>>1783608
>Kitten
Evening Smiley

>>1783608
>Altea
Let's get introduced to people properly at least.

>>1783608
>Altea

>>1783608
>>Altea

>writing

You and Pip make your way over to Altea and the people you think are the hosts.

"You made it" Altea says, in an unusually cool tone.
"We did" You reply.

"Yuu, Pip, these people are Lady Lana and Lord Marcus Rynia. Marcus is the head of his house, and therefore lord of Leon" Marybell says, before turning to the hosts. "This is Pip, a knight like myself, and Yuu, my Commander's adopted son"

"Nice to meet you" You say, as you shake their hands. "But you forgot someone"

Marybell looks confused so you poke the front pocket on your suit and Coral pops out, giving a big smile and a wave.

"Ah, yes. That is Yuu's sprite, Coral" Marybell says.
"Charmed" Lana says. "Your mother has told us much about you, but she never mentioned that you were handsome"

"I figure Coral's more cute than handsome, but I can go with that" You say.
Pip nudges you with her shoulder. "She was talking about you" She whispers.

"Oh... oh!" You say. "Uhh... thanks"

"Did you find anything of interest while you were out exploring?" Altea asks.

>The big fountain's busted

>They keep some saucy books in the archive

>South Antolian food is good

>Captain Theresa offered to let me use her ship again

>Other

>>1783753
>>The big fountain's busted

>>South Antolian food is good

>>1783753

>Captain Theresa offered to let me use her ship again

>>1783753
>An interesting researcher at the archive.

>>1783753
>>The big fountain's busted

>writing

"The big fountain is busted" You say. "Probably because the reactor was damaged when the guardian blew itself up"

"That's too bad. Lana and I were discussing lighting the fountains up and holding a celebration" Marcus says.
You tilt your head. "What are we celebrating?" You ask.
"Why, your victory of course" He replies.

...

"Oh yeah" You say.

"How is the Captain Theresa doing?" Altea asks.
"Fine. I think she enjoyed almost crashing into the barrier" You say. "She offered to let me use her ship again if I needed it"
"See what I was talking about when I said she was the only one crazy enough to take a mission like this?" Altea asks.

"Is this captain Theresa Crow by any chance?" Lana asks.
"Yes" You reply.
"So she actually did become an airship captain" Marcus says.

"You know her?" You ask.
"Not personally, but her parents come to visit here occasionally" Lana says.

>What are they like?

>Your house is very large

>Do other nobles visit often?

>Other

>>1783829
>>What are they like?

>>Do other nobles visit often?

>>1783829
>>What are they like?

>>1783829
>What are they like?
>Sorry about ruining the victory celebration by breaking the reactor.

>>1783829
>Do other nobles visit often?

>writing

"What are they like?" You ask.
"They're very cautious people, especially around other nobles" Lana says.

"And can you blame them? Their family has had to compete with the Orvins and the Sherans for almost a hundred years now" Marcus says.

"Compete?" You ask.

"You know how Sherton has 3 noble families?" Pip asks. "The Orvin and Sherans are the other two"
"Ohhh" You say. "I get it. So they compete over what... Sherton itself?"

"Pretty much, yes" Altea says. "100 years ago, the main Sheran family's heirs all died, either by war or disease. The remaining extended family was split between the Orvins, Crows, and Sherans. All their claims held equal value, so in order to avoid bloodshed the queen of the time had them all rule together... the bloodshed she was hoping wouldn't happen happened anyway, but things have settled a bit more now"

"Yes, now they merely seek to destroy each other economically and politically" Marcus says. "Did you know that the Crows asked us to urge the king to investigate the Legion's attack on their city? They believe the others had conspired with the demons to destroy their tower, as only Sherton was attacked, and only their tower was destroyed"

>They went after more than the tower

>Locke was attacked too

>Do you think it's possible?

>Other

>>1783904
>>They went after more than the tower

>>Locke was attacked too

>>1783904
>>They went after more than the tower

>>1783904
>They went after more than the tower

>writing

"They went after more than the tower" You say. "Cheska said they were there so that Carthac could perform the ritual to open a portal to the Bla-"

Pip nudges your side. "Those are all details they don't need to, and probably don't want to know" She whispers.

"Oh... they weren't there for the tower" You say. "I mean, Locke was attacked too. Twice, almost 3 times"

"Almost 3 times?" Lana asks.
"We caught them out between Locke and Bell's Run trying to run a big monster towards Locke" You say. "I killed the monster, and then the Hunters showed up and chased them off"
"Ah" Marcus says. "And who is this 'Cheska'?"

>A friend

>An informant from the Legion

>Change the subject

>Other

>>1783950
>>A friend

>>1783950
>>An informant from the Legion
>A friend

>>1783950
>A friend
>Change the subject

>>1783950
>>A friend

>writing

"A friend" You say. "She had some connections in the Legion that she used to get us some info before she had to flee to the north"

"I see" Marcus says. "A shame she had to leave. An informant in the Legion is something I believe we'll be needing"
"Her information was integral to our being able to strike out at Leon" Altea says. "And apparently it's the only information from Antolia that we'll be getting..."

"So we don't have spies over there after all?" You ask.
"Not a one" Altea says. "Dein had them all pulled out and retasked to keeping tabs on my rebellion..."
"Yikes" Pip says. "So we're blind"
"Blind, and with no way to contact the Antolians, yes" She says. "But it could be worse. We could have never gotten Cheska's info. Then we'd still be sitting on our thumbs in Locke. So I'll take what I can get"

"Good outlook" Lana says. "Would you like a drink? We've got some lovely wines"
"I would love a drink" Altea replies.

Lana waves a servant over, before turning to the rest of the group. "Anyone else?"

Pip and Marybell both raise a hand to each other, holding up a different symbol. Like Rock-paper-scissors, but you don't recognize what theirs are supposed to represent.

Pip smiles, having obviously won that exchange. "I will as well" She says.
"And Yuu?" Lana asks.

>No thank you

>Sure

>Other

>>1784023
>>Sure

>>1784023
>>Sure
time to see if we can hold our drink

>>1784023
>Sure

>>1784023
>>Sure

>>1784023
>>Sure
Have any Merlot?

>writing

"Sure" You say. "I'll give it a try"

Lana says something to the servant, and he makes his way off. As you look on, you feel something brush up against your leg. Looking down, you see that the little kitten's made her way over to you.

"Hello" You say, as you crouch down next to her.

"Oh... uh, she's not actually supposed to be down here" Marcus says."She tends to bite new people... I'll get Leah to take her back upstairs"
"Nonsense, she's a little sweetie" You say, as you scratch between her ears and offer your other hand for her to sniff. "Right?"

The kitten sniffs your hand, and then bites you.

Marcus looks horrified. "I'm terribly sorry, but-"

You wave him off. "This is normal" You say, as you turn to the kitten. "Is that a tasty hand?"
"Mew"
"The best hand you've ever tasted? Why thank you" You say, as you lift her up and liberally apply more scritches.

>What's her name?

>I'm used to kitten bites

>So what does wine taste like anyway?

>Other

>>1784102
>>What's her name?
>>I'm used to kitten bites

>>1784102
>What's her name?

>writing

>>1784102
>>What's her name?

