ALLOTTER 2009/12/18(Fri)16:45 No. 93970 ID: e024d0
File 126118354934.jpg - (99.05KB , 1000x742 , Good Luck Mr_ White.jpg )

...you'll need it to make town by town by nightfall, Sorry this is as far as I can take yah! Them roads were never made fer cars", says the Driver before pulling away in a cloud of dust and hot exhaust.

I myself feel exhausted Having come so far to escape the pressing hands of the elders. They offered me the chance as the pastor of this small American nowhere and I took it.

Nowhere, It shall be a veritable utopia indeed compared to the watchful, careful eyes on me back east. Always afraid my past 'difficulties' would take a sudden turn for the worse.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/18(Fri)17:11 No. 93982 ID: e024d0
File 126118511843.jpg - (403.65KB , 1902x1626 , walking.jpg )

93979

"I suppose at least the hunting will be good out here?" I mumble to the winds, their soft whispers already filling my ears.

My shotgun is loaded for bird and over the wide grasses I can already hear the lonesome calls of various prairie beasts and fowl.

They say that men learn to talk to God in the desert, in the waste places. But I see no more blinding lights that the glowering sun, sinking unpleasantly over the horizon.

The local preacher has apparently been quite earnest to leave the small town, the exact name of which escapes me at this moment. "Somethinghills Mine" or some such nonsense.

I suppose I should be thankful, but I suspect the elders were just as eager to get an embarrassing reminder of past mistakes out of the house.

Leaving England wasn't even enough, my face was apparently known to some in the Northeast as well, along with the reputation and whispers that went with it.

But out here, maybe, maybe, things can be different...

What did you do to piss everyone off so badly?

>>93982

Do you have a house promised to you?

Why did the elders force this?

...Can you actually hear us?

ALLOTTER 2009/12/18(Fri)19:17 No. 94153 ID: e024d0
File 126119263623.jpg - (306.67KB , 1842x1503 , Seven Hills Walking.jpg )

Questions rise to me over the winds, symptoms of my introspective mind and a severe lack of good company no doubt. Ah there's the town's sign, "Seven Hill's Silver" sounds... familiar somehow.

The Driver said that the sign was about ten miles out. I could walk it tonight, but that wouldn't leave a good impression now then would it? Better to camp here perhaps, stride in with the morning sun, much more, fitting?

I cannot fail to make a good impression on the people, rural as they may be.

I am told the preacher is given a house near the town and I suppose that will fall to me with the church and grounds.

This is a step up in independence for me, after my curious meddling in the affairs of one of their own fallen they made quite sure to watch me closely. Afraid perhaps that his infectious, heretical nature would mani... no.. some boxes are best left closed, for now, that much I 'have' learned.

If I am to camp here, I wonder what I shall eat, I have some bread, wine and water, but...

Birds always makea tasty meal. I should be able to make a fire easily. We know how to survive and we can scrounge up what we need. A small camp under a tree, where we can set up a small blessing before we sleep

ALLOTTER 2009/12/18(Fri)21:01 No. 94218 ID: e024d0
File 126119887570.jpg - (301.75KB , 1705x1672 , Open field open season.jpg )

Mkay, getten pretty dark here, lets see what's what in the wild west. Where's a hunting dog when you need it?

>>94218
There's a bunny hiding behind a little ridge on the right, near the cactus.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/19(Sat)13:34 No. 94551 ID: e024d0
File 126125844431.jpg - (295.12KB , 1705x1672 , Shot 1.jpg )

>>94432
Aha gocha! FFFFfffdamnbunny...

>>94551
>>/questdis/317690

ALLOTTER 2009/12/19(Sat)14:03 No. 94584 ID: e024d0
File 126126023037.jpg - (299.42KB , 1705x1672 , Shot 2.jpg )

Yesss! Thank the Lord! I eat meat tonight, well, meat and a birdshot garnish, but meat all the same.

So...go get it, clean it, cook it, and eat it. Set up a small camp near a tree and pray for a good day tomorrow.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/19(Sat)17:25 No. 94789 ID: e024d0
File 126127235589.jpg - (269.13KB , 1820x1456 , Good Hunting.jpg )

S'kinda gamey, not much fat on it. But it isn't awful when I pick out the shot. I'll turn in in a few minutes I suppose. For now I enjoy the sights and sounds of night in a strange land.

The stars are very clear out here, very close. Its almost refreshing without the hot haze of dust hanging over everything. Somewhat chilly too when those moaning October breezes whisper through the tall grasses.

The sign, and thus my camp is set at the edge of the rise leading up into the hills themselves. I suppose some arbitrary seven of them are the eponymous 'Seven Hills" the mine and thus the town takes its name from.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/20(Sun)09:04 No. 95223 ID: e024d0
File 126132867667.gif - (1.05MB , 800x640 , Stars.gif )

...sleep...

ALLOTTER 2009/12/20(Sun)11:07 No. 95271 ID: e024d0
File 126133604977.gif - (1.19MB , 800x640 , Brilliant lights.gif )

Whyhuh?... What the hell?...dawn isn't for... is this a lighting storm or something? Where did the thunder go?

>>95271

Shit, go out and see what's up! this looks serious.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/20(Sun)16:46 No. 95508 ID: e024d0
File 126135641739.gif - (306.03KB , 596x479 , Whhhuutt.gif )

>>95273
I open the flaps of my tent and peer out into the hills.


"Mother of Mercy"


Pale light flares up sharply from the peak of a tall outcropping, like a ghostly twister the stars themselves seem to whirl about in orbits.

There is no sound. I am not sure if this is more unnerving than the sight itself.

Some kind of weather or astronomical anomaly perhaps? A meteorite or some strange eruption? A spiritual visitation even?

>>95508

Looks portentous. May be something important going on. You'll always question yourself if you don't go check.

Before we go I really should study this from a distance, watching it may spark a memory in my various studies. Physics and maths could help, and even my religious studies might be of some help. Common sense, after all.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/20(Sun)18:51 No. 95630 ID: e024d0
File 126136390454.gif - (567.33KB , 596x479 , Descending.gif )

Just as suddenly as it arrived the haunting vortex collapses and dissipates. In all it was coherent for about a minute, maybe less?

Somehow the texture of that light, it reminds my of what I used to do, before I was chosen to be a man of God. One of the instruments I worked with, it's radiance had a similar hue. I still have it, in my toolbag. I haven't found a need for it since the day.

I don't know why I even carry that bag around anymore, but it's good for odd jobs I suppose. People are more likely to accommodate you these days if you look like a working man.

Anyway, that light was a few miles away at least, could be near the town? I'll ask about it in the morning, assuming it doesn't come back, no way they couldn't have seen it.

Besides, no sense in chasing a faery fire across the horizon in the dark of an unfamiliar land.

Maybe I should look at that thing, to jog my memory.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/21(Mon)17:03 No. 96122 ID: e024d0
File 126144382977.jpg - (254.26KB , 1000x901 , Walking down that lonesome road.jpg )

I break camp slightly after dawn and continue down the path towards town. the sky is bright and clear and holds little intent of a repeat of last night's 'display.'

I wonder if perhaps it could be related to some kind of local magnetic disturbance? Perhaps in the fashion of the Aurora Borealis, except in a more localized form.

Regardless, unless my eyes fail me nothing seems out of place in the full light of the day (unless of course my faded eyesight deceives me?) Perhaps is was merely a dream brought on by game meat and my somber thoughts of the past days.

>>96122
Nothing there? What about the smoking crater on top of the hill?

>>96122
The Shadow. Why is in the shape of a cross? Look up, that cactus might have something up top. Also Hole. Also bush with thing in it.

>>96122

Anything interesting in that hole to your left?

>>96122
...what about the sudden lack of ground about 10 feet ahead?

ALLOTTER 2009/12/21(Mon)18:27 No. 96212 ID: e024d0
File 126144887945.jpg - (41.63KB , 1000x901 , it is a hole.jpg )

Looks to be the burrow of one of the many endemic ground game of North America. A prairie dog I think they are called.

The depression must be hard on these fellows, they are fat and quite edible I hear, as well as being a major pest with their gnawing teeth.

>>96122
Inspect that telephone pole more closely. There are strange marks on the side.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/21(Mon)18:47 No. 96231 ID: e024d0
File 126145002191.jpg - (25.64KB , 279x399 , Crux Potentia.jpg )

hmmm I suppose I never really noticed how similar the Cross and a utility pole were before, quite the modern Crux Potentia.

Light, voices and so many more modern conveniences and in this scientific ages we rely on unnoticed, unseen, and distant energies and effort for it all.

Perhaps I can develop that into a sermon of some kind?

Those 'burn?' marks do look odd though... perhaps some kind of... I don't really know... it 'is' making an odd buzzing noise now that I stop and listen.

But if I don't hurry, I'll not make it to town before lunch.

Should I...?

>>96231

Stay and listen.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/21(Mon)19:58 No. 96313 ID: e024d0
File 126145432055.jpg - (104.54KB , 858x556 , Humming.jpg )

Yes... It is humming, or more, likely buzzing.

I am sure of it, and those 'marks' lead up to the opened box up there? I suppose someone should do something about that.

>>96313

Can you do anything about it? Don't wanna get shocked and die out here.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/22(Tue)12:57 No. 96586 ID: e024d0
File 126151543334.jpg - (52.11KB , 800x800 , My Old Green Toolbag.jpg )

I always prefer to wear my gloves, and I do have some things in my toolbag that could help.

>>96586
Well, if you think you can do it safely, go check it out.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/22(Tue)15:16 No. 96644 ID: e024d0
File 126152378223.jpg - (226.30KB , 1000x901 , A tall job.jpg )

>>96608
I suppose I can take a look at least, let me just climb on up here and see...

ALLOTTER 2009/12/22(Tue)15:24 No. 96656 ID: e024d0
File 12615242878.jpg - (275.03KB , 1000x676 , A series of tubes.jpg )

>>96644
hmmm lets see, Ahh, I think there may be a problem in here.

Okaaaay, its been a while since I've actually worked with any physical equipment, I see some wires, some thermionic valves, some knobs and ends...

>>96656

I believe those wires to the right are not connected.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/22(Tue)17:04 No. 96713 ID: e024d0
File 126153025793.gif - (0.96MB , 537x348 , Crazzap.gif )

Ahh yes, lets just... and there and... whoaoaoah! *crrzzzzzzaapthissss*

ALLOTTER 2009/12/22(Tue)17:09 No. 96716 ID: e024d0
File 126153056142.jpg - (244.85KB , 1000x901 , Quite energetic for his age.jpg )

*cough* *cough* eheheehhaaaw...

Whell then, that was certainly fun, I suppose.

I guess, I can take credit for whatever that was down at the town, maybe they will be more inclined to keep me if I can do more than blow wind through their ears ehh?

Let there be light! an all that...

Now, to find my hat.

>>96716
It's on the cactus over there.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/23(Wed)08:21 No. 96999 ID: e024d0
File 126158528164.jpg - (102.13KB , 1000x740 , Bigtree Butte.jpg )

Why yes, yes it is, hehe, probably looks better on him than me anyhow, but I paid good money for that hat and the sun is ridiculous out here in the midday so I had best recover it.

The trail itself winds up into the hills and upon passing the final bend I am treated to this sight.

Ahh, finally I can see the town, perhaps there will be some answers here... or at least a good bed to sleep on.

Ok, who's your contact in the town, and where's more likely to find him?

Lacking one, I'd say checking your new parish is priority. If you feel like resting a bit first, I'm sure the saloon will have some water, and will give you a glimpse of the local scum.

