>>4632129

It’s not hard to begin backing up, but you’re almost incandescent with anger when someone has the audacity to toss a sort of...water ball at you. It’s small, simple, without much power- clearly meant more as an insulting gesture than anything serious, but it’s enough to make you want to dodge and maybe kinda sorta blast their head off.

>(Intimidation) EXCUSE ME?! Just who do you think you are?! If they want to fight, then fine, this should be quick and dirty.
>(Meditation Room) I would have expected followers of Sylathi to react better. The waves don’t just crush what’s in their path. The water flows around it.
>Damnit, this is getting too much. Just leave and haul ass to the shipyard.
>Look, I gave you my word. What more do you WANT from me?
>Other

>>4632130
>>(Meditation Room) I would have expected followers of Sylathi to react better. The waves don’t just crush what’s in their path. The water flows around it.
Glad to have you back, boss.

>>4632129
>(Meditation Room) I would have expected followers of Sylathi to react better. The waves don’t just crush what’s in their path. The water flows around it.

>>4632130
>(Meditation Room) I would have expected followers of Sylathi to react better. The waves don’t just crush what’s in their path. The water flows around it.

>>4632130
>(Meditation Room) I would have expected followers of Sylathi to react better. The waves don’t just crush what’s in their path. The water flows around it.
nice

>>4632130
>(Meditation Room) I would have expected followers of Sylathi to react better. The waves don’t just crush what’s in their path. The water flows around it.
Good to have you back
Also if we're doing one post per day now I can actually vote for once.

>>4632130
>(Meditation Room) I would have expected followers of Sylathi to react better. The waves don’t just crush what’s in their path. The water flows around it.

>>4632130
>(Intimidation) EXCUSE ME?! Just who do you think you are?! If they want to fight, then fine, this should be quick and dirty.

>>4632130
>Drop a taser in the water as you go.

>>4632130
>>4632135
>>4632156
>>4632228
>>4632266
>>4632288
There’s also, surprisingly, a part of you that’s just...unimpressed. Or rather, disappointed. And even more, it’s that part of you that wins out, after a brief internal bout. “Well, that’s a shame,” you express, as you fixed them all with a disappointed, but not intimidated stare. “I would have expected followers of Sylathi to react better than this. When faced with an obstacle, the waves don’t just crush what’s in their path, do they?” Interestingly, that’s enough to get a few of them to stop. “No, it doesn’t. The water flows around it. So what’s preventing you from finding another way around this? I’ve offered you something, you just have to be patient.”

To your surprise, your words give them pause- several seem to realize then and there, while others, the priestess included, appear to want to debate the issue.

You really don’t have time for that, though, so you just bull through it. “We’ll be back in due time. And the kid silently steps up, nodding. At least there’s SOME semblance of self-determination in him. Let’s be on our way, then. We might be late.” You make your way out rather quickly, despite the occasional sputter and angry refutation.

-----

“Damn, but you cut it close,” the seafarer states as he looks down at you. Granted, you’d had to cheat a bit and start leaping, regardless of who might’ve seen, but you’ll be gone too quick for anyone to make a fuss. Your fellow traveler had been forced to hang on and had said something about ‘death denied makes it far more angry’ or something, but you didn’t pay THAT much attention. You’re more worried about the trip, now. “Captain’s this way. Follow me.”

The two of you are led out to the docks, where you can see a few ships moored- the one you’re being led to is a decently sized one- wooden, naturally, but a two sail ship. You can also see cannons on the side- 6 per, so 12 cannon, then. There’ll be a good few individuals on it by your guess. “Here we are. The Redhawk. She’ll be headed round for a trading enterprise, perhaps a bit of fishing on the way. We’ll likely arrive at the islands by week’s end, provided good weather and no aggression.” More than enough time to let Gargles recover, if possible...but still. Close to a week? Gah. “Less if’n our navigator keeps us true and the mages keep the waters split.” Huh. Shame you can’t help with that.

(cont.)

>>4634003
You’re led up the ramp, where an older man, tall and with a white beard and tattered jacked is mumbling over some papers and deckhands scurry about. Every inch the sailor captain. He barely looks over to the both of you before he fixes his subordinate with a raised eyebrow. “Travelers?”

“Aye, cap’n,” he confirms. “Wantin’ to be let off around the Baku.” His eyes drop down to you and your fellow traveler, likely sizing you up.

“I hear I’ll be put to work?” You ask. Might as well get that out of the way. “I’ve no problem with that. Used to being physical. Just tell me what and where.” You don’t know if mentioning your more magical skills would help, but probably best not to get them wondering too much of you.

“Mmm…” He looks at you with something close to approval, before nodding. “Cabin girl, then. You’ll be keepin’ the deck clear. Hand out rations. Anythin’ else we deem fit.” A jerk of his head towards the hybrid. “And what o’ him?”

“He’s…” damnit, what IS he? “Mage support.” That’s the best you can hazard, really. “Although I’ll warn that he’s...immature, in terms of understanding the world. Bad circumstances.”

Fortunately, he seems to buy it, despite the extra long eye on the kid. “Mmm...fine. Welcome aboard. Living quarters below deck- stairs down, to the left. Get settled, work starts after we shove off.”

You bother to give him a salute and a quick ‘yes sir’, which he nods at, and you let an inward sigh go. Finally. Doing some general chores should be a breeze…

>Roll 3d20 for events during the trip.

