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>>33340580
Current Date and Time: Early morning on October 8th, 1952PC

>You have 1 FR point

Somebody just entered your room. No, scratch that, somebody just literally appeared in your room without otherwise entering it normally.

It’s probably a fox, you decide as you do your best not to appear awake. You hadn’t caught the actual sensation of the power used to teleport the intruder into your room, though it did wake you up, but teleportation was a capability of foxes. If it was a fox, that meant this was either a prank by one of your visitors (or subject, in the case of Taira) or an assassin from Pharos.

The latter idea had been something Tsucchi had been needling you about for the last two days once she found out that a large vessel from Pharos had visited Vitria while you were busy campaigning. It had been during a special festival you had missed but the city had enjoyed it and trade had flourished, so you didn’t mind. Tsucchi did, however. So now you had to wonder if somebody was here to kill you.

If they were, they were taking their dear sweet time. You’d been lying in wait for a few minutes now and they hadn’t moved. Nobody else was in the room as Undine was in Vitria with Sarah and Gnome was meditating by the Source each night to recover her power from a day of construction activity (though she still found time to ask for massages and other fun).

With your unknown intruder doing nothing, that just leaves the initiative to you. You…

>1. Go back to sleep.
>2. Greet them loudly.
>3. Lie awake until they do something.
>4. Attack
>5. Custom

>>33340590
>>2. Greet them loudly.

>>33340590
>2. Greet them loudly.

I mean it would seem pretty obvious to be Karise, so this'll be interesting.

>>33340590
"Hello miss or mister unknown intruder, how may I help you?"

>>33340590
"Hello there. What brings you here?"

Captcha
>wsieemo cumming

>>33340590
Open one eye
"well if your going to take all night, feel free to make use of the chair over there"
wave hand in direction of chair

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>2.

“There’s chairs in the room if you feel the need to wait for some time,” you say, not looking at your intruder.

There’s a brief pause before your intruder begins to move. They make no noise but you can sense they’re taking the offered seat. You’re surprised that your intruder managed to cross the room and take a seat without making any noise – you’re able to sense where they are by the magic lingering in them. Given foxes tend to be rather noisy, particularly with their tails, this either isn’t a fox or is a particularly skilled one.

After several minutes you give in and turn over to face the intruder, greeting them with, “Well, what can I do for you? And was it really so hard to just knock before entering?”

“I don’t usually knock on doors so my skills are a little rusty,” comes the reply. The voice is low but distinctly feminine, which makes sense as you doubt any man could have a chest as large as this fox’s – Gnome had competition. “Plus, you usually want your spymaster to be able to come and go without disturbing things.”

“You must be Karise, then,” you say, sitting up as you looked her over more.

“And you must be the Imperator,” she says, looking you up and down in return. “I think I see what Tsucchi meant by her description of you.”

You cock an eyebrow at that but she ignores it. Karise is a tall and very well-built fox, with six snow-white tails held perfectly still around her body. A pixie cut surrounds her ears, pricked up and clearly alert. She wears what you think is a rather expensive black and violet tunic and is returning your gaze quite steadily. She appears to be waiting for you to say or do something.

>What do you do or say?

>>33341042
>Offer her a drink

>>33341042
"well, i accepted the offer with you in it, now tell me what you want."

>>33341042

Get down to the business, she clearly wants something in exchange for being your spymaster

>>33341042

Get up and go about the morning ritual. Wait for her to say something or become immensely uncomfortable.

Also just going to bring up something I thought was hilarious.

>"Both of your previous flames, Taira and Karise"


>>33341042
"You came here rather quickly."

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>>33341271
I assume you mean get cleaned up and dressed? Because morning ritual put like that made me think of something else.

>>33341298
Poor Vad. Such are the travails of lurking about the halls of the rich and powerful.

>>33341330

Yeah that is what I meant.

>Because morning ritual put like that made me think of something else.

You've been writing too much smut lately man.

>>33341042
"Well, I suppose we should start with the pleasantries before I ask whether you've already assessed the state of affairs here and are ready to make recommendations. Would you care for any food, refreshments or small talk? Or would you rather dive in?"

Also, might as well put some actual pants on (shirt optional) since it seems we're going to be up awhile.

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>>33341363
Nah. I was just remembering an old quest where the MC had that particular morning ritual. I think it was the comment about her getting uncomfortable that made me think of it.

>get ready for business

You want to get down to business but a man’s first duty is to his body. Stretches, bathing, beard trimming – can’t skip a thing if you want to appear the Imperator. Of course, no need to be impolite while doing so.

“Would you like a drink? Or some breakfast? There’s a room nearby serving a buffet breakfast,” you say as you stand up and begin some morning stretches.

You don’t get a reply and continue to stretch for several minutes. Karise appears quite content to sit and watch, which is odd in its own way. If she’s happy to stay here then you’ll step into the adjoining bathroom and get ready. It’s not until you’re settled in the bath that you realise that she followed you in.

“Really? Is this necessary?” you ask.

“There’s no reason we can’t talk shop like this,” she says, an impish smile on her face. “And I can do this all I like – I’m engaged so there’s no need to worry about my intentions.”

“Generally having a fiancé draws the exact opposite conclusion,” you mutter. “Well, you got here fast. Any particular reason?”

“I wanted to judge your character and see your opinion of my intentions before bringing my people under your rule,” she says simply. “That and I want to swear my fealty to you before we get started on the serious matters.”

Straightforward enough, you think. Karise doesn’t have much to say as you finish the rest of your morning ablutions and you try not to pay too much attention to the way she offers you a towel. This sort of servitude isn’t what you’re looking for in a spymaster, you think.

>continued

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>>33341724
Finally, you step into the dining room, finding Taira lurking in it with three plates of food she appears to be keeping warm.

“Ah, there you are,” she says, smiling brightly at you. “I shooed the rest out when I sensed Karise was around. Have some morning fun, did you? It’s a good way to introduce yourself to a new master.”

You barely catch the muttered ‘For you, maybe’ from Karise before she states loudly, “Hello, Taira. You’ve certainly caused quite the fuss in the alliance reappearing like this. You wouldn’t be willing to leave us alone, would you?”

Taira continues to beam at the two of you. “I serve Talon so it makes sense that I’m here for any negotiations between the two of you.”

Karise frowns. “So it is true. You’ve sworn fealty to him?”

“Of course. He’s quite suitable. You intend on the same, right?”

Nodding, Karise looks at you, then back at Taira. You suspect she’s waiting for you to make a decision on Taira’s presence.

“Any particular reason you don’t appreciate Taira being here?” you ask simply.

“It would be… embarrassing for her to watch me do the Garrotte clan’s process for swearing fealty,” Karise says with reluctance, not meeting your eyes for the first time in a conversation. “The matters I would talk about are sensitive but if you trust her…”

You…

>1. Let Taira stay.
>2. Shoo Taira away.
>3. Custom

>>33341750
>1. Let Taira stay.

>>33341750
>>1. Let Taira stay.

>>33341750
>2. Shoo Taira away.

>>33341750
inb4 sex is the ritual
>1. Let Taira stay.

>>33341750
>2. Shoo Taira away.

>>33341979
God I hope not.

>>33341750
2

>>33341750
>mfw I missed the start
>mfw its around 9am where asp lives
>mfw karise is engaged
>mfw I don't have a face
>1. Let Taira stay.

>>33341750
>1 Let Taira stay.

>>33341750
>1. Let Taira stay.

>>33341724
>Nah. I was just remembering an old quest where the MC had that particular morning ritual. I think it was the comment about her getting uncomfortable that made me think of it.

Haha your talking about the original maid quest and yeah its what I think of when anyone mentions morning rituals.

>>33341750
>1. Let Taira stay.
But tell her to be good and secrets must be kept.

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>1

“I trust her,” you say simply and leave the matter at that.

Karise nods and you shortly run through a simple swearing of fealty, much as you did with Taira. Then things get a little odd.

“You already swore fealty, why do you need to do it again?” you ask as Karise holds up a dagger and asks for your hand. Taira looks amused so you guess it’s safe but you’re still wary. You don’t appreciate people holding sharp objects against you.

“Because my fealty to you will be unquestionable if I swear it in both your style and my clan’s,” she says.

“Taira didn’t use her clan’s,” you say.

“I technically don’t have a clan as I abandoned it,” Taira chirps, leaving you without somewhere to back up to.

