Your plan to take control of the Fey Court, by having Mage 'become' the reincarnation of the elf king Dagda the Good is proceeding. Probably not as well as you'd like, but proceeding.

The reincarnated corpses that Comedy has summoned are a problem. Not because they're aggressive mindless zombies, but because they're calm, coherent, and happy to talk. Though you've been able to work the group through the initial shock and horror, it's obvious that they're having trouble.

Tricia's being driven to distraction by her aunt's endless jabbering about hives, food, mating, pupation, and other things that insects find to be priorities. Peri has left everything to Mari, not wanting to deal with anything regarding Donovan. And Lea has reverted back to being a child, once more under the thumb of her father's emotional manipulation.

And as for your own mother...she told you that she loved you.

Mage's first test to proving that he was Dagda was a test of strength. Comedy forced your mother to give it to him. Mage was challenged to break free of her coils before she crushed him to death.

Thanks to some clever spell work, and a hint from you, Mage was able to get free, but he did so by pulping your mother's innards, including the brain. She's free of that corpse body now...but most likely back to being used by Citadel as building material.

You and Uncle Julian gave her last rights. You made sure that he got into a bed safely, and you curled up in a corner to grieve and sleep.

>>25036676
Huzzah Lamia quest earlier than normal.

>>25036690
I know right? S'good.

Well, except for having to deal with double-dead parents. That's gonna leave a mark.

>>25036682
The sound of splashing water wakes you up. You start, wiping your face. Julian is up, he's washing his face in the small water basin, and applying some bandages to his split nose.

"Oh. Good morning...or evening." He shakes his head. "Not sure which...didn't mean to wake you."

>>25036822
"Oh, s'fine, at least you're not on fire." Then look for a window groggily before realizing there totally isn't a window and you'll have to ask an elf for time of day.

>>25036822
"Not at all uncle. I'm please to see that you are up and about at least."

>>25036925
"Oh, s'fine, at least you're not on fire." You mumble. You shake your head. "Sorry. I'm pleased to see that you are up and about at least." He holds up a small mirror and looks at his face. He sighs. "What's a Paladin without scars?" He puts the mirror down. "So, what was that whole part about the Ghoul boy and the lamia?" He asks. "I was fading in and out."

>>25037056
"Well in order to remove the masked mage from power Mage has to prove himself as the reincarnation of the Queens husband from a previous life. The first test was a test of strength where he had to kill....my mother.... who was resurrected by the masked mage, Comedy, or Thistleblossom whatever name she uses.

>>25037056
damnit julian, you know exactly the wrong questions to ask.

>>25037056
"Oh, that was... my mom. Dying. Again. Because of that masked elf."

Depending on how unsettled Ssen is, terse might be better.

>>25037144
"Well in order to remove the masked mage from power Mage has to prove himself as the reincarnation of the Queen's husband from a previous life. The first test was a test of strength where he had to kill...my mother...who was resurrected by the masked mage, Comedy, or Thistleblossom whatever name she uses."

Julian stares at you for a moment. "You're trying to break into the Elven Magic Iteration by becoming part of the tradition?" He looks at your face. "You have no idea what that is, don't you?" He shakes his head. "You have no idea of how much fire you're playing with."

>>25037334
That hasn't stopped us before.

>>25037334
"No, but 'An Inferno' seems like a pretty good guess."

>>25037334
"This battle has long since passed the point where a safe option that would work even exists."

>>25037334
*nervous laugh* "We never really do Uncle. If I knew what kind of trouble I would be getting into I don't think I would have even left home in the first place after father died."

>>25037334
"Uncle, my entire career has been one of stupid, incalculable risks. so yes, I have no idea how much fire I'm playing with.

>>25037355
"No, but 'An Inferno' seems like a pretty good guess, not that it hasn't stopped us before." You say. "This battle has long since passed the point where a safe option that would work even exists."

Julian nods his head. "I suppose you're not wrong...but elf magic doesn't work the same as Citadel's Magic, or even the savage Ghoul magic. It's power grows as the elves prove how 'eternal' they are. The notable historical events in their culture are repeated over and over again." He says. "That's why the elves stage these rituals, and do mock combat. The longer the 'War of the Dew Posy' or whatever it was called...is fought and refought, then the elf magic grows stronger.

"A lot of my fighting against the Fey Court was finding out where they were retelling or staging these events and disrupting them. I spent years killing their history, and now you're reinstating a HUGE part of it." He shrugs. "I don't know if it'll work, since your friend is a human, but he'll be making the elves' magic stronger as a whole. Hopefully, he'll be able to tap into it, before they turn on us."

>>25037568
Huh. Fascinating. Didn't know that.
"Ideally we'll be able to stop them before things get worse. Or, at least, we'll be able to stop citadel before we have to deal with the elves.

I much prefer an opponent that just kills you to one that eats souls. You don't wanna know what citadel bricks are made of."

>>25037568
".....well dang. I wonder how that works with potential eternity with Mage technically being a Dragon servant."

>>25037751
oh shit, I didn't think of that

>>25037568

I'm not going to lie, if Mage could tap into that magical reserve, it would be of great help against the other Dramatae. I'd bet that Mab's delicate masked daughter may have some way of tapping into that as well.

"Sorry for undoing your work, Julian. Saving one egg and breaking two in the process seems to be my way of doing things. How do you think that elf magic will react to my friend not dying of old age? It might come up."

>>25037751
"Huh. I wonder how that works with potential energy with Mage technically being a Dragon servant."

"He's a what?" Julian asks.

You wave it off. "Ideally we'll be able to stop them before things get worse. Or, at least, we'll be able to stop Citadel before we have to deal with the elves.

"I much prefer an opponent that just kills you to one that eats souls. You don't wanna know what Citadel bricks are made of."

Julian shakes his head. "I don't want to know. I've already seen too much." He sighs and looks around the room. "I always imagined that I would would some day be in these halls with a force of Occuli."

The door opens and there's a trio of Fey Court soldiers. They toss you both a set of clothes. "Her Majesty has summoned you. You are to attend the next test of King Dagda's."

"What is that?" Julian says looking at the clothing. It's mostly soft fabrics and leathers.

"Hunting clothes." He says. "Queen Mab has decided that the test of King Dagda's will shall be a hunting trip. You two will be coming along with them"

>>25038112
>hunting
Oh boy! We love hunting! It's one of our few actual hobbies!

>>25038112
Well, we're a force of occuli.

>>25038152
You know Comedy is going to subvert this test into something horrible, right?

>>25038152
Finally a really good use for our eyes.

>>25038112
Oh, good, hunting!

Inspect the clothes carefully to make sure there isn't something untoward about them.

>>25038112
"Two gold says they don't fit one bit."
Then, when the elves leave,
"So, what do you think the chances are of them trying to arrange one of them hunting accidents? I'd be quite put off if that masked tart tried to ruin a hunting trip right after trying to ruin a dinner. Just rude."

>>25038197
>>25038205
well of COURSE it's going to be terrible.

But we still like hunting, we should take joy in that up until she pulls something awful.

>>25036676
By the way: I'm sorry I missed the second Q&A thread before, but I read it in the archives, and it was awesome.

And I noticed a certain two names of Liam's past companions, as well. I'm honored, thank you.

>>25038112
well that's not ominous at all!

>>25038112
Can't hurt to ask, and see if they answer: "And what will my liege be hunting today?"

>>25038224
"Two gold says they don't fit one bit." You say.

"Well, we're used to guests that are human, or dwarf." One of the soldiers says. "Lamia are...unusual. I wasn't even aware that you normally wore clothes."

"You will apologize to my niece." Julian says. He gives the elf a long hard glare. Even bandaged and weaponless, it's a thing of power.

The other two elves step away from the one who spoke.

The elf clears his throat. "Sorry." He says.

"Leave. Now." Julian growls.

"We'll be just outside the door." One says.

"Go." He says.

The elves retreat.

He looks at you and smiles. "I needed that."

You give your uncle a smile as you start to fasten up the clothing. Elves like their belts and straps. "So, what do you think the chances are of them trying to arrange one of them hunting accidents? I'd be quite put off if that masked tart tried to ruin a hunting trip right after trying to ruin a dinner. Just rude."

"It's probably a guarantee." He says. "You think she'll go for something involving the horse, the sport, or a supply?"

>>25038496
"Probably something dramatically ironic, unless she skips all pretense of wit and has us chase a friend or family-member."