Rolled 15, 8, 3 = 26 (3d20)

>>4634004

>>4634004
Before we forget, we should ask our boss if he's interested in the fairy hybrid after all. He's offered to pay extra for figuring out how the crystal bird works and gave several other side-objectives along the mission, so I don't get why we haven't done this earlier.

Rolled 8, 11, 4 = 23 (3d20)

>>4634004
Here's hoping (not) for a giant sea monster fight.

Do this too boss >>4634047

Rolled 4, 18, 7 = 29 (3d20)

>>4634004

>>4634047
supportin'

>>4634047
+, might as well.
I was skeptical of it and then I remembered we communicate telepathically.

>15, 11, 7
oh boy

>>4635390
>15, 18, 7

>>4635471
That 7 might be the quality of the food, because damn if the cuisine of this world has been disappointing so far for Miranda.

>>4634004
>>4634012
>>4634051
>>4634053
The first day or two proves easy enough; it’s simple labor that he tasks you with; swabbing the deck, keeping things clear, relaying orders to off duty sailors, and helping in the galley for the majority of the time. It’s largely busywork, and you’re not really too fussed about it. You’re largely kept distracted enough that you don’t really see your traveling partner (you really need a solid name for him), but considering that there’s no complaints, you can only presume he’s doing well enough.

Around midweek finds you in a spot of fortune-or bad luck if you look at it another way, if only because there’s a massive amount of fish they come across. The decision is made to slow it down and reap the bounty of the area for the day, instead of continuing on. It’s a grand day for them as they cast out their nets…

But you’re gonna be the one stuck doing half the descaling and filleting and salting and whatnot. Blah. At least they’re enjoying the fruits of your labor. Yours and the kid’s, really. Seems like he’s been helping with keeping the waters parted and the wind at your backs. Good for him. Though how, you wonder…

It’s just a day later, however, that their good mood ends. You’re busy...well, not busy, but you’re swabbing the deck. Again. Fish guts and juice had been everywhere all yesterday, and frankly t needed cleaning regardless of who was doing it. Stank. But that’s when you notice an odd silence, where there was formerly still the jumping of fish. The water isn’t calm, but it is...odd. And there’s...seagulls? Or something similar... why so far out?

The answer is quick, as suddenly there’s a shout from portside. “HARD TO STARBOARD! GET THOSE SAILS DOWN! ALL HANDS TO THE LIFELINES! GRAND OCTO INCOMING OFF PORTSIDE!”

You barely have time to ask “Wait, Grand Wha-?” Before the waves suddenly crash into the hull, and you have to watch your footing as the ship starts rollicking.

“MEN, TO THE CANNONS!” is the cry as you hear shouting and...oh.

That’s a REALLY big octopus. Damn thing’s as big as the ship. Maybe bigger. Verifiable kraken, you think. Well, okay, baby kraken, but still it’s in the range... actually, yeah. Less of an octopus, more of a squid, you think… head’s too oblong. But BOY is it coming in fast for its size...

Another massive wave comes as the beast steadily swims closer and closer...you wouldn’t be surprised that it was lured by the masses of fish killed, butchered, eaten yesterday even with plenty to spare. Had even thrown some back. Chum, practically.

"GIRL!" You swivel to see the captain, red-faced and harried. "GET TO SECURING LIFELINES, ON THE DOUBLE AND READY FOR RESCUE DUTY!" Right. There was that...although you might could handle the situation a bit more directly...

>No, best to follow orders for now. You'll let them handle it unless worst comes to worst.
>Nonsense. You can handle this thing and end it quick- even if they might get a bit peeved.
>Other

>>4638471
She knows how to process fish? Damn girl knows her way around a knife.
Also called the giant sea monster fight.

>Nonsense. You can handle this thing and end it quick- even if they might get a bit peeved.
Time's ticking, and we can practice some lightning spells.

>>4638540
Forgot to note, our current ones are good enough to fry a whole unit of animal folks in water (Kolm job with Izumi).

>>4638471
>Nonsense. You can handle this thing and end it quick- even if they might get a bit peeved.
>>4638543
Yeah, but they were human-sized amphibian marshfolks - this thing is way too big for our zaps to be effective. We can use an Orbital Ring instead, to crush it and make it an easier target for the cannons.

>>4638625
and there's still a few days of travel left, so with 2000 mana recovered per day and meditation room bonus we can afford to use big spells.

Ah, we still haven't informed shadowboss of the fairy kid.

>>4638471
>Nonsense. You can handle this thing and end it quick- even if they might get a bit peeved.

>giant octopus
Can we slice some off and take it home for some fancy calamari?

>>4638471
>No, best to follow orders for now. You'll let them handle it unless worst comes to worst.

Time for some kraken takoyaki

>>4638471
>Nonsense. You can handle this thing and end it quick- even if they might get a bit peeved.
>A charged Magi-wave or Magi-cutter could probably do a number on a giant octopus.

>>4638471
>Other
Would it be better to just Great Barrier it? Makes us seem like less of a weapon, more of a defender.

>>4638471
>Nonsense. You can handle this thing and end it quick- even if they might get a bit peeved.

