>>661215
I said she's not going to go through with the trial. She sets up the restraints and antimagic, gets Kexluk in them, and then Story never shows up. Also she already said that she has ways of covering up Kexluk's death if Story kills him.

She's practically spelling out that she can get away with murder. Kex just needs to give her the opportunity and she can force the gold out of him.

>How does the trial end with him telling her the location of the entire hoard?
Get him helpless and apply drugs, magic, or telepathy? There are a lot of weird options in this setting, the full extent we're unaware of.

Heck, she might just want Kex helpless so she can hold him and replace him with a shapeshifter, who will use Kex's new political influence her to push her into further power.

>Kex is a sorta-paladin, are you looking at this test of his dedication and humility, and telling him to weasel out of it on the grounds that Enlu is insisting too hard on making sure you're willing to trust to the good will of someone she has good reason to believe you've abused?
It's not a test of humility. It's a test of "do we really believe an influential politician jockeying for power is taking the risk of confronting a potentially abusive and definitely powerful and dangerous person just to assure herself of the safety of a slave she's known a day and not making a play that helps herself."

>>661216

Does she currently have any reason to think the gold is anywhere but where the dragon left it? I don't think Kex mentioned hiding it, just that he brought some back.

Also, who said anything about restraints? The only indication of that was when she said "head on the chopping block", and that was pretty clearly just a figure of speech. As for the antimagic, just tell her to get Story a magic detection item so he can tell Kex has no protections up, that should actually be a lot easier than getting anti-magic items. Being able to tell he's not using his magic should serve the purpose just as well as making him unable to use it at all.

>>661217
>drugs, magic, or telepathy
>shapeshifter

If she had options like that, she'd be using them already and have all the power she needs, she wouldn't save them to use on a paladin that dropped in out of nowhere in the last couple of days. Plus, if you're going so far with the "hey anything's possible with magic" argument, then for all we know she's a brain-sucking illithid in disguise.

My main argument still is, we have no evidence so far of any reason Enlu shouldn't be trusted. By the standards of what would be possible for someone living in this culture, she has done nothing wrong that we are aware of. Kexluk has a duty as a man of honor to trust her word until he has good, solid reasons not to.

Also, buddy, are you racist against nobles or something?

>>661220
Well obviously he hid it? I mean why would she think otherwise? Also, she could have easily had someone check on the hoard right after Kex left, and they would have had time to report back.
As for restraints, do you honestly think it would be a legitimately threatening execution trial if he wasn't physically restrained in some way? In case you haven't noticed, Kex is fucking massive. Also have you ever seen anyone at a "chopping block" of any kind without being restrained?

>>661222
>Well obviously he hid it? I mean why would she think otherwise?

Because it's a dragon's hoard! Mr. Baggins can only carry so much, you know. With the dragon's help, yes, you've got huge arms and wings that can push whole dunes of gold coins around the place, but Kex and Nezul wouldn't be able to do move it around so quickly by themselves.

On the topic of restrains, why assume a "legitimately threatening execution trial"? Like are you imagining Kex will be tied to a post with a firing squad lined up in front of him? All it'll be is giving Story the opportunity to kill Kex and letting him not do that. So just have Kex kneel down, let Story put the crossbow bolt to the back of his neck with finger on the trigger, and that's all you need.

This is a society where kobolds being slaves is apparently considered some sort of divine order mandated from on high. If Lady Enlu does want to eventually see kobolds freed, she has every reason to be very cagey about who she reveals it to, as that attitude is held to be a kind of blasphemy. What if Story Seeker's been having his adventures with her, and he's gone "hey Lady Enlu we could get my good buddy Kexluk on our side" and she went "oh gee Story I'd love to but I'm really nervous about bringing a lizardman who's a champion of order in on this" and Story went "well hey just give him a test where he'll show he's willing to put himself in my power, that'll prove he doesn't have the same attitude as the church here" and she went "oh yes Story I will do that that's a good idea"...

... and now here we are?

>>661247
I don't think Enlu and Story are friends. He didn't want to say Tulip's name out loud.

JESUS FUCKING CHRIST WHAT A BITCH! You have done nothing but try to be civil to her and she couldn't even be arsed to try extending you the same courtesy. She may be a noble but you just dealt with a dragon and horde of undead that have been plaguing the city and still she has you do trials and calls you a vagabond, WE'RE A GODS DAMNED HOLY PALADIN . Maybe we should just take SS and deal with the consequences and I don't think there will be as many as she implies.

>>661201
Why is she so adamant about this whole execution thing and making you helpless.
>I am not afraid of that outcome
What is she playing at
>>661254
Damn straight, fuck this and fuck her .

>>661220
>she wouldn't save them to use on a paladin that dropped in out of nowhere in the last couple of days
You mean she wouldn't spend her resources to control or influence the biggest game charger in town, who just upset a decades old stalemate, and could potentially put any one of the major factions here he chose to aid in control?

Kex is the perfect choice to spend resources she's been saving on. She's never gonna have an opportunity this easy to better herself.

>Plus, if you're going so far with the "hey anything's possible with magic" argument, then for all we know she's a brain-sucking illithid in disguise.
Technically not impossible, but that's not something easily purchasable with money, unlike potions or contractors. Something she could obtain is more probable than something she is.

But hey, it's not as if we don't already know that truth detecting magics exist. Or mind reading magic.

>Also, who said anything about restraints?
It's pretty much mandatory if Kex is supposed to be helpless such that an abused slave could believe he was free to kill him without possible retribution.

>My main argument still is, we have no evidence so far of any reason Enlu shouldn't be trusted
That's the standard of proof when trying to convict someone. You err on the side of not convicting the innocent. When you're trying to decide if you should make yourself helpless trusting someone the standard of proof is much lower. "Do I have reason for reasonable suspicion" is sufficient. You err on the side of not walking into an obvious trap even if you haven't experienced the firsthand evidence of being betrayed yet.

Is there any actual reason not to kill her? We know she's a conniving little schemer.

1/4 Kexluk 2015/08/09(Sun)12:17 No. 661340 ID: dd338c
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>You haven't really entertained the thought of bedding her at all
It is not difficult to do. Every time I think of it, I feel the sting of betrayal as that girl in that.... inappropriate outfit threw my sword away, dooming me to Zirkala's mercy.

It is also easy to see her less flattering traits! Yes, if she were remotely nice, I imagine I would have to try harder to resist any advances - and that is key, here. False Zirkala, which to date I must assume was some kind of soulless golem or some such creature controlled by Zirkala, was polite. Likeable. Like I would enjoy getting to know her more. Perhaps it was her false desperation to make it believable, but it was clear that she recognized me as a potential saviour.

But Enlu? I do not do what I do for fame, glory or even respect, nor will I ask Enlu for it, but to immediately be treated as some intruder who pestered her guards to get in? She treats me coldly and like a potential enemy. The more I speak to her, the more I think even my old self would have had difficulty liking her.

>It's possible she could be a Zirkala body double
No.

I do not want to think that. I cannot.

I used to hunt liches. I used to absolutely adore girls with excellent bodies.

