>>47589525

Tenngaru's northern half is littered with old roads, paths and forest trails. Most of them are only suitable for a horse, but that still leaves several that would accommodate a convoy of carriages. Of all the routes you could have taken, all the outposts you could have stopped at, the Ascetic knew exactly the right place to lay his traps.

The question, then, is how?

True enough, he could have used sorcery – spying on the Emperor's movements from afar, or even predicting them before the carriages ever started to roll. If that's true, then the game was rigged from the start – there was nothing any of you could have done. If not, though...

As the first blocky shapes of the Dragon's Head approach, you consider your options. Ra sent troops ahead to secure the outpost, troops who are now ash on the wind. It's possible that those troop movements tipped the Ascetic off, and the rest was simply a matter of a lucky guess. Or, you consider, there's the other option – the simple, but ever-present threat of treachery. One of those soldiers, or some other mongrel bastard, talked. Someone sold you out, for whatever meagre reward the Ascetic had to offer.

Relief is bright on the faces of the other soldiers as you arrive at the Dragon's Head, but you don't share their pleasure. Every man who crosses your path, you scrutinise carefully, searching them for any sign of treachery. Even the Emperor, helping a pale and demure Miura down from her carriage, is not above suspicion. He looks like quite the hero, struggling on despite the adversity thrown in his path.

“You've got a dark look in that eye of yours,” Ra murmurs to you, approaching from behind, “Something isn't quite right here, isn't that right?”

You glance around at that, looking into Ra's grim face.

“So,” he adds, “What do you think?”

>Just keep your eyes open, Ra
>Someone sold us out. I just need to work out who
>This whole damn trip was a mistake
>Other

>>47589530
>Other
Just 'Testing the Web' the entire convoy and see if anyone has treachery in their hearts.
>Just keep your eyes open, Ra

>>47589530
>>Just keep your eyes open, Ra
ye Moloch
sorry for participating before i couth up

>>47589530
The key is WHEN to use Testing the Web. Too soon, and it might be wasted effort. Let's wait until Sho is going to meet the head priest, when some of the troops start dispersing.
>Just keep your eyes open, Ra

>>47589530
>Even the Emperor, helping a pale and demure Miura down from her carriage, is not above suspicion.
That's a bit much, even for you Ira.

>>47589576
This, we are magic man for a reason. Just don't have it on too long lest we puke for the third time.

>>47589603
forgetting dood is one thing, but how did you manage to type "couth"?

>>47589530
>>47589576
I'd say go with this while we've got everyone in one place.

>>47589626
sorry, it early here and that was the autocorrect dood

Perhaps it's a little too early to burden Ra with your suspicions, as unfounded as they currently are. No doubt he has other concerns on his mind, and your fears could only add to that weight. As soon as you've got some kind of proof – even something meagre and incomplete would be enough to start with – you'll raise the issue. Until then, you'll be investigating things in your own way, under your own authority.

You're just being cautious, you tell Ra, so he'd better keep his eyes open as well.

“Always,” Ra promises, a weary smile touching his face. If the dark circles under his eyes are any indication, he's been running on very little sleep – if any at all. Hardly a unique thing to see among the convoy. “Regardless, I should get to work. There are matters to arrange, and to keep aware of. Come find me, Ira, if you want to check in.”

Murmuring an acknowledgement, you turn your eye upon the convoy and call upon Panoptes' magic. Shuddering slightly as the spell grips you, the world you look out upon takes on a surreal tint. Shimmering bonds appear between the various soldiers, linking their hearts and minds. Walking amongst them, you open up your senses and take in those bonds, tasting them for any hint of treachery or treason. An act of shameless voyeurism, you lay out their secrets and scrutinise them, one by one.

Among the soldiers themselves, the majority of the connections are ones of simple professionalism – men united in one service, and bound by one purpose. They look out for each other, and expect to be looked out for in turn. No treachery here – quite the opposite, in fact. Except... there is one dark, ugly stain upon their unity. One faint trace of deception, one man betraying another. Hungrily, you follow that thread of deceit, but the cause is a disappointing one – he is guilty of nothing more than taking his comrade's woman to bed.

Not quite the betrayal you were looking for.

[1/2]

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>>47589742

Moving past the soldiers, you look upon Sho and Miura. Both linked with bonds of affection – cruelly imbalanced, unfortunately for the young Emperor – there is no hint of treachery there. Miura regards the soldiers with gratitude and sadness, grieving for the men who lost their lives. There's a little guilt there as well, isn't there? If so, it's not shared by the Emperor – he holds the soldiers in high regard, but their deaths are written off as an acceptable loss. Perhaps that's the best way for a leader to think, with pragmatism, but it's still an ugly thing to taste. You move on.

Ishida, lurking nearby with the natural grace of a bodyguard, is a figure of mystery and some slight fear among the soldiers. They don't quite understand her, and she doesn't care to understand them. Still, there's nothing about her that suggests betrayal either – far from it. Her loyalties lie solely within the convoy, a personal connection with young Miura, and a strong duty towards Ra.

Turning your lone eye upon Ra himself, you see a strange hope colouring his bond with Sho, one tempered with caution. The boy is growing up, Ra seems to think, and slowly developing the responsibilities he needs. With such optimism in his heart, you can safely rule Ra out as the traitor – there would be no point in scheming against the Emperor. As that knowledge settles, you let the magic bleed away and consider what you've learned.

If there was a traitor, you think to yourself, they were never part of the convoy. Someone back at the capital, perhaps?

No shortage of vipers in that nest.

Grimacing a little as your stomach shifts – looking through inhuman eyes never really agreed with you – you approach Ra and greet him once more.

“Ira, was there something you wanted?” Ra asks, “I was just checking over our plans. We're making good time.”

>What are today's plans?
>I'm going to check with the local soldiers
>I wanted to speak with Holm before we get started
>Other

>>47589834
>>What are today's plans?

>>47589834
>>What are today's plans?
>I wanted to speak with Holm before we get started

>>47589834
>>What are today's plans?
>I wanted to speak with Holm before we get started

>>47589834
>What are today's plans?
>>I wanted to speak with Holm before we get started
Holm's gonna have quite a few words for the Emperor. If nothing else, this'll be fun to watch.

So, you ask, what are the plans for today?

“First thing – now, more or less – the Emperor is to present himself to the high priest here. I believe you know the man?” Ra checks his timetable, frowning a little, “It's just a formality, not any kind of serious discussion. Tradition, you understand?”

All too well. Important visitors – be they priest, Emperor or Wanderer – are typically urged to present themselves before the local leaders, often the head priest. The fact that the Emperor is following protocol is a good sign – he is, at the very least, prepared to be polite about this. For someone as... for someone like the Emperor, that's a good start.

“In the evening, the Emperor is set to meet with Lapis himself,” Ra continues, “You'll notice that the rest of the day has been left empty – The Emperor requested some private time, so he could escort Miura around and enjoy the city with her. Of course, I'll have soldiers following him at a discrete distance – private time or no, he cannot be left alone under the circumstances.”

Of course not. It would be the perfect time for any attackers to strike, while the Emperor was strolling about as though he didn't have a care in the world. The fact that he's sticking to this risky plan is absurd.”

“It is,” Ra agrees, “But you try telling him that.”

Good point. So, for now, they're going to see Holm?

“The high priest? Yes,” the old advisor nods, glancing through the streets towards the temple, “Are you coming with us?”

You were planning on, you reply, you wanted to speak with Holm before getting started. If you get moving now, you should be able to speak with the old tyrant in private. That is, unless Ra wanted you close by?

“Go on ahead,” he shakes his head, “We'll follow in your footsteps.”

In other words, you're the bait to draw out anyone who might be waiting in ambush. Allowing yourself a bitter smile, you set off into the streets of the Dragon's Head.

[1/2]

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>>47590065

One thing you notice, as you walk, is that nobody – not a single soul – is wearing one of those damned dragon masks. Every face you see is a human one, tight with a lingering, lurking tension. That same fear hangs over the entire town like a thick mist, tainting every little action. In the marketplace, deals are done in whispers, while even the fluttering prayer flags above seem listless and grey. It's too soon for news of the attack to have spread – there must be another reason for this anxiety.

Nothing reveals itself – be it explanation or attacker – as you arrive at the temple. There are a pair of soldiers flanking the entrance, however, a new addition to the staff here. Things must be desperate, you think, if Holm has allowed soldiers onto his territory.

A face you don't recognise greets you at the entrance, quickly showing you through to Holm when you explain your reasons for being here. Rather than waiting in his private quarters, Holm has already moved to a more formal chamber, one devoted to the purpose of receiving guests. The last time you were here, you think, it was to meet Miura. That... didn't end so well.

Holm paces, walking backwards and forwards with the kind of belligerent pace you expected from him. At the sound of your arrival, his head snaps up. “Oh,” he grunts, “It's you.”

And it's nice to see him too, you reply.

“Of course. We're being formal,” Holm sneers, eager to take out his foul mood on you, “It is my great pleasure to welcome you here, and to-” He snorts out a bitter laugh, not even bothering to finish his greeting.