>>4639233
It's bigger than this ship, surprisingly fast, and the water it's submerged in would dampen the blows - I don't think magiwaves would be that effective against this massive beast. And it'd probably just dive deeper after the first hit and would try to approach us from beneath. Our ride is on the line, there's no place for cheap half measures.

>>4638471
>>4638540
>>4638625
>>4638841
>>4639233
>>4639860
...yeah, no, you think this’ll be better, all things considered. You can just deal with it quickly and drop any worries- might even get you off of cabin girl duty, no less. “Hold that thought,” you decide, before backing up, and hitting a running start- then leaping into the air, high as you dare and enough to hit the crow’s nest. It’s a thought that you could fly out to deal with the thing directly, but that might be a bit much to see dragon wings on a little girl. Not that you probably aren’t already getting shocked stares. Your charged Magi-wave is already up and ready, and with a small shout you hurl it towards the oncoming cephalopod.

The wave impacts its back, and you swear you can hear a gurgling cry from it as it seems to slow down- but not stop. You don’t have much time to think over it too much, however, as it continues its charge, now streaming brackish water behind it thanks to the blood flowing from its back. You can’t see how bad the damage is through the waterspray, but it might not’ve done as much as you’d hoped...

> Keep at it! It’ll drop eventually!
>...bah, screw the cover. You’ll just threaten them all into compliance if they get uppity.
>...okay, might be time to secure those lifelines after all.
>Other

>>4641664
> Keep at it! It’ll drop eventually!
>Other
Find the fairy kid. Us and him are the only guns around here, it's time to see what he's made of.

>>4641664
> Keep at it! It’ll drop eventually!
> Find the fairy kid

>>4641664
>> Keep at it! It’ll drop eventually!
>> Find the fairy kid

>>4641664
>>4641677
+
You're early(?) Handler.

>>4641664
>Other
>Catch it with an Orbital Ring so it could be shot with cannons
>Find the fairy kid
It's not dodging so let's just finish it in one move

>>4641766
The ring is a technique that was made specifically for situations like this, we've already seen that it's strong enough to hold a dragon

>>4641766
I think we'll want the kid to distract the octo first while we charge it up.

>>4641664
changing this >>4641754 to
> Find the fairy kid
>Catch it with an Orbital Ring so it could be shot with cannons

>>4641777
Don't see much point in distracting it if it's just charging in a straight line without giving a single fuck about being shot at

>>4641664
>>4641766
Backing this, thinking suppression is better than attacking.
> Find the fairy kid
>Catch it with an Orbital Ring so it could be shot with cannons

>>4641664
>>4641766
>>4641726
Might as well do it first then, switching to this.

>>4641766
supporting

Running shortly!

>>4641664
>>4641766
>>4641784
>>4641832
>>4641834
>>4643884

“THE HELLS WAS THAT?!” the captain shouts, but you’re busy thinking- that barely did anything to it...but can you-

“BAM!” before anything else, your mental considerations are thrown off by the report of massive cannons firing off your side; a series of splash indicate misses, and that’s when it hits you. Fortunately, the idea, not the squid, though as you’re running you realize there’s not much more time before THAT happens, either. You’ve got to at least slow the damn thing down before anything else can be done- but you’ve got just the trick for that.

>Current Mana: 9000/11000

You’re going to have to hurry it up for this one- an unstable Orbital Ring is still a useful one, especially in cases like this. The greenish purple ring is wavy, unusually so, but it only takes a few seconds to pull off- precious time in a critical situation. It’s slung forward as expanded as you can get it- disconnected directly as it is, it’s harder to widen, but you have to time it just right…

Closer…

Closer…

Now! You squeeze it shut as fast as you dare- the thing will probably still be able to swim, but not nearly as fast; your heart skips a beat as you notice it get caught a bit higher than you’d hoped- you think. You were going for around the lower half where the tentacles are, but you’ve gotten around the midsection, where they start forming. Not great, but...hopefully good enough.And with that…

“KID!” Where the hells is HE going to be- oh. He’s at the stern. Why? “Get down here!”

“Nature is destruction. It is change. What is this desire?” you hear him ask- and for once you’re kinda annoyed at his attitude.

> “Can you boost me or no!?”
> “You’ve got a lot of juice, right? Earn your keep and blow that thing up!”
> Other

>>4650881
>“Can you boost me or no!?”
it's time

>>4650881
>“Can you boost me or no!?”
One big gun is better than two smaller ones, with the other one being less than controllable.

>>4650881
>> “Can you boost me or no!?”
I don't expect him to hit this one since it's still moving. And the Orbital Ring explodes if broken, so boosting would be just fine.

>>4650881
> “Can you boost me or no!?”
Welcome back boss

Writing.

>>4650881
>“Can you boost me or no!?”

>>4650881
>>4650888
>>4650890
>>4650891
>>4650893
>>4650932
“Can you boost me or no!?” you yell over the cacophony. It’s not anything you’d like to keep a question, considering. “Magically, I mean!?”

“All things must have an end. But all need a source. I guess…” For the love of...okay, he’s coming down. Good. You were about to lamp him one otherwise. Well, maybe later. “Much like returning to-”

“Moan later, power NOW,” you insist, and he merely shrugs and-

...whoa.