>>97005
I think the saloon is a good idea. Introduce yourself to the locals, they might want to get to know their new shepherd.

ALLOTTER 2009/12/23(Wed)19:41 No. 97231 ID: e024d0
File 126162606988.jpg - (168.26KB , 991x694 , Entering town.jpg )

Finally, civilization, or at least the semblance of it. It's primarily just a main road surrounded by peeling buildings of almost every type. This main road is strewn is gravel to likely prevent mud but not, a paving-stone or walkway in sight.

I suppose I might go have look in the local Saloon and survey the rougher faces and hearts of the locale.

Besides, I could do with a drink myself after the long trip and it would be




ERROR ZODIAC SHARD IMAGE ARCHIVAL ANOMALY...
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Thanks for the replies and suggestions gentlemen, I hope to return after the holidays with more posts, as well as more important and interesting decisions to make (now that we have actually arrived in town.)

ALLOTTER 2010/01/05(Tue)19:09 No. 105891 ID: 059c31
File 126274738312.jpg - (240.28KB , 1000x662 , SALOON CLOSED.jpg )

>>97231

ZODIAC SHARD IMAGE ARCHIVE REACTIVATED
Archive Administrative accesses approved for:/ <Mad Dog>
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Initialized


"...a welcome pleasure to knock back a cold drink after that long and dusty trip up here. Well, then this seems to the local drinking and dining establishment, a little crudely build and colorfully named but...

...'what' exactly is this suppose to mean?"

ALLOTTER 2010/01/05(Tue)20:22 No. 105935 ID: 059c31
File 126275173924.jpg - (245.81KB , 1000x662 , Cautious Disaproval.jpg )

>>105891
"Means the Saloon's closed yah boozehound so's yah might as well keep on walken back the way yah came, been closed since Congress killed it in 1919... not that the minen troubles didn't kill the town anyway."

"erhm?" I snap out of my contemplation as some nosy townswoman continues her yammering in my ear.

"I can't imagine why yah came here, whoever yah er, but we've got 'nough troubles here without a new face... been a death in town and so's we got our own dead to bury n' all that."

"I erh I'm...

What are you waiting for? Offer to help with the funeral. They probably do not have a man of God in town.

>>105935
Well, you are the new pastor. Introduce yourself.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/06(Wed)07:13 No. 106205 ID: 059c31
File 126279078018.jpg - (155.95KB , 800x513 , Best hand forward.jpg )

>>106182
>>106151
I put on my most ingratiating smile and turn..."aw well how convenient, then I suppose you will be needing someone to direct the funeral and administer rites. You see I'm actually here because I was appointed to be the new minister in this town, heard the old one wanted to retire or something along those lines..."

She interrupts me before I can finish my spiel "Yah well that does seem very... convenient. 'cause that's exactly who you're gunna be putten tah rest.

Poor Mr. McKenzie couldn't take take to liven in a desolate nowhere like here I recon and sometime last night there were some shots, last one musta been him getten himself outa here... course he was under alot o stress after his house burned down an he'd taken tah liven in the loft o the Church itself fer the past few months."

... "erm uhhh" A flood of questions rise to my mind, not the least of which is why I am not immediately trying to find the first train, car, coach, or wagon out of here.

> -psst- this is the part where you guys are supposed to suggest a response or question or something... I don't like doing cut-scenes but I can't do much else if I don't get responses...

>>106205

Brush it off with an offhanded comment, and ask about that storm last night. Sure was somethin', huh?

Wait, his house burned down so he shot himself? And missed at least once? It sounds like someone was trying to kill him.

Ask where the church is.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/06(Wed)20:12 No. 106637 ID: 059c31
File 126283753089.jpg - (146.49KB , 800x513 , So___ about that weather.jpg )

>>106503
>>106572
I run my fingers through my hair trying to keep cool and rational despite the late October heat.

"Ah ehh, yes.. I believe that's what those of us in the cloth would call and Act of Providence... I mean, me showing up so fortuitously of course not the er I supose...

So about that weather hehe... the uh storm last night was 'impressive' to say the least?" My nervous chuckle doesn't seem to amuse her much.

"Heard no storm last night... must be talken bout them ghost lights, burnen in the sky some rare nights from the big rock... Injun tales told 'bout how the spirits fought battles here once and still... decent people don't wander bout much when them lights are shinen"

"I see... can you point me towards the church, I really must be seeing to it, I am sure there is much to be done."

She points out the steeple rising over the tops of the lower shacks and clapboard architecture of the desolate town's houses.

Dare I go, or is there more I should learn first?

Ask where his house used to be, you'll be wanting to know that later on. After that just go to the church.

More questions later. Nod, thank her for her time, and go check your new church.

Hmn. Actually, I'm really curious if the old reverend ended himself or not. If we know enough about these forensic things, I suggest going to the undertaker or the sheriff check the body first, then we go to the church. I'm sure we can make up a good excuse to check the body.

Sounds to me that if there were several shots fired, the ex-pastor was unlikely to have been alone. Still, that's something that can be discovered as we play Detective in the Church

>>106637

Ask what sort of man the last pastor was.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/07(Thu)14:28 No. 107208 ID: 059c31
File 126290333289.jpg - (97.60KB , 800x600 , Good day to you.jpg )

"...And the body would be?" I ask.

"Still at the church ah reckon, Sheriff said he didn't want nobody disturben nothen while's he looked it over."

"and the late erh... Mr. McKenzie's house?"

"Behind the church... or t'was anyhow..."

"About him, was he a -erh- particularly sensitive man?"

"Naw he were mostly quiet n'...solid-like, least after the minen problems started and the town started witheren away... used to take a great deal of interest in their safety... when the accidents started happenen, and the miners started leaven he just kinda... drew into himself... the fire made it worse on him I reckon, started to take long walks alone... I suppose some people can't take all the lonelyness awt here..."

I draw the conversation to a close and hastily bid her a good afternoon as I head on my way to the Church... my mind abuzz with a sort of dangerous curiosity I have not had since... since, before all this.

>>107208

Let's put your stuff in the house before tending to the church.

Make a mental note to attempt to teach these local rubes some proper English. Then proceed to the church.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/07(Thu)22:49 No. 107605 ID: 059c31
File 126293338437.jpg - (69.42KB , 577x776 , Aproaching the church.jpg )

I consider that the educational and dialectic standards of the town are not quite up to the Queen's exemplar.

However my considerations, as well as the weight of my bags are set aside for a moment as I prepare to enter what should be my new post of office, but is now becoming a rather grimmer prospect.

I hear muted voices from the loft window...

I know its cliché to approach the window to listen in, but nah. Just walk in. Sneakiness at this point wont make you look good. Try to be naturally quiet, and you hould catch a glimpse of what they're talking about.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/08(Fri)13:52 No. 107784 ID: 059c31
File 126298753392.jpg - (79.70KB , 994x769 , Looking up the stairs.jpg )

>>107683
I quietly enter, careful to avoid letting the door slam or creak (as large old doors are wont to to.)

From the entryway find a set of stairs to the right leading to the loft in the rear of the chapel... the voices are clearer now and I catch some snatches of conversation before a stair creaks and silences it.

"...but th... merks on 'is legs..."

"Wen't just a gunshot... I'll recon.."

"but ... entry angle, then... the spray is all..."

"I know, I know... in over his head... didn't know how far..."

"Those damn shafts.. have to close them... befor"

" ruins... open up aga.. sides his markens keep em... ay"

"... won't last..."

"Hey! Shut up, did you hear that? Who's down there?"

Cool. Casual. Let them come to you.
Seems like they're just discussing the deader, and you are supposed to be here, so, no point in getting desperate. Just play it as if you always had a light step.

>>107784
I disagree with letting them come to you. If they've been having a private conversation and have just been alerted to your presence, letting them come to YOU makes it seems like they've caught an eavesdropper. Instead, it's better to walk up as if you just arrived and heard nothing. Let's discover who we've met before we decide what to talk about.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/09(Sat)12:59 No. 108110 ID: cf41a7
File 126307078926.jpg - (53.93KB , 595x600 , Untitled.jpg )

I take the middle ground between caution and boldness and continue to step forward being careful to remain as quiet as I was before. While putting out an air of careless ease.

"Hello gentlemen, it seems I came just in a time of need, my name is Mr. White... I am your new minister, though I was somewhat expecting to..."

"You can just stop right there partner... now that I've got your face in the light... I have a few questions and I am sure you have a few of your own.

First things first, my name is Samuel Parker, Sheriff round these parts... my associate back there, trying to clean the blood off the floor is Aron Gibbs, my deputy.

Seems your predecessor snapped last night, got a little too gun loving. We'll be inspecting the scene for evidence and cleaning up, till then I'm 'fraid you'll have to stay down.

So... what do you want to know?"

What's he got in his hand? Some Belmont-style whip? Anyway go ahead and greet him politely, no reason to make an enemy of someone who you'll probably need to get to trust you. I also wouldn't want to seem too inquisitive, lest he become suspicious or something, but I suppose I'd generally inquire about the state of the church, town, assembly, and if necessary any sort of explanation of what kind of things they'd all expect of you.

Tell them you were curious as to how many shots were fired, as you've heard various accounts as to make you confused. Then wait so he can ask you a question.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/09(Sat)16:45 No. 108185 ID: cf41a7
File 126308433557.jpg - (53.70KB , 595x600 , an easy draw.jpg )

>>108165
>>108139
I attempt to insert my more "investigative" questions subtly among the more clerical and social inquires I can think up.

"I simply have want to be informed about the kind of community I will be serving"

>"Aheh, "community"... this place was always nothing more that a boomtown" can't raise much cattle, the rocks and hills make is too hard a plow 'cept by hand I figure..."

"Them my main ministry would be to the miner's I imagine.. the proverbial lifeblood of the town?"

>"Would be, if this town had any life left in it. Mine started haven... troubles... the scerred ones left like they alwus like tah do, then the Big Dam Project a ways out took the rest. Nothen but women n' few children left anymore. Most places just closed down... even Ned is moven out, sellen his store after... after last night."

I suppose such a sorrowful state could drive some sensitive men to extremes... I suppose he was even struggling to the end with it, I heard the first shot wasn't the killer."

>"He had a pistol, a little snub .32 he kept, three shots it was, three shells.... Anything else?"

Gads what the town could do with a good English teacher.

Anyway if you're asked any questions, be completely honest but refrain from revealing anything that'd be too odd. Generally answer with just whatever's necessary, and then tangent into a joyous talk about Da Lord or England or The Weather or My Aunt Emma's Arthritis. The big question of course is WHAT WENT WRONG WITH DEM MINES? but now's probably not the time to delve in deeper. Perhaps you should suggest with all the women and children, they reform the town into a huge brothel?

>>108185
You know, it's odd that the pastor would kill himself just before his replacement showed up. It's almost as if someone wanted to silence him before he was able to inform his replacement about certain important things.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/10(Sun)09:53 No. 108754 ID: cf41a7
File 126314602259.jpg - (49.72KB , 595x600 , pondering reflectivly.jpg )

The air is filled with a dry, cottony silence as I reflect on the facts. Mad considerations and ideas flit through my frame of reference like bats through a cave. Those mines... someone is hiding something about this town.

There is something here worth killing over...

I finally find the most simple and logical question I can imagine, "So.... where am I going to sleep tonight?"

>"I reckon we can let the hotel put you up for the night, Ernest Giles, he lives there and can get you a room. Haven't had many other guests I'm afraid."

"I see."

I consider that this may be a good place to end the conversation, clear my head for a moment outside in the streets and the daylight... this is growing rather awkward, and the smell is beginning to get to me.

