File: 132827.jpg (26 KB, 550x366)

26 KB JPG

>>3243967

“We’ll head back with the Sergeant Major and her men. It’s dangerous to travel the desert alone, and were in no shape to fight.”

Randolf ponders your words for a moment before nodding “Yeah, I’d be a shame if we finished our mission only to get killed on the return trip.” Laughing to himself Randolf departs for the soldiers loading up the supplies.

The march back to Turaif was far different than the march to the mercenary fort. While the march to battle was filled with a sense of nervousness and anticipation, the march back was rather somber and worried. Almost a third of your men were dead, and half of the rest were in bad shape. You knew that even if some of the wounded survived, they would be discharged from the service due to the severity of their wounds. In the end though your mission had been accomplished, the mercenaries had been thoroughly destroyed, and even if some mercenary groups were still wandering the desert, they would have nowhere near the strength needed to attack the caravans again.

While there were no threats on the short journey back to Turaif, everyone was kept busy. Selenas spent most of her time with the wounded, replacing bandages and giving encouragement, whole cart loads of soldiers would brighten up the second she approached. Randolf did his best to stay intoxicated, and to keep the healthy soldier’s minds from lingering for too long on the battle they had just fought and lost friends in. Mildri squirreled herself away in her tomes pouring over them every waking minute. Meanwhile Ren, Takur, and The Sergeant Major stayed focused on the road ahead and made plans on what to do next. As for you well…

>Caught up on some much needed reading.
>Shared my time with [Specify]
>Got as much sleep as you could
>[Write In]

Congratulations on surviving the assault gentlemen you may now select a perk:

>Lean Into the Blow: You’ve been smacked around by a lot of lucky blows as a result, you’re able to better see them coming and prepare. Enemy crit no longer do double damage, they simply add +5 to the damage.

>Triage Medic: Dealing with the wounds of your men has taught you much. After any fight in which you’ve sustained damage, you can choose to treat your wounds, healing you for 5 HP, you also have an easier time treating the wounds of others

>Last Hurrah: Leading men into the jaws of death multiple times has given you the confidence of a real leader. All speech checks made to inspire or otherwise encourage people are now easier.

>>3243972
>>Caught up on some much needed reading.
the new book, we could have saved more men if we had read it before

but also

>Shared my time with [Specify]
spend some time with Selenas, that was her first battle and try to practice some of our, and hers since she read the primer, herbalism on the wounded

>Triage Medic: Dealing with the wounds of your men has taught you much. After any fight in which you’ve sustained damage, you can choose to treat your wounds, healing you for 5 HP, you also have an easier time treating the wounds of others

>>3243972
Hell yeah, its back!
>>3244187
Support, spend some time with her and read when we stop.

The perk


>Lean Into the Blow: You’ve been smacked around by a lot of lucky blows as a result, you’re able to better see them coming and prepare. Enemy crit no longer do double damage, they simply add +5 to the damage.

>>3243972
>Shared my time with [Specify]
Sel

>Triage Medic: Dealing with the wounds of your men has taught you much. After any fight in which you’ve sustained damage, you can choose to treat your wounds, healing you for 5 HP, you also have an easier time treating the wounds of others

File: 1791246.jpg (1.16 MB, 1000x750)

1.16 MB JPG

>>3243972

>>3244187
>>3244250
>>3244374

>Triage Medic perk gained

You spend most of daytime with Selenas tending to the injured soldiers and offering what words of encouragement. While tending to a particularly injured solider Selenas begins to speak to you, never taking her eyes off her patient. “This one reminds me of a boy I met once. He went with me to attack your dungeon under the hill. He was such a brave kid, two years younger than me and yet he was at the front of the charge when we entered. He was the first one to hit the traps. He was cut in half along with a few others at the front, his was body I first came to.” Selenas pauses for a moment to wet a cloth and wipe the sweat from the soldier’s forehead “There was blood everywhere, running out of his mouth and nose he was coughing and couldn’t speak, but his eyes stayed on me the whole time. This was the second time I’d seen death, but this was the first time I’d seen it so up close and grisly. I couldn’t bear to watch him die so I just, pulled my gaze away from him, not only him, but everyone. I pressed onward through more and more traps, and more and more death never looking back at the dead.” She turns to you now her eyes holding steady, “I wonder now what they thought of me, the dead and dying I left behind. Did they hate me? Did they see me running past with everyone else and think you, you’re the reason I’m dead.”

You’d grown almost used to seeing Selenas cry at moments like these, but as she poses you the question, you see no tears in her eyes, you don’t even see a look of regret or remorse. She just stares at you lost in thought, her gaze almost empty.

>No, they were probably to focused on the pain to see you or anyone for that matter.
>Maybe, no one can really know the thoughts of the dying, they could have been thinking of you, or thousand other things.
>Does it matter? Those men were lost, you had to worry about the once who were still with you that you could save.
>[Write In]

>>3244712
Maybe, they could think of you, of home, of their parents.....I had some interesting thoughts when I was certain I was going to die from my wounds...
I usually focus on what I can do for those that survive, like I did for my goblin partners, I know as much as you about what the dying would think in a battle, I hope we never find out (insert weak smile)

When we faced each other, dying was on my mind...were you worried, then or after it?

>>3244712
I ask myself the same thing.
.
>Maybe, no one can really know the thoughts of the dying, they could have been thinking of you, or thousand other things.

>>3244712
who really knows. I've on the verge of death myself. the only think of is how to come out alive,

File: kind of like this.jpg (233 KB, 1482x1600)

233 KB JPG

>>3244712

>>3244928
>>3245030
>>3245096

>This will be the last post of the night.

“Maybe, no one can really know the thoughts of the dying. They could have been thinking of you, their home, or their family. I’ve come close to death a few times myself and I always find my thoughts are of my next move, how I’m going live through the next attack. I guess that’s not really how it is though. Dying is totally different that being close to death, so in a way I know about as much as you do about what dying is like. Although, I did think about death and dying when I was facing you. Were you as worried then as I was?”

Your question brings Selenas back to the present and she refocuses her gaze on you “Yes I did think about dying, but I think I came to accept it in that moment. I thought that I’d die fighting you, but as chaotic as my heart felt in that moment, my thoughts were clear. Like you I was thinking of my next move, how to fight on, how to survive. Even if my heart had accepted death, the rest of me wasn’t ready.” She pauses for a moment and her eyes fall back on to the wounded solider. Then she smiles and lets out a small laugh. “You know it’s funny in the moment before you punched me I thought that I would die in that cold dark dungeon and I guess I did. The old naïve me died there, but the person who killed me was also the one brought me back to life.” Selenas gives you a wide bright smile that warms you even more than the desert heat.

As night falls over the troop train and everyone settles in, you find yourself with a little time to catch up on your reading. Using the light of the campfires you crack open the herbalism book, and begin to read.

>Give me some d20s to see how much you learn tonight.

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>3245362
Good night

Rolled 76 (1d100)

>>3245362

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>3245673
Shit, lol, wrong dice

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3245362

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>3245362
that winning smile, kek, brings a warmth to the hearth

File: 1845263.jpg (189 KB, 520x720)

189 KB JPG

>>3245362

>>3245380
>>3245676
>>3245694

You manage to make it a good portion of the way through the book before sleep overtakes you. Thanks to your previous experience in herbalism, the sometimes advanced topics and language used in the book are easy to decipher. You learn better techniques on how to grind up and take apart plants for medicine. You learn of the fine intricacies of how to taste test plants to determine their usage. You almost make it to through the section on similarities between types of plants in different environments when the author’s long and roundabout descriptions of his trip through the world, finally put you to sleep.

The following day you arrive in Turaif and are immediately met by a crowd of women and children. Names are shouted and Takur’s men rush forward. Children are swept up by their on rushing fathers and clasped tightly in almost painful hugs. Mothers clutch their sons, tears streaming down their faces as they meet one another, but for every joyous reunion, there is a heart rending discovery of death.

Takur manages to get his few healer women to aid your wounded before he himself is consumed by his own large family. As the injured start getting treatment, you can’t help but overhear an argument between Sergeant Ren and the Sergeant Major. “But they need you back Filt ma’am, who knows what has been happened since you left.”

“Everything should be fine, I trust that Sergeant Comoa has everything in hand.”

“Even if he does, I don’t trust these local healers, we have better healers, Imperial healers, back home. I’m sure that we can get our men back on their feet faster, if we head back now.”

“Some of our men are in bad shape, and traveling through the desert has been extremely hard on them, if we keep pushing on like you suggest they might not make it.”

“Our soldiers are tough ma’am, they’ll make it to Filt where we can get them better treatment.”

>Leave them to their bickering, you’ve got more important things to do [Specify]
>Ren is right, the sooner we get back the sooner these men can get proper treatment and the sooner you can get back to the Capital.
>The Sergeant Major has a point, allowing your men to rest here for a bit would help them some, but you’d also get back to the Capital later.
>[Write In]

>>3246568
>Ren is right, the sooner we get back the sooner these men can get proper treatment and the sooner you can get back to the Capital.

We need to press on. The sooner we're back, the better everyone will be.

