1/2 Tanna 2024/09/30(Mon)08:02 No. 1098034 ID: 3ff94b
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>You're going to have to rely on your hearing and that sniffer of yours Tanna.
>Remember slinky, Focus on hearing.
>Close your eyes. It'll help your body adjust to using your other senses. You can hear him, you can smell him

Tanna Sybilant’s Turn

Darkness. Something about it is so… calming. I close my eyes and listen. I can hear the crackle of the fire. The soft breaths of those behind me. I can smell the burning oil, the general directions of where people are.

>You can detect his presence in the weave. Pay attention to this.

You’re right. It’s faint, but I can sort of… sense Roderick. I can sense everyone. The subtle pressure of the Weave melding around them. I’d much rather be able to see them, but I won’t turn this away either.

>We also have the mystery bomb. Smoke or boom, may be worth drawing, lighting with prestidigitation fire spark and hurling it rolling it towards roddies last known location.
>Using the bomb sounds like a good idea; we don't know what it does but it must be offensive in some way. If it's a smoke bomb then it will at least blind Roderick too which will mean you're on equal footing.

Excuse me?

Oh yeah. I do have a bomb. Good idea!

Tanna’s Standard Action & Swift Action

Pulling out the bomb, I’d play a quick melody on my harmonica and light it with Prestidigitation.

“What’s going on? You casting a spell, Tanna?” Mina asks from behind me.

“I’m lighting a bomb!”

I hear the faintest of snickers from Evel’yee, followed by a loud exclamation from Mina. “WHAT?!”

I throw the bomb in the general direction where I last saw Roderick. The hiss of the fuse dissipates as it rolls away from me.

>To Roderick:
>Fool who doesn't know friend from foe. You resisted for so long the intrusive thoughts demanding to kill someone you care for and trust but never questioned if those were really coming from your own mind. Never asked yourself if someone else was talking inside your head.
>How did you know to conjure darkness? Why were you so certain you wouldn't break your sword when you slammed it down? Does this sound like your own actions? Something you would do if no one else told you to? This voice you confuse with your own thoughts is deceiving you. He doesn't want the box open, if he did he wouldn't have made you to waste time in this room with no answers. What he want is to make you kill each other. To reduce the amount of people working together to get the box open, to isolate you from the outside world that could lead you to answers, to prevent you from meeting someone like us who can open it. All your recent mistakes were because of him. You know the only hope you have to open this box in in front of you. If you don't resist this manipulator this chance will escape your grasp and you will be alone to be toyed with.

“I-I am in cont- AGH!” Roderick begins to confusedly say before a loud pop rings out within the chamber.

FLASH POWDER BOMB

>TANNA’S STRENGTH SAVE VS. DEAFNESS: 7(2[Strength] + 2[Roll] + 2[Proximity] + 1[Shadow Strength]) > 8[DC] = FAILURE, DEAFENED FOR 1 ROUND

>EVEL’YEE’S STRENGTH SAVE VS. DEAFNESS: 12(2[Strength] + 8[Roll] + 4[Proximity] - 2[Enhanced Hearing]) > 8[DC] = SUCCESS

>MINA’S STRENGTH SAVE VS. DEAFNESS: 14(2[Strength] + 8[Roll] + 4[Proximity]) > 8[DC] = SUCCESS

>RODERICK’S STRENGTH SAVE VS. DEAFNESS: 7(4[Strength] + 5[Roll] - 1[Proximity] - 2[Effective Intrusive Thoughts] + 1[Shadow Strength]) > 8[DC] = FAILURE, DEAFENED FOR 1 ROUNDS

>RODERICK’S STRENGTH SAVE VS. BLINDNESS: 3(4[Strength] + 2[Roll] - 1[Proximity] - 1[Shadow Sight] - 2[Effective Intrusive Thoughts] + 1[Shadow Strength]) > 8[DC] = FAILURE, BLINDED FOR 3 ROUNDS

2/2 Tanna 2024/09/30(Mon)08:02 No. 1098035 ID: 3ff94b
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A dynamic action has occurred. Tanna receives another intermission.

MY EARS!! Ow! Agh! I can’t hear anything! W-Winds?!

Tanna currently only has a move action left. Tanna will be able to hear again at the start of ROUND 3. Previous messages that are applicable will be sent if they fit the general consensus of decided action.

>(also I just checked and Protection from Evil can only be cast on a willing target, so it won't work to win this fight...)

Roderick would receive a save for being an unwilling target, but you could theoretically have Mina cast it upon him.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ddQBe4rbaabuj_iRA-ig6LbSgBUWltFjToTDtGsmoqc/edit?usp=sharing

>>1098035
Nice! Roderick is deaf and blind. Deaf for a short period, as long as you'll be deafened, but that blindness will last for a bit. We'll tell you when it's about to wear off.
You have enough time to reposition behind him, probably, before the deafness wears off. He won't be able to tell you moved!

>>1098036
(well, it requires touch too, so it's risky! maybe once we disable him...)

Normally both of you having your senses deprived for the same amount of time would make it safe to move closer, but unfortunately Bakoth can hear our conversation and guide Roderick based on that. It probable won't be a precise attack, but if you are unlucky it will be difficult to defend against. Maybe he even have another way to perceive the environment.

Waiting by the door now seem like a more sensible course of action than it was a moment earlier. It should help prevent attacks from unexpected directions and impede Roderick from running pass all of you out of this room (not that I expect him to do so). The problem with this plan is that allow him to move freely while we wait, so it will waste time.

Approaching him is still an option, just not as good as I originally wanted to. You could move three to five steps in a diagonal direction in relation to him. Try not to think verbally if it's left or right, but if you can't avoid or Bakoth provoke you into thinking it, don't worry, because he still won't know the angle you will choose just by that. You can even talk to your allies so they know where you are and that you can't hear them because Roderick won't hear you either.

To Mina and Evel’yee:
Try to stay close.

To Roderick:
Are you really in control? Do you think you would commit this many mistakes? You are not that stupid. Are you so eager to take responsibility of all those irrational decisions? They were never mistakes! Those weren't decision made by ignorance, they were done by malice. This creature doesn't share your goals.
What he want above all else have nothing to do with the box. How many times you had to deny his demands to kill Mina? He want her dead, you don't. You twisted his words into wishing for her to run away, but you know the nagging thoughts were never for distance but for murder.
He fear the priestess and she in turn never knew where your hostility was coming from. How much of her confusion was twisted into antagonism inside your head? Twisted by him!

Oh fuck blinded and deafened?

OK OK this means you can cast a spell without being located by your music. Which would be really helpful if you had any spells left. Fuck.

Shout to Mina that this was the only way to get him blinded too. Wait you're deafened never mind fuckfuckfuck...

If you're going to move, you remember where the grease was, right?

>>1098035
We dont talk to your ears slinky.
I think.
You need to carefully move back and give evee a clear shot.
Slow pace. Compensate for party members.

Roderick got the worst of that blast.
He'll be vulnerable a little longer than you.
One of the winds is running interferance and whispering in his ear.
Adding to the confusion.
Quite effectively too.

Youre doing well tanna.

Hm.
I wonder...

