Yay!

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You are walking along, consulting your journal. It really is a handy way of keeping track of your quests, status and items.

https://trust-a-goblin.fandom.com/wiki/Journal

A branch crunches under your foot.

Branch?

You look around. You are in a forest.

You smell the air. Or you try to. You can't smell anything.

You suspect you are dreaming.

>>4445171
good to have you back

>examine the area, walk about, this dream might mean something

>>4445182
Also, wooo!

>>4445171
Look up.

>>4445171
Fuck yes, we're back bay beeeeeee!

>keep heading forwards. keep an eye out for any sign of anyone else here

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>>4445182
>>4445196
>>4445199
You walk around the forest carefully at first but you keep finding just more forest.

You start to wonder if this is one of those dreams where you just wander around and never get anywhere.

>>4445210
Yyyyyep, there's the guy we're looking for.

>turn around, slowly

>>4445210
"...Sup."

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>>4445212
You turn to see the EVERKING. It's hard to tell on account of his shimmering body, but you think he may have given you the slightest of nods.

"Fine new tools to do more good work.Perhaps not today, but soon."

The EVERKING rolls their shoulders in a reassuringly human gesture.

"No mana or bullets here. But it may help you understand. What works here works there."

He leans forward

"Shall we?"

>>4445235
"Okay, I'll play your game. What do we need to do?"

>>4445235
"I suppose I don't have much choice."

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>>4445242
>"I suppose I don't have much choice."

The EVERKING paces around you.

"Always a choice. Yours work for me."

>>"Okay, I'll play your game. What do we need to do?"

With a familiar dragonbone appendage, the EVERKING conjures up six aggressive thugs armed with pistols.

"First, you had better roll initiative."

Rolled 65 (1d100)

>>4445252
Oh god oh fuck

Rolled 51 (1d100)

>>4445252

Rolled 92 (1d100)

>>4445252

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>>4445260
You have passed!

Now it's time to cast HELLS HEART HAMMERTIME!!

Ordinarily you would have to declare your targets, but I think we can safely assume you want to fire one shot into each thug.

First in best dressed quote this post and roll under 60 on a d100.

Rolled 39 (1d100)

>>4445275
It's high noon.

>>4445276
Fuck yes, that'll do it

Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>4445275
"I should go"

>>4445275
This looks worrisome.

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>>4445276
You fan the hammer on your revolver channelling the HELLS HEART spell through each bullet. Every shot fired ruptures it's target. The last two thugs shot are especially reduced to a red paste. Hit by a dwarfstopper and a trollstopper respectively.

The EVERKING makes a weird rattling scraping noise.

"All death is good. But this could hurt your join when you're not dreaming."

You stagger back and wince. Hissing short painful breathes between your teeth as your vision blurs. You can feel all but one point of your mana ebb from your body.

"And there is that to think about..."

He makes the rattling sound again.

>>4445316
Don't do this when low on mana or it's lights out for us. Got it.

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>>4445324
GM: Basically. It's a powerful as HELL technique. But you gotta keep an eye on your cylinder AND your mana.

Just normal HAMMERTIME is fine too. So is KNEE CAP!

HIGHBALL has new tecniques also. All there in the wiki. Sorry for the boring but I wanted to tooth this out in a non combat session.

Anyway...

=====

You awake breathing hard in your own bed. You shortness of breath irl can be attributed to a goblin leg draped across your midsection as they kitty snore next to you.

>>4445343
>try to get up without waking HB

>>4445343
>pet HB, try to not slide out of bed without disrupting her

>>4445343
pet highball on the head

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>>4445358
>>4445380
>>4445383
With a lot of care and effort you manage to lift Highball's leg off your stomach and gently slide out of bed. She stirs and murmurs but ultimately stays asleep. You pat her on the head and she makes a small chirping purr.

She can rest.

You've grown sufficiently accustomed to this ship that you can tell when it's moving, so you assume you're not quite at Kretch yet.

Highball, from memory, was not part of the away team this time anyway. Although that's hardly set in stone.

===============

GM: Sorry this session started late guys. It's actually about 4 am here and I'm kinda checking out. Please consider if there's anything you want to do aboard the ship.

>>4445416
Check in with the rest of the crew.

>>4445416
Talk to Richter/ see what she is up too

>>4445416
Its been a while, can you give a brief summary of what there is do on the ship? If I remember correctly, we ended last session having freed the town of those drug gangers, but still have a troll to deal with who heads their operation. also we accidentally intercepted an agent of the Old Guard, which might be worth worrying about since this company used to do things for them. And we are currently on heading for Kretch, where a wizardess named Jorn Tauloppo might be who was related to the town we saved. They also likely did her wrong, so she might not be totally evil.

>>4445448
This, a general check around to see how people are doing would be good.

>>4445416
We might want to talk to Mike and/or Surrey if we go with the plan to have him and HB snooping around Kretch by themselves while we do our own thing with the party. A way to alert us (mutter bottles, flares, colored smoke bombs, vuvuzelas), if there is danger so we can come assist those who run solo would not hurt I imagine.

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>>4445457
QM: Since you only just levelled up, there's no activities to do around the ship that hold a mechanical benefit to you, presently.

Your summary of the present situation is basically spot on. Your heading to Kretch because assuming Jorn and Edgewater parted ways once they found out you'd killed most of their dudes, Kretch seems like the most likely place Jorn could have got to in time - based on peoples assessment of her character. There's no guarantees that she's there but you thought it was worth a shot. Good or bad you want to talk to her.

No one has been to Kretch recently but because it is a walled in, VERY heavily guarded city they assume its one of the few places the OLD GUARD have no presence. Their cover would have to be incredibly deep.

Tentatively, you plan to go down with one away team and have Mike and Highball scout around separately. You can either arrange a rendezvous point with them, set up a signal or give them the other mutterbottle (currently held by LUMSDEN the ships captain)

Besides assembling a team and fine tuning strategy, you can also discuss recent events or find out more about certain things when you talk to crew members. Richter seems to know more about Jorn than most people, even if her info is second hand, Burstock knows a little about magic, Mike knows a little more about mobs etc.

Your crew members should be in their rooms or at their posts.

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QM: Also, this is not a bad time to sort your items.

What's in your pockets can be accessed any time:

Revolver (5 Normal bullets 1 Trollstopper)

Speedloader (4 Normal Bullets, 1 Troll Stopper, 1 Dwarf Stopper)

1 Small Health Potion

1 mana potion

1 dwarfstopper

1 Burnsauce

Ravenbar (super crowbar)

Mutterbottle

2 Books of Matches

Grink Rak

Grink Cherry

15220 Gold

[A good selection, but while unlikely to be a problem, that is a LOT of cash to just carry around]

What is in your backpack. You have it with you and the capacity is huge but it takes a turn rummaging if you want to use anything from it in combat.

34 Bullets

2 Sticks of Dynamite

Rope (10 ft)

Fist Sized Sapphire

1 Burnsauce

1 Glowbottle

Vodkant

Journal

13 Perka pistols

3 cheeroots

1 Bottle Punt e Mes

1 Nowl porno scroll

1 Stocking

1 Bottle of sesame oil

You still have room in your backpack, though not a titanic amount. Some of this stuff, if you want, can be moved to the SAFE, the CRATE ROOM or your SIDE TABLE.