>>3246568
>Leave wounded here let them rest. Sergeant Major can collect them later. Rest of the man should press forward

It's not like they are in danger or anything. When we unload in Filt she can come back for wounded.

>>3246597
this, those in worse shape that would probably not make it through the desert should stay and get treated, Sargent Major can leave some men here to take them back later, we suggest young Benson can be in charge of getting the men back after treatment

>>3246597
I want to talk to some if the healers before we go. We should learn as much as we can about healing.

>>3246597
Agreed.
Leave those that are too injuried to be treate, tge rest moven on with us. When we arrive we can send some healers to check on them

>>3246615
They are not learned healers. The most you could learn is to how properly help with childbirth.

>>3246667
That could help us eventually.

>>3246686
kek

File: 103296.jpg (71 KB, 612x408)

71 KB JPG

>>3246568

>>3246597
>>3246614
>>3246623

“The Sergeant Major’s right,” you cut in “Those badly wounded might not make the passage through the desert, but we cannot afford any delays. We’ll leave the worst wounded here with some of our men, while we push on to Filt. When we get back we can send some healers back here to retrieve the rest of the men.”

“I don’t like leaving our men here with these people, but I guess that’ll work.” Ren grumbles.

“Excellent idea Captain, I’ll talk with Takur about leaving some men here.”

“Sergeant Major, I suggest that you leave recruit Benson in charge of the wounded, he has proven himself to be a good solider and leader.” The Sergeant Major nods at your suggestion and departs to speak with Takur.

A few moments later she returns with the new that the wounded would be allowed to stay for however long it took for them to get back on their feet. The Sergeant Major’s relief is palpable as she delivers the news. Wounded and escorts detached, the army begins to move again. You bid farewell to Takur, who says that you are welcome to return anytime. You also take the time to say goodbye to Benson saying “You’ve done well Benson, you’ll make a fine leader in the future, just stay alive until then alright.”

Without the severely wounded men, you are able to move at a faster pace and are able to return to Filt much sooner than originally anticipated. At the sight of Filt’s adobe walls the men let out a weary cheer, they’d finally arrived home. Heading through the gates, you find a similar scene to the one you’d seen in Turaif. Tears of joy and sadness flow in equal measure for the returning and those who will never return. The lucky survivors of your little war are dismissed for the day by the Sergeant Major, and are allowed to spent time with their families, but you have no such luck. Upon returning you are immediately met by Hisa who asks “So, who hired them,” he asks out right.

“From the description I was given, it was most likely a hero, or more precisely Falenta the leader of the rebellion.”

Hisa nods casually as if he’d known all along “I see, that would make sense, cutting our supply lines and making us divert troops from the front to protect them would no doubt aid the rebels. Speaking of which, the Queen is recalling her agents. I got a letter saying that you should return to the Capital, regardless of your mission status, but it looks like you’ll be able to bring good news back with you. I’ll send a letter ahead of you saying that you’re on your way back.”

“Thank you Hisa,”

“Don’t mention it, by the way when do you plan on heading back?”

>Immediately, The sooner I get back the better.
>I’ll rest here for the day and head out tomorrow.
>I’ll be here for a while, why do you ask?”
>[Write In]

>>3246687
What with my ID.

>>3246667
>>3246686
>>3246687


>Baldr finishes his service to the Queen, retires and becomes a doctor with Selenas as his nurse. It is now Canon

>>3246852
how are the for of us in terms of injuries?
did we get any gold from the loot of the dead mercenaries?

I say we grab a healing and vigor potion and depart immediately if everyone is alright, if some are wounded or if the mage did not recover we wait until tomorrow and then leave

>>3246856
good end

>>3246852
Rest for the day, then head out. Also I want to write a letter home.

Dear mother, I know it's been awhile since I've last written to you. But it's for a good cause I have been busy recently and I pray for your safety. I've heard of a rebellion and I'm concerned as I have currently been preoccupied by their attempts to Halt our trade. Now well I'm sure that you will be safe and that you'll keep my sisters and brothers out of trouble. I'm still concerned. Well it may be just needless worry.

yours sincerely, Baldr.

>>3246872

Your injuries are healed, the healing potion and the days of rest travel you had were enough to do that. As for Mildri and everyone else, they're fine.

You spent your time taking care of administrative duties and other story important things, while the rest of your men looted the corpse, so you currently have no money still. but you still have the crates full of money from the mercenary base if you wish to dip into those.

>>3246852
>I’ll be here for a day or two, why do you ask?”

>>3246893
Do it while no one is looking.

>>3246881

The letter is a nice thought, but your mother is illiterate as is most of your peasant family.

>>3246897
Damn. Well, what are the chances they became literate while we were gone.

>>3246893
get some coins for ourselves then, buy replacement potions for us, Selenas and Midri since we used our in the battle and rest for the day, we leave tomorrow

>>3246881
I support the letter, they probably have some kind of cleric or elder that can read for the villagers, send a coin inside to pay for the reader services

>>3246908
>>3246896
I agree with getting some coins and replacing our supplies.

But we should leave immediatly after it, if the queen told everyone to drop everything and go back it must be important

>>3246924
Hmmm, yeah, maybe we should leave today, Randolf might throw a hissy fit if we dalay too much and we already took the long way in retuning with troops

>>3246896
>>3246908
>>3246924
Don't steal from fucking cofers you fucks!
Randolf stands right next to us!
DON'T DO IT!
Please for god's mercy don't!

>>3246957
Dude all you have to do is get him drunk. And no one will know.

>>3246852

>Immediately, the sooner I get back the better.

We do not delay orders from our Queen. If she's recalling agents in the middle of missions, it's important.

>>3246906
0.0001%
But there are other ways. Person we send it with can read it to them. Or learned person where they live can do it. Also sending a letter, private letter will cost a lot.

>>3246957
I'd refrain from stealing if we can requisition the healing and vigor potions from the garrison.

And as we remembered, the commanders skiming something from the top of the loot pile is expected.

>>3246959
We can challenge him to a drinking contest under the pretense of celebrating our success in this mission

>>3246966
Well I understand our Zeal to get back to our Queen. We have just completed a mission. Well and we are tired and we can't keep working ourselves like this or well fall apart.

just get back to the queen and get our wages honestly i would rather get the whole sum back remember she can read minds

>>3247005
well I understand your concern it's the spell you know she has to actively pairing to our minds with effort. And well we don't know the exact amount in there and neither does anyone else so who's going to know except for us.

>>3247017
She will know we took it if she checks. It's more of a what kind of character Baldr is. Do we really need that money?

We already said that all of it goes to capital. Do we go back on our word? We lied to them?

>>3247066
The only reason we did that was because of Randolf. If he's out of the picture and we probably would have taken some of it.

>>3247079
So Baldr is someone that would steal from queen without hesitation?

>>3247079

We're not a dick-ass thief.

>>3247099
Yeah he would hesitate but you know it would probably I think it's for the greater good. Because it's for supplies and he needs the money. And when's the last time we've gotten our pay.

Lets just leave then

>>3247099
I think Baldr would take money to help his troops or make them survive longer, he seems like a guy that would do almost anything to help those under him, ever since the goblins we always made what we could to protect our comrads.
But as I want to just move on and get on the road we can pass this up and not take anything, nobody is in immediate danger, the potions would just be a sefety net.

>>3247121
Fine.

>>3246852

>>3246872
>>3246881
>>3246908
>>3246924
>>3246957
>>3246966
>>3246970
>>3247005
>>3247066
>>3247121

Okay looks like there's consensus on leaving. Just for clarity's sake

>Skim money out of the mercenary's loot to resupply potions

>Press on without a resupply

>>3247130
don't take the money but try to resupply at the garrison if they have any healing potions

>>3247135
Support

>>3247135
+1
Let's just get this over with.

>>3247130
>Press on without a resupply

>>3247135
Support

>>3247130
>>Press on without a resupply

So, lets recap what we have to report.

We found dwarven scouts inside imperial territory so they might be preparing a move.
We discovered and dispatched an unregistered magic practitioner that was praying on the border town.
We discovered and eliminated the mercenaries responsible for the raids, making the trade routes safer.
We found a deserter by the name of ____(can't remember) but due to mission priorities he got away.
We discovered that the probable responsible for hiring the mercenaries to disrupt the region was Falanta and the rebels.

>>3247191
Yeah I think that's pretty much it.

>>3247191
Yup, I wonder what Sel thinks about what Falanta did, bringing that chaos to the people that lived there. I guess we were right afterall, Falanta and Quintis are not that different.

>>3247191
>We found dwarven scouts
We could add location of the entrance we used and code word to open it

>>3247225
That too, I agree

>>3247219
from the looks of things the "freedom fighters" are having a hard time getting recruits if they are relying on mercs

>>3247244
I would say it's more of a logistic thing then numbers. If i remember correctly rebels are located in southeastern part of empire. And we are on western border.
>>3247130
QM question do you have timeline?

>>3247266

Timeline of what?

>>3247275
I should ask different question. How many days passed since we left capital?

>>3247287

You've been gone for nearly a month and a half, when you finally get back it will have been 6-8 weeks since you last saw the Capital.