>>25038496
"We'll almost certainly be going after something dangerous, since it's a hunt to prove kingship. Or something wily. So it'll be a problem with the sport if it's the first one, and the second one something will get 'im while he's tracking.

>>25038496
Did Ssen's training with Alexander ever take? Can Ssen even ride a horse?

Comedy is probably going to have us hunting some kind of Citadel-corrupted "monster", like lizardfolk, mer, or similar.

Or alternatively, perhaps we're not the hunters, but the hunted. Stealth mission time.

>>25038496
"The chances, you say? Not good. I bet it's going to be something psychological again, having Mage re-kill one of my friend's family members."

"Really, I'd call the whole thing a farce if only it were funny."

"Probably something dramatically ironic, unless she skips all pretense of wit and has us chase a friend or family-member."

Julian nods. "I've been hunted by elves before." He says. "Finding water is the key, run upstream, and then run down stream and back the way you came." He says to you quietly as he helps you with the strings in your back. "Probably wont work this time, but I fooled them twice in a row with that trick."

You nod. "We'll also almost certainly be going after something dangerous, since it's a hunt to prove kingship. Or something wily. So it'll be a problem with the sport if it's the first one, and the second one something will get 'im while he's tracking." You say. "But, I bet it's going to be something psychological again, having Mage re-kill one of my friend's family members.

"Really, I'd call the whole thing a farce if only it were funny."

"Well, they do need to be returned to the earth, sooner than later. As for keeping the boy safe, I've done a little bodyguard work over the years." Julian says. "Ignore anything they say about being 'capable of defending themselves,' always be near the person, and well..." He smiles at you. "This time try to make sure that the bolt misses both of you." He adjusts the shoulders. "You wear this a bit too low. Your father always did as well. He thought it made his pauldrons look too big and foolish. You shouldn't let HIS vanity affect YOUR survival."

>>25038761
"I wonder what he would think, to see me wearing armor and a mantle? Happy, or sad? Or both?"

>>25038761
Have we told Julian about adopting Mage as our brother? We should.

>>25038761
"Ah, well, I plan on sticking close to him. As close as the elves will let me. Thanks for the advice, though."

And then move on with the mushy fatherly questions that I cna't think of right now

>>25038761
"I'll definitely stick close to him, and guard him as much as I can, but this trial is for him to prove something to them, and I'll have to take care to avoid interfering with that. But if it's between that and his life, I'll do whatever it takes to save him. He would do the same for me."

"I'll definitely stick close to him, and guard him as much as I can, or as much as the elves will let me. This trial is for him to prove something to them, however, and I'll have to take care to avoid interfering with that. But if it's between that and his life, I'll do whatever it takes to save him. He would do the same for me." You say. "I adopted him you know. He's a Patrick now."

"I wonder what he would think, to see me wearing armor and a mantle? Happy, or sad? Or both?"

He sighs and smiles at you. "Proud." He sighs. "Then he'd tell us to get to work."

>>25039084
"Sounds like him; we'd better adhere to his wishes!"

we better try to do some damage-control re: Peri and Lea as well, who knows how they've held out through the night.

>>25039084
Laugh. "That sounds about right. Let's get to work, then."

Let's go find the others, first, see what grief their roommates gave them, and see if anyone needs a paladin glare. Then find "Dagda" and see what we're in for.

Well, it's almost the moment of truth.

CAN ssen ride a horse? WILL the horse collapse under the weight? HOW rediculous will she look?

Tune in!

>>25039233
Ssen weighs around 600 pounds. Short of Lightmare, I don't think any horse could carry her on its back.

>>25039256
girl needs to go running

>>25039283
It's all muscle. Ssen is ludicrously strong, hence the ability to wrap and crush.

>>25039306
well, and the digestive tract that is just sort of OK with eating any part of an animal.

>>25039306
THAT'S WHAT THEY ALL SAY NOW GO RUN FATTY

>>25039326
"part"? What's this "part" business?

>>25039336
A. she can't run
and B. she's probably going to be keeping up on "foot" with the horses if she intends on going on this hunt. Good exercise, that.

>>25039336
But she ain't got no legs anon!

>>25039369
>A. she can't run

I get the feeling that was the joke.

>>25039084
"I hope it's still morning. I always appreciate the dew."

Our dreams inform me this is so!

>>25039128
You laugh. "That sounds about right, we'd better adhere to his wishes. Let's get to work, then."

You two go out to the room. The elves escort you through the innards of the court and then up into fresh air.

It's just before dawn, judging by the position of the light. The whole party is here. Mab, with her mass of hair tied up in a long looped braid. Mage in his yellow boots. The other Dawnchasers are also there with their 'loved ones' they all look to be in different stages in Misery.

"Where's your daughter?" Julian asks.

"Thistleblossom dislikes hunting parties." Mab says. "She always has."

Ah, so this was Mab's plan to try and keep Thisleblossom away from her task.

"My husband's will was unbreakable, and his mind was sharp." She says. "That is why I wish to see it displayed. We shall go on the same hunt we did all those years ago, do you remember?"

"Yes, my love." Mage says. "It's was on the...fif-

"Fou-" Mab says.

"Fourth age of the Last Summers...we had just rejoined and were on our hunting trip for the feast." Mage says. "But there was no boar to be found! A hard winter had driven the further north than usual, and they had yet to return."

Mari stares at him dumbfounded. So do you, you don't remember Mage learning any of this stuff from Peri at all.

"And so, we were despondent and bored as we searched for no game...and that's when my lady love saw it. A little flying squirrel hopping from tree to tree." He sighs at the 'memory.' "So, we decided to hunt that! Oh, it was a thrilling chase, tricky too." He nods. "And I'm ashamed to say that on that day, the great King and Queen of the elves lost their prey...but we tried it again the next year." He nods. "I named that little squirrel to be the True King of the Hunt, and today we go in search of that prey once more."

Mab claps her hands and laughs. "How droll! We haven't hunted for the True King in ages." She nods.

(Cont)

>>25039599
Oh man, what the crap is all of this. Mab helping mage? Hunting a flying squirrel? Comedy isn't here?

Obviously something bad is going to happen. It's just an unknown unknown right now.

>>25039625
Mab helping mage makes sense; check Q&A thread 2 in the archive for why.

But yeah, there's no way thinksshe'sawesome is going to stay out of this.

>>25039641
also, we're supposed to... NOT catch the squirrel? Is that the challenge?

>>25039599
"Is there any but Dagda who would know the identity of the True King of the hunt?" Mab says. "Come! Bring forth our hunting beasts. We shall ride!"

Mag does a double take as a pair of large hinds are brought up to the pair.

"You said horses!" You hear Mage whisper to Mab.

"I said hunting beasts, it's close enough." She snaps back.

The pair mount their beasts, and the group slowly starts to walk into the forest. Mage and Mab scanning the trees, searching for the True King.

"Where did Mage learn all of that?" Tricia asks.

"No idea." Mari says. "How're you doing?"

"Fine. I poured a jug of mollasses over auntie's head and that shut her up. You?"

"Peri's okay, but she doesn't trust herself outside alongside Donovan until we get the go ahead to kill him." Mari says.

"I thought she couldn't hurt him because she loved him?" Tricia asks.

"She couldn't...but that was before the zombie thing. Apparently now she's okay with it." Mari says. "I'm more worried about Lea."

"Yeah." Tricia nods.

Lea is walking two steps behind her father. Her hood up and head down.

"Ssen, any ideas? Think we should try to arrange an 'accident' for these...things?"

>>25039698
>"Ssen, any ideas? Think we should try to arrange an 'accident' for these...things?"

Was that Tricia asking?

>>25039698
"Until we know more, it's hard to plan much. Just be alert, and ready to spring into action."

>>25039698
Huh, we spent so long worrying that Comedy would arrange an 'accident' for us that we didn't consider doing the exact same thing to the zombies.

We should definitely do so if we see an opportunity.

>>25039698
"I would prefer we didn't- there's already going to be the one accident whenever comedy plays her cards, I don't see a reason to make more. Though, we should perhaps get lea away from her father. It might be prudent."

>>25039698
"Tricia's aunt seems obnoxious but mostly harmless so far. Donovan is evil, but Mari and Peri seem to have things under control there. Lea's father is one of the most evil people I've ever met short of the Dramatae themselves, and evil in the insidious style of Citadel itself. But we should focus on the hunt and on whatever stunts 'Thistleblossom' tries to pull today, not on trying to pull our own."

>>25039698
"We really should try to get Lea away from her father at least, and if an opportunity comes up for an 'accident', no reason not to."

