>>42145944

Here, in the white void, you have no body, no physical form at all. No neck for the precious pendant to dangle from, and no lips to ask the questions you're struggling to form. It's only with a great effort, focussing and forcing your mind to cooperate, that you can think a simple question aloud.

Mother, you pronounce carefully, is that you?

“Amelia,” your mother says – she has a body, or at least the image of one – and takes a gliding step forwards, “I've missed you so much. I wondered, sometimes, if I'd ever see you again. But I knew, in my heart of hearts, that you'd make it here. You're a survivor, Amelia, that's how I raised you, after all.”

You're speechless, not surprisingly, and can do nothing but stare at the woman in front of you, studying her features for the slightest flaw, the slightest imperfection that might suggest an illusion. Yet, nothing seems wrong. She has the same long dark hair, longer now and tied back, and the same delicate features that you share. Yours are a little rougher, less refined than hers, but there is still a disarming similarity between your faces. People would often mention that, you recall, when they saw the pair of you together.

“That's right,”Lydia nods, plucking your thoughts out of the air, “Like two peas in a pod, they'd say.”

Who else would know that? Well, other than anyone with knowledge of what the two of you look like and a bit of intuition, that is – it's not a difficult guess. All your suspicions, on the other hand, can't dispel a simple fact – you want this to be the real thing.

You just don't know what to say.

>What is this place?
>What's happening to me?
>This isn't real. This can't be real.

>>42145951
>>What is this place?
>>What's happening to me?
"How are you here? What happened to you?"

>>42145944
>What is this place?
>What's happening to me?

>>42146072
>>42146088

What, you ask as you look numbly around the white void, is this place? Looking around feels strange, more like you're panning some invisible camera around than looking with your own eyes but there is no disorientation. Perhaps, without a physical form, you lack the capacity to feel disorientation.

“Outside,” Lydia answers vaguely, “I don't know much more than you do. This is a place beyond the reach of both angels and devils, but we still can't speak freely here. There will always be people – entities – listening in.”

Entities? You don't understand, what does she mean?

“There are those who want you to fail, Amelia,” the woman tells you, “And they'll do anything – I mean it – to stop you from going further down this path.”

Not devils, and not angels, but entities? Some new enemy, lurking within this white otherworld and drawing plans against you? You don't want to believe it, but sadly it's all too possible. You're at the point where anything would seem believable. That doesn't mean, on the other hand, that you're not going to search for answers.

What's happening, you ask the woman standing before you, what's going on? If you could, you would have gestured around you at the featureless white void surrounding you both, but the lack of any physical form prevents you. All you can do is think your questions aloud, and hope they cross the distance between you.

“I brought you here – your mind, at least – so we could talk,” your mother tells you, “I have that much power, at least. You're in no danger, for now, but we don't have long to talk. I... I wanted you to know that I was okay.”

That doesn't tell you much – that doesn't tell you anything! You try to protest, to plead for more answers, but your desperate words do not form.

>>42145951
>>What is this place?
>>What's happening to me?

>>42146267

“Please Amelia, we can talk more later! Now, we're running out of time!” Lydia's voice grows uneasy, and you can hear a faint rumbling in the distance. Already, you can feel a faint force tugging at your ephemeral body, much like the force that dragged you here in the first place. She's right – you're running out of time. You have, perhaps, the time for a few words, a question at the most. You wish you could offer your mother some heartfelt goodbye, but the need to be practical, to be pragmatic, rises up first. Heart or head?

>Any advice?
>I miss you
>Let her have the last word
>Other

>>42146293
>Any advice?

>>42146293
>I miss you

>>42146293
>>Any advice?
I think she knows we miss her. She probably feels the same way.

>>42146293
>>I miss you

>>42146293
>Any advice?
I think >>42146362 is right, this isn't the time to get sentimental

>>42146325
>>42146362
>>42146663

Any last words, you ask as you feel the void's grip on you start to fade, before cursing and rephrasing the question – any last advice? Sure, circumstances have changed, but you've always been able to rely upon your mother for a sensible word or two – even if “sensible” wasn't what you wanted to hear at the time.

“You're on a noble path,” Lydia tells you warmly, her voice growing more distant with each passing second, “Don't let doubt sway you. Stick on the path you've chosen – I promise you, we'll see each oth-”

Her last words fade into inaudibility, lost beneath the howling rumble as the void around you collapses. You're plunged into darkness once more, tumbling through a whole other kind of void, before the countless sensations of a physical body begin to creep back. You feel... pain. A stiff kind of soreness, like you've been lying in place for hours at a stretch. It reminds you of waking from a coma – a sensation you're far too familiar with – but it doesn't last. When your vision returns, you see the dusty floor of the cathedral in front of you, blurred by the film of tears in your eyes.

That's it then. You're finished here – at least, that's what you think to yourself until a booming voice echoes through the cathedral.

“Heretic!” Raphael shouts, “Did you think you can hide your deeds from the Lord? He has seen you, and now He sends me to cast judgement. Pray now, and pray well, for soon I shall deliver your soul to His kingdom!”

You knew there was something you'd forgotten about.

>>42146703

Creeping up to the balcony – a shattered hole marking the place where you punched Lilith off the walkway – you peer over and search for the wrathful Archangel. He's far below you, sword in hand as he stalks up and down the aisle. Even at this distance, you can see the blackened feathers drifting away from his wings, Lilith's lightning having ruined the once-beautiful limbs. At least he's grounded, that's one thing you don't have to deal with. Glancing down at the broken masonry that marks Lilith's landing spot, you mutter your thanks to the slain demon.

Quickly, you remind yourself of what you've got at hand, and what Raphael can do. He's dangerous in close combat and well-armoured, but as you've seen, lighting can do some serious damage. He has all the divine power you'd expect from an angel, but it takes him a brief moment to use it. Power like that can banish a devil in an instant, but Eligor is protected by one of Nebiros' totems and so he's likely to survive at least one blast of holy light. At the moment, you have Eligor and Pixie summoned, both ready for battle.

Forewarned is forearmed, or so they say – do people really say that these days? - and you're about as ready as you're going to get. Looks like it's time to make your move. There's a chance you could sneak out – Ripper can conjure up some magical darkness, you remind yourself – but Raphael has his own minions lurking outside. On the other hand, you could fight. Big risk, but you wouldn't have to worry about the Archangel chasing you.

