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Active [Ryken - Ryke] A Royal Pain in Escort

Maxxob

The Overseer
RP Goal: Successfully escort the NPC to its destination.
When joining, remember to:
- link your character's profile
- write their Standing Grade
- mention your character private asset goal if they have one (assets are further explained within the rules)
- always mention relevant passive skills (like feature Darkvision, Resilient Surprise, Point Boosters, etc.)


Scene 0 • Guild Row, Ryken — Mid-morning drizzle​


Ryken Adventurer Guild.png

Brass streetlamps hiss in the spring rain outside the vaulted facade of Ryken Adventurers’ Guild – Central Chapterhouse. Inside, cedar-smoke mingles with wet leather; quest boards clatter under fresh postings while quartermasters haggle over rations.

Your characters are here for their own reasons—waiting on payment, chasing rumors, or simply drying cloaks by the hearth. That’s when the doors slam open.

A carriage footman (soaked to the epaulettes) hustles in, unfurls a scarlet carpet across the threshold, and out totters a rosy-cheeked gentleman in candy-striped breeches, powdered curls trimmed around a tiny gilt crown.

He fans himself with a silken kerchief, projecting a nasal, trilling laugh—

Lord Bocchan Aurelius Pompadour Seroria-Ben-Magnus III
Bocchan.png

“Ho-ho-ho-ho! Loyal denizens of Ryken! Presenting the one true heir to the Duchy of Seroria—Lord Bocchan Aurelius Pompadour Seroria-Ben-Magnus III—protector of traditions, patron of pâtisserie, etc, etc!”

Bocchan waves theatrically, slips once on the damp flagstones, then recovers with exaggerated dignity. A junior scribe lugging a metal-bound coffer wheezes after him.

He clears his throat, producing a scroll sealed in vermilion wax:

“I require an escort to Thaddeus Halgorn’s so-called capital forthwith. Success secures for each valiant guardian”—he lets the pause hang—a handful of genuine golden rykes.”

With a conspiratorial wink he adds, barely sotto voce, “Enough to drown one’s worries in top-shelf brandy, my dears.”

What’s immediately visible:​

  • The guild crest on the scroll’s ribbon is authentic.
  • The box the scribe carries bears the sigil of House Seroria, though the paint looks freshly touched-up.
  • Bocchan’s cloak lining is soaked: hidden inside are lots of pockets, some suspiciously heavy.
 

1000060699.png
(Originally hand-drawn, colored and edited with ai assistance)
-Standing grade: F
-Asset goal: Ryke Adventurers guild connection F​



Sue sat restlessly by the fireplace of the guild's massive chamber, taking in the sights while she petted her warm fox pelt, which she had wrapped around her shoulder so that it hung over her lap. The article had long since become part of her body it seemed, as she would never take it off unless she needed to take a bath (or give it a bath, which she would often say instead of simply washing it.)

She and Aimi, along with Aimi's mechanical sidekick, had traveled together a long way in search of work so they could scrounge up the capital necessary to renovate their recently claimed home base. They had taken care to bury the mother-daughter duo that once upon a time lived in that old house, and had made work of hanging dry herbs around to freshen up the atmosphere.

It only started raining a little while after they arrived at the guild hall. Sue groaned in contempt at the time the storm kicked up, realizing they'd be trapped there for a good while until it was over. They were simply resting from the journey, and Sue wasn't quite ready to look at work requests yet. That's exactly when one stumbled upon her haphazardly.

Sue jerked her head around to look in the direction of the guild's entryway as the sound of doors hitting walls jolted her out of her trance, and the sound of heavy rainfall echoed throughout the acoustic architecture.

"Grrrrr... what the hell? Who does something like..."

Mid-complaint, she suddenly paused, watching, stupefied, as the red carpet rolls out and extends across the floor, and the most disgustingly pompous man she'd ever laid eyes upon, waltzed into the guild hall, with a half-assed entrance to boot. She couldn't even bring herself to laugh at his clumsiness. All her face could express was complete disdain for what appeared to be, in all manner of speaking, a spoiled rich asshole.

She opened her mouth, but she could hardly make out a sound besides a few shaky grunts of surprise. She had never before experienced true hate at first sight, but when she did, it hit her like a brick wall falling on top of a kitten.

She was rightly speechless, that is, until the large man dressed like a barbershop ornament mentioned a pile of gold as fat as he was. Sue shook her head in disbelief, as though somebody had spit on her shoes.

"Really? This guy?" She blurted without thinking. "He's worth that much cheese? Aimi, are you kidding me right now? He's not serious, is he?"

Sue covered her face with her fox pelt. Please don't be serious. Please don't be serious. Please don't be serious. She muffled the phrase into her pelt, repeating it like a mantra. They needed the money, sure... but did they need it that badly?

 
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Fenrir Hellsing
Fenrir%203.png
Titles: [Beast], [Butler], [Born For This], [Native], [Motivated], [Good Boy], [Abiding Servant], [Spoiled Servant], [Mentor] - #3FA008
Languages: "Common", "<Bestial>"
Standing Grade: C, Mentor C, Attentive Student C
Asset Goal: Connection to Ryke Nobility F


Fenrir wasn't that surprised for having been granted free-time from his duties to Mistress Saoirse, after all he was the very face of what an exemplary servant should be. What he didn't expect was to end up in Ryken once more: this bizarre land in which the different species pretended to live in harmony and the rightful ownership of others was banned. What a ridiculous notion! It was no wonder that this nation, this protectorate was tiny as it was. Still, even with its meager significance, it still had its uses.

Regardless, even before the rain had started, the Wolfman found himself inside the halls of the Ryke Adventurer Guild. It had been quite a while since he had been in combat, and he was more than eager to test the new equipment bought for him by his Mistress.

The Butler stood right before the quest board, bestial eyes darting through every slip of paper attached to it. He didn't even care about any curious glance he might have received, thanks to his towering form or stoic visage. The others didn't matter.

Only when the door of the guild was slammed open that his wolf ears perked up. And, after turning around, he raised one furry eyebrow seeing this curious, flamboyant and haughty self-proclaimed heir. "<Huh, a member of nobility that depends on others to get what is rightful his. Pathetic.>" The Wolfman murmured in bestial, crossing his arms. But, perhaps, that was the customs of this land of weaklings. And, perhaps helping this limp noble would end up granting a certain boon to his Mistress.

Taking a few steps towards Lord Bocchan, he would give him a bow, leveraging his [Etiquette C], while betraying nothing of his actual thoughts about the man. "Your Grace, I will gladly accept your just quest and shall see you arrive in the usurper's capital safely."
 

Aimi
(Standing E)

ucgdasiR_o.png





Static Skills

qaSAx319_o.png

Personality Guide
Protective, aloof, curious, dumb, emotionally unstable

A loyal bodyguard built by Aimi; overzealous in protecting her. Occasionally displays wild mood swings, especially when her nature as a construct disturbs people. Wishes to become human, but hides this from Aimi.
  • Attentive Student​
  • 4x Minions [Kevin]​
  • 5x Minions [Emma]​
  • 5x Minions [Sue]​




Maxxob Maxxob Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip
Asset goal: Upgrade Ryke Adventurer's Guild connection​


Subduing the world with magic constructs was an expensive endeavor. Someday, surely, there would come an inflection point at which Aimi herself would no longer need to involve herself in the pursuit of capital accumulation. Someday... but not today.

6YM8m1rG_o.png
"This would be unnecessary if you hadn't insisted on replacing the furniture," Aimi mentioned to Sue as the three entered the familiar guild. "It was still functional." She was starting to become a familiar face here, which made it only slightly less shocking when a small platoon of constructs clad in glass armor and weapons followed her in, one after another. Taking their position at the edge of the room, all fourteen of them lined up against the wall like an array of magic statues, filling the guild with a cacophony of whirring and low humming noises. Five of them stole frequent glances at Sue with cold, unsearchable blue eyes, paying special attention to the human they were modeled after.

"I'll ask the receptionist about finding the requests. With any luck, there will be several that we can complete in parallel. Stay with Sue and listen to her orders, Fencer. You have a tendency to make trouble." Aimi left her bodyguard with Sue, approaching the desk. Before she could even open her mouth to ask, the room was suddenly invaded by the pompous nobleman.

