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You are Alberich: apparent knight, demonstrable killer, familiar twice over, possible relation of Gods, and modern hero. In the uncertain hours between one day and the next, you've just been awoken by a truly singular visitor.
On the night of November 13, 2019, you found yourself in a dimly lit stone basement, standing in the middle of a magic circle. You had been summoned as a Servant, a figure out of legend contracted after their death to fight alongside a magus for the Holy Grail. In your case, however, you were and conned by Judas Iscariot into taking his place despite not being any such thing.
After spending a few days learning about the Holy Grail War and your surroundings, you and your Master went into battle and met with utter defeat. Though you expected to die with the expiry of the magical energy he supplied you, however, he had prepared for his death. You were contracted in the aftermath to his younger sister, Shijou Ayaka. It was under her scrutiny that you discovered the truth of your identity: an artificial soul born on that night of November 13, given the false memories of Yumigawa Rushorou, raised in the dilated time of the Akeldama and elevated beyond humanity through Judas' careful planning.
The two of you have fared better, in large part due to Ayaka's ability to transfer a portion of the power held by the foes you've slain to you. In the days since that transfer of contract, you have found repeated triumph. Rider, Berserker, and Archer have died by your hand. Saber, the Servant who slew your first Master, has been captured and converted to your service by the power of your magic. Circe and Adelheid, your treacherous Servants from the past, have been violently returned to your allegiance.
Due to these battles the drain on the natural magic of the land below Tokyo has begun to take its toll, and as the War is lengthened the city seems to be draw ever nearer to utter doom. For a short time you found yourself a comrade the last War's survivors, the Emiya family, but were compelled to betray them after discovering that they mean to dismantle the Holy Grail which is the source of Tokyo's devastation and your only chance to survive beyond the end of the War.
Since, you've made a truer bond, of alliance and affection, with Liliesviel von Einzbern: a girl who calls you her brother, having led a love-starved life and desiring it in any form; and whose lamentable circumstances, of artificial creation and ascribed purpose, are painfully similar to your own.
None of your experiences have changed your goal. Whatever the purpose or origin of your life, and regardless of who stands in your way, there is only one path before you. You will take the Holy Grail with your own hands.
Four Servants remain to fall by your sword.

Previous thread:
>>4003396


Suptg Archive:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Sweets-Loving%20QM

Status Information:
https://pastebin.com/qsKX4p5b
>>
Saying such a thing with those crimson cheeks, and her previous comment about wanting it to be conducted at night... Liliesviel's visiting you alone, in your be, to 'become one'... The pieces fall into place in your mind, and heat rises to your cheeks as you find yourself suddenly sharing a portion of Liliesviel's embarrassment. Does she mean what you believe she does? Could an act of such a nature truly be a magical ritual? Yet, there is what you know of the transmission of magical energy through bodily fluids, and the significance of blood and death in magic of the soul. If that sort of intimacy should be so potent, it seems sensible for the other variety to have an equal, if not greater, capacity to affect the soul, when properly ritualized.

At the thought, thus rationalized and made believable, immodest passion ignites within you and quickens your pulse. Almost unconsciously you sit up straighter, rising from the headboard to lean forward and bring yourself closer to Liliesviel. The detached, ever-observant portion of your mind notes as you do so that the sheets fall from your torso and your visitor's eyes are momentarily drawn to your nudity, her flush deepening. The majority of your attention, however, is given over to drinking in her modest, nervous beauty with the renewed sensitivity of desire. Trembling lips pressed together in apprehension, now of a shade with her flushed cheeks; ruby eyes, so lately glossy with tears of a despair now happily behind you; pearlescent hair, cascading over her garment in broad waves unrestrained by her ordinary ribbons; flawless skin, glimpsed so tantalizingly through her bizarre costume. The whole portrait before you is of such astonishing purity and sweetness that you are almost overcome, and seize her, drawing her into a rough embrace and devouring kiss without another word.

But no. With a masterful effort of will, you rein in your desire and, in a tone not ravenous but gentle and tender, answer, "I'd like that a great deal, Liliesviel. I've told you already that I love you, haven't I?" Smiling, you add, "Even if there weren't any ritual involved, I'd accept your proposition with joy as a confirmation that you return my feelings. If," you amend, "I understand you correctly."

"...you do," Liliesviel murmurs almost inaudibly, staring into her lap and looking, if possible, even more embarrassed than before. You're not too blind to observe, though, that her expression includes joy as well as modesty. "I've made all of the preparations already, so... even if I am, ah... distracted, the heavenly garment will make sure the ritual is completed. Once I... give myself to you, our souls will be linked, and you really will become an Einzbern; to receive as I do the complete miracle of the Heaven's Feel." Explaining the purely magical side of the ritual seems to have a calming effect on Liliesviel, for her voice steadies and she's able to look you in the eye again as she does so.
>>
"Wonderful," you say. "In that case, how shall we begin?" With Liliesviel before you this way, and your own desire so great, you feel as if you might pounce on her at any moment; but after the anguish she's already suffered as a result of your selfishness, you don't want even to frighten her momentarily, and so continue to hold yourself back, making absolutely certain that she is as prepared as possible. It isn't an easy task, and the moment between your question and your Liliesviel's reply seems to stretch into an eternity as you listen to the pounding of your own heart, longing against your better self to push her down and slake your passion without restraint.

Seemingly unaware of your internal war between desire and affection, Liliesviel takes a deep breath, one hand pressed over her heart, to steady herself and achieve some mastery over her nerves. Then, at last, looking at you with that nervous, maidenly expression that so inflames your desire, stretches her arms out, and says, "Just hold me for a while, until I've calmed down. Please?"

You don't speak in reply, but only reach out and pull her to you, embracing the girl as chastely as you can manage despite the fresh waves of lust prompted by the sensation of her body, the heat of her cheek against yours, and even the feeling of her rapid heartbeat. For a long moment the two of you cling together in silence this way, as you comfort her, stroking her hair and wordlessly reassuring the wounded girl once more of the solidity of your presence and feelings for her. Gradually you begin to feel the rapid pounding of her heart slow, until finally she breathes a heated sigh into your ear before pulling away just enough to face you, and whisper slowly, "Thank you, Alberich. I think I'm ready now. You can kiss me, and after that... I've learned from Stachel and Stengel what to do, in case a moment like this came."

"Gladly," comes your murmured reply, and so saying you press your lips to hers. This time, however, you do not stop at her lips, but plunge into her mouth and, in time, give full expression to your love and satisfaction to your lust. Thus, as the night stretches on, the two artificial souls cast aside the purity with which they were endowed upon their creation and forge between them a new link, forever cementing their two spirits as one.

Status Updated
>>
Shijou Manor, Tokyo - November 22, 2019, Friday

Out of a sleep both short and dreamless you rise suddenly to consciousness. Your eyes open to take in the now-familiar sight of your bed's canopy, richly festooned with embroidered silk, velvet, and lace. Your ears discover only a few notes of birdsong, and as you sit up and examine the minimal light your initial guess is confirmed. It's dawn, and you've had only a few hours sleep. Despite this, after last night's ecstatic events you feel energized enough to slaughter every remaining foe in the War without resting another moment.

No, no, you tell yourself. Calm down. However reasonable a certain degree of good cheer may be on the morning after such a night of military and romantic triumph, this hyperbole is too much. All the same, you don't feel any desire to go back to sleep. Beside you, Liliesviel lies unconscious against your pillow, a picture of tranquil rest as she makes no more motion than to softly breathe. Most likely the rest of the manor is similarly asleep, for you hear no sounds of action from below the floor or outside the walls of your bedroom, and in a house as old as this every action is typically accompanied by some subtle creak, groan, or other sundry protestation of the aging wood.

>[ ] Rouse Liliesviel, to discuss a matter from last night. (Which topic? Her 'getting to know' Circe? The results of your ritual? Something else?)

>[ ] Go and take a shower, then visit some other part of the mansion. (Write in where you want to go and what for. Talk to one of your other companions? Study in the library? Summon a new beast from the Reverse Side in the basement?)

>[ ] Meditate on your bodily condition. Try to determine whether you can feel any change due to the ritual.

>[ ] Do something else. (Write in)
>>
>predatory charisma
YOU MADMAN
YOU ACTUALLY DID IT.
>>
>>4038164
You know I always come through!
>>
>Predatory Charisma: C
That should help us explain it to Circe.
>>
>>4038161
>[ ] Meditate on your bodily condition. Try to determine whether you can feel any change due to the ritual.
>[ ] Rouse Liliesviel, to discuss a matter from last night. (Results of the ritual, her discussion with Circe)
>>
>>4038161
>[ ] Rouse Liliesviel, to discuss a matter from last night. (Which topic? Her 'getting to know' Circe? The results of your ritual? Something else?)
I'd like to to know both the results of the ritual and how her talk with Circe was.

God damn though, Predatory Charisma.

And here we all thought it was a meme.

At least dealing with everyone should be much easier now.
>>
Alright. This is the moment, anons. Who's gonna write that H-scene?
>>
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>>4038178
Hopefully somebody with a penchant for ridiculous similes.
And molluscs.

Also
>embrace the Liliesviel route
>get skill that potentially opens up the harem route
Where are you now, naysayers?
>>
>>4038182
>Where are you now, naysayers?
You got me.
>>
>>4038161
>[ ] Meditate on your bodily condition. Try to determine whether you can feel any change due to the ritual.
>>
>finally got the charisma upgrade
A surprise to be sure
But a welcome one.

I can't wait to put it to the test on...
Well just about everyone.
>>
>>4038297
>starts off as Charisma: C
>jumps to probably B against females
Alberich can effectively rule over a kingdom IF it's an amazon wonderland.
>>
>>4038313
He'd be the best ruler ever if it was instead a loli wonderland.

Grail wish: discovered.
>>
>>4038463
The wish of Pride, REGNUM IUSTUS, has been abandoned.
The wish of Lust has been discovered through copulation:
BOOGIE WONDERLAND: Lolis obtained through charisma, pelvic pressure without upper bound
>>
We must determine our limits.
What's the limit on age?
Logic would dictate Arturia/Ayaka
Thankfully, those two look the oldest of all our companions except the maids.

Truvi is unlikely to apply, but things would be funny if she did.

I should probably vote, while I'm at it.
>>4038168
I'll support this if we can do both.
>>
>>4038485
>What's the limit on age?
It's a limit on appearance. For now I assume it only exerts its greatest power on anyone in A-Tier and S-Tier.
>>
>>4038488
I'd argue that B-tier would be the limit.
It should definitely apply to Ayaka at least.
>>
>>4038313
It's funny, our next interaction with Adelheid should be very fun
Especially if it ranks up to an A equivalent when we speak with her.
It would make us her equal in Charisma.

I must wonder how well it will work on Circe too, maybe we can start getting our relationship back to a good place.
...or how it will work on Arturia.

I kind of want to get the chance to bully her original personality still in a dream or something.
Especially if Alter learns to like us.

Wait shit, we have a Servant link with her now. She's going to be viewing our history from the dream cycle.
I wonder if both of the Arturia get to watch them.

I sort of want to see how it works on Arturia first.
I gotta be honest.
>>
Big news, folks!
Now that we've reached another milestone in terms of time passed in quest, I've completed the next version of the Fate/Awakening Mirror PDF! Now with better formatting, minor edits to a number of scenes, and a table of contents! Take a look.
>>
>>4038597
Minor edits like Liliesviel not asking us for Circe like a little girl asking a child?
>>
>>4038602
Yes. Like that.
If you see any more mistakes of that kind that made it into the PDF, or have any other suggetions at all, please let me know. I really need an editor, but in lieu of getting one I'm relying on you, my beloved readers, to look this thing over as I produce it.
>>
>>4038161
>predatory charisma became a thing
I regret voting against this with every fiber of my body
>[ ] Rouse Liliesviel, to discuss a matter from last night. (Circe)
>>
>>4038607
As you should.
Now Alberich can actually hope to deal with this insane harem.
>>
Oh! There's something else that I meant to post with last night's update, but by the time I got it finished, it had gotten so late that I quite forgot about it. Here's a new piece of Fate/Awakening Mirror BGM for you all:
Love theme of Alberich and Liliesviel
https://youtu.be/n89hqZywVgk
>>
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>>4038161
>we fucked the loli
Horribly-written h-scene when?
>>
>>4038678
As I recall there were a number of volunteers to write one the last time the topic came up in the thread, so I'm sure our Takeuchi will appear at some point.
For my part, I tried to handle the subject as tastefully as possible while still communicating the essential details of Alberich's lecherous thoughts.
>>
Ravioli Ravioli do not lewd the magi loli
>>
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>>4038759
Little late for that.

Somewhere out there in a parallel universe, Yumigawa summoned Brynhildr.
>>
>>4038496
Probably more like a range, where it's still D with men, C with women, and more effective the younger they look.

>>4038686
>a number of volunteers
Shame we don't have ID-Lock anymore. He wanted to do one I think. Overgrowth was lucky getting an H-scene so quick after it happened in the quest.

>>4038759
Where were you last thread?
>>
>>4038789
If it were still D with men, would it not be ranked D+ or D++?

Oh god.
How does it interact with traps? Quick let's test it out on Tsubaki.
>>
>>4038666
You should have stopped with Akeldama.
>>
>>4038828
You seem upset, plebian.
>>
>>4038828
>>4038832
A fun thought.
What if this is the guy who screeched back in the times of Gulag come to haunt us?
>>
>>4038828
Great! I always love getting this kind of supportive fanmail. Thanks!
>>
>>4038843
I mean, sub-50IQ iPhone posters like him don't get to have opinions anyway.

We're better off without dregs like him.
>>
>>4038832
Couldn't be. It's already been more than ten minutes since your reply and he hasn't come back to argue further.
>>
>>4038858
Ah! Meant to reply to >>4038838.
>>
>>4038828
Why should he?
Obviously you're not mad about the loli thing, the 2 main waifus in Akeldama were lolis as well.
What's your beef?
>>
>>4038858
I wonder why they felt the need to pop in and whinge like a child when it's pretty faithful to how the source material of the quest worked (minus the ftb) and there are plenty quests with explicit smut and degeneracy he could scream into the wind at.

Like Fuck Quest or whatever.

There's always one paint drinking retard who complains whenever a sex scene occurs.
Without fail.
>>
>>4038863
Anon, it's obviously because you can write descriptive and visceral depictions of violence, torture, death, child murder and suffering.

But sex is icky.
>>
>>4038867
Sorry to be an idiot, but... ftb?
Also, Fuck Quest apparently ended recently so it could be that there's an overflow of people angry about lechery who are looking for new targets.
Oh, wait. Fade-to-black.
>>
>>4038867
>source material
I'm willing to bet that anon's either ignorant of Fate or is an FGO secondary newfag. The fuck is that /co/ reaction image?
>>
>>4038872
I don't quite understand how you can get mad about implications. There's no smut content in scenes like this.

These are probably the same people who sing the praises of George R R Martin who is happy vividly depicting a 13 year old girl getting raped by a not!mongol.
Or going into great detail about how bad her diarrhoea is.
GRRM is a hack and his setting is garbage.

But I'm getting distracted.

Maybe he's just the last remaining Circefag trying to win a war that is already ended.
>>
>>4038889
Well, you know. People get mad and/or uncomfortable about Lolita too, and in terms of prose Nabokov is my idol. If I can evoke even a shadow of the kind of emotion his work produces, I really do take that as a compliment.
Although, of course, I do still want every one of my readers to be happy and enjoy the quest.
>>
So, how awkward is the group date going to be now?

I wonder how much Circe despises Lily.

Also, we should probably decide what to do with Yumigawa.
We could have Lily transfer his soul into a stuffed toy, now I am thinking about things.
>>
I'd like to do an update tonight, but we're currently tied. Do we have any of you folks who catch up with the thread in the PST evening coming in with new votes, or will someone have to change theirs?
>>
>>4039307
Can't you just do both? If not, just roll for a tiebreaker. Don't let it slow the updates if you can avoid it. To me they're not mutually exclusive.
>>
>>4039338
One of the tied votes is for doing both.
That said, the order you do things in really is significant.
I don't know. I guess if we go another hour with no more votes I'll count your vote together with the two votes for both as three votes for "meditate on your condition, then wake up Liliesviel to discuss the ritual."
>>
>>4038161
>[ ] Meditate on your bodily condition. Try to determine whether you can feel any change due to the ritual.

>>4038897
>in terms of prose Nabokov is my idol
Well that explains a lot. It seems our tastes diverge greatly, unfortunately.

For context, looking back I would have preferred it if we played as Matsuda and had adult Penthesilea as our servant/autistic training partner.
>>
>>4039360
>It seems our tastes diverge greatly, unfortunately.
You don't like florid language, I take it?
>>
>>4039364
Setting aside my preferences in female body-types, I'm more of a Dostoevsky guy personally.
>>
>>4039370
>female body-types
I mean, Nabokov isn't necessarily Humbert Humbert.
For the record, when I say that Nabokov is my literary idol, I'm referring to his phenomenal ability to create imagery and portray emotional depth. I've honestly never read anyone who uses the english language as artfully.
>>
>>4039360
>looking back I would have preferred it if we played as Matsuda and had adult Penthesilea as our servant/autistic training partner
we should have picked keiseki and summoned ushiwakamaru as our servant
>>
>>4039407
I think Moriarty would have gotten along splendidly with Keiseki, although using him without the Shinjuku phantom-fusion shenanigans might have been too big a hurdle to clear sadly.
>>
>>4039360
>our tastes diverge greatly
Also, I believe I've said this before, but just to make things clear one more time, I'm not a hardcore lolicon myself.
Although this quest has developed in a rather loli-focused direction, that's the result of the choices you've made along the way. There were alternative routes available and Alberich's aesthetics definitely could've developed differently.
>>
>>4039407
Oh, man. Writing Keiseki as the protagonist would've been a ton of fun. I'm glad at least one of you likes him even though he got no love during the initial vote and had a pretty short appearance in the quest.
>>
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>>4039436
>>
>>4039415
Who else...
What about Chen Gong?
>>4039439
Childhood is picking Yumigawa so you can stand above everyone else.
Adulthood is picking Keiseki so society can get what it fucking deserves.
>>
>>4039452
>What about Chen Gong?
Rider Lu Bu would be far more interesting.
Lu Bu would be pretty top tier if he wasn't stuck as Berserker.

He'd also betray everyone.
>>
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>>4039445
What? What are you trying to say with that expression, huh? If you've got something to say, say it! Don't just stand there and smirk at me!
>>
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>>4039457
>>
>>4039452
>so society can get what it fucking deserves.
That tagline's gonna be floating around for a while huh?
But I agree. Keiseki would be a great protagonist. Probably 2nd choice after Yumi/Alberich.
For his servant someone with a JK feeling or a heavy tsun girl would be good. Suzuka Gozen? Mordred? What ideas do you all have for a servant to bicker with as a middle aged guy?
>>
>>4039749
>You woke up at the office after being forced to sleep there by the ridiculously late overtime, worked all day, and wound up going to sleep in a sleeping bag under your desk again. You took four breaks today: one for each meal, and one to go to a public bath and wash off the grime. None of these was over 45 minutes. You haven't seen your apartment in 3 weeks, and dream of the day you can have a weekend off. It wouldn't surprising if you'd died in your sleep of overwork...
What he needs is Caster Gilgamesh, a man who can appreciate the soul-crushing drudgery of managerial positions.
>>
>[Deleted]
Second thoughts, huh?
>>
>>4039919
Huh?
>>
>>4039921
A 1-post-by-this-ID anon posted something along the lines of "Don't worry, we all know this quest is an elaborate scheme in which we pretend to be attracted to lolis to spite some guy from a year ago" and then deleted it.
Since an hour went by and no edited version was reposted, I thought I'd poke fun.
>>
>>4039749
>Mordred?
Interesting. Not one of the Servant's I'd originally considered for the protagonist to summon, but she actually would've had a dynamic similar enough to a more heroine-type version of that between Keiseki and Rider that it could totally have worked.
>>
Well, since we're still tied (now 2-2-2) and it's quite late on a day when I had a lot of work, I'm going to bed. In the mean time, I'd like it if you folks could work out a general day plan for what you'd like to accomplish on the 22nd. I'd usually have a choice like this while Alberich is in the shower or something along those lines, but since the next update will presumably be either a conversation with Liliesviel or a meditation trance sequence I'm posting this as a freeform prompt.

>[ ] What do you want to do today? (Write in your goals for the day and how you hope to pursue them, now that you have a morning with no immediately pressing future events weighing on your mind).
>>
>>4038161
>[ ] Meditate on your bodily condition. Try to determine whether you can feel any change due to the ritual.

I don't trust myself to write out a coherent plan this late.
>>
>>4039931
First things first, we have to talk to Adelheid and see what she got from the diaries. Spend some quality time with Circe and make our magic better, maybe get some ideas from her about the applications of Vaisset's work; also, I personally want to bring up this line with her:
>There is a disagreement among magi whether this conceptual nature gave them greater facility with magic and power over the world, or their great facility with magic enabled them to maintain a conceptual nature.
Also, ask her about new fighting gloves. And flex Predatory Charisma.

After that take a break, and then spar with Adelheid after lunch if the gloves are done by then. If they aren't, talk to Tsubaki and find out what her NPs do.

Later, send a message to Shirou telling him Saber was "dealt with". Let him imagine what that could mean.

After that, talk to Lily about the Yumigawa Question.
>>
>>4039967
>we have to talk to Adelheid
Fair enough. Seeing how Predatory Charisma works on somebody with A Rank Charisma is something I want to see as well.
>Circe
Well she's probably a decent person to ask. We still have to introduce her to Tsubaki though, so for the fighting gloves, why not have the two collaborate?
Also lets us flex on two girls at once and find out what Tsubaki's NPs do at the same time.
Or neck snaps ensue.

>spar with Adelheid
Why only Adelheid? We could do group combat with Arturia too.

>send a message to Shirou
Like an actual physical message?
Do you want to teleport mail to him with Circe?
>"Don't worry about the Excalibur bro, I got things under control. Saber is dealt with, still not a mango btw."

>the Yumigawa question
Now now, I'm sure that's something we can let Tsubaki, Ayaka and Circe help decide on too.
>>
>>4039984
>We could do group combat with Arturia too.
Against someone with Mind's Eye (False): B and someone else with Instinct: B I don't feel confident.
>Do you want to teleport mail to him with Circe?
It's an ostentatious enough use of Tροψα that I approve completely.
>>
>>4040004
I think having Circe do such menial tasks is hilarious.
Bonus points if we scry and drop the letter right in front of Shirou.

Also, should we tell him about Assassin?

Also we should probably deal with Harris soon.
I just want him dead already.
He's annoying on multiple levels.
>>
>>4040025
>Also, should we tell him about Assassin?
Would it really make a difference if we did? Circe and Odin can't get a lock on him, so Shirou definitely won't.
>>
>>4040064
>Circe and Odin can't
>but Harris can
God I loathe his character.
>>
>>4040065
I'm telling you, Harris was Odin the whole time. It explains everything.
>>
>>4038161
>[ ] Meditate on your bodily condition. Try to determine whether you can feel any change due to the ritual.
>>4039931
Speak with Circe and Adelheid, work on Vaissets notes, experiment more with summoning and HGS as a whole.
>>4039967
>sending a message to shirou
But why?
>>
>>4040076
>But why?
Because I want to watch him squirm.
>>
>>4040077
I'm looking forward to the shock of him seeing saber alter in person. Let's not ruin that.
>>
>>4040082
We could always show up in person to say hello.
>>
>>4040082
But squirm!
>>
>>4040065
Anon. What are you talking about? Harris didn't get any more information than Circe did, and only after you heard it from her. As for Odin, do you really trust him that much? I confess I'm surprised.

>>4040077
>>4040082
A debate for the ages. Two worthy opinions, both wanting to mess around with Shirou, yet fundamentally incompatible.
>>
>>4039967
+1 would like to try and fit meditation somewhere between gloves and spar though
>>4040206
>As for Odin, do you really trust him that much? I confess I'm surprised.
yes, he seems like a cool dude, and I think we could be making use of his abilities more than we do
>>4040082
I'm pretty sure he kinda already knows about alter because of the deadly death beam of death from the previous night
>>
>>4040219
>I think we could be making use of his abilities more than he does
ftfy
>>
>>4040089
To me it just seems weird.

Dear Shirou and co.,
We have altered Saber.
Regards,
Alberich and co.
P.S. we put in her a maid outfit
>>
>>4040250
Lean into the weird.
Have Futodoki polymorph into a bipedal cat footman in a waistcoat and deliver the message formally.
Like that one ghibli movie.
>>
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>>4040256
Have Futodoki morph into pic related but male and deliver the message.
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>>4040237
that as well
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>>4040259
I was more thinking this, but in his color scheme.
And cat-sized, not human-sized.
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This idea sounds stupid.
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>>4040259
>>4040271
Fie on both of you! If Futodoki ever takes on a bipedal form, it'll be in classic anime "human with cat ears and tail" style. Beyond that, I won't spoil it.
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>>4040277
Hmm. I wonder. Could Futodoki be empowered by magical items made by Circe or Tsubaki?
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>>4040250
To the desk of Emiya Shirou, survivor of the Fifth Holy Grail War.

My dear Emiya Shirou,
I hope that this letter finds you in the pink of health, although a bookmaker would give you rather poor odds in the coming days.

I think I have at least given you a better chance by defeating that elfin Saber who was summoned before myself. When last we spoke of her, you mentioned that she had no weak point to exploit; my investigations into the matter have disproved that particular statement. Suffice it to say that Saber has been dealt with -- you would be aware of that if you noticed the fireworks two days ago.

Your more immediate concern should be Assassin, whose presence I noticed near your house. I suspect that he may involve you in his designs to foil the objective of the Holy Grail War, so I advise you: "venienti occurrite morbo".

I remain,
Alberich.
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>>4040290
If by "be empowered by" you mean "use" then sure. Item creation creates mystic codes, after all, and some of those can be used even without magic circuits; most can be used by anyone with a little bit of magical aptitude, see Shirou's use of the Azoth Sword in the Fate route. Futodoki definitely has magical aptitude, he's proven that much; even if yokai magic does differ quite a bit from the human kind.
>>
Perhaps, then, the better thing to do with your excess energy so early in the morning is direct your attention back to last night's events. You were largely concentrated on your romantic passions during the act, and as such didn't observe the magical effects of the ritual taking place, aside from a certain fluctuation of the light of Liliesviel's crown in time with the pace of her breathing. Now, in the tranquil atmosphere of dawn, you'll no doubt find it easier to detect what change the second ritual has wrought within you. So deciding, you lean back against the headboard, close your eyes, and turn your focus inward. You observe the flow of the magic in your circuits, and the form that Ayaka's energy takes to create your imitation Od, but in neither detect a change. The link, then, is perhaps deeper within you, some property applied to the soul directly.

You plunge further within yourself and, as you do so, begin to experience a repetition of the sensory diminution you felt during your meditation of the eighteenth. The birdsong outside becomes faint and hazy, then vanishes wholly from your ears; the smell, and sensation, of the bed below you and sheets around your lap fades and vanishes; even the hard surface of the wood behind your head seems to disappear, until you're left floating in a meditative void, a self-made sensory deprivation of consciousness cut off from the outer nerves. At this point, things begin to grow more clear. You begin to see the link, a connection to another identity indelibly placed upon your soul. You draw closer still, seeking to scrutinize this foreign mind, and-

Sense returns. Once more, you find yourself in a place shaped of your inner void: the grey stone chapel, with its austere furnishings, cyclopean masonry, and four stained-glass windows high above, all depicting scenes of the messiah's prophesied triumph over earthly powers, seated upon a throne of bare wood with kings and wild beasts alike bowing before the heavenly Son. Your attention doesn't remain on the windows for long, however, for you're called away from this observation of your surroundings by a voice not wholly unexpected, emanating from the pulpit: Judas, again in the priestly garb he wore as "Cid Ajisartous".

"Ah, Alberich!" he calls jovially, smiling with an almost fatherly warmth. "Foremost of my 'children'. How wonderful it is to see you, my son. I must confess that it is a surprise, as well; I'd not expected to meet you again, once you were satisfied of your identity and origins. To what do I owe this pleasure?"

>[ ] Tell him you came by mistake, and were attempting to meditate on another aspect of yourself when you found yourself here.

>[ ] Return the question. You didn't come here intentionally, so it must have been him who drew you to his chamber in your spirit.

>[ ] Tell him that you're investigating the effects of a certain ritual on your soul, and thought that as a resident he might be of help.

>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)
>>
Super short morning update, since I had a bit of spare time this morning and didn't get you folks anything last night.
I intend to update tonight as well, though, don't think this is all I'm writing for the day.
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>>4040352
>[ ] Tell him you came by mistake, and were attempting to meditate on another aspect of yourself when you found yourself here.
>[ ] Explain that you were investigating the results of a certain ritual on your soul, and ask him if, being a resident, he might be of help.
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>>4040364
>results
effects
Goddamnit.
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>>4040352
>[ ] Tell him that you're investigating the effects of a certain ritual on your soul, and thought that as a resident he might be of help.
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>>4040364
Support.
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>>4040364
This works.
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>>4040352
>[ ] Return the question. You didn't come here intentionally, so it must have been him who drew you to his chamber in your spirit.
Got pulled back into the Judas room huh? Wonder what he wants.
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>>4040640
Probably to scold us about premarital sex.
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>>4040352
>[ ] Tell him that you're investigating the effects of a certain ritual on your soul, and thought that as a resident he might be of help.
Nice to see you again dad!
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>>4040640
>>4041060
Remember, he put in a hypnotic trigger to pull us into the room whenever we sought him out. That other mind we felt was probably Judas, not Lily.
>>
"My apologies for the disappointment, 'father', but I seem to have arrived here by mistake," you explain. "I was meditating on the state of my soul, investigating the effects of a certain ritual, when I found myself here. The effects of your hypnotic trigger, I suppose, but I wonder why it activated..." You trail off, considering the subject. Perhaps the separate identity you saw, which you had thought to be a connection to Liliesviel, was actually the fragment of Judas that dwells within you, and your attempt at investigating it was taken as an attempt to reach him. Still, now that you are here, you suppose that you might be able to glean some useful information from Judas. "Tell me," you say contemplatively, "as one with an internal perspective regarding my soul, have you been able to observe such magical effects as they're triggered?"

The priest smiles, giving you an infuriating look of restrained mirth only worsened by the tone of his reply. "Tut tut," he says in mock disapproval. "Do you find your beloved so untrustworthy, that you must investigate what sort of magic she performed now, while she remains asleep? After all your romantic posturing, I would have expected greater faith in your love from you."

"Faith, hah!" you scoff, striding irritably up to the pulpit to address Judas more directly. "You know perfectly well that isn't my reason; or if you don't, you're more of an idiot than you've any right to be!" You take a deep breath, steadying yourself, and take a half step back from the uncomfortable closeness to which you've approached your 'father'. Calming, you continue in a more conversational tone, "I'm certain of Liliesviel's feelings and mine, and they've nothing to do with my point of concern here; after an attempt at a ritual of this magnitude, and particularly one so similar to a ritual already failed, it's only sensible to make an effort to verify its success."

"I wonder why that could be," Judas muses, half to himself with hands folded and eyes looking past you, as if he ponders the subject alone. "Just why are you so concerned with obtaining the Third Sorcery?"

"Why shouldn't I be concerned over something necessary to extend my life past a few weeks?" You shoot back, growing irritable once again. "The matter certainly seems clear enough to me."

"Indeed," he replies, seemingly unmoved by your statements. "Yet I return to my question. Why, then, are you so attached to survival? Have you not just this night come into possession of that for which the longing drove you forward? Have you not accomplished your sole tangible goal in this world, by consummating your love for that girl? Perhaps you ought to savor this moment to the full and die happy in the completion of your aspirations, lest the future sour the happiness you've found."
>>
"You think to suggest that I die? I can hardly believe it," you reply, as stunned as you claim. "You, who went to such pains to bring me into this world, and spoke so highly of the potential I have to change it? You know suggest I die over the accomplishment of love? Are you entirely mad?"