>Try and sneak out
>Fight Raphael
>Other

>>42146703
W͓̣͇͉̬̙̏ͮ̒ͯ̍̍̚E͔͚͖͍ͧ̆ͮ̆̀'̴̷̬̗̫̱̼͚̝͌ͯ̊̿L̰̏͌͌̈́ͮ̚͜͡͞L̷͉̘͙̱̝͍͒̅̒̈̒ͭ̅ ̴̘͓͌ͦ̅͛̀̈ͫ͜S̘ͪ̓̄ͧ͡A͓̘̙̳̐̅C̸̵̛̠͑͌ͥŘ͕͎̻͋̇ͬ͒̃I̮̱̺̳̅̓̏͌ͧ̍F̡̝̀ͮ̉̅̽́Ḯ̧̛͕̹̪̱̦͙͚͚͎ͧͭͫͬ̾͑͟Cͣ̅ͪ͛̀͏̠̯͖͖̲̘E̙̫̯͚̮̤̟̎ͯ͒̃ͭ̾̿̀́͞ ̲̣͈̠̦̺̖̰̯͗́ͬͥ̿͂̚͟T̫̲̗̋͊͟͞H̶̘̱̠̭͉̉ͩ́̓͆̀͡E̩̹̞̙̮̰̠̬̮͂ͤ̚̕͢ ̫͓͇͙̳̭̯̊̎ͧ̅͐͆ͨͭ͢S̑̐̂̍̃̏ͫ̚҉̴̮̣͝Õ̷̧͈̬̭͈͛N̙͇̗ͩ̔ͤ̓̾ ̷̛̝͕̝͔͚̫̘̼̀ͪͅƠ̸̷̮͉̻͈͎̦̳͓͛͒̊ͪ̐̃̓̊͊F̧̼͙͙͚̄͆͗ͨ͋ ̛̠͍̟̱͔͖̈́̓ͬ̈́ͩͭ͡Hͨ̅̿̂͏͈̮̮̺̫͈̯̮̗E̷͉͔̗̪̘͎ͥ̀̂͗̄ͥ͡A̳̻̘̱̠͙͊̔͑͢͠V̀̊͜҉̬̻E̳͙̘͎̥̪̗͎̐̈̾ͮ̂̒͞N̵̬͔̯͓͍̞̝ͦ

>>42146746
>>Fight Raphael
Ok we have the high ground and surprise. Summon Pixie and Valkyrie for one lighting strike volley, then switch Valk out for Eligor.

>>42146746
>>Fight Raphael

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>>42146795
>>42146746
I'll second this. Normally I'd rather avoid a fight but I don't want to fight two Archangels at the next cornerstone.

>>42146764
>mfw

>>42146746
>>42146795
This

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Rolled 85 (1d100)

>>42146962
>>42146838
>>42146795
>>42146826

There's no point in backing down now. Chances are, you'll need to fight Raphael sooner or later – you can't very well imagine him just forgetting all about you – so you might as well do it now. You've got the drop on him here and between Pixie and Valkyrie, you can muster a fairly good volley of lightning. Then, when Raphael is (hopefully) stunned, you can call up Eligor and lead the charge. It's a sound plan – not bad for a few moments of thought – and you hastily move your troops into position.

The stage is set, and all the pieces are in place. Raphael stalks between the rows of pews, sword gripped in his fist and trailing a mystical breeze behind him. It's like a wind from some heavenly mountain, scented with an inhuman perfume, but you don't find yourself reassured. The time, you tell yourself, is now. Clenching your own fist and readying your smartphone, you whistle loudly. Raphael turns, drawn by the sound, before your demons launch their attack.

>Please roll 2D100, first for Pixie, second for Valkyrie. I'll take the highest of the first three

Rolled 24, 61 = 85 (2d100)

>>42147031
Fuck he rolled well.

Rolled 1, 9 = 10 (2d100)

>>42147031

Rolled 27, 90 = 117 (2d100)

>>42147056
Thats kind of impressive in its own right.

>>42147031
Rolling.

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>>42147056
Goddammit, anon.

Rolled 39, 43 = 82 (2d100)

>>42147031
well let's see if I can pull a double 1

So assuming Pixie bites it, just replace her with Eligor and have Valk keep up the artillery.

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Rolled 30 (1d50)

>>42147073

It's Pixie's lightning bolt that lands first, searing down from the balcony like spear of light, but Raphael is able to turn it aside with one of his already scorched wings. He winces in pain from the blow, but his pride is all that is wounded. He fixes you with a murderous glare – considering his reputation as an angel of mercy, you see remarkably little in the way of clemency in those burning eyes – and points his sword at you.

“A foolish mistake, human. I had hoped that you would submit to God's mercy, but your arrogance knows no bounds. Yet, I am not a cruel being, so I shall make your death quick. Now, kneel before me a-”

That's when Valkyrie's strike hits home, ploughing into the distracted angel from behind and causing him to lurch forwards, his eyes bulging in surprise. He's stunned, although you don't know for how long. Without wasting any time, you summon Eligor – the armoured demon appearing right beside you – and order the attack.

“To glory!” Eligor roars as he charges, “Sacrifice the son of Heaven!”

>Please roll 1D100, best of the first 3.

Rolled 98 (1d100)

