At the base you met a man named Lecot, as well as the rest of the current members of the order of fire, and caught up with your friends. After learning the full story of what happened to them at the manor, Sena grabbed Taret and he gave you a rose. You completely failed to hold it together and the stress of the day led to you crying in his arms.

You grabbed a change of clothes and made plans for the next day with your team, turning in for the night and working out sleeping arrangements that didn't suck for people with wings. You woke up to Taret working out in the middle of the common room and failed to go unnoticed, and decided to spar with him. You're pretty sure he threw the match at the end to let you win. You grabbed breakfast and your dad told you to stand.

Then the thread died while I was at work so we had a shitty OP post for 16.5 and continued from there. Your father named you the new head of the order and Lecot challenged you to a death match for the position. You went outside with him and got served by his sneaky, illusionist trickery, before heading off with your friends to take care of the manor.

A quick search of the manor led to you finding some stairs, footprints and a shard of ice that's probably the core of the construct you beat up with the ice claws. You pocketed the shard, told Gil and Kat to watch the area, and descended with Sena.

Character Sheet:
http://pastebin.com/CmrXBEyS

Thread twitter:
@BecomeQM

Previous adventures at:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Become%20The%20Dragon%20Quest

The rules:
Best of three rolls, critical threat on a 20, confirmed if another roll is 20-modifier or higher. Modifier is Stat being rolled+Relevant skill. You can decide which skill to apply. If no one applies one, no skill will be added on. If you don't have a logical reason to apply a skill, don't do it.
Critical fails are at least two 1s on a roll. May expand this later to increase shenanigans.
Success is on a sliding scale and is situational. Some things are easier than others. Use your head.

Check out the side story Millie's Day Off:
http://pastebin.com/9dmr6XWx

The stairs are covered in soot, and as you descend you can smell something burning, and taste something acrid on the air. There's a faint blue glow up ahead, and you can hear soft chanting from several voices, all speaking in unison. You have no idea what awaits you, but there's a big source of magical energy ahead, and it feels like it's leaking.

>Advance
>Fetch Gil and Kat
>Scout it out
>Other (write-in)

>>42634085
>Advance

>>42634085
>>Advance

>>42634085
What's the difference between scout and advance? One is sneaky, other is not?

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You head down the stairs slowly and carefully, with Sena at your back. The path turns slightly, and as you peer around the corner you can see a large chamber of blue stone. In the center is a giant crystal that shines with a soft white light, full of flashes of other colors. Surrounding it at its base are six chanting girls, and you recognize two of them. Epsi and Vein. The girls speak in unison, and you can see the colors inside the crystal grow and fade in time with their chant.

You need a plan.

>Try to interrupt the chanting
>Disrupt the spell itself
>Other (write-in)

>>42635113
>Try to interrupt the chanting

>>42635113
>>Try to interrupt the chanting

>>42635113
>>Try to interrupt the chanting

Generally, an arrow to the throat can do that pretty well.

And how do you wish to do this?

>>42635113
Can we just say hi? They're sisters of Millie, they can't be all bad. Vein was nice when we met her that one time.

>>42635378
Well what's all this then? Are you aware that Tirio has been dispossessed and undead are threatening the city even now? Lamiring was behind the necromancers. I'd have thought you'd all be at your posts preparing for attacks.

>>42635435
...They ain't stupid, and they're probably aware of scuttlebutt. They likely know it was us.

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You approach slowly, careful not to make a sound until you're close enough to speak so all of them can hear.

"Hi there, Epsi. Hey Vein. How are you guys? What are you doing in my house?"

You immediately feel subtle attempts to probe at your mind as both Vein and Epsi glance your way. Vein smirks a bit, grinning a little creepily, while Epsi lets out a surprised squeak. There's a dull thud from the crystal, and the tallest girl leaves the circle and strides over to you. She's likely the "oldest sister", looking to like a teenager, within a year of your age. She scowls a bit.

"You are interrupting an important containment ceremony authorized by the Order of Steel. State your business."

You fold your arms.

"This is my home, and those are my servants in their. Release them."

Another thud from the crystal.

"This contradicts official documents on the matter. These are rebellious constructs. They are to be contained until they can be disposed of."

Vein starts to laugh.

"Settle down, Hyper, she's right. The documents were wrong, again."

The construct in front of you glares at Vein.

"You will refer to me by my full name, young lady. I am Hyperia. And official documents are never wrong. The flaw rests with their author."

She turns back to you and looks you up and down.

"I don't recognize you. Are you a noble?"

>Write-in

>>42636106
Kotijah Imidarius, you're making a mistake. Epsilon and Vein can attest to that.

>>42636222
This.
Demand to know who ordered this to be done.

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"I am the recently returned Countess Kotijah Imidarius. This is my estate. Epsi and Vein can attest to that."

Hyperia blinks.

"Who?"

Vein bursts out laughing, and two of the other girls giggle. One of them calls out.

"Vanitas and Epsilon."

Hyperia rolls her eyes.

"Of course. The nicknames continue, never to be stopped, as though you all hate the nicknames that our father gave us. At any rate, you have my apologies. We can have the matter resolved shortly. Do you have your proof of ownership and signet ring to prove your identity?"

There's a much harder thud, and the crystal creaks.

>We should all get out of here about now
>I don't have them. My home burned down. Scan me.
>Other (write-in)

>>42636561
>I don't have them. My home burned down. Scan me.

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"They burned in the fire. Scan me."

Hyperia recoils.

"Scan? Ugh. I hate this... Alright..."

She pokes at your mind and you can almost feel her disgust as she explores your mind for the facts she needs.

"That feels so gross... Human minds are so messy..."

She turns to the others.

"Release them."

They nod as one and clap their hands. The crystal explodes, shards flying everywhere. For a moment you think you're about to be crushed when a trio of butlers appear and halt the giant hunk of crystal flying towards you. They set it down and bow low.

"Sorry for the delay, madam, we were preoccupied with our escape."

Hyperia heads for the stairs with her sisters.

"Goodbye."

Epsi gives you a timid wave, and Vein blows you a kiss before snickering. The other three simply give you a polite nod.

>You're not going anywhere
>Yeah yeah, whatever
>Other (write-in)

>>42637168
>Can I see the paperwork and who signed off on it?

>>42637168
>>Yeah yeah, whatever

Got our primary goal handled, let's GTFO...?

>>42637215
This

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"Before you go, I'd like to see the paperwork and who signed off on it."

Hyperia stops in her tracks.

"Such information is classified to the public. If you want to see a file, talk to the Order of Steel. If you have appropriate clearance then you will be allowed to view it. Is there anything else?"

>Write-in

>>42637580
The Order of Steel is where? Also any public records on Tirio Imidarius.
smugdragongirl.jpg

>>42637580
>"Nothing in particular, thank you."

Not that big a concern. We'll track him down when necessary.