>>108754

Perhaps later tonight you could go and sneak into this place. I find it suspicious that they don't want you to see the body so much.

Anyhow, for now let's thank them for their time and head over to the hotel. Maybe visiting the mine would be a good idea as well.

Filthy lying sheriff had no questions for you! Hmm, so the whole town's roughly going out of business but they've still got a hotel (with plenty of spare rooms)? Sounds like another argument for the brothel solution...

Anyway, you'll probably want to head over and check the hotel out... maybe shave and run a comb through your hair. And of course let's meet the innkeeper before we decide what we do later in the night.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/10(Sun)15:18 No. 108867 ID: cf41a7
File 126316549553.jpg - (65.82KB , 645x593 , What the hell.jpg )

As I leave the Sheriff asks to see my papers... I can find no good reason to deny him and he of course can find nothing in error. My letter of commendation is quite genuine, as are my passport and licenses. He then directs me to the hotel up the hill and I take my hasty leave.

Outside I realize just how much I want a bath. The sweat and grim of the road, is thick on me. The metallic stench of blood still lingers in my nostrils.

The deputy was mumbling something about "taking ehm down to Clara's teh get fitted..." It's about three in the afternoon now, after getting a room, and maybe freshening up. I can go find out where this "Clara" is... maybe get a chance to inspect the corpse...

What am I even doing here? What can I do here? a few thoughts flash though my mind: wait for my own death to come in the night? say nothing? start sleeping with a gun in my hand? run back to England? hide out and start a bro..(wait, what? that's utterly ridiculous!)


No, I am resolved not to die, nor am I some mere coward in the cloth! I will uncover the truth here... bloody or not.

But first... about that bath.

All right so it's time to meet our local innkeep, likely have just a little harmless chat with him because innkeepers are rarely significant characters. And yes, take a bath and a shave (preferably a bath with clear undisturbed water and an overhead camera), as we will want to be looking our best for new introductions, especially with this CLARA... who is likely the mortician or simply a tailor who loves to clothe cadavers. Either way it gets us a possibly method to examine the body without going through the semi-hostile sheriff.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/10(Sun)16:57 No. 108913 ID: cf41a7
File 126317145213.jpg - (314.88KB , 1000x889 , The Mad Goat Hotel.jpg )

>>108900
Yes, Clara is probably their mortician or something, they said the town was short on men so...

I enter the hotel, I hear the humming of a refrigerator somewhere in another room, and the dusty chandelier above me seems wired for electric. Finally.. some speck of civilization!

>"Well hey there fella, welcome to 'The Mad Goat Hotel.' I heard there was a stranger in town today. You're in luck, the electric finally came back on earlier today, so all facilities are working. Anything specific I can do you for or just will it just be a room sir?"

Ask what the story behind the hotels name is

Tell him with all seriousness that you're here to see The Goat. Though I suppose you should just introduce yourself, exchange pleasantries, ask about the electrical problems, then get to see your room.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/10(Sun)20:00 No. 108959 ID: cf41a7
File 12631824543.jpg - (313.54KB , 1000x889 , ehh.jpg )

>>108957
"Mad Goat huh? Colorful name for a hotel isn't it? There a story behind that?"

>"Hell if I really know... I'm like the third or fourth owner of this blasted joint, if I had known business was going to slow to a crawl I would have never have bought the damn thing.

>But the rumor is its probably about those mineral streams that bubble up around here, colorful they are, but I wouldn't want to drink too much of them. Make even a goat tipsy, an everyone knows if they can't stomach it, you don't want to either."

"So those electrical problems? They normal?"

>"Not quite, I think, the whole town's power cut out about 2 days ago, it only just came back on this morning. Oh and by the way.. the rooms are 3.50 a night."

"3.50 a night? Isn't that a bit, high for the middle of nowhere?"

The sheriff said that the hotel would "put you up," correct? Now I'm not sure, but that sounds to ME like "free of charge." Anyway, mentally slap yourself for claiming the place is the middle of nowhere. YOU'RE here, so it might as well be the center of the universe, no? 'sides, guy's got to make a living.
And the electrical problems... two days ago... well let's keep that in mind, see if anything else COINCIDENTALLY happened two days ago.

It's true, the sheriff said they'd put you up, he could be trying to rip you off. If it's just for one night I understand, but it seemed like he meant for you to stay indefinitely. Query about this.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/11(Mon)16:01 No. 109213 ID: cf41a7
File 126325449728.jpg - (62.36KB , 792x588 , A hot bath.jpg )

It seems that part of the price includes the individual bathrooms, hot water and all... quite the conveniences for something build some time ago.

Not terrible, but I 'am' able to bring him down to three dollars when I mention that I am the new Minister and the unfortunate reason for my current stay...

Make a mental note to have God invent Nair already. Then buy a carton. ...Yeesh.

Alternatively, stand up and turn ninety degrees to your right.... for no apparent reason.

In all seriousness.... Yay clean. Time to swindle a seamstress out of some delicious information

ALLOTTER 2010/01/11(Mon)16:43 No. 109231 ID: cf41a7
File 126325702577.gif - (739.78KB , 792x588 , kinda___ sleepy.gif )

Yes I suppose I should get going, but this water feels so good... I wonder... if that.. legend... is true...... about...... but then....then..... where do they... get this...
so.. sleepy... no... the stairs... not... again....not... the dream again... if only... I had..... must.. climb.... the stairs..... the room.... room of the dead... priest...

>>109231
Climb the stairs.

>>109231
Don't drown.

Clearly the next thing to do is to slip into unconsciousness, fall beneath the surface of the water and suffocate. But failing that, go through a voyage of self discovery and reaffirm your reasons for your existence.

Get out of the water, it's bad!

ALLOTTER 2010/01/11(Mon)17:55 No. 109268 ID: cf41a7
File 126326132716.jpg - (40.29KB , 800x600 , I see.jpg )

>"In here.. this is where he stayed... just don't.. table... like to look at it."

The man with the lantern takes his leave downstairs... I am alone in the room now... again.. returned to this dim attic apartment.

Hmm, an attic apartment. Fireplace, chair, shelves... and I think that blue blur is perhaps an easychair. Now what's interesting is the black blob on the table, it's the only not-blurry image, though it's still unrecognizable. If possible, attempt to focus and determine what it is.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/11(Mon)18:51 No. 109323 ID: cf41a7
File 126326470478.jpg - (26.01KB , 800x600 , Yes the box.jpg )

>>109290
yes... yes... it is always here... like it was then... the box... I came because this room... it belonged to someone... someone.. unusual... I can see... the sunset over the rooftops of an old... English... town.

I stare... the box... the small box... the black box... the small black box... that queer black artifact...

After he died so strangely... why did he leave it? What was it for... none the less... I have the tools... my sciences to tell me... to tell me.. the truth.

All right almost-blondie... there's clearly only one thing to do at a moment like this (which, technically, has already happened). In order to discover the truth and set your conscience to rest... you must swallow the box.

DO IT.

DON'T ASK QUESTIONS.

EAT IT.

>>109323
Use your science on the box!

>>109323
set BOX on FIRE!

BLOW THE BOX UP.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/11(Mon)20:22 No. 109427 ID: cf41a7
File 126327015939.jpg - (22.80KB , 800x600 , I shall eat it for SCIENCE.jpg )

Yes... the box.. it is...it is a part of me... but I must see into it... it's as though light... cannot escape the box... ahah but I know a trick... I will shine "my light"... the light I made...the light that shows me things... the light I keep in my green toolbag.... and I will eat it's secrets... I shall grow full... of the knowledge in this box... with that knowledge I will burn bright... brighter than any man before me...

Yes. Burn it. Burn it to the ground.

It's most definitely evil, you must burn it.

Alright skele-hands, let's do this. Get your whatevermagig out of your green bag and lets start poking and prodding at the box. If it is power, make it yours. If it's knowledge, well knowledge is power, so MAKE IT YOURS.

...but can your body take it?!

Bad idea, bad idea, step away, not meant to know, just dont, dont dontdontdontdon

ALLOTTER 2010/01/12(Tue)10:59 No. 109684 ID: cf41a7
File 126332274510.gif - (680.07KB , 600x800 , The light.gif )

I retrieve what looked like a flashlight... the flashlight that is not a flashlight... I know... because I had a flashlight in my pocket and draw/drew close to inspect the.. wait..

yes yes perhaps some... caution should/was be taken... I step/ped back a little and avoid/ed... touching the artifact.

The device puts out a bluish purple light at first.. but the the beam focused.. and changed... more like tiny particles that mere light... it was/is as if like the box...responds/ed... an internal glow...wait...someone is coming up the stairs!

Have you been here before? Seen this before? Do you know who's the one coming downstairs?

>>109684

Grab the box and go hide.

Flashlight that's not a flashlight... I got it.
It's a fleshlight.

*COUGH* Okay yeah I'd suggest somehow grabbing the box without touching it... maybe wrapping it in your shirt or HAT or something, probably putting it in your bag for the moment, then either go hide if you think whatever's coming is against you, or just calmly turn around if it's someone you know/expect.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/12(Tue)12:49 No. 109707 ID: cf41a7
File 126332934074.jpg - (36.36KB , 800x600 , Already here.jpg )

I turn.... to find a place to hide... they were already here... they did/don't even notice me... roomful clergymen deep in passionate debate.. one seems to stand accused... but he is the dead man...how?

damn...zombies. they're clearly a cult of zombies bent to ravage the world. You're the only hope the world has to stop them before they become too powerful. Smite them with the power of the artifact!

...That, or just stay low and quiet and try to figure out what's going on and what's being said.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/12(Tue)15:36 No. 109775 ID: a56bd0
File 126333940672.jpg - (29.63KB , 800x600 , burning away.jpg )

With a blur... a flurry of black coats and righteous indignation they take/took their leave... the one is/was/had been? alone now... the dead one... the dark one... he is burning his books in wrath... strange colors and odors coil up from the ancient texts... he looks/looked/was looking despondantly about him... as if expecting/ed/s something... or someone.?

ALLOTTER 2010/01/12(Tue)16:55 No. 109811 ID: a56bd0
File 126334410344.jpg - (28.72KB , 800x600 , Desperate men.jpg )

As the last of the tomes enter/ed the flames... he starts/started towards the chair... and the rope... I saw/see his intention...

ALLOTTER 2010/01/12(Tue)17:54 No. 109837 ID: a56bd0
File 126334766865.gif - (534.28KB , 800x600 , Do desperate things.gif )

I start/ed forward... to stop him.. maybe if I can/could shake him? He turns/ed to me... at first a puzzled expression... then a wolfish grin... I feel... strange... he starts towards me...

Odd that someone would seem to be accused and then immediately left unsupervised...

Also odd that he'd both burn evidence of his sins and then kill himself.... one might think it'd be one or the other.

And heck, go for it Mr Hero, saaave him! In all liklihood he won't brea his neck from a chair's height... just grab him around the legs and pull the weight off his neck if he starts a-hangin'

Okay well fine so SOMEONE didn't adequately note that the last file was aaanimaaateeedd...

Well it's now clear that the only thing to do is to accept the flame-eyed stranger as your lord and savior and offer to serve in in whatever manner he deems necessary.

That or stalk up to him and give him a SPARTA kick.

Or something between the two.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/12(Tue)21:22 No. 109998 ID: cf41a7
File 126336017065.gif - (797.20KB , 800x600 , Fallen Clergyman.gif )

-ANIMATED-

He advances/ed... I feel/felt a chilling sensation roll over my body...

