Oh nice, the best quest of the evening is here!

Ah, lamia child quest. Worth waiting for.

Also, I wanted to ask- is it okay to make a discussion thread for this on tgchan? Figured I should ask the runner.

>>24080955
Yay! Hi Echo!

A day of rest at the beach was just what the Cups Guild Healer ordered. Sun, surf, Barney Pits' latest invention known as ice cream, and you almost forget your host of endless troubles for a while.

Using the returned Nightmare, 'Lightmare' to go to the Dwarven city of Bronze Peak, you stopped at an inn mid-way. There you run into the Lightbringers themselves. The pair, along with wearing the most ridiculous armor and weapons that you've ever seen, live in a world that's dominated by the Citadel Enchantment. People repeat the same phrases over and over again, and no one has any actual personality save themselves. You almost succumbed to the Enchantment yourself, but fought it off with the help of your friends, and a cuckoo clock. You gave the girl Lightbringer, an amulet of the Caligo Clarus, and your best wishes.

Your hopes for a quiet weekend were shattered when the Dramatae themselves jumped you. They easily subdued you with their powers. Peace interrogated you with the strangest questions, ones that suggested that Peace wanted to make sure that you didn't revive the Dragon Who Was Of Shadow, or upset the current Newgate royalty lineage. Satisfied Peace then left you unconscious, waking up the next morning to find the world returned to normal, and the Lightbringers long gone.

You arrived at Bronze Peak and made your way to the Mage's Sanctuary there. Peri/Mari are being examined by the Mages, and you're getting some questions answered by one of the acolytes.

>>24081004
>is it okay to make a discussion thread for this on tgchan?

Yeah, sure go nuts. I know it's already on 1d4chan. http://1d4chan.org/wiki/Quest:Lamia_Daughter_Quest

>>24081154
marvelous, I'll make one up next time I'm jonesing for some snake heroism.

>>24081137
Also, I know you guys had a thousand questions when I had to close yesterday, so we're just going to do quick answers for a bit, unless they're important plot points. So go ahead and rapid fire them away.

>>24081187
Let me list a few from random folks in the last thread:

"Is there any way of finding out someone's true name, other than good old detective work?"

"Are there methods of long distance magic communication?"

"Are there magical methods of protecting the mind?"

"Does magical truth detection exist? Can it be fooled?"

"Can equipment be made permanently better with magic? Or weapons?"

"Any books on spell creation for my wizard friend?"

"Do you know of any good blacksmiths?"

"Are there any paladins around here I might like to meet?"

"What things would you suggest doing in this town? You live here after all."

>>24081242
Oh, and a last one I thought of last night:

"Do you know where I could get my hands on some quicksilver?"

>>24081187

Would Dragon's blood help Lea regenerate at all like it would us? (Only ask this if Lea is otherwise occupied so as not to be terribly insensitive.)

Is there a library we could have access to?

>>24081242
>"Is there any way of finding out someone's true name, other than good old detective work?"

There's nothing known to Citadel mages, but there are legends of artifacts like the Book of Names or Sight Stones that can get a person's name. As an interesting side note, Ssen Patrick and Mage Patrick are NOT the true names of you and Mage.

>"Are there methods of long distance magic communication?"

There's some Fey Court magic known as Sending Stones, which can record and playback messages. There's some Pre-Citadel age artifacts known as Whisper Flutes, which can be used for real time conversation, but the only ones that are known to exist are within Grand Citadel's Conclave vault.

>"Are there magical methods of protecting the mind?"

Short answer: No. Longer answer: Yes, but nothing that is known or taught by Citadel mages. (Gee, I wonder why)

>"Does magical truth detection exist? Can it be fooled?"

Yes, and yes. The Purple Occuli have spells and artifacts to ensure truth, but they keep those things under guard and secrecy to ensure that people don't find ways to crack them.

>"Can equipment be made permanently better with magic? Or weapons?"

Not permanently. A spell would have to keep being recast over and over again onto the weapon to keep it effective. It's why people prefer runes or unique metals with innate properties.

>"Any books on spell creation for my wizard friend?"

Plenty, but it takes time for Mage to learn a spell, let a lone do his reverse-engineering on the magic.

>"Do you know of any good blacksmiths?"

The best known one is this dwarf named Trevor, who has the biggest foundry in town. But there's plenty of other places, and he's not the best known for Quicksilver weapons. That is a guy named Quentin, but he doesn't have the best reputation.

>"Are there any paladins around here I might like to meet?"

Paladin Balles (Pronounced BAIL-ss) of the Red Occuli.

>"What things would you suggest doing in this town? You live here after all."

>>24081456
I wonder about mari's body. There is a cure out there, the people who poisoned her were TALKING about it. We should have captured then way back when.

>>24081242
>"What things would you suggest doing in this town? You live here after all."

Visiting Sandover's 'recreational facility,' go on a 'Dragon Hunting' expedition, or (if you're into it) go to a Blue-Smoke parlor.

>"Do you know where I could get my hands on some quicksilver?"

Quentin supposedly has a small supply, but it ain't cheap.

>Would Dragon's blood help Lea regenerate at all like it would us?

Maybe. The amazing panacea powers of Dragon's Blood aren't heavily documented. The trick is that when a Dragon is killed, Dragon Bile is often mixed with the blood, rendering it utterly useless.

Anyway you're practically back to normal. Save for the little marks of black veins on your wrists that Granny left, and that your eyes are now yellow instead of green, you're back to your old looks.

>Is there a library we could have access to?

Sure, in the Conclave.

>>24081473
> There's nothing known to Citadel mages, but there are legends of artifacts like the Book of Names or Sight Stones that can get a person's name. As an interesting side note, Ssen Patrick and Mage Patrick are NOT the true names of you and Mage.

Do we know our own true names?

> There's some Fey Court magic known as Sending Stones, which can record and playback messages. There's some Pre-Citadel age artifacts known as Whisper Flutes, which can be used for real time conversation, but the only ones that are known to exist are within Grand Citadel's Conclave vault.
> Short answer: No. Longer answer: Yes, but nothing that is known or taught by Citadel mages. (Gee, I wonder why)

Sounds like two good areas for Mage to start researching. I'd suggest he start with communication at a distance; seems wildly useful to us, and it'll be a little while before we have any hope against those who can influence our mind.

> Plenty, but it takes time for Mage to learn a spell, let a lone do his reverse-engineering on the magic.

Sure; more talking about books on spell creation and reverse engineering itself, to help improve his effectiveness in doing so.

> Not permanently. A spell would have to keep being recast over and over again onto the weapon to keep it effective. It's why people prefer runes or unique metals with innate properties.

"Runes? What kinds of things can those do, and can the Mage Guild help us with them?"

> Paladin Balles (Pronounced BAIL-ss) of the Red Occuli.

This one I think we'd like to hear from Ewing; hopefully he supplied some information to go with the name.

>>24081570
> Anyway you're practically back to normal. Save for the little marks of black veins on your wrists that Granny left, and that your eyes are now yellow instead of green, you're back to your old looks.

I think at this point we should take the advice of not trying to eliminate all scars. A bit too revisionist, too Citadel; it happened, after all. Eyes would be nice, though.

>>24081570
"Do you have a map of the city?"

"What can you tell us about the city and its culture? Particularly things a visitor might not know that everyone in Bronze Peak would take for granted."

>>24081473
ooh runes, we should see if there is a runepriest? around to magically empower our spear.

>>24081621
>"Do you have a map of the city?"
Obviously not expecting a graphical version, here, but something Ssen and company can reference and find landmarks on would be nice.

>>24081603
eh, I'm fine with the scarring as it is. If we get any healing elixir, there are people who need it WAY more.

>>24081635
in b4 I have to draw another one of my shitty maps.

At least the last one was passable.

>>24081641
I agree, i kind of like our yellow eyes, especially if they are no longer dull, a bright yellow would look golden.

>>24081641
Absolutely. Lea, for instance as mentioned earlier. Tara as well, to some extent.

>>24081654
The last one turned out really well; not necessarily "maps as art" but definitely "maps as useful tools drawn by adventurers for adventurers", which for our purposes helps greatly.

>>24081627
Spear would be nice; a rune-enhanced quicksilver Clang, though, would be incredible.

>>24081473
>That is a guy named Quentin, but he doesn't have the best reputation.

Not a name we've heard before. What does he have a poor reputation about? Some things we'd care about, others we wouldn't. Barney and Gregory developed "bad reputation" with Citadel, for instance.

>>24081603
"Do you happen to know where I could get some runes? Or what they did?"

>>24081698
I too would like a runed quicksilver shield. It is our husbando.

Also, if or more probably when we go into Sandover's slave trading shop, I'd like Peri to sneak in behind and steal any technological artifacts or blueprints she can find. We'll distract Sandover and get those tech to Stone Hall

>>24081603
>Do we know our own true names?

Anyone who did is now dead by Father or your own hand.

>>24081603
>"Runes? What kinds of things can those do, and can the Mage Guild help us with them?"

The most common is a light spell or at the most expensive is a rune that causes the weapon to jump to your hands from a distance. Having fire come off your sword is pretty, but a quick recipe for disaster or burnt armor. That's more of a Lightbringer trick. Anyway, you're looking for the Artificers, not the mages.

A rune for Clang gives you a bit more variety, but it depends on how you use the shield, and again, speak to Quentin and/or the Artificers.

A map...okay...Bronze Peak, inside, is an irregular circle. The center has the Manor Hall where the Mayor and the Paladins are. On the west side of the circle are the entrances to the different mines, which is a network of rope elevators, tunnels, and mine tracks. South end is the Grand Doors and the main area of residency. North side is the Grand Smithy, the Conclave/Artificers, the Guild Houses, and the Mage Sanctuary. East side is the exit to the peaks and the path of the Bear Shrine. That's also the entertainment district where Sandover's place, the Blue-Smoke cafes, and the 'Dragon Hunter's HQ' are located.

>>24081840
Is the entire city just... inside the mountain? What is providing light?

>>24081570

Two more questions from last thread:
"What do you know of the history of the Phoenix Empire?"

