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File 124855720293.gif - (7.08KB , 800x600 , 213.gif )
13374 No. 13374 ID: c01408

The coming of morn has banished the terrible night.
Expand all images
>>
No. 13377 ID: c01408
File 124855728476.gif - (15.08KB , 800x600 , 214.gif )
13377

I'm certainly going to have to become more familiar with sleeping in a dungeon.
I'm rather accustomed to having windows.

But that's not important now.
Now, it's morning.
Where do we stand?
>>
No. 13381 ID: 93c708

A little to the left.
>>
No. 13382 ID: 684c9b

>>13377
On the ground, silly!

Now that we're up and at'em, let's go see if what happened last night was a dream or not. Go find where you buried that coffin.
>>
No. 13383 ID: fb5d8e

Thine minions need to be looked after. See if all went allright, especially with the goblin - she seemed rather distressed. She may need some emotional support.
Give her the male attention she desires; You know how to act.
>>
No. 13385 ID: 40dc56

wake up your minions, time to get to work
>>
No. 13386 ID: f95743

INSPECT LAIR. ORDER YOUR MINIONS TO WORK. FIND A SOURCE OF WEALTH.
>>
No. 13387 ID: 93c708

RAP ABOUT YO LIFE DAWG
>>
No. 13390 ID: 8ce2bf

Get a painting of a nice landscape and hang it up as a window replacement.
>>
No. 13391 ID: 96945d

>>13390
This.
>>
No. 13394 ID: bde1b8

First thing's first: Get a window to the surface.
>>
No. 13395 ID: c01408
File 124855770465.gif - (6.48KB , 800x600 , 215.gif )
13395

>>13382
Not a dream.
The empty coffin lies where I left it.
I make a mental note to get my minions to do the next burial.
>>
No. 13396 ID: 93c708

BUST OUT SOME PHAT BEATS
>>
No. 13398 ID: ed469a

A busy day ahead!
Get the repairs underway and the kobolds cleaning the fortress.
If they kill themselves in the trap we're getting a refund.
>>
No. 13400 ID: c01408
File 124855797962.gif - (12.93KB , 800x600 , 216.gif )
13400

Someone has cleaned up the dirt tracks in the hallway, though.
>>
No. 13401 ID: f95743

SEE IF OUR MINIONS HAVE SURVIVED THE NIGHT.
>>
No. 13402 ID: 93c708

RAP TO THE LIL DAWG THAT LIVES IN THAT MOUSE HOLE, YO
>>
No. 13404 ID: 8ce2bf

Check behind the canvas in your room.
Perhaps afterwards we should go groom.
Finesse is still working on the monster portal, I assume?
>>
No. 13405 ID: ed469a

>>13400
1. Check behind the blood-stained tarp.
2. See to the servants.
3. Get to work.
>>
No. 13406 ID: 670155

See, thats the good thing about having minions that dont go shopping, when they die you get your pay back.
>>
No. 13407 ID: 684c9b

>>13401
But get dressed first, boy. Must keep up our professional appearance.
>>
No. 13408 ID: ed469a

>>13404
Do what the bustin rhymes tell you.
>>
No. 13414 ID: c01408
File 12485585336.gif - (9.32KB , 800x600 , 217.gif )
13414

I trouble myself to take down the tarp in the throne room, but it's nothing more than a simple, deeply-stained tapestry. It hides nothing.
>>
No. 13416 ID: 8ce2bf

>>13414
Wear it as a cape.
>>
No. 13417 ID: ed469a

>>13414
Hmm. Yes. It'll make an excellent cape.
See how it looks on you.
>>
No. 13421 ID: 5e64a9

>>13414
Well, leave it down. It actually looks better, and will inspire us to replace it sooner.
What's next...
How are we doing on funds?
Go ask Finesse if she can think of any way to get rich extremely quickly. We could always resort to banditry, but there must be another way, right?
Something befitting Muschio!
>>
No. 13422 ID: 95484a

>>13414
At least have the minions clean the blood off. It's unsanitary.

>>13385
This one has a good point. Although it's certainly prestigious, how does ruling a dungeon become profitable? We've spent everything on getting started, but we still need to expand.
>>
No. 13423 ID: c01408
File 124855876790.gif - (6.16KB , 800x600 , 218.gif )
13423

Hm.
>>
No. 13424 ID: ed469a

>>13423
Nono, bloody side out.
>>
No. 13425 ID: 93c708

YO DAWG, RAP ABOUT YO NEW EVIL CAPE, YO
>>
No. 13426 ID: 8ce2bf

>>13423
Excellent, go to your minions and see how they're doing immediately. No time like the present!
>>
No. 13427 ID: f98e0b

See how the Monster Portal's coming along, boss.
>>
No. 13434 ID: f95743

DO NOT ALLOW THEM TO LAY THEIR EYES UPON YOUR LESS-THAN-IMPOSING SLEEPWEAR.
>>
No. 13435 ID: c01408
File 124855925427.gif - (13.30KB , 800x600 , 219.gif )
13435

>>13424
I believe it may be a bit too bulky.
>>
No. 13436 ID: ed469a

>>13435
Fine, set it aside. We'll have it adjusted later.
Go see how the minions are doing.
>>
No. 13437 ID: 8ce2bf

>>13435
Is it because of the layers? Try taking off your footie pajamas and seeing how it feels.
>>
No. 13438 ID: 2abfb1

>>13435
COME ON

THAT LOOKS BADASS
>>
No. 13439 ID: 06b21e

>>13435
Capes are hazardous.

No capes.
>>
No. 13443 ID: 93c708

CLOAK SELF IN BLOODSTAINED TARP
MAKE THEM ALL FEAR YOU
>>
No. 13450 ID: 39baee

>>13439
Capes are indeed a highly contributing factor to many a villain's early demise. What's next, we'll start practicing our five minute monologues and designing contrived death contraptions?
>>
No. 13453 ID: bde1b8

>>13450
Of course.
>>
No. 13454 ID: c01408
File 124855985411.gif - (9.51KB , 800x600 , 220.gif )
13454

There, much better. Ready to face the day.

I decide to deposit the tapestry in the storage chest for now. I may simply dispose of it later, but until I decide on that, I'll keep it where it is.
>>
No. 13455 ID: ed469a

>>13454
Enter the kobolds' room forcefully. Glare at them if they aren't already at work.
>>
No. 13457 ID: 39baee

>>13454
I suppose you should make sure your underlings haven't managed to somehow kill themselves overnight.
>>
No. 13458 ID: bde1b8

>>13455
No no, don't be mean to them until they screw something up. Just because we're evil does not mean we are rude.
>>
No. 13460 ID: ed469a

>>13458
Then how are we different from any other boss?
No union negotiations? Damn we're nasty.
>>
No. 13462 ID: c01408
File 124856035552.gif - (12.46KB , 800x600 , 221.gif )
13462

Entering the Monster's Quarters, I find Babrakus, who respectfully salutes. It is a gesture I do not think I will soon tire of.

>"I clean up the blood and dirt in hall and back rooms."
I ask after his comrade, to which he responds:
>"Tislomer's out trying get some meat."

The remnants of the Monster Portal have been stacked neatly in the corner.
>>
No. 13463 ID: d5b2d6

>>13462
Clean off that chalkboard.
>>
No. 13466 ID: ed469a

>>13462
Clean the blackboard, then draw a duty roster and schedule in it's place.
Then go see if Finesse is up yet.
>>
No. 13468 ID: 8ce2bf

>>13462
Draw a dirty picture of Finesse on the chalkboard when you get a chance when no one is in the room.
>>
No. 13470 ID: c01408
File 124856068342.gif - (7.03KB , 800x600 , 222.gif )
13470

>>13463
That's enough of that.
>>
No. 13471 ID: d5b2d6

>>13468
Then punish the hunter bold for drawing it.
>>
No. 13474 ID: 93c708

SLICE THE KOBOLD WITH YOUR BLADE AND DRINK HIS BLOOD
>>
No. 13477 ID: f44349

>>13471
It was like that when we first got here.

>>13470
Let's check on Finesse!
>>
No. 13480 ID: d5b2d6

>>13477
No, for 'drawing' the naked Finesse. Because we're evil.
>>
No. 13482 ID: 8ce2bf

>>13470
Tell Babrakus to go get Finesse and bring her to you. Draw the dirty picture of Finesse while he's gone.
>>
No. 13485 ID: 39baee

>>13480
Evil doesn't mean stupid.
>>
No. 13489 ID: bde1b8

As I said before, don't be rude to the hirelings unless they screw up. We're evil, not uncivilized.
>>
No. 13491 ID: 5e64a9

>>13470
First order of business is to make money so we can hire more goons and equipment.
Use the chalkboard to list incoming ideas.
Even if he's just a damn kobold, ask Babrakus for ideas.
>>
No. 13495 ID: c01408
File 124856154357.gif - (10.60KB , 800x600 , 223.gif )
13495

I check the storage room, and it appears my Tinker has wasted no time in reorganizing it into a more functional workshop.
The crate that once blocked the door is now functioning as a desk, covered in tools brought by the Goblin.

>"'Morning, master. Didn't expect you so early. I'm still working."
>>
No. 13497 ID: ed469a

>>13495
"Good, you're up. Have you had a chance to look at the place yet?"
>>
No. 13498 ID: fb5d8e

FONDLE THEM TITTIES
>>
No. 13499 ID: 4df3c8

>>13495
"What are you up to?"
>>
No. 13501 ID: 8ce2bf

>>13495
Say "How about you start working on something more important?" and pull down your pants. Then ask her how long she thinks it will take to get the monster portal working.
>>
No. 13502 ID: 93c708

LUNGE AT THE UNSUSPECTING GOBLIN
TEAR OUT ITS INTESTINES AND FASHION THEM INTO A NECKLACE
>>
No. 13506 ID: ed469a

>>13502
Shut up, sex drive.
>>
No. 13507 ID: fb5d8e

WAIT---!!! Okay, enough of these sexual urges.
The woman needs some friendship to help her adjust. Make smalltalk, act close.
>>
No. 13509 ID: f98e0b

>>13495
Get this relationship off the ground, boss. If only to know more about your employees and inspire some loyalty. If your minions don't see you as faceless they'll be more hesitant to betray you. Plus, win their hearts and minds, and their asses are not far behind.
>>
No. 13510 ID: d5b2d6

>>13509
Go die in a fire, sex drive.

Okay, Muschio. Let's get this up and running. Ask her what she's doing. If it's not making traps, tell her to make a cage trap for the front hall. Use that cage from the monster portal room for it.
>>
No. 13512 ID: 8ce2bf

>>13509
Sex drive is right, we need to start putting the moves on Tislomer. Have a taste of his meat when he gets back and tell him its delicious.
>>
No. 13513 ID: 521e18

>>13495
As your inherent racism and distrust boss, I'm going to recommend you ignore the sexual and romantic commands and ask how long the monster portal is expected to take.

Then plan on it taking longer. Just in case the goblin screws it up (which is likely, the filthy abhuman).
>>
No. 13516 ID: c01408
File 124856226874.gif - (6.14KB , 800x600 , 224.gif )
13516

"So, what are you up to? Have you had a chance to look at the place yet?"

>"Yeah, I had a look around. Kinda small, but good potential. Anyway, I had a look at the portal last night when it was still in pieces and I talked to the Kobolds a bit about it to get an idea of what kind of repairs we're looking at. That's what I'm planning for now."
>>
No. 13517 ID: ed469a

>>13516
"Show me your plans. How long do you expect it to take?"
>>
No. 13518 ID: 93c708

RIP AND TEAR THE GOBLIN APART
HER FLESH WILL BE DELICIOUS
>>
No. 13520 ID: f42c4e

>>13516
Got an estimation on how long it will take? Not that I want you to leave too soon.
>>
No. 13521 ID: fb5d8e

Tell her that sounds good, but ask her how she is feeling personally too.
>>
No. 13522 ID: f42c4e

>>13518
Shut up blood lust.
>>
No. 13523 ID: ed469a

>>13518
Silence your grumblings, bowels. You'll have your corn flakes soon. And some raisins if you're a good boy.
>>
No. 13524 ID: 521e18

>>13518
Guys, can someone get a handle on Latent Insanity? He's been acting up a bit too much lately.

