Thread 6322706

ANTON PEAS: that’s your name, don’t wear it out! Originally a mild-mannered grilljockey, a botched demonic summoning brought you to ZORAL: a fantasy world shrouded in perpetual darkness!

You get used to it!

The memory loss and everyone trying to kill you? That’s the tricky part. See, your unexpected trip landed you in one Hell of a mess: not only did you lose a huge chunk of your memories, but you also forfeit your soul to RED--you don’t know the specifics, but essentially your summoning granted you some DEMONIC POWERS, so it’s not all bad!

What IS bad is what you’re up to now: your hellish helper can restore your memories, but he won’t do it for free! The price: delivering the heads of THE FOUR LORDS OF ZORAL: tyrants and titans that rule the darklands with iron fists, claws, and… you dunno, tentacles, maybe? There’s a reason they’ve ruled for so long, however, and despite your platoon of pals and plentiful powers you can’t help but feel a little apprehensive about the whole thing!

Exhibit A: ARCHMAGE TRIER. Arriving in UMBERAL: Zoral’s very own city of tomorrow, you were swiftly introduced to the TEKSOULS: menacing magitek that follow every whim Trier can think up… and you met the guy–he thinks a LOT!

Not to be outdone, you also ran into THE SPICE CARTEL--not only is Umberal their home turf, they’re also running some kind of deal with the Archmage… as for what it is, well, you shudder to think!

Your search for leverage over the Archmage took you to TRIMBAULT ACADEMY: Zoral’s most prestigious magical academy, and whole you managed to snag some goodies and teach a surprisingly-decent class (don’t ask), you didn’t manage to find notes other mages took on their Archmage adversary! Even worse, all signs point to The Cartel snatching them up for their own perfidious plots!

Luckily you had an in: TZAH-TZIE, skilled songstress and your current beau, has an axe to grind with her musical rival LUTZA. Having saved the starlet from a kidnapping on the Umberal Skyrail, you earned your way into holding a concert in Umberal, and some of the biggest names in The Cartel just happen to be huge fans!

You were just about to plot out the details at the glitzy CRYSTALMELT HOT SPRINGS LODGE when you ran smack-dab into The Cartel’s higher-ups… and the big cheese himself, VHALE NESSURMOS.

Did we mention he’s also your girlfriend’s husband? And that she freezes up like a clam on Pluto at the mere mention of his name?

Cornered by the Cartel, THIS is where your tale continues…

https://youtu.be/1lR8VLt1Xlk

>CONTD.

>>6322706 (OP)
Welcome to DARK QUEST! Leave your worries by the door with your shoes, ya’ ain’t gonna need ‘em! Socks optional!

>Archive link to catch up with the last thread:
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Dark%20Quest
>Pastebin for INVENTORY, SKILLS, and MORE:
https://pastebin.com/xdk5kHyA
>Character and Other Info compiled by everyone’s favorite fuzzball! https://pastebin.com/YKhP6xCt
>Twitter for updates, dumb art, etc.
https://x.com/DemBonez3

Rolls are handled by a 1(or more)d100--I take the BEST OF THREE ROLLS! 1’s are CRITFAILS while 100’s are CRITSUCCESSES! Certain boosts and maluses will be applied based on the situation and existing skills.

PLEASE ONLY 1 VOTE/ROLL PER PLAYER! If it’s exceptionally slow I’ll ask for people to roll again!

BEEP BEEP! NEW MECHANIC!!! Thank you to the brave anons that weighed in last thread to make it happen: BAD LUCK BALATRO: Every day you get ONE reroll on a LUCK-BASED ROLL (Bluffing, Acrobatics, Dodging... situations where BAD LUCK would make sense per the anon that suggested it! Swell idea, mac!) I will provide the prompt when appropriate!

Describing your actions, write-ins, and GENERAL CREATIVITY are all APPRECIATED AND REWARDED--we like to keep things LIGHT and CHILL here, so come on in and have some fun! FAN ART, THEORIES, AND CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK ARE ALL VERY MUCH APPRECIATED!

DISCLAIMER: THIS QUEST IS DARK. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED

“So,” He begins as if catching up with an old friend, “How’s my… blushing bride, hmm?”

An uncanny silence blankets Lutza’s suite as the question echoes in your skull, the words violently crashing against it as if they were trying to break out! Ever the professional, Joplin the Manager and one of Lutza’s Skog Bodyguards stand between the mafiosos and his managee–the former’s stern expression even stonier as the room’s tension becomes thick enough to taste!

Rolo and Sixface, however, remain bent in perfect bows, neither daring to speak over their boss.

And Vhale?

The Durher just stares you down, unblinking, his eyes deader than a shark’s. Borderline emotionless, but with a hint of amusement? You don’t sense ire in his gaze, you think, but you don’t sense much of anything, really.

That’s what worries you.
Though the mafia don is several heads shorter than you, the simple gesture sends a shiver down your spine as if you were staring down the barrel of a bootlegger’s shotgun…

With a hair trigger.

Vhale doesn’t repeat his question, but you get the burning sense that he isn’t going to let you go without an answer. But how do you respond to the man who nearly snuffed the whimsy out of Tzah-Tzie’s eyes? A monster so vile Tzah-Tzie forced herself to vomit all over to escape his… ‘touch’ on their expedited honeymoon?

How do you respond to Vhale Nessurmos: Cartel Kingpin, Ally to the Archmage, and breaker of spirits?

>She’s safe.
>What does he care?
>She’s upgraded, actually!
>He’s not getting her back.
>Spit in his face.
>Stay Silent! He’ll think you disappeared!
>Come closer and I’ll tell you.
>ATTACK!
>Write-In!

>>6322708
>She’s safe
I can't say I like him, but we can't kill him just yet. Not with Trier still around.

>>6322708
>She happy now, if you really care.
Some spite is appropriate.

Welcome back, QM!

>>6322708
>>6322744 +1

>>6322708
>She's actually happy now.
Spitepilled. Let spite fill your soul, Antard.

>>6322744
Hey gurl heeeeyyy~

>>6322744
>>6322761
>>6322767
>She's happy now, if you really care
>>6322721
>She's SAFE
Writing! Good to be back even if it was only a short amount of time

She’s happy now, you spit as you meet his dead gaze with a glare, if he cares, that is!

“No..” Shrugs the Durher as if you’d just asked him how hungry he was, “But I’ll admit my curiosity was piqued when I learned she didn’t become Makaar fodder or some bandit’s plaything…” Vhale cocks his head to the side. “She is my property, after all.”

Oh, you scoff with a derisive smile, is that what he thinks?

“It’s what I know.” The Durher answers in the same lackadaisical tone. “Her dear parents came crawling on their hands and knees to my father and I with the marriage certificate already stamped with their seal… practically threw her at me, really.”

Steel clinks at the Cartel Kingpin’s side as he crosses one leg over the other. “It matters not how many men she’s lifted her tail for–and I suspect that’s quite a number–but it’s the same principle as my blade, really: some knuckle-dragging invalid can swing it around all he wants. Drool on the hilt, rub it against his chin…”

It’s only now that you realize Vhale hasn’t blinked once since his unexpected arrival.

“But were they to make the assertion that my blade belongs to them, well…” A claw idly taps against the sword at his side with a rhythmic ‘tink’, “That would be a very, very ill-informed idea indeed.”

Vhale’s gray eyes tremble briefly.

“... Drafty in here.”

The words scarcely leave the Kingpin’s lips before his subordinates spring into action!

“T-take my cloak, sir!”
“A-and my hat-”

Vhale neither looks at or acknowledges Rolo or Sixface as they scramble over to offer up to him their belongings. Rolo’s Mzz’goe’virr femme fatales, however, stand like gargoyles behind your chair, both wound up like homicidal Jack-In-The-Boxes waiting to pop!

“So!” The Durher announces with the faintest hint of levity in his droning voice, “Let’s talk. ’Anton.’”

You blink. About what? Vhale doesn’t.

“Your reward,” He replies as if it were the most obvious thing in the world, “For returning my stolen property, of course.” His head cocks to the side once more. “Surely you didn’t come all this way just to sample my limitless charm and legendary hospitality…”

His empty eyes briefly flick over to his cowed subordinates. “Or did you simply wish to embarrass my subordinates?” A few tsks leave Vhale’s lips as he dismissively shakes his head. “Letting a rampant arsonist like this wander Umberal unimpeded, Rolo? Sixface? Poor form indeed…”

The Durher known as Sixface averts her eyes as Vhale’s wander over to hers. “I’m accustomed to Rolo disappointing me, but I entrusted City Affairs to you… as a treat.”

“F-forgive me, boss, but–” Sixface stammers as an uncanny bulging occurs in her eyes as she stutters out an excuse, “B-but he… he’s been claimed by… y-you know…”

>CONTD.

