A Foreign Land

Seymour Butz

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>>1496014

"Seymour..."

The boatcat seems to do the closest equivalent of an impressed whistle.

"Never heard of a name like that. Why do you travel to a land such as ours?"

...You remember your reasons, and why they're your own, don't you?

I left to escape my humdrum life of work and loneliness to pursue adventure and new horizons. And to hang out with the chibi animals

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>>1496160

"So, it is excitement you seek, hm?"

He gestures to his left, despite no coastline being visible yet.

"There is a bazaar on the southern coast. Many stimulating experiences await you there. There is also an expanse of wildlands beyond that, and a river leading to a lake of wayward spirits. Does any of that interest you?"

What sort of commodities are available at this bazaar? Any local specialties?

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>>1496192

"Oh, where to begin?"

The boatcat slouches a bit on his side of the boat. He seems to be reminiscing.

"Delicious food prepared with skillful hands, dances performed by beautiful maidens at the expense of the local nobility, trinkets and tools that are bartered from all around the world."

He looks up.

"...Though, it's best to not spoil the experience should you choose to go there."

I look forward to seeing it myself. Can you tell me about the port we're travelling to?

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>>1496229

"Great Lock Harbor."

Boatcat's voice becomes an awed whisper.

"A megastructure designed to allow certain ships to deliver directly to the nobility's front door!"

"Of course, ships of any size or class can dock wherever they find room. We just need to slip through to the Commoner Quarter."

Do you have any further questions?

Thanks for the info boatcat. I dont believe I caught your name?

We should head to the Commoner Quarter. From there, to the wilds. Simple surroundings for a simple man.

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>>1496273

"Oh, sure."

The boatcat climbs onto the edge of the boat.

"I am called Mooc."

Maintaining eye contact, Mooc hops off of the small boat and into the ocean.

He does not resurface.

Well. Remove your hat in respect for Mooc's presumed demise, then continue rowing in the direction you were headed before boatcat suicide

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>>1496307

You place your pith helmet aside, remorsed by the thought that you seemed to be making friends.

After about an hour of rowing the waters, you finally see a coastline, dotted with buildings with an unfamiliar architecture. However, you don't see anything resembling the "great lock" that Mooc had described.

A fairly large vessel catches you by surprise, approaching the starboard bow.

As it closes in on your position, you see a stout gentleman standing at its helm, wearing a large and festive helmet. He stares you down as the vessel becomes close enough for you both to communicate verbally.

Ask Jamiroquai man if there's somewhere you can dock your boat

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>>1496350

Luckily, the helmeted individual seems to understand your request.

"Eero!" he interjects.

"Not a convict, it seems. Too much of a hat."

His accent is very thick, but his gregarious nature seems apparent.

He points towards the shoreline.

"Get over there. A dock next to a brickhorn. The shoreboys'll tell you your bounties, if any y'ave."

You squint towards where he indicates, and you indeed see a cone-shaped building made of red bricks.

Thank captain Jay Kay and head towards the dock. Also check the boat for loot and check inventory

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>>1496393

As you approach the dock, you decide to take stock of your supplies. Your handy trenchcoat conceals:

-1 Festerbool 1399 Revolver with 5 shots
-2 reloads for said revolver
-1 trenching shovel
-a sacklet of forty 'nunks,' valuable seeds that can be used as currency almost anywhere.

Mooc didn't have anything else on the boat besides two rations and an oar. You can take those, if you wish.

Take rations and prepare to dock

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>>1496424

You tuck your rations into an empty pocket in your attire.

Disembarking from the possibly deceased Mooc's dinghy, you spot two 'small lugs' standing at attention in front of you. They are wearing helmets similar to the gentleman on the large vessel from earlier, though not as complicated in design.

Say hi to the Jamiroquailets

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>>1496445

As you begin to speak, both of the small lugs tense their bodies suddenly. Their expressions do not change as they proceed to break into a swerving sprint, as quickly as their tiny legs can carry them. Both lugs are running in a circle in a synchronized fashion, neither one overtaking the other.

Politely watch their bizzare mating ritual

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>>1496463

After a good five minutes, both lugs are now far too exhausted to continue their rotation routine. While still not verbally acknowledging you, they appear frustrated, as though you were supposed to do something very important.

Bow apologetically and continue on to the door

>>1496507
>"whaaaaat!? What should I have do!" I cry and start funky dancing in imitation of them.

