you need to pre-emptive attack on the neighbors. walk up to the gates openly and pretend it's diplomacy. then BAM.

>>384920
Go join up with Shabin and her Kobold fortress.
If we're talking about the future on accident, then stab Chomp because he's sold you out to a necromancer.

>>384920
Let's capture somebody and ask them wtf.

Hey Clamp! Did you get the message from the kobolds?What do you plan to do?

Clamp 2012/02/06(Mon)19:05 No. 384934 ID: d6af4f
File 132858393630.png - (112.55KB , 700x700 , 02.png )

>Kobold's message
Yeah. We never saw 'em, but one of our hunting parties just got back with a nice supply of valuables. Some gold and all that, nothin' we can use right now though. Shame about Chomp. Was my last living brother. Happens. Told us how he was a necro's plaything, too. Had it comin'. Nice to know Hilt didn't bite the big one. Wasn't plannin' on doing anything about the 'bolds message, frankly I didn't think it necessary.

"Jus' thought it a good idea to capture one of 'em, and ask what's up."
>"Shoulda thought of that before you introduced metal to heart."

>Go join up with Shabin.
We got problems, and they won't go away just 'cause we joined up. Our problems'll get to be their problems. Got kids too, and even though though they probly won't get killed, I don't much like the idea of another clan takin' em in and raising 'em. Then again... the 'bolds did mention somethin' about an artifact down deep. Might be able to help 'em with that one, in return for some damn peace. Otherwise, we track some clans, and show 'em not to mess with us.

Or we just keep on movin' wherever. Leaf was s'pose to show up by now with a real nice map. Not like he's ever on time.

Well first we wait for Leaf.

Then we go find someone and ask wtf.

What you really need is some intelligence. Something's changed to make all these guys attack you. Just straight up fighting will only treat the symptom.

Ugh, but it would take forever to go along the Oremor trail to help them get that artifact. What with the amount of enemy gnoll factions, faggot elves, faggot humans and terribly lethal one-foot rivers, you'd barely make it there all in one piece or sane or at least suffering a humiliating case of dysentery and cholera.

What we could do is hold a big gnoll conference of clans. Get organization together pfthahahaha no we make a "Clamp's Gnoll Peace Conference" sign and ambush the ambushers

ye, pretend to come in peace
then kill all the enemy chiefs.

That's a little backhanded though, isn't it? Would any gnolls be able to trust us after something that low? Hell, would anyone trust us?

Trust ain't the issue right here, it's numbers: yours are dwindling, and inviting all the other clans even for sneaky ambushings is probably just asking to get shanked. We need to cut losses and start thinking either escape plans, or surgical strikes. Being gnolls, I'm guessing you're better suited to the more fighty option.

Clamp 2012/02/06(Mon)19:41 No. 384947 ID: d6af4f
File 132858611384.png - (99.27KB , 700x700 , 03.png )

Ain't afraid of stickly elves, 'pparently already hunted by enemy gnolls, and the only rivers to the west are knee high. May as well wait for Leaf. Haven't made it easy for him, what with the movin' around. We just spent most of yesterday walkin' northwest.

"'ey grasswind."
>"... yeah, boss?"

Been 8 years since I killed her damn dad, and she still says 'boss' all sarcastic.

"Think you can track us down some enemy gnolls?"
>"Yeah, easy. You want to keep killing, don't you? Whatever, I've also seen tracks around the size of humans or elves. Close by, and too fresh."

Just keeps gettin' better. Haven't seen much for humans after they canceled that trade agreement. Gotta wonder what they're doin' so far from home.

Ain't gonna diplomacy anyone, either. Ain't even gonna pretend anymore. Diplomacy ain't a damn thing except trading bullshit with bullshit.

except this time it would be trading bullshit with a sword to the face.

Suspicious tracks! That sounds like a PLOT HOO^W^W intel source!

Suspicious tracks? Sure, let's check that out.

you need to find out whether those tracks are elves or humans

fortunately, they probably aren't an elf war host.
as it's unlikely they'd leave visible tracks.

which means they are either elves that are way to confident, or humans that are way to stupid.

in either case, be careful about killing simple travellers, last thing you need is heroes on your ass trying to slay the local menace (which is you) aim to scare the people off injure/kill only if necessary

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)06:01 No. 385012 ID: d6af4f
File 132862329504.png - (117.16KB , 700x700 , 04.png )

"We'll follow the small tracks. I wanna figure out why whoever they belong to is so far outta town."
>"You're the boss."

"Alright, everyone listen up. Humans or elves or somethin' 're wanderin' about, and we're gonna figure out why."

>"Uh, Chief.. why? What do we care? What about the the other gnolls?"
"Nothin' funny about gettin' attacked by gnolls."
>"But we hadn't gotten attacked for so-"
"You kids all lived the easy life! Real gnolls'd be lucky to go an entire day without another gnoll tryin' to off 'im. Now quit all yer whining and pack up."

Raised a buncha princesses.

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)06:01 No. 385013 ID: d6af4f
File 132862331208.png - (115.90KB , 700x700 , 05.png )

A few hours later.

Huh.

>"What? Never seen a few chopped down trees before?" Grasswind says.
"Use yer head for me."
>"Someone wanted wood? Just tell me, geez."
"You wanna be a tracker? You gotta use your head. Figure it out."
>"I don't know, some gnoll clan chopped down trees. What about it?"
"How many times have I told you that everyone but us was nomadic? Ain't any other gnoll clans that cared much for carrying wood tables around with 'em."
>"Okay, so you're saying humans or elves chopped down this tree?"
"Which?"
>"How should I know?"

You gotta be kidding... it's gonna be a long time before we get someone to fill Leaf's shoes.

I think the humans are trying to get the elves to attack us, maybe in an attempt at taking our territory.

Smack her, smack her hard on the ass

tell the dumb bitch that since Elves are tree loving hippies a fact that every child knows, which option does that leave as to who chopped down the trees.

if she answers wrong or gives you lip, smack her again

>>385014
That's the kind of twisty (paranoid) thinking that makes a gnollboss.

i doubt the elves would chop down trees, humans on the other hand probably do. this could be a very bad sign. if the humans are cutting lumbar here it might mean they want your territory, or at least the trees in it. i'd send a scout towards the human lands to see if they have exhausted all closer sources of lumber, if they have it would make sense they would want the resources in your territory. if the humans want something in your land your going to have to make a deal or move, they are way to numerous to fight.

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)09:34 No. 385036 ID: d6af4f
File 132863606255.png - (74.92KB , 700x700 , 06.png )

She aint tough enough to earn herself the consideration of a slap. She gets a flick.

"Think, girl. Elves don't chop down trees, they'd hack off their own head with a club before they did that. Who does that leave?"
>"Gah, humans?"
"And why might humans be here?"
>"I dunno, for our territory? You tell me, boss."
"Now there's a thought. Could be that they want elves to attack us, but they're hostile 'nuff as is, so I dunno."

>"Ey, boss." Leaf says.

Now there's a voice to a competent guy.

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)09:35 No. 385037 ID: d6af4f
File 132863614625.png - (481.34KB , 1071x1500 , 07.png )

>"I updated my map like you asked."
"No wonder you're late. Been busy. Thought I told you not to go through harpy land. What're all these red X's?"
>"It's cool Boss, they're not as numerous as they once were. Orcs were more trouble than harpies exploring south, but they're slow as always. X's are other gnoll clans approximate areas of more activity."
"Whatever, it ain't them I'm worried about. Lotta trees between us and the human territory, if we're at the green O. Ain't any reason for 'em to come out here for wood."

Humans aren't competent at slow encroachment. When they want to take a territory they tend to mass at the edge of it and just swarm the place. Usually any small groups of humans you find aren't going to be seeking territory. More likely raiders.

clearly what you need to do, is capture a human and find out what the heck they are doing

>>385037
I say we find out where the wood's going. Wanna bet it's NOT going back to human territory?

>>385037
What about Dark Elves? I mean, no one ever thinks they've done anything!

Dorfs? 'bolds? Goblins?

Well, unless the humans are burning these entire trees in one go, they're building something with them. Since you don't see any funeral-pyre sized smoke columns (right?), that leaves building stuff. Now, why they're building stuff out here in the middle of gnoll territory is the big question. Better find where the logs went.

Look for the drag marks those tree trunks would leave from being hauled off. Or hoof-prints from the pack animals, if the humans sawed them down right here. Even Grasswind couldn't miss either of those.
...When she does miss either of those, give her a dope-slap, and hand her off to Leaf. You don't have the time or patience for surly wannabe trackers.

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)12:58 No. 385071 ID: d6af4f
File 132864828624.png - (95.39KB , 700x700 , 08.png )

Followin' the lumber trail. Easy 'nuff, there's wheels tracks and animal tracks on animal tracks. Even Grasswind can follow a path that looks like it's been wrecked. Looks so damn proud about it too.

>Dark elves, bolds, goblins and dorfs
That'd be a real twist. Only ever seen a couple dark elves in my life. As for the others, it's possible there's some goblin's, but they're pretty far west, and bolds and dorfs even further.

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)13:01 No. 385072 ID: d6af4f
File 132864848381.png - (161.94KB , 700x700 , 09.png )

Humans. As expected. Buildin' something. Not surprisin'. Looks like it was right, territory. Sounds real obvious, but they've never paid much mind to us before, so I can't help but think there's still somethin' goin' on. I think I counted 35 gnolls we got behind my back.

>"What're you standin' there for, boss? Never had a chance to test myself against humans before! They must be real strong, to move around with those buildings."
"....... I'm thinkin' about how to get a human alive to ask 'em a few questions."
>"Well then why don't we just charge?! We got over 30 gnolls ready, and there can't be more than a dozen or so humans at this place!"

Startin' to get to be night out, they're probably either in their homes, or returning to 'em.

Send a small party with a white flag or whatever is the universal signal for surrender/peace is here.

Degrade that the girl would probably get an arrow to the neck or impaled before she even got to the camp. Human's are crafty, adaptive Jack-of-all-trades, nearly worth a misfit team a gnolls, elves, kolbolds, and orcs for a good group of two experienced fighters. And with ten times the racism with none of the elven faggotry and very self-aware.

Granted, this just looks like a simple community of lumberja- HOLY FUCK GET AWAY! No, not human lumberjacks! Anything but them. They eat, drink and piss lumber.

ok something to keep in mind, humans have allot of noncombatants, and they take avenging them seriously. if you go down there and kill everyone, (and if its mostly a civilian settlement you probably could) the main human settlement will send there army after you, and they will not stop until ever last man women and child of your tribe is dead. if it comes down to a fight make a point of letting the noncombatants leave unharmed.

>lumberjacks
>take one alive
Invite them to a pancake social. :V

Seriously, though, I can think of two ways to do this. We can either wait near one of the homes and nab the guy living there when he returns or we can just knock on a door and talk to whoever answers. Depends on whether or not we expect these humans to be hostile.