Aimi froze, eyes stuck on him. His attitude... his BMI... his wealth... they reminded her so much of the beloved administrators who'd created her so long ago. It took her a moment to realize she was smiling. Aimi corrected that quickly. She was here with purpose, not to reminisce about a world long gone.

"...wait, did he say each...!?"

Ignoring Sue's protests, Aimi raised her hand at once. "We'll do it! All agents, stand behind me. You two as well," she added, pointing to Sue (Human edition) and Fencer as her constructs lined up behind her to face the nobleman. Four lizardmen, five barrier mages, five "Sue"s, and Fencer. Plus herself and Sue, 17 high-value payments... oh, the potential~! Aimi suddenly regretted leaving her last Kevin behind to guard her workshop.
 
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Izuru
Mentions: Maxxob Maxxob Tau Tau
Standing Grade: B
Asset Goal: Ryke Adventurers Guild Rank +1

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Izuru's pleasant dreams about flying red panda beasts were disrupted once the door to the guild hall were abruptly slammed open. The dragonkin had a few too many Maestro-Fuels after his most recent adventure. Although one may not believe a table in the Adventurers Guild to be comfortable enough for a nap. It was certainly an upgrade from sleeping outside. Now the blissful sleep he had rightfully earned had been rudely interrupted by what appeared to be someones deranged uncle wearing a Hallows Eve costume. Taking a moment to actually LISTEN to whatever this idiot was saying. The foppish looking nobleman seemed to be offering an escort quest. Wheezing a little since his beauty sleep had been wrecked by such a moron. Izuru decided that if he was going to interact with stupid, he should at least be paid for it. Getting up from his table and dusting off his clothes. The dragonkin sauntered on over to the nobleman to see if he was actually as harmless as he looked. First he gave the guy a brief appraisal to see if he was hiding any secrets. His experience with appraising people usually resulted in the person being mildly amused. "Fair greetings Lord Bocchan. I have come to accept your quest given that your grace has need of expediency. The naked eye can see you are the picture of a nobleman" said Izuru, without a hint of sincerity.

After that he saw one of the other adventurers signing up for the escort quest. It was a girl, a girl with eyes like liquid glow worms and a legion of glassware automatons. Inwardly Izuru rubbed his hands together since he hadn't met many interesting women on his recents misadventures. Sliding on over like there were wheels attached to his boots. The dragonkin tossed his eye mask into a ripple in the air. "I must say Miss. You look like a million rykes. Any chance you'd wanna head back to my clubhouse in another dimension?" asked Izuru while rocking the fingerguns. Recently he'd picked up a book on Space-Time Magic which allowed him to create a small pocket dimension to store his stuff. He'd just finished redecorating the little house he'd made with some stained glass windows. Given how she seemed to be found of glass people, the stained glass may just be his way to her heart.

Actions:
1: Scrutinize Bocchan = Appraisal D + Investigation E
2: Lie to the Nobleman = Persuasion E + Deception E
3: Flirt with Aimi
 

Sue Watanabe

1000060699.png
(Originally hand-drawn, colored and edited with ai assistance)
-Standing grade: F
-Asset goal: Ryke Adventurers guild connection F



"Alright Fence, come on and give Charlie a pet. Come on, he won't bite. He likes a good petting."

This was the extent of Sue's "orders" to Fencer while Aimi went to check out reception. And that was indeed the name of her beloved fox pelt, and she'd be quick to correct anyone who'd tell her that a dead thing didn't deserve a name. After all, Emma was dead too, wasn't she? And she had a name, right? So what's the difference?

At first, it took her some getting used to, seeing 5 of herself. They were endearing in their own rights, but when she first saw the Sue bots, she wondered if she was having her mid-life crisis already. They seemed to look up to her, or that's what she figured, from the way they took turns putting eyes on her. She was sure that it was a sign that they viewed her as their parent, and not a sign that they were all planning to eliminate her so that they could take her place as the original Sue.

They were just too cute to do something like that, weren't they?



...weren't they?



Fast forward and Aimi was already accepting the mission to escort captain candy cane to the land of Oz. Scrambling to her feet, Sue stammered and made some stuttering noises as she walked over to the group and adjusted her glasses (fake glasses that she insisted made her look more like an educated pelt saleswoman) and tried to find words that didn't sound like excuses not to take the job.

"I'll have you know! This is! You! B-Baron - Lord - Broccoli-chan, Pompadoodle the second, of, Magnets, and so-forth and suchwise, what my esteemed and, forthright colleague means to say is,"

While Sue tried her best to hold back any notion of rejection towards the aristocrat, she was interrupted by a studly man with horns on his head who made his way over and stole Aimi's attention with a proposal to go to his private quarters and do whatever, Sue could imagine, he was inviting her to do at a private quarters! She became so flustered that her glasses fogged up and she backed into what... felt like a sturdy, yet fluffy wall.

She turned around, and looked up, to see the face of...

"Uh yeah, we'll take the job." She said plainly, while transfixed on the visage of Fenrir Hellsing, an equally studly, and professional looking wolf butler. Sue's countenance quickly went beet-red, and her glasses fogged up so much that she had to take them off. Just to get a better look at him. A better, longer look.

"Uh, yeah, uh, I-I'm Charlie. A-and this is my Human, Sue." She said to Fenrir.
 
Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip - RP Goal: Ryke Adventurers Guild connection F
Tau Tau - RP Goal: Upgrade Ryke Adventurer's Guild connection
Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia - RP Goal: Upgrade Ryke Adventurer's Guild connection
Maxxob Maxxob - RP Goal: Connection Ryke Nobility F


Scene 1 • Guild Row, Ryken — Late-morning drizzle​


Ryken Adventurer Guild.png

Signatures and first impressions​


Lord Bocchan Aurelius Pompadour Seroria-Ben-Magnus III
Bocchan.png

Fenrir bowed with perfect form. Bocchan clapped in delight. “Exquisite! A stalwart chevalier with the bearing of a midnight wolf! You, sir, shall march at my right hand and frighten off curs both literal and political.”

Aimi approached, constructs whirring into a disciplined rank. Bocchan gasped, pressed a hand to his heart, and leaned conspiratorially toward her. “Artifice worthy of the Old Imperium! Madam, once I sit upon my throne, you must design me a sedan chair that rocks itself while I read poetry.”

Fencer edged between Aimi and Izuru, crystalline eyes narrowing when the dragonkin offered finger-guns and flattery. Izuru would come to learn that Bocchan bore the titles [Human] and [Connected to Ryken Nobility]. While other titles were shown as [???]. "Oh my, I knew I made the right choice by coming right to the adventurer's guild!" He beamed, ego thoroughly polished by Izuru's words.

Sue, adjusting fogged spectacles, stammered acceptance while staring up—scarlet-cheeked—into Fenrir’s lupine features. Bocchan fluttered his kerchief at her pelt. “Rustic haute couture—absolutely daring. Only a soul of confidence could pair fox fur with spectacles so… scholastic.”

Quills scratched. The clerk, voice small amid the bustle, pointed out a clause: payment vanished if Lord Bocchan voluntarily abandoned the escort. Bocchan waved the warning aside.

“Nonsense, my dear scribe—why would I ever leave the company of such exemplary protectors? Strike your doom-and-gloom from this radiant morning!”

No one argued—until trouble clattered in.




The coach calamity​


The butler-coachman burst through the doors, dripping rainwater.

“My lord, the main axle snapped in a pothole outside. Spare’s aboard, but we can’t lift the carriage in the street.”

Outside, traffic jammed; guards shooed wagons away; two bronze-plated Compliance Wardens strode up demanding a march permit for Aimi’s towering entourage.

Bocchan slapped his kerchief against the puddled floor, scandalised.

“Incompetence, soaked from hat to boot! Did I not explicitly instruct you to avoid puddles of disrepute? Very well. Heroes!”—he spun toward the party, cape fanning—“A trivial obstacle, surely. Lift the coach, conjure a fresh one, or dazzle these tin-plated bureaucrats with your silver tongues. I leave the method to your celebrated talents!”

