Arcanum - Summoner: Goodbye, Arcanum?

RK47 said:

The costly membership to the library,

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Text window said:

Librarian: Dead.

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Costly, yes, but for whom?

Another fantastic update. Keep that dark helm charm a-rollin'.

Words can't express how happy I am to see more updates.

friartucksduck said:

RK47 said:

The costly membership to the library,

Click to expand...

Text window said:

Librarian: Dead.

Click to expand...

Costly, yes, but for whom?

Another fantastic update. Keep that dark helm charm a-rollin'.

Click to expand...

I knew I forgot something in the update... Yeah, by the time I noticed it, I realized...hmm, would anyone notice?


Here you are.
Looks like we'll be spending a night in Tarant, after all.
It's going to be some time till we return. I'd like to say goodbye to some of Madame's girls.
*Winks* Understood, sir. Enjoy yourself.
Will do. The rest of you, please try to behave.
I know nothing of this city. I'll try not to raise attention.
Guess I'll try to find a decent cup of tea in this city...Hmph.

Later...


Hmph. Good riddance. *Tosses the paper to the rubbish bin and enter Madam Lil's*

Come on, Willow. It's time for another lesson...
Why, I missed you, Gilford...
Sorry...been away for business...I'm only dropping by for a day. Let's head to your room...

Later, inside the room...

*Lies in bed. Awake.* Hey...
Yes, Gilford?
Is it always like this?
What is?
The lamp...why is it flickering? Is it because I'm magical? Cause some technological shops won't even let me in to browse their goods nowadays...
Tee-hee, you ARE magical...but it's not just that, Gilford..
Hmm, do tell...
It's the recent murders, you see...Gilbert Bates. Heard of it?
What about him?
Madame told me without Mr.Bates, Tarant wouldn't end up like this...his steam engines kept the sewers and electricity running. It's basically what kept the street lamps lit up at night...but ever since he's dead...no one really knew how to fix or maintain it...
Wha-
That Appleby fellow, he tried to take over the responsibility, but couldn't keep up...things kept falling apart. Then one day, he died...authorities said a 'big dog' came and tore him apart in the middle of the night. Horrid!
I...is there no one in Tarant that could fix the steam engines?
*A worried look came to her face.* No...I don't think so, Gilford. If things turn rotten...the Madame said she might move out of here...
(I've...doomed Tarant.)

The light flickers again as the lamp struggles to maintain its charge.

Mmm, there it goes again...maybe we need to put your helmet away from it. It looks magical. *Stands up and move the helmet away.*
Yeah, maybe...*Yawns.* Willow..
Yes, dear?
I...I'll protect Tarant.
Aren't you sweet? But how? With magic?
I'll...I'll figure something out...come here..*hugs Willow.* I promise. *Closes his eyes.*

The lamp flickered for the last time and falters...darkness reigns over the room.

Yes...I'd pegged you for a patriot. We're in desperate need of men like you...the fate of Tarant rests in your hands....
The monarchy...well, how should one phrase it?..became,uh, "outdated" about 50 years ago.
Mr. Willoughsby is a powerful man, and his influence are far-reaching. Men such as he, you just never know what they're getting into.
Suffice it to say that the city has prospered under our new system of government.
You see? Two men, strangers really, can have a logical, rational conversation, and the next thing you know, things are being done. Good things, mind you, necessary things. Things that made this city great...
Yes, power has the tendency to corrupt most men...
Unlike ours, eh? Gilford?
Who-
It is time for us to act....The fate of Tarant...is in YOUR hands...


What....the hell? *Drops his staff.*
*Whines.*

Invasion - Hans Zimmer

NO! It wasn't me! I didn't do it!

*Whines.*

Huh.....huff....it was...a dream?
You better get up before the madam kick you out, Gilford!
I...thank you.

The morning sun shone into his eyes. He shields the glare with his palm, and from the corner of his eye, Gilford spots his helm, still sitting on the table across the room.

Hmm...

...could it be?

Rough night, Gilford?
Somewhat. Yes.
You seem uneasy, why are you holding on to that helmet? Aren't you going to wear it?
No...I don't need it any more.
That's fine...you can give it to me.
No. Geoffrey. I'll get you a better one.

