You awaken on schedule with the rising of the sun, and the first thing you notice is that your bedroll feels more cramped than usual…

Selene is here with you, curled up under your arm beside you. But you’ve come to expect that.
The one that surprises you is next to her, with an arm over the sleeping child that comes to rest on your chest. Laura is here too.

You may have been a little harsh last night, but she was acting a little strange. Now that you think about it, she gives you the impression of someone who had to grow up too fast, and in the end never grew up properly. Having a child at the age of 12 will do that to a person.

Add on top of that the fact that her life has been tumbling down around her, and you can justify a bit of strange.

You lever yourself up with your left arm and look around. Zen seems to have gotten last watch, and he’s off to the side sharpening his sword. Eleanor is already up, and she’s tending to a small fire at the centre of your camp.

You look back down at the sleeping princesses and smile. Maybe it’s just the new light that’s been shed on their relationship, but they look very right like this, all snuggled up together.

But you still have to question why they’ve chosen to do this on your bedroll and not their own…

>[ ] Get up and Talk to Eleanor or Zen

>[ ] Sleep for a bit longer

>[ ] Wake Laura up

>[ ] Other

>>39224600
>>[ ] Wake Laura up

>>39224600
>[ ] Get up and Talk to Eleanor
Start on breakfast

>>39224639
I'll change my vote to this.
>>39224672
Let's get the ball rolling.

>>39224672
I'm here and voting for this

So a couple of theories on Cassandra,Roderick, and the Prophecy of the Golden Crown.

One Cassandra is serving alongside Roderick to bring about his downfall, by covertly obstructing his plans, possibly throwing a wrench into the gears of fate allowing the revival of the major demons.

Two, Roderick is a madman determined to use his power to adjust the course of fate to break down prophecies and destroy the hold Fate has on the world which is why he's attempting to prevent Selene from inheriting the golden grown (the head of gold it's supposed to sit on)

Thee, the prophecy on the crown is an anti-prophecy, one created by a devil a long time ago, (which explains why only the royal family of Lauresia knows about it, Fate surely has a way of seeing that proper prophesies are well known) Roderick is acting as a tool of Fate to ensure that the false prophecy doesn't carry through, while Cassandra secretly opposes him.

I don't know how on target any of these are, but they seemed interesting ideas.

>>39224600
>[x] Wake Laura up

>>39224600
>[ ] Get up and Talk to Eleanor

>writing

You quietly slip out of bed, careful not to disturb the sleepers. After gently righting the blanket to cover the two of them, you walk over to Eleanor.

“Good morning.” You say.
“Oh hey Giles. I’m surprised to see you up. You looked pretty comfy” Eleanor says.
“That looked comfy?” You ask.
“Yes” She says.
“Okay, I guess it was. Only half comfy, though. The half with the sleeping ladies was fine; the half that was off the bedroll on the cold, hard ground was not.” You say.

Eleanor laughs. “I see your point” She says.

>[ ] Ask how she’s holding up

>[ ] Ask her if Laura has always been weird

>[ ] Ask her if there’s anything you can do to help

>[ ] Other

>>39225192
>[ ] Ask how she’s holding up
>[ ] Ask her if Laura has always been weird

>>39225192
>[ ] Ask how she’s holding up

>>39225192
>[ ] Ask how she’s holding up
>[ ] Ask her if Laura has always been weird
>[ ] Other
"So, what happen with you and Marcellus."

>>39225192
>Ask her how she's holding up

>>39225192
>>[ ] Ask how she’s holding up
>[ ] Ask her if there’s anything you can do to help

>>39225192
>[ ] Ask her if there’s anything you can do to help

>>39225192

>[ ] Ask how she’s holding up
if possible >>39225225

>writing

“So, how are you holding up?” You ask, sitting down next to her while she gives the growing fire a few little pokes to get the wood in straight.

“Better now that Cedric and Dalen are here. It was a little awkward being left alone with Marcellus for so long after what happened at the party, but I got over it.” She says.
“I figured you’d be happy now that your brother and… whatever the hell Dalen is to you showed up.” You say.

Eleanor nods. “I was actually kind of worried about them.” She says.
“Not as much as they were about you” You say.
Eleanor giggles. “You should’ve heard poor Ced when he first saw me. It took a bit of convincing to get him to stop wanting to run you through with his spear after I told him that you brought me into this.” She says.
“Thanks for that…” You say. One incident of ‘accidental’ friendly fire is enough for one adventure… “Speaking of people trying to kill me. Do you have any idea what’s up with Laura?”

“People trying to kill you reminds you of Laura?” She asks.
“Yes.” You say.
Eleanor eyes you strangely. “Okay… well there are a lot of things up with Laura. If you must know, she’s always had… issues.” She says.
“Issues like…?”
“She can get a little clingy. I’m sure you’ve noticed.” She says.
“I have”

>[ ] Ask her how to make it stop

>[ ] Ask her to elaborate

>[ ] Other

>>39225653
>[ ] Ask her to elaborate

>>39225653
>[ ] Ask her to elaborate

>>39225653
>[ ] Ask her to elaborate

>[ ] Ask her to elaborate

>>39225653
>[ ] Ask her to elaborate

>>39225653
>ask her to elaborate

File: e4d.gif (940 KB, 627x502)

940 KB GIF

>>39225653
>>[ ] Ask her to elaborate

>writing

“Care to elaborate?” You ask.
Eleanor fidgets uncomfortably. “Well… I guess I could, seeing as how you’re the target of her affections…” She says.

You place your elbow on your knee and lean your cheek onto your hand.

“Laura’s always been… weird. On one hand, she gets attached to people easily if they’re nice, and she gets very clingy when she likes someone. On the other hand, she’s never taken rejection well.” Eleanor says, poking the fire a few more times “When Salem was still around she’d spend every waking moment fawning over him, but then Salem left. Laura was sick for a pretty long while after that, so we didn’t see her much…

You wonder if she’s lying to protect Laura, or if she actually doesn’t know the truth.

“… When she finally got over it, she started clinging to Cedric. Poor Ced told her to give him some space just once, and she acted like that was it. It took a long time for him to convince her that he didn’t hate her guts, and they’ve been pretty good friends since then.” Eleanor says.

