>>43141010

Certainty, that's what you like to hear. Leaning back in your chair, you close your eyes for a moment and think about things. Highgate Cemetery... isn't Karl Marx buried there? Knowing your luck, you'll have to fight his reanimated body, out to crush the lingering remnants of the capitalist system or something equally stupid. Frankly, you'd prefer Beelzebub.

That reminds you – other than rumour and speculation, you have no idea what might be waiting for you at the final cornerstone. It might not even be the Lord of the Flies, although you have no idea what else might be taking Lucifer's corner in this last battle. Maybe you should do a little research, checking with your demons for any last minute information that might have slipped through the net. Then again, there's something to be said for acting now and thinking later – not that that's ended well in the past for you.

“A single, decisive strike,” Petra suggests, stabbing a pointed finger at the notes, “We go in there all guns blazing, yes? It doesn't matter what we find there, it won't be able to stop us.”

“That's absurd!” Cassandra argues, “I mean, we can't just rush in like a bunch of fools, can we? What if it's a trap? Besides...” her voice grows hushed, worried, “I've heard that something bad might happen once we reach the cornerstone. We can't leave any loose ends.”

That's certainly true – you had a few things that needed taking care of. First of all, you need something to protect you from whatever “instrument” Joseph used to twist the New Way survivors into those deformed creatures. Scathach might be able to help with that – she seems to be the expert.

“Amelia,” Titania speak up, leaning across towards you, “I have some matters I would discuss with you. In private, if you please.”

You're in demand today, it seems.

>Seize the initiative and launch the attack
>See what Titania wants
>Find Scathach
>Speak with your demons
>Other

>>43141019
>>See what Titania wants

We can have a Demon strategy meeting on the way to Scathach.

>>43141019
>See what Titania wants
But we probably won't do whatever it is. Summon Cern for his input. We'll probably consult Scatach as well, maybe even get her to come in right before the world ends.

Carnby and Petra's job for now is to secure the location and a safe path to The Tower.

Cass is with us. Whatever we do, she needs practice actually fighting.

I still think we should item Gurr and Valk. Elemental spread is nice, but neither were particularly strong at magic anyway.

>>43141019
>See what Titania wants

>>43141184
>Gurr
+Powerful wind and lightning magic
+Fast and powerful physical attacks

>Powerful at both magic and physical

Going to pass on itemizing Gurr

>>43141238
Gurr has always struck me as a physical type, but I suppose he's more a glass cannon if anything.

>>43141184
Also the Tower appears after the last cornerstone is taken so we can't really secure it until after that happens. Might as well have all hands on deck for whatever Joseph and Hell has in store.

>>43141270
>but I suppose he's more a glass cannon if anything.

I don't see why, he's never died. Just don't let him get grounded. Dude is one of our higher end demons.

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

60 KB JPG

>>43141168
>>43141184
>>43141238

Titania wants to speak with you in private? You can't see how this could end badly. Still, you nod your confirmation and follow her out as she leads you into the empty corridor. It's rare that you see a section of the palace so deserted, but you're so far off the beaten track that there's no reason for anyone to come here. Well, no reason other than conspiratorial meetings, but that's beside the point.

“Cernunnos,” Titania states simply, “He is in your service, is he not? Has he mentioned his desires to take the throne to you?”

He... might have said something along those lines, you admit. Of course, he'd need you to release him from your service to do that and, with some tough times ahead, you were looking to hold onto him for as long as possible.

“Keep him,” Titania advises you, “And keep him on a short leash. Now that he's spilled angelic blood, he would be a political liability should he become king. He might not like it, but I would request that you keep him in your service for as long as possible. That way,” the queen adds with a faint smile, “His worst qualities will not reflect badly upon the court.”

More politics, huh? She's right about one thing, and that's the fact that he's unlikely to take the news well. Maybe you can stall him for long enough that it won't matter either way.

“There is one other matter,” Titania mentions, her voice deliberately light, “I have reason to believe that your father is considering his future here, at the court. I don't know if you are aware, but our worlds will not remain in contact forever. Should he stay, he would stay among our kind for good.”

You had the same thought yourself. Life here, among the fairies, would suit him well. Better than whatever fate awaited him on the battlefield outside, at least. But, putting your opinion aside for a moment, what was Titania getting at?

>>43141299
probably a holdover from the games. He's pretty much high in everything except vit, so I assumed...

And, you know, stronger the demon, stronger the item.

>>43141319

“Should he ask for your opinion...” Titania pauses delicately, “I would ask that you encourage him to stay here. I believe that is what is best, for everyone involved.”

Oh, you see what's going on here. You're not the type to suggest that Titania might have an ulterior motive or anything, but you're pretty damn sure that she has some kind of ulterior motive going on here. She wants Carnby to stay here, and you doubt it's for his research abilities. It's almost sweet, now you think about it.

“Regardless,” Titania says smoothly, “I won't force your hand. I merely ask that you consider all your options and decide, for yourself, what would be best for your father.”

Well, at least she's not trying to bribe or threaten you – although a bribe might be nice. You promise to, at the very least, keep her advice in mind if Carnby asks you for an opinion. Truth be told, you'd not quite made up your own mind yet, but you'll cross that bridge when you come to it. Just as Titania is gesturing for you to return with her, a pixie messenger buzzes down the hallway.

“Your majesty!” the breathless fairy announces, “In the foyer, she just walked right in! The Witch!”

“Well,” Titania muses, “It seems we have a guest. Would you meet her for me? I imagine it's you she's looking for, after all.”

Scathach, you must assume – but why is she here?

>You've got other plans
>Go out to meet Scathach

>>43141441
>Go out to meet Scathach

>>43141441
>>Go out to meet Scathach

>>43141441
>Go out to meet Scathach
she, err, WAS the other plans

File: Girimekhala.jpg (25 KB, 436x526)

25 KB JPG

>>43141445
>>43141453
>>43141485

This IS convenient. You'll meet her, you tell Titania before hurrying off down the corridor. A few wrong turns later, and you find yourself heading back to the open air of the foyer. After the dust and gloom of those shady side rooms, it's a welcome change in atmosphere. When you arrive, Scathach is standing in the middle of the foyer, a massive... beast looming behind her, its gaudy flanks covered in cargo. At the sound of your approach, the thing's single eye turns to gaze stupidly at you.

