“Ah” you say “In truth I hadn’t thought about it, I mean, I know we’ll each need matching ones, you, me, Jal, Sofia and everyone else, but....”

“Good point” says Isla “I’ll get the others.” And she heads towards the door

“Wait!” you say “How big do they need to be?”

“No bigger than a silver piece” says Isla turning to you “They were usually done as a family crest, or the initials of the slave owner – I was thinking something like the Dalvin symbol really, but you can pick something else if you want – as long as it’s not too complicated Jianxi can draw it.” Isla then leaves to get the others.

You recall you and the others hadn’t actually settled on designs. Still the Dalvin crest of a stylised mountain and gate that symbolises the Barony guarding against threats from the Tribal Lands could work.

A few minutes later Isla returns with Jal, Sofia and Jianxi “I thought we could be the first” she explains to them “To make sure it works – after all we can always remove or change them afterwards.”

“Yeah” says Jianxi, a wooden case of tattoo ink and tools under her arm. She looks at you, “so are you going first Sireyi?”

“Wait, wait” says Sofia, holding up her hands “Run this by me again.”

“It’s simple” says Isla “We each get one small tattoo per person so we can identify each other – and send simple messages over long distances that should be impossible for another mage to intercept. Jianxi does the tattoo and I cast the spell – Sireyi then seals the spell to ensure that no one can break it without destroying the tattoo.”

“And how big do the tattoos need to be?” asks Sofia

“So big” says Isla, holding her thumb and forefinger about an inch apart.

“And what do they look like?” asks Sofia

“I was thinking the Barony symbol” says Isla with a shrug “Though the appearance doesn’t matter?”

“Ow ‘bout the location?” chimes in Jal “zat matter?”

“Not really” says Isla “you’ll feel the tingle no matter the location, on the hand or foot you might mistake it for pins and needles though – plus it would be kinda visible, so I was thinking the shoulders or maybe the middle of the back.”

Jal looks around at everyone with a grin “Well since we’ve not been shopping fer engagement rings, I figure this is just as good. With that said, I wanna pick the looks an’ places of all yer marks wot match mine, jobs a good un yeah?”

Sofia gives Jal a tolerant look “Jal” she says “You forget that we’ve actually met you, no.” Sofia turns to Isla and says “I think the Barony symbol will do.”

“Oh yeah!” says Jal “So we all wear Sireyi’s mark like we’re her property but she gets away without ours? That’s not fair!”

Isla asks you “So what should the tattoo’s look like? And where should they be?”

Appearance

>Dalvin Barony symbol
>Jal’s right – we each get to pick the others
>We each pick our own
>Other (what?)
>We’ll do this later

Location
>Shoulder
>Back
>Jal’s right – we each get to pick the others
>We each pick our own
>Other (what?)
>We’ll do this later

Pick the others means picking what goes on the other person, picking your own means you each pick what goes on your own body.

And lastly, Jal mentioned engagement rings. You realise with a start that you haven’t discussed this with your three fiancée’s.

>We’ll sort this later
>Rings of celestial iron (when I get a chance)
>We’ll go shopping for rings in Dornmer soon, I promise
>Other (what?)

Optional
>Ask everyone what they’d pick for the tattoos you are to wear – if you let them
>No really Jal, the truth please

FUCK YEAH PALADIN OF JOY QUEST

>>35750630
>Jal chooses the symbols
>Jal chooses where

Impress me, Jal.

>>35750760
No.

>>35750630
>We each pick our own; except Sireyi

>Jal chooses

>RIngs of Celestial Iron

>Ask everyone what they’d pick for the tattoos you are to wear – if you let them

Well, alright then.

>>35750630
>Jal's always right.
>Jal's always right again
>We will sort this later
Ask everyone what they’d pick for the tattoos you are to wear – if you let them

Sexy tattoos incoming?

>>35750630
Seconding >>35750823

>>35750630

>We each pick our own
>We each pick our own
>Rings of celestial iron (when I get a chance)
>Ask everyone what they’d pick for the tattoos you are to wear – if you let them

>>35750630
Wait, ignore >>35750935
Too tired to read people's votes properly.

>>35750630
>We each pick our own
>We each pick our own
>Rings of celestial iron (when I get a chance)>Ask everyone what they’d pick for the tattoos you are to wear – if you let them

>>35750630
>We each pick our own
>We each pick our own
>Rings of celestial iron (when I get a chance)
>Ask everyone what they’d pick for the tattoos you are to wear – if you let them

>>35750823
>We each pick our own; except Sireyi
>Jal chooses
>Rings of Celestial Iron

I don't want to know what they will pick for Sireyi NOW. I want to be surprised.

>>35750630
>Jal’s right – we each get to pick the others
>Jal’s right – we each get to pick the others
>Rings of celestial iron (when I get a chance)

ok, gonna do the Q&A. Letting everyone pick their own for the most part.

The only point of disagreement I can see is if Jal gets to pick one for you or not, I'll include a revote in the next post after you know what she wants

>>35751116

Oops, clicked the wrong post, sorry. Meant to quote >>35750630

“I think we should each pick our own” you say “But let’s hear your ideas - what would you each pick?” you ask with a raised eyebrow “If I let you?”

Sofia gives you a matching look back “I think I’d pick the Jalwayan crest” she says “paired with the Dalvin crest”.

You nod, that sounds sensible.

Jianxi gives you a teasing half-smile and says “maybe a diamond.”

“A diamond?” you ask, a little confused.

“Sure” she says “Since all the ladies love you.” Jal sniggers, Isla giggles and Sofia lays a hand over her mouth to try to conceal a smirk.

“Really?” you say in the driest tone you can muster.

“Well ok” says Jianxi, opening up her tattooing kit “not a diamond then, 4 interlocking circles, it’s easier to draw and it kinda symbolises you four, though I’ll never understand how that works.”