Holy crap. This is almost like the seither stuff in how it flows through you- you can get why they were trying to use him as a power source, honestly! It’s...not refreshing, but it IS very very very filling and yes, you think you can do this now. There’s a buzzing in your ears that you can’t ignore but at the same time don’t mind, and…

Oh, wait, squid thing. Right. Okay! Has an orbital ring around it too and it’s still coming. Okay, time to handle this. Thoroughly. It's almost on you all, so you're going to have to move quickly to end whatever threat it's going to try.

>You’re gonna do the thing and detonate it. It’ll probably rock the ship more than a bit, but worth it, for certain.
>You should be able to lance the damn thing now- powered Magibeam should spike it cleanly enough. Though more questions are likely to be asked.
>Let the ship continue to pound it with cannonballs and keep on the defensive- maybe you’ll get a bit of leeway from the captain for showboating if you manage to block it entirely.
>Other

>>4651053
>>Let the ship continue to pound it with cannonballs and keep on the defensive- maybe you’ll get a bit of leeway from the captain for showboating if you manage to block it entirely.
Kinda want to downplay it and see how good the cannons are in this world.

>>4651053
>You should be able to lance the damn thing now- powered Magibeam should spike it cleanly enough. Though more questions are likely to be asked.
Screw the stares, this is our ride we're talking about. We might be able to get off trivial duties too since we can save the damn ship.
Aim for the limbs to slow it down first and then go for a headshot.

>>4651053
>Let the ship continue to pound it with cannonballs and keep on the defensive- maybe you’ll get a bit of leeway from the captain for showboating if you manage to block it entirely.

>>4651064
Now i want to aim for it just so the ship arrives at port with enough squid to supply a entire island.

>>4651063
>>4651053
Also we haven't secured the lifelines like the captain's told us to>>4638471 and everyone else on the ship is probably just standing there gawking at us, so there's a chance someone would fall off the ship if the boat rocks too hard from the ring's detonation and we'll get yelled at.

>>4651070
Duh! We need to get a tentacle bit for ourselves too. No one can resist a good kraken calamari.

Wow, 20 minutes flew by.

>>4651070
Is that a change or no?

>>4651086
Yes please

>>4651053
>You should be able to lance the damn thing now- powered Magibeam should spike it cleanly enough. Though more questions are likely to be asked.

>>4651091
Right, then. Writing for that.

>>4651053
>>4651064
>>4651070
>>4651092
RIGHT! This should be more than enough to work out what you want- which is why you race for the edge of the ship (can’t really remember nautical terms right now, not like it matters) and take aim. If you hit this right, then…

Well, calamari’s not the worst thing in the world to eat.

A flash of energy lances out from you as you take the shot- you can see it split the water briefly as it tears to, and then THROUGH the beast. Honestly, you’re surprised that it shot so cleanly- but you’re pretty sure from the massive squeal and the strange wriggling the beast does, that you managed to nail it clear through its heads. Or torso, or something...you’re not certain about squid-beasts, either. Doesn’t matter, again.

For a moment, you’re almost worried, however, that the beast will end up slamming into the boat simply due to momentum- but you’re blessedly quick to notice that no, it’s slowing down pretty fast...now hopefully the damn thing floats so you can begin cutting off the pieces properly. Maybe you can-

“GIRL!” Oh, right, that whole thing. “What in BLAZES was that?! Was ye DEAF and din’t hear ANY OF MY ORDERS?!”

...wait, really? He’s pissed about that? What the-

“GAH! HANG IT ALL. YOU AND I, WE GOT SOME TALKIN’ TA DO! MEN!” He turns away briefly. “GET THIS DAMN THING STRUNG UP! WE’VE SQUID TO CUT UP!” Oh, awesome. At least he had a similar idea…

-----------------

A few minutes later, you’re in the captain’s room with him, your friend alongside as he sits at his desk, carefully looking over some papers. He’s...eying you carefully. “Now, you listen ‘ere. I been travelin’ the seas a long time. Quite long, yeah? Ye hear quite a number o’ things travelin’ like I have. And a stunt like that ain’t common.” He gets up. Walks around to a window- no. To a painting. A somewhat abstract thing, but you can tell it’s something of a figure in a cloak. No identifying features, just a form and a hood. Shadows swirl around it, but on the outer edges, licks of red and orange color, like fire. Familiar, but not quite the same...

He frowns, placing a hand on its gold frame. “Not many folks alive what can do that. Not too many dead folks, neither. Heard tales, I have, though. Legends. Folk of impossible power. Strength of ancients. Things that came before. Could take human guise, if’n they wanted. Could even have children.” He sniffs. “Heard they’d died out.”

You continue to eye him, but he doesn’t turn to face you. Simply staring at the painting quietly. “My ship an my men’re the most important things to me, y’know. Would do anythin’ for ‘em.”

>Remain silent. Wait for him to continue on his own.
> (Intimidation) “Then I’m expecting better accommodations for the rest of the trip.”
> (Otherworldly) “Then the question is ‘will the legends seek or spare you?”
> “Sorry about disobeying. Thought it’d be faster.”
> “Look, I don’t want anything other than a nice trip. I don’t mind helping with the cooking, at least.”
> Other

>>4651284
>Remain silent. Wait for him to continue on his own.
Let's see where he's leading to with this. Knew he'd be mad, but he saw that we tried our best to stop the beast first and keep the ship safe.

>>4651284

>Remain silent. Wait for him to continue on his own.

