Coral Gate held many surprises, some good and some unfortunate.

The good was that the lamia you saw had an elder sister, still a girl herself. Their mother had recently passed away and they were happy to go with their new 'Auntie.'

Also, one of the Mer, a girl named A Mistake After Too much Absinthe' aka Abby (spelled D-A-N-A) decided that she had enough of serving under the rule of 'King' Paladin Trevor.

The unfortunate surprise is that Trevor, in his blind quest of hate against Citadel, sent the majority of the Mer who lived in Coral Gate to campaign with a new champion: the 'Fallen Lightbringer' Adhan. Trevor had no idea of what Citadel really was, and no knowledge of the Dramatae or any idea of how he was playing straight into their hands. Their target was the Leviathan, the giant ship that hung just outside of Stone Hall's docks.

The Leviathan has enough firepower on it to level Stone Hall to the ground. Not to mention that there's been no end to the rumblings coming from Citadel, about how they are dissatisfied with Stone Hall and Bronze Peak's new behaviors. All they need is a good excuse, and the army of Citadel will be knocking at the city's door.

You scrounged up a small ship, took Dana and the lamia girls, Ssai and Ssah, with you, and set sail. You took a quicker, but far more dangerous route, hoping to beat Adhan and his army to the city.

Your trip through corals, riptides, and rapids proved to be too much for the good ship Kassat, and a nasty crash saw your mast snap off and fall into the depths of the ocean.

Thankfully, with some quick actions, some judicious magic from Mage, and a large amount of properly treated seaweed, you were able to turn the Kassat's sail into a massive kite, and you blew your ship back into harbor, six hours before the deadline.

The lamias have been dropped off with Granny. The sun is shining, and the water is sapphire blue. It's a beautiful day...and in less than five hours, it's all going to go to the Darkness.

Welcome back echo. Hope you had a good rest.

What's first on the agenda now? Check in with p/meri at the manor?

>>24708279
We should talk to the other former lightbringer whatever her name was, and tell her than Adhan is coming and she might be needed.

Also we need an ending theme for season 2

>>24708327
the other lightbringer is in bronze peak. no way we can get there.

>>24708353
I thought she was in stone hall.

>>24708327
No time... its several days away with Nightmare and she was left behind.

I think we should get those barley sticks first, before we forget about them. Then perhaps simply walk the streets of Stone Hall. Breath in the reason we fight.

>>24708312
no, no, I remember.

First on the agenda:

Go to the candy shop.

>>24708365
nope, bronze peak. Running a hair salon.

Aww yeah here we go.

First up is picking up bribery candy

Something occured to me overnight that made me facepalm. Doesn't the book of Leviathans have extensive maps of tides, weather, coastlines and all that lovely oceanic stuff?

Taking a few minutes to peruse it probably could have saved us quite a bit of trouble in the rush to sail to Stone Hall.

>>24708467
I knew about the hair salon but I thought it was in Stone hall. Oh well.

Yeah first is finding some of that candy

>>24708492
I don't think we kept it with us.

>>24708492
.... it might have gotten us another bonus to ship steering, but that wouldn't have saved Dana or Mage.

>>24708492
Nah, we left it at the Lighthouse. Greg has them all.

>>24708403
The man behind the counter of the store is a little confused as to why the Paladin Serpent is in his shop, purchasing some penny candy.

"Are you sure you don't need anything else?" He asks, very confused as he wraps up the barley sugar sticks in wax paper.

Tricia nods as she munches on some honeycomb. The fact that she doesn't seem to mind at all that there's honey dripping down her hands is also weirding the clerk out.

>>24708366
>I think we should get those barley sticks first
This, then make sure that the city defenders are prepared for the attack should we fail and it gets past us.
The others did warn Paladin Avery when they went for our stipend right?

>>24708561
It's complicated paladin stuff, please don't inquire further.

>>24708561
Its for someone who has been in a slump for a while. Apparently its his favorite and I hope to cheer him up.

Thank the shopkeep and lets go on to the next order of business. Maybe see how Dana likes our home.

>>24708582
We can check on that at the lighthouse. If they aren't back yet we'll head to the Manor anyway.

>>24708561
We should try something and possibly bring some to Granny and the kids later on if it's good. But what..?

>>24708612
Agreed. Lighthouse then Manor, if Peri/Mari are not there.

so, I've been thinking of sending a message to the titan, to prevent it from shelling stone hall in the confusion if we happen to fail:

"To the captain of the Leviathan-

Greetings, and I hope you are found healthy in these strange times. I write to you about matters of great import. There is a military force advancing by sea upon stone hall, which will arrive within the next ten hours. I will be leaving to conduct peace talks immediately after sending this letter, the failing of which means I will be captured or killed. This means that if I fail, the defense of stone hall falls to you and the local militia. Please assist in defending the city in any way that you can, if the worse comes to pass. I apologize for making your day markedly less relaxing, and I thank you for protecting the fine peoples of this land.

-Paladin Ssen Patrick"

Y/N? It would perhaps increase mer casualties, but it would decrease stone hall collateral. Think about it.

>>24708659
Fuck no.

>>24708642
Simple, Ssen just needs to think of things she loves to eat that could be put down to being a Lamia, then buy some.

Another thread started as I'm going to bed, hope it's here in the morning (or the thread is active at least).

>>24708612
"Its for someone who has been in a slump for a while. Apparently its his favorite and I hope to cheer him up." You say as you pay the man for the candy.

The three of you look out the window when you hear a series of bells. The shopkeeper frowns and looks at you. "That's the evacuation alarm." He says. "Is...is this another drill? I know Paladin Lord Avery fines people who don't follow, but there wasn't one scheduled for today." He looks at you. "Is this...is this just a surprise drill?"

It's a little sad that the people of Stone Hall know the feeling of fear so well. You can see it on the man's face.

anyone else have trouble posting?

>>24708642
Granny seems to be stuffing their faces with meaty goodness. Best not to spoil their dinners

>>24708728
Today has felt a bit sluggish for me. might be cus I have 3 different threads open at once.
>>24708716
I've only recently come back to the city, I am not aware of anything that is going on. Rest assured that I will do all in my power as a Paladin to keep the city safe.

>>24708716
"No, there's an army of Mer coming this way. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to give their leader candy."

>>24708716
That's an important question. I don't think we know the answer, do we?

>>24708716
"I'm not sure. I'll have to speak with Paladin Avery about this. For time being I would follow what you've been told to do during such times."

Change of plans. Head over to Manor is or where ever Avery would be leading from.

>>24708769
Remember we're trying NOT to start a panic here.

>>24708769
He doesn't need to know that, we don't want to cause panic

Guys, hold up a second.

It's not a drill, because the Leviathan know the mer are coming.

The whole thing's a complete setup, not just the false leader for the mer, but also the attack itself. They're going to walk in there and they're going to be slaughtered.

Alternatively, the Leviathan's not going to do shit, and the mer will raze Stone Wall (ostensibly a Citadel-loyal city) to the ground.

>>24708834
Stop just stop. Can we please not jump right on to the crazy train from the word go.

>>24708834
Either way, we need to stop that army before people start dying.

Or, The Leviathan will have some "difficulty" with getting started until the mer are in the city proper, at which point they will begin shelling the city as a "Neccessary sacrifice for the good of citadel as a whole"

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>>24708881

Since when does the Leviathan care about 'Danger Close'...

>>24708716
"Here's praying that that's all it'll end up being. For now, We must ask that you follow procedure and put your practice to use."