“Greetings, cursed one,” Scathach purrs. This is, you realise, the first time you've actually seen her walk anywhere, as opposed to floating or levitating. “I must thank you for this demon – I had far too much to carry, and he makes an excellent beast of burden.”

That's... Gireme... Girima... That's the thing you gave her, all that time ago?

“Girimehkala,” Scathach corrects you, “And yes – as you can see, I'm putting him to good use. Did you think I wanted a warrior?”

You really didn't know what to think. Seeing her here, you still don't. Why IS she here?

“The transitional world outside is ending,” Scathach shrugs, “I would rather not end with it. So, despite my misgivings, I have returned. I'm sure Titania will be only too happy to have me around. But,” Scathach looks at you with bright, amused eyes, “Enough about me. What can I do for you?”

>I need advice about an “instrument”. Something that can twist people into monsters
>Can you still forge demons into equipment?
>We might not get a chance to speak again. I'd like to thank you for everything
>Other

>>43141623
>I need advice about an “instrument”. Something that can twist people into monsters
>Can you still forge demons into equipment?
Valkyrie into our gun. That sound good to everyone?

Then
>We might not get a chance to speak again. I'd like to thank you for everything

>>43141623
>>I need advice about an “instrument”. Something that can twist people into monsters
>We might not get a chance to speak again. I'd like to thank you for everything


>>43141661
>Our only fire user into a gun
no thank you

>>43141679
Fair enough

>>43141661
Cancel the Valk part.

>>43141623
>>I need advice about an “instrument”. Something that can twist people into monsters
>>Can you still forge demons into equipment?
Valk either Gun or Helmet(because Valkyrie)
Gurr either Gun or Boots(I still think it's a good idea)
>>We might not get a chance to speak again. I'd like to thank you for everything
>>Other
I've relied on you for much, and you have gained much from me. But I still don't REALLY know you very well. If.....my dad stays here, take care of him, will you? Get to know him, not in THAT way, but I think you'd both enjoy talking about demons.

>>43141693
>Gurr either Gun or Boots(I still think it's a good idea)
Strongly disagree. Lets be honest strong demons are better on the field where they are versatile, not on our feet where we just watch the battle most of time.

>>43141693
No. Valk is our only fire user and Gurr is our only wind.

>>43141718
>>43141727
I already made my arguments, so if you still disagree, ehh.

>>43141623
>>I need advice about an “instrument”. Something that can twist people into monsters
I'll second keeping all our demons as is for now.

File: Scathach.png (203 KB, 323x426)

203 KB PNG

>>43141661
>>43141679
>>43141693
>>43141867

Once again, you need her help – and her wisdom. Does she know anything about an instrument, you don't know what kind, with the power to twist men into monsters? Possibly something sanctified by God, you add.

“The Shofar,” Scathach replies immediately, “Yes, a powerful treasure. It is said that when God blows it, He can elevate men of pure spirit to the level of angels. You would not believe how hard it was to find.” Scathach pauses, before adding; “That was your next question, wasn't it? You wanted to know if I've ever seen such a thing. I have, and I gave it to a human like you. A young man.”

She... gave it to Joseph? Knowing what it can do? Does she know what you had to do because of that damn thing?

“Please,” Scathach cuts through your rising voice with a single word, “How many times have I provided you with weapons? Provided your allies and friends with weapons? I offer my services to anyone who can meet my prices – and that young warrior of God was only too happy to pay. Still, in honour of our continued business relationship... May I see that ring of yours?”

This, you ask as you hold out the ruined New Way ring, this piece of junk?

“That piece of junk contains a fragment of God's power,” Scathach takes the ring and holds it up to her eye, “No... not God. One of his angels, it would seem, and a powerful one at that. Now, this should only take a moment...” Humming softly to herself, Scathach closes her fist around the ring. There is a brief flash of magic, and when she opens her fist again, the ring has returned to gleaming perfection. “It is done,” the witch announces, “This should protect you from the Shofar's magic, as well as any other tricks that angel might have up his sleeves.”

You take the ring in stunned silence, slipping it into your pocket. That's... something, at least.

Itemize all our demons into rings so we can wear all of them at the same time!

>>43141946

To be honest, you're not quite sure if you can look at her in the same way. Once you ignore the mysticism of her deeds, she's little more than an arms dealer, handing out deadly weapons to anyone willing to part with the cash. No, she's worse than that – she's like a wizard leaving shotguns lying around where anyone can pick them up and go wild. Yet, she did provide you with a protective ring without asking for anything in return. That's not the act of a true mercenary, right?

Sighing, you meet her eyes. You might not get another chance to speak with her, you say, so you'd like to at least thank her for the help she's given you. Since you've met, you've grown to rely on her and her magic – a little too much for your liking. Still, it's not been a one-sided relationship, the hulking demon bearing her belongings is testament to that, and you've both benefited from it. What you're trying to say is...

“Yes?” Scathach asks, some faint amusement dancing in her eyes.

Well, your father might be staying in the kingdom, you tell her, and if he does, can you ask her to take care of him? Just look out for him and make sure he stays out of trouble, that's all. He's a pretty interesting guy, you assure Scathach – you're sure that they'd find lots to talk about. Demons mostly, but still!

“It might be nice to have a friend outside the system,” Scathach admits, “Very well, cursed one. I'll keep this interesting father of yours company.”

That's all you can ask for, really. Now you've got the tools to take the fight to Joseph, if need be – but it'll be a fight you'll have to do on your own. One ring, and one ring only.

>Take the fight to Joseph
>Move on the final cornerstone
>Consult with your demons
>Other

>>43142072
>Consult with your demons
Strategy meeting time.

