I'll get on the Device as it's quicker than reloading, not to mention that weapon looks eletri-... my God! I'm still wearing dynamite!
>>
No. 171206 ID: 7524b0

>>171205
Oh yeah, the dynamite. Give it an underhand toss at the fucker behind the shield. Shooting the thing ought to set it off since it's covered in nitro.
>>
No. 171330 ID: 9cf63d
File 12724283478.gif - (783.80KB , 500x675 , 49.gif )
171330

>>171206
Only a madman would use explosives in such an enclosed and precarious position. It could collapse the walkway! The Device should be much safer here.

Besides, it isn't 'sweating' (I would have been blown to shreds already if it was.) I just need to keep him pinned and avoid his weapon.

Damn! More behind! Ehe! te faire voir chez lez Grecs! AHAHAH!

"I think we have this one!"

>"He's slippen! What is that thing?"
>>
No. 171509 ID: e2020c

>>171330

Examine the most improbable thing that seems to radiate cyan light...
>>
No. 171673 ID: 9cf63d
File 127252122660.gif - (614.84KB , 450x650 , 50.gif )
171673

>>171509
By that I presume you mean his shield? Yes I did plan to check that after he-HOLY CHRIST!

>"Look out he's"
>>
No. 171676 ID: 7524b0

>>171673
Duck!
>>
No. 171783 ID: 2cbe3e

>>171673

Damn, did he getcha?

If he didn't pop that dude in the mouth with a bullet
>>
No. 171977 ID: 9cf63d
File 127259654877.jpg - (163.76KB , 640x450 , 51.jpg )
171977

>>171783
NOTYETOHGODHEISFASTHELPMYGUNISSTILLUNLOADEDAND-
>>171676
DUCKINGNOWWHAT?!
>>
No. 171993 ID: 7524b0

>>171977
Grab the sword and STAB!
>>
No. 172376 ID: 9cf63d
File 127268925258.jpg - (166.81KB , 640x450 , 52.jpg )
172376

GRABBING
>>
No. 172377 ID: 9cf63d
File 127268927531.jpg - (166.95KB , 640x450 , 53.jpg )
172377

STABBING
>>
No. 172378 ID: 9cf63d
File 127268930784.jpg - (168.72KB , 640x450 , 55.jpg )
172378

...
>>
No. 172380 ID: a594b9

>>172378
Looks like it's dead now. Look around to check for more of them. Although from her behavior I'd guess that's the last one.

Take a breather.
>>
No. 172911 ID: 407b5b
File 127282769744.jpg - (160.51KB , 640x450 , 56.jpg )
172911

I release the sword and take a moment to breath busying my fumbling hands with reloading to distract myself. I have 16 shells remaining.

>Are you okay?"

"Uhm.. yes... yes I'm okay, Bruised my shins a little but I'm fine. He didn't even scratch me."

>"I thought shooting it in the hea-"

"I'm fine. It's okay, you should probably reload as well."

>>172380
I don't see any more from this direction, but Fields is still shooting intermittently. I would imagine they are reluctant to charge into his machine-gun fire.
>>
No. 172987 ID: 407b5b
File 127284881314.jpg - (148.79KB , 640x550 , 57.jpg )
172987

"Hey padre! I don't like this, they aren't advancing! I'm telling you now, something's up!"
>>
No. 172996 ID: a594b9

>>172987
Why are we still here? Grab that blue shield and let's backtrack through the tunnels.
>>
No. 172997 ID: 407b5b
File 127285172245.jpg - (151.67KB , 640x550 , 59.jpg )
172997

"I am ready."

"I dunno Padre, It feels a bit too exposed if you know what I mean?"
>>
No. 173003 ID: a594b9

>>172997
I see a red flash in the darkness of one of those side tunnels...
>>
No. 173004 ID: 1ac39d

HIT THE DECK!! one has a sniper rifle!
>>
No. 173464 ID: a56bd0
File 127301219219.jpg - (166.82KB , 640x550 , 60.jpg )
173464

>>173003
>>173004
"Sniper! Behind and above, take cover! Now! Clara, the shield!"

Gottverdammt!
>>
No. 174176 ID: 407b5b
File 127318201170.jpg - (178.51KB , 700x500 , 61.jpg )
174176

There is a sound between a whine and a thunderclap as a lance of fire strikes the stone walkway directly behind the scrambling Mr. Feilds.

My eyes can hardly adjust to the sudden and intense brightness after the hours in the cavern. I hear the weapon's shriek joined by the pained and enraged voices of even more abominations echoing throughout the cavern.
>>
No. 174181 ID: 1ac39d

shit, PLASMA cannon. that is so much worse.
>>
No. 174303 ID: 9cf63d
File 127320023361.jpg - (168.74KB , 600x500 , 62.jpg )
174303

>>174181
Plasma... as generated in a cathode ray tube? It makes a fearsome weapon it seems.

Even from where I stand I can feel the hot wind, as if someone had suddenly grown frustrated with the omnipresent cold wind in these tunnels and opened up a coal boiler.

I am surprised Elias Fields is standing, or rather, staggering towards us shouting something I can't here, or perhaps just shouting. I can hear Clara next to me shooting into the darkness above, no questions, just shooting.
>>
No. 174361 ID: a594b9

>>174303
Get into one of the tunnels for cover!
>>
No. 175624 ID: 407b5b
File 127344606361.jpg - (204.12KB , 638x497 , 63.jpg )
175624

>>174361
I can smell the powder, blood, and a sweet smell not unlike roasting pork. I can feel the heat and recoil as deliver another round. I can feel words unbidden rise to my lips. I can hear the pain groans and frantic rustle of pages behind me. I can hear the bestial shrieks and gibbering of the abominations as they begin to crowd the entrance. I can the whispers crowding in again. I can hear...

"He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day"

>"I'm out!"

"Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee."

"Dammit please be the right page, I don't want to... I won't die! I refuse I-I need... more power I don't.. dammit! I need to clear them! Give me your dynamite!

"Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked..."
>>
No. 175626 ID: 1ac39d

while it's not the best option, it's your only one, give him the sticks.
>>
No. 175846 ID: a594b9

Give him... one stick of dynamite for starters.
>>
No. 175972 ID: 6cd631

Give him a stick of butter.
>>
No. 176353 ID: d5c481
File 127363358968.jpg - (129.42KB , 550x400 , 64.jpg )
176353

>>175626
I don't like it but-
>>175846
okay, that sounds a little better-
>>175972
wait, what...but I don't even? Why do I feel like I should say something about someone's face? Nevermind.

I give him one stick.

"Now don't blow us all to hell."

"Don't worry about it Padre, we're already there."
>>
No. 176355 ID: d5c481
File 127363378279.jpg - (212.25KB , 550x500 , 65.jpg )
176355

>>176353
He faces the door, turns his head back and grins.

"Also... this is the part where you and your fraulien should be starting the running yes?"
>>
No. 176356 ID: 1ac39d

if a guy with dynamite says run, you run. GO GO GO!
>>
No. 177474 ID: 49b821
File 127388109297.jpg - (165.06KB , 700x497 , 66.jpg )
177474

>>176356
No need to tell us twice. Fields fortunately stays behind raving like a lunatic or perhaps some kind of hero? Regardless, I think Clara managed to pick up his gun.

"Ahaha Ich werde nicht besiegt wurmer! Siehe die kraft des Feurfeld familie!"
>>
No. 177624 ID: 49b821
File 127389793782.gif - (816.91KB , 500x500 , 67.gif )
177624

>>177474
Suddenly his voice takes on a vastly different tone, I can hear snatches of something chanted.

" -orbok...-gormor -arg-... -argon... Chattuhgh!

Looking back over my shoulder as we flee down the corridor I see... well I'm not really sure what I see. Somehow of it reminds me of, something, something I can't quite grasp yet-I-
>>
No. 177627 ID: 1ac39d

OH FUCK!! he just cast a spell on it, it's not just regular dynamite anymore, it's MAGIC dynamite!RUN FASTER!!
>>
No. 177803 ID: 49b821
File 127394702784.jpg - (5.90KB , 500x400 , 68.jpg )
177803

>>177627
I'll try but I-I-I don't think I can hear anything... I can't even hear my own breathing. I can feel, I can feel cold smooth stone dust and fabric, I feel very tired. I can taste blood.