You sigh and let Karise do her thing – which turns out to be a simple prick of your finger before she laps up the droplet of blood and seals the wound with a slight snap of her magic. You’d been worried she might need to slice your wrists open or something. The white fox had spent several minutes trying to orient herself so that Taira couldn’t see her drinking your blood, but had been actively hampered by the golden fox’s constant movement. Stepping away from you afterwards, Karise shoots Taira a glare which is returned with a smile.

“Now that’s out of the way, we can get down to business,” Karise says as she pulls her plate close to her, still standing as she begins picking at the food.

“Matters of state,” you say.

“No, matters of my foxes,” she replies. “I’ll gladly spend as much time as necessary with you and your current spymaster to work out the details but my main purpose today is to determine where you stand with respect to my plans.”

>continued

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>>33342222
You give her a look of surprise at her abruptness. “You swore unconditional fealty to me before talking about that? Isn’t that somewhat premature?”

She shrugs, chewing on a piece of pork sausage. While she deliberates her response, and chews her food, you take a seat and start on your own meal. And your coffee, too. Having Taira around to make it had improved your life greatly – clearly she had spent some time up north and learnt how to really make coffee at some stage. Or perhaps Ahm had a hidden coffee culture.

“It may be premature but I prefer to think of it as a calculated risk,” she says, looking at you seriously. “If I show you how serious I am about it then I hope that my feelings and drive will reach you. You seem like the sort of person who appreciates ambition that doesn’t threaten to eclipse your own.”

You nod slightly, ignoring the playful way Taira’s tails rub along the back of your head and chair. You’d swear you couldn’t take her anywhere.

“Would you rather hear about the benefits and drawbacks of having us around first or the politics in the alliance and what I want from you in exchange for our loyalty?” she asks.

>1. Benefits and drawbacks of foxes
>2. Politics

I’ll be covering both, this is just to break things up a tad (and there’ll be separate questions for each one). There’ll be a slight infodump afterwards.

>>33342087
>Original maid quest

Dear god has it really been so long?

>>33342257
>>1. Benefits and drawbacks of foxes

>>33342257
benefits + drawbacks first
muh politics can wait until we know the exact position

>>33342257
>1. Benefits and drawbacks of foxes

I just like we have a secondary race within the Empire it makes me warm and fuzzy.

>>33342257
>>2. Politics

>>33342257
>1. Benefits and drawbacks of foxes

>>33342257
>1. Benefits and drawbacks of foxes

What's in for us on this? Sell me.

Also, instead of braiding tails this time while they're distracted, poke them in the ear fuzz. You know that white ball of fur they've got in those big ears? That. Ear flicks are cute

>>33342330
>What's in for us on this? Sell me.

>Fluffy tails mostly
>SOLD

>>33342330
>Sell me.

You still need sold?

>>33342257
>1. Benefits and drawbacks of foxes
>>33342279
It has... Shame it got so much shit looked fun.

>>33342390
It was interesting because it was shit upon
what other quest begins with a masturbation?

>>33342468
It was honestly kind of dull the first time. Then she walked in the room and I burst a gut.

>>33341750
Let her stay.
It is important we both show our spymaster our trust in Taira (so we don't seem like an idiot who trusts anyone) and it is important that Taira see we trust her.

Plus, it's always good to knock a negotiator out of their comfort zone before talking shop.

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>>33342279
2010 doesn't feel that long past...

>huge infodump coming

>1.

“I want to know as much as I can about mystic foxes first,” you say, as you reach up and begin scratching Taira’s ears. She mewls a bit and her tails bat around her slightly recklessly as you rub the fluff inside of them.

Karise’s voice is laced with amusement as she gives you a serious answer. “First I’ll go through the growth of foxes and what we can do.

“You know that foxes aren’t considered adults until they have four tails, right? That doesn’t happen until they’re sixty years old. We take roughly twice as long to get the next tail as the previous, too, which means getting our fifth and sixth tails takes even longer. This table gives a pretty good reference.”

Karise flicks her tails about and suddenly a table appears, glowing in the air with words and numbers.

“As you can see, we get our first tail when we’re born, our second at ten years old, our third at thirty and our fourth at seventy. These are the average ages a fox will get their tails naturally – you’ll notice the gap between each doubles.”

You frown. “You just said foxes get their fourth tail when they’re sixty but now you say seventy.”

Taira pipes up from where she’s cuddling up against you cutely. “The Ceremony of Adulthood forcibly gives foxes their fourth tail early if they haven’t grown it naturally. I introduced it as a way of introducing more harmony as the wildly divergent times foxes could reach adulthood caused problems.”

You blink at that. “You introduced it?”

“I created most of the modern culture for mystic foxes when I united the clans,” she says simply, looking up at you with her green eyes. “The old clans, that is. I also split them into different ones based on function to create a single union.”

>continued

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>>33342793
“The old chief was a true empress in her time,” Karise says dryly. “In any case, our fifth tail is typically at one hundred and fifty years of age and our sixth at three hundred and ten. I’m sure you can guess that means the seventh is at six hundred plus.”

You shake your head at the timeframes. Mystic foxes certainly live a long time. Then you remember that Ren is supposedly an eight-tailed fox at just four-hundred and Tsucchi is only three centuries old but has her seventh.

“So some foxes get them earlier… does that mean some get them later?” you ask.

“That’s right. And many don’t get the additional tails at all,” Karise says, shocking you a bit with the last piece of info. “Only ninety percent of foxes get their fifth tail. Twenty percent of those get their sixth and a tenth of those get their seventh. And that’s before taking into account the high casualty rate for more powerful and capable foxes from conflict and assassination. I did a study on this a couple of centuries ago for the old chief where we tried to remove those effects.

“As you might guess, that means foxes with lots of tails are rare – particularly as we recently lost a lot of foxes. I am one of two six-tailed foxes in the Garotte clan, which has three thousand foxes in total.”

There’s a pause for a bit as you think over what you’ve been told. In short, foxes can grow old but not many get the sort of power Tsucchi or even Karise would hold.

“What happens when they don’t get the next tail?” you ask, suspecting you know the answer.

>continued

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>>33342813
“They get old and die,” says Taira. “By the time they would otherwise get their next tail they would likely have died from a heart attack or stroke as their body is unable to maintain the amount of power their tails require to sustain themselves.”

“In short,” Karise says. “The productive lifetime of your average mystic fox is between seventy and two-hundred and seventy years of age. They’ll be growing up for the first seventy and dying for the last thirty. That means if you want more of us you’ll be reliant on immigration of the existing forty-thousand in the alliance in the short-term. But you’ll also need to be careful to let us grow or our death rate will outstrip our birth rate.

“Of course, even a four-tailed fox is as strong as a magister so even a small number of us is incredibly useful for you.”

You nod at that and catch Karise’s point – the foxes will need nurturing and care, particularly as they relocate and settle, but will be a vital asset. Particularly as you intend to live long enough to see them grow to fruition.

>Questions before moving to politics?

Oh, and I’m also retconning Vad’s history a bit. I made a screw-up when first determining when he got his fifth tail and said 180 – he actually got it at 150. Plays havoc a bit with some things but the point is that Vad’s not behind the curve.

And the infodump is because this fox sub-plot is going to develop over time and I don't want to relegate it to the lorebin that may only very slowly update.

>>33342863
Tempted to ask what happens if humans breed with a fox.

>>33342863
So you say the birth rate is low?
How low?

>>33342863
>Questions before moving to politics?

Do your foxes have any particular needs or preferences as to where to get set up within my empire?
Are there any immediate supplies they'll require?

>>33342863
We're not going to have any random enemies outside of pharos are we because we took you in?

>>33342863
>>33342929
>>33342933

Second both of these.

What would we need to ensure proper nurturing and care?

>>33342863
"So I just adopted a bunch of foxes. Anyone calls me Papa Talon gets sent to the mines."

>>33342966
This.

>>33342863

You know this is actually really useful. We have foxes who are long term power houses and we plan on building up patterns and other races that can rapidly build.

>>33342863

>Preferred location for the village(s)? Obviously depends upon how they want to set it up, secretive away from people, or close by to maximize easy aid from Harrowmont, Vitria, Darlesia, etc.
>Is there a "breeding season" for Foxes? Typical age of sexual maturity?
>Is there any social faux pas we'll want to avoid regarding Fox society as a whole?

>>33342933
Well probably park any new village inside Harrowmount if they arnt picky. Or make one in the mountains surrounding Harrowmount if they need secrecy. But keeping them in the heart of our empire will be the best option for keeping them safe.