Didn't we have some sort of treaty with the humans? Better talk to ONE of them alone before we wipe out the settlement.

Send a small group to talk, but have backup on standby in case they're openly hostile.

The problem with humans is that attacking a settlement tends to bring down the whole country on your head.

Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)15:04 No. 385104 ID: d6af4f
File 132865588315.png - (117.51KB , 700x700 , 10.png )

>>385098
That was canceled a couple years after it was made, right about 6 years ago.

I keep my gnolls hidden for now, but guide them as close as they can get without revealing the fact that there's a buncha gnolls right outside.

I step closer, still hidden. I mighta brought a group, but there's two armed guards. Funny, I didn't see 'em while coming closer. Heavy armor, too, like they're expectin' a fight.

>"Whoa, is that actually a human?" Grasswind states.
"Told ya to keep behind."
>"And miss this? No way, they look silly."

>>385102
You didn't see ANYONE, then you see two heavily armed guards? I suspect magic. Like, they've got a limited invisibility spell on the place, hiding all their guards from being spotted from a distance.

But in any case I think we would lose a bunch of gnolls if they have guards in heavy armor. I really think we should interrogate a civilian.

Okay, that doesn't bode well. Do you have any anti-armor weapons? Crossbows, perhaps? You could probably swarm two of them, but you'd take losses. Perhaps we should look for opportunities to abduct someone stealthily instead. Still, the problem with taking hostile action is it gives them all the excuse they need to be hostile in kind. Maybe hang around for a day or two and look for an opportunity to peacably approach someone off by themselves.

I don't suppose there's any chance of parleying with the other gnoll clans and finding out what's going on from their perspective?

Can we get ahold of the guy who was fishing on the dock? He looked unarmored. The biggest problem would be that the dock is out in the open, and you might be seen.

Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)15:40 No. 385116 ID: d6af4f
File 132865802044.png - (93.45KB , 700x700 , 11.png )

I'll keep an eye out for a few lone straggles. Tellin' everyone else to do the same.

>Contacting other gnoll clans to see what's going on
"Normally ain't a problem, but given recent events, I'm a tad skeptical about contactin' other gnolls.

>guy at the dock
Yeah, let me check 'em out. Or not. He's gone. His stuff is still there, but the fisher's just gone. Not even rippling water to suggest he fell in, an' I kept a close eye on the settlement while movin', I'm pretty sure I woulda seen him move off the docks.

This is suspicious as all hell. Back off quietly before something happens; you've gotten ambushed enough lately. Set up camp somewhere they won't find you and run surveillance on them for a few days, following people that leave when you have the sufficiently stealthy manpower to do so.

My bets this place was under an illusion or under a weird time-space spell. Only reason I think it might be a time spell is that there is fisherman stuff here, implying there is a fisherman in the village and he was doing it earlier and what you were seeing was a past version of this settlement until you got closer, where time drew forward.

But bets are it's an illusion spell. Also bets are that those heavy armor blokes are zombies.

>>385118

Don't you remember alternate alternate Chee from the past from the future? Illusions are worse than weird time/space spells!

>>385120
nope.avi
weird time/space spells almost destroyed the world, illusion spells just alter reality for a bit and just affect people who see the illusion.

>>385116
Yep. This is a trap. They probably built this place JUST to lure gnoll raiders in and slaughter them.

So this is a false lead, it won't tell us why the other clans are harassing you suddenly. Let's go find an enemy gnoll to capture.

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)19:04 No. 385155 ID: d6af4f
File 132867025257.png - (92.89KB , 700x700 , 12.png )

>"Back so soon?" Grasswind asks.
"Yeah. We're leavin'."
>"What's the development?" asks Leaf.
"There's somethin' wrong with this place. Ain't someplace we should tamper with.
>"What?! Are you chickening out?" grasswind says.
"Grasswind, yer beginnin' to remind me an awful lot bout a girl I once killed. Jus' 'sayin."

We're moving somewhere else for the time being. Leaf says there's an alcove that isn't often used that should be safe.

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)19:04 No. 385156 ID: d6af4f
File 132867026221.png - (122.82KB , 700x700 , 13.png )

The next morning...

"Now, Leaf, we gotta capture an enemy gnoll. Ask 'em nicely why they're givin' us a hard time."
>"Easy 'nuff. There's a clan around here, and we'll almost definitely get ambushed."

"Yo Chief! We want to duel you!"
>"What. You dumbass kid, are you dense? We ain't got the time."
"Don't chicken out, old man. You're goin' senile! Bout time we got another gnoll in charge!"

Talon. Only gnoll in existence who hates harpies more than me. Normally he ain't one of the normal challengers, which has me worried that if he's challengin' me, there's another bunch that wants to. Including that one at his side. Forgot his name.

Think you can take 'em?

Don't go easy on them.

>>385156
"Senile? Boy, when Gnolls go senile, they kill everything in sight until they can't kill anymore. You don't even understand the ramifications should you beat my crippled and aged ass. Schisms will split this clan apart and death will just spread among us. People will constantly duel you because you don't have either my reputation or my berserking rage. You will be worn down and killed as chief eventually, far, far sooner than me, with your pups killed or assimilated into some other clan. That is what it was like in my day. You will die and you will all have lived for nothing. You want to be chief, face me when your stronger, older, and wiser and this clan is stabler. Otherwise, you'll just start a long trend of death for this clan."

Pfft, just beat 'em down already. And take that sweet necklace when it's over.

Punch them out, continue about your business.

Alternatively, invite them to go explore the settlement-trap themselves if they think pulling back was such an unworthy idea.

One of them needs to have their spine removed.

>>385165
this is a good speech for after you beat the shit out of him.

1/3 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)23:42 No. 385208 ID: d6af4f
File 132868697693.png - (121.98KB , 700x700 , 14.png )

"When I go senile, you'll know it, boy!"

2/3 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)23:43 No. 385209 ID: d6af4f
File 132868698623.png - (78.29KB , 700x700 , 15.png )

"If you actually manage to beat my ass, you'll break the damn clan! Think they'll follow you?! You don't have reputation, strength, wit, not a damn thing cept a necklace to show you killed a few scrawny birds!"

3/3 Clamp 2012/02/07(Tue)23:43 No. 385210 ID: d6af4f
File 132868699692.png - (109.44KB , 700x700 , 16.png )

"You wanna be chief? Come back when you're more than a damn pup!"
>"W-whoa, Boss, go easy on 'em, we need 'em for a fight."
"Ain't goin easy on this one! Listen up, you wanna challenge me?! I ain't pullin' my punches anymore! Talon, I'm takin' yer harpy bone necklace! You want it back, make it up by makin' yourself useful!"

>>385210
Right. That'll make the others hesitate before attempting to duel you in the coming days of travel investigation and battle. Having one moderately injured gnoll is better than having 5 lightly injured ones, or being injured yourself.

Also you could use the extra respect and fear. So next, find an enemy gnoll so we can find out what the hell's going on.

beat him him good, make and example of this arrogant shmuck

Rip out his earring too~

*ahem*

And make a prime example of what happens when you mess with the Clamps.

Don't push it too far. If you do, the rebels' hatred of you may override their fear resulting in more rebellion, not less. You need to show you are both strong and honorable.

>>385236
This.

Eh, that's enough of a show of dominance for now. Don't want to end up having to fight your own clan more than the others.

Oh, and Talon's buddy's name will be "Mud," until they both prove they're useful.

Now, time to go ambush some ambushing gnolls. Maybe get some idea what the hell is going on.

Yeah, you're about done here. There's some good and shocked faces behind you - I think you've made your point.

Now - onwards: let's get to that alcove.

Clamp 2012/02/08(Wed)09:09 No. 385272 ID: d6af4f
File 132872098913.png - (119.01KB , 700x700 , 17.png )

This necklace is his pride n' joy, his testament to being a damn enthusiastic harpy hunter. I hurt him more takin' that, than all my punches. No need to do more n' that, so not gonna nickname him or take his earring or nothin'. Once he's useful, he'll get his necklace back.

Told my clan to prepare for an ambush. Got to the alcove before anythin' like that happened. No idea what I'm lookin' at, now. Ain't part of my clan, that's for sure.

>>385272
What gnolls wear ROBES?! Maybe these guys are necromancers. I suggest using the element of surprise.

Suggestion 2012/02/08(Wed)09:25 No. 385280 ID: 459534

Well, we've got the advantage of numbers. Should we just surround 'em and ask what they're doing?

>>385280
With necromancers, you never have the advantage of numbers.

>>385292
Touche'. Is there something we could do to keep them from casting spells?

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/08(Wed)22:40 No. 385330 ID: d6af4f
File 132876965924.png - (75.86KB , 700x700 , 18.png )

Only seen a gnoll mage twice before, an' I doubt there's two necromancers who're so out in the open.

"Leaf."
>"Boss."
"Surprise 'em."
>"Boss."

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/08(Wed)22:41 No. 385331 ID: d6af4f
File 132876967753.png - (108.02KB , 700x700 , 19.png )

Shnk!

Go in blitzkreig-style with half your group to capture them before they know what's going on. Leave the other half in hiding as backup just in case you get surprised.

Element of surprise already used. Walk up and demand surrender in exchange for their life. You're intimidating enough that it should be an easy task. Have backup ready in case they try anything. Leaf needs to be ready to put an arrow in this one, too, just in case.

Clamp 2012/02/09(Thu)00:26 No. 385347 ID: d6af4f
File 132877598506.png - (167.34KB , 700x700 , 20.png )

>Exchange for their life
Too late fer one of 'em.

"You. Start talkin."
>"Wha-what?! What's your problem, g- crap, are you Clamp?!"
"What's it to ya?"
>"NNnothing!"
"Start talkin', or my buddy's gonna shoot you, too."
>"Fine, fine, what do you want to know?"
"Why is it that every damn clan suddenly wants out head?"
>"I wouldn't know anything about that!"
"Bullshit, you knew who I was."
>"Ehrr, n-no! I don't know why, I swear it!"

He used to be a fine warrior. Then he took an arrow to the knee.

>>385349
ಠ_ಠ

>>385347
I believe him.
Ask what he's doing in robes, what's with the box, what IS he, and what tribe is he with.

>>385363
Shoot him in the knee, is what I'm saying.

If he doesn't know that, what DOES he know? And does he know who might know why everyone's after you?

Because an un-allied gnoll who isn't useful isn't really worth keeping around, you know what I mean...

... I MEAN INTIMIDATION OK

>>385366
Why would you believe such a flimsy lie?

Continue intimidating him. Rough him up, if that doesn't work.