Oh, and ask how long the portal's going to be.
>>
No. 13526 ID: d5b2d6

>>13510
What I said before. Also, I tried to get Cowardice to calm Latent Insanity down, but I haven't seen him since.
>>
No. 13528 ID: f98e0b

Ask if there's anything you can do to help get it up faster.
>>
No. 13529 ID: f98e0b

>>13528
where the hell did that tripcode come from I am not good with computer
>>
No. 13530 ID: f42c4e

>>13502
Now, now, my good blood lust.

Why restrict to physical pain when mental pain is so much more satisfying and evil.

I say we do more than just seduce her. We make her fall in love with us. And then... we break her heart. Horribly. Once she's served her purpose and we've found a better replacement.

What could be more Evil? Evil with a capital E.
>>
No. 13533 ID: c73b9f

Hey guys.
Maybe we could learn something about symbol magic from her?
>>
No. 13534 ID: f98e0b

>>13533
Good idea. Take a more hands-on approach to the gate and see if you can learn more about the world's arcana while you do so.
Proivded Finesse lets you. Remember, one of her terms was full control of putting up the Portal.
>>
No. 13536 ID: 521e18

>>13534
Bah, she's probably going to take control of it or something. Keep a close eye on her workings, regardless of whether she lets you help.
>>
No. 13537 ID: c01408
File 12485629706.gif - (6.33KB , 800x600 , 225.gif )
13537

I'm getting more than annoyed at certain aspects of my consciousness. I understand priorities are subject to influence from certain drives but, for example, my inner bloodlust is so passive that there's no way it bears listening to, especially in a situation like this. I must remain within the realm of what is still practical.
So those parts should shut up, already.

"How long do you think it will take before the portal is operational?"

Finesse pauses, resting her head on one hand with a sigh.
>"That's the thing. Y'see, master, the Portal Gem powering the Monster Portal's been destroyed. It's not a component I can repair. I can piece the runes back together, but we'll need a whole new Gem."
>>
No. 13538 ID: ed469a

>>13530
Bloodlust isn't after evil. He's after blood and guts.
And I saw cowardice a while back. He was curled up under the bed.
>>
No. 13540 ID: c73b9f

>>13537
What are the requirements to manufacture or otherwise procure a new gem?
>>
No. 13541 ID: f98e0b

>>13537
Where can we find a replacement?
>>
No. 13542 ID: ed469a

>>13537
"Well how long until you've reassembled the runes?
And tell us more about this "Power gem"."
Looks like we're going on a trip, boys.
>>
No. 13543 ID: f42c4e

>>13537
"And tell me"

Lean on desk, sexily

"My dear, do you know where we can find one?"

We shall have her heart, so we may break it.
>>
No. 13545 ID: d5b2d6

>>13538
I hope you didn't ask him why.
>>
No. 13546 ID: 521e18

>>13537
Probably stole the damn thing so she could examine it. "Destroyed" my rear end.

Regardless, we can't prove anything, so ask about creating/obtaining a new one.
>>
No. 13549 ID: f98e0b

>>13543
Even Sex Drive thinks we should leave romance alone until we get that portal up.
>>
No. 13550 ID: 4df3c8

>>13537
"I see. Where can a replacement be found?"
>>
No. 13552 ID: 521e18

>>13543
Dramatic Evil, you and I need to have a talk later about abhumans and relationships, and why we don't have either.
>>
No. 13554 ID: 95484a

We never did get a straight answer about whether monster portal monsters will be loyal to us, did we? Better ask about that after asking out how/where to get a new crystal.
>>
No. 13558 ID: d5b2d6

>>13552
Dammit Racism/Mistrust, you're an annoying little bugger.
>>
No. 13561 ID: ed469a

>>13552
That would be sex drive talking.

We must have more information. Inquire for detail.
>>
No. 13564 ID: c01408
File 124856367025.gif - (8.35KB , 800x600 , 226.gif )
13564

>>13540
"What are the requirements to manufacture a new gem?"

>"Oh no, master. We're not anywhere near the point where we can start making our own. Our best bet right now would be to buy a new one, but you won't just find 'em lying around shops, especially for what they're used for.

>But... I may know of where we can get one.

>There's a big-shot merchant lives in Sepia Town. Real high roller type. He's got a collection of rare stuff, and I heard tell there's a bunch of magic gems among the other goodies. Could be a Portal Gem in there. It'd be a good place to start, at least."
>>
No. 13567 ID: c73b9f

>>13564
We don't have the fund to be purchasing magical items yet, I would imagine. At least not yet.
>>
No. 13568 ID: f42c4e

>>13549
Oh fine. At least allow the building blocks to be built. Some meager flirting. Also ask what else she could build for us. Some machines of terror, perhaps? Deadly traps that torture the body until it finally dies?
>>13552
But my dear racism, this is how we shall hurt the wretched Goblin the most. We shall be sneering and looking down on her behind her back, I assure you. And we will one day deal her a fate worse than death. And then deal her death anyway. By tyeing her to a train.
>>
No. 13569 ID: 521e18

>>13559
Yes well, at least I'm not openly working against the rest of us and the boss. While we're at it, weren't you supposed to be locked in the subconscious? Which one of you let him free?
>>
No. 13570 ID: 4df3c8

>>13564
"How much would one cost?"

Current wealth: 11 gold

How are we going to get more cash?
>>
No. 13572 ID: ed469a

>>13564
"Seems like we have no choice. Very well. I will venture into town. You're in charge while I'm gone.
And keep and eye on the kobolds."
>>
No. 13573 ID: bde1b8

>>13564
Well lets see if we can't find a way to steal a bunch of fancy gems. Leave Finesse and kobolds to their work, and let's check out Sepia Town.
>>
No. 13574 ID: 521e18

>>13564
Go along to this merchant, but remember to bring weapons to protect yourself should it turn out to be an ambush.
>>
No. 13576 ID: d5b2d6

>>13569
I'm not dumb. You locked it with a piece of paper colored gray.

Not to mention I'm not working against the boss, only /you/. Good Is Not Nice.
>>
No. 13577 ID: c73b9f

>>13564
How much would you estimate the cost of a portal gem would be?
>>
No. 13578 ID: 93c708

WHAT WEAPONS DO WE OWN?
TAKE THEM TO THIS MERCHANT AND DEMAND THE GEM
IF HE DOES NOT GIVE IT TO US WILLINGLY, KILL HIM
IF HE DOES GIVE IT TO US WILLINGLY, KILL HIM
>>
No. 13579 ID: f2de2f

>>13568
Do trains even exist or are you making things up?
>>
No. 13580 ID: f98e0b

>>13568
>>13569
Quit pissin' around with the idea of alienating our most important minion. Not only is it a stupid damn idea, Finesse has also given NO indication she's into us, and it's a waste of time and ddistraction from what we're trying to do.

Let's pay this merchant a visit.
>>
No. 13581 ID: d5b2d6

>>13568
I think you mean 'tying'.
>>
No. 13582 ID: 670155

I'm sure we could trade our rare unbalanced gnoll sword.
>>
No. 13584 ID: 95484a

>>13570
Evil, obviously.
>>
No. 13585 ID: 5e64a9

>>13570
See, this is why we need to make some money. Empires positively hemorrhage money, and we're going to need a lot.
We need to come up with some good schemes. Anything, really. As long as it makes us rich.
Can you guys think of anything?
>>
No. 13587 ID: ed469a

>>13580
What he said.
Seriously, she seems loyal and dependable. Right now we need that more than any shape of "tang" you could dream up.
>>
No. 13588 ID: d5b2d6

Ask her if we can temporarily cut her pay to pay for the gem.
>>
No. 13589 ID: 521e18

>>13580
Bah, I've accepted her usefulness for now. We need all the help we can get, and I'm not stupid. I'm just saying, we shouldn't trust her as far as we can throw this dungeon and we DEFINITELY should not be considering relationships with her.
>>
No. 13590 ID: 93c708

>>13585

HEAD TO KOBOLD VILLAGE
KILL THEM AND TAKE THEIR POSSESSIONS
>>
No. 13591 ID: c73b9f

>>13578
If not that, maybe we could trade some weapons for other tools?
>>
No. 13592 ID: 39baee

Good lackeys are so hard to find, it seems foolhardy to simply toss one aside when we are done with them. Evil or not, good employer/employee relationships can go a long way towards stopping dissent among the lessers. Especially since a strike in the villain business generally means a horrible death for the boss.
>>
No. 13593 ID: f42c4e

>>13579
I don't know. We should probably ask Finesse what the most advanced bit of technology is.

Seeing as we're still wielding swords, I think I probably am.
>>13581
You are correct. I probably should not type at this hour. Oh well.
>>
No. 13594 ID: c01408
File 124856428599.gif - (9.77KB , 800x600 , 227.gif )
13594

I'm a little unnerved as to why my decision-making half is so set on flirting with this Goblin.
I've no desire to break her heart or otherwise torment her. It's my belief that such treatment should only be meted out to enemies, traitors, and poor workers. If my Tinker is doing a good job, it's counter-productive to punish her for it.

"How much does such a gem usually cost?"
>"I couldn't say, master. Probably a few thousand coin."

Well out of my price range.
I inform Finesse that she will be in charge in my absence.
"Get to work on what you can do for the portal. And keep an eye on the Kobolds. I'll return soon."
>>
No. 13596 ID: d5b2d6

>>13589
For once, I agree. She is naught but an employee and should remain that way. If anything, we should be having relationships with a Volto.
>>
No. 13597 ID: 4df3c8

>>13585
Insufficient data for meaningful answer.

Who has money who is weaker than us? (The Kobolds and Goblins are out of the question. They're our labor pool.)
>>
No. 13598 ID: ed469a

>>13592
Xykon never had to put up with that shit. Just lightning bolt / animate dead.
>>
No. 13604 ID: f42c4e

>>13594
Fine. Money making schemes. Evil money making schemes. Now, plain murder and thievery are options, but they are lacking in classiness. We've a herbalist, so making drugs is an option. Sell them to people at town.

Or we could try kidnapping. Always a classic. Although it does run the risk of damn adventurers barging in, and we're not read for that.
>>
No. 13613 ID: ed469a

>>13604
Your proposal appeals to me.
Selling drugs to impressionable kids seems an efficient low-risk way of making money.
Kidnappings will have to wait until the portal is operational, because we need some serious muscle (in case of adventurers).

>>13594

Gather your equipment and whatever we can sell and set off to Sepia town.
>>
No. 13615 ID: 521e18

>>13596
You're agreeing with me? YOU'RE agreeing with ME?

Alright "Goodness," what's your angle?

>>13594
Alright, we need to steal some gold. What's the richest town nearby?
>>
No. 13622 ID: d5b2d6

>>13615
What angle? I'm his inner goodness, I rarely have an angle.

Much as I loathe the idea of stealing, it appears to be the only way to build up wealth. We can always repay them with a benefactual rule.
>>
No. 13624 ID: ed469a

>>13622
Bitch be trippin balls. We gotta smack em hoes so they stays down, y'hear?
>>
No. 13627 ID: c73b9f

Odds are, if we steal something too big, we'll get too much attention.
I'm sure in sepiatown, a Volto isn't something they see every day.
Such a description of one of our stature is one that will not cause any confusion.

There must be no witnesses.
>>
No. 13628 ID: bde1b8

First we need to check the town to see if he even HAS the gem for the monster portal. If not, we'll have to gather info for where we might find one.

If yes, fuck gathering money. We are Muschio Malto, and we will steal that gem.
>>
No. 13629 ID: f2de2f

I don't think any of you want to do what you say you do... I'm pretty sure, but how do I know if I'm actually sure? Do I really exist? If I don't, how do I know?
>>
No. 13639 ID: f44349

>>13629
Hush up you. This is no time to get existential.

>>13628
I agree, gathering information seems a prudent first move.
Though, robbing him may be cheaper but can we really get away with it? And we don't want an evil reputation YET. We barely have the resources to maintain the dungeon let alone fight off some would-be heroes.
>>
No. 13642 ID: ed469a

>>13629
You don't exists. None of us exist. We're just bubbles in someone else's dream.
>>
No. 13643 ID: 521e18

>>13622
My dear sweet naive friend, EVERYONE has an angle.

The sooner the rest of you realize this, the better off we'll all be.