I try to blind him... at first a mere distraction then dismay as he recoils/ed from it's radiance...

in desperation... a kind of yell and a swift boot below the belt..

he's off balance... he staggers/ed backwards... off the stairs.

Well that worked out happily. Now let's see if we can recover some of the evidence he was trying to burn in the fireplace before it is entirely destroyed.

Option B) Make sure he's down for good

Option C) Get the hell out of Dodge.

Do you still have the box? If he's really gone, you can science it up again.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/13(Wed)17:42 No. 110364 ID: cf41a7
File 126343334551.jpg - (14.03KB , 640x400 , Fire long cold.jpg )

I turn/ed first to the books.... perhaps they hold/held some clues to this madness... long cold ashes? I hear someone coming up the stairs...

Okay well if the ashes are cold then your grasp of time is more then a bit off, but it also means that anything left will keep for just a little while. So prepare yourself for whoever's coming up the stairs... either hide or get a weapon and thwack'em

ALLOTTER 2010/01/13(Wed)18:44 No. 110407 ID: cf41a7
File 126343709138.jpg - (14.19KB , 640x400 , It\'s \"Him\".jpg )

I prepare/d radiance device again... unsure this time if if it is/was/would be more effective to shine it... or use it as a club... I peer/ed down... saw/seeing a few couple of men clibing up the stairs... one gapes crying out

"erh it's it him.. no! not again.. before fleeing downwards"

the other gazes/ed upwards.. pondering before saying/said...

"you could not leave well enough alone could you?... you won't be safe now... not in England... you are lucky... it happened once before and the man...afraid... shot himself... you are lucky he didn't get so far...didn't manage to take you...

but I'll warn you... there has been.. a bit of a change in your... your appearance..."

ALLOTTER 2010/01/13(Wed)21:28 No. 110516 ID: cf41a7
File 126344690119.jpg - (16.01KB , 440x600 , the man in the mirror.jpg )

He supports me.... trembling to the mirror on the wall... I see the face... the face I will wear now... my blood runs chill...

Dream Sequence over ALLOTTER 2010/01/13(Wed)21:39 No. 110526 ID: cf41a7
File 126344757080.jpg - (54.10KB , 792x588 , I awaken.jpg )

uhhhhgg... I knew I shouldn't have fallen asleep in the bath, not good for my health I don't doubt.

I was just so tired after that long road, and all this excitement, the blood and the light. I suppose those stairs at the church reminded me of how I came to be who I am.

The Church was quite willing to have me hidden away somewhere... to have me work quietly for them under their watchful care to ensure "he" didn't decide to return and take me fully.

I never learned more about him... or the box, perhaps it is better that way? My curiosity almost delivered me to a fate worse than death.

Perhaps... perhaps I should remember that now? What shall I do now?

All right I think I see... you look like him, now. Or whatever was possessing the man. Regardless, you can try to think back on it some other time, right now we have a hot date with a mortician. I'm pretty sure towns like this expect people to meet each other in just their birthday suits.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/14(Thu)17:09 No. 110742 ID: cf41a7
File 126351779653.gif - (236.40KB , 800x900 , now then.gif )

I clean up and prepare myself to venture out into the autumn evening... I wonder if there is anything in particular I should remember to bring with me?

My mind traces over and takes stock of my possessions: 42 American dollars to tide me over till next month, one long, black clerical coat and hat, a Springfield 5100 w/ 18 birdshot cartridges, my traveling coat, King James Bible, 3 vests, 2 long-sleeved white shirts, one short-sleeved shirt, my old green toolbag (pliers, wires, screwdrivers, some various... instruments) a flashlight, and a somewhat off-time pocket watch, a pair of black Sunday shoes, and my rather dusty brown traveling shoes.

Wear all three vests. Take the watch, toolbag, and the flashlight. Wear no pants.

Alright time for some seriousness. It's getting dark and if it's at all cold, this is what we'll wear/bring.

Long sleeve white shirt, some pants (which I assume you have), dusty shoes. Bring your money with you because we don't know how secure this place is, as well as the flashlight just in case. Either coat is fine. Vest or no, don't much care. SHAVE. And put that flower in your pocket. Look classy.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/15(Fri)21:03 No. 111532 ID: cf41a7
File 126361820540.jpg - (697.58KB , 1000x1026 , a slowly setting sun.jpg )

I consider shaving a moment but settle on just a trim as I dislike looking in the mirror and seeing my old foe staring back at me, I originally started keeping the beard out east to avoid being identified readily as the man who's face I wear, but I must admit... it's grown a bit on me...mheheheheh ehhh.

I take my flashlight and decide on my longcoat as a bit of a cool breeze has taken to the land already.. the sky lacking the customary cloudy blanket of my homeland. My money held inside my shirt pocket (in case this town has more thieves than murderer's in its population) and take to the street.

I pass by a few youths playing with marbles between what seems to be a defunct bank and a rather weathered looking dwelling. The sight sparks the consideration that the comment about all the working men being out at work out of town must hold no small amount of veracity for a woman to have a job as an undertaker.

Take marbles, pinwheel(or lollypop), cowboy hat, and feather. Obtain awesome dickishness.

Otherwise, having obtained more town flavoring, proceed to ravaging the mortician.

>>111532

Resist the urges and continue on. Go to the general store.

Hmmn, the General store might be the place for some breakfast, if you didn' had any.

Having eaten, mortician.

Ah, and dont go mugging the locals. And although playing marbles with them might be an interesting idea, you do have other things to do.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/17(Sun)15:04 No. 113298 ID: a56bd0
File 126376948166.jpg - (115.04KB , 530x388 , Ned\'s Needfuls.jpg )

I carefully consider if I should take my supper before or after visiting the deceased and I decide that I probably won't be in the mood for food after a "messy suicide" and I'm not known for a weak stomach.

Thus I pop in Ned's Needful's General Store for a bite to eat. A rather disgruntled looking man in pinstripes is leaving as the man I presume to be Ned says

"I told you before you can't buy the watch back and that's final.. a deals a deal, and it doesn't get much more final than that... You'll get the store tomorrow and till then I don't want to see you lurken around in here."

The store itself seems fairly cleared out, so just I pull up a stool to the counter and order a warm bowl of soup.

Your soup is weak. It needs to be more manly. Demand some steak for your soup. Then ask who the new owner of the store is.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/18(Mon)15:11 No. 114089 ID: 3a2be8
File 126385628527.jpg - (316.56KB , 800x1000 , bowl full of soup.jpg )

>>113452
The gentleman behind the counter seems to be of a somewhat... mixed heritage, as is not uncommon in some parts of the continent, but his diction and dress seems to indicate no small measure of education.

"The -erh- the soup's a little weak isn't it?"

>"I'm afraid it's not my problem after tonight.. you're my last customer and after tonight the missus and I are headed out to Florida, or my name isn't Edward Poor. I'm not cooken up another batch of soup tonight, but if there's anything else you want I can see if I haven't packed it up in the back already?"

"So who's the new owner of the store?

>"You just met him, Silus Fields, some Swiss fellow who was looking to buy a place in town, archeologist or prospector or something he says. Sold him the store for 70 dollars and this silver watch, then he comes back in wanting the watch back... hell no I says, a deal's a deal an all that."

"I see." I manage to mumble as gulp down the soup.. aware now of how little I had eaten today. I wonder if it would be worth asking him anything about the town or what he still has in stock before continuing on my way...

Let's attack his pantry while he still has one :D
That soup could've had a sausage 6.6 What the kinda stuff that fills your belly?

And asking about the town, no reason. Imean, you could ask him if that thunder is business as usual, or about the power outage. But sides that, so far, the city holds no mysteries.

I doubt he knows what the archeologist is after, anyway.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/18(Mon)19:00 No. 114271 ID: 3a2be8
File 126387001985.jpg - (316.45KB , 800x1000 , eating and talking.jpg )

"So, that little light display you had last night normal?"

>"oh don't even get me started on 'that'...half the reason I'm moving outta here, the locals are used to it but.. there's no way I'm staying here another night, those lights coming up from the Bigtree Rock and next morning the preacher's dead, noooo sir, won't catch us spending another night here. My Grandfather... he messed with those kinda things, got into the voodoo after the war, I know enough to stay well away from that kinda mess."

"...and the power outage?"

>"Same smell different shit I say, went off earlier this week, it came back on late this morning, could go off again any moment, I don't like it one bit, and if preachers are winden up dead not all the blue paint in the world will keep what lurks down."

I finish up my meal, can't really think of much else to ask him about that he would know of.

"keeps what lurks down"? Point out that he has an interesting way of saying things, and casually ask what kind of things he might imagine is going on in the town.

Then before you leave, inform him in a MYSTERIOUS VOICE that he should never have children unless he wishes to involve his progeny in this madness FOR ALL TIME

>>114271
Ask about the watch.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/19(Tue)18:49 No. 114911 ID: a56bd0
File 126395576284.jpg - (107.64KB , 530x388 , store closed.jpg )

I push away my empty bowl and stand to leave while still holding the conversation.

"Keeps what's lurking down? that's a very interesting way to put things... what exactly do you expect is going on here?"

>"Something... unnatural like, sometimes things go missing, small things, food mostly. Still, sometimes livestock end up dead n' gnawed down to the bone in the night and little marks on em, like... like a candle's fingers."

"I see... so I suppose getting a buyer for the store was a bit of a blessing, wonder why he wanted the watch back so bad?"

>"Poor saphead probably realized that a solid silver, 23 jewel about was the most solid kind of wealth you can get these days beyond gold bricks."

"I see"

I turn to leave but before I do so, I have the oddest compulsion to point out something.
"I suppose you should be blessed to leave then, wouldn't want to be raising up a family in such place now would you. Wouldn't want to tie their fates into such a dark place now would we?"

>"No, no we wouldn't, its a good thing then that my oldest son is already in Florida waiting for us.. has a nice job lined up there an everything... nope.. I don't want to see any child of mine walking these hard hills again."

With that, we take our separate doors and another light goes out in this dusty town.

Time for corpse!

New Mission: Make way to Florida to assassinate the Poor family.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/20(Wed)17:14 No. 115378 ID: 3a2be8
File 126403649755.jpg - (161.60KB , 700x500 , erm hello.jpg )

After a few minutes I cross the town and find what I was informed to be "Clara's" workplace, it seems to be a kind of barn or was perhaps a stable, though I can smell nor hear any horses.

I do however, smell freshly cut wood and drying paint.

I pause for a moment reflecting as to how I should introduce myself.

I think the best way (and by best I mean "most amusing to me") way is to approach the individual and say "Excuse me SIR, would you happen to know if the mistress of this establishment is about?"

That would be mean. Instead, politely ask if he is Clara.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/20(Wed)21:01 No. 115592 ID: 3a2be8
File 126405007249.jpg - (248.81KB , 693x700 , Clara whuut?.jpg )

>>115393
I cough nervously and...
"Erh hello uhm, sir? would you know if the lady of the house I mean, Clara is in right now, I would like to-"

I hear something between a gag and a cough as a woman's voice answers.
>"Whuuut?"

"oh I'm sosorryIjus- Imeanyoudidn'tlook

>"May I ask exactly 'which' ignorant, inbred, foolhardy drugstore cowboy I'm about to kill so's I know what to carve on 'is damn casket when I fashion it with my own two God given hands?

"No, I didn't mean it like tha- I mean its just the ligh-"

>"Maybe we can have a double funeral ehh, "here lies Mr. McKenzie, couldn't figure out which side of a gun the bullets come out'... and alongside him 'here lies some other saphead, what liked to pick on tired, frustrated, girls armed with woodsaws!'"