"My wits are all about me, Alberich," the priest replies calmly. "You may find my statements bizarre, but please do not take them for the ravings of a lunatic. When we last spoke, I did indeed tell you of the hopes I had for you, and of the freedom I gave you to choose your own path in life. Since then, however, you have shown no signs of choosing any sort of path; the whole of your energies are devoted either to the women around you or to survival. If it is romance alone that spurs you on, then, I tell you to die while in the height of your romantic joy, for you will not find another moment to equal this." Upon the conclusion of this statement, Judas pauses for a few moments, noting your rage-filled expression with cheer before appending, "Unless, of course, you have found some greater cause to pursue after the Holy Grail War, giving meaning to your existence."

>[ ] Brush the question off. Four days isn't enough time to find a purpose in life, and until the War is over you'll be focused on surviving long enough to find that purpose.

>[ ] Turn the question around, and ask Judas what he'd do in your position. Apropos, considering the fact that so long as you remain living he does as well, after a fashion.

>[ ] You haven't found a purpose yet, but now that Judas raises the subject, it does occur to you that you have the ideal context in which to consider the matter here. Contemplate what it is you want to do after the Holy Grail War until you have an answer for Judas.

>[ ] Tell Judas that to live with those you care for is something of a purpose in itself, and although you'll seek higher goals in the future, you're content for the moment to protect your safety and that of those around you.

>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)
>>
Here's another short update with a conversation choice for you folks. I'm hoping that if I keep breaking these up into smaller chunks like this I'll be able to get the update frequency back up higher than it's been. Let's see how it goes.
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>>4041710
>[ ] Say something else.
"Indeed, I have an ambition: to stand above humanity and to lead properly from that elevated station. My purpose is clear, then -- to take the world in my palm, to conquer all of mankind."
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>>4041735
Support
It's very much about time we realigned with our goal of world conquest.
Fuck off, dad.
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>>4041710
Excuse me if the second war you birthed me into has been occupying too much of my free time for your liking, father.
>>4041735
Also this
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>>4041798
I can't believe he's telling us to go die just because we had premarital sex.
Judas is obviously a salty Kikukofag.
What a jerk.
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>>4041803
>Kikuko
Speaking of whom, we're going to track her down to be Tsubaki's friend right?
Worst girls stick together.
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>>4041844
Operation Ogawara Waifu 3: Magic Mokkori ONEET
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>>4041856
We are never going to stop trying to pair these two together.
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>>4041876
In the distant future... Operation Ogawara Waifu 363950183: Ara! Ara! Ara!
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>>4041754
>>4041798
>>4041803
Judas is just being real with us.

If Ally is just in it for the loligagging it's not going to get better than this.
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>>4041942
>it's not going to get better than this
We'll see what the holy grail has to say about that!
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>>4041948
"You're on your own man, I just give you all the energy and you figure out how to use it"
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>>4041948
Well, of course he could devote his life to greater and greater heights of sexual pleasure but that's a completely different goal than romantic fulfillment. Judas is saying that if Alberich's primary goal is selfish romantic fulfillment he's never going to do better than fucking his first love for the first time, so he might as well off himself.
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>>4041958
Don't make me throw Sakura into you, grail.

>>4041959
He's still an asshole and I don't appreciate him living in our soul rent free like this.
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>>4041963
>He's still an asshole and I don't appreciate him living in our soul rent free like this.
Then why don't you get Matsuda on our side and have Circe take the pieces out? We can put his soul back together, chop the pieces up and organize a scavenger hunt to pick Masters for our next Grail War.
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>>4041965
We do still need to beat the shit out of Matsuda, true.
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>>4041963
What a terrible thing to say about your father.
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>>4041975
He's an asshole that keeps making his kids fight because he was too lazy to.
He fully intended to kill three of his kids too, it was only our mercy that saved two less interesting children.
No wonder Tsubaki wants to be a NEET, she's following father's example.
Lazy fake priest.
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>>4041948
>We'll see what the holy grail has to say about that!
What, Lily? Probably a corrupted honeymoon reference.
>>
Just to let you folks know, there'll be no morning update today and I haven't had time yet to read what you posted last night (just got up, headed to work now) but I'll be back this afternoon to see what you're thinking about in terms of your response to Judas.
Next arc: finding your purpose.
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>>4041959
Worth remembering that this is coming from a guy who killed himself right after achieving his big goal.
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>>4042077
He has a pretty dim outlook on life after the greatest high.
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>>4041982
Victory in the Grail War was never his concern, and if it was he wouldn't be giving Alberich advice about personal fulfillment that contradicts that aim. His goal has always been the realization of the legends that create and define heroic spirits and the stories of their existence. The legend of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ does not exist without the betrayal he suffered and the subsequent execution, just as the hypothetical legend of two fleeting magical constructs finding love with eachother in the midst of a war doesn't have the same impact without Alberich and Lilly fading away with the conclusion of their respective purposes. Otherwise it's not a tragic legend to enrapture the hearts of Man, but a series of events without any proper resolution of themes.

Alberich doesn't think in the same terms Judas does, and sees himself as an individual and not a character in a story, as I would imagine most heros do. As a result, he's not thinking about his life in terms of what will bring the greatest emotional catharsis, and instead he's focused on his dreams of reaching that position of ultimate superiority he believes he is worthy of be means of world domination through conquest of the Moonlit World. The thing is, Judas doesn't really care about the specifics of what Alberich does, just that it's meaningful to Alberich.

Honestly, I think my favorite thing about this quest will always be the way it elevates the character of Judas Iscariot, even beyond the Gnostic interpretation of the legend. This version ascribes to him a much more interesting reasoning than mere greed or obedience to God, and makes him into a cultivator of something integral to the human experience.

>>4042077
What is there left to do after you've fulfilled your greatest purpose and earned the ire of all?
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>>4041710
>[ ] Brush the question off. Four days isn't enough time to find a purpose in life, and until the War is over you'll be focused on surviving long enough to find that purpose.
I think it's just too soon to really know what we want.
Other than Lily's chubby thighs anyway.
And a smutbin for that h scene. Is nobody gonna write one?
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>>4042141
Why don't you write one? Don't tell me you can't write or aren't interested in doing it because that would just add to the authenticity.
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>>4041710
>>4041735
+1
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>>4041754
>>4041735
>>4041798
>>4042200
Looks like a solid majority for this write-in. What a surprise!
After all you'd said about his issue being directionless, I was prepared to write a story arc (or at least a few updates) around Alberich finding his goal.

>>4042115
Thanks, anon. I love seeing that you've read so much into Judas' thoughts and motivations, and I'm glad you've enjoyed my take on the character so well.
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>>4042618
To be fair
We had a purpose
We just lost sight of it and couldn't pursue it properly.
Even so, we've spent a lot of time gathering allies.

Shame Matsuda was such a bitch crybaby that ran away.
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>>4042618
Alberich has almost always had a goal, it's just that he's had to postpone it for Grail emergencies. It hasn't even been that long from his perspective. Really, taking a week off to deal with life or death calamities is hardly being directionless. I think the issue people had wasn't about not having goals but rather that our enemies and circumstances forced us into a reactive position.
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>>4042724
Yeah, I don't appreciate this shit from Judas at all.
It's kind of uncalled for.
"You haven't conquered the planet in 7 days so die.
Fuck off Judas.
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>>4042760
You know that's not what he was saying.
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>>4042760
It's a good thing that Judas wants Al to remember his goals beyond his present circumstances. I wish my dad had that kind of interest in where I was going.
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>>4042870
I know but we do have a goal and he knows it.
We just couldn't focus on it on account of being attached to a weakling mage while surrounded by enemies that he ducked out of fighting.
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>>4042886
Judas actually made a 500iq play and realized that family was the real prize of the Grail War all along. This allowed him to get the true ending at an unprecedented 1:11 time absolutely shattering the previous record in the category. Actually trying to win the grail war is an absolute braindead play and is no longer considered a viable strategy in the speedrunning community.
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>>4043118
It's worth playing Judas even with the risk of softlock when Vaisset doesn't allow you to use the Akeldama. Fucking RNG.
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>>4043481
Just buy Charisma: B at the start of the game if you're so worried about it. It's pretty good in Akeldama, though the speech check can be done right at the start of the game so you could just restart the game until you pass.
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>>4042115
I've gotta say anon, I kind of liked Judas after the reveal, but you make an excellent point for his character by putting it all so concisely.

From his point of view, he's not berating us so much as lighting a fire under us to ensure that we have a valuable existence. He doesn't care at all for the fact that Alberich hates him for what he's done and what he's said despite what Judas has given him, he's been completely devoted to our success from the moment of his summoning to the point of dying for us and sticking around to obi-wan us from beyond the grave as he can.

I don't care. Judas Is a good dad, If...unconventional In his methods. Alberich will never see It, but I quite like him.
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"Of course I have a cause to pursue," you reply, anger turning your voice into a contemptuous scoff. "My ambition! Have you already forgotten what I told Adelheid upon our first meeting, Judas, or was your omniscience in that Akeldama of yours more limited than I've been led to believe?" Not giving the apostle a chance to reply, you continue, "No matter. I'll repeat it for you. My desire is to seize that authority which is justified by superiority; to stand above all others in the Moonlit World of magi, and by establishing myself in that position to lead the leaderless, give order in place of chaos, and take all the world in hand to reverse the decline of humanity that led to my counterpart's lifeless existence. In short, to conquer all mankind!"

With this final dramatic proclamation, you allow yourself to be carried away somewhat, and sweep your right arm out in dramatic gesture which Judas' reaction gives you immediate cause to regret. Far from being moved by your speech, his expression seems to grow only more condescending and amused. Indeed, he lets out a low chuckle as he replies, "So, that desire to stand above all others remains, and forms your purpose beyond the War, does it? How curious, that you should retain the ambition after its cause has been removed. Were you not driven to pursue the ultimate growth of your power by a belief in your origin as a mundane human, and desire to escape that existence?"

"What of it if I was?" you answer curtly. "The sources of zeal can come and go, and not have its cause change with them. True enough that you've identified my initial motivation, but do you think I've less reason to pursue my ambition now? That one conscious of a superiority with which he was endowed at the moment of his creation should not seek to utilize that superiority and enhance it? I'd have expected you to know me better, living as you do within my spirit. You've said yourself that I was born to be a modern hero; or words to that effect, at least; and the greatest heroes have always been monarchs. What I'm looking for is only the fullest expression of my birthright."
>>
"Marvelous!" Judas exclaims, his thin smile breaking at last into a white grin, and he claps thrice with folded hands in emphasis. "Bravo, Alberich! To think you could so utterly reverse your premises, and still arrive at the same end! I am delighted." Then, in a voice that booms, rolls, and echoes through the chapel as if he addresses a congregation that fills the pews and standing room besides, Judas continues, "Simply think of it: a modern hero, waiting to step forth and unite mankind; to lead humanity out of the darkness, chaos, and waning magic of the Age of Man, and into a new golden age, an era unprecedented in history! You shall not be the tragically love-doomed hero I so recently took you for, but a legend on a far larger scale. I wonder: will Alberich be revered as a founding lord, first monarch of a new nation of all humanity, or reviled as a villain who sought to place all the free people of the world under his bootheel? Fate shall weave her skein, and in time we shall discover, but for the moment all remains shrouded in mystery."

"If you're finished with the theatrics, I've had all the condescension I care to hear from you, 'father'," you say, glaring at the man who seems determined to make a mockery of the life he gave you. "You may see my life as some ridiculous show drawn up for your amusement, but I'll thank you to do so privately. Now answer me, Judas, for there is some worth in my being here with you. Can you help me to discover the precise effects of last night's ritual, or should I find another means of investigating them?"

"Ah, yes," Judas says, unflappable as ever. "The ritual to bind you together with your lady love. Such a romantic gesture. Yes, I can see what it's done to you, and you needn't worry; the effect has been that which you desired. Though the Einzberns' stone construct turned you away at the moment of greatest intimacy, it seems that of flesh and blood is appropriately more yielding." Seeing the mounting impatience on your face, he prudently decides to put aside digressive language and address the central points at hand. "Your two souls have been linked together as one," he explains. "While one lives, so shall the other. When one dies, so shall the other. You shall experience good fortune and ill as one soul, with but a single fate; and yes, certain magics which do their work on the soul shall affect the two of you equally."

"Excellent," you say.

>[ ] "In that case, I have nothing more to say here. Goodbye." You've satisfied your concern, and don't care to spend any more time with this detestable creature. Return to consciousness.

>[ ] "Now that we've resolved that question, there was another matter I thought worth discussing with you." (Write in any questions you'd like to ask or topics you'd like to discuss with Judas.)

>[ ] Say something else (Write in)
>>
It's another short update this evening, but hey; at least it's earlier than I've been updating lately, right?
I'd like to write another (similarly short) update at around midnight once you folks have voted here, so I hope you're online!
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>>4043545
>[ ] "Now that we've resolved that question, there was another matter I thought worth discussing with you." (Write in any questions you'd like to ask or topics you'd like to discuss with Judas.)
"One more thing. If our souls are so closely connected, would my nature not 'spill over' into hers as it did into Yumigawa Rushorou?"
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>>4043545
>>4043564
This. Does this also mean that if we absorb another servant's skills that it would be transferred to Lily as well?
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>>4043564
Actually I'm more concerned about the Resonance granting Rushorou the same link that we share wit Lily.
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>>4043640
Pseudo-Servant Odysseus may yet come to be true...
>>
>absorbing excess energy of a servant while linked to the lesser Grail
Fate novice here, what repercussions could this have?
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>>4043545
>"While one lives, so shall the other. When one dies, so shall the other.
This is somewhat worrying, but it just means that we have to protect Lily with our lives. Obvious weakpoint against Assassin, and Odin if he doesn't actually require her energy as a servant in a specially created living body.
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>>4043545
Thank him for granting us existence and ask for his advice in the times to come.
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>>4043661
Can't say. I wouldn't expect it to be too bad, though, since we were were never stealing enough to foil Heaven's Feel.
>>4043671
>if he doesn't actually require her energy
Lily's already told us that she doesn't use any energy unless she uses a Command Spell, so we're pretty well fucked.
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>>4043682
I wouldn't expect Odin to attack Lily to harm us since he wants a straight fight, but it's still a slight concern if he gets desperate.
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>>4043683
i believe in odin. he wouldn't do us dirty like that
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>>4043545
I absolutely love this scene, it's one of a few cute moments that don't have a sinister undercurrent of manipulation or psychosis. Pretty ironic that it's coming from the chessmaster of Akeldama.

All this Judas is reminding me of something else I've always loved about this quest, how it characterizes the Servants. Seeing well made and interesting interpretations of characters like Blackbeard and Odysseus is a breath of fresh air from the chaotic mess of shotas and warframes you see in fgo nowadays.

>>4043564
+1 Fair question to ask, though, I believe you need to have a physical resemblance for resonance shenanigans, but it's Fate so I could be pulling that out of my ass.
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>>4043690
I don't think our memories stopped being transferred to Yumigawa when we stopped looking like him, which was pretty early in Akeldama.
>>
One thing I find interesting about Alberich, has he ever thought about how the average person would consider him a monster? His unnatural creation, his lack of regard for life beyond those e care about, etc.
I suppose that morality is formed by those you surround yourself by, and he isn't exactly surrounded by the most traditionally moral characters, but I still find it interesting.
>Judas: amoral
>Circe: self-centered villainess
>Adelhied: figuratively Hitler
>Ayaka: sacrifices life for power
>Korakuhime: eats humans
>Liliesveil: down to torture enemies for fun
Not a lot of positive influences there, to be sure. From a human perspective at least.
One thing I would've really enjoyed is an actual role model for Alberich, although I do enjoy his self-directed search for purpose as well.
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>>4043709
>Adelheid: figuratively Hitler
I see what you did there.
But yeah not a lot of role models to be seen in that list
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>>4043690
>cute moments that don't have a[n] undercurrent of psychosis
That's an oxymoron, anon.
I kid. Glad you enjoyed the scene, although I am a little confused. Is cute the word here? I was thinking of it as more 'father'-'son' bickering, but I guess that's cute from a certain point of view.
>>4043709
>has he ever thought about how the average person would consider him a monster?
To be honest, original Yumigawa had every chance of turning out like Patrick Bateman, so right from the beginning Alberich is looking at things with a pretty amoral view. At this point I'd say his thinking is probably along the lines of being above humanity, and thus impervious to their judgements.
>>
>>4043733
>being above humanity, and thus impervious to their judgements.
That's actually really what I was hoping for all along, although that's traditionally difficult for players to roleplay while voting. Understandably so.
>>
"Thought we've resolved that matter," you continue, "it begs a further question which I hope you'll be able to answer. If my soul and Liliesviel's are so closely connected, will my memories not spread into her mind, as in Yumigawa's case?" It's a sobering thought. Although this ritual may have been essential for the preservation of your life, the notion that suddenly occurs to you almost makes you reconsider. To see Liliesviel's mind overwritten by your own would be a heavy burden to bear indeed, however tantalizing the reward that prompted it.

"What an intriguing question," Judas muses. "No, I don't believe there is any chance of the occurrence you describe. You see, in a prerequisite of the function of memory resonance is a shared common memory base," he explains, taking on the tone of an educator. "Yumigawa Rushorou took on your memories for this reason, as well as the connection between your souls: you and he shared precisely the same identity and memories up until the onset of my Holy Grail War. As such, it was simplicity itself for his mind to integrate these memories into his life and create the delusional behavior you've observed. Liliesviel, however, shares none of your memories. Consequently, her mind is wholly unable to process foreign memories. By a similar token, she will remain unable to receive the powers you've gathered from Servants. Her existence would be simply unable to tolerate the incompatible power and attempted reshaping, leading to her death."

"Fascinating," you say. "I suppose that resolves two significant concerns, then." The effects of Liliesviel taking on your memories are obvious, but the thought of her gaining the ability of a Servant, and stepping out overconfidently into the middle of a battlefield, sends a shiver down your spine. Better to make sure that no such event could happen than to try to keep her safe when it does. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I believe I have all the information I could need from you regarding last night's ritual. Good morning."

So saying, you close your eyes to the world around you. When you open them once again, you're in bed, and all is just as you left it. Birds sing outside the window; the first rays of sun peek through to give the room wan illumination; beside you, Liliesviel remains undisturbed, deep in the land of dreams. Only one change informs you that time has passed during your meditation: you can now hear the sound of two people moving moving about the floors below. At a guess, considering the pattern of movement, you imagine that the early-rising duo is in fact Liliesviel's pair of maids, attempting to go about morning cleaning without making a sound. To their credit, they do a fairly good job, but of course it is quite difficult to escape the hearing of a Servant.
>>
>[ ] Rouse Liliesviel, to discuss last night's events.

>[ ] Go looking for Adelheid, to ensure she continues working to break the code in Vaisset's workshop.

>[ ] Track down Kōrakuhime. It's time you interrogated her about her Noble Phantasms once again.

>[ ] Go down to the basement and summon a second familiar with Heiligöffnungschwert.

>[ ] Do something else. (Write in)
>>
>>4043842
>[ ] Rouse Liliesviel, to discuss last night's events.
>>
>>4043842
>[ ] Rouse Liliesviel, to discuss last night's events
WAKE UP.
>>
>if one dies the other dies
Gee Alberich, how come Sweets lets you have two Masters?
Also Circe can't kill Lily now without killing us.
Hahaha.
>>
>>4043893
>Also Circe can't kill Lily now without killing us.
Yeah, but she doesn't know that yet.
>>
>>4043900
We clearly need to give Arturia a contingency to Excalibur anyone that causes our death regardless of who it is.
>>
>>4043842
>[ ] Rouse Liliesviel, to discuss last night's events.
>>
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Ok.
I'm not gonna lie, I was keeping my distance from the quest after everything that's happened regarding the romance bullshit and stuff.
My autistic ass couldn't help write in something with the dinner speech but otherwise, I was pretty checked out.
I still think Circelhied was robbed and I still hate Harem routes.
But!
>Predatory Charisma
This shit right here.
This is that premo supremo level shit and all the writing to go with it was fucking beautifully done!
I fucking can't stay mad at Sweets, the fucking absolute madlad!
>>
>>4044067
Circe + Adelheid IS A HAREM DAMN IT.

And besides, it never would've worked.
Lily is a common enemy now though.
A common enemy Circe can't just dispose of thanks to the soul link.

I'm glad things went this way and I used to be a supreme Circefag.
>>
>>4044067
Glad to have you back on board!
Out of curiosity, when you say "all the writing to go with it" do you mean Liliesviel's visit, or just the skill description?
>>
>>4044080
>2 Girls is a harem
A MAN HAS TWO HANDS ANON!
TWO HANDS FOR TWO WOMEN!
LOVED EQUALLY!
ANYTHING MORE IS A HAREM!

>And besides, it never would've worked.
That's cowards talk.
>Lily is a common enemy now though.
That's not how a healthy harem should work!
A proper harem isn't built on fear and loathing! It's about mutual respect and a desire to satisfy! It's not a competition for attention (One that in this cause Circe and Adelheid have thoroughly lost!) but a sisterhood!
Has no one here ever read Mecha Space Pirate Quest?

>>4044098
Both.
Maybe I'm just happy my son finally got his dick wet and the skill that comes with it is based as hell, but the whole thing has made me happy.
I haven't stopped smiling!
>>
>>4044112
>That's not how a healthy harem should work!
This is the opposite of healthy. Next time we talk to Judas I'm telling him our purpose is to conquer the world so we can build palaces in different countries and finally separate this dysfunctional clusterfuck of a family.
>>
>>4044112
>Has no one here ever read Mecha Space Pirate Quest?
Well, I haven't. You think these girls are going to wind up in a sisterhood?
>I haven't stopped smiling!
Glad to hear it, anon. I enjoyed writing the section quite a bit, and thought it came out pretty well, but to be honest I was worried there'd be some of you folks still getting too angry about Alberich's feelings for Liliesviel to enjoy it.
>>
>>4044080
You have to think about it in terms of geometry.

With a man and two women, you have a triangle where love and respect can flow from any point to any other point. When you add even one extra point to the shape, this equilibrium becomes immensely more difficult to maintain.
>>
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>>4044145
just draw diagonals bro
>>
>>4044152
That isn't architecturally sound.
>>
>>4044167
It's fine as long as you build a dome around it, put up some support beams and keep the points at right angles.
>>
>>4044127
>>4044128
>This is the opposite of healthy.
>You think these girls are going to wind up in a sisterhood?
That's kinda my point.
This isn't the setting for harem route.
These aren't the characters for it and this isn't the protagonist for it.

>But Circe and Adelheid wouldn't have been a "sisterhood" either.
They wouldn't need to be, they aren't a harem. It would help sure, but as we've seen at the end of the false war, while they would probably always be catty towards each other they were more than capable of splitting Alberich down the middle and be content to bully the other girls that would topple their already precarious position rather than threaten it by causing problems for Alberich by trying to bully each other.
With the emergence of Liliesviel that balance of power has not only been toppled but has been trampled on, overthrown and invalidated completely.
No matter how you look at it.
No matter what you say.
Liliesviel is THE GIRL!
She is the Queen that sits beside Alberich on the throne of love, and so there is no harem to be had!
It's not a King and his Queens, just a King and Queen, and some concubines.
I don't want to disrespect Circe and Adelheid by making them Albritech's side sluts, while queen Lily laughs on her throne, and that is the only real option at this point. On top of that, I honestly don't want to disrespect Lily by making him go after other girls when he's successfully smashed his dream waifu.
I'm happy that Alberich finally got his girl, way more than I thought I'd be thanks to Sweets writing ability and memes, but as a Circelheidfag and a man of good taste, I won't watch any of these waifus be disrespected like that.
Well, I will watch it, it's too spicy not to. But I'll be grumpy about it!
>>
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>>4044184
>Liliesviel is THE GIRL!
>as a Circelheidfag
>>
>>4044191
What can I say? Alberich has inferior taste, and there isn't much we can do about that this far in the game.
>>
>>4044191
Maybe we'll get another chance when Sweets sweeps the board in S3.
>>
>>4044184
>way more than I thought I'd be thanks to Sweets writing ability and memes
I know I'm repeating myself, but you really have no idea how happy I am to read this after all the anger and negativity about Alberich's love situation. I can't wipe the grin off my face. Thanks, anon. I'm really so glad that I was able to write it well enough for you to enjoy things in spite of them turning against your intentions.
>>
>>4044206
predicting all the waifus in part 3:
lorelei
altrouge
satsuki
len
francesca
wu zetian
otoko
>>
So, I can't help noticing how several of you folks haven't voted. Not interested in how Alberich begins his morning?
>>
>>4044291
Barring the invasion of a dozen rabid gacha addicts, I don't think the vote is going to change.
>>
>>4043842
>[ ] Go down to the basement and summon a second familiar with Heiligöffnungschwert.
Something fluffy.
>>
>>4044297
There's always hope. It's fun when you folks roll the sword gacha!

>>4044301
...speak of the devil! Hell of a coincidence, there!
>>
>>4044301
>something fluffy
>ID: owo
...huh.
>>
>>4043842
>[ ] Go down to the basement and summon a second familiar with Heiligöffnungschwert.

>>4044184
>These aren't the characters for it
Fair.
>this isn't the protagonist for it.
That just ain't so. Dude's got major roving eyes, and concubines are right up his PRIDE alley.
>Liliesviel is THE GIRL
You can say that again. Now where's that new portrait we're waiting for?

>>4044217
>lorelei
TOO OLD
>satsuki
>len
Don't exist in this timeline
>Francesca
NOW we're talking
>otoko
...Shirou's old boss?
>>
>>4044511
>That just ain't so. Dude's got major roving eyes, and concubines are right up his PRIDE alley
Concubines do not a good harem make famo.
If you want a bunch of side sluts on your dick to stroke your ego then that's one thing. That's easy, any protag with enough disregard for the women in his life could have that.
But when it comes to running and maintaining a proper harem Alberich has proven himself too autistic to for the job.
Too much Pride.
Not enough Compassion.
Too prone to pick favorites.
>>
>>4044584
>when it comes to running and maintaining a proper harem Alberich has proven himself too autistic to for the job.
But like. I've read your description of a proper harem. That's not what Alberich is about.
I think we kinda agree actually. King, queen, and concubines is totally the dynamic he'd go for. It's just, isn't that what a harem is? Like, traditionally?
I guess your problem with the situation is just the semantics?
>>
>>4044610
I just don't think managing multiple romances is a good use of Alberichs time IC, or for my time as a player. Not interesting to me at all.
>>
>>4044721
I think it would be interesting though, so whatever.
>>
>>4043842
>[ ] Rouse Liliesviel, to discuss last night's events.
>>4044773
Fair enough.
>>
>>4044610
>That's not what Alberich is about.
YES!
THAT'S MY POINT!
A harem route in this quest would be bad because in truth Alberich himself has no interest in having or maintaining a fucking harem!
He's simply not that type of guy and the girls in his life are too headstrong in one way or another to push him to make it work!
If we push him in that direction the best people would get is him offering crumbs to the other girls while Lilesviel feasts.

>I guess your problem with the situation is just the semantics?
In a way, I guess you can say that.
Maybe if I'd stop saying "proper" like an autist and say "satisfying" that would be better.
For me, it's about meeting an ideal about what a personally satisfying harem would be.
Look at it like this.
A harem, by definition, is two or more women being associated (normally romantically or sexually) with a man.
Alberich and Liliesviel being in love, with Alberich fucking chicks on the side would absolutely be a harem.
Hell, by definition, Circelheid would also be a "harem".
But if you were to present me with either of these endings as the harem route of your story or game or whathaveyou, I'd fucking smack you in the face for wasting my time.

Neither of these, to me, would be a satisfying harem because the point- isn't just having a bunch of girls at your beck and call like fucking dogs. It's about the complex interpersonal relationships between the characters involved. It's about the management and maintenance of the characters in question, about dealing with the inherent problems of having multiple, usually very different women be romantically involved with a man, and watching everyone involved grow into better stronger people for it.

If you are reading this description and scratching your head in confusion wondering what the fuck I'm talking about, thinking to yourself "This guy is crazy, most harem anime and shit aren't like that at all..." Then you know exactly why I hate most harems.

>>4044721
>I just don't think managing multiple romances is a good use of Alberichs time IC
And I'm sure Alberich would 100% agree.
This quest isn't the one harembros.
Unless of course, you are one of those plebs that are just greedy and want to collect women.
>>
>>4044812
Fuck off, mongrel dog.
We're having a harem.
This was already decided upon when it was only two girls.
Now stop typing in such an insufferable manner.
>>
>>4044812
A harem, traditionally, is a group of women that an eastern monarch keeps at his beck and call, in his palace. It's all about greed and pride.
I don't know what kind of mutually satisfying weird poly thing it is you're after (okay I do know because you just explained it, but I still don't know what it should be called), but that ain't a harem.
Now our guy Alberich just declared he wants to take over the world. So the way I see it this has one ending. Lily as queen, and every other heroine as a concubine. In the harem.
>>
>>4044845
To go on for a bit on the topic, there's generally 2 kinds of harems that I know of. The Turkish kind and the Chinese kind.
In a Turkish style harem the concubines are basically sex slaves. Kept totally out of the world and with no power. Here they tend to get sympathy for each other and develop some common feeling. Not too likely to see the sultan as anything but an oppressor. Obviously that's way out for Alberich.
In the Chinese imperial harem you get some fun though. There the concubines have more contact with the world and a healthy amount of power at court depending on the emperor's favor. So you get backbiting, competition, and all that good stuff between concubines. They tend to see the emperor in a better light too, cause he's where they get power from. I'm for this style of things. It's perfect for Alberich.
>>
>>4044845
>A harem, traditionally, is a group of women that an eastern monarch keeps at his beck and call, in his palace. It's all about greed and pride.
>I don't know what kind of mutually satisfying weird poly thing it is you're after, but that ain't a harem.
You know what. That's fair. Given that both the traditional and more modern definitions of harem misalign with what my ideal "harem" would be, I guess I can't really call it a harem at all.

>So the way I see it this has one ending. Lily as queen, and every other heroine as a concubine. In the harem.
I both agree and never expected anything else and have said so multiple times.
And that's why I hate it.

>>4044878
>In the Chinese imperial harem you get some fun though. There the concubines have more contact with the world and a healthy amount of power at court depending on the emperor's favor. So you get backbiting, competition, and all that good stuff between concubines. They tend to see the emperor in a better light too, cause he's where they get power from. I'm for this style of things. It's perfect for Alberich.
If you say so.
Again, I find no pleasure in watching my girls squabble while Liliesviel sits on her throne as queen, above it all.
But you guys do you.
>>
>>4044898
>I find no pleasure in watching my girls squabble while Liliesviel sits on her throne as queen
Sorry, anon. I'm glad you've at least enjoyed Alberich and Liliesviel's love on its own. I hope you won't end up being as unsatisfied with future developments as it seems you expect to.
>>
>>4044915
You're making it seem like the harem is set in stone, is it?
>>
>>4045216
God I hope so.
Alberich doesn't understand monogamy anyway.
>>
>>4045225
I'm not sure what makes you think that with such certainty. I haven't seen any indication of that in the quest itself.
>>
>>4045216
If so, that was a serious mistake on my part.
Nothing is set in stone. I just hope all of you folks enjoy the quest in the future, whatever ends up happening. It saddens me to read that anon expects events to go in a way he's sure he won't enjoy.
>>
>>4045295
I'd still enjoy the quest, I'd just avoid the IRL week-long segment of harem management if it came to that.
>>
Are we still planning to defeat Shirou before facing Odin, like we mentioned to Odin after he almost killed us?
>>
>>4045486
Yeah, it'd be a bad idea not to. We need a lot more power before we face Odin.
>>
>>4045486
Yeah we need to kidnap Rider.
>>
Tempting though it may be to let Liliesviel enjoy her slumber uninhibited, at the moment you'd rather discuss last night's events with her now that you've the clearer thinking that comes of rest and morning light. When she left you, as best you recall, Liliesviel was speaking of getting to know Circe; a few hours later, she'd suddenly decided to suggest to you the confirmation of your love in the most intimate way possible, spiritually as well as physically. What could she have discussed with Circe that might have led her to such a degree of resolution, when she had been so uncertain of your feelins following your confession? Or are you underestimating the willful volatility of Liliesviel's mind? Had she chosen to bind her soul to yours already in that moment last night when she breathed out her sorrow, resolving to smile and believe you? You'd like to know, and your curiosity this morning outweighs your consideration for Liliesviel's rest.