Maybe we can pay for him to take some candy along with him and give away to any panicing young along the way? Morale needs to be kept up, and seeing the children happy helps people keep hope.

>>24708907
exactly

>>24708834
Plz lets skip the paranoia for now, thread isn't even an hour in...

>>24708778
"I'm not sure. I'll have to speak with Paladin Avery about this. For time being I would follow what you've been told to do during such times."

The man nods and goes to get his family so they can get down into the tunnels.

You and Tricia make their way to the Manor, you see Peri/Mari there waiting for you, and a squad of Occuli leaving.

"Avery's sounding the alarm." Peri says. "He's also mustering the troops and sending a message to the Leviathan, as well as Bronze Peak and the other coastal towns. I told him we're going to try to talk them down, we'll get our chance...but if the Mer come into the bay with weapons drawn and without us, the Leviathan's got orders to fire upon them." She sighs. "Other than that he's ordered evacuations, and mustering the Red Occuli to arms to be ready. I'm not sure if this is a good thing or not...but I think he's still putting on armor or sending ravens. If you want to talk to him." Mari says.

>>24708961
>leviathan brain
>skip the paranoia
good luck!

>>24708986

Seems like Avery's got the home front covered. Let's stop that army!

>>24708986
I'm not sure that Avery has any more to tell us, we should get our diplomacy going before everything goes to hell

>>24708986
Avery is a competent Paladin. He's got it under control. Right now we need to stop those Mer

To the army. Time to try talking Adhan out of his stupor.

>>24708986
"No time for a chat, if he's willing to give us a shot, then we best get on with using it."

Mayhaps we could acquire one of those flares, and when we spot the warband, we fire it off to possibly halt their advance? Approach with the party behind us, and no weapons drawn. keep the shield up just in case of arrows or projectiles of any kind.

>>24708986
"no, that's good enough. It wouldn't be fair if one side was dressed for battle and the other wasn't. We still need to stop it though. Let's make haste to the boats, avery can handle the defense.

>>24709100
The flare could be seen as a hostile action

>>24709127
Seconded. Perhaps we should get a few flares?
We fire one off if everything goes to hell, two if the situation is under control?
Extra flares are in case some get waterlogged.

>>24709374
Diplomacy list:

Flares
Sugarsticks
Shield
Whiskey
snacks

am I forgetting anything?

>>24709374
So, one for a "go ahead and attack", two for "things are all good", and three or four extras?

My apologies for the question, but what's the ettiquite about names and trips in here? This is the first time i've been in a thread since it starts, and I'd like to know if I should just stay anon throughout.

>>24709479
Trips are only useful if you are a writer or someone with knowledge. Or if you want to be a bad-roll scapegoat.

>>24709479
I've been anon since thread 1.

>>24709479
If you use a name everyone pays attention to you and Echo gives you special privileges and the only thing you have to give up is your dignity.

>>24709116
"No, that's good enough. It wouldn't be fair if one side was dressed for battle and the other wasn't. We still need to stop it though. Peri/Mari, can you get some flares, just in case?"

Peri nods, and runs inside, then she comes back out after a little while with a few signal flares.

"I got these and told the Occuli. They said that one means open fire, two means all clear." She says. "They said that they'll be watching for our signal."

"Okay, let's make haste to the boats, Avery can handle the defense. If he's willing to give us a shot, then we best get on with using it."

You head down to the docks, and have a pleasant surprise there waiting for you...well...semi-pleasant.

"Hey Sexy Scales." Isen says. He's in his full armor, and Tara's behind him with her large iron club. "I'd love to chat and flirt, but we've got an army to rout."

Dana and Lea are there, along with a, still tired looking, Mage. She shrugs. "He was at the Lighthouse, and he insisted on coming."

"Also, I have a ship." Isen points to the schooner that's being made ready for sail.

"It's a very nice ship." Dana says.

"Oh this isn't anything my sweet Mer maiden." Isen says smiling at Dana. "When this is over, you'll have to see my entire fleet. I'm sure you'll be impressed with my mainmast."

Dana looks at him and frowns. "Huh. Is he aware that the female Mer reproductive organ often contains sharp needles and hooks that are used to extract the male reproductive organ? Because I was not aware that Human physiology was similar to Mer's in that parts of the body can grow back after being removed."

Isen goes pale and just walks away from Dana.

You all look at Dana. She winks. "Because if he is aware of that, please inform him that it's just a rumor...at your own time." She says quietly.

Tara laughs and slaps Dana on the back. "That was totally hysterical." She sighs. "So, umm...do you have a plan or something like that?" She asks you as you all get onboard the C.S.S. Audacious.

>>24709540
"We're going to give the terrible leader of the fell army some sugar sticks.

Then set him up with a date on his girlfriend."

>>24709540
I like Dana. She's great.

>>24709540

>need more flares to signal all clear than to attack

Calling it now: all but one of the flares gets waterlogged.

>>24709536
Hey, you. Check your privilege.

>>24709540
Diplomacy time

>>24709536
Oh lovely, I gave that up a long, long time ago.

>>24709540
The plan is to head out, and meet them before they can begin doing any kinds of damage. Try and convince them to stop the attack, and hopefully even pull the leader out of his citadel-haze.

>>24709588
Oh god, why u giving EG ideas?

>>24709540
When he leapt at the poison kiss I thought Isen's audaciousness was impressive, but now he's turned away just by a hook-lined vagina? Pathetic.

>>24709540
"Talk, talk some more. Hope talking works. If talking fails... Well, I'll use my fist to get through to them. Oh and penny candy."

>>24709626
look, he's a bit traumatized from the poison kiss.

He didn't think that one through.

>>24709626
A hook and barbed vagina that will tear his dick off.

>>24709626
This is his dick we're talking about

>>24709652
He'd kiss a snake dripping with venom and not that? Jeez Isen.

>>24709626

Temporary vs. permanent damage. The man knows his limits.

>>24709652
Yeah, but it's only a dick. Lamia poison is well known to slowly and painfully melt all your bones until you die. Even we were surprised that we had a paralytic.

>>24709693
I think he figured that poison wouldn't work without injection and all that crap.

>>24709693

He also knows we'd never kill him. He was the first (besides Mari, I think) to push the whole 'be a paladin' thing, he's got a lot of faith in us.

>>24709693
And yet a human's hardness down there doesn't directly rely on bone strength.

>>24709728
Also this.

>>24709728
either that or he's running some kind of long-game xanatos gambit schemes to get into our skirts.

>>24709717
>>24709728
Also it'd be a better way to go kissing a hot snake chick, rather than screaming in agony as you're castrated.

>>24709540
"I'm glad you two are coming with us for the diplomacy, by the way. Always good to have more friends. I hope you guys can swim!"

>>24709756
I don't think we wear skirts

>>24709831
what do you call the bit of armor that goes past our human bit and onto the tail for a few feet then?

>>24709831
Yes we do. Sort of.

>>24709845
Armor

>>24709845
. . . Leather Bikini?

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>>24709845

On plate mail they're called faulds.

>>24709845
Cloacaguard.

>>24709902
Nobody wants to get stabbed in the cloaca.

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>>24709902
>>24709920
"One tough cloaca."

>>24709896
Huh! Didn't know that.

>>24709938
And knowing is half the battle!

And the other half is shooting someone

>>24709920
Except possibly in the innuendo sense.

>>24709628
"Talk, talk some more. Hope talking works. If talking fails...well, I'll use my fist to get through to them. Oh and penny candy. Maybe set him up with a date with his girlfriend." You say.