Somehow I doubt it. But whatever. Caladon?
Yes. But before that, I need to make sure of something....


(He's alive! Uh..wait, that was stupid of me.) Hello, Mr. Willoughsby...have you time to talk?
What would you like to know about?
What, in your opinion are the major problems in Tarant?
Oh, we've many problems here in Tarant. The rise of criminal activity in the Boil is one of them. I'm taking...uh, personal measures...to alleviate that problem. We've also a rising orcish and half-orcish population here in Tarant...they've created UNIONS. *He spits out the name.* and have caused a general unrest among the laborers here in the city...
What personal measures are you taking in the Boil?
*He clears his throat, looking as if he thinks he said too much.* Oh, nothing. Let's forget I ever said it...
Come now, Willoughsby. *Wink.* You can trust me....
*He chuckles, winking back.* Ye-e-ess, perhaps you are the sort of chap I might bring into my confidence. I've a man who works for me...Sebastian's his name. I've contracted him to, uh..,take care of things in the Boil. If you're the sort of man who's interested in assisting in that sort of endeavor, having a drink at Caleb Malloy's in the Boil. He's usually around.
I'll do that, Mr. Willloughsby. Take care of yourself.
Ahem...I hope you're not thinking of going to the Boil, are you?
Mmm. Problem, Virgil?
Oh, no...not at all! But why don't we settle business in Caladon for now? The Boil's such a mean place to be...you don't want to step in there...
Well...okay. Let's head to the docks...
*Phew.*
Pussy.
Cut it out, Geoffrey.

However...

Excuse me, officer. But what is this place called?

I see. I'll take my chances, thank you very much.
Be my guest. But no one here will heed your cries for help as you lay dying.
Oh, I wouldn't worry about that...
Sir, why?
Virgil...*Puts on robe over his jacket.*
I've done some terrible things...Tarant...may never be the same again.
...but...you did it for..

My own selfish desires.
That's not true! You are the -
The Prophecy means nothing to me. I know I'm damned, Virgil. Allow me this act of selfishness and give what little light I could to this fair city I've doomed....*Steps towards the Boil and raises his staff.*

The thugs raised their arms and charged forth, eager to claim their kill.

You're not going in alone! *Charges in.*
Thank you, Virgil....
Don't forget about us!
Everyone...*Smiles.*

The Boil Massacre has begun.

Somehow I don't think that's the last we've seen of the helmet...

A clash of metal, explosion of magickal powers...and tearing of flesh later...


Good. Looks like this is Caleb Malloy's. Willoughsby's contact must be inside.


The watering hole's patrons eyed the party carefully as they gripped their mugs. However, upon noticing the three dead thugs outside, they decide to wait for a better chance...or reason to attack. Life is short in the Boil, why rush?

