Posts from ☀️ Arselia and Akonia Auto-translated

Actually, I was just joking about the name of his sword. And no, she doesn't want to. It's not her style.

I hope the captain survived after all... that would be a loss.

"Ah, she's probably one of those... age-old lords, or rather, ladies? She just never grew out of that phase," Nihonka nodded thoughtfully to herself, pretending to nod in response to the mistress's remark.
- Riders... Are you talking about the guard? I agree, they've been a bit disappointing lately... Hmm, I hope you don't mean that this area is teeming with criminals? - She looked around anxiously, but saw only bare walls, as she was inside a room.

— Our "Haven" is full of rising stars, but they pose no threat to it, for they are its embodiment, the embodiment of the threat.

I don't understand. Carnelian is already on Sunday, but I was supposed to have a performance on Thursday.

because you're not Carnelian...

Astral keeps deleting his characters, trying to roll a good build.

while leveling up the same thing...

Day 28. None of the worst-case scenarios happened, we made it safely -- but what now?

We made it? Didn't we end up on some island? Or were we sailing to an island?

Yes, we were sailing to the island where the queen is held captive, surrounded by revolutionaries.
Oh, by the way, this is the historical homeland of the Welfern, I remembered this thanks to the first post in the thread.
It's good news that it's a navigable island, and there's a small chance that they haven't closed the civilian port. Then it will be possible to board a regular ship, but that's if we're lucky, of course, and there's also a significant risk because they probably recognize the queen, you can't hide...

Onboard the ship, Ayko, not feeling strong enough to provide any useful assistance to the sailors, was at least making notes in her diary (work in progress).

At some point in some place, Gion started keeping a diary.

***

You know how life goes? I was living my life, carefree, serving in the military, and then one unlucky raid on bandits—and you're sucked into a whirlwind of events like... Like a whirlwind. So much has happened since that day, especially this past month, it's impossible to describe. I decided to write down at least the recent events in a diary, to organize my thoughts somehow. They say it's a useful practice.

Let's start with the main thing. I blame my partner Beata for everything that is happening. Feeble-mindedness and courage mixed with a fire under her seat; she won't let a single adventure pass by her soft spot. How lucky I am to have ended up with her... Though, perhaps I am lucky, because the other options were even worse. We met in an interesting way, for lack of a better word. And while I scold her, I don't regret meeting her. She is an incurable optimist. She might cry or throw a fit, but she always believes in the best. And she loves to have fun; you never get bored with her. As a person, she seems unreliable, but I learned to trust her and have never once regretted doing so. And I fell in love with her. I didn't even think I could; she's not at all the kind of girl I dreamed of... But she is the one I feel good with. And she is beautiful, there's no denying that.

