How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/04(Wed)03:05 No. 215451 ID: e31d52
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>>Important things to know with Samantha

>Samantha is primarly a melee fighter. She is capable with most weapons, both military and simple, most armors, and is very strong.
>Samantha is capable of Forms, Stances, and Styles.

>Forms are special and require the Teacher's item to use. Each enemy who is slain more than three times grants you a new Form, based on creature type. Unless otherwise stated, you must be unarmored to use a Form, though weapons can be used. You have the following Forms:

>Stone Sentinel: Roots the user in place, boosting defense and damage reduction capability. May be used with any armor and weapon. '

>Slithering slime: Allows the user to become truly transparent, aids their stealth and unarmed strikes.

>Obstinate Ooze: User becomes slightly see-through, and gains a large amount of damage reduction, as well as a damaging touch.

>Striking Skeleton: User gains an immense amount of striking power with bladed weapons, at the cost of bone fragility.

>Stances are nonmagical abilities that can be used at any time. even during Forms.

>Sylvan Strike Formula: Allows for increased evasion, as well as heightened peircing power.

>Kurduz Sheild Formation: Allows for increased defensive ability and stronger smashing damages.

>Taunting Torguz: Causes enemies to attack you more often.

>Styles will be explained later, and are similar to Specializations.


"Sam. Sam, wake up. Sam."

Nnnn.... just a little longer...

>>215451
On your feet lady. A warrior should be ready to get up and fight at any god damn time. If it had been someone hostile coming at you then you would have been dead now. So get up and see what it's about.

maybe you should get up now? while taking a rest is fine, remember you have a angry robot thing after you?

Use the Slithering Slime form and reply "I'm not here, let me sleep"

M'lady, if you should hope to be a proper Paladin, you'll have to discipline yourself! Up and at 'em!

Young lady, you should be ashamed! DISCIPLINE! YOU MUST HAVE DISCIPLINE! WAKE UP THIS INSTANT!

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/05(Thu)10:49 No. 215789 ID: e31d52
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>>Before the next update, we need to decide what those "Simple clothes" look like!

>>Yay paperdoll

GL12!JQq0cR/.GM 2010/08/05(Thu)11:41 No. 215797 ID: eededc
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What about something like this? Maybe a darker blue. A royal blue with gold accents. Not too fancy, but still decent, I guess?

Suggestion 2010/08/05(Thu)12:00 No. 215799 ID: 40cb26
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>>215797
How about this?

Suggestion 2010/08/05(Thu)12:06 No. 215801 ID: 526102
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Sleep Deprivation- the confusing killer.

Suggestion 2010/08/05(Thu)12:08 No. 215802 ID: a594b9
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>>215789
Dungeon Serpents rule!

GL12!JQq0cR/.GM 2010/08/05(Thu)12:31 No. 215803 ID: eededc
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How about this. The little knife sheath is optional. as is the ribbon.

>>215799
Something like this would work too. Or maybe just a robe with a slit on each side (manually made? :3) for movement and a strip torn off a sleave to tie up her hair.

>>215799
Only if it has a yellow 13 on the back.

>>215451
Wake up, Samantha. Your betrothed wishes to rouse you.

How do I shot Trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/07(Sat)08:47 No. 216104 ID: e31d52
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>>215452
Mmmn. We should be fine for that. Marcus said something about the floors being seperated by large doors that can be activated from either side... appaerently he'll know when the big guy arrives.
>>215452
Y-yes! R-right away!
"Good to see you are so energetic." Marcus says simply. "It turns out, the room we came into was really a hub of sorts. There wasn't anything useful there to begin with. But there is treasure in five other rooms, located nearby."

What sort of treasure?

>>216104
Treasure sounds good. Inquire about what sort of treasure it is and if you can get it. Some new magical armour would be pretty sweet to find.

>>216104
Your betrothed wishes to engage in treasure hunting? Well, I suppose there's no harm in it. Go ahead and indulge him.

How do I shot Trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/07(Sat)10:47 No. 216118 ID: e31d52
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>>216106
>>216107
"What kinda treasure?"

"Well, they actually were kind enough to sort the vaults." Marcus states. "There's a security system in place, similar to the one on the vault we fell in, though. There's a Book vault nearest to the door, the rest I'm uncertain about..." He adjusts his glasses and grins as he says the word 'book'.

>>216111
Why are you calling him that?

>>216118
Lets start with the book vault. Don't take anything until you have assessed what there is worth stealing in the place and if it triggers the destruction of everything in the other vaults as well.

>>216118

Because he's a creep. He has good ideas sometimes but he's still a creep. Ignore the creepy parts and pick out the good advice.

Anyway how are you guys on food and water? You gotta eat to live.

suggest that a magic weapon would be good as then you could fight the werk effectively.

oh, and the one keeps calling him "Your betrothed" because that voice thinks he is so dreamy.

it would be easy to have someone worse then him around, even with that weird book.

Let's go check out the library.

So, Samantha, what're your goals? Long term and short term. If we're going to help you, we need to know what it is you want for the future!

On another note, this guy seems weird. Maybe we can set him up with a boy with healing ability, and get you a boy-harem.

Oh, I should've mentioned this. If you don't give us a goal we default to romance and/or harems, which is why that one voice calls him your betrothed. SO GIVE US A GOAL! We'll likely still try to shoehorn those other things in though. Just be aware.

>>216118
He has not only seen your naked body, but been inside it. That's on top of him saving your life.
Honor dictates you marry.

How do I shot Trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/08(Sun)06:04 No. 216342 ID: e31d52
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>>216238
H-H-he hasn't been inside me!! What are you talking about!
And... no, look, that... that stuff it's... it's not important right now.
>>216205
I want to be a Paladin! A noble defender of righteosness and the weak. Just like the Gentleman!
But I'm not strong enough yet. Everyone keeps telling me I would make an excellent paladin, but I... I keep feeling like something is missing. I can't really... place it.
>Anyway how are you guys on food and water? You gotta eat to live.
I don't need to eat or drink. I'm special! Marcus might need to, though. He doesn't look hungry, yet.

Special? Special how?

Also, why do you want to be a paladin, exactly?

We can work with this though. Tell us something, are paladins religious here? We've been asleep a very long time.

>>216342
That's quite an odd way to be special. Are you sure you're still alive?

Anyway, lets get treasure raiding. Ask Marcus what's in the vaults and if looting one triggers all of them.

>>216342
Considering that your betrothed seems to be very familiar with this den of evil, he's probably a student here.
Obviously you must reform him.

can you tell the general area that the missing thing is? does it feel like it's in your heart or your mind?

Your goal is an admirable one, we will do our best to aid you.
Maybe your betrothed also have some kind of goal he is striving for, I suggest you ask him.
Perhaps it is something you can help him with to make up for the mess you caused by activating that trap.

How do I shot Trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/10(Tue)04:56 No. 216974 ID: e31d52
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>>216346
H-he's not my betrothed or anything! Besides, paladins don't... don't need to worry about that sort of honor thing... or such. And besides that, I'm sure he's from RaM. He's a guy. The only men in GaC is The Gentleman and the Teachers. But, uh, not everyone from RaM is evil. I think. I mean, Marcus hasn't tried to kill me yet, has he?

>>216345
Sure I'm sure! My teachers keep saying I'm a special gift.

>>216347
N-no... I feel like I'll know it when I see it or feel it, though.

>>216345
He looks at the book vault. "You see, these vaults are built in such a way that pulling the items from the vault triggers the hall and makes that room inaccessible. Of course..." his grin widens. "They forgot that the books don't need to be removed."

He laughs quietly. Okay, I'll admit he sometimes makes me nervous.

>>216974
He really likes books. Anyway, ask him if there's anything else but books in there.

So wait a little. You're the special gift? Not your power or something like that. That's a bit odd.

Guys, stop calling him "her betrothed", he's some scholar she just met. He's capable, sure, but he's as much as said that he's not into her. Or anyone, really. He's a Total Nerd; likely a good ally to get out of this mess, even taking his dumb book into account, but certainly not husband material.

>>216974

And that, right there, is why he isn't husband material. He is in love with learning, enamored with intellect. Good or bad, he'll not take a wife and he'll likely not miss having one. He's one of those men who will become confirmed bachelors and be happier for it

He may still do good things, for all that. He certainly seems driven to do something. He knew exactly what he was here for, and he knew what trap you tripped when you picked us up.

Well m'lady, as long as you're useful to him he'll probably won't betray you. Maybe you'll even get him to like you in a totally platonic way so he won't throw you to the wolves if it becomes convenient... Why're the two schools so close to each other anyway? That seems to be asking for trouble.

Anyway, let him read the books, and see if there's anything in there that interests you. If we make a good case for it, we might even convince him to forgo taking something if there's a cooler item we can use.

Just don't set off the trap this time.

ask that, since the books will be here later to read, maybe you should see what is in the other 3 vaults before he hunkers down to read.


also, what about your parents? if anyone they would know why you are special.

Ask Marcus to help you check the other 3 vaults for similar traps. He seems to be familiar with them. If he checks/clears the vaults then you can possibly sort the contents while he works on his books. This is more efficient then having you sit around waiting for him to finish with the book vault.