"Any problems around these parts? Anything in Bronze Peak that we could help with?"

>>24081768
On that note, some analysis of the Caligo Clarus emblem (our own and the version on Lea's back) would help.

>>24081840
> Anyone who did is now dead by Father or your own hand.

Likely true of Ssen; seems plausible that Mage's sister and others might know Mage's true name, on the other hand.

>>24081840
>>24081885
And are there unexplored areas of caves or mountains, or areas people don't tend to venture? (Seeking information on where dragons might *really* be.)

"Could you tell us any more about Crazy Ted?"

>>24081768
>"Do you happen to know where I could get some runes? Or what they did?"

Talk to an artificer or Quentin.

As for Quentin's reputation, he charges steeper rates than regular, and he's, in Ewing's words, "A bit of a Paranoid nutbag."

>"What can you tell us about the city and its culture? Particularly things a visitor might not know that everyone in Bronze Peak would take for granted."

Ewing doesn't know much about Bronze Peak history that's pre-Citadel Ages. After all, who cares about what happened before Citadel came?

>Is the entire city just... inside the mountain? What is providing light?

Yes, it's lit by a specifically cultivated luminescent fungus for this purpose.

Ssen: Mercilessly interrogate mage student to pass the time.

Mage student: Attempt not to break down at being trapped in a room with an extremely deadly monster girl and her holy hitsquad.

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>>24081840
>Bear Shrine

What does the Bear Shrine enshrine? What is it a shrine to, specifically?

I'm getting tired of questions, honestly.

How's maripari doing? I grow worried.

>>24081961
>>Is the entire city just... inside the mountain?
>Yes

"Is anything inside the peak of Bronze Peak, then?"

>"What do you know of the history of the Phoenix Empire?"

Not a thing. Ewing's knowledge of the Phoenix Empire is that it exists.

>"Any problems around these parts? Anything in Bronze Peak that we could help with?"

Nope, everything is fine, according to Ewing at least. Of course he's a kid who lives inside the Mage Sanctuary.

>"Could you tell us any more about Crazy Ted?"

"He's a nutjob." Ewing says. "He's convinced that a Dragon lives out there in the peaks, and that it's his destiny to find it, kill it, and mount its head on his wall. He goes out on the peaks once a month with anyone fool enough to follow him, and usually returns alone, covered in blood, dragging the carcass of something large and horrible with lots of teeth or claws, and the rest of his 'expedition' in their stomach." Ewing shudders. "His 'headquarters' is covered and willed with the stuffed trophies of his 'conquests.' The man talks to his hunting knives." He shakes his head. "But people still follow him, and usually it's just to the Bear Shrine and back, but don't follow him if he tries to take you into the Dark Peaks. That's where people die, save for him."

>>24082090
Peri/Mari walk back in to the sitting room. She has one of the old wizards at her side. She looks fine, if a little upset.

"Hello," The wizard says. "May I be the first to thank you all for allowing us to reas-"

"Short version is that eventually we're going to both go crazy." Peri/Mari snaps.

"Now now, dear. That's a very crude way of saying it." The wizard says. "First is that the process will take years, plenty of time for you to be returned to your body once the White Tree conclave fixes your body. The second is that it's hardly 'going crazy.' It's just a natural process."

Peri/Mari just huff in annoyance. It looks like they got told some bad news regarding their 'jump into willing bodies and live forever' scheme.

>>24082152
"Is this 'going crazy' in a literal way, or just something you'd rather not happen, like merging into one mind instead of two?"

>>24082152
"Well, hopefully we can find a cure for mari, then. Perhaps her mother's files had something? They were being transferred to this guild at some point, yeah?"

>>24082152
>"May I be the first to thank you all for allowing us to reas-"

"res-" as in "research?", or if not then what was he about to say?

>>24082152
well damn, I was hoping we would have someone from our original band that would/could live as long as us, at least in theory.

>>24082173
"Is this 'going crazy' in a literal way, or just something you'd rather not happen, like merging into one mind instead of two?" You ask.

"Got it in one." Mari says. She sighs. "Although, when that happens there's a good chance of a dissonance occurrence between the two minds as our chronological baselines get entwi-"

"We'll merge and it might drive us nuts." Peri says, interrupting.

>>24082207
Not giving up on that as a long-term goal. We've got decades, hopefully, to find some way to help Tricia and the others share our long life with us; none of that bittersweet "your memories will live on" stuff needed.

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>>24082207
yeah, I was actually really looking forwards to eternal peri/meri.

Oh well. Guess all our good friends are going to die around us. No biggie, right?

>>24082190
(Yes, I meant research)

"Well, hopefully we can find a cure for Mari, then. Perhaps her grandmother's files had something? They were being transferred to this guild at some point, yeah?" You ask.

The old wizard nods. "Lady Glenn was corresponding through our guild with several others here. Most notably the accomplished Cups Guild member, Mr. Jeremy Sandover."

>>24082223
"Chronological baselines? Something to do with your age difference, or your distinct perceptions? And, is there something that could be done to help them keep their own minds without separating them, or failing that to help them stay sane while merging? Some magical assistance, mental training, meditation?"

>>24082258
>The old wizard nods. "Lady Glenn was corresponding through our guild with several others here. Most notably the accomplished Cups Guild member, Mr. Jeremy Sandover."

"Did anything come of that research?

And, what were Sandover's accomplishments within the Cups Guild?"

"Well, I'd hate to have one of us at risk of going nuts. I we're going with the seperation plan then, peri, meri?

>>24082258
>>24082373
"Well, I'd hate to have one of us at risk of going nuts. I guess we're going with the seperation plan then, Peri, Meri?

Mari shakes her head. "We've got some time. I'm not giving up on this." Mari says. "They told us what was going to happen, and I understood it. More importantly, I know what needs to happen in order to stop it. All we need to do is to make sure that there's a way to ensure that our personal aura-thaumatics never have an equal resonance which-"

"English, kid." Peri says.

"Basically if we can find a way to always keep our..." She groans at using such an inaccurate and overly simplified term "Magical Hearts, ugh hated saying that...if we keep them from beating at the same time, then we're fine. But that's trickier than it seems. You know how people's heartbeats, and...other things...tend to sync up when they're close together, well..." She gestures with her hand. "Same thing, in order to maintain a harmony within ourselves, there must be a permanent dissonance."

"Poetic." The wizard says. "Well, I wish you the best young ladies."

"Did anything come of that research between Lady Glenn and Sandover?

"And, what were Sandover's accomplishments within the Cups Guild?"

The old wizard bristles. "That information was entrusted to us, and we pride ourselves on our confidentiality. The Paladins have always respected that, and have never forced us to reveal information. I can assure you, under holy oath, that none of the correspondence was about illegal research, magic, or about the intent to do illegal deeds.

As for Sandover's accomplishments, it's no secret that he's the foremost expert in beautification surgery and accomplished amazing leaps and bounds in the work of trauma rehabilitation. There are many Occuli soldiers who owe their peace of mind to him."

>>24082152
could you be clearer on what this "natural process" is?

>>24082403
"Okay, I don't really understand what that means exactly. So you two are going to be fighting more, now? For your health?"

>>24082403
"Maybe get someone whose specialty is poisons and toxins on her case, instead of or with sandover. She was poisoned, not maimed."

>>24082403
>That information was entrusted to us, and we pride ourselves on our confidentiality. The Paladins have always respected that, and have never forced us to reveal information. I can assure you, under holy oath, that none of the correspondence was about illegal research, magic, or about the intent to do illegal deeds.

"Of course; I did not know that the information was shared in confidence, and I certainly would not request that you break such confidence. Paladins certainly keep confidences of their own. We simply wish to find anything we can about how to help Mari and Peri; we greatly appreciate anything you can share with us without violating a confidence."

>>24082441
This; we want to know exactly what it is Mari and Peri need to do to stay sane, and if there's anything that can help them other than their own force of personalities.

>>24082441
"Okay, I don't really understand what that means exactly. So you two are going to be fighting more, now? For your health?" You ask.

"Don't get her started, short answer is no." Peri says.

"Well, actually, the more we come into conflict with each other it does create more dissonance, but too much can cause a physical collapse and-"

"We agree too much, our minds break down, we fight too much, our body breaks down." Peri says. "See, was THAT so hard?"

"But they don't understand why!"

"They don't need to. YOU just want to feel smart!" Peri snaps.

"Alright, alright." Mari sighs.

"Look, we want to help any way we can." Mage says.

"I have an idea, actually...but it's not urgent and the artificers aren't going anywhere." Mari says. "Plus I'd like to go through it a few times in my," She shakes her head. "In my head."

"Funny." Peri says.

You smile at your friends as they start plotting to help Peri/Mari with their scheme of immortality, and turn back to the wizard and Ewing. "Of course; I did not know that the information was shared in confidence, and I certainly would not request that you break such confidence. Paladins certainly keep confidences of their own. We simply wish to find anything we can about how to help Mari and Peri; we greatly appreciate anything you can share with us without violating a confidence."

"She is related." Ewing says. "Sort of."

"Yes, Mariana Glenn is related to Lady Glenn, but she isn't here. I don't want any trouble from Sandover, or from Lord Holting."

"Hold up." Mari says. "Lord Holting? As in Darius Holting?"

"Yes, he's Lady Glenn's cousin."

"Yeah, I know who he is." Mari says. "He's the guy who owns half of the crops that feed Citadel. I went over to his estate when I was seven for a party once. I knew we were related."

"Well, he's the executor of her estate. He's the one who's been pay-asking the Occuli and the investigating Paladins and the Guilds to keep this whole matter of her death quiet."

>>24082713
(pay-asking heh, cats out of the bag.)

to our party
"Perhaps we should visit this Lord Holting also."

>>24082767
Hey man, money talks.

>>24082713
>"Well, he's the executor of her estate. He's the one who's been pay-asking the Occuli and the investigating Paladins and the Guilds to keep this whole matter of her death quiet."

"I see. And is the matter of her death something shared in pay-confidence?"

I can understand why he wouldn't want the knowledge that his Cousin was trying to steal anothers body.

