>>358374
As it turns out I am a complete failure at checking thread links. The previous thread was >>339321 not what is in OP

>>356211

We need to somehow dodge the next attack, but your ability to move has been restricted and he could simply move faster to compensate. You’ll have to throw him off somehow and prepare. You were already kneeling so you simply place your hands on the seafloor emanating some black mana from both hands. You look behind you to Aki and nod at her. You wish you could tell her your plan, but hopefully, she will get the message.

Now time to mess with him. “You know your son was pathetic.” You chuckle. “I remember it clearly, “please don’t kill me, please don’t kill me” after he lost our battle.” Malygos is slowing. You try and make another quick look back to Aki, but you continue nonetheless. “We were going to begin the torture process, but he broke down and told us all about your hideout here before the first finger was broken. What a terrible excuse for a son.” “You will hold your tongue!” He is getting incredibly angry alarmingly fast. Time for the finisher. “The best part about your son though is that after he spilled everything he became so guilty over what might happen to you because of it.” You pause for dramatic effect. “The fool decided to kill himself to spare him from the guilt and shame, how hilarious, hahaha,” Malygos became a blur, voraciously fast, but at the same time reckless. He wasn’t aiming either just trying to hit you until he found the right route to kill.

After a couple close sweeps, he is barrelling toward you straight on. Now is the time for you to strike. You brace for impact and hold. Malygos dives at you and is only inches from your face. However in his bloodlust, he forgot about your death powers. Skeletons from directly underneath him stabbed him in the stomach. “What?” he coughs. He may have stopped but he was moving with enough force to pull through the stopping power of the skeletons and knock into you. Not nearly with enough force to cause significant damage but a few scrapes and you both fall into the bed of the lake.

You and Malygos stand almost in sync. He is clearly injured, but he intends to finish this fight one way or another. He charges again, but without his usual accelerating. At this point, your right arm and leg are shot, and although they will regenerate in time you couldn’t use for a while.

Time for finish this
Roll a d20+3
>Charge with everything you have
>Defend and counter
>Write in

Rolled 17 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>358401
Defend and Counter.

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>>358444

Just have to get him good one more time. You once again adopt your defensive stance and ready yourself. Without his magic, he isn’t coming in with nearly as much force but he was still coming with enough speed to put his saber through you. You think back to your fight with the scorpion queen. Why don’t we let him? You tap your left leg with a death spell and then put your left arm out to sacrifice it. Malygos is confused but undeterred. “Die welp!” he stabs through your hand but you close your impaled hand around his blade to stop it from progressing. “What?!” He didn’t have another second. You push off the bed with what strength you had left and kicked him in his side. “Ahhhhhh!” there was now a hole in his side, eating away at the rest of his body. He falls to the ground clutching his side and you do the same with your still impaled hand. Fortunately, your regenerative abilities kept you awake so far and you seem to have prevailed against the general.

“General!” His men call out as they rush to help him up. Your scout forces do the same however to block them from interfering with you. Yuki runs over and begins to heal your hand and asks. “Are we going to save him too?”

>Yes
>No
>Write in

>>358489
Give him a choice. Surrender and be captured or die. His men can leave though

>>358508

You look over to Malygos. “You know that wound will slowly eat away at you until you die. They way I see it Malygos, you have two choices. Accept capture or die. You men are free to leave whichever you choose.” The general laughs. “Hahaha, coming from you surrender and capture equate to death. If it is all the same to you I’ll choose to die like my son.” He raises his hand. I only ask one thing, not only my men but all the people in this village is to be free to go. I know that the grand general will likely use this as a staging ground for his assault on the capital. Knowing him he will raid and destroy everything here. Please just let them leave.”

“I already promised the safety of your men, the village itself is not much of a stretch.” “Good, you are by far much kinder than that Grand General. With that, I ask you to finish the job young one, as much of a fair sport I am to sit here and slowly die. As a general I hate inefficiency.

>Mercy kill general
>Let him rot
>Write in

Did we actually kill his son?

>>358597
Give him one last chance to surrender. And Apologize for lying about his son's death. Tell him his son still lives and that we shall ensure him and his son's safety if he surrenders.

>>358615
We didn't kill his son. We just lied. I lie that we should have revealed earlier. Go my poor memory.

>>358623
Also if he doesn't surrender this time we should quickly end it.

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>>358623

“General I will give you one last chance to surrender.” “Why would I even reconsider that.” You bow your head. “I would like to apologize general we did not kill your son, I merely said that to enrage you during our duel. Again I am deeply sorry to have deceived you of something so serious. If you surrender we can ensure both you and your son’s safety.” Malygos s shouts “Are you insult me as I die?! Is this all some sick joke?! Wanting to torment an old man after your victory?!” He is violently searching for something, and he calls over one of his men. “I had thought you a young one of honor, but your blatant sadism is inexcusable. I will not be killed by one such as you.” “General please wait! I don’t understand what is going on.” “MY SON IS DEAD, I saw his severed head myself and yet you continue to mock me.” “I will withdraw to exact my vengeance upon you and your damned Gran-” He couldn’t say another word as one of your scout troops stabbed him through his heart. “?!” What is happening?

“General!!” The crowd called out. The scout speaks, “We have accomplished our mission. You of this village are free to withdraw if you choose not to our forces will be here in the next few days and you all shall suffer the same fate." “You bastards, we shall one day gut you heartless beasts." The guard and villagers begin a frantic retreat. You accomplished your mission, but what exactly is happening.

>Write in

>>358704
Demand that the scouts explain what is happening. What did the General mean by he "saw his severed head." If they don't want to explain then we shall have to head back and ask someone who can tell us.

>>358727
Reminder that the general did give you a direct messaging device to him, much like Auriel did

>>358741
Oh yeah. Direct message the general asking what did Malygos mean when he said that he saw the severed head of his son.

>>358745

We need to call the Grand General. “General, we have completed our mission” “Excellent we will be there in just a day and a half.” “General… when we confronted Malygos he said he saw his son’s severed head. Why was that?” “Because I sent it to him.” “You did what?!” “Calm down, after the boy told us everything he knew he lost his value. He was also still a general of the enemy and his death would not only impact their military but also their strongest general. With his son dead, and my sending of his head for added effect Malygos must have flown into a rage upon your confrontation. Making it easier to catch him off guard. What I did only helped you.” “And you didn’t tell me?” “That information was not vital to your mission, regardless if I told you he would have still been off guard. The important fact is that you have killed him, and that is what matters here. Good work and I shall see you in a day and a half when I and the rest of our forces arrive.

A day and a half huh? Just you, your gang and 10 soldiers.

>Write in

>>358854
Inform Mari of what the Grand General said. Ask her if she knew about this?

>>358894

“Mari, the Grand General just told me he killed Kalos and sent his head to Malygos. Did you know about hits?” “What?! Not at all! I admire the generals sense of dramatics but I believe this is several steps too far. “ Interesting.

>>358916
Alright since Mari is currently Innocent we should start our march/swim back to the capital. We have a queen to talk to.

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>>358922

We need answers and the best place to start is the head of the state. “Guys we are going back to the Queen.” The 10 soldiers around you ask. “Are you sure, the Grand General was hoping to have you with him for the glorious assault on the capital. You were the one to both capture Kalos and “kill” Malygos. You’re practically a war hero.” Seems that some of the other men are in agreement.

“Guys, what do you think?” “This all seems fishy to me,” Yuki perplexes. “Well all gotta do is confront the head honcho right? Then we should just make them answer questions.” Victoria punches her open palm in front of her. “We are heroes of the mermaid people” Adrian starts. “We can get our answers once things have calmed down after the war.” Anna agrees, “we are already here and we would miss out on the assault if we left. We may be able to learn something here as well.” Mari jumps in. “I want to see the final battle of the war! You said coming with you would make me a better ruler in the future right. Well, then I want to see this long war finish with my own eyes.” Aki just nods, “I am not sure, but something just doesn’t sit well with me, whatever you decision though I am sure it will be the correct one.”

Hmmm.

>Stay for the Assault
>Head back to the mermaid capital

>>358957
Head back to the Mermaid Capital. While ending a war is good and all for making Mari a better ruler. Teaching her to be a kind ruler is even better.
Though if her mother is in fact kind and not involved with the killing of POWs then we will teach Mari another important lesson.
Keeping watch on your subordinates so they don't go around killing Prisoners and sowing fear.

>>358986
Also we should travel in such a way so we don't run into the Grand General.

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>>358986
>>359016

“Don’t worry Mari,” you reassure her “Trust me, going back to your mom will teach you a valuable lesson about being a proper ruler, regardless of what happens in this war. Plus we managed to payback Malygos for what he did to you.” “Yeah… “ She resigns. The soldiers explain that they need to stay at the village but wish you a safe journey back regardless. Victoria looks a little disappointed we are skipping out on a fight, but that is beside the point. “So you are telling me that after we walked her all day and stopped for 10 minutes we are immediately going back?! You people are crazy!” Adrian complains. “Can’t we at least take some sort of break? “We’ll camp on our way back don’t worry,” you say. “Hopefully soon,” he rubs his feet before getting ready to do.

You journey for what remained of the day which wasn’t too much. You did not want to run in with the Grand General so you followed the same path you took to get here. Along the way, you see masses of people shuffling about and towards the shark folk capital. Probably all the refugees from the towns the mermaid army is passing through. You avoided them as well as you didn’t want anything to deter you from your destination. Soon the day came to an end and it was time to camp out.

There are many things you need to get sorted out before tomorrow, but for now, your group enjoys the time they can finally rest their feet. “FINALLY, MY FEET ARE FREEEEEE!” Adrian shouts. What an odd guy.

What to do in camp tonight? Pick two

>Social links (specifically 1 group member/able adherent) Each person counts as one choice
>Strategize tomorrow (how)
>Sleep, you earned it plus you are still wounded from that battle.
>Write in

Last post for the night. Will be back tomorrow at the usual time 7pm PST

>>359046
Strategize for tomorrow. We are war heroes and Mari is with us, so getting to the queen should be easy. If people try to stop us Mari is the Princess and can pull rank.
When we get to the queen we make her talk and tell us the Truth about this war and about who ordered the execution of Malygos's son. If she doesn't want to tell us the Truth we fake holding Mari hostage. She will be much more willing to talk if we threaten to kill her only daughter. Inform Mari about the plan before hand of course and get her input. Because we are basically accusing her Mother of killing Prisoners and potentially start a war and a whole lot of other cruel stuff.
After The Queen has told us the Truth then we will decide what to do from there.

The other thing we should do is start to teach Adrian how to actually fight. He is basically useless right now. And learning how to fight would be the first step towards making it so he can survive.

I forgot that today I have DnD starting at 7pm so I will not be running tonight. Sorry for the late notice.

>>361844
Cast Magic Missile into the Darkness.

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>>359085

You decide to strategize for what is to come tomorrow. Your plan is extensive, but mainly involve asking the Queen how much she knows about the war situation and various measures to counter her potential counters. Including taking Mari hostage. You inform her of that one, though, “I understand, I will be the best hostess ever!” “We’ll see.” You can’t help but feel her dramaticism is going to get involved. “Once the Queen answers all of our questions we will decide what to do from there. I don’t want to be in the vague dark about this any longer.” You affirm.