Or given to others if you think they'd want it.

==========

You drop in on Richter, who is casually doing finger/clap pushups with a backpack full of rocks on top of her. She stops when you enter and faces you. She smiles benignly.

"Eager for more? I'm afraid rest days are important."

>>4445937
>ask how the chickens are doing

>>4445937
"Just checking in on you and the chicks"

>>4445937
"Would you have ideas where to look for Jorn once we arrive at Kretch? What could hold her interest there other than burning down the local news rag or pet daycare center?"

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>>4445952
>>4446009
>>"Just checking in on you and the chicks"

Richter crouches down and feeds the chickens from a pipette. She skritches them all a little.

"They appear happy. They lay frequently and their produce is nutritious."

She stands back up

"Is there something I can help with?"

>A. Just letting you know you're one of the two I'm heading into town with. Pack whatever you need as we'll be there soon.

>B. Can we do that synchro meditation thing again? I wanna learn...stuff...

>C. Anything you can tell me about this Jorn Taullopo person?

>D. Anything you might have forgotten to mention about Kretch

>E. What do you think of the crew?

>F. [INSERT OWN]

>>4446066
"It's less about the chickens themselves and more about animals in general. I'd get a cat for the ship but I don't think the chickens would be happy about that."

>>4446066
>>B. Can we do that synchro meditation thing again? I wanna learn...stuff...

>>4446066
>F. [INSERT OWN]
I'll go with this again: >>4446065

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>>4446065
>>"Would you have ideas where to look for Jorn once we arrive at Kretch? What could hold her interest there other than burning down the local news rag or pet daycare center?"

Richter folds her arms and tilts her hips, thinking.

"I'm not certain Kretch even has either of those. It's possible she's going there to rest. I know there's a hotel, a doctor and few places to eat there. It is difficult for me to extrapolate. My needs and the needs of someone more fragile are hard to broach. Someone else might have more insight into her actions. To me, food and rest seem like they would be priorities."

>>4446070
which reminds me, we should probably tell Jorn that Lettuce is doing fine when we find her

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>>4446076
Richter gives you a very slightly knowing look.

"Really. What was it you were hoping to better understand?"

>A. [shrug] Wizard titties on my back. I'm always looking to learn more about that.

>B. I know if I stop and think about it, I could figure out who here would have a map of Kretch.

>C. I wanna know, in my heart whether I can trust Jorn.

>D. I'm just messing. Maybe another time.


QM: First in.

>>4446145
>B

>>4446145
C

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>>4446157
You step forward, striking a dynamic pose.

>"I know if I stop and think about it, I could figure out who here would have a map of Kretch. I just need to get my thoughts straight."

Richter nods

"Very good then."

She gestures to the floor and you sit cross legged and close your eyes.

Just as last time, you feel her arms wrap around you. Her chin rests on your shoulder. You can feel her heart beat through your back.

"Concentrate."

Her breath tickles your ear a little.

After a few deep breaths your hearts begin to beat in unison.

You think.

At least you think you think.

CONCENTRATE [75%]

QM:Two out of three. Roll d100.

Rolled 6 (1d100)

>>4446374
Alright, let's see!

Rolled 10 (1d100)

>>4446374

Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>4446374

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>>4446381
>>4446385

You breathe deep and your thoughts flow true.

They have been in the area for ages, even if they haven't been to Kretch. Someone they were ferrying probably did. And left their map on board.

They almost never throw things out. Just in case. They are cautious. Overly cautious.

>"Lumsden."

You say, the pieces coming together in your mind.

>>"Lumsden probably has a map. That will give us an idea of where we can look."

Richter stands up and clasps you on the shoulder.

"Your easy going and forgetful nature hides a keen deductive mind, boy."

>>4446394
Why is Richer so great!?

>>4446394
"Thanks Richter, we'll see ya in a bit. Now where's Lumsden chilling at this time?"

>>4446394
this
>>4446413

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>>4446405
Lacking any real answer, Richter simply flexes.

>>4446413
You stand up and smooth your clothes.

>>"Thanks Richter, we'll see ya in a bit. Now where's Lumsden chilling at this time?"

Richter pauses thoughtfully and stretches her arms towards the floor.

"We're slowing down but we are still moving. I can only assume she is in the wheelhouse of this ship."

>>4446460
Let's head to see Lumsden, make final checks with her.

>>4446468
Ditto

>>4446468
Sounds good

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>>4446468
You head back up to the WHEELHOUSE, knocking on the trapdoor before you enter. It is also Lumsden's room after all.

She glances over her shoulder then goes back to her work. She steers the whole ship in a long slow 90 degree turn from the back before pulling a few levers.

The familiar whirring of the engines shifting position then idling shudders throughout the ship.

"There we go. Walking distance from Kretch. It's been a little while but I think they still recognise the old girl."

She glances back at you

"Is there something you need?"

>A. I was just wondering. Any chance you have a map of Kretch about the place?

>B. Anything we can get for you while we're down there?

>C. I was wondering if I could borrow the mutterbottle you have. I can give it to Mike or Highball that way. I don't think we're going to need extraction or anything.

>D. Actually, I was thinking. Seeing as this is a safe zone and we're probably not getting into any combat...you should come with me and Rick. Might be nice for you to get to wander around off the ship. [35%]

>E. [INSERT OWN]

===============

QM: Any number of these can be done. First roll is the one that counts.

Rolled 2 (1d100)

>>4446486
>A. I was just wondering. Any chance you have a map of Kretch about the place?
>B. Anything we can get for you while we're down there?

>>4446486
>A.
>B.

Would love to ask her to accompany us, but I feel we shouldn't push it. Good things come in time.

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>>4446502
>"I was just wondering. Any chance you have a map of Kretch about the place?"

Lumsden shrugs.

"Not that I.."

She pauses.

"Hold on a minute! Hold on just a minute!"

Lumsden excitedly rummages through the bottom drawer of her wardrobe, scattering a few things about.

She eventually comes across a a box of assorted papers. She rifles through it before yelling something happily in Orkish and walking over to you.

"I picked someone up from here to take them back up to the band once! It was a little nicer than some maps so I held onto it."

>"Anything we can get for you while we're down there?"

Lumsden fusses about collecting the papers and trinkets she scattered.

"In the unlikely event you find a place selling fresh limes or pretzel nuggets, I suppose. But please please don't worry about me."

>>4446509
"Hands where we can see em. I can already tell our motley crew won't be having as much fun as we'd like."

"Any chance you can tell us anything about a couple of the places here, like the bounty bar, Schvitz house, or 'say it with stuff'?"

>>4446509
I wonder if "For Sale" is a property for sale or just a business named "For Sale".

"When did you carry this passenger? Trying to figure how up to date this map is."

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>>4446516
>""Hands where we can see em. I can already tell our motley crew won't be having as much fun as we'd like."

Lumsden smirks as she packs her clothes away again.

"What sort of fun were you guys planning on having? But no, I get what you mean. Kretch has the reputation of being safer than a lot of cities under the GTU. But I guess that sort of safety comes with a price."

>"Any chance you can tell us anything about a couple of the places here, like the bounty bar, Schvitz house, or 'say it with stuff'?"