He planted himself by the hearth, simultaneously warming and fanning himself, and added with utter sincerity:

“Or we might stroll the scenic route through Mistvale Wood—bandits are frightful conversationalists, but they do provide exercise.”



The rain-soaked pinch point​


Fines loom, the heir apparent grows louder, and drenched townsfolk grumble at the blocked street. How will you pry Bocchan—and yourselves—out of Ryken?

  1. Mend the axle here and now
    Raw muscle or swift engineering (Superstrength, Athletics, Engineering, Maker-style improvisation). Beat DC 12 and the carriage rolls; partial success crawls at half speed.
  2. Procure fresh transport within fifteen minutes
    Talk someone out of their coach or splash coin (Wealth, Persuasion, Business). DC 13; failure means an hour’s delay and ever-shadier “help.”
  3. Secure a marching permit and hoof it to the outer stables
    Navigate bureaucracy—or bribe it—and keep Bocchan quiet (Law, Leadership, Etiquette, or Deception—two DC 11 checks: one for the permit, one to hush him).
  4. Invent another stunt entirely—Bocchan will applaud any scheme that looks dramatic.

Declare your actions, cite the skills you lean on, and the first wheels—or replacement wheels—of this royal pain’s journey will begin to turn.

[Cooldowns are in effect, 3 actions maximum]
 
Titles: [Beast], [Butler], [Born For This], [Native], [Motivated], [Good Boy], [Abiding Servant], [Spoiled Servant], [Mentor] - #3FA008
Languages: "Common", "<Bestial>"
Standing Grade: C, Mentor C, Attentive Student C
Asset Goal: Connection to Ryke Nobility F


Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia Tau Tau

“You can count on me for that, my Lord.” Fenrir rose from his bow, face stoic and unchanged. And just as he did so, someone bumped into him. From above the human, the Wolfman stared at her silently at first, head tilting sideways slightly. “Mmmm?” He would arch a single, furry eyebrow to the words that reached his ears.

He didn’t quite understand who was speaking: if it was the fox on top of the human’s head or the human herself. Perhaps this was some sort of eccentric ventriloquist act? Regardless, he prepared his answer as certainly would be expected of a representative of Saoirse Desrosiers.

“I’m Fenrir Hellsing. It is a pleasure to make your acquittance.” He said to Charlie in an even tone, moments before leaning down towards the woman and starting a sniffarino on her very self. His elongated muzzled would first stop on top of her head, where the pelt of the fox rested, giving it a deep sniff. Then it would move downward, a hairbreadth away from her as it made its way to her own nose. And, in there, it would stop, for a long moment, before one final sniff which was accompanied by the straightening of his back.

“Interesting…” He murmured to himself, before looking at the others who would also be embarking in this escort mission. “Glad to be working with every single one of you.” He said towards both Izuru and Aimi, keeping any overt opinion he might have had to himself for the moment.

Things didn’t remain calm for too long. Not when the Lord’s coachman made its way into the guild, announcing the broken axle. “I’m afraid my strength isn't the type that is made for lifting things.” Fenrir admitted, knowing he would be of little help with that regard. However, the Compliance Wardens and Lord Bocchan himself were a different situation altogether.

“Officials, while… construct’s entourage might seem a bit too overwhelming, you must take into account that they are being used to safeguard the life of a noble. Certainly, someone of high-status like Lord Bocchan Aurelius Pompadour Seroria-Ben-Magnus III is in need of great protection and should not be guarded by only a handful of protectors, should it?” While he put his argument forward, Fenrir kept his usual stoic nature and right tactful tone of voice [Action 1].

“I understand why someone of your status would get aggravated by the demands these officials are asking for, Lord Bocchan. But one must remember that this type of bureaucracy is needed for making sure the rules are followed. I’m sure they have the people of Ryke on their best interest when they ask for the marching permits.” He finished his attempt in calming down Lord Bocchan with a courteous bow [Action 2]. Hopefully, that would be enough.

Actions:
1 - Etiquette C - Grade C 3 Posts Cooldown
2 - Etiquette D - Grade D 2 Posts Cooldown

CDs: C 0/3, D 0/2
 
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Aimi
(Standing E)

ucgdasiR_o.png





Static Skills

qaSAx319_o.png

Personality Guide
Protective, aloof, curious, dumb, emotionally unstable

A loyal bodyguard built by Aimi; overzealous in protecting her. Occasionally displays wild mood swings, especially when her nature as a construct disturbs people. Wishes to become human, but hides this from Aimi.
  • Attentive Student​
  • 4x Minions [Kevin]​
  • 5x Minions [Emma]​
  • 5x Minions [Sue]​





Aimi nodded, displaying a rare smile as the noble accepted the offer. She also would’ve displayed dollar signs in her eyes, if at all possible. "I suppose a motorized throne would be simple enough to create when we’re finished," she replied, hoping to lock-in the potential for future profits.

The ominous escape clause didn’t go unnoticed, but Aimi immediately considered the risk worthwhile for the absurd reward potential. A reasonable calculation, she believed.

It wasn’t uncommon for Aimi to see some unusual characters at the adventurer’s guild from time to time, but a scaled man with dimensional powers… now that was interesting. She at once recognized his approach as the interaction known as "flirting."


………
……………………………

Aimi had now been staring blankly at him for about half a minute. She recognized this situation as "horribly awkward." A generally undesirable state that ought to be resolved… but how? Well, there was a lot of factors to consider, which took even more time…



"Yes." It had taken almost a full minute for her to reach this conclusion, and clearly she’d needed more to come up with something more that sounded less dead inside. "After this job is finished, I would like to see how that works," she added for further clarification. As for whether she could apply the intimacy he was implicitly requesting, or if she even should, she could attempt to find those answers while completing the job.

Speaking of which…

"Marching permit…!?" Aimi echoed, baffled that such she’d already exceeded such a limit before she’d even had so much as a thousand following her. "…Really?" Aimi was thankful for Fenrir, as he’d called himself, quickly stepping in on her behalf.

Her eyes drifted over to the scaled man. "This clubhouse dimension of yours… how many human-sized constructs can it hold? Enough to bring us below the threshold?" Vaguely understanding the implications, all of Aimi’s constructs suddenly turned towards him expectantly. Aimi replied to this with a command…

[Action 1] "All of you, lift the carriage until I can fix the wheel," Aimi offered a sweeping command to all of her followers, figuring that all of them working together ought to be able get the thing up out of the hole.

[Action 2] Stepping into the carriage, Aimi found the spare axel, inspecting it. Her skills as a [Glassmaker] weren’t exactly ideal, but she at least had a lot experience creating things. Stepping back out, she did her best to replace the wheel while her little army kept it raised up.

Action 1: Command Minions
Action 2: Artisan [Glassmaker] B

Minion action: Basic Strength action (Teamup with Aimi)
 
Izuru
Mentions: Maxxob Maxxob Tau Tau Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip

The dragonkin flashed his best smile whilst interacting with the black haired girl who was followed by her entourage of glass constructs. She had gone silent for a bit which Izuru gauged to be either awkwardness or tactical retreat protocols. Luckily it was just a momentary lapse in social etiquette and the girl seemed to accept his invitation to hang out at his otherworldly clubhouse inside his pocket dimension. Unfortunately she DID end up asking whether she could store her glassware automatons in his clubhouse. Although she HAD agreed to spend time with him after this quest. He would have to burst her bubble prematurely. "Unfortunately....no... We can't store these friends of yours in the clubhouse. Where you go in is where you exit. While it does provide an alternative to camping out in the rain. Regularly exiting it would be the only straightforward way to go to other places" said Izuru while forming an umbrella of otherworldly blackness from the tip of his cane. Holding the umbrella over Aimi so she could focus on her work. The dragonkin tried brainstorming ways he could help her since his current skillset wasn't of practical use to this particular task.