“Ok” you say “I guess I can live with that?”

“Isla?” you ask.

Isla blushes “I dunno” she says “I’ve never been very good with this, whatever symbolises saving someone I guess?”

“Angel” says Sofia
“Angel” says Jianxi
“Sexy Angel” says Jal

Ignoring Jal, Isla nods at Sofia and Jianxi “Wings I think” she says.

“And finally” you say “I realise I may regret this, but Jal if I let you pick, what tattoo would you want me to wear?”

“A sexy you” says Jal “wi’ just an apron on an nuthin’ else riding on top of a big serpent thing wot looks kinda like a dobbin ya ken and me riding behind yer wi’ me ‘ands under yer apron ‘an-”

“Wait, wait” says Jianxi with a pained look “That’ll take ages, and it would need to cover most of her back or leg to get all the details on.”

“Oh” says Jal, then thinks about it “’Ow ‘bout justa ‘and print?” she says “here” and indicates where said handprint should be by grabbing her own left buttock with her hand.

How do you respond?

>No thanks Jal, I’ll pick
>Is that *really* what you’d pick Jal
>Fine, me with an apron it is (joke, see how far Jal will push it)
>A handprint is ok
>Other (what?)

Others – your tattoos
>I’m ok with the designs others have picked for me
>I want to pick my own designs (what?)
>Other (what?)

>>35751354
>Is that *really* what you’d pick Jal
>I’m ok with the designs others have picked for me

>>35751354
>Is that *really* what you’d pick Jal
>I’m ok with the designs others have picked for me

>>35751332
>A handprint is ok
I’m ok with the designs others have picked for me

All my yes

>>35751438
>Is this ana greement with Jal?g it is.
Mind trying that again, in English this time?

>A handprint is ok
>I'm fine with the designs others have picked for me

>>35751484

Sorry, too out of it to type good.

>>35751354
>a handpring is ok
>I’m ok with the designs others have picked for me

There, I wanted to agree with Jal and now am fixing my post.

“Is that really what you’d pick Jal?” you ask, your tone leaving no doubt as to how little you believe her.

Jal folds her arms, leans back against Isla’s work bench and looks at you from beneath half-lidded eyes “What I’d ‘ave on yer” she says, a lazy smile on her face “Is a little ‘art fing, right ‘ere” she indicates a spot just above her collarbone “right on the pulse like, so’s every time yer ‘art beats, it’s beatin’ fer me mark, an’” she adds “th’ ‘art ‘d ‘ave words in it like *forever mine, Jal*.”

Sofia is giving Jal a look that you can’t really decipher, Jianxi looks surprised and Isla’s eyes are wide and has her hands over her mouth.

Please roll me Fellowship 1d20+15 to figure out what Sofia is feeling.

Also 3 votes for handprint I can see.

And finally

>A heart on my pulse at my throat it is then Jal
>Nah a handprint sounds more like the Jal I know
>Other (what?)

I’ll be counting the 3 votes already made, but people can change if they link their own vote AND this one.

Waiting until results of Fellowship check is ok too.

Rolled 7 + 15 (1d20 + 15)

>>35751614

Rolled 17 + 15 (1d20 + 15)

>>35751614
>Nah a handprint sounds more like the Jal I know

Sorry Jal, but we belong to more than one girl.

>>35751614
>Nah a handprint sounds more like the Jal I know
>>35751503

Like this?

>>35751687
yes, although only if you wanted to change your vote

>>35751614
>A heart on my pulse at my throat it is then Jal

Rolled 10 + 15 (1d20 + 15)

>>35751477
>>35751614
>Nah a handprint sounds more like the Jal I know
>leave the heart for Sofia

I voted for handprint because I want a handprint. The heart is...cute and kinda daw, but I think it'd be ebtter if she did that with Sofia.

>Success

It seems that upon Jal saying she wants your tattoo for her to be a heart right over your pulse Sofia is conflicted between 2 strong emotions: She apparently find Jal’s admission to be extremely cute and endearing, and also seems to be feeling a strong physical attraction to Jal at the same time.

>>35751736
Okay good, I was worried it was jealousy.

>>35751614
>A heart on my pulse at my throat it is then Jal

>>35751614
>Nah a handprint sounds more like the Jal I know
The "forever mine" should go to Sofia if she likes that. She is her first girl.

>>35751614
>A heart on my pulse at my throat it is then Jal
I'd feel kind of shit about refusing to get the more heartfelt tattoo, and I can't see any reason to get the other one given OP's last post.

>>35751354
>>A handprint is ok

>>35751614
>A heart on my pulse at my throat it is then Jal

>>35751614
>Nah a handprint sounds more like the Jal I know

>>35751614
>>A heart on my pulse at my throat it is then Jal

>>35751614
>Nah a handprint sounds more like the Jal I know
>leave the heart for her and Sofia

>>35751779

I can.

Letting Sofia have that instead. Or is the tattoos only for Sireyi and the party, instead of everyone getting one with everyone else?

>>35751870
It's the former, I believe, since we're the only one known to have a doppelganger.

>>35751808
>>35751820
>>35751846
>>35751849
Are you kidding me, anons?

Closing vote, counting

>>35751614
>ah a handprint sounds more like the Jal I know

>>35751888

You're not the only autist, it seems.

>>35751888
As cutee as it is, Sireyi belongs to more people than Jal.

>>35751950
It's about Jal's feelings for us, not ownership.

“That sounds adorable” you say to Jal “But maybe I’m not the right person to receive such a tattoo” you give Jal a meaningful head-tilt in Sofia’s direction. Sofia doesn’t seem to notice, being absorbed with staring at Jal. Jal looks at Sofia at your urging and gives Sofia a meaningful look and smile. Those two might need a little alone time after this conversation.