So this is just her? That’s… great...
This also goes a ways towards explaining why she sauntered off like you’d kicked her when you told her she was being weird last night…

You’re pulled from your thoughts by Dalen approaching and announcing his presence by yawning VERY loudly…

>[ ] Breakfast time

>[ ] Discuss the day’s plans

>[ ] Wake/talk to _________ so you can ask about __________

>>39226158
This

>>39226119
>[ ] Breakfast time

>>39226119
>[ ] Breakfast time
>[ ] Discuss the day’s plans

>>39226158
This. I think we're going to regret, but this.

>>39226119
>[ ] Breakfast time

>>39226158
>>39226177
>>39226199
Uhh I put that mostly as a joke but okay.

>>39226119
>[ ] Breakfast time
>[ ] Discuss the day’s plans

>>39226119
>[ ] Breakfast time

>[ ] Discuss the day’s plans

>>39226158
Pls no

>writing

>>39226119
>>39226119
>[ ] Breakfast time
>[ ] Discuss the day’s plans

>>39226158
But politely so as to cause less offense. Hopefully at least.

You and Eleanor figure that the fire is good enough to cook on now, so you get to work. You picked up some cooking stuff when you were in Catisse, and it comes in handy.

Eleanor shoos you off once she actually gets cooking, saying something about too many cooks.

You oblige her, mostly because you actually hate cooking…
Instead you head over to where Dalen, Zen, and Marcellus are talking.

You eavesdrop for a bit before joining the actual discussion.

They’re talking about the next town along the south road: Searise. More specifically, the town over which Lady Melissa presides. For the most part, they’re cautious about whether or not they should go there…

“I just… after how our meeting with Lord Donnell went…” Marcellus says.
“Melissa is not like Lord Donnell” You say, stepping into the conversation. “She wouldn’t turn us away, she wouldn’t call her guards on us and she certainly wouldn’t toss us in a cell.” You say.

“Still, we don’t know the situation in Searise. For all we know she’s not even the Lady there anymore.” Zen says.

“Then we don’t put all of our eggs in that basket.” Dalen says. “We’ve got a master of sneaking and disguise, who also happens to be the Lady’s dear friend.”
“You want to send Giles in alone?” Marcellus asks.

>[ ] I’d be fine with that

>[ ] Not alone, I’ll take _________ with me

>[ ] Don’t be paranoid, we’ll all go

>[ ] Other

>>39226518
>I'd be fine with that. Less risk for yourselves as well.

>>39226518
>[ ] I’d be fine with that

>>39226518
>>[ ] I'd be fine with that. Less risk for yourselves as well.

>>39226518
>>[ ] I’d be fine with that

>>39226518
>[ ] I’d be fine with that
fuck yeah, finally time for best girl

>>39226518
we solo this
[ ] I’d be fine with that

>writing

“I’d be fine with that. I’d promised to pay her a visit anyway.” You say. This’ll let you kill two birds with one stone, as you can check in and make sure she’s okay as well.

“If you’re okay with it, then I guess I can’t protest.” Marcellus says. “Just try not to repeat what happened in Catisse, okay?”

Given the fact that ‘Catisse’ only really happened because Laura was with you, you very much doubt that you’ll get a repeat. But you keep that much to yourself.

The 4 of you discuss how you’ll be going about all of this: when you’ll split from the group, where you’ll be meeting them, how long they should wait before they send someone after you, etc.

When the planning is finally done, you all go off to make your preparations.

You need to re-enchant the metal daggers you enchanted yesterday, as the Dark Fog you placed on them has already worn off.

As you walk to a nice, quiet place to concentrate, you feel something tugging at your cloak.

“Giles! Come!” Selene says, trying desperately to pull you back to the group…
You roll your eyes and head with her. It’ll probably be quicker just to see what she wants than it would be to explain why you can’t come.

Selene leads you through the camp, all the way back to your bedroll, where Laura is still sleeping. Then she looks up at you and pouts angrily.

>[ ] Wake Laura up

>[ ] Ask Selene what she wants you to do

>[ ] Other

>>39227006
>[ ] Wake Laura up

>>39227006
>[ ] Ask Selene what she wants you to do

She think's Laura is trying to steal us!

>>39227006
> Ask Selene what she wants you to do

>>39227006
>[ ] Ask Selene what she wants you to do

>>39227006
>[ ] Ask Selene what she wants you to do
>[ ] Ask her to show you the coin trick

>>39227006
>[] Ask Selene what she wants us to do

>writing

>>39227006
If Selene is going to end up in our bed with us anyways, we should just start off each night telling her a different story of the Master thieves, keep her spirits up as she's looking foreward to the end of the day.

We do it right and at the end of this all we can tell her the tale of the Gamblers final heist.

>>39227006
>[ ] Ask Selene what she wants you to do

Do we need to state in no uncertain terms that we don't like her romantically?

>>39227034
Did you forget Selene ships Giles and Laura?

>>39227173
Man, this is going to be epic. Backing.

>>39227173
Supporting this

>>39227173
Or telling her of how it all went awry?

>>39227294
see how long it takes her to realize that it was the adventure she went on

>>39227173
Oh, god that'll be fun.

“Okay, what’s going on?” You ask.
Selene glares at you. It’s like being hissed at by a kitten, or growled at by a puppy: absolutely adorable. “You weren’t supposed to get up!” She says.

You raise an eyebrow. “So what was I supposed to do?” You ask, humouring the angry child.
“You were s’posed to stay asleep, an’ then I could get up, and you an’ Laura could do adult stuff. Like hugging and kissing!” She says.

You laugh and rub her head. “Ah, sweet child. Your dastardly plan had but one foil…” You say.
“What’s that?” She asks.
“I’m a lighter sleeper than you’ll ever be.” You say, then you bend over and shake Laura. “Hey, time to get up. Eleanor is making breakfast.” You say.

Selene’s eyes light up. “Breakfast!” She says, and then she runs off.

Laura groans and rolls over… right off the bedroll and onto the cold ground. “Wha-…?” She looks around groggily, but her expression changes to a bright smile when she sees you. “Oh, good morning Giles!” She says, hopping to her feet.

