>>23346869

You find yourself in a snowy field. To their credit, Hell has given you a nice warm black cloak to keep you warm, however you trusty black silk bikini is still underneath. You also have some nice pointy black boots, and they even gave you some gold rings for your horns to try and make you look more high-ranking. Unfortunately though, they’ve sent along another Demon. Standing next to you is Surt, a tall, muscular, bald red-skinned warrior Demon. He wears little armour despite the cold, and carries a large obsidian sword on his back. He possesses two gnarled horns on his head, beady golden eyes, and a square chin you could probably crack nuts with. He seems to be about as animated as a rock face and twice as stubborn.

You’ve been given a stronger magical booster this mission, so you can stay in the world indefinitely, however once your mission is complete you’ll be returned to Hell immediately. You still only have six shots of magic though, apart from your trusty Flame Whip weapon.

Your spell options are:

>Seduce: reduces a human to your willing puppet
>Revive: return to life after being killed after a few moments, automatic when you are killed
>Taint: turns a human bearing the mark of a Demonseed into a Demon, unpredictable
>Sulfur Cloud: large, nauseating yellow smog that can aid you in escaping once spotted
>Combust: causes the target human to spontaneously catch fire and turn into a blazing inferno, requires concentration and is not instantaneous
>Skull Bomb: A grinning, skull-shaped smoking grenade that can fill the air with a blast of shrapnel

You look around the snowy wasteland. You can see the mountains in the distance. In front of you is a small gorge that leads directly towards the mountains. Will you talk to Surt or get started?

I vote we talk to Surt.

>>23347240

You decide to see if Surt wants to discuss anything. The Warrior seems to be waiting for you to make a movement, as if he was some sort of bodyguard.

"So Surt, my friend, are you ready for this mission?"
He just glares at you.
"I am always prepared."

Cold.

"Do you know anything about this double agent we're supposed to be looking for?"
"No."
"...alright. Shall we be on our way then?"

Surt just stomps off through the snow, without a word. You hate him already.


The pair of you walk through the icy drifts, and you can see that it's still early in the morning. You've rarely seen or felt sunlight before but you're still clearly aware of it even in this cloud, overcast sky. There are several gnarled, twisted trees about, but no animal life is to be seen.

"You're making too much noise," says Surt, "We are on a mission of high importance that relies on us getting to where we need to be. Time is mana." You snort.
"Look, I'm a Succubus. I don't do commando tactics, and besides, aren't the humans supposed to be friendly to us this time?"
"This entire realm is enemy territory."


Finally, you arrive at the snowy gorge. It's open at the top and nicely-spaced for walking through, however you notice that the sides consist of many darkened areas and could probably hide an ambush.

Surt wants to walk right down the middle. Should you follow along in the shadows or just walk next to Surt?

>>23347501

We should probably hang back, Surt is a damage sponge so let him spring any traps.

>>23347501

Wow, this guy is a tool. Let's let him walk ahead, he can get cut down.

>>23347756
>>23347698

You decide to let the Warrior go on ahead. He's pretty strong, so better you than him.

Surt nods and starts to walk through the snowy passage. Despite the conditions his mighty red legs tromp through with little effort. You guess he must be an experienced warrior to be able to deal with this so easily.
Unfortunately, you can't say the same for yourself, as the icy, sleet covering of the rocks on the sides of the gorge mean you have a lot of awkward slippery moments and results in a few bruises from pointy outcroppings.

As you struggle, you pass the halfway point. A sensation tells you to look behind you, and you see that you and Surt passed a small wooden door. It has several tribal markings on it, and you guess that there's a group of locals living there. If you had made some noise they might have attacked.


Finally, you make it out of the gorge. The sky has cleared a little, and the sunbeams striking your face are a strange, new sensation. It's quite pleasant. Surt doesn't seem amused, he just glares at you.. "We need to keep moving." What a wet blanket.

As you move out from the ditch the gorge opened out into, you hear the throaty growl on the wind of a native animal. Surt freezes, and slowly pulls his head up to look over the side of the snowy ridge. You follow.

Two young men, wearing the gold and silver tabards of the Tarastan Army, carry a basket of fruit on their backs. They are frozen in fear of a large Dire Bear that has them cornered. "Foragers." you say and Surt nods. He points north of the trapped men towards a collection of smoke plumes. "That must be their base."

You think for a moment. You could save these men, or let them get eaten. What should you do?

Is this that old quest that ran a long time ago? I thought we were going to spend the next bit in hell?

>>23347969

Yes, it's me again. Took me a while to come up with a new thingy, but I think I've got the hang of it now. As to Hell, that's after this mission.

>>23347943

Well, we're supposed to put on a good show for these people as allies, at least until we get what we want. So let's help them out.

>>23348002
Welcome back OP

>>23348211

Thanks! Hello to you too.

>>23348183
Seconded, they'll probably be useful getting wherever we're going

>>23348183
>>23348382


You pull yourself up, and Surt follows you. "Let's help out our allies."

The bear growls and grunts at the men, who look to be barely older than teenagers. The bear is a gigantic thing, with matted white and brown fur and several prominent scars. It's a beast.

Striding down the snowdrift, you make no attempt to conceal yourself, and after a few paces both of the men notice you. You see their youthful faces take in your cloaked, horned figure, and in their eyes you see the twinkle of fear and possibility. How cute. The bear notices you too, turning its massive ursine head to face towards the new threat you represent. Surt walks alongside you, and with a casual gesture unsheathes his massive obsidian blade. Well, if he insists.

You point at the bear and make a thumbs-down sign with your hands. Suddenly there's a rush as Surt plows through the snow like a hurricane, and as the bear cries out in surprise and alarm the jagged, evil-looking sword slams right into the wild animal's skull, obliterating its entire cranial cavity. The doomed body shakes wildly for a few minutes before collapsing with a thud. The blood pools on the snow, dying it red as Surt wipes his blade clean on the bear's fur before sheathing it again. As he stands watch, you approach the two frightened young men.

What do you say?

>>23348394

Something like "Greetings, I am here to see your great Emperor, as he has summoned our aid". How does that sound?

>>23348594

We should also try charming them, I think

>>23348708
If by charming you mean seduce, I have to disagree. Too early to expended a spell

>>23348594
>>23348708
>>23348845


You are about to lace your words with a little bit of liquid seduction, but notice two small, crude charms hanging from the men's necks. The small metal medallions are carved with surprisingly well-done runes, that will react to illusion or mind-influencing magic. Not bad, Emperor.

Instead, you simply smile and try to be pleasant.

"Greetings! I am a humble emissary here to see the great Emperoror Tarasta, for he has called upon my services. Could you be so kind as to lead me to your base of operations?"

The two men blink and look at each other. One steps forward.
"O-Of course, my lady, we thank you for saving us." His eyes dart another look at your horns but he doesn't mention them. "If you could follow us we will take you to our camp." The other man licks his lips and waves you along.

You and Surt walk behind the men, noticing that they are keeping some distance between you. The older of the pair keeps fiddling with the amulet around his neck, but the younger one constantly sneaks glances back. You smile, but Surt is unimpressed.

"You have a habit of picking up strays, it seems."
"Strays?"
"You keep bringing things back with you, like that puppetmaster, or the smelly giant orange thing."
"You know about Gepette? Well she can be a bit of a handful, I suppose. Though you're probably just jealous you weren't able to afford Satiety." Back in Hell, you had sold the massive monster Demon to one of Surt's rival clans to be used as a siege engine, and obviously Surt didn't appreciate it.
"Don't bring any more back with you this time please. The Hellplains have enough undisciplined monsters." You smile.
"No promises~"

>>23349131
The huge flags and banners of the Tarastan Army camp stick out above the base, which was a hive of activity. At least thirty tents dotted the landscape, with soldiers rushing to and fro, some marching, others practicing bowmanship or sharpening weapons. There were also several groups of overall-wearing men with oil-stained caps and carrying rifles, whom you realized were the Engineers' Guild. On the other side of the camp was a large pointy tent where several robed men and women could be seen, indentifying it as the Mage's Guild. Finally, a large, elaborate wood-and-fabric structure marked with the Tarastan Lion-head crest stood in the middle, and you knew that was the Emperor's domain.

As you enter, a guard captain runs over, sending the two foragers off with a sharp gesture. Surt tenses as more men arrives, most of them staring at their two outlandish guests. The captain pulls off his silver helm, revealing a dark, scarred face.

"I am Lirrec, captain of the Imperial Guards. I will take you to the Emperor. Don't try anything." He doesn't seem too friendly.

You and Surt follow the veteran soldier through the myriad tents. Workers and soldiers alike stop and stare, Mages gape in fascination, Engineers drop their guns and rub their eyes. You feel like a celebrity, but the tense aura of distrust, suspicion and hatred is palpable.

>>23349144

You are shown into the makeshift hall. The light inside is worse and your eyes take a moment to adjust. Seated ahead of you, standing to his feet, is the golden-armored Emperor himself, Aren Tarasta III. The tall, muscular yet astonishingly handsome young man posesses beautiful golden hair and wears a silver circlet. He wears the Lion Armour of Tarasta, and carries the famed blade Sunfury. To his left sits Lord Sternstone of the Sternstone Dwarves, a short, stout barrel of a man with a long grey beard and a horned helmet. Further to the left you see three Mages, a tall, elegant woman (who is desperately trying to hide her aging skin with magic), a charming older man with a wry smile, and a young, effeminate boy dressed in oversized robes with a pained smile. To the right of the Emperor stands a white-armoured woman with a golden crown, and a loathful expression aimed at you. Further to the right is an old man with a long grey beard and a goggled hat.


How shall you introduce yourself?

>>23349154

Oh wow, an audience. Let's turn on the charm and suck up majorly. I bet that armored woman is going to be trouble.

>>23349154

"Greetings, fair lord of the Human Lands! I am Revulvael, an emissary from the Demon Lands, and I come to you to fulfill our agreement from ages past. I bring myself and Surt, a noble warrior, to your service."

Too cheesy?

>>23349436
>>23349567

You put on your best business smile, and step forward. The eyes of the humans bore into you. Before any of them can say a word, you bow in an exaggerated manner.

"Greetings, fair lord of the great Tarasta Empire. I am Revulvael, a humble representative of Hell. Myself and Surt, a noble warrior, are at your service." You keep your eyes lowered. A hearty laugh resounds through the room.

"Ah, rise, rise my friend, welcome to my base of operations!" Emperor Tarasta grins and gestures for you to stand, and you do so. He has a beaming face, and happily steps down from his raised seating to walk over to you. Before you can react, the human lord takes your hand and kisses it. "You are most welcome here, my dear lady! I am Emperor Tarasta III, and let me introduce my retinue." He turns and points out each individual. "The Mages Guildmaster Vetello, his beautiful wife and accomplished Sorceress Starana, and their young protege Callukis." The three Mages nod. "My dear friend and mighty Dwarven Lord, Lord Sternstone." The dwarf raps his fist against his chestplate. "My dear sister, Milia Terasta, Princess of the Empire." The platinum-haired woman shoots you another venomous look. "And finally my old mentor, Professor Bondsman, of the Engineering Guild." The old man smiles. The Emperor takes you by the shoulder and brings you over to the group, Surt following along behind.

