>Wraith is bolded instead of greentexted
Aw darn, I knew I messed something up.

>>1883128
>Josaiah Valmont
Dashing, gambling, rapier weilding duelist?
Sign me up.

>>1883168
>Josaiah Valmont

S U P P O R T

>>1883128
>Josaiah Valmont

>>1883128
>>Josaiah Valmont

>Josai is my boy

Something I forgot to mention that I'll be adding to the rundown is how actions are chosen. To cut down on unnecessary waiting, I'll be taking the first option to reach 3-5 votes, depending on player activity. Otherwise, the option with the majority vote after an hour will be used. That said...

>>1883168
>>1883182
>>1883208
>>1883230
>>1883239

Josaiah it is! Writing~

>>1883128
>Katherine 'Kat' Reynard
Hey QM did you run a quest like this a while back? I remember the OP pic, did the quest line have something to do with three rogues coming together to defeat some evil at the behest of the king

>>1883268
Indeed I did! I mentioned it in the OP, as well as offered an apology for abandoning it last year. I would have continued it from the previous point if I remembered what exactly happened (or archived it), but alas.

It'll have a similar plotline, but perhaps a bit less heavy-handed this time around.
I've learned some things about writing in the time I was gone so hopefully that'll shine through~

>>1883284
>quitting your quest like a little fucking faggot bitch
Eh, shit happens. Good to see you're trying again, excited to see where things go since our protag is different than last time

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>>1883298
Mhm, same~

-----------------------------------------------------
"Valmont, you'd best be able to pay up this time. I've let you slide before, but it's bad for business." The voice of the gruff tavernkeep elicits only a sly grin and a dismissive hand wave as you stroll toward the exit.

"Come on, Hal, you know me."

"Yeah, that's why I'm worried. Why don't you get a real job, eh?"

"It's a bit difficult when nobody's hirin'." Hal rolled his eyes at that.

"Excuses, lad. Just get me two gold pieces.Think you can manage that?" You turn and lean against the doorframe, folding your arms with that grin still plastered on your face.

Well, can you?

>"Of course."
>"I might need some help."

Character sheet added~

>>1883365
>>"Of course."

>>1883365
>>"Of course."

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>>1883391
>>1883400

"Of course I can, Hal. Just give me 'til I rise tomorrow and I'll have your money."

"You'd better. This time I'm not gonna let you freeload." Yeah yeah, you've heard this song and dance before. When it comes right down to it, Halford's just a big softie. His tavern's the closest thing to a home you've got, though, so it'd be nice to be able to pay him every once in a while. Problem is, you always manage to lose it all just as you're getting close to that big score you've been waiting for. Not even the silvered feathers of Uwtar you've pinned to your lapel seem to help with your abysmal luck. You've clearly done something in a past life to draw the fortune god's ire. Or perhaps it was something you've done in this life, who knows?

At any rate, you've got to come up with two gold pieces by tomorrow, and as you turn to leave, someone enters after you. Taking a look around the town, you're reminded of just what keeps bringing you back. Aside from the lovely ladies, of course. Built on a plateau surrounded by waterfalls, Aredaal is also known as the City of Stars. The entire area has a sort of mystic feel to it, like you're going to uncover a new magical mystery just by turning the corner. You've always been an adventurous sort, but Aredaal's mystique has always drawn you back. You don't remember where exactly you were born, but you wouldn't be surprised if it was on these rocks. Distant sounds of the rushing waterfalls provide a soothing backdrop for the day's activities, from gambling to shopping.

Speaking of which, you have gold to earn. How are you going to do it?

>[L] Gambling, of course.
>See who entered the tavern.
>Stroll around town and find something.

>>1883546
>Stroll around town and find something.

>>1883546
>>Stroll around town and find something.

>>1883546

>[L] Gambling, of course

>>1883546
>Stroll around town and find something.
Ye olde notice board

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>>1883563
>>1883582
>>1883640

In such a large city, there's bound to be random opportunities to make money scattered throughout. It's how adventurers make their money, right? You have just the spot in mind, too. Unfortunately, as you arrive at the notice board, you don't see anything particularly lucrative posted - just large eye-catching flyers and advertisements all vying for your attention. However, upon closer inspection you notice a smaller, plainer sheet pinned humbly underneath all the garish colors. You can just barely make it out, but penned in a slightly feminine script you read:

To anyone who can help:
Meet me outside the city tonight, western bridge. There will be compensation if you succeed with what I ask.

Seems legit.

>Go for it.
>Pass.

>>1883692
>>Go for it.
Why not

File: witch_of_the_wilds_by_kat(...).png (1.57 MB, 880x1920)

1.57 MB PNG

Terribly sorry for the late response.