To now suffer a fate in which I have to suspect every attractive girl who treats me with an ounce of respect is, in reality, a powerful lich spying on me?

That is a fate of nightmares and dread. No, for my own sanity, I must assume that this girl has a live body, with her own mind for better or worse, and attempt to make informed decisions not based on the curves of her body.

And I cannot see why she would kill me here. It is difficult and risky, but I will choose to entertain this trial of trust.

"Alright. I accept this mock-execution. I will choose the crossbow option."
>"Very well. We will do this quickly, since we all have important matters to attend to."
"And would you simply tell Story Seeker there are anti magic wards? We need not -"
>"No. I have a feeling he can tell whether or not there is a ward. Guards, bind Kexluk and fetch the anti-magic ward."

2/4 Kexluk 2015/08/09(Sun)12:17 No. 661341 ID: dd338c
File 143914785637.png - (232.59KB , 800x800 , 9-184.png )

This is rather humiliating, nevermind the original idea was to kneel over a stone with an axe over my head.

I am led to a chamber, where Story Seeker is called. My magic stores are mostly locked, after all. The wards are not cheap, but I am practiced with trying to work around them. I may be still be able to cast magic that directs myself, such as stone skin and strength, but while not completely helpless, what would be a trivial fight if things went bad would now become a challenge.

"Story Seeker." Enlu says. "This, as you know, is your old master, who claims that he has treated you well. I do not know whether or not to believe him. He has agreed to be made helpless - our best mages have confirmed that they are unable to cast any magic. If you wish to kill Kexluk, you may do so with immunity to any penalties. I am giving you a special decree that if he treated you poorly, then he is my enemy - and a lizard owner ordering kobolds to fight their enemy lizards take responsibility for it, not the kobolds. Therefore, there is no reason to hide your feelings for Kexluk. If you truly meant it when you said he was a good person, then lower the crossbow. If you think he deserves death, then all you need to do is to pull the trigger."
>"Ah! Well, I need not think of it, Lady Enlu! He really is a good gu-"
>"Lady Enlu!" A guard comes shouting down the hall.

3/4 Kexluk 2015/08/09(Sun)12:18 No. 661343 ID: dd338c
File 143914790457.png - (114.59KB , 800x800 , 9-185.png )

>"Lady Enlu, pardon the intrusion!"
>"Well? What is it?"
>"There's a rumor that spreading through the town masses like wildfire, moreso than what would come from some no name naysayer! Forward scouts have reported that the undead are cleared out as far as we can tell, but the dragon might still be alive!"

4/4 Kexluk 2015/08/09(Sun)12:19 No. 661344 ID: dd338c
File 143914794977.png - (111.64KB , 800x800 , 9-186.png )

What? That's impossible. No, perhaps not impossible, but the time frame for this knowledge to spread is absurd.

>"Kexluk, do you have an explanation for this?" Lady Enlu asks, although there is no accusation in her tone.

Well of course I do. I will gladly tell you the whole story after we are done here.

...I must say, I am somewhat disappointed you would place me in this situation and not even lock the door. It is fortunate I do not have overmany enemies here.

>the time frame for this knowledge to spread is absurd.
Maybe it is impossible. Maybe this is actually Enlu's play- make you helpless and then test you. See how you respond. Seeing if you're really what you claim to be. (Maybe blackmail you if she discovers a secret).

>Kexluk, do you have an explanation for this?
I do not. I thought I faced a dragon, not a lich with a hidden phylactery or some other trick.

I believe we have not completed your test yet, though, until Story fires or I am released.

>>661344
Ask if you're done here. You have to investigate these rumors.

"This news shocks me as much as you! Not only that signs of the dragon still being alive have been discovered at all, but the speed of it. It is possible, albeit extremely unlikely, that the dragon I dealt with was some manner of illusion or an ensorcelled ghoul designed to trick me, though I deal with such things often and only the most powerful mages have ever managed to fool my senses. Even if that were so, however this rumor has come far too fast! It seems impossible to me that the same dragon I faced could have appeared again so quickly.

But... there is a disturbing possibility. While he was pleading for his life, the dragon told me that he was the son of a lich, by name of Frozque. It was from her that he received the artifact that allowed him to raise his undead army. It is possible that, during my mission, I triggered some other magic that she had set for his benefit. Or, perhaps, some manner of alarm that has alerted another dragon to come take advantage now that his territory is open."

I'm being honest with most of this speculation, actually.

No outright lying to her. We were planning on letting people know about the plan with the dragon once we were able to let them know the true nature of things.

Say that you can't comment on rumors but one way or another there problems with the dragon will be dealt with today. That being said we should finish this test so that we can discuss things further and look into these rumors.

>>661344
There could be more then one dragon. The origin of the threat, I believe, came from the dragon's mother who was a lich that perished some time ago. I gathered that much when I observed the angry shouts and echoes of the undead that had come to avenge their ward. When the undead were wiped out, one of their brother's or sister's may have come over to check the situation, maybe they could sense it. It's possible they could have all been necromancers in training and sense the death of their brother... or the dragon was a lich and I actually merely destroyed one of its golem bodies.

I am not that incompetent of a dragon slayer. There's something more to this situation than I realized. I suppose I knew it was too easy, beyond the difficulty spending a whole hour killing EVERY undead the dragon had.
At least the undead are gone, then. Now you probably have to deal with the dragon's siblings and/or its lich form until it acquires more bodies to make into undead. It will be some time before that happens. Allow me to investigate with Story Seeker, I'm much too curious at this time. I missed this factor because I didn't have him at my side for the fight. I'm operating at half capacity without him, why do you think I stomached this humiliation?

Either this is a setup or that dragon's an idiot.
Guess which.

"Without more information, I find this news perplexing in the extreme. By my honor, I can assure you that according to every sense I possess, that dragon was no further threat to this city."

oh! Show off the scale you got, as proof you fought it.

1/3 Kexluk 2015/08/09(Sun)19:38 No. 661403 ID: dd338c
File 143917428928.png - (162.51KB , 800x800 , 9-187.png )

"This news shocks me as much as it does you. I have several hypothesis as to why this may be, but I must investigate these rumors. Are we done with the trial?"
>"Hrm... not yet, but we can finish this. Story Seeker, raise your crossbow, and choose whether or not to fire."
"Ah, I am still opting to not fire! Even if I could kill him for whatever reason?"
>"Make certain that is your decision - this is your only chance, and you need not fear him or fear retribution. You may kill simply if you felt like it."
"That's no good! I apologize, Miss, but if I may be so bold, I feel that you may want me to kill Kexluk?"
>"I want you to do what you want to do."
"Then I will set the crossbow down!"

This constant barrage of asking Story Seeker if he is absolutely certain nearly gets out of hand. Just as I feel a need to put an end to it, though, she nods.

>"Guards, undo Kexluk's binds, and disable the ward."

