>>2076205
>Other, use Chain Flares to clump them together and reduce mobility.

It's a fun ability that will probably be less useful when we get to the singles stage, so I don't see any harm in using it to cheese out a win here.

Smiley forgot to post the pastebins, so here's the spell list: https://pastebin.com/FrWimshH

>>2076205
>Stop the armored fighter's charge, trust Cheska to watch your back

>>2076231
I dunno, that would ruin the whole plan of keeping our magic secret until later in the tournament.

>>2076231
Right. I was originally planning on posting this in the old thread, but it fell off last night and I forgot to add the 'new thread' stuff. Links are here:

>/qst/ Thread Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Beyond%20the%20Gate
>QM Twitter: twitter.com/SmileytheQM
>General Info (Updated as I go): http://pastebin.com/ffH25ciB
>Spell List: https://pastebin.com/FrWimshH
>Quest Summary (up to chapter 38): https://pastebin.com/9aNStLUp

>>2076205
>Stop the armored fighter's charge, trust Cheska to watch your back
>>2076231
Tipping our hand this early isn't a good idea.

>>2076205
>>Stop the armored fighter's charge, trust Cheska to watch your back
>>Use our superior strength to try and knock him into the guy behind him, perhaps with a carefully timed blade burst technique to focus some force without killing the guy.

>>2076205
>>Stop the armored fighter's charge, trust Cheska to watch your back

>>2076205

>Stop the armored fighter's charge, trust Cheska to watch your back

Evening Smiley

File: APedophilicClown.jpg (34 KB, 564x706)

34 KB JPG

Did you watch HunterXHunter, or get the idea of Chain Flares from something else, Smiley?

>>2076274
Never really watched HxH. The idea for the spell is something that's been in my head for a while. It was originally inspired by the switch-hook from whichever LoZ game that was in.

>>2076266
Evening man.

>writing

Rolled 14 (1d100)

You pick up speed, planning on meeting him head on. You have no idea if it'll work, but you figure if you look confident enough in your ability to stop him then he might back down.

...

He's not backing down... you can handle that.

You bring your sword up to meet his as it comes down, crossing blades and putting all your weight into holding him back.

The added weight of the armor slides you back even after you've set your feet, but you manage to stop him.

As you expected, the southerner darts out from behind his partner, coming in fast and low where you won't be able to block without losing your fight against the armored man.

Fortunately Cheska is looking out for you. The southerner just barely gets out of the way as the entire area to your left explodes.

You smile. That'll buy you a few seconds. Time to make it count...

>Roll 1d100 with focus

Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>2076316

Rolled 62 (1d100)

>>2076316

Rolled 8 (1d100)

>>2076316

>>2076325
Pretty sute I hit the focus

>>2076328
+/-8 for focus, yup
means
>>2076320
Hit the focus too

>writing

Have you guys ever gotten a double focus before?

>>2076347
Not that I can remember

>>2076347
Don't think so

>>2076347
I just checked. Nope.

You duck low and bend your blade back, letting your opponent's blade slide off above you. Then you step forward and grab him around the waist, lifting him up and bending over backwards to drop him on his head.

Then you immediately regret doing that, as your back groans in protest to the strain you just put on it. Just how thick is that armor that it weighs that much? How in the hell does this guy even stand with all that on?

You set those questions aside and turn your attention to the easterner who moves in to stop you from finishing his partner off.

Again he comes in low with a deadly sweep of his sword, keeping you between him and Cheska so there are no further surprises.

You guard against his slash, which could easily have cut you in two. You guess this guy didn't get the memo that this first part is supposed to be non-lethal.

He's quick to follow up, leaving few openings as he slashes away at you. Fortunately, 'few openings' is not 'no openings'.

As he raises his sword for another strike, you step under his arms and headbutt him right in the nose. Then you sweep his leg and throw him to the floor.

You manage to disarm him by kicking his sword away before he can right himself... but then you hear stomping.

Turning away from the southerner for a brief second, you see the armored man is back up and charging. Several spots on his armor are glowing red, most likely from fireballs thrown at it by Cheska, and his helmet is completely crushed from when you dropped it.

...

>Get the hell outta the way

>Meet his charge

>How in the hell is he still alive?

>Other

>>2076387
>Meet his charge
Time to be stupid
https://youtu.be/SMhwddNQSWQ

>>2076387
>>Get the hell outta the way

>>2076387
>>Meet his charge
>>How in the hell is he still alive?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSvnxv_Mh2A

>>2076387
>>Meet his charge

>>How in the hell is he still alive?

>>2076387
>>Meet his charge
>Other, Judo throw? Can we do that?

>>2076387
>Get the hell outta the way

Pip has money on us sweeping this day's rounds, not being ragged and near-broken. halfway through them.

>>2076387
>Get the hell outta the way

>writing

Rolled 97 (1d100)

You dive out of the way and roll as you hit the ground, feeling the earth shake as the armored man stomps past.

"How in the hell is that thing still alive?" You ask.

You don't get an answer, as the southerner is now back on his feet. The armored... thing takes a wide turn and comes back around to charge at you again, fireballs plinking off its armor the whole while.

As the southerner moves to join his partner, Cheska wises up and changes her target. This leaves you to deal with... whatever that thing is...

>Roll 1d100 with focus

Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>2076445
We got this!

Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>2076445

>>2076449
Jinx.

>>2076450
>>2076449
Told you, we got this!

File: MAXIMUM_OVERTHINK.gif (2.79 MB, 338x338)

2.79 MB GIF

>>2076450
>>2076449

>>2076454
Not going to try for a third 95?

Rolled 77 (1d100)

>>2076445
come on, not a 1

Rolled 11 (1d100)

>>2076445

>writing

Well, those are rolls. I guess the dice gods really wanted you to win this one.

>>2076472
Got make the Comomder proud!

Okay, you have no clue what the hell this thing is. But you imagine that you'll find out if you tear its armor open...

So let's get to it.

You hop over the armor as it charges, hooking your blade underneath its back plate as you pass over it and wrenching it off.

There's another plate underneath, and the plate you pulled off was already way thicker than normal armor. Just what in-

Hang on.

You whirl and swing your blade behind you, connecting with the southerner's blade and then kicking him directly into a fireball before turning your attention back to his partner.

Despite the damage to its head, it doesn't slow down.

But with its partner currently out of commission, you're free to tear it apart at your leisure.

When it comes back around you kick it to the ground and jump on top of it, hooking your mageblade under its plates again and tearing away.

One plate comes off, then two... but the third comes away without you even having to touch it...

There's a person inside... it looks like a little girl with dirty brown skin and black hair. She fits nicely inside the torso of the suit.

"Alright, stop! Stop! You're ruinin' my dang suit!" The girl shouts.

...

>This means I win, right?

>... you're not what I was expecting

>Other>>2076475

>>2076506
>>... you're not what I was expecting

>>2076506
>... you're not what I was expecting
>Make the Comomder Proud

>>2076506
>... you're not what I was expecting
>Make the Comomder Proud

>>2076506
>Getting a little lethal there earlier weren't you?