I think I might be laying down, I'm not really sure. Can you hear me? Are the voices still there?
>>
No. 177804 ID: a594b9

>>177803
We're still here. Try to move around. Can you try to get your headlamp working again?

If not you may have to use the Radiant Device for a light source. Or did we have matches?
>>
No. 177809 ID: 49b821
File 127394768932.jpg - (5.79KB , 500x400 , 69.jpg )
177809

>>177804
My muscles feel like pudding, and I think that blood is a nosebleed. I must have been slammed against the ground when the explo- wait shouldn't my helmet have done something about that?
>>
No. 177810 ID: 49b821
File 127394771966.jpg - (5.85KB , 500x400 , 70.jpg )
177810

Oh damn! was I even wearing the helmet? I... I can't remember, and where's the Device?
>>
No. 177811 ID: a594b9

>>177810
What are those lights anyway?

Just try to rest a little, get your bearings, adjust your eyes to the lack of light, and figure out what you've still got on your possession.
>>
No. 177831 ID: 49b821
File 127395208396.jpg - (3.29KB , 500x400 , 71.jpg )
177831

>>177811
Yeah, I, I think I may actually still have that box of matches in my pocket. Wait, what lights I don't see any-?
>>
No. 177832 ID: 49b821
File 12739522306.jpg - (5.58KB , 500x400 , 72.jpg )
177832

Wait you wouldn't mean my eyes would you? Yeah they do that now, well ever since that incident with the former owner of this body.

Hell if I know why, doesn't seem to do anything. Why do you think I have the frames on these things so damn thick?
>>
No. 177835 ID: a594b9

>>177832
Perhaps you should remove your glasses then. Your eyes themselves can light up the darkness.
>>
No. 177909 ID: 49b821
File 127396460793.jpg - (14.04KB , 500x400 , 73.jpg )
177909

>>177835
You think so? They arn't much brighter than embers I imagine. You see I prefer not letting people know about my... peculiarities, they've had me run out of town before.

Regardless I think I have some matches in my pocket or something.

Wait, you didn't even know about my eyes what kind of watchful spirits are you? How long have you even been watching me? I mean do you gentlemen, or whatever you prefer to be called, have any clue as to what all of... all of this mess I've gotten myself in is?
>>
No. 177910 ID: 1ac39d

we arrived when the car dropped you off. anything you have not actively thought about or said we don't know about you.
>>
No. 177915 ID: a594b9

>>177909
Oh, alright then. May as well leave the glasses on.

Have you ever heard of the King in Yellow?
>>
No. 177916 ID: 1ac39d

>>177915
na, leave them off. being able to see SOMETHING is better then nothing.
>>
No. 177984 ID: 49b821
File 127397124381.gif - (23.32KB , 500x400 , 74.gif )
177984

>>177910
Ah I see. So you don't have any particular insight here I don't?
>>177915
Wasn't that some French play the Pope had banned and destroyed or something? I think I heard it mentioned in a 'heresies and cults' seminar. Why do you-?

Dammit what now?
...
Okaaay I'm getting my gun.
>>
No. 178393 ID: 49b821
File 127404726769.jpg - (3.87KB , 500x400 , 75.jpg )
178393

M'kay lets feel around here and...
I think that's that pickaxe... a
nd that's... a crowbar...
and that's... uhm... 'THAT' is not my gun.
>>
No. 178396 ID: 1ac39d

then what is it? we really need some light.
>>
No. 178398 ID: 49b821
File 127404746262.jpg - (5.26KB , 500x400 , 76.jpg )
178398

>"Mrverhuh?"

"Oh uhm... that's you!"

>"Hey!"
>>
No. 178399 ID: a594b9

>>178398
Ask if she's alright. Ignore any questions about your eyes.
>>
No. 178400 ID: 1ac39d

let me guess, you accidentally squished her boobs? anyway ask if she has any lights.
>>
No. 178487 ID: 49b821
File 127405602494.jpg - (5.87KB , 500x400 , 77.jpg )
178487

>>178400
It's dark I don't know.. maybe... probably.

>>178399
"Ah good you're alright I was looking for my gun, I saw some lights and-"

>"Well those are 'not' your shotgun, aren't you priests supposed teh be celibrate 'r somethen?"

"Celibate... That's Catholics my dear, technically we- I mean us Anglicans can marry."

>"Ahh well, 'm probably laying on't, least Ah think somethen's is diggen into my side."

"Oh uhm let's see here and uh."

>"Erh, nah I think it's whats-his-face's fancy bullethose. Suppose I get to keep it now't he's mine-salsa?"
>>
No. 178495 ID: a594b9

>>178487
I guess. Fumble around more and see if you can find that shotgun. Get a match lit, perhaps.
>>
No. 178557 ID: b14128

>>178487
Why not try going through your pockets? I think you said you had some matches in them, and there might be something else useful.
>>
No. 179076 ID: 49b821
File 127416074813.gif - (183.96KB , 500x400 , 78.gif )
179076

We fumble a little more in the darkness as I try and work the buttons on my cassock to reach the interior pockets.

"Yes I suppose you can keep his gun now, I suspect he is dead now and... what is a 'salsa'?"

>"It's a kind of thick sauce made from tomatoes n' peppers. Hold on there, I ken get up now if'n you'd"

"Careful with that knee I Ksshff!"

>"Sorry 'bout that."

>>178557
"Okay I have some matches here lets see if we can untangle all of this in some light."
...
>"erhm"
...
>>
No. 179079 ID: a594b9

>>179076
He's NOT DEAD.

How did he manage that?
>>
No. 179080 ID: b14128

>>179076
Behind you, mate.
>>
No. 179291 ID: 70b00c
File 127421484132.gif - (264.59KB , 640x500 , 79.gif )
179291

>>179080
>>179079
"Ehh?"

"Me, Die?
...
Fick Nein!

>>
No. 179313 ID: 1ac39d

ask him what spell he cast on the dynamite, if he plays dumb tell him you saw the lines of power.
>>
No. 179323 ID: a594b9

It was 'enchant weapon'.

A better question would be asking how he managed to survive the explosion.
>>
No. 179949 ID: 70b00c
File 127432586850.jpg - (62.76KB , 640x400 , 80.jpg )
179949

>>179313
>>179323
I'm not sure how confrontational you want me to get despite him being 'disarmed" given that he has already demonstrated dangerous powers. However I do wish to confront him on the matter. I shall attempt to do so tactfully.

"How did you manage to survive the blast?"

"I threw the dynamite and turned to run when the fuse was short. Surely you did not think I was to hold it ehh?"

>"Just who the hell are you and what are you doing here?"

"Above ground I but an amateur archeologist, considered a mere minor with pretensions as to the glory of my family. Here, I am a hero in the style of the old tales. Where things still lurk in the dark corners of the Earth there lies power and glory to be found for those with the will to take it!"

"May I guess that the nature of such power would allow a single stick of dynamite to bring down a cavern... without drilling? Or perhaps to survive said collapse with little more than a nosebleed when we were knocked down though having some distance on you?"

"Erm... just who are you again? I'm perhaps thinking that we may need a second round of introductions. No?"
>>
No. 180573 ID: 70b00c
File 127442009587.jpg - (63.64KB , 640x400 , 81.jpg )
180573

"-becasue I don't believe the lady and I have been itro-"

"Don't change the subject I saw the lines of power, you are dealing in powers man was not to."

"Not even a thanks for saving our lives? I might have considered running faster than you if I expected the Spanish Inquistion?"

"I have little patience for those who meddle in such unnatural forces... they've caused me more grief than-"

>"You two gonna to kill each other soon or are we gonna to figure out long we have to eat and drink... or sooner when the matches run out?"

"Ehaheh erm, I think that miss... uh?"

>"Clara, Clara Parker."