Most of your time was spent traveling to and from the Capital, and traveling between Filt and Turaif so many times.

File: 115317.jpg (23 KB, 450x300)

23 KB JPG

>>3246852

“I plan to head out as soon as I can. If the Queen was ready to recall me from my mission, whatever she needs me for must be important.”

“A wise decision Captain, when you return be sure to give the Royal Spy Master my regards and tell him to stay out of trouble.”

“I will. It was a pleasure working with you Hisa.”

“And you as well Captain, may we meet again, hopefully under better circumstances.”

Farewell given, you depart for the garrison. You didn’t have any coin on you to purchase potions for the return trip, so you decide to ask the garrison’s resident healers if they had anything you could requisition. Unfortunately when you inquire, the healers tell you that they use no such potions, telling you that most of their healing comes from a mixture of herbal medicines and their own skills. So, potion and penniless, you and your companions take off once again, this time on the last leg of your journey. Avoiding the route through the mountains, you take a safer path around them, while slightly longer, you wouldn’t have to deal with any dwarves or rock slides.

The trip is pretty peaceful. Land inside the empire is well patrolled and safe unlike those of the desert folk. Roads pave your way and offer easy routes through the rolling hills. You are stopped occasionally by a patrol, but showing your imperial crest is enough to for them to let you go. You almost don’t want your trip to end, but your duty to the Queen calls and so you answer. Arriving at the towering walls of the Capital, Randolf kisses the stonework. “Ahh, home at last,” he sighs letting his shoulders droop and his posture lax.

You can’t help but feel the same, it’s always nice to be in a secured imperial settlement. Just as you begin to lax your own posture, a figure darts out of an alley mouth and comes up alongside you. You’re about to lash out with your boot in a reflexive kick, when you suddenly realize who the figure is.

(1/3)

File: 133861.jpg (15 KB, 328x445)

15 KB JPG

>>3247555

“Captain Baldr, long time no see. How was the desert, still picking the sand out of your ass crack? I know I would be.”

“Royal Spy Master. Hisa sends his regards and says that you should stay out of trouble.” You say to the impressive figure of the Spy Master.

“Hisa, ah that old cripple he worries too much.” Peaking around you, the Spy Master calls out “Randolf what’s the verdict, is the Captain a traitor?”

“I haven’t decided yet sir, but I’ll have made up my mind by the time I head in for my report.” Randolf says taking a swig from his canteen and offering it to the man.

“Good,” The Spy Master says taking the canteen from Randolf and taking a drink “Aand how are you young lady,” he says sliding back in your group to come up alongside Selenas “Been behaving yourself.”

“I think so,” Selenas responds blushing slightly as the Spy Master kisses the back of her hand and smiles at her.

“Great we’ll make a loyal citizen out of you.” The Spy Master says as he releases her hand comes up to the last member of your party. “And how is my favorite ice queen? Resolved your inner demon yet?”

Mildri gives him a glare you can feel from where you’re standing. “Boy it got chilly out here.” The Spy Master says as pulls his cloak tighter around himself and shivers slightly while he dances his way back up to you again. “Any way I came out here to tell you the Queen is ready for you to deliver your report, head on up the tower, she’s waiting for you.” The Spy Master glances up at the sun before gasping “Oh shit, I’m going to be late. See you later Captain.” Just as quickly as he had appeared the Spy Master steps backwards into an alley and disappears.

How did a person like him become Royal Spy Master, you think to yourself as you and your companions ride toward the Queen’s tower. Arriving at the compound at the base of the towering black obelisk that was the Queen’s tower, you dismount and are greeted by the royal guard. “Captain, the Queen is expecting you,” The guard shoots a look back at your companions “and you alone, your retinue will have to stay here.”

“Understood,” You turn back to your companions “Find an inn and settle in, I this might take a while.”

“Randolf nods and says “We’ll stay at the inn were you stayed last time.”

(2/3)

File: Eyes on you.jpg (52 KB, 760x411)

52 KB JPG

>>3247560

With that, you are lead up the tower and back to the throne room. As you step in front of the Queen for the second time, you realize just how gritty you were, you hadn’t had a proper bath in weeks, or cleaned your armor in forever, you must be one of the sorriest looking sights ever to enter the throne room. The doors to the room slam shut and you wait for the queen to speak. Surprising you however, the Queen descends from the throne to stand in front of you. It is then you realize just how short the Queen really was. She only comes up to your collar bone when she stops to stand in front of you, and she was only that tall because of the high heeled boots she had on.

“So Baldr, I hear you’ve completed your mission, so tell me what you have learned.” You take a deep breath and begin your report, only to be cut off by the Queen. “One moment,” she interrupts, and before your very eyes, the Queen grows in stature until she stands eye level to you. “Start again, but this time look at me when you speak.” Her voice is not harsh, but commanding as she tells you to resume. You begin your report again, this time looking directly into the Queen’s eyes. The second the first word comes out of your mouth, you knew looking in her eyes was a mistake. Her piercing dark blue eyes shift as you speak, her pupil expands occupying and alarming amount of her eye. What little white remained begins glow a golden color, and soon your find that you are no longer in control of your speech. Words tumble out of your mouth every detail of what you had done since you’d left was pour out of you.

>Okay boys, give me some d20s to see if you spill the beans on what happened between you and Selenas during the trip.

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>3247569
Oh no, not our heartbreak, she will laugh at us.

>>3247583
Boooooooooya!
Project turning Selena
Now we must not roll a 1

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>3247569

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3247569

Crit 1 everywhere

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>3247569
I'm gonna roll a 1 and ruin it, won't I?

Hey I was just re-reading the first thread. I was just curious do we still have the seashell necklace. but we looted off the first guy.

>>3247659
I hate autocorrect.

>>3247659
I think we gave it to the goblin lt didn't we?

>>3247659
I believe you still have it.

>>3247675
Shiiiiiiiit, we should get rid of it, having that thing with us undeclared can led to people thinking we are a traitor, and stashing it for that long without telling anyone doesn't bode well.

>>3247689
>reminding QM of this now

>>3247706
Hey, don't look at me.

It was re-reading anon that broght it up.

>>3247727
sure blame me for this I just remember you're the ones who forgot.

>>3247737
By any chance are any of these necklaces traceable by Magic.

File: 225813.png (12 KB, 225x225)

12 KB PNG

>>3247569

>>3247583
>>3247593
>>3247601


>This will be it for me lads my brain is fried. I’ll be up for a while yet so I can answer some questions if you have any.

As your report draws close to Selenas’s rejection, you try to tear your eyes away from the Queen’s but you just can’t do it, so you do the next best thing. You focus everything you have on your mouth. You couldn’t let the Queen find out about you and Selenas. Concentrating hard, you manage to gain control of your mouth, for a few moments, but they were the moments you needed. Phrasing your words carefully, you gloss over event and keep the report going, noticing nothing, the Queen continues to stare into your eyes. When you finally reach the end of your report, the Queen blinks and her eyes return to normal. Exhaustion falls on you like a sack of grain. You feel like you’ve been awake for hours, and the only thing you want to do is fall asleep right there, but as the queen speaks you are pulled back to the here and now. “I should have known that the rebels were behind this. It would make sense that they would try to weaken me now that they’re on the move again.” As the Queen speaks you can feel the lights in the room dim as the shadows creep in. “We’ll have to be extra vigilant for their agents now.” “As for you Baldr,” the Queen turns her attention to you. “You have done stunningly.” The shadows around your recede as the Queen’s tone changes to a happy almost girlish chirping. “Not only did you uncover the mercenary’s client, but you also saved me the trouble of wiping them out. That and their treasure horde will do wonders for the treasury. In thanks for such a wonderful job I will be granting you a boon along with your monthly pay. So what will it be?”

>Extra gold is never bad
>Another magical item from her armory would do, your armor has served you well so far.
>Something else[Specify]

>>3247727
Besides if this ends up going up in a fire at least he gave us great character development.

>>3247753
Well we're herbalist now right so ask her if she has any good Herb's (weed). Or or just an Alchemy primer book then, so we can start making potions.

>>3247745

Don't worry about the necklace you can throw it away after this, its in your pack along with a dozen other things.

>>3247777
When we do, why don't we have Sel do it.

>>3247753
I would like a piece of land so we could go there when we are on leave, you know, start building that retirement fund for when we become a healer.

But if that is not possible, a magic item will do, a weapon or acessory this time.

>>3247753
Ok, I have to ask, what would she do if we told her.

>>3247777
Hey do you guys remember that assessing girl from I think from thread 6. Well we could have Sel try to convince her to change side. And at the end of it so you can her smash the necklace. To show how she is. I think it's a good idea.

>>3247863
I think that girl escaped or something, it was mentioned in a narrative section that the rebels were trying to free her or something......that or I'm just drunk and misremenbering things.

>>3247863
Oh autocorrect.

>>3247868
It wasn't thread 17. But their mistress didn't let them go get her.

>>3247931
That wasn't was supposed to be a was.

>>3247854

If you had talked about Selenas's rejection, the Queen would have laughed at you, but not in a mean way, she would find it very amusing and slightly sad, "You two would have made a great couple."