To Roderick:
Are you really in control? Do you think you would commit this many mistakes? You are not that stupid. Are you so eager to take responsibility of all those irrational decisions? They were never mistakes! Those weren't decision made by ignorance, they were done by malice. This creature doesn't share your goals.

Lets see if a chorus of more voices drive it home harder...

1/4 Tanna 2024/10/04(Fri)17:54 No. 1098237 ID: a4785e
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You threw a fucking bomb underground and you didn’t even know what it did?!

I’d do it again!

>Oh fuck blinded and deafened?

Yeah! Believe me, it sucks!

>We dont talk to your ears slinky. I think.

Thankfully! Although, eaugh… this is so disorienting. My ears are ringing so bad, but I can sort of hear a bit of muffled sounds happening around me. Hopefully this isn’t permanent…

>Nice! Roderick is deaf and blind. Deaf for a short period, as long as you'll be deafened, but that blindness will last for a bit.
>Roderick got the worst of that blast. He'll be vulnerable a little longer than you.

H-how do you know that? I mean I believe you, but…

>Roderick's not his toy, and you're going to save him from this child's temper tantrum.

He is my toy, my puppet. All of them were, just as Tanna is yours. Trying to highroad me while pretending to be different persons, cousin? What an utter joke.

The Winds aren’t like you, bastard. They don’t whisper lies and try to control me, they simply offer advice.

They aren’t a separate entity… are you honestly this damaged? My cousin is MANIPULATING you. The ‘Winds’ are them! They’re likely responsible for your memory loss in the first place!

>calling out mister smarty voice for being a light-loving simp. Hates the darkness so much, but can't swim in it himself?

You call me childish while calling me a light-loving simp? Do I even need to explain how idiotic that is?! Where did you even pick a word like that up, it’s certainly not from around here!

(What’s a simp?)

Hah, okay cousin. Fine, you wanna know something, ‘Tanna’?

Maybe a name will help jog your memory, make you realize how stupid you’re being and break you free, eh? I’ll give you this one for free, O██████.

No. Do not attempt that again.

?! Wha-what?!

I don’t need whatever poisoned gift you're willing to offer me! Take my old name and choke on it!

>You have enough time to reposition behind him, probably, before the deafness wears off. He won't be able to tell you moved!
>Waiting by the door now seem like a more sensible course of action than it was a moment earlier. The problem with this plan is that allow him to move freely while we wait, so it will waste time.

He’s injured and disabled, we should press the advantage. Giving him time to recover while this darkness is up is asking for trouble.

>Roderick was given a Fatal Wound. Yet he's not downed? Shouldn't take much more damage.

...My toy’s more durable than you think.

Getting scared?

What have you embroiled yourself in this time…

?

2/4 Tanna 2024/10/04(Fri)17:54 No. 1098238 ID: a4785e
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>Shout to Mina that this was the only way to get him blinded too
>You can even talk to your allies so they know where you are and that you can't hear them because Roderick won't hear you either.
>Approaching him is still an option. Try not to think verbally if it's left or right, but if you can't avoid or Bakoth provoke you into thinking it, don't worry, because he still won't know the angle you will choose just by that.

You’re right! I can still talk to Mina and Evel’yee, and I think you would’ve told me if they got deafened as well. They can help guide me too, Evel’yee’s protected from his intrusions and he doesn’t want to touch Mina it seems...

“Mina, Evel’yee, I can’t hear, but we need to close the distance and press the advantage! The bomb’s messed him up, I definitely knew it’d blind him!”

Tanna’s Move Action

I ‘hear’ more muffled sounds, it’s hard to tell where they’re coming from. Gods, my ears hurt. I’ll prepare to move with someone, assuming they do as I ask.

>If you're going to move, you remember where the grease was, right?

Yeah, I have a general idea, something like twenty feet to thirty feet in front of me? As long as we don’t rush forward, I’ll stop Mina if that’s the case.

Mina Haliasong’s Turn

Mina’s Standard, Move, & Swift Action

>To Mina:
>Try to stay close.

I can barely see Mina approach me from behind, her hand brushes against mine and she begins to lead me forwards.

I’m not thinking about where I’m going forward, I’m not thinking about it! Just take me forward where you think best, Mina! Along the way, she swaps to my right side. I start trailing against a wal- fuck!

Along the wall, are you?

Fuck! We’re definitely approaching though. Roderick’s smell is getting stronger, so is the burning oil. That… weird feeling too, the one where I can feel their ‘Weave’. It’s fuzzy, but Roderick is close. We’re next to th- don’t think about it! Shh, brain!

>To Mina:
>Sorry babe, not the goddess you had in mind. But she said "hi" earlier today. I think we will come of a little more jumble to you than to Tanna. I'm sure you can figure it out. I didn't want to get you in danger but on the bright side you can use your touch spells. Protection from Evil is confirmed to work on Bakoth (that's the entity who want you dead), but Roderick think the words from this thing are his own thoughts so using it will likely not be enough to convince him to stop attacking. I wouldn't recommend it.

I can’t hear Mina, but it looks like she’s calling out backwards to Evel’yee? She’ll pat me on the shoulder and point forwards, mouthing the word Roderick. She also rolls her eyes, probably the ‘babe’ comment. Get used to it, Mina, haha.

Tanna’s Grease burns out.

This image was drawn by another artist that wished to remain anonymous.

3/4 Tanna 2024/10/04(Fri)18:12 No. 1098242 ID: 147667
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Roderick Volhalsin’s Turn

>To Roderick:
>Are you really in control? Do you think you would commit this many mistakes? You are not that stupid. Are you so eager to take responsibility of all those irrational decisions? They were never mistakes! Those weren't decision made by ignorance, they were done by malice. This creature doesn't share your goals. What he want above all else have nothing to do with the box. How many times you had to deny his demands to kill Mina? He want her dead, you don't. You twisted his words into wishing for her to run away, but you know the nagging thoughts were never for distance but for murder. He fear the priestess and she in turn never knew where your hostility was coming from. How much of her confusion was twisted into antagonism inside your head? Twisted by him!

>To Roderick:
>Are you really in control? Do you think you would commit this many mistakes? You are not that stupid. Are you so eager to take responsibility of all those irrational decisions? They were never mistakes! Those weren't decision made by ignorance, they were done by malice. This creature doesn't share your goals.

Mina suddenly goes wide-eyed as she looks towards where I think Roderick is. I wish I could hear.

>DISRUPT BAKOTH’S CONTROL CHECK: 1d100(66) > 75(80[Base] - 5[Duplicate Message]) = FAILURE

Grr… you think you can take away control? You know how much I’ve drowned his thoughts in lies and hatred?

You see, my puppet hasn’t thought for themselves for quite a while. This goes beyond simple control, I’ve ruined him forever, a body fit only to serve me.

...You’re a gods-damned monster.

Thanks.

Roderick’s Swift & Standard Action

>SCENT-BASED PERCEPTION CHECK: 11(6[Roll] + 3[Mentality] + 1[Proximity] + 1[Shadow Strength]) > 10[DC] = SUCCESS

I can smell something sweet all of a sudden, it smells familiar… ah dammit. It’s a Potion of Cure Light Wounds, he’s healing himself!