Day One

We were sitting and relaxing on the deck of the ship when the outlines of Margel appeared on the horizon. A beautiful snow-white city; you can tell immediately—it's the capital. It inspires one to great deeds and achievements.
While we were admiring the approaching city, a pretty blonde named Linette approached us. One of our own, a fellow adventurer. Oh, the look she gave Beata and me when she was questioning what our relationship was... As if she knew something. Something that we ourselves didn't know at the time... But she gave us a tip on where we could make some money, which is great.
The adventures began at the port. We were met by a guard named Victor. Stern, serious—not the type to joke with. He nitpicked everything... He nitpicked my armor. To be fair, I always considered this piece of cloth, which looks like a skirt, to be somewhat inappropriate. But it's one thing to think so yourself, and another when someone looks at you with disdain and forces you to unfasten the thing.
And as for Beata, instead of sticking up for me, she just stood there laughing while I fumbled with the thing...
When we finally got out of that wretched port, we went to find out where to find Princess Naria—Beata had heard she was looking for workers for something.
We were pointed toward "Phantasmagoria." We went there and watched a play while we were at it. The theater itself is superb! The capital's architecture puts one in a particularly elevated mood. In such a place, one even thinks of high things.
That made watching the play itself all the more amusing by contrast. The director is quite original! He turned a simple story about the lives of hermits into a gripping erotic performance. He did the right thing by adding aesthetics—the actors were beautiful, especially the actress. And they clearly worked on the poses. Remembering it now, the blood rushes... Not where it should. It was a good play, simply excellent. Pity it ended absurdly. Everyone was arrested, cut off at the most interesting part. I would have liked more of such creation. Even without the bedroom scenes!
After the play, Beata went to catch the princess. Alone. Leaving me to wait.
While I waited, I couldn't help but notice an imposing fellow. Director Antonius Blake, I believe. He was flirting with some actress, pinning her against the wall. Interesting casting methods he has... Perhaps that's why I heard people complaining about his play. He wasn't using the right head for casting, oh, definitely not the right one...
Beata returned, noticed the casting process, and smirked meaningfully. No doubt she imagined a personal interview performed by the director; I know her.
She said that Her Highness invites us for an audience at her villa, so we are staying in Margel for now. At the time, I decided that was good news...
We started looking for a place to stay. We found "The Hearth." From the name, you can tell the place is very cozy, and the name matched reality. I even miss it a little. Quiet, peaceful, and again, a good view from the window. Its own laundry service. Pity it didn't have its own kitchen.
On the other hand, the landlady Faemira is a personality who is hard to call quiet and peaceful. As a person (sorry, gnome) she's alright, but she bewildered me with her pompous, theatrical speeches. Beata found this very cute and funny, but I think it would be better if she spoke clearly. There wouldn't have been blunders like the one that happened... But let's take things in order.
Following Faemira's tip, we went to eat at "The Young Drowned Woman"—a very cozy and atmospheric restaurant on the seashore. A very beautiful place, open to all winds. On one of the windowsills sat some arrogant fat seagull. Now that is truly complete unity with nature... However, seagulls didn't fly inside and didn't bother the patrons.
We were served by a waitress named Anna. A very beautiful and, as Beata says, "talented" girl in a rather frivolous uniform. A feast for the eyes. And I just had to embarrass myself in front of her... I'm still ashamed to remember it.
It's all Faemira's fault with her convoluted speeches. How was I to know that "Pam-param and three x's" wasn't a code phrase for a discount, but the names of other cafes? And Beata was helpful too; she didn't look at the map, and a brilliant idea occurred to her. Well, and I'm great too, why not... I can imagine how hard it was for Anna to keep from laughing at the stupid provincial! I was ready to sink through the ground. I didn't want to return to that restaurant of my own free will... But Aiko invited everyone later... Again, I'm getting ahead of myself.
Beata decided to be lazy at "The Hearth," and I went to look for work. Someone has to do something productive. And why is it usually me... Ah, well, yes.
"Imperial Laborers' Commonwealth" is a very serious establishment. Everything is as dry and businesslike as possible, only necessary information. You can tell immediately that they are used to getting things done here. Reminded me of my native army... I won't say those are very warm memories. But at least it's clear right away what's what.
As for the chief laborer, Draco Mellis—he's a capable man. Stern, abrupt as diarrhea, difficult character, but—capable. He told me about the vacancies and the position I chose. He warned me that the place was shady, but I met the requirements—they needed a guard, and soldiers were paid extra. And let's be honest, it's not the first time I've dealt with shady places and people, so it didn't worry me much. You get used to everything.
Upon leaving, I ran into a charming, intelligent gnome named Aiko. As I found out later—a very sweet, polite, and kind-hearted lady. She hinted that she was looking for workers, but at that moment I was a bit preoccupied—I just took note, thanked her for the information, and rushed off.
Following his lead, I went to "The Vulture." Good thing Draco warned me—the place practically radiated... shadiness. It looked a bit like a warehouse, piles of stuff in every corner. Simply created for some villains to carry out their dark dealings here.
The owner of the establishment, Casu, is cut from the same cloth. A rude type who expected me to cover him with my body if someone started firing crossbows at him. Well... That is, of course, part of my job, but it is definitely not what I want to spend my time doing. I hope I look menacing enough that nobody starts firing crossbows at Casu... Although who am I kidding. If I looked menacing, Beata wouldn't say five times a day that I have a cute face.
We agreed that I would start work tonight, and I went to tell Beata the news.
On the way, I passed by the Blake Mansion. A beautiful old-fashioned building, picturesquely overgrown with ivy. I couldn't help but notice Antonius's happy family on the porch—his wife and children, apparently going somewhere or coming from somewhere. I wonder if his wife approves of his castings?
It took a great effort to drag Beata out for some entertainment.
I suggested going to the museum—one must know a bit of history and culture! And she would surely be inspired by the exhibits. She whined all the way, but in the end, she didn't regret it. There were exhibits for her too; I saw the smirk on her face as she looked at the emperor's bed and the Lunarian gag. Good thing it wasn't the whip... I was more interested in the remains of the celestials. Although who am I kidding, trying out the bed in practice wouldn't be bad either. But I felt a bit sorry for the empress—she bore so many heirs. I know Lunarians; she didn't have long to live by their standards. Sad. I don't like the pointy-ears, for good reason, but I don't wish death upon them either.
The guide Mika also pleasantly surprised me. A polite, intelligent woman who explained everything to us patiently and in detail. From people like her, I expected embarrassment during stories about particularly spicy exhibits, but no, she was absolutely calm. A professional, clearly.
After the museum, I had to run at full speed to "The Vulture" so as not to miss my first working day. Or rather—working night. The busiest trade was around ten to twelve at night. Which makes sense for such a place... Some people—obviously regulars—glanced at me with blatant suspicion. Good thing Casu immediately explained that I was a new employee. Judging by the reaction of the regulars—I don't really want to know what happened to the old one.
Tired as a dog, I returned to "The Hearth" and crashed immediately.