"I erhm I"
My throat goes dry for as I realize weight this likely foreseeable diplomatic blunder, which perhaps could have avoided had I taken a moment to avoid making assumptions as to the gender of workers in poorly lit areas."

>>115592
Looking manly is nothing to be ashamed of. But you should probably blame it on your horrible, horrible eyes, regardless.

Real men never back down, even when it's painfully obvious that they've made a mistake. You clearly should've insisted that she's a male and that his name is clearly deceptive and that you don't appreciate it. Then, armed with such righteous indignation, you may easily proceed to demand a personal examination of the corpse, as you may need to consume his heart in order to gain his prowess in the job you'll both have been performing.

>>115592
Roll with the blow, take it as a jest.

"Well, my name is White, the new reverend. Killed by a terrible mistake; put that as my epitaph."

ALLOTTER 2010/01/21(Thu)21:44 No. 116402 ID: 3a2be8
File 126413908985.jpg - (243.41KB , 893x700 , finger pointen.jpg )

I take a few steps forward and remove my hat to make a better impression before trying again.

"Well then, my name is Mr. White, the 'new' reverend. Killed by a terrible mistake; you can put that as my epitaph."

>"uhmph, Well, my name's Claire Parker, as you have probably guessed by now, and I suppose it wouldn't be doing to kill off the replacement now would it, they might not send us another one huh? "

"Well from what I could see of the town's state it might not need one much longer from the looks of it. Granted my eyes are a bit dimm so I can blame it on that as well... besides there's nothing wrong with being errh... (she narrows her eyes for a moment) "robust"... a sign of healthy country living I suppose in these times when so many have little to eat."

>"I'll grant you that... but you might be a little more sensitive to a girl who was nicknamed manhands when she was younger. Anyhow what are you 'here' for anyway? Isn't it a bit early to start home visits, or do you just make a habit of sneaking up on folks in the dusk hours of the day?"

There is a dead guy you want to know about. Tell her you want to know about how he died so you could determine any specific rites you should perform for him.

Lookin' rather jaundiced there, Mr White.

And yes I suppose she cut off all the smalltalk and so the only path is to admit that you'd like to know a bit more about how the last pastor met his end. And eventually ask to see the body yourself.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/23(Sat)10:57 No. 117171 ID: a56bd0
File 126427304789.jpg - (208.74KB , 893x700 , lets open him up.jpg )

"Actually I'm here to have a look at my predecessor before we put him to rest, inspection of the deceased is useful to know if any particular care should be taken during the rites. I was informed that you were the local mortician of sorts so-"

>"I'm hardly a mortician, more a carpenter really, I just made the coffin and shoved him in with some straw so he doesn't rattle about too much. Really want to get him in the ground and fast as we can, you understand... but if you're insistent."

"Oh I do insist, in matters of suicide and violence especially it is important that the church be well informed of the details, especially concerning one of our own."

With my encouragement she pulls out a prybar from her belt and begins to work at the lid.

>"Yeah well... you owe me for this, spend most of the day getting him in this thing and only now that I'm done do you come along and say you're wanten a look at him. Say.. how far do come from anyway, you have an interesting way of speaken... oh hold on, help me with this a moment, or do you just plan to stand with your arms behind your back while a lady does all the work?"

Inform her, in whatever order you deem correct, that your interesting way of speaking is known as PROPER speaking, and also that you're quite content to have her do all the work for you.

...What, all too terrible? Fine then... explain your background and help however you can. Jerk.

Let's get a look at that cadaver. And lick your lips in a creepy manner once you do so.

Say that you're from England. Jump in to help, and ask her what you can do to make it up. Also, ask her about the mine/lights/electricity. Say that you noticed scorch marks up the pole when you were walking in to town and fixed the wire. She'd probably appreciate a man with useful skills.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/25(Mon)20:00 No. 118634 ID: 1d2d60
File 126447841882.jpg - (166.05KB , 300x700 , coffin filler.jpg )

I decide to help her with the lid as I can.

"You are quite observant, I'm from England my dear, where we speak English..."

>"I see, probably explains why you are unfamiliar with what a working person looks like."

"Hey now, I can do useful things... why only this morning I fixed the power pole out of town, wires were snapped..."

>"That was quite decent of you.. I wouldn't take a preacher for being good with machines an 'lectricity"

We pry off the last nail and...

>>118634
Um... I don't see where he shot himself. It looks more like his throat was cut.

Why is there blood on his feet?

All right it's time to play detective, so it's serioustime for me. Hmm... things to examine. Bleeding from the nose, possibly due to nose trauma. Something around his neck, wire or a bloodline? Can't tell for sure, but is there something under his graying chesthairs? Is his left hand partially gray? Perhaps from gunpowder... You'd think someone would've changed his pants, but good that they didn't... Are they torn or is there merely blood on them? Still, his feet are bloodied which suggests he might've been walking on glass or something...

SO INTRIGUING.

Also note that there is a lot of blood on the top of his undershirt, but no indication of a blood trail leading to it.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/25(Mon)20:57 No. 118674 ID: 1d2d60
File 126448187519.jpg - (49.57KB , 640x400 , lower perspective.jpg )

I lower myself a little for closer look under the chin before recoiling from the... odor. Looks to be a bullet wound, small, no exit wound though. Looks to be a powder burn matching the one on his hand as well. The marks on his neck mostly appear to be blood pooling.

Claire must see my obvious distaste.
>"Yeah, he's getting pretty erh ripe.. nasty business too.. Looks like rats, or a coyote got to him or something before they found him in the morning."

"His shirt is pretty soaked."

>"Yeah, I tried to clean him up some, but it wasn't a very good job. I- I don't actually like... touching bodies much, not people anyway. Mostly just splashed some water to rinse away most of the blood, sweat, an grit."

All right all right... so it looks like there's no exit wound for the bullet, so it was low calibur, probably just rattled around inside his skull and made his brain into funbits. There IS a good question about the rim of his undershirt being soaked with blood... Was he wearing something underneath, I wonder, that got bloodsoaked and removed? or was it merely his chest was soaked with blood but Clara cleaned it up?

Also ask Clara what she means about "not people, anyway"... does she like to molest puppies? Fiend.

ALLOTTER 2010/01/27(Wed)18:47 No. 119738 ID: 1d2d60
File 126464687335.jpg - (109.09KB , 397x395 , mangled feet.jpg )

"erh.. 'not people'?"

I ask as I move to inspect the feet (this time taking care to hold my breath.)

>"Well, I've slaughtered animals before and cooked them up to eat, even done some hunting with my big brother and my pa... well before he died. My brother ne're really take that well, didn't quite want to go hunting anymore I guess"

"erhm" I manage to mumble in acknowledgment without letting any of the fouler air in. His feet seem fairly cut a bruised up. I don't see any glass, tooth or thorn fragments however. I stand back up to take a breath and continue.

"So you splashed water on him but didn't take much of the blood off?"

>"Whell.. I got some off his chest.. but I didn't want much to touch him.. and if I had just soaked him he would have smelled worse or I would have had to strip and redress him.. and I don't really fell comfortable doing, I mean.. no one is going to see him again or anything.."

Wonderful... so we have no idea really where the wounds came from, other than the headwound, which APPEARS to be self-inflicted. Possible that he tried to shoot someone/something else before getting shot himself... but still, unlikely.

Well unless anyone else has anything particularly helpful, I think we're done here. Tell Clara she's done a good job.

>>119738
What's that green stuff on his foot?

Allotter 2010/02/01(Mon)20:32 No. 123644 ID: 1d2d60
File 126508516610.jpg - (125.54KB , 600x640 , Untitled.jpg )

Hmmm.. there appears to be some kind of... residue on his foot, no familiar odor immediately... but for some reason I am reminded simultaneously of the smells of lightning, dusty books, and... hmm something else...

"Yes, Clarie you have done quite well. You may nail him back in."

I let my mind wonder for a moment... I have exhausted the trail here it seems.. but where to next? I haven't checked that room in the church yet... and I doubt they will still be waiting there. Besides... I do not doubt that I have better tools with which to inspect that room myself than any backlands sheriff.

Claire pauses in nailing up the coffin, the silence drawing me from my reverie, she eyes me with what I suspect to be some suspicion.
>"This isn't jest about making sure he's buried proper is it?"

So since when were you on such familiar terms with Claire that you started giving her the petname "Clarie"?

Anyway, I think Clara here might prove to be a bit of an ally. Now you'll probably be all surprised that she penetrated your cunning ruse, but try to stay calm. Without really denying anything, ask her what SHE thinks this is about.

"Not anymore, Clara.. not anymore..."

Allotter 2010/02/03(Wed)19:30 No. 124792 ID: 1d2d60
File 126525421049.jpg - (156.63KB , 600x650 , your thoughts.jpg )

"Not anymore Claire... not anymore... now please, tell me what do you think of all this?"

>"All of what? I mean it's a sad way to go out and all... he didn't really deserve this I think..."

"I referring to the fact that that for a quite, small town suicide he apparently decide to go jumping around in glass, kick a paint bucket, run through a field, and then fire at least 2 shots before finally hitting his mark. All while in the confines of a small attic room."

>"I suppose there 'are' some questions still unanswered... but I'm sure when my brother comes back he will finally have found out more. He wanted to check on somethin and went out a few hours ago... he should be back for dinner soon. Said it didn't sit right with him either."

I consider the fact that don't really feel hungry right now, and I would would rather go check that room and weigh it against staying and probing further. All this questioning and subtleties has me more in the mood for action than mere waiting and listening.

Ask who her brother is, then tell her that you intend to also discover the truth in the matter, then away with you and time to investigate.

Allotter 2010/02/04(Thu)15:57 No. 125312 ID: a56bd0
File 126532782370.jpg - (37.92KB , 640x400 , Leaving.jpg )

"I am sorry to say but I am not feeling particularly hungry right now so you will pardon me if I do not stay for dinner... but know this. I too intend to discover the truth in this matter... tell me, who is your brother?"

>"Samuel Parker.. but everyone just calls him Sheriff since he took the office."

I consider this for a moment... then bring out my most... diplomatic response under the circumstances.

"Yes... we've met. But I am sure we will need to meet and speak again before this is all over.. and so mylady.. I bid you goodnight."

I turn to leave and make my way back to the hotel to pick up a few tools before heading on to the church. Sunset seems to have taken the world in it's dusk embrace and a bitter breeze has picked up.

Well I think it's safe to categorize her under "ally" even if her brother's not nearly as understanding. I suppose we best retire for the evening and plan our next day.

Allotter 2010/02/05(Fri)20:51 No. 126004 ID: 1d2d60
File 126543187697.jpg - (91.31KB , 590x590 , prep1.jpg )

Though I do not feel tired due to my little nap in the bath, it would be the wise thing to retire for the evening...

Allotter 2010/02/05(Fri)20:52 No. 126005 ID: 1d2d60
File 126543192426.jpg - (23.12KB , 600x600 , Prep2.jpg )

However...

Allotter 2010/02/05(Fri)20:54 No. 126008 ID: 1d2d60
File 126543207156.jpg - (33.79KB , 700x700 , Prep3.jpg )

If I were a wise man, I would know to curb my curiosity...

Allotter 2010/02/05(Fri)21:29 No. 126026 ID: 1d2d60
File 126543416320.jpg - (60.58KB , 994x769 , lighting up the stairs.jpg )

If I could curb my curiosity...

Allright, lets get a glance on this crime scene. Luckily, they didn' clean it up yet.

How good are your nightvision? we cant just turn on the lights, yannow.

I wanna know what else is in the bag!!

