>>3105196
>>3093205
“How bad are things down here, exactly?” Henry asked.

“Well… let’s say that I’ve begun noticing the effects of the Grand Seraphs… disappearance.” Rosa muttered.

Right, her ‘disappearance’.

“Anything specific?” Henry asked,

“Some of the weaker wards and spells have begun to get… patchy.” Rosa continued. “I can see where things are going, it’s not good. As for the church, still no word on what they’re going to do about it. We had a visit from our local bishop, just to make sure everything is okay. I’ve noticed a lot more ghiest activity as well, something is stirring them up. I’m troubled, but hopeful. The angels aren’t going to let this go on forever, right?” Rosa said, more asking herself than anyone else.

“I’m sure someone has a plan.” Henry replied, nervously.

“I don’t think so, nobody really has a handle on things, the Solarch is off on his tour of the countryside. Everyone’s just trying to get a handle on things, I think. I’m not all that important so I really don’t get told much.” Rosa said.

“Oh don’t be hard on yourself, you’re important to us.” Charles said.

“Thanks, well, the Lunarch… he’s …. Well, I don’t know what he’s been up to exactly, from what I’ve heard he’s just shut himself away from everyone except a few inquisitors. I’ve also heard that the angel of Dawn has been tracking down demons out near the borders. That’s the story the uppers are giving us, anyways. Nobody really has a plan yet, and the angels, they’ve stuck to the city, instead of defending the weaker areas. I don’t think that’ll go well...”
“Well, enough about that, I had something important I wanted to ask you Rosa.” Henry said.

“Oh?!” Rosa said, a bit flustered. “W-what is it?”

“Would you be willing to mentor Charles in white mana? I’ve no skill for it I’m afraid.”

“I… um… yes, I suppose I could.” Rosa said, the disappointment only slight in her voice.

“Wait don’t I get a say?” Charles asked.

“No.” Henry said. “I need you to be able to use every color you’ve got. Otherwise you aren’t living up to your potential, right?”

“Right…” Charles said.

“So perhaps we could discuss this in detail in a week or two?” Rosa asked. “I’m a tad busy at the moment… with a few things…”

Decisions:
1. “Could you do it as a favor for me?”
2. “Come on, after all we’ve been through you can’t make a little time?”
3. “Alright, if you say so.

>>3105201
Forgot to remove the prompt, ignore it since it was voted on last thread

>>3105201
>Alright, if you say so.

>>3105201
“What’s the problem? I can always help out a friend.” Henry said, smiling with a faux friendliness.

“O-oh no… I shouldn’t have opened my big mouth.” Rosa said, glancing up towards the church door, her eyes betraying her desperation to be anywhere else.

“You might as well just come out with it already, Henry’s curiosity has been piqued.” Johnny said, not all too reassuringly.

“I… well I guess it’s you so it won’t be a problem… well, my tutor sent me a letter, for the first time in … well how long has it been… nine years almost if I remember the date right.” Ophelia said. “She’s not in the best position politically let’s say, but I’ve tried to keep up with her best I can, I visit her sometimes when I’m traveling by the coast. Well, it’s just I’m worried if she’s alright I guess, I dunno.” Rosa said. “Maybe I’m just being silly.”

Decisions:
1. “Probably nothing to worry about.”
2. “So what was in the letter?”
3. “You’re never silly, you’re Ms. Serious.”
4. “I didn’t realize you were taught, I just thought you came out of the womb with the healing touch.”
5. “Maybe I could help you?”
6. (write in)

>Alright here is the real prompt, ~ Lorekeeper

>>3105240
>3. “You’re never silly, you’re Ms. Serious.”
But seriously, we're friends and friends help each other.

>>3105258
writing

>>3105240
“You’re never silly, you’re Ms. Serious.” Henry said.

“I’m who?” Rosa asked, dumbfounded.

“Even I get it.” Charles said, “It’s a joke?”

“Give her a minute.” Johnny said.

It was fascinating to watch as Rosa’s expression went from abject confusion to utter disgust in the span of twenty seconds as she realized the full extent of the horrible pun.

“But seriously, we’re friends and friends help each other?” Henry said.

“Just friends?” Rosa muttered before snapping to attention. “N-no its no trouble I’m just worried about the old dear, but she’s far tougher than I am that’s for sure, she’s fine. It’s nothing to worry yourselves over!” Rosa said.

“I uh…” Henry said, “Well… yeah, alright then.”

Decision by Henry:
1. “Look maybe I should talk to you in private for a minute, yeah?”
2. “Well it’s been great but I really gotta run, have a good day Rosa!”
3. “Please help me Johnny…”
4. (write in)

>>3105359
>1. “Look maybe I should talk to you in private for a minute, yeah?”
Pain train incoming boys

>>3105359
>2. “Well it’s been great but I really gotta run, have a good day Rosa!”

I am distancing myself from this situation. Please just dont get us dead or lose the healer

>>3105359
>1. “Look maybe I should talk to you in private for a minute, yeah?”
No pain
No train

>>3105359
>1. “Look maybe I should talk to you in private for a minute, yeah?”
Hoo boy
Brace for impact

>>3106287
>>3106200
>>3105383
time to pull the pin on this grenade

>>3105359
"Look, maybe I should talk to you in private for a minute, yeah?" Henry said.

Rosa looked uneasy, the woman glanced at Charles and Johnny before slowly shifting her view back to Henry.

"If you think thats wise Henry..." Rosa said.

"Well, yeah."

"Come on Charles, they have a birdbath behind the church, I think I saw a couple of robins playing in the water." Johnny said.

"Really? The red ones right?" Charles said, quickly getting up and following closely behind Johnny.

The two made their way towards the side of the church, rounded the corner, and were then out of view.

"I have an idea of what this is about..." Rosa said, glancing at the ground.

Decisions:
1. "You have an idea?"
2. "Look, you're a good friend, and I think we should keep things that way."
3. "I can't be with a healer, it just ain't right."
4. "I'm sorry for leading you on like that, I didn't know what I was fucking doing."
5. (Write in)

>>3109611
>1. "You have an idea?"
I AM NO GOOD AT THESE KINDS OF DECISIONS

>>3109611
>4. "I'm sorry for leading you on like that, I didn't know what I was fucking doing."

>>3109611

1. "You have an idea?"

>>3109611
>1. "You have an idea?"
Lets how far away are how close is she

>>3109611
>Rosa, I knew that my life situation will never let me be with anyone but I still lead you on. I'm sorry. There is nothing either of us can do about it and I can't put you in more danger by appearing close to you.

>Everything is full of fuck and it ain't going to change

>>3109611
>1. "You have an idea?"
Equally clueless.

>>3109655
>>3109722
>>3109750
>>3109805
>>3109917
>>3109959
writing

>>3109611
“You have an idea?” Henry asked, feeling a knot in his gut.

He fucking hated this, he shouldn’t be doing this to Rosa, why the fuck had he gotten attached to a member of the church. The woman was obnoxious, rude, and rash when it came to the church, and yet he had a fondness for her. Both Johnny and the rational part of his brain were in agreement though, no good could come of them being together. As much as he wished it could be different. God was a fucking asshole, giving him this woman who he could never be with.

“You’re a criminal aren’t you…” Rosa said, murmuring. “I…I mean, it makes sense right?” Rosa asked. “M-maybe you aren’t, but you’re a criminal and you want to admit it to me? M-maybe I can help, right?” Rosa said, panicking.

Decisions:
1. “Yes… but you can’t help, I can’t be with you Rosa, at least not like that.”
2. “No, that isn’t what this is about Rosa, I want to break things off, I can’t continue on like this.”
3. “I don’t want you getting caught up in things, it’s for your own safety.”
4. “Why the hell do you think that?”
5. (write in)

>>3111432
>5. (write in)
Laugh
Have a good healthy laugh
"A criminal eh? and what 'crimes" might I have done?"

>>3111432
This >>3111443
Lighten the tension, deflect for a bit, get our thoughts in order

>>3111445
But what are our thoughts?!?

>>3111453
>>3111445
>>3111443
writing

>>3111432
Henry laughed, the woman wasn't even wrong. But he couldn't let her know that. He laughed even after the joke had faded in his mind, and then responded to a flustered Rosa.

"A criminal eh? And what 'crimes' might I have done?'

"I... don't treat me like that." Rosa said, figiting about. "I just, you're you. You squirreled the heir away, away from everyone, nobody knows who you are, nobody at the Yorkshire camp did anyways. You're a mystery, and mysterys aren't something to be taken lightly yes?"