"The client I was transporting was actually rambling a bit about both. The shvitz house is a deep cleaning bath and steam. Apparently it's just about the only thing that gets the smell of a Bet-Bet off you except time. That was it! They arrived to Kretch via Bet-Bet. Washed the smell off then went to the BOUNTY BAR. It's basically a small pub where folks can post bounties and rewards. Profitable if you're in the search and destroy game, I guess."

>>I wonder if "For Sale" is a property for sale or just a business named "For Sale".

Lumsden leans over your shoulder.

"Looks like that square is empty, so it might actually be a house for sale"

>"When did you carry this passenger? Trying to figure how up to date this map is."

Lumsden breathes through her teeth and scratches her head.

"A year ago? 18 months absolute max."

>>4446528
>"...But I guess that sort of safety comes with a price."

"Shoot first, ask questions never, or will they at least shout a warning after they've started blasting? Excuse my hyperbole."

>>4446528
"Bet-Bets a means of transport then. Should I be thinking Horses, Pigs, wild birds, or something weirder like climbing into a slim monster?"

"Alright. Give us the fifteen minutes to touchdown warning. I gotta make sure everyone is ready."

>>4446537
From previous thread:

>"Maybe people were telling tales outside of school but doesn'y Kretch have a Bet-bet rental station."

>Mike nods.

>Burstock winces. Realising the same thing Gilcrest has.

>Gilcrest almost sounds alarmed. For him, anyways.

>"Bet-bets are crazy fast! If they're only transporting one person. Faster than us anyways. If someone gets to a Bet-Bet station they could get anywhere."

>Lumsden shakes her head.

>"No. They're fast but they can't fly that far. They're too fat."

>>4446538
Birb monster. Thanks man.

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>>4446536
>>"Shoot first, ask questions never, or will they at least shout a warning after they've started blasting? Excuse my hyperbole."

Lumsden does a big anime shrug

"Search me. Seems like most places these days are either so relaxed they're full of monsters or so up tight it verges on being like the old days. Me? I like my ship."

>"Alright. Give us the fifteen minutes to touchdown warning. I gotta make sure everyone is ready."

Lumsden laughs into her hand and moves towards you but stops herself.

"This is as low as I can get without water. I'm afraid it's the rope ladder for you guys."

>>4446551
"Sometimes I swear I would kill to have a lift installed on this thing."

grab the crew. Any cargo worth selling. And let's hit it.(I don't recall if we made any potions go market recently. Have we?)

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>>4446555
>"Sometimes I swear I would kill to have a lift installed on this thing.""

"A landing gear would work too. Really help with larger loads. Pricey though."

>grab the crew
You walk down through the corridors. You knock on Burstock's door and tell her to meet down at the loading hatch in 5 minutes.

There is a scuffling sound

She calls back through the door

'Nuh-no problem!'

>Any cargo worth selling
You check the CRATE room. There is a handful of good alcohol and food collected from Scadam and a large pile of rigged explosive crates. You're not sure how valuable those will be.

>I don't recall if we made any potions go market recently. Have we?

You check in with your brewer, Surrey. Surrey has made 2 mana potions and another 2 pairs of mutterbottles. She assures you it would be better to sell them in larger amounts.

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You make your way down to the front loading hatch. Burstock and Richter are there. You can't hear what they're saying. Richter is shaking her head a lot but they are both smiling.

Mike and Highball are doing some sort of warm up dance. Somewhere between limbering up and a gear check, but with more clapping. As you walk up, Highball tells everyone to look alive.

"Where do you want me and Mike, nabob? What should we be doing?"

>>4446575
Show everyone the map, establish rendezvous point in case of emergency.

"We have on a good suspicion that Jorn is in Kretch. We have her general description, but don't know her exact location. Our best bet will be the hotel, but she might have other contacts in town so we need to ask around."
"She could have run foul with local law, either for her connection to Edgewater or for another reason. From what I understand you don't have to do much to get on guards shit list. In either case she could be held in either of the guard stations. Mikes got good senses, and could catch on intel without rousing suspicion and HB can't be noticed if she doesn't want to be. I'd like you to scout out the guardhouses if you can do so without problems."
"Besides Jorn we are looking for business opportunities to either sell our cargo or establish a customer for any future product. Everyone meet up at House of Waffles for company lunch in an hour or two and we'll consolidate our findings then."

>>4446592
This is pretty in depth

>>4446575
also calling you on aco apparently works.

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>>4446592
Everybody huddles around as you point to the map. Mike flicks open a note book and sketches down a crummy version of it as you talk.

Highball nods along to your plan and beams proudly.

"Me and Mike will spook around. It'll use a little of my ACTION POINTS, but I hopefully we wont be fighting anyone today."

Mike looks to Highball

"Got a preference, Nep?"

Highball jabs at the map.

You scope out the guard house closer to the door. There will be heavy rotation and the guys on guard duty will be flappin their gums more to relive boredom. I'll take the further one. The back alleys and dumpsters will allow me to spook around the place better."

Mike gives a thumbs up and closes his note book.

Burstock pats you on the back.

"Let's see what we can do, jefe."

As she and Richter descend the ladder, Highball runs over to you and kisses your cheek.

"For luck, Joey. Come back in one piece."
============
>>4446615
QM: Sometimes. I don't want to flood my stuff.

>>4446622
"Every day I get to spend time with you is my lucky day, HB. Let's show 'em what we got."

Boots on the ground and let's take a gander.

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>>4446645

You smile at Highball

>"Every day I get to spend time with you is my lucky day, HB. Let's show 'em what we got."

Her ears perk up and she chrips.

You catch up to the other two on the ladder.

You can already see the guards of the gate to Kretch. One of them gives an okay signal up at the Silver Lining, then turns back towards you.

"Theoretical welcome to Kretch. No funny business, please. Hands where we can see them and state your business if you don't mind."

>>4446659
"We are business representatives of Cold Iron (name pending) potion company and we are seeking business opportunities in your community."
"Please provide us with name of your chief community law enforcement officer and their address in case our company is forced to seek conflict resolution with local parties."

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>>4446667

>"We are business representatives of Cold Iron (name pending) potion company and we are seeking business opportunities in your community."

The guard nods.

"Looking to restock the Bounty Bar or check out the vacant building, eh? It may seem closed up but you could do worse than Kretch, let me tell you."

>"Please provide us with name of your chief community law enforcement officer and their address in case our company is forced to seek conflict resolution with local parties."

"We're all equals here. Only one with any power is the mayor. They specifically asked not to be identified to outsiders."

The guards eyes narrow.

"And if you have any issue with local parties you'd best ask them to take it outside the city walls. You start a fight here and we will end it. If you resolve a conflict here you do it nice"

The other guard pipes up

"Kretch is for good boys and girls."

The first guard nods back

"Exactly right. Speaking of which..."

The guard points at Burstock

"She doesn't look like one."

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QM: It's 3am so I'm gonna lie down for a bit.

Enter any and all negotiations and plans and I will check them out in the morning.

>>4446687
Narrow eyes.
"Do you take issue with the outward appearance of our respected and invaluable employee to such length as to bar her entry? Think very carefully if you wish to be inciting incident to news that Kretch has issued hostile policies against legitimate businesses based on superficial factors beyond control of parties involved."
"Especially since your reputation is already so toxic that said property is still unsold for year(s)."

