Post by: Arx on December 12, 2018, 01:30:24 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Hey! My name's Melissa Liú, a student at Pangaea South Province University. Unfortunately the tuition fees here are rather above what my family can afford, and I've had to turn to freelance work. Well, that doesn't really describe it very well. More precisely, I'm a contract killer.
Okay, that makes it sound a lot worse than it is. I guess "bounty hunter" is a better term, but it's really more like I subcontract from a shadow government org. (Now I sound like I work for the mafia...)
Specifically, Pangaea's always had a large population of things that aren't human. Ever since the rise of the industrial revolution, we've been rubbing shoulders with them a lot more. Most of them are fine, but some are... uncivilised. Werewolves, vampires, goblins, things that go bump in the night... they get reported to the Council, who contract someone to fix the problem. Usually someone who doesn't have a lot of financial options. Like, say, if they had several thousand dollars of student debt. Obviously, especially for the human-like critters, this is all kinda illegal.
...maybe the mafia isn't such a bad comparison.
Anyway, long story short, I'm an amateur witch/monster/bounty hunter with a lot of debt, a really bad memory, and a habit of talking to the voices in my head. Sometimes I introduce myself to them in a really long-winded fashion. I just stepped into my apartment's main room, and I can't for the life of me remember what it was I was going to do.
(https://i.imgur.com/rxTC7Su.png)
| 1. | > Consult your to-do list. |
| 2. | > Check your e-mail, maybe there's something there. |
| 3. | > Maybe it's related to the mess on your desk. Check that out. |
| 4. | > Retrieve arms from chest. |
| 5. | > _ |
Spoiler: Statistics (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Crunch (click to show/hide)
).Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Tyrant Leviathan on December 12, 2018, 01:33:32 pm
Ffffffffffffffffffffffffffuuuuu-
Nah kidding aside this looks interesting.
Post by: NAV on December 12, 2018, 01:38:09 pm
Post by: Rockeater on December 12, 2018, 01:39:36 pm
Consult to-do list then check email.+1
Post by: a1s on December 12, 2018, 02:34:00 pm
+1Consult to-do list then check email.+1
So wait, this Council is shady, right? They aren't affiliated with the "real" government? Officially anyway.
Post by: Doomblade187 on December 12, 2018, 02:44:57 pm
+1, then retrieve arms from chest.+1Consult to-do list then check email.+1
Post by: Egan_BW on December 12, 2018, 05:40:05 pm
Anyway, all those options that the other voices are suggesting are boring. Didn't you have something that you wanted to write? Or uh, draw maybe? Listen, my memory isn't so good. Because I've always been here, in your skull, so I am totally able to remember that stuff! Just, not very well! Um, that's what the demons tell me, at least.
Was that too confusing? Sorry, let me TL;DR this:
Get on computer and write and/or draw something!
Post by: Rockeater on December 13, 2018, 01:43:26 am
Heya, Melissa! I'm new around here. By which I mean new to your skull. Which is probably fine, by the way! There is a 98% chance that I'm not a demon plotting to eat your soul! At least, that's what the voices tell me.Ignore this voice, listen to me, we need to kill supernatural beings.
Anyway, all those options that the other voices are suggesting are boring. Didn't you have something that you wanted to write? Or uh, draw maybe? Listen, my memory isn't so good. Because I've always been here, in your skull, so I am totally able to remember that stuff! Just, not very well! Um, that's what the demons tell me, at least.
Was that too confusing? Sorry, let me TL;DR this:
Get on computer and write and/or draw something!
Post by: King Zultan on December 13, 2018, 04:15:01 am
+1+1, then retrieve arms from chest.+1Consult to-do list then check email.+1
Post by: Arx on December 14, 2018, 03:25:42 pm
+1+1, then retrieve arms from chest.+1Consult to-do list then check email.+1
(https://i.imgur.com/dPDWtjj.png)
Genius! Whoever you are, I'm doubling your salary. Let's see...
(https://i.imgur.com/u8uwOUF.png)
Okay, dissertation, laundry, tutoring and groceries can wait. I guess I probably wanted to check the phase of the moon, since it's at the top and all. Maybe there's a Council email to do with the moon.
(https://i.imgur.com/T0cEmRy.png)
Oh, yeah, werewolf. Right. Needs to be full moon to hunt those, otherwise it's just murder. That's why the deadline is three weeks. Werewolves are pretty scary though! That's why the reward is so high. Goblins and poltergeists are less of an issue. I should pick something to do. Like maybe-
Get on computer and write and/or draw something!
(https://i.imgur.com/4cnNJo3.png)
Tempting, but I'm art blocked. Besides there's a more pressing issue! Rent is due in two days, all I have in the cupboard is a bag of rice, and, well...
(https://i.imgur.com/h3Zgbio.png)
Uh, where was I again?
retrieve arms from chest.
Right. Jobs. I should check my weapons again...
(https://i.imgur.com/xEyPzpZ.png)
Firearms are completely illegal in South Pangaea, so that's a custom-made Liú & Seven Different Unrelated SPPU Engineering Students spring-loaded revolver. I had each of them machine a different part. It takes me about three days to re-cock all the springs with the prybar, and it's not very useful past five or ten metres, but at least for critters with a material weakness it's useful.
That tray lifts off, but all there is underneath is a bunch of random junk I use to scrap together ammo for the DUSPPUES revolver or to decorate circles/throw at things/sharpen into shivs.
Hmmm. Not sure what I should do now.
| 1. | > The werewolf pays best, you should check out the moon phases. |
| 2. | > The goblins shouldn't be too bad, right? Why not have a look at them? |
| 3. | > The poltergeist has the lowest pay, but that should mean it's the quickest and easiest. |
| 4. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Kashyyk on December 14, 2018, 03:42:08 pm
Let's go Google some goblins! Or whatever it is we do to research stuff before going out and sticking a shiv in it. Maybe open the email too. Might give some details.
Post by: GPeter on December 14, 2018, 03:53:28 pm
Post by: Doomblade187 on December 14, 2018, 03:56:45 pm
Hmm... clearly a good way to defeat artist block is inspiration! And nothing will beat inspiration quite like a near-death experience with the paranormal. Hopefully by experiencing the death of a paranormal from nearby anyway.+1
Let's go Google some goblins! Or whatever it is we do to research stuff before going out and sticking a shiv in it. Maybe open the email too. Might give some details.
Post by: Rockeater on December 14, 2018, 04:15:56 pm
+1Hmm... clearly a good way to defeat artist block is inspiration! And nothing will beat inspiration quite like a near-death experience with the paranormal. Hopefully by experiencing the death of a paranormal from nearby anyway.+1
Let's go Google some goblins! Or whatever it is we do to research stuff before going out and sticking a shiv in it. Maybe open the email too. Might give some details.
Post by: Egan_BW on December 14, 2018, 07:54:25 pm
Oh yeah, and it sounds like you're underestimating goblins. Don't do that. Stop doing that. Wrong, bad idea. Goblins are bastards. Trust me, I read a documentary once.
Post by: King Zultan on December 15, 2018, 05:32:14 am
+1+1Hmm... clearly a good way to defeat artist block is inspiration! And nothing will beat inspiration quite like a near-death experience with the paranormal. Hopefully by experiencing the death of a paranormal from nearby anyway.+1
Let's go Google some goblins! Or whatever it is we do to research stuff before going out and sticking a shiv in it. Maybe open the email too. Might give some details.
Post by: Doomblade187 on December 15, 2018, 07:58:50 am
Post by: NAV on December 15, 2018, 02:55:28 pm
We should also get some armour.
+1+1+1Hmm... clearly a good way to defeat artist block is inspiration! And nothing will beat inspiration quite like a near-death experience with the paranormal. Hopefully by experiencing the death of a paranormal from nearby anyway.+1
Let's go Google some goblins! Or whatever it is we do to research stuff before going out and sticking a shiv in it. Maybe open the email too. Might give some details.
Post by: Arx on December 16, 2018, 02:59:31 pm
+1+1+1Hmm... clearly a good way to defeat artist block is inspiration! And nothing will beat inspiration quite like a near-death experience with the paranormal. Hopefully by experiencing the death of a paranormal from nearby anyway.+1
Let's go Google some goblins! Or whatever it is we do to research stuff before going out and sticking a shiv in it. Maybe open the email too. Might give some details.
Ooh, good idea. The goblins are probably the best return on investment, right? I guess I'll find out!
The Council and related people are far too old fashioned to have information on the internet though. You'd expect it to all be collected in dusty old tomes, bound in leather and with fancy gilt on the page edges, but it's not really like that. Most of the useful parts of my library are just foolscap pages stapled together with the notes I scribbled down when I could persuade someone to tell me something.
(https://i.imgur.com/ojIBwDj.png)
These books? Mostly novels. I bet you thought I had some great library of the arcane, didn't'cha? Nope! But at least I have the notes. As for goblins...
Quote
Goblins range drastically in size and power, depending on their location, age, feeding habits, and in no small part their natural strength. Creatures are usually considered goblins if they principally concern themselves with harassing humans, usually ones on the margins of society or that are otherwise weakened. The level of harassment depends on the marginalisation or weakness; a loner student is unlikely to be physically harmed, but is at risk of persistent "pranking". On the other hand, a homeless person or someone that has just suffered a car accident alone at night may be attacked, tortured, and potentially killed.
Weaker (and thus more common) goblins are rarely violent alone, but when in gangs are more likely to attack perceived easy targets. They are in many ways the hyenas of the supernatural world, although in most cases the exchange strength for intelligence.
All goblins share some defining characteristics. They are brutal and delight in suffering, but are cowardly and will flee a strong response. They are considered base creatures, and have an innate aversion and weakness to refinement. They in particular detest worked metals, running water, and fire and electricity - the elements of civilisation.
In reverse, they have an affinity for the filthy and unrefined. Raw stone, blood, green wood and excrement are all useless as deterrents.
...'kay, I wrote a bunch of notes on rural and industrial goblins here, but these are urban goblins so I'm gonna skip a bit.
Quote
Urban goblins rarely grow to the fearsome sizes of rural or wild goblins, but are typically larger than the diminutive industrial goblins and gremlins. Smaller specimens are usually on the order of 95cm tall, while very large specimens may reach up to 170cm or even 200cm in extreme cases. The average height is closer to 120cm, with a weight commonly on the order of 40-50kg.
Their build is typically squat and either powerfully muscled or obese, more commonly the latter. Lean or slender urban goblins are almost non-existent, due to the easy availability of junk food scraps.
Unlike their wild counterparts, urban goblins do not have powerful natural armaments. Their finger and toe nails are large, sturdy, and usually sharpened, and their teeth are pointed, but they are not equipped with strength particularly suited to using them as weapons. However, injuries from a goblin are all but guaranteed to carry tetanus and multiple diseases.
The intelligence of urban goblins is best described as "brute cunning". With the exception of goblin kings and queens or leaders of large gangs, they struggle with higher order thinking and have a cognitive level comparable to that of a six to seven year old, able to devise traps and primitive group tactics, but rarely thinking critically or planning in the long term.
Most urban goblins will arm themselves with anything available. It is very unusual for this to include complex weapons such as firearms, but it is not unheard of. The quality of the weaponry is usually directly correlated with gang size; gangs of less than ten rarely use anything more complex than clubs, while gangs of fifty or more could be equipped with almost anything not requiring technical expertise.
It is possible to bind or banish goblins, but since they are weak, obstreperous, objectionable servants, and have no empathy-stirring qualities, most hunters prefer to simply exterminate them.