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Anyone wanna proofread Sir Black and the Red Scale?

-

You shrug.

"So long as I can find the Order of Steel to make the request, I'm fine."

Hyperia nods and walks off, and the maids and butlers around you begin to tidy up. A maid approaches you.

"It will take time and effort, but we can rebuild the manor again if you so desire. Unfortunately our defenses have been compromised, so we will have to devise alternate measures."

>Rebuild
>Relocate
>Other (write-in)

>>42638122
>Relocate
Question is where?

>>42638122
Make a token effort of rebuilding enough to look good on paper, but shift most of the available a resources to the Order of Fire.

Also Have Cenerre get Millie to find that Order of steel paperwork before it goes poof.

>>42638122
>>Relocate

Let's GTFO this burg, it's a shit locale anyway.

Sir Black and the Red Scale, for anyone interested. It's the rough draft though
http://pastebin.com/5JMxmEay

>>42638273
Looks good. Kot's scales are red, what about Ruby's?

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"Rebuild the exterior, make a good show of it, but be prepared to relocate our resources elsewhere. I'm going to be moving somewhere else and establishing a base there."

The maid nods a bit.

"We are tied to the residence of our master. As you lack a residence, we are free to relocate. We will rebuild what we can without initiating that clause and follow you where you lead us to."

You nod a bit and focus on your necklace.

"Cenere, have Millie follow up on that Order of Steel paperwork."

You feel a single pulse and turn to Sena, who has just been sitting back to watch things unfold.

"Shall we check on your brother?"

She nods a little and smiles.

"Sounds good to me."

You head up with Sena to find Kat and Gil making out against a charred and broken wall. Sena laughs at them and they break apart, both blushing a bit.

Time to work out how to get home.

>Walk
>See if the carriage survived
>Ask the staff
>Other (write-in)

>>42638449
>See if the carriage survived

>>42638398
All dragons within the kingdom are red. Greens and blues sometimes attack from the wilderness beyond the kingdom

>>42638449
>>See if the carriage survived

>>42638273

Nothing wrong with it that I can see, honestly. Good pacing, grammar's fine, could envision things pretty clearly.

>>42638468
>>42638616
AH SHIT OUR HORSES

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You head for the stables and check on the carriage and horses. The carriage has seen better days, but the real issue is the horses. Ro is fine, but you can see Oro limping a bit. Sena looks like her heart is breaking when she spots the injured horse, and Gil sighs.

"Well... Unless Sena can heal that, you'll have to put him down... he can't get around like that..."

Kat tilts her head a bit.

"Isn't that a girl horse?"

Gil folds his arms.

"I dunno, I didn't look back there."

Sena runs over to Oro and looks at you pleadingly.

"You won't put her down if I mess up, right...?"

>It's mercy
>Of course not
>Other (write-in)

>>42638624
Huzzah! I'm also weirdly proud of how I posted it and it suddenly has nearly 60 hits on pastebin already. That makes me smile.

Now if only I could get an Epic on suptg... I'll have to try harder.

>>42638833
>>It's mercy
Sena a horse with a bad leg would be in pain forever. It'd be like if my Dad had Lamiring's Blight tainted sword stuck inside him permanently.

>>42638870
Give me til the end of this week

>>42638833
A 'bit if a limp' and 'inability to walk for a long while' are separate things. How bad is the limp, exactly?

>>42638833
>>Other (write-in)
If she is in pain, I will do what is necessary

>>42638970
Kotijah isn't a horse doctor. It could be a simple sprain, it could be a break. The horse is taking great effort to keep weight off of it.

>>42638970
This is me

>>42638996
Alternatively, we can do this.

>>42638833
>I'll try to find something else that could fix it, maybe some kind of horse alchemy, but if there's nothing for it, then I won't let her suffer.

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You look at the horse for a moment, then at Sena.

"Do what you can, alright? But if it doesn't work then we'll find another way. And if we can't... I won't let her suffer. Oro is a good horse, and I won't let her live out her days in pain."

Sena nods a little.

"Then.. I'll do everything I can..."

Her eyes turn red for a fraction of a second.

"Kotijah, um... could I... get a drop of your blood?"

>Give her what she asks for
>Question the purpose
>Other (write-in)

>>42638833
Just get a vet if they have those

>>42639247
>Question the purpose

>>42639247
> Question

>>42639247
>>Question the purpose

Mostly out of sheer curiosity since I don't see how that's relevant.

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You narrow your eyes, just a bit.

"And why do you need my blood?"

Sena hesitates.

"I need to keep myself in balance... If I use my healing magic then there's more harm to vent, but blood balances it out... It tastes awful, but it means I don't need to hurt someone to stay in control..."

>A drop is fine
>Too risky
>Other (write-in)

>>42639409
>A drop is fine
Kat a bottle or pipette please.

>>42639409
> A drop is fine

>>42639409
>>A drop is fine

"Just curious."

>>42639409
>A drop is fine

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You nod a bit and walk over to her, taking a knife from her belt. Her eyes turn blood red and she stares at you as you bring the blade towards your finger.

"Sena. Focus."

Her eyes revert to normal and she jumps a bit.

"R-Right, sorry, getting ahead of myself."

She gently touches Oro's leg, her hand glowing faintly.

"I think... I think it's just a bruise... I can fix that..."

Her hand glows brighter and she smiles as Oro gently tests her leg before walking away. She turns back to you, eyes red once more, and you delicately prick your fingertip. Sena sits patiently as you squeeze softly and offer her the droplet of blood, licking it up before sitting back and closing her eyes. For a moment she seems to be enjoying it, before she hacks and coughs, grumbling.

"Gross..."

>Get the horses ready and move out
>Other (write-in)

>>42639886
>Get the horses ready and move out
Kat can you bottle and preserve this stuff, I think sena's fangy half is getting addicted.

>>42639886
> Thank Sena
> Transform and roll out

>>42639886
>Get the horses ready and move out
>Thanks, Sena.

I wonder if it's plausible that she can eventually control herself to the point that she can vamp out without the addict bit- or at least hold herself together for a reasonable amount of time. Could be a useful 'panic button' if so. She can sorta do it now, it seems, but not in a great way.

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You smile a little bit.

"Thanks Sena. You saved Oro."

Sena blinks, before her face lights up and she smiles cheerfully.

"I did it!"

Gil chuckles softly.

"Yep, you did. And now Oro is wandering off somewhere."

You follow his gaze. Oro is heading right for the grass for a snack. Sena giggles a little, and Kat heads for the carriage.

"I'll get this thing in order while you guys get the horses taken care of."

You decide to give Oro a minute to eat; poor thing probably hasn't been able to get around for a decent meal in a while. You get Ro ready and then coerce Oro into getting into position. Sena strokes Oro's mane gently.

"You can eat all the grass you like when you get there, OK?"