>>1883751
"What's the harm in it?" you wonder aloud, before folding the note and tucking it away into your belt pouch. With that settled, you have the rest of the afternoon to yourself. You decide to use that time to continue your stroll around the city, taking in the sights and people-watching. Eventually, however, you find yourself sitting on one of the overlook vista benches, watching the waterfalls cascade over the cliffs into the expanse below. As the sun crests its zenith and begins its descent, you pull the note back out and examine it further.

The penmanship is definitely softer, perhaps you'll meet a fair maiden on this voyage. There's also a sense of urgency to it, as though it were written hastily - but not in a "my life is in danger" sort of way, more like an "I'm going to be late for a meeting" feeling. Other than that, there's nothing notable about it, and so you soon return it to its resting place in your pouch.

The afternoon passes, and you eventually rise from your seat at the vista as the stars begin to peek out from the sky. Aredaal is beautiful during the day, but the City of Stars earns its name under cover of night. The spires twinkle with moonbeams and dance with the stars that already exist in the sky, and the ever-turning globes move in sync with the movement of the world. At least, that's what a scholar once told you over a friendly mead. Either way, you figure the time can be reliably classed as "night", and so make your way towards the western bridge as the note requested.

Not a few minutes later, you arrive at the gates, just before they start to close. One of the guards warns you about curfew, but you assure him that you'll be fine out there. The gate guard begrudgingly lets you pass, and you pace about halfway down the bridge before you hear a scuffling, and then a sigh of relief.

"Oh, wonderful~. I was beginning to think nobody would answer my message!" The woman before you appears to be some kind of magic user, judging from her cloth attire and glowing staff.

> "So, what do you want?"
> [C] "Well, now I'm glad I answered it."
> "I don't trust mages."

>>1884271
>> [C] "Well, now I'm glad I answered it."

>>1884271
>> [C] "Well, now I'm glad I answered it."

>>1884282
>>1884326

Alright, roll a 1d20+1 for effectiveness~

Rolled 20 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1884504

>>1884504
Plz no 1

>>1884615
Shit son. Writing now.

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"Well, now I'm glad I answered it." You take up a more casual stance and flash the sorceress a grin as you glance over her form. She responds with a coy smirk and a cock of her hips as she folds her arms under her bust.

"While I appreciate the complement, let's just focus on the matter at hand," she subtly eyes you over and quirks an eyebrow slightly, before smirking again. "We can discuss... whatever else you had in mind later."

You chuckle at that and step forward, angling your head slightly downward to look her in the eyes - a golden hue, common in gifted mages. "Perhaps we could discuss it now, and leave whatever it is you had in mind for later."

"Ooh, we are bold, aren't we?" She almost purrs, stepping closer towards you so that your bodies are touching. There's a glint in her eye, but before you can make out what it means she bops you playfully on the head with her staff. "But we're getting ahead of ourselves. Mission first." She smirks again and sashays around you, taking point to lead you into the woods beyond. You fall into step beside her and grin to yourself. Your charms have never failed you before, and it seems they won't let up now. After a few minutes of traveling into the forest, she speaks up again.

"I'm Evie, though if you want to be formal I suppose you can call me Evelynn. Might you grace me with the honor of your name, handsome?" She flashes a playful smirk over her shoulder.

>"Josaiah's the name. Pleased to meet you, Evie."
>"I'm Josaiah. Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Evelynn."
>"I'm more interested in where we're going."

>>1884825
>>"Josaiah's the name. Pleased to meet you, Evie."

>>1884825
>I'm Josaiah. Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Evelynn.

I'm gonna stop it here tonight. I'll be back tomorrow, though! More than likely around 5pm GMT-5. For reference, it's 7:38pm as of posting this.

Send in those votes, and I'll write when I get back~

>>1884855
Later op!

>"I'm Josaiah. Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Evelynn."

>>1884855
>"Josaiah's the name. Pleased to meet you, Evie"

Rolled 2 (1d2)

Guess I'm back a little earlier than anticipated.

>>1884835
>>1884838
>>1885171
>>1885229
1 -> Evie
2 -> Evelynn

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"I'm Josaiah," you introduce yourself, offering a bit of an exaggerated bow - at least, as best as you can manage while moving. "Pleased to make your acquaintance, Evelynn." You don't know this woman, and despite your teasing earlier you feel it best to keep things professional, at least for now. You can hear a bit of a giggle from your companion as she shakes her head slightly.

"Only an acquaintance?" You can practically hear the fake pouting in her voice without needing to glance over at her to confirm it. You flash her another grin and shrug slightly.

"You did say we needed to keep things professional." The cute little 'hmph' she breathes in response is worth another bonk with her staff. Before the expedition settles into complete silence, however, you decide to speak up again.

"So, where are we going?" An innocuous enough question, but with a hidden layer of skepticism that would draw out the difference between an honest person and a liar. Fortunately, it seems your companion has no ulterior motives for bringing you so far afield of Aredaal, as she moves to answer you immediately.