"Ahh yes I believe Miss Parker here has a point, and my gun if you don't mind giv-"

>"Think I'll be hangen onto it fer now, I've no more reason to trust you than him. Nearly got me blown away and now I'm separated from my brother 'and' trapped under miles of stone from the nearest kitchen."
>>
No. 180629 ID: 0b2a05

She has a good point. You need to work together and figure out how to get out of here. Check the perimeter first, feeling the walls might help.
>>
No. 180647 ID: a85626
File 127442612335.jpg - (24.40KB , 315x237 , spanish_inquisition.jpg )
180647

>>180573

NOBODY EXPECTS THE SPANISH INQUISITION
>>
No. 181500 ID: 70b00c
File 12745808485.gif - (195.28KB , 500x500 , 82.gif )
181500

>>180629
Fine, I don't like it, the guttering match cuts short my questioning in any case. I don't trust the oily bastard, but he may prove useful in that his smoking sheds some meager light.

I also note he came prepared for a fight perhaps he has some other, less dangerous knowledge, he may be willing to share about these caverns?
>>
No. 181508 ID: 70b00c
File 127458138356.jpg - (68.94KB , 675x400 , 83.jpg )
181508

>>181500
I tell Clara to hold for a moment while I search the collapsed section (I suspect she is trying to get a hold that curiously resilient shield and the miner's pick anyhow.)

The collapse seems to have been quite complete, I doubt we could shift by hand it with only a single pick between the 3 of us, not before we collapsed of exhaustion anyhow. Besides, with little light and a lack of proper supports it would be quite prone to further collapse.

I suppose we could try to use my remaining 2 sticks of dynamite? Or would you suggest preserving it and trying the unknown depths of this passage for an alternative manner of egress?
>>
No. 181532 ID: a85626

>>181508

What, you mean like, go the other way?

Yeah, do that.
>>
No. 181569 ID: 3afd1f

>>181508
Dynamite would probably collapse it even more. Just go the other way. Don't leave any of your stuff lying around this time, alright?
>>
No. 181579 ID: 0b2a05

Ask him if he knows anything about the place. If he doesn't want to answer, remind him that you all need to work together.
>>
No. 182859 ID: 70b00c
File 127481372049.jpg - (42.48KB , 640x400 , 84.jpg )
182859

>>181569
>>181532
Hmyes, I must agree abstaining from the dynamite would probably be in our best interest for now. Besides, one must consider that even if the blast managed to clear this exit, any surviving 'things' on the other side will likely be none too happy to greet us.

I also note that Field's back no longer shows burns on his flesh, despite the ruin to his jacket.

>>181579
"So tell me, what 'do' you know of this place?"

"I know this was in certain texts called "The City of the Golden Stair' an ancient civilization the power of which was destroyed by a earth-shattering battle which covered the land. that pit we saw back there was likely the fabled 'Eye to Eternity', said to have been the origin of the ruler's power, and the cause of such destruction, for from it they could call up limitless armies and treasures."

>"So you're thinken there may still be treasures left here?"
>>
No. 182874 ID: 70b00c
File 127481499336.jpg - (77.95KB , 640x400 , 85.jpg )
182874

"Yes, yes fraulein I do believe so, such treasures are not limited to mere gold and jewels either.

"And those 'things' back there? Perhaps some remnant of those armies the texts spoke of? Although I am surprised that they are still given the obvious age of this place, and more importantly that they haven't seen fit to rampage across the countryside?"

"As good an explanation as any, Padre."

At which Mr Fields gives a careless shrug and grin.

"I consider myself fortunate perhaps to find you, my man did not desire any part in crawling through caves. I cannot expect to carry all of this treasure back myself, ja? Do not worry, I may let you keep some for your own if it pleases you."
>>
No. 182966 ID: a594b9

>>182874
Mention the fact that he seems to heal rather fast. Ease up on the hostile overtones though. Make it more of a curious inquiry.

Note that you didn't see anyone else while entering the place. Is there another entrance besides the mines?
>>
No. 183407 ID: 70b00c
File 127489311674.jpg - (73.10KB , 640x400 , 86.jpg )
183407

>>182966
"You aren't in any pain from the blasts are you?"

"It burned, but I am well now."

"Don't want to talk about it?"

"Perhaps later Padre."

"It seems a handy trick, perhaps it will continue to be useful down here?"

To which he merely grunts in response. I change the subject.

"I don't suppose you possess the map to another entrance or something would you? I know you must have come down another way becasue I saw you leaving the mine entrance when I was waling up the hill."

>"Probably came in through the Ghostrock."

"Eh?"
"Huh?"

>"The butte on the way into town. It's where the ghostfire rises up on moonless nights. Old folks say the injun ruins there'r haunted. Them caves come down here down don't they?"

"Yes, yes they do..." Mr. Fields says quietly.
>>
No. 183810 ID: 70b00c
File 127493863246.jpg - (93.40KB , 650x500 , 87.jpg )
183810

We continue walking down the tunnel as Clara continues.

>"Mines started going strange 'bout 5 years ago. But they only let off the last workers a month or so ago. Do you think they knew? That they always knew what t'was they were diggin after? Keep the secret and keep the treasure? Do you think that-"
>>
No. 183815 ID: a594b9

>>183810
I SEE TEETH!
>>
No. 183821 ID: 1ac39d

full stop, pull her back if you have to.
>>
No. 184212 ID: 70b00c
File 127501420697.jpg - (79.56KB , 640x400 , 88.jpg )
184212

>>183815
>>183821
"Teeth?.. TEETH!"
>>
No. 184217 ID: 70b00c
File 127501440992.jpg - (53.29KB , 563x377 , 89.jpg )
184217

I pull Clara back from the lurking incisors of unusual size.

>"Hey what's the-"
>>
No. 184220 ID: 70b00c
File 127501461881.jpg - (57.97KB , 563x377 , 90.jpg )
184220

"There!"

I gesture towards the gaping jawbone of grand proportions.

>"Oh wow... that's uhm... that's... Well you don't see that everyday."
>>
No. 184223 ID: 1ac39d

get some light closer and see what's with them, if they are teeth but hooked to something dead then we will be fine.
>>
No. 184663 ID: 70b00c
File 127510325818.jpg - (177.97KB , 700x500 , 91.jpg )
184663

>>184223
I strike a match and bright light instantly glares off of white polished marble.

Oh yes, I would say these are certainly attached to something. We stand in awe for a moment as the flickering flame glistens off marble and what I suspect to be lazurite before Mr. Fields interjects with a clap of his hands.

"Mon Dieu! Ah, my apologies Padre I just do so love it when ruin builders have some style. None of this mudbrick and terra cotta nonsense this here is the real shit!"

"It is certainly has a homey air to it doesn't it?"

>"Who- who builds this kinda shit?"
>>
No. 184678 ID: 1ac39d

awesome dudes, well since this is a skull i think it safe to go through it. maybe stick the shield through first just in case.
>>
No. 184679 ID: a594b9

>>184663
It looks like there is a bit of a drop. Watch your step.
>>
No. 184876 ID: 407b5b
File 127515582050.jpg - (153.44KB , 650x650 , 92.jpg )
184876

>>184678
Testing the gap doesn't seem to prompt any reaction, although I probably could guess this after Fields blithely steps on through, his whistling echoing in the cavernous ceiling. I am beginning to doubt his claim to having experience in these matters.

>>184679
Actually there are steps... It looks as though the room's lowest level is filled with sarcophagi of the same white marble as the floor and skulls. The walls and vaulted ceiling are a dark blueish stone covered in engravings.

There also appears to be a central plinth and statue with arm and staff outstretched towards us.
>>
No. 184878 ID: 1ac39d

statue is a disguised lever, rotate it to point at a different skull and it will open up. maybe you will get lucky and they have been entombed with a favorite weapon or some-such.
>>
No. 185039 ID: 70b00c
File 127518414546.jpg - (94.30KB , 800x650 , 93.jpg )
185039

>>184878
Seems reasonable enough, and then my match goes out.. again. This is certainly troublesome.

"Hey Fields can you stop desecrating the dead long enough for us to try figuring out these doors? You are the one with the light."

"Ehh Padre this is not desecration.. this is-"

He pops the cork out of a glass bottle pulled from the sarcophagus, taking a whiff before a gulp.

"Ermuhmm this here is a science it is... archaeology. Why look at that I just learned something... these people here had some good taste!"