Next on the list of things to take care of. “Adrian” “Yes?” he is rubbing his feet from soreness. “We need you to be able to fight.” “Are you saying I don’t know how to fight?” “Yes.” “Well, you don’t have to be so blunt about it.” He pouts. “It’s alright Adrian it will only take a short time, especially with the teacher you’ll have.” “Teacher?” Adrian asks. Victoria smiles. “Oh no.” Adrian is scared for a bit but then energetically asks. “Will I get to be a magic man?!” Only Auriel could really answer that question. You pull out the device he gave you and give him a call. “Yes, young one?” Auriel responses. “A boy here wishes to know if he has the potential to be wizard such as yourself.” “Indeed? Well, unfortunately, I cannot tell with 100% certainty without being there personally and if he was I would not be able to properly instruct him through this device. If he has the gift, then I am sure it will manifest itself while on your travels.” “Okay, thanks, Auriel”. You hang up to Adrian eagerly staring at you. “Magic man?” he asks. “Maybe” “YES!” Joy turned to sadness though as he had to spend the next couple hours with Victoria. “Rule number one” She punches him in the face. “Rule number two” Kicks him in the stomach. “Rule number three” Throws him on the ground.” Several beatings later. “Please tell her to calm down” Adrian requests “It won’t work” “*sigh* I know…” Adrian seems to be well on his way to learning some basic combat techniques.

The morning came quickly and you once again began your swim to the mermaid capital, but most importantly the Queen. Your journey was a safe one and as you get closer to capital you notice fewer and fewer mermaids about. When at the capital you explain to the guard that you wish to speak to the queen, however. “She is quite busy at the moment, she asked not to be disturbed.” “Even by me, Mari jumps in” “Princess Marina, where on earth have you been, we have all ben worried sick your mother has been crying for the past two days!” “Does that mean we can go in?” you probe. “I am afraid not, the Queen is tending to a matter of dire importance, and to tear her away from it now even for this could prove disastrous."

Hmmm

>Write in

>>365889
Tell the Guard that the Princess has had a stressful two days and wants to see her mother. Would you deny the princess's request and continue to leave the Queen in the dark about her daughters health?

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>>365962

“Guardsmen I just wanted you to know that the Princess has had quite a stressful two days and she deeply wishes to see her mother again.Would you deny her this wish and leave the Queen thinking her daughter dead?” “Errr” “Mr, Guardsmen…” Mari speaks weakly crying for added effect. “Eeehhh, fine.” He caves and lets you in. The Queen is still by her throne, but she appears to be circling it. “Well we will have to re-write laws, and account for added production.” She shakes her head. “No, first we need to stop the aggressive locals from…” She takes notice of you. “Oh, so you are back from... “ She sees Mari. She darts over and hugs her daughter. “Mari you idiot, I told you not to leave your room, because of this escalating war, but you went anyway! Even if you were with ones suited to protect you it is far too dangerous.” The queen is crying softly. “Please, never do this again.” She hugs harder. “Okay, mom,” Mari says weakly. She seems perplexed as to why her mother isn’t steaming with anger, but instead is merely happy to see her daughter again.”

After a minute the queen collects herself and presents herself to you and your group. “Heroes, thank you for returning my daughter and defeating Malygos as well. The Grand General informs me that he will take the shark folk capital city within the day. Finally, this long war will come to an end.” she breathes a sigh of relief. “You surprise me, however, as I would expect your group to be there for the final assault. What brings you back here beside the safety of my daughter?”
>Write in

>>366061
We come with questions. Mainly in regard to the history of this war and the execution of POWs. A specific POW to. One son of Malygos.

>>366091

“Queen Umina, we come today with questions about this war. Recent events have called our involvement in this affair into question and we wish to understand all we can about this 25-year debacle.” The Queen is surprised. “You wish to know about a war that will soon be over? And what events are you referring to? “The most recent event was when we confronted Malygos, we were able to defeat him, but the soldiers escorting us killed him when we wanted to bring him in for questioning. Also, he informed us that he was sent the severed head of his son Kalos. A general which we captured in a skirmish two days ago. The Grand General confirm his son’s death.” The Queen slowly sits down on her throne. “My, that was quite a gruesome story. The death of the general's son I can see as concerning, but first we should discuss the history of this war so that it will all make sense.

At the time 25 years ago I was a younger child, barely older than Mari is. I was kept up in my royal chambers following the example of my father when the Grand General entered my hall in a hurry and gave me a report. “My Queen we have been attacked by the Shark folk of the kingdom next door.” “Impossible!” I shouted, “They have always been a temperate people what could have made them do this.” “Queen Umina, I believe it is the scarcity of natural resources. We are the largest kingdom with the highest population in this grand lake. They are smaller and looking to scrounge our lands away so they may live off it.” “But that is what our trade agreements have been for! Why would they dare do this.” “Your majesty, I do not know, my previous statement was merely a theory as we are too busy responding as fast as we can to this threat. I apologize as it was too assumptious of me.” The Grand General bowed. “That is quite alright, you are merely trying to also find a method to this madness.” I grabbed my staff and raised it into the air. “As such let it be known that the Kingdom of Mermaids is at war with the Shark folk.” “Of course your majesty I will see to it that all know, and I will win this war for you.” He bowed once again and then left.

>>366148

“Since then the war has ebbed and flowed for these long years. Slowly we have been winning by the shark folk slavers have been cunning and stole various other species of the lake and force them to fight against us. It is a war of attrition that we were winning, but if we allowed it to continue the lake ecology would forever be scared. As such we sought time and time again to push, but we were thwarted by Malygos at almost every turn. The Grand General was quite impressed with the man but eventually grew tired of his interferences.

Largely that brings us to here. There were one or two larger battles, but politically and practically everything has stayed the same since then.

As for the death of Kalos, that I can not help you with. The Grand General has complete charge of the military and does not wish to bother me with my already important civil administration with military administration. He is quite the reliable and dedicated man.”

>>366149
Can we roll some sort of insight check on this?

>>366173
sure d20+1

Rolled 7 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>366175

>>366178
You can't really tell if she is lying or not. she at least appears genuine.

>Write in

btw

>>366191
Well we have nothing to convict her with. And she seems genuine so going drastic is bad. So we must assume the Queen is perfectly innocent for now.
We do have one final question though. If the Grand General has complete control of the Military who has control of him. Does the Queen rule over him or does he have the same position as the Queen.
Because if he is her subordinate. Is she really fine with her subordinates executing POWs?

>>366205

“The Grand General is below me of course. He just does not wish to bother me with military matters and as he does such a good job I allow him to go about as he deems fit. He has yet to drastically fail at his duties.” “Are you truly okay with him executing prisoners of war?” She looks solemn for a moment “I admit that the thought is grotesque and some may say cruel, but the general merely wishes to end this conflict as quickly as possible. If this conflict had not been raging for over twenty years I could not imagine the general doing such a thing.”

>Write in

>>366217
I understand ending the War. But is this really the example you want to set for your daughter. That you should just execute prisoners and let your subordinates run wild. How will your people and the shark people see you if you just kill unarmed non-combatants. Further more do you even know what the Grand General plans to do to the Shark Capital. To their King. Because his track record involves execution and displaying heads for people to see.

>>366261
"Are you insulting my ability to rule?"

>>366308
Sorry. I apologize if we have overstepped our boundaries. Only offering some food for though. With that concluded we only ask for some place to rest for the night and hope that you and Mari will do well after this war concludes.

>>366319

“No, Queen Umina, I was merely providing a thought, and I apologize for overstepping my bounds as I am only worried for your daughter and kingdom in this large war.” You bow respectfully. “We now only ask that we be allowed a place to rest for the evening, and no matter what happens we wish you and your daughter well after this war.

“A sensible request, for taking care of my daughter and your efforts during the war you will be allowed once again to rest here for the evening. Tomorrow will be an-” “Queen Umina! Queen Umina!” A guard is running down the hall. “The Grand General has reported that he has taken the Shark Capitol and is on standby.” “Excellent, patch him to me” “The guard hands him the same device the general gave you. “Queen Umina I am pleased to report- “AAAHHHHHHH” -that the capital has fallen and we have the dastardly “Ohhhhh noooo!” Shark king in custody. He will be executed on your official command.” His report is filled with screams and shouting occurring the background. You can't see him, but you can only assume that a great deal of destruction and desecration was taking place.

The queen begins “You may execute-” She stops and looks at you and Mari. “Queen Umina?” the general asks. “Bring... Bring him before me here.” “Your majesty for what purpose? This war is over and all we need to do is dispatch the enemy leader.” “And as your Queen, that is ultimately up to me to decide! Or was there some other reason you asked my permission to execute him?” “No, your majesty.” “Good, now bring him here at once.” “Yes, your majesty.” The shooting occurred throughout the entire conversation, but no one was paying any attention to it.

The Queen turns to you all. You may stay here until the war is officially finished. You have earned the right to observe its end. “Thank you your majesty.” You turn to leave to you sleeping quarters with many things left on your plate. However, the main course won’t come until the General arrives with the Shark king.
What do we do until then? (pick three)

>Social links
>Talk with Queen (about what?)
>Talk with Mari (about what?)
>Explore town
>Write in

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>>366352
forgot pic

>>366352
Talk to Mari about her opinions of all the things that are happening.
Then Explore the town.

>>366372
I have to head to go now, will right this tomorrow when I come back at 7pm PST as usual

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>>366372

“Mari, how do you feel about this situation?” “Hmmm, it feels like something grand like a play is taking place. Yet I am left cast, not as the lead! It all makes me so frustrated.” She ruffles her hair. “The grand general has always been a kind and fair man, and mother would have absolutely no reason to cause anything malicious…wait.” She pauses. “What if mother is secretly dating the king of the shark folk!” She turns red and her breathing has increased. “Unable to love due to the war but also unable to kill. Star-crossed lovers at their finest! Perhaps the night of their reunion will be their last as they commit suicide together! Betrayed by a cruel world where politics overtake love!” She is completely gone, giggling and swimming around. “Worry not dear mother, for I shall be there to witness your love and convey its meaning to the coming generations!”

Mari didn’t seem to understand the situation completely. But neither did you. “Guess we can look around town for a bit.” The capital was fairly quiet, although there were some instances of celebration as the long war had finally ended. Yuki keeps looking for cute clothes, but none of the shops sell pants. Skirts. But no pants. She tries to get you to wear some, but you weren’t feeling it. You wanted pants. “Boo, you’re no fun!” Adrian instead got made the but of a joke as Yuki and Anna teamed up on him and got him to try on clothes, including skirts. “Whyyy do I have to do this when she, I repeat, SHE doesn’t?!” “Because she doesn’t” Anna shot back. “But that doesn’t answer my- aaahhhhh” He gets buried under piles of clothes Yuki brought for him to try on. Victoria sighs at the whole mess.

