Welcome to Land of the Gods! This is my first quest, although I have DMed with friends many times before. Some basic housekeeping:

1) *********NEXT GAME AT: **************

2) Character info pastebin will go here as needed

3) Twitter @landofthegodsQ
I will keep this updated with times for the next game, and I'll answer dms here, too.

4) email landofthegodsquest@gmail.com
I'll try to answer emails as well.

5) Choices offered are almost always suggestions. You can certainly suggest other alternatives I haven't listed.

6) While I am keeping track of stats behind the scenes and doing dice rolls and whatnot, my goal is for you to never have to think about the mechanics of things. Make your choices, play the game.

7) Plot armor is nonexistent. What happens, happens.

8) This is not a smut quest. THIS IS NOT A SMUT QUEST. I truly have nothing against smut quests, but this is not one of them. That's not to say that sex doesn't exist or won't be acknowledged as is story appropriate, but it won't be the focus and it won't be gratuitous.

>>36060973
>Reah, the Calm Harbor and God of Sailing
Or
>Virus, the First Vine and God of Arts

>>36060985
>Naxos, the Howling Wind and God of the Dead

>>36060973
>>Anhur, the Howling Demon and God of War

>>36060985
>Naxos, the Howling Wind and God of the Dead

>>36060973
>Virus, the First Vine and God of Arts

>>36060973
>>Naxos, the Howling Wind and the God of the Dead

>>36060973
>>Naxos, the Howling Wind and God of the Dead
Let's get these subjects to learn about health.

>>36060973
>Reah, the Calm Harbor and God of Sailing

>>36060973
>Virus, the First Vine and God of Arts

>>36060973
>Virus, the First Vine and God of Arts
Time for some alcohol.

>>36060973
>Reah, the Calm Harbor and God of Sailing

>>36060973
>Virus, the First Vine and God of Arts

I'm starting to see a tie growing, so let me post the longer descriptions for Naxos and Virus.

Virus, the First Vine and God of Arts

Virus is a perfect example of the "creation" of a god. His primal element was not miraculous at all; he merely managed to be the first grape vine ever discovered. His city grew up around his original grove after the art of winemaking was discovered. His connection to the finer things in life formed not long after. Now his produce is traded across the land and his priests spend their time discovering new forms of beauty.

attitude: let's all get along and love each other. Have some wine! Now let's talk...

vs

axos, the Howling Wind and God of the Dead

Mystics and hermits had visited the rocky cliffs of Naxos for hundreds of years to meditate. The cliffs' unique shape forces the wind through them, forming otherworldly wails. It was said that if you listened long enough, you could hear the voices of the dead calling out from the rocks. Well, enough people had listened for long enough to establish this as an accepted truth. Now a community has formed on the outskirts of the cliffs serving those who listen to the voices and the spirit that controls them.

attitude: I've been here for a long time, and I'll stay here a long time still. I have more secrets than you know, and you shouldn't try me.

Come on.
>Gurpal, the Hungry Swamp and God of Writing
Who wants to be some lame skeleton god?

>>36061113
>attitude: let's all get along and love each other. Have some wine! Now let's talk...
Dionysus MK2, here we GO.

>>36061113
>Naxos
pssshh...nothin personnel......kid.......

>>36061113
Naxos

>>36061113
Virus seems good. Would have preferred a female god, but he seems good.

>>36061113
Goin
>Naxos

"Ya mind closin a window or somethin?"

>>36061113
>Naxos

>>36061113
Virus please.

>>36061113
>Virus is a perfect example of the "creation" of a god. His primal element was not miraculous at all; he merely managed to be the first grape vine ever discovered. His city grew up around his original grove after the art of winemaking was discovered. His connection to the finer things in life formed not long after. Now his produce is traded across the land and his priests spend their time discovering new forms of beauty.
Yup, seems like I want to be playing.

I've got 5 for Virus, and 5 for Naxos. 3 for Reah, 1 for Anhur.

Descriptions for Reah and Anhur:

Reah, the Calm Harbor and God of Sailing

Reah formed from seafarers who were ever grateful for the quiet harbor they called home. They would leave offerings in baskets weighted with rocks and sink them down to the bottom of the bay. People began to notice that the water of the bay remained perfectly smooth even during the worst storms, and a thriving fishing community developed. It didn't take long for the best sailors to make the city their home.

attitude: I aim to explore and search for new opportunities. Do you have an opportunity for me?


Anhur, the Howling Demon and God of War

Born from one of the malevolent will-o-wisps, Anhur grew into a Greater Demon before defeating an entire tribe of warriors in battle. They were so impressed with His prowess that they became his followers. Bloodthursty and violent, he doesn't get along well with the other Gods. His people were outcast to the edge of the Wastelands, where they remain today.

attitude: RIP AND TEAR! I yearn for war, but my bad reputation makes it hard for me to get one without everyone else piling on. Ally with me and I'll kill you last.

>>36061156
So you understand ghost intelligence as shonen edge?

>>36061113
>Virus

>>36060973
>>Virus, the First Vine and God of Arts

Alright, one more minute, but I'll probably call it for Virus.

>>36061188
Virus

>>36061113
>Naxos
God of secrets, here we come!

Let's just go Virus. Reminds me of Mr. Wines.

>>36061113
>Naxos
Most other deity quests are perky and helpful wanna try an old and grizzled god

>>36061233
You may want to use a Final Destination.

>>36060973
I like all of these except the last one, and the 2nd to last is pretty meh. I'd go with either Virus or Kondar, maybe Reah, but I have yet to read the descriptionns in the thread, Axos is still possible for me.

>>36061233
Do a final Destination vote.

>>36061277
>>36061262
Virus won already.

Calling it for Virus. Update inbound.

>>36061287
I'm certain there was no samefagging on either side. /s

>>36061188
I like Reah, to be honest, sea trade is powerful, and being the god of wine doesn't really appeal to me, I'd vote Virus if it was nature+arts, but I suppose Nature is Eshar's domain.
I wonder about Odon though, seems interesting, might vote for him if I had a description.

>>36060973
>>36061113
>>36061188
Gurpal. I hope it's sphere also includes learning.

>>36061314
You really should have done a final destination, if just to be sure, this is kind of an important vote.

>>36061326
15 unique posters, 20-something votes. Now we can know for sure.

Alright, I'll admit that I'm completely new. How do I do a final destination? Totally willing to do it, btw.

>>36061399
Don't spend so much time with Chargen. Just get on with the quest.

>>36061399
Please continue with the quest.

****Fine, fuck it.****

That's it. You are Virus. It's all coming back now--well, most of it is, anyway. Life returns to your limbs, and you sit up and look around.

You've awoken in the middle of a verdant garden. Tender vines snake their way up tastefully carved pillars and statues. Stone walls surround the inner court, but the night sky looks in from the open air above. In the center of it all is a great fountain spurting great jets of wine high into the air. The luscious purple liquid rains down in a fine mist, giving everything a dreamy haze.

That's your high priest there beside you. What was his name again? Hmmm, no... wait! Kalat! That's his name. But you used to call him something, something to do with the kind of advice he always gave you:

>Kalat the Cowardly
>Kalat the Cautious
>Kalat the Prudent
>Kalat the Bold
>Kalat the Insane

>>36061399
Assign a number to the vote options, and have people post only that number and nothing else in their post when voting, if it includes anything else it doesn't count, time limit is 5 minutes.

>>36061445
>Kalat the CHARMING
Do you accept write ins like this?

>>36061445
>Kalat the Cautious

>>36061445
>>Kalat the Cowardly

>>36061445
Good luck with your quest OP, I'm out.

>>36061445
>Kalat the Lewd

>>36061445
>>Kalat the Cautious
Have someone sensible to counteract the god of wine, yeah?

Kalat the Insane.

Because he'd probably be fun at our parties?

>>36061445
>Kalat the Insane
He will become best sidekick

>>36061460
Totally!

>>36061445
>>Kalat the Insane
Kalat tried too many batches of wine
>>36061460
Do you really want to trust /tg/ into more social diplomancing?

>>36061476
You were never in, you window shopper.

>>36061460
Seconding that

>>36061460
This

>>36061460
Seems good.

>>36061491
Thanks for clarifying.

>>36061445
>Kalat the Prudish
Let's go for irony.

>>36061445

>Kalat the Prudent

>>36061460
I personally don't like that idea.

>>36061547
I personally do.

>>36061460
Second.

"Kalat the Charmingly Insane! I remember you now!"

Kalat almost bursts into tears. He falls prostrate before you. Between sobs he belts out "My Lord! It is my greatest joy to see You again. Your people have missed You dearly for many years. To see You again has fulfilled our greatest dream."

"Wait, many years? What happened?"

"Well, You... died, my Lord. Dead dead dead dead dead! But we have resurrected You and all will be well now."

You died? Like a mortal? What's going on here? You certainly don't have any memory of dying. But then again, you can't seem to remember much at all.

"How long was I out?"

"Over 4 generations, my Lord. But I'm sure you remember it all!"

"Hold on. If I've been gone 4 generations, then why are you still Kalat? Shouldn't you be dead by now?"

"I am Kalat, and my father was Kalat, and his father was Kalat, ever since Your first Kalat, Holy One. One of my sons will be Kalat, as well. I am here to serve you faithfully and truly in all things."