“So the handprint it is” you say, as Jal doubles up laughing and Isla and Jianxi give you a pair of very shocked looks.

As Jal is getting her merriment under control, Jianxi asks you “So any preference as to location for the others? Or just arms and shoulders?”

>Arms and shoulders is ok
>I want the other tattoos to be...(where?)

>>35752060
>Arms and shoulders is ok

>>35752060
>Arms and shoulders is ok

>>35752060
>the chest

>on my back, hidden by the wings.

>>35752060
>Arms and shoulders is ok

Arms and shoulders it is.

“Ok” asks Jianxi “Who is going first?”

“Not it” say Sofia and Isla simultaneously, as Jal just shrugs.

Jianxi turns to Jal “Ok, up on the workbench and tell me what design you want....”

---

“Really” says Sofia, as your turn comes around “I don’t know why you encourage her Sireyi, her hand on your....on your derriere indeed!”

It doesn’t hurt as much as you thought it would, though Jal insists the tattoo be life-sized.

Before the end of the day, you are all sporting beautifully-drawn tattoos. Most of yours are on your arms and shoulders.

[Character sheet updated]

---

With the issue of the tattoo’s decided, you still have to figure out what to do about this flight of dragons after you.

Cravgur told you that the dragons sometimes meet at mid-year and that Ryzan intends to gather them then and try to finalise a plan against you.

You could wait then and maybe present your case to the assembled dragons, or you could continue searching them out individually to try and talk to – though you might meet your double in either case.

What’s next?

>Go see Sorcha, the Old Red Dragon
>Go see Kempteris, the Young Adult Blue Dragon
>Go see Malhost, the Adult Red Dragon
>Go see Barrosim, the Adult Cloud Dragon
>Go see a different dragon
>None of these, wait until mid-summer

And if going to see a dragon, who is coming with you?

>3 Dragon allies
>Other allies (who?)

Please pick only 3 allies. If waiting until half-year wins this second part of the vote will be disregarded and a second vote on who to take with you to the half-year meeting will be called.

>>35752306
>Go see Barrosim, the Adult Cloud Dragon
>3 Dragon allies

>>35752349

>>35752306
>Go see Sorcha, the Old Red Dragon
>3 dragons

>>35752306

>Barosim
>Dragon pals

“It’s time to put these tattoos to the test” you tell your fiancées “We still need to make sure that we don’t suffer another attack by dragons.”

“I should going with you!” protests Isla, at the same time Jal chimes in “Dragons are cunnin’ buggers – ya’ll need someone wi’ wits ter watch yer back.”

“It’s best I take other dragons with me” you explain “There’s more chance they’ll listen to be then.”

“Yeah well” grouses Jal “if they are gonna be stupid, remember to call us.”

“Indeed” chimes in Sofia “And we’ll be right on your...rear” Jal giggles as the two of them leave the room arm in arm, heads close together whispering to each other.

“Are you really up to this?” asks Jianxi “I mean, what if your evil twin has a bunch of zombie dragons with her?”

“I’m not stupid” you say “if she won’t listen to reason, and we’re outmatched, I’ll get everyone out alive.”

“Good luck” says Isla, hugging you tightly.

---

You approach the lair of Barrosim, the Cloud Dragon.

“So what is a Cloud Dragon like?” you ask Nicolvren as the two of you fly high up into the sky with Ebonsong and Shahulzer “I’ve not heard much about them”

“Well” says Nicolvren “They’re storm dragons I guess: power over weather and lightning and rain and of course, clouds, that’s how they build their lairs, my making clouds solid.”

As the four of you search high about the clouds she explains further “They tend to not get involved in the affairs of...of other races, or dragons really – they see themselves as above worldly concerns, so it’s rare for one to listen to Ryzan, mostly they concern themselves with learning and philosophy.”

“What’s that?” you ask, your eyes picking out an oddly shaped cloud, almost like a castle on a large plain.

“Ah yes” says Nicolvren, following your gaze “That might be it.”

The four of you alight on the cloud, it’s like walking on thick damp moss – spongy and yielding, yet it takes your weight, and that of your allies in their draconic forms easily.

Ahead of you a wall of the cloud-castle parts, and you see a pair of dragons emerge – one black, and one combination of light blue and white, deep in conversation. They are not alone. With a sinking feeling you see that walking alongside them is two humanoid figures.

It’s your double and...is that Sofia?

They don’t appear to have noticed you yet, but they will soon, what are you going to do?

>Hide and watch
>Attack (combat options in next post)
>Talk to them (dialogue options in next post)
>Other (what?)

>>35752714
>Hide and watch

>>35752714
>Talk to them (dialogue options in next post)
Not risking them attaking the dragon, we already know the kill them.

>>35752714

>Talk to them
before they turn the dragons against us or kill them and turn them against us

>>35752714
>Hide and watch

Oh boy.

>>35752714
>Talk to them

Talk to them it is, writing.

It’s best you talk to them, not only to the dragons, but to your double as well. If you can solve this conflict through dialogue, it’ll be far better than solving it through violence.

You and your allies step forward confidently, you’re soon noticed by the dragons up ahead and they stop, perhaps 200 paces away.

“Who are you?” asks Barrosim “That you come to my home unannounced?”

“It is as I said” blurts out the black dragon “She has forced other dragons to serve her and now she comes for you.”

“So you said Xerfinzes” says Barrosim “And yet you show no proof of your claims, why are you here?” he addresses this last to you.

Talking to Barrosim

>I want to understand Ryzans plan
>I come as a friend
>You have been deceived (Xerfinzes lies)
>Don’t speak to Barrosim
>Other

Talking to Xerfinzes

>Why are you here?
>Leave or suffer my wrath
>Don’t speak to Xerfinzes
>Other

Your Duplicate

>We don’t have to be enemies
>Only one will survive
>Don’t speak to Her
>Other

Sofia (?)