"I am honored to meet all of you", you say, but the atmosphere seems tense. The Emperor seems to notice this and claps his hands.
"Let us move into the connecting chamber for lunch so I can explain a few things."

The group moves through a fabric arc into an open room with a large wooden dining table. The Emperor sits at the head, and the group take their places at the table, though there are many empty seats. Who should you sit next to?

>>23349898

Well, we need to find the informant. I'm guessing the mages will be the most likely to be in contact with demons, so let's sit next to them.

>>23349898

I bet the Mages Guild know something, sit next to them

>>23350258
>>23350122

You guess that the Mages would be the most likely to be the double agent that you are looking for, so while Surt stands near the door you smoothly sit yourself next to Callukis. The young boy recoils slightly, his black bob haircut shifting as does his white, oversized robes. He seems uncomfortable, but you can't- wait. A soft magical scent reaches your nose. This young man has a Demonseed. Hm.

Putting aside that for now, you realize that if these two senior mages have been in contact with other Demons, then they would have found out above Callukis' potential by now. Perhaps they aren't the ones you're looking for?

The servants bring in a rather small, yet protein-rich meal of salted meats, vegetables and sauce from the depths of the Southlands, and your host comments that he doesn't eat too lavishly so his troops won't starve. Honorable. As you reach for the silverware and stab a fork into your steak, you realize that everyone at the table is staring at you. Putting the hunk of meat into your mouth and chewing it daintily, you bat your long eyelashes back and forth along the table.

>>23350687
"I must admit, I am surprised that one of your kind would actually come," says Vertello, his short black moustache wrinkling along with his lips. The middle-aged Mage lifts up his cup of wine, and points it towards the Emperor. "My lord, I believe I owe you some gold." The Emperor smiles, and returns the gesture with his own cup. "Many many years ago, a member of my family saved a young Demon's life, and Hell has seen fit to give us something in return. The opening of the Mountain passage is very important for my Empire, and if these Demons can help us do that I would be eternally grateful." You're about to nod in response when the Princess clicks her teeth.
"You shouldn't use language like that around these things, brother," she says, her voice a mixture of arrogance and hate. "Demons are tricky, meddlesome beings who love to enslave humans. You give this abomination an inch and she'll take a mile." The princess is younger than her brother but she has an incredibly strong will it seems, and her little outburst has turned the group's atmosphere back into an aura of distrust. Next to you, Callukis shies away, and the Dwarf lord just stares at you. It seems as if you'll need to make a stand of some sort.

You cough in a fake manner, and clasp your hands together. Eshewing the business smile, you begin by bowing your head to each member of the table. Then, with a lick of your cherry-red lips, you start to talk.

>>23350706
"Well, first of all, I am not here to be duplicitous or wreak havoc. I am here because my masters wanted someone dependable and sensible to deliver a service that was owed. We Demons may be fearsome creatures," you says as you point a thumb at Surt in the corner, "But we do honour our pacts. We don't have any holdings in the Tarasta Empire and as such my superiors found it surprising that there is something Demonic in nature here. Our interest is entirely to satisfy our curiosities, nothing more. Well, we also need to repay our debt, and this fulfils two of our government's interests in one go." You sigh.
"I know that none of you trust myself or my compatriot, Surt, but we are professionals and intend to conduct ourself in an impeccable manner." At this, Vertello chuckles.
"Impeccable, huh? Strange words for a magical being from the Pit. I have dealt with your kind before, pathetic creatures who squabbled over the tiniest magical essences. What separates you from them? You Succubi are all the same, you may look pretty but on the inside you're a backstabbing greedy little animal." He sips his wine.

How should you reply?

>>23350720
Most demons who live long enough learn that fighting over every scrap of power and backstabbing each other for the slightest benefit are not conducive to long term survival. And the myriad punishments my superiors have promised me if fail to honor this debt.

>>23350720

"If I went and grabbed a street urchin off of a crowded street corner, would that represent all of humanity?"

>>23350991
>>23351028

"And if I were to take a pickpocket off of a streetcorner, would that represent all humanity?" The Mage falls silent. You continue. "I am a veteran and I have lived for hundreds of years. We Demons know the importance of cohesion and cooperation. Hell is not a friendly place, without our order we would have fallen long ago. I have a mission here and my masters wish it to be fulfilled. And I am not going to disappoint them."

You let that hang in the air. The Emperor speaks up.

"My dear Demon, I understand that my retinue may cause you some duress, however please understand that they aren't as forward-thinking as I am." He sighs and empties his wine. "You see, I have done many things that have caused shockwaves and concern among many parties. My quest to build roads, hospitals, institute education, and more radical proposals like the restructuring of the army have raised quite a few eyebrows." He gives you a tired smile. "But I do understand that tradition and history should be respected. I'd like to ask you to not rile my friends up if you are able."
"Speak for yourself, boy!" snorts the Dwarf Lord. He grins at you. "This creature has only her duty in mind and is here to fulfil her obligation. Whatever her origins, I respect her professional clout." You nod your gratitude to the Dwarf. Perhaps he is the mole?

After finishing the meal, the guests move out to the rear of the tent, where an open mustering area is set up. Several of the Engineers and Mages are already there along with Lirrec and the Imperial Guard. You sit down on the steps and look out at the group. Surt crouches next to you.
"We should disembark already."
"Patience, we're working for the Human Emperor remember? It might be good to take the time and talk to some of these individuals."

Who will you approach?

>>23351216
Let us approach the Dwarf, even if he's not the mole he seems friendly and could be convinced to tell us more about the others so we can tailor our approach properly.

>>23351284

You decide to talk to Lord Sternstone. Standing on your lithe legs and pulling the fabric of your bikini out of your buttcrack, you walk tenderly over the smooth stone towards the three Dwarves. The two guards are sharpening their axes, and Sternstone is polishing a shield. You step forwards and fake interest, making an "aaah" sound at the shiny metal disc. The Dwarven Lord grunts in greeting.

"They don't seem to like me very much," you say in an innocent manner.
"Can you blame them? Human legends tell of your kinds' dangerous nature."
You nod, and sit down on a rock again. "True. Though it makes my job difficult. I was wondering if you could tell me-"
"That is a fine blade." Surt was crouching next to you, his eyes examining the axe of the Dwarven Lord. "You must have taken great pains to forge this."
"Aye. I crafted it on the great Forge of Lo Charkkain for days on end. Also," says the bemused Dwarf, "I didn't know you could talk."
"Surt isn't a very talkative fellow," you interject.
"I like him already. So, you want to know about the humans, then?" You're surprised he could guess.

>>23351498

"Well, the Emperor is a brave young pup who chased out anyone who didn't agree with him. He has many noblemen enemies but the people love him, and he's kind but firm with his men so they will die for him if needed. His sister, well, take a look at her." You turn and look at the white-armored girl standing behind the Emperor.
"She's rushed out here to follow her brother but she's not even used to wearing armor. She's had some training but it's a risk to bring her. Too overconfident and too headstrong, a common fault for humans." You can see that yourself. The girl's armour has a fabric dress built into it and she's constantly readjusting it.

"As to the Mages," the Dwarf continues, "I don't trust them. Magic is always tricky and frankly Vertello's smile makes me uncomfortable. The boy, though, he seems nice but looks tired all the time." You nod.
"Lastly there's Professor Bondsman. He's an old friend of mine, and we helped his forebears set up the first Engineers Guild. They may be a bit more explosive than our crafters but they're decent folk."

Do you want to talk to anyone else?

>>23351508
Hmm, the sister might actually be the agent. If she rushed to go follow her brother that could be because she was recently informed about this thing and had to rush to follow him. I'm not sure, but it's possible. And if she's not the agent she's likely to be a pain in our ass for this one, so getting to know her a bit better would be good.

So go over to her, talk to her, say that we think we got off on the wrong foot and reintroduce ourself, compliment her fashion, be polite, girly, and complementary.

>>23351582

You make your way over to Milia, who sees you coming from a mile away. The soldiers in your path recoil, and Lirrec averts his eyes. Milia just glares daggers at you, her hatred palpable.

"My lady Princess, perhaps we got off on the wrong foot earlier? I am-"
"A disgusting demon, I know." Jesus, what a bitch.
"I was wondering if we could discuss this venture and-"
"No discussion. Keep away from my brother and I, abomination." Her hazel eyes narrow, and you feel he fury wafting through the air, along with...something else. Sniff. Yes, you're sure. She has a Demonseed inside her. Interesting!

However, you aren't going to do anything to the Emperor's sister just yet, so you calmly back off. The Princess returns to her preparations, awkwardly pulling a blade out of her scabbard to examine it. She's actually rather clumsy, it's quite cute.

You return to Surt. "I haven't been able to detect our informant" you whisper. Surt shrugs. "They will make themselves known." You nod as the Emperor and his men form up.

"My companions, we set off for the Stormstone mountain's passage!"

>>23351730
You're tired, your feet are damp in their boots, and you're cold. The short march to the entrance consists of an uphill slog, and you're getting sick of traipsing up the mountain already. Around you, the Mages use magic to walk themselves over the snow, except for poor Callukis who trails along behind. The Engineers walk of flat, broad snowshoes, and the Dwarves are almost digging their way through the icy ground. The Emperor walks like a hero, striding alongside his warriors with Milia trailing behind. She trips and falls forwards, sliding back down the mountainside. You stop her and help her up.
"Are you alright?"
She slaps your hands away.
"Don't touch me, soul-sucking filth!"
"Hey hey," says Emperor Tarasta, turning around, "Don't be so aggressive Milia." The Princess winces as if she was a child being scolded. "That reminds me, Demon, do you actually consume souls or is that an old wives' tale?"

You're silent. Do you lie, or give them a proper explanation of how Hell works?

>>23351732
How exactly are souls used in hell?

We'll probably want to alter the truth, but I'd like to know exactly what details to alter to make it more palatable but not an obvious lie.

>>23351746

Tainted souls of evil humans are used to power massive Magitech generators that help Hell's cities float far above the wasteland surface. They're collected once in a blue moon and only from the darkest of hearts.

>>23351774
Okay, good to know, that's acceptable.

>>23351732
Proper explanation.

"Technically they are, though the old wives' tales about it are greatly exaggerated in every respect. Honestly you wouldn't want the souls that are utilized to stick around anywhere. It's more of a public service than anything else.