>"If your wanten to do more'n flail around next time we meet those 'things' you'd best get that light over here pronto."

"Bueno, Bueno, Senorita un momento por favor ehh? ...non mi rompere i coglioni donnaccia..."
>>
No. 185043 ID: a594b9

>>185039
That's not a nice thing to say. We can translate most languages, by the way.

We really need to find some way to make a torch or something...
>>
No. 185044 ID: a594b9

Are those figures on top of the Sarcophagi holding stuff we can use? The one next to the statue has something interesting.
>>
No. 186608 ID: 407b5b
File 12754326421.jpg - (93.62KB , 800x650 , 94.jpg )
186608

>>185043
That must be handy. All I know is Greek, Latin, and maybe a little Hebrew. I didn't really suspect him of being very complementary, but then it probably wouldn't be useful to call him out on it. Better he think me incapable of translation hmm?

>>185044
I'll lower myself to their level to get a better look.
>>
No. 186613 ID: 407b5b
File 127543338710.jpg - (80.11KB , 640x400 , 95.jpg )
186613

>>185044
No, no I'm afraid not. While the figure depicts a young maiden holding some kind of lyre I don't believe it to be anything more than a stone carving.

She must have died quite young, her face is serene in death and seems quite realistically graven in a classical style. The shadows that flicker with every breath Fields takes almost make it seem as though she is faintly smiling... Like a child playing at death and suppressing a grin.

Fields continues his looting, pulling out bottle after dusty glass bottle. He stops for a moment and turns to me.

"Hey eh toss me a match will yah Padre? I want to try out a little illumination trick my father told me about."
>>
No. 186914 ID: 407b5b
File 127551372760.jpg - (80.99KB , 640x400 , 96.jpg )
186914

"Fine, catch. Just don't blow us all to Kingdom Come with your little trick, becasue if I ha-
>>
No. 186915 ID: 407b5b
File 12755137806.jpg - (54.17KB , 500x500 , 97.jpg )
186915

*click*
>>
No. 186916 ID: 407b5b
File 127551387341.jpg - (59.02KB , 500x500 , 98.jpg )
186916

>>186915
>"Oh hey... that's new."
>>
No. 187045 ID: 1ac39d

suggest maybe looking in the box. perhaps it has a adamantine crossbow.
>>
No. 187399 ID: 2a421d
File 127561938025.jpg - (57.80KB , 600x600 , 99.jpg )
187399

>>187045
Adamantine? Wasn't that what Virgil said the gates of Tarterus were made of? Oh and I think John Milton said something about it used as the bonds of Satan...

Anyhow, I don't think something 'diamond-like' would make a good crossbow, no flex you see? The fracture and sheer stresses actually make diamond fairly brittle to impacts and such despite being the strongest material. Well that and the draw would be ridiculous.

Well I suppose you could abuse-a-hexagramic-arrangement-of-carbon-atoms-to-construct-materials-of-unparalleled-flexibility-and-tensile-stre... oh-and-a-gear-arrangement-for... but how the hell would that even, I don't?
>>
No. 187401 ID: 1ac39d

adamantine is weird like that. it is hard as diamond but it is a metal so it actually does have flex. it can be bent but the moment tension is released it springs back.
>>
No. 187771 ID: 2a421d
File 127567919719.jpg - (138.35KB , 650x450 , 100.jpg )
187771

>>187401
Regardless, This is certainly not a crossbow.

"How did you did you, did you touch anything?"

>"Well no, not really I dunno it just kinda, opened up when I tapped on it."
>>
No. 187772 ID: 1ac39d

try that raised button on the lower right. then try that raised arrow on the left. next try the circles with lines in them.
>>
No. 188203 ID: 407b5b
File 127575835121.jpg - (137.69KB , 650x450 , 101.jpg )
188203

>>187772
When I press down the raised arrow button the adjacent 'circle with squiggle' pops up.

However, I notice no obvious response... hmm perhaps the unit lacks power? Who knows how long it's been down here?
>>
No. 188205 ID: 1ac39d

try the other similar panels around the statue. maybe one has the powercore?
>>
No. 188206 ID: 407b5b
File 12757585286.jpg - (110.39KB , 640x400 , 102.jpg )
188206

>"It didn't do anythen, are you smiling, here?"

"I can smile when I want too. Besides, I like puzzles... always have. Regardless I think tha-"
>>
No. 188207 ID: 407b5b
File 127575869738.jpg - (133.50KB , 640x400 , 103.jpg )
188207

"Need a hand?"

>"Oh wow."

"Is that... why?"

"What?...Mummies burn well... It's all the oils they used."
>>
No. 188209 ID: 1ac39d

as long as it doesn't result in curses then fine. let's check out the other things nearby that look like this box, saw four spread around the stature, one may have a power core or something in it.
>>
No. 188213 ID: 1ac39d

wait, try putting some fire on that red gem, i mean directly have it touch the flames.
>>
No. 189185 ID: 2a421d
File 12758607325.jpg - (182.45KB , 650x450 , 104.jpg )
189185

>>188213

I do not think it did anything but scorch the surface. Want me to try the blue gem on the other side or shall I press another button?

"So... a thankyou is no?.. Bahh keep it. I shall be going check the other coffinz."

>"Imma go check out that statue, I'm thinken I might have an idea how this all works... feel free to come help when your done playing with the magic metal machine."
>>
No. 189187 ID: 1ac39d

>>189185
try flaming the blue gem then try pushing all four raised buttons at the same time!
>>
No. 189188 ID: 8bdb6a

Should the mummy hand have six fingers? Is that important?
>>
No. 189400 ID: a594b9

>>189188
I count 5. It's a left hand.
>>
No. 189444 ID: a594b9

>>189185
I see...

The circles with squiggles correspond to the skulls; when the arrow is raised then the skull is open. Try pushing down the southern circle with squiggle.

I wonder what that other raised button in the lower right is for? Don't push it.
>>
No. 189517 ID: 2a421d
File 127588721856.jpg - (125.01KB , 650x450 , 105.jpg )
189517

>>189444
Oh a new voice. yes we'd ascertained that already. But the unit does not seem to be functioning, lacks power I suspect...

>>189187
Hmmn, no repose the buttons move as expected but the skulls remain unmoving, I somehow get the feeling we may be going about this all wrong.
>>
No. 189520 ID: 2a421d
File 127588731573.jpg - (127.47KB , 650x450 , 106.jpg )
189520

>>189188
>>Oh and even more voices... you do just seem to drift in and out don't you?

wait... what? 1-2-3-4-
>>
No. 189527 ID: 2a421d
File 127588759099.jpg - (127.01KB , 650x450 , 107.jpg )
189527

-5-6-...

Wait let me recount that. 1-2-3-4-5-6...

"Oh God Dammit!"

>"Coulda told you the thing wasn't going to work... it's peic'a junk fer how old it's gotta be."

"You would be quite surprised madam. My father excavated many such ruins in his glorious career with fully operational traps as well as other such archaic systems of havoc and making merry."
>>
No. 189813 ID: 1ac39d

huh, so you have bonus fingers. oh well. try the other boxes around the statue.
>>
No. 189817 ID: 1ac39d

oh wait, try touching both gems at the same time.
>>
No. 189818 ID: 2cbe3e

DO THINGS THAT ARE IMPORTANT
>>
No. 190508 ID: 2a421d
File 127602455264.jpg - (99.04KB , 650x450 , 108.jpg )
190508

>>189813
Yes, it's yet another of the 'features' of the body that wizard trapped me in, or rather of his body I suppose, but it's mine now regardless so...

>>189817
Okay, yeah don't think that's doing anything. This feels very silly.

