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[1/2]

After getting cleaned up, you all wasted no time heading back to the main Pride Demon castle. As much as you, Amanda, and Erika are concerned about Leona, them finding out something is wrong when your body doubles walk out due to fear is a bigger concern.

You head back to the castle while Ada pays the body doubles inside of the Laminian village. She was going to tip them extra for hazard pay, and you hope it’s a good hunk of change as going face to face with that Draugr bastard is enough to give anyone nightmares.

Nalika helps out with moving your luggage... or whatever was left of it out of your demolished room. Thankfully the Pride demons don’t tend to pay much attention to Wrath Demons as hired help.

“...Tell me Nalika, do demons go through clothing as... quickly as this?” you ask her as she carries out two suitcases from your room.

“Just about.” Nalika replies, adjusting her glasses with one of her free hands.

“Fort Hope is going to go broke in a year at this point...” you say muttering to yourself.

******

You’re taken off the premises and put onto a carriage with all due haste. While the demonic servants who help you are not rude, it’s clear that the tension of Lord Dio’s castle has been upped significantly since the Draugr attack. Thankfully the only survivors of the ordeal were apparently your body doubles, so feigning ignorance is the safest bet for the rest of the group while you can lie and say that you blacked out from terror. Perfect cover story.

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[2/2]

The new location you head to is a step up from the old place. It isn’t a Old World apartment, but rather a fortified stone castle that high nobles often rent out in the ‘recovered’ area of Old TO, places where people are rebuilding rather than squatting in Old World buildings. Your group has an entire tower to yourselves, all twenty floors of it. While you enjoy the rooms being bigger than before, you don’t like the sheer verticality of it. Still, better than nothing in this case.

“Oh my~, I’m surprised you all this baggage that survived the attack!” Shiva says as she carries nearly all of the bags by herself.

“Quit complaining! This is the least a freeloader like yourself can do!” Nalika yells at her mother as you continue to climb the spiral steps.

“...This room here will be your new one Lady Brooklyn.” Samantha, the Succubus Maid from Lord Dio’s castle says as she steps aside to a room with a key.

As she opens it up, you can see that the room is indeed a bit more spacy than your one in Langy castle, but that’s probably because aside from a desk, firepit, bed, chest, closet, chamberpot, and an empty bookshelf there is virtually nothing else in the room.

“Apologies for the accommodations, but we at the castle have been busy as of late.” Samantha says in apology as she hands the key over to you.

“Oh no, it’s quite already. I’m happy just to get out with my life.” you reply.

“Lady Brooklyn, may I also mention a word of warning?” Samantha asks.

“Go ahead.” you reply.

“If you bring home dates, please be more quiet when you retire to your bedchambers with them. Not only were you loud enough to the point which other people may complain, but a court mage having a bastard child would attract a lot of attention.” Samantha flatly states.

“Oh mmmyyyy~! And here I thought you were a cold fish Brooklyn!” Shiva replies.

God... Damn body doubles...

>>30656703
I see Brooklyn has yet to learn not to wear a thong.

>>30656755
"I'll make sure to be more discreet with them in the future and you can be assured that my preferred partners have no chance of getting me pregnant."

>>30656755
"I'll try not to get to carried away..... Heh, sorry about that."

It's probably not safe to talk about anything private in this place. Assume the place is bugged.
What time is it? Should we just get settled in for the night and do stuff tomorrow, of get settled in then go out?

Either now or later, we need to arrange a meeting with the Aide leader.

Also, remember the twins are probably going to stay here when we go back to Fort Hope. This is where their home and farther is. We need to make time for them.

>>30656984
>my preferred partners have no chance of getting me pregnant.
Since the body double was apparently bringing men back to the room, we shouldn't mention that we're a lesbian.

>>30657034
I said preferred we can fully pass it as being bi with female preferences

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[1/2]

"I'll try not to get too carried away... Heh, sorry about that." you say with a small nervous laugh while scratching the back of your neck.

“All part of my duties milady. Our contract now has officially come to an end. I bid you a good day Lady Brooklyn.” Samantha says as she leaves your room.

“...I thought you hated men.” Nalika quickly replies to you when Samantha leaves.

“I don’t have a phobia of them if that’s what you mean!” you reply.

“Alls well that ends well it seems then!” Shiva says walking over to your bed and putting two large leather luggage sacks on it, the bed creaking under the sudden weight.

“Brooklyn, we need to talk.” Marina says storming into the room and closing the door behind her.

“What’s wrong?” you ask.

“Arum is probably not seeing the full implications of this, but I am. Brooklyn, that Draugr after you is causing far more problems than we can handle right now.” Ada declares.

“Yea he is a pain in the a-”

“No, I mean he’s ceased to be an active thorn and has upgraded himself to axe in the shoulder. Whenever it was deliberately planned or not, the Pride Demons are now activately hunting Succubi, because they think the Ayarian Leader Rebecca pulled that stunt at the castle with him killing all other witnesses.” Marina says pointing a finger into her palm.

“A Draugr!? Oh my!” Shiva gasps in shock.

“...Oh that thing’s alive again?” Nalika asks.

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[2/2]

“Dead right now.” you reply.

“Yes, but it’s going to come back to life again. Brooklyn it was bad enough when it attacked the Laminian village, but now it just poured oil all over a house. One spark and this whole thing is going to ignite, and right now we’re living inside of a weaponsmith’s shop.” Marina replies.

“...Wait a second, doesn’t your metaphor apply here now? We only just got out from Lord Dio’s castle.” you reply.

“Lord Dio is not going to pay attention to ‘mortal nobles’ when he’s a full blown witch hunt for Succubi spies. As long as you don’t do something like summon your ‘friends’, then I doubt they’re going to pay us any heed.” Marina replies.

Hm... Ada has a point here. That Draugr has progressed beyond annoying and into threatening. If it *did* set up the actions at Lord Dio’s castle so that he framed Rebecca, then he’s a foe with wits as sharp as a razor.

>>30657456
"So what can we do, Brodin failed to kill it as it self-destructed. The only link I have to it is a lab in Chicago but that would mean moving out before finishing everything here."

>>30656755
Promise to be quiet next time and protection is used

>>30657456
Can we search for it then? What are our options? Go offensive and end it while its weak. What do we have to track these things down? Can we ask Brodin's superior for help or some advice?

>>30657456
Hire the Belkerian Duke to murder the fuck out of the guy

>>30657617
>>30657456
This looks good.
What's with the shitposter explosion?

>>30657456
"Shit... We can't just sit back and let a Succubus hunt start. Given that we're just minor 'mortal' nobles from the middle of nowhere, I doubt we're going to even have the opportunity to talk to him, and reason with him.
We need to redirect his anger! He just assumed it was Succubi because they're a known and obvious enemy.
We need to point the finger at someone else. Are their any other factions we can frame for this? Factions we don't like that is.

We're shape shifters and I have the same powers and skill-set as the Draugr. We can easy fake another Draugr attack. We can have it aided by someone. Leave witnesses that saw this other faction helping. Pride Demon witnesses that would be taken seriously.

Question is; do we know any such faction we could pin this on, or is this idea worthless?"

>>30657780
Likely worthless, the only other faction in town that we could have pinned this on is already out of the game.

>>30657774
If a Succubus kills him, that would spark a full blown Jihad!
Out plan is for the Succubi to keep a low profile and build power quietly. That might be the worst possible thing we can do right now.

>>30657617
>Can we search for it then? What are our options?
The Draugr will respawn somewhere in about 10 days or so.
So far, the only way we know to perma-kill it is by finding and ganking its master. But we have no way of doing that at the moment.

At the moment we have immediate issues we should focus on while we have a break from the Draugr.

>>30657908
Not really. She's a mercenary. If they Laminians want to use her soul sucking ability to make sure the damned thing stays dead. She can in fact kill him assuming she wins a roll off. the alternative is to somehow lure it into a prison of some sort.

>>30657957
Luring it into a prison just means it self-destructs, freeing it up to respawn

What we really need to do is get our light powers up to the same as our dark power and become the anti-Draugr to fight it openly with the support of the people in a Light vs Darkness rumble for the centuries

>>30657456

I think we should call in some favors. How about the Okarian leaders the Subotas? Or that demon duke that lost the fight to Shiva?

It's been so long, I've forgot the details on the Draugr

>>30658019
that's a terrible idea.
>>30658042
The demon duke has the ability to kill him permanently assuming she wins a dice check.