Day Two

Yesterday's trip and run through the seedy spots took their toll. I barely managed to open my eyes by noon. Forget about any audience...
This time we acted smarter and went to "Pam-Param." A cheerful name. And the cafe itself is very pleasant. Cute, cozy decor, a warm homey atmosphere, simple and quality food. Beata is delighted; I can understand her. It's really delicious.
The waiter Christoph is also very pleasant. Smiling, sociable, provides wonderful service and knows the menu perfectly. A pleasure to visit.
True, my acquaintance from yesterday, Draco, spoiled the mood a bit. He made a comment to Beata about her clothing. Well... He's partly right—after all, a dress code law is being prepared. But the very idea of such a law is, mildly speaking, doubtful. And it was a bit rude of him. Not surprising that Beata flew into a rage. True, after a bowl of borscht she softened and settled on ordering herself a circus costume in the style of "Here's a bit and here's a bit, and there's nothing left," before the law is passed. I offered her a rather cute alternative option, but she flatly refused—saying the skirt was uncomfortable. So, it's okay to dress me in skirts, huh?
After a hearty lunch, we decided to wander through the shops. We came across "Chronos." A very stylish watchmaker's shop; everything is clean, neat, not a speck of dust, only gears and dials blurring before your eyes. Beata offered to buy me a watch, but I refused—our budget isn't rubber.
The master watchmaker Quentin didn't disturb us while we looked around. The guy was clearly focused on his work, rustling with a screwdriver and clinking gears. It's pleasant to look at a person who loves their job.
Having bought nothing, we went to "Upgrade." Even from the street, you could feel the working atmosphere and hear some clinking. Inside, the assortment made my eyes swim... Actually, it turned out it wasn't an assortment. Because "Upgrade" turned out not to be a store, but a workshop for, precisely, upgrading weapons and armor. Useful business!
The owner of "Upgrade," Orros, immediately explained what to expect from his skills and abilities. The guy is very talented and clearly passionate. I wonder what his armor is enchanted with? And why does he even need armor for his work?
Beata dashed back to "The Hearth," and I still had a little time before work, so I popped into "Grace." It turned out to be a very decent and tidy little bookstore. Small, but with a good selection. Even unique, judging by the inscriptions on the spines.
Yes, by all appearances, Belyana is not only a saleswoman but also a writer. A person passionate about their work is always good. True, she's a bit blunt. Not fatal, but unpleasant.
When I entered, she was talking to some mysterious stranger. About stars, astrology... I overheard the conversation out of the corner of my ear; I didn't try to eavesdrop. I wonder who it was? The girl was clearly of high birth, but Belyana flatly refused to say. Her right, but it's curious!
From "Grace," I walked leisurely to work. This time it felt a bit more familiar. True, one scandalous lady stressed me out a bit—at one point it seemed she was about to pounce on Casu. I had to demonstratively draw my sword and admire how it glinted... For some reason, the scandalist calmed down immediately. Maybe I am menacing after all?