Oro snorts in response and Sena smiles, getting into the carriage. You get into the driver's seat and get the horses moving. Next stop, secret base.

-

That's the last one for the night. I'm gonna sleep now. As always, feel free to discuss the quest so I have something to wake up to. It helps me to improve.

>>42640399
So what's the public word on Tirio?

>>42641477
Bump

>>42640399
The Order of Steel is rotten, that much is clear since they contained our maids well after the attack. We need to get Tirio dealt with, hand over our leads to The Order of Fire and get before they make a move.

>>42646541
Honestly I'm ready to just kill Tirio, but that would upset Millie. What we should do instead is appeal to the Order of Scales. We go to them with some proof of the Steel's corruption (specifically our uncle's and all the bribes he's made), they make it go public throughout the city, then we have Dad head a motion in the courts to have an official auditing of the entire guild done "To determine the merit of these accusations." Then the Order of Steel either loses and gets the reform it needs, or civil war breaks out with Steel making up bullshit so it doesn't lose all of its recruits while it tries to maintain its corruption.

>>42646677
Anon I'm fairly sure Steel is backing Lamiring not Tirio. Furthermore those null stones we found need to looked for stat.

>>42646703
Honestly I don't really care if Steel pulls a coup. That just means whoever's left will rally around our banner.

>>42646776
If they do it right, there won't BE anyone left.

>>42647205
Order of Flame will be there to catch Scales on the rebound.

>>42647254
They'd kill the dragons and their riders first, hell they'd priority than constructs. Steel has been preparing this for a long time. There will not be any of them left if the coup happens as planned.

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You arrive back at the secret base victorious and hungry. It took you almost all day riding in the carriage to get home, and you're famished. Taret is there to greet you by the entrance of the cave, probably having waited there for your return all day. As you climb down from the carriage he walks over.

"We've made some progress on getting things back up to speed around here. It's a good thing we had Millie and Cenere here, they got the crystals charged back up. We've got hot water, cold storage and light that isn't just torches."

>I'm really hungry, can I get something to eat?
>What did you do today?
>I need to find the rest of the order and talk to them
>Other (write-in)

>>42647283
>Other: "Does Cenere need me to give him another boost of fire after all that work?"

>>42647283
>>I'm really hungry, can I get something to eat?
>>What did you do today?
Then after food
>I need to find the rest of the order and talk to them

>>42647283
>I'm really hungry, can I get something to eat?
>I need to find the rest of the order and talk to them

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"Can we talk after I've had a bite to eat? I'm famished and I've gotta talk to the order afterwards anyway."

Taret nods a little.

"Certainly. Everyone seems so busy today. I kept getting called in to do heavy lifting, but magic isn't my strong point so mostly I chatted with your father about tips for riding dragons. Speaking of food though, your mother gave me some tips, and I've got a surprise for you."

Surprises. Wonderful. Wait, he didn't...

"Since it's my turn to cook dinner, I asked what your favorite was."

He did.

"So we've got steak tonight, with roasted potatoes, stuffing and gravy, and I even made puddings for dessert."

He offers his hand with a small smile, blushing a bit.

"Shall we?"

>We shall.
>Nice try, but you can't just make my favorite food and expect me to be all happy about it.
>Pudding for dessert? And if I wanted something else?
>Other (write-in)

>>42647833
>We shall.
>...I always heard the way to a MAN'S heart was through his stomach. Didn't think it'd work on me...

>>42647864
This. We are not equipped to repell a moé knight.

>>42647833
>"...what...what kind of pudding?" Try (and fail) to hide how excited you are at the prospect of such delicious food.

>>42647833
>>42647913
Seconding, please don't flirt even more with the knight right now.

>>42647833
>>We shall
Hide excitement as best as we can.

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"What kind of pudding?"

You fold your arms and do your best to look imposing rather than excited, and Taret swallows.

"Chocolate...?"

You nod and take his hand.

"Lead on then. What are we waiting here for?"

Taret smiles and chuckles.

"Why indeed? Onwards!"

He leads you into the cave. You hear giggling behind you, and when you glance behind at the others you can see Gil and Sena giving a thumbs up, while Kat is making a fairly obscene gesture and grinning. You turn away and try to fight down your blush.

The main hall is set quite a bit differently than last time. The torches are gone, replaced by glowing crystal clusters, and the forks and plates have been spruced up. Cenere has been busy it seems. You spy him off to one side with Millie, having some sort of discussion. Taret releases your hand as you near the table, pulling out a chair for you.

"I'll go and get the food and the others."

You settle into your seat and he runs off, and your friends settle in around the table. Kat leans towards you a bit.

"I can get you maybe half an hour alone with him easily if you want. An hour if I put in the effort."

>Noted. I'll let you know.
>That's not happening any time soon.
>Stop making a big deal out of this
>Other (write-in)

>>42648443
>"We haven't even murdered a noble together. How can I know if I really like him yet?"

>>42648443
>>Other (write-in)
>Appreciated, but nah, I'll let it happen naturally. When I want him alone... I'll get him alone.

>>42648443
>That's not happening any time soon.
"Maybe after i'm done with the dragon stuff."

>>42648443
>>42648482
This

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You shrug a little and try to remain nonchalant.

" I think you're more eager about this than either of us. When it happens, it happens. When I want him alone, it'll happen. I'm in no rush, and I don't think he is either."

Gil coughs a bit, choking on his drink briefly before laughing at you.

"Right. No rush. Not like he's a guy or anything."

Kat leans on him a little bit.

"Women have needs too, dear."

You see her arm move slightly and Gil turns bright red, Kat smirking impishly at him. You sigh a bit and lean back in your chair. One by one the members of the order file in, until at last Taret walks in beside your mother, both carrying trays with food and drink. Taret is carrying the bulk of it and straining a bit, while your mother is carrying two trays and unloading them from Taret and onto the table. When she tries to take the last one he shakes his head and smiles, walking over to you and laying out a few plates in front of you with your meal, as well as another rose. He walks off with the empty trays, and everyone just sort of looks at you. You can't quite meet your father's gaze, and you can tell he's smirking at you.

Taret comes back and you dig in, trying to hide how much you're enjoying the meal, but you're too ravenous to hold yourself back, and you tear into it, wolfing down your food and washing it down with mead. Taret looks pleased with himself.

>Tell everyone about Tirio
>Tell everyone about the Order of Steel
>Tell everyone about your quest
>Other (write-in)

>>42649193
Talk about those damn nammit OoS cronies

>>42649193
Can we tell teret to slow down a little. I really like the guy but its a little much. He's sweet, handsome, honest, and good natured. Hes fantastic but damn stop trying so hard to win us over at this point it'll happen.

>>42649193
>Tell everyone about your quest

We fulfill the quest, we outclass anything Tirio can throw at us.

Don't waste our time with our petty chucklefuck of an uncle. Let him lick his wounds, and we'll come roaring back fifty feet long and belching flame.