Noticing that the boys in brass had come to annoy Aimi about her glass subordinates. Izuru decided to ply his knowledge of speechcraft to get them off her back so that she could focus. "Gentlemen, now I'm sure you're both VERY busy given that today is wet and dreary. No doubt you'd prefer heading back to the office with a coffee to focus on something less tedious. Now, I am willing to pay a bit upfront for this lovely lady's permit. In exchange, how about we go our separate ways. This man right here is a bonafide noble of equally noble birth. Think about how much recognition you'd receive for helping THE Lord Bocchan Aurelius Pompadour Seroria-Ben-Magnus III? Rather than getting a side promotion with no respect. You might get into the big leagues with a cushy office and a cute secretary? Think about it..." said Izuru, pulling out a pouch of coins from a ripple in the air. He had no idea how much it would cost for Aimi's glass constructs yet it was probably a little more than this. Yet he was hoping the combination of SOME real money along with the prospect of advancement would sway the Compliance Wardens.

Actions
1: Magic E + Void F + Control Environment F = Umbrella over Aimi
2: Entice the Compliance Wardens = Persuasion E + Deception E + Lucky F
 



Sue stood entirely still while Fenrir's nose hovered awfully close to her own. Via this totally unexpected yet super welcome greeting, Sue even managed to smell him back. The moment, though brief, had earned Sue a whiff of Fenrir's breath. And after his face moved away, he went on with what he was doing.

With her mouth agape Sue turned to follow his movements, watching him make his proclamation to the wardens. Then as he went to make conversation with the rich boy and keep him busy, Sue released herself from the throes of his charms only because she realized stuff was still going on around her. Aimi was already outside working on fixing the wheel and the dragonkin went on pleading with the officials to give them a marching permit.

With everyone busy, Sue looked around, putting some puzzle pieces together in her mind which was swimming in a torrent of flustered emotions, no doubt, but still belonged to the same Sue who had learned a bitter lesson about what happens when she lets her emotions run wild.

Sue pulled her belt up and stormed outside, stomping, and found Aimi on top of the carriage along with her entourage of constructs scattered about. The rain was still heavy, but for the time being, she didn't worry about it. She was cooking up something of a plan. And whether it would work or not would have to depend on how well she pulled it off.

"SUE BOOOTS! ATTENTIOOOOOON!!"

At her bellowing yell any sue bots who were currently working on something perked up, not dropping anything, but turning their attention over to their look-alike.

"Aimi can I borrow some of these? I promise it's for something good." Sue looked at the work they were doing and squinted, biting her fingernail. "Maybe three will do? Three or four? Is that alright?"

"Just take all of them, I have plenty here already."
Aimi said almost dismissively as she stayed focused on what she was doing. Sue's eyes brightened up widely, catching a grin making its way to her lips before she straightened out and reverted back to drill sergeant mode.

"YOU HEARD THE WOMAN! FRONT AND CENTERRR! NOW!"

At her command the Sue bots all jumped down from the carriage and lined up in front of Sue. Like ducks in a row, she led them inside.

"Left! Left! Left! Sue bots! Hut!"

At 'hut', the bots stopped and stood in place, waiting for further instructions. Sue presented them before the wardens.

"My esteemed officials. Allow me to introduce the handiwork of hundreds of years of craftsmanship passed down through generations, these magnificent constructs you see before you are the most advanced servants to be produced by our most talented mechanic, who is currently working just outside. Observe!"

Sue clapped her hands, turning to face the Sue bots, and ordered them to march back and forth, up, down and in square patterns.

"I shall demonstrate the range of capabilities of the Sue bots, if you will. Sue bots! Pyramid formation!"

The bots, at her order, climbed on top of each other, two on two, feet to shoulders, and one at the top.

"You there! Come here!"

The one on top jumped down and approached Sue, standing in front of her.

"Let me see your weapon, soldier."

With ease, the Sue bot handed Sue its gun and stared intently at her, then moved its unblinking gaze towards the wardens, then back at Sue, who held the gun by its barrel so as to carefully display control and good will.

"These bots are completely obedient, sophisticated, and coordinated. And with our acquaintance here, this kind gentleman offering his hard earned coin," she said as she motioned towards Izuru, "surely that's worth the trouble of allowing these bots to accompany our party on our mission, wouldn't you agree? Especially when we're talking about, as he mentioned, our esteemed nobleman, whom we shall be escorting to his throne? And if that isn't enough, would you allow it even if we offered to pay the rest of the fee when we return, having completed our task?"

Sue placed a hand on the Sue bot's shoulder, gesturing towards Lord Pompadour. "Sue bot, if you please, go dust off his majesty's royal garments."

And with a nod, the disarmed bot proceeded towards Pompadour and after a brief moment of eye contact it began lightly, gently plucking each miniscule piece of dust and hair from his cloak.

"If he so wished, the Sue bots could give his royal highness a sponge bath, or a deep tissue massage, or even fan him while he sits down to relax! So, what do you say? Surely, they are more than qualified to escort this young Lord home safely."

Sue finished with a bow towards the wardens, hoping they would be pleased with her demonstration. But moreso, she quietly wished that her performance would impress a certain fuzzy butler. With the obstacle of shyness gone, she felt more confident than ever that the group could pull through this road bump.

[Action 4] Sue chooses to dazzle the audience with a performance/distraction.

 
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Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip - RP Goal: Ryke Adventurers Guild connection F
Tau Tau - RP Goal: Upgrade Ryke Adventurer's Guild connection
Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia - RP Goal: Upgrade Ryke Adventurer's Guild connection
Maxxob Maxxob - RP Goal: Connection Ryke Nobility F (for Saoirse)


[Remember to keep track of your cooldowns. CDs: Aimi B 0/4, Izuru E 0/1 (Action 2 moved to F grade fully, still has his Lucky F charge unspent (might need later).]

Scene 2 • Outside the Guild, Ryken — Near-midday drizzle​


Ryken Adventurer Guild.png

Rain hammered the cobbles outside the Guild while the hall watched Lord Bocchan’s escort spring into action.




The Wardens Confronted​


Rain sheeted off Fenrir’s immaculate gray livery as he advanced. With perfect posture and courtly precision he presented the escort’s case: the noble’s large entourage, he stressed, served to protect Lord Bocchan from coups, not stage one. His measured gestures and faultless etiquette—honed to noble-court standards—left the Wardens little room to object.

Izuru moved in support, all smooth confidence. A discreet pouch of coins changed hands while he highlighted the prestige the officials would enjoy for facilitating a Serorian heir’s safe passage and hinted at letters of commendation. The combination of proper protocol and persuasive incentive softened bureaucratic resolve.

Behind them Sue’s drill-sergeant performance reached its finale: Sue-bots rotated through a razor-sharp marching display, ending in a tidy pyramid and a crisp curtsy to the bronze-plated officers. The spectacle underscored the constructs’ discipline—and the party’s resources.

Numbers told the tale. Between Fenrir’s immaculate etiquette, Izuru’s silver tongue, and Sue’s theatrical flourish, the negotiation soared past any bureaucratic hurdle. A warden stamped the parchment with a hiss of hot wax, pocketed Izuru’s “processing fee,” and muttered, “Travel manifest approved for seventeen bodies—construct or otherwise. Keep them in line beyond the south gate.”

Lord Bocchan Aurelius Pompadour Seroria-Ben-Magnus III
Bocchan.png

Bocchan, thrilled, immediately spoiled the smooth finish:

“Splendid! I shall repay your prompt civility once my coffers—real coffers, mind you—are pried from that usurper’s grip!”

The wardens exchanged a look at the word usurper, but with the paperwork satisfied and coins in hand they let the remark slide… for now.




Aimi’s Pit-Stop Miracle​


Outside, Aimi barked an order. Fourteen glass-armoured constructs ringed the rain-slick coach, lifted its bulk in one synchronized heave, and held it rock-steady. Tools of crystal and brass snapped from Aimi’s belt; shards of alchemic glass flowed like putty under her fingers, fusing spare axle to wheel housing in gleaming channels that would outlast oak and iron alike. In less than five minutes the carriage sat on true wheels again, good as new—and perhaps a touch too elegant for muddy roads.

Fencer hovered beside her, visor edge twitching with something like envy as Izuru’s umbrella of velvety void kept mistress and handiwork perfectly dry. When the dragonkin leaned closer, Fencer’s gauntlet tapped the carriage rail—"Polite distance, if you please". A faint spark crackled in the construct’s palm before winking out.