And as for the email:
Quote
Urban goblins (3). Loiter near the corner of 3rd Street and Main Road. Sizes between 100cm and 150cm. No signs of unusual intelligence or armament. Absent during rush hour and near dawn and dusk. Appear mainly diurnal.
Reward: 900 kodi.
Deadline: 120 hours after receipt of this email.
Special conditions: none.
...I probably used to have some particular approach to handling goblins, but I've completely blanked on it. Huh.
That spring revolver sounds pretty weak. We should get a bow or crossbow. Unless those are illegal too.
We should also get some armour.
I'd love a crossbow. And a sword! It'd be kickass.
Mel Vision:
(https://i.imgur.com/XRK2Wa9.png)
How It Would Actually Go:
(https://i.imgur.com/6T5LENh.png)
So, uh, moving swiftly onwards, bows and crossbows are legal, but you need a license. Which I can't afford. I probably should make a completely legal bow, but I don't have any experience with archery. The other problem is that they're hard to conceal, so it's hard to pay quiet visits to people you want to assassinate.
I should get my padded jacket out the cupboard if I'm hunting goblins, though. It's just a regular jacket, but I've stitched some cotton batting onto the inside. Also, did you know that you can just order kevlar online? So I stitched some of that to the chest, back, and arms. It stops things from breaking the skin (well, so far it has), but getting stabbed still leaves a heck of a bruise. Oh, and I have a plastic breastplate. A gremlin suckerpunched me in the left boob once. Never again.
Anyway, goblins, huh.
| 1. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Kashyyk on December 16, 2018, 05:18:33 pm
It looks like quickly braining the first goblin with a wrench should put enough fear into the other two that they may flee or surrender.
How do we normally go about confirming completion of a job and then receiving payment?
Anyway, assuming no one else has any thoughts, I suggest scoping out the corner of Third and Main, see if we can find out what the goblins are typically up to.
Oh yeah, do we know anyone else in this business? Having someone else to watch our back would make such things infinitely easier
Post by: Doomblade187 on December 16, 2018, 06:01:40 pm
Post by: Egan_BW on December 16, 2018, 08:28:56 pm
Hmm. What do we do if we brain one and the other two scatter? Goblins seem hard to chase. And a street corner is a bad place to trap them.
Maybe we could find a way to lure them to a place that we can lock down and force a fight? Or maybe just put down a rabbit trap with some bait. :P
Post by: Sudurandom on December 16, 2018, 11:33:34 pm
Also you might be able to lure the goblins into a trap by faking an injury.
Post by: King Zultan on December 17, 2018, 05:17:27 am
Post by: Egan_BW on December 17, 2018, 05:19:50 am
Post by: NAV on December 17, 2018, 10:30:06 pm
+1 to getting tetanus shot.
We should make a few molotovs. Burn goblins burn.
That jacket and breastplate sounds very good for protecting the torso and arms. We should see about getting a helmet and some sort of leg guards. Even nail together some planks into a shield. You can never have too much armour (unless is slows you down or makes you look suspicious).
Post by: Arx on December 18, 2018, 03:53:54 pm
It looks like quickly braining the first goblin with a wrench should put enough fear into the other two that they may flee or surrender.
Anyway, assuming no one else has any thoughts, I suggest scoping out the corner of Third and Main, see if we can find out what the goblins are typically up to.
I should go take a look at the corner. For some reason, a wrench keeps coming to mind as a good weapon. This isn't exactly a machine shop, I just have some simple tools, but there is an alright-size shifting spanner I can grab. I'll take the carving knife too, it's easy to hide strapped under my skirt. Betcha thought the skirt was just for fashion. I shouldn't need either, but better safe than sorry.
(https://i.imgur.com/Gg5b6iS.png)
Armoured Coat: Mel will fatigue faster when running or climbing wearing this jacket. Defense rolls are counted as 2 higher against small slashing weapons and 1 higher against stabs.
I love autumn. It's warm enough that if I want to go somewhere in shorts so I can run easily I can, but nobody asks any questions if I wear a jacket around either. When winter comes around it's always miserable going on a stakeout.
While I'm walking, I should try and decide whether I want to ask someone for backup. Trouble is, most of the people I know aren't connected with this. The people I know that are usually want to split the reward, half are useless in a fight, and the ones that don't suck in a fight... Well, you know how I don't work for the mafia? I'm pretty sure most of those guys do. Some of them scare me more than the monsters. It would be nice to have backup, though.
I should look up how long tet shots are good for, too. I had one a few months back after the gremlin job, but it's probably no use now.
Oh, and I need to mail the Council liaison to ask where to leave the trophies. Pretty much all creatures carry little effigy-things around with them tied to their life forces. Something to do with not belonging properly in this world. I've never found someone willing to properly explain the metaphysics to me. Anyway, I usually stash them somewhere with a signed note and then the Council EFTs me a payment. It all looks very above-board, there's probably a place somewhere that claims to be contracting me as a part-time worker or something.
...I should also maybe grab some other stuff to use against the goblins while I'm out now. I'm really tempted to make firebombs, but I don't know if that's a good idea in the centre of town. Hmm.
Anyway, to the road!
Sorry this is so short. I have some artworks I need to finish on a deadline, and haven't had as much energy as I'd like lately. I'll post another update tomorrow, wherein Melissa will actually make it out of her house.
Feel free to post more suggestions, but the update will at least start with going to the corner.
Post by: Egan_BW on December 18, 2018, 05:32:29 pm
Post by: King Zultan on December 19, 2018, 06:47:42 am
No backup. Splitting the payout 50/50 would be terrible.+1 We need all the money we can get.
Post by: Arx on December 19, 2018, 02:36:29 pm
I should be pretty close to the spot. Kinda surprising, this area isn't too bad.
(https://i.imgur.com/c4AZZrj.png)
Maybe a bit weird and it's really working-class, but it's pretty clean and looked-after. Wouldn't be too worried about coming here after dark, as long as I moved quickly.
(https://i.imgur.com/ChLE0tq.png)
...ah. Decay like that is basically putting up a sign saying "goblins, please!" Bet you a kodi there's a broken window at the back and the goblins are nesting in there.
The lock's pretty cheap and in surprisingly good shape. I could probably pick it in the time it would take someone to legally open a rusty, sticky old lock, but I dunno if I want to. The goblins are supposed to be out and about right now, but they might be in there. This is probably the best chance I'll get to scope out the inside of the building, though.
| 1. | > Take the chance, pick the lock. You've got the weapons, after all. |
| 2. | > Too risky. Check down the alley and see if there is another way in or not. |
| 3. | > Try and peer in through the gap in the boards, maybe there's enough light to see. |
| 4. | > Meh, you've seen enough, just go home and prep. |
| 5. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Rockeater on December 19, 2018, 02:49:37 pm
Post by: Doomblade187 on December 19, 2018, 03:06:13 pm
Post by: Kashyyk on December 19, 2018, 04:23:20 pm
Peer through, then lock pick if clear. Check for traps before entering.This.
Also, don't be disheartened Arx, you're still getting into the rhythm of things. I look forward to seeing this progress.
Post by: Rockeater on December 19, 2018, 04:29:59 pm
Yea, +1 on thatPeer through, then lock pick if clear. Check for traps before entering.This.
Also, don't be disheartened Arx, you're still getting into the rhythm of things. I look forward to seeing this progress.
Post by: Doomblade187 on December 19, 2018, 05:13:03 pm
AyeYea, +1 on thatPeer through, then lock pick if clear. Check for traps before entering.This.
Also, don't be disheartened Arx, you're still getting into the rhythm of things. I look forward to seeing this progress.
Post by: Roboson on December 19, 2018, 05:41:35 pm
AyeYea, +1 on thatPeer through, then lock pick if clear. Check for traps before entering.This.
Also, don't be disheartened Arx, you're still getting into the rhythm of things. I look forward to seeing this progress.
+1.
Art takes time, inspiration, and energy. About 90% of the time you'll get 2/3. Just how life goes. Looks really good so far, has certainly drawn me in *laugh track plays in the distance*.
Post by: Egan_BW on December 19, 2018, 09:09:37 pm
Best to be as thorough as possible before stepping in. Any alternative entrance we know about is an alternative exit, too. For the goblins and for ourselves.
Post by: King Zultan on December 20, 2018, 04:37:24 am
+1AyeYea, +1 on thatPeer through, then lock pick if clear. Check for traps before entering.This.
Also, don't be disheartened Arx, you're still getting into the rhythm of things. I look forward to seeing this progress.
+1.
Art takes time, inspiration, and energy. About 90% of the time you'll get 2/3. Just how life goes. Looks really good so far, has certainly drawn me in *laugh track plays in the distance*.
Post by: Arx on December 21, 2018, 03:23:54 pm
+1+1.AyeYea, +1 on thatPeer through, then lock pick if clear. Check for traps before entering.
Check the window. Go down the alley and look there too. Be careful for traps in the alleyway, not just inside the building.
I should check around the back, first. Don't think the goblins will have done anything crazy, but you never know.
(https://i.imgur.com/4rlhxoz.png)
Well, nothing strange about this alley. That's a regular properly-boarded window, done from the inside. No traps on the street, unless you count that really narrow pavement I guess. That's a pedestrian hazard!
(https://i.imgur.com/51ope9K.png)
That's what I expected. Goblins could probably squeeze in and out through that hole if they're small enough. I wouldn't fit, though. I wonder if the door opens?
(https://i.imgur.com/3bBhT7l.png)
The handle's completely broken off. It has to be bolted or nailed shut from the inside. No getting in or out in a hurry here. Back around to the front!
Spoiler: Reminder how the front looks (click to show/hide)
I didn't hear anything while I was poking around, or see anything through the back, but I'll take a quick peek in here too.
(https://i.imgur.com/im0u1sM.png)
Alright crew, we've verified something important! It's really dark in there. I can't really see a thing. I don't think anything's moving, though.
No pedestrians around, no police around... alright, Mel, brace yourself. It's time to break the law for the first time! The first time today, that is. Actually, hiding the knife under my skirt is probably against the law. Well, this is maybe more illegal.
Deftness: [3] +1 = 4
(https://i.imgur.com/ilZuhP0.gif)
...aaaaand I got it. That took a while. Good thing no-one watched the whole thing, they would probably have wondered why it took so long to unlock a padlock. Time to see what's inside!
| 1. | > Pull out the wrench, shoot back the bolt and slam the door open! |
| 2. | > Slip the bolt open quietly and try to get in silently. |
| 3. | > Act natural! Open it up like you own the place. |
| 4. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Kashyyk on December 21, 2018, 03:36:06 pm
My phone can only show the first two thirds of the images by default, but I can just scroll sideways. Not actively checked how it looks on a computer.
Anyway, I think we should slip in quietly. There's no-one around, and we done want to alert the goblins.
Post by: Doomblade187 on December 21, 2018, 03:41:11 pm
Post by: Roboson on December 21, 2018, 03:45:26 pm
Spoiler: Re:Meta (click to show/hide)
+1 to sneaking
Post by: ~Neri on December 21, 2018, 05:26:58 pm
Post by: Egan_BW on December 21, 2018, 07:30:42 pm
At this point you don't need us to tell you to be careful, right? Careful. Move in quietly, opening the door just a crack to check for tripwires and such.
Post by: King Zultan on December 22, 2018, 05:36:39 am
The best way to introduce world information is obviously for the narrator to be randomly distracted mid sentence and absent mindedly drop like two paragraphs of rambling background. Don't at me.+1
At this point you don't need us to tell you to be careful, right? Careful. Move in quietly, opening the door just a crack to check for tripwires and such.