>>4446721
Easy now. We're very small potatoes here, leave overt intimidation and not so veiled insults to the big fishes. We don't want to fuck things up on the door already.
Just an innocent "how so? she hasn't made any trouble for us or any towns we've been in" might do.

>>4446773
just started reading this quest and was like "oh, I guess we're ballers in this one." haha

>>4446773
You might be right. I do have concern that if we don't swing for the fences we'll get walked over, but starting off light might be the way to go.

>>4446687
We're all good people here. Now, you were saying something about how your town has a business opportunity waiting for an investor?

it might be the clothes. Lumsden said she'd heard this place was uptight about specific things. >>4446528

if they think Burstock is a prostitute:
"vitamagus, on board for expeditions and side-effects. I'm sure she can demonstrate. do either of you have any ailments?"
if it's a dress code or people will keep bothering us, ask if she's fine putting on some more clothes. maybe buy a cloak or something first thing when we get in if they let us.

does she even have other clothes?

>>4446835
>vitamagus, on board for expeditions and side-effects. I'm sure she can demonstrate. do either of you have any ailments?
hmm, she doesn't have a license anymore, but I don't think it matters out here, right?

>>4446687
She's an Animagus, is there a problem with that?

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>>4446721
>>4446773
>>4446804
>>4446830
>>4446835
>>4446859
>>4446955

You stand your ground with the guard.

>"She is literally a healer. She's a vitamagus. It's basically impossible to be one of those without having huge amounts of empathy and a good moral compass."

The guards exchange a glance until one of them chimes in.

"She looks like a thot, though."

Burstock raises her voice.

"I AM a thot!"

There is a clink of armour as the guards startle a little.

"But that has nothing to do with my body shape or dress sense. Also, whose to say a thot can't still be a good person?!'

The guards exchange a glance.

"Well, I mean.."

You interrupt.

>"Hey, no it's good. You just be sure to tell whoever's trying to sell that house what could have been. Make sure you tell them why, too. We're going to - that's for sure."

The guards clamour

"Okay! Okay! Come in! But you'd better believe we're watching you."

The guards unbolt the front gates and pull them open. A circular, paved town is sprawled out before you.


======================

QM: No need for a roll this time. I liked the points anon made.

>>4447201
All right, let's scope out the hotel.

>>4447201
Time to mosey as a team, because we're about to get civil. Let's wonder in and see what our first impression is. Lets head towards the hotel first since that's what most people likely do. And it will let us pass by a lot of stuff.

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>>4447291
>>4447318
You mosey as a team over to the Sufficient Western Hotel.

The town has a crisp clean air to it, but you see nothing but guards in it during your walk. Some of them seem to mutter something. Others speak in passing admiration on your groups fashion choices or weaponry.

There are a lot of Skvader about.

You enter the hotel

There is a one room lobby and door that seems to lead to the rooms.

A skeleton behind the desk turns towards you and nods before doing back to staring straight forward.

>>4447356
Check the sign, maybe?

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>>4447366
You walk over to the sign and read it.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Yo! You! YEEES! YOU!"
DO NOT
1. Steal the gold box
2. Break into the rooms
3. Refuse to sign in
4. Engage or bother the skeleton

If you need to know how this plays out, babe, you gots to say 'lay it on me!'
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
The wording of this sign seems awfully familiar.

>>4447377
>lay it on me!
can't help it

>>4447377
Sign in at the front desk.

>>4447377
...Let's not.

Just sign in and we'll go from there.

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>>4447380

You shrug.

>"Lay it on me!"

The skeleton reaches behind the desk and pulls out are jar of MAYONOISE. It unscrews the lid and releases a pre-recorded message, that -somehow- begins with a peel of thunder.

"YOOO! So.. you wan't to check in at the sweet pad, eh? Don't blame you. Is comfort and privacy good to go. Just put your gold in the box -50 gold per night and the room is yours for as long as you pay. The dirtbag behind the counter will then give you your keys.

One more thing! You gots to fill in the book! You don't see us and we don't see you but we gots to keep track! Stay out of trouble, you pretty young thing!"

There is no way that voice is anyone but the Baron.

The skeleton puts the lid back on the jar.

>>4447395
Sign in, hand in the gold, and head inside.

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>>4447401
You get out your wallet and Burstock runs over to you.

"Wait, what are we doing now? Do you expect to find something in the room?"

>>4447439
>Why are we getting a hotel room?
Feeding me a straight line, huh?

If we pay for a room, we're paying customers, and we're entitled to be here. Maybe not to snooping around, but if we're found in the hallways, we have an excuse, maybe?

>>4447439
this>>4447445
works

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>>4447445

>"If we pay for a room, we're paying customers, and we're entitled to be here. Maybe not to snooping around, but if we're found in the hallways, we have an excuse, maybe?"

Burstocks eyes widen and she looks around

"Ah. Yep. Sure. Youre the boss."

You put 50 gold in the box. One night paid for. You flick open the book and sign in.

After which, the skeleton hands you a ring with two keys on it.

The skeleton points to one key. Then to the large door to your left. It then taps on another key labelled 5 and points to you.

>>4447439
If we pay, we get to sign the böok and we can take a moment to check it for Jorn and anyone else of interest.

>>4447465
Alright! We're in; now we can look around for the relevant folks.

>>4447466
Yes, this too. While we sign the book, check the other names.

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>>4447466
>>4447469
As you fill in your name in register, you make sure to do it extra slowly, so that you can take note of other guests.

H. Nakagura has paid for one day. They are presently not in their room, but were earlier today.

S. Varrickstreet is paid up for another week, but hasn't been in their room at all for 4 days.

AH! Here we go.

J. Tauloppo. Has been renting a room here for months. Last check in was two days ago. Has yet to sign in today.

>>4447477
>J. Tauloppo. Has been renting a room here for months. Last check in was two days ago. Has yet to sign in today.
Which number was hers again?

>>4447479
oh wait we didn't know our room number when we signed and she probably didn't either, never mind

>>4447477
If they haven't signed in, that probably means they're about town.

>>4447477
She has lived here for months, so either she had lots of cash to begin with or got Edgewater to pay her tab.

Searching her room could give us clues to where she is, but I'm worried about breaking in. Maybe leave that for last and check somewhere else?

>>4447482
and it also means she's not there to check any clues on her room... assuming we can give the "shock TREATment" the slip

>>4447485
Let's not get Shock Treatment, it was a terrible sequel.

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>>4447482
>"If they haven't signed in, that probably means they're about town."

Richter plays with one of her eyebrows.

"I think perhaps Jorn and ourselves arrived at this town at remarkably similar times. She seems the urbane sort, so Iimagine she stays in her room unless she has specific business in town."

Burstock stretches
"That follows."

You think out loud
>"and it also means she's not there to check any clues on her room... assuming we can give the "shock TREATment" the slip"

Burstock rubs your arm.

"I admire your cage rattling instincts, boss, but if these rooms ARE alarmed - I don't want a town of at least 2 dozen guards and a man who is ALMOST CERTAINLY a lich to be after me."

>>4447495
Fair point. We'll have to think careful on how to smoke her out.