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>>33342924
"Like with most magical creatures, the magic in our blood overpowers the non-magical and creates a pure-blooded fox. Due to physical differences in birth we try to avoid male foxes reproducing with human women though it is possible."

>>33342929
"The birth rate issue mostly relates to the fact that we tend to have three or four children at once but not to have any more until they get their third tail. Many females foxes won't want to have children if they think they'll be getting more tails - that's the case with myself and Tsucchi, though I'll be personally looking into the matter within several decades."

>>33342958
"We're not well-loved by those who dislike magical creatures."

>>33342933
>Do your foxes have any particular needs or preferences as to where to get set up within my empire?
"My own clan members prefer mountainous terrain. The Marnn mountain range isn't quite comparable to those back in Pharos but should be suitable. We need to be living in high altitude climates to cultivate the white tails that are the pride of our clan."

>more answers incoming

>>33343002
>harrowmount
>safe
harrowmont is the least safest as its got the greenest troops and are bordering lands that aren't part of our nation. Also if anyone attacks the source than the foxes will get caught up in it too.

I don't know where you idiots are getting the "harrowmount is safe" idea.

>>33343002
I'm assuming that, but if they want to go set up out in a forest clearing somewhere we control for whatever reason, we should ask about it now.

>>33343002

I'd like to do that as well, though I'm not sure where. All of the districts are rebuilt and occupied as of right now.

There was talk about building another wall and we could build more districts within that. Would take some time obviously. Would it inadvertently introduce a class issue? I rather like the idea of having the Foes mingle with our mass of Vitrians, Darlesians, Taourns to help the whole unified Empire idea along.

>>33343046

>someone finally occupying the Marnn mountains

Thank christ that blob of gray in the middle of our empire always bothered me.

That and now the Griffon statue holds a more significant meaning. The Griffon watches the foxes prosper and guards it with an ever watchful eye.

>>33343048
Don't be daft.
Its the seat of our astral power, and overtime we will be reinforcing it as a dedicated fortress capital.

We keep the green troops their because its the safest place to muster. Were not going to just ignore an attack by letting our main army twiddle its thumbs. The main point is those concerns are nothing different than anywhere else other than the fact Harrowmount is the province we have the most control over.

Having said that, we should probably look into doubling up our army into several legions for various fronts/purposes.

>>33343048

Harrowmont has "plot armour" safety. It's location in the mountains, high sloped roads, and short distance from its sister city Vitria for more purposeful mustering, cutting off escape, etc. provides one of the more easily defensible locations. That and everyone gets a "Defend the Capital" bonus to morale because come on of course they do.

>>33343048

Look at the map again.

Harrowmont borders Mitromar and Marrogar, but that border is impassable to all but fliers.

Similarly, Harrowmont is only accessible by Vale or Mier.

This means that any quick assault on Harrowmont will have to be lead by fliers or by a blitz through Mier since Port Trembley route is too round-about.

Either way, it gives Talon time to quickly reinforce Harrowmont, especially with Taira's mass teleportation.

We'll continue to build up Harrowmont defenses and continue to pick up defenders like that chimera. The next PoP is likely going to the port as well.

You should check yourself before you call others idiots.

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>>33342990
"So I just adopted a bunch of foxes. Anyone calls me Papa Talon gets sent to the mines," you say gruffly.

"Should I tell them to call you 'Daddy Talon' instead?" Karise says teasingly and you huff at her in response.

>>33342966
"Ample food supplies. Freedom of movement. The limitations of land and food the Mage Guard placed on us meant that most clans implemented restrictions on breeding so I would hope we could lift those immediately here. Otherwise if you don't call too many foxes into service."

>>33342995
>Preferred location for the village(s)? Obviously depends upon how they want to set it up, secretive away from people, or close by to maximize easy aid from Harrowmont, Vitria, Darlesia, etc.
"The Marnn mountain range is suitable enough for us. Ren's people will likely prefer slightly lower terrain so you might find that they'll try to locate themselves close to here - you'll need to determine for yourself how you'll explain the massive power source here. Tsucchi didn't mention this at all."

You blink as you realise that Karise had clearly sensed it, and having sworn fealty would now keep the secret.

"Secrecy of us isn't a large issue. I would hope that we would be able to live openly and freely rather than cloistered like we are in the Mage Guard territories."

>Is there a "breeding season" for Foxes? Typical age of sexual maturity?
"Not really to the first. Sexual maturity is usually shortly after they get their fourth tail."

>Is there any social faux pas we'll want to avoid regarding Fox society as a whole?
"We tend to be slightly more... physical in our interactions between sexes, even platonically. As you can see from Taira's actions - though that might be slightly different, I suppose. Just don't knock back foxes who act a little differently than you expect."

"Vad certainly didn't appreciate it when I grabbed his tail," you say and both girls give you a look of surprise until you explain the story.

"Same sex is different," Karise says.

>>33343137
That.. is pretty cool.

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Any last questions before moving onto politics?

>>33343352

None from me

>>33343307
haha using my line, your making my day Aspie.

>>33343352
none from me

>>33343352

About did it for me. Gives a lot to work with.

Have a good feeling we'll be giving them the freedom of movement and ample food sources as well, given we have a few spare feeders at present. I think we'll see a nice little influx of Fox population here with the new deal.

>>33343352

One quick one, do they have to cultivate their own food? Or would our current Feeder Provinces be ample enough for their, relatively, small populations? If they need something special will they need our aid to get it up and running and where?

>>33343466
tourny never

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>>33343466
"My own people will grow some small things in the mountains using our techniques and trade our services with lowland villages for the rest of our food and goods if you're willing to let us mingle with the villagers. There's so few of us I doubt we'll have any impact on your food supplies."

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>politics

“Alright, that covers mystic foxes as a race,” you say. “What about the political issues. You’ve alluded to the restrictions of the Mage Guard and Tsucchi indicated you might want to start a new clan.”

Karise nods a bit, giving a slightly bitter smile as she learns Tsucchi told you about that. “There are currently five clans in the alliances but although the alliance is stable it’s not harmonious in the least. Our land and resources severely limited, we’re treated as a state secret by the Mage Guard due to their own stance on magic and there’s leadership issues in general.”

“Elaborate on ‘leadership issues’,” you say, frowning at the thought of your new allies having such difficulties.

“The Garrotte clan has been effectively split in two since Marin became the clan chief,” Karise says, looking a bit bitter at the thought. “The clan has one of the hardest hit during the initial betrayal – taking out the intelligence network of the alliance made it easier for them to strike at the other clans with nigh-impunity. We only have three thousand foxes in total and a third of those support myself over Marin. More might join me if you offer a much better environment.

>continued

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>>33343601
“As for the alliance at large, Ren has a poor reputation despite his power. He comes across as lazy and arrogant and the fact he has let his clan grow without limit has made the other clans bitter. Of course, he’s also offered more of his foxes to the Mage Guard to be able to do that but they don’t see that. The only reason he’s still in power and the alliance stable is because Pharos is too great a threat and they have nothing able to stop him. He slaughtered a small army of the Gold Clan’s best enforcers when they attacked him in the betrayal and they’ve never tried to kill him since.”

You sigh. “So the alliance is going to slowly shift from the Mage Guard lands to mine and that will create haves and have-nots, which may weaken this stability. Particularly if I can offer protection from Pharos like Ren has.”

Karise shrugs with a grimace. “Most likely. That’s why I grabbed this opportunity with both hands. You’re the best opportunity my race has had to break free from our atrophy since the betrayal. It might be fractious, which is why my intention to create a new clan can wait until things are settled. That might be years or decades from now – we can work on that as we go. If you’re interested in letting me…”

>Any questions on politics?

>>33343625
We're done here.
No new clan-making until the situation is stable though.

>>33343625

What's up with all the "ifs" and "buts"? Thus far most of the Foxes we've dealt seem like battered wives, they want what's best but only if it's okay.

We got Tssuichi to speak with us frankly. Karise needs to come clean as well, minus the ifs and buts.

>>33343625
>ren has a poor reputation
does the guy even know how bad his own reputation is?

>>33343625

Hypothetically speaking.

If we went to war(or any variation of incident) with the Mage Guard where would they fall in that situation? Have to fight their own race? Become a nonparticipant? Would the Mage Guard go as low as to send units of under-trained, poorly nourished, or younger foxes to the slaughter merely to gain advantage?

>>33343695i disagree. We're running a fucking Empire here. Talons a nice guy but he's far, far more pragmatic then he is nice.

We shouldn't dismiss her wishes immediately. Instead, keep it on the plate as a potential reward.