Greeting, sir. Have you a moment?
What is it you need?
I've spoken with Edward Willoughsby about you...
Yes...Mr. Willoughsby mentioned that someone might be stopping in here for a drink. *He looks around.* I can respect a man who's got the stones to make a trip over to the Boil...
Well...I suppose you could call me a 'concerned' citizen.
*He gives Alain an appraising look.* I see. He told you of his...'plans'...over here in the Boil?
He mentioned that. Perhaps you might elaborate?
Well...*He lowers his voice and leans closer.*...Mr. Willoughsby has his concerns about what's happening here in the Boil. Do you know anything about the place?
Not much, actually.
*He looks disappointed.* Hmmm. The Boil's not a place you want to walk into without knowing what it's about. Most places are like that, actually. Remember that...might save your life someday...
I appreciate the tip, Sebastian. You were saying?
Well, the Boil is a rough place. There are two gangs here which control most of the criminal activity...one is Clan Maug, and the other is Pollock's Gang.
Tell me more about them...
Well, Pollock Gang is a group of rag-tag ruffians who run things in the South Boil. Clan Maug is holed up in the Bentley, an old hotel just north of here. They're a tad smarter than the boys from Pollock's Gang, but no less deadly.
(That's two heads to decapitate...) Go on...
As you can well imagine, Clan Maug and Pollock's Gang aren't very fond of each other. There's quite a few disagreements between members of the gangs, and most of them end up with people dead...
Interesting. What does Mr. Willoughsby have to do with all of this?
Well, Mr. Willoughsby is an important man here in the city. He's a little more than concerned that the 'element' here in the Boil will spill over into the better parts of Tarant. And, of course, he just can't have that happen.
I take it that's where you come in?
*He smiles, wolfishly.* Exactly.
(Taking these gangs out should help ease Tarant's problems.) I'm in.
*He looks at Alain, eyes narrowing.* Really? You think you're cut out for this sort of work, friend?
(I've killed better men than these...) I'd be up for the task...
*He seems convinced.* Good, good. Listen, I'm not exactly sure what it is that you're looking for, but I might be able to help.
What is it you're proposing, Sebastian?
What I'm saying is...you help me take care of my problem here in the Boil, then I might be persuaded to help you with yours. What do you think?
Intriguing. Let's continue...
*He nods his head.* Well, as you know, Darien Maug and Pollock have always run things here in the Boil. I'm looking to take care of that particular location.
As do i. What are you looking to do?
Well, usually with all of the fighting that goes on around here, the gangs tend to weed each other out. But lately, the word is that Clan Maug is growing more powerful by the day...and that it's only a matter of time before Darien Maug takes over ALL of the operations here in the Boil.
So what?
If that happens, then what's to stop him from corrupting the rest of the city in the same manner? Get my meaning, friend?
Clearly. You want to get rid of Maug.
He's what I'm proposing. You get rid of Darien Maug for me, and I might think about helping you take care of your problem...whatever it might be.
Very well. It's a deal.
Good. When you've taken care of the problem, come back here and we'll talk further.
I don't know about this...
What's wrong, Virgil? They're just thugs.
They seem seasoned for a bunch of thugs..take caution, Gilford.
Point taken. Maybe I'll try to work with Pollock on this.
Mmm, I thought you intend to clear the Boil of all these cretins?
Shhh! Not to loud, man! You want the whole bar to attack us?
In good time, Geoffrey. Follow my lead.

I've a few questions, if you don't mind...
*He looks at Gilford, and smirks.* As a matter of fact, I DO mind, boy. You got any idea who yer' messing with in here? Being as weak and scrawny as you are...I'm surprised someone ain't already made ya into a blood puddle. *He snickers to his friends.*
I see. Perhaps YOU'D like to try, braggart.
*The man's eyes flare, then he almost smiles.* Hmmm. Perhaps you might have a little sand in you, boy. The Boil will teach you right quick as to just how much. I'll you some free advice...don't be sayin' words you don't mean, and don't back down to no one. Unless, of course, you run into Pollock...
Thanks for the advice. How does someone go about getting work around here?
Well...a bloke's gotta be careful about who he works for here in the Boil, lad. For example, let's say you were to take a job with Clan Maug. Well, me and my mates, being a part of Pollock's Gang, wouldn't take too kindly to that. You understand my meanin' lad? *He pats a thick cudgel strapped to his belt.* Yeah, a bloke's gotta be REAL careful....
(Jackpot.) And if I wanted to join Pollock's gang?
You might be smarter than you look, lad. You wanna work for Pollock, then I recommend you go and talk to Miranda Tears...she's the rough-lookin' lass that's standing up there by the bar. You just tell her we sent you over, and she'll decide if you're worth wastin' my time on...
Thanks for the tip.