>>6322847
Vhale yawns as his gaze shifts back onto you. “Is that right?” He leans forward to study what few features he can see. “That’s a shame.” He leans back as quickly as he shifted forward. “The Old Man’s grown a bit too comfortable claiming what’s ‘his’, it would seem…” A faint grin creeps onto Vhale’s dour face. “But that’s no concern of yours, is it? Anton~”

Look, you begin as you stare Vhale dead in the eyes, you didn’t come here to collect on some deranged ‘finder’s fee’, okay? So he can-

“I insist.” The Durher interjects, barely raising his tone. “I’m well aware that she’s here–your entourage was spotted long before you reached Crystalmelt.” An unnerving crackle comes from his shoulder. “Quite a few of you in your merry little band, aren’t there?”

Vhale leans forward in his seat once more. “But we will collect her. You and your friends will be on the next train out of Umberal by the time she suspects anything. The question is,” His voice hangs on the last word causing it to come out like a hiss, “What. Is. Yourrrr….” The Durher pauses for almost playful effect, “... Price?”

“B-boss…” Rolo mutters under his breath, “T-the Archmage’ll be pissed… a-and he bu-”

“Busted your toy Casino in Crossroads, I’m aware.” Purrs Vhale, his unblinking eyes not leaving yours. “My heart bleeds for you, Rolo… but when this transaction concludes, so too will our… disagreements.”

Your Poker face falters, if only for a moment. Is he seriously trying to bury the hatchet?

“So,” Vhale repeats, “How much is the whore worth, hm?”

What say ye? What is Tzah-Tzie worth?
>You want to know how to kill Trier.
>Bells. More bells than you’ll ever be able to spend.
>You want her to play a concert. With Lutza.
>You want a way back to your home plane.
>You’ll have to think about it.
>Fuck you.
>Fuck you.
>Write-In!

Whoops, forgot a few options that are less... dealy.
Inventory: https://pastebin.com/xdk5kHyA
>Reach into your BIISII'S BAG!
>Ask to use the bathroom!
>BLASTCAPS!
>Burn the floor and signal Oti!
>

>>6322849
Man, I don't wanna throw away this whole plan we had to kill Trier and have a cool fight...but it's definitely gonna happen if we make Vhale Flambeé

>>6322873
I'll say one thing and then shut up:
Toppel and a few other folks mentioned that Vhale doesn't die that easy..

>>6322873
But on the other hand telling him to fuck off is certainly an option too. Okay now I'll seriously shut it

>>6322874
The issue is that even if he did we wouldn't be able to do it.

>>6322871
Screw it,
>BISII BAG

>>6322849
>You want her to play a concert. With Lutza.
Gives us lots of time to plan a double-cross with our boo.

>>6322849
>Reach into your BIISII'S BAG!

>>6322849
>You want her to play a concert. With Lutza.
Let's not unleash the bag upon him just yet.. We must as well try to get something out of this.

>>6322883
>BIISII'S BAG
>>6323003
>>6323014
>CONCERT!
Will write tomorrow! Sorry, busy Friday!

The word he uses to address Tzah-Tzie slaps you in the face like a rotten fish. Your teeth clench. Fists ball up at your sides. Your temples heat up and a vein throbs on your forehead as every voice in your head tells… no, SCREAMS at you to wipe the smirk off of this asshole’s face with two handfuls of hellfire!

It’s more than he deserves… and yet you hesitate.

She has a name, you spit as you lean forward to meet Vhale’s stony gaze with one of your own, and she wants to play a concert with Lutza. That’s why you’re here in the first place!

Vhale doesn’t flinch at your request, nor does he seem too threatened by it. “Names are for those that warrant them.” He shrugs, leaning back as his eyes dance over to his subordinates. “A concert, hm?”

“Y-yes, sir…” For the first time in what feels like ages, Lutza speaks up from behind her bodyguard bulwark! “We began planning on the Skyrail--sh-she can play well an-”

Her first and last public performance…” Vhale sighs as the corner of his mouth curls up into a crooked grin, “Fitting.” His dull eyes jerk back over to yours. “So that’s it, is it? You gain nothing, she gets one last desperate gasp of freedom?”

That’s right, you nod, holding your Poker face together as best you can, and that’s that.

“And that’s that…” Vhale purrs as his claw clinks against his blade a few more times. “Send her up.”

Hastily rubbing at her eyes, Sixface leaps to her feet for another swift bow. “O-of course, boss!”

Hey, you begin as Sixface darts out the door, she doesn’t-

“She does.” The Kingpin interrupts as one of his fangs pokes out from between his lips, “Would you rather we keep it a surprise? That’s cold, Anton…” His gaze drifts over to Lutza once more. “Where and when do you intend to hold this… ‘bash’?”

“Tonight.” Answers Joplin, the Gnok Manager stealing a glance your way that almost says ‘just trust me’. “Here in Crystalmelt.”

“Interesting venue choice.” Remarks Vhale, claw still tinking away at his blade, “Why not have it at the estate?”

“For the sake of everyone’s privacy and safety we found it prudent to choose a more public area,” Joplin adds, earning a nod from his managee, “The crowds my client attracts tend to be rather large… and unruly, at times.”

Before you can discuss it further, you hear a pair of familiar pitter-pattering feet enter from the front of the suite! “LUTZA~” Chirps and all-too-familiar and chipper voice, “Better start practicing, beca-”

Skipping around the corner, Tzah-Tzie freezes up at the sight of Vhale, her words screeching to a halt in her throat with a violent choking noise! As the color and life drain from her features, the Kingpin takes a long, hard look at the girl as if inspecting her for damages.

>CONTD.

>>6323272
“Well, well, well…” He purrs, relishing the reaction he receives as he slowly rises from his chair, “She’s finally come home.”

Betrayal and confusion clouds Tzah-Tzie’s eyes as they frantically flit around the room in search of an exit… but despite the abject terror in her features, the girl doesn’t dare move… not even when Vhale closes the gap between the two and lifts her chin with a claw.

“So.” He remarks, his bride trembling as his hands begin to wander around her body, “Music, hm? You never showed me your singing voice.”

Tzah-Tzie’s on lockdown. No vitriol leaves her lips, no bites meet their mark… it’s as if she’s a completely different person–or an animal, rather. Trembling in place, she doesn’t respond or react to Vhale as he takes his time planting a kiss on her pursed lips.

“You’re nervous. Don’t worry–we’ll have lots of time to get… reaquainted.” Vhale’s sharklike eyes drift back over to you with an almost teasing glimmer. “Anton and I had a long talk… and he settled on quite the finder’s fee for your return.”

She doesn’t have to say anything to show her betrayal. As her eyes whip over to yours you see it plain as day: confusion. Anger. Despair.

And Vhale? He’s just lapping it all up.

You meet her gaze and mouth the words ‘trust me’, but you’re not sure if they hit their mark or not. Tzah-Tzie’s no fool, you know that better than anyone, but sometimes she’s almost too good of an actress…

“In return for Anton and company’s safe passage out of the city, you and Lutza will be playing at a concert tonight,” Vhale continues, earning an uneasy snigger from Rolo, “Here at Crystalmelt.” He makes a show of rubbing his chin in mock contemplation. “Think of it as… a going away party.”

TT doesn’t respond, but Vhale does. A sharp CRACK rings across the room as he brings his claw across her cheek! Lutza gasps. Joplin and her Skog bodyguard flinch. Rolo and his girls stand stoic. And you? All you can do is gnaw on your cheek to keep yourself from tackling the bastard to the ground…

“What do we say when someone does something nice for us?”

Tears begin to trickle down Tzah-Tzie’s trembling face. “... Thank you…” She stammers, her eyes burning into the floor. “Thank… you…”

“Good girl.” Giving her shivering head a pat, Vhale shifts his gaze back your way once again. “A deal’s a deal, Anton Peas.” He turns to face Joplin. “Tell the concierge what you need. We’ll foot the bill.”

The Gnok nods in silent assent as the Kingpin’s gaze falls upon a still-staken Lutza. “Break a leg, hm? This is my wife’s big night, after all…”

Vhale doesn’t even acknowledge Lutza’s wary nod as he takes the first few steps towards leaving the suite, but pauses.

>CONTD.

>>6323276
“Ah.” Turning to face the still-statuelike Tzah-Tzie, a sharp whistle escapes his lips prompting Rolo’s floozies to scoop your girl up in their arms!

“We’ll take care of her until ‘Showtime,” Explains Vhale as TT hangs limply in the Mzz’goe’virr girls’ grasp, “My mansion has plenty of quiet rooms to practice in.” That crooked smile creeps onto his face as he turns to face you. “Wouldn’t want her getting… distracted, now would we?”

For the briefest of moments Tzah-Tzie’s terror is replaced by something else… you can’t quite tell what it means, but her eyes meet yours as she changes. What could she mean?