"My camp is just up ahead, once we get there I can explain more." Well, sort of immediately. Your suspicions remain, but something tells you this woman isn't out to get you.

As you continue your trek, the sound of the rushing waterfalls return from their absence during the walk. Soon enough, you arrive at a small campsite, already occupied by another man polishing what appears to be plate armor. The campsite itself appears to be on the side of a cliff, with the city in all its sparkling majesty in plain view. As the two of you approach the camp, the man's head flicks upward at the sound. He gives you a wary glance before turning to Evelynn, who nods. The man visibly relaxes as his gaze turns back to you, more curious than wary this time, though.

>Approach with a handshake.
>Ask Evelynn who this is.
>Wait for Evelynn to introduce you.

>>1886248
>>Approach with a handshake.

>>1886248
>>Approach with a handshake.

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>>1886263
>>1886269

"Good evenin', my name's Josaiah." You approach the man with a smile and an outstretched hand, which he takes. A good firm shake is had and he nods at you. You notice that he also has golden eyes, and some of his facial structure looks ever so familiar.

"Don't be rude, introduce yourself!" Evelynn's voice pipes up, sounding exasperated but in a playful way. "Honestly, brother, I know you like the whole 'mysterious silent type' aura but it's just polite." Your suspicions are confirmed as she refers to the man directly as her brother, and the man in question sighs and chuckles quietly.

"Liam," he says plainly, with a short smile before returning to his work polishing the plates. You glance over at Evelynn, who rolls her eyes and shrugs at you as if to say 'What can you do?'. Regardless, she takes a seat on the grass next to his makeshift chair and looks up at you, finally getting around to talking about the business.

"Right then, I know you're wondering about what I needed you for," she begins, and you nod along before crossing your arms casually. "Well, we're on the run. A certain somebody's taken an interest in our talents and won't leave us alone." Liam nods at this to back his sister up. "My brother is handy in a fight, but I'm absolutely useless outside of my spells. Once those are used up, boom-" she gestures with her hands. "- Useless. I mean, I could give any assailants a good clubbing with my staff, but I haven't the strength to back that kind of assault up. That's where you come in," she smiles sweetly at you, as though attempting to convince you it's worth it. You raise an eyebrow, curious about many aspects of this task.

>"How long will you need me for?"
>"Who exactly is this 'certain somebody'?"
>"You promised compensation. How much are we talking?"
>"What talents are you talking about?"
>"Why not alert the guard?"

>>1886312
>"How long will you need me for?"

>"How long will you need me for?"

>Is the only reason you're here because you're running away from somebody? No, Other Alterior reason to be in town?

>>1886312
>>"How long will you need me for?"

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>>1886325
>>1886330
>>1886361

"How long will you need me for?" You ask, causing Evelynn to glance at her brother. Surprisingly, he's the one who speaks up now. "As long as it takes." You look at Evelynn, brow firmly raised, and attempt to wordlessly get more information. She squirms a little, seemingly uncomfortable with the situation, but sighs a bit and pipes up anyway.

"We're... actually not sure. We were hoping to find an adventurer or capable drifter of some sort who could stick around as long as necessary, but if we had to put a timeframe on it..." She places a finger to her chin, expression shifting into one of thought. "...I'd say a week, at most. It'd take that long to get to Brineport, right?" She glances over to her brother for confirmation, who nods. Despite Evelynn's propensity for action, it seems Liam is the one in charge between the two - more than likely the older sibling. Besides that, you've traveled to Brineport before - it's not even three days' journey. Why would they need a week to get there?

"Surely there's some other reason you've come to Aredaal?" You inquire, scratching another itch on your brain about the situation. Liam nods once more in response, but doesn't speak. He's since finished polishing his armor, however, and has his full focus on the conversation now. His expression is calm, analytical, and perhaps still a bit wary. No doubt asking all these questions is causing his faith to waver.

"Well, yes. We were hoping that a resident of the city would be able to guide us," Evelynn says matter-of-factly, fixing you with a curious gaze. "You see, Aredaal is known amongst us mages as a highly prized center of research, and we were hoping to... do some of our own." You quirk your brow skeptically at this.

>"Well, I'm no native, but I know the city well enough."
>"Research? Of what sort?"
>"If you're on the run, why risk stopping?"

>>1886383
>"Well, I'm no native, but I know the city well enough."

>>1886383
>>"Well, I'm no native, but I know the city well enough."

>>1886383
>>"Well, I'm no native, but I know the city well enough."
>>"Research? Of what sort?"

>>1886383
>>"Research? Of what sort?"

>>1886408
>>1886428
>>1886522

Deciding that you'll ask about the research later, you instead shrug. "Well, I'm no native, but I know the city well enough to take you where you need to go." Evelynn beams at this, and you could swear you saw the smallest of smiles from Liam as well, but as quickly as it came it was replaced by a yawn.