"Oh, okay." Tara says. "That sounds like a good plan."

"I'm glad you two are coming with us for the diplomacy, by the way. Always good to have more friends. I hope you guys can swim!" You say.

"Enough to not drown," Tara says. "And Isen says he's the best swimmer in hi-"

"Spare us." Tricia says. "But really, can he swim?"

"Yes." Tara says.

"Alright, lets go meet the evil army." Lea says.

You shove off and set sail. The Audacious isn't huge, but big enough for you to move around the deck freely and not force anyone to trip over you.

You said out for an hour, and then you see them...or at least him. Adhan is standing on the water. It looks like there's a black cloud of water below, supporting him. Behind the man you can see the signs of a large number of beings under the water. There has to be close to 300 or 500, probably more hiding deeper under the water.

Adhan himself looks very different. His armor is now slightly more practical. Solid, well covered, and all of it pitch black with runic script around the edges. Still, those large spikes that he has coming out of those oversized pauldrons are just asking for trouble. Just as Trevor said, he's wearing a smooth featureless obsidian mask, which he can probably see through, but still, is there something wrong with a basic helmet and face place? Also, he still has that stupid haircut, only now it's hanging over the mask, which just does not work.

His sword is unsheathed and hanging low at his side. It's the same too big, too heavy, unnecessarily engraved, piece of junk that he had before. Only now the motif is less dragons/suns/light and now more skulls/fire/darkness.

"That is who's going to take MY city from me?" Isen snorts. "Wow...yeah, no. I will not be conquered by a walking billiard ball with bad hair."

>>24709964
"No, that'll be the job of the hundreds of Mers behind him if we can't talk them down."

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>>24709964

Ten gold says he looks like this underneath.

>>24709964
>Isen in charge of calling someone out on gaudy style
I lol'd.
"The mask really doesn't suit him."

>>24710027
I really don't know what sort of person that outfit would suit.

>>24709964
Give Isen a dope slap and tell him we're here to talk so we should not mention the kid's absurd outfit right now.

>>24709964
"At least you look normal Isen."

>>24709964
"Sadly, it wouldn't be his doing but the army at this back. That's the real threat.

"I also still think that sword is silly."

Well we might as well get this whole show going.

Call out to him. "Hello! Can we talk for a second?"

If people have better call out go for it.

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>>24709964

To be fair, aesthetics is kind of a moot point if you have an army marching behind you and are probably leaking enormous destructive magical energy.

Pic related. You almost wouldn't have thought that he ushered in an age of prosperity and learning, only to tear it down a century later and bring mankind to extinction.

>>24710089
He isn't that terrible, aside from the weird looking sword

Rolled 14

Here's hoping negotiations go well.

>>24710073
"Lightbringer, I beseech you. We need to talk, No swords, no fighting, just words. Please."

>>24710170
I don't think we should call him Lightbringer. He's probably bitter about that on account of not being a Lightbringer any more.

>>24710191
Agreed. Though I don't remember his name anymore. I just call him Mr. 'Whatever'

>>24710191

We could try to dress it up as the Lightbringer not being a position that you can throw away or forsake. Once a Lightbringer, always a Lightbringer.

Although that might just be playing into the drama that the Dramatae have planned. Not that we aren't already doing that.

>>24710191
I'm sure it doesn't matter what we call him, he's just going to answer with "Whatever."

(If he doesn't, that means that something is up.)

>>24710204
Adhan, it's in the last post

His girlfriend's name is Ava, right?

>>24710191
Doesn't he think he's marching on a corrupt city? I'm under the though that he still thinks he's a lightbringer himself, and that everyone else isn't.

>>24710246
Yep.

>>24710228
Read right over that.

>>24710246
So we think.

>>24709964
"Billiard ball or not, he's got a sense for the dramatic. The standing-on-the-water look is a really good touch."

Rolled 20

>>24710249

I doubt he's thinking anything right now. He's probably mind-whammied like Mage's dad was.

>>24710369
why you gotta waste that nat 20?

>>24710249
He told King Paladin that he hates Citadel now. And he must sort of notice his new outfit. But maybe you're right and he's just a really deluded liar.

>>24710369
we've broken a mind whammy or two. It's kinda difficult, but possible.

we don't know what new narrative the dramatae have him mind whammed into believing.

>>24710369

He's also really easily emotionally manipulated. I suppose ASSUMING DIRECT CONTROL would be a quick way to turn this into a victory for the Dramatae, but it seems that all of their good writers were retired over petty reasons. Peace and Tragedy don't seem really creative, given how Peace was kinda "meh" when she was in an advantageous position when Tricia was making the pact.

>>24710405
that's part of what we have to find out here.

So a neutral

"Hello there. Care to parlay?" Might be the best bet.

>>24710384
not a liar, an idiot. Because he truly believes Peace over the person he supposedly loved.

>>24710424
to be fair, we SAW him getting mind-jiggered when he stabbed her.

Like, in the magic-memory.

Unless ava edited the end to make it less tragic and prevent us from prosecuting adahn.

Which could have happened.

>>24710424
I mean lying about hating Citadel. Because you can't be a Lightbringer and hate Citadel. He's an idiot as well, that goes without saying.

>>24710441

Moot point. Even if he wasn't mind-jiggered then, he is now, so the solution is the same.

Wrap n' slap, the no.1 solution for all your mind-control needs.

>>24710463
well, assuming sugar-sticks fail.

>>24709964
When we call out to him, requesting Parley, let's ensure we raise our hands over our head, with Clang on our arm and Beacon still on our back.

>>24710073
"The mask doesn't really suit him. I agree. At least you look normal, Isen. Sadly, it wouldn't be his doing but the army at this back. That's the real threat.

"I also still think that sword is silly." You say. "But he has a flair for the dramatic, the standing-on-water is a really good touch."

Isen just rolls his eyes. "Your show, Scales." He says.

You have the Audacious turn so your right in his path. "Hello!" You yell as you wave. "Can we talk for a second?"

Adhan and the army slows in their march. Then comes to a stop. With a grunt, Adhan jumps from his position and makes a three point perfect landing on the deck of the Aduacious. Slowly he rises and turns to 'look' at you.

"Speak." A raspy growly voice says. "Then get out of my way."

he was the light bringer, now he's the shaper of darkness the light bringer is supposed to kill. he probably does hate the citadel, and doesn't realize hes still a pawn.

Rolled 12

>>24710491

What would you say if I told you I had a way to destroy Citadel?

>>24710491
"Just have to ask, but why exactly are you leading an army of Mers against Stone Hall?"

>>24710463
Alternate solution. If he won't see reason, we propose a combat of champions. He'll get to settle his grudge against us mano a [snakewo]mano. We'll beat his stupid ass into the ground and disable him if possible.

>>24710491
resist the urge to give a golf clap for that sweet landing.

How should we start this one? I'm thinking something as simple as

"Ava forgives you. She lived. Would you like a sugar stick? I hear you like them."

>>24710491
"Now now, there's no need to try to intimidate me. I have no present interest in being your enemy. I just came with a question, what are you trying to accomplish here?"

>>24710491

"I would think it be easier if you spoke. What are you trying to do, here?"

Trigger the prewritten monologue! If nothing else it will buy us time.

>>24710491
"You are making a mistake. This *motion to the mer* will not do anything but end in bloodshed. Haven't you had enough of that in this lifetime?"

Offer candy if he seems like he's opening up at any point during the convo.