>Who are you?
>Sofia why would you betray me?
>Don’t speak to Sofia
>Other

2nd option is Sireyi not realising that’s not the original Sofia

>>35753058
>I come as a friend

>Don’t speak to Xerfinzes


>We don’t have to be enemies
>Who are you?

>>35753058

>I want to understand Ryzan's plan. I come as friend.

>Why are you here?

>We don't have to be enemies.

>Who are you?
(the tattoos work, no?)

>>35753149
>(the tattoos work, no?)

They do, the option to not recognise is surprise/shock until Sireyi recalls she has the tatttoo

>>35753058
>I want to understand Ryzans plan
>Why are you here?
>Don't speak to Her
>Sofia why would you betray me?

>>35753058
>>35753149
Seconding.

“I want to understand Ryzans plan” you say to Barrosim, your voice carrying across the distance clearly “I am not your enemy and would gladly be your friend”

“It seems I have many people professing friendship to me today” responds the blue/white dragon dryly “I wonder what made me so popular all of a sudden. As to Ryzans plan for you – what do the earthbound dragons always want – money, power, magic – they have no care for nobler pursuits.”

“She lies!” yells Xerfinzes, a panicky look in the dragons eyes “She will trick you – beware her touch lest you fall under her sway.”

“Why are you here?” you ask Xerfinzes “What have I done to make you my enemy?”

“Enslaves those who stand beside you” shoots back Xerfinzes.

“We’re not enslaved!” yells back Ebonsong “You are!”

As the two black dragons begin hurling insults with Nicolvren and Shahulzer joining in, you pitch your voice to carry to your double, a quiet undertone in the noise of the draconic shouting match.

“We don’t have to be enemies” you say

“Of course” she agrees “Leave forever and I’ll take your place and everything will be as it should be.”

“That’s not happening” you respond “But you don’t need to follow the will of the Lord of Life, together we can-”

“You know nothing!” she spits back at you “You don’t know about the horrors he will unleash on this world, only I can defeat him!” Seems she’s not ready to listen to reason.

“You’re not Sofia” you say, making your voice carry to the girl standing beside your double “So who are you?”

“I will be Sofia” she insists “I won’t let you destroy me!” to your double you hear her add “We should take her now, whilst we have a chance!”

“ENOUGH!” Roars Barrosim loudly “You all seem to have some quarrel, so kindly take it off my doorstep!”

>>35753177

Since there are already doppelgangers involved, I doubt Sireyi would be all that surprised.
If anything, at most I can imagine her going "what are you doing here?"

Your double turns to him, bows and then starts to walk slowly towards him “My most humble apologies” she says, closing the distance between them “I came to you only out of concern, but I can see you are mighty and wise and are well able to defend yourself in your own realm”

Seem she’s trying to get close to him for some reason, close enough to touch him, though there’s a good 20 yards between them at the moment.

Nicolvren whispers to you urgently “Sireyi we can’t fight Barrosim in the clouds – he can easily make them grab and tangle us.”

Ebonsong and Shahulzer are still sniping at Xerfinzes – who is looking tense.

The fake Sofia is watching you, tense and ready to act.

Your double is sidling up to Barrosim

What should you do?

>Leave
>Try to convince Barrosim you are an ally
>Try to convince Barrosim your double is a threat
>Attack your double
>Other (what?)

>>35753529

>Try to convince Barrosim your double is a threat

I don't like the look of this...

>>35753529
>Tell our double to stay away from him.
We can pretty much guess what she can do.

Please roll me Fellowship 1d20+7 to warn him in time.

Use Angels Voice?

Y/N

>>35753529
>Try to convince Barrosim your double is a threat

Pally, that...conversation felt very dry and SNES-era RPG like.

Rolled 3 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>35753730
>Y
In a way that doesn't distract him from our double.

FUCH YEAH! PALADIN QUEST!

>>35753737
My apologies.

And thank you for the feedback, I'll try to do better.

Rolled 10 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>35753730
N

Rolled 15 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>35753730

Rolled 20 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>35753730
N, it might not be mind control, but it still trips detection spells against that kind of thing, which is the last thing we need right now.

>>35753730
To late to roll, but
>Y

Being in this dragons lair, it might not be the best idea to use your ability to affect emotions. After all it seems like your double has been trying to convince him that you’re dominating and controlling the dragons that follow you.

“Barrosim watch out!” you yell as your double approaches the cloud dragon “She’s dangerous!”

A mass of cloud springs up between Barrosim and your double, blocking her path – she bounces off the spongy mass and then takes to the air, trying to fly around the cloudwall. Barrosim simply sinks into the cloud beneath his feet, She flies into the patch of cloud he was occupying until recently and then turns around, looking for the cloud dragon. He emerges from the cloud dozens of feet away, arising from it as though it were water.

“Oh no” he says to your double, shaking his head “I may not know what your touch can do, but I’ve no intention of finding out – now leave.”

Your double flies high about the semisolid cloud and casts her gaze back and forth between Barrosim and you, seemingly undecided about what to do.

“Ah” suggests Xerfinzes to her “I think we should leave now, perhaps we have overstayed our welcome.” He’s looking around, his gaze darting back and forth.

“No” counters Sofia “Sireyi this is our chance” she says to your double “We need to seize this opportunity.” She’s drawn her sword and is focused on you.

Shahulzer is crouched and ready to leap “Just say the word” he rumbles to you “We can take them”

“I don’t recommend fighting here” says Nicolvren, backing up a little “Barrosim could try to drive us all out, I think whatever we do, we do it elsewhere.”

“Barrosim would join us if he knew how mean evil you is” suggests Ebonsong from beside you “You should talk to him, you can explain everything, he’ll listen to you."

