>>2851029
>>Split off from the main force.

Time to finish the fight.

>>2851029
>Split off from the main force.

>>2851029
>Split off from the main force.
Can't wait to chop off Semiramis's head and put it on our halberd spike.

>>2851029
>>Split off from the main force.

>>2851029
>Travel with the main force.

>>2851046
Why do that when we could force her to wear rags and parade her around the city?

>>2851057
Because she'd be dead.

>>2851029
>Split off from the main force.

>>2851057
With, or without Morgan leading her around on a leash?

>>2851029
>Split off from the main force.

File: Emperor's Champion 3.jpg (517 KB, 2880x1800)

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>>2851029
You decided it was best to travel separately from the main column. You could travel more freely in the smaller group, and would give you an opportunity to bypass the Elven defenses so you wouldn't have to try and penetrate them.

And just like that, you group leaves in the dead of night. Not even Luna graces the sky with her foreboding presence, shrouding the land in true darkness. This was no coincidence, however. Helbrecht had chosen this exact night to move out, Luna's absence blinding both regular and Elven eyes.

In this, case you were completely reliant on Morgan, Janice, Artya, and Atalanta to lead the way, the demihumans' enhanced sense proving to be invaluable in leading the way.

You and Niko follow close behind, with Naru carrying a still sleeping Nino. The poor girl simply wasn't used to staying up or getting up this early.

"If we keep following the road, I think we can get in position before Sol rises." Morgan whispers. "But we'd have to pass the border checkpoint, which is currently manned by a mix of Paladins, Eisenwand City Guard, and Anteon border troops."

"They might give us away." Niko frowns.

"We could always just bypass the border crossing." Atalanta suggests.

"But that's rough terrain." Morgan cautions. "Not only thick forests, but lots of hills and uneven ground. There's a reason why there's not many roads into the Frontier."

"And there's the risk of running into bandits or wildlife." Naru grunts. "And I'd rather not have to deal with those."

Artya meanwhile simply tugs at your arm and points up ahead. You can see several torches burning weakly in the distance, marking the location of the border crossing. You could see only about four or so guards on duty, and they weren't looking very alert. Maybe you could just sneak right past without them noticing.

>Just lawfully pass through the checkpoint. You have nothing to hide.
>Try to sneak past the checkpoint.
>Bypass the checkpoint through the forest.
>Other

>>2851127
>Just lawfully pass through the checkpoint. You have nothing to hide.

>>2851127
>Just lawfully pass through the checkpoint. You have nothing to hide.

>>2851127
>Just lawfully pass through the checkpoint. You have nothing to hide

Maybe hide Morgan's features since they could attract some unneeded attention.

>>2851127
>Just lawfully pass through the checkpoint. You have nothing to hide.

>>2851127
>>Just lawfully pass through the checkpoint. You have nothing to hide.

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>>2851127
You just stride forward confidently. There was nothing to fear. You were passing through the border lawfully, after all.

You can't see anyone else in the darkness, but you could tell the had hesitated for a moment before following your lead. After all, they hadn't come all this way by not trusting your lead.

Hopefully it would lead you true this time.

>Roll 1d20

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>2851170

File: Riyo Wolf.png (126 KB, 450x600)

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Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>2851170

>>2851177
Did they like Morgan's fluffy ears and tail so much they let us pass?

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>2851170

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>>2851177
Oh hey! It's a 20!

Would you like to bank that for a FATE POINT? You currently have no points!

>Y
>N

>>2851191
>Y

>>2851191
>Y

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>>2851191

>Y

Nothing can beat our party full of cute girls!

>>2851191
>>Y

>>2851191
>Y

>>2851191
>Y

>>2851191
>Y

File: 53590216_p0.jpg (685 KB, 1592x2029)

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>>2851191
>FATE POINT GAINED!
>You currently have 1 point!

As you get closer to the checkpoint, you not that there only seemed to be two guards present, one Paladin and one City Guard. You assume the rest were asleep in the nearby barracks, or simply off duty. The City Guard looks bored out of his mind, and fighting the urge to fall asleep. You suspect the only reason why he hasn't done so already was due to being under the watchful eye of the Paladin.

The Paladin, meanwhile, you couldn't immediately tell anything from him. He was wearing the standard silver armor and white and gold tabard of his order. He simply stood tall and resolute.

"Oh, you're the Ashwalker!" The City Guard blinks. "What brings you out here this late?"

"Just have some business to take care of in the kingdoms." Morgan speaks up for you. "Nothing too serious, but we do need to get there in a hurry."

"Ah, well, guess there's no problem with that, right?" The guard turns to the Paladin.

The Paladin gives you and your companions a wary look, but then nods.

"No objections."

"Well then, good luck on your business!" The guard tips his hat as he stands out of the way, leaving the road open for you.

You just give him a respectful nod and your party passes through without incident.

"Heh, guess we all got worked up about nothing!" Niko chuckles.

"But having such lax security on your borders... simply unacceptable." Atalanta huffs, her ears twitching angrily under her hood.

"Hey! But it worked out for us in the end!" Janice smiles as she pats her comrade's shoulder.

"I suppose." Atalanta concedes.

"We just have to keep going at this pace and we'll get there in no time." Morgan says to you.

You simply nod.

As your group continues down the road, everybody is ominously silent. You all know that your mission was critical, and highly dangerous. Failure and death were highly likely outcomes, and the tension was thick and heavy in the air.