Now you're even more confused.

>"Eh, we'll come back to this later. Kalat, tell me what's happening right now."
>"Hold up Kalat. Why don't you start from the beginning, and tell me the whole story."

>>36061572
Story time go!

File: 1378941602838.png (1 MB, 891x695)

1 MB PNG

>>36061572
>Charmingly Insane

File: THUMB UP.jpg (18 KB, 300x265)

18 KB JPG

>>36061572
OP. You dun good. I like it.

>"Eh, we'll come back to this later. Kalat, tell me what's happening right now."

>>36061572
>"Tell me anything urgent that's happening right now, but otherwise start from the beginning."

>>36061572

>"Hold up Kalat. Why don't you start from the beginning, and tell me the whole story."

>>36061572
>>"Hold up Kalat. Why don't you start from the beginning, and tell me the whole story."

>>36061615
>>36061572
That seems good.

>>36061608
Don't enjoy it? You can leave!

>>36061615
This seems good

>>36061650
You know, you're kind of an ass.

>>36061676
Didn't realize we were making animal comparisons here, well if I'm a Donkey then you've got to be a Blobfish, your face is almost a perfect match!

>>36061572
>"Hold up Kalat. Why don't you start from the beginning, and tell me the whole story."
Also, is charming insanity a genetic trait of Kalats?

>>36061714
haha epic :^)

Kalat bows his head. "I will recite the story the way my father told it, and the way his father told him, and the way his father told him, and the way his father--wait, no, how many generations was it? ANYWAY"

>The invaders came from across the sea. They brought brought war and devastation, burning through the countryside and ravaging the towns. They brought fearsome new weapons: wind-up bows that could pierce straight through a copper breastplate, war engines that could batter down the strongest walls, and swords and armor of gleaming Mithril never before seen. And they brought their gods, a Pantheon of cruel and vengeful deities who forged a pact long ago that bound all of their cities under one rule.

>The scattered independent gods of Punt and their city militias could not hope to stand against the combined might of a nation. One by one they fought, each too petty to offer more than token aid to the others, and each too proud to accept aid for themselves. And so, one by one they fell. Their people were enslaved and Their cities occupied. Their great temples were rededicated, and Their holy treasures were stolen to fill the coffers of the foreign lords. And the Gods, Our God included, were taken to the highest mountain in the land and Sacrificed, their Blood seeping into the earth.

>Those who were still able fled to the countryside, but most stayed in the Cities, toiling under the new Gods and their invader priests. Our harvests fed their armies, and our pastures raised their new Sacrifices. Our craftsmen filled their treasuries, and our forges armed their troops. The people worked harder than ever before without ever enjoying any of the result.

1/2

>But we never gave up. We didn't labor mindlessly like cattle: we learned well the lessons the invaders taught. They had us dig deep mines for Mithril, and we learned. They had us toil over hot furnaces to smelt the metal, and we learned. We learned how to shape it into swords, and eventually, we learned the final secret: a sword of Mithril may slay a God, and a man in Mithril chain might walk amongst their most mighty Miracles and emerge unscathed.

>For 4 generations we suffered as slaves under foreign Gods. We thought that our torment would never end. Our occupiers certainly never thought so, but their plans came crashing down one cold autumn. It was right after the Harvest Sacrifice when the rumor began to spread--the high priests couldn't summon their Gods. There was no obvious change at first, just growing fear in the guards' eyes. But the little things began to add up--whispered prayers went unanswered, sacrifices unattended, and minor angels nowhere to be seen. Eventually, a drunken brawl spilt over into the streets, and sparked the first protest. The guards put it down brutally, of course, but for the first time they did so with no divine aid and several casualties of their own. That was all the proof we needed. It didn't take long for an entire city of work-hardened slaves to overthrow some spoilt nobles and their severely outnumbered guards.

>Similar rebellions played out all over the land, and soon our cities were largely invader free. Strangely enough, in the months to come no new ships arrived from overseas. We were alone again, but this time without our Gods. Many of us were fearful, but our priests have held true, leading Prayers and making Sacrifices for our Gods' safe return. And one day, They will awake to lead us once again.


Kalat, who had previously been standing still as a statue as he recited the lines, suddenly snaps out of it and begins dancing around you.

Yaay, storytime! I do hope I remembered my lines.

2/3

"As for what's happening right now, we're having a PARTY! And You're the guest of honor!"

You're led outside the room to an overlook. Far below you is an enormous throng of people, dancing, celebrating, playing music, and drinking wine. Just seeing them feels GOOD. Intoxicating and exhilarating.

You feel strong, both in body and mind. You fall into a trance, almost, as you let the waves of adoration wash over you. You can feel the excitement in the crowd as they gaze upon their God for the first time. As your mind leaves your body, you look out over your entire city. Every house, every street, every person belongs to YOU. You can hear every word spoken, see every act occurring, feel every prayer whispered in your name. You feel instantly bonded with your City in this moment.

Kalat breaks your reverie by gently punching you in the back of the head.

"My lord, there are many people here to see you. Who should I send in first?"

>The noblemen
>The merchants
>The craftsmen
>The commoners
>"No one. I wish to spend more time with you and my priests first, Kalat."

>>36061976
>>The commoners

>>36061976
>The noblemen
Then priests, then merchants, then craftsmen.

>>36061976
>The commoners

>>36061976
>The commoners

>>36061976
>The commoners

>>36062067
>>36062031
>>36062026
>>36062020
u wot m8

>>36062085
What are you on about?

>>36061976
>>The merchants
>>The craftsmen
one of these

>commoners

You playfully leap off the overlook, allowing yourself to gracefully descend down into the middle of the crowd.

"My people, I have returned for YOU!"

Everyone crushes around you, trying to touch their God. So eager are they that several of your worshippers are trampled underneath. You chuckle to yourself and pick them back up with a wave of your hand, restoring their broken bodies with a gentle caress.

At the edge of the crowd, 4 better dressed men sit on a raised platform overlooking the proceedings. The one on the far left gets down off his seat and makes his way to you. He throws himself upon the dirt, face down on the ground.

"My Lord, I am Eli, the mayor. The people have been practicing their dancing and singing for a week now in preparation for your return. I hope everything is to your satisfaction."

Behind you, the crowd parts, and ten beautiful dancers, 5 men and 5 women, array before you. They perform feats of acrobatics set to music before breaking off and fading into the crowd, who then begins singing together in impromptu harmony.

"A miracle, a miracle!" goes the cry. "Let's see a miracle!"

Eli looks up briefly with terror in his eyes. "Who said that! Who would dare ask for a miracle in front of our God?"

The crowd can't tell, but you heard exactly who it was. A young man, perhaps 16, now cowers in fear among his friends.

>Teach the young man a lesson in blasphemy (write in what)
>Give the crowd their miracle (write in what)

Give me your best miraculous ideas, and I'll pick from them.

File: Rustle dude notices somet(...).jpg (47 KB, 386x395)

47 KB JPG

>>36062274
>Teach the young man a lesson in blasphemy (write in what)
Err....Turn him into a girl?

>>36062274
Make everyone instantly drunk.

>>36062274
>"Miracles are not given on demand, but as I deem them."
>"Except for this one time, that is!"
>Make beautiful paintings/engravings appear on the walls/buildings, improve the people's clothes, let the wind play music, and let it rain wine/wine spill forth without end from a single bottle in our hand, and pour it for everyone.
Obviously the infinite wine trick should stop once people have had enough to drink.

>>36062274
>Give the crowd their miracle (Filled wineglass with wine of their choice in it)

>>36062274
Grapes on the vine burst into fireworks.

>>36062424
Backing

>>36062370
this

>>36062370
I like it, let's concentrate on arts.

>Make beautiful paintings/engravings appear on the walls/buildings, improve the people's clothes, let the wind play music, and let it rain wine/wine spill forth without end from a single bottle in our hand, and pour it for everyone.

You reflexively whip around to face the crowd. The dancing stops, the music draws silent, and you even hear a couple of shrieks. You puff yourself up to twice the height of a common man and bellow "MIRACLES ARE NOT GIVEN ON DEMAND, BUT AS I DEEM THEM."

Then, with a sly wink towards the young man, you pull a novelty size giant bottle of wine from seemingly nowhere. "Except for this one time, that is!"

The crowd bursts into cheers as everyone suddenly finds themselves with a full glass in their hand. Overhead, hanging grapes shoot off into the air, bursting into purple flowers that rain down as floating droplets of wine. The natural beauty of your city seems supernaturally enhanced tonight. Every fresco gives off a soft, touching light. Every statue seems to come alive on the spot. Every carving writhes and dances along the walls.

All of your other visitors are far too drunk to speak with you right now, so you spend the rest of the night drinking with the people. You don't just get drunk--you ARE drunk. You are the wine and the drinker. You are the dance and the music. You floooow throughout your city, hanging over everyone like a crazy moon. You're in every corner laughing, on every wall dancing, and on every street singing. There is no mortal or god in the land who could have partied harder than you last night.

The next morning, a very hungover Kalat finds you curled up sleeping in the fountain in your Temple. You laugh and pick him up, tapping him lightly on the head to clear his mind.