Let's move on for now and take a look around town as planned. Might be able to kill two birds with one stone.

>>4447495
Yeah no reason to be kicking hornets' nests just yet. Let's try to find her with good old fashioned legwork first.

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>>4447498
>>4447499
QM: Where to next, anon?

>>4447503
Bar might be good for general news. We do probably need to hit that For Sale area though. see what's what.

>>4447503
What about Fett's? She might be looking for a ride out of here

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>>4447523
>>4447530
QM: Can we get a tie breaker?

>>4447537
Well, from what I recall, the stables should contain some good conversationalists.

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>>4447539
>>4447530
You and your team mosey over to Fett's Fet Bet-Bets. You smell the place before you see it.

There is a large stable with a collection of enormous, obese fruitbats with canopies and harnesses attached to them.

An elf in overalls is walking among them brushing their fur and handing them baskets of peaches that they noisily, constantly eat.

You assume the elf to be Fett.

>A. How do you stand the smell here? This is like hells urinal.
>B. How's business?
>C. Excuse me has an elf come through here? Long black hair tied up? Might have been wearing a business suit with a leather skirt?
>D. [INSERT OWN]
>E. How much for one of these?

>>4447554
Oh my god, giant fruitbats. That's adorable.
>B, C

>>4447554
Ask the elf if we can talk away from betts. I'd rather not have to have a deep bath right after this.

>>4447554
supporting
>>4447556

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>>4447556
You clear your throat and Fett turns to you smiling, pocketing her bristle brush.

"Welcome to Kretch, folks! Thanks for gracing our little town with some fresh faces!"

>"How's business?"

Fett beams proudly.
"Like gangbusters! I got a one day client. I've got one client who put down a deposit in case they were gone for longer - and they were - so I get to keep it. And I got a long term client who paid me a bonus for their extended use policy."

>"Excuse me has an elf come through here? Long black hair tied up? Might have been wearing a business suit with a leather skirt?"

Fett nods, happily

"That's her! She's a good egg! Got back less than an hour ago. Ran off for her usual steam and laundry."

>>4447580
>"Wait, this town has a place to do laundry?"
>"How much for one of these?"

>>4447580
So she's at the bath house then.
Time to politely extract ourselves so that we can intercept.

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>>4447588
>">How much for one of these?"

Fett goes back to tending to the Bet-Bets.

"40g per day you want one, A deposit is required. I keep the deposit if you take too long to come back."

>"Wait, this town has a place to do laundry?"

'Sure, the Shvitz House does your clothes while you get the scented steam blast and deep clean. It's 30 gold each or 70 for a group. Apparently, it's more efficient on the steamers. Gives you a nice buff , too!"

Fett smiles a little embarrassed.

"I like to go there before I mingle with other folks in town. I no longer notice the smell of my babies but I do understand it's hideous."

>>4447627
>That sounds like a really good deal, and I'd love to stay and chat, but I really do have to get going. Thanks for the directions!

>>4447627
support >>4447630

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>>4447631
>>4447630
>>4447596
The three of you walk swiftly then break into a jog, then just about run across town. You keep up, but you are definitely in third. That makes sense with Richter but how in the hell is Burstock so fast?!

You all arrive at the Shvitzhouse. Richter takes her pulse and Burstock adjust her clothes and they allow you to enter first.

Huh.

Another skeleton at a desk. Lockers behind him.

Burstock nods and smiles.

"Riiiight.. I was wondering how all the town guards got paid. Two of the biggest businesses in town are skeleton powered. It's basically pure profit. Smart."

>>4447645
Lay it on me!

>>4447645
Politely enquire about how this business works
(also looks like we'll need to send the girls in without us on this one)

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>>4447650
The skeleton opens a jar of mayonoise and puts it on the desk.

"YO!! Listen up, kid! It's gonna cost you 30 gold or 70 for your sweet team! Easier on the steamers that way! Groups are good! Make sure you got all the pretty things on one side and the main men on the other.

Pretty strange rule if you ask a swinging cool cat like me, but HEY - town rules is town rules, kid!

Leave your valuables in a locker and your clothes at the door. The DIRTBAG behind the counter will have your duds washed by the time you're out. SO long as you wash for a good 10.

You going to leave this place with a temporary charm and XP boost. Treat yourself! Dig this!"

Burstock bites her lip

"We owe it to ourselves to check this place for her.."

Richter shrugs. She kinda always smells good.

>>4447663
Sounds good, lets do it

>>4447663
Do we want to go for a full group deal or just send one person to check for her?

>>4447672
XP bonus alone makes group worth it + charm bonus will help with possible negotiations.

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>>4447668
>>4447672
>>4447679

You put a cool 70g in the box.

Burstock practically runs in. You see her palm something before she puts all of her belongings in a locker.

Richter follows after her. Still unsure.

"So, am I to understand we just sit there?"

"Yes! It's AMAZING. Trust me. If we see Jorn - you tap on the party wall. I am sure Joey will hear it. We'll keep her talking and we'll round on her once we're all dressed again."

That works, you reason.

You step into your own steam room, briefly wondering if the side effects of grink clear are worth it. Hrm.

Oh.

You're not alone.

You don't mean to, but you accidentally end up staring. The goblin clears his throat and you stare at the ceiling, listening for a knock.

Time drags just sitting there.

>A. Oh hey, do you know Highball Nepermuk?
>B. Rough day, huh?
>C. What's that around your neck?
>D. Have you seen an elf around here? Long black hair tied back? Business suit and a leather skirt?
>E. Hey! How's it hanging?
>F. Dames, am I right?
>G. What brings you to Kretch?
>H.[INSERT OWN]

>>4447694
>Rough day, huh?
I think the neutral sympathetic approach seems best

>>4447694
>E. Hey! How's it hanging?

>>4447694
>B.

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>>4447696
>>4447705
You put on your best weary smile.

>"Rough day, huh?"

The goblin turns to you and does a big exhale and does a rueful laugh.

"Buddy, you got no idea."

You almost jump. It still surprises you how deep goblin voices are.

"I've been in the gar damn boonies for a week travelling by buggy, boat and piss reekin' bat to track this guy down. Family wants him back - worried about him. After all that he don't wanna come back. I only get the fat bucks from these highrollers if I actually bring their kid back - but I can't actually MAKE him. SO I'm just getting my flat retainer. And that ain't a whole lot. It's chicken feed. "

Dude likes to complain. Guess it's been a while.

"So. Yeah. Rough day."

>>4447709
Sounds extremely frustrating, was the target some rich kid looking for adventure or something?

>>4447709
>"Can't you contact his family and ask them for advice on how to convince him to go back?"

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>>4447714
You nod thoughtfully at his complaints.

>"Sounds extremely frustrating, was the target some rich kid looking for adventure or something?"

He points at you and does one of those goblin *click click* noises at you.

"The very same. Trying to figure himself out. Wants to be a tough guy. Turns out he sucks at it. So he's gonna try getting back to nature or some shit."

You scratch your neck

>"Can't you contact his family and ask them for advice on how to convince him to go back?"

he does a small laugh

"Yeah, I did that before I LEFT, apricot. Come on with that. Appealed to his sense of love for his family, the ease of city life - being loaded as fuck. All things I was assured would appeal to him. But he wasn't having it. And...technically he's an adult so they can't just send the SATS after him."