>Check in with the demihumans. See how they're holding up.
>See whether Morgan's still bothered about her failed mission.
>See if Niko really is okay going along with this.
>Do a quick checkup on Nino with Naru.
>Better not bother anyone.
>Other

>>2851280
>Check in with the demihumans. See how they're holding up.

Their involvement in this war will put them on the map as well as a target for better, or worse.

>>2851280
>See if Niko really is okay going along with this.

>>2851280
>>See whether Morgan's still bothered about her failed mission.

>>2851280
>Check in with the demihumans. See how they're holding up.

>>2851280
>Better not bother anyone.

File: Atalanta 3.jpg (1.39 MB, 1417x2061)

1.39 MB JPG

>>2851280
You move over to your three demihuman companions. You were actually a bit curious to see how they were handling this situation that must have been completely alien to them.

"Oh! Templar!" Janice says happily. "Don't tell me you're worried about us?"

You nod. That was partly why you had come over, after all.

"Don't worry, this isn't our first time we've had to deal with outside threats." Atalanta assures you, her hand patting her intricately crafted bow. "And these Elves don't hold a candle to us up close. We can handle ourselves."

Artya nods in agreement.

Well, it was good to see them in high spirits.

"And what about you, Templar?" Atalanta moves up to your side, keeping pace with you. "What exactly are you feeling, right now?"

>Confident we will prevail.
>Worried something go wrong.
>Putting my faith in Sol.
>Other

>>2851328
>Confident we will prevail.

>>2851328
>Putting my faith in Sol.

>>2851328
>Confident we will prevail
Must inspire hope

File: 1535575386703.png (3.27 MB, 1176x1764)

3.27 MB PNG

>>2851328
>>Worried something go wrong.

Never hurts to hope that Sol will send down a shining angel draped in sunlight to aid us. Though I wouldn't be surprised if Luna sent her angels down as well.

>>2851290
It's what's after the fighting that's really worrying. Perhaps the central Kingdoms would hire Demi mercenaries, diplomats and explorers to better learn of their capabilities.

>>2851328
>Confident we will prevail.

>>2851328
>Putting my faith in Sol.

>>2851328
>Putting my faith in Sol.
>>2851328

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>>2851328
Hmmmm, it looks like we're going to have to run a quick runoff vote!

>Confidence
>Faith in Sol

>>2851380
>>Faith in Sol

>>2851380
>Confidence
>Faith in Sol

>>2851380
>Faith in Sol

>>2851380
>Faith in Sol

>>2851380
>Confidence

>>2851380
Confidence

>>2851380
>Faith in Sol

>>2851380
Why can't we have both? Is my big question.

File: 51070151_p0.jpg (1.4 MB, 1500x985)

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>>2851380
You point to the icon of Sol emblazoned on your armor. If all else failed, you had faith that He would see things through.

"Ah yes, Sol." Atalanta nods. "Well, I hope that your faith isn't misplaced."

You nod in agreement.

Your party continues on farther. You soon start to reach the target point, a huge wall of untouched forest marking the delineation between Anteon and the Frontier. It was at this point that Sol was beginning to rise, His light starting to illuminate the sky and land.

And also reveals to you something troubling.

Up ahead, you could see what appeared to be a mercenary camp of some kind. Tents were laid out in loosely organized rows, and mercenaries were milling about randomly through the camp. Their discipline was dreadful. No sentries, no patrols, and no fortifications. Disgusting.

"Who the hell are these guys?" Niko frowns.

"Trouble." Morgan scowls. I get the feeling they're not here to sightsee."

You turn to Morgan. Part of this noble conspiracy she was investigating?

"They're probably here to keep an eye on the border. See if Lucina or the Templars try to cross the border." Morgan concludes and looks back to you. "Their camp might have evidence of their intentions here..."

You get the feeling that Morgan was simply jumping at the chance to redeem herself. The camp was still disorganized and off alert due to the early hour. It would be a simple matter to bypass them but...

>Fine, we'll investigate.
>We'll have to ignore them for now.
>We don't have to worry about them if we chase them from the field.
>Other

>>2851434
>We'll have to ignore them for now.

>>2851434
>We'll have to ignore them for now.

>>2851434
>We'll have to ignore them for now.
If we chase them off, there's a good chance they'll either start tracking us or report back to their employers. Either is even worse than just them spotting our allied forces.

>>2851434
>>Fine, we'll investigate.

>>2851434
>>We'll have to ignore them for now.

>>2851434
>Fine, we'll investigate.

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>>2851434
You shake your head and point to the forest. These mercenaries were not your concern. You had to focus on your mission.

"But-" Morgan protests.

You raise a finger to quiet her. The party couldn't afford to be sidetracked on side activities like this.

"Fine, I'll go myself, then." Morgan huffs as she spins her heel towards the camp.

Everyone else, save Nino, who was still asleep, just looked on with awkward silence, none of them sure of whether they should intervene in this spat or not.

>Just let her go.
>Stop her.
>Send someone to back her up.
>Other

>>2851476
>Stop her.

>>2851476
>>Just let her go.

>>2851476
>Stop her.
We really do need a leash.

>>2851476
>Send someone to back her up.

Maybe Romulus or Niko.

>>2851487
I just hope we don't actually start fighting in the middle of this place.

>>2851476
>Stop her.
Fuck's sake girl, calm 'yo tiddies.