>>216974
Some people are evil in ways that serve themselves without harming very many other people. Hurting people unnecessarily is usually a bad idea when you're working on a long-term plan, anyway.

Perhaps we should find out what his goals are, though? Take the initiative and ask him about himself.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/11(Wed)14:56 No. 217417 ID: e31d52
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I'm not sure I like talking about what or who or how I'm special! It makes me nervous.

>>217015
I tap his shoulder and explain it might be a little more efficient the other way round.

"Very well. I'll explain this to you simply. From the two other vaults that still stand beside this one, you may remove one item. This will collapse the hall to that vault behind you. There's no way around it, I checked quite thouroughly."

"D-did you sleep?"

"Of course."

"Oh, good."

"Rather, I was bored waiting the several hours it took for you to rest. I occupied myself. I cannot identify the items in these vaults, but... You have that gift of yours. Most of it's junk anyway..."

He wanders away into his room. I enter the first room, one with many weapons. Three in particular stand out to me and are uncursed.

A long mace with swirling patterns engraved on the head, which is a large steel orb.

A longsword with a single ruby in the hilt, and a line of gold wrapped around the handle. Oddly, the gold is magically reinforced and thus is not malleable.

Lastly, a shortsword with a toothed edge.

Which should I remove?

Obviously the pretty longsword.

have only seen you use a sword before so it is the only thing we know you are good with. if you are just as well trained with maces then take that. if not then the longsword.
the brutal short sword is not for a paladin.

>>217417
The shiny gold sword seems like the obvious paladin choice, but I bet the mace would be better for smashing up constructs and undead. If design reflects intent the golden hilted sword should have power more in line with your talents.

The trap is triggered when you remove one from the vault, correct? So we can try to test them here first. Try holding each and swinging it around, maybe hit something with it.

...But test the golden hilted sword first, on the off chance the magic here doesn't appreciate messing around and you need to run.

>>217417
Take the mace for that extra smashy fun crushing fun. It will also work better against skeletons and constructs. And you need a mace anyway, a proper knight should never be surprised and find that they don't have a weapon to deal with the situation.

Testing the items is actually a very good idea. Swing them around a bit and strike the walls. See if you can figure out any magic effects. For all we know the longsword could be mostly decorative and the toothed short sword could be a magical chainsaw powerhouse.

yeah test them out in here.

How do I shot Trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/17(Tue)12:59 No. 219165 ID: e31d52
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>>217616
I pick up the mace first, and note that it's much lighter and more well-balanced than any normal mace. It's easier to manuever and defend with, yet when I hit some of the junk with it, I hear a roar and the dent or cracks made are much larger than a weapon of its weight and size would normally create.

The short sword has the weight and feel of a normal sword, but only a bare moment after touching it, it warms, and the teeth move, as if tasting the air. It is unsettling to hold.

As soon as I pick up the longsword, however... I swear I hear someone... or something yawn.

Wh-who disturbs the miiiighty and power-power...it yawns again, Autoch the Impervious?

ohoho, another talking item? can you hear us? if so then hello Autoch, it is a pleasure to meet another intelligent item. this is samantha, sam for short, our owner and your current wielder.

>>219165
What's your story, Autoch?

Oh no you are NOT bringing along some arrogant talking sword. Flatter this blade a bit and try to gain some information like who was its last owner, what does it know of these vaults, how do you get back to the surface etc.

Then leave it. Bring that mean shortsword instead. It's not cursed so you just need to get used to it.

>>219175
quiet you. just sounds like it has been asleep for a long time, and that is just it's name. and if anything was to be used instead it would be the mace.

Ok how about you grab Autoch the impotent in one hand and the toothy shortsword in your other hand then bash them together a few times! Winner gets to come on adventures!

>>219165
"Hey you lazy stick, I can only take one item and that mace smashes things pretty damn well. Convince me you're good for anything more than annoyance or I'll toss you in with the scrap."

"Hey sword, can you survive Ray of Rust and hurt a Werk immune to normal weapons?"

>>219165
Damn it, not another talking iteam. Talking swords is only a headache, always complaining that you got blood on them, that your grip is uncomfortable and giving you pointers you don't need in a fight. And there's also stupid one liners.

>>219193
You know what this isn't a bad idea. See which weapon surives. The one that is least damaged gets to come along. Just as long as it's not that damn talking sword.

>>219217
you are assuming the sword doesn't like blood. figure out what it does and what it likes before just throwing it away. for all we know it could cause the werk to explode with just a tap.

Woah woah woah, he might be a really cool guy! Talk to him. Ask him how he got his name, and such!

How do I shot Trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/18(Wed)14:35 No. 219500 ID: e31d52
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"I can hear you folks, you know." he says, without me talking. "I don't have a story. Not yet. I was made, then thrown away. The problem with that is... well... aside from being magical, I have no properties. Yet. Intelligent items grow, and learn, like people do. Depending on what you put me through, I could become greater than any weapon in this vault. Oh, I'm also ageless and unbreakable, but that's par for course for an Artifact. Personally, I'd love to leave this place, but hey, that's your call. imprison an intelligent being until the end of time, no burden on your shoulders."


I dunno, guys. I don't feel like leaving something that talks and thinks and stuff alone... forever.

>>219500
Hrm.

How long have you been here anyway?

Oh, and M'lady, I suppose it would only be right to rescue this being. Sure.

>>219500
Good point. Let's take him with us. Keep in mind that the mere fact that he's unbreakable is very useful. You can use him in many ways a sword normally wouldn't be able to; simply because a sword would break or bend or chip. The other items are... well, probably quite powerful, but let's not worry about that.

Picking Autoch is good in the long-term... and also the right thing to do.

So it is unbreakable after all? That will be useful against that Ray of Rust. You should take the sword and grow it into the most powerful evil smiting blade in the world!

ha, i like you. totes want you to come with. you know what would happen if we try to take more then one out of here? cause would want to take that mace too. if it ends in death then just you is fine.

>>219500
Figured you could hear us. Don't care about it.

This thing isn't very useful right now Sam. You need something that will give you some more immediate benefits. Toss it into a corner and then take one of the other weapons.

How do I shot Trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/18(Wed)20:18 No. 219630 ID: e31d52
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>>219501
>>219503
>>219504
>>219505
I walk towards the door.

"Most excellent! I hope I can serve well. Doesn't hurt that I have such a beautiful master!"

I exit the room and feel, and hear, the hall collapse behind me. Marcus leaves the room beside me, a smile on his face.

"Five new spells~!" he says happily. "Some of the second circle! Hahahah!" He approaches, holding out a hand. I hand him Autoch.

"This is your companion?" Autoch asks. "You're a lucky guy! She's nice!"

"What is this?" Marcus asks. "An intelligent weapon? ...How fitting. Well, the last room is armor." he says, handing it back.

If we end up with a talking chainmail bikini, I'll be pissed. Laughing, but still pissed.

hope it has something good.

I hope there's talking armor or a talking shield to keep the sword company. A talking scabbard would get real awkward real fast.

>>219630
Well then, lets go in and find something nice. Maybe an armor of mute. That should be useful.

One talking piece of equipment besides us should be enough. But I don't think we need to worry, I don't think I have ever heard of a talking piece of armour before.

How do I shot Trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/19(Thu)19:53 No. 219956 ID: e31d52
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>>219756
>>219672
I nod and make my way inside.

There's not much here that isn't either cursed or degraded to unwearability. Only three suits of magical armor remain.

The first is hardened leather. Patterns on the back appear to be in the shape of a stylized paw of some sort, I cannot determine exactly what.

The second is a chainmail tunic that extends down to the knees. It feels very light and slightly warm to the touch.

The last is a coat of plates that has a small gemstone in the center of the chest.

>>219956
I like the leather, but try them all on and punch yourself to see what they each can do.

maybe try poking them with us. learn something from them, maybe.

Try them all on!

I think the leather has some sort of animal shapeshifting ability, the chainmail is cold-resistant, and the plate... I don't know.

>>219956
Plate is traditional paladin wear, so that's probably your armor of choice. Leather and chain are nice, but they just can't compare in protective value, even with nifty enchantments.

hmm, I don't suppose the leather armor would get around your no-armor restrictions by virtue of being made from hardened flesh, would it?

Which can you get out of fastest?

I say the platemail, it is the armour she was trained with after all. But trying on all the armour before choosing might reveal interesting qualities we do not know about yet so let's do that first.

If you're going to try out clothing then you need Marcus for a second opinion obviously. I mean what if the platemail makes you look fat?!

Seriously though shout for Marcus. If he tries to hit you with a stick or something you might figure out the enchantments quickly enough. He might recognize the paw rune or the gem on the plate.

Which one of the three suits is the easiest to put on and take off? Since most of your Teacher's item forms (ooze, slime and skeleton) don't work with armor this is a very vital requirement.

You won't know without trying them on. Pick whichever one talks.

>>219956
Yeah you're going to need to try these all on. Remember your.. disrobing issues, hopefully one of these has some trait that works with or around that. I think you'll be less likely to keep the leather but try it first anyways to get it out of the way. Then the chain and the plate, so if you keep the plate you won't have to bother getting in and out of it again.