“Was there anything else?” Mutters the Durher, eyes still unblinking as he lingers by the door. “Rolo, track down Six before we leave. You know how hungry they get.”

“Righto, boss…”

Anything else? This might be the last time you get to talk to Vhale or TT for a while…
>TT stays with you!
>If he even THINKS of hurting her…
>Him and Trier–what’s the connection?
>Trier’s not going to intervene, is he?
>What guarantee do you have that the cartel will stop hounding you?
>Fuck you, Vhale.
>Let’s shake on it.
>ATTACK!
>Write-In!

>>6323280
>Trier’s not going to intervene, is he?
We might as well get some info. I trust TT to know we've got a plan, anyway.

>>6323280
>TT stays with you!
He can have her back after the concert if he's still alive, which at this rate he will not be but until then, she stays with us and our friends. This is her last desperate gasp of freedom. THAT is the deal.

>>6323284
Knowing we have a plan is one thing, but leaving her in the clutches of her abusive husband is another.

>>6323291
Do you think he's going to accept that?

>>6323293
If he has the sort of mindset where he thinks we're being legit with this deal to begin with, why not? If he genuinely thinks we're trading TT to him, he might just think we want one last roll in the hay before she goes away, or to try to apologize.

And if he deosn't accept, I'm afraid we must flambe him.

>>6323294
I'm pretty sure he'd think we just want to find a way to escape with her. Even if he agreed he'd get a lot more guards on our tail.

>>6323296
I'm personally more confident of our ability to operate with his guards watching us than I am in leaving out chinchillathinge in his claws, alone and without back-up. He is exceedingly rapey.

>>6323297
That's cool but I still think he's not gonna let us. Plus, we kinda have to leave her alone when it's time for the showdown and we have to go somewhere else.

I get that you don't wanna leave TT alone but I really don't think that he will accept it or that it would make things better.

>>6323301
Then we cook him. That's my vote, anyway. We'll see what others do, but I won't vote to leave TT alone with her rapist and his goons. Blame the QM for getting me invested in her well-being.

I'ma keep this open a little longer and then roll for it!

>>6323280
>TT stays with you!
Ah, should've voted a while ago, was distracted. TT is with US.

>>6323533
Works for me!

>>6323284
>TRIER
>>6323289
>>6323533
>TT'S WITH YOU, BITCH
Writing!

Yea there is, actually! Taking a confident step towards the Durhers, you try not to smile as Tzah-Tzie glances up at you like a puppy being rescued from a well!

She’s staying with YOU.

She doesn’t even wait for permission before tackling your midsection and burying her damp face in your robes! By the time you feel her trembling head pressed against you, however, Rolo and his goonettes already have you in mangling range!

“Oh?” Vhale remarks as lazy amusement trickles into his tone, “What gave you that idea?”

YOU did, you reply, not even dignifying Rolo or his floozies with a glance as you hug Tzah-Tzie closer! How’s she supposed to rehearse if she’s locked up in a dungeon?! Just look at her–she’s terrified!

Vhale gives her about half a second of a glance. “I fail to see how that’s my problem. She’s getting her little concert, what does it matter if it’s good or not?”

TT is still trembling as you dare to take a step past the Mzz’goe’virr towards Vhale. They don’t stop you.

He has the rest of his sad, sad little life to torment her, you snarl, causing your favorite furball to peek up at you from her robe refuge, so you’re taking her off his hands til’ tonight!

By the time a sharp whistle leaves Rolo’s lips, his goons are already at your sides! Feeling a blade on each side of your face, you can’t help but let loose a sardonic laugh!

You don’t care how many goons tagged along on their little spa-date, you begin in a low, but angry tone… you’re taking her with you! And you’ll bulldoze any Spice-scented shovelhead that gets in your way!

You didn’t do too well in your High School Physics classes, but if the tension in the air was dense before, it’s definitely DOUBLE-DENSE now!

Rolo stands like a statue, face contorted as he waits for permission to tear you limb-from-limb! Following their boytoy’s cue, his girl’s blades sink deeper into your flesh! Lutza watches with reddening cheeks from her seat as Joplin and the Skog bodyguard prepare to throw down too!

And TT? She just squeezes you tighter.

Vhale, on the other hand, looks…

…Delighted?

You brace yourself for an attack that never comes–not from him, nor from his cronies, the latter clearly as befuddled by the outcome as you are!

“Bold, Anton…” Purrs the Kingpin with the faintest glimmer of a twinkle in his dead, unblinking eyes, “Refreshingly bold.” He jerks his head towards the suite’s exit, prompting his entourage to leave you where you stand.

“The whore is yours… for now.” He adds as Rolo’s glare burns a hole through your skull, “Enjoy her while you can.”

Vhale departs as abruptly as he arrived–no fanfare, no last-minute threats from his lackeys… just a Durher leaving the suite like he owned the place followed by his humbled henchmen.

>CONTD.

>>6323629
Even as the door shuts behind them, no one in the room dares to make a peep… until Tzah-Tzie breaks free of her spell and collapses into a sobbing mess at your feet.

“I’m… I’m sorry…”

Ten minutes later, TT is still inconsolable as she buries herself in Volka’s embrace. Lutza’s apology is swallowed up by the gang, but no one seems eager to accept it.

“That brute Rolo has a habit of accosting Ms. Lutza without an invite,” Joplin adds as the Tiito Triplets guard the door with renewed vigor, “I assumed your arrival would hasten his departure…” The Gnok’s steely gaze slips floorward. “... But nothing could have prepared us for… him.”

Oh, well that makes it all hunky-dory, then, you snarl! They couldn’t have given you a warning!? Not even a ‘Hey, watch out: SPICE CARTEL’S HERE!’?!

“P-please, Anton…” Lutza pleads, lip trembling as Joplin opens his mouth to retort, “If you have to blame anyone, blame me–I made the call. Not Joplin.”

“So we should roast you then?” Rezzie remarks, idly picking between her teeth with a claw, “Just say the word, Anton.”

You nearly take her up on the offer–seeing TT bawling in Volka’s arms like this awakens a primal anger in the deep recesses of your gut. Not demonic, nor magical… just…

You.

“It’s unfortunate we couldn’t smuggle someone inside their manor… their eyes will be painted on us until the concert…” Morook begins, pausing as he realizes something in his speech. “E-erm, n-not to be grim, of course-”

“Let’s be realistic then: our enemies have no obligation to honor the agreement.” Oti interjects with the usual irritation in his tone, “This concert is our shield, and a flimsy one at that. The minute we step out of the public eye we’ll be dealt with.”

His eyes flicker as they fall upon you. “And if you still intend to infiltrate their home during the festivities, there’s no longer a guarantee that Trier’s… ‘interest’... in you will keep you safe.”

“AAAannd there’s no guarantee Vhale won’t gut you like a mudpoke at your next encounter.” Toppel helpfully adds.

“I… I mean I know he’s scary, but,” Volka begins, her voice softened so as not to disturb the Durher seeking refuge in her lap, “But what’s stopping Rezzie or Anton from, y’know… toasting him?”

“As I mentioned in our… first encounter...” Grumbles the sorceress with a sigh, “Vhale Nessurmos is… well, very difficult to kill, to put it bluntly.”

“Most crime lords are…” Replies Morook with a hint of cheekiness in his tone.

“I meant it literally.” Toppel adds with growing ire in her orange eyes. “I never had a lapse of judgement big enough to convince me to antagonize the man, but from what I’ve gathered here in Umberal, there have been attempts. Many attempts.”

>CONTD.

>>6323630
Her eyes sweep the suite like a camper telling a campfire ghost story. “Blades. Bombs. Swords. Sorcery. They say he was beset upon by a mob of mercenaries at a dinner party once–they waited until he imbibed some Vibertooth venom and descended upon him like a pack of Makaar…”

… And?

“And when the cries settled… only he remained.”

Fantastic, you growl, so you’ve got not one, but TWO assholes that refuse to die easily! Does anyone have any ideas that aren’t just ‘oooOOoh NO OnE EvER BEaT ThEmMmM!!!’?

Rezzie raises her claw almost immediately. You think. Stupid darkness. Yes, Rez?

“If this Val idiot stole the notes from this Tier moron, they probably don’t like each other, right?”

You open your mouth to respond, but your tongue gets tied! Y-yea, you reply with a slow nod, probably…

“So why don’t we just tell that dumb wizard guy that the dumb crime guy is trying to kill him?” The devil continues with a derisive sigh! “Rend two souls with one claw.”

That’s… is that what the saying is? Rezzie answers by crossing her arms and groaning. Guess so.