Post by: Rockeater on December 22, 2018, 06:21:43 am
+1The best way to introduce world information is obviously for the narrator to be randomly distracted mid sentence and absent mindedly drop like two paragraphs of rambling background. Don't at me.+1
At this point you don't need us to tell you to be careful, right? Careful. Move in quietly, opening the door just a crack to check for tripwires and such.
Post by: Arx on December 23, 2018, 02:03:11 pm
Melissa is too busy stealing Christmas to hunt goblins right now! Enjoy your Christmases everyone, regular updates resume on Boxing Day. <3
Now if you'll excuse me I have two portraits I need to finish before Christmas.
Post by: Arx on December 26, 2018, 01:10:44 pm
Sneak in, but only if we have a light source. We need to be able to see.
We brought a flashlight, right?
A torch is one of the things I never leave the house without!
(https://i.imgur.com/5jop0iM.png)
Anyway, I think we should slip in quietly. There's no-one around, and we done want to alert the goblins.
+1At this point you don't need us to tell you to be careful, right? Careful. Move in quietly, opening the door just a crack to check for tripwires and such.+1
+1 to sneaking
Sneak in, but only if we have a light source. We need to be able to see.
Deftness: 4 +1 = 5
This bolt isn't in the worst condition. With a tiny bit of care... there we go, open and silent. Now easy does it. I hope these hinges don't squeak.
...and clear! Torch out, let's see what awaits inside.
(https://i.imgur.com/2fC1xhO.png)
This is a goblin nest alright. Once smelt, it cannot be unsmelt. Uuuuuugh.
Chin up, Mel! Soldier on.
(https://i.imgur.com/Zk9jylD.png)
It's pretty much what I'd expect from an abandoned shop with goblins camping in it. It's probably for the best not to think too carefully about those puddles.
I don't see anything in here, and I don't hear anything running from the light, but I can't really see much behind the counter or in the back room. Gàn, the smell is rancid.
| 1. | > Pull a weapon and move around the back of the counter. |
| 2. | > Skip the weapon, just move quickly and quietly around the back. |
| 3. | > Peek over the edge of the counter and around the edge of the door. |
| 4. | > Pull a weapon and vault the counter. |
| 5. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Egan_BW on December 26, 2018, 01:17:15 pm
Post by: Kashyyk on December 26, 2018, 02:29:06 pm
Post by: Egan_BW on December 26, 2018, 03:34:08 pm
Post by: Arx on December 26, 2018, 03:48:24 pm
...yet.
Post by: Egan_BW on December 26, 2018, 03:50:43 pm
Post by: King Zultan on December 27, 2018, 05:57:43 am
Pick up bottle. Toss it through the door. Then proceed as the other one said.+1
Post by: GPeter on December 27, 2018, 06:45:23 am
+1Pick up bottle. Toss it through the door. Then proceed as the other one said.+1
Post by: Arx on December 28, 2018, 10:46:13 am
Equip the Wrench and step song the back of the counter. Make sure to check the space underneath it for lurking goblins.
+1Pick up bottle. Toss it through the door. Then proceed as the other one said.+1
That should stir up anything on the other side.
(https://i.imgur.com/817EvfU.png)
Pretty clean. Should be safe to handle. I can't yell in case there are passersby outside, but if I could, I would scream the ancient West Pangaean warcry
(https://i.imgur.com/xKYRFX7.png)
Chinese text: 這個婊子空了意图. Any errors and/or unclear translation are intentional.
...anyway, now there's broken glass all over the floor on the other side, but I don't hear anything. I wonder if there's a broom in here. My toms aren't exactly hobnailed.
Better grab the wrench just in case. I guess the glass will slow down anything trying to lunge at me.
(https://i.imgur.com/PyfqdOD.png)
Nope, all quiet. All of the goblins must be out and about somewhere.
Sunset should be in about... three hours? So it must be just about half past three now, and the goblins are usually here before the rush between four thirty ish and five thirty ish. Come to think of it, I'm lucky they're not here now. They might not even be back until after sunset, though.
I could try and set a trap in the time before they arrive, and ambush them. I could also go back and do some more prep and come back after nightfall. I might have a standard protocol here... but I can't remember it.
| 1. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on December 28, 2018, 10:58:56 am
Post by: Egan_BW on December 29, 2018, 02:51:29 am
Sweep away the glass into a corner so that it doesn't get in our way in a fight. We know where the goblins come in, so we can hide behind the counter in the front room, wait for all three to come in, then attack. That way we should be able to cut off their exit if they try to run away.
Post by: Rockeater on December 29, 2018, 05:19:14 am
No, don't look in the cabinets. Anything that would be in there wouldn't be useful to us, and they might be trapped.+1
Sweep away the glass into a corner so that it doesn't get in our way in a fight. We know where the goblins come in, so we can hide behind the counter in the front room, wait for all three to come in, then attack. That way we should be able to cut off their exit if they try to run away.
Post by: Arx on December 30, 2018, 03:55:51 pm
No, don't look in the cabinets. Anything that would be in there wouldn't be useful to us, and they might be trapped.+1
Sweep away the glass into a corner so that it doesn't get in our way in a fight. We know where the goblins come in, so we can hide behind the counter in the front room, wait for all three to come in, then attack. That way we should be able to cut off their exit if they try to run away.
Hmm, I think I'll avoid the cupboards. You never know what might fall out. I'll do a bit of cleanup in here and then get ready for the goblins.
(https://i.imgur.com/64zQcDq.png)
Well, that was intellectually stimulating. Better go hide and get ready.
(https://i.imgur.com/08Wr14l.png)
I love my... bang-tassel-things, but they're annoying in a fight. Step one is always to clip them away.
(https://i.imgur.com/y5Q3sYN.png)
Backup weapon ready: check. ...this isn't actually very practical, I just think it looks cool as heck. If I'm not allowed to be a bit chuuni, who is?
Anyway, the heart of a warrior is like a river. Calm on the surface, and a raging torrent beneath. Before fighting, I always meditate and clear my mind. I can do it for hours at a time.
(https://i.imgur.com/mrqlG3T.gif)
That was a lie. It's been about a minute and I'm bored out of my mind, and also kinda stressed. I don't want to be tortured, killed, and eaten by goblins!
...
I'm saved! I hear something crawling through the window. Well, "saved" is probably premature because this is exactly what I was worried about but it means I can stop worrying and start doing and that's a lot better unless I actually get hurt I guess.
I'll just take a peek over the top of the counter and see what I'm dealing with.
(https://i.imgur.com/yk2Pc9s.png)
Terrible picture, I'm sorry. I might even edit this in the morning.
...so as far as I can see in the dark (although my eyes have adjusted and some more sun is leaking in), they're all pretty scrawny. From smallest to biggest I'm gonna call them Bonehead, Knuckles, and Ears.
Spoiler: Battle Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Mel's Combat Stats (click to show/hide)
> _
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Egan_BW on December 31, 2018, 12:40:18 am
Right now they're all together and fairly far away, so not ideal for an ambush.
Post by: Doomblade187 on December 31, 2018, 01:19:08 am
Be still. Wait a while longer, see what they do, wait for them to be spread out and vulnerable.+1!
Right now they're all together and fairly far away, so not ideal for an ambush.
Post by: King Zultan on December 31, 2018, 05:24:12 am
Post by: Arx on January 01, 2019, 03:05:14 pm
I hear some movement. I think it's something like this...
(https://i.imgur.com/aV7G092.png)
Be still. Wait a while longer, see what they do, wait for them to be spread out and vulnerable.+1!
Right now they're all together and fairly far away, so not ideal for an ambush.
Try to get ones attention and bash it in the face with the wrench.
Well, they're stirring, and only one is heading this way. He'll be around this corner. Just have to wait... wait... wait...
Combat roll: 6 [Perfect Success] + 0 vs. 3
Wait...
(https://i.imgur.com/LQgHwJn.jpg)
Attention: got. That just leaves the messy business of the wrench.
(https://i.imgur.com/e8qGHBn.png)
I hate this part.
(https://i.imgur.com/rUsaO3u.png)
... I don't want to think right now.
Anyway, that was... quicker and easier than expected. That was the smallest, though, and the other two are on their way. Without the element of surprise, I don't think I can expect any more takedowns this clean. Mmm, "clean" isn't a good word right now.
I had a plan for the next two, but it's gone clean out of my head.
Note: Mel's blood is up. Adrenaline boosts Athletics and Pain Tolerance by 1.
Spoiler: Mel's Combat Stats (click to show/hide)
> _
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Kashyyk on January 01, 2019, 03:58:05 pm
They don't know What, and that gives us a slight advantage. Forcing a chokepoint like that should also make it harder for them to gang up on us.
Post by: Egan_BW on January 01, 2019, 05:09:08 pm
Post by: Doomblade187 on January 01, 2019, 08:29:59 pm
Get up against the adjoining wall and then get as close to that doorway as possible. Whilst they're probably expecting something now,+1
They don't know What, and that gives us a slight advantage. Forcing a chokepoint like that should also make it harder for them to gang up on us.
Post by: NAV on January 02, 2019, 12:45:04 am
+1Get up against the adjoining wall and then get as close to that doorway as possible. Whilst they're probably expecting something now,+1
They don't know What, and that gives us a slight advantage. Forcing a chokepoint like that should also make it harder for them to gang up on us.
Post by: Rockeater on January 02, 2019, 02:11:47 am
Recall watching a documentary (https://myanimelist.net/anime/37349/Goblin_Slayer) about slaying goblins.+1+1Get up against the adjoining wall and then get as close to that doorway as possible. Whilst they're probably expecting something now,+1
They don't know What, and that gives us a slight advantage. Forcing a chokepoint like that should also make it harder for them to gang up on us.
Post by: King Zultan on January 02, 2019, 03:54:13 am
+1Recall watching a documentary (https://myanimelist.net/anime/37349/Goblin_Slayer) about slaying goblins.+1+1Get up against the adjoining wall and then get as close to that doorway as possible. Whilst they're probably expecting something now,+1
They don't know What, and that gives us a slight advantage. Forcing a chokepoint like that should also make it harder for them to gang up on us.
Post by: Egan_BW on January 02, 2019, 06:22:13 pm
Recall watching a documentary (https://myanimelist.net/anime/37349/Goblin_Slayer) about slaying goblins.
There's a reason why I'm afraid of underestimating goblins, man.
Post by: Arx on January 03, 2019, 03:33:49 pm
+1Recall watching a documentary (https://myanimelist.net/anime/37349/Goblin_Slayer) about slaying goblins.+1+1Get up against the adjoining wall and then get as close to that doorway as possible. Whilst they're probably expecting something now,+1
They don't know What, and that gives us a slight advantage. Forcing a chokepoint like that should also make it harder for them to gang up on us.
I hear the one in the corner moving quickly. I think it was Knuckles.
(https://i.imgur.com/84o9akj.png)
Figure 1: Metal Gear Líu
He'll be through the door in a second.
Don't think. Strike.
Combat roll: 5 [Success] +1 vs. 3
(Note: I will only be treating rolled 6s as crits, just to keep things under control. Especially if you keep rolling like this.)
(https://i.imgur.com/iUJYfv6.png)
He'll feel that one tomorrow, but he's still in it. Ears has shifted over as well, now.