>>42147204
M̨̗̝̗̬͙͇ͦ̉̄̈̈̀͂̄͜Ą̤̙̒̅ͨͩ̽Ǹ̬͍̣̗͇̲̗ͩ͝'̛̘̺̭̬͚̤͆͗ͮ͐̿̒͡S͎̬̩̥͉̎͆̏̍̃ ̢͔̫̞͈̳̇̀ͯ͆͑̚ͅG̢̲͕̰͍̙͕̰ͯͭ͡R͈ͧ̈̆͂̽̋ͦ͆͘Ę̸̳̝͇̳̈ͬͤ̎͠ͅA̔͆̓ͦͬ҉̧̤͕͉̝T̡̰͚̣̙ͯͩ̈̅̈̏ͨ͢Ę̳͔̗̙ͦͣͭͥ͆̑ͮ͡S̗͈̤̘͍͕̑̾́͜Ţ̘̙̥̳͚͓̩͔̘̈́ͩ̃̕͞ ̪̳ͮ̂ͨͩͫ͐ͫ̐Ģͪ̏̚͏͉̙̼̬̥͞L̿͏̨͖͓̬̹̗̘̦̼͠I̛̩̗ͭ̂̃̾͘̕M̴͖̼͙̭̝͉̟ͤ̆̄ͣ̇ͬ̓̚̚P͋́ͤ̋ͩͤ҉̻̘̦̬̞̜͙̕S̫̝̗͑͊͟ͅĘ̘̥̟͓̘͓̠͇̒ͪ̄ͫͭ̾ ̗̗̱͉̰̼̓̈Ȯ̴͎͍͔̺̘̭̥ͭͪ̓̕͡F͇͍̼̙̝̒͌͛ͬͭ̏ͯ̍ͅ ̙̻̺̬̋͑͋ͫ̑ͧ̋ͤ̚F̠̖͎̰̖̦̂̐ͣ̿̅͂̎́͜I̢̧̭̺̱̘ͨͫ̀̒͂̐R͓͍̘̖̍̾̌ͣË̴̝̞͉̹̼̘ͤͩ̐̂̕ ̄ͨͮ͊̏͏̵̭̳͕͎̦͖̞̯R̛̜̥̤̝̭͖̹̲͂́̔͡Ẻ͚́D̪͎͇ͩ͂̈ͮ̓ͣͮ̌͟͡

Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>42147204
Man's greatest glimpse of fire red.

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>>42147223
I will not crack!

Rolled 13 (1d100)

>>42147204

>>42147223
I do believe Eligor has had enough of this bullshit.

>>42147223

Eligor's lance strikes home with the force of a comet, punching right through Raphael's golden breastplate and emerging from the other side, slick with bright red blood. The world seems to pause for a moment, giving you an uncomfortably long moment to study the hideous wound. No human could survive such an injury – hell, you're not even sure that a demon could survive something like that.

Raphael grins at you, blood shining brightly on his straight, even teeth. His eyes are wild with – what? Desperation? Spite? Or just the sheer zealous rage of a true fanatic? It's a confusing moment, one in which you find yourself unable to do anything other than stare into the Archangel's maniacal eyes. Someone has to do something – anything – to break the dreadful stalemate, and the warrior of God is the first one to act.

Taking hold of Eligor's lance, he pushes himself further forwards onto the weapon, dragging the reluctant demon closer. Eligor's horse whines, shying away from the angel, but it cannot defeat the holy warrior's strength. Then, with the old soldier pulled close to him, Raphael bows his head in prayer.

This was what Nebiros warned you about – his holy light, the wrath of God. You've got a moment – at most – to decide your next move.

What's it going to be?

>Return all your demons to storage and retreat
>Press the attack
>Other

>>42147450
Throw the lance outside

>>42147472
Its stuck in Raph.

>>42147450
Does Eligor have any secondary weapons?

>>42147450
>>Press the attack
Use one hand to punch use the other to summon Jack.

>>42147490
>Its stuck in Raph.
Precisely, throw it out like a javelin, Eligor's a big guy, he could throw it quite far I assume.
Or maybe it's stuck to him?

>>42147527
Raph is holding him in place. I suppose he could let go but I don't think he can lift Raph and throw him along with the lance.

>>42147511
We (as in Amelia) don't want be near the holy blast. Only Eligor has a chance at surviving it close range like that.

>>42147450
>>Press the attack
Eligor just punch him with your fist, while he is close like that. When the Holy Blast goes off use the surprise that he will feel that you are still alive to pull out the lance and stab him again. Preferably in the neck.

Pixie another long range lightning strike.

Amelia get to cover.

>>42147490
>Does Eligor have any secondary weapons?

Just armoured fists. Good enough for an emergency.

>>42147633
Alright

>>42147611
>>42147450
I'll second this. Have Eligor channel his inner Demifiend. Hopefully repeated blows to the face will mess up Raph's concentration.

>>42147656
>>42147611

Hit him, you yell to Eligor as you scramble back away from the Archangel, just keep hitting him! Just before you throw yourself behind a pew, you hear the wet sounds of a metal gauntlet crashing into flesh over and over again, but even that grotesque sound is soon drowned out by a heavenly choir, the sound rising to a painful crescendo. Raphael's final attack is coming, and all you can do is hope that Nebiros' totem works properly.

“Fear not, master!” Eligor shouts, his voice almost drowned out by the din coming from his opponent. It almost sounds like the old soldier is enjoying himself – gleefully beating the stuffing out of his ancient enemy even as his own death potentially draws near. “Fear not!” he repeats boldly, “I will! Not! Crack!”

With that last declaration, the holy power that Raphael has been gathering is unleashed, blasting out through the cathedral with the force of a thunderclap. Even through your tightly shut eyes, the golden light stabs at your retinas and burns the surface of your skin. If you'd been closer, as close as Eligor is now, you could have been blasted to ash in an instant. Yet... the moment of overwhelming noise and light ends, leaving you with ringing ears and a splitting headache. Cautiously, you peer over the edge of the pew.

Eligor is still standing, the doll hanging from his belt has been reduced to an ashen husk, but the demon himself is proudly upright. Raphael's hands have dropped away from the demon, stunned by the survival of the hated devil, and it is that moment of disbelief that proves, finally, to be fatal. Eligor tears his lance out of the angel, dragging the weapon down as he withdraws it so that it cuts Raphael open. Hot blood pours out of the gaping wound, and Raphael tumbles backwards with a hideous gurgling scream.

Angel blood, you realise, smells just like devil blood.

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>>42147826
>Angel blood, you realise, smells just like devil blood.

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>>42147826
>Angel blood, you realise, smells just like devil blood.

>>42147826

“So I am slain,” Raphael rasps eventually, each one of his words casting a mist of blood out of his mouth, “Human, hear my curse. You have chosen war, so may you never feel peace. You have chosen to go against the Lord, so may you never feel his comfort. May you never know contentment, love or mercy. Pray for your soul, human, pray... that you are not... beyond redemption.”

Finally, with a rattling breath, Raphael falls silent. He's dead, you realise with weary satisfaction. He's dead, Lilith's dead, and you're the last one standing. Yet, Raphael's last words leave you feeling strangely uneasy – as if the victory you've just won means nothing. But then again, you're not really sure how you SHOULD feel in a situation like this. The Archangel was not wrong about one thing – you've chosen war. This is something you're going to feel a lot more, in the future.