2/3 Kexluk 2015/08/09(Sun)19:39 No. 661404 ID: dd338c
File 143917435832.png - (111.44KB , 800x800 , 9-188.png )

>"Very well, Kexluk," Enlu continues, "it seems like you're a good owner after all. You may have your slave back - however, this news is rather dire. Now, it seems that whether or not you killed the dragon is in question. You claimed to slay the dragon?"
"As I have said, the threat has been removed."
>"I am not asking about the threat, though, Kexluk, I am asking about the dragon's own death."
"There is more to this situation than I realized, perhaps. I must investigate whether or not the dragon is still there and these rumors and act based upon my findings. Although my mission was to slay the dragon, given the necrotic properties, it is entirely possible I was dealing with a Lich Dragon."
>"Hrm...."

3/3 Kexluk 2015/08/09(Sun)19:45 No. 661406 ID: dd338c
File 143917470129.png - (165.64KB , 800x800 , 9-189.png )

Enlu manages to position herself in the door outward before I think to leave first.

>Show of the scale you got
Unfortunately that was confiscated as well, but they have seen the scale to at least prove that I had seen the dragon.

>"Kexluk, I ask that you not bother yourself. I do believe that you have dealt with the dragon adequately, but you need not exhaust yourself endlessly. We will investigate. If we require your help, then we will ask for it, but I am sure the rumors are being investigated by the town and the dragon presence investigated by the guard. You've at least proven the dragon is beatable, allow yourself some rest."
"I cannot accept this. Story Seeker and I shall depart immediately, if Story Seeker is able, and so I insist you move out of the way."
"Yep, I'm good! Thanks Enlu, but I must back Kexluk up in letting us through?"
>"And I insist that you stay. I know my conduct has seemed cold, but I trust you more, now, Kexluk, and I hope you can trust me more as well, after this. And, as you said yourself - the dragon threat was removed, and so investigation is just busy work."
"And as I also said, it is possible that the dragon had some magical means to play dead, that I would not forgive myself if I had let slip under my chin."
>"Please, Kexluk. I honestly am sorry for my harsh tone before. Please forgive me, I believe you know how easily our kind can be corrupted with power, and you may be the most powerful lizard I have met, so I am honestly surprised you let us bind you. I suppose I cannot stop you if you honestly want to force your way out, no, but it would be the least I can do to make up for my inhospitality by letting you make yourself at home. Enjoy your food, bathe, even get new clothes - I know that paladins do not care for material wealth, but one's appearance can be important."

>>661406
"I do care for the town's safety."

"I thank you for the hospitality, Lady Enlu, and in most circumstances I would be happy to accept it! However, your description of me as the most powerful lizardfolk you've met demonstrates something that, if you will forgive my bluntness, I have come to realize about this whole region: you do not have experience with the kinds of true power there are in this world. I suspect that even Story Seeker, here, has personally dealt with beings more powerful than any inhabitant of Spearstone. It is rude of me to say so, but your people may well have no idea what they're dealing with!

I will promise to return to you as soon as I am able, if you wish it, and if you wish to offer me anything that I could take with me or benefit from with only a few moment's pause then I am glad to receive it; I have no desire to shame you by being your guest and then leaving in such a state as I am in. But these rumors raise my suspicions that there is an unknown third party now influencing events. It is my opinion as a professional hunter of evil monsters and mages that innocent life may now be in danger and that I might need to act quickly to prevent it."

I have no interest in forcing a path through you. Though, I must admit I am curious why you consider providing hospitality more important than an expected development with regards to public safety.

I will admit I also trust you a good deal more than I did previously, as it seems you truly did you set yourself against an allegedly dangerous and abusive opponent for the sake of a slave you barely knew.

...unless, was the messenger another test? (That would be one reason we certainly don't need to leave- scouts aren't back yet, no investigation).

The other explanation would be she's stalling us so the investigation can see what we actually accomplished.

>thought
I wonder how much she can really be trusted. If she really did just go through all that for Story's sake, she's a lot better person than I was expecting. The kind of person we might want to have more power in this town. And the church is going to lose a lot of face when we steal the artifact- she might be willing to cooperate with a plan to discredit them, especially with people she considers trustworthy.

I'd want to consult with Story and Tulip, see what they've learned, before I'd consider a gambit working with her.

I might be willing to stay here if you are willing to explain the real reason why you are standing in front of that door. We can always talk in private if you wish. Plus we have info that may help in these "investigations".

She might have lost friends or family to the dragon. Or most of what we have seen of her could be a act. Her life and position depends on hiding her true emotions. Now that you know she is not out to kill you it might be a good idea to talk to her in private and explain that the dragon was just a stupid pawn that had no real control over the undead. And your plan to have him serve you to eventually make up for the harm he could have mitigated.

The dragon rumors could just be a scout noticing the fat dragon flying off or it could be a sibling incoming. Or this could be to buy time for her people to do something. Say find the hidden horde or more info.

So not saying push past her and leave but maybe have a private meeting instead of just lazing around. Plus we have work to do and artifacts don't steal themselves. Plus if the townspeople did find fat dragon you are sort of responsible for his safety. If he gets killed now because he got stuck in a nearby valley after spraining a wing it would be on your head.

>>661406
Ask her for a private audience, then once you're alone ask her what exactly she's trying to achieve by keeping you in her house.

>>661406
Listen, Enlu, making myself at home would be having fun slaying undead dragons or whatever the hell this weird situation is. You think this is a burden?

This is a good time waiting to happen.
Also, story seeker seeks stories. I mean, come ooooooooooon. I can't leave my little bard behind on this

Tell her we need to investigate that; it wouldn't be the first time someone vanquished a monster only for its even more deadly mother or something to show up for revenge and ruin everyone's day. If that is the case than this would be very much our responsibility to deal with.
(That isn't even a lie. Considering how advanced the artifact is and its function as essentially a villain nanny, I would be surprised if it didn't double as a monitoring device to keeps tabs on the dragon and raise an alert if he gets in too much danger. While it is less likely that there is someone left to receive that alert and arrive this quickly, that chance is not small enough to ignore.)

Oh right and since she's using the "power corrupts" thing against us, why not point out we could say the same of her?

Ask Story if he thinks she's legit, now that he's free of her.

"I still want to see as soon as possible, which means NOW, whether this is the same dragon I confronted."

Is she....friends with the dragon? Originally I thought she wanted SS to kill you so she could keep him, but what if she first tried to kill you as revenge for killing the dragon then upon hearing the roomer she continued to try to get SS to kill you to stop you from finishing the job, that didn't work so now shes trying to stop you from leaving without giving herself away.

>>661406
Tell her, "It's my fault the dragon is still alive. I'm so used to hunting liches, that I didn't make sure the dragon was dead. I should go and finish the job, otherwise if someone else dies then it will be my fault for failing to finish off the dragon!"

If she says you can go, then go. If she still refuses, then say, "I thought you wanted the dragon dead? Please, let me pass, so that I may grant your wish. Unless, you don't actually want the dragon dead. Is that what you're doing right now? Are you stalling me, so that the dragon has enough time to escape?" When you ask her that, cast "Detect Lie" or "Detect Bullshit" to see if she's telling the truth or if she's trying to bullshit you!