>>I'm used to kitten bites

>>1784102
>I'm used to kitten bites

You smile. "I'm used to kitten bites" You say. "I played with Katherine's daughter a lot back in Locke, and she liked to do 2 things: sleep in inconvenient places, and gnaw on my hands"

"Katherine is... the guild's second in command, yes?" Lana asks.
"Yes" You say.
"I've heard much about her, and she's been stationed here for a long time but we've never met" She says. "Perhaps I should take the time to remedy that"

"Up to you" You say. "What's this one's name anyhoo?"
"That's Delilah" Marcus says. "Daughter of Lana's sister"
"So... Leah's cousin" You say. "Is there another kitten around? She doesn't look like the one I saw earlier"

"She looks exactly the same" Pip says.
"No, the one in the street when we were riding around was bigger than this, and she didn't have the little white tufts on the ears" You say.
"You have a good eye. Sara is out for the day, so she left Delilah with us. But her other daughter, Denise, is old enough to be out and about" Lana says.

>Sorry for almost hitting her with my Rook...

>Makes me wish i had more hands...

>How big is your family?

>Other

>>1784174
>>Makes me wish i had more hands...
>>How big is your family?

>>1784174
>Makes me wish i had more hands...

>>1784174
>>Sorry for almost hitting her with my Rook...

>>Makes me wish i had more hands...

>>1784174
>>How big is your family?

>>1784174
>How big is your family?

>writing

File: Updated mep.jpg (401 KB, 2458x1303)

401 KB JPG

"How big is your family?" You ask.
"Not... huge" Lana says. "My sister lives here with her family, as do Marcus's brother and sister"

"Wow" You say. "I mean, you definitely have the space for all those people"
"We certainly do... there's even a few spare rooms left over" Lana says. "But my entire family doesn't live here. My older brother left to see to his own endeavours"

"Where'd he go?" You ask.
"Across the ocean, to the east" Lana says. "He's currently in charge of one of the few major towns over there"

"Really?" You ask, as you reach into your back pocket and pull out your map. "Whereabouts is it? I'll need to go somewhere when I head that way"

"It's..." Marcus walks over and pulls a pen out, making a mark on your map. "Here. Easthaven is the name of the town. There's no airship dock there, but there is a road to Port Horizon, which is here"

"Thanks" You say, as you fold the map back up and put it away.
"I notice you already have some marks on that side of the world. Have you already been there?" Lana asks.
"No, but I intend to go" You say. "Those are all ruins, like the Howling Tower"

"Interested in the ruins?" Marcus asks.
"It's hard not to be" You say. "Speaking of which..."

>Excuse yourself and go talk to Madelaine

>We plan on going to Howling Tower soon

>Do you know where the other 2 might be?

>Other

>>1784228
>>Do you know where the other 2 might be?

>>1784228
>>We plan on going to Howling Tower soon

>>Do you know where the other 2 might be?

>>1784228
>>Do you know where the other 2 might be?
"I've been trying to pin them down on a theory I have, but I can't even seem to find names for them."

>>1784228
>>Do you know where the other 2 might be?
>We plan on going to Howling Tower soon

>>1784228
>Do you know where the other 2 might be?

>writing

"Do you know where the other two might be?" You ask.
"No, but there is someone who does at the archive" Marcus says. "A scholar by the name of Brammon. If you want to know anything about the ruins, seek him out"

"I've heard he's changed fields after what happened to his apprentice" Lana says.
"What happened?" You ask.
"She was with the team that went in after the ruins 'un-ruined' itself" She says. "I hear she's still broken"

"Where might I find him?" You ask.
"She lives with Brammon now. The old scholar looks after her" Marcus says.
"I'll keep that in mind" You say.

The servant comes back in with a tray of wine glasses, and starts handing them out. It occurs to you that Delilah isn't leaving you with a free hand to hold a glass with, so you-

>Put her down for now

>Ask for assistance

>Find a table for the glass

>Other

>>1784276
>>Find a table for the glass

>>1784276
>Find a table for the glass

>>1784276
>>>Find a table for the glass

>>1784276
>Put her down for now

>writing

You stop scratching long enough to give a quick cheers and take a sip, then you step closer to one of the nearby tables and set the glass down. Delilah looks miffed that you stopped, but quickly continues purring as you get back to it.

"What do you think?" Pip asks.
"It tastes... interesting" You say. "Not quite sweet, but there's definitely a sweetness to it"
"That sounds like wine" Pip says.

"I quite like it... is this from Sherton?" Altea asks.
"It is" Lana says. "From the greenhouses. I almost alway get a few bottles whenever a new batch comes out because they've never disappointed me"
"Neat. Stella does some work in the greenhouses" You say. "Or, she did"

"Stella... you don't mean Stella Lepol, do you?" Lana asks.
"I do" You say.
"I had no idea she did work outside the guild" Lana says. "How do you know her?"

"She was at the desk the first time I went through Sherton" You say. "She decided to give me lessons on how to deal with women"

"Oh? What kind of lessons?" Altea asks.
"Lesson one was to always comment on cuteness when I see it" You say. "Lesson 2 was that girls love chocolate, and lesson 3 was to never call a girl big"

Lana and her husband start to laugh.

"Good lessons, to be sure" Lana says.

>Ask about their view on the whole civil war

>Ask if people drink a lot of this wine stuff

>Tell Altea about the book you read in the Archive

>Other

>>1784331
>>Ask about their view on the whole civil war
>>Ask if people drink a lot of this wine stuff

>>1784331
>>Ask if people drink a lot of this wine stuff

>>1784331

>Ask if people drink a lot of this wine stuff

>Tell Altea about the book you read in the Archive

>>1784331
>Ask about their view on the whole civil war

>>1784331
>>Tell Altea about the book you read in the Archive

>writing

You pick up your glass and take another sip, then put it down again so you can keep scratching. "Do a lot of people drink this wine stuff?" You ask.
"Certainly" Lana says. "My mother used to drink the stuff like water. Damn near bankrupted the family..."

"I did notice that about her" Altea says. "How did you deal with that?"
"We started watering it down" Lana says. "If she noticed, she never said anything"

"How expensive is wine?" You ask.
"Not expensive enough to make bankrupting the richest family in Lubars solely by drinking an easy task" Lana says. "Though at that time I believe we were second richest..."

"To who?" You ask.
"To Lord Dustin" Lana says. "Of course, that was when his town still sat on a mass of riches"

"He's a smart man, I'll give him credit" Marcus says. "I'm interested to see what he has in store for the revitalization of Bell's Run"
"He'll have Locke's support in whatever endeavours he undertakes" Altea says. "I do owe him for his aid in retaking the city"

"I'd no idea that he helped to oust the Inquisition" Lana says. "We didn't hear much from Bell's Run"

"Yuu here lead a small team in through a secret entrance that Dustin showed us" Altea says. "He was only supposed to ensure that the gates would be open when we arrived, but he decided to go all the way and work with some of the guard to retake it before we were even close"

"Impressive" Lana says. She gets an odd look in her eye...

>Simon gets most of the credit...

>It wasn't all good

>Just doing my job

>Other

>>1784372
>>It wasn't all good

>>1784372
>>Simon gets most of the credit...