Only those of the blackest hearts who committed the vilest deeds are consumed, it's a punishment for those who have committed crimes so great that no other act can make up for it. Any who would be consumed deserve it many times over and are bound to come knocking on Hell's door eventually. And this punishment is rarely meted out, it is not a common thing in the least."

>>23351859
Might be worth mentioning that a large portion of souls collected from this group belong to those that have broken demonic contracts...

>>23351944
That's a good thing to add. Forgot that bit, put in that those who are consumed generally do it to themselves.

>>23351859
>>23351944


You're silent for a moment, but decide to explain it a bit.

"Technically they are, though the old wives' tales about it are greatly exaggerated in every respect. Honestly you wouldn't want the souls that are utilized to stick around anywhere. It's more of a public service than anything else. Only those of the blackest hearts who committed the vilest deeds are consumed, it's a punishment for those who have committed crimes so great that no other act can make up for it. Any who would be consumed deserve it many times over and are bound to come knocking on Hell's door eventually. And this punishment is rarely meted out, it is not a common thing in the least."

You let that hang in the air. The Mages seemed not to notice, but you left out the real reason, that hell uses Souls as a power source, in order to stop them from finding out any big secrets to magic. The Dwarves don't seem to care, but Milia seems furious.
"So what gives you the right to judge? You monsters aren't even human!" She's about to say more but her brother takes her by the shoulder. "That's enough Milia. Thank you for explaining, Demon lady." You bow.


Finally, you arrive at the door to the Underground. It is a massive, stone slab made from a material you don't recognize, chalky-white yet solid and imposing. The door is covered with a massive circular inscription that features several spell circle carvings of an ancient type. Surt walks up and looks them over.
"I can open this, but it will take time." The Emperor nods, and Surt's black nails glow bright red as he begins injecting Demon magic into the locks. You stretch, and turn to the rest of the group when suddenly a battle-cry resounds. Coming over the sides of the mountain are hundreds of filthy, animalfur-wearing humans carrying axes, spears and clubs. These are the Wildmen of Stormstone, you recall, and they mean business.

Do you engage them in battle or let them thin the Empire's ranks a bit?

>>23351956
Whatever we do, Protect the Emperor!

>>23351956
Help a bit, don't burn any spell slots of course, but help some. Do it more for appearances than anything else, we want it to definitely look like we're helping even if we let their ranks thin some, prioritize keeping ourselves safe as well as keeping any Demonseed holders safe, and the Emperor, he's useful.

>>23351956
For some reason I'm worried that surt is opening a demonic prison...wonder what kind of devil, or angel, might be inside.

Put ourselves in the best position to save the demon seeders. If we turn one the angels might turn the other though?

>>23351982
>>23351976
>>23352051


Well, you think, this will be fun. The Emperor's soldiers form ranks, shields and spears at the ready, and the Dwarves bring their Axes up in a triangle formation. The Mages step back, away from the rabble, and stand next to the Emperor, who draws his sword. Sunfury glistens with irridescent energy, and the Wildmen stop in their tracks. It's a standoff for a few moments, then one of the barbarians throws a bolas at a soldier and brings him down. Suddenly, both sides fly at each other!

As the spears skewer and the clubs bash brains, you run forwards, startling everyone. Detaching your cape, you leap into the air, and your wings and tail are revealed as your lithe, pale, creamy-smooth skin breathes in the cold air. You grin and summon your blazing flame whip, a tendril of burning energy. With a swing you slash it out at a Wildman's head, cutting it clean off and sending his body flying into another man. Laughing with glee you land gracefully and spin the whip around to sear the flesh of two more barbarians, before cracking it like a beast tamer to scare the other Wildmen off with sparks and flashes.

You have to admit, this really is a good way to work off tension. Around you, Imperial Guardsmen fight on with blind devotion, and you take the opportunity to pick and choose your targets. You dispatch foes in a most visible manner, deliberately trying to show everyone how helpful you are. Then, while you're not looking you take the opportunity to push Guardsmen into harms' way, successfully lowering the numbers of humans on both sides.

>>23352193

Finally the Wildmen rout, and you pull your cloak back over your gold-rimmed bikini and return to the group. All in all there are about fourteen soldiers remaining along with the rest of the group.
"You fight well!" says the Emperor as he wipes his blade clean, and you notice with amusement that Milia was untouched by the slaughter. She blushes when she sees you smiling at her and turns away. Meanwhile Callukis is sprawled out on the floor, panting heavily. There's something odd about that kid. And not just the Demonseed. Starana walks over to him and rather aggressively pulls him up out of the snow with a sudden jerking move. Abuse...?

"I have opened the Gate."
Your companions all turn to look at Surt, who moves away from the ancient doorway as it rumbles open. The smell of stale, yet slightly moist air greets you, and dim light emanates from somewhere within.

Without further ado, the group continues into the passageway. You walk down ancient steps of incredibly precise carving, past several stone pillars, and reach an open room. You can see glowing crystals far above, illuminating a massive chamber that is some sort of great hall. The Dwarves marvel, saying that not even their cities can match this size. The Hall is full of giant pillars and flat plains, and you notice that many of the pillars seem to have hollow parts as if something was mounted within them long ago. As of now though, it seems abandoned.

The groups all spread out under one of the lights, and Surt goes to examine a panel mounted on a stone platform.

Who will you go talk to?

>>23352203
Can we talk with Callukis? I'd want t talk to Milia too, but I don't think she would return the favor.

>>23352203
Let's see, Milia might be a lesbian, and has a Demonseed, Gepette might end up with a playmate.

Let's visit the Mages, especially Callukis, we like cute kids, he's a cute kid, and he's got a Demonseed. Maybe see if we can play the protective angle and get him to confide in us, kid like that might know something secrets.

>>23352265
Are you implying that she doesn't hate demons, but is just pretending to as an excuse to be tsundere?

>>23352203
Im actually kind of curious as to what this place is. Do we recognize the inscriptions and or magic at work or what?

Also talk to the engineer, i have a feeling.

>>23352325
She probably hates them, but she can't help but notice that we're hot as hell, and she probably was very attracted to the fact that we can fight.

I mean we're not going to be as good as Surt, but we can hold our own, and we were flashy about it. She's impressed.

>>23352260
>>23352265

You think about talking to the Engineers, but Bondsman is busy directing the construction of some sort of surveying device.

You walk calmly towards the Mages. Starana and Vertello are examining a chart of spell circles, looking for ones that match the one on the entrance door. Callukis sits behind them, his back propped up against a pillar. You wave to him. He's a very cute young boy, maybe 13 or 14, you guess, but when he sees you he immediately turns fearful. You try to smile and sit next to him but he kees shying away.

"Hey, kid, I'm not going to eat you. Do you wanna talk?"
He keeps staring at the ground. You continue.
"You don't need to worry, my powers don't affect children. That's why I like kids so much, you know, they're always so honest and don't go gaga over me."
He looks up a little.
"Are you sure you don't want to talk? I'm a very agreeable person, you know. Something's bothering you, I can tell!"
Callukis looks up at you. He's still afraid, but you then realize he's not afraid of you at all. He's afraid of the two standing behind you. You jump up.

"So, you really were angling in on him, then," says Vertello. Starana grins. "We didn't bring along this whelp for his use," she says, "We brought him because we detected a sort of Demonic resonance within him. Our research is very early-days, but when we heard a Succubus was going to aid the Emperor we knew it'd be a perfect opportunity to see what they could do to this brat."

Callukis whimpers. This isn't what you were expecting.

>>23352447

(oops, forgot)

What should you do now?

>>23352447
>>23352447
>This isn't what you were expecting.

Can't let them know that.

>>23352447
We are NOT telling them what Seeds are. We are NOT having a million Angels and demons under human control, fuck that.

>>23352494
No, we totally can.

"Well. Sorry to disappoint."

>>23352447
"Well, I feel better for that actually. I was baffled that none of you seemed to notice it. You could have just asked me though."

>>23352447
>>23352472
Smile sweetly at them. Don't let any surprise show on our face. See if we can angle into giving the kid a hug.

"That's not very nice of you now is it.

Making a cute boy like this scared. He seems like a real sweetheart.

So what has your early research found so far?"

Don't give them any actual information, but see what they have.

>>23352447
Well, that explains his lack of combat ability and that certain air of...abuse. Now what's this resonance thing?

>>23352494
>>23352513
>>23352527
>>23352543

So uh, consensus?

>>23352593
Id say do not tell them what exactly Seeds are. Lie if we have to. Try to find out how much they figured out, and if they seem on the right track lead them astray. I would rather not want to have to worry about an ambitious group of mages with demonic thralls trying to use BS magic to enslave heaven and hell.

>>23352590

Well, it's their mortal attempts to discover Demonseed.

>>23352593
Also mark them for death when we get back to the council.

>>23352668

Haha~

Okay, so if we say something like "Oh, how interesting, you can detect that, how much do you know exactly", is that alright with everyone?

>>23352593
Don't tell them what it is, try to pry more information out of them about what they know, comfort the kid.

>>23352715
NO! That an awful way of being surreptitious. It lets them know that this IS something VERY important.
Act like we dont know anything about what it is. LIE OUR ASSES OFF ABOUT IT!

>>23352715
>>23352741
Maybe "Can't a girl dote on a cute kid without being considered suspicious?"

They might get flustered and start talking about the resonance thing and what they know about it.

>>23352741
>>23352716

Okay, so "Oh, but this poor child seems so sad. What research would lead you to drag him up a mountain like this", would that be better?

>>23352715
Add something to the effect of "I was wondering if that was your work, disappointing that doesn't seem to be the case." then the whatbdonyou know part

>>23352780
This is MUCH better.
>>23352784
Adding this will only help matters.

>>23352784
>>23352778
>>23352741
>>23352716
>>23352640
>>23352590
>>23352589
>>23352543
>>23352527
>>23352513


You pick Callukis up, feigning concern.

"So you brought this poor child all the way up a mountain just to see if I'd do something with him? I feel badly for the boy. What "research" would prompt this?"

Vertello looks smug, and tells you to follow him to a more secluded area. The four of you walk away through the stone pillars, until the sounds of the others are far in the distance. Starana throws up a small illusion barrier.

"It all began about sixty years ago when one of my forebears wrote about a nun, who transformed into a monstrous titan in front of an entire village. On the same night, a demonic beauty visited the Queen and took her husband away."
Uh oh.
"Then I discovered a tale from the continent of Denderia where an alluring demon transformed a pair of young lovers in front of a crowd of startled bannermen into a gigantic beast. The Demon then used it to breach an ancient cathedral and steal away their religious leader." Vertello smiles.