>>33343760
are you new?
don't you remember a few threads ago when we discussed this

>>33343719
Ren seems like a bit of a cunt to be honest.

>>33343809
I'm 90% sure he really is a cunt.
We're allies now so we got to make the best of it

>>33343785

Not at all, situation is slightly different now.

We're aware certain foxes will aid us in combat roles, such as Vad and his soon to be trained unit.

It can be assumed the Mage Guard would have those units as well. And given their restrictions on the Foxes it may be likely they can muster forces at will.

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>>33343695
VOTE
>1. Confront Karise on precisely what she wants and when, without predicating it on your own unknown desires.
>2. Leave her be for now.

>>33343719
"He knows. I just doubt he particularly cares," Karise says. "Given some of the current clan heads actively prevented him from taking power when Taira stepped down, giving power to the clan that betrayed us, then continued to try to undermine him as he practically saved our race... well, let's just say he probably has his share of dislike for them."

"You sound supportive of him," you say cautiously.

"He's the only clan leader who appears to be doing his job and looking out for the foxes he is responsible for," she replies bluntly. "He's a bit of dick, though, if an effective one. He got most of us off Pharos, brokered the deal with the Mage Guard and has kept things going so far."

You nod. Clearly things are slightly more complex in the alliance, though Karise's opinion may be coloured by the fact that she doesn't appear to appreciate her own clan's leadership.

>>33343625
>>33343695
I agree with her speaking her mind, save the political bullshit for the nobles. Our cabinet must speak their mind. As for her clan, we need things to settle mainly we need more power, Service guarantees citizenship.

>>33343873
>1. Confront Karise on precisely what she wants and when, without predicating it on your own unknown desires.

>>33343873
>1. Confront Karise on precisely what she wants and when, without predicating it on your own unknown desires.

>>33343873
>leave her be
no need to cause problems YET.

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>>33343760
"I will support you without qualification, as will the foxes here. Otherwise, the alliance will attempt to stay out of the matter - though the degree to which Ren actively attempts to do so would depend heavily on his opinion of you and what you're doing for his foxes. The Mage Guard may also attempt to split up the alliance if some were supportive of you and others not, I suspect.

"And, yes, the Mage Guard would be happy to do whatever is necessary should they decide to stop you. I doubt they'd go to such extremes before using their armies first, though."

>2. Leave her be for now.
I'd say we keep the 'when' vague incase we want to use that for an actual carrot for her.

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>>33343873
>2. Leave her be for now.

>>33343873
>1

>>33343873
we need something to ensure she works hard. that can be the "possibility" of making her own clan

>>33343873
I like Karise, she's blunt.

>>33343873
>1. Confront Karise on precisely what she wants and when, without predicating it on your own unknown desires.

Also inform her that making a new clan is one of the reasons her offer was chosen.

>>33343921
>"And, yes, the Mage Guard would be happy to do whatever is necessary should they decide to stop you. I doubt they'd go to such extremes before using their armies first, though."

Damn that is straight fucked. I certainly hope it never comes to that.

>>33343992
well we're building an empire
Its either ally with them or war with them and take them over

>>33343992
>>33344006
Welp, guess its good we got the spy clan. We can destroy them with subterfuge so they can't send them to die. Win without having to fight.

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>1.

“Karise, you seem to be quite good at being blunt so I’m going to ask you to cut the crap,” you say flatly, with a hint of harshness. “Tell me what you actually want and why, without trying to guess my thoughts or worrying about things that may never be. I’m a big boy, if I don’t like it I’ll tell you and why in return. If you’re going to serve me as a spymaster and member of my cabinet I need you to speak to me without reservation.”

Karise looks surprised at that and gives you a measuring look. Then she licks her lips and gives you a nervous smile. “Okay, I guess we can try that. Just don’t complain if I ride you a little rough as a result.

“I want to bring all one thousand of my foxes over here as soon as possible,” she continues. “If the first two hundred settle in with no problems from the locals then I’ll organise to bring the next eight hundred over. I’m happy to use many of them for intelligence and spying but I don’t want them to serve in the military – leave that to any other foxes you get. I don’t want restrictions on where we can live and what we can do. Full-fledged citizens of this York Empire of yours or nothing. In return we’ll offer you all of the capabilities we have to offer and a dedicated core of mystic foxes that will protect you from any machinations within or without.

“And I’ll want to begin the process of starting a new clan within a decade. That’s the least important element of my plan – having my people safe and happy is the main priority.”

Karise stares at you in anticipation, masking her emotions carefully. Taira also watches you from the side, having ceased her cuddling actions.

>How do you respond to her demands?

>>33344132
Wait how do our people respon to foxes? Do we know? I don't want any random racism issues

>>33343824
Everything we hear about him is bad or "He's only slightly retarded" type excuses.

It's fine, we have Tsu and Taira to assist us. I wouldn't sweat it about him, I was just noting he's a cunt.

>>33344132
Are the self-sufficient? Or are we going to have to splurge our funds until they're self sufficient. Or are they going to be costly to our empire?
Too many questions

>>33344132
food food food issues
We're fine with none in the military

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>>33344163
They're a rare enough sight that most people likely wouldn't be too worried by them. They're usually seen as guardians or protectors. You don't have the slightest clue how they'll react to villages of them sprouting up or if this will make you suspectible to Pharos inciting problems.

>>33344187
I mentioned last thread that there's too few of them to impact on your budget, plus they'll be self-sufficient if you don't place any restrictions on them. Foxes have plenty to trade with regular villages.

>>33344132
without is the wrong word, you meant outside
anyhow
Can the mountains even support that many foxes? I thought it was just a normal mountain and those don't have much on them

>>33344132

Military is the only innate issue I have with it. But, bringing over a strong core rapidly will peak the others interests and likely cause the more military inclined to come in short order.

In all honesty I'm completely okay with the idea. The treaty in the first place seemed like a means to an end for a floundering and scared race. Offering them true freedom as people would secure their loyalty to us quickly and create a more cohesive united Empire.

Also it's THE York Empire. Get it right.

>>33344174
He sounds to me to be more pissed off that they fucked him over.

>>33344132
"Sounds easy enough to me. We may have to be subtle about the move for the first year or so however."

>>33344234
>Pharos inciting problems.

>inb4 the Griffon in the East becomes the Griffon from beyond the Sea.

>>33344132
I'm fine with everything, we're building an empire after all
I'm accepting everything besides making the new clan, don't want to start any civil wars especially with spies.

>>33344245
>THE York Empire

Pls no.

>>33344132
>K cool sounds good

>>33344132
full citizenship is assured as long as they don't cause problems with the current population

>>33344313

Anon that is what it's called in the bins, accept it and the awful egotistical tackiness it is.

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>>33344243
>without is the wrong word, you meant outside
It's an archaic usage of the word and was intentional.

>Can the mountains even support that many foxes? I thought it was just a normal mountain and those don't have much on them
Most of their food will be traded for. They'll only be growing a few small things up there using their magic.

Anyway, I don't see any opposition to her ideas apart from some hesitation over the new clan idea.

>>33344313
Seriously...
>>33344296
That sounds awesome and why the hell didn't we use "The Griffon Empire"? 30000000x better than what it is.

>>33344362
because York is the best

>>33344301

Mild hesitation as well. But we have a full decade to begin working on it properly and ironing out the details in a more precise manner. We just got the time table we asked for basically. I'm okay with it.

>>33344362
because we're tacky like that
That and the fact that at least me personally wanted to see Talon change in how he thinks of his last name
since ever time before that was all RAGEMODE ACTIVATED

>>33344187
>>33344132
Pretty much this. We need these foxes to be able to pull, their weight and be of use to us quickly.

Is this going to be a long-term, tedious excercise in tending their population, situating them in the right place, only using them in certain ways and watering them at the right time or will we be getting some bang for or buck from the get go?

I suggest a trial period, where the foxes are provided rights as she asks but may have to work in the military if requested.

Give it some time and see how they do; if they prove to be assets, we may agree to her proposal about a new clan.

I want our empire to be pro magic and have all citizens willing to go to war. I our people must bleed, hers must also be able too.

>>33344234
I'm cool with it but, if they are wanting citizenship they should be part of drafts and such if we ever need it.

>>33344362

I love the tackiness of it.

Just seems like something Talon would do. The way he just brought up like, "Oh hey, yeah we're The York Empire now, K? Good." just made me laugh.