>>43142072
>Consult with your demons
What's the word around town Undine?
Eligor what do you know about Mastema and Beelzebub?

>>43142072
>>Consult with your demons
>>Other
We few, we happy few, we Band of Brothers;
For he to-day that sheds his blood with me
Shall be my brother; be he ne'er so vile,
This day shall gentle his condition:
And gentlemen in England now a-bed
Shall think themselves accursed they were not here,
And hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks
That fought with us upon Saint Crispin's day!

>>43141019
>Highgate Cemetery... isn't Karl Marx buried there? Knowing your luck, you'll have to fight his reanimated body, out to crush the lingering remnants of the capitalist system or something equally stupid. Frankly, you'd prefer Beelzebub.

Maximum kek

File: Undine.png (25 KB, 324x410)

25 KB PNG

>>43142095
>>43142096
>>43142109

You're not doing anything until you know what you're getting into. You bid farewell to Scathach and retreat to an empty room. There you summon Undine, trusting that the little demon's mysterious web of contacts will be as reliable as ever.

“Hey boss, what's the situation?” Undine asks as you call her up.

Well, you were actually hoping she'd be able to tell you that. What's the word about town, you ask, anything out of the ordinary? Like, say, large armies of human-angel hybrids rampaging across the city in search of the last cornerstone?

“Seems like you already know,” Undine laughs nervously, “I'm hearing rumours of giant soldiers scouring graveyards and cemeteries all across London. They certainly match the description... wings, flaming swords, the works.” She shivers, “Bad business. Demons are demons, and humans are humans. That shouldn't change.”

So. Joseph has translated enough of the notes to know that he's looking for a graveyard. Does Undine know what's going on at Highgate in particular?

“Actually, no,” Undine looks away, “Nobody will go near it. There's something going down there, and it's REALLY bad news.”

Is that so? You lean against the wall and scowl as you think. Perhaps Eligor can fill you in on what this bad news might be. Beelzebub, you ask as you summon the demonic knight, what can he tell you?

“The Lord of Flies. Lucifer's most powerful servant. A terrible foe,” Eligor's voice is stoic, but very deliberately so, “It will be a tough battle, no doubt about it, but I have confidence. We CAN beat him.”

“That's the spirit!” Undine cheers, “But... are you sure that's who we're facing? I mean, just asking, but...”

Who else, you ask Eligor, could it be? You've been cutting your way through the ranks of Hell for some time now – Lucifer can't have many pawns left to throw away, right?

“If you say so,” the knight replies darkly.

There's still Astaroth too.

>>43142374
And Surt and a bunch of other Indian dudes.

and Super Demon Leon

>>43142412
he's dead Jim.

>>43142374
I've been expecting Astaroth. Beelz and Beta are probably in the last dungeon.

File: Eligor.jpg (893 KB, 1920x2644)

893 KB JPG

>>43142340

Moving on, does Eligor know anything about an angel by the name of Mastema? Not an archangel, but something else. Something stranger.

“I've heard stories. That's all,” Eligor admits, “An ancient angel, from a different time. He's a bastard and a coward, choosing to work through aliases and agents. He tempts men and leads them astray with illusions of glory and success. I couldn't offer any advice for a straight fight – it is said that he's never had to get his hands dirty.”

You think about this for a moment. Is it possible, you ask, that Mastema is just using Joseph? That he might throw away the young fanatic as soon as he is no longer useful?

“I'm certain of it,” Eligor nods, “When the time comes, the human will be left powerless and defenceless. Easy prey.”

Good, you reply grimly. In a way, knowing that Joseph is little more than a puppet almost makes you feel sorry for him, but then you remember everything that he has done. There was intent there, deliberate choice and action. For that, he is beyond forgiveness. Nodding to yourself, you thank Eligor and Undine for their information and return them to storage. You've got the tools you need, and the information to go with them. The time draws near – once you make your move, you'll be committed.

>Check up on everybody one last time
>Gather your allies and lead the attack
>There's something you need to do first (Write in)

>>43142507
>>Check up on everybody one last time

>There's something you need to do first (Write in)

Offer Morrigan a chance to join the crew.

>>43142507
>Check up on everybody one last time
Maybe tell Carnby about his options with an attempt of no bias. Its his choice.

Then
>Gather your allies and lead the attack
Lets do this.

>>43142507
>>43142532
This

File: Morrigan.jpg (734 KB, 1928x2468)

734 KB JPG

>>43142532
>>43142534
>>43142557

Before you speak with your friends and allies for the last time – the last time before everything goes to hell, at least – you realise that you've got one last thing to do. You've thought, occasionally, about Morrigan, languishing in the dungeons beneath the palace. True, she was little more than a thug when Oberon was in charge, but from what you saw of her you could recognise her skills as a warrior. Maybe she was just following orders – which means she'd be willing to follow your orders. That's a good place to start.

You notice, as you descend into the dungeons, that the guards at the door stand aside and salute you as soon as they see you. You're known here – respected, even. You've got a reputation, and not just a petty measure of fame as a troublemaker. Here, among the fair folk, you could even be considered a hero. It's a touching thought, but you've long since made up your mind – you're going to finish this fight.

Morrigan is sitting, slumped, on a bench when you arrive at her cell, but the sound of your footsteps draws her attention. Her hand has grown back, you notice. That's good – you have little use for her as a cripple.

“What do you want, human?” she asks. Her voice is without spite, but harsh nonetheless. Perhaps it's always harsh. She seems like the type to be harsh no matter what.

Nice cell, you begin as you glance at the dripping stone ceiling. You could chat some more, you continue, but you'd rather not talk through the bars in a jail cell.

“Didn't you hear?” Morrigan snaps back, “I'm a traitor. My life is forfeit. The only reason I haven't been put to death is that everyone has forgotten about me.”

If they've forgotten about her, you suggest, then they won't mind if you let her out, will they? Of course, you can't let her roam free, but if she was willing to join your service...