>>3247942
Well, we can still be it, we were too forward I guess, lets give it time and not presure things I think

>>3247942
Good thing she didn't get to mock us, it would only hurt even more.

Thanks for running.

>>3247942
Hey will we see Kason anytime soon. I have a feeling people like him live a long time.

>>3247978

You may, he was resourceful enough to survive the elven war, and you. There's no telling where he'll go next.

>>3247985
The way you wrote that makes it sound like we're a type of calamity.

>>3247992

Well every one who has ever crossed you has died, sometimes horrifically.

>>3247999
This makes me curious how many of our old allies are still alive in the elfin front. And how many of them are running around the country making a mess.

File: 923156.jpg (29 KB, 428x500)

29 KB JPG

>>3248038

Very few my friend, oh so very few

>>3248048
Hey where is our Hometown, Village Place located anyway?

File: Map.jpg (50 KB, 520x432)

50 KB JPG

>>3248063

>>3248130
Okay so our family safe. So does the Empire have slaves.

>>3248159

No, but there is indentured servitude. local nobles used to own slaves, but one of it was one of the Queen's reforms that ended the practice.

>>3248187
Well there goes the idea of having an orchard filled with Elven slaves. So who was the queen / King before the current one. were they like terrible or just normal or great.

>>3248198
well if they allowed eleven slaves they must have been great:^)

>>3248198

The previous king was just normal, but really he had no power at all, he was elected by the largest noble families as more of a figure head and puppet, while they held all the real power. Queen Quintis's coup ended all that. She centralized the power of the state and cut back on the power of the nobility. Most of the economic, technological, military, and social advancements you see were caused by Quintis and her rule.

If that makes you ask why anyone would rebel against her if she's done all this good. Then let me tell you that the Quintis's rule has lasted 100 years, most people have forgotten a lot of the good things she's done, or those that remember what life was like before her are dead.

>>3248302
So for a hundred years the Empire has been prosperous. And now a bunch of upstart children compared to the queen want the throne. Well s*** I wouldn't be surprised if she went ballistic on them. Okay so what was the Empire before it was the empire was it a Federation of small kingdoms working together or something like that. Or was it like a bunch of smaller kingdoms vying for dominance over the others. I was at something completely else.

>>3248340
Oh auto correct. How I hate you.

>>3248302
the real question though is she single

>>3248441
that's suicide, stop that train of thought right now..

>>3248457
dose who dare win
and any don't worry our breast plate can survive a fatal strike

>>3248469
those* anyway*

>>3248469
That's a bad idea in general. This is like the last boss like from any game you've ever played. And you want to get romantically involved with that sort of person. Listen suicide can be painful and should be avoided at all costs.

>>3248496
what greater romantic conquest is there a true test of baldurs character and polearm skills

>>3248517
Yeah that's not going to happen. Not with our rolls anyway. So either we get a ladies man perk or something. Are we do the logical thing and not even try.

>>3248535
That are was supposed to be or. 00 autocorrect.

>>3248340

Yes it was a small collection of kingdoms that were united into one big one under a mutual leader. After that leader died however, the kingdoms had no real reason to stay together, but by staying loosely allied under a single king, the other kingdoms could conquer as they pleased without having to worry about their neighbors attacking them.

>>3248441
yes she is single, and has been that way for 100 years, and before you think hitting on her is smart. The last batch of suitors sent to marry her, went insane after she burrowed into their minds to find out their true motives in marrying her.

>>3248583
so you're telling me there's a chance as long as we survive the mental saves

>>3248583
Okay so I imagine it was like the same as the Sengoku period or The Hundred Years' War in Europe. And for the other guy please stop trying to convince us to woo her ,it's not going to end well.

>Okay I'm off to bed see you anons tomorrow Just so we're clear the vote currently stands at

>>3247770
1 for alchemy primer
>>3247823
1 for territory

So get those votes in.

>>3249005
[red]test[/red]

>>3249138
Test

>>3249339
[blue]test[/blue]

>>3247753
>Another magical item from her armory would do, your armor has served you well so far.
Never can go wrong with that. Increase our survivability, give us very expensive item. Improves our abilities as agent.

>>3249005
as much as I would like to get a farm to retire with Selenas, we can ask for that when we are closer to retirement, for now we need something to make us reach that retirement

>Another magical item from her armory would do, your armor has served you well so far.

I wonder how much is a captains pay

>>3249005

>Another magical item from her armory would do, your armor has served you well so far.

File: Take your pick.jpg (130 KB, 1024x768)

130 KB JPG

>>3249005

>>3249718
>>3249820
>>3250292

>Magical items it is

“If I may your Majesty, I would request another item from your armory. This armor has served me well and saved my life on many occasions, another item would no doubt do the same.”

The Queen looks you up and down, and then runs a finger along your breast plate collecting a pile of grime on her finger. She frowns at the mess “I don’t know if I should with the mess you’ve made of the armor I gave you.” She looks up at you still frowning, but her frown quickly falls away into gentle smile “Then again, it has saved you before and since you’ve proven to be a valuable asset worth maintaining. I will let you take another item. Now you are dismissed, until I call you for next assignment.”

“Thank you your Majesty,” you say bowing low and backing your way out of her throne room. As soon as the doors slam shut you nearly fall over, but are quickly steadied by one of the door guards who whispers in your ear. “Easy there Captain, you’re fine now.” The man holds on to you until you finally gain the wherewithal to stand on your own strength.

“Thank you,” you mutter to the guard.

“It’s nothing Captain, you’re not the first agent I’ve had to pick off the floor today,”

“Captain Baldr, this way if you please,” comes the old and grumpy muttering of the Chamberlain. Standing at the end of the hallway, the Chamberlain beckons you to follow him. Staggering forward you follow the man down the tower and to the Queen’s armory. “Take one item, and try not to touch everything, I just finished polishing all of it.” The Chamberlain grumbles.

He wasn’t lying, every piece of metal and jewel in the well-stocked armory glinted and shone. You survey the room carefully as you decide what to take.

>Head over to the weapons racks (usually grant damage bonuses, as well as combat bonuses)
>Examine the pieces of armor (usually grant defense bonuses and some utility bonuses)
>Check out the accessory and ring displays (Mostly utility bonuses and a minor combat boost)

>>3250480

>Weapons racks

Let's go +5 Vorpal Halberd of Can-Opening!

>>3250480
check out the armor maybe there's something new there since last time. the breastplate was pretty good so hopefully there's something similar over there.

>>3250480

>Head over to the weapons racks (usually grant damage bonuses, as well as combat bonuses)

Some bonuses to rolls to win exchanges would be very nice.

>>3250480
>Check out the accessory and ring displays (Mostly utility bonuses and a minor combat boost)
Utility is the best

>>3250480
>Check out the accessory and ring displays (Mostly utility bonuses and a minor combat boost)

>>3250503
Supporting

>>3250480
Check out the accessory and ring displays (Mostly utility bonuses and a minor combat boost), change my mind.

Can we check both? If we can't I'll roll my vote, can't really decide.

>>3250676

Yeah you can check both, but it will take me some time to think of the items

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3250686
I'll roll to save some time then.

1 i vote wepons
2 I vote acessories

File: 18154341.jpg (506 KB, 1152x864)

506 KB JPG

>>3250480

Your first stop is to the nearby weapon racks 3 weapons in particular. The handle of the first sword you see seems to shiver in its scabbard. You reach out and pick up the weapon as the Chancellor explains its properties. “That is the Blade of Discord, a finely made weapon, it cuts one’s connection to the world around them.” As the Chancellor speaks, you pull the sword from its scabbard and immediately, his words distort and grow faint as the edges of your vision start to blur and run away, while color itself drains out from the world. Realizing he was no longer being heard, the Chancellor reaches out and slips the scabbard back on to the sword. All at once the world comes back and the Chancellor shouts his unheard warning into your ear “One has to be careful when using less they sever themselves and not their enemies from the world!”

Placing the sword back down, you move on to the next weapon that had caught your eye. A sword with a white handle, that seemed to be made out of pearl or ivory. Freeing the weapon from its scabbard, you find only the faint image of blade sticking out of the hilt. “Ah, that is an Incorporeal Sword, this one’s name is Soul Render. No normal armor can protect you from this blade and should you be cut by this particular blade, not only blood, but your soul itself will drain from the wound.” You carefully return the sword to its scabbard being careful not to let the blade touch your hand.

You come to the last weapon that had grabbed your attention. It was an imperious looking glaive, you reach out to take the weapon in your hand only to have it smacked away by the Chamberlain “I thought I told you not to touch everything. This is known as the Untouchable’s Glaive. Its last owner claimed to have never been struck in battle. Everyone who faced him couldn’t lay even a scratch on him and fell to this weapon. That was until the Queen ripped his arms off, he wasn’t so untouchable then.”
>Blade of Discord: +3 to damage and enemies in your immediate area don’t receive the Battle Buddy bonus.

>Incorporeal Sword: Ignores non-magical enemy armor, when you hit an enemy for more than 5 hp they will be dealt 2 hp per turn for the remainder of the fight.