>>24082767
"Perhaps we should visit this Lord Holting also."

"He lives in an estate that's between White Tree and Citadel." Mari pauses.

>>24082713
"Well, is that all we can do for her here then? No more procedures or prodding until we get to the artificers? I suppose I'll try to break it up if you get into a fight, or get too chummy. Is that right?"

>>24082779
The question is Why he wants the fact of Lady Glenn's death under wraps, and why he is bribing people to keep it so.

I can understand not wanting others to know how she died, but not the fact that she is in fact dead.

>>24082790
"I see. And is the matter of her death something shared in pay-confidence?"

The wizard clears his throat. "I couldn't comment on that, not without a representative of the Conclave Jurists present."

Ewing frowns and looks very very uncomfortable.

"Now, unless you have more business with us Paladin Serpent, then I thank you for your time. Ewing will show you the door."

Ewing looks at you with deer in the headlights fear.

>>24082832
It might be an interesting diversion, but we should look into it while we are laying low.

Are we laying low right now? It doesn't feel like it.

>>24082838
"Well, I can't think of much else. Do be sure to reward your ward here, he's proven to be informative enough."

Then, to ewing,

"Lead on"

>>24082796
"Well, Mari, Peri, if there's something we can do to help you stay as together or as apart as you wish to be, please, let us know. Just don't keep it to yourself too long; if something's wrong, ask, before it's too late."

>>24082838
> The wizard clears his throat. "I couldn't comment on that, not without a representative of the Conclave Jurists present."
To the wizard: "Thank you, I appreciate what you've been able to tell us, and not tell us."

To Ewing, on the way out the door: "I would not ask your guild to breach any information shared in confidence; with that in mind, can you suggest where we might start looking if we wished to talk to people who might be more...talkative, other than Sandover himself?"

>>24082838
Do we know about the Conclave Jurists? Is he hinting that he wouldn't comment on that without the equivalent of a barrister, or is he hinting about who *we* might want to talk to?

>>24082838
"We appreciate your help in this matter, good luck to your research."

Follow Ewing out the door, and out of earshot of the wizard.

to Ewing
"We appreciate any help we can get in helping Peri and Mari, but it is still your choice."

>>24082882
"Well, Mari, Peri, if there's something we can do to help you stay as together or as apart as you wish to be, please, let us know. Just don't keep it to yourself too long; if something's wrong, ask, before it's too late."

"You got it." "No problem, boss."

"Thank you, I appreciate what you've been able to tell us, and not tell us. Do be sure to reward tour ward here, he's proven to be informative enough."

You turn to Ewing. "Lead on."

As you follow Ewing to the door you put a hand on his shoulder. "I would not ask your guild to breach any information shared in confidence; with that in mind, can you suggest where we might start looking if we wished to talk to people who might be more...talkative, other than Sandover himself?"

"Remember that smith, Quentin?" Ewing says, looking around to make sure no one is watching. "You may want to look into his sister, she's a potter, does a lot of porcelain work for him...or did. Not sure what happened. That's all I got." He whispers. "Be careful. Whenever people go poking into Sandover's business, weird things happen...accidents and stuff." He doesn't want to say any more as he bows low to you as he opens the door.

>>24082934
>Do we know about the Conclave Jurists? Is he hinting that he wouldn't comment on that without the equivalent of a barrister, or is he hinting about who *we* might want to talk to?

Yeah, he's saying he's not saying anything more without a lawyer present.

>>24082971
And by
did a lot of work for him' I'm talking about Sandover. Quentin's sister worked for Sandover, or used to, at least.

>>24082971
"Thank you, Ewing. I appreciate you prioritizing Peri and Mari's health above other concerns."

>>24082971
OK, I'd suggest that even though we're close to Sandover, we ought to visit Quentin first. We're better off visiting Sandover well-armed with information.

>>24082971
And if something happened regarding Quentin's sister and Sandover, that might explain Quentin's paranoia, as well as giving us something we could help Quentin with, perhaps in exchange for information, or blacksmith work and quicksilver.

>>24083008
sandover is the one with the LARGE LETTERS SIGN

THAT SOLD WHAT WE THOUGHT WAS LOVE SLAVES

yeah?

>>24082971
Bow back, take your group and leave.

"So, who wants to go investigate a blacksmith with a bad reputation? Or do we have any more pressing business I forgot about? There's so many things to keep track of these days."

>>24083042
Yup, and he has apparently been doing so for quite some time. So, rather than charging in playing the indignant Paladin and not getting what we're after (which at this point is at least three different things, counting the Mari/Peri information, his involvement with the Dramatae, and stopping whatever illicit behavior he's up to), let's first find out more about him, Quentin, and Quentin's sister.

Further background on Sandover and the Cups Guild:

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/24016922/#p24020642
>"He was part of Cups, but he left when he got rich enough." Gregory says.

>"Doing what?" Tricia asks.

>"He developed the technique for that." He gestures to Tara's face. "The guy would go on and on about the merits of beauty and how people who were pretty, or smarter, or 'better' deserved to have the world give them things on that virtue alone." Barney shook his head. "Asshole thought that I was using some of my inventions wrong. Jerk."

>>24083132
Yeah, we should visit the blacksmith and his sister, chat them up about this.

Though we should really at least visit the shop at some point soon, I am so curious. Like not looking at a train wreck.

>>24083078
The blacksmith is rather high priority now I would say, and multiple birds with one stone.

see about quicksilver/runes
getting info on Sandoval
possibly help Quentin or his sister.

I say we spend some time getting Barney's bicycle in running shape, then possibly contriving a magical engine for it. Then we get Lea a suit of light armor and a beetle-like mask so she can be samurai strong style.

>>24083243
Are we trying to lay low right now? Is this us trying to lay low?

Or are we working fast to find a solution to the citadel problem?

If I knew which we were doing, it'd help determine long term goals.

>>24083159
Quentin's place is nearer to the mine entrances. It's a small place with a medium sized smoke-less forge in the back. The dwarf in question is carving something into a block of metal, as you approach, you see that it's a mold.

Quentin is a clean shaven person, his head's shaved as well. His skin looks almost greyish in the fungal light, covered with spots and lines from wrinkles, age, and a lifetime of small burns and cuts from his craft. He has on a pair of spectacles and he's chewing tobacco, spitting into a basin at his feet as he works. Some of the brown stuff has dribbled down his chin. He's got a lot of stone tokens on strings hanging around his house and work area. They're small stone circles with a dwarven rune carved on them.

>>24083280
so, he's a shaved dwarf? That includes the beard? There goes my theories on heat deflection in smiths.

Is there a door to knock on or something, or are we just barging in here?

>>24083280
Let's open with something less unexpected than his sister and Sandover. "Good afternoon! We were told you were the right smith to talk to about getting work done in quicksilver?"

>>24083280
Knock on the doorframe
"Hello, are you Quentin?"

"I am SSen, the Paladin Serpent, and I have heard that you work with quicksilver and runes.

>>24083349
This, but can we drop the title and let him notice the obvious? Comes across a bit pretentious for us to call *ourselves* that.

>>24083362
>>24083349
yeah, I don't feel right using it ourselves.

>>24083280
>Beardless dwarf
>EchoGarrote, slayer of stereotypes
Don't know why I didn't see this coming.

>>24083386
now now, dwarves sometimes have no beards. Especially in universes where their beard oil hasn't evolved to be immune to flame yet. Smiths especially.

>>24083257
We're not exactly laying low, as if we could, but we're in no position to charge headlong into the Citadel problem anytime soon. Our biggest clock on the Citadel problem is the ongoing quest of the Lightbringers, but we need to find some way to combat both the Dramatae and Citadel's own power. Bronze Peak is the target of most of our leads on that so far: the lantern coins, Tallow, dragons, the pointer from the Fifth in a dream...

>>24083386
Is this a common thing for dwarves, in Bronze Peak or generally, or is Quentin unusual for doing so?

>>24083362
>>24083384
yea, reading it again it sounds meh, cut the paladin serpent part.

>>24083337
"Good afternoon! We were told you were the right smith to talk to about getting work done in quicksilver?"

The dwarf looks up at you and blinks in surprise, and then goes back down to his work. "I do not work for Citadel Paladins." He takes one of the stone amulets hanging around and rubs it with his fingers and he mutters something under his breath.

For some reason you think of your 'May Citadel's eyes see only His Light...' prayer.

"Please leave, I wish to have nothing to do with Citadel."

>>24083485
Good thing I'm not a "Citadel" paladin.

>>24083485
"Would it change things at all if I told you I was a paladin of the light? Or perhaps I could give you my version of that prayer."

>>24083485
Pull out our amulet. "You and me both. There are still Paladins in this world bringing Light to the Darkness."

>>24083485
*Sigh knowingly* "You and I both. I am of the Caligo Clarus. We're not the most populous order, but we tend to keep a clearer head than the other orders about Citadel and its subtle darkness. Have you heard of us by any chance?"

>>24083510
I like this, as well.

>>24083510

Let's be more direct about it. Dwarves have previously been characterized as being straightforward people.

Seconding >>24083526.

>>24083526
this but leave out the direct mention of Citadel's Darkness.

>>24083560
True, as long as we remain circumspect about the topic of Citadel having a mind of its own with people who don't necessarily know that.

>>24083569
How about this then:
"You and me both. I am of the Caligo Clarus; we're not the most populous order, but I serve the light first and foremost. I am not here on behalf of Citadel."

>>24083627
(Plus getting out the medallion when we talk about the Caligo Clarus.)

>>24083627
much better, dont exactly want to drag him into the Citadel mess, as it could endanger him and his sister if he does not already know about it.

>>24083627
"You and me both. I am of the Caligo Clarus; we're not the most populous order, but I serve the light first and foremost. I am not here on behalf of Citadel."

Quentin frowns and narrows his eyes. "I wondered why Citadel would allow a monster to become a Paladin." He opens the gate to his forge and lets you inside. "I assumed that you were just the first. That soon there would be a wave of monster children, raised in the ways of Paladins, or Occuli, or whatever nonsense that the people Citadel find pleasing to them. Humans protected by their pious monstrous protectors. The attractive looking ones at least." He spits tobacco out. "Maybe that's just what will happen after it's dealt with you." He sighs. "Nothing changes." He waves his hand. "You are here for Quicksilver, yes? I don't give discounts."