>>43142734

Morrigan glares at you for a long moment. “I have little choice, do I?” she asks wearily, “Especially if the alternative is a slow death in this miserable cell. Fine then, human, I'll offer my sword. I hope you're a more honourable master than Oberon was – but it would be difficult to be less competent than that fool.”

How quickly an allegiance can shift. You call out to one of the guards who approaches and, although they give you a sceptical look as you explain your plans, they hand over the cell key. As the door swings open you shift your weight slightly in anticipation of a rushed attack, but no such attack comes. It seems that Morrigan is actually being true to her word – she serves you now. After dropping to her knee in a gesture of willing servitude, Morrigan dissipates and retreats to your summoning device. She'll have fun, you think to yourself, when she realises that she'll be stuck in there with Heartless.

Chuckling at the thought of those two growling and snarling at each other, you return to where your friends were plotting their attack. Outside, you can hear them bickering although, you will admit, most of the arguing sounds to be in good spirits. Petra is in the middle of some jibe aimed at Cassandra's recent relationship when you enter, the words dying in her mouth as the pair straighten up. They really do see you as a leader, you realise with amazement. What's more, you're starting to feel like one.

“She started it!” Cassandra is quick to blurt out, but you silence them both with a good humoured wave.

You were just here, you tell them, to check up. To make sure that they're certain about following you into this next battle. If either of them wants to bow out and stay here, you assure them, now is the time.

>>43142894

“Never,” Petra shakes her head emphatically, “We're in this together until the end, yes?” Then, with a grin: “Whether you like it or not!”

Cassandra is a little slower to reply. “I've... got something here,” she murmurs, “I mean, I could have something here. If I stayed here. Which I'm not doing.” Shaking her head and taking a breath, she begins again. “We've come this far together, Amelia, and I'm not going to back down now. Besides – you, uh, you need someone to keep you out of trouble, right?”

Damn right, you agree as you return their warm smiles. You wouldn't force them to come along, but you're damn glad to have them at your back. Now, you announce, you just need to find the professor. He's walking again, you realise as you notice the empty wheelchair, and that means one thing only. He's dragged himself back down to the archives, of course.

That's where you find him, leaning heavily on a stick and peering at the rows of ancient books. You clear your throat and he turns to greet you, a pained smile on his face.

“Amelia, I...” Carnby's smile turns guilty as he looks at you, “I've decided to stay here. That's what you were here to ask, isn't it? The world out there...” Still smiling weakly, Carnby looks up at the rows and row of books, “It's no place for an old man like me. Out there, I'd only slow you down. This was a hard decision to make – it feels like I'm abandoning you – but...”

He trails off here. So this is it, huh? This might be the last time you'll have the chance to see him, to talk to him.

>Don't leave me, please!
>This is for the best
>I'm proud of you, dad. Stay here, and live a good life
>Other

>>43143020
>>This is for the best
>>I'm proud of you, dad. Stay here, and live a good life
>>Other
Give me Hastur, unless you think you'll need him.

>>43143020
>This is for the best
>I'm proud of you, dad. Stay here, and live a good life

Give him one last hug.

>>43143041
>Give me Hastur, unless you think you'll need him.
Something tells me he would never give that to his daughter. Too much of a price attached.

>>43143020
>This is for the best
>I'm proud of you, dad. Stay here, and live a good life

>>43143064
Itemizable

At least one free use left, if it doesn't reset with a change in owners.

And of course dramatic set up for our own self sacrifice for victory

Do we even know Carnby has Hastur? I mean he's never used it in front of us or anything

>>43143141
We don't actually.

>>43143041
>>43143042
>>43143087

It's for the best, you agree softly. Then, as tears fill your eyes, you lurch forwards and take your father in a tight embrace. His stick clatters to the ground as he drops it, surprised by your sudden attack, but you soon feel his hands on your back. You were never one for emotional displays, but this... this feels right.

You're proud of him, you murmur before adding, in an awkward voice: dad. The affectionate term still feels strange on your lips, so you hastily move on. Stay here, you tell him, and live a good life. He should do whatever he needs to do to be happy.

“I will,” Carnby tells you quietly, holding you close for a moment longer before forcefully separating himself from you. “Now come on, don't you have anything better to do?” he forces a laugh, rubbing his eyes slightly, “Something, uh, important?”

Right, of course. Then again, if he doesn't need it, you were wondering if you could borrow that mystery demon he has. It's got to be something special, right, if he's been keeping it secret all this time?

“No,” Carnby's smile drops away, “Don't ask. Please, don't even think about it. I'm not a strict man, but this time, I'm putting my foot down. There are some places that you must NOT go. Do you hear me? Do you?”

You falter slightly at the sight of your father's sudden anger – and the fear behind it. Cowed, you nod silently. Perhaps he's right – better not to meddle in certain affairs, especially when you have more important matters to attend to. Before you leave, you grab Carnby's hand and give it a squeeze. Then, with the sensation of his flesh pressing against your own still fresh in your memory, you hurry from the archive.

Hey dude that wants to itemize Gurr, Morrigan has wind magic so u should argue ur case some more

>>43143376
Its never been about elemental spread with Gurr. He is just a good versatile demon. Simple as that.

>>43143337

Your tears have dried when you return to the foyer, and the sight of Cassandra and Petra waiting warmly for you does wonders to lift your spirits. You hurry to join them, and then lead them from the palace. As you leave, you turn to take one last look at the palace. It was home, for a while, but now you're moving on again – just like you left your old apartment, and the hospital that came after it. Just... keep moving forwards.

“Is everything okay?” Cassandra asks softly, lowering her voice so that Petra doesn't overhear, “Your eyes are red. He chose to stay, didn't he?”

Everything is fine, you promise her. Yes, Carnby chose to stay behind, but that's good. This way, you can focus all your attentions on the battle ahead of you. Then you can focus on the next battle, and the one after that, and the one...

“Okay, okay,” Cassandra holds up a weary hand, “It can't last forever though, right? I mean, obviously it can't.”

