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You watch the foliage making a mad dash to the West at an impressive pace for something that should be completely inanimate. You can't tell what's moving it, but you have a feeling you know what it's running from. A group of maybe fifteen or twenty men on air bikes are chasing it. From this high up you can't make out much more beyond that, but it's very easily the strangest thing you've ever seen in your life.

What do you do?

>>46531827
Keep watch and see what happens. Ask the engineers if they got that veil thingy working.

>>46531827
Take the Beast and chase after it.

>>46531827

Call up wella. Shes our local now. What the bloody hell is going on, wot wot.

>>46531923
Actually you're almost to Ao by now. Miles from Peck.

>>46531827
Macbeth would be proud.
Lets see if we can pull up along side.

>>46531827
>You watch the foliage making a mad dash to the West at an impressive pace for something that should be completely inanimate. You can't tell what's moving it, but you have a feeling you know what it's running from. A group of maybe fifteen or twenty men on air bikes are chasing it. From this high up you can't make out much more beyond that, but it's very easily the strangest thing you've ever seen in your life.

>Watch and see what happens

Sleepy said it. Get our veil online and shadow them. If we need to we can unveil and use our loud speakers to spook the bikers away. I wanna save these things and get them to join our crew if possible. I'm really hyped to get a forest on our airship guys.

>>46531965
The veil isn't quite online just yet, but it will be within a few hours. Shortly before you reach Ao, at least.

But watching them is perfectly doable.

Roll 1d20.

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>46532007

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>46532007

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>46532007
Ahh my old foe, the d20!

>>46532029
Writing.

>>46532029
Ouch. Whatever we tried to do, our years as a merchant hasn't prepared us for it.

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>>46532050
Apparently we're blind as a bat

You bring the ship down a bit to get a better look at the bikers, the trees and anything else you can find. However, a vehicle of this size is not terribly stealthy and the bikers and (you think?) the trees must've noticed you. Both are spazzing out a bit, the bikers are pulling off to the side and readying their weapons after realizing you have no navy markings or identification of any sort. They haven't opened fire yet, but they're very much on edge.

The trees are shedding an awful lot of leaves, but beyond that you have no idea what they're up to.

If you were trying to gleam any kind of information from this almost comical event, it's not happening now that both parties are terrified.

What next?

>>46532131
Radio the bikers, ask what they're doing

>>46532131
Hello bikers and trees. We are headed towards Ao correct? Also why are trees moving and why are you chasing them?

>>46532131
>Loudspeakers. Say we're militant environmentalists, and to back off or face our righteous judgement.

I'm flying by the seat of my pants. Can we radio our current crew and try and get a name for these weird things?

>>46532172
This. Use those charisma skills Isaac.

You get on the shortwave and try hailing the guys on bikes. The trees, you imagine, don't have any sort of long-range communication devices. Though they're moving, so all best are off at the moment.

"Uh, ahoy." you say, trying not to sound too completely baffled.

"Who the fuck is this?" a gruff voice answers through a bit of static, "You ain't navy. We ain't here to fuck with no pirates and we got nothin' on us. Just let us collect and we'll be on our way. She's worthless to you."

Your reply?

>>46532271

"Hello Good Sirs! We'd be on a hunting trip for large great beasts to fell with the large calibre guns on our ship. (Have servitors cycle the guns for effect) Have you seen any around recently? You gentlemen appear to indulging in some sport. Pray tell, what be the name of the game?

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>>46532271
>Actually she's worth quite a bit to me. You on the other hand? I'm not so sure about.

We've gotta get this tree waifu. Trees are excellent informants.

>>46532294
Supporting. Also, ask who they are.

>>46532271
She? I'm afraid I don't understand. Please enlighten me as to who or what you seem to be talking about. Also who are you?

"Hello Good Sirs!" you say, "We'd be on a hunting trip for large great beasts to fell with the large caliber guns on our ship." you get the automatons to spin up some of the guns on your belly, making a rather impressive whirring noise. "Have you seen any around recently? You gentlemen appear to indulging in some sport. Pray tell, what be the name of the game? And can I inquire as to your names?"

Roll 1d20. This is a roll-under.

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>46532420

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>46532420

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>46532420
Giving it a shot. '

>>46532271
Who's this she? is this she in the nautical sense or in a literal personal sense?

>>46532454
Whoops.

Writing.

>>46532454
Dice gods are fickle beings

>>46532454

Bloody wot, /tg/ dice.

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>>46532454
We just needed to get our strike in, apparently.

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Possible pirate flag design?

>>46532420
>This is a roll-under.

>changing the dice mid-thread

Why do people do this?

All it does is cause problems.

>>46532524
I think we want something a little less kill-y. We're not your average squashbucklers after all.

The whirring guns, fact that you are immense and have no markings pretty much solidify the fact that, to these guys, you're pirates looking for an easy mark. They all hit the gas and speed off East, back where they came from. They don't even give you an answer, they're just out of there.

The trees, seeing an opportunity, follow suit. They make for the South at fever pace. You could probably catch one of them if you launched the lander right now, but not both. Where do you go?

>>46532559
Head towards Ao. Forget them they didn't help so put it behind us.

>>46532544
I'd say it's more of a warning to not fuck with us. But hey discussion is most apt.

>>46532559

Follow the trees.

>>46532559

You guys know my vote. Steal us some trees.

>>46532620
Trees ho! Writing.

Some people just have no courtesy. Oh well, they're not the interesting thing here. You have some sentient plantlife to catch.

You hop into the lander, informing the crew to watch for those bikers coming back. Moments later you're easily overtaking the leafy fugitives in the lander. They're fast for trees, but that's not saying much. You cut them off, landing in front of them carefully, making sure to give yourself ample reaction room in case they try to charge you.