“Good morning.” You say.
“I didn’t oversleep and miss something, did I?” She asks.
“Just the day’s planning.” You say.
“And what is the plan?”
“I’m heading into Searise to see Melissa, the rest of you are waiting outside until I get back.” You say.
“You’re going alone?” Her shoulders drop, and she frowns. “I was hoping to see Melissa as well…”

>[ ] You could probably come as well

>[ ] No dice. I operate best alone.

>[ ] Other

>>39227458
>[ ] No dice. I operate best alone.
I don't want you to get recognized again

>>39227458
>No dice, remember last time? You might get to see her later though, and I'll tell her you said hi.

>>39227458
>[ ] No dice. I operate best alone.

>>39227496
what he said

>>39227458
>[ ] No dice. I operate best alone, and you get recognized every time.
>[ ] If you want me to tell her anything, I could do that.

>>39227458
>[ ] No dice. I operate best alone.
but you'll be the first person to come for me if it seems like I might be in trouble.

>>39227496
Backing this

>>39227458
>[ ] No dice. I operate best alone.

"If everything in Searise is as it should be, we all might get a chance to see her.

But right now we don't know how far word has spread, or if they're already expecting us and got Melissa out of the way."

>>39227496
>>39227510
[ ] I’d be fine with that
again we solo this, even if there might be a romance flag somewhere in the mission

>>39227458
>[ ] No dice. I operate best alone.
>"If things go as I hope you will get to see her, but before we know how things are in Searise taking you with me is just an unnecessary risk"

>writing

“No dice. Until we have a better idea of what’s going on in Searise, it’ll be better if I go in alone. If all is well then I’ll come give you guys the all-clear.” You say.

“But you’re hurt…” She says.
“That didn’t stop me from busting you guys out last night. Besides, this works out pretty well. If Father Pitre is there, then he can fix me right up.” You say.
“He can?” She asks.
You nod. “Father Pitre knows how to directly enchant wounds with Mending Touch.” You say.

And it’s a damn good thing he does, too. You can’t even count the number of times Father Pitre fixed you up when you came home with scrapes or bruises or broken bones. Especially after the Red Night, the time you’ve ever felt worse than you do now…

As you head back to the campfire, Laura grills you for info on how Pitre can enchant flesh. But it’s all info you don’t have. You never really bothered asking him how he did it, and it was only when you started learning magic that you figured out how strange it was.

Looks like Melissa isn’t the only one she’ll be wanting to see…

>[1/2]

>>39227877
>“But you’re hurt…” She says.
Bitch whose fault was that?

>>39227988
we totally slipped onto that arrow

>>39227988
Don't forget the leg wound that still hasn't fully healed.

Everyone else is already sitting around the fire. Eleanor threw together a very ‘meat and potatoes’ kind of breakfast; which is to say that it’s literally meat and potatoes.

Laura seems quiet, but she’s probably contemplating how Pitre does his magic. Cedric and Dalen have already finished eating and are off to the side sparring. Zen and Marcellus are talking about something quietly. And Eleanor is with Selene, trying to make her slow down so she doesn’t choke…

>[ ] Watch the sparring-

>[ ] Talk to Marcellus and Zen-

>[ ] Help Eleanor-

>[ ] Talk to Laura-

>[ ] Do nothing-

>-while you eat

>>39228060
Also kinda her fault.

>>39228070
>>[ ] Help Eleanor while you eat

>>39227995
How pissed is Melissa going to be when she finds out that Laura shot us?

>>39228070
Re-enchant our daggers

>>39228070
>[ ] Talk to Marcellus and Zen-

Operation expose the reverse trap begins.

>>39228070
>[ ] Help Eleanor-
then story time with Selene and Eleanor, we can just say we heard rumor of how it happen if Eleanor stays or that you just made it up.
>>39228093
I want to read her reaction now!

>>39228128
This while trying to help eleanor in between daggers.

>>39228070
>>[ ] Talk to Marcellus and Zen-

>writing

You head over to where Eleanor and Selene are, and take a seat next to Selene.
“Selene, slow down!” Eleanor says.
“But ish sho goob!” She says with a mouthful of food.
Eleanor groans, and you chime in. “If you like it so much, then you should take some time to enjoy it.” You say, taking a bite out of your own food. It’s a bit salty for your own tastes, but it does the trick.

Selene swallows, and starts coughing.
“This is why I said to slow down…” Eleanor says, rubbing her temples.
You laugh and pat Selene on the back as she coughs out whatever’s getting her.
Then Laura walks over. “She’s right sweetie” Laura says, bending down to eye level with Selene. “You need to slow down or you’ll get hurt.”
Selene pouts. “Kay…”
Laura smiles and sits next to you, and Selene resumes eating, but she’s actually eating at a normal pace this time.

“Here” Laura says, holding out a hand. “I took the heads off some of my damaged shafts. They won’t fly like your daggers, but if you need to enchant something they’ll do the trick.”

You take the crystal arrowheads from Laura and thank her.

The rest of your mealtime passes with little else of note happening. Though you do get to watch Dalen send Cedric to the ground in multiple different ways, which was entertaining.

>Anything else you guys want to do before heading to Searise?

>>39228549
Nope

>>39228549
See if Marcellus can do last min patch ups.

>>39228549
No, let's go see best girl.

>>39228549
Enchant a few arrowheads/daggers

>>39228549
Tell Selene not to cause any trouble while we're away. Jokingly, of course.

>>39228595
backing.

>writing

“Well, best start getting ready.” You say, standing up and wiping your hands together. “Thank you for breakfast Eleanor.”
“Don’t mention it. I have to do something around here.” She says.
You smile at her and head over to Marcellus, who is now alone as Zen went off to do something else.

“Hey” You say.
“Hey, what’s up?” He asks.
“Since I’m going off alone, do you think I need any last minute patches?” You ask.
“You shouldn’t… but it doesn’t hurt to check. Over here.” He says, leading you over to where he set up his own bedroll.

You take the time to enchant the arrowheads that Laura gave you while he checks over your back. The focusing aspect of it is definitely much simpler now than it was before. Once you’re done, you lie down and he checks your leg.

“No, it all looks good. You didn’t push yourself as much yesterday as you had the day before. So you just have to make sure you don’t push yourself today either.” He says.

“I’ll try not to.” You say. “Thanks again.”
“Think nothing of it.” He says.