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MILITARY VOTE
>1. Require Karise's foxes to serve in the military on top of their work in the intelligence services.
>2. Exempt Karise's foxes from military service until they build up their population (a good century or so) but still require them to work in the intelligence services.
>3. Custom

>>33344399
The foxes aren't going to be suckling at the empire's teat unless you prevent them from being self-sufficient like the Mage Guard has or damage their population through some means (casualties, incitement of racism, loss of leaders etc).

>>33344132
Accept everything minus the new clan
I'm fine with the military aspect as seems IC for Talon who's known as a pragmatist
Best way to ensure her loyalty is to agree with everything that wouldn't cause us problems

>>33344492
2

>>33344492
>2. Exempt Karise's foxes from military service until they build up their population (a good century or so) but still require them to work in the intelligence services.

But ask her not to inhibit any of her foxes that desire to work in our military. They will of course have to sign a contract stating their desire and that they are not being forced into it.

>>33344492
2

>>33344492
>>2. Exempt Karise's foxes from military service until they build up their population (a good century or so) but still require them to work in the intelligence services.

Lets not. Not everyone is for military work and I would rather have them working on the intel network then risk dying on the field.

>>33344492
>2. Exempt Karise's foxes from military service until they build up their population (a good century or so) but still require them to work in the intelligence services.
But state that in return, she has to put her clan-building on hold until we can be assure there won't be any issues (e.g. spy civil war)

>>33344542
this works for me
change>>33344529
to this

>>33344542
>>33344565

These two stips seem to work well.

>>33344492
Can we make 1 only done if necessary? Like, not every battle, but if it's deemed important enough?
If not, the 2 I suppose.

Give them full civil rights. Putting laws against them will only cause racism to form.

>>33344492
Seriously fuck the mage guard up the ass withot any lube

>>33344492
full civil rights (i.e. full York Empire citizenship) please. Don't want any random racism subplots.
Also do
>>33344565
>>33344542

>>33344611

If only we happened sooner. Poor Foxes wouldn't be in such a shitty place.

>>33344643

Yeah I honestly don't think Talon would really care about what they do. So full citizenship works for me.

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>2.

“I’m happy with that,” you say simply. “So long as you and your foxes demonstrate that their capabilities as part of my intelligence network isn’t just show. Further, I won’t draft your people into the military but they can join it if they wish to anyway – I’ll offer this on the basis that you hold off on your clan-building desire until the situation is more stable. I don’t want a civil war within your alliance at the worst possible time.”

Karise nods tightly, not showing her emotions. She then gives you a full bow, her tails fanning out low behind her in a show of subservience. It feels right to you that she do this, though you ignore the swelling feeling within you – damned instincts, you think.

As the white fox leaves, supposedly to find Tsucchi and talk with her, Taira cuddles with you some more.

“I think that went well,” she says. “Karise was always more guarded but I guess she must feel that she needs something from you bad. You should take good care of her, Talon.”

“You say that like I’m her husband or father,” you complain.

“You’re her master and she’s placed herself in your care,” Taira admonishes you. “So you need to live up to your end of the deal.”

You nod, thinking privately that things weren’t quite like that.

>a quick note on the tourney next before I do the opening ceremony

>>33344492
>3
Give equal citizenship. I.e if there is a draft they can be drafted into the military. They are just fluffy citizens.

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>>33344744
A quick foreword on the tourney.

My intention with this mini-arc is to combine the remaining diplomacy, some character interactions and the plans for the knightly and ranger orders into one. Plus some fun action.

I intend on trying to wrap up the tourney by the end of Thread 40 at the very latest, followed immediately by major decisions on who to work with, whether to set up a royal line, state governance etc. My intention is to be back in the swing of things as soon as possible.

I will also be running longer threads during the tourney if I can do so. That means 9-10 hours per session if interest is maintained. Social events within the tourney will be left until the later hours.

The main events will be:
1. Highlights of the tourney events.
2. Diplomacy with King Fenix, Archmage Alyce and the three powers in Termina.
3. Some social events.
4. Announcing the new orders and their grandmasters

If there are additional things that you guys want to do then this may blow out but my default assumption is that this tournament arc will not become like, well, every tournament arc ever (aka Namek).

>>33344744
>though you ignore the swelling feeling within you – damned instincts, you think.

Oh dear.

>>33344778

I think we can all agree to keep it as tight as possible for your sake Aspirational.

Not having Talon directly interact with the Tourney will help immensely as well.

>>33344778
well this is fine.
Lets hope we roll well so that Lynn actually becomes grandmaster

>>33344842
Personally I really want Talon to do in the Tourney is issue a challenge by firing 5 arrows into the target. Then offering money for anyone who can pull off the same.

Helps find archers and shows off without actually joining.

>>33344778
Naw, that seems good to me. Keep Talon detached, as an emperor should be.

Exploring his power/experimenting with stuff (Death and power astral powers come to mind) would be interesting though.

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Oh, and a short break before the next post while I have some lunch. Let me stretch my writing muscles before jumping into it.

Tourney will be in Vitria due to the obvious issues around hosting it near the Source.

>>33344778
>inb4 we start a war with all three powers in Termina by the end of this thread
>inb4 Fenix + Alyce try to kill each other
>inb4 we lose the tourny to outsiders
>inb4 only 1s and 19s

>>33344778

Where is 'romancing every female and every almost female' in that list?

>>33344928
>Implying that isn't exactly what we want to happen.

>>33344896

That is the one thing I can agree with in terms of Talon participation. It'll be fun.

>>33344905
>Hey why isn't the tournament in the capital?
>Shut up Steve

>>33344940
Depending on who the league and the HSK brings. We might be rolling to seduce quite a bit.

>>33344928

My prediction is the young upstart King in Termina will be playing a large role in the Tourney, might be the winner of the Battle Royale.

But yeah if all of that happens, don't color me surprised.

I'm pretty hype for the Tourney. We'll get to see a good bit of our military types developments in full force. Phrase, Moss, the archers, and our mages are likely to all impress.

>>33345017
The major duels are probably going to come down to offscreen dice rolls.

>>33344905
If Lyn loses, I am coming for you. Lyn doesn't get enough love.

>>33345106
>Lyn doesn't get enough love.

I'm pretty sure she gets plenty of Talons love.

>>33344905

Time for Vitria to rake in the cash. I'm sure Sarah will be pleased.

So she drank our blood, what was up with that? I forgot to ask about it, I know it was part of her clan's ritual but whats the meaning behind it?

>>33345106

>inb4 we get to play as Lynn for the final duel
>we hear all of her lewd Talon thoughts
>flub the rolls

It'll be glorious.

>>33345208
It's an ancient fluffy tails ritual our the gens from our blood will be used during the development of her next child

Having an Intelligence network is good but I wish we had the ones that's good in administrative work. We get more free time and level grind.

Also get it on with the ladies.

>>33345237
Kinky. Wait, she going to make a claim on our throne later with said child?
>>33345296
I agree.

>>33344778
Whats his face, the Darlesian knight/noble. If he's actually a knight we should probably refound his order. Seems like something to do at this time

>>33345208
In internalising our blood she's bound herself to us in a similar but lesser way as how the fox tails bind them to the material world.

>>33345347

Who?

>>33345347
You mean Flex Slabmuscle?

>>33345388
mr. normal who can't keep up
felix

>>33345208
It turns her on. She likes the taste of blood.

>>33345212
Lynn's one of my favourite characters, even before we fucked her. Her interactions with Talon in the first few threads were pretty fucking cool.

>>33344928
This will without a doubt happen.
What with how we roll and all

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>Tournament Arc finally begins
>CleganeBowl Confirmed

Get Hyped

>>33345408
No, that one Marshall who was in command of that fort where we fought all the HMK. The marshall title means he was a knight or a noble, and since he served us competently we should probably see that he gets his land or order back

>>33345460
Fucking conspiracy theorists

>>33345523

The enemy one? The one we killed?

I honestly have no idea who you're talking about.

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>>33345544
>>33345460

Get Hyped

Rolled 2

rolling to confirm that we only ever roll 1s and 19s

>>33345556
Marshall Tobias, from thread 10

>>33345523
Oh that one kid, that was part of the onyx guard I think it was. That wanted us to kill his father and make him leader in return for his support. When we took Vitra.

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Horns and trumpets blared throughout the improvised stadium that had been constructed outside Vitria for this tourney. Having never hosted an event of this size before, the Vitrian organisers had hurriedly erected a stadium capable of seating tens of thousands. For good cause – not only had many of the people of Vitria come out to watch, so had countless villagers from nearby. As had no small number of traders and nobles from the RSK, as Marcus had gleefully told you. Vitria itself was a hive of activity, far different to ghost town it had been just a few months ago.