Charming.

“Well? What do you want?” he snaps, “I've got enough problems, don't you know?”

>What problems are those?
>The Dragon's Head might be attacked. Are you prepared?
>Is Sunao about?
>I wanted to ask you something... (Write in)
>Other

>>47590137
>>What problems are those?
>The Dragon's Head might be attacked. Are you prepared?
>There's a Sorcerer about he already attacked the convoy once. There should be Wanderers on the way to help, but no telling if they'll get here in time.

>>47590149
>>47590137
This

>>47590137
>He snorts out a bitter laugh, not even bothering to finish his greeting.
Well, I laughed.

>So I don't think we'll need to worry about anybody shooting people up. We just need to deal with a couple sorcerous abominations.

>>47590137
>>What problems are those?
>Is Sunao about?

Problems, you repeat with more patience than Holm deserves, what problems are those?

“I have a spoilt brat ordering the entire town around, for one thing,” Holm explains, “That sounds like quite the problem, wouldn't you say?”

You don't think he's talking about Sunao here.

“I've been prepared to welcome the Emperor here, to treat him with the respect his position deserves,” Holm smirks at that, leaving his words deliberately ambiguous, “You saw the soldiers, didn't you? I'm taking this very seriously – we've already had one... situation. A man, a stranger, tried to attack some of the soldiers. He's dead now, of course, but it's cast something of a dark mood over the town.”

Frowning, you ask Holm to describe the attack. Could the Ascetic have reached the Dragon's Head before you?

“The soldiers would know more about it – I believe a man named Soren is taking care of that,” Holm scowls as he thinks, “But, from what I understand, a man tried to rush a group of soldiers with a hatchet. A madman, of course – they had rifles, and they outnumbered him. Nobody was injured... save for the lunatic himself. Let me make one thing clear – he wasn't one of us. He wasn't a local.”

So the Dragon's Head has already come under attack. What Holm describes certainly sounds like one of the Ascetic's assassins – if so, that's one less you'll need to deal with later. Are they prepared, you ask, to face another attack?

“I hope so,” Holm breathes, his gruff mask slipping aside to show a trace of genuine fear, “I've given the military my full authority to act as they see fit. There have already been several arrests, local troublemakers mostly, so they're taking it very seriously. As I understand it, Soren has thrown anyone who protested too loudly in the dungeons. When this is over, I'm going to have words with that one...”

[1/2]

>>47590354

You're not sure that local troublemakers are going to be the problem. So far, the Ascetic hasn't put much faith in men or rifles. His weapons of choice are abominations, men warped by sorcery and less wholesome things aside. You can offer Holm your sympathies, you tell the old man, because his town isn't the only one to have been attacked. The convoy on the way here was already hit once.

“And the brat hasn't run away home yet?” Holm raises an eyebrow, “Huh, maybe the boy's got more steel in him than I thought.”

Well, you'd like to keep him from getting any more steel in him. That's why you sent for some reinforcements, extra Wanderers, to bolster the defences here. With a little luck, they'll arrive in time.

“Hmm...” Holm thinks things over, calculating rough times and distances, “They should arrive soon, provided they weren't held up along the way. I'd check with Soren, over at the guardhouse. He'll have a record of all arrivals.”

You might just do that. Before you leave, you ask about his son. Is Sunao about?

“I sent him away,” the old priest explains, “Far away, to Garuna. Do you really think I want him here, now?”

You've got to admit, he might have a point there. The Dragon's Head isn't a safe place to be right now, and the pampered boy wouldn't have much to offer the defence. This way, you've got one less thing to worry about. As Holm returns to his aggressive pacing, you start to plan out your next move.

>Visit Soren at the guardhouse
>Wait at the temple until the Emperor arrives
>Ask a few more questions... (Write in)
>Other

>>47590404
>Visit Soren at the guardhouse

>>47590404
>Ask a few more questions... (Write in)
Describe Ascetic, ask if he's se anyone like that in town.
>>Visit Soren at the guardhouse

>>47590404
>Visit Soren at the guardhouse
Take care of yourself, Holm. The Ascetic doesn't take too kindly to gods, either.

>>47590404
>>Visit Soren at the guardhouse

>>47590404
>Visit Soren at the guardhouse
I dunno, that man with hatchet doesn't seem like a berserker. Tools they may be to Ascetic he wouldn't waste them on a random group of soldiers.

Or maybe he would use one to stir up unrest. We saw how he was able to push people over the edge to rebel when he took the Stone of the Southwest.

Keep a nose out for sorcery and Veragi's dagger close.

Getting Holm's attention, you give him the best descripton of the Ascetic you can. Tall, well-built and pale. Hairless, with a singularly cruel cast to his features. The sort of person who makes an impression, you finish, Holm would know if he'd seen him.

“I don't recall seeing anyone fitting that description,” Holm replies, without breaking stride, “But then, I've been busy here. Preparing to entertain guests.”

You'll take the description to Soren as well, then. Before leaving, you warn Holm to take care of himself – as much as he opposes the Emperor, the Ascetic is no friend to the gods either.

“Your concern is touching,” Holm grunts, “But-”

Holm, you snap, take this seriously. This bastard has killed enough priests already.

The old priest takes a long time to respond to that, scraping together every scrap of politeness he can manage. “I understand,” he tells you eventually, in a surprisingly soft voice, “But I don't think I'm his target. If anyone is going to be in his sights, it will be you, Ira. You're the one who should be careful.”

His concern, you reply with a faint smile, is touching.

“Fine then, go get yourself killed,” Holm flaps an angry hand at you, “Just do it outside, I don't want you making a mess in here. Go on, get out of here!”

With his forced anger ringing in your ears, you leave the temple behind and head out to the guardhouse. You don't recall meeting this Soren, but he seems to be taking things seriously enough. Even so, you find your hand constantly slipping down to touch Veragi's dagger as you walk. It reassures you, knowing the ancient weapon is close at hand. If it can cut through magic as the stories say, it will be a valuable weapon against the Ascetic.

Maybe you can cut his bastard head off with it. That would be a perk.

[1/2]

>>47590613

Soren, when you meet him at the guardhouse, looks ground down by fatigue and stress. His face is lined, and his eyes have the glassy look of someone propped up by alchemical stimulants. Despite all that, the features peeking out from behind that aged mask are almost boyish, those of a young man. Like so many others you've seen, he's too young to be put through this. Speaking of “too young”, you're surprised to see a pair of familiar faces sitting around the table with the officer. Koa and Soma, both looking as tired as Soren.

“Lieutenant Soren, at your service,” the officer says quietly, offering you his hand, “I'm in charge of security here, for the time being at least. You're... Ira Furyo, correct? Your colleagues mentioned you when they arrived.”

Hopefully, you say with an attempt at a smile, they only mentioned the good parts.

“Frankly, I'll take any help I can get,” Soren admits, “You're not trying to kill me or the Emperor, so that's a damn good start. I suppose I might as well pretend to be civilised – can I offer you some tea, or would you rather get straight down to business?”

Business first, you tell him, tea later.

“Very well,” Soren shrugs a little, “What did you want to know?”

>I heard there was an incident earlier
>What kind of precautions have you been taking?
>The Emperor may need to requisition some of your men
>Excuse me, I need to speak with my colleagues
>Other

>>47590692
>>I heard there was an incident earlier
>May I see the body?
>What kind of precautions have you been taking?
>The Emperor may need to requisition some of your men. The convoy was attacked, magic was involved.

>>47590692
>>I heard there was an incident earlier
>>What kind of precautions have you been taking?
>>The Emperor may need to requisition some of your men. Later though, when he is leaving. It may leave you a bit understaffed but since the heat is on the Emperor Dragon's Head should be okay.

>>47590692
>>I heard there was an incident earlier. Explain what happened. Do you still have the body?
>>What kind of precautions have you been taking?
>>The Emperor may need to requisition some of your men
>>Excuse me, I need to speak with my colleagues
Explain the Ascetic situation in full detail to them.

>>47590692
>What kind of precautions have you been taking?
>>I heard there was an incident earlier
>May I see the body?

>>47590692
You know I'm surprised Tawn didn't jump up to defend the Emperor.

>>47590817
he's not fit for combat anymore

>>47590847
Could still shoot a pistol, but I suppose you're right.

Also I'm beginning to think Howa and Ira are the only full fledged Wanderers at the Temple considering we got apprentices, much as I like both of them, for reinforcements.

You spoke with Holm, you begin, and he said there had been an incident earlier. Can he tell you a little more about that?

“I'd be happy to, but I'm warning you – not much of it makes much sense. At least, I don't understand it. I'm just a soldier, I don't know about... much,” Soren laughs bitterly, “It happened, I'd say... a few hours before your convoy arrived. A man brandishing a weapon approached a group of soldiers at their post. They told him to stop, and he didn't. So, they stopped him... eventually.”

Eventually.