Spoiler: Battle Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Mel's Combat Stats (click to show/hide)
> _
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Random bonus (click to show/hide)
Post by: GPeter on January 03, 2019, 03:42:56 pm
Post by: Rockeater on January 03, 2019, 03:43:23 pm
Charge ears while knuckles is stunned, your highest chance is a 1v1 so you must not allow them to regroup (Kill the bastard)+1
Post by: Doomblade187 on January 03, 2019, 03:52:00 pm
+1, draw the knife if it would help.Charge ears while knuckles is stunned, your highest chance is a 1v1 so you must not allow them to regroup (Kill the bastard)+1
Post by: Kashyyk on January 03, 2019, 04:26:23 pm
Post by: Egan_BW on January 03, 2019, 04:33:29 pm
Post by: a1s on January 03, 2019, 07:24:34 pm
Spoiler: Re: Meta (click to show/hide)
+1, nix on the knife- dual-wielding is for fantasy book covers.+1,Charge ears while knuckles is stunned, your highest chance is a 1v1 so you must not allow them to regroup (Kill the bastard)+1draw the knife if it would help.
Post by: King Zultan on January 04, 2019, 05:01:05 am
+1Spoiler: Re: Meta (click to show/hide)+1, nix on the knife- dual-wielding is for fantasy book covers.+1,Charge ears while knuckles is stunned, your highest chance is a 1v1 so you must not allow them to regroup (Kill the bastard)+1draw the knife if it would help.
Post by: Arx on January 05, 2019, 02:52:38 pm
+1Spoiler: Re: Meta (click to show/hide)+1, nix on the knife- dual-wielding is for fantasy book covers.+1,Charge ears while knuckles is stunned, your highest chance is a 1v1 so you must not allow them to regroup (Kill the bastard)+1draw the knife if it would help.
Agreed. Bum rush Ears.
Don't hold back! Give your lizard brain the freedom it so desires! No mercy. No regret.
Knuckles looks like he'll be busy for a minute. This is like beating up malnourished geriatrics. I'd feel bad, if they hadn't apparently caused the death of the shop's owner.
Time to find out what Ears is up to-
Combat roll: 2 +1 = 3 vs. 4 +2 = 6 [Mel's defence successful (+3)]
(https://i.imgur.com/VSnJjig.png)
Zowie, that was close. Back on the attack!
Combat roll: 4 +1 = 5 vs. 3 +1 = 4 [Ears's defence failed (-1)]
(https://i.imgur.com/mp3IXgR.png)
...well, not what I was hoping for but now he can't glass me in the face and that should have messed up his hand. He's nowhere near out of it, though.
Spoiler: Battle Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Mel's Combat Stats (click to show/hide)
> _
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Egan_BW on January 05, 2019, 03:33:25 pm
Well, trying to parry a speeding wrench with just an already damaged bottle could pretty reasonably cause it to break. Tossing a seemingly intact bottle into the next room probably shouldn't outright shatter the thing, though. Even though that the logic that every videogame with throwable bottles uses.
Ears is disarmed and probably can't do much damage to us, so focus on offence!
It's, uh, nice to have an assurance that the worst this ISG will be horrific, agonizing, gruesome death? I guess that's reassuring?
Post by: Kashyyk on January 05, 2019, 03:57:39 pm
Go hard or go home is an admirable work ethic Arx. I look forward to how you handle less punchy scenes.
Post by: King Zultan on January 06, 2019, 06:13:32 am
Keep up the assault, we gotta at least stun Ears before Knuckles comes around.+1
Go hard or go home is an admirable work ethic Arx. I look forward to how you handle less punchy scenes.
Post by: Rockeater on January 06, 2019, 06:16:00 am
+1Keep up the assault, we gotta at least stun Ears before Knuckles comes around.+1
Go hard or go home is an admirable work ethic Arx. I look forward to how you handle less punchy scenes.
Post by: Doomblade187 on January 06, 2019, 11:27:56 am
Apply Wrench directly to goblin.+1Keep up the assault, we gotta at least stun Ears before Knuckles comes around.+1
Go hard or go home is an admirable work ethic Arx. I look forward to how you handle less punchy scenes.
Post by: a1s on January 06, 2019, 04:21:12 pm
+1Apply Wrench directly to goblin.+1Keep up the assault, we gotta at least stun Ears before Knuckles comes around.+1
Go hard or go home is an admirable work ethic Arx. I look forward to how you handle less punchy scenes.
Post by: Arx on January 08, 2019, 02:07:42 pm
Also, maybe it's just a fragile bottle! I haven't tested how breakable they are, I must confess.
The update tomorrow I'm thinking will move things along a bit more quickly, since there's not a whole lot of discussion to be had right now. It miiiight end up a little late, depending on how easy I find things to draw.
Post by: Arx on January 09, 2019, 02:55:01 pm
Ears is disarmed and probably can't do much damage to us, so focus on offence!
+1Apply Wrench directly to goblin.+1Keep up the assault, we gotta at least stun Ears before Knuckles comes around.+1
Go hard or go home is an admirable work ethic Arx. I look forward to how you handle less punchy scenes.
Combat roll: 2 +1 = 3 vs. 6 +1 = 7 [Mel's attack fails (-4)]
Combat roll: 3 +1 = 4 vs. 4 +1 = 5 [Ears's attack fails (-1)]
Combat roll: 4 +1 = 5 vs. 2 +1 = 3 [Mel's attack succeeds (+2)]
(https://i.imgur.com/1EWyngO.png)
That's winded him. Ears is out of it for a few seconds, but Knuckles has regained some of his senses. I can probably take one of them out of the fight for good here, but I'm not sure which to go for.
Spoiler: Battle Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Mel's Combat Stats (click to show/hide)
> _
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Doomblade187 on January 09, 2019, 04:20:13 pm
Post by: Egan_BW on January 09, 2019, 05:10:25 pm
Post by: Kashyyk on January 09, 2019, 06:46:18 pm
Anyway, were fighting Ears right? Finish Him!!
Post by: Rockeater on January 10, 2019, 02:28:05 am
Post by: King Zultan on January 10, 2019, 04:19:12 am
Post by: AzyWng on January 10, 2019, 08:16:30 pm
Post by: Arx on January 11, 2019, 03:10:39 pm
Finish Him!!
Ears is the stronger one. Drawing that knife would be an honest pain and we only have a second's opening, so go ham with the wrench.
Stab ears. No need to dual wield, but Let's end this.
Stab ears! Stab ears!
"Stab/Kill/Finish off" Ears idea.
FINISH HIM!
[Drawing the knife, or, specifically, stabbing wins.]
Time to dispense with Ears. I don't think I have it in me to beat in another skull with the wrench, though.
Athletics: 4 +1 = 5 [Success] [Target is incapacitated, no defense]
(https://i.imgur.com/h8k7iHt.png)
As the old West Antipangaean military doctrine goes, stick it in, twist it, rip it out. Eugh.
That leaves Knuckles.
Combat roll: 3 -1 = 2 vs. 4 +1 = 5 [Knuckles's attack failed (-3)]
Combat roll: 4 +1 = 5 vs. 3 -1 = 2 [Mel's attack successful (+3)]
(https://i.imgur.com/Z6L6a9T.png)
Farewell, Knuckles.
It's a good thing supernatural creatures' blood fades when you kill or bind them. It'd be awkward if I had to explain why I look like I hugged someone with a gut wound.
All that's left is collecting the effigies and dropping them off.
| 1. | > Head home first, maybe take a shower and clean up. |
| 2. | > Go straight to the drop-off. Get it all done in one trip. |
| 3. | > It's already nearly five. Do it in the morning. |
| 4. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Rockeater on January 11, 2019, 03:20:19 pm
Post by: Kashyyk on January 11, 2019, 03:22:25 pm
I'm actually quite liking the discretion shots regarding goblin shivving.
Post by: Egan_BW on January 11, 2019, 03:29:03 pm
Victory Achieved! Go deposit the effigies next.
Post by: King Zultan on January 12, 2019, 05:12:33 am
Since we don't have to clean up any blood, I say we can safely head straight to the drop off. Don't forget the wrench though. Leaving that behind might be awkward to explain..+1
I'm actually quite liking the discretion shots regarding goblin shivving.
Post by: Arx on January 12, 2019, 09:23:26 am
| Effigies | ||
For one reason or another, the life force of supernatural entities is usually associated with a small token that represents or symbolises them in some way. For the three goblins I just ran into, the effigies are quite close to being "literal" - that is, they look like their effigies. A fully literal effigy would be a tiny sculpture of the creature, but in this case they're just crude sculptures.
(https://i.imgur.com/iwzTulN.png)
The symbolic component here is the way the effigies are made. Because these are weak urban goblins, they're made of mainly human-generated rubbish. If they were wild goblins, it'd be natural debris like bones, gravel, and twigs. If they were stronger, the effigies might become either more literal, as less crude sculptures, or they might become more symbolic - the effigies of powerful goblins often take the form of weapons. A powerful goblin gang leader might become a nail-studded baseball bat, or a wild goblin king a vicious serrated scimitar.
Here, obviously, the effigies are broken, because I killed the goblins. If I'd taken the effigies by binding them, the tennis ball wouldn't be broken, the twig wouldn't be snapped, and the cork wouldn't be cracked. A magician could retrieve the goblins from the effigies if they were so inclined, but I don't have any magical talent (or inclination to it), although I am pretty involved in the supernatural in other ways, I suppose.
There's no way to create an effigy and a supernatural being out of whole cloth. You can make an effigy easily, but without a source of spiritual energy it's just a collection of stuff. Apparently it's possible to transpose the soul of a human into an effigy, but that's... frowned upon. Either the body dies and you have a trapped soul, or the body doesn't die and you end up with a zombie and a trapped soul. Sometimes magicians snap and transpose their own souls into an effigy in pursuit of immortality. This process invariably kills the body, but the soul usually retains control, and that's how you end up with liches.
The Council takes a rather dim view of soul transposition.
Anyway, even a broken effigy has traces of the spirit on it. The Council has magicians that can match those up to the recorded incidents, which is how they verify my success and pay me. I feel kinda bad for the poor sucker whose job it is to sit behind a desk sorting through piles of actual garbage going "yep, that was Ears the goblin, alright".
Some spirits the Council will pay a small premium if I can deliver the effigy undamaged. In the case of the goblins, they'd pay me a sweet, sweet zero kodi bonus, but for the poltergeist or werewolf they might tip me 5-10%. It's supposed to discourage me from trying to sell them on the black market instead. Personally, my attachment to my kneecaps keeps me on the straight and narrow anyway, but it takes all kinds I suppose.
I think that's everything I know about effigies, really. Other than boring laundry lists of the types I've found, which one day I'll probably compile into a spreadsheet and try and find correlations or something. I wonder if the Council is into big data...
| The World According to Mel | ||
(https://i.imgur.com/3VKomkD.jpg)
Pangaea in stereographic projection. Note that due to the nature of a stereographic projection, this landmass is roughly the size of Eurasia and North America combined.
Compare to Earth. (https://i.imgur.com/jxTX1BU.jpg)
Since this planet only has two continents, each near a pole, stereographic projections are pretty common. The discovery of Antipangaea in the 1600s was a bit embarrassing, seeing as Pangaea isn't really the only continent and all.
For long, complicated, historical reasons, the Central Pangaean conventions get used for most things. That's why North Pangaea is called that... even though it's south of the north pole. It's easier than calling it West-est Pangaea. Or East-est Pangaea? South Pangaea 2? Yeah, you get the idea. Scientific maps and such use different names, but politically the north pole is considered to be in Central Pangaea.
Also, this map might not be right! I study ancient literature and comparative theology. I think most things are roughly in the right place. I know SPPU is landlocked somewhere south-east of the South Pangaean Sea, and I know Chéngshì (my and my dad's hometown) is on the coast in the northern part of West Pangaea.