>>42649288

Love bug bit him hard. He's not making a fool of himself, endangering anyone, or generally acting like an idiot - he's just trying to make us happy. Let's not shatter his confidence by telling him he looks desperate.

>>42649311
Guess you're right. And kojitah is enjoying the proper attention and not lustful stares

>>42649193
>>Tell everyone about the Order of Steel

>>42649337

Exactly. Teret seems in control of himself, but still devoted. That's good for someone like us - in a seat of power, need to keep up appearances, ambitious as all hell. Seems like a good force to balance us.

>>42649193
>Tell everyone about Tirio
>Tell everyone about the Order of Steel

>>42649193
>Tell everyone about Tirio
>Tell everyone about the Order of Steel
>Tell everyone about your quest
A quick infodump?

>>42649193
>>Tell everyone about Tirio
>>Tell everyone about the Order of Steel
>>Tell everyone about your quest

Query- why are we telling them about our quest? Are we actually going to mention Alligeset (I cannot remember how to spell that name, sorry)?

>>42649641

We've already told all of our close friends about our quest to become a dragon. I don't think it will come as a surprise to anyone.

We don't even really have to mention Alligeset. Kat, Gil and Sena already know we have an interest in the White Blade, as we've brought it up before.

Plus we have a history of being honest with the people closest to us.

>>42649193
>Tell them about the Order of Steel

>>42649723
I thought the quest meant about picking up the rose and the sword, not necessarily why...

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As conversation wanes around the table you rise to your feet.

"I've got a few things to get off my chest, and some things you need to hear about."

All eyes fall on you, and you tell the group about Tirio, the money he tried to steal and the lengths he went to to secure it. You tell them about Lamiring and the necromancers, and how the borders aren't safe anymore. You tell them your personal mission, leaving out a few details but telling them the White Blade and Red Rose play a role. And lastly you tell them about the Order of Steel, the covet stories and what they did to your staff. Everyone seems to be slowly taking in the details. Finally your father speaks.

"We can't afford to spread ourselves thinly right now. If you leave on your little quest, we can't give up any resources to support you. What happens if you fail? Or worse? I can deal with you chasing your own goals right now, but if you leave, it's under your own power."

There are a few nods from around the table, and your mother sighs.

"I have to agree..."

>That's fine by me
>If I succeed then you'll be wishing I could come back faster
>If I succeed I'm not coming back
>Other (write-in)

>>42650026
>That's fine by me

>>42650026
>If I succeed I'm not coming back

We're not the Batman of this doomed capital - we've been misled and manipulated at every turn and it's painfully clear that the city doesn't want us in it.

But we're taking Teret.

>>42650026
>>That's fine by me
Millie can fetch me when I do succeed though.

>>42650026
>That's fine by me

>>42650026
>If I succeed I'm not coming back to help this country

>>42650026
>>That's fine by me

>>42650026
>If I succeed I'm not coming back
I owe nothing to this corrupted city.

>>42650026
>"I have no interest in this city. If I succeed, I will have the power to burn it as I see fit. Whether or not I actually will is still up for debate."

>>42650026
>If I succeed I'm not coming back

Y'know this basically makes the last three threads entirely meaningless and that stupid fight was for absolutely nothing.

>>42650276
Can everyone remember that we wont be the only dragon around?

Or that dragon != automatic god?

>>42650026
>That's fine by me

>>42650313
Maybe it's because of what's happened that we make this choice, this place has nothing good for us. All it's been doing is trying to test us, manipulate us or defeat us. The only reason we haven't burnt the place down is because:
1. We aren't strong enough.
2. Our friends are still here.
Or at least that's my opinion...

>>42650357
We might not be an auto dragon, but keep in mind all of these dragons are under the curse of papa dragon. Whatever limit they have, we won't. Ergo, we'll be a superior breed of dragon.

>>42650026
>If I succeed I'm not coming back
Or at least i'm not going to help this city.

>>42650313

I wanted to make some snarky remark where I ask you what redeeming qualities this city has.

Then I realized it has at least one, and we pulled her from it. Millie.

I want to be done with this stupid town just as much as anyone, but acting like the it's entirely devoid of value just because the collective aristocracy is a corrupt piece of shit would be foolish of us. There's probably a lot of good, kindhearted people in the capital.

Why don't we work on pulling the innocents away from the sway of the capital before we do away with it entirely? Lecot obviously has illusion magic, maybe he can throw some glamours over the Order and we can cruise around incognito, pulling the talented and innocent away from this vile cesspool.

Just an idea.

>>42650446
Sounds plausible. We don't really know what more exists out there, but we could save some uncorrupt people who we can then either leave to rebuild what once was, or follow us for something i guess.

>>42650391
All the dragons that were descended from Alligeset. That's not necessarily all dragons in the setting.

>>42650089
>>42650233
>>42650276
>>42650291
>>42650399
Being a hyper bitch and damning a lot of innocents for their dickass rulers

>>42650617
The whole noble system is corrupt, including the strongest soldiers in the city, this place is fucked so if we return we'd have to kill the entire top anyways. Maybe we can evacuate the citizens or something, but it's not worth saving.

>>42650659
What about the order of scales? They seem fine, and we still have necromancy to eliminate at some point. The order of steel also needs to be dealt with, they are scum

>>42650617
I'm not really against helping our allies in the final battle and all that, but involving ourselves in this city has led to nothing but bad things. It's not like we'll abandon them completely, but staying here is not worth it.

>>42650699
We could help the order of scales now and again, but we really don't have anything else keeping us there.

>>42650617
We can still keep in touch with the Scales and help them sometime, it's not like we'll let them handle everything by themself

>>42650659
There are decent nobles amongst the elite we just need to be careful


>>42650703
>never coming back
That implies fuck them all they're not getting any more help from me

>>42650760
See above, also if a coup happens the scales are going to be priority targets.

>>42650801
>There are decent nobles amongst the elite we just need to be careful
Well i haven't seen any

>>42650801
I wouldn't say that it means we'll break all contact with them, though. I mean it's not like we'd refuse if they ask for help later on. Also they don't know that the scales still exists if i remember correctly. They think they killed them all or something.

>>42650026
>>That's fine by me

>>42650865
That's the order of fire anon.

>>42650823
Do remember if the Capitol falls the kingdom will soon follow since it loses the vast majority of it's magical and military might and the necromsncers get a city full of dead to play with.

>>42651001
The capital won't fall, it'd already corrupt, but it won't fall.

>>42650026
> that's fine by me
> Other
"My only interest in the capitol is you folks. Were you not here, I would have left already."

>>42651128
I can get behind that.

>>42651056
Except in a previous post BTQM said it very well could, especially if the order or Iron are backing the duke.

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"Fine."

You draw a slow breath.