"It wasn't easy, Lord, but I've rounded up all those scallywaggles too busy partying to talk o you last night. You still want em?"

>The nobles
>The merchants
>The craftsmen
>"No Kalat, not right now. I still want to know about..."

>>36062748
>The nobles

>>36062748
>The craftsmen

>>36062748
Just tell me who to kill

>>36062748
>>The nobles
first for politics
>>The merchants
>>The craftsmen
then these for economy and arts

>>36062818

"Everyone! Wait, no, not everyone! Some maybe? Definitely some. But not all, no no no!"

"Or maybe all?"

>>36062834
this

>>36062748
>The craftsmen

>The nobles, then the merchants, then the craftsmen

Two men in fine silk gowns are led into your garden. You can still smell the wine on their breath, but both hold themselves up remarkably well.

"May I present Cyneric of House Sophron and Nazar of House Deseret."

Both bow carefully before you at the waist before looking back up to you. Cyneric speaks first.

"Oh Great One, I have come on behalf of my family bearing a great gift." He claps his hands, and a small army of servants wheels in an enormous statue. It's a young woman, nude, holding a lute. It looks golden, but you can tell it is gilded bronze. "May this forever grace your Treasury and add to your might, and may it serve as a reminder of our dedication to--"

"Enough!" Nazar steps forward, brows furrowed. "My God, I must apologize for speaking out of turn, but this mewling worm stirs up such anger in me! For 4 generations now my family kept worship in your name, while those of House Sophron collaborated with our invaders! Now he seeks to buy his way back into your heart? It is blasphemy and cowardice, I say."

He turns and motions, and a second group of servants wheels in a large frame. "I give you the handiwork of the city's finest craftsmen." A finely filigreed grapevine winds its way around the edge of the painting, framing a bunch of grapes made from solid amethyst. "Wealth is not enough. I offer you loyalty."

Kalat leaps into view. "Timeout!" He pulls you aside for a little advice. "My Lord, it is of course your choice what to do. You could accept both men's gifts, or accept only one's and punish the other's. But accepting Tribute, be it gold, monuments, or fine Art, magnifies the strength of your miracles. My personal advice--accept both gifts, then hang them both for insolence and disloyalty! Imagine the fun!"

>Which gifts should we accept, and what should we do with the nobles?

>>36063196
>accept both, warn them both

File: Notsurewhattoname.jpg (337 KB, 771x984)

337 KB JPG

>>36063196
"Who of can verify Nazar's loyalty? Who can verify Cyneric's betrayal?"
If both are verified, then bless Nazar and accept his gift, then take Cyneric's gift, and forgive him.

>>36063196
accept both, punch both
2 punches to the nuts for Cyneric for treachery under duress
1 punch to the face to Nazar for being RUDE!

>>36063422
I support this

>>36063366
Same anon, be more severe with the disloyal one, but make sure we're willing to look past it if he behaves himself from now on, the other one is commended for loyalty but told to watch how he speaks before us, regardless of intentions or being right. This is an event to signify the new times when we lead the people, therefor they get a second chance.
Or something, I'm not exactly a wordsmith.
>>36063422
I like your pictre.

Attempt to confirm that these things happened. Accept them both regardless, but if an actual betrayal happened, then scorn Cyneric. Maybe place a curse upon his name or something?

>>36063422
>"Who of can verify Nazar's loyalty? Who can verify Cyneric's betrayal?"

You extend your mind outward to search for Truth. First you listen among the idle chatter of the city. Over the next few minutes, you pick up more than enough whispered rumors of Cyneric's betrayal, but no talk of Nazar. You return to the men, reading their faces, probing their minds. You can enter their heads easily enough, but you can't seem to understand their thoughts. They are like gibberish scrawled on the wall. You resolve to ask Kalat about this later if you have the chance.

>>36063510
Accept both. Give both men a goblet of wine.

Cyneric's wine is poison.

>>36063556
This. But not fatal poison. Just kind of... weeping wine and paint from his pores and feeling real shitty, with occasional fits of wild creative fervor.

***Difficult to combine all your choices here. Hopefully this works for you***

"Enough! I will accept both of your gifts." Cyneric's face breaks its still mask, showing visible relief.

"However, I will tolerate neither impudence," eyes lingering on Nazar, "nor disloyalty," frowning at Cyneric. "There is a punishment for both!"

Lightning fast, you lash out with a jet of superheated wine. Nazar is splashed on the face, and he drops to the ground gripping his burned cheek. Cyneric is hit in the groin, falling down screaming. "Nazar, you will bear a scar for your rudeness as a reminder to behave properly. As for you, Cyneric, I hope you have an heir, because your days of fathering children are over."

"A truly delightful display my lord!" Kalat dances with glee. Give me a moment, and I will bring in the merchants and get someone to take the gifts to your Treasury.

>>36063510
>>36063196
"Nazar, your conduct for my return has been pleasing, as such, I will accept your gift in compensation for your insolence and indulgence in rumor."

"Cyneric from house Sophron, regardless of the whispers of your family's betrayal, today you have proved you have recognized me. However, words of praise and gifts given out of fear rather than devotion are unacceptable."

"Tell me Cyneric, are you ready to earn your God's favor?"

>>36063510
>like gibberish scrawled on walls
Is that our wine or are they being mindcontrolled?
>>36063556
nah

>>36063661
Seconding this!

>>36063642
>scarring bro
>castrating other guy
wtf

>>36063690
This is what happens when your high priest is charmingly mad

>"Tell me Cyneric, are you ready to earn your God's favor?"

He breathes through sobs. "A-anything, my Lord."

"Go and tell all of what has transpired here. Let us hope that the next time I call upon you, you are ready to prove your newfound loyalty."

Two priests drag him out of the room as you turn towards Nazar. He kneels before you.

"Oh Lord, I have deeply sinned today. I did not wish to dishonor You so."

"Rise Nazar, and let me see your cheek." You reach out and reform the wound into a cluster of grapes. "You said what you did out of love. I won't forget that. But neither do I allow impudence to go unpunished. Go and sin no more."

>>36063769
did he just make his scar go away? wow, that was useless. If we went through with it then I don't see why we turned it back.

File: Confused Samurai.jpg (107 KB, 992x720)

107 KB JPG

>>36063769
Well that really wasn't what I had planned for it, but okay I guess.

>>36063801

Like I said, I wasn't getting a very clear consensus. The scar is still there, and the pain is still there, but the scar is shaped like a grape cluster, so it shouldn't be shameful like Cyneric's injuries. I was initially going off of the posts that said to punch them both, but later ones seemed to go easier on Nazar. Always happy to hear feedback if you disagree.

>>36063746
>This is what happens when your high priest is charmingly mad

Also, this.

Kalat brings the merchants next, but the merchants arrayed before you seem more like soldiers than scribes. Each is arrayed in their finest armor.

A tall, muscular man stands in the center of the room. He kneels at your feet. "My lord, I am Chief Merchant Joshua, and these are my sons. I do not have the wealth of the nobles to offer you, and I don't have the skill of a craftsman. But I can offer you my flesh and blood in your name." He leaves briefly, returning with a young woman. "This is my firstborn daughter. With her, I could have secured the marriage of a wealthy noble and elevated my status. But I offer her instead to You as Sacrifice, so great is my love for You."

Kalat pulls you aside again. "Sacrifice strengthens you directly my Lord. Tribute might be stolen or lost, but the souls of living Sacrifices become part of you, both filling you with Belief and strengthening your Miracles. I say drown the girl in the wine fountain! If you don't feel like doing that, then I guess I could find a place for her as a priest."

>Drown the girl in the fountain, and drink deep from the resulting wine.
>"Come forth, girl. What is your name? What do you think of the priesthood?"
>"Joshua, you honor me with your Sacrifice, but I will not take it from you. Keep your daughter, and give your loyalty and love instead."

>>36063892
>"Come forth, girl. What is your name?
Lets see who she is first. How old she is, who she is, what talents she has.

>>36063892
>"Joshua, you honor me with your Sacrifice, but I will not take it from you. Keep your daughter, and give your loyalty and love instead."
I don't want to be a mean guy.

>>36063892
>"Joshua, you honor me with your Sacrifice, but I will not take it from you. Keep your daughter, and give your loyalty and love instead."

>>36063932
>>36063892
This

>>36063932
Second

>>36063892
Get her pregnant

>>36063892
>"Joshua, you honor me with your Sacrifice, but I will not take it from you. Keep your daughter, and give your loyalty and love instead."

While you consider your options, you talk to Joshua. "Why are you and your men so well-armored?"

"We have to be, Lord. Our journeys take us outside the city, sometimes through dark paths. We face bandits and worse out there."

"Worse?"

"The desert demons, my Lord. They are scared of the great gods, but in the deep desert they are as numerous as flies."

"Are you skilled fighters, then?"

"The best, my Lord. No harm shall come to your wine in our travels."

Kalat whispers in. "It's true, oh Drunk One. The merchants in this room probably have more experience than all of Your Temple Guard put together!"

You turn your gaze back to the daughter. "What is your name, young one?"

Her head remains pointed firmly down, but she answers "Arda, my Lord." She seems to regain some composure, and looks up to you. "I was raised with my brothers in the caravan. I don't know if I would be a good priest. I can't read or write."