"What are you even on about?" Henry said.

"You don't seem to care about your own life, that much is obvious, and well, the only sort of person I've ever met like that was a criminal, a murderer." Rosa said. "You don't mind death in the slightest, I realized that the moment you got out of that bed back in New Haven, although I became sure of it after Blaise. That... that's not normal Henry. You remind me of the criminals I cared for back in Avignon's prisons, people who didn't belong anywhere else but in those cells, some of them seemed to be fine with it even. I don't know what you've done, or even when, but I know you've done something, Henry. I'd like you to come clean with me, please."

"You have no idea what you are talking about Rosa." Henry said, chuckling to himself, this was a whole lot of nothing. He just had to smile and nod while the woman spat out a whole lot of hot air.

Decisions:
1. "Honeslty, I stopped caring about my own life a long fuckin time ago, cause I figured I was already dead, and that remained true until real recently, till I met the kid."
2. "Life ends in death don't it? Doesn't matter how much time's spent in between."
3. "Rosa, don't worry so much about it alright?"
4. "Come here you silly woman." *hug the silly woman*
5. *come clean with her* (write in on how much you want to reveal)
6. "The reason I came here today was to break things off with you Rosa, I can't pussy foot around this anymore. We don't belong together."

>>3113713
>1. "Honeslty, I stopped caring about my own life a long fuckin time ago, cause I figured I was already dead, and that remained true until real recently, till I met the kid."
I am still bad at decisions

>>3113713
this >>3113722

>>3113806
>>3113722
writing

>>3113722
Follow up line
"I'm just glad I have met some wonderful people in the meantime."

>>3113840
This too

>>3113841
>>3113840
>>3113806
>>3113722
writing wholesome edgy

>>3113713
“Honestly I stopped caring about my own life a long fuckin time ago, cause I figured I was already as good as dead. That remained true until recently, when I met the kid… and you for what it’s worth.” Henry said.

“Henry…” Rosa murmured, biting her lip nervously.

“I’m just happy I’ve met some wonderful people in the meantime.”

Rosa didn’t know what to say, and from what Henry could tell she looked shocked.

“Maybe I can’t do anything after all.” Rosa said, after some time. “I wanted to help, the second I saw you I saw a man in immense pain, and I wanted to heal him. I don’t think I can.” Rosa said.

The woman was misty eyed now. God damn it all. Before he could say anything else Rosa hugged him, drawing him close.

“I think I know exactly why we crossed path’s Henry, you’re just as broken a person as I am. I think god meant it to be so. It makes sense, in a silly sort of way. I… I um… thank you.”

Decisions:
1. “What are you doing?!”
2. *Hug back awkwardly*
3. *hug back sincerely.*
4. “I guess I’m a lucky bastard to have you aren’t I?”
5. “What are you talking about, you’re a perfectly normal healer.”

>>3113940
>5. “What are you talking about, you’re a perfectly normal healer.”
Shall we pry a little bit?

>>3113940
yes >>3113953

>>3113972
>>3113953
writing

>>3113940
“What are you talking about, you’re a perfectly normal healer.” Henry said, still taken aback by her outburst.

“You don’t understand, how could you… I uh…” Rosa said, burying her face into Henry’s chest. “I’ve only told a few people, ever. I uh I don’t know… I’m scared Henry, I need you to promise me something.” Rosa said looking Henry in the eyes.

The woman was terrified, utterly and completely. More so then when Blaise was being attacked. The woman seemed so small now, frail even. Was she… was she one of them? No, probably not, she couldn’t be, he would’ve teased that out by now.

“What do you want me to promise?” Henry asked.

“That you won’t leave me all alone, I don’t, I don’t want to be alone again.”

“You have abbot and Gregory don’t you?” Henry asked.

“That’s not what I mean, and you know that.” Rosa said. “I don’t want you to leave me like if I tell you the truth.”

Decisions:
1. “Look, you don’t have to tell me, its fine Rosa.”
2. “What could be so bad, why are you getting like this?”
3. *say nothing*
4. “Look, you’re just riled up alright? You’re probably still processing the journey we had and worrying about things, just calm down.”
5. (write in)

>>3113989
>5. (write in)
"I'll be your friend till the end."
Unless you're associated with a certain FUCKHEAD what ever thr fuck that demon's name is.

>>3113989
This >>3113994 but also
>Walk to the apple tree and sit there with her.
>"Go ahead, we have time. Tell me what you need to tell me."
>(Inwardly think "Can't possibly be as bad as what I went through, but you never know...")

>>3113997
This is also good, supportin

>>3114001
>>3113997
>>3113994
writing

“I’ll be here for you till the end.” Henry said, returning the hug and holding her head to his chest.

For once in his fucking life he wasn’t going to lose the things he cared about, and god damn it he cared about this stupid woman.

Rosa was desperately trying to regain her composure, breathing in and out in rhythm and softly singing in between. Henry realized it was the angelic language, so probably some sort of prayer.

He glanced over at the apple tree and hatched a plan. He lifted the woman up, and gently carried her over to the tree. He sat crosslegged with her in his lap. Rosa laid her head on his chest and made herself comfortable. She didn’t make any snide remarks or anything of the sort. She was trying to work up her courage, and Henry didn’t know what to make of it.

“I…god help me…um.” Rosa said.

“Go ahead Rosa, we have time, tell me what you need to say.” Henry said.

“I, I’m barren Henry.” Rosa finally said.

“What?” Henry asked.

“Infertile, I can’t have children, when I was young I waited for my first bleeding, but it never came… my family didn’t even bother with me after that… they just, they barely even considered me their sister or their daughter anymore, left me to die. I… I ran away, I don’t know how I survived that trip, I just… don’t leave me please. Don’t leave me… w-when we walked through town I was so happy… it was like I was a normal woman with a chance to have a family, I just, don’t leave me please. I don’t want to be alone again.”

“Rosa…” Henry said.

“I don’t care if you’re a criminal or whatever, I don’t care what you’ve done or who you’ve hurt. Please just don’t leave me.” Rosa said, tears flowing freely. “The church took me in, Abbot took me in, but I never told him that I was a useless woman, but the other sisters always knew, they hated me, they knew I was a useless woman. I can’t have a family, I can’t do anything right.”

Rosa broke down after that, her speech devolving into a series of a prayers, desperate begging, and utter nonsense.

Decisions:
1. *Hug her tightly*
2. “You weren’t kidding were you.”
3. “Is that all?”
4. “I’ve been through way worse than a lack of bodily function. I’m angry you even thought to bring this up.”
5. “I won’t leave you Rosa.”
6. (write in)

>>3114022
>1. *Hug her tightly*
>"You might not be able to have a family, but you have us. And we won't leave you."
>Then look seriously in her eyes. Try not to have hope but have some hope anyway.
>"But are you absolutely sure you don't care about what I might have done? What hell I might have gone through to survive up to now? Are you prepared to hear that from me, whatever it may be?"

>>3114059
This only if we don't tell her about us being a necromancer.

>>3114059
>>3114082
writing

>>3114022
Henry hugged Rosa tightly, and Rosa hugged him back, sobbing all the while. The woman held him like a drowning man held a plank of wood. Rosa just needed someone, anyone to hold onto, and Henry was there to help.

“You might not be able to have a family, but you have us, and we won’t leave you. I won’t leave you.” Henry said.

God fucking damn it, she’d caught him hadn’t she. But for some reason Henry didn’t mind. He didn’t care if she was a member of the church. She was Rosa, she was his member of the church. God damn it he really cared for her. This silly stupid woman, barren or no he figured he was stuck with her now. He didn’t mind it at all.

He waited for her to calm down, which took several minutes. He looked her seriously in the eyes, until Rosa looked away nervously.

“I… I really said everything, I lost my composure, I’m so sorry I just..”

“No that not it.” Henry said, still holding the woman in his arms.

He tried to not have any hope but he still held a little regardless.

“Are you absolutely sure that you don’t care about what I might have done, who I am? What I’ve had to do to survive this long? Are you ready to hear about it all, whatever it may be?”

“I know you’re a hero, you don’t need to say anything more to me.” Rosa said, smiling. “You’re my Hero.”

Henry braced himself, he really was going to say it wasn’t he, he couldn’t hide it from her, she deserved to know, didn’t she?
Would she really be safe if he told her? Would THEY know? How would she react?