>>2851487
>>2851490
If it comes down to it, we may need to bind her to make her see sense.

File: Morgan ranger 10.png (1.87 MB, 1390x859)

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>>2851476
You couldn't afford to waste any time here. You reach out and gently grab Morgan's shoulder. She had to let it go.

>Roll 1d20

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>2851504
wew

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>2851504
I hope we can remind her of her human side.

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>2851504

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>2851504

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>>2851504
However, you see Morgan make a sudden movement as she twists her body around. You're not sure if she was merely trying to escape your grip or if she was straight up trying to attack you, but she certainly wasn't cooperating.

>Try to subdue her yourself.
>You need some help on this.
>Other

>>2851521
>Try to subdue her yourself.

>>2851521
>Try to subdue her yourself.
If we bring more people in, it'll more than likely shift her from fight to flight.

>>2851521
>Try to subdue her yourself.

>>2851521
>>Try to subdue her yourself.

I think this is the right opportunity for us to audibly speak to her since we've pretty much never spoken in public.

"She may have the eyes of a Wolf. But there is a Beauty in the Beast."

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>>2851535

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>>2851535

I suppose then that we'll be the brave knight rescuing the maiden from the beast. Except it's an internal conflict.

>>2851521
>>Try to subdue her yourself.

>>2851535
Fucking poetry right there muh Sol.

File: Morgan 62.png (1.7 MB, 2500x2500)

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Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>2851521
You knew you had to act fast. You had to subdue Morgan before she had a chance to use that superhuman speed and strength of hers...

>Roll 1d20+1

Rolled 18 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>2851563

Rolled 17 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>2851563
Mating Press help us in our time of need

Rolled 5 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2851563

Rolled 15 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>2851563
Tell us your beef, woman!

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>>2851563
You manage to pull Morgan in close and wrap your arms around her, locking her against your chestplate in a tight hug.

Morgan struggles for a second or two before giving up, her angered grunts giving way to a pained whimper.

"I hate this." She mutters to you, her head still pressed to your chest. "I hate having screwed up and maybe ruining everything."

You pause. She was talking about what happened on her scouting mission at that Baron's manor, wasn't she?

"I can't stand the thought of just trying to forget it!" Morgan trembles. "I want to make it right. I need to make it right!"

Oh Morgan, you silly girl.

>She can go if she calms down.
>She's not going anywhere, even if you have to keep hugging her all the way.
>Other

>>2851590
>She's not going anywhere, even if you have to keep hugging her all the way.

>>2851590
>She's not going anywhere, even if you have to keep hugging her all the way.
>She can make it up later

>>2851590
>She's not going anywhere, even if you have to keep hugging her all the way.

Could always whisper something cheesy into her ear along the lines of: "You're a Wolf, and Wolves hunt in Packs."

>>2851590
>>She can go if she calms down.

>>2851590
>>She can go if she calms down.

Fuck it, if it doesn't work, go with the cheesy line: >>2851595

File: Morgan ranger 3.png (428 KB, 733x1100)

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>>2851590
You just lower your head closer to hers and whisper.

"You're a wolf. Wolves hunt in packs."

That causes Morgan to freeze and finally calm down, her body going limp.

"Uhhhhh, do we need to give you two some private time or something?" Niko asks curiously.

That's when you remember the rest of the party was still present. Niko's arms were crossed, her face showing endless amusement while Naru had turned away so Nino couldn't see what was going on. Romulus just looked on happily, his tail wagging wildly.

Janice and Artya looked to be incredibly interested in what was going on, while Atalanta was doing her best to pretend she didn't care.

You swear you can feel Morgan physically shrinking under all this sudden scrutiny.

>Just give us a few minutes.
>We've had enough delays. Let's proceed.
>Other

>>2851616
>Just give us a few minutes.
[Headpatting Intensifies]

>>2851616
>Just give us a few minutes.

>>2851616
>We've had enough delays. Let's proceed.

>>2851616
>>We've had enough delays. Let's proceed.

>>2851616
>Just give us a few minutes.

File: Morgan ranger 6.png (1.84 MB, 2480x3507)

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>>2851616
You motion for the others to continue on ahead. You want to have a few moments alone with Morgan.

"Sure. Gotcha." Niko winks and she saunters off.

"Just make it fast." Naru rolls her eyes as she walks past.

"Nnnnn, make what fast?" Nino mumbles as she starts to wake up.

"Nothing, squirt."

Janice and Atalanta follow suit, with both of them having to drag a curious Artya away.

Finally, even Romulus trots off.

It's then that you finally let go of Morgan and look at her straight in the eye.

"I'm.... I'm sorry." Morgan mumbles. "I just... don't like leaving loose ends."

You simply pat Morgan's head. You're glad that she's keeping all of your safety in mind, but Baron Hotzendorf could be dealt with later. After all, the main threat here was still Semiramis.

"Right, right." Morgan takes a deep breath as her body relaxes. "All right, let's go, then."

The two of you catch up with the rest of the party just as they are about to enter the treeline.

"All right, so how are we gonna do this?" Niko wonders. "Maybe we take positions up in the trees? Come down on them from above?"

"Er, some of us can't exactly fight well up high." Morgan points her thumb to you.

You give her an accusing glare, but you do have to admit she has a point. An ambush from above had the most surprise, but was the most difficult to pull off.

"Well, I think I can hide us with a spell!" Nino offers. "That will let us get close!"