>>25039698
Check in with Lea, make sure she isn't doing too bad.

>>25039369
>>25039374
>>25039380
I'm sorry, I just hate fat people

>>25039805
Self-loathing is a terrible thing, anon.

>>25039816
not that so much as every god damn fat person I know has always stolen food and lied about it. like a goddamn sweaty raccoon

>>25039848
Stop projecting that into the quest.

>>25039866
I'm sorry. I'll try

>>25039872
...that's entirely the opposite of the response I expected. Thank you most kindly.

"I would prefer we didn't- there's already going to be the one accident whenever Comedy plays her cards, I don't see a reason to make more.

"Your aunt is obnoxious but mostly harmless so far. Donovan is evil, but you two seem to have things under control there.

"However, Lea's father is one of the most evil people I've ever met short of the Dramatae themselves, and evil in the insidious style of Citadel itself. But we should focus on the hunt and on whatever stunts 'Thistleblossom' tries to pull today, not on trying to pull our own.

"Either way, we really should try to get Lea away from her father at least."

They nod.

This is the strangest hunting party you've ever seen. You and Father tried to do a few, even attempted to lead a few once, before you both gave up as people got upset because of your presence.

You walk for a moment, pause as Mab and Mage scan the treeline, then walk some more. The other elves are talking and chatting among themselves, sharing wine, and mainly keeping an eye on you and Julian with their hands near their weapons. They're staying away from the others, mostly to stay away from their undead associates.

You slide up by Lea.

"Father, we're in the presence of a Paladin. Lady Paladin Ssen Patrick." She says.

"I am aware." He says. "We honor her presence, but we have nothing to say to her, so we remain respectfully silent. Correct, Lea?"

"Yes, Father." Lea says and keeps her eyes focused on the ground.

>>25039963
"I have things to say myself, however, so I would kindly request to speak with Lea in private."

>>25039963
Yeah, no, we're not putting up with that any longer. She's practically gone catatonic; this guy has done some serious damage and continues to do so.

"I always welcome your input and your views, Lea. I deeply appreciate it. Please feel free to speak whenever you wish; I would enjoy the conversation."

>>25039963
"She can say whatever she damn well pleases to me, and she'll be accompanying me from this point on."

>>25039963
"That's fine for one of you, since by all rights the dead should remain silent. But Lea has every right to speak whenever she feels. Because she's my friend and I value her opinion."

>>25039963
"The dead should remain silent, as anything else would be an abomination against the Light. However as your daughter is not yet deceased, I would consider her free to speak as much as she wishes."

>>25039963
This is just not right. When has Lea *ever* been hesitant to voice an opinion? She's as much the party moral compass as Ssen is, with even more veneration for the Light, and she never hesitates to speak up when she feels something needs saying. We need to say something to her to remind her of that.

>>25039963
"I will NOT have my friends be treated so shamefully. Lea, stay by my side. Let this arse stew by himself for a while."

Ain't nobody fucks with our bard/beatstick/preachybitch

>>25040156
We need to stand up for her is what we need to do

>>25040169
Exactly. But we need to do so in a way that helps remind her that she's never hesitated to stand up for herself.

>>25039963
"Are you seriously going to allow a walking corpse to order you around? His very existence is a travesty against everything you believe in. Come on Lea, I know you're stronger than this."

"That's fine for one of you, since by all rights the dead should remain silent. But Lea has every right to speak whenever she feels. Because she's my friend and I value her opinion." You say.

"In fact, I have things to say to her, so I would kindly request to speak with Lea in private."

Lea pauses in her steps.

"Father...the Paladin is requesting me." She says.

He stops but says nothing.

"Father, I have to talk to her."

He continues to be silent.

"Father, please don't be mad."

He's still silent.

"I'm sorry, Father." Lea says.

Lea's Father just walks onwards with the hunting party.

Lea's trying to keep her breathing regular. "Father?"

He says nothing and keeps walking.

Lea turns to you, her head still bent. "Yes, Paladin?"

>>25040182
It's going to take her time to recover from this, we need to do something now. She'd never let us sit through this

>>25040204
"What the hell are you doing, Lea? You've let a walking corpse cow you into submission within a day."

>>25040204
Hug her, and tell her that no matter what he says to her that she's our friend. We've valued her opinion from the start, even when she didn't think so highly of us. And that's why we're doing this. Because she's better than this, and she doesn't deserve this.

>>25040204
"Walk with me and Julian a while. I think time away from the old man might do you some good."

Honest and true!

I'm currently looking back at
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/24576392/#p24583141
and
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/24576392/#p24583249
here.

>>25040204
Put a hand under her chin, and raise her head up to meet Ssen's eyes.

"Until yesterday I thought you completely irrepressible. I've never known you to care so deeply for what others thought. You always did what was right, no matter what. You would speak up when you felt others needed guidance. And you are one of the most pious people I know, with faith as strong as any Paladin. You're better than this, Lea. You owe him nothing. You owe me nothing. Please, be yourself, Lea; you're an amazing person, and you shouldn't let anyone change that."

>>25040314
(I'm trying to get her to be strong enough to resist this on her own, as she said she wanted to be. She said she was tired of having to be saved from her own weakness or inability.)

>>25040204
"... he's following my orders, isn't he?"

Well, it's time for a paladin pep-talk, isn't it? Hands on the sides of her head, force Lea to tool us straight in the eyes.

"You are a far stronger person than your father ever was, Lea. Strong enough to make your own decisions, strong enough to fight for what you know is right, and even strong enough to stand up to him."

"I need you to be as strong as I know you are, Lea. Do you understand me?"

>>25040349
>"... he's following my orders, isn't he?"

Oh by the Light. He is, isn't he?

>>25040349
>>25040380
I don't know, he's given Lea the silent treatment to make her upset before, it seems to be one of his things.

>>25040400
True, but I can also easily see him taking the order literally just to spite both Ssen and Lea.

>>25040314
"I've never known someone to take 'if you don't have anything nice to say, say nothing at all' so literally. Though if that were really true he'd never say another word in his life."

>>25040417
And mentioning that he's literally an unthinking corpse might help start to snap Lea out of it.

>>25040453
Perhaps, yeah.

>>25040453
well, not unthinking.

but still a corpse.

>>25040204
"Lea. What do the Teachings have to say about necromancy? And please, give me the common translation, I prefer it."

>>25040400
>>25040417
Though in any event it'd be nice to try and convince her that he's giving her the silent treatment because he's an obedient, unthinking corpse, not because of something she said.

>>25040204
We could start with something simple, like asking her why she keeps her eyes downcast.

>>25040314

Seconded.

>>25040314
You put a hand under her chin and raise her head up so that you're eye to eye.

"What the hell are you doing, Lea? You've let a walking corpse cow you into submission within a day." You hiss at her.

"Until yesterday I thought you completely irrepressible. I've never known you to care so deeply for what others thought. You always did what was right, no matter what. You would speak up when you felt others needed guidance.

"And you are one of the most pious people I know, with faith as strong as any Paladin. You're better than this, Lea. You owe him nothing. You owe me nothing. Please, be yourself, Lea; you're an amazing person, and you shouldn't let anyone change that.

"You are a far stronger person than your father ever was, Lea. Strong enough to make your own decisions, strong enough to fight for what you know is right, and even strong enough to stand up to him.

"I need you to be as strong as I know you are, Lea. Do you understand me?"

"Walk with me and Julian a while. I think time away from the old man might do you some good."

Lea shakes her head. "I can't stand it!" She says. "He didn't say a word to me all night, just handed me the Teachings and had me read. I kept asking when I could quit...and he didn't say..." She shakes her head. "He never says anything...three months went by once, and he didn't say a word to me or my mother." She shudders. "He's never struck, or raised his voice...isn't my Father kind?" She swallows. "Ssen, I can't...I just can't. Please, just chop off his head or...or have Mage set him on fire, or have Tricia's bugs eat him. I DON"T CARE!"

>>25040615
After these messages, we'll be right back.

>>25040615
Hmm, perhaps a 'hunting accident' may be in order after all, since I would assume that we can't just kill one of the zombies openly without ruining the trials.

>>25040615
"We will deal with returning him to the ground soon enough. But in the meantime, why do you listen? He tears you down at every opportunity, and he has given you nothing but subtle hate without a shred of respect; why do you feel he has earned any respect in return? He's only kind like Citadel is kind, and every bit as evil."

>>25040644
Maybe we should ask Mab if perhaps a misplaced arrow or fireball would be frowned-upon.