"I don't care for this city. It isn't my home. The people that I've met are manipulative and cruel, with very few exceptions. The leaders of the city need to go. But I won't be here to do it. I have my own goals, my own dream to fulfill. When it's done, maybe I'll come back. But honestly, the only people from that city that I care about are already here."

You sit back down and your father reclines.

"Tomorrow morning you and your friends can leave. We'll give you some supplies and you can make your arrangements to go. Wrap up your unfinished business and depart. Don't come back until you succeed or have given up completely. You'll see this through one way or the other, or I'll never be able to forgive you for running out on us in our time of need."

You give him a nod and he rises, heading for the door.

"I hope you succeed, Kotijah. But I really don't like this..."

The other members of the order file out, and Taret slowly rises to his feet.

"...my friends are in this city, Kotijah... If you ask me to go with you then I will, but... I have my duty. I have to help the people I care about. I'm sorry."

>Go then, do your duty
>I need you by my side for the road ahead
>Other (write-in)

>>42651270
Eluded to perhaps

>>42651428
>Being a dutiful sod is part of your charm. I won't begrudge you it.

>>42651428
>Go then, do your duty
>This is your home, i won't ask you to depart from it.

>>42651446
Alluded, rather. Speech to text sucks.

>>42651428
I like this;>>42651465

>>42651428
>>Go then, do your duty

>>42651465
This. Give the poor man a kiss on the forehead, at least.

>>42651428
>Go then, do your duty

>>42651642
No physical things yet.

>>42651428
>Go then, do your duty

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"I wouldn't expect any less from you. Go do your duty. Be who you are."

You smile slightly.

"I won't like you anymore otherwise."

Taret smiles in return and nods, walking off to join the others. Sena pouts.

"There goes our planning."

Kat pulls out a sheet of paper and starts tearing it up.

"Yep..."

Gil exchanges confused looks with you. They really put a lot of effort into this.

"Anyway... Let's hit the hay. Tomorrow we head East and seek the White Blade."

Gil nods.

"I'm gonna check a few things first. Kat's been working on some special arrows for me so I'm going to test them out."

Kat grins.

"Field testing is fun."

Sena's face lights up.

"Can I come too?"

Gil nods.

"Sure thing."

He turns to you.

"I guess you're sleeping alone for now. Unless you want to come with us?"

>Sure
>I'll rest
>Other (write-in)

>>42651912
>>I'll rest

>>42651912
>I'll rest

>>42651912
>>I'll rest

>>42651912
Wait, what is the question? If we want to come along and test arrows or if we want to sleep alone?

>>42652007
Basically, yeah

>>42651912
>I'll rest
>>42652100
Well, we could get a visit from our ancestor by this so i'll go with that.

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You shake your head.

"I'm just gonna sleep for a while."

Gil nods.

"Suit yourself."

He turns and walks off, the girls trailing behind him. You look at the table for a moment and have the last bite of your chocolate pudding before heading off to the dorm. You take a moment to consider the situation. Cenere is out and about but if he's like Millie he'll want to sleep somewhere. Seven people, four beds. You climb up to the top bunk while trying to work out how to pair people off. You decide it'll probably work out in the end anyway and make yourself comfortable, closing your eyes.

-

Smarts roll

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>42652179

Rolled 19 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>42652179
perception?

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>42652179
It's happening...

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1.01 MB JPG

You're awakened by the sound of talking. You hear Taret say something as you wake, and then Gil's voice.

"She's not going to bite your head off, but I agree, it's a bad plan.

Kat tuts.

"It saves space and she won't mind if it's him. I say he should just go up there and get cozy. She's a heavy sleeper anyway, I think."

Sena and Millie giggle softly and someone shooshes them. Taret mumbles something you can't hear, and Kat snorts.

"Well someone has to sleep with her. I've got Gil, and Sena and Millie can split a bed. So you're either with her or Cenere."

>I can hear you just fine you know
>Let it happen, just keep pretending to sleep
>Other (write-in)

>>42652600
>I can hear you just fine you know

>>42652600
>I can hear you just fine you know

>>42652600
>Let it happen, just keep pretending to sleep

> Let it happen
Let's see how chivalrous he REALLY is

>>42652600
>>I can hear you just fine you know
"This is starting to get annoying"

>>42652600
>I can hear you just fine you know
"I can sleep on the floor if i have to"

>>42652670
Please don't

>>42652670
Yes, this, please.

Really not fans of romance around these parts huh?

>>42652723
Nope, we've got more important things to think about than some last ditch effort to pair us together before departing.

>>42652723
I am, for one, a fan. I fear most folks following this quest want a draconic battleaxe.

>>42652723
Just not yet, friend. We're about to head off on a quest to become a dragon. This is just OP giving a lot of options to do so.

Romance eventually, though.

>>42652768
Basically this, besides, we've only had one romance option so far, let's not be too hasty to jump the gun...

>>42652723
Depends on if there's a follow-up vote.

>>42652678
Seconding.

>>42652600
>"Taret, get your ass up here so the others will stop bitching and I can go back to sleep."

>>42652821
THIS.

>>42652821
Not this.

>>42652876
I don't think you can anti-vote for things.

>>42652723
It just feels so forced that I can't get on board with it.

>>42652821
I like this. I'm not repulsed by romance.

All that said, QM, after we leave, you might just want to take note, cut your losses, and neglect to mention romance for the rest of the quest. Save it for an epilogue of some sort.
I'm a fan, but it seems like the majority isn't.

>>42652678
This

>>42652600
>>42652821
Seconding.

If only because I hope it'll route lock us and prevent the problems with multiple LIs in quests occurring.

>>42652821
This, he will be our pillow and he will like it. Or else.

>>42652600
>>42652821
Fuck yes.

>>42652947
Dude, romance is fine, just not right now. We got shit to do. We're just gonna leave him for an unspecified amount of time after this anyway, what's the point of getting into it now? Maybe when we come back. We haven't even said if we'll take his goddamn rose yet.

>>42652947
>Majority consistently voted for romance beforehand
>The winning option isn't even necessarily anti-romance
I think you have an ulterior motive.

>>42652678
This.
I just don't like that we're basically being pushed on him from everyone including having multiple times where being with him/accepting his things are the only interesting things happening.

>>42652989
No, but I do admit that I might just be reading very incorrectly into the situation. I'll shut up.

>>42652981
So much this, we'll be gone and might not even come back, don't bind him to us like that.

You'd all be for it if it was with a girl.

>>42653033
I would not, actually. It's the same situation.

>>42653033
It isn't a girl and since our QM hasn't brought a female romance option in (since Sena's hasn't shown any interest in us at all that way) I doubt he will in the future.
And most of us only want to go do our quest without any thing tying us down bullshit.

>>42653073
I don't get how this would be doing anything in regards to 'tying us down.' It doesn't really change anything, Taret is already a reason to come back, and we've already established we're leaving on our quest.