>>23352946
"We've both studied the Demonic for some time, but in our studies we realized that some people have a resonance with Hellian magic."
"Our tests revealed that no matter what attempts we tried, the resonance would not activate, or do anything, in fact," says Starana, her haughty face seemingly getting more and more excited, " So we were stuck. That is, until we read through those records."
"You see," Vertello says, "We realized that it's possible that the people who transform are those who come into contact with Demons. We then heard about you, and decided to test our hypothesis on young Callukis here." The boy squeezes your hand as the Mage says this. He's terribly frightened. Normally you don't care about mortals but this kid reminds you of a small, helpless animal.

"So," finishes Vertello, "We want you to help us out. Awaken the latent power sleeping within Callukis, or we'll use this-" he snaps his fingers and a glowing green sigil appears on the boy's neck, "- to kill him anyway." Starana laughs.
"And then we can just tell the Emperor that you killed him. What are you going to do now, Demon?"

This will be difficult. What should you do?

>>23352952
How good is Surt's hearing?

>>23352999

He's busy and blocked off by distance and magic. You're alone on this one.

>>23352952
tell them to remove the rune because it will "interfere" with the process.

>>23352952
"Vertello, Starana, don't be stupid.

I'm not sure how much detail you know about those stories, but at the very least you know about the destruction of everyone and everything in the surroundings when this occurs.

You've spent your time scaring this poor kid, doing this for you would end in large amounts of death and destruction, probably starting with the two of you, you hurt him deeply, if I changed him right now he'd lash out.

If you two are good I'll do it before I leave so you can see what happens. Is this acceptable?"

>>23352952
In my experience, new demons are animalistic and impossible to control. The first thing they usually do is act out their inner emotions and fears.

*cough*

You two didn't do anything to make him want to hurt you, did you? Because if I do it, I'm not going to be able to control him. At all.

>>23352952
Well, if you're going to kill him anyway, sure I'll tweet whatever that thing is in him. But if you want to watch its going to cost you...(hold out a hand toward each of them, then point toward the more corrupt of the two) hmm, weak, but I suppose your soul might be worth something. Have anything better to trade?

>>23353052
>>23353048
>>23353045


"You read the stories, mortals. Newborn Demons aren't exactly controllable or even sane. If you go through with this, all his lingering feelings and emotions are going to bubble up and transform his psyche. Additionally, you'll need to remove the rune, because it'll interfere with my magic. Are you sure you want this?"

Vertello scoffs. "I have the magical power to restrain a dragon completely. A Demon baby is child's play." He waves a hand and the rune is gone. Callukis collapses slightly, and you catch him.

"Please..." He says.
"Please don't let them have me."

Starana steps forward. "We can blow him up with a Rune or wipe you both out with a fireball. Your choice. Or you can unleash our test subjects' potential and nobody needs to know you did it."

You frown, and take another look at Callukis' teary blue eyes.

Will you do it, or try to fight them?


>>23353119
(she's not authorized to take any souls, and they'd be useless anyway.)

>>23353161
What magical defenses do the Wizardy fucks have running currently? Would it be possible to use Seduce on one of them to turn them against the other?

Keep on talking, buy time, examine the situation more and their defenses.

"Nobody needs to know I did it? Because Demons just crop up out of nowhere like that.

That's the problem with mortals, never thinking things through, taking the long view, believing they're superior and because they can take a Dragon that they're invincible.

If you insist I'll do it, but you won't particularly like the results."

Don't do it yet, but chatting costs us nothing.

>>23353161
We have no idea what he's going to turn into. Is there a way to 'maximize' Callukis potential? I want to see these two arrogant fuckers try to control him and get eaten for their trouble.

>>23353161
Yeah, was trying to bluff with >>23353119
Did not want to admit to demon making. Ah well, best case senario would be to convince them to keep the kid as a secret weapon in reserve for now and transform him if needed latter, but they seem too impatient for that. Take the kid's hand and walk away saying something to the effect of "well if you want to blow 60 years worth of research to prove a poorly timed point, instead of waiting for the appropriate moment who am I to stop you?"

>>23353285
Prepare to revive the kid, publicly if at all possible when they kill him. Then explain the situation to the emperor.

>>23353311

Revival only works on yourself, unfortunately.

>>23353229
>What magical defenses do the Wizardy fucks have running currently? Would it be possible to use Seduce on one of them to turn them against the other?

They're both protected by powerful wards and charms.

>>23353161
Id say fucking kill them. We are marking them for death when we get back FOR CERTAIN if we dont.

>>23353340
They're dangerous as hell, and people are going to remark on both of them going missing like that.

Now if we transform the kid, help him kill them, and then spin a lie about them doing some magicy thing using our demonic essence to fuck with the poor kid, that might work. Them just showing up dead, not so much.

>>23353355
Actually tell the emperor about them doing this. He might not find it so tasteful.

They don't know anything about the transofmation besides it happening right? Can we bluff by saying it takes time or an artefact to prepare?

>>23353387
>>23353355
>>23353340
>>23353285
>>23353229

Okay, so 1. Buy time, 2. Transform him and let whatever happens, happen, or 3. Attack them?

>>23353401

Well they know it happens pretty suddenly from the records.

Keep in mind Surt doesn't want us to bring home new people.

That said, this sorceress seems like prime demon material. She's cruel and manipulative, she won't expect herself to be transformed, she has a mastery of magic, and she has a demon seed.

However, she's trying to manipulate us. And we simply can't allow that.

I say kiss the bitch.

>>23353421
The sorceress doesn't have a Seed.

The kid does.

>>23353408
Transforming him is a BAD idea. We want this emperor to TRUST us. If we go around random daemon makan that will be soooooo counterproductive to that goal. Try to stall and get the emperor in on this little affair.

>>23353421
Sorceress honest have a Seed.

>>23353446
Err doesnt have a seed rather.

>>23353408
What about option 4: Suggest the other person in the group that has a Seed.

>>23353464
They know the kid has the seed, or at least Demonic Resonance. We won't fool them on this part.

>>23353433
They know we're a succubutt, we go for a kiss shit is going to go down in a bad way.

So, they threaten Hells ambassador?

The Emperor will be real pleased when he hears about that.

Oops, I misread. The princess has the demon seed, not the sorceress.

Still, we can convince them that we have the power to turn them into demons. Or, we could say that we wanted to know who's abusing him.

>>23353485

Well, we know that, the Mages are abusing him.

Would the sulphur cloud work against these mages? We could "rescue" this kid and tell the emperor that the mages are abusing him and threatened to kill him.

so how fast is combust?

>>23353518

It takes a few minutes to warm up, the could just barrier it away.

>>23353512

Sure, but you're in an open space so it'd turn into a fireball shoot-out once they blow the cloud away with the wind.

I saw compliment these mages on their wickedness and offer them the opportunity to sell their souls for great power. Hell will get their souls eventually, since they're so evil and the sorceress is so old.

We could say that he's simply too young for it.

>>23353538
Op already vetoed this

>>23353533
if it does turn into a shoot-out, can we count on the Emporor's men to help us? And how many does he have?

So, deflect them with words, turn him, or fight, How do you all want to play this?

>>23353580

They're pretty far away and resting. Not fast enough to reach you before a spell does at all.

>>23353582
Fighting or turning the kid would end disastrously for us. All they know is that people can suddenly turn into demons and that we can cause this. I say lie about the nature of the demon seed and threaten to turn them. Also warn them that hell won't look favorably upon them for pulling this stunt.

>>23353587
If we die, we go back to hell, and get sent back. I say we stand and fight. Protect the boy and gain some credit for sparing his life. Sulfur screen our way out with the boy.

>>23353582
Deflect them with words, keep them talking, lie like hell, something about conditions not being right and that we'll keep their threat in mind and will turn him should the opportunity arise.

If we do fight, use sulfur screen as a diversion to kill them with our whip.

laugh in their faces and go back to the group.
"you understand nothing of hell's magic. do as you wish with the boy, he is no concern of mine."
bluffing

>>23353582
Use our words, words are powerful, I don't want to get into a fight or deal with the chaos that'll erupt from the boy getting turned.

We could say that we can't turn them, but the other demon can.

>>23353582
Fight, but fight by escaping with the boy! its not like they need to invoke words of power to do magic, choke em up with smog and get out of there with the boy. Get to the king.

"this boy is not yet ripe, and even if he were, I did not come equipped to catalyze his change.
lead them to believe the demonseed process is impossible at the moment, and that it requires special shit/secret hell magic
"i will not be held hostage by his life and the emperor will not be pleased with you for harming me... nor will surt"

>>23353750
Well said.

>>23353622
>>23353641
>>23353652
(okay first, talking our way out)

"Look. I don't think you understand what you are asking. This boy will definitely kill you. I can't be held responsible for that. This thing is wildly unpredictable and you'll be marked for this by my masters in Hell."

You step in front of Callukis, and manifest your Flame Whip.
Vertello tenses, but Starana steps forward.
"Demon, we have slain Ogres, Revenants, and Wyverns. We are masters of magic. Should you attempt to run, I will unleash a seeking starlance that will cut you and the boy down."
"Listen, mortal, I can't just-"
"You can. We need a succubus like the texts say. Do it or die."

You decide that you can't get through to these people. You're going to have to run. You prepare to unleash your Sulfur Cloud as a smokescreen when a small voice to your side speaks out.

"Do it."
Surprised, you turn around.
"But, kid, if I-"
"It's okay. My life can't get any worse, and this way you don't have to die either." You look at him and you suddenly see the lash wounds around his neck and on his arms where the robes have fallen back. This boy has had a hard life.
Vertello laughs. "See? Even our slave there wants what you have to give. You should do as he wishes!" Starana raises her arms and in more dismissal.
"Go on, leave him here, It's not like Demons care about mortals or anything. We'll just kill him to save you the trouble..." She gives you a nasty smile. "...But you do care, because he has that resonance, right? You can't just leave him."
You growl. "The Emperor-"
"The Emperor listens to us, not you. He may be putting on a brave face but he knows you are a monster just like the rest of us. We know you can turn him right now, So do it."

Okay, now what?

>>23353778
> didn't see >>23353750
AHHHHHHHH

>>23353794

I-I'm sorry! ;_; next time ok~

You're back. Awesome!

>>23353805
'tis alright. It's not too late, though what we've said so far will make our lie less believable.
....!
We could fake it, then explain it away through deception.

>>23353778
Combust him. It takes a little while, but act like you are turning the boy, combust them both into tiny piles of ash. We will toy with their souls later

"What, you think every female demon who is sent to the mortal realm knows that spell? I am a diplomat/investigator."

>>23353864
and by that, I mean buy a LITTLE more time so you can have them burst into flame

>>23353778
>you do care, because he has that resonance, right?
We can just leave him though, can't we? We don't actually need him, and our buddy isn't too happy about bringing home more demons

Fake it, act incredulous, then explain that he must be too unripe and would require assistance and supplies.