"Squirt, this ain't some random bandit or monster we're dealing with here." Naru cautions. "This is an Elven princess! They're extremely powerful magic casters."

"Pffft, I could probably beat her." Nino rolls her eyes.

Well, she DID easily counter Semiramis' attempt to hex Morgan before.

"I think the best thing we can do is wait outside the treeline." Morgan suggests. "Wait for them to break the tree cover and we hit them in the open. Though, it would be more a ranged engagement than close combat."

"And we would have those mercenaries at our back." Atalanta points out.

>Ambush from above.
>Use a spell to hide.
>Wait outside the forest.
>Other

>>2851652
>Use a spell to hide.

If we're desperate, we can always use the classic technique of stealing uniforms.

>>2851652
>Ambush from above.

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>>2851652
>>Ambush from above.

Here's hoping we get a nice reward once this whole war is over. Maybe a nice manor or cottage along with a tract of land, and maybe a small village to manage provided we stay there long enough.

>>2851652
>>>Ambush from above.

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>>2851652
You point up to the trees. You'll ambush Semiramis up from above. It'll be the the last place they'll expect, honestly.

"All right, but I hope you can actually get up there..." Morgan frowns.

Oh, that was a simple matter. What's the worst that could happen?

>Roll 1d20

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>2851678

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>2851678

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>2851678

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>>2851665

Would be a nice place to raise a family when they decide to settle down. I'd expect great things from the family such as the first Templar Dragon Riders maybe not within Templar and Morgan's lifetime, but perhaps their children or grandchildren's lives.

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>>2851678
You manage climb up a rather large tree with relatively little issue. Thankfully, it had a great deal of large, thick branches that you could take advantage of to keep you supported and suspended in the air.

The rest of the party similarly managed to reach advantageous positions in the trees. Morgan and the other demihumans were naturals, of course, able to clamber their way up with obvious ease. Morgan was also foresighted enough to help carry Romulus up. Niko likewise was able to get high up thanks to her ninja reflexes.

Naru and Nino, obviously had the most trouble, which was mostly why the both of them clung close to you as you scaled upwards, using you as a secure anchor. Naru was quite clearly distressed at having to go through all this trouble while Nino was having the time of her life.

"Higher! Higher!" She encouraged you.

"Any higher and we'll break our damn legs!" Naru groans. "And probably our necks, too."

And that's when you could smell it. Burning wood and ash as it was carried by the wind. It looks like Helbrecht had started his offensive.

And sure enough you could see movement in the brush below as thousands of Elves marched. you had to give them credit, they weren't routing or panicking and fleeing in a disorganized mob like you were hoping they would. Instead, they moved in a coordinated manner with purpose, neither going too fast or to slow. It was clear they had planned for this contingency.

Well, maybe not exactly THIS contingency. You carefully observed the crowd below when you quickly could see a mighty living tree pushing its way through the forest. It wasn't just a regular treant, though. It was an Ancient. An extremely old tree that had gained its own sentience through absorbing excessive amounts of mana. Not like treants, which were artificial constructs created by the Elves. Its wood and bark were gnarled and twisted from age, golden leaves from great branches a large as trees themselves swaying and rustling with every might movement. Each step was enough to shake the earth.

Unfortunately, the high of this Ancient was such that even from your high up position, you couldn't actually attack it from above.

But was Semiramis in it? You couldn't be sure, but you wouldn't have any opportunity to board the Ancient otherwise...

>Board the Ancient.
>Let it pass.
>Send someone to infiltrate the Ancient.
>Other

>>2851704
>>Board the Ancient.

>>2851704
>Board the Ancient.

>>2851704
>>Board the Ancient.

Seems this tree is perfect kindling for some dragonflame. Unfortunately, it's not Weirwood.

>>2851704
>Board the Ancient.

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>>2851704
You motion to the rest of the party to board the ancient. Even if Semiramis wasn't on it, destroying it would be a boon to your side.

You companions nod, and Morgan, Janice, Artya, and Atalanta were the first to go, easily making the leap into the Ancient's branches. Niko was quick to follow, as well.

Now you just had to make the jump...

"This is such a bad idea..." Naru groans.

Well, too late to go back now.

>Roll 1d20

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>2851727
Here we go...

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>2851727

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>2851727

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>>2851727
You make the leap, snapping some of the smaller branches but otherwise managing to land somewhat safely.

Naru and Nino are still clinging on to you as you make your way through the branches, following Morgan and the others' lead through the thick brush, trying to get into the interior of the Ancient.

Thankfully, the Ancient doesn't seem to notice the new set of unwanted visitors, and continues to plod along.

"Whoa, a real Ancient!" Nino marvels as she clings to your back, her head swiveling nonstop. "I can see the mana coursing through it! It's totally different from weirwood, but it's still amazing!"

"I just want this to be over..." Naru groans as she carefully picks her way through the branches. "I was so not ready for this!"

Finally, you seem to break into some sort of cavity, and you drop down onto a hard wood floor. Ahead of you, you could see Morgan, Janice, Artya, Atalanta, and Niko already in aggressive fighting stances, and you could already see why.

There, sitting smugly in an oaken throne, was Semiramis herself. Light filtered down onto her unmarred form and leaves fluttered down slowly, wreathing her in verdant beauty.

"Like flies in a trap." Semiramis chuckles. "I must applaud you, coming out all this way to try and ambush me. Quite the bold move!"