>>42653117
And we made clear we would tell him our answer to his rose later, but ever since then he's been more and more pushy/pushed by our friends and that's not something i enjoy.

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You lean out over the edge of the bed and clear your throat.

"I can hear you just fine you know. And I'd rather people asked rather than trying to force things on me. It's getting annoying."

Taret turns bright red.

"That's what I've been saying! But they keep trying to push me to 'move things along' and it's frustrating."

Kat gasps.

"The nerve! OK, yeah, maybe we have been a bit pushy about this. But you need to lighten up. You keep trying to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. I mean, you ask for help, sure, but you always get so stressed. It would be good for you, for both of you."

You groan and roll over again.

"Whatever. Taret, share with Cenere tonight or take the floor. I'm tired of this mess. You can blame Kat and the others for it. If they had let you just ask then I'd be fine with it, but right now I'm just tired and I don't like other people orchestrating my life."

You can hear whispers from below, and when you glance over Taret is curled up on the floor beside your bunk bed.

"Night..."

You sigh softly.

"Good night, Taret. Sweet dreams."

You close your eyes and go back to sleep. You feel yourself tumble through darkness for a moment before Allegiset appears before you.

"Let's talk, dear daughter, before you get yourself in trouble."

>With what?
>I thought you couldn't see what I do all day
>Other (write-in)

>>42653187
>I thought you couldn't see what I do all day

>>42653187
>I'm listening

>>42653187
>I thought you couldn't see what I do all day

>>42653187
>>With what?

>>42653187
>>42653187
>>With what?

I swear to god
if our fucking ancestor dragon Is about to spew relationship advice... just, goddamn

>>42653277
I sure hope not.
That would probably be the point where i drop the quest...

>>42653277
I think it's less going to be that, more QM speaking IC about recent events.

>>42653277
He's likely going to tell us love is weakness. That sex is for procreation and our own personal pleasure and naught else.

>>42653315
Seems like most would be just fine and dandy with that.

>>42653358
I'm more the "save that until we've at least gotten to know each other" Instead of trying to become lovers in 2 days.

>>42653358
Speaking as one of the people that voted against making Taret into a pillow, stop putting words in my fucking mouth.

>>42653397
This. We've met the guy once before, he's told us we're pretty, and made us dinner. That's it.

When did he even start to like us so much, in the pastebin? He sure as hell didn't seem really interested when we first met him.

>>42653447
I think it was something about liking how we looked in a dress, so it basically was that he fell for our looks when we later met.

>>42653468
Pretty sure Sena said something when we first arrived at the Order's hideout that implied he had a crush before that.

>>42653551
I can't remember it, but i also don't want to put up the effort of looking for it so i'll half believe you.

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"With what? I thought you couldn't see what I do during the day?"

Allegiset glares at you.

"When you sleep I can examine your mind. And you've managed to disgust me."

He blows smoke at you.

"What are we, daughter?"

You pause.

"Drago-"

"Dragons!"

He roars right in your face.

"Your human blood disgusts me, but you want to be rid of it, so I accept you. I will not permit a threat to the purity of our line. I will not accept you taking a human lover. If ever you let your blood mingle, I will abandon you. Play your games, but know you will outlive him. Enjoy yourself, but remember who you owe your power to."

>Write-in

>>42653612
> I owe my power to myself, you overgrown lizard.
Or a speech to that effect.

>>42653612
>You then know that I've basically only known him for two days and that i'll be leaving and might not come back in a long time, right? And who knows who i'll meet on this journey. There's no need for you to worry about something like that yet.

>>42653612
>Allegiset. Has anyone ever told you who you could or could not be with? Because first it was Tirio and now its you whose telling me who I can and cannot be romantic with. Which frankly pisses me off. Do you have a dragon suitor too?

>>42653612
>"Whatever, you're just an abstract representation of my blood memories anyway."

You guys do know that he's speaking the truth when he says that we owe him our powers, right? The wings, improved stats, firesinging, eyes. All the stuff that have helped us so far has been because of him and without them we'd already been dead. So saying We owe it only to our self is just stupid.
Also please don't insult the dragon that's giving us powers.
And is able to curse us.

>>42653681
This

>>42653612
>Fine.
Accept it for now, wait until we get the blade and the rose so he can uncurse his bloodline and release it's full power, then tell him to go fuck himself.

Pretty good mechanism to prevent romance from getting too serious too soon.

>>42653742
We had the ambition to go out there and start it off ourselves, anon. We got to where we are because fuck-off dragon shit decided to give us our powers because WE'RE the last hopeful of his line. He should be pining to us. Not this shit. He can pack up and leave if he wants.

>>42653612
>>42653681
>>42653711
Combination of these two.

>>42653772
If he tells us his true name, we're going to get all of the other curses that we didn't previously choose at once.

>>42653681
I vote for this

>>42653612
>I know that i owe most of my powers to you, but there's no need to worry about something so far off. I'm leaving somewhere and he's staying behind. I might meet a nice dragon along the way or i might not, but please don't try to force me who i'm supposed to have offspring with.

>>42653772
We've asked for his powers many times and he always gave it to us when we needed it. All he asks is for someone to get a pure bloodline and frankly that's not too much to ask for from someone who might live forever and owe their life to you.

>>42653797
If he's expecting us to be grateful after this curse is broken and we're at full power, I look forward to disappointing him. He's a tool, nothing more.

>>42653788
Sounds fine to me. We can work past that.

>>42653797
We didn't ask, he gave it to us of his own volition.

And we aren't a pure bloodline in the first place, we barely have any real dragon blood in us in the first place. He said so.

Besides, why would we fuck a dragon?

>>42653816
Then we'll cross that line when we get to it, but please at least try to deceive him instead of trying to shout at the dragon giving us stuff in our head to fuck off, that's all i'm asking.

>>42653853
Call it just a theory, but when we unlock all our dragon stuff and become a dragon, i think that's basically us restoring/creating a new bloodline for full dragons instead of the half that come from offspring.

>>42653853
>We can work past that.
The madness can't be worked past, as the QM said before, other than by breaking the curse, and Allegiset is the only one that knows how to do that.

>>42653875
That come from offspring between humans and dragons*

It seems the general consensus is to accept his terms, for now, so that's what I'm going with.

>>42653892
I'm gonna be honest, i like when the character is a bit mad, but i probably won't vote for it if it is the "I suddenly hate all humans" mad rather than a bit deranged.

>>42653940
Him forcing a suitor on us before he purifies our bloodline when?

>>42653945
if we hits us with all of it at once we won't have a choice.

>>42653940
Sounds about right.

>>42653973
Oh, i meant when/if we're able to vote for another power up like the speed and wing thing.

>>42653940
None of the write-ins look like outright acceptance to me. More telling him he has nothing to worry about yet with about half asking him to stop being as bad as our friends or Tirio about this shit.