>>30658042
Can't leave the library due to some douche greed demon. One of her sister is AWOL and the other is a Laminian

[1/2]

“So what can we do, Brodin failed to kill it as it self-destructed. The only link I have to it is a lab in Chicago but that would mean moving out before finishing everything here." you reply. “...In fact where the hell is it’s body anyways?”

“The Pride Demons have it... again, since we left it back at the Celestia college. With any luck they’ll keep it behind a few more bars this time.” Marina replies. “...With any luck the Pride Demons may also try to kill it.”

“How will we know when it’s dead?” you ask.

“Arum will know, as right now we have a small collection of Laminians looking for him. Since we know it comes back to life with certainty, they’ll be watching wherever they’re keeping the body.”

“So letting the Pride Demons take care of it is your solution?” Nalika asks.

“Yes, it’s called letting your enemy handle a mutual enemy, something that you Wrath Demons must find as an alien concept.” Marina barks back.

Nalika mouth twitches slightly upon hearing that comment.

“You went too far on that Marina.” you sternly tell her.

Marina bites her lip for a second before she exhales. “Apologies, but there has been... a lot going on. I was wrong to take it out on you Lady Nalika.”

“Apology accepted.”

“...But I like punching problems in the face...” Shiva says looking a bit dejected.

"We can't just sit back and let a Succubus hunt start. Given that we're just minor 'mortal' nobles from the middle of nowhere, I doubt we're going to even have the opportunity to talk to him, and reason with him. We need to redirect his anger! He just assumed it was Succubi because they're a known and obvious enemy. We need to point the finger at someone else. Are their any other factions we can frame for this? Factions we don't like that is.” you ask.

[2/2]

“Lots. The free Envy Demons, the Clockstoppers, the undead, the Five-Tigers, Celestia...” Marina says listing names off. “Celestia may be a stretch though considering they’d find his body inside of the college surrounded by angelic golems.”

“Oh the Five-Tigers are not that threatening.” Shiva says waving her hand.

“...They took over nearly all of your land before you finally stopped them!” Nalika replies.

“Yes, but they all w-”

“THAT’S BECAUSE EVERYTHING FOR YOU GOES DOWN IN ONE HIT!” Nalika roars at Shiva.

“We're shape shifters and I have the same powers and skill-set as the Draugr. We can easy fake another Draugr attack. We can have it aided by someone. Leave witnesses that saw this other faction helping. Pride Demon witnesses that would be taken seriously.” you suggest.

“...That is a possibility. If we pretend there are multiple Draugr’s around, then it could very likely work. Right now the students from the Celestian college and spreading rumors about that thing, so manipulating the public masses can be easily done in this case.” Ada suggests. “I could also ask Arum to see if she can steal the reports any Greed Demon Necromancers make on the Draugr, assuming you don’t know a better Necromancer.”

...Well you know Madison. She’s legally able to teach on Necromancy and used to be a necromancer for decades.

>>30658042
Putting it down isn't really THAT much of a problem. It's that fact the damn thing can respawn endlessly. And the fucker that made it put defences in place against the only thing that could perma-kill it.

We need to cut it off at the source. Find the puppet master. We asked the Queens to work on something. If they get any ideas on how to track the fucker, they'll tell us.

If you can think of any other angles of investigation, we can try them too. But until we know where to look, we don't have a lot of options.

At the moment we need to focus on the more pressing issue of the impending Succubi hunt.

>>30658160
"So, the undead seems like the best faction to pin this on, could Arum get us a list of location they would hit that doesn't endanger succubi before I start impersonating my dead body?"

>>30658160
For the record I think pretending to be the Draugr is a TERRIBLE idea. It's only gotten out of several of its bad situations because of its respawn ability. We won't be able to rely on that

>>30658160
"Good, we can work with this. I need information on the factions. Who would be the easiest to frame for this? Who are the biggest dicks we won't feel bad for framing?
Who/what could we attack to frame them?

Have Arum start working the rumour mill. Work the crowds. We need people asking who could have made the thing. Have fingers pointed at groups other than the Succubi, so when we launch our own attack, people will already be thinking along the lines we need them to."

>>30658272
Most likely because it's current tactics are similar to ours, but with Draugr specifics in there. All out offensive, get the job done, nothing stands in our way. Heck, being able to revive constantly probably has some other bonus we haven't thought of beyond being able to go all on the offensive.

>>30658325
If we want the rumor mill working we need to work with the Gemelli actually

>>30658272
Yeah, that's because it gives zero shits about an exit strategy. It just barely in if it thinks it can get us with no regard for survival.

We'll pick our target a bit more carefully and have an exit strategy in place. Also, we'll have back-up helping us.

>>30658436
But surely someone will notice the drastic change in its behaviour?

It has been attacking alone and without restraint, but suddenly it's got backup and is mindful of overextending itself? That sounds like something that would be looked into

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[1/2]

"Good, we can work with this. I need information on the factions. Who would be the easiest to frame for this? Who are the biggest dicks we won't feel bad for framing? Who/what could we attack to frame them?” you ask.

“Out of all of them? The undead. It syncs up nicely with the fact that the Draugr is an undead itself, plus if it means ridding the forest the West of Fort Hope then I’m all for it.” Marina replies. “As for what to attack, I’ll need to get more information for that.”

“Good idea. Last thing we need is another Necromancer to turn an entire village.” you reply.

“We’ll need to work the crowds. We need people asking who could have made the thing. Have fingers pointed at groups other than the Succubi, so when we launch our own attack, people will already be thinking along the lines we need them to." you reply.

“The great thing about Succubi is that nearly any caste can do that well, but Ayarians would excel at it. Gemelli’s would be useful here for their informational resources. The Okarian Library is a bit lacking for recent events.” Marina replies.

“Yes that’s true isn’t it? It must be so useful being the queen of a race where literally all of your subjects have the ability to work crowds and shapeshift by default.” Shiva says.

“Better than just knowing how to punch stuff in the face all the time...” Nalika mutters under her breath.

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[2/2]

“We’ll just need to try and set this plan into motion. I’ll head to the Gemelli headquarters tomorrow then, see if I try to get some various pieces of information out of them.” Ada replies. “Plus there’s the idea of preparing as we have a Hero after you no-”

“A HERO!?” Shiva gasps in shock as she hears this, dropping all the bags to the floor.

“...Uh... Yes?” you reply.

“Oh... Oh my goodness...” Shiva exclaims, tears coming from her eyes as she walks over and gives Nalika a big hug. “My daughter! I was honestly worried about the sort of person you might side with, but to think that you sided with a person who has a HERO after them!? My little girl has grown up so fast...”

“...I want to die.” Nalika states.

"This requires a celebration Brooklyn! Your very first Hero! You're now officially a REAL Demon Lord!" Shiva replies.

...This feeling... This is probably what it feels like for your parents to congratulate you on becoming a woman.

>>30658776
"We might as well enjoy tonight after all we've had to deal with today."

>>30658684
Well, we'll be playing the part of a SECOND Draugr, so some differences would be expected.

As for explaining the back-up. That's where we need to pick out target carefully. Once we pick a faction to frame, we need to attack something (Something Pride Demon related) important.

Back-up stepping in to protect the life of respawning undead? No.

Back-up stepping to aid in destroying an important target they really want destroyed? That could happen.

>>30658776
"You know what, if this plan works and we avert a full-scale Succubus Hunt..... Yeah, we'll throw the biggest celebration we can.

Right. We need our target. If we want to do this without everything going tits up, we need to plan our attack very well. To do that, we actually need to pick a target of the attack.

Something important to the Pride Demons, but not TOO heaverly defended. Something that will leave lots of Pride Demon witnesses that can say the undead attacked.

Something that will piss off Dio enough that he'll forget all about Succubi for now."

Right.... Move out people. Go do.... Things.

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[1/2]

"You know what, if this plan works and we avert a full-scale Succubus Hunt..... Yeah, we'll throw the biggest celebration we can.” you reply. “Right. We need our target. If we want to do this without everything going bottom up, we need to plan our attack very well. To do that, we actually need to pick a target of the attack. Something important to the Pride Demons, but not TOO heavily defended. Something that will leave lots of Pride Demon witnesses that can say the undead attacked. Something that will piss off Dio enough that he'll forget all about Succubi for now."

“That’s a tall order... But I’ll see what I can do.” Ada replies to you.