He leans back.

"White eyes never know how good they got it."

He looks a back at you.

"Sorry, that's unfair. I shouldn't generalise."

>>4447727
I happen to employ an airship as part of a potion company I run if you are looking for a ride.

Ever consider hiring extra help? Usually when kids drop out like that they have an underlying reason to do so. More hands can do more digging.

>>4447727
>>4447730
This is fine

>>4447727
Supporting >>4447730

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>>4447730
>>4447733

You feel like you're getting somewhere.

>"Ever consider hiring extra help? Usually when kids drop out like that they have an underlying reason to do so. More hands can do more digging."

The goblin gets a small look of panic in their eyes but smiles a little too.

"I already have a kind of associate. Handles the legal side of things. Or - is meant to. I got their help on this one, too."

He flicks a gold coin to himself

"I appreciate your help, buddy. But it's a fact of life that you can't win 'em all."

>"I happen to employ an airship as part of a potion company I run if you are looking for a ride."

The goblin thinks for a moment

"You heading to any big cities or transport hubs any time soon? I guess I could just go over old cases and take things slow but..I mean..do you even have a spot for me?"

>>4447738
Sure we got a spot, but i dont know about big cities or transport hubs, we might go to one at some point for potion selling/other work

>>4447738
We are looking to tie up a loose end in the aeea (Edgewater), but after that we plan on getting our airship captain their UPA lisence or whatever it was called that let's us visit bigger cities close to the band.

>>4447750
GTU Lisence

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>>4447750
>"We are looking to tie up a loose end in the area. Just some local trouble. After that we plan on getting our airship captain their UPA lisence or whatever it was called that let's us visit bigger cities close to the band."

The goblin thinks.

Let me know if there's any of that trouble you think I can handle, I guess. Don't imagine so seeing as I'm just a hawkshaw goblin, but you never know. I'll be content just to hang on the ship while you guys deal with whatever you have to."

>"Sure we got a spot, but i dont know about big cities or transport hubs, we might go to one at some point for potion selling/other work"

The goblin kicks back, smirking

"You know what? Fuck it. Suits me. I'll pay you guys for room and food - charge it to the clients and hop off wherever works for me."

>>4447760
I'm Joey Donuts, pleasure to meet you Karl.

We'll make sure to grab you when it's time to bounce.

Any sign from Burstock and Richter?

>>4447760
>>4447767
I am with this

>>4447760
Fuck yes my boy Hakarl has arrived
Question for you, CF, do we actually have a room for him? I thought we were outta beds, but I might be forgetting something.

>>4447767
This sounds good

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>>4447767

>"I'm Joey Donuts, pleasure to meet you Karl"

Karl extends his hand.

You have heard no knocks from Richter and it's been 10 minutes. This place is a dead end, sadly.

=====================

>>4447774

>>Question for you, CF, do we actually have a room for him? I thought we were outta beds, but I might be forgetting something.

QM: No, you remember correctly. All beds are currently occupied.

>>4447774
according to
https://trust-a-goblin.fandom.com/wiki/Inside_the_Silver_Lining
there's no empty rooms.
we could maybe move the rec stuff to the crate room. looks like more than enough space.

possible problems with that:
people will be hanging out near the safe and crates
noisy activities happen next to Burstock and the galley instead of next to Mike and Highball.

>>4447782
>All beds are currently occupied
Piss. That's something we'll have to figure out before we pick up Karl.

>This place is a dead end, sadly
Double piss. Alright, say our goodbyes and head out then.

>>4447783
That might work, we might be able to grab him a bedroll or something in town.

>>4447782
Meet up with the girls. Check the time: If it's been an hour, head to Waffles, otherwise check the Bounty Bar.

>>4447783
additional problem with this: there are explosive crates there.

another idea could be to move our room stuff into the office.
+nice to have the boss horn available quickly, don't need to run to the other side of the ship to make announcements.
+it's weird that our/Chesapeake's room is on the other side of the floor from the executive washroom.
+it feels weird that we have three rooms that are mostly ours.

-he ends up sleeping next to the board room. if we're going to use a room for passengers, it feels weird having it there (since they won't be at all the meetings).
-our office looks less cool if it's also our bedroom.

>>4447799
>-our office looks less cool if it's also our bedroom.
Mixing business and pleasure will not look good for most respectable business contacts.

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>>4447797

You say your fond farewells to Karl and head back out the hall way. Your clothes are waiting for you neatly folded.

You stagger back out to meet the girls who are talking among themselves.

Burstock acknowledges you

"Anything good?"

>A. Nope. We still got time to kill let's grab a drink.
>B. I met someone but I didn't ask them about Jorn. They're just passing through so I figured they didn't know anything. Hey. Just outta nowhere - either of you guys cool with sharing your room?
>C. We gotta keep looking. Can't you use life magic or something?
>D. Nope. I'm on the verge of just picking a spot and random to search.
>E. [INSERT OWN]

>>4447817
>>E. [INSERT OWN]
Logically Jorn had to have finished by the time we got here from Fetts-Bets and we did not meet her on the way. This means that she either headed back to the hotel, or went to a place between here and Fetts, either the bar or House of Waffles. Correct if I'm wrong.

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>>4447830
You flick out the map and place a page from your JOURNAL on it to help process your thoughts. Assuming that Jorn is constantly slightly ahead of your party, the path you guys ran between places limits where she could be now. You would have seen her otherwise.

>>4447839
Hm. I say we head to the Bounty Bar on account of the fact that we'll be going to the House of Waffles in a bit anyway, via the centre of town if possible just to see what's going on there. Plus water features are cool.

If our route's accurate she could also be looking at the house for sale, but I dunno off the top of my head what she would want there.

>>4447839
Let's keep following the logic train: After a long day of smelly travel, you stop by for a steam bath. Do you then head for A) a Drink or B) Food?

Personally I'd go for food, but that's just me. I'm okay with checking the bar as well.

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>>4447857
>>4447851
You walk over to the Bounty Bar checking the south side of the water feature as you go.

The Bounty Bar itself seems to be one of those trendy standing bars that the orks have a reputation for liking.

The Mogwomp behind the counter greets you happily

>>4447884
Picking up that adorable dog!

>>4447884
"We'd like to browse the bounty catalogue. . What's with the barrels buddy?"

>>4447884
>>4447888
This

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>>4447888
>>4447892

>"We'd like to browse the bounty catalogue."

The mog gestures to the wall.

"Big ones this month. We have a Lich. Mad woman going by Splitrock. Wanted destroyed or sufficiently incapacitated that she can be be put in a lich-hold. Unsurprisingly, the reward on that is 80'000 gold.

Next we got a nameless elder dwarf. Got a pickaxe lodged in its head. It's been terrorising the communities that live in nearby forests. Only 5000 gold. But it's what they could scrape together.

Lastly we got Mandus Geef. Corporate crime. Underpaid and overworked his workers then fled to the Maja with drained company accounts. 40'000 gold. But I'm gonna throw in an extra 5 from my own stash if you catch that one. Good luck."

>"What's with the barrels buddy?"