>>24083732
That is fine, may I know your prices?

>>24083732
"Quicksilver, runes, and information, all of which I'd assume you hold in high value."

>>24083732
"Quicksilver, and to learn what you could do with runes for my shield. No discounts is fine with me."

>>24083732
"I wouldn't dream of it. By the way, this may be an odd question, but you wouldn't happen to have ever known a Liam Patrick would you?"

>>24083785
the "i wouldn't dream of it" is in reference to the point about discounts.

>>24083732
Also: "I care little for what the people of Citadel find pleasing. And I do not appreciate being called a monster, not when there are far too many in this world more deserving of the title, many of them the 'attractive' ones Citadel seems to care for."

>>24083785
Definitely worth asking.

>>24083761
"Quicksilver, runes, and information, all of which I'd assume you hold in high value."

He motions for you to hand him your ranseur and Clang. He examines them both for a while, and then hands them back to you, and has you go through a few practice swipes and block, then he takes them back and nods.

"I'll recast the blades of the ranseur, but the pole's already ideal, I wouldn't put any runes on it, maybe a light rune to reduce your need for torches. As for the shield...the whole thing needs to be melted down and recast. The alloy is cheap, and another four or five hits and the rivets to the handle will split. Also you will need to set a rune of spell warding into it, in order for you to even have a chance against a decent spell caster. All of it in proper quicksilver, and you'll want it by tomorrow I assume? Of course you will..." He spits again and puts in a new wad of tobacco into his mouth. "600 gold now, 600 on delivery."

That would leave you all with about 210 gold between the five/six of you.

>>24083870
"Out of curiosity, what of that is the runework, and what is the quicksilver?"

>>24083785
"You wouldn't happen to have ever known a Liam Patrick would you?" You ask as Quentin returns you weapons.

"Course I do, the man who killed the last dragon. He's famous. I also made him a blade once." Quentin says.

>>24083900
Perfect. "He also happens to be my father. And as for the blade..."

>>24083870
Clear it with the others first, make sure there's nothing they immediately need before spending this on ourselves.

>>24083910
..."it has served me very well as well; your work saved my life many times over."

>>24083916
Let's finish talking with him before we do business. Hopefully this conversation can lead towards Sandover and his sister before it comes back to purchasing his services.

>>24083900
"A quicksilver sword?"

if yes
"It served Father, and us, well."

>>24083900
>the man who killed the last dragon
And we're definitely going to want to hear Quentin's account of that story.

>>24083938
Business talk should be predominant, I think. Dwarves don't fuck around.

>>24083945
I like this; much stronger and more direct than my own suggestion.

>>24083898
"Out of curiosity, what of that is the runework, and what is the quicksilver?"

"The rune work is 300, the quick silver is 800, the last 200 is the fact that you're getting my work and not mass produced crap that the people of Citadel think passes for 'dwarven quality.' Ugh." He spits again. "As if race had anything to do with quality. My best apprentices were a human and an elf and I was trained by a human. Quality is quality, race doesn't matter." He spits again. "But people just have to say that a short-leg touched their sword in order for them to think it's worth more than cutting salted meat."

"I agree. Liam Patrick happens to be my father, the blade you made has saved my life many times over."

He nods. "Which one? The Quicksilver blade or the one made out of that singing metal?" He puts another wad of tobacco in his mouth and wipes his filthy face with his sleeve. "I was always proud of Beacon, but that other one was a work of art." He's frowning as he speaks of it though.

>>24083945
>us
Despite the many voices guiding her, Ssen is still singular, since that's a direct quote.

>>24083972
>He nods. "Which one? The Quicksilver blade or the one made out of that singing metal?" He puts another wad of tobacco in his mouth and wipes his filthy face with his sleeve. "I was always proud of Beacon, but that other one was a work of art." He's frowning as he speaks of it though.

"The quicksilver blade. I only learned of the Lantern metal and the ill-fated sword of it more recently." Show him the Lantern coin.

>>24083973
realized my mistake about 10 seconds after I posted.

>>24084001
this.

>>24083972
"The Quicksilver one.That singing metal seems like a blessing and a curse, doesn't it?"

>>24083972
By the way, we talked starting at http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/23903769/#p23904428 about melting down the sword to enhance the shield and ranseur, but reading your posts in that thread, it isn't clear if we actually did so or just talked about it; I don't see anything in that thread describing us getting that work done.

>>24084001
>Sidenote for the lantern metal:
We have one coin's worth, why not make it into a tuning fork just to see what happens?

>>24084001
"The quicksilver blade. I only learned of the Lantern metal and the ill-fated sword of it more recently." Show him the Lantern coin.

He takes the Lantern coin and examines it. He even listens to it ring. He nods. "Yes. This was the stuff." He shakes his head as he hands it back to you. "I'm sorry to hear that the blade I made from that didn't end well. There's something..." He shrugs. "It wasn't right. Not the blade, but there's something about that metal." He spits. "But I cannot tell what, it's as if I'm looking for a flaw that doesn't exist except in my mind.

"Either way, are my prices agreeable?"

"If you're taking this out of our funds Ssen." Lea says. "Next time we want personal stuff, you don't get to say no when we leech from your Paladin stipend."

"Also, it means YOU get hunting duty for the next road trip." Tricia says.

>>24084066
Assuming normal coin sizes, that'd be a really tiny tuning fork, and a really high note.

>>24084064
I thought you decided to not do it, and to leave Beacon at the Lighthouse back in Stone Hall.

>>24084071
modern coins are far smaller, in general, than those of yore. Originally, a coin's worth was more direct, being a uniform lump of a precious metal. Nowadays they're smaller by far since they just represent a nebulous value backed by national standard. So this lantern coin is probably larger than you're thinking.

>>24084081
Yeah, we did.

>>24084069
"Hunting duty? I love hunting duty! You've got a deal." grin

>>24084081
I thought we'd decided not to do it as well, but I definitely don't think we talked about leaving it behind; I assumed Ssen would carry it with us when we traveled, just not on her person, much like the lantern.

>>24084069
"Give me a moment to consider it. In the meantime, I'm also looking for some information, which I'd value quite highly as well. I've heard that you have some information about a certain Mr. Jeremy Sandover. We were looking into him as well on another unpleasant matter when we heard that you'd had some bad business with him in the past."

>>24084069
To the gals: "Done and done. I'm sorry if I've seemed stingy in the past, by the way. And as for hunting duty, Trish, I needed some alone time with Clang, anyway."

>>24084117
(In case it's not clear, I'd like to find out his business with Sandover both because we want the information and because he might be interested in our services in handling the problem, which he might be willing to barter for. Let's do that before we decide to pay him almost all of our money.)

>>24084120
"Done and done. I'm sorry if I've seemed stingy in the past, by the way. And as for hunting duty, Trish, I needed some alone time with Clang, anyway." You say.

"I can't believe I'm jealous of the alone time you spend with an inanimate object." Tricia mutters.

"Maybe you should save her life more." Mage says.

"I DID!" She snaps.

"Clang?" Quentin looks at the shield and nods. "I've heard far worse names."

"Before I give you the money and my weapons, I'm also looking for some information, which I'd value quite highly as well. I've heard that you have some information about a certain Mr. Jeremy Sandover. We were looking into him as well on another unpleasant matter when we heard that you'd had some bad business with him in the past."

Quentin shakes his head and spits. "I've got nothing to say about the flesh peddler. My sister and he had an argument over the cost of their work, that's all. The accident was just that, she's recovering nicely in the Cups Guildhouse. I've got nothing more to say about the matter." He points to his warding stones and your Medallion. "Do you understand? I do not have any vocal complaints about Jeremy Sandover."

>>24084195
...That bad, huh?

>>24084195
Yup. Citadel likes causing trouble for anyone who complains about Sandover.

I had thought we were already on hunting duty.

Also, how much is even our paladin stipend? How often does it refresh?

>>24084234
>Also, how much is even our paladin stipend? How often does it refresh?

500 every two weeks, collectable at any major city by the commander of whatever Occuli force is there.

You've been slightly skint than normal, even after the long caravan trip, because you've been letting Paladin Avery use most of it to help Stone Hall.

>>24084195
*Nod of legitimate solemnity and concern* "I understand completely. Maybe I'll find some written grievance. Somewhere. Failing that, I may find my own reasons to abhor the man, considering the umbrage I take at the grotesque nature of his business and practices."

>>24084195
>Quentin shakes his head and spits. "I've got nothing to say about the flesh peddler. My sister and he had an argument over the cost of their work, that's all. The accident was just that, she's recovering nicely in the Cups Guildhouse. I've got nothing more to say about the matter." He points to his warding stones and your Medallion. "Do you understand? I do not have any vocal complaints about Jeremy Sandover."

"I understand. We spoke to some people earlier today who had dealings with him regarding the death of Lady Glenn; they had no vocal complaints or thoughts on that matter though. We were planning to talk to him later today. Unrelated to that, is there anything we could help you with?"

File: 1365230761649.jpg-(77 KB, 725x986, 28563 - bw polearm ranseur.jpg)

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>ranseur
>look it up
Holy shit, why did nobody tell me we were a badass

>>24084266
Utter the prayer before we say this.

>>24083972
We should probably say our anti-Citadel prayer at this point. Might have been great to have said it before declaring we didn't work for the Citadel in it's city.

Ask about the possibility of turning the Sword into the ranseur blade + shield. Also ask about his sister. Finally, ask writer he'd like a change of scenery.

>>24084281
>>24084282
Yes, definitely hold the medallion and say the prayer at this point before anything else.

"May the Light blind the eyes of malice, and may its ears hear only his Teachings."

(Also, perhaps we should visit the sister before heading to Sandover?)

>>24084312
we probably will. Though I am itching to look at the fleshitaurium.

>>24084282
I think he's reforging the ranseur and shield with a supply of quicksilver. There's no need at all to destroy Da's sword for this. Although yes we need to get him to stone hall.