"Enough talk." Morgan scowls as she aims her bow. "Give it up and you won't be hurt."

"Oh no, how terrifying!" Semiramis cries in mock terror. "Oh whoever shall come and save me?"

Semiramis then snaps her fingers, and treants begin literally growing right out of the ground, forming a wall of living wood between your party and Semiramis.

"Greeeeeaaaat." Naru groans.

"So many targets!" Nino chirps.

>Forget the small fry, go straight for Semiramis.
>Distract the treants while the others make their move.
>Other

>>2851753
>Distract the treants while the others make their move.

>>2851753
>>Distract the treants while the others make their move.

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>>2851753
Hmmmm, looks like we'll just have to pause things here for today. We'll conclude this final showdown tomorrow! See you then!

>>2851753
>Distract the treants while the others make their move.
Thanks for running Merc!

>>2851753
Distract the treants.

>>2851753
>>Forget the small fry, go straight for Semiramis.

Fire. Fire! FIRE!

>>2851753
>Distract the treants while the others make their move.

We need to totally use our new sweet combo attacks we've been working on with our party in secret. Things like Niko or Morgan using us as a springboard after we fully invested in a heavy attack.

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>>2851760
You start off by charging directly at the treants, with the understanding that you would keep them distracted while your ranged companions would have space and time to engage Semiramis, who was still smugly nestled on her throne.

The treants themselves were small and spindly, obviously grown to focus on speed and agility. However, it would mean nothing if they couldn't get through your defenses.

You catch Naru in a prayer, no doubt to cast supporting blessings on either you or Nino. You would be taking the brunt of the charge, but Nino herself was relatively defenseless besides her fortress shroud.

>Have Naru bless you.
>Have Naru bless Nino.
>Other

>>2854066
>Have Naru bless Nino.

>>2854066
>Have Naru bless Nino.
we are strong, we can take our lumps.

>>2854066
>>Have Naru bless Nino.

>>2854066
>>Have Naru bless Nino.

>>2854066
>Have Naru bless Nino.
Charge the laser beam.

>>2854066
>Have Naru bless Nino.

>>2854066
>Have Naru bless Nino.

File: 1468529008918.jpg (604 KB, 792x965)

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Rolled 11, 16, 5 = 32 (3d20)

>>2854066
You point to Nino as you charge forward, telling Naru to focus her efforts on protecting her. Naru nods while you turn your attention back to the ravenous horde of treants. The wall of clawing branches and wood quickly engulfed you as you plunged into the fray.

>Roll 1d20+2

Rolled 4 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2854209

Dragonheart SURGE!

Rolled 11 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2854209

Rolled 12 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2854209

File: 53491506_p0.png (800 KB, 700x1000)

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Rolled 8, 10, 10, 16, 17, 16 = 77 (6d20)

>>2854209
...

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>>2854235
You swing your halberd, managing to catch a number of the damn treants. The heavy blade shears and shatters wood, sending splinters and chips flying in all directions.

Meanwhile, Morgan, Atalanta, and Nino begin flinging spells and arrows at Semiramis, but she casually waves a hand and their projectiles veer off into random directions.

Niko and Artya use your mass as a springboard, each of them planting a foot on your shoulders and leaping up and over the mass of treants, going straight for Semiramis. However, the Elven princess merely snaps her fingers, and a wall of invisible energy materializes right in front of them, instantly stopping their progress as they slammed into it.

"Oh come on, that's just cheating!" Niko wails as she slides off the barrier.

However, the treants were more vicious than you had anticipated, and they were quickly bogging you down despite you cutting down dozens of their number. At this rate, you wouldn't be able to link up with Niko and Artya.

You could ask for your ranged companions to shift their fire onto the horde, but then they wouldn't be able to put pressure on Semiramis, who so far was focusing on acting defensively. You were also hesitant to ask Niko and Artya to plunge into the fray, as they they didn't have your physical protection.

You could always "activate" your armor, though. Treants didn't like fire, but to start one in a place like this, in the heart of an Ancient...

>Ask for backup from your ranged companions.
>Ask for backup from our melee companions.
>Use your armor.
>Try to press on by yourself.
>Other

>>2854265
>>Use your armor.

>>2854265
>>Use your armor.

>>2854265
>Use your armor.

Time for Maximum Overdrive!

Maybe we should roar or something to make it more dramatic!

>>2854265
>Use your armor.

What could go wrong.

File: True Hatred.png (331 KB, 465x326)

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>>2854265
>Use your armor.

>>2854265
>Use your armor.
BURN
EVERYTHING

File: Dragon knight.jpg (1.97 MB, 2400x1137)

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>>2854265
Well, it seemed like you had no other choice. You focus your mind, picturing your armor going up flames. Your now enchanted armor responds and begins to glow brightly...

>Roll 1d20

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>2854318

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>2854318

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>2854318

We need to burn hotter!

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>2854318

>>2854322
Looks like the dragonflame that made this armour is still alive and well.

>>2854318
>>2854329
Dragons love burning elf shits.

File: 49852104_p0.png (1.94 MB, 1697x1200)

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>>2854322
Ohohoho! A 20!

Would you like to turn that into a FATE POINT?

You currently have 1 point!

>Y
>N

>>2854335
>>N

>>2854322
>>2854332
Time for us to show our own inner, and outer Dragonflame!

>>2854335
N
Burn it all to the ground!