Hey Autoch, I don't suppose you've got any advice here? Too early to pull some sort of divination talent out of your metal butt?

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/22(Sun)16:06 No. 221133 ID: e31d52
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I try each one on seperately. The hardest to put on is the leather, but I can feel it and you... connecting? Somehow... I feel that this will allow me to change shape without losing the armor. I'll probably still look bare, though. Furthermore, I can't really wear things under it, it's too tight. It comes with trousers, too...

The chainmail feels warm and comfortable, and is easy to remove at a moment's notice. I feel like fire and cold are less dangerous, now. Instinctively, I can tell that it'll get hotter if I push the protection too far, to the point where it will burn my clothing and my skin.

The coat-of-plates is the second hardest to remove besides the leather, but feels familiar as my platemail. The jewel in the chest feels... empty. Missing something.

"If I may?""
"Yes?"
"Gemstones are commonly used in magical implements to store things. Energy, equipment, souls, that sorta thing, it depends on the enchantment."

The coat of plates, mundanely, would also be the most protective of the three. If I spent some time on it, I'm sure I could teach Marcus where the straps and such on my armor are to get it off a bit faster. Or he could learn an actual spell for that. I still feel a little... okay, a lot uncomfortable being undressed around him, or at all in the open.

So the leather is like a second skin, and will work best with your numerous styles and our powers. If we want to focus on technique, that's the choice to make.

The chainmail has elemental defenses that can protect not just from enemies, but can allow some evocations to occur around you without harming you. It's a bit specific though, and we would only get the most if our friend focuses on blasting fire and ice. Doesn't quite seem his style.

The fullplate seems very adaptable depending on it's enchantment. However.... Autoch, are these enchantments typically permanent or can they be swapped or modified? If it can be as adaptable as you are it might be worth it. If it can only be set once I'd rather go for the leather.

If Autoch isn't sure then get Marcus in here and see if he has a better idea about it. Ask the elemental too, it should have a clue or two how it works. Maybe we can just stick it in there. If it CAN only be enchanted once then let's try to transfer the leathers powers into the jewel. Those powers on plate would be awesome.

the chainmail is flat out no, if you run into anything that uses fire as it's primary attack it would be very very bad. the leather seems to have shapechange on it which is very nice. but i think the coat is spell absorption, it gets hit with a spell and it's power is pulled into the gem instead of affecting you.

The plate is what she was trained to use, besides, it seems it can be improved with an enchantment. Marcus seems to know some magic, maybe he can fix that?

>>221133
I say go with the leather.

>>221159
I think you're misunderstanding. If attacked with fire it'll absorb and lessen it, but too much will still be hot enough to burn. If attacked with cold it will create heat to fend it off, but again if it does this too much it will cause a burn. Either way you'd be better off with this than regular armor.

>>221192
huh? that is exactly what i said.

anyway. i was voting for plate.

Go with the leather. It seems to be incredibly compatible with the use of your powerful Forms. Some of your forms provide incredible defensive capabilities anyway that you just wouldn't be able to take advantage of with the plate mail.

Also since the leather bonds to your skin it means that Marcus's spell failures might NOT undress you any more, whereas this could happen in the middle of a fight when you wear the plate. It is also unaffected by Ray of Rust.

Marcus has proven that you can cheat in these vaults. Ask him if he has the magical skills needed to remove that gemstone from the plate armor and grafting it onto the leather armor. You can only remove one item from the vaults, but maybe you can change and alter the items inside the vault to trick it...

>>221193
>if you run into anything that uses fire as it's primary attack it would be very very bad.
I mean, that would be exactly when it is best. Anyways, it's chaff as far as I'm concerned, I'd more value its lightness than it's defense.

>>221133
Leather, then.

>>221198
...But do this if you can.

>>221198
>>221215
the armor IS enchanted, the gem stores stuff. therefor when a certain whatever hits the armor it will instead be stored in the gem. it is not a normal armor with a gem on it.

>>221199
i said fire primary, against anything with fire secondary it would work fine but a primary fire would overwhelm it and sam would be burned.

>>The chain is capable of outright absorbing the temperature-based energy types (fire and cold). This enery is converted, with a great deal of loss, into simple heat on the chains. Roughly, this translates into being able to absorb roughly... say, five or six DnD 3.5 fireballs, or the equivalent.

>As for the plate, no more can be explained.

>Leather has been explained as well.

ANYWAY, sam. you need to doa few trust exercises to get used to being nude, and to him being nude as well i suppose, so that next time something happens you don't freeze up or anything.

Go with chainmail, its easy to get on and off (for use of stances), offers both normal level and some magical level protection, and its what your most comfortable in, your being comfortable (including that the leather would make you feel awkward for the near nudity element) is important also.

>>221232

She did fine earlier, why does she need to be naked now?

>>221305
i didn't say now. later they can do trust exercises. the point is she needs to not hesitate for a moment.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/22(Sun)22:49 No. 221342 ID: e31d52
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I call out to Marcus, who enters. I explain the purposes of the items, and he wanders over to the coat of plates. "Right now, short term? The plate is best." he motions over the gem. "With a little work, I could tune this to carry some equipment for you, a sword, sheild, mace... that sort of stuff. possibly even provisions."

He moves onto the chain. "This is excellent defense against elemental attacks, honestly. It's a very powerful enchantment. However..."

He picks up the leather armor and throws it at me. "Speaking in the long-term, this would be best. None of the others have resistances to rays of rust, this one compliments your abilities." he says simply.

"And it looks positively fetching on you!"

>>221232
I...

"Marcus, about my feelings re-regarding my... my hesitance to..."

"Perfectly normal. I'm not about to suggest you start running around naked or simply expose yourself to me, Samantha. That would accomplish little to nothing."

"I dunno about that!"

I feel az blush creep up my cheeks as I hold the leather outfit in my arms.

>>221342
Think of the long term, lady. You must get over your embarrassment and grow stronger. What would happen if an enemy disrobed you during combat, and you froze up because of your unwillingness to show bare flesh?

Use the leather armor. Become a proud warrior. Proud of both body and skill.

not run around naked. just get used to it, so that you don't hesitate if it does happen. being comfortable with yourself and with him is key to being able to work together well.

>>221342
Ask Marcus if he can transfer the gem from the plate to the leather.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/22(Sun)23:07 No. 221349 ID: e31d52
File 128254364364.png - (124.01KB , 600x600 , 56.png )

>>221346
W-well how am I su-supposed to do that!?

>>221342
Leather it is!
I must admit, I did not expect your betrothed to analyze the situation so well. I approve.

>>221349
Wear the leather and use your forms more often. When using your forms you're pretty much naked right? So you can fight like that and get used to it.

well, for one. sleeping in the same room would help. just being closer together and knowing more about each other would raise trust. after a few days of that then sleep in the same bed. then finally sleep nude. JUST sleep, marcus will always be a gentleman, but this would let you know not just in your mind but in your heart. and knowing in your heart that no matter what happens he would never take advantage of your state of dress would put you at ease.

You guys are going to turn her into an exhibitionist if you keep encouraging her to get naked.

>>221349
Your powers mostly require nudity, and you'll just have to accept that modesty in appearance isn't really an option for you. Learn to be confident in yourself despite that, don't hesitate with action or think less of yourself for it. Remember that purity is a matter of heart and purpose and deed, what others see or think means nothing.

And you know, you may be able to avoid exposing yourself to Marcus sometimes, but there's still us and the Autoch looking. Not that we really matter, but we still appreciate what we see. Consider that practice of a sort.

How about a compromise to start? She doesn't need to run around completely naked, just with some extra skin showing. Like maybe without her top or something. I dunno.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/23(Mon)16:30 No. 221515 ID: e31d52
File 128260625649.png - (91.13KB , 500x500 , 57.png )

>>221355
>+3

Maybe. Maybe if we find a bed and things aren't dangerous and whatnot. Maybe. I don't really like the idea, but it seems necessary.

>>221361
>+10
Yes, that's right! It's all about attitude. It's not like I... enjoy it or anything!

>>221364
>-1
No! No, definitely not!

"Are you going to change?" Marcus asks. "We need to be careful about when we leave, or else it might ping a false positive. So we need to leave at the same time. Damn old facilities."

yeah yeah, the leather is best. you could have him help with it if you want him to. would be a good starting point. not gonna push you into it. still need to at least change in front of him though. but that isn't so bad. could ask him to turn around if you still aren't sure.

>>221515
Leather it is. Change quickly and go; you've got places to be.

>>221515
Yes, there's no sense in wasting time frittering about.
Put on the leather and go.

>>221515
Go ahead and change, do so calmly and efficiently. It won't be awkward if you don't feel that way.

You'd probably consider it awkward if he helped you change, but it can't be worse than sitting there and fumbling around with it for twice as long as you need to. Ask him to undo the bothersome plate straps along the back, and to secure whatever you find difficult to reach with the leather.

Yes, this is going to be routine. What if you someday are awoken to the sounds of a quickly approaching battle? Get used to it now.