“Beware,” Eligor warns you, “I can sense something... A great power gathering outside. Not Raphael's host of angels, but something else. I urge caution, master.”

Sighing aloud, you call Pixie to your side and ask her if she feels anything as well. The little fairy nods nervously.

“Getting pretty spooky out there, boss,” she tells you, “I don't think it's hostile, but... It's dangerous, that's for sure.”

Wonderful, you sigh to yourself, you should have known it wasn't going to be this simple. Some other enemy, stepping up to the plate perhaps? Pixie suggested it wasn't hostile – yet – but there's only one way to find out. Bracing yourself for the worst, you emerge from the cathedral into the streets. You're not sure what you were expecting, but it certainly wasn't this.

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>>42147964
>“I can sense something... A great power gathering outside."

Never a dull moment.

>>42147964
Here comes our new demon

>>42148008
Watch it be Petra butthurt about stealing her kills or something.

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>>42147964

“Look Mister B,” a youthful voice cries out with enthusiasm, “Angels! I see angels, Mister B!”

You look up, your horrified gaze following the oily black spears thrusting up from the ground and settling on the angels transfixed, impaled upon their thorny points. Each one of them is still alive, writhing in agony and sending a thin drizzle of blood pattering to the ground. Below them, skipping and frolicking in the macabre rain, is a slim young girl with golden hair. Alice, the young goddess of death herself.

“She woke up a short while ago,” Nebiros explains, his reedy voice drawing your attention. He stands at a distance, keeping his immaculate suit clean and watching Alice carefully, “It was, I think, when you activated the cornerstone. We all felt it, and the young mistress insisted on coming out to see.”

“Angels!” Alice squeals again in delight.

“Yes, I can see them,” Belial grumbles, chasing after Alice with a parasol, desperately – and fruitlessly - trying to keep the young girl clean, “Lots of angels.”

It's an awkward moment, and you feel the urge to break the silence with a question.

>You did all this?
>I believe I owe you one
>So what are you here for?
>Other

>>42148062
>>Other
"Your plush toy worked like a charm Nebiros, thanks again."

>So what are you here for?

>>42148062
>>So what are you here for?
Good job on the doll

>>42148087
>>42148121

You clear your throat carefully, picking your words despite the background noise, a terrible mix of groaning and Alice's giggles. Nebiros' totem worked perfectly, you tell him, a really flawless job.

“Well, I DO pride myself on my work,” Nebiros offers you a stiff little bow, “And, of course, I know a thing or two about defending against angels. It comes with the territory, really.”

Right, you can imagine that. So, you ask him, what is he here for? Not looking for a fight, you hope, but you leave that particular thought unspoken.

“It was the young mistress who wanted to come out here,” Nebiros watches Alice cavorting around the forest of corpses for a moment, his thin lips twisted into a strangely parental smile, “It's been a very long time since she's seen an angel. It does me a world of good, seeing her enjoy herself this much.”

Yeah, that's... actually kinda creepy. Still, you're not one to turn your nose up at the help. The thought of taking on all those angels at once sends a shiver down your spine.

“If I may be so bold as to ask,” Nebiros asks delicately, “Do you intend of pursuing the other cornerstones?”

Absolutely, you answer him with a tired smile, you're not going to stop with just one. You're going to keep at this, no matter what Heaven or Hell throws in your path. The thought of your mother, standing at the other side of that white void, puts extra conviction in your answer. You're going to see her again, and nothing is going to stop you.

“Then, I shall keep my eyes and ears open,” Nebiros promises you, “Should I hear anything useful, I'll keep you informed. Of course, I shall also keep you in mind for any... jobs I might need assistance with. Payment for services rendered, you understand?”

You understand. That's the way things work in this world, after all. Favours traded for favours. Speaking of favours...

>Got any work for me now?
>Return to the fairy court
>Other

>>42148383
>>Return to the fairy court

>>42148383
>>Return to the fairy court
Slow down Amelia, you need to regroup and rest.

"I understand, I might come by later or if you need to, you can find me staying at the fairy court."

>>42148383
>Return to the fairy court

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>>42148423
>>42148424
>>42148438

You'll keep that in mind, you tell Nebiros with a weary smile. You're curious, but you need time to rest and regroup. You do tell Nebiros that you can mostly be found at the fairy court, so he can always send a messenger if there's some job he needs going. In exchange for services rendered, you tell him, sharing a laugh with the demon. Speaking of the fairy court, you need to be getting back, see what went down while you were away.

“Take care,” Nebiros tells you, looking past you at Alice – the young girl now jumping up and down in a puddle while Belial wrings his hands in dismay. It looks like they've got their hands full at the moment, so you return the courtesy and head off.

On the way, a thought occurs to you. Cassandra. Just what is she going to say if – when – she learns about Raphael? She's not the girl you once knew, but you're still a little uncertain. It's a sensitive issue, no two ways about it. But... no sense worrying about it now, you convince yourself. You'll cross that bridge when you come to it, and see what happens.

Although you might have to cross that bridge a little sooner than you expected, you think to yourself with vague dismay, as you draw near the entrance to the court. Cassandra is waiting outside, chatting politely with a feminine young man. Her eyes are bright, and she's got a perky smile – for understandable reasons – and that cheery expression doesn't falter when she sees you returning.

“Hey Amelia!” she cries, “Look who's here!”

That's great, you reply, but who IS here?

“Oh!” smacking her forehead in frustration, Cassandra introduces you to the young man, “This is Setanta, he's kind of a big deal in the court at the moment.”

>Is he now?
>You two look like you're getting along well
>Cassandra, I've got something to tell you...
>Other

>>42148656
>>You two look like you're getting along well
be polite and return their greetings

>>42148656
>>You two look like you're getting along well
>Cassandra, I've got something to tell you... Later in private.

>>42148656
>You two look like you're getting along well

Nice to meet you Setanta.

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>>42148697
>>42148775
>>42148776

Well the two of them seem to be getting on pretty well, you announce, rubbing your hands together with a certain glee. Up close, you have to admit that Setanta really is quite the looker – in a kind of, pretty rather than handsome, way. He certainly seems to have charmed Cassandra, who laughs a little nervously at your “innocent” comment.