Thus resolved to awaken her, you look over at the sleeping girl and consider how best to do so. You know from experience with Kōrakuhime, after all, that to put an indelicate end to a maiden's sleep is an excellent way of attracting fury, and although Kōrakuhime's feelings on such trivialities can largely be dismissed, you'd rather not spoil your morning with Liliesviel over such a minor subject. Your beloved lies on motionless on her pillow, waves of ivory hair that hide the cushion completely fanning out below her. Below the chin, she's entirely hidden from view by blankets, but her face alone is beautiful enough that before last night you could have considered yourself happy never to see more of her than that. As you're beginning to lose yourself in sentimental admiration, however, you realize with some shock that the crown which remained firmly atop Liliesviel's head throughout your lovemaking is now absent. Is the heavenly garment able to be materialized and dismissed at will, then, like your own clothing? Perhaps she did away with the uncomfortable headwear after the ritual came to an end last night, though you seem to recall her falling asleep still wearing it.

No matter. After taking a few moments to determine your approach, you reach over and gently caress the cheek of the sleeping girl, reasoning that this ought to be intimate enough to awaken her while remaining gentle enough not to be unpleasant. To your surprise, though, it has quite the opposite effect. Your touch seems only to increase her comfort, for without waking she rolls over onto her side, to face you and rest her cheek on your hand. As she does so, Liliesviel lets out a soft sigh, and unintelligibly murmurs, "Alb'ri...op th... n'...ore..."
>>
Clearly, Liliesviel requires something a bit more stimulating to awaken. Seized with an impish affection aroused by her adorable reaction, you take her cheeks between your hands to lift her face up, bend down and, like the fairy-tale prince, seal her sleeping lips with a kiss. Breath cut off, her eyes fly open and she briefly struggles, startled and confused. After recognizing you and recalling her location, however, her demeanor changes entirely. You feel her small arms wrap around your back, and the two of you enjoy tasting one another for a long, languid moment.

Finally you part, and at that point realize, the sheets having fallen from Liliesviel's svelte body to expose the almost porcelain artistry of her form, that the whole of the heavenly garment, and not merely her crown, has vanished. Liliesviel realizes almost at the same moment, observing the lustful quality of your gaze, and lets out an embarrassed squeak, crossing her arms over her chest and blushing furiously! The rubies, you note, are gone from her midriff; not part of her anatomy after all, then.

"My," you say, raising an eyebrow as you address your lover in a tone of gentle humor, "you seem embarrassed, for someone who decided to sleep beside me without a stitch on."

"Decided?" she squeals, not yet over the shock. Her eyes, wandering around the room in search of her vanished clothing, finally alight on the blankets piled on her lap, and the embarrassed girl quickly draws them up to her shoulders before continuing to speak. "I fell asleep still wearing that dress, I'm certain! You'd tired me out too much to move a muscle by then, anyway," she adds with a pout.

"Well, I didn't take it off of you," you reply with a shrug. "How's it to have disappeared, then?"

At this Liliesviel seems to collect her thoughts, the blush fading from her cheeks, and then sighs in evident realization. "Stachel must have wanted to help Stengel with the morning work," she declares matter-of-factly. "This is why I don't like to wear that thing."

You regard Liliesviel and her incomprehensible statement for a few moments, contemplating whether or not it's worth investigating. Eventually, you decide against it. You recall, now, that Liliesviel had mentioned requiring Stachel's presence to wear the garment before. Presumably the mysterious connection goes both ways, and Stachel had to collect it before being able to attend to her own duties. Indeed, though the thought is embarrassing, it's possible that the maid was present with your and Liliesviel all through the night, hidden in a dark corner, her presence easily going unnoticed in your distracted state.

"I see," you reply at length. "That resolves the mystery of your disappearing clothing, then. It suited you beautifully, by the way. I can't imagine why you told my you didn't like its looks."
>>
"But it's so... revealing!" Liliesviel protests, cheeks coloring again at the memory of last night's events. "A young lady shouldn't show so much of her body; especially not in a ceremonial dress."

"I suppose you have a point," you concede, pretending an expression of deep contemplation. "Certainly I wouldn't want any other man to see you that way. In that case..." before finishing the sentence you reach out to wrap your arms around Liliesviel and pull her over onto your lap, so you can whisper in her ear, "just wear it for me, then."

"Al~be~rich!" Liliesviel protests, pushing against your chest in a futile attempt to escape your embrace. "Too close! You're too close!"

"Come now," you say, still holding her in your arms despite the girl's squirming. "Where's all this embarrassment coming from, after last night?"

"What I said last night took all my courage," she explains, quieting down as it becomes obvious that you intend to hold her until she explains. "You can't simply expect a maiden's modesty to disappear just because... she... ceases... to be one." These last words are delivered almost inaudibly, as it seems only Liliesviel's pride forces her to overcome the monumental embarrassment she feels at her own joke and finish the sentence. Eager to move on, she hastily continues, "Besides, at least then I was wearing something; and I haven't bathed since we slept! Oh Alberich, please let me clean myself and get dress before you look at me for another second!"

"Very well," you reply. "Go as you please." With that, you open your arms to allow Liliesviel to slide off of your lap and depart from the bed, although you relish the feeling of her skin against yours as she does so. When she gets to her feet, Liliesviel takes her concealing sheet with you, wrapping it around herself as an impromptu nightgown as she flees to the attached bathroom. A few moments after that you hear the shower come on, and you're left alone once more to contemplate what best to say to Liliesviel once she returns.

>[ ] As you'd originally intended, ask her first about how she's getting along with Circe.

>[ ] Change your mind, and ask Liliesviel about the effects of last night's ritual; a comparison of her answer with Judas' will tell you whether it worked wholly as intended.

>[ ] Say something else when she returns. (Write in)

>[ ] While Liliesviel showers, get up, dress, and head to another part of the manor for some other purpose. (Studying? Summoning? Discussing something with another housemate? Write in.)
>>
>>4044511
>Now where's that new portrait we're waiting for?
Good question.

>>4045500
Editanon? Still planning on getting it finished, or am I correct in thinking after your post about lost free time that you're putting the idea on indefinite hiatus?
>>
>>4045550
>[ ] While Liliesviel showers, get up, dress, and head to another part of the manor for some other purpose. (Studying? Summoning? Discussing something with another housemate? Write in.)
Get on with the day. Go to Adelheid and check in on her progress with the diaries.
>>
>>4045552
I'll have to see if I can make time for it
Hopefully I'll get it done before Coronavirus ends civilization as we know it.
>>4045550
>[ ] As you'd originally intended, ask her first about how she's getting along with Circe.
>>
>>4045550
>>4045558
This
>>
Ah, it's so nice to be able to write romantic scenes again without the whole 'manipulative liar' thing hanging over your head.
>>
>>4045560
>Coronavirus ends civilization as we know it
Eh. It's the next Swine Flu, or Bird Flu, or MRSA, or SARS. We got all freaked out about those being world-destroying epidemics, then surprise surprise, we got them under control and nobody thinks about them any more. At this point I'm pretty confident in the WHO.
>>
>>4038666
Seeing how little anyone cares about your shitty loli romance theme is laughable. Nobody fucking wanted this and your players fought against it until you bitched and moaned about how you intended this quest to go this way and that until the PLAYERS are fucking railroaded into shitty scenarios the players don’t enjoy, and then you do all over again.
>>
>>4046094
You're really reaching on that one. This has already been discussed exhaustively, and further horsebeating is pointless. You're going to have to find another cudgel to beat Sweets with if you want to harvest more shitstorms.
>>
>>4045550
>[ ] As you'd originally intended, ask her first about how she's getting along with Circe.
>>
>>4046094
>you bitched and moaned about how you intended this quest to go this way and that
Laughably false.
Sorry you didn't get what you wanted out of the quest, anon. Better luck next time.
>>
>>4038666
Wonder why it's this post that both these dickheads picked to take offense at. They hate sinatra or what?
>>4046094
Dickhead. Read the thread and tell me if you see a single motherfucker who's actually a player and isn't happy about how things went with Lily. You got nobody on your side.
>>
>>4046094
As a master baiter.
I gotta say
You suck at rabble rousing.
You just look bad.
>>
Where is everybody?
>>
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>>4046644
>>
So nobody's got an idea why the loli haters both replied to the song post? You'd think they'd complain about the actual posts.
>>
>>4045550
>[ ] As you'd originally intended, ask her first about how she's getting along with Circe.
>>
>>4046679
>So nobody's got an idea why the loli haters both replied to the song post?
How would I know what other people are thinking, anon? How does anyone really know?
Our understanding of others must necessarily be incomplete and imperfect, for perfect knowledge would require us to think like them. In that case, would our opinions not be mere guesses? A limited deduction formed with the scant information 4chan affords us. The revelations which arise from two posts are so insubstantial that we cannot even determine if they were made by different anons or the same anon with a dynamic IP, let alone their grudges or lack thereof against Frank Sinatra and pedophilia.

Our only recourse is in the unholy trips of Satan, which reveal the hidden truth: the anons are both dyed-in-the-wool Christians who hold the prince of darkness in disdain. In one fell swoop we have explained their hatred of Satan, Sinatra and loli.
>>
>>4046702
Well damn. When it comes to speculation I know I ain't gonna outdo that.
So here's another topic. Anybody who knows more about the Fate lore than I do have any guesses who that Third Marshall guy was? The way his name stayed hidden sticks out. I'm thinking he's an important character in S3.
>>
Good morning, folks.
Just wanted to let you all know that I've finally got a whole day off work today, so I plan on spending the day writing. I should have the next update done in a few hours, and I'd like to get at least three finished over the course of the day.
So, stay online and keep what you'd like to do today in mind so you can vote quickly, and hopefully we can have a nice, fast-moving session!
>>
>>4045550
>[ ] As you'd originally intended, ask her first about how she's getting along with Circe.
Might as well
>>
>>4047236
Thank you for not lurking.
>>
As you lie there, listening absently to the mingled sounds of birdsong and Liliesviel's shower, basking in the relaxation of a peaceful dawn, you hear the strains of a melody filter through bathroom door. You don't recognize it, and the words are unintelligible, so you can't say what it is that Liliesviel is singing; only that it's high, sweet, and joyful: a song to tell you beyond any doubt that she, just as much as you, has had a great burden of sorrow and apprehension lifted from her spirit by the events of last night. Your smile, already resting on your lips, widens at the realization.

From these thoughts of grand and sweeping emotion, however, your mind turns inexorably to minutia. In this case, you can't help wondering just how it is that Liliesviel intends to dress herself. This isn't her bedroom, after all, and she surely didn't bring a change of clothing with her when she arrived at your door last night. Your idle imagination, pondering on the topic, begins to spin a pleasing image of a flustered Liliesviel, having neglected to consider her clothing in her flight to the restroom, rushing out into the hall clad in only a towel, with face flushed, hair damp and steaming, and tiny droplets of water still adorning her slender calves... You're snapped out of this reverie by a knock at the door. To judge from the magical presence outside, greater than a human's yet inferior to a Servant's, it's one of Liliesviel's maids.

"Enter," you call, not troubling yourself to rise.

Sure enough, the door swings open to reveal Stengel, holding a bundle of clothing in one hand. That resolves the question of Liliesviel'd dressing herself, then; the girl must have summoned her maid to bring her a dress by some magical signal inaudible to those not its target. Never one to ignore the appropriate protocols, Stengel gives you a respectful, if lopsided, curtsy using her empty hand before stepping over the threshold. If she's surprised by either Liliesviel's presence in your bedroom nor your own state of undress, she does an excellent job of not showing it. But then, considering what Liliesviel told you last night about learning how to make love from her maid, she was probably aware beforehand of Liliesviel's intent to visit you.

"Good morning, Stengel," you say, you words stopping her as she walks toward the restroom door. "You're up early, aren't you? That's admirable dedication to your duties, in a house where you're one of our guests."
>>
"A maid's duties begin early," Stengel replies primly. "If all things around the house are to be kept appropriately we must rise well before our masters do, to ensure nothing is out of place when you lay eyes on it. As for my being a guest, Stachel and I will attend to our proper duties in any home where you and Lady Liliesviel reside; the identity of its owner makes no difference." With a smile, she adds, "but I could say the same to you, couldn't I, Lord Alberich? You've risen quite early, when one considers what a late night you had; but for we four, not another in this house is awake. Did you not rest well?"

"No," you shake your head with a chuckle. "There was nothing to complain of about my sleep; but a Servant requires little of it, and I do enjoy the dawn." As you're saying this, the flow of water in Liliesviel's shower is shut off, and you cut short your discussion to motion Stengel to the door. "It seems your mistress has finished bathing," you say. "Don't keep her waiting for her clothing."

With a respectful nod, Stengel knocks, enters the restroom, and returns a few minutes later with her delivery completed. From the time she spent within, you wonder whether Liliesviel follows the old aristocratic habit of having her servants help her dress. Considering the complexity of her dresses, it would hardly be surprising. Far more rapidly than she entered, Stengel excuses herself from your presence as you consider this matter, giving another curtsy before retreating into the corridor and shutting the door behind her. Once more, you and Liliesviel are alone.

No sooner has Stengel exited than Liliesviel emerges cheerfully from the restroom, looking much rejuvenated for her ablutions. There's no trace of the disheveled state in which the pair of you fell asleep: not a hair is out of place, not a fold of her exquisite skirts imperfect, and this renewal of her appearance seems to have entirely dispelled the girl's embarrassment. With an energy quite unexpected after her manner on awakening, she exclaims, "Since you waited so nicely, Alberich, now you can get as close to me as you like!" and so saying, throws herself bodily onto you in a startling flying embrace that leaves her half-sitting on your lap, half lying atop you, resting her head on your shoulder and her arms around your neck while her feet dangle off the side of the bed.

"Well!" you remark with a wry grin, "I'm glad to see your ardor has been restored. After your eagerness to get away from me this morning, I was worried there was something in my conduct last night to offend."

"Oh, no," Liliesviel sighs. "Everything was just the way I'd imagined it, and now we'll be together forever! I couldn't be happier."

"Wonderful," you reply, "then our feelings are indeed the same; but you know, I'm not the only one whose relationship with you changed last night. I wonder, how are you getting along with the Servant I gave you?"
>>
"Hmm?" At this change of subject, Liliesviel pulls back, rising into a sitting position on your lap so she can look you in the eye. "With Circe? Everything was fine, of course. She's not the kind of troublesome Servant who can resist me, like Otto, you know. We had a nice, long, talk and worked everything out!" she declares, smiling brightly.

"Really?" You can't help being rather surprised at this development. "You didn't find her pride troublesome? It seemed to me that Circe was rather reluctant to become your Servant."

"Oh, that," Liliesviel says, pursing her lips at the recollection. "Well, yes, she wasn't happy about it at the beginning, but I took care of all that with my command spell. You must've seen how different it is from the other Masters' when I made the contract, yes?"

"I did indeed," you answer, nodding. "And this enabled you to secure Circe's loyalty beyond any doubt?"

"Of course!" Liliesviel wears an expression that, although affectionate, seems to imply this should be completely obvious as she answers. "I ordered her 'be loyal to me.' Since it's such a broad order, I had to repeat it five or six times before it really worked its way into her mind, but after a while I could tell it had brought her in line. After that, I had her tell me the whole story of the Holy Grail War you two fought, and everything she thought about it, as well as what she did afterwards, all from the beginning. So now I know everything you went through in order to get to me! The way you fought so valiantly, even though you weren't a Servant, was really wonderful."

"Thank you," you say somewhat absently, your mind focused on Liliesviel's explanation of her alteration of Circe's mind. Her command spell, it would seem, can be used without limit to enforce obedience; and Circe told her everything about the Akeldama without exception? The thought unnerves you for a moment. Of course you have intended to have no more secrets between you and Liliesviel, but even so, to have the story of your experience told in such detail outside of your presence... You suppose you're lucky that there was nothing in the tail to sour Liliesviel's opinion of you. Then there's the subject of Circe's exploits after the end of Judas' War, something you yourself had hoped to learn more about from either the Servant or Yumigawa.

>[ ] Bring up a detail about the Akeldama War. There's something you're curious about Circe's opinion of, or Liliesviel's reaction to. (What, exactly?)

>[ ] Ask Liliesviel about what Circe did in Tokyo (What do you want to know?)

>[ ] Now that you know Liliesviel's secured Circe's loyalty, you're satisfied. Extricate yourself from the girl's arms and conversation as politely as possible, then head for a different part of the manor. (Summoning? Studying magic? Speaking to another housemate? About what?)

>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)
>>
>>4047497
>>[ ] Now that you know Liliesviel's secured Circe's loyalty, you're satisfied. Extricate yourself from the girl's arms and conversation as politely as possible, then head for a different part of the manor. (Summoning? Studying magic? Speaking to another housemate? About what?)
Summoning.
All I wanted to know from you, Lily.
Disappointing.
...
As one of the original Circefags, now I just feel bad.
About...
Lots of things, actually.
Lily a shit.

Where's that Rule Breaker at Emiya.
>>
>>4047504
I am baffled.
I think you may possibly have misinterpreted something.
>>
>>4047510
Command spells are for losers who can't keep their servants under control.
>>
>>4047513
Guess you're definitely not a fan of Rin.
Because of this you feel bad about how the plot's developed, and switch to insulting Liliesviel? Did you expect someone with an unlimited-use command spell not to use it on a Servant who can keep herself alive independently and previously tried to kill her? Did you not want Liliesviel to hear the full story of the Akeldama War? Are you afraid that Circe will have lost some of her personality when you next meet her?
I don't understand what it is about this that's disheartening to you.
>>
>>4047497
>[ ] Now that you know Liliesviel's secured Circe's loyalty, you're satisfied. Extricate yourself from the girl's arms and conversation as politely as possible, then head for a different part of the manor.
Get Futodoki to hang out with us while we summon our next familiar.
>>
>>4047497
>[ ] Now that you know Liliesviel's secured Circe's loyalty, you're satisfied. Extricate yourself from the girl's arms and conversation as politely as possible, then head for a different part of the manor. (Summoning? Studying magic? Speaking to another housemate? About what?)
Who would be best for training our absorption magic to become an effective counter to Odin's runes?
>>
>>4047518
I could've just dealt without the plot shitting on Circe.
...
Again.

While I may already have accepted that the Circe route was brutally murdered, I don't like having salt rubbed in an open wound like this.
Especially because as far as pretty much everyone could tell we were effectively cornered by the story into giving Lily exactly what she wanted.
...
Again.

I don't resent the idea of the Lily route, but that doesn't mean I have to like all the aspects of it's execution.

People voted for fucking Saber Alter to not act *completely* loyal to us, so why oh why would you think having Circe, who despite everything, is still in the running for most popular girl being forced into loyalty would be good?
I mean, I know that it makes some sense in the context of the story, but I don't think anyone wanted this for the dynamic between Circe and Lily.
At all.
In fact, if I realized this was going to happen, then I would've just preferred Circe to straight up die.
Instead of having something that just feels like wasted potential.

And yes, Rin a shit too.
>>
>>4047560
Oh, man.
Sometimes it's the smallest edits that make the biggest difference in reaction. I can see you've blown this out of proportion in your head due to phrasing.
I had thought about having Liliesviel say something along the lines of "until she was just as friendly as your new Saber" or something, but since I couldn't settle on a wording for the line that I liked, I dropped it.
So here, anon. Have a small-scale spoiler to make you feel better. Circe's personality, goals, manner etc haven't changed; she just can't disobey or try to harm Liliesviel.
Now if that still makes you angry, I really don't know what you expected from giving her to Liliesviel as a Servant.
>>
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>>4047578
Well, carry on then.

Phrasing is important.
>>
>>4047586
It... really is.
>>
>>4047650
I could even make a phrasing joke here about for my image of how this wasn't quite what Bazett expected when she was told her "Husbando was going to impale her."

Speaking of which, I cannot even begin to imagine the level of rage Bazett would have caused in this quest as an enemy.
Played right, you could basically have the players fear ever using their Noble Phantasm in any circumstance.

It's a shame that she's dead, because she really would've put the fear of magi into the players in a way that Harris seems unable to.
>>
>>4047497
>[ ] Ask Liliesviel about what Circe did in Tokyo (What do you want to know?)
We are still a bit in the dark on that topic
>>
>>4046711
Couldn't say. The third Marshall is a complete mystery in canon, so anything we see here is fanfiction.
>>4047497
>[ ] Now that you know Liliesviel's secured Circe's loyalty, you're satisfied. Extricate yourself from the girl's arms and conversation as politely as possible, then head for a different part of the manor. (Summoning? Studying magic? Speaking to another housemate? About what?)
Adelheid. Go to Adelheid
>>4047578
That seems like an important detail to include.
>Since it's such a broad order, I had to repeat it five or six times before she was as friendly as your own Saber"
>>
>>4047887
We can just ask her that, you know.
>>
Although I do still wonder how Circe path would've gone; Lily is cute and so long as the quality stays up i'm easy to please.

>>4047497
>[ ] (Studying magic)
Either Absorption or check on Adelheid.
Unless we pull Fenrir or we can eat the rejects for upgrades, I don't feel summoning would give us a game changer against Odin. Considering our team composition vs the rest of the competition's current threat levels, I doubt anything we pull would really contribute much unless team Shirou, Harris, and assassin band together.

>>4047664
For a while I had a similar 'fear' Sweets would throw us for a loop by having us deal with someone like assassin Casanova considering we've surrounded ourselves with a harem and would have to deal with skipping an upgrade or find a way to avoid a command seal suicide dead end, although it would be 'entertaining' to see how such a hypothetical upgrade would mesh with predatory charisma.
>>
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>>4047497
>[ ] Now that you know Liliesviel's secured Circe's loyalty, you're satisfied. Extricate yourself from the girl's arms and conversation as politely as possible, then head for a different part of the manor. (Summoning)
gacha time
>>
>>4048006
>Assassin Casanova
Oh man, that is a great idea! I wish I'd thought of that.
>>
>>4048055
He would've been the source of Predatory Charisma
>>
>>4048006
>I doubt anything we pull would really contribute much unless team Shirou, Harris, and assassin band together.
Although I love rolling dice, I'll have to agree with you on that one
besides, didn't Futodoki say he had some sort of magical sight that could see hidden things?
>>4048041
>>4047497
changing my vote to Studying Absorption magic
>>
>>4048080
Ah. For a second I though we had a vote decided.
>>
>>4048080
Studying magic?
Alone?
Why though?
>>
>>4047497

>[ ] Now that you know Liliesviel's secured Circe's loyalty, you're satisfied. Extricate yourself from the girl's arms and conversation as politely as possible, then head for a different part of the manor. (Summoning? Studying magic? Speaking to another housemate? About what?)

Solo Absorption. It's better to wait on Adelheid in case she hasn't finished yet.

>>4048136
Because that is how magecraft is meant to be done.
>>
>Absorption
>not Rejection
For the love of god
We already have Absorption.
What are you doing.
>>
>>4048136
as much as I like rolling, I just can't really see how summoning could help us now, besides Odin, the other enemies can be countered already
>Assassin
Futotdoki has mentioned he had some magical sight that allowed him to see hidden things when we summoned him
>Emiya
PTSD induced Excaliblasts and Kenótis for any sword he throws at us
>Medusa
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
>Sakura
this would be the only threat I could see us getting to worry about in case she decides to go full Man Juice if we accidentally kill Shirou
>Harris
We can probably try attacking him from afar after scrying for him
>Matsuda
Throw our maid at him
>Odin
Can only be beaten in a 1v1, so summoning is kind of out of question, strengthening Absorbiton might enable us to counter his runes even if a little

So, unless we could get some pretty high rolls and summon a Divine Beast or something able to easily deal with Sakura, which would pretty much be 2% chance, I don't think summoning could really be worthy
>Alone?
well, I guess we could ask Circe or Odin if they can help us out, or check on Adelheid if she finished decrypting the damn book
>>
>>4048192
>I don't think summoning could really be worthy
Worthy of what? What's the cost here? It's just a fun thing to do while we wait for the rest of the house to wake up. It doesn't cost anything or take nearly as long as a study session would.
>>
>>4048207
well...
if we could eventually fit the study together with that day off with the gang we had been talking, suppose you have a point

On a side note, can we get POTENTIALLY get upgrades from killing things from the IN space?
>>
>>4048220
Considering the amount of things that actually exist in IN space, we might not need to kill them.
I mean, for all we know we could summon a familiar that passively boosts our own parameters.
There is a LOT of stuff in Number Space.

And besides, the Shijou ritual might work on them, you're right about that.

It's just odd for us to finally get the gang together and then immediately study for hours alone.
All that's going to do is make Circe feel even worse.
But then again, we might also summon Scylla.
>>
>>4048220
I'm going to break protocol here and spoil you by saying yes. It is possible to get a variety of benefits from beings summoned from the Realm of Imaginary Numbers aside from directly using them as familiars.
>>
>>4048186
>Because that is how magecraft is meant to be done.
No.
>>
>Absorption
Why not Rejection?
>>
>>4048270
Then vote for it. You have the power of your vote
>>
Can we get an update describing what we might actually get from some of these magic training suggestions?
>>
>literally studying the same shit we've already learned is going to win
For fucks sake, are we really going to waste a study session A SECOND TIME.
>>
>>4048239
>>4048236
>>4048080
>>4047497
Summoning it is
>>
>>4048281
>training an attribute once means you won't get anything out of more study
>>
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>>4047586
same energy
>>
Nobody knows what we're actually voting for with magic study because Fate magecraft is intentionally opaque and we're being left in the dark. Which is why we've wasted time studying in the past.
>>
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>>4048288
"not this shit again"
>>
>>4047497
>[ ] Now that you know Liliesviel's secured Circe's loyalty, you're satisfied. Extricate yourself from the girl's arms and conversation as politely as possible, then head for a different part of the manor. (Rejection)

Sweets. What did Circe mention about Rejection again? Something about shielding ourselves?
>>
>>4048285
Yes, it really kind of does, unless you suggest we vomit out a couple new textbooks to learn the specifics of absorption from.
We won't learn anything more from solo practice, honestly.
We can already counter Age of Gods magic, what the hell else do you want to do with it?
I could understand if you wanted to increase our magical repertoire by learning Rejection from Circe or Transference from Lily, but why the hell do you want to double down on damn Absorption?

>>4048291
>I don't know what I'm voting for: the post
YOU WASTED TIME STUDYING BECAUSE YOU DIDN'T LISTEN TO THE PERSON TELLING YOU YOU WERE GOING TO WASTE TIME.
FUCK.
>>
>>4048306
I didn't vote for solo practice.
>>
>>4048301
She mentioned barriers that apply the concept of impossibility.
>Again, though, since you lack alignment towards the physical elements, we'll be focusing on conceptual rejection using the imaginary elements. By working with those, we should be able to construct barriers and curses that deny the material, or apply the definition of impossibility.
>>
>>4048308
It doesn't matter. It's still a vote to waste our time.
Alberich is a natural genius at magecraft, when he understands the mechanics behind something, he doesn't really need to keep learning them.

I mean, when you can not only counter AoG magic, but also subvert the will of a Heroic Spirit/Sort-of with your absorption, then it's already at a pretty incredible level.

Voting for the Sword Gacha should be much more interesting than another "Alberich reads books" update. Or even a "Circe expositions on Alberich." update.
>>
>>4048317
Look man, I don't care what we train as long as it helps us deal with the massive threat of Odin that most people don't seem too worried about. The day of our faceoff is coming soon.
>>
>>4048345
Sweets literally just said that the Sword Gacha can help us in ways other than just summoning familiars.
I doubt he would've dropped a hint like that unless the Sword Gacha could really help us out here.
>>
Go downstairs and do some summoning
>>4047504
>>4047535
>>4048284

Study Absorption alone
>>4047548
>>4048006
>>4048186

Study Rejection
>>4048301

Ask about Circe's doings in Tokyo
>>4047887

Visit Adelheid
>>4047904

Well, well, well! Half past midnight, and we're still tied! To think I wanted to get three updates done today.
Is there anyone who hasn't voted yet, I wonder?
>>
>>4048702
I'll switch to summoning to get things moving.
>>
O~kay!
Rather than writing an update where you go down to the basement, having you all roll, and then writing an update where you discover the results of your new summon, I'd rather do it all at once. So! It's time for everyone's favorite game-like element: the gacha!