Akitani walks swims over to you. “You know, being in this underwater paradise really is something, do you perhaps want to make the most of our time here.” “Well, we are trying to solve this whole war thing, I think that is making the most of our time.” “That isn’t what I meant.” She fidgets and blushes. “Do you maybe wanna go somewhere? Just the two of us? Is she asking you out on a date?

>Sure (If so, where? Places available, restaurant, memorial, park, walk downtown. Ask if you want to go somewhere else and I will tell you if it is down here.)
>No we are doing something too important here

>>368902
Sure. We should go to the Park. They are lovely and should be lovelier underwater.

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>>368920

“Sure Aki,” “Really?!” “Yes, really.” She seems quite excited. You have nothing better to do with your time while you wait for the general to get here. “Let’s go to a nice park. “Guys! Akitani and I are gonna search for clues about what’s going on in another part of town. Enjoy yourselves. “WAIT” Adrian yells, but to no effect. “Tehe let's go.” Akitani hugs your arm and you walk off.

The park was a lot like you would expect a normal park except this was more of a water… park. You cringe to yourself, after realizing you made a dad joke at the age of 12. “This is lovely” Akitani mentions “I can feel the calm waters here around me, the aroma is quite enjoyable too. I only wish… I could see it.” “You can Aki, you just have to take off your mask.” “She lightly smacks your arm, you know I can’t risk what happened when we first met happening again.” “Yeah but you will never know if you can control yourself if you don’t try right? And for now we are largely alone here. Seeing as most are gone celebrating or off to war.” “I… suppose.” She reaches to take off her mask. Her piercing yellow eyes see all in her view. “The colors are quite lovely are they not?” you ask. “That they are, she makes her way over to you and takes in the breathtaking site. The light of the sun shining through the water made every color of the reefs and coral shine brighter than ever. The multicolored fish swim amongst them. “It’s funny...” Akitani says, “...that despite my heightened senses and the ability to see, I am forbidden from doing so…” I can always tell where you are next to me but now…” She places her claws softly against your face, the feathers surrounding them, ensured they did not cut your skin. “Now I can see you for everything you are. All I ever hear are descriptors but to my vision, they are colorless blobs of mass radiating heat. I want to stay like this. I wish I never had to put that mask on again.” “Aki you can,” this time you raise your hand to her face. “I can never see the full you with that mask, and now that your eyes are as beautiful as I imagined them, I don’t want to see you put that mask on either. But that is all more the reason we should work on your problem.” You begin to sit down where you were. “We will start with Adrian later okay?” “Hehe, knowing him I’m sure he will complain that we are using him.” She lays down beside you. “He always complains” you sigh. “For now, though... “ She says and rests her head on your shoulder. “Let's enjoy this.” You too stayed there a while, before meeting back up with your group.

“Find anything?” Anna asks. No, unfortunately, we’ll just have to wait for the general it seems. “Figured as much.” She responds.

You have time for one more action before the general arrives

>Social links
>Talk with Queen
>Write in

>>369037
Social Links. We should talk to Victoria.

>>369064
Have anything in mind as discussion topic? If not it's fine but I am wondering.

>>369072
How she is doing. What she thinks of the stuff happening. Her relationship with Anna. And how she feels about the rest of the group. Along with some sort of continuation of the previous conversation with her and Anna. That sort of thing.

>>369083
Any of these Topics work. Your choice.

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>>369100
>>369083

It’s been awhile, maybe you should check in with Victoria. “Hey Victoria, you doing anything right now?” She just looks around. “Is that a question?” More like a sarcastic observation. “Well it's been a bit, how do you feel about everything going on?” “Waste of time. Sitting here waiting for the one with answers to arrive instead of just going to get him.” she scoffs. “But if we had all of the big players in this together we could find out more.” “We already talked to one of them, just go beat up one of the other two at fault.” “But we don’t even know that yet.” “They’ll tell you if you beat them up.” She’s helpful. “Look I promise we’ll get to beat up whoever is responsible, but for now, we wait.” “Works for me” She spits crosses her arms.

“By the way, how are you and Anna?” you inquire, “The pipsqueak, same as ever, too damn proud to admit anything wrong. She's too busy playing with the others and “standing above them” to care about this situation.” “But aren’t you doing the exact same thing in a different way?” She is taken back, “No way!” “But aren’t you just waiting to beat up the guy instead of finding out what is happening? “But we would find out is happening that way!” “What if you beat up everyone but the one responsible on accident. What does that accomplish.” “*cchhk* fine. Let the girl play her games.” She disregards and walks off. Man, if only those two could actually talk to each other.

Soon you hear mass fanfare occurring. You guess that the general has returned. “People are cheering in the streets as the general and his entourage walk by holding the chains to the Shark Folk king in his hands. As if pulling him by a leash and displaying him as a trophy on parade. Honestly, it's a little much, but after 25 years people would get worked up enough to do these kind of things. “Booo to the demon king” “Why aren’t you dead yet you murderer!” “Gives us peace of mind by just dying already.” the crowd shouts at the shark folk king. “He is actually a handsome young man it seems. Maybe a little older than Mari but has all the regality of Queen Umina. He does nothing to challenge the hateful comments and silently walks his path of shame. The general notices this and pulls abruptly on the chains will all his might, the king falls to the ground. He doesn’t stop though and drags the king across the ground until he managed to get up. However even covered in mud and sand he continued silently.

They are marching up to the royal palace where the enlightening conversation may occur.

How do we want to to go about this?

>Try to hide and listen to the conversation
>Walk in and be clearly pleasant
>Write in

>>369139
Walk in. We are war heroes and Friends to the Princess. Also it would be a good idea to see this directly.

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>>369162

“You return to the palace and wait with the Queen for the grand general and his prize to arrive. The general seems perplexed why you are here when he first arrives. “Your majesty, why are these ones here,” “Because I am allowing them too. Now, though. Queen Umina rises from her throne and greets the King. King Mako, it is a pleasure to finally meet despite the circumstances.” “your majesty is that any way to talk to a man who has lost a-” The Queen cuts the general off with a firm hand, and allows the King to continue. “I would say the same, your grace, if your people weren’t busy burning down all I love.” “I am quite sorry for that, but I would be more anguished if the things you love didn’t include slavery and open aggression. The King laughs, slavery and open aggression? What a funny joke coming from you people.” “Watch your tongue Knave!” the general cuts in. “I am afraid I do not know what you discuss.” “You clearly don’t but he does,” he points to the general. “What now you insult me?! I was there when you first attacked our kingdoms lands.” King Mako is upset at this remark. “Yes, your strategic assassination of my father must have been quite hard on you. Tell me. Did you enjoy inciting a war? Were you so bored that you wanted to fight even peaceful neighbors?” “You know nothing of what you speak! I saw my men die from your attacks and we lost villages in the process!” “ENOUGH” The Queen slams her staff into the marble floor. We will discuss this civilly.” “Your grace I would love to discuss this with you but not while he is here.” “He has already proven incapable of allowing me to speak.” “That was only because you insulted everything we have done for 25 years!” “I SAID ENOUGH!” I will discuss this matter as I deem fit, which at this time is without any interference.

Who do we talk with first

>King Mako
>Grand General
>Write in

>>369233
King Mako.

>>369242

“General you may leave.” “But your majesty!” She glares him down. “Yes.. your majesty.” He bows and leaves the building.” “Before I begin your grace I will ask, who are these ones here?” “They are guests of mine and the ones who came and won key battles in the war for our cause.” They asked to be here and I allowed them.” King Mako addresses you all “Well met young ones” he nods his head and you return with a nod of your own.

“Now King Mako we will discuss the war and its conclusions.” the king sighs “I would prefer to talk about the war as it is a subject I have become far removed from compared to recent events.” He begins. “That day 25 years ago my father was killed on the outskirts of our kingdom while on a trip to rural villages and assess their living conditions. As you could imagine the immediate backlash was immense, Malygos was outraged at what had happened and made it a personal mission to bring the one responsible to justice. The one responsible though was a military man from your kingdom.” “What?!” the queen shouts. “What proof do you have.” The remnants of the murder weapon and the way the assassination took place. It was sloppy I heard. They killed the king but hardly any of his guards. As such we had almost 6 eyewitnesses. And the remnants left by the mermaids coral and marble weapons were still at the scene.” “But why?!” “To incite war, your grace.” I was a boy of 5 and the only capable leader besides my father was General Malygos. The war was indeed incited, and Malygos wanted revenge and began to attack mermaid villages demanding the whereabouts of those responsible. Malygos however, didn’t actually kill anyone.” “But the general's reports!” “I can only assume this incriminates the man even more.” “Furthermore, I want you to think about the war, how many times did the mermaid kingdom attack the shark kingdom?” “A lot, as you would expect.” “Yes, but how often did my people attack?” “Equal I would say.” “You would be wrong . “Young ones the operations you were a part of where they attacks or defenses.” he asks you “all of them were attack operations.” Mari jumps in “Even the battle I was at was an attack.” “Also did you ever receive our bids for peace?” “No…” “Who would be in charge of reviewing that before the Queen?” “The general.”

>>369306

Mako begins again“Your grace, I believe the grand general has orchestrated this affair, I do not have clear proof besides what I had already told. For what reason I have no idea, but regardless he is a danger.”

“What about your slaves?” The Queen asks. The King responded “Slaves? You mean victims. Those are people whom around our kingdom have been slowly losing their homes to you and the mermaids. These wayward species had nowhere to go and so fled to the safety of our kingdom.” He looks down for a second. “Though it seems that we have failed to protect them after all.” He looks up to the Queen. “Listen to your grace.” “To what?” “To the screams” “Screams?” “All of my people lost in this war. The capital was being razed as I left and it will forever be burned into my mind. As detached you seem to be from your military it makes sense that you cannot hear them. But Queen Umina, it is all I hear now.”

>Ask Mako questions (what?)
>Switch Mako out for the general.
>Write in

>>369309
Do you know what happened to the Assassins who killed your father or the eyewitness who saw the murder? If you do this would help as it is clear evidence. Also we should roll some sort of insight check. See if he is tell the truth.

>>369323
"The assassins were cloaked and darted away,the eye witnesses were wounded almost purposely less injured than they could have been. We are unaware of what happened to the assassins."

Roll d20+1

Rolled 2 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>369339

>>369345
Welp. Getting the bad rolls out of the way.

>>369348
I assume we believe him so we should switch him out.

>>369345
>>369348
>>369375

Sorry, but I almost feel asleep for the day on accident and am Now crazy tired so tonight we are done. Will be bakc at 7pm PST

>>369402
Sleep good. Enjoy sleep.

>>369345
You can't tell at all if he is lying or telling the truth. You'll have to take what he says at face value.

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>>369375

It’s time to switch to the Grand General. "That is enough King Mako, we will continue this discussion after I am done talking with the Grand General." "I trust you will understand the situation clearly now your majesty." King Mako bows and exits.