>writing

"... you're not what I was expecting" You say.

The girl scowls and steps out of her suit. "What, never seen a gnome before?" She asks.
"Nope" You say. "So I win now, right?"

"Like hell! Take this!" She shouts, as her arm glows brown and the suit of armor lumbers back to its feet.

So that's what it was... a suit of armor controlled from within. That's how she could move it even though it was so heavy.

But you guess it must not be as strong when she's not in direct contact with it, since it's nowhere near as fast as it was.

...

You should probably do something, she might actually recover if you leave her be...

...

"Ow!" She says, as you bop her on the head. "That hurt!"

...

"Hey! Stop that!" She says, as you bop her again. "You wouldn't be hittin' me like this is I had my armor back!"

...

"Ow!" She says again, as you bop her a third time. This time she pouts and crosses her arms. "Fine, you win okay?!"
"That's what I wanted to hear" You say.

The bell finally rings, and Cheska makes her way over to you. You swear you can hear someone sniffling, and when you look down the gnome is holding back tears.

>See if the southerner is still alive

>Ask if she'd like a hug

>Tell them it was a good fight

>Other

>>2076551
>>Ask if she'd like a hug
>>Tell them it was a good fight

>>2076551
>Tell them it was a good fight
>Ask if she'd like a hug

>>2076551
>Tell them it was a good fight

>>2076551
>Ask Cheska why there's people without tails or animal ears here. Being tiny isn't really enough.
>See if the southerner is still alive
>Tell them it was a good fight

>>2076551
>>Ask Cheska why there's people without tails or animal ears here. Being tiny isn't really enough.
>>See if the southerner is still alive
>>Tell them it was a good fight
>>Ask if she'd like a hug

>writing

>>2076580
>>2076566
Not like this is the first tailless girl Yuu's met
I don't think the machine shop Goblin girl had a tail
And neither does our archer elf friend

>>2076596
They had ears though at least. This one's just a small human in appearance right?

>>2076566
>>2076580
>>2076596
I forgot to mention that she does have pointy ears. They're stubby little points, unlike Flit's longer ears.

>>2076605
If I remember correctly
The goblin was green with pointy ears and the elf ears
And the elf had elf ears, and had ultra fluffy hair
Maybe the gnome has some other characteristics we haven't seen yet, like some kind of inherent magic specialty or something

>>2076612
>The goblin was green with pointy ears and the elf ears
Phone plz
The goblin was green with pointy ears*

"That was definitely a good fight" You say. "You two put up a better fight than our last 2 opponents"
"We still lost" She says.
"Well... yeah" You say. "Would you like a hug?"

"M-maybe..." She replies.

Before you can do anything else, the officials come out to get the 4 of you out of the pit so the next fight can start.

While the gnome gets her armor moving again, you go and help the southerner out.

"My thanks" He says, clutching his side as you lend him a shoulder.
"No problem" You reply. "You guys fought well. It wouldn't be right to leave you to limp out"

"Not well enough" He says, as he removes his sword and sheath from the sash holding it at his waist. "My blade is yours, if you'd have it"

Right... southern tradition. You give up your sword when you're beaten...

On one hand, it is a nice sword... but on the other, maybe the hand that holds it would be more use to you in the long run...

>Keep it

>Thanks

>Other

>>2076608
She seems like earth elemental kind of gnome too as opposed to just off-dwarf. Have we heard of any elemental spirit types of girls? Would seem plausible for Pale Queen.

>>2076628
>>Keep it
>"A sword like that will do more good in your hands than mine" pull out mageblade "Besides it's not flexible enough for my swordsmanship"

>>2076628
>Keep it

>>2076628
>Thanks
I feel like accepting it would get us more friendship points than letting him keep it, since it is their tradition and all...

>>2076628
>Keep it
>I am inexperienced with that kind of weapon, but I would be honored if you wielded it on my behalf someday.

>writing

You shake your head. "Keep it. I'd have no use for a blade like that" You say.

The man frowns. "But-"
"But I would gladly accept if you'd be willing to wield it on my behalf" You say. "There's a war brewing, and I find myself with plenty of blades, but no hands to wield them"

"That I can accept" He says. "What is your name?"
"It's Yuu" You say.
"A fitting name for a warrior like yourself" He says. "I am Kou"
"Nice to meet you" You say.

He nods, as one of the officials takes over support duty so you can go back to your rooms, and you walk over to Cheska.

"So it was a gnome the whole time" She says. "Now I feel dumb for slingin' so many weak-ass fireballs at it. A normal armored dude would've been cookin' in his suit after all that, but she probably didn't even break a sweat"

"She seemed pretty sweaty when I cracked the armor open" You say.

Cheska shrugs, and starts walking. You follow along.

>Thank her for having your back

>Ask what's special about gnomes

>Other

>>2076665
>>Ask what's special about gnomes
>>Ask if other types of girls similar to gnomes.

>>2076665
>Thank her for having your back

>>2076665
>>Thank her for having your back

>>2076665
>Thank her for having your back
Just a quick "thanks for having my back".
then
>Ask what's special about gnomes

>writing

>>2076665
>Thank her for having your back

"Thanks... y'know... for having my back" You say.

She smiles and rests her head on your shoulder. "Aww, you're welcome" She says. "We're partners now, remember? If I don't have your back, who does?"

"Nobody, I guess" You say. "Also, what's so special about gnomes?"

"That kind of metal magic is something only they can do" She says. "Normal earth mages can only move earth and stone. Gnomes can do it with metal"

"Ohhhhh..." You say. "Is that like how only kitsune can make illusions?"
"Kinda, but they're not like kitsune" She says. "There isn't a one in a million chance that some other girl will come out as a gnome. Gnomes give birth to gnomes... and if I'm right, then the boys get that metalcraft power as well"

"Neat" You say. "There's probably a book I can pick up about that... I'm still learning about the various kinds of girls"
"I'm sure someone must have put in the work to write some info down about all of us" She says. "The real question is: what kind of dude would do that?"

"Probably the kind of guy that-

>Really likes cataloging stuff

>Really likes girls

>Who says it was a dude?

>Other

>>2076700
>This kind of dudge. Point at self.

>>2076703
Meh. This kind of dude. Keyboard went crazy.

>>2076700
>>Really likes girls
But
>>Who says it was a dude?

>writing

"-really likes girls" You say, as you turn and head into your room. "Y'know, like me"

You go back to your chair and sit down. Cheska steps in front of you does a little twirl, and then sits in your lap

"Think you could scratch my back?" She asks. "It's been killing me for a while now"

You roll your eyes and put a hand up the back of her shirt, scratching her between the shoulder blades. Cheska sighs and settles into you.

"And who knows? Maybe the book on girls was written by a girl" You say.
"Wouldn't that be a nice surprise" She says. "Nobody would know the troubles of girlhood better than a girl would"

"And everybody seems to have plenty of troubles" You say. "Emi has to keep warm at all times, Ilica is constantly cleaning her fur, Flit looks 12 when she's actually in her late 20's, you've got this itchy spot on your back"

"S'not so bad when you've got a cute boy to scratch it for you..." She says.