“Smoke,” Petra shouts, pointing off towards the horizon. True enough, there is a pillar of greasy black smoke rising into the air. Of course, it comes from the direction of Highgate Cemetery. Of course. “We'll have company when we arrive, yes? I look forwards to it!”

You were expecting company. This doesn't change anything. Still, the conversation between the three of you dies as you slog towards the graveyard. The gates are open – broken and hanging off their hinges – when you arrive, and the dirt beneath your feet is already marked with a trail of footprints. Large one, like those of Joseph's shining warriors. They were here – perhaps they still are. You keep your eyes and ears open as you walk through the rows of crumbling gravestones, but everything is silent.

The smell, though, is that of burning flesh.

>>43143574

You follow the pillar of smoke to its source, gagging as you spy the mound of bodies. Broken and burned, their limbs tangling together into lunatic knots, you can nevertheless recognise the oversized forms of Joseph's hybrid soldiers. Someone killed them all and piled their bodies here, before lighting the whole stack up. Wait, you tell Cassandra and Petra as you notice something. A lone body – that of a normal human – slumped on a chair at the top of the pile. Someone put it there deliberately, like a king on a mocking throne. The body is black and red with raw flesh and charred skin, and the face is covered with a sack.

Could it be Joseph, brought low by the power of Lucifer's servant?

>Approach the body. You need to see the face
>It's just a dead body. Move on.
>Other

>>43143658
>Approach the body. You need to see the face
Have Eligor out, just in case. I don't want to get blindsided again.

>>43143658
>Approach the body. You need to see the face

>>43143658
>>Approach the body. You need to see the face
>Other
Eligor, Heartless, Cernunnos. I summon thee!

Petra, Cass, get yo demons out!

>>43143658
>>Approach the body. You need to see the face
Wouldn't be surprised if Joseph died like a scrub tbh

I'm not sure, but I don't think this is the Lord of Flies handiwork. Might be wrong though.

You know Cass has come a long way.
From law hero to cucu's waifu.

>>43143684
>>43143695
>>43143751
>>43143756

If this is a trap, it couldn't be more obvious. A body laid out like that, with the smoke trail to lead you right to it? Nothing subtle about it, but it's got your attention. If it IS Joseph at the top of that pile, you need to know about it. You NEED to see the face. That doesn't mean you're going to investigate on your own, though – you've learned that lesson well. You call up Eligor to watch your back, even as Cassandra and Petra fan out to search the area. You add Heartless and Cernunnos to your ranks as you approach the stack of bodies, and watch as your allies prepare to summon their own soldiers.

The pile shifts and settles as you climb up it, the stench invading your nostrils. Not so bad, you tell yourself, not as bad as gouging out the eye, or shooting those deformed beasts. Just another piece of your humanity flaking away as you stomp over mangled bodies. Forcing the thought from you mind, you reach out and pull the sack from the human corpse's head. It looks... like a corpse. Most of the flesh has shrunken into a deep red skull of a face – lips, nose and eyelids all burned away. The eyes themselves are dull, glassy. You grimace as you study the face, trying to discern an identity. Something about it looks familiar, maybe. Some bluntness of the features.

A hand shoots up and clamps around your throat with an iron grip. As a strangled scream is choked out of you, the burned corpse stands, lifting you into the air with a contemptuous strength. Once lifeless, the eyes are now burning with rage and power. As you feel the air being choked from your lungs, the burned body gurgles out a few words.

“Aye,” it rasps, “Weren't expectin' me, were you?”

Impossible, you gasp, it can't be! It CAN'T be!

No way. No fucking way.

>>43143852
That's actually something I've been wondering: how much have we diverged from the obvious (not necessarily bad) Leon = Chaos Hero/Cassandra = Law Hero backdrop, and has Petra become a different character than she would have been otherwise?

CEREAL IS NOT CANDY, CAPTCHA

File: Hell yeah motherfuckah.jpg (12 KB, 188x268)

12 KB JPG

>>43143915
>“Aye,” it rasps, “Weren't expectin' me, were you?”

I was always expecting you.

File: CaoCaoLaugh.webm (2.16 MB, 720x400)

2.16 MB WEBM

He's....dead Jim...?

All aboard the ruse cruise. Destination: Hell

File: Leon's dad.jpg (6 KB, 275x183)

6 KB JPG

After a 27 thread disappearance. He's back.

Don't fuck with this Scotsman.

File: Barghest.jpg (30 KB, 500x500)

30 KB JPG

>>43143915

A savage laugh escapes the corpse as it throws you, hurling you away with brutal strength. You hit the ground hard and feel a sickening jolt of pain as something inside you breaks. The pain is immediately followed by the crawling sensation of your wounds closing up, the magic in your ring knitting flesh back together. Coughing and forcing yourself upright, you sent a curt order for your demons to stand at the ready – but to hold back, for now.

He's dead, you protest, he's... you saw his ghost! You saw Leon's fucking ghost!

“You saw,” the corpse growls as it descends towards you, “What I threw away. Humanity, mercy – nae fuckin' need for that shite. Not in this world! I'm stronger now, and I'll fuckin' prove it!”

You hear, as the corpse reaches the ground, a chorus of howls. Hellhounds of all description slink out of the graveyard to assail your allies, and soon the air is thick with the sound of their battles. You're on your own here – just you and your demons against this... thing. This... tainted puppet. At Leon's side, his hands curl into fists. You... you don't know what to do.

>He's got to listen to reason! You've just got to get through to him!
>Peace was never an option. This time, you'll make sure he stays dead

>>43144076
>Peace was never an option. This time, you'll make sure he stays dead
If you've cast of your humanity, then you'll die like every other demon I've fought.

>>43144076
>Peace was never an option. This time, you'll make sure he stays dead
"I've made my peace with the part of you that matters. Lets do this."

>>43144076
>>He's got to listen to reason! You've just got to get through to him!

Heartless, begin negotiations!

>>43144110
I am now imagining Heartless in suit getting ready for diplomatic negotiations.