"And what can you do?"

She perks up a little and even cracks a smile. "Wield a bow, I guess. I'm a better shot than any of my brothers."

Kalat whispers again. "There's room in the Temple Guard if you wish, Lord."

You resolve to ask Kalat later just how weak your Temple Guard really is.

>Drown the girl in the fountain, and drink deep from the resulting wine.
>"There is yet time to learn to read and write, girl. We will make a priest of you yet."
>"Very well then. How does Archery Instructor with the Temple Guard sound?"
>"Joshua, you honor me with your Sacrifice, but I will not take it from you. Keep your daughter, and give your loyalty and love instead."

>>36064259

>"Very well then. How does Archery Instructor with the Temple Guard sound?"

>>36064259
>"Joshua, you honor me with your Sacrifice, but I will not take it from you. Keep your daughter, and give your loyalty and love instead."
But before this, take Arda into our arms, and feel what she and her father are thinking, as well as those of the court. I want to see how they feel.

>>36064317
But before this, take Arda into our arms, and feel what she and her father are thinking, as well as those of the court. I want to see how they feel.

You step forward to embrace Arda. It's easy to step back from your body and peer into her head. It's mostly fear, but a little bit of hope sitting at the bottom. You could read all of her thoughts, if you wanted, but most are simple in nature. Will she survive? Wasn't she supposed to be betrothed to a noble husband? Why is her father doing this?

You refocus on each of the merchants. You can feel a general nervousness on them, especially the father, but also a sense of deep awe. However, when you go deeper to read their thoughts, you find them gibberish as well. Strange.

Kalat's head is mostly empty, with thoughts seemingly springing forth from nothing, only to explode and sink back down again. But the specific content? Again unreadable.

>>36064412
Smile at her.
"Arda, your life is your own."
"Joshua, truly you have sired a girl worthy of respect, please tell me when she is to be married, I would like to personally bless the marriage."

>"Very well then. How does Archery Instructor with the Temple Guard sound?"

>>36064412
Oh hell yeah, I'm blacking this>>36064489

>>36064489
This.

>>36064489
I'll go with this.

>Smile at her.
>"Arda, your life is your own."
>"Joshua, truly you have sired a girl worthy of respect, please tell me when she is to be married, I would like to personally bless the marriage."

Arda smiles, then bursts into happy tears. The two sons closest to Joshua clap their father on the back. Joshua's face first shows relief, but then a little fear. "Thank you, my Lord, for your generosity and kindness. I trust my gift did not offend you?"

"Not at all, Joshua. It told me everything I needed to know about you. Come back later, and let's talk trade. I want to know *everything* about our finances."

"For now, though, let's bring in the craftsmen and be done with these meetings."

You can hear the chatter of the craftsmen before they even arrive in the room. It's fast-paced, all business, stern yet familiar. They talk of wine varieties and grape cultivars, the proper foot to grape squishing ration (FTGSR, apparently), and the best way to pour a glass. Kalat herds them into the room while two priests wheel in carts loaded with wine casks and freshly-picked grapes.

The next two hours are spent talking shop with each of the artisans. They are all astounded by how much you know about winemaking and grape cultivation. You learned a few things, too. As far as anyone can tell, the city of Virus is the only one which produces wine, a favored trade good throughout the land. The merchants pick up the goods, transport them by caravan to the other cities, and split the resulting profits with the craftsmen. The profit split is, of course, always a point of contention between the two groups. The grape vines are harvested first thing every fall, and trimmed every winter. During the spring and summer, your craftsmen focus on refining the wine. The best of each batch is kept in the city as reserve for the Temple.

You can't help but notice the lack of other craftsmen besides the vinters. "Is anyone here *not* a winemaker?"

A couple come forward. You apparently also have one glassblower's workshop and one smithy. Most other crafts are just made as needed by the common people or traded for by the caravans. Your chief imports are metalwork from Kondar and paper from Gurpal.

They drone on and one explaining the specifics of each item, and you start spacing out. Your attention drifts over the minds of each one. To your surprise, the minds of the vinters are easy to read, but the smith's and glassblower's minds are still gibberish.

You take a moment for questions, then dismiss the crafters.

>Any questions about the city's industry for now?

1/2

>>36064631
OP? Still there?

>>36064984
>To your surprise, the minds of the vinters are easy to read, but the smith's and glassblower's minds are still gibberish.
Is that due to belief I wonder?

Not particularly.

>>36064984
What is our strongest export aside from wine?

>>36064988
I'm not the fastest writer, and I've hit the end of my prepared material. I'm still aiming for updates every 20 mins max, though.

>>36065048
>What is our strongest export aside from wine?
"Finely decorated handcrafts and pottery. The nobles of other towns use them as status symbols, and they are great for paying tolls and taxes to the other gods."


After the craftsmen leave, you ask Kalat about reading minds.

"It has always been said that the Gods could read minds, Lord, but I've never heard of such a limitation before. Perhaps it is a side-effect of your resurrection? Ooh, ooh, what does my mind look like?"

"Like an exploding firework, silly one. Tell me, though. Why can't I read your mind?"

"You can't read my mind? But you could read my father's mind--no, his father's mind--wait, no, well, one of my ancestor's minds! I don't know my Lord. I'm so sorry."

>questions for Kalat right now?

"I hope are satisfied with your people for now, my Lord. There are many areas that require your attention."

>Inspect your Temple Guard
>Inspect your priesthood.
>Inspect the city outside the Temple.
>Inspect the lands surrounding your City.
>Familiarize yourself with your neighboring gods.
>Meet with someone in particular?
>Write in

>>36065214
>>Familiarize yourself with your neighboring gods.
Then
>Inspect the city outside the Temple.
Then
>Inspect the lands surrounding your City.

>>36065214
>Familiarize yourself with your neighboring gods.
Get along friend time.

>>36065214

>Inspect your priesthood.

>>36065214
>Inspect the lands surrounding your City.
great thread so far OP!

File: map.jpg (252 KB, 1024x748)

252 KB JPG

>Familiarize yourself with your neighboring gods.

Kalat ushers you into a side room of the Temple, where a large map is fixed against the wall.

"Behold, one of our greatest paintings, Lord! This one is said to be the best painting of the land ever made!"

"Do you see us in the center, there? We're well situated along the Great River Odon, which of course comes from Lake Odon, which of course comes from the City of Odon, which of course is named after the god Odon!"

"Thank you, Kalat; I think I get it.

"If you haven't guessed already, Lord, Odon is the Neverending Font and God of Waterways." North of Her are Klabat, the Golden Vein and God of Trade and Kondar, the Unquenchable Flame and God of Smithing. We have good trade relations with all three gods, although Klabat trades with us the most.

To the north is Reah, the Calm Harbor and God of Sailing. She's nice! She often brings in rare trade goods from other lands.

East is Gurpal, the Hungry Swamp and God of Writing. He's... a bit of a dick. Just because everyone needs his paper, he thinks we suddenly have to be nice to him. Eschar, the Tallest Tree and God of the Forest lives somewhere south of Gurpal. But she is a recluse, and won't talk to anyone. No one even really knows where her city is hidden! Entering her forest is sure death to any traveller.

West is Naxos, the Howling Wind and God of the Dead. He buys some of our wine, but mostly he wants to be left alone. Very strange dude.

And southwest is Anhur, the Howling Demon and God of War. You best watch out for that one. He was banished to the edge of the Wastelands long ago, and hates all the other gods.

If you want to talk to anyone, we can summon their shade at the Altar. It's safe!

>Any gods you want to talk to, yet?

>questions on the map or diplomacy?

>Inspect your Temple Guard
>Inspect your priesthood.
>Inspect the city outside the Temple.
>Inspect the lands surrounding your City.
>Meet with someone in particular?
>Write in

>>36065601
Get drunk, fuck bitches.

>>36065601
Huh. Wow. That's a good map, I like it.
>Any gods you want to talk to, yet?
Reah & Klabat & Odon

>>36065601
Talk to Kondar, Reah, and Klabat.

>>36065601
Reah, Klabat, Odon. Reah so we might be able to establish trade relations and export our wine through maritime trade. Odon because that's where our waters coming from and Klabat because trade

>Let's start with Reah, then.

You and Kalat return to the central chamber, where Kalat and a few assistant priests carefully paint the Altar with crushed grapes. Kalat whispers a few words, and Reah manifests herself on the Altar.

She appears simultaneously as a mirror-smooth stretch of water and as a pale lady with blue eyes, blue hair, and a shimmering silk robe. She greets you with a tinkling laugh. "Ha ha ha, Virus! So you live after all. We were getting worried that your city would be without its god forever."

"We?"

"Oh, just some of the other gods." She winks. "Purely out of concern for the protection of your people, you understand. Say, have you heard anything from Eschar? She's been quiet for a long time now."

"I've heard the same. But I couldn't say more. What's the news with you?"

"You know you're one of my *favorites* Virus? I have a favor to ask of you. I'm building a new fleet of ships, you see. If you're willing to turn a blind eye when they sail up the river past you, I'm might just find some very nice gifts for you from foreign lands. What do you say?"

Kalat whispers to you: "Do it do it do it! Odon might be pissed, since the river is technically hers, but who gives a SHIT! Oh, sorry Lord, got carried away there."