>>2854335
>N

>>2854335
>N

>>2854335
>N
Burn this sucker down!

>>2854335
>N
We dragon now?

>>2854335
N

>>2854335
>N
Burn Baby Burn

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>>2854335
You armor EXPLODES, sending flame in all directions. The mass of treants is instantly reduced to ash as you stand, your armor alight.

Semiramis flinches for the first time n this battle, as she looks at you with a hint of concern for a split second. However, she's still safe behind her magical barrier and she snaps her fingers again.

This time, Forest Wardens begin dropping down from the branches above, no doubt the first of the reinforcements coming to protect their princess. Their numbers were starting to grow, and given the relatively small size of your party, it would only be a matter of time before numbers swamped you all.

>Focus on taking out Semiramis as fast as possible.
>Focus on disabling the Ancient so the rest of the Templars can catch up.
>Other

>>2854396
>Focus on taking out Semiramis as fast as possible.

>>2854396
>Focus on taking out Semiramis as fast as possible.

>>2854396
>Focus on taking out Semiramis as fast as possible.

>>2854396
>>Focus on taking out Semiramis as fast as possible.

I swear there's a joke for this moment about a Dragon kidnapping Princesses

>>2854396
>Focus on taking out Semiramis as fast as possible.
>Nino! Use your magic to dispell the barrier!

Uh guys, She still has her bullshit shield up.

>>2854396
>Focus on taking out Semiramis as fast as possible.

File: 1501150288110.jpg (4.18 MB, 1700x1400)

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>>2854396
You turn to where Semiramis was smugly sitting on her throne. You knew your only hope was to take her out quickly, but that blasted magical barrier of hers was still up. Usually, the simplest way was to just overwhelm it with brute force.

But Semiramis was an impossible powerful magic caster. Who knew how much punishment her barrier could take? Maybe Nino could dispell it, but you'd be pitting the young mage against one of the oldest and most powerful beings on the planet.

However, as you consider your options, you feel your armor tingle with a... a... thirst. Considering your armor was fused with dragon essence, was this ancient dragon instincts welling up? After all, the one you had slain had gorged itself on mana...

>Use brute force.
>Use Nino.
>Trust the armor.
>Other

>>2854444
>Use both the armor and brute force.

>>2854444
>Use brute force.
>Use Nino.
>Trust the armor.

This is usually the part in the endgame where you just chuck as many bullshit abilities at the final boss before you all die in a blazing inferno

>>2854444
>Trust the armor.

>>2854444
>Trust the armor.

I can't resist such spiciness

>>2854444
>Trust the armor.
Dragon is remembering its elf doujin days.

>>2854444
>>Trust the armor.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35GUTY_Gr14

>>2854444
>Trust the armor.

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>>2854444
You decide to put your trust in your armor, as you charge towards the barrier, brushing past a surprised Niko and Artya as you slam your gauntlets into the barrier.

You feel a surge of feedback as the armor seems to start... drinking the barrier, siphoning the magical energies sustaining it into itself.

Everybody just looks on in shock, even Semiramis herself.

>Roll 1d20

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>2854534
DRAGON TIME

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>2854534

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>2854534
Time to burn I suppose.

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>2854534

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>2854534
Hopefully we don't turn into an actual dragon.

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>2854534

File: Nino 2.png (1.28 MB, 1684x1920)

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Rolled 5, 7, 1 = 13 (3d20)

>>2854534
...

File: Morgan ranger 2.png (82 KB, 619x710)

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Rolled 2, 2, 15 = 19 (3d20)

>>2854551

File: Atalanta 8.jpg (1.06 MB, 961x1369)

1.06 MB JPG

Rolled 8, 19, 19, 3, 12, 20 = 81 (6d20)

>>2854557
,,,

File: Semiramis 3.jpg (91 KB, 1280x720)

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>>2854559
The shield weakens, you can feel it, but it's not draining fast enough.

And Semiramis has had enough. She actually gets up from her throne and raises an arm. Ominous green energy begins coalescing into a an orb.

Nino and Niko fling fireballs and throwing knives at her, but the barrier still has power in it and they glance off.

Morgan then intervenes and dives in, using her newfound brute strength to tackle you out of way just as Semiramis flicks her finger, sending the green orb of crackling energy straight at where you were just standing. The orb explodes in a flash of green lightning, but you and Morgan were thankfully clear.

Atalanta prepares an arrow. Well, more like a ballista bolt, honestly. Carved out of what looked to be a small tree trunk, the heavy arrow flies and impacts right into barrier. It proves to be just a little too much, and the barrier shatters like glass, the shards dissolving into the air.

And that's when Janice and Artya strike, going for...

>The approaching Wardens.
>Semiramis.
>Other

>>2854573
>Semiramis.

>>2854573
>Semiramis.

>>2854573
>Semiramis

>>2854573
>Semiramis.
GEEK THE MAGE!

>>2854573
>>Semiramis.

>>2854573
>Semiramis.

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>>2854573
Both Janice and Artya bolt right at Semiramis, intending to take her out in a quick and sudden blitz attack.

However, Semiramis simply regards them with a look of annoyance.

"I suppose I'll have to resort to using those beasts..." She muses as she raises her other hand and gestures.

And down from the branches plunge two massive beasts. They looked to be some freakish fusion of man and wolf, standing on their hind legs. They wore Elven armor and wielded Elven weapons, their white fur rippling with their movements.

White wolves.