“It’s… not ideal,” Morook begins as he cautiously steps around Rezalith’s suggestion, “But she might have a point… we can’t do much until the concert without being watched… and that BOMB still needs to be retrieved…”

Right, the Anti-Magic Bomb you asked them to order… you totally forgot! Well, you sigh, none of this is ideal, but Rezzie has a point: if anyone would know what’s going on with Vhale, it’s him.

“But…” Volka mutters as she strokes the still-trembling TT, “H-he said he was going to send for you, r-right? If you bother him now, do you think he’ll…?”

You don’t know what he’ll do, you fire back, and frankly you don’t really care--a showdown with that deadeyed dick is inevitable and you wanna be ready for it when it happens!

Volka nods as she digests your answer. “Yea… yea, fair enough…”

“Whatever you intend to do, I’d suggest you do it now.” Joplin interjects with a polite cough. “They’ll be scheming, no doubt–that should give you some time before the concert. I’ll delay it as best I can as well.”

Jop, you begin in a softer tone, thanks. The Gnok nods.

“I, err…” Volka mutters, not daring to get up, “I should… I mean, I can stay here if-”

Before she can stammer out a response, the Spinner stirs in her lap with damp, reddened eyes and renewed determination on her face.

“I’ll be fine.”

TT, you begin as relief creeps into your tone, s-she doesn’t have t-

“I do.” She snaps as she peels herself out of Volka’s hug, “And I will. If there’s anything… ANYTHING I can do to help put that pompous prick in the ground any faster, I’ll do it!”

>CONTD.

>>6323632
Still sniffling as she strides over to where you stand, Tzah-Tzie stares up at you with big, emboldened eyes. “That… bastard can’t be allowed to survive the night, Anton… I won’t let him hurt anyone else ever again.”

Let me guess, you mutter as a wry grin slips onto your face: another ‘Tzah-Tzie Guarantee’?

She wipes the wetness from her eyes and matches your smile. “Damn right it is!”

Giving the girl a nod, you can almost feel something scraping at the back of your mind… a faint, simple word on repeat:

”sOoN…”

You get the feeling you won’t be waiting long to chat with the Archmage… good. You could use his input. Until then, however, what’s the next step?

CHOOSE ONE:
>Speak to someone in the gang! (Who?)
>Talk shop with Lutza and Joplin about the concert!
>Travel somewhere else in Umberal! (Destinations provided if voted for!)
>See if anyone here can train you while you have some downtime! (COMBAT? MAGIC? STEALTH? DIPLOMACY?)
>Investigate that mental itch NOW rather than later…
>Write-In!

>>6323633
>Talk shop with Lutza and Joplin about the concert!
If I remember exactly, a spicy stole the immortality secrets right? It's clear they're doing something. Maybe we can get Trier to take out the bastard. Then we blow him up. Actually, if we had the bomb already I'd blow both of them up. At once. But we don't...

>>6323636
The Cartel seems to have stolen the notes compiled on Trier by the Trimbault Academy Mages, yea... secret to immortality? Maybe not. Stuff that could probably waste the Archmage? Maybeeeeee~

You also recall that there's definitely some kind of deal between Trier and The Cartel: The Cartel provides bodies, living or otherwise, and in return they get... something.

>>6323640
Well, it don't matter why they want it so long as we can convince the schizophrenic technolich that they're up to no good and that he should kill them.

>>6323640
It sort of counts. Trier's secret to immortality is not being destroyed by whatever the notes say can waste him.

>>6323636
+1, let's make this count. I like your plan, anon, but also
>Talk shop with Lutza and Joplin about the concert!
we can't let Vhale ruin TT's big comeback grudge match mega-concert. he's caused her enough pain, and this was a big deal for her.

>>6323633
>Talk shop with Lutza and Joplin about the concert!
Total Vhale Death.

>>6322706 (OP)
Woooooooo we are so back!

>>6323636
>>6323654
>>6323657
>CONCERT TALK!
Writing!
>>6323741
Hell yea we are, questie

Letting the ominous warnings in your head slip for the time being, you focus your attention towards something you HAVE some semblance of control over:

The concert!

“I’ve already spoken to the staff here at Crystalmelt,” Joplin begins with a twinkle in his steely eyes! “There should be no problems holding the event here tonight, especially with the… financial aid we’ve been granted.”

W-wait, you sputter, how did he talk to them already?! We just finished meeting wi-

“Magic.”

Oh, right, he can do that ‘Mind Talk’ thing… okay, you shrug, so that’s one detail settled, but-

“The performance will be held on the roof to discourage attacks and… eager fans. The Triplets have already informed me of an escape route from the roof to the hot springs in case of fires or other emergencies–it should suffice for our purposes. My contacts here in Umberal coupled with Cartel word of mouth should provide adequate advertising,” He continues, turning to his client and earning a nod. “And for added chaos we’ve opted to waive any kind of ticket fee.”

Tzah-Tzie’s damp face widens into a manic grin! “Th-the whole CITY’S gonna be here! It’s gonna be a MADHOUSE, Ant!”

And… that’s okay with Lutza, right? The starlet answers with an extra-saccharine smile!

“The Cartel offered to foot the bill–it’d be rude not to accept their hospitality~” Her smirk stiffens. “Vhale’s… Captain... receiving the same punishment will be more than enough of a payment.”

The realization hits like the final piece slipping into place on a jigsaw puzzle. Something about her dumb contract forbids Lutza from speaking about it, but the answer is clear as day:

She wants ROLO dead too. Fine by you…

“It goes without saying, but if you intend to handle any unfinished business I’d budget yourselves some time to return here before sundown.” Joplin adds, earning a few murmurs of assent from your team. “The city’s Speakstones announce every hour, so it shouldn’t be an issue.”

“As for the setlist,” Lutza purrs, eyes lighting up with naked anticipation, “I’ll start with a few of my ‘not-as-popular’ ballads to get the crowd warmed up… that’ll get them to stick around for the good stuff!”

Time’s of the essence, you explain, so the longer they can keep everyone entertained, the better!

“Oh, I think we can make that work…” Giggles Lutza from her seat! “A few technical difficulties before showtime, a few short speeches–” Her eyes light up with almost Tzah-Tzie-esque mischief! “... Maybe a few words from Vhale himself…”

“Prick’s about as social as a Bull Makaar,” TT spits, “But he’ll jump at any opportunity to make himself seem bigger than everyone else…”

>CONTD.

>>6323825
And it’ll ensure he’s onstage while you snoop around in his house, you add with a smile! You’ll definitely think about it…

“As for, erm… your entrance…” Lutza adds, uncertain eyes drifting over to Tzah-Tzie, “We… we don’t have to do this now, Tzah-Tzie… especially with the Cartel an-”

“Pfft, backing out on me already?” The Spinner laughs, earning an embarrassed grin from her opponent, “Not on your life, sister–I’m gonna school your butt in front of the whole city… Cartel and all!”

“I was hoping you’d say that…” Lutza nods with renewed flame in her eyes! “You can make your grand debut when the crowd calls for an encore… I trust you can improvise for a song or two?”

“Tch, I eat improvisation for breakfast!”

You can’t help but smile at TT’s renewed pep–all the more reason to put the guy who makes her so damn upset on ice! Which reminds you…

Vhale.

“We… should probably operate under the assumption that he won’t stay for the whole thing,” TT begins, a faint tremble in her voice. “And that he’ll assume we’re up to something.”

“Your friends were right before,” Lutza agrees as she casts a sympathetic gaze over to Tzah-Tzie, “There’s something protecting him… and it may very well have to do with The Archmage…”

Then you’ll just have to ask him, won’t you? Silence falls over the room as your rhetorical question falls flat! And hey, you add, maybe you can even get him to kill Vhale FOR you!

“That’s…” Oti begins as he slips into the conversation, “Very unlikely, but…”

“But you can bet his Teksouls’ll be there,” Tzah-Tzie remarks, face scrunched up in thought. “So if you COULD somehow put a splinter between them, well…”

Dude was crackling and croaking on repeat about how much he loves Umberal, you shrug, so if you can play on that, well…

“It goes without saying, Mr. Peas,” Begins Joplin with another polite cough, “But I want you to know that whatever happens, on my name, honor, and integrity as a manager, we won’t allow anyone to lay a finger on Ms. Tzah-Tzie.” He punctuates his declaration with a bow.

If all goes well, you reply with a reassuring smile, he won’t have to worry about that at all!

“Anything else we should clear up while we can?” Lutza asks, prompting TT to look your way too. “It’ll be hard to reach us when we’re performing, so…”

Is there?
>What’s the plan for after the performance?
>You wanna adjust something.
>You wanna know exactly what security’s plan is!
>Who should you talk to if something goes awry?
>Nope, sounds good to you!
>Write-In!

>>6323826
>Nope, sounds good to you!
I can't think of anything at least.

>>6323826
>What’s the plan for after the performance?
I sort of suspect we'll be making hasty exists, so we should know where to regroup. Volkir's old pad again?