You wait to respond, that was not an 'I'm done' kind of pause.

"So if you could hook me up with your buddy Derrick..." She says in a playful tone.
"Sure thing, just as long as you're willing to be my wingman too" You say.

She giggles and relaxes a bit more...

"Y'know, I don't think we've really gotten a chance to catch up" You say.
"We have.. a little bit" She says, as the bells go off outside. "But I won't be getting the sleep I want, so why not now?"

>Ask about her time with the mercenaries

>Tell her about how the rest of the war went

>Tell her about your time at the archive

>Ask how long it took her to write that letter

>Other

>>2076736
>>Ask about her time with the mercenaries

>>2076736
>Ask how long it took her to write that letter
>We can help you with that if you want

>>2076736
>>Ask about her time with the mercenaries

>>Tell her about how the rest of the war went

>writing

"So what has it been like serving with mercenaries?" You ask. "You really got in quick with them... I think I got your letter like a week after you left"

"I didn't hook up with them up here... Heck, I was barely out of Lubars when I met the recruiter" She says. "It was a company that got a big contract to patrol a main road and take care of a few bandit dens along it. They were desperate for good killers since they were in way over their heads"

"And you provided" You say.
"I didn't do all that work" She says. "Plenty of people joined, and a lot of them are probably here for the tournament now"

You nod. "Anyone give you trouble for being a demon?" You ask.
"Nah. It's funny, people kinda hate us when things are peaceful and they want to keep it that way, but when things are bad... well, someone willing to kill for you is better than someone willing to kill you" She says. "Thanks for the concern, anyway"

"Speaking of the letter... how long did it take you to finish that anyway?" You ask.

Cheska's face reddens. "I uhh... got carried away with that one" She says. "Got the image of what a good kiss mark should look like in my head, and when it didn't come out that way... well..."

"So you tried and tried and tried" You say.
"I did" She says. "It was originally just a playful little smooch that I was gonna leave on there, but it kinda got a little out of hand..."

"Well, I certainly had trouble explaining it to anyone else who saw the letter..." You say.

Cheska giggles. "Oh, I didn't think of that" She says. "Must've been super awkward"
"It was kinda, yeah" You say.

"Aww... how about I make it up to you?" She asks.
"And how would you do tha-"

She pops up and gives you a big kiss on the cheek, then settles back into your lap. "Better?"

>That's not what I was thinking

>Not really...

>Other

>>2076761
>Not really...
>Give her a proper kiss

>>2076761
>>Not really...
Food maybe?

>writing

>>2076761
>>That's not what I was thinking

Hey smiley, how far off are we from the route lock anyways?

>>2076783
I would never trust an answer from a QM regarding that question

"Not really..." You say.

"No? Well how about this?" She asks, as she comes back up and gives you another kiss on the cheek, then another, and then another on the other side...

"I was kinda thinkin' something like-"

Cheska puts a finger to your lips and shifts herself so she's straddling your waist. "I missed you" She says.
"Yeah... I kinda missed you too" You reply.

She gives you a warm smile, and presses her lips against yours... but only for a second, as she immediately backs off as someone enters the room.

"Oh... uhh... sorry to interrupt, but I was told to inform you that next round is your break, and that food will be brought to your room shortly" The person says. They then turn and exit without another word...

...

You look back at Cheska to see that her face is redder than usual still.

"S-so... I guess these guys don't knock, huh?" You ask.
"Yeah... I guess not" She replies.

...

You both break out and start laughing, as she settles back down into a position where you can easily scatch her back.

"So... only kinda missed me?" She asks.
"Well I was pretty busy" You say.

>1/2

>>2076783
I kind of have impression that it's more a matter of when we go X far with a girl, like rescuing Stella immediately. No idea where line is drawn with most girls, but I'd think we'd have to settle with Pale Queen and Legion before we could consider completion with a lot of them.

>>2076788
Not necessarily. There will be a big event involving pretty much the entire cast, and the route lock will happen after that.

>>2076792
I don't trust you when you say that Smiley

Doesn't matter, none of them stand a chance against namaki she already won.

"The archive, huh?" She asks. "What's it like there?"
"Well there's a lot of books... and a lot of people reading books... and a lot of people studying the stuff in those books..." You say.

"Sounds like a hoot" She says.
"It was alright" You say. "Kinda boring at times, but I definitely came out stronger than I went in. Plus Fran was there with the little devils, so I could go hang with them when reading got too boring"

"Oh yeah? How's she doing?" Cheska asks.
"Lance got transferred to Leon, so she's been spending time at the archive while she isn't watching the kids" You say. "The other upside is that there are some good pyromancers both in the archive and at the Leon hunter's guild, so Lily hasn't been lacking for tutors"

"She should just send her up here to me" Cheska says. "I can teach her how to pyromance properly"

"You don't even know how to pyromance properly" You say.
"Okay yeah maybe yesterday I couldn't, but I can now!" She says.

You take your hand off her back and pat her head. "I'm sure you can" You say.

Cheska pokes her tongue out at you, sliding off your lap as another person enters the room... this time with food.

"Well, it's about time" You say.

That's all for tonight!

Next thread will be tomorrow.

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

>>2076792
Well, whenever "route lock" is available I presume it's heavily dependent on what came before. You said as much for Stella, and I presume going with Emi versus going north would also have significant effects on Cheska and Emi for obvious reason of them appearing a lot or not at all.

Namaki we really have to clear up everything enough to get her to leave her house. You've alluded to Pale Queen and Altea both being theoretically available, and I also can't see that happening before war is over. Same for all the girls in the military.

Unless we get "route lock" in progressive stages and have to hold out for later options, I have a hard time seeing it happen earlier. That's mostly why I said what I did.

I think what I wonder most now is how we actually are acquiring the points and when we are considered to have dug in too deep. given significantly higher amounts of cuddling lately.

>>2076802
Thanks for Running Smiley
So you've been on the weat Coast for a while now, how are you enjoying our weather?

>>2076805
It rains so much where I am. But I have waterproof everything now, so it's not so bad.

>>2076803
I'll be real with you guys, as far as romance goes you're wayyyyy off the rails at this point. The "main girls" were originally supposed to be Emi (who is pretty much not in the running anymore) and Ilica. Even Stella was never actually going to be a recurring character. The desk bunnies were going to be like the nurse joys: just kind of there, being perky and cute whenever you went into the guild halls.

A lot of this is because I didn't plan a lot of things very far ahead and threw in some characters who weren't in my original outline along the way, but I also didn't expect you guys to get so attached to the cute desk bunny or the pyromaniac in the dungeons.

>>2076822
>It rains so much where I am
Hahahahahaaaaa this has been an extraordinarily dry year for the whole province
Especially if you are near Vancouver, Squamish, Whistler, Sechelt and the sunshine coast area and alot of Vancouver Island

But the Pyromaniac from the dungeon is the best girl! She's even the aunt of the bestest Girls Lilly and Daisy!