“Come on Brooklyn~.” Shiva says as she grabs your wrist and begins dragging you out of the room. “The pub awaits!”

******

You probably should’ve guessed that Shiva used this as an excuse to go to the bar just in order to drink and carouse. A cheer was done for you, then nearly everyone in the group went back to drinking. Indeed quite a few people do show up, but you’d rather just be unpacking yourself.

You give a small sigh as you lay down in the corner of the room, second mug of beer in hand.

“Anything wrong, daughter?” your father asks you.

“...I swear I’m never going to get used to that.” you reply taking a snip of the drink. “Yea, rowdy parties all the time were just never really my kind of thing.”

“Yes, your mother and I didn’t often go to loud parties. Come to think of it both of us were rather quite simple come to think of it.” your father says sitting down at the corner table with you.

“You say that despite talking to Ada, who’s a rather high maintenance woman.” you reply to your father.

“Ah, so I’m caught red handed it seems?” your father asks.

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[2/2]

“I was never one for women who pretended to be victims. I always liked my girls to have some degree of self-confidence. Your mother appeared to be quite gentle, but she was very confident in her cooking skills.” your father tells you. “She even won a few cooking competitions here in Old TO.”

You stop just as you’re about to sip your drink. “Really? She didn’t talk about that.”

“Your mother also didn’t like to brag. She let success be it’s own measure of success.” your father replies.

“Compared to Ada who brags constantly?” you ask.

“Ada is... a bit unsure of herself and feels the need to inflate her accomplishments I feel. She’s still a lovely person to have a discussion with.” your father asks.

“E-excuse me! Lady Browning?” a young looking woman says walking up to you dressed in a white robe. You guess in about three seconds that she’s a Succubus.

“May I help you?” you ask.

“Um yes! I wanted to know if you’d like a discount foretelling of your future!” The young woman says. “Only 1 gold with this deal!”

“...How many times have you done this before?” your father asks.

“Oh I assure you that I’m *quite* good at it sir!” the young woman says adjusting her hat.

>>30659495
Accept, it might be someone trying to pass a message to us.

>>30659495
Sure. Turn on aura reader.

Rolled 6, 6, 5, 4 = 21

>>30659580
Second.

Even if it's not a message, it might be worth hearing.

OH... Shit. This reminds me. We'll need to cover our attack with some sort of anti-divination protection.

One Ask Fate ritual and the question "Who was behind the attack" and we'd be fucked.

We know such anti-divination mojo exists. The fucker that sent the Draugr used it to hide himself.

Send a message to the Okarian princess at the Library. If she doesn't know the magic we need. She'll know who does.

>>30659718
We have a book on that actually, we just didn't have the time to read it

>>30659778
Oh, we do? Good. Well, we should make time tonight to read it then.

If it doesn't have the info we need, or it's something we can't do yet. Then we'll get someone else to do it for us.

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“Sure thing.” you reply as you also turn on your aura sight and fish a gold coin out for her.

“Thank you so much!” the young Succubus Diviner tells you as she takes the coin, her own aura a violet (joy) colour. “May I see your hand then?”

Seeing no reason not you, you give her your hand.

She looks over your hand for a few moments, front and back before she carefully starts to trace her finger along your hand. After about 15 seconds, her face darkens as he aura turns orange (surprise/fear). “...Oh dear.”

“What’s wrong?” you ask.

“It’s not everyday I have to tell someone t-”

“You mean I’m having a grandkid!?” your father interjects.

“Dad!” you yell back.

“What?!” your father asks in return.

“I sense that... Someone very close to you is going to betray not only you, but your organization in the future.” The Diviner girl replies.

“What!?” you gasp back in shock.

“Yes, but to who or what organization I can’t say for sure. Needless to say it’s someone close to you.” The Diviner girl replies.

“...Don’t look at me.” your father replies.

You only give a sigh as you hear this. “Any other advice?”

“Hm...” The Diviner girl looks over your hand once more. “...It says here when it happens, the one who is close will feel heavy regret for the deed. But if you are careful, then you will forevermore gain an ally that you can trust with literally anything.”

>>30659879
"Thank you, this was really helpful."
Give her an extra gold coin.

>>30659879
...Leona I think. Nobody else close to us seems to be going under any stress remotely comparable to her. Plus, the trust with anything seems to tie into the Aides fundamental reliability.

Rolled 6, 6, 6, 4 = 22

>>30659960
>>30659879
Yeah, an extra gold piece won't hurt, and she just gave us extremely valuable information.

>>30659879
So, someone is going to blab, or do something to screw over our group. But they'll regret it and if we play it right, will be our ally forever, trying to make up for it.

Good to know I guess. We'll keep an eye out for stuff. Hopefully mitigate the damage if it does happen.

Thank her for the reading. We're not really feeling the party atmosphere, let's go back and read our book.

We've go Ada working her cute little ass off gathering info, we need to pull our weight too. Get studying the anti-divination magic.

>>30660031
Leona might be a possibility, Wilhelmina might be another

>>30659718
Oksana would know, most likely. We'll need to sneak out and contact her at some point.

>>30659879
"Thank you for both the advice and your abilities." Tip her a few gold more.

Maybe find Mina, see what she's been doing lately. We've had so little time for friends...

[1/2]

“Thanks for the tip. It was really helpful.” you say tossing her another gold coin.

“Thank you!” the Diviner girl says as she takes the coin and wanders off with it.

“What are you going to do now daughter?” your father asks you.

“...I think I may just head back early after I finish this drink. If I stay any longer I may do something incredibly stupid that I’ll end up regretting in the morning.” you reply thinking back to past experiences. “...Again.”

“Very well son. I’ll stay here for a while longer.” your father replies. “I was forbidden to drink mead for more than a decade, so I think I’m going to pollute my body before the night is out.”

“Ha. I’ll cheer to that!” you say tapping your father’s glass again your own before taking a solid drink.

After having your drink, you head back to the tower for the night, reading a bit about the Undead and Draugr in particular before turning in for the night.

******

You yawn as you wake up early the next morning. Checking your clock, you see that it’s about 6:30. You always were an early riser.

“May as well get some of this unpacked before we head out to the church.” you mutter as you head over to the leather sacks containing your clothing, but rather find something shocking on top of it.

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[2/2]

There is a piece of ‘clothing’ lying on top of one of your leather bags with the tag, “To the aspiring Demon Lord~! From, your friends!” You would hesitate to actually call this clothing, for if anything it’d not only cup, but accentuate your breasts, show off nearly your entire ass, and give a good view of your midriff area. At least the back is mostly covered up from shoulderblades downward. A small collar with a green orb can be seen in addition to a pair of long sleeve gloves appear to go with the set, the entire thing being purple with gold trimmings.

“...Guys... Did you r-” you stop as you feel the material. It feels surprisingly rigid for a piece of clothing. Picking it up for a closer inspection, you look it over rather carefully. After running a small bit of Aether through it and seeing it tense up even more, you come to the conclusion that this isn’t just a mere piece of clothing, but rather one made from a ‘magical material’. It looks scanty, but this thing would most likely protect your whole body.

"I'm... I'm not sure how I should feel about this..." you say to yourself while holding the armour in your hands.

... Our first Succubuss armor. I'm so proud.

>>30660636
"It will likely be super-effective against Rifter..."
Finish unpacking and get ready for that visit to the Church of Pamille.

>>30660636
We'll try it on later. Right now we have shit to do. Meet with the Aide leader, research anti-divination protection for the attack. Once Ada gets a target, we'll need to plan the attack.

Let's get on with our day.

You know that even though it’s scantily clad, you actually feel proud that you’ve gotten your first piece of Succubus armour.

“I’ll try this on later.” you say putting it down to the side for now. Right now you want to get your main clothes out so you can prepare to head out.

After getting your clothing ready, you head down to Leona’s room to see how she’s doing. You would knock, but the door is already open.

“Leona! Come on! It’s time to get up!” Erika says trying to pull the covers off of her.

“Go away... I want to go back to sleep and never wake up...” Leona pathetically mopes as she holds onto the covers.

>>30660994
"Are you sure you don't want to come to the Church of Pamille Leona? I won't force you to come but I think you should at least have a look."

>>30661057
agreed. Give her a hug.

[1/2]

"Are you sure you don't want to come to the Church of Pamille Leona? I won't force you to come but I think you should at least have a look." you tell her.

“Yes see! Remember we made a promise with Brooklyn to head over to the church!” Erika says.