"Tired," he mumbles, somewhat sheepishly, as though he had to explain what a yawn is. You chuckle as the chain reaction begins and Evelynn follows suit, but you've managed to fight the reflex and simply stretch instead, grunting in satisfaction. However, as you look around you notice that there's only two tents. Evelynn notices this too, and shoots you an apologetic glance before piping up.

"Oh, I'm so sorry! You can use my tent if you want, I'm fine sleeping outside." You can tell from her expression that she'd really rather not, but it's a sweet gesture all the same.

>"Thank you, Evelynn."
>"There's no need to go to the trouble."
>[C] "Only if you join me."
>"Actually, I'll stand watch overnight."

-----------------------------------------------------
I think that'll just about do it for now. I really fucked up my sleep schedule this week and I have work tonight so I'm probably going to go lie down for a while and try to get some semblance of rest.

I'll be back to write the next post tomorrow at 10am GMT-5 (US Central Daylight) at the latest.

>>1886522
>>1886545
Sorry guys, you caught me as I was finishing up writing. I went back and edited in a detail to ask about research later though, so you're not being excluded~

>>1886553
>>"There's no need to go to the trouble."

>>"Actually, I'll stand watch overnight."

>[C] "Only if you join me"

>>1886553
>[C] "Only if you join me."

>>1886572
C'Mon, we need to be flirty. She had been receptive, let's get in that.

>>1886553
>[C] "Only if you join me."

>>1886553
>>"Thank you, Evelynn."
>>"There's no need to go to the trouble."

>"There's no need to go to the trouble."

>>1886616
Her brother's right there!

>>1888017
>>"There's no need to go to the trouble."

>>1886553

>[C] "Only if you join me."

THE OBVIOUS CHOICE.

>>1888017
So what. He isn't fucking her. I hope.

>>1886553
>>[C] "Only if you join me."

>>1888017
That makes it all the more thrilling, does it not?

Hmm

>>1886553
>[C] "Only if you join me."

>>1886599
>>1886607
>>1886634
>>1888082
>>1888168
>>1888695
My b guys, I guess I'm a filthy liar. ᖍ(ツ)ᖌ

Roll 1d20+1 for effectiveness! I'll take the best roll out of 3.

Rolled 15 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1888932

Rolled 4 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1888932

Rolled 5 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1888932

>>1888945
Not bad! Writing now~

Quick poll before I post: Do you prefer "romance paths" to be made clear to you via an indicator (eg, ">Do a thing [+rep]"), or would you rather have that remain a mystery/figure it out on your own?

>>1889008
not that the options I write are vague in the least, but I thought I'd ask still

>>1889008
It's more fun to figure them out on our own

>>1889008
As long as you give us narrative indicators. Do remember that many of us are socially inept nerds.

>>1889018
I thought as much, and honestly it seems like a silly question in retrospect.

>>1889023
Just like me.
I'm a little unsure of my ability to write something that isn't heavy-handed and obvious, but I suppose some scenes just fall that way. I'll post now and get feedback later.

"There's no need to go to the trouble," you begin, but the devil's smirk fixes itself to your face once more as you continue. "But, I would consider taking up that offer if you were to join me." Evelynn giggles a bit at this, but the look in her eye evokes the same sort of feeling you were drawing out of her not too long ago on the bridge. Liam, for his part, manages to surprise you by not playing the part of protective older brother. Instead, he simply just says one thing: "Don't make too much noise," and extinguishes the campfire before retreating into his tent. You loft an eyebrow at his back, then turn to see Evelynn rolling her eyes a bit. Once she notices you looking, she fixes you with a coy glare and a shake of her head, but there's still a hint of a smirk.

"He's been trying to get me with someone for quite a while now, surprising as it may be," she explains. "Honestly, that's the most subtle he's been about it in years." From Liam's tent you hear a soft snort, which only sends Evelynn's eyes rolling again. However, after a time she simply looks at you with a slightly apologetic tinge to her gaze. "I know you were probably expecting... something different, but I actually wouldn't mind having a warm body in my bed tonight."

>Accept. You wouldn't mind sharing her bed, even if it's not for sex.
>Accept. It's polite to follow through on your promises.
>Refuse. You were just teasing, after all.
>Refuse. You were only chasing her skirt, nothing more.

>>1889043

>Accept. It's polite to follow through on your promises.

>>1889043
>Accept. You wouldn't mind sharing her bed, even if it's not for sex.
Hey, a pretty mage? Let's see where this goes.

>>1889043
>>Accept. It's polite to follow through on your promises.

>>1889043

>Accept. You wouldn't mind sharing her bed, even if it's not for sex.

>>1889043
>>Accept. You wouldn't mind sharing her bed, even if it's not for sex.

>>1889043
>>Accept. You wouldn't mind sharing her bed, even if it's not for sex.