Also, recommending we take that dagger to town with us, possibly concealed up our sleeve. Never hurts to have a hidden weapon on hand.
>>
No. 13652 ID: f2de2f

>>13642
I don't believe you.
>>
No. 13656 ID: c01408
File 124856587911.gif - (6.59KB , 800x600 , 228.gif )
13656

I return to my throne room and make an inventory of all my belongings, both on my person and within the dungeon. This is a rough approximation so I may have forgotten something, but on the whole, this is what I have.
I'll keep this list for further reference.
>>
No. 13662 ID: c01408
File 124856597071.gif - (7.47KB , 800x600 , 229.gif )
13662

With my possessions accounted for, I set out to pay the High Roller of Sepia Town a visit.
Given that I lack the funds to purchase the portal I need in the most immediate future, I may need to produce another plan.
>>
No. 13664 ID: ed469a

>>13656
Take everything in the "Items" and "Curios" categories, as well as the gold. Then head to Sepia
>>
No. 13666 ID: 521e18

>>13656
Well, I don't have any ideas for now, but later when we have money, we should get that box with stone and toy sword looked at. By three separate appraisers of course. Doesn't make sense for Red Fang to have had them if they aren't worth anything.
>>
No. 13668 ID: 93c708

FIND THIS MERCHANT
SLICE HIS THROAT AND TAKE HIS POSSESSIONS
>>
No. 13670 ID: ed469a

>>13668
I can't tell, is that Latent Insanity or Stinginess?
>>
No. 13671 ID: 0dc731

>>13656
I wonder what that weird egg and stone are. Maybe Finesse would know? She seems like a smart girl.
>>
No. 13675 ID: ed469a

Boss, you haven't eaten in three days now. BUY SOME FOOD AT SEPIA BEFORE WE STARVE.
>>
No. 13677 ID: 95484a

>>13662
Okay. You essentially have three choices. You can steal the gem, you can steal the money you need for the gem, or you can do an honest day's work to earn the gem.

Not that we're well informed on the relative value of these coins or anything, but a few thousand probably sounds like at least an honest year's work, and you'd have to rob a vault to steal enough quickly.

Just think of this merchant's store as another dungeon that you can check out before looting, and you'll be fine.
>>
No. 13678 ID: ed469a

>>13677
You forgot barter. We have all kinds of weird crap that someone someone needs. We could trade that for the gem / the money for the gem.
>>
No. 13681 ID: c73b9f

Perhaps that scroll is valuable?
We cannot read it, but perhaps this salesman can!

It could be worth a trade.
>>
No. 13682 ID: bde1b8

>>13678
40 coins is enough for a kob's work without further pay being needed. I am certain our combined assets do not a thousand coins make.
>>
No. 13686 ID: 95484a

>>13678
>>13681
That is not an option. That is, at most, a remote possibility. But yes, we may as well have it appraised while we are in town. Preferably by someone we are not planning to rob.
>>
No. 13692 ID: 0dc731

>>13681
I just bet it says something like, "There is a trap next to this pedestal."
>>
No. 13708 ID: acdc9b

Maybe we can propose to do some task for the merchant in exchange for the gem? Everyone has enemies, as the goblin village has demonstrated.
>>
No. 13736 ID: c01408
File 124857055299.gif - (8.10KB , 800x600 , poz3.gif )
13736

With several weapons and a handful of trinkets in tow, I set out alone towards the rough and tumble Sepia Town to the North.

It won't be far, but the walk should do me some good and help me clear my head.

>The novelty's worn off pretty quickly. I'd appreciate if people would stop the gimmick of posting as abstracted elements of the psyche now. It was entertaining once, but now it results in about 1/10th of the Bobs actually being feasible, and the rest of the time people just give themselves pointless names. The ALL CAPS FLESH-EATING voice wasn't that amusing to begin with, and certainly doesn't need the company.
>I know you're all just trying to work off the orb mechanic, but to crystallize the psyche into such drastic and abstract extremes results in a bunch of Bobs Muschio would never even consider. Further, it contributes to way too much back-and-forth between people roleplaying as specific areas of thought that doesn't really contribute anything.
>It's better to just post normally, the bits and pieces of his mind simply representing passing thoughts and brewing ideas. That's why the implementation of, say, a voice named "Brainstorm" is pointless: because every Bob is essentially already part of a manifested brainstorm.
>Let's just go back to how we used to be, and just make Bobs as you normally would for a Quest.
>>
No. 13747 ID: 95484a

>>13736
Sorry, Boss.
>>
No. 13764 ID: ce4ac5
File 124857186670.jpg - (9.75KB , 251x177 , u mad.jpg )
13764

>>13736
>>
No. 13772 ID: f42c4e

>>13736
Got it.

So... do we continue?
>>
No. 13809 ID: 7dcac7

>>13677

Given our current situation, this is what it's probably gonna come down to. However, I think it best at this point in time to withhold judgement on exactly HOW we're going to obtain this gem until we are more aware of what conditions are like in this "Sepia Town", and what exactly this merchants wants for it.

In short, lets check things out first.
>>
No. 13819 ID: 521e18

>>13736
Sure thing.

>>13809
Seconding. We need more information.

Also, Finesse described him as a "High roller," perhaps we can gamble against him for the gem? Just throwing that out since nobody else seemed to be commenting on it. Although I'm a little stumped as to what we'd wager.
>>
No. 13842 ID: 9a71e2

>>13819
Hey guys, we should bet our SOU-
*Is shot by the others in the thread*
>>
No. 13952 ID: ed469a

>>13736
Yeah it was getting pretty old.
It's fun on occasion but it gets in the way of daily business.
Should you ever feel a Muschio has really big decision to make and his psyche needs to work it out properly, just tell us and we'll be back.
>>
No. 13953 ID: ed469a

>>13819
Our soul, duh.
>>
No. 13959 ID: 408036

I would suggest getting a 'feel' for the town before we approach the merchant. Scope out the places, the people, the gossip and rumours pertaining to said merchant. We need not be unprepared when we approach him, and a good leader must learn this. Plus we need to know of the potential hiding spots and escape routes we can use if the eventual decision for acquisition of the gem turns to violence and we botch it.
>>
No. 13964 ID: 33bb8b

There is still time to turn around and have our smart girl take a look at the mysterious unidentified artifacts before we wander off to town and show them to some merchant who will try to cheat us out of our valuable possessions.
>>
No. 14102 ID: c01408
File 124863465519.gif - (7.70KB , 800x600 , 230.gif )
14102

After a brisk walk in the morning air, I arrive at the outskirts of Sepia Town.
The smell of the overfull gutters is pungent even at this distance.
>>
No. 14103 ID: f95743

Keep a hand in contact with your wallet at all times. We don't have much, but goddamn if we're going to lose it to some cutpurse.
>>
No. 14109 ID: c01408
File 124863551536.gif - (14.10KB , 800x600 , 231.gif )
14109

I approach one of the gates encircling the walled slum-city.

The ground turns to cobblestone beneath my feet as I approach the crooked palisades.
>>
No. 14110 ID: fb5d8e

Give the man a friendly nod and head on in.
>>
No. 14111 ID: f95743

Don't engage the guard in conversation. Keep a low profile, just head on in unless he tries to stop you.
>>
No. 14112 ID: 6deae0

Try to look as bad ass as possible. We don't want any of the hoods thinking we're a pansy.

Perform the choreography to Beat It if you must.
>>
No. 14113 ID: dd1710

>>14109
Look tough and surly so this guy doesn't flip out at you.
>>
No. 14114 ID: c01408
File 124863581647.gif - (12.87KB , 800x600 , 232.gif )
14114

I do my best to manage a tough facade and walk past the guard. Other than a passing glance, the man does not impede my progress into the city.

Now that I'm here, what's my plan of action?
>>
No. 14116 ID: 6deae0

Seek out the High Rollan guy.
>>
No. 14117 ID: c73b9f

>>14114
Judging by the city's exterior appearance, this is not a high society town.

Look to wherever the most elaborate, or at least well-kept building is.

If it is not the merchant's building that we seek, it is surely a building of importance, and we can go from there.
>>
No. 14118 ID: c01408
File 124863625052.gif - (4.22KB , 800x600 , 234.gif )
14118

>>14116
Yes. That is why I'm here.

Sometimes I wish my consciousness were a bit more HELPFUL.
>>
No. 14119 ID: 197650

>>14118
Well, what do you think is the best place to start?
>>
No. 14121 ID: dd1710

>>14118
Yo, Muschio's inner hip hop suggests you look fo' the dopest building on the block where all the playaz are headin' so you can bust out some wit!
>>
No. 14122 ID: c42be6

>>14118
Travel around town a bit first, see if you can make us some sort of map, or at least list of locations in town.
>>
No. 14124 ID: 39baee

>>14119
The idea is we're supposed to be doing the thinking.
>>14118
Perhaps a basic outline of the town would aid in the decision making process.
>>
No. 14127 ID: c01408
File 124863708454.gif - (16.89KB , 800x600 , 233.gif )
14127

>>14119
>Well, what do you think is the best place to start?
YOU'RE the decision-makers! If I could do this on my own, I would!

>>14122
I try to get a bead on the town's layout, but the entire village is like a sprawling slum crossed over itself a half dozen times. A labyrinthine construction leaves a design made almost entirely of alleys and narrow streets, each walled by buildings wearing heavy doors. Windows are scarce, and those that exist are tightly-boarded.

Everything smells of stale waste and rotting garbage.
>>
No. 14129 ID: f75edf

>>14127

Ask a local where one can find this well-off merchant.
>>
No. 14130 ID: 7dcac7

>>14127

Ask a nearby fellow who the bigname merchants are around here. If, as Finesse claimed, this guy is some sort of big-shot, SOMEONE has to know about him.
>>
No. 14132 ID: d4a077

>>14127
Have you not been evil long enough to know that when help is needed, a tavern is never too far away?
Most likely there would be some clueless fools muckin' about in there just waiting to do some menial task for pennies.
>>
No. 14136 ID: 7dcac7

>>14132

Being as short on cash as we are, I'm not so certain paying others to do something as simple as finding a merchant is the best idea.
>>
No. 14140 ID: fb5d8e

Approach a particular hard looking thug and tell him you're looking to 'roll high'. Wink wink, nudge nudge.
>>
No. 14153 ID: c01408
File 124863874666.gif - (8.83KB , 800x600 , 235.gif )
14153

I approach one of the nearby villagers and attempt a bit of conversation, though it's hampered by not knowing exactly what to ask.

>"What'cha need, big boss?"
"I'm looking for a, uh... I'm looking for a merchant."
>"Plenty'a doze 'round here."
"Well, specifically, I'm looking for... well, a well-off merchant. Um. Someone who, uh... well, I don't really know his name, but if you know anyone-"
>"S'amatter, chief? Cat got y'tounge?"
>>
No. 14158 ID: f75edf

>>14153

"Somewhere where I can get some magic items?"
>>
No. 14159 ID: 6deae0

>>14153
Be forthright. Tell him you're looking for a merchant who deals in arcane artifacts.
>>
No. 14161 ID: 2abfb1

>>14153
Tell him you are looking to gamble, and are looking for the high roller in this town.
>>
No. 14162 ID: 197650

>>14153
No ordinary thug can talk to you like that! threaten him with his life if he does not tell you where you may obtain rare or magical items right now!
>>
No. 14176 ID: c01408
File 124863971982.gif - (9.18KB , 800x600 , 236.gif )
14176

"Now look here, you'll watch your tongue if you know what's good for you. I'm searching for a dealer of rare and arcane goods.
A collector, a man who I can only imagine lives above the level of squalor in this town.

I'm looking for the High Roller."

The catfolk villager grins thinly.
>"Oh, sh'thing chief. I know where'a Don is. Top-class area in town. C'mon, I'll take y'to 'im."
>>
No. 14179 ID: 197650

>>14176
Keep your guard up, he might try to get you out of the public sight to rob you.
>>
No. 14180 ID: 6deae0

>>14176
Be wary - I do not care for the grin upon that gentleman's visage.
>>
No. 14182 ID: f44349

>>14179
>>14180
Indeed.
Watch your back Muschio.
I mean that literally, by the way. Don't let anyone skulk into your blind spots.
>>
No. 14183 ID: c01408
File 124864084982.gif - (24.50KB , 800x600 , 237.gif )
14183

I would say this man is leading me down an alley, but the entire town seems to be comprised of nothing but alleys.
>>
No. 14184 ID: c42be6

>>14176
Follow him. We have no other leads at the moment. Don't let your guard down, though.
>>
No. 14191 ID: fb5d8e

In the darkest of alleys, get him into a headlock and tell him you don't like to be played with, just in case.
>>
No. 14194 ID: c01408
File 124864168410.gif - (25.80KB , 800x600 , 238.gif )
14194

Another two catfolk appear, the one behind me brandishing a knife.