One of your men told me I could talk to you about a job.
Oh they did, did they? *She looks Alain over.* Hmm...We might have a job or two for you. You now who you'll be workin' for?
Yes. He mentioned a half ogre named Pollock.
Yeah, his name is Pollock, and he's not a very understanding ogre, if you get my point. *Twin blades flash from beneath her armor.* A man makes one mistake with Pollock, and there's no more mistakes. Are we speaking the same language here, mister?
Of course....
Good. 'Cause what I'm trying to tell you is that you don't go into business with a man like Pollock unless you're going in all the way. Plenty of blokes thought they wanted to be in Pollock's gang, then saw too much and got scared, tried to run. *She smiles, wickedly.* That's where I come in...
And who might you be?
The name's Tears...Miranda Tears. I take care of things for Pollock, all sorts of things. Like makin' sure he don't get any soft-hearts workin' for him. Pollock doesn't like something or someone..*She gives Alain a direct look.*, then Miranda takes care of them.
Of course. Let's speak about the employment...
Yes, the job. Well, it's not too hard, especially for someone that's got a brain in their skull. We've been runnin' out of ale around here, and Pollock don't like it when he doesn't have his ale.
I see.(Go fetch.)
There's a small warehouse here in the Boil, just a few blocks north of here. It's owned by the Clan Maug, and it's full of ale. There's usually a guard out front, and one patrolling around it. Bring back a crate, and we'll talk about further employment opportunities.
Good as done.

Later...

Seriously? Stealing beer for a crime lord? In the Boil?
I have to agree with Geoffrey here, uh...let's..do something else...
Yes, let's just march up to their stronghold and start the slaughter!
That is NOT what I meant. We should...
Hush. Go.
Woof!
To battle.
Oh, bother. *Summons skeleton.*


The guard didn't stand a chance.



Later...



Take my advice, kid. You may have survived Maug's quarters...but Pollock's men are ogres...
Why don't you just shut up and let me do your job?

Fucking hell...
Yeah, that's what I thought, too. Let's go.


Pollock, I assume?
Yeah,...I be Pollock. That's a name you gonna be rememberin' boy...
Yes, I'm sure of that..
*He eyes Virgil, suspiciously.* Hey, don't I know you, over there? Pollock never be forgettin' a face...I know I seen yours. Maybe you've been to th Boil, before?
Virgil..?
I...I, uh...don't know what you're talking about, Pollock. I'm sure we've never seen each other before today. *He turns to Alain and whispers.* Be careful with him...I've heard, uh, rumors about him...
Virgil, are you sure you've never been here before?
This is NOT the time or place to talk about such things. Just watch yourself, and be smart about what you say.
(All right, Virgil.) I'm sorry, Pollock. You were saying...?
I be the leader of this gang. *He looks Alain over, his fists clenching and unclenching.* You like makin' noise? Pollock don't like people makin' too much noise. I be the leader of this gang. You savvy?
Of course, Pollock. I'm not here to make trouble.
*He grunts, smirking.* Good, you smart. You keep bein' smart, and you not end up dead, savvy? Pollock got a job for you, smart boy. You think you got the stones to do 'nother job?
I'd be gad to do whatever it is you need done...
Good boy. Smart boy. You listen to Pollock, and you not end up dead. There's a man I need you to kill...man they call Darien Maug. You know Darien Maug, boy?
Yes, I've heard of him..
Well...Maug be livin' in that big building at the top of the Boil...it be called the Bentley. Think he king of the Boil in that building...Pollock show him who king.
I understand, but is there anything you can tell me that might help?
Bently locked up tight, boy. And lots of orc trash watchin' it all the time, inside and out. You got to be a smart boy, not make a lot of noise. Got to sneak in, be smart, make him dead. Savvy? I got some things might help you, boy...might just help you not get dead. You a magicker or a tech-boy?
Gilford. If we're talking to him for another minute, I'll kill him.
(Patience.) I'd say I'm more of a magicker.
A magicker, eh? I got something might help a magicker like you. *He hands Alain three scrolls.* Use 'em good, boy. You only gonna get one chance at this. And don't come back here unless Maug a dead orc...if I see you before it happens, I kill you myself. Savvy?
And what do I get in return?
1500 gold. That's all you gonna get from Pollock, savvy?
Deal.
I thought he'd never shut up. Hmph!

Later...

Well, this is it guys...
Uh..hope you have a plan. They know we're here...the moment we get too close...
We kill the doorman, get in, find Maug, and kill him too.
Brilliant.
I prefer it no other way.
Guess I'll just shut up and heal...
Go!



Multiple dead orcs later...


So...you're Pollock's new boy...come to kill me, have you? *Draws his broadsword.*
You and every other bastards in this district.
I'll make you eat my boots...