>>189818
I AM TRYING!
>>
No. 190509 ID: 2a421d
File 127602468577.jpg - (102.89KB , 640x400 , 109.jpg )
190509

Okay, I'm just going to let that thing sit for a while. Maybe inspect those other boxes, maybe this hand was just a fluke. Coincidences happen you know.
>>
No. 190510 ID: 1ac39d

get magic man to touch them both and put magic in them.
>>
No. 190512 ID: 2a421d
File 127602476743.jpg - (101.60KB , 640x400 , 110.jpg )
190512

"Yeah... Coincidences... fucking statue... fucking... fuck..."
>>
No. 190514 ID: 1ac39d

maybe all the great ones who are in here are six fingered? perhaps it is a sign.
>>
No. 190515 ID: a594b9

>>190512
Mess with the statue yourself. Put your six-fingered hand on it.
>>
No. 190736 ID: 2a421d
File 127605566026.jpg - (113.01KB , 440x550 , 111.jpg )
190736

Clara gasps as she pulls on the statue's staff.
>"Yer... telling me... damn thing moves but... there's no.... hold on..."

>>190515
As I place my hand on the graven white marble I can feel a faint trembling rotation as Clara heaves against the weight. The head of the statue was completely obliterated at some point. I would guess a heavy blow wi-
>>
No. 190737 ID: 2a421d
File 127605573011.jpg - (13.61KB , 400x400 , snap.jpg )
190737

SNAP!
>>
No. 190739 ID: 2a421d
File 127605584180.jpg - (97.97KB , 640x400 , 112.jpg )
190739

Clara looks in puzzlement at the broken piece of stone in her hands.
>"... Ow... Oh, now what?"
>>
No. 190740 ID: 1ac39d

hmmm, seems to be a little hole on the left near the base of the statue. if that yields nothing then tap the other four panel looking things open.
>>
No. 191739 ID: 2a421d
File 12762329273.jpg - (124.42KB , 640x400 , 113.jpg )
191739

I reach down to pull Clara up while commenting.

"I somehow doubt it was intended to be moved quite like that. But we t- I mean, I think I saw a hole in the statue's base so perhaps there should be some kind of handle lying about?"

Clara tosses aside the broken marble staff like so much tinderwood and looks up.

>"Erh thanks , didn't think it would jest snap like that, guess they don't make things like they used ta huh?"

"Hey lady why don't you come over here and open these crypts instead of ripping the statuary to bits ehh? They put some how you say, waxes or something to seal it up tight."

>"Are you dense or som'at? All the gold in thah world isn't going to make us anymore than the heaviest deaduns in here."
>>
No. 191744 ID: 2a421d
File 127623331343.jpg - (121.35KB , 640x400 , 114.jpg )
191744

>>190740
I check the base of the statue and find there are indeed two hexagonal holes on opposing sides of the statue.

>>191739
"You know lady... we 'can' just climb through the eyeholes? We are hardly trapped, In fact I think I just found some food. Anyone want some very old honey and perhaps a little 'Antico vino' to wash it down?"

>"Liquor n' honey jest makes yah drier idiot!"
>>
No. 191747 ID: 1ac39d

.... look up?
>>
No. 191873 ID: a594b9

>>191744
The symbols around the hole look like they're a button combination.

Push those buttons!
>>
No. 191875 ID: 1ac39d

>>191873
can't be, the symbol on the right and on top aren't on the panel.
check the other panels, maybe on will have the right button.
>>
No. 192761 ID: 2a421d
File 127638211632.jpg - (210.88KB , 650x650 , 115.jpg )
192761

>>191747
Don't really see anything, the ceiling is domed and to high for the torch to reach.
>>191873
>>191875
Checking the panels...
"Nope"
...
hrmm
...
Nuhuh"

Okay, he's what I see, all the panels are identical, in button arrangement as well as their lack of power. Perhaps the power was controlled from a different chamber? We don't even know what 'was' used to power them as the cases lack any further ornamentation... Hydraulics? Electricity? Springs and gears, steam? Slaves? Souls? Little green men with buckled shoes riding penny-farthings?
>>
No. 192762 ID: 1ac39d

oh well. see if you can rip the gems off the panel.
>>
No. 192766 ID: 1ac39d

no wait. near the platform is dead guy holding a a giant octogon bar that looks like it would fit in the whole.
>>
No. 192767 ID: a594b9

>>192766
Ah. That's right.
>>
No. 192769 ID: 1ac39d

also, hold it up and ask Fields if he seen any others while looting.
>>
No. 193351 ID: 2a421d
File 127647782470.jpg - (168.96KB , 640x400 , 116.jpg )
193351

>>192766
>>192767
Ah yes, and from the looks of it he's been here a good while. I think some the crypts over in this quadrant have been disturbed as well.

"Hey Fields!"
>>
No. 193353 ID: 2a421d
File 127647792262.jpg - (111.11KB , 550x400 , 117.jpg )
193353

>>193351
"Ja, what you want?

"Have you seen anything like this staff here over on that side?"
>>
No. 193357 ID: 2a421d
File 127647843098.jpg - (134.97KB , 550x400 , 118.jpg )
193357

>>193353
'Erh not as such no... where did you find it?
"A gentleman I believe to be some predecessor of your profession was clutching it in his cold, withered hand over here."

"Ahuh... damn, I was hoping to be the first this far. He have anything else?"

"Just a sword and some armor."

He sighs.

"Hokay dis is how it is, if it came from the sarcophagi then that sarcophagus' figure probably his holding a staff. It seems dey went so far as to hint as to the contents of their burials. Handy labeling no? If der is another in here the figure will probably have a staff."
>>
No. 193362 ID: 1ac39d

okay cool. hold your torch up and scan for any that are holding a staff.
>>
No. 194399 ID: 2a421d
File 127666078752.jpg - (166.21KB , 640x400 , 119.jpg )
194399

Hmm most of these caskets seem to have been cracked open already, I shall search a little further back.

Field's slithers over the walkway and begins to inspect the corpse's finds.

"I'll just take that if you don't mind signor? Hehe, one man's misfortune..."
>>
No. 194402 ID: 2a421d
File 127666107997.jpg - (88.97KB , 400x600 , 120.jpg )
194402

I find an untouched sarcophagus displaying a hooded female figure with a matching octagonal staff. I do not quite fancy robbing the dead, especially since I may be considered 'family' now.
>>
No. 194404 ID: 2a421d
File 127666117265.jpg - (95.33KB , 400x600 , 121.jpg )
194404

However, the wax seal breaks after a solid heave and I find what I came for and touch nothing else. Sliding the stone top back into place with faint grinding sound.

Now what?
>>
No. 194416 ID: a594b9

>>194404
Stick both rods into the holes in the statue.
>>
No. 194423 ID: aeade0

and then if need b twist the thing using rods as handles.
>>
No. 195152 ID: 2a421d
File 127683932147.jpg - (153.04KB , 640x500 , 122.jpg )
195152

>>194416
Easily done. Both Octagonal Staves easily slide into place and I hear satisfyingly mechanical click as they lock into the base of the statue.

The statue is now ready for moving, but I yet require the muscle with which to move it.
>>
No. 195154 ID: 2a421d
File 127683988115.jpg - (81.56KB , 400x500 , 123.jpg )
195154

"Clara come here, I think I have solved our door probl- have you been looting?"

She smiles and takes my hand to pull herself up.
>"Was jest taken a look. Lottsa gold n sech, but none of the rings fit my hands anyway... and Mr. Fields is horden all the necklaces."

"I prefer de term 'Portable liquidity'. Tis hardly my fault the dame has farmhands.
He interjects as yet another trinket clinks into his pile.
>>
No. 195158 ID: 2a421d
File 127684014732.jpg - (133.56KB , 600x400 , 124.jpg )
195158

"Our conquistador friend was kind enough to leave you a bag I see?"

"Eheh yes I uhm dropped my pack when the shooting started back in the Well. I was wondering how to carry this and well, opportunities do present themselves.

He shoots me a grin and pulls himself onto the walkway as we begin to turn the statue.
>>
No. 195161 ID: 2a421d
File 127684023517.jpg - (162.09KB , 650x650 , 125.jpg )
195161

Now we must chose a door... or skulldoor I supose.
>>
No. 195165 ID: aeade0

near as i can tell C looks like the best.
>>
No. 195533 ID: a594b9

>>195165
Ok, C. That leads past the edge of the 'map' so... likely it leads outside.
>>
No. 195665 ID: 2a421d
File 12769239331.jpg - (147.11KB , 650x500 , 126.jpg )
195665

>>195165
>>195533
I pull as Clara pushes and slowly but surely the statue comes about, creaking and the grinding of stone on stone can be heard.