Clamp 2012/02/09(Thu)03:10 No. 385385 ID: d6af4f
File 132878585672.png - (133.15KB , 700x700 , 21.png )

"'You don't know'. What DO you know? What kinda gnoll has robes? What tribe're you in, what are you, and what's with the box?!"
>"I-I was just doing a little ceremony! Innocent ritual, nothing about it! These are the robes for it, nothing special! I'm part of the Razor Clan! I can't tell you what's in the box!"
"Oh, now you 'can't' tell me. What I 'can't' do is find a reason why I would keep ya alive, an un-allied gnoll, who ain't useful fer anythin'!"
>"I can't tell you what's in the box!"
"Grasswind would love to have a bone kneecap, ya know!"
>"It's true." Grasswind says.
"So what's in the damn box?!"
>"I can't tell you! I mean it! I'll die if I tell you!"
"Don't give me any bullshit, pup! You'll wish you were dead if you don't tell me what's in the damn box?!"
>"I can't.. tell you that! I'm not lying, I really can't!"

Present the options of either keeping quiet and dying now, or dying later by telling us the contents of that box.

If it was just an "Innocent ritual" that shouldn't be a problem.

>>385381
What's with the mark on his face? Anyway draw out his beating. Keep asking various questions, revisiting topics he's given faulty information on or outright refused to speak on.

Revisit:
>why they keep attacking us
>what the ritual was for
>who he's working for
>why it's ALL the clans and not just one or two
>is the box dangerous?
>is there a person in the box?
>what happens if someone opens the box?

>>385391

Looks like a scar. Coulda gotten that from any number of reasons.

Clamp 2012/02/09(Thu)03:49 No. 385396 ID: d6af4f
File 132878815279.png - (90.75KB , 700x700 , 22.png )

Razer Clan. Damn nervy bunch, living so close to human lands. Guess they're still around.

"What's the ritual for?!"
>"I can't tell you!"
"Who're you workin' for?!"
>"I can't!"
"Why's it all the clans attackin' us?!"
>"I don't know!"
"Is there a person in the box?!"
>"I can't risk saying!"
"What happens if ya open the box?! There someone in there?! It dangerous?!"
>"I can't say, I'm telling ya! I told you everything I can! My name is Path, I'm part of the Razor Clan, and I was a scout before becoming a ritualist on the side!"
Then either ya keep quiet and die now, or tell us somethin' and die later!
>"Just kill me, then!"

He ain't much a squealer, that's for certain.

>>385396
Enough threats. Break something.

Then make him open the box.

WHY can 't he tell? Will they kill them if he tells, or is he somehow physically blocked from saying a thing?

>>385400
It is possible he is under some kind of spell that will kill him if he spills the beans.

>>385398
TORTURE NEVER WORKS.

Goddamn, how many times do I gotta say it before it sticks?

>>385396
"OH, so you're more willing to die by my hands then, what, your Necromancer master? What's he got on you, some damn leash spell that auto-kills you horrifically when you disobey? I mean, what's stopping me from finding a worse way. You ever heard of a blood eagle, son?

Wait... you're undead, ain't you? Those stitches in your face hold you together!?"

>>385402
But it's fun.

when he says he can't he might mean he is literally incapable of telling you, or telling you will trigger some sort of magical kill switch. also I feel like he's trying to bait you into killing him, likely because he figures your going to torture him for info otherwise.

hmmm... "what about nodding, can you nod and shake your head?" "is the thing in the box deadly?"

Clamp 2012/02/09(Thu)13:28 No. 385441 ID: d6af4f
File 132882289394.png - (107.65KB , 700x700 , 23.png )

>"What do you think, Boss?" Leaf asks.
"Dunno. Tempted to make him open the box. Don't even feel like he's lyin' about not bein' able to, or he's a damn good actor. Sounds crazy, but I gotta wonder if he's somehow blocked from sayin' a thing, or under some spell that'll kill him."

I ain't into torture, but he don't know that.

"Ever heard of a blood eagle, pup? How about a gut wall, or a skin shield?"

He's sweatin'. I have no damn clue what any of those things are, I'm makin' em up.

"Can you nod, pup?"
>"....may..be."
"What's in the box? Somethin' deadly?"
>"I don't actually know, I swear! Ask something else, I'll nod or shake my head if I know, really! I'll do it! You'll..."
"I'll what?"
>"Nothing, I can't say, I said too much!"

Weird kid. Sounds terrified. Which yes or no question should I ask first, then...

>>385402
You forgot to finish that sentence

TORTURE NEVER WORKS except when it does, and usually that's because you had enough time and willingness to be depraved and brutal. Clamp and the rest could do the brutal part. Not too sure about time. If possible, would be better to not attempt it, since presumably this one'll take a while.


That said-I get the feeling this is one of those 'someone he cares about more than his life is being held to insure he's quiet' it fits the scenario-why he's not talking, despite being terrified.

So on that note-what do you know of the clan he mentioned? I'd say threaten to murder your way through the clan, and see how he responds. Depending on HOW he reacts, we could get a much better sense of what's up with this guy and the ones that sent him.

>>385443
Torture wouldn't be an option any way. Clamp said he isn't into it.

get Talon to open the box,
if he declines, tell him you'll give his necklace back if he does

>>385441
"I know you know somethin' dammit. Just give me something useful to me. If you've already said too much, then your Master can't fucking kill you from here, right now. I'll end your fucking Master. You want to live? The only chance of that know is to help. me. win. You have no loyalties, I can smell it on ya. You can betray him. Do it, coward. Be a gnoll for once in your life. Don't get killed for some bitch that ain't one of your kind."

'Will I regret it?' We know the answer here.

Ok, you decide how to best structure, but here's a few yes-nos.

Can you open it?
Are you from around? (As opposed to being from afar)
They need the big box for today? Tomorrow? This week?
Is it important?

Who do you obey to? Is he gnoll? Orc? Human? Elf? Is he from around? Does he have a tribe? 10 warriors? 20? 50? 100?

Direction. North? South? East? Where is their location?
If he aint telling, we gotta find out more.

So, piecing the puzzle, since we cant just hammer the same key expecting him to spit answers. Two ritualists in the middle of a forest taking care of a box made of...?

Theres the chance the other gnoll tribes are defending this thing, or their master. And we happen to be in the wrong place.

Frankly, we don't have enough info. My gut feeling is to leave it behind. And by leave behind, to burn the entire thing and prepare for retaliation.

(Frankly, I don't even know how much magic is this world, so I cant really speculate on whats going on and whats the kind of retaliation we should expect)

Clamp 2012/02/09(Thu)16:06 No. 385467 ID: d6af4f
File 132883240927.png - (125.41KB , 700x700 , 24.png )

Don't know much about the Razor Clan he's in. Real normal from what I know. Pillage n' loot so they can afford the next pillage n' lootin. Bout 30 gnolls from what I know, but not much more.

"You need the box today? Tomorrow? Important? Who's leadin' you? Talk, damnit! Who set you up? Was it a gnoll or somethin' else?"
>"Something.. else. Box was just.. a delivery. O-ow..."
"If I don't hear more, I may pay your own clan a visit. An' as you can see by your coworker, I don't care much for havin' spare mouths around."
>"W-we were gonna attack you anyway, so that doesn't matter..."
"Just give me somethin' useful, damnit! If you said too much, then your chief or master or whoever can't kill you from here, huh?! How bout you help me out and ya might actually win. Ain't too loyal, are you?"
>"I meant, I said too much.. for you."
"Talon. You want your necklace back? Open the box."
>"Sure thing, boss." Talon says.
Nice to know he ain't bitter. Good kid, usually.
>"No nono, don't open it! Don't open it, you'll get..." says Path.
"Shut it, pup."
>"Lotta mechanical latches are under the cover this thing, boss." Talon says. "But I'm gettin' it, I can pop the lid in a moment."

>>385463
Lotta magic I hear in different areas, but we don't see much around here. Gotta keep my guard up jus' in case.

We'll get what? Cursed?
Hey, if its not staying here, where's the box going?

Also, I guess it'd be a pretty good idea to unlock it and.. idunno, us a rope to open from a safe distance or something. Or someone expendable.

We'll get candy!

>>385467
"Make some goddamn sense! Your life depends on it! No riddles, no nothing. Think about what you could gain. Your Master has good shit at his disposal I bet. Or is this about what you could lose? He's got something you care about. doesn't he? Your woman? Your kid? Your soul? Out with it man!

Whoa, whoa, whoa!
That many latches means that whatever is in there, whoever packed it did not want it to get out by accident. That means there's a damn good chance whatever it is is dangerous. Even though Talon challenged you, you can't go 'round risking a clan-mate that way.

There is maybe another way, but you have to check something first. Have Talon try lifting up one end of the box. This'll tell if Path and his buddy could have brought it here. If Talon can lift it, that means Path was here to drop it off. And that means someone is going to be here soon to pick it up. If you hid and watched, you could follow whoever comes along. They would possibly lead you closer to Path's master.

However, if Talon can't lift the box, that means that Path was here to either do something with what's in the box, or to see if the box was here, before getting his clan to pick it up.

Whichever way it goes, this alcove is not safe to stay in. Have your clan take the box with them, to be opened en route to a safe overnight stop.

Clamp 2012/02/09(Thu)17:29 No. 385479 ID: d6af4f
File 132883737542.png - (117.59KB , 700x700 , 25.png )

"Hold on a sec, Talon. I got a bad feeling about that box. Ain't gonna have you messin' with funny shit like that. We can lift it up with a couple of us. Take it someplace else, maybe open it from afar. Now I gotta ask this pup more questio... er, huh."

>"Shit, boss, what'd you do to him?" Grasswind says.

Th' hell? I didn't mess him up that bad, did I?
"'Ey, pup! What were you gonna say? Say somethin', alright?"

His soul probably just got ripped from his body. Watch out for dem necro lords.

Necromancy.

i've seen a spell that looks similar like this before, its a necromancy spell that pulls the soul out of the target forcefully enough that it causes the body to decay. the version i saw also had a fairly short range.

>>385479
The box might actually have a necromancer or lich in it! Yay! Or nearby.

"He's rotting to death. Talon, clear the box. Death dealin' creature nearby. Everyone stay close and if you feel funny, speak up and slow down! Your soul's probably getting ripped from your body! Focus on keeping it, however you think you can keep it!"

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/09(Thu)18:25 No. 385491 ID: d6af4f
File 132884070591.png - (126.75KB , 700x700 , 26.png )

Ain't ever seen a necromancer, but damn if this ain't something that sounds like one.

>"The fuck is happening?!" Grasswind says.
"Dunno. Ain't seen a thing like it. Gonna drop 'em, now. We'll bury 'im. This ain't no way to go. Stay away from that box. And keep your eyes open, I got a feelin' somethin's around the corner. We're leavin'."
>"Uh, Boss. May wanna look up, actually." says Leaf.

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/09(Thu)18:27 No. 385493 ID: d6af4f
File 132884086755.png - (223.15KB , 700x700 , 27.png )

Well ain't that some shit I never seen.