He glanced up and noticed that Johnny was peering around the corner of the church, watching them. Charles was nowhere to be found but Henry figured he was around somewhere, probably still playing behind the church.

Johnny simply stared at the two of them, and Henry could see the man’s fists were clenched. He probably was infuriated that Henry hadn’t broken things off with Rosa, he probably thought that she was a liability to him.

Decisions:
1. *Tell her nothing about yourself, what are you even doing?*
2. *Tell her a little bit, bits and pieces* (write in optional)
3. *tell her you are a necromancer*
4. *tell her who Johnny is*
5. *Tell her about your childhood*
6. *tell her everything*
7. (write in)

Okay.
>cannot drop Rosa the big redpills here, because church has spies and they are out in the open
>cannot drop Rosa the big redpills here, because she will scream real loud and draw attention
>cannot drop Rosa the big redpills here, because church building has no reliable soundproof room
>cannot drop Rosa the big redpills in a soundproof spellcasting chamber at a mage guild place, because mage guilds must have ways to spy on in their chambers
>cannot drop Rosa the big redpills in Henry's scenic sewer home, because she will find the necromancy tome and dead bodies and dank necromancy equipment out in plain sight
>cannot drop Rosa the big redpills through writing the important stuff on a piece of paper, because clairvoyants and scrying exist and will be able to know what Henry does regardless of if we burn the paper afterward or not
So unless there's a place Henry can go to where scrying cannot reach and is also soundproofed, I doubt Henry can tell Rosa anything here. Not right now. Also holy fuck this is literally full-on anti-spying anti-info-theft countermeasures like real life shit, but with actual magic. Fuuuuuuuuuuck.

Best course of action might simply be to say he can't tell her here in the open, that this is a very real and very dangerous case of life and death, and that unless there's a reliable place to tell her, he cannot tell her period. And if Henry ever does, it cannot be here out in the open and on church grounds. Henry can easily and logically rationalize it as "She DOES deserve to know, but I'm not hiding it from her. I'm hiding it from THEM and their spies, who I KNOW for a fact are all over the fucking place.
>inb4 Rosa does in fact know a suitable place for it that's available at like 3 in the afternoon

>>3114123
Show her some of our black mana tell her that we dont fill in well with church teachings. 100% would end on sun tree idk i dont want to live her with nothing or just tell her we dont know if we are redy

>>3114567
learn to type normally first, bro

>>3114625
nah

>>3114123
>6. *tell her everything*
BUT ONLY if we can be totally SURE we are alone and isolated as >>3114160 mentions.

Otherwise warn her about how it is a matter of life and death, but only that, we will spill all the beans when we are absolutely sure it is safe to do so...

May the gods have mercy on us all...

>>3115488
Dude, we can't overwhelm her like this. It'd be better to invite her to the sewer home and start of with how Henry's a necromancer first, then Johnny skeleton reveal, then the full backstory.

I guess the prudent option would be
>"Rosa, this is a matter of life and death. It's not something I can tell you here, out in the open. If you know a place that's soundproofed and scryproofed, then that would work. I might know a place, but if you know one then that would be better."
>Seriously consider inviting this woman to the sewer home just to tell her everything safely. Become embarrassed internally at having to invite a woman to the sewer home as precaution against the spies everywhere.
This is TENTATIVELY my vote, but I'd rather hear some second opinions too

>>3114123
>Lose composure and have an internal meltdown because our need to keep it secret on pain of death and suffering for everyone and desire to tell her, to tell someone, will clash forever. And then the paranoia sets in. Maybe Johnny isn't the only one watching? They're watching him right, they know who he is, aren't they dying to know what he's doing at a church?

>I can only tell you in a completely magic- and soundproof room and only if no one ever see is entry or leave it

>>3115488
So, lets tell a devout religious person that we are not only a necromancer, a being that should be killed on sight, but we were cursed by a demon work for vampires and do other heresy on a daily basis; this sounds perfectly reasonable.
>>3115680
I do like the paranoia.
>>3114123
Lets tell her our child hood, but leave out the demon and names of the cult and anyone that we know is in the cult or escaped.

>>3115680
>Lose composure
I like it
>>3115796
>demon and names of the cult and anyone that we know is in the cult or escaped.
Isn't it that contract with demon prevents us from doing it?

>>3115809
>Isn't it that contract with demon prevents us from doing it?
Doesn't matter, keep the names out of shit so she wouldn't accidentally say the wrong thing to the wrong someone and end up dead or worse.

>>3115809
I think so. Or it just says "tell anyone and they die, and you too, your naughty boy"

We can tell her that the whole family was kidnapped and that we had to murder our parents and torture our brother while the captors kept him alive. We made it out but we are never safe and neither is anyone close to us.

Unless you think this will trigger the alarm? Besides, she's an idiot but I don't think she's going to fucking pry or dig into a confession like that. That'd take a level of tactlessness and cluelessness I can't even begin to fathom

>>3115827
Agreeing with this.

>>3114123
Backing >>3115680

Rolled 86, 51, 71 = 208 (3d100)

>>3115502
>>3115680
>>3115796
>>3115809
>>3115816
>>3115827
>>3115831
>>3115839
writing

>>3114123
“I… I’ve never actually told anyone this before Rosa.” Henry said. “But I feel I need to tell you, I think you deserve to know… I…”

He saw Johnny’s expression darken considerably, the skeleton was shaking now. The skeleton was one part disbelief and one part fury. Henry had never seen Johnny this worked up before. He realized that Johnny might not have been the only one watching. What the fuck was he doing, this woman didn’t need to have this foisted on her, and yet he couldn’t lie to her.

Why did fate have to torture him like this, a woman actually willing to be with him and he couldn’t even trust her with a little secret. A big secret, the biggest worst secret imaginable. How would she even react?

“I… oh gods, heh, it’s like we’ve had our roles reversed.” Henry said weakly.

Rosa responded by wrapping her arms around him and pulling herself closer. She was warm, warmer than the sunlight was. He liked that.

Johnny had begun to move towards them, murder in his eyes. Henry didn’t know what he was going to do. Johnny’s leg’s quaked a bit, he was wavering, what was he trying to do? Was he trying to break them apart before Henry could say anything?

Johnny said nothing. Henry noticed at that point that he had a hand on his blade.

Was he going to cut Rosa down? Was he that willing to keep the secret, keep him safe? What was his goal here? What the fuck?

“Johnny, I command you to stop.” Henry whispered.

“What did you say?” Rosa asked.

>>3116229

Johnny froze in his tracks. Henry glared at the skeleton. He couldn’t believe the man had acted like that, towards him, towards Rosa.

Fuck it, he had nothing to lose on this.

“When I was young Rosa, a group of men came to my home, slaughtered my parents, kidnapped me and my brother. I was… kept alive for god knows why. I was forced to torture my brother. I eventually worked up the nerve to kill him, to make it so he wouldn’t suffer. We made it out, me and another kid. I… I’m never safe, I always have to check behind my back. Once I… I thought I’d met someone who mattered to me, someone I could spend the rest of my life with. She… well it didn’t end well for either of us, and … I don’t want you to have the same happen to you, I want to protect you.”

“Henry..” Rosa said, shocked. Her eyes were wide with fear, but she didn’t try to pull away from Henry.

He couldn’t quite understand why, but at the same time he kind of did.

Johnny fell to his knees, as if he’d been struck from behind. He grasped at clumps of soil feebly. Henry couldn’t hear it, but the skeleton was whispering to himself, begging god to make sure it didn’t happen again.

Henry didn’t know this, nor did he care.

“I… who were these people Henry? Were they a cult? Do they still exist, maybe I can pull some strings, m-maybe…” Rosa asked.

“No its all past now Rosa.” Henry said. “I’ve done things I can’t be forgiven for.”

“God can forgive you Henry.” Rosa said. “I don’t need to.”

Decisions:
1. Ignore Johnny for now
2. Hold Rosa tightly, just spend some time with her, and have Johnny walk Charles home before it gets late.
3. “I think you were right about god wanting us to meet, Rosa.”
4. “We need to stop getting all depressed like this when we meet.”
5. “Come on, maybe we could get something to eat together.”
6. (write in)

>>3116240
>“We need to stop getting all depressed like this when we meet.”
then
>"Is there a mageproof, soundproof place we could go to that you know? I don't trust telling you details in the open."
but if there is not
>Get Johnny and Charles and walk Rosa to the sewer. Watch our backs the entire way there.
Go all in. No suffering, no gain.