Boarding and Departure​


Bocchan flounced into the velvet-lined interior, Sue-bot No. 3 dusting impeccably at his cape. Fenrir took the running board at Bocchan’s right; Sue climbed opposite him, fox-pelt curling against the drizzle; Aimi settled inside to keep an eye on fragile glasswork; Izuru swung up last, cane-umbrella collapsing with a flourish.


The coach lurched forward through Ryken’s south gate, wheels hissing on wet stone. Behind, the city’s spires blurred into a grey veil of rain; ahead, the King’s Road unfurled toward the low misty hills that guarded Mistvale Wood.




Travel Clock — Day 1, Mid-Afternoon​


  • Terrain: Paved highway for three leagues, then gravel switchbacks descending toward the forest.
  • Visibility: Poor; rain lightens to fog beyond the ridge.
  • Pace: Normal (Aimi’s repair flawless).
  • Known threat window: Bocchan’s “scenic detour” marker—an unpatrolled crossroads two hours ahead—has birthed a thriving ambush trade.

Inside the carriage, Bocchan taps his signet on the window.

“My friends! A minor fork lies yonder. The main road goes dull as dishwater, patrolled and pothole-free—boooring. The old road, however…” He leans close, eyes sparkling. “It winds beneath ruined aqueducts, positively laden with history. And perhaps—” he lowers his voice to a stage whisper “—opportunity for heroic deeds worth songs and bonuses.”

Aimi’s constructs share a soft crystalline hum—combat-readiness charge? Hard to tell. Fencer, still on the footplate, angles herself between Aimi and Izuru with a possessive clank. Fenrir’s ears flick toward every roadside shadow. Sue-bot No. 1 fans Lord Bocchan theatrically.




What Happens Next?​


The driver will obey whichever route the escorts command:

  1. Stay on the patrolled highway. Lower chance of immediate attack, but Bocchan will mope—and may hatch new trouble.
  2. Take the “scenic” aqueduct road. DC 12 group Perception (or equivalent) check when ambush comes; failure means the coach is boxed in.
  3. Split the difference: ride highway for a league, then cut through a farmer’s causeway Fenrir’s map recalls. Costs an extra hour but avoids both patrol toll and bandit hotspot—maybe.

Declare marching order (who’s inside, who’s riding guard), decide the course, and flag any preparations (spells readied, traps set, Sue-bot choreography rehearsed). The rain is easing, but the day is young—and the Lowland March bristles with ears eager for loose words about ducal treasures.
 
Titles: [Beast], [Butler], [Born For This], [Native], [Motivated], [Good Boy], [Abiding Servant], [Spoiled Servant], [Mentor] - #3FA008
Languages: "Common", "<Bestial>"
Standing Grade: C, Mentor C, Attentive Student C
Asset Goal: Connection to Ryke Nobility F


Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia Tau Tau

The scent of the woman had been imprinted on Fenrir’s mind. Some of which were quite commonplace for him, such as herbs which the Wolfman would often use as spices for the meals he prepared and fox, a game not too uncommon for those living in the West Empire. There were new smells which he had not sampled before, however: human woman, along with a certain tanginess. There was a flicker of his tongue over the razor sharp teeth that permeated his mouth.

With those smells in his mind, it seemed that his Etiquette, along with quite the help from both Izuru and Sue had managed to convince the wardens of the actual necessity of such a big entourage. Seemed that words, coins and demonstrations really ran the world after all.

And when the exposition of Aimi’s bots, performed by no other than Sue ended, and the Compliance Wardens had been convinced, the Wolfman tilted his head sideways: first to the left, then to the right while looking at the constructs. “You are quite the apt saleswoman. I have to say that was some excellent control and knowledge you have demonstrated while trying to convince the officials.”

Approaching, the Wolfman had to hunch his back slightly to be more on their heights. His hazel, bestial eyes moved, as if scrutinizing the robots themselves, while the rain drizzled from his furred face. “You seem to be an acquaintance of that one. Are you?” He would point one clawed index towards Aimi. Knowing who was -close- to who could end up being important later on.

His gaze then fell upon one of the ‘Sue-bots’, before moving back to Sue proper. “Is that thing a parody of you?” Fenrir’s furry eyebrows furrowed slightly, his head giving the faintest of shakes. “<Absurd.>” He growled in bestial. Giving the minion a thorough snifferino, he supposedly caught the scent of wires, chips and other artificial bits. “Hmph, not the same smell.”

Straightening his back, he would show the smallest hint of approval on his otherwise stoic expression.

And with the group now actually on the road, Fenrir crossed his arms, while sitting at Bocchan’s right. From time-to-time, his wolf ears kept perking up, moving around as if they were on high-alert against unknowns.

Upon the carriage coming to the fork ahead, and the noble actually wanting the group to take the more dangerous route, an expression of confusion appeared on the furry butler’s face. “You… actually want to go through the more hectic route…” It wasn’t a question, but an attempt to confirm what his ears had picked up. Well, they might as well. “I have little problem if we decided on the more ‘problematic’, let’s say it, route. Yourselves?” His gaze slid over to the others: Sue, Aimi and Izuru, wondering what they would think about this lord’s craving for adrenaline.

CDs: C 1/3, D 1/2
 



Sue snuggled deeper into the pelt's warm embrace, imagining the wolf man while he sat on the opposite side of the Pompadoodle. Fenrir's voice could soothe a crying baby, she thought, while he addressed her about her live performance. Sue didn't want to admit it, but when Fenrir called her a saleswoman, it reminded her of her first ever fuck-up in the new world. But, somehow, it also made her feel confident that she could gracefully lean back into acting because she really sold it this time. She could slip back into another character, another fox lady, and maybe this time she would hold it up. A New Sue would be born from the rubble of the old.

Fenrir would step down to take a closer look at the Sue bots, her little Charlie's Angels, asking about her connection to their creator. "Aimi's the mastermind behind all these bad boys and girls. They might be made of glass but so is the stuff holding this carriage together~"

While Sue talked, the butler would continue sniffing out the Sue bot, making a sort of frustrated snarling while shaking his head. A satisfied smile came upon her while she watched. 'Awe, was that the wrong one?' she thought to herself, 'Keep chasing my scent, puppy. Where did it go?'

"You like them? I wouldn't call Aimi's work a parody~ they're more like my own litter of puppies, and they look up to me like I'm their mommy~"

Sue laughed a little at herself. "Well, that's how i like to think of it, anyway. They don't have my scent, but you see the way they always watch me?"

As for the Pompadoodle, he was oddly quiet during the first part of the journey, perhaps he was sleeping, or maybe pretending to sleep? Listening to the back and forth between Sue and Fenrir might have been the entertainment his mind needed to get through this dull weather.

But the drabness of the fog would give way to an eerie picture as Sue looked to her left at the "old road". She whipped out her pistol from her holster, spinning it deftly in preparation for some wacky violence. "You're speaking my language, Pompadude." She said in her coolest manner. Hell, she figured, even Fencer could probably take out any threats by herself if it came to that. But what would be the fun in just watching?

"Don't you worry about a thing, Fen. We got more'n enough firepower ta plow through this detour and put our names on the map."


 

Aimi
(Standing E)

ucgdasiR_o.png





Static Skills

qaSAx319_o.png

Personality Guide
Protective, aloof, curious, dumb, emotionally unstable

A loyal bodyguard built by Aimi; overzealous in protecting her. Occasionally displays wild mood swings, especially when her nature as a construct disturbs people. Wishes to become human, but hides this from Aimi.
  • Attentive Student​
  • 4x Minions [Kevin]​
  • 5x Minions [Emma]​
  • 5x Minions [Sue]​

Cooldowns​
  • B: 0/4




Aimi nodded slowly as the lizard man explained the workings of his "clubhouse dimension." "I see…" she replied. "I was assuming relative distance with you as its anchor, but I suppose that was a mistake. I’ll keep that in mind." But he was far more useful, despite this, first with what sort of qualified as an umbrella, and then with a smoothly worded payment. It was, she supposed, a positive result of optimizing her visual appeal, considering it had been his focus earlier. It was good to know that was worthwhile, as Aimi was considering a reallocation of that effort elsewhere.