Actions?

>Wait for your double to choose (you’ll get a chance to respond in next post)
>Attack (options in next post)
>Try to convince Barrosim of the truth
>Try to talk your double around
>Leave
>Other (what?)

Went with no to Angels Voice as those votes came in first, rather than asking for a tie-break.

>>35754152
As Barrosim to keep the peace while we negotiate with our doubles. This may be the only chance we have to talk to them where they won't attack us.

>>35754152
>Try to talk your double around
>If I can't fight them because I don't understand them, then help me. Or let me help you. There is aplace for everyone here.

>>35754268
*ask

>>35754152
>Try to convince Barrosim of the truth
>Try to talk your double around

>>35754126

>Talk to other Sireyi
Why do you wish to bend others to your service? You know me. You know you don't have to fight me.

>>35754152

Some combo of this:
>>35754268

and this:

>Try to talk your double around

If the others press on with Barrosim, then perhaps we should we mention the fact that members of Ryzan's gang are ending up dead and re-animated?

“Wait, please” you say to both Barrosim and your double, to Barrosim you add “We meant no offence by coming into your domain, I just want to talk; I ask that you witness what we both have to say, as it could have a great impact on the fate of the world.”

Alright” says Barrosim, eying both of you “speak”.

“One of the Lords of Life has reawakened” you say “and though it is a long way off at the moment, it will eventually come to these lands. I think we both want to fight it” you indicate your double and yourself “But we are using different methods.”

“Because your methods won’t work” your double says, descending to alight on the cloud, closer to you, perhaps a hundred yards away as Barrosim watches you both.

“You don’t understand how It thinks” she says “What it will do, the tools it has at its disposal-”

“If I can't fight it because I don't understand it” you interrupt, “then help me. Or let me help you.”

Your companions, and hers, are quiet as the two of you talk to each other, your voices easily carrying over the distance.

“Even if you understood” she says, clenching her hands into fists, pacing back and forth on the clouds “You couldn’t win, you’re too soft.”

“And you’re too hard” you counter “Why do you wish to bend others to your service? You know me. You know you don't have to fight me.”

“It’s the only way!” she yells back, turning to face you over the distance “I use the powers I have to win! You don’t know what the world will suffer if It wins – I have to protect them, I have to protect them all, I do what I have to! Do you think I like controlling others? No! It’s horrible, but it’s necessary.”

Response?

>Seems we can’t agree (end conversation)
>You’re wrong; together we can win (work with me, try it my way)
>Your tactics make you no better than It (try to get her to see her own mistakes)
>If I get harder, will you join me? (compromise)
>Protect who?
>Other

First 4 options are exclusive (please only pick 1 of these four), others are not.

Also please provide feedback on dialogue, better, worse, still shit?

Not fishing for compliments, just feedback on how to improve.

>>35754756
>If I get harder, will you join me? (compromise)
She is probably kind of right. In a fashion.

>>35754756
>Protect who?
>Your tactics make you no better than It (try to get her to see her own mistakes)

>>35754756
>Aren't you afraid that your way will be just as dangerous to those you want to protect? Let me help you, at least so you don't slip. We can aid eachother. Maybe I'm to lenient as you are too little. We can be strong where the other is too weak and forgiving where the other is too unrelenting. No one is as good a balance as we two. You can't beat it with just its own weapons, you have to know that.

>>35754756
>protect who?
>Your tactics make you no better than It

Order is important in this conversation

>>35754756

You're wrong; together we can win

If she's really the hard, no compromise win by any means necessary creature she claims, then why would she not want willing back up?

At the very least, this will move us on to the "There can only be one" dialogue

>>35754844
This

>>35754756
Me >>35754816
changing >>Your tactics make you no better than It (try to get her to see her own mistakes)

to >>35754844

Excellent write in anon.

>>35754756
>Protect who?

Also, I will second this option:

>>35754844

Other Sireyi probably right to an extent. Things may have to get harder and more uncompromising to win against the Lords of Life. It will be a war of the likes that nobody has ever seen before, and one that must be won. But the means in this case are just as important as the ends.

>>35754756

>You are determined to win at all costs. But what will those costs be? Will there be anything left protecting afterwards? (try to get her see her own mistakes)

alternately or in addition

>we're stronger together. In separation we are weaker. If we fight, the victor will be weaker still. Is that what you wish?

Not the same anon here, but I think it's better

Ok, nice write-in, using it.

Please roll Fellowship 1d20+21

And, Use Angels Voice?

Y/N

Rolled 1 + 21 (1d20 + 21)

>>35755017
In this one case, I don't think its a good idea.

>>35755017

NO

The last thing we want to do, right now, is prove her right. If we're logically sound, we'll at least have the backing of the white dragon what likes her knowledge and shiz

Rolled 1 + 21 (1d20 + 21)

>>35755017
N, I doubt she'd be willing to talk if we start fiddling with her emotions.

>>35755034
There are a lot of cases where it wouldn't be a good idea.

Rolled 18 + 21 (1d20 + 21)

>>35755017
>>35755034
Really? Of all time? Now?
Good god, am I glad we don't crit fail here.


>>35755049
HOWWW????!!!!

File: That is not okay.jpg (156 KB, 1058x727)

156 KB JPG

>>35755049
>>35755034
...I don't even know right now.

>>35755034
>>35755049
>>35755056
NO NONONONO
Can't we spend, Divinity Power or something? please?!
Our first crit fail at the most crucial moment.

File: 1throne.png (1.03 MB, 1800x2400)

1.03 MB PNG

>>35755034
>>35755049

But the future refused to cha--

>>35755056

Oh. Well.

>>35755034
>>35755049
Hopefully this is just a setback rather than a failure we can't recover from.

>>35755078
It's not the first.