You sat in the highest stand around the stadium, having already given a short and sweet opening speech – making good use of the trick of glowing brightly to impress the onlookers. The grand melee was the first serious event and was scheduled for the afternoon. For the morning there was a sequence of dancers and other entertainment while you busied yourself with the important guests.

Such as the king of the RSK – Old Fenix was apparently waiting down below and you couldn’t exactly put the meeting off, having invited him. You wonder idly who he’s brought with him and who you should take with you.

The more you take, the more it might feel like a confrontation, at least to his guards. On the other hand, if you want to show Fenix anything (or anybody) in particular that would easily be done by having the subject accompany you to see him.

>Who do you take with you to meet King Fenix of the RSK?

Probably the most important choices are around Undine, Neir and the foxes, though Gnome is also probably important.

>>33345523
You mean Tobias? The guy at Olmm?

Yeah okay, he'd come with a small fortress to serve as HQ and is close to the RSK/League fronts, as well as the wall of Crece.

>>33345651
just our core "friends".
we're not bringing a guard, just bringing friends.
undine, taira, gnome, sala, mal, lynn, etc.

>>33345651

Undine, Gnome, Taira, Neir, Mal

No need for Lynn and Sala

>>33345654
Yes, him. We should probably ensure we don't fuck him over

>>33345651

>Gnome
>Lynn (Because I imagine he'll be bringing his Champion in tow)
>Mal
>Taira

I think that'll do.

>>33345635
>Rolls a 1d2
>Can't even get a 1

Shameful display

>>33345754

I honestly doubt he's that important. He's not even on the NPC pastebin. He will probably pop back-in if we need it for plot reasons.

>>33345651
Do we know how many would offend Fenix?
We were his friend and general weren't we?

>>33345713
>Core friends
>Aka a whole bunch bitches

>>33345651

Undine, Gnome, Mal, Lynn. NO foxes, the don't need to know of them yet.

>>33345713
>>33345809
You mean, team Army smasher.

>>33345651
Undine, Gnome, Taira, Mal (who brings Sala and Neir) and Lynn

If we're still going to breed dogs and not griffons or Dragons I recommend we call said program

Talon's Breeding Bitches

>>33345651
Honestly I think we should go Salamander, Gnome and Lynn.

Not sure why we would want a squishy mage with us here.

>>33345859

We are not going to get in a fight with the King of RSK in Vitria, anon.

>>33345421
>Be Felix
>Suffer

>>33345651
How many is the usual?
Can we ask someone in the know about the regular amount to bring?
Only one I want for sure is Undine + Taira

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>>33345796
It's less 'how many' and more 'what'. If you show up with a bunch of foxes, mages and elementals in tow it's going to scare the shit out of his guards and maybe make Fenix a bit nervous, particularly as you recently left Ahm.

If you came along with a small army of mage-knights it's doubtful they'd care. Fenix's royal guard are no pushovers but they do worry about powerful magic users.

>choices so far
Most everybody seems in agreement over Undine and Gnome coming along. Finn and Lynn are pretty much non-optional given their respective positions. Nobody wants to bring foxes except maybe Taira.

MAL VOTE
>1. Bring Mal and Sala
>2. Bring Mal
>3. Bring neither.

NEIR VOTE
>1. Bring Neir
>2. Don't bring Neir

TAIRA VOTE
>1. Bring Taira
>2. Don't

Let me know if there's any change of opinion on Undine or Gnome or if people are worried about Finn revealing he's an elf.

>>33345902
I'm surprised his stats were even that high considering he was just a minor character wo was probably going to get kill

>>33345949
>>1. Bring Mal and Sala
>2. Don't bring Neir
>2. Don't

>>33345949
>2
>1
>2

>>33345956

>Felix
>minor

Anon you don't understand the ridiculous love people have for Felix.

>>33345949
Mal's our friend and archmage, ofc he gets an invite
don't really care about sala

Ask neir if she wants to be there obviously

Bring Taira (shes our fox representive)

>>33345949
>2
>2
>1

>>33345956

He was a pretty good general. Better track record with us than the Old Man.

He's also an interesting character that we can't bone, so that gets points with me.

>>33345949
2
1 but ask Neir first
don't care about Taira

>>33345949
Bring Mal
Don't bring Neir
Don't bring Taira.

>>33346000
>(shes our fox representive)

That's Ren's sister. Taira is technically just a allied fox to us since she isn't in the alliance anymore. Though I kind of want to keep her slightly unknown at the moment. That's a lot of firepower.

>>33345949
>2
>1
>1

>>33345949
>2
don't care
>2
>>33346047
THIS. If we do fucking bring Taira than make sure she hides her tails down to 5-6

>>33345949
1
1
2

>>33345949
>2. Bring Mal
>2. Don't bring Neir
>1. Bring Taira
Disguised taira please just in case his spies havn't heard about her yet. Might as well try and keep it a secret

>>33345949
2

1

1

>>33346100
Yeah I kind of like that more. Because jesus flat out saying we have a 9 tails that can wreak shit is just asking for them to place us higher on the risk list.

>>33345949
>2
>2
>1

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Tie on Neir. Neir will want to come so I'll resolve that in her favour as ambassador.

TAIRA VOTE
>1. Have her keep her tails down to 5-6 visible. They shouldn't be able to notice this.
>2. Have her show all nine of her tails.

>>33345949
>>33346034
change my vote of don't care about Taira to disguising Taira please if we do bring her

>>33346188
1

>>33346188
>1

>>33346188
>1
Pretty sure his spies have already heard but whatever, might as well try and pool the wool over old Felix just in case.

>>33346188
>>1. Have her keep her tails down to 5-6 visible. They shouldn't be able to notice this.

If they do notice then we can have some fun.

>>33346188
>1

>>33346188
1

>>33346188
2

>>33346188
1

>>33346188
1

>>33346188
keep her down to 6 tails
That seems like a high enough number to be a representative but low enough that she won't pose any EXTREME THREAT WE MUST KEEP WATCH ON TALON level

>>33346337
Half the shit we've done has pretty much put us there and beyond

>>33346392
bich please, Talon poses no threat to Fenix right now as not only is he an old friend that helped them with a war but also hasn't sided with any large factions.
We're basically assured that Fenix isn't going to send 13532523052 spies after us at the moment.

>>33346444
Why do I see Fenix right now just saying "Good luck I'm behind 1 million mage knights."

>>33346514
>thinking 1million can stop our hero team
topkek

>>33346533
>Battle of 1 million mage knights vs Talon
>Lairos wonders what the fuck is going on and comes out.

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>meeting Fenix

As you leave the box, Karise slips out of the shadows and walks with you.

“King Fenix seems like a very paranoid man. He’s brought his own personal army of guards,” she says lightly. “Most of them are wearing the bright gold I understand to be his royal guard but there’s a handful wearing blue and grey. Know who and what they are?”

You give her a sharp look, surprised she doesn’t know the answer to this. “Those are the Tallorn, Fenix’s personally picked mage-killers. They wear some extremely expensive and powerful magical equipment, are very well trained and experienced soldiers and killers and are rumoured to use antimagic. I’m not sure on the last as the one time they fought for me I only caught them bathing their blades in some magical liquid beforehand – though I do know they effortlessly tore through a twice their number of spellblades. They’re not pushovers.”

Karise nods, her lips tight. “I’ll do more research on them. In short, though, they’re who we should target if things get rough?”

“Pretty much. I doubt that will happen, though,” you say, trying to assuage her fears. “Fenix doesn’t pick fights when he’s not perfectly safe and sure of himself. Too risky. He brought the guards mostly as a deterrent for the League. They’ll be wary of us but they’re not here for us.”

“And if the League does start something here?” she asks.

“Then we shut it down. We’re here to talk, not act as a battleground,” you say bluntly.

>continued

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>>33346561
Karise gives you a nod and then slips away with your request for others to join. From the ease she moves around you have a feeling she has short-distance teleportation she can use regularly. It was coming in very useful as it meant you weren’t relying on sendings through an aide but instead a reliable subordinate.

As you leave the stadium your companions join you, fanning out behind you slightly. Lynn is on your immediate left, fully armoured as the representation of your royal guard and Finn is on your right. Neir is the only one not present, likely having presented herself directly to Fenix. You know you’re near the old king when you begin seeing a few dozen soldiers wearing expensive varieties of golden magical plate, glittering with runes. As you approach they stand at attention and bash their arms against their breastplates in a show of respect.