>"Hello, everyone. You're all new around this area, are you not? I simply do not recognize any of you, but I apologize if I have met you, I do not mean to say that all you gnolls look the same."

>>385493

"S'fine. Probably couldn't tell you apart from another of... whatever you are, so we're even."
>Insert 'what are you doing' comment from thing here
"You know, Gnoll stuff-killing others to take their shit to take their shit like normal. How bout you-what are you up to?"

Might lead to some useful info-really, just something to solidify suspicions.

Also, PLEASE keep an eye out for jittery folk in your group trying to aggress this thing in a panic. That's no good.

What even is it? It doesn't look like a dead body or a zombie or anything.

>>385497
It's an undead bone construct from the original Chee Quest.

>>385500

But the original Chee Quest was just a dream! They said it was all in my head! It can't be real!

>>385510
The liches from the dream world still exist, they're just not ruled by Lichee anymore. Our meddled timeline became real.

State that you really don't care about any malevolent plans this lich has for the world. Just care that your clan's getting ambushed. That's pretty much it. What's up with that, dawg?

Apply Straw hat to bird construct.
Attempt conversation.

>>385516

Oh and next you're going to start lecturing me about this supposed "fourth wall"

Clamp 2012/02/09(Thu)20:14 No. 385524 ID: d6af4f
File 132884724913.png - (125.22KB , 700x700 , 28.png )

"Doubt I could tell you guys apart. Whatever ya are, don't really care. We're just goin' through. Gnoll's bein' gnolls. The question I'd like to know, is what're you doin' around here?"
>"Just going through. Skeletal construct being skeletal construct. Funny, how easy that explanation can be applied to anyone and anything, and still hold true."
"That's close enough. You too, Grasswind. I don't care whatever malevolent things you're doin', Necromancer, what I care is that my clan's gettin' ambushed like all hell. You wanna tell me what's goin' on with that?"
>"Ah. You are the lone clan. You must be Clamp, then."
"What's it to ya?"
>"My master would like your soul, but do not draw your sword, I am not going to slay you now."
"What? Ya scared?"
>"I do not feel fear, but the reasons I would still apply. Your allies would fight me if I slew you here, and although half of them may die, I do not like my chances. And if your soul is within me while I attempt to deliver it, and I die, it would be lost forever. It would be a catastrophic failure. Therefore, you will leave this area with your life."

>>385524
Ask why he wants your soul.

>>385527

Oh please, I want his soul.
He probably wants it to power something up with Clamp's super strength or something.

We may have found the reason for all those ambushes. If the necromancer had no trouble "hiring" gnolls to find the kobolds I imagine he'd have no problem using them to get Clamp's soul, either.

What is it with gnolls these days and being coerced by necromancers?

I should have mentioned, once you find out why he (and/or his boss) wants your soul see if there's anything else he might take in place of your soul. Like, say, an artifact hidden beneath a kobold dwelling...

Clamp 2012/02/09(Thu)21:31 No. 385543 ID: d6af4f
File 132885191888.png - (231.09KB , 700x700 , 29.png )

"Amuse me. What's so nice about my soul?"
>"Come on, boss, say the word and we'll lop his skull off!" Grasswind says.
"Shut it, girl."
>"How unusual. Most gnolls show more fear than this. Only the ones by the forest edge have fear in time."
"I ain't some cowards, and the girl's too dumb to feel fear. Now what's your angle? Takin' any substitute for it?"
>"I will not say. We are, however, counting on you to continue fighting. I do not believe there is anything you can offer over your soul."
"What, th'other gnolls? What's with 'em gettin' pushed around so easily by your kind?"
>"We merely need to show signs of strength, and gnolls are easily controlled. It's almost too easy. You should know this, a single punch in a backtalkers face sealed your status as chief, did it not?"
"Yeah, what o- wait, how do ya know about that?"
>"... this time, it is me with a loose tongue. Oh well, think on that if you must, it is beyond you. We are done talking, I believe. I will be taking the box now. Goodbye."

>>385543
"Now hold on now, you can't be takin' our property when we have the advantage. An important soul, a box, and all will be for moot if you're slain here for just stealing from us. I would not be a smart man to just let a scheming undead man have his way. You want this without risk to your potential investment and property, we will have a pleasant exchange. And I mean a pleasant exchange."

I already know why he wants your soul. He wants what gives you an advantage over all the other gnolls, why you're smart despite being a big, gruffy, huggable barbarian who blacks out for extremely violent periods.

You want the box, huh? How d'ya like the sound of some "catastrophic failure" along with it?

>>385543
"Now, see, here's the rub. What's more important, the box or my soul?"

"I ask since I don't much like the whole 'surrenduring to one guy' thing you're pushing for. And, in case you forgot, you already told me you need my soul-and you're not confident you can claim it and get it back safe and sound with my crew here."

However he acts, we learn more about the box even if we end up losing it.

keep in mind he may be bluffing about how strong he is, if he really could could take you and most of your men the necromancer would have just sent two of the things and snatched your soul already. he also may just be overconfident, pointing out if he really was strong enough to kill most of your clan on his own, the necromancer would not bother wearing your clan down by turning your neighbors against you. he wold have just sent a handful of other constructs to back this guy up and had them attack you.

Well he can't kill you. So how about you stick that sword in its skull while it's not looking?

Guys. The necromancer is spying via us. Just thought you should know.

Cut its fucking head off!

>>385582

Oh yeah, that's right. The countless advice souls.

Uh.

[closes eyes and ears]
LALALALALALALA~

I wouldn't deal with these magic things. He wants the box? He takes the box. We're out of our depth here.

We're brave and all, but we're gnolls. Normal. Gnolls. Not magic.

We gonna need some numbers.

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/10(Fri)02:54 No. 385595 ID: d6af4f
File 132887127763.png - (170.97KB , 700x700 , 30.png )

"So you don't wanna kill me."
>"That is correct."
"I ain't into surrender. Specially not from some bones who wants my soul. And you want the box, even when ya admit we've got the advantage?"
>"That is correc-"

SHUNK

"Take some 'catastrophic failure' instead!"

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/10(Fri)02:54 No. 385596 ID: d6af4f
File 132887129718.png - (180.61KB , 700x700 , 31.png )

>"As violent as your reputation would say, gnoll Chief. The only truly independent Chief, I might say. I am not a construct so easily killed. We will retrieve the box, or the contents if you are foolish enough to open that. That is not a bluff. We do not want you to open the box, and you will regret opening the box if you do, but trust us when we say it will hurt you more than hurt us."

The hell, the voice is coming from the body now. Skitterin' off real quick. Wonderin' if it ain't gonna come back and bite me, gettin' carried away like that.

Numbers would be nice, sure, but this changes stuff. Can't just get numbers, I'm gonna need some way to fight off magic.

You know who's got magic? The humans.

We need to revisit that camp, and tell them that shit's going down. No diplomacy, just giving them info and maybe handing over the box.

...how did that construct know about what happened when you first became chief...? Was that construct created using the soul of one of the gnolls that were with you in that cave?

OOOOOR we could like, sneak the box into their clearing and run away. Watch from a great distance to see what happens when they open it.

>>385599
Uh... no, let's not do that. The box might be a phylactery and some lich will be let loose, and then it'll kill us after murderlizing the humans. It might not just be a curse that kills stuff near it- it might be a nigh-invincible undead creature or something.

>>385608
Possibly, but it could also be something very good. The construct may have been lying. After all, he knew he couldn't physically stop us from opening the box, so he did the best he could: He tried to persuade us that it was in our best interests to keep it closed. He may have openly admitting to us that we could beat him in a fight in order to gain our trust and make it more likely that he'd be believed when he told us the box is bad for us. Protecting the box was more important to him than protecting his own (un)life.

Ooooor he might have told the truth. Whatcha gonna do?

Having a small, preferably weak group of our enemies open the box might be an easy way around our dilemma. If the contents are evil, we can leave the poor schmucks to take care of it themselves. If the contents are good, we can immediately rush in and reclaim it.

The only ways I can see this backfiring are 1. If the thing turns out to be bad for the whole world (i.e. some apocalyptic creature or plague) or 2. If the contents are good and our enemies somehow manage to keep us from reclaiming said contents.

I still think the have-other-people-open-it idea is a good one.

Eh, true, but constructs tend to be honest, from what little I recall of CheeQuest. They don't really have the imagination for a direct lie, so they just try not to tell you things.

We may not want to rely on that, given that my memory of CheeQuest isn't too good and that this might be a smarter kind of construct.

I suggest we roll something to decide what to do. There's too much uncertainty for us to definitively decide what to do, being paranoid about stuff like this and all. I'm not sure exactly how to roll, though.

Or we could try and learn more about this before we try.

>>385611
Both good ideas. I wouldn't mind learning more about it, but I'm afraid that would either mean leaving it unguarded (or lightly guarded) while we search or lugging it around with us. If we can find another way to get away with it, that might be the best option.

Also,

>Wonderin' if it ain't gonna come back and bite me
Meh, it might try, but you can still deal with it. You'll just have to keep on your toes. You can do that, can't you Clamp?

We should get a priest or healer. Hire 'em using funds. Maybe a few actually. Just undead fighters in general. Maybe go buy a enchanted weapon cursed with healing. Should be cheap since it would defeat the purpose fighting anything other than an undead.

I distrust the creepy death robot. Open the box immediately.

Clamp 2012/02/10(Fri)15:10 No. 385648 ID: d6af4f
File 132891540091.png - (127.40KB , 700x700 , 32.png )

>"Chief, chief! How'd you stand up to that thing?! It coulda killed us all! It was terrifying!" the one with the broken ear says.
"Idiot, it said it couldn't beat us. Like hell I'd be afraid of somethin' that first says 'I can't win."

>"Still a nervy show, boy."
"Quit callin me that, Redsteel. An' it was just a pile of bones. Ain't somethin' to be afraid of."
>"Tell 'at to the rest of 'em back at the trees. They wanna get outta here, pronto. Say it's no good, we can't fight magic an' stuff."
"Didn't know I was the leader of sissies."
>"Wouldn't worry about it yet, they're all impressed how you stood up to it, too. But we all know we're in some dire straights, here. A few murmurs of desertion here and there."

>"AMBUSH!"
Shit, already, back at the treeline. Gotta worry about whether or not to open the box later.

>>385648
Get back there and aid your men.

>>385648
Rig the last box latch with a rope real quick and toss it at the enemies. Then rope it open. ???. Profit!

>>385663
Interesting. Doing this to hostile gnolls avoids the moral quandaries involved in doing it to neutral humans. I vote for either this idea or some variation of it.

>>385648
An ambush so soon might point to some scheming from the necromancer... In any case, it's most likely the clan these guys with the box came from.

Consider flanking them if you have the troops. If not, rush to support the gnolls who cried for help.