>>35755048
forgot to bloody roll

dice+1d20+21

>>35755078

I don't think the dice system works like that, does it? I thought Pally always takes the highest of the three rolls, critfails don't override.

>>35755078
Use Deific Power (5) to auto-succeed?

Y/N

Rolled 13 + 21 (1d20 + 21)

>>35755106

Fuck sakes

>>35755108
A single one is nothing.
Two is an auto-fail.
Three is a crit-fail.

Same in reverse for critical successes.

File: yes.yes.yes..jpg (27 KB, 500x281)

27 KB JPG

>>35755125
YES

>>35755108

Welp, I'm a dumbass, I didn't read the dice rules real well.

>>35755125

I would lean toward yes.

>>35755099
>It's not the first.
Then I can't remember the other ones. Can't remember any other, but might have happened.
>>35755125
God yes. Yes. Pally! Doesn't even need to be auto-success, just the 18 roll.

Ok, writing

“Who do you have to protect?” you ask “who are you fighting for?”

She looks lost, her eyes unfocused, looking inwards “Sofia” she whispers “Jal, Mili, Isla, Vivi, my family....”

She shakes her head as if to clear it and glares at you “They might not be my family as long as both of us live” she say, her voice bouncing back and forth between hatred and sadness “But I’m still going to protect them, I’m going to find a way to kill It!”

“What sort of world will Mili and Vivi grow up in” you say “If you wreck it in order to win?”

“Aren't you afraid that your way will be just as dangerous to those you want to protect?” you continue “Let me help you - We can aid each other. Maybe I'm too lenient whilst you are too harsh. We can be strong where the other is too weak and forgiving where the other is too unrelenting.” You try to persuade her “No one is as good a balance as we two. You can't beat it with just its own weapons, you have to know that.”

She shakes her head “No, no I won’t risk losing, I can’t accept that” But she seems uncertain, as if she’s considering it.

This is one of the most important conversations of your life; you can’t risk it going wrong. You impose your deific will upon the world and your doubles eyes flicker as if she’s reliving all the moments of her life, and the experiences you shared until she was created.

[Deific Power -5]

Finally she looks straight at you “I’ll think about it” she says “Right now, that’s all I can promise.”

“Very well” you say “Take as-”

She holds up a hand to forestall you “I’m not finished” she says “If you want to show me how serious you are, then you need to eliminate Ryzan as a threat.”

“You know I won’t kill if there’s another way” you point out.

“And you know you will” she retorts “If there isn’t – but I’m not demanding his death, just prove you have the guts to deal with him permanently one way or another: kill him, banish him, make him leave, but it has to be permanent or you’re just putting off the problem to make it easy on yourself – and putting our children in danger.”

As you prepare a response she suddenly takes flight and rushes over to Sofia and Xerfinzes and the three of them disappear, teleporting away to parts unknown.

There’s a pause as everyone tries to figure out what happens next.

Finally Barrosim speaks “Not that this hasn’t been entertaining in its own way, but I’d really rather you leave now.”

>Ok (leave)
>I need to talk to you about Ryzan
>Thank you for your help today
>Other

>>35755499

>Thank you for your forbearance, Barrosim
>Could I bother you for a brief moment to talk about Ryzan?

>>35755499
>Thank you for your help today
>I need to talk to you about Ryzan
Sure word it like that >>35755565

>>35755499
>Thank you for your help today

“Thank you for your forbearance, Barrosim” you say “and your help”

Barrosim snorts “I didn’t do it for you” he says “If nothing else, a conversation between doubles – or is that opposites? – was interesting to witness.”

“Still” you say “Thank you”

He shrugs “Well, she’s gone, and you should be too.”

“Could I bother you for a brief moment to talk about Ryzan?” you ask

He sighs “If I say yes, will you leave afterwards?”

“Of course” you say.

“What do you want to know?” he asks

“Anything you can tell me about his plan to-” you say, cutting off as Nocolvren interrupts

“Actually” says Nicolvren “I was wondering why you were involved with Ryzan at all – I mean, don’t you cloud-types see us all as beneath you.”

Barrosim rolls his eyes “Ah” he says “Therein lies a grain of truth” he adopts a lecturing tone “Ryzan is no normal dragon.”

“Yeah?” says Shahulzer “three heads? I’m not impressed, I’ve heard of stranger things.”

“As I was saying” continues Barrosim, in an aggrieved tone

“Please continue” you say, motioning at Shahulzer to hush.

“Ryzan” says Barrosim again “Is no normal dragon, not only is he favoured by the Mother, and a receptacle for a portion of her deific power, but he is also a lich.”

You hear several sharp intakes of breath from your companions.

“Indeed” says Barrosim smugly “You didn’t know that, did you?”

“I didn’t” you say “Though I fail to see how...”

“I was getting to that” says Barrosim “Now liches, as you know, store their soul in a safe place, dragons would look through a foes hoard for such a trinket, or deep within the earth, locked away safe and protected.”

“But Ryzans isn’t there” you say with an intuitive leap “you found it.”

“Quite so” says Barrosim “I was flying high about the world late at night, contemplating the mysterious of the void above me, when I noticed a star out of place. Getting closer I saw a sphere of metal emitting light, suspended high above the world, were the air was almost too thin even for me to breathe. I made the mistake of touching it, and later Ryzan visited me, dragged me back to his lair and explained that if I agreed to join his mad plan, he wouldn’t kill me.”

“So you have no interest in him or me?” you ask

“No” says Barrosim, shaking his head “I am concerned with far more esoteric matters, though” he concedes “If one of the Lords of Life has returned, I might need to involve myself in worldly affairs, distasteful as that will be.”

>I need your help, will you come when I call?
>Tell me where Ryzans lair is
>Tell me how to find his phylactery
>That’s all (leave)
>Other (what?)