>>3116275
Why are we taking her to the fucking murder lair?
THIS IS THE CREEPIEST and most heritical thing for a church person THING WE CAN DO
Lets immediately ask her to take care of charles for a bit, while we settle johnny. We can come back after we make sure Johnny isn't gonna go murderhobo on anyone.

>>3116307
This

>>3116307
Hell, ask her to take care of charles while we are at the party, and hope shit don't go bad, and if they do, she now has the child she always wanted AND charles has a good caretaker.

>>3116317
>>3116331
>>3116307
>>3116275
writing

File: Spoiler Image (132 KB, 432x480)

132 KB PNG

I feel as if we made a big mistake.

>>3116240
Henry sat for a moment longer, soaking in the moment. Johnny had retreated back the corner of the building where he waited for Henry to make a move.

“Alright Rosa, come on.” Henry said.

“God we’re a just a big mess aren’t we.” Rosa said, rolling off Henrys lap and stretching out on the ground. “I feel better now that I’ve told someone, and he didn’t run..” Rosa said, giggling a bit, then laughing.

“I need to think about what you’ve told me, regardless, Henry.” Rosa said. “I shouldn’t be so happy, but I am.”

“Right, well, can you look after Charles for a day or so for me? I’m leaving town for a day on business and I think that’d be a good opportunity to teach him some basic white mana techniques.”

“That… sounds lovely.” Rosa said, jumping up and walking towards the back of the building where Charles presumably was.

“Oh Johnny, I hope you weren’t watching us this entire time… its rude.”

“I wouldn’t even consider it.” Johnny said with a kind inflection in his voice.

After Rosa was out of view Johnny stormed out of the church, muttering something vile to himself. The man had really been set off.

Henry would have to deal with him now, he couldn’t have the man off his game with so much at stake during this party.

“So you’re leaving then?” Charles asked. Running up to Henry’s side.

“Yeah kid, got that party to attend, and if I… eh… if I run late treat Rosa well won’t you.”

“You won’t, you’ll be fine, I know it!” Charles said, “Did you kiss her?” Charles asked. “She’s really really happy right now.”

“God no, we’re in a church Charles, people might be watching.” Henry said, half-jokingly.

After a bit more idle chatter between him and Charles, they said their goodbyes and Henry departed the Holy Grounds. Charles and Rosa heading back into the church to prepare for the evening’s mass.

Johnny simply stared at Henry, saying nothing as the two walked back home.

Decisions:
1. “What the fuck is your problem?”
2. “Let’s pretend that your little outburst didn’t happen.”
3. “Never raise a hand to hurt Rosa, ever, that’s an order.”
4. “I know why you’re mad, I know I might’ve put her at risk, but I want to be happy for once in my fucking life god damn it.”
5. “It’s going to be fine, I’m sure of it.” (lie)
6. (write in)

>>3116415
>6. (write in)
5. “It’s going to be fine, I’m sure of it.” (NOLIE)

>>3116415
>"First off, never raise a hand to hurt Rosa, ever. That’s an order.”
>"Second, it’s going to be fine, I’m sure of it. No one else in the vicinity to catch anything we said.” (NOLIE)
>“I know why you’re mad. I know I might’ve put her at risk, but I want to be happy and relieved for once in my fucking life, god damn it. And don't tell me you didn't feel happy seeing her feel the same way.”

>>3116433
>>"Second, it’s going to be fine, I’m sure of it. No one else in the vicinity to catch anything we said.” (NOLIE)
>>“I know why you’re mad. I know I might’ve put her at risk, but I want to be happy and relieved for once in my fucking life, god damn it. And don't tell me you didn't feel happy seeing her feel the same way.”
This I like
>"First off, never raise a hand to hurt Rosa, ever. That’s an order.”
This is a little iffy. I don't want to suddenly start taking his freedoms, that's a path to a bad end with him.

>>3116449
Okay then
>>3116415
COMPLETELY DISREGARD my vote for
>"First off, never raise a hand to hurt Rosa, ever. That’s an order.”

>>3116415
>6. (write in)
>You were right Johnny, I'm such a selfish piece of shit
>I just sign her death sentence didn't I
>5. “It’s going to be fine, I’m sure of it.” (lie)

>>3116415
>Why is it so hard to do the right thing Johnny?

>>3116424
>>3116433
>>3116449
>>3116453
>>3116473
>>3116620
writing

>>3116415
“It’s going to be fine, I’m sure of it, no one else in the vicinity to catch anything we said, I checked.”

“On that note I believe you are correct, but that’s not what I am concerned about Henry.” Johnny calmly replied.

“I know why you’re mad, and I know I might’ve put her at risk, but I want to be happy and relieved for once in my fucking life god damn it. Don’t tell me you didn’t feel happy seeing her feel the same way.”

“I have mixed feelings about all of this Henry, I tried to make a difference while I still could.”

“By killing her.” Henry replied.

“This is going to end with your death, her death, and likely a lot of other people’s deaths Henry, I can’t stop it now.” Johnny replied. “It’s not that you told someone, it’s who you told. Do you truly think Rosa will be happy with such a simple explanation? Do you think they won’t find out? We need to contact Luther, maybe he can help us remove the memories from her before it’s too late, and hopefully the man will be wise enough to not say anything about it.”

“I’m not doing that Johnny.” Henry said, “You’re right about me, I’m a selfish piece of shit, but I want to be happy damn it, and that woman makes me happy for some fucking reason.”

“You’re going to cause her death Henry.” Johnny replied. “In all likelihood what I was doing would’ve been the most painless way out for her.”

“Don’t say another fucking word about this” Henry said. “I… I did sign her death sentence didn’t I…”

“I wouldn’t know.” Johnny replied. “I’m not allowed to speak on it.”

“It wasn’t an order!” Henry said. “Come on I’m not going to force you to not say your opinion.”

>>3117914
“Of course.” Johnny replied. “To be honest, if I have to sacrifice the woman to keep you alive I will Henry. If it means keeping everyone else in the city alive I will do it. I won’t do it unless I absolutely have to, but I want you to understand it might become a possibility if she tries going to the church with this information, as I think she will. She’s going to start asking questions.”

“And I’m willing to give her answers, slowly and controlled. I’m sure I can get her to understand.”

“Are you really sure or do you just want this to work so badly you’re willing to overlook the facts?” Johnny asked. “But what’s done is done, nothing either of us can really do about it now. We need to prepare for this deathtrap Vermillion has you walking into.”

“Right, well. Getting out of deathtraps is something I excel in don’t I?”

The two walked in silence into the second ring of the city, passing by groups of people heading home for the evening. A couple of white mana ghiests flickered into view in a couple of places, barely able to hold on to the material world while the sun was just barely up.

“I understand exactly how you feel Henry, and I know where this path leads.” Johnny replied. “I hope you don’t hate me for what I try to do, to keep you and everyone else safe. It’s not a job anyone wants.”

“I know bud, I know. But I’d rather live for once in my life. I’ve been deader than the corpses I’ve worked on for so long, and back at that church… with her, I felt happy. I want to feel happy again.”

“I know Henry, I know.” Johnny replied.

Decisions: (pick one)
1. Check in on Ophelia
2. Head down to Nessie’s bar for a drink
3. See if you can catch Larry around before you have to sleep
4. *say something to Johnny* (write in)

>>3117921
>2. Head down to Nessie’s bar for a drink
Make it a strong one.

>>3117921
This >>3117924 but invite Ophelia

>>3117926
Oh gods why

>>3117929
Because mentally relaxing before tomorrow's stressful party mission

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>3117929
>>3117926
>>3117924
COINFLIP ON OPHELIA

>>3117945
Well, I was gonna go and say sure bring her on a before mission party, cause we might be dead and not be able to celebrate afterwards, but you went ahead and flipped a coin.

>>3117947
well alright, why not then.

>>3117921
The duo stopped back home for a while, Ophelia was reading a novel when they found her, one that Henry didn’t own. When questioned about this she said she’d taken a trip topside and bought one from a store with some of the money she’d managed to squirrel away from her time working with the duke back in Grutzberg. She also stated that she wasn’t a shut in and DID get out from time to time. Which led nicely into Henry’s offer.

“Absolutely not.” Ophelia said. “I’m not going to that place again, there were men oogling me all over.”

“That’s probably for the best, means you aren’t too disfigured.” Johnny replied.

“Some of those guys would fuck an old lady as long as she had a functioning hole.” Henry added. “Anywho, you’re bandages are coming off tonight, so we might as well celebrate that, and the fact we might not be coming back here tomorrow night.”