>[1/2]

You head back to where you were and start saying your farewells.

It’s not particularly tear-jerking, since you’re going into what is likely to be friendly territory, but some people still look sad to see you go.

Mostly Selene and Laura.

“Now, you be good. Don’t cause your sister any trouble while I’m gone, okay?” You ask.
“Kay.” Selene says, her face buried in the leg she’s hugging.

Laura pries Selene off and picks her up, before pecking you on the cheek. “Good luck. Tell Melissa I said hi.” She says.
“That I can do.” You say. Then you head on your way.

It takes a few hours walking to actually reach Searise. Unlike the other towns you’ve passed, Searise is the first actual coastal town on the south road. In fact, it’s built on the shallows between the south coast and a small island.

There are proper roads on the island and mainland parts of the town, but the only way through the watery parts of the town are via boat.

So you have two jobs now, find a boat to get to the island on, and find Melissa’s manor once you’re there…

>Roll 1d20
>No failures, this will determine how long it takes you

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>39229076

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>39229076
speedboat spawn

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>39229076

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>39229076

>>39229095
thank you anon

>>39229095
Seems like it did

>>39229095
We are the mother fuckin Flash fastest man alive!

>>39229126
we are also injured

>>39229095
Giles, Master Thief, Professional Dancer, Wooer of Princess', Surrogate Father Extraordinare, and Inventor of the Motor Boat.

>>39229162
>wooer of princess'
Don't even fucking start

>>39229162
You forgot Would-be Cripple.

>>39229162
master of knitting.

>writing

>>39229208
>Wooer of Princess'
See
>Surrogate Father Extraordinare

I don't think it was his intention to imply that we want to romance the daughteru.

Astounding. I love nat 20s early in a thread.

>>39229229
Embroidering or sewing would be better as we haven't seen Giles Knit

>>39229208
Why? Because we struck a nerve that made her turtle up, until the next morning, when everything was resolved? People have issues man, no reason to reject the prospect of a relationship that can help her grow.

>>39229246
No, its because I don't want fags like >>39229282 popping up.

>>39229282
sorry m8 but i prefer the girl who kept our devil status a secret for years over the girl who shoots us with arrows

File: 1423788095282.gif (1.16 MB, 480x288)

1.16 MB GIF

Could this be a love triangle?

>>39229338
She didn't know we were a Devil until recently, I thought.

>>39229282
It might be the part where she literally stabbed us in the back.

>>39229312
No need to be an asshole about it.

>>39229374
wrong. she noticed when we saved her as a kid

>>39229374
Yeah, I think it's something she was suspicious about, but couldn't confirm.
Also
>>39229312
Wow. Shots fired. Bravo.

>>39229365
Having both Melissa and Laura would be acceptable, but someone's mad no matter the outcome, even with sharing.

This is why waifufags are the worst, and why Selene is the best girl.

>>39229411
>>39229374
Nah she knew all along. reread thread 8

You head into the town and go straight to the docks. You can follow the walkways for a while, but at some point you’ll need to find yourself a boat if you ever want to find Melissa.

…

Or not. You recognize that head of red hair anywhere. It’s Melissa, in a small-ish boat being poled up the channel by a man who you recognize as the one who made your suit.

You decide to hop onto her boat and surprise her.

She looks up in surprise at the sudden intrusion. “Wha- who-…. GILES?!?” She exclaims.
You smile.
She jumps up and hugs you, causing the boat to rock in a way that makes you uncomfortable. “Oh you’re alive! And you’re here!” She says, squeezing you with all of her might.

Right over the spot where the arrow hit you…
Ow, owowowowowow. “Okay, maybe a little lighter on the hugging.” You say.
She pulls away and looks at you in confusion, then realization dawns on her face and she gasps. “You’re not hurt are you?” She asks.
“A little…” You say.
“Sorry!” She says, hugging you again with her arms placed differently. “Coswell, take us back to the manor. Pronto.” She says.
“YYyyyyyyeesss M’lady.” Coswell says.

Melissa releases you and sits back down, motioning for you to do the same.

She looks at you expectantly...

>[ ] Tell her your story

>[ ] Let her tell hers first

>[ ] Other

>>39229429
I don't care who or who isn't romanced, as long as its not Laura.

>>39229474
>[ ] Tell her your story

>>39229429
The one girl everyone can agree on, it seems. Hence our role as surrogate father/sensei

>>39229474
>[ ] Let her tell hers first

"Please tell me things are relatively okay here."

>>39229474
>>[ ] Let her tell hers first

>>39229489
gay

>>39229474
>[ ] Tell her your story

>>39229510
>liking back stabbing insane sluts
Cuck

>>39229474
>[ ] Tell her your story

>>39229474
>>[ ] Tell her your story

>>39229510
>>39229563
oi quit being assholes

>>39229580
This is 4chan.

>>39229474
>>[ ] Let her tell hers first

>>39229563
Seriously, this anti-laura hate is just flying into stupidity.

>>39229580
Quit being a bitch

>>39229563
Where did you get the idea that I like her? I just think you're taking this too personally.

>>39229610
No more than the pro-Laura apologists.

>>39229622
Maybe a girl he liked literally stabbed him in the back and it brings back bad memories?

>>39229622
Considering you called me gay for not liking Laura, the implication being that you like Laura. I don't take anything on 4chan personally.

>writing

>The discussion is nice, but could we try to keep it civil?

>>39229651
I thought your statement, which seemed intentional for riling up Laurafags, was gay. I'm pro-Selene; no one else matters.

>>39229673
>civil
>waifus
You poor fool.

>>39229673
Sadly, it all comes down to the arrow. If that arrow wasn't in the picture, if she just yelled at Giles to stop, distracting him form killing the guy, no one would care.

But the fact that she's being called a backstabbing cunt is just fucking awful.

>>39229726
you beat me to it anon

>>39229673
It's 4chan talking about Waifu's as much as i'd like it to stay civil It likely won't happen.

Now for the related topic
1. Melissa has known us longer and hasn't betrayed us so she's cool with me

2. Laura didn't know us for more than a couple of day's and you expect her to trust us over a man she loved and had a kid with? Dumb even if we were the ones with her best interest at heart she's had more time invested with him.