>>221515
Think of this as practice. You can dump something on top of Autoch if you think he's being rude, so he doesn't get to see.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/23(Mon)20:11 No. 221573 ID: e31d52
File 128261949867.png - (69.09KB , 500x500 , 58.png )

>>221530
>>221518
>>221533
>+3

221539
>+10

A-alright. If you think this is best.
"M-marcus, please turn away. I need to undress completey for this."

"Alright." he says, turning his back.

There's a loud rumble almost the moment I finally finish undressing.

"They're here!" Marcus says, "Hurry!"


>>Milestone Influence reached!
>Explanation of Influence power unlocked.
>The Teacher's Brooch was made to teach students in proper form and behavior. Thus it is capable of changing the psyche of its owner over time.
>Doing so requires careful and subtle manipulation. Pushing too hard or too often will cause loss of influence. However, it should be noted that loss of influence only returns the owner to the last 'normal' state. Reaching 100 influence will change the owner to a new 'normal' state, with each milestone loosening the old state.
>You are currently at 25 influence, having reached a single milestone in (Social hangups around nudity).
>Multiple changes can be persued at the same time, but if one wants to choose an area to change, one must specify in spoilertags before the body of the post. Feel free to come up with areas as much as you like.
>Normal, undirected suggestions will no longer change the Influence.

Oh no, who could have ever seen this coming?

>>221573
No time for modesty now! Ask Marcus for help changing into the leather!
+Attraction towards Marcus

Unless you want to fight in the nude and change later.
-Social hangups around nudity

>>221573
Grab the leather and leave with Marcus! Grab us and your bracers and get ready to fight. If you have the time to change into your armor you'll know after appraising the situation oustide. And remember being... unarmored, means you can use any of your styles freely.

>>221578
I don't think we need that focus right now. Let's see how she acts before refocusing.

+Fearless/calm under pressureMove quickly, but only as fast as you can remain precise. Panicked hands will only slow you. Focus your mind on the task at hand, that being donning your armor, and complete it flawlessly before moving on to the next task, that being fighting or fleeing, as you choose.

As you act, ask Marcus what his preferred method of engagement is, or if he would rather run. Since you've got a new set of equipment and he has some new spells, presumably you would stand a better chance fighting than previously.

>>221578
((You know, I think our suggestions should really focus more on turning her into a badass and less on turning her into Marcus' toy/exhibitionist meat shield.))

Alright! look at you, overcoming fear, gaining a sentient weapon, and a new set of magical armor. This is the stuff of legends! and now that your no longer tired, off guard, and well equipped, its time to don your preferred armor and kick some ass!

+Overall Self Confidence

Just putting this out there, could we lure them into this room and then run out once they're inside, triggering the trap?

Social hangups around nudity
>>221573
You know, this is why you should have had Marcus assist you, you'd have been in the leather already if you had help!

You still need to follow up with convincing arguments! Also only ONE and BEFORE the post. Be concise now, people.

(guys you missed the note there that if we push too hard or too often we'll get backlash. This is TOO MUCH manipulation!)

The leather takes a long time to put on, right? I think you're not going to have enough time to change into the armor. Just wait until the enemies draw near, and assume obstinate ooze both for the form-obscuring nature of it and its combat effectiveness. Or maybe you could try out Slithering Slime to see how effective it is?

((deleted my old post and removed the influence part cause this is probably way too much volume of influencing. and too many different directions at one. let's focus on one thing to change at a time.))

right now is important enough that we can't worry about modesty. if marcus can help you get the thing on faster then let him help.

>>>Woah, woah! I know you guys just got a new toy, but slow down. Proper formatting is as follows:

>(mental area)
>Suggestion.

>>There's no need to indicate + or -, and too many of you are trying! Use the discussion thread, please! This next update will be a grace period, you won't get dinged for being like kids in a candy store, but get a hold of yerselves. :3c

>Oh, and Larro, who arts this, will be leaving for a while, so no updates for a few days. Sorry!

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/26(Thu)01:03 No. 222347 ID: e31d52
File 128280981691.png - (42.53KB , 500x500 , 59.png )

>The leather takes a long time to put on, right? I think you're not going to have enough time to change into the armor. Just wait until the enemies draw near, and assume obstinate ooze both for the form-obscuring nature of it and its combat effectiveness.

... I suppose I must.

"Hold these." I say, tossing the leather at Marcus. We leave the room together, and I take up the Obstinate Ooze form, feeling my body... change, warp. It's strange, but not painful.

... Odd. I only hear one set of footfalls... and it's very, very heavy.

And my eyes... feel so strange. Uncovered. Bare.

okay so it is ether just the werk or a minion of it. move closer and have marcus get a spell ready to fire, don't care what it is as long as he thinks it will work.

Maybe your eyes are your only real weak spot in this form?

You could just hide in a corner or lie next to the wall acting like a mindless creature. If this being turns out to be hostile towards Marcus then you can surprise grapple it from behind and melt it with your damage touch.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/26(Thu)21:27 No. 222548 ID: e31d52
File 128288325178.png - (62.04KB , 500x500 , 60.png )

It's the Golem! I don't know how, but...

Wait. The head, the shoulder... It's the Boss Werk? And the Golem?

"Where are you, boy!?" the... thing roars at the ceiling. "Come on out!" The emblem flutters from his shoulder as he he looks about, stomping forth heavily. "Return what you have stolen and your death shall be swift!"

okay. plan of action. have marcus start spamming spells at it from a distance so that it charges him, while you hide around the corner. when it passes you you flank it and engage in melee. Autoch should do plenty of damage due to his magical nature and your ooze form would prevent it from being able to get any real damaging blows against you. with marcus continuing to shoot at it.

or alternately, disengage and find a better location to fight. This thing is a combination of two serious threats. It doesn't know where you are yet, you have a chance to fight it on your terms.

(So I am not sure I understand. Does a room collapse as soon as any single item is removed? and as soon as any two items are picked up? Because using a room as a trap would be pretty sweet if there are any left.)

>>222557
(leaving with one makes it collapse, attempting to leave with two makes it collapse on top of you. and all vaults are collapsed, also not sure what other locations we have)

>>222557
>Removing an item from a room causes the hallway leading to it (seperate from the main hall) to collapse.

>>222548
Ask your sword if it has any thoughts on defeating the golem/werk.

Also, I'm thinking a defensive stance would be appropriate here. Admittedly, that doesn't leave you dealing much damage, but your opponent seems highly dangerous- can you risk not going full defense?

>>222560
>hallway leading to it

HMM! Use the trap against him! Lead him into the room then run out with the armor so he gets hit by the collapsing ceiling!

Oh it looks like o beat me to it >>222557 there :|

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/28(Sat)04:50 No. 222923 ID: e31d52
File 128299624780.png - (32.56KB , 400x400 , 61.png )

>>222569
>>222573
>>Use the hallway trap.

I look back at Marcus, who already has the book open.

"Get his attention, then come to me. Revert form before touching me, then grab my hand. Okay?"

He walks to the far wall and opens the book against it. I can feel the world around him shudder as something is torn from it.

I move out, waving my arms, and am greeted with a roar of rage. Running back to Marcus, I return to normal please don't look please don't look please please please! and take his hand. He watches the hallway, and then we both leap through...
(Cutscene)

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/28(Sat)04:50 No. 222924 ID: e31d52
File 128299625326.png - (59.51KB , 480x480 , 62.png )

...And emerge out in the hallway, to watch the way leading to the room collapse.
"We have to move!" Marcus barks, grasping my hand and pulling me along.
(Cutscene)

Aaaaagh, cut me a break! I can't even get dressed!

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/28(Sat)04:51 No. 222925 ID: e31d52
File 128299625950.png - (60.65KB , 480x480 , 63.png )

We finally stop running when we reach a truly huge room. several wires run along the floor, leading up to a large, grotesque figure.

"A Patchwerk." Marcus grumbles. I dress myself and draw Autoch. "It's not active just yet, but be careful..."

>>222925
May as well get the armor on now that you've got a minute.

This thing probably won't try to do anything for a while.

Once you're dressed I say we check out that door on the left.

Well being naked worked out pretty well. You got away quickly.

Those wires seem important. Is the werk unfinished? If so you should probably try to sabotage it. STay on guard while Marcus does his clever stuff. See what your sword has to say about this room.

>>222925
We've got a series of symbols over the doorways, let's take a moment before we enter to figure out what they mean and map it out.

the symbol on the left looks like an eye and on the right looks like some stairs. don't assume anything though.

ask marcus if all larger werks are automatically hostile. does gaining sentience make them mad at everything or something?

those lines do look important, cutting them will ether result in good or bad things.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/30(Mon)00:55 No. 223530 ID: e31d52
File 128315490878.png - (24.41KB , 500x500 , 64.png )

>>222927
I am dressed.

But the door on the left is promising.

I ask marcus about sabotage and he just shakes his head. "We'd best just... let it be." he says.

"What triggers it?" I ask.

"It's probably a defensive mechanism for the left door. Not a trap, a defence. And not to stop entry, either..." he frowns.

We move into the left room, cautiously.