I mean, she's clearly known our game from the beginning, and she's clearly working with us against Comedy in her own way. She probably even realizes that Ssen's the one in charge, and that we all benefit from depriving Comedy of one of her zombie tools.

>>25040615
"If he refuses to talk to you, then you can refuse to talk to him. On the topic of injuries, well, look out for when comedy makes her move. Maybe we'll get lucky and turn it to our advantage."

So, do we really want to arrange a hunting accident? I mean, that's not really our style.

Also we can kill them perfectly legitimately once we get comedy out of power on grounds of being undead and also probably wanting to die anyway, if our mother is any barometer.

>>25040975
I'm worried about waiting, because Lea is clearly freaking out, and this whole trial thing is going to go on another night at least.

>>25040933
Speaking of which, I'm just waiting for an opportunity to take the psychological warfare to Comedy. Because someone who thinks bringing people's family back from the dead to torture them is funny is just one step short of the laughing academy.

>>25041040
Comedy is completely crazy, this has been established.

Remember we were told about her 'parties'.

>>25041040
We just have to steal her punchline. I fucking KNOW she's been setting up for an aristocrats joke

>>25041065
She's not crazy. Not yet. Twisted, sure, I'll grant you that, but she's still more or less in control.

All she needs is a little push.

>>25041162
but are those an in-universe joke?

if so, we must steal it

>>25041065
What were we told about the parties, I can't remember the specifics.

>>25041271
Jello is an in-universe thing. It's a safe bet. Plus, if she's making the joke, and the joke's nature remains the same, it's a fair bet that we know it. Up to echo of course but god damnit do I want to steal her fucking punchline

>>25041309
They sound exactly like your typical aristocrats joke

>>25041309
It was basically an exercise in cramming as many atrocities as possible into a short space of time.

The bitch eats babies.

>>25041340
And possibly has sex with them, can't quite remember

>>25041340
... they're tender and juicy.

>>25041330
To be fair, we forced Echo to make Jello canon

>>25041340
>>25041370
stop thinking about how delicious people are.

Regardless of how elves smell like delicious chocolate. You're not allowed to eat them.

>>25041717
I'm just saying, veal is the best kind of cow, suckling pig is the best kind of pig, nuggets are the best kind of chicken... so it stands to reason that baby is the best kind of human.

>>25041767
>implying nuggets contain chicken.

>>25041767
We still don't get to use the "minute on the lips, lifetime on the hips" joke.

>>25041767
>I'm just saying, veal is the best kind of cow, suckling pig is the best kind of pig, nuggets are the best kind of chicken... so it stands to reason that baby is the best kind of human.

4chan, ladies and gentlemen.

>Ssen, whatcha thinkin' about?
>NOTHING! Nothing at all!

I think the problem is that at this point, Ssen has missed both dinner AND breakfast.

Shoulda eaten them rabbits.

>>25040615

Intentional neglect is as insidious of a method of control as any other. Your father isn't kind, he's cunning and controlling and evil; or at the very least, an asshole of epic proportions.

File: 1369534463043.png-(11 KB, 429x410, 1311746523660.png)

11 KB PNG

>>25041767
>thinks nuggets are baby chickens

>>25041954
You know, if we hit Lea's father with enough of the Holy Teachings while we're away from Comedy, we might be able to get him to kill himself.

Or, re-kill himself. You know.

File: 1369534594936.jpg-(10 KB, 247x204, 1321827338175.jpg)

10 KB JPG

>>25041975
>thinks they're not

>>25041975
Is that not how you make yours?

>>25041989
Don't let him frame the parameters to be about the Teachings.

>>25041989

He probably knows that he's being a control freak, and knows that the best veneer to hide behind is that of righteousness. I'm going to wager that won't really do anything to phase him.

>>25042024
agreed.
if he wasn't a massive massive douche and actually cared about the teachings he'd going insane about being a walking undead abomination.

>>25042020
>>25042024
Eh, I'm just spitballing while Echo is out. I really like the idea of finding a way to shit on Comedy's plans, though.

>>25042073
Eh, I dunno. I think these SPECIFIC zombies should die, because they've obviously been made wrong as a joke and thus are suffering constantly. I don't know how I'd feel about a well made zombie, especially one made out of the body of the soul who wants to come back.

>>25042073
You know something, I want to know why isn't Odette here. She been one of the more vocal antagonists to us. Maybe Citadel can't raise paladins?

>>25042183
It would contradict the story Citadel already wove around her, including her sickeningly peaceful death.

>>25042183

Because no one in our party loved her. Comedy (the thing, not the bitch) is about irony. So obviously Comedy (the bitch, not the thing) is about bad irony.

I'm currently digging back into the archives for something, and noticed an interesting prediction:

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/24173024/#p24173283
>I feel like this is important. We've done something to Tragedy personally and not as a Humor. Maybe he's the relative of Mari's grandmother?

That was in thread 27, and with just about nothing foreshadowing it at that point other than that we'd somehow affected Tragedy personally. Impressive.

>>25042219
>"Personal issues don't count." Comedy says. "I didn't bitch about my baby Donnie!"

Is Donovan related to Comedy

>>25042219
>implying our leviathan brain hasn't already plotted the way this story will go
Of course it has. It's just it's also plotted 50 ways it won't go. And we don't know which is which.

>>25042258
yes.

>>25042274
Are we inferring, or has that been stated?

Ah, found the reference for the insane parties:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/24343226/#p24348776
>"I've always done stupid things when I get into one of my moods. One day I was walking by and I saw this girl at a fruit stand. She wasn't doing anything, but I just suddenly wanted to hit her...and I did. I hit her and ran, and it felt so incredibly good...I confessed to that before. And I've hurt myself or others when I feel sad, like how I just couldn't get out of bed...or felt that if I smashed one of Jeremy's nicer pots then i would feel better." She sniffed. "I killed about eight goats from the shrine. And Trivalon he took me to these places. One was this large house in the middle of the fields, and the other was this garden place. It was at night, of course. There...I watched as these masked people did...the strangest things. These exotic foods that they would eat with just their hands, all the sex, they'd gamble or play games and then...then they'd bring out the shows. People would fist fight to the death for them...or..." She shudders. "They took a living man, and me and the sisters killed him, butchered him, cooked him, and ate him...the Passions and the Dramatae had samples." She looks sick. "They called it 'enjoying the fruits of their labor.' They talk about Citadel constantly...and I loved those parties...I felt like I was walking on a cloud...and I was SANE then. I don't know why...but I was sane." She sobs. "I drank the blood of a four year old. You can't forget that! I can't forgive myself for that! They laughed and applauded! I bowed...oh by his Light." She breaks down sobbing again.

>>25042258
So far, we only know that Donovan was someone Comedy cared about. That could just mean that Donovan was Comedy's pet project to screw with things. Given that Donovan was Peri's last attempt to pull the Dagda con, and Comedy is playing Thistleblossom, it might just be that she was plotting something or there might be more to it than that. We don't know yet.

>>25042288
I'm inferring. I don't think it's been DIRECTLY stated, but it's totally true.

>>25042292
>They took a living man, and me and the sisters killed him, butchered him, cooked him, and ate him...the Passions and the Dramatae had samples.

Well, at least they did it in that order.

>>25042316
Probably her son, or direct descendant. the way she calls him her 'baby donnie'.

"We will deal with returning him to the ground soon enough. But in the meantime, why do you listen? He tears you down at every opportunity, and he has given you nothing but subtle hate without a shred of respect; why do you feel he has earned any respect in return? He's only kind like Citadel is kind, and every bit as evil.

"If he refuses to talk to you, then you can refuse to talk to him. On the topic of injuries, well, look out for when comedy makes her move. Maybe we'll get lucky and turn it to our advantage." You say.

Lea shudders and then holds you. "He's my father." Is all she says. "I hate him...but he's my Father." She shudders. "I can't...I can't." She sighs. "I'm sorry."

She nods. "I can't...it's just..." She sighs. "I know." She shakes her head. "But just having him speak to me a little..." She hugs you tighter. "I'm sorry."

>>25042478
"Well Lea....He's not the only family you have."

>>25042478
"Whatever you do, never believe you are any less of a person because he thinks it. He has no power over you but what you give to him."

>>25042516
That's really touching, and exactly the kind of thing she needs right now.

>>25042478
Hug her back.

"You are one of if not the strongest willed person I know. You actually were able to talk me down from my position as the little dragon, when everyone else went along with it, not knowing how I might react then. You were brave enough then and I know you can be brave enough now."