“Uugghh...” Leona moans.

“Yes, now come on! Out of bed!” Erika says as this time she rips the covers off, showing Leona to be nude underneath.

You quickly avert your gaze, mainly out of reflex for the manners of seeing a noble naked. “Leona... I can understand how being depressed makes even simple things challenging, but I implore you to put on some clothing when you head to bed.”

“Hm? Oh this is normal. Leona always goes to bed naked when she’s by herself.” Erika says nonchalantly as you can hear her lift Leona up off the bed.

Huh. The things you learn.

******

“Is it this way?” you ask Wilhelmina.

“Yes, I’m certain it’s this way.” Wilhelmina replies as she walks down the busy downtown streets.

“I’m impressed they actually keep such a church open.” you reply.

“They do it because it’s the dominant Succubus faith. They’d rather put up with the church than constant rioting. That still doesn’t mean that they haven’t tried to shut it down.” Wilhelmina explains. “We’re here now.”

Looking up at the building, you expected a Grand citadel, but rather what you see instead is the cross between a sky rise building with various burtresses and towers artfully hanging off of it. A very confusing, odd, but clever use of both old world and present day engineering.

“...I expected it to be taller.” Leona states.

“Leona!” Erika tells her.

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“I thought the same too actually. But then you get in and realize they can do a lot with 30 floors. ...And space expansion magic.” Wilhelmina says as you approach the gate of the church.

Upon entering the church, you are agast of the size on the inside of it. While far smaller than the Okarian Library, it appears that the church is also using space magic to expand the dimensions of the modest first level of the skyscraper into a grand prayer hall that still makes you feel like an insect. While the Church of Celestia favored the golden colours, the church of Pamille seems to favor Purple ones. Other than that you could’ve honestly been fooled that this wasn’t a Celestian church. The stained glass, the confession booths, the altar showing what appears to be a winged female demon seeming to stand before you all with a warm, welcoming, motherly embrace. You were honestly expecting something like orgies on the floor being a Succubus church, but this is all rather well done.

“W-Welcome to the Church of P-Pamille...” A shy girl says as soon as you enter.

“...Wait. Latooni?” you ask. She was the one Miyian Succubus who helped defend you against the Miyian gang some time ago.

“...Oh yes! You’re that Okarian that was attacked by those Miyians a while back!” Latooni replies, recalling the event.

>>30661708
"My name is Brooklyn, and this is Leona, Erika and Wilhelmina. If you have the time could you show us around this is my first time here and how have you been faring since I met you last time?"

>>30661708
"It's nice to see you again. And thank you for helping us. We're here to arrange a meeting, but first, I was hoping we could get the standard tour.
Could someone show us around and tell us about the church?"

"My name is Brooklyn, and this is Leona, Erika and Wilhelmina. If you have the time could you show us around? This is our first time here.” you reply.

“Oh certainly! I’d be delighted to show you around the church!” Latooni says as he face lights up.

“How have you been faring since I met you last time?" you ask as you begin following her.

“I’ve... Been having nightmares as of recently.” Latooni replies.

“Nightmares?” you reply.

“Yes. Of that horrible Black Flame Hunter creature. When the Celestia college fell, some of the students fled here in order to avoid imprisonment from the Pride Demons. They described a horrible creature when they were leaving. It... it was a man in a robe and he carried some sort of axe staff... The students said he cared nothing but only causing as much destruction as possible. He was about to attack an entire group of unharmed students before some students said and angel stopped and saved them!” Latooni says as she wipes some growing tears from her eyes. “I mean, how heartless can one creature be?!”

>>30662145
"Well that black flame hunter is actually a draugr and I can assure you the Principality did nothing to fight it."

>>30662145
Some of my contacts in the Lamians have identified it as a Draugr a rare type of undead. They are singleminded, relentless and extremely difficult to kill permanently. I've heard the head of the fighters guild can trap souls in a manner that would probably kill it though.
>>30662212
>admitting we were there

>>30662145

"Really? I heard that a reaper stopped the black flame hunter..."

>>30662212
Seconding.

Mention we heard from some Lamians it was some sort of monstrous undead. A Dragur or something.

We can get the rumour mill turning in our direction. I assume Ada has been spreading rumours with her contacts but we can help too.

“My own contacts tell me that it was a Draugr, a sort of undead monster. The sort of thing that is monofocused with only a single goal in mind and incredibly difficult to kill. Still, I’ve heard that the head of the fighters guild has a method to trap and kill it permanently, so w-”

“Brooklyn!” Leona cries out.

“That’s not the point!” Latooni yells out at the same time. “It’s the very idea that anything living could do such a horrible thing to other living creatures!”

“Latooni, what did I tell you about lecturing guests within our church.” a soft voice to the right of you replies.

Looking over, you can see what appears to be a woman dressed in long purple robes. Rather than a church hat, you can see what appears to be a tiara on her head with noticably large sapphire inside of it. Her skin appears to be black while long flame red hair seems to flow out from behind her.

“M-Matriarch Ishtar! Forgive my transgressions!” Latooni replies almost immediately, going to one knee in front of the woman.

“Now now Latooni. The one you have to apologize to isn’t me.” Ishtar tells her.

Without hesitation, Latooni turns to you, still on one knee. “Please accept my apologies for my emotional outburst Lady Brooklyn.”

>>30662630
"It's fine Latooni, I know I can be a little cold at time."
Curtsy to Ishtar and request a meeting after we finished seeing the place.

>>30662630
"I accept your apology, Latooni. I think the one that should be apologizing was me, however. I sometimes forget that the world is more then just facts. Matriarch Ishtar, my name is Brooklyn Browning."

>>30662933
Second part:
"My friends and I don't know that much about the Church, and what they might have heard may not tell the story. We were wondering if you could explain a bit about the Church.

I was also wondering if we could speak privately, as I feel the need to confess something."
Time to connect the Church with the Queens.

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"I accept your apology, Latooni. I think the one that should be apologizing was me, however. I sometimes forget that the world is more than just facts.” you say to Latooni before turning around with a curtsy towards Ishtar. “Matriarch Ishtar, my name is Brooklyn Browning."

“Pleasure you meet you Lady Browning.” Ishtar says with a small bow of respect from herself. “I was wondering if you could explain a bit about the church itself?”

“But of course, however the church is a bit too big for one person to show themselves around it. Latooni, would you mind showing Erika and Leona around?” Ishtar asks.

“But of course Matriarch Ishtar!” Latooni replies as she walks towards Erika and Leona. “This way please, I’ll talk about the history of our religion in front of the main altar.”

“...You know that she likes you right?” Ishtar asks as Latooni takes Leona and Erika away.

“Pardon?” you reply.

“Latooni. She told me what happened after that day with the Miyian gang. It was very brave of her to do such a selfless act, against her own clan nonetheless.” Ishtar mentions. “You see, Latooni used to be a Miyian in service to Lord Dio castle. When we found her, she was abandoned like trash in the gutter. She has grown much over the years, but she was originally raised from birth to be a slave. Notice how quickly she lowered herself to one knee? Such things are difficult to get out of her, that and her near constant case of insecurity.”

>>30663362
"Well, I hope I can be a good influence on her.

>>30663362
I think we might have found out who is going to betray us...
"I do hope someday we can all live free from those restrain. Which is part of the reason I visit today. I'm sure you heard about my effort to create a safe location for succubi."

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"I do hope someday we can all live free from those restrain. Which is part of the reason I visit today. I'm sure you heard about my effort to create a safe location for succubi." you ask.

“I hear a great deal many things. Including how you were at the Celestia Church to rescue a professor Rand Browning. You both share the same last name, so I doubt this was done more than a simple job to rob Celestia of critical resources.” Ishtar replies.

“You’d be correct on that front. He’s my father. Celestia had him caged for years like an animal. If anything I let them off too easy.” you reply, your voice full of scorn.

“Now now Brooklyn. To hate is human, but to forgive is divine. Even after all of the torture that was inflicted upon her by Valvotosa, Empress Pamille still forgave him in the end out of pure sympathy.” Ishtar lectures.

...Technically you think it was because Pamille didn’t want Valvotosa crushing the entire Succubus race just yet...

>>30663362
"Matriarch, I was wondering if we could talk somewhere that is private, I...well...I might also want to talk about some personal matters, but I'm here on business as well."

>>30663910
"Perhaps, yet I would argue he did not learn his lesson..." try to get to talk to her in private.