3. Laura is now attached to us and therefore will not likely betray us in the future. (so she's neutral to me at this point still kinda pissed about the arrow though)

>>39229698
>no one else matters.

I can see everyone dying. Which results in a grizzled Giles trying to help a sneaky Selene reclaim what is rightfully her Kingdom.

Would play.

>>39229787
10/10 would play as well.

“I suppose you want to know how I got here.” You say.
Melissa smiles, crosses her legs, and places her hands on her knee.

You’ll take that as a yes.

You tell her just about everything, abridging the bits you don’t want to say in public, and leaving out anything she doesn’t need to know.

“So where did you get wounded?” She asks, a look of concern on her face.
“In Catisse. The guards were less than kind.” You say. “And another more recently.”
“How’d that one happen?” She asks.
“I was shot by-… someone.” You say.
Melissa raises an eyebrow. “Shot by… who exactly?” She asks.

You were hoping she wouldn’t catch that…
“…Laura” You say.
That surprises her. “An accident?”

>[ ] … no

>[ ] Yes

>[ ] Other

>>39229787
>Selene dies in the attempt because of Giles

>>39229805
>[ ] … no

>>39229785
>2. Laura didn't know us for more than a couple of day's and you expect her to trust us over a man she loved and had a kid with? Dumb even if we were the ones with her best interest at heart she's had more time invested with him.

>3. Laura is now attached to us and therefore will not likely betray us in the future. (so she's neutral to me at this point still kinda pissed about the arrow though)

Glad someone fuckin' said it.

>>39229805
>[X] … no
No lying to imouto

>>39229805
>>[ ] … no

>>39229805
>[ ] Was about to kill her old flame, and she didn't take it well. We've already buried the hatchet.

>>39229805
>[ ] … no
Let the drama unroll

>>39229805
>[ ] … no

>>39229805
>[] ... no
I'd say Melissa is trustworthy enough
Also, our concerns and goals don't necessarily align with those of Laura and co

>>39229805
>...no, but it was a heat of the moment thing.

>>39229831
>But she's your onee-chan

>writing

>>39229785
I'm under the impression the haters only want to fuck with the quest.

>>39229860
nah i think it's just players who get angry really easily

>>39229831
More like onee-san, she's older than us by 2 years

>>39229853
>Main goal: Have Selene as your companion

>>39229856
I'd back this.

>>39229856
>implying that changes anything

>>39229857
But she's pure enough to be an imouto.

>>39229892
If I didn't mean to imply it, I wouldn't have elaborated.

>>39229860
>haters
No, I love this quest and want it to continue. I also hate Laura and want her to die.

>>39229860
>>39229870
Never fails. You introduce potential love interests, you stir up drama, people rage. If this was a book, they'd go on a forum. As a quest that they can influence? I don't even need to continue.

For how much Selene is probably the most important character of the bunch, it really irks me how much of our interactions revolve around, or end up resulting in more interaction with, the waifu characters.

Hell, most of the NPC's we hardly interact with outside of events not within our control.

>>39229860
I don't think so. I think as far as reasons to hate a person go, deliberately shooting you in the back is remarkably reasonable.

>>39229916
Well....I like Laura just as a friend.

>>39229948
Likewise. She's torpedo'd her waifu chances, but I can look past this issue enough to remain friendly with her. I'm not that vindictive.

>>39229785
>2. Laura didn't know us for more than a couple of day's and you expect her to trust us over a man she loved and had a kid with? Dumb even if we were the ones with her best interest at heart she's had more time invested with him.
dude he was about to attack her and bring her back to the castle

“… no” you mumble.

“What was that? It sounded almost like you said no. Surely she wouldn’t have shot you on purpose.” She says.
“She did, but-“

Melissa smiles. You know that smile. Good things do not come of that smile. “Coswell, turn the boat around.” She says.
“Yes m’lady?” Coswell says.
“Giles here is going to show me where his group is camped out.” She says.
“Yes m’lady.”

“Coswell no! Melissa, please understand. It was a heat of the moment thing.” You say.
Melissa does not drop the smile. “And just what sort of situation could justify her shooting you, Giles?”
You explain what was happening at the time, leaving out some choice details. “So basically, the situation asked her to choose: me or him. And she chose.” You say.

Melissa is still smiling. “Not feeling the excuse. Coswell, take us back to shore.” She says.

>[ ] I’m not leading you back to them like this.

>[ ] Just promise me you won’t hurt her…

>[ ] Other

File: good news.gif (1.16 MB, 480x357)

1.16 MB GIF

>>39229933
I agree; it's all about the daughter, and there's never enough.

>>39229969
Heat of the moment, lines get blurry, logic takes a backseat (temporarily). Things change when we're staring down people we care/cared about.

>>39229979
>[ ] I’m not leading you back to them like this.
protective waifu is best waifu

>>39229979
>[ ] I’m not leading you back to them like this.

I've bled too much to keep them alive and I won't let you make that all worthless.
>>39229969
Yeah, and she didn't know what to do he was trying to talk her down then we jumped in and she saw her old flame in trouble so she shot.

>>39229979
>[ ] I’m not leading you back to them like this.
For one thing, , she can work it out when they come into the city anyway (and she's had a chance to calm down). Second, thats just going to put her in danger anyway, fraternizing outside the walls with fugitives.

>>39229979
>>[ ] I’m not leading you back to them like this.

>>39229979
>[ ] I’m not leading you back to them like this.

>>39229979
>>[ ] I’m not leading you back to them like this.
There's no need to drag Selene or the others into this. If you want to talk to her, wait a while and invite them to your mansion. It's better because
1.) easier to get Laura alone and
2.) it's home ground for you.

>>39229979
>>[ ] Just promise me you won’t hurt her…
Am I really the only one who wants to see Melissa chew out Laura?

>>39230046
it's gonna happen no matter what, i'd just rather it happen later

>>39230046
I dont think we actually have any say in that at this point.

>>39230046
I don't think most of us would mind that. The concern is that she'll critically injure or possible kill Laura out of vengance.

>>39230046
Who's to say it won't happen? Only difference is immediacy, I believe.

>>39230046
I'm sick of interaction with them.

>>39229979
>[X] I’m not leading you back to them like this.

As much as I want to see Onee-chan beat the shit out of Laura, we have business here.