>>25042388
"and if we are really really lucky they'll do it in that order"
not my favorite episode but a good line

>>25042528
Wasn't trying to quote that, though it did cross my mind.

>>25042478
"Would you have had an easier time breaking away from him if he hit you? Because to me, it seems as if he has done far worse. Bruises heal, but the damage he did has yet to."

>>25042516
Yeah, this is pretty short'n'sweet.

Also hug returning, because we've NEVER let someone hang on a hug, according to my tally. Not ever.

>>25042583
What about when we took the bolt for Isen? I bet Tricia tried to hug us a lot during those three months by the bedside, and we never returned it once.

>>25042607
We're slowly working our way through the hug backlog every chance we get.

"You are one of if not the strongest willed person I know. You actually were able to talk me down from my position as the little dragon, when everyone else went along with it, not knowing how I might react then. You were brave enough then and I know you can be brave enough now." You say. "Whatever you do, never believe you are any less of a person because he thinks it. He has no power over you but what you give to him."

You push her a little bit away, still having your hands on her shoulder. "Anyway, he's not the only family you have."

Lea nods. She takes off her hood. "Don't worry, as soon as we get through this, I'll be back to giving you and the others a hard time about everything, like usual." She smiles at you. "Thank you. This...this isn't going to make this easier, or better...but thank you. I can get through this."

"Hey, you two!" Tricia says. "Come on, Mab and 'Dagda' are in swift pursuit of the squirrel!"

"How long do we have to DO this?" Mari asks.

"Sunset." Tricia says. "Though we may break for a lunch."

>>25042607
Well, she could have always sort of... grabbed our arms and wrapped them around her.

Totally not tragic at all, nope.

>>25042685
Well, time to go hunting.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSUXXzN26zg

>>25042685
"So, I'm still kind of confused. We're trying to catch the thing? Or not?"

Add pants and huffs in as necessary, since we don't have any things to ride and I assume everyone else does.

Remember julian's advice.

Stay close to mage.

>>25042765
Indeed. Keep up with the front of the pack. We also want to hear any conversations "Dagda" is involved in so we can keep up the charade, though it's wildly helpful that "Mab" is in on it.

>>25042685
wait, so Mab's idea for a 'challenge' is to run through the forest chasing squirrels, with a break for lunch?
I'm starting to like Mab.

>>25042914
She's likeable. Hope mage hooks up with her

>>25042685
"Oh, I do hope we take lunch. I'm famished!"

>>25042914
>>25042924
It's our sisterly duty to make sure mage gets a lady who is good enough for him.

A queen might be good enough. MIGHT be.

>>25042957
"So, as is elven tradition, I must ask a relative to assist in arranging the marriage between Mage Patrick and myself. He named you, do you find my station acceptable?"
>Hmmmmmmmm.......
"W....What?"
>Hmmmmmmmm....... Perhaps.

>>25042685
"a lunch break? Mab might be the best crazed ruler we've encountered yet."

>>25042990
She's not particularly crazed actually. But, Ssen doesn't know that

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7mf-AV_9hQ

You catch up to Mage and Mab who have paused and are scanning the tree line. "So, I'm still kind of confused. We're trying to catch the thing? Or not?" You ask.

"The True King of the Hunt is uncatchable, only it's mortal shell can be brought down to the mud before, like the Fey themselves, he rises again. Knowing that it is not the prey, but the chase. The chase is all that matters." Mab says.

"No." Mage says. He looks around. "Mab, your attendants are too loud. They are frightening off the True King. Have them hang back, servant," He looks at you. "Follow us for a bit, we wish to use your skills as a hunter for a moment."

"You heard your king!" Mab snaps. "Hang back with our guests, we shall not be disturbed during our sacred commune with the pursuit."

Mage, you, and Mab ride up deeper into the woods a few times. Then Mage and Mab stop their beasts and get down.

"Alright, we've got about five minutes of peace and quiet before we need to do the act again." Mage says. He gestures to Mab. "Say your piece, Maxine."

"Please my king." She winks at Mage and slaps his ass as she gets off her hind. "YOU can call me Max." She smiles. "You're little brother's a lot of fun." She's completely changed from the regal Queen Mab that was at dinner before. She hands you a parchment. "These are our demands to the True Paladins and your King Isen."

"I told her most about what was going on." Mage says. "Maxine's hands are really restricted by the nature of elf magic, but she's willing to play ball."

"Yeah, well...I've had enough of my crazy fuck relatives play this role." She says. "I'm sick of living in dirt too."

The demands are pretty slanted in their favor. The current elven rulership of Titania and Oberon who reside on the Citadel Council are to be no longer recognized as legitimate authority, and their legal decrees declared null and void.

(cont)

File: 1369538789666.gif-(1.96 MB, 235x240, 1354880751096.gif)

1.96 MB GIF

>>25043113
>She winks at Mage and slaps his ass as she gets off her hind. "YOU can call me Max." She smiles. "You're little brother's a lot of fun."
You go Mage.

>>25043113
>True Paladins and your King Isen
Heheheh. Isen, you will be King. Or else.

You know, I'd love to be for this, but I have no idea what legal decrees those elves have made. They could have been "It's illegal to kick puppies" decrees!

>>25043166
We need to ask mage if he put a leaf on his jimmy. Don't want no half-elf half-ghouls running around nine months from now.

>>25043113
All Citadel troops, human citizens, and 'Citadel Corrupted' elves are to leave the First Wood area. Mab's promised peaceful exodus, and states that they can take all their belongings.

The Fey Court will pay reparations for several events that they list, but only if Citadel also repays them in kind. The list looks like Citadel will end up paying more.

Mab wants a huge loan from the Bronze Peak Bank, at an absurdly low interest rate. This is for rebuilding and reparations.

She also wants a formal apology from Lord Paladin Julian Graves for some things she considers war crimes, in person and in writing, done publicly.

Finally, Maxine Rollands is to receive an exceptionally LARGE amount of gold, and an estate in Stone Hall. As a 'personal gift to the new Elven Ambassador to make her feel welcome in her new home.' Her estate will have servants, beachfront property, and she'll also receive a generous stipend for her ambassadorial duties.

"In return, you'll get the Fey Court, and I'll throw in the Amber Memories, and tell YOUR people how to tap into the Elven Tradition Magic." She nods. "And we'll also help you sack Citadel when the time comes."

>>25043237
Beachfront property........THATS OUR LIGHTHOUSE DAMNIT

>>25043237
Time to start haggling.

>>25043237
We can't aford that loan, fuck, we need mumei here. Also, why didn't we kidnap a harpy friend?

>>25043237
...Where might this 'beachfront property' be?

>>25043237
If she's running away to Stone Hall with a massive pension and a beach house who's going to be Queen Mab?

>>25043294
Who might the servants be? She's not getting our fucking hot tub. Or our crazed mer-friend. Or any of our crazed friends for that matter.

>>25043318
Actually, having Dana work for her might be hilarious.

File: 1369539479324.gif-(435 KB, 250x141, 1348351706173.gif)

435 KB GIF

>>25043237
Nooooooooo we need to reach out with our mind and call Mumei to our side

>>25043228
They're on the Citadel Council. I think it's safe to bet their decrees are not in our best interests.

>>25043113
>>25043237
"I'm inclined to agree with this, with a few caveats.

Citadel troops and citizens need not be welcome here or elsewhere, but once Citadel falls, I expect that normal non-evil humans and others will be welcome in elven lands as much as elves are welcome in other lands.

Beyond an apology, Julian will not face any charges for anything he has done, no matter how you view his actions.

Finally, Bronze Peak and Stone Hall can barely afford to feed their own people right now, let alone offer you a loan that good *and* a luxurious retirement. We are doing what we can to help with the rebuilding of Stone Hall and the recovery of Bronze Peak, and we will do what we can for you equally, but what you ask would destroy one town to save another.

Decide what matters more to you: a cozy retirement or the recovery of your lands and people; we cannot afford both."

>>25043301
I'd like to know that as well. Because we need someone other than Comedy to take power.

>>25043362
(For what it's worth, the apology from Julian grates on me heavily, but words are cheap, and that bit isn't worth fighting against when it'll cost us something else.)

>>25043283
Because we forgot how terrible we are at finance.

"You know, some of these terms are acceptable, but others make me think you're highballing us. Beachfront property? My goodness!"

"Not to mention how I've no idea how we're going to scrape together that much money. Bronze peak's still recovering from it's loan fiasco."