File: 1365231027616.png-(403 KB, 610x900, Slow Drawfag Ssen - edite(...).png)

403 KB PNG

>>24083870
>>24084270
>ranseur
speaking of this, I hope this is ok but I modified the Ssen picture a bit to change the spear to a ranseur.

All credits to Slow Drawfag for the original image.

>>24084321
He probably wouldn't even destroy Beacon considering he made it in the first place.

>>24084344
Another valid point. Hell, I'd never ask any smith worth his salt to do something like that. Any piece of work worth wielding/wearing is something the artisan poured his soul into crafting.

>>24084195
"Don't worry, Tricia, You, me, and clang can make this work. Together."

>>24084261
When we spoke to Avery, it seemed more like we just declined to collect much of it from him and the Stone Hall coffers, since he was short on the funds. Did we explicitly donate the remainder to Stone Hall, or are we still entitled to the remainder?

Incidentally, given that Sandover had Quentin's sister, a potter, doing porcelain work for him, and some of the things his signs said, it sounds like there's something more unnatural (and yet perhaps less objectionable) going on there than a simple "pet" store.

>>24084402
As long as it isn't like this. http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/22791214/

>>24084295
"May the Light blind the eyes of malice, and may its ears hear only his Teachings." You say.

Quentin nods and says something in the Dwarf Tongue.

"I understand completely. Maybe I'll find some written grievance. Somewhere. Failing that, I may find my own reasons to abhor the man, considering the umbrage I take at the grotesque nature of his business and practices."

Quentin shakes his head. "The sick thing is that he takes excellent care of his 'employees' and gives them good pay, pays for doctors, provides care for children, never lets their 'clients' hurt them and you hear all about how he pays for education and how a lot of the senior guild maesters were old employees of Sandover." Quentin shakes his head. "But there's something horrid underneath it all. I just know it, and I know it had to do with my sister's masks."

"Masks?" Peri asks. "I thought she was a potter."

"She is, hold on." Quentin leaves and goes into his house, he comes back out with a beautiful porcelain mask it's of a face with dwarven features, there's something so...elegant about it though.

"Perfect golden radio of features, and a subtle spiral curvature staring from the nose." He says with the pride of a craftsman admiring another's work. "Notice how the curve of the cheek bone is identical in shape and in perfect proportion to the curve of the upper eyebrow, a perfect example of what a beautiful face should be." He frowns and scowls at it. "Every dwarf who works for Sandover has this face. It's the same with the elves, human, and the handful of 'rescued' monsters. They're perfect, and in exact proportions. I know that its tied to my sister's work, but I don't dare ask how. I'm thankful she's still alive."

You look at the mask again, you feel slightly cold as you look at the blank eyes of exact proportion, and you recall the masks of the Dramatae.

>>24084344
It's not about destruction, it's about reprint something old into something new, keeping things as good as before.

Beyond that, it's not in our combat style to use it.

I understand about keeping it, though.

I think we're going the harem route

Tricia, Clang, Ranseur, and dad's sword. The elven bow watches from the bushes.

>>24084466
its a mask of a puppet, in a play. I've seen such work before. Let me guess all of them act like Sandover thinks they should act. May the Light protect them.

... I don't think we should confront Sandover in his shop. Let him confront us when we are with the Old One.

>>24084466
>You look at the mask again, you feel slightly cold as you look at the blank eyes of exact proportion, and you recall the masks of the Dramatae.

Oh hell.

>>24084517
This sounds very promising.

>>24084482
Repurpose something, not reprint.

>>24084491
Filthy elven deviant. Shoulda known he was kinky when the bowyer said he was double-bent.

>>24084466
"You know, that's more a bit more unsettling than what I had thought was going on here. Do you mind if I get your sister's take on this? Knowing is the first step to doing, or some contrivance like that."

>>24084466
Shiiiiiii. We have got to get to his sister now and figure out when he is going so we can stop the death of the dragon.

>>24084517
>... I don't think we should confront Sandover in his shop. Let him confront us when we are with the Old One.

This is also rather strongly suggesting that the masks themselves have a lot to do with the power of the Dramatae:

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/24016922/#p24029211
> "Because it's not well known or as easily used." Ewing says. "Reversing a spell is where a person seizes control over a person's magic and instead of breaking control, turns it around. So in your case, you can either dispel and break free, or you reverse it and inflict the hold spell upon the caster."

> "Well, how do you do it?" Tricia asks.

> "That's the tricky part, it's a True Name magic. You need the name of the caster, the name of the spell, and if the caster has an artifact or a staff or a wand or whatever, you need to gain control over it for a moment. Then at that point, boom, the mage's power is now yours and they're held prisoner by their own power. It sounds simple..."

I'm thinking the masks are the Dramatae's "or whatever".

>>24084466
Black and vile. The root of this sickness will be revealed and purged.

Fuck, that's creepy.

>>24084466
"Well, quentin, it looks like you've given me a reason to stay in this city a while longer. I look forward to when you've finished my weapons."

>>24084466
>how a lot of the senior guild maesters were old employees of Sandover

I didn't catch this before: perhaps a certain wizard or other Mage Guild folks among them?

>>24084603
On this note, make sure we have something with which to arm ourselves while he works on our gear, just in case. Possibly a loner from Quentin, if he'd be so generous.

>>24084571
They probably also draw power from the concept of the Name too. It'd make sense that Peace is the strongest since Citadel /is/ peaceful, even if dull and non-innovative.

One concern: if we take the time to enhance the ranseur and Clang now, we won't have them when we start seeking out the Old One, unless we wait until tomorrow for that.

>>24084618
Something tells me the Dramatae are more beholden to their own symbolism than they'd like. Rage self-destructed, for instance.

>>24084647
I think we could wait ONE day.

I mean, we're still shedding.

uh oh. We had nicely forgotten about that.

Do we have to roll itch checks now?

>>24084647
we wont set out till tomorrow, we still need to talk with Quentin's sister, check in with the local Paladin, and find an inn to sleep at, not to mention find the crazy dragon hunter.

... I wonder if dragons can Polymorph.

>>24084667
We could have him start on the ranseur, and use Beacon and Clang when we seek out the Old One.

We also need to talk to Tallow.

>>24084690
>>24084703
Good point, we've probably got a day worth of talking and research to do. And we should visit the Conclave and its library as well. OK, fair enough.

>>24084618
Watch us become a new Dramatae, Ain't-Having-With-This

>>24084546
"You know, that's more a bit more unsettling than what I had thought was going on here. Do you mind if I get your sister's take on this? Knowing is the first step to doing, or some contrivance like that."

"I don't think that would be wise." He sighs. "She's been..." He gestures with his hands. "She doesn't have any arguments any more, and she's very happy." He sighs. "So she sits in her room at Cups, working on new designs for Sandover."

"You know," Mage says. "We could always use a good smith at Stone Hall."

He nods. "I heard that, and I've seen a lot of the other people who have had difficulty here move to there...but I can't leave without Rachel. I'm sorry." He sighs. "I tried to reach her, to shame her, held my pendants by her, I even prayed to your Light...but Sandover has too strong of a grip. He needs her, I think, or he's like a Dragon, refusing to let anything of his go."

"I have a brief question." Mari says. She takes out Beacon from the group's packs.

"Oh, hello..." He smiles as he looks at the blade. He nods. "Someone's been taking care of you, no rust, no stained blood, no nonsense engraving or hatchmarks, just sharp...good."

"I was wondering...could we save some money on the quicksilver if you took that sword and...well...reconstituted it?"

Quentin stares at the blade. "That is a risky thing, I've already treated and shaped this metal...but this is metal that knows how to be a weapon." He licks his lips and looks at you. "Your ranseur wouldn't just be your spear anymore...it wouldn't be yours to name, either. It would be Beacon, and I know its let you use it before, but it will be much more...fickle...now that you will be wielding it for yourself, and not in your Father's name." He nods. "But yes, I can do it. It is after all," He hands it back to you, "Just a piece of metal. I'll drop 100 gold off of the price."

>>24084733
>100 gold
Oh man

that could feed a lot of hungry hungry hobos.

Is it still our dad's keepsake if we make it into a spear?

>>24084733
"You speak as if Beacon had a mind of its own.", spoken as a question.

In any case, no, let's not do this. It might have made sense before, but to put a price tag of just 100 gold on how much it would save, and given that we'd still need 700 worth of quicksilver...no.

>>24084733
Oh, and an actual question for echo.

Do we know our family emblem? Could that be placed on the spear in any way?

>>24084777
I thought most of the quicksilver was going to the shield? Which is why our ranseur would be beacon, but our shield will be clang.

>>24084733
>wielding it for yourself

As a paladin, we should avoid this.

>>24084733
Personally I'm against doing anything to that sword. No price is wroth destroying it. Lets face it, that's what people are suggesting to do to it. It would no longer be the fathers sword, it no longer be the keepsake it was or should be.

>>24084777
"You speak as if Beacon had a mind of its own."

He shrugs. "It doesn't. It's just a piece of sharp metal, but...well...you know how it is, how some things or places just have their own feel to it. How one man's wagon never sits as right to another? I know that's just because of the wear and tear to it, people molding things and places to themselves, but sometimes...you have to think there's a bit more. That, or you've just had too much to drink." He spits.

Quentin doesn't know the real truth about Citadel, he's achingly close, but he thinks it's a trick by Sandover and whomever he works for. But he's gotten closer than anyone else has on their own.

>>24084733
>Leaving without Rachel
"We've dealt with things like this before. If you could craft a Pendant or amulet like this one", show him or holy symbol," we may be able to snap her out of it."

> Reusing the blade for metal
It's not worth it, harem route all way.

I wonder what a bit of Lamia blood would to to Quicksilver.

>>24084814
>harem route
It's a bit more expensive, but the results are spectacular.

>>24084815
We should have asked Scheherazade if Lamia blood had any special properties to it, guess that will have to wait till the next time we go to Stone Hall.

If a city can have a spirit why not a blade? And if a blade has a spirit why not the First Lantern.