>"... Greetings, strangers."

ummm, say hello back to him, introduce yourself, and ask what he is doing down here... that is a he right? rather obscured in the shadows.

>>223530
Ask him who he is, and what the heck he's doing here.

>>223530
Too open to be a physical threat, too obscured to be predictable, too happy to be trustworthy. Reminds me of the sort who'd talk you out of your money and house and your grandmothers jewelry.

Still, he hasn't tried to kill you yet which is better behavior then we've had lately. Ask him what he's doing down here.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/30(Mon)19:06 No. 223810 ID: e31d52
File 12832203888.png - (60.85KB , 500x500 , 65.png )

>>223535
>>223533
>>223532

"Uh..."

Marcus takes the initiative.

"Good day to you. My name is Marcus and this is my... bodyguard, Samantha."

Bodyguard?!

"Could you tell me what you're doing down here?"

>"Selling, stranger. I'm selling. If you have something incredible, I'm buying, too."

"You can't be serious. There's no one down here but Werks!"

>"There's you, stranger. What can I do for you today?"

>>>I Shop

>>The I Shop is a pandimensional seller and buyer of incredible things. He has a 25% chance of showing up on any given floor, usually near the exit.

give him a good conk on the head after you leave for that bodyguard comment. you are partners and if he wants to buy something with your money he better say he is sorry.

anyway. ask him what he has for however much money you got.

>>223810
>Bodyguard?!

That's more accurate than "betrothed," and against an unknown entity is more likely remind them that you're not an easy target. It's practical. If you want him to introduce you in another fashion, bring it up with him later.

For now, want to sell or buy anything!?

>>223818
A helpful wierdo then, fine whatever. Ask him for healing things, spells for the mage and... wait, do you even have any money? Maybe we can pawn off those bracers, they are of limited actual use anyways.

You know what, I think we finally found a use for our little elemental friend too! And it isn't going to be happy about that at all.

Ask what he's got.

>>223824
The bracers aren't useless.
I've gotta agree with selling the elemental, though. Trading a glorified glowstick for healing magic is a win in my book.

Watchya got, no face?

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/30(Mon)20:00 No. 223858 ID: e31d52
File 128322361957.png - (36.28KB , 500x500 , 66.png )

I have roughly )*( 500, though I can't be sure about that.
"Marcus, what about the elemental?"
Marcus thinks for a moment.
"What would you offer for that?"

>"...)*(1000." he replies, the smile vanishing for a moment as he thinks.

"Very well." Marcus places the elemental before the man... thing... person... shopkeeper, who picks it up, turning it over in his hands.

>"This is a fine specimen. Here."

He places a bag of coin on the table, and I place mine beside it.

Marcus rifles through both bags, then adds mine to the larger one and hands it back.

"What do you have for sale in the area of magical healing or abjuration equipment?"

The man thinks.

>"Standard going rate for small Potions of Healing is )*(150. Those knit flesh and repair some bones, but for any damage beyond that, you'll need something like a Ring of Regeneration, which costs )*(2000... but since it's your first time here, I'll cut the price down to, oh, )*(1500 for one of those."

>"In terms of... protective magics, I can offer a Ring of Energy Warding for... )*(1250. This will protect you from fire, electricity, sonic, ice, and acid, but in a very... limited fashion. Let's say it will halve, at best, the damage one would take from the simplest of spells. I also, for the same price, have single rings of specific warding, which protect against a single element, but five times as well."

>>223858
Considering we have no healing magic, the Ring of Regeneration sounds good. But... it would only be truly useful if it never runs out.

>>223858
Have Markus ask if he sells what is needed to add a healing spell to that magic book.
Heck, have him ask if he has some way of making it so Marcus doesn't need the book to cast magic.

If not, then take the ring. Regenerating damage over time is wondrously useful.

get the regen ring. you only have enough to get one of the resistance rings and that leaves whoever isn't wearing it wide open. while if one of you get's hurt they can just pop on the ring and be back in shape in no time.

The regen ring sounds like a good item.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/30(Mon)23:45 No. 223957 ID: e31d52
File 128323714428.png - (30.27KB , 360x209 , 67.png )

>>223877
>>223868
>>223867
>>223866
I look to Marcus.

"The regeneration ring."

He thinks for a moment. "You're right. It's our best option right now." he places the bag on the shelf.
"We'll take the regeneration ring, please."

>"A most excellent choice, stranger. It begins working when you equip it. Have a nice day, stranger."

And just like that, we are shunted out of the room as it ceases to exist.

The ring is rather pretty, though.

>>223957
Try wearing it then shifting into Striking Skeleton form to see if it stays on.

yes, you put it on and stay out in front, if anyone tries to sneak attack you then you can just take the hit and get back up shortly as the ring works it's magic. let's try the stairs now.

>>223957
Marcus did have a knife slice its way through him so it's probably best if he starts wearing it to heal that damage.

Anyway, lets move on then. We have a dungeon to flee and a pervy sword to exchange for something better. Hell if you want to exchange us as well for something else I wouldn't blame you.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/31(Tue)20:18 No. 224297 ID: e31d52
File 128331108289.png - (44.67KB , 500x383 , 68.png )

I look up and see the Boss Werk smiling in the hallway. I put on the ring, feeling strange, and draw the sword again. He murmurs something, but I don't quite hear it.

((Cutscene))

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/31(Tue)20:18 No. 224298 ID: e31d52
File 128331108752.png - (44.03KB , 500x383 , 69.png )

The Boss Werk smiles and presses a button neither of us saw before. The exits to the room are sealed with two portcullises! The lines leading to the large creature light up.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/08/31(Tue)20:18 No. 224299 ID: e31d52
File 128331109153.png - (79.66KB , 500x500 , 70.png )

The Patchwerk awakens with a roar.

BOSS BATTLE

>>224299
Cut the cables, hope for the best.

If that doesn't take it down, then get on its back and cut your way inside it.

>>224299
Oh what the christ. Take evasive action while we get some info on it.

>scan enemy for knowledge and vulnerabilities

yeah, cut the cables and then switch toi slime or ooze, whichever give you acid, and wrap around a leg. melting a leg off would really hurt it and make it harder for it to attack.. and since it is cloth it should be weak to fire so have marcus shoot fireballs or something.

Autoch! I don't know by what mechanism you learn powers, but golem slaying or just being better at cutting through inorganic matter are excellent ways to go. NOW, if at all possible.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/09/10(Fri)00:21 No. 228991 ID: e31d52
File 128410327913.png - (118.60KB , 500x500 , 71.png )

>>224323
Don't you worry! If she survives this... Hell, if she wins it, we're golden!

>>224313
>>224309
I run around it, dodging its attacks with more ease than I expected. The cables don't seem to be powering it anymore, it just needed that one spark, I suppose.I feel the world shifting and tearing oddly as Marcus throws multiple missles at it.

I can't transform! I'd need to stand still!

"____________!" the creature roars, and tries to strike again as I flip back over the strike. I feel oddly buoyant, briefly, but only for the barest of moments.

okay then, try to get onto it's foot. and then dodge if it strikes at you, make it punch itself. then try to transform. ooze would be good, then let it hit you and wrap around it's hand, melting it off.

I get the feeling none of the forms will serve you very well right now. The ooze could be of some use, but I can only imagine you getting splattered and causing minor burns in return.

No, you need to avoid getting hit at all, and deal telling blows. Now is the time for Sylvan Strike Formula. Remember even the nonliving have weak points, attack the golems stitches at every opportunity! The best opportunity should be when it swings at you, take out the arms stitches and hopefully that will lessen it's offense, or even remove it.

>>228991
Ok, this thing probably don't have any handy tendons you can cut off to make it fall. But cutting through a leg should still be good enough. So start working your way through one of those legs. Once it topples cut the head into tiny pieces until it tops moving. If it's still moving after you cut apart the head then cut your way deeper into the body until you find something vital.

>>229013
Oh yes, good idea. Sylvan Strike Formula seems like the best choice at the moment. Aiming for the stitches is a good idea too.

>>228991
Buoyant eh? I wonder if you have some sort of latent magical ability... You might even be able to fly. Try it. Think 'upwards', or try to imagine the feeling of that acceleration you get when jumping and extend that.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/09/13(Mon)05:17 No. 230271 ID: e31d52
File 128438023650.png - (107.77KB , 500x500 , 72.png )

>>229121
>Sylvan Strike Formula!

Well, it's not as good with a wide sword like this, but I'll take what I can get. Moving through the his strikes with ease, letting my body and instincts guide me, I slip under his his range of attack and slice open the stitching at his leg...

Only to find nothing but bright red, pulsing muscle beneath, and as soon as my sword passes into it, it tightens, grabbing hold!

I can feel the world rippling as Marcus draws more and more from that book, and a feeling of dread creeps up on me.

... Let go, damn you!

no wait! this is perfect. tell marcus to chill with the book you got this while you turn into ooze form and slide into the gap and just start melting it's insides.

>>230272
Yes, this should be the perfect method to defeat this thing. Although not strictly necessary for a golem it looks like it's designed to need its head. Keep well enough under the surface so it can't easily respond to you by hitting the area, then make your way up to the head to hopefully disable it quickly.