>>1784372
>It wasn't all good

>>1784372
>>It wasn't all good

>>1784372
>>Simon gets most of the credit...

I won't be awake for question time, but I had a question about the map.

Are we to assume that our current geography knowledge is more accurate than the map's or that the map you have is final?
For example, the Great Lakes (and several of Canada's other big lakes as well as lake Victoria) are not shown. Is this the case in-character?

>writing

>>1784393
They're there. It was hard finding a good blank world map in a decent res, so I just went with this one. In fact, if anyone can find a better one feel free to post it. I've been meaning to upgrade it but I haven't found the time to search.

>>1784399
And 1 quick google search of 'blank world map' later and I've already found a better one. Fuck me.

"It wasn't all good... I underestimated the Inquisition and a lot of innocent people ended up dying" You say, and then realize that isn't exactly 'party' talk. "Also Simon gets most of the credit"

"Simon?" Lana asks.
"One of the guards. He's the one who rallied up all the willing fighters in the city" You say. "And I guess Vivi gets the credit for finding him. If she hadn't wandered off, we never would have crossed paths"

"Who is Vivi?" Marcus asks.
"Vivian is Katherine's daughter" Altea says. "She decided to take a nap in one of the carts they rode to Bell's Run, and they didn't notice her until they were most of the way there"

"She's probably the same age as Delilah here" You say. "Which is part of the reason why I'm glad that I'm very handy with kittens. It would have been impossible to juggle kittensitting and combat operations if I weren't"

"I've noticed" Lana says. "Delilah usually bites and scratches until you put her down. I've never seen her this calm with a stranger... Sara would be delighted to hear it"

"But enough of that for now. I have business to discuss with these two" Altea says. "Why don't you three go have some fun"
"... I am having fun" You say.
"With the people your age" Altea adds, as she ruffles your hair. "We'll catch up later"

You exchange a few more words with Lana and Marcus, then the 3 of them head off to a side room.

"Uh-oh" Pip says.
"What?" You ask.
"I think Yuu's in trouble~" Pip says.
"What? How?" You ask.
"Yes, I think I recognized that look..." Marybell says.

You look to the two of them in confusion.

Pip giggles for a moment, takes a breath, and goes back to being neutral.

"Keep alert. That lady may try to set you up with her daughter" Pip says.

>Why?

>How do you know?

>Is that... trouble?

>Other

>>1784422
>>Why?
>How do you know?

>>1784422
>Is that... trouble?

>>1784422
>Why?
>How do you know?

>>1784422
>>Why?
>>Is that... trouble?
>Other
But I like Stella

>writing

"Why?" You ask.
"Nobles are always lookin' for good dudes to marry their daughters off to" Pip says. "Think about it. You're a valorous, humble, handsome young prince who is kinda weird, but funny enough to make up for it"

"...is that trouble?" You ask.
"Only if you'd actually like to find someone for yourself" Marybell says.

"Oh... I actually do" You say.
"Then it's trouble" Pip says, as she throws an arm over your shoulder. "Don't worry Yuusky, Pip's got your back"
"I will help where I can as well" Marybell says.

"Thanks guys" You say.

"And hey" Pip says, as she grabs your wine glass. "Worse comes to worse, Leah's an alright gal"
"I agree. As it stands the Rynia house will go to her. She is an apt fighter, and I've heard she has a sharp sense of humor" Marybell says.

"Who knows, she might even whip Yuusky up into a proper gentleman" Pip says. "Teach him some etiquette, and maybe how to properly put on a suit, too!"
"All very important skills" Marybell says.

"Why does it sound like you guys are rooting for this?" You ask.

"Don't worry about it" Pip says, with a very obvious wink to Marybell.
"What was that?" You ask.

Pip laughs as she heads over to the others, and Marybell gives you a hard pat on the back before following.

The sudden jar disturbs Coral, who pops her head out of your pocket and looks around.

"You'll always have my back, right Coral?" You ask.

Coral smiles and gives a thumb's up. That may be her response to everything, but it still comforts you... even though you're not sure what she can realistically do to help...

You pat her head, and she returns to your pocket as you head after Marybell.

That's all for tonight!

Next thread will probably be over the weekend.

As always I'll be sticking around for question/suggestion time.

>>1784458

Thanks for the run!

>>1784458
Thanks for running

>>1784458
Thanks for Running Smiley

>>1784458
When are we getting into the ruins?

30 more threads, give or take?

>>1784935
Once this day is done you guys will have free rein to travel about. At that point you can visit the Tower whenever you want. The other ruins will likely have to wait until the Legion is dealt with.

"Looks like somebody made a friend" Derrick says as you approach.
"Oh wow" Leah says. "Delilah usually just bites new people if they try to pick her up"

"Oh, she did" You say. "I'm more or less used to kids like her gnawing on my hands"
"Right... they were telling me about your other Felid friends" Leah says. "So the four of you escaped prison together?"

"5. Fran was there too" You say.
"Who's Fran?" Leah asks. "Other than the fifth person, I mean"
"She's a blue devil, and she... must be a decade older than us at least" Derrick says. "She's got a husband who's a hunter, and two daughters"

"Oh... yeah, people don't like devils all that much" Leah says.
"I can't see why" You say. "I've yet to meet a devil I don't like"
"You've met exactly 4" Madelaine says.

"5. Tania is a devil" You say.
"Tania sold us out to the Inquisition" Madelaine says.
"Her heart was in the right place" You say. "Oh yeah, it turns out that Stoencht dude at the archive is an old friend of Fran and Kieve"

"I got that impression from it... especially after they recommended him by name" Derrick says. "Find out anything interesting?"

>Stoencht has a weak constitution

>Something about the virtue of valor

>The Comomder is into some strange books...

>Other

>>1790299
>>Something about the virtue of valor

>>The Comomder is into some strange books...

>>1790299
>Something about the virtue of valor
I'm not sure Derrick wants to know her book preferences

>>1790299
>Something about the virtue of valor
>The Comomder is into some strange books...

>>1790299
>>Something about the virtue of valor

>>The Comomder is into some strange books...

>>1785801
Don't want to rush you, but do you think you could give us an indication of how far we might be able to travel and how much time we will have to do it in a little before we get the option?

Maybe also put the other cities we have been to on the map? I really lose track of where things are myself without a picture to judge from.

>>1790429
The new map will have that info. I'll also see if I can get a more detailed map of North America to put a more detailed/political map of the region on.

You won't be leaving the country for a while. As long as the threat of the Legion looms, Altea will want you close by, but you'll be able to go wherever you want within Lubars.

"Something about the virtue of valor" You say. "Similar to what Namaki had to say about it. He says he should have more next time I see him, since I've rekindled his interest in the topic"

"He'd given up on Pure demons?" Derrick asks.
"Yeah. He started researching something similar to the machines the Grand Inquisitor had in his tower" You say. "He was actually the only scholar there when we went, because with everyone else gone he could use the big experiment room"

"The scholars left?" Leah asks. "Why? You guys had no reason to attack the archives"
"That's what he said" You say. "Either way, it was lucky that he was there"

"Anything else?" Derrick asks.
"Apparently the most detailed info on Pure demons comes from a dude named Toblerone" You say.
"Tolovon" Pip says.
"Yes, that's the one" You say. "And the Comomder is into some very strange boo-"

Pip covers your mouth.