"Thank you," she tried to smile as she worked. "You never told me your name."

As Aimi finished up the repair, she took a baffled look at Sue as she danced the agents around in some kind of circus performance. What this was meant to accomplish was a mystery to her, as Sue often was. It was only once they’d filed into the carriage, and Fenrir had given her a compliment on her level of control, that she understood what she’d been doing.

"I see. Very clever, Sue. I forget many constructs in this world are capable of delinquency." Aimi sat back in her seat, glancing out the window at the small construct army marching on either side of the carriage. "A more appropriate term would be inspired by. They’re built to resemble people I’m fond of, in some way." As if remembering something, she turned to Izuru and began to give him a long, detailed examination.

"If the lord wishes to go that way, then we’ll go that way," Aimi answered with simple determination. Pointing to the minion Sue in the carriage, Aimi commanded, "Sue 1: engage enhanced vision. Relay to us any hidden human presence you find outside of this carriage." Suddenly, the eyes of the Sue construct began to glow, filling the carriage car with an ominous red color as it scanned the landscape ahead.

"Someday I hope to have comprehensive satellite coverage, but for now, this will have to do," she explained, as if embarrassed by the meager and flawed method of data collection.

Action 1: Command Sue #1

Sue #2 action: F(C) Supersense [X-ray Vision] (lim. Concentration II)
 
Izuru
Mentions: Maxxob Maxxob Tau Tau Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip

Smiling at how Aimi seemed to be slowly won over by his steady but earnest efforts. Izuru introduced himself as simply as possible so as not to waste the momentum he had built up. "Izuru, a mage passing through" said the dragonkin as if such a thing was as natural as breathing for him to say. Once the group reached the second obstacle in their little quest. It was obvious which route Bocchan wanted them to take. Yet it was pleasantly surprising that the driver would be deferring to the four of them acting as escorts rather than whatever inane decision Bocchan would make on one of his utterly stupid whims. However it appeared as if his fellow escorts were in favor or at least not against heading down the far more treacherous route. While Izuru was quite fond of the odd bonus to his pay. He wasn't the kind of person who would be able to collect on that if he was DEAD. Hence why if the group really had to head down that direction towards inevitable danger. The dragonkin wanted to have at least some idea on a general pathway to travel.

Whipping out his cane and tapping out a few sigils against the side of the handle. Izuru pointed the catalyst forward and wiggled it around for wherever there was the least amount of wiggling triggered. Such was the brand new navigation spell he came up with based on a pamphlet he read on dowsing magic. He'd read up on the subject while visiting the local healer's office due to a weird bump he found on his tail. "If we're REALLY heading towards the old aqueducts. I'd recommend going THIS direction according to my MAGIC" stated a confident Izuru whilst pointing with his cane. The strange swirl of magical darkness swirled in a certain pattern to indicate where the carriage should proceed. Although Izuru knew that what they were looking at wasn't ACTUALLY darkness but he didn't want to bore anyone with a lecture.

1.Flirt with Aimi
2.Navigational Magic = Magic D + Range F + Void D + Zen Direction F + Sixth Sense F (Residual Memory) + Appraisal C + Investigation E
3: Magic Thoughts
 
Titles: [Beast], [Butler], [Born For This], [Native], [Motivated], [Good Boy], [Abiding Servant], [Spoiled Servant], [Mentor] - #3FA008
Languages: "Common", "<Bestial>"
Standing Grade: C, Mentor C, Attentive Student C
Asset Goal: Connection to Ryke Nobility F


Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia Tau Tau

"Your own pups?" Fenrir tilted his head slightly, unsure how to take someone organic considering a construct to be their own kin. "They do look like they are waiting for guidance." That the Wolfman couldn't really deny.

"Then it is settled, it seems." As the others didn't seem to have a problem with the rather hectic path that Lord Bocchan was suggesting, the butler would open the window of the carriage, regardless of the light rain, sticking his muzzle outside and perking up his ears, in an attempt to hear or sniff anything amiss [Action 1/2/3].

1 - Wolfish Detection - Heightened Senses [Smell/Hearing/Touch/Sight] E + Energized E - Grade E 0 Post Cooldown
2 - Wolfish Detection - Heightened Senses [Smell/Hearing/Touch/Sight] F + Energized F - Grade F 0 Post Cooldown
3 - Wolfish Detection - Heightened Senses [Smell/Hearing/Touch/Sight] F + Energized F - Grade F 0 Post Cooldown
CDs: C 1/3, D 1/2
 
Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip - RP Goal: Ryke Adventurers Guild connection F
Tau Tau - RP Goal: Upgrade Ryke Adventurer's Guild connection
Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia - RP Goal: Upgrade Ryke Adventurer's Guild connection
Maxxob Maxxob - RP Goal: Connection Ryke Nobility F (for Saoirse)


[Sue Bot's limiter brings her X-Ray Vision to D rather than C (2 ranks of limiters). Izuru's Appraisal is Grade D, not C.]

Scene 3 • King's Road - Day 1, Late-afternoon​

Mist hung like tattered curtains beneath the shattered arches of the ancient Serorian aqueduct as the coach rattled off the king’s highway and onto the moss-slick cobblestones of the “scenic” road. Ivy-choked pillars flickered past the lanterns; every fifth span lay half-collapsed, a brooding silhouette against the pewter sky.

Lord Bocchan Aurelius Pompadour Seroria-Ben-Magnus III
Bocchan.png

Lord Bocchan pressed his nose to the window, cheeks aglow.

“Look at those noble arches! Not a single tax-man in sight—positively delightful.” He rapped on the roof with his signet. “Driver, keep us under the arcade; I wish to soak in the melancholy grandeur.”



Eyes, ears, and augury​


  • Fenrir leaned out into the drizzle, ears twitching. A faint metallic clack-clack reached him first—crossbow windlasses cranking in the ruin ahead—followed by the sour musk of unwashed leather and cold lamp-oil. He counted nine heartbeats, all moving with predatory care, and one heavier tread shifting a length of chain. The wolf-butler’s warning growl filled the carriage before any ambushers could spring the trap.
  • Inside, Sue-bot 01’s eyes flared crimson. The construct reported vague, jittering shapes in the arches—more blur than body—then fritzed, complaining of “mineral interference.” Sue’s pistol was already twirling at her finger; she needed no clearer picture to taste a fight.
  • Izuru’s navigation spell—dark sigils pulsing along his cane—pointed a narrow lay-by thirty paces short of the suspected kill-zone: a side track where the coach could dash behind a retaining wall or spin for escape. He felt no other route within spell-range free of threat; this was the gauntlet—yet the spell suggested one overgrown service stair spiralling up the aqueduct’s flank, perfect for flanking fire if someone got there first.

Bocchan, oblivious to subtle tension, clapped in delight.

“Ah! Do I sense heroic excitement? Capital! Remember: modest wounds add flair to ballads—but do keep the face unblemished!”



Layout at the ambush choke​


1750981672727.png

CEscort carriage (row 7, columns G–I)
=Paved road
LGravel lay-by / pull-off
SBase of the old service stair (ascends ^ up the aqueduct)
^Stair steps leading to the deck (20 ft elevation)
BCrossbow nests overhead (bandits 20 ft up, shooting down)
HChain-wielding heavy on the ground
RFallen pillar rubble (half-cover)
.Open, slippery cobblestones

What the party knows​


  • Bandit count: at least nine with crossbows in the arches; something heavy with a chain on the ground level, still hidden.
  • Distance: coach is thirty paces (≈ 90 ft) from first ruined arch.
  • Visibility: mist-damp twilight; normal sight to 120 ft, beyond that dim.
  • Terrain perks: the lay-by offers cover for the coach; the stair grants rooftop access for whoever reaches it alive.