“What?” Ophelia asked. “What are you on about, we’re the ones solving the murder mystery, not the ones being murdered.”

“Look, bit of friendly advice Ophelia, nothing ever goes to plan, you should know that better than anyone.” Johnny said.

“Fine, I’ll drink a LITTLE BIT.” Ophelia said. “Just a glass or two, that’s it.”

Scenarios:
1. Ophelia has more than a LITTLE BIT to drink
2. Larry is at the bar and has gotten into a fight with a couple of the local toughs
3. Duchane is trying to fight off a man who has been smitten by her
4. Blackie is having a drink with a few of the guys from the Ravens Den, and they’re playing a friendly game of poker, might be a good chance to introduce Ophelia to a few more of them
5. Stefan is having his monthly drink, and Nessie is annoyed since he’s weirding out the guests
6. (write in)

>>3117987
>5. Stefan is having his monthly drink, and Nessie is annoyed since he’s weirding out the guests
>2. Larry is at the bar and has gotten into a fight with a couple of the local toughs
This is perfect for chaos and shenanigans

>>3117987
This >>3117989

>>3117991
>>3117989
writing

>>3117987
Henry, Ophelia, and Johnny entered Nessie’s bar and found a bit of a situation had begun to develop. In one of the bar’s nooks a group of rowdy looking gentlemen were becoming loud and boisterous, from what Henry could tell the group was gambling on something or other, not entirely unusual for the place.


However in the center of the bar was a fairly large empty space, which was quite peculiar. The place was NEVER empty, and this time of the day was by far the busiest as the sun had begun to go down and most people were either here or at home. The fact that such a large space was being filled by just one man either meant someone really dangerous or really weird was sitting at the sole filled table.


As luck would have it, it was the latter. Stefan the Bizarre was having a small glass of wine while perusing a tome of some sort. While somehow ignoring Nessie as she screamed about how he was disturbing the guests. Nobody was brave or dumb enough to tell her that she was probably causing as many problems for the guests as Stefan was.


Duchane was behind the bar, watching the entire scene unfold. The normally aggressive woman looked unnerved by Nessie. She tried to speak up over the woman but was only shouted down in response.


“Look you’lls either stops bringing ins all thems high learnings magicalsies junks or you’lls leave!” Nessie said. “This is the thirdsie time in threes months.”


“I’ve done nothing wrong my good woman, its hardly my fault that your patrons are terrified by things they don’t stand a chance at understanding. Besides this is the only place in Undertown where I can get a good glass of wine.”


Decisions:
1. See what the gamblers are doing
2. Try to break things up
3. Get a drink, maybe even challenge Ophelia to a contest
4. Leave, this is more than you bargained for

>>3118019
>3. Get a drink
Don't challenge Ophelia, jest tell her which ones are strong and which ones are sweet.

>>3118019
This >>3118028
Our drink should be something not too strong but not too weak. Maybe a little minty, not sure.

>>3118036
Peppermint?
Peppermints are awesome, so peppermint alcohol might be good.

>>3118039
>>3118036
>>3118028
writing

>>3118019
Henry decided to ignore the commotion and strode up to the bar, he had enough problems to deal with and hopefully he’d be able to ignore this one.


“Are we not going to defuse the situation?” Johnny asked.


“Be my guest, I just want a feckin drink.” Henry replied.


“Ey Duchane, do you have any more of that peppermint stuff?”


“The what?” Duchane asked in between shouts from Nessie.


“The peppermint beer that Nessie has, should be under the counter somewhere.”


Henry turned to watch Nessie dragging Stefan by his coattails, the man managed to wiggle free and cast a blue spell.


The mana coalsed and formed into a couple of strange serpants that wiggled their way through the air. The man had always had some weird spells in his aresanal.


“I’ll forgive the transgression Nessie but can we perchance talk about this in a civilized manner.”


“Fine.” Nessie said, throwing Stefans cloak back at him. “Just don’t scare the feckin guests, heck we gots a table ups on the seconds floorsie.”


“That works fine my dear.” Stefan said, placing his cloak on and heading upstairs. The serpents dissipated into residual blue mana, and then the mana dissipated into aetherial residue.


“I think I found it.” Duchane said, “What did I miss, is the fighting over?”

“Yeah just about.” Ophelia said, “That brute settled things peacefully.”
“Oy that’s still my Aunt.” Duchane said.
“It’s probably due to the fact she’s afraid of snakes.” Henry said. “Stefan is a sly bastard I’ll give him that. Guy also has a good head on his shoulders, allowed Nessie to back down without losing too much face.”
“That man’s always been an enigma around these parts.” Johnny mused. “A talented mage in his own right though.”
“Huh?” Ophelia asked.
“Well anyways, this is a really good brand of peppermint beer, some crazy bastard decided to create the brand a few years back, bit sweet for my tastes but I think you’d like it.” Henry said. “Just try not to drink too quickly, beer is stronger than it tastes.”


“I know I know.” Ophelia said, waving him off.


Decision by Ophelia:
1. Go full bore on the alcohol, show that idiot you can take it
2. Be cautious, this is some sort of prank isn’t it
3. “So why do you care about who knows who or who’s fighting who? Its just a bunch of extra work isn’t it?”
4. “If only everyone could get along.”

>>3118130
>1. Go full bore on the alcohol, show that idiot you can take it
No difficult musing for this gal, unless they are about the arcane

>>3118130
this >>3118135

Rolled 43 (1d100)

>>3118135
>>3118136
will write tomorrow

>>3118199
Dang 4channel being down, made the quest not post.
Dang 4channel being called 4channel

>>3118130
Ophelia had had enough of Henry’s taunting and teasing. So what if she’d never had alcohol before? She’d show him, she’d show everyone!

She grabbed the mug of peppermint ale and downed it in one shot, which soon proved to be a miscalculation.

“The hells are you doing?!” Johnny asked.

“Good on you!” Henry cheered. “Thadda girl!’

“I feel dizzy…” Ophelia said, clumsly setting the mug down and breathing heavily. “I feel funny… did you drug me?!”

“That’s normal.” Johnny replied.

“If I wanted to harm you I wouldn’t do it here.” Henry said. “Sides I would’ve had some too if you didn’t flipping drink it all!”

“There’s another bottle left actually.” Duchane said.

“Sure what the hell.” Henry said, tossing her a piece of silver for the trouble.

“OY YER FACKIN CHEATING!” A large man called out from where the gambling had been taking place.

“Not my fault you can’t count past three.” A familiar voice replied.

“I says we drag him out and gut em, he was cheetin, no way he could get four aces.” A thin whispy man said to his fellows.
“What?” The same familiar voice asked. “I had four aces, but there are four in a deck!”

“Yeah, but I had an ace too, you cheat!” The large man said. “Nobody fucks with the fishbone gang.”

“Come on lads, let’s talk this out.” The familiar voice said. “Wouldn’t do to spill blood in this place.”

“Oh fucking hell, Nessie’s upstairs.” Duchane said. “Can you take care of this before something bad happens? I don’t want to get blamed.”

“It’s fun to watch.” Henry said.

“Really?” Ophelia asked. “I… I can settle this…”

“I’ll comp yer drinks, how’s that?” Duchane said “Just make sure nothing gets broken.”

Decision:
1. “How’s about you give us a few rounds if we get things done cleanly?” (medium roll)
2. “Yeah sure, come on Ophelia”
3. “You can do this cleanly Ophelia?”
4. *cast a spell*(choose target)
5. “Can you break them up Johnny? I can’t be assed.”
6. (write in)

>>3120296
>2. “Yeah sure, come on Ophelia”
"What better training than to try it drunk"

>>3120296
this >>3120336

>>3120336
>>3120438
writing

>>3120296
“Yeah sure, come on Ophelia.” Henry said.

“Yeah lets go do this!” Ophelia said.

The alcohol was obviously affecting her, the woman seemed far peppier than normal.

Henry strode over to the group and saw a familiar face, Larry was the one that the fishbone gang had gotten angry with. For whatever reason the man had pissed all three of them off. Either that or they were sore losers.

“Hey Henry!” Larry said. “Long time no see eh?”

“Oy, who the fack is this? Friends of yours?” One of the gang members asked.

“Oy can you tell this fuckface to pay up, fucker cheated at cards.”

“It’s not even my deck!” Larry said. “You’ll back me up right pal?”

“Can everyone just shut… shut up.” Ophelia asked. “Can I just put them to sleep Henry?”