The necromancer WANTS us to fight, so if there's any way you can get them to surrender and aid you, it's probably a good idea.

Alternatively, if you REALLY want to set up the box as a trap that you can spring on enemy gnolls, that ~might~ be a good idea...

I'm all for talking to the humans after this, creepy or no.

Here's a horrible thought, now that you know for sure there's a necromancer in play: It's a better than even money bet the necro's lackeys have been shufflin' 'round the forest, diggin' up fresh graves. So he's been collectin' your dead clan-mates, and all the corpses of those ambushers you've been killin'. You might have to start doing unpleasant things to the fallen to make them unusable as necromancer fodder. Just something to think about.

For now, regroup with your clan, and make a big push to get away quick. Is this alcove a part of an embankment? If it is, group next to the embankment so you only have one side facing the ambushers, and push along it.
Once you lose the ambushers, can you get on top of the alcove's embankment? That way you could look down into the alcove to see what the ambushers do with the box.

1/3 Clamp 2012/02/10(Fri)20:36 No. 385706 ID: d6af4f
File 132893497667.png - (106.38KB , 700x700 , 33.png )

>>385683
Damn. I'm gonna have to burn the dead, from now on. That should work. If it doesn't, then ain't a thing I can do.

"Fight' em back to the alcove! Leaf, give me your rope!"

>"What are you doing?! Help out, damnit! Forget the box!" Grasswind yells.


>Throw box
Easy enough, there were a few that were comin' straight for me an' the box!

2/3 Clamp 2012/02/10(Fri)20:36 No. 385707 ID: d6af4f
File 132893499043.png - (92.54KB , 700x700 , 34.png )

>Open box with rope

3/3 Clamp 2012/02/10(Fri)20:37 No. 385708 ID: d6af4f
File 132893502098.png - (118.75KB , 700x700 , 35.png )

>"HSSSS"
>"AAAHH IT'S ON MY NECK!!"

>>385708
"get eaten" is what the punching bag was going to say before he was killed, I guess.

Tell your men to try to stay away from the thing that came out, and to let it eat our enemies. Or drink their blood- is that a vampire, perhaps?

Oh. Vampires. Wonderful.

Hey uh, run.

>>385707
Wait, what, why would you do that, we told you not to do that yet/at all--
>>385625
God damn it. Also you, but that's irrelevant and too late now.

Try to see what exactly it is as you run like a sissy little girl. We might be able to tell you its weaknesses.

>>385708
:3
Vampires oh joy! They're vulnerable to burning, sunlight, flowing water, garlic, decapitations and a steak to the heart! Well, that depends on the universe it's in and if it's really a vampire instead of a similar creature that sucks blood. I only hope it isn't an antediluvian or similarly ancient vampire.

Your going to have to definitely decapitate, stake or burn that one gnolls corpse after it's done with him. Or we'll have a vampire gnoll or ghoul on our hands! Is the vampire in the sunlight? We'll determine what kind of vampire it is from it's reaction. If you have any archers, tell 'em to aim for the heart with wooden points instead of normal metal or to pin it down in the sun!

Oh, great... That bonehead construct was tellin' the truth about the box.

If this vamp was in that box for a long time, it's going to be in full-on bloodlust mode; There'll be no reasonin' with it. So, try and get your enemies in between it and you, and watch it from afar. You may be able to speak to it after it drains these ambushers.

>>385717
I forgot to add that if it sparkles run for your life because those are not real vampires and are not vulnerable to any of the above. In fact, they are basically immortal. They're a parody of vampires that are far more similar to golems that crave blood

Ey, Clamp, start diggin' around in that thick 'ead of yours for folklore about vampires. Yer gonna need all of it damn soon.

Oh jesus oh christ. Sword the vampire to re-dead!

This is what you get for not listening to the polite undead constructs. Impolite ones.

Think of it like worse than harpies.

It is apparently attacking with its teeth. Decapitation should slow it down at the very least.

Oh, I had another idea. You could call out to the thing, saying that if they like eating him, they can eat any gnolls that have that type of earring on.

We should make an effort to make it look like we're its master, in other words.

yeah, "i have set you free, so you owe me a little"

Don't expect that gnoll that got fang'd to just easily drop dead. It could end up fighting for the vamp as a thrall. Which would make things oh so much worse.

Quick question, Clamp: How big was that box, compared to hissy-face that popped out? 'Cause there might just be more than one of those horrors in there. Hell, it could be a frickin' clown-crate of fangy undead.

Gotta wonder about what a necromancer is doing collectin' such nasty creatures.

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/10(Fri)22:41 No. 385733 ID: d6af4f
File 132894251189.png - (124.73KB , 700x700 , 36.png )

>Folklore about vampire
Lessee.. burns in daylight.. hates garlic.. onions too? Dunno. Uh... religious... things... blood sucking and monsterish lookin'.

... an' whatever that girl is, only has the blood suckin' bit down. That ain't a vampire.

>>385729
The box was big 'nuff to fit more, but that's the only one that fell out. Looks like it had a roomy box to sleep in.

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/10(Fri)22:42 No. 385734 ID: d6af4f
File 132894252060.png - (136.07KB , 700x700 , 37.png )

>"What are you?! What'd you - you sucked his blood?!"
>"I'm a vampire, fool peasant! If you relent, I shall feed off of you in non-fatal morsels! And perhaps if you are strong enough, you will have the honor of being my slave. That is more than could be said for this passed out knave."

Huh. So much for the sunlight bit. Now then, gotta wonder if I should approach it. The ambush ended quick as always. Enemy gnolls are either dead, runnin', or outta the picture.

"you, a vampire? i could of sworn it was day right now" look up "yep, day" "so tell me what you REALLY are and i wont put you back in the box"

>>385734
Oh sweet, she's not berserk. Well, toss her the skull of the golem thingy. Inform her that sorry, princess, but she's got some really big enemies who had her chained up in a box and she might want to thing about toning it down a little unless she wants you to leave her to her fate. You've got enemies in common and you're her only potential friends.

Oh, and you'll kick her ass if she bites one of your people without permission, but she can keep Juicebox over there. You might even be nice and grab her a villager or two.

>>385740
Oh, and give her the dead enemy gnolls, like the one you cut in half, to take off the edge of her hunger.

I like making it look like the necromancers are her enemies, but on the other hand... maybe she already spoke to them?

Aw to hell with it. If she likes the necromancers she'll find out eventually that we're fighting them. Better for her to find out now while we have her surrounded.

So let's go on and tell her our 'best guess' about the situation. That the necromancers probably wanted to enslave her.

"or me and my clan could rush you and tear you to shreds, or at least injury you enough that the necromancer who shoved you into that box can recapture you. though frankly I would rather you go your way and I go mine. "

>>385746
Nah.

We want to work together to FUCK THAT ASSHOLE UP.

Clamp 2012/02/11(Sat)00:30 No. 385758 ID: d6af4f
File 132894900369.png - (125.11KB , 1000x700 , 38.png )

"'ey, girl with the appetite."
>"Who dares refer to me as such?!"
"Standin' right in front of you. You a vampire? Cause it looks like day-time to me."
>"Fool peasant. I have the power and the magic to beat even the sun."
"Looks like you had some big enemies lockin' you up, princess. This skeleton ring any bells?"
>"Overgrown oaf. I was being transported, those 'enemies' who locked me up are the very ones are the very ones I am to be in contact with, and you are holding the skull of my ally. I was told the gnolls here were controlled. I should kill you here, but before I do, I give you permission to submit and serve me."

hmmm, the necromancer might have cut a deal where he forces the local gnoll populace into submission to the vampire in exchange for something. odd that he seems to also be reducing it the number of gnolls in the area. sending them to ambush you unsupported would wear you down eventually, but one large ambush supported by undead would work far quickly and likely without killing a good chunk of the gnoll population. maybe the deal is the vampire gets the living and the necromancer gets the dead?

also please not that while the vampire can magically sheld itself from the sun it still needed to be transported. so it is possible that it can only block the sun for a limited time, or that it has some other difficulty traveling.

>>385758
Tell her that if she kills you, the necromancers would be very unhappy. So she should just leave.

"Yeah, allies that lock you in a box then chain it shut from the outside. Pull the other one, it's got bells on".

"the necro told me that my soul is VERY valuable, kill me and it would result in them getting angry at you."

Fighting her now is probably be better than fighting her once she has joined up with her necromancer ally. I also suspect that she is not as good at countering daylight as she says, given that she travels sealed in a box.

Still, if we can get a few questions answered before fighting that could be useful. A question to start out with would be why the necromancer imported her when he seems the type to want to control everything himself.

>>385761
oh yeah that too.

Yeah... how about no? Seriously, if it's not one undead, it's another. It's getting ridiculous. Still she is a vampire. They tend to be pretty strong, do magic and a whole bunch of other things, but they are still a physical creature for the most part.

Dismembering limbs, busting in her teeth with your hilt, pommel or the flat of your blade, that sort of stuff can work if you are strong enough(and you are strong enough), just don't look into her eyes(hypnotic gaze in some cases), guard your neck, main arteries and vitals if she moves in close, and the moment she tries anything the least bit magicy in terms of speech or movements, give her a few stabs. If she's the type that turns into mist and returns to her coffin, I think the box is serving as it for now. After that, stab through the heart, cut off her head, set her on fire and bake the remains in the sun. Then throw the remains in a running river.

She thinks we are an idiot and likely doesn't consider us a major threat. The moment she sounds like she'll be hostile, move in before she can react. Possibly mid-speech since she looks like a talker.

>>385760
See, the problem with that is that she might come hunt at our village, and that'd be bad.

Get her talking. She seems stuck-up... maybe apologize for the misunderstanding, and ask to whom you would be pledging you allegiance. She probably won't resist talking about herself.

While she's talking, go for the surprise attack as soon as she blinks, looks away, etc. And definitely keep >>385768 in mind.

Clamp, you know you're not the quick and agile type, so if you're going to attack, first make sure that fang-face here knows the necro wants you alive with your soul inside. Just in the likely case you can't get a crippling hit in; She probably has supernatural senses and speed and who knows what.

When you do make your move, move like you're sheathing your sword, and toss her the skull, with a quip that she can return that to her contact. Then swing that blade 'round at full speed and torso height.

>>385758
"Who told you the gnolls were 'controlled'? What kinda ally would try to feed you that horse shit?
Just who are you, anyway?"