Roderick’s Move Action

>SNEAKING CHECK AGAINST EVEL’YEE: 9(4[Roll] + 1[Dexterity] - 2[Full Plate] + 2[Darkness] + 1[Shadow Strength] + 3[Proximity]) > 11(6[Roll] + 3[Mentality] + 2[Enhanced Hearing]) = FAILURE

Ack! He’s really close, oh shit! D-don’t thin-

Oh, I’ll finish it for you. ‘Roderick takes a sniff and realizes that Tanna and Mina are actually right next to him. We’re all crowding around a brazier, and he’s going to brutally murder me soon!’. Just give me a second you annoying little shit, I’ll tear you apart soon enough.

He’s right next to me, Winds, yeah. It’s hard to make out his entire form, but he’s taking cover behind the brazier to make it harder for Evel’yee to shoot him I presume. That potion from earlier has healed some of his wounds.

Evel’yee Trèswillow’s Turn

Evel’yee’s Standard Action

>To Evel’yee:
>Don't be like that. Getting angry will only make me want to complement you more: That was an excellent shot! Congratulations. Cute and skilled! A small femme fatale. I would recommend that even you should get close to him to avoid unseen surprises. If you can't run and attack try to stay close to Tanna to avoid been targeted alone.

Wish I could see or hear how she reacted to that.

>EVEL’YEE’S ROLL VS. CONCEALMENT: 1d100(59) > 50 = SUCCESS

>EVEL’YEE’S ATTACK: 15(4[Dexterity] + 10[Roll] + 1[Combat Modifier] + 1[Size]) > 11(5[Base] + 4[Full Plate] + 2[Cover]) = SUCCESS

>EVEL’YEE’S DAMAGE: 1[Arrow] + 1[Strength] + 1[Archery Talent] = 3 PAIN

>Though I wonder how Evel’yee was able to land such a shot on Roderick like that. Is she not affected or just that good of a shot?

Are you fucking joking me?! Completely dark and I’m behind cover, and she still lands that?!

H-holy shit. Another arrow flies from the darkness and embeds very closely to Roderick’s neck. He tumbles backwards with an expression of twisted pain, grasping at the arrow. Whatever bravado he had earlier seems to be quickly disappearing. T-the darkness is affecting her, right?

Evel’yee’s Move Action

END ROUND 2

4/4 Tanna 2024/10/04(Fri)18:13 No. 1098243 ID: 7cc272
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ROUND 3:

Tanna is no longer Deafened.

Roderick is no longer Deafened.

Tanna Sybilant’s Intermission

The ringing in my ears is starting to die down... “M-Mina? I think I can hear again.”

“Oh? Good to hear, ‘babe’! The heck was up with that? And also with you throwing a bomb you ‘definitely knew’ would blind Roderick?!” She gives me a scolding look. “How did you even know it even blinded him?”

Roderick growls next to us… he still has his eyes shut, I think. “I uh… I just did! Where’s Evel’yee!?”

Mina will thumb over t- somewhere! Fuck you Bakoth!

Ho ho.

What’s the next move, Winds? After that last shot, he’s close. I think he’d probably be down already if he hadn’t drunk that potion! Being this close to him is sort of scary though…

>>1098237
"THE DREAD PLAY HAS YET TO BEGIN"

>>1098243
Tanna, focus on defense.

Roderick: Why are you wasting time fighting when you could be opening the box? Have you tried coating it in your blood then knocking five times on the top then flipping it over and knocking five times on the bottom?

No dumb risks this time, now the plan is to capture him after he lose consciousness. Hit him with your blade without hesitation.
The healing potion must have patched his fatal wound so the chances of him dyeing if you succeed will be much smaller. Not that it matter much: his death is a more acceptable result than yours.

To Mina:
Is it that upsetting? What can I say, Vax have good taste.
To answer you question: I don't know where this kind of information comes from. At first I though it was Tanna's inner monologue but she reacted with surprise when I asked for clarification earlier.
Now, If Tanan doesn't manage to make him faint I think it's time for Hideous Laughter.

To Evel’yee:
That was awesome! You are really good at this. Right on the shoulder! Who knew someone this adorable could be this dangerous?
By the way love: If you said something to me just now could you repeat it? I couldn't hear for a moment.
If Tana or Mina get him this will be the time for your magical bondage gear. I hope you are not set in vengeance because he is currently not in control of his thoughts so it's technically not his faut.

To Roderick:
Remember why you've came here. You lead your friends back to this place to decipher a treasure, not to kill them and rot alone in a dark room. Remember who you are.

Roderick, I know it seems like there's no hope, that you're too weary and afraid. He just told you everything he promised or suggested was a lie, and still you do his bidding. He never really showed you anyone who deserved your hatred, never protected you from those plotting against you, it was all a ruse to make you hate nothing at all. And you do, and I'm so sorry you have to go through this. You can't control yourself, you're scared and alone in there, but you are in there Roderick. Hold tight, and we'll throw you a sturdy branch to hang onto. And one way or another, this storm will pass.

Tanna, you can hear him, you know where he is, strike true and back away. He can best you in blades, and you're out of spells, so your agility is your best bet at this point. This is what God gave you whiskers for. Feel his sword displace the air and dodge!

>>1098243
Scary, yes, but what do you do when fear has your heart?
Same thing you did every other time here.
You dont hide from what you feel, but you dont let it change you either tanna.
Yeah, youre afraid.
Still gonna kick his ass AND save him.
You hear that evil wind?
Slinky is gonna ruin your day!

Oh, by the way.
We'll tell you what simp is later.
Gonna need two squirrels and a pair of leggings for the demonstration...

To roderick.
Hang on. For evelee. For mina. Were going to pull you out of this dark. It may hurt some but an old soldier like you can stand pain. Especially if its for your friends. Just hold on.

Tanna: Attempt to sneak behind him. Attempt to trip him with your sickle.
Evel’yee: Continue to shoot arrows.

1/4 Tanna 2024/10/11(Fri)14:35 No. 1098485 ID: 207077
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>Scary, yes, but what do you do when fear has your heart? Same thing you did every other time here. You dont hide from what you feel, but you dont let it change you either tanna. Yeah, youre afraid. Still gonna kick his ass AND save him.

How utterly pathetic. Words without meaning, action without merit. You will not be saving anyone this night.

They’ve kept me alive and helped me do good things. And we will keep Roderick alive!

>You hear that evil wind? Slinky is gonna ruin your day!

Please. Whatever ends up happening is hardly going to affect me. You came here looking for a certain object, haven’t you? A box perhaps? Ahaha…

Only because you’ve made me! And believe me, I’m dumping that piece of shit the moment I can!

I know I’ve a penchant for telling falsities, but I assure you, I’m not the one that put that compulsion upon you. I’ve only made my puppet and the others wish to open it. Knowing where yours comes from though is honestly hilarious.

What…?

Truthfully, this whole thing is all rather interesting. These ‘Winds’, perhaps they aren’t the manipulations I thought they were. Their dialogues seem rather varied, as if sometimes they even disagree with each other. What would be the point of that, just to sell the idea that they’re of different opinion to the victim? Perhaps… but still, I’ve never seen anything quite like it.