The only reason for her stopping you I could think of is that she wishes to protect the dragon, herself. Story Seeker showed nothing but kindness to her even as she questioned if he really wanted you to live, so he definitely trusts her, and that's all you need.

1/2 Kexluk 2015/08/10(Mon)17:03 No. 661553 ID: dd338c
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"Enjoy myself? This is what I do, Lady Enlu. This is what I enjoy. Slaying those undead is among the most fun I've had in months, but it may have been for naught. Perhaps I was too hasty, and the thought of the dragon slipping through my fingers to remain a harm to the town would gnaw at me, preventing me from enjoying myself here even if I tried. You say you wanted that dragon dead? Then stand aside, and allow me to make sure of that. Furthermore, I would like to allow my bard to live up to his name, which I doubt could happen satisfactorily here."
>"Do you not believe our investigators to be up to the task?"
"If I am to speak openly, from what I have seen, Spearstone is a place that has had little to no experience with the grand power some individuals possess. Yes, it is possible your investigators will handle this and I will go out for nothing, but there is a chance that is not the case."
>"We'll come back as soon as we can, though, Lady Enlu!" Story Seeker chimes in. "I do hope that just because I'm no longer your slave, doesn't mean that I cannot visit the slave quarters here should I find free time to do so, during this visit or another."

I am curious what Story Seeker would say about Lady Enlu in private, but there is still little reason to ask him in front of her. I still do not know if he would speak openly.

2/2 Kexluk 2015/08/10(Mon)17:03 No. 661554 ID: dd338c
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"Hrm... hm.......... of course you are, Story Seeker. Alright, go, then, with my blessing, but please do return so I can express my apologies properly. Just, be warned, Kexluk, I believe the townsfolk were going to be ecstatic about your successful return, but hearing that you may have returned without killing the dragon may make your reception mixed."
>"Thank you, then. Please fetch my things, or show me where they are so that I may get them myself."
"Of course. Guards, please seek out Kexluk and meet him at the front gate.

Perhaps I should rush to the dragon, but it may be best to attempt to figure out how this rumor started in the first place.

Talk to the scouts, find out what they know.

>>661554
Cast "Detect Lie" to find the guy who started the rumor! Alternatively, you could cast "Detect Bullshit" to find him.

Honestly you need to decide if you are going to tell people about the dragon and what was going on or if you are going to just hide him any lie about it.

As for the rumors they could have started several places. Nezul could have accidentally let something slip. They could have trackers near that area that caught a glimpse of the dragon flying away. Or the dragon could have gotten tired fast and still is in plain sight somewhere. Who knows maybe one of his family members did notice things and came to visit.

Finding Tulip will help. If the crowd gets angry you might want to tell them about the reparations and such that will be dealt with in the coming days.

And if anyone gives you crap bring up how you found out the dragons mother was a great lich and he had family.

Story Seeker has bardic magic, yes? Perhaps he has some spell that cancels sound beyond a certain range, to make eavesdropping impossible. Then you could easily converse privately with him.

Oh, cast Detect Evil on Story Seeker just for kicks.
Have you ever had the presence of mind to cast it on Zirkala? Or can the results be faked by powerful mages?

>>661554
Cast "Detect Giant Boobs" to see if the "sword" in your pants will point towards Enlu! XD

>>661579
I suppose that would tell us if he's been replaced with an evil fake or something.

>Perhaps I should rush to the dragon
You should talk with SS quickly, first. Exchange stories and ideas so you proceed correctly.

Maybe if you're lucky Tulip will find you too.

>>661595
Closest we have is Story's detect gender.

If you get the chance to talk to Story Seeker alone, let him know that the Dragon was... trapped in that situation by the Lich who created the undead army. Not exactly enslaved, as permanently grounded, considering the Lich was his mother.

Kexluk 2015/08/10(Mon)20:49 No. 661616 ID: dd338c
File 143926499216.png - (84.04KB , 800x800 , 1-192.png )

>Cast Detect Evil on Story Seeker/Zirkala
I make a habit of not detecting evil unless I feel it imperative enough to do so. I have never had a reason to distrust Story Seeker enough to do so, and I did not bother doing so on a lich. By the time I would have thought to do so, she had already spared me.

As for powerful mages being able to trick the spell, doing so is as tricky as the spell itself. It is entirely possible to have it backfire, and a moderate criminal could make himself out, to the right paladin, to be the very incarnation of evil itself.

>Detect Lie/Bullshit to find the rumor starter
I require a target to use this on! And this spell is still unreliable.

>Story Seeker has bardic magic, yes? Perhaps he has some spell that cancels sound beyond a certain range, to make eavesdropping impossible. Then you could easily converse privately with him.
There is no rush - doing so in the presence of others would be crass in Enlu's own house, when I can simply hold a conversation after I leave.

>Honestly you need to decide if you are going to tell people about the dragon and what was going on or if you are going to just hide him any lie about it.
Hm. I have been getting by, with distaste and conflicted feelings, by telling lies of omission.

"I would like to speak to the scouts, Enlu. Where would I find any in town?"
>"You would have trouble finding scouts in town who knew anything significant, I'm afraid. I expect that if you want to search rumors, I'd suggest either the bazaar or the outer walls. I have also heard - and I must insist that this is merely another rumor that I cannot swear by - that Taqlue, another noble in town, has some kind of surveillance item pointed at the dragon's region. If that is the case, though, it would certainly be a secret."
"Thank you for your information, now, we must be off!"

2/2 Kexluk 2015/08/10(Mon)20:50 No. 661617 ID: dd338c
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It takes some time before my things are returned, but it is not an insufferable wait and all of my things are there, so I hold my complaints. While Story Seeker and I move down, I have him use his bardic magic to create silence for us just in case someone unseen is around, so I may speak.

"Tell me, Story Seeker. What do you honestly think of Lady Enlu?"
>"Well I must confess that she does seem terribly difficult for other lizardmen to negotiate with! I'm impressed, Kexluk, I didn't know you could pull that off! Anyway, she does treat us kobolds nice. Some kobolds just think she does so because she doesn't think we're a threat to her like other lizards, but I think, it's better to be nice for a bad reason than be awful for no reason! And hey, I do miss my old clothes, but she let me have these ones. Oh, did I mention there's a tailor in my home caves? She's a new tailor, but she's more than willing to make sure she gets it right eventually."
"Thank you, but that is an offer far away in a distant time. But, everything else is relieving to hear. You trust her, then?"
>"Ah, I would certainly be on my toes if I were one of her rivals or if I had something she wanted, so I would not be caught dipping my trust in her over you or Zirkala. Now, Kexluk, it's a great feeling to be reunited with you, and I must take advantage of that by asking you what adventures you engaged in while away?"
"Yes, to date, I would say the only thing of importance is that I have gathered Tulip, who is gathering information inside of the outer walls - ah, of course, no doubt she has heard the rumors, and if we can find her, then that would be an excellent leaping start on that matter should we choose. Of course, we may wish to go straight to the dragon himself. There was that mention of Taqlue, but it was said to be a simple rumor that sounds like nothing but a timesink."
>"Maybe... what is the dragon like, by the way?"
"The only reason why I cannot say he is the worst dragon I have ever seen is because he is the only dragon I have ever seen, so I have no comparison."
>"Oh? That dreadful? I dare not wonder what atrocities he's committed beyond what I've heard."
"... I meant, more, the worst at being a dragon. I shall tell you more later, as that is a story I would want to tell well."
>"Certainly! Say, I learned something interesting - you know that relic of order we're interested in and all? I heard that there was a partner to it, a relic of chaos, used as a counterbalance somehow!"