“Amelia Bishop,” Setanta pronounces your name with a certain relish, “I've heard a lot about you. You're a warrior of some renown, in these parts.”

Really, you ask, already? Has the word got out about your fight with Ra... ah, with Forneus? Well anyway, you hastily continue, you're very glad to make his acquaintance. You then look around to Cassandra and ask, with a faint jangle of nerves, if you can talk to her later – in private.

“Uh, sure,” the girl looks away from Setanta, giving you a vaguely puzzled look, “Oh, wait, I heard the king was looking for you. He seemed a little...”

A little what? Irate? Worried? You're pretty sure that the king has learned about your latest success by now – if Nebiros learned about it, there's no reason to suspect it's a secret – but you're less sure how he's going to react. You'll go and see him right away, you tell Cassandra. You two, you add with a look of mock severity, don't do anything you wouldn't do.

“What?” Cassandra gasps, laughing nervously, “Don't be silly, Amelia... Honestly!”

Still chuckling to yourself at the girl's flustered reaction, you hurry into the court and travel the now-familiar maze of corridors until you reach the audience chamber. When you arrive, the only two people in the cavernous room are Oberon and Titania. Not even any guards – suddenly, you have a sudden feeling of uncertainty.

“Sit,” Oberon announces when he notices you, nodding to a single chair, “Please.”

File: Titania.jpg (60 KB, 602x755)

60 KB JPG

>>42148989

“The news of your recent triumph has already started to circulate. The Amala Network is full of rumours and uncertainty. They say that the Archangel Raphael is dead, and so is the devil Lilith,” Titania leans a little closer, curiosity in her features, “Is this true?”

Well, you can't exactly lie about something like that. If nothing else, anyone who takes a stroll over to Saint Paul's can see the stains for themselves. So, without a whole lot of options, you nod.

“Interesting,” Oberon muses, “Soon, both Heaven and Hell will be howling for your head, delivered on a silver platter. Yet... you've given neither side an advantage over the other. That's a strange development, and not one that occurs often.”

“Perhaps this will give both sides pause,” Titania continues, picking up where her husband leaves off, “Although, and I'm very sorry to say this, there may come a time when their outrage outweighs pragmatism.”

She's talking about handing you over the them, you think to yourself. Suddenly, you're reminded of Cernunnos' warning – Titania will use to for her own advantage, but she'll drop you like a hot coal as soon as you become a burden, or a risk to her own safety. It takes you a moment to realise that your face is twisted into a fierce scowl, and you force your features into a more careful neutrality.

>Are you saying you'll turn me over to them?
>What's the point of all this?
>I won't be a burden upon this court, I promise
>Other

>>42149146
>Are you saying you'll turn me over to them?
Once they come knocking?

>>42149146
say nothing, we all know where this is headed.

>>42149146
>>42149211
This or
>"Continue. "

>>42149211
>>42149257

There isn't really anything you can say to that, is there? This place, this new home that you had fought so hard for, is going to be snatched out from under you, and there isn't anything you can do about it. Except... perhaps there is something. You could stop, lay down your arms and end this private war of yours. The idea sticks in your throat, but it's an idea you've got to consider.

It's a strange situation, and not one you ever really expected to find yourself in. Nobody is forcing you to do anything – yet – and the final decision lies with you. You've got to choose your own path and live with the consequences. But what are your options? Keep up this little war, maybe with the whole world as the stakes, and risk burning every bridge you've ever made, or drop your crusade in the hope of a peaceful life. If you stop here, God and Lucifer might very well overlook your sins. A peaceful life, but is that really worth that much in a world under someone else's heel?

Or maybe you've got a third option. Throw in your lot with one side. Plead for God's forgiveness, or offer your strength to Lucifer's cause. You'd still be burning your bridges, but there's the possibility of a secure allegiance. Security is worth a lot, in a world like this.

“Amelia?” Oberon asks quietly, an unmistakable note of nervousness creeping into his voice, “Understand, I must do what is best for my people.”

“If we were forced to... part ways,” Titania adds, her voice unusually tentative, “I assure you, we would not put your friends in a dangerous position.”

Both of them lapse into silence, waiting for your response. Truth be told, you're not sure what you're going to say.

>I'll pack my bags and leave at once
>I'll do whatever it takes to earn my place here
>Keep silent
>Other

>>42149582
>Other
"Would you allow my friends to stay if I leave?"

>>42149582
I would rather not leave, and I would really rather not leave my friend and father behind. She's too nice for this court's politics, and he does not even realize they exist. Still if you wish me to leave I will go.

>>42149655
I think that's what she implied. Fuck I don't like playing into her hand but we need some kind of home base.

>>42149582
>I'll do whatever it takes to earn my place here

OOC the reason I'm doing this is cause it'll probably deal with turning Setanta into Cu Chulainn which I kinda want.

>>42149582
>I'll do whatever it takes to earn my place here
Cause apparently Cern and Gae Bolge weren't enough.

>>42149869
>>42149742
>>42149686


Being honest with yourself, you'd really rather not leave the court. It has the feel of a home to it, a sentimental attachment above and beyond the need for a home base. You really thought you could settle here. Carnby seems to like it here – for reasons that barely need explaining – and Cassandra was even starting to adapt to life here. Now, faced with the prospect of leaving – or leaving your friends behind – you're unexpectedly depressed.

This, of course, you keep to yourself. You don't want to play into Titania's hands by revealing your true feelings. More than ever, the court seems like a viper's nest – and it's this den of snakes that you might be forced to leave your friends in? Cassandra and Carnby would be easy prey, twisted and manipulated however the king and queen likes, then discarded when their uses were exhausted.

Simply put, it doesn't leave you in a very good position.

You're willing to do whatever it takes to earn your place here, you tell the pair of monarchs with a hard voice, but you'll leave if they wish you to go.

“We don't WISH for you to go,” Oberon hastily assures you, “But in the future, circumstances may demand...”

“This path you walk will lead you to nothing but destruction,” Titania tells you bluntly, interrupting her husband, “We refuse to allow you to lead this to our gates. There may come a time when the trouble you've caused will exceed the protection our treaties have granted us.”

“But that time is not yet now!” Oberon snaps, shouting over his wife. It seems that you're about to witness a domestic dispute – how delightful. “Amelia, do you truly wish to stay here?”