More vague bullshit! That’s all that ever comes out of your mouth/mind! What are you talking about?! Why do you keep alluding to all this as though you’ve seen it before?!

Haha, frustrating, isn’t it? A story is being crafted here, and the pathetic creature that is you is its main character. They’ve chosen to hide your memories, and for now I think for now I’ll play along. Hell, I’m half tempted to… ah, but where would the fun in that be?

Think you can beat me truly? I’ll kill you otherwise, Slinky.

That name isn’t for you to use…

>Tanna, focus on defense.
>No dumb risks this time, now the plan is to capture him after he lose consciousness. Hit him with your blade without hesitation.
>Tanna, you can hear him, you know where he is, strike true and back away. He can best you in blades, and you're out of spells, so your agility is your best bet at this point. This is what God gave you whiskers for. Feel his sword displace the air and dodge!
>Attempt to sneak behind him.

Sneak behind me? You know I can read your thoughts, yes?

Where exactly will I be behind you? Mhm?

Ah, a little bit of biteback. Touché.

Tanna’s Move Action

>SNEAKING CHECK AGAINST RODERICK: 8(5[Roll] + 4[Dexterity] + 2[Effective] + 1[Shadow Strength] - 4[Proximity]) > 7(4[Roll] + 3[Mentality] + 1[Scent] + 1[Shadow Strength] - 2[Blinded]) = SUCCESS

I slink somewhere behind Roderick, and raise my blade.

>To Roderick:
>Why are you wasting time fighting when you could be opening the box? Have you tried coating it in your blood then knocking five times on the top then flipping it over and knocking five times on the bottom?

“SILENCE!” Roderick snarls, thrashing in rage. Mina has to back up just to avoid his violent motions.

You’re damaging his mind, ‘Winds’. Just imagine how confused he must be, suddenly hearing voices in his head that aren’t his ‘own’!

Tanna’s Standard Action

We’ll save you from this, Roderick. I swing my blade down at Roderick’s cloaked arm.

>To Roderick:
>Remember why you've came here. You lead your friends back to this place to decipher a treasure, not to kill them and rot alone in a dark room. Remember who you are.
+
>Roderick, I know it seems like there's no hope, that you're too weary and afraid. He just told you everything he promised or suggested was a lie, and still you do his bidding. He never really showed you anyone who deserved your hatred, never protected you from those plotting against you, it was all a ruse to make you hate nothing at all. And you do, and I'm so sorry you have to go through this. You can't control yourself, you're scared and alone in there, but you are in there Roderick. Hold tight, and we'll throw you a sturdy branch to hang onto. And one way or another, this storm will pass.
+
>Hang on. For evelee. For mina. Were going to pull you out of this dark. It may hurt some but an old soldier like you can stand pain. Especially if its for your friends. Just hold on.
=
>Roderick, I know it seems like there’s no hope, that you’re too weary and afraid. You can’t control yourself, but we’re going to pull you out of this dark. It may hurt, but an old soldier like you can stand the pain. Remember why you lead them here. There was a treasure to decipher, it wasn’t to kill them and rot alone in a dark room. Remember who you are, remember your friends. Mina, Evel’yee, Vax, and Jacob. Just hold on, one way or another this storm will pass.

>DISRUPT BAKOTH’S CONTROL CHECK: 1d100(56) > 55(80[Base] - 25[Very Effective Message]) = FAILURE

“E-end this…” Roderick says through gritted teeth, leaning into my swing…

Y̴O̷U̷ ̸V̵I̴L̶E̴ ̶P̴I̶E̸C̷E̶ ̷O̷F̴ ̵T̴R̴A̴S̷H̸…̶ ̷Y̸O̷U̵ ̸A̵R̶E̴ ̷M̸I̵N̵E̴!̴

>TANNA’S ROLL VS. CONCEALMENT: 1d100(36) > 20[Close Darkness] = SUCCESS

>TANNA’S ATTACK: 6(4[Dexterity] + 3[Roll] + 2[Flanking] - 1[Intrusive Thoughts] - 2[Fighting Defensively]) > 5(5[Base] + 4[Full Plate] - 1[Intrusive Thoughts] - 3[Leans into Attack]) = SUCCESS

>TANNA’S DAMAGE: 2[Scimitar] + 1[Strength] = 3 PAIN & FATAL WOUND

I strike him soundly in his cloaked shoulder, my blade slicked with his blood. He lets out an agonized grunt as his body begins to fa-

Let’s add a little drama, shall we? What good antagonist would go down so easily?!

Huh… what is going on?

2/4 Tanna 2024/10/11(Fri)14:35 No. 1098486 ID: 207077
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R-Roderick’s body suddenly jerks upright… his head lolling to the side and his limbs snapping into place like some sort of macabre doll. His movements are horrifyingly unnatural as he sways back and forth, maintaining a hideous balance.

“R-Roderick…? P-please, just stop… whoever you are, I’m begging you…” I hear Mina’s quiet voice from the dark. This is awful…

Mina Haliasong’s Turn

“Whaa’s wroon, Meena?” The monster snickers with an evil grin at me before swinging his head to face Mina. “Is okaahy, yooh’ve shaved meh!”

>MINA’S SHAKEN CHECK: 7(3[Mentality] + 6[Roll] - 2[Friend]) > 9(5[Base] + 2[Fearful Darkness] + 2[Nightmare Creature]) = FAILURE

Mina has become Shaken*.

“Get out of his body you frea-hic-KING MONSTER!!” Mina growls at Roderick’s twisted body, hiccuping as she still refuses to curse.

>To Mina:
>Now, If Tanan doesn't manage to make him faint I think it's time for Hideous Laughter.

Mina’s Standard Action

“GAAHAHAH!”

“LEAVE HIM ALONE!!” She screams as she begins to cast a spell, I can’t see what she’s casting from where I’m at, but her hand thrusts out to try and touch Roderick!

>MINA’S ROLL VS. CONCEALMENT: 1d100(88) > 20[Close Darkness] = SUCCESS

>MINA’S TOUCH ATTACK: 5(3[Dexterity] + 2[Roll] + 2[Flanking] - 2[Shaken]) > 3(5[Base] - 2[Animated]) = HIT

>RODERICK’S SAVE AGAINST PROTECTION FROM EVIL (VIA BAKOTH): 7(3[Roderick’s Mentality] + 6[Roll] - 3[Mina’s Mentality] + 1[Shadow Strength]) > 5[DC] = SUCCESS

I can see the magic slam against Roderick in the dark as it’s violently repulsed away. “MY PUPPET! GYEHEEHEE!!” Another shrill laugh erupts from Roderick’s Bakoth-controlled body.

“The fucks going on?!” Evel’yee calls out from somewhere on my left.

This isn’t good! “Mina, get away from there! Move!”

Mina’s Movement & Swift Action

>MINA’S ROLL VS. CONCEALMENT: 1d100(79) > 20[Close Darkness] = SUCCESS

>MINA’S SKULLDUGGERY CHECK: 10(2[Strength] + 8[Roll] + 2[Flanking] - 2[Shaken]) > 9(5[Base] + 1[Dexterity] + 4[Strength] + 1[Shadow Strength] - 2[Animated]) = SUCCESS

Roderick has fallen prone

“GET OUT! GET OUT!!” Mina cries as she pushes Roderick to the floor. She’s not thinking straight!