Was this quest inspired by the terrible quest guy?

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>>1496555

Sensing some hostility, you break into a desperate jig on the end of the dock. Both small lugs do not respond, verbally or physically. Seems they've been drained of a welcome.

>>1496920
Apologize for not understanding the ways of the lug people

Go into the Commoner Quarter

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>>1496957

Apologizing to the lugs as you awkwardly breeze past them, you enter the "brickhorn" to inquire about the way to the Commoner Quarter.

Inside of the red brick building, you see a one-eyed Chartermaster wearing a very intricate helmet. He politely waits for you to speak.

>>1496984
Ask him if we have any bounties, and if so what they are.

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>>1496990

"Ah, trader."

He seems to relax himself a bit.

"The Charter King in Scumbazaar has been wantin' another drop-a-dop."

He places a mesh sack on the counter, containing something wrapped in cloth.

"He'll be right pleased with the Charter Con-Glom if he sees this. Deliver it to 'em, and you'll net some of sum."

Hey senpai I'm back. Anyway, ask the fabulous-hatted man for directions, if he would be so kind

Oh wait shit it changed my id. Im the dude who was replying at the start to clarify

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>>1497035

The chartermaster pulls a string, lowering a hand-drawn map into view.

"Here, up the road, left at the fork," he indicates. "Watch your hides, howev. Convicts're all over, eero."

>>1497066
Seems clear enough. Take the bag and head out.

>>1497066
Ask about his flamboyant yet alluring headgear

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>>1497077

You wish the chartermaster well and head out towards the Quarter, tucking the mesh sack into the confines of your coat.

The only real choice now is whether you want to follow the path or cut through the woods.

Be a real man and go through the woods

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>>1497139

The chilly weather gives you the sense that the woods are safe to travel through. The moment you enter the tree line, however, you are accosted by a hooded convict!

Ask him what he wants, and if there's no reply point your gun at him.

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>>1497171

You sternly demand the convict's intentions. He merely stares at you under a shadowy hood.

You begin to reach for your handy revolver, before you hear the very audible stamping of feet on the forest floor behind you.

You are now surrounded by three convicts.

>>1497191
No good.
Try to face all the convicts at the same time, and point the revolver at them menacingly

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>>1497204

In a swift military reflex, you whip out your loaded revolver and place your back against a tree, keeping every convict in your sight.

Your readiness betrays you, however, when the tree you pushed against falls over, revealing that it was but a facsimile containing three additional convicts.

Meanwhile, the initial trio of convicts has regrouped, now forming a roving band of eight convicts.

Regretfully offer them your hat, your most prized possesion

>>1497220
Make a tactical withdrawal, preferably out of the forest.

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>>1497230
>>1497231

In a last-ditch act of desperation, you throw your priceless heirloom onto the ground in front of the growing gang of convicts, hoping to distract them as you hoof it through the undergrowth.

Fear causes your now-exposed hair to stand on end as convicts continue to emerge from hiding spots and more false trees come apart at the seams.

You think you can see an exit up ahead, a gateway of bronzed light. You can hear many lightly-clothed footsteps pattering on the forest floor behind you...

Book it towards the exit, while yelling a witty quip at the convicts

>>1497260
Seconding. We'll have to retrieve the hat later, though - this bare bonce will never do.

>>1497261
Indeed. I think 'hats off to you!' might be a sufficiently witty quip

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>>1497260

Even though you're not entirely sure of your own escape, you decide to taunt the potentially infinite number of pursuers behind you.

You don't think they can hear your clever quips over the sudden and very boisterous hail of gunfire, which you madly throw yourself to the ground to avoid.

Wait, are they shooting or being shot at? Either way, try to find some cover

>>1497428
Screw that, find the convict with our hat!

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>>1497428

You scurry up to what appears to be a city wall, your heart races as you find your footing and turn around. The heavy gunfire is coming from the Militiamen standing behind the parapets above, and they're making quick work of the straggling convicts.

Run through that door and surrender if you see angry militiamen pointy shooty bang sticks at you

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>>1497635

You sidle along the wall, thinking that the militia hadn't seen you, and slip into the open gate hoping to find a hiding spot. However, a man who appears to be the Militia Captain immediately catches your eye.

"Eero, a civilian!"

His demeanor seems unfittingly calm.

"The convict horde failed to abduct another wayward soul! Feel free to move on to the Commoner Quarter! The militia can handle its own snout."