>Accept. You will allow her ships passage by your city, in exchange for gifts from foreign traders.
>The deal is good, but Reah will make a killing in trade with her new fleet. You should get a cut from each trade mission, as a toll, in addition to the gifts.
>No deal. The waters belong to Odon. You don't want to risk pissing her off.

>>36066007
"May I ask what you intend to use these ships for? I doubt you would ask my permission if it was mere trade."

>>36066038

"Trade, mostly. Mostly." She giggles and winks again.

>>36066082
"Then why ask me? Odon owns the Rivers, not myself after all."

>>36066007
>The deal is good, but Reah will make a killing in trade with her new fleet. You should get a cut from each trade mission, as a toll, in addition to the gifts.

>>36066108

"It would be awful hard marching up my ships past you without you noticing. I just want to make sure there's no... misunderstanding if you see them. I just want to be assured of your discretion."

>>36066007

>The deal is good, but Reah will make a killing in trade with her new fleet. You should get a cut from each trade mission, as a toll, in lieu of gifts.

Asking for gifts as well may be pushing it a bit.

>>36066108
>>36066038

Could we agree with this trade, then talk it out with Odon later and backstab one or the other in the late future, OR give Odon a small cut of it.

>Accept. You will allow her ships passage by your city, in exchange for gifts from foreign traders.

File: free shrugs.jpg (84 KB, 600x857)

84 KB JPG

>>36066169
>>36066007
Bring Odon's shrine up and summon her. See how she feels about this deal

>>36066206

Totally, if you want to. We'll talk to Odon next, and you can vote to mention it.

Right now I have one vote to take gifts, one to take tolls and gifts, and one to take only tolls. Hrm.

>>36066244
Final destination that shit. Or just get erryone to vote on your post. Personally, Take gifts.

>>36066007
>>No deal. The waters belong to Odon. You don't want to risk pissing her off.
Let's not be a dick. Even if she's nice, the water's Odon's.

>>36066007
>Accept. You will allow her ships passage by your city, in exchange for gifts from foreign traders.
As long as when Odon gets pissed, she tries to keep us out of it

>Accept. "I look forward to your gifts, Reah. We might have to work out some of the specific payment details later, though."

She sighs and crosses her arms. "Fine, we'll talk more later. I'll be sure to give you a heads up when they're passing through so you don't get any surprises."


Reah disappears. Kalat whispers some more words, and Odon manifests herself.

She appears only as a single rippling globe of water, with no alternate human vision.

"Virus. It is good to see you again, after so long. I take it that I should expect more wine this year?"

"I certainly hope so. Any news with you? Talked to Reah lately?"

"That bitch? She and I have had words, yes. But we don't talk that much. Have you heard from Eschar lately?"

"No, not a thing."

"Gurpal won't shut up about how he thinks Eschar is dead and that we should totally, quote 'Tag team that bitch.'"

"Fuckin Gurpal, right? Anyway, anything you need right now?"

"Nah, I'm good. Kondar's trying to screw me on some new armor, but we'll see who's talking when he can't ship his goods to Klabat this winter. Listen--harvests are always good around here. If you ever need any extra food, I'm sure we can work out a deal."

"Thanks, Odon."

>"Oh, by the way, Reah told me..."
>"I'll talk to you later." Klabat's next.

>>36066447
>"Oh, by the way, Reah told me..."

Odon's a lot more important to be friends with then Reah.

>>36066447
>>"I'll talk to you later." Klabat's next.

Do we get a chance of talking to Odon after talking to Klabat?

>>36066447
>"I'll talk to you later." Klabat's next.

>>36066529

Totally not arguing yes or no, but curious--why do you think so?

>>36066541

If you want to, sure.

>>36066447
>>"I'll talk to you later." Klabat's next.
Even if Odon's more important, which she is, it's bad form to gossip. It leads to broken trust with everyone.

>>36066557
"Can we talk to Odon later" anon here, Odon basically owns the water that comes into our city, it'd be a trivial matter for her to cut the water off or to poison it. Reah on the other hand, only controls the trade that we can do maritime wise.

If reah is pissed, we miss the chance on extra trade. If Odon is pissed on the other hand, we might get poisoned or worse.

>>36066557
We depend on Odon's water, don't we? I don't know what she could do if she wanted to spite us but it would probably be bad.

Unless Reah's gifts help power our miracles like tributes. Idunno.

>>36066671
Who needs water? we have WINE!

>>36066671
Reah's foreign gifts would be potent Tribute, which magnifies your miracles. But others are correct about Odon's control over the river.


Odon disperses, and Klabat takes her place. He shifts between a tall mountain glittering with gold and a cheerful fat man holding a pickaxe in one hand and a lantern in the other.

"Ho, friend! I'm glad to see my best customer again!"

"Good to see you, too, you old fatass."

"Oh, you wound me! Listen, do you mind if we talk something... personal?"

"Shoot."

"Kondar's starting to scare me. He's talking all big. First he was telling me that he's cutting off all armor sales, and now he's starting to talk about how he's going to use it all. I've talked with Odon, and she's aware, but you know her. Wouldn't commit to an answer."

"Wow, that's rough. Do you think his threats are genuine?"

"Maybe. I don't know. Do you think you could help me out at all?"

>Offer a defensive pact with Klabat against Kondar.
>Offer some of your finest Temple Guard as instructors for Klabat's men.
>Offer to sell him some of your City's armor at twice the standard price.
>Offer him extra shipments of wine as a token gift.
>"Listen, that's rough. I'll keep an eye on him, but I'm not sure I can help you out right now either."

>>36066836
>"Listen, that's rough. I'll keep an eye on him, but I'm not sure I can help you out right now either."

>>36066836
>Offer a defensive pact with Klabat against Kondar.
Not sticking with each other is what got us conquered in the first place. Besides, his trade is valuable.

>>36066836
>>Offer a defensive pact with Klabat against Kondar.
No names. We don't want Kondar to find out that we made a treaty specifically against him. Say something like "We will help each other against common enemies."

>>36066836
>>"Listen, that's rough. I'll keep an eye on him, but I'm not sure I can help you out right now either."

Get Odon on the line

>Offer a defensive pact with Klabat against Kondar.

But with Odon in it. If she agrees, get Reah to join in. Bam, Reah can now drive her boats up the creek and all 4 of us will have protection.

>>36066930
This doesn't seem like a bad plan

>>36066836
Changing my vote from
>>36066928
to
>>36066930
Still avoid names.

***Oh god it's happening again.***

>"Let me talk with Odon and see what the three of us can work out. Defense against common enemies, maybe."

"You're a lifesaver, Virus. Listen, I don't have much right now for you, but since it looks like Kondar might be holding all his armor, it might get expensive, quick. You've got first dibs on the last of my shipments if you want it."

You summon Odon again and explain the situation. Klabat's seeking mutual protection against common enemies.

"I'll think about it. Klabat's not a bad guy, and your word in his support means something. But I won't commit right now."

"Come on Odon! You've fucking Anhur to the west. Don't tell me you wouldn't want help with that."

"I'm pretty sure we all agreed before to band together against Anhur. I don't need to sign another treaty for that."

"What if there were other threats?"

"Other threats?"

>"Like Reah, maybe."
>"Like Kondar, maybe."
>"Like Reah or Kondar, maybe."
>"You never know. Could be others out there who aren't so friendly."

>>36067084
>"Like Kondar, maybe."

>>36067084
>"Like Kondar, maybe."
it is what the situation is about, and we are also trying to use this treaty so Odon doesn't shove our balls up our throat for making a deal with Reah behind his back

>>36067084
>>"Like Kondar, maybe."

>>36067084
>>"Like Kondar, maybe."
I don't think there could be any negative repercussions for hating on the guy. No one likes him aside from himself and his worshippers.

>"Like Kondar, maybe."

"Kondar?"

"Klabat tells me he's hoarding his armor. No one else is getting any."

"I have no problems with Kondar. But I don't have any love for him, either. I'll tell you what. You agree to ally with me against Reah at the appointed time, and I will ally with you and Klabat against Kondar, should he attack."

>Deal. "Actually, about that Reah..."
>Deal. "I'll *totally* help you against Reah...
>No deal.
>No deal. "Actually, about that Reah..."

>>36067339
>Writein
Say that we cannot ally against Reah. Explain that we are only allying against possibly dangerous forces, not nuisances.

>>36067339
sunuvabitch!

>>36067339
>Deal. "Actually, about that Reah..."
If we can't settle what's between them, I'm cool with Reah as an enemy.

>>36067408
seconded

>>36067339
Hard decisions inbound. At this rate, it'd be better for us to ally with Odon rather than Reah.

>Deal. "I'll *totally* help you against Reah...
Does this mean we backstab Odon, cause if we do, I'm voting for

>Deal. "Actually, about that Reah..."

Instead.

>>36067339
Supporting >>36067408

>>36067408
Backing

File: 2fCasQj.jpg (430 KB, 1150x2048)

430 KB JPG

>>36067410

>Say that we cannot ally against Reah. Explain that we are only allying against possibly dangerous forces, not nuisances.

"Well, now you know how I feel about Kondar. If you change your mind, or have something better to offer, I'm listening."