Everyone, roll 1d1000. Just as before I'll take the best of the first ten rolls, but each person can only roll once!
>>
Rolled 65 (1d1000)

>>4048731
Watch this 1
>>
Rolled 909, 366, 994, 371, 423, 726, 98, 973, 639, 889, 768, 189, 139, 443, 342, 717, 970, 539, 180, 395 = 11070 (20d1000)

>>4048732
How cute,the dice still think we're doing d100s
>>
Rolled 409 (1d1000)

>>4048731
>>
>>4048731
Are you sure you even have ten players?
>>
>>4048751
I had ten rolls the last time we did this.
>>
>>4048753
In this thread. It doesn't look like we have ten players, maybe 6-8?
>>
>>4048759
There were nine different votes on this last choice, and it seems like there are usually some folks who don't actively vote on every choice.
Still, it's not as though I'm going to indefinitely postpone the update until I get ten rolls. Don't worry.
>>
Rolled 264 (1d1000)

>>4048731
>>
Rolled 580 (1d1000)

>>4048731
>>
Rolled 997 (1d1000)

>>4048731
Well
Ok
>>
>>4048832
I AM BECOME GACHA
DESTROYER OF WORLDS.
>>
Rolled 676 (1d1000)

>>4048731

>>4048832
Oh wow holy shit.
>>
>>4048832
My goodness! That's what I'd call a stroke of good fortune!
Unless someone appears with a one, it seems you folks can look forward to quite an appearance in tomorrow morning's update.
>>
>>4048832
I'm ready for our Rate Up Limited SSSR, Sweets.
>>4048860
>with a 1
N-no.
>>
>>4048832
conglaturations! You got "Gugalana
>>
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>>4048895
>Gugalana
>Not best mom
Jokes aside, I am wondering just what the Rate-up SSSR category nets us.
I mean, just a Rare was a decently strong phantasmal beast.
>>
>>4048910
Seriously speaking, the gods would probably put Tiamat on a blacklist because they don't want to wipe out all life on Earth.
However, the real reason is that best mom would immediately win the Alberichbowl
>>
Rolled 878 (1d1000)

>>4048731
>>
Rolled 184 (1d1000)

>>4048731
>>
Ok, so what do we do if it is like, Hecate.
Watch Circe self-destruct?
>>
Rolled 97 (1d1000)

>>4048731
>>
>>4049218
>still rolling after a 997
Why
>>
>>4049220
Ten rolls to roll them all, ten rolls to find them.
Ten rolls to bring them all: and in the brightness bind them.
>>
>>4049232
You have misquoted Tolkien for the last time.
>>
>>4048832
Holy shit.
This is going to be bizarre.
>>
What were the rates again?
>>
>>4049330
Common
001-400

Uncommon
401-800

Rare
801-920

SR
921-960

SSR
961-990

General SSSR
991-993

Rate-Up SSSR
994-1000

I knew all those four leaf clovers I found as child were trying to tell me something.
>>
>>4049330
Common
001-400

Uncommon
401-800

Rare
801-920

SR
921-960

SSR
961-990

General SSSR
991-993

Rate-Up SSSR
994-1000
>>
Which attribute would Alberich have in FGO?
>>
>>4049351
Careful now.
This kills the Sweets.
>>
>>4049351
His Origin is the same in any medium. Emptiness.
>>
>>4049398
He meant in the (Man, Earth, Heaven, Star and Beast) sense.
You know, the unneeded dumb game mechanic sense.
I loathe FGO.
>>
>>4049406
Oh. Well.
Those attributes are hidden. You'll have to wait for it to show up on one of the FGO wikis, I'm afraid.
>>
>>4049351
>>4049406
To give a more serious answer, I can't determine one attribute because the frame of reference those attributes use is flawed. Star signifies the advancement of mankind, but such advancement can only be away from divinity in FGO, even though progression away from divinity is a process of decline and regression for mankind in every other Fate entry. Heaven is an attribute of divinity, yes, but tied to the gods themselves and thus also inappropriate for Alberich.
Heavenly Star? Inverse Star? Meteor?
Take your pick, or make a suggestion. but as you know the reason for Alberich's creation that Judas told you about you can see my dilemma.
>>
>>4049431
>Inverse Star
...
Beast?
>>
>>4049439
I'm not completely familiar with FGO's lore, but aren't the beasts largely there to destroy mankind? That definitely doesn't work.
>>
>>4049463
Alberich might as well just have his own special Attribute then, if we were to use the terribly flimsy rock paper scissors system FGO seems to love so much he just wouldn't fit I guess.
>>
>>4049473
FGO does love to break its own rules, so to be honest I'd be inclined to put him in Star and have a line somewhere about how "the path of humanity's advancement he represents differs from that of such as Tesla, but he is no less an agent of human elevation" or something.
>>
>>4047497
>[ ] Now that you know Liliesviel's secured Circe's loyalty, you're satisfied. Extricate yourself from the girl's arms and conversation as politely as possible, then head for a different part of the manor. (Summoning? Studying magic? Speaking to another housemate? About what?)
Talk with Futodoki about his stealthiness and if he has any ideas on how we can try to find Assassin. Also ask if he'd care to introduce himself to Lily since he's one of the last who hasn't done so and he'd probably be happy to go to his normal form in the house.
>>
Rolled 92 (1d1000)

>>4048702>>4048731

Oh, I intended to changed from >>4047887
to >>4049500, but now I'll roll the gacha (not that I'll beat 997 but might as well try)
>>
>>4049500
Anon...
We already voted to summon and got an SSSR.
>>
>>4049514
I caught on a little late I know
>>
How the hell does winning a naval battle make Francis Drake a pioneer to the stars?
How is that in any way comparable to Tesla's inventions?
If they'd given it to Columbus, or made a Magellan Servant, I could understand, but Drake? Come on!
Let's be honest, Drake didn't even defeat the Spanish Armada. Poor planning did.
>>
>>4049536
Don't forget that according to FGO, she canonically defeated Poseidon.
As a human.
>>
>>4049566
Hey, according to FGO, Poseidon is a giant robot and Drake's ship can shoot laser cannons. We all know a sufficiently powerful laser-equipped battleship can defeat mecha.
>>
>>4049600
FGO is really trash, isn't it?
>>
>>4049566
Here's my alternative version of that scene.
Drake, recognizing the God of the seas, knelt down and thanked the patron of all his successes in life, who had given him so much and raised him so high. Poseidon, touched by this show of reverence and humility from a human who lived so long after the Age of Gods, changed his mind. Thus he abandoned his project for the Holy Grail and bestowed it on Drake as a boon.
>>
>>4049607
If it wasn't, we wouldn't be here today.
>>
>>4049619
Yeah, but then Drake wouldn't get to use their ROW ROW FIGHT THE POWER skill and literally do the impossible.

Fucking Pioneer of the Stars is a joke.
Everything about Drake is.
Including the EX Luck.
>>
Upon further consideration, you decide that it would be for the best to discuss any further details of what Circe revealed to Liliesviel with the Servant present, as well as the Master. Indeed, it seems that your conversation in bed has begun to drag on, restful though it may be. The sun continues to rise and the numbers of singing birds increase, as dawn gives way to early morning. Even with no pressing emergency, you haven't unlimited time, and the nervous, prudent side of you that continuously urges to prepare for further danger bids you turn your mind to other matters. Thus you sit up straighter, shift Liliesviel gently off of your lap, and leaving her with a peck on the cheek slide off of the bed and to your feet.

"It heartens me to know that you've come to such an excellent accord with Circe," you say with a smile. "I suppose my concerns about her attitude were groundless, then. Now, if you'll excuse me, I believe I'll bathe and dress in my turn." So saying, you follow Liliesviel's example and head for the restroom, though without the modest covering of a sheet that she employed. Unlike the girl, you've no qualms about letting your lover see whatever details of your body she was unable to make out last night.

In the shower, as you let the hot water take its invigorating and rejuvenating effect in coursing over you, you consider the needs of the day. With no clear idea of how to locate the last unseen competitor in the Holy Grail War, matters are somewhat open to you in terms of planning. Nevertheless, there are projects underway to be considered, and events to be put in order.

First of these to be considered is the matter of your companions' actions. Adelheid will likely spend much of the day at the labor of deciphering Vaisset's notes; a job that can be done alone, but that you resolve to discuss with her once she's had some time to come to grips with it. If nothing else, you can hopefully receive some estimate of the time it will take her to produce a full translation of his journal and experimental log. Ayaka will doubtless wish to spend the day immersed in the chronicles of her family, of course, and unless some pressing matter arises you can likely leave her to the worthy pursuit. The rest of your compatriots, however, move in less certain courses. Arturia you can perhaps set to working with Liliesviel's maids and improving her etiquette, since the woman is of little other use outside of battle. Kōrakuhime is more vague still; previously she spent her time focused on the study of Arturia's spiritual composition, but you wonder how she'll fill her time now, with that task brought to an end. It may be useful to discuss the matter with her; on that subject, it suddenly occurs to you that you still lack knowledge of her Noble Phantasms! Perhaps today you can convince her to share their details with you.
>>
The subject of Kōrakuhime's Noble Phantasms guides your thoughts elsewhere, though, and from your companions' schedules you turn your mind to another matter which you ought to continue growing your knowledge of: magic. If you are to achieve your goal of boundless superiority you surely ought to train your magical aptitude daily, and there are today new resources at your disposal in that matter. Circe made clear last night a desire to instruct you further, and although you dismissed her at the time for the sake of humbling her overgrown pride, you can hardly ignore the potency of the enchantress' knowledge. Then, too, there are the mystic codes she produced for you in the Akeldama to be considered. If she could empower you in the same way once more, it would surely give you a useful edge in the coming battle with Odin. Liliesviel, too, seems to have a wealth of techniques at her disposal which are quite alien to your understanding of magic, and now that the two of you are bound together in spirit it could be that you can learn the Einzbern magic without compromising its mystery; didn't Judas say, after all, that magic would affect the two of you as if you were one person? With that in mind, you resolve later to gather Liliesviel and Circe together and discuss the matter of improving your magical abilities.

None of these discussions, however, can be had at the moment for, as your ears and Liliesviel's maid have informed you, all those you'd speak with save Liliesviel remain asleep. Thus, you resolve once out of the shower to pass the time in a manner both amusing and productive. You'll make use of Heiligöffnungschwert's most arcane miracle once more, and summon a new familiar for yourself from the Realm of Imaginary Numbers. You'd previously refrained from further summoning out of concern for the provision of magical energy, but with two Casters at your disposal and Circe no longer drawing her sustenance from Mana, you're sure something can be worked out. Besides, if the creature proves to be of talents as versatile as Futodoki's it can hardly be an act to be regretted.

With your first plans for the day thus made, you cut the water off, ready to face the day with renewed mind and clean body. You towel off, comb your hair into shape, dress in a suit bearing your by-now rather characteristic style of black with burgundy pinstripes, and step back out into the bedroom. There you discover Liliesviel, though fully dressed, asleep once more atop the bedclothes. She's nearly human. Of course. The thought suddenly arises which should have come to mind much sooner, that the girl needs quite a bit more than the scant hour of sleep you had. She must have been pushing herself to be as pleasant and energetic with you as possible after you forced her to awaken, you realize with some remorse. Ah, well. You can at least make your exit silently, and leave Liliesviel to recover her needed rest while you busy yourself about other matters.
>>
After a descent to the basement through the sleeping house, in which you encounter no-one save Stachel, mechanically polishing a sculpture in the hall, you discover in the basement that there is one other sentient being awake in the manor after all: Futodoki, though curled up in a posture of sleep on Vaisset's work chair, has all three eyes open to regard you as you enter.

"Well, well, well," he drawls exasperatedly, "if it isn't my summoner. What brings you down here, when I was hoping to snatch some time alone? Come to order me to keep that disguise up even when there's nobody to see, maybe?"

You can't help but chuckle at the cat's manner. Though you should surely be angry, his open hostility at someone who's done him no ill is so absurd that you find yourself able only to be amused by Futodoki, no matter how insolent his behavior. Of course, you consider that his form surely does have its part to play in that. It's much easier to forgive the insults of a soft, glossy-coated, and utterly non-threatening feline pet than of a human being. "No, you needn't worry about that," you reply with an indulgent smile. "In fact, I'd no idea you were down here. I've come for quite another purpose, although you're free to join me if you'd like. I've decided to summon another being from the Realm of Imaginary Numbers."

"Oh ho?" Futodoki's tone implies that, were he human, he would be raising his eyebrows. "Calling another of us out, eh? You might not be as lucky the second time as you were with me, you know; but don't let me discourage you. This I'd like to see." So saying, he hops gracefully down from the chair to land silently on eight sable paws, and pads over to the corridor, preceding you as you make your way again to the room in which he was summoned.

Entering the familiar room of sparring and target practice, of pockmarks and burns in the walls and scratches on the floor, you cast your mind back to the experiment of summoning Futodoki. First you meditated on your blade, determining that it cast a passive influence on the world around you that could enable it to, upon its activation, summon and sustain those impossibilities which dwell with the Gods. That meditation, however, played little direct part in your action, and so you believe that this time you may dispense with it. Next had come the cut, an attempt to open a door between the realms by slicing away a portion of the barrier between them, but this too seems to have been in error, since the portal that brought forth Futodoki seemed to flow out from the point of your sword rather more like the ink from a fountain pen than the traced path of a blade.
>>
This time, then, you may adopt a different posture, and are more confident in how best to perform the summoning. Bringing forth the black sword in your right hand, you stretch the point out before your eyes, holding it before you as if pointing to the horizon beyond the walls of this room. Without moving, but only impelling the blade mentally to call forth a new attendant to your will, you call out the name of your Noble Phantasm.

"Heiligöffnungschwert!"

Once more, the pure blackness that is the wholesale absence and absorption of light flows forth, pooling upon the surface of the world before you as though all your vision were reduced to a two-dimensional plane vertically parallel to your eye, until an amorphous hole is opened up before you that stretches from the level of the sword's point to the ground, as if some bizarre, amorphous door were suspended in the air by your blade. This time you know what comes next, and steel yourself for it: burning, searing, impossibly bright color. It's no more easily tolerated now than the first time. What was no more than a blithely observed phenomenon when you were yourself a formless spirit on the edge of reality is hear an assault on the senses, rendered yet more painful by its simultaneous existence with ordinary sight. The light of passage that signals the contact between the Real and Imaginary realms lasts only a moment, though, and the pain fades soon after it vanishes.

In the wake of that burning light, the shadow that poured from your blade has taken on a more definite form: something like a loose robe or sloping body, two feet at the base, two arms, a torso, and head with two points of red light. For all its strangeness, the thing is largely humanoid, the shadow of an uncertain biped cast on a nonexistent wall. As you recognize its existence, the bond of summoner and familiar is once more forged as it was with Futodoki. First a surge of energy pulled through Heiligöffnungschwert, and then the consistent flow from you to it, sustaining its existence and binding it to this world; and as the shadow receives the energy, it is transformed in a wave of coruscation into a thing more suited to Real senses.
>>
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Standing before you is a woman of a most singular and startling appearance. She stands perhaps a head shorter than you, though still taller than most of your acquaintances, in a flowing white gown trimmed with black ribbon that sets off her vivacious complexion admirably as well as highlighting her other assets to great effect. More striking than her clothing, however, is her own coloration, for her eyes have the same iridescent gradient of pink and blue color Circe's, and she has besides that an enormous head of flowing hair the precise shade of cherry blossoms, which hangs not only behind but to either side of her, so that it forms a backdrop for her entire torso, giving a most appropriate accent to her gentle, kind features. Most striking of all, however, are her ears: those of a rabbit, stiff at the base though hanging down slightly toward the top, of the same color as her hair and protruding from the crown of her head.

As she appears, this strange woman proclaims with an ecstatic expression, "At last! My followers, you've returned me to the world of-" her words cut off abruptly as she lays eyes on you, the blade outstretched before her, and her surroundings. Fear as intense as her joy of a moment before suffuses her countenance, and she lets out a terrified squeak while taking a rapid step back. Although she doesn't dare turn her face from you, her eyes search frantically around the room for an exit. Unfortunately for her you're standing between the woman and the only door, and her backing away is only bringing her closer to a wall. The woman must realize this, for the fright on her face is soon joined by despair. She looks as if she's about to cry.

The woman's emotion doesn't slow her voice, though, as she terrifiedly asks in rapid fire, "Who are you? Why did you summon me? How? Where am I?"

>[ ] "I was attempting to summon a familiar, but you don't seem anything of the kind. How disappointing."

>[ ] "You're in the world of man, to which I sought to bring someone forth from the Realm of Imaginary Numbers to serve me. Futodoki here was the first I summoned. What sort of being are you?"

>[ ] "Before I answer your questions, you can answer mine. Who and what are you?"

>[ ] Ignore the woman's queries and ask Futodoki what he thinks of her.

>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)
>>
>>4049901
>>[ ] "Before I answer your questions, you can answer mine. Who and what are you?"
Oh no.
>"At last! My followers, you've returned me to the world of-"
Oh no
>for her eyes have the same iridescent gradient of pink and blue color Circe's,
It is Hecate, isn't it?
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
>>
>>4049901
>[X] Ignore the woman's queries and ask Futodoki what he thinks of her.
The most comedic option.
>>
Oh, by the way. Now that you've pulled the rate-up summon, drop rates will be tweaked going forward. Here's what we'll be using in future:

0001 ~ ???
2-400 ~ Common
401-800 ~ Uncommon
801-920 ~ Rare
921-960 ~ SR
961-990 ~ SSR
991-999 ~ Unique (Formerly titled SSSR)
1000 ~ ???
>>
Rolled 158 (1d1000)

>>4049912
Naruhodo.
>>
>>4049901
>[ ] "You're in the world of man, to which I sought to bring someone forth from the Realm of Imaginary Numbers to serve me. Futodoki here was the first I summoned. What sort of being are you?"
>>
>>4049901
>the same iridescent gradient of pink and blue color Circe's
I always notice these mistakes after the fact. That should read "the same iridescent gradient of pink and blue that adorns Circe's.
>>
And so continues Circe's "worst week ever"
>>
Well if this IS Hecate, good for Circe for having someone to bully now.
>>
>>4049933
>good for Circe for having someone to bully now.
>having someone to bully
One of them is still divine.
The other... not so much.
Besides, what makes you think Circe would be able to bully her own mother?
Especially in her current state of subserveince
>>
>>4049901
>Pet her head and ears while asking her who she is

>Hecate is a shortstack
MUH DICK
>>
>>4049944
Just so we're clear, this woman is of average height. Alberich is just really tall.
>>
>>4049952
>6'2"
He's not that tall from my perspective
>>
>>4049959
Nor mine.
Pretty sure Emiya is also 6'2".
>>
>>4049962
Emiya, who is consistently remarked upon in Fate as being strikingly tall.
>>
>>4049962
according to the wiki he's 167cm
5'4" in freedom numbers
>>
>>4049967
>as being strikingly tall
for a Japanese guy, yeah.
He's about as tall as Lancer.
But an inch shorter than Kotomine.
Kirei is fucking huge.

>>4049968
EMIYA, anon.
Or "the adult version of Shirou with the tan" if you prefer.
>>
>>4049968
Servant EMIYA is between 6'1" and 6'2".
Emiya Shirou is shorter in FSN, but 6'1" by the time of this quest.

>>4049959
Global average height for a healthy man is 5'7". 5'4" for a woman. The woman you just summoned is 5'6". Make of that what you will.
>>
>>4049975
sorry, I'm retarded
>187cm
>6'1" in freedom
>>
>>4049943
They are both now in a state of subservience and on equal footing under Alberich's authority.
We actually like one while the other is a newcomer.
Circe has every right to bully the shit outta here.

>>4049952
>Just so we're clear, this woman is of average height.
You ruined her.
>>
>>4049982
>They are both now in a state of subservience and on equal footing under Alberich's authority.
Except they aren't?
Unless you intend to use command spells (which we do not own) on a being that is not only NOT a Servant, but also an actual Goddess of Magic incarnated into the world.
She's using our energy, true enough, but that doesn't make her subservient to us like Circe is now to Lily.
She, like Odin, is an actual divine spirit.
And not even one bound to the Servant System.

This sword is fucked though.
Straight up fucked.
EX when

Unless it's a red herring and it's actually Scylla.

>You ruined her.
False.
>>
>Hecate
>Scylla
>Bunny girl
Why though? They don't have any connection to rabbits I know. If this chick is some goddess shouldn't she be one with a reason for those ears? If Hecate is Circe's mother shouldnt she have elf ears like her daughter?
>>
I don't think telling a Divine Spirit that she's subservient to us right off the bat is a good idea.
>>
>>4050013
I mean, I think Hecate was a moon goddess in addition to other things, no?
Don't rabbits and the moon have a weird connection in the east?
You know, because of the Moon Rabbit stuff.

>>4050030
Probably not, no.
I mean, she's actually likely far more reliant on us than a typical Servant would be to actually manifest due to the nature of Heilig making it possible for her to exist, so I don't think we have to worry about death unless she wants to go back.
She definitely does not want to go back.
But dealing with Goddesses of Magic lightly is foolish when they haven't actually lost their status as a Goddess.
>>
>>4049976
Is it possible to ask Circe what the FUCK was up with the Olympians

Or are you leaving LB5 shenanigana out of this quests canon
>>
>>4049901
>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)
>Sheathe the sword and say "Try to calm down, I didn't call you here to harm you"
Then
>[ ] "Before I answer your questions, you can answer mine. Who and what are you?"
>>
What's stopping us from modifying our method to control Arturia and using it on our summons? I'm not sure it's the best idea to use on gods unless it is but on weaker summons it might be doable.
>>
>>4050097
>Or are you leaving LB5 shenanigana out of this quests canon
No shit, anon.
Retarded shit would get left out of the canon of anything unless the writer was horribly brain damaged.
We already mentioned how retarded FGO was for having Drake kill Poseidon and sink Atlantis.

There's simply no point of taking anything past a certain point in Type-Moon's existence as canon to the world of FSN.

There's a point where any artistic integrity they had is traded away for ideas that would make lots of money.

Like all of FGO being a fucking trainwreck that shits all over the universe from the opening segment.
>>
>>4050110
Doesn't work.
>>
>>4050110
>modifying our method to control Arturia
Plenty.
1) Arturia was only possible for us to control because we could revert her to a state where she was already remodelled to take orders
2) Said state was only possible because we had Tsubaki's assistance and days of research went into it
3)Said state was additionally only possible because of Arturia's unique existence as a Living Heroic Spirit and the events of the Fifth war.
4) Gods are Gods. Trying to control them is asking for shit to go awfully for you.
5) Gods/Goddesses of Magic are even worse when you primarily use magic.

Attempting to overwhelm the soul of a deity with our own is uh

Well, it isn't going to end well for us.
Best case scenario the control gets turned around on us, worst case they simply absorb our soul.

It's not really worth the trouble.
>>
>>4050097
FGO is, thank god, in a different timeline and I can thus ignore anything about it I care to.
Gods are not giant robots.
>>
>>4050109
Oh, I'll switch to this.

If it is Hecate, man is Alberich going to be... amused?
I mean, he basically just totally showed every magus he knows up by summoning a Divine Spirit without even using a ritual or anything.
>>
>>4050109
this works
>>
>>4050109
This
>>
>>4049919
Having some trouble deleting my previous vote here.
>>
>>4050109
supporting this

>Lily is given Circe.
>immediate response is to summon Hecate by accident.
Alberich doesn't fuck about.

If she's properly incarnated using our sword as the anchor...
Doesn't that mean she's providing her own mana?
God knows we couldn't sustain a Goddess on Ayaka's mana, and we aren't feeling the drain either.
>>
>>4050370
It might be that the strain isn't too much when she's not actively using mana-intensive spells
>>
>>4049901
>[ ] "Before I answer your questions, you can answer mine. Who and what are you?"
This fucking sword. It taunts us
>Circe notices Hecate's magical energy
WE'LL BE RIGHT BACK
>>
>>4050455
>This fucking sword. It taunts us
How do you mean?
>>
>>4050468
How else would I mean it? The sword is clearly giving us the worst possible SSSR because it thrives upon suffering.
>>
>>4050431
We should be immensely strained if we were keeping her summoned by ourselves.
A Goddess is no simple thing to summon and keep manifested.
Even the Einzbern had to cheat and use a homunculus body to make Odin a Pseudo-Servant to allow him to create his own mana.
Lily herself has a near inexhaustible supply and they still opted to instead use a cheat method, even going so far as to alter the grail.

Alberich, Servant as he is, has the mana supply granted to him by a 16 year old average magus. He won't be supplying any Goddesses any time soon.
It's far more likely that she can generate mana by herself, like Odin is doing.

Man, we just went ahead and summoned the real thing with no preparation or ritual for it.
I shouldn't have to tell you how insane that is.
Casters go home.

Heilig is totally an EX-rank at this point, we just don't know how to use it properly, sadly.

>>4050477
>the worst possible SSSR
Don't be mean about Hecate like that, I for one support this surprise new addition to the waifu war.
Besides, you don't know that Circe is going to go berserk at the idea of her being here.

She totally is though.
I can't wait.
>>
This war is really just a giant microcosm of why the Caster class was a terrible idea. They really should have made a Leader class if they wanted to create a class based on fortress creation and minion attacks.
>>
File: Best Egyptian.png (1.36 MB, 909x1500)
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1.36 MB PNG
>>4050515
>They really should have made a Leader class if they wanted to create a class based on fortress creation and minion attacks.
It's called being a non shit tier Rider.
>>
>>4050515
>>4050527
They should've made it just knight classes. Saber, Lancer, Archer, Hammer, Rider, Martial Arter, Assassinater
>>
>>4050544
Yeah, but that would mean that the Knight Class Cheat Codes the founding families intended for themselves wouldn't work.

Of course they didn't work in the first place, but that's besides the point.
Magi aren't good at foresight.
>>
>>4050550
To be fair one of them was a martial artist who learnt a few things because he paid Zelretch's hotel bill. ...Why isn't there a Martial Artister class anyway? All martial artists just get shoehorned into Assassin
>>
Are we getting another update tonight Sweets?
>>
>>4050590
Yes. I'm working on it.
>>
>>4050477
>worst possible SSSR
>when we still don't know who she really is
>or what any of the other options are
Jumping the gun a little there.
>>
Would Circe even be capable of surviving the anguish if Hecate started hanging around on top of everything else that happened to her yesterday?
>>
>>4050810
There's really only one way to find out!
Poor poor Circe.
>>
>>4050477
cmon anon i dont think sweets would punish us for rolling well
>>
>>4050826
I wouldn't worry. It depends if Hecate fits Alberich's 'preferences' like having a flat chest.
>>
>>4050833
I think it's more the fact that Circe has been having assmad conniptions about Hecate for about 2500 years at this point and has shown no signs of slowing down.
>>
Totally unrelated, but curses that apply the definition of impossibility sound interesting. Would those mark their victims as impossible existences that the World has to suppress immediately?
>>
>>4050904
Like infusing something with nothingness to make it impossible to exist in reality?
>>
>>4050955
Pretty much. That sounds like a nasty thing to get hit by, big drain on your magical energy.
>>
>>4050958
That doesn't seem feasible for us to use though, as any Nothingness we make is sustained by the miracles of our sword.
>>
>>4050975
It's not about materializing the stuff, it's about applying its underlying concept to something else through a curse. Circe specifically phrases it as a curse that "applies the definition of impossibility".
>>
"Try to calm yourself," you say gently. "I didn't summon you here to do you harm." Realizing that the chief contributor to your fright is most likely the outstretched point of Heiligöffnungschwert, and that you have no sheath for it as you're dressed without your armor, you let your weapon dematerialize and show your open palms to the woman in a conciliatory gesture accompanied by a smile. "You see? There's nothing to fear from me," you continue, observing that your first display hasn't yet calmed her. "Before I answer your questions, however, I'd like it if you might answer mine. Who and what are you, precisely?"

Instead of replying directly to your question, the woman continues to regard you nervously for a time, evidently not reassured by your show of harmlessness. From the darting of her glossy eyes, rendered moist with unshed tears, it's plan that she longs to bolt for the door; but evidently she realizes as well as you do that such an escape would be impossible. At length she seems to make up her mind, and breathes out a long, shuddering sigh before composing her features, drawing up her posture, and looking you in the eye. Almost immediately, however, her gaze shies away from yours again. Thus it's while regarding a point somewhere on your chin or neck that she finally speaks to you once more in reply.

"I am Hecate," the rabbit-eared woman proclaims, attempting to manifest a regal dignity utterly thwarted by the quavering of her voice, "Goddess of Magic. I have waited millennia for my worshipers to recall me to earth from the Reverse Side of the World, and for doing so I-I thank you. If you are not one of my worshipers, however, I h-have no further business with you. So I a-ask only that you stand aside and let me depart more easily."

A goddess! An incredible revelation, to be sure! Of course you had hoped that Heiligöffnungschwert might be able to summon another being useful to your cause, but this surpasses all your most optimistic imaginings. With Circe's ancient colleague aiding you, your victory in the Holy Grail War must now be assured beyond any doubt. That, at least, is the first notion that strikes you, before your misgivings make themselves known. For a goddess, you feel a bizarrely small amount of magical energy radiating from the woman: not only far less than Odin, but less energy than can be felt from the majority of Servant's you've encountered up until now. Then, too, you discover upon a brief internal examination that you're supplying her with less magical energy than Futodoki requires from you, a quantity hardly to be believed. Just what could be the nature of this woman's condition?
>>
No matter. All of these answers can be discovered in time. For the moment the most pressing issue regarding her is her brazen attempt to dismiss you. Combined with her obvious fear, it's plain that you can break that defiance easily enough. Thus, effecting a cavalier attitude, you say, "There's no need to trouble yourself with the door. If you'd like to make an exit, I'll simply return you from whence you came."

"Wait!" No sooner has your final word passed your lips than that frightened squeak arrests your pretended intentions and Hecate steps forward in an attitude of pleading. "Wait, wait, wait!" she repeats desperately. "Just don't send me back there, please! If you aren't one of my followers and you didn't bring me back out of generosity, there must be something you want from me, right? Right?"

>[ ] "I summoned forth a being from the Realm of Imaginary Numbers to serve me. What is it of value that you can do, that I should keep you in this world?"

>[ ] "Before we discuss that, I'd like to know why you're so frightened of returning to the Reverse Side."

>[ ] "You seem to have suspiciously little magical energy for a goddess, 'Hecate'. You wouldn't be lying to me about your identity for some reason, would you?"
>>
Sorry, it's just a short dialogue update; but hey, the one I wrote earlier was pretty long and two updates in one day is good either way, right?
Anyway, how the devil did all of you folks manage to guess who the she was so immediately? I was blown away! I could barely keep from commenting on it!
>>
>>4051155
>[ ] "Before we discuss that, I'd like to know why you're so frightened of returning to the Reverse Side."
>[ ] "You seem to have suspiciously little magical energy for a goddess, 'Hecate'. You wouldn't be lying to me about your identity for some reason, would you?"
THE PAST IS RECEDING, THE FUTURE IS APPROACHING
OPPORTUNITIES DWINDLE, PRESSURES MOUNT
>>
>>4051155
Because I'm an idiot, I forgot to add

>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)

I assume you folks all take that option for granted by now, but still. Know that it's not only there but encouraged.
>>
>>4051156
>Anyway, how the devil did all of you folks manage to guess who the she was so immediately?
Come on, she has the same eyes as Circe. Who else could it be? Helios?
>>
>>4051154
>Instead of replying directly to your question, the woman continues to regard you nervously for a time, evidently not reassured by your show of harmlessness.
>Almost immediately, however, her gaze shies away from yours again.
>attempting to manifest a regal dignity utterly thwarted by the quavering of her voice
>For a goddess, you feel a bizarrely small amount of magical energy radiating from the woman: not only far less than Odin, but less energy than can be felt from the majority of Servant's you've encountered up until now.
You lost to this, Circe? fuckin weak
>>
>>4051164
To be honest, I was thinking of that as being something of a common trait among Mediterranean deities.
>>
>>4051156
>>4049020
No match for my Clairvoyance: EX.
>>4051155
>[ ] "Before we discuss that, I'd like to know why you're so frightened of returning to the Reverse Side."
>[ ] "You seem to have suspiciously little magical energy for a goddess, 'Hecate'. You wouldn't be lying to me about your identity for some reason, would you?"
I wonder why we can't feel much magic from her.

>>4051174
>You lost to this, Circe? fuckin weak
I mean... no?
I doubt Hecate personally took away Circe's divinity.
I mean, this is Circe's mother.
No idea why she's so shy about all of this though.
>>
>>4051300
>I doubt Hecate personally took away Circe's divinity.
No, she stole the position of "Goddess of Magic". According to her account Hecate's cult wiped out her own.
>No idea why she's so shy about all of this though.
If I had to guess? She's weak because nobody remembers her and she's actually close to losing her own godhood.
>>
>>4051311
Anon, you're forgetting that Circe had her divinity taken away after what she did to Scylla.
At that point she wasn't a Goddess of Magic anyway.
Hecate didn't steal the position either. She was always *the* Goddess of Magic, it's just that she taught the mortals to use magic with Circe.
But Hecate's cult wiped out Circe's cult BECAUSE CIRCE WASN'T A GODDESS ANYMORE.
Totally justified.
>She's weak because nobody remembers her and she's actually close to losing her own godhood.
Not really how things are supposed to work at all in INS, anon.
At all.
There's always the possibility that she's simply very good at controlling her energy.
We'll soon find out anyway.
>>
>>4051314
Anon.
It's a joke.
>There's always the possibility that she's simply very good at controlling her energy.
That doesn't explain why she's so scared of us.
>Not really how things are supposed to work at all in INS, anon.
Do you have a better explanation? Considering...
• Hecate shouldn't be incapable of fighting since Circe is a very capable combatant with magic and Hecate should be much better as a goddess.
• Hecate is scared of us for some reason.
• Hecate was waiting to be summoned by her cult, and didn't want to go back to the Reverse Side.
• Hecate feels even weaker than Futodoki.
>>
>>4051325
>Hecate feels even weaker than Futodoki.
An amendment: Hecate feels weaker than most other Servants we've seen and demands less energy than Futodoki.
>>
>>4051325
>>Do you have a better explanation? Considering...
>There's always the possibility that she's simply very good at controlling her energy.
I already gave you a possible reason.
But fine

>• Hecate feels even weaker than Futodoki.
We're giving her less energy than what we're giving Futodoki, she doesn't feel weaker.
In fact, she's got the same magical signature as a weak Servant, so she's more likely around the magical energy level of Tsubaki or Matsuda than she is our cat.
>• Hecate was waiting to be summoned by her cult, and didn't want to go back to the Reverse Side.
I don't think many of the Gods want to stay stuck in the Reverse Side so your point is? She's not exactly a human hating phantasmal beast. Gods and Goddesses tend to thrive on humanity.
>• Hecate is scared of us for some reason.
No idea on this one, maybe it's the terrifying red eyes or the potential connection to Angra we've got going.
Or that she was expecting to be summoned by a bunch of her followers and instead got a real tall guy pointing at her with a sword.
>• Hecate shouldn't be incapable of fighting since Circe is a very capable combatant with magic and Hecate should be much better as a goddess.
Has she fought yet?
We don't know what the situation is here in regards to her strength.