That's what you said, you reply wearily, isn't it? Suddenly, you feel tired of all this, unspeakably weary. If only they would just get this over with!

“Then you shall stay,” Oberon says smoothly, smiling, “With my blessing.”

>>42150002
>“Then you shall stay,” Oberon says smoothly, smiling, “With my blessing.”
Neat, he's about to tell the queen who runs this shit, only to get killed a few mins after.

>>42150124
Eh she's more subtle than that. Which is 10x scarier.

>>42150124
Is SmT Oberon that weak? Cause in myth he was a scary MOfo.

>>42150002

Just like that, you think to yourself with a kind of numb surprise, ask and ye shall receive? Of course not – this is what Oberon was talking about, way back when. You're going to have to earn your keep, and there's little doubt that he'll find all manner of dirty, shitty jobs for you to do. In a way, you've made a deal with a devil worse than any in hell. You've also made your bed – now is the time to lie in it.

“As my husband wishes,” Titania says after a pause, her words poised carefully, “You shall stay.”

She's not happy about this, that much is obvious. She knows as well as you do, what you've just signed yourself up for, and it enrages her – in a subtle way. Perhaps you're beyond her control, at the price of putting yourself under the king's thumb.

“Then return to your quarters,” Oberon requests, no, orders, “I shall call upon you in due time, for a most important service.”

So that's it then. He can order you about as much as he likes, and as long as you wish to remain here, you've got to smile and swallow his bullshit. Standing, you first nod to the king and then bow, allowing only a little of the sarcasm you feel to seep into the gesture. With an imperious gesture, Oberon bids you leave. You're only too happy to comply, slipping from the room with a quiet, humiliated rage.

You're only in your quarters for a few moments – barely enough time to cool off – before Cassandra lets herself in. She sees the look on your face and flinches a little, but sits beside you on the bed regardless.

“You wanted to talk to me about something?” she asks, a note of obvious caution in her voice.

It's just one thing after another today, isn't it?

>I killed an Archangel today
>I might have to leave here soon
>It's... nothing. I'm sorry.
>Other

>>42150244
>>I might have to leave here soon/one of these day
Why/because
>I killed an Archangel today

>>42150244
>I killed an Archangel today
>Other
Tell her about the keystones first, tell her why we did it. Why were determined to see it through. Fuck it, tell her about the vision with Mom and maybe even about Carnby being our father. Show that we trust her.

>>42150244
>>Other
"Hoo boy where to begin. After we split up today I got into a bit of trouble. Before that, did Carnby or Titania tell you what Heaven and Hell are fighting over?"

>Explain the cornerstones and our desire to make sure neither side profits from it since we don't think either side winning will be good for humanity and more importantly her, us, and Carnby.

>Then explain the events at St. Pauls as they happened.

"So yeah I killed both the Devil Lilith and the Archangel Raphael today effectively pissing off both God and Lucifer."

>>42150244
>>I might have to leave here soon
Because I claimed a key stone. Liliy wasa fter it too. Except she Was Lilith the Devil sent to Counter Raphael. Jack took care of her though.After that
>I killed an Archangel today
Raphael, or something claiming to be him. He was demanding salvation based on works, that grace did not exist for sinners, and that humans were lesser than angels. All thing the bible tells us are not true. Indeed his blood acted, looked and smelled just Like Lillith's. Whatever he is serving seems and acts more like yhvh than our god.

>>42150446
I am going to assume you were on your phone huh?

>>42150527
Yes.

>>42150578
>>42150446
Let me try to word that better in Amelia speak.

"Cass, back when we were studying the bible back in school I expected benevolent saviors. Not police that would kill me or other people for following our free will that we were born with. Hell Lilith and Raphael's blood? Smelled exactly the damn same."

I don't think Amelia would know about YHVH.

>>42150313
>>42150354
>>42150404
>>42150446

You might have to leave here soon, you tell Cassandra, not quite able to meet her eyes. You hear, rather than see, her reaction – a gasp, followed by low, quiet breathing – and wait for her to say something.

“Why?” she asks eventually, the simplicity of her answer forcing you to laugh bitterly. She's so... naïve. Openness and honesty – both admirable qualities that she has in abundance, and qualities that would make her an easy target in court. The thought of leaving her here, abandoning her, rekindles your anger.

You might leave here, you tell her bitterly, because you killed an Archangel – and a devil. You killed them both, in pursuit of a cornerstone so that neither Heaven nor Hell could profit from it. You wait for her to say something, but there is no reply – no comment at all. That only angers you further. Does she not realise, you snap, what is at stake? Heaven and Hell, fighting out amongst themselves for control over this new world, and you're the only damn person willing to do something to stop them!

You killed them both, you earned the ire of both God and Lucifer, in the hope of a better future for mankind! Because your parents, your friends, will be the ones to suffer under someone else's boot heel if you don't act! Still, Cassandra remains maddeningly silent. All you can see, out of the corner of your eye, is her fist tightly holding her golden cross. All of a sudden, it seems like you've got nothing left to say.

Trust, you say wearily, you trust Cassandra, and that's why you're spilling your guts to her. She can judge you however she wishes, but all you've ever done has been for the sake of humanity. You might leave here because Oberon and Titania won't risk protecting you from Lucifer's armies – or those of your “loving God” you can't help but add spitefully. Still, you're not going to stop.

>>42150680

It takes Cassandra a long time to answer. First, she laughs weakly, then murmurs out a few words. “Amelia,” she begins, “This is all way over my head. I mean, I don't know anything about fighting for the sake of... of Earth or humanity. I've barely got my head around fighting for survival. But... killing an angel of the Lord?” She shakes her head sadly, “That's serious. I can't lie about that. I know what angels can do – I've seen what Archangel did in my name, to protect me – but... They're still agents of God.”

Cassandra, you begin carefully, you were studying the same bible she was back in school. You were both expecting benevolent saviours. Beings of mercy and light, not policemen and soldiers. The Archangel Raphael, the angel of mercy, put himself above humanity. He would have had you kneeling before him, begging for your life, what kind of angel is that?

Another bout of silence from Cassandra forces you to snap out, partially in a rage and perhaps just to force some reaction out of the girl. His blood, you snap, his blood was that of a demon – there's no difference between these angels and the devils you've fought. They serve different masters and different creeds – that's all.