>>35756066
>Tell me how to find his phylactery, only if doing so would not put you at risk
otherwise
>Tell me where his lair is

>>35756066

I'll second this:

>>35756125

Fucking Demidracoliches.

>>35756125
This.

“How can I find his phylactery?” you ask “If I have that then he’ll have to-”

“Do whatever you want” finishes Ebonsong for you.

Barrosim looks uncomfortable “I can’t” he says, explaining “Ryzan moved it after...after, and” he adds “He cursed me so I can’t reveal its location or much about it – if I do he’ll know, and I’ll be in a lot of trouble.”

“Can you tell me where to find his lair at least” you ask

“That I can say” says Barrosim, and he gives you directions to Ryzans lair, deep with the Tribal Lands “It is heavily protected” he says “going in there will result in a lot of your allies dying with all the spells and wards and traps he has. If you want to face Ryzan you need to lure him out.”

“What if I break the curse?” you say

“Then Ryzan would know” says Barrosim “And would come looking for me.”

“Which would be one way of luring him out” you point out.

“I’ll thank you not to use me as bait” he says snippily.

>Ask Barrosim something else (what?)
>I’m going to find the phylactery, somehow
>No I need to break the curse and face Ryzan
>I’ll lure Ryzan out some other way
>Other

It is assumed that you will rest and prepare before doing any dangerous task of course.

>>35756553
>I’m going to find the phylactery, somehow

>>35756553
>I’m going to find the phylactery, somehow

>>35756553
>I’m going to find the phylactery, somehow

Why would Ryzan curse Barrosim with such a specific curse if he moved the phylactery elsewhere? That doesn't make much sense at all. Retaliatory curses are par for the course, but the whole point of hiding it is so that nobody knows where it is; why reveal the phylactery's location to Barrosim and then curse him so that he can't reveal its new location?

>>35756796
Ryzan is very vindictive

If Barrosim came across it by chance once, he might do so again.

>>35756845

So that would mean that Barrosim has a significant chance of stumbling across it if he just goes about his own business? Interesting.

Perhaps we should ask Barrosim about what exactly he researches in his own time.

>>35756911
Before I post the next update, please can I get an Intelligence check 1d20+7

Rolled 3 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>35756947

Rolled 5 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>35756947

Rolled 16 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>35756947

Rolled 7 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>35756947

“I’m going to find the phylactery” you say

“Well good luck” says Barrosim “I’ve no idea where Ryzan will have moved it to, now if you don’t mind....”

“Of course” you say “I shall leave you in peace.”

As you and your allies fly away, Ebonsong asks “So how are you going to find the Phylactery sister?”

“Searching for it with magic will be useless” you muse “Ryzan will have it protected from scrying, so I’ll have to try and second guess him.”

“Why curse Barrosm?” asks Nicolvren “If Ryzan moved his phylactery, it doesn’t make much sense.”

“To show his power” says Shahulzer “As Ryzan sees it, Barrosim trespassed and must be taught respect.”

“That’s not it” you say, shaking your head, something just doesn’t feel right about that, if Ryzan was that petty he’d have simply killed Barrosim.

“Barrosim came upon it by chance” you say “flying above the world, stargazing. Ryzan doesn’t want him revealing the phylacteries location, because Barrosim might chance upon it again!”

“What?” asks Ebonsong “I’m confused.”

“Ryzan didn’t move the phylactery far” you say, excited “just to another part of the sky – he’s either so set in his ways that he won’t pick another hiding place, or he thinks that anyone looking for it will look everywhere but the same place it was before, we just need to find a star out of place.”

“That could take weeks” complains Nicolvren “Months even”

“Right now” you say “It’s the best lead we’ve got. And if we find it, Ryzan won’t have a chance.”

-----

You are Sireyi, but not Valyenya.

You are sitting on a lonely hilltop miles from anywhere, thinking about the conversation you had today with your double.

You are dimly aware of Sofia and Xerfinzes nearby, both watching you, one worried, the other nervous.

Thoughts whirl through your head.

Could she? I mean really, could she have the strength of will to make tough choices? And if she does? Do I? If she can become harder, must I become more forgiving? Must I atone for what I’ve done?

You think back to what you’ve done. You used your powers to enslave several of the townsfolk, and Xerfinzes, ok so neither of those where ideal actions...

You made a double of Sofia: you don’t regret that, but maybe you could have treated her better.

You left ways in the wards to visit your children, you don’t regret that.

You killed Shaljurst and animated her. But she attacked you first, and resisted your touch, so that isn’t so bad.

If She is going to kill or otherwise get rid of Ryzan, what would you do in return?

>Free the townsfolk
>Free Xerfinzes
>Apologise to Sofia, treat her better
>Other (what?)
>No, I’ll see if She holds up her end of the bargain first

>>35757189
>>Apologise to Sofia, treat her better

>>35757189
>>Apologise to Sofia, treat her better

>>35757189
>Free the townsfolk
>Apologise to Sofia, treat her better

>>35757189
>Apologise to Sofia, treat her better
>Free the townsfolk

>>35757189
>Apologise to Sofia, treat her better

Feels wrong to not have Jal, man. Maybe we should give her a copy of Jal too.

>>35757189
>Apologise to Sofia, treat her better
>Free the townsfolk

>>35757189
>Apologise to Sofia, treat her better

Everything else was done for security reasons. Harsh, yes, but it might come in handy later. But there's no reason or excuse as to why other-Sireyi gives harsh treatment to her loved ones, cloned or not.

>>35757189
>Free the townsfolk
>Free Xerfinzes
If she kills him.
>Apologise to Sofia, treat her better
Now.
Can we get someone who looks at the stars a lot and ask them about odd star movement?

You stand up suddenly, you are aware of Sofia and Xerfinzes both flinching back, though Xerfinzes more than Sofia.