Hah, you think, it’s almost like you never left the RSK.

Fenix stands outside an enormous carriage, which is even larger on the inside than the out from your memories. He’s talking to Neir and several of the Tallorn stand nearby, looking relaxed as they banter with each other. The dull greys and blues of their armour and uniform make them stand out amongst the opulence around them. As you approach, they subtly raise their guards but don’t show any aggression. Which is sign of their professionalism, you think. Only a foolish guard would place a warrior such as yourself beyond suspicion of assassination but they can’t risk aggravating you.

>continued

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Before you met the old bastard of a king you had a very particular mental image of him – it was of a sinister, fat old bastard with balding hair and sunken eyes. Covered in opulence and utterly uncaring of everything besides his own greed and ambition.

The man who turns to you, stretching his arms wide in greeting as a toothy grin splits his face is the complete opposite of that image. Old Fenix is a tall, gaunt man with sharp eyes and a permanently jovial expression, if creased with age. Although he wears his opulence and power, it is still in a low-key fashion with a simple crown and fine clothes. You’d also bet your newfound fortune that he’s wearing enchanted armour beneath his clothing and is concealing a few weapons. No, Fenix wasn’t some decrepit old man, despite his age, but a sharp, feisty fiend with social grace that would make a devil green with envy.

“Talon, my old friend,” he bellows, his voice deep and confident as his eyes scan over your comrades. “It is good to see you again!”

>What sort of approach do you take towards the king of the RSK?

I’m looking for more than just a single dialogue response but more a vein of personality, I guess. Welcoming, neutral etc.

>>33346605
Welcoming
We did invite him

>>33346605
Match him. Big, jovial, slightly wary.

>>33346605
>welcoming as friends, neutral as statesman

>>33346605
Bro status. Like we treat Mal and Vad. In another light he could have been our king and hes a good friend.

>>33346605
Might as well be welcoming, we invited the old bastard

>>33346605
Might as well act welcoming.

>>33346605
>Tsundere

>>33346605

Welcoming like an old friend, but still keep appropriate distance as fellow rulers.

>>33346605
Man this guy takes no risks.
Act welcoming but become neutral once things go political.

>>33346605

All the welcoming you'd give to an old friend you haven't seen in a good bit. Good handshake(though if I'm reading it right Fenix is more likely to go for an embrace), banter, laugh.

Give a curt correction though, "That's Imperator Talon now."

>>33346605
>Friendly approach, as friendly as Fenix is.

Also, check for tricks and wodner what kind of sorcery is this.

>>33346695
Why would you do this?
We call him Fenix as well don't we?
Unless we call him king but he doesn't call us iperator than theres no need to do this

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>>33346704
>wodner what kind of sorcery is this.
Hmm?

Anyway, welcoming wins.

>>33346709

It is courtesy to address a man by his given title upon first meeting, regardless if it is an old friend or not when dealing with political situations. We would in turn of course call him King Fenix to begin with and we'd both wave off the formalities as is typical.

>>33346814
So, it'd be something like, 'if it were anybody but you, King Fenix, I'd correct you on my title. But we're beyond formalities like that, aren't we?'

>>33346790

As in, 'what the hell, who is this, where is fenix, dude, what happened' kind of sorcery. A joke, about how much Fenix changed, since I assume they at least have met before, to be good friends like this.

>>33346852

Basically yes.

Continues the general welcoming attitude, while still asserting ourselves, even if mildly.

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>>33346902
No, no, Fenix didn't change - the earlier description was Talon's mental image of him before they first met and was meant to juxtapose the fact that Fenix is known to be every part a stereotypical tyrant.

>welcoming

“Ho, Fenix,” you shout in return, a genuine sense of joviality rising within you as you the two of you embrace. Definitely wearing armour, you decide as you feel the distinctive feel of chainmail under Fenix’s clothes. Then the two of you separate and shake hands as usual.

“So, you’re Imperator Talon York now with your own growing empire under your belt,” Fenix says. “Truly do I see why you rejected my offer in the past – I won’t begrudge a man such as yourself the power he richly deserves.”

You find a broad smile on your face without any input from your mind, Fenix’s cheerful mood being infectious. “You can just call me Talon, King Fenix, just as you did earlier.”

“Hah, and you will just call me Fenix, Talon, just as you too did earlier,” he responds, his voice turning slightly gruff. His grin fades slightly, is lips vanishing beneath his bushy beard, as he gestures widely towards your companions before saying, “With the greetings of old friends out of the way, why not introduce me to your comrades? I have heard great things of you and your warriors – this tournament will not merely just be a great opportunity for us to talk of the future of our twin nations but for each of us to bask in the awe of the other. Though you already know of the awesomeness of mine.”

You find yourself chuckling along with Fenix, even as you note the obvious way he’s trying to manipulate you. Platitudes, compliments, joviality and always while speaking of the two of you together. ‘Twin nations’, both sides being as great as the other… Sharp bastard.

>continued

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>>33347185
You introduce each of your companions in turn, and Fenix gives them each a royal greeting, showing no disrespect to any of them despite the vast differences in station. He lingers momentarily on Taira, clearly interested in the fact that a six-tailed fox, so far as he knows, is serving you.

“Truly you have a way of attracting greatness, Talon,” he says, rubbing his chin as his eyes track back to you from your comrades. “A powerful trunk will enable you and your empire to grow without restraint as it holds aloft all the great branches that shoot from it, no?”

“Indeed,” you say. “What of your companions? Surely you brought more nobles, Fenix.”

“Bah,” the old king says, waving a hand dismissively. “I let them wander and entertain themselves. I have matters to talk with you about that they have no interest in – not for now, mind you, but for later. Plenty to talk about over the length of this great tournament as we enjoy the entertainment.”

Fenix breaks off momentarily to speak with Mal and Neir, possibly about their relationship, and one of the Tallorn steps up next to you. Both Gnome and Undine tense slightly as he does so, causing a similar reaction in the other Tallorn but you gesture to them to calm down.

“It’s been a while, Captain Bern,” you say simply.

“That is has General… sorry, Imperator Talon,” Bern replies blandly. “You probably already know this, but it’s policy to tell you anyway – we’re not here to threaten you or any of your people or soldiers. We’re just a precaution due to the Magi League presence here.”

“I know that, Bern,” you say with a small smile. “You do your job and I’ll do mine – and hopefully we’ll all go home happy.”

Bern gives you a nod and steps away, as professionally bland as ever. Strange man.

>Anything in particular to say to Fenix or things to look for?

>>33347205

Nothing in particular, we can save matters of state for later in the tournament.

Just engage in some mindless small talk.

>>33347205

Is his daughter abouts? Or any family for that matter?

>>33347205
politicing later, tourny now

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>>33347296
Fenix gives you an odd look when you ask about that before saying, "No, no, I left Asfael to her own business. We can speak a little of that later, too."

>>33347205
Ask him how hes been just in general. Light chit chat.

>>33347368

We're totally getting a marriage proposal, that old bastard still wants us under his fold.

>>33347205
Ask him if he ever removed all the novels about us from his kingdom yet

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You make some small talk with the old king and he banters back happily, though he does little more than tap the side of his nose when you ask him who in his retinue is entering the grand melee this afternoon. All you know is that it’s not any of the Tallorn – they’re not given to showboating like that.

Making a promise to meet in the private box to watch the melee you leave with your comrades, with Neir talking to Mal, and Karise slips next to you the second you’re out of sight of the RSK soldiers. Undine gives a slight jump at the sudden appearance of the spy while Neir approaches you.

“King Fenix is aware that I’m not really acting as ambassador though he doesn’t seem too concerned,” Neir tells you, shrugging slightly. “Also, something is strange around Princess Asfael – I get the feeling that things aren’t quite right in the royal family.”

You nod, frowning at the thought of Fenix’s unknown machinations. Not much you can do about it, though, apart from trying not to get too caught up in them.

“Archmage Alyce is on the other side of the stadium,” Karise tells you. “Far smaller group, but I wouldn’t say less capable. Mostly knights and spellblades – though a few carriages of mages did split off and go elsewhere. Probably contestants.”

You start to nod but Karise has more to say, “Also, there’s a Mage Guard inquisitor around. Tsucchi is speaking with him.”

You curse under your breath. You’d know they’d be coming shortly but had hoped you’d have more time. You…

>1. Go speak with Alyce now.
>2. Go speak with the Inquisitor now.
>3. Wait for one of them to come to you.
>4. Custom

>>33347546
>2. Go speak with the Inquisitor now.