I don't generally worry about much other than general directions and areas, though. My interest is generally things like "North Peninsulan Mysticism" or whatever, anyway.
Don't ask about Antipangaea. I know it's oddly symmetrical to Pangaea, but that's about it.
There, data dump. The section on geography will probably only ever be tangentially relevant, feel free to ignore it, but the section on effigies is probably going to be fairly core mechanically.
Post by: Arx on January 13, 2019, 02:48:34 pm
2, the sooner we finishwith it the faster we can do other things
Victory Achieved! Go deposit the effigies next.
head straight to the drop off. Don't forget the wrench though. Leaving that behind might be awkward to explain..+1
Let me check if I got the location.
(https://i.imgur.com/BVpa4Cr.png)
Yup, that looks about right. Abdullah is my contact with the Council. I guess if this were a cheesy spy movie I'd say he's my handler? He kinda scares me, to be honest. I try to avoid him as much as I can.
(https://i.imgur.com/cT2IX7O.png)
Of course, even though the location is close, it's got to be across a river. I swear Abdullah does this on purpose to mess with me. It's not that I have anything against rivers, it's just that I feel like unlucky things happen way too often after I cross decent-size bodies of running water. It's the kind of thing you don't put much stock in until the first time you bump into a pixie, you know? Patterns are important. Unless it's just confirmation bias, I guess, but it doesn't feel like it. Although that's also part of confirmation bias.
Anyway! By the time I make it to the drop-off and back home and take a shower (I can still smell goblin on my clothes. Also, even though the blood is gone I could swear I can still smell it on my hand), it'll be pretty late and pretty dark. I won't be able to get anything more done today, that's for sure, but I should think about what else I can do.
Reminder:
(https://i.imgur.com/g26Irpl.png)
Oh! And I'll probably have 900 kodi when I wake up. The Council doesn't really do "working hours". I need to spend 500 of that on rent, and I have a principle that at least 10% of everything goes towards clearing debts, plus I need groceries, but I should still have a tidy sum left over to pick up anything I might need for more jobs. I was thinking of a bow when I was prepping for the goblins, I think.
| 1. | > Look at the werewolf next, at least to see what it entails. |
| 2. | > The poltergeist should be a quick, easy-ish job, right? |
| 3. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: KitRougard on January 13, 2019, 03:14:02 pm
EDIT: Actually, a high-profile target, like a powerful creature, would be a bad idea. Too obvious. How comfortable would you be with taking in a minor creature and taking care of it, training it, that kinda stuff. Do effigies change as a creature gets stronger?
Post by: Doomblade187 on January 13, 2019, 04:58:00 pm
Post by: Egan_BW on January 13, 2019, 05:03:07 pm
Keeping a
Post by: KitRougard on January 13, 2019, 06:26:17 pm
Kneecaps will disappear, just as fast as the target.
So we get someone we haven't been told of yet who's causing a bit of trouble around town, get them with us before they cause too much trouble. BOOM self-esteem up as we raise a goblin as a attack pet.
Post by: Kashyyk on January 13, 2019, 06:32:59 pm
We could deal with the poltergeist, then time skip until some more contracts turn up. I wouldn't be opposed to a few day-in-the-life sequences either, would be nice to learn a bit more about our girl.
Post by: KitRougard on January 13, 2019, 07:39:35 pm
Depending on the summonability of Bound creatures, that is. In fact!
The below is purely speculative planning. I would like Mei's input on it, but it is not the main idea. The main idea is jumping a spook (poltergeist job)
--If Bound creatures can be summoned from their effigies easily by us:
Find a minor, but intelligent, creature with potential. Take them in, care for them, train them.
Familiar/Effigy Weapon Get!
--If they cannot be easily summoned:
Find a creature that is likely to have a Weapon Effigy. Bind them. Easy as that.
Effigy Weapon Get!
Post by: Arx on January 14, 2019, 05:36:12 am
Hm, you mention that powerful creatures mean powerful weapon Effigies... Check up on that Werewolf thing, then tell me, do you have any experience with this "binding" you mention? Could we, perhaps, hunt down a powerful creature outside of our current missions, and capture it, make it our familiar/sentient magical weapon?
Well, they're not necessarily powerful weapons. Sometimes they can do neat tricks, but that's about it. Like Abdullah's axe, which I've heard never needs sharpening and is always hot enough to fry an egg on.
I've also heard he got it by fighting a twelve metre lamia of earth and fire to a standstill, in the caldera of an active volcano, and binding it in a seven-hour ritual after it passed out.
(https://i.imgur.com/VB4zeWZ.png)
I kinda couldn't do that. Abdullah scares me a bit. I'm not sure he's still all human.
Most weapon effigies are just weapons. They're harder to break, harder to blunt, usually better than a mundane weapon of the same kind, but just weapons.
Quote
EDIT: Actually, a high-profile target, like a powerful creature, would be a bad idea. Too obvious. How comfortable would you be with taking in a minor creature and taking care of it, training it, that kinda stuff. Do effigies change as a creature gets stronger?
Most supernatural creatures are pretty static. The ones that aren't are either really big (like deities) or really dangerous (like vampires). Anything that can get stronger usually does so pretty fast, and they almost always go on rampages and/or slip their bindings. Also, they get stronger by feeding on spiritual energy. I'm not really a fan of it.
What does binding entail, and could we summon beings from effigies?
Binding is usually just a formulaic ritual, depending on what you want to bind.
I, uh, have about as much magical ability as a piece of gravel. I can bind creatures, and release creatures I bound, but very little more. It's like the difference between being able to follow a recipe without burning yourself and being able to cook properly, you know? What you might call actual magic isn't really within my reach.
I do know a lot of bindings though! I probably know more than any of the Council's other contractors. Also, most spirits that don't hate humans get along with me unusually well. I try to be nice to them in return. Between the two, I'm still useful to the Council even though I'm a bit of a squib.
But yeah my ability to use creatures in a fight is limited to pointing them in the other direction and hoping they don't kill me. And it's not always much fun trying to stuff the genie back in the bottle, either... Yeah, I just stick to what I know. It's safer.
--If they cannot be easily summoned:
Find a creature that is likely to have a Weapon Effigy. Bind them. Easy as that.
Effigy Weapon Get!
It sounds easy in my head, but it's gotta be an intelligent creature whose defining characteristic is fighting, but that I can take or trap down by myself. I was thinking of trying to find maybe a scorpion spirit, but I'm pretty sure its effigy would just be a claw or tail charm, which aren't much good as weapons. Maybe I'll remember something useful later... I can definitely do it, but it'd be a bit of an undertaking. I think I'd have to do it by ambush if I wanted anything of much size.
Post by: KitRougard on January 14, 2019, 08:18:49 am
EDIT: Also, when I said "stronger" I meant physically stronger, not spiritually stronger. Like, what would a goblin like Ears be like if he had a proper diet and time at the gym?
But that's a tiny bit off track, we'll return to this later. For right now, we're dealing with the poltergeist!
Post by: King Zultan on January 14, 2019, 08:21:57 am
For right now, we're dealing with the poltergeist!+1
Post by: Arx on January 15, 2019, 02:37:29 pm
Wolfman's time-sensitive, and pays lots of juicy cashdollarskodi. Though maybe the more subtle way will be better than trying to wrench and/or shiv it to death.
Check up on that Werewolf thing
Well, as for the moon...
(https://i.imgur.com/6KVuBVg.png)
It'd be safest to do it on Wednesday, although I might be able to get it the day before or after. It'd be a bit chancy, though.
Quote from: Email
Male, 174cm, approx. 80kg. South Pangaean, black hair cut short. Commutes to work at 7 and returns by 5:30 on weekdays. Employed in service sector, do not approach at work. No apparent regular activities on weekends.
One immediate relative: spouse, currently in inpatient care after severe alleged dog attack on the 24th of last month, likely the wolf spirit. No children.
Spirit appears to be characteristic savage wolf spirit. Active possession induces partial transformation of head and extremities. Specific physical characteristics of possessed host unknown, but typical enhanced abilities appear to be present.
According to Council regulations, you will be held responsible for any harm you cause to the host.
I can look up my notes on werewolves and other possessions, and ask the Council for more information if anything comes to mind. First, though, I want to look at the poltergeist case.
We could deal with the poltergeist
For right now, we're dealing with the poltergeist!+1
Quote from: Email
Resident at local branch of South Pangaea Community Library. Appears to be of "playful" type, likely natural in origin not spirit of the deceased. No records of harm associated with geist. Likely a spirit of wind or of minor upsets. Largest exerted force observed approx. 100N. Measurement unverified, based on observation of aftermath.
Disturbance to library staff and patrons to be minimised.
I quite like spirits, so this all makes sense. Most likely a dust devil was playing in the library courtyard, got pulled through a door or window by a pressure change, and got stuck. Now it's milling around entertaining itself by pushing things over or moving them to confuse people.
If it is a spirit of upsets, then it's a bit more complicated because it's not just bored and trapped, it's a bit more malicious, but at least it isn't tripping people or knocking things onto them.
Either way, the bindings are quite simple and I know them by heart. Doing it without bothering the library's users legitimate occupants might be a bit harder, though... I think I'd get in trouble if I got caught drawing lines across the aisles in salt or fresh soil. Hmmm.
Now, the question is, do I want to look up more about the werewolf and start making preparations, or go for the poltergeist first...? I have tomorrow off as well, apart from the couple of other things I need to get done.
| 1. | > Look up the rest of the details on werewolves. |
| 2. | > Let's leave that aside for now and do [something] about the poltergeist. |
| 3. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Kashyyk on January 15, 2019, 04:25:50 pm
So are ghosts a salt and iron kind of deal? I'm assuming there's slightly less chance of bodily harm with a spirit.
Post by: Egan_BW on January 15, 2019, 06:14:48 pm
Begin investigation of the Geist by visiting the library! Hey, bet there's some books you want to check out while you're there, anyways.
Post by: KitRougard on January 15, 2019, 06:33:06 pm
AND I'LL CALL YOU MEI IF I WANT TO, MEI!
Post by: King Zultan on January 16, 2019, 04:30:48 am
Hm. May as well go for the Geist. Can think about the werewolf later.+1
Begin investigation of the Geist by visiting the library! Hey, bet there's some books you want to check out while you're there, anyways.
Post by: Arx on January 18, 2019, 10:11:23 am
Well, the geist has a much shorter deadline than the werewolf (and the ideal werewolf date is after the geist deadline anyway) so lets focus on the geist
Remember what we can about poltergeist strength/weakness/quirks, and PREPARE!
May as well have a quick look at the file before I go.
(https://i.imgur.com/9HviB5r.png)
Of course, since I wrote all these notes, I know nearly all of it by heart. The highlights are that you get three different kinds of poltergeist: wild, anthropogenic (it's a mouthful, but what else do you call them?), and undead. Wild poltergeists are nearly always wind spirits, which means they really dislike elemental earth, and have a mild aversion to human artifacts. Anthro poltergeists are usually spirits of misfortune, so they hate symbols of luck. Since they're a kind of pestilent spirit, you can also chase them around with anything symbolically pure. Undead poltergeists are restless ghosts. You can handle them with pretty much any standard exorcism or way of putting the dead to rest. I hear Antipangaean rednecks use a shotgun loaded with salt.
Begin investigation of the Geist by visiting the library! Hey, bet there's some books you want to check out while you're there, anyways.+1
I should have a look, yeah. Maybe I can check out the latest Amanda Misty novel while I'm there... In any case, I don't remember the library's layout perfectly and I dunno where the geist is hanging out. Also, I should confirm its type before carting an entire sack of compost or whatever in.