Thankfully they don't. They simply stop, huddle together again and shed leaves once again. It'd be cute if it weren't so weird. You exit the craft with your hands up to show you're not a threat. You're not sure what to really say to a bunch of trees, but thankfully that problem is solved for you.

"Child of man, leave me be!" a soft, feminine voice comes from somewhere within the branches, "I want no trouble, I wish only to flee!"

So now they talk, too.

What's your reply?

>>46532772

"Calm your leaves lady, that was mostly for show earlier. Saw you getting chased by that lot and wanted to know what was going on."

>>46532772
>I mean no harm, but since I scared off the other half of this chase it falls on you to answer my questions. How can trees move, and what are you whom can command them?

>>46532772
>I don't mean you any harm Miss Talking Moving Forest, just wanted to know why they were chasing you. Also we have a Tul onboard, if you'd rather talk to her.

Something like that.

>>46532907
Oh yeah, magic is sort of a thing. This might be a witch rather than a green tree lady.

>>46532907
>Also we have a Tul onboard, if you'd rather talk to her.

We don't just go around advertising we have a walking mana battery around.

>>46532994
> Literally walked around two towns with her
Plus magic lady might like magic tree lady.

>>46532994
Eh, it's sort of implied since we're running such a big ship. It'd be hard for her to talk though, seeing as how she needs to be in the co-pilot seat for the ship to run.

"Calm your leaves, lady, that was mostly for show earlier. Saw you getting chased by that lot and wanted to know what was going on." you say, slowly approaching the shivering flora to try and get a peek at what's talking.

"You don't work for the hunters of trees?" the voice replies, "If your words are true, let me live! They chase and attack us, myself and my friends. Blades, fire, guns and more. I cannot defend against the magics of man for long...they wish to harvest them to fuel their machines and build their insults to nature. I move them, keep them safe, but I am but one and they are many...my name is Ay'ia. Who are you that chased them off, sir?"

What do you tell her?

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>>46532772
Druid? Plant elemental? I smell something fun to draw.

sorry this is the first time ive managed to catch one of these threads.

>>46533106
I'm Isaac, captain of the Beast and here to help!

>>46533106

What machines? They build stuff from you?

>>46533106
"Name's Isaac, captain of that big vessel. And, if you don't mind me asking, what are you exactly?"

>>46533204
Writing!

Yahallo

"I'm Isaac. I'm the captain of that vessel over there." you motion toward the Beast, hovering peacefully in the air, "If you don't mind me asking, what are you, exactly? Are you saying they built machines from you? Your kind, perhaps?"

"Isaac...you are a rare member of your kind, Isaac... They build naught from me, sir. I am only a protector. They build with my friends." the trees shake slightly, "They cannot move or defend themselves on their own. I can make them. But those men wish to slay them and create spaces to live inside using their bodies. It is barbaric... As for what I am..." there is a rustling from the leaves for a moment, then a small female form drops down from one of the hidden branches. Her skin is a soft tan with the consistency of smooth bark. Her hair is made of ivy, long, green and dragging on the ground behind her. Her eyes and mouth are little more than holes in the "wood" of her face that move and blink as if they were flesh and blood. She has the occasional flower here and there, but with little else defining feature save for a rather nasty looking crack in the side of her abdomen that is sealed shut somewhat with sap like a scab. She is holding it delicately. It looks painful by the way she moves.

"I am a Dryad. A child of the forest and guardian of it's denizens...this is all that remains of my lands..." she looks defeated and leans against one of the trees. "I've nowhere to go...they will hunt me down if I go back home. They see me as but an obstacle to their greed..."

What do you say?

>>46533438
Back in a sec, discuss amongst yourselves! If you wish to design a flag, feel free! Just try not to get too out of hand!

>>46533438
Since we're going to Ao, maybe we can detour south and bring her to the Forest of Fae?

>>46533438
> I'm an outcast myself, though I'm still guilty of many of the crimes of my kind I suppose. Maybe I could try and right a few of our wrongs?

Now I don't want to be a wet blanket, but how feasible is it to host a large grove of trees on the Beast? I'm not even talking about space. We've probably got a parade ground for that. Just how hard would it be to ship crate after crate of soil onto the beast to accommodate these trees.

>>46533626
We have an entire empty cargo hold. Probably not gonna be hard, just tedious.

If we try the waifu route it's stone walls and sod roofs for us from now til the end of time. And we don't even want to mention chairs or our old wagon.

>>46533626

I think it should be fairly easy.

This be a major vessel of the navy, possible flagship. Theres got to be an observation deck.

We should be able to repurpose it.

Also, the output from the shitter can be the fertiliser.

>>46533626
>>46533648
You could store them in the cargo hold no problem and you have more than enough automatons to do it before too long. But sunlight is an issue. Trees need sunlight. The rooftop expanse could easily fix that problem, but would take considerably longer to haul soil up there.

We can put it to a vote, if you'd like.

>>46533684
I do declare, this was a match made in heaven. Move over battery waifu, this relationship is symbiotic.

>>46533703

Soil is soil.

We just need to park them up there for now and pick up soil from a different location and just provide them with water for now.

We don't need the soil from here.

Where are we gonna transport them to anyway? Trees and dryads don't sound like they make for terribly good crewmen.

>>46533739
That is a possibility, but plants don't last too terribly long without it. You'd have to get them soil pretty soon before they start dying, but it is an option.

>>46533762

Just one day.

Staying here is smuck bait. Those guys will be back.

We just move on to our next location, settle down and have the automata haul the soil through the night.

>>46533761

They sort of do actually. Look, they're running and even appear to have intelligence. Robotic automata with a core of intelligent tree crew with a vested interest in keeping their sanctuary alive.

Also. They do NOT need pay.