Day Three

There was no more room to slack off, so early in the morning, without even having breakfast, we went for the audience with the princess.
Our path lay past Antonius Blake's dacha. A cute one-story house with a luxurious yard. Apparently, someone really loved avocados. There was some bustle around the house, guards scurrying about—at that moment, I foolishly thought someone had conducted a casting poorly. Oh, if only I knew then what actually happened...
The Princess's Villa impressed me. An exquisite, airy structure immersed in greenery. She has good gardeners, you can tell immediately. It's pleasant to be there.
But Princess Naria herself... A beautiful woman. Looks stunning, has a business grip, knows what she wants. But it was very unpleasant that she looked at me as if I were invisible. Maybe I blurted out something wrong, judging by Beata's look, but it's unpleasant when you're ignored. I'm a human too.
On the other hand, her bodyguard Aria didn't take her eyes off me. Brr. Lunarians already make me nervous, and here she is boring into me with a heavy gaze, as if she's about to pounce. Creepy lady.
In any case, things didn't work out with the princess. She only laughed and suggested looking for some adventurers; maybe they would take us. She said a new guild had just opened. Disappointing, frustrating, but maybe it's for the best.
We wanted to go to the guild, but rumbling stomachs made themselves known; we had to take a detour toward "Pam-Param." That was our mistake. Now Beata knows what pirozhki are. I feel we'll go broke buying them, and I'll have to roll her around like a barrel... Although pirozhki are very delicious, no arguing there.
After the pirozhki, we quickly reached "Carneola". A very beautiful building in a quiet residential quarter, presentable yet cozy even from the outside. Probably because of the wood in the design. Later it turned out that Aiko was talking specifically about this guild, but I was listening with half an ear and forgot the name.
Near the entrance, a Helesian foreigner was bustling about. As it turned out later—Kilikka, our future adventuring companion. Young, cheerful, beautiful, and quite, hm, talented. I wonder if it's hard for her with such talents? I'm certainly not complaining; the sight is... mesmerizing.
She said the guild leader was running around somewhere and suggested writing a letter and dropping it in the mailbox on the door, which is what we did. More accurately, Beata did, and I made sure she didn't write anything unnecessary. Seriously, what does the fact that I have, in her opinion, a cute backside have to do with the matter?
Afterward, Beata and I split up; I went for a walk in the port district, and she went shopping.
I was attracted by an establishment with a sign saying "Tentacle." To be honest, I feared the worst, but it turned out to be just a shop with an interesting assortment. Elegant katanas, authentic Zimivian samovars and matryoshkas, flying carpets straight from Calcite... Clearly, the owner is a person of imagination and interest in the world.
The saleswoman there was a pretty northerner named Bronislava. The girl seemed a bit reserved to me, but friendly, and clearly in her element.
Regretting that I had no money, I headed to "The Anchor." The port we arrived in. Somehow I hadn't managed to examine it properly, being preoccupied with that Victor... But overall it's a beautiful place, very lively and noisy, loads of people from different countries; you just have to keep an eye on your pockets.
The girl selling tickets, named Ellie, was very sweet. We weren't planning to sail anywhere yet, so I just looked at the destinations and asked her questions; she told me everything very friendlily. And the prices, of course...
Then I turned into the "Room of Horrors." Unfortunately, I only managed to appreciate the building from the outside, but they clearly put a lot of effort into it—the papier-mâché spiders above the entrance looked quite convincing. As for why a plum tree was growing in a tub there, I still don't understand.
I didn't go inside because a young girl named Mia, obviously working there, demanded money for entry. Logical, of course, but I had no money, so I retreated. I think I offended her... If I had known what would happen to her later, Beata and I would have definitely gone in... But alas. Eh, maybe if she were older, what happened wouldn't have happened... After all, she loved her work. Worked on the costume, on the image. Sad.
After my shameful retreat, all that was left was to go to sleep. Luckily it's a day off and I don't have to go to work, hooray!