>>2076825
Please note that when I say Vancouver I mean the greater Vancouver area of west Van, North Van, downtown Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, New west

>>2076826
Oh and Richmond

>>2076822
I honestly figure we are down to Stella, Cheska, Namaki, and then some left field come from behind where everyone agrees Pale Queen is in fact best girl or something. I think the other girls' ships have sailed for the most part, much as I like some of them.

I still think Namaki is best, barring someone new. Stella has not convinced me she can adventure effectively with Yuu, which I feel is necessary. Cheska just seems too much about shared ills of being a demon and I'm not really sure as that's either healthy or helpful to Yuu as I think he needs to go a different route than she is going. Namaki on the other hand brings a lot of knowledge and skill we lack and has a perfectly complimentary magical ability. Also just seems like more unexplored character depth to me too. I really wish we could have convinced her to come to tower. That was really the major point to visiting her for me.

>>2076831
Who said the they needed to be an adventurer like us? plus we won't know how Stella does until she actually goes on one. I prefer Stealla over Cheska then again I also perfer Hella over her as well. I really don' see the appeal of Cheksa even though she is for some reason one of the waifus people are aiming for.

>>2076825
Not really, if we are going by Best girls traits then it would probably be someone like Emi. Only thing Cheska does is tease which nearly every other girl has done to Yu at some point.

>>2076835
I'm a fan of Cheska, but in my opinion, Emi is the most optimal choice. Snakes are ridiculously strong for their size. They're pure muscle. Emi's proven she's strong when she casually grappled one of the four knights. I can't remember which one. Plus, snake fu and healing magic. Having a healer on hand is always useful.

>>2076837
>>2076835
Fun fact: In my original version of Beyond the Gate the main love interest was named Amy, and she had the traits of both Ilica and Emi, being both the caring big sis and the prickly tsun. In theory, this would make her waifu extraordinaire, but in practice it made her seem like a complete psycho whose actions never made any sense.

So when I adapted my old story to be quest-able I separated her into 2 characters, those being Ilica and Emi. Then I made them cat and snek girls respectively, because why the hell not?

>>2076847
I could honestly do a million of these "What Beyond the gate used to be" posts. I've been working with this world and its iterations since I was in high school, and there are a ton of things that somehow relate back to stuff from previous versions.

>>2076847
Jesus Christ sounds more like she had some serious mental health issues.

>>2076859
I may have exaggerated a bit. She would mostly act like Emi normally but turn into the prickly tsun whenever someone tried to get close/brought up a few specific things, unlike Emi who tends to clam up or laugh things off.

It seemed really off when I was going through my old stuff, but then I wrote much of that in high school. Maybe I could have found a way to make it work now, but I'm happy with how Emi and Ilica turned out.

>>2076833
They don't need to be adventurers in theory, but presumably a lot of what Yuu does in the future will be world traveling to other ruins, etc. While I like Stella, I have trouble seeing her fitting into that storyline right now. And we ultimately have to base things on "now" when we make our choice. Anything "could" happen. So far she has just come across as a civilian

I don't dislike Cheska, but I agree I don't really see why she's a good match either. I don't have a substantial dislike, but she's fairly far down the list for me. I'm just acknowledging she seems to still be the running.

>>2076837
Emi was my second choice after Namaki due to story interaction and her healing capabilities. Not having her along on this most recent adventurer has made things substantially more dangerous. It has definitely affected how I voted.

>>2076851
I'd be interested at least in hearing about some other permutations as it came up.

I can't understand the want for Namaki.
For all intense and purpose she has already had her route lock, she had kids, raised them had a full life with her family, raised her grandchildren and their grandchildren.
What could Yuu possibly offer her?
And am I the only one who finds a 300+ year old woman wanting to hook up with barely 15 year old boy as unbelievably creepy?

>>2077480
>intense
Phone plz
Intents*

>>2077480
I think it's because she's just a really favorable pairing if you want to have an OP waifu. That said, the chances of her coming with us would be basically 0 unless we can convince her that going on one last hoo-rah would be more interesting than spending time with her grandchildren/successor.

I have wanted Tsun-cat from day one, although it seems like that train left the station when we stopped interacting much after we were put into the army (and she went to the hunters). She's got a fairly high-strung and broad-ranged personality, so even if things don't work out, it'll probably help Yuu get better at dealing with people.

Emi is for big sister role only. I'm pretty sure if we attempted to date her, she'd have a heart-attack every week until we broke up.

Cheska is too immature emotionally for Yuu. Well, they're both too immature together to be a functional couple. Too much baggage from both parties just means they'll have surface level stuff in common, but will probably end up frustrated with their inability to help solve the root-cause of each other's issues (and interdependence gets real fucked real quick).

Mealtime ends as the bell tolls again, signaling the end of the match before yours.

"Well the bright side of all this is that the food they serve during the competition is much better than what they give you before" Cheska says.
"I guess well-fed fighters put on a better show than the alternative" You say.

Right on time, an official comes to fetch you and bring you to the pits.

"Alright" The official says. "Give a good fight out there. It looks like this will be the deciding match"

You tilt your head. "Our last opponents lost one?"
"They lost to this team in the last round" The official says. "Frankly, I don't see how you two will beat them. But you never know"

You scowl. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were underestimating us" You say.
"Not underestimating you... just... they're tough opponents. And the one weapon..." He says. "You'll see when you get out there"

You nod, suddenly worried about your next match.

When you get out into the pits, you see what he means.

One opponent is very large and very muscular. She has huge, furry white paws, white hair, and round, furry ears on top of her head. She is also wielding what appears to be most of a tree... a strange choice of weapon, but you definitely won't want to take a hit from it.

She looks very tough, which makes it odd that she seems uncomfortable about her partner.

One look is all it takes to know why.

He's a handsome man, with styled hair, pale skin, deep red eyes, worn black armor, a blood-soaked tabard with a heart cut out, and an axe with a haft of bone and an edge of teeth that appears to be staring at you.

"A legionnaire" You say.
"I recognize that one" Cheska says. "He was an Antolian commander once"
"Oh yeah?" You ask.

"Discovered the joys of murder at the start of the war when he helped the puppeteer put down his entire unit" She says. "You're on your own with him. That axe'll just eat all my fire when it gets close"

"Well, on the bright side his partner brought some firewood with her" You say.
"Great way to disarm her... which is why it probably won't work" She says. "I'll have to be creative"

The bell rings, and a manic smile widens across the demon's face. Then the ground under him springs up, launching him towards you.

So that's his play, huh? Against a normal opponent, he wouldn't be vulnerable in the air as magic can't touch him. But you...

>End this quickly with a spell

>Take him head on

>Other

>>2078713
>>Take him head on

>>2078713
>Take him head on
>Other: Test the Wind stone from the Howling Ruins.

I doubt we're going to get out of this unscathed without blowing some of our power. It would also help to get a dry test of if the wind power-up can even work against mana-eating weapons.

>>2078713
>End this quickly with a spell
A Boon showed up. All bets are off.