The two beasts immediately interpose themselves between Janice and Artya. Both demihumans don't have any time to hesitate, and they commit to their attack, charging straight into the massive beast wolves, their brawl devolving into gnashing teeth and slashing claws.

"W-w-what are those...?" Morgan pauses trembling.

"Morgan, c'mon, this ain't the time to start spacing out!" Naru grunts.

"Where did she get those?" Atalanta gasps. "This shouldn't be possible."

With the beast wolves defending Semiramis, the Wardens were starting to close in from behind. Naru draws her cleaver, her weapon of last resort. Nino mutters as she casts another spell, while Niko regroups with you.

"Whatever we do, we gotta do it fast!" Niko warns, her dual knives glinting and ready to go.

>No time to plan. Just charge Semiramis.
>Hold off the Wardens until Nino can make something happen.
>Try to knock some sense back into Morgan.
>Get answers from Atalanta.
>Other

>>2854637
>Hold off the Wardens until Nino can make something happen.

>>2854637
>Hold off the Wardens until Nino can make something happen.

>>2854637
>Hold off the Wardens until Nino can make something happen.
>Get answers from Atalanta.
The answering part is honestly just mostly effort on Atalanta's part. So I don't really understand why it had to be it's own choice.

>>2854637
>>Hold off the Wardens until Nino can make something happen.

>>2854637
>Hold off the Wardens until Nino can make something happen.

If we are getting desperate, could we perhaps have Nino put as much magic energy into our armour for a final attack?

File: Nino 12.jpg (71 KB, 882x745)

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Rolled 18, 3, 7 = 28 (3d20)

>>2854637
You immediately take position at the rear of the party, ready to hold off the approaching Wardens. There were four of them that were withing striking range, and you hold your halberd in a defense posture, your armor still belching flame to further deter them from approaching.

Nino meanwhile continues her muttering as she starts to glow.

The Wardens quickly realize Nino is up to something, and they charge, intent on getting past you.

As if you would let that happen.

>Roll 1d20+2

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>2854681
Don't job

Rolled 16 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2854681

Rolled 11 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2854681

Rolled 17 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2854681

File: Nino 13.jpg (178 KB, 1000x1000)

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Rolled 13, 11, 12 = 36 (3d20)

>>2854681
...

File: 68685043_p1.png (536 KB, 952x1300)

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Rolled 19, 17, 2 = 38 (3d20)

>>2854693
...

File: Nino 5.jpg (464 KB, 977x1499)

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>>2854702
The Wardens charge and bring their swords swinging down, but you're able to raise your halberd and block the blows with the shaft, if only just barely. With a mighty push, you throw the Wardens back, but one of them quickly sends a follow up attack, causing both of your weapons to lock together into a stalemated push.

Janice and Artya continue to hold their own against the beast wolves. Morgan still hasn't come to her senses as both Niko and Naru stay close to protect her and Nino in case your first line of defense fails.

Nino unleashes a massive ice lance, sending it flying at Semiramis. The Elven Princess merely raises an arm and the lance shatters against her palm.

"Is that all you can do, girl?" Semiramis chuckles. "Holding yourself back is the last thing you should be doing if you want to face me."

That's when Nino unconsciously grips the magical seal Elias had given you.

"It's not enough..." She mumbles.

>It's time to take some risks.
>You can't let Nino fall to the temptation.
>Other

>>2854709
>It's time to take some risks.

>>2854709
>>It's time to take some risks.

Hopefully, our Dragon Soul can consume some excess magic.

>>2854709
>It's time to take some risks.

>>2854709
>It's time to take some risks.

>>2854709
>>It's time to take some risks.

File: Nino 20.png (3.31 MB, 1684x1920)

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>>2854709
You don't stop Nino as she takes of the magical limiter and raises both her hands in the air, her face scrunched closed from concentration.

This time, Semiramis is taking no chances, powering up a spell of her own, but an hail of arrows from Atalanta keep her on the defensive.

At the same time, the Wardens renew their assault, pressing into you like an unstoppable avalanche, slowly grinding you back.

Whatever Nino intended to do, you hoped it wouldn't doom you all.

>Roll 1d20

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>2854762

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>2854762
Here comes the snow.

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>2854762

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>>2854762
Nino starts to visibly glow with power as she finally unleashes whatever spell she was casting.

And the sky goes dark. Ominous clouds gather overhead and the temperature drops. You don't notice it all thanks to your flaming armor, but frost begins to form on other surfaces, and your companions begin to shiver, their breaths visible in the air.

And that's when it starts to rain massive icicles the size of ballista bolts. The massive projectiles come crashing down, shattering or impaling the might Ancient you are riding on. More smash through the branches and leaves, landing right into the fighting area.

But Nino's control and precision were extraordinary. The icicles were only falling on Semiramis and the Wardens. Those not impaled or crushed the falling ice were forced to fall back. Semiramis aims her arms, and the Ancient follows her commands, raising its mighty hands and clamping them directly over the Elven princess, shielding her from harm.

Meanwhile, Janice and Artya continue to tear at their opponents in the vicious melee. You honestly can't tell which side is winning, if at all.

But Nino's spell had achieved its aim. It had pushed Semiramis' bodyguards back and left an opening.

>Charge Semiramis.
>Tell Nino to throw another spell.
>Other

>>2854800
>>Charge Semiramis.

>>2854800
>Charge Semiramis.

>>2854800
>Charge Semiramis.