Odon dissipates.

>Head to Reah, ask for help with Klabat against Kondar
>Inform Klabat of the bad news, then do something else.

Something else:

>questions on the map or diplomacy?

>Inspect your Temple Guard
>Inspect your priesthood.
>Inspect the city outside the Temple.
>Inspect the lands surrounding your City.
>Meet with someone in particular?
>Write in

>>36067565
>>Head to Reah, ask for help with Klabat against Kondar

>>36067565
>>Head to Reah, ask for help with Klabat against Kondar

>>36067565
>>Head to Reah, ask for help with Klabat against Kondar

>>36067593
>>36067611

So at this rate, the pact is essentially us, Klabat and Reah/Odon. If we get Reah in a pact with us, we can totally let Reah send her boats up the creek and retaliate when Odon decides to fuck shit up.

>>36067565
>Head to Reah, ask for help with Klabat against Kondar
Ask what Odon's beef with her is. Ideally we handle this without making any new enemies.

>>36067690
this too

*****Also, thoughts on when to end? I'm totally up for going 3 more hours, if I have voters. If not, I'm planning on running 0030 UTC tomorrow for several more hours. I'll post on the twitter account at the top with deets.*****


>Head to Reah, ask for help with Klabat against Kondar.

Frustrated, you motion to Kalat to begin the ritual again for Reah.

"Oh my, quite busy today, aren't we?"

"I have a new offer for you, Reah. Klabat has come to me, concerned about Kondar. He's apparently hoarding all of his armor production and threatening war."

"That buffoon. All holding his armor will do is make the rest of us build more smithies. Hey, good business for me at least. I can get goods overseas."

"Would you be willing to join me in defense of Klabat should Kondar attack?"

"I tell you what. You get Klabat to let my boats up the river, just like with you, and I'll be there to help."

"Easily done. By the way, I've been talking with Odon. Do you know what her problem is?"

"It's all a matter of interpretation, really. She's god of the waterways, and I'm god of sailing. I'm going *over* the water. She really *technically* shouldn't be complaining so much."

"I doubt Odon sees it that way."

"If Odon would just let me move my ships, I wouldn't have any problem with her at all. But as it is, she's costing me a lot of trade."

"Isn't trade Klabat's department?"

"Oh, shut up. You know what I mean. You're not the only one who drinks wine, after all, and Naxos sure as hell isn't the only one who dies."

"Good doing business with you, too."

Kalat sighs as he prepares the Altar again.

>>36067781
Was that an invitation to do something or are you still writing?

>>36067781
3 more hours is fine with me, I'll stick around.

>>36067565
>Inform Klabat Odon is being a pompous ass as always, and then mention that there are several desert merchants. We can send them to his city, he can watch for them, and then inform them of military positions that are open, since desert merchants are badasses.

"Klabat, Reah wants to use your river."

"My river? It's Odon's river."

"She just wants to move her ships past your city without causing any stir. In exchange, she'll support us against Kondar."

"Virus, you know that there's only two cities upriver from my city, and I doubt Reah really has a beef against Kondar."

"I know, but that's the deal. Will you take it?"

"Yeah, fine. Listen, thanks so much Virus. If you need anything, anything at all--I owe you."

"I'll remember."

What's next?

>questions on the map or diplomacy?

>Inspect your Temple Guard
>Inspect your priesthood.
>Inspect the city outside the Temple.
>Inspect the lands surrounding your City.
>Meet with someone in particular?
>Write in

>>36067861

You talking about Joshua and sons? They're your merchants, and you could certainly send them wherever, but they are needed to run the caravans. Do you want to divert more caravans to Klabat, away from other routes? I'm just not sure what you want.

>>36067865
>Inspect your Temple Guard

>>36067865
>>Inspect your Temple Guard

>>36067865
Now that that is settled (somewhat)
>Inspect your Temple Guard
let's meet these our guards whose archery is (apparently) worse than a little girl

>>36067865
>>Inspect your Temple Guard
>>Inspect your priesthood.

Also, can we get a confirmation on our diplomacy. The way I see it, we're now in a defensive pact with Reah and Klabat, right?

>>36067909
I'm suggesting diverting more caravans to Klabat. What he does with the merchant guards is his business.

Side note, we might wanna chat with Naxor, have a drink, ask why Kondar is being such a shit. Or at least ask about that woodland goddess.

You turn to Kalat, who's scraping off dried grapes from your Altar. "Well, now that that unpleasantness is over, why don't we actually inspect this army I've been bargaining with?"

Kalat bows, then scurries away. Wait, is he skipping?

You follow him to the courtyard. Several soldiers are napping in the shade of the southern wall. Well, you *think* they're soldiers. They have swords anyway. Well, short swords, really. Daggers?

Upon hearing Kalat cackling to himself, the guards wake up and drag themselves into (loose) formation on the practice ground. There are maybe 100, 200 total.

You whisper to Kalat in a voice so drunk that no one else could possibly understand: "These? These are my soldiers?"

"Your ELITE soldiers, my Lord! I trained them myself! We do jumping jacks every day!"

"Are these... are these all my men?"

"Of course not, Lord. Every able bodied male will join the army in time of need."

"And how many of those?"

"Maybe 5,000?"

"That's more like it. Do--"

"But we only have arms and armor for another 1000, soooo..."

"So what will they use?"

"THEIR BARE HANDS! AND NAKED BODIES! AHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Kalat cackles in delight, and the soldiers in front of you uneasily chuckle.


>suggestions to improve the guard?

>questions on the map or diplomacy?

Other actions:

>Inspect your priesthood.
>Inspect the city outside the Temple.
>Inspect the lands surrounding your City.
>Meet with Nazar to talk local politics.
>Meet with Joshua to discuss news outside the City.
>Meet with someone in particular?
>Write in

>>36068080
>Inspect the lands surrounding your City.

>>36068080
>suggestions to improve the guard?
We'll ask Kalat or Rhea to send someone over who can turn them into a respectable force later.

>Inspect the lands surrounding your City.

>>36068080

Get the smithy to pump out some spears for the militia, train the guard in phalanx tactics. Get them to start training.

>Inspect the lands surrounding your City.

>>36068080
>>suggestions to improve the guard?
Make them clean every inch of the city together. It will increase discipline and (maybe) teamwork, while only slightly decreasing morale.

>>36068080
First, get ourselves a freakin' drink
Second, consider the disadvantages of leaving the charmingly insane to run the place while we are gone
Third, find a martial arts master, clearly we must make our elite guard practitioners of drunken boxing http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080179/?ref_=nm_flmg_act_82

You run by a few ideas for improvement with Kalat. "I can certainly send word to the smithy to start making spears, my Lord. The nobles waiting on their handcrafts can go FUCK THEMSELVES!" Your suggestion to have the guard clean the city is met with more cackling, so you assume it's a good idea.

You resolve to talk to Klabat and Reah later about shared training among your forces.

In the meanwhile, you ask for a report about the lands outside your city. One of the older priests returns with old recordkeeping scrolls. He idly thumbs through them, peppering you with facts.

"Most of our vinters keep their grapevines immediately outside of the city walls. They can live inside in safety and leave every day to care for them. But most of our grain and livestock come from more distant villages surrounding the city. We are fortunate to be located near the Odon river, and our land is rich and fertile. Our harvests are usually pretty good."

"5 villages along the river pay us tribute. Nearhome, Two Forks, Narrow Bend, Delta, and Bridgetown. Bridgetown, as you might guess, is located on the eastern side of the nearby bridge over the Odon. While we don't *technically* own the bridge, it being a joint ownership among Reah, Naxos, and yourself, our command over Bridgetown allows us strategic control over crossings and tolls there. None of our villages have an Altar inside, so visiting them yourself would be impossible without an Altar Delegation."

"Klabat lies about 10 days journey to the south by foot, and about half of that by river. Reah lies about 7 days north of here by foot, again half by river. Naxos is about 20 days journey by foot away, and is a very difficult journey to make through the desert.

1/2

Needed votes:

>Order the smithy to begin spear production at the cost of metal handcrafts? Will slightly upset merchants and nobles.

>Order guard to clean city as team building excercise? Will lower morale in the short term, building it long term.


Also vote on other actions:

>Inspect your priesthood.
>Inspect the city outside the Temple.
>Meet with Nazar to talk local politics.
>Meet with Joshua to discuss news outside the City.
>Meet with someone in particular?
>Write in

Third vote:

>Replace Kalat as head of the Temple Guard? We can choose a replacement later.

>>36068363
Yes to both.

>Inspect your priesthood.

>>36068363
Yes to all.

Also
>Inspect your priesthood.

>>36068363

Both Yes

>>Inspect your priesthood.

>>36068363
Yes to cleaning and replacing Kalat as head of temple guard. Kalat can still be high priest. Hold off on the metal craft
>Inspect priesthood

>>36068363
Yes to both

>Inspect your priesthood.

>>36068377
Yes to this too.

>All army votes passed. Will start implementing them.
>Inspect your priesthood.

As your last act of the day, Kalat leads you through a quick tour of the Temple and its priests.