"those people you mentioned had sold their souls in return for some worldly favor. their soulless bodies were used as vessels for some of our greater demons, that is what you read about. This boys soul is still with him, rendering him uninhabitable. You understand nothing of my world and your crude 'tests' and ancient fables provide you little insight into our mechanisms"
"provide a demon with a reason to assist you and perhaps then you'll find one willing to inhabit this body"

>>23353778
Turn him.

"Mortals, always so foolish, so hasty and arrogant.

Very well, I will fulfill this task for you, remember, you are the ones who did this to yourselves."

>>23353878
They won't believe that.

>>23353872
>>23353864
They're fucking covered in magical wards and defenses, I can't see that working.

>>23353877
They'll attack us if we try to not do it.

>>23353778
First congratulate them. Remark that you will take special care to seek out their souls when they arrive in hell. Because there is no doubt where they show up.

We could commit suicide. How does the revival spell work?

Or, we could call them on their bluff. Why would they waste such potential just to spite us?

>>23353902
Then we do it.

Remark that we'll be sure to give their souls to the kid to play with for as long as he wants when they are in hell.

>>23353902
>>23353888
>>23353884
>>23353878
>>23353877
>>23353872
>>23353869

So one for turning him, one for attacking, Majority for more stalling or talking them down?

>>23353778

"Alright. Say I don't go through with this. You do kill the both of us, done. Unfortunately that leaves your hypothesis unproven, try as you might you won't find an opputunity better than this. Not, Starana within your rapidly dwindling life cycle.
Not to mention the Emporer can be swayed of my betrayal, I don't doubt that, but then what do you suppose my purpose is being here at all?
If he is denied his assistance do you think that the empire you have chosen to ally with will last? Are you willing to risk the fate of an empire on a tenuous correlation between incidents decades apart?
Maybe you mages would survive, but I assure you screw this oppurtunity and you won't get another.

Let me tell you. You're screwing it up right now, you're screwing it hard."

I say taint the boy an walk away as he transforms. Walk right up to the Emperor and tell him what happened and that we are fucking furious that the wizards insulted and threatened us.

We could exaggerate the unpredictability of the demon seed. The child could simply become a pitiful, powerless blob, or he could become a pit fiend.
>>23353927
This sounds like a very good idea.

>>23353920
Come to think of it, I see your point. Will this transformation remove is conciousness?

>>23353956

Completely unknown what will result.

>>23353956
No, but it will twist his personality into something more...demonic.

See the first thread for the nun that became a lesbian massacring puppet-master of zombies.

>>23353983
The nun became a big smashy monster, Gepette was a lesbian maid who we seduced.

Could we just hit one of them with a Charm spell?

>>23353983
welp fuck that, fightan time. Bright side, if we die, they come to investigate, we get right back the fuck up after getting a magical lance to the face/tits.

>>23354011
Maybe, but they're both covered in defense wards, charms, spells, and so on. And paranoid as fuck, they won't let us get close enough to touch them for that.

>>23354011
WARDS

HOW MANY TIMES

THEY HAVE WARDS

>>23354010
oh. right. (maybe I should reread the threads...)
>>23353927
This sounds really persuasive. Call the assholes on their bluff.

>>23354024
They are are covered in wards, they are paranoid. But, are.they. quick? were certainly lithe as fuck and can most likely cleave an asshole or two apart before shit hits the fan.

>>23353927

Are you guys happy if we go with this, then try to engage them if it fails?

provoke them into killing us
let them explain why to the emperor (she attacked us, etcetc)
resurrect ourselves
casually stroll up to the emperor and explain what happened. if we'd wanted to kill them we could've/the child is a witness maybe?
get the emeror to fuck their shit

>>23354065
That sounds good, though if it comes to conflict I'd prefer to book it than try to fight or turn the kid and sic him on them, but I like the dialogue.

>>23354083
I second this, not like they wil kill the boy. point out the lash marks if anything.

>>23354083
just tell the emperor the truth when we come back
they were willing to release a demon in this kid and compromise your goal here today
hell will not take kindly unless they are punished

perhaps stonestern will back us up

Rolled 20

>>23354083
>>23354145

If this can work, add my vote to id.

>>23354164
woops, left dice on...

>>23354083
Of course we could have killed them. They all saw us during the fight. Certainly we would have at least wounded them. How dare they attack an ambassador unprovoked and then try to cover up the crime.

"I've never been more insulted in my life! Even in ell, no emissary is attacked unprovoked! Surt! We are finishing what we came here to do and then we are LEAVING!"

(beep beep beep! You ran out of time!)

"I can't do this, you're going to have to explain yourselves to the-"
"No more talking."

Vertello raises his arm and something small and shining shoots out of his sleeve. You bring up your whip only to cry out in surprise as the object rapidly expands in size! It becomes a pearlescent beetle-like machine with silver wings. The machine flies towards you, and extends mint-green tendrills of light, and before you can do anything the machine is latched onto your back, the tendrils wrapping around you body. The searing pain surprises you, causing you to scream in pain as it constricts your movements. The tentacles drag your arm to the right, and you realize it has complete control of your body!

Vertello laughs. "It works! Exactly as the Angel said it would. Now, Demon, we can use you to activate Callukis whether you want to or not. I was hesitant on using up our heavenly gift, but you forced my hand with all your babble."

You cry out as the boy stares at you. The machine on your back whirrs and drags you closer...and then it's done. Callukis shivers as the energy flows into his body, and you feel your magic reserves drain upon contact. Starana laughs, and Vertello grins as you feel the machine on your back detach. It crumbles into dust. You leap to your feet, strength regenerating, and are about to interrogate these foolish humans when a wave of...despair? Loathing. Pain. Sadness. Grief. You feel your mind fill up with pure loss. You start crying for a few moments as your conciousness stabilizes. Starana and Vertello also break out in tears, unsure of where this lump of unhappiness came from. You turn to Callukis.

The boy's body is phasing out of his clothes...and his skin is black. And white? It's a speckled pattern. Oh. Oh no.

No. No. No.

>>23354317

The boy cries, his every pore leaking tears and grief. He curls up into a ball. You know what's going to happen and you can't let it! You reach for him but your hand meets solid resistance. You're too late. Around the boy a globe forms, a murky sphere, A shield of pure antipathy that pushes away everything, even existence. His sobs become silent as the orb is almost opaque.

You've done something horrible. The ball shrinks, and melting out of the floor come milky, bone-like rods and joints, forming a contorted, twisted skeleton clustered around the ball in the chest. Finally the orb turns completely solid, and the only thing marking it is a symbol of a closed eye. You feel dizzy.

"What...what happened?" The foolish mages ask. You answer them.
"This is a Demonculus. A soul that has no hope, no dreams, no life, will become something horrible. This creature is... a failure."
Silence.
"What do you mean, a failure? We wanted a-"
"WHAT YOU WANTED IS IRRELEVANT. YOU HAVE ENDED HIM." You snarl at them, cowing the humans into silence.
"You humans don't understand. You die, you reincarnate, you live in some form or another. You always get another chance. But this, This, this thing is...he's gone! He's frozen like this for eternity now! This is the ultimate damnation for an Immortal! He is nothing more than a frozen power source for this golem, this automaton. He can never aspire, or think, or achieve, or even live...You've...I..."

You stare at this thing in front of you. It is an obedient slave to the letter. Humanity is fleeting, but Callukis is trapped for good.

Your head hurts. You don't know what to do. The Mages are dumbstruck so at least you can get your thoughts in order. What should you do?

>>23354323
Get the Demonculus and take him to the Emperor and tell him of the Mages' crimes, threatening an emissary, consorting with angels, performing actions that would threaten the safety of his mission.

>>23354323
KILL THEM NOW. GET SURT AND KILL THESE WORTHLESS PIECES OF SHIT.

>>23354317
>(beep beep beep! You ran out of time!)
oh come on! we could've at least rolled for it.

>>23354323
Storm out, shouting about ignorant, arrogant mages and tell the Emperor what happened. That his conjurers tortured and abused a child and then used a magical contraption to force us to do what they wanted. Demand an explanation for their behavior, and ask him if it was his goal to insult and mistreat ambassador. Threaten to leave immediately and let our superiors know what happened.

>>23354323

Well shit.

Theres nothing in it. Bring it with us and tell the Emporer, before they think to cover their tracks. Notify him of these mages' lack of respect for the limits of magic.
Let him deal with them, we don't have a place in punishing these ignorants.

Inform the emperor, let him handle it. Try to get him to execute and/or torture them.

>>23354385
yea, would have helped, but oh well, OP just damned a soul

>>23354428

Don't forget to publicly mention that an ANGEL gave them the tool to do so. It never hurts to give some bad PR to the competition. Especially when it's true.

>>23354323
Is there anything we can do for him?

>>23354354
>>23354399
>>23354415
>>23354428

You lift yourself up, choke down your bitterness, and turn to the Mages...only to find out they have teleported. Fuck!

Suddenly a blade slices through the Illusion wall, and Surt is there, along with the rest of the group. The Emperor steps forward, concern on his face.

"My sword, Sunfury, reacts to magic," he says, "So when it detected a massive flash I used the Runes provided by the Dwarves to find you. What has happened here?"

You start from the beginning.

"Your mages dragged me into performing some spell on their Callukis that would awaken his magical potential. You see, Demons can turn certain individuals into other Demons, if we decide to do so." The Guardsmen tense and Milia recoils in horror. The Emperor gulps.
"And? What happened?"
You point at the Demonculus.
"See for yourself."
The group walks past you, surrounding the pliable, dull machine, poking and prodding it. You feel your heart sink at this horrible mess...when suddenly Surt comes forwards and slaps you across the face, sending you sprawling across the cold stone floor.

"What have you done?!" He says, and the humans turn to watch. "You've doomed him to an eternity of torment! How could you allow this to happen!" You struggle to your feet, tears in your eyes from the pain.
"I couldn't stop myself! They used some accursed Heavenly Device to control my body! They said the Angel told them how to use me!" Surt recoils in shock.
"The Aeicus?! But those were destroyed milennia ago!" He steps back in alarm. The humans are following this with confusion.
"What do you mean, destroyed?" You manage, still sore, "Is there something I don't know about this mission?" Surt shakes his head.

>>23354573
"During the Wheel Succession Wars, the Angels used Aeicus to control us. That is how we were nearly defeated until the Seven Deadly Sins arose and managed to force a stalemate. Those machines should have fallen when the Plane of Azazel burned." He runs a hand over his gnarled red horns. "I apologize...It was not your fault." The Warrior Demon helps you up.
"Still, I...It was my magic. If I was not here he would have been spared this." You feel like complete shit, and start to wander back towards the Main Hall's camp.
You're sitting down next to the pedestal, clutching your legs. The Demonculus stands nearby. You realize that Milia is looking at you with less digust and more concern, but you really don't care at the moment.