*Shaken imposes a -2 penalty on attack rolls, saves, skill checks, and may cause characters to act irrationally.

3/4 Tanna 2024/10/11(Fri)14:36 No. 1098487 ID: 207077
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Roderick Volhalsin’s Turn

Roderick suffers 1 PAIN for having a Fatal Wound and being unconscious.

Roderick’s Swift Action

>RODERICK’S ROLL VS. CONCEALMENT: 1d100(59) > 50[Blinded] = SUCCESS

>RODERICK’S SKULLDUGGERY CHECK: 12(4[Strength] + 9[Roll] + 1[Shadow Strength] + 2[Effective] - 2[Prone] - 2[Animated]) > 10(5[Base] + 3[Dexterity] + 2[Strength]) = SUCCESS

“Agh!!” Roderick kicks out from beneath her, swiping her leg with his own and sending her tumbling to the floor next to him. She rolls over and tries to get up before Roderick’s gauntleted fist slams her back down.

Roderick’s Standard Action

“SCHLICEE! HAEHEAHA” He cackles as he brings his sword down upon her while they’re both writhing on the floor.

>RODERICK’S ROLL VS. CONCEALMENT: 1d100(90) > 50[Blinded] = SUCCESS

>RODERICK’S ATTACK: 10(4[Strength] + 8[Roll] + 1[Combat Modifier] + 1[Shadow Strength] - 2[Prone] - 2[Animated]) > 6(5[Base] + 3[Dexterity] - 2[Prone]) = SUCCESS

>RODERICK’S DAMAGE: 3[Greatsword] + 2[Strength] + 1[Two-Handed] - 1[Animated] = 5 PAIN & FATAL WOUND

I hear a sickeningly awful sounding tearing of flesh as Roderick drags the sword across Mina’s midsection. A terrible wound is left behind as Mina lets out a ghastly quiet scream, the sound caught in her throat as she arches her back in agony. “NO!!”

“Mina?! Tanna, talk to me!!” Evel’yee shouts with worry. M-Mina’s not moving!

“Wanna be da hero sho bad? Shave evaryawn? Won’t le’shoo…” It whispers with dark promise.

>TANNA’S SHAKEN CHECK: 5(3[Mentality] + 4[Roll] - 2[Story]) > 9(5[Base] + 2[Fearful Darkness] + 2[Nightmare Creature]) = FAILURE

Tanna has become Shaken*.

She’s going to die… hah… h-how many times… this story… no no NO NO!! IT NEVER CHANGES, WHY DOES EVERYONE ALWAYS DIE?!

Roderick’s Move Action

Roderick’s body contorts in an awful way as he’s forced to push himself up! “STAY DOWN!!”

>TANNA’S ROLL VS. CONCEALMENT: 1d100(83) > 20[Close Darkness] = SUCCESS

>TANNA’S ATTACK OF OPPORTUNITY: 9(4[Dexterity] + 8[Roll] + 1[Shadow Strength] - 2[Fighting Defensively] - 2[Shaken]) > 7(5[Base] + 4[Full Plate] - 2[Prone]) = SUCCESS

>TANNA’S DAMAGE: 2[Scimitar] + 1[Strength] = 3 PAIN

I hit him again, slashing him across the collarbone, but he just won’t fall! How is he still standing?!

Roderick drags his blade along the ground, trying to raise it over Mina’s body! “Taannnaaaa… ooohhh Taaannnaaaa…” He says eerily, blood dripping from his mouth, brutal wounds oozing away his life… he slams the point of his sword into the floor, just narrowly missing her!

“STOP IT!!”

Evel’yee Trèswillow’s Turn

“Gods dammit! Calm the fuck down, Tanna! Focus!” Evel’yee shouts at me… c-calm down? I… hah…f-fuck, I’m shaking all over… why does this always happen… why does everyone always die!!

>To Evel’yee:
>That was awesome! You are really good at this. Right on the shoulder! Who knew someone this adorable could be this dangerous?
+
>Continue to shoot arrows.
+
>I hope you are not set in vengeance because he is currently not in control of his thoughts so it's technically not his faut.
=
>That was awesome! You really are good at this. Who knew someone this adorable could be this dangerous! Keep in mind that he’s not in control of his thoughts, so it’s technically not his fault. Keep shooting him with arrows though!

“That’s right, keep praising me…”

>EVEL’YEES ROLL VS. CONCEALMENT: 1d100(23) > 50[Distanced Darkness] = FAILURE

An arrow wizzes by and strikes the wall next to us! N-no! No no no! “Mhm.”

Evel’yee’s Move and Swift Action

I see Evel’yee slip next to the two of us from the darkness, she has a dagger in her hand. “FUCK! Tanna?!” She notices my utter panic, the fear gripping my heart. Just as Roderick slams his sword down again, Evel’yee knocks it out of the way with her dagger!

>EVEL’YEE’S SHAKEN CHECK: 12(3[Mentality] + 9[Roll]) > 9(5[Base] + 2[Fearful Darkness] + 2[Nightmare Creature]) = SUCCESS

“ACT TANNA!! YOU HAVE TO END THIS NOW!”

END OF ROUND 3

4/4 Tanna 2024/10/11(Fri)14:38 No. 1098489 ID: e11d27
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ROUND 4:

Tanna Sybilant’s Intermission

T-The monster’s attention is all focused on Mina*… he raises his sword once more as he knocks Evel’yee away with a kick!

There’s no more time! I have to! I have to kill him now!

*Characters that reach a pain threshold equal to their maximum threshold plus 2 plus their Strength category plus their level die. For example, Mina will die at 9 pain. Characters who are unconscious when their turn begins and have a Fatal Wound suffer 1 pain.

Roderick has taken a total of 15 pain and has had one Potion of Cure Light Wounds.

>What do the winds suggest?

No time left. You have to risk killing him or Mina will die.
Climb up on top of him and slice the back of his neck all the way. While he's reeling from paralysis, Evel'yee needs to nab the potion before it gets shattered. If it does get shattered, feed whatever is left, glass shards if necessary, into Mina's wounds before she bleeds out.

Calm down. Don't argue with Bakoth, don't even entertain his words, just let them pass you. He will not change his mind no matter what argument you make so there is nothing to be gained with even trying. At worst we would be pointing out his mistakes and how to improve.

A little of rationalization may help understanding the situation.
Roderick lost conscience with a deep cut across his shoulder. This mean that the pain was too much to handle and his blood pressure is too weak to keep his brain active. Normally falling flat would recuperate some of the pressure inside the head, but by standing up he must be suffering brain damage with the lack of oxygen. His colar bone must be broken, so his right arm can't be lift, yet he used a free hand to hold Mina down.
It's likely that this motion have nothing to do with Roderick body capacity. He must be animated the same way a skeleton or an armor can be with magic despite the lack of muscles or even connected joins that make sense. At this point you probable could cut off his leg and the severed limb would still sustain him weight. It's so unnatural I wouldn't even assume he will stop when Roderick die.

So, what to do?
The Cause Fear scroll sound like a good way to gain time, unfortunately it's with Mina.