>>661617
What?! A second relic? Where, is it here? If we took the Order relic, would not the town collapse into chaos due to the imbalance? Then again, Chaos is not always bad. Maybe we should take both just to be sure.

Anyway, I think our best lead is Tulip right now, let's go find out what she's learned.

Well that's interesting news. But it does throw a wrench in our plans just a bit. If we take the order relic than we leave the town open to even more chaos. Which might not be to bad in the short term but is something to consider.

Maybe your friend Mu would like it as a gift.

Anyways I think reuniting with Tulip is a good start. She will have info for us and it would be nice to let her know that any rumors of me are unfounded. Then we need to decide what to do about the dragon situation and find more about these relics.

Honestly it might just be a good idea to throw the bulk of the restitution money at Lady Enlu later tonight and let her deal with the politics and getting the word out about the pathetic dragons story.

Oh this is a chance for Story to write a song about the event. If you tell him your tale he can try to whip up a song that makes the dragon out to be a pathetic wretch snared by cruel necromancy. A few lines about a overbearing mother and how he was forced into a life of crime by his cruel skeleton masters and you might have a hit that would redirect the public's anger. That with some money coming in from the recovered horde and people might quickly forget about hating the dragon.

>>661617
So how'd you get picked up by Enlu anyway? I'm surprised word around town about me and that you were available getting locked up spread so quickly. There was absolutely no paperwork about the whole thing, it honestly surprises me how this society's slave economy doesn't collapse without any deeds or something like that. It seems word of mouth is all that's needed to claim a slave.

I don't even know if any proper paperwork was made about our arrest, even.

Perhaps it would be best if Story Seeker gave us a summary of what's happened to him. Also, what other important things did he hear of, and where did he hear them?

Also tell Story the full background to this current dragon issue, and ask his advice on what we should tell people. He's more socially capable than you, Kex, if you don't mind me saying.

>"Certainly! Say, I learned something interesting - you know that relic of order we're interested in and all? I heard that there was a partner to it, a relic of chaos, used as a counterbalance somehow!"
You do still have the relic from the Dragon, right? That would be something to tell Story Seeker about, as while it is likely unrelated to the two, you never know.
...Of course, it is part of the story of the dragon, so maybe you should locate Tulip and talk about it in the inn.

>>661617
Wait a minute! Back the fuck up! Two relics?!?! Which one did Zirkala want us to take? Or did she want us to bring them both back?

>>661638
She talked about Order, but if the second relic is used to operate the first one in a useful way, she'll want both.

>two relics counterbalancing each other
That has an implied positive. If we remove one, we cause imbalance. But if we took both (whether our mission counts one as extra or not) stability might be maintained.

...I wonder if the opposite could be the undead generating artifact you already got your hands on?

Kexluk 2015/08/11(Tue)15:36 No. 661734 ID: dd338c
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>Did you bring the artifact with you?
No, however, I hid it away in a personally inspected position. Perhaps I should have brought it with me, but it would have been difficult to hide its essence from the townsolk's more magically inclined individuals, and I do not know if I want that sort of pressure from the town to surrender it to them. Hindsight, however, is proving that perhaps it was the wrong decision.

"A chaos artifact? You mention the word counterbalancing - this would mean that Zirkala may want both, if they are to operate in conjunction. Or at the very least, prevent the town from plummeting into chaos if that is all we leave them with."
>"That's probably a good idea! Although I am sure you have tales to the contrary, I have actually had pleasant experience with chaos."
"It is not always bad, and order is not always good. It is not a contest of good and evil, and although I fight for order, they each have their place."
>"Well put! And even if taking the chaos artifact was not necessary, I'm sure my slime friend, Muo, would appreciate such a gift."
"Muo? I feel I have heard you mention this one before. A friend, correct?"
>"Yes! A friend, slime, and chaos follower."
"A follower, or a follower with the God's blessing?"
>"The latter!"
"Oof. You certainly have found yourself in the company of the powerful. I am relieved she is your friend, even the most incompetent of chaos blessed are an enormous pain. Then again, I have a feeling it's the most incompetent that are favored. Regardless, enough on that. I have an idea! The dragon I have mentioned, although also incompetent, a coward, and generally pitiful, I don't believe him to be evil, only caught up in disaster without bravery or strength to get out. I would like for Spearstone to, if not forgive him, have him become accepted to the idea that he is not the demon they have thought he was. Is it possible for me to tell my tale to you in greater detail, and have you spread the tale with a twist on the dragon's fate being wrung from his hands?"
>"Haha, Kexluk, that is what I do! I would be honored."
"Excellent! It need not be immediate, however, because for now, I suggest we find Tulip."
>"Understood, but, would it be better if we split up? After all, it seems like the ground to cover is our priority! Where may Tulip be found, anyways?"

No idea. I was hoping she would find me later.

If you went back to your inn, she might have turned up, so you should check there if you can do so quickly. If she's not, then you have no idea, you just expected her to be able to find you again. If you stay still in the same place for a while, she'll likely turn up, so you should just pick something constructive to do that will have you be visibly in the same location for some time. Interviewing the scouts, for example.

He probably doesn't, but does Story Seeker have any spell to make small, mundane objects? It's a cantrip conjurers often have, I think, but a bard probably not. I ask because some token of your authority for your slaves to carry really would be useful if you're going to send them out on errands. If you don't have such a thing, I would advise you not split up.

Is it possible for Story to use a variant of this anti-eavesdropping spell to enable himself to speak to you clandestinely, without anyone noticing that he's doing so? Once you're in company, there may be things he would like to say to you that the local lizards would not consider it proper for a kobold to say.

>spread the tale with a twist on the dragon's fate being wrung from his hands?

Oh, and if you do this, you'll need to resolve it somehow with you and Nezul letting everyone assume you killed him, you know. If you don't, either the tale will come off as false, or everyone finds out you bent the truth, or you come across as cruel to the dragon.

She was scouting the outer city for me. Did not have any specific meet up location but the general plan was for her to um wander around and we did not have a plan honestly. I mean she is going to find out stuff but we never talked about how she was going to find me.

Maybe if we wander around a bit asking around word will get back to her?

>>661734
>maybe it was a mistake to hide the artifact
You couldn't bring it into the city. With a big enough population there's always someone dying. If you'd brought the relic in with you, undead would be popping up after every natural death (and the unnatural ones too). That wouldn't have been safe, and could have caused a panic.

>Where may Tulip be found, anyways?
I do not know. We split up earlier, to search for information. I was hoping she would find me, but events have moved rather quicker than I expected, even with our deadline. (A lich setting a deadline. Haha).