>>2078713
>>End this quickly with a spell
Let's take what surprise we have and kill him quick. I think we are at too much risk of injury and too much risk of him attacking us after the match as well.

>writing

>>2077480
>>2078555
She's powerful and makes a good combination since she is an illusionist and Yuu is immune to illusions. That makes them work very well together as Yuu is not subject to friendly fire. Yuu and her also compliment each other intellectually as both show an interest in learning. Namaki is really bored with everything around her and stagnating, and Yuu wants to go exploring in new world.

Her successor is not even born yet, so it will be quite a long time I think until that rolls around as an issue. I think the past "route lock" is also kind of irrelevant at that point as it was probably over with before the majority of peoples' grandparents were.

Also I just don't see Yuu as a fifteen year old. He clearly has a significant past history that and his present history involves a huge amount of death and warfare. I question his actual age physically, mentally, and chronologically. He's really rather creepy himself. This is another reason I think it's good for him to have some mature with perspective rather than someone who has their own problems.

>>2078863
I can see a teacher student dynamic between Yuu and Namiki
But not a romantic one

You set your stance and prepare to dodge as he approaches

As the demon comes crashing down, you sidestep him and leap back as he sweeps wide with his axe.

You hate to admit it, but this guy clearly knows what he's doing, despite his crazed look. You were hoping there'd be an opening after he landed...

A wall of earth comes up behind you, forcing you to stand your ground against his next strike. So you do, meeting his axe with your blade.

Much to his surprise, both you and your blade hold strong against his assault. After holding him off for a moment, you force him back and begin an assault of your own.

No doubt his boon has given him a free ride through his last matches, but that ride ends here.

You also notice that his partner seems content to sit back... she doesn't look ready to fight, or even like she's paying attention. She just kinda looks... sad.

You could imagine that someone actually wanting to earn their way to the top would get dejected when their partner is... this guy...

So you'll have to make this quick.

>Roll 1d100 with focus

Rolled 63 (1d100)

>>2078902

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>2078902
Also focus

Rolled 64 (1d100)

Here goes something.

Rolled 25 (1d100)

>>2078902

>writing

You meet his axe, again and again... but forcing him back is one thing, actually striking him is another.

But at least you're on the front foot... until you trip.

A bit of ground comes up under your foot, making you lose your footing and stumble back. Suddenly you've lost your advantage.

Guarding against the heavy axe is much more difficult than attacking into it, and having to watch every step in case he tries to trip you again is taxing your focus.

You aren't certain if you can beat him without your spells... just one could be all you need. But which one?

>An offensive one

>A defensive one

>A blade technique

>Other

>>2078995
>>A blade technique

>>2078995
>Scattershot
>Follow-up with Blade Burst once he's on defensive to crush his guard.

>>2078995
>A blade technique

>writing

You figure you'll use one that doesn't give too much away. If you start spamming bolts or using your bucklers then people will know you aren't just a swordsman.

But if all you use is your sword...

You focus everything into the tip.

Your opponent continues his assault, but now you have to stand your ground. You can't focus on your guard, the ground, and your blade all at once.

Holding position is not easy on your body, but it is easier on your mind.

When you're finally ready to let off your blade burst, you make a sudden thrust through one of his attacks.

Your opponent is forced to bring his axe back to block it and your sword goes right into its eye. Then the tip explodes, blowing a giant hole in the weapon itself.

The axe writhes in pain, and as its owner struggles to get a hold of it you-

>End the fight

>Kill him

>Other

>>2079105
>>Kill him

>>2079105
>Kill him

I don't even care what else happens, those things need to fuckin go.

>>2079105
>>Kill him

>>2079105
>>Kill him

>writing

Heartbreaker time!

You raise your blade, and his senses seem to come back for him. Your opponent brings his axe back up to guard, but it writhes out of his grip and falls to the floor.

Your blade comes down hard and fast into his neck. He sputters for a moment and then collapses.

Across the arena, his partner throws down the log they were wielding and the crowd roars.

The bell tolls again, and a few men rush out either to heal your fallen opponent or drag him off. Most likely to drag him off, as he won't be getting back up anytime soon.

You take his axe and go to his partner.

"Why didn't you fight?" You ask.
"I came here to be a champion" She says. "I could not be a champion fighting beside a creature like that..."

"Well... thank you. I doubt I could have beaten both of you" You say.

The woman holds out a hand. "If I cannot be a champion, then losing to one is next best thing" She says.

You take her hand and give it a shake.

"I am Freya" She says.
"Yuu" You reply. "And my partner is Cheska"
"Well met" She says. "Perhaps I will see you again"

You nod to her, as she heads back to her room. Then Cheska slips up beside you.

"So what now?" You ask.
"Now we're done" She says. "Someone'll be by to tell us that we won and will be advancing, and then we're good to go. The only question is where to?"

>Go check in on Hella

>Look for Pip

>See if you can find your opponents

>head to the apartment

>Other

>>2079204
>Look for Pip
After that
>Check in on Hella

>>2079204
>>See if you can find your opponents
>>Destroy the axe. They aren't recovering this one.

>>2079204
>Look for Pip
Gotta find out how much fat loot she raked in

>>2079214
this

>>2079204
>>Look for Pip

>writing

"We'll wait a bit, then we can go find Pip once the tournament is actually over" You say.

You head out of the pits, and after an official informs you that you'll be advancing from your bracket, you head for the exit.

"What are you gonna do with that, anyway?" Cheska asks.

You hold up the axe. Its remaining eye is wide and manic, as though it's still in pain.

"Well if they can be hurt..." You say, as you close your eyes and pump soul into the disgusting weapon.

It shrieks. It writhes. It even tries to whip around and strike you. All the while its colour fades, and its squirming slows until it stops moving.

You then drop it as it turns to dust.

"They can be killed" You say.
"How come you didn't try that before?" She asks.
"To be honest, they freaked me out a little too much" You say. "That required more contact and focus using such a thing than I would ever really want to do"

"Well its gone now" She says.
"And the rest are soon to follow" You say. "I don't know why they wanted the ones we had back so badly, but they aren't getting their hands on this one"

You get outside the arena, and see many fighters milling about. Looks like everyone's talking about the fights, trading secrets and such...

You spot Freya, as well as Kou and the gnome here.

>Talk to Freya

>Talk to Kou and the Gnome

>Other

>>2079287
>>Talk to Kou and the Gnome

>>2079287
>>Talk to Freya.
>>Tell her the axe is dead.

>>2079287
>>Talk to Freya

>>2079287
Backing >>2079304
(While we keep an eye out for Pip)

Also, what are the odds the demon asshole is actually dead? I thought that even with a slit throat, they can still be alive (especially with healers on hand).

>writing

>>2079321
Hopefully if cutting his throat didn't kill him then killing his weapon did. Reasonably likely it has some kind of parasitic relationship I'd think. We may want to check up on it later.

You walk over to Freya, who is still carrying the giant long she was wielding in the pits...

"You sure came out quick" You say.
"I was not injured and had nothing in that room" She says. "Was waiting to congratulate you"

"Oh... well thanks" You say. "I'd say it was a good fight, but you didn't really participate..."