>>24710491
"I think it's about time you know what is going on, why you were chosen at first to be a savior, and why now you have been chosen to be the enemy."
offer him his snack, if he thinks it's poisoned toss it to Mari/Peri.
Then give him the story, how he was a sacrifice, how he is still a sacrifice. etc.

>>24710491
"Ava's alive. She forgives you, Adahn, and she would like to see you. She also wanted you to have this-" present the barley sticks.

>>24710529
>>24710540
>>24710565
Do one of these first. Ask him what he's doing here.

Then do the ava forgives you thing.

>>24710491

Geez, this guy. So much style, so little substance.

It would've been like ten times more intimidating if he just suddenly appeared in front of the group without any warning.

>>24710821
I really like the jump. It was all I could do to restrain a golf clap.

>>24710529
"I think it would be easier if you spoke. Why exactly are you leading an army of Mers against Stone Hall? What are you trying to accomplish?" You say.

"The city is of no importance, the Leviathan has the prize that I seek." He says. "But I know Citadel's workings. I know that the Chimmeri will fight to the death to protect their precious Stones of Summer. Thus I send this to them." He gestures to the horde. "And while they are busy with this, I will be able to claim what I need...what is mine by right." He points to his blade. You notice that there are five circular indentations within it. Looking like something fits within. "You would do best to go back to your home and prepare Paladin. Prepare for the end of Citadel's warmth for the cold shadows are coming and I am their herald."

"What is he talking about?" Isen asks quietly. "I've read every story in Citadel's library, I've never heard of any Stones of Summer...and are YOU guys the Chimmeri? Sorta?"

"Ssh." Tricia says. "Don't upset him."

"You wish to save your people and hold true to your Light? Then let me pass, for I am what has been withheld from Citadel for so long. The time has come for the great reaping...and you can either stand aside and manage what is to come...or die like the rest."

Rolled 18

>>24710912

The fastest way to end the Citadel would be to retire with Ava.

>>24710912
"You have absolutely no idea what is going on, here take a candy and sit, it's time that you know the truth about whats going on."

>>24710912
"I can't let you start a war for your personal vendettas. Why don't we sit down and talk? We have no love for Citadel either."

>>24710912
Is he seriously trying to bring eternal winter to the land by stealing some rocks and putting them in his sword? That plan is so stupid on so many levels.

>>24710912
"And From where do you draw knowledge of this quest you're on? From an old man? From another wall? Here, take somecandy, and let us enlightne you as to what you've been doing, and how you can help us bring the light into Citadels darkness!"
>Proceed to recap everything. Dramatae, Land Spirit, Dragon who was of Shadow, everything he doesn't already know, and needs to, as well as dispelling the mind melt he's got going via either prayer, or medallion.

>>24710912
"You know that Citadel's warmth is already ending, right? Let me tell you about the time someone tried to kill me because it rained in Citadel..."

Not being entirely serious, but worth bearing in mind.

>>24711052
its a dramate plan, don't think book plot, think video game plot.

>>24710912
",'And you intend to cut down the darkness? With what, a blade that can only cut flesh?', Adhan, listen to me, the Citadel cannot be fought with a weapon nor an army. "

>>24710912
"There's no such thing as "Stones of Summer", there's no such things as "Chimmeri", and the ones who told you about "Citadel's inner workings" are the same ones who turned you into a Lightbringer in the first place and made you try to kill your girlfriend. They also happen to work on Citadel's behalf... thus why they've sent you to attack Stone Hall, one of the few cities where Citadel has lost its grip."

"And yes, I said "try", by the way, because Ava's alive. She's a hairdresser now."

guys remember. He doesn't actually believe in any of this... its just been put into his head.

Here. Have a Barley Stick. Ava says they are your favorite. Would you like to hear how she is doing?

>>24711177
Specifically offer the barley stick as we explain things to him, because Ava told suggested they were something he liked before Citadel's agents ruined his life.

>>24711163
There is such a thing as Chimmeri, Granny said they made the blood moss.

>>24710912
Sigh. He's being very silly. Then this: >>24710595

>>24710966
"You have absolutely no idea what is going on." You sigh. "I can't let you start a war for your personal vendettas, and from where do you draw knowledge of this quest you're on? From an old man? From another wall?

"There's no such thing as "Stones of Summer", there's no such things as "Chimmeri", and the ones who told you about "Citadel's inner workings" are the same ones who turned you into a Lightbringer in the first place and made you try to kill your girlfriend. They also happen to work on Citadel's behalf... thus why they've sent you to attack Stone Hall, one of the few cities where Citadel has lost its grip.

"And yes, I said "try", by the way, because Ava's alive. She's a hairdresser now."

Adhan's head twitches at that. He shifts his grip on his sword.

"Citadel's warmth is already ending. And even if you intend to cut it down, do you plan to use a blade that can only cut flesh?, Adhan, listen to me...here..." You take out the packet of wax paper and hold out the candy.

"Have a Barley Stick. Ava says they are your favorite. Would you like to hear how she is doing?"

Adhan turns to look at the candy. "It...I...It doesn't matter." He says. At least the harsh gravel voice act is done. "Ava is gone, and I am beyond simple things like her, silly Lightbringer stories, and certainly candy that only babies eat." He pushes your hand away. "Put that away, and move or I will have you all killed." He says. He sounds more like he's pouting than anything else.

>>24711325
After these messages, we'll be right back...

>>24708642
i know this is late, but we must somehow get Granny, Ssah and Ssai some icecream once this blows over, remember our reaction to it after all.

>>24711325

I knew we should have brought Ava along. She'd at least make this interesting, instead of pathetic.

"If you're beyond 'silly Lightbringer stories', then why are you masquerading as the villain of one? Look at you! You're as cliche'd as they come right now!"

>>24711325
"Fine. If you don't want it." Open our mouth and make like we're going to eat it.

Let the psychological warfare commence.

Whatever we say next we should pull out one of the barley sticks and lick it before continuing and hold one out and say "You sure you don't want one?"

>>24711325
*eat one*
"Oh please. Whats the point of being an adult if you can't be childish now and then? Besides Adhan, take a moment. Think about the situation you are in right now. Because I'm seeing a lot of similarities between then and now. Only now you are going at this by yourself and on the other side."

>>24711325
"Man the fuck up and eat the candy while I explain some things to you. What you do after that is your decision, but I won't have you make that decision based solely on the lies you've been fed by Citadel and its agents."

Accompanied by the dreaded Paladin Stare.

>>24711410
this heh

Then something like this:
Adahn what was your name before you got caught up in all this. Ava told me hers. Lily. Its a pretty name. I liked it. Its a shame you don't want to remember those who gave you yours. After your Sage arranged for them to be killed someone should live to remember them.

After all you are on your way to do the same to some other young man.

>>24711441
Throw in a Voice of JUSTICE to inspire guilt.

>I'm pretty sure a Voice of JUSTICE could easily silence a black knight wearing full spiked bloodstained plate with a simple statement.
>black knight
>spiked plate

Man, whoever wrote that was some kind of prophet.

Also add in that Ava did our and Mage's hair. Shes very good. Has a following of faithful customers already.


She does want to see you again Adahn. The only reason she isn't here is because she doesn't want to fight if it comes to that. Not anymore.

>>24711325
"Oh come now, they're really good. Enjoying a piece of candy doesn't mean you're a baby, it just means you know what you like. Well, the offer stands. Ava forgives you by the way. She wants to talk to you. She's not part of one of the silly Lightbringer stories anymore. Now, she's just a girl you knew who wants to see you again.