The general enters and the Queen speaks, “General I want to ask you what occurred the day of the outbreak of war.” “Ahhh that confusing but black day” he sighs. “That day was like any other, but in the afternoon we were suddenly attacked by the menaces.” We scrambled our forces and a detachment was sent to counter attack quickly in the confusion. I was told that the detachment was able to kill the shark leader as he was in town at the time. I had thought it would have proved to be a massive blow, but Malygos managed to hold together the administration.” He puffs, “Really this whole debacle would have been over if he had not been there. Since then we have been raiding and slowly cornering the shark kingdom from all sides until we, at last, gained victory a few days ago.” he pauses. “Your majesty I am sorry to question, but is now the time to worry about this? You now have a new expansive kingdom to rule.” “I deem what is important, general.” The Queen states I may have allowed you to operate the military, but I will handle civil matters as I deem fit.” The general then backs down. “Yes, your majesty.”

>Ask questions(what?)
>Bring back Mako
>Write in

>>371588
What you said there was quite interesting. "New expansive Kingdom to Rule." So that is what this war was too you. A mission to conquer. But you just can't attack people, well you can but it looks bad and you don't want that. So you got to create a reason. And you can create that easily by assassinating a king and falsifying reports. Like what you did.

>>371632
Then you have your nice war. Where you can constantly be on the attack. Burning villages, killing civilians. Razing capitals. That sort of thing.

>>371632
Roll a d20+3 for intimidate

Rolled 9 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>371666

>>371694
Roll again for charisma trait

Rolled 12 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>371694

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>>371702

“You!...” The general glares at your direction. “I had thought you one for our cause, and now you insult me and insinuate that I instigated this 25-year long event?!” “I am not insinuating general, I am stating facts.” “Why you cur! I ought to gut you right here!” “That is enough!” The Queen slams her staff once again, but the general isn’t stopping. He is moving toward you. “Grand General” The queen calls. “You will cease this behavior this instant.” “And allow me insulted?!” “You are not insulted, you are accused.” “I will not stand for this!” he shouts. “For over 25 years I have protected this lands and held its best interests and now you claim that I had locked ourselves in combat all this time for my own personal gain?! Queen, look around you! What I have done is expand our borders and brought rebellious vermin to heel following their attack. If that is not a resounding success and having the best interest of our kingdom in mind I don’t know what is.”

>>371737

“The problem here is you.” you chime in once again. “You aren't denying your intentions with the war, and the fact that you succeeded in the war only proves that you wanted to gain more land from it. Fighting the war against the sharks who attacked is one thing, but raiding villages and burning towns of others are another.” He responds, “I have not attacked those villages.” “King Mako said you did.” “And so my word is challenged by that of our enemy? My how fair and balanced you are for someone who aided in the destruction of one side.” “Destruction?” the queen inputs. “It was more like an insurance of preventing later rebellions of the shark people by killing a majority of them, razing their cities and placing the rest under our direct care.” “You did what?!” You shout. “I am ensuring that our newly expanded kingdom does not suffer internal strife.” “By doing all of that?!” “Drastic measures are necessary in such times.” “No, they are not!” The queen rejoins the conversation. “General the conquering of the shark people was indeed your task but what immediately happens after is considered civil authority and your actions overstep your bounds.” “But you majesty I had only done what was best for our forces and future.” The Queen rises from her chair, “WHAT YOU DID WAS INVOKE MY AUTHORITY WHEN YOU HAD NONE!”

“Grand General, you are hereby placed under arrest for the war crimes of mass killings of civilians, destruction of cities, and the incitement of war for your own gains.” “You gave me authority over the military, you have no authority to condemn my actions as your general.” “I may not now have the authority of the military as you do, but I DO HAVE AUTHORITY OVER YOU!” A prison of rapid rushing waters forms around the general. “I will not be sent to prison for the crimes of helping my people! The water prison fades. “What?!” The general is charging the Queen. “Mother!” Mari yells.

>Write in

>>371743
Everyone Defend the Queen. Throw everything you got at the General to stop him. So MC Charges and prepares spells. Victoria hurls a spear and or pushes the General with Telekinesis. Yuki throws Knives and charges. Anna Charges and tries to materialize a barriers. Akitani ties to petrify. And Adrian does something.
And use Lethal Force. We are stopping an assassination and he is the mastermind of the plot.

>>371784
Roll accordingly

MC +5
Victoria +8
Yuki +4
Anna +5
Aki + 9
Adrian +2 to a thing

Rolled 11, 14, 4, 19, 13, 6 = 67 (6d20)

>>371838

Rolled 12 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>371852


You all rush into action. You now knew for sure that this man had done the things he is accused of, even if he hasn’t explicitly stated it. His actions now prove it more than ever. You rush the general with death touch in hand, Victoria tosses her spear, Anna rushes to materialize a barrier between them. Yuki tosses some daggers and Akitani works to freeze him in place.

Victoria snags him with the spear, Anna made an effective barrier between the queen and the general, and Aki began petrifying the generals legs. He seems undeterred, however. “Stop this nonsense general! You are committing acts of treason!” “Treason is letting your people fester and deny them their rights!” “Rights?!” “To rule over the lake! You father understood that!” “My father was dethroned for his warmongering and you follow in his footsteps!” “I follow in the footsteps of a true monarch, not one that is content sitting and talking while ignoring the military!” “You…” the Queen stumbles but once again tries to imprison the general. To no effect.

Instead the general turns the mana used by the spell and converts it to a movement ability much like Malygos

Rolling a thing

>>371903

He was too fast to track and the next thing you know. “Aaahhhh!” The general held Mari by the neck. “Mari!” you and the Queen both shout. The general seems to regain some confidence, “Now I will be leaving, or else you risk this princesses head rolling drifting at sea."

>Write in

>>371912
Let us start to diffuse things. Inform him that he is surrounded and that even if he left he would be branded a traitor and hunted down. He would die in shame. And is this how he wants to be remembered. A traitor to the Kingdom. Someone who would attempt to kill the beloved Queen and Princess. Someone who holds no loyalty to their Kingdom.
But If he just lets Mari go and allows himself to be imprisoned then this whole attempting to kill the Queen and Princess thing will be forgotten.
While this is all happening. Start having everyone surround him and have Victoria start to line up a shot on the Grand General.

>>371938

You make motions to your group to surround them. But it seems they don’t seem to be following on what your erratic hand motions mean. “Got it” Adrian whispers. And he darts into a position, for what you assume is to get into actual position. “Oh no,” you say to yourself. Either way, we need to try and diffuse this.

‘General you should consider your situation.” You start. “You will be branded a traitor and hunted down. You would die a disgrace and traitor. If you simply surrender this whole attempt at murder will not be discussed and you may present your case fairly to a magistrate. Either way general, you cannot escape no matter your actions.”

Roll 2d20+4 and I will take the highest as the roll.

Rolled 11, 2 + 4 = 17 (2d20 + 4)

>>371976

Rolled 4, 13 = 17 (2d20)

>>371976

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>>371986
>>372001

“I will not suffer any more insults or watch my kingdom fall into complacency!” The general pulls a knife and raises it to Mari’s neck and slowly starts applying pressure. Blood begins to fall from her neck, but it disperses in the water. “Now, you will let me out of here, now.” “But where will you go, you are one man.” He grins. “I am not so sure about that.” “You hear from outside. “Ughh ahhh.” suddenly the doors busted open, and soldiers poured in. “Your majesty, the capital is in chaos! We don’t know what is going on! where is the grand gener-” The guard notices the situation. “Guardsmen the grand general has been influencing world events for over 25 years. Arrest this man!” “But your majesty, this is so sudden.” “We do not have time for proper explanations!” The queen uproars. If the capital is in chaos then we must resolves this as fast as possible. You are taking back at how in control the Queen seemed when her daughter was being held, hostage. “Your majesty, the guardsmen move to make the arrest, but then, “For the General!” what? The incoming guards were being charged from the back by other guards?!

It seems you still need to resolve this situation. You're talking was making ground but he seems to be more confident given the current chaotic situation. You look over the general's shoulder and see Adrian moving into position, and giving you an enthusiastic thumbs up.

>Adrian pounces!
>Charge in
>Write in

Final post of the night, starting tomorrow I will begin to start posting at 6pm to make more time for posting daily. Weekends will always vary but weekdays will be generally from 6pm PST to 10-10:30pm PST

>>372043
Distract him by talking and allow Adrian to do his thing. He knows what he is doing.

>>372070
Also have your allies charge the traitors.

>>372070
Actually change it up a little. Let Adrian do what he is doing. And when the General is dealing with Adrian, Charge the General with a focus on rescuing Mari. Still have allies attack the traitors though.

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>>373339

You whisper to your group,“Guys deal with the guardsmen,” “But” Akitani tries to protest. “Don’t worry, Adrian and I can handle this.” You honestly don’t expect Adrian to do much, but he will at least provide a distraction so you can charge in and rescue Mari. “If you are sure,Akitani says. “I am."

"Finally, a real chance to let loose!” Victoria is excited as always. “Please try not to get so worked up that you get swarmed like last time,” Anna remarks. “Coming from someone who lost to me.” “I said it was a tie!” They rush in. Yuki hangs in the back of the group providing support. Akitani joins in the assault but was much quieter about it than the two others. “I got an idea pipsqueak lets see how many each of us take down!” “You and your incessant games… I got two so far.” “Catch up girl, I’m working on four.” “No way?!” Somehow through all of this Victoria and Anna manage to find time to yell at each other, Amazing.

You give a minor hand motion to Adrian. You are about 20ft from the General and decided to act. “General.” “You call. “You may have control over members of the military, but you do not control the people.” You take a step forward. “Stay back!” He presses the blade further into Mari’s neck.” “Ahhh” You are hesitant but you need to press forward. “Your numbers cannot hope to match that of the civilian population, plus a civilian uprising, as well as those discontent of the shark kingdom, will lead to your downfall even if your coup were to succeed..” You take another step forward. “I sad step back!” he shouts. But you were already close enough for your plan to succeed. You make the same minor hand motion. Adrian nods, from his position he jumps at the general from behind.

Roll for Adrian pounce.

d20+7

Rolled 9 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>374798

>>374823

Adrian pounces and latches onto the generals back. “What?!” The general is in disarray. Adrian asks,“Uh.. what do I do now?!” are you kidding. You spring over to save Mari but it seems that Adrian's pounce shocked the general and his blade swiped across her neck. Mari falls to the floor. “MARI!” the Queen rushes over to her. Mari is convulsing and coughing up blood. “Mo... ther.” “Mari say here please.” Queen Umina is desperately clenching her throat to stop the bleeding. The light is slowly fading from Mari’s eyes but she is trying to hang on. “Please, no…. Please....” the Queen cries.

“You… you are DEAD!” fury takes hold of you and you sprint at the general.

Roll a d20+8

Rolled 20 + 8 (1d20 + 8)

>>374876
Also call to Yuki if we can.

>>374892

You charged a death spell in your hand, this time, you kept charging it. Black and purple flames raged up your whole arm. The power was so intense that it was eating away at your own arm. You slam into the general. You touch his body and black flames and rot spew forth. “What is- Ahhhh!” he cries. “Holy shit,” Adrian jumps off the general and runs far away from all that. “I... will not…. be bested so easily!” The general shouts and he headbutts you to the floor. “A black hole was forming all over his body but he didn’t seem to care. “As long as I stand I will fight!”