>>39230059
I don't think Melissa would do something like that.
>>39230055
>>39230062
Oh, fair enough then. I can wait.

Honestly, I just want to get back to saving the kingdom.

Also I just realized we might've torpedoed a possible alliance. Melissa's not gonna want to help Laura out now and we'll probably get ran out of the city.

>writing

>>39230116
Same here, I want to know what's going on in the kingdom and our situation and possible alliances. Don't get me wrong still looking forward to the fight, but we need to cool her down.

>>39229979
>>[ ] Just promise me you won’t hurt her…

>>39230168
*I want to know what's going on in the kingdom, our situation, and possible alliances

>>39230168
I'm sincerely thinking this vendetta anons have against Laura now is going to cause us nothing but issues down the line- issues that we probably really wouldn't want. I'm trying to think more long-term.

>>39230199
just because we don't want to romance her doesn't mean we have a vendetta

>>39230220
Indeed, but I'm talking about the more murdeous-sounding anons. I'm perfectly fine with keeping her at arm's length, so to speak.

It was so nice before Melissa and Laura arrived.

>>39230252
The one who suggested that last thread was just a pro-laura anon trying to make us look bad

>>39229979
>Other.

"There’s more to it, but I have to tell you privately. No offense to you, Coswell, but some things you don't want to know."

Once we have her alone and use magic to soundproof our immediate vicinity, we tell her that Salem was also Selene's father.

>>39230267
How can you tell?

>>39230287
he admitted it

>>39230292
Really? When?

File: 1418231806390.jpg (17 KB, 240x320)

17 KB JPG

>>39230252
>>39230252
Why get rid of a magick archer

>>39230309
in the last thread obviously

>>39230285
>Once we have her alone and use magic to soundproof our immediate vicinity, we tell her that Salem was also Selene's father.
No. I am not saying I don't trust Melissa with this secret. But it isn't our secret to trust her with.

“Melissa, I’m not leading you back to them when you’re like this.” You say.
Melissa stares at you for a moment, and then she purses her lips in disappointment. “Fine… take us to the manor Coswell.” She says.
“Yes m’lady”

"Someone seems to have grown a little attached to the young lady" Melissa says, smiling deviously.
"It's not like that, I just don't want you to kill her in front of her sister." You say.
"It's not..." She smiles more genuinely "Good. And I wasn't going to kill her..." She says, sticking her tongue out at you

“So? How have things been on your end?” You ask once Coswell gets you moving again.
“Well enough. I’ve had birds going in and out constantly for the last few days trying to drum up some support.” She says.
“Support for what?” You ask.
“For Laura. I’m not the only ruling Lady who has a bone to pick with Roderick, and there are many more who have close personal ties with Harth.” She says. “I’m not about to abandon a dear friend while there are still things I can do.”

You raise an eyebrow at her.
“Oh what? Like I’m suddenly not friends with her because she shot you? Get over yourself. You’ve done plenty of things to earn that shot, I just don’t like the fact that she did it without knowing why you deserved it.” She says with a glare.

“Nice to see you too Melissa” You say.
She leans over and kisses you on the cheek. “It always is, isn’t it?” She laughs.

>[ ] Ask how if she’s come up with any allies

>[ ] Ask if Pitre would be willing to fix you up

>[ ] Ask how the orphanage is going

>[ ] Other

>>39230332
>[ ] Ask if Pitre would be willing to fix you up

>>39230332
>>[ ] Ask how if she’s come up with any allies
>[ ] Ask how the orphanage is going

>>39230332
>[ ] Ask if Pitre would be willing to fix you up
>[ ] Ask how if she’s come up with any allies
we can see the orphanage or ourselves when we get there

>>39230332
>[ ] Ask how if she’s come up with any allies
>[ ] Ask if Pitre would be willing to fix you up

>>39230332
>>[ ] Ask how if she’s come up with any allies
>>[ ] Ask if Pitre would be willing to fix you up

>>39230285
...and of course I was too slow.

Seriously, we need Melissa to not try to kill Laura. For one thing, it's up to her and Eleanor to try to teach Laura all the "being a mature adult" stuff that her teenage mother status kept her from learning, because Laura is a queen now and people will be depending on her.

This is also why Laura could make a decent friend but would be a terrible romantic partner; for all that Giles is a year or two younger, he's also much more mature. It just wouldn't feel right to him.

...Selene can still think of us as her cool uncle, though.

Oh! We should also mention that we want to give the all clear to them to come into the city since the city's still under her command and she's down to help.

>>39230384
just read the most recent update anon

>>39230332
>Ask about the orphanage
>Ask about allies
>Ask about exactly what went down after the assassination, and whether she had any trouble escaping Rick the Dick
>Show her what we lifted for the Gambler's final heist

>>39230370
>we can see the orphanage or ourselves when we get there
Is that a good idea? We will leave that place covered in orphans.

>>39230420
>Rick the Dick

ha. I like that.

>>39230394
Yeah, I didn't see it until after my post. If I was an avatarfag I'd be hanging my head in shame and adorning all my posts with Slowpoke at this point.

>writing

She lingers by you for a moment, brushing her cheek against yours just slightly before pulling away. You can’t help but notice how nice she smells as she sits back down. Like flowers, though you couldn’t say which one specifically…

“You have any trouble getting out of the palace?” You ask, forcing away undue thoughts about how she smells.
“A little. They told me that I wouldn’t be allowed to leave until they had caught Laura. I told them how quickly my merchant fleet could turn into a navy in the event that I didn’t return. They kindly let me be on my way.” She says.

“You can do that?” You ask.
She smiles. “Most of my captains and a good portion of my crews are veteran sailors from the war with Delemur. A lot of my ships used to belong to the royal navy. I kept the old weapons that were on them before I converted them, so it’s a simple matter to convert them back.” She says.

“When did you think you’d have a use for warships?” You ask.
“Now? Honestly, I had no idea. I just thought it would be a useful thing to have around.” She says.

>[1/2]

“What about your search for allies?” You ask.
“That’s gone surprisingly well. Though they aren’t going to do anything yet, many of them have promised to go to the little get-together going on in Harth soon.” She says.