Allotter 2010/02/06(Sat)20:20 No. 126940 ID: 1d2d60
File 12655164156.jpg - (402.51KB , 1000x852 , Somewhat worse for wear.jpg )

... I would not be the man I am today.

Well then, lets see what there is to see shall we?

Is that a phonograph?

...Turn it on.

Nah.
Bed seems to have nothing, unless theres something taped underneath.

Hmmn, drawer cabinet. I'd hide something, either in a drawer, or under the bottom drawer. Remove the bottom drawer to check underneath.

maybe moving the cabinet to check behind is overkill.

>>126940
Check out the blood.

>>126940

Check the shelf, and behind the picture.

>>126940
some forms of old cabinets had secret compartments built into their drawers, concealed by perspective and use of thin panels. If the drawers come out easily, check 'em.

Allotter 2010/02/07(Sun)13:18 No. 127415 ID: a56bd0
File 126557749731.jpg - (383.51KB , 992x650 , currious tools.jpg )

Yes.. I think I may want to check that phonograph, and that picture, in a moment.. but first let us see what this chest of drawers conceal? I set down my bag on the cot and being to inspect this item of furniture.

The top surface itself seems to be covered in candles and melted candle waxes. A large box of matches sits nearby, there also appears to be an ivory covered copy of the every preacher's most essential text.

Within the drawers themselves there are of course the standard clothes and sundry items to be expected in a man's wardrobe.

However under some shirts in the bottom drawer I find a small glass jar filled halfway with a silvery whitish, almost metallic powder... as well what appears to be a wood handled icepick or perhaps an engraving tool to some kind.

Nothing appears to be hidden under the drawers except a few lone coins and buttons which likely found their own way here.

Is there something in the top-right quarter of the window?

Can't you light this place up somehow?

A-HEMN, no lights! The point is to not be seen from the outside!

Allotter 2010/02/08(Mon)18:12 No. 128346 ID: 817cd3
File 126568154239.jpg - (382.74KB , 1000x852 , not much.jpg )

The object I spy hanging in the window appears to be a simple wooden crucifix and rosary.

Lifting up the picture and peaking behind there appears to be nothing on the wall or hidden on the frame itself. The picture itself depicts a rather homely looking couple in early century clothing... perhaps his parents?

... hmm I don't want to draw attention to myself unnecessarily... but my search may be better aided by some additional light. My eyes as weak as they are find the electric torch somewhat tiresome.

However as this building is not wired my choices are apparently between: making do with my electric torch... lighting some of his candles... retrieving and attempting to use "the instrument" from my bag (a possibly perilous act, considering my past luck with it and the rooms of dead clergymen)... or perhaps even cutting out the light and trying to let my dim eyes adjust to the moonlight?

>>128346
Use the instrument. So long as you don't shine it on anything WEIRD you should be good.

Well I'm pretty stumped. Let's try turning off the light and see if something starts glowing ominously.

(By the way, great job with the shadows)

Animated Allotter 2010/02/09(Tue)21:26 No. 129057 ID: 817cd3
File 126577959580.gif - (4.53MB , 1000x852 , changingcells.gif )

I procure the 'instrument' from my tool-bag (on recollection I really should have named this thing at some point) removing the protective leather lens cap and dialing back the focal adjustment knobs. I try the switch to no avail.

"Damn batteries, must have..."

It seems the cells were drained during the lengthy storage. I never designed the unit for economical power usage. I switch out the cells from my torch as my eyes adjust to the darkness and mingled moonlight.

I see a thin almost, metallic tracery in the pools of moonlight which slowly resolves into view. Suddenly the device come alive in my hand (having forgotten to turn it off before switching the cells.) It normally possesses the power to reveal as of yet unforeseen details in even the most mundane scene... but here...

"God's Name.. what is all this?.."

>>129057

Sweep the room with flashlight. Ready weapon.

I'm not sure what we're seeing, here. Blood, but not dramatic murder splotches or anything, either that which wasn't cleaned up or something more sinister. And... marks on the wooden boards? Is it chalk?

Animation Allotter 2010/02/11(Thu)13:57 No. 129891 ID: a56bd0
File 126592543818.gif - (1.38MB , 1000x852 , Sweep.gif )

I tighten my fist and hold it ready to strike or fend off anything that should come leaping out of the shadows.. or perhaps even the walls themselves? A sweep of the blood seems to show a strange path leading out one of the windows. The luminous lines appear to cover both the walls and the floor is a tessellation of triangles and lines.

I don't imagine it to be chalk... surely my simple flashlight would have revealed it before if it was? Whatever it is seems to shine.. or perhaps glow on contact with the device's radiance (hmm perhaps that would be a good name for this, the "Radiance Device"?)

What shall I inspect next I wonder?

Hmm the lattice seems to be organized, but on the wall, is that some form of writing you can read?

See if you can't read/transcribe the writing covering all of everything everywhere.

Allotter 2010/02/12(Fri)17:20 No. 130188 ID: 817cd3
File 126602402171.jpg - (41.45KB , 1000x400 , text.jpg )

I focus in on the damaged looking section just below the window.

Latin... to be expected I suppose. Let me see...

"-thy-comes-kingdom-thy--------as-in-heaven-so-in-earth... oh okay.. I think I get the picture..."

Running my fingers over the surface shows no reaction. However, I 'can' feel very thin etching on the surface matching the marking. Also, significant... yet another set of burn marks or tracks.

Maybe this entire thing was some sort of seal or binding or something, which was broken?

Do you have any idea what could've made the scratches that block out the middle part? Or do you have an idea even of what the Latin was written with?

Allotter 2010/02/12(Fri)21:30 No. 130395 ID: 817cd3
File 126603905156.jpg - (45.54KB , 650x650 , unfinished.jpg )

"Hmm yes some kind of ward or perhaps a binding? but to keep something in? or out?"

I sweep the Radiance Device over the rest of the room, just to be sure nothing else is reacting unusually (I should take care to preserve my batteries having to currently share them between the torch and the power hungry Device.)

A cursory sweep shows nothing of note.. I notice however, that the lattice pattern seems to extend evenly and continuously even down the stairwell. But shining my light up...

"uhuh?" why of course... he could not have reached up into the belltower... not unaided anyway. The pattern is obviously unfinished here, even to my untrained eye.

I consider if there is anything left here I should check?

That's the rope for the bell, right? Still, if he was unable to keep the pattern going past his physical reach, then he must've written it with some sort of worldly device...

>>130544
Or he had a ladder or something.

Allotter 2010/02/13(Sat)17:07 No. 130806 ID: 817cd3
File 12661096469.jpg - (352.87KB , 1000x852 , so.jpg )

"Yes... he likely used a ladder to reach the ceiling and the lower parts of the towershaft... but it likely wouldn't extend all the way up, at least nothing one could bring up past the turn in those stairs.

Besides this room was likely never meant to be lived in.. probably only started after his house burnt dow... wait... who am I talking... never mind... creepy empty buildings."

I consider once more that I probably should never have come out into the back-country. At least in the city there are other people to rely on, specialists who actually know what they are doing.

I take a look around the room before switching out the batteries, pondering if there is anything left I have forgotten, or if I should take of the items I have found with me? The energy from that little nap and dinner is wearing off and there is some part of tonight I would still like to spend in repose.

Oooh lookie here, he's beginning to hear us a bit clearer...

Take the jar with the powder and the accompanying pick-thing... and the Ivory bible. I think Ivory is going to be the key, here.

But before you leave, make sure to listen to the phonograph.

Allotter 2010/02/14(Sun)11:29 No. 131285 ID: a56bd0
File 126617574695.jpg - (30.74KB , 650x650 , phonograph.jpg )

I try the phonograph... at first there is nothing but distorted noise... but I readjust it to hear...

Allotter 2010/02/14(Sun)11:54 No. 131308 ID: a56bd0
Audio Recording.mp3 - (682.68KB )

>>131285
...the static breaks for the tinny sound of band music which then fades into a dull static roar, continuing for a moment until a hoarse, excited voice begins whispering over the background sounds...

"I have seen him---- guarded against it--- the hungering titanspawn--- ruins below ruins of--- cities never dead for long--- fouled image of Saturn's madness--- in mockery waits--- the mines almost--- still anxious to follow the bidding of the hidden blood mistress--- yet abandoned as useless--- straining--- worming--- but trapped again--- the tree of light seals--- the silver poisons him and his--- sends out his cooker-sons--- small enough-- slipping the nets laid--- what does the diamond stalker sleep for? how long? friend or foe--- sent for experts."

Allotter 2010/02/14(Sun)15:35 No. 131469 ID: a56bd0
File 126619055832.jpg - (42.49KB , 620x650 , erm_.jpg )

>>131308
"urhm..."

Check the picture in closer detail. Sounds like there was some weird shit going on here.

Yes, shine the Radiant Device on more than just the walls and floor.

Allotter 2010/02/14(Sun)18:34 No. 131638 ID: a56bd0
File 126620124591.jpg - (373.53KB , 1000x852 , nothing.jpg )

I pack up the jar and the 'icepick?" as well as the ivory bound Bible. Sweeping the Radiance Device across the room and its contents reveals nothing new, I even check behind objects for good measure before switching out the cells again.

I am weary, confused, and feel little closer to any kind of resolution.

>>131638
Follow the markings downstairs then.

All right time to get our head in the game. I'm going to assume the voice is that of the pastor. It looks like the previous pastor found something, he says he "saw it," some kind of eldritch beast... And it's tryin to get out. Out of where? Seems like something underground, the mines, perhaps? It may be the ruins of an ancient city, the creature left over from a prior age. It can't leave, as the "tree of light" seals it... Does a "tree of light" ring a bell? Furthermore, it looks like you'll be wanting to get your hands on some silver, as it seems to be an effective weapon. Lastly, the pastor indicates that the creature is able to send out minions, probably the thing that he, the town, and you have to worry about most for the time being. Any ideas what the "diamond stalker" refers to?

Oh, and if the pastor sent for experts.. surely there'd be some paper trail? Ask the post office if he sent a letter to anyone.

Or did he send for you?

Allotter 2010/02/15(Mon)19:38 No. 132546 ID: 817cd3
File 126629148114.jpg - (63.61KB , 489x666 , all the way down.jpg )

The marks go all the way down the stairs and even cover the whole of the interior chapel in the same repeated pattern and script. They do not however, extent past the doors. I imagine this would have taken many hours of work and likely a short ladder of some kind.

The silver dust and the icepick is probably what he used to make the design. If he only used half to do all this, it must go a really long way.

How he learned to do this is the real mystery. The information on the design has to be somewhere. Best think about it tomorrow.

I imagine all the runes and glyphs and whatnot are for protection, protection from the minions that can venture out from the caves. Of course, no man can stay in a chapel forever, so perhaps he did go insane and kill himself in the end. Make a note to ask about the ex-pastor's activities prior to his death.

Allotter 2010/02/16(Tue)15:37 No. 132925 ID: a56bd0
File 126636344443.jpg - (68.81KB , 590x590 , rule-.jpg )

Yes... everything might make more sense in the morning, there is nothing else I can do unprepared tonight anyhow.

Allotter 2010/02/16(Tue)15:43 No. 132927 ID: a56bd0
File 126636378469.jpg - (26.89KB , 640x650 , -of-.jpg )

...But even in the light of day I doubt this whole affair makes sense. A slumbering evil? I hope dearly that I am not the help he sent for... as I was only informed that he needed a replacement, not some kind of "exorcist" or "daemon hunter"!

I was just a physicist... only a student before any of this. This has to be some kind of mistake?