>"Looky here boys. Big boss here comes in wit'is finery and goes askin' about the High Roller. Y'think 'e's got some goodies on 'im?"

It's a trap. I can hardly say I'm surprised.
>>
No. 14195 ID: 35cea2

>>14194

You brought your sword, right? RIGHT?
>>
No. 14196 ID: f2de2f

CAST MAGIC MISSLE
>>
No. 14198 ID: f75edf

Brandish your sword and don't hesitate in cutting these street punks down.
>>
No. 14200 ID: f44349

>>14194
CUT THE FOOLS DOWN BEFORE THEY HAVE TIME TO MOVE INTO POSITION
TRY AND KEEP ONE ALIVE FOR QUESTIONING
>>
No. 14201 ID: dd1710

>>14194
"Yeah, I got a few things."
Pull out the animal skull, then break it.

"Oops, looks like a need a new one. Who'd like to see some new magic I've been playing with?"
>>
No. 14202 ID: d4a077

>>14194
That cat behind the crate has an eye bandage thing going on.
Go on, hug him. You know it's the only possible solution.
>>
No. 14203 ID: acdc9b

Stand by for Ruby to drop in to help with her mean left hook!

If that doesn't happen, yell 'oh look, catnip!' and run the other direction.
>>
No. 14205 ID: 06b21e

>>14194
If you can kill Red Fang, these chumps are hardly a threat. In two swift motions, stab the one behind you, wrench your blade out, and stab or cut the one that led you here.

Unless your dagger is the only blade easy to pull out, in which case I'm not sure what to do.

If you're lucky, you'll catch them flatfooted and the last one will be a bit stunned.
>>
No. 14209 ID: bde1b8

>>14205
In the case that your sword isn't good to pull out, slash the one who brought you here in an upward vertical slash with your dagger, turning to face the one eyed cat as you do so.
>>
No. 14212 ID: ce4ac5

Drop the guy who led you to them. He might be their leader and it might cause MASSIVE MORAL DAMAGE to his gangers.
>>
No. 14230 ID: 7eda8b

With one hand, draw your sword. With the other, perform your Fire Trick.

"I suggest you rethink your chosen course of action, gentlemen."
>>
No. 14236 ID: 68f00c

>>14194
Punch the one next to you right in the face and get some room to draw your sword. Then mow the catfolk down, they deserve nothing better.
>>
No. 14253 ID: 670155

Punch their leader in the snout to establish dominance.
>>
No. 14265 ID: c01408
File 124864613679.gif - (26.94KB , 800x600 , 239.gif )
14265

No time nor elbow room to draw my sword.
The leader goes for his dagger, and I go for mine.

He sees me make the move and tries to counter.
I'm faster.
>>
No. 14268 ID: 670155

START PUNCHING THE BODY SO THEY KNOW YOU'RE BATSHIT INSANE!
>>
No. 14269 ID: fda774

assume awesome pose

"Had enough?"
>>
No. 14270 ID: d5b2d6

What are you, special? Kill the rest of them.
>>
No. 14272 ID: 68f00c

>>14265
Right off the the next one. Pin his arm to the crate and draw your sword to slay the last one.
>>
No. 14274 ID: 7eda8b

Pin Tom's hand to the crate with the dagger, then draw your sword.
>>
No. 14275 ID: c01408
File 124864655182.gif - (25.97KB , 800x600 , 240.gif )
14275

His brothers in arms don't seem to be quite as bold when their quarry fights back.
The alley is silent.
>>
No. 14278 ID: 67c611

>>14275
HOT DAMN!
LOOT THAT SHIT!
>>
No. 14279 ID: 7eda8b

You are clearly sticking out too much here.

Take the fallen one's bowler along with his other valuables.
>>
No. 14280 ID: 68f00c

>>14275
Clean your blade and get out.
>>
No. 14284 ID: 67c611

>>14275
Make two notches on your dagger scabbard. One for GnollGuy and one for Bowler. Do a victory jig.
>>
No. 14288 ID: c01408
File 124864697725.gif - (25.15KB , 800x600 , 241.gif )
14288

I take the catfolk's hat and dagger, as well as the 6 gold he has on him.
>>
No. 14291 ID: 7eda8b

Put on the bowler and walk, don't run, away from the scene of the crime. There may be some form of authority, or at least toughs, coming.

See if there's somewhere you can get a map, or a brochure, or just find clues with signposts, as to where this jeweler might live.
>>
No. 14293 ID: 67c611

>>14288
Explain how you matrix-dodged the bloodspray.
>>
No. 14295 ID: c01408
File 124864731154.gif - (5.20KB , 800x600 , 242.gif )
14295

Hm. No, I don't think this hat is any more flattering than the other one I tried on.
>>
No. 14296 ID: d4a077

>>14295
Does it... jingle?
>>
No. 14299 ID: 7eda8b

>>14295
I think it looks good on you.

Let's focus on the task at hand, in either case. Navigate your surroundings in search of maps or other clues.
>>
No. 14300 ID: fda774

>>14295
not a hat person are you?
>>
No. 14303 ID: 95484a

>>14295
It's not supposed to be flattering. Looking fancy marks you as a target around here.

Maybe next time you should ask another shopkeeper for the high roller. They might be slightly less likely to pull a knife on you, as they could miss a customer that way.
>>
No. 14304 ID: 93c708

Slice off the Catperson's scalp and wear it as a hat.
>>
No. 14307 ID: 67c611

>>14303
We actually made a profit on this "trap". We could get used to this. Asking shady people for help, being led into a trap, then killing them in self defense.
>>
No. 14313 ID: 67c611

>>14307
And loot them. We can't forget that.


umm......yeah. Go back to a main alleyway and ask someone for help.


We should start wearing the hats of everyone we kill. Have like a 3-high stack of hats on. The next guy about to mug us asks where we got all the hat.
"Oh, I looted them off the corpses of the last 3 people that tried to rob me."
".......The shop is right this way"
>>
No. 14316 ID: c01408
File 124864828235.gif - (12.68KB , 800x600 , 243.gif )
14316

I follow the path the thug had been leading me down, and exiting the alley on the far side, I discover that despite his best efforts he had been leading me to the correct area.

The streets are less filthy in this district, and the buildings are high-class -- easily distinguished by their garish architecture.
>>
No. 14319 ID: 7eda8b

>>14316
With the regal bearing of your birth, approach one of the well to do gentlemen and inquire as to the location of a trader in mystic artifacts and interdimensional gems.
>>
No. 14327 ID: c01408
File 124864888210.gif - (10.58KB , 800x600 , 244.gif )
14327

I approach the nearest and finest-looking manor and address the catfolk guard that mans the door.

"Excuse me, my good man. I'm looking for the High Roller."
>"Awf course. And who myay I say is calling, nya?"
>>
No. 14329 ID: 7eda8b

>>14327
"Muschio Malto."

Cross your arms if it feels appropriate.
>>
No. 14330 ID: bde1b8

>>14327
"Muschio Malto, tragic prince and budding dungeon keeper."
>>
No. 14331 ID: f98e0b

"Stewart H. AssumedName, complete nonentity."
>>
No. 14334 ID: 67c611

>>14327
Hey Muschio
What titles have you gone by in the past? We could pose as a collector, but we hardly look it. We might say that we prefer not to identify ourselves. Dethroned price of a long forgotten kingdom?

We didn't ask Finesse what else those crystals could be used for so we could ask for it and say we are using it for an innocent purpose.
>>
No. 14338 ID: c01408
File 124864934890.gif - (8.95KB , 800x600 , 245.gif )
14338

"My name is Muschio Malto. I am... a collector. I wish to speak to the High Roller."

>"As you wish! I'll go fetch the master, nya!"

The doorman disappears into the house, behind a set of lavish and impressively-large doors.
>>
No. 14343 ID: 35cea2

>>14338

Is there any windows nearby? If so, look into one of them.
>>
No. 14346 ID: 67c611

>>14343
That would be too suspicious. Take your time. Stay cool. Those are key qualities for a BBEG. You only have one chance at this. Make it count.
>>
No. 14347 ID: 7eda8b

Continue waiting.
>>
No. 14348 ID: c01408
File 124865016048.gif - (11.69KB , 800x600 , 246.gif )
14348

The doorman soon reappears, holding the door ajar for me.

>"The master will see you nyow. Please, enter freely, nya!"
>>
No. 14349 ID: bde1b8

>>14348
Thank him and enter.
>>
No. 14350 ID: d4a077

>>14348
It might be another trap. Stay alert.
>>
No. 14352 ID: 7eda8b

Fucking cat.

Well, in we go.
>>
No. 14353 ID: c01408
File 124865077846.gif - (14.85KB , 800x600 , 247.gif )
14353

The catfolk doorman leads me inside down a short anteroom and into a wide landing with stairs ascending. A few small glass display cases are mounted on pedestals of wood or stone, and compliment the tapestries adorning the room.

A rather large figure I can only assume is the master of the manor stands before me at the landing of the stairs.

>"Greetings, Muschio Malto. My name is Copal. What can I do for you?"
>>
No. 14355 ID: bde1b8

>>14353
Compliment his taste in tapestries.

Then get down to business. We're here to look at gemstones and maybe steal some, and he's not gonna hear about that second part.
>>
No. 14356 ID: 7eda8b

I see no point in beating about the bush.

"I seek a functional Portal Gem. Where could I find one, and what price would such a thing command?"
>>
No. 14357 ID: c01408
File 124865138183.gif - (7.75KB , 800x600 , 248.gif )
14357

"You have very good taste in tapestries, Mister Copal."

He speaks with a broad tone, enunciating every word with intermittent yet deliberate pauses.
>"Thank you. I'm sometheeng of a collector. But you already knyew that, eef you are here."
>>
No. 14359 ID: ed469a

>>14353
"I am Muschio Malto, a fellow admirer of rare and wonderful objects. I have come to pay my respects to your collection, if that would be acceptable."
After we're in his good graces, inquire about magical gems.
If we go straight for the prize he will raise his price.
>>
No. 14372 ID: 67c611

We have the fragments of a portal gem. Are they worth anything to him?

Ask him what he thinks about questionable business practices and shady figures. It would be a lot easier if we could be open about why we want the gem. Be careful when asking this.

perhaps
"I have a question for you. Do you follow the law to the letter, or do you follow it only so long as it is convenient for you."

depending on the answer think up a more ... evil question to see how far outside the law he is willing to go. He would make a nice ally to find stuff for us. We get rare stuff, he gets cash. Good deal.
>>
No. 14386 ID: 3ccb64

>>14372
The only problem with this idea is WE HAVE NO CASH. IF WE DID IT WOULDN'T BE A PROBLEM.
>>
No. 14389 ID: 67c611

>>14386
I mean when we have cash. Right now we are just checking out what he's got.
>>
No. 14390 ID: 3ccb64

>>14389
>Right now we are just checking out what he's got.
No. That is wrong. Right now we are trying to get his portal gem.
>>
No. 14400 ID: 67c611

>>Right now we are trying to get his portal gem
>>if you know what I mean.
>>
No. 14404 ID: 7eda8b

"I have need of a Portal Gem. How may I acquire one?"
>>
No. 14417 ID: 67c611

<Muschio>takin' a divebreak
<Muschio>and a nyap I think
<Muschio>but it will continue this evening
>>
No. 15067 ID: 2cbe3e

>>14357

Indeed. My good man I am on the prowl for a gem of magical importance. I have here a number of similarly valuable objects that I suppose I could part with should you be able to help me.
>>
No. 17037 ID: c01408
File 12488935187.gif - (16.54KB , 800x600 , 249.gif )
17037

Copal breathes heavily and slowly, as if it is a great effort for him. Perhaps it is natural for a man of his size.