“There’s a get together going on in Harth?” You ask
She nods. “King Julian is gathering potential allies. He’s already given his ultimatum to ‘Lord’ Roderick. He has… I think one week to hand Louis and Louise over, or he declares war.”

“Laura did say that the King wouldn’t like how things here were going.” You say.
“King Julian is a stubborn man. But he’s likeably stubborn. The kind of guy who gets stuck on good things instead of bad.” Melissa says.

“Speaking of stubborn old guys, do you think Father Pitre would be willing to patch me up?” You ask.
“Certainly.” Melissa says, as the boat comes to a stop. “Here we are, I’m afraid we’re on foot from here. That won’t be a problem will it?” She asks.
“No. That’s the beauty of always having a cane: it’s always there when you need it.” You say, hopping off the boat first so you can help Melissa off.

>[ ] Go see Father Pitre first

>[ ] See if you can send a message to the others first

>[ ] Do a different thing first

>>39230693

>[ ] See if you can send a message to the others first

>>39230693
>[ ] See if you can send a message to the others first

>>39230693
>Message
>Pitre
Hopefully, we can meet up with them by the time we're healed up.

>>39230693
>>[ ] See if you can send a message to the others first

Then healing.

>>39230693
>[ ] See if you can send a message to the others first

>>39230693
>[ ] Go see Father Pitre first

>>39230693
>Message to the others
>Heal up
>Visit Klaus

>>39230693
>[ ] See if you can send a message to the others first

>writing

>>39230742
>>Visit Klaus
Oh, is he buried here? Or was that just a mix up?

>>39230850
I'm guessing he is. I could be wrong, of course.

>>39230850
>>39230908
giles keeps him in the cloak

>>39230908
He isn't. They buried him near the place where he died.

>>39230920
I'm not even sure where to begin denying this

She hooks an arm over yours as the two of you make your way up the docks and over to the island proper.

“Would there be any way I could get a message back to the others?” You ask.
“Yeah, why?” She asks.
“Sssso they can come here too?” You say.
“Oh, I get it. You came to scope things out. Did you think I was no longer in charge or something?” She asks.

“It was a possibility…” You say.
“I’m a bit more careful than that.” She says.
“I know you are but… still, that doesn’t mean I’m not allowed to worry.” You say.
Melissa looks genuinely surprised. “You…” She smiles warmly “… thank you” She says.

Melissa is quiet for the rest of the walk to her manor, but you can’t help but notice her blushing and glancing at you every now and again.

When you reach the manor, you point out the spot where the others are waiting for you on a map, and she heads off after telling you where to find Father Pitre.

You can do this Giles. He isn't going to kill you.

Not at all…

>[ ] Go see him now

>[ ] Wait for Melissa so you’ll have backup

>>39230959
>[ ] Go see him now
we got this

>>39230959
>[ ] Go see him now

>>39230959
>>[ ] Go see him now
We gonna die

>>39230959
>>[ ] Go see him now

>>39230959
>[ ] Go see him now

>>39230959
>[ ] Wait for Melissa so you’ll have backup

"There have been many moments I've pushed aside my fear to do the right thing. This particular moment, fear is proving rather stubborn."

>>39230959
>[ ] Go see him now

Into the breach!

i feel like melissa would hold us in place while pitre disciplined us

>writing

>>39231025
She would look on and laugh
Or help the good father kick our ass

You take a deep breath and walk down the hallway.

Melissa said that Father Pitre would be watching the younger children with Kevin out behind the manor.

You can’t believe Kevin is still around. He was what… 7 years old when you left? That’d make him around 13 now. You never thought you’d be seeing him again. Hopefully he’s kicked his old habit of kicking you in the shins.

You exit the manor through the back door, and you’re met with a wonderful sight. The gardens back here are beautiful, and there are all sorts little kids running around and playing.

Keeping an eye on them from a chair off to one side is a man you could never forget. He still looks about a head taller than you even now, and his shoulders are easily twice as broad. It doesn’t look like he’s lost any of his edge over the years, though his once brown hair is turning gray, and his once dark tan has lightened a few shades.

When he looks up from watching the children play and sees you, his jaw drops.

“Is that… could it be… Giles?” He asks.
“In the flesh” You say, waving to him nonchalantly.
“Giles! I haven’t seen you in years, come here!” He says, throwing his arms wide open.

Were it any other person, this would be a form of greeting, or a welcoming gesture…
You take another deep breath and approach him to return his ‘hug’.

“Accept my punishment?” You ask as you feel his arms around you.
“ACCEPT YOUR PUNISHMENT!!!” He roars. And then you feel the very life being crushed from your body.

>BAD END

lol, jk [1/2]

>>39231320
>Hopefully he’s kicked his old habit of kicking you in the shins.
There is no way we are not getting kicked in the shins.

>>39231320
>Father Pitre
>Not even the devil's whim can save Giles from him

File: Anderson.jpg (21 KB, 640x360)

21 KB JPG

>>39231320
>“ACCEPT YOUR PUNISHMENT!!!” He roars. And then you feel the very life being crushed from your body.

AAAAAAMEEENNN

Then he drops you, and you break out into a fit of coughing.

“Nice to see you too.” You say between coughs.
“Very good Giles. You faced that as a man should.” He says, offering you a hand up.

Once you’re standing, he extends his other hand.
You accept his handshake, but as you open your mouth to speak you feel a sharp pain in the back of your injured leg that sends you right back down to the ground.

“That’s for making Melissa cry!” Someone shouts.
“Kevin! Stop that! He has already been punished.” Pitre shouts.
“Not enough.” Kevin says.

Kevin you little shit I swear by all that is holy I am going to break your fucking face oh gods this hurts fuckfuckfuckfuckfuckfuck

“Giles… are you alright?” Pitre asks.
Your answer is strained. “No… thanks for asking.”

Kevin suddenly looks very guilty, but Father Pitre gets right down to work. “Kevin, keep an eye on the children. I’m going to take him off to see to his injuries.” He says, lifting you right off the ground and throwing you over his shoulder like he used to when you were a kid

He puts you down on a bed in what appears to be an infirmary, and tells you to strip so he can see your injuries.

You do so, and his brow furrows with concern. “Giles, have you been up to no good again?” He asks.