>>43144076
>Peace was never an option. This time, you'll make sure he stays dead

C'mon guys. This is the husbando we've been waiting for.

Rolled 47, 54, 2 = 103 (3d100)

>>43144100
>>43144101
>>43144162

No. He's a demon now – this is no different to any of the other demon's you've fought and killed. You've made your peace with the part of him that was human, you tell Leon, and that's all you needed. If he was so willing to cast off his humanity, then he's made himself your enemy!

“I was always your enemy,” Leon spits, bloody spittle flying from his exposed teeth. Lines of glowing red power flicker down his arms, gathering in his fists as he sneers at you, “Nae other way this was gonna end, you dumb fuckin' cunt.”

Then you understand each other, you reply with a snarl, that's good – that's really good. Then, with a mental command to your waiting demons, you launch the attack.

>Please roll 3D100, for Eligor, Heartless and Cernunnos. I'll take the highest of the first three!

Rolled 55, 63, 17 = 135 (3d100)

>>43144238
pls

Rolled 46, 26, 61 = 133 (3d100)

>>43144183
>Demon
>husbando
No comprende' Senior

>>43144238

Rolled 80, 96, 4 = 180 (3d100)

>>43144238
LEON!

Holy crap Leon. Git fucking gud

Rolled 64, 11, 91 = 166 (3d100)

>>43144267
>>43144258

Eligor strikes quickly, his steed launching into a brutal charge. The devil knight's lance strikes home with deadly force, punching right through Leon's torso and burying itself in the ground – pinning the changed human to the earth like a bug. The wound doesn't bleed, but a thick sludge does boil out from both ends. The fluid stinks, the acrid smell reaching you even through the burned smell that hangs heavily in the air.

Cernunnos and Heartless strike next, simultaneously lunging towards the trapped man. Cernunnos grabs hold of Leon's right arm, lifting it up and holding it, defenceless, to that Heartless can rip through the entire limb in a single blow. If Leon feels even the slightest hint of pain, he doesn't show it – merely slumping silently to the ground. The breath dies in your throat as he reaches for his arm, unhurried and utterly at ease, and pressed it to the open wound at his shoulder. Flesh writhes for a moment, and then he is whole again. Before you can react, he grabs Eligor's lance, still sticking through him, and tugs, sending the knight tumbling from his steed with a startled cry.

“Thought it'd be that fuckin' easy?” the changed human snarls, “I'm fuckin' invincible, so take yer best shot!”

No way. No fucking way.

>Keep attacking, something has to work! (Roll 2D100, for Heartless and Cernunnos. Best of 3 again)
>This is futile, change tactics (Write in)

>>43144481
>>This is futile, change tactics (Write in

I call upon the elements to defeat you Leon!

Hres, Valk, Gurr

Fire, Wind, Lightning, Ice

Hit him with everything. Something's gotta work.

>>43144481
>>This is futile, change tactics (Write in)
Have Heartless keep chopping him up.

Summon Hres and freeze him, replace Eligor.
Summon Gurr, use Lightning, replace Cern

>>43144481
Swap Eligor out for Hjres
Swap Cern out for pixie

Freeze and shock him. If that fails heal him and see what that does.

File: heartvsbrain.jpg (103 KB, 471x477)

103 KB JPG

>tfw you realize you just gotta hug it out if you wanna win.

>>43144481
>“I'm fuckin' invincible
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=chPJ7x9iMw0

File: Hresvelgr.jpg (533 KB, 1936x2380)

533 KB JPG

Rolled 40, 64, 45 = 149 (3d100)

>>43144545
>>43144535
>>43144559

Just slugging away at some freak that can seal his wounds in an instant isn't going to get you anywhere, you're going to need to try some new things. If just hitting him won't work, maybe magic will make an impact? You fumble for your phone and hurry to return Eligor and Cernunnos to storage, but it is too late for the brave knight. Pulled from his horse and stunned, all Eligor can do is block Leon's brutal punch with his forearms. It works... somewhat.

The punch strikes the armoured demon's arms with sickening force, both limbs snapping like twigs and hanging loose in the broken armour. A pained scream escapes Eligor as you return him to storage, but it seems to linger with you as you call up Hresvelgr to replace him. Gurr materialises to replace Cernunnos, swooping up into the air. You're preparing to order them to attack when you notice something, some irregularity on the back of Leon's neck. It looks like a spike, made from black bone and radiating those red lines. Is that... the source of his power?

Worth a try, you decide, as you urge Hresvelgr to freeze the changed human. Maybe you can hold him in place for a moment, just long enough for you to get a better look. If that doesn't work, perhaps lightning will. Meanwhile, you nod for Heartless to press the attack – to keep Leon busy, if nothing else.

>Please roll 3D100, for Hres, Heartless and Gurr. Best of three again.

Rolled 44, 58, 3 = 105 (3d100)

>>43144796
>It looks like a spike, made from black bone and radiating those red lines.
Oh....Oh shit. The fucker got Magatama'd.

Rolled 10, 31, 29 = 70 (3d100)

>>43144796
Imma beat you!

Rolled 15, 96, 18 = 129 (3d100)

>>43144796
pls

Rolled 36, 66, 15 = 117 (3d100)

>>43144796

>>43144882
Good ol' Jack.
Where would we be without him?

>>43144921
Eaten by a ghoul in thread 1.

>>43144629
Listening to it now, the lyrics of Sam's theme match up with Petra alot.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaZGXHZ6ixI

File: Heartless.jpg (187 KB, 944x1644)

187 KB JPG

>>43144882
>>43144861
>>43144831

Lightning crackles around Gurr's wings as it begins to summon a bolt of thunder. Before the spell can be completed, however, Leon has crossed the battlefield in an instant, swinging a glowing fist up into Gurr. The blow strikes your winged demon in the chest, crushing the bones there and collapsing the flesh inwards. Blood pours forth as Gurr gurgles, legs kicking spasmodically as it crumples to the ground. Mere moments later, its body begins to decay and turn to dust. Yet, that moment is all the distraction Hresvelgr needs to blanket the ground around Leon in frost. It doesn't seem to harm him, but it pins him in place.