Clamp 2012/02/11(Sat)03:33 No. 385798 ID: d6af4f
File 132896000945.png - (138.85KB , 700x700 , 39.png )

"Yeah, allies that put you in a box with outside latches. Who'd I be pledging my allegiance to, anyway? Who're you?"
>"You would do well to address me as Madame Lazinia. You would serve me directly under me directly, and obey orders from me and me alone, not even by those I may serve, not even the Lich Prince Lokirm."
"Speakin' of allies, that necromancer told me my soul was real valuable. Who told you the gnolls were controlled, anyway?"
>"That does not matter. You must be the mange known as Clamp."
"Th'hells with everyone knowin' my name? I ain't 'surrendering' to you."
>"You have a big reputation, fuzzball, and now that I know you, I pull back my option for your submission. I will give you an option, instead. Your clan will be slain, if not by me, then by all the gnolls of this land, if not by the gnolls of the land, then by all the humans under our sway, and if not by all the humans under our sway, then the hordes of monsterous beasts, abominations and constructs we hold at our beck and call. I give you the option to abandon your clan, that way they may live, and will otherwise be wittled away from you piece by piece. If you are a leader who cares the least for his clan, you will allow them life. I will explain nothing more to you."

>>385798
"...Hmph. Maybe. But let me say that, no matter what, your damn attitude can go eat a dick, and if you call me 'fuzzball' again, I'll personally force-feed it."

>>385798
This doesn't add up. If they have all those numbers, why haven't they attacked en masse already? Why all the ambushing? Why whittle away your forces, if they're so strong? Ambushes are what you do when you have an inferior or equal force, not a vastly superior force. It's what you do when you don't have the strength for a head-on confrontation.

And how can we trust these guys to keep their side of the bargain? If I were them, I would never consider that a clan whose leader martyred themselves is not a threat. No, they'd kill your clan after you left it.

What we need to do is increase our numbers, then fortify.

Oh yeah also kill the vampire.

>>385798
Snap her neck.

Alright, that sounds like complete and utter bull. First off, a large army that size could crush anything in it's path in a heart beat. One soul can't make that up unless the soul is key to that army. You go with her, she gets that key, and that army becomes self fulfilling. Hell, I don't even think you can trust her. Bat Bitch probably thinks all gnolls look alike.

Likewise, the other gnolls are afraid of her and her ilk. Kill her and make them more afraid of you than them and not only could you unify the gnolls, but you also kick that necromancer in the shin by taking away some of his men.

Remember, use the methods I explained here >>385768 and feel free to stab her in the chest, chop off her head or what have you while you talk mid sentence.

She's just posturing. All this chitchat sums up to "Surrender or Die! Wait, you 're Clamp? leave or they die!"

Frankly, I think they're afraid of you in some level and don't have the numbers she boasts about. But if they're not holding back, neither should we; time to start liberating the other gnoll clans from their influence.

About her, I'd stuff her back into the box. If we come to kill her, remember to set the body on fire and separate head from neck first. Full dismemberment is also recommended; we're dealing with magic, we have no idea of how much damage she can survive, so we should deal as much as possible.

>>385801
Are you seriously going to shove the second most sensitive portion of your anatomy into a fanged maw that just LOVES to suck blood? I'm assuming that was a joke.

Anyways, odds are your soul is needed to unleash the army or pay it or whatever. Anywhichway, I smell a rat. Start hurting the vampire and see how she copes.

(Most sensitive is your eye, if you were wondering. Gently touch your genitals- no real reaction. Try to gently touch your eye- unless you've done this a lot and suppressed the reflex, your eyelid will spasm closed and your head might jerk back.)

>>385817
For that reason I speculate that vampires are great at oral. They probably playfully bite. That place gets a lot of blood so they don't need to bite hard, it's probably much less painful then a piercing!
Imply this to her. I would like to see her reaction.

>>385822
Hm... maybe if she's consenting, otherwise she'd probably just enjoy herself some gnoll kielbasa. And yeah, implying this would probably be funny, but right now the mood isn't exactly joking. I'm sure we'll see her again, we can use that as a taunt next time. Or right now, if we start a fight.

>>385825
Lame, I want to carry out thoughtful conversation now. She's not going to kill us and now I am too curious about vampire culture and sexual performance. Because lord knows Vampires most known trait, third to their blood-sucking and second to their weaknesses, is their sexuality and the fact that they are all notorious whores. She has Madame in her title for gods sake, that's the top rank for a prostitute. She runs a vampire brothel.

She ain't fighting now and Clamp is attractively ripped. I suggest sexy diplomacy... if Clamp and the matron has an open relationship of course. If not, Clamp, get your clan's best manwhore over here and tell him to give her a good night. Don't underestimate the power of sex, the only reason we can't buy our Lich enemy off with it is because he sacrificed that shit for power. Which is laaaaaaaame.

yeah this whole "I'll spare your clan if you join me" schtick is complete bullshit

Undead don't give a shit about anyone, you're magic soul is probably the only thing saving your clan, to abandon them would be to doom them all.

kill this bitch, and kill her quick

Kill the vampire, rip off it's head.

I just can't see Clamp making any choice buy

'yeah, naw, fuck yer shit.'

And proceeding to give her THE CLAMP

Turn her into vampire dust. Then use her for alchemy.

Snort vampire dust, become invisible.

No one is even going to try making her an ally? Seriously? She's dispassionate, yes, but more sway-able than a lich. We make her our ally, we learn everything.

Please, James Bond this vampire Clamp!

>>385852
But there are no martinis in a zillion-mile radius because they haven't be invented yet!

What do we do? WHAT DO WE DO?

>>385840
Dare I ask what THE CLAMP is?

A particularly violent method of execution? A forbidden torture?

...his penis?

they keep harping on how your clan stands no chance, how they can so easily reach out and crush it, now normally that would be believable. you clan is a rather small power in the grand scheme of things. however if they really could just kill you and yours they would have done so already. they keep coming at you sideways, and in small ambushes trying to wear you down over time. if they have enough forces to simply crush you they must have some reason that they can not or will not bring such forces to bear. if we can figure out what that reason is we might have a chance.

>>385856
Sounds more like a horrible STD, to me.

So, something like, "Hmph. Bring all that if you got it, and I'll leave then. So far, I ain't seen much at all of this big army of yours. And I don't much like getting chased out of what's mine.

"Might as well say, 'Leave that lich of yours, and I'll let you come with us.' Don't taste so good from that end, does it, missy?"

1/3 Clamp 2012/02/11(Sat)13:42 No. 385877 ID: d6af4f
File 132899656828.png - (59.88KB , 700x700 , 40.png )

>sexsexsexoralvampiresexytime

She might look more ladylike than I thought vampires'd be, but I don't have much taste for she-bitches, an' I don't trust those fangs 'round my clan.

"Ya wanna tell me why yer not sendin' out yer whole army at me ins-"
>"Idiot, I just said I would explain nothing more."
"Then how bout you leave yer Lich and come with us."
>"Hahaha, mutt! You can't be seri-"

Din't think that'd work anyway.

2/3 Clamp 2012/02/11(Sat)13:43 No. 385878 ID: d6af4f
File 132899658285.png - (122.22KB , 700x700 , 41.png )

>Kill her

3/3 Clamp 2012/02/11(Sat)13:44 No. 385880 ID: d6af4f
File 132899668320.png - (143.43KB , 700x700 , 42.png )

>"I will take that as refusing my suggestion like a foolish, bladder diseased dog."

Looks like she can turn herself into mist, damnit!

>>385880

Don't let it get on your arm!

Quick everyone start waving around improvised fans!

Yeah, starting to hate her a bit. Seems she has at least that ability, but mist form isn't exactly a offensive move. Sure she can avoid sword blows, but she cannot cast, cannot bite, or fight in this form. If she doesn't flee, she will likely attack so stay on your guard. Same for your clan.

Wait, do you have flasks of water? Considering you likely get thirsty on your patrols, water is a must. Why I am asking this is because even in mist form, a vampire would still have their weaknesses. This includes running water. Running water includes, streams, rivers, rain and splashing water from your water skin at her face. At the very least it will surprise her and that's all you need.

She will likely try to kill a clan mate to prove a point, so you may want to inform them of this tactic since if they just try to attack her, she may just turn to mist and let the friendly fire hit. Of course you could call her out by calling her a bat bitch, but that's your choice.

This is why I go for diplomacy first if I see it as an option. Because fighting vampires is more than a bitch than sleeping with a bitch.

Clamp, try and find a way to go into berserk mode. Tap into your inner rage. Try punching yourself in the balls. Yell to your clanmates to light you both on fire. This way, if you die, they don't get your corpse and it will be this vampire bitch's fault which means bad mama jama to her from her allies.

Why was she in a box if she can be out in daylight? Maybe it slowly weakens her or something. >>385882 Or maybe she has to be in one to cross running water.

>>385883
How about we not have him go berserk when the only people around he can hurt currently are his allies?

blow on your arm to blow the mist away.

>>385889
Warn them to beat it and track him down later. Problem solved.

>>385880
Get your people back to back. You have any gods? Praying may help.

1/3 Clamp 2012/02/11(Sat)17:58 No. 385912 ID: d6af4f
File 132901188068.png - (139.06KB , 700x700 , 43.png )

>Inner rage/gods
Spent years gettin' that under control. Ain't so easy to happen anymore. Ain't got any gods, either.

Goddamn it's fast. I left water back with the supplies, I got none on me.

"Leaf, light us on fire! Everyone else, back to back!"

>"I will leave the curse of fangs on you, foul smelling chief, but know that today is the day that Madame Lazinia could have slain you inst--"

2/3 Clamp 2012/02/11(Sat)17:58 No. 385913 ID: d6af4f
File 132901188928.png - (144.87KB , 700x700 , 44.png )

WHOMP

3/3 Clamp 2012/02/11(Sat)17:58 No. 385914 ID: d6af4f
File 132901190369.png - (108.09KB , 700x700 , 45.png )

>"Today is the day I could have slain you, beast! I hope the lich removes your skin before your soul! Pray I do not find you at night, where the sun and fire will not help you!"

>"Do you still want that fire, boss?"
"Nah, she's leavin. Don't think she managed to curse me either. She didn't get her fangs in, like it looked she was tryin' to. Shiiit. Felt like I hit her pretty hard, but it's gonna be a bitch fightin' her."

Check the bit you hit her with for fang marks and blood, just in case.

>>385914
Right. Now, you have a serious fucking decision to make here. You can cut all the gnolls you want in half- you're amazing at that. You're CLAMP.

But.

Magic. Who do you know that can protect you or your clan against magic?

>>385914
Yell to her that fire still burns just as bad at night as it does in day. She has terrible logic. Thought vampires were supposed to be smart.

Give the chief reigns to Red Steel or Leaf though for now. All temporary like. For further ambushes have them shout that Clamp isn't here and has gone somewhere else, there's no point to ambushing them anymore. that they are all just going to keep getting killed for nothing. We're going on a pilgrimage to find the best way to kill a lich and figure out what's up with your soul for realsies. Make a point that if anyone tries overthrowing Leaf or Steel that they'll be dealing with your full fury when you get back. If you can take a clan once, you can take it back again later.

Now lets see, who would we know that could help us fight a lich and know souls. Another lich, the god of chaos, or we could go to a town that would allow gnolls in that has good scholars in them.