Surt points to the map on the table, and the Emperor, his men, and the Dwarves stand nearby. Professor Bondsman has finished his apparatus and has returned to the tunnels above with two soldiers to bring the construction crew along.

"We have three options," says Surt, "According to this map, the way ahead splits into three paths. They are called Vault, Communion, and Aperture." The Emperor considers this, but turns to you.

"Lady Demon, since you seem to be without a goal, perhaps you could decide ours? Shall we go to the Vault, to the Communion, or to the Aperture?

Where to?

Rolled 1

>>23354576
"I don't care."
Summon a d3, let fate decide. Cruel, cruel fate.

>>23354576
The Communion sounds interesting.

>>23354576
What do they know about those rooms?

>>23354622

Just the names.

>>23354636
Vault or Communion

So if we're here to break a seal, shouldn't they know which one has the seal? Or is it some passed down knowledge thing?

>>23354711

The mission was to open the front door and escort the Emperor through to the point he considers the debt fulfilled. You'd also need to check out the Underground facility and find the double agent who has something important to tell you.

>>23354739
>>23354576
>>23354659

Seconding Vault, maybe find something interdasting there

>>23354739
Well there aren't really many other choices left for who it is. It's not the Mages, not the Dorf, not the Sister.

Looks to be Bondsman.

So Vault or Communion?

>>23354783
The vault. Maybe we will chance upon some fat loot.

>>23354783
Vault!

>>23354794
>>23354767
>>23354659
>>23354854


To the Vault. You struggle to your feet, and tell the Emperor that they should continue straight while you investigate the Vault. The Emperor nods, and you move on.

The dark, pillared Hall leaves a morose feeling as you walk through the cold stone expanse, accompanied only by the clinking steps of the Demonculus. You're still feeling terrible.

From the Hall you enter a long, shadowed corridor, leading to another room. This one is more vertical than horizontal, and seems to be structured around a tower-like set of shelves.

However, every shelf is empty. You can see marks in the dust where ancient books were stored, but nothing remains to be seen. Another dead end.

You sit on the floor for a while. The room is huge, and the staggered, stair-covered shelf-tower compounds the disappointing emptiness of the room.

However, there seems to be a small set of switches on the corner wall.

It could be a trap, or it could be treasure. Will you leave to catch up with the rest or fiddle with the switches?

>>23354905
maybe get to a safe distance and have the demonculus flip the switch?

>>23354905
Investigate the switches a bit more, see if there's any identifying markings.

Then either flip them from as far away as possible, very carefully, with our whip or if that doesn't work have the Demonculus flip them.

>>23354924
>>23354966

Seconding

>>23354924
>>23354966
>>23355049


You go over and inspect the ancient-looking switches. They don't seem to have any markings, but they haven't been used in a while. You step back a bit, and try to use your whip to flick them, but it doesn't have enough force behind it.

Hesitating, you ask the Demonculus to do it. The soul-slave obediently walks forwards and flips a switch with a misshapen finger.

There's a loud screech as the wall falls down and a series of iron spikes inpale into the Demonculus....or so it seems. Actually, you see as you get to your feet that the screech was the metal spikes bending and snapping on contact with the indestructible skin of Callukis's walking prison. Sighing, you pull the automaton free and climb over the ruined trap.

You pull out a dusty white tome, made from a beautiful white stone and decorated with golden wings on the cover. Eager to flip it open, you place it on the floor, and turn the pages. You realize you can't read the script- it's nothing like Demonic.

Curious, you flip through more pages- and find something! It's a sketch of the the controlling Angel machine, the one that Surt called the Aeicus. This book, you realize, must be some sort of design document or schematic.

Then this facility....

>>23355120

"This facility is Angelic." You spin around to find Surt. He has a look of concern on his face. "I went to the Communion Room while the humans went on ahead. Inside I found a spell circle- and a recorded message. In it, an Angel calling himself Cithis talks about the reconstruction of the Aeicus." You jump to your feet, breasts jiggling.
"Cithis?! But I encountered him once! He nearly killed me, he was doing research on Demonseed in the Denderian city years ago." Surt nods.
"I know, I read your report on that event. Something rather major is happening, we need to finish this mission and report to the Hell Council." You nod and pick up the book.

The two of you hurry out the rear of the facility, towards Aperture. Exiting through a large corridor, you find yourself in a more natural cavern, with a carved tunnel ahead. Turning around, you see that the Underground Facility was an enclosed structure nestled inside the rock, strangely enough. Questions upon Questions.

Ahead, you make it to the Emperor's group. Strangely, they've hunkered down in a small dip in the rocky path, and Lirrec waves you over.

"Why have you stopped?" You say, and the Emperor looks concerned.
"Look over the edge."
You see, up ahead, a group of black-clothed individuals. They aren't Wildmen, or bandits, and there are lots of them. Despite their lack of armor they seem to carry dangerous-looking swords and axes, and this is certainly an auspicious place for an ambush.

Will you attack? Try to sneak past? Or flee?

>>23355131
How many abouts? How many do we have? Do they seem to have a single leader? Are there any ways to circle around to to effectively ambush them instead or to sneak around them as a group?

I'd rather not have to deal with them, but I'd vastly prefer luring them into springing the ambush and getting caught instead over them hitting our group from behind.

>>23355187

There's a few side tunnels that connect and merge together with the main one. There's about thirty assailants that you can see. They all seem similar.

>>23355223
Okay, have the main group of soldiers form lines, a couple small groups of the best take side tunnels to get behind them. Then the main forces spring the ambush and when the enemies are committed they get slaughtered from behind.

>>23355252
By form lines I mean form ranks, shields in front, defensive positions, slow advance, spearmen behind them if possible, bowmen and slingers behind the main group.

>>23355223
Any of them have the demon seed? Maybe you could seduce one to serve as a distraction?

>>23355325

You can't tell from this distance.

Ask for Surt's advice. Mention that the Demonculus was impervious to the spike trap.

>>23355252

You suggest that you form ranks and try to catch them in an ambush. The Emperor agrees.

"We will form two groups. My group, consisting of the Demon Lady, my Four Imperial Elite Guards, Milia, and Lord Sternstone, will move from the side while Surt, the Dwarves, and the rest of our Tarastan Soldiers will attack from the front."

Mila uncomfortably gets into position next to you. You can hear her heartbeat and smell the magical scent of the Demonseed within her. She's rather beautiful with short, wavy Platinum hair and soft, maidenly pink lips. She catches you staring and glares. You smile. Sure, you fucked up earlier, but now you had a goal and a target. Cithis is going to pay.

On the Emperor's mark, you set out, moving quietly into the loamy soil of the side tunnel. The weak ground, while not very good for grip, helps lower noise, and as such your flanking manuver will be more effective. From the holey, gnarled sides you look down at the black-clad warriors. They seem to bear embossed wing symbols, and you see what looks to be a leader wearing a silver mask.

Suddenly, battle is joined. Surt, the Dwarves, and the army men attack the intruders, swinging their blades with reckless abandon. The unidenfied attackers are impaled upon spears and hacked apart easily, but several soldiers and one of the Dwarves are taken down by their wild, fanatical counterattack! You consider using one of your spells to combust the leader but he suddenly ducks out of sight as more of the black-clad attackers arrive from deeper within the cave.

>>23355495

Suddenly, there's a loud clanking noise as Milia's uncomfortable armor gets the better of her, and she falls to the ground with a thump. The Emperor swears loudly as a group of black warriors rush towards the sound and battle is joined.

You swing your flame whip to try and take down the attackers, but one kicks you against the wall. As you stagger to your feet- the ground starts to shake! Cave-in!

The unstable tunnel rocks, and your entire group is suddenly knocked off-kilter as the side wall of the tunnel gives out, and you fall down into a completely different room. You hear the yell of one of the Elite Guard as he is crushed by a rock.

Clambering up again, you look around amid the groans of the men and women around you. You're in a ruined tomb for some ancient individual, and a cracked-open, dust-filled sarcophagus marks their end. The only exit is caved-in, and even as Sternstone and Emperor Tarasta push themselves against it, that you are trapped.

At least the Demonculus survived, you think, as it stands lazily to attention. Milia is crouched down against a wall, and Hell knows how Surt and the others are doing.

Ideas?

>>23355501
Get the robot to start digging. Then take a look around the room.

>>23355501
>Ideas?
>The only exit is caved-in

not without more information

>>23355501
Make sure everybody is alright. Then begin to look around. There must be some other way to get out of here.

>>23355501
Well fucksticks. Have the Demonculus help with the cave-in. He might be able to help clear it.

Then check on Milia, get her standing. We may have to turn her for this. Bring her with us and check the Sarcophagus.

>>23355524

You ask the Demonculus to try and break through the dirt and rock blocking the way out. It flails at the cave-in, but only manages to expose larger, solid rocks blocking the exit. It seems to be unable to break through.

>>23355528

You could try to blow the rocks up with a Skull Bomb, but there's very little cover in the room and it may take you out or cause another cave-in. You'd need some sort of directed energy...

>>23355538

The Emperor has managed to survive, because of his amazing enchanted armour, but his sword, Sunfury, seems to have diminished in power since he's been underground too long. Lord Sternstone has wounded his arm, but he seems to be in good spirits. The men are battered but alive, and Milia...well...

>>23355543

You walk over to Milia. She has her head in her hands and you can hear her sobbing. You guess she wasn't pleased with how things have gone on this adventure.

"Princess?" you ask, crouching down next to her, "Are you alright?"
"Go away," comes the reply in-between sniffles, "You probably think this is hilarious..."
Her voice drops to a whisper. "I'm not fit to be a Princess of the Empire.."

Hm, How can you get her on her feet again?

>>23355580

>Her voice drops to a whisper. "I'm not fit to be a Princess of the Empire.."

"Only if you stay there. A princess would stand up and keep going."

Hold out a hand to her.

>>23355603

Seconding

>>23355603
thirding

>>23355580
"You're still young, and you've done an admirable job so far. Everybody has to start somewhere, it's just important to keep going. You seem to be an intelligen woman, any idea how we might get out of here?"

>>23355580
"Nobody ever starts as being fit for their responsibilities, they have to grow into them.

You can either sit there and cry or you can take my hand and stand back up again, like a Princess would."

Hold out a hand for her and when she reaches for it pull her up and give her a kiss. "I couldn't resist, pretty girl like you staring at me all day."

>>23355603
>>23355611
>>23355631
>>23355634

You smile.

"Only if you stay there, A Princess would get to her feet and keep going."

You hold out your hand. Milia looks up at you through teary eyes. She still seems to distrust you, but you smile still. Eventually she takes your hand, and you feel her warm, still soft hands in yours.

Getting to her feet, Milia dusts off her dress while blushing furiously, averting her gaze out of embarassment, not disgust.

You giggle, startling her.