“Look fellas, I’ve been patient with you, but I’m losing my last bit of it.” Larry said, slowly moving his hand towards his blade.

He wasn’t actually going to was he? Nobody was THAT crazy or THAT naïve right?

Decisions:

1. “Look guys, I don’t give a fuck who is wrong or right but can you take it outside? It’s disturbing the patrons.”
2. “Look, I’ll get Nessie involved if you don’t simmer down.”
3. “So what proof do you have that he cheated?”
4. “Yeah Ophelia you can put them to sleep. As long as you don’t harm them you’ll be fine.”
5. *cast a spell*
6. “You know what, I’m going back to drinking, have fun Larry.”
7. “Yeah Larry I think you’re cheating. Its three on one here.”
8. (write in)

>>3122735
>3. “So what proof do you have that he cheated?”

>>3122735
this >>3122739
If you have no details and proof, you have no case, so you can fuck right off.

>>3122746
>>3122739
writing

>>3122735
“So what proof do you have that he cheated?” Henry asked.

“He had four aces, I had a fifth!” The skinny gang member said. “Ain’t that right?”

“Yeah.”

“Yep.”

“See, all three of us saws the same thing.”

“The deck isn’t even mine!” Larry replied. “Do you think I’d go to the trouble of getting an exact match?”

“They have plain brown backs, s’not hard to copy them.” The big one replied. “Sides its three on one here, we all saws it.”

“So you’re saying there was an extra ace in play?” Henry said.

“Yeah, oy fancypants toss yer aces over.” The skinny one said.

Larry grudgingly did so, sliding four cards across the table.

Sure enough there were five aces. One of each and an extra ace of diamonds.

“See its right there!” The skinny one said.

“This is a fuckin set up and you know it.” Larry replied.

“Lemme help, I… I got this!” Ophelia said, “Just trust me!”

Decisions:
1. “These are a perfect match, nice fucking try but we’re not stupid.”
2. “Yeah sure Ophelia, go for it. What the hell.”
3. “Seems that they have a point Larry, unfortunately.”
4. “Just remove the card and replay the round, I’ll even keep an eye out on you guys if you want.”
5. (write in)

>>3122782
>“Yeah sure Ophelia, go for it. What the hell.”
>Keep an eye on all the guys, including Larry, as Ophelia does... whatever she does.

>>3122808
Yes, lets do this

>>3122823
>>3122808
roll 1d100

Rolled 38 (1d100)

>>3122842

Rolled 86 (1d100)

>>3122842

>>3123230
writing

>>3122782
“Yeah sure Ophelia, go for it what the hell.” Henry said.

He kept his attention on the gang members as well as Larry. He made a motion with his hands to signal Larry to calm the hell down and to NOT attack. He really hoped Larry wouldn’t do it, the mess would be unimaginable. If he’d turned around at that point he’d have noticed that Ophelia was summoning a fairly large amount of blue mana around here hands and her eyes had taken on a faint blue glow. A few of the patrons with magical abilities stared while Ophelia gathered up the needed magic.

“Oy whats the hellsie-“ Duchane began to say before the spell took off.

Ophelia emitted a large amount of blue mana from her hands which traveled into an arcing bolt, striking the large man in square in the head. The gang members didn’t know how to react, from their prespective their friend had just stopped moving and was blankly staring ahead. The bolt continued to travel through and out of the man’s head, then back to Ophelia.

“I understand now, you’ve been extorting people haven’t you Freddy?”

“How the fuck did you know about the plan? how the fuck do you know my name?!” Freddy asked, before stopping. “Wait a tick…”

“You fucking idiot…” The thin one said. “YOU FUCKIN IDIOT.”

“Oy so where is my money then?” Larry asked. “Deals a deal.”

“Deal is we don’t fuckin clobber ya.” The short one said. “Come on boys, let’s get the hell outta this dump, and I’ll fuckin remember this ya feckin mummy.” He said, pointing at Ophelia.

“Can I hurt them…” Ophelia asked quietly. “Just a little…”

“No, control yourself.” Henry said. “They ain’t worth the time, you find all sorts of trash in the sewer.”
Larry sighed, taking his hand off his blade and relaxing. “Thanks I guess, lost me some good coin though.” He continued, as the gang took off.

“FUCK!” Duchane said, beginning to bolt after them before stopping at the entrance. “GETS BACKSIE AND PAYS YER FECKINS TAB!” She yelled to no avail.

Decisions:
1. “So you wanna get to drinking Larry, getting my friend here into the swing of things, new partnership.”
2. “What the hell have you been up to?”
3. “Still getting into trouble I see?”
4. “Psst… hey you might wanna make yerself scarce” (to Ophelia)
5. “Oy Johnny, guess who I found!"
6. (write in)

>>3123341
>3. “Still getting into trouble I see?”

>>3123354
writing, fug it

>>3123341
“Still getting into trouble I see?” Henry asked.

“Still being a smary asshole?” Larry responded. “Come on and share a drink with me! I’ve got a nice little job lined up, should last me another week or so. Until its up, I got coin to burn.”

“On anything and everything.” Johnny said, sitting down at the table.

When the hell had he gotten there.

“So what exactly did you do to him Ophelia, I saw a flash of blue and little else. Hopefully nothing long lasting.”

“I just copied some memories for myself, short term, little risk of any damage.” Ophelia said. “Was far easier than I could have imagined, I used waaaay too much mana. Could’ve probably done it with a quarter. I’m just used to people putting up a fight, I sometimes forget few people can actually USE magic.”

“Yeah, most people gotta worry about survival.” Larry said. “Well that or fighting and drinkin.”

“And some people spend their whole damned lives trying to figure out what they want, seems you’ve figured it out.” Henry replied.

“Yep.” Larry said with a happy sigh. “So from talkin round town it seems you aren’t exactly the model churchgoer.” Larry said. “Makes it even odder you saved my life, but that’s the way it goes.”

“Oh, yeah…” Henry said. “About that….”

“Look I don’t care much, you didn’t lie for no reason, and you didn’t lie about anything important, so I don’t care much.” Larry said. “Long as you don’t harm me and mine I don’t really care what anyone else does.”

“If only life was so simple.” Johnny retorted. “That attitude leads nowhere good.”

“Gee when did you become a buzzkill?” Larry asked.

“He’s always been like that.” Henry said.

“So I don’t suppose you’d be needin a guard or anything?” Larry asked. “I mean I got the current job but I’ve been lookin for some work.”

“Nothing right now.” Henry replied. “Sides I don’t trust anyone I haven’t vetted, least when it comes to guard work.”

“What?” Larry asked.

“Do some jobs round town, cause from what I understand yer fairly new.” Henry said.

“Pfft, I’m not even involved with the church and I still have to kiss fuckin rings.” Larry said. “Fuckin ell why is everyone round here so damn uptight?”

“Cause we’re in a den of criminals and debauchery.” Ophelia explained. “I can’t believe you haven’t been gutted yet.”

“Had a few people try, lit em up like a fireplace.” Larry explained. “Well I would’ve if they hadn’t booked it. Good lord everyone’s been treating me like a crazy man.”

>>3123434
“Uh… you do know about the Undertown Curse?” Henry asked.

“The whatsit?” Larry replied.

“If you do harm to someone you suffer badly.” Johnny replied. “At least within the towns borders.”

“Another feckin rule.” Larry said. “Rules even in a den of criminals.”

“Way the world works.” Henry said. “Unless yer powerful enough you gotta play by other people’s rules.”

“Well I just gotta get a bit stronger then don’t I, make sure everyone knows not to fuck with me.” Larry replied.

“Uhm… really?” Ophelia whispered. “Really?!”

“It’s a good plan innit?” Larry replied.

Duchane delivered another round of alcohol and the two of them, Larry and Henry, took their sips. Ophelia wanted to have another drink but was vetoed by Johnny. Henry didn’t complain much, saved him the coin.

Decisions:
1. “The best plan.”
2. “I’ve been thinking of expanding business actually, maybe head down to the coast to check in on a few things. Could use someone competent or at the very least skilled.”
3. “So is your mum alright with all this?”
4. “I don’t believe you’re taking the fact I’m a necromancer so well.”
5. “So what’s your angle?”
6. (write in)

>>3123442
>4. “I don’t believe you’re taking the fact I’m a necromancer so well.”
Lets stick our foot in our mouth shall we?