"I am Muschio Malto, a fellow admirer of rare curios and exotic treasures. I have come to pay respects to your collection."

>"How pearfectly flattering. Veesitors are always welcome in my gallery."

Copal leads me up the great stairs and into a great showroom, stocked with foreign treasures and rare items the collector must no doubt have acquired at great expense.

>"Everytheeng here is one of a kind. It has taken me many years to fill out this gallery, and I am always looking for nyew items."
>>
No. 17044 ID: 45afb1

>>17037
Ask questions about several of the items to show your great interest. Might I suggest, the hat, the helmet, and the poster on the back wall?
>>
No. 17046 ID: ed8d8a

Try on Kamina glasses
>>
No. 17051 ID: bf652b

>>17037
Inquire about monster portal parts, and whether or not this fine gentleman would even consider parting with a piece from his collection in exchange for monetary retribution.
>>
No. 17053 ID: f373c2

>>17044
This, and try to make sure the portal gem is one of the things you ask about. But act like it's just idle curiosity; don't indicate that the gem is specifically what you're after.
>>
No. 17060 ID: c01408
File 124889428898.gif - (15.61KB , 800x600 , 250.gif )
17060

>"This painteeng was salvaged from the Cult of the Barbed Wheel in the Southeast, before their altar sank into the sea and they vanished from the face of the earth. Quite macabre, yes?"

"Your collection is truly impressive. This painting alone is worthy of a gallery. I wonder... do you have any magical curios to go with these? Portal gems, for instance?"
>>
No. 17064 ID: f95743

>>17051
What, like ADOM shopkeepers do when you walk off without paying? Getting your skull split open by a thrown coin really drives the point home.

Seriously, though. I doubt 11 coins will be enough to purchase a portal gem. This will require some sidequesting one way or the other, since we're not manly enough to just punch him in the face and take it.
>>
No. 17066 ID: f98e0b

>>17060
FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF
>>
No. 17072 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17060

Smooth.

Anyhow, while he's gone see if there's stuff you can steal. Barring that, see if you can swap anything for the junk you own.
>>
No. 17073 ID: c01408
File 124889462833.gif - (5.31KB , 800x600 , 251.gif )
17073

Copal looms over me. The man is gigantic.

>"Malto... you know, there was once a ruler in the south who went by that name. He was said to have a son, but they never found heem.
>Senor Malto... I know why you are really here."
>>
No. 17076 ID: 684c9b

>>17073
"Do you, now? Enlighten me..."
>>
No. 17077 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17073

"Then we can dispense with this little game. I require a Portal Gem. If you have one then speak now and we shall discuss compensation, but if not then do not try my patience any longer. I dislike being treated as a child in such matters. How do you know of these things in the first place?"
>>
No. 17079 ID: 6194e1

>>17077
Let him speak first.
>>
No. 17085 ID: c01408
File 124889518147.gif - (16.75KB , 800x600 , 252.gif )
17085

>"Of course I know. A man of your wealth and standing has certain eempulses. And a game of chance is the best remedy there is."
He opens a hidden door in the wall. Beyond lies a smoky room, where muffled and excited voices resonate.
>"Come, Senor Malto. Stay a while, and gamble with me."
>>
No. 17088 ID: 3fa7b7

>>17085

"Lovely." Join him. We just may be able to gamble a portal gem out of him.
>>
No. 17089 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17085

Follow him into the room. Pretend to know what the game of chance is even if you don't.
>>
No. 17100 ID: 2023c6

Gambling is bad, mmkay?

Come on! This is gonna be SO rigged.
>>
No. 17103 ID: 45afb1

>>17100
Then we rig it back in our favor.
>>
No. 17104 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17100

Unless we cheat like a sonovabitch
>>
No. 17108 ID: 1a6287

>>17100
And we can still stab him if we lose.
>>
No. 17112 ID: c01408
File 124889617694.gif - (11.33KB , 800x600 , 253.gif )
17112

Copal leads me into a darkened den full of incensed smoke so thick it obscures most of the open floor. A small bar is here, and a catfolk bartender serves a haggard-looking fellow who seems to be racing through glasses of alcohol at a serious detriment to his apparent health. The Collector and I sit at a small gambler's table.

>"So, Senor Malto, what would you like to bet today?"
>>
No. 17113 ID: 2023c6

Yeah, because stabbing rich people and taking their stuff tends to work so well in Roleplaying Games.
>>
No. 17116 ID: 7eda8b

>>17112
"This would depend on the stakes and the game, mm?"
>>
No. 17117 ID: bf652b

>>17112
OUR SOUL!!

No wait - what's in out inventory again?
>>
No. 17120 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17112

"No, no. I simply want a Portal Gem. You can ask for whatever you want should you happen to win. Now, are we playing or talking?"
>>
No. 17125 ID: 8ffee7

>>17112

How about the sword of the late Red Fang?
>>
No. 17126 ID: c01408
File 124889657314.gif - (11.46KB , 800x600 , 254.gif )
17126

"I suppose that depends on the stakes."
>"Senor Malto, as I'm sure you are aware, I am a High Roller. If there is sometheeng in my collection that catches your eye, seemply name it. Of course, I would expect sometheeng of value to be placed as collateral for when I win."

The man at the bar continues boozing heavily, sighing a shaky sigh between glasses.
>>
No. 17133 ID: f98e0b

Play the oldest game
:advicemudy.jpg:
Become a furry slave
>>
No. 17134 ID: 1afd58

>>17126
I seek nothing but a new Portal Gem. In return, you may name something of mine, and I will consider betting it.
>>
No. 17139 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17126

Dude. Soul. What has that fucker done for you lately?
>>
No. 17141 ID: 6164e0

>>17126
Bet ourselves.

We are the last of a royal line, the very definition of a rarity.
>>
No. 17144 ID: c01408
File 124889705891.gif - (11.21KB , 800x600 , 255.gif )
17144

"I want the portal gem in your collection."

>"Very well. It is a seemple theeng. Certainly one of my less exotic treasures. I would be willing to part with it... but what do you have to offer in return?"

The man at the bar howls with a grin.
>"COME ON, SEVEN!"
>>
No. 17146 ID: 1a6287

>>17144
The orb!
>>
No. 17147 ID: 3fa7b7

>>17144

Hold up the Orb of Infinite Psyche. "Will this do?"

Don't worry about the risk of losing us, Chief. We have faith in your ability to come out of this on top.
>>
No. 17148 ID: f98e0b

>>17144
That's no man.
Say you'll trade a lock of your hair (also say Volto hair is a prime ingredient of Male Enhancement Potions)
>>
No. 17149 ID: 7eda8b

>>17144
"I have this unique gnollish flyssa."

If that doesn't catch his eye, say "I also have this mysterious scroll."
>>
No. 17150 ID: 40dc56

bet the flyssa, guys
>>
No. 17151 ID: f98e0b

Perhaps the bloodstained tapestry is of some use to him?
>>
No. 17152 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17144

Offer the sword, a lock of your hair, or even your right to the throne.
>>
No. 17168 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17151

"A piece of dirty cloth COVERED in blood? Exactly what I need!"
>>
No. 17169 ID: c01408
File 124889780499.gif - (16.21KB , 800x600 , 256.gif )
17169

"A lock of my hair."
Copal just stares silently at me.
"Very well... I have the Flyssa of Red Fang and a magical scroll to-"
>"You are boring me with your hum-drum curios."
"My right to the throne. If I lose, the Kingdom will be yours."
>"The Keengdom is no longer under your control, Senor Malto. I suspect that is why you are here."

It's clear Copal has done his homework on me, and no sundries will suffice.

"Very well. Then I offer this: The Orb of Infinite Psyche. It contains a thousand voices of fractured conscious and subconscious. A never-ending sea of streaming thought swirls within this orb, speaking crazed whispers to the holder as they guide his path through life with an invisible hand.
One magical gemstone for another."
>>
No. 17170 ID: f98e0b

NO FUCK NO BOSS DON'T
>>
No. 17171 ID: f98e0b

>>17168
D:
It had pretty pictures
>>
No. 17172 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17170

Eh if worst comes to worst we'll just advise some new dude.
>>
No. 17173 ID: 3fa7b7

>>17169

"NOW we're cooking with gas! Let's win this shit and go home!"
>>
No. 17174 ID: 45afb1

>>17169
Hey boss, want us to rig this match for ya?
>>
No. 17177 ID: 1afd58

>>17169
Be sure to hold on to us while playing, Muschio.
>>
No. 17178 ID: 40dc56

you better win this
>>
No. 17182 ID: f95743

He might as well. That portal gem is the key to beginning our rule. If we do not get it, we might as well lose ourselves to this...rather eccentric persona.

Say, can we communicate with the new holder of the orb or is it directed only toward you?
>>
No. 17189 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17182

It says the orb lets the holder hear the voices. If he hands it over the other dude can hear us. Muschio, let him hold us if he wants to check it out for himself.
>>
No. 17195 ID: a5d1e9

>>17169
Hey if it loses, we might increase our stake in the world.
Surely our will can bend this other guy to doing fun things. And not locking us away in a vault (and closing the thread).
>>
No. 17196 ID: c01408
File 12488982586.gif - (27.12KB , 800x600 , 257.gif )
17196

>"I accept."
>>
No. 17197 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17196

"Good. Then let's get right to it. Name your game."

Be very confident, and be sure not to ask for rules even if you don't know them.
>>
No. 17198 ID: f44349

>>17196
I sure as hell hope you know what you're doing...
>>
No. 17200 ID: 35cea2

Muschio, if you are to lose the orb, you are to wait in town for a day, then come look for it!

By then, we probably will have be able to drive the man to suicide, or at least make him throw it away.
>>
No. 17201 ID: c01408
File 124889869579.gif - (11.72KB , 800x600 , 258.gif )
17201

Copal begins dealing cards out of a deck.
>"The game is Doubleblind Dry. Green cards are high, Gemstones are center."

I played this game often as a child, winning money from my peers en masse.
All I have to do is hope that luck is with me.
>>
No. 17206 ID: f44349

>>17201
...And that this guy doesn't cheat.
>>
No. 17207 ID: 6164e0

>>17201
....Hey boss, that guy who was pounding back the drinks behind you, he seems to be sitting in the perfect spot to see your cards, doesn't he?

It is possible that the Highroller cheats, so try and keep in mind the possibility that the two may be working in concert.
>>
No. 17208 ID: 197650

>>17206
NOONE cheats Muschio Malto, if he tries, he will pay for it!
>>
No. 17210 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17201

Peek at cards. Do not lift them off the table. I don't trust the people behind you.
>>
No. 17215 ID: c01408
File 12488993082.gif - (11.78KB , 800x600 , 259.gif )
17215

Copal mutters before picking up his cards.
>"High stakes. What do you say to one hand, one win, Senor Malto?"
I pick up my cards and begin to go through them.
As I consider my answer, Copal glances over to the man at the bar.

>"Nino! You've had an awful lot to drink this morning!"
The broad-faced man nods shakily, eyes wide.
>"Th-the doctor said I have a... p-PROBLEM."
>>
No. 17219 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17215

"One hand one win is the only way I play, sir."
>>
No. 17220 ID: 4d2ea2

>>17215
Signals. They're already cheating. Refuse and demand seating against a corner.
>>
No. 17221 ID: f44349

>>17215
Careful Muschio.
There's a distinct possibility that that was some kind of signal.
Don't let that guy behind you see your cards.
>>
No. 17222 ID: f98e0b

>>17215
Accuse the bastard.
>>
No. 17223 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17215

"By the way, it's Muschio."
>>
No. 17230 ID: c01408
File 124889989934.gif - (12.82KB , 800x600 , 260.gif )
17230

>>17215
The man suddenly roars.
>"...BUT HE CAN'T GET INTO THE HIGH ROLLERS LOUNGE!"
>>
No. 17235 ID: 1afd58

>>17230
<3ing Nino so hard.
>>
No. 17237 ID: 3fa7b7

>>17230

Set your cards face-down on the table so nobody can peek.
>>
No. 17241 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17230

Throw dagger at loud man, continue game.
>>
No. 17242 ID: 4d2ea2

>>17241
Better restart the game.
>>
No. 17245 ID: c01408
File 124890137250.gif - (14.08KB , 800x600 , 261.gif )
17245

I place the cards flat on the table to avoid cheating, having memorized them already.