Ha!
URGHHH-AHHHH! *Coughs blood.* You...you're gonna give everything to....that ogre...?
I guess you didn't hear me right the first time.
Whuh..?
I'm here to wipe the Boil clean of bastards like you...including Pollock's.
Koff..see you...in hell.
*Kicks Maug's head, the crime lord stops breathing.* We're done here.

Later...


I've taken care of that 'problem', Sebastian.
Yes...I'd heard about that. Nicely done.
So..you said you might be interested in helping me?
Yes...you seem a fairly competent fellow. What exactly are you involved in?
Well, that's a long story...
Wait, what? You're going to tell him everything?
I'm sure Seb's a reasonable man...(Of course, he doesn't have to know about Bates!)
*He waits a while before continuing.* So. You're telling me that all of this happened to you because you were the sole survivor of the IFS Zephyr disaster?
Yes.
Well, I'm not hero, but I do like a good fight. You seem the trustworthy sort, and I might be willing to lend a hand.
So, you'll join me then?
You can't be serious! A technologist like that...
Surely, friend. Why don't we be on our way...
Welcome aboard, Sebastian.
Have you lost your mind?!
Uh...we're not really into technological things, I mean, sir, just look at his equipment...
Oh, shush, he's perfectly capable of taking care of himself.


Sebastian is a technologist. His average stats is topped by 18 Perception and maxed out Firearms. He starts with 88 Technological Aptitude and will be hard to integrate into a magickal party. He is also capable of crafting electrical inventions as well as explosives. And his starter equipment is a dangerous looking Tech-Weapon: Charged Axe.



Slow speed, yet deliver punishing blows, the Charged Axe is capable of dealing 21-42 damage before STR bonus is taken into account. But Sebastian lacks the strength to wield both his shield and axe simultaneously.



His regenerative jacket is also of doubtful value. I don't know what it means by Accelerated healing, but he sure is not protected with DR +5 that jacket is giving him.

Seb, mind if Torian gets ahold of that sweet Axe of yours?
Depends, you got anything for me?
I think a man of your caliber would rather have a revolver instead. *Hands a fine revolver to Sebastian.*
*Examines the revolver. Whistles* It's a fine weapon indeed. Where did you get this from?
You wouldn't believe it if I tell you.
Try me.
Don Throgg's.
Bullshit.
Bulltrue.
Hahah. Amazing. I knew Captain Wheeler didn't have it in him to lure that bastard out of the factory on his own. Well done. It's a deal, my axe for this pistol. *Hands over the Charged Axe to Alain.*
Torian, use this.
*Grips the Charged Axe.* I can hear...a slight humming sound. It seems to vibrate on its own.
Magick! *Smiles.*
You just watch yourself, Derian-Ka, if you get any more magickal, that axe will explode in your face.
Hmph. We shall see....
So, where we headed to now?
We're paying a visit to Pollock...
Eh? What for?
He's paying me for the hit on Darien Maug.
Outstanding! Lead on, Gilford.

I love the whole Sith Lord-starts-feeling guilty and tries to make up for it plot twist.

What are the 3 scrolls anyway?

Shrink..Unlocking Cantrip...I forgot the last one...quite...useless.

Awesome as always. Sebastian has always been one of my favourite NPCs in Arcanaum, especially when coupled with a techy player character.

Oh, and the regenerative jacket is pretty cool. I found it very useful in my gunsmithy-electrician run: it really DOES regen your health very fast (it requires batteries for that - these are easy to find or craft) but it's best to have a spare suit just in case: baddies that damage armor can get pretty rough on the regen-jacket.

I don't have much to add except congratulate you once again for a fantastic LP.

If we could just bring this thread to the next page, this one is getting rather image-heavy.

Spectacular! Loved the dream sequence. Sebastian should make for some great dialogue. I wonder if that's the last we'll see of the helm.

Potato bump.


: x

PrzeSzkoda said:

Awesome as always. Sebastian has always been one of my favourite NPCs in Arcanaum, especially when coupled with a techy player character.