"You're still young, human, and you've done a decent job so far. Everyone has to start somewhere, I should know! Do you have any idea how many demons I had to flirt with to get my current job? Look," you laugh and pull yourself closer to her suddenly, "I'll show you how I did it!" and go in for a kiss. She yells in surprise and pushes you backwards, and your butt smashes through the sarcophagus, obviously forcing some ancient king or sorcerer to have a post-mortem face-sitting session. You can't help but laugh, and to your surprise, Milia laughs too. Good.

You help yourself up and pat the dust off of your cloaked rear, while turning to Milia.

"You seem like an intelligent woman, any idea of how we might get out of here?

Milia wanders over to the caved-in section, and puts her hand on the stone. She seems distant. You head over and look at her a bit, and she gets self-concious and looks away again.

"W-well it's not really sensible, but when I was a child I used to have these dreams where my punches could break through anything. I'd bash my way through all the monsters in the books my mother would read to me..." She seems sheepish.

"I wouldn't mind being able to do that right now."

You think to yourself. Maybe she could...?

>>23355714
NO! Just plain fucking NO! The robot was bad enough we are NOT turning this into a 100% snafu.

>>23355726
but it's obvious we could end up having lesbian sex with her.

I want to activate the demon seed, but I think we should investigate other options. I think it would be a bad idea to activate it now.

>>23355714
offer to cast Taint on her

>>23355714
Nope. I have to agree with >>23355726. This is not the time and place for that. Let's investigate the chamber more closely before we even consider that again.

"Who knows, stranger things have happened~"

>>23355738

It would be a VERY bad idea to activate it without her permission. If we are doing it, we are going to tell her about how it works first and what she's agreeing too.

After all, these people are allies, not foes. We don't want to start a fight with them by demoning their princess without warning.

>>23355714
Check the sarcophagus a bit, and double check our surroundings for an exit or something we missed.

"Oh, I can do that for you sweetie, won't even hurt. I won't promise you punches, but I can make you strong, you'd like that wouldn't you? Being the one who rides to the rescue instead of being saved.

You'd be giving up a lot, but you could become so much more.

I won't even ask much, all I need is a kiss from a very pretty girl."

>>23355752

Agreed. No trickery (Charm is acceptable). An honest, open offer. With everyone aware of her choice and that it is HER choice.

>>23355762
>>23355752
>>23355750
>>23355738
>>23355726

"Well hey, you never know."

You head back to the Sarcophagus, and kick the lid off. Then to Milia's surprise you yank her sword out of her scabbard and start stabbing it into the dusty depths of the stone container. You explain that you're looking for any sort of escape or false floor, but even after tearing the rock sides off and pushing the dust onto the floor...nada.

Lord Sternstone comes over, and looks at your mess.

"You won't find an exit down there, we're on solid rock now." The Dwarf gives a humourless smile. "This is the lowest floor."

The Emperor sits down after another unsuccessful attempt to move the rocks.

"If anyone has any ideas, I would like to hear them."

You consider your options, or rather, option. Milia looks at you perplexed.

How exactly are you going to voice this?

>>23355752
>>23355789
Dont even MAKE the offer. This is an incredibly stupid time for something like this to happen. Like BADWRONG stupid.

>>23355793
This REALLY isnt how one goes about making allies.

>>23355793
Not at all. How high up is the hole we fell through? Maybe we can try to climb out somehow?

>>23355793
"So Milia, how would you feel if I said that the only one who could save us is you?

I bet you've always wanted to be the person who comes and saves people instead of always being saved. You've always wanted to be strong instead of weak.

I can make you strong, strong enough to save us, strong enough to protect everyone. Are you interested sweetheart?

You'll have to give up what you have now, but you'll become what you've always dreamed of, what you've always desired. I offer you strength, I offer you eternity, all I want from you is a kiss."

>>23355822

It's blocked off by debris~

This is the best situation in which to activate the demonseed. We can convince her and everybody else that this is the best decision, and then get lesbian sex later.

Our only other option is the skull bomb, and we don't know how many casualties that would cause.

Get her permission to activate the demon seed, then activate it. Convince her that demons aren't bad people; it's the angels' fault that the boy is now doomed to an eternity of torment.

CHOO CHOOOOOOO

>>23355842

Sorry, it's just that I wrote a later part with her included, so she's necessary later on when you need to rally an army in future

I will say that the Brother is more important to worry about right now.

>>23355837
If we revive, do we get to choose where we return to this world, or is it in exactly the same place?

If there any way we can send a message to hell asking for some help?

>>23355851
...Why don't you just post what you wrote then? Why ask for our input?

>>23355858

You revive in the same spot a few minutes later.

And no, the spell tying you to the Human plane is taking up most of your energy, and it's a sentient spell that will return you once all the perameters are fulfilled. Until the Emperor says you're free to go, you're stuck.

>>23355851
>Sorry, it's just that I wrote a later part with her included
THAT'S THE DEFINITION OF RAILROADING
If you don't let us make important choices, you aren't GMing you're writing a short story, or fanfic.

>>23355866

Because that's next game not this one.

>>23355883

You've decided the majority of this though. I'm just sticking in some stuff to keep it the over-arching plot sort of cohesive. How you handle it is up to you.

I thought this was SuccuBUS Quest, not SuccuTRAIN Quest.

I'm sorry, I just thought of that. I thought it was funny.

>>23355901
that was funny, but can we get back to getting out of this tomb without activating her demonseed

>>23355931

There's a way, but you have to be inventive.

>>23355931
OP just said that he won't allow any other option. It's a pity. I nearly thought this quest was nearly as good as BFQ.

>>23355948
Oh, but you don't have to turn her, you just have to get her on your side. Like I said, you have to be inventive.

...does seduce give the target extra power?

>>23355942
Well, in that case we should take inventory of what we have available.

We have:
1x Demon robot
1x Emperor
1x Princess
1xDwarvem lord

1xMagic sword
...
What kind of exquipment do the others have? That one guard that was crushed, can we salvage anything from his corpse?

Ohh, I see.

Sorry, no, the railroading comment I thought was about befriending her. Oops.

What I meant was that you have to befriend Milia this mission, because the next Mission Plan I wrote up involves her helping out.

Sorry for the confusion. All the pieces are in the room, you just have to put them together to escape.

If you can't figure it out in ten minutes I'll tell you.

>>23355984

I'm sorry that befriending her counts as railroading, it's just I thought that fulfilling the mission would automatically mean that you guys would gain her respect since the perameter to win was to safely escort her and her brother through!

Sorry ;_;

>>23355984
Was the guy whose tomb we're currently trapped in buried with something that might help us?

>>23355984
> ten minutes
What? The post rate on /tg/ is low. Give us more time.

>>23355984
What if we don't want to?

What if we decide we could do without her?

>>23355994
>>23355984
I think the complaints were about demonifying her. I know I was a bit upset about it, didn't post it though.

>>23356000

Then the Emperor would kill you instantly, I guess.

>>23356004

Well you don't have to.

>>23355999
Sure, if you think you need it.

protip: don't put players in situations where only your preconceived solutions will work, unless it's a difficult puzzle and they're okay with that.

File: 1361709855322.gif-(1.89 MB, 300x169, 2f7bbf52-7f1b-400c-9a53-0(...).gif)

1.89 MB GIF

>>23355961

How about sunfury? I bet even slightly powered down it should still be capable of releasing some of that pent up magic.
I don't know how we'd coax it out and focus it however, but I'm willing to bet that sword's the key

Captcha:
>sword equivac

Even Captcha agrees!

>>23356022

You're totally right, I'll be much more careful in future.

>>23356032

Possibly, but how would you use it?

>>23355961
Okay then. Let's talk to her.

"So Milia, why do you hate me so much? I've quite literally done nothing but be polite, civil, and kind towards you. And I'm not blind, I know you think I'm pretty. What have I done to make you dislike me?

Why did you come here? You're wearing armor you can't move in and carrying a sword you can barely swing. You want to be strong don't you? Strong just like I am. Strong enough to punch the monsters and save people. Am I right?"

>>23356056
Well, ask the Emperor how his sword works and what abilities it has.

>>23356056

Cripes. It reacts to magic, alright, ask the emprah if he's ever tested its abilities, perhaps he knows how to channel the magic reaction this thing has.
The plan would be to chuck the most powerful spell we have at it and then somehow the emporer can use it to clear them rocks.
Other than that I'm out of ideas

>>23356071
>>23355998

You decide to have a think. You're in a room, full of dust and bones. The walls are carved from stone. There are a few shards of broken pottery on an alcove, but nothing decently solid. Also the alcoves themselves don't seem to have any hidden openings.

You look towards the center of the room, tail swaying. The massive stone slabs of the gigantic sarcophagus lie where they fell. Your attention turns to the Emperor, who is also looking around the room.

You get an idea.

"Emperor, may I ask you something?" The blonde-haired man turns to you, and straightens up.
"What exactly can your sword do?"
"Sunfury?" The Emperor smiles and pulls it free from its giant scabbard. THe blade glows, though duller than it once was.
"My weapon can detect light and draw it from the air, and it can detect magic and show me it along the blade's surface. Additionally, were it fully charged, it could unleash a powerful energy blast! However we're underground so it can only direct a smaller beam."

>>23356129
Tell him to detect magic in the room. Something might be up.

>>23356129
Can it only be charged by sunlight?

>>23356129
"Would a fire be enough to charge it?"
By the way, is there any light in this room? Can we see at all? If so, where is it coming from?

>>23356137

The blade is currently static and unmoving. The Emperor tells you that nothing magical is going on. He runs it across the room to demonstrate.

>>23356145
>>23356148

You point to the distant gloomy lights from the holes in the blocked ceiling passage. "Can we charge it on that, or does it have to be direct sunlight? What about fire?"

The Emperor shakes his head. "It must be the direct beams of the sun."

>>23356148
Seconding this, failing that ask if he can carve a hole through the cave in that we might call for help.
Or hoik a skull grenade on the otherside while we use the Sacophagus' stone covers as cover, we shouldn't get liquified by the shock wave and the shrapnel should be taken by the stone slabs, assuming we have them in the right position.

Well, we might as well give it a shot. Ask the dwarves for their advice; surely they would know how to escape cave-ins.

> I seduce the rocks to move out of the way.

>>23356216
at this point with me out of ideas i think its a valid strategy

>>23356171
The dwarf might be helpful, he'd know cave stuff, might be able to work out a way to use the sword beam to help.

But other than that I'm not seeing a good option other than Tainting Milia.

I summon a train to get me out of this contrived ass situation.

>>23356228
>other than Tainting Milia.
which i would veto because it feels way to railroaded

>>23356251
well it's either
> Taint Milia
or
> Figure out the puzzle to spite the GM

>>23356179
>>23356205
>>23356228

(you got it, Duffy)

You turn to Sternstone, who has been bandaging his arm. He seems nonplussed.