As for ending Citadel's reign, this isn't the way to go about it. If it is going to end, it must end with a whisper. Don't give your foes a reason. Don't give them something to avenge.

So come on, would you at least halt your host to meet with Ava? No one is ever beyond redemption, Adahn; and nothing is ever so broken that it cannot be fixed with love, willpower and a little humility."

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>>24711492

There was a table for it or something. As I recall it summoned 1d6 Brian Blesseds...

>>24711492
>>24711441
He won't respond to yelling just yet. First we need to plant some more seeds of doubt.

>>24711492
SIT DOWN, SHUT UP, AND EAT THE CANDY
>... but I...
SIT DOWN
>... yes ma'am
Good, now isn't that better? EAT THE CANDY
>... whate
YOU'RE NOT EATING

>>24711575
1d12 Brian Blesseds, actually
>>24711589
I figured that a Voice of JUSTICE doesn't have to be a shout -- think of Batman, or Superman's "World of Cardboard" speech, for some non-shouting Voices of JUSTICE.

>>24711580
It's not yelling, it's the Paladin stare. It shuts him up for a while while we plant said seeds.

If we do it right, he may still be bitch-whipped by the time of the first Doubt harvest, or even the first Doubtoberfest.

>>24711589
I wonder what level a paladin we need to be to do that.

Are we a high enough level right now?

>>24711660
we only have +2 on most of our combat rolls, and some of that is equipment... so I don't think we are a very high level.

>>24711634
The voice of justice can also be the voice that your mom puts on when she's about to all you out on something you did as a child. The one that sends shivers up your spine just thinking about it.

>>24711660
We've Paladin-stared better men than him into submission.

>>24711660
>what level of paladin
Granny before being beaten back by the Dramatae.

>>24711697
But... doesn't it work BETTER on better men?

>>24711690
It's also sometimes called the "danger voice".

Like my mom... "Ah tell yah you be cruisan for ah bruisan mah baby boy".

>>24711717
No because they already know what (if anything) they did was wrong. They've already got their shit straight. There is a peak ripeness of guilt which is the root of vulnerability to the Paladin-stare. Too wicked and they don't care, too good and they already know.

>>24711717
First off, he's a low-level commoner with some half-decent brainwashing and no actual combat experience. Second, he clearly knows on some level that he done fucked up.

It shouldn't be that difficult.

I sort of want to challenge him to a 3-round match of fisticuffs to settle our differences

>>24711837
"Tricia, hold mah flower."

>>24711837
right now hes souped up on Citadel magic. It'd be an almost impossible fight.

>>24711871
Glorious.
>>24711872
Perhaps. I'd still like the chance to try quick-quick enhanced boxing one day.

>>24711558
But yea what do y'all think of this? Trying to plant the seeds of doubt. We want it to seem so easy and tempting to come over to the good side.

>>24711558
>>24711954
I like it.

I want to explain to him that citadel WILL fall if he doesn't give it a cause to rally behind.

A cause like, say, an invading monster army? Without something like that, citadel can't support itself any longer.

>>24711954

Hence the candy. Tasty tasty goodness, literally.

Incidentally, 'twould be a bad idea to appeal to his life before being Adahn, methinks. If Ava is any indication, Lightbringers seem to prefer being Lightbringers over -not- being Lightbringers.

On the other hand, Ava didn't have the Doomed Hometown.

>>24711983
Unfortunately if you don't know about the Dramatae, the Lightbringers and Citadel's true purpose that sounds unbelievable.

>>24712004
>>24711954
>hence the candy
Hardest part of this whole plan will be Ssen eating the candy. She's a fucking carnivore. This is barley gum. It's probably nasty as shit, and hard to chew.

>>24712035
carnivores can stomach a bit of grain. Worst case? She swallows it whole.

>>24711325
It's not the candy that's going to win him over. It's Ava. That's what gave him pause.

"I saw what happened, when the one with the mask made you stab Ava. The masked one, so-called "Peace", said afterward that Ava didn't love you anymore, and you didn't need her. But that's not true, Adahn. She's still in love with you, and she doesn't want to see you sacrifice yourself.

You've read the Lightbringer stories. You know how they end. You're being set up here. They're playing on your emotions, trying to cut you off from how you really feel. You enjoyed your life with Ava; don't you want that back? Because she wants you back."

>>24711805
>and no actual combat experience.
They did actually do some fighting. Ava really didn't like it, part of the reason she wanted to stop.
Also he's got magic backing him up. Who knows what they've put into that armor.

>>24711983
Yeah, part of the "Don't give them a reason-" bit.

>>24712004
Hmm I think it might be risky to bring up his life before being Adahn, though, since it's just as likely to summon a longing for a normal life as it is to remind him of his IMPOTENT REVENGE QUEST.

>>24712064
>Oh, come on, it's really good. Even adults enjoy candy once in a while
>take a bite
>eyes water up
>can't chew properly
>just swallow it all whole and be done with it
>play if off like that's just how lamias do

I am already chuckling.

>>24711325
Pop a candy stick in our mouth.

"Well, if you insist on not having fun, do you at least mind if I have one? Great. Anyway, I fink ou shoold reevahluhate the shichuashun. Ou ahr heer becaush Shitadel wansh ou tah attahck Shtone Haall. Itsh one of two free shitiesh an ey wan a new Lightbringer, shee? Sho ey wanna do both at onesh, an ey wan ou tah be the one to do it."

"Because you're still part of their story, and they're still trying to use you. Here, have a candy stick while you think about that. It's good for the nerves."

>>24711983
That does seem plausible, if we can get him in the right frame of mind to listen. I'm thinking we get him to open up by talking about Ava and using that to convince him that Peace lied to him about her not loving him anymore, and that'll get him in doubting mode where he could at least consider the idea that what he's doing will only make Citadel stronger.

>>24712134
"Anywaysh, ou cahn shtill go back, ou know. Ava shtill caresh about ou, an I know she'd be here ash shoon ash she could if you wanned tah talk to er."

Then finish the candy.
"You haven't lost everything. Not yet. Not by a long shot. But if you do this, you WILL lose it all. Not just Ava, not just any hope for a future, but yourself. Everything you once were."

When Ava came to you in those mountains she wasn't saying she didn't care about you Adahn. She wanted to find more about the man behind the 'whatever.' Find out if you and her could be more then what your Sage planned for you. Even now she asked me to remember her and if at all possible bring you to her... safe.

>>24712190
I wish we brought some economics papers.

If we showed him the MESS of bronze peak's loan information, and told him that yes, the entire kingdom has similar problems, he'd be more likely to believe us.

>>24712291
why would he care?

>>24712291
You honestly think Adahn would understand financial paperwork?

The guy can barely tie his shoes.

>>24712301
It illustrates citadel falling apart? Though,
>>24712311
raises a more salient counterpoint.

>>24712311
>The guy can barely tie his shoes
Also explains why he has to wear a helmet for everyday activities.

>>24712384
But the helmet is so cool man!

>>24712333
Velcro Cuisses

>>24712311

All this poor fool knows is how to be sad.

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>>24712311

Maybe if we convince enough people that he's a financial wizard, he'll shift into exactly what we describe him to be.

>>24712412
We're using a complex system of strapping right now, right?

>>24712414
>>24712384
>>24712311

>Present-state Adahn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1-v9VFqztY

>>24712470
WE HAVE A LEGITIMATE PROBLEM

>>24712493
well it's not our fault the blacksmiths can't figure out how to armor a snake.