He does a disciplined about-face and marches away while shots continue to ring out over the wall. Seems this sort of action is commonplace.

Try and find someone to ask for directions to Scumbazaar

>>1497756
Cautiously creep out to retrieve the hat, then >>1499106

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>>1499555

After the gunfire dies down, you peek through the city gate to find that one of the convicts was kind enough to posthumously deliver your hat back to you!

Now that you've found your bearings, you figure the best place to get directions would be the town square, provided you don't want to scavenge about first.

>>1499639
Take a look at that poster, maybe it'll tell us a bit about whoever just attacked us.

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>>1499651

You closely observe the poster on the outside wall. It depicts a detailed drawing of your average run-of-the-mill convict, and clearly states that people who want to enter the Commoner's Quarters should never act like, dress like, or associate with convicts in any way, shape, or form.

>>1499679
> We're upstanding. Walk into the city through the gate.

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>>1499688

You continue into the city, past the militia's barracks. After a short walk you find yourself in front of what appears to be a memorial statue. Several paths converge here, one leading north, one leading south, and one that leads to a very large structure that peers over the roofs of the city. There's nobody around to ask for directions, but you can always try knocking on someone's door.

>>1499742
Examine the statue and marvel at the local culture.

Hey senpai, I'm back. I see we've reached the return of the hat saga. Also, I second admiring that spiffy looking piece of art

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>>1499771

You approach the memorial, which appears to be a simple golden ball held up by a pole. A plaque on the base of the statue reads:

"In Memoriam of Ambon Eero, a Hated King and a Reckless Spender."

Seems these people have a contemptible relationship with the nobility.

Leave with a newfound appreciation of art, and knock on someones door in the hopes of getting some directions

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>>1499960

You knock on the most inviting-looking house in your vicinity. The wooden plank door creaks open, revealing a lopsided man wearing a woolen onesie. He politely waits for you to speak.

>>1499989
Ask for directions to the bazaar

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>>1500036

The lopsided man pulls on a small ring attached to the ceiling, causing a hand-drawn map to lower into view.

"Yeero, ya go south from 'eero. Go 'round the church and you'll see the Scumtrence to the Scumbazaar. Watch for the Constabulary, y'seen't?"

Ask about the constabulary

>>1500141
Seconding.

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>>1500141

Lopsy starts to speak in a hushed voice.

"Oo-ree, crookit constabs! Th'll'nab anythin' from anyone that dun'look right too'em. An'you, myguy, are a deffin' target."

Ask if he knows any shortcuts, or if theres a way to make yourself look less suspicious

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>>1500244

"Jus'tick t'the alleyways, eero."

He begins to shut the door.

"Safe are numbers."

The door shuts completely and you can hear a metallic click.

>>1500283
I guess that's that then. Head over to the bazaar, keeping an eye out for the constabulary.

>>1500286
Seconded

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>>1500286

You begin to make your way down the southern road, walking past what appear to be tenement buildings, passing the occasional civilian here and there. This place seems oddly desolate for a city.

The church is in sight now, which you must go around to reach the Scumtrence. Near you is a darkened alleyway that seems to diverge in the same direction.

You don't see any constables nearby, but you feel you should err on the lopside of caution.

Inspect manhole. If it cant be lifted, go around the church, avoid the alleyway. Especially after what happened in the forest.

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>>1500352

You insert your finger into the holes on the manhole and try to tug it open. While the manhole isn't locked in place by any mechanism, it's very heavy, and you can't get good leverage on it.

Just as you give up, the manhole is lifted up by the head of a sewercat. She politely waits for you to speak.

>>1500389
After a brief surprise pause ask him '...Have we mat before?'. Also ask him if he can get us around the city sewers.

>>1500424
*Her, I'm sorry

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>>1500424

The greenish-furred cat winces a bit.

"Your face... I have not seen..."

She pauses to whiff the air.

"But your scent... There's something familiar."

Her head sinks a bit into the manhole.

"Do you boat often?"

>>1500473
'I came to this land on a boat, a chibi cat named Mooc has lead me here. May I inquire if you can grant me passage through this city's sewers? My name is Seymour by the way, Seymour Butz.' *Takes off hat*

>>1500499
Seconding. Try not to mention his untimely demise.

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>>1500499

The sewercat seems almost flustered by your revelation, as well as your chivalry.