Alright, I'll put it to a vote to save time.
>Spend the time hauling the soil to the upper expanse
>Haul the soil and trees into the cargo hold
>Haul the trees into the hold without soil
>Sorry, toots, you're on your own

>>46533822
>>Haul the trees into the hold without soil

We'll get soil from the next location and once we're airborne, the automata can work on shifting the trees to the upper expanse while we're on the move.

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>>46533499
If we're going to haul trees on top of the Beast, maybe incorporate them? They'll be a pretty noticeable icon of our Beast after all. Then sky blue for freedom and black because it goes with anything.

>>46533822
>>Haul the trees into the hold without soil

>>46533822
>Haul the trees into the hold

Then later we can grab some soil and plant them on the upper expanse.

>>46533885
Alright, going with this then. Writing.

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>>46533865

Use this tree and you have a deal.

>>46533910

Then have the machines start shifting them upstairs once we're moving.

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>>46533912
Are they fluffy topped trees or are they pointy topped trees? this is important.

"You're in luck, then, Ay'ia, because I just so happen to have a ship full of people with nowhere to go...kinda. If you're interested in traveling the world in one of the safest ships in the world, I'd be more than happy to have you and your unique talents aboard."

She stares in disbelief for a moment. You think. Hard to tell emotion with someone devoid of eyes, but you're pretty sure it's disbelief. "Truly? You would ferry us from danger? You would be our savior, sir? I...I cannot reward you with much, I must confess. I have naught but my abilities and my friends with me. Is this acceptable?"

"Sure, why not? I'm sure it'd be fun. How many can say they've met a real Dryad, much less have one on their crew. Though, there is a small issue. See, those guys are gonna be back pretty soon, and with friends I'll wager. As easy as it could be to kill 'em, I'm not really the 'slaughtering scores of men' type. So, in the interest of time, we'd need to store your trees inside...and without soil...not indefinitely, that is! Just until we get some distance. Not more than a day, tops."

Ay'ia looks concerned. You think. Those eyes are really a problem when it comes to reading her. "A day?" you nod, "...Very well. If it means our salvation, I shall accept your terms. I am trusting you, Isaac. You are the first of flesh and bone that has shown me such kindness. I am...unsure how humans show gratitude, but will do my best to be of use." she and the trees bow lightly.

It takes a little helping via the automatons to get the trees into the cargo hold, but it gets done. Ay'ia looks a little worse for wear by the end, but assures you she'll be alright. But the sooner you get some soil and sun, the better.

Do you make for Ao from here or head elsewhere first? Ao is only about an hour or two away.

>>46534127
Do you mean deciduous/coniferous?

>>46534127
Fluffy-topped. The generic "yup, that's a tree" kind you see drawn into pictures of average forests. They're no towering giants or anything, either. Maybe 30 feet tall or so.
>>46534263
They are deciduous. I knew what he meant.

>>46534238
Sure head to Ao.

>>46534238

Which direction did the bikers flee at?

If they ran to Ao, we're shouldn't head there.

>>46534238
Go to Ao. We can have the automatons dig up soil for the trees when we get there.

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>>46534263
I dunno anon I don't eat trees. I can't tell if they're delicious.

This is entirely rough as I don't seem to have as much time to draw as I thought I would.

>>46534360
Bark tends to be rough, anon.

I would know, as I do eat trees.

>>46534324
They headed East, but you didn't follow them, so you're not sure if they headed to Ao or not.
>>46534360
Awesome, though her mouth can move just FYI. Not quite Shyguy mask like that. Also her hair is free-flowing and drags along the ground. But thank you! Other than those things that's pretty much exactly how I pictured her!
>>46534392
Fiber's good for you!

Writing. Long post incoming.

>>46534458
>Awesome, though her mouth can move just FYI. Not quite Shyguy mask like that. Also her hair is free-flowing and drags along the ground. But thank you! Other than those things that's pretty much exactly how I pictured her!
It was super quick based on the breif description
I'll be sure to do a better job now.

Clothes or Au Natural?

>>46534238
I'd say head to Ao and park in the middle of nowhere.

Get those Automatons working on some nice landscaping, Talk to Freyja and Lisa to see how they're taking the change and then get Ruul out of the ship. He's been our wingman so far and I'd like to continue the trend. Maybe Wella will appreciate the time to herself. Also, explain to everyone we are on a no-wood stance starting now. Fossil fuels and magic only.

>>46534495

Bikini made of leaves.

>>46534495
I believe she had strategically placed flowers.

>>46534574
Woods necessary for things. It's not like damecon can be done well with crew lugging steel. I think as long as we don't harvest sentient wood, we're ok.

>>46534360
>>46534458
I dunno, I sorta like the howling banshee look.

You get everything ready and lift off. Ay'ia is going to stay in the cargo hold for now to "keep her friends calm". Not sure how nervous trees can get, but she's the expert. You promise her you'll be landing before too long.

You head off in the direction of Ao, keeping an eye out for the biker gang as you fly, but don't notice anything suspicious. They might have a hideout somewhere or headed into Ao itself. Freyja thanks you for your compassion and for spilling no blood. She says it takes real integrity to do that. Apparently it's believed that Tul and Dryads share a common ancestor, but evidence is spotty at best. Lisa just wants to see "the tree lady".

Before long, Ruul radios the bridge letting you know to give the veil a shot, saying it "should work". You cross your fingers and hit the button. The effect is slow, quiet, but one of the most beautiful things you've ever laid your eyes on, and you've been around the block once or twice.
Veil is an apt name, as a shimmering, silky-looking sheet of translucent magic flows over the whole of the Beast, reminding you if the aurora borealis in the north. Then another and another, each sheet draping itself over the whole of your ship like a protective blanket. Then, nothing. It goes clear. Everything is working correctly, if the readouts are accurate, but to you nothing has changed. You suppose it's working...maybe. Lisa claps and wants to see it again.