How do I use the spoiler?

>>33347546
>1. Go speak with Alyce now.
Its only fair
Those invited get first pick whilst those gatecrashing get ignored until they come to us

>>33347546
>1. Go speak with Alyce now.

As to not upset those politically prickly types.

>>33347546
Let's go make sure the =I= don't ruin everything.
>>33347616
Ctrl+s

>>33347616
ctrl+s newfag
>>33347546
alyce. we don't want to seem like we're avoiding her and give her any ideas about deals we could've made wit fenix

>>33347546
>>1. Go speak with Alyce now.

Though we should probably ask if she heard the Inquisitors name. If it turns out to be that one guy Talon knows then things get easier.

>>33347546
>>1. Go speak with Alyce now.

>>33347546
>1. Go speak with Alyce now.

>>33347546
>1. Go speak with Alyce now.

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Oh, right, should quickly ask this:

Any changes to your party composition before seeing Alyce? Currently it's Talon, Finn, Lynn, Gnome, Undine, Mal, Neir and Taira (showing just six tails).

>>33347918
yea thats fine
go with it

>>33347918
Poor Felix.

>>33347918
Thats cool. Merce and Alyce are gonna be confused why we have their pastry chief but w.e

>>33347984
shes in taira form not raita form

>>33347918

Remove Taira. Alyce will see throught the illusion quite easily.

>>33347455
Probably not as that might serve to destabilize RSK and all politics are local. Then again, we did just hint at our interest in such a union...

>>33348038
That is a good point. On the other hand I'm pretty sure she'll know about it soon anyway.

>>33347984
>Merce

I wonder if she'll be there?

>>33348039
fuck unions and following anyone
lets solo this shiz with our natural 19s

>>33347918
Hmm, is it too late to serve some of Taira's pastries during this meeting?

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>1.

“You didn’t happen to catch the name of the inquisitor, Karise?” you ask.

She shakes her head. “No. I only saw his uniform and insignia.”

You sigh. Well, it’s probably Tormann and you can safely ignore the conman. Semi-safely.

Maybe not safely at all, knowing your track record with him.

Still, you have Karise keep a look out while you pay Alyce another visit. Best to keep her happy, particularly if she’s worried about you meeting with Fenix.

Upon arriving where Alyce is staying you immediately understand what was meant by a smaller contingent – there’s only a few knights around, and you only recognise them as knights as they wear the sigils of their order on their tunics as they cart around equipment and set things up. The only people who are armed and ready are the same two spellblades you encountered when leaving the labyrinth under Ahm – Moonblade and Rayza, as you remember them. They’re even dressed the same as before, with a simple plate breastplate and some reinforced clothing.

Rayza raises her hand in greeting to you and Moonblade gives a slight bow before freezing.

“You really should see somebody about this archmage addiction of yours, Imperator,” Rayza says. “Twice in a month? You might catch something nasty.”

You can almost feel the confusion exuding from Gnome and Undine at the strange greeting by one of the League’s best spellblades. You just shrug it off, preferring to focus on what’s important. Like that fact that Moonblade is staring at Taira in horror. She still only has six tails visible, so what…

“You… why are you here?” Moonblade asks shakily.

“I’m serving Talon,” Taira answers without hesitation.

>continued

>>33348038
Not sure she will.
On the one hand, Alyce is presumably much stronger, on the other, Astral (even limited) trumps arcane without serious effort on the part of the arcanist, and Alyce had no idea of Taira's multi-tails while she was still a pastry chef.

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>>33348167
Moonblade’s eyes almost pop out of her head as she stares in horror at the idea. Rayza mostly looks confused at the reaction of her companion, giving you an odd look as well. Taira waves her tails for a few seconds.

Then her face clouds over. “Oh, it’s one of you. Can’t say I expected a monster-slayer from Pharos working under a mage tower. Something special happening?”

Moonblade tenses up as Taira starts to question her, then shakes her head, looking away. “I am simply spending some time with the Tower of Stars as part of a cultural exchange. Don’t worry about me.”

Taira huffs, obviously annoyed but lets it drop. You’re still not sure what happened but you suspect that Moonblade recognised Taira – you remember her stating earlier that she had suspended her allegiance to the Empress of Pharos. Would that protect you here, you wonder.

Rayza waves you past before questioning her suddenly very quiet companion and you find yourself in the company of Alyce and Mercenie again inside their carriage (which is the size of a small house on the inside). The Aefir appears to be eating an early lunch while the Archmage is looking over some documents on a small table.

Merce gives you a glance as you enter before gesturing for Finn to sit next to her, which then causes Taira to tag along. The annoyed expression you catch on the Aefir’s face suggests that she doesn’t like that but you leave it be.

>1. Interrupt the archmage’s work.
>2. Wait patiently for Alyce to greet you.
>3. Poke around the carriage until Alyce stops you.
>4. Custom

>>33348185
>>3. Poke around the carriage until Alyce stops you.

>>33348185
>3. Poke around the carriage until Alyce stops you.

This sounds the most amusing.

>>33348185
>3. Poke around the carriage until Alyce stops you.

Now the Spoiler works for me. :)

>>33348185
>3
Find all the lingerie

>>33348185
3

What's great is that everyone thinks we're fucking her.

>>33348185
2

>>33348185
>3. Poke around the carriage until Alyce stops you.

>>33348185
>3. The only real option.

>>33348185
Hmm, given Moonblade's reaction we should probably see if we can tease the Pharon history of the conflict out of her sooner than later. I get the feeling she's going to tell the story a bit different from what we've heard before, and it'd probably be useful to understand exactly how their side is propagandizing the foxes etc.

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>>33348411
You mean asking Moon about it?

>3.

Merce is busy fighting with Taira over ownership of Finn and Alyce is ignoring you so you take the opportunity to have a look around. There’s not much interesting in this room so you slip past Alyce into what appears to be her bedroom.

The room is much messier than the one in her tower, likely meaning that without a servant to clean up after her she doesn’t maintain much cleanliness. Used clothes and underwear of both women are strewn around the room and the bed, which is unmade and recently used for activities that weren’t sleeping if you haven’t missed your mark. Not all that interesting as the tales from Gnome and Undine had already firmly established the Archmage and her familiar to be romantically involved. You instead poke around at the books and baubles.

There appears to be a small shelf dedicated to books on you and the war, mostly of the non-fiction variety. The books look dog-eared and have slips of paper distributed throughout them. Clearly somebody has been reading up on you.

One other book catches your eye, poking out from underneath a dresser, mostly covered by a nightdress. Picking it up, you notice that it’s a book on elementals. It looks old and expensive. You…

>1. Take the book.
>2. Put it back but note its name and author for later.
>3. Leaf through it, looking for any bookmarks and important notes.
>4. Custom

>>33348465
>3. Leaf through it, looking for any bookmarks and important notes.
+
note its name and author for later.

>>33348465
>>2. Put it back but note its name and author for later.

Talon's the best spy, Karise couldn't do any better herself.

>>33348465
>3. Leaf through it, looking for any bookmarks and important notes.

Tale of the Four Sisters something we'll want to look out for.

>>33348465

>>33348498
This.

>>33348465
2 and 3, but with snerk.

>>33348465

>>33348498
This is good.

>>33348465
2, then conceal it by looking through the books about us.

>>33348465
3

>>33348465
>Take the book.

Oh, valueable information. We can probably ask her for it too.

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>3.

Opening the book, the first thing you note is a long list of names on the inside cover. You don’t recognise any but the last two: Taren Hand and Alyce Forstadt. Huh, you think. It’s not often you find anybody using Alyce’s surname, as she publically forsook it when she overthrew the royal family – but it makes sense that she would write it in her own book, especially if she did so before then.

Unfortunately, those names are the only sign of an owner within the book. There are no dogears, bookmarks or scribbles anywhere when you flick through it. You do note a few potentially interesting chapter titles and spot an index at the back. Reading it will take time, though, so you’ll need to pick the most interesting one first. You’re also not sure what the reaction will be if somebody catches you skimming it.

Which topic do you attempt to skim read?

>1. ‘On The Birth of Elementals’
>2. ‘What is Purity?”
>3. ‘The Origin of All Familiars’
>4. None. Note the content and put the book back. Maybe you can ask Alyce or somebody else about it later.

>>33348465
ask her if you can borrow the book

>>33348685
>3. ‘The Origin of All Familiars’
Might as well get some world-lore