"I've heard" Derrick says, as he raises an eyebrow at Pip.

Pip smiles awkwardly and steps back.

"So, virtues and crazy researchers and weird books" Madelaine says. "What's your plan now?"

>I'm hungry

>I want to go to the tower

>I'd like to takesome time off

>Other

>>1790577
>>I want to go to the tower

>>1790577
>>I want to go to the tower
but first, a matter more easily solved
>>I am hungry

>>1790577
>I want to go to the tower
>Get a good group of people to go with me. Need some fighters and experts I think.

>>1790577
>>I want to go to the tower
>>I'm hungry

>writing

"We still have to check out the tower" You say. "Wasn't that the whole reason you joined us?"

Madelaine straightens up. "Oh yeah..." She says. "I got caught up in the other reasons we were fighting, I forgot what mine was..."

"Well, mission accomplished anyway" You say. "I'll want to put together a good group before we go. Sounds like the tower is a dangerous place..."

"Why are you interested in going there?" Leah asks. "I hear it's a deathtrap"

"It's important" Madelaine says. "Everything we've found out points there..."
"You should probably get a scholar or two on your team as well" Marybell says. "Good fighters are one thing, but from what I've heard the dangers there aren't physical"

"Think Stoencht would want to join you?" Pip asks.
"It's worth asking about" You say. "But for now... I'm pretty hungry"

Leah chuckles. "Dinner isn't quite ready yet, but we can make our way into the dining hall to let them know we are" She says.

"Sounds like a plan to me" You say. "Lead on"

>1/2

You make your way into the dining room with the others.

Up towards the ceiling you see a pair of fancy lookin' light devices floating above the table, spaced evenly so they cast a warm glow on the entire room. The walls have several large paintings along them, and the table is set with fansy dishes and cutlery.

"Everyone has an assigned seat. I don't know where everyone is, but I know that Yuu is there" Leah says, as she points to a spot. "The rest will have a little nametag"

You're about to ask why she only had yours memorized, when you notice a little insert in the table next to you. On it there is a tiny table and chair, with a tiny plate on it and everything

"Is this for Coral?" You ask, as you examine the little furniture.
"Yes. We were informed that you're quite fond of your sprite" Leah says.

You poke your pocket to rouse Coral. "And you happened to have a tiny sprite table on hand?" You ask.
"Back when sprites as pets were considered fashionable, we apparently had a few people who were offended when we didn't have them... so now we do" Leah says.

"I wouldn't take offense... but this is pretty neat" You say. "Check it out, Coral. They've got a tiny table for you"

Coral floats out of your pocket and flies around the table to examine it. She then does a quick lap around the table before zipping into her seat, smiling contentedly.

...

"Happy?" Derrick asks.

>Still hungry...

>Yes

>Where could I get one of these?

>Other

>>1790903
>>Yes

>>Where could I get one of these?

>>1790903
>Yes

>Where could I get one of these?

>>1790903
>>Yes

>>1790903
>>Yes
>>Where could I get one of these?

>writing

>>1790807
Anyone have some thoughts on who we should bring with us when we go? I think Madelaine is a lock for plot reasons, and for same reason I would like to see if we could get Storm to come with us if we can find him. We'll also need Emi for when we get stabbed in the chest. If Ilica is available, I think she might also be helpful to have along as one of our long-term party members who isn't going to be heavily involved in getting the nation back on track at the moment.

Regarding scholars and support, I'd like to get Stoencht as he is close and handy and seems like he could help us puzzle out things. I'd also like to drop by Namaki and see if she can at least give us some advice. If she can be persuaded to come, I think she'd be quite helpful as well with her abilities and extensive experience.

Not at all against anyone else, but those jumped out at me as good choices. I'm kind of eliminating some people who I figure will be too busy to go too.

"If she's happy, I'm happy" You say, as you look over the little table insert. It looks like it's just attached to the side of the table... "Where could I get one of these?"

"You would have a hard time finding one these days... but if you want, we have several extra..." Leah says.
"You'd just give me one?" You ask.
"Consider it a gift" Leah says. "After all, I believe we missed your birthday"

"Awesome" You say, as you sit down.

The others all take their seats as well, with Leah on your right side, an empty seat on your left, and Pip across the table from you...

Pip catches your eye and motions to Leah, reminding you of what he was talking about earlier...

You turn to Leah, and she smiles, then looks confused as you shoot Pip a dirty look...

>Ask what these dinners are usually like

>Check who's sitting on your left

>Ask why they'd put you next to Leah

>Other

>>1791018
>>Check who's sitting on your left

>>1791018
>Ask what these dinners are usually like

>Check who's sitting on your left

>>1791018
>>Ask what these dinners are usually like

>>Check who's sitting on your left

>>1791018
>>Ask what these dinners are usually like

>writing

"So what are these things usually like?" You ask.

"Well, we'll eat, we'll talk... then that's about it" Derrick says. "Unless the Rynia's have something special planned"

"Not that I know of" Leah says. "We were going to line up some sort of entertainment, but then we remembered that we're hosting Lady Altea"
"Does the Comomder not like entertainment?" You ask.

"She likes to be entertained, just not with the standard noble fair, and not when there are important things to say and do" Pip says. "So I imagine this will be pretty quick?"

"Yes. We all have things to see to, I imagine" Leah says.

You nod, and lean over to the seat in your left to see the nametag. Leah's mother will be sitting next to you.

You turn back to see Pip smiling, as something lands in your lap from under the table. Looking down, you see a little crumpled up note. You unravel it, and it reads 'Signal me if you need help'.

Looking back at Pip, she gives you a quick wink as the adults enter the room.

"I guess everyone is hungry" Marcus says. "Tuck in, we'll be eating shortly"

Marcus, Lana, and Altea take their seats. Altea is between Marybell and Pip, while Marcus sits at the head of the table, next to Lana.

...

There's still 4 empty seats.

>Who's missing?

>Ask what the adults left to talk about

>Ask Leah what being a royal guard is like

>Other

>>1791162
>>Who's missing?

>>1791162
>>Who's missing?

>>Ask Leah what being a royal guard is like

>>1791162
>>Ask Leah what being a royal guard is like

>>1791162
>Who's missing
>Ask Leah what being a royal guard is like?

>writing

"Who are we missing?" You ask.
"Meyu, Gerard, and Zaine aren't here yet..." Madelaine says. "Figured they'd be late"

"That's 3..." You say. "Who's the fourth?"
"Ava" Madelaine says.

...

"You forgot about her, didn't you?" Madelaine asks.
"I did not. Though I did notice that it was unusually quiet..." You say.
"She's coming with them" Madelaine says. "According to the note they sent, Zaine had to give her a hand getting dressed"

"Should I be weirded out by that?" You ask.
"Nah, Zaine's a dad. Gerard is the weird one" She says.
"Oh, right" You say. "Does he ever go see his kids?"
"His wife moved north to get away from the conflict. He sends them part of his pay" Madelaine says.
"Well, now's a good time for a vacation" You say.