Choose your opening​


The driver reins in, awaiting orders. The next six seconds belong to player agency:

  1. Charge straight through. Driver will lash the horses; DC 12 check vs. missile fire (Barrier, Evasion skills, or sheer luck) to avoid bolt-peppered wheels and passengers.
  2. Veer into the lay-by and dismount for a firefight. Coach safe, but you lose the element of speed; crossbows get first volley at whoever exits unless suppressed.
  3. Leap from the moving coach to seize the service stair / ruin. Athletics or Flight check DC 11 to reach cover before bolts fly; gain height advantage next round.
  4. Send constructs as vanguard while coach reverses. Aimi may command minions; they draw fire, buying time for spells or negotiations.
  5. Parley or deceive. Loudly announce a payout, a plague, a noble hostage—anything. Persuasion, Deception, or Intimidation vs. bandit captain’s Will 13. Failure guarantees a nastier fight.

Feel free to split tactics—Fenrir bounding ahead while Izuru casts, Sue shoots from the window, Aimi issues orders, etc. Call your targets and cite the skills you invoke.

Bocchan flutters his kerchief, equal parts terror and thrill.

“Do be dashing, my stalwarts! I’ve a song title ready: ‘Bolts Beneath the Broken Arches.’ Try not to make me rewrite it as a funeral dirge.”

Your move.
 
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Fenrir's growl stirred up something in Sue's chest that squirmed its way up and turned her attention outside. She bounced, hyping herself up for what was about to come. It's go time~

"Sue bot number 1, what's the enemy's location?"

"Several units up overhead at 1, 2, 4, and 5 o'clock. One disturbance at 12 o'clock behind the staircase... It's carrying some large metal object."

Sue took a deep breath. No time for mistakes now. She exhaled slowly and raised her free hand over her chest, pressing it down. Within seconds a magical barrier covered her entire body, emitting an electronic glow. "This should last me rougly an hour..."

While she watched Fenrir's back, she commanded, "I need two Sue bots on Lord Pompadude, pistols at the ready! The rest of you, cover our right flank! I'm gonna go take cover behind that pillar. The stairs are too dangerous but I should have a good aim from there! Whatever you guys do with the carriage, make it good! Everyone else..." Sue paused, looking around at the other robots and whoever was paying attention. "Listen to Aimi! Do what she says!"

With an assured nod she jumped out of the carriage and ran for the pillar, ducking behind it. She poked her head up to assess the positions of the archer's nests above the carriage so she could get a good aim.

Actions:
1. Activate barrier - 6HP, 1 hour, 1 post cooldown
2. Command Sue bots
3. Take cover behind pillar
 
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Aimi
(Standing E)

ucgdasiR_o.png





Static Skills

qaSAx319_o.png

Personality Guide
Protective, aloof, curious, dumb, emotionally unstable

A loyal bodyguard built by Aimi; overzealous in protecting her. Occasionally displays wild mood swings, especially when her nature as a construct disturbs people. Wishes to become human, but hides this from Aimi.
  • Attentive Student​
  • 4x Minions [Kevin]​
  • 5x Minions [Emma]​
  • 5x Minions [Sue]​

Cooldowns​
  • B: 1/4




"I see," Aimi nodded her head slowly at Izuru. "Most people referred to me as Aimi, so I’ve adopted it as my name. Statistically speaking, it was more common for them to use a derogatory term which is against my guidelines to repeat, but my official acronym is pronounced Aimi." She waited, watching him to see what effect sharing these personal facts had on him, and their relationship at large. From what she understood about the flirting process, this particular algorithm was used to optimize empathy between two or more humans.

Her research was sadly interrupted by a waiting ambush. Not terribly surprising, given the scenery. Considering the force of their own numbers, in all likelihood, the bandits would simply wait for an easier target and—

"Sue, you—!" and she was gone. Aimi sighed, rubbing her forehead as the escort grew strangely giddy about being attacked. Humans were always so irrational. She even went through the extraordinarily unnecessary effort of telling the agents to obey their administrator, as if they were capable of the contrary! "Don’t be reckless!" she shouted like a worried mother, beginning to issue her commands…

"Emma 1, north-west corner, Emma 2, north-east corner …" she continued until they formed a box around the carriage. "Emmas 1 through 4: engage barrier."

The four minions began to transform, their humanoid silhouettes giving way to something resembling stationary flower pylons. Each began to hum with magical energy, creating a firm barrier around the carriage.

"All Kevins, search above for enemy targets. Lunge and Strike if out of range," Aimi continued promptly, her words spilling out so quickly, it was almost hard to understand them.

"Sues…" Aimi paused for a moment, before resting back in her seat, "Those were fine commands, actually. We’ll just… have you do that." Sue knew how to get the most out of Sue bots… sue knew!

The remaining Emma bot handed Aimi her new, prototype Glass Cannon, which she loaded with what appeared to be a large glass marble. "I’m finding, as a human, precisely calculated aim becomes difficult, if not impossible. I might be able to hit something close, though." Her eyes drifted back to Izuru. "Do you know any helpful magic for such a situation? Fencer is more suitable for close-range combat."


< Aimi >
Action 1: Command Emmas
Action 2: Command Kevins
Action 3: Aim weapon


< Relevant Emma Abilities >
Barrier Generation | B-Grade | INT A | Glass Staff B
Transformation F(C), Barrier B, Magic E, Duration F, Selective F, Duration Reduction F
Transforms into a pylon which generates a magic dome barrier to block outside attacks.
(Limiter is Deplete III, so the Cooldown is… basically "one use per RP")


< Relevant Kevin Abilities >
Claw Strike | B-Grade | STR A | Glass Claws B
Fighting Style B, Penetrating F, Blight F [Slash], Irritant F, Accurate F
Scrapes an opponent with sharp claws, dipped in a mild, itch-inducing poison.

Lunge | F-Grade
Fast F(D), Jumping F(D)
Lunges forward, expending incredible energy to do so. Max of 2 uses (from lim. Charges II).
 
Izuru
Mentions: Maxxob Maxxob Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip Tau Tau

1751767781389.png

Izuru was happy that Aimi seemed to be coming around to him. If this back and forth went well, Aimi and her friends could be coming around to HIS PLACE after this quest. Yet it seemed Bocchan's string of bad luck had other plans. No sooner had they ventured off the beaten path and down the trail dotted with ruins; they were met with the third obstacle of their quest. Judging by the fact both Aimi and Sue had gotten into formations with their construct companions. Izuru naturally assumed there to be a threat of the bandit variety. Given that they were escorting a VIP through this ruined stretch of land. Any action that would place too much pressure on the carriage driver and Bocchan would be detrimental to their quest. Although he had gotten a bit stronger recently. The dragonkin wasn't exactly a combat mage, more of a generalist caster. His spells lay in stacking advantages to his favor rather than outright destruction. Scooping up his cane and placing a hand on the carriage drivers shoulder. Izuru quietly pointed out that spot his magic had pointed out as safe. Hiding Bocchan and the carriage allowed more flexibility with how the party could handle this situation.

Leaping onto the gravel and eyeing up his surroundings. Izuru wracked his brain for a solution that wouldn't get him and the others killed. Currently they were gearing up for a battle where the enemy had a clear sight of them but THEY were in the dark about how strong the enemies where. Aimi's question about if he had any useful magic made the dragonkin wander if he should be truthful about how unnerved he was feeling. Instead he decided to try his luck with an out of the box solution that came to him at that moment. As if the neurons in his brain where firing off on all cylinders. Izuru declared loudly "BANDIT CREW INSPECTION BUREAU!", the words flowing right off of his tongue. "We've received some reports that an unlicensed group of bandits was operating out of these abandoned aqueducts. As a member of the BCIB, we need to know you're on the up and up. Get your leader out here so we can see his license. If we find you haven't been following regulations... you'll have to....VISIT THE BUREAU FOR THE LICENSING PROCESS" stated Izuru like any of these words meant something. He made sure to word in a way that implied going to the fictional bureau would be the most TEDIOUS thing in the world.

Actions:
1. Point Driver in direction of safe spot
2. Dismount Carriage
3. Bandit Inspector = Persuasion E + Deception E + Lucky F
 

Sue Watanabe

Sue shoot 60.png

Active skill: Barrier - 6 HP, 1 hour



Sue looked back as she dashed for cover, she heard Aimi yell after her in a way that expressed a new side of her which Sue hadn't seen before. Aimi worried about her... "You be careful too, Aimi!" Sue remarked before she dove behind the pillar.