>>24712596
I'd imagine a series of plates, one for each broad "belly-scale" an all of them clinging tightly to that belly-scale. The plates would be surfaced like a rasp and given a slight flange outward on the tail-ward edge so as to catch the ground a little. That way we'd still be able to move.

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>>24712493
>>24712596
Speaking of: have we ever tried tying a ribbon on the tip of our tail?

I bet you 5 coins Tricia would love it. Isen too.

>>24712686
I think we're too tomboyish for that.

>>24712696
I didn't think we were so tomboyish. Not any more than any of the OTHER adventurer ladies.

Heck, we got our hair did. When we had a chance and the time.

>>24712696
Agreed. But next time we have occasion to don formal wear, I say we put our hair up in an elegant bun. It's feminine enough to be particularly dainty compare to Ssen's normal look, but not uncomfortably so. And I wonder if Tricia would like it.

>>24712763
>formal
>putting hair EVEN MORE UP
I say we let our hair down if we're ever in a formal. It's always a pony tail.

>>24712749
There's a difference between caring about how we look and being girly

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IDEA! If we ever want to drive Tricia absolutely nuts:

1. Acquire 10 L of honey
2. Cover self in honey
3. Add flower petals for pollen
4. Address Tricia: Your move, Ladybug...

>>24712797
Maybe on our anniversary.

And if we're absolutely sure Isen won't walk in through the door instead of Tricia.

>>24712797
Nobody wants honey in the cloaca.

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>>24712797

That- that's so... INDECENT!!!

Spoiler your lewdness, please. This is a classy establishment.

>>24712797
>Cover self in honey
That would be disgusting.

>>24712797
Wake up covered in ants

>>24712898
I think that was the idea, as long as they were friendly ants.

>>24712898
That would be Tricia.

>>24712898
>>24712909
>>24712921
Ants? In my cloaca?

It's more likely/erotic than you think.

>>24712134
"Oh come now, they're really good. Enjoying a piece of candy doesn't mean you're a baby, it just means you know what you like. Well, if you insist on not having fun, do you at least mind if I have one? Great." You pop one of the barley sticks in your mouth and you try not to wince. Ugh...maybe Tricia, and other humans, thinks these things are okay, but you are NOT a fan. You'll stick with honeycomb when you want sweets.

"Ava shtill caresh about ou, an...uh...hold on..." You spit the chunk of candy out. "Ugh."

"Hey, don't waste those." Adhan says.

"You haven't lost everything. Not yet. I saw what happened, when the one with the mask made you stab Ava. The masked one, so-called "Peace", said afterward that Ava didn't love you anymore, and you didn't need her. But that's not true, Adahn. She's still in love with you, and she doesn't want to see you sacrifice yourself.

"You've read the Lightbringer stories. You know how they end. You're being set up here. They're playing on your emotions, trying to cut you off from how you really feel. You enjoyed your life with Ava; don't you want that back? Because she wants you back.

"But, if you do this, you WILL lose it all. Not just Ava, not just any hope for a future, but yourself. Everything you once were."

"She doesn't love me." Adhan says. "I told her that I loved her and she said to my face that she didn't. I've loved her since I saw her. I saved her life from the Ghouls, and she was my first...my first...just my first. I did all sorts of nice things for her. I made sure she never got hurt, and I was always there to help her. And what does she do when I tell her that I love her? She spits it back at me! That's not how it works!" Adhan says. "She's not even here."

"And thank His Light for that." Tara mutters.

"Ssh." Isen says. "I wasn't much better at my start."

>>24712973
>>24712921
>>24712909
Nononononono

I really hope Tricia can keep herself together.

>>24712898
At least it's not BEEEEEEEEESS

>>24712973
It is becoming concerning how many times we've said cloaca in this thread...

>>24711325
"Tell you what, you put a few of these away, and I'll explain to you why what you're doing here is a mistake. You'd better take a few of them, it's going to take a bit."

"But hey, you're supposed to be some kind of "Harbinger of Doom" or something, so what does it cost you to listen? So our "doom" comes a few minute later. You could at least listen to the parts about Ava and Citadel."

>>24713005
"So. It -does- matter then? It's only natural. Look, I'm not going to claim to be an expert on romance, but she wants you safe, she wants you back, and she misses you. If that's not love, then take it for what you will.

Sit down, maybe eat some sugar sticks, and I'll try to explain this entire convoluted ages-spanning tragedy. You've nothing to lose, listening to me here and now.

>>24713005
"See, that's the problem. She is in love with you, but not like this. She's not in love with the Adahn that has something to prove, a mission to complete, a battle to win. She's tired of fighting. She's looking for the Adahn that existed before all that, before it was you two against the world. She wants the Adahn that still liked these, not the one that was too busy being a Lightbringer to stop and enjoy them.

Suppose you knew the world would still be safe; do you really have to be the one that charges in and saves it? You seem so willing to sacrifice everything for the world. Would you sacrifice everything for her, for the love she still has for you? Would you sacrifice all this, the mask and the mission, and settle down with her?"

>>24713005
She might not be in love with you now... but she wants to see if she can. She cares deeply. Otherwise she wouldn't have begged me to do my best to bring you to her alive and free of Peace's influence.

She is willing to give you and her a chance Adahn. Isn't that worth something? She wants to know if what you and she have had was real. That is all. And with the amount of magic that pushed you two together, anyone would want to make sure.

>>24713005
"You're so convinced that Ava doesn't care for you anymore, but you're wrong. Ava was scared, confused by the whole Lightbringer business. She didn't know what she felt and she needed time to figure everything out. She does want to see you again though; she isn't giving up on you. Think about it, Adahn; would a Paladin and her cadre really come all the way out here to attempt a bloodless end to this bearing nothing more than candy and a half-assed lie? Yet here we are.

If you ever loved her, give -her- a chance to save -you-."

>>24713005
"Yes, she DOES love you, just not what those Masked freaks turned you into. She wanted to get to know what YOU were like behind the ridiculous sword and armor: the real you. As for why she's not here, you know as well as the rest of us that she's not a warrior. She knew she'd be dead weight with the kind of hijinks we get up to, and probably didn't want to hold us back. I suspect that deep down she also knew that the next time she saw you... well, that you'd be like this."

"If you really love her, drop the mask, leave your sword and armor behind, and we'll bring her here to see you. Not as Lightbringers, not as the tools of Citadel's perverted stories, but as yourselves."

"You have my word as a Paladin of the Light that this isn't a trick. But if you refuse to stand down, a lot of people are going to die and you're going to lose any chance you might have had to finally do something meaningful, something above and beyond the lies of the Lightbringer stories: the right thing."

>>24713030
What's concerning about cloacae?

>>24713295
Snake-butts are always relevant

>>24713286
This one seems to be a good summation of the others.

I like it!

>>24713335
>>24713295
Only when Isen is around do these conversation happen

>>24713358
If Isen posted in this quest, there'd be a lot more call for fapfics.

>>24713376

DON'T GIVE HIM IDEAS. Citadel decided to start posting, didn't it?

>>24713399
Nope. Citadel never posts in these threads.

>>24713399
Not me this time, Homie. I'm just watchin and enjoying this popcorn.

Isen x Every Single Female Character plz.

>>24713399
Too late, buddy. Just when you thought the quest couldn't get any better, THE COOLEST NAMEFRIEND EVER ARRIVES!
>>24713376
I'm appalled that you'd think I need it. No fiction, fap or otherwise, could ever be as awesome as MY real life.