And things that are pinned in place around Heartless tend not to live for very long. Your murderous demon lashes out at Leon, reaching up with what almost seems to be a leisurely hand to touch the side of Leon's head. It's just your imagination, but the scene seems to freeze there for a moment, Leon's burned face frozen in an expression of spite and rage before time reasserts itself and Heartless' hand rips free. Leon's head, thick blood dripping from the stump of the neck, spins through the air in a lazy arc. The body crumples, collapsing to the ground.

Yet, a moment later it begins to crawl, dragging itself towards the severed head. Not even that was enough to put him down for good? Grimacing, you cross over to the floundering body and pin it down. You see it now, that bone spike. Beneath the surface, thin tendrils lash and wave, reaching out from the wound to seek his severed head. There's something there, giving him a form of unholy life. All it would take to end Leon's existence once and for all would be to reach in and rip it out. That's it.

>End him
>There has to be another way! (Write in)

>>43145125
Surrender Leon, Humanity still ahs promise if you're willing to fight for it. You've lost, just and God and Lucifer WILL lose. I gave you a chance before you ran off at Alice, and I'm giving you one now. Submit, or die.

Put our hand on his Magatama, he has 5 seconds after we say it before we start pulling.

>>43145191
>>43145125
On second thought, yeah. Be our demon or die.

>>43145125
>End him
Its honestly a little pathetic. Let the guy die already.

>>43145125
>>There has to be another way! (Write in)

C'mon Leon. Being my demon would be great.

>>43145125
Swiggity swag get in the Demon Summoning Program

>>43145303
>>43145207
>>43145191

It would be so easy to kill him now, just reach into his neck, rip out whatever monstrosity is buried beneath and crush it in your fist. Quick, easy, and it would finish things once and for all. The problem is, you don't want to do it. He's at your mercy, and you can't bring yourself to end him. Desperation rises up in you as you yearn for an excuse, a reason not to go through with this,

Surrender, you spit at him, just give up. He's lost – you've beaten him, just like you'll beat God, Lucifer and anything else that stands in your way. He's not beyond saving, you plead, humanity still has promise. Taking a deep breath to calm yourself, you force yourself to continue. You gave him a chance to join you before, and he rushed off to die at Alice's hands. Now, you're giving him a chance to save himself. Submit, bend the knee, and you'll let him live. If not... you press a hand to the sickeningly warm flesh of his neck. Five seconds, you tell him. Five seconds to decide.

His answer, when it comes, echoes out from the stump of his neck. It's a simple answer, and not one that takes the whole five seconds.

“Go to hell!” Leon gurgles simply, spiteful until the end. Gritting your teeth, you dig your fingers into the meat of his neck and tear into his flesh, ripping out the ball of hard chitin beneath. In your grip, it wriggles and writhes for a moment before you crush it, oily juices leaking out from the shattered bug. At last, the body beneath you falls still. Soon, it'll start to decay like all the rest.

He's dead, Jim.

File: 1439440650859.jpg (15 KB, 192x171)

15 KB JPG

>>43145377
>He's dead, Jim.

Ah well. Defiant to the end, thats just like him.

File: crying feelguy.jpg (9 KB, 216x233)

9 KB JPG

>>43145377

>>43145377
"You first Leon."

>>43145377

You're still slumped on the ground when Cassandra and Petra approach you, both of them splattered with demon blood. They're fine, at least – uninjured.

“Some fight, yes?” Petra asks cheerfully, “There were many dogs indeed!”

“Amelia?” Cassandra butts in, her voice timid, “Was that... was it really him?”

Was it? You don't really know. There might have been something human in there once, but by the end of it, there was nothing left but a demon of rage and hate. Something you helped create, even if it was never your intention. When Cassandra repeats her question, her voice reduced to a whisper, you merely shrug. What, exactly, does she expect you to say? In the end, you force yourself to your feet and shake the heavy thoughts from your mind. He made his choice, and you made yours. In the end, you were the one to survive. That's all there is to it.

“Let's just find the cornerstone, okay?” Cassandra suggests, “I mean, just keep moving forwards. That's all we can do, right?”

Right. Keep moving forwards. It's almost over.

>I'm going to end things here for tonight. Next thread on Tuesday/Wednesday, and I'll stay a while in case of questions.

>Moment of silence (again) for Leon please!

>>43145527
Don't worry guys, he comes back in Resurrection of L, where he gets himself a golden nose plate.

>>43145527
So did you enjoy the reaction of the players? Was there any way to turn him to our side? Lucifer having a chuckle about what he pulled? Petra understand the significance? Will we run into someone else who Magatama'd up but is batting for the other team we're fighting?

>>43145527
Repeating my question from before:
>>43143947

Could you imagine if we got him and some poor sod reading through the archives checks Amelia's character sheet and sees: Super Demon Leon when they are on like thread 3.

>>43145573

I will admit, every time I saw someone suggesting demon Leon returning, I had a little laugh. As for turning him to our side, it was never an option. He was too far gone - he would have ripped himself to bits if it would have hurt Amelia. Lucifer is always laughing about this stuff - it's a world of strength, after all! Petra never knew Leon, so the whole thing went over her head. At least she had plenty of dogs to fight!

As for the magatama thing, well, I'll keep that one to myself.

>>43145594

Leon was unlikely to ever sway far from the Chaos hero camp, but Cassandra fell very far. I originally planned to have her stay Lawful, but the more I wrote her, the less it felt appropriate. It just didn't feel like how she'd react.

Petra is... odd. When I introduced her, I wasn't quite sure where I was going to go with her. I just liked the idea of someone who survived on their own, without being part of the greater whole. So, I suppose she did turn out pretty different!

>>43145749
>>43145594

Oh, there was one rough idea I had for Leon/Cassandra character arcs. I had the idea of them swapping alignments. Cassandra, seeing that God was nothing more than a tyrant ruling through strength, would have gone Chaotic while Leon, recognizing God as the ultimate strength, would have gone Lawful.