>>4651284
>Remain silent. Wait for him to continue on his own.

>>4651284
>Remain silent. Wait for him to continue on his own.

>>4651284
>Remain silent. Wait for him to continue on his own.

>>4651284
>Other
>... Family and home are important.
>Ever wonder what those children would have felt? They probably wouldn’t know their parents. Might not have a home they’re comfortable being themself.
>Think they’d settle down, bury their powers? Others would probably think it’s wrong, that if they’d been granted powers then they had a moral imperative to use it. The powerful man who does nothing to stop a crime being as culpable as the man who committed it.
>Maybe they’d go out and try to find answers somewhere. Anywhere. Some clue as to what they really were, some scrap of knowledge that could help safeguard them, keep them from doing the wrong thing in front of the wrong people. Maybe pull together enough knowledge to find a way of being all of who they are without... breaking everything they cared about.
>... guess we’ll never know. On account of them all being dead.

>>4651304
I mean, self interest, if he just does his job and ferry us to our destination then we shan't incinerate him and his boat.

>>4651284
>>4651304
>>4651365
>>4651391
>>4651632
You end up remaining quiet. Whatever he wants to say, he’ll say it in due time.

...and eventually, he does. “They’ve been with me through thick n’ thin. An’ I respond likewise. Family, in a way. Tis a powerful thing, that feeling o’ family.” And it’s only then he looks to you, hard gaze inquisitive. “Can’t imagine not knowin’ it.” You meet his gaze evenly, and for a moment he seems fit to say something about it- before huffing and walking back to his seat. “S’why I don’t brook insubordination well. Even well intentioned, tis a threat to my family, girl.”

Hm. For someone who’s saying that, he seems awfully calm. You can’t help but feel like there’s something else to it. But what?

The answer’s when he continues a bit further. “At the same time, those beasts can and ‘ave torn ships apart in minutes. They’re menaces, an I’m not disappointed ta see it happen the other way around fer once. But, gettin’ away from the point o’ all this. Put it simple, I will.” He snorts. “Iunno what or who ya might be. I’ll keep yer secrets- no reason for me ta tell. But as fer what’s under that cloak...you best be less keen on high places if’n you don’t want folks seein’.” ...that sounded kinda pervy, but you get the feeling it wasn’t intended as such. “Curiosity ain’t good fer too much on the high seas. But it kin do a good lot on the land. I s’pect if you might be after what I’m thinkin’ yer after, wit’ the kinda power I jus’ saw? Might be worth yer while ta see about visitin’ Nestland Island, if ye can get anyone ta take ya.”

“Nestland Island?” you find yourself asking.

“One o’ the islands in Baku, o’ course. Furthest south, and a nasty place fer most folk. Beasties there are stronger an’ more dangerous than most. Some folks say it’s where the last o’ the old, primordial beasts back in the day live. If you’re ta find anything, it’d be there.”

‘Interesting…’ you hear a voice whisper. ‘It may be worth our while to investigate. What I can sense of MY power is diminished, but not wholly absent. There is a wide net to cast, but that area may well be within it.’ Hmm...well, then.

“O’ course, I DO need to keep up appearances,” he mentions further. “An’ that’s why you’ll be held to swabbin’ the deck til' shines and til' we land.”

...maybe you should roar at him a little. Just to spook him.

(cont.)

>>4656424
----------------------------

The rest of the trip was uneventful, if filled with squid dishes. It's just getting into nightfall when you at last make landfall at the Maku Islands, specifically a place called Port Wheela. It seems rather...open air. Not a lot of big buildings, but a lot of flat and smaller ones, very wide. Even from the deck you can make out a great number of individuals, Wildlings in particular. The place seems rather active for the timeframe, with a number of hooting and hollering individuals in the distance.

As you head off, you pass by the captain, who nods once.

>Thank him politely and be on your way. You have accommodations to acquire.
>Give him one warning. "Be on guard. Here soon be dragons."
>Other

A Cool Thing might be happening soon regarding this quest. Eyes peeled.

>>4656426
>Give him one warning. "Be on guard. Here soon be dragons."
He scratched ours, we scratched his.

>>4656426
>Give him one warning. "Be on guard. Here soon be dragons."

>>4656426
>Give him one warning. "Be on guard. Here soon be dragons."
reeee

>>4656426
>Give him one warning. "Be on guard. Here soon be dragons."

>“Nestland Island?” you find yourself asking.

>“One o’ the islands in Baku, o’ course. Furthest south, and a nasty place fer most folk. Beasties there are stronger an’ more dangerous than most. Some folks say it’s where the last o’ the old, primordial beasts back in the day live. If you’re ta find anything, it’d be there.”

An island full of roaming XPs sounds like a good place to test out the Healing Barrier we borrowed from the nerds, long overdue.
I want to ask for more squid to bring home too, but our bag doesn't work as a makeshift freezer. Maybe there are ways to freeze time inside one of it's "rooms"?

File: from thread 18 - wild wes(...).png (10 KB, 1563x100)

10 KB PNG

>>4656426
>>Give him one warning. "Be on guard. Here soon be dragons."
>>4656589
I think there might be a store in the Intersection that specializes in camping gear and portable stuff. Flashpoint's heavy scout team had their own portable grill.

>>4656426
>Give him one warning. "Be on guard. Here soon be dragons."