>[ ] You know me

>[ ] I’ve been rescuing princesses

>[ ] Other

>>39231419
>[ ] I’ve been rescuing princesses

>>39231419
> I've been rescuing princesses

>>39231419
>...I've been up to SOME good, at least.

>>39231419
>>[ ] I’ve been rescuing princesses

"No, seriously, they should be here before too long."

>>39231419
>>[ ] You know me
>>[ ] I’ve been rescuing princesses
>whynotboth.jpg

>>39231419
>[ ] I’ve been rescuing princesses

>>39231419
I've been up to some good
but mostly bad

>>39231419
>[ ] I’ve been rescuing princesses
>inb4 Giles have an alias called Mario

>>39231419
>Rescuing Princesses
and
>...I've been up to SOME good, at least.
I like this too.

>>39231419
>[ ] You know me
>[ ] Other
>I stole two princesses, I've gotten worse.

>>39231419
>>39231447
>I've been up to some good
Whatever we say it needs this line.

>>39231419
>[ ] I’ve been rescuing princesses

>>39231447
also something about his good deeds caused his injuries

>writing

“Oh come on, you know me.” You say as he begins to work his magic on your leg. “If I were up to no good I’d be in tip top shape right now. I only get injured like this when I’m doing good things.”

“So what have you been doing?” He asks.
“Rescuing princesses” You say.
“Sarcasm?”
“No. They’ll be coming here soon, actually.”

“So you are a part of it…” He says.
“What was that?” You ask.
“Melissa mentioned that you might be a part of what was happening at the palace. I’m not going to bother asking what you were doing there.” He says.
“You know me…” You say.
“But at the very least…” He stops working, knocks off your hat and ruffles your hair. “Be careful. Melissa told me what happened to Klaus. I’ll be damned if I see the same thing happen to you.” He says.

“You aren’t mad about that?” You ask.
“I could be, but anger towards you would accomplish nothing. You and Klaus were always inseparable. It wounds my heart to know that he has left you behind.” He says.

You feel his words like a dagger in the heart… You can feel something coming on, and you aren’t sure if you can stop it…

>[ ] Let it out

>[ ] Hold it in

>>39231693
>[ ] Let it out

>>39231693
>>[ ] Let it out

>>39231693
Hmmm...is it anger? I hope not.

>[ ] Let it out

>>39231693

>"he has left you behind.”

Whoop. There's the rub.

>>39231693
>[ ] Let it out
Hug your father figure

>>39231693
>[ ] Let it out

>writing

Is that why you feel so shitty all the damn time?
Is that why no matter how much you do for fun, it never feels right?
Is that why even after killing the absolute shit out of the dirtbag that did him in, you still feel angry?

That’s the truth of it. No matter how much you may try to shove it down under all of your other shit, the truth will always be that he’s gone.

Klaus, your best friend, is gone forever.

No amount of vengeance, comfort, or petty thievery can ever change that fact.

You take a deep breath in, but it comes out shaky.
“It’s alright Giles. You should never be afraid to cry around family.” Pitre says.

You look at him in awe. The pain in your back, your leg and your shoulder is gone. He’s done with them, and now he’s moving on to the deeper wounds.

You laugh, but the laughter quickly turns into sobbing. Father Pitre wraps you into a tight hug.

You feel like you’re a kid again, but it feels good. You didn’t really get to spend a lot of time as a kid.
Maybe Laura isn't the only one who had to grow up too fast…

As you’re thinking that, someone comes in through the door. “Giles I se-“ She stops as soon as she sees you. “Are… are you okay?” She asks.

Father Pitre releases you. “I’ll let you take over.” He says, leaving the room.

>[ ] I’m fine…

>[ ] Fuck it, keep going

>>39231940
>>[ ] Fuck it, keep going

>>39231940
>>[ ] Fuck it, keep going

>>39231940
>[ ] I’m fine…

"Just...dealing with some hard memories." Some sniffles and stuff.

>>39231940
I am torn between letting Melissa sees our soft side and this>>39231965

>>39231940
>[ ] Fuck it, keep going

Probably a stupid question but it was Laura who came in the door right?

>>39231940
>Fuck it, keep going

This is something Giles has been putting off for far too long.

>>39231987
Damn I really hope it's melissa

>>39231940
>Fuck it, keep going

>>39232001
>>39231987
It doesn't matter.

>>39232012
Yeah it does. Melissa actually knew klaus.

>writing

>>39232031
We did pour our heart out about Klaus when we stayed in the inn with Laura, though.

>>39232094
I don't even think it's possible for laura and the gang to already be here

>>39231987
Nah. It was melissa about to say that she sent the message
>“Giles I se-“

Father Pitre exits the room and you’re left alone with Melissa. A part of you wants to bottle it all back up, but…

You should never be afraid to cry around family

You decide not to stop. If you stop now, you’ll probably never get another chance to let all of this out.

Melissa gasps as you hunch over and keep crying. Then she rushes over and takes Pitre’s place, wrapping her arms around you and pulling you into her chest.

“It’s okay…” She says, gently stroking your hair. “You’re okay…”
You can’t put your finger on why, but you like this.

Melissa has always had a warmth to her that no one you’ve met has ever matched. Sure she burns hot every now and then, and when she does you tend to stay out of her way. But whenever she isn't mad, she's always got some warmth to share.

You like that about her…

It takes a while to finally dry your eyes, and when you do you look up at her. “Thank you…” you say.
She smiles at you, and sits down next to you on the infirmary bed.

“What was that about?” She asks, laying her head on your shoulder.
“I… I miss Klaus…” You say.
“I know you do” She says, leaning over a bit and wrapping her arms over your shoulder. “That’s why I’ll always be here for you. Whenever you want to stop, just remember that I’ll be here. This place can be your home just as much as it is mine… if you want…”

You put your own arm over her shoulder and lean your head onto hers. “That might be nice…”
“But all of that can wait until the rest of this business is done with, okay?” She asks.

“Yeah” You say.

That's all for tonight! I hope you guys still enjoy reading this as much as I enjoy writing it

The next thread may or may not be tomorrow. If it isn't, then it will probably be sometime this weekend.

I'll be here for a few minutes if anyone has questions.

>>39232184
Thanks for running.

>>39232184
Thank you for running

>>39232184
Well missed it but an excellent read as always nonetheless. You're a good storyteller Smiley