I wonder if we can talk to either. Might be an interesting thing to try out.

>>24084733
>"I don't think that would be wise." He sighs. "She's been..." He gestures with his hands. "She doesn't have any arguments any more, and she's very happy." He sighs. "So she sits in her room at Cups, working on new designs for Sandover."

So. Much. Hate.

Also, "Do you believe you could learn anything from studying this coin? [the Lantern coin] Perhaps see the flaw you mentioned before, or whatever it is?"

>>24084814
This seems like a really good suggestion for him; he might take it seriously.

I don't think we should outright tell him the truth about Citadel, but perhaps we could tell him about the Dramatae, and their interest in Sandover?

>>24084814
Pretty sure he tried already. We might be able to give it a go ourselves though.

>>24084781
>Do we know our family emblem? Could that be placed on the spear in any way?

I wrote up the complicated heraldry of the Patrick family a while back, but Father mostly used the Caligo Clarus emblem because he felt that was more of what he 'was' than that of being known as a 'Patrick.' Apparently Patricks were well known through the ages as monster killers, no other family has more confirmed Dragon kills to their name than yours. (They never did it alone, of course, but they were one of the few noble families who were present and lived to tell the tale.)

>>24084814
I don't think Dad would want us to get too silly about all this. Part of our Oath and our cause is welcoming change, no matter how frightening it may be. We ought to reforge Beacon to meet our needs as a matter of principle. It will always be Beacon, but it will not always be a sword.

>>24084865
A fair and valid point.

>>24084865
That's very compelling.

"I'll take you up on that; not because I want to save on the quicksilver, but because I want Beacon to live on, in a new form. Change is part of life. And I would not wield it in my own name, or my Father's, but to bring Light to the Darkness.

Those light runes you mentioned seem rather fitting for a Beacon; are they on all the time, or can they be dimmed and extinguished for stealth?"

>>24084907
Good point, Stitcher.

>>24084842
Also, note to ourselves. When we meet the Old One, do not, NOT, under ANY circumstances, give our family name when we introduce ourselves. Dance around it as much as possible. NO dragon would trust a Patrick.

>>24084907
>>24084865
I am wondering if the light runes can be made to work with the clarigo in any way.

like, in the center or at the tips or something?

A constant shape amidst the change would be nice.

>>24084931
We're a paladin. If asked, we can explain that it was our Father who taught us compassion.

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>>24084931
Not even a Patrick covered in scales?

Beside, we still kill monsters.

>>24084836
>I don't think we should outright tell him the truth about Citadel, but perhaps we could tell him about the Dramatae, and their interest in Sandover?

Putting concrete words to this suggestion:
>>24084808
"It sounds very much like your sister and Sandover's 'employees' are acting out roles in a play, like actors wearing masks. Are you familiar with the Humors, the Dramatae? There's a set of sorcerers going around playing those roles, as well, wearing masks of the Dramatae."

>>24084931
Indeed. There'd be a certain irony if it turned out the "last" dragon he killed was this Old One's father. We're so going to end up adopting a draconic brother (or sister).

>>24084946
>inb4 Old One calls it Stockholm syndrome
>laughingdragonsluts.jpg

>>24084956
we had better pray the last dragon Father killed was not the Old One's wife/son/daughter etc.

>>24084815
>I wonder what a bit of Lamia blood would to to Quicksilver.

Lamia blood/venom is the WORST thing to work into a weapon. It's designed to break down things like armor, and skeletons, and such.

>>24084907

"I'll take you up on that; not because I want to save on the quicksilver, but because I want Beacon to live on, in a new form. Change is part of life. And I would not wield it in my own name, or my Father's, but to bring Light to the Darkness.

"Those light runes you mentioned seem rather fitting for a Beacon; are they on all the time, or can they be dimmed and extinguished for stealth?"

Quentin nods. "Of course, actually...your Father never showed you how to use this?" He asks. He taps a certain pattern onto the quartz stones in Beacon's pommel, the blade starts to glow with a pure white light. He swings it around a few times, and the glow intensifies, then he taps out the same patter and the glow fades away to nothing. "They say that when your Father swung this, it was as if he held a shard of the sun in his hands. That foes would be blinded by the sight alone." He sighed. "These runes haven't been used in a long while though, from the wear that I can see. I guess he thought that they had stopped working."

You certainly don't remember that sword ever glowing, not even your earliest memory of it, covered in your parents' blood.

Beacon only glowed for the first time in ages when people were talking about recasting it as your new weapon. Of course, Father had been defeated, demoralized, and thought the magic had long run out, and runes have been known to be fickle on occasion. So make of it as you will.

>>24084963
I think, given our history, it'd still be something we have in common there. As long as we get a chance to talk before the dragon decides it wants a Patrick handbag to hold its gold.

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>>24084963
It was its parents.

>>24084974
Swing Beacon around a bit with its new glow, and ask out loud: "What do you think, Beacon? Do you want to go on serving the Light, as a spear?"

>>24084974
Not actually suggesting this, but it struck me as funny: "So, five hundred now, and sick sister...er, six hundred on delivery?"

>>24084974
With the 100 gold off for the sword, if we can pay him 500 now, we could call that us spending our Paladin stipend (which we should go get), and hopefully we'll have made some progress on our goals here in Bronze Peak by the time we go to pay him the 600 tomorrow.

>>24084974
"Well, it seems we've come to a resolution on that. Do you happen to have a loaner weapon I could use, or should I go be a tourist for a day?"

We still have our bow. Back to the beginning.

>>24085012
Curing his sister is for getting them the hell out of dodge for now, and later discounts/weapon buffs for endgame.

>>24085053
Yep. Bow and us.

Us and the bow.

We should really use it more, but we keep getting into close quarter ambushes.

Since he can hardly work on both of them at once, perhaps we should ask him to start on the new Beacon, and drop off the shield later this afternoon/evening, so we can carry it and the bow around for now?

>>24085039
"Well, it seems we've come to a resolution on that." You say as you hand Beacon, Clang, your Ranseur, and 500 gold.

"Thank you, and until I'm done. Here." He hands you a scimitar and a shield. "Loaners. I used them when I worked with the Caligo Clarus when I was young and had more teeth." He spits into his spitoon. "Course I was never a true member, I hold true to the older ways, the ways of the Silent God." He points at the warding stones. "For a God that does not Speak is the only one that should be Listened to." He says as he shrugs. "It's more poetic in the old tongue."

>>24085128
"You know, I was going to visit the bear shrine to learn more about all the various gods and spirits there might be. It's interesting stuff. Was the silent god widely worshiped at some point?"

>>24085128
Echo, what about him making a Claigo Clarus Pendant for his sister? >>24084814

>>24085128
>For a God that does not Speak is the only one that should be Listened to.

Wise words, in light of Citadel's whispering. Almost tempted to say something like "I certainly prefer gods that don't try to speak to their followers directly and influence them."

Serious suggestion: "As far as I'm concerned, the Light takes many forms, and all those who do good works are its allies, whatever the name of the one they pray to. I'm certainly honored to have you working on the new Beacon, and speaking as the only members of the Caligo Clarus at the moment, I'd certainly count you among our numbers.

Could you tell me a bit more about the Silent God and the older ways?"

>>24085172
It wouldn't work. Unlike the earlier possession of the Dawnchasers which was just passive Citadel, there's someone else directly blocking anyone else getting through. Sandover has to be dealt with before Rachel has a chance to return to normal.

"You know, I was going to visit the bear shrine to learn more about all the various gods and spirits there might be. It's interesting stuff. Was the silent god widely worshiped at some point?"

"By the Dwarves, yes." He nods. "The First Lightbringer and his army were the first ones to collect the Words of Silence. Actually, they predate the Teachings, since humans took written language, the first uniform written language from the old Dwarven runes...at least until the Citadel Ages began, then the tongue changed and so did the words." Quentin says.

>>24085128
(Echo, could we get some stats on the loaner scimitar and shield, compared to the current state of Clang and the ranseur?)

>>24085060
Yeah, after we get things sorted out here, quicksilver armor and weapons for everyone.

>>24085172
Related to that, His Illuminated Self told us at our paladin ceremony:

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/23847432/#p23852144
She gently takes your Medallion from around your neck, and then sets it in the middle of the small silver plate that hangs from a glittering chain. "You may remove it, or reset this as you will." She says as she places the mantle around your neck.

>>24085214
> "By the Dwarves, yes." He nods. "The First Lightbringer and his army were the first ones to collect the Words of Silence. Actually, they predate the Teachings, since humans took written language, the first uniform written language from the old Dwarven runes...at least until the Citadel Ages began, then the tongue changed and so did the words." Quentin says.

"Interesting; we've found precious little information about the First Lightbringer and the time before the Citadel Ages, as well as the fall of the Dragon, and the Lantern. If you're up for it, we'd love to hear any tales you might know."

>>24085214
"Words of Silence?"

>>24085180
"As far as I'm concerned, the Light takes many forms, and all those who do good works are its allies, whatever the name of the one they pray to. I'm certainly honored to have you working on the new Beacon, and speaking as the only members of the Caligo Clarus at the moment, I'd certainly count you among our numbers.

Could you tell me a bit more about the Silent God and the older ways?"

"To speak to the Silent God, go down into the depts of the deepest tunnel, where there is nought around you but darkness and the earth, close your eyes and then listen, pick out your heartbeat and breathing, pick out the sound of water dripping, or rocks tumbling, pick out the sounds of the moving earth deep below, and pick out even the sound of the air and the little things that are within in. When you have achieved that kind of silence...then listen,

"And in that silence, God will speak."

Quentin lets the moment hang for a moment. "The rest are parables and lessons that are similar enough to your Teachings. There are minor details, and older laws, but those were written for ages when things were different. Humans respected the Light and what came to them when they saw what was beyond what there was to saw, my people respected the silence and all that it encompasses once everything else has been set aside." He shrugs. "Something to make us feel a little less alone when we are in the Darkness, right?"

>>24085214
>>24085233
Yes, asking for tales is entirely within what we came here for.

Also,

"Or, if you don't know the most of the old tales, is there a place I could find them recorded? And maybe a person who could translate them?"