>>30663910
"Please forgive my manners, the several attempts on my life makes me a bit on edge and my clan heritage doesn't make it easier to deal with. While I do not doubt this church is secure could we perhaps talk in a more private location?"

>>30663910

"Our little venture is gaining momentum, and I wanted to extend to you the same offer which is being extended to to others. I trust that you have somewhere private we can discuss the matter..."

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"Please forgive my manners, the several attempts on my life makes me a bit on edge and my clan heritage doesn't make it easier to deal with. While I do not doubt this church is secure could we perhaps talk in a more private location?" you ask.

“But of course, so long as you don’t send that eight armed Wrath Demon you used against Fredika after me.” Ishtar says as she leads you over to a corner of the church.

“Shiva? I’m lucky to get her off the couch.” you reply in truth. Seriously ever since you’ve seen her she’s usually just lazing around your place and eating all of your food or making weird noises in Alex’s room.

As you and Wilhelmina head over the the corner, you can see what appears to be a small break/study room. A small Old World white coffee table seems to almost flow from out of the floor while several bookshelves line claustrophobic room. Sitting in one of the chairs however appears to be a blue skinned woman with Succubi traits dressed in Purple armour full plate armour.

“...Wait. Inquiry, is that?” Wilhelmina asks pointing to the blue skinned woman.

“Yes, I’m an official Paladin for the Church of Pamille.” the Succubus says, her eyes seemingly closes as she smiles at you both, putting down her teacup. “You must be Lady Brooklyn no?”

“Exactly how many people in the church know of me?” you ask both of the women.

“Forgive me, but the security of the church is my foremost goal in life. When I heard that the Celestia college was attacked, I wanted to know who it was and what their motives were.” the woman says before her face lights up in shock. “Oh my! I’ve forgotten to introduce myself! My name is Teresa La’Archel, Vanilla Succubus Paladin of the Church of Pamille.”

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“I thought high-bloods vanished a while ago.” Wilhelmina says.

“High-bloods? You can trace your ancestry directly back to Empress Pamille?” you ask.

“Oh no! I don’t even know where to be begin since I was originally adopted. High-Blooded Succubi simply means that our skin and eye colors are a little different. It is true that blue-skinned Succubi have been declining in numbers over the centuries though.” Teresa replies.

“Since Lord Dio ramped up his aggression, I put out an immediate plea for Teresa to come here and help guard us. She’s as trustworthy as I Brooklyn, so rest easy.” Ishtar replies.

“Oh I don’t bite~, and Paladin’s of our order are not required to take any chastity vows~.” Teresa teases.

>>30664515
"Nice to meet you. A friend of mine wanted to talk to you Ishtar, I trust you don't mind if I set up the ritual?"

>>30664515
"So as I can safely assume that everything that is going to be said here will stay between us. I want to create a succubi village at the location of a village that was taken over by a necromancer and that my friends cleared out. Going right to the point, I want to prevent Rebbecca from transforming it in a listening post so I will propose Fort Hope for that purpose, while also offering it to you as a staging ground for whatever you will be planing once you meet one of the person backing me. Now if you'll let me"
Let's do this.

>>30664515
"I wanted my backers to be a part of this, if that's alright? The communication spell shouldn't take too long." Summon Janette and possibly Janine.

>>30664909
It's supposed to be a peaceful place, we're not offering it to one person to wage a holy war from.

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"Nice to meet you. A friend of mine wanted to talk to you Ishtar, I trust you don't mind if I set up the ritual?" you ask.

“Oh you Okarians and your rituals. When I was a young girl, everyone thought that all Succubi had magical capabilities.” Teresa replies.

“...How old are you exactly?” you ask Teresa.

“Now now Brooklyn, it’s rude to ask a woman what her age is~.” Teresa replies to you with a gentle smile.

...What era does she live in again?

You only give a small sigh as you begin to set up the ritual to summon Janette. During this time Teresa and Ishtar make some small talk, but for all you know they could be using hidden messages. It puts you a bit on edge, but at the same time you feel that since you’re a Succubus, they shouldn’t straight out kill you... right?

Upon summoning Janette who materializes in the room with her army uniform, she takes one look at the religious grab that Ishtar is wearing before turning towards you.

“Why did you summon me?” Janette asks, almost out of exasperation. Can’t help but wonder if she didn’t like the Church of Pamille religion that much...

>>30665254
'Because, my Lady, they should know. And one way or another, you will be working with them. That said, I will be doing most of the talking.'

>>30665254
You knew this was coming. If not today, then tomorrow. Or another day. Better to do it sooner, yes?

>>30665254
"We talked about this yesterday, I don't mind summoning the others but you're our best bet at not getting a crusade right off the bat."

>>30665254
Best order seems to be: >>30665384
>>30665642
>>30665436

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"We talked about this yesterday, I don't mind summoning the others but you're our best bet at not getting a crusade right off the bat." you reply.

“Still doesn’t mean I have to like it.” Janette replies.

“Excuse me, but I believe I’m at a loss Lady...” Ishtar says asking for Janette’s name.

Janette hesitates for a few moments before replying. “...Janette.”

Ishtar rises up from her seat in shock. “Janette!? As in Queen Janette of the Aides!?”

“...Yes... The very sa-”

“Oh Queen Janette! We have waited so long for your return!” Ishtar says immediately getting down to her hands in knees in front of Janette.

“L-Look, I’m not that good at spiritual advice. A lot of my learning of how to be a Queen came from many years of hard learning. Most the time I functioned well being bounty hunter, a mercenary, a general, or something to soak up bullets since me dying is a sin against the universe.”

“So are you saying that we from the Church of Pamille should crusade against those who repress us once more, just as you lead the crusades in the past!?” Ishtar asks with starry eyed devotion.

“NO!” Janette cries back out.

...Yea this may take a bit more work...

>>30665991
"Matriarch, how do you talk to another person? I saw that you respected others' rights to belief earlier, and didn't feel that proselytizing or forcing your views on others was a respectful way of communication.

My Queen understands that you are honoured by her presence and is greatful that you are prepared to fight but, frankly...

While I respect your beliefs, she is here to talk to YOU. If you cannot look her in the eye, you must first swear not to tell another soul about us, and then find someone who can actually show her the respect she deserves as a person. Because you currently aren't."

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>>30665991
Ishtar, a Crusade right now would only lead to our destruction. The Pride Demons are too well entrenched, too powerful, and too capable for us to simply fly out and defeat them. However, our strength can grow and their position can be weakened until we can finally strike and drive them out.

Our growing strength is proven by the return of our lost Queens. Slowly but surely we shall continue to work towards this end. But our enemies are vigilant and powerful. This is not knowledge that one should treat like a great signal fire, for that would draw enemies as well as allies and those enemies would snuff it out. No, it should be banked like warm embers in a hearth, only enough to warm our hearts and those of our most trusted.

And, if tended to, and left to smolder long enough, the Pride Demons will wake in the middle of the night to find their mansions and fortresses already burning down around them.

>>30665991
"So, as I was going to say, the Queens are alive and well even if at the moment they are stuck in an astral prison. My current task is to unite the various succubi factions of T.O. and have you prepared to repel the Pride Demon counter-attack when we decide to attack Blizzario. For that purpose I'm ready to open the door of Fort Hope so that the build up is more stealthy."

>>30665991
"Ishtar, I would like to ask you just one thing.

When the hell did a crusade against a force that is known to be more powerful and capable of causing the queens to hide against their will become a good idea?

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Ishtar, a Crusade right now would only lead to our destruction. The Pride Demons are too well entrenched, too powerful, and too capable for us to simply fly out and defeat them. However, our strength can grow and their position can be weakened until we can finally strike and drive them out. Our growing strength is proven by the return of our lost Queens. Slowly but surely we shall continue to work towards this end. But our enemies are vigilant and powerful. This is not knowledge that one should treat like a great signal fire, for that would draw enemies as well as allies and those enemies would snuff it out. No, it should be banked like warm embers in a hearth, only enough to warm our hearts and those of our most trusted.” you say making a few small darkness embers inside of the palm of your hand, before rapidly making it grow into a flame of darkness in your had. “And, if tended to, and left to smolder long enough, the Pride Demons will wake in the middle of the night to find their mansions and fortresses already burning down around them.”

“Lady Brooklyn is right about this Matriarch Ishtar. It’s true I’ve taken down Pride Demon entrenchments with careful planning, but an attack right now when they not only have their defenses up, but are actively hunting down Succubi.” Teresa explains.