>Untouchable Glaive: +2 to damage. Every turn in combat that you don’t take damage, the enemy will have 1 point taken off their dice (This is cumulative so 3 turns without taking damage = -3 to their dice)

(1/2)

File: 125372.jpg (57 KB, 400x400)

57 KB JPG

>>3251048

You stare at the weapons for a bit before something on the artifacts table catches your eye. A small ring that looked to be made of intertwined pieces of grass, and gave off the scent of hay, grasses and flowers. Sighing heavily the Chamberlain tells you about the ring. “This is the Youths Ring, it is said to grant is wearer the boundless life and energy of youth. Something I sorely need.”

Moving on you notice a censor sitting on the table, examining it closely you notice a cloud of incense sitting inside the thing already. “That is the Master’s Censor it grants one mastery of whatever one tries when inside the smoke it creates. It was being used a particularly greedy merchant to turn local bums into acrobats which he would use to perform shows for money, before it was confiscated.”

Next to the censor was a small little medallion made into a necklace. A strange symbol was carved into its golden surface. As you try to examine the symbol, you begin to feel faint and strangely cold. Snatching the Medallion off the table the Chamberlain hisses “Careful with that, this thing will cut your soul out from your body and let you wander the spirit world, and let me tell you that is some place you don’t want to be especially not here. The Queen has traps to ensnare and destroy spirits that wander to close to the tower as most spirits sent her way are malevolent. Clutching the medallion close the Chamberlain asks “So, have you made up your mind yet, I have more important things to do than stand around here.”


>Youths Ring: +5 to your max hp and athletic feats are easier for you to perform.

>Master’s Censor: All skill checks made within the clouds of incense from censor are easier, inhaling the smoke before battle give you +1 to your dice damage.

>Medallion of Separation: Cleaves the users spirit from their body, allowing one to converse with nearby spirits, but be warned the spirit world is very dangerous and not all spirits are helpful.

>>3251052

>Untouchable Glaive: +2 to damage. Every turn in combat that you don’t take damage, the enemy will have 1 point taken off their dice (This is cumulative so 3 turns without taking damage = -3 to their dice)

>>3251048
>>Blade of Discord: +3 to damage and enemies in your immediate area don’t receive the Battle Buddy bonus.

>>3251052

>Untouchable Glaive: +2 to damage. Every turn in combat that you don’t take damage, the enemy will have 1 point taken off their dice (This is cumulative so 3 turns without taking damage = -3 to their dice)


The blade of discord doesn't seem nice se

>>3251107
Hear our allies and we are a commander

>>3251052
Untouchable Glaive: +2 to damage. Every turn in combat that you don’t take damage, the enemy will have 1 point taken off their dice (This is cumulative so 3 turns without taking damage = -3 to their dice). But I do want to come back for the Censor later.

>>3251048
>Incorporeal Sword: Ignores non-magical enemy armor, when you hit an enemy for more than 5 hp they will be dealt 2 hp per turn for the remainder of the fight.

This is just so fucking op there is no reason not to pick it.

>>3251048

>Untouchable Glaive: +2 to damage. Every turn in combat that you don’t take damage, the enemy will have 1 point taken off their dice (This is cumulative so 3 turns without taking damage = -3 to their dice)

We're a Polearm fighter, let's stick with it.

File: Glaive.jpg (73 KB, 1280x720)

73 KB JPG

>>3251052

>>3251076
>>3251107
>>3251130
>>3251240

You survey the magical items once more, until your eyes finally settle on the Untouchable Glaive. You started your days out as another recruit swinging a shortsword, but after all this time spent with your halberd you’ve come to like polearms more than anything else as a weapon. Hefting the weapon off of its rack you feel certain confidence, as you hold the weapon, almost as if just by holding this thing you are invincible. “Is that your choice?” The Chamberlain grumbles.

“Yes, I’ll take the Glaive.”

“Hmph, let’s hope you prove more untouchable than its last master. Here the Queen has instructed me to give you your pay for this month as well.” The Chamberlain hands you a substantial pouch of gold coins. “500 Gold, standard pay.”

As the Chamberlain hands you the gold, something behind him catches your eye. Stepping from seemingly out of nowhere was the Royal Spymaster. Gently he picks the Incorporeal Sword from off its rack and creeps toward the armory door. Just before he passes through it however, he is tugged to a stop by the sword. Pulling hard, the Spymaster tries to drag the sword past the doors threshold, but is unable to do so. Noticing your lack of attention, the Chamberlain loudly proclaims “I didn’t just polish the weapons as you can see.” I also put ward seals on both them and the door, so that no item may leave here without my permission. As you can no doubt see from the Royal Spymaster’s shameful display the wards work quite well.”

The Chamberlain taps your glaive with one of the rings on his hand, and your weapon glows brighter for a moment before returning to normal. “You’re free to go now Captain, unless you wish to see the Royal Spymaster finally receive his punishment for stealing from the Royal Armory.” The Chamberlain flashes you a sadistic smile as he pulls a pair of manacles from the depths of his robes and begins advancing the Spymaster.”

“My dear friend,” The Royal Spymaster begins “If you remember correctly, the Queen forgave me for taking the cloak. In fact she said I could keep it did she not.”

“Oh I remember, but she also said that she would not forgive your thievery a second time.”

“She did, did she, I suppose I zoned out for that bit, but worry not Chamberlain I did not come here just to steal this sword. I came here to test your new security measure and I must say you’ve done a wonderful job, but I think you missed one tiny detail.”

“Oh have I now.”

(1/2)

File: 1695786.jpg (24 KB, 500x322)

24 KB JPG

>>3251428

“Yes, you forgot that simple wards such as these cannot hold a man like me back.” The Spymaster touches a ring of his own to the sword, and pulls the blade past the threshold. The Chamberlain expression turns from one of sadistic glee to incomparable rage as the Spy Master dashes out the door and down the hall his laughs echoing after him.

“It won’t be so easy this time.” The Chamberlain mutters, with a snap of his fingers, the hallway outside the armory shifts and thousands upon thousands of traps magical and mechanical activate and are sprung. Explosions ring out down the hall followed by the grinding of gears, the clang of metal and thumps of stone.

Over the racket though, you hear the Spy Master shout “You’re going to have try harder to catch me Grumbles,” before letting out a gleeful yelp that is followed by a particularly loud boom.

The Chamberlain’s face was almost purple by now and he his next words to you are said very carefully. “See yourself out Captain the way to the elevator isn’t trapped.” Lifting his hands in the air the Chamberlain taps to of his rings together and disappears from the armory.

Glaive and pay in hand you stagger out of the armory and leave the tower behind. Stepping out on to the street outside the tower’s compound, you feel almost one hundred years older. You can almost hear the inn and a soft bed calling you, but the clink of the gold in you pouch calls to the markets for spending.

>Just head to the inn and rest
>You’ve got money to spend and empty pockets to fill with supplies
>[Write In]

>>3251434
>You’ve got money to spend and empty pockets to fill with supplies

Lets buy those pots.

>>3251434
>You’ve got money to spend and empty pockets to fill with supplies

>>3251434
Earlier I asked to write a letter home. We should still write it. And send it to with some money for someone else to read it.

>>3251504
The letter was a nice touch yes.

File: 2623487.jpg (93 KB, 475x317)

93 KB JPG

>>3251434

>>3251464
>>3251469
>>3251504

The clink of gold was louder than the siren song of sleep and so you make your way down to the Capital’s markets. The markets were probably larger than most peasant towns, and navigating your way to the section full of armorers, swordsmiths, and alchemists was earned several unlucky people your boots on their toes. Nonetheless you arrive and take stock of what the local merchants have to offer.

Current Gold: 500

>Letter cost: (For paper, the ink, and courier fees) 20 gold

Armors:
>Durable Travel Clothes (no bonus) 10 Gold
>Shield (+2 defense) 15 Gold
>Light (+1 defense) 20 Gold
>Medium (+2 defense) 40 Gold
>Heavy (+3 defense) 80 Gold

Weapons: (all are of good quality +1 to attack)
>Short Swords 10 Gold
>Maces (ignores 1 enemy armor) 15 Gold
>Polearms (+1 to defense when fighting defensively) 15 Gold
>War Hammers (ignores 2 enemy armor) 20 Gold
>Two-Handed Swords (+1 to attack when fighting aggressively) 20 Gold

Alchemic Goods:
>Healing potions (10 gold a piece)
>Energy potions [gets rid of wounded combat maluses] (10 gold a piece)
>Rage Potions [while active +2 attack -2 defense] (15 gold a piece)
>Owl Sight [night vision] (10 gold a piece)
>Witch’s Brew [Lowers cast times by 2 turns and adds 2 Energy to casters] (10 gold a piece)
>Explosive Grenado [Ranged Attack] (15 Gold a piece)
>Flash Grenado [Ranged Attack -3 to dice damage for 1 round to those affected] (15 Gold a piece)
>Smoke Grenado [Ranged Attack -2 to dice damage for those in its radius] (15 Gold a piece)

> (items you sell that are common are worth ½ their buying price)
>Take a trip over to the baubles merchant, he might have something infused with magic.
>Look for something in particular [Write In]

>>3251793

If you don't see something you think should be here shout it out.