"Is fine... perhaps the old ways are not for me" She says.

Cheska steps up. "What was your wish anyway?" She asks.

"My family's ancestral relic was given away centuries ago... I wish to track it down, so that I might prove myself worthy of it" She says. "Yourself?"

"Well I'm sick of being a demon, and Yuu here wants to destroy the Legion" Cheska says.
"A noble goal. The world is better off without them and their... monstrosities" Freya says.

"It's short one now. I destroyed your partner's axe" You say.
"Good riddance" She says. "But for now I should return home... I live here in the capital. Perhaps I could watch one of your matches"

"I'd like that" You say.

Freya hefts her giant log, settling it onto her shoulder, then she heads off...

>Talk to Kou and the gnome

>You've probably got time to check on the bun

>See if there are any other interesting characters here

>Other

>>2079355
>Talk to Kou and the gnome

>>2079355
>>Talk to Kou and the gnome

>>2079346
>Talk to Kou and the gnome

>>2079355
>>See if there are any other interesting characters here
Scope out the opposition.

>writing

You walk over to where Kou and the Gnome- you should probably ask for her name -are standing.

The gnome is sitting up on her armor, having shaped out a seat where the head would be. She's the first to spot you, waving with both her own arms and the armor's arms.

...

Can it really be called armor when there's no one in it, or is it just a golem or something?

...

"Hello again, Yuu" Kou says. "I hear you emerged undefeated"
"It was a hard fight, but we won" You say. "How did you fare?"

"We lost to you, and to the crazed demon with the strange axe" Kou says.
"He was from the Legion. Their commanders all wield weapons like that" You say. "You guys weren't hurt, were you?"

"We emerged mostly unscathed... though it was close" Kou says.
"Well that's good to hear, it-" You look up at the gnome to find her pouting angrily at you...

...

>Stop that

>Do you still want a hug?

>What was your name again?

>Other

>>2079419
>>Do you still want a hug?

>>2079419
>>Do you still want a hug?
>>What was your name again?

>>2079419
>>Do you still want a hug?

>writing

"Do you still want a hug?" You ask.

The gnome nods, so you reach up and pluck her off her seat to pull her into a hug. She's oddly heavy for her size, being only a little taller than the devils... and her hair very soft too. Maybe even on par with Flit... and she doesn't appear to mind getting her head petted.

"I'm still mad that you beat us" She says.
"Well I couldn't just let you win" You say.

She grumbles about that, but doesn't say anything more.

"So now that you're out of the running..." Cheska says.
"You want to know what we wished to ask of the queen?" Kou asks.
"How'd you guess?" Cheska asks.

"It is one of the most curious things about everyone here" Kou says. "Myself, I wanted to prove and hone my strength here, so I could return home and defeat my brother... but it seems I still have a ways to go yet"
"Family troubles, huh?" Cheska asks. "What about you?"

"The Legion kicked my people out of our mountain!" The gnome says. "I want my home back"

"Oh?" You ask. "What was your name again?"
"Maellen" The gnome says.

>Ask where her people are

>You might be in luck...

>Can all your people fight like you?

>Other

>>2079517
>>Ask where her people are
>>You might be in luck...
>>Can all your people fight like you?

>>2079517
>You might be in luck...

>>2079517
>>You might be in luck...
>>Can all your people fight like you?

>>2079517
>You might be in luck...

>writing

"You might be in luck" You say. "You see, my plan is to unite the continent and bring their combined might to smash the Legion"

"So...?" Maellen asks.
"So... once the legion is gone..." You say.

"I don't follow" She says.

...

"Can all of your people fight like you?" You ask.
"Most of us, yeah" She says.
"If you help us fight the Legion, we'll help you get your mountain back" You say.

Maellen's eyes brighten, and she gets a big smile on her face. "Really?" She asks.
"Absolutely" You say, as you continue to stroke her hair. "I mean... I've gotta win this if I want to get the northerners on my side, but I've already crossed one hurdle towards that"

"Does the continent include the islands?" Kou asks.
"It does" You say.
"Do you plan on going there yourself?" He asks.

>My friend Emi has it handled

>Possibly...

>Other

>>2079574
>Possibly...
>My friend Emi has it handled

>>2079574
>>My friend Emi has it handled

>>2079574
>Possibly...

>>2079574
>>2079578
Backing.

Now to potentially learn more about Emi's mysterious noble past!

>>2079574
>My friend Emi has it handled

>writing

"Possibly... but not to gain their allegiance. My friend Emi has that handled" You say. "She left for the isles the day before I came here. She should have landed on Ebiha isle a few days ago"

"Ebiha isle?" Kou says. "A strange place to go first. Why not the larger Sakiya isle?"

"Ebiha is where she grew up" You say, as you look around to make sure there are no eavesdroppers or ladies with big ears. "Her full name is Emi Myuashi"

Kou looks surprised. "Emi... Myuashi?"

"You know her?" You ask.
"Only by the stories... I myself am a lesser noble, a Shinku from the isle of the same name" He says. "I've heard that she was beautiful, so beautiful in fact that the lord of Sakiya was to take her as his bride... before she vanished some months ago"

"I guess she is beautiful... but she also kicks some serious butt" You say. "And I have faith that she can succeed... I just hope that it doesn't come at the cost of her own happiness"

The 4 of you go silent for a moment, until a "Heeeeyyy Yuusky!" From Pip rips the silence wide open.

"Hey Pip" You say.
"How's it goi- god damn it. You leave my sight for like an hour..." She says. "Where in the gods' name did you find a child?"
"I'm not a child!" Maellen says. "I'm 16"

Pip sighs. "That... doesn't answer my question" She says.

>You didn't watch the end of our third match?

>Nevermind that, how much did you win?

>Nevermind that, what are we up against?

>Other

>>2079626
>You didn't watch the end of our third match?

>>2079626
>Nevermind that, what are we up against?

Sorta rude to talk winnings in front of the people we beat them for.

>>2079626
>She's fluffy though
>Nevermind that, how much did you win?

>>2079626
>You didn't watch the end of our third match?
> Also I beat up and got rid of another legionnaire.

>>2079626
>>Nevermind that, what are we up against?

>writing

"You didn't watch our third match?" You ask.
"Most of it, but y'know... sometimes nature calls" Pip says. "I guess this must be the gnome from the suit of armor then?"

You nod. "Her name is Maellen, and she's very soft" You say. "And this is Kou, from the southern isles"
"Nice to meetcha" Pip says. "Name's Pip. I'm the girl giving moral support and also spying on other teams"

"A good thing to have" Kou says.
"Indeed" You reply. "So? What does the competition look like?"
"Fierce" She says. "That guy from the last round wasn't the only legionnaire. He wasn't even the only one with a boon. Expect to face off against 3 more of them"

"That many?" You ask. "I wonder why they're all here"
"That's all talk for later" Pip says. "Come on, let's go grab the rabbit and eat dinner. Your new friends can come along too, if you want"

>Bring Maellen and Kou? (Y/N)

>Ask for details about the other boons

>Ask about the non-demon competition

>Ask how you did

>Other

>>2079672
>Bring Maellen and Kou? Y

>Ask for details about the other boons

>>2079672
>>Y
>Ask about the non-demon competition

>>2079672
>Yes
>Ask for details about the other boons
>Ask about the non-demon competition

>>2079672
Y
>>Ask for details about the other boons
>>Ask about the non-demon competition

>>2079672
>Y
>Ask about the non-demon competition

>writing

"That sounds good unless you have somewhere better to be" You say.
"I'd hoped to be celebrating my own victory tonight, but I suppose celebrating yours will do" He says.
"I'm game" Maellen says.