“It took five shots to bring him down. Four of those were to the torso. Until today, I'd never heard of a man surviving more than two shots to the chest,” Soren taps his chest twice for emphasis, “He only went down when a lucky shot took off the top of his head.”

Silence falls over the room as you process this, thinking it over. Is the body still here, you ask, can you see it?

“We... burned it,” Soren explains, a faint apology in his voice, “My original orders were to keep it here, to wait for a proper examination, but... it wasn't possible. It was disturbing the men, keeping that thing here. I know how this is going to sound, I know this paints me as a fool, but none of us could stand to be around it. Even with half the head gone, we couldn't quite believe he was dead. So... I had it destroyed. That said, I had it looked at, so I can give you a little information on it.”

Fighting back the urge to curse – that body might have been useful evidence – you nod. What did he learn from it?

“He was a muscular guy, and pretty much his whole body was painted. Something about those patterns was hard to look at, like your eyes slid right off him,” Soren shrugs a little, as if he doesn't quite believe what he tells you, “One of my men, he suggested that it was those patterns putting us all on edge. Might be, he was onto something.”

[1/2]

>>47590989
Hmm so Ascetic did use one of his assassins. Maybe these soldiers had the right idea burning the body, it sounds like it was giving off something. Like a sorcery suicide bomber.

How do I keep missing half the threads dammit

>>47591030
He's started with 12 and 5 are dealt with, right? Only 7 left, and that might be less if the turned berserkers managed to kill one.

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>>47590989

Was there anything else?

“Yeah, I had a doctor look him over. Thing is, the doctor was sure about one thing – he should have died after the second shot. Just... he didn't,” Soren shivers, “I'm a simple man, I don't want to know what kind of force could keep a man alive. Still, it's given us all a damn good reason to be cautious.”

And rightfully so, you agree, what precautions have they been taking?

“For one, no masks,” Soren taps a finger to his forehead, “I don't care how sacred they are, those things are a security risk. As long as the Emperor is here, anyone wearing one of those damn things gets thrown in a cell. That got a few people riled up, but I don't care about making enemies – my job is to keep the Emperor, and as many of my men as possible, alive.”

Speaking of his men, there's a chance that the Emperor might need to requisition some of them. The convoy was attacked on the way here, and there were losses. That said, you won't be taking them until the convoy is leaving – he's short staffed as it is.

“He's welcome to take as many as he wants,” Soren shrugs, “I'll join them, if the Emperor wishes. As I said, my job is to keep him safe. I'll do whatever it takes.”

His devotion is admirable, even if Sho hasn't quite – in your private opinion – earned such service. Thanking Soren for his help, you excuse yourself to speak with Soma and Koa. It's good to see them, you begin, even if you were hoping for... a few more.

“Oh, we didn't come alone,” Koa explains hastily, “There were five of us, but the others are out searching the town. Looking for trouble, I mean.” He laughs a little, trying to make light of the situation.

“Jin, Oba, and Paracelius,” Soma adds quietly, “They came as well.”

Paracelius, you think, makes you look like a young man. Jin and Oba, on the other hand, make you look very old indeed. Not exactly the cream of the crop.

[2/3]

>>47591126
we should probably start work on some talismens with baph's symbol on them to be given to our better allies and our fellow wanderers when the time comes. Spreading them out to much invites the bastard to picking them off one by one.

>>47591177
Basically we should give any of our allies that use magic a Sigil. Which might only be Paracelius.

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>>47591126

“If you don't mind me saying,” Soma adds, “There was some relucance. The Mentor called for volunteers, but there weren't many. Truth be told, only a few of us were willing to put our lives on the line for the Emperor. Jin and Oba are, I think, just trying to make names for themselves. Paracelius, on the other hand... he said he wanted to visit the Dragon's Head one last time.”

“Hey, but it's better than nothing!” Koa insists, “I mean, Paracelius is a damn good doctor. If I got shot or stabbed, he's the guy I'd want to have close by. I've seen what Oba can do with a sword, as well – he's a good fighter. Jin, though...”

You know Jin, you tell Koa, the man is a bloodhound. If there's anything wrong in the Dragon's Head, he'll be the one to sniff it out.

“There you go then,” Koa says with a satisfied nod, “A good man to have with us.”

Moving on, you take the pair aside and quietly tell them the entire situation – everything you know about the Ascetic and his seven remaining assassins. They listen with attentive eyes and open ears, considering each and every word you say. When you're finished, Soma is the first to speak up.

“Ira, Sir, I want to discuss something with you,” she asks, “Alone, if possible.”

“I'll get us some tea,” Koa says, quickly leaving the pair of you alone. When he's gone, you glance back to Soma. She says nothing, seemingly waiting for you to make the first move.

>I thought Tawn might be here
>Go on then, we're alone. Speak up
>Why did you come here?
>Other

>>47591207
"Thank you for coming out by the way."
>Go on then, we're alone. Speak up

>>47591207
>>I thought Tawn might be here
>>Go on then, we're alone. Speak up

>>47591207
>I thought Tawn might be here
>Go on then, we're alone. Speak up

>>47591204
It's not just the magic nulling. The murmuring also causes unease and that unhinging effect if I recall. In a tense battle, you do not want your guns to waiver or for them to get antsy. It will be bad enough with the berserkers, we do not want to compound it.

>>47591336
It's not as bad as Murmur's was back in Viole. The description says a 'barely audible song' that just disrupts magic. It didn't seem to affect our allies prowess during the ambush the other day. They probably won't even hear it in a fight.

You'd just like to thank her, you begin, for coming out here. That said, you're a little surprised to see her here without her other half – you thought Tawn might have come out.

“My other...” Soma hesitates, “Yes, I see. Well, he wanted to come, but the Mentor convinced him it was a bad idea. Too much of a risk. Still, you know Tawn – he doesn't like being helpless, or useless. He's been put in charge of organising security in the Nameless Temple, in preparation for the Emperor's visit. That seemed to be keeping him happy enough. Even so, though, he asked me to come here, to keep an eye on things here.”

And you're glad to have her here, you tell her, so what did she want to talk to you about?

“I don't know anything about the Ascetic as a man, but I might be able to tell you a little about his methods,” Soma explains, “His tactics. The Seer had his ways, and I'm assuming he passed those down to his apprentice. Simply put – divide and conquer. I would expect the Ascetic to attack us from different angles, to try and split our strength and tire us out. While his feints are keeping our forces busy elsewhere, he'll move in and hit his target.”

Just like the capital, you think, when he drew Hirohito's forces away before striking.

“What I'm saying is...” Soma falters for a moment, “He's going to try to force us into a bad situation. If we split up, we risk losing the Emperor. If we stay together, I can't guess how many other lives might be lost.”

And then you picture it – the remaining assassins all striking at once, all across the Dragon's Head, tearing into soldier and civilian alike. The town could burn around you while you protected the Emperor, or the Ascetic could take Sho's head while you try to save as many people as possible.

Bastard.

“I know,” Soma nods bitterly, “If it comes to it...”

>The Emperor is more important
>I can't put one life above many
>I won't choose. I'll find a way of protecting everyone
>Other

>>47591414
>I won't choose. I'll find a way of protecting everyone
The bastard is going to try and divide us one way or another. Thats already happening. We need a fortified front or event to get everyone together in one place for protection and surveillance.

If possible, a speech in a open enough area that we can see where trouble is coming. Enough to make him antsy, but also near say the temple so the people could head inside for shelter.

>>47591414
>>I won't choose. I'll find a way of protecting everyone
We lose the Emperor the chaos after will kill many and all the progress we've made towards peace will be lost. But I do not and will not consider the people here expendable. We can beat Ascetic, we just need to be smart about it.

>>47591414
>I won't choose. I'll find a way of protecting everyone
[Seigi no mikata intensifies]

>>47591414
>>I won't choose. I'll find a way of protecting everyone

>>47591414
If he does go all in we can Song of Discord and Lapis Command again. Same tricks and he'll wise up, but if he loses all his resources then it's worth it.

>>47591414
Stage a fallback point in case of attack. For Emperor and civilian both. Obviously keep the two groups separate but preferably in the same building or area.

>>47591554
Not just that, but we can actually set up our position for once. This is no longer us being the one falling for his trap, but him coming to us. Deny him targets, force him to come to the only spot where people are, and when he shows up, have the support staff get the others into the temple or shelter and spring the multiple traps on him.

His anti gun magic won't work under murmur, so we can have gunners fire from safety, taking pot shots. The doctor can attend wounded, Sho can be on trying to keep the people moving orderly, while the rear guard and ourselves focus down the remaining berserkers and ascetic.

>>47591414
Do the berserkers radiate magic? Could we use magic detection to find them?

>>47591648

>They have a small magical presence, but it might be difficult to detect here, with Lapis' presence drowning them out. When they go "active", they're much easier to spot. However, you don't really need magic detection to track them down by that point. Just follow the screams!
>So, it would be possible to track them down, but it wouldn't be an automatic success.

>>47591648
They do, but I'm pretty sure Berserkers can't blend in with a populace I think...

You won't chose, you reply flatly.