Day Four

Since someone was too lazy to get up early, we had to choke down travel biscuits. On one hand, it's right that we finished them, but on the other—it's a pity when "Pam-Param" is right next door.
It turned out that Beata had already had an interview and dragged me to "Carneola" early in the morning. Its mysterious leader turned out to be that same gnome, Aiko. What a meeting! Had I known, we could have joined sooner. Oh well.
It seems Aiko wasn't looking for warriors, but for free labor. She made us carry furniture to the third floor. It's not hard for us, of course, but I think it's a waste of our strength. Although... It's not my first time. Who carries Beata's junk? I do...
After the physical exercises, we discussed the option for our guild flag. Quite nice; Aiko did well, she tried. Perhaps Beata nitpicked too much, but her remarks seemed appropriate to me. She wanted to make it as good as possible.
Then Beata and I split up; she sent me to scout the hunters' guild. A very stylish place, tastefully decorated with hunting trophies, horns, and skins. I was especially impressed by the stuffed bear in the corner. This place must be fun for gathering by the fireplace and telling tall tales.
The guild head, Pheasant, turned out to be a very welcoming guy. He disappointed me slightly by saying that hunting gear couldn't be bought with ordinary rems; prestige had to be earned. And for that, one had to work for the guild—for example, destroy a nest of harpies threatening travelers.
I figured and realized that this task was beyond Beata and me. Too many harpies, and there's only two of us. Maybe someday in the future, but for now, I had to leave empty-handed.
Smoothly moving to the port district, I tried to poke into "The Ice Mountain," but I was politely told to beat it. It turned out to be a knightly order that doesn't let just anyone in. You know, I'm a kind of knight myself. Anyway... I don't know, I've grown used to the free life with Beata. I don't think I could live by rules and strict discipline again. But I appreciated the castle's architecture; it has a very fitting name.
Here I found Beata and we went together to see the palace. If only I knew where that would lead...
No, the palace itself is undoubtedly luxurious. You can see where half the state budget goes. Even without going inside, there's plenty to see. The architects didn't earn their bread for nothing; I haven't seen such a huge building in a long time that doesn't feel oppressive, and all the numerous towers and spires combine surprisingly harmoniously.
But some commotion broke out at the drawbridge. We approached to gawk closer... To our own detriment.
Some lunatic named Apeiron Logos was trying to break into the palace, waving a portrait... Back then I thought it was just a beautiful girl, but now I believe there is no creature more terrible. Apparently, this portrait greatly... impressed the poor fellow, and he hurried to present it as a gift to the ruler. A very interesting decision.
The guards worked excellently, professional training is evident—Apeiron was tackled and hauled off where he belonged. But they left the portrait lying in the street... Oh, whenever I remember it, I shudder! I almost picked it up, but Beata stopped me. She guessed something was fishy with the painting and, just in case, wrapped it in my cloak. She suggested taking it to the museum and asking there what to do with the portrait. It was a good idea, but...
The cloak wasn't enough. Even the mere act of Beata carrying that cursed painting affected her mind in the worst possible way. She didn't want to part with it! She decided to hang it in our room! Brr, it's all in the past, but my hands shake when I remember... I couldn't take it and snapped; I didn't want to stay with that damn portrait for a second longer. Fortunately, she didn't try to hold me back; on the contrary—she told me to go to hell.
Since the museum was nearby, I ran to it and dumped the whole story on Mika. She patiently listened to my rambling account, offered a glass of water, and advised where to turn. The Bureau of Magic or that little shop in the port... In any case, it was already late evening and all establishments were closing.
All I could do was reach "Carneola" and share my story with my new friends. Aiko supported the idea of going to the bureau; she also recommended the church and a local psychiatrist. She put a room at my disposal and promised to provide all necessary help. I couldn't even believe such a miracle and her kindness...
But the recruit, Keliandra, who happened to be hanging around there, I didn't like immediately. Not only is she a dark Lunarian, but her character is... Not sugar. She "encouraged" me by saying Beata couldn't be helped anymore and that I should just forget about her. Forget about the closest person to me! How I restrained myself from hitting her—I have no idea.
Luckily, today was a day off. Deciding to run to "Tentacle" in the morning, I went to gather my strength. I slept poorly, but managed to nap for a couple of hours...