I think I can also detect the sound of metal working and perhaps even the sound of water rushing down a new path as the whole of the platform trembles beneath our feet.
>>
No. 195670 ID: 2a421d
File 127692433788.jpg - (144.83KB , 650x500 , 127.jpg )
195670

Mr. Fields takes a moment to glance up and behind him at the slowing gaping jaw of the skull.

" Ahaha good, good! I do think it is working yes and with excellent timing, I can see the passage opening now."

I also note that the skull we entered though is shutting as well. The grinding sound continues to echo throughout the cavernous confines of the room though we no longer need to put pressure on the statue. I suspect now that this is a hydraulic over-ride of some sort.
>>
No. 195674 ID: 2a421d
Audio Sound-Effects_-_Scary_Laugh.mp3 - (780.03KB , Sound-Effects - Scary Laugh.mp3 )
195674

However... Grinding gears and water isn't the only sound I hear. It starts low, but as the grinding gives away I hear another... more sinister cacophony beginning to echo.
>>
No. 195675 ID: 2a421d
File 127692477883.jpg - (229.48KB , 650x500 , 128.jpg )
195675

With startling speed the embalmed corpses in the opened caskets begin to climb out and make their way towards the platform and walkways. I probably should have foreseen a hazard of such a ridiculous, albeit grim nature.
>>
No. 195678 ID: aeade0

god dammit. i think we know how that other guy died. anyway, i think a panel lit up, maybe a button will stop them' try the skeleton one.
>>
No. 195681 ID: b14128

>>195678
Or just... Y'know... Run like hell?
>>
No. 195682 ID: 0b2a05

...Seconding run!
>>
No. 195683 ID: 701a19

>>195675
Oh, quit being suck a baby; They weigh less than 25kg a piece, so just kick them away.
They'll burn damn easy too, so you can light them on fire if you like.
>>
No. 196478 ID: 2a421d
File 127707648017.jpg - (213.14KB , 650x500 , 129.jpg )
196478

>>195678
I check the panel... to no avail. The buttons do not respond.
>>
No. 196481 ID: 2a421d
File 127707656737.jpg - (261.09KB , 650x500 , 130.jpg )
196481

>>195681
>>195682
It is quite unfortunate that the majority of the opened caskets were on both sided of the path out. We will not be running out.
>>
No. 196482 ID: 2a421d
File 12770766614.jpg - (269.58KB , 650x500 , 131.jpg )
196482

>>195683
Okay... lets try that.

"Hey, You!"

I call out, gesturing to the one with a missing arm.
>>
No. 196486 ID: 2a421d
File 127707688425.jpg - (130.23KB , 400x650 , 132.jpg )
196486

>>196482
I step forward and draw a breath, steeling myself for the inevitable charge.

"I've got something of yours."

My torch twitches and flexes in response lacking the reach to do anything else.
>>
No. 196937 ID: 407b5b
File 127716195490.jpg - (103.69KB , 640x400 , 133 .jpg )
196937

I have their attention.

The armless one lets out a wild howl and lunges forward as another begins to withdraw a lengthy dirk from it's wrappings.

I can hear Fields muffled and frantic struggles from beneath a pile of moldering, spiteful flesh. The maniacal chuckling increases as the horde begins to charge me piecemeal. Unsure if I will serve as a challenge or merely another plaything.
>>
No. 196941 ID: a594b9

>>196937
Toss the torch into the pile Fields is in. That should set them on fire, and Fields can take advantage of that to escape. Uh... unless they don't feel pain; then that would wind up in slow-baked Fields.

Use your gun as a club against the fragile bones of your enemies.
>>
No. 196964 ID: 4590c4

Don't assume these things are fragile. Maybe they were weak while they weren't up and moving, but these aren't natural creatures. The only rule that might apply is dry=flammable.
>>
No. 197129 ID: 0b2a05

>>196941
He survived magical dynamite, throw the torch.

This is as good a time is any to see if beheading them will kill them. Shoot 'em in the face.
>>
No. 197995 ID: 2a421d
File 127735859633.jpg - (108.97KB , 640x400 , 134.jpg )
197995

>>197129
>>196964
>>196941
When faced with new something new and strange there is only one way to learn more of it.
Let us... experiment.

"Fetch."

I toss the firehand over the side and into the fray, like a frantic dog the armless one is momentarily distracted, unable to make up it's mind what to run for first.
>>
No. 198002 ID: 2a421d
File 127735894676.jpg - (124.37KB , 640x400 , 135.jpg )
198002

I make it's mind for him... or her? Probably a her due to the pelvis. I was taught a a child never to strike a lady, but fairly sure the dead no longer count.

There is a satisfying dry crunch and snap as both the lower spine and skull of the cadaver is shattered. A bright blue fire erupts from the wounds as the body struggles under the blow.
>>
No. 198007 ID: 2a421d
File 127735939275.jpg - (131.55KB , 640x400 , 136.jpg )
198007

I loose a volley of pellets from the right barrel into the face of the next nearest, utterly shattering it's red porcelain mask as well as removing it's head and a good deal of it's shoulders.

As before a heat-less blue essence rises up and the laughter of the mummies has taken on a rather more frantic, unsure tone. Like a room full of high-class people tittering whilst looking at each-other, unsure if they should be laughing at a rather rude joke somebody has just made.
>>
No. 198010 ID: 2a421d
File 12773601239.jpg - (125.05KB , 640x400 , 137.jpg )
198010

By now the crowd surrounding Fields on my right side of the walkway is in full panic flailing about as the flames consume them like tinder.

Fields himself has risen from the pile a little worse for wear and roaring angrily in German as he slashes wildly about himself with the Dead Spaniard's saber.

I join his shouting to try and drown out the maddeningly continual, if now enfeebled laughter of the mocking dead.

"...the multitude of thy strangers shall be like dust, and the multitude of the terrible ones shall be as chaff that passeth away: yea, it shall be at an instant suddenly. Thou shalt be visited of the LORD of hosts with THUNDER, and with earthquake, and great noise, with storm and tempest, and the FLAME of devouring fire..."
>>
No. 198121 ID: e2020c

>>198010

Hit the nearest abomination down from the stand with the back of your shotgun
>>
No. 198170 ID: a594b9

>>198010
Watch out for that one by your feet. Don't wanna let it grab ya.
>>
No. 199060 ID: 2a421d
File 127752329686.jpg - (129.07KB , 640x400 , 138.jpg )
199060

The burning mummies are crackling quite merrily as their bones and ligaments fragment from the heat, however the air in here is starting to get a little smoky.

>>198170
I kick away the struggling pelvis and grind the ribcage of the one-armed into powder as I ready up a swing.
>>
No. 199061 ID: 2a421d
File 127752356047.jpg - (136.76KB , 640x400 , 139.jpg )
199061

>>198121
...and that was a pretty good run if this was cricket.
>>
No. 199063 ID: 2a421d
File 127752382180.jpg - (123.78KB , 640x400 , 140.jpg )
199063

...but I don't think the other team is very keen on my style.

They leap on the gun and I find out shortly that while they are incredibly light, they are very strong, leathery, and capable of cooperation.

It is struggling just to keep them from setting off the trigger on the second round and disemboweling me at this range, and yet more are crowding near to perhaps pull me off the ledge.
>>
No. 199065 ID: a594b9

>>199063
Yank the gun over to the side so that they shoot the mummy crawling up behind you.

It looks like Fields is having a bit of trouble. Perhaps you should lend him a hand.
>>
No. 199092 ID: 57b4a3

remove glasses, fire laser vision.
>>
No. 200108 ID: 2a421d
File 127769797147.jpg - (151.76KB , 640x400 , 141.jpg )
200108

>>199065
Yanking the barrel to the side the shotgun's second round is triggered, shattering the clinging corpse as the pellets narrowly miss my leg.

I am furious, they tried to use ‘my’ gun to kill me! I fling them and the now expended weapon down with a shout, shattering many of their bones.