As the sun begins to set over the horizon, the city of Ao comes into view. It's sizable, though no Porphyra, with angular buildings and tiled roofs. The sunset behind it makes it rather lovely. However, you can see a small tent city of disheveled and sickly people just outside the entrance. Several people are making demonstrations, burning flags and shouting to angry mobs of people waving weapons and farm equipment. Nobody seems to notice you yet. Guess the veil works.

You set down out far enough to not be noticed by anyone.

(Cont.)

The veil will hold indefinitely so long as Freyja is aboard, but will shut down if she leaves or the weapons systems are readied. You set the automatons to begin transporting soil to the rooftop expanse. They will work through the night to bring the trees up, then return when finished.

Do you wish to go anywhere now or will you spend the night on the Beast? You can also have Ruul and Wella work on one of the other systems or automatons once rested and ready, if you want.

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>>46534578
Could've gone with that. Could will go with that eventually.
>>46534606
Strategically what now?

>>46534840
Perfect. That is Ay'ia.

>>46534836

Have Wella work on the Barrier system.

We'll go to the camp with Ruul.

>>46534854
I feel bad about forgetting the flowers

>>46534836
Spend a night on the Beast to get to know our new arrivals and make sure they're comfy.

I can work with >>46534867, it's really either that or general automaton upgrades.

>>46534836

>>46534867
This. Though I'd like the Launch Platforms up so we can get some ace pilots.

>>46534888
We'll just say it's Winter and they haven't budded right now. No worries.
>>46534903
They can also work on the launching bay. Also a new project if you have anything in mind. Though new projects take longer, since they'd be working on them from from the ground up.

So, one vote to go into town, one vote to sleep and start fresh in the morning.

Captcha just had me select pictures of flowers.

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>>46534840

>>46534982
we're sorta lacking in pilots.

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>>46535013

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>>46535039
oh dear... its a reaction face pileup.

Maybe soon I can make some for this.

>>46535024
Still, better to have the pads up as we get fresh meat. Some people may show interest, and we can give them free time to practice.

>>46535024
Yet.

Alright, gonna go with head into town with Ruul. Wella will begin working on the barrier once rested. Writing!

>>46535024
What do you mean, anon?

Only one man pilots the ship, and that man is us, the captain!

And we gut anyone who calls it a boat.

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>>46535024
We can always hire some.

>>46535074
We'd probably find a not!CaptainJackSparrow before we found his expy.

You gear up to head into town. Tent cities tend to be either shitholes or havens for cheap and hard-to-find goods...usually shitholes, though. Freyja warns you to be cautious. The legal slavery and angry mobs are very likely to be dangerous. You bring some rifles with you just in case.

The tent city is mostly destitute and miserable people with little to their name. A few people begging for food or money, some fights over trivial things and quite a number of angry citizens. Things that catch your eye: a very modest "bazaar" of sorts. People hawking their meager possessions in hopes of getting much-needed money for essentials.

An elvish man standing on a soap box, surrounded by rather tough-looking elves and dwarves with guns, shouting about extra-species freedoms, the treatment of their kind as equals and general "angry mob" stuff. They have white banners with E.L.F. written on them in red paint.

Two women arguing with the guards at the gate who are preventing anyone without the proper papers from entering the city. They're wearing flowy, trouser-robe outfits you've seen some of the people of Ao wear, have tightly-bound ponytails, strange, curved swords at their hips.

What would you like to check out first?

>>46535233
The bazaar?

>>46535233
CURVED swords?

Fuck that shit, stay where we belong, where the money flows. The bazaar!

>>46535233
Might as well check the bazaar

>>46535233
Bazaar

>>46535233
Bazaar.

Gotta be careful with the money though.

>>46535233
>Examine the beggars. It may be a longshot, but there could be a few diamonds in the rough.

The angry mob isn't exactly our group of people. We like the outcasts, but not the type that roar angrily at each other. Too much chance of a mutiny.

Do we in fact - have proper papers? We were a merchant after all.

>>46535354
I get the feeling you guys want the bazaar.

Roll 1d20.

>>46535350
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMHle170Kxw

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>46535375

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>46535375

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>46535375

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>>46535389
The dice gods hate us today

>>46535407
Verily

>>46535407
We look much too rich NOT to mug. Suddenly I want to invest in getting a few shiny new bodyguards.

>>46535355
You do have official papers that grant you the right to be a trader, but they are only Class C. Minor stuff and in limited quantities. For reference, Class A are rich merchants that run whole companies and trade convoys that rake in thousands and thousands of gold a day, if not more.
>>46535389
You find fuckall. Nothing is really worth anything. Old, ratty clothes. Dolls that are more mildew than stuffing. Rusty hand tools. It's all junk.

Where next?

>>46535464
Maybe we can cut some kind of deal with the ELF, do merc work for them in exchange for stuff?

>>46535464
Go to hear the speaker abit.

Just hear his grievances out before we head into the city. Don't approach the elf personally for now. A rabble rouser so close to the city? You bet their IA is watching.

>roll high:2

>roll low:19

>roll high:2

Are you going to tell us to roll middlingly next and we'll roll a 1 or 20?

You're rustling my fucking jimmies, m8.

>>46535464
See what the elf dude is going for?

>>46535498
Roll 1d20.
>>46535545
The single roll under was because you were trying to not accidentally intimidate them. You accidentally scared them the fuck off because you are terrifying. It won't happen often, don't worry.

>>46535464
Since everyone wants it, surreptitiously listen to their rally. If we want to recruit however, I'd rather get some of the less volatile members.

>>46535595
Nah, m8.

It will happen again.

Trust.

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>46535595

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>46535595

>>46535620
Nice crit. Writing.