And on the topic of strength, don't forget that if Hecate is a real Divine Spirit brought to our side of the world, she should likely have some way to draw on Gaia itself for energy.
More Enkidu's Enuma Elish than it would be Leyline drawing.

Who knows, maybe it's a test in it's own way

A Divine Spirit shouldn't simply cease to be a high class Nature Spirit because nobody actively worships them.
>>
Where did everyone go?
>>
>>4051155
>[ ] "I summoned forth a being from the Realm of Imaginary Numbers to serve me. What is it of value that you can do, that I should keep you in this world?"
>>
>>4051155
>>[ ] "Before we discuss that, I'd like to know why you're so frightened of returning to the Reverse Side."
>>[ ] "You seem to have suspiciously little magical energy for a goddess, 'Hecate'. You wouldn't be lying to me about your identity for some reason, would you?"
>>
>>4051155
>[ ] "Before we discuss that, I'd like to know why you're so frightened of returning to the Reverse Side."
>[ ] "You seem to have suspiciously little magical energy for a goddess, 'Hecate'. You wouldn't be lying to me about your identity for some reason, would you?"
>>
>>4051333
>In fact, she's got the same magical signature as a weak Servant,
No. We know she feels weaker than most Servants. That's not the same as feeling like a weak Servant, and definitely doesn't say who that list includes.
>I don't think many of the Gods want to stay stuck in the Reverse Side
Maybe, but most gods wouldn't lower themselves to begging a human either. >>4051314
>She was always *the* Goddess of Magic,
Not according to Circe.
>>
We should start answering her earlier questions, e.g.
>My name is Alberich, although explaining what I am is a bit of a longer conversation we can leave it at that for now.
> The sword you saw earlier doubles as a tool that can summon beings from the realm of imaginary numbers, and that’s what I used to call you here
> I did the same for the nekomata you see right here. Say hello, Futodoki. The actual process is a bit random so I’m a little surprised you managed to show up rather than a phantasmal beast
> Does the phrase Holy Grail War mean anything to you? If not this might take a while. And don’t fret I was expecting someone in a support role so I won’t send you to the frontlines if you’re not comfortable with that.
> Could you explain why you’re taking so little magical energy to function? Are you just a really efficient user or were you lying about your identity.

Unrelated note, Hecate should be Ayaka’s new mommy.
>>
>>4051619
>Unrelated note, Hecate should be Ayaka’s new mommy.
Maybe Hecate should just adopt everyone.
...I wonder what she thinks of healthy young Christian men voiced by Nakata Jouji.
>>
>>4051629
>healthy young Christian men voiced by Nakata Jouji
...huh?
>>
>>4051653
ok, how did I fuck up this time
because judas can't in good conscience be a jew after everything that happened
and he's voiced by nakata jouji
>>
>>4051663
Oh, Judas. Right.
It's not that you fucked up, I just didn't make the connection. I didn't think of it. He's dead and a soul fragment inside your spirit, and I wouldn't really call him young, so it didn't occur to me that you would be talking about him.
Can Nakata Jouji even voice a young man? He's got a real middle-aged voice, you know?
>>
>>4051591
>Not according to Circe
Circe is just salty she managed to ruin her own life. Hecate is older than Circe is on account of literally being her mother.
So therefore, she was *the* Goddess of Magic and Circe would've been a lesser Goddess.
Then Circe was no longer a Goddess so Hecate's cult destroyed Circe's.

Anyway, we can likely get a powerful blessing from her, and I realised why she feels so weak right now and also maybe why she's so submissive.
She is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts and necromancy.

Now it stands to reason a night/moon Goddess during the day wouldn't be at the peak of their power, no?
>>
>>4051591
>Maybe, but most gods wouldn't lower themselves to begging a human either
Alberich isn't a human though.
He's an exceptionally powerful conceptual being.
And Hecate has interacted with humans before, unlike our cat, so she knows what they should roughly be.
Her fear obviously wasn't directed at our sword.

And if my moon/night theory is correct, that's possibly the reason why she's like this.
>>
>>4051850
>Hecate is older than Circe is on account of literally being her mother.
Sure about that? The family tree that places Circe as Medea's aunt says Perse is her mother. Did Sweets ever say it was Hecate?
>>
>>4051910
The connection to Medea still exists because of Helios though.

Besides, it's more narratively appealing to use the version of the myth where they share a relation anyway.
>>
>>4051926
>it's more narratively appealing
Seems like a weird dynamic to me. Such a scared person being Circe's mother. Plus I think Circe would mention it when she told us her story if they were family.
>>
>>4052058
>Such a scared person being Circe's mother.
Heroic Spirits can afford to be reckless.
If Hecate is in fact the true Hecate then death here might actually kill her for real.
Besides, we'll find out more about her soon enough.
There's a possibility that she's putting on an act and is just better at deception than Circe too.
Gods are tricky beings.

And Circe is the sort to omit any information she wouldn't want us to know.
Her whole desire of revenge really loses it's edge if it was just a parent disciplining her child.
It's not like Circe ever learnt her lesson either. She kept being an awful person even with most of her power stripped from her.
Maybe they would've reinstated her divinity eventually if she just stopped being terrible and transforming everyone she saw into animals for no reason whenever she saw anyone.
This is the same ex-Goddess that once tried to transform us and later went on to turn Yumigawa's parents into birds.
Even post death she didn't learn anything.

Circe is really a bird brain.
>>
Why are you frightened, and how have you come to be so weak?
>>4051160
>>4051300
>>4051489
>>4051529

What merit is there in keeping you here?
>>4051385

Unless we have some more votes in the late afternoon, it seems we are decided. Just to keep you folks informed, I plan to start writing around 7:00pm or 8:00pm PST today, so will hopefully have the update done between then and midnight.
>>
Can she actually do anything for us that one of our allies can't already? Feels kind of pointless, especially for such a good roll.
>>
>>4052894
Anon, for gods sake.
We summon a literal actual Goddess and you start questioning her uses before we even know what she can do.
As a Goddess, she should be able to provide us with her blessing.
Now, how useful do you think a Blessing from a Magic Goddess would be for us?

I'm hoping A/A+ rank Magical Energy and A+ rank Magic Resistance if we get a blessing from her.
Potentially even an ability beyond a straight rank up to our already existing abilities too.
>>
>>4052914
>As a Goddess, she should be able to provide us with her blessing.
Affections of the Goddess?
>>
>>4052917
Maybe!
Though it might be a different form of it.
It wouldn't exactly be brought about by love.
>>
>>4052914
she could be Aqua3...
I hope she's not Aqua3...
>>
>>4052951
She's totally Aqua.
>>
>>4052954
I refuse to believe that this goddess would be that useless.
>>
>>4052961
please don't be useless, please don't be useless
>>
>>4052961
Search your feelings, Kz0W, you know it to be true
>>
>>4053004
I mean, if she is useless it's a free upgrade.
>>
>>4053005
If she were truly an Aqua type, she would've hyped herself up more.
We'll soon see the true merit of keeping a Goddess by our side I hope.
I mean
Come on.
It's a Goddess, something must be going on here to weaken her.
>>
>>4053013
>If she were truly an Aqua type, she would've hyped herself up more.
Well, pointing a sword at her seems to have put a damper on that.
>>
>>4053013
>"At last! My followers, you've returned me to the world of-" her words cut off abruptly as she lays eyes on you, the blade outstretched before her, and her surroundings. Fear as intense as her joy of a moment before suffuses her countenance, and she lets out a terrified squeak while taking a rapid step back
>>4053025
agreed
she seemed as if she was about to hype herself up at first until she noticed the sword
>>
>>4052951
>Aqua3
Who would 2 be then?
>>
>>4053227
rinanna
>>
"Perhaps," you reply, leveling a piercing gaze at the woman, "but before we discuss that, I would like to know more about your circumstances. Why is it that you're so reluctant to return to the Reverse Side, and how did it come to be that I feel from you, a self-proclaimed goddess, so little magical energy? You wouldn't be attempting to lie to me, I hope."

Faced with this demand for further explanation, Hecate appears still further crestfallen. Her long ears lose their energy, drooping limply over flower-colored locks so at odds with her morose countenance, and she once more breathes out a long sigh. "I can answer your questions, sir," she says, "but the best way to explain the answer would be to tell you my story, and it is a long and sad one. I don't think I could stand the telling while kept a prisoner here, standing before an unknown interrogator in this stone chamber. Can't we go to some place where we can be more comfortable, and can't you tell me who you are, and where I am?"

"Hm!" you scoff. "Fine evasion to buy time for a lie, maybe; but very well, I suppose I may as well humor you. Follow me, and I'll find a place where you can sit down and recover your composure. You certainly do seem far too distraught to tell me any kind of coherent story now." So saying, you turn on your heel and depart the room, with Futodoki following at your heels and Hecate trailing behind. To save time, and ensure that none of the manor's other inhabitants have the opportunity of laying eyes on this newly summoned creature before you have a clear idea of her standing, you decide to turn right, rather than left, and progress further into the basement rather than out of it. As you do so, you explain without turning to the woman behind you, "I'd rather not have you calling me 'sir' continuously, so if it puts you at ease I'll share my name with you to the same degree you informed me of yours. I am Alberich, and it is indeed by my magic that you've been brought here. Further particulars can wait until I've heard your story, and determined whether or not to keep you in this world."
>>
So saying, you conduct Hecate to the room where Arturia was lately a prisoner, for adorned as it is with a couch and chair as well as the privacy you require it should serve as an ideal place for her to recount her tale. Still, your consideration of the woman's feelings only goes so far; not wanting to seat yourself in the stone prisoner's chair you take your seat at one end of the short couch, forcing Hecate to choose between the opposite end or the uncomfortable seat prepared for Arturia. Upon following you into the room, Hecate examines the furniture only briefly before, in spite of her manifest fear of you, she sits tentatively down on the sofa across from you. Indeed, as she reclines against the red velvet cushions of the antique seat such an expression of happiness flickers across her face that for the moment it is visible there she appears as if blissfully enjoying some rare luxury. That expression is soon replaced by her habitual fright, however, under your coolly scrutinizing glance.

"The story, then, Hecate," you prompt, "of why you fear to return to the company of your fellow gods, and how it is that you can have so little presence."

"Uuuuuu..." At this reminder, a low moan escapes Hecate's lips, and tear trickles from the corner of one of her eyes. "The more I think of it, the more horrible it seems," she tells you despairingly. "The indignity... the injustice... Oh, Alberich, I assure you that no goddess was ever so pitiful as I am now. You must have mercy on me and not send me back to the Realm of the Gods!"

"That remains to be seen," you say irritably, noting her continued evasion. "For the moment, explain yourself to me!"

"Yes," she answers, sniffling pitifully, "Alright, just a moment." At last, though, she launches into her explanation with a question, asking, "How familiar are you with the end of the Gods' power, and with the origin of human magic?"

"Familiar enough," you answer. "I wasn't there to see the events myself, but I know at least the common knowledge: that in ancient times the Gods held power over the earth and taught magic to humanity, but that eventually this power waned, the Gods retreated to the Reverse Side of the World, and mankind was forced to pursue magic unguided."
>>
"Just so!" A slight smile touches Hecate's lips at this appropriate answer. "Well, you see, I was one of those who taught magic to the ancient humans, together with another Olympian, a relation of mine who was then so close to me that I thought of her sometimes more as a sister than a cousin." At this remembrance Hecate's expression grows warm and she trails off for a moment, giving you time to consider her statement. If she refers to Circe, who spoke of being one of two Goddesses of Magic, the incongruity of their attitudes seems strange; the animosity is all on Circe's side. Then there's the matter of her being a relation, another detail Circe had never mentioned; but then, you believe Yumigawa read somewhere that all Greek gods were related to one another, so that shouldn't be too surprising.

Hecate's pause lasts only a moment, however, before she amends, "But she doesn't come into this story. We parted ways before my misfortunes began. It was only after we Gods fled to our new world that my fate became soured. We had lost our power, while mankind was ascendant, and... and..." Here she breaks off again, cut off by another despairing moan and sniffling. Observing her own disarray, he draws a handkerchief from a hitherto unseen pocked in the folds of her dress and dabs at her eyes and cheeks, drying the tears which continue to flow slowly, one by one, from her eyes as she recalls the circumstances that affect her so.

"I was blamed," she finally finishes in a low tone. "As the Goddess of Magic, it was said that I was responsible for making mankind powerful enough to displace the Gods, and I had to be punished." Sobbing, she continues, "I was stripped of my p-power, m-my titles, and even my f-f-form! I was turned into the lowest kind of Goddess, one of Hera's domestic servants, asked to forget a-all the veneration I'd received before and devote eternity to menial tasks for her! Even my animal was taken from me! Look!" Overcome with emotion, Hecate reaches up a quaking hand and pulls at the end of one of her ears, pointing it out to you by the action. "The animal associated with my worship was once the dog. Noble hunters, loyal pets, friends to mankind, guardians of boundaries, respectful of the moon; all these make dogs worthy creatures! But th-they said... they said a dog wasn't fitting for a... for a... for a..." Again, after three attempts, the goddess breaks off her words to moan pitifully and wipe her eyes with her handkerchief. "For a f-flighty, stupid, treacherous idiot like me!" she finally manages. "So it was decided that the rabbit would be my animal from then on, and I'd have the characteristics of one to match."

"So, that's your story, is it?" you ask. "A goddess lowered by the resentment of her peers. How intriguing."
>>
Hecate gives you an aggrieved look, insisting with frustration, "It's so unfair, Alberich! All I wanted was to make people happy; to share some of our power with the humans! Was that so awful?" Then, with entreaty in her eyes, she continues softly, "It's been thousands of years since then, and my only hope, all this time, has been for my followers in the world of mankind to summon me out of that world. Now you finally have! Don't send me back there, please! I beg of you!"

>[ ] She's appealed to your emotions well, but that alone is insufficient. Demand to know what she can do for you, before you consider whether to keep her.

>[ ] Ask Hecate something else, or say something to her. (Write in)

>[ ] Of course Hecate can stay! Despite her weakening, you're certain she'll have something worthwhile to do, and you can hardly ignore a Goddess in need.

>[ ] Send her back to the Realm of Imaginary Numbers. You have no use for Goddesses who've been reduced to powerlessness.

>[ ] Do something else. (Write in)
>>
>>4053318
>[ ] Of course Hecate can stay! Despite her weakening, you're certain she'll have something worthwhile to do, and you can hardly ignore a Goddess in need.
Poor Hecate.
We really summoned the real deal, but she's had it just as bad as Circe if not worse.
Circe got off lightly.
Blame the Magic Goddess, great idea guys.
Maybe the two of them can make up over this.
>>
>>4053318
>[X] Of course Hecate can stay! Despite her weakening, you're certain she'll have something worthwhile to do, and you can hardly ignore a Goddess in need.
In the meantime, we should focus on pulling another summon from the Realm of Imaginary Waifus (a cat is fine too).
>>
>>4053318
>[ ] Of course Hecate can stay! Despite her weakening, you're certain she'll have something worthwhile to do, and you can hardly ignore a Goddess in need.
I guess Olympians being assholes is a universal constant. We need to team up with Odin and enact a final solution.
>>
>>4053379
Can we just not allow the Olympians back if we restart the Age of Gods?
Maybe Hecate can be a Goddess of Magic again, but the majority are assholes.
I mean, blaming the Magic Goddess? Really?
Why not blame Demeter for being a fertility goddess then?
It was always the quantity of humans that got to be the problem.
Not so much the quality.

Ishtar didn't get blamed for shit and she fucked EVERYTHING up with the Gilgamesh situation.

Now we just need to figure out how we're going to get Circe not to immediately jump on the chance to kill Hecate once and for all.
At least Hecate will be happy to see a familiar face, though Circe won't share the feeling, I imagine.
Circe should probably count herself lucky.
She got to live in luxury without her divinity while Hecate despite keeping hers was reduced to a servant performing menial tasks.
A fate Circe would have shared if not for the loss of her divinity.
>>
>>4053393
>A fate Circe would have shared if not for the loss of her divinity.
And her death too. She really dodged a bullet by moving to the Throne of Heroes.
>>
>>4053428
Yeah, now the problem is getting Circe to see things that way.
Maybe the two of them can become friends again and plot to become the Goddesses of Magic once more if Circe can get over her misgivings.

Can you imagine actually being a Hecate cultist in the modern era, finally summoning your Goddess and getting a scared and weak bunny girl instead of the powerful Goddess of Magic you expected?

Your entire life has been leading up to this point, nay, the work of thousands of years has been leading up to it.
You are finally the one to bring your Goddess back to the world, expecting a grand reward for dedication stretching back millenia...
aaaaand she's been turned into a divine maid.

Might as well just fucking kill yourself at that point.
Everything was for nothing and your family should have spent the time trying to reach the Root instead.
>>
Actually, can we bring up Circe to Hecate as well?
I feel like that just letting the two of them walk into each other unaware will be quite the disaster waiting to happen.
Especially if Hecate doesn't know about Circe's animosity toward her.
>>
>>4053393
>Ishtar didn't get blamed for shit and she fucked EVERYTHING up with the Gilgamesh situation.
Speaking of:
>"From the beginning, I only manifested in this place because of the power I left in this world."
>"Power?"
>"Yes, the blessing I bestowed upon this world."
>"...?"
>I'm here because I blessed the world.
>"You see, when that disrespectful king insulted me and that junk threw the divine beast's entrails at me, I burned a blessing into the world, dissolving myself within the Human Order, always waiting.
>"If one day, 'those two' were to meet again on this planet..."
>Before the miracle found within the infinite possibilities, the being calling herself a goddess smiled so beautifully it froze the beholder's heart.
>"I would exert all my divinity, all my soul - to protect humans."
As of SF Volume 6, Ishtar left a contingency for the event of Gilgamesh and Enkidu meeting again, allowing a piece of her will manifest to protect mankind from them.
>>
>>4053447
We probably should.
So what's the write-in going to be?
>[ ] "Before we leave this dungeon, I must warn you that your cousin, Circe, has come to reside in this manor -- I shall explain how later, but for the moment you must hide your presence until I speak with her."
>>
>>4053448
But that doesn't even make any sense!
Gods being able to just manifest whenever they want if they fulfil CONDITIONS OF THEIR OWN CREATION totally removes the whole point of the Age of Gods ending!
>>
>>4053459
Well...
It's not so much manifesting as possessing the Lesser Grail.
But that doesn't placate you at all, does it?
>>
>>4053462
>The thing that entered this body is a simple program. I think as this body was prepared as the final terminal to receive the power of the holy grail, using it as a sacrificial shrine maiden and then overwriting it was simple."
>>
>>4053462
Not at all, really.
How convenient that her conditions to protect humanity would only come into play if it was both Gilgamesh AND Enkidu around.

And not just Gilgamesh.
Or Gilgamesh actually trying to wipe out most of humanity.
Because things would've really taken a strange turn if she just straight up possessed Iri/Loli Rin or Rin/Illya in the fourth or fifth wars.

If they can summon themselves into the bodies of people even thousands of years after the Age of Gods ended, then I don't see why they haven't just forced a reversion to the Age of Gods.

>>4053457
Yeah, add this to my vote in addition to the general acceptance of her staying around.
>>
>>4053318
So, to summarize, I'm changing my vote in >>4053379 to
>[ ] Of course Hecate can stay! Despite her weakening, you're certain she'll have something worthwhile to do, and you can hardly ignore a Goddess in need.
>[ ] "Before we leave this dungeon, I must warn you that your cousin, Circe, has come to reside in this manor -- I shall explain how later, but for the moment you must hide your presence until I speak with her."
and so is the other anon
>>
>>4053318
>[ ] Of course Hecate can stay! Despite her weakening, you're certain she'll have something worthwhile to do, and you can hardly ignore a Goddess in need.
>[ ] "Before we leave this dungeon, I must warn you that your cousin, Circe, has come to reside in this manor -- I shall explain how later, but for the moment you must hide your presence until I speak with her."

Seems like the best way to avoid a Greek tragedy.
>>
>>4050515
I'm this anon by the way.
>>
I hope Circe and Hecate do become good friends with each other again.
I think both of them could do with an ally.
>>
>>4053318
>>[ ] Of course Hecate can stay! Despite her weakening, you're certain she'll have something worthwhile to do, and you can hardly ignore a Goddess in need.
>>[ ] "Before we leave this dungeon, I must warn you that your cousin, Circe, has come to reside in this manor -- I shall explain how later, but for the moment you must hide your presence until I speak with her."

So we really summoned someone who might really be useless...
>>
I want to headpat this ill-fortuned goddess.

Also it sure is convenient Hecate speaks perfect Japanese, huh?
>>
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>>4053800
>Also it sure is convenient Hecate speaks perfect Japanese, huh?
>Odin also speaks perfect Japanese
Convenient... or conspiracy?
>>
>>4053802
Odin got given knowledge of all modern language as a side effect of the grail summoning.

Hecate... should not have that.
>>
>>4053805
OK, but what about my surprise witness, Futodoki?
>>
>>4053807
His species originates from Japan.
>>
>>4053810
Ancient Japan. At best he should know some antiquated dialects.
>>
>>4053813
>Ancient Japan
A few hundred years.
Phantasmal beasts didn't go the same time the Gods did.
>>
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>>4053800
>>4053802
>>4053805
>>
>>4053817
Consider also that both of these individuals hail from a world wholly cut off from the Realm of Real Numbers, where language has most likely evolved over time in a course contrary to that it has taken here. A world, moreover, where the basic numerical foundations of physical science are so different that without the intercession of Heiligöffnungschwert's miracle you are unable to perceive these beings as they truly are.
The point I'm making is that your sword translates their words the same way it translates their appearances.
>>
>>4053800
Japanese is the default language.
>>
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>>4053842
>>
>>4053393
>Ishtar didn't get blamed for shit and she fucked EVERYTHING up with the Gilgamesh situation.
Well, Ishtar was always a spoiled daddy's girl, princess of the gods. If Aphrodite or Athena were the goddess of magic, things would obviously be different, but Hecate...
Well, you know what her situation was from myths or you'll learn it in the quest in time.

>>4053472
>>How convenient that her conditions to protect humanity would only come into play if it was both Gilgamesh AND Enkidu around.
I'd guess that's because protecting humanity is a ridiculous excuse from a goddess who treated humans as garbage, and her actual reason is to continue her grudge against Gilgamesh and Enkidu.
>>
>>4053890
It's still quite funny that she would've been totally justified in having Guggalanna slap Gil about in the fourth or fifth war but SF Gil is actually on best behaviour for once.
It's still silly that Gods can simply mess with the Age of Man like that though.
Wouldn't it have been simpler to have made it so the curse that wrecked Enkidu would occur whenever he met Gilgamesh?

>Well, you know what her situation was from myths
Conflicting?
None of these myths seem to agree on anything.

Oh well, now all we need to do is summon Medea.
>>
>>4053787
Remember, your roll is tied to the rarity of the individual you summon, not necessarily their power.

>>4053393
>Can we just not allow the Olympians back if we restart the Age of Gods?
You don't really want to ignore the most fun species of God, do you?
>>
Just out of curiosity, how strong would necromancy be?
I think the only example we have of an actual necromancer is Mordred's master in Apocrypha, and he doesn't do a lot of necromancy besides making heart bombs or something
>>
>>4054139
Every god is equally rare though. There's one of each.
>>
>>4054174
Precisely. Your previous roll didn't summon a God, after all.
>>
>roll 997
>expect something useful
>get useless and unneeded drain on mana
Hrrm.
She better have *something* she can do otherwise I won't bother to stop Circe from murdering her.
>>
>>4054180
Where would something like Cerberus be on the table, 950ish? Not exactly god level but unless my mythology-fu is weak there's also only one of him right
>>
>>4054300
Cerberus is one example of a species of phantasmal beast which could be summoned with an SR roll.
>>
>>4053318
>[ ] She's appealed to your emotions well, but that alone is insufficient. Demand to know what she can do for you, before you consider whether to keep her.
>>
Does anyone else feel sort of bad for Circe? I think she's suffered enough for her bullshit and reconnecting with her to the point where we're at least friendly to her seems reasonable.
>>
>>4053318
>[ ] She's appealed to your emotions well, but that alone is insufficient. Demand to know what she can do for you, before you consider whether to keep her.
We already have a maid.
>>
Are we in another damn three way tie?
>>
>>4054331
No I don't think so.
>>4054311
She's hardly suffered at all. She lived a blessed life as both Immortal and Mortal. Her suffering is very small scale compared to *literally almost any actual Heroic Spirit*
She's acted dumb as a Servant though and reaped what she sowed.
But she doesn't even come close to Cu in terms of suffering.
Or hell, Scathach's story is basically a more tragic version of Circe's except she didn't deserve it and gets to never die despite wanting to.

Hecate is still *technically* a Goddess so hopefully she can grant us Affections of the Goddess or something for saving her.
That would turn Alberich into an A+ Parameter murder machine.
Matsuda would get absolutely flattened.
Shame it doesn't by default apply to Mana too. That B could definitely deal with being improved so we stop causing Ayaka to faint.
Course that is only for Achilles' version so it might work differently.
Not like Achilles mother wasn't an incredibly minor Goddess herself.
Hell, his fame outstrips her by a hundredfold.

But I doubt it's going to work out so well for us.

Would be nice to finally not have to worry about our stats too much against Odin.
Or hell, Matsuda, even.
Especially with how many Servant sacrifices we seem to be passing up.
Even Rider might end up getting spared now for Medusa Lily.
>>
Idea: have Hecate become an Idol in order to gain more strength as a Goddess from the worship she receives...
>>
>>4054352
And that's how Part 3 just ended up as Fate: iDOLM@STER.
>>
>>4054272
>letting Circe murder our free upgrade
Anon...
>>
>>4054360
>using her as an upgrade.
Wasteful.
We either try getting AotG from her and keep her around or we have Circe transform her into a Mystic Code.

I'd much prefer Affections though.
Alberich would be a pretty monstrous Servant with a full rank up to his physical parameters.

And the Idol thing does have at least some merit.
Gods/Goddesses become more powerful from the worship of humans, so worst case we can have her as an investment till we can make her powerful again.
>>
>>4054344
>That B could definitely deal with being improved so we stop causing Ayaka to faint.
That's not a problem now that we're hooked up to Lily, is it?
>>
>>4054454
Yes. There's no reason it won't be a problem until we actually incarnate.
We haven't linked ourself to Lily as a Servant would link themselves to a Master.
For one thing, that would require us to break things off with Ayaka, and for another it would mean somebody would have an infinite number of commands to use on us.
Waifu or not, I don't want us in that position.
>>
>>4054331
No, there's a clear majority. I've just been working today, so I haven't written yet. I'll probably be more or less on the same schedule as last night.
>>
By the way, if any of you has any VA suggestions for Hecate, I'd love to read them.
I have one idea in mind already, but I'm not decided and I'd be happy to know what you think she sounds like based on these first interactions...
>>
>>4054377
>we have Circe transform her into a Mystic Code.
you mean like that time Medea turned Shirou into a wand?
>And the Idol thing does have at least some merit.
We could use an idol unit to start brainwashing the masses by putting hypnotic suggestions on their songs when we start our world conquest.
I'm sure a goddess will be 1-Very glad to start being worshiped like one again; 2-Very willing to go that far to get more worshipers
>>
>>4054528
ive got a Nitocris vibe. very bulliable
>>
>>4054532
So who's really idolatable other than Hecate?
>>
>>4054532
>you mean like that time Medea turned Shirou into a wand?
Yeah.
I think that a Goddess would be a pretty high quality ingredient for a Mystic Code, even a weakened one like Hecate.
Though I don't really think that we should do that unless she actually does something to deserve it.
I'd much rather get the possible power boost from Affection.
It's just so good for us if we get our stats up to A+ Strength, A Endurance and A+ Agility. We would utterly crush Shirou and Medusa and dealing with Assassin's tricks would only be easier.
It also means we are free to use our next proper upgrade on the NP armour.

It would also make me far more confident about the upcoming Odin fight.
And unless Matsuda has been really bullshitting up his unqiue skill, he'll go down with ease.

>Greek Goddess Idol group
>actual reason to try to bring Stheno and Euryale back from Medusa Lily
Good lord, it's the perfect plan.
Circe, Hecate, Medusa, Stheno and Euryale.
Just need to get Circe some measure of Divinity back.

But yes, I think at this point Hecate would be willing to go to any length for worship.
Even though her powers have mostly been taken from her, she should still be an excellent teacher of magic, no?
Especially in regards to the Realm of Imaginary Numbers and the Imaginary Element.
She could be of excellent use in quizzing about parts of Vaisset' notes we can't understand.

Man, we have lots of potential upgrades from this single bit of down time
>Predatory Charisma
>Possible Affections of the Goddess
>Magic buff through Vaisset' research.
The magic buff would also be very useful for dealing with Matsuda, his spear can dispel imaginary numbers, but I wonder how it would serve if we simply coated a battlefield in thin stone pillars.
Good luck using your spear to it's full potential there, asshole.

>>4054528
A bullied goddess hmm?
I'll have to think on that one.
>>
You also might want to update the Status Pages for Adelheid and Circe, Sweets.
Pretty sure Yumigawa isn't either's master.

Simpler times...
>>
Ok here's the plan. Futodoki can conceal and chat with Hecate for a little while. When either Ayaka or Circe gets up (whichever is first) the next phase activates. We can kill time by explaining what the Grail War is to our newest fren.
1) Circe wakes up -- we find a way to break the news to her and make sure she's nice to her old fren
2) We introduce Hecate to Ayaka and try to get them to be frens. Hecate can be Ayaka's mommy-teacher.

We can also have a lesson/evaluation with Circe to see how to best branch out our magical ability's skill-tree to help ease tensions.
>>
>>4054628
Now that you mention it, Hecate and Ayaka may in fact be our first two allies that actually get along.

Hooray!
>>
>>4054636
Hecate should get along with everyone other than Circe pretty well, since she has no history with them.
>>
>>4054640
Yeah, but as far as we can tell, Hecate is one of those Goddesses that actually likes humans.
She might be able to get along with our allies, but she might actually become a friend to Ayaka.
Like, she genuinely did something to help them out.
She might even like modern magi.

As for Ayaka, in a way, Hecate ought to be grateful to her.
If not for her, the whole Judas situation would've never come to pass considering that it was a compatibility summon from her (I think.)
>>
Sorry, folks. I've been trying to dial back my Tuesday and Thursday work to get updates 7 days a week, and I've had some success as you've observed, but it doesn't look like tonight is one of those times. I'll try to get something written before work tomorrow morning so you're not left waiting all day, though...
>>
Greek God Idol Group when?

Give us Affections Hecate you useless goddess.
Or you'll never make it as an idol.
On account of being dead.
>>
>>4055163
Good to know the music industry is the same as it's always been.
>>
>>4055225
What can I say?
It's cutthroat work, being on top of the competition.
Literally, in this case.

A weak rabbit maid goddess that can't even bestow a blessing is worthless!
>>
>>4055228
You know, we probably can't get Affections without being at least a little bit nice to her.
>>
>>4055237
True enough.
Headpats for the dumb bunny it is.
Predatory Charisma should be useful when dealing with the poor girl.

We've already saved her and are her best bet in her becoming a powerful Goddess once again.
We've even got a reunion with Circe for her.
It's going to be sad if the two can't make up after all that's happened.

Between Circe, Hecate and Medusa we've really got a lot of (ex)Goddesses that hate Goddesses around.
>>
>>4055240
Hecate's still a goddess technically, just a shitty one.
>>
>>4055246
That's why I put (ex) in brackets.
If she weren't still a Goddess there would be no hope in getting Affections from her.
As it stands, to become absolutely top tier as a Servant all we need to do is be kind to this girl who's been abused for millennia.
Even sitting on a sofa was something she seemed to consider a luxury.