>>42653945
We have no way of knowing exactly what kind of madness it is, but the QM seemed to imply that it's a continual descent.

>>42653940
Most of the write ins were either "you're really worried about this" or "Can you just fucking stop pushing a relationship"

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"You won't have to worry about that from me. I want to be a true dragon, Allegiset. I won't let anything stand in my way. If that means telling Taret I'm not interested then so be it. I just wish you weren't as pushy as Tirio was. I don't like being beholden to anyone."

Allegiset chuckles softly.

"The difference is that Tirio had no real power over you, and had selfish interests. I want what is best for both of us, and I have the power to keep you from making bad choices."

You nod slightly.

"Is that all?"

He nods a bit.

"For now, yes."

You close your eyes and relax.

"Good."

You feel yourself awakening slowly, and you open your eyes to find everyone else still asleep.

>Get ready for the day ahead, let them sleep
>Wake them all up, time to move out
>Other (write-in)

>>42654196
>Wake them all up, time to move out

>>42654196
>Get ready for the day ahead, let them sleep
Don't know if there's anything else to do right now, but we shouldn't wake them up.

>>42654196
Wake 'em all up

>>42654196
>Get ready for the day ahead, let them sleep
Nobody voted for the first half of that dialogue.

>>42654276
It was more a way to appease the dragon i would say. With so many different write-ins it's hard to sum it all up.

>>42654290
Especially when it's hard to track them all on my phone screen. As always, I apologise for any inconsistencies.

And our tiebreaker vote is?

>>42654474
roll it

>>42654290
There were only three different write-ins, one of which was basically just the other two combined, and the latter half is perfectly representative of the point it should be. It makes it seem deliberate.

>>42654474
i can change to wake them up

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>42654474
1 for wake
2 for sleep

>>42654510
Guess he may have looked at the discussion afterwards then to see?

>Watch as Target somehow becomes a were-dragon.
>Suddenly Allegiset is super fine with the same person he got mad about

>>42654542
>were-dragon
Is that what's supposed to happen when you get bitten by a dragon and survive?

>>42654595
It involves that Red scale he found and an experiment of Kat's.

>>42654603
Alchemy is pretty amazing, huh?

As long as they only fuck when they're dragons, then Allegiset would probably be ok with it.

>>42654536
But discussion isn't votes?

>>42654652
Have you seen the shit the MC can pull in Snakecatcher quest? Of course Alchemy is amazing.

>>42654663
I also thought that the first writein may be interpreted as saying that since we've only been with him so short time, he's not important enough to take priority over becoming a dragon? Anyways, it doesn't really matter what we said to him as long as it pleased him. What matters is what we do later.

>>42654705
Well, he mostly lucked out by having access to an infinite number of magical snake stuff and apparently was a really good experimenter with how fast he managed to do all he did.
The stuff we have given Kat access to has probably boosted her potion-making too...

>>42654740
To be Fair him getting a Journeyman book set and the Mastery book ASAP helped a lot. It's a lot easier to experiment when you can make ID potions.

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You climb out of bed and start gently shaking everyone awake one by one. After making sure they won't fall asleep again, you head off for a quick wash and change of clothes. You still need to figure out what to do with your staff, but you could probably leave Cenere behind and coordinate them through the necklace. As you change clothes the shard of ice falls from your pocket and cracks slightly. Oh. You forgot about her.

>Leave her for Cenere to deal with
>Ask someone about it
>Crush it and forget it
>Other (write-in)

>>42654806
> Ask Cenere about it

>>42654806
>> Ask Cenere about it

>>42654806
>Ask someone about it

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You slip your fresh change of clothes on and take the shard to Cenere, offering it to him. He looks it over for a moment without taking it from you.

"A core. And a potent one at that. Though it's damaged and fading fast. Are you offering me a snack or did you want her woken up and repaired?I could add her to the staff if you like."

>Snack?
>Just deal with this
>Make her ours
>I want her interrogated

>>42655063
>Snack?
Maybe but first
>I want her interrogated
then we'll see.

>>42655063
>I want her interrogated. Afterwords...well, do what you want. Consider her yours, once you get some useful information.

>>42655063
>>42655080
Second.

>>42655063
>Make her ours

>>42655063
>>42655080
Seconding.

File: blue-dragon-desktop-backg(...).jpg (1.18 MB, 2000x1500)

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You raise an eyebrow.

"Snack?"

He nods and smiles softly.

"Yes. I can consume her and add her to my collection of cores. She'll become part of me, and once fully assimilated I'll have all of her power. She's part water element, so I'll only be able to eat half of her and the rest will go to waste. While I understand if you would rather I didn't, all elementals have a base craving for more power to fulfill our duties. It is our hunger."

You nod slightly.

"I'll consider it. But first I want her interrogated."

Cenere smiles cheerfully.

"I will enjoy this quite a bit, madam. A complicated task with many variables that may be quite time consuming... Thank you."

He takes the shard from you and his hand glows, the crack healing, before turning to walk away.

>Supplies, carriage, road trip
>Talk to someone before you head out
>Other (write-in)

>>42655504
>Talk to someone before you head out

Varet. We don't have to husbando him, but we ought to at least give the man a hug and wish him well.

>>42655504
>Talk to someone before you head out
say goodbye to mom and dad

>>42655504
>>Supplies, carriage, road trip
Lets get the fuck out already

>>42655504
>>Supplies, carriage, road trip

>>42655504
>Talk to someone before you head out

>>42655504
>Supplies, carriage, road trip
It's time!

>>42655562
This, at least

>>42655504
>Other, give him another dose of Elemental Fire, so he can better complete his duties in our absence.

>>42655736
I may be wrong, but i think that was more a temporary boost than anything.

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You decide to say your goodbyes and head for the main hall, hoping to find your parents. You spot your mother and father eating breakfast and head over to them. Your father is poking at his meal, while your mother has barely touched hers. Your father sighs when he spots you.

"Running away again then... Can't say I blame you. We weren't exactly the best parents, were we."

You rest a hand on his shoulder.

"Nah, you weren't. But no parents are perfect."

He smiles and gently squeezes your hand, and your mother hugs you tightly.

"Be safe... And whatever you do, do it for the right reasons."

You hugs her back and nod.

"I will, mother. I'll see you again, safe and sound. I promise."

She smiles softly.

"Good luck..."

You turn and head for the exit. You don't know where Taret is, and you don't want to waste too much time looking for him, so you make your way to the carriage. The other members of the order are there, chatting with your friends and handing them small items, books and pieces of paper. Taret is by the carriage, loading things onto the back and roof, mostly food from the look of things.

>Let's get this show on the road
>Talk to Taret one last time
>See what's up with the group and the stuff they're getting
>Other (write-in)

>>42656857
>Talk to Taret one last time

Don't crush the poor guy's spirit. Give him a hug.