>>24085256
"You said before that my father killed the 'last' dragon. Does the term 'Old One' mean anything to you? We're not entirely convinced that there are no dragons left, and we've heard fairly specific information about one somewhere in Bronze Peak. If that were the case, where might we start looking?"

>>24085233
>(Echo, could we get some stats on the loaner scimitar and shield, compared to the current state of Clang and the ranseur?)
Clang currently as steel: +1 (same as loaner)
Steel Ranseur +2
Loaner Scimitar +2 (No pierce/sweep/constrict/whip combo)

Beacon +2 (+2 To all combos & every hit on you or from you causes Beacon's Light to shine brighter, 5 points brighter you can use Beacon's Flare)

Clang v.2 +2 AC

>>24085300
well, at least we're using a scimitar. Those are almost stereotypical to snake people for no real reason.

After we ask the smith about the ancient stories, we're pretty much done here and can see about his sister, yeah?

And then, after that no doubt extremely painful encounter, we can perhaps look to an inn and perhaps do our one thing not-related to stopping omnipresent cityminds a day. Probably hang out with tricia.

>>24085300
Thanks!

>Loaner Scimitar +2 (No pierce/sweep/constrict/whip combo)

Presumably because Ssen has not practiced enough with it to do anything simultaneously with both it and her tail?

> Beacon +2 (+2 To all combos & every hit on you or from you causes Beacon's Light to shine brighter, 5 points brighter you can use Beacon's Flare)

+2 *and* +2 for combos, for a total of +4?
>>24084865
Good call, anon.

>>24085300
wow beacon is going to be rather badass against the tough opponents.

>>24085355
I think he means +2 for the ranseur strike, and +2 for the tail action.

>>24085290
>"You said before that my father killed the 'last' dragon. Does the term 'Old One' mean anything to you?"

"It's a Dragon Title. It means about the same as 'Liberator of Stone Hall' means to you. Something to be used to make others impressed by you." He shrugs. "I'm no Dragon expert. Why do you ask?"

"We're not entirely convinced that there are no dragons left, and we've heard fairly specific information about one somewhere in Bronze Peak. If that were the case, where might we start looking?"

"Theodore's always looking for some fools to go off searching the Dark Peaks for a Dragon he insisted he saw once." He sighs. "The man's half mad, but he's one of the few I can trust in this place to not be...complacent. I think it's his obsession and desire for the hunt that keeps anything else from seeping into his mind. However, if there was a Dragon hiding around here, it would be in that maze of crevices and caves that are the Dark Peaks."

"Also, if you don't know the most of the old tales, is there a place I could find them recorded? And maybe a person who could translate them?"

Quentin sighs and shrugs. "I would recommend the Conclave, but I don't trust that place. There's a library in the Bear Shrine, though. It has some very strict Occuli guards to 'preserve' it, most people are forbidden to so much as enter. However, as a Paladin, you might actually be allowed access." He nods. "If there's anything worth reading, it's there...if it's survived all these years."

>>24085366
>I think he means +2 for the ranseur strike, and +2 for the tail action.

Ah, that makes sense, and that's actually even more helpful; +2 to wrapping or other tail actions would help us greatly, especially given the dice of malice.

May His Light smite the dice of Dark 1s, and may its face show only 20s.

>>24085377
"Anything else you could tell us about the Dark Peaks?"

And after that, since it doesn't sound like we should visit his brainwashed sister, I think perhaps we should visit the Bear Shrine next. Either that or the local Paladin.

>>24085377
Oh, one other question: "Any advice for dealing with dragons if we should come across one? Stories or lessons from olden times, or from my own family's history?"

>>24085407
I say local paladin. The bear shrine is an all day outing, it seems like. hike there takes until midday from morning, hike back will wipe out the rest of the time.

>>24085407
"Anything else you could tell us about the Dark Peaks?"

He nods his head. "I went out there with your Father and the Caligo Clarus once. Tallow had a compass with him, and that was how we got through the place. It's a labyrinth at best, and a death trap the rest of the time. If Citadel and it's sister cities have a feel, then Dark Peaks have another one, and it's bloodthirsty and full of hate." He shudders. "Do not go without a map, and even then, not one that's been made longer than a month ago."

>>24085441
Seems like the land spirits are alive and well, in some places. Just localized entirely.

>>24085431
Good point, and if we're going to use our influence as a Paladin to get in, we might want to check in first.

>>24085441
"I don't suppose you happen to have such a map, or know where we could get one?

Tallow we know of, and hope to speak with while we're here. We've been told that he was the one to find the Lantern coins, among other things. Anything we should know before we meet him?"

>>24085441
Another malignant genius loci. Fantastic.

>>24085441
>compass
Where might we get one of those?

>>24085461
At least this one is just straightforward malice, without the pretty trappings of Citadel.

>>24085476
>>24085461
Yeah, it will probably throw things like starvation or hungry wyverns at us. Not painters questioning which we like better.

Also sorry for leaving this a lot to you story stitcher, I usually make more suggestions, but I'm sick today.

>>24085441
"Well, you've helped us greatly. I think if you give us some help on where to find a map and a compass, we'll be out of your hair."

>>24085458
"I don't suppose you happen to have such a map, or know where we could get one, or a compass?" You ask.

Quentin spits as he starts to work on the metal. "Ask Tallow, if you believe his addled mumblings. Man's a blue-smoke addict, your Father's the one who had any faith in him. He got us out of those Peaks alive, I'll give him that, but nothing more."

He waves his hands. "Now ladies, and gentleman, I want to get Beacon and Clang done on time, so please...go amuse yourselves elsewhere and leave me to my work. I'll have a runner sent for you when they're done."

Okay, so

- - - Manor to see Paladin Balles (Pronounced BAY-ELS please DON"T mix that up)

- - - To Cups Guild House to see Rachel of the Masks, Quentin's sister.

- - - Go to Sandover's House (Now with theme song! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71K9-1Jwxfk )

- - - Go talk to Crazy Ted

- - - Go find Tallow

- - - See what it takes to go to the Bear Shrine

- - - Anything else.

First to four votes, nothing's time sensitive, as you probably guessed, Quentin's is the only place that has a clearly visible clock. There are a few here and there in the City, and a large one in the Manor, but you have to actively look for them, and the manor clock's been broken for a while.

>>24085546
>- - - Go find Tallow
Compass and map sound interesting. Not to mention more people that knew pops.

>>24085546
I think we should check in with the paladin. We've been in his city for almost a day now without checking in, I'm sure that's against procedure or code or politeness or something. we didn't really stick around in citadel long enough for them to have a chance to get any paladin training or whatever in us.

I wonder if we could get pocketwatches in this city?

I doubt it. Probably will have to wait until stone hall.

>>24085546
>- - - Manor to see Paladin Balles (Pronounced BAY-ELS please DON"T mix that up)

might as well introduce ourselves, would be sort of rude to not do so on our first day here.

>>24085546
I am growing more creeped out about sandover's house the more I hear about it.

I am pretty sure we are basically going to be going into there in full combat gear. As politely as possible.

>>24085546
> Quentin's is the only place that has a clearly visible clock

His sister, or the visit we just made to Quentin?

If you mean the former, then her, definitely.

I don't think we want to visit Sandover right away, and if Quentin's sister isn't urgent, not her either. If we're going to get into the Bear Shrine, let's talk to the Paladin about that first. Seeing Tallow about the coins is not time critical, and likewise seeing both him and Crazy Ted on the path to the dragon.

I'd vote we go ahead and check in with the Paladin (and ask about the Bear Shrine there), then see the Conclave.

>>24085595
this isn't a vote, I'm just musing.

>>24085597
>> Quentin's is the only place that has a clearly visible clock
Blargh, I completely misread that sentence, and realized it from context as soon as I posted. Nevermind.

So: Paladin, Conclave, Bear Shrine.

>>24085601
So what is your vote, since it isn't for Sandover?

>>24085674
it's this
>>24085571
I don't think we quite have enough votes total at this point in the day. Oh well.

>>24085682
Yeah, I think perhaps the full complement of active trips and anons for this hour have voted; we have three for the Paladin and one for Tallow.

(I wonder if the mapmaking anon is still around?)

>>24085685
You counted me twice there.

>>24085693
oh, I am the mapmaking anon.

I figured we didn't actually need a map for this one.

Do we need a map for this one?

>>24085693
yea noticed, hence deleted, so far its 3 for paladin, and 1 for tallow

>>24085682
i dont think we have more than 4 or 5 people left, it is 5AM on the east coast

>>24085606
>>24085597
>>24085582
>>24085571

Paladin Balles does command the Red Occuli but he is an Amber himself. It looks like Ambers are often left in charge of the administration, and like Avery his office is filled with paper and assistants as he takes the pain and woes of making a city work.

Unlike Avery who, even when Citadel had a shred of control, had the place in a sense of systematic chaos, Paladin Balles (Who has a pronunciation guide to his name on his desk) has a world of pure order.

And labels.

Everything is in it's proper place, and everything has a label or a tag to it. Even his aides have name tags. There are no errant pieces of paper, and no scuff marks on any of the immaculate desks. The only sound is the scritching of quills, and the occasional flutter of paper. Balles looks like a man completely at peace with himself as he sits the center of this world of labeled order and quiet precision. He has a small glass...thing...on his desk. It's a small bird that dunks its bill in water as it rocks back and forth. It's obviously from the Phoenix Empire, and it fits in perfectly here.

"Arrived: Paladin Ssen Patrick, and her retinue. Classification: Caligo Clarus. Purpose for attendance to Paladin Balles (Pronounced BAIL-ESS) presence is requested." He says, dictating to a young woman who's writing down every thing he says. She even notes the time when he takes a sip of water.

There are actually multiple clocks in Balles' realm, one on every wall and one ornate one on his desk. All of them ticking loudly but in perfect sync.

>>24085707
A map for Bronze Peak based on
>>24081840
and subsequent details would be awesome, if you're up for it. A city is a lot harder than the overworld map, though.

>>24085693
We might want to visit Sandover's, possibly right after the Paladin. Echo did mention something about visible timers (although visiting Tallow might help too).