"Ooh, ooh yes! A boatcat's scent! Ooh, lucky!"

She tilts her head enough for the manhole cover to slide off onto the cobblestone street, where it makes a heavy metallic clang.

"Yes, come dither down! The sewer can reach even the most secluded sector of this city!"

Her head moves aside and now you can only see darkness in the hole at your feet.

>>1500536
Quickly glance at the poster then proceed into the hole.

>>1500536
Thank her and step down the sewer while maintaining caution in the dark. Ask her if she knows Boatcat and directions to Scumbazar

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>>1500540

You take a quick look at the poster. The poster's design is simple, just a large symbol with an old-language word boldly written over it. The word is often interpreted to mean "golden health." You suspect that this is a religious poster.

>>1500564
Ask Sewercat about local religion and faith

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>>1500590

You shout your question into the depths below, but don't get an immediate answer. You pause to wonder where the sewercat went, when suddenly a large clawed finger with greenish fur hooks into the hem of your coat.

>>1500627
Ask the finger where Sewercat went

Resist futiley

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>>1500656

Just as you open your mouth to speak, the claw yanks your coat hard enough to pull you into the manhole. After a short period of disorientation, you find yourself unceremoniously hung upside down.

"I apologize," says the gigantic sewercat.

"I did not realize you were scared of heights."

Compliment sewercat on his buffness, and ask if he can perhaps take you to the bazaar

>>1500694
'...Are you naked?'

>>1500694
Try not to be too alarmed, and ask her her name. Don't be impolite to the hulking monster in front holding you a few stories in the air.

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>>1500711

The massive sewercat gently places you on your feet on a stone floor. You ask her about her name.

"I am called Mull Flu." Mull takes a few lumbering steps backward, allowing you to see the many tunnels that crisscross the chamber you both occupy.

>>1500702

You tell Mull Flu that you are trying to get to the Scumbazaar.

"Ah, ah, good choice! Many goodies lie under the Scumba!" She takes a few lumbering steps towards a tunnel with a fortunately high ceiling.

"We shall go this way! No constabs to con or stab!"

'Many thanks, Mull Flu! Lets us traverse these sewers!' Then follow her I guess

You notice piece of cloth between her legs, then pull your eyes up to see the bare breasts and ...chest hair? You scratch your hat in confusion but choose not to disturb Mull Flu with questions she might deem impolite. Instead you ask Mull if it's her first name and ask about her origins.

>>1500765
While walking, ask about religion here and the hats. Befriend the behemoth kitty of doom.

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>>1500774
>>1500788

You follow behind Mull Flu, who can move rather swiftly despite her exaggerated proportions. Her footfalls echo throughout the sewer environment.

You make friendly chat during your excrement excursion. Mull Flu speaks of how she's been in the sewer since she was very small, how she survives from the scraps and garbage that passes through the waterways, and how she longs to meet others of her kind.

"The boatcat's scent... It is lucky. I always seek to help those who rub arms with my distant kin."

She stumbles a bit.

"It is very difficult to leave this place."

>>1500868
'You never left the sewers?' Seymour Asks

>>1500868
Ask how to break her out of these sewers. She needs freedom and company, and I miss mooc.

>>1500894
Seconded

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>>1500894

"Not for a very long time."

She looks at one of the small manhole entrances above.

"Most exits are too small, and the big ones are either locked...or crowded."

Just as she finishes, she gestures to a tight tunnel leading to a ladder.

"Scumba is up there. Lots of lights and excitement to be had."

>>1500943
Ask her how we can get her out from the sewer. Dynamite, Big Power Drills? Tell her that you got something to sell and get money in order to let her out.

>>1500943
I'm getting some strong Fallen London vibes here.
I like it, nice quest OP.

'I'll come visit you again Mull. If you want help leaving one day, I'd be happy to assist you. Thank you for leading me here'

>>1500964
>>1500999 (Checked)
>>1501002
These, then to the Scumba.

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>>1501002

Your heartfelt thanks echo in the chamber. After the last din of the reverberation has died off, everything is silent for a moment.

Perplexed, you turn to face Mull Flu.

She is smiling.

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>>1501034

...

>>1501034
Give her a hug then plan to make a distraction on the far side of town away from one of the unlocked big exits to help her escape.

'Good to meet you, my fine sewercat friend. I shall return soonish'

>>1501038
You smile back

>>1501048
Oh wait shit that isnt the smile I expected. Move nervously towards the ladder, with a hand on your concealed weapon.