Hey! We aren't just going to wander in there with our current loadout!
Hmm? Get it together, Mel! There's no reason to be nervous of a poltergeist with no history of harming people. Also, I always have salt and iron nails on me. Neither of them's really perfect, but if it picks a fight with me for some reason I can definitely make an exit.
Reminder: Mel keeps these things in her pockets all the time. Plus keys and phone. Unless she forgets them. That only happens occasionally. Like once a week, tops.
(https://i.imgur.com/5jop0iM.png)
Anyway, it's too late to go to the library now. I'm gonna cook some rice, work on an essay, and hit the sack.
Inelegant Timeskip: Sunday morning, 8:30ish
Library time! They close in the early afternoon on a Sunday, so I need to move with a bit of speed if I want to visit twice during opening hours, but it's not like anywhere's exactly far in this city.
(https://i.imgur.com/dN9Ewuu.png)
That rat has been tailing me for three blocks now. It's also larger than most house cats. I have a worrying feeling there's something less-than-normal at play here.
| 1. | > Discretion is the better part of valour. Leave it be. |
| 2. | > That's probably worth checking up on. |
| 3. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: mightymushroom on January 18, 2019, 03:55:32 pm
If it's still around when you leave the library, or if it follows you inside, politely ask if it has a message for you. Open communication solves many problems.
Also, you like Amanda Misty too?! The series about the secret agents who are dating is, like, my all-time favorite! So romantic, but with explosions! They should make a movie!
If this 'geist does turn out to be a wind elemental type, is there something they are attracted to? So that we could, say, lure it out an open window instead of trying to banish it with compost? Sounds like it would already want to get away, the only trouble is collecting that fee afterward ...
Post by: King Zultan on January 19, 2019, 09:49:30 pm
Post by: Egan_BW on January 19, 2019, 09:56:42 pm
Post by: Kashyyk on January 20, 2019, 03:05:09 am
I'd say leave it be. If it keeps following then we know it ain't a fluke.
Post by: Rockeater on January 20, 2019, 03:58:41 am
Investigate the rat.+1
Post by: KitRougard on January 20, 2019, 11:38:11 am
+1, because all this talk about familiars and binding has me convinced it's either...Investigate the rat.+1
A: Someone doesn't like us and has their familiar spying
Or
B: This rat has taken an honest interest in us and would be willing to be our familiar.
Post by: Arx on January 21, 2019, 01:48:09 pm
I say let it be for now
I. Just really. Don't care about the rat. It's a rat. Rats are not interesting. I don't feel like paying attention to it.
I'd say leave it be.
+1Investigate the rat.+1
Hmm. I'm conflicted.
If it's still around when you leave the library
Ah, that'll work. If it's still lurking around, I'll worry about it then.
You have pokemon, right?
Koudaimon? Why did I think it was called Pokemon? Weird.
Can other, less supernaturally involved people see it? (That last one because, for a voice in someone's head, I have a curious worry about things being only in someone's head.)
It definitely exists. To someone totally innocent, it probably just looks like a big rat, though.
Anyway! Enough worrying about the rat for now. I have a library to visit.
(https://i.imgur.com/ve6xeIN.png)
The whole library is pretty much just shelves like these. Maybe two metres tall? The aisles are a metre and a half to three metres, depending on the exact aisle. The shelves around the walls are three metres, I'd need to ask a librarian to bring a ladder if I wanted to get something off the higher shelves. Fortunately, most crime fiction is on the smaller shelves, including Amanda Misty.
That's not relevant right now though! There's a geist in here, somewhere. Probably near a draft? There should be an aircon unit around somewhere...
Oh, there it is.
(https://i.imgur.com/Kijicsk.png)
D'awww. Little 'geist looks so happy. That's definitely a wind spirit. On the plus side, it's probably not a threat! On the minus side, this is a little like having a toddler running loose in the library all the time.
If this 'geist does turn out to be a wind elemental type, is there something they are attracted to? So that we could, say, lure it out an open window instead of trying to banish it with compost? Sounds like it would already want to get away, the only trouble is collecting that fee afterward ...
They're attracted to drafts and other wind. I wonder if I could squeeze the reward out of the Council if I just chased it out...? After all, it's not like it's a hazard in the same way as goblins or whatever. Hmmm, what to do?
Well, I'm here now. I should make the most of it.
| 1. | > Comb the library to draw a kind of map. |
| 2. | > Ask the librarians if there's an evacuation plan you could look at. |
| 3. | > You've seen enough, head home and kit up. |
| 4. | > Go for broke! Maybe you can sort it out now. |
| 5. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on January 22, 2019, 06:49:34 am
Post by: Doomblade187 on January 22, 2019, 07:26:04 am
Lets just chase it out.Aye, lure it out of the library.
Post by: Kashyyk on January 22, 2019, 08:29:55 am
Post by: mightymushroom on January 22, 2019, 09:50:38 am
Post by: Arx on January 23, 2019, 02:34:48 pm
We should draw up acrudesimple map of the library so we know where the windows are, or whether there are any "dead ends" to avoid. On the other hand, if there's a nook or something humans aren't supposed to exit through but has a window for a happy little geist, that would be ideal to lure/chase it out.
It's something like this, mostly. Maybe not to scale.
(https://i.imgur.com/S2GWDMc.png)
The 'geist is hovering over on the left in the children's section.
Agreed. Let's lure it out of the library.
Lets just chase it out.Aye, lure it out of the library.
(https://i.imgur.com/4KBiVF9.png)
This is the most I can do for things to herd a spirit right now, though. I should probably pop home first.
We should probably tell the library staff first though
The best possible outcome I can think of for walking up to the librarian and saying "I'm going to chase a poltergeist out of here, please don't mind me" is being politely asked to leave.
(https://i.imgur.com/OpQjCNq.png)
| 1. | > You've seen enough, head home and kit up. |
| 2. | > Go for broke! Maybe you can sort it out now. |
| 3. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: KitRougard on January 23, 2019, 04:38:01 pm
Post by: Egan_BW on January 23, 2019, 06:53:51 pm
The trick to doing weird things like carrying a jar of mulch and a mop into a library is to pretend you're supposed to be there.
Post by: King Zultan on January 24, 2019, 05:21:07 am
Post by: Rockeater on January 24, 2019, 05:26:07 am
Lets go home and get the stuff.Check if the rat still there, obviously
Post by: Kashyyk on January 24, 2019, 06:53:51 am
I concur with the others, Lets go gear up, then come back and evict the 'geist
Post by: Doomblade187 on January 24, 2019, 05:14:36 pm
Post by: mightymushroom on January 24, 2019, 07:18:36 pm
Post by: Arx on January 27, 2019, 12:18:42 pm
Kitting up first sounds like a fine idea.
Prep, then become the ghostbuster! Or the ghost friend. Ya know.
I concur with the others, Lets go gear up, then come back and evict the 'geist
Alright, time to go back home, grab what we need, and finish this off.
The trick to doing weird things like carrying a jar of mulch and a mop into a library is to pretend you're supposed to be there.
Nyeh... Go home and kit up - Or chase that rat if it's still there.
Lets go home and get the stuff.Check if the rat still there, obviously
No point trying anything with just what I have here. Now I know what I'm up against, it should be pretty straightforward with proper tools. I can have a look at the rat, too, if I see it.
Do those librarians want the 'geist around or something? What does everyone have to make everything so hard for us?
It's not as though they can tell it's there. They probably think it's teenage hooligans or something. Innocents, remember?
In any case, I should be going.
(https://i.imgur.com/7Cgoai8.png)
Combat roll: 2 vs. 3 (Rat's attack fails)
There's definitely something more than natural about this rat. I can stick around and fight, or make a break for it. Silver's anathema to incarnate spirits, so my shiv will cut like a hot knife through butter, but it's short and this jacket isn't much of a defense against those teeth and claws.
I think it's a feral spirit of some kind. The same thing as is responsible for werewolves, if it takes root in a human host. In a rat, they just make the host more dangerous - sometimes they kill cats. But, y'know, a rat is a rat and sooner or later it gets hit by a car, poisoned, starves, or dies of old age. I don't know what's with this one that it's stalking me and so eager to pick a fight.
| 1. | > Valour and discretion haven't got a divorce in the time you were at the library. Cut and run. |
| 2. | > Go for the throat. You've got the size advantage. |
| 3. | > Play it slow. Back off, try and trap it. |
| 4. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: KitRougard on January 27, 2019, 01:19:36 pm
ATTACK RAT!
Also, purposeful possession could be a thing - use the Wererat's power without the loss of control, that kinda deal.
Post by: Doomblade187 on January 27, 2019, 07:28:02 pm
Post by: mightymushroom on January 27, 2019, 09:34:56 pm
Although I think it might already belong to somebody else.
Sure, I guess, trap it if we can, but keep that shiv ready to react in case it tries that again.
Post by: Egan_BW on January 27, 2019, 11:18:56 pm
Post by: Rockeater on January 28, 2019, 12:57:18 am
Go for the trap/bind. I'm telling you, even if its a rat, people keep rats as pets all the time. So if we were to keep this one as a pet, train it, treat it well...+1
ATTACK RAT!
Also, purposeful possession could be a thing - use the Wererat's power without the loss of control, that kinda deal.
Post by: King Zultan on January 28, 2019, 03:21:17 am
+1Go for the trap/bind. I'm telling you, even if its a rat, people keep rats as pets all the time. So if we were to keep this one as a pet, train it, treat it well...+1
ATTACK RAT!
Also, purposeful possession could be a thing - use the Wererat's power without the loss of control, that kinda deal.
Post by: High tyrol on January 28, 2019, 08:16:59 pm
Post by: Arx on February 02, 2019, 07:00:02 am
+1Go for the trap/bind.+1
PUT RAT IN TRAP YIS
Sure, I guess, trap it if we can, but keep that shiv ready to react in case it tries that again.
I've got a bit of space, I should be able to pull out the salt. I don't know if it'll be perfect, but it should do something.
Deftness: 3 + 0 = 3 [Partial failure]
(https://i.imgur.com/WHYcFIM.png)
Combat Roll: 2 vs. 3 [Rat's attack succeeds]
(https://i.imgur.com/uKRg7Rj.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/K8gkm7i.png)
Alright Mel you can still salvage this just stop screaming for a second and
Deftness: 2 + 0 = 2 [Failure]
(https://i.imgur.com/HemIZQG.png)
Great. The salt's mostly spilt from the bag, but at least it does look like the rat doesn't like it.
I can try and salvage the salt to corral the rat, or kill it, or just run. My ankle hurts like fury, but it's not enough to stop me.
| 1. | > Try and use the salt. Maybe try _________ |
| 2. | > Just try and kill it. |
| 3. | > Quit while you're not too far behind. |
| 4. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: KitRougard on February 02, 2019, 10:42:04 am
NATURAL +1 DEFT
WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN US
Post by: King Zultan on February 02, 2019, 05:08:42 pm
Post by: Egan_BW on February 02, 2019, 08:39:18 pm
Post by: mightymushroom on February 04, 2019, 06:43:26 pm
Grab the rat rub it in the salt.
Yeah, I'm in favor of rubbing the rat in the salt plan. It's already spilled and we're probably not scooping it up again, we should try to use it.
Post by: Enemy post on February 04, 2019, 07:04:45 pm
Grab the rat rub it in the salt.
Yeah, I'm in favor of rubbing the rat in the salt plan. It's already spilled and we're probably not scooping it up again, we should try to use it.