...

"Do I have to keep carrying you?" You ask.
"It's either you or the armor. Of the two you're much warmer" She says.

You shrug, and shift her into a better position for carrying as she calls out a chain from her suit of armor. Then you head off after Pip, and the armor follows.

"Has it ever occurred to you that you may be a little too friendly?" Cheska asks.
"I'd say I'm just friendly enough" You say. "After all, is this not how you make friends?"

"Not for most people, but if it works for you..." She says.

"And I might as well ask now. What other boons did you see?" You ask.
"There was a whip, a longsword, and a scimitar" Pip says. "Recognize those?"

"Depends on the wielders. There are a bunch of swords, but... the woman with the whip, big breasts, dark hair, obnoxious laugh?" Cheska asks.
"On the dot" Pip replies.

"That's good news. She's not much of a fighter. More of a 'sap your strength and then whip the shit out of you' kinda gal" Cheska says. "The scimitar was... lizard lady?"

"2 for 2" Pip replies.
"That'll be a fight. She was good even before she got the sword..." Cheska says. "What did the other swordsman look like?"

"It was a woman. A black wolf with-"
"With a scar on her arm?" Cheska asks. "That fuckin'..."

"Who is it?" You ask.

"You've met" Cheska says. "Carthac's pet bitch... and it looks like someone finally threw her a bone"

>1/2

>>2079718
>pet bitch
Hon

You talk about the other fighters as you head to the market. Kou has some good insights on how to beat certain styles... Maellen mostly just lets herself get carried and enjoys getting her head pet.

When you reach Kolai's stall, you find Hella sitting in a chair behind it looking half-dead from exhaustion.

"Hello" You say.

Hella perks up completely, making it hard to believe that she'd ever looked exhausted. "Welcome to the shop! What can I get f- oh thank the gods it's you..." She says, as she sighs in relief, and then collapses back into her chair.

"Hard day?" You ask.
"Exhausting" She says. "But I guess I shouldn't talk about that to someone who's been fighting all day"
"It wasn't so bad, we had a couple tough opponents but otherwise it was all sitting around" You say.
"Did you win?" She asks
"Yep" You reply.

Hella stands up and stretches out. "That's wonderfu-" She says, suddenly realizing that you have 2 extra people and a suit of armor with you.

"Who are they?" She asks.
"Our tough opponents" You say.

>Ask where Kolai went

>You've gotta feel this girl's hair

>Ask if she saw anyone unusual

>Ask where Coral is

>Other

>>2079742
>>You've gotta feel this girl's hair

>>2079742
>>Ask if she saw anyone unusual
>>Ask where Coral is

>>2079742
>>Ask if she saw anyone unusual
>>Ask where Coral is

>>2079742
>Ask if she saw anyone unusual
>Ask where Coral is

>writing

"This one's got really soft hair, you're gotta feel it" You say, as you hold Maellen out to Hella.

Hella tentatively reaches out and strokes Maellen's hair. "Oh my... how do you get it so soft?" She asks.
"It's a secret" Maellen replies.

"See anyone unusual today?" You ask.
"I saw lots of unusual people... at least they weren't what I was used to" She says. "Nobody dangerous though, or I would have sent Coral right over"

You tilt your head. "Where is Coral anyway?" You ask.

...

Hella's face suddenly turns bright red, as something underneath her shirt rustles around. After a few seconds, Coral pops out from under her collar and waves.

"D-d-when did you get in there?" Hella asks.

Coral smiles and makes some gestures.

"Wh-what's she saying?" Hella asks.
"Not sure... but I think she was just looking for the warmest place" You say.
"And that's down my shirt?" Hella asks.
"Apparently" You say.

Hella sighs, pulling Coral out of her shirt and brushing herself off. "Well, at least my work's almost done. Once Kolai gets back she said I could go home" She says.

>Tell her about your matches

>Ask what's for dinner tonight

>Ask what made her so exhausted

>Other

>>2079787
>Ask what's for dinner tonight

>>2079787
>>Tell her about your matches

>>Ask what made her so exhausted

>>2079787
>>Go home and strategize. See if we can figure out if the demons have any plans besides winning the tournament.

>>2079791
>Tell her about your matches

>>2079787
C'mon, she's clearly tired already, and we're getting a big payout soon! May as well go out for something.

>writing

"What's got you so tired?" You ask.
"So many customers..." She says. "Back at the guild I'd only have to deal with paperwork and the occasional job order... here they never stop coming"

"Well... maybe I won't make you cook tonight" You say. "Hey Pip, how much did you win today?"

"So much" She says. "I won quite a bit off you guys, and a little more on other bets"
"Cool... is it enough that we can all eat out tonight?" You ask.

"It sure is" Pip says. "So long as it's not big or fancy"
"Cool" You say.

"Y-you don't really have to..." Hella says.
"I don't, but I am anyway" You say.

Hella sighs. "Thanks..." She says.

"So is she your girlfriend?" Maellen asks.
"No" You reply.
"Aww, must you be so cold to me darling?" Hella asks, as she hugs your arm with a mischievous smile on her face.

...

"So she is your girlfriend?" Maellen asks.
"She's not my girlfriend" You reply.

Hella giggles and steps back, as Kolai returns with... "Freya?" You ask.
"You" Freya says.

"You've met?" Kolai asks.
"You've met?" Freya asks as well.

...

"Can we work this out over supper?" You ask.
"Sounds good to me" Pip says, as she turns to Kolai. "Know any good places to eat around here?"

That's all for tonight!

Next proper run will be next Thursday. I'll put up some posts in between now and then if I get the time.

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

>>2079826
Thanks for running! I'm excited for the tournament to continue.

Sounds like we're going to be cleaning up quite a few of the stronger Legionaries here

>>2079823
>Freya
That name, i can't put a face to it... was that the 3-tailed Cat Girl who's apart of Lance's Group? the one who gave us our first Hat and Robe?

>>2079842
That's Layla

>>2079842
Freya is the woman who was paired with the Legionnaire.

It's pleasantly surprising how calm everyone is when discussing waifus in this quest. If I remember correctly the last two quests had their fair share of waifu shitstorms.

Monster girls truly are a gift.

>>2086451
We are gentlemen, not savages.

>>2086451
>>2086451
Every girl is best girl.
I have my favourite, but i can't say i would be disappointed with any of the ladies Yuu has met.