... dear god this thread is going to collapse under the weight of the Ego it just gained.

>>24713475
>I'm appalled that you'd think I need it. No fiction, fap or otherwise, could ever be as awesome as MY real life.

You know, if you convince Echo to write it, then it's like it actually happened.

>>24713475
>>24713461

Oh god what have I done.

>>24713488
Only if you have to roll for it, HEYO!

ANOTHER WIN FOR THE AUDACIOUS ONE!

>>24713521
You fool, you know not which you have invoked!

>>24713537
Get off the damn computer and help with negotiations!

>>24713174
"So. It -does- matter then? It's only natural. Look, I'm not going to claim to be an expert on romance, but she wants you safe, she wants you back, and she misses you.

"You're so convinced that Ava doesn't care for you anymore, but you're wrong. Ava was scared, confused by the whole Lightbringer business. She didn't know what she felt and she needed time to figure everything out. She does want to see you again.

"BUT...she's not in love with the Adahn that has something to prove, a mission to complete, a battle to win. She's tired of fighting. She's looking for the Adahn that existed before all that, before it was you two against the world. She wants the Adahn that still liked these, not the one that was too busy being a Lightbringer to stop and enjoy them." You hold out the barley sugar sticks to him.

"If you really love her, drop the mask, leave your sword and armor behind, and we'll bring her here to see you. Not as Lightbringers, not as the tools of Citadel's perverted stories, but as yourselves.

"Think about it, Adahn; would a Paladin and her cadre really come all the way out here to attempt a bloodless end to this bearing nothing more than candy and a half-assed lie? Yet here we are. You have my word as a Paladin of the Light that this isn't a trick. But if you refuse to stand down, a lot of people are going to die and you're going to lose any chance you might have had to finally do something meaningful, something above and beyond the lies of the Lightbringer stories: the right thing."

Adhan just stands there for a while. One hand reaches out for the wax paper. Then the runes on his armor glow, and there's a flare of not-violet light from his mask. He knocks the candy away and points his sword at you.

(cont)

quick-quick dodge?

>>24713609
Crap, looks like we're going to have to prize that mask off him if we want him to listen to us.

>>24713587
Awww, you're no fun. That's all I EVER get to do anymore! And Sexy-Scales is handling most of the heavy-lifting even!

Being a supporting character is suffering.

>>24713693

Isen pls go

>>24713609
Time to spend an hour attempting to constrict this guy

"Peace I name you. Peace I see your mark upon this soul. Peace, In the name of the Light, I cast you OUT!"

(I doubt it will work hah.)

>>24713609
Time for a combat of champions then. Let this entire war be settled by our duel.

>>24713770
It worked before. It's worth a shot. It might buy us enough time to get him to take them off.

the funny thing is:

we're not even in his way. He could just WALK RIGHT PAST.

>>24713708
constriction probably won't work.

I would suggest clang/beacon to build a charge. maybe a direct light shining on him will dispel the citadel.

>>24713979
That'd take 3-5 hits, and even one means we've probably lost any hope of a non-violent end to this.

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>>24713979

BRILLIANT.

Rolled 2

Damn, it seems like we got through to him before the mind-whammy hit.

>>24714008
actually... it only requires SSEN take 3-5 hits.

Even if she doesn't block with clang, it builds a charge.

Are you martyr enough to stop a war?

>>24714008
We can't constrict though, the guy's covered in spikes, which impractical though they may be, do prevent grappling being an option.

>>24713609
"The Cold Shadow will fall." He says in that gravel voice. "The Stones Of Summer will be mine."

His face glitches from side to side, like the Fell King did.

"Ugh...no...shut up, shut up, shut up!" Adhan says. "There's no need for that! I'll do it! I'll do it!"

The glow stops. "You are such a bitch." Adhan says. "You ruined my life, and you're the reason the others died, and why Ava doesn't love me anymore. Now you're here screwing with my head again, but I wont be suckered like you did with Ava." He raises his sword. "You're dead monster."

There's a sound of blades and arrows and charged magic. Adhan looks at the fact that he's completely surrounded by a group of people who are all armed and look very much in a 'Done With This Shit' mood.

"All I need to do is gesture." He says. "And this ship and you will be ripped to shreds by my army."

"Maybe so, but you'll be starting your journey at the same time as we do." Isen says.

Adhan swallows. "I...I..." His mask starts to glow again. "No, no, stop it. They wont listen to me like that! I said I'd do it!" He pants.

"Also, the Leviathan's watching us." Mari says. "They see our ship go down, they open fire with everything."

"No...no this isn't how it works. I'm supposed to raid the ship and the town." He says. "I'm going to be reunited with Ava and help stop the Cold Shadow...I have to do this...it HAS to be me."

The mask flares again. "Ugh...no! Don't...I'll so it. I'll do it. Just...just promise me that I won't die. I don't want to die."

The mask glows again and Adhan straightens himself up. "Last chance. Leave, or my army rips this ship and you apart." He says. This isn't like those rote words the Fell King said, this is Adhan saying those words.

>>24713979
>>24714008

We don't strike him. We get charges when blocking with Clang. We fight defensively/evasively to reliably parry all his shitty clumsy blows whilst lecturing somberly in classic Paladin style. Then when Clang has built up enough charges, we GIVE HIM THE LIGHT.

>>24714063
You'll die Adahn Every Bringer of Darkness has died. Along with Every Lightbringer.

What do you think will happen to someone who was both?

But you can live. With Ava. Take off the mask and live.

>>24714063
"Neither of us is going to yield, you see. And that means we're all going to die, unless you and I settle this right now. I propose a duel. If you fell me, you've gotten you vengeance and my group will let your host pass unmolested. If I win, your forces will be left leaderless and driven back. Sound fair?"

>>24714063

"Ava is waiting for you! Just stop. That's all you have to do!"

>>24714063
"You say you don't want to die, Adahn? Tell me now that you want to live, for Ava, and I'll do everything I can to make it happen. Take that mask off, and tell me what you want. If you still want to attack us after that, fine; I just want to know that it was your decision and not anyone else's."

Rolled 2

>>24714063
How about combat of champions? You and me, one on one?

>>24714063
Do you truly think this will work Adahn.

You know the stories, the ones you are being forced into.

You are a sacrificial lamb, first as a s Lightbringer and now as the Bringer of Darkness. Ana got out, and so can you. Please stop this, I can't protect you if you go through with the attack.

>>24714199
That'll get us killed. Adahn is hopped up on all the meanest magic the Dramatae could pile onto him right now.

>>24714063
"It's that bad, eh Adahn? How about we settle this with a contest then. If I win, you take off your helmet and I save your life by preventing this crazy war. If you win, you get to go on and kill yourself on the leviathan like you plan.

Sound fair?"

Also, what do we challenge him to. Just a to-the-yield duel?

>>24714262

See
>>24714261

We need to get to his psyche, more than anything else. The Dramatae are probably pushing hard on him to go on with the act, or they'll do terrible terrible things to him. He's being forced to choose between making his own decisions and facing the terrible consequences, or go along with the story and face terrible consequences anyway.

>>24714063
Wait a minute, we're missing something important here.

"What are they threatening you with, Adahn? You're fighting to keep your own mind, here; what's the threat that has you so afraid of disobeying? It's your life, Adahn; throw it away if that's what you want, but nobody has the right to make you sacrifice yourself. What do they want, Adahn?"

Can we just tell him to take off the damn Mask?