+1
Post by: Arx on February 06, 2019, 11:13:57 am
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DyutwHQXgAAEoNL.jpg)
Regular update again tomorrow or the day after. Unfortunately I will increasingly have university workload to deal with, so updates are going to slow. Hopefully not too far, though!
Post by: Arx on February 09, 2019, 12:57:03 pm
Annoying. Kill it.
Grab the rat rub it in the salt.
Yeah, I'm in favor of rubbing the rat in the salt plan. It's already spilled and we're probably not scooping it up again, we should try to use it.
+1
Combat Roll: 4 + 1 vs. 1 (Mel's attack successful)
(https://i.imgur.com/gN2vRiN.png)
Gotcha, you little pìjīngshén. I've had enough of you.
(https://i.imgur.com/wRDDeC8.png)
...huh. I don't mind, but there's no way salt should kill an ordinary feral spirit. They're slightly pestilent, but it's not like they're undead or anything. When you get right down to it, they're basically natural.
(https://i.imgur.com/Z4hj4U9.png)
I take it all back! There's nothing natural about this. Are those teeth?
It's completely desiccated.
| 1. | > Poke around to see if there are any signs as to what might be up here. |
| 2. | > Naaah, that's pretty normal. Nothing to see here, let's go. |
| 3. | > That's definitely weird, but now's not the time to investigate. |
| 4. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: KitRougard on February 09, 2019, 01:13:37 pm
...I would say investigate right now but I'm paranoid that bite could be toxic.
To the hospital!
Post by: Egan_BW on February 09, 2019, 01:37:05 pm
Post by: mightymushroom on February 09, 2019, 01:38:29 pm
Anyway if we don't investigate while the scene is fresh we'll lose evidence. I'm not feeling nauseous or dizzy, how about you, Mel?
If the rat wasn't natural, there's a strong chance it was artificial. And if the rat was following us, somebody will want to know the results.
Look around. (Also listen.) Don't forget to check upwards for cameras or magical equivalents.
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on February 10, 2019, 06:39:32 am
Does the hospital have a suitable anti-toxin for totally-unnatural-probably-undead rat bites?+1
Anyway if we don't investigate while the scene is fresh we'll lose evidence. I'm not feeling nauseous or dizzy, how about you, Mel?
If the rat wasn't natural, there's a strong chance it was artificial. And if the rat was following us, somebody will want to know the results.
Look around. (Also listen.) Don't forget to check upwards for cameras or magical equivalents.Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Doomblade187 on February 12, 2019, 05:16:26 pm
+1Does the hospital have a suitable anti-toxin for totally-unnatural-probably-undead rat bites?+1
Anyway if we don't investigate while the scene is fresh we'll lose evidence. I'm not feeling nauseous or dizzy, how about you, Mel?
If the rat wasn't natural, there's a strong chance it was artificial. And if the rat was following us, somebody will want to know the results.
Look around. (Also listen.) Don't forget to check upwards for cameras or magical equivalents.Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Arx on February 17, 2019, 01:44:57 pm
Huh. Oh well, yoink the effigy and move on.
+1Does the hospital have a suitable anti-toxin for totally-unnatural-probably-undead rat bites?+1
Anyway if we don't investigate while the scene is fresh we'll lose evidence. I'm not feeling nauseous or dizzy, how about you, Mel?
If the rat wasn't natural, there's a strong chance it was artificial. And if the rat was following us, somebody will want to know the results.
Look around. (Also listen.) Don't forget to check upwards for cameras or magical equivalents.
It probably wasn't undead. Didn't look decayed or anything, just... wrong. Also it was definitely still warm. I think the effigy looks like it does to reflect that... wrongness.
I doubt the bite was specifically venomous. I'm probably going to need to visit the hospital for a checkup, though. Might need a couple of stitches, but I heal super fast.
I have a strong constitution, I'm sure I can tank this injury for a while. I have to bind it, but after that I'll limp around a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/l1VlDCP.png)
I'm pretty sure the rat came from around the area of this empty lot. The rubbish tends to attract scavengers. Maybe there'll be something, maybe not.
(https://i.imgur.com/o1ndIMm.png)
...huh. Well, that's something, alright.
(https://i.imgur.com/evAtwo1.png)
Yup. Sure is a thing.
I think that's some kind of warped dream catcher. I'd stake money that this is related to the rat. How exactly I'm not sure, but... this is definitely wrong in all the same ways. It makes my skin crawl.
I can't do much in my current state. The adrenaline's gone down and another bite like this would put me on my knees, probably. I do have a lighter in my pocket, though.
| 1. | > Burn it. It's not safe to leave this here. |
| 2. | > Leave it, and report it to the Council. They can handle it. |
| 3. | > Leave it, get the bite treated, and come back to watch and see if anyone checks it. |
| 4. | > _ |
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Doomblade187 on February 17, 2019, 01:57:29 pm
Post by: Egan_BW on February 17, 2019, 02:05:54 pm
Report it and leave.
Post by: mightymushroom on February 17, 2019, 02:51:04 pm
Snap a picture, share to the council's instagram or whatever,(!) and burn it.(?)
Who knows how it might react.Well, I don't know per se, but fire is very natural. Good for cleansing, since it literally transforms the molecules of the thing into new substances. Or am I making that up?
Edit: On the other hand, there might be a risk of arrest for arson if we start fires in rubbish lots. Does the Council provide legal defense for its 'contractors'?
Post by: Kashyyk on February 17, 2019, 03:04:59 pm
Snap a picture, share to the council's instagram or whatever, and burn it.This
Post by: King Zultan on February 18, 2019, 05:50:56 am
Post by: Rockeater on February 18, 2019, 06:56:36 am
Burn it to the ground,+1you know what burn everything else as well.
Post by: Puppyguard on February 20, 2019, 03:23:07 pm
Agreed. +1.Snap a picture, share to the council's instagram or whatever, and burn it.This
Post by: Enemy post on February 20, 2019, 04:55:51 pm
Post by: KitRougard on March 03, 2019, 12:14:50 pm
Post by: Arx on June 10, 2019, 04:35:32 am
*electric mental cattle prod*
You thought it was dead...
(https://i.imgur.com/YJxKAEX.png)
But it was me, Liu!
So it turns out I don't have the energy to run this during normal varsity terms, surprise surprise. I even drew half an update traditionally from the office, but it's really hard to motivate myself.
Part of that is because I feel like I just had everything running really poorly and everything felt very stilted, in response to which I'm thinking about a bit of a shift to make the game easier to run, and to play! When I started out I was aiming for a sort of weird Pact/noir/I-don't-even-know thing, but it just didn't fit together as smoothly as I hoped.
What I was thinking of as an option instead would be much less secrecy, which'd be much less awkwardness between jobs, and much less... general weirdness with Mel's kit. The shift would hopefully make the game less stilted, easier to make decisions in, and generally more fun for all concerned. A little less Dishonoured, a little more Witcher-y, less time touching on admin, more time working on jobs.
Thoughts? Am I barking up the wrong tree? Was it perfect the way it was?
Post by: Egan_BW on June 10, 2019, 05:12:12 am
I also don't really feel that less secrecy would make anything particularly better, just different. And it would be a disruptive thing to change while the game's already running. May as well put this to rest and start something entirely new, IMO.
Post by: King Zultan on June 10, 2019, 05:38:18 am
Post by: KitRougard on June 10, 2019, 08:45:25 am
In other news: I DONT CARE ABOUT ANYTHING OTHER THAN IT COMING BACK BABY!
Post by: Kashyyk on June 10, 2019, 05:09:27 pm
Although as Egan said, the biggest sink is probably the art, which isn't really going to be affected by a game style change.
Post by: Arx on June 13, 2019, 12:36:24 pm
Report it and leave.Burn it to the ground,+1you know what burn everything else as well.
Agreed. +1.Snap a picture, share to the council's instagram or whatever, and burn it.This
Take a picture and burn it.
I should document this somehow. Hopefully a photo's good enough.
... #occult #nofilter #abomination #twistedcrimeagainstgodandnature
Also, get rid of this... water? I hope it's water.
(https://i.imgur.com/7BKJcK3.png)
Why get rid of the water, though Mel? Well, water doesn't burn very well.
There's always paper litter around. A pile of newspapers, a bit of brute force to re-arrange the... gallows, thing, and there we go.
(https://i.imgur.com/N6D6Tc0.png)
BONFIRE LIT
I'm not sure why I just thought that. I guess I was hoping for something more dramatic than just a regular trash fire. You know, like explosions or green flames or something. Anyway, this is very cheery, but also almost certainly illegal, so I think I should be going now.
I guess I'll go spin the hospital a yarn about being bitten by a crazed dog and hope no-one notices that the bite marks don't quite match up.
While I do that, I should think about how I plan to herd the wind spirit out of the library. I know they don't like strongly earth-associated things. I wonder if I can make something that won't cause too much mess...
Spoiler: Meta (click to show/hide)
Post by: Kashyyk on June 13, 2019, 12:54:47 pm
Is there anything they particularly like? Maybe we could leave a jar of dirt at the back of the library and some sort of treat or just outside the front door.
Post by: AzyWng on June 13, 2019, 06:27:43 pm
Post by: TheRedwolf on June 13, 2019, 10:38:23 pm
Post by: King Zultan on June 14, 2019, 06:08:33 am
Post by: mightymushroom on June 14, 2019, 08:11:43 am
Is there anything they particularly like? Maybe we could leave a jar of dirt at the back of the library and some sort of treat or just outside the front door.
They're attracted to drafts and other wind.
According to our map, behind the library is mostly concrete but there's a garden area in front. So I'm thinking it will be much easier to shoo the geist out a front window or even the front door. Hey, maybe all we really need to do is get a couple of doorstops to hold the path open and it'll find its own way out. Although we should probably bring some sort of 'herding' equipment to speed things up.
Do we know any magical spells or chanting that might make it uneasy? Like if it thought we were trying to do a binding? (Never mind how unsuccessful since we didn't actually trap it first.) Might be easier and less clean up than throwing dirt all over the library.
The only other thing I've got is something crazy like line our clothes with aluminum foil so that we become a walking metal monster in the eyes of a wind spirit.
(Also don't forget to refill our salt pouch.)
Post by: Egan_BW on June 14, 2019, 08:47:07 am
Post by: mightymushroom on June 14, 2019, 12:49:47 pm
Edit: In case my plan isn't clear, it would be something like we blow on one pinwheel to demonstrate and hold out the other to entice the geist. Once we have it playing the game, gently lead it out the door. Problem solved!
Post by: Arx on June 22, 2019, 06:38:18 am
What if we got a couple of cheap pinwheels from the party store and lured it out with something wind-y instead of chasing it with earth?
Hey, maybe all we really need to do is get a couple of doorstops to hold the path open and it'll find its own way out. Although we should probably bring some sort of 'herding' equipment to speed things up.
Are pieces of metal or rocks strongly-earth associated things? If so, we might be able to use those instead. Less messy than lines of dirt, just put small rows of pebbles instead.
Is there anything they particularly like? Maybe we could leave a jar of dirt at the back of the library and some sort of treat or just outside the front door.
Let's call this Plan A, and if that fails, go on to...
Get some work clothes extremely muddy, wear them, and shoo the spirit out the front door.
Just throw some dirt around then clean it after we're finished.
I imagine small piles/lines of dirt would fo the trick, but that's probably too messy so we'll call that plan B.
Plan B.
[Arts and Craf- nah, I'm not a toddler.