Oh, and the regenerative jacket is pretty cool. I found it very useful in my gunsmithy-electrician run: it really DOES regen your health very fast (it requires batteries for that - these are easy to find or craft) but it's best to have a spare suit just in case: baddies that damage armor can get pretty rough on the regen-jacket.

Click to expand...

I didn't even known the Regen Jacket is battery operated. Hmmm. Wonder if I could buy it back from that junk dealer? lol.

RK47 said:

PrzeSzkoda said:

Awesome as always. Sebastian has always been one of my favourite NPCs in Arcanaum, especially when coupled with a techy player character.

Oh, and the regenerative jacket is pretty cool. I found it very useful in my gunsmithy-electrician run: it really DOES regen your health very fast (it requires batteries for that - these are easy to find or craft) but it's best to have a spare suit just in case: baddies that damage armor can get pretty rough on the regen-jacket.

Click to expand...

I didn't even known the Regen Jacket is battery operated. Hmmm. Wonder if I could buy it back from that junk dealer? lol.

Click to expand...

I think Sebastian should able to craft one anyway.

PrzeSzkoda said:

RK47 said:

I didn't even known the Regen Jacket is battery operated. Hmmm. Wonder if I could buy it back from that junk dealer? lol.

Click to expand...

I think Sebastian should able to craft one anyway.

Click to expand...

I'm afraid not. He only gets up to the shocking staff.

Music: Cid Highwind


Make sure your revolver is loaded, Seb.
Wait, you're not thinking of...
*Nods.*
*Quickly checks his revolver's chamber and spins it. He finishes the inspection with a satisfying click.* After you, mysterious stranger.
*Grins.*


Yes. I've come here to get my money...
Yes..you earned it. Here your money. *He hands over the money.* You done a good job, boy. You always be a member of Pollock's gang.
Well, this is good bye, Pollock. *Holds an open palm against the half-ogre.*
Eh? You always be one'a us, boy...but I don't swing that way.
Wrong.

Ugh...that wasn't very WHOLE-some, was it?
*Laughs.* You'll fit right in, Seb.
I think we have company...*Turns towards the doorway.*
I've got this covered.


Pollock's men burst into the crime boss' home, their vision turned red as Pollock's body came into view.



A hellspawn tore them a new one.

Son of a gun! I don't think you really need my help! *Fires another round.*
An extra bullet always helps...*Unleashes another Harm.*

The smoke and blood settles...


*Dusts his robe.* That's it for the Boil...
It'll take a few years before they can rebuild. IF we let them rebuild, that is.
Let's go. I think it's time to have a chat with Mr. Willoughsby.
Gunning that diplomatic assignment?
Yep.
Well...takes a real man to impress him. I guess after what you done here in the Boil...you COULD try. I'll vouch for you.
Thanks, Seb.

Later...


I'm confident that I'll be up to the task. What needs to be done?
I see. Well, perhaps I will send you, if you're acceptable to my terms. You will be paid a sum equal to your performance, if in fact you are successful in convincing the King's advisors to agree to membership in the Unified Kingdom. If I find your performance acceptable, I will also train you to be a Master in the persuasive arts...
And how will my 'performance' be rated, sir?
Well, in any negotiation there is a compromise. You will be given a dossier which outlines the articles of membership in the Unified Kingdom. The less you have to compromise on those articles, the more money you will be paid. Are we clear?
Crystal. When do I start?
I'm glad you've agreed to do so. Travel to Caladon...when you've arrived there, you will meet a man outside of the Royal Castle by the name of Renard. He will counsel you just before the negotiations.
Was there anything else?
Here is the dossier I mentioned. Read it carefully...you will need to know it intimately before the meeting with the King's advisors. Renard will tell you where to meet me once the negotiations are done. And remember...these negotiations are very sensitive. Speak to NO ONE about them...understood?
Yes, of course. I take my leave of you. *Takes the dossier from Willoughsby's hand.* This is heavy...I'll read them later. *Leaves the office.*

As Gilford stepped out of the office, Jenks gave him a querying look.

*Holds the dossier proudly against his chest and salutes.*


It's getting late. Let's celebrate our victory with a nice toast at the Gentlemen's Club, shall we?
Mmm, why not?