>>1501038
>>1501058
She's ugly, but she has a big heart. I don't know, meow at her or something.

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>>1501048

You say your final goodbyes and clamber up the iron ladder, managing to push the manhole cover out of the way with some oomph.

You find yourself in a derelict building. The one-room interior is dusty and dimly lit from the light peeking through the boards on the windows. A large green finger moves the manhole cover back into place.

The inside of the building is completely bare save for a few pipes and spiderwebs. You can hear commotion outside, most certainly the noise of haggling townsfolk and annoying shop criers.

>>1501084
I can't tell if it's a menacing creepypasta smile or a heart of gold goon smile. Eh, ignore my prior posts about this, I'll let you guys figure it out

>>1501102
Let's go outside, then.
Maybe look out of that window with the wood planks first.

Peek through the window

>>1501102
Look through the keyhole of the door.

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>>1501112

You peer through a gap in the boarded window. After your eyes adjust to the light outside, you can make out a number of men wearing pointy iron helmets. Judging by the amount of accolades that cover their uniforms, you think they might be part of the local constabulary.

They appear to be preoccupied with chatting up a few shopkeepers.

>>1501146
Great, we can open the door and sneak behind them, deeper in the Bazaar!
... Uh, why did we want to go here anyway?

Cautiously open the door and peek out, keeping an eye out for cover

>>1501164
Seconding.

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>>1501164

As casually as you can muster, you crack the door enough to slip out and start a merry stroll behind a few cloaked individuals. You watch the constabs from the corner of your eye, who are still focused on their little pow-wow.

>>1501153

You feel around in your jacket pocket, making sure the mesh sack is still there, containing an object that you must deliver to the Charter King of the Scumbazaar so you can get paid a bounty, as requested by the Chartermaster. Remember?

>>1501220
Move out of sight of the constables and make your way into the heart of the bazaar. Surely the charter king will be there.
Also be sneaky.

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>>1501259

You make your way past the initial riff-raff at the scumtrance, doing your best to avoid making eye contact with anyone who looks even slightly intimidating.

You now stand at Scum Square, the heart of the Scumbazaar. Shops, stands, boutiques, and brothels lie shoulder-to-shoulder in a neat circle. In the center, there is a very simple stand with a large canopy above it, staffed by a single shop-shape. He has a bored expression on his face.

Will you seek out a specific type of shop to inquire about the Charter King, or perhaps try the central stand?

>>1501321
The stand has already peaked your interest.
"Eero, lovely day, isn't it? I could help but notice the noteworthy position of your stand. May I inquire as to what you specialise in?"

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>>1501429

The shop-shape doesn't change expression as he turns to face you.

"Yes, yes, 'eero' and all that. Thank you for choosing the Infoporium. Anything you could possibly want to know, you can have for the right price."

You notice the shop-shape has no discernible accent compared to most of the people you've met so far.

'I couldn't help but notice your accent. You from around here?'

"Where can I find the Charter King?" Also offer to pay him with a pebble from the ground. Our seeds are too valuable for this grumpy guy.

>>1501539
>>1501542
Supporting

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>>1501539

"Ah, so you noticed. That information I can give you for free."

His expression slowly evolves to one that simply drizzles smugness.

"I was appointed by the nobility of this city to help mitigate the spread of certain bits of sensitive information. The nobility is very proud of their network of knowledge in this fair city."

"As I am of a higher education, my accent is more refined than that of your common rabble. Any further questions?"

>>1501802
Ask about the ruffians outside the city, why were they hiding in trees? Why didn't they have respectable hats?

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>>1501950

The shop-shape takes out a small notepad and begins to scribble down variables.

"Hm... common knowledge... that's about 2 nunks..."

He sets his notepad down and then begins another statement as though reading lines from a badly written screenplay.

"The 'convict infestation' began fifteen weeks ago when Overwarden Donogal Eschelon sent a miscommunication to a freighter that was transporting prisoners to an offshore penal colony, which washed up on shore with about fifteen-hundred criminals on board. The roving bands of convicts continue to plague our forests and roadways even after a prolonged period of regular armed combat."

He pulls out his notepad again.

"Anything further, sir?"

>>1501989
This guy is going to charge us for every question we ask. Best to be careful and cut our losses.

"Nope. No more questions."