>>230271
That is actually quite an ingenious defense against melee for a thing like this. Try twisting the blade and see if you can't cut up the muscles a bit so you can wrench the blade free.

Hmm, you're probably going to have to use heavy shallow cuts to make sure your blade stays free while still causing damage here. Can't let the sword get stuck. And keep attacking it. If Marcus is preparing for something big then it's probably going to be somewhat useful, although there is a chance that a wardrobe malfunction will be a slight side effect. So, keep cutting until it's dead and then get out of here before the boss werk gets here.

Wow you look positively badass in your leather armor!

If the werk seems to be paying attention to you then use your Ooze form for the defensive bonus and possiblity of slipping inside its cloth cover and damaging its muscles.

If it isn't focusing on you then use the power of the Striking Skeleton form to wrench your sword loose and deliver some devastating all-out attacks!

Self Confidence

This is no time to get worried or have a feeling of dread. this is a time to fight! You have a magic sword, magic armor, and are facing little more than an overgrown and over magiced ragdoll. You. Can. Do. This! Pull that sword out, and give it a slash it'll have to notice.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/09/14(Tue)15:40 No. 230833 ID: e31d52
File 128450404376.png - (50.10KB , 500x500 , 73.png )

>>230299
>>230272
I call to marcus to cease spellcasting, but the din of the creature's roaring drowns me out. My efforts to pull out the sword have gotten me noticed, and the creature raises and arm to swat at me.

I quickly take the form of ooze, and while not as easily as my slime form, slide into it's body.

This is easily the strangest thing I've ever done.

It's very dark. the muscle slowly erodes away from me. I have only a limited amount of time before I revert, and I don't want to have that happen while I'm in here... Where should I go?

((5))

>>230833
Go through it. It's possible that you won't get through the bone so just go past that and then out the other side. Which should make it easier to cut through the rest of the muscles and then topple this thing. In which case you should start looking for an exit before the Werk gets in here.

And don't think of it as running away. Rather it's a tactical relocation to another time and place where you will be better suited to face your foes.

>>230833
Well, it's got eyes, so those probably serve some sort of functional purpose. If you can manage to dissolve/slide your way up there, they would provide an ideal point from which to destructively burst free. Also it would be awesome.

If it's not feasible to move around that much, I defer to others' suggestions.

>>230833
Up!

get up to the knee and sever the muscles there. would be where they are thinnest.

The first plan here should be to head straight up, towards the knee or upper thigh area and erode its leg support until it topples. Then we're going to work through the torso so it can't counter us, to the head and take that out before you revert.

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/09/28(Tue)20:49 No. 235506 ID: e31d52
File 128573217883.png - (53.23KB , 500x500 , 74.png )

>>230864
>>230847
>>230840
I quickly move to the knee and begin eroding the muscles there. Marcus could barely escape its reach, almost getting swatted multiple times. He's stopped casting, but it feels like something big is waiting for me when I come out.

((4))

okay, it's at least partially immobilized. keep going up it and see if it has any organs to wreak, if so then wreak them, if not then keep going up to the head.

That's enough damage here to make a difference. Make your way to the head as quickly as possible so you can take it out for good. But head through the middle, besides protecting you from attempts to hit you through itself there might be something like a heart there. If there is that'll be what you take out, else go for the head.

>>235506
After doing a bit of damage to the knee, move up the body. Go for the head, but if you can't make it that far at least you'll be able to come out the back where it won't immediately get a free shot at you as soon as you pop out.

Keep crippling it. Either go for the head and eyes or try to damage a shoulder/arm. With one leg and one arm this werk won't be able to move and attack at the same time.

Only problem with moving further up is that you'll have to get down too. Are any of your forms good for surviving falls?

Keep crippling it. Either go for the head and eyes or try to damage a shoulder/arm. With one leg and one arm this werk won't be able to move and attack at the same time.

Only problem with moving further up is that you'll have to get down too. Are any of your forms good for surviving falls?

How do I shot Trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/09/29(Wed)13:24 No. 235922 ID: e31d52
File 128579187513.png - (90.70KB , 600x600 , 75.png )

>>235850
>>235849
>>235579
>>235522
>>235507

I quickly move upwards, the contents of the body (which are mostly muscle, actually) hissing and dissolving around me as the creature slowly stands up. I can feel it- Huh?

I remember seeing Marcus holding something like this! And talking to it! It must be important...

((3))

wrap around it and pull it out of it's socket. if it is important to the thing then not having it would result in bad for it.

>>235922
Disconnect it from the surrounding tissue, and toss it outside the body before you exit.

>>235922
Fuck it up and then get out. Don't want to get stuck inside of the golem, cutting your way out is such a messy thing to do.

>>235922
Take this shiny and make it yours.

How do I shot trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/09/29(Wed)20:25 No. 236163 ID: e31d52
File 128581712514.png - (116.01KB , 600x600 , 76.png )

>>235926
>>235962
>>235923

I wrap around it, disconnecting it from the creature with ease...

And the moment I do so, it stops moving, Wait, what is that weird shaking feeling?

Suddenly, I'm forcibly ejected from the creature, landing in front of Marcus while I reform into normal, my armor still on. The creature falls behind me.

"Great job, Sam." Marcus says, looking on in shock.

yeah, something big was waiting for you though. willing to bet the moment you finish reforming your clothes are going to fall off again, because marcus was slinging around a lot of spells. but since it's just him it's not that big a deal, just sigh and wait for the magic to finish and put it back on.

>>236163
Confidence

Smile proudly at your victory, and thank Marcus for his compliment. You might also wish to display your shiny spoils, so that he may admire it appropriately.

>>236163
Not over yet, there still the matter of the boss werk. So grab Marcus and get a motherfucking move on.

Just have to find a way to get through the portcullises sealing the exits.

Suggestion 2010/09/30(Thu)15:43 No. 236456 ID: e31d52
File 128588660318.png - (86.61KB , 418x556 , 77.png )

>>236201
He's nowhere to be seen. I hand the core to Marcus, who delights over it.
"It's tired, but he will recover very soon! This is excellent! Definitely worth the effort!"

The door to the next floor opens.

>>236456
Well, make sure you've got your sword. Not sure if it turned into slime along with you, or what.

yeah, Autoch said something about getting better if we win.

>>236456
Only one door opened? Does the stairs lead up or down?

If it's down then get the other door open as well.

Suggestion 2010/10/01(Fri)10:19 No. 236889 ID: e31d52
File 128595357499.png - (86.72KB , 600x600 , 78.png )

>>236762
The stairs lead down. The only other door is barred, and it's the way back. The shop's door has simply and utterly vanished, as if it was never there.

I pick up Autoch, and he humms, like a cat purring.
"Very well done! Now that I've done something of note, I know I'm much more effective against animated objects, like golems or Werks. I'm also much better at breaking inanimate objects, too!" he says as I sheathe him on my hip sheath.

Marcus hums to himself as he leafs through his spellbook, happy as I've ever seen him.

>>236889
"You said you're indestructible, right?"
Cut the bars so you can thrash that werk, then go loot the area he was in.

that is surprisingly clever. if he is still there then he would not be expecting it.

ahha, i knew something was going on. you have a popped seam and it seems to be getting bigger. was trying a stealth route this time, get everything almost off and then it just falls apart. i'm not sure what to do about it though, maybe noticing it is happening is enough.

>>236889
Perfect! Oh and we can call this the Breaker property, because why not? I'm sure you'll have sizable list of features sooner or later. And I'm not sure how much control we might have over your future powers, but note that when using sylvan striker you were not the ideal sort of blade, and in slime form you weren't there at all. Suppose your shape could adapt to her styles and forms? Even if it were a piecemeal adaption to one use at a time it might be a worthwhile path.

How do I shot trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/10/05(Tue)06:10 No. 238743 ID: e31d52
File 128628420361.png - (77.96KB , 700x700 , 79.png )

>>236941
Most of my Forms cannot use weaponry, so... that's kinda a moot point.

>>236906
I what! My pants! I liked these...

>>236892
I walk up to the bars, and with a few cuts, they fall to the floor.

And then they slide down, as if there was more portcullis hidden in the wall. I do it again.

And again.

...

>>238743
>Most of my Forms cannot use weaponry, so... that's kinda a moot point.
I was thinking it could get around that... oh well. Slime form with a sharp and fluid acidic sword seemed neat.

Leave the bars alone, clearly this place is ridiculously overdesigned. Can't even break properly. Check out the next new passage.

>>238743
Don't fight the werk right now. Try cutting your way through the gate that leads up instead. It will probably also have the endless portcullis thing going on. But you should atleast try it.

Oh, and cut off some slices from the fleshy golem. It might be edible and you don't know when you're going to get out of find something that you can eat again. You should get some skin to make into a waterskin as well, if you find a source of water you should be able to carry some with you so you can last a bit longer if getting out drags on for several days.

well, since the only thing that broke is the seam that one spell Marcus has, that fixing one, it should work fine at fixing them. tomorrow though. so he doesn't blow them all the way off trying to fix them.

>>238750
there are no stairs that lead up. two passages, down and back. the back passage is the one she just tried to cut through. so the only passage left is down. i don't know WHERE you got that an up passage is somewhere.