"For Christ and Country!"
>>
No. 200109 ID: 2a421d
File 127769801666.jpg - (213.92KB , 640x400 , 142.jpg )
200109

“With Power and Profit.”
>>
No. 200110 ID: 2a421d
File 127769806923.jpg - (209.15KB , 640x400 , 143.jpg )
200110

>"From fear and family..."
>>
No. 200111 ID: 2a421d
File 127769812927.jpg - (93.53KB , 382x435 , 144.jpg )
200111

Yellow (Jublient): “ohh I think I rolled doubles… now lets see 20 round mag… uhm what’s the penetration on a Thomson again, the crit counts against all penetrated targets yes?”

Orange: “Yes, and do not forget to reduce the recoil modifier due to the fore-grip and but-stock”

Green (Dismissive): “Don’t worry ‘bout it, she’s a trained shooter and the strength mod makes it irrelevant anyhow”

Blue (Concerned): “Dat’z fiver six l3ft wez thinken now. Kay w3 cun do diz.”

“Orange: “Don’t forget to tick off fire damage there”

Blue: “Oh… erh, yeaH. Damn… Erh Red l3ttle halp plz? I’z goofed…

Uhm Red?”
>>
No. 200113 ID: 2a421d
File 127769828431.jpg - (72.29KB , 500x375 , 145.jpg )
200113

Violet: "Heey Reeed~?"

Red: "Oh, I see... I see you."
>>
No. 200117 ID: a594b9
File 12776984708.jpg - (24.25KB , 400x365 , Trollface.jpg )
200117

>>200113
Red: Problem, officer?
>>
No. 200448 ID: 407b5b
File 127776281061.jpg - (100.41KB , 382x435 , 146.jpg )
200448

Red (Coldly): "Blue I told you the mummy trick wouldn't work twice, but it seems if you need something done you have to do it yourself."

Blue: "BUt it wuz so awsum B4, why they gimp it now?"

Orange: "Maybe, if you would pay attention to the setting rules instead of dicking about with whatever the hell you feel like throwing in you would have noticed noticed 'suddenly firearms, firearms everywhere~'."

>>200117
Red (aside): "I'll be watching you now, don't delude yourselves that little guessing games and matchmaking can stand against the might of a Trump Major... but of course you newfags wouldn't wouldn't get this."
>>
No. 200455 ID: bcf25c

>>200448

Except, perhaps, for the joker.
>>
No. 200525 ID: a594b9

>>200448
Yellow: What's a Trump Major? Red referred to being or having one.
>>
No. 200535 ID: a594b9

>>200448
Red: Hah, newfags? We've been around longer than you can even comprehend. We assist Yellow merely because it amuses us. Perhaps if you put forth the proper bait, we might be convinced to switch sides...
>>
No. 200593 ID: 2a421d
File 127778142316.jpg - (110.72KB , 382x535 , 147.jpg )
200593

Yellow: (aside) "Wait what? A Trump! How did they get their hands on the Major Arcana this early in the game? This is... I-I only have one face card!"
>>
No. 200594 ID: 2a421d
File 127778171018.jpg - (73.94KB , 382x435 , 148.jpg )
200594

>>200455
Red: (Aside) Oh the Fool's Gambit? Well you know what they say, 'Fools rush in...'

>>200593
I know enough to know that lures are for rabbit traps, a hunter of true strength has no need of guile, and I know enough about 'you' that rabbits are never worth trapping."
>>
No. 200599 ID: a594b9

Yellow: It could be a bluff. What kind of resources do you have right now?

Red: Ah, but power is even better with the right leverage. What if the rabbit had sharp teeth? Nasty, big, pointy teeth! Why it could bite your head clean off. What would you do then? You'd have quite a lot of trouble catching the little bastard. Plus you'd have no head!
>>
No. 200602 ID: c4c313

>>200594

Red: I don't know if anyone has ever mentioned this before... but... but... YOU'RE A KITTY!!
>>
No. 200699 ID: bcf25c

>>200594

Red: KITTY!
>>
No. 201550 ID: 407b5b
File 127794177088.jpg - (81.81KB , 382x435 , 149.jpg )
201550

Yellow:(aside) "Hmm I-I ah 'might' be able to block a Trump's effect with my 'NO' card, but it won't remove it from play."

Red: (aside) "I fail to see how my form is relevant to our interactions. Enjoy your fates..."

Red (aloud) "My turn soon stalker."

Yellow: "Really, whe-"
>>
No. 201557 ID: 407b5b
File 127794245634.jpg - (175.17KB , 700x450 , 150.jpg )
201557

>"Oh hey now, after you're done with that pile ther couldja be a dear n' help me with the straps on this armor? I've loosened em up, but the hitch's in the back and I can't quite get it and hold it on at the same time."

We've gathered up most of the flailing corpsebits and thrown them into a merrily crackling pyre and I feel the now familiar whispering at the edges of my perception
>>
No. 201559 ID: a594b9

>>201557
We need to move. Get out of here. Something bad is coming. Something you have no hope of fighting! Grab everything and run!
>>
No. 201560 ID: d76879

well then. with that taken care of let's do one last sweep of the area and move out.
>>
No. 201660 ID: c4c313

Definitely run! Also the mummies are being lead by a total doofus. He'll screw you over if you give him an opening, but otherwise he's pretty predictable. BUT HE IS NOT WHAT IS COMING.
>>
No. 202283 ID: 2a421d
File 127810426050.jpg - (163.61KB , 700x450 , 151.jpg )
202283

>>201560
I noted that only the sarcophagi Field's opened allowed their occupants to stir from their slumber. However, there is little else here we- erh I mean I have not already examined.

>>201559
>>201660
>"Oh! hey not so-"

"We need to move, now."

I agree, undead are likely a warning, rather ineffective in combat, but very noisy. What with all you know, the laughing."

>"Well jest let me reload then 'nd we'll be off, how much shot you got left?"

"I have fourteen rounds left."
>>
No. 202286 ID: 2a421d
File 127810503320.gif - (310.71KB , 700x500 , 152.gif )
202286

I note that Fields has taken the Spanish saber for himself and Clara still has the shield and pick should she need it.

I select a fresh torch from a few mummified limbs wrapped together, I suppose we could use the dynamite and collapse a tunnel if something truly dangerous is coming for us now, and did you say they were being led? I did not notice a leader among them.

Regardless this new passage was is, well it's quite a shift from the austere and sterile crypt. The walls are lined in stone panels depicting dark, curly headed youths and healthy young women engaged various modes of pleasure beneath an endless forest of gold and a star-filled sky.

A bright, white light catches the end of the tunnel in a regular fashion.
>>
No. 202307 ID: 7324e7

you know the phrase 'when the gods play dice'? well right now the gods are playing a game, one of them was using the mummies as his game piece. stay on the look out for traps, would be just like them to have a pitfall right in front of the stairs.
>>
No. 202350 ID: c4c313

>>202307

That might be true. Or it might just be a bunch of odd creatures playing a game. But what I know is, it's a metaphor for premonitions we may receive about upcoming events. How real it is I can't say, but I can say that "Red has a Trump Major, and his turn is coming soon" means something big is coming, and it's out for your heads.

"Led" is something of a stretch I guess. Suffice to say whoever set up that mummy trap didn't anticipate the existence of firearms, and probably doesn't plan ahead too much. But that's only one player in the situation, and others are much more dangerous.
>>
No. 202858 ID: 2a421d
File 127821240532.gif - (365.59KB , 700x450 , 153.gif )
202858

>>202307
>>202350
So you have some kind of deeper understanding about the forces at work here which may or may not be metaphorical after all? Sounds, vaguely helpful, if perhaps holding the possibility for misinformation (intentional or otherwise.)

The hall ends in what looks to have been some kind of waiting room. It looks vandalized and stripped of most ornamentation, though a few rags and bones litter the floor.

There is a large and formerly ostentatious chain bridge here extending out over darkness, Fields creeps up near and eyes it, testing the the first step carefully with his hands.

"Gold leaf over... bone, perhaps Bakelite?"

>"Musta been pretty rich here sometime back 'nd from the look ah the pictures back there had -emselves a regular time at it too."