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>>1502021

"Very well. 2 nunks, please."

You fiddle with the sacklet in your coat and place two nunks on the counter. You now have 38 nunks remaining.

"Thank you, sir. Please enjoy shopping at any of the other facilities the Scumbazaar provides."

What sort of store will you seek out?

>>1502096
How hungry are we? The Boatcat recommended the food, and it would be a good way to strike up a casual conversation.

Let's browse the wares of several shops while we look for the Charter King, making sure to avoid the corrupt constabulary of course.

>>1502096
Lets avoid the shifty info-shop guy as well. It's a scam.

>>1502198
In the mood
for some local food
Feeling keen
For street cuisine
An edacious wish
For bazaarian dish

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>>1502198
>>1502781

Your stomach rumbles as you turn your back on the Infoporium. You realize you haven't eaten since yesterday, and having several close brushes with death has worked up quite an appetite.

The first stand that catches your eye is a well-shaded stall with a three short stools at the counter, staffed by a darkbird.

A dangling sign on the rafters reads "Crofu."

>>1502948
That sounds like the thing. Order some Crofu while making small talk with the owner.

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>>1502992

You take the leftmost seat at the stall and the owner turns to face you. She speaks in a delightful sing-song tone.

"Ayo ayo, it is a welcome."

She waves a slender spatula in the air.

"A special on the milk-vegetable loaf! Goes well with a frothing stout!"

She then gestures to a flaming wok in the back of her stand.

"Or a manfoot dish! Tender chunks! No hair! Meat for the soul!"

>>1503020
Milk veggie loaf.

Compliment thier very fine hat.

>>1503086
This, and a frothing stout.

That loaf legit sounds tasty desu

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>>1503086
>>1503119
>>1503124

"A wise choice, sir of sirs! At once!"

She promptly sets forth to her range, tossing many different veggies and liquids into an iron pan, deftly tossing the ingredients every few seconds.

You make small talk as she performs her culinary feats, mentioning her fine headwear. Her name is Ahk, of the House Hrahk. She, too, is from a foreign land.

A square plate is placed in front of you with a large rectangle of white, spongey substance. Ahk carries the pan over to the counter and ladles a generous helping of steaming vegetables in a creamy sauce on top of it. With that, a tall glass containing a dark-colored alcoholic drink.

Ahk proudly sets her tools down as she presents the dish to you properly.

"Ayaya, it is a prayer! Enjoy your meal!"

You pay 4 nunks for the whole shebang.

When you're done eating, thank her for the delicious food, and ask her if she perhaps knows where we could find the Charter King

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>>1503174

Your meal is unlike anything you've eaten before. It's simultaneously light and satisfying, and the frothing stout settles heavily in your stomach, making you feel a tad tipsy.

Ahk sidles up to the counter again to take your plate, and you compliment your cooking.

"Cro ayo, it is thanks."

You politely ask if she knows anything about the Charter King of Scumbazaar.

"Aya Ha, of course. The Charter King is often out and about during a business day. He passed by early today, his wives with him. Possibly taking them to a boutique?"

Ask where his usual residence is located and go there. Someone that important must have a butler and refreshing drinks for guests until he returns.

>>1503442
Supporting

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>>1503442

She points down the street.

"The shaded entrance. The Charter King owns the largest hotel in the city. That is where he typically goes to rest or relax."

Let's go then ! Take a leisurely walk towards that hotel, keeping an eye out for evil constabularies.

>>1504372
Seconding. Look over the other shops as we pass for anything interesting.

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>>1504372
>>1504383

You make your way down the street, taking in the sights of the crowds and the salespeople.

Just outside the Charter King's hotel, you spot three stalls that pique your interest:

A completely cloaked jewelry shop, a doctor's open-air stall, and a poet's roost.

You consider shopping around before continuing to the hotel...

I am intrigued by the poet's roost. Let's see what this guy has to offer...

I'm going to sleep by the way, I will drop by next morning. You should continue this fun adventure for a while, I like it a lot. If the thread is still up tomorrow morning I will continue to contribute. Love your drawings.

>>1504912
>poet's roost

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>>1505322
>>1505363

You walk up to the poet's roost, staffed by a gaily-dressed bard. He flails his arms as he performs a propositional prose.

"Traveler! A man from many a world away! We have exquisite writings and musings that can produce emotions that you've never even heard of! Speak, and I shall oblige!"