“I need to make amends” you say “Starting now.”

Neither respond, you turn to face them “I’m going to free the townsfolk from my dominion” you announce.

“Ah, very good Mistress” says Xerfinzes

“And” you add, walking towards Sofia and hugging her “I need to say I’m sorry”

Sofia goes stiff as you embrace her “What do you mean?” she asks in your ear.

“I’ve treated you badly” you say “I hit you and hurt you, and I’m sorry, I’ll never do that again.”

“I forgive you” she says, returning the embrace.

“I will make it up to you” you promise “I-I made you because I was alone, so very alone” you words are faltering at first, then more confident “I couldn’t stand the thought of being alone, I wanted you beside me because I love you Sofia, and I don’t want to live a life without you.”

“You’re sweet Sireyi” she whispers in your ear “I love you too.”

“And because I love you” you say, plunging on despite the pain “I know I have to make it right, what I did, so I promise you, somehow I’ll find a way to atone for ever hurting you, I promise.”

“I forgive you” repeats Sofia “Truly.”

“I don’t forgive myself” you say “Maybe I never will.”

“We still have a war to win” Sofia reminds you “If you want to atone, channel that desire into something useful, for example: what will you do, for an army I mean?”

“Recruiting dragons is out” you say “As is gathering items from their bodies. That leaves orcs and beastmen, undead and demons.”

“Or leaving it to her” says Sofia.

“Or that” you agree “As for an army....”

>Orcs and beastmen it is
>Undead
>Summon Demons
>Recruit Demons in Hell
>Other army (what?)
>Leave it to Her (for now)

After, Sofia asks you “So is it just you and me now, or are you going to want Jal and Isla too?”

>I’m going to make a Jal
>I’m going to make an Isla
>I’m going to free Isla from the Lord of Life
>No, no more copies
>I’m going to make a (who?)

>>35757697
>Orcs and beastmen it is
>Summon Demons

>I’m going to free Isla from the Lord of Life

>>35757697
>Orcs and beastmen it is
Stiffened by demon blooded recruits from Drache.

>>35757697

>Orcs and beastmen and undead it is

>I'm going to free Isla from Them

>>35757697
>Orcs and beastmen it is
>Undead
Undeads aren't necessarily evil in this setting, and they probably wouldn't like the necromancer kings coming to power.


>I’m going to free Isla from the Lord of Life

>>35757697
>>Orcs and beastmen it is
>>Undead
>I’m going to free Isla from the Lord of Life
>Do you want Jal?

>>35757697
>Orcs and beastmen it is
Give her some breathing room
>I’m going to free Isla from the Lord of Life
If we can do that then we can make a counter to them maybe?

>>35757697
>Orcs and beastmen it is

Start with locally-sourced troops. They're right there.

>I’m going to free Isla from the Lord of Life
>Ask other-Sofia if she's comfortable with other copies or not.

“We’ll make do with beastmen and orcs” you say “As for the other – I’m going to find a way to free Isla from the Lord of Life.”

“Is that even possible?” asks Sofia

“I’m Sireyi Valyenya” you say “I will make it possible.”

“If anyone can” says Sofia “You can, I mean, you saved me from having to marry Lord Nin-” She cuts off suddenly.

“It’s ok” you say gently “sometimes I forget that those things happen to someone else too.”

Sofia looks at you with tears in her eyes “I just, I’m sorry” she says “I forgot I’m not-”

You hug her tighter “You’re real to me” you say “And that’s all that matters.”

“I’ve been meaning to ask” you say “about Jal, and anyone else, would you...?” you trail off, unsure how to ask the question.

“I wouldn’t wish this life on anyone” says Sofia “But if you’re asking do I want Jal, do I want to hold Mili and Vivi again? Yes, absolutely yes, I just don’t think we have the right to.”

“Perhaps not” you agree

“Besides” says Sofia with a sly grin “You might mess the spell up and get us both with child again.”

“I didn’t mean to!” you protest, as Sofia’s laughter fills the evening air.

You’ve not found the phylactery yet, but you’ve only been looking for it for several night, it’s early days yet.

Still, the first light of dawn is showing on the horizon, time to get back to the keep.

As you land on the balcony and go into your room, you hear raised voices down the corridor – it should like Sofia is shouting at someone, very early in the morning.

“All the stupid, irresponsible, thick-skulled-” Sofia is yelling at the top of her voice

You don’t waste any time and quickly rush down the corridor to Sofia and Jals room, throwing open the doors you are prepared to face anything-

Except a topless Jal holding a blood-soaked shirt to her side.

“Hey Lo- er Sireyi” says Jal, swaying on her feet slightly as you perform a quick about face.

“Whatcha doin’?” asks Jal, as Sofia’s tirade pauses “Oh yeah, the girls, ya can turn ‘round now.”

You turn back around to see Jal using part of the shirt to cover herself. You lay your hands on her and use your divine powers to staunch the bleeding as Jal says “So the thieves guild here in Dalvin tells me I gotta putcha in a box, or I get knifed, never a dull one, eh?”

And with that I end the thread here.

Next thread in 10 ½ hours, or maybe 11 ½ - clocks go back tonight, I’ll post a 1 hour warning.

Thank you for playing, you’ve been great players and very patient.

Whenever my writing is lacking, please let me know with as much detail as possible, I will strive to do better.

I claim as my excuses today lack of sleep and a bad headcold.

Feel free to post ideas and feedback in thread, I will check before next thread.

>>35758255
Thank you for running.

I feel really bad for the two. I hope we can make this work with 6(7?) moms. And get them some kids of their own.

File: 1382733752786.png (24 KB, 377x561)

24 KB PNG

>>35758209

Well that post made me sad.

Thanks for the thread, OP!

>>35758255
Where do you live that they go back tonight and not Nov 2?

>>35758499

Europe, duh