"Not for a sellsword" She says. "Hunters have had operations suspended for a while now, so they'll be looking for some temps. Once we're done at the tower, we'll be working with them"

"That could be a good opportunity for you as well" Emi says. "Learn about hunting from the pros, without having to commit to being a hunter"

"The Royal Guard will be looking for help as well, while the automatons are being reactivated" Lana says. "If you're looking for opportunities"

>Hunting sounds cool

>The Automatons don't just turn back on?

>I'll consider it

>Other

>>1791253
>>Hunting sounds cool

>>1791253
>>The Automatons don't just turn back on?

>>1791253
>I'll consider it

>>1791253
>>The Automatons don't just turn back on?
>>I'll consider it

>>1791253
>>Hunting sounds cool

>>The Automatons don't just turn back on?

>writing

"The automatons don't just turn back on once the generator is fixed?" You ask.
"Nope" Leah says. "They'll need to be reactivated manually and reattuned. Until then, the royal guard is city watch and defense force on top of our usual duties"

"I spoke about this with your parents. We'll be sparing a few divisions of the military to aid you" Altea says.
"Your military, or ours?" Leah asks.

"They're the same military now" Altea says. "But if you must know: ours"
"That's what I'd do too" Leah says. "At least until you know you can trust the people around here"

"Coming out here for this dinner in itself was a risk" Altea says. "But I believe it's a worthwhile one, given that I'll be needing your family's support"
"And you'll have it" Marcus says.

You turn away from the adult conversation to Leah. "So what's the Royal Guard like anyway?" You ask.
"It was pretty boring, until today" She says. "We'd mostly become a ceremonial outfit where nobles send their children to receive some combat training, but we're still supposed to protect the royal family if the palace is breached"

Leah sighs and leans back into her chair. "Ah you could see, we don't have much actual combat experience" She says. "Once the automatons went down we all panicked. We should have just stayed and guarded the palace, but someone suggested we jump on the cleaners and go after you..."

"And forgot that the cleaners are about as fast as molasses" Pip says.
"Yep" Leah says. "The next month will be interesting... we've got a lot of work to do, both to regain some respect, and maybe get some actual experience. As it is I think Owen might get nightmares from fighting you"

>Am I scary?

>If Altea stays here, her knights are good at training people

>You guys didn't do that bad...

>Other

>>1791475
>Other
>So long as I'm in the city I don't mind helping you all get experience dealing with someone like me.

>>1791475
>>Am I scary?
>>You guys didn't do that bad...

>>1791475
>>Am I scary?

>>1791475
>>Am I scary?
Am i not kawaii ~uguu?

>>1791475

>Am I scary?
>You guys didn't do that bad...

>writing

"Am I scary?" You ask.
"Not usually, no" Derrick says. "But anyone still fighting with a sword through their chest... that's scary"

"Oh..." You say. "I should apologize for that"
"Don't worry about him. He'll get over it" Leah says. "That was also his first time using that sword against a person too, so that might have something to do with it"

"Makes sense" You say. "And you guys didn't do that bad. The trap in the stairs nearly got us"

"The... trap in the stairs?" Leah asks.
"You guys didn't set that?" You ask.
"Not to my knowledge" She says. "I thought you guys did that to stop us from following you"

"Nope" You say.
"Strange... I'll get some people with me to investigate the rubble tomorrow" Leah says.

Before anyone can say anything more, a servant enters.

"Your other guests have arrived" He says, as he steps aside to make room for Meyu, Zaine, Gerard, and Ava to step in.

The 3 men are in suits similar to yours, and it looks weird on all of them. You guess you're just used to them wearing battle gear all the time.

Ava is in a bright yellow dress, in a similar cut to Pip's. Her hair and feathers are also yellow, in a shade that almost matches the dress. It honestly suits her. She chirps happily as she enters.

>Tell Ava she looks good

>Tell Meyu he looks weird

>Ask someone if it's time for food now

>Other

>>1791602
>>Tell Meyu he looks weird

>>1791602
>>Tell Meyu he looks weird

>>Ask someone if it's time for food now

>>1791602
>Ask Meyu who he is and how he got in here.
>Ask Ava who she is and how she got in here.

>>1791602
>Tell Meyu he looks good
>Tell Ava she looks weird

>writing

The 4 of them say their greetings to the hosts, and then sit down. The 3 men are on the other side of the table, next to Marybell. While Ava is next to Leah.

"You look weird" You say to Meyu.
"This is just what he looks like when he's actually clean" Zaine says.
"Yeah, and it only took half an hour and whole box of steel wool to get him that way..." Gerard adds.

"That sounds painful" You say.
"He's exaggerating" Meyu says. "Suits like these always look weird on somebody my size"

"What about me? How do I look?" Ava asks excitedly.
"You actually look pretty good" You say. "Yellow's a nice colour on you"

Ava chirps happily once again, clapping her wings. It makes no sound, but you don't think she cares.

"Well, now that everyone is here, we can eat" Marcus says. "Bring on the first course"

>1/2

When the food comes in, you do your best to focus on eating. It's all very good.

But Lana keeps you talking... thanks to Pip's insight, you're already onto her. Throughout the conversation she suggests that you stay in Leon, and work with the Royal Guard. She even offers to let you take a room here.

You tell her that you'll think about it, as you're still not sure what you want to do.

Meanwhile, Altea discusses future plans with Marcus. From what you can gather, the Comomder is relying partially on him to keep the rest of the nobles in line.

Beside you, Coral enjoys miniature versions of what everyone else is being served, including a tiny bowl of soup, a miniature salad, and an itty bitty piece of roast beef. She seems to enjoy being included, though it must be weird for the cooks to have to prepare tiny versions of everything.

Unfortunately, one of the maids comes in to fetch Delilah before the first course comes in, so you lose your little friend. Not that she was doing much other than purring and sleeping anyhow.

After all the other dishes, the meal ends with a piece of cake.

"What do you think?" Lana asks, as you take your first bite.
"It's good" You say. You would put it a level below Fran's, as far as cakes go. But you keep that to yourself.
"Glad to hear it. We get these from a dessert shop on the main stretch. You should take a look, if you've got a sweet tooth" Lana says. You know the next part before she even says it... "Perhaps Leah could take you"

You breathe out, and look across to see Pip looking at you with a raised eyebrow. As if to say 'had enough?'

>Give her the signal

>You're good

>Other

>>1791791
>>You're good

>>1791791
>>You're good

>>1791791
>You're good

>>1791791

>You're good

The Yuusters got this

>>1791791
>>You're good
we can take it

>writing

You give her a subtle thumb's up, and continue eating your cake.

Beside you, Coral is already finished hers... you think. The chocolate smear on her face could very well be the entirety of her dessert.

"How do you keep doing this?" You ask, as you wipe the sprite's face.

She slumps in her chair and gives a lazy thumb's up, which gets a chuckle from you. That meal was more food than she's ever eaten in a day... which makes you wonder if you haven't been feeding her enough.

"She's much more lively than the last sprites we've had at our table" Lana says. "And also more... how to say, appreciative. Like she enjoyed what she was eating"

"Yeah, she's one of a kind" You say. "But then most sprites don't eat anything but nuts and berries"
"Yes, when Lady Altea said this one could eat anything, we were quite surprised" Lana says. "I was curious to see it for myself, which is why I asked the cooks to make smaller versions of everything for her"

"And she definitely appreciates the effort" You say. "Right Coral?"