"If Maxine Rollands is running away to Stone Hall, who's going to be Queen Mab?" You ask.

Max shrugs. "They'll pick someone else. All I know, is that once this madness blows over, and there's no one for the Court to fight? Then elves will start playing the classic politic game of 'stab you in the back,' I'm good...but I'm getting WAY too old for that shit. This is my retirement plan."

>>25043237
We can't do the loan or the pension, but we can do the beach house and the removal of troops. The reparations might be a bit hard though.

>>25043237
>Amber Memories

The reference for these:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/24849618/#p24850518
Ambrose thought they might have the Grand Seal.

>>25043393
So....by "beachfront property" I'm really hoping you just mean we'll be neighbors.

>>25043393
As long as she sticks around long enough to make good on taking down Citadel.

>>25043429
but we're REALLY not going to take down citadel militarily. A sacking of it is right out. We might need them to help us evacuate the place, perhaps, before it falls down and catches on fire.

>>25043451
We need whatever help they can offer, and if she scarpers before she follows through on what she's promising then no deal.

>>25043429
>>25043451
>>25043464
SHE WANTS OUR GOD DAMN HOUSE. AND OUR GOD DAMN FRIENDS. Those are OUR friends damnit! She can make her own!!!

>>25043393
"I thought you said you were through with your crazy relatives being mab? I need some assurance the elven state we help create won't just dissolve into infighting, backstabbing, and warfare."

>>25043481
>Finally, Maxine Rollands is to receive an exceptionally LARGE amount of gold, and an estate in Stone Hall. As a 'personal gift to the new Elven Ambassador to make her feel welcome in her new home.' Her estate will have servants, beachfront property, and she'll also receive a generous stipend for her ambassadorial duties.

Please tell me where does it say our friends and our lighthouse? Please do.

Instead of being a screaming like a fucking moron.

>>25043515
>Instead of screaming like a fucking moron.

Note to self don't Tank and Type.

>>25043515
What other beachfront properties are there? The place was sacked

>>25043515
This.

A lighthouse is not exceptionally large.

>>25043393
"After Citadel's economic system disappears, what is considered a "large" sum of money is likely going to change."

"Of course Uncle Julian will also have to be informed, and I would prefer that any recognition of "war crimes" be symmetrical."

"Finally, you may not be aware, but Bronze Peak is flat broke. That part of it is just not going to happen."

"So while I get the gist of what you're doing here, the details are going to have to be subject to later discussion. Both because you're clearly giving us unfavorable terms, and because once Citadel is gone it's going to be a completely different situation."

>>25043530
Jee, I don't know fucking build one? I'm sure not every fucking house was sacked.

>>25043536
It's got a hot tub. That's like, 6 rooms if we're doing point-buy.

"I'm inclined to agree with this, with a few caveats.

"One, you need to stick around long enough to make good on taking down Citadel.

"Citadel troops and citizens need not be welcome here or elsewhere, but once Citadel falls, I expect that normal non-evil humans and others will be welcome in elven lands as much as elves are welcome in other lands.

"Beyond an apology, Julian will not face any charges for anything he has done, no matter how you view his actions.

"Finally, Bronze Peak and Stone Hall can barely afford to feed their own people right now, let alone offer you a loan that good *and* a luxurious retirement. We are doing what we can to help with the rebuilding of Stone Hall and the recovery of Bronze Peak, and we will do what we can for you equally, but what you ask would destroy one town to save another.

"Decide what matters more to you: a cozy retirement or the recovery of your lands and people; we cannot afford both."

Maxine turns to Mage. "You told me that you were rich!"

"I SAID that we had started our own bank." Mage says. "YOU just assumed we were rich!"

Maxine narrows her eyes at him. "Clever little bastard kept his mouth shut..." She mutters. "Fine, I'm happy to negotiate on terms regarding that loan, but we'll need that money if we want to rebuild our home. You saw what happened to it."

"Your own forces did that!"

"Oh, you mean the forces that were led by Comedy, a bitch YOU describe as being part of Citadel?" Maxine says. "As far as I'm concerned, Citadel torched the village, they just used us as a weapon."

"And I still want my retirement package. That's non-negotiable." She says. "Broke or not, I don't care."

>>25043551
Hope you like being a tool for Citadel then. Maybe a break after you die.

>>25043603
I feel like you missed a sentence or two in your thoughts there.

>>25043551
You knooow... Princess Mumei has a mansion she's not using right now...

>>25043551
"We can get you lodgings as an ambassador in Stone Hall, possibly beachfront too. Can't promise much beyond that."

>>25043603
Her main priority here is getting the fuck out of dodge before the political backstabbings start.

>>25043616
no, it's not a big deal to get her a place on the beach. Heck, her retirement itself isn't that big of a deal.

But we need somebody to run elfington! Somebody not-crazy!

>>25043551
"You're more than welcome to retire to Stone Hall, and there's more than enough beach to go around. We'd certainly welcome you as a neighbor. We'll see what we can do to allow you to retire in relative comfort, emphasis on the relative. We can probably arrange enough of a stipend that you don't need to work for a living if you don't want to. The lump sum of gold and servants on top of that is unlikely unless Citadel is sitting on untold treasures to be liberated."

>>25043551
After this, we need to give Mage the biggest hug. "Clever little bastard indeed, brother."

>>25043652
I like it, except for that last part.

Replace it with something like "Unlikely, because a lot of the wealth of the land will dry up when citadel falls, and times will be harsh."

>>25043685
That works.

>>25043551
We can do the beach front property no problem. Maybe one or two 'servants' and moderate stipend. But nothing THIS large.

So, we adjust terms to be something along the lines of:

No, you don't get FABULOUS WEALTH. Just a retirement.

Elf lands will pay a fair amount on loans.

There won't actually be a sacking of citadel, but emergency support might be needed.

An apology might be in order, we don't mind that too much, we'll consult with julian.

I don't know about the disregarding of the elves on the council- didn't we intend to keep citadel's government intact even if we collapse the city itself via soul-freeing?

>>25043618
"We can get you lodgings as an ambassador in Stone Hall, possibly beachfront too. We'd certainly welcome you as a neighbor. We'll see what we can do to allow you to retire in relative comfort, emphasis on the relative.

"We can probably arrange enough of a stipend that you don't need to work for a living if you don't want to. The lump sum of gold, and servants on top of that. is unlikely unless Citadel is sitting on untold treasures to be liberated.

Can't promise much beyond that."

"Hmmph." Maxine pouts. "Oh, and there's to be no repercussions or follow up regarding any crimes the Fey Court has committed. If your Julian gets off scot free, than so do we."

"We'll need to ensure that the next Mab isn't going to start up a new war." Mage says.

"That can be filed under 'Things in the Future That Are Not My Problem.' dear Husband." She rolls her eyes. "Since 'Mab' is probably going to 'pass away' once this is over, and I assume you WONT, then that'll be YOUR job."

"You know, you WILL be ambassador. That comes with duties." Mage says.

"Like drinking on my porch as I watch the tides come in as I dine on clams." Maxine says. "I'm giving you the Fey Court, I think I deserve what I'm owed."

>>25043760
I'm satisfied with this.

"Well, King Dagda, what say you to this fine arrangement?"

>>25043783
Well, it's almost there. I think we should mention that citadel won't need to be sacked really.

>>25043803
Sure, we should make the situation clear. We may still need their help against Citadel forces, but yeah, they shouldn't be under the impression that we're gunning for war here if we can help it.

We've already specified non-citadel humans and etcetera will be allowed in, right?

Or was that unsaid?

>>25043935
We did say that:

>>25043551
>"Citadel troops and citizens need not be welcome here or elsewhere, but once Citadel falls, I expect that normal non-evil humans and others will be welcome in elven lands as much as elves are welcome in other lands.

She didn't actually answer, but she didn't object.

>>25043943
well, I can't think of any major problems with it then.

Other than having to shuffle around citadel political figures blind. It's a bit of a gamble there.

>>25043962
oh, also, the mass exodous might be... tricky. How do we deal with it without having even MORE grass-roots terrorism?

>>25043760
"Well, I'm fine with most of this. Be warned, though, we're probably not actually sacking citadel. It's going to need, perhaps, help evacuating when the whole pile of cards comes down, but not a sacking."

"Also, we don't plan on 'sacking' Grand Citadel." You say.

Maxine looks at Mage again. "You said...ohh you little sneak."

Mage nods. "I said we were building an army against Citadel's."