Rage still has hold of you and you are fixated on him. Your right arm is rotting as well, but it is slowly reforming. For now though, you can’t feel it.

How do we beat the general? Note that are not able to ask for party assistance in your current state.

>Write in

>>374946
We are angry so let us harness it. Go full aggression. He is injured so we should exploit that. We should use our right arm a shield though, since we can't feel it.

>>374987
Roll a flat d20

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>375020

>>375025

You reach for his tail. You grab it but it seems you can’t cast a spell. Your mana must have been expended during that attack. The general goes to stab you but you toss your arm in the way to block it. This has become a habit it seems. Good thing you can’t feel it, though.

You pull yourself up off of him. He is trying to wiggle the knife out of your arm, but you flail what you can around to make it as annoying to do so for him as possible. You will defeat this bastard somehow but your rage doesn’t seem to be enough.

>You need more
>Calm down
Either option roll a d20
Get angry d20-1
Calm down d20+1

Rolled 2 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>375065
Rage isn't working. We need to mix it up and calm down. And now we have this fancy knife that we can retrieve.

>>375100

You think you should calm down, but you think back to Mari who is currently dying only yards away from you. Your rage begins to know no bounds. You take your arm that the general was trying to grab the knife out of and slam it into the general. He seems confused, but you punch him with your other hand. “Ha… ha…” you are breathing heavily “Now you are a mad dog girl?” The general taunts. You charge. You punch him in the stomach with your good arm, but you never impacted. In your rage, you punched through one of the holes in his body. He seizes the opportunity and grabs your arm and bends it in unnatural ways . “Ahhhhhhh!” No both of your arms are shot. One rotting and another irreparably broken.

>We need MORE d20+5
>Calm down d20-5

Rolled 13 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>375145
We need more Anger. Let it fuel us.

>>375164

If you couldn’t calm down you’ll just have to get more angry. “Hhhaaaa’ you scream. You then rip the knife in your arm out with your teeth and stab into the general. Your legs moved in a flurry. “A mad dog is baring its teeth.” the general taunts once again. You don’t care as long as he is dying and you were doing to killing. The general grabs one of your legs and snaps it in half. You didn’t feel a thing.

You have one leg and a knife in your mouth. The general is rotting away and has your knife and by extension, your mouth plunged into him. Neither of you are stopping, but there must be some end in sight to this.

>RIP AND TEAR! D20+8
>Write in

Rolled 8 + 8 (1d20 + 8)

>>375196
Rip and Tear. We want to end him. He has killed or almost killed Mari.

Rolled 17 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>375250

You think of only the logical thing to do in this situation. Rip and tear! RIP AND TEAR! You move your mouth to slash and plunge the knife wound deeper. The general tried to resist and reaches for your neck.

Rolling for general

>>375281
Fuuuuu-

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>>375281

He turns your neck forcibly to the side. Doing so only worsened his wounds as the knife traveled with your head along his stomach, but there is a thunderous snap. Both you and the general fall to the floor. You couldn’t feel much of anything. Nor could you move your head. Adrian runs over. “Are you okay?” he asks. You can’t really answer. “Shit there has to be something” his eyes drift across the room. “Yuki! We need you” Yuki runs over and immediately looks ill. Your body was a mangled mess. Your arm and leg shattered. Your other arm rotting and your neck twisted unnaturally to the side. Yuki is panicking. “What… Oh my god, don’t worry I can do… something!” she shouts in her own frustration.

You try to look around as you remember something vitally important. Mari was still dying in her mother's arms. "Please, no.. don't do this to me..." the Queen continues to cry. You had your regenerative abilities, but you had no idea how well they worked. And Mari was currently bleeding out.You feel the ability to speak, but only briefly. “Yuki…” She responded “Yes?”

>"Save Mari"
>"Save Me"

Voting period will be extended for this decision

>>375336
We are a god damn Hero and you know what heroes do. Sacrifice to save innocents. And Mari is an innocent Girl caught up in this whole mess and dying. So we do the Heroic thing and save Mari.

>>375351
Also if we die here we are getting a one way express ticket to Valhalla. We did some awesome warrior stuff. How could the Valkyries Resist?

>>375336
Tell Yuki to drag Mari's body next to you while healing her.

>>375361
what are you hoping to accomplish with this?

>>375447
Multitask healing or she'll take less time to run to us once she's done healing Mari.

>>375457
I think this is one of those one or the other moments.

>>375465
So no multitasking.

>>375465
I mean she heals us while the rest of the team drags her towards us.
Once Mari reaches us, Yuki might be able to multitask heal, and if she can't, Mari will most likely be already saved and Yuki can focus on us.

>>375479
I'm not sure people are in a state to be dragged. Mari did get her throat slit open. You don't really want to move people suffering from that. And I suspect that with either option it will require a bunch of magic to heal. Like I said this feels like a one or the other option, not a save everyone option. Though we might still survive without Yuki's magic due to Regen.

>>375447
How good is Yuki at healing?

>>375495
Looking at the stats sheet, http://pastebin.com/v6wsp2mx, Minor holy magic. So I would guess not great, but enough to save a person.

>>375503
>>375495
Note that she has gotten better since her time in the arena, but not enough to increase her overall holy magic skills.

She also has a mending ability

>>375510
Mend her wound enough so that she can breath and not choke on blood, then Yuki can focus on healing us.

>>375518

You honestly want to save both of you, but Mari has her throat slit open. “Yuki.. mend her neck first.” “But what about you?” “fix her immediate problems then come back to me.” I can do that but even if we do that she could suffer serious damage without proper care.”

“Damn it!” you thought. No matter what you do in this situation one of you will suffer severe damage if not death.

>Ensure MC's safety
>Ensure Mari's safety

>>375518
I don't think we should do that. Mari is not just choking on blood, she has lost a lot of it during the whole fight with the Grand General. So the healing magic should go to her. Also having Yuki heal us is super out of character for us. We are generally heroic. And as I said earlier the Heroic thing to do is help the innocent. Furthermore we can literally regenerate wounds. So we have a higher chance of survival without the healing. Mari has literally no chance of survival without Yuki's magic. And looking at the character's action deciding not to save someone and letting an innocent girl die is super out of character.

>>375544
Ask Yuki if she can heal you both if you are right next to each other.

>>375544
Ensure Mari's Safety. Letting an innocent girl die is out of character for us. We are a hero. We save innocents.

>>375550
KeeperofSafe did just say proper care. Moving people around is pretty much against proper care. Especially for a throat slitting.

>>375550
"I can try, I got pretty decent at the arena, but I can't guarantee anything."

"Mari... Mari!.... MARI!" the queen frantically shouts. "Somone help! Mari has.... has..." You gaze over. Mari has stopped breathing and is now motionless.

>Save one for sure
>try to save both

>>375563
Save one.

>>375563
Save one. With that one being Mari.

>>375567
who are you voting to save> MC I assume by your previous posts.

>>375579
Mari

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>>375569
>>375586

“Save… her..” you puff out. “BUT?!” Yuki tries to argue, but you say. “Don’t worry Yuki, I’ll be fine like always.” You try to smile the best you can. Yuki has tears in her eyes. “That's a promise she yells and runs toward Mari.” “Please help her!” Queen Umina yells. “I am going to make sure she will be fine,” Yuki resolutely says. Mari after a while coughs up a large amount of blood and takes a huge breathe. “MARI!” The queen hugs her daughter. She is jarred and doesn’t say much, but she is alive and that is enough for both you and the queen. “NOW!...” Yuki is sprinting over to you, but you seem to be feeling quite tired. Not to mention in intense pain. You think. “Maybe it would be okay to take a nap for just a bit.” You close your eyes and drift away.

Hmm, should I use up my trip?

>>375673
I think we are past that. Besides. The writer doesn't look done yet. There is going to be more.

>>375673
That's up to you. Just present me you trip and I will accept your logical override.

>>375678
Fair enough.

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>>375654

“My, my that was quite thrilling darling.” Mother remarks. Here you are once again in this strange black cafe. “So, how did it feel?” Mother asks you across from the cafe table. “How did what feel?” “Failing.” You were offended. “Failing?! We found the one responsible and managed to kill him and probably the traitors.” “That you did.” She takes a sip of her wine in a pause. “But what did it take?” “It took…” Mother finishes your sentences. “The near genocide of an entire people which you played no small role in.” “But that was only because!” “Because you decided to trust those you first met and worked with them unaware? Darling, that would have been a proper excuse but for you, it is surprisingly troubling. You are always so talkative and wish to resolve matters peacefully. “But did you ever try talking to the shark folk before their people and the refugees were slaughtered? The king told you their side of the story, but it was far too late to save anything. Instead, you aided in the killing of their people, and also due to your actions caused a military coup on the very kingdom you were fighting for.” She giggles slightly, “Hehe, I would say that I am impressed if it was one of my warriors or relatives who did such a thing, but for you to do so is...frankly disappointing” “What is your point in this?!” you question her lecture. “The point is that there is a lesson here dummy, one that I thought you already knew.”

She thinks for a second, “Well I guess as a special present for what you did I’ll tell you, but be thankful now. Darling, who is the just ones in war?” “The ones that fight on the side of good, justice and for others who suffer.” “Now who defines those things?” “Society? People?” you jeer. “Indeed people. So what is to say if people develop two different interpretations of good, or justice? Two different definitions of the same word are inexcusable to the other and thus war occurs.” Another sip. “Darling, no one goes to war thinking the other side is right. Your mistake is not trying to understand both sides before deciding.”

>>375739

“By the way darling, it seems you will be in for a rude awakening.” “So you mean I will be awakening.” “Indeed, although things will be different for you now. You managed to make another mistake and saved that girl over yourself.” “How can you say that!” You slam your first on the cafe table. “So you take no value in your life then? Wishing well for others but not understanding your necessity to others.” “What do you mean?” “I mean that I am not blind, I told you that you were special and you already too special to those around you. Throwing those things away to play the hero is childish.” “It is childish to help people?!” “It is childish to throw away your own life!” Mother yells at you and abruptly slams her hand against the table and stands up. This is actually the first time she has ever yelled at you. It was honestly jarring. After a second she slinks back down to her resting position.“Darling you don’t understand yet, but you will have to learn what it means to be someone irreplaceable. Maybe when you are older.” she ponders. “For now, though, you will have to deal with the consequences of your actions.” “I will speak to you again.” And like that, she is gone. She didn’t even make one childish joke this time. She must really be upset.

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>>375743

You slowly open your eyes. You are still in the royal palace and Akitani is asleep at your bedside along with Yuki. “What happened” you weakly say. Thankfully you seem to be able to move your arms again thanks to your regenerative power, but it still takes all of your strength to do it. “Guys you try to shake Yuki and Akitani awake. “Mhmm, what?" Yuki is the first to rise. “You're awake! Thank god!” Yuki hugs you. “We need to tell the others she rushes and calls for the others.” “Akitani was right here, though.” “Aki” you gently say. She is crying and embraces you. “Don’t do that, ever again” She cries into your shoulder. Everything hurts still so even this incited some pain, but you were willing to deal with it for now. “How do you feel?” Aki asks.