If we got affections and then applied Achilles' invulnerability to our armour, We'd completely be able to slap him about in a rematch, he'd only be a little faster than us.

It might be awkward having to bind him so we can lend Hecate our sword to stab him with though.

Alberich with affections applied to him should have decent odds against even the strongest Servants.
Heracles would be stomped due to Heilig basically dealing infinite cutting damage so the Godhand resistance buff couldn't aid against it after a resurrection.
>>
>>4055253
>That's why I put (ex) in brackets.
ah
>If we got affections and then applied Achilles' invulnerability to our armour, We'd completely be able to slap him about in a rematch, he'd only be a little faster than us.
Don't forget Mind's Eye: B or he'll find more gaps in the armour. I swear, finding gaps in armour is his second NP.
>It might be awkward having to bind him so we can lend Hecate our sword to stab him with though.
how will that help us adopt him into the family
>Heracles would be stomped due to Heilig basically dealing infinite cutting damage so the Godhand resistance buff couldn't aid against it after a resurrection.
God Hand only ups resistance against attacks, no buffs there. We really are the worst possible matchup for Heracles.
>>
>>4055264
I mean a rematch with Achilles where with comparable stats, we would crush him he'd be a little faster with A++ agility but we would have A+ agility ourselves with Affections.
The only problem is not being able to put him down for good unless we loaned Hecate our sword to kill him.

Against Matsuda, with Affections, we will be the faster fighter by a whole +.
A NP armour is also not something that can be foiled by going after a gap unless there is a specific weakness (Armour of Fafnir)
Girugamesh and Karna's armours have no such flaws to them.
Then there's the fact that since our last encounter, not only would strength and agility both have raised an entire rank, but our Endurance by one and a half ranks.
In addition to having Battle Continuation A.

Matsuda simply could not put us down.
We could probably treat him like a child if all goes to plan.

God Hand gives a resistance buff to whatever kills Herc
Seeing as Heilig is effectively infinitely sharp, nothing would help Berserker there.
Even if Heracles had Madness Enhancement activate (his shown stats are WITHOUT madness), he'd still hardly be a threat.
>>
>>4055278
>I mean a rematch with Achilles
...I don't know why I was thinking of Matsuda.
>>
>>4055282
Yes, especially as Matsuda wouldn't be a danger to us at all as things are now.
Not unless he's suddenly asspulled his way to meme tier parameters.
I doubt he's that much stronger since our last encounter, if at all.
>>
>>4055240
>Predatory Charisma should be useful when dealing with the poor girl.
In her case it's a bit of a double-edged sword, what with the whole 'rabbit' thing.
>>
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>>4055383
>what with the whole 'rabbit' thing
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>>4055383
>the whole 'rabbit' thing
Nothing doubled about this edge.
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>>4055278
>he'd be a little faster with A++ agility
Doesn't each + double the stat?
>>
>>4055410
In this quest, plus modifiers are rank-ups.
>>
>>4055391
Nope. Read the skill description and you'll see that Predatory Charisma refers to the charm of a dangerous person. For someone easily frightened, like Hecate, this isn't without its drawbacks.

>>4055412
Not so. A rank of A++ is equal to four times the potency of Rank A. Half-ranks are denoted with a -.
If a stat lower than A is adorned with a +, it means that the stat can be equal to double its letter value under certain circumstances.
>>
"Very well," you say, giving the Goddess a gallant smile of reassurance and taking one of her trembling hands in yours. "I'm not the sort of heartless man to send a woman so obviously in need away. If you fear a return to Hera's household, you may remain in mine."

"Thank you, Alberich, for heeding my request," she replies, an overjoyed expression sweeping over her face like the rays of the morning sun. No sooner has she become immersed in this joy, however, than it fades as she takes in her surroundings once more a look of growing uncertainty. "But what sort of home is it you have here?" she asks. "Do you live all in underground chambers like this? And, how is it that you summoned me? For what purpose?"

It seems, you think wryly, that fright is still the woman's primary motivator despite the improvement in her control over herself since the fright she had upon being summoned. It would be well, then, to put her mind more at ease before attempting to derive any value from her presence. With this in mind, you explain, "No, we are only in the basement level at the moment. Above us is the manor, and although I'm sure it won't match the luxury of life among the Gods, it is furnished with all the proper amenities. Before we ascend, however, I'd like to acquaint you with your situation. To begin with your summoning, it is really quite simple. I have, in the form of the sword you saw me holding when you first appeared, an artifact which can call beings forth from the Reverse Side of the World and sustain your existences here. I've once before to summon a familiar, and after my success with Futodoki I decided to repeat the exercise. Thus, you appeared."

Having thus suggested the presence the cat, you indicate him to Hecate with an open hand, hoping that he'll take the moment to introduce himself. The Goddess, however, far from simply observing your first familiar as you'd expected, goes stiff once more with fear, seeming to recede into the corner of the couch and gasping, "Ah! A cat sidhe! Get away!"

"Cat sidhe?" Futodoki snaps, highly offended from the sound of it. "Are you blind, woman? Do you see a patch of white on my chest? I'm a nekomata, which should be obvious to anyone with eyes from my tails!" The said limbs are swishing back and forth rapidly as he speaks, giving further vent to his anger at this confusion of terms.

"Ah!" Hecate blinks several times, looking intently at Futodoki. "So you... are, yes," she confesses. Nonetheless, despite the clarification of his nature, the goddess seems utterly repelled by the cat, staying as far from him as is possible without climbing over the back of the couch. Futodoki, you can see clearly, notes the woman's fright with offense.
>>
"My apologies for the start you've received," you say, trying to intercede and make peace. "I suppose I ought to have introduced Futodoki to you earlier, but I had no idea he'd have this sort of effect on you. I should tell you, though, that there is one more surprise waiting for you here." You're glad the thought came to mind; after having seen the way Hecate reacted to Futodoki, you really don't know what she'd have done if she discovered her "relation" without prior notice.

"Oh?" Hecate attempts to return her gaze to you, although her eyes can't help flicking back to Futodoki from time to time. "What do you mean?"

"Only that your cousin, Circe has come to reside in this manor. I'll explain the circumstances later, but for the moment I must ask that you hide your presence and wait here until I've spoken with her of your arrival." So saying, you get to your feet to go. Hecate, for her part, appears dumbstruck by the announcement, and so it's without a reply that you make your exit, Futodoki on your heels. In a few moments you've crossed the room, left the startled Goddess behind, and are ascending the stairs leading to the ground floor of the manor; considering as you do so where Circe might be, and how best to reveal the matter to her. Presumably, you decide, she will have remained in Liliesviel's bedroom. It is there, after all, that the girl took her last night, and since you haven't seen her in the house this morning you've no reason to expect her to have departed. As for what to say to her about Hecate, the matter is more delicate. You'll explain her summoning, of course, but after that...

>[ ] Give the two Goddesses some time alone to talk over their history and become reacquainted with one another, unencumbered by the prying eyes of a master who may depress their happy reunion.

>[ ] Ask Circe to explain the circumstances of the Holy Grail War to Hecate and help you determine how best the new arrival can contribute to your cause.

>[ ] Simply explain Hecate's summoning and observe what Circe wishes to do, though mediating if matters should become unpleasant.

>[ ] Forbid Circe to speak to Hecate, for fear that she may further unbalance the woman's delicate state of fright.

>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)
>>
As promised, here's a short morning update that's made me slightly late for work! Enjoy! I'll be back this evening to write from what you've decided!
>>
>>4055538
>[ ] Simply explain Hecate's summoning and observe what Circe wishes to do, though mediating if matters should become unpleasant.
Hmm.
>>
>>4055538
>[ ] Simply explain Hecate's summoning and observe what Circe wishes to do, though mediating if matters should become unpleasant.
>>
>>4055538
>[ ] Simply explain Hecate's summoning and observe what Circe wishes to do, though mediating if matters should become unpleasant.
>>
>>4055410
I think the point is that compared to B agility, A+ Agility compared to his A++ would make things way more tolerable.
And we'd have equal strength to him so being ragdolled by him shouldn't be as much an issue.
We took an A+ punch from Adelheid after all and we were weaker then. (If we do get the theoretical Affections from Hecate.)
EotM should make up for the speed difference anyway.

Affections Alberich too strong.
will bully all non Odin Servants.
Poor Medusa won't stand a chance.
Nor will Matsuda or any of our allied Servants should they turn on us.
If we do get affections, we should just tell the Emiyas to surrender.

If we get affections, I say we test our strength by fighting Adelheid and Alter at the same time in a spar.
We should stomp them individually at that point.

Just need to be acting our least terrifying around the easily startled girl to make her like her savior enough to givethe blessing.
Headpats should have a soothing effect.
We should try headpats.
Headpats for Hecate.
>>
>>4055427
So like if a + means double power, how much is a letter worth? Numerically?
>>
>>4055792
10.
So E equals 10 and A equals 50
So A+ would be 100
A++ would be 200
C+ would be 60 sometimes.

EX means "too high for your dumb numerical scale to cope with"
(Star) means "Purple"
>>
>>4055797
As a quick fun example, if we take these numerical values for Parameters alone...
Alberich = 310
Tsubaki = 280
Matsuda = 160
Saber Alter = 560 (the fucking strong)
Adelheid = 280
Circe = 250
Achilles = 510

Interestingly enough.
>>
>>4055810
EMIYA would be 330 (angry Alberich noises)
While Medusa clocks in at 260.

This is only by taking their parameters and converting them to numbers, it's not exactly a great measure of power.

That being said, F/SN Bahsahkah with ME actually active clocks in at 590.
Because he's the strongest in the world!
>>
>>4055538
>[ ] Ask Circe to explain the circumstances of the Holy Grail War to Hecate and help you determine how best the new arrival can contribute to your cause.
>>
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>>4055752
>Headpats should have a soothing effect.
>We should try headpats.
>Headpats for Hecate.
>>
T_T
The curse has struck...
>>
>>4055933
Uh-oh.
What's up, Sweets?
>>
>>4055940
When I got home today, my computer wouldn't log into my account. It said the user profile service was unable to prepare the profile, or words to that effect. I'm writing from my phone now while I try to figure out how to recover my PC.
>>
>>4055944
Damn.
Having all your notes (and the rest of your PC) wiped sucks.
I know the feeling.
Hopefully you can get it working again.

It doesn't sound like the sort of thing that should've wiped things out though.
Just have to get back in.

And sorry...
"But have you tried turning it off and on again?"
Or booting in Safe Mode?
>>
>>4055952
Yes, I tried restarting normally as well as cutting the power supply and restarting that way.
Booting in safe mode worked, and it looks like my files are mostly present.
I'm currently trying to make a new admin account and port my user data over manually.
>>
>>4055956
Ah
I found a solution
If you boot into Safe Mode with Networking
Go to RegEdit
Click HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE
Click Software
Click Microsoft
Then Windows NT
Then CurrentVersion
Then Profile List
The problem should be that two files have the same name.
Remove the .bak from the bottom one amd apply it to the one above
Then click the bottom one and change the values of State and Refcount to 0

This is what a YouTube video is saying anyway.
>>
>>4055969
Oh!
You need to right click and run RegEdit as an admin too.
>>
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Sweets? Sweets?! SWEEEEEEEEEEEEETS!!!
>>
>>4055969
Interesting. Like I said, I'm following a different process at the moment, but I'll keep this one in mind. Restoring my old account instead of having to come to grips with a new one would be excellent.
>>4056005
Sorry for going silent.
>>
>>4055538
>[ ] Simply explain Hecate's summoning and observe what Circe wishes to do, though mediating if matters should become unpleasant.
>>
>>4055538
>[ ] Simply explain Hecate's summoning and observe what Circe wishes to do, though mediating if matters should become unpleasant.

This could get dicey.
>>
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Ah, Sweets.
You are incorrect about that Parameter thing, by the way.
It doesn't multiply the plus.

Unless you modified that for this quest.
A++ is 50+50+50
not 50x2x2.

I believe this diagram is from Complete Mats 3
>>
>>4056253
He uses a modified system, as the idea of C++ being greater than A is as offensive to him as it is to all sane people.
>>
>>4056264
>Not so. A rank of A++ is equal to four times the potency of Rank A. Half-ranks are denoted with a -.
>If a stat lower than A is adorned with a +, it means that the stat can be equal to double its letter value under certain circumstances.
His own words.
Stats lower than A with + rank modifiers only come into play in specific circumstances

That's why Gay Bulge being B+ when thrown is really fucking impressive.
>>
Hey there, folks.
I'm back on my computer finally. Nothing I was able to do could restore my profile, so ultimately I just made a fresh one.
Notes, documents, images etc. are all saved, it's just program configuration that was lost.
>>
>>4056281
Glad to hear it.
>>
>>4056281
good to know the curse has not taken its tow on you Sweets
>>
>>4056303
>>4056312
Yeah, it's definitely not as bad as it could be.
>>
>>4056332
>tempting fate
Why tho
>>
>>4056264
It is an offensive idea, true.
Unfortunately, it's also canon. I make the best of it that I can.
>>
>>4055538
>[ ] Simply explain Hecate's summoning and observe what Circe wishes to do, though mediating if matters should become unpleasant
Be nice, Circe!
>>
>>4056349
You didn't address the discrepancy in your parameter system to the canon one though.
>>
>>4056523
That discrepancy, you see, arose as a result of a misunderstanding on my part; so it's not so easily resolved as the other. I'm faced with the difficult problem of whether to break with canon in this (admittedly rather semantic) detail or to rewrite the status sheets that include ++.
>>
Sorry, folks. I've been writing, but haven't gotten tonight's update finished yet; and since I have an early morning tomorrow, I really have to turn in.
I'll get an update finished tomorrow afternoon, you have my promise; and hopefully we can get to a 2-3 update per day pace on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday to make some speedier progress through Alberich's day off.
In the meantime, thanks again for the well wishes regarding my computer, and good luck with sorting things out between Hecate and Circe; I was really quite shocked that this option won!
>>
>>4056892
>I was really quite shocked that this option won!
Circe needs a friend she can relate to that she isn't plotting against.
Hecate needs somebody, anybody, to be nice to her.
We need Hecate alive so we can get Affections.
It's a win win win.

>>4056581
Just keep it as it is.
It really shouldn't matter either way whether A++ = 3xA or 4xA
Especially because if you go through and "fix" things then the entire Achilles fight is retconned into ridiculousness where he'd still have almost 4x and our speed and 3x Rider's when fighting us the second time.

In canon, nobody gets A+++ Parameters.
Nobody except a single guy.
The highest physical Parameters I can see (not counting EX) are Gorgon and Asterios with A++ STR and END.
And those two are literal monsters that bypass all the limits of humanity.


I mean seriously.
The ONLY A+++ ranked parameter I can see is Goetia with his NP.
Why would parameters like this even matter anyway?
>>
>>4057035
>The highest physical Parameters I can see (not counting EX) are Gorgon and Asterios with A++ STR and END.
Yagyu Munenori has A++ AGI. I'm pretty sure this is just for his NP, though, not a constant value.
>>
>>4057035
>the entire Achilles fight is retconned into ridiculousness
Wasn't he only slow enough to fight because of the rank down from cybele?
>>
>>4057293
Yes, and that Rank Down from A++ in Sweet's mind took him from 200 to 100.
However, it would've actually only taken him down from A+++ to A++ which means that he would still have an equivalent value of 150.
Meaning he still should've utterly crushed Alberich, Emiya and Medusa, even with the Cybele rank down.

Alberich at the time was working with B rank agility, so 40. Medusa has A, so 50, and Emiya is only barely Servant level, so we'll give him an E and 10.

You see the problem that extra 50 points would create, I hope.
>>
>>4057302
You know, when you put it that way I really feel the fight should've been harder than it was.
Ah, well. What's done is done.
>>
>>4057412
Achilles shouldn't actually have A+++ anyway though, so It's fine.
Madness Enhancement would only bring him to A++ from applying ME to his normal parameters.
So giving him A+++ would require an extra rank-up appearing from out of nowhere.

Saber Alter canonically only has A++ Magical Energy.
And Excalibur is canonically only an A++ NP.

Really, the only character that might need their parameters changing is Odin with Gungnir to A+++.

Basically, nobody should ever really have A+++.

In ALL of FGO, they had the restraint to only ever give Solomon (and Goetia puppeting his body) an A+++ Parameter, and Solomon is arguably the strongest Servant of all.
>>
>>4057424
>Achilles shouldn't actually have A+++ anyway though, so It's fine.
No, I mean that when you write out the numeric comparison of B to A+ it feels like he still should've wiped the floor with the three of you, and it should've been a fight where you had to devise some kind of a plan instead of taking him on directly.
But, like I said, what's done is done. Maybe I should've had him lose Affections in exchange for Madness, or something.
>Solomon is arguably the strongest Servant of all
Arguably. I still feel that his being so powerful compared with other heroic spirits makes very little sense given the breadth of myths out there. Then again, I level the same complaint at the whole Grand system, so there's really no helping FGO's canon in my view.
>>
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>>4057433
>it feels like he still should've wiped the floor with the three of you
I mean, it's less ridiculous than EMIYA taking on Heracles, who with his own Madness Enhancement activated also has A+ Agility to EMIYA's B and still killing him what was it... 6 times?
But I don't know if Heracles even had Madness active for that fight. Illya had a bad tendency of keeping it off for reasons.

AND Heracles has EotM (False) Making up a lot of the skill difference.

IIRC, Heracles in FGO is supposedly so strong that Cardboard-kun can't even activate his ME without fainting, nevermind Godhand. So Heracles is stuck with his ME-less FSN stats
It's quite fun that his Status Page is always just completely wrong because of this.

>so there's really no helping FGO's canon in my view.
Nasu likes wanking Christianity, what can you do?
>Jesus was the First Magician
It hurts so much.
>>
You really shouldn't be putting any stock in letter rankings meant to give a vauge sense of abilities in a visual novel. It's like stand stats, it all falls apart if you think about it for more than a few minutes.
>>
>>4057494
Yeah.
This too.
Servant Parameters never meant anything.
Not really.
They exist to be ignored.
>>
Sure got quiet in here.
>>
>>4058053
Hi
Guess we're suffering powerlevel fatigue.
I am at least.

So we need to introduce Hecate to Ayaka next, and then to Odin for fun times to be had.

Can we also ask Lily about the magic she uses because she's never had much opportunity to use it yet so we have next to no idea what it does.
>>
>>4058166
>So we need to introduce Hecate to Ayaka next
Oh absolutely, we need to actually have somebody in the house Ayaka likes instead of what we've currently got going.

>and then to Odin
>"Can I join your pantheon please?"

>Can we also ask Lily about the magic she uses
It's advanced Transference, to the point she can move souls about.
>>
>>4058053
qst isn't a fast board, there's zero danger of us being bumped off the thread list before the qm comes back

unless you're just kinda sitting there hitting update every now and then
>>
I was bored today and am not fatigued because of powerlevels, so I made this


Servant Assassin

Master: Shijou Ayaka (Anne-Marie Vaisset)
True Name: Alberich
Sex: Male
Height: 6'
Weight: 79KG
Alignment: Neutral Evil

Strength: A
Endurance: A+
Agility: A++
Magical Energy: B
Luck: B
Noble Phantasm: A

Class Abilities:
Presence Concealment: A+
Hides one's presence as a Servant. Suitable for spying.
Once Assassin has erased his presence, it is almost impossible to find him. However, the rank of presence concealment drops substantially in combat.

Personal Skills:
Conceptual Biology: A+
A body radically altered by the empowerment of the Silver Grail and Akeldama, an idea of new heroism forced on the world by arcane ritual. In addition to functioning physically on a level far beyond that of a human, numerous changes to Assassin's internal workings have occurred which enable him to function without certain biological necessities an entirely material creature would require. Consequently he can remain quite unseen even in front of an enemy's eyes.
Due to this inhuman biology, Assassin is easily able to hide his presence and processes, as a consequence, he is incapable of being harmed by poisoned or enchanted food, healed by a tonic appearing to be ordinary liquor, or experiencing other similar circumstances.
Conceptually, he is a Servant despite not being a Heroic Spirit; a living existence empowered to fill the class container, rather than a dead one constrained by it.

Mind's Eye (True): B
The "combat tactics" which are the mark of an experienced and stoic fighter. Assassin is capable of calm analysis of battle conditions even when in danger and can deduce an appropriate course of action to triumph over a given predicament.

Predatory Charisma: C
At times the appeal of a dangerous rebel, at others the refinement of an older gentleman; the charisma associated with a natural predator appears in any society. This represents the natural talent to lead, command, and manipulate, focused through Assassin's particular approach to humanity. Whether Assassin is truly capable of becoming a legendary Machiavellian manipulator or statesman is uncertain, but his experiences have demonstrated him to be an outstanding leader on a small scale. Assassin's charisma is enhanced when attempting to persuade or court women, and further so if the other party appears particularly youthful.

Magic: C-
Skill in orthodox magic. Although he possesses only the knowledge of an apprentice, Assassin compensates with the large quantity of mystic energy at his disposal.

Noble Phantasm:
The Gate of Void, Kenótis:
Rank A Anti-World Noble Phantasm. A black cloak covering the entirety of Assassin's body, being able to be stretched onto various surfaces seemingly endlessly, functioning as a portal to the world of his origin and element, Imaginary Numbers. What passes through it does not return.
>>
>>4058282
Why are his physical parameters so damn high.
>>
>>4058284
I took Titania's parameters as a primary reference and though Assassins need to be fast
>>
>>4058284
Its also my first time doing this servant sheet thing and I've been listening for 3 hours non-stop to the same im@s song, I don't expect my sanity to last
>>
>>4058299
You took the parameters of the version of Alberich that is far stronger than any other version from the get-go?

Why?
>>
Hey there, folks. Just wanted to let you know I'm working on the update now.
>>4058282
Very nice! I've tweaked it a bit to be more in line with how I see the situation of Assassin Alberich if he'd progressed to the same point in the War you have and gained the appropriate powerups.
>>4058304
Which song?
>>
Servant Assassin

Master: Shijou Ayaka (Anne-Marie Vaisset)
True Name: Alberich
Sex: Male
Height: 6'
Weight: 79KG
Alignment: Neutral Evil

Strength: D
Endurance: B
Agility: A++
Magical Energy: B
Luck: B
Noble Phantasm: A

Class Abilities:
Presence Concealment: A+
Hides one's presence as a Servant. Suitable for spying.
Once Assassin has erased his presence, it is almost impossible to find him. However, the rank of presence concealment drops substantially in combat.

Personal Skills:
Conceptual Biology: A+
A body radically altered by the empowerment of the Silver Grail and Akeldama, an idea of new heroism forced on the world by arcane ritual. In addition to functioning physically on a level far beyond that of a human, numerous changes to Assassin's internal workings have occurred which enable him to function without certain biological necessities an entirely material creature would require. This aids Assassin's subterfuge in a variety of ways, such as the total suppression of his breath or the beating of his heart.
Due to this inhuman biology, Assassin processes that which affects him according to its concept, and as such is incapable of being harmed by poisoned or enchanted food, healed by a tonic appearing to be ordinary liquor, or experiencing other similar circumstances.
Fundamentally he is a Servant despite not being a Heroic Spirit; a living existence empowered to fill the class container, rather than a dead one constrained by it.

Mind's Eye (True): B
The "combat tactics" which are the mark of an experienced and stoic fighter. Assassin is capable of calm analysis of battle conditions even when in danger and can deduce an appropriate course of action to triumph over a given predicament.

Predatory Charisma: C
At times the appeal of a dangerous rebel, at others the refinement of an older gentleman; the charisma associated with a natural predator appears in any society. This represents the natural talent to lead, command, and manipulate, focused through Assassin's particular approach to humanity. Whether Assassin is truly capable of becoming a legendary Machiavellian manipulator or statesman is uncertain, but his experiences have demonstrated him to be an outstanding leader on a small scale. Assassin's charisma is enhanced when attempting to persuade or court women, and further so if the other party appears particularly youthful.

Magic: C-
Skill in orthodox magic. Although he possesses only the knowledge of an apprentice, Assassin compensates with the large quantity of mystic energy at his disposal.

Noble Phantasm:
The Gate of Void, Kenótis:
Rank A Anti-World Noble Phantasm. A black cloak covering the entirety of Assassin's body which responds to his will and seems able to expand its surface area without limit, Kenótis functions as a portal to the world of his origin and element, Imaginary Numbers. What passes through it does not return.
>>
>>4058282
>Strength: A
>Endurance: A+
>Agility: A++
>Magical Energy: B
>Luck: B
>Noble Phantasm: A
Strength: C
Endurance: D
Agility: A
Magical Energy: B
Luck: B
Noble Phantasm: A
>>
>>4058305
>Why?
sanity is wavering
>>4058313
>Very nice! I've tweaked it a bit to be more in line with how I see the situation of Assassin Alberich if he'd progressed to the same point in the War you have and gained the appropriate powerups.
thanks
>Which song?
Mio Honda-Step!
>>
>>4058314
>Those stats
Jesus Christ.
Now let's see what happens if we just add some Affections to the mix (which can't happen for Assassin because no Heilig)
>Strength: C
>Endurance: A
>Agility: A+++
>Magical Energy: B
>Luck: B
>Noble Phantasm: A

The *Teleports behind you* Servant has arrived.
>>
>>4058327
In order to get there you'd have to start with:
Strength: E
Endurance: E
Agility: D
though.
>>
>>4058314
Oh, oops. I meant to delete the second + on Agility. Assassinberich should have Agility: A+ before getting Affections, just like Berserchilles.
>>
Speaking of im@s, here's some music in honor of our newest heroine!
https://youtu.be/Mgvi459KhZ0
>>
>>4058314
I don't know, man. Where's his Knight's Tactics?
>>
>>4058380
He's not a knight.
>>
>>4058386
>Assassin Alberich makes the best use of Kenótis, wearing it as a full mantle and combining it with Presence Concealment and Knight's Tactics.
Eh, you're free to backtrack though.
>>
>>4058395
Ehhhhhhh?
This is what happens when I write things at the drop of a hat without really thinking...
Good thing he doesn't exist. He'd definitely be more consistent if he were a real character.
>>
>>4058398
Maybe you could lean into that kind of thing with his conceptual nature somehow, relate it to the unformed and shifting nature of ideas left unexamined.
>>
Given Circe's still-uncertain reaction to Liliesviel's orders, as well as the tempestuous volatility of your own recent interactions with the Servant, you ultimately decide that to attempt to direct her behavior toward Hecate would be largely pointless, if not actively detrimental. Accordingly, you'll simply explain the new Goddess's summoning and let Circe direct her own actions, observing and mediating if necessary. It would be well, of course, if the two former colleagues resumed their ancient closeness, and assuming that Hecate's fondness for Circe wasn't feigned you can be sure the will is there on her side. As for Circe, however, the matter is more doubtful. On the one hand, the words of condemnation she once spoke regarding Hecate expressed a heartfelt indignation, or even hatred; on the other, the punishment Hecate has received at the hands of her fellow Olympians seems austere enough that it ought to satisfy Circe's resentment at the divergence of the two Goddesses' fortunes. Which impulse will take dominance, you muse, remains to be seen.

As you're contemplating these points, you make your ascent through the house, exiting the basement before proceeding up the main stairwell from the ground floor to the third, where Liliesviel's bedroom sits adjacent to your own. A few sharp raps on the door bring to your ears the soft sound of bare feet on the floor and then, to your satisfaction at your accurate prediction, Circe pokes her head out.

"Eh? Alberich? What do you want?" Her mind evidently still somewhat fogged by sleep, Circe blinks several times as she regards you with surprise. From her tone, the question isn't asked so much from hostility as the union of curiosity and an early-morning absentmindedness that leads her to forget herself.

"Do I need a reason to visit my former Servant?" you ask with a grin. "Come now, don't keep me waiting out in the hall. Invite me in, and let's talk for a while."

"If you like," Circe replies, as with a nod she steps back from the door to comply with your forceful request. As you follow her into the bedroom, you observe that Circe's diminished height, which you'd originally taken for the result of her bending over to look through the door, is in fact due to the absence of the high platform shoes she's accustomed to wear. The showy gold headdress which typically adorns her forehead is absent as well, you note, so that the Servant is this morning dressed only in the white skirt and vest which form the principal articles of her typical outfit. "So," she says, interrupting your consideration as she hops up to sit on the side of Liliesviel's bed and address you, "what would you like to talk about?" With a curiously dim gaze and lifeless tone she adds, "I hope you aren't going to make me listen to stories about your love affair."
>>
"You... know about last night, then?" you ask, wrong-footed by the sudden shift of topic from the subject of your present thoughts to earlier ones. You suppress a flush, too, as Circe's words bring to mind what sort of story you could tell her.

"Hmph!" Circe pouts, crossing her arms. "I wasn't watching you two, if that's what you're implying; but I knew why Liliesviel went to your bedroom, and since she didn't come back crying it's plain enough to see how well you two carried off your happy partnership." These last words are dripping with an acid sarcasm that makes it plain she's anything but happy to acknowledge your romantic success.

"In that case, I won't bore you by saying any more about it," you answer shortly, provoked by Circe's unpleasantness on a subject that has been, up until now, purely a happy one for you. "But tell me, how are you getting on with your new Master? She spoke of getting to know one another last night. Have you become the sort of female friends who whisper romantic secrets to one another, then?"

"Oh! Serving that girl is awful!" Circe exclaims, tossing her hair to emphasize the point. "To be forced to obey the commands of a modern magus," she spits. "I can hardly say how mortified I am! To make matters worse, last night she made me tell her my whole life story, right up until you gave me to her, just so she could 'understand the proper context'. If it weren't you asking me to serve her, I'd be planning how to take my revenge right now."

"Then the loyalty you show me is to be appreciated," you reply with a placating smile. "I'll speak to Liliesviel about your complaints, and find out whether there's any way to make you happier in your position. I do hope we can find a way for the two of you to look at one another with friendly regard, you know." With that bit of diplomacy out of the way, you move on to the primary topic of conversation that's brought you to this room. "Here's a subject which ought to cheer you a bit more, though," you say. "I've just summoned a very peculiar entity from the Reverse Side of the World: your old colleague, Hecate."

"What?!" Circe leaps to her feet, shocked utterly by this statement. "Hecate? How did you do something like that?"

"Ah, I haven't told you," you reply half to yourself, nodding. "My Noble Phantasm, Heiligöffnungschwert, has many uses, one of which is to summon and sustain creatures from the Realm of Imaginary Numbers, particularly that region of it which is known as the Reverse Side of the World: phantasmal beasts, and things of that nature. On this occasion, though, I seem to have brought a Goddess back into the world!" You shrug your shoulders in token of the mysterious nature of your blade's summoning going on, "Knowing her past relationship with you, and for how long the two of you have been apart, I thought you would like to meet her as quickly as possible."
>>
"Absolutely! Take me to her right away!" Circe insists with an almost feverish intensity. "You don't know how long I've waited for this, Alberich," she adds in a softer tone. "To meet that selfish traitor again..."

This may, you conclude, become something of a disaster. Circe's anger at Hecate seems just as you remember seeing it within the Akeldama. Still, you've already resolved to introduce the two and can hardly back out now to avoid a scene; and Hecate's sorrowful past may yet mollify the angry woman. "In that case, follow me," you say. "She's in the basement at the moment."

As the two of you walk through the halls and stairwell back down to the manor's lower reaches, you add to Circe, "I think I should mention to you that Hecate probably isn't as you remember her. She seems to have suffered a great deal in the time since the Age of Gods, and to have become rather weak."

"I doubt it," Circe replies, sounding more as if she flatly denies any possibility of such being the case than as if her words represent any feeling as uncertain as doubt. "If someone like Hecate is appealing to your sympathy, you can be sure it's some trick or scheme to take advantage of you." Seeing how determined Circe is to think the worst of Hecate you let this last comment pass without reply, and the two of you move in silence as you descend to the basement and make for the cell where you left the newly summoned rabbit-eared Goddess.