>>238764
My bad then. Down it is. Although I could have sworn that there was another passage. Hmm, must have been the shop that looked like another exit then.

also it's a bit sad we didn't need the ring but it's like an umbrella, rather have it an not need it, then need it and not have it.

>>238743
Doesn't Marcus have a spell to fix things? He ought to have a spell to fix things. Make him fix your pants.

Clearly, we must quest on to find magic pants

>>238790
those ARE magic pans, it's just that the book is an artifact so it can bypass lesser magic.

How do I shot trip?!H508X.HbJ6 2010/10/05(Tue)23:47 No. 239319 ID: e31d52
File 128634765223.png - (51.06KB , 500x500 , 80.png )

I mention the issue of my pants to Marcus and he nods.

"Not now, though. I'd rather wait until I'm not liable to have your clothing... or mine... explode off my body. You'll have to endure for now."

"But-"

"But nothing, Samantha. It doesn't hinder you as far as I can tell, it's not a problem."

"But it is!"

"Would you like me to undress as well, or shall we move on?" he asks, pulling out the knife. "I shall now prepare this meat for making jerky. Do you have any more issues to address?" he asks.

He pauses. "I apologize. My concern for you was overbearing and I feel I may have lashed out. This is rather uncommon for me. Excuse me."

He walks over to the golem and begins to carve off the membrane, inspecting the muscle tissue and mumbling quietly to himself as he usually does.

I wonder what that book would do, if no one was wearing clothes. Probably something even more perverse. Well I guess that's not worth worrying about... how flesh golem jerky tastes, would be a more immediate concern. Assist him with that if you are able, preparing a good amount quickly is important if you can't find any other sort of food down here.

>>238815
...We must quest for artifact pants.

Social hangups around nudity
jeez, apologize back, it's just leggings. and it's not like he hasn't been perfect gentleman this whole time. i'm sure he would be more then willing to fix them later. also, are you sure you wouldn't be okay with him stripping too? it may be jumping a few steps but being comfortable around each other is a key part in making sure you no longer feel weird about it. it's fine if you say no at the moment, it IS skipping some steps.

>>239319
Affection towards Marcus
He's right, and he's obviously thinking about your feelings if he's apologizing for his comment without having been called out for it. I think he cares more than he lets on.

>>239319
Well then, nothing for it except to take matters in your own hands. Get a sliver of bone you can use as a needle and get fish out some tendons. Let them dry and then you can sew your pants back together yourself. The tricky parts are going to be the needle and the tendons, sewing isn't that hard, unless you're trying to make it look good.

Suggestion 2010/10/06(Wed)17:23 No. 239576 ID: e31d52
File 128641100629.png - (75.18KB , 500x500 , 81.png )

>>239330
>+5
>30
I but what!? That would be totally inappropriate! I can't ask him to do that! Seriously!

>>239346
>+5 ((New category!))
>6

Maybe that... maybe that's the case but now is not the time! We have places to go. Bodies to dry out and eat.

>>239361
The creature has no bones, and is almost entirely muscle mass.
"How did this even work?" I ask, looking over the opened creature.

"Magically animated." he replies. "As per the spell. I believe that high-ranking Werks can cast something like it when they become strong enough."
"Ah. Do you think it'll taste any good?"
"Meh. Artificially made muscle isn't really all that good for taste, but it is incredibly nutritious. If I dry all this we could live down here for months, if we can find some source of citrus and water."

"Ah... Were you serious, before?"

"Hm? I'm always serious, Samantha." he pulls out a large hunk of meat.

O-oh.

Social hangups around nudity
i did say it was skipping a bunch of steps. step one is just sleep in the same bed clothes on with a blanket between you. which isn't so bad. the next step starts when you are totally comfortable with the current step, at which point the next step will be considered not so bad. it is a slow but good way of getting over fears.

>>239576
What are you waiting for? Thank him for being concerned for you. Plus, help him cut some flesh off.

>>239576
Affection towards Marcus
On the contrary, this is the perfect time for this.
You're trapped in a dungeon, and the only direction you can move in is away from the surface. You're going to be putting much more than your life in his hands, and he will be doing the same for you. Beyond the simple need to establish a rapport and develop your teamwork, you also need to build emotional bonds. The closer you two are the more protective and decisive you will be about each other, and hesitation kills.
I am rather disappointed that they didn't cover survival psychology as part of your training. At the very least as far as explaining how the brain handles this in an instinctual process.

Well, what's done is done. What's important to understand now is that you're going to become emotionally attached towards Marcus. This is completely normal, and something you should encourage instead of fight.

>>239576
There should still be some tendons in there somewhere. Help with the cutting and look for some. You don't actually need a needle if you can just dry out the tendons, then you can usually make one end hard enough that all you need are some holes in the cloth you're trying to sew. And with a knife and premade holes that's not very hard to fix. So look for those tendons while helping him work.

Honestly there is a multitude of uses for tendons, so it would be really good if you could find some.

How do I shot trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/10/09(Sat)05:46 No. 240634 ID: e31d52
File 128662840911.png - (109.25KB , 500x500 , 82.png )

>>239625
"Th-thank you for the concern."

"You place yourself in unreasonable danger. You deal with embarrassment on a regular basis. And yet you put up with me." he cuts out a rather large piece, placing it by his side while I look for tendons.

>>239835

He watches me for a moment. "They don't teach you much beyond Martial Arts there, do they?"

"N-no, why?"

"A minion must know how to do many things. repair cheif among them. Butchering, cooking, and other similar arts as well." he goes on, pulling out a long, thin muscle. "I was hoping to wait for the next day, but this will give me something to do." he says, placing it carefully atop the skins. "It'll need some time to dry." he says, then gets back to work with me, explaining how and where to cut. He takes a break and hands me his knife, watching me and instructing.

>>239709
>+7
>11
Like Marcus said, the most advanced training is martial arts. Very few courses fall outside that, and if they do, they go into general prep (maintaining heavy armor and weapons, things like that) or combat magic. I'm not very good at either. B-but you're probably right. I'm not sure, though. It's only been two days!

sounds like you were expected to be on the front line, and anywhere else is sub par for your training. Marcus was given a behind the scenes education.
i am rather curious about what this meat tastes like, hopefully not BAD, and at worst just unpleasant.

>>240634
Affection towards Marcus
Ugh, I don't know if it's incompetence or malice but your school is in dire need of a good throttling.
You're more capable of coming out on top in a fight, but Marcus is more capable of surviving on his own.
Watch him. Learn from him. He will keep you alive while he teaches you how to survive without the sort of support your previous teachers assumed you would always have.

Well you two make an excellent team. Maybe you can stay together for more ventures once you escape this hellhole?

What spells and stuff did Marcus get from the magic library?

How do I shot trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/10/12(Tue)00:39 No. 242457 ID: e31d52
File 128686915315.png - (76.61KB , 500x500 , 83.png )

>>241370
"Oh, what spells did I find? I managed to recover Limited Teleport, Space-to-Hand, and another spell that I'm not certain about called... Amaega. The first lets me teleport myself and gear about 40 feet, without error, the second lets me teletor hand-held objects into my hand so long as they aren't attended or out of sight, but I have no idea what the last one does at all... It was the only spell in the book, and the description was heavily damaged. It's also a fifth-circle spell, so it's very powerful!"

There isn't much of anything in the area to burn for fuel, but Marcus is able to find a way to cook some anyway anyway. It's not much.

Bleh, terrible!

"Much better as a jerky." he says with a chuckle.

... Did he just laugh?!

hahaha, if he did then that means he is also loosening up to you. getting less business and more friendly.

>>242457
Seems that way doesn't it. Anyway, those spells seem rather nice and possibly useful. Compliment him on gaining them.

But you know you should probably start moving again pretty soon. The bosswerk thing might be back with more nasty stuff to use against you.

>>242457
So he can teleport up to 40', while you can turn into a slime?

Turn into a slime and go through the bars.
Marcus teleports after you.
You then proceed to kick the crap out of the now-overpowered Boss Werk and loot his things.
Following that, Marcus teleports out of the pit you fell down and retrieves a rope with which he can extract you.

>>242504
the pit is deeper then 40 feet.

You'll have to try out the Amaega spell then next time you stop to rest or have a chance to restore Marcus' magic.

Once the jerky is done you should probably take point making use of your Slithering Slime form to scout ahead stealthily.

Limited Teleport won't let Marcus teleport together with you will it? Even if he holds you in his arms?

How do I shot trip!H508X.HbJ6 2010/10/16(Sat)21:07 No. 244523 ID: e31d52
File 128728843925.png - (100.91KB , 486x448 , 84.png )

>Limited Teleport won't let Marcus teleport together with you will it? Even if he holds you in his arms?

"Nope." he replies. "Limited only teleports myself and gear. And unless you could, like, turn into a suit of armor..."

"Yeah, I suppose you're right."

"Amaega seems to be in the Arcana school, by the way. No penalties, which is nice."

Silence.

"So, uhm." I manage quietly. "Why were you there?"

"Hm?"

"The book. Why did you want it?"