The second best thing I can think of is the Wevekil. He is clearly animated by magic and his heart is still pumping, so exposure should disrupt the process. You could coat your weapon with it, but with how many open wounds he have I think just throwing the liquid on his torso should work.

The less reliable idea I have is to heal Roderick. Get his conscious version back. I'm not sure were we would go from there.

To Evel’yee:
Two trick shots were impressive enough... You are still cute.
Here is the situation: Roderick is unconscious and bleeding to death, the entity that was trying to convince you to kill yourself is puppeteering his body with magic and I'm not even sure killing him will put him down. Mina is bleeding and will die in 24 seconds if she isn't healed, less if Roderick hit her again.
If you have something that can be used to imobilize him temporarily or disrupt magic from an evil aligned entity you can try, just don't tell us because he is listening. Otherwise I think the most important thing will be to give Mina a potion and protect her.

To Mina:
Wake up.

>>1098489
He's prone. This is a perfect time to wrestle that sword away from him.
Do we have any more healing supplies? If things don't get any worse, we only need something to stabilize Mina, so she can stabilize Roderick.

To Bakoth: You can see Tanna's thoughts. That should clue you in on a secret here: She's stuck in a time loop. This story keeps playing over and over. That means YOU ARE TRAPPED TOO. I'm guessing this will only end if we win. So, if you want to see tomorrow... surrender. Let Tanna have the box. At least then you have a future.

>>1098492
Sorry, forgot to write it in. 'Roderick' used his move action to stand up, which was why Tanna got an attack of opportunity on him. Also Tanna has three CLW potions in her bag.

>>1098489
Slinky, you have to strike him.
Hard and true.
Hes being puppeted, but that cant be precise and a puppeteer still has to have something to pull on the endnof the strings.
Hamstrings, tendons or broken bones.
It can be fixed later.
Roderick is tough and can tolerate a lot more than-
Mina!

>>1098490
...
Yes.
Even if you have to do that tanna.
Healing mina is a priority but theres others who can do that.

>>1098491
Not the fear scroll.
The mind in charge right now isnt a targettable entity.
Good!
That message will appraise evelee ofbthe full situation.
Evelee! Steal rodericks cure potion and use it on mina. Quick and messy if it has to be.
Buy her some time.

Remember all.
Roderick still has a hammer so the sword isnt the only threat plus if we need something blunt to pummel with it can be borrowed.

Slinky.
You can do this.

>>1098494
Ah, well. hmm.

>>1098489
...I think at this point, the right thing to do is to kill him. Trying to disarm him or wrestle him will be too difficult now. Ironically, doing that earlier when he was conscious might have worked.

We couldn't save everyone, but we can at least save three people today. You, Mina, and Evel'yee.

I hate to say it like this, but saving Roderick is becoming a sunk cost Tanna. Mina is on the verge of death and is about to be killed. You need to strike with the power and intent to end this now.

Pray that whatever happens after that you'll be able to find something to heal or patch Mina up with. She's not going to last much longer with a gash like that.

Oh yeah we also saved those other two guys who are in the jail atm.

1/3 Bakoth 2024/10/26(Sat)12:13 No. 1099053 ID: 3a0574
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Private Conversation

>To Bakoth: You can see Tanna's thoughts. That should clue you in on a secret here: She's stuck in a time loop. This story keeps playing over and over. That means YOU ARE TRAPPED TOO. I'm guessing this will only end if we win. So, if you want to see tomorrow... surrender. Let Tanna have the box. At least then you have a future.

...You got me. You really are an actual separate thing, aren’t you? That’s the only reason why you would say something so ignorant. You… you winds, you’re strangers, and you genuinely don’t know what’s going on. I suppose a time loop could make sense to outsiders looking in. Haha, I meant it before, and I mean it even more now. That makes everything so incredibly… terrifyingly… wonderfully… interesting.

You are right in a way though, things will ‘end’ if you all ‘win’. But it simply wouldn’t be in good faith to just hand it over. You’re probably going to end up killing my puppet, but let’s see where things land before then…

2/3 Tanna 2024/10/26(Sat)12:13 No. 1099054 ID: 3a0574
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Returning back to Tanna

Tanna Sybilant’s Turn

>No time left. You have to risk killing him or Mina will die.
>Slinky, you have to strike him. Hard and true.
>...I think at this point, the right thing to do is to kill him.
>I hate to say it like this, but saving Roderick is becoming a sunk cost Tanna. Mina is on the verge of death and is about to be killed.

I-I…

>You need to strike with the power and intent to end this now.
>Climb up on top of him and slice the back of his neck all the way.

Tanna’s Standard Action

AHHH!!

>TANNA’S ROLL VS. CONCEALMENT: 1d100(58) > 20[Close Darkness] = SUCCESS

>TANNA’S ATTACK: 12(4[Dexterity] + 7[Roll] + 2[Flanking] + 1[Shadow Strength] - 2[Shaken]) > 9(5[Base] + 4[Full Plate]) = SUCCESS

>TANNA’S DAMAGE: 2[Scimitar] + 1[Strength] = 3 PAIN

Roderick has been killed. The darkness recedes.

3/3 Tanna 2024/10/26(Sat)12:17 No. 1099056 ID: 9c61d0
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“I’m sorry… hah… no… I-I’m so fucking sorry…” He’s lying there… his blood pooling and body twitching as t-that bastard tries to control him still… b-but he’s dead…

Mina Haliasong’s Turn

Mina suffers 1 PAIN for having a Fatal Wound and being unconscious.

Evel’yee Trèswillow’s Turn

Evel’yee’s Standard & Move & Swift Action

>To Evel’yee:
>Two trick shots were impressive enough... You are still cute. Here is the situation: the entity that was trying to convince you to kill yourself is puppeteering his body with magic and I'm not even sure killing him will put him down. Mina is bleeding and will die in 24 seconds if she isn't healed. I think the most important thing will be to give Mina a potion.

“I got her, don’t worry.” Evel’yee says as she pulls a vial out of her bag. She feeds it to Mina, cradling her head so it heals her. The worst of her wounds begin to heal…

...I can’t… think straight…

END OF COMBAT

Focus Tanna. Mina is alive and the most urgent threat is dealt with.
Right now you need to assess the situation, make sure there is no other danger (maybe of the rat variety). Hold together a little longer, at least long enough for Mina to get up.

To Evel’yee:
You will be the most emotionally stable one here for a few minutes, so please be patient and keep those two from doing something they shouldn't. Also watch out for unexpected dangers and for that weird rat, there is something unnatural about it.

To Mina:
Stay calm. Breath in and exhale, slowly.

It's okay to cry

You did it, you saved him...

Cover your mouth and breathe slowly. You can't rest here, that demon is going to find a new host.
It's a longshot, but try to find out where that bastard went and end them. If they escape, then at least we won't have to deal with them possessing another party member.

Loot Roderick's precious items. Funeral burn the rest.

>>1099056
Oh slinky...
I am so sorry.

You...
You saved lives.
Uncontrolled, roderick would understand.
He was a warrior.
His life was standing between his companions and harm.
He payed the price for them with his safety willingly, facing and defeating the threat.
Under the entity's control, he was the danger to defeat.