“What?” Soma almost laughs in disbelief, until she sees the grave look on your face, “You've got to understand that-”

You won't choose who to save or who to abandon, you continue, you'll find some way of protecting everyone. If you let the Emperor die, the land will fall into chaos – chaos that will swallow many more lives than the Ascetic could hope to kill. On the other hand, you refuse to write off the people here as expendable. You can beat the Ascetic without resorting to such depths – you just need to be smart about it.

Soma takes in your words silently, finally letting out a hollow laugh as she shakes her head. “You're not going to back down on this, are you?”

Not at all, you assure her.

“Look, all I'm saying is, you've got three groups here – the Emperor, the people here, and yourself. Chances are, you can only keep two of those three safe,” Soma looks you dead in the eye, “If you're prepared to take that risk...”

You're always taking a risk, you tell her with a shrug, and now is no exception. The first thing you need to do is set up a fallback point, somewhere to keep the people safe and secure if the Ascetic attacks. That's one advantage you do have – if he wants to challenge you, he's going to have to do it on your terms. If you gather everyone to the temple, to anywhere you can keep an eye on them, the Ascetic won't have anyone to use against you. He'd need to come right at you, at the majority of your forces. He might be tough, but a line of massed rifles would ruin his day just the same.

“I think it could work,” Soma admits, “As long as we keep these assassins at a distance. I don't want to imagine what they could do to a crowd of defenceless civilians...”

[1/2]

>>47591775

The conversation is interrupted by Koa's return. He's not alone, either – the young apprentice is flanked by a pair of slightly older men. Oba and Jin could be apprentices themselves, they're that young, but they both have an air of confidence about them that marks them as fully trained Wanderers. As Koa hands across a clay mug, you examine the new arrivals.

Oba is a large man with sleepy eyes and a shaven head. Pierced in a way that reminds you of the deserters you saw on Black Rock, you feel a twinge of instinctive dislike for the man. Still, you know him to be a trustworthy sort – honest and hard working, no matter how lazy he might appear. Good with a sword as well, and he is never without a blade at his hip. If it comes to fighting, he'll be an asset worth having around.

Jin, on the other hand, always reminded you a little of a corpse. His expression is very still, his skin pale and clammy. Although he is brutally intelligent, Jin has a reputation for following his gut instinct above all else – to some success, admittedly.

“I heard that the Emperor is with Holm now,” Koa begins, drawing your attention back to him, “With, I guess, a dozen soldiers at least. Pretty safe, I'd say. So, if there were any preparations you were wanting to make...”

“Ira,” Jin speaks up, his voice barely above a whisper, “I don't much like it here. I had a feeling, when I was out patrolling. Nothing I can put a name to yet, but it's definitely something.”

“Definitely bullshit is what it is,” Oba argues, his voice typically good-natured, “We're best of focussing on what we CAN see.”

“What I'm saying is,” Jin sighs, “What do you want us to do?”

>Tell me about that feeling of yours, Jin
>Oba, I want you close to the Emperor
>Everyone, I want you to gather the people at the temple. Get as many people as you can
>I'm going to watch over the Emperor. You take care of things here
>Other

>>47591900
>Tell me about that feeling of yours, Jin
>Everyone, I want you to gather the people at the temple. Get as many people as you can

>>47591900
>>Tell me about that feeling of yours, Jin
>Everyone, I want you to gather the people at the temple. Get as many people as you can

>>47591900
>>Tell me about that feeling of yours, Jin
>>Everyone, I want you to gather the people at the temple. Get as many people as you can
Not liking the fact the old man hasn't returned. Still, we need to prep things up. If the feeling is the berserkers, we could use a signal to suddenly activate Murmur and catch them before they move into the temple.

>>47591900
>Tell me about that feeling of yours, Jin
>Everyone, I want you to gather the people at the temple. Get as many people as you can.
Let's see what this feeling is before assigning people. Sho should be safe enough right now.

>>47591900
> >Tell me about that feeling of yours, Jin.

I feel like bringing everyone together is the right choice, but it will also give non abominable assassin's the chance to slup in. SI

> Oba, I want you co-ordination the civilians, get the priests to help. Make sure we know where everyone is at all times.

>>47591900
>Tell me about that feeling of yours, Jin
>Oba, I want you close to the Emperor
>I'm going to go work with the Emperor's people on preparing a gathering in the temple
>Only a single entrance should be open, and I will stand guard near it looking for the Ascetic's men.
>Koa, make copies of that symbol I gave you at Voile and give out to anyone who can use magic.

>>47592020
>>47591900
Also let's get them some talismans in case we need to use Murmur.

>>47591900
We should probably coordinate with Soren on all of this.

Jin, you begin, what can he tell you about that feeling of his?

The slender, cadaverous man takes a long time to answer that, shifting his weight from one foot to the other as he considers his words. He always did take care with his answers, Jin. “I can't be exactly sure,” he admits, “I passed a house by, when I was taking a walk. It didn't sit quite right with me.”

“And that's it,” Oba groans, “A house, he said. It doesn't feel right, he said. Did he do anything about it? No he did not. Like I said – it's a load of bullshit.”

“That's not quite right,” Jin insists, “I believe it's worth investigating.”

“Investigating WHAT?” his companion snaps, some of that good humour falling away, “Some poor bastard's house? It's a waste. Of. Time.”

Stop it, you bark, both of them. As the pair fall into a sullen silence, you call Soren over. It's time to get organised, you announce, so you want everyone to listen closely. First of all – be prepared to adapt to the situation. Things might not go to plan.

“Do they ever?” Koa asks softly. You decide to ignore that comment.

Oba, you say quietly, you want him working with the priests to start bringing the civilians together. When he's finished there, he should get back to the Emperor's side as soon as he can. Koa, you add, you need him to make a few extra copies of Baphomet's sigil – one for everyone here. Soren, is there somewhere in town that can be defended? Somewhere with good, strong walls and only a single entrance?

[1/2]

>>47592161

“The temple is your best bet,” the officer offers, “And it's big enough to hold most of the people here.”

Good, great. Everyone else, you finish, focus on rounding up the civilians. You want them kept safe. Then, a thought occurs to you. Where, you ask the group, has Paracelius gone?

“We were walking together,” Jin explains, “He stopped to rest for a while... at a tavern.”

That old bastard...

“And what about you, Ira?” Soma asks, before you can start cursing properly, “What are you going to do?”

>Jin, show me that house you were talking about
>I'll help round up the civilians
>I'm going to stick close to the Emperor
>Other

>>47592172
>Jin, show me that house you were talking about

>>47592172
>Jin, show me that house you were talking about
Keep a sharp eye out everyone.

>>47592172
>>Jin, show me that house you were talking about
Nip the problem in the butt before it gets out of hand. If it's a trap, it's one we forcefully spring open, and also one we can spring right back.

>>47592172
>Jin, show me that house you were talking about

>>47592172
>I'm going to stick close to the Emperor

Didn't we JUST decide it was a bad idea to split up? Especially since we're the only anti-sorcery dude?

Get Oba and Jin to check out that house and grab Perry while we lock down the fort.

>>47592369
Anti sorcery might be needed there too. Emperor has a lot of people with him right now and we can sense if Ascetic starts using sorcery.

Check out the house quick, grab Perry, and lock things down.

You've got a house to look at, you decide. Jin, you add, can he show you the way?

“It would be my pleasure,” he murmurs to you, nodding gratefully to Koa as the apprentice passes over a slip of paper, Baphomet's sigil inked into it. “If it is a trap,” Jin adds, “It's better to find that out now, while we've not got a situation on our hands.”

“You and your damn feelings,” Oba grunts, grabbing Jin by the upper arm, “Fine. Follow your gut, whatever. Just be careful, okay?”

“I'm always careful,” Jin says softly, removing Oba's hand from his arm with delicate care. Their hands touch for a few seconds more, before they finally part. An awkward silence descends upon the room.

Well, you announce with forced cheer, you want everyone to keep their eyes open. No letting their guard down, no matter what. As the group agrees, their reactions wildly varying in enthusiasm, you gesture for Jin to lead on. He does so without a word, leaving the guardhouse with a typically graceful step. Out in the streets, he takes a long breath, seemingly tasting the tense air. Watching him, you almost expect to see a serpent tongue flicking out from that slash of a mouth.

“This way,” Jin says eventually, “I'd like to stop at that tavern. I imagine Paracelius has passed out by now, but I'd like to make sure. He's been rather prone to wandering lately, if you excuse the pun. He'll empty a bottle of strong wine and get all kinds of grand ideas about exploring. It's not a detour, in either case – it's on the way.”

As Jin leads the way, you find yourself cursing Paracelius for a fool. Maybe he came here with the best intentions, but casting aside his duty to go drinking? He should know better, especially at his age. He might be retired – more or less – but that's no excuse for such sloppy behaviour.

When you find him, you're going to give him a piece of your mind.

[1/2]

>>47592457
Clearly, Jin is the traitor and the house an excuse

>>47592457
..shit, we got the suicide squad of wanderers. A gay couple and a old man about to retire.