Coral smiles and tries to get out of her chair, only to fall back into it and give up. She then gives another thumb's up.

"Too full?" You ask.

Coral nods.

"You wanna take a nap?" You ask.

Coral nods.

"Okay..." You say, as you reach over, scoop her up out of her chair, and bring her up to your pocket so she can climb in. She settles in, leaving her arms hanging out. "Snug?"

...

"And she's alredy asleep" You say.
"A bit like real children that way" Lana says. "Leah was always quick to sleep after a meal. Right dear?"

...

You turn to see Leah starting to doze next to you...

>Let her doze

>Nudge her

>Other

>>1791911
>Let her doze

>>1791911
>>Let her doze

>>1791911
>>Let her doze

>>1791911
>Let her doze

>>1791911
>>Let her doze

>writing

Lana sighs. "I really wish she would at least excuse herself..." She says.

You shrug. "It's fine. I've fallen asleep in odd places too" You say. "Like that one time on top of the cart"

"Wasn't that because you'd used too much soul?" Derrick asks.
"Yeah... but it was still a weird place to fall asleep" You say. "Then there were the chambers in the Inquisition's stronghold. I mean, we all slept there. But it was weird"

"What were you doing there?" Marcus asks.

You frown. Did you just say something you shouldn't have?

"I sent them" Altea says. "After the massacre under Bell's Run, I felt that it was time for tem to see some justice"
"That must have been quite the fight" Marcus says. "Many of the Inquisitors at the stronghold were known to be powerful mages"

"There was no fight" Altea says. "Not against any Inquisitors, at least"
"What does that mean? Did they abandon the place to the monsters?" Marcus asks.

Altea turns to you and nods.

"They had been meddling with things they shouldn't have" You say. "The Grand Inquisitor opened a portal to the realm of a creature known by the Legion as the Black God. It transformed them into strange beasts. We didn't fight them, so much as put them down"

"Transformed into monsters? That's absurd" Marcus says.
"We have a preserved specimen coming here from Contique with some of our forces tomorrow" Altea says. "I've been in contact with several scholars of biology, and I'll be having them ake a look at it. You can come as well, if you have the stomach for it"

"I will accept that offer" Marcus says. "It's not that I don't believe you..."
"I know. I had to confirm it with my own eyes as well" Altea says.

You're about to add something, when Leah suddenly falls into you, continuing her nap with her head on your shoulder.

Lana smiles at the sight, and Pip raises her eyebrow again.

>Now

>This is fine

>Other

>>1792025
>This is fine

>Head pats

gonna TRICK this old lady!

>>1792025
>>This is fine
this is acceptable

>>1792025
>>Now

>>1792025
>This is fine

>>1792025
>Now

>writing

You take a breath. This is fine.

"Isn't that adorable?" Lana asks. "You two just look precious together"

You resist the urge to shrug, lest you knock Leah's head off your shoulder. "Not the first Felid to use me as a pillow" You say. "Remember the trip to Contique?"

"I have a tough time forgetting it some days" Derrick says. "Ilica still complains from time to time"
"Does she?" You ask. "I've never heard anything"

"She mostly complains to me about how I didn't read the manifest for our cargo" Derrick says.
"Huh..." You say.

Looking around, you see Emi peering at you over Ava.

"You okay, Yuu? You seem a bit pale" She says.
"Do I?" You ask.
"He does, now that you mention it" Marybell says.

Weird, you don't feel strange or off at all...

Emi slithers out of her chair and heads over to you, putting a hand on your forehead. "Hmm... excuse us for a moment" She says, as she gently leans Leah back into her chair, then takes you by the hand out the door.

She leads your back out into the main hall, and then into the entryway, where she lets out a sigh.

"Sorry... you looked like you could use a hand..." She says.

>I was fine

>Thanks

>So... there's nothing wrong with me?

>Other

>>1792134
>>Thanks

>>So... there's nothing wrong with me?

>>1792134
>>Thanks
>>So... there's nothing wrong with me?

>>1792134
>I was fine
but
>Thanks

>writing

"Thanks" You say. "That was getting a little awkward..."
"I noticed. It was actually making me a tad uncomfortable too" She says. "Lady Lana seems nice, she just isn't very subtle"
"No. Kidding" You say. "So... there's actually nothing wrong with me?"

"You should be completely fine" Emi says. "Though you do look a little bit tired, you don't look sick at all"

"Ok good" You say. "I was worried for a second there"

Emi giggles. "I was just covering you. I've been in that situation a few times" She says. "Having the doting parent playing up their child gets old pretty quickly"
"No kidding" You say.

"So what now? You can go back in if you want, and call it a false alam" She says.

>I am kinda tired...

>I'll stay a bit longer

>Other

>>1792196
>>I'll stay a bit longer

>writing

>>1792196
>Other
This castle place is kinda cool, do you think they have a treasure room?

"I'll stay a bit longer... but not too long. If Lady Lana asks me to bring her daughter up to bed or anything I'm out" You say.
"I understand" Emi replies.

"So did this happen to you a lot back home?" You ask.
"More than I care to admit" She says. "I could always rely on my grandmother to help me out... and I'd like you to rely on me the same way"

"I will" You say. "With you and Pip on my side, I'll stay single forever"

...

"That came out wrong" You say.

Emi giggles. "It's no problem" She says. "Pip's in on this too?"

You pull the note Pip passed you out of your pocket and show it to Emi. "She tossed this to me after Lana came in" You say.
"Oh... I thought she was giving you some weird looks" She says. "That makes more sense now"

The two of you walk back into the dining room... well, you walk, Emi slithers.

"Is he okay?" Derrick asks.
"He'll be fine. Just a little exhaustion" Emi says. "He can stick around for a bit, but he should get some rest soon"

"Yes, you've all had a long day" Marcus says, as he folds his hands over the table. "Let's get down to business..."

That's all for tonight!

Next thread should be tomorrow. Actually starting when I say it'll start this time...

As always I'll be sticking around for question/suggestion time.

>>1792240
Thanks for running

>>1792240
Thanks for Running Smiley
Wew I fell asleep before you ended from r the night

"Business?" Altea asks.

Pip lets out a sigh. "this is the part where you reveal we've all been poisoned, isn't it" She says.

"Poisoned? Oh, gods no" Marcus says. "We learned our lesson from the Hartgens. They poisoned their rivals, and the Queen had their family executed"

"The entire family?" You ask. "Even the kids? Seems kinda harsh..."
"The Queen of the time was not known for being merciful" Altea says. "Back on topic"
"Yes... there is a little security matter I'd like to discuss with you all..." Marcus says. "Two security matters, actually. The first being how you got through the city's barrier, and the second being how you knew the way to shut the automatons down..."

"Well the second one is easy" Derrick says. "I lived here for a long time, and used to help out with maintenance on the generator"

"You are... Prince Albion's ba-... son, correct?" Lana asks.
"Correct" Derrick replies.

Right... you'd forgotten about that being his 'cover story'.

"And what about the barrier?" Marcus asks. "That must have been someone on the inside..."

You look over at Altea, who shrugs as if to say 'up to you'.