>>3123442
This >>3123460

>>3123442
>>3123460
+1
Mention the party just to be sure we won't be walking into each other

>>3124241
>>3124202
>>3123460
writing

>>3123442
“I don’t believe you’re taking the fact I’m a necromancer so well.” Henry said.

“Well I get that, since one attacked my home and all, but this is the way I see it. It wasn’t you who attacked my home and it wasn’t you who killed my pa, that was a completely different guy. I ain’t gonna hold something against ya that you didn’t do, church be damned.” Larry said. “Simple as that, really.”

“Right.” Henry said. “Well you stabbing me in the back will have to wait till after the party then.”

“Family get together?” Larry asked. “And you’re my friend, I don’t stab friends in the back, ever.”

“I can’t imagine he even has a family.” Ophelia said.

“Running security for a noblewoman, it’s a long story.” Henry said. “And its reassuring that you have so much faith in me friend.”

“Friends and family are dear things, sides you saved my life back in Blaise, more than once. I may not have said much back there but I owe you a great deal Henry. I want to be able to repay you one day.”

Decisions:
1. “You might get a chance sooner than you think.”
2. “No need to repay me, I was just being selfish.”
3. “Hear anything about the spider?”
4. “Any juicy pieces of news?”
5. (write in)

>>3125533
>5. (write in)
"Shit Larry, you almost moved my undead heart. ANOTHER ROUND""Please Duchane .

>2. “No need to repay me, I was just being selfish.”

>>3125533
>Are you sure about that? When I need to call in favours, they won't be nice and pretty. You know that right?

>The 'no violence' curse is some real magical bullshit by the way, don't fucking test it alright?

>>3125556
This, as long as we also get another round

>>3125533
This >>3125556

>>3125579
>>3125564
>>3125556
>>3125541
writing

>>3125533
“Shit Larry, you almost moved my cold dead heart.” Henry said, jokingly. “Another round!”

“Thadda boy!” Larry said. “Let cute bandaged girl get a round too eh Johnny? I’m sure the wound must hurt horribly. A bit of booze would go a long way to numbing the pain I’d think.”

“Hardly the case.” Johnny said.

“It REALLY hurts…” Ophelia said, lying badly.

“Let her have the damned drink, you aren’t her father Johnny.” Henry said. “Sides I’m payin fer it.”

“That’s the best news I’ve heard all day.” Larry said. “Least you could do after making them run off.”

“Blame the girl, I just watched.” Henry said.

“What did I do? I didn’t hurt anyone, like you asked.” Ophelia said.

Duchane brought another round of drinks over for the four of them, although of course Johnny politely declined.

“So the scarred hands are hiring.” Larry said. “Some big job down by the coast apparently, security work in the last lumber town left down there. Been mulling over having a go of it, the pays pretty good for what it is.”

“That would be… what Colseph?” Henry asked. “All the others dried up long before either of us were alive.”

“You’d think the people in charge of those ship building companies wouldn’t have destroyed their source of lumber.” Ophelia said.

“Hrm. I’ve always wondered about that.” Johnny said. “Believe it or not at one point there were giant coastal forests. Trees that lived in the salt water.”

“I’ve read about those!” Ophelia said. “Mangroves I think they were called, they had fish that swam through them.”

“Trees in salt water? No way.” Larry said. “Nothing green grows in salt water.”

“Seaweed?” Henry asked in disbelief.

“Oh right.” Larry replied.

“Well the only place you can find them anymore is near the entrance to the great swamps.”

“Why the fuck are we talking about trees?” Henry asked. “I mean boats are great and all but do none of us have anything better to talk about?”

Decision by Johnny:
1. “So Ophelia, why do you have a grudge against the cult of progress? I don’t know much about the group other than they’re major players in Avignon and have been expanding their influence.”
2. “I don’t suppose any of you have heard the story of when I had to fight off a couple of ghiests have you?”
3. (write in)


Optional decisions:
1. Say something: (Write in)(pick a character)

>>3125633
>1. “So Ophelia, why do you have a grudge against the cult of progress? I don’t know much about the group other than they’re major players in Avignon and have been expanding their influence.”
>>3125633
>1. Say something: (Write in)(pick a character)
"You better not be doing the magicks again" Duchane As the drinks are dropped off.

>>3125633
This >>3125691

>>3125708
>>3125691
writin

>>3125633
“So you betters nots be doings magics.” Duchane said as she took the now empty tray back and headed back towards the countertop. I know Nessie thinks it don’t matters but it’s a painsie”

“What is she even on about?” Larry asked.

“She doesn’t want us to use magic in here.” Ophelia said. “Like most of the people in here could even tell.”

“Right well, let’s try to not piss off anyone, especially when they are the ones giving us drinks.” Henry said.

“So Ophelia, why do you hold such a grudge towards the cult of progress. I admit I don’t know much about the group other than that they’re major players in Avignon and have been expanding their influence throughout the world.”

“Well, they steal whatever inventions or ideas they can get their damned hands on if you’re not a member. In fact good luck being independent when they’re around. They trample over everyone except the church, damned archbishop in their corner.

“Archbishop?” Henry asked.

“The Archbishop of Rika Province.” Ophelia explained.

“So the Archbishop of Avignon?” Larry asked.

“Basically.” Ophelia explained. “Its well-known he’s been a major supporter of their little cult, and the church would’ve cracked down on them if not for his influence. He HATED my father and he hates me.”

“Come on don’t leave us hanging, I sense a good story there.” Larry said.

“I don’t want to talk about it further.” Ophelia said. “Alright?!”

“Geez fine.” Larry said.

“So Larry, how’d you learn to use magic?” Henry asked.

“Mum was a blacksmith, she used a bit of magic when she worked. Never learned where she even got the skill from, but she taught me how to do it well enough. I think it was one of those passed down the family deals.”

“Self-taught maybe?” Ophelia asked.

“I really doubt that.” Henry said.

“Well I taught myself, it’s not impossible.” Ophelia explained. “Just a bit of hard work but it really pays off.”

“You’re a bit of a special case dear.” Johnny responded, fidgeting with his sword hilt.

“So how’s the kid doing?” Larry asked. “Apparently he was the royal heir, least if Rosa wasn’t spinning a tale. How the hell didn’t you get a reward for all that?”

Decisions:
1. “Cause I got tricked.”
2. “Cause I did something really stupid…”
3. “Look Larry, I don’t ask you about all your fuck ups.”
4. “I got him as my apprentice, so in all honesty I did pretty well for myself.”
5. (write in)

>>3125862
>4. “I got him as my apprentice, so in all honesty I did pretty well for myself.”
>5. (write in)
"And we got to keep our heads, sometimes that's all the reward you need."

>>3125862
This >>3125878

>>3125878
>>3125945
will write tomorrow

>>3125862
“I got him as my apprentice, so in all honesty I did pretty well for myself.”

“At least you got something out of that trip.” Larry said. “But are you really sure a child should be getting involved in that sorta stuff?”

“He’s professed a strong interest, and considering what happened to his family I want to make sure he doesn’t make stupid mistakes.”

“Stupid mistakes are how we learn.” Larry replied. “If a kid grows up not making any mistakes, the first one he makes as an adult is gonna be really bad.”

“I’ve never heard that one before.” Johnny added. “Where did you hear it?”

“Made it myself, always had a knack for witty phrases.” Larry explained. “Mum always thought I’d be some sort of poet, like I could ever deal in that foppery.”

“You sure showed her.” Ophelia Snidely responded.

“Ha, yeah.” Larry replied, not realizing Ophelia had meant that as an insult.

“So somethings has been bothering me.” Larry said. “About that nasty business in Grutzberg.”

“Yeah?” Henry asked.

“Did we ever find that Ophelia woman?” Larry continued. “I didn’t really care much at the time, I mean running some woman through isn’t exactly brave or valiant, nor is it hard. But, did we ever find her? We basically left money on the table didn’t we?”

Ophelia began to fidget nervously. The woman had become terrified. Henry elbowed her in the side and glanced at her. Didn’t she know by now he could handle things?”

Decisions:
1. “Aw fuck.”
2. “Uh, yeah about that…” (admit the truth)
3. “Y’know I completely forgot, after the ‘incident’ I was kinda just sleepwalking through that.”
4. “We’re lucky we made it out of that alive, let’s not tempt fate shall we?”
5. “I’m sure the scared hands or one of the other merc’s got her. She’s probably dead.”
6. (write in)

>>3128487
>2. “Uh, yeah about that…” (admit the truth)
Fuck it
ALL IN

>>3128487
this >>3128528

>>3128528
If she can make those things for the DukeI think it was the duke that was the vampire, who was a vampire, she could make some interesting things for us.
And tell him about the undercity curse, that it isn't an old wives' tale, but an actual magical thing that will fuck up those who do violence here.
>>3128550
I'm slow typing

>>3128528
>>3128550
>>3128555
writing

>>3128487
“Uh… yeah about that.” Henry said, breathing in deeply and half shutting his eyes. He needed to mentally steel himself.