I have not told her the full truth, yet.

1/3 Kexluk 2015/08/11(Tue)18:14 No. 661767 ID: dd338c
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"I do not know! I was hoping to have her find me after a time, but events have progress faster than intended. We may stop by the inn, first if only to check if she has checked in at first. By the way, I have not yet told her the full truth of the matter of our mission."
>"I would imagine not! I will say, inside Enlu's estate? I must say, it seems to be the local pasttime to gossip and pass on rumors. Why, I learned a great deal about the town - only so much useful, mind you - in the last day."
"Which reminds me, how DID you come into Enlu's possession, anyway?"
>"Well! I had gone to a local gathering of kobolds who wanted to, well, gossip, about the world out there! Of course that was pleasant, but before I had a chance to learn more myself, lizard guards apparently caught wind and swarmed us! Now, many kobolds knew the escape routes like the back of their hand, but alas, despite my best efforts to try and keep up, I managed get turned right back around into their grasp! Now, they say that an outsider kobold is valuable, especially one who has kept his health up like I have, and so there were some talks! Perhaps you don't know, but Enlu was not actually personally there, it was merely a spokesperson of hers who was making a whitewind trip, saying that Lady Enlu would be interested in me."
"Hm. Do they know that you know magic?"
>"Ah, yes! I have attempted to keep that on the down-low, but it was not long before magicians could sense it in me. It is always quite hard to know how they do that."
"And unrelatedly, do you know how to make small mundane objects?"
>"I apologize for saying no! It is a cantrip outside of my current abilities."
"No matter. Perhaps more relevantly, a matter of anti-eavedropping you can use in the presense of others, such as ventriloquism for my ears only?"
>"It is on my magical wish list! But alas, no, while I can attempt to do so, I expect it is not worth the risk given my high, high chance of failure."
"Lastly, please put your emblem on, if you still have that?"
>"Ah, I managed to hide my first emblem during a brief town trip when I had a quick chance - hopefully no one has found it, but I believe I hid it well! But! Lady Enlu had her own emblem for me to use, and I don't believe it will cause issue if I simply flip it around to its flat side. Perhaps you could forge your own emblem for me?"
"Hrm, I had thought of that, but neglected to do anything beyond that. I am hoping that by the time a blacksmith could forge such a thing, we shall be on our way and you need not pretend to be my slave."

2/3 Kexluk 2015/08/11(Tue)18:14 No. 661768 ID: dd338c
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I tell Story Seeker the quick summary of the tale, at least, enough to make a story out of perhaps, but all the small details will have to wait some more, as we leave Enlu's gates.

And indeed, Enlu was correct. Some people give me the benefit of the doubt and beg for me to go finish what I started, while others not so pleasant, instead yelling at me to go finish what I started.

I alert them, even raising my voice accompanied with assistance from Story Seeker's magic, that I have no intention of sitting still if there is any chance there is a dragon threat.

3/3 Kexluk 2015/08/11(Tue)18:15 No. 661769 ID: dd338c
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Somehow, we make it to the inn.

>"A kobold asking for you?" the innkeep asks. "I'm sorry, but your slave has not been here since you left."

Tulip must still be in the outer walls after all.

"It is no worry. If you have not heard, there are scouts investigating the rumored, persistent dragon threat that I had thought I had squashed. Would you know where the scouts would be at?"
>"Well, sir, normally I would say the guard headquarters, but since it sounds like they are all busy, I may suggest going to the drake den for any scouts who know much."

>>661769
...it's possible that Nezul spilled the beans. Let's go check on him. Hey, when he was talking about what happened on the trip back, what did he say exactly?

It would not take much for Nezul to accidentally let something slip. Everyone would have been clamoring for his story and he might have said to much.

If there is a long route that would let you pass by the outer areas you could take that to let everyone see you and give Tulip a idea of where you are.

I would suspect Nezul, but he has a very simple excuse that he's blind! All he had to do was say he heard the sounds of fighting but was unable to see anything himself. He also has a cantankerous enough personality that he could just tell inquisitive people to bugger off, and no-one would take it too amiss.

Head over there, anyway. I don't think the rumor started with him, but people may have started pressing him for details once it was out. Tell the innkeeper that if your slave does come by, you've gone to the drake den.

I wonder, if this town has such gossips, how easy would it be to plant rumors? Would it be hard to start spreading the idea that there could be another dragon? It is possibly true, after all, so it would prepare people for a potential danger as well as taking some heat off Kexluk.

>>661781

Spreading our own rumor would be as simple as loudly chatting with Story about how the dragon had a bunch of siblings near several groups of people.

Kexluk 2015/08/11(Tue)19:50 No. 661789 ID: dd338c
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"Tell my slave, should she return, that I shall be at the drake den."
>"Very well, sir."

I leave, and attempt to use alleyways as best as I can to avoid the public slowing us down.

"How easily do you think it would take to spread a rumor, anyways?"
>"Here? I expect there is a lot of competition to really get a rumor going, but, the rumor mill, as they said at Enlu's, is always in high production!"
>"Hm, is that so. Well, we are nearly at the drake's den."
"Shall I come with, or head off to search for Tulip's whereabouts?"

Yeah, he can move freely while you can't. Tell her to meet up with you back at the inn.

Yeah go look for her and listen for any new rumors. And maybe start some yourself if need be.

If you can't find me before nightfall head back to the inn and stay there for the night. Use your best judgement depending on the situation honestly.

>>661768
You think they'd be more happy to see the first person who even came back from fighting the dragon alive. "We stuck a blow" is a big step up from "all attempts failed!".

>split up
Um, if we're going to do, is there an easy way to find each other? You're both got basic magic- any way you could mark or ping the other so you could find them if you had to?

Hmm. I know you said it's impolite to Detect Evil on someone without good reason, but... if you Detect Evil on someone once, and then cast it on them again later, is the reading you get recognizable as them? Like, if you were worried about shapeshifters or illusions impersonating someone, would you be able to tell whether it's them or not by detecting that they don't give off the same Good/Evil rating?

If Story Seeker leaves to find Tulip, won't that just make two kobolds that you have to go find the location of later?

You really need to plan these things out a bit better methinks.

>>661789
You just barley got him back! Do you really want to go through rescuing him all over again? I think we can find Tulip together!

1/2 Kexluk 2015/08/12(Wed)17:17 No. 661892 ID: dd338c
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>You think they'd be more happy to see the first person who even came back from fighting the dragon alive.
Us lizards have a terrible reputation of being awfully hard to please. And, unfortunately, this stereotype was made for a decent reason.

>If you Detect Evil on someone once, and then cast it on them again later, is the reading you get recognizable as them? Like, if you were worried about shapeshifters or illusions impersonating someone, would you be able to tell whether it's them or not by detecting that they don't give off the same Good/Evil rating?
In theory, yes. However, the rating is seldom 'good' or 'evil' and more often in the middle, and this is also tricky to rely upon.

"Very well, Story Seeker, but come back to the inn should we not cross paths again by nightfall! I have already failed to plan sufficiently for sending Tulip off, and I do not care to repeat the same mistake. I will attempt to check the inn periodically as well, if I can."
>"Understood! See you later, then, I'll want to visit the drake den later!"

2/2 Kexluk 2015/08/12(Wed)17:18 No. 661894 ID: dd338c
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Story Seeker runs off, and I reach the drake den. It is far, far quieter than I would have expected, although there are a few individuals around.

>"Hey again, paladin! Welcome back. I hope you weren't wishing for another trip. Unfortunately, we cannot allow you to take Nezul again, as the powers above us told us specifically not to. Frankly, we should not have allowed it in the first place, but what's done is done. Furthermore, while there are a few drakes left, there are not enough to lift you even if all of them worked together."

Tell him you're just here to talk to Nezul, not to take him. Wait, they have fewer drakes now? Where are the others?

>>661894
This is acceptable, as I did not wish to set out again so soon.

I heard rumors there might be scouts here, with distressing reports about the dragon I did battle with? (Well, the battle was pretty weak and one wayed).

Wait, what about restoring Nezul's eyesight?

>>661906
I think we'd have to find a skilled healer to pay to do that, first.

1/2 Kexluk 2015/08/12(Wed)18:06 No. 661912 ID: dd338c
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>Wait, what about restoring Nezul's eyesight?
I was in such a hurry to bypass the town's public, that I did not get a good chance to settle affairs with healing Nezul.

"Where have the drakes gone?"
>"Scouts. After those rumors about the dragon still being around came up, which I'm sure you've heard by now, our place was bombarded with scouts paying us double fare for every drake in the den. Only the weaker ones are still here."
"I will not take Nezul, as I did not have immediate plans to set out. But! I would like to speak to him! May I do that little?"
>"Oh, sure, sure. That should be okay, but don't mind us if we're present."
"Is that necessary?" I say, walking to where Nezul's stall was.
>"Uhhhrr.... I don't want to insinuate, anything, Kexluk, but you Nezul wasn't supposed to be taken out in the first place. We're afraid you both might insist on doing it again, so we've been told to not let you."
"Hmph. I would dare think that these rumors included an unfair degree of slander."

2/2 Kexluk 2015/08/12(Wed)18:06 No. 661913 ID: dd338c
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I find Nezul in his stall, but it does not seem that I can have a private conversation easily.

"Nezul. How are you doing?"
"Angry. A false rumor apparently is enough to get every scout in town to pull out every goddamn drake, and leave none for you and bar me from the same. I told them, Kexluk! I told them there was no threat! I was there, I saw you vanquish the dragon."
>"Well, yes..." an escort chimes in. "But you're blind. You literally did not see what actually happened."
"You insufferable whelp! You act as though you know better than I what happened, despite that not a single one of your senses were at the scene?!
>"No, I'm telling you that we can't act like you had all yours there."

>>661912
>>661913
I think you should still mention your desire to heal Nezul to that drake renter.

We just want to make sure the powers that be don't mind that their hero isn't blind anymore, or if that would anger them. Like, do they WANT him blind?
What if he flys off on his own because he hates the powers that be? There's tension here. What rights DO drakes have compared to kobolds, especially in this hero's case. It's a perplexing notion, grounding a hero. You don't even have him in chains, if he runs off, are you like, going to shoot and/or kill him for disobeying the nobles?

I seriously want an in-depth discussion with this renter guy over this. All of it is SUPER confusing to me.

Yeah, about that rumor. When did he hear about it? How long after you got back? How could anyone have possibly suspected?

...could it be someone spread the rumor right as you got back, just to get the town on your ass? To pull the rug out from under you so they could try to keep you from getting more influence than the nobles?

This is all extremely suspicious. They think the dragon may be alive after all, so they make sure that the one person they know can fight the dragon is unable to do so?

I'm beginning to suspect someone in this town KNEW the dragon was an incompetent, and that the undead army was the only real threat. Then the rumour of the dragon still being alive would be excuse to mount a full search for the horde and/or artifact. Fortunately, if that's what they want, both are hidden, but the dragon's life is in danger. Ask who these orders came from, and then go ask that person where their orders came from, and so on up the line until you find the source.

Tell the drake attendant to tell any kobolds who come looking for you where you're going.

Kexluk 2015/08/12(Wed)19:13 No. 661925 ID: dd338c
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"Tell me of this rumor. When did you hear of it?" I say to the escort.
>"Not too long ago, maybe around 30 minutes?"

30 minutes ago, I was still at Enlu's, it was only around 10 minutes before the guard burst in to tell Enlu herself of the rumor.

I am exceedingly worried for Luzona's well being. Nezul was not a particularly fast flyer. Although he is faster than I could run, I expect the worst case scenario is that I would have to run to the dragon's hideaway, which may take 2-3 hours.

>"We heard it from a small group of scouts at first, but within minutes, we were swamped with scouts. But we got experience with that, so as soon as they came, they were gone. I'll tell you, it's nice having livestock that can think and receive payment for themselves."
"Is that how you see them, livestock?"
>"We don't say that word like we say it in context of goats or sheep. We know how valuable the drakes are to us."
"I find it strange, all the same, that this drake hero is grounded."
>"Don't ask us, you'd have to ask one of our warchiefs about it. And good luck with that."
"Regardless, this rumor spread amazingly quickly upon my return. I have to wonder who started it."
>"Again, I wouldn't know."
"And once I heard, I was immediately detained as usual! This is no place for me!"
"Speaking of which, I intend to have your eyes healed, Nezul."
"Eh?"
"Even if this town does not have healers, there must be one who would be willing to make a trip with recompensation, or even one that someone could fly you to after it is safe. Working, can I set aside funds to do so for him?"
>"Again, we're just tasked with taking care of Nezul, stuff like that is for the palace. Or Mosxa, one of our local nobles who has ownership of personal drakes as well as influence over this drake home."
"Very well. At least, tell me, under who's banner were these scouts working under?"
>"Well... that would be mostly Mosxa and the palace, really. Not sure why Mosxa got involved, probably trying to get in on that dragon hoard. I mean, no one's seen it, but it's a dragon, right? You ever find the hoard?"

There is a brief, but highly, highly noticeable glance at my backpack.

It's kind of a pity we didn't just take all the drakes and win them over too.

>>661913
You could try trusting experience. Or putting your faith in those you are supposed to respect.

(And then there's the fact that your eyes didn't prevent you from being caught off guard by this, they wouldn't have helped him much either).

Can they tell us anything about this rumor? It's origin, or specifics? If they had contact with the scouts, they heard might have heard the story before it was diluted in the retelling. What raised the alarm?

>>661925
Tell him it is well hidden. (though actually now I suspect the hoard is being stolen by the scouts)

...maybe you can pay the goblins to rent one of their animals and ride most of the way there? With no skeleton army you don't have to worry as much.

The alternative is outright stealing Nezul and bribing this attendant to stay quiet about it.

>There is a brief, but highly, highly noticeable glance at my backpack.
Wryly: No dragon's hoard would fit in a bag as small as this.

...where did we put the rest of the hoard? The leftovers? If it's all still there in the open, they're going to loot it like crazy. Good for the dragon (he can hide while they go gold crazy), but bad for the town (the massive inflation problem again, and one noble is going to get disproportionate power).

>fastest we can get there is 2-3 hr run.
Um. I don't suppose there's a ranged communication spell? (Although communication would be more Story's bailiwick than yours if there is).

Or I don't suppose you could distract the scouts before they got there? Would the drakes turn around if there was a lightshow behind them?

There probably is plenty of scheming going on but I think for most if it is just people trying to benefit from things.

Possibly a drake or two saw the dragon flying off and reported it. They seem rather excitable and enjoy flying so reports were scattered.

Everyone who took a drake out wanted to try and find the horde. When you came back without a giant pile of gold everyone who could went looking for it.

The nobles are all desperate for info and eventually your favor. And if they can't get it they will seek to play friends or discredit you.

Tell him there was indeed a huge horde. You have it stored on the astral plane. Tricky magic but when you do this sort of thing for a living you have to know how to keep things safe.

Then tell Nezul that you will send word once you find a healer and hopefully you will see him again soon. Mention something about being worried about the dragons family coming for revenge and then head out.

>>661925
Yeah, it's there. I looked it over for necromantic instuments for study. I was primarily looking for any phylacteries in case the dragon was about to go lich, but I didn't find anything. I didn't need the hoard, I'm already wealthy from several business ventures. I almost bought a bunch of drakes at once, remember? Don't eye my pack like a thief again, or I poke it out. Don't spread rumors like the rest of the bored fools around here either, there's enough chaos from the dragon one and I don't need kobold's trying to pick-pocket my ass and brigands attacking me from any dark alley.

If I am hassled, I'll hold YOU responsible.

And before you ask where the attitude came from, I don't like being looked at like a common thug or criminal. I took enough stares from Enlu today about the damn dragon and it's hurt my pride enough.

1/2 Kexluk 2015/08/13(Thu)15:32 No. 662059 ID: dd338c
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"It is well hidden. I see your glance, but rest assured that the dragon's hoard cannot be held in such a backpack."

While true, a great portion of it was.

Even if I lied, I would be at risk. If I said I hid it in an astral plane, I would be made out to be a liar should scouts be looting the hoard as I say it.

"But, do us both a favor and don't be one of those fools spreading rumors without confirmation."
>"Of course not."
"Nezul, I will send word once I find a healer, and hope to see you again soon."
"Likewise."

>Um. I don't suppose there's a ranged communication spell?
Unfortunately I found no such thing in the market, and do not have the means to set one up.

>Would the drakes turn around if there was a lightshow behind them?
Perhaps - but perhaps not all. From the sounds of things, many of the scouts are only going in the hopes of riches that put a life's honest work to look like a beggar's pocket change. I expect some would keep going even if they thought their town was in danger.

>Where is the rest of the hoard?
Hidden. Luzona was vague about his hiding place, it sounded as though it may be different from where we hid the hoard, but I am unsure. It was an excellent hiding spot, but I also did not expect an entire group of scouts to search like this.

2/2 Kexluk 2015/08/13(Thu)15:33 No. 662060 ID: dd338c
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I head to the goblin merchants next in hope for a steed.

>"Heyyyyyy Kexluk, how ya doing?" the goblin lady asks, looking at me like my rags were mythril embraced clothing of a king. "I hear you fought a dragon?"
".... yes, you sold me a headband to prevent fire to do so."
>"Right, right. Sorry, there. You got it still?"
"Yes. Here you are."
>"Annnnnnd okay then, I guess I could give you your 29 gold, but you sure you don't need your headband back?"
"I am certain, thank you."
>"Yeah okay, but if it's just pocket change to you, then -
"I am a paladin who does not seek to have great treasure, but I am not running donations, either. Here is your headband."
>"Okay okay! Here's the gold. Now don't be a stranger and look around, we got all kinds of shit."
"Do you have a steed I could borrow?"
>"Son of a fucking bitch you just missed the crowd! We had a couple decent animals, but some scales offered us a premium to rent 'em. I mean, we still got ol' Warty, but shit, the guy's made for endurance, not.... yeah, actually, you were wanting to go to the dragon, right? Sure you could run, or you could save your energy. Warty's not too fast, but he'll get you there! How about, say, 30 gold?"
"How much did the scouts earlier pay?"
>"An appropriate amount considering that back then, I still had a stock of animals."
"And that would be how much?"
>"Less, I admit."
"Never you mind, I apologize for being pointed."

http://strawpoll.me/5204786
Option 1 & 2 will be tallied together as a vote to go take the slow way to the dragon.

>>662060
...yeah, they don't need that many scouts. They're just trying to find whatever portion of the hoard you didn't take with you. The rumor was spread to cover the scouting efforts. Fucking greedy assholes.

You ran for like an entire day before. 2 hours is nothing. Do it the fast way. ...actually, ask if she has any other magic items that would aid in traveling quickly. Speed potions, enchanted gear, anything. Time is of the essence.

Also ask if she knows of any skilled healers in town- anyone that could heal wounds like those on Nezul.

Looks like there is gold fever in the air.

Mention that the idiots are looking for the horde but you want to make sure that there is no truth to the rumors. Incase other dragons are moving in or lich antics.

So the dragon hid his 134k somewhere but did not tell you so its not your problem if it gets stolen. Only time will tell if its hidden well enough.

How much of your half is left in whatever lake you found? That part is the stuff you want brought back safe. If you happen to run into the dragons share you can safeguard it for him.

I would take a risk and leave all but your personal share of the gold you have on hand with Lady Enlu for safekeeping. Will weigh you down if you take it with you and she is at least somewhat trustworthy.

>Hidden
Maybe we should trust a greedy coward to be good at keeping himself and his money out of sight?

The only real problem is he doesn't have any warning they're coming.

Chapter 8 Part 1 END Kexluk 2015/08/13(Thu)17:00 No. 662092 ID: dd338c
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>How much of your half is left in whatever lake you found? That part is the stuff you want brought back safe.
My half? It is with me. Inside of my backpack. I took the condensed portion - the platinum and gold coins - instead of the room occupying silver and gems. It was only possible by means of these strong backpacks, which seemed to be intended to hold such grandiose weights.

To run to Luzona would be tiring - but I can expend more magic to boost myself. Considering that I do not expect to fight any formidable foes upon my arrival, this is acceptable.

"Time is of the essence. I do not need endurance, I need speed. Do you have anything of that sort?"
>"Hell yeah I do - was gonna sell you that next. This boost'll give your legs springs for a good 5 minutes. I got enough of 'em for 30."
"How much?"
>"Well, for a single one, I would ask - "

I have no time for this. I pull my hand up into a backpack sleeve, grab a clump, and slam it down onto the backpack. I do not care who sees it.

"Is this enough?"
>"Holy fuck now we're talking yes that's enough take all these."
"Thank you."

When I return to town, I will have to keep Detect Life on at all times to sense anyone getting too close to me.

But for now, I must run.