“Fredrika is willing to fight again once more and you’re here. That alone should give us enough fighting power, should it not?” Ishtar asks.

Teresa’s shakes her head. “The exit of Fredrika’s retirement was not something she did quietly nor publicly. While it was something she had to do in order to end the political infighting in both the Fighter’s Guild and the Belkarian clan. Not only that, but the demon was *strong enough to beat Fredrika* will have most certainly reached Articus ears.”

“Articus has rarely ever done anything that didn’t directly involve his ice fort or the weather.” Ishtar says waving off Teresa’s concerns.

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“I have strong reason to believe that Articus will call in Dis to handle the matter personally.” Teresa bluntly states.

Wilhelmina, Janette, and Ishtar all drop their jaws at once upon hearing this.

“Oh that’s it! We’re dead! We’re all so dead! Dead women are we!” Wilhelmina says having a small meltdown.

“...Who’s Dis?” you ask.

“Dis was one of Valvotosa’s generals responsible for the Earth invasion. You didn’t see him in Miyu’s memory as he was responsible for the fight on Pandora. Needless to say he’s a demon who revels in cruelty and is obscenely strong, enough to give Purple a run for her money. He’s known to use both Light and Dark magic.” Janette explains.

“...So what you’re saying is that is if he appears, we’re fucked.” you reply.

“Essentially.” Janette replies.

“WE’RE DOOMED!” Wilhelmina cries out.

“How the hell are we going to beat something like that!?” Ishtar demands.

“If it comes down to it, I’m certain I could at least hold Dis off, but actually beating him in a fight is something I’m unsure of.” Teresa replies.

“Don’t, he’ll rip you apart. In all likelihood he’ll only be focused on the big, strong targets. He likes to ignore the ‘small fry’, so use that to your advantage. So long as the Subota’s, Fredika, or our Paladin here don’t make an offensive move, the only thing he serves as is a piece that’s waiting to be moved. ...IF he shows up at all.”

>>30666766
"My luck tell me he will come, it seems like fate has decided that nothing I'm involved with will be easy. On that note I'd like to talk about the succubus village."

Alright, gonna head to bed now.

Tomorrow I'll be running the thread right up until I need to go to class, after which I'll need to call it as I have some other schoolwork left to do.

Night everyone!

>>30666766

"so our best bet would be to down-play everything. Convince him that nothing here is worth his time... Though if the 'village' project works well, we could distribute ourselves away from Old TO, which should make preparations easier to do without drawing any attention..."

>>30666766
"Oh, well, this isn't so bad then. Yes, I don't even need to change my plans.
Dio's gearing up for his little Succubus Hunt because he thinks we're responsible for the Draugr attacks. I'm already making plans to shift the blame onto someone more deserving.
If he thinks 'Little Nobodys' are below his attention, as long as the Pride Demons' attention is focused somewhere else, and we keep a low profile, he shouldn't even bother us."

Tell them about the Succubus village. Building a power base at Fort Hope, away from the attention of the Pride Demons. Make sure to stress that we're building up our forces /quietly/. Have the Queens issue Direct Orders to follow our instructions if need be.

But assure her that the Crusade is coming. But it will happen at a time of our choosing. We we are at our strongest and the Pride Demons have been undermined and weakened.

>>30666766
Or, if he does make a move, Teresa, Fredika and the wandering Sutoba will ambush and gank him.

>>30670656
if he does show up, just tell shiva the he called her a "fat lazy bum who couldn't win a fight against a fly". problem solved if she's as powerful as i suspect.

>>30670691
Well yes the "throw shiva at the problem" is always an option.

>>30670656
If a Succubus is implicated in his death, we're basically fucked. If we gank him quietly, without showing Succubi involvement, it would demand an investigation. Would still be dangerous.

>>30670691
>>30670712
Having a Wrath Demon with no Succubi affiliation gank him would be fine for us, but I doubt Shiva would go for it.
She's flat out stated she doesn't want to get involved with any high level political bullshit and had no intention of fighting our war for us.

She's basically just on vacation, having some fun. She's done what she has so far, because it has no political fall-out for her or her Empire and it's a good laugh.

Ganking someone that high ranked would have political fall-out for the Wrath Demon Empire.

I mean... It couldn't hurt to ask her "Hey, feel like killing that guy?" But we can't base our plans on it. We need a plan in place to deal with things on our own.

Pointing the Pride Demons at someone else by framing the Undead, then keeping a low profile and building our forces, seems like the best plan for now.

>>30670805
if we want Shiva to help out we should convince her that paperwork is boring (not hard) and that she should consider hiring out of work succubi to manage it for her rather than rely on wrath demons who don't want to do it anyway. Said well paid succubi would of course donate to the church of Pamille heavily to help their less fortunate brethren, that's only to be expected. If the Church then uses that money to hire large numbers of wrath demon mercenaries, well, I fail to see how that's Shiva's fault. She just hired some accountants.

>>30671487
That options isn't available until we actually conquer our quarter of earth though.

>>30671557
I thought about building it in as a cover story "I came here to hire some cheap accountants, then got sidetracked and picked a fight with a demon duke for fun."

>>30671583
I'm saying that there is no way the Pride demon won't see it for what it is.
>Fredrika back to her job
>More unity amongst the succubus faction than there has been in decades if not century
then you add
>Church of Pamille suddenly start hiring large amount of wrath demon mercenary
It's about as transparent as you can be and it will likely lead to preemptive crack down

>>30671641
Oh, I didn't suggest they hire the mercs immediately, or for that matter openly. The first notice they should have of us hiring mercs is when said mercs kick in the door.

>>30671665

or even better, when Their mercs start chopping up Their guys....

Unless Wrath Demon Mercs operate on 'contractual honour' rather than 'better pay for a better fight' kind of thing...

>>30671665
Except the fact that any merc we're hiring not from this part of earth need to pass through the portal. And I'm sure the church has the mean to hire those already here should the be available.

>>30671726
Doesn't mean she shouldn't hire out of work succubi when there still are out of work succubi. The sooner she hires them the more time they have to build up resources. Or to "embezzle" them is Shiva wants additional deniability.

>>30671726
Maybe. This isn't something to worry about now anyway.

Hiring and smuggling in mercs to bolster our own forces is years off yet.

>>30671759
Except that would cause political problem with the Pride Demon which Shiva doesn't want.

>>30671780
From what I understand, she would rather the Succubi win, but is unwilling to commit until she believes they can win. France and the US in the revolutionary war was used as an analogy. We should expect her to provide deniable support but not commit until she thinks we can win.

>>30671759
This could work. There was talk of getting Succubi passports to the Wrath Demon Empire to cover the relocation.
We can't just have the population move to Fort Hope with no cover story. Someone will notice the shrinking numbers and start asking questions.

However, if we fake them travelling to another realm... No reason some couldn't go for real. If some Succubi want to move to the Wrath Demon Empire and Shiva is interested in hiring them for admin work Wrath Demons hate... Win Win.

>>30671804
I what? France flat out helped the US during the revolution starting 1778.

>>30671893
right, but they initially did so in a limited and deniable fashion because they weren't sure if the colonists could go the distance.

>>30671923
Initially is what 1776? So they covertly sent help 1 year at the start of the conflict while fighting 6. Shiva even if she agrees to covertly lend us deniable assets (material in that case) won't fight against the pride demons or bring the Wrath demon empire into a war, she flat out told us so.

>>30672044

Awake now. Gimme a few minutes to make some food then I'll update

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[1/2]


"Oh, well, this isn't so bad then. Yes, I don't even need to change my plans. Dio's gearing up for his little Succubus Hunt because he thinks we're responsible for the Draugr attacks. I'm already making plans to shift the blame onto someone more deserving.” you reply. “If he thinks 'Little Nobodys' are below his attention, as long as the Pride Demons' attention is focused somewhere else, and we keep a low profile, he shouldn't even bother us."

“That is a risky gambit.” Teresa warns.

“One that’d also pay off quite handsomely if it goes off.” Janette replies. “Lamia and Janine were better suited for those distractionary attacks, but there’s no question they prove effective.”

“You mean the rest of the Queen’s are there too!?” Ishtar asks.

“Yes, and while we’re friends I’m quite sick of them of the moment...” Janette replies.

“Shall we begin the crusade against the other Queen’s!?” Ishtar asks, misinterpreting Janette.