>>43145749
I take it he blamed her for his death then? Why would Lucifer laugh if it costs him the cornerstone? Does he or Metatron have any inkling of our true goal? Have we read Petra in about the Outside yet? We're going to have to face Joseph alone aren't we? Since the ring doesn't extend the protection to our friends.

>>43145783
Huh, that would have been something. Wonder how Amelia and by extension, we'd react.

>>43145808
We could always hold hands with them

>>43145808
>We're going to have to face Joseph alone aren't we? Since the ring doesn't extend the protection to our friends.
Yup!

>>43142072
>That's all you can ask for, really. Now you've got the tools to take the fight to Joseph, if need be – but it'll be a fight you'll have to do on your own. One ring, and one ring only.

>>43145808

Leon didn't blame us at first, but he was pretty easy to convince. He was already pretty mad about Amelia deserting, so it just went from there. Lucifer takes the view that any of his minions that die were, ultimately, too weak to be of any use. He's still certain he can talk us around - pride is his weakness, after all! Both God and Lucifer are ultimately oblivious to the Outsider, so they assume we're just trying to wreck stuff for the hell of it. I think Petra knows about the Outsider, but in pretty broad terms - she's not much of a details person anyway. As for Joseph, unless Amelia can get that instrument away from him, she'll be going it alone.

>>43145821

Oh, the usual. Suffering, killing your friends, that kind of thing!

File: MakeThemProud.jpg (401 KB, 400x920)

401 KB JPG

>>43145928
>Oh, the usual. Suffering, killing your friends, that kind of thing!
Yeah...

>>43145928
What would happen if we told them? is it conceivable we stumble upon a magatama?

>>43145961
>is it conceivable we stumble upon a magatama
Didn't we just do that? Crushed it and everything.

>>43145947
It just occurs to me this pic needs one of those "alone at a party" edits.
>I wish Pascal and my mom were here

>>43145990
I meant an unowned one.

>>43145961

Disbelief would be my thought. Lucifer is too proud to imagine something like the Outsider existing without his knowledge, and Metatron wouldn't accept the existence of any kind of power outside of God.

As for the Magatama, it's not utterly out of the question, but I'd not planned for anything. There are a few secrets left to unearth though, so you never know!

>>43146012
If you are thinking about using it, let me quote Moloch from a few months ago.

>"Amelia is going live and die as a human."

>>43146036
>"Amelia was born 100% human and she'll die 100% human."

Close enough.

>>43146036
If someone told Petra it was full of murder-power though, she'd gobble that thing up like candy

>>43146036
I was thinking more, emergency revive for our friends or saving them from getting SHofar'd

>>43146066
Anon no.
Don't forget what we are fighting for. Morphing our friends into pseudo demons just for an easier ride would honestly be OOC.

>>43146066
Super demon . . .Petra?

>>43146091
>saving them from getting SHofar'd
We'll be fighting Joe solo anyways.

>>43146123
He could easily get with blowing range and trigger it in an attempt to remove us.

>>43146091

Well, a Magatama could bring someone back, even from death - there might be side-effects, however!

Y'know, like Leon being southern fried. Why was he so mad? His junk got burned off.

>>43146158
Demifiend was lucky then. He only lost his shirt.

So speaking of this Shofar thing, did Scathach really just give it to Joseph? That's a pretty scummy thing to do

>>43146220
He traded something of equivalent value for it, obviously.

>>43146220
Its business, just like she does with us. She just gave us the knuckleduster that killed Lilith and severed Mot's arm. Don't make it personal.

>>43146158
I don't got no dick, Amelia. No dick, man. You don't know what that's like . . .Ok you do know what that's like, but no dick!

>>43146220

Fairies - no sense of right and wrong!

>>43146249

He "donated" a number of angels to medical science. It's not often that you get someone who can summon and angel and is willing to give it up, so they fetch a high price

>>43146264

That's right. Scathach is half businessman, half mad scientist. She goes where the profit lies.

>>43146352
>businessman

businesswoman, Moloch! Check your privilege.

>>43146387

I have committed a grave sin today

>>43146443
And Petra can see it.

>>43146443
Probably less than Amelia commits daily.

>>43146468

And if Joseph comes over here blowing that horn bullshit I'll turn into a hideous blob monster

Then I really can move to tumblr!

File: 1431985132269.gif (2.11 MB, 220x190)

2.11 MB GIF

>>43146515
>Then I really can move to tumblr!
Zing!

>>43146515
Oh snap!

File: Hee Ho.png (338 KB, 720x464)

338 KB PNG

Moloch won't give me Hastur.
Moloch won't give me Super Demon Leon.

Moloch never lets me have fun!

I get the feeling that when we get to the tower it isn't going to be as easy as just "climb up".

Expectations?

>>43146759
Leon was a dick. Good riddance

>>43146759
>Thanks for the Life Stone hee ho!
>I'll give you a gift ho!
>Received Life Stone.

Every time.

>>43146789
>Expectations?
Like Nocturne's final tower. A lot of different shit in there.

Hopefully it has rest spots and shops like Nocturne too.

>>43146789
It's going to be that bonus dungeon in reverse, with no rest spots, or places to get aided. Moloch rolls a 100 once we lose.

>>43146845

No rest or help? You'd have to be pretty cruel to impose a limit like that!

>>43146902
Hope for the best, prepare for the worst. I hope I'm pleasantly surprised.

File: SMT 5 final boss.jpg (153 KB, 600x450)

153 KB JPG

>>43146789
It wouldn't be SMT if we didn't climb a big tower and fight a disco ball at the top.

Cass/CuCu pastebin when?

>>43147028
What do you need to polish your own Gae Bolge or something?

>>43147058
Asking for a friend tbh fam

>>43147098
Are you going to help polish his Gae Bolge then?

>>43143376
was asleep. Morrigan was an interesting catch, though.

We have waaaay too many physicals, seriously..