"That's a place where you can rest your food and drinks while you doubtless discuss battle plans and ready your weapons. It's cool to re-use things right?"

>>4447899
You know anything about Edgewater?

>>4447899
Jorn been here today? Her Bet-Bet landed at Fetts around an hour ago.

>>4447899
Is that your dog?

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>>4447900
>"You know anything about Edgewater?"

The mog drinks an orange juice, thoughtfully.

"Troll trying to be a big wheel right? Kind of a pain in the ass to the smaller towns. Yeah, I try to keep my ear-equivalent to the ground. He's been past this town a couple of times but I don't know exactly what he's up to."

>"Jorn been here today? Her Bet-Bet landed at Fetts around an hour ago."

The mogwomp smiles.

"Why yes! She came in and got her usual garlic bread to go and some skvader pellets."

>>4447905
>"Did she mention where she was going?"
>"Are these bounties dead or alive by the way?"

>>4447905
"We happen to also represent a potion company Cold Iron (name pending). Do you happen to be looking to improving your stock that we could assist with?

>"Why yes! She came in and got her usual garlic bread to go and some skvader pellets."
So close and so far. She took her order to go, which makes me think she'll eat it at her hotel room.

We might have to drop the chase for the moment if it's about time to meet with Mike and HB.

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>>4447909
>"Did she mention where she was going?"

The mogwomp tilts his head.

"Unless I miss my guess, she's going to feed the skvader."

>>"Are these bounties dead or alive by the way?"

"Well the Lich is gonna be a bitch to actually kill unless you destroy it's phylactery - but that's still possible I guess. if you can trap it - by like smashing it apart and keeping it's parts separate that could work too. Liches are hard core. I think this is actually a posting from the GTU that's how spooked people get."

"The dwarf needs to get killed. They were clear on that."

"The corporate criminal is a dead or alive bounty. You can turn them over to the proper authorities if you think for a second they'll actually be appropriately punished. That's kinda why I'm offering 5000 gold from my own stocks."

The mogwomp shows an uncharacteristic serious expression for his race

"Call it a personal conviction of mine."

>""We happen to also represent a potion company Cold Iron (name pending). Do you happen to be looking to improving your stock that we could assist with?"

His expression softens once more.

"I don't sell potions here but if you brew up some grink or booze here and it any good, I will happily buy it from you."

>>4447927
>"It's not the best tasting in the world but we have some vodka that actually heals the effect of alcohol if you think anyone here would be interested.

>"Where can we find those skvader?"

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>>4447931
>"It's not the best tasting in the world but we have some vodka that actually heals the effect of alcohol if you think anyone here would be interested."

"I don't think anyone would be. No. Why did you make that?"


>"Where can we find those skvader?"

"Oh this town is full of them. Most of them gather around the benches by the town water feature, though."

>>4447937
There's our next stop then. Unless anyone wants a drink, we might as well head to the water feature.

>>4447927
>The dwarf needs to get killed. They were clear on that.
Didn't we need Dwarf marrow for something Surrey wanted?

>>4447937
>I don't think anyone would be. No. Why did you make that?
Well, it was kind of an accident, we used healing apples, you see. And as for who'd want it? Maybe someone trying to impress people with how well they hold their booze, so wannabe tough guys, maybe?

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>>4448014
Burstock says she's going to grab a few things from the bar and will be right out. You and Richter walk to the town centre, a little sick of the rushing around.

Basking in the sunlight. Untroubled. Someone is having a midday nap on the north bench.

===================
QM: it is 3am again. So I gotta call it a night for now. Back later!

>>4448035
dwarven bone meal, so we could get paid for getting something we were looking for in the first place

>>4448044
Waking Jorn from her nap isn't going make a very good first impression.
Maybe we can leave a note to come meet us in at our hotel room once she stirs?

>>4448044
Huh. Well, someone's about to get a rude awakening. Wait till Burstock gets there before making any moves, act non-suspicious until then.
(Sleep well chief, see ya soon)

>>4448044
It's okay to peek up her skirt if she's asleep, right?

>>4448044
We can't start shit in the middle of town. The guards will be on our ass if we do.
We should pursue diplomatic solution. We still have bonus to charm from the baths.

>>4448044
Those skvader are just adorable.

>>4448151
>>4448044
This

>>4448169
Yeah, this. Just lean on the foun- water feature, chat quietly, and wait until she wakes up, naps don't take that long. Maybe see if you can get the skvader to let you pet them.

>>4448044
And another girl that's better than Burstock appears.

>>4448247
>hating on burstock
How does it feel to have negative taste

>>4448044
If she is actually napping, now might be a good time to check in with our scouts to see if they picked up anything especially important or dire. Could be useful before we try to confront a mage who is unlikely to be happy to talk to us.

>>4448269
>liking self titled thots
She worst girl by far.

>>4448586
You're entirely alone on your puritanical views.

>>4448586
Who's your best girl then?

>>4448044
Let's take a seat on another nearby bench and wait for Jorn to wake up. Talk to Richter in the meantime.

>>4448586

she does what she wants and ask no apologies, she is a compleate chad and easely one of the best girls

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>>4448089
You're not sure. Burstock does not ponder on it for long. Richter imitates her, unsure what she's looking for.

Burstock shrugs

"Chick's got style. I was curious."[/b]

>>4448151
>>4448194
>>4448662
You decide to play it gentle. Burstock offers around a couple of 40s she bought.

You go to pat one of the skvaders and it takes off making a chirping noise as it flaps.

Jorn sits up on the bench and looks around. She looks worried when she sees you.

Jorn stands up and presents the bench.

"Oh I'm sorry folks! I got so used to having this bench to myself! Didn't mean to hog it! Park your butts! Plenty of bench to go around!"

>>4448828
QM: Messed up the text here, you can see where the blue is meant to stop.

I'm extra patch today, so that gives you guys plenty of chance to plan and say what you wanna say.

>>4448828
Maybe, maybe not. Can't quite say for sure unless you tell us a bit more about your troubles, ma'am.

>>4448828
Oh, she's GOOD.
"Well, you could start by telling us what is it."

>>4448828
first we should introduce ourselves, second we ask if shes the same size as burstock

>>4448839
This

>>4448844
Weird question to ask a total stranger

>>4448844
Let's not do that second question >>4448859
is right

>>4448844
at least measure it mentally kek

>>4448839
inb4 the favor is "die"

>>4448634
Richter, followed by Lumsden.

>>4448940
Good choices, but you're still a shit for hating on Burstock.

>>4448940
>>4448943
I'm not sold on Lumsden yet. I'm still waiting for her to get out of the "has-been feeling sorry for herself" role. (It doesn't help that every time the opportunity comes up it's always when I'm asleep. Also, she stopped herself from hugging Joey again this thread and nobody said a word. What the hell, people.)

>>4448952
Hey, she's gotta take it at her own pace. If we start pushing her she's probably gonna pull back even more, and besides, we got plenty of time in the airship to get to know her better. No need to rush.

>>4448899
Sounds good

>>4448955
yeah getting someone out of a shell that thick takes time and care, still we must remember to keep reaching out to her.

>>4448899
>>4448960
maaaaybe not the best time to be distracted by boobs

>>4448943
I don't hate her, I just don't want anything to do with her.