It's a good hand, but certainly not a great hand. However it does leave me with a number of options.
I am to play 4 of the 6 cards.
The heart-pairs will come in handy in any hand I play. But as for the other two, I have a number of choices.
If I want a straight hand, I should play the stars and the green card. It's not very strong, but it can beat most weaker hands.
If I play the green card plus the gemstone, I'll be able to counter a green hand or a river, if he's trying to pull a tricky play on me.
Lastly, if I suspect he's got a VERY strong hand, I should play the gemstone plus the tower. It's a reversal and will give me the winning score.

It goes without saying that Copal's expression is all but impossible to read. I have to consider what he's most likely to use to form my strategy.
>>
No. 17249 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17245

Pair of hearts, and the gemstone+tower. Play 'em and let's rock
>>
No. 17250 ID: 35cea2

>>17245

What are the chances of a "green hand" or "river"?
>>
No. 17252 ID: a5d1e9

>>17245
Try to bluff him into acting as in a way you would expect given the bluff you perform.
>>
No. 17257 ID: f44349

>>17245
We've got to consider the possibility that this "high roller" has already cheated and knows your hand...
What would be his most likely course of action if he knew your hand...?
>>
No. 17264 ID: c01408
File 124890232970.gif - (11.61KB , 800x600 , 262.gif )
17264

>>17249
Somewhat high, if he's drawn better cards than me.

>>17257
>What would be his most likely course of action if he knew your hand...?
You're asking ME? I can't make that kind of decision.

In any case, I can't predict what he's going to do. What do I look like, a mind-reader?
But if you have some idea of which tactic he's most likely to try for, we should work around that.
>>
No. 17266 ID: a5d1e9

>>17264
What I am saying is make a bluff in some way or another, and play in a way that assumes he takes the bluff. Try to make yourself look like you are dissapointed with your hand (assuming it's decent) but didn't mean to telegraph the expression and act assuming he acts to take advantage of this.
>>
No. 17267 ID: 8ffee7

>>17264

Which is the least common method of winning? The man's a collector, so that's what he's likely to go for.
>>
No. 17269 ID: fb5d8e

GO ALL IN!
DON'T BEAT THE HIGH ROLLER, BE THE HIGH ROLLER!
THAT GEM IS YOURS ALREADY!
MUSCHIO MALTO, YOU ARE THE KING OF THE WOOOORRRLLDDDD!!!
>>
No. 17270 ID: f21281

>>17264
You could always give us (the orb) to him, then when he hands us back to you, we tell you what his cards are~
>>
No. 17272 ID: 6164e0

>>17270
Yeah, ask him if he would like to take a closer look. Offer it in the interest of Gentlemanly sportsmanship.

And then we read his mind for his cards and help you cheat when he hands us back.
>>
No. 17273 ID: f98e0b

>>17266
No no no, pretend to make a bluff and then play straight, seeing as he will have thought you were bluffing.
>>
No. 17274 ID: c01408
File 124890286231.gif - (11.71KB , 800x600 , 263.gif )
17274

>>17266
If I make it look like I have a stale hand, he's more likely to play a very strong hand to beat it through sheer power. I sigh as inaudibly as I can and begin nervously rolling the orb back and forth as I think.
>>
No. 17276 ID: 8ffee7

>>17267

To expound upon this, he has already mentioned that a portal gem is a fairly mundane trinket for his collection. He won't likely be too concerned with losing it, and is more likely to go for the more 'rare' victory since he can afford to use this as a game.

If the Greens and Rivers are a common victory method, he will almost assuredly not go for them.

I wouldn't count on a simple reversal, since playing the strongest hand possible would be the most common sort of victory, and it's unlikely that he would go for such a thing.
>>
No. 17277 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17274

Just laugh loudly, then play your hand decisively. Throw him off.
>>
No. 17278 ID: c01408
File 124890317155.gif - (11.99KB , 800x600 , 264.gif )
17278

Copal suddenly slams his hand down on the orb to stop it from moving.

>"That is quite enough of that. Do not try to deestract me."
>>
No. 17279 ID: 95484a

You could... "accidentally" knock us over towards him, and we might be able to read his hand. Then again, that's risky, if he already knows too much about us (or if some idiot warns him).

On the other hand, he is a "high roller," so the reversal might be the way to go.
>>
No. 17281 ID: 1afd58

>>17278
It's ok to play with your weak hand, Copal. He's holding nothing, and we'd much rather be with you anyway.
>>
No. 17282 ID: 7eda8b

>>17278
HELLO
>>
No. 17288 ID: f21281

>>17278
We look at his cards. Or his mind where his cards are. Iunno.
>>
No. 17291 ID: fb5d8e

Hey boss. Doesnt that guy look so tasty?
You want to manhandle that ass. Atleast get a kiss from that delicious face.
Come on, boss. Let's try to make a deal with him.
Let's gamble for his body instead.
>>
No. 17296 ID: c01408
File 124890348522.gif - (12.42KB , 800x600 , 265.gif )
17296

Look at him trying to bluff me.
Acting like he has a weak hand.
I can tell he is having great difficulty deciding.
He must have many options. That means a green card and probably a gemstone as well.
He's going to assume I have a strong hand. He might play against a green hand.
>It's ok to play with my weak hand
He will never expect me to play low.
He'll throw his cards without resistance and go completely over.
>>
No. 17299 ID: 6164e0

>>17278
Well now, this is a much more orderly looking mind than Muschio has. I like it. Hurry up and win us, will you? The guy has a shit hand, I imagine you could win with your weakest cards, and wouldn't that be a rare kind of victory, eh?
>>
No. 17300 ID: 1afd58

>>17296
Yes... play weak. Exploit his overconfidence.
>>
No. 17302 ID: 95484a

You should give back the orb now. It's not yours... yet.
>>
No. 17303 ID: c01408
File 124890369920.gif - (11.32KB , 800x600 , 266.gif )
17303

Copal places the orb back where it was.
I feel schizophrenic for a moment.

>"Are you quite ready, Senor Malto?"
>>
No. 17305 ID: 6164e0

>>17303
He is playing low, we have seen it!

Hurry, best him, win the Gem, and get back to your Vault. Many a nefarious and insidious act will then be committed!
>>
No. 17306 ID: 8ffee7

>>17303

Of course you are. You already know what to do.
>>
No. 17307 ID: 95484a

Welcome back, boss.

He's probably going to play low thinking you won't expect it, so keep that in mind. He also guessed right about the gemstone and green card.
>>
No. 17308 ID: f21281

>>17296
Waaait...might be a trap. Might have falsely said those thoughts to make us THINK he has a weak hand...
>>
No. 17309 ID: 1afd58

>>17303
Muschio, our better half, play to beat a weak hand.
>>
No. 17310 ID: f44349

>>17303
Hahah he has know idea how the orb works.
He's going to play weak.
Play the straight hand.
>>
No. 17312 ID: f373c2

He has deduced that you have a green card and a gemstone card. He expects you to do something tricky. Don't be tricky. He's playing a weak hand because he doesn't think you can make a stronger one. Make a stronger one.
>>
No. 17314 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17303

Boss this dude plays too much like you. Play high!
>>
No. 17316 ID: c01408
File 124890425951.gif - (11.35KB , 800x600 , 267.gif )
17316

I make my choice, and we lay our cards out.

Copal plays low, a weak hand meant to go under defenses.
I play the green card, the twin hearts, and the green card. It's a modest hand at best, but it trumps his easily and doesn't set itself up for any pitfalls.

I take the win.

>"Well, well, Senor Malto. It appears you are just as skilled a player as your father was. I am humbled.

>Very well. The portal gem is yours. My servant will have it waiteeng for you downstairs. It was an honor to match wits with you.
>Now please, leave me to the company of my fellow players."
>>
No. 17318 ID: f21281

>>17316
Anticipate a trap. He seems to be a sore loser.
>>
No. 17319 ID: 7eda8b

Smile, relieved.

"No hard feelings, I trust? It has been... a thrill."
>>
No. 17321 ID: 2cbe3e

>>17316

My father? What knowledge do you have of him?

ask it casually as you stand to go. We might have to kill this guy.
>>
No. 17323 ID: 95484a

Be sure to thank him politely. No need to make enemies by gloating, and besides, he could be useful later.
>>
No. 17324 ID: 35cea2

>>17316

Well you heard the man. Claim your prize!
>>
No. 17325 ID: 1afd58

>>17316
Take your prize, but be cautious leaving. His other players and whatnot plainly heard that you'd just won some item or another.
>>
No. 17330 ID: c01408
File 12489046159.gif - (9.66KB , 800x600 , 268.gif )
17330

I recover the orb and head out of the lounge.
"You knew my father?"

>"He was a great man. And I see his determeenation in you. I believe that one day you grow to overshadow even him.

>Good day, Senor Malto."
>>
No. 17333 ID: 1afd58

>>17330
Mark him as a possible hireling or ally later on. A casino in-house could easily serve to raise morale in your minions, if expertly run.

Otherwise, back to Finesse.
>>
No. 17336 ID: 197650

Pick up the gem and get back to your laire, Finesse will be most excited to see it.
>>
No. 17337 ID: 7eda8b

Turn towards the surly bargoer.

"Was there something you'd like to say?"
>>
No. 17338 ID: c01408
File 12489049897.gif - (9.15KB , 800x600 , 269.gif )
17338

>>
No. 17339 ID: 1afd58

>>17338
...Yes?
>>
No. 17341 ID: 7eda8b

>>17338
"Can I help you?"
>>
No. 17342 ID: c01408
File 124890556497.gif - (12.79KB , 800x600 , 270.gif )
17342

The doorman is there to greet me at the exit, as Copal promised.

>"Here you are, nya! Honored guest, please collect your winnings nyow, and do come again, nya!"
>>
No. 17343 ID: 1afd58

>>17342
Well, take it, nya~

It's ours by right, nya~
>>
No. 17344 ID: ac4254

Take it head back to base yadda yadda
>>
No. 17345 ID: 7eda8b

>>17342
Collect spoils. Return to your abode. Murder any cats that give you trouble and take their riches as well.
>>
No. 17346 ID: f44349

>>17342
Collect winnings
Consider the adorableness of that accent :3
>>
No. 17349 ID: 95484a

Hey, wait a minute.
>>13377
>>17060

Is it just me, or is there some similarity there, in the paintings? If we ever find ourselves needing something else of his, maybe we can see if he's at all interested.
>>
No. 17353 ID: c01408
File 124890603787.gif - (8.62KB , 800x600 , 271.gif )
17353

>>17343
>Well, take it, nya~
>It's ours by right, nya~
NO
BY THE GODS
DON'T TELL ME THAT VOCAL QUIRK IS GOING TO BE ECHOING IN MY THOUGHTS NOW
>>
No. 17354 ID: 1afd58

>>17353
nyaaaaaa~~~
>>
No. 17357 ID: 1a6287

>>17353
What are you talking about, nya~?
>>
No. 17358 ID: 9814a7

>>17353
Myaybe.
>>
No. 17359 ID: f44349

>>17353
Only because you think it's so cyute, nya~
>>
No. 17361 ID: acdc9b

Alright guys, that's enyough.
>>
No. 17363 ID: bffa2a

This is the thought police, stop right now. It's annoying.

Besides we need a money making scheme. Mayby they have tax collectors or merchants moving out of town.
>>
No. 17364 ID: 6164e0

>>17353
Dyon't worry, nya.

You'll get used to it, nya!
>>
No. 17371 ID: 7eda8b

TRANSLATE YOUR PAIN INTO RAGE WHICH WE WILL EXERT UPON THE WORLD
>>
No. 17379 ID: 67c611

Stop fucking with Malto guys.

[CHECK THE PACKAGE FOR THE GEM.]
Is that a gem or a package?
>>
No. 17382 ID: 6136db

SHATTER THEIR FRAIL BODIES AND DEVOUR THEIR ESSENCE!
REND BONE AND SINEW WITH YOUR STEEL TALON!
RIP, KILL, MAIM, BURN.
BURN THIS TOWN TO CINDERS AND TWIST THEIR HOLLOW FRAMES!
>>
No. 17388 ID: 197650

Just ignore them, they'll stop eventually... I hope.