What I'm thinking is we find the notes, read them, leak them to a Teksoul and say some cartel guy dropped them, and that might be enough for Trier to attack the concert.

>>6323836
+1

>>6323826
>>6323836 +1

>>6323831
>NOPE
>>6323836
>>6323859
>>6323951
>AFTER?
Writing! Expect delays, feeling like hot garbo today

There is one thing, you answer with a touch of uncertainty creeping into your tone. Suppose we need to beat a hasty retreat–

“As I mentioned before, the roof has an Escape Route-”

No, totally, you interrupt with an apologetic laugh, but you mean, like… AFTER. Even assuming everything goes peachy with the concert, you’ll probably need a quick route out of town… or at least a place to hunker down!

“Ant’s right,” TT adds with a small groan, “Ritzy as this place is, it won’t stop an army of crazed fans…” She blinks. “Oh. Or Spicys… Or Teksouls.”

“I’ve already arranged for a few safehouses scattered around Umberal,” Joplin answers with a fraction of a shrug. “Comes with the territory. Leaving Umberal, however, is another story-”

“WAIT!”

Lutza’s soft-as-the-seaside voice jumps to an alarming volume that spooks everyone in the vicinity! She, however, looks happier than a clam in a… clam resort? Whatever, she looks excited!

“Rolo, he…” She stammers, her face scrunching up at the sound of his name, “He didn’t take a train to Umberal…”

Yea, you snort, the thing woulda’ buckled under his weight if he did! Up top!

“You’re right,” Mutters Joplin as Tzah-Tzie slaps you some palm, “He wouldn’t stop bragging about his ‘Flying Machine’... called it ‘tip-top’ and wouldn’t stop gushing about how comfy the beds were…”

“Wha-wha-WHAAA!?” Sputter TT, eyes wider than a Chytree’s, “D-did you say a ‘FLYING MACHINE!?’”

What SHE said! Is it here!? Here in Umberal!?!

“Oh it’s here alright…” Murmurs the musician as she shuffles around awkwardly in her seat, “Docked and moored at the Nessurmos Estate. Rolo’s been too paranoid to sleep anywhere else. It would certainly explain how he arrived so swiftly.” Her jade eyes flicker with mischief! “If we could get our claws on it we’d be out of Umberal long before anyone could catch us…”

“Not to mention ruin that bastard’s day a second time…” Purrs TT, not even trying to hide her enthusiasm! “Oh… but how does it work? Any ideas?”

Lutza answers with a befuddled grin. “Wish I knew… but it was built in Umberal and if flies. It’s gotta be magical…”

“As excited as you may be by the prospect of adding the theft of an extremely high-profile vehicle to your grand escape, Miss Lutza, I would highly advise weighing other options as well.” Joplin replies, earning a round of annoyed groans for his trouble!

“They’ll pause Skyrail transit, I can almost guarantee it, but there are maintenance trains that won’t be hindered…” His brow furrows as he weighs your limited options. “Worst case scenario I know a back alley telemage or two. They could get us out of the city for the right amount of bells.”

>CONTD.

>>6324286
We don’t need to figure it out now, you add, still totally out of your depth, but if they need a place to lay low you’ve been given free reign over an apartment in the city–one with some pretty decent magical wards, you think!

“... You think?” Lutza asks, the look on her face clearly not inspired.

Yea, you nod, Volka’s dad put ‘em together and he’s… well, he’s really old, but knows his magic! TT, where’s the address again?

As Tzah-Tzie relays the info to the starlet she spent whole threads threatening to annihilate, you turn your thoughts to other, less-green pastures… and even those are put on hold when you hear a demure knock on the door to the suite followed by a less-than-demure appearance by the Tiito Triplets!

“Z’Crystalmelt Staff, Miss Lutza!”
“Askin’ fer’ Mister Peas, Miss Lutza!”
“Says he’s bein’ called to the lobby, Miss Lutza!”

“Thank you, boys.” The Durher replies, putting goofy grins on each of the Skog’s faces! “Leave Tzah-Tzie with me, Anton. I’ll keep her close.”

“H-hey, I’m no princess, alright?” Stammers the Spinner as she swoops in and wraps her noodly arms around your waist! “And as for you:”

Climbing your trunk like a lovestruck squirrel, TT plants a big, warm kiss on your lips… and a few more for good measure! It’s only after you run your fingers through her hair and tickle her ears a bit that she begrudgingly pulls away!

“Guess our Umberal date might have to wait…” She sighs, gently caressing your cheek. “...Don’t pull any punches tonight, okay?” She requests, a mixture of worry and longing lingering in her lime-green eyes! “I want us to be able to laugh and boast about whatever happens tonight…” Her cheeks get a few shades redder as her bashful eyes fall groundward. “... for years to come…”

Any last remarks to TT? Or anyone else?
>You promise!
>She needs to be careful tonight!
>Knock ‘em dead at the concert!
>Write-In!

This meeting might take a while… Who will lead the Bomb Pickup Squad?
>Volka!
>Morook!
>Rezzie!
>Oti!
>Toppel!

>>6324287
>Knock ‘em dead at the concert!
You gotta win.
>Morook!
He's the one that promised the payment for the guy right?

>>6324287
>Knock ‘em dead at the concert!
>Morook!

>>6324287
>Knock ‘em dead at the concert!
>Morook!
He's literally the only ine with a healthy sense of caution and tact... No offence to Volka, who wiuld be great if we were going loud.

>>6324294
>>6324379
>>6324401
>KNOCK'EM DEAD!
>MOR!
Writiiiiiiiiiiing!
>>6324401
>Implying Rezzie isn't THE BEST at, among many, MANY other things, CAUTION and TACT

You give your favorite fuzzball another tender peck on the lips before answering with a reassuring smile. Don’t worry about you, you add as you squeeze the girl’s small shoulders, just worry about knocking ‘em dead at the concert tonight! Give these Umberal punks a night to remember!

THAT makes her smile. “Oh you know I will… and… and I know it’s dumb, and selfish, and impossible, but…” A nervous giggle leaves her lips as her grin droops. “... I wish you could be there to watch me…”

You give her hair a playful tousle! Just keep playing, okay? You’ll make it to the encore! Her eyes shine like emeralds at your vow, lips trembling as she nods in assent!

“Y’know… you’re just crazy enough for me to believe that…” Gulping down the lump welling up in her throat, the Durher wipes her damp eyes on your robe and plants one last smooch on your cheek before disembarking!

“I’ll be looking for your eyes in the crowd, Ant…” She adds as a forlorn, but soothing smile forms on her face, “I’ll spot ‘em… I mean it!”

You never had a doubt in your mind… giving her hair another tousle, you bow in thanks to both Lutza and Joplin. Take care of this one, you add with a laugh in your voice, she can be quite the handful!

“Tch, never heard you complain…” Grumbles TT with a wry grin.

“I’ve forged a career wrangling… ‘problem cases’...” Adds Joplin with a rare twinkle in his eye, “Consider it an occupational hazard.”

“I’ll keep an eye on her too, don’t worry!” Giggles Lutza as she crosses over to her rival and wraps an arm around her shoulder! “Just call me ‘Big Sis’!”

“H-hey…” Stammers your team Spinner with a fresh blush on her face, “W-we’re still enemies, y’know…”

Leaving them to their rehearsal, you make your way over to the rest of the team as they put their planning on hold! Mor, you begin, he knows where to pick up the bomb, right?

“Aye, cap’n.”

… He uh… he doesn’t need to call you that… The Chytree’s eyes dull.

“Understood, cap’n.”

… Is he comfortable leading the team to pick it up?

“Perfectly, Anton.” He replies in a tone that could either mean confidence or just the usual Chytree drone, “The Spicys got off easy last time… any more underhanded tricks and the Teksouls’ll be scraping their remains off the street.”

“FINALLY!!!”

You try not to smile at Rezalith’s outburst. And fail. Good man! You move to give the Ranger a pat on the shoulder, but a claw intercepts your hand and grips it tight!

“You do realize,” He adds, voice low and eyes glowing with fresh excitement, “That pulling this off will shake Zoral by its very foundations?”

You answer him with a smile as you squeeze his claw right back! That’s the plan!

>CONTD.

>>6324443
“Viisla favors the cautious,” Morook drones with flickering eyes, “But they have a soft spot for the bold, too.” He lets your hand go with a steadfast nod. “Good hunting, Anton. Shall we meet at the safehouse before the concert?”

Good call! No sense in playing your hand too early… and there’s no telling how long this meeting will go.

Speaking of, you leave the rest of the crew with a wink as the Tiito Triplets open the door to the suite for you.

“Tusks forward an’ head high, Mister Peas!”
“Leave the worryin’ ta’ us, Mister Peas!”
“Ain’t no one gettin’ their claws on Miss Tzie, Mister Peas!”