>>46535620

Wee lad.

You approach the mob, carefully standing at the back as not to agitate anyone. The elf on the soap box is passionate, but you have a feeling these guys aren't super friendly to humans.

"They invite us to their lands!" he shouts, "They promise us all the comforts of home, of love and welcoming people! Lies! The filth treat us as dogs to do their dirtiest, most insulting jobs at best, vermin to be exterminated at worst! They care not for our customs or heritage! They care not for our families, our beliefs, our needs! We are laughed at like jokes! Spit on! And now! Now, they dare to enslave our kind with their barbaric, insane laws!" the crowd boos, waving blades and guns.

"Some of you have family within those walls right now! Sons used as automatons of flesh! Daughters forced into prostitution by monsters with whips! I, myself, have been victim of these practices!" He pulls back his collar to reveal a brand of some kind of family crest on his collarbone. The crowd boos again. "They are beasts that need taming, and we-" he stops and locks eyes with you. A look of fury and disgust...that fades into shock. He jumps down from his box and pushes his way through up to you, getting directly into your face.

He grasps your hand and raises it into the air. "And yet, my brothers and sisters, among them there are still champions to our cause! Friends to the Extraspecies Liberation Front!" the crowd cheers and applauds at this.

He puts his arm around your shoulders. "Tell me, my roundea-urm, human friend. Who are you, that we can call friend? Spin us your story that all these fine people can know you!"

What do you say?

>>46535865
I know we're a suave merchant, but all I can think of is "Uhh, wah?"

Also, the elf complaining about racism is racist. Nice.

>>46535865
Isaac and tell him of our own struggles. Though nothing that compares to their own?

Did this guy see us jack the Beast with Freyja? Or wait, are we on a wanted poster or something? Dang the government works fast when you steal their prized doomsday device.

>>46535918
Supporting. Maybe somehow try to work in that we got a ship with loads of ordnance if they're up for armed revolution and all that

>>46535865
We stole something from the government, saved a forest, killed a giant anglerfish monster, and we're an 8/10 at worst.

>>46535949
He'd probably have to have seen us personally. Government probably wouldn't put our faces on a wanted poster, you don't want to tell the world 'Doomsday Ship Lost to a Bunch of Rebels'

>>46535949
No, he just saw some armed humans at his "fuck the humies" rally and assumed you were there as part of the mob. Someone sympathetic to their cause.

>>46535952
>>46535918
Writing.

>>46535952
I guess we WERE in an armed revolution at the beginning. The rest of our group sorta died though. I dunno, I dislike the notion of creating a roaming band of lawless cutthroats, what with Lisa and Ay'ia aboard.

>>46536013
We don't have to make them our crew, we can just offer them fire support from our battleship, or sell them ammo and guns we have onboard

>>46536013
We create instead a roaming fortress/forest home for the persecuted. Which is invisible. And can kill anyone who looks at it.

>>46535952

Can we not mention the ship.

Seems like a bad idea for now. If the mob really wanted, I don't think we could hold them off if they stormed the beast.

>>46536087
Exactly! The dregs and the outcasts have a place to call home in the belly of our Beast. (That can kill you) We're not bad people, just a nation floating like a leaf on the wind. (Did I mention we can kill you?)

"Uh, wah?" you stutter out, taken aback.

"U'Wah!" the elf shouts, and the mob cheers. "A fine human name! Tell us, U'Wah, what of your fight against the anti-extraspecies establishment? Have you come to lend us aid in the freeing of our families from their oppressive clutches? Do you know of a way into the city?" he gasps, wide-eyed "Or perhaps you plan to enter the city on our behalf? None would suspect one of their own to be working for the side of righteousness!"

"Well, uh..." you scratch the back of your head, "I do have a ship I stole. Airship. Got it from the navy. Lots of guns and the like. I'm pretty proud of it, actually. What would you need of me? Oh, and it's Isaac, actually."

"Fantastic!" he slaps you on the back, laughing, "Absolutely fantastic, U'Wah! We could certainly use your Isaac to lay waste to this offending city! They shall know terror the likes no humans have ever known! We will repay blood with blood! Ah, but, we will need to get our people out first. Don't want to raze everything before rescuing the only worthwhile souls in the whole damned thing, right?" he laughs again, so does the mob.

"So! What plan do you have to free them before the destruction begins, U'Wah? Stealth? Deception? A secret entrance, perhaps?"

Your answer?

>>46536205

"No I intended to walk right in the front door."

Inb4 they misunderstand it as STORM THE GATES

>>46536205
Wait slow down. What?

>>46536205
Deception is the name of the game. Our ship may no longer look Navy but we ourselves can.

>ITT: People can't find a decent wrench but they can get wrapped up in a revolution that will in no way benefit them

Why?

>>46536205
Help, help, the sub-humans are attacking me! ...On second thought, no. Just spout some bull and get out of there. Buy a mask. Sleep with one eye open.

>>46536239
We may have the uniforms, but we don't have the protocol or the paperwork for foolproof disguising. We'd essentially rely on the Bavarian Fire Drill to do it.

>>46536244
If we break out of this setup now we are gonna get crushed and killed by the mob.

Right now just throw shit at them and get out of the crowd first.

>>46536256
If anyone could pull it off it'd be us. Still, I don't like our chances. Or bringing that sort of bad press.

>>46536205
S-slow down there, I'm all for justice, but most of the people in my care arent the fighting sort. Women and children, you know? I was going to offer a safe haven to all who would leave.

Dont want to use guns made by oppressors, now do we?

>>46536326
This I could get behind.

"Personally, I've had all I owned stolen by the government, but if we retaliated by burning their cities to the ground we would create even more victims like ourselves."