>Show them the letter

>We got an anonymous tip

>Tell them it was the order

>Other

>>1793661
>Show them the letter

Heya Smiley.

>>1793661
>>Show them the letter

>>1793661

>Show them the letter
Inb4 Yuu accidentally shows them the letter from Cheska

>writing

"We got a letter this morning-" You say, as you reach into your pocket. "From some people in the holy order, telling us the barrier would be down"

You pull out the letter, but as you're about to hand it to them you notice the big red kiss mark on the bottom and realize that this isn't the right letter.

"Woops, that's... uhh... not the right letter" You say, as you stuff it back in your pocket. Probably too late, considering they all saw what was on the other side...

Glancing around the table, you notice a few interesting looks as you rummage through your pocket for the right one...

"There it is" You say, as you pull it out and hand it to them. "That's the letter"

Marcus takes it and looks it over. "It's blank" He says.
"Oh yeah..." You say, as you reach over and take the letter back. "I forgot normal people couldn't see what's on it... it says: To the pure demon, to whom the path to truth is plain as day. A debt to you will be repayed this day. We will open for you the skies of Leon, when the sun reaches its apex"

"Written in invisible in, then" Marcus says. "Interesting. A letter addressed to you, that only you could read"

"Maybe not. The emblem on the seal belonged to the Servants of Eternal" Altea says. "I'd imagine that invisible ink is something they use all the time"

"So it was the order... interesting" Marcus says. "And what is this debt they speak of?"

"We saved Storm, who's some kind of chosen one, from the Inquisition" You say.

"I will need to speak with the Grandmaster..." Marcus says. "I understand this was a special circumstance, but they still violated the city's security"
"Understandable" Altea says. "Though, keep in mind the the Servants don't actually report to him. The Grandmaster may know nothing of their involvement"

"Still, it's worth looking into" Marcus says.

"And umm... out of curiousity" Lana says. "What was that other letter?"

>It was from an admirer

>Private

>Oh would you look at the time?

>Other

>>1793812
>Private
>Oh would you look at the time?

>>1793812
>>Private

>>Oh would you look at the time?

>>1793812
>Oh would you look at the time?

>>1793812
>Private

>Oh would you look at the time?

>>1793812
> A friend who's just learning how to write, it's not very good

>writing

"It's... private" You say. "Not really the sort of letter I should be keeping in my pocket and would you look at the time? Wow it's late. Lots to do tomorrow so I'd better get home and get some rest and I'll see you guys on the flipside"

You get up without another word and head for the door, through the main hall, and out through the entry, where your Rook is still parked...

Once you're safely outside the building, you atop and take a breather.

"I need to have a serious discussion with that girl next time I see her..." You say.

"Which girl?"

You yelp and whip your head around to see Altea standing behind you.

"I came out to make sure you were okay" She says.
"Oh, yeah... heh heh" You say.
"That letter was from Cheska, wasn't it?" She asks.

You remain silent.

"Don't be surprised. You admitted to receiving one from her" She says. "And now I see why you didn't want to show it to me"
"You're not... mad?" You ask.
"Should I be?" She asks. "It's not like you were breaking any rules... though it does have a sort of 'forbidden romance' feel to it..."

>We weren't like that

>It does, doesn't it?

>Like something out of your novels?

>Other

>>1793961
>>We weren't like that

>>Like something out of your novels?

>>1793961
>>We weren't like that
Though i can understand how one might think that.

>>1793961
>We weren't like that
>Like something out of your novels?

>>1793961
>We weren't like that

>Like something out of your novels?

>>1793961
>It does, doesn't it?

>Like something out of your novels?

>>1793961
>It does, doesn't it?

>Like something out of your novels?

>>1793961
>It does, doesn't it?
>Like something out of your novels?
Made it in time for a thread!

>writing

>>1793969
>>1793991
>>1793993
>>1794002
>>1794012
>>1794023
See Pip run!
Run Pip run!

>>1794035
Adult Romance Novel Appreciation Club
Key members include Pip, Altea and Yuu

>>1794035
she'll be fine, she's got invisibility.

"We weren't like that" You say.
"I see..." She says.
"Why do you sound disappointed?" You ask. "I mean, I guess it does sound like something out of your novels..."

Now it's Altea's turn to look nervous. "Wh-what novels?" She asks.
"The romance ones" You say. "Pip showed me one while we were at the archive. They're an interesting read"

"Ah..." Altea says, as her cheeks turn a little red. "Not really a hobby one usually wants to share with their son..."

You shrug. "I've been told that we're both unusual people" You say.

She smiles. "Indeed" She says, as she hugs you and kisses your forehead. "Take care now, and get some rest. I'll talk to you in the morning"

"See you then" You reply.
"Oh and... maybe come up with a better place to put love letters than in your pocket" She says.
"It's not a love letter" You say.

"Then why was the back covered in kisses?" She asks.
"For testing" You say, as you pull the letter back out and show her the back. "I don't think she's ever put on makeup before"
"But she did for you..." Altea says with a slight grin.
"What?" You ask.
"Nothing" She replies, as she hands the letter back. "Just don't do anything stupid"

"I'll try"

You both wave to each other, as you mount up on the Rook and head back to the palace...

>1/2

When you pull up to the palace, one of the guards directs you to where you can park the Rook. This place seems to have designated parking for carts... and every cart here is very big and very fancy. Like the cart you found at the Inquisition's Stronghold.

You smirk as you pull the Rook into an empty space and turn it off. Let them have their fancy carts. You'll take speed over a gold trim any day.

Then you head back inside and start making your way to your room. Along the way, you run into Frederick. He's not in his suit of armor, though he is still wearing some leather armor, with a sword on his belt.

"Good evening" You say.
"Welcome back" He replies. "I trust your time at House Rynia was enjoyable"
"It was... kind of" You say.

"Lady Lana had some choice words for you regarding her daughter, I assume?" He asks.
"They weren't 'choice'... more like every second word was about Leah" You say.
"Subtlety has never been her strong suit" He says.

"So what's with the light gear? Are you off duty?" You ask.
"The First Knight is never truly 'off duty'" He says. "But the king is sealed in his chambers, so this is a sort of break. I actually have a matter I was hoping to speak with you about, if you have time"

>Sure

>Let me get out of this suit first

>How is the king doing?

>Other

>>1794120
>>Sure
>>Let me get out of this suit first

>>1794120
>Sure

>How is the king doing?

>>1794120
>Sure

>How is the king doing?

>>1794120
>>Sure

>>1794120
>>How is the king doing?

>>1794120
>Sure

>Let me get out of this suit first

>writing

"Sure" You say. "Dunno how good of a listener I'll be in this suit, but-"

"Undo the top two buttons on the shirt, and pull the string underneath the button on your pants" He says.

You reluctantly do as he says, and find that everything loosens up substantially. The tension around your shoulders is gone, allowing you to reach all the way forward, and the pants drop ever so slightly to give your legs more freedom. "Wow... whaddya know?" You say.

"That particular cut is known as a pressure suit" He says. "Meant to have all the tightness of a normal suit, focusing most of it on two easy to release points so it can be made more suitable for combat in an instant"

"Smart" You say.
"Thank you" He replies.

You tilt your head in confusion.