Thanking the boys as you exit the suite, you meet the Lodge Staffer with renewed confidence in your step and pride on your face… to which they’re pretty indifferent, unfortunately.

“P-please… th-this way, Mr. Anton…”

You don’t need to be that alcoholic sleuth you’re not supposed to serve at work to realize something’s rattled this staff member, and when you follow them down to the lobby it doesn’t take you long to understand why!

”TARgeT IDeNTIfIED…”

The declaration comes in triplicate, albeit spoken in different cadence and pitch by the Teksoul trio lingering in the lobby. Bracing yourself for an attack that never comes, it takes you a moment to let your guard down! Errr, yea, that’s you…

The constructs’ unseen limbs form a barrier around you like a very confused python… a dull tingle forms in your teeth as you sense magic seeping from their ever-glowing eyes!

”STanD BY foR TRaNSPOrtaTION… DO. NoT. MOve.”

A few days ago you would have been rattled by teleportation’s roller coaster-esque jerk, but now?

Now it’s just Tuesday.

… Is it Tuesday? What day is it in Zora-

PERSPECTIVE CHOICE: WHO’S UP NEXT?
>ANTON!
>MOROOK!
>WRITE-IN! JUST KIDDING, THOSE TWO ARE YOUR ONLY CHOICES! DON’T PICK THIS OPTION I SWEAR TO GOD YOU GUYS

>>6324444
>MOROOK!
M-Dawg's time to shine.

>>6324444
>WRITE-IN! JUST KIDDING, THOSE TWO ARE YOUR ONLY CHOICES! DON’T PICK THIS OPTION I SWEAR TO GOD YOU GUYS
:)

>>6324459
That's it quest over I've had it up to here with your shenanigans

>>6324444
>WRITE-IN! JUST KIDDING, THOSE TWO ARE YOUR ONLY CHOICES! DON’T PICK THIS OPTION I SWEAR TO GOD YOU GUYS
This quest needs to end right here, I have too many stuff I've been putting off to read and if I don't have any new stuff I might start getting my backlog done.

>>6324444
>MOROOK!

>>6324444
>WRITE-IN! JUST KIDDING, THOSE TWO ARE YOUR ONLY CHOICES! DON’T PICK THIS OPTION I SWEAR TO GOD YOU GUYS
Dembones

>MOROOK!

>>6324457
>>6324514
>>6324638
>MOROOOOOOOOKKK!!!!
>>6324459
>>6324512
>END THIS FARCE ALREADY PLEASE QM
>>6324638
>DEMBONES

DEMBONES: that's you! Your shoulders creak and your eyes burn as you struggle to shake the sleep off of your gnarled, wretched form. Licking your chapped lips, you dump the lukewarm remnants of your coffee thermos down your parched throat in a vain attempt to fill the void in your core with something... ANYTHI

Okay okay let's just roll with Morook. Writing!

>>6324727
Your boots splash through icy puddles as you lead the way through Umberal’s labyrinth of winding alleys and crowded thoroughfares. You’re MOROOK, of course, and you don’t think you’ll ever get used to a place like this.

‘City of Tomorrow’? You hope not…

With Anton off to meet the Archmage, you thought it prudent to check in on your ‘order’--the sooner you can get off the streets the better, you think as your trek leads you to the canals–the roar of yachts and clanking of colossal machines dipping their cold appendages into it like River Friilkas doing little to soothe your unease.

Your foes took you by surprise before–this time they won’t be so lucky. The plan, as it was before, is simple:

Find the bomb. Take the bomb. Bring the bomb to the safehouse. One, two, three.

Easier said than done, however–as if the city clamor wasn’t enough, the magical contamination is nigh-overwhelming here in Umberal… and though you can’t use magic you can’t help but feel the arcane weight in the air around you press down on your shoulders and make your head heavier! If this is how you feel, then how does Oti manage it? Hells, what would Lila think?

… There’s probably a reason you don’t see any Veeti in these cold, cold streets, but you’d be lying if you said you wouldn’t appreciate her company.

For all the wonders Umberal holds, there’s no shaking it from your mind:

Something is profoundly wrong with this place!

It matters not. You’ve a job to perform, and you don't make a habit of betraying expectations! Come sorcerers or Spicys, you’ll be ready for them all–Umberal’s a lot less frightening when you liken it to a jungle…

Who did you bring with you anyways? Did you opt for a smaller, quieter group, or did you prepare for WAR?

CHOOSE ZERO OR MORE!
>Volka
>Rezalith
>Toppel
>Oti
>Obber

>>6324775
>Volka
>Rezalith
Gotta take Volka, and we can't trust the other ones to trust Rezdawg

>>6324776
Toppel trusts Rezzie... she trusts Rezzie hard...

>>6324779
Toppel has an restraining order and is not allowed to be within 100 meters of Rezzie.

>>6324775
>Volka
>Rezalith
Partly because I also do not trust Rezalith unsupervised.

>>6324776
>>6324945
>REZ-DAWG
>VOLKA-CHAN
Locked in! Will probably write the update tomorrow--feeling a bit under the weather for the last few days

With Anton off at his meeting and Tzah-Tzie prepping for her big debut, your squad choices were a bit more limited than before–not that you mind, of course. In any other situation you’d be operating solo, but after what happened earlier, well…

You can never be too careful, can you?

Volka trudges at your side with her thick tail swaying behind her and big yellow eyes darting after every person you pass. At first glance you’d assume she was 100% focused, but the way she grinds her teeth intermittently tells a different story. You might be of different ages and species, but you know Volka better than almost anyone…

And you know she only grinds her teeth when something’s on her mind. Something besides the task at hand.

Rezalith, on the other hand, skips a few feet ahead like a pet Makaar being taken out for a hunt! She’s even humming a tune, too!

“Kiiiillliiiing! Kiiiiilliiing! Gouging, stabbing and kiiiiilllliiiing~”

Rezzie, you groan, do you really have to ask her again? The demon sends a glare your way that could freeze magma!

“Tch… fine, FAT EYES…” Her skip turns into a dull trot as her sunny expression darkens. “ANTON would’ve let me sing the song…”

You hate to break it to her, you mutter, but you aren’t him.

“Yea. NOTED.”

“Rezzie…” Volka chides in a motherly tone, promptly defusing the feisty fiend. “Where we headed again, Mor?”

SOUTHWESTERN SNOWMELT CANALWORKS OFFICE, you recite, just like you’d been doing over and over in your head the whole afternoon, in some tool shed around the corner.

“Right, right… yea…” The Skog nods, biting her lip in quiet assent. “Tool shed…”

The Buumot bumps and grooves carved into the road at your feet tell you you’re on the right track–you just hope Obber The Machinist has already dropped off the hardware by the time you arrive.

… Funny how many Gnoks are named Obber, now that you think about it.

What do on the way to the office?
>Check in with Volka!
>Try to talk to Rezzie!
>Double-check your Slinger.
>Listen to the world around you!
>Just keep walking and stay sharp…
>Write-In!

>>6325284
>Listen to the world around you!
Gotta be careful.

>>6325284
>Just keep walking and stay sharp…

>>6325290
>STAY A WHILE AND LISTEN!
>>6325293
>KEEP WALKING!
Fuck it we'll blend 'em together. My bad for making them so similar!

>Roll me 1d100((+5 Devil Senses, +4 Ranger Senses, -7 AUUUUGGHH CITIIIIIEEESSSS!) to see what your Chytree senses can sense! Best of 3!

Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>6325429

Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>6325429

>>6325431
>>6325451
Ha, do I hear one more 24?

Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>6325429

>>6325537
Awww so close to a triple

>>6325538
And no better for us either way. Poor Team Morvolkalith.

>>6325431
>>6325451
>>6325537
>HIGHEST ROLL: 26!
Welp time to kill Morook, Volka, and Rezalith. Will write this up tomorrow--sorry for the slow updates. Think I'm not sick though, so that's a relief!

>>6325550
RIP, half the main cast. :(

In moments of unease like this, you fall back on your old standby: letting nature speak. Try as you might, however, you can’t quite seem to find the right ‘frequency’. What normally comes easily to you in the wilds, and what you could even manage in certain parts of Crossroads, seems outright impossible even on the canal’s rim…

Too much noise, you think as you struggle to drown it out with your own thoughts, just too much noise…

“Alright there, Mor?” Volka asks, breaking from her own wariness for a moment to offer you a reassuring smile! “Constipated?”

You’re fine, you reply, waving her off with your tone of voice, just… keep sharp, okay?

“Righto…”

You’re not fine, actually, but you don’t bother relaying that to your scaly sibling. It’s not the clanks and hisses and groans and chatter that picks away at your head like a miner’s chisel, no… it’s the perpetual feeling of precariousness you can’t shake from your head that’s been following you ever since you arrived in this wretched burg!