Okay, some conflicting ideas here. I see some steam for "dress up like soldiers and BFD your way into the city and some for a "woah, slow down Che, I'm just here to evacuate the downtrodden" approach.

Putting it to a vote:
>Use the uniforms to sneak into the city
>Tell him you just want to give some people who want out a chance to start over

>>46536326
The problem being their state goal is the freeing of their enslaved brethren behind the city walls.

>>46536377
>>Tell him you just want to give some people who want out a chance to start over

>>46536363
(Still me)
The elf did say
>"They invite us to their lands!" he shouts, "They promise us all the comforts of home, of love and welcoming people! Lies! The filth treat us as dogs to do their dirtiest, most insulting jobs at best, vermin to be exterminated at worst!

This though. I'm not sure many would be receptive. Or anything other than hostile to the idea.

>>46536377
>>Use the uniforms to sneak into the city
Don't want to start some shit before getting to know the lay of the land yeah?

>>46536423
Just an FYI, you could still try to get into the city even if you don't go with the plan. This is just saying you're going with the ELF mobs.

>>46536377
Both. We'll attempt to liberate their families from the city, but no more than that. Those that wish to find a better life can take a chance with us and "Issac". Those who continue to fight for fighting's sake will remain here. So says U'wah!

>>46536445

We should just go in ourselves to reconnoiter.

>>46536445
Ohkay. Still don't want to start shit immediately even if we go with them ya know?

We're at a bit of an impasse. Anyone wanna be the tie-breaker? Or should I just flip a "coin"?

>>46536545
Ill change to the other option to get it going.

>>46536545
Both wins! You know you want to!

>>46536558
Igh't. Thanks for moving things along! Writing!

You don't like the smell of what this guy is cooking. You're all for revolution and the like, but this guy is talking about the eradication of thousands of innocent lives to save a few dozen. Plus you're preeeetty sure he's racist.

"Hey, uh...so...not sure how to say this, but..." you shuffle your feet a little, feeling pretty awkward right now, "I was thinking more along the lines of giving those that want a new place to live that want out of this kinda squalor. I'm in the need of good, hardworking crew right now. Sooo..."

The elf sighs heavily, then turns to the crowd, holding up a single finger. He leads you away from them for a second, speaking quietly. "Look, U'Wah, my friend. My compatriot. These guys, they're a little on edge. Lot of injustice, lot of pent-up rage and frustration. Obviously, you know? But they want immediate action. I get it, these kinds of things are scary. Gunfire and fighting and 'aaah, it's on fire!' kinda stuff going on. But c'mon, look at you." he pats your chest, "You're a strapping guy! You stole from the navy! That's pretty impressive! You can work miracles if you put your mind to it! Trust me, you'll do fine! And, hey, even if something happens, you'd be a hero! Sung about for ages to come! You'd be U'Wah the Liberator! U'Wah the Freedom Fighter!"

"Isaac..." you say flatly.

"Yeah, and your ship, too, of course! Isaac, Winged Salvation! Sounds nice, huh? So, what do you say? Wanna become a legend?"

"I...I really just want to help people start over." you say, a sheepish grin on your face, "They'd be safe with me and have paying jo-" he cuts you off with a hand to your face. He shakes his head and sighs.

He walks back to the mob. "Sorry, brothers and sisters, it appears I was mistaken. Our 'savior' isn't much different from the other humans after all..." the crowd boos, a few nasty words are spat your way, "But have faith! Our time will come! We will have our retribution!"

Roll 1d20.

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>46536760
weeee

>>46536771
Pretty good fampai.

>>46536771
>inb4 "Dis dumb motherfucker said dwarves were shit and elves are great, who wants a job and to fly?"

>>46536771
A decently-sized throng of people approach you as you walk away. Able-bodied men and women willing to work for cheap just for the chance to get out of that hole. You gain 30 crew members, each working for 10G/week.

Where will you go next? The women are still arguing with the gate guards. You could try to use your trader license to gain access, or disguise yourself as Navy to BFD in. Or you could just go back to Beast and come back in the morning.

>>46536847
Find out why the women are arguing there.

What is BFD?

>>46536847
Might as well see what the women are arguing about.

>>46536870
Bavarian Fire Drill

Also late to the game, but DM, thank you for the engaging story.

>>46536870
Bavarian Fire Drill. Essentially going in, saying "I AM IMPORTANT DON'T QUESTION IT, JUST GET OUT OF THE WAY IMPORTANT/DANGEROUS SHIT HAPPENING!" Bluffing, essentially.

>>46536847
Let the elves and dwarves get their things in order and enter the city in the meantime.

>>46536881
Well thank you, anon. I'm glad you enjoy it!

Talking up the local ladies it is. Writing!

We keep on recruiting but how many people do we need?

Extra-species are there for flavouring and cool factor and waifu battery points.

>>46536886
>>46536872

Ahhh thanks anons.

>>46536903
You have space for around 600. ("Special" characters like Freyja, Ruul, Ay'ia etc. don't count towards this total.)

Back to writing.

You inform the new crew to head "that way and look for the automatons shoveling dirt into nowhere". They're confused at first, but you tell them it'll make sense soon enough. They walk off muttering in confusion.

You head up to the gate, the two women almost shouting at the stubborn guards. Twins, they are! Apparently, from what you can gather from a minute of eavesdropping, they have important things to discuss with the governor-king (the Porphyrian crown recognizes long-standing lineages, but their official title is "governor") and the court. You can't quite figure out who they are or what their jobs are, but you're guessing they either don't have papers or their paperwork doesn't allow them entrance to the city proper.

Your papers have gotten you out of some sticky situations before, they might grant you and Ruul access. Lots of traders have bodyguards or assistants to help with heavy lifting.

What will you do?

>>46537038
Excuse me soldiers, these ladies are with me. Here is my paper. Sorry for the delay.