>>2086628
Smiley does have a talent for making likable characters. I have a few I'd like to win and some I'd be disappointed with winning, but I can't say there's anyone who would make me really upset.

You awaken the next morning and sit up. Then you regret sitting up as your head feels like it's going to burst out of your skull.

You clutch your temples as your eyes focus. You're in your room... you think. As far as you remember the rooms in this apartment look the same... but there's no one in the bed with you, so it's most likely yours.

"Rise and shine, Yuuster!" Pip exclaims as she bursts in, and struts across the room to whip open the curtains. The noise and the sudden change in lighting only make the pain worse... "Oooooo, did someone drink too much?"

"Mwuh?" You ask.
"Last night?" Pip asks. "We went to the tavern to grab dinner and celebrate the win, and you decided to try ale"

...

Oh yeah...

"I don't remember actually coming home..." You say.
"Thaaaaat happens..." Pip says. "Shake it off and get dressed, champ. I'll grab you some water"

"I'm not sure I can shake this off..." You say.
"Well... that's what happens when you drink too much ale" Pip says.
"Why would you let me drink that much?" You ask.
"I tried to stop you, but you assured me you were fine" She says. "Probably because you'd already had too much. We'll get some water in you and you'll feel better in no time"

You take a breath and start inching toward the edge of the bed. Pip is already back by the time you're standing, and she hands you a glass of water. "Drink up, get dressed. Go! Go! Go!" She says.

"Not so loud..." You say.
"Sorry bud, I don't really do gentle wake up calls" Pip says. "If you want gentle, I could always send the rabbit in"

>... is that an option?

>I'm good

>Other

Post up for the night. Voting ends at 6pm PST tomorrow.

>>2091288
>I'm good

>>2091288
>>I'm good

>>2091288
>I'm good

>>2091288
>>... is that an option?

>>2091288
>I'm good

>>2091288
>>... is that an option?

>>2091288
>>I'm good

>>2091288
>Chain-flare self to wall next to door, groan as we're dragged out of bed

>>2091288
>... is that an option?

>>2091288
>... is that an option?

>>2091288
>>... is that an option?

>>2091288
>>I'm good

>>2091507
Supporting this. Hangover Yuu best Yuu.

>>2091288
>>I'm good

>>2091507
this, haha

>>2091288
>>I'm good

"... is that an option?" You ask.
"Nope. Lala's busy making breakfast, and I'm hungry" Pip says. "I'll let her know you asked for her though. Should put a spring in her step"

You tilt your head.

"Nevermind. Wake up. Drink up. Dress up" Pip says. "I'll be just outside if you need me"
"O... kay" You say.

Pip gives you a cheeky salute then turns on a heel and leaves the room, closing the door behind her.

You take a breath, trying to stifle the pain in your head. You'd like nothing more than to crawl back into bed right now... but you still have to fight in the tournament today. And to do that you must dress and eat.

So you knock back the water Pip gave you and locate a fresh pair of pants. After making sure they aren't on backward, you throw on a shirt and head into the main room.

"That was quick" Pip says. "Your shirt's inside out, but at least you're up"

You look down, and sure enough Pip is right. You dip back into your room to put your shirt on right, then come back out.

"Now I'm good" You say.
"Awesome. Now for the other one..." Pip says as she heads off.

>The other one?

>Go see what's for breakfast

>Go sit down for a minute

>Other

>>2094656
>Did me and Cheska get into a drinking competition or something?

>>2094656
Oh also, happy Thanksgiving, Smiley. And happy thanksgiving to everyone else here too

>>2094656
>>Go see what's for breakfast

>>2094656
>The other one?
>Go see what's for breakfast

>writing

>>2094663
In leaf-land Thanksgiving is on October 14th, but thanks anyway and happy thanksgiving to you as well!

"The... other one?" You ask, but Pip is already gone.

She probably meant Cheska, as you don't see her around. The only other person here is Hella, who is making breakfast with Coral's help.

"Now, grab me... the sugar" Hella says.

Coral salutesand zips into te cupboard, emerging with a container of white stuff.

"Coral that's the salt, I need the sugar" Hella says.

Coral huffs.

"If you don't believe me then you can always taste it" Hella says.

Coral does just that, grabbing a handful of salt and tossing it into her mouth. She appears to regret this almost immediately, spitting the salt out and coughing.

Hella giggles. "See? I told you. Now wash your mouth out and get me the sugar" Hella says.

Coral drifts off to the sink, and you figure now is a good time to approach.

"Having fun?" You ask.

Hella turns to you and smiles, giving you a quick hug before going back to work. "Coral makes an adorable helper" She says. "She's... not incredibly helpful, but she tries so hard"
"She is a good sprite" You say.

"How is your head?" She asks.
"Hurting" You say.
"Drink more water" She says. "Breakfast will be done soon, and I'll have a cup of coffee for you as soon as Coral gets me the sugar"

...

>Get the sugar for her

>Ask what happened last night

>Ask if she was drinking too

>Other

>>2094725
>>Ask if she was drinking too

>>2094725
>Ask if she was drinking too

>writing

"Were you drinking last night as well?" You ask.
"I had some ale... but it became pretty clear that no one else was going to remain sober and someone had to keep everyone in line" Hella says.

"That didn't go well, did it?" You ask.
"You guys wouldn't listen to me" She says, as she puffs out her cheeks. "I tried to get you to stop drinking..."

"Yeah, sorry..." You say
"Don't worry about it. It wasn't all bad..." She says, blushing slightly as she goes back to making breakfast.

"Well, if everyone was trying to stop me, I guess I have nobody to blame but myself for how my head feels right now" You say.
"Yourself and Cheska" She says. "She egged you on quite a bit..."

"Did she now?" You ask.

...

>I wonder if Pip needs help getting her up...

>Hang on, what wasn't all bad?

>Ask if she needs another helper

>Other

>>2094748
>>Hang on, what wasn't all bad?

>>2094748
>Hang on, what wasn't all bad?

>writing

"I might have t- wait. What about it wasn't all that bad?" You ask.
"N-nothing" She says. "L-look! Coral's done washing her mouth out! Haha- hahaha"

You lean in close to examine her face, and she visibly starts to buckle under the pressure.

"Y-you may have said a few things..." She says.

You frown, and Hella starts waving her arms around. "N-nothing bad!" She says.
"So what did I say?" You ask.

"J-just that I was p-pretty... and that you liked how..." She trails off, speaking so quietly that you actually can't hear her.
"That I liked how...?" You ask.
"H-how nice and soft I am..." She says.

You tilt your head. "And that was enough to make up for having to babysit me as I drank?" You ask.
"I-I don't get many compliments..." She says, as she tugs at a lock of her hair. "It w-was nice to hear... even if it was the ale talking..."

>Well if you're that easy to please...

>You have strange priorities

>Other

>>2094782
>I'll have to tell you more often then

>>2094782
>>Well if you're that easy to please...
>>I like all fluffy girls even when sober.

>>2094782
Let’s be Yuu and say
>you really are cute and soft
Then
>>I wonder if Pip needs help getting Cheska up...