It’s like standing on the edge of a vast pit… or showing up uninvited to a funeral. It’s grim and foreboding enough without the sense that you don’t quite belong, and the feeling’s only grown since you arrived.

Continuing along the canal, you silently hope whatever Anton does gets you out of Umberal. The sooner the better!

To your surprise–and concern–the front of the CANALWORKS OFFICE is remarkably quieter than the rest of your stroll–nestled at the back-end of a short alleyway, the office is located in what seems to be a small cul-de-sac along with a Shipping Guild Office and some nondescript warehouse. Nothing out of the ordinary for a Crossroader.

“Tch…” Rezzie grumbles as she samples the air with a few sniffs, “Smells like mold and guts back here.”

… She’s mad about the guts? The demon shrugs.

“Makin’ me hungry…”

“Where’d, uh… where’d you say the stuff would be again, Mor?” Volka hisses as her eyes trace the building rooftops.

Round the back, you mutter as you switch out your city-stepping for your practiced ‘Ranger-Walk.’ Umberal might be kept sunny and clear through magical means, but you still make a point to step heel-first and far away from the many puddles dotting the ground. With each step you take, you take a moment to listen, but try as you might, well…

Yep, too much damned noise. Persistent, too.

Finding the building’s corner with your claw, you pause for a moment just to be safe… and when you hear nothing but the distant clank of a windmill on the roof and the toot of a canal skiff, y-

“AAAAAAUUUUUUUGH!”

For a fraction of a second you feel hot, panicked breath on your face that reeks of booze, meat, and poor dental care! By the time its owner stumbles backwards wide-eyed and mortified, you’ve already got your Slinger trained on where his heart should be!

>CONTD.

>>6325758
A Gnok, you swiftly realize, and a familiar one too!

“Obber?” Mutters Volka as she swiftly sheathes her blade, “W-weren’t you stuck in that trap in your workshop?”

The Machinist answers your sister with a wide-eyed stare! “The fuck ye’ onnabout!? I made the darned thing–I ken get meself out!” Scarcely do the words leave his lips before another thought arrives in his head–one that tinges his shock with anger!

“A-and what the HELLS d’ya think yer’ doin’, askin’ me ter’ come out here again!? I paid my part of the bargai–”

Hold on, you interject as calmly as you can, what does he mean ‘again’?

“Zackally what it sounds like ‘again’ means, again!’” He sputters in growing disbelief! “I dropped off the ‘toy’ like you asked me to, an’ I barely got back to the shop when ye come in an’ tell me ta’ pick it up an’ move it!” You hear something jingle near his cloak pocket. “So here I am movin’ it! Bright-eyed bastard…”

“H-hang on,” Volka stammers as her claw returns to her blade’s grip, “He did? Morook?”

“No! Some completely identically yeller-eyed Chytree that knew about our arrangement did!” Scoffs the Gnok with growing unease! “YES, HIM!”

You and Volka exchange a worried glance while Rezzie merely stands there with the usual frown. Look, you quietly begin, whoever came to him, it wasn’t you.

Obber looks ready to dispute that claim, but after searching your steely gaze for a moment, his anger gives way to something else…

Concern. Yep, that’s the one.

“Wh-” He grunts as his eyes flit around the alleyway, “Th-then..”

Silencing him with a sharp hiss, you cautiously turn around to find the alley bare behind you! Unsure of what the game is, you know one thing for certain: you probably have a moment or two before the puppet master realizes you know something’s up!

What do?
>Send Rezzie to scout!
>Run for the canal!
>Address whoever’s watching you… if there IS someone!
>Double back deeper into the alley Obber came from!
>Make a distraction!
>Write-In!

>>6325759
>Send Rezzie to scout!
GO GO GADGET DEMON THING

>>6325759
>Send Rezzie to scout!
REZZIE, LISTEN. LISTEN REZZIE. IF YOU GET HIM IN 15 MINUTES OR LESS, WE'LL LET YOU EAT **ALL** THE GUTS YOU WANT.

>>6325765
>WE'LL LET YOU EAT **ALL** THE GUTS YOU WANT
Damnit anon, now she's gonna be too full for dinner.

>>6325766
It's worth it, trust me, fifty million IQ play here.

>>6325767
It's not gonna be worth it when she spoils her appettite.

>>6325761
>>6325765
>REZZIIEEEEEEE
Yea guys I don't wanna railroad but Rezalith's totally gonna ruin her appetite and won't want ANY dinner

HERE GOES SOMETHING!
>Roll me 1d100-2 (+5 Devil Senses, +4 Ranger Senses, -4 Unideal Positioning, -2 Loud Obber, -5 They know how you work now) to see how Rezzie does! Best o' three!

Rolled 16 (1d100)

>>6325829
Roll

Rolled 98 - 2 (1d100 - 2)

>>6325829
I sincerely doubt Rezzie will ever, ever turn down the opportunity to eat someone.

>>6325870
The dice seem to agree.

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>6325829

>>6325833
>>6325870
>>6325884
Yea okay it looks like bribing Rezzie with treats works. Will write this bad boy up midday on Friday! Thanks for playing, all!

No time to think on it–you’re encased by buildings and there’s only one way back out to the canal! For the briefest of moments you sense a flicker of magic activating above you, and that’s all the info you need to make your move!

Rezalith, you bark in a firm, but hushed tone, can-

“Yea, yea… ‘Stay quiet, don’t touch anything’, blah blah bl-EEH?!”

You cut the diminutive devil’s regularly-scheduled sarcasm short by placing your claws on her shoulders! Rezalith, you repeat as your eyes lock with hers, can she check the rooftops for enemies?

“Y-yea…” She mutters, unsure how to respond.

And if they’re an enemy, you continue, eyes glowing brighter with every word, you want her to–

You’ve never seen Rezalith light up like she does at that moment, but when she does, well…

It’s almost endearing?

“S-say it…”

Eliminate them, you add with a hint of satisfaction in your voice! However she sees fit!

The girl freezes for a moment… her face frozen and her expression perplexed as she tries to puzzle out the obligatory catch in your request… but once she realizes there is none, well…

“Give ‘em Hell, Rez!”

Volka’s encouragement is all the permission she needs! Taking to the sky with a menacing cackle, the demon is immediately beset by a hail of the same sharp-edged Slinger Darts you nearly got acquainted with back on Smith Street!

“HELLS!” Sputters Obber as he slips behind Volka for cover, “They’re gonna tear her ta’ shreds up there!”

No, you reply with a smile in your voice, not exactly!

https://youtu.be/go_imOL6wgw
Rezalith’s taken to flying in the darkness rather well–twirling through the cloud of darts as gracefully as a barbwinged Shuuk, the demon dives towards one of the unseen shooters with menace in her eyes!

A panicked shriek rings out across the alleyway as you sense the shattering of a magical shield, followed by another sequence of wet, unintelligible cries and a few other noises you’d rather not describe! Showered by a gory mist, you dart further down the alley as a few darts embed themselves into the pavement at your feet!

“Think she can handle it by herself?” Volka asks as the sound of roaring flames rip across the rooftops followed by terse, foreign orders! Duuric, you think as you wind up your Slinger and load a few darts of your own, pity you never learned the language.

The language quirk Anton received when summoned could probably decipher what they’re saying, but you get the feeling it isn’t anything important. Still, there sounds like there’s an awful lot of them up there… and while some Snipers focus on the flying fiend, you know it’s only a matter of time before they draw a bead on you and the other landwalkers…

>>6326085
What do?
>Encourage Rezzie some more!
>Cover fire from below! Suppress the Snipers!
>Try to find a way up with Volka!
>Sibling Sling! Have Volka toss you to the rooftops!
>Escape in the chaos!
>Write-In!

>>6326086
>Sibling Sling! Have Volka toss you to the rooftops!

>>6326085
>Sibling Sling! Have Volka toss you to the rooftops!
TRUST IN THE FLOW.

>>6326086
>Sibling Sling! Have Volka toss you to the rooftops!

>>6326086
>Sibling Sling! Have Volka toss you to the rooftops!

>>6326088
>>6326089
>>6326162
>>6326166
>SUPER SIBLING SLING!

Damn, lookit that synergy! Can't promise a wealth of updates today given it's Spooky Time, but we'll see what we can do!
>Roll me 1d100+2 (+5 Volka Strength, +3 Snipers 'Suppressed', -4 Uncertain Landing, -2 Nasty Snipers) to see how you land! Best of 3!

Rolled 68 + 2 (1d100 + 2)

>>6326180

Rolled 30 + 2 (1d100 + 2)

>>6326180
AIEEEEEEEE

Rolled 69 + 2 (1d100 + 2)

>>6326180

>>6326192
>69
>on a sibling roll
What did the dice mean by this?