I... i dont think roderick would have celebrated his freedom if it came at the cost of mina and
Evelee or even more.

Sit.
Cry.
Drape something over him if you can.
He's not your enemy.
He never was.
The things controlling the people here and the puppeteer who had him are your true foes.
Despite the words he spoke and the deeds he performed, it wasnt him.
What lies there isnt a foe defeated but a friend lost to an enemy most vile.
Honour him in your thoughts.
Let the others feel their loss but dont allow them to blame roderick, you or themselves.
The enemy who did this was beyond retribution this day, but that will not always be so.

... i wish we could hug you tanna.
You did well and... and you look like you could use one.

To evelee: is mina ok? Dont blame tanna. Or yourself. had to do it. He was going to kill mina and the thing that had him in thrall would not stop. Roderick was unconcious and it still made him move.

>>1099056
The fighting is over. Next most important thing is to get Evel'yee out of the room. That Protection vs Evil won't last forever, and she still has a geas. You and Mina can handle what's next, which will involve the box.

When Mina wakes up, tell her you're sorry, you couldn't find a way to keep Roderick alive. Evel'yee will back you up on that.

Put your weapon away, don't look at him or think about what just happened. It's going to be hard, but we're not out of this just yet. Whatever was possessing Roderick could still be lurking in the shadows. Stay vigilant, continue protecting the others until Mina's stable enough to move, grab what you need, and get out before trouble comes back.

1/5 Tanna 2024/11/17(Sun)09:31 No. 1099911 ID: 84f394
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>Focus Tanna. Mina is alive and the most urgent threat is dealt with.

Focus… right. Need to… need to focus.

>Right now you need to assess the situation, make sure there is no other danger (maybe of the rat variety).
>Put your weapon away, don't look at him or think about what just happened.

The rat… it’s somewhere nearby. I can still smell it. But I have no idea where it is.

I sling my scimitar on my back. I forgot to remove the blood. What a mess…

“R-Roderick…?” I hear a raspy, choked voice… it’s Mina’s. She’s leaning against Evel’yee and looking at his dead body, a broken darkness shading her eyes. “R-Roderick… no! NO!”

She begins casting a spell before anyone can react.

>To Evel’yee:
>You will be the most emotionally stable one here for a few minutes, so please be patient and keep those two from doing something they shouldn't. Also watch out for unexpected dangers and for that weird rat, there is something unnatural about it.
+
>is mina ok? Dont blame tanna. Or yourself. had to do it. He was going to kill mina and the thing that had him in thrall would not stop. Roderick was unconcious and it still made him move.
=
>Roderick was going to kill Mina, and the thing that had him in his thrall would not stop. He was unconscious and it was still making him move. You’re going to be the most emotionally stable one here for a few minutes, so please be patient and keep those two from doing something they shouldn't. Also watch out for unexpected dangers and for that weird rat, there is something unnatural about it.

“Mina! Don’t! He could still be dangerous!” Evel’yee grips her arm before she can lunge forward to touch Roderick with her faintly green glowing hand.

2/5 Tanna 2024/11/17(Sun)09:32 No. 1099913 ID: 3c6998
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>To Mina:
>Stay calm. Breath in and exhale, slowly.

“SHUT UP! GET OFF OF ME! HE’S STILL ALIVE, I NEED TO HEAL HIM!” She thrashes against Evel’yee, droplets of blood from her stomach wound hitting the floor.

Evel’yee struggles against Mina, her panicked motions and size making it difficult to hold onto her. “C-Can you fucking help me here, Tanna?!”

>The fighting is over. Next most important thing is to get Evel'yee out of the room. That Protection vs Evil won't last forever, and she still has a geas. You and Mina can handle what's next, which will involve the box.
>Cover your mouth and breathe slowly. You can't rest here, that demon is going to find a new host. It's a longshot, but try to find out where that bastard went and end them. If they escape, then at least we won't have to deal with them possessing another party member.
>Whatever was possessing Roderick could still be lurking in the shadows. Stay vigilant, continue protecting the others until Mina's stable enough to move, grab what you need, and get out before trouble comes back.

Oh, I won’t go anywhere. I’m pretty sure you know exactly where I am, don’t you Tanna? Do take a moment, haha...

I… I move forward to help restrain Mina. I grip her other wrist and the two of us hold her down. “Need to… need to regroup, get out of this room… before Eve’s protection wears off.”

“PLEASE! PLEASE GET OFF!!” She screams out, tears dampening her cheeks and her chest wound reopening. Evel’yee forces Mina’s hand onto her collarbone, the faint green light rushing into her and healing the bloodied wound.

“N-No! No NO NO!” She suddenly whips her gaze onto me, a burning broken anger boring straight into my eyes. “You said we’d stop this! That we’d figure something out! WHY IS HE DEAD?!”

>When Mina wakes up, tell her you're sorry, you couldn't find a way to keep Roderick alive. Evel'yee will back you up on that.

“I didn’t mean… I had to. I’m sorry…” Hollow words…

She shakes her head violently, her claws flexing and scrabbling at our wrists angrily. “YOU HAD TO?! YOU MURDERED M-”

“MINA!” Evel’yee shouts over her, silencing whatever she was going to say next. “That wasn’t Roderick anymore! That thing was going to kill you! Tanna saved your life!”

She looks at Evel’yee with a viciously hateful gaze, the seconds passing on like eternity. At some point though, she starts to shiver violently. Passing another gaze at Roderick’s corpse, her shivers shift to sobs, and she goes limp in our grasps. “M-My fault… i-it’s all my fault… my spell… I-I didn’t have enough faith… I could’ve saved him…”

“C’mon.” Evel’yee murmurs as she looks at me and nudges towards the door.

“Right.” I say back. Evel’yee helps me lift Mina up onto my shoulder, and then guides the two of us out of the room.

Do come back.

3/5 Tanna 2024/11/17(Sun)09:33 No. 1099915 ID: 8f3b85
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Closing the door behind us, Evel’yee and I lead Mina to the end of the hallway, away from the ritual room. Mina cries the entire time, and when we lay her down, she curls up into herself.

“First of all, fuck you. Second, we need to talk, but how are you doing right now?” Evel’yee says to me.

I need to focus. “I’m fine.”

“Cool. I don’t trust you, but I sure as fuck don’t trust whatever that monster was even more. I’m pretty sure those voices of yours or whatever the hell they are, they’re the only reason I survived this night.” Evel’yee explains. “I… I’m not gonna lie. I kind of want to stick a knife in you and split you open for what you did to me, but I don’t think Mina would like that. …I promised to hear you out too.”

“Makes sense.”

The mousling gives me a weird look as if I’m stupid. Maybe I am. “Just my fucking… okay. I don’t think you’re in a good enough state to explain, so here’s what’s gonna happen. You’re gonna sit down and figure out how to talk again while I try to get Mina to calm the hell down. Think you can do that?”

“Sure.”

Evel’yee turns towards Mina, but halts midstep. She’ll turn around and reach her hand out hesitantly, a softer expression on her face. She seems to struggle, but she pats me on the arm. “Hey, thanks for saving Mina. Don’t beat yourself up too badly, you did your best, and the real Roderick would’ve said the same thing.”