"Anyway, like I was saying, priests are the fruit of the city. You can train em, work em, make them study, learn new things. There's priest scribes, priest musicians, priest singers, priest sculptors. There's the teaching priests and learning priests, coconut priests, pepper priests, priest soup, priest stew..."

You let Kalat babble as you inspect your priests yourself. There are perhaps 100 of them, all told. All of them can read and write. Most have developed some skill related to your domain. Some artists and musicians, others masters of the grape, and others master sommeliers. You feel through their minds. All of them are devoted to you. Many are a little scared of you. You can't read any of their thoughts directly.

You stop to talk to the oldest priest, the one with the scrolls. He's the head librarian, and he's in charge of all the records of the past. You also meet the head recruiter, who inspects the children of your city for their potential. Those who show exceptional artistic talent are recruited to the priesthood. For this reason, your priestly population is probably double that of other cities, who just recruit additional scribes as needed.

>Any historical question for the recordkeeper?

>Any special instruction to the recruiter?

Also vote on other actions:

>Inspect the city outside the Temple.
>Meet with Nazar to talk local politics.
>Meet with Joshua to discuss news outside the City.
>Meet with someone in particular?
>Write in

>>36068629
Talk with Joshua

>>36068629
>>Meet with Joshua to discuss news outside the City.

>>36068629
Do they all take the same classes? Like, can they specialize and take advanced painting or sculpting?

>>36068705
>Do they all take the same classes? Like, can they specialize and take advanced painting or sculpting?

Each specializes in one craft, although every priest might be expected to lead the people in song.

>>36068629
Question for record keeper, how has our city fared under the enlightened rule of the Kalats? *brace self for bad news*

>>36068737

"Well, the first Kalat was the high priest at the time of the Day of Sorrow, when our God was... set back for a while." He looks fearfully up at you, then continues. "That was Kalat I, who all agreed went insane. His son succeeded him, taking the name Kalat II. After many years in hiding from the occupiers, he, too, went insane. Then came Kalat III and Kalat IV. Kalat III was tortured to death one Harvest Festival during the Occupation. So I'm not entirely sure if he had the chance to go insane. Kalat IV was certainly disturbed by his father's death, becoming completely unbalanced at the time of the Disappearance of the Occupiers. Our Kalat, whom we all love, Kalat V, only recently went insane, due to, um, losses in the family."

His eyes dart to Kalat, then back to you. "It does seem to be a common trait, though. As for governance, it's hard to say. We were governed by the occupiers for so long that it's hard to place any blame upon the old high priests."

>>36068856
fair enough, may I ask about the recent losses for our charming high priest?

>Meet with Joshua

You take your leave of Kalat, sliiiiding across the City to meet with Joshua at his estate.

"My Lord! You could have called; I would have come!"

"Nonsense! It's easier for me to walk over than it is for you." You pull out two goblets of wine and take a seat next to him. "Come, I need to hear everything happening outside the City."

"Joshua chuckles. Everything happening might take a very long time. But I'll go over the good parts."

"Our caravans have visited Klabat, Reah, and Naxos this year. We have yet to visit Odon or Kondar, but we might not go. Word is that Kondar is withholding all armor and refusing merchants access to his city. He hasn't made any demands, though, so I'm unsure why he's holding out. Odon usually only has food to trade, and we're quite fine this year."

"We may yet visit Gurpal. Your recent arrival has caused the priests to double their demand for paper this year. Chronicling your actions, keeping more careful records, and whatnot. Eschar never wants to trade, so Gurpal's usually a short trip."

"I'll probably be done with my regular routes early this year. I wanted to ask you, Lord, is there anywhere you'd like me to head afterwards?"

"There's a few things I was thinking you might do. First, is there any way to discover what has happened to Eschar? Second, I was wondering more about those desert demons you spoke of. Up for another trip to Naxos? Finally, do you ever visit Anhur at all?

Joshua spends long in thought before he answers again. "I could do any one of those things, my Lord, though all of those suggestions are very dangerous. There is no guarantee me or my sons would survive such an endeavor. But for you, we would go."

>One more trip to investigate Eschar
>One more trip to investigate Desert Demons
>One more trip to visit Anhur
>Stick with your regular routes for now.

>>36069002

"You'd have to ask him yourself. It's... not for me to say."

You turn to Kalat, who's still babbling by your side. "Kalat, have you lost anyone dear recently?"

"Me? Oh no, not recently Lord. No one recently. My wife died many years ago, but no one recent.

The old priest looks confused for a moment, but the expression quickly fades. "If there is nothing else, my Lord, I will take my leave."

In addition to the above vote, you may choose:

>Press Kalat for more info
>Leave things be for now

>>36069034
Regular

>>36069034
Desert Demons.

>>36069034
>>Stick with your regular routes for now.
>Press Kalat for more info
Be very, very gentle.

>>36069034
Regular routes, once we've rebuilt our army we can send them out on dangerous expeditions.
>Press Kalat for more info

>>36069034
>Stick with your regular routes for now.

>>36069088
>Press Kalat for more info

>>36069034
>>Stick with your regular routes for now.

So we need a competent fighter to train our army and his caravan guards seem pretty good. Ask if he has any recommendations.

>>36069034
>Stick with your regular routes for now.
>>36069088
>Press Kalat for info

>>36069188
>Ask if he has any recommendations.
>Stick with your regular routes for now.

For war? Well, my sons and I will certainly join You, but we are few in number despite our might. Frankly, I wouldn't advise war in our army's condition. We need more armor for starters. We only have about 1000 sets of bronze, and not one set of mithril. Without any mithril armor or weaponry, none of our mortal warriors could stand up to a god. If I were you, I would make acquiring arms, especially mithril weaponry, a top priority.

>Press Kalat for more info

You gently twist around Kalat's head, pushing just a little further. You still can't read his thoughts, but he seems to be deliberately emptying his mind right now. Whatever it is, he doesn't want to think about it.

"Kalat, what is bothering you? Tell me, let me help."

Kalat refuses to look at you. "Oh my God, my God. Please, I will do anything for You, but not this. Leave poor Kalat's head be."
At this time, we're starting to run out of what I'd consider "introductory options." This is a pretty freeform game overall, and as a god, there's lots to do. There's still 6 other gods you haven't talked to, your city to explore, and an army to reform. In addition, you should start considering how you might gain additional power for yourself. Reah and Odon might have it out soon enough, and none know what Kondar has in store. Is there a place for conquest? Or should you focus on diplomacy? Or turtle up and work on the development of your people?

Things to consider and discuss as introductory choices run slim.

>Inspect the city outside the Temple.
>Meet with Nazar to talk local politics.
>Meet with Kalat and the old historian to discuss your godhood.
>Meet with someone in particular?
>Write in

>>36069360
>>Meet with Kalat and the old historian to discuss your godhood.

>>36069360
>Meet with Kalat and the old historian to discuss your godhood.

Was it mentioned how much money we have relative to the other cities?

>>36069360
Since we are the god of wine, art, and (by extension of wine) parties, may I suggest making our city-state into the Las Vegas of the realm as a goal?
to meet this goal, we should probably start with
>Meet with Nazar to talk local politics.

>>36069478
I agree with this. We need to know how we are doing compared to the other cities.

>>36069360
>>Meet with Kalat and the old historian to discuss your godhood.
Know thyself and know thy enemy, as they say.

>>36069478

>Meet with Kalat and the old historian to discuss your godhood.

As you ponder overnight, he old historian returns with Kalat in tow the next morning. "My Lord, I am not sure how much Kalat has explained about your powers. I've never met another god before, myself, but the archives describe Your nature well."

"You are the First Vine and God of Art. The part about the First Vine probably came first. Wine went well with parties, and artists like parties, as you well know. You became the God of Art because people throughout the land *agreed* that you were the best at Art, the same way Klabat is the best at Trade. But Art is not permanently tied to you. If people no longer believe you're the god of Art, you won't be. Odon used to be the god of Farming, until everyone learned her secret. Klabat talks a big game, but he's not the only one who trades. And there are other smiths in the world besides Kondar. Your claim over your dominion is not perfect, and if you're not careful, you will lose it."

"A god maintains their power through the belief of the people. Which people? The people of their city. The more people and the stronger their belief, the greater the strength. This belief is magnified by the great monuments and Tributes brought to the Temple. A rich god with few worshippers packs a heavier punch than you'd expect."

"You are widely regarded as the second richest behind Klabat, thanks to your very in-demand trade good. Your city's skill at art leads to a very well-stocked Treasury of many artifacts."

"But gods are bound to their Altars. Moving away from your Altar will cause you to lose your connection to your people. You have an Altar in your Temple. Your army also carries a second Altar with them into the field."

1/2

"War between gods is rare, but it has happened, even before the invaders. A god must march his army carrying his Altar, to the gates of another City. There, while the armies engage in combat, the gods maneuver themselves to strike a killing blow on the other. Defeat can come either from the loss of one's army and its belief, or by a deadly strike from another god. The invaders brought a third way--mithril. A sword of mithril might slay a god, and a chain of mithril might bind him. A soldier clad in all mithril is immune to your miracles, and thus a mighty asset in the field. Mithril is supremely rare ever since the invaders left. We have none at all, though we might be able to trade for a few sets at great cost. Kondar is known to have access to a small but steady supply of mithril."