>>47592457

“The old geezer?” the bartender asks, “He left a while ago. Said there was something he wanted to take care of. I thought, you know, he was just going to take a piss. When he never came back...”

“I see,” Jin hisses, his thin brows dipping in a low frown, “Thank you, anyway. Say...”

Before Jin can get into a full conversation with the bartender, you thank him for his time and drag your fellow Wanderer out into the streets. So, you prompt, what next?

“If I had to guess,” Jin pauses, tilting his head to the side, “I'd say Paracelius went back to check out the house I mentioned. He seemed curious about it as well. Shall we head over there?” Without waiting for an answer, he strolls off down the street. He doesn't stop or say a single word until he reaches a perfectly anonymous building – one with the door standing ever so slightly ajar. “Well,” Jin says at last, “That was closed when I was here last.”

Drawing your dagger and your pistol – too close for sword work – you push the door open and step inside. Inside, the house smells... bad. Musty, with a damp edge to the air that you don't much care for. You can hear something, but you couldn't say exactly what it was – a scraping perhaps, like stone dragging against stone.

It's dark, and even the light from your small lantern doesn't do much to push back the gloom. As Jin stamps his boot against the floor, you hiss out a curse. Quiet down, you spit at him, is he trying to cause as much noise as possible?

“There's a floor below,” Jin explains, “Maybe more than one. Only... I was under the impression that this town was built above a network of tunnels.”

Devotional tunnels, you tell him, ancient things really. From what you know, they run all over the place, leading back to...

To the temple.

>Let's check it out
>Jin, go back and alert the others
>Let's get out of here, quickly
>Other

>>47592635
A shame we didn't take a flare gun to warn of danger

>>47592635
>Jin, go back and alert the others
>While we check the tunnels

Ready the cult revolver. We might not have time to reload.

>>47592635
>>Jin, go back and alert the others
>Im going to check this out and be back up as soon as possible

>>47592635
>Let's get out of here, quickly
>Jin, go back and alert the others

>>47592691
This

>>47592691
>>47592635
This.

>>47592635
>>Jin, go back and alert the others
Bloody hell, bastard just won't stop being an absolute asshole.
Use the magic link if it'd be useful here, the great strides, and if Jin has speed magic, use it on us!

Jin, you say quietly, go back and alert the others. If your guess is right, and this house has some kind of access to the devotional tunnels, then the Ascetic has a pathway right into the temple. It doesn't matter how many guards you put on the door, if ends up coming up through the basement.

“Yes, they need to know,” Jin agrees, “Watch yourself, Ira. As glad as I am to know that my guess was correct, I fear this might be gravely dangerous.”

Before you have a chance to say anything, a rumble shakes the house. No, it shakes the whole settlement – a deep, rumble as though the ground beneath your feet has convulsed. Dangerous, you repeat bitterly, really? As that rumble fades, you hear another sound – the thin crackling of distant rifles. Jin's eyes widen – genuine fear creeping into them – and he is, finally, lost for words.

“That was an explosion. An attack,” he manages to say, “This must be a distraction. While the soldiers are busy with the wolves at the door, their master will be creeping up to slit their throats.”

All the more reason, you snap, for him to get the word out. Punching him on the shoulder – hard – you urge him into motion. As Jin finally makes his move, you prepare to descend. Swapping your old pistol for the cult revolver as you go – you don't want to be caught out with an empty gun – you reach the basement. Down here, the air is ever more dank, thick with moisture and old decay. In the centre of the basement, a hole has been smashed in the stone floor. Peering down, you see water flowing lazily along. You could drop down... but you won't be able to climb back up. Not without magic, at least.

Grimacing, you check yourself and your gear one last time, and then you drop down into the tunnels. The water that is there to greet you is cold – very cold, and very dirty. As you hold your breath, the sound of distant, splashing footsteps reaches you.

[1/2]

So, while not a close guarded secret or something, the tunnels aren't something THAT known to the populace right?

>>47593084

>They're a piece of history. Someone could learn about them, but it would require a little research. Otherwise, you could live above them your whole life without knowing about them.

>>47593127
[shadowruns internally]

File: The Ascetic.jpg (103 KB, 500x707)

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>>47593018

The tunnels that you rush down seem to make no logical sense. They twist and turn at random, wild angles leading you in an aimless chase after an elusive enemy. Some sadistic artifice of their design confuses the echoing footsteps, so that they seem to come from behind you and ahead of you at once. All you can do is press on, keep moving forwards, and hope that you'll stumble across your target. Slowly, as the sound of his easy, measured steps grows louder, you know that you're getting closer.

Then, at long last, you spot him. In these dark tunnels, his pale flesh seems like a beacon. Stripped bare to the chest, he flaunts the perfection of his body. As you point the revolver at his back, he stops walking and turns to face you.

“A man should respect his weapons,” the Ascetic says softly, “That's not yours, is it? Or... perhaps you like using the tools of your enemy?”

This, you retort, is a gift from a friend.

“Ah, a friend!” the sorcerer laughs softly, “Then cherish it well, because sentimental value is all that it has. Go ahead, stranger – take a shot at me, if you so please. Unless... you want to talk? I can be quite agreeable, if you show... the proper deference. You see, I think you have something I want. Hand it over, and then walk away. You can still see tomorrow's sunrise.”

And what, you ask as you keep the revolver pointed at him, does he want?

“That lens you possess. I can sense it, you see – you've touched it, and it's left its mark on you. Maybe you don't have it on you right now... that's fine,” he smiles, as if to show how reasonable he is, “I can take it whenever I like. Just walk away now, and let me complete my mission.”

>Why do you want that lens?
>Fine. I'll walk away
>I can't let you do that. Let's fight like honourable men
>Take the shot
>Other

>>47593214
>Why do you want that lens?
>Where are you really?

>>47593214
>>Take the shot
take more than one

>>47593214
Ok so, lets get this straight. I'm not the only one who realizes that we can't really take this guy in a straight up fight right? He ain't afraid of shit and will avoid the dagger once we get one hit in and he can crumple us up into a Ira shaped ball with one solid opening.

Whats the plan here?

I'm thinking we cheese much as possible with magic but what do we start with?

>>47593214
>Take the shot
Just to see if it works.

If he's an illusion or the anti gun sorcery is up.
"Can't blame me for trying.

>Why do you want that lens?

Also if he is an illusion keep moving. We can't have him delay us if he isn't here.

>>47593293
I think we either need to go above ground so the gang can help us taking him down, or turtle it up untill they rout his 'serkers.

>>47593293
We hit him with the dagger and get the note up he's fucked.

>>47593214
>Why do you want that lens?
Let him talk. Let his egomania get to him. When he pushes you to shoot him, use murmur and fire. If he tries to run away? Teleport behind him and slash his hamstrings with the dagger. Martial arts and most forms of combat use the legs, and if he can't use sorcery to repair the damage.. and if the dagger cuts his leg's enchantments, then we just crippled him.

>>47593351
He is still a muscle wizard. That won't change.

>>47593293
Song of Discord then Skin of Porcelain.
The arrogant fucker is so going to no-sell our shots and counterattack. Let's give him half his blow back.
Also don't shoot more than once. When he dodges our shot and closes in, then we fire the rest point blank into his stupid face.

Remember we also have Lapis's command if we want to force him to stop moving for a round for a vital strike if we need to.

Might want to save it if he brings reinforcements though.

And why, you ask, does he want the lens? Is he seeking out the Truth they lead to as well?

“I don't give a damn about whatever knowledge they offer,” the Ascetic replies with a shrug, “History can burn, as far as I'm concerned – it holds no sway over me. No, I want it for a more simple reason – I seek the Pharos itself... and the man hiding there. For you see, my master – in his infinite wisdom – has fled to the one place where he believes you cannot follow. Only those who have gazed through the three lenses can find the Pharos.”

Say he found the Seer, you continue, then what?

“Then I kill him. I crush the life from him body,” your enemy shrugs, “It is the nature of sorcery. We are an ambitious sort, and that rarely leads to lasting cooperation. He was a fool if thought he could create me without ever facing the consequences. Even if I didn't have... my own reasons for wanting him dead, he simply doesn't deserve to live. He is weak, and the coming world has no place for weakness.”

The longer he talks, you think, the better. Once his diversion has been thrown back, your allies can descend into the tunnels and back you up. So, you'll play his games – you'll give him the chance to rant, to rave, and to flaunt his ego. Then, when the odds are tipped in your favour, you'll kill him.

The coming world, you ask, what kind of place is that going to be?

“A world of strength,” the Ascetic smiles, “You heard what future the Seer desired, and you know the truth of it – a land of warlords, of predators. A land with no rules or restrictions, save for those that the strong impose upon the weak. I, of course, would be the lord of such a land. Who could challenge me? You, who has never tasted divinity? Those two old fools, cowering away in their tombs?”

That's it. Stalling for time is one thing, but you've had enough of him.

[1/2]

>>47593545
I guess that's one way to have us go to Pharos later.