Wait, are you going to sleep HERE? Don't you have a room to go back to?

Allotter 2010/02/16(Tue)15:53 No. 132934 ID: a56bd0
File 126636440599.jpg - (24.58KB , 640x650 , -three.jpg )

"..of course I remembered to lock the door." my hollow voice echoes from the faded walls of my hotel room. I feel oddly off balance... as though the amber quiet in this dying town is creeping into my head...solitude even stronger in the night.

However, just to make sure I lean a chair against the doorknob and place a vase carefully against the window latch. That should buy me a few moments... just in case. A few moments is exactly all I might need.

Careful boss man, no one said anything about demon hunting. Yeah, that's demon, with no 'a' ...Daemon is pretentious. Then again, you seem to sleep with a Bible under your pillow, so I suppose it's unfair to keep you up to my standards.

Allotter 2010/02/16(Tue)18:12 No. 133086 ID: a56bd0
File 126637273060.jpg - (19.38KB , 640x650 , a black grin.jpg )

Black: "well then? That was a rather uninspiring first move... ahahaha...even if you cheated by using a pawn with a past... I mean a pocket thaurmatic radiance emitter? what kind of backstory did you have to cook up to justify that."

Allotter 2010/02/16(Tue)18:20 No. 133096 ID: a56bd0
File 12663732254.jpg - (63.76KB , 640x650 , Yellow.jpg )

>>133086
Yellow: "We agreed to play by Antananarivo rules, yes? The Codex clearly states that when using Antananarivo rules a player jumping into an already running game is allowed at least one character with a special equipment allowance."

Gee, if it's "at least one" then Black really should have seen it coming. Still, there's really nothing to say at the moment, other than 'what are the odds that our pastor happens to call his mystery device in an accurate manner.'

So... who are you guys?

Allotter 2010/02/16(Tue)19:22 No. 133163 ID: a56bd0
File 12663769735.jpg - (80.11KB , 640x650 , gametable1.jpg )

Yellow: "And furthermore I thought didn't know were were teaming up and don't think I don't see what you are trying to pull there Red..!"

Black: " Oh come on Yellow *green sniggers at this a moment before a disturbuingly placid anf faraway look returns to his/her/it's lone eye* you know thats how the game is always played.

Red: "Red and Black look so good together.."

Black: "Black goes with everything my dea.. >>133098 >>133099 oh damn I think the atmospheric lighting has started talking again."

White: "..."

Black: " Okay fine whatever, get off my back"

Green *snorts and continues shaking at some private joke*

Blue: "I wanna change boards can we change boards?.. this timefram is boarien lets have sum cool magiken and stuff and swords n' things I haet des slow ivest- ivesti-- detectiven gaems. if we play in 2030 I can bring out this awsumcooldude wiff hiz lazor miniguns and his"

Black: "Shut up you illiterate twink and wait.. we will get there you unclultu-"

Yellow: (wisper):"Erh... hello there 'voices' can... can you hear me? I'm a somewhat new at actually playing this game so... I was wondering how or really if you have any suggestions. I'm really just filling in for someone else. I mean I've seen you pull off some crazy stuff, but I didn't know you were actually watching, or listening... or whatever we are doing."

If you're asking us for help, you're probably doomed. At the moment, we are completely unfamiliar with the game. you'd have to inform us of the rules, the goal, and what choices we have.

>>133163
Yellow: Are you and Green together? We'll help you if you answer all our nosy questions!

The game is very simple. Good versus evil. Good starts, evil has one turn first, but will try to even the game, and if good side isn't lucky, conquer the game.

Blue one usually plays "the pirates" at FIRST because he can't really plot anything and is sentimental.

Green needs help in everything but is a reasonably good buffer and a companion against evil. Otherwise green is very absent and sometimes annoying. White only observes that all the rules are followed. The game is played by first figuring out the rules, by trial and error.

Red never does turns but can cast curses on players. Black is very cunning and active in the game, because of Red's influence. So it will be very challenging, unless Black and Red get wrapped into a perilous rule breaking spiral.

Allotter 2010/02/17(Wed)15:53 No. 133592 ID: 817cd3
File 126645083733.jpg - (225.16KB , 700x500 , shifting gameboard.jpg )

Yellow:>>133173 "Urhm gee... thanks... like I really didn't know how screwed I was when I showed up and White deals me a 10 of Hearts, The Cavalier of Diamonds, a card saying 'No', 3 SORRY pieces, 3d6's... oh and the Monopoly Dog...

>>133178 Together? No I -uhm- I haven't partnered up with anyone yet, I just got here, I've been out of the game for a while, wait erh what do you mean 'together' you don't mean like umh?"

Orange: *fiddling with his pieces* "Come on dudes just cram it and maybe we get caught up to speed again, we are at least 3 sessions behind because of this and I wa..."

*Violet extends up from a near reclining position to take note of the drama... Green seems to almost respond in kind to this movement, perking up a little as it's eye focuses dazedly into Yellow's mask*

Green: "A partner huh? I can help a little if you are willing to let me play my way a little? huh?" *green's vine grip tightens just a little before relaxing and sliding off* "I know the game and if you give me a little maybe I can can try to get a little from Violet, huh?"

Yellow: "Please don't lean on me Green... I erh some of your methods... I mean uhm-"

Green: " Red collects power... I...I... discharge power... disperse it... I am an opposite... a perfect ally."

>>133418
Yellow: Good vs Evil huh? make up the rules? Well I tried a little prep reading back at C-------- before I got here and the impression was a bit like a metaphysical game of Tabletop Calvinball."

>>133592

The No is your trump card, save it. The Cavalier of Diamonds is more of a sideswipe to protect/cancel certain things, or overcome certain challenges.

10 of Hearts is a good solid first play. Sorry is to deteriment other people's cards. d6s help in a pinch, so don't worry too much about using them-they're fairly common.

The dog is a companion. If you play it too early or too late, it will either die (and commit damage) or be ineffective.

You seem top have a lot of reaction and interference cards.

>>133611
... do you actually know the rules, or you ARE playing Calvinball here?

>>133592
What's wrong with Green's 'methods'? If Green can counteract Red, then it should be advantageous to accept an alliance.

Allotter 2010/02/17(Wed)22:39 No. 134031 ID: 817cd3
File 126647516227.jpg - (56.96KB , 640x650 , suuure.jpg )

>>133800
>>133611
Yellow: "I am not really sure, I'm think that some rules exist... it's just... they are very convoluted and malleable... open to some interpretation. I agree with your assessment of the "No" Card, and yes I'm am certain the Dog is a power servant if used correctly, but I am under the impression the the Cavalier of Diamonds is actually the gift giver.. or perhaps the ability to put the right item in the right hands, but then I heard the Cavaliers really come into their only if you can hold all four."

Green: "ooohh... and you got a Cavalier... but you know to really play that you are going to need certain people, and you can't bring everyone you would need together on a few memories and dreams"

Yellow: "Stop peaking I- we arn't a team, I told you we- fine, hold up- (aside) Green's methods are a little, simple at times, I concern myself more in dreams and memories, Green's motives are far more basic, I'm afraid, far more more... primal.

I mean not that there is anything wrong with basic... if controlled and directed, it's just sometimes Green can't see the field for the flowers is all, get's lost in such petty things. Black however, 'is' a game ruining bastard, never plays alone either. Red is quite powerful in a rather more direct fashion so I 'may' need Green's help this game, especially if Green can bring Violet over."

>>134031
Better do it then. You can really use the help, and it's not like Green's going to fuck up the game THAT badly.

aaand if I'm interpreting Green's methods properly, the 10 of Hearts will be very, very useful.

>>134031

Sounds about right. The Four Horsemen is a very powerful image, regardless of how it's used.

What you really need to do is pit red and black against each other. This tends to create a lot of backlash, so you need to hit them both when they're distracted. Don't know how you'll pull that off, though.

If you really want... the Dog can be used in combination with the Cavalier, or any other number of cards (if I'm guessing right from your skill). You need to make it fully Otherwordly, though. Expensive.

Allotter 2010/02/19(Fri)11:12 No. 135336 ID: 817cd3
File 126660676159.jpg - (113.43KB , 750x797 , Orange and Yellow.jpg )

>>134084
Yellow: "I-I suppose... as long as you don't try to fuck around with my units too much. Remember, this isn't some kind of... alliance this is just a mutual enemy thing"

Green:"Mmmsure fellow... I'll pass you a few pieces to play with a little later.. just be gentle with them..."

Orange: ".... and furthermore Blue... stop babbling like an idiot, we know you can form cohesive grammar so do it!"

Blue:"Silly secondy noob... doncha see, all 0f teh grammerings change change an change again...my gud fellu. Tiss awl verily dis most wonderous und grande cacophony of noise und fury signifying..."

*violet quietly wispers*
Violet: "Nothing..."

Yellow:(aside)>>134088 "I see you.. erh.. understand... I was planning to keep the 10 of Hearts in line with the Dog... but it would be much more cost effective if I can use one of green's pawns I suppose.

>>134146
Unfortunately Black is very persuasive... I mean we all know Black will probably screw over anyone who is teamed with them, but Black always knows what tempts you.

> the Dog can be used in combination with the Cavalier, or any other number of cards (if I'm guessing right from your skill). You need to make it fully Otherwordly, though. Expensive.

This... idea.. it intrigues me... Black currently has the Dog blocked as my first round I attacked with it and dealt lasting damage, but he quickly countered and locked it. If I can unlock it again-I yesss-I can boast it's power manifold with a card combination and A Cavalier combined with the Dog's tenacity and loyalty would be truly ruthless."

Orange:"Figuring out how the game works again or just mumbling to yourself like always there hrmm Yellow?"

Question: Is everyone playing the game and making alliances to benefit themselves, or are only some people playing and some people observing, with the observers picking sides and giving advice? If it's the latter, there's virtually no risk in receiving advice (as long as they don't then provide information to the enemy), but if it's the former we must be sure not to make promises we cannot deliver on.

Allotter 2010/02/20(Sat)20:23 No. 136504 ID: 817cd3
File 126672621826.jpg - (317.95KB , 750x501 , hardly safe_.jpg )

>>136298
Orange: (aside)"Ahaha so he's not just mumbling to himself, don't worry, I'm rather more astute than Yellow, I'll only let those I 'wish' to hear me do so. Now 'who' exactly that includes... well that's my little secret now isnt't it?

Anyhow.. yes 'everyone' plays the game... well everyone but White.. but White deals so that could be playing after a fashion. oh and a little hint... it you want to address one of us in particular you may wish to specify to whom they are addressed... lest messages get snatched from the air ehh?"

>>136298
Yellow: (aside)"I will keep that in mind, I am wary of forming any kind of alliance.. I remember it once said that the enemy of your enemy is merely your enemy's enemy... no more no less... Green is simple yes, but our goals are not the same. I consider accepting the aid.. but my trust is as far as my reach... and I may need the aid of others to bring down Black.

Doubtlessly Black could be secretly influencing almost anyone at the table. Caution is gained from experience and I benefit from experience, though 'this' game is new, the rule holds true."

(To Yellow): Well technically there's absolutely no harm in accepting aid, as long as you don't become reliant on it. Also there's the risk that if you accept aid and don't in any way reciprocate, you may make a firm enemy. Additionally, Orange is capable of hearing un-directed communication, so be wary of what you say and to whom... That may not be an ability limited to Orange. Most importantly... What exactly is your goal, here? I mean, if we're to advise you, I'd like to know what it is you desire. Is it merely to win this game? If so, we need to know the conditions necessary for victory.