>>1889043

>Accept. You wouldn't mind sharing her bed, even if it's not for sex

>>1889054
>>1889115
>>1889118
>>1889124
>>1889172
Writing~

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You give her a smile, which prompts one of her own. It's a soft, warm look - somewhat surprising, given her easy reception to your flirtations previously. She seems more the modest maiden than the slinky seductress she seems to have been trying to act as before. You can't fault her for trying, though. That sort of confidence does wonders for the charisma -
you of all people would know this. Eventually you find yourself under the canvas of her tent, stripped to your undergarment and on the receiving end of a very cozy snuggle. Either Evelynn isn't shy about physical contact, or she falls asleep faster than you thought. Either way, the feeling is nice, and soon you find yourself drifting away as well.

- - -

Before long, the sun crests the horizon, and you awake to the feeling of Evelynn still attached to you. There's no possible way for you to get up without stirring her from her slumber, so you resign to relax for the time, staring up at the tent's ceiling and enjoying the company. A few hours pass, and the sorceress finally stirs with a cute yawn. As she rises, she seems to have noticed the position you were in, and very unsuccessfully tries to hide the faint tinge of pink creeping into her cheeks with a stretched-out arm. You smirk at her, and all she can do is pout in defeat. Satisfied with this small victory - over what, you couldn't say - you rise as well, pulling on your clothing and otherwise getting ready for the day ahead.

Eventually, Evelynn emerges, clothed in her mage's robes once more, and pokes her tongue out playfully in response to your teasing earlier. Liam soon follows from his own tent, and glances between the two of you before nodding.

It seems everyone's gathered, and you're to be their guide for the day. Where to go first, then, is the question.

>Take them to the tavern. They could use some lodgings if they're going to be staying here.
>Take them to the librarium. They were talking about research, and what better place to do it?
>Take them to the market. They have a trip ahead of them, so it would be wise to stock up.

>>1889320
>Take them to the tavern. They could use some lodgings if they're going to be staying here.

>>1889320
>Take them to the tavern. They could use some lodgings if they're going to be staying here.

>>1889320
>>Take them to the tavern. They could use some lodgings if they're going to be staying here.

>>1889320
>>Take them to the librarium. They were talking about research, and what better place to do it?
>>Take them to the market. They have a trip ahead of them, so it would be wise to stock up.

>>1889328
>>1889352
>>1889356
Writing~

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Glancing around the campsite, you can't help but think that if Evelynn and Liam were planning on staying here for a week's time then it couldn't hurt to give them some proper lodgings. And you know just the place, you think to yourself with a bit of a grin. "Right then, if we're ready to go, let's get to it." Liam nods, and Evelynn smiles, both falling into step as you lead them into the city. The gate guard looks at your companions inquisitively, but otherwise makes no fuss about letting you in.

As usual, the city is abuzz with activity, but it's a comfortable crowdedness - you can path along without bumping into anyone but the city is definitely alive. As you navigate the familiar streets towards the Rusty Diamond, Halford's tavern, you turn to converse with your companions. "First thing's first, we need to get you into some proper lodgings." Liam tilts his head slightly, looking confused. "We have a camp," he says plainly, to which you shake your head. "No no no, if you're going to be here for a week then the least I can do is set you up with some quality rooms." Liam looks to his sister, who shrugs, and then turns to you and nods, a hint of a smile on his lips. "Very well."

As you approach the Diamond, the door opens and a man emerges and lingers a bit, fixing you with an inquisitive stare for a few moments and glancing between your companions. Before anyone can make any meaningful conversation, he moves forward and continues about his business. You look over your shoulder, wondering just what that was all about, and you can swear you hear a sigh from the man as he passes by. Of course, through the open door you're spotted by Halford, who immediately makes this fact known.

"Josaiah! You got my payment yet?" Snapping your head back forward, you hastily enter the establishment, and the sound of footsteps behind you alerts you to the fact that Evelynn and Liam followed you in.

"Workin' on it, Hal," you respond, grinning as you approach the bar. The burly barkeep sighs heavily, with a hint of a growl as he shakes his head. "These two are my new employers," you explain, leaning against the countertop and gesturing over your shoulder with your thumb. Hal then turns his scrutinizing stare towards them.

"They paying, then?"

>"Not for me, but they do need rooms."
>"Not at all, I'm covering it."
>[C] "If they're okay with it."

>>1889768
Shit, I meant to put the [C] tag on the second option.

>>1889768
"Not at all, I'm covering it."
(With the money they will owe me/pay me with)
Any thing i could do for you inste d of gold

>>1889768
>>"Not for me, but they do need rooms."

>>1889768
>"Not at all, I'm covering it."

>>1889768
>>"Not for me, but they do need rooms."