>>24714063
"Who says it has to be you? Who told you that this job is yours and yours alone?

Sigh.

"Nobody wants to die Adahn. But if you go down this path, there's a very good chance you will, no... that's guaranteed. It wont be by me though.

"If you just take that mask off AND think for yourself for once, not listen to those whispering to you or even me, for that matter. Ask yourself this. What do you truly want? Is it just not dying? Is Ana? What is it?"

>>24714353
good point
>>24714370
better point

>>24714380
Indeed. He doesn't want to listen to us, but he shouldn't have to listen to *them* either. He thinks so highly of himself; why should he listen to anyone else telling him what to do?

>>24714432
No, I think Adhan does want to listen to us, but the Dramatae have something over him. And more than just the obvious.

>>24714496
I agree. We need to find out what, and we need to get him to decide to stop listening. If they have some leverage over him other than the most obvious (the mask and the need to save the world), we can do something about that. Otherwise, we just need to get him to decide to take the mask off and decide for himself.

We could try to personally challenge him for control of the Mer, or even start telling them about the bounty and about how their home is defenseless due to the dramatae.

>>24714380
"Nobody wants to die Adahn. But if you go down this path, there's a very good chance you will, no...that's guaranteed. It wont be by me though.

"If you just take that mask off AND think for yourself for once, not listen to those whispering to you or even me, for that matter. Ask yourself this. What do you truly want? Is it just not dying? Is Ana? What is it?"

"Be quiet!" Adhan barks.

"What are they threatening you with, Adahn? You're fighting to keep your own mind, here; what's the threat that has you so afraid of disobeying? It's your life, Adahn; throw it away if that's what you want, but nobody has the right to make you sacrifice yourself. What do they want, Adahn?"

"They don't want anything, the mask doesn't want anything. Shut up. You don't know anything!" Adhan says.

"I know that you don't have to listen to me." You say. "But you don't have to listen to them either. Take off the damn mask."

"No, no, NO!" Adhan says. "I made a DEAL...I do this, and I make SURE that it works...and then I'll get Ava back for a little...and then after that Jubilee, and the three others, and all the other things that I screwed up will be fixed!" He says. "It'll be like my failures never happened, and people will be alive again."

>>24713537
Is he in slapping range? Cause he needs a good slap.

>>24714575

Un-Doomed Hometown.

You know, as Carrots-onna-stikk go, that's pretty impressive. It's also a complete lie, but...

"Adahn, you never screwed up anything. None of this is your fault. It's the fault of the ones that gave you that mask!"

>>24714575
"If you do this, Adahn, you'll see your three friends again alright, but you won't see Ava for a long time. Life doesn't work like that. What happened to your friends and your home was a tragedy, but it can't just be undone, and throwing yourself after them won't change that.

Your friends will always be alive in your memories. But they wouldn't want you following them anytime soon, and Ava wouldn't want you throwing your life away like this.

You're being promised everything you could possibly want, the storybook happy ending. But if you do this, you're missing out on the real 'happily ever after' with Ava."

>>24714646
>pretty impressive
I gotta say, I winced when I read that. THAT is some shit we can't offer.

>>24714575
"Adhan, they can't even bring themselves back from the grave. They will not keep their end of the deal, you will dance on their strings, and when they're done, they will kill you. This is the only thing that can come from dealing with the dramatae."

>>24714575
"Adahn. I understand. I sympathize more than you'd probably ever believe, knowing what you think of me. Everyone makes mistakes. You may hate me because you think everything goes great for me, but that couldn't be further from the truth. I fuck up a lot of things. All the time. I too, almost killed the woman whom I love dearly. I did it -twice-. Every time I err, I feel the weight of the consequences bearing down on me just like you do. The difference between us is that I was taught to let that weight temper me then cast it off, not to let it crush me for the rest of my life. Adahn, you have to realize the past is unalterable but also that the world wants to forgive you all your mistakes, if only you will forgive yourself."

>>24714575
"Do you think any of them, any of your lost friends, or Ava, do you think they'd be happy if they knew what you were going to do? You've made a deal with the very people who forced you down this path in the first place, the very people who told you to stab Ava, the same people who will cast you aside to keep their sick little story going when you stop being useful to them.

Ava is still alive, and you could see her, you could make things right, but this isn't the way."

>>24714705
Neither can they truly. All their offers and grand standing for him? Total bullshit. To make him dance like the puppet he is.

>>24714757
yeah, but we've MATCHED their offers up until now with the seductive power of good and righteousness.

Now we can't match offers.

They lied. Like Peace has always lied to you. Remember how he said you were to be a Lightbringer out of legends once? Look at you now.

You are the replacement to the Ghoul King that razed your town. And you will DIE to the next Lightbringer as it has been done for Seven Ages.

>>24714575
Another approach: "That's some gall they've got, promising you a thing like that, when they're the ones that arranged Jubilee's downfall, and your friends' deaths. What better way to get you to do anything and everything they want, to put you on the warpath?"

>>24714749
That's not a bad idea either.

>>24714757

Actually, now I'm curious.

Echo, can Citadel actually raise the dead? It's moot in this situation, because even if It could, It wouldn't, but I'd like to know.

>>24714785
And we tell him their offer is bullshit. That there is no way in hell they'll live up to their side of the deal. They never have.

>>24714799
I'd bet it can put you into a stupor so big that you'd think it can.

>>24714646
(While this is true, I've got some other things to say re: undoing screw-ups.)

>>24714575
I'm sorry Adahn, but it doesn't work that way.

Growing up, I heard rumors that there were other lamias living in the forest outside my village. When I heard that there was a bounty posted on the heads of every lamia in the kingdom, I went home as fast as I could to see if they really existed, and to make sure that they were alive. I was too late; someone had killed them before I arrived, and now nobody in the world will know their names. I searched and searched until my belly was worn smooth, and there was no life to be found in that tower.

But you know what? We move on, and work to make sure that we do better in the future. In chasing you, we managed to rescue two other lamias and made sure that the mer (that YOU left undefended -- maybe we should save this for later) were safe. Nobody's perfect or all-powerful -- if we let ourselves be trapped by our mistakes and shortcomings, nothing good would ever get done.

Ava understands this, and she hopes you will too. It's never too late.

>>24714757

I don't know. Trivalon seemed pretty confident that they would bring him back after he got hung.

>>24714842
Nice sentiment, but I don't think he'll have much sympathy for "monsters".

>>24714799
>>24714838

Well, Citadel's minions know necromancy. And animating a body and sticking the soul back in it is practically bringing back the dead. Right?

>>24714856
>>24714860
Reincarnation isn't exactly raising the dead, but it's a hope, albeit a sick one.

>>24714575
YOU ARE THEIR TOOL. EVEN IF THEY MADE GOOD, WHICH THEY NEVER WILL, IT WOULD BE AT THE PRICE OF YOUR LIFE, THE LIVES OF EVERYONE IN THIS CITY, AND THE LIVES OF THE NEW LIGHTBRINGER SACRIFICES THEY'RE TRYING TO CREATE.

FULL. FUCKING. PALADIN GLARE.

>>24714859
>inb4 he responds to our sob story with "Whatever."

>>24714891
>imagining isen on the sidelines
"Glare 'im! Glare 'im so good!"

>>24714891
...that's so Isen.

>>24714856
You mean the tools that they might need? Ones that they're very willing to just let die or kill themselves? Those same people? Because that's a different story. With Adahn, there isn't a chance in hell they'll let him have any kind of happy ending.