>>24085717
Well, I admire your dedication to precision. It's a bit too well ordered for my taste, but we each have our place, don't we?

>>24085717
>everything labelled
>piles of clocks
>basically a robot
I sort of like this guy.

"I'm here to check in, and meet the local paladin. I figured it was only polite to inform you I'd be in the city a while, and that I plan on investigating the bar shrine library, if it is at all possible. I want to avoid unnecessary surprises and all."

>>24085717
He's probably been to see Sandover, then.

>>24085729
one will probably appear during tomorrow's thread, then, assuming we're not already out of bronze peak by that time. I'd make it right now, but I'm running on fumes until echo eventually passes out. I look forward to lamiathon weekend.

Oh dear god, we've entered a bueracracy. Tread lightly otherwise you could get tied up in red tape for years.

Tell the man that you've come to tell him you will be in or around the city for at least several days and that you are expecting to collect your paladin stipend within that time. You wanted to give him advance notice. It is also deemed polite to introduce yourself to the reigning Paladins when in their territory as to help keep things orderly and the chain of command in tact.

>>24085717
>Red Occuli
>In a place of perfect order
Oh god we have a class 10 crazy motherfucker on our han-

>He's an Amber
Oh phew. For a second there I thought he was some kind of mad warrior-philosopher who decided that the only way to truly appreciate the perfect chaos of fighting is to immerse himself in perfect order whenever he's not fighting.

>>24085717
...creepy. I'd think it screamed "Citadel" if not for the clocks everywhere.

"Greetings, Paladin Balles [make sure to pronounce it exactly as he did]."

>>24085746
Nice; that should appeal to him.

Let's also ask him about our stipend.

>>24085734
No, that was the same mistake I made; Echo was talking about who had physical clocks on display.

>>24085546
>and the manor clock's been broken for a while.

After the incident in the bar/inn on our way here, I think we should ask if there's something we could do to help repair it. Keeping things ticking along smoothly, and all.

>>24085717
>Clocks
>Clocks everywhere
I think this guy knows something about Citadel, guys.

I think we're going to wind up decking ourselves out in SO MANY HOLY SYMBOLS. It's obvious the ticking clock is a symbol of some sort of order spirit. Our order's symbol for the light. Each of them ward off the citadel in some function.

>Make the lantern coins into a gigantic grandfather clock

>>24085746
"I'm here to check in, and meet the local paladin. I figured it was only polite to inform you I'd be in the city a while, and that I plan on investigating the Bear Shrine library, if it is at all possible. I want to avoid unnecessary surprises and all."

"Noted." Balles says. "A request for access to the Bear Shrine Library. Clarification requested for the purpose of this access? The Library is a area filled with rare items that are quite fragile. Also, to add a humorous note, off the record please, where the Paladin Serpent goes, there tends to either be chaos or miracles or fire. I'd hate to have such a priceless treasure destroyed by your mere presence. Even being here risks an incident." He takes a breath. "Ah, amusing." Oh by His Light, this is a guy who doesn't laugh. "Resume recording, as stated before, why do you need to see the Bear Shrine Library?"

>>24085789
Well, no reason not to tell it straight.

"Research into the specifics of the founding of my order, along with what happened before and after. There are numerous blank spots in the records I've seen."

>>24085789
There has been something about my encounters at Stone Hall that hint that something in motion and there might be clues from before the founding of Citadel. The ghoul leader was acting very strangely and it worried me. I wish to find out more and most people do not know much from before citadel was founded. All I really know is the origin story of the Caligu Clarus and nothing in between it and the Citadel's original founding.

>>24085789
"I'd like to do some comparative research on some of the older religions and how they compare to the teachings of the Light. I believe finding some of the common ground will help me understand better how to relate to others of different faiths who still do good in this world. I also have reason to believe they might have information on the history of the Caligo Clarus. I can assure you that I will take the utmost care around the treasures there, and I do not wish to bring any trouble there. If any should happen to find me, I shall guard the Shrine and its wisdom to the best of my abilities."

>>24085816
telling the truth but not the whole truth!

>>24085789
>>24085801
plus
"There are also rather glaring blank spots in the abilities of Dragons, and a number of other subjects which I wish to clarify."

>>24085820
That's what I was going for as well, but with even less mention of Citadel.

>>24085826
That seems like a bit more information than we really want to share at the moment. Or do you think there's some value in telling him we're interested in dragons, in a city where the Official Story is that the last dragon was killed years ago?

I like when we can provide a lot of dialogue for echo to choose from.

Sometimes, questions prove to be hard, and dialogue runs dry, replaced with discussion.

>>24085837
Yes, killed years ago. By our father.

And we're looking into the history of our order.

>>24085837
wont stay secret long once we talk to or follow Crazy Ted on his search for a dragon.

also we have a personal interest in the abilities of Dragons, seeing as our last name is Patrick, and our father supposedly killed the last one.

>>24085801
"Research into the specifics of the founding of my order, along with what happened before and after. There are numerous blank spots in the records I've seen.

"There has been something about my encounters at Stone Hall that hint that something in motion and there might be clues from before the founding of Citadel. The ghoul leader was acting very strangely and it worried me. I wish to find out more and most people do not know much from before citadel was founded. All I really know is the origin story of the Caligu Clarus and nothing in between it and the Citadel's original founding.

"I can assure you that I will take the utmost care around the treasures there, and I do not wish to bring any trouble there. If any should happen to find me, I shall guard the Shrine and its wisdom to the best of my abilities."

"Admirable." He says. "Completeness is how we can achieve better understanding of His Light. Please begin the process to give me the forms to allow me to start the forms to grant Paladin Ssen and her company the ability to fill out the forms to enter the Library of the Bear." He says. He waits for a bit, and then grins. "Ah, amusing. You'll excuse my joke. I am aware that I give off a certain kind of mannerism what with the way I keep my office." He nods at his girl and she goes to get a piece of paper. Balles signs it and stamps it five times. "Done." He says.

>>24085856
OK, that's a good reason for an interest in dragons, sure. I'd just like to avoid *any* mention of the Old One or that we're looking for a *living* dragon. Wouldn't want to upset the well-oiled machine of his city.

>>24085863
>"Ah, amusing. You'll excuse my joke. I am aware that I give off a certain kind of mannerism what with the way I keep my office."
I like this guy already.

>>24085863
Thank the man, this wasn't as bad as I thought it might. Ask if he wishes anything else of us, other then that we shall be on our way.

Tallow Ho!

>>24085879
same

>>24085863
>hear the beurocrat talk
Oh god jump out the window ssen escape
>haha just kidding!
Oh. Oh okay.

"Oh, you had me going there for a moment. I've never been the best at the paperwork. Thanks for being cordial and efficient. I will be taking my leave if you don't have any new business for me. Oh, and it goes without saying, but I am available to help if any disasters happen pop up somewhere during my stay here. What you mentioned about chaos and fire wasn't so far off the mark. It's really quite tiresome."

>>24085863

"Thank you, Paladin Balles. If it would not be too much of an imposition, I'd also like to pick up my stipend. I avoided collecting my stipend while in Stone Hall, to spare the coffers there while they rebuilt, but with Bronze Peak being remarkably intact and running smoothly..."

...I just had a horrific thought.

In many media, dragons can shapeshift, most often into human form, yeah?

And that hunter guy, he takes would-be dragon hunters out up into the mountains, and is usually the only one to come back alive, yeah?

And he's been doing this for so long that noone believes his rambling about a living dragon, yeah?

>>24085879
He is like the ultimate straight man. I hear him in a sort of ben stein voice.

>>24085908
of course he's a dragon.

Good thing we really want to talk to a dragon, not hunt one.

>>24085908
exactly what I thought, which is why I wanted to research their abilities in the Bear Shrine library

>>24085898
>I will be taking my leave if you don't have any new business for me. Oh, and it goes without saying, but I am available to help if any disasters happen pop up somewhere during my stay here. What you mentioned about chaos and fire wasn't so far off the mark. It's really quite tiresome.

This sounds good to close with (after we ask about the stipend), plus "But the miracles kinda go along with the package, to counteract the rest. Just don't ask us to file an 'application for forms for enactment of miraculous chaos-fire countermeasures.', please."

>>24085909
>I hear him in a sort of ben stein voice.
His Light, now I can't un-hear it.

>>24085908
Good way to get rid of anyone who might want to *hunt* a dragon. How might he react to someone who pointedly does not want to *hunt* one, but just wants to meet and talk to one?

>>24085898
"Oh, you had me going there for a moment."

"Ah, amusing." Balles says. "I am quite well known for my sense of humor. Your Father and Paladin Graves always accused me of being more of a clown than a Paladin."

The dictation girl smirks and continues to write things down.

"I've never been the best at the paperwork. Thanks for being cordial and efficient. I will be taking my leave if you don't have any new business for me."

"Noted, and I thank you for following protocol." He says. "You make your father quite proud with your actions."

"Oh, and it goes without saying, but I am available to help if any disasters happen pop up somewhere during my stay here. What you mentioned about chaos and fire wasn't so far off the mark. It's really quite tiresome."

"I would imagine so." Balles says. "That would be quiet upsetting. I wish you the best in your travels."

"Thank you, Paladin Balles. If it would not be too much of an imposition, I'd also like to pick up my stipend. I avoided collecting my stipend while in Stone Hall, to spare the coffers there while they rebuilt, but with Bronze Peak being remarkably intact and running smoothly..."

"Of course," He nods at the woman. "Please recall the records of Paladin Ssen and her stipend. This sadly, will take a bit more paperwork. Money always seems to cause more to emerge." He sighs. "Please also inform Paladin Avery that I am required here, and that there's no force of power, aside from His Light Himself, that could make me go down there."

"That was not a joke." His dictation girl says.

I think the wall of perfectly-ordered clocks means that Balles is so orderly that Citadel doesn't have as much influence over him as it thinks.

He's literally too mechanical for Citadel.

>>24085984
citadel doesn't work on robots.

This may or may not be because robots are beneficiaries of some type of order-spirit.