She shakes her head at him and then back to you. "Alright, let's make this quick."

Mage gets out a quill and some ink and grabs the list of demands. He scribbles on them so that it's a bit closer to what you said.

After the expulsion of Citadel forces, the elves will re-open their borders and allow settlers, on THEIR terms.

Julian will give his apology, but gets full immunity. Same with the Fey Court.

The reparations, since they're Citadel's are not the responsibility of Stone Hall and Bronze Peak.

Maxine will get a beachfront property, and a stipend as the ambassador.

Finally, before Maxine retires, Mab will remain long enough to ensure the completion of these terms.

"You sure you'll be able to complete this without someone becoming Mab in your place?" Mage asks.

"We're signing a contract in the woods, in ink, sap, and blood." Maxine says. "This has Tradition behind it, it'll be enough to get me through the woods...but I may need a few loyal Paladins to come in an knock a few heads together."

>>25044069
"You'll have at least one. Two, if Julian can grit his teeth enough to work with you after this."

>>25044069
>sap
Oh, is it that one poisonous sap that we used to like to snack on?

We've not had a chance to get any more for near a year now.

>>25044069
>same with the fey court
This wording could be technically used to force the elves to apologize to julian.

I approve HEARTILY.

>>25044150
Hah! I like that.

>>25044069
You know, I can't help but feel we are forgetting something. I don't know what.

"You'll have at least one. Two, if Julian can grit his teeth enough to work with you after this." You say.

As Mab prepares the sap and ink mixture, Mage shows you the terms he's written. You notice that the writing is a little loose around the bit about Julian's apology...to the point where he could get one in return. Mage gives you a wink.

"I know we have to be morally righteous and such, but..." He shrugs. "Sometimes, pride matters."

Maxine comes up with a bottle of the prepared substance, three needle pricks and a few drops of blood later, you have the contract in your pack.

"There's still Comedy's test." 'Mab' says as she gets back on the hind and back into character. "I can't get you out of that."

"The test of love, right?" Mage asks.

"Yes, but that just leaves all sorts of horrid things to the imagination." She says.

>>25044302
Robin's grave last request?

>>25044316
"Mage Patrick, I expect you to wear a leaf. I don't want any half-ghouls running around."

>>25044324
will this interfere with that in any way?

Also, WE NEED TO PICK UP THAT MANIFESTO SHIT

>>25044355
Pfffhaha... actually, who's to say mage shouldn't have kids?

"I don't suppose we could just... have her indisposed for the duration of the choosing of the next test? Are there any princessly duties we could send her of on?"

>>25044401
Mage can reproduce all he wants, just not before Citadel falls.

>>25044409
yeah okay.

>>25044355
Careful giving him direct orders; remember that because of the Dragon Servant thing he might actually have to follow them. Good advice, just phrase it more carefully; wouldn't want him to never have kids.

>>25044471
Nor do we want him running around with a big oak leaf over his crotch the rest of his days.

>>25044316
"Can you tell us a bit more about that one? What have past tests like that entailed, or what can you guess from the stories?"

>>25044496
Thank you for that mental image...

>>25044498
>>25044498
Yes...let's get back on topic.

>>25044316
Chime in and defend our brother's honor, here. "Hey, I hate Comedy's sick ingenuity as much as you do, but try not to act like Mage wouldn't be quite the catch."

>>25044498
"Can you tell us a bit more about that one? What have past tests like that entailed, or what can you guess from the stories?" You ask as you head back to the hunting party.

"There's been duels, feats like walking across coals, or picking your lover out of a room of people while you're blindfolded, gagged, and have your ears muffled." She sighs. "But that sadistic little twerp threw all sanity out the window when she started to chop off heads." Maxine shakes her head. "Now, don't talk to me anymore, I have to appear to be regal."

>>25044571
"Yes ma'am. Let's go back to regally chasing squirrels."

>>25044571
"Why, yes, of course. By the way, there's a squirrel right. there."

Point to the squirrel. Because we totally see it. What, you think you can hide from us squirrel?

>>25044555
ever the wingman

"Why, yes, of course. By the way, there's a squirrel right. there." You point at a squirrel that's been watching you the whole time.

"Come, husband!" She says. "The True King of the Hunt is waiting for us!"

"Yes, my beloved." Mage says. "Let us gather the others, so that our hunt may resume! Come servant!" He says snapping at you.

Maaaaybe he's getting a bit too into this role.

Anyway, it's just a few more hours until sunset. You think as you head back to the others. Then this day will be over, and you can figure out on how to counter Comedy's last test.

"Ssen!" You hear Tricia call out when you get to the clearing where the others were waiting. "Don't. Move!"

The three of you freeze when you see it. You're surrounded by a swarm of soldiers. Citadel Regulars, Loyalist Elves, and Mercenaries.

"Hoo hoo!" A man in officer's armor says as he walks his horse up towards the three of you. "I told you boys that information was good." He grins. "Queen Mab herself...and two of the Traitor Paladins as well."

>>25044840
"Oooh, I'm sooo scared." Start oozing poison from every pore.

>>25044877
No no, we need to start making that cloud-kill poison.

>>25043760
I can't decide if I like her more or less now.
I mean, she's being selfish to an extreme degree. But she knows what she wants and she sees a way to get it.
She's no hero, but there is something admirable about her.

>>25044912
She'll get along with Isen like a house on fire.

>>25044912
It's called Lawful Neutral.

>>25044882
>>25044877
those are the same thing. Maybe hold off on that, but yeah.

>>25044840
"See? I told you comedy would arrange for a surprise for us."

then point to the citadel guy

"And as for you- I go to all of this trouble finding the place, finding the prisoners, and everything else, and you already knew? Disgraceful! Why didn't you rescue julian already?'

>>25044936
Heh, the total B.S. approach. I like this plan.

>>25044936
>Why didn't you rescue julian already?'
> "Queen Mab herself...and two of the Traitor Paladins as well."

They're here for him alright, but not to rescue him.

>>25044936
This is all going to go so horribly wrong. Definitely a Dawnchaser plan.

Anyone have a better idea?

>>25044972
yes I know, but this casts doubt on him to his people.

>>25044931
>reducing a complex character to dnd alignment
GET OUT.
as the guy who posted >>25044912

I can assure you that what I meant was precisely NOT dnd alignment.
She comes across as real person, not a 3X3 grid.

>>25044923
We Need to survive long enough to see those two interact

>>25044840
"Wipe that Light-damned grin off your stupid face. Because I can pretty much guarantee you that you're in over your head. I practically JUST repulsed an army attacking Stone Hall that was led by a possessed, corrupted Lightbringer. What chance do you think YOU'VE got, cowboy?"

"If you have any brains you'll leave now while I'm being so kind as to give you a chance."

File: 1369545240892.jpg-(12 KB, 300x240, drill_sergeant.jpg)

12 KB JPG

We need to channel our inner drill sergent and give him a severe dressing down for not only blowing our cover, but allowing several higher ranking elves to escape from his trap that would otherwise have been compromised or dealt with.

Rolled 9

>>25044840
(can we go for some brian blessed action?)
STAND DOWN WHILE YOU STILL HAVE THE CHANCE! FOR YOU FACE... THE DAWNCHASERS (list the titles as I've forgotten them)! YOU THINK YOU CAN BEST US AFTER ALL WE'VE ACCOMPLISHED? DROP YOUR WEAPONS AND SURRENDER!

>>25045047
This. Give him such a tongue-lashing that he soils his armor.

Shouldn't Mage handle this? I mean apart of the show and all. I'm sure Comedy is watching this some how...

Just a thought.

"See? I told you Comedy would arrange for a surprise for us." You say quietly.

You slither forward a little and point at the man. "And as for you- I go to all of this trouble finding the place, finding the prisoners, and everything else, and you already knew? Disgraceful! Why didn't you rescue Julian already?'

There's a pause, and then the leader laughs and claps his hands. "Very good, oh very good. I was told that you might try this." He looks at the other men. "Don't listen to her. Trust me, these people are traitors all. Look at them, undead monstrosities, Fey Court soldiers, and are any of them in binds or shackles? They're even all wearing traditional hunting clothing for the Light's sake!" He grins. "Oh, I was warned about you and your serpent tongue." He nods. "Now everyone's going to know the truth, that there ARE Traitor Paladins, and the East IS rising up against Citadel." The Captain (If his rank insignia is correct) smiles and gestures with his blade. "Weapons on the ground over there. Now."