>>42656909
Seconding

>>42656909

Seconding, but promise we'll see him again soon.

>>42656857
>>Let's get this show on the road

I wanna get out of here already

>>42656857
>>Talk to Taret one last time
"Don't wait up for me. I don't know when or if I will be back. I hope life treats you well.

>>42656857
>>42656909
Supporting. All aboard the bandwagon.

>>42657168
Oh, I like this. A hug and this would be neat.

>>42657168
I'd rather that write-in not be used.

>>42657220
Faggot, anti-votes are not a thing.

>>42657253
Announcing disagreement with write-ins is, though, since sometimes they're used if there's support (or just a lack of opposition) even if they don't have the technical majority.

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You walk over to Taret as he hoists the last pack onto the carriage, and you give him a smile. He smiles back, though he looks a little dejected.

"I was kind of hoping for a response by now, but... I guess asking for advice from everyone was a bad idea. I really blew it, didn't I... I'm sorry if I offended you or anything like that. I've never tried to court someone before."

You lean against the carriage and shrug.

"You didn't have to try so hard. I appreciated the gestures, just... Next time, listen to what's in here."

You point to his chest when you say that, and he nods. He reaches under his collar and pulls out a silver chain with a red scale on it.

"Take this with you. It'll bring you luck. If I can't go with you myself, I can at least give you that."

You take the necklace from him and pause for a moment, before taking out one of your earrings and giving it to him.

"Keep that on you. I'm gonna have to find my way back to you, and that'll help."

Taret pockets it with a small smile.

"So I'll see you again then?"

You nod.

"You'll see me again."

You pull him into an embrace, and he holds you close for a few moments before taking a step back, blushing.

"I'll... I'll be waiting."

You head for the driver's seat of the carriage.

"And I'll have an answer for you when I see you next."

You climb up and get your friends seated, waving to the crowd as you pull away, turning towards the east and heading off onto the open road. You get all of fifty feet away before Gil opens the slot behind you and says "Do you have a clue where we're going?"

Uh.

>Sure I do!
>Generally, yes
>Not really but it shouldn't be too hard
>Other (write-in)

>>42657291
>Generally, yes
I have a general direction yes. Once we get close we'll need to look around more.

>>42657291
>Generally, yes

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"I know we have to head to the east. It's a forgotten town that won't be on any maps, so the only way to find it is to search."

Gil sighs and shrugs.

"Good enough."

He closes the flap, leaving you to your thoughts. Tirio will probably go free, but now that people know your father is alive and well, and now that he has his estate and servants back, the problem might get resolved while you're away. The real issues are the necromancers and Lamiring, who you're sure is still alive. And the city itself is rotten to the core among the elite. The kingdom is falling apart. You can't help wondering about Fiona's prophecy about the coming of night. Maybe the kingdom is doomed anyway, and this is just the start. Or maybe the religion is bullshit, and it can be preserved. You're not sure, but you think you'll find the answers along the way.

-

Since we're back to travelling long distances, we'll switch back to travel rolls unless there are any objections.

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>42657638

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>42657638

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>42657638

For the uninitiated in this system, the travel rolls are Encounter, Event and Luck. Encounter is your random encounter roll, events are random happenings along the way, and luck skews the other two rolls. Bad luck can sour good events, and good luck can give you an edge in a tricky encounter.

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Your first week of travel is pretty boring for the most part, taking turns driving with Gil, stopping from time to time to eat, clean and keep your skills polished. On the third day you encounter a washed out bridge, and two men working to repair it. One of them walks over to the carriage as you draw near.

"There's no way through here until we finish, miss. Your best bet is to turn north a ways and find the ferry where the river widens. We'll be a few days yet."

>We could help
>Thank you for the advice
>Other (write-in)

>>42657905
>Thank you for the advice

>>42657905
>Thank you for the advice

>>42657905
>Thank you for the advice

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You turn towards the north and head on your way. It's a few hours, but you come to a small town. The river is much wider here, and you can see behind you where the river you've been following meets with another. The town looks fairly prosperous for its size, a small population of well-off people. You come to a halt at the edge of town when you spot a knight sitting around and keeping watch.

>Approach the knight
>Scout the area
>Other (write-in)

>>42658260
>Approach the knight
sup? Try to ascertain his order before we approach.

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You walk over to the knight and put on a pleasant smile. He doesn't look up at you when you approach, staring at the ground, his helmet slightly askew.

"Hello?"

The knight suddenly jolts, rising to his feet and saluting.

"I wasn't napping, sir!"

He holds that pose for a few seconds before lowering his hand.

"Sorry, uh... Bad habit from the academy. Welcome to Ditio, traveller. We are but humble folk here, living in peace, so we ask that all thoughts of violence be forgotten here. Would you prefer them bottled, bagged or discarded?"

>Bottled
>Wait what
>We were just leaving, sorry
>Other (write-in)

>>42658498
>>Wait what

>>42658498
> Bottled
> Wait, what?

>>42658498
>Wait what

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"Run that by me one more time?"

The knight nods and repeats himself verbatim, and you nod slowly.

"How exactly does one... bottle violent thoughts?"

The knight laughs heartily.

"Why, with a mind bottle! We have one of the finest enchanters in the kingdom here, producing mind bottles capable of containing even the most violent of urges. You'll find you're much happier without them. Takes the edge off. Please, do come with me, we can get them taken care of and then you're free to explore the town as you wish. But if you wish to enter our little town, I simply must ask you to obey my request."

You pause.

"And if we want to use the ferry?"

He points to the docks.

"The one to cross the river? You may open the bottles on the other side."

>What could possibly go wrong
>Where is this enchanter?
>Other (write-in)

>>42658632
>Where is this enchanter?
>Dragon Sight for blight taint.

>>42658632
>How about you just escort us to the docks instead of bothering the enchanter with some strangers that are going to be gone as fast as humanly possible?

>>42658632
>>Other (write-in)
"I'm sorry, I must refuse. There have been too many attempts upon my life in the past fortnight for me to relax. I would submit to guarded travel to the ferry, but I will not submit to removing violent thoughts, when those were the only thing that has saved me."

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"How about we don't do that, and instead you just escort us to the docks?"

The knight shakes his head.

"I'm sorry, but rules are rules. I really hope that you don't force me to enforce the rules, miss."

You sigh a little.

"I'm not yielding the only thing that has kept me alive."

For good measure you flick on your sight briefly. There's a glowing bottle at his hip, and a mass of glow in one of the buildings near the center of town.

>Try to slip past him and get to the docks
>Try to find another way across
>Relent
>Other (write-in)

>>42658849
>Try to slip past him and get to the docks

Is anyone else just sick to death of the bureaucratic nightmare that is this nation? Fuck, man. Once we can fly for extended periods of time I say we just pick up the entire Order and ship off to a new continent.

>>42658849
>break his bottle.