Good work, I will put in a good word with your supervisor.

>>46537070
Backing something along these lines

>>46537070
>>46537131
Works for me! Let's see if you end up in jail or with a bullet in your face! Writing!

>>46537070
The guards might know for a fact they're not, but they've got an excuse to end the discussion. I like it.

>>46537147
Our papers are valid though?

>>46537173
Yes but this is a classic case of "buying alcohol for the minor in front of the cashier"

>>46537173
For a petty rank C merchant. Stuff like textiles and foodstuffs, maybe a trinket or two. We're allowed in, just not to sell exotic tree ladies.

>>46537195
Tree ladies are cute and not for selling.

>>46537199
Who knows where they dip their roots though.

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>>46537199
Tree ladies are for burning

>>46537190
Oh true.

Well the alternative of Bavarian Fire Dance will end up even worse as we are not in naval uniform.

>>46537225
antidryadfags get out

>>46537225
Roast her real good yeaaaa

So let us speculate as to why the Tuls are traveling with us.

>>46537225
Who is this 2D girl behind the fire?

>>46537285
The mom literally powers the ship, and there ain't no place safer than a flying fortress. Not like she can run anywhere else really.

The kid follows her mom.

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>>46537296

"Pardon me, gentlemen." you interrupt, whipping out your trade license, "These to ladies work for me. I was a little late, you'll have to forgive me. Travel, you know how it is."

The guard checks your license, looks at you, then to the women, who are shocked, but gradually catching on and going with it. He checks his pocket watch, then looks back at you. He sighs. "Next time, please get here sooner. They have been complaining for an hour. I had half a mind to put them in irons and just be done with it. Proceed inside, remember to register any and all goods...or individuals for trade entering or leaving the city at the trade guild. Thank you and welcome to Ao. Enjoy your stay."

You thank him and walk through, Ruul fighting another gigglefit and the women looking very confused, but not fighting it. They sort of seem like lost puppies at this moment. You guess they're not exactly used to needing to schmooze their way in places. Luckily, you are.

The city inside is very expansive, tall buildings and stalls as far as the eye can see. Food, baubles, earthenware, textiles and any number of other tradegoods catch your eye immediately. There are signs pointing every which way to any number of destinations, but directly ahead of you is a rather grand palace far at the end of the street. It's impressive. You turn to the confused twins once out of earshot of the guards.

"You're welcome." you say rather smugly.

They bow deeply. "Thank you, sir." they say in unison.

What do you say/do?

>>46537312
Introduce ourself and then ask them what they're doing Ao.

>>46537312
Introduction, ask them their names, and why they've been shouting for an hour

>>46537312
Names, why your here, what were you doing yelling for an hour at guards?

>>46537343
Writing!

>>46537312
So, seeing that i did manage to get you two in, whats your stories?

"So, since I helped you inside, I think it's only fair I get to know your names, no?"

"Rei." one says.

"Kei." the other says. They bow again. "We are in your debt, sir."

"I'm Isaac, the giggling idiot behind me is Ruul. Is there any particular reason you've been yelling at a guard for an hour? What are you here to do?"

They eye eachother nervously. "We...need to...speak to the governor." Rei says. You get the feeling they won't be telling you much more than that. "Though with security heightened as it is, it will be...difficult."

"We don't wish to be a burden, but..." Kei says, "Would your paperwork be able to grant us access to the palace? I realize you have already done much for us, but this favor would be immensely helpful for us...perhaps we could work out a deal of some sort? Our benefactor is a very generous man, perhaps he would be willing to reward you?"

Ruul nudges you in the side and smirks. You punch him in the arm. The smirk is still there.

You have never actually been in anything as fancy as a palace before. Your license has usually been used to get into guild-run bazaars or trading posts. You're not entirely confident it could get you in.

What do you say?

>>46537497
I am not comfortable getting you in without knowing your request. It is a give and take ladies.

>>46537497
Well, we can certainly try!
They're assassins aren't they?

>>46537497
I'm afraid I only have access to the trading post. I could ask some of my colleagues there however. You never know, I may get lucky.


On the other hand we could dare to stick our foot in our mouth again and mention our airship. God I hope we don't.

>>46537497
Might as well.

How are we gonna do this? I know it has something to do with the navy uniforms, but I don't know what.

>>46537551
DON'T MENTION THE AIRSHIP

>>46537497
Why? I'm not helping anymore without a clear and concise reason as to why you need to see the governor.

>>46537551
>>46537561
Hey, if people wanna bring up the airship, I won't stop them. This is your guys' game, I am but a humble storyteller.
>>46537593
Writing!

"Sorry, ladies, but I'm not comfortable with helping you to get in anywhere else without a clear and concise reason as to why you need to speak to the governor. I could get in enough trouble as it is letting you in here under false pretenses." you cross your arms.

Rei sighs, reaching into her...shirt? You're not really sure what to call these weird robes-with-pants they wear. Local fashion, maybe. She produces a sealed scroll. The seal itself looks very official, a very elaborate crest on it. The kind only high nobles have, with lots of flourishes and fancy fonts that cost more than most houses do. She puts it away again.

"We are here on behalf of the governor's brother to discuss the recent legalization of human trade. They are not on the...best of terms, so this seal will likely get us thrown out, or worse, so we have no way of entering the palace. We cannot reveal the contents of the letter, I hope you understand. It is meant for his eyes only..."

"Please, Isaac, sir." Kei bows, "If you could get us inside, we will see you rewarded handsomely for your assistance. You have our word.

Ah, politics. What's your answer? Your license is still only C, but there are more than one ways to skin a cat if you so chose.

hmm, they're neither assassins nor rich. I think theres no benefactor behind them.