“STOP THINKING I WANT CRUSADES!” Janette barks back.

“Building up a crusade is going to be next to impossible now. The Pride Demons are cracking down on paper trails for supplies, so any sort of wide scale armament or training of troops is certainly going to be noticed by anyone except maybe the Laminians.” Teresa replies.

“If they’re in Old TO.” you reply. “I have two plans going on at the moment. The first one of them is having a small number of Succubi go over to a small village to the North of here. It’s remote, away from Pride Demon eyes, and most importantly the Pride Demon’s don’t know it exists and don’t care so long as it keeps collecting a tieth. I was originally going to sent Miyians and Ayarians there, but there are a few problems with that...”

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“You talked to Rebecca about the plan didn’t you?” Teresa asks.

“Yup.” you reply. “I want the outpost to be a sanctuary, not a listening post.”

“There’s also the fact that the plan is your idea.” Ishtar states.

“...Yes and?” you reply.

“You’re an Okarian.” Ishtar replies.

“...Yes a-...Oh...” you reply getting what Ishtar means.

“Yes. The Miyians will probably not be on board with the plan due to their little gang war.” Ishtar states. “I can vouch for you, as my influence is quite broad. If that doesn't work... Well there are plenty of Miyians loyal to the church who will gladly go anyways.”

Well I feel fucking stupid. Here I was wondering why there were no posts when Catchpa stopped 2/2

>>30673524
"My little stunt with the church at least prove that I'm not a Celestian spy, as for the listening outpost I was planning on having Fort Hope house it. So right now what I have left to do is to prove that I want to end the feud between the Okarians and Miyans before the meeting."

"My little stunt with the church at least prove that I'm not a Celestian spy, as for the listening outpost I was planning on having Fort Hope house it. So right now what I have left to do is to prove that I want to end the feud between the Okarians and Miyans before the meeting." you reply.

“I think you’re underestimating how deeply their hatred runs Brooklyn.” Teresa warns replies. “Beck lost her own lover at the hands of Okarians, so they’re no telling what lengths she’ll go to just to disagree with you.”

“In such a case we’ll need to make it so that any reason for objecting to the plan is going to make her look insane.” Ishtar replies.

“Most people consider Miyians insane anyways, even amongst their own kind. That shouldn’t be that hard to do.” Janette replies.

“Still do you have any way to end this feud Brooklyn? This feud has been ongoing for generations. The only thing that made them unite forces, even briefly, was when all of Canada was endangered during the Science Lord Wars.” Teresa asks. "We may get them to agree to sending Miyians to the village, but actually cooperating with us is going to be very tricky indeed."

>>30673524
"Having some Miyians loyal to the church go first, so they can vouch for the place and send back their approval should help.
But I'm also planning a meeting with the Miyian leader. (I totally forgot when that was) Hopefully we can build some good will between the groups.

But more than that.... This whole Succubus feud seems suspicious to me. An Okarian Lord that was pushing for peace... The previous Miyian leader and Dean of their University, BOTH assassinated by the other side?
That just seems way to perfect. I'd be shocked if someone wasn't intentionally provoking this conflict.
I'm planning to conduct a few rituals to divine the truth about that. Hopefully, whoever assassinated the Miyian Dean won't have taken great precautions against magic. Since Miyians can't use it. It might be a dead end, but I can give it a try. At least, I can spread some doubt, cause people to question the cause of this conflict."

Also, tell them about Fort Hope. Mention building our forces there, away from the Pride Demons notice.

>>30673726
"Other than finding the root of the problem I have no idea really, I could always use a ritual to ask fate but I'm pretty sure whoever did it covered his or her track and it was likely done beforehand anyways."

>>30673823
>
But more than that.... This whole Succubus feud seems suspicious to me. An Okarian Lord that was pushing for peace... The previous Miyian leader and Dean of their University, BOTH assassinated by the other side?
>That just seems way to perfect. I'd be shocked if someone wasn't intentionally provoking this conflict.

Oh yeah its totally bullshit, and the only way its going to end is when we find damning evidence of the conspiracy that started it, but fuck if I know where to start looking for leads

“This whole Succubus feud seems suspicious to me. An Okarian Lord that was pushing for peace... The previous Miyian leader and Dean of their University, BOTH assassinated by the other side? That just seems way too perfect. I'd be shocked if someone wasn't intentionally provoking this conflict.” you reply. “I'm planning to conduct a few rituals to divine the truth about that. Hopefully, whoever assassinated the Miyian Dean won't have taken great precautions against magic. Since Miyians can't use it. It might be a dead end, but I can give it a try. At least, I can spread some doubt, cause people to question the cause of this conflict."

“It’s not only the Miyians who tried to investigate this Brooklyn, but also the Okarians. There’s no question that the one who did the crime was indeed a Miyian. She was caught at the scene then torn apart by Okarians centuries ago. The Subota’s want it to end, but the social stigma of Okarians going against their Queen at times like this has always been popular. It was later on that the Okarians did a revenge kill against the Miyian dean, which further sparked the bloodshed in this war.”

"Having some Miyians loyal to the church go first, so they can vouch for the place and send back their approval should help.” you reply.

“But of course. I will be happy to help end this horrible conflict with least loss of life. At the very least, I can provide a safe and neutral ground for the discussions to take place.” Ishtar comments.

“Perfect. I'm also planning a meeting with all the leaders to talk about future events. Hopefully we can build some good will between the groups during this time.” you reply. “We don’t have an exact date nailed down, but we’re thinking sometime this Friday at the very least.”

“Hm... Putting all of the Succubi heads in one location worries me.” Teresa says with a look of concern on her face.

>>30674052
I thought most of them were sending ambassadors. I mean, the Sutoba's can't leave the library, the Belkerian is bedridden, and the Miyan won't go.

>>30673890
>fuck if I know where to start looking for leads

The only thing I can think of is the Ask Fate ritual and other forms of divination.
The Miyians can't use magic, so there's a chance (a small one) that when they were covering their tracks, they focused on things the Miyians specialised in, and neglected things they can't do.

Even if we can't prove anything. Getting people to start thinking about how massively suspicious it is can't hurt. We need to sew doubt about the cause of this conflict.

>>30674052
"I can likely attempt to make a modified version of the contact ritual so that way we'd be able to have this meeting without the head being physically there. It could take some time as rituals aren't my forte."

>>30674083

Correction, the Laminian Subota can leave just fine. She's an ambassador of sorts yes, but the only reason she's banned from a leader position is that she's a Laminian, not an Okarian.

>>30674132
Still does mean that the regents aren't all in one place. I'm not sure that anyone actually agreed to show up in person.

>>30674052
>There’s no question that the one who did the crime was indeed a Miyian

Yes, the Okarians investigated the murder of the OKARIAN Lord. But did they investigate the murder of the Miyian?

If I was going to kill another Okarian, I'd take every precaution against magical detection.

But if I was going to kill a Miyian I'd need to take very different precautions. I might even skimp on magical defences.

>>30674083
>>30674126
"Yes, putting all the faction leaders in the same place, at the same time, is sort of asking for trouble.
We'll work out some sort of communication ritual. Or maybe use of trusted ambassadors. Something like that."

>>30674052
Getting the Miyan leadership on our side would help. That will happen eventually. Or Miyu will run out of patience and fire whoever is still supporting the war.

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"Yes, putting all the faction leaders in the same place, at the same time, is sort of asking for trouble. We'll work out some sort of communication ritual. Or maybe use of trusted ambassadors. Something like that." you reply.

“That’s good if you’re unable to make it, but sending the leaders themselves speaks volumes more than just using a communication ritual or sending an Ambassador. Going there yourself means that you have a personal and vested interest to see a plan like this succeed.” Ishtar speaks. “It’s something that all leaders use.”

“Ishtar speaks the truth. I may not know much on social contracts, but usually there was a big difference when we called a leader of an organization compared to sending a lacky. Often sending a lacky means two things. Either they’re too busy with other things they consider more pressing at the moment or they are too paranoid to show up in person.” Janette replies.

“Your kind words shower me with joy Pope Janette.” Ishtar replies.

Janette can only give a small groan in response.

“...Well I can certainly say it would speak volumes on the message, I can’t help but be worried with the security risk here.” Teresa explains.

“Then that’s why we’ll organize you and some others for security matters.” Ishtar says nodding towards Teresa.

“I’ll do my best.” Teresa replies, though a hint of concern lies in her voice.