"It was me who designed it" He says. "When modern fashion entered its current state, I found the clothes I was being made to wear were hampering my ability to do my job. So I worked with the castle tailor to find a compromise"

"Neat" You say. "So what did you want to talk about?"
"Not here" He says. "Follow me upstairs"

>1/2

Frederick leads you to the balcony overlooking the city.

"So, what do you think of Leon?" He asks.
"It's very big" You say. "And very clean..."

"Indeed" He replies. "A good surface perception. Now what do you actually think of Leon?"

"It's clean, but that's just a surface thing" You say. "There are still bad areas, like any other town. It's like they're rying to ignore that fact by making sure everything is scrubbed..."

"People are good at ignoring things they don't want to see" He says. "Especially when they can find ways to distract themselves"
"Like having a civil war when there's an actual war that needs to be fought" You say.

"Indeed" He says.
"Or sending the prince to the death prison when he's trying to talk some sense" You say.

Frederick is quiet for a moment. "So Derrick has told you the truth of his parentage. He must trust you a great deal" He says. "That's good. People you can trust are hard to come by some days"

You say nothing.

"Do you know what the duty of the First Knight is?" He asks.
"To guard the king?" You ask.
"Precisely" He says. "Not to look after the king's best interests. Not to keep the country in good order. To guard the life of the king and queen, and their heir"

"Last I checked-"

"Yes, the queen and the original heir to the throne died" He says. "And were I there, then I would gladly have traded my life for theirs. But they went with some of the best knights in the land, and I thought they might be safe..."

>Is this what you wanted to talk about?

>So what did you do when they died?

>Other

>>1794340
>>So what did you do when they died?

>>1794340
>So what did you do when they died?

>>1794340
>So what did you do when they died?

>>1794340
>So what did you do when they died?

>>1794340
>So what did you do when they died?

>writing

"So what did you do when they died?" You ask.
"My duty" He says. "The remaining royal family still needed a protector. Unfortunately, there is one person I cannot defend them against..."

"Themselves?" You ask.
"Indeed. After suffering that crushing defeat while trying to get the princess and the queen back, i could only watch as the King drifted lower" He says. "I did ask the king to send Derrick away, instead of executing him... but treason is treason..."

You remain silent again... this is all stuff he should be saying to Derrick. In fact, you get the feeling Derrick and his father are going to need to have a discussion neither are going to like...

"But at the same time, I saw the queen's sister keeping faith" He says. "People were drawn to her movement, because she gave them some glimmer of hope in a world that is getting drearier by the day... but that is not what I asked you here for"

"Oh... so what did you want to talk about?" You ask.
"Lady Altea has informed us about the weapons the legion uses" He says. "I believe those were at the heart of our defeats, both when we lost the queen, and when we failed to take her back. I am told these things have no effect on you"

"That is true" You say. "They drain mana. Can't drain mana from someone who has none in the first place"

Frederick nods. "I would like to train you" He says. "Right now you are a passable fighter. I do not believe that passable will be good enough in the wars to come"

>I did okay against you

>what will this entail?

>When would I start?

>Other

>>1794441
>>what will this entail?

>>When would I start?

>>1794441
>what will this entail?

>When would I start?

>>1794441
>>what will this entail?
>>When would I start?

>>1794441
>what will this entail?

>>1794441
>When would I start?
>I think it's important to investigate the ruins soon too, though. May help against the Legion.

>writing

"What would this training entail?" You ask.
"You are a strong man, and a skilled fighter. That much I could tell just by crossing blades with you" He says. "But strong men and skilled fighters die all the time. We'll drill every day until you'd reached your breaking point, and then we'll push that breaking point until it's forever out of reach. If you're to be our only way of stopping the Legion, then I'll see to it that you're ready for that task"

"Sounds difficult..." You say.
"Easy things are seldom worthwhile" He says. "I understand if you wish to take up other opportunities. The Hunters will be looking for more people soon, and I guarantee there are at least ten scholars who want to study your capabilities but... it would put me at ease to know that you can do more than fight"

"More than fight?" You ask.
"To fight implies a chance of losing" He says. "I will show you how to win"

You nod.

"You'll want to visit the ruins first, I imagine. But after that... give it some thought" He says.
"I will" You reply.

He pats your shoulder. "Best of luck i your travels" He says. "and sleep well"
"Thanks" You reply.

Frederick walks back inside. You look out at the darkened city for a moment, and then-

>Pay Daria a visit

>Write some letters(specify to whom)

>Head to bed

>Other

>>1794603
>>Write some letters(specify to whom)
Emi, Stella, Cheska if we can.

>>1794603
>>>Write some letters(specify to whom)
>Cheska

>>1794603
>Pay Daria a visit

>Write some letters(specify to whom)
>Stella, Namaki

To clarify, you have no way of getting a message back to Cheska. You have no idea where she actually is, and Coral doesn't track her like everyone else.

>>1794603
>>Write some letters(specify to whom)
Stella, Cheska, Fran

>>1794616
Shit, forgot about best fluffy tail. Add Namaki to that list also.

>writing

>>1794634
>>1794633
Ah, well then i change out Cheska for Namaki.

You head back around to your room, mildly impressed on how much you've gotten better at navigating since you first got lost in Sherton.

And on the topic of Sherton, you still think this room is way too big. You recall fitting you, Emi, Derrick, Ilica, and the devils all into a room that was half this size... before a giant rock busted through the wall.

You take Coral out of your pocket and place her on the bed before taking your suit off and putting on your pajamas, then you head to the desk against the wall, find some paper and a pen, and get writing.

You've been out of contact since you got to Contique, so there's a lot of writing to do. You figure you'll keep it short and simple... and send one to... Fran, Stella, and Ches-... no, can't send one to Cheska... Namaki then. That works...

>Anything in particular you want to put in these?

>>1794719
Ask Fran how the little devils are doing.

>>1794719
Just talk about what we have been doing recently, how things have gone, and the whole virtue aspect of being a Pure demon.

>>1794719
Tell them about our conquest, and explain the current situation. Also ask fran about the devils.

>writing

>>1794719
General pleasantries for everyone. Update Stella on some of the people we met. Update Fran on some of what we've learned about pure demons. Tell Namaki we think we have resolved one of her problems with bringing civil war to end and think we might be going by Howling Tower soon. Say we might ask for her assistance or advice soon on that issue and may drop in if it's okay.

To all of them, you let them know what your current situation is like now that the war is over.

To Fran, you write a quick letter about how you met with Stoencht and what you learned from him. You also ask how the little devils are doing, and tell her to let them know you miss them.

To Stella, you talk about your new cousin, the offer you got from Frederick, and the fact that noble ladies are trying to hitch you up to their daughters. Then you ask how her garden is doing, and if Esther is settling in all right.

You aren't really sure what to say to Namaki... you tell her about what Stoencht said confirming what she told you, and how you're one step closer to actual peace. Then write that you'll probably be visiting soon, and leave it at that.

Then you seal up the letters and-

>Leave them there until morning

>Go look for the mail room

>Go find someone who knows where the mail room is

>Other

>>1794814
>>Go find someone who knows where the mail room is

>>1794814
>Go find someone who knows where the mail room is

>>1794814
>Leave them there until morning