There, as you round the corner and enter the room, you're immediately treated to a shocking sight. Hecate, clutching one of the couch cushions to her considerable bosom as if embracing a beloved pet, is stretched out along the length of the sofa and rolling back and forth as if to extract all possible enjoyment from the cushions and velvet. You observe this bizarre paroxysm of happiness for a few moments before Hecate, in the midst of her motions, happens to catch sight of you. Immediately the happy expression on her face freezes, her ears point straight up from her head, and her limbs go stiff; this last promptly results in her falling off the couch and landing face-down on the stone floor. After lying there for a second or two, the rabbit-eared woman at last manages to push herself up onto her knees, and then get to her feet, regarding the both of you with a pained, teary-eyed expression.

"Uuuuuu..." she moans. "You could have told me you'd come..."

Circe stands frozen, staring at the woman with an expression of utter, thunderstruck disbelief, throughout this comic moment, before it all finally seems to hit her at once. Whereupon she points an accusatory finger at Hecate and, with a furious tone, cries, "Just who are you?"
>>
>[ ] Interesting question. Let 'Hecate' try to get herself out of the situation, and see if any new information comes to light.

>[ ] Tell Circe that this is the Hecate of whom you spoke, and ask her why she didn't recognize her.

>[ ] Recount Hecate's story of punishment to Circe, offering that as an explanation for any discrepancies she might notice.

>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)
>>
>>4058898
>>[ ] Recount Hecate's story of punishment to Circe, offering that as an explanation for any discrepancies she might notice.
>>
>>4058898
>[ ] Recount Hecate's story of punishment to Circe, offering that as an explanation for any discrepancies she might notice.
>>
Yeah, that was about how I expected things to start.
Hecate has been deprived of luxury for at least a couple of millennia now. So even this couch is something far more than what she's been granted during her time being forced into servitude.

Even Circe blaming her for the degradation of magic doesn't hold much water anymore, considering that she was blamed for exactly the opposite and stripped of her power by the other Gods for doing *too good* a job.

Still, to finally come face to face with Hecate, the Goddess Circe no doubt remembers as a powerful prideful figure acting so shamelessly would be enough to shake anyone.
The woman she wished to take revenge on has already been killed. Worn away by millennia of slavery, she's effectively no longer even the same goddess she was.

Also, headpats for her.
She deserves headpats.

Now, the question lies in how Circe will take being informed of just what happened to her fellow Ex Goddess of Magic.
Will she be angry at how the other gods effectively enslaved Hecate for teaching humanity magic, a fate she would have shared had they not stripped her of her own divinity? Will she mock her for the fate she has received? Forgive her for her past transgressions against her?

Between the two of them, it's obvious that poor Hecate has suffered far more and it was far more unjust a punishment.
Circe was punished for her jealous rage towards another.
Hecate was punished simply because she wanted to help humanity out.

Well, hopefully we can get both Hecate and Circe their statuses as dual Goddesses of Magic back.
>>
>>4058334
>Assassinberich should have Agility: A+ before getting Affections
So it is possible...
Hecate, I can offer you a one time deal to become new best girl, but you need to act fast!
>>
>>4058898
>[ ] Recount Hecate's story of punishment to Circe, offering that as an explanation for any discrepancies she might notice.

Is the way to go as it allows us to dictate the pace.
>>
>>4059057
>So it is possible...
What, to become an Assassin? Not without help from outside.
>>
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>>4059057
You could even call it...
A Hec of a deal!
>>
>>4059073
I meant getting Affections.
We need to calm down this easily startled rabbit and make her a few new(old?) friends. Reconnecting her and Circe should go a long way towards our relationship with her.
We're already her saviour too.

Having her grant the blessing of a Goddess to us should be possible.
A pity she's not the powerful Goddess she once was.

Orion's actual Affections from Artemis is so powerful it's activation makes him a One Man Army and drastically strengthens him.
It's literally an Anti-Army (Self) NP!

Oh well.
We'll just have to take what we can get.
B rank Affections would make us more than strong enough alone.
>>
>>4058898
>[ ] Recount Hecate's story of punishment to Circe, offering that as an explanation for any discrepancies she might notice.
>>
File deleted.
>>4059119
>I meant getting Affections.
Not without outside help.
>>
>>4059124
>file deleted
Huh?
Also yes, we have a LITERAL GODDESS to give us affections now.
She's been demoted to a lesser Goddess, but a goddess is still a goddess and should thus be able to bestow her blessings upon us.
Also she's really really terribly indebted to us.
We saved her.
>>
File: doomp ze poetree meed.png (654 KB, 581x581)
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>>4059130
>Huh?
Yeah, I got the eye color wrong.
>>
>>4059139
Why have you done this.

God I hope we get Affections by the time our day off is over.
I want to get revenge on Matsuda with the A+ speed Affections should get us.
His flicky spear skills will be no match for somebody literally twice his speed and 5 times stronger and more durable than him.
We could literally dispel Heilig and take him on without a weapon in order to show him just who the eldest and most powerful of the three siblings is.
He shouldn't have managed to improve really in the past few days. Maybe a rank up to one of his non EotM personal skills.

Honestly, I'm not sure if he can even deal a conclusively fatal blow to us now. His only hope would be decapitation. Lily and Circe would heal us of anything short of death.

I'm thinking Matsuda should be the youngest.
Tsubaki is a good girl mostly, who hasn't tried to impale us with a spear. I wonder if she would enjoy being a Master.

We should have Circe make us one of those regen potions so we can cheat a heal during a fight if we need to.
>>
>>4058898
>[ ] Recount Hecate's story of punishment to Circe, offering that as an explanation for any discrepancies she might notice.
>>4059139
This is cursed beyond belief
>>4059176
>Tsubaki is a good girl
The Noble Phantasms Korakuhime, what do they do?!?!!?!?!?
>We should have Circe make us one of those regen potions so we can cheat a heal during a fight if we need to.
Should be the standard for every servant fight we get into now
>>
>>4059176
>We should have Circe make us one of those regen potions so we can cheat a heal during a fight if we need to.
We had to sleep for hours for that to work though. And we can regen now with just energy. So why?
>>
>>4059241
>We had to sleep for hours for that to work though
I mean, that was before we became a conceptual being. I'm hoping personally that the healing is accelerated by that.
And that was for an entire limb.
A conceptual being drinking a potion of healing should hopefully apply it's effects quicker than to a human.
As for our ability to regenerate normally, it's not a feasible action to take during a fight.
As seen by Matsuda trying to death by a thousand cuts us.
Imagine if we just immediately healed any damage he managed to get on us.
>>
>>4059490
>so that he is incapable of being harmed by poisoned or enchanted food, healed by a tonic appearing to be ordinary liquor, or experiencing other similar circumstances.
this shouldn't be applying to Circe's healing juice r-right?
>>
>>4059670
No it just means the healing tonic needs to be in a bottle that clearly looks like a healing tonic and if there's instead poison in the the healing tonic, nothing happens.

Basically it means that we're effectively totally immune to poison unless we chug down a bottle of poison.
And that spiking our drink won't work.
Not sure how it would react to poison arrows though, one would hope that it would only register the attack as being struck by an arrow, rather than the consumption of poison.

He'd be immune to a lot of Shuten Doji's shit.
Could touch Hassan of Serenity too.
>>
>>4059139
This is... baffling.

>>4059490
If you start carrying around a healing potion to chug mid-battle, things may get dark.

>>4059677
>Could touch Hassan of Serenity too.
Sorry, but she's like a poisonous frog.
>>
>>4059738
>Sorry, but she's like a poisonous frog.
I don't think that's the case at all here, Sweets.
It's not that she exudes actual poison, it's that her skin and bodily fluids are all poisonous.

Conceptually, skin, blood, sweat and breath aren't supposed to act as poisons.
So I don't see how Serenity would be able to bypass Conceptual Biology.
I mean, not that she would want to bypass a poison immunity skill.
At all.
>>
You can't stop me from wanting the poison assassin waifu.
>>
>>4059738
>If you start carrying around a healing potion to chug mid-battle, things may get dark.

I refuse to negotiate with terrorists Sweets, even if it's you.
>>
>>4059738
>things may get dark
... Souls?
>>
>>4059754
I was referring to her coloration; that hair is a warning.

>>4060273
I guess you'll just have to test her and find out whether Conceptual Biology protects you or not.

>>4060350
Don't come crying to me when it's your 43rd Tiger Dojo in a week.

>>4060369
That was the joke, yes.
>>
>>4060392
>I was referring to her coloration; that hair is a warning.
Would we just die if we touched Sakura?
Or Rider?
Damn...
Also, she's a shape-shifter, you know, so hair colour is irrelevant.
>I guess you'll just have to test her and find out whether Conceptual Biology protects you or not.
There's really no reason it shouldn't based on what you've told us about it. Purple isn't a colour traditionally associated with poison. Royalty or Nobility, sure. But poison? Come on, that just sounds like you're looking for a way out.

Damn, Shirou better not figure out our weakness is a sword with "+1 Sword of Alberich Slaying" written on it with a sharpie, otherwise we're in for a real problem.
>>
Despite the shocked, indignant, and plainly hostile tone of Circe's question, Hecate doesn't respond with anger of her own. Indeed, her reaction is so at odds with Circe's as to take you completely by surprise. As Hecate recognizes her interrogator her eyes fill with tears, and at the same moment a radiant smile spreads across her face.

"Circe-chan!" she exclaims, in a voice overflowing with happiness and affection. "You're alive! How can this be? I thought you lost forever, dead with the expiration of the Age of Gods!" With these words, she opens her arms in invitation of an embrace.

Circe remains firmly rooted to the spot, however. Only her eyes move in response to Hecate's proffered affection, and the expression with which she glares at the rabbit-eared woman's outstretched arms is one of profound disdain. "I guess you're the woman pretending to be Hecate, then," she concludes, in a voice lacking the faintest semblance of the affection with which Hecate filled her own words. "What kind of spirit are you, to make such a ridiculous job of it? Pretending to know me is one thing, but what is this appearance? Are you making fun of her? Of us? Hecate was a haughty, overbearing, proud woman with a glossy black mane of hair and sharp, canine ears and yellow eyes! Do you really think you can stand there with that soft-eyed friendly act and convince me for a second you're her?"

The storm of rebukes Circe unleashes is so furious that you're forced to revise your opinion; obviously Circe does hold some regard for her former colleague, for her to grow so indignant on her behalf. That doesn't improve the impression she makes on Hecate, though, for at every question the terrified woman shrinks back a step in spite of the conversation edge that ought to be granted by her significant advantage in height. Unable to formulate a response, Hecate can only look to you, a pleading expression in her eyes.

"A moment, Circe," you say, laying a hand on the woman's shoulder to restrain her from advancing on Hecate. "You're frightening our guest so much that she can hardly hope to answer you. Fortunately, she explained her circumstances to me earlier, so I can give you the explanation you're looking for."

"Well?" Circe demands, whirling to face you. "Don't tell me you believe her, when it's obvious to see that I know this isn't Hecate!"
>>
"Let's put belief aside for the moment; simply hear out her story, and tell me what you think afterwards," you insist, calming Circe by the force of your gaze. "According to this woman, after the Gods were compelled to retreat from our world to the Realm of Imaginary Numbers, the deities of Olympus were filled with rage, and sought a target for their resentment. Reasoning that without the advancement magic had brought humans they would never have thus been driven away, they settled on Hecate, Goddess thereof, as the target of their revenge. For her treachery in teaching magic to humans, she was stripped of her power and rank, had her beastly aspect changed from a dog to a rabbit, and was made a domestic slave in the house of Hera. This, and the thousands of years she spent in that lifestyle, is no doubt responsible for any change you perceive in her." You pause for a moment, to let the story have its impact on Circe, before adding with a smile to Hecate as you recall what she was doing when you entered, "As well as any strange aspects of her present behavior, I'm sure. Isn't that so, Hecate?"

"Oh, yes!" The summoned goddess agrees readily, nodding with evident gratitude for your explanation. Realizing what 'strange behavior' you're referring to, though, she blushes and hastens to explain, "During my time in Hera's home, I was never allowed to rest on any surface but the stone floor. She had me sleep by the side of her bed, so when she woke in the morning she could have the pleasure of stepping on me rather than the cold stones. When I asked why she did so, she once told me 'Since you used all your energy nourishing those useless lumps of fat on your chest instead of your brain, at least put them to use as my cushions!' and laughed..." As she recounts this new episode of her life in Hera's household, the gratitude fades from Hecate's expression, replaced by a deep self-pity. Once more her ears droop, and large tears begin to fill the corners of her eyes.

"If you are telling the truth," Circe suddenly interjects, "then it's no more than you deserve!" She, you observe, hardly shares in the sympathy you feel for Hecate. Her earlier expression of hostility is now mingled with a satisfied smile, as often adorns the faces of those who glory in another's punishment for some perceived slight. "No punishment could be severe enough for what you did to me! The other Gods were idiots to think of punishing the Goddess of Magic just for teaching humans, but at least in their idiocy they happened to stumble on the chance to give you some proper justice!"
>>
>[ ] Cut Circe's rant off, pointing out that Circe's punishment was justified, while Hecate's was not only groundless but far more severe.

>[ ] Simply wait, and see if Hecate can work up the spine to defend herself.

>[ ] Send Circe away, saying that she may or may not be justified, but you'll not have her in Hecate's presence if she intends only to lambaste the woman.

>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)
>>
>>4060721
>[ ] Simply wait, and see if Hecate can work up the spine to defend herself.
We can't be there to defend her all the time.
>>
Now, it being a Friday night and having some extra time, I'll be back at midnight with the intent of tallying votes and writing another update. Hope you folks are all online!
>>
>>4060721
>[ ] Say something else.
"What exactly did Hecate do to you, Circe, to inspire such animus? It seemed as if she was glad to see you; I wouldn't expect that sort of reaction from the one who wiped out your worshipers."
>>
>>4060721

I like this one >>4060789
Circe needs to air out her grievances here and now so we can get this sorted out right away. Once they have at least a calm truce we can introduce Hecate to Ayaka as an instructor.
>>
>>4060789
+1
We're not going to get anywhere talking past eachother.
>>
>>4060789
+1
I swear if it turns out this all started because Circe lost a mortal she liked to Hecate because the guy favored the magic goddess with the bigger chest..
>>
>>4060789
support this
>>
>>4060789
Supportan
>>
Not much disagreement here. Looks like tomorrow morning's update will be to ask about what Circe's grievance is against Hecate.
>>
Real talk
Can we fucking kill Hera if we ever summon her or otherwise get the chance to do so?
She's such a fucking cunt Jesus Christ.
Or if we can get Hecate or Circe as powerful enough goddesses again, we could reverse what she did to Hecate.
Hecate is still divine so worship should empower her.

We'll do Heracles a solid.
>>
>>4061421
>Can we fucking kill Hera if we ever summon her or otherwise get the chance to do so?
hera too stronk
>>
>>4061435
Seeing as we're planning on killing Odin, I fail to see the problem.
Hera will be exterminated and used as a power-up.
>>
>>4061439
>Seeing as we're planning on killing Odin
Who has been reduced to the power level of a Servant so he could be summoned by the Grail.
actual gods too strong
>>
>>4061452
>actual gods too strong
Not really.
We can just execute Hera before restarting the Age of Gods anyway.

Or we can create a huge cult for Hecate and let her take her own revenge.

Regardless, in a 1 on 1 against a god, somebody like Gilgamesh (who we are aiming to be like) would stomp. Unless said Goddess is on Tiamat's level.

Killing Odin might get us a God Slayer skill too, to make things even easier.

Additionally, the Einzbern cheated. The Odin they summoned is the Divine Spirit of Odin inhabiting a homunculus body.
He has not been reduced to the level of a Heroic Spirit.

Hera must die.
Then we can summon Heracles later and see how he responds.

God damn it I want this dumb bunny to hurry up and bestow Affections on us so we can clean up the rest of the war before taking on Odin.

Rematch with Matsuda will be such fun with Affections.
Especially if we just grab his spear out of the air.
A+ Agility vs A Agility.

It's been a long time coming for his punishment to occur.
>>
>>4061469
>Not really.
yes really
>The Odin they summoned is the Divine Spirit of Odin inhabiting a homunculus body.
Yes, and this has reduced him to a Servant's level. Do you seriously think anything in the modern era could enable a god to exist? Why do you think they're still in the Reverse Side of the World in the first place?
>A+ Agility vs A Agility.
And how do you plan to get a plus modifier out of Affections of the Goddess?
>>
>>4061497
>yes really
Not really. There's just no Gilgamesh to keep them in line for most pantheons Gugalanna is individually more powerful than a God.
>Do you seriously think anything in the modern era could enable a god to exist?
*laughs in the past 4 updates*
Yes.
Also yes, the Holy Grail can do exactly that. Duh.
>And how do you plan to get a plus modifier out of Affections of the Goddess?
A full rank up to our A- should take it to A+. There's only a half rank difference between A- and A. That's a numerical difference of 5 compared to the 50 of A to A+.
Therefore there shouldn't be a problem with it ranking up to A+
>>
>>4061510
>*laughs in the past 4 updates*
You know that isn't what I meant.
>A full rank up to our A- should take it to A+.
>>4055427
>>
>>4061513
Congratulations for pointing out absolutely fucking nothing.
A full rank up to A would take it to A+
A half rank up to A should also take it to A+. There's no intermediary between A and A+
You can't have A-+.

Affections takes an A to A+ or an A+ to A++
Madness does the same.
>>
>>4061524
>Congratulations for pointing out
That plus modifiers double the rank. Affections increases by one rank, which is different from doubling.
>>
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>>4061528
Embarrassing.
>>
>the year of our lord 2004+16
>people still don't understand how Servant Parameters work
Oh I am laffin
>>
Anyway, if our statline with Affections does end up looking something like
Str: A+
End: A
Agi: A+
Mgc: B
Lck: B
NP: A+

Then Alberich would finally count as a Top Tier servant among the likes of Gil or Karna imo.

He just needs a better Mgc parameter, which Affections doesn't raise.
It would be ideal if we could get it to A or A+ too, honestly.
But unless Hecate manages to grant us A-rank Affections (which is currently unknown and might increase all four parameters), the B-Rank variant doesn't increase Magical Energy.

Also, Agility A+ should make control of our magic that much faster through increased reaction time.
>>
>>4060716
>Since you used all your energy nourishing those useless lumps of fat on your chest instead of your brain, at least put them to use as my cushions!
Hera is flat confirmed. Probably another loli.
>>
>>4061635
>Hera
>Goddess of Marriage and Birth
>also is worst girl who fucked with the coolest Greek Hero because Zeus couldn't restrain his desire to rape.
>a loli
Goddess of HAGS.
Also imagine wasting a decent design on a Goddess who by her very nature would never be romantically interested in anyone other than Zeus.

I bet she looks like Hag Rin.
>>
>>4061635
is this why zeus rapes every woman in his line of sight
>>
>It has been over two millenia since Zeus last raped a mortal.
This is real suffering right here.
>>
>>4061657
Poor guy, has to take it out on nymphs.
>>
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>>4061657
I am now afraid to go to the Reverse Side
>>
>>4061657
>It has been over two millenia since Zeus last raped a mortal.
>>4061660
>I am now afraid to go to the Reverse Side
It will probably be safe as long as we don't find someone with the power to loli, hagmance or anything in between
>>
>>4061684
>>
>>4061660
You should be.
>>
>>4061690
>>4061695
>Avalon (アヴァロン, Avaron?) is the paradise in the Arthurian legends, existing in the Reverse Side of the World at the same coordinates as Britain

>Merlin watches us defeat and alter his little plaything
>Uses his demonic Incubus magic bullshit to plot and deceives us to go the Reverse Side after wishing for the return of the AoTG
>We arrive and go see the Greek Gods and solve the whole Hecate and Circe deal
>Meet Zeus
>Merlin is Zeus' Court Wizard
>Merlin refutes our penis privileges
>Zeus looks at Alberich and starts to droll heavily

this is indeed the worst timeline
>>
>>4061712
>Merlin refutes our penis privileges
And then Conceptual Biology EX kicks in.
>>
>>4061712
>Fairy Queen not so tough after being molested.
>>
>>4061695
>filename
I thought you'd be better than that.
>>
>>4061728
i have a history of letting people down
>>
I can't believe our male Tomoko became Smug Timeline Tomoko.
>>
>>4061916
>Her brother is mostly indifferent.
Sad but true.
>>
>>4061916
>makes several more friends who share common interests
Never gonna happen.
>>
>>4062037
She has her summons.
>>
>>4062037
>>4062039
Oh, and Kikuko.
We're still planning on having Tsubaki make a friend right?

Hecate and Ayaka.
Tsubaki and Kikuko.
Everyone gets a friend!
(Not including Circe unless she forgives Hecate.)
>>
Oh God, I slept for almost twelve hours.
This is a terrible beginning to a Saturday.

>>4061916
Where's the timeline where she discovers eroge and looks at dark and shoujo content? I'd like to see that version of Tomoko.
>>
>>4062050
>Everyone gets a friend!
What about Saber Alter?
>>
>>4062054
No.
>>
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>>4062056
Poor Arturia. Her sword is her only friend.
>>
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>>4062051
>I slept for almost twelve hours.
Imbressive
>>
>>4061916
Gave TOMOYA the TRAP STONE to hold.
...
What's this? TOMOYA is evolving!
...
..
.
Congratulations! Your TOMOYA evolved into DOYAMOKO!

>>4062050
>Kikuko
Common interests: belittling others, smug laughter, hiding inferiority complexes about being short and flat.
>>
>>4062101
>No Matter How I Look at It, It's Angra Mainyu's Fault I'm Not Popular!

>>4062299
I'm sure they will get along splendidly.
Kikuko definitely developed a mean streak within her to match our resident ONEET's from watching all that death take place.

I'd imagine the two would get along really quite well if Kikuko summoned Tsubaki as a servant and they had no prior relationship.
Just need to get past Tsubaki's hatred of humans.

I still really want Kikuko to think that Ogawara was a reverse trap the entire time if she ever meets Kourakuhime.
Bonus points if she recognises Kourakuhime immediately.
>>
At this renewed outburst from Circe, whatever restraint had kept a modicum of composure about Hecate is broken, and the tears pour freely down her cheeks as she moans, "So cruel! How could you say such a thing?"

Before Circe can make another cutting reply, you tighten the grip of your hand on her shoulder to restrain her. The marked contrast between the two women's attitudes is striking, and you'd sooner have an explanation than let them play out their fight to the end. With this in mind, you put a note of steely resolve into a soft voice and demand, "What exactly did Hecate do to you, Circe, to inspire such animus? It seemed as if she was glad to see you; I wouldn't expect that sort of reaction from the one who wiped out your worshipers."

At this, Circe turns a furious gaze on you, looking as if betrayed and opening her mouth to vent her feelings. A look at your cold expression, however, gives her pause; doubtless she's reminded of the position she presently occupies in your regard, momentarily forgotten in the heat of her vehement outburst. Thus checked, she answers in a calmer tone, "I don't know why that woman greeted me so warmly; it's one reason I don't believe she's really Hecate. More likely this woman is some forest nymph, hoping that she can get better treatment from her summoner by taking on a name she doesn't deserve."

"Let's put that suspicion aside for the moment," you say. "Your resentment is clearly meant for the true Hecate. If it's so extreme that you can hear the story of her suffering and only feel satisfaction, then I'd like to hear your reason."

"Wasn't what I told you the first time enough of a reason?" Circe asks, a harsh note of pain in her voice. "Fine, then. I'll tell you the last detail of it; what I held back before. The truth is, Hecate is the one who arranged for me to be cast out in the first place. After that trifling little incident with Glaucus' nymph, Zeus called me to face an assembly of nearly everyone on Olympus, something like one of the criminal trials humans have." As she tells her story, Circe's eyes spark with hatred for her persecutors, and the feathers of her wings involuntarily fluff up in anger. "Hecate was the one who spoke out against me more than anyone. That woman I thought was my dearest friend blew what I'd done out of all proportion, decried my character to all the Gods, told them I was a danger to Olympian dignity, and a thousand other things besides! She was even the one to recommend my exile! I'm sure it was all because of her ambition. She wanted to be the only Goddess of Magic so badly that she had me cast out and my worshipers slaughtered, fed to her temples' sacred dogs! Well, see the reward she's gotten for it!"

"Indeed?" you reply, keeping all emotion out of your voice as you consider the matter. "Why do you suppose she might have spoken to you so kindly, then, if this woman is as dedicated an enemy as you believe?"
>>
"I told you, I don't know!" Circe insists exasperatedly. "It's some scheme of hers, I'm sure. Now that she's been brought low she wants to forget everything to make her own situation easier, perhaps. Maybe she's just trying to give you a good opinion of her by pretending to be the opposite of her real personality." With that she turns on Hecate again, demanding, "Which is it, then? Have you remembered what you did to me now that I've reminded you? Ready to drop the mask, and show us what kind of person you really are?"

Hecate, for her part, only goes on softly weeping. Wavering willow-like, so overcome that she's unable to stand, she supports herself against the sofa and hides most of her face behind the handkerchief she uses to dab incessantly at the tears pouring forth without pause. A few muffled, incoherent fragments of words, choked off by sobs, are the only attempt at a reply she can make through her display of sorrow.

>[ ] Wait dispassionately for Hecate to find her composure and explain herself. After what Circe's said the two Goddesses sound well-suited to one another, and however weak Hecate may seem now you're not inclined to comfort her.

>[ ] You've already seen how wrong Circe can be about events when it suits her preferences to be. Send her from the room, comfort Hecate, and hear her side of the story to cast some light on the situation.

>[ ] Whatever the circumstances of the old hatred between Circe and Hecate, you're not entirely certain it bears on this situation. The idea Circe suggested, of an inferior spirit masquerading as a weakened Goddess, is a convincing one. Interrogate 'Hecate' as to her true nature.

>[ ] Wash your hands of the situation. If this is to be resolved, the two need to be separated from one another, and you've no further interest in seeing them argue in any case. Leave Hecate to rest on the couch and take Circe from the room, then go about some other of the myriad things to be done this morning.

>[ ] Do something else. (Write in)
>>
>>4062690
>[ ] You've already seen how wrong Circe can be about events when it suits her preferences to be. Send her from the room, comfort Hecate, and hear her side of the story to cast some light on the situation
We'll get to the bottom of this.
I wonder if she was forced into speaking against Circe.
Or maybe she knew the alternative to exile was execution or one of those Greek favourite fates worse than death.

Or she was just an awful person back then.

But I'm not sure she would recall her positive relationship with her and be so happy to see her if she really betrayed her out of spite or greed.
>>
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>>4062690
>[ ] Wait dispassionately for Hecate to find her composure and explain herself. After what Circe's said the two Goddesses sound well-suited to one another, and however weak Hecate may seem now you're not inclined to comfort her.
We're being awfully nice to somebody who has yet to prove her worth and refuses to explain herself. Surely there isn't some out-of-character reason for that, hm?
>>
>>4062758
We just realized that Circe is a spiteful idiot that can't see the wood for the trees.
Of course she isn't going to be able to look at things rationally unless Hecate can provide the ultimate placating response.
Which Circe won't give her the opportunity to do.

Also Circe totally deserved it and we should point out that she would have shared in Hecate's fate if she had remained a a Goddess.
To be used as a literal doormat by Hera.
In many ways, Hecate saved her.

Alberich has a weakness to beautiful women anyway. I'd assume the weakness is strengthened by seeing one crying.
>>
>>4062690
>[ ] You've already seen how wrong Circe can be about events when it suits her preferences to be. Send her from the room, comfort Hecate, and hear her side of the story to cast some light on the situation.
Hecate is a good girl
She only wanted to help people
Let's hear her out her side of the story before we side with the girl that turned our "mother" into a finch
>>
>>4062690
>[ ] Wash your hands of the situation. If this is to be resolved, the two need to be separated from one another, and you've no further interest in seeing them argue in any case. Leave Hecate to rest on the couch and take Circe from the room, then go about some other of the myriad things to be done this morning.
Fuck this.
>>
>>4062690
>>[ ] Whatever the circumstances of the old hatred between Circe and Hecate, you're not entirely certain it bears on this situation. The idea Circe suggested, of an inferior spirit masquerading as a weakened Goddess, is a convincing one. Interrogate 'Hecate' as to her true nature.
She seems more and more suspicious the more she talks
>>
>>4062872
Giving up a little early there anon.

>>4062885
In what way?
Because she literally only said about 7 words in that last update.
The rest was incoherent sobbing and Circe accusing her.
You can't genuinely believe that taking the interrogation route will result in anything but more incoherent weeping.
Between the carrot and the stick, we should pick the carrot.
She's a god damn bunny rabbit, after all.
>>
>>4062906
If you want to make this argument, then it should fit an option like this:
>[ ] You've already seen how wrong Circe can be about events when it suits her preferences to be — yet you cannot be completely certain that she is wrong. For now, comfort Hecate and take Circe from the room.
>>
>>4062872
>Fuck this.
Care to elaborate? I'm curious what's prompted such a strong feeling of contempt.
>>
>>4062690
>[ ] Wait dispassionately for Hecate to find her composure and explain herself. After what Circe's said the two Goddesses sound well-suited to one another, and however weak Hecate may seem now you're not inclined to comfort her.

Just let the emotions peter out before proceeding. I'm not inclined to take sides until everyone has got over the initial emotional impact and explained their positions.
>>
>>4062985
It's not contempt, I just want to finish this scene and move on to the part where we get our money— I mean magic.
>>
>>4063003
>It's not contempt, I just want to finish this scene and move on to the part where we get our money— I mean magic.
>Not wanting to try to get Affections of the Goddess from somebody that might actually be able to bestow them so we can sweep away the competition

o shit anon, what r u doin.

Don't you want those -two- A+ Parameters?
Don't you want to be able to deal with Shirou and Medusa with ease?
Or Matsuda and Harris?

With just this one skill from this rabbit, we could crush everyone who has ever wronged us.

>>4062958
Isn't that basically just the same thing?

Besides, with how she's been acting, it's pretty obvious that Hecate's suffering was real.
Even Circe can't recognise the Goddess she was once closest to, so the whole "It's just a scheme." thing is either the world's most well planned for scheme for an event that shouldn't have been possible to prepare for, or she's really just that pathetic now.
>>
>>4062690
>[ ] You've already seen how wrong Circe can be about events when it suits her preferences to be. Send her from the room, comfort Hecate, and hear her side of the story to cast some light on the situation.
Hmm....
We all know if Hecate tries to rationally explain her actions now Circe's just going to shout her down.
This gives a chance of Circe being pissed off for us sending her out but I have an addition to mitigate that
>whisper to her while Hecate is quivering before sending her out:
>If you could step out here, I'll play the sympathetic buffoon and see if I can gain more information on her intentions
Then we can "Send her out!"
Now, Hecate will totally overhear that with her bunny-ears but if she says something we can just say
>Yes, I really don't know what your intentions are now that you're here and am hoping you provide a few more details on that. You mentioned something about reuniting with your followers and on that note I'm hoping to introduce you to the mage who owns this manor soon. But for now, the subject of Circe's exile, if you will.
>>
>>4063003
Which magic are you looking forward to? Vaisset's notes?
>>
>>4063013
>Don't you want those -two- A+ Parameters?
The way she is now you couldn't squeeze a - out of her.
>>
>>4063032
Hmm, good idea.
If we really want to confirm or deny Circe's suspicions, maybe we should ask about things only Hecate could know.
>>4063034
Yes.
>>
>>4063032
This plan fails to account for the fact that Circe will immediately start eavesdropping the moment she leaves.
>>
>>4063085
Even if she did that it wouldn't really be that bad, as long as she didn't randomly burst back in and REEE at us mid-conversation (which she wouldn't do).
>>
>>4063035
I think as long as it's a Goddess, it counts.
The potency of the skill isn't related to the power of the Goddess either, but the strength of their feeling.

This is why we've had such a lucky break in rescuing poor Hecate from her years of torment.

Even luckier if we can reunite her and Circe and subsequently have her best friend forgive her .