I think I have everything I need:
(https://i.imgur.com/plZB0dJ.jpg)
I should probably come up with a more concrete plan, though. I've got plenty of gravel to try and close off paths, I've got a pinwheel that mostly spins which I can put outside that hopefully draws the spirit, and I've got a fan to draw it along.
...then there's always the mud-monster with a gravel flail plan, if that doesn't work.
The 'geist is still hovering over around the top left corner of the library on this map. It can pass over the shelves pretty easily, but it can't go through solid objects. Also, if I can avoid disturbing the librarians working at the counters, that'd be great. I don't think they'll let me wander around willy-nilly scattering gravel.
(https://i.imgur.com/S2GWDMc.png)
Do we know any magical spells or chanting that might make it uneasy?
(Also don't forget to refill our salt pouch.)
I have all the magical talent of a three-days-dead fish. The best I could do is reciting poetry. I can refill my salt, though!
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Post by: King Zultan on June 22, 2019, 08:52:33 am
Post by: Kashyyk on June 22, 2019, 09:00:17 am
Post by: mightymushroom on June 22, 2019, 11:07:42 am
After that, it's experiment time. Waving the hand fan about might look a bit odd but seems least likely to cause a complaint. If we wave it at the geist, does it try to follow where we point the breeze or does it try to blow wind back against us? In the first case we can try to lead it out the window by pointing our breeze in that direction; in the latter case we would have to point away from the window and back up (I see this ending with us throwing the fan out the window for it to chase). Both ways I like the idea of leaving the pinwheel outside in the space marked garden as extra enticement to go out the window. Try to hug the far left wall, away from the librarians.
As far as Plan B stuff we can try (quietly) leaving a line of rocks down the middle left aisle, right along the ends of the shelves and also put some rocks atop the shelf ends, to encourage the geist to keep to the far left. I don't know if we can pull it off surreptitiously, however. Depends on how many other people are about.
Lets see if we can get it to follow us using just the pinwheel, if that doesn't work do one of the other things.
You know what, if it does want to follow / play with the pinwheel, that's probably easier than the whole thing I cooked up. We could either lead it to the window and try the "fetch" thing, or even walk it right out the front door. People might give us a glance or two but we'd be leaving anyway.
Post by: Arx on July 01, 2019, 01:31:32 pm
Lets see if we can get it to follow us using just the pinwheel, if that doesn't work do one of the other things.
So it looks like the far window on the bottom left of the map would be the easiest to lead/shoo out the wind spirit without being in sight of the counter. If we can, open that window.
You know what, if it does want to follow / play with the pinwheel, that's probably easier than the whole thing I cooked up. We could either lead it to the window and try the "fetch" thing, or even walk it right out the front door. People might give us a glance or two but we'd be leaving anyway.
Do those markings on the outer walls represent windows? If so we might be able to open them up and shoo it out somehow.
Well, time to take the pinwheel for a spin.
It's Magic, I Ain't Gotta Explain 屁 Roll: 4 [Success]
(https://i.imgur.com/KIKrYB5.jpg)
...well, that was easier than expected. Now I just take my wildly spinning pinwheel to a window and let it out, right? Without anyone asking weird questions.
(https://i.imgur.com/vJW5GDh.jpg)
Hmm. This is not as convenient as I'd hoped. It looks like a simple self-locking latch, though, so I can probably just jimmy it...
Deftness: 2 + 0 [Failure]
(https://i.imgur.com/kp2KGbB.jpg)
Uhhh. So the pinwheel is on the floor, the spirit is wondering why it won't spin any more, the window is still thoroughly locked, and that was pretty loud.
| 1. | > Quickly grab the pinwheel off the floor and hope the spirit doesn't freak out! Then go for the door. |
| 2. | > Play it cool. Pick up the pinwheel and move away, act like nothing happened. Try again in a minute. |
| 3. | > _ |
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Post by: Kashyyk on July 01, 2019, 02:18:56 pm
Anyway, I think we should go with number 1) Quickly grab the pinwheel off the floor and hope the spirit doesn't freak out! Then go for the door.
Post by: mightymushroom on July 01, 2019, 06:37:25 pm
Might want to move back among the shelves and circle around casually toward the door rather than just bolting for freedom. (but don't try the window again)
Without anyone asking weird questions.
Who would ask questions? Either it's battery powered or they're crazy. Just be cool, Mel, nobody's gonna freak out unless you start freaking out.
Post by: Egan_BW on July 01, 2019, 07:19:19 pm
On the other hand, running in a library is probably frowned upon regardless.
Pick it up, quickly but not urgently, and walk out the front door at a brisk and even pace while waving the pinwheel playfully.
Sure, we will look like a crazy person, but if we don't make trouble for anyone looking like a crazy person isn't too terrible or uncommon.
Post by: King Zultan on July 02, 2019, 10:19:40 am
If we're running and holding a spinning pinwheel, it doesn't look strange because of course the pinwheel spinning is the natural result of us running.+1
On the other hand, running in a library is probably frowned upon regardless.
Pick it up, quickly but not urgently, and walk out the front door at a brisk and even pace while waving the pinwheel playfully.
Sure, we will look like a crazy person, but if we don't make trouble for anyone looking like a crazy person isn't too terrible or uncommon.
Post by: Doomblade187 on July 07, 2019, 11:20:39 am
+1If we're running and holding a spinning pinwheel, it doesn't look strange because of course the pinwheel spinning is the natural result of us running.+1
On the other hand, running in a library is probably frowned upon regardless.
Pick it up, quickly but not urgently, and walk out the front door at a brisk and even pace while waving the pinwheel playfully.
Sure, we will look like a crazy person, but if we don't make trouble for anyone looking like a crazy person isn't too terrible or uncommon.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on October 17, 2019, 09:21:46 am
+1+1If we're running and holding a spinning pinwheel, it doesn't look strange because of course the pinwheel spinning is the natural result of us running.+1
On the other hand, running in a library is probably frowned upon regardless.
Pick it up, quickly but not urgently, and walk out the front door at a brisk and even pace while waving the pinwheel playfully.
Sure, we will look like a crazy person, but if we don't make trouble for anyone looking like a crazy person isn't too terrible or uncommon.
Post by: Arx on October 18, 2019, 02:29:47 pm
+1+1Pick it up, quickly but not urgently, and walk out the front door at a brisk and even pace while waving the pinwheel playfully.+1
[I hope this works: 2]
(https://i.imgur.com/3oqJktx.jpg)
...well, darn. That didn't work the way I wanted it to. Now the spirit's slamming its head against the window like an oversized, underweight fly.
>_
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Post by: Naturegirl1999 on October 18, 2019, 02:32:35 pm
Post by: Kashyyk on October 18, 2019, 02:48:55 pm
I concur with Naturegirl, let's open the window. Quickly. The librarian will probably be annoyed with us regardless, so let's at least finish the job.
Post by: Doomblade187 on October 18, 2019, 03:27:31 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on October 18, 2019, 04:30:20 pm
Open the window, follow the spirit. See what it's after.+1
Post by: King Zultan on October 19, 2019, 02:08:12 am
+1Open the window, follow the spirit. See what it's after.+1
Post by: Arx on October 19, 2019, 03:51:37 am
+1Open the window, follow the spirit. See what it's after.+1
The window is locked!
Flashback Scene!
(https://i.imgur.com/HtqZKAE.jpg)
And I couldn't jimmy the lock. I could try again I suppose.
Post by: King Zultan on October 19, 2019, 04:30:15 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on October 19, 2019, 09:01:36 am
Lets try to jimmy the lock again.+1
Post by: Rockeater on October 20, 2019, 02:56:31 pm
+1Lets try to jimmy the lock again.+1
Post by: Egan_BW on October 20, 2019, 03:03:06 pm
I can't quite tell what's going on here, can we just go out the door? Do that maybe.
Post by: Doomblade187 on October 20, 2019, 04:30:26 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on October 20, 2019, 04:36:27 pm
Go outside, meet the spirit with the pinwheel.+1
Post by: King Zultan on October 21, 2019, 01:39:22 am
+1Go outside, meet the spirit with the pinwheel.+1
Post by: Arx on October 21, 2019, 06:39:24 am
I can't quite tell what's going on here
State of play!
(https://i.imgur.com/VUfLd2K.png)
The spirit is still stuck inside, bashing its head against the window. It can't pass through solid objects! I could go around there, but I don't think it'll help.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on October 21, 2019, 07:37:00 am
Post by: mightymushroom on October 21, 2019, 08:59:41 am
Open the window, failing that, break the window-11 No, no, no we can't break the window! The very last thing we want is to be caught vandalizing the library.
The geist is upset and wants out badly. Our mission from the Council is to get rid of it; our self-imposed mission is to herd it outside instead of walloping it with magic. In either case we have to do our best to maintain magical secrecy.
The good news is that despite the loud noise we made earlier it doesn't seem like anyone is coming to investigate. The bad news is that I'm not sure how to lead the geist away from the window on the path to the door. I'm afraid that the 'chasing' options with stones and such would only put it into a greater frenzy. I almost want to say show it our map.
It can't pass through solid objects! I could go around there, but I don't think it'll help.Heh, maybe that's not too bad an idea, Mei. If we could physically demonstrate to the geist that we know how to get in and out safely, perhaps it would pay attention and follow. We might need to calm it down, talk smoothly and softly like with the baby wind that it is. Once it's quieter, then kind of point toward the door and then walk around. Show up on the outside of the window, wave and say hi, point back toward the door. Go back inside. I know it doesn't understand words but maybe with a few repetitions it will catch on that there is a secret passage of sorts.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on October 21, 2019, 09:22:41 am
+1Open the window, failing that, break the window-11 No, no, no we can't break the window! The very last thing we want is to be caught vandalizing the library.
The geist is upset and wants out badly. Our mission from the Council is to get rid of it; our self-imposed mission is to herd it outside instead of walloping it with magic. In either case we have to do our best to maintain magical secrecy.
The good news is that despite the loud noise we made earlier it doesn't seem like anyone is coming to investigate. The bad news is that I'm not sure how to lead the geist away from the window on the path to the door. I'm afraid that the 'chasing' options with stones and such would only put it into a greater frenzy. I almost want to say show it our map.It can't pass through solid objects! I could go around there, but I don't think it'll help.Heh, maybe that's not too bad an idea, Mei. If we could physically demonstrate to the geist that we know how to get in and out safely, perhaps it would pay attention and follow. We might need to calm it down, talk smoothly and softly like with the baby wind that it is. Once it's quieter, then kind of point toward the door and then walk around. Show up on the outside of the window, wave and say hi, point back toward the door. Go back inside. I know it doesn't understand words but maybe with a few repetitions it will catch on that there is a secret passage of sorts.
Post by: Egan_BW on October 21, 2019, 11:33:10 am
Post by: King Zultan on October 22, 2019, 12:19:02 am
Post by: Arx on October 22, 2019, 02:38:03 pm
The good news is that despite the loud noise we made earlier it doesn't seem like anyone is coming to investigate.
[Wait, has no-one really noticed me? : 5
(https://i.imgur.com/ZFKqlQo.jpg)
[I hope this works: 1
Uh. I'm here. The spirit's still in there. This doesn't seem to have done me much good. But I am super lucky no-one noticed me! Slow day in the library today.
>_
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Post by: King Zultan on October 23, 2019, 01:49:57 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on October 23, 2019, 07:01:02 am
Try to get the spirit to go to our pinwheel again.+1 and carry the pinwheel outside with us
Post by: Doomblade187 on November 10, 2019, 09:53:53 am
I support thisTry to get the spirit to go to our pinwheel again.+1 and carry the pinwheel outside with us