The party passes by Kensington Park, when suddenly...


No, I've not the pleasure, I'm afraid.
Hah! That's obvious, or you would not have referred to it as a 'pleasure'. Well, if you happen to see him, could you tell him to get his bum over to the subterranean kiosk on the Kensington Broadway? He was meant to have met me here over an hour ago.
(You're damn lucky I'm in a good mood.) Any idea as to where this fellow might be?
Most likely at the bottom of a bottle somewhere, unless I miss my guess.
I'll let him know you're looking for him if I see him.
Splendid! Thank you very much, sir. Good day.

The band continued towards the Gentlemen's Club...inside Gilford queried a fellow gentleman at the counter...


(Ugh.) Who are you?
*He looks at Alain intently, unsuccessfully attempting to focus.* Why, I am the honorable *Hic* Shir M...Matt de Cesare, esh *Hic* quire...
Well...lucky me. I'm here to deliver a message to you from Thom Grak.
What? Oh, uh...what does that old tosser want now? *Hic*
He's waiting at the Kensington Broadway kiosk for you.
Oh he did, eh? *He lurches forward, and steadies himself at the last minute before falling on top of Alain.* Shtupid *Hic* bourgeoisie businesshman! Let him wait!
(Dear gods...the stench!) Well, get off me. My work here is done..*Pushes the drunkard off him.*

Suddenly, a series of loud footsteps were heard, "Look out! He's got a knife!" a patron shouted.

Gilford turned around and spotted the half-orc, Thom Grak, running with a knife pointed at the drunkard.

Finally, I get to kill de Cesare!
What the hell?

Faster than most eyes can see, the drunkard recovered and drew his pistol. The first shot caught the assailant square on the chest, stunning him. The half orc momentarily stopped in his tracks, a cough of blood signals his hand to drop the knife before he beats a hasty retreat. Obviously disoriented, he crashes past a group of patron before clawing against the wall. Matt didn't miss, the second bullet hits the half-orc and performed a lethal lobotomy, erasing whatever remained of the victim's intelligence.

*Looks up from his glass of spirits.* Mmm...Never bring a knife to a gunfight.


What? What are you talking about?
You're one of Grak's men, aren't you?
I met him on the street. He asked me to do him a favor, that's it.
*He pauses for a moment, looking at Alain.* I may be insane, but I believe you. Now get out of here, before I change my mind. *He lets go.*
Wait - what was all this about?
*He looks around.* We can't talk here...follow me.



The bartender gave a disapproving glare before holding forth an open palm.
Sigh, fine...here's 50 gold to clean up the floor. Sorry for the mess. Let's go, guys.
So much excitement....wheeeeee!
I think you had too much to drink, Geoffrey...
NONSHUSHNNSE! ZoMbiesss Drank Em All.
*Holds Geoffrey back.* Uhh, why don't you just talk to that Matt fellow while I take care of this drunken necromancer here...
Thanks, Virgil.
Hah. Weakling!


What is going on here? Who are you?
I can't give you those answers...yet. Suffice it to say that I am part of something that...well, even I don't rightly know exactly all that I am a part of. It is safer that way, in case I am caught...but I do know a few things, which I can tell you if you prove to me that you can be trusted. It looks like I am going to need your help, now that my presence here has been compromised.
Well, how do I do that?
Well, this may sound strange to you, but I'm here in Tarant to recover the skulls of the Ren'ar Siamese twins. Their skulls are evidence that...well, I will fill you in if you bring them to me.
Where would one find these skulls?
Well, that's where this becomes difficult. The skulls had been interred in a mausoleum in the Tarant cemetery, but when I went looking for them, they were already gone.
So where would I look for them?
I do not know. I believe they are still in Tarant in a warehouse somewhere, waiting to be shipped out.
Okay, I'll do it. I'll return with the skulls.
Must me? What about this business in Caladon?
It can wait. We're already in Tarant, this shouldn't take too long. There's only one other large warehouse at the docks...next to the one we cleared of rats.
Sheesh, don't remind me.

Later...