He goes into thought.
"I was born without the ability to channel magic." he admits quietly. "I don't want to grow up to be some sweat-backed hauler for some random incompetent. I'm tired of seeing the school in disrepair. And the growth, it's just... frivolous. I've heard that it's started to even tunnel down! Sooner or later, there won't be any down to tunnel through. And when that happens..."

A grim image of the schools colapsing fills my mind. "It won't be pleasant." he finishes darkly. "I want to be stronger. I want to rule this place, and see it done right."

I-I.... I've never seen anyone so... passionate. Even the paladins never get this... this w-wild look in their eyes.

that is because most paladins simply do what their god tells them, they say go slay evil and they slay evil. but Marcus here, he is trying to do something that is both extremely selfish and selfless at the same time, he wants enough power to save everything. you should be his moral compass, power is an extremely corrupting force and he could break under the pressure alone.

>>244523
Confidence
Tell him that you'll help him, if he'll have you. He can't handle everything on his own, and someone's going to look after him... and you care about the schools too, right? You're capable, fairly smart, and if you set your mind to it, you can accomplish this goal. Rule the schools. Let nothing stand in your way.

>>244523
Insight
Equal parts passion and obsession, it seems. He seems to have good control and ability to reason, but I wonder if he is tempered by anything else? Not exactly a people person, if you get my drift. Even if well intentioned and capable of transforming the school, he may become a tyrant for his vision. Can't be sure of that with what we know now... try asking him about how well he thinks he can deal with people, with leadership and power over others.

>>244523
Well that's because this is something he himself truly wants, and something that he's willing to do almost anything to get. If eternal damnation was the price for it then he would accept it.

Anyway, what he said about leadership was just how he would want the school to expand, not what he would want the students to focus on and stuff. Ask about that as well.

Well tell him this, " Listen I want to help you rule this school if you would want me. ( Hug him, show him your intentions) I want you to know that I will help you in any way I can but there is a piece of advice I should give you. Rememeber to use your passion to drive yourself foward but always be aware of what you are doing and what effect is will have. That is the true way to power."

Then stick your tounge out at him to show a bit of humour.

Trine!H508X.HbJ6 2010/10/19(Tue)00:41 No. 245901 ID: e31d52
File 128747410073.png - (98.23KB , 500x500 , 85.png )

A personal drive, rather than a divine one? I... suppose that makes sense. But my teachers always told me that it is the ambition in our hearts that turns us to darkness.

That we should only strive for greater power because it would let us protect people more effectively. Doing it for yourself is Wrong and Evil and Selfish and things...

>>244554

"But what about people? Surely such an upset will-"

"They will recognise my vision or die so that I can make it real without being impeded."

... He... He is definitely... Well, he is defenitely not Good. I mean... throwing away life like that?

>>244809

"And the students?"

"I'd direct them to learn as they please. A good third of R.A.M. is library. I will appoint advisors of subjects that can direct proper study, and enforce rules. Knowledge should be sought after by those who desire it. Those who do not want it will merely let it rot within their skulls."

There's a pause.

"What about you, Samantha? Why did you come down here?"

Oh god if I tell him I'm a paladin in training he might not trust me or he will like me less but I can't lie because that would be Wrong but I don't want him to think I'll kill him for what he just said what do I dooooo

>>245901
It's isn't like he's aligned with dark forces here, he's just ambitious. It isn't that alone that leads to darkness, it's neglecting everything else in blind desire. Doing the "right" thing with a big dose of "the ends justifying the means". He doesn't speak of cold murder but defeating those who fight back. If those who stood in his way were instead peacefully removed, made to not mind or converted over to his side he certainly wouldn't mind. Just be honest about what you want to be, and that you would like to guide his course of action to not lead to such bloodshed.

Try to be calm and ask him that you want to try and help him to acheive his objectives but try to guide him to achieve his goals through non-violence. Be honest with yourself but try and develop and a romance with him. Build it up gradually at your own pace.

There is a question that I want to know, what would you do if you were incharge of the school and how would you deal with poential threats.

>>245906
you mean friendship.

Calm down, you already told him you were a paladin back when you two met, if that would effect his trust and/or liking of you then it would have already.

>>245901

Insight

You're a Paladin-to-be, so you don't know this yet. I could be mistaken, but I believe Marcus has never actually lead in a complex political situation, and so he probably doesn't know it either yet.

There's a secret to all forms of leadership. The secret is this: running an organization is a sort of constant war. Instead of the lives of soldiers, the normal currency spent to gain territory (willing followers) is social influence. Lives are only lost when opposing sides see absolutely no way to reconcile. This is because each time a leader loses a member of his organization, or overtly attacks his opponents, he destroys territory.

Killing people in a political situation is, at best, a scorched earth policy that results in living members leaving the longer it goes on. It's non-sustainable. Marcus, even with the full power of the book at his disposal, won't be able to afford to kill many people at all.

He's rational though, and he's ruthless (a great quality in a leader), and logical. As soon as he understands that killing his political opponents is not the optimal path to consolidating power, he'll change his plans. As it is, he's young and while well trained is still inexperienced in the practicum of political maneuvering. Killing is so quick and so final that's it's quite easy to make the mistake of viewing it as the optimum solution.

Basically, it is not a matter of being evil so much as a matter of being efficient. Talk him into thinking that killing isn't efficient, and he won't.

>>245901
Why, you lie of course. But a lie with a hidden truth in it. You tell him that you wanted the medallion so you could become a stronger warrior. It's the truth after all isn't it? You just leave out those other problematical parts.

And your teachers told you that stuff because that is what they believe or have been told to teach you. That doesn't necessarily make it the truth. Which leads up to an interesting questions. Do you want to protect people because that is what you yourself truly want or is it because your teachers have told you to do so?

>>245901
>>245974

A question for you both. Are your memories faulty?

Sam, you already told Marcus you were a Paladin-in-training, back when you first met him. He is not the sort of man to forget something like that, so you should assume that his frankness is intended to simply inform you. He would not expect you to kill him for simply speaking ruthlessly. And he's right. It's no crime to say ruthless things.

If he expects you to react to his statements in any fashion, it would be for you to attempt to talk him out of pre-meditated murder.

Insight

For now, tell him the truth about why you are here (remind him that you've already told him the most important part). Then engage him in a conversation about political leadership by asking if it wouldn't be better to convert opponents than kill them. He will admit that it usually is the case and then attempt to argue that some opponents simply cannot be converted; this is where you point out that killing someone is not the only way to politically neutralize them. Removing all their support by converting their followers is just as effective, and has the benefit of not utterly alienating squeamish people, and people who are sympathetic to the opponent.

>>244523

One last thought. Aren't animate suits of armor a popular sort of golem? Fight enough of them and you could indeed turn into a suit of armor.

>>245984
Oh I remembered it. It's just that reminding her of that would make me miss a chance to corrupt. Or open her eyes to the truth as I see it. Either way it's a lot more fun than making her into some sort of living saint that converts everyone into happy go lucky people who never hurts a fly. Granted, my influence is likely to be negliant and things will turn out in a somewhat predictable way and I will get bored of it all. But for now it's still interesting so I keep trying.

yeah, marcus doesn't seem the type to just lash out for no reason. you will be fine, just tell him the truth.

GaC: Know thy Enemy: END Trine!H508X.HbJ6 2010/10/20(Wed)12:09 No. 246329 ID: e31d52
File 128760179862.png - (68.98KB , 700x700 , 86.png )

>>245927
I... did?

I guess I did.

"I'm becoming a paladin in training. I... I can't feel the Spark, so I came to the underschool to train."

"You're not very good at long term planning, are you? You would have died down here."

"..."

"Furthermore, your deafness to the divine is more likely due to how you think than how strong you are physically."

"B-but-"

"And lastly, I think becoming a paladin is a waste of your talents."

"Wha?"

"You're an excellent fighter, but you're terribly with morality." he says, testing one of the tendons. "A Paladin doesn't sense evil. They seek it out, and ferret it from hiding with a number of techniques. There's a lot more to it than smiting and smashing. Frankly, you don't strike me as that sort of girl." he says further, threading a needle.

"Th-then what do I strike you as?"

"Someone trying to do the right thing for everyone she can. Right?"

"..."

"Let me guess, you want to help me? You want to divert me away from murder and whatnot?"

"..."

"The way to the top is paved with bones and painted in blood, decorated in gore and designed for betrayal. It is not a pretty path, but it's the one I've chosen. If you want to divert me from that, I seriously recommend against it."

"I want to help you in any way I can. The schools are in danger. That means my sisters are too."

"Then keep me alive." he says simply. he looks intently at the tendon.

He looks up at me, meeting my eyes. Wait, the teachers told me never to loo-

I see something. Like I'm sensing a cursed Item, but far, far worse. It hurts. It hurts! My eyes! It hurts! It's moving towards me! No!

Stay away!

Monster!

Samantha has LEVELED UP!

Samantha has gained additional HP and Transformation Panels!

Samantha can now specialize in a Form or a Style!

Please vote to specialize in one and what character we will focus on in the DISCUSSION THREAD: http://quest.lv/kusaba/questdis/res/328400.html