If they were assassins, i suspect they would have stealthed past that first checkpoint easily. And if they were rich, no reason they wouldnt have papers to get through for their nefarious schemes.

>>46537732
Let's help them, and end slavery. It'd be nice to be rewarded handsomely as well. Not that we aren't already very handsome.

>>46537732
Let's do this! Stopping human trafficking ahoy!

>>46537732
See what we can do then.

Go to the local traders watering hole. There must be some lead we can use.

Helping maidens in need it is!

Writing.

>>46537732
I'm gonna revote for asking around in the trading post.

We might be able to do something with the navy uniforms, such as attempt to imply they have backup, but I think that'd be politically unwise. Kudos for being a pirate who ends slavery though.

>>46537816

No pirate.

We are the U'Wah of the floating city state Isacc.

Thinking about our future, getting the long range radio and then making Ruul carry around a radio transceiver might be a good idea. Easy to say "Shit just went down in the Palace! Scramble the fighters and pick me up ladies. Also, Ruul's dead but no big loss there."

>>46537861
Better than a N'wah.

>>46537861
>>46537892
Yfw the new crew we got are all still under the impression they're boarding the ship called Isacc.

>>46537910
>News spreads of a giant flying monster terrorizing the land
>The monster is called "Isacc the Beast"

>>46537948
And we get endless grief for being a beast.

>>46537948
I want the refugees to get around to talking about how great it is to be inside Isacc. And then she refuses to let Lisa near you.

"Alright, alright, I get it." you say, defeated, "I suppose ending the slave trade is pretty important, though I'm pretty unsure of how to go about it, to be honest. I don't think my license would get us inside anywhere as extravagant as a royal palace. I could try asking around the local traders guild, never know how that could turn out. Any other ideas?"

"Place seems to have a pretty extensive sewer system." Ruul says, tapping a manhole cover with his foot, "That's how people in these situations usually do it, right? Or the usual 'asking around seedy bars' plan. Nothin' fancy, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it."

"There are numerous bars and the like in the red light district." Rei says, pointing to a sign advertising numerous "gentleman's establishments" with an arrow pointing down one of the side-streets. "Perhaps we could get some information there?"

You also have been tossing around the navy uniforms in your head. You could try and just push your way through by masquerading as someone important. That could end pretty badly should they discover you're lying, but you' are pretty good at it.

With that, kind players, I'm going to have to end for tonight. Thank you all for playing, you make this QM's heart all aflutter with joy to run this game! If you enjoyed the thread, please follow me on Twitter and vote for it on the archive! I'll stick around for a little bit to answer any questions. But other than that, next quest will be on Thursday, 5PM PST! (I would do one tomorrow, but I'm going to be out. Sorry!)

>>46538003
Thanks for running, QM!

Tell me, do you ever use pics as references in your quests?

>>46538003
Thanks for running a great quest AM.

>>46538003
Thanks for running.

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>>46538038
I do have a few pictures, but not a ton. It's surprisingly hard to find pictures that accurately portray things I have in my mind.

Though I do have a picture of a character you haven't met yet made by a kind drawfriend.

>>46538003
Thanks for running AM.
Does the Government actually know that it was us, Isaac the Charming, who stole their Airship?
How long has it been since we stole it anyway?
Do they have anyway to actually find an invisble airship?
Who is best girl, Tul, Dryad, or Airship?

>>46538091
Thank you all for playing!
No, they don't have your name or face yet. (One of the downsides you would've faced had you chosen "Soldier" or "Criminal" as your starting class. Nice dodge there.)
It's been a few days. About 4 or 5, I believe?
You have no idea. You're a Trader, that kind of stuff is beyond your area of expertise.
You haven't met my favorite yet.

>>46538116
Your favourite is the Pirate Queen isn't it?

>>46538126
I am remaining silent on that.

>>46538116

Is Captain U'wah of Isacc The Beast a go?

>>46538137
Babsy is the best girl. Is Babsy the Pirate Queen? Probably not, you aren't Merc.

>>46538138
I mean, as far as the ELF guys know, that's your name and ship.
>>46538148
Vastly...VASTLY different characters.

>>46538155
Yes and they're also the first and primary crew.

Which means that any new crew we get will be deluged by CAPTAIN U'WAH and ISACC THE BEAST.

>>46538155
Hmmm, you said that 'vastly' a bit too capitalised for my liking AM. I'm onto you. We'll see when we cuddle Babsy on a sunny hillside if you're telling the truth.

>>46538165
I'm sure once we get back to the ship after the whole definitely not assassinating the Governor wraps up we can do a grand speech and tell them our name properly. Not all elves can be as dumb as Mr Agitator. Unless they are, then that would explain a lot.

>>46538192
Well, I mean, they were FOLLOWING the agitator.

#notallelves

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>>46538192

They signed on as crew, onto a ship they havn't set eyes yet on, at basically slave wage pay, so just contract slave instead of actual slave.

Get told directions, walk this way and you'll run into something you cant see.

They do it anyways without calling BULLSHIT.

What. Do you think.

>>46538207
>>46538203
You both make good points. We should put a passcode on the door to the Officer's Quarters so they can't get in and soil the place.

>>46538207
I'm glad someone caught on to how ludicrously stupid these people are. Enjoy your starting crew.
>>46538220
But anon...the soil is going to the roof.

>>46538228
They'll misread the signs and end up dumping it on our bed. Then we'll have to go share a bed with Freyja while it gets cleaned up.

>>46538003
Just to note: we could propose ourselves as hired mercs and request, politely, to see the govener, while the ship just hangs in the air above/infront of the gates.

As for our starting crew: We need to find a mr gibs as a priority, basically someone who knows his shit and willing to yell all the time.

>>46538861
Mrs Gibbs and Captain Jack U'wah i presume.

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>>46538062
I would love to help OP.