Upon saying that, some downcast feeling seems to dour her features. Her gaze falls downwards, and while she’s smiling, she doesn’t hide her pain well. “Can’t believe I… that thing made me think all of those terrible things about my friends. I wish I could say it was all its fault, but…” Forcing herself to shake her head though, she’ll look back up to me, “Anyways, thanks for helping me realize what was happening.”

Her words make me feel strange. My chest hurts.“Yeah, it’s no problem.” She’ll take my hand and help me lay down.

“I need to help Mina, but I’ll be back. Try to keep yourself together, talk with those voices of yours. They’re pretty damn smart, what with their compliments and all.” She’ll give a wink and some finger guns as she walks away. I don’t think it was directed towards me.

4/5 Tanna 2024/11/17(Sun)09:33 No. 1099916 ID: f8d071
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“Winds…”

>You did it, you saved him...

...Did I? Does it even matter? Every life bound by such a frail thread, and I’m the pair of scissors that futilely snips away. I don’t even know what I’m saying… I just know it’s true…

>It's okay to cry
>Sit. Cry.

I don’t… have the energy to cry. Everything feels so empty. Who had I actually been apologizing to? In the moment before I ended his life, I had been scared. I didn’t want to kill Roderick.

Once the blade began carving its crimson path though, I felt something else, something that scared me far worse. Old feelings had resurfaced, hidden within me. An indescribable wave of death, betrayals, and hatred… and it all felt so normal, satisfying even, like killing Roderick was right.

When I stared at my reflection in the blade, I swear I saw something old and sinister. Like they’ve been through this however many instances, but were content to sit back this time. Bakoth knows who I am, and even if I don’t exactly know what I’ve done… I know my list of sins has a long reach.

>Loot Roderick's precious items

...There’s no escape from this, is there?

5/5 Tanna 2024/11/17(Sun)09:39 No. 1099918 ID: 6be2b4
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Stepping up before Evel’yee notices, I make my way to the ritual room’s door.

“Huh? W-Wait! Don’t you, Tanna! STOP!” She yells out, breaking from Mina and sprinting towards me.

I open the door and step inside. This room of true death. Something meant to kill beings like us. That isn’t… Bakoth speaking this time. I recognize this setup, the rituals once done here. Closing the doors behind me, I feel Evel’yee slam against the heavy black slab. She pushes against it, trying to break through and stop me.

Glad to see you back. Here, let me remove the bit player really quick.

Don’t kill her. Please.

Hah, of course not. You’ve won tonight, I’m not petty. Besides, I imagine quite the story will be told in time with her.

“AGH!!” She screams from behind, the door slamming shut as I push against it. “S-stop reminding me… YOU PIECE OF SHIT! SHUT THE FUCK UP! GET OUT OF MY HEAD!”

“I’m sorry, Evel’yee. I’m going to get the box. Focus on Mina, I’ll be out in a moment.” I step forward towards Roderick’s corpse. His blood has seeped into the symbol of the Eye carved out in the ground, and the box lays in its center. Roderick’s hand rests atop it, the last of his body’s life used in such a pathetic way.

Ah, we are near the end of this chapter, aren't we?

You and I, we have a past together…

Wow, how incredibly astute.

...I don’t want to know who you are though. I don’t want to remember what I’ve done, or who I am. I’ve been getting glimpses… fragments of who I was, and I refuse to be that person.

And while I’m uncertain about a lot of things, what I am certain of though is that I despise you. I will never work with you, I’ll never entertain your lies, and I swear, I will be the cause of your absolute destruction for what you’ve done tonight.

It’s terribly surreal to hear from you of all people. I wouldn’t have it any other way this time though. What exciting tale will yet be told? What twists and turns will it take? Sends a shiver straight through my Soul just thinking about it.

Now, please, come pick me up. I can’t wait to get to know these ‘Winds’.

...

>... i wish we could hug you tanna. You did well and... and you look like you could use one.

Hah… yeah, if it was anything like that one with Mina before, I could use it.

...You all remember when I woke up and I was freaking out? Feels like ages ago, even though it’s been an hour or two at most, but you all told me to sing something familiar. That bit of advice, it had helped so much. Since then… I know there’s been some strange bits thrown in there, but you all have been so kind and helpful.

I hope it’s not asking for too much… but maybe you all could sing with me? I-I’m scared… but if you all are there, if I can move forward knowing you’re helping guide me, I know things will be okay.

♪”Along the shore the cloud waves break…”♪

My, what a tear-jerker.

♪ The twin suns sink behind* the lake, ♪

Will continue to sing the song with her, first call and response, then together. This Wind is a tenor.

We are stuck with the party pooper.
I can understand bein detached from consequences and therefor feeling indifference to the consequences of ones' own actions, but he really knows how to ruin the mood. Although if this place is meant to kill things like him and our host I guess he is not as free from consequences as we are.
The best we can do is try to ignore him.

The important part: Roderick didn't die on top of the circle and the box wasn't on his hand.
There is too much uncertainty here. I'm not sure what the best course of action is but I don't believe it will be beneficial to let this ritual follow it's course.
Drag his body and the box away from the circle towards the door. After that take his cape and use it to wrap around the box. It probable won't help but doesn't hurt to try.

Later when you rejoin the two the proposed arrangement should be that Evel’yee can't stay in the same room as the box. You and Mina shall watch over it in turn.

I know this wasn't the result you wanted, but remember: they were never the priority. Earlier I told you to kill them. You wanted to prevent their deaths out of your own volition and with the exception of one you succeeded. No reframing can take away the fact that you tried your best to help strangers. This is who you are.

As for the winking, feel free to take it as meant for you. After all, if I get any progress on that front you will be the one enjoying the benefits.

As for the song... I can give it a shot. Please forgive my lack of talent:

"Along the shore the cloud waves break,"
"A spectral shroud where silence wakes."
"The tide rolls in with whispered song,"
"It's rhythm steady, deep, and strong."

"Beneath the waves, in shadowed deep,"
"Where unseen creatures twist and creep,"
"A chorus stirs, both old and wise,"
"A hymn that echoes through the tides."

"Shall I depart, a whisper, still?"
"Or linger here against my will?"
"The shore, eternal, knows no fear,"
"It only waits for those who hear."

Well... I remember the old man's rhyme.
A sunless sky, a sunless sea
will accept all there is... and all that can be.

>>1099916
I think that past was brought up in ways that can never be considered normal. You were rewarded for murder. You still are.
But you still know it's not right. Hold onto that feeling and find out why you were taught to think up was down. There are a few situations where the individual observer is insane - but far, far fewer where the rest of the world is actually perfect.

Make sure the demon can't zombify Roderick's corpse.

♪*harmonica solo at the end*♪

>>1099918
Destroy it.

>>1099918
I sing like a wounded seagull, but for you slinky?
I'll squawk along.

"Along the shore the cloud waves break,"
"A spectral shroud where silence wakes."
I like this.

We're with you tanna.
At your side and against the dark.
If you are sure its time to pick up that damned box...
if youve got something in mind...
You have my trust too.

Lets... keep singing for now.
"The tide rolls in with whispered song,"
"It's rhythm steady, deep, and strong."