Alright, All things considered. You could move your neck, arms torso, the basics. “Wait…” “What?” Akitani asks. “I... I can’t feel my legs.”

End of today. Sorry for the long post. Seeing as tomorrow is Saturday and I do not have plans I will be returning around 3pm PST and run till about this time tomorrow. Unless things spontaneously come up

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>>375760

‘What do you mean?” Akitani seems confused. "I can’t feel my legs, or… move them.” “What?!” Akitani throws off the covers over you and looks at your legs. “But they seem perfectly fine. One is a little bent out of shape for sure, but the other one looks completely normal as it always has been.” Indeed they did look fine, but.. You wiggle around and no matter what you do you can’t move your legs. “Aki, they may look fine, but I can’t...” “Nonsense!” Akitani pulls you up straight on the bed. She holds you as you stand on the mattress. “This proves it,” she says and then let's go. You slump immediately over. Your legs become an intertwined mess underneath you and you need to use your arms to move them back to a normal position. “Aki, I don’t think I'll be walking, or even standing anytime soon.” “But what about the journey we were all on?” “I know!” you say while slamming down your hands on your legs. Why did this have to happen? “What is going to happen,” Akitani asks. “We will have to continue.” you weakly respond“But you can’t walk!” “we will find a way.” “But-” you grab Aki’s trembling claw. “Aki, listen, we will find away.” She doesn’t say anything but looks incredibly concerned.

Yuki returns a few minutes later and brings the rest of the gang. “Finally awake? You really need to break this bad habit of passing out after run-ins with enemies.” Victoria chides. “At least she is alright, can we at least be happy about that?” Anna shoots back. “You’re just mad I got more than you.” “Did not!” “Did too!” “Did not!” “ladies please,” Adrian cuts through them. "It can be said that we won that day due to my refined sense of strategery and distracted the general for our brave leader to deal with.” He probably could have helped during the real fight, but he wasn't wrong. At least everyone seems alright after the events of the other day. However...

“Everyone.” You address them. Akitani is still holding your hand. “I can’t walk.” You utter. “Well we are underwater, aren’t we technically swimming down here?” Adrian thinks out loud. “Quiet” Akitani snaps at him. You start again. “I can’t feel or move my legs.” “No way, I made sure to heal you non-stop!” Yuki rushes to your bed and examines your legs. She tries her magic on them, but you feel nothing. “Damn it!” Yuki shouts. “Why isn’t it working, all I can do is fix things and I even managed to screw that up! Why!” “Yuki, it's alright, you tried your best.” “My best didn’t save your legs.” “Don’t worry, we’ll find someway around this,” Victoria says from the back. “Knowing you, you’ll figure it out in no time.” “I have come to expect no less” Anna agrees. “For now, I suppose someone will have to carry you.

>Designate a party member to carry you. (very much so counts as a social link)

>>377960
Aki.

>>377960
Victoria.

We should also try if we have the medical knowledge to attack the part of the spine which helps move our legs.

>>378008
And then heal said part.

>>378012
I don't think we have Kenshiro powers so that wont work. Further more nervous system are complicated things so there is no real specific part that helps move the legs. Also we are 12 so that knowledge is way above us.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>377968
>>378008

Rolling for carrier
1=Aki
2=Victoria

>>378060

Victoria is probably the strongest member of your group besides maybe Aki. “Victoria would you mind helping me?”“What you need?” “Could you carry me until we sort out what is going on.” “You want me to what?!” she is clearly upset at the thought. “It will only be until we can make something better suited, but for now, I need help.” She isn’t happy about it, but, “Well… okay, but no one gets to look!” Anna giggles to herself.

Victoria moves to your bed to help you up when you hear a yell from outside the room. “She’s awake!” The next second Mari darts into the room and hugs you. “The hero awakens! Just like the plays!” “Mari let the poor girl go she needs to rest.” Queen Umina walks into the room. “But mooooooooom,” “No buts!” “awwwww” the Queen raises her brow,“More importantly Mari, there is something you wanted to say?” Mari says earnestly. ‘Thank you and I am sorry that I got in the way.” “Mari if you want to thank anyone you should be thanking Yuki, not me.” Mari turns “Thank you again Yuki,” “no… problem.” Yuki responds. She still seemed to be thinking about your legs, but there is no getting around that she saved Mari’s life.

“The Queen readdresses you, “You must have many questions.” “What do you wish to know about what happened that day?”

>Don’t worry about it, the kingdom is safe as is Mari. let's just leave
>Ask questions (what?)
>Write in

>>378143
What happened with the whole coup thing? Also what happened to the Grand General and Mako? Also do you know how the Shark Kingdom is doing? And how long have I been out? Finally how are you and Mari doing now that everything has happened?

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>>378168

“You have been out for about a week. It seems your confrontation with the previous grand general took much out of you, though more so from him. Even with a week through your recovery speeds were outstanding. I was sure you would have to amputate some of your limbs.” Thanks, regeneration. “The military coup was a bit of a hassle, many of the military personnel were sprawled into action but once the general was confirmed dead many of them lost cause and the rebellious flames quickly puttered out. Though we are still dealing with some rebels who have hidden away in the outskirts of the kingdom.”

“King Mako managed to escape most serious injuries but he was harmed during the attempted coup. After the general died I decided to work with him in once again building trust between our peoples. It will take perhaps a decade to repair relations but for now, we have occupied and began to rebuild their kingdom. King Mako returned to his former capital, but I asked him if he wished to advise each other for the time being. He is hesitant due to the recent slaughter, and understandably so. From what comes from all of that I do not yet know.”

“As for us. We… I can never be more grateful to you and your friends. We finally resolved this long conflict, weeded out corruption in our own ranks and even saved my daughter's life. I am forever thankful that Mari had brought you all that day. Truly, thank you.” The Queen gives a bow. She taps Mari on the back. Mari is startled but then bows. After a bit, the Queen and Mari rise. “I am afraid there is not much I can offer you in the current state of our kingdom, but if there is anything you desire I will do the most I can to assist.

>Write in (within reason obviously)

>>378243
Some additional equipment to help us on our journey would be good. Also any information that you have about the lands outside of this lake.

>>378243
Teaching us some magic to increase our physical prowess would also be good.

>>378283
>>378305

“Is it possible to get some sort of equipment from you for our journey as well as information about the area around the lake?” “Of course,” the Queen says. “We have some fine armor here as well as weapons. Though they are tested for underwater encounters and I do not know their effects above water. Also as we are largely refined to our lake we do not know much about the surrounding area. There is a village to the west the forest beyond that. The edge of the plane is to the east. Beyond that, I do not have too many details as I largely focus on the politics down here.”

“Is it also possible to teach us a bit of magic or increase our physical abilities.” “Magic I could teach you a bit, though if none of you have the aptitude you will only learn basic things such as underwater breathing and basic water manipulation. And as for your physical abilities, the time you have spent down here will benefit you tremendously once you return to the surface.

You received most of the things you ask for. You gain some coral blades, and reef and rock equipment. Also, you learned some basic water abilities that may help you in the future. “Is there anything else you might need for your journey and when are you planning to leave so we can prepare a proper send-off.

>Head off asap
>Linger in the Mermaid Kingdom (and do what?)
>Write in

>>378434
Can't think of much else to do. We should leave, after the proper send off of course.

>>378454

“We should head out soon we have intruded in your palace long enough and you have more worries with the kingdom to consider.” “Awww, but I don’t want you to go just yet!” Mari pouts. “Mari, as the future queen you need to respect their decision,” “Yes, mommmmmm,” she says almost forcibly. “Alright, we shall prepare the send off for tonight. Please rest here until tonight.”

The next few hours were fairly peaceful. Yuki tells you all the cute accessories she found in the past week down here. Anna and Victoria seem to be playing cards. But it looked like one of the most intense card games ever. They were slamming their cards against the floor. “I have you now pipsqueak!” Victoria claimed. “You would, however, you just activated my trap card!” “AGAIN?!” Aki contrastingly spends most of the time by you, making sure you are comfortable and providing you with decent company until. A knock on the door and the Queen steps into the room. All the things are prepared, Come let us meet in the main hall for your send off.”

Now is finally the time. “Victoria, could you please?” “I know” She picks you carries you on her back. “What is this?!” the Queen was in shock at the sight. You forgot to tell them about that. “I seem to be unable to feel or use my legs.” “Why didn’t you say so.” “She turns and calls to guards outside.” “I understand your situation, but for a proper send off we should have you looking more regal than riding on the back of a friend” A few moments later a nice chair on with bars attached to the bottom arrived. The Queen had Victoria place you on the chair and you were then lifted by six guards and carried to the audience. Truthfully this was all quite embarrassing. Being put on grandiose display like this. But at least Victoria was happy that she didn’t have to carry you in front of all those people.

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>>378557

A feast was held in your name and the Queen gave a speech about your deeds. The ending of the war, the killing of a corrupt official and subsequent savior of the shark kingdom. King Mako was actually there and wished you well.

Mari was also there to do a…. Uh. “Stop their foul heathen for you have taken the beautiful princess of this kingdom hostage.” “Mari! Mari my darling what would I ever do without you? Brave hero, please save my daughter and this kingdom!” “You need not worry your majesty for I shall save this kingdom and the people of this lake!”. It seems Mari has organized a grand play adaptation of your encounter with the general. There was a bit of an issue with it, though. Mari was playing every character. “You will not touch the princess a single finger more heathen!” Mari thing ran to the other side of the stage. “Please brave strong hero save me.” She then switched personas. “Stay back you! I will kill her and the future of this kingdom will be dooooooooooooooomed” Mari ran to the other side of the room breathing heavily. “ *ha… ha…. ha* “MY DAUGHTER NOOOOOOOO!” Once again back to the hero’s spot *ha…. Hhaaaa. haaa* “Do not… worry princess… for I shall… use my.” She seems to be barely holding it together, but she is giving it her all.

After a while, the Queen prepared the final send off. “We must part now with these brave heroes who came here in our lakes time of need. They have much more to discover, and perhaps more peoples to encounter or save. I, Queen Umina of this kingdom hereby acknowledge you and your group as friends and allies to this kingdom. If you ever need assistance please feel free to contact us.” She then holds out her hand and places in yours a set of fine pearl earrings. “These are our kingdom's finest treasure and I wish for you to have it with on your journey and wear it proud.” You accept the gift. “Thank you, your majesty.” "We wish these heroes a safe journey and that they may one day return. For now, though, it is time to part. Everyone! Let us give humble thanks to this hero one last time” The crowd roars and claps became so abundant it was almost thunderous.

When making your way back to the surface you hear a blowing noise behind you. “Please don’t forget about me!” Mari was crying and blowing her nose into a tissue. The Queen was behind her with her hand on Mari’s back and waving at you as you left. “I could never forget about you Mari, and thank you all of everything," you smile, wave and then are promptly dragged to the water's surface.

>End of Mermaidia arc exp total 4750/6250

I will be taking a break and be back in about an hour and a half until then decide what should happen next. Beach time or journey elsewhere

>>378623
Beach episode.