>>1889768
>Not for me, but they do need rooms

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>>1889859
>>1890133
>>1890169

You figure the truth is the best path at this time, and shake your head. "Not for me, but they do need rooms. Since you're so endeared to me, I figured you wouldn't mind putting them up for the week." You flash a grin, and Hal releases another grumbling sigh, but seems to relent as he turns to face the pair. "Rooms are 50 silver a night. You can pay each day or all up front, your choice." Liam nods and fumbles around in his belt pouch for a moment before producing four gold coins. "Seven nights," he says in his verbally frugal manner, and places the coins on the countertop with a nod. Halford sweeps the coins into a large palm and ducks under the bar to count change, coming back up with the leftover 50 silver and a room key. As Liam takes his coins back, Hal folds his arms again and fixes his gaze upon you once more, with what appears to be an amused smirk under his moustache. "I already like them better than you, Josaiah. 'Least they can pay up." You shrug nonchalantly, which only makes the barkeep shake his head. "I'll let you off the hook this time, 'cause you're finally earning some gold for yourself, but I expect a full payment when your contract's up."

"Not to worry, old friend. I always keep my promises." Halford hmphs at that, turning back to clean the rest of his tankards.

"I didn't realize you were in such desperate poverty," Evelynn teases, looking over at you with a playful smirk. Liam steps away for a moment, presumably to go find their room, and Evelynn takes that opportunity to close the distance between you.

"Who, Josaiah? Poor sop thinks he's gonna make it big by gambling his life away," comes Hal's gruff rebuttal.

"One day, Hal. Just wait."

"Yeah, you can tell me all about it in the afterlife."

"How about a drink?"

"Not on your life, lad."

Evelynn simply giggles at the repartee between the two of you, but soon silence settles back over you, save for the squeaking of Hal's cleaning rag. You figure if you're going to learn anything more about these strangers who happen to be paying you, now would be the best time.

>"Tell me about yourself."
>"Tell me about Liam."
>"Tell me about the people you're running from."

>>1890310
Also, going to call it here. I'll be back tomorrow sometime, not gonna bother giving a specific time since I can't seem to keep to it, but I'll be back in the morning, and then in the evening.

Thank you all so much for participating, by the way~

>>1890310
>"Tell me about yourself."

>>1890310
>"Tell me about the people you're running from."

>>1890310
>Tell me about the people you're running from

>>1890310
>>"Tell me about yourself."

>>1890310
>>"Tell me about the people you're running from."

>>"Tell me about the people you're running from."

>>1890736
>>1891824
>>1894776
>>1895220
Evening friends, I'll start writing here in a bit~

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"So, this 'certain someone' you're running from..." You begin, casually trailing off and looking at Evelynn curiously. She looks a little uncertain, but after finding your eyes and studying them for a moment, she nods to herself as though confirming something in her head. "Well, it's pretty obvious that Liam and I are mages," she begins, and you nod in agreement, "and I'm sure you know that golden eyes are a mark of great magical ability, right?" You nod again, having heard the stories of the gold-eyed prodigies of yore. Evelynn seems to relax slightly, but doesn't respond to the inquisitive eyebrow raise you give her, instead opting to continue with her story.

"Liam and I are both exceptionally gifted mages. As you might guess, that tends to make us a target for various groups. Most of them are harmless, more like a university constantly sending you letters of invitation rather than anything malicious. Though, the people we're running from aren't so innocuous." She pauses at this, seeming a bit uncomfortable as she glances around. Nobody seems to be paying the two of you any mind, Halford included, so she continues, albeit in a quieter tone. "They call themselves the Ascended, and they want to bind us to their will - use our latent power for their own ends. They're everywhere, and we've only just been able to give them the slip." At that moment, Liam returns, glancing between the two of you. Upon seeing the subtle fear in Evelynn's eyes, he nods, understanding what is being talked about. "Come," he commands gently, beckoning for the two of you to follow.

After entering the room, Evelynn sits on the right-side bed while Liam closes the door and locks it. "How much has she told you?" The man seems serious, but not accusatory. You figure there's no need to dance around words, and give it to him straight.

"Not much - she only told me the name of the group that's chasing you." Liam nods at this, moving to sit next to his sister. You opt to remain standing, folding your arms casually as usual.

"The Ascended are unknown, but powerful." Surprisingly, Liam is the one to speak up. Perhaps this lends credence to Evelynn's jab about wanting to be the 'mysterious silent type'. Regardless, you listen on. "Some say they're shadowy puppeteers, pulling the strings behind the scenes and orchestrating all the major events since time immemorial. Not much is truly known about them, but they seem to have taken a great interest in me and my sister."

>"Why do they want you two specifically? Surely there are other gifted mages."
>"Why would they emerge from the shadows now, of all times?"
>"Is this related to what you're here to research?"

>>1895519
>>"Is this related to what you're here to research?"

>>1895519
>"Is this related to what you're here to research?"

>>1895519
>>"Is this related to what you're here to research?