>>2854800
>Charge Semiramis.

>>2854800
>>Charge Semiramis.

Should we brand our Templar mark onto her face?

File: Emperor's_Champion.jpg (76 KB, 702x932)

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Rolled 18, 3, 19, 15, 18 = 73 (5d20)

>>2854800
You take the opportunity to charge at Semiramis, your armor clanking and burning as you advance. Niko hangs just behind you to cover her own approach while Atalanta and Nino continue to fling arrows and magic missiles at Semiramis.

But nothing from Morgan. Was she still thrown off by the presence of those white beast wolves?

Regardless, you couldn't afford to stop and ask. Semiramis was already taking measures to protect herself, now directing the limbs of the Ancient itself to attack you.

>Roll 1d20+2

Rolled 1 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2854836

Rolled 8 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2854836

Rolled 6 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2854836

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>>2854836
Um, well, those rolls are not exactly great.

Would you like to use your one FATE POINT for a reroll?

>Y
>N

>>2854844
>Y

>>2854844
>Y

>>2854844
yes.

>>2854844
>Y

>>2854844
Y

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>>2854844
>FATE POINT USED!
>No points remain!

All right! Let's hope this reroll turns out well!

>Roll 1d20

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>2854870

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>2854870

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>2854870
Fuck Morgan get it together.

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>2854870
Clutch?

>>2854870
Just saying, for someone all gung ho about making up for a previous failure, she's shitting the bed at a rather crucial time here

Oh well. Maybe us getting our shit slapped will reach her.

File: Atalanta 5.jpg (133 KB, 989x837)

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Rolled 5, 18, 6, 4, 17, 10, 11, 19, 8 = 98 (9d20)

>>2854870
....

File: Morgan ranger 9.png (661 KB, 879x1349)

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Rolled 19, 12, 19 = 50 (3d20)

>>2854897
...

File: Semiramis injured.png (1.2 MB, 1280x720)

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>>2854899
Countless wooden arms plunged down from the sky, ensnaring and wrapping around you like tentacles, lifting you up and immobilizing you. Even your flaming armor seemed to have little to no effect, as more and more branches wrapped around you to smother the flame.

You weren't the only one ensnared, though. Unfortunately, the rest of your party was scooped up as well, restrained and lifted into the air and left stranded and struggling.

"Pity, you did come somewhat close." Semiramis sighs as she slumps back into her throne. Her eyes shift over to the side, where she could see that her two white beast wolves weren't in such good shape, lying in ppols of their own blood, barely alive.

"And you ruined my two favorite pets." She sighs. "Perhaps I could use Morgan-"

Semiramis never finishes the sentence as an arrow plunges itself into her chest.

"W-what?!" Semiramis wheezes. Blood spurts from the wound, but as she tries to get up, three more arrows zoom in. One hits her in the gut while the other two penetrate her hands, pinning her to her own throne.

"Should have kept a closer eye." Morgan growls as she emerges from the shadow of a branch, almost completely hidden from view. "I was waiting for you to drop your guard like that."

"Imp...ossible." Semiramis gasps as she struggles to break free, but fails.

"Go get her, Morgan!" Nino cheers.

"Focus on getting us out of this!" Naru snaps. She was noticeably being held upside down.

Rather than help any of you, though, Morgan drops down to the ground and slowly and deliberately walks towards the pinned Semiramis, like a predator toying with cornered prey.

Was she planning on confronting her alone...?

>Let Morgan do her thing.
>You need to break out and back her up.
>Other

>>2854911
>You need to break out and back her up.

>>2854911
>You need to break out and back her up.

Morgan earning those headpats

>>2854911
>You need to break out and back her up.

As much as we may not like it, we need her alive. Put a chain around her neck instead.

>>2854911
>You need to break out and back her up.

>>2854911
>>You need to break out and back her up.

File: 1497158788269.jpg (48 KB, 736x1044)

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>>2854911
You were afraid of not only what Semiramis might do to Morgan if she was alone, but also the possibility of what Morgan would do to Semiramis if you left her alone. With Semiramis out of commission, though, she can't give the Ancient additional orders, so the branches holding you in place loosen and weaken, giving you an opportunity.

>Roll 1d20+3

Rolled 3 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>2854937

Rolled 11 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>2854937

Rolled 6 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>2854937

File: Morgan ranger 11.png (783 KB, 939x1326)

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>>2854937
You manage to break out of the branches holding you and tumble down to the ground. Thankfully, you don't fall flat on your face, but you stumble as you land rather awkwardly. Getting back up, you run over to the throne, where you could see Morgan practically throttling Semiramis.

"WHAT ARE THEY?" Morgan shouts. "Where did they come from?"

Semiramis only responds with a wheezing laugh as she coughs up blood.

"I found them on the side of the road, just like wild dogs like you."

Looks like she was fully intent on taunting Morgan, even if it would be her last act.

>Pull Morgan away before she does something foolish.
>Let Morgan vent her frustrations.
>Other

>>2854952
>Pull Morgan away before she does something foolish.

We probably have been there before dealing with Orcs and our backstory.

>>2854952
>Let Morgan vent her frustrations.

>>2854952
>>Pull Morgan away before she does something foolish.

>>2854952
>Let Morgan vent her frustrations.

>>2854952
>>Pull Morgan away before she does something foolish.

We can put her on a leash and strip her naked for the peasants to throw rotten vegetables at her later, or something.