Rolled 35 (1d100)

>>47593545

Letting out a sharp whistle, you call upon Murmur's maddening power and send his wailing song echoing out into the tunnel. As the Ascetic stumbles slightly, barely shifting his weight, you squeeze the revolver's trigger. In this tight space, the sound of the gun is painfully loud. It hammers your ears, leaving them ringing in a grim imitation of Murmur's voice. Flying straight and true, the bullet strikes the Ascetic in the breast, flattening on contact with his flawless skin and skittering away into the darkness.

“So that was you!” he declares, a dreadful humour in his voice, “I've never encountered a power like that before. No wonder that my beasts failed me – you twisted their will, didn't you? I hope that's not your only weapon, it would be so boring if that was the only trick up your sleeve.” As he gloats, the Ascetic strides closer and closer to you. Then, kicking off the ground with terrible haste, he launches himself towards you.

>Please roll 1D100, aiming to beat 80/90/100. I'll take the highest of the first three, and you can use any spell card you wish.
>Also, I'll roll 1D100 for the Ascetic, aiming to beat 50/70/90

>>47593545
Soon
>You, who has never tasted divinity?
heh, makes you look like a chump when an old man put a kink into your plan, bucko

Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>47593648
Wrath of the Gods

File: Mozgus - YOU HERETIC.jpg (141 KB, 715x590)

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Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>47593648

Rolled 57 (1d100)

>>47593648
"My powers comes from the gods too Ascetic. Let's see who comes out on top."

Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>47593648
Skin of Porcelain

Rolled 63 (1d100)

>>47593648

>>47593661
>>47593682
I don't think we can use spell cards dood

>>47593682
He missed badly anon. Don't waste it.

>>47593672
such a shame, Ira going full Mozgus would have been glorious

>>47593682
He missed. We are fine this round.

>>47593648
Probably Wrath. We won't get anything this round but the earliest we use the spell the better.

>>47593698
see>>47593648
>and you can use any spell card you wish.
Learn to read

>>47593718
true sorry anon

>>47593648
Our goal of this fight should be on crippling him and bolstering ourself. Get wrath going, get our buffs ready, surprise him with the knife and a teleport when we are built up a bit and cripple him. He is WAY too dangerous if he only needs a 50 to beat us.

Hyacinth's for the next card into play?

>>47593754
Probably not. He'd break through the vines easy. We have better defensive tools.

If he runs for it, all wounded later we should use it though.

>>47593710
I didn't know this when I rolled, did I? And changing your vote after you roll is just bad manners.

>>47593754
I'd go for As the Mountains

>>47593778
No. We've been choosing our spells based on the rolls we get since forever.

>For reference, we'll be using Wrath of the Gods this turn. That seems to have been the most popular choice.
>Writing the next post now, in either case.

>>47593778
Give Moloch posted what he needed to hit and his roll yeah you did know he missed. That means porcelain was a waste.

>>47593778
>I didn't know this when I rolled, did I?
>Also, I'll roll 1D100 for the Ascetic, aiming to beat 50/70/90

Just say you didn't read and only saw that a roll was required

>>47593754
depends on what he rolls. A strong attack could be countered with doll, then we heal with mandragora and get that boost. A flub could allow us to smack his shit with a offensive move. The dragon's order could be used to simply have him 'Stop' for a moment to make him open for attack and stop his own.

We also have teleportation as well to get behind him, the wind step to close the distance, and several abilities to hamper him. Treat him like a SMT boss and use ALL the buffs and debuffs.

>>47593848
Veragi's Teleport also nullifies an attack by Ascetic. We did it against Rosaria. So if he rolls 90+ it might be good to just get out of the way.

File: Titanos.jpg (108 KB, 743x1076)

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Rolled 79 (1d100)

As his attack begins, you reach deep within you and call out Titanos' name. His power emboldens you, filling you with divine strength. With beads of ancient, filthy water flashing through the air around you, the Ascetic lunges. He attacks without shouting, his face clear of any rage or hatred, but there is an undeniable spite powering that mighty blow. Perhaps it's the spite that all sorcerers are driven by, the same bile that fuels their path away from the gods.

Whatever it is, it isn't good enough. Not this time, at least.

The Ascetic's fist crashes down, splintering the drowned stone where you had been standing. Had your desperate lunge not taken you away from him, your skull would have been crushed, smashed apart and scattered across this bleak tunnel. Even so, your dodge left little opportunity for a counter attack. The first pass – the first of what could be many - concludes with no clear victor. As you rise and turn to face him, you call out to him.

The gods gave you their power, you taunt, you didn't need to steal it.

“I'm no thief,” the Ascetic retorts, “A conquering army is not made up of thieves, is it? No, the spoils of war are a noble thing – the rightful reward of the strong.”

Oh, you reply, so he's a pitiful looter then?

“Mongrel dog,” he shoots back, “I'll devour your corpse when I'm finished with you.”

He doesn't give you the time to think up with a comeback. Crouching low, he charges towards you.

>Please roll 1D100, aiming to beat 80/90/100. I'll take the highest of the first three, and you can use any spell card you wish. This roll will be at +10
>Also, I'll roll 1D100 for the Ascetic, aiming to beat 50/70/90

>>47593887
So the general idea for our battle plan is this;
He rolls bad, we roll good= attack buff
He rolls good, we roll good= teleport
He rolls good, we roll bad=doll's skin.
Teleport would work best with a high roll, so that takes priority.

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>47593935

Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>47593935
Skin or porcelain

Rolled 43 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>47593935
rolling then.

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>47593935
use also As the Mountains

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>47593935

>>47593950
>>47593965
>>47593968
This is how we die

>>47593968
>>47593965
>>47593950
Yeah, attack roll flubbed. Skin of porcelin to counter his good roll.

dem rolls, holy fuck it's a bad day for Ira

OK
As the Mountains or Skin of Porcelain?

One is a buff that will stay with us, but we take most of the damage and the other has us only take half and redirects the other half to him

>>47593970
Prinny, that is a d20 you bugger. The hell you pulling?

>>47594007
redirects obviously. We can use Hyacinth's spell next turn for buff and heal, or set up dead man's respite maybe.

>>47594009
I think he's trolling this quest.

>>47594007
Skin of porcelain. For this fight, we really shouldn't be buffing when we are taking a nasty hit.

I think we should tank one blow, and hit him with Zulathoon to get our breath/health back

>>47594041
>Trying to mindrape a sorcerer
Let's not

>>47594009
lack of sleep is having its effects on me
sorry

>>47594035
no I'm not
sorry if you got that impression

>>47594035
Dead man's respite is only good if are under 80 HP AND we've already used Mandy's counterattack heal.

Both of those might happen in this fight though.

>>47594065
Not the primary effect where Ira dive into the memory. the one where he remember the worst shit he'd done

>>47594083
Wouldn't work on a dedicated sociopath like the Ascetic.

>>47594065
I'm not saying do it right now, but simply coming in contact we can trap the enemy in their worst nightmare.

The mind probe aspect is different.

>I'd tentatively say we're going with Skin of Porcelain this time.
>Writing the next post now.

File: Compliments to the chef.webm (1.07 MB, 1080x604)

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>>47594093

File: Doll.jpg (875 KB, 900x990)

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Rolled 82 (1d100)

There's nothing magical about the way the Ascetic moves, save for the magic woven into his cursed bones. If there had been, Murmur's maddening drone would have shut it down. This is just the abnormal speed of a body honed to absolute perfection, a weapon forged by a master craftsman. Just as Veragi's dagger is a weapon of the gods, so is the Ascetic a weapon against them.

As your dagger plunges down towards him, he is suddenly inside your guard. Having moved faster than your all too human eye could follow, he stands before you and swings a vicious punch – a jab with practically no wind-up at all – at your stomach. As you call upon the Doll's gentle magic, his fist strikes you like the Emperor's beloved train.

>Skin of Porcelain reduces the damage by half, to 20
>Current health: 80/100

The blast, a storm of shattered porcelain, shreds your tunic. Meanwhile, the force of the punch sends you flying backwards. The world becomes muffled for a brief moment as your head dips under the water, and when you lift your aching body up, a distant voice calls your name.

“Ira?” Soma – so terribly distant – calls out, “Where are you?”

“Tell me,” the Ascetic asks, ignoring the distant voice, “How did that feel?” As he waits for your answer, the bastard nonchalantly starts to pick daggers of porcelain out of his first. Each one is tipped with a glistening ruby of blood.

You've made him bleed. You made the bastard bleed. That's a good start.

>Please roll 1D100, aiming to beat 80/90/100. I'll take the highest of the first three, and you can use any spell card you wish. This roll will be at +15
>Also, I'll roll 1D100 for the Ascetic, aiming to beat 50/70/90

Rolled 41 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>47594252
Good roll so we can teleport pls

Rolled 37 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>47594252
Dead Man's Respite

Rolled 94 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>47594252
Teleport, now. Get behind him, go for a hamstring, and lower his attack potential.

Rolled 83 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>47594252

>>47594298
Yes! And I agree Veragi's Step now to avoid his blow.