>>1895571
Seconding

Also
"Why do you think you'd be safe anywhere if this group seems to be controlling everything from the shadows?"

>>1895571
>>1895640
>>1897598
Home from work, so I'm writing now~

Also, I'm not sure how the archiving/404 system works here, 'cause I'm sort of new. I have a vague idea but I never really understood the finer details. About what time should I be making a new thread?

You give Liam a curious look both for his newfound talkativeness, and for the content of his speech. As you absorb the information, a thought strikes you. "Is this related in any way to what you're here to research?" You ask, moving to sit on the bed opposite them. Liam tracks your movements and nods once you've sat down. "Indeed," he says, "we're trying to figure out what exactly it is about us that they want so badly." So even they don't know the full extent of why they're being chased. Good to know, at least. Although, as you recall Evelynn's nervous behavior at the bar, another question rises. "Why do you think you'd be safe anywhere if this group truly are shadow puppeteers, as you say they are?"

This question makes Liam visibly uncomfortable, and Evelynn glances over at him briefly, as though thinking the same thing. "We... don't, actually," the young man says matter-of-factly. "That's why we were camping out away from the city." You nod - makes sense. Liam continues with a more detailed explanation, however. "The Ascended are everywhere, but with a group so large information isn't going to spread instantaneously. The group that was chasing us might have alerted their contacts in the nearby cities, but it's a risk we're willing to take, now that we have you with us." Evelynn nods in support of her brother's claim, even going so far as to smile at you.

>"I'm glad to be of assistance."
>"As long as I get paid."
>"I'm getting in way over my head here - I want out."

>>1897765
>"How could I deny a request from people truly in need? Especially if one happens to be such a looker."

Also thread is still bumping for now.

>>1897765
>>1897771
Actually not so sure now. I wont change my write-in, but Im getting a little paranoid. Could these two be criminals? They were awfully quick to trust us, who's to say we wont lead them right into the arms of the ascended? Could it be they're lying and we're gonna end up as a sacrifice to some magic ritual? With our atrocious luck, a pretty lady might just turn out to be a trap that might land us on some ritual stone altar with a dagger stuck in our heart.

/shadowrun

>>1897773
A rogue must be prepared for any eventuality~

>>1897765
>>"I'm glad to be of assistance."

>>1897771
Seconding

>>1897771
Supporting

>>1897771
>>1897894
>>1897907
Write-in accepted~

Sorry for the sporadic schedule, what time I write usually depends on how work was the previous night.

"But of course. How could I deny a request from those truly in need?" You grin slyly, using the momentum to springboard into another flirtation. "Especially when one happens to be such a looker?" You look directly at Evelynn for this, but she giggles and shakes her head a bit, smirking coyly herself.

"I'm certain Liam appreciates the comment, Josaiah." You snort, having been caught off guard. Clever girl, you think, as Liam hides an amused grin of his own. Swiftly deciding to change the subject, you return to the matter at hand. "Well, you're staying here for a week. I would hope that stuffing yourselves away in a musty old library full of stuck-up wizards isn't the only thing you'll be doing during your stay." You glance between them, and the pair look at each other before shrugging in unison. Unbelievable. "Come now. As your official guide to Aredaal, I've made it my sworn duty to show you a good time."

>"Let me show you around my home: the gambling hall."
>"You seem like a pair who appreciates a good theatre performance, eh?"
>"Perhaps you'd like to see me in action? There's a dueling arena somewhere in town."
>"I believe a shopping spree is in order."

>>1898588
>>"Perhaps you'd like to see me in action? There's a dueling arena somewhere in town."

>>1898588
>>"Perhaps you'd like to see me in action? There's a dueling arena somewhere in town."

>>1898601
>>1899030
Seconded

>>1898601
>>1899030
Supporting

>>1898601
>>1899030
>>1899092
>>1899120
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29e-DUjBPYQ
Writing~

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A bit of inspiration strikes as you complete the sentence, and you can't help but adopt a bit of a confident grin. "Perhaps you'd like to see me in action? There's a dueling arena somewhere in town." Evelynn seems to light up at the idea, and even Liam raises his eyebrow with interest. Of course, what better way to prove your worth to an employer than to show them just how good you are at fighting? You nod and push up off the bed, folding your arms casually and looking between the two. "Well? We should get moving before the whole day is a waste."

As the three of you pass through the door to the Rusty Diamond, the same man that passed you by earlier that day crosses your path again. This time he seems more interested in your companions, but the result is much the same - before anything can be said, he continues walking forward and you hear the sound of the tavern's door opening once more. Quite the odd coincidence, you think, but the way he paused with each passing seems suspicious. "Josaiah?" Evelynn's voice cuts through the silence left in the man's wake, and you shake your head a bit, giving her a smile for good measure. "Ah, my apologies. Just had an odd feeling." Evelynn scrunches her brow a bit, seeming confused, but otherwise makes no further comment. You navigate the streets of Aredaal towards the arena without further happenings.