Blast! It's locked.
Here, let me do that.

Impressive.
Pure brilliance.
Blah. Magick would've blasted it off its hinges.
And alerted the guards across the blocks...
Hmph!
Come, let's find the skulls.. Oh, hello there...

A half ogre guard rushes at Gilford!


Bye.

A search of the warehouse revealed a locked crate which Sebastian handily picked.


Mmmm. Hope these are the skulls...Doesn't look remarkable to me.
Let's just...give it back to de Cesare and leave.

Later...


You were going to tell me what was going on here, now?
I can tell you what I know, and a man named Arthur Tyron can fill you in on the rest.
Please, continue.
Some years ago, bizarre breeding experiments were begun in secret which would eventually affect the balance of power here in Tarant. The Ren'ar twins were the first viable offspring produced by these experiments. Their skulls are simply the first piece in a long chain of evidence we are gathering to expose them all!
A likely story. Who is doing this? What was the purpose of these experiments?
I have told you all I dare...Tyron can fill you in on the rest. I need you to bring him the skulls, if you would. It would be far too dangerous for me to search him out...
(Affect the balance of power here in Tarant? Really?) Okay, I'll do it.
Good! He was in Black Root, last I knew. Perhaps you can still find him there.
Okay, I'm on my way.
Seriously?! Sir! That's out of the way!
Oh come on, Virgil. Just a boat ride. C'mon! I'd like to get to the bottom of this mystery!

Later...


I suppose we could catch a train to Black Root.

Oh well...that's too bad, Ghost.
*Whines.*
That's not gonna work on me, boy! You just wait here, I'll be back after I talk to this Tyron fellow...
*Whine whine*
See you, mutt!
Okay, the dog stays, let us get on board.

Oh for the love of...
Arf! Arf!
Argh. Come along then...

...Damn it! Screw Black Root, let's head for Caladon. NOW!
*Sighs* About time, sir.
*Pets dog.* Welcome back, fella!
Arf arf!

The party sets sail for Caladon later that day...

About that twins quest

Hate it when that happens. It always makes investing in Conveyance magic seem like a good idea. Loving Sebastian's sense of humor.

Ah, fuck it, I'm gonna replay Arcanum because of this LP in the end.

I hope you're proud of yerself, RK47. : x

PrzeSzkoda said:

Ah, fuck it, I'm gonna replay Arcanum because of this LP in the end.

I hope you're proud of yerself, RK47. : x

Click to expand...

I'm busy playing the modern Arcanum remake. Guns, magic and swords? All there.

RK47 said:

PrzeSzkoda said:

Ah, fuck it, I'm gonna replay Arcanum because of this LP in the end.

I hope you're proud of yerself, RK47. : x

Click to expand...

I'm busy playing the modern Arcanum remake. Guns, magic and swords? All there.

Click to expand...

I like the setting, but the gameplay is just not there. Worth a look if you really must have your steampunk fix. The voice-acting is top notch and high productions value even for side quests, but the whole gameplay concept cannot save the game.

RK47 said:

I like the setting, but the gameplay is just not there. Worth a look if you really must have your steampunk fix. The voice-acting is top notch and high productions value even for side quests, but the whole gameplay concept cannot save the game.

Click to expand...

So you're saying that Fable 3 is the spiritual successor to Arcanum?.....a djkfs;j'asksa'ks'a




Only an update to this Arcanum LP can redeem you, BRO.

No, this is an attempt to attract controversy and pad the thread till next page therefore avoiding image-crowding.

The next update is at least 40 screens without the dialogue portraits. Unless you don't mind waiting minutes for the page to load. (I fucking hate it.)

To be honest, Fable 3 actually matches Arcanum in terms of setting. The game takes you through cold, snow-covered peaks, swamps, a small hamlet, and industrial, often polluted towns with many child laborers toiling in steam factories.

Now, if the gameplay isn't so retarded...I might heartily recommend it.

The crux of modern cRPG gaming. The more they concentrate on superficial things, the worse the RPG mechanics get (if they are there at all).

Plus a potato bump.

: x

I love this potato smiley. It must relate to my soul.