>>6326196
71, anon. For our sanity, it must be read as a 71.
oh god they're stepsiblings too

>>6326200
MOROOK ONII-CHAN I'M STUCK

>>6326181
>>6326182
>>6326192
>HIGHEST ROLL: 71!
... I go to buy some candy corn for one minute and I come back to DEGENERACY. You'd better all find a corner and think about what you've done while I write...

>>6326213
Are you telling me Morook doesn't hug his imouto? For shame...

>>6326221
Of course he hugs her, even Morook knows Volka gives the best hugs. She's like a twelve-foot scale-covered teddy bear

Rezalith’s a tough one–fast too–but you remember all too well what these Snipers were packing during your last dance! Another dart slamming into the floor next to your boot is all the proof you need to confirm what you already know: they’re dipped in BEDCAP. One prick from those will paralyze you for hours… and two or three will take down even the toughest Skog!

You’re not sure how many they’ll need for Rezzie, but you don’t plan on giving them a chance! Whipping your head around to your scale-clad sibling, the words come out of your mouth almost on instinct!

Volka! SIBLING STRIKE TWENTY-THREE!

The Skog’s eyes light up as if a spell was just broken! “RIGHT!”

Muscle memory kicks in as you curl into a ball while Obber watches in naked confusion! Before can ask or anyone can get shot, Volka lumbers over and scoops you into her empty hand before skidding around the corner and into the center of the fray!

Darts shower the ground around you both as Volka’s powerful legs pound across the paved road! Reaching terminal velocity just as a cackling Rezalith strafes another rooftop with Hellfire, you press your Slinger close to your chest and inhale as your sister brings her arm back like a catapult…

She skids to a halt. Always does. Your breath leaves your mouth just as you feel your body leave Volka’s arm, and with the grace of a Glaivehead carving through a Winter current you sail through the air and scan for targets!

The Snipers on the roof you’re headed towards are too busy trying to tag Volka to notice you–silly mistake for a pack of cold-blooded mobsters, but they won’t live to regret it. It’s a good thing you coiled your Slinger before your flight–while Volka pirouettes and weaves through the Slinger storm you aim your weapon at your first quarry…

‘SLLLUNK!’

The dart sails from your Slinger like a leaf on the wind–you filed the trigger down yourself, after all. Though you didn’t have time to coat your darts, it doesn’t matter much–your shot strikes true and…

Hm. Not quite. You weren’t wrong earlier–Rezalith’s flames definitely wreaked havoc on a few magical shields. Unfortunately for you your target wasn’t one of them! Nevertheless, your shot wasn’t totally meaningless–a burst of magical resonance tickles your jaws as you load another dart… and by the time you’ve spun your Slinger for another shot, you can hear your target struggling to contain their heavy breathing as they pick themselves back onto their feet!

‘SLUUUNK!’

They try to dodge, of course–even with the moss padding on your weapon it still makes a considerable bit of noise when firing–but you don’t go hunting without expecting the game to bolt. Your dart hits its mark a few strides away from where the Sniper began, and your reward is a pitiful yelp followed by one of your would-be assassins tumbling onto their face!

>CONTD.

>>6326242
You know this, of course, because you land right next to them. Your boots muffle your arrival, but the other Snipers are definitely on the alert now! A well-timed swoop from Rezalith, however, puts their search for you on hold–great timing, too, because you know all-too-well that Durher Snipers never work solo.

There’s a Spotter nearby, you’re certain of it!

Ducking behind some bulky machine, you spin your Slinger as quietly as you can before a peculiar noise rings out from the other side of your cover!

Gurgling. It’s weak, but still audible. The Durher’s dead, no doubt about that, but the shot wasn’t clean–if they keep making noise they’re bound to draw their partner.

The question is, do you shut them up now? The rules are the same here as they are in the wilds: Noise is death…

What do?
>Shoot them from cover. Quiet.
>Get close and finish them off with your Ankle Dagger.
>Let them gurgle. See if it’ll attract their Spotter.
>Throw something–try to lure another Durher into your sights!
>Write-In!

>>6326244
>Throw something–try to lure another Durher into your sights!

>>6326244
So much for "Lamplighters never kill," huh? Well, desperate circumstances...

>Throw something–try to lure another Durher into your sights!

>>6326265
Hohoho, Morook ain't a Lamplighter!

Also those are Rubber Darts, or something

>>6326267
Gurgling in his own blood? Uhh, no, Morook just sent him TO THE DUNGEON

>>6326244
>Throw something–try to lure another Durher into your sights!

>>6326244
>Throw something–try to lure another Durher into your sights!

>>6326250
>>6326265
>>6326410
>>6326415
>THROW SOMETHING!
>Roll me 1d100+3 (+5 Ranger Senses, +3 Snipers 'Suppressed', -2 Uncertain terrain, -3 Trained Snipers) to see how effective your trick is! Best of 3!
>>6326276
Morook sent that second-rate Sniper with a second-rate Slinger to the SHADOW REALM

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>6326479

Rolled 35 + 3 (1d100 + 3)

>>6326479
Watch and learn.

Rolled 39 + 3 (1d100 + 3)

>>6326479

That one anon who always pines for more failure must be having a blast, kek...

>>6326491
i am, thank you very much :-)

>>6326480
>>6326481
>>6326490
>HIGHEST ROLL: 42!
Welp, time to kill everyone. Writing!

The winning move, as you’re already aware of, is to make some noise! Far away from your hiding spot, but just within your firing range! Scooping up a hefty chunk of debris off the ground courtesy of Rezzie’s rampage, you ready your Slinger in your other claw before lobbing your stony distraction a few strides away!

It bounces once. Twice. Rolls for a second or two… and then?

Nothing. It’s hard to tell if it was even heard over the sound of Rezalith tearing apart the burning roof across from you and everything on it, but if you could hear the pebble then surely a Durher co-

You almost don’t sense it–lingering magic at your back! With too little room to shoot, all you can do is whip around just in time to feel a thin blade rake across your lower back!

A muttered curse confirms what you already know: you’ve got company! Small, angry-eyed, Durher company, that is! He might’ve whiffed the first stab, but that doesn’t stop the Sniper for long–a flurry of swipes encroaches upon you as you back away and dodge using the sound of the blade for guidance! It keeps you from getting stabbed, of course, but every moment you spend dodging is one you don’t spend drawing your own blade!

Feeling your back press against a wall, you seize the opportunity and kick off the surface to deliver a kick at the furball’s face! They duck it, of course, but you use the opportunity to hop over their blade and escape the corner!

Stooping low to retrieve your close-quarters weapon, a hiss escapes your mouth as you feel the Durher’s knife scrape the chitin just below your left eye! Punishing the attempt with a headbutt to his skull, you groan inwardly as the Spice Carteler shields his face with his forearms and whips at your eyes again with his tail!

Ducking below the attack, you use the opportunity to draw your blade and slash at the Sniper–it’s a bit too slow and wide to connect, but it buys you some distance… and distance is what you need the most!

Squaring up with blades drawn, the two of you circle each other like two Makaar fighting over a fresh kill… the footing is fraught with bits of rubble and puddles of molten glass and metal, but neither one of you seems keen on making any mistakes!

For a while you let your blades do the talking–and you hate to admit it, but this Durher’s got some moves! Even your quietest movements are picked up long before they land, and it takes every ounce of concentration you have to hear where his strikes are coming from!

You kick some rubble his way–he sidesteps it! He ducks below your blade? You slam the guard into his cheek! You snatch him up by the ears? He BITES!

You’re almost ready to call it a draw when you hear it–the flapping of massive wings and the uncanny tingling of infernal magic forming above you! You and the Sniper’s eyes both dart away for a second to see what’s happening, though you already have a hunch…

>CONTD.

>>6326640
“KYAAAAAAHAHAHA!!!! BEST! DAY! EVERRRR!!!!”

It’s going to be your LAST day ever if Rezzie torches your rooftop again! You indulge in an inward sigh of relief–it’s Rezalith! She knows you’re not an enemy! She’ll put the flames away once she sees you…

Um.

Okay, the flames in her hands aren’t dissipating. You and the Sniper exchange a concerned glance as the happy hellion prepares to flash-fry the rooftop!

>Roll me 1d100-2 (+5 Ranger Senses, +3 Forester’s Footwork, -3 Panicked Sniper, -7 I Love The Smell of Hellfire In The Morning…) to GET OUTTA THERE! Best of 3!

Rolled 9 - 2 (1d100 - 2)

>>6326641

Rolled 23 - 2 (1d100 - 2)

>>6326641
I AWAKEN.
WATCH THIS

Rolled 26 - 2 (1d100 - 2)

>>6326641

Rolled 90 - 2 (1d100 - 2)

>>6326641

>>6326784
Just a few seconds too late