>>3251793
Letter cost: (For paper, the ink, and courier fees) 20 gold
Healing potions 2, 20 gold
>Energy potions 2 [gets rid of wounded combat maluse 20 gold
Explosive Grenado 2 [Ranged Attack] 30
Total 90 gold.
Take a trip over to the baubles merchant, he might have something infused with magic.

>>3251793
a simple restock

>3 Healing potions (10 gold a piece)
>3 Energy potions [gets rid of wounded combat maluses] (10 gold a piece)
>1 Owl Sight [night vision] (10 gold a piece)
>1 Witch’s Brew [Lowers cast times by 2 turns and adds 2 Energy to casters] (10 gold a piece)
>2 Explosive Grenado [Ranged Attack] (15 Gold a piece)
>1 Smoke Grenado [Ranged Attack -2 to dice damage for those in its radius] (15 Gold a piece)
the smoke if we ever face damn archers again

>Letter cost: (For paper, the ink, and courier fees) 20 gold
I feel like a witcher with all these vials kek

let's hit the bed, passing through the queens interrogatory was a pain and we need the rest

>>3251845
This shop list

but instead of going back visit the trinkets salesman

>>3251845
All together that 145 Gs.

>>3251877
money spent on survival and utility is money well spent

>>3251894
you have misunderstood me with good sir. I just want to know how much money we're going to have left.

>>3251873
Agreed.

See if we can find a bottle of some nice drink to celebrate our promotion and first mission since we didn't have the time, we won't get drunk on it but we appreciate the taste.

>>3251903
indeed I have, sorry.

>>3251917
It's fine

I'll change my vote to this if it get's the story moving again soon.
>>3251845

>>3251845
+Support

Writing...

Also tell me how you want that split up

>>3252043
one healing and energy with sel

witch's brew with Midri and we keep the rest

File: Have a drink.jpg (11 KB, 600x400)

11 KB JPG

>>3252043

>There might be one more update coming late tonight, but if I don't get to it goodnight.

Purchasing the needed supplies you head back to the inn so that you can finally get some rest. Coming in through the front door of the inn you find your companions, and oddly enough the Royal Spymaster sitting at a table enjoying an afternoon drink. The Spymaster himself looked a little worse for wear, his face was blacked with soot and he had a cut across one cheek. His cloths were extremely ragged with holes and slices taken out of the thing and yet there at his hip was the Incorporeal Sword. “There he is, the man of the hour, how was your report to the Queen?” The Spymaster bellows across the inn’s mostly empty barroom.

“Tiring,”

“Yeah she’s like that,” The Spymaster says understandingly, “Why don’t you sit down and have a drink with us. Trust me, It’ll make you feel better.” He says gesturing to the chair next to the table

>No, I just need some sleep, see you all in the morning.
>Why not, and while you’re at it do you mind explaining to me how a man like you even became Royal Spymaster.
>Sure, you can fill me in on what’s been going on since we left.
>[Write In]

>>3252197

>His face was blackend with soot

>>3252197
>>Sure, you can fill me in on what’s been going on since we left.

it's not always we can get the gossip from the spymaster, let's endure a little longer

>>3252197
Why not, and while you’re at it do you mind explaining to me how a man like you even became Royal Spymaster.

>>3252197

>Why not, and while you’re at it do you mind explaining to me how a man like you even became Royal Spymaster.

>>3252234
>>3252244
These

File: Advancements.jpg (40 KB, 520x432)

40 KB JPG

>>3252197

>>3252234
>>3252244
>>3252285
>>3252353

>This will be all from me tonight.

Fighting off your weariness, you shamble over and plop yourself down in a seat next to the Royal Spymaster. “Why not, and while you’re doing that, would you mind telling me how in the hell a man like you became Royal Spymaster?”

Pouring you a mug of whatever he was drinking, the Spymaster laughs heartily “I’m not what most people expect, that’s why. Most people expect a spymaster to be some hunched over old man who plots the downfall of nations from a dark hole in the ground. So who better to be the actual spymaster than the least spymastery person there is. Don’t let my appearance and genial fool you though, I am good at what I do. I suspect you’ll find out just how good I am soon.”

“What’s that supposed to mean.” Selenas cuts in worriedly.

“Relax sweetie, I didn’t mean it as a threat. No, I have a feeling you and I are going to be deployed to the same place very soon.”

“Why’s that?” Randolf asks drinking deeply from his own mug.

“The rebels are on the move again. You did a good job of delaying them Baldr, but as long as Falenta is still alive, those fools won’t quit, they’ve advanced further north and west around the Capital, gaining strength from the villages she’s captured. We believe her next move will be to hit the Capital itself. Thanks to the time you bought us though, we’ve pulled lot of the troops together to face her. We plan to face her in open battle, outside the city where the queen can work more of her magic without damaging the city.”

“An army of peasants versus professional soldiers, ha it’ll be a slaughter.” Randolf laughs.

“Not so fast there commissar our scouts say that Falenta’s been supplementing her troops with more and more mercenaries and foreign fighters. It’s likely that she’ll use the peasants as fodder to wear us down then have the mercenaries deal the killing blows. She’s hired or coerced every mercenary band and sellsword in the south to fight for her, as well as convinced several of the swamp tribes to ally with her. She’s got more than just peasants fighting for her now.”

“What are our odds,” Mildri asks coolly

“Not great, they have us outnumbered about three to one and at the rate they pick up troops that might change to four to one by the time the battle actually starts. That’s why I said you and I might be working together soon Baldr. The whole reason the Queen’s been recalling agents is for clandestine work against the rebels.”

“What kind of clandestine work?” you ask.

“That has yet to be decided, once have all the agents here that we can get arrive, the Queen will decide what requires whose attention, and I have a few scouts and informants reports that I’m still waiting on.”

“So this is it, she’s actually going to try it.” Selenas mutters to herself.

(1/2)

File: 1624842.jpg (97 KB, 635x494)

97 KB JPG

>>3253245

“Yep lass, when the armies finally meet, the future ruler of this nation will be decided.” The Spymaster’s words seem to echo around the room silencing all noise, even the sounds from the street outside the inn fall away. The silence hangs for an uncomfortably long moment, before being broken by the Spymaster himself, “But that’s days away yet, don’t worry we’ll have time to finish our drinks yet.” He drinks down the rest of his mug in a single gulp and slams it down on the table. Rising to his feet, the spymaster says “Well it was nice chatting with you all, but I’ve got to get going, you’d be surprised how little gets done when I’m not around.” The Spymaster gets three steps toward the door, when a loud boom rocks the inn. The Spymaster hurries to the door and peaks outside “Oh dear, Captain, would you mind distracting him for a minute? Great.” The Spymaster says as he backs in to the inn and rushes upstairs.

“What was that?” Selenas gasps.

Pulling yourself onto your feet, you grumble “Probably the Chamberlain here for his sword back. You head to the front door and peak outside, but instead of an angry Chamberlain, you find yourself staring up a giant of a man dusting bricks off of his massive armored body. Slung over the giants shoulder was a familiar looking body. You are nearly knocked over by Selenas who rushes into the door way next to you “Caulder!?” she blurts out. The giant lifts his head in recognition and turns your way. “Selenas!?”

>Pull Selenas back and take cover in the inn.
>Address the giant, tell him to surrender.
>Attack the giant while he’s stunned.
>[Write In]

>>3253249
well s*** today is just not my day. tell our commissar to go inform literally anyone of great importance to send a spy to follow this traitor once we're done with him. Next we tell Selena 2 Act well enough to stall for time. Then we invite him over for a drink and sit down.

"Falenta's protector and shield I see. come here I'll buy you a drink and we can have a nice chat and if you don't like what I say. well go out and have ourselves a dual. after all we are in the middle of the city, we wouldn't want to get any innocent people involved. And besides I'm extremely tired and would rather like to enjoy my drink right now. and the fact considering you're in the heart of enemy territory, I don't think you want your cover blown just yet."

>>3253357
if he does come and sit down ask him "why exactly do you fight?"

>>3253249
>Address the giant, tell him to surrender

He is rescuing the thief girl

>>3253249
>Stop right there criminal scum!
Whos body is it?
Because depending on that we definitely would change approach.

>>3253249
>Address the giant, tell him to surrender.
push Selenas behind us, the guy might try to get her

>>3253468
I'm willing to bet it's That girl we captured, he is on a rescue mission, and probably thinks he has to grab Selenas too

>>3253368
>>3253466
>>3253516
Do you guys think, spymaster knew who was behind that door?

>>3253639
yes

>>3253639
and he also asked us to stall him for a minute so I think talking is a good move

>>3253643
I think we end up on letting him go.
Wouldn't be a surprise this is queen plot. Letting brainwashed assassin go. Or letting big guy lead us to his allies

>>3253649
I don't think she was brainwashed, just tortured to no end.
anyway, what I'm really worried about is that he tries to "rescue" Selenas too, so we should stand before her here

>>3253516
This, get before her, he will try to grab her too.

>>3253468
Supporting that.