>>47594298
CLUTCH

>>47594298
>now it ends

>>47594252
Vespucci Step!

Nothing pers- nah this is pretty personal.

You have your own board now btw.

Rolled 70 (1d100)

With a mocking confidence, the Ascetic strides over to you and raises one foot, preparing to drive his heel into your skull. He's got a damn good chance of it was well – still struggling to rise from the body blow, you can't find the energy to dive away from him.

Fortunately, you don't need to.

Slashing your hand up, you call upon Maia Veragi's ancient magic and fall into the dark tunnel that opens up ahead of you. With your guts heaving and your head reeling, you stumble forwards through the darkness. It seems... slow this time. Unusually slow.

“Dramatic timing,” a sly voice tells you, “Don't worry, it's just as instant as always. Now, remember...”

A dagger in the back, you finish as you recognise Maia's voice, right?

“Got it in one,” the god confirms, “Stick with me, old man, and you'll go far.”

And then you're back in reality, standing behind the Ascetic as he slams his foot down into barren stone. If you've got one regret, it's that you can't see the shocked look on his face. Still, that's one regret you can live with. With the divine dagger blazing like midnight lightning in your hand, you slash out and draw the blade across the Seer's leg, low enough to bite deep into his hamstrings.

How does it feel, you snarl as the blood flows freely, how does that feel you bastard?

“You!” he hisses, scrabbling forwards before you can bury the blade in his spine, “Your whore goddess can't help you now, can she? That's your weakness, you old fool – how many spells do you have left in that weak mind of yours?”

Enough.

>Please roll 1D100, aiming to beat 80/90/100. I'll take the highest of the first three, and you can use any spell card you wish. This roll will be at +20
>Also, I'll roll 1D100 for the Ascetic, aiming to beat 60/80/100

>>47594298
And after we hit him, add in
"Tell me, how did THAT feel?"

I just wanna see him squirm a bit

Rolled 14 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>47594495

Rolled 57 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>47594495
"I have more than enough Ascetic."

As The mountain

Rolled 75 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>47594495
"Enough to finish you off."

Rolled 1 (1d100)

>>47594495
can't believe the bastard is rolling that good

Rolled 4 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>47594427
go cry elsewhere

>>47594495
use Gift of the Soil

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>>47594598
oh wow

>>47594590
>>47594495
As the Mountain

Ascetic rolled his lowest tier attack so we are okay, we mitigate it with 5 DR and with the +5 and this roll we make the 100 tier for us.

>>47594495
Got the good roll last time, so as the mountain. Push a bit farther. Next turn, mandragora. Then the big healing, splice it with the Dragon Order "Kneel" if he gets a crit.

>>47594590
Hoo boy, my asshole was god and clenched.

>>47594598
Thank fucking Titanos you were late nigga damn

>>47594495
>blade across the Seer's leg
huh? Even the old man got hit?

>>47594495
We need to shoot him four times rapidly to cheese out the max bonus from Wrath of the Gods. Or will it count as a single attack?

>>47594628
>god
convenient typo?

>>47594633

>Ah, crap. Needless to say, that's a typo!
>>47594644

>That would just count as a single attack, unfortunately!

>>47594664
>>47594664
>the old man is sitting quietly half a word away when suddenly he's getting his leg sliced open by a dagger that disapear a second later.
>I bet the Mentor did this

>>47594495
>Maia is so bored up north with nothing to do that she is watching the play by play of this fight and had to say some cool lines when Ira used his card.

>>47594495
You know, reading this fight is quite fun. Get to see one of the toughest foes around, and we are using everything in our power to curbstomp him while knowing full well that we don't need to feel sorry for him.

HOWS THAT WORLD OF THE STRONG TREATING YOU, BITCH?

“You arrogant shit,” the Ascetic snarls, unaware of the blatant hypocrisy in his words, “I thought to fight you as an equal, as an honourable warrior. I never thought you'd stoop to such...”

He butchers defenceless men, and crushes the life from old men. He plays with corpses and weaves them into monstrous new shapes. He makes hollow shells out of men, filling their bodies with beasts and using them as living weapons.

But no, you're the one who is fighting without honour.

As you howl out the name of noble Titanos – hopefully, Soma will hear your voice – you charge at the Ascetic and plough into him, knocking him sprawling and sending you both into the deep water. As you try to wrestle your dagger into position, the perfect position to strike, you feel the Ascetic's fist crashing into your side. Something inside you breaks, cracking as his hand hammers into you.

>Damage reduced by 5 to 35
>Current health: 55/100

Then, blind and placing your faith in every god that you've ever known – even bloodstained Kala – you thrust forwards with the dagger, feeling the bite as it hits flesh. At once, the Ascetic's attacks turn to floundering, aimless waves, and you can rise up. When he doesn't follow you up, you reach down and pull him up, out of the water. Your dagger, that exotically curved weapon of the gods, is buried deep within his throat. His eyes roll wildly, twisting around to follow you wherever you turn – a deep, vile rage burning within them.

His eyes only grow still when you grasp that dagger and saw through the rest of his neck, parting his head from his body. Then, as you slump back down to cradle your aching ribs, you hear the splash of footsteps.

“By the gods!” Soma cries, “Ira, are you...”

Fine, you grunt, just got to sleep a little.

Just a little.

>I think I'll end things here for tonight. Looks like I'll be able to run on Sunday after all, and I'll stick around to answer any questions.

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>>47594895
>his face when he realise for all is boasting he isn't as strong as an old man

>>47594925
Thanks for running Moloch. Great fight.

Damage report. On Ira and the rest of the party/Emperor/Holm/etc.

>>47594925
Can we pop a Panacea before we sleep? We could use it.

>>47594925
>even bloodstained Kala
Haha.

Speaking of her, she was watching the fight right? What did she think?

I can see Nodens chuckling when he heard him yell about honor.
>honor are for kids, old men know when and how to fight dirty. That's why they are old men and not young heroes/villains

>>47594995
Actually lets hold off on that. We are messed up with broke ribs probably but stable. Just in case someone important upstairs is bleeding out we should probably keep it in the holster for them know what I mean?

>>47594925
So, Sho is probably going to be hella impressed, and I am sure whomever is the traitor is likely at the capital, waiting. Lucky us, we have the ascetic's head to link the traitor to him if we so wish.

>>47594925
I think it'd be nice if you could give us the gods view of the fight and it's result.
Hyacinth's ought to be fun to read

>>47595038
You mean using Ascetic's Head as a physical object to use Drowning in History on it? That might actually work.

>>47594925
Don't sleep, Ira, there's still berserk assassins attacking the temple!

That being said, thanks for running, Moloch!

>>47595063
>"Everyone, get on the couch! The fight's on!"
And then the pantheon hoot and holler as they watch the big game.
>>47595076
And testing the web. Both can be done and both can help us find the lens and the traitor.

>>47595011

Mixed feelings. On one hand, her chances of getting a grand war just dropped through the floor. On the other hand, she really didn't like the Ascetic that much. At least she got a good fight out of it!

>>47594977

There were a fair few deaths, and a lot of injuries, but the Emperor was kept safe. That counts as a victory in my book!

>>47595076

That would work, actually. Good idea!

>>47594931

Such is life in the world of strength!

>>47595117
>There were a fair few deaths,
Anyone we know? Either dead or mortally wounded?

>>47595038
I'm almost a little sad that our big fight wasn't in view of a lot of people.

He probably would have took hostages though.

>>47595138
I'm not. It's fitting really. The guy was all high and mighty, acting like he would be a lord. Instead, rather than making a grand entrance, he got beaten down in the sewers, crippled, beaten without leaving a crippling injury on us, and now his body is left bloating in sewer water while his head is used as a tool to fully unravel his plans.

A fitting end to a complete bastard.

>>47595205
Good point.

>>47595135

A few bad wounds shared out among our friends, and Paracelius was killed. That's the worst of it, though

>>47595138

I'd originally imagined the fight taking place in Lapis' chamber, in front of the Emperor and the dragon himself. That said, >>47595205 makes a good point. That's about the best he deserved!

>>47595236
Our freinds have so heal spells yeah? I kinda figured the old man bought it since he went solo down here and the ascetic was nearby.

>>47594925
thanks for running Moloch

>>47595111
>>"Everyone, get on the couch! The fight's on!"
Doll and Mandragora are the quiet types that gets roped in Hyacinth's games.
Melancholia and Panoptes are the depressives one.

>>47595262

Our allies have enough healing skills and magic to keep everyone alive, at least.
And yes, Paracelius got drunk, fell into a hole in the ground and had his neck snapped. The Ascetic is, as always, an honorable warrior!

So, on another point, I'd like to thank everyone who contributed today. This thread was, I suspect, the climax of the quest. All things considered, Sleeping Gods is almost finished!

>>47595236
There's a boon in Sho seeing what a Wanderer can really do, but I think Ascetic dying in a sewer is better.