>>4448828
"Listen Jorn I'm gonna be honest, we're not here to cause unnecessary trouble but we know about Edgewater. We also know you had your reasons to want revenge on the town but we promised to help them and are willing to leave you alone in exchange for any info you have on him."

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>>4448839
>>4448841
>"Maybe, maybe not. Can't quite say for sure unless you tell us a bit more about your troubles, ma'am."

Jorn smacks her head a little.

"Right! RIGHT! Well, i don't wanna bore you with the details but basically. I've been putting my studies on hold to deal with some personal problems - kind of a gap year, you know? Well all the stuff I wanted to get done has just wrapped up per-fect-ly. Well, almost. Way WAY better than I imagined. Basically I got what I needed out of it and am now out and about again."

Jorn pauses a moment and takes a swig of drink.

"What I'm wondering, right? Is if I cap of my studies which would take, like a day at this point and become a prudemagus- card carrying prudemagus or just say fuck it and go full bin wizard. Just wander the land looking for fools to rinse."

>>4448899
>>4448960

While she's talking you give her a quick size up. Upper mid for folks you know. She doesn't seem to notice. Burstock does and gives you a small 'ok' gesture and mouths 'nice' at you.

===================================

QM: fwiw, Lumsden wasn't going to hug Joey this time, she was gonna tousle his hair.

>>4449176
She seems rather nice.
>"I'd say take the studies; might as well get certified, since it looks nice on the resume and all. But what did you need to get done? You doing okay?"

>>4449176
"I mean... I went full bin wizard myself, but if you're so close to finishing your career, it'd be a shame not to. Not having access to the specialist spells kinda hurts some, but in the end it all just ends up to the same point: get a varied party, shore up weakness."

>>4449176
>That is quite a coincidence I'm both studying to learn magic and on a gap year as well. Ended up owning a potions company through shenanigans.

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>>4449186
>>4449187
Jorn nods

"Yeah, that makes sense. I mean, if I'm gonna be seeing what's out there, being able to summon food water and bedding from nothing is gonna be stupid useful, no? I think you're right. I'm this close anyways, right?"

Jorn takes a crust of garlic bread out of her pocket and chews in thoughtfully. She takes a deep breath of the cool evening air.

She glances at your party and actually seems to notice you properly.

"You guys look pretty MLG yourselves. What brings you to Kretch? Dodging responsability?"

>>4449200
>"Looking for you, actually. There's some stuff we need to talk to you about. Just need to figure out if you're on the up-and-up, because you do seem pretty dece."

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>>4449205
>"Looking for you, actually. There's some stuff we need to talk to you about. Just need to figure out if you're on the up-and-up, because you do seem pretty dece."

"On the up and..? Oh! You must have found one of my old business cards."

Jorn does a small bow of apology.

"I'm not really doing business management so much these days guys. I'm sorry! Kinda trying to get into the magical thing. Been putting it off for so long you have no idea."

Jorn suddenly realises something

" 'dece' like, short for 'decent'? That is neat. I think I might use that."

>>4449241
"We're totally trying to make 'dece' a thing. Glad to have you join the cause."

At any rate, tis unfortunate, but good to know how things stand. Good luck with the finishing school thing, though! As for that talk...

Uhh, what did we need to talk to her about, again?

>>4449241
Actually, we were recently in Edgewater. Supposedly, you were involved in some stuff that went down there. We wanted to hear your side of the story.

>>4449256
Edgewater is the troll, Scadam was the place he terrorized.

>>4449266
Thanks, it's been a while since the last thread. QM, please assume Joey gets it right.

>>4449246
>>4449256
We are trying to track down Edgewater the troll, who's gang of thugs and gopniks terrorized several towns in the area. Jorn lived in Scadam with his husband, the mayor, but something went down, causing the town to send the husband in jail where he committed suicide. We believe Jorn joined up with Edgewater to get payback. We broke Edgewaters hold on Scadam, causing Edgewater and Jorn part ways.

TLDR; Jorn might know where Edgewater the troll has gone, and we figured she was wronged and rightfully angry and could be a valuable recruit to our company.

>>4449271
I don't remember us deciding to recruit her?

>>4449284
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/4110431/thumbs/1583639958395.png

>>4449241
"We know you worked with Edgewater, but don't know all the details. Right now you are our best lead on where Edgewater is and could use your help.

>>4449256
+1

>>4449284
Hey, more party members the better. We'll probably have to invest in a "shuttle" for them though. We already kinda recruited a Male goblin and if we add her we're well and truly "overstocked" insofar as bedspace on our airship is concerned.

It's gotta be a good shuttle though. Y'know, Inara's from Firefly quality. We do got a pretty damn fat stack of cash on us after all. We can probably get one if these fine folk are willing to live in the cargo hold for a month or two.

We should be nice but also ask her about Edgewater. I believe it was a primary reason we went looking for her in the first place. Gotta be consistent.

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>>4449256
>>4449299
>>" Actually, we were recently in Scadam. We know you worked with Edgewater, but don't know all the details. Right now you are our best lead on where Edgewater is and could use your help. We wanted to hear your side of the story."

Jorn get's a more serious look.

"oh."

She takes a deep breath.

"Cliff notes? My husband, Brandt was the mayor of Scadam. I helped run the finances. We had been having some problems. Both with me trying to balance my work and studies and with.."

Jorn lowers her head.

"other things"

She looks back up.

"This one journalist - and I use the term very loosely was always shifting more papers with speculation about us. I made no secret of the fact that there are blooches in my family tree. he acted like I was trying to hide it and kept on exaggerating mine and Brandts personal troubles."


She pauses, and has another drink.

"One time, I had to head up north - so I spent a little more time studying while I was up there.

While I was gone. This...tabloid shithead goes into overdrive. Spreading rumours. Hounding Brandt. One day Brandt loses his cool and backhands him. Journalist milks it for all its worth. Oversells his injuries. Brandt goes to prison and...it's too much for him.."

Jorn sniffs.

"When I get back, that Journalist has won over enough people in Scadam to be mayor. he changes things. Keeps more for himself. Eventually Scadam is just people who believed his words or friends of his he moved in to take over businesses when the good people who didnt believe him got sick of his policies and left."

Jorn shudders. Clenching her fists.

This is how I find Scadam. Everything I owned is scattered on the edges of town. What's left of it. All I have is what I left with. All I can do is vent. I cast spells at inanimate objects. Burn shit up."

Jorn has another pull of drink

"One day this troll finds me and says 'you look like you gots a bone to pick' and I do if I'm honest - I do. So I roll with him. Take some revenge on those who wronged me and mine,"

Jorn lowers her head again.

"But it goes too far. There are people I want to spook but not actually hurt. I use my magic against him where I can but he's too powerful and good people get hurt. Probably. I don't know what to do."

Jorn brightens up.

"Next thing I know, the journalist fuck who became mayor has been roughed up or killed and all the people who sided with him have been given the fright of their lives. You know? I just feel a peace at that."


Jorn finishes her garlic bread.

"Best yet. When I'm en route to cause more trouble, we find out that Scadam has been sacked. I don't know the details but basically everyone who needs a butt slap has got one and my despot boss has got cold feet. So I'm a free agent until he gets his shit together whenever that is. Probably never,"

Jorn smiles.