File: 159319.jpg (175 KB, 1192x670)

175 KB JPG

>>3253249

>>3253466
>>3253468
>>3253516
>>3253923
>>3253980

You quickly brush Selenas aside and stand in between her and the giant. Addressing the tower of armor, you say “Halt, drop the girl Caulder and surrender.”

“Unhand Selenas you fiend, lest I mash you into the cobble stones.” Caulder says hefting an impressively large warhammer off his shoulder and pointing it at you.

“Caulder stop this,” Selenas calls out from behind you “These people aren’t the monster’s you think they are.”

“How can you say that after what’ve done to Valenca. The poor girl is in terrible shape.”

“What about what we’ve done, were hardly innocent ourselves. Please Caulder listen to me.” Selenas pleads emotion swelling in her voice.

“Oh no, they’ve brainwashed you. Don’t worry lass I’ll rescue you, Falenta will be able to undo whatever magic they’ve cursed you with. Now I won’t ask again, release Selenas or face my hammer!” The giant shouts at you.

“Caulder please,” Selenas cries as you tighten your grip on your new Glaive. It looked like talking wasn’t going to work on this guy, at least not this time. As you prepare to face off against Caulder, something above the giants head catches you eye. On the rooftop behind the giant, you watch as the Royal Spymaster leaps from the building and lands on the man’s shoulders. Almost immediately the Spymaster brings the Incoporeal Sword down trying to stab the giant in the neck. You watch as the sword punches downward and then deflects off the giant’s armor as with a subtle shrug of his shoulder Caulder blocks the Spymaster’s blow. Reaching up faster than you thought possible for man of his size, Caulder grabs the Spymaster by the ankle and pulls him off of his shoulders. He swings the Spymaster around his head, but before he can throw him, the Spymaster jabs his sword into a less armored portion of the giants hand and kicks himself free. The Spymaster is sent flying down the street, but he lands as gracefully as a cat and is soon back on his feet and charging the giant. “I could use a hand here Captain.” The Spymaster shouts as he approaches the giant once again.

You take a step out the door, but Selenas grabs on to you. “No Baldr, don’t go. I can talk to him, I can convince him to surrender. Please Baldr let me talk to him.”

“No Selenas, Caulder’s made his choice, there’s nothing you could say to him now.” Randolf says placing his hand on Selenas’s shoulder. “Go on Captain, I’ll keep her safe.”

>Let Selenas try to talk Caulder down.
>Join the Spymaster, he’ll need your help.
>[Write In]

>>3254771

>Join the Spymaster, he'll need your help.

>>3254771
>Join the Spymaster, he’ll need your help.
Let's do this!

>>3254771
>>Let Selenas try to talk Caulder down.

Talk to him, I'll try to keep him busy.

join the fight but encourage Selenas to keep trying to talk some sense into him

>>3254771
>[Write In]

" Try to talk some sense in him, I'll hold it off and help the Spymaster, he's gonna get killed"

I see it this way, she eithers calm him down enough for him to back down or she distract him enough to hive us and edge, she should talk, if he doubts himself he is a step closer to surrender or subjugation.

>>3254791
+1

>>3254791
This.

Try to get the spymaster out of there, if she fails to convonce him we can alway re-engage.

File: 158273.jpg (553 KB, 2000x1373)

553 KB JPG

>>3254771

>>3254787
>>3254791
>>3254805
>>3254807
>>3254823

“You can keep trying Selenas, but the Spymaster is in trouble, I have to help him. Randolf, let’s give the Spymaster a hand.”

Randolf gives Selenas an uneasy look, but follows you nonetheless as you rush to engage Caulder. Behind you hear Mildri beginning some kind of incantation as Selenas shouts to Caulder.

>Okay gentlemen give me some d20s

Also in the interest of making things a little simpler, I will be rolling for your companions during the fight.

Baldur Blooddragon

>HP: 20/20

>Attack Bonuses:
>Untouchable Glaive +2

>Defense Bonuses:
>Full Armor +3

>Misc. Effects:
>Experienced +2 to dice
>Battle Buddies + 5 to dice

VS.

Caulder Iron Heart

>HP: Healthy

>Attack Bonuses:
>Judgement + 3

>Defense Bonuses:
>Impervious Armor + 5

>Misc. Effects:
>Expert + 4 to dice
>Precious Cargo - 2 to dice

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>3255073

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>3255073

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>3255073

Rolled 88 (1d100)

>>3255073

Rolled 18, 9, 9 = 36 (3d20)

>>3255073

>Caulder

Rolled 15, 13, 19 = 47 (3d20)

>>3255073

>Randolf

Rolled 15, 10, 15 = 40 (3d20)

>>3255073

>Spymaster

Rolled 13, 3, 13 = 29 (3d20)

>>3255073

Rolled 13, 9, 3 = 25 (3d20)

>>3255260

>>3255260
>>3255262

>Oh that's not good

Well....we're fucked

File: Got Yo Gurl.jpg (23 KB, 386x217)

23 KB JPG

>>3255073

>>3255106
>>3255188
>>3255192
>>3255202
>>3255208
>>3255210
>>3255260
>>3255262

Your rolls: 11,1,14 = (9)/2 crit fail +2 [Experienced] + 5[Battle Buddy] +1 [Stance] = 13
Enemy rolls: 18,9,9 = (12) +4 [Expert] -2 [Precious Cargo]= 14
13 – 14 = -1 damage

Bonuses: -1 – 3[Judgement] + 1 [Armor](reduced because of Judgement) = 3 Damage received

You all close in on the Giant as Selenas speaks “Caulder, please, this whole war has brought nothing but suffering and pain to the people we are leading. I beg of you stop this.”

Unfazed by her words, Caulder sweeps wide with his hammer trying to catch all of you in his swing. Randolf rolls under the swing and slams his mace in to Caulder hip, but to no effect as the hammer swings your way. Unable to get out of the way in time, the hammer clips your breastplate sending you spinning backwards and onto the ground. As the hammer arcs its way toward the Spymaster, he dashes forward ahead of the strike and delivers another blow to the giant, but to no avail, his sword bounces off Caulder’s thick armor plates. Untouched and with you knocked down, Caulder sees an opening. Dashing forwards, he reaches out for Selenas who had moved too far from the safety of the inn. Caulder grabs Selenas by the arm and despite her desparate struggling, she can’t break free from Caulders grip. Hoisting her up Caulder tucks Selenas under his arm. “I’ve got you now child, don’t worry. They won’t be able to harm you now.” Caulder says trying to soothe the squirming Selenas.

“No, Caulder let me go.” Selenas screams as Caulder reaches up and pulls something off from around his neck and holds it up high in the air. Suddenly Caulder’s armor begins to shimmer and shine.

“Get up Captain,” Randolf shouts hauling you to your feet. “He’s got Selenas, and I don’t like the way his armor’s shining, we’ve got to stop him now!”


Fighting stance:
>Offensive stance: + 2 to your damage +1 to your dice
>Defensive stance: +2 to your defense -1 to your damage
>Balanced stance: No bonuses
>Perform Action [Specify]
>Give orders to your companions [Specify] -1 to damage and defense


Baldur Blooddragon

>HP: 17/20

>Attack Bonuses:
>Untouchable Glaive +2

>Defense Bonuses:
>Full Armor +3

>Misc. Effects:
>Experienced +2 to dice
>Battle Buddies + 5 to dice

VS.

Caulder Iron Heart

>HP: Healthy

>Attack Bonuses:
>Judgement + 3

>Defense Bonuses:
>Impervious Armor + 5

>Misc. Effects:
>Expert + 4 to dice
>Precious Cargo - 2 to dice

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>3255289

>Offensive Stance

>>3255306
>>3255289

Also, go for the joints, especially the elbow, armpit, and back of the knee

>>3255309
+1
Offence stance

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>3255289
Forgot about dice.

I'm going to call it a night here. Unfortunately I'm going to be extremely busy tomorrow and I will probably only be able to push out one update and it will most likely be coming late tomorrow

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>3255289
Oh comon, damn.

>>3255309
This.

Man what a shitshow, hope the rolls are enough to, if not get her loose, at lesst get into touching range to go along fot the transport.

Hope Midri is cooking something to help with her casting

Shit guys, I hope 2 successes are enough, I'm worried.

Rolled 1, 8, 4 = 13 (3d20)

>>3255289

>Caulder

Rolled 10, 18, 8 = 36 (3d20)

>>3255289

>Randolf

Rolled 11, 15, 2 = 28 (3d20)

>>3255289

>Spymaster

Rolled 20, 18, 5 = 43 (3d20)

>>3258128

>>3258190

You lucky fucks

>>3258128
wew boy he's fucked

>>3258190
is this selenas?

>>3258226

Yes

File: 159437.jpg (32 KB, 400x383)

32 KB JPG

>>3255289

>>3255306
>>3255337
>>3255491
>>3258128
>>3258129
>>3258134
>>3258190

Your rolls: 16,3,18 = (12) +2 [Experienced] + 5[Battle Buddies] +1 [Stance] = 20
Enemy rolls: 1,8,4 = (4)/2 crit fail +4 [Expert] -2 [Precious Cargo]= 4
20 – 4 = 16 damage

Bonuses: 16 + 2[Untouchable Glaive] + 2[Stance] - 5 [Impervious Armor] = 15 Damage Dealt


>This will be my only post of the night.