>>47595327
Yeah, for the most part the war in of itself is averted. If we have the proof we need of the traitor, we got him. When Sho finally secures peace with the gods and the temple, then the army will likely be reduced. After that, just need to go and visit the Seer, find out the truth, and deal with it.

Think we got the golden end, really.

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>>47595327
>Paracelius got drunk, fell into a hole in the ground and had his neck snapped.

>>47595400
Plus side, Gay Biggs and Wedge are alive and the old man was a few days from retirement!

>>47595397

I think we're pretty close to securing the golden end, yes!
There's just the bonus boss to deal with!

So, about Koa, will that be enough to have him pass whatever it is the Wanderers pass to get the title?

>>47595427
Seer?

>>47595461
I don't think he can cast magic yet, but otherwise he's probably pretty close.

>>47595475
Mentor

>>47595475
I consider seer that one fight that shows how you progress, get up the buffs, and THEN you fight the true boss with full HP, MP, and the like.

>>47595461

Surprisingly not. Wanderers are given their title when they've mastered the ability to wield magic. That said, Koa and the others will be regarded as heroes by pretty much everyone who hears about this.
It's a pretty harsh system, but the Mentor would say it's to keep up a standard of behaviour.

>>47595475
>>47595527

Good guesses, but incorrect!

>>47595527
Why? Not like he's done anything boss worthy.


>>47595557
The Truth? Amelia?

>>47595557
>Good guesses, but incorrect!
Pharos? The abomination from Ira's childhood?

>>47595557
>>47595590
The abomination from Ira's childhood that ATE Pharos!

>>47595557
>Good guesses, but incorrect!
Parenthood?

>>47595637

A boss that's impossible to defeat would be cheating!

>>47595590
>>47595629

But, yes, it's the abomination from Ira's past. It's about time he stopped running away from it.

>>47595660
>“Ah, but there's a catch...” the voice begins, “A price in two parts that you have to pay. Half now... and half later. Now, you're only a boy, but soon you will be a man – and then, I shall call upon you once more. Then, you must pay what you owe me...”

I always remembered that line and wondered if it would ever come up again.

>>47595660
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liW-kWFiXtQ


Song related

>>47595660
So are all 7 of Ascetic's good men accounted for?

Did Song of Discord help the fight upstairs at all?

>>47595783

Those are the last of the assassins dealt with, yes. The Ascetic threw everything he had at us this time.
Song of Discord certainly did help - it took a lot of the momentum from their attack. Without it, I can't guarantee that the defence would have been a successful one.

>>47595693

The payoff to that is something I'd thought up very early on in the quest, actually, but I couldn't think of a good time to slot it in. I'm pretty glad I waited, now.

>>47595838
What was the half Ira paid as a kid?

>>47595872
My guess is his past. So considering that Ira is getting the golden end, I would say his next part of the deal would be his future.

>>47595660
>>47595838
>Ira's past
well that will surely be intresting

also here is a song
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMLtcMdt5bI

>>47595897
>>47595872

Nothing quite as sophisticated as that, although I suppose it depends on how you look at it.
Essentially, the abomination marked him as "her" property. Now, it's time she collected on that. Of course, Ira might have other ideas!

>>47595943
Rip and tear kinds of ideas.

>>47595943
So what she wants to eat him, or try to create another half human half god abomination?

>>47595966

Hey, when you've got an idea that works, why change it?

>>47595972

The latter
And then the former

>>47595972
Welp, thats horrifying. Abomination yandere watching our adventure, seeing us grow nice and ripe with all that magic from gods to turn us either into her abomination husband or child.

>>47596004
Oh lovely. Let me guess the thing that took our spells and Howa's legs was one of her "children."

>>47596046

I hadn't thought of that connection until now, but it makes a lot of sense. It would explain why two abominations had such a similar way of operating.

Yes, I think that works pretty well!

>>47596096
Did Sho meet with Lapis already or was he just meeting with Holm when the attack happened?

>>47596004
..you know, if it weren't for the fact we acquired so many different god cards, that would be scary.
>"Ahahaha! Now that your body is fused with divine magic, you are ripe enough to be devoured by me-"
>Murmur.
>"A-ah.. yes, well maybe it won't be that easy BUT-"
>Wrath
>"Errr..."
>Wrath intensifies.
>"M-maybe I made a mistake..."
>WRATH INTENSIFIES.

>>47596136

He hasn't met with Lapis yet. This attack rudely came when he was planning on taking Miura out on a date. Really, the Ascetic has very poor timing!

>>47596141

I think perhaps Ira's old "friend" should stick to bullying children!

>>47596211
>This attack rudely came when he was planning on taking Miura out on a date
Hey that can still happen. If not here then at Nameless or Garuna. They can take a trip up to Hyacinth's shrine since we told Sho about her.

That's relaxing right?

>>47596096
Is she going to still have roughly the same form as the last time Ira saw her? Because I imagine seeing her would result in him attacking immediately.


>>47596141
Problem is since she can apparently breed and make superpowered spawn she might have backup, potentially lots of it. Especially if she picked off a few wanderer while chaos was raining.


>>47596211
he really does.


>>47596235
until he meets hyacinth.

>>47596141
I've gotta ask, how come no one else has so many god cards? Is this Ira's talent at diplomacy at work?

>>47596333
I'd say it's a mix of diplomacy, the times, and the sheer amount of risk Ira went through. Remember, we have walked out of things most people should not have and the fact so much has happened likely made the chances multiply.

>>47596333
Well these past few months we've been scrambling from one god to another as shit crops up, both minor and major gods.

Like most Wanderers wait for a Writ and there is a bunch of them to split those Writs between. We have barely had Writs in this quest. We've just been going everywhere on our whim.

>>47596333

Partly. For one thing, gods will often give their abilities to those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty. Some who just goes in, does the bare minimum and then leaves won't be rewarded nearly so well. Another factor is that Ira will typically get the hard jobs - and those are better rewarded.

>>47596244

She'll have the same form, yes. Still, such a majestic form should awe Ira long enough for her to get, oh, four or five words off.
"Please don't kill me!"

>>47596235

Well, it would be better than going into Zulathoon's tunnels for your date, but only just!

>>47596429
>going into Zulathoon's tunnels for your date,
You'll tear your eye out kid!

>>47596458

Hey, the eyepatch look really works! If Miura doesn't approve, Sho could always try his luck with Murasa.

>>47596429
If I remember right this abomination slaughtered Ira's home village, left him the sole survivor and then Howa found him half starved to death right?

>>47596429
Something tells me the spoiler won't happen and it'd be a lot more smug and condescending.


So how mad was the Ascetic before we took him out?

>>47596506

It did wipe out his village, but it did it slowly, with a famine. Ira and Howa were pretty much the only ones left when someone from the outside world found them.

>>47596510
>So how mad was the Ascetic before we took him out?

His final thoughts were more or less "That isn't fair!"
So, not mad so much as throwing a tantrum. Not a very dignified way to die.

>>47596496
Even with the eye patch I'm not sure that crack ship would work.

Oh gods, when we take Howa to Capital like we said we would Murasa is totally going to hit on Ira, even if she knows Howa is his lover for funzies.

>>47596557
So Howa was from the same village too? Huh. Guess she was either passed out or not there when the abomination made her "Deal."

>>47596603

Yes, Howa wasn't there. When everything was over, she was the one who found Ira in the shrine. He never told her what happened in there.

>>47596596

Well, on one hand Murasa does have a pretty hardcore sense of self-preservation. On the other, she likes to joke around a little. In that battle, I think humour might win out over common sense!

>>47596647
So Howa was a childhood freinds of Ira's then? It was destined in the star they'd get together then.


How worried is Mentor and Tawm?

>>47596736

They were together since childhood, yes. That's largely why Ira was so oblivious - in many ways, he saw Howa more as a sister than anything else.
Tawn is keeping busy with preparing security for the next stage of the Emperor's visit, so he didn't have too much time to worry. Shame that most of his preparations won't be needed now!
The Mentor, on the other hand, was very worried. He sent five members of the Nameless Temple out, into a dangerous situation. He wasn't so worried about Ira, though - he can take care of himself!

>>47596809
He's afraid we'd pull another sole survivor?

>>47596809
So did Soma have like 20 revolvers on her when she fought!

>>47596837
Another?

>>47596837

That's probably a more realistic fear than Ira being the one who doesn't come back. The others are a lot less experienced in this kind of violence!

>>47596901

Two revolvers, plenty of ammo, and a few homemade grenades. She likes to come prepared!

>>47596933
When bad things happen Ira usually makes it out alright, and when he was younger no one would work with him besides Howa because he was Leeroy Jenkins embodied.

>>47596944
How much did she use? Anyone notice what she used?

>>47596984

Well, some folk definitely noticed the grenades! She ended up using most of her supplies, but fortunately the combat was thick enough that nobody really had time to notice she was using unusual weapons.

I'll have to end things here, though, and get to bed. Next thread will be on Sunday after all, and I'd just like to thank everyone again!

>>47597038
No problem Moloch, great quest.

Have a good night.

>>47597038
Thanks for running Moloch. see you Sunday.

that was great