>>4656426
>>4656450
>>4656518
>>4656520
>>4656545
>>4656668

Well. He did you a solid. Might as well do one for him. Which is why you lean in closer vaguely, and give a single warning, couched in a whisper. “Be on guard. Here soon be dragons.”

You don’t see his response, but you do hear the strangled words as he starts to say something but manages to restrain himself. You’re fortunate enough to get a couple bags of cut squid from one of the sailors- seems they meant it as a thank you for your efforts earlier. They’re just small enough to fit in your bag. Will be nice to have, you figure. Maybe take some back home for later. It wasn’t bad eating.

But, with that, you’ve got work to get to. You’ve got one location targeted for now- Nestland Island. But from what you can see, there won’t be any locals taking you at this time of night, despite all the commotion. Wonder what that’s about, anyway…?

You get your answer sooner than later as you walk the streets and get closer into the city- seems like there’s some sort of festival going on, or perhaps some sort of night time street fair- there’s a number of night stalls set up and offering various craftworks and food, but there’s also some performances as well- risque dancing, to your surprise, as well as what looks like combat demonstrations, and off in the distance, some sort of fireside tales.

You find yourself looking towards an older Wildling man, enjoying the proceedings more sedately on a nearby bench. “Excuse me, sir. Mind if I ask what the occasion is?”

The grey-furred fellow grins. “Ah, tis the annual Nights of the Moon Sisters. Local celebration of ancestors what helped bring this place up. Three nights, it is!” Ahh. Simple, but understandable. “Lotta visitin’ folks come by for the performances, hearin’ the local legends, and the wares. Plenty to see tonight, and the last one’s tomorrow!”

Hm. Good to know. “Anything you’d recommend?”

He shrugs. “Take yer pick! You like fightin’, there’s some demonstrations of old Wilding combat arts by Master Unli. He’s got plenty of experience and stories to go with it. Or if you’re less about that, you can have a sit by the fire, hear about some history in the Storyteller’s Circle. That’s not far off. Else you could just have a wander- there’s other stuff happenin’, but I ain’t no tour guide. I just show up fer the food, eheh!”

Ah. Well, there might be opportunity there...if you don’t think you’d rather find an inn and head to bed. Likely daylight will bring its own interests.

>Check out the Old Fighting Arts demonstration.
>Have a sit by the Storyteller’s Circle. See if they say anything interesting.
>Browse and see what and who else might be out there.
>Maybe you’d better just turn in for the night…
>Other

>>4659338
>>Have a sit by the Storyteller’s Circle. See if they say anything interesting.
Figure something relevant to our goal might be mentioned here + the boy would love to hear some stories.. And I'm kind of a sucker for lore dumps.

>>4659343
and I bet people there have a few tales about the beasts that we'd likely encounter on the Nestland Island.

>>4659338
>Have a sit by the Storyteller’s Circle. See if they say anything interesting.

>>4659338
>Have a sit by the Storyteller’s Circle. See if they say anything interesting.
what >>4659343 said, they might contain intel.

>>4659338
>Have a sit by the Storyteller’s Circle. See if they say anything interesting.

File: The singing creature.png (98 KB, 1577x563)

98 KB PNG

>“Nestland Island?” you find yourself asking.

>“One o’ the islands in Baku, o’ course. Furthest south, and a nasty place fer most folk. Beasties there are stronger an’ more dangerous than most. Some folks say it’s where the last o’ the old, primordial beasts back in the day live. If you’re ta find anything, it’d be there.”

so, what are the chances of encountering the singing creature from the tale we read in Gran Torun's library?

Also, if the fairy boy's boost is comparable to Seither then we can use it to enhance our gauntlets' restoration spell and repair our clockwork turret. And there's also a mysterious green orb with a crack in it that we've picked up in that Drogan Grand Fortress, might fix it as well.

>>4665907
I sure hope this won't become relevant, it's either getting dragged into fae business or grumpy kidnapping victim creature. both can't possibly be good. probably,

>>4671920
I'm upset we haven't burned any town/village yet. I hope we cna at least do one of those at the final run.

>>4671945
Well, the next island is supposed to be full of hostile fauna, and maybe the people who've tampered with shadow king's magic are there too. A good opportunity to try out all the cool new toys.

>>4671945
we will eventually burn something down. unless the kingdoms are that incompetent, or we did spectacularly well to throw them off track, we will face some sort of desperate last standing

>>4659338
>>4659343
>>4659411
>>4659448
>>4659461
The Storyteller’s Circle might be worth your while, if they’re telling anything interesting. Even if there’s mostly just fables, they could be telling something of worth. Which is why you find yourself sitting down next to a number of curious folks- mostly older, you can’t help but notice. Seems the younger crowd are less interested, though there are a few young adults here and there, it seems.

In the center is a tall, tall Wilding, taller than most, you’ve noticed. Older, too, with long, bushy fur for a beard, largely greyed out and everywhere akin to a mane. It’s, combined with his clearly worn and tired cloak and walking stick makes him the quintessential picture of the wizened old man, and his animated movements tell that despite this, he’s still plenty spry, it seems. “And for such a thing- such a thing! To happen right here, the very heart and soul of our ken- why, it drove the young lass to tears!” Hm… seems like you ended up in the middle of one. Would be hard to figure much out from this. “And traveled, she did, straight into the deepest, worst part of the jungle. The beasts, however, they knew her plight! And they saw her tears, and they felt pity, and stayed away. However, there was one what didn’t, no! It was a young leaf-eater, plump with youth and unknowing beyond what they must have. But this beast, why, it had a heart as all things do. And it was moved, and so it found itself wanting to protect her, this strange creature that continued on, despite her clear pain!”