I want to feel extreme despair.

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>>1505802

"An educated choice, sir! A complex emotion with cathartic aftertones!"

The young bard produces a strange stringed instrument and spends a few seconds fiddling with the tuners.

He plucks the strings in a delicate rhythm, composing a melody that makes you think of wilted roses.

"Summer's death
And Autumn's life
Here to stay
Like a sad bird."

He pauses to gauge your emotional response.

The magnitude of this despair is insufficient. I want to weep at the futility of life.

The poem was nice but I'm not feeling dead enough inside to be satisfied

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>>1506624
>>1506758

"Of course, of course, sir! Just honing in on that sweet spot of despair!"

The bard fiddles with his fiddle a bit more, and then begins to pluck away, generating a noise that reminds you of ancient ruins and overgrown gardens.

"Another tenfold he rode,
Making way to his woman,
But all twas in vain
She's marrow in grave."

"Foul beasts of hollow
Did gnaw at her neck
This knight, he was late
To defend his poor waif."

Kneel and cry. That was perfect.

Pay the poetand check out the jewlery shop!

>>1507765
Give in to tears for this man's poem

>>1508138
>>1508382

Supporting.

Attempt to compose yourself and fail

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>>1508867
>>1508138
>>1508382

During the last refrain of the poet's prose, each word feels like a bullet in your heart. As the music ends and the last note is slowly drowned by the noise of the bazaar, you double over, sobbing unceremoniously onto the ground.

You feel as though you need a few moments to compose yourself.

No time for that! Plus you never know when some tears could come in handy! To the jewlery store and then we deliver the package!

>>1509738
Thank the bard profusely and pay him, then >>1509769

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>>1509847
>>1509769

You try your best to hold back your sniffling and throw an unknown amount of nunks at the bard, making a quick and embarrassing retreat to the jewelry shop.

Within the magenta-tinged shade of the shop, a female jewelcat stands behind a knee-high display case. She politely waits for you to stop crying and speak.

See if the doctor has something for this depression

See what the Jewelcat has on display!

>>1509941

Ask to see her wares while crying profusely.

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>>1510013
>>1509963

"Your eyes say it all, traveler," the jewelcat rasps with an intelligent conviction.

"Your heart has been harmed. Strangled, perhaps by a friend or lover? A wound of that type requires a bandage, and I have many very shiny ones."

She waves a paw over the display case.

"Feast your waterlogged eyes. Four very exquisite amulets, each with a unique symbol and material. Do any of them capture your fancy?"

From left to right, you see a gilded amulet, a polished stone charm, a silver talisman, and a bejeweled wooden fetish.

Ask the Jewelcat if these have any special properties! My vote is for the fetish, unless one of the others has cooler powers.

>>1510167
Seconding

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>>1510167

"Certainly, my friend, but not in a way you may expect!"

She begins to handle the golden amulet, turning it to show off the detail of the craftsmanship.

"Superstition is very much alive in this place. A simple change in one's appearance can alter the way people initially perceive you, even if it's merely a shiny symbol hung around your neck."

"This golden amulet, for instance, bears the birthright stamp of the ages-old Axsiomon clan. It gives others the impression of great status or wealth."

"This polished malachite slab displays the symbol of the Morsocruce, a secret society that is said to have controlled the entire world for generations. One associated with such a symbol is surely an intelligent strategist and agent of secrets."

"This silver charm, the easily recognizable cross of the Horned Order. Holy in its status, anyone wearing a charm such as this is perhaps a generous saint!"

"And finally, a polished wooden fetish depicting Glunjorr, God of Pests. A popular symbol for hitmen and assassins. Its appearance alerts others of the wearer's dangerous nature."

>>1510313

That fetish might indeed help to scare bandits or even constabularies to try and extort me of my nunks... or even worse, my hat.

How much for it, jewelcat merchant ?

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>>1510406

"An excellent decision, friend. This city gets more dangerous every year, and ending a conflict through mere intimidation is a worthy boon!"

She carefully retrieves the fetish from the display case, deftly threading a thin rope through its bearings.

"The price is twenty nunks. Of course, you're welcome to offer items for trade...

Your inventory consists of twenty-nine nunks, 1 Festerbool 1399 Revolver with 5 shots, 2 reloads for said revolver, one trenching shovel, two stale rations, and the mysterious mesh sack.