>>378625
Sorry for delay new update is taking far longer than I intended it to.

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>>378625

It was late in the evening so you retired in the town that night but the next morning.

“Let's go to the beach!” Yuki jumped excitedly at the site in front of her. This time surely, she would get to have her fun day in the sun. The rest of the party was equally as enthusiastic, except Victoria who seemed a bit embarrassed and annoyed at the same time in her swimsuit. Anna and Yuki run eagerly into the waist high water and begin a simple game of splash. Victoria preferred not to join it seems. “Hey, Victoria you not joining in because you’re afraid I’m better at this game than you?!” “Why you little” Victoria stomps into waist High water to confront Anna when. “Surprise!” Yuki jumps at Victoria from behind her and tackles her into the water. “Good job Yuki! Now for my finisher!” Anna elbow drops into the water.

“Seems like fun,” Akitani says sitting next to you on the beach. “Yeah…I’m glad everyone finally got the chance to relax after what just happened.” You sigh and throw yourself back onto the sand. “Hey stop that.” you hear coming from the waves. It seems the girls managed to drag Akitani into their fun. “Good… for… her… Damnit!” You punch the sand next to you. Here you were sitting on a beach away from everyone because your legs didn’t work. It was terrible. At the moment you couldn’t go anywhere without someone's help or even do mundane simple things like this. You wish you could just make your legs work with your hands so you could join everyone, but it seems you are to be sidelined.

You sigh, "It’s not fair." “Of course, it isn’t, but you were the one who choose this outcome.” Mother is in your head. You see her sitting next to you on the beach dressed appropriately in a complementing swimsuit. “I know, but when I think about something small like this I can’t help but think about larger issues that are sure to come up. How will I save someone if I cannot get there in time? How will I solve complex issues without being able to move? I fear that I might become… helpless and then useless to others.” You tear up a bit at the thought “Shhhhhh, there there, Mother is here” Mother says warmly. Now your head seems to be in her lap and she places her hand on your head. “As I told you before you are special and I know you will prove it by overcoming this obstacle.” “Easy for you to say.” “Now don’t be like that you just have to look around you.” “for what?” She just smiles at you.

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>>379321

“Hey what are you doing over there by yourself,” Yuki says running over to you. “Ah?” you snap back to reality. “You know why I- hey!” Yuki grabs your arm, Victoria and Akitani join in. “What are you-?” they carry you to the ocean were Anna seems to have set up an innertube and they toss you into it. You hear Adrian yell enthusiastically "2 points for team Y, how will team A respond?" “Team Y? Team A? What are you guys- aahhh” They all spin you around in the inner tube and toss you back and forth at each other. “A tricky move by team A for sure. Twisting the ball to their own advantage." “I’m a ball?!” This is ridiculous! But I guess if this is how it's gonna be. “Take that!” You splash water at everyone around you. “The ball fights back! What a turn of events ladies and gentleman! how will the teams respond?” “No fair! Using your new magic is against the rules!” Yuki protests. “Says who?” “Says me!” she throws water in your face. “That doesn’t- ahhh” You begin to be assaulted by all sides. You have not a moment's rest to fend off the hungry players. The water fight between you all escalated to grandiose scales. Victoria was trying to punch water at people. Anna made a water shield but to keep it fair used her normal hands for her attacks, Yuki ducked behind Anna’s shield and would then get Anna from behind. Akitani was wading through the water trying to trip people with her tail. All the while Adrian was commentating. “And a huge splash from our leader, OUTTA NOWHERE!”

You hear Mother’s voice once again “You just have to look around darling.” “Hey that’s not fair I need my arms for that!” you yell at your friends. Your playing continues but you can hear her clearly in your head. “Look around, and find the people who find you irreplaceable.” Your furious water battle raged on. And through it all, you couldn’t be happier.

The time of fun in the sun was beginning to wind to an end. Everyone seemed tired at the hours you all spent doing this, and while wading in the water you think. Where are we going from here?

>Write in

sorry this took a long time but I really got into writing this piece and I hope you all liked it

>>379351
Could you post the map again.

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>>379464

>>379492
Let us go to the great Aizu river. But take a path that takes a near the accursed lands.

>>379513

The night winds down. You and the rest of the gang are floating in the water when you bring up. “Guys we gotta go somewhere next.” “Where?” they collectively respond. “Let’s keep with the theme of water and head for the Aizu river. Adrian jumps up “Isn’t that on the other side of the plane.” “Yeah.” “NOOOOOOOOOOOOO” sounds about right for him. Everyone else follows you lead. Victoria carries you back to the inn you were staying at for the night. Funny, you forgot about it, but at least now you are somewhat more used to it. Victoria asks, “Hey, you alright?” “Yeah I think I’m gonna be fine.” You were sure about that.

The night passed relatively well except you all woke up to find you spent a little bit too much time in the sun and are now burned in several areas. “Why didn’t I bring sunscreen,” Yuki says to herself. “Because it doesn’t exist here,” Anna replies. “Awww man, Now my feet are gonna hurt even worse. My boy boys, I knew the well.” Seeing Adrian doing this before made you laugh a bit but now given what happened, it makes you a little mad. But you will suppress it for now.

Alright everyone so we are going to circumvent the forest to the north and then walk along the border to the accursed lands till we get near the mouth of the river. “Where are doing what?!” Akitani protests. “We can’t go near there!” “Because of the whole “accursed”?” “Because of the “accursed” part! She shouts. Meh, you think it should be fine. “I would rather cut back through the forest” besides the moth people were pleasant were they not?” She has a point.

Hmmm

>No we are traveling along accursed lands
>Let's cut through the forest.

>>379702
Let us take the accursed lands. Last time we were in that forest all that slavery stuff happened.

>>379744

You stand your ground. “Aki, the last time we went into that forest we became slaves for a couple weeks.” “Fair point… I just don’t like it. Nothing sits right with that place.” “Which is why we aren’t going in it just near it.” “Still.” “It will be fine.” “I hope so.”
You begin the long walk to the River and Victoria was still carrying you. She had to switch off though as hours of carrying a person can no doubt take a lot from a person.

Roll a flat d20

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>379867

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>>379887

You are walking along the border of the accursed lands and it seemed a stark contrast to where you all were walking. On your side, green plains but only a few meters away from you was harsh black ash and soot. You hear a roar of a something big in there and a rumbling of the earth coming from under one of the many volcanoes. You can understand why Aki did not want to go this way.

You continue on your travels when your group spots something in the distance. It looked like a house. On the border? As you get closer you can make out more of the scene. It was more of a hut rather than a full house and around it hung chicken legs. This would be weird but it seems there is a small farm set up in the vicinity of the hut full of chickens. You can also see an old lady who appears to be feeding and tending to them. She around and. She waves in your direction. She seems to have noticed you. She is continuing to wave as if beckoning you over.

>Write in

Last post for the night, I’ll start posting tomorrow around 5pm PST. I may also make a new thread but I will determine that in the morning

>>379983
Approach but be on guard. Weird old women near danger is never a good sign.

>>380069

You decide to approach this old woman, but she is the first thing you have fun into near the accursed lands so it is best to stay on guard. You warn everyone to be ready for anything and you approach the old woman.

“Hello there young ones, what are you doing all the way out here?” the old woman asks. “We are travelers heading to the Great Aizu River.” You respond. “My my, travelers this far north?” the woman says. “We did not wish to go through the woods as the people there have proven hostile in most cases.” “Hohoho, and so you think the accursed lands are better girl? My this is the funniest thing this old woman has heard in a long while” She laughs a bit more to herself. “Well, young travelers as a resident near this area I can say for certainty that almost everything near here can and will harm you.” She quickly looks over your group before continuing, “But you all seem well equipped for such encounters. Except… you.” She leans in over toward you, eyeing your legs. “Can’t use them?” “No, I lost the ability to recently.” “A traveler without the ability to travel? Hohohoho” She laughs again. “Young one, you have put me in a good mood and I think I may be able to help. However, I would have to ask you all to stay the night here. The sun is getting low and even the borders of the accursed lands become highly dangerous at night without the right preparation.” She smiles “It has also been a long time since I have had proper company, and you could spare an old woman from her solitude and chickens.”

>Agree to stay and talk
>No, we should keep moving
>Write in.

>>382143
Ask her how she can help with the MC's legs.

>>382167

“How would you help my legs.” “By at least making it easier for you to move around. There are many methods I suppose we can find the one best suited for you.” Sounds like something you might say to mother. You don’t think she is going to explain much more either. At least, until entering her home.

>>382209
Let us agree to stay and talk. As she said it can get dangerous at night and she has survived so far. Still staying on guard though, she might be the danger.

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>>382225

“I guess we should stay thing and wait out the night.” ‘Wonderfull! I’ll go and set the table.” She walks back into her hut. You following after her. The inside of the hut was amazing, vastly decorated, but what was awe inspiring was just how huge it was on the inside. There were at least 5 different rooms that you are certain wouldn’t fit looking from the outside. “Now where are they?” You hear the old woman say as she searches for something in the kitchen. “Ahh, here they are.” She pulls out the fine china and sets them on the table. “You’ll have to excuse the wait, I wasn’t expecting company.” “It's okay, we weren’t expecting to stop here either.” “Hoho, look at me all worked up over company I forgot to even introduce myself. My name is Yaga and this is my humble home.” You introduce yourselves but you think back where have you heard Yaga before. Yaga, Yaga…. Yaga… Seifried! That’s right he wrote out that there was a witch that lived near the accursed lands name Yaga who turns people into monsters.

“Guys stay on guard, no matter what.” “Rodger.” they agree. “ Sorry again for the wait everyone but dinner is about to begin. Please join me.” “You all walk to the dining area where there is a massive table that was just large enough to seat all of you. “Victoria slumps you into the seat next to Yaga and a meal on edge begins.

>Dig in
>Don’t eat it
>Write in

>>382310
Don't eat. But do bring up Seifried and the whole Yaga turning people into monsters. Also be ready to run/defend ourselves.

>>382321

You decided not to eat, just in case. However, “This is the best thing I have eaten since I got here!” Adrian yells. Well, he is in charge of himself you suppose. “Yaga, I am sorry to rush our takings but I wanted to at least bring up your some concerns.” “You mean while is an old lady living by herself tending to chickens next to the accursed lands?” “Well… yes.” “Well you need not worry young one. I am merely an old woman who enjoys her time alone, though after every couple hundred years it is nice to talk to others.” Hundreds of years?! That means she must be the one Seigfried mentioned. “Does that mean you are-” “A witch. Yes." She takes a sip of water. “It seems you read that fools book. He was my last bit of company, and although somewhat endearing he was far too forward and inquisitive about... everything. He reinforced my isolate behavior” Yaga sighs. “Does that mean you can turn people into- monsters.” “Is that how you want to fix your legs?” “What?” “If I told you that by doing so you would get your legs back, or even stop needing them how would you feel?” “Confused.” “As most of my former human patrons are.” She takes a deep breath and leaned back in her chair.

“So let me ask, If it were up to you, how would you fix your legs? And what would you be willing to lose to get them back?”