"In a cave-in, you either wait for your comrades to aid you, and possibly die, or hack your way out, and possibly die." You give him a frown, which causes the old Dwarf to laugh. "I don't know, why not use those slabs to shield yourself from blasting? Not that we have anything to blast with."

You jump up with a start. Of course, your Skull Bomb!

You could set up everyone in a wedge using the stone slabs from the Sarcophagus as a blast shield, then blast the door open. It's certainly worth a try. You explain the plan to your comrades, and very quickly set everyone up behind the wedge.

You breathe in, and the dark, beady-eyed bomb appears in your hand. You quickly toss the green-glowing grenade towards the door and duck behind the barricade.

A tremendous bang occurs, and rocks fall from the ceiling and nearly crush you- luckily the stone slabs take the brunt of the impact.

Your group heads outside, and the fresher air greets you.

There's two routes, back towards the Facility to save Surt and his group, or forwards towards, hopefully, sunlight. Should you go back or press on?

>>23356293
...YOU TOLD US EARLIER THAT WOULDN'T WORK

WHAT THE FUCK DM

>>23356293
Go back, at the very least for Surt, I like the guy. Do it cautiously, and if things look too bad we'll hoof it.

>>23356301

Actually, he told us the issue was a lack of ways to CHANNEL the blast. We found a way.

>>23356301

I said the debris would kill you without cover, not that it wouldn't work.

>>23356301
He said the blast could hurt us. Using a shield protected us.

>>23356293
Basically, everybody who has a name other than us hurries back to the surface, the nameless rank-and-file soldiers come with us to save surt's group.

Save the others.

>>23356301
Actually he told us that there didn't appear to be much cover.
We got side tracked with the prospect of turning Milia methinks, but lets proceed old boy.

>>23356293
Move out towards Surt. We can't let him go down on his own. He wouldn't be dead already, but something tells me that we might have to end up fighting him if we do go back for him.
But then leaving him in thrall is just not done either, save him the others I say.

Let's go find Surt with the entire party (or, at the very least, Milia)

>>23356335
>>23356333
>>23356312
>>23356372

"My lords, my lady, I suggest you head for the surface. I'll go back and fetch the remainder of the troops and my compatriot." The Emperor looks at you for a moment, but nods. "Indeed, that will be more efficient. Lirrec, you and Corrum go with her."

You run off back down the twisted, dusty passageway. The sounds of a running battle echo in the distance. As you approach, Lirrec draws his sword, and you strip off your cloak and dump it, readying your flame whip.

Rounding a corner, you see a bloodbath. Surt stands in the middle of hundreds of corpses, his Obsidian blade covered in blood, and the few remaining Tarastan soldiers form an improvised phalanx behind him, worn and dirty. Bodies are everywhere, ten black-clothed killers for every dead Imperial, and in the middle of it, Surt battles on an even footing with the silver-masked leader of the unknown army. The masked warrior swings a pair of long, thin swords like they were his own arms, and it's taking all Surt can handle to beat him back.

Should you intervene or let the Warrior Demon have his fun?

>>23356415
Intervene, but don't burn a spell slot, pure professionalism. Keep our distance, use the whip to strike at his legs and arms, fuck his mobility over.

>>23356415
Get the surviving soldiers out of there, but do not intervene in Surt's battle unless he's about to be beaten.
I think he appreciates the challenge.

>>23356438
>>23356434

Seconding both

Does Revulvael think that Surt would appreciate the help, or is he enjoying it as a challenge?

>>23356415
Use Combust to ignite the silver masked man.

>>23356434
>>23356438
>>23356472

Lirrec and Corrum move around the side of the battlefield, collecting the wounded and battered Tarastan soldiers and directing them away from the whirlwind of the destruction.

You yourself move near enough to Surt and the masked warrior's fight to assist if necessary, but Surt is in his own element. The Warrior Demon swings his blade with finesse, skill, and raw power. His opponent strikes like lightning, attacking everywhere, but Surt just shrugs it off with calm, reserved blocks. You're almost mesmerized by the dance of blades.

As the battle continues, the human swordsman begins to tire, and you can see the disappointment in Surt's eyes as he realizes his mortal opponent doesn't have the endless Demonic energy reserves to continue. The dance slows, and then with a sickening crunch, the human fails to dodge as Surt's blade cracks his leg in half with the flat end. As the silver mask-wearing human cries in pain and loses his balance, Surt grunts and slashes upwards, bisecting the warrior in two.

You clap as the two hunks of flesh hit the ground. Surt nods his respects to the fallen warrior, and the two of you leave the scene.
---

You're standing in the sunlight. Surt is sitting next to you, and ahead the Emperor is waving Sunfury at the sky. In the distance you see a large zeppelin approaching, bearing the Lionhead of the Tarasta Empire. It seems he was seeking the underland route to cross this mountain range in order to bypass a dangerous set of rocks, and connect to the river below, which leads to the rich inner Savage Land, previously only accessible by climbing the mountains or by expensive dirigible. Now the Emperor has his cheap passage to the river and a new highway for his people.

You still have a few things to do. First, you need to talk to anyone you want to talk to before you go, and ask the Emperor if his request is fulfilled. Then you need to find that bloody Informant. What first?

>>23356550
We never really had a chance to talk to Professor Bondsman, we should do that now.

>>23356550
Who haven't we talked to yet?

>>23356550
Could we leave them some means to contact us directly? I'd like to stay in touch with the Emperor and the princess, and it would be nice if they could call us when they catch those mages.

>>23356592

They can call again in the same manner they reached Hell to get our services the first time.

>>23356583
Bondsman, if you can find him. I imagine the others wouldn't mind seeing you off as well.

>>23356617
well at least bid farewell to the dwarf and the beskirted princess.

>>23356617
Ah, okay. I think we should speak to everyone we had this adventure with. A decent non-threatening conversation with a demon might even net us some decent PR with these guys.

Don't forget to talk the the regular soldiers. They performed admirably, especially when one considers they're *only* human.

Remember to ask the king what he will do to those mages, and flirt with Milia, perhaps asking her if she'd like to accompany you.

>>23356644
>>23356637
>>23356557

You sigh and pick yourself up. You're in your bikini again, it seems. You un-wedgie your panties and walk over to the gathered humans, the soldiers laughing and sharing a drink as you walk past. The men raise their glasses to you, and a couple of them even wolf-whistle, including Lirrec, who has warmed up to you a bit. You shoot them a devilish smile and continue on your way.

Lord Sternstone stands on a rock, looking out at the river below. You realize he lost two of his men today, and are about to say something when you feel a cold hand on your shoulder.

"I'd leave him if I were you," says Professor Bondsman, having arrived from the other end of the tunnel. The old man looks like he could blow away in a stiff breeze. You turn to him.
"So why did you two wait so long to talk to me, anyway?"
Huh?
"Um...Human craftsman," you manage, "Are you possibly...?" He grins.
"Yes, I am your secret spy in the Tarasta Empire. Why didn't you come and see me? I was wearing the..." He stops and looks at his hand. "Oops."
Huuuh?
The ancient human fishes a small gold ring out of his pocket and hurriedly slips it onto his ring finger, displaying it to you. It's a gold mark, and you feel stupid immediately. "The Deepflame Society, of course." The Deepflames were a group of rich philanthropists descended from the Demon-Worshipping armies of the Blood Cult, a famous horde of barbarians from history who amassed a great deal of wealth. Their civilized descendants still kept in touch with Hell as their sponsor of sorts.
"Indeed, I am one of the Kindred. I called you out to deliver a message to the Hell Council. I do not know what it means, only that it is important. The message, is... "Azazel Mends."

>>23356764
You don't really understand, but you thank the frail old man. Now to see off the Emperor and his sister.

As you apprach, Emperor Aren Tarasta stands deep in thought, clearly planning new schemes and great expansions. His sister sees you coming, smiles and tugs on his arm. Aren turns, and Milia loops an arm around his gauntlet. You bow low, taking care to expose your fine cleavage, which turns both siblings bright red. Cute.

"A-Ah, my Demon lady," stutters the Emperor, "You have done me great service today. I consider our debt fulfilled. You may return to your people, and should you require our aid, you need but ask." Milia too steps forwards, her eyes lowered in embarassment, but also bashfulness.
"I-I'm sorry I misjudged you, Succubus. No matter what you may do, you have done great things for our kingdom, and saved my brother from death. I don't know how to thank you, but I will endevour to do so in the future..." You smile, and step forwards, and catch her off guard by stroking her face with your hand. She does not recoil.
"My dear Princess," you say, "I'll see you again." With a kiss to the cheek, you walk away from the two, and you, Surt, and the Demonculus suddenly dissipate in a flash of light---

--you travel through Arcane Space---

--- And find yourself standing in the middle of the dais of the Hell Council's meeting chambers. Warm wind blows and your boss, Arch-Demon Corosticiul, glares at you as his shadowed compatriots arrive from the High Halls on rail-mounted chairs. Around you sit ancient Demons of prodigous size, power and intellect. One is a glittering snake, another a six-breasted Succubus Queen, another A fearsome feathered Demon birdman, another a living suit of armor. Together these creatures look upon you with poker faces. Corosticiul waves his bony hand in a lazy manner behind you, and you turn to see Surt and the Demonculus.

"Explain."

This was going to be a long night.

(stick around, more coming)

>>23356769
>>23356764

Aww we're gonna get chewed out for this one aren't we.

>>23356817
Entirely possible. Though once they get the info about the Angels pulling that mind control bug stuff they'll probably be much more focused on that than us.

And once they're done bickering and yelling we can go home and see Gepette.

Many hours and several blood coffees later, you finally emerged from the chambers. Thanks to the book, Surt's testimony, the Kindred's message and your track record, your account of the angel Cithis' activities in the closed-up underground city was verified, and you weren't reprimanded for accidentally creating a Demonculus. That said, the Council had given you a stern warning about creating new Demons willy-nilly.


You walked out into the plaza near the Soul Ministry's entrance, and sat down in a bone-carved bench under the shade of a Leechfire tree. It had been a very long day and you were exhausted.

"Master, master!" Suddenly, a high-pitched, diminutive little voice breaks your stupor, as a one-eyed bat flies down from the hazy sky. It is your messenger Familiar, Slick, and he clearly has some messages for you. The tiny creature perches on your finger, clipped-claws not hurting as they clasped your flesh. Slick's big eye glows and projects an image, and you are presented with three messages. You smile.

-------------------

Bonus Round! Revulvael has the chance to visit three people! She can go on a date to the arena with Geppete, visit Argenta at the Nightclub, or get a visitation by her mysterious mother at her home.

Your choice!

>>23356828
I'm tempted to visit this mysterious mother, I really am, but we need some Gepette time.

I choose our adorable puppet mistress.

>>23356828
All 3?

>>23356852

Bzzt! Pick one!