If we can successfully have the two make up, this would seem like some sort of impossible dream to Hecate.
>Summoned into mortal realm by kind of scary looking guy
>The first Goddess to be physically summoned outside of that realm in millenia, and it's me. I've finally escaped the torture Hera put me through
>Tell him who I am
>"Oh hold on, I'll get Circe."
>Not only has my hero saved me from Hera, he has also managed to organize a reunion with me and my dear cousin.
>Circe is mad at what happened with her losing her divinity.
>He manages to calm Circe and have her forgive me. (remains to be seen)

Like come on, that in itself is a something straight from a Mythological tale, and it's literally just something we got up to in our morning routine because we were bored. Saving a Goddess and ending a multi millennia long grudge?
That's Alberich.
And it also totally deserves us getting Affections.

God damn it, if this works Odin is going to laugh his ass off so hard.

>>4063085
I mean, it's not like we can really prevent that from happening either way. If Hecate really has another perspective, all we need is to have Circe hear it and decide for herself.

>>4063102
That's just going to force us to get the BDSM ribbons out again.
>>
>>4063107
>The potency of the skill isn't related to the power of the Goddess either
Why not?
>>
>>4063112
Well in lore, we've got Paris now, who has Affections of the God from Apollo ranked at B, with the same effects as Achilles' version of AotG.
Apollo is a far more powerful and important Deity than Thetis, who in some stories isn't even a Goddess at all. So it really can't be based on power.

For more evidence, there's Orion, who is beloved by Artemis so much that his version of the skill is ranked at EX.
Because Artemis loves him so much, she will always be summoned alongside him and he will be reduced to a stuffed bear so she will be in control.

Yeah, getting too much love from a Goddess or a God is a bad thing.
But I digress, if you have divinity and feel strong enough affection towards a mortal, then their development of this skill is natural.
>>
>>4063107
>>4063102
What I'm saying is that trying to play pointless mindgames isn't as effective as letting the emotional tension run its course before coming to an understanding. I would be on board with mindgames if Hecate was actually suspicious, but I don't see anyway she could have constructed some master scheme a few minutes after being randomly summoned, and I loathe the idea of indulging Circe's hysteria on the matter.
>>
>>4063159
That's why I want her out of the room.
Circe isn't going to let up and Hecate is only going to cry more if she doesn't vacate the room. We'll need to be our most gentlemanly towards this Goddess in order to get the full story from her.

I don't know how long Circe lived for after she was stripped of divinity, but there's gotta be at least a century or two of loathing she's going to unleash on the bunny eared goddess, it's not really the sort of thing that you can just let come to a natural end.

It would be quite the turn of events if Hecate pushed for Circe's exile because the alternative was execution or her being turned into a monster like Scylla in turn.
>>
>>4063159
>I loathe the idea of indulging Circe's hysteria on the matter
This is a good point, but at this moment I don't trust Circe to give Hecate a fair hearing, and also I don't trust Hecate to be able to effectively explain her actions in this state. Maybe once Hecate's had a little time to get her bearings she'll be in a better position to make nice without our assistance but I feel safer intervening for now in a limited scope.
>>
>>4063132
>Well in lore, we've got Paris now, who has Affections of the God from Apollo ranked at B, with the same effects as Achilles' version of AotG.
Looking to F/GO for lore? How could you betray us like this, anon.
>>
>>4063200
Between non-offensive skills from FGO or your Headcanon, I'll go with FGO.
As awful as it is, it's about the only thing we've got that actually explains anything about the Nasuverse anymore.
Just ignore the offensive retcons.

We all like Tiamat, don't we?
>>
>>4063132
>>4063200
I'd like you both to know that I've given the matter plenty of thought, and there's a good explanation behind each instance of Affections. It's not as simple as "the strength of feeling" or "the power of the deity" though. After all, if things were limited by strength of feeling Paris would have a much lower rank than Achilles, and if it were governed by the deity's power it would be the inverse. Consider all the details of the myths at play and you can work it out, I'm sure.
>>
>>4063209
>Between non-offensive skills from FGO or your Headcanon
I haven't presented any headcanon at all, just questioned your own.
>I'll go with FGO.
You're also going to go with Paris being a trap then?
>>
>>4063218
>Consider all the details of the myths at play and you can work it out, I'm sure.
Damn it man, I'm not a mind reader here.
>>
>>4063169
>>4063188
It's not a good idea to let this fester any longer than it already has, and if we break it off now all this will have done is sow more division and confusion. Any conversation we have after this will be tainted with feelings of injustice and favoritism if we send Circe out right now. The key is to allow the emotions to run dry and prevent Circe from adding fuel to the fire with inane accusations of impersonation, while keeping the dialogue intact.

The key to effective mediation is allowing the subjects to resolve their issues without abusing eachother.
>>
>>4063239
Fine
>Achilles was aided by his mother Thetis in becoming mostly immortal
>Paris was aided by Apollo in slaying Achilles
>Both B rank

>Artemis really really loved Orion, accidentally killed him, and turned him into a constellation.
>EX rank
>when not bodysnatching him, Orion's NP is fucking broken because of this

Is it how much aid a Goddess or God is willing to give?
The extent of what they would do to aid the target of their affections?
uuurgh.
Somebody help me out here.

>>4063264
I mean, if you made a write in requesting Circe to refrain from speaking while Hecate gives her explanation while encouraging Hecate, I'd support that.
>>
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>>4063218
>you can work it out, I'm sure
>>
>>4063283
It could be about the degree of aid the god is extending based on past actions. Thetis, for example, interceded indirectly in a number of ways but ultimately let Achilles go off by himself, so she buffs him; Apollo helped Paris take the shot by guiding the arrow, so once again he buffs Paris. In both of these cases, the heroes were aided indirectly.

Artemis, however, went hunting with Orion in legend, so naturally she would fight by his side again.
>>
>>4062690

Change my vote to
>Let Hecate cry herself out before getting her side of the story. Don't let Circe insult and accuse her and address the improbability of her concocting a campaign of emotional manipulation a few minutes after being suddenly dragged out of IN space.
>>
>>4063297
So, if B is gained from indirect help...
And EX is gained from literally fighting alongside them

Then it stands to reason that A would come from direct assistance? No?

Affections of the Goddess: (A) here we come!

We've already done more for Hecate than most mortals ever do for the Gods.

On another topic.

You know what would be the funniest possible summon we could grab from INS now?
Baldur.
Just grab him straight from Hel, which should also be in the INS.
Baldur would have some sort of Affections of the World skill, considering everything (EVERYTHING) loves him and swore an oath not to hurt him. I imagine you could only use an Anti-World attack to harm him.
Or uh, a mistletoe spear.

Also Odin's reaction would be pretty neat.


>>4063303
Switch to this actually.
>>
>>4063321
>Baldur would have some sort of Affections of the World skill
Troths of the Nine Realms: EX
The vow made by every object in the nine realms to never bring harm to Archer. There is nothing in this world which can harm him or otherwise affect him negatively except the mistletoe, which never pledged to protect him.

And, by the way, I'm disappointed in you for not wanting to summon Fenrir.
>>
>>4063342
>summon Fenrir
>it eats Odin
>no upgrade
>then it eats all the other servants
>sill no upgrade
>then it eats us too
>definitely no upgrade
Can we not summon hungry apocalypse dog?
>>
>>4063357
It's always about upgrades with you! Can't we have some drama here? The look on Odin's face would be beautiful.
>>
>>4063372
It would be beautiful for the 12 seconds we'd get to see it before he gets devoured followed by the nearest large source of magical energy.

So Lily follows her original Servant.

But enough about Fenrir, let's try to figure out how we can gain Hecate's Affections skill.
A blessing?
A kiss?
if it is A rank it might even raise MGC and possibly even LCK too.
Making Alberich's statline truly and absolutely ridiculously unfair.
Str: A+
End: A
Agi: A+
Mgc: A
Lck: A
Np: A+

Now imagine what potential Berserkerberich would be like with stats like that further enhanced.
An absolute demon to fight.
I'm really hoping this works out for us.
This is the Gamechanger we've been looking for.
>>
>>4062690
>[ ] Wait dispassionately for Hecate to find her composure and explain herself. After what Circe's said the two Goddesses sound well-suited to one another, and however weak Hecate may seem now you're not inclined to comfort her.
>>
Comfort Hecate with Circe out of the room
>>4062734
>>4062832
>>4063032

Wash your hands of the matter
>>4062872

'Hecate' doesn't seem like a Goddess at all...
>>4062885

Wait for Hecate to calm down and speak for herself
>>4062758
>>4063529
>>4062993

Well, folks, it looks like we've got a tie. I'm going to bed for the night. I look forward to seeing what plan you've made/settled on in the morning, as I'll be writing first thing.
Hopefully I won't sleep as ridiculously late tomorrow as I did this morning.
>>
>>4063580
A tie? Then I'll switch from >>4062872 to
>[ ] Wait dispassionately for Hecate to find her composure and explain herself. After what Circe's said the two Goddesses sound well-suited to one another, and however weak Hecate may seem now you're not inclined to comfort her.
>>
>>4063580
You missed that two votes were switched to
>>Let Hecate cry herself out before getting her side of the story. Don't let Circe insult and accuse her and address the improbability of her concocting a campaign of emotional manipulation a few minutes after being suddenly dragged out of IN space.

But that still only makes a three way tie.

>>4063621
Go for the write-in damn you!
>>
Anyway, if we do end up with affections and A+ Parameters, who should we go after first?
The Emiyas?
We can get that Medusa Lily (and Stheno and Euryale) plan going as well as bully Sword Boy (but let's not kill him)

Or we could go after Harris and Matsuda and have our long awaited revenge on the two who thought they could get away with showing us up.

Or we could refocus on to Antaglio, who apparently we've never actually heard talk, which is obviously because the "Antaglio" we... heard talk... did so
Just.
Like.
Assassin.
MOTHERFUCKER.

So
>Emiya and Pals
>Brotherly Love
>Dealing with a Fake Priest
>Asking Tsubaki what the fuck her NP does and using it to further grow in strength
We'll have a few routes I'd be comfortable with pursuing if we do end up with the Affections Buff to A+.

I wonder what Adelheid or Tsubaki would think of our dramatic empowerment.
Adelheid would probably just be smug in her decision to follow us once again.
Tsubaki would be fun to see just how CoP interacts with her.
Ayaka might be interesting to inform of our strength, she gets a bonus Goddess to mom her too. Hopefully Hecate is feeling up to the task of doing so.

Saber Alter would probably just be angry that our power has advanced to a level where we could simply mess around with her in a fight.

And Odin is probably going to be overjoyed at what a wonderful fight we're turning out to be.

Anyway, Hecate will really want to give us as much aid as she is able. Because if we die, she has to go back home.
>>
Anyone?

We do still need to come to a conclusion here.
>>
>>4063580
>Let Hecate cry herself out before getting her side of the story. Don't let Circe insult and accuse her and address the improbability of her concocting a campaign of emotional manipulation a few minutes after being suddenly dragged out of IN space.
>>
And we're tied again.
>>
>>4062885
>>4063580
changing to>>4063032
to untie the vote
>>
THREE WAY TIE.
>>
>>4063949
what are the votes, I have awaken from my slumber to untie this vote, it is my destiny to do so
>>
>>4063961
I think right now, the leading votes (not including the one you just voted for) are
>[ ] Wait dispassionately for Hecate to find her composure and explain herself. After what Circe's said the two Goddesses sound well-suited to one another, and however weak Hecate may seem now you're not inclined to comfort her.
and the write in...
>Let Hecate cry herself out before getting her side of the story. Don't let Circe insult and accuse her and address the improbability of her concocting a campaign of emotional manipulation a few minutes after being suddenly dragged out of IN space.
With 3 each
>>
>>4063642
What about finding Kikuko? We talk about making her Tsubaki's friend but we haven't made any plans to get her. She's a mundane from tokyo right? If we wait too long won't the magic drain kill her?
>>
>>4063940
>>4063970
change to>Let Hecate cry herself out before getting her side of the story. Don't let Circe insult and accuse her and address the improbability of her concocting a campaign of emotional manipulation a few minutes after being suddenly dragged out of IN space.
just end this already
>>
>>4063984
>Let Hecate cry herself out before getting her side of the story. Don't let Circe insult and accuse her and address the improbability of her concocting a campaign of emotional manipulation a few minutes after being suddenly dragged out of IN space.
>>
>>4063972
>won't the magic drain kill her?
Drain is over now.
Circe was using the leylines in order to provide energy for Herself, Odysseus, Adelheid, and a small legion of Odysseus clones.
The only person draining the leylines now is Tsubaki and Seibah Alter when we allow her to.
Circe is being sustained by Lily and is still providing for Adelheid.
Kikuko might have gotten mana sickness, but I doubt she died.
I don't think we ever found out if she had circuits or not.

And we can simply ask Circe or Tsubaki to scry for her whenever we want.
Hell, we can actually have Circe teleport her to us if we really want.

We'll first need impetus to do so, it would be kind of OOC for Alberich to just decide "BRING KIKUKO TO ME", possibly from our next interaction with Tsubaki. Alberich might decide the girl needs to make a damn friend from how she acts around pretty much everyone in the house.
Their personalities should hopefully compliment each other quite well, both basically being normal highschoolers that were twisted to evil by the Akeldama, even if the original Kikuko is almost the exact opposite of Ogawara.

Oh god why are we making evil WataMote.

I just want Kikuko to both be observant and dumb enough to immediately realise that Tsubaki is Ogawara, but also think that Ogawara was always just a shy girl.
>>
>>4064015
How many Operation Ogawara Waifu titles do I have to make up before you free me from this implacable monster?
>>
>>4064038
How many breads have you eaten in your life?
>>
>>4064041
Operation Ogawara Waifu 4: 私の彼女がこんなに可愛いわけがない
>>
So, this morning I got up at nine.
Then my boss called, and I had to put in a half day at work even though it's a Sunday.
orz
Sorry for my terrible schedule. I'm working on the update now, and happily we're no longer tied.

>>4064015
How very optimistic you are, anon!

>>4064064
It looks like there's a rift in the Kōrakuhime-Kikuko faction! One anon wants the two to be friends, another is looking for something more...
>>
>>4064599
That division has always existed.
First we need to see how the two get along.
I doubt it will end up going the yuri route anyway.
Maybe Kikuko will provide Tsubaki with some ideas for getting us to pay attention to her.

>How very optimistic you are, anon!
In what regard?
Should the two hate each other we'll just have to call it a loss and seal the hatch of being irrelevant on the two of them once and for all.
No skin off Alberich's back.
He tried.
Or she's dead from mana drain and that's also boring.
>>
"You see?" Circe crows triumphantly. "Nothing to say! She can't raise a word in her defense! I'm sure right now she's hiding her face to think of-"

"Be silent, Circe," you order, throwing an arm between accuser and accused. "You've said enough. Now you'll wait."

"Excuse me?" comes the indignant reply. "Can't you see that-"

You let her get no further. "Liliesviel," you begin, in a voice of icy command, "may be your Master now, but I believe I still hold some claim to authority over you, Circe. Now I tell you to be silent. What I see is that you've berated this woman to tears without a chance to defend herself, and accuse her of a scheme which would have required improbably quick thinking in response to an unexpected summoning for her to conceive of." Fixing your eyes on Circe's, and making her understand by the sternness of your expression that you'll accept no further resistance to your orders, you say at the last, "I'll tell you this one more time, Circe. Before you speak again, wait for Hecate to defend herself."

Cowed by your words and gesture, Circe makes no reply but to take half a step back from you and cast her eyes down, her formerly agitated wings hanging listlessly folded about her shoulders. Whether she regrets her actions, understands your reasoning, or is only motivated by fear of displeasing you further you can't say, but in any case you're satisfied she'll make it no more difficult for Hecate to recover herself and speak. Thus, folding your arms and waiting without emotion you turn your eyes to the rabbit-eared woman. Indeed, you see, she has collected herself admirably during your stinging rebuke of Circe. Perhaps she gathered courage from your protection, for she stands now without the aid of the couch and although she's still wiping at her face with her handkerchief the active flow of tears seems to have come to an end. A short period of silence elapses as she goes on readying herself, but after a few more efforts to remove the traces of her tears Hecate finally manages, in a shaky voice punctuated by sniffles, to begin to speak.

"Circe-chan," she says, almost ignoring you as she addresses her former friend, "It is true that I spoke out against you before the gathered Gods. I won't deny that, say that I was coerced into it, or make any other excuse for the matter; but you must understand, what I said wasn't motivated out of pride or ambition! I spoke against you purely out of a concern for justice, and the honor of the Gods! You must see that what you did had to be punished!"

"I had to be punished over a [i[]nymph?" Circe echoes, her anger flaring back up in an instant. "You can't believe that! They were nothing to us; lesser spirits we could do whatever we wanted with! I was hardly the first Goddess to transform or destroy one, you know."
>>
"You were the first to do what you did," Hecate replies, and for the first time you hear from her a bit of the voice of authority you might expect from a Goddess. Her expression sets, and her face loses something of its softness. "What the other Gods handed down in judgment, to punish those who had trespassed against Olympian dignity, you inflicted on one who had done nothing to you. Scylla didn't seduce your lover away from you; she never gave him the slightest sign of her approval or token of affection. He left you and pursued her according to his own foolishness, and if you'd revenged yourself on him it might have been understood. Instead you chose her for your target, and in doing so you disgraced us all. You cast away the dignity you were born with as an Olympian, and so it was only right that the status you derived it from be taken."

Circe, taken aback by this sudden change in the woman she's been freely abusing, can for a moment offer no reply. It seems Hecate doesn't need to hear one, though, for after her cold pronouncement she seems to shrink from her own harshness. The gentle expression returns to her features, and in a voice full of emotion she quickly appends, "It wasn't my suggestion that you be exiled forever, though! I had only recommended a century; it was Zeus who decreed you'd lose your divinity perpetually! Now that so much time has passed, we can get along again, can't we?"

"How comforting," Circe replies acidly. Staring hatred at Hecate she continues, "Well; I believe you're Hecate now. As for the rest of it, I see you're still papering over your ambition with the same trash you did thousands of years ago. See whether it convinces Alberich as well as it did Zeus." With that, Circe turns on her heel and storms out of the room.

>[ ] Follow Circe, to try to convince her to change her mind. Hecate's sense of justice may be harsh, but you believe she's telling the truth about her motivations and feelings toward Circe.

>[ ] Follow Circe, and ask her what she expects Hecate's intentions are now. If she was willing to carry manipulation so far in order to destroy a rival Goddess, it's doubtful she'll have the best intentions toward her summoner now.

>[ ] Remain with Hecate and explain her present circumstances in greater detail. It's obvious that her feud with Circe won't be resolved any time soon, and it's time you brought her to an understanding of the Holy Grail War in any case.

>[ ] Things being as they are with Circe, there's no more reason to stay in the basement. Hecate can follow you as you go about your next business of the day. (Visit one of your other housemates? Check on Yumigawa? Study in the library? What's next?)

>[ ] Do something else. (Write in)
>>
>>4065130
>>[ ] Remain with Hecate and explain her present circumstances in greater detail. It's obvious that her feud with Circe won't be resolved any time soon, and it's time you brought her to an understanding of the Holy Grail War in any case.

Hmm, well, a century isn't really that long at all for a Goddess.
It was all Zeus' fault then.
And yes Circe, bullying random spirits with your divine powers because senpai won't notice you is something that deserves punishment.
You fucking lunatic.
Learn your god damn lesson.

Hell, if Hecate had her way she wouldn't have even lost her divinity for good. She was obviously happy to see Circe, given that she thought they would never meet again too.
Circe needs to fucking get over herself.
Big deal, you lost your divinity and didn't get to be Hera's fucking throw rug for two millennia.

Hecate obviously still has affection for Circe, but is also not a terrible person.
Just because Circe would throw Hecate under the bus for her own ambition doesn't mean that Hecate shares her motivations.
>>
>>4065130
>[ ] Remain with Hecate and explain her present circumstances in greater detail. It's obvious that her feud with Circe won't be resolved any time soon, and it's time you brought her to an understanding of the Holy Grail War in any case.

I just hope they can eventually get along
>>
>>4065130
>[ ] Remain with Hecate and explain her present circumstances in greater detail. It's obvious that her feud with Circe won't be resolved any time soon, and it's time you brought her to an understanding of the Holy Grail War in any case.

Still butthurt after millennia due to being incapable of accepting accountability for her actions.

Women, amirite?

Anyway, now that we have exhausted the drama of antiquity, let's move on to the current source of divine conflict.
>>
>>4065160
I'm sure in time Circe will realize that Hecate is the only person around that would be willing to support her.

>>4065162
She needs the time alone to consider things.
She'll learn to thank Hecate for her actions in time.
She avoided meeting an awful fate.
>>
>>4065130
>[ ] Remain with Hecate and explain her present circumstances in greater detail. It's obvious that her feud with Circe won't be resolved any time soon, and it's time you brought her to an understanding of the Holy Grail War in any case.
There was no need for you to make Circe so worst.
But now is the time Hecate.
I want to finally be strong enough not to nearly job to water.
>>
Wanting to bring Kikuko aboard to befriend Tsubaki is a brainlet move.

The real reason we should get Kikuko is so she can advise us on how to deal with our goddess allies.
Because despite their divine powers and longevity, the Greek Pantheon all act like fucking highschoolers.
So who better to figure out a solution to get these quarelling goddesses to make up than the most popular girl in her school?

Kikuko can be our diplomat/messenger/priestess in the next age.

At least the other pantheons tend to be marginally better.
With a few notable exceptions.
Looking at you Loki you genderbender horsefucker.
You too Ishtar.

It's a terrifying thought that Loki at one point might take the form of a loli to seduce Alberich. Lo(li)ki.
>>
>>4065149
>senpai won't notice you
*senpai led you on and then ditched you for someone else

At least get the facts right, anon.
>>
>>4065799
He only wanted a love potion and she was being a bitch about it.

We're still making a Goddess Idol Band right?
With Hecate, Korakuhime, Circe and Lily, I'm sure we'll be able to extract Stheno and Euryale from Medusa.
I wonder if you can get Affection of the Goddesses as a skill if enough Goddesses like you.
I wonder what the buffs on that would be like.
>>
>>4065802
>Korakuhime
Affections of the Goddess (False): A++
A skill indicating that one is loved by a (false) goddess. It has no effect whatsoever because the so-called goddess is only an imitation of a true deity.
>>
>>4065816
This is bullying.
>>
>>4065824
The bullying will continue until she tells us what her precious tools do.
>>
>>4065836
Lets steal her book and call her a nerd.

If only we had Reincarnation Pandora.
>>
>>4065840
>take hitsuzen rekishi
>read our own thoughts
>accidentally think about judas
>book causes feedback loop
>"You came back pretty fast, what's up sonny jimbo?"
>>
>>4065848
Thankfully the book doesn't seem to allow for mindreading.
Otherwise she would have used it on Arturia during our interrogation of her.

Third Person Perspective is a bitch.
>>
>>4065855
>Thankfully the book doesn't seem to allow for mindreading.
>>A blush rose to her face, as she discovered that he was thinking of her at that very moment, reaching out to his energy source in the car to ask what had become of her!
It tracks surface-level thoughts, as we saw in her interlude. More likely she didn't want us to know what it does.
>>
>>4065848
Also, it's a scrying/futuretelling book.
Name effectively means "Inevitable History"

>>4065857
It can hack into the telepathic link between a Servant and a Master.
I kind of want to stab her stupid book with Heilig.

That was a private conversation, asshole.
>>
>>4065861
>Of course, she couldn't hear what the two men were saying with the car sealed, but the Hitsuzen Rekishi was there to clear up such inconveniences.
Think again.
>>
>>4065863
Yes
It's a scrying book.
I said that.
>>
>>4065866
Ah well, when we get runes from Odin we can just slap a rune on her that will make her experience immense pain should she attempt to use it on us without permission.

Though that might be encouragement.
Fucking masochist.
Maybe set her on fire instead.
>>
>>4065871
Ah, the best idea here.
Non-lethal too.
Whenever she tries it, a meter cube of freezing cold water appears directly above her head.

This is a valid use of the magical knowledge of a God, right?
>>
>>4065876
That's pretty good. It needs to be
extremely uncomfortable, but not actually painful.
>>
>>4065866
occam's razor
>>4065876
Make it a meter cube of freezing cold saltwater.
>>
At this point I think it's safe to say being bullied is all Kourakuhime is good for.
>>
>>4065747
>There was no need for you to make Circe so worst
I wouldn't say her behavior here is as bad as the things she's done before, in the quest and mythology. It's fairly understandable for her to feel the way she does.
>I want to finally be strong enough not to nearly job to water
The Grail water would kill Odin as easily as it'd kill you. It's not a matter of strength.
>>
>>4065935
>The Grail water would kill Odin as easily as it'd kill you. It's not a matter of strength.
>even gods job to grail water
Sad!
>>
>>4065935
>The Grail water would kill Odin as easily as it'd kill you. It's not a matter of strength.
Lmao.
This magic succ water is retarded.
>>
Why don't we just have Circe teleport the Einzbern Brand™ Kill Anything Juice™ onto Odin's fucking face.
>>
File: 1572339758150.gif (1.64 MB, 400x300)
1.64 MB
1.64 MB GIF
>>4065944
...
>>
>in soviet austria, water succ you
>>
>>4065944
That violates the MMAP.
>>
>>4065940
>>4065944
Liliesviel explained it in plenty of detail before. If you want to ignore that, you've no-one to blame but yourself.
>>
>>4065958
It's still dumb.
>>
>>4065130
>[ ] Remain with Hecate and explain her present circumstances in greater detail. It's obvious that her feud with Circe won't be resolved any time soon, and it's time you brought her to an understanding of the Holy Grail War in any case.

>further alienating Circe with a mediocre summon
Is Hecate even worth the drama? Let's find out.
>>
>>4065985
Is Circe even worth the drama? Ayaka would say no.

Affections is worth the drama though.
>>
>>4065987
I think a more realistic use for Hecate would be her helping us develop our magic skills.
>>
>>4065987
>Affections is worth the drama though.
reminder that odin is a god
>>
>>4065996
>we gain his "Affection" by giving him a battle to remember
y-you too
>>
>>4065996
He's also an asshole.
We also need to kill him.
Alberich does not please old men for Affections.

>>4065995
Why not both?
She's still a Goddess.
>>
>>4065959
Look, anon. That 'water' is an enormous mystic code that interfaces with the leylines and Greater Grail to force Mana to flow more rapidly through the land and siphon a massive quantity of that energy off into the Greater Grail. Now, if a creature made primarily out of energy, such as a Servant, steps into that mystic code, the effect will be comparable to a gaseous being stepping into a wind tunnel.
What part of that situation seems poorly thought-out to you?
>>
>>4066033
I just despise the concept of "killy water" that is somehow superior in it's Servant killing ability to full on Angra Mud and the role you had it play in the story was also silly.
The concept behind it will forever be tainted by the ridiculous bullshit of EARTHQUAKE ASSASSIN.
It will also be tarnished by you making it a potential dead end to just walk straight into it even though Liliesviel should have explained the instakill water as soon as we entered the room.

Also, if it was capable of instantaneously killing homonculi and servants, why the fuck would they use a boat and not a fucking bridge?

I'm glad we're out of that part of story, because good lord was it a slog.
>>
>>4066047
>why the fuck would they use a boat and not a fucking bridge?
This is a good idea, though. How many Heroic Spirits other than Saber and Rider can row? How many will be in any condition to row or otherwise get to the Grail after going through Odin somehow?
>>
>>4066047
Have you really thought this through?
The effects of the mystic code are the complete opposite of Angra's mud; how are they in any way comparable?
As for Assassin, how did you not realize it wasn't an actual earthquake the minute you left the chamber and discovered that nowhere else was affected by an earthquake? I all-but spelled out that Alberich's first conclusion was wrong!
As for using a boat, they wouldn't use one for the same reason you wouldn't put a steel beam through a magic circle. A bridge is a construct that would impede the function of the water, while a boat only crosses the surface. This kind of thing should be clear the minute you read "mystic code".
>>
>>4066050
Almost all Servants can just jump the distance.
Remember how Archer can just leap from building to building?
Casters can just float across or freeze the water or something.

I wonder what happens if Shirou were to just dunk Rule Breaker into the Water.
>>
>>4066051
>while a boat only crosses the surface. This kind of thing should be clear the minute you read "mystic code".
Are you implying that it's impossible for the Einzbern to create a suspension bridge.
Or a bridge that doesn't touch the water.
Fucking hell.

> I all-but spelled out that Alberich's first conclusion was wrong!
I literally don't care. It had the same effects as a fucking Earthquake and is still just as lame now as it was then.

>complete opposite of Angra's mud; how are they in any way comparable?
I should probably have specified Dark Sakura.

The implication that Odin in a Homonculus body would be killed instantly by Mana Drain is silly when Gilgamesh almost kills Sakura from within when he has effectively the same thing occur to him, except he has the bonus of also having to deal with 6 billion curses at the same time.

She actually needed to transform Gilgamesh into energy or whatever the fuck happened in that scene, it's not like he just died and turned to energy instantly upon being consumed.

And this was the power of the actual grail combined with Imaginary Numbers, not some random mystic code the Einzbern made to supplement it's energy intake.
>>
>>4066069
>Are you implying that it's impossible for the Einzbern to create a suspension bridge.
No, but why would they? It's at odds with the design of the place, and you know these are people with heavy sensibilities about appearance.

>I literally don't care.
Great. Nice to know you're invested in figuring out what your enemies can do or how their abilities work. Just bringing it up for a reason to complain, then?

>
The implication that Odin in a Homonculus body would be killed instantly by Mana Drain is silly when Gilgamesh almost kills Sakura from within when he has effectively the same thing occur to him, except he has the bonus of also having to deal with 6 billion curses at the same time.
Alright, this is a slightly fair point. Honestly he'd be more likely to end up in a kind of stasis, with too much of his energy being siphoned off to do anything but not enough to kill him immediately. The Sakura comparison is still totally off-base though, because the only reason Gilgamesh's existence harmed her was the same central 'illness' that largely drove the plot of Heaven's Feel: a frail human body attempting to contain massive amounts of energy and dominate foreign spirits. Take away that human limitation, and it becomes much simpler.

>the power of the actual grail, not some random mystic code the EInzbern made
Three points: first, the actual grail is a mystic code created by the Einzbern. Second, this thing is hooked up to the actual grail just as much as Sakura was. Third, just to remind you what being made by the Einzbern entails, this is the family that more than any other magus lineage has mastered control over the flow and transference of power. It's the core of their magical tradition. They invented Servants. It really seems as though you're underselling their aptitude for some incomprehensible reason.
>>
>>4066091
We aren't going to agree on this.
Ever.
There's a reason that nobody enjoyed the story or wanted to discuss anything when we were trapped in that godawful story segment.

"Muh magic water", was one of those reasons.
Along with "muh invisible tricky earthquakey assassin"

Easily the lowpoint of the quest.

Especially because everyone knew we were going to get fucked with and wanted to bring Tsubaki which you just totally ignored.
>>
>>4066101
The part of the quest with the best chunks of writing I've done since starting this whole thing, and it's the low point, huh?
Well, that's just my experience all over, isn't it? I can't please you.
Now I've got to be going. I'll have an update for you folks in the afternoon, and hopefully we can get this introduction to Hecate wrapped up and move on to the rest of the day a bit more speedily.
>>
>>4066101
Are you the same guy that always stirs shit over complete non-issues to get Sweets to give you (you)s?
>>
>>4066120
I mean, the writing was good I'll give you that, but it was set in a hideously repetitive chain of events. Nothing could be less interesting than the choice points all basically being "Save Lily or Bad End." For about 10 updates straight.
That's why I say it was a slog.
"Here comes Wile E. Coyote the Assassin with another vaguely annoying scheme!"

Almost no player agency to be had for an entire thread.

>>4066138
Sweets was the one who wanted to make magical jobbing fluid into a discussion point.
>>
I just figured out the ultimate twist Sