Use the universal language of pointing.

Derpkins 2016/08/11(Thu)18:20 No. 741624 ID: 616bfd
File 147096482224.png - (75.24KB , 576x530 , Scene1 Quest.png )

Skorkov Park - Tellikan Country

I've been reading this sign for a while now. Supposedly, it's pointing me to a food vendor, but I don't really understand the Tellikan language. Nor any of the other three languages written on the sign.

Stupid job. Why did they have to send me of all people? I'm a terrible diplomat! So what if the Tellikans can't get along with the Raitekians? They hate my kind too! They feel our height makes us 'inferior'.

Derpkins 2016/08/11(Thu)18:23 No. 741626 ID: 616bfd
File 147096498099.png - (55.84KB , 364x391 , Scene2 Quest.png )

Anyway, before I do anything I should probably find someone that speaks a language that I can at least partially understand. I am quite fluent in several languages, thanks to you guys, the voices in my head, but I never thought it necessary to learn any of the Tellikan Dialects.

Unless you guys have any other suggestions, I have two options:

I can search among the people in the park, but the natives may not take too kindly to a Suskenian like me walking around speaking a language they don't know.

Or, I can search for the City Center, which shouldn't be too far from here, and likely to have more touristy-type people who won't be angry with me for being foreign.

>>741624
Why are you the diplomat if you can't do the local culture or local languages. Did whoever set this up want you to fail?

If you can't read the menu, you're going to need to talk to someone. Hopefully you can speak one of the local languages even if you can't read it?

Hit up the city center.

You hear voices in your head? Don't tell anyone or they'll think you're crazy!

Anyways, I think you should head over to the City Center.

>>741627
> Why are you the diplomat if you can't do the local culture or local languages. Did whoever set this up want you to fail?

This. Do you not speak either Tellikan or Raitekian? And you're expected to help the two get along?

How did you end up in this position? What information were you provided?

For the short-term goals of getting food and getting oriented, head towards the City Center with the tourists.

But you're going to need to learn the languages fairly quickly. Is there magic in your world, such as magical translation or language-learning? If not, then you'd better hope this is a long-term mission, and start immersing yourself in a role that'll allow you to learn one or more of the local languages.

Head for the city center.

Try the universal greeting, "ba weep gra na weep ninny bong". The universal greeting works every time.

Derpkins 2016/08/12(Fri)07:29 No. 741773 ID: 616bfd
File 147101215578.png - (57.78KB , 364x391 , To da city.png )

>>741628

This seems like the best course of action for now.

I'll answer some questions along the way.

Derpkins 2016/08/12(Fri)07:34 No. 741774 ID: 616bfd
File 147101245226.png - (49.98KB , 590x590 , Joe Anger 2.png )

>Do you not speak either Tellikan or Raitekian?

Technically, I only don't speak Tellikan. I had been sent to the Raitekian lands a while back to set up an embassy with them, so I can understand Raitekians if they speak slowly. This WOULD help, if there were any around, but I'm in the Tellikan Capital City. I never really had the chance to prepare for this mission in that way. I know a few important words (such as help), but that's about it.

>Why are you the diplomat if you can't do the local culture or local languages.

Well, the language is one thing, but learning about the culture and history is no problem. As a child, I was fascinated by the other species and cultures, so I have years of studying them under my belt. The language thing never really came around, since that would require more intense studying, something I couldn't necessarily do in my limited free time.

>Did whoever set this up want you to fail?

>How did you end up in this position?

Well, I have two theories...

The first one, is that my knowledge and passion for the Raitekian and Tellikan culture and history were noticed, and nobody else was quite as knowledgeable of the situation, making me the natural choice.

or...

My superiors learned of experiences I'd had in the past with Tellikans. I'd had a short relationship with a Tellikan named Karehem, but it didn't work out. Technically, relations with 'foreign entities' shouldn't have allowed me to get the job I have, on the grounds that I should be 'biased' for or against the Tellikans now. But, I knew that it wouldn't be a problem, so I may have left that part out when I applied for the job. Anyway, my superiors may have found out and are trying to tell me something, without actually telling me anything. They may be punishing me with a 'suicide mission', which if I fail, I will have reignited the flames of war between two entities who want peace badly enough to call others for help.

>What information were you provided?

I'm meant to attend the peace meetings and represent my country in deciding what would be best for them and what would be best for the world. Another species called Toboleans will be leading the meeting, and there will be eleven other representatives like me. The first meeting is when we all hear the situation, and try to decide how to best resolve the issues without favoring either party. If that doesn't work, there will be a second meeting in which the two parties will formulate what they think would be the best resolution, again without favoring either party, an the representatives will debate and compromise with them. This will continue until everyone is worn down enough to settle for pretty much anything, or negotiations fail and they return to a state of warfare.

It's not likely to actually proceed in exactly this manner though. Think more yelling, more arguing, and less getting anything accomplished.

Derpkins 2016/08/12(Fri)07:36 No. 741775 ID: 616bfd
File 147101258289.png - (69.40KB , 541x657 , Scene3 Quest.png )

...

I'd forgotten how big they were...

About the size difference... How exactly would that relationship work?

Derpkins 2016/08/12(Fri)09:41 No. 741795 ID: 616bfd
File 147102007606.png - (56.00KB , 590x590 , Joe Anger blush.png )

>>741787
>How exactly would that relationship work?

It didn't.

But I'm over it now.

Anyway, I can hear a crowd, so I must be getting close to the City Center.

Derpkins 2016/08/12(Fri)09:42 No. 741796 ID: 616bfd
File 147102013595.png - (125.25KB , 1086x803 , scene4 Quest Point.png )

City Center - Tellik

Wow, this place is huge! And filled with people with two legs!

There's a Giant Statue right in the middle of the plaza.

There are buildings all around, too.

There appears to be an Inn to the East, Market Stalls to the West, a building with a sign that looks like Food! to the North.

There's a path leading to the Docks also to the North.

There also seems to be a commotion nearby to the statue, with people gathered around in a circle yelling. I wonder what that could be about...

>>741795
I bet there was lots of lube involved so that way he could fit it in.~~~ :3

Anyways, you should go to the Market Stalls and hope they're selling a translation book of some kind.

By the way, what's your name and gender? And why did they put you, a crazy person that hears voices in their head, in charge of such an important task?

So the poor judgment and tendance to get yourself in weird situations aren't new. Good to know.
Say... Suppose you get to meet this ex-lover. How do you think they would react? Would that be beneficial or detrimental to your mission?

Try to avoid the crowd. Whatever is going on you probable won't be able to understand. Getting involve would only risk problems without any chance of benefit.
A translation book would be great for the later, but for now you need to find people you can communicate with. You can approach people on your path for the chance they speak a language you can understand, but even if they do don't expect much help from people busy going somewhere.
Go to the vendors. Since they deal with foreigners at least one of them probable know some dialect you are familiar with. Even if they aren't willing to help, they probable can indicate where you can find people who can.

>>741796
Find someone you can talk to and ask what the commotion is.

>Anyway, my superiors may have found out and are trying to tell me something, without actually telling me anything. They may be punishing me with a 'suicide mission', which if I fail, I will have reignited the flames of war between two entities
You... think you're working with people who are petty enough to risk a war to teach you a lesson? Over not disclosing one petty conflict of interest? Wow.

Derpkins 2016/08/12(Fri)21:11 No. 741920 ID: 616bfd
File 147106150265.png - (13.96KB , 197x255 , Joe indifferent.png )

>>741903

You'd be surprised with how callous and vindictive the important people are. Plus, it's war in a faraway land involving unfamiliar and different people. They probably don't care. They haven't really given me many reason to think otherwise, the only reason I'm here, is basically pressure from other more influential countries.

Then again, I never said I knew for sure that they'd done it for this reason, or if they even know at all. There could be plenty of other reasons.

Derpkins 2016/08/13(Sat)11:49 No. 741986 ID: 616bfd
File 147111415657.png - (130.42KB , 1098x875 , scene5 town.png )

>And why did they put you, a crazy person that hears voices in their head, in charge of such an important task?

We all have voices in our head, it's part of the Suskenian charm. I don't know where you got the idea that I as crazy.

>you should go to the Market Stalls and hope they're selling a translation book of some kind.

>Find someone you can talk to and ask what the commotion is.

A brilliant idea! There's likely to be a food vendor in the market too.

Derpkins 2016/08/13(Sat)11:50 No. 741987 ID: 616bfd
File 147111421575.png - (88.78KB , 532x632 , Scene5 Quest.png )

Of course the shops are all run by tall people. I ought to use my most fluent language first.

"Excuse me, do you speak this language?"

The vendor looks surprised.

"I do, but, who said that?"

"I'm down here sir."

Have I mentioned yet how much I dislike being short?

Derpkins 2016/08/13(Sat)11:52 No. 741988 ID: 616bfd
File 147111433525.png - (113.79KB , 658x654 , scene5 b.png )

"Oh, there you are! How can I help you?"

"I was wondering if you could tell me what that commotion over there was about."

"Oh that? I don't really know exactly, but it's probably a fight. We get a lot of that around here, and all the different beings that come here don't really help. No offense."

"Can I help you with anything else?"

"Do you have any books on the Tellikan languages and dialects? I don't speak a word of it and it would really help me out."

"I'm afraid I don't. But, the vendor over there has some books, she may have one on languages."

[i]Now what? Should I stay and see what this vendor has, or should I leave now?

My immediate priorities are:
The translation books.
Getting something to eat.

Ask them if they know of any restaurants where the staff might speak the right language. Then check out the book vendor and see if there is anything helpful.

>>741988
This vendor was nice enough to help you out and direct you; you should at least ask what they sell. (And their name, for that matter.)

Then ask them where they'd recommend for good food. Somewhere that they would enjoy, not necessarily somewhere touristy.

A question asked earlier:
> Is there magic in your world, such as magical translation or language-learning?

If so, you might want to seek that out as a faster solution. If not, head over to the bookseller and look for books on the local language.

I feel like a diplomat should consider breaking up a fight like that... but can we? I mean with the language barrier... If can break up the fight you might make a friend, which would be very useful.

Hey! You didn't answer my questions!

What is your name and are you a boy or a girl?

>>742005
>Then ask them where they'd recommend for good food. Somewhere that they would enjoy, not necessarily somewhere touristy.
We should also ask for a place that doesn't have a language barrier.

Derpkins 2016/08/17(Wed)08:22 No. 742875 ID: 616bfd
File 147144737636.png - (10.44KB , 199x207 , joe uncomfortable.png )

>Hey! You didn't answer my questions!

>What is your name and are you a boy or a girl?

Listen, I wasn't IGNORING you. My name is Jaa, but I just... don't feel comfortable talking about the other part, okay?


Author Note: Sorry about not updating for the past few days, I'm moving into a new dorm this weekend, and I don't have lots of time to work on this. When I get all settled, updates should be regular about once every other day.

Derpkins 2016/08/17(Wed)10:35 No. 742884 ID: 616bfd
File 147145530156.png - (13.96KB , 197x255 , Joe indifferent.png )

>I feel like a diplomat should consider breaking up a fight like that... but can we? I mean with the language barrier... If can break up the fight you might make a friend, which would be very useful.

You make a very good point. The problem is, I don't know if we can efficiently translate on our own, even with a translating book. Not to mention...

> Is there magic in your world, such as magical translation or language-learning?

...unfortunately there is no magic here.

Derpkins 2016/08/17(Wed)10:35 No. 742885 ID: 616bfd
File 147145534312.png - (114.64KB , 663x677 , Scene6 a.png )

>This vendor was nice enough to help you out and direct you; you should at least ask what they sell. (And their name, for that matter.)

"What's your name, sir? And what are you selling?"

"I am Lyulya, at your service. I supply fresh fish and produce, fished in the sea over there, and grown from my farm. I also prepare street food for tourists."

Wow. Convenient.

Derpkins 2016/08/17(Wed)10:35 No. 742886 ID: 616bfd
File 147145535863.png - (109.72KB , 885x885 , scene6 b.png )

"Here's a list of the veggies I grow on the farm, and their prices."

There are lots of items on the list, but since I don't eat fish because I'm an herbivore, the items on list that are appealing to me are a Plain Salad or a Salad with Radishes. The plain salad is 128C and the salad with radishes is 197C. I'm carrying 1,152C with me right now.

>>742886
I'd say go with the plain salad for now until we're sure about living expenses here and make a proper budget to ensure you don't go broke.

>>742886
Let's go with plain salad.

>>742875
What? All you have to do is check your pants for boy parts or girl parts. Unless.....do you have both boy and girl parts? Or do you not have either?

>>742958
Filenames call them Joe, they call themselves Jaa, so I'm guessing this is a transgender thing.

>>742886
Do those prices seem vaguely reasonable? How much would the same salad have cost back home?

If the price seems completely ridiculous, skip it for a bit and check out a few other options before deciding. If the price seems reasonable or only slightly high, go ahead and pick up the plain salad. If the price seems particularly low...then you brought far too little money.

Is that all the money you have, or just what you happen to have on you right now? Do you have access to additional funds? (Are there banks?) Are those your personal funds, or did your employers supply them?

Author Update Derpkins 2016/08/20(Sat)15:31 No. 743485 ID: 339cf2
File 147173229805.jpg - (227.42KB , 650x488 , broken_laptop.jpg )

Sorry for not being a Quest Update.

You know how I said I would get back to doing this? Well, my computer broke, and I have to get a new one. Fortunately, I got a good deal from Best Buy, and if everything goes as planned, I should have it by the 24th of this month!

Until then, sorry I'll be down for a little while.

(The image is not my computer, though damages are of a similar caliber)

Okidoke, my new computer has been delivered! I just need to get it all set up, and get all the software and whatnot on.

Expect a new update by Friday!

WE'RE BACK ((Also, animated)) Derpkins 2016/08/25(Thu)11:38 No. 744327 ID: 339cf2
File 147215032102.gif - (37.15KB , 347x295 , Plain Salad.gif )

>Let's go with plain salad.

"Here's 128C, for the Plain Salad, please."

I hand him the money.

"Thank you, and here is your salad!" He says, handing me the salad.

Derpkins 2016/08/25(Thu)11:38 No. 744328 ID: 339cf2
File 147215033044.png - (33.64KB , 288x392 , salad get!.png )

[i]Okay, now that we have some Breakfast, I ought to go the the Book Shop.

Derpkins 2016/08/25(Thu)11:39 No. 744329 ID: 339cf2
File 147215036752.png - (144.23KB , 851x852 , Scene 8.png )

Wait, the book lady is a Raitekian? She must get a lot of hate from the locals due to the wars. I suppose it's a good thing I'm here.

"Good morning, ma'am." I say in my best, most polite Common Raitekian.

"Oh my, I haven't heard words like that in a while..." She says, surprised. "How can I help you?"

How can she help us?

Ask for help with your translation issues.

I wonder if you can outright hire a translator and bill it as job expenses? You are compensated for those right?

is it just me or does it look like there are bags under her eyes? Hope she's doing alright.

Also ask her whats been going on around town lately, never hurts to find out whats going on.

>>744329
Ask if she's got a translation book that can help you with the language barrier.

And is it just me or is her underwear sticking out of the back of her pants? Is she aware of that? Maybe you should tell her before someone else notices.

Also, her eyes make her look like she's been crying, ask her if she's feeling ok.

Derpkins 2016/08/25(Thu)19:38 No. 744437 ID: 339cf2
File 147217912181.png - (34.83KB , 515x310 , scene9.png )

>is it just me or is her underwear sticking out of the back of her pants?

Well, technically yes. That is called a tail cover, some Raitekians and Tellikans wear them because they believe that they're susceptible to 'Negativity Attack' or something, and that general area is pretty vulnerable. It's an old religious tradition, but most don't wear them anymore, due to the high temperatures around here. Anyway, it's not really about 'decency', and not something to worry about.

>I wonder if you can outright hire a translator and bill it as job expenses? You are compensated for those right?

I might be able to find and hire a personal translator, though it would be on my own budget. I don't get a translator during personal time (ie right now), only during the conference and meetings with other representatives/officials/etc.

>is it just me or does it look like there are bags under her eyes?

She does look a bit tired, I ought to ask how she's doing.

"Are you doing okay? You have bags underneath your eyes."

"Oh, don't you worry about me. I'm a just little tired, that's all. The days are longer here than where I come from, so I can't get as much sleep."

>Ask if she's got a translation book that can help you with the language barrier.

"Do you happen to have a book relating to the Tellikan languages, specifically translating to and from another language?"

"I'm sorry, I'm afraid I don't. I have books in Common Raitekian and Skuvarsh, though, if you're interested."

I don't think I need one. Most of her books appear to be on the Raitekian and Tellikan spiritual beliefs, which are horribly outdated.

>Also ask her whats been going on around town lately,

"Do you know of anything going on around here?"

"Not very much. There's the market that you're in, at the moment. In a couple days we'll be having a sacrificing ceremony, in order to bring good luck to the peacekeepers. You should come, it'll be fun!"

Derpkins 2016/08/25(Thu)19:38 No. 744438 ID: 339cf2
File 147217913018.png - (29.58KB , 469x358 , oh.png )

>sacrificing ceremony

Wait...what?

Derpkins 2016/08/25(Thu)19:38 No. 744439 ID: 339cf2
File 147217913883.png - (28.73KB , 564x233 , scen9b.png )

She continues speaking, like she didn't just talk about killing someone for peace.

"Speaking of which, you're the Suskenian representative, right? I want to give you this."

She hands me her necklace. It's purple, and seems to almost glow.

"I can't help you find your translating book," She continues "but take this at least. It'll help you understand potentially confusing situations, which may also help you understand the locals a bit better."

"O-oh. Ok, thanks?"

That was kind of strange. Sacrifice? She said it so casually, and then just gave me her necklace, for free. I've always thought Raitekians were a bit strange, but this is my first major encounter with one in the field... I wonder if they're all like this...

>>744439
Sacrificing doesn't necessarily mean killing a person. It could mean giving up something, or killing a sacrificial animal.

Ask why the necklace will help. Um, is it magic or what?

The way you explained the tail cover makes it sound like it's supposed to protect against getting raped. Although, I'm pretty sure you didn't mean to explain it that way.

Accept her gift to you and say thank you. Try using it now, because this whole sacrifice thing sounds like a potentially confusing situation you need some help to understand.

You know the ceremony could mean sacrificing something other then people. It could be something as simple as giving away something the individual owns to someone else to build karma or something like that. If you truly want to know more as the shop keep here about it and maybe a name since she did just give you a free neckless. Maybe also buy a book just to be kind, not one of the spiritual books but maybe just a book to read in your free time for pleasure.

Derpkins 2016/08/26(Fri)10:35 No. 744545 ID: 339cf2
File 147223291561.png - (20.62KB , 302x352 , Tori Laughing.png )

>The way you explained the tail cover makes it sound like it's supposed to protect against getting raped. Although, I'm pretty sure you didn't mean to explain it that way.

It was not meant to be explained this way. The so called 'Negativity Attack' could mean several things, though nothing physical. Most often, they believe that being around a negative person (Someone who's angry, pessimistic, etc.) will make you susceptible to sort of 'adopt' their negativity, worsening your own life experience. The Attack is when someone is directly trying to make your life worse. Like my boss.

Not to mention a rapist could easily remove one if he or she wanted to.

>Sacrificing doesn't necessarily mean killing a person. It could mean giving up something, or killing a sacrificial animal.

>You know the ceremony could mean sacrificing something other then people. It could be something as simple as giving away something the individual owns to someone else to build karma or something like that.

That's a good point. I'm lucky I have you guys to help me out, otherwise I'd be done for!

"This sacrifice thing. You don't sacrifice people, do you?"

She laughs at me!

"No no, it's not that kind of sacrifice. We bring something dear to us, or of great value, and cast it into a large bonfire. But no living beings!"

That clarifies it a bit.

Derpkins 2016/08/26(Fri)10:39 No. 744547 ID: 339cf2
File 147223317927.png - (18.74KB , 270x267 , Necklace Take.png )

>Accept her gift to you and say thank you.

"Thank you very much for this."

"You're welcome! I was going to bring it to the ceremony, but it wants to go with you. They have a way of letting you know they want to go."

>Um, is it magic or what?

"So, what does it actually do?"

"It clears away any distractions, and negative energies, and focuses on what's important. It'll clarify things if you're having trouble understanding what someone means."

"Like, magic?"

"Yes! Very similar to magic."

This sounds like baloney... But I still appreciate the gift.

Derpkins 2016/08/26(Fri)10:39 No. 744548 ID: 339cf2
File 147223318594.png - (35.82KB , 315x294 , Book Tellikan History.png )

>If you truly want to know more as the shop keep here about it and maybe a name since she did just give you a free neckless. Maybe also buy a book just to be kind, not one of the spiritual books but maybe just a book to read in your free time for pleasure.

"Excuse me, what's your name?"

"My name is Toōravël. But, the locals just call me Tori, since it's easier to say in their accent."

I ought to look for a book that may be intersting.

This book looks interesting. It's written in Common Raitekian, so I'll be able to read it. It's titled, "Tellikans, the history and Traditions" This could be useful in the future.

I have 1,024C left over from the Salad for today. The book will cost me 320C. A bit expensive, but not too bad for a book of it's size.

well I guess we should probably try and find a hotel or something before it get's to late then try and figure out how we're going to get past the language barrier and do the job we were sent here to do.

That looks like a good book. Go ahead and buy it.

The necklace wanted to go with you? It let Tori know it wanted to go with you? Does that necklace have voices in it or something?

I just now noticed she's not wearing a shirt. I'm guessing that doesn't count as public indecency for her.....maybe? I wonder if she's cold from not wearing a shirt?

Derpkins 2016/08/28(Sun)15:36 No. 744932 ID: 339cf2
File 147242376828.png - (46.72KB , 589x318 , talking necklace.png )

>Does that necklace have voices in it or something?

I don't know. I'll check.

"...Hello?"

The necklace remains silent.

I don't know what I expected.

> I wonder if she's cold from not wearing a shirt?

Probably not. This part of the world is pretty hot, the city we're actually in was built in out of the middle of the Desert, so shirtlessness is sometimes required to stay at a reasonable temperature.

Derpkins 2016/08/28(Sun)15:36 No. 744933 ID: 339cf2
File 147242377877.png - (67.82KB , 594x714 , scene 10 a.png )

>That looks like a good book. Go ahead and buy it.

Agreed. And besides, I never got the chance to do any serious research into the Tellikans' beliefs. This will be a good chance to learn more in depth.

"I'd like to buy this one please. Here's 320C."

"Thank you, dear. That's a good one, helped me get to where I am. Without, I don't know if the Tellnikandi would ever let me around! I appreciate what you and the other nations are doing for us, so very selfless. Make sure you're careful though, some are going to the conference for selfish reasons, that'll only benefit them. Don't be one of them, ok?"

"Uh, ok."

She's obviously very concerned about the peace conference, and rightly so. If there's successful peace, it'll pave the way for Tellikans and Raitekians to integrate with each other.

Derpkins 2016/08/28(Sun)15:36 No. 744934 ID: 339cf2
File 147242378549.png - (134.20KB , 1086x803 , Scene 10.png )

>well I guess we should probably try and find a hotel or something before it get's to late

Good idea. I think I saw one earlier, when I was on the way here.

I'm about to reach the hotel, and I'm passing by the mob of people--

Derpkins 2016/08/28(Sun)15:36 No. 744935 ID: 339cf2
File 147242379454.png - (69.51KB , 630x727 , Scene 10_5.png )

Whoa! Someone just grabbed my shirt!

"Äitlava! Tcho Sovsaku nēn i'es! Tchōu nit trugar'es, Riisteluk kej Telliuk namtę keorës!"

What? I hardly understood any of that. Something about the Tellikans and Raitekians?

well he doesn't look pissed so there's that.

Uh, start speaking languages until you hit one that he can hopeful understand... failing that try using hand jesters until we can figure out what he wants.

He doesn't look angry, and that is somehow worst. In what situation would be acceptable to lift a stranger by their clothing in the middle of the street? This person either know your role as ambassador or is making assumptions based on your last interaction. So he is either threatening you for seeking peace or is threatening you for been a spy.
You need to convey to him that he need to put you down, you don't understand him and the food vendor can translate if necessary. If he think you are a spy it's probable best to keep him away from that Raitekian lady.

Hmmm..... Well if you talking to the necklace doesn't work, then I guess we can give it a try.

*ahem*
Excuse me? Necklace? You can help with understanding potentially confusing situations, right? Well, with the language barrier and suddenly getting picked up off the ground by a stranger, Jaa could really use your help right about now! Please?

>>744935
> Uh, start speaking languages until you hit one that he can hopeful understand... failing that try using hand jesters until we can figure out what he wants.

This. And hold the necklace in your hand while attempting languages.

Let's avoid jumping to any conclusions. They seem in a hurry, looking for help possibly, so don't act too calm when speaking a language they can't understand. That'd just worry them more.
Try to convey somehow that you can't speak their language, still, but we don't necessarily have to rule out the idea that they can speak other languages.

Derpkins 2016/08/30(Tue)19:42 No. 745374 ID: 339cf2
File 147261137466.png - (50.24KB , 362x612 , scene 11 b.png )

>You need to convey to him that he need to put you down

>try using hand jesters

>And hold the necklace in your hand while attempting languages

>Uh, start speaking languages until you hit one that he can hopeful understand

I try to convey the fact that I can't breathe using my hand, while I look for the necklace with the other. Embarrassed, he quickly puts me down and, apologizes.

"Kiēlō… Täikova enteskao brog's, tiil. Täikova tchovï trug tchov!"

There are better ways of getting my attention...

Derpkins 2016/08/30(Tue)19:43 No. 745375 ID: 339cf2
File 147261140767.png - (25.28KB , 287x429 , scene 11c.png )

I hold out the necklace, hoping he understands its supposed meaning, and try to explain that I can't understand him.

"I'm sorry, but I don't understand you." I say in Raitekian, as that's the only other language I can think of that he may know.

Fortunately, it seems he understands. But he looks taken aback, uncomfortable.

"Do you speak this language?"

"...A little bit, a little." He says.

He speaks slowly, and heavily accented. He's clearly not fluent, which is already better than expected of someone speaking the language of 'The Enemy'.

Derpkins 2016/08/30(Tue)19:43 No. 745376 ID: 339cf2
File 147261142194.png - (17.58KB , 232x398 , Kori Explain.png )

"What did you need my help with?"

He looks around uncomfortably, and finally says
"Sister of mine, fighting there! You fighting ender, you stop them! They hurt them!"

Ok, from his limited use of the language, I've gathered that he belongs to the big fight over by the Hotel. He seems concerned about his sister(?) who is in the middle of it, and wants me to intervene. But how could I do that, they're like, four times my size.

"You say like Riistelui, in this speak. You say them stop!"

He takes my arm, and begins to pull me to the fight. Should I let him, and try to intervene? I don't know if I'll actually be able to get in there, but I may be able to talk them down.

>>745376
Well if the crowd is made of people bigger than you, can't you just weave between their legs to get to the middle?

Ask his sister's name, and who the aggressor is, maybe what the fight is about.

>>745376
>Riistelui

Quickly ask him what this means. He was taken about by us speaking Raitekian; maybe speaking it authoritatively to them might help us bluff our way to stopping the fight?

might as well see the fight. I mean we're going to need an idea of what is actually going on and seeing things would help. Then once we do that we can decide what to do next.

Derpkins 2016/08/31(Wed)15:34 No. 745480 ID: 339cf2
File 147268283956.png - (70.70KB , 803x785 , scene 12 a.png )

> >Riistelui
>
>Quickly ask him what this means.

No need, I already know. In different languages, we call each other different things. This is what we all call each other.

The rows are the languages associated with that race, and the columns are what the races are called in the different language.

Derpkins 2016/08/31(Wed)15:34 No. 745481 ID: 339cf2
File 147268285602.png - (57.43KB , 574x668 , scene 12 b.png )

>Well if the crowd is made of people bigger than you, can't you just weave between their legs to get to the middle?

I was more worried about what would happen if I had to get physically involved. As much as I like to think I'm 'all that', I don't think I'd be able to hold my own against one of them, let alone two.

Derpkins 2016/08/31(Wed)15:34 No. 745482 ID: 339cf2
File 147268286698.png - (37.67KB , 447x415 , scene 12 c.png )

>Ask his sister's name, and who the aggressor is, maybe what the fight is about.

"So, what happened? What's this fight all about?"

He picks me up and places me on his shoulders, so we can move quicker and hear each other better.

"Sister of mine, she is Eliënqi. She get angry with Riistelu who saying bad about Telmangkh. She say stop, Riistelu not stop, and they fight. Riistelu very strong, Eliri not very strong. You make them stop."

It appears as though there was a Raitekian offending his sister, and she demanded he stop. He didn't stop, and so she tried beating him up, but it didn't go as planned. This guy says the Raitekian is much stronger than Eliri, and she isn't winning.

>He was taken about by us speaking Raitekian; maybe speaking it authoritatively to them might help us bluff our way to stopping the fight?

That's what I'm hoping. If that doesn't work, I may be able to convince them that peace is in their best interests, considering my future plans of bringing peace to the nations.

we could try and get him to back off by pointing out that by fighting a suskenian in a suskenian town might come back in bite him in the ass.

Derpkins 2016/09/01(Thu)12:35 No. 745543 ID: 339cf2
File 147275855878.png - (44.04KB , 348x326 , scene 13a.png )

>>745483

>suskenian

I'm going to assume you meant Tellikan, as I'm a Suskenian, and we're in a Tellikan town?

Anyway, that could be a good point, but it looks like the Tellikans that are gathered are just watching, not intervening. They're also yelling. I don't understand what their saying, but it doesn't sound like stop. More like encouragement. Public fighting is one of the most popular forms of entertainment, they may think it's a type of competition for their entertainment. I don't know...

Our friend brings us to the front of the mob, and yells out to the fighters in Tellikan.

"Läite! Tomap' nùove gleikdt'e!"

Derpkins 2016/09/01(Thu)12:36 No. 745544 ID: 339cf2
File 147275859848.png - (65.93KB , 369x466 , scene 13b.png )

The Raitekian doesn't even look at him, but yells back in Raitekian:

"Why don't you shut up, and make me!"

Our Tellikan friend puts me back on the ground and looks at me.

"Make them stop!"

What should I say to get them to stop fighting?

this place have law enforcement? Hopefully pointing that out might get him to stop if he's afraid their might be legal action or something against his ass... kinda shooting in the dark here as I don't know local law or customs and we don't really have the strength or friends to go in there and physically separate the two of them.

>I'm going to assume you meant Tellikan
... yes, yes I did I'm just an idiot who can never get names right.

>>745544
>"Why don't you shut up, and make me!"
Oh, thank goodness! One of them speaks a language you can speak, that makes this so much easier!

>"Make them stop!"
He doesn't care who wins this fight, he only wants it to stop.

So, first, we should explain what our job is because it's your job to negotiate. Then tell him to stop choking her and ask who started it and what was said. If it was a minor insult, like about his looks or about his smell, tell him it's not worth starting another war over. If it was a big insult, like about his culture or about his religion, well.....that'll make this much harder. Basically, what you're trying to do here is to have everyone still alive at the end of the conversation.

Stop when something works:
1. Ascertain the situation: "Why are you fighting?"
2. Try to reason: "Is it really worth fighting?", "This problem can be solved peacefully."
3. Appeal to their awareness: "You are making a scene in the middle of the marked!", "Look how far this got."
4. Propose alternatives: "Wouldn't your arguments be more valid in a proper debate?", "Why don't you prove who is better in a sportive competition?"
5. Do something stupid: Time to put yourself in danger by putting yourself between two aggressive giants!

>>745544
Tell him he's made his point. He's already won. He should stop before he breaks anything.

Derpkins 2016/09/03(Sat)19:52 No. 745948 ID: 616bfd
File 147295754221.png - (60.99KB , 574x548 , scene 14a.png )

>this place have law enforcement? Hopefully pointing that out might get him to stop if he's afraid their might be legal action or something against his ass

Unfortunately, this part of the world hasn't exactly been known to have the most impressive legal system... The attacker, despite being Raitekian in a clearly anti-Raitekian land, is unlikely to have much to fear. Besides maybe vigilantes, but those guys have mostly gone to the front lines as soldiers.

>Tell him he's made his point. He's already won. He should stop before he breaks anything.

Right. Perhaps I could use logic to get her to come to her senses.

I take a deep breath, and walk up to the fight. In my most confident, intimidating, and professional voice, I say:

"I think that's quite enough."

The Raitekian looks startled, and quickly looks at me, likely curious as to who has the audacity to order her around like that.

Before coming to the realization that it's international politics telling her to stop. Her grip around Eliri loosens, and she manages to escape, falling to the ground coughing.

"Now, maybe we can talk about this?" I say.

But the Raitekian doesn't answer, she simply scans the surroundings as if only just noticing the massive mob.

Derpkins 2016/09/03(Sat)19:52 No. 745949 ID: 616bfd
File 147295756004.png - (49.83KB , 385x518 , scene 14b.png )

She quickly gets up, mumbling to herself.

"No, this is very bad. Very bad..." She keeps repeating.

"Listen, we can talk. It doesn't have to be bad."

"No!" She says quickly. "I need to go!"

She quickly runs off, parting the audience who is now slowly dispersing.

"Wait!" I begin, but GOOD GRIEF is she fast. She's out of sight in almost seconds.

Well, so much for diplomacy. But the important thing is that she let Eliri go, with minimal death...

Derpkins 2016/09/03(Sat)19:52 No. 745950 ID: 616bfd
File 147295757133.png - (29.10KB , 361x337 , scene 14c.png )

"Jekertoi naijakem!" Eliri says, "Nùo ëfes kirn pair'es fē klokstuk forn'eš." Her brother quickly rushes over, and they begin talking to each other.

I don't really know what to make of this... I'll have to see if I can find that Raitekian again, and I think I know how...

Derpkins 2016/09/03(Sat)19:53 No. 745951 ID: 616bfd
File 147295758187.png - (2.53KB , 32x46 , scene 14d.png )

I recognized her shirt, it's the uniform that all the employees in the Katreš Fishing and Trading company. They're pretty much the largest exporter of fish and marine goods worldwide, and they stop by in the Tellikan Countries every once in a while. I'll see if I can figure out where they're staying, and see what's going on.

"Hey, Sovsaku." Eliri calls through my train of thought. "Thank you, I should've known better than to pick a fight. I just get really hot-headed sometimes...

Anyway, I think you may have just saved my life. If you need anything, you should come visit me in the Yellow District. It's written 'Tuk Ameer' on the road signs."

"You're welcome, that's what I'm here to do I suppose."

Eliri and her brother smile and walk off.

I think the excitement is over for the moment. I need to get to that hotel so I have somewhere to stay.

Derpkins 2016/09/03(Sat)19:53 No. 745952 ID: 616bfd
File 147295760399.png - (54.45KB , 427x372 , Chapter 1 End.png )

End Chapter 1

Chapter 2 Derpkins 2016/09/05(Mon)18:59 No. 746401 ID: 339cf2
File 147312717997.png - (289.02KB , 713x892 , ch2 scene 1a.png )

Wow. It's very dark here.

And I'm really angry.

Derpkins 2016/09/05(Mon)19:00 No. 746402 ID: 339cf2
File 147312720204.png - (113.41KB , 399x466 , ch2 scene 2b.png )

AND I CAN'T FOR THE LIFE OF ME REMEMBER WHY I'M SO FURIOUS.

WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME? WHY AM I THIS WAY?

You're mad because you were sent as a diplomat to a place where you don't understand the language.

You're mad because someone stole your clothes.

You're mad because it's really foggy and you can't see shit.

Am I anywhere close to why you're mad or should I keep guessing?

You may be asleep, dreaming, and the stress of it all may be catching up to you. While telling you to relax won't help, it may be best to settle down, think of calmer, more pleasant times.

Somebody STOLE YOUR SWEETROLL!

Derpkins 2016/09/05(Mon)21:05 No. 746481 ID: 339cf2
File 147313475796.png - (122.35KB , 400x559 , Ch2 scene 2a.png )

No. Someone's here. It's them!

Derpkins 2016/09/05(Mon)21:06 No. 746482 ID: 339cf2
File 147313476518.png - (173.08KB , 552x416 , ch2 scene 2b.png )

They set us up! They're the one's that made it like this!

They betrayed us!

«Almehi kum tua?»

Derpkins 2016/09/05(Mon)21:06 No. 746483 ID: 339cf2
File 147313477465.png - (176.13KB , 539x456 , Ch2 scene 2c.png )

«Dehi na Tsetsa tua, na Tsetsa maregoki ulo tita markol!»

Derpkins 2016/09/05(Mon)21:06 No. 746484 ID: 339cf2
File 147313477839.png - (184.72KB , 539x456 , Ch2 scene 2d.png )

«Dehi kvoch noh! Dehi ihi ovalh!»

Derpkins 2016/09/05(Mon)21:06 No. 746485 ID: 339cf2
File 147313478393.png - (270.53KB , 539x456 , Ch2 scene 2e.png )

«Dehi ihi tua...»

You're dreaming things that don't make sense! Wake up, Jaa!

>>746485
Is this a recovered memory of someone using mental magic against you?

I think I found out why you're angry, even while dreaming you're still not able to understand what people are saying. I think all of this is just your subconscious telling you that your boss is a dick.

Derpkins 2016/09/06(Tue)19:02 No. 746681 ID: 339cf2
File 147321374619.png - (25.37KB , 318x413 , Ch2 scene 3a.png )

>>746487
>You're dreaming things that don't make sense! Wake up, Jaa!


Whoa!

That was intense!

I don't think I've ever had a dream like that before...

Derpkins 2016/09/06(Tue)19:02 No. 746682 ID: 339cf2
File 147321375356.png - (23.09KB , 388x271 , Ch2 scene 3b.png )

>the stress of it all may be catching up to you.

That could be it. Yesterday was pretty stressful, what with landing myself in a country I don't understand and all.

Derpkins 2016/09/06(Tue)19:02 No. 746683 ID: 339cf2
File 147321376214.png - (17.36KB , 232x255 , Ch2 scene 3c.png )

I think it could also be from that book I got, I was reading it before sleeping. There's some interesting stuff in there, besides all the 'Spirituality' and 'Enrgies' and stuff. There's some nice actual history hidden around.

Derpkins 2016/09/06(Tue)19:02 No. 746684 ID: 339cf2
File 147321377725.png - (20.47KB , 349x296 , Ch2 scene 3d.png )

Also, I was thinking about that Raitekian from yesterday, the one who went berserk on Eliri. Something definitely feels weird about that whole encounter. I think I want to see if I can find her today.

Anyway, I need to get dressed.

Um, don't look...

>>746684
>Um, don't look...
What? Don't you know? We head voices are unable to not look. Which means we're always looking and there's nothing you or any of us can do about it. So you might as well just go ahead and get dressed.

>>746684
One question. Who are you talking to exactly?
Also maybe you should consider looking up the phrases you heard in your dream.

... We're your headvoices, how you know where we 'See', or that we don't already know what you look like from being with you is almost enough to give a massive strain.

We already saw you naked in your dream but sure why not, we'll just close our non existing eyes for a few minutes.

I, Uh, don't know how much control we have over that...

I've got it, do something really indecent and it'll be spoilered.

Derpkins 2016/09/07(Wed)17:44 No. 746924 ID: 339cf2
File 147329548802.png - (12.04KB , 250x281 , Ch2 scene 4a.png )

>>746699

>>746703

>>746736

>>746737

All right, I get it, good grief. Forget I said anything.

Anyway, I need to plan out my day. I think my main priority today is to find the Raitekian fisherman and ask about the situation that occurred yesterday. It's probably not the most important task on my mission, but something about it doesn't really sit right.

Derpkins 2016/09/07(Wed)17:45 No. 746926 ID: 339cf2
File 147329549942.png - (31.13KB , 378x406 , Ch2 scene 4b.png )

This is the symbol for the Fishing Company that I saw on the Raitekian's shirt. Finding them should be simple: They likely have a boat anchored at the docks with it branded on the side. We'll just need to find it, and someone there is likely to know where they're staying for the week.

Derpkins 2016/09/07(Wed)17:45 No. 746927 ID: 339cf2
File 147329550359.png - (56.33KB , 554x751 , Ch2 scene 4c.png )

Then we need only to ask about the one we saw yesterday. Here are the details that may help us identify her:

She has rather long and unkempt mane
She wears a purple necklace, nearly identical to mine
She's rather young

Most fishing vessels don't do well holding more than about 12 Raitekians, so this ought to narrow the criteria.

Derpkins 2016/09/07(Wed)17:45 No. 746928 ID: 339cf2
File 147329550888.png - (22.96KB , 213x387 , Ch2 scene 4d.png )

Or, I could see if Eliri knows anything more. We could visit, like she offered, but it would take a while to get there, as she's in a different District.

Derpkins 2016/09/07(Wed)17:45 No. 746929 ID: 339cf2
File 147329551370.png - (19.35KB , 210x322 , Ch2 scene 4e.png )

Well then, unless you guys can think of something else to do for today, should I see Eliri or the Raitekian?

>>746929
I think we want to talk to Eliri before we talk to the Raitekian.

We should hear her side of it, and find out who escalated the situation. (Did she attack him and then started losing, or did she just talk and he escalated to a fight?) We should also hear exactly what he said, both to understand this particular situation and to learn more about the tensions between the two species here.

Let's go see Eliri.

>Think of something else to do for today
Hold it right there! Just where do you think you're going? You simply can't start the day without eating the most important meal of the day first! Let's go get some breakfast! We must live up to the name of this quest! XD

let's talk to Eliri first and get her side of the story. Plus she might be able to give us some more details to help us narrow the search down even more. Plus she owes you so she's less likely to punch your face in if you say the wrong thing.

Derpkins 2016/09/08(Thu)14:35 No. 747078 ID: 339cf2
File 147337050522.png - (24.81KB , 230x411 , Ch2 scene 5a.png )

>>746940

>Hold it right there! Just where do you think you're going? You simply can't start the day without eating the most important meal of the day first! Let's go get some breakfast!

Of course! I was just planning out what I wanted to get accomplished today in the long run. I was thinking I'd go and see Lyulya again.

Speaking of which, I still only have 704C left over from the book yesterday, so I should probably find a bank somewhere, where I can access the funds allotted to those on abroad missions. I should probably also do that today.

Derpkins 2016/09/08(Thu)14:35 No. 747079 ID: 339cf2
File 147337050995.png - (599.71KB , 2552x2052 , Ch2 scene 5b.png )

I picked up a map of the city from the Hotel I'm staying in. The translator in the lobby spoke Suskenian (yay!) and was able to tell me which districts were what and where. Here's where I am in relation to my objectives for today

>>746932

>I think we want to talk to Eliri before we talk to the Raitekian.

>We should hear her side of it, and find out who escalated the situation.

Good idea. We may not want to investigate the Raitekian too quickly, lest she think we're trying to 'get' her or something silly like that.

In reality, I don't really have all that much authority, nor weight in the peace process. I'm only one of several representatives from many different places. Most people don't realize this, and assume I'm a person of importance, when in reality, my position is of relative insignificance.

Derpkins 2016/09/08(Thu)14:35 No. 747080 ID: 339cf2
File 147337051389.png - (510.59KB , 2552x2052 , Ch2 scene 5c.png )

Anyway, that was a tangent, lets get back to business. I'll need to head West to see Eliri, but the bank is also in the same general direction. So, I'll go see Eliri, we'll chat for a bit, and then I can head south to the bank, and grab my stuff.

Then, if there's time in the day left (Which there should be, I can't imagine the whole plan taking ALL day) I can figure out something to do for the rest of the day, before going home.

Derpkins 2016/09/08(Thu)14:35 No. 747081 ID: 339cf2
File 147337051730.png - (173.04KB , 1086x803 , Ch2 scene 5e.png )

Oh no... Lyulya doesn't appear to be awake yet, and his shop is empty. I suppose maybe it's earlier than I thought. I remember Tori saying something about longer daytimes, but I didn't think it was that different from my homeland. Oh well, I'll get going toward the Yellow District first, and then get breakfast on my way back.

Derpkins 2016/09/08(Thu)15:18 No. 747094 ID: 339cf2
File 147337312665.png - (11.61KB , 135x238 , Ch2 scene 5 and a half.png )

So, when we get there, what should we ask Eliri about? I know we want to know about the Raitekian, but I mean what questions should we ask? And should we discuss anything else?

well first see if she's ok cause she did look a little beat up the other day. Then ask what lead up to the fight and what they were fighting about in the first place... also other things to ask her is if she would know anyone that would be able to teach you the local language and where we can find a bank.

Well, of course you don't carry that much weight. Do you see how big everyone around you is? They're all significantly heavier than you! All the more reason not to let anyone step on you!

Actually, you're not going to walk all the way over there, right? Is there some kind of transportation service around here? Maybe one that let's little people like you get piggyback rides on the big guys, so that you don't accidentally get squished?

>>747081
NOOOOOO!!!!! Not again! :,-(

Hey, Jaa. When you get there and your stomach starts making hungry noises, if you're offered some food, please tell me you'll say, "Yes, thank you."

>>747100
All of this sounds good.

>>747078
You probably don't want to carry around large amounts of money. Is there a credit/debit system through banks, or do banks deal exclusively in cash and coin? If the latter, just pick up enough for a couple of days at a time at most.

>>747094
>>747100
> well first see if she's ok cause she did look a little beat up the other day. Then ask what lead up to the fight and what they were fighting about in the first place... also other things to ask her is if she would know anyone that would be able to teach you the local language

All of these. And see if you can learn more about the general situation and interspecies tensions. She'd have valuable "on the ground" information. Keep in mind that she'll probably have some bias and misinformation, but if her and the Raitekian provide conflicting information, I'd slightly favor her information, on the basis of seeming to be the one more in the right in that particular fight.

(In the interests of complete paranoia, it's theoretically possible that this situation was manufactured to affect your position as a diplomat. Not likely, but possible, and worth keeping in the back of your mind.)

>maps
So what do Toz and Tuk mean?

Also, that route doesn't seem like it makes much sense, unless you're trying to stick to major streets to stay out of trouble? (or for some other reason)

Derpkins 2016/09/09(Fri)21:45 No. 747217 ID: 616bfd
File 147348274143.png - (479.86KB , 2552x2052 , Ch2 scene 6a.png )

>that route doesn't seem like it makes much sense, unless you're trying to stick to major streets to stay out of trouble?

Yeah, I suppose not. 'Main roads' was my first idea, but I don't see why I can't take smaller roads. Here's the new route, slightly more direct.

>Actually, you're not going to walk all the way over there, right? Is there some kind of transportation service around here? Maybe one that let's little people like you get piggyback rides on the big guys, so that you don't accidentally get squished?

I... don't think so? I don't see why they would in a city in the part of the world overwhelmingly dominated by TALL people. Plus I'm not THAT small compared to them.

Also, I don't think there would be so many volunteers to be essentially a transport for tourists...

But really, it's not that far. It may take a few moments for me to get there, at most.

>>747100

These are good questions, especially the language one. If I could learn even a few phrases, it'll make my stay that much easier.

Derpkins 2016/09/09(Fri)21:45 No. 747218 ID: 616bfd
File 147348274884.png - (16.27KB , 184x270 , Ch2 scene 6b.png )

>So what do Toz and Tuk mean?

I dunno. It's probably some Tellikan words to classify or organize the different districts into different categories. That's what we do at home.

Derpkins 2016/09/09(Fri)21:45 No. 747219 ID: 616bfd
File 147348275345.png - (7.42KB , 168x184 , Ch2 scene 6c.png )

>(In the interests of complete paranoia, it's theoretically possible that this situation was manufactured to affect your position as a diplomat. Not likely, but possible, and worth keeping in the back of your mind.)

You mean like if Eliri and the Raitekian were hired in order to sabotage my mission? I don't know why that would ever happen, but it would explain a couple things. Like why her brother (Who's name I just realized I still don't know) came directly to me instead of trying to intervene. I doubt that Raitekian could hold off two Tellikans at once, she looked like she was struggling a bit just with Eliri.

I'll have to keep this in mind just in case...

Derpkins 2016/09/09(Fri)21:46 No. 747220 ID: 616bfd
File 147348276677.png - (45.97KB , 600x430 , Ch2 scene 6d.png )

Whoa.

This wasn't on the map...

I guess I do have to take the main bridge after all.

wonder what the hell happened here? Guess we can ask about this as well.

>>747220
Well, that's dramatic.

I don't suppose you can read that sign? Or even just tell if it says "Tuk Ameer" again.

>>747219
Probably not both of them, no. More one-sided, trying to get you inclined to favor one over the other.

But again, paranoia. Not a probable explanation, just a theoretically possible one.

>>747220
Another item to add to the list. Ask both Eliri and the Raitekian if they know why the bridge is out. Also a useful random topic of conversation.

>>747218
>>So what do Toz and Tuk mean?
>
>I dunno. It's probably some Tellikan words to classify or organize the different districts into different categories. That's what we do at home.

Hopefully a reasonable question to ask in polite conversation.

>>747079
>I'm only one of several representatives from many different places

Of the other representatives you know of, do you know if they have any likely prior biases?

>>746927
>She wears a purple necklace, nearly identical to mine

Any more details on that necklace you can share?

>>747220
Well, there's only one thing to do. Het a running start and jump the gap! XD

.....wait, stop! I was joking! Let's just take the main bridge.

Derpkins 2016/09/11(Sun)17:17 No. 747537 ID: 339cf2
File 147363946611.png - (34.70KB , 636x494 , Ch2 scene 7a.png )

>I don't suppose you can read that sign? Or even just tell if it says "Tuk Ameer" again.

Yes, I recognize these symbols. They do just say Tuk Ameer.

The 'Tuk Ameer' in 'English' on the sign is just me able to recognize what it says, it's not actually written there in my language

Derpkins 2016/09/11(Sun)17:17 No. 747538 ID: 339cf2
File 147363947659.png - (16.37KB , 253x358 , Ch2 scene 7b.png )

>Of the other representatives you know of, do you know if they have any likely prior biases?

Oh, for sure, and on both sides. Both the Raitekians and Tellikans have been in similar conflicts before with other races. For example, the Raitekians had an almost identical conflict with a few Mirkelosian tribes, but they were able to swiftly end the war in their favour.

And the Tellikans have control over some Marulieri land, which they are likely to want released in the peace deal.

All in all, I'm expecting the conference to be neither quick nor painless.

Derpkins 2016/09/11(Sun)17:18 No. 747539 ID: 339cf2
File 147363948121.png - (28.80KB , 377x250 , Ch2 scene 7c.png )

>Any more details on that necklace you can share?

Not really? I just saw it quickly before she ran off, but it appeared to be the same shape and colour as mine.

Derpkins 2016/09/11(Sun)17:18 No. 747540 ID: 339cf2
File 147363948530.png - (42.92KB , 625x400 , Ch2 scene 7d.png )

>Another item to add to the list. Ask both Eliri and the Raitekian if they know why the bridge is out. Also a useful random topic of conversation.

Alright, but now that I've arrived at the Yellow District, I've just noticed a fatal flaw in my plan.

I don't actually know which building Eliri is in.

>>747540
...
uh, ask around? someone is bound to know where to find here... assuming they can understand you.

>>747540
The yellow district doesn't seem that big on the map; perhaps a neighbor will know and can give us directions?

Derpkins 2016/09/12(Mon)15:23 No. 747759 ID: 339cf2
File 147371898360.png - (40.86KB , 812x576 , Ch2 scene 8a.png )

>uh, ask around? someone is bound to know where to find here... assuming they can understand you.

>The yellow district doesn't seem that big on the map; perhaps a neighbor will know and can give us directions?

I don't think it's a very good idea to go around knocking on random people's doors. Don't forget, it's still very early in the morning, most people are probably still sleeping.

Derpkins 2016/09/12(Mon)15:23 No. 747760 ID: 339cf2
File 147371898917.png - (68.07KB , 511x533 , Ch2 scene 8b.png )

"Čord'e, Sovsaku!"


good

grief

That scared me

Derpkins 2016/09/12(Mon)15:23 No. 747761 ID: 339cf2
File 147371899594.png - (12.60KB , 232x271 , Ch2 scene 8c.png )

Whoa, ok!

Armed guard! Wasn't expecting that!

What do I do?!

"Tchos kën letter praka'es i!"

I- I don't understand what he's saying! He looks angry!

You should run from the authorities as suspiciously as possible. Or not.
Just try to talk in different languages until you find one they understand or make it abundantly clear you don't speak his language, as you have been doing every time.

>>747763
This. Most fluent to least fluent.

>>747761
Maybe there's a curfew, and it's too early to be walking around?

If you have any papers that prove you're a diplomat it might be prudent to get them out. Just be sure to gesture to your satchel ahead of time, and make no sudden moves. Do not spook the guard.

Derpkins 2016/09/12(Mon)21:27 No. 747802 ID: 339cf2
File 147374083413.png - (17.02KB , 176x319 , Ch2 scene 9b.png )

>You should run from the authorities as suspiciously as possible.

Uh. Probably not the best idea.

>Just try to talk in different languages until you find one they understand or make it abundantly clear you don't speak his language, as you have been doing every time.

I try to communicate that I don't speak his language in all languages I know.

"Nui kaunn jë vårfan o lēr Tellnakondi."

The guard gives me a confused look.

"Ekí sokor öf nel Tellıkan?"

Ugh, I have one more language I can try. I hate this one...

Discouraged, I finally say.

"Sparki ku Tiela?"

The guard looks impatient, and yells:

"Čev tcho kën Alauna poker'es?"

This doesn't appear to be working.

>If you have any papers that prove you're a diplomat it might be prudent to get them out. Just be sure to gesture to your satchel ahead of time, and make no sudden moves. Do not spook the guard.

Right! My documentation! It's what allows me in the borders, as well as gives me certain privileges.

I motion to my bag, trying to get my point across that I have papers. I reach into my bag to get them.

Derpkins 2016/09/12(Mon)21:27 No. 747803 ID: 339cf2
File 147374085497.png - (81.69KB , 765x469 , Ch2 scene 9c.png )

The guard sees me open my bag, trying to pull something out, and immediately assumes offensive stance, pointing his giant Halberd toward me.

"Slåkten pērš, ĉord'e!"

Derpkins 2016/09/12(Mon)21:29 No. 747805 ID: 339cf2
File 147374099813.png - (75.01KB , 760x653 , Ch2 scene 9d.png )

"Paragiĉi, nùove elmat gleikdt'e!" Somebody else says.

It's Eliri! Wow, what coincidence!

"Eliri!" I say, "Tell him I'm not a robber or something!"

Derpkins 2016/09/12(Mon)21:30 No. 747806 ID: 339cf2
File 147374100279.png - (41.52KB , 501x386 , Ch2 scene 9e.png )

She approaches him, and they begin conversing. I think they're talking about me, because they're saying 'Sovsaku' which is the Tellikan word for Suskenian. Eventually the guard leaves, and Eliri comes toward me.

"What are you doing out here so early?" She asks me. "There's a curfew for non-residents."

Apparently you just wake earlier than the rest of the city.

>>747806
Yeah you weren't aware of that. Jeez your boss REALLY should've told you.

Run up to her and hug her leg, because that's the only thing a midget like you can reach, and then tell her, "Thank goodness you showed up when you did! I thought I was going to die!" Then tell her you're here because you were actually looking for her to ask about how and why what happened yesterday happened. And don't forget to ask her about the broken bridge.

>>747811
Remember >>741627
We've suspected for a long time we're supposed to fail. And not failing when you're supposed to is a great way to get on your superiors' shit-list, but generally being a fall guy is even worse.

Ok, so we're violating a law we didn't know about, that's bad. What does Eliri think we should do about it? I mean we're already here and apparently she talked the guard down so that's great, but if we're not supposed to be on the streets we should probably be somewhere else.

>>747822
We can stick with Eliri. I'm sure no one will mind if we're with her.

>>747802
> "Sparki ku Tiela?"

What language is that that you didn't want to have to resort to?

>>747806
Tell her that you didn't know that.

Ask her if she'd like to join you for some breakfast and conversation. And add another topic for that conversation: things you should probably know, starting with things that might get you hurt, killed, or imprisoned if you don't.

You should probably figure out what the Tellikan for "I don't speak Tellikan" is, because you're definitely going to need it.

Derpkins 2016/09/14(Wed)15:15 No. 747955 ID: 339cf2
File 147389132628.png - (23.29KB , 233x386 , Ch2 scene 10a.png )

>What language is that that you didn't want to have to resort to?

Ugh. Beštar.

Beštar is a dialect of a larger language group spoken by the Šeňkri, also known as the scum of the universe. The language is ugly and unsophisticated, and the Šeňkri who speak it are just the worst.

My home country, called Marikor, has the 'privilege' of control over some of their land in the South, in exchange for them having some of ours in the North. They take immense pleasure in disrespecting our government, and being disagreeable and unpleasant about anything we tried to do. Most of the their land under our control is rather undeveloped, because they refuse to accept any type of reform or renovation we try to make, then complain about our 'lack of concern' for their well-being, when they're really the one's doing it to themselves.

That's the main reason I hate it, is because of the people it came from. Otherwise, it's pretty easy to learn, and is required as part of primary education in Marikor.

Derpkins 2016/09/14(Wed)15:15 No. 747956 ID: 339cf2
File 147389133869.png - (50.06KB , 527x558 , Ch2 scene 10b.png )

Anyway, we should probably talk to Eliri now.

"What are you doing out here so early?" She asks me.

>Apparently you just wake earlier than the rest of the city.

"I guess it's just earlier than I thought. I was woken up by some weird dreams I was having."

"Hmm, strange." She says. "That's why I'm awake too. I wonder if there's something weird going on..."

"Maybe it was just a coincidence. We both had a stressful day yesterday, so maybe it's affecting our sleep."

"Maybe."

>Tell her that you didn't know that.

"I didn't know there was a curfew here. We don't have anything like that back home."

"Probably not, you're from the West, right? You're not involved in a several-decade long war with your neighbors. And with the Raitekians in the city for the week, I guess they've just upped security for now, especially in the residential areas. Speaking of which, why don't you come home with me for now? I can get you something to eat."

Derpkins 2016/09/14(Wed)15:15 No. 747957 ID: 339cf2
File 147389134438.png - (38.22KB , 361x425 , Ch2 scene 10c.png )

>if you're offered some food, please tell me you'll say, "Yes, thank you."

"Yes, thank you. I was here looking for you anyway. Maybe we can talk about the encounter yesterday, if you don't mind. How's your back, by the way?"

"Ugh, it hurts to stand. We can talk when we get home, I don't really want to talk about it just out in public."

"Ok then."

Derpkins 2016/09/14(Wed)15:16 No. 747959 ID: 339cf2
File 147389140892.png - (33.85KB , 366x429 , Ch2 scene 10d.png )

We arrive at her house, and as she opens the door, she whispers:

"By the way, don't be too loud. My brother and my friend are still asleep."

"Oh, ok. No problem." I whisper back.

We enter the house.

well might as well follow her in then. Just try not to knock anything over.

Derpkins 2016/09/14(Wed)16:51 No. 747976 ID: 339cf2
File 147389709182.png - (31.45KB , 395x383 , Ch2 scene 11a.png )

Oh yeah, she has a Fenštar. I read about those in my book. It's a black rock of some sort that supposedly protects the house while the owner is gone. It's sort of a thing for guests to offer a 'blessing' to the house when entering, and I think it would be rude for me not to. How should I 'bless' her house?

These are the only ones the book taught me:

Encourage protection to the house
Encourage protection to the residents
Encourage good luck for the residents
Encourage companionship for the residents

>Encourage protection to the residents
these do seem like trying times

>>747982
Agreed.

>>747976
How about peace and prosperity?

Seems a bit more in keeping with what we're trying to do. Protection is more adversarial; we want there to not be anything they need protecting from.

You might want to tell her what your food allergies are, just in case she tries to give you something you can't eat.

>>747990
As nice as that is, Jaa can't do that. Jaa just said they only know the "blessings" for the 4 options that are available because those are the only ones they know.

>>747976
Encourage protection to the residents.

>>747976
Protection to the residents

Derpkins 2016/09/16(Fri)15:54 No. 748178 ID: 339cf2
File 147406644666.png - (24.36KB , 678x577 , Ch2 scene 12a.png )

>>747990
>How about peace and prosperity?

Unfortunately, as mentioned by another voice, I don't know how to say that one. The only 'blessings' I learned in the book were the few I mentioned above, and I can only say those because they're in the Tellikan language. They were written using Raitekian letters, so that I would know how to pronounce them.

And I couldn't just say it in a language I know. Everyone knows that doesn't work, not to mention the fact that it's the ULTIMATE cultural faux pas to say a prayer or blessing in the wrong language.

Now then...

>Protection to the residents

This one I know.

Hmm... Technically, I'm supposed to touch the Fenštar with my hands while I say it... But I suppose it'll have the same effect if I touch the prayer cloth it's sitting on instead.

Derpkins 2016/09/16(Fri)15:54 No. 748180 ID: 339cf2
File 147406645365.png - (56.21KB , 567x488 , Ch2 scene 12b.png )

Ok, here goes...

I place my hand on the prayer cloth, and recite the words.

"Tajkova nå jök patmikes ëma fušstelom."

I think I must've said something incorrectly, because Eliri is giggling behind me.

Derpkins 2016/09/16(Fri)15:54 No. 748181 ID: 339cf2
File 147406645807.png - (27.72KB , 624x491 , Ch2 scene 12d.png )

"What?" I ask her.

"Did you read that in a book? A Raitekian book?"

How did she know?

"How did you know?" I ask, flustered.

Derpkins 2016/09/16(Fri)15:54 No. 748182 ID: 339cf2
File 147406646287.png - (24.20KB , 199x332 , Ch2 scene 12c.png )

"Because you pronounced it like a Raitekian. It sounds like you read the words, but pronounced them like Raitekian words!"

"Oh."

"It's okay. You don't have to do that if you don't know the language, but I appreciate the attempt."

"Haha, right." I say, still flustered.

Derpkins 2016/09/16(Fri)15:54 No. 748183 ID: 339cf2
File 147406646879.png - (48.65KB , 668x416 , Ch2 scene 12e.png )

We round the corner into a long hallway, and then into a bigger room with a table.

Wow, Eliri's house has a kitchen? She must be rich to be able to afford to get and make her own food every day.

"Sit down," She says, "I'll make us some breakfast."

Concerned about her back, I ask, "Are you sure your back is okay standing for so long?"

"I'll be fine. Oh, what did you want to talk to me about again?"

What should we ask about first?

>>748178
>>748180
>>748181
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!! You're so tiny, it's adorable! XD

>>748183
You really should tell her about any foods you're allergic to, so that she doesn't try to give them to you by accident.

So, do you think you can reach this table or will you need help to get up there?

>>748183
Wait, making your own food is MORE expensive than buying food elsewhere? Normally you'd have to deal with the price of labor, right?

If someone sells food, they still have to pay for the ingredients and any energy costs/etc. involved in the cooking, but they also need to make a profit.

well we could ask her what she was fighting about yesterday and what led up to said fight... and maybe why the Raitekian ran off after seeing you. I mean we have an idea on that last one but I like to try and cover all my bases.

For starters, as an icebreaker and as a start towards learning more of the language and culture, ask her if she'd be willing to teach you the proper way to pronounce the prayer, as well as a prayer for "peace and prosperity" (based on the comment from >>747990 that you pray for them to not have anything to need protecting from; I like that sentiment). (Also perhaps ask her how to politely say "I don't speak much Tellikan".)

Given her comment about appreciating the attempt, though, I think your concerns about the "ULTIMATE cultural faux pas" might have been excessive. Though you should still learn and carefully practice the right way, for when the ceremonial aspect matters more, such as if you end up offering a prayer at the diplomatic discussions.

Then, these:
>>747100
> well first see if she's ok cause she did look a little beat up the other day. Then ask what lead up to the fight and what they were fighting about in the first place... also other things to ask her is if she would know anyone that would be able to teach you the local language

>>747120
> And see if you can learn more about the general situation and interspecies tensions. She'd have valuable "on the ground" information. Keep in mind that she'll probably have some bias and misinformation, but if her and the Raitekian provide conflicting information, I'd slightly favor her information, on the basis of seeming to be the one more in the right in that particular fight.

Derpkins 2016/09/17(Sat)13:10 No. 748313 ID: 616bfd
File 147414301543.png - (16.86KB , 225x397 , Ch2 scene 13a.png )

>So, do you think you can reach this table or will you need help to get up there?

Derpkins 2016/09/17(Sat)13:10 No. 748314 ID: 616bfd
File 147414302146.png - (15.59KB , 283x288 , Ch2 scene 13b.png )

I think I can handle it.

>>748313
>>748314
Oh.....I thought, after what happened earlier, all of her tables would be out of reach for someone as small as you. I guess I was wrong.

>>748183
Could you ask her about the dreams you two had? You said it's probably just stress, but there might be something more there. Maybe she can translate the weird phrases that the people in the dream were saying. Here, I'll repeat them in case you forgot:

«Almehi kum tua?»

«Dehi na Tsetsa tua, na Tsetsa maregoki ulo tita markol!»

«Dehi kvoch noh! Dehi ihi ovalh!»

«Dehi ihi tua...»

We'll also want to know about any other local laws that might be potentially dangerous for us. Also I'm kind of curious what her job is.

If there's a good time for it, ask her how she's holding up after the fight. From there we can ask about what the fight was about in the first place, and about the general tensions she and the other citizens have to deal with.

At some point we should ask if she can help us get a reliable translator, or at least a language guide, for day-to-day living. And also to double check anything that happens during the peace talks, in case our official translator tries to manipulate us for some hidden purpose.

Maybe you can ask her more about the atmosphere here in town? Anything you should know in advance before your diplomatic mission?

Derpkins 2016/09/19(Mon)17:18 No. 748632 ID: 339cf2
File 147433068324.png - (38.39KB , 586x434 , Ch2 scene 14a.png )

>For starters, as an icebreaker and as a start towards learning more of the language and culture, ask her if she'd be willing to teach you the proper way to pronounce the prayer, as well as a prayer for "peace and prosperity"

"So, do you think you could teach me the proper way to say Tellikan words, or even how to say that I don't speak the language?"

"Well first of all, the language is called Alauno. To say you don't speak it, you just say 'Täikova kën Alauna poker's'. And on the pronunciation, you seemed to kind of fuse sounds together, to make them smooth like in Reltas. Alauno isn't smooth and soft, it's more articulate and hard."

"Hmm... I might need to practice that to get it. Do you maybe know anyone around here that may be able to teach me?"

"Actually, it's funny you should ask. My friend who lives here, and actually owns the property, spent some time in The Tajili toward the beginning of the war, so she probably speaks your natural language. She may be able to help you."

"Wow, really? How interesting, what did she do there?"

"Well, The Tajili are the closest islands to the conflict outside of the countries, so when the area became the main battlefield, people fled to the nearest place. She speaks tons of languages, and was helping people from different places and with different languages get to where they needed to go by translating for them. I honestly couldn't think of a better teacher for you."

"Wow, thank you."

Interesting. This is pretty cool, if I have some free time (which I'm sure I'll have plenty of, the conference isn't for another month or so if I'm remembering correctly) I'll have to meet with this friend for a few lessons.

Derpkins 2016/09/19(Mon)17:18 No. 748634 ID: 339cf2
File 147433069860.png - (12.54KB , 139x229 , Ch2 scene 14g.png )

>well first see if she's ok cause she did look a little beat up the other day. Then ask what lead up to the fight and what they were fighting about in the first place.

"So, what led up to that fight you had the other day?"

She takes a moment before answering.

"You know, is it okay if we wait for a little while? If my brother wakes up, he gets a little, 'upset' when we talk about Raitekians, and he's very protective of me. I don't want to inconvenience the conversation."

"Oh, ok."

"But he usually goes to the market for my Friend in the mornings, so we can chat about it when he leaves."

"Alright, that's fine."

It looks like we'll have to wait a little while for that.

"Hold on a moment, I need to get that." Eliri says, leaving the room.

All right, awkward alone time in somebody else's house.

Derpkins 2016/09/19(Mon)17:18 No. 748636 ID: 339cf2
File 147433072912.png - (112.70KB , 925x493 , Food Flowchart.png )

I can't stand silence, I have to do something. I'm going to explain the kitchen thing.

>Wait, making your own food is MORE expensive than buying food elsewhere?

Yes. Bear with me because this is gonna take a while.

Normally you don't BUY your own food. you see, there's a complicated system in place where the government and Royalty take care of handling food and paying the Farmers and whatnot, and then give what they don't need to the distributors or sell it to merchants.

Most of the time, you go to the local Food-Place and show your ID slip, which gets you two meals a day, with the only the cost of being a citizen or legal visitor. They get food from the normal distributors. In other situations, maybe you don't want to go there or have a bit of money to spend, you can go to a Kuvek (I don't know the word in any other language) which is a place you can go to where you can pay them for the food, and you get it fresher and likely quicker than a government run Food-Place where you'd have to wait in line. Then there are markets and smaller shops (like Lyulya's) which provide food quickly and conveniently for a small fee.

Then there are the larger markets, which get food directly from the Royal Food Handlers rather than from the normal Distributors, and pay a percentage of what they get as taxes directly to the King or Queen. It's about the freshest food you can get without actually being royalty, but its way expensive. Most rich people go to these markets everyday and get what they need, and prepare it at home (or have their servants prepare it).

This is why you'd need to have a heavy and stable income to have a useful kitchen.

>This is why you'd need to have a heavy and stable income to have a useful kitchen.

So that's how it works back home, you sure that's how it works here? I mean they do have a different government so it wouldn't be so strange to find they run things differently as well. Maybe if you go back to the book vender at any point you can see if she has anything on how this country is ran so it will give you a better idea how to conduct yourself during the conference. I mean it couldn't hurt to know at least the basics of the local political climate to better understand how they think.

>>748636
So, if you see a fat person, that means they're either in a high ranking government position or someone that is royalty, right?

Derpkins 2016/09/20(Tue)09:22 No. 748740 ID: 20e2dc
File 147438856397.png - (25.65KB , 598x544 , Ch2 scene 15a.png )

>So that's how it works back home, you sure that's how it works here? I mean they do have a different government so it wouldn't be so strange to find they run things differently as well. Maybe if you go back to the book vender at any point you can see if she has anything on how this country is ran so it will give you a better idea how to conduct yourself during the conference. I mean it couldn't hurt to know at least the basics of the local political climate to better understand how they think.

Well, I don't see any other way the food thing would work, but this is a good idea. I don't want to make a fool of myself or my country.

>So, if you see a fat person, that means they're either in a high ranking government position or someone that is royalty, right?

It's almost guaranteed

"Hey, Suskenian." Eliri calls from the other room, "It's for you."

For me? At her house? Strange, but I should probably see who it is.

Derpkins 2016/09/20(Tue)09:22 No. 748741 ID: 20e2dc
File 147438857078.png - (36.73KB , 495x516 , Ch2 scene 15b.png )

Whoa, it's another Suskenian! He's dressed as a courier, so there must be an important message for me, which must be why they tracked me down to Eliri's house.

The Suskenian friend clears his throat,

"Are you Jaa Kuper-ze Žan?" He asks.

"I am." I answer.

"There's a message from the Tovolean Peace Conference division Taubaknawa:"

Uh-oh, that sounds serious.

He opens up the letter and reads it to me.

Derpkins 2016/09/20(Tue)09:22 No. 748742 ID: 20e2dc
File 147438857747.png - (16.32KB , 248x251 , Ch2 scene 15d.png )

"Jaa kuper-ze Žan: The Tovolean Division Taubaknwa regrets to inform you that the previous date of the International Tellikan-Raitekian Peace Conference is no longer accurate. Due to reasons you are not allowed to know, the date will be pushed from Onmaj 9 to Onmaj 41. You are hereby ordered to remain in the Tellikan Lands until two weeks before the conference, when you will travel directly to the city of Gemorobük in Kobaku. You will be escorted from there to the place of meeting at the correct date.

Wow, sounds like you've got business in the Karenzau Desert. That's rough pal, good luck with that."

"Yeah, thanks." I say, processing the information. The Suskenian leaves.

Derpkins 2016/09/20(Tue)09:23 No. 748743 ID: 20e2dc
File 147438858340.png - (13.08KB , 205x315 , Ch2 scene 15f.png )

The Tovoleans are postponing the Peace conference? What's up with that, that's almost an entire motnh later! And I'm supposed to just stay here? What could be so important that they have to postpone the only thing keeping the two sides from killing each other? And the Desert? Why would they havev the conference there, when most of the ambassadors are from the North? Something weird is going on, I can feel it.

"What did he say?" Eliri asks.

Should we tell her that the conference is being postponed? She'd probably want to know, because you know, the fate of her people are in the hands of the peace conference and those mysterious Tovoleans. But it might upset her to know that there's something ELSE that the Tovoleans are doing that, at least to them, takes priority over world peace. Especially considering her home country is directly involved in the aggression.

Might as well tell her, she'll find out about it one way or another. Also since it seems you're going to be here a while, it's probably a bad idea to piss off one of the few people you've met that can speak the same language as you by lying to them.

'Due to reasons you are not allowed to know'? wow, they aren't afraid to rub your nose in it. I I were you, I'd be worried I'm playing the role of the doomed spy.

>>748743
Good news, we get to hang out for another month!

>>748740
>It's almost guaranteed.
Well, seeing as you are neither fat nor a member of royalty, I'm guessing that means your position of diplomat isn't a high ranking position in your government. Am I right?

>>748743
I wouldn't be surprised if she heard every word, but she didn't want you to know that she was eavesdropping, so she's asking what was said out of politeness and to see if you're willing to share this info with her. Which I think you should go ahead and tell her, as long as you make her promise that she won't kill the messenger, which would be both you and that guy that delivered the message to you.

tell her the conference has been rescheduled and relocated and it's probably going to make our job a little bit harder.

but yeah speaking of the change, is the desert in any of the warring nation's territory or is it in neutral ground... neutral ground that someone actually controls and not just an empty strip of land that nobody could care less about? Because it could be as simple as one side having an internal problem and having to sort things out back home before they start focusing on problems outside their borders or it could be that they're trying to build up for something or are planning an ambush at the meeting. I mean with alot of the countries leaders in one place it does make a tempting target or a great opportunity to attack while they're away and unable to respond.

>>748743
Yes, tell her.

We're going to be asking her for various advice; we could probably get better advice if she knows. And that information, itself, probably isn't that sensitive, or the courier wouldn't have read it to us rather than handing us a sealed eyes-only message.

Derpkins 2016/09/21(Wed)19:47 No. 748982 ID: 339cf2
File 147451245810.png - (13.08KB , 205x315 , Ch2 scene 15f.png )

>Well, seeing as you are neither fat nor a member of royalty, I'm guessing that means your position of diplomat isn't a high ranking position in your government. Am I right?

Yep. As I said earlier, my position is not exactly one of great power. I'm just the guy who travels across the continent to tell the Tovoleans what my leader says. Other than that, I don't hold any real power.

>I wouldn't be surprised if she heard every word

Me neither, but what WOULD surprise me would be if she actually understood a word of the dialect. That guy was speaking Truidian Common Suskenian. The irony of the name is that it's only spoken in a small group of towns in the way far southern area of Marikor. Which just happens to be where I live, so the messenger was instructed to speak my native language with me for maximum understanding.

What I'm saying is that she likely heard several words, but had no idea what any of them meant. Like how I hear the Tellikans speaking to each other, but still don't know what most of the words mean.

>>748798
>but yeah speaking of the change, is the desert in any of the warring nation's territory or is it in neutral ground...

The desert is neutral ground, because it's almost completely uninhabitable, so nobody owns any territory there. Besides, apparently, the Tovoleans.

Derpkins 2016/09/21(Wed)19:47 No. 748983 ID: 339cf2
File 147451246772.png - (12.65KB , 235x288 , Ch2 scene 16a.png )

>Might as well tell her, she'll find out about it one way or another. Also since it seems you're going to be here a while, it's probably a bad idea to piss off one of the few people you've met that can speak the same language as you by lying to them.

Once again, you make a good point.

"Well, it was a letter from the Tovoleans. They said that they're changing the date and location of the meeting."

"What? Why?" She asks nervously.

"They didn't tell me that, only where and when I'm supposed to go. And they also said I need to stay in the city until then."

"That's kind of weird. The Tovoleans are always in the center of weird things that are going on. Anyway, when was it supposed to be? And when is it now?"

"Well, they postponed it about five weeks from the 9th day of next month."

She looks flustered.

Derpkins 2016/09/21(Wed)19:47 No. 748984 ID: 339cf2
File 147451247218.png - (18.53KB , 194x239 , Ch2 scene 16b.png )

"What? They can't just do that! What are we supposed to do in the meantime? The armistice is temporary, who knows when the fighting will start again! This is our lives we're postponing!"

She's pretty agitated, and continues saying things which I can only assume are curses in her native language. Her face is even blushing in frustration.

Tell her you're going to do your best to keep the fighting from starting again while you're still here. You are still a diplomat and will have some limited sway, but you're going to need help.

>>748984
> Her face is even blushing in frustration.

Blushing is a sign of frustration in Tellikans?

In any case, try to comfort her. Does she actually know yet that we're the diplomat assigned to the talks? She might wonder why we're getting a message about the talks being postponed, but we never told her that. Talk to her about your hopes for the talks, and ask her for the lay of the political landscape, or as much as she wants to share while the house isn't empty yet.

>>748982
AH-HA!!!!! You finally slipped up and told us your gender! So you're a guy, huh? .....you have very womanly curves for a guy.

>>748984
Are you sure she's blushing in frustration? She could be blushing because she thinks you're really cute! ;3

But seriously, put your hands up in front of your face and tell her, "Don't kill the messenger, don't kill the messenger!" DX

>>748996
Really? "Guy" can be gender neutral, yo.

>>749002
I know, I'm just messing with Jaa.

Derpkins 2016/09/22(Thu)05:55 No. 749064 ID: 415029
File 147454894353.png - (21.19KB , 216x197 , Ch2 scene 17a.png )

>Blushing is a sign of frustration in Tellikans?

Yes, and not just Tellikans. For most of the races, when we get angry/frustrated/anxious/embarrassed/etc. we get what we call 'purple face', which is when the blood rushes to our head during times of stress. Nobody really knows why though.

You may have seen Eliri and the Raitekian with purple face earlier, when they were fighting. It shows more on some than others.

>AH-HA!!!!! You finally slipped up and told us your gender! So you're a guy, huh? .....you have very womanly curves for a guy.

>Are you sure she's blushing in frustration? She could be blushing because she thinks you're really cute! ;3

What? I'm pretty sure I never said anything about that...

But thanks for the compliment, I think.

Derpkins 2016/09/22(Thu)05:55 No. 749065 ID: 415029
File 147454895245.png - (15.65KB , 233x180 , Ch2 scene 16c.png )

>In any case, try to comfort her. Does she actually know yet that we're the diplomat assigned to the talks?

You're right, we never actually told her about our position in the meeting.

"Listen, I'm a diplomat. In fact, I'm THE diplomat. And I'm going to do everything I can in order to get the war and hostilities over with as soon as possible."

She sighs, but seems to have calmed down.

"I'm sorry, it's just that... Every time it seems like the war is about to end, something gets in the way and ruins everything."

"I promise, I'll do everything I can to make it quick."

"Thank you, afir. You don't know how much I appreciate it."

She pauses for a moment, as though she's listening for something.

Derpkins 2016/09/22(Thu)05:56 No. 749066 ID: 415029
File 147454896223.png - (17.69KB , 240x288 , Ch2 scene 17c.png )

"Oops!" She says "I forgot Toti and Kori were asleep! I must have woken them up when I shouted."

"Who?"

"My friend and my brother. Why don't I introduce you guys, change the subject?"

"Sure, I'd love to. And I'd love to formally meet your brother."

>But thanks for the compliment, I think.
"You think"?! What do you mean by that?! Did I insult you or something?! I'm so sorry, please don't hate me!

Can the introductions happen while you're eating breakfast? Cause it would really suck if you forgot to eat and end up starving all day.

well seeing how you're going to be stuck here for awhile it might not hurt to make some friends.

Derpkins 2016/09/25(Sun)20:07 No. 749762 ID: 339cf2
File 147485923863.png - (13.08KB , 222x338 , Ch2 scene 18a.png )

>Can the introductions happen while you're eating breakfast? Cause it would really suck if you forgot to eat and end up starving all day.

Good point

"I'm sorry, but would it be possible to for the introductions to happen over breakfast? I do hate to impose, but -"

"Oh, of course! Don't worry about it, afir, I'll finish making breakfast while you chat with her."

That went well. I don't like to ask things of other people too often.

Derpkins 2016/09/25(Sun)20:07 No. 749763 ID: 339cf2
File 147485924580.png - (26.28KB , 622x312 , Ch2 scene 18b.png )

We round the corner back into the kitchen, but this time there's another Tellikan already there, though quite a bit smaller than the majority I've met. Eliri speaks directly to her.

"Toti, nù jetleref i'a. Nù kek lulnau i'a, mën kën Alauna poker'a. Amskå, tchou mët nùo kurser'es poker."

Toti seems to understand, and approaches me.

Derpkins 2016/09/25(Sun)20:07 No. 749764 ID: 339cf2
File 147485925377.png - (58.64KB , 802x756 , Ch2 scene 18c.png )

"Hø̂č ë̂n e̬k, I am Tottilla Këngart. You may know my father, the regent?"

Whoa. Alpar Këngart is the regent, in control of pretty much the main forces of the Tellikan side of the war while the current King has fallen ill. I'll be seeing him (or at least one of his representatives) at the peace conference. He'll be representing the Kingdom of Povrarn. I'll have to use the formal inflection, so that I don't offend her!

Speaking of which, she's speaking Tajilan! And quite well too! Usually the other races who generally speak more simple languages have trouble with the subtle tonality of our Western Languages.

How exciting!

"Good morning, Mak Protic Totilla. It's truly an honour to meet you. I am called Jâa̬ Ku̬pêr-zê žàn. I am the Marikoran national representative for the peace conference, as your father will be going to."

"Pleased to meet you, Jaa. But, you don't need to speak to me like that right now. In my house, at this time of the morning, we're friends."

"Ok then."

She seems to want to keep the conversation casual.

Oh, and I just thought of something. There's a high chance that she will have information on our mystery Raitekian. Her job as Mak Protic including keeping records of many things, including imports and importers. She probably knows the Raitekian's name, family name, home city, etc. and may be willing to share.

So sorry for the delay this time. School stuff got pretty stressful this week, but it's going more smoothly now.

>>749763
>though quite a bit smaller than the majority I've met.
And yet, you're still smaller than her. Honestly, I'm surprised none of them have tried to pick you up and cuddle you because of how adorably small you are! XD

>>749764
>Oh, and I just thought of something. There's a high chance that she will have information on our mystery Raitekian. Her job as Mak Protic including keeping records of many things, including imports and importers. She probably knows the Raitekian's name, family name, home city, etc. and may be willing to share.
Well, that's convenient. Just remember Eliri's request and don't talk about it until her brother leaves.

>In my house, at this time of the morning, we're friends.
Ah, this must be the friend that Eliri mentioned earlier. She also said that you should ask her friend for help on how to speak Alauno. Specifically, the sentence "Täikova kën Alauna poker's" which translates to "I don't speak Alauno".

>>749762
> "Oh, of course! Don't worry about it, afir, I'll finish making breakfast while you chat with her."

"afir"?

>>749767
> Well, that's convenient. Just remember Eliri's request and don't talk about it until her brother leaves.

This. And make sure you give Eliri the opportunity to say whether she wants you talking about it with Tottilla.

Derpkins 2016/09/26(Mon)16:38 No. 749910 ID: 339cf2
File 147493307931.png - (11.36KB , 196x261 , Ch2 scene 19a.png )

>"afir"?

Afir is the Tellikan (Alauno?) word for friend. This is a word that most Tellikans seem to use, even when speaking other languages. It's a bit strange, but you kind of get used to it.

>And yet, you're still smaller than her. Honestly, I'm surprised none of them have tried to pick you up and cuddle you because of how adorably small you are! XD

Well, the average height for Tellikans is about 2H, whereas the average height of Suskenians is about 1.3H. Toti is pretty short for a Tellikan, but I'm also pretty short for a Suskenian. Did you see how short I was compared to that messenger earlier?

And neither have picked me up and 'cuddled' me because they probably realize that that is an inappropriate thing to do in the current> situation.

And don't call me adorable.

Derpkins 2016/09/26(Mon)16:38 No. 749911 ID: 339cf2
File 147493308577.png - (50.61KB , 831x432 , Ch2 scene 19b.png )

>Ah, this must be the friend that Eliri mentioned earlier. She also said that you should ask her friend for help on how to speak Alauno.

It would appear so. I would have had no idea Eliri had such powerful connections. It's very convenient that not only do they live together, but the potential Alauno lessons in the future. I ought to ask her about it.

"You speak Tajilan very well. Eliri has told me that you spent some time in The Tajili helping the refugees."

"Did she? Well, it's true. I had a wonderful time, too. You Suskenians sure know how to run an island. Everything went very smoothly, most of the time, and I enjoyed my stay there even when I wasn't working and helping the refugees. And your language too, it's incredible! It's so complex, with so many sounds and tones, but it's still smooth and intuitive. You're people are quite amazing."

"Wow, thank you. Speaking of each other's languages, Eliri also mentioned that you might be willing to help me pick up the language while I was here. I don't mean to impose or anything, but you two are the only people I've gotten to know that I can understand."

"Of course, I'd love to teach you Alauno! I fell like you'd be able to appreciate it, from what I've heard from my father."

"Thank you very much, you are too kind Tottilla."

Derpkins 2016/09/26(Mon)16:38 No. 749912 ID: 339cf2
File 147493309070.png - (32.66KB , 425x320 , Ch2 scene 19d.png )

Eliri's brother walks past the doorway, shouting something to Eliri, who sat down at the table near us.

"Ok here's breakfast." She says. "Kori is off to the town for the morning, so we can talk about the Raitekian without worrying about him getting nervous."

Ok, where should we start?

>>749910
>And don't call me adorable.
But I must! Because it's true! :3

>>749912
>Ok, where should we start?
With the obvious questions. Who started it and why did they start it? And ask if the town is really so boring that a crowd will start cheering instead of trying to break up a fight?

And maybe point out that the Raitekian was wearing a necklace similar to yours and then show them your necklace so they know what to look for if they're going to help look for him/her.

>>749912
Start simple. "So, what happened?"

After you hear more of the story, you can segue into asking more about the broader political and cultural climate, but start by finding out what happened. And let her tell the story in her own time; don't do anything to make her feel like you're interrogating her.

>>749941
> And maybe point out that the Raitekian was wearing a necklace similar to yours and then show them your necklace so they know what to look for if they're going to help look for him/her.

Also this, yes.

Derpkins 2016/09/27(Tue)10:27 No. 750038 ID: 20e2dc
File 147499724827.png - (32.86KB , 517x321 , Ch2 scene 20a.png )

>Start simple. "So, what happened?"

"So Eliri, what actually happened? How did the fighting start, and what led up to it."

"Well, not much really. I was turning a corner, when the Raitekian got up in my face, spouting nonsense that I didn't quite understand for how fast she was talking."

She looks a bit embarrassed.

"So, I shoved her."

"You shoved the Raitekian? Why?"

"Because, I felt intimidated! How would you feel if someone got up in your face, someone who you were taught to hate since childhood? I was afraid the stories I heard of the Raitekians were actually true. Anyway, she came back to me and grabbed my shoulder, so I punched at her. But she was somehow able to easily block it and pin me to the ground. Kori left to get you, and you know the rest."

Hmm... it appears as though Eliri was the one who actually started getting physical. Whether or not there was any danger seems to be up to interpretation.

"I'm sorry, I didn't meant to offend you, just trying to get the story straight. Anyway, do you know why she may have bolted after noticing me?"

"Hmmm.... Not really. Maybe she thought you were some kind of international police. There are stories of their ruthlessness and brutality. It's what I would've done."

"Interesting. I don't know what about me screams 'police', but that might make sense."

Suggestion 2016/09/27(Tue)10:27 No. 750039 ID: 20e2dc
File 147499725419.png - (14.51KB , 206x268 , Ch2 scene 20b.png )

>And maybe point out that the Raitekian was wearing a necklace similar to yours and then show them your necklace so they know what to look for if they're going to help look for him/her.

"Oh, also. I noticed the Raitekian was wearing a purple necklace kind of like the one I have in my bag."

"Can we see it? Maybe we can use that to find her if we need to go looking."

"Sure, here it is."

I fish it out of my back and hold it up for them.

Suggestion 2016/09/27(Tue)10:28 No. 750040 ID: 20e2dc
File 147499730415.png - (50.81KB , 449x600 , Ch2 scene 20c.png )

Both Eliri and Toti physically startled upon seeing it.

"Jaa, where did you get one of those?" Toti asks excitedly.

"What? A Raitekian bookshop owner gave it to me. She said it would help me understand people's intentions, even if I didn't understand the language. Is that wrong?"

"That's not nearly the whole truth. Yes mutual understanding is one of the passive side effects of that, but the crystal itself augments the Manonvite, the most powerful sphere in your body, controlling your psychic abilities! It's used to influence others' opinions and choices against their will, without realizing it wasn't their will. It's an incredibly rare and valuable stone, not something that someone would just give away without a good reason."

"I didn't even know that... I never learned about crystals and stuff."

"So now I have two questions:" Eliri says, "Why did the shop owner give you one, and why does the Raitekian have one?"

"The shop owner may have felt that you were in danger from another psychic. If she was able to feel that so easily, you might be in danger, Jaa." Toti says.

"She didn't seem bothered when she was talking to me." I say, "She made it out like it was no big deal."

Both of them are staring at me, making me pretty uncomfortable.

This conversation took a turn. I didn't expect it to turn around onto me like this. That being said, I don't feel too worried about my potential 'danger', because psychic abilities don't actually exist. If the Tellikans and Raitekians weren't so religious and spiritual, they'd notice that as well.

Anyway, what should we make of this? Is this something we should worry about, or should we steer the conversation back to the Raitekian?

>Special necklace.
So, does that mean it's controlling you and you should take it off or does that mean that it's protecting you from being controlled by others and you should keep it on? Their explanation is confusing me on that.

>It's used to influence others' opinions and choices against their will, without realizing it wasn't their will.
That might explain why the Raitekian left so suddenly, you wanted her to leave and so she left.

>That being said, I don't feel too worried about my potential 'danger', because psychic abilities don't actually exist.
You don't know that. The fact that you don't believe is probably why you could easily be controlled. And because of your job as diplomat, you'd be perfect to take control of. And let's not forget, you're not the only diplomat going to the meeting. If all of you were to be influenced by someone else, they could easily keep the fight going and ruin any chance of peace! You might want to voice these concerns to your two new best friends!

>Is this something we should worry about, or should we steer the conversation back to the Raitekian?
You might want to ask them if this topic is more important than the Raitekian? Because if someone's trying to influence you, a diplomat for peace, then yes it's more important.

>>750040
Uh wait, that thing enhances your psychic powers, including influencing people? That possibly even means that you accidentally mind-controlled the Raitekian into stopping fighting. That's a rather frightening trinket you have there. Who the hell was Tori, really?

Though also of note, she said there was some ceremony going on involving sacrificing items of great value to bring luck to the peacekeepers. I'd think giving away a valuable crystal necklace might be considered a part of that?

Anyway, let's try to combine the two topics of conversation. You said the Raitekian was wearing that sort of necklace, and at the very least Eliri and Toti believe in it. Do they think the Raitekian might have "encouraged" her to get physical first, to provoke a fight while not "starting the fight" herself?

>>750107
All of this.

Derpkins 2016/09/29(Thu)05:53 No. 750293 ID: 20e2dc
File 147515360814.png - (14.93KB , 196x285 , C2 scene 21a.png )

>You don't know that. The fact that you don't believe is probably why you could easily be controlled. And because of your job as diplomat, you'd be perfect to take control of.

That's a good point, even though I've never seen any evidence to support that idea. I'll have to keep an eye out just in case.

>So, does that mean it's controlling you and you should take it off or does that mean that it's protecting you from being controlled by others and you should keep it on? Their explanation is confusing me on that.

"I'm confused, is this thing dangerous? Should I get rid of it?"

"No, it doesn't work like that." Toti says, " The controller needs to have it with him. In fact, by giving it to you, they'd be making it harder to control you, because it's strengthening your Manonvite. You should keep it."

>Uh wait, that thing enhances your psychic powers, including influencing people? That possibly even means that you accidentally mind-controlled the Raitekian into stopping fighting.

"So, since I was carrying it yesterday, could that maybe explain why the Raitekian left so quickly? Because I made her want to leave."

"It's a bit more complicated than that. First off, you'd have to be making a conscious effort to invade her mind. You probably weren't doing that, considering you didn't even know how the crystal worked in the first place. Second, you said she also was wearing one. It would take a very competent, probably natural psychic to be able to perform a feat like that in such a manner."

>Do they think the Raitekian might have "encouraged" her to get physical first, to provoke a fight while not "starting the fight" herself?

"So, is it maybe possible that the Raitekian had used hers to make you fight her? Maybe she was trying to stage something against Tellikans."

"It's possible." Eliri says, "I'm usually not so jumpy, even around Raitekians. And those fishermen had been delivering to the city for months, so I should've been comfortable around them, not anxious."

"It's one explanation." Toti says, "But again, she'd have to be a natural psychic, or at least very extensively trained to be able to do something like that so quickly."

Derpkins 2016/09/29(Thu)05:53 No. 750294 ID: 20e2dc
File 147515361480.png - (10.31KB , 185x240 , Ch2 scene 21b.png )

>Though also of note, she said there was some ceremony going on involving sacrificing items of great value to bring luck to the peacekeepers. I'd think giving away a valuable crystal necklace might be considered a part of that?

"The lady who gave this to me said she was going to use this in a ceremony for good luck for the negotiations, where does that fit into this?"

"The Kek Briuuk. Every month, we find a common issue among all our people, and we all gather for a sacrifice. We sacrifice all sorts of things, inlcuding crystals. The more important the item to you, the better the luck."

"Is it possible she was just giving it to me for that? Good luck?"

"Probably not. The actual ceremony isn't for another few days, and the sacrificing part is burning it in a fire and burying it. It just works that way."

"Oh."

Derpkins 2016/09/29(Thu)05:53 No. 750295 ID: 20e2dc
File 147515361861.png - (12.49KB , 161x260 , Ch2 scene 21c.png )

"So, say somebody is after me. What can I do about this?"

"I would look for a Velēn," Eliri says, "They're like, professional psychics that help people out. If you can find one, they can help you learn who's trying to get you. Once you learn who they are and what their intentions are, then their psychic attacks will be weakened further. The only flaw there, is that they'll be forced to come after you physically."

"Oh,"

"But since you have that crystal, you may be able to deter them from doing that. Even though you're inexperienced, you can still direct raw intention through the crystal at him, which is less effective but may do the trick."

"Can I start doing this now?"

"Probably not, unless you already know who's after you."

"Well then how can I find this Velēn?"

"Normally I'd be able to help you," Toti says, "Because I keep records of all the official occupations of the citizens in the city. But Velēn isn't an official profession [small]no thanks to our beloved king[/small, and thus I don't actually know all the psychics around town. Your best bet would be to look and ask around."

"Which we can help you with, since you don't understand the language well." Eliri adds.

"Thank you, that's very kind."

"Also, since we're now helping each other, maybe you should also stay close by. You can stay in my house with us until the conference if you want."

Whoa, that came out of nowhere. It's a very tempting offer, especially considering I won't have to be paying the Hotel a fee just for living there. Should I take her up on the offer?

And what should I do for now?

I could stay for a while longer, and see what other things I could learn.

or

I could leave for the bank now, and begin my search for a psychic.

Or, you guys could suggest anything else?

>Should I take her up on the offer?
You should express concerns about the fact there's already 3 others living here and you don't want to intrude. If she's sure that it's ok, then yes accept her offer. Maybe make a joke about everyone else's size and how you hope none of them will accidentally squish you because of how small you are.

Don't forget that you need to go back to the hotel to get your stuff that you left in your room! You should let them know about this.

>And what should I do for now?
I say stay here for now and maybe learn some more. The bank isn't going anywhere and because it's still early in the morning, the bank probably isn't even open yet. Besides, since you're going to be living here with them, this would be a good time to take a look around the house so that you know where everything is and where your room is going to be.

>>750295
Ask them whether they'd be able to help you practice with the mind-influencing stone.

Also, no, don't take them up on it. Thank them profusely for the offer, and take them up on the rest (language, help finding people and services), but you should avoid even the appearance of impropriety. What does it look like if the neutral third-party diplomat is starting with three Tellikans, including the regent's daughter and Mak Protic?