“Uh Henry?” Ophelia asked.

“So this is Ophelia von Kurtz.” Henry said, motioning over towards Ophelia.

Larry looked from Henry to Ophelia, then back to Henry. Before bursting out laughing. When it became apparent it wasn’t a joke, he stopped and immediately pulled out his blade halfway.

“Why the hell shouldn’t I just gut her here then?!” Larry asked. “What the hell Henry, why are you helping her when the church is paying good money. Why didn’t you tell me.”

“Settle down.” Johnny said, placing his hand on Larrys, and easing the blade back into its sheath.

“Yeah you really don’t want to hurt anyone down here, at least willingly.” Henry said. “Curse will get you.”

“What is this curse?” Larry asked.

“Look if you knowingly hurt someone while in undertown’s borders, you die, violently.” Henry said. “Lets just leave it like that, alright?”

“Right, sure.” Larry said, leaning back. The man had become agitated and was staring Ophelia down.

Ophelia for her part was trying to shrink away, mumbling something about an experiment she had to run and that she didn’t want to be here right now and oh god he’s going to kill me.

“She’s worth far more alive then dead.” Henry said.

“Well the church would probably offer more if we turned her in alive.” Larry said.

“Not what I mean. Look, she invented a automaton. Alive but not, but NOT made out of once living things. I didn’t even think that was possible, but apparently she can do that. If we can make more, with my skill and her mind, I think we could make them controllable. We could sell them off to interested parties make an absolute killing.” Henry said.

“Well why the hell should I not just turn her in?” Larry asked. “That’s fine and all but it doesn’t make me anything!”

“C-can I just put him to s-sleep?” Ophelia asked. “W-we can dump him in the r-river right?”

“Oy, if you want to kill me don’t be a pussy about it.” Larry said with more than a hint of annoyance.

“Look, nobody is going to kill nobody. Alright?” Henry said. “And don’t get smart with me Ophelia I know you want to say it doesn’t make sense.” He added, cutting the woman off before she could speak.

Decisions:
1. “Look, can you please trust me on this Larry? I came clean with you didn’t I?”
2. “Please don’t interfere Larry, I like you, I don’t want to have to get rid of you.”
3. “Look, if you threaten my investment I’ll liquidate you.”
4. (Write in)

>>3128623
>“Look, can you please trust me on this Larry? I came clean with you didn’t I?”
>"And if that's not enough, then any money we make off of selling the first automaton will go straight to you. All of it, but only from the first one. How's that sound?"

>>3128674
Hmm
This sounds good.

>>3128713
>>3128674
roll 1d100+25

Rolled 45 + 25 (1d100 + 25)

>>3128715

Rolled 62 + 25 (1d100 + 25)

>>3128715

Rolled 18 + 25 (1d100 + 25)

>>3128715

>>3129122
>>3128718
>>3129125
>mfw I thought these were all the same poster
writing

>>3130652
You're not colorblind are you GM?

>>3128623
“Look can you please trust me on this Larry? I came clean with you didn’t I?” Henry pleaded.

“Look I want to believe you friend…” Larry said.

“Look if this is about money, then anything I…we make off selling the first automaton will go straight to you, how’s that sound?” Henry said.

“What?” Ophelia asked. “Don’t I get a say in any of this?”

“Shut up Ophelia.” Henry said, using only the side of his mouth. The exasperation was evident.

“Y’know, forget it, its fine.” Larry said. “I’m acting like a right cunt. We all made it out of there, and you seem to being doing well for yourself. All I want is a chance alright? I my lucks been on the up and up ever since you saved my life back in Blaise, I think your my lucky break… how’s about half the money from the first one you sell?” Larry asked.

“Alright, yeah.” Henry said.

“And if it goes haywire I want to bring it down.” Larry continued. “I barely did anything back in Blaise, the thing blew up on its own from what I could tell.”

“Right…” Ophelia explained. “Yeah it did didn’t it.”

Decisions:
1. Head home, you have a big day ahead of you
2. Walk home with Larry, talk a bit more
3. Head to another location (write in)
4. (Write in)

>>3130713
>1. Head home, you have a big day ahead of you
We have to get everything prepared

>>3130713
>1. Head home, you have a big day ahead of you

Merry Christmas

>>3130724
>Merry Christmas
This

>>3130731
>>3130724
>>3130721
writing
>thanks guys

>>3130713
“Welp, we’re heading home, we have a big day and we need sleep.” Henry said.

He slowly stood up, making sure he had good footing. Fortunately he hadn’t drank too much, god forbid he’d have a hangover when he went to the big murder party. Ophelia nearly fell to the floor when she tried to get up, it was obviously the first time she’d ever had anything remotely alcoholic.

“Try not to kiss the floor.” Johnny remarked.

“Shaddup.” Ophelia said. “I’m fine, just not used to this, I don’t know why anyone would enjoy this, it didn’t taste too good, and I feel dizzy.”

“There is a difference between a few drinks and drinking yourself under the table.” Henry said. “Regardless, I also will never understand those who drink to excess.”

“Some people cope however they can.” Johnny said.

Henry tossed a few more coins over to Duchane and left, Ophelia and Johnny trailing behind them. The walk out of undertown was nice and uneventful. He’d head to Vermilions place and get instructions, and he’d sadly have to bring Johnny and Ophelia along, he’d have Ophelia wait outside… and well, Johnny refused to go into that place, not due to fear, more due to the fact he’d cut down every vampire inside if he could manage it.

While Henry wouldn’t exactly mind that outcome, he’d rather not be attached to it. Killing Vermillion would bring hell down on him. The Roma family were very protective of their important members, at least if Vermillion was to be believed, and the vampire wasn’t really a liar.

Home was nice and warm when Henry arrived back. He sat down and had a glass of water before adding some notes to his journal. He’d be getting a few more jobs over the next couple of weeks, but he had nothing beyond that. Perhaps he could start looking into that mass corpse selling idea he’d had, or he could try to find some willing buyers for their invention. He’d probably start with Vermillion, let the idea get around, then move outwards.

Assuming Vermillion didn’t try to get exclusive rights of course.

“I’ve helped Ophelia back to her room, the woman went right back to working on her notes. I think it’s more of a nervous tick than anything at this point.” Johnny said.

“Look, Johnny, I’m sorry for bringing up the past with you earlier, I realize it must be painful.”

“I’m nearing five hundred years old now Henry, maybe I’ve already passed five hundred without noticing. I’d like to say it isn’t painful anymore, but that’s not true… but its fine. Don’t worry yourself over ancient history.”

Decisions:
1. “Thanks Johnny.”
2. “Do you ever forget things that caused you pain?”
3. “Who was that woman?”
4. “Did you manage to save her?”
5. (write in)

>>3130799
>4. “Did you manage to save her?”

>>3130802
writing

>>3130799
“Did you manage to save her?” Henry asked.

Johnny was quiet for a several minutes, either deep in thought or deeply angry. Henry began to worry if he’d upset the man before finally, Johnny responded.

“Yes and no, Henry.” Johnny said. “I was offered a deal, and I got exactly what I desired. But in the end it destroyed her. I saved her and I destroyed her all the same. Funny that.” Johnny said. “After all this time, I’ve come to believe its what I deserved, after everything I did. Yet I don’t know if I regret doing it. At first I thought I did, truly. But as the years have dragged ever onward, I find that I no longer wonder if things could be different.”

“Wow.” Henry said, uncomfortable. “Well I uh…”

“You should get some sleep Henry, you have a big day tomorrow, getting some innocent woman murdered.”

“R-right”

Needless to say, Henry didn’t sleep well that night.

=======================================(END OF CHAPTER)==============================

>>3105196
>>3132000
new thead up!

File: 1484939858695.jpg (108 KB, 1000x616)

108 KB JPG

It's your first day at St. John's Youth Academy and things aren't going as you would hope. It's lunchtime and you're eating alone when the sharks got a scent of their prey. "Ahmed needs lunch money so he sent us to take your's, new kid", the one of the left tells you.

Action and D20