“No!” Cassandra groans, standing up and shaking her head desperately, “Don't say that! Don't talk about that!”

Before you can talk more about that – before you can say anything else, in fact – she runs from the room, her footsteps ringing out down the corridor. You're just following her when you almost bowl over a pixie guard that was flying towards you.

“Hey, woah!” the pixie cries, “You, human!” she points at you, “King Oberon wants to see you immediately!”

If you leave now, you might still catch up with Cassandra. But, king Oberon has requested your presence – are you really in a position to refuse?

>Go after Cassandra
>See Oberon

>>42150960
>Go after Cassandra
Give me a minute!

>>42150960
>See Oberon

>>42150960
>>See Oberon
Send Pixie after her?

>>42151057
I dunno, I think she either needs to hear from Amelia or be alone while she figures things out.

>>42151089
>>42151057
I suppose if do send one after, it should be Pixie since she was there for the entire fight and can answer questions if Cass wants to ask.

>>42151033
>>42151057

For a moment, all you can do is hesitate, torn between chasing after Cassandra and obeying Oberon's orders. When you finally snap out of the panicked daze, you spit out a vile curse. The pixie guard flinches a little, but snaps a dutiful salute when you ask her to take you to the king. Maybe it's best to give Cassandra some time alone – give her time to think things through, maybe even decide her place in the world. You dropped some pretty serious bombshells on her, you'd be more surprised if she took them without freaking out.

Even so, you're numb as you follow the slowly hovering pixie down several corridors and down a flight of stairs or two. It's not a route you've ever taken before, and it leads down into a rather bleak section of dungeon. It's not as terrible as the pit you found Cernunnos in, but it's pretty close. There is nothing in the room but a single chair, with the king lounging in it like an oversized throne.

“There you are,” he says, oozing smug satisfaction, “Soon, the queen and I will have an important task for you. A task that, we will tell you, is of vital importance to the fairy race.”

Sure. Vital importance. You understand. Your voice is flat, emotionless – it's either that or spiteful anger – but the lack of vitality seems to unnerve Oberon somewhat.

“Don't take that tone with me, human!” he snaps, “Are you listening to me? Listen carefully, and heed my words well.” Pausing, he leans back on his chair and yawns. It must be such hard work, doing absolutely nothing all day. “We shall give you an important task, and I want you to fail at it.”

Wait, what? You were listening, but it sounds like he just told you to fail a task of great importance.

“That's what I said, yes,” Oberon nods, “You see, I have to think in the long term. And, in the long term, succeeding at this task will do more harm than good.”

>I don't understand
>Fine. I'll do it.
>What is this task?

>>42151378
>>What is this task?

>>42151378
>What is this task?

>>42151378
who knows and who musn't know?

does he want us to fail in turning Setanta to Chu Chulain?

>>42151509
Think so.

Totally going to do it though.
Honestly I think Cu Chulainn would be a better ally than Oberon. I think he would 'get' us more.

>>42151378
>>What is this task?

>>42151409
>>42151418
>>42151509

You understand the position you're in, but you're going to have to ask about this task. What is it that Oberon is going to ask you to do, and what exactly does he mean when he wants you to “fail” it?

“You understand the position you're in?” Oberon repeats slowly, “Are you sure about that? I don't think you'd be so quick to ask so many questions if you really understood the situation. But, this is an important task to me, so I'll allow you this... luxury.”

You're so lucky. Really.

“Tomorrow, I will ask you to guide a young warrior, to oversee his quest and protect him when necessary. You see, we believe this young warrior to be the reincarnation of Cu Chulainn and, should he embrace his destiny as the legendary hero, it will be a great blessing to our people,” Oberon scowls, his face souring, “A curse, in the guise of a blessing.”

You're struggling to see the problem here. A figure for all the people to rally around – it's like Gae Bolg all over again, except this time with a real hero and not just some scrap metal.

“A figure for all the wrong kinds of people to rally around,” Oberon spits, “If Cu Chulainn rises again, he might very well become a threat on the same scale as Cernunnos – one that would divide my people and lead them to their deaths.”

So, what he's asking you to do is...?

“Our young prodigy must die,” Oberon shrugs indifferently, “It's really that simple. He must fail, he must be broken, and he must die. Above all else, nobody else can know about this. Not the queen, not your friends – nobody!” Taking a deep breath, Oberon waves you out, “That's all. You are dismissed. Oh,” he smirks suddenly, “Do try and act surprised, tomorrow, when we give you this task.”

He'll be able to see the whites of your eyes, you promise, seething inside. Then, now that you're dismissed, you leave the dungeon.

>>42151622
Feys are dicks.. cunts, whatever

I miss BRA.

>>42151622

Today, you think to yourself as you drag yourself back to the main level of the court, is turning out to be a pretty shitty day. It's not even over yet – you've got a good few hours before it'll get dark. That reminds you, you should really look for Cassandra. It's no good for her to be out there on her own, especially after dark.

Then again, maybe she wants to be alone. Chasing after her might just make things worse, and you're really not in the mood to ruin anything else today. Maybe you should just go to bed instead, and get some well-needed rest. At least you can't do any more damage in your dreams. But you don't FEEL tired – you'd probably just toss and turn for hours. Maybe Carnby is still in the archives – you wanted to get his opinion on that black marble thing. With everything that has happened, it slipped right out of your mind.

So, what now?

>Try and find Cassandra
>Talk a little with Carnby
>Just go to bed

>>42151701
>Try and find Cassandra
We don't need to talk about angels and crap. Just make sure she gets inside before it gets too late.

>>42151701
>Try and find Cassandra

>>42151701
>Talk a little with Carnby

Okay, who exactly can we trust right now? At all?

>>42151765
Our summons, Maybe Carnsby and Cass. Maybe.

>>42151765
Our demons.
I think Nebiros and Belial as long as we are straight up with them.
Carnby kind of.
Cass depends on how she is handling this.

>>42151739
>>42151748

Before you do anything else, you want to find Cassandra. You don't need to talk business with her – if anything, you'd rather avoid talking about that stuff right about now – but you just want to make sure she's okay. Besides, you think you have a reasonable idea of where to find her. That little church you passed on the way to Cernunnos, that same church where she was able to confront Archangel and face her fear. She might not be there – she might be deliberately avoiding the damn place – but you doubt it. You've got a feeling.