>>385918
there's a gnoll arch-mage you may have heard about.

Her name is Fireclaw.

>>385918
Get some Dwarfen Atomsmashers, and make miniature portable versions. This will surely work.

>>385916
Seconding this.

Damn, Clamp, you've got a good start on a powerful enemies collection. First a lich prince and his necromancers, and now a vampire; "Lucky" you.

You just know that bat-bitch is going to pop up at the worst time. Either she's going to concoct some intricate plan for retribution, or just swoop back at nightfall and kill your clan. Depends on if she's the plotting type or not.

Speaking of nightfall, how much daylight do you have left? You're going to have to find a place to overnight that's vamp-mist proof, and that's a tall order around these parts. Check if there's anything interesting in the vampire's box, then get movin'.

OK, long term plans time. You're in over your head here, Clamp. It's gone all magic-shaped; Necro-magic-shaped, which is the worst shape. You need people that know how to fight this, such as:
Paladins (which aren't anywhere near.)
Healing mages (which are closer, but still not nearby.)
Vampire hunters (which may not even exist.)

Shorter term plan is to hunt down another clan and capture one or two of them for interrogation; Figure out if they're fighting 'cause they're cursed, threatened, or bribed. Then from there how to turn them into allies.

Right now we should stabilize the situation. We basically gave the lich a BIG middle finger some are likely scared, but any of those ambushers left may actually be willing to not fight us. We dealt a vampire a bloody(hah) nose. That would definitely set you as someone to not mess with.

Also, best to get prepared for undead. A mace, a water skin, torch and some silver can go a long ways, but we should try and deal with the problems here first before moving. Humans and gnolls are under their sway right? Best deal with them before going on a quest of any sort.
Besides, sometimes what we need is right under our nose.

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/11(Sat)19:14 No. 385936 ID: d6af4f
File 132901644489.png - (98.79KB , 700x700 , 46.png )

>"Geez boss, how do you keep standin' against those things?! We're gonna die, aren't we?!" some gnoll I forget the name of says.
"Shut it, sick n' tired of you guys pissin' yer skirts over bones and girls."

>385920
Yeah, fire burns just as much at night, dunno what she's on about. Gotta think about where to get some magic to fight with, before I consider leavin' someone in charge, depends where I go.

"Leaf, we got any silver?"
>"Sorry boss, never had much need."

May as well carry some water, alcohol, and some flint n' metal around wherever I go now.

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/11(Sat)19:14 No. 385937 ID: d6af4f
File 132901645155.png - (106.70KB , 700x700 , 47.png )

>>385916
Nah, looks clean. Probly caught her by surprise.

A gnoll arch-mage sounds real handy and real improbable. I ain't heard of any Fireclaw, an' I think I woulda heard o' one by now if any real competent gnoll mages existed.

Only magic places I know of.. humans. They're close by, and they ain't exactly friendly.
Harpies know some. I ain't even considerin' them. A kobold group to the west practices it. Couple week trip tops, probably have gnolls nippin' my heels the whole way over. Ain't a place I ever thought I'd see again, real secretive and all that.
Hell, elves, n' dwarves got some too, I'm sure, but I'd sooner throw my pot in with the humans. Oh, and I heard legends that kobolds to the east once had some lich run in's, but those tales were from centuries ago. Could just be regular 3 foot high weaklins, now.
Lotta these locations are farther than I'd like, but I ain't gonna complain over somethin' like that. As for non magic numbers, I could try forcin' some other gnoll clans under my thumb.
Fer now, the dungeon where I once was held in by harpies ain't too far away, we can get there before nightfall.

Humans and that dungeon are likely your best bet at the moment. Dwarves are pretty secure and they will be far too tough to get a hold of and elves would be elves and do nothing even if we limbo through their elf laws.

Though if the dungeon is such a place that it held you... then maybe we can use some stuff there?

Fireclaw lives about three universes to the left and square root of negative 1 to the wuffle, don't think reaching her is feasible. the humans are the closet but possibly the least likely to help, how much time would you lose if you went to the human town before going to the kobolds in the west?

>>385937
Ask that guy in the armor what he was grinning about back there, anyway.

IMO we should check out the kobolds to the east.

>>385943
I vote east too
(Kip should be there. He'll be a cool bro to catch up with. We might get the gang back together sans the kobolds, Tom and Minci. Looks like Ears might get liberated again soon too, what with another conflict with the pointy faced lich. Yeeeeeessss)

OK, even if you can't get the big anti-necromancy forces out here, even a little healing magic would allow you to check for necromantic constructs and vamps.

Get to that dungeon and plug up the entrance completely. Maybe block up the tunnel into the deep. Make sure at least three of your clan-mates are watching over your clan at all times.

Camping in the dungeon for the night might be a good idea. It'd give you a better position to defend from and make it harder for the vampire, the skeletal construct, the necromancer, and the other gnolls to ambush you (Try to stop making enemies, btw. You've got plently.).

Afterwards, I vote western kobolds. Remove the artifact, have access to mages. Kill two birds with one stone. That, and you might be able to use the artifact against your enemies.

Wherever you camp, be sure to have multiple fires going. Just in case.

Make a roarin' fire inside the dungeon entrance, and get torches, or materials to make torches. If you have to retreat into the Deep from this dungeon, you're going to need them. Water and rations too... How adverse are you to butchering those ambushers, literally, for food?

Think twice about heading west to the kobold fortress right away. Instead of the lich's gaze being split, it's going to focus down onto that one point. You don't want to drop that on the kobolds before they're ready. Can you get a message to them first, if you do choose to go there?

Let's go to the kobolds we already know.

1/3 Clamp 2012/02/12(Sun)03:34 No. 386010 ID: d6af4f
File 132904647140.png - (218.12KB , 700x700 , 48.png )

Gotta burn the bodies before we leave. Butcherin' the bodies too. Don't care much for cannibalism, but we gotta make do.

2/3 Clamp 2012/02/12(Sun)03:34 No. 386011 ID: d6af4f
File 132904648598.png - (156.49KB , 700x700 , 49.png )

'nother ambush, bout halfway to the dungeon. Nother body burnin'.

3/3 Clamp 2012/02/12(Sun)03:35 No. 386012 ID: d6af4f
File 132904653869.png - (157.71KB , 700x700 , 50.png )

>Several fires
>Sealed off entrances

>"How many do we have left, Clamp?"
"Bout 25, plus a dozen on other missions. Had a few deaths, an' had a few run away after that undead business."

Went straight to the back room for some privacy to think. Real nostalgic place, made it just before night fell. I'll talk to my clanmates soon, see what the mood is. Lotta different thoughts bouncing around. Humans ain't too far, it wouldn't waste too much time goin' to them. Lessee.

Vampira said the humans were influenced as well. Coulda been a bluff, but I don't think the bit about the gnolls gettin' controlled was, so controllin' humans could be true. Don't much care for my chances if it's true. Hell, don't care much for my chances if it's NOT true; ain't an easy thing gettin' out of human city walls once yer hunted inside, if shit starts driftin' downwind.

Think I'll go to either of the 'bolds, leanin' towards the western ones. First, gotta think, am I gonna stop off at the humans, and if so, do I bring my clan, or go it alone...

>>386012
Ah, so the Matron is with you. She's good at thinkin'. Maybe we can share our thoughts with her.

Personally I think going *anywhere* alone is suicide. All it'd take is one necromancer construct to take you out. You saw what happened to that guy who you were interrogating- they could do that to you and it'd be all over.

So if we do visit the humans, it'll be with a group. If they are NOT on the necros' side, then we might be able to get some aid... I dunno, it's a gamble. Personally I think it'd be a little weird for necro-allies to set up a permanent settlement right there so close to human land. They PROBABLY aren't working against us.

On the other hand, they're making a permanent settlement. What makes us think they'll be willing to move or spare forces to help us? The best we could get is advice from a human mage. Wait no, the best we could get is them sending a message to paladins to come help or somet- hahahaha no paladins probably won't help us. They probably think all gnolls are evil, just like they think all kobolds are. Of course they're kindof right aren't they? You're a vicious brute. There's evil in you, and you're one of the most kind-hearted gnolls I've seen. ...Hilt might be considered a Good gnoll though...

Anyway, probably no paladin help. Still, them sending a message for aid could work in our favor, if we get some less lawful-stupid people answering the call. This is the best-case scenario. Even then we'd have to WAIT for the help, and would they let us wait in their camp? Seems unlikely! Hmm. Maybe YOU could stay at the camp, and the clan could stay elsewhere, allowing the humans to take the heat for a while.

There are a lot of ways this could go. Worst case scenario, they turn out to be necromancer-allies and attack. We'd lose a bunch of gnolls from that, I think.

...hey, if they were allied with the necromancers, why have an illusion up? I'm betting they're just here to kill gnolls, using the illusion as bait. So the best way to approach them is to look like we have the advantage but aren't pressing it. Perhaps by sneaking through their guard and finding someone important. Then being very obvious about not killing them.

>>386012
Send your clan to meet-up with Shabin and the other kobolds. It ain't much, but it's better for 'em to live with kobolds than die off, or be lich slaves.
Go to the kobolds that fought liches. They're not gonna throw their lot in with these undead that easily.

Considered finding the other clans and beating the crap out of their leaders to take control over them? You gotta replenish your numbers somehow, and if all those other gnolls are gonna try and find you, you might as well find them FIRST. That is, find their leaders and beat the crap out of them, so you scare the others into accepting you as their leader, since gnolls are such pussies (even when you're living proof they aren't).

Or something.

Hell, if humans and monsters and other things are gonna come for you, the least you could do is get control over -one- of the factions gunning for your head. Getting some magic support won't be a bad idea either.

You can't stay in gnoll territory, even to head west to Shabin and the kobold fortress, or east into the draconic kobold lands. Your clan'll be whittled down to nothin' by death and desertion. As much as you're reluctant of the idea, you're going to have to head into the human lands and work your way from there.

However, there's a problem with going to any of the border cities and towns; They're the most likely to have their authorities subverted by the Lich Prince Lokirm. The mayor, city council, captain of the guard, guild masters, top level mages, maybe even major clergy; They're all prime targets for Lokirm. Roll the dice, get the wrong one, and it's all over. Your clan'll be wiped out, and you'll be caged and served up to the lich on a silver platter. You'd have to know more about the head honchos before even thinking about approaching one of them.

So that leaves the countryside. Think you lot could slip between the settlements, sneak through their territory, and lay low for any length of time? If you could, it would give you time to nab one or two humans to interrogate about any necromantic goings on, and any response from the authorities would take longer to get out there. The downside is that you're going to be in not-hostile-but-pretty-close-to-it territory, with no known good places to hold up against a vampire or other necro-wotzit showing up, and no good knowledge of the lay of the land. However, it would get the other gnoll clans off your back, unless the lich has its claws in 'em deep they'll chase you over the border.