Smiling, Sue sat against the warm wall of stone ruins and watched as the Emma bots loaded out from the carriage and deployed an all-encompassing force field much like the one Sue wore around her person. She was impressed! The capabilities of Aimi's designs always revealed new things Sue wouldn't expect.

While she looked up to assess the bandits, the draconian boy started threatening them with an inspection from the bureau. She joined in the act, yelling after him.

"Don't try anything funny! We got you outnumbered! We can talk this out or we can turn this place of yours into a crater! Your choice!" Sue cocked her pistol, watching for any movements.

 
Titles: [Beast], [Butler], [Born For This], [Native], [Motivated], [Good Boy], [Abiding Servant], [Spoiled Servant], [Mentor] - #3FA008
Languages: "Common", "<Bestial>"
Standing Grade: C, Mentor C, Attentive Student C
Asset Goal: Connection to Ryke Nobility F


Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia Tau Tau

Upon hearing both the heartbeats at the distance and the rattling of the chain, Fenrir's nostrils began to flare. The Wolfman had a vague idea of what laid ahead in wait: a trap waiting to be sprung upon the group. He wasn't about to remain idle, however.

With the other members of the party starting to play their own cards, the Butler would begin making his way towards the window of the carriage, furred paws moving outside and searching for purchase on its ceiling. He then would pull himself upwards and to the top of the carriage. His goal? The service ladder up ahead.

Flexing his strong muscles, the beastkin would attempt to propel himself towards it, relying on his lightning quick reflexes. [Action 1].

If his hands were to firmly manage to get a hold of the rail, he would begin to climb it, until he was on top of the old aqueduct [Action 2].

Assuming the Butler had managed to get on the same level as crossbowmen, he would begin to growl dangerously, looking at them while baring his sharpened fangs. "<Stupid runts! Trying this stickup is the last one you will ever do!>" He grunted in bestial. And, drawing one of his swords, he pointed the blades at the crossbowmen in F4. "Shah!" Slashing at nothing, the blade would slash through the air as the cut traveled towards the crossbowmen with impunity [Action 3].

1 - Fast F + Energized F - Grade F 0 Post Cooldown - Fast F (1) + Speed E (2) = mod +3
2 - Climb up the stairs - (Conditional if action 1 succeed)
3 - Phantom Slash (FLUX) - Fighting Style B E + Range D (100ft) + Energized E + Deflect F + Penetrating F - Grade E 0 Post - STR A(6) + Sword B(5) + Ability E (2) = 13 Base Effectiveness, -1 to opponent stat if they are attacking/counterattacking (Deflect F), -1 to opponent item contribution (Penetrating F) (Conditional if action 1 succeed)
CDs: C 2/3, D 2/2
 
Scoopy Catnip Scoopy Catnip - RP Goal: Ryke Adventurers Guild connection F
Tau Tau - RP Goal: Upgrade Ryke Adventurer's Guild connection
Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia - RP Goal: Upgrade Ryke Adventurer's Guild connection
Maxxob Maxxob - RP Goal: Connection Ryke Nobility F (for Saoirse)


Moss-slick cobbles flashed under the wheels as the carriage jerked to a halt. In the hush that followed Fenrir’s warning growl, mist curled around the ancient arches—and then the fight broke loose.




The escort strikes first​


  • Glass in flight Four Kevins vaulted straight up the aqueduct wall, claws sparking on stone. A heartbeat later the ledge at the mid-span erupted in shards and screams; two bandits tumbled off the parapet before they ever knew what had gutted them. Poison-tipped talons raked on, sending a spray of itchy crimson across the neighbouring nest.
  • Wolf on the ridge Fenrir’s boots thudded atop the carriage roof; a single leap carried him to the staircase rail. His momentum never broke—he swung up onto the deck, spun, and carved the air with a phantom stroke. The invisible blade sheared a weather-worn merlon in half and snapped through a second archer farther down the wall. Something clanged as the man’s crossbow flew apart against the stone.
  • Unsteady wards Behind them, Sue’s palm-pressed barrier flickered like a dying lantern and winked out; the rain-slick sprint to the fallen pillar had broken her focus. On the roadway the four Emma constructs locked into pylon form, runic etchings glowing—then sputtering dark. Their magic, too, failed to catch.



Bandit reaction—bolts in the gloom​


A coarse shout echoed high in the arches. Shadows shifted; crossbows angled down at wolf, glass and horse alike. An ogre the size of a brewery vat lumbered from behind a buttress, dragging a flail whose spiked ball alone weighed as much as a man.

Tw-tw-twang—twang!

Dozens of quarrels hissed out of the fog, aimed at:

  1. Fenrir on the deck
  2. The two Kevins nearest the ruined merlon
  3. The lead carriage horse

(Rolls have been made but final impact hangs in the balance—any instant counters, dodges, or barriers players throw up right now can still turn bolts aside.)

Below, Izuru’s voice cut across the chaos about the 'Bandit Crew Inspection Bureau'.

The claim earned only bitter laughter and a gobbet of ogre spit—but the pause before the next volley is yours to exploit.



Battlefield snapshot​


High ledge (20 ft)Ground road
Fenrir and four Kevins hold the western spans; two archers left in the east-most nests, one coughing from poison.Sue crouches behind rubble; Izuru stands near the horses; four Emma pylons hum, still gathering power; the ogre hauls its chain, eyeing the driver.


Quarrels are mid-flight, the ogre is one breath from charging, and mist still hides half the arches. Declare any immediate defensive reactions (dodges, shields, spell counters) before bolts land, or take the hits and push forward with your next moves.



Layout at the ambush choke​


imagem_2025-07-07_065145789.png

CEscort carriage (row 7, columns G–I)
=Paved road
LGravel lay-by / pull-off
SBase of the old service stair (ascends ^ up the aqueduct)
^Stair steps leading to the deck (20 ft elevation)
BCrossbow nests overhead (bandits 20 ft up, shooting down)
HChain-wielding heavy on the ground
RFallen pillar rubble (half-cover)
.Open, slippery cobblestones
 

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Battle theme: Misty cobblestone breakout
Music by Project Moon limbus company




Sue's eyes widened with surprise at the sight of the behemoth that emerged from behind the service stair. How the hell could something that huge just be chilling in a location such as this, not to mention allied with a bunch of run-of-the-mill bandits, she wondered? That is to say, maybe they weren't so run-of-the-mill after all. Sue wouldn't be one to underestimate an opponent by any means, but THIS was just plain unexpected.

Her original plan was to play along with the whole "bandit crew inspection bureau" facade, act all intimidating and work out a deal. And she was ready to shoot some mooks if they wouldn't cooperate. But...

With the ogre entering stage left with a whole spike ball and chain, all bets were off. This was not going to be a peaceful exchange by any stretch of the imagination. But she couldn't throw strategy out the window either. Stay calm, Sue. She took a deep breath and thought about her next move. By the looks of it the others already had the crossbow bandits distracted and had even killed some already. Sue had faith she could take her mind off them for a moment to find her next move. By the looks of it the ogre had a clear intention to go straight for the horse drawn carriage with all the important goodies inside. Sue's purpose was apparent.

And just as she was about to take him on all by herself, she noticed a clanking of metal behind her. Looking around, she found her Sue bots covering her and looking at her with their bright blue eyes, eager for instructions. Sue uttered a gasp of both shock and relief.

"Did you guys really follow me over here? Or... did Aimi send you after me?" she whispered hoarsely. "Nevermind... thanks for the cover, guys. Look up there."

Turning around again, Sue moved her aim to the ogre [Action 1] pointing her gun and focusing to get a clear shot. Then she commanded the Sue bots [Action 2] "Sue bots!! Open fire at that big ugly monster with the spike ball!" and while maintaining a steady aim she blasted a volley of bullets at the same ogre [Action 3] raining a hellfire of lead upon him with her happy trigger finger. "ERSTICK AN MEIN SCHEIß UND STIRB MOTHERFUCKER!!!" she yelled in fox.

1. Aim at the ogre
2. Command Sue bots to fire at the ogre
3. Open fire at the ogre
 
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