As things continue on, it’s clear that this is more of a fairy tale...you think. As far as you can guess, it’s more about the legend of a young girl who became one of the goddesses first followers and how they came to help settle the land. No doubt fun for most, but not what you’re hoping for.

“...and so thence it was, that the time of the Sister of Pity had passed, but never forgotten! We should all be so respectful as to know mercy on those that do not know of it themselves; but never forget that one must stand strong, even in the face of sorrow, to protect that which we hold dear.” He gives a bow, and is greeted with great applause. Lifting his head, he gives off a snaggletoothed grin. “Now then! These old bones have more than a few more stories to tell! Any with a suggestion, hm? Any at all?” Several hands go up and suggestions ring out.

Hmm...This could be your chance!

>Ask about a story related to the Nestland Islands.
>Ask about a story related to the local powers. Any strong individuals?
>Ask about a story related to the legend you read from the library.
>Other

>>4672980
>Ask about a story related to the legend you read from the library.
Uh oh! Sidequest hook. I'm a sucker for those.
But do consider my vote to be for the Nestland if this option loses out.

>>4672980
>>Ask about a story related to the legend you read from the library.

>>4672980
>Ask about a story related to the legend you read from the library.

>>4672980
>>4672997
>>4673009
>>4673025
You raise your hand. “What about legends?” you ask loudly, but not yelling. It’s a skill that you’ve managed to learn over the long years. “I’ve heard there was a legend of a fairy and a strange beast that captured her.” Glancing around, you seem to have attracted some attention around it with that. “I don’t know much else about it, however...but it might’ve happened around here?” A lie, but it’s not like they realize that. He’s not too put off by it, either, his wild grin still on his face.

“Well, then! An interesting one, this ask! Not a common one, an’ more for the learned folks, it is! But, ah, this old one knows a few old things, as it so happens! Learned by experience, I was! And so we’ll talk about that ‘un, fascinatin’ lady. Nooow...lesse, where ta begin…”

And so he begins. Much of what he starts off with is very similar to what you know already; the faerie, the mysterious thing, the imprisonment...but it’s during the imprisonment that you hear something else. Something new.

“And so during the creature’s flight from the odious fairy, it found itself lost, and worried, an’ it’s way was lost. The fairy had many things and people under its sway, it did. And it time, it started getting closer an’ closer...for a while, the creature thought it’d be caught. But then! Another creature- young and curious, a small little pup o’ a Wildling it was. Not like how we are, though, nah. T’was one o’ the first- before even our Sisters from earlier, he was. Made from the many of creations into a singular beast, it was. And he was smart. Gifted, he was. Saw the other, and thought it was odd. Most of them weren’t possessed of a thinkin’ mind, but this one was. Figured to be cryin’ was a horrible thing. And so, he took the lil’ creature aside, and asked, ‘For why do you cry?’ And it said ‘Because that which I loved to do I cannot, for the memories it brings, and I would be hunted by the fairy that wants me. And so I run.’ Well, he thought that didn’t sound good at all. And this little thing, this Wilding pure of intention and with a proud boast, said ‘Well, I am very good at hiding. Perhaps I can teach you, and we can hide from whatever hunts you ever again!’

(cont.)

>>4673403
And so it did. And they learned- all around the lands, which were but one large island so long ago. It learned the ways of hiding and silent travel by our forefather, and his offspring, and soon that which hunted the creature was searching far and wide, and yet could never find it. The fairy vanished, indeed- perhaps thinking what it coveted was no longer of this earth- but that’s a falsehood. Or so my pappy told me. Said that the fairy- which was no mere ordinary fairy now- was in fact thinking of ways to search the whole of the earth at once. It's never happenin', though. And so jus' ta be safe, the creature remains in hiding. Rumor has it somewhere on these isles still. Eheheh, o’ course, no one’s ever found the creature, but they say if’n you manage to travel deep enough underground, you’ll hear it- singin’ again like it so loved, at last at peace.”

There's clapping and good natured approval from the audience as he finishes, and he gives you a nod. 'Not so often we get folk wondering such tales. Good ta talk about an' old an' rare one, it is!'

Hm. Well...you'd rather not gain too much attention. Might be best to head off for now...or at least stay quiet. You can't hear any more battle cries, so the exhibition must have ended. And the stalls seem to be rotating in and out. Chances are those up now may not be up later if you want to visit, and vice versa.

>Remain here, but quietly and observe.
>There might be something worthwhile around the vendors...
>Perhaps you should turn in for the night instead.
>Other

>>4673407
>>There might be something worthwhile around the vendors...
we might find the last fairy statue here. or the rest of the fairy totems.

>>4673407
>There might be something worthwhile around the vendors...

>>4673407
uh, and where's the boy?

>>4673443
Sitting. He hasn't said anything, but he seems very interested in the stories.

Sorry, meant to put that in.

>>4673444
it's just that the last mention of him was 2 weeks ago, so I wasn't sure if you were trying something sneaky or legit forgot to mention him.