>>30674550
"Is there anything bothering you Teresa? If it's withing my mean to help I'll be glad to do so."

>>30674665
this

"Is there anything bothering you Teresa? If it's within my power to help I'll be glad to do so." you reply.

“...P-Pardon? O-Oh no! Trust me Brooklyn, you’ve done more than I ever thought possible. Behind the messenger of the Queen’s themselves, and delivering the safety is news enough. My main concern however is protection, and if the church is to take part in protecting this meeting, then such a thing is my responsibility.” Teresa replies.

“I’d suggest having the meeting in a hardened bunker, but since the Pride Demons are gathering their local forces and even calling in a few favors to get reinforcements in, you might as well distribute flyers asking for everyone to attack the bunker.” Janette replies. “Stealth seems to be key in this endevour.”

“That shouldn’t be too hard to do then. I should able to get everyone ready for the meeting by Wednesday, which gives us all ample time to prepare as well.” Ishtar states.

Hm... It’s Saturday now. That’d give you some time to wrap up some loose ends you may have remaining, if any.

(Anything else you wish to ask?)

>>30674930
I've got nothing. As for loose ends, we still haven't bedded the twins.

>>30674930
>loose ends
It would be best to frame the undead and get the Pride Demons off our back before we did stuff like this. Not to mention the fact that Succubi will be hunted, killed, captured and enslaved if we drag our feet on this.

We need to sort out some anti-divination protection to cover our tracks. Having our people shape-shift into something else won't do shit if any investigation reveals they were really Succubi.

Make sure Ishtar knows NO CRUSADES. Bitch loves her Crusades. We're not ready for that yet. Low profile is our mission for now.

Can't think of anything else to do here. Let's wrap things up and get a move on.

>>30675005
>As for loose ends, we still haven't bedded the twins.
This is a tragedy we must rectify

>>30675005
>>30675062
Yeah, we have GOT to make time for the twins at some point.

>>30674930
>loose end
Assuming character page is up to date let's get some aether

>>30675173
>>30674930
>get some aether
That's something. Ask if they know a good place to feed. We've been running on a half tank ever since we got here.

>>30674550
"Ishtar, I can see you really feel that you want to rise to the Queens' call. I believe that Fort Hope could always use more mercenaries, and I'll see if I can't get someone to contact you about the possibility. Just remember that the companies there are subjected to scrutiny, even if it is light."

>>30675200
The last time we had a debate with Nalika, we gained quite a bit. Generally, there are basic options and there are options we put some thought into. In an enclosed space, engaging others in something emotional is what we need.

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Hm... There are still a few things you need to do. For one you need to frame the Draugr and try to get that damn thing off of your back so it becomes someone else’s problems.

...There’s also the twins date. You’ve been meaning to get to that for a while.

...Oh there’s that damn Gemelli Queen. OK, you have a bit of things to do.

“I think I’m about out of things to say.” you reply. “I think Wilhelmina and I will take our leave now.”

“...What?” Janette asks.

“Very well. We’ll discuss possible security matters with Janette in the meantime.” Teresa says.

“We’ll contact you if we have any questions Brooklyn. ...But now, let’s continue our... chat Pope Janette...” Ishtar says with a grin on her face.

“NO BROOKLYN! DON’T LEAVE ME!” Janette pleads with you.

“Bye Janette~.” you say with a wave as you walk out of the room, leaving her with Ishtar.

“Inquiry, was that wise.” Wilhelmina asks.

“I’m sure she’ll be fine.” you reply. “You also seem calmer too.”

“My heart still feels as if it’d explode out of my chest.” Wilhelmina says.

“NO! No stop that!” Leona’s voice can be heard crying out.

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Upon hearing this, you quickly rush over to where you heard the voice. Leona is in tears, trying her best to push away a praying Latooni on the ground, while Latooni does her best to ignore her.

“...What’s going on?” you ask a freaked out Erika.

“Latooni was showing us around the place before we got to the altar. I tried to encourage Leona to talk, mentioning that she was quite pious but was having a crisis of faith. When Latooni asked, Leona broke down crying saying how she was excommunicated from the Celestian Church just the other day, especially when that was all she had going for her and had little interest in joining ‘a religion for immoral whores’. Then Latooni said she’d fix that, and is now... actually praying to Celestia in order to ask forgiveness for Leona.” Erika explains.

“...Wait, she’s *actually* praying to Celestia so that they’d ‘forgive’ Leona?” you ask.

“I’m aware of how crazy that sounds.” Erika replies.

“STOP IT! Just... NO!” Leona says, no trying to shove a kneeling Latooni aside, but Latooni remains on the ground deep in prayer.

>>30675624

we should ask Leona what she is doing. get her to tell us why Latooni praying for Leona's forgiveness is bad...

>>30675624
"Latooni, that's a nice thought, but you don't need to do that. Leona doesn't need forgiveness. She didn't do anything wrong.
She just needs to be reminded she's a wonderful person with a lot more going for her than Celestia."

Look at Leona as we say this.

"Please Leona. You were a nice person and tried to do good things before you ever learned about Celestia, didn't you?
You still care about people and want to help them even now, don't you?
You don't need Celestia to be a good person. Please, calm down."

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“Why is Latooni asking for your forgiveness a bad thing?” you ask Leona.

“I... I just can’t have someone else asking for my own forgiveness! Latooni... I only just met her but I can tell that she’s a good soul! Anything involving Celestia is going to end up bad for her, and I don’t want her to be harmed by it!” Leona exclaims.

“Leona, I too had someone I valued above all else toss me aside like trash.” Latooni explains. “Since my birth I was raised as a maid and blacksmith for a noble demon in New TO. I didn’t question anything, but rather embraced the stability and certainty within my own life. Then one day I thought that my ex-master would enjoy an improvement to his family weapon. I finished the weapon along with the improvements, carrying the blade to him in what should’ve been one of the happiest days in my life. Instead I was beaten, insulted, then cast out into the New TO streets left to die. Everything in my life was turned around over one thing I thought was for the better. I won’t lie, even now there are times that I regret doing what I did, but one cannot change what has already been done.”

Leona looks stunned by this explanation coming from Latooni. You yourself cannot believe that someone would throw out someone like that, someone who worshipped you, like a piece of garbage.

“What I’m saying Leona is that I understand exactly how you feel. I know the pain and uncertainity you feel now all too well. But I want you to know that you are not alone in the world. There are not others who are just like, but also your cherished friends who’d gladly help you out in your time of need. The only thing you need to do is let them.” Latooni exclaims.

>>30676036

wait and see how Leona reacts. We are here if she needs us, that is all we can do...

>>30676036
"She's right I brought you into this and I'll make sure you're doing fine."

>>30676036
"Leona, I didn't bring you here to change your faith, I came here to show you that there is so much more for you to experience.

All faiths have similarities, and I think you could benefit from learning what Pamille could teach you. Within what you're comfortable learning, of course."

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You decide to remain silent for the moment, waiting just behind Leona in case she needs anything.

Without wasting a single moment, Leona simply breaks down and cries, seeming to collapse directly onto Latooni. Latooni stumbles for a second due to Leona being bigger than her, but she quickly recollects herself and stroke the back on Leona’s crying head.

“There there... Let it all out...” Latooni reassures Leona as she caresses back back of her head.

Looking over to Erika, you can see that she’s crying as well, even through the bandana.

“I’m... I’m so happy right now. I... I was always worried about how Leona would never find another friend who understood her. I was her cousin, but at times I didn’t know how she felt in matters like these. But now... She finally found someone who actually understands...” Erika says sobbing, her fingers rubbing over her bandana.

(Alright, time for class now. Next week we’ll hopefully begin on time again!)

Oh! Yes!

Also what do you want to do for the rest of the day? It's Saturday morning still, so the day is still young. We'll start that off on what to do next thread.

>>30676676
Let's try to catch up with the twins. We still need to give a shot at being them.

>>30676676
We need to start planning for the Draugr, we need to meet the Gemelli leader, and we need to investigate the Miyian/Okarian conflict for big story stuff.

We may want to talk to Mina, the twins were brought up, Nalika is always around, Wilhelmina could be someone to talk to, not sure if we've done much with Erika, Amanda's, around...Kyon...exists...

>>30676700
agreed

>>30676733

And the three adventurers.

>>30676801
I'd like to spend time with Mina, talk with Nalika and share some thoughts with her, and finally talk with Amanda.