The sound of the roaring crowd reaches your ears long before the entrance does, and the familiar sound evokes memories of times before. You didn't get this good just by chance, after all. Not with your luck. As you approach the entrants' counter, the lady clerk behind the counter gives you a sly smirk. "Well well well, if it isn't Mister Valmont!" You give her a wink and a friendly wave, grinning all the while as you saunter up. "It feels like it's been a hound's age since I last saw you fight. Sure you haven't gone soft on us?"

"I assure you, the only thing that's soft here is your lovely hindquarters, Miriam." The clerk laughs at that, and you can't help but chuckle a bit as well. Once she settles down, though, she wags her finger at you. "Tsk tsk tsk... You know I'm a married woman, Josey." You shrug nonchalantly at that, winking once again with an utterance of "Whoops~". Miriam then looks behind you at your companions, then back to you. "I see you've made some new friends. They here to fight too?"

>"Nah, they're just here to watch."
>[C] "Well? How 'bout it?"`

>>1899463
>"Nah, they're just here to watch."

>>1899463
>>"Nah, they're just here to watch."
We're here to impress, after all

>>1899463
>"Nah, they're just here to watch."

>>1899479
>>1899483
>>1899634
Writing~

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You shake your head at the query. "Nah, they're just here to watch." Miriam shrugs, then points to the counter on the other side of the gate. "Well, they'll need to buy tickets first, in that case. You turn to look at the two and briefly consider attempting to sweet-talk your way into a pair of free tickets for them, but Evelynn smiles at you and nods before you get a chance to think of what you'd say. "It's fine, Josaiah. We'll see you when you get in!" She says, her attempt at putting on a calm facade betrayed by the hint of excitement in her voice. Liam also nods, but says nothing more as he leads his sister over to the admissions line.

"Cute lass you rustled up there, Josey~." The clerk takes the opportunity to tease you, an attempt you simply chuckle at. "Can't say you're wrong there, Miriam." She rolls her eyes slightly and leans forward to prop her head up in a hand, almost pouting at you. "C'mon Josey, it's been ages since you last came around. You know I gotta know the spicy details of your life. Did you two sleep together yet?"

>"Hey now, I don't always chase skirts."
>"Well, technically we did."
>"Of course we did - you know me, don't you?"
>"Let's just get registration sorted out, eh?"

>>1900081
>>"Well, technically we did."

>>1900081
>"Let's just get registration sorted out, eh?"

>>1900081
"Oh, come now. A gentleman doesn't kiss and tell. "

>>1900237
>"Oh, come now. A gentleman doesn't kiss and tell. "
>>1900081

>>1900237
Supporting

>>1900237
>>1900267
>>1901284
Writing~

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>>1900081

"Oh, come now. A gentleman doesn't kiss and tell." You give the clerk lady a cheeky grin as you say this, which causes her to snort. "Whatever you say, gentleman." You share a chuckle and then get the business of registration sorted. Miriam leaves her booth, to hand over your papers to the announcer and owner. With a glance over at the admissions line, you see Liam just now purchasing the tickets, with Evelynn's gaze wandering around. When it passes by you and meets your eyes, she smiles brightly and waves. You grin in return and give a casual wave back, gesturing to the registration desk with your thumb. She nods in understanding, and then disappears through the entrance with Liam. A few minutes later, Miriam returns, taking a seat at her desk and giving you a wink. "All signed up. Good luck, Josey~." You give her a brief word of thanks before entering the fighters' hold.

While in the hold, you see a couple of the other combatants, most seeming worn out - they seem to have just finished fighting. Upon noticing you looking at them, the smaller one waves friendly-like, while the larger, brutish one simply stares at you. You would stay and chat, but the announcer enters at that precise moment, face splitting into a beaming grin at the sight of you. "Oh-ho! If it isn't Mister Valmont! I'd thought my eyes were deceiving me when I saw your name on those papers, son!" You chuckle at the familiar old man's story, and he claps a hand on your shoulder. "I couldn't help but notice, however, that you didn't write in a stage name this time. Going straight, or should I just use your old one?"

>"Stage name or no, the world knows me as Josaiah Valmont, so that's what I'm going with."
>"Yeah, go ahead and use my old fighter name." [Write in a stage name to use.]

>>1903348
>"Stage name or no, the world knows me as Josaiah Valmont, so that's what I'm going with."

>>1903348
>"Yeah, go ahead and use my old fighter name: Red Fox"

>>1903348
>>"Stage name or no, the world knows me as Josaiah Valmont, so that's what I'm going with."

>>1903434
>>1903930

Writing~

>>1907358
It seems we're on autosage now - I'll post in a new thread and link it here when I do.

>>1907368

And here's the new thread: >>1907390