Day Five

Early in the morning, I ran to "Tentacle" and asked Bronislava to invite the shop owner.
The owner, Evgeny Kripov, turned out to be... A creepy guy. Outwardly quite welcoming and friendly, a very calm and balanced man, but something... Abnormal emanated from him. Strange. I don't know how to describe it. I slightly regretted contacting him, but the alternative was even worse. Bureau of Magic? A fuss would rise throughout the city, and Beata might even be locked up somewhere for experiments. I had to trust Evgeny.
He agreed to help me, and without wasting time, we rushed to save Beata.
When we arrived at "The Hearth," I first thought it was too late. The cursed painting was hanging on the wall, and Beata was staring into it, not even paying us much attention. As if nothing existed except this painting.
Evgeny wasn't particularly surprised; he said this was the typical handwriting of Rinze—a cursed otherworldly entity that captures weak minds. He offered an alternative in the form of a brain parasite of a completely hideous appearance. Brrr... At first, I wanted to flatly refuse, but Evgeny assured me it was safe and even useful, protecting the mind well from creatures like Rinze; the only side effects were a runny nose and a headache. He also warned that this parasite does not like heat.
I decided to take the risk and trust him. I feared the worst, but in the end, everything worked out. I got off with a black eye... Again, I'm getting ahead of myself.
Evgeny also promised to get rid of the portrait, but requested a fairly large sum of money—we only had half of that amount. Fortunately, he agreed to a deferment. I had no idea how I would explain all this to Beata and how she would react.
I almost missed work. Listened to a lecture from Casu. Spent the whole evening scaring customers with my depressed look. Listened to another lecture on the topic that customers don't like gloomy faces. By some miracle, I didn't snap and lose my job.
Dragged myself back to "The Hearth" by three in the morning. Beata, fortunately, was still asleep...

I was just thinking that after the GM's post, Kosha decided to repost the diary so that people would actually read it. and I read it 8-)

"Carnelian must be cursed. Or this female dwarf. Or me. Or maybe all of us? Or this whole damn world?!" Pondering the situation and puffing, Merel changes into a new pair of shoes. "It would have been better if the captain had survived, rather than..." - the astrologer looked at their female squad. - "Although maybe it's for the best. All that remains is to hope for it." so, is it possible to spend something retroactively (someone in the front)?

It is possible.

then I spend 4 Action Points on the kitchen. I'll save 1 Action Point just in case...

Garrett: ✦✦✦✦✦+3

I was happy at first, but then I remembered that I'm not Garrett.

Chill
Immune to mind control.

but couldn't it have saved him from the fruit and the music?

No, because it doesn't affect the mind, but the whole body...

Added 4 minutes later
Victor and Alaria tell Ann to return to Barsina alone.

I was just thinking that after GM's post, Kosha decided to repost the diary so that everyone would actually read it.
and I was reading it 8-)

No, it's just that some people have to write the same thing twice because they have two accounts...
And Reven added the link 👍

Since it’s possible, I’m waiting for a +1.5 intelligence item.

Reven, in diary entry 45, with names/locations, plus some events for a smoother narrative. I'm not entirely sure how you count events, but I'm trying to separate the conditionally event-related things into separate paragraphs from the locations and characters.