>>4673407
>There might be something worthwhile around the vendors...

This is the island with the fairy mushrooms right? Let's get some

>>4673407
>There might be something worthwhile around the vendors...
What are our options for spelunking?

>>4673407
>>There might be something worthwhile around the vendors...
See if they've got the last fairy statue we're missing, as well as any unusual magic mushrooms for Mewla and the nerds.

>>4673407
>>4673423
>>4673440
>>4673528
>>4673628
>>4676722

Hm. Might be a good idea to see what else there is to be seen. Looks like the attractions don’t all last all night. You’re going to have to stick your eyes out- and maybe convince your silent ‘friend’ here to do more than just gawk. He’d not said a word since you’d walked up, and even now he’s giving you a sort of hangdog look as you rise up to leave. You can tell the question’s on his lips...but he doesn’t speak it. Instead, he just looks down and gets up as well. It’s almost amusing how petulant he’s acting. Never grew up properly but still acts like a teenager. Amazing. “Alright. Let’s see what else is all out there…”

What greets you are a number of sights and smells as a vast number of late-night booths provide a number of local cuisine as well as a variety of things to sell from other booths. You can see a number of clay vases, other small jewelry, and other things. You have to admit, they’d be nice to look at otherwise, but...well, you’re hoping for something else. What that something is, you aren’t sure, but... something less tourist-y, at least, right?

“Pardon me, miss? You, in the cloak?” You blink, and turn to see a small, elderly lady- not much taller than you, lightly tanned, but with a bald head, large green eyes, and in a silken, purple vest with a dark green dress underneath it. She’s got a small booth of curios, it seems... “Right, right, you. You’ve got a look about you. Fiery eyes. Says you’re looking for something interesting, right? Not the norm. Might you be interested in seein’ if my wares can stoke that flame?”

Well, might as well...you approach, and notice that there’s a number of things on her stall, although you couldn’t say as there’s a theme. “Oh, now, glad for it, lass! You’re a brave one, you are. That’s good! Now, lemme tells ya- there’s a story to everythin’. An’ these here have innerestin’ stories, they do! Can’t tell much of ‘em meself, though, too old...and mebbe I don’t know all of it, ehehe!” Right…

“Such tales to be told through the wielder,” your ‘friend’ speaks up suddenly. “The story never ending, always changing, always enticing, but such torture as to never truly know how it ends…”

“Ooh, I like ‘em!” she speaks. “Perhaps a bit difference of opinion, but I like ‘im! Now then- tells ya what- I’ll letcha have onna these if ya care for it- fer a smallish fee, o’course. But only the one- can’t let a body get too greedy fer stories, hm? But alls you need to do is reach out to what speaks to ya.” Odd. You take a closer look at her wares…

(cont.)

>>4676914
One of them is some sort of pendant...but the chain is half snapped- useless for wearing. The pendant itself, made of old bronze, seems to be of a strange design- if you were to hazard a guess, it’d be a morass of snakes twisting in on each other around some sort of sun or perhaps star. Another is a small statues- pitch obsidian, and of a trio of figures of varying sizes. You’re not sure what the figures are meant to be of, but they all are quadrupedal, and seem to be facing each other. You’d almost call it aggressive, but you’re honestly not sure. A third is a ring- a large, gold band too big for your finger with a jade band inlaid into it. Upon closer inspection, you can see engraving on the inside, which to your eyes reads ‘Upon the hand of the master this ring goes, and none other. Upon the inner throne of the world the master sits, and none other. With band and blade in hand shall he sit upon his throne once more, and the reckoning shall come.’ Huh. Fancy. The last thing is a red crystal that looks as though it’s been broken and put back together, but that’s all there is about it. You’re not sure what else is there about it, but...there it is.

“Now then, lass,” the old lady says amusedly as she watches you closely, a twinkle in her eye and a grin on her face. “Tell me. What speaks to ya?”

Hm...what to reach for?

>The pendant.
>The statue.
>The ring.
>The crystal.
>Other

File: file.png (1.19 MB, 1400x700)

1.19 MB PNG

>The pendant.
A "smoking sun" is the symbol of shadowboss
>The statue
Island beasts? Dragons? But they're missing wings.
>The ring
Pic related, definitely doesn't belong to our boss. If we choose this, can always ask later.
>The crystal.
No idea.

>>4676916
I'd say
>The ring.
but we should also
>ask the kid if he fancies anything.

File: Pierrot.jpg (21 KB, 300x300)

21 KB JPG

>>4676916
>The ring.
Even if the ring itself does nothing, at least we can ask Nura to make something useful out of it. We could probably fix the pendant or the crystal with our gauntlets, but I find the ring more interesting.
Also I think I know a fitting name for the boy:
>Pierrot
a stock character of pantomimes, the 'sad clown'. If it's too fancy/too on the nose, then we can go with just Pierre.

>>4676916
>>4676957
ah, what the heck, might as well ask the kid first then>>4676955

>>4676916
>>4676955
Taking this too.

>>4676916
>The ring.

>>4676916
>The statue.

>>4676916
>"Would you like to know what the inscription reads inside this ring?"
>Is the kid interested in anything?
>"What is the deal with that red crystal?"
>The pendant. If it's to a vote.

NEW THREAD:

>>4681541
>>4681541
>>4681541