Let's just get back to the laire and give Finesse her new tinker toy
>>
No. 17399 ID: 1afd58

Let us quickly back to Finesse and the kobolds. Who knows what may have happened in our absence?
>>
No. 17406 ID: 6136db

>>17399
That sounds like a plan, boss. Let's do that.

But you better remember this place boss, this looks like a good place to conquer once we get some power rolling.
>>
No. 17412 ID: 6136db

>>17406
Erm, but be careful of thieves on the way back. Who knows, maybe the high roller has hired thugs to get his property back.
>>
No. 17413 ID: 1afd58

>>17412
I dunno, he seemed a pretty stand-up guy.
>>
No. 18107 ID: f4963f

Take the gem. Keep it well concealed. Leave the city.
>>
No. 18115 ID: 9ac8e2

>>17353
Ooh! Let's make a big show to Finesse when we get back. Imagine how psyched she'll be! That girl is so nerdy, it's adorable.

Just imagine~
"Hey, Finesse, guess what I got~"
"What is it, Master?" (I never get tired of that word~ Especially from her~)
"It's a PORTAL GEM!"
"Oh, Master! You are truly amazing! The amazing Muschio!"
"Yes, yes, I know, I know..."

... nya~
>>
No. 18116 ID: da5997

Muschio! Hey, Muschio! Great job on getting that portal gem!



~nya
>>
No. 18369 ID: f2de2f

Hurry up and get back to the dungeon so you can start warping in evil minions, nya~
>>
No. 18845 ID: c01408
File 12490664922.gif - (14.96KB , 800x600 , 272.gif )
18845

With the portal gem securely in my possession, I decide it's time to head home.

I've obtained what I came for.
>>
No. 18846 ID: c42a37

>>18845
Hooray nyaa~!
>>
No. 18847 ID: 9a71e2

>>18845
Try not to collect any knives in the back on your way out.
I hear that sort of thing is contagious.

..Bossnya~
>>
No. 18848 ID: 6164e0

Don't show you noticed him boss, but someone is eying you from a nearby alleyway to your back right. Keep walking, but be ready.
>>
No. 18851 ID: 7e06c0

Maybe you should keep the grip of your sword in hand. Just in case.
>>
No. 18859 ID: c01408
File 124906723542.gif - (7.69KB , 800x600 , 273.gif )
18859

I decide to take the solitude of the walk home to mentally appraise a few facets of my situation.

Perhaps it is time to get some planning done. Perhaps some explanation is in order.

Well then -- what do you think? Are there any aspects of my immediate machinations which need explanation? Are there any elements of our current faculties which would warrant a mantled consideration?
>>
No. 18861 ID: fb5d8e

Looks like there's a hooker after your balls, if you know what I mean. Give him the old fivefinger teleport, if you know what I mean. He'll be dancing with the apes for weeks.
>>
No. 18862 ID: 96945d

>>18859
Well, boss, what do you plan to do once the portal is online? Are we going to siege other dungeons, or are we going to bide our time? I certainly don't think we'll start with attacking an actual TOWN.
>>
No. 18863 ID: 45afb1

>>18862
I have been thinking about that myself, why don't we have the monsters from the portal do our digging?
>>
No. 18864 ID: 7eda8b

>>18859
What is your current plan for obtaining a steady income?
>>
No. 18875 ID: 67c611

>>18859
Put that shit in your pocket.
>>
No. 18876 ID: c01408
File 124906819644.gif - (12.53KB , 800x600 , 274.gif )
18876

Income will flow more steadily when adventurers begin falling within the Vault, when we're able to siege towns, and when my minions begin establishing their own money-making ventures under my purview.

>>18862
>>18863
These questions can be better answered with an introduction of how a Monster Portal actually works.
You see, each Monster Portal is unique, attuned to the area it occupies. On the other side of this fantastic gateway is another realm, a place of holding, where magical and demonic creatures rest and prepare for the time they are called. It is a near-unfathomable dimension, full of horrors and wonders alike.

Creatures summoned out of this dimension are pure soul, bound by magical contract. As such, they require absolutely no monetary or physical compensation, and their loyalty is beyond question. The perfect soldiers.

There are two significant limitations:
First, monsters summoned through the portal require an initial expenditure of MANA, or raw lifeforce, in order to bridge the barrier between worlds. The more powerful the creature, the more mana the summoning ritual will require. After this, however, they require no salary.
More importantly, the portal can only summon types of monsters to which it has been attuned, and this can only be done with the use of imbued MANNIKINS. The mannikins provied the blank template which becomes empowered by the souls that are summoned. A single mannikin can hold untold many creatures of its own type.
>>
No. 18880 ID: 9a71e2

>>18876
Make sure to keep a watch out, bossnya~
>>
No. 18882 ID: 6136db

>>18876
Boss, does that mean that we can only use _one_, unos, Mannikin with our portal? Or can we have several types of Mannikins and use whichever we want at the time?
>>
No. 18884 ID: bde1b8

>>18876
Okay, that is pretty awesome. I assume you need to sacrifice creatures to get Mana? Or is there a less violent way to do it?

And also, what type of Mannikins do we have available? If we can get an Earth Element it would be perfect for setting up our dungeon. A Stone Elemental would dig through rock with ease.
>>
No. 18889 ID: fb5d8e

Boss, just wanted ta tell you that this is awesome, and you are awesome. Also quite cute.
Keep that in mind, chief.
>>
No. 18891 ID: c01408
File 124906902245.gif - (7.39KB , 800x600 , 275.gif )
18891

>>18882
No, of course not. A monster portal can be attuned to any unlimited number of mannikin types. It can just as easily summon Serpents as Elementals, should it be attuned to the necessary materials.

I don't know what types we have available. I'll have to see what Red Fang imbued the Portal with before I start summoning in my loyal minions.

MANA comes in a variety of places. It has been said that any grand act stirs the fabric of being and blesses those present with its power. Mana is also present in certain powerful magical and alchemical items and artifacts. Anything sufficiently arcane and divine will contain at least a faint trace of Mana.
Of course, because it is raw lifeforce, it is also present in every living thing. Upon shattering the bond any soul has with the mortal coil, that Mana is freed.

In short, I can stockpile Mana any time I rend a Mana source, do something amazing, or kill something.
Seems simple enough.
>>
No. 18893 ID: 95484a

>>18891
You can stockpile it? Did you get any when you killed Red Fang? That was lethal AND amazing.
>>
No. 18895 ID: 6136db

>>18891
That's good boss. Do we already have any Mana in store? Killing Red Fang was pretty amazing, boss. You should totally have gotten Mana for that.

(wordfiltered xp to mana)
>>
No. 18905 ID: 954933

>>18889
>ID: fb5d8e
Take it to WeaveReaveQuest, dude :|
>>
No. 18911 ID: 7eda8b

Sounds like we need to attract affluent adventurers rather than, say, the kind who spend all of their cash on equipment and then get it banged up (IE: we and every other adventurer ever).

Should we advertise?
>>
No. 18929 ID: 6136db

>>18911
Let's see about summoning some minions first.

Then we'll kidnap a princess and kill all the plumbers that try to rescue her. Plumbers are loaded with coins.
>>
No. 18932 ID: 7eda8b

By "advertise," I of course mean "very visibly send monsters out to raid."
>>
No. 18933 ID: c01408
File 124907094589.gif - (14.62KB , 800x600 , 276.gif )
18933

Normally, Mana is a less than tangible concept except in the hands of the proper diviners.

But with my compartmentalized mind, it's easy to make a mental summary of the Mana I've accumulated.
>>
No. 18935 ID: 1afd58

>>18933
Seems servicable. Let's wait till Finesse gets the portal back up and running, the little dear. She certainly seems the most capable of your current minions.

What will your duties be, Muschio? Certainly you can't just sit around in Red Fang's room all the time.
>>
No. 18936 ID: 7eda8b

>>18933
Meaningless until we get an idea of the 'prices' of summonings.

I think we have a pretty good run-down at the moment. Give Finesse the gem. Also... Whoops. We should have bought a pillow while in Sepia town.
>>
No. 18937 ID: 197650

Lets get that crystal back to Finesse, she will be ever so happy with it~
>>
No. 18938 ID: 6136db

>>18933
Hmm, boss, can any mana type be combined with any mannikin? If so, we have a lot of options, don't we boss?
It seems we have a lot of pain mana, boss. Is that from our run-in with the spear trap or killing the old occupants?
>>
No. 18942 ID: 96945d

>>18933
Got a lot of luck and pain mana there, boss.
I'm not looking forward to getting more of that after all those stabbings we received.
>>
No. 18943 ID: 6292a8

This is outrageous! Only 1 for mind?! According to this we've just been getting by on our luck and an ability to ignore pain!
>>
No. 18950 ID: 7eda8b

>>18943
Well... yes?
>>
No. 18951 ID: bde1b8

>>18935
We can if we are going to practice our evil laugh.
>>
No. 18954 ID: 9ac8e2

>>18933
Ahahaha! Pain. Pain is just weakness leaving the body, right?
I wonder what we could do with Mana entirely created from pain?
...
Speaking of which, does it matter at all what kind of Mana we get?
That is to say, would the creatures we summon be at all effected by having only the usage of Pain Mana, as opposed to Luck or Mind?
Would it alter their form? Their powers? Would we be limited to certain types? This is the sort of ponderance that could drastically change how we do things.
>>
No. 18957 ID: c01408
File 124907189274.gif - (14.46KB , 800x600 , 277.gif )
18957

I re-enter and make my way to the monster room, where I'm sure Finesse must be repairing the portal. But as soon as I step into the antechamber, Babrakus emerges from the storage room, beckoning me excitedly.

>"Boss! Hey, Boss, welcome back! C'mere, I gotta show you somethin'!"
>>
No. 18959 ID: 1afd58

>>18957
Well, ok, Babrakus. But show more respect next time please.
>>
No. 18960 ID: 6136db

>>18957
Uh-oh, bad vibes boss, bad vibes.
We need to get on top of this before it blows.
>>
No. 18961 ID: 6292a8

>>18957
Follow him with the hope that it's his penis.
>>
No. 18962 ID: bde1b8

>>18959
What do you mean, he called us Boss! The man is fine.

Follow the boldling, see what he has to show us.
>>
No. 18963 ID: c01408
File 124907227497.gif - (11.69KB , 800x600 , 278.gif )
18963

Babrakus leads me into the storeroom, where a small carpenter's workshop has been constructed in the corner.

>"Look, I built this as you was out! Not bad, huh?"

>Babrakus has constructed SMALL CARPENTRY SHOP.
>Babrakus will generate a small continuous income in the form of TRADE GOODS.
>Muschio can now buy furniture and wooden items from Babrakus at a very low commission!
>>
No. 18964 ID: bde1b8

>>18963
Congratulate him, Boss. He's earned it.
>>
No. 18966 ID: 6292a8

>>18963
Service him sexually in reward for a job well down.
>>
No. 18967 ID: 96945d

>>18963
Fantastic, income already!
That guy needs a pat on the back, boss.
>>
No. 18969 ID: 197650

Praise him for his innitiative and craftsman ship, we want to keep morality high!

then ask him where our Finesse is~
>>
No. 18970 ID: c42a37

>>18963
Sweet! Compliment your minion - this was exceptional initiative!

(Note to self: beware of initiative, this could lead to trouble down the line.)
>>
No. 18971 ID: 1afd58

>>18963
Congratulate Babrakus on his construction work and his initiative. He's done something good and deserves praise. He should also get to work at first convenience to start making goods.

Also talk to Finesse and give her the gem. Hope that she's not doing anything weird with Tislomer.
>>
No. 18972 ID: 9ac8e2

>>18963
Oh. Well.. that's very nice, actually.
Granted, we'll probably want something a little more regal than kobold crafts for our boss room, once we're rolling in dough.
But for now, it's a nice start. And some form of income is always good.
Compliment the kobold! He shows good, loyal initiative.
>>
No. 18980 ID: 7eda8b

>>18969
Excellent work. I say we start with a bed. Just as soon as we can figure out a place to put it.

...Say. Did we ever figure out what the grated passage in the ceiling of the antechamber is for?