"Once a god is conquered, their city becomes free to take. When the invaders came, they occupied and enslaved us, but standard practice before was to enslave the women and children and sacrifice the men. Barbaric, to be sure, but this did ensure rapid assimilation into the city. This was before the time of dedicated craftsmen, however, and I can't imagine the economic cost of such an action today."

Kalat interjects. "That's why, if you're going to go to war, you have to hit them hard with EVERYTHING! Losing a battle on the offence is almost certain doom!"

"Kalat is right, my Lord. But if multiple gods were to go to war against just one, then a defeat on offence wouldn't be nearly so disastrous."

>Inspect the city outside the Temple.
>Meet with Nazar to talk local politics.
>Meet with Kalat and the old historian to discuss your godhood.
>Meet with someone in particular?
>Write in

>Start considering your focus for next session.

>>36069869
>>Meet with Nazar to talk local politics.

>>36069869
Would it be possible to start research on a balista and get mithril-tipped arrows to go with it?

>>36069869
>Meet with Nazar to talk local politics.

I guess next session we should focus on placating Odon and talking to the other gods so we have an idea of what's going on in the world and the relationships at play. Between ourselves and Klabat, we should be able to get mithril without too much hassle, so that's okay to put on a lower priority.

>>36069968
>They brought fearsome new weapons: wind-up bows that could pierce straight through a copper breastplate, war engines that could batter down the strongest walls, and swords and armor of gleaming Mithril never before seen.

"The invaders brought such weapons before, though we don't know how to make them. With time and dedicated effort, we could learn such a thing."

>>36069869
>Meet with Nazar to talk local politics.
>>36070018
also, I agree with this

>Meet with Nazar

You summon Nazar back to the temple for a friendlier talk than last time. His scar looks to be healing nicely. He bows low before you, remaining on his knees as he speaks.

"My Lord, You have summoned me?"

"Rise, Nazar. You're not in trouble this time, I promise. I want to talk politics--the good gossip that I know you have."

A wry smile spreads over his face. "You've come to the right man then, Lord."

"There's always lots of minor gossip going on, but that's all bullsh--small stuff. The main story is the same as it's always been. The commoners hate the craftsmen. The craftsmen hate the merchants. And everybody hates the nobles."

"Why does everyone hate the nobles?"

"They just don't see the good we do for this city. Who provides all of the money for the merchant caravans? Who provides the patronage for new artworks? Who purchases all of the crafts? Who tells the commoners where to work? The nobles make a lot of decisions and take a lot of risk, and nobody respects that."

"I see. And the merchants?"

"They're fucked both ways. They're paying interest to us for our loans, and they're splitting their profits with the craftsmen. I don't envy them. The best merchants can strike it big, though, and wind up as nobles. Merchants as a whole are pretty smart and can read and write, although they aren't nearly refined as the nobles. They tend to be the best fighters of all because of all that practice outside the City."

"Craftsmen, meanwhile, resent the merchants for taking too much of a cut selling *their* items. But craftsmen, really, are just taking a cut off the raw materials the commoners produced in the first place if you ask me. So who's laughing now?"

"Commoners have it the shitti--worst overall. They do all the work and get paid the least. They also fill out the army but lack training and equipment."

"Then I guess we have the slaves. Although there aren't too many of those in the City right now. No wars."

1/2

"What current problems do you see in the city?"

"Not much right now. Your people love you. You're the god of wine and parties, after all. But your people are particularly fickle. They aren't *scared* of you like some of the other gods. You saw that the other day at the festival. They might love you right now, but they don't have much tolerance for fear or hardship."

"I hear word that the smithy might get repurposed for spears only. That's going to piss off some of the nobles with orders in, and that's definitely going to piss off the merchants who use those crafts to pay tolls. But they can deal."

>Questions for Nazar?

>Finally, inspect the city outside the Temple.

Your City is home to about 20,000 people. At its center lies your Temple perched atop a small hill. Most of the nobles are clustered around the temple, while most of the merchants are housed near the gate. Commoners can be found all over, while craftsmen have their own dedicated districts and streets. A large public square in front of the steps leading to your temple serves as the forum and marketplace. Several wells are located around the city.

You can't help but notice that many of the streets are too narrow for carts to pass, and certain portions of the city look very run down. The walls surrounding you have definitely seen better days. In some places, they have crumbled down to a height of 6 feet. Where maintained, they are 15 feet tall, wide enough for two men to comfortably walk abreast atop, and interspaced with watchtowers every 100 feet or so. One main gate leads out of the city, with several side gates.


****And we'll probably end here for the night. I'm *very* interested in your feedback, questions, etc. I'm going to plan on starting tomorrow at 0030 UTC and run for several hours. After that, I'll probably run at least once more this week. Thank you so much for a wonderful thread with some really fucking great responses so far..***

>Last questions, feedback go here.

>>36070457
Good thread. Set up looks promising. Thanks for running.

>>36070457
So, where are the mines set up? Where does most of our metal come in from? Who supplies our raw materials besides Grupal's dickishness?

>>36070457
The setting is very interesting, I look forward to seeing more of it. Also, I freakin' love our charmingly insane high priest. I can not wait for more of him.

>>36070457
I can't think of much else to ask him.

Great thread OP, I didn't expect it to be so good. I really like how fast you write these dense updates. Have you done anything similar to this before?

>>36070639
>So, where are the mines set up? Where does most of our metal come in from? Who supplies our raw materials besides Grupal's dickishness?

"We get a small amount of raw materials from the surrounding villages, including some ore, but we have no major mines ourselves. Most basic materials are supplied and consumed by the commoners of the city. More elaborate materials come from Reah, Klabat, and Kondar. Gurpal alone holds the reeds for paper-making. Many have tried to steal some, but they all drown in his swamp. Odon provides an enormous surplus of grain and livestock. Reah provides extra fish. Naxos and Anhur provide little in terms of trade.


>>36070694
Thank you! No, I really haven't. I've run a few play by posts before, but those all happen over days, not minutes. I'm really only able to put out this much content because I've spent literally months thinking about this setting and playing out scenarios in my mind when daydreaming.

I really didn't expect you guys to choose Virus. I thought for sure you'd go hardcore Anhur for war or Reah for exploring. All this diplomatic gameplay is going to be fun to write.

>>36070734
Which god is your favourite?

>>36070763
>Which god is your favourite?

Tie between Naxos and Eschar.

You'll notice that the general theme of a God is Natural Element + Civilized Element, with two exceptions. Naxos as God of the Dead and Eschar as God of the Forest. Both are intended to be loners. Eschar specifically wants to be a loner, going out of her way to hide. Naxos, however, is made a loner due to his sphere and remote location. Nobody can really relate to the god of Death. But he doesn't mind.

>>36070791
Where do gods come from? I don't really get this part.
Does someone notice a domain isn't occupied, they make up a god, and people go along with it until it's true?

Also, do fantasy animals exist?

>>36070791
does Naxos have any followers?

>>36070893

Gods develop when people start paying respect to a natural phenomenon. Virus was originally a grapevine. Not even a special grapevine. Just the first one. That was enough for people to get really psyched. Reah started out as a calm harbor. Fishermen dropped offerings into said harbor long enough for the harbor to develop a personality. Anhur is a slight exception, starting out as a hungry demon and eating his way to godhood. Gods pick up their secondary aspects through their actions. Gurpal, for example, was not considered a very important god at all until his followers discovered how to read and write. Now he's hot shit.

Fantasy animals may exist? If they do, they're rare. Demons certainly exist, but they're out there in the desert and you don't really know what the fuck they're about. But the setting itself is closer to Bronze Age + real in the flesh gods than it is to fantasy.


>>36070903
His city is one of the smaller ones, but yes he does have (living) followers. A great number of them are hermits living among the cliffs surrounding the city. They commune with their god and listen to the wails of the dead. Not much in the way of industry or production beyond the basic necessities goes on there.

>>36070457
Is Anhur powerful despite his assumed lack of wealth and followers because of sacrifices? Who would be the lowest on the pecking order?

>>36071026
All the gods are designed with weaknesses and strengths they can take advantage of. Klabat and Virus are both dependent on trade, with little in the way of natural resources, but they make a ton of money with it. Kondar makes some money from trade, but is kind of boxed in between some powerful gods. It's okay though, since he's so good at smithing. Anhur is a fucking BEAST at war. He is, literally, the god of War. As to why, few can say, since so few people interact with him.

Eschar might be described as the weakest just because she's a loner and not interested in trade. But nobody *really* knows much about her, not even where her city is located. So she's certainly not "easiest to kill."

>>36071178
Is there any advantage to killing a god vs binding them? Would we gain any power by killing them or just permanently eliminating them?

>>36071347
I hadn't got into this much in the main game, but there are advantages to both.

Killing a god will give you an instant dose of power. Killing a god equal in power to yourself will give you a moment of absolute power during which you can work a seriously Major Miracle. After that's all over, the work of assimilating his city and scratching out what wealth and belief from his remaining followers that you can begins.

Binding a god doesn't give you that instant rush of power. But, it does give you a fully functional second city that stays relatively docile. Binding Kondar, for example, would keep his forges working and send his smiths back to work that same day, not months or years down the road. It would also give you a pretty devoted servant, though you'd have to always watch your back.