So, following that tenuous feeling, you march out of the fairy court, not caring who sees you leave, and set off to find the place. It's not far, but you walk slowly as you think of a way to tackle this. Cassandra might not be delicate, but you're in a shitty enough mood that you might just bite her head off for a single wrong word. Just got to stay calm and think things through – that's all.

The evening air is cool, and that helps to ease your temper somewhat. By the time the little church comes into view – Cassandra sitting on the front step, almost exactly as you imagined she would be – you feel about ready to talk without swearing your head off. Still, you're really not sure what to say to the girl. Sitting there, alone, she looks so... sad.

>Sit next to her, wait for her to speak
>I think I've made a terrible mistake
>Try and lighten the mood
>Other

>>42151964
>Sit next to her, wait for her to speak

>>42151964
>>Sit next to her, wait for her to speak

>>42151964
>I killed Raphael, and I killed Lilith, but there was a third. Do you remember Alice?

>>42152027
What does Alice have to do with anything?

>>42151964
>Sit next to her, wait for her to speak

>>42152047
>>42152027
>talk about Alice prancing about like a kid after torturing all the angels
>honestly, we're afraid we might turn out similarly numb to violence if we keep this up

>>42152083
Sorry not really seeing Amelia worrying about being THAT twisted. She's seen Leon. She's seen Petra. She can keep her humanity intact while fighting.

In any case thats not something to talk about now.

>>42152027
>>42152083
That's rather a stupid thing to talk about.

>>42152137
>>42152150
alright then, I'll try to think of less stupid things to talk about next time.

>>42151972
>>42151983
>>42152068

Hell, you're no good at this kind of thing. You'd rather take on a problem you can solve with punching, or maybe stabbing – times have changed, after all – than do all this talking stuff. With “feelings” and everything. You just take a seat next to Cassandra, not too close, but not too distant either, and wait for her to make the first move. She doesn't immediately jump up and run away, so that's probably a good sign.

“I told you,” Cassandra sighs, “This is all over my head. You said you trusted me, and... and I trust you.”

That's good. Mutual trust, that's a good place to start. Unfortunately, after that strong start, Cassandra runs out of steam, lapsing into silence for a long time.

“If you leave the court,” she says eventually, in the tone of someone reaching a decision, “I'll come with you. I'm not... going along with whatever you're doing. I'm not just doing it because it's YOU doing it.”

So why would she? The court has no problems with her or Carnby, they don't have to worry about being thrown out. They don't have to worry about Lucifer's armies, or... or God's judgement. Cassandra has a comfortable thing going for her at the court – although you're not honestly sure you believe that, given the toxic politics you've seen – would she really throw that away to follow you?

“I think...” Cassandra pauses, “If the court throws you out, I refuse to... to endorse that by staying. It's a stupid gesture, I know, but it's the only thing I have the power to do.” She shrugs and sighs, “Besides, they've not thrown you out yet, have they? They might come around. I bet you can persuade them to keep you – you're useful, after all!”

That's right, you reply, trying not to sound glum. You're the kind of person that gets stuff done – no matter what.

>>42152388

“That's the spirit!” Cassandra smiles brightly, the expression almost completely natural and unforced, “Maybe they've already got something planned for you. Hey, Setanta mentioned that something big might be happening soon – he seemed pretty excited about something!”

Right, yeah, excited. You laugh falteringly, trying to maintain a straight face and the appropriate amount of enthusiasm. You want to stay at the court more than ever, you realise, although that realisation is a bitter one. What, exactly, are you prepared to do to keep that place? Sure, you only met him for a brief moment, but Setanta seemed like a good sort – he has Cassandra's seal of approval, and for a pagan spirit, that's not easily given. Can you really murder him, and then pretend like everything is okay?

All that, just so you have somewhere to rest your weary head?


>I'm going to leave it there for tonight. Next thread on Sunday, and I'll lurk for a while in case of any questions.
>Thanks to everyone who took part today!

>>42152434
Thanks for running!
Would it be possible for him to just fail without dying?

>>42152434
>Can you really murder him, and then pretend like everything is okay?
No you really can't, demon or no.

Thanks for the run.

>>42152447

Something that would humiliate him or otherwise destroy his reputation would certainly count as failing in this case. Can't use a coward as a figurehead, for example.

>>42152521
Titania wants him succeed I assume?

Also if its no trouble what were the reactions to the cornerstone being claimed by Amelia in real time?

From BRA, Oberon and Titania and Carnby.

>>42152559

Titania wants him to succeed, yes.

>BRA
Nebiros' monocle pops out, Alice starts to laugh like a maniac and Belial sighs heavily, sensing a new and wacky adventure.
>Oberon and Titania
I think both of them were very shocked that Amelia didn't just get instakilled by Lilith/Raphael!
>Carnby
Humans aren't sensitive enough to feel these things, but he was too busy reading books to notice even if he was a demon.

Those are all 100% serious

>>42152647
If he doesn't know already it'll be fun telling.

"Hey dad, I went for a walk and did a thing. I pissed off ALOT of people."

>>42152434
Chu Chulain is pretty laid back compared to the warrior types, but he's STILL a warrior type. If we could get him on our side, that would actually fulfill Oberon's agenda: he can't lead the fairy court if he's an independent unit.

And he was one BADASS demon to have on the team.

>>42152711
Thats one way. Another is to let him succeed, become Cu Chu, and have him endorse us in front of the whole court. Titania is happy that Cu Chu is there, officially we did what Oberon said (at least what he told us to do in front of the court), and Oberon's hands are tied cause the figurehead and public opinion are on our side.

>>42152685

"Young lady, have you been getting into trouble again?"
"...Maybe?"

>>42152711
>>42152770

That's very true actually - it seems like this isn't going to be a simple task at all!

>>42152796
I just am really REALLY against becoming an cold assassin and dog of Oberon. Might as well join up with Law if we are being forced to do things we wouldn't otherwise.

>>42152685
>>42152796
"But, but Mom was TOTALLY okay with it!"

>>42152845

Ultimately, this is the biggest problem with neutrality - Law and Strength have their own secure powerbases but with Neutrality Amelia is either on her own, or at the mercy of other's manipulations.

On the other hand, she might be able to play everyone as much as they use her, so...

Oberon is playing with fire. He just doesn't know it yet.