>Write in

>>382388
What would we be willing to lose. Well certainly not any of our companions. No damning others to heal ourselves, selfish stuff like that. Also no loss of sanity or lose of other limbs. Also no loss of humanity. No harming self to repair something else. Lost of time is fine. Preferably if that time loss is spent helping others.

As to fixing legs. Powerful enough healing magicks or magical items should in theory fix our nerves. Though alternative forms of movement are also good. Stuff like flying carpets or brooms, Moving chairs, that sort of thing. No changing our legs though. We want to stay human.

Preferably go on some quest, get legs back in normal working order by fixing the nerves with magic.

>>382388
Wed be willing to turn into one of the more human races, but no loss of companions, sanity, self, mind, etc.

>>382421
>>382427

You briefly look around at all your companions.“I am not willing to give up much, time maybe, I don’t really want to be something different than I am. Humanoid monsters maybe, but. I want to stay me if at all possible.” you say with conviction. There is no way you are sacrificing anything important to you like your friends. “So you want to stay the way you are but get the benefits back.” “In which case, the easiest thing you could have done was let the girl die.” You jump up from your seat “How do you know about that?!” “I am a witch, remember. You could make a contraption to assist your locomotion. Perhaps a chair on wheels of some sort or maybe a magic carpet.” She ponders for a second. “Nah, we got rid of all of those after the incident.”

You break through her words. “Is there something we can do for you to help us and that allows me to stay the same.” “Hohoho, that sounds so adventurous of you, putting yourself in potential harm's way to justify the benefits you may receive.” Yaga chuckles. “Tell you what, I have an errand to run tomorrow and I want you to go and complete it for me. I plan this to be a small test of sorts so I won’t tell you the full details until you decide.” The witch proposes

>Sure
>No

>>382514
Low blow Yaga. Low blow.
Before we accept we need a little more info. Nothing specific just vague. Stuff like, where do we need to go in general, can we bring our companions, do you think there will be fighting, vaguely how long should this take. That sort of thing.

>>382569

“Oh, it shouldn’t take you to long, a day at least, a week at most. But it all depends on how things develop on the way. Fighting might occur, but that is dependent on you. Also, I want you to go alone, but given your situation you are allowed one accomplice if you wish. I will watch over the rest of your group.” “What?! No way!” you protest. At this time outside you hear loud howling and the ground around you begins to shake. You hear something big fly over the hut. Yaga then says "Trust me, they are far safer in this hut than out there.” Continual howling, and you think you hear something getting ripped in half. “Don’t worry, my many years here have taught me to create a magic barrier over our small patch of land. Nothing out there will be able to harm you. Except me of course, hohohoho.” She laughs.

>Sure (choose someone to come with you, if you wish)
>Nope, we’re done, bye

>>382607
Hmm, we could always choose to transform.

>>382611
That would definitely piss off Mother. She did say we were special. But she did also mention the special quality comes from being human

>>382607
Ask her about how transforming into a humanoid monster would fix our legs.

>>382607
Sure. We should take Akitani. She can physically carry us and fight with her Gaze.

>>382607
>>382614
We should also wait before accepting.

>>382620
Wait for what?

>>382624
Ask her more questions before accepting.

>>382626
Like what questions. We have clearly figured out what the mission entails without getting the full details.

>>382627
And how do you plan on defeating it when we are incapable of using our legs.
Aki would be the only one capable of really fighting it.

>>382629
What is there to defeat? All we know about fighting is that there may be some. We might piss off a goblin or something. And besides fixing our who leg problem comes after the quest. We need to help her so she trusts us. Then we help her again and we fix our transportation problems. As was detailed previously.

>>382633
Also further more, trying to figure out how we defeat the problem without knowing what the problem is doesn't do anything.

>>382633
We have just heard the ground shake, something flying above us and something getting torn in two.
Sounds to me we might piss off more than just a goblin.

>>382637
Those are the things that come out at night. As Yaga has previously said. I am assuming that she will not send us on a quest we can't complete. She is sending us on an errand she want's done.

>>382640
She says the errand will take us a day at least and a week at most, it will take us most likely a few days to complete. That means we will have to possibly deal with the things that come out at night.

>>382647
That is a possibility if she sends us into the accused lands. But she has not told us where we are going yet.

>>382650
So why not ask her our destination?

>>382614
"Well, you would just have to transform into a monster that doesn't use your current legs. Essentially it would in a way rewrite your body, fixing your legs but also changing them."

>>382651
She gives you a look and smiles.

>>382651
I did. I asked where we need to go in general. We got back how long it will take.
We still need to make a decision though. We have sparse info about a quest. But after completing this one and probably helping her further, she will fix our transportation problems. How she does that comes later of course.
I say we take the quest. She is here and offering so why not.

>>382654
>>382657
Transforming into a monster would give us an advantage in combat.

>>382658
Yes but she isn't offering that right now. That potentially comes later. After we complete the quest.

>>382662
I quest I would like to remind we haven't even accepted yet.

>>382672
Speaking of which you voted for
>Sure and bring Akitani correct? if so are we okay with that?

>>382662
It was her initial offer.
She might still allow us to transform.

>>382677
Yep i'm still with that choice.

>>382678
Yes turning into a monster was an option to fix our legs. But she wasn't just straight going "Hey you want to be a monster kid." She said she that it was a possibility. But I think we are past that. There is a quest for us to accept or not accept.

>>382689
We could accept the quest as well as turn into a monster.

>>382692
We cannot currently turn into a monster. We know that she can turn us into a monster, but she is not offering us that choice as of now. Furthermore if we did turn into a monster, which is a bad idea, we would have no reason to help Yaga.
Again let me reiterate we are currently making a choice. Accept this quest and get a reward later which should help us will our legs or don't take the quest and continue to have non-functioning legs.

>>382700
Alright.

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>>382678

“I’ll do it,hopefully” You say to Yaga. and I want “Akitani to come with me. The rest will be in your care.” And you better take good care of them, Or so help me when I get back-” “Yes I know, your friends are most precious to you. Since you are doing a matter that I consider important I will treat your friends with the utmost care although, they may have to help me with the chickens. “Grosssssss.” Adrian and Yuki both say. “I promise this night to be peaceful so you may rest.” Sure easy for her to say. Turns out this place had a full guest room, or at least if it didn’t before it did now. Yaga really must be a powerful witch.

“This is bullshit” Victoria is quite upset. “I say, expecting us to l stay here while the lovers are out on an adventure.” Anna is equally upset. “L-L-L-L-LOVERS????” Akitani is deep red and panicking in embarrassment. “Calm down you guys, we are just going to take care of this and I will hopefully, get my legs back.” “Just don’t get too distracted” Yuki shoots at you. “Yuki, not you too.” she is pouting. Great. “Lovers, I had only hoped… no, it is just hoped… she is still confused…..what do I do.” Aki is still panicking in the corner. You place your hand on her shoulder, “Aki don’t worry, all you have to do is calm down. Breathe with me.” You do a set of breaths to help her relax. She sits down. “Thank you for that , what shall we do about tomorrow?” All we can do is attempt the errand. Hopefully, we don’t have too much trouble.” “I sure hope so.” Aki is always the worry-wart.

The night itself was fairly peaceful, you had everyone take turns at watch, just in case but everything passed without issue. The morning came and with it Yaga. “Young ones!” she bursts into your room “AHHHHHH!” Adrian yells in surprise. Time to shove off you. “But we just got here!” Adrian says. “Not you,” you shut him down. Aki grabs you and carries you with her to Yaga. The task I want you to do is simple retrieve something called a sun orb from a man named Baeloric in the accursed lands. He and I know each other so you should have no problem breaking the ice. I wish you luck and hopefully, I will see you soon.” She says while almost shooing you off. “Wait so we don’t get any more than that?” “Ohh yeah, Baeloric is in a place called the “The Rising Flame” that should help.” “I guess.” Now off with you!” The next think you knew you and Aki were outside the hut. Huh

>Get going to accursed lands
>Wait a minute (write in)

>>382808
Ask her for directions.

>>382808
Ask her for directions. And see if she has anything that will protect us from the whole monster at night thing. Along with asking for some food and general supplies to help with the trip.

>>382821
>>382824

“Wait a minute. YAGA!” “WHAT?! She yells poking her head out of the hut. “Could we at least get some directions and maybe something to help us with the whole monsters at night part.” Oh, well why didn’t you say so?” She says calmly” “You didn’t give us a chan-” “Here you are here you are, The place you are looking for is to the north-west and it is near one of the volcanoes. Also here are a few small charms I made, they should protect you from the more vicious monsters at night.” “Should?” you ask. “Should.” she reaffirms. You grabbed the group food you guys had before coming to Yaga's as she seemed to be more than willing to feed everyone. It seems the rest you'll have to figure out.

>>382860
I guess we head out now. Following her directions. Being careful and on guard of course. Don't want to be jumped by what ever the hells is in the Accursed lands.

>>382871
roll a flat d20

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>382905

>>382907

You and Aki are bewildered but begin your journey regardless. She is carrying you on her back and despite the treacherous journey, you are about to go on gives a small chuckle. “What's wrong?” you ask. “Isn’t something like this couples do on dates when alone? hehe,” “Quiet you," embarrassed at your situation you softly hit her on the head.

The plains before you were black. Almost like the Ashlands in the south, but even less hospitable. Black clouds and tall mountains were in the distance. Some of them seemed to reach far beyond the clouds as if they were spires. Volcanoes dotted the mountain landscape, but none of them seemed too active at the moment.

You are keeping watch as Aki moves forward to wherever this Rising Flame place is when you hear something moving beneath the ground near you. A mound is forming in the black land, 3 actually and they are heading toward you.

>Write in

>>382919
Can we tell how big the objects are?

>>382933
Also how fast they are moving?

>>382933
>>382936

They appear to be moving fairly slow, and they appear to be quite small.

>>382940
I say we attempt to walk/slither around them. If they start to follow us we shall attempt to talk to the mounds or what ever comes out of the mounds. We shall still be wary though, we are in a dangerous land

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>>382948

“Aki they don’t seem too threatening, try to just slip past them, but if they become more aggressive stop and we’ll try talking.” “Okay.” Aki slithers around the mounds that were coming for you and as luck will have it they didn’t seem to notice. You both look back behind you and confirm that they just continued to roll past you. You have no idea what those were, but if they didn’t bother you, you weren’t going to bother them. “At least we were safe from that,” You sigh “Safffffffeeee from what?” that wasn’t Aki’s voice. You turn to find two large black lamia’s staring at you. They seem to be upset with you who and are closing in.

>Write in

last post for the night, I'll be back at 6pm PST tomorrow

Also, I will likely make a new thread tomorrow. I will try to link it in this thread if it doesn't get archived while at work, but otherwise just look for the new thread around 6pm pst. I will post it on my twitter.

>>382975
Let us try to talk to the nice people. We are just travelers, we didn't know what was under the ground, just passing through, that sort of thing.

I forgot once again that I have DnD on Mondays at 7pm. Posting for an hour won't really get us anywhere so I will simply make a new thread at 6pm PST tomorrow.

>>385232
Attack the Dread Gazebo