>>25045110
We can act like a paladin, because everyone already KNOWS we're a paladin. Part of Mage's cred with the Elves is that we still "answer to him", so if we handle this ourselves we can handle these idiots without forcing anyone to break character.

>>25045107
seconded. We can't have Julian hog all the paladin glaring and shouting.

>>25045110
We could do a lead-in like "You dare threaten my master (King Dagda right?) or something if he's too out of it to respond.

>>25045136
Aaand cloud kill.

>>25045176
Good job killing Tricia and Lea and Peri/Mari and Julian.

>>25045173
fuck that, it would ruin our chances at stopping these guys while only marginally helping us with the elves.

>>25045136
How do we get out of this without just cloud killing them?

>>25045136
Traitor? A traitor to what exactly?

>>25045195
we CAN throw the effect.

File: 1369545832922.jpg-(405 KB, 1529x1215, Dramatae_colorless.jpg)

405 KB JPG

Oh, almost forgot. Dramatae drawfaggotry, as promised.

>>25045136
"Paladins do not serve Citadel, they serve the light. I have betrayed nothing."

>>25045136
*Shrug* "I was just trying to give you an out. If you're gonna be fool and ignore it there isn't much I can do for you. Now are going to be the hero and die first, are a coward and send your men in first. Because that's what they sent you here for.
You see what You are right? A small troupe of men in the middle of enemy territory. You're sacrifical lambs.
I don't want to kill you, but I can, and I will."

>>25045136
"Do you actually have any charges, other than "Shes a traitor! Get her!"? Or a warrant of arrest? I'm a bit curious as to how you plan on going about this what with the violet paladins being temporarily dispersed."

>>25045251
Onto the guys who have captured the aforementioned people, yes. Surrounded in them fact.

>>25045136
"I do not answer to you, soldier, nor your paranoia."

"Let me guess, the one who has been feeding you these lies wears a Mask? Or was it a Paladin who has spent their whole damned career within Citadel's walls? Because those are the same people who just sent an army led by a fallen Lightbringer to sack Stone Hall: an army that Citadel's forces did NOTHING ABOUT, and which I and my associates had to drive off ourselves."

"We, who have saved Bronze Peak, Purple Sands, First Wood, and Stone Hall TWICE? US? TRAITORS? You're a fool, little man, and you lead all who will follow you to folly and ruin."

>>25045296

Seconded.

>>25045136

Also, pull out the seal.

"Told by whom? The last time I saw a paladin turn traitor their holy seal melted before my eyes."

>>25045425
Nice touch.

I really hope we can talk out of this.

I don't want to have to dispose of THIS many witnesses.

>>25045425
Not to mention it happened IN PUBLIC. IN FRONT OF A CROWD.

It was us, but we don't need to mention that.

"I do not answer to you, soldier, nor your paranoia.

"Let me guess, the one who has been feeding you these lies wears a Mask? Or was it a Paladin who has spent their whole damned career within Citadel's walls? Because those are the same people who just sent an army led by a fallen Lightbringer to sack Stone Hall: an army that Citadel's forces did NOTHING ABOUT, and which I and my associates had to drive off ourselves.

"We, who have saved Bronze Peak, Purple Sands, First Wood, and Stone Hall TWICE? US? TRAITORS? You're a fool, little man, and you lead all who will follow you to folly and ruin."

You hear and see the sounds of dissent and slight uncertainty in the squad that surrounds you. You count about thirty, maybe forty, people, including Captain Shiny Buttons here.

So, counting the undead members of your group, they've got at least a three to one advantage on you, and they're got crossbows trained on you and the others.

"Someone just shoot this monster bitch and the others, then we can all end this war." The Captain says. "That's an order!"

Shit. This guy isn't the listening type, a cold blooded man who became a soldier so he could legally carry a sword...and his men are trained, tired soldiers who just want to go home.

>>25045509
Actually, maybe not the best plan, now that I remember that we did that. Someone could melt OURS and then we'd eb sunk.

We need to figure out how to make Beacon shine on command. No actual effect other than glowing, but it'd be very persuasive in foiling the 'traitor paladin' sham the Dramatae are trying to pull right now.

>>25045595
wellll we could always stab the captain.

>>25045595
It had the ability when it was Father's sword, I thought it retained that ability.

Drop arms to your sides and out, with beacon and clang not guarding your torso.

"Very well, if any among you wish to shoot a paladin, go ahead. I pray you eventually find your way back to the light."

Hopefully this is a bluff and not an actual martyrdom.

>>25045586

Unlikely. It requires a ghoul spell, and there aren't many of those around that also have the ability to recognize how smart of an idea it is.

>>25045575

I'm tempted to just say 'let he without sin cast the first stone' but I can't really figure out how to make it Ssen-appropriate. But we definitely can't attack first. Our (and Mab's, and Mage's) survival depends on the Captain coming off as a complete loon.

>>25045663

Ohh, do this. Also: "I need not remind you how the Light frowns upon the spilling of innocent blood. I will not lie, I have spilt it, through action...and inaction. But I will spill not one drop here."

>>25045575
"War? This is no war, trooper. You're a sacrifice. You were sent here, deep within your enemy's territory, in order to be killed. Probably to fan the flames of war with the Elves even more, and to disrupt my infiltration work."

"I mean, this bitch isn't even Mab. She's a body double. But hey, if you want to make things worse AND get killed in the process, that's your decision to make."

"And I'm not talking to Captain Tightass McClusterfuck here. Because it's his reckless stupidity, but it's all of your lives... not to mention the last chance for peace your friends and family have."

"Take my advice. Go home, hold your wives and girlfriends close, and thank the Light I'm not a monster, but a Paladin... and an unusually patient one at that."

>>25045575
You really think you could hit me with those stick-chuckers?

You couldn't kill me if you tried, and it sounds like you're the only one who wants to. Stand down before someone gets themselves hurt.

>>25045575
>Roll 5+ higher than your current target (whether they miss or hit): you are now directly behind them and get an additional attack
Doesn't say it only works in melee range. Can we QuickQuick and whoever shoots first suddenly has Beacon pressed to the back of their neck? That would intimidate the fuck out of the army.

"Oh and if one of you could also shoot those undead, you would actually be doing me a service."

If we can somehow get this across without shouting it to the whole hunting party, that is. Unless you want to shout it?

I'm not sure.

>>25045720
Cut the part with Mab being a body double, that'd just create more issues.

"War? This is no war, trooper. You're a sacrifice. You were sent here, deep within your enemy's territory, in order to be killed. Probably to fan the flames of war with the Elves even more, and to disrupt my infiltration work. Thanks for ruining years of planning, by the by.

"But hey, if you want to make things worse AND get killed in the process, that's your decision to make.

"And I'm not talking to Captain Tightass McClusterfuck here. Because it's his reckless stupidity, but it's all of your lives... not to mention the last chance for peace your friends and family have.

"Take my advice. Go home, hold your wives and girlfriends close, and thank the Light I'm not a monster, but a Paladin... and an unusually patient one at that."

"She's right." Julian pipes up. "We had Mab, and she was ABOUT to hand over the leaders of the active cells as well. We were ABOUT to tie up the entire war, NOW thanks to THIS man, all we've got is her, and trust me boys." Julian says. "Mab's the least of our worries."

"But...the clothes, and what the Captain said..." Oh thank the Light, one of these boys is an idiot who doesn't know when to shut up. Blessed be the piss poor military training the Regulars got. Thank you Citadel, your incompetence has saved the day again.

"Of COURSE we're in garb. They call it COVERT ops for a reason and OF COURSE news was leaked." Julian says. "You think the Court doesn't have spies of their own?" He looks at you and shakes his head. "Honestly, child, I don't know to either laugh or cry. Years of planning and effort, GONE because of one gung-ho medal hound who couldn't FOLLOW ORDERS." Julian nods. "When he gets back, he's going to find two things from his commander. Orders to let us go unmolested...and then a summons for his court-martial, discharge, and summary execution!" He looks around. "I want names, from everyone! This is going to be poor for EVERYONE."

The Captain looks around wildly for support.

>an honest to goodness idiot among their ranks
This is one of the surest signs we've seen that the light is real and wants us to succeed.

>>25046025
...Does this mean retards are the Light's chosen?

>>25045983
"Easy, Julian. It's not the fault of the rank-and-file. It sounds like they're only here because the lead idiot brought them. Let's wait on any probationary action until after the Inquiry."

"But yeah, no, the Captain's gotta be punished for this in any event... and of course, anyone who remains complicit."