"Perhaps they debauched themselves to death? Like Babylon, too soft to control their city."
>>
No. 202859 ID: 2a421d
File 127821266649.gif - (514.03KB , 800x400 , 154.gif )
202859

The chain bridge extends ghostlike over the expanse, trailing tatters of ancient banners as great and strange lighthouses turn endlessly about the never-ending night.
>>
No. 202861 ID: aa4289

if anything were to go wrong right here is when it would. go slow and tie yourselves together. if something breaks the other two can cath the person.
>>
No. 202880 ID: c4c313

>>202858

We didn't mention it before because it did seem a bit sketchy and of questionable use. It was only recently that it seemed to become suddenly very relevant and deadly.

It's amazing looters made it even this far. Perhaps there was another way in, or some way to stop the mummies from activating.
>>
No. 203706 ID: 2a421d
File 127835879318.jpg - (159.13KB , 700x450 , 152.jpg )
203706

>>202861
"If we had rope perhaps we could tie ourselves together so if one of us fell the others-"

"No! I mean... we don't have any rope..."

I notice Fields seems visibly shaken as he sets back a moment and gulps down a deep draught from his canteen.

>"It's a long way down, the light don't catch the bottom. Bridge seems good 'nof though."

>>202880
If I had to guess I would say the origional inhabitants of the city may have caused some of the damage, perhaps before it was buried. Although, something about how this city is buried, yet still functioning in a way does not make much sense with any appropriate timescale.
>>
No. 203739 ID: c4c313

>>203706

If a civilization arose that gained the power to completely destroy themselves, how would you ever know? Don't underestimate old stuff.

It seems Fields would rather die than have his life hanging in the balance with yours. How odd. Anyway, continue down the bridge.
>>
No. 203848 ID: 6faf8a
File 127838138382.jpg - (85.95KB , 700x450 , 153.jpg )
203848

>>203739
We proceed to cross the bridge, Clara and I take the lead, while Fields moves somewhat ponderously behind us.

>"Uh, air is awful in here. You smell that?"

"Stagnant, rotten really, probably bats or somesuch creature calls this home."

>"Are bats really blind I wonder, wouldn't theh just hit the walls?"

"I wouldn't know, never asked one."
>>
No. 203850 ID: 713d7f

bat's are not blind, their eyesight is just very weak. and they see via echolocation. a method of seeing by hearing. it's complicated but needless to say bat's don't need light to navigate.
>>
No. 203851 ID: c4c313

>>203848

Bats aren't blind. They have tiny eyes though so people think they look blind. They avoid running into walls in the darkness by screeching really high and avoiding the resulting echoes. Echolocation.

Why is Fields moving so slowly? Is he just nervous, or is he really struggling to stay upright? He's not super heavy or anything, is he? Also I...think there's something below the bridge...
>>
No. 203852 ID: 1e9d01

>>203848
It seems as though Mr. Fields is afraid of heights. Look after him, won't you?
>>
No. 204415 ID: 6faf8a
File 127847961538.jpg - (156.58KB , 640x400 , 157.jpg )
204415

>>203850
>>203851
That is quite interesting, if somewhat inapplicable in our current situation.

While he has loaded himself up with valuables Fields didn't show any signs of slowing before the bridge. We've reached about the middle and he's at a snail's pace, creeping along, clinging to the the railing.

>>203852
Yes, yes of course, I must help him. I pass Clara the torch and go back.

"Fields, do you need some help?"

"I-I can't, I just..."

"Look just hold on, I'm coming, you should hav-"
>>
No. 204417 ID: 6faf8a
File 127847999914.jpg - (158.05KB , 640x400 , 158.jpg )
204417

He slips, his sack of valuables spilling between the over-sized slats.

For a moment he heaves and I'm afraid he may dive off after it, instead he vomits and I catch a whiff of the acrid bile as I steady him.

"Look, no, don't look down look at me. You are 'not' going to fall. Just don't look down, there is nothing to see there."
>>
No. 204422 ID: 08aa7e

just get him up and keep moving. promise that when we tell the story we will just skip this part.
>>
No. 204432 ID: c4c313

Think of your hands. Feel your hands holding the railing. Strong hands. You can do this. Just keep thinking about the feeling of your hands holding the railing.
>>
No. 204558 ID: e2020c

>>204422

After see if any of the valuables can be still saved.
>>
No. 204694 ID: 6faf8a
File 127855334697.jpg - (271.22KB , 640x640 , 159.jpg )
204694

>>204558
Not likely we can't even see how far they fell. Regardless, he is still wearing enough expensive looking jewelery to make the Queen blush.

>>204422
>>204432
"Just think of your hands, not the fall, not the treasure, just your hands and how strong they are. We're going to skip over this part when we tell the story of course.

We'll come back with workers, and equipment and lights. Think of that, the 8th wonder of the world. You will be famous. We just have to keep moving"

"Thankyou.. I just... heights... the air.. and-and that damn light keeps..."
>>
No. 204698 ID: 6faf8a
File 127855358117.jpg - (301.60KB , 640x640 , 160.jpg )
204698

His head jerks up and his eyes snap open as he fixes his gaze somewhere behind me.

"Oh God... The light, The Light has stopped moving. It's just STOPPED!"
>>
No. 204700 ID: df7322

oh damn, pick the sod up and book it. we need to get off this thing yesterday!
>>
No. 204701 ID: 6faf8a
File 127855379883.jpg - (153.81KB , 640x640 , 161.jpg )
204701

"Ehh?"

His voice hisses in panic as I turn to see the light from the nearest tower is indeed focused directly at the two of us.

"They're watching us... They are aware! We have to move, NOW! RUN!"
>>
No. 204703 ID: 6faf8a
File 127855399374.jpg - (85.50KB , 700x300 , 162.jpg )
204703

Fields leaps forward, I hear a kind of snap and he's suddenly running faster than I've ever seen anybody run.

>"Wait, what's goen on? What's happening?"

"I don't kno-"

"RUN!"

The light is still tracking him.
>>
No. 204704 ID: df7322

move move move. he must be using some kind of speed boost magic.
>>
No. 204705 ID: c4c313

>>204703

You heard the man. Cheese it! Shit is about to get real! Don't stop now!

If the light shines on you though, fire a bullet at it. This is a hunter you're dealing with. Running away just makes him chase faster.
>>
No. 205130 ID: 6faf8a
File 127864698639.gif - (142.05KB , 650x650 , 163.gif )
205130

Extracts of 90 year old Sec Data Core Log on the first day of 'The Incident" at Site 'B'

Log is approximately 3 seconds concerning the decision processes engaged in the firing of Luminary Tower 16 in what is now the Alpha Lab Gardens next to the Specimen Housing Center.

Findings are... not quite as expected.
>>
No. 205141 ID: 6faf8a
File 127864816142.jpg - (108.43KB , 700x500 , 164.jpg )
205141

>>205130
I hear a whine and sudden mechanical shriek as Fields is lost in the glare of a crackling shaft of obliterating energy, board are blasted to bits and chains spit sparks as the pyrotechnic spectacle sweeps back along the bridge, towards us.
>>
No. 205146 ID: c4c313

>>205141

THEY'RE SWEEPING THE WHOLE BRIDGE WITH THAT THING JUUUUMP
>>
No. 205289 ID: e2020c

>>205141

Might be a good time to try save the rest of the valuables!!!
>>
No. 205439 ID: 6faf8a
File 127870345097.jpg - (106.38KB , 400x700 , 164.jpg )
205439

>>205289
>>205146
We jump, we fall... God if you are there... I would like to land on something soft... if that be your will.

Preferably not those valuables...
>>
No. 205441 ID: 6faf8a
File 127870357970.jpg - (155.46KB , 400x700 , 165.jpg )
205441

RED: "HA! HA! HAH!... fooolish pilgrim, your tale has come to an end here. For I Red hav-"
>>
No. 205442 ID: 6faf8a
File 127870361147.jpg - (166.09KB , 400x700 , 166.jpg )
205442

Yellow: "NO!"
>>
No. 205444 ID: 6faf8a
File 127870373925.jpg - (63.31KB , 500x600 , 167.jpg )
205444

No... I will NOT die here!"
>>
No. 205447 ID: c4c313

>>205444

What? What did you grab onto? Try to get a foothold! Grab that cable!
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