>>1510488

Why do we even have a trenching shovel ? I think we should offer it, as she may have some use for the metal and wood for crafting new shiny things. Maybe 5 nunks for it ?

Also, could you lower the price to 15 nunks ? 20 is a bit steep...

>>1510406
Associating with assassins sounds like suspicious activity for constabs

Also, how much these rations worth?

>>1510564

>>1510564

Well, for corrupts constabs I think this may act as a deterrent, as they seem corrupt from the precedent opinions of the populace.

But I do understand your point. What shiny thing would you choose?

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>>1510555

After thinking for a moment, you place your two wrapped rations and the deconstructed trenching shovel on the counter, wondering if the jewelcat could lower the price a bit.

The jewelcat looks unimpressed with your offer, but her face lights up after unwrapping one of the stale rations.

"Ooh... OH!"

Rather unprofessionally, she opens her mouth wide and takes a massive bite of the square ration, chewing it open-mouthed.

"Mmm...oh yes... For both of these and the shovel... the product is yours!"

She jumps up and threads your head through the amulet's rope, practically shoving you out the door as she gorges on your offered rations.

>>1510619
I would have gone with the holy symbol, feels like people would be more trusting

>>1510678
So we kept our nunks?

Lets see that doctor for this sadness. Hide the fetish.

>>1510678

Well, since all the shopkeepers are interesting up to date, I feel we could at least take a look at the doctor with the ominous plague mask before going to the hotel.

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>>1510727
>>1510733

After tucking the pestulent amulet into your collar, you walk up to the street doctor. He wears a ghastly avian mask on top of an outfit that is already heavy with dark colors and thick cloth.

His head tilts as you assume eye contact, though you are unable to see his eyes through the dark lenses on his guise.

"Mmm," he bellows as a minimal-effort greeting.

"Do you have a beak or other large facial feature under your mask Sir or Madam?"

As they speak, let's see if they have any potions and powders on display.

>>1510995
>>1511013

Seconding.

>>1511013
Supporting

OP did you go to bed?

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>>1510995
>>1511013

You feel your heart skip a beat as the doctor's mask changes expression. Seems you've misidentified something about him.

"This...is not a mask, sir."

The doctor seems a bit saddened.

You take the awkward lull in the conversation as an opportunity to look around his stand. There are many drawers and chests behind his counter, covered with words and symbols. A small chart lies in front of him, displaying many alchemical properties.

>>1511745

Let's open a random drawer !

>>1511745

Going to bed. Thanks again for the nice story OP, will drop by tomorrow morning.

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>>1511923

You nonchalantly step towards the rear of the doctor's stall and open the top drawer of his supply chest. The doctor begins to fidget and stutter.

"Um, uh...sir, no...don't..."

The top drawer is filled with several glass tubes filled with a brightly-colored liquid.

Ask if he sells any paralytic venoms.

Ask him if he recognizes this and flash him the fetish!

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>>1512003

"Paralytic? Well, uh..."

He shuts the top drawer on his chest.

"Nothing you could call 'venom' per se, but I have medicinal compounds that can cause muscular immobilization and neural shutdown. However, I'm bound by my training to only use those substances in necessary situations."

Ask him if he can cure our sadness.

>>1512046
say "I will also use them in necessary situations"
take out the fetish

>>oh no, this power is corrupting

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>>1512193

The doctor seems relieved that you've finally done something that wasn't reckless.

"Oh...yes, of course, sir! We stock many different strengths of antidepressants! Our pills are most popular, but we also have natural cures if you're concerned about inorganic substances..."

"I'll take something you can disolve in a drink, so it's easier to digest." Pay Dr. Birb, pocket the meds and head to the delivery place.

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>>1512294

"Absolutely, sir. Just a moment."

The bird doctor opens a sealed chest behind his stand and produces a small vial with a happy face drawn on the label.

"Simply add to any non-alcoholic drink and all of the bad feelings will simply wash away!"

You pay 4 nunks for the bottle, leaving you with 25 nunks remaining.

You thank the doctor for his services and make your way to the Charter King's hotel.

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A Foreign Land will continue.

I would like to thank everyone here for participating, y'all are real swell to write for. Probably going to start a new thread sometime tomorrow, so be on the lookout.

Thanks for the great thread OP!

Thanks senpai, it's been a fun ride so far

>>1512491
Thanks OP, it's been fun! Remember to post here when the new thread is up.

>>1513211

A foreign thread.