You couldn’t lose her, not now, not after everything you’d done. Not after all the suffering you and her had endured. “SELENAS!” you bellow as you charge the glowing giant. With his arm raised high in the air like that, Caulder had exposed his less armored under arm. Bringing your glaive low to the ground, you cleave upward into the giant’s arm pit. Your glaive sinks deep into the giants flesh and Caulder lets out a pained groan as your glaive slices through his arm. You feel the weapon stop as it contacts the man’s bone and you quickly slide your glaive back out as Caulder clamps his arm back down over the wound. Distracted by your blow, Randolf and the Spymaster also manage to find breaks in the giant’s armor and deliver other minor blows. Swarmed by enemies and taking blows Caulder is unable to keep a grip on Selenas. Wriggling like a fish, Selenas slips out from under Caulder’s other arm and lands rather nimbly onto the cobbles and rolls away.

Caulder lets loose a deep growl as he falls to a knee and compresses himself down trying to cover his less armored parts. The shimmer of Caulder’s armor grows in intensity as he shouts “I am the Lady’s Shield! I will let no evil befall her allies.” With those words Caulder freezes in place and the shimmer of his armor expands out ward forming a corona around him. The Spymaster quickly tries to attack, but his sword bounces off of the corona of light around Caulder.

>Shield of the Lady Activated

You test the ward with a strike of your own and end up with a similar result. Unable to strike your opponent who himself is frozen in place, you are thrust into a stalemate.

>Wait him out, that shield of his can’t last forever.
>Have everyone hit the Shield with all they’ve got, I can’t resist everything can it?
>Talk to the frozen giant, maybe now words will penetrate his thick skull.
>[Write In]

>>3258280

>Have Selenas and Midri run to get as many guards as possible. While they do that, fall back to a safe distance in case that shield can explode, but still keeping Caulder in sight and within charge distance. Try talking him down as we do, use our commanding voice to do so, act like a Drill Sergeant if we have to. We don't need it to work, we just need him to either drop his guard, or get so enraged he makes a mistake. Our goal is to either capture or bring him down, or if he escapes, make sure it's not with Selenas or the assassin's body.

>>3258280
>Talk to the frozen giant, maybe now words will penetrate his thick skull.

Ask Selenas if she knows this ability, ow does it work, when does it end and all that.

>>3258280
>>Talk to the frozen giant, maybe now words will penetrate his thick skull

>>3258280
>Talk to the frozen giant, maybe now words will penetrate his thick skull

I was sure he was going to teleport away, lol.
I mean, he's got to have an exit strategy...right?

>>3258280
>Talk to the frozen giant, maybe now words will penetrate his thick skull.
>>3258516
>>3258452
>>3258459
Should we taunt or persuade him? First one would be much easier i think.
Also most likely he will still teleport out.

>>3258688
Taunt would accomplish little, I say we persuade, of course it won't work right away but we can plant some doubts at least, he seems like a stand up guy that wants to protect others, maybe telling him how things are, and how bad they can be can make him second guess the rebellion

Also worth remembering Mildri started casting a spell

>>3258280
All else fails use the spell and the grenades.

>>3258280
Also send the spymaster to report this 2 the queen. She'll probably know what to do.

>>3258311
We don't know if the Assassin is dead. Though we can assume she's either been tortured thoroughly or is actually dead.

>>3258993

That's why I said body, not corpse

>>3259004
When you say body, you think dead body. That said, what circle of Dante's hell's do you think the queen made her experience.

File: Seashell.jpg (82 KB, 900x599)

82 KB JPG

>>3258280

>>3258311
>>3258452
>>3258459
>>3258516
>>3258688

>This will be my only post of the night.

“Selenas have you ever seen him do this before.”

“No, this is my first time seeing anything like this.”

“Hm, I want you to fall back Selenas, find some guards and bring them here, we’ll need as many men as we can get for when he comes out of that thing.” You order

“But-”

“Do it lass, he’s after you as much as he’s after that assassin. Go!” The Spymaster adds as he steps away from the shield.

With one more glance at Caulder, Selenas turns and sprints down the street calling out for guards.

With your enemy restrained you take the opportunity to examine him. At least the bulk of three men and half the height of the nearby buildings, Caulder was certainly an impressive specimen. The thick armor he wore was about double the thickness of most shields and made of a material that you weren’t quite certain was steel. While examining the giant’s hands you notice the item he must have pulled off of his neck. It was shaped like a normal seashell, yet the entire thing looked to be made out of glass. A twitch of motion near Caulder’s head brings your attention to the giant’s helmet. It was a tall with bars running up and down its face guard. Looking through the bars, you could just make out the man’s eyes. As you’d suspected, they were indeed following you. It is then the thought strikes you, if he’s aware enough to track me in there, then he can most likely here me.

Leaning in close to the barrier, you start speaking to the giant “Bold display this. Coming right into the heart of your enemy’s city and snatching a criminal right out of their hands, most people would call that crazy, foolhardy, or just plain stupid.” Caulder’s eyes remain fixated on you. “But I’m sure that you’re the kind of guy who doesn’t listen to that sort of thing. When one of your friends is in danger you help them, no matter the risk and no matter the cost. Today you’ve managed to free your friend, broke in or more likely in your case, smashed through a prison to get her back, probably killed a few guards who got in your way. Men who had families, friends, lovers, hopes, dreams, and great ambitions for their future, all of that smashed to a pulp under your hammer.” Caulder’s eyes stay locked with yours, though you swear you can feel a subtle heat radiating from them.


(1/2)

File: 216821.jpg (71 KB, 916x624)

71 KB JPG

>>3260998

“Oooh I can just feel the anger radiating off him now.” A feminine voice says from behind you. You turn to see the Queen herself rising from the shadows of a nearby building, as if she were surfacing from some sort of sticky mud lake. Striding forth from the shadows the Queen address all of you “Well done everyone,” moving closer to Caulder she speaks directly to the giant, “I must say I thought I’d have to come to the rescue of my subordinates, but it looks like they had everything in hand. Perhaps they’re more reliable than I anticipated, or maybe our reports of your prowess were exaggerated.” The Queen reaches out and runs her fingers over the barrier covering Cualder and Valenca. “Oh this is her magic is it not, mmm oh my how interesting. She is strong there’s no doubt about that, but if you think her magic will protect you from me, you’re dead wrong.” The Queen delivers her last words with an icy coldness as she thrusts her arms to her sides. Her hands darken and form into black tendrils that sink into the cobble stones. All around the corona of light, inky ropes of darkness wrap around the shield, as they do so, the light from the barrier begins to fade and the barrier itself starts to shrink tighter around the two huddled heroes. The Queen begins to chuckle, low and deep the sound not only coming from her, but from every shadow around you. Soon you can’t even see the barrier as the darkness finishes covering it. The barrier shrinking ever tighter now, you wait for Caulder’s protection to finally give out. With a glassy crunch the ball of darkness compresses in. You expect the Queen’s laugh to increase in volume, but her laughter abruptly stops. “Oh she’s no fun.” The Queen sighs as her magic fades and the shadow return to normal. Where Caulder had once been now there was nothing, not a trace of either him or Valenca.

(2/3)

File: Drinking Problem.gif (1.77 MB, 274x202)

1.77 MB GIF

>>3261000

Without missing a beat the Queen strides over to the Spymaster and grabs him under the chin pinching his cheeks with her fingers. “Royal Spymaster, do you remember what I said to you regarding stealing things from my personal collection.”

“You said not to do it again,” The Spymaster says though his pinched cheeks.

“Do you remember what I said would happen to you the next time it happened.”

The Spymaster gulps audibly before responding weakly “No?”

Sighing, the Queen looks over her shoulder back at you “Well done today Captain, I will send for you when I need you until then enjoy your time off.”

“Thank you your majesty,” You say, bowing low.

“Oh and Randolf I’m afraid I’ll have to wait to hear your report until tomorrow. I have to have an emergency meeting with my spymaster.” The Queen says sinking her fingers deeper into the spymaster’s cheeks.

“Understood your majesty,” Randolf responds bowing equally as low.

The Queen walks dragging the Spymaster with her into the shadow of a nearby building before sinking into darkness and disappearing from sight. Randolf shivers and loudly proclaims “I need a drink.”

>Join him in that effort.
>Sleep, Sleep, Sleep, I NEED SLEEP.
>Have a word with Selenas no doubt she’s in need of some guidance now.
>[Write In]

>>3261017
>Join him in that effort.

>>3261017
>Join him in that effort.

As much I would say to check on her, we better give her some time and go there before bed.

>>3261017

>Have a word with Selenas no doubt she’s in need of some guidance now.

>>3261017
Drink with him and have Selena join you.

>>3261017
>>Have a word with Selenas no doubt she’s in need of some guidance now.


tell him we will meet with him in a sec

>>3261402
If we end up going for a drink, at least let Selenas know via ring that we are going to have a talk with Randolph since he's going to deliver our report tomorrow and we will check on her before going to bed

>>3261699
Sure, why not.

Kinda worried about Randy.