>we want to keep morality high!
inigomontoya.jpg
>>
No. 18989 ID: 6136db

Excellent work, Babrakus. I'll want to inspect this later in detail, but right now I must see Finesse. Again, excellent work.
>>
No. 18993 ID: c01408
File 124907373356.gif - (14.07KB , 800x600 , 279.gif )
18993

I congratulate Babrakus on his success and compliment his initiative. He seems genuinely flattered.
>"Gee thanks boss. Just doin' what I do."

I briefly consider buying a bed, but it can wait. Asking the carpenterbold, he informs me Finesse is in the other room, working on the portal, as I had suspected.

I enter to find her kneeling and chipping at a runic band running down the Portal's stand. She notices me and wipes the beads of perspiration off her forehead.

>"Welcome home, Master. Good timing. Just putting the finishing touches on this thing."
>>
No. 18994 ID: 1afd58

>>18993
Good work, Finesse. You are a model goblin. Please, take this gemstone for the portal.
>>
No. 18996 ID: 7eda8b

>>18993
Say, "I've a finishing touch of my own," and produce the gem.

"I trust the experience did not disappoint?"
>>
No. 18997 ID: 55e935

Hand over the portal gem and watch the lightshow that's bound to happen once this thing's complete.
>>
No. 18998 ID: 6136db

>>18993
Excellent, Finesse. You've made very good time. You'll be happy to know I've managed to procure a Portal Gem for our use. *give it to her*
>>
No. 18999 ID: 9a71e2

>>18993
Produce portal gem.
Doodle a penis on the chalkboard while she is busy with that.
Leave.
>>
No. 19000 ID: 7eda8b

... Did somebody redraw the chalkboard?
>>
No. 19001 ID: fb5d8e

Look at her, boss. She's so gentle and hardworking. She'd make a perfect wife, a perfect queen to your empire.
Maybe not right now.. Maybe not tomorrow.. But don't let her out of your sight. She might become your greatest treasure yet.
>>
No. 19002 ID: 4e0411

>>18993
"My my, you certainly look... Hot."
*Point fingers at her like guns while wearing sunglasses and grinning*
>>
No. 19003 ID: 9ac8e2

>>18993
She looks absolutely exhausted! That poor girl. Once she's installed the gem, tell her to take a breather. Be sure to compliment her. She's really outdone herself!
... after she's installed the gem, of course.
>>
No. 19004 ID: 1afd58

>>19001
>>19002
NO SIR. NO SEX WITH GOBLINS. YOU'LL CATCH SOMETHING.
>>
No. 19005 ID: 95484a

>>18993
Didn't we clean off the chalkboard already?
>>
No. 19015 ID: c01408
File 12490748912.gif - (10.07KB , 800x600 , 280.gif )
19015

>"Did you get the piece?"

I hand over the Portal Gem with a flourish.
"But of course."

Her normally deadpan deadpan breaks for the first time into something more excitable. She turns the gem over in her non-antitropic hands manipulating it with care.

A building, wicked laughter shakes from the Tinker as her eyes seem to glaze.

>"Ohhh ho ho ho ho ho... oh Master, you've really made my day. I'm going to power this thing up right now!"
>>
No. 19018 ID: 1afd58

>>19015
Whoa, steady girl.
>>
No. 19020 ID: 9ac8e2

>>19015
She's so cute when she's acting all Mad Scientist.
It compliments our megalomania nicely, don't you think?
>>
No. 19021 ID: 6136db

>>19015
*DRAWN OUT INSANE LAUGHTER*
>>
No. 19022 ID: 2dd482

>>19015
>"Ohhh ho ho ho ho ho... oh Master"
"say that again"
>>
No. 19023 ID: 9a71e2

>>19015
Well, we know what gets HER gears grinding now.
Stay around to cackle.
>>
No. 19024 ID: 4e0411

>>19015
Struggle with building sexual tension
>>
No. 19027 ID: 9a71e2

>>19024
>Acquire AWKWARD BONER
>>
No. 19030 ID: da5997

"Finesse, can you construct us a beam weapon with which I could write upon the moon in letters of arcane fire? Would you like to try?"
>>
No. 19036 ID: c01408
File 124907580641.gif - (83.62KB , 800x600 , 281.gif )
19036

That exchange left me feeling a little uncomfortable, but I can't place exactly why.

Finesse sets the gem in the portal base and it immediately begins to swirl with arcane energy as the runes come to life.

Through the crackling vortex of ethereal energy, Finesse laughs with a very pleased-sounding tone, rubbing her palms together and watching the magical display with wide eyes.

[animated]
>>
No. 19038 ID: f72573

>>19036
Awesome, Boss!
>>
No. 19040 ID: 1afd58

>>19036
Well now. Time to discuss with our resident goblin the workings of the portal. Which mannequins do we have access to? What is the portal capable of generating? How much mana does each monster cost, and of which types? Does she have any mana to contribute?

Also congratulate her on getting her first monster portal working. There may be many more.
>>
No. 19041 ID: 6136db

>>19036
*hold out hands like you're grasping something and laugh like a madman*
>>
No. 19045 ID: 7eda8b

>>19036
Say "Yesssssssss."

Place your fingertips to the portal to establish dominance.
>>
No. 19048 ID: fb5d8e

It's allright, chief. Don't worry about that tingly little feeling. You'll find it to grow into a blazing fire in time, but it's nothing to be afraid of.
Let the goblin know she did a good job, and that you appreciate her hard work. Don't be scared to show a bit of your personal side. It's okay to live.
>>
No. 19049 ID: 9a71e2

>>19036
CACKLE AND ASSUME 'WRYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY' POSE.
>>
No. 19050 ID: c73b9f

>>19040
In addition, tell her that if she feels the need for it, she may take a rest for the remainder of the day. She has accomplished much.

Of course, she is welcome to watch our first summoning to see her work in action as well.
>>
No. 19051 ID: 82167e

>>19045
Punch portal in snout, etc etc.
>>
No. 19052 ID: 9ac8e2

>>19036
TIME TO SUMMON OUR FIRST MINION.
... How do we do that.
Where are the Mannikins?
Where's the Owner's Manual?
>>
No. 19055 ID: c01408
File 124907647625.gif - (15.60KB , 800x600 , 282.gif )
19055

>>19041
>>19049
The laughter spreads like a contagion. I decide to join in.

Finesse grins wickedly.
>"Master, I gotta see this thing in action right away. Gimme a mannikin!"

[animated]
>>
No. 19056 ID: 197650

You're just taking a liking to her, nothing wrong with that.

esspecially concidering what a cute little thing she is~
>>
No. 19057 ID: 4e0411
File 124907661775.jpg - (42.87KB , 513x387 , RAEG8.jpg )
19057

>>19055
"WHAT? You mean it needs new ones?"
>>
No. 19058 ID: 7eda8b

"Yes. Let's see what sort the previous owner used..."

Try the SMALL TOY SWORD and the STONE IN SMALL CASE. If those don't work, seems we're going back to town AGAIN.
>>
No. 19061 ID: f44349

>>19055
...We have a Mannikin right?
>>
No. 19062 ID: c73b9f

>>19055
A Mannekin?
What do we need to get a Mannikin?

Can the carpenter make one of wood, for wood golems and the like?
>>
No. 19063 ID: 95484a

>>19055
Well, this is just for a test run, right? Can we cobble one together with the materials at hand? Maybe some string and bits of wood could make something good enough.
>>
No. 19069 ID: 6136db

>>19055
"Just a moment, I'll fetch one."

NO WAY IN HELL LET HER USE IT.
NO FUCKING WAY.
YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE TO USE THIS PORTAL.
>>
No. 19074 ID: c01408
File 124907761979.gif - (6.20KB , 800x600 , 283.gif )
19074

A mannikin is like an ethereally-imbued totem. It requires a level of artificing far beyond the skills of most mortal men. There's absolutely no way I can just throw one together out of bits of cloth and wood.

"Well... I don't have one. I was thinking to start we'd just summon some of whatever kinds of creatures Red Fang had already attuned the Portal to."

Finesse's look of excitement disappears in an instant. There is a long and awkward silence as my Tinker stares at me.
I begin to feel very uncomfortable.

>"Master. The portal BROKE. We had to put in a completely new portal gem. This is a NEW portal. There's absolutely nothing attuned to it right now."
>>
No. 19075 ID: c01408
File 124907765792.gif - (17.00KB , 800x600 , 284.gif )
19075

>"I'm going to bed."
>>
No. 19077 ID: 96945d

Alright boss, uhh...

Breathe in.. Breathe out.. Then see if Red Fang had any unused mannikins. If not, we'll have to work from there.
>>
No. 19078 ID: 9a71e2

>>19074
Blush.
Sigh.
Head back out to town tomorrow.
>>
No. 19079 ID: db097e

I bet for a minute there you thought this was going to be easy, huh Boss?

Don't worry, I'm sure we'll be able to find one tomorrow.
>>
No. 19080 ID: 6136db

>>19075
Ok boss, minor setback.
Check again what loot we got from Red Fang. He must've had a mannikin around here somewhere. Possibly that junk in the chest?
>>
No. 19081 ID: 6164e0

>>19075
Right, I do believe we know our next goal:

Get some manniken and farm some monsters.
>>
No. 19082 ID: da5997

Check Red Fang's quarters again. See if there's any unused mannakins. ~nya
>>
No. 19083 ID: 9ac8e2

>>19075
FFFFFFF
... she was really into us for a few...
Ahem. Inform her that we'll be going out to get some Mannikins first thing in the morning.
FIRST THING.
... let's just go to bed.
>>
No. 19084 ID: c01408
File 124907793989.gif - (10.26KB , 800x600 , 285.gif )
19084

God damn it.
>>
No. 19085 ID: 1afd58

>>19074
Woman, you need to tell us this shit BEFORE it becomes a block in our plans.
>>
No. 19086 ID: 197650

Maybe we should tell her we didn't intent to get her hopes up.


Either way, where are we supposed to get a mannakin for the portal from?
>>
No. 19096 ID: c01408

TO EVERYONE SAYING "CHECK THE CHEST" OR "LOOK FOR ITEMS":
Muschio has already cleared the dungeon. Muschio has ALREADY gone through the chest.

A complete inventory of everything inside the dungeon was ALREADY tallied up and can be found here:
>>13656

If you're looking for a specific item, check that list. If it's not on the list, it's not in the dungeon.
>>
No. 19101 ID: da5997

Serious Suggestion: Marvel at the Job finesse did on the Portal. Go to her, in the morning, exclaim how pleased you are at the fact she got it working again, and the quality of the craftgoblinship. Offer her the permanant opportunity to execute any "MAD SCIENCE" ideas she may be working on, in her head, with you as her funder and benefactor, as long as they'll advance the lair, defend the lair, can be used to conquer, or be used to induce industry.
>>
No. 19102 ID: 6164e0

So, it seems obvious to me that we should bring the curiosities from the list to the portal, as they have the best chance of being mannikens.

It might work.
>>
No. 19103 ID: 1afd58

Consider our "Curios" items. Are any of them likely to be mannekins? They seem at least similar to the examples shown in the explanation page. Ask Finesse about it tomorrow.

Otherwise, probably have to go see if High Roller has more.
>>
No. 19104 ID: da5997

Any other locations that might contain abandoned or "relatively" unguarded Mannikins?

Any NATURAL Mannikins? Like Fairy rings or Standing Stones?

Would natural gateways function as Mannikins?
>>
No. 19108 ID: 4e0411

The animal skull and the stone in the box, show them to dear Finesse.
>>
No. 19126 ID: 605e28

I think a better question would be, how can we tell if something is a mannikin
>>
No. 19292 ID: 13034c

>Small case w/ stone
That's a fairly fey thing. It might be useful in the creation of a new mannikin.

If we end up having one created, we should use the following things:

1. the Flyssa, for offensive capability
2. the pickax, for utility
3. the skull, for aesthetics
>>
No. 19371 ID: c50199

Didn't he say that new mannikins can not be constructed?

We need to figure out what can be a mannikin, and then find one.
>>
No. 19564 ID: 13034c

>>19371
no, he said they can't be created by normal people. That means we could have one made if we find a suitably skilled individual who can be coerced into working for us. Theoretically, it also means we can do it ourselves if we become skilled in the craft, but that seems like more trouble than it's worth at the current moment
>>
No. 23091 ID: 6136db

In ur thread, bumping it.

I hope you aren't too pissed off with us, please give us chapter five. We promise not to be such idiots in the future?
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