Hmmm... If you do eventually negotiate with the humans, maybe Matron could be your clan's speaker. Her "daintyness" might put them more at ease than... well... you. Well, you'll cross that bridge when you get to it.

>>386027
Try going for just one, on the way to the human lands. At the very least you could knock what's got the clans under the the lich's thumb out of one of their thick skulls.

Let's go with joining up with our only allies we can be certain of, the kobolds. If we're discrete about it we can keep their cave hidden from all these damn necromancers and gnolls, plus we know they have some decent mages among them. I'm sure they could also use the boost in man power and we could try to bring them lots of wanted commodities, like real weapons and tools.

>>386017
This gave me an interesting thought regarding the western kobolds. Their cave complex is damn near impregnable, assuming our enemies can even find it in the first place! One (or two) more reason(s) to go there.

Oh, and give your wife a quick smooch to let her know you love her. :3 And try to be sweet about it.

...can gnolls be sweet?

>>386106
Smooching is a bit much, considering the dire circumstances, but snuggling wouldn't be a bad idea. It's been a trying bunch of days, and just being here with your mate, safe for a bit, that feels alright.

...Bet you wish you could just hand chief-hood to the next upstart pup and walk away... But that won't happen, 'cause you're you. If need be, you'll fight to the bitter end. Now you need to find the way that doesn't go there.

>>386117
Surely a quick peck on the cheek won't hurt. You could snuggle and kiss! :3c

Might not want to let the other gnolls see you though, if you don't want your manhood doubted.

...ah, screw it, loving your spouse is manly, whether it's acknowledged or not. And noble, to boot! Let 'em see. You want your kids to learn to be loving and kind to their own spouses, right?

>>386120
Well, hold it until after you've thought up a plan. You don't want to give Matron the impression you're trying to distract yourself 'cause you've got no clue what to do next.

Clamp 2012/02/12(Sun)18:36 No. 386124 ID: d6af4f
File 132910058876.png - (65.80KB , 700x700 , 51.png )

>Share thoughts with Matron

"'Ey, I'm thinkin' of going to the western kobolds. Eastern ones might have the proven record, but west ones have the proven relations. They got a nice fort, know some magic, I jus' don't wanna thrust our problems on 'em an' Shabin. What do ya think?"
>"They sent a note about a necromancer, as well, didn't they? This likely involves them as much as it does us. You wouldn't be thrusting our problems on the kobolds, we'd be sharing each others problems. I've been wondering, though, can we trust everyone? A few of your oldest loyalists, and even Redsteel, I couldn't imagine betraying us, but what about everyone else? Grasswind, for instance, is still bitter about you killing Wind, unlike greysteel. Talon might get uppity now and again, but I think he's loyal as long as you can beat him. I can't say the same for everyone. If we intend on keeping the kobold fort a secret, then perhaps we should only bring the most loyal?"

>snuggumkissums
Ain't in the mood.

>>386124
Take a few loyalists to the fort, keep the strongest loyalists here to keep order though. Whoever's the most useful in the ambushes defiantly has to stay.

I suggest a team of three. We don't know your men as well as you do, so you're going to have to pick 'em Clamp.

leaving anyone behind would be their death sentance.

you don't want to start a witch hunt, stick together, and travel strong as a united clan

You can't let anyone stay here, but you can't take everyone with you, either.

Here's what you do. Tell all the gnolls that you have a plan, but that it'll get you deeper into this necromancer business (that's true). Give each gnoll the option to leave the clan (temporarily or permanently) and find someplace safe to stay if he/she wants to. Disloyal gnolls will remove themselves, saving you the work. What's more, they'll be much safer when they're away from you and this necromancer business, perhaps safely hidden away in a place of their own choosing.

The gnolls that are loyal enough to be trusted with knowledge of the kobold camp will stick by you.

In short, the sorting of troops will be done for you and you won't have to worry about the safety of the gnolls you leave behind.

Clamp 2012/02/12(Sun)20:39 No. 386145 ID: d6af4f
File 132910796463.png - (151.68KB , 700x700 , 52.png )

"Alright, pups. Gather up."

>"Hey, boss, uh, no hard feelings about my challenge earlier? And what's with all the harpy bones around here? Was this a burial ground?" Talon asks.
"You did it the right way. Long as ya don't backstab me, you're a right gnoll. As for this place, it's called the don't piss Clamp off harpy memorial.
>"Heh, funny one."
"That wasn' a joke, pup. I been here before."
>"Er..."

"This goes to everyone. This clan's gonna be movin' west, but I don't want any second guessers comin' along. You got any doubts 'bout all this, then this'll be the first n' only time you can walk out that door. Won't hold it against ya, but we won't be lookin' out for ya if you do."

Nothin' but shuffles at first, but one got the balls to get up and leave, and some rided on his nerve to go. All in all, got 'bout 17, 18 gnolls still remainin'. Ain't one of mine no more, but I hope they make it out there. The rest of the clan'll move as one. I'll get to know everyone who's still around after the night is done.

>"Hey, boss, uh, how are we supposed to seal off this door anyway?"

jenga style, pull out stones from the sides until it looks weak then tie a rope to the arch stone at the top of the door, back up and heave. will rip it out and collapse the door.

That's not many. From now on we're going to have to travel stealthily and keep forward scouting to prevent ambushes. Also, there's less mouths to feed so we'll be able to keep more gnolls in the group instead of out hunting; are there any gnolls still out doing that?

Also yeah, try to cause a cave-in. Unless there are other rocks already around we can use to regular-block it.

>>386146
But if this is the only entrance, we wouldn't be able to get back out, right? We don't have anything to dig out, do we?

In this situation, I'd suggest not fulling sealing it for a few reasons; One, Airflow. Always wise to have air come in and unless we sealed it Air tight, the vampire will just mist in regardless. Two, you seal it, you can't see it. That means if they simply amass and wait, we may be in for a nasty encounter. Vampires have trouble with sun light, skeletons and zombies don't. We can narrow the entrance, use rubble and stuff to make it a choke point and keep a fire going to use as both a deterrent and a means of keeping the vampire away among other things. Just make sure the wind isn't blowing the smoke into the cave. That can be trouble some. A small barricade can work too just for cover as well.

After that, have 2 gnolls watch the entrance for a bit. Start with the most alert first and let the most tired ones take the last shift right before heading out. That way everyone gets some rest, we have alertish guards and in case of a surprise attack, at least one person can alert the others.

Clamp 2012/02/12(Sun)21:05 No. 386153 ID: d6af4f
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Cave in ain't a problem, but it'll be hell to get back out again. Just remembered there were 2 exits to this place, an' if they're both caved in, we'll have to go through the deep tunnel behind us to leave... wait a second.

"'ey Leaf, you were the one that went through those back tunnels. Where'd you say they went?"
>"Ah, they.. dwarf. That's right, they led straight to the western dwarven kingdoms from the looks of it, but I didn't go in too deep. Dunno what we'll find on the way, since this tunnel isn't used anymore, and I don't know if there's any exits on the way. If we use it, we may not find another way out till right underneath a dwarven stronghold, that may or may not still be around."

Another option then.

Before sealing the door make sure you cover the outside of the entrance with foliage or something to camouflage it. Maybe cover your scent and heat trails, too, if you can figure out a way to do that. Hopefully we can avoid being found altogether.

Collapse the bigger entrance, and half block the other with rubble. Stick a fire just inside that entrance. Put your two most alert clan-mates on first watch, with a three hour shift, and cycle them out over the night.

Before you do hole up, make sure to collect materials for torches, and extra water, while you can. Just in case you end up having to retreat into the tunnel. If they have to go outside, keep in two groups of three, and watch each other's backs.

>>386145
Heh. Bet Talon doesn't feel like so much of a big gnoll for killin' all those harpies now. Consider givin' his necklace back if he gets through the night without screwing up.

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/12(Sun)23:23 No. 386206 ID: d6af4f
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North exits blocked off. Decided to close off the southern part with rubble, just enough to squeeze through. If we wanna leave that way. Time to get some sleep, left Redsteel and Talon at the entrance for now, with a couple others patrolling on -

>"Clamp, we got issues!" Redsteel yells

Gotta be kiddin' me.

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/12(Sun)23:25 No. 386207 ID: d6af4f
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Redsteel and Talon still at the entrance. Got the fire still goin'.

"What's the is- oh."

Dead bodies. Can't see nothin' yet, but I smell em. Heavy, like the whole forest was rotten meat.

Zombies. We're in trouble. Fighting zombies is no fun at all.

Might want to just block off the whole thing.

just everyone back inside, zombies are only good if they can swarm you, narrow entrance limits them.

Indeed. Zombies are pretty tricky, but we got a good position. Get everyone ready. If you have some booze or oil, get a bit of cloth, stick it in the hopefully glass container with a bit of cloth sticking out, light the end of the cloth on fire and chuck the bottle at the group. should make a effective fire ball.

>>386215
We gotta keep them from then advancing on fire into our ranks. If we're gonna throw a firebomb it should be while keeping away from them or into the middle of their ranks, not while fighting them.

Looks like the lich is done messing around.

Block up the entrance, but leave a gap at the top and a slope up to it. Nothing big enough to get in, but big enough to throw and shoot out.

>>386215
Clay pots with narrow necks would work as well as glass here. Did Leaf see any barrels down below that might have dwarven booze? Can't imagine the shorty drunkards leaving any behind, but it would make for some amazing firebombs.

If there's a necromancer commanding these zombies, expect them to act and fight with more sense than you'd expect. They'll try to dig through to get to you.

Oh, and keep an eye on those harpy bones. It's unlikely, but they might animate and try to attack, if there's a powerful necromancer out there.

>>386207
Fortunately you're in the perfect zombie-fighting position. Block the door with something if available, if not, block it with corpses.

1/2 Clamp 2012/02/13(Mon)01:46 No. 386265 ID: d6af4f
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Was no alcohol years ago, an' doesn't look like there's been a restocking mission. We do have some alcohol, courtesy kobold wagon, so we'll set up some fire bombs in their bottles when it comes to that.

>Harpy bones
Shit, right.

"EVERYONE UP. Break the harpy bones on the way over, don't let a single bone stay together!"

2/2 Clamp 2012/02/13(Mon)01:46 No. 386266 ID: d6af4f
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They ain't attackin', though. Just moanin' and groanin'. And not just a little. Must be hundreds of 'em out there, makin' as much noise as they can, stampin on the hill above us. Ain't just regular zombies, either. Roars, squacks, chirps and barks, every damn noise from any animal, all trumpetin' through a rotten throat. Between the noise and the smell, ain't any of us gonna get some sleep tonight.

Packed in some more rubble, too, so they gotta work more to enter. Been about an hour, and some of the gnolls are startin' to get rightly afraid. Hoverin around in the other room, tryin' to get somethin to hide the noise.