(To Orange): There is no technical contract between ourselves and Yellow, so if you wish you may as well address us for whatever purpose you wish. It would, in a way, be to our advantage to gain the perspective of a more experienced player, but I feel no personal obligation to share such knowledge with any other. Without any specific prior allegiances, it behooves one to place one's bets on the side most likely to win, no?

Allotter 2010/02/22(Mon)18:12 No. 137465 ID: 817cd3
File 126689116937.jpg - (376.89KB , 900x900 , striving.jpg )

>>136507
Yellow (aside): "Thankyou for the advice... I will keep these things in mind. The game is lost by the destruction of all controlled pieces on the board. If I lose the game... I will have lost what I gambled to join.

My goal is to thwart Black in taking what does not belong to 'it', my desire is to chastise Red for a past betrayal, but most of all, I seek to reclaim what I once lost in a different game a different time... it was..

Orange (aside): " Haha, I like that line of reasoning, very mercenary of you, very cautious for one who has nothing to gain and nothing to lose except the chance to amuse ehh? Anyhow, I suppose this one's >>133099 question must gain an answer, no? We are..

Allotter 2010/02/22(Mon)18:24 No. 137477 ID: 817cd3
File 126689189894.jpg - (331.05KB , 900x900 , upon waking.jpg )

"... a most curious dream. No, I shall correct that, I have had curious dreams, and I have had horrible dreams... but that.. that would just Weird in the most profound and unusual sense... or as I suppose the Norse would have it "Wyrd"?

More confusingly what is this here I drew? The designs to another device perhaps? but the scale of it... and I don't see how some of these parts would manage under the tensions... the materials and techniques would have to be quite obscure... Hell I don't even know what this could even be used for! It looks like a obscene aeroplane with too many wings had progeny with some kind of Chinese Rocket!"

I consider it a moment more before reasoning that I should probably set it from my mind and plan my day. What tasks shall I prepare for and set before myself?

Inspect the drawing closely.

During the day, it might be a good idea to go to the haunted rock where the lightning was last night. It might be a better idea to get a couple of allies before you go.

Sssshhow it to ussssss. Also check in with the sheriff, ask about the pastor's activities prior to his death, eat breakfast.

>>137481
This

Allotter 2010/02/23(Tue)12:51 No. 137838 ID: 817cd3
File 126695830624.jpg - (324.90KB , 700x933 , one page of many.jpg )

I glance a moment over the first page of several seemingly related drawings I sketched out. While considering my options.

I could go try to scale that rather precarious looking hill from which it is said 'the lights' emanate from. I should probably gather together some stout souls to join and guide me to the summit of the 'haunted rock.' I could check in with the sheriff and clear up some questions regarding the activities of the former Father McKenzi leading up to his death.

Perhaps even the Sheriff, if unwilling to join me himself can at least point me to someone adventurous enough to do so.

But before any of these things... I am going to eat breakfast.

Can you read the Latin for us, Mister? Pretty please? And I think it'd be better to be investigating alone, for the time being. I mean, how are you going to justify yourself to whoever else you'd bring? "I saw some magic lightning up this way..."

Eat breakfast, then Sheriff. He sounds like the best source of posse in these parts.

Allotter 2010/02/24(Wed)19:27 No. 138417 ID: 817cd3
File 126706842839.jpg - (143.78KB , 500x317 , Breakfast and latin.jpg )

The majority of this here is far too jumbled and overlapping for me to decipher as a short matter.. however, the rather bold subscript seems reads as follows:

"FELIC ERGO NOE QUAE PRAECEPERAT ILLI DEUS"
Or in the King James...
"Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he."

Hmmm... I suppose I 'may' wish look into deciphering the rest of this later.

It has occurred to me now that it would be rather hard to justify bothering the locals to inspect some 'random hilltop' without appearing too suspicious. I will have to think of a reasonable argument to make to Sheriff Parker. if I wish to acquire his aid, the people of these small towns are notoriously suspicious. However, having spoken to and made some kind of impression on his younger sister perhaps she can vouch for me?

It might be better just to ask her to come along instead. She was the large, muscular girl, correct?

You may have made a good impression on Clara (might have), but it's far too early to try to be calling in favors. You need something to give you some credit, first. I'm afraid it'll probably be a solo mission until you find some hard evidence that makes your cause seem plausible.

Allotter 2010/02/25(Thu)20:46 No. 138850 ID: 817cd3
File 126715958127.jpg - (66.31KB , 950x800 , prep 4.jpg )

For a moment my mind considers the completely preposterous idea of taking along Miss Parker with me should her brother not agree to the idea. What could posses me to even consider such a thing?

Even 'robust' as she is this is 'man's work' so to speak... Besides... the gossip could be deadly is a small town as this. A young woman roaming around the countryside with a strange, older man.

hmmm, I suppose I should take my toolbag, but would it be appropriate to be walking through the town with my gun? I suppose I 'could' pass it off a little hunting expedition?

If you NEED to explain yourself, you can say that you want to scout out the premises a bit, and that you're bringing your gun in case the opportunity to hunt pops up. And you can put your bag in your hat.

Allotter 2010/02/27(Sat)00:06 No. 139490 ID: 817cd3
File 126725801112.jpg - (387.00KB , 900x657 , go time.jpg )

The wind must have picked up some last night... a strong breeze rustles the dry grasses... and I can taste something different about the air today. It resonates a mournful tone through the hills just noticeable under the normal, if somewhat subdued, small town noises.

I feel all too aware of the weight of the gun upon my back... but no one seems to give it any special notice.

Allotter 2010/02/27(Sat)15:25 No. 139665 ID: 817cd3
File 126731310436.jpg - (392.54KB , 628x900 , no answer.jpg )

I find my way to the house of the Parker brother and sister by the directions of a few cautiously friendly children in the town. Is seems a well build frame, whitewashed with a black tar sealed roof.

No one answers my initial knock.... nor the second... or the third...

"Curious..."

I peer in through the glass and see no movement from the shadows inside...

I hear no sounds but the creaking frame of the house... and the low moaning wind carrying the sounds of the children playing at rhymes from over the hill behind me.

"Here we... the prickly pear prickly... here we go round the prickly pear at five o’clock in the morning..."

>>139665
Is the door locked?

Just sayin'.

>>139665
Push the door open if unlocked, and poke your head in to see if anything is obviously wrong.

Allotter 2010/02/28(Sun)14:00 No. 140201 ID: a56bd0
File 126739441848.jpg - (364.04KB , 700x702 , a look around.jpg )

"Erh... hello?"

Nor reply comes to my ears...

The rooms seem quite clean if a little cluttered and there is almost a clear divide between the masculine and feminine (at least I suspect it could pass for feminine.)

Aged posters and notices hang from some half of the vertical surfaces, while the other seems to be unpainted shelves covered in assorted bric-à-brac and whittled wooden toys.

The air smells of sandalwood, cedar and sage.

>>140201
Looks pretty normal. Is there somewhere else he could be during this time of day? You probably shouldn't trespass.

Huh... mono-colored rubix cube would either be incredibly easy or impossibly difficult. Anyway, I don't think going inside like this is a very good idea. Remember, both these people have jobs, and places of work where they'd likely be at during the day. It's only in the evenings, after the day's work is done, that you'd likely find them at their place of residence. DUMMY.

Allotter 2010/03/01(Mon)16:41 No. 140714 ID: 817cd3
File 126749049044.jpg - (39.07KB , 600x600 , nope1.jpg )

I decide better to not intrude and check Clara's workshop around back... nobody, well nobody but my dead predecessor and he's nailed in tight.

>>140714
I think we'd better check inside to make sure nothing happened, then. This situation seems odd.

Allotter 2010/03/01(Mon)17:10 No. 140729 ID: 817cd3
File 126749224364.jpg - (309.56KB , 700x700 , down.jpg )

I check inside again just to be sure. No signs of a struggle, no odd stains, no peculiar burns or scratches.

However, I do find a note scrawled in a kind of chicken-scratch handwriting on the ledger by the door.

"ARON"S A COWURD GOING TOO FIND SAM. TOOK PISTEL WATUR LANTURN 19 HOURS GONE. FIND ELEVATOR FIRST RESTOR POWER MIGHT WORK, MAYBE HANDCRANK?

CLARA---"

I decide to head over to the Jail/Sheriff's Office back in town. I am greeted by a bit of a commotion and shoo a small crowd of children aside to look in the window. I see a small mountain of a man getting some wounds treated by a few ladies who fuss over his bandages.

He turns a bleary eye to me.
>Who the fuck are... oh yeah.. yor that new preacher fella... well yur gunna be doing mur funerals soon t'looks like so... Whaddah yauh wunt?" he blurts out.

His lower lip is busted and already swollen. I can smell the whiskey in his breath and the sour smell of fear and hard labor on him. The clean shaven and somewhat slight of build Sheriff I met yesterday is nowhere to be seen.

>>140729
"Wait, more funerals?"

Allotter 2010/03/02(Tue)16:45 No. 141297 ID: a56bd0
File 12675771248.jpg - (325.83KB , 597x800 , funerals.jpg )

"Wait, more funerals?"

>"Yeah after me an Sheriff went n' took the awld fella by his sister to get all boxed up, Parker he said.. whe should go down looken' fer somethen in the mines... wouldn't tell meh whut we was looken fur but him... him and the alw fella was pretty confidential bout somethen.. saw them sometimes wispren bout somethem like they had some kinda secreat.. maybe they had some kinda treasure burried down there cause... suddenly we's getten pretty deep in the mine an the lights they jest go out and we's holleren and whoopen and suddenly I'm like... be'en 'sulted or sumate and theres somethen else down there yellen too and I got bit up and scratched up.. we were fraid of shooten so close and then I jest feal this tightness in mah chest and I kent breath.. s'like i'm froze up.. so I start runnen fast as I ken and I am runnen in the dark be'en chased by somat fur what seems forever.. make it to 'levator. I make it back nd I'm tellen his sister this see?"

"... go on?" I lean forward, trying to make out his hoarse, rambling tale.

>"Ans see the furst thing she does is tell me to get back in there and get her big brother.. so I tell her I'd rathur gotto hell.. fo 'fese sir?"

"erm.. so.."

>"und then she jest lays me one cross the face. was't the 'things' that busted up my face see?"

"...I see." Well, this is somewhat inconvenient.

Well fuck Clara's an illiterate little bitch. There goes any respect for her I might've had.

Anyway clearly this is Aaron and Clara left that message for someone, perhaps you, and took a pistol, some water, and a lantern. Not bad, I suppose. but I think it's about time you hoisted your shotgun and went after her to the mines... If you're lucky you'll catch her just as she's restoring power to the elevator.

...Gods I hate this backwater town.

Allotter 2010/03/03(Wed)20:18 No. 141702 ID: 817cd3
File 126767631777.jpg - (329.86KB , 800x594 , Castillo del Pago.jpg )

I gather a few directions to the mine and make the short climb up to what the locals described as an old Spanish mission turned silver mine.

"God I hate the countryside...its not some much the place itself... as *puff* the people you meet and..." I utter under my breath as I scale finally crest the hill.

I recognize someone, the frustrated Swiss gentleman from General Store... Field's was it? He appears to be berating an Oriental looking manservant about something.

>"...and if you hadden't been gambling with my things they would have told us which entrance was..."

>"They told me it had to be lik-"

>"And how often does listening to their exact instructions get us in deeper shi *he notices me*

>"Erh hello? Name's Silus... Silus Fields, I don't believe we've met yet, I've been informed there was yet another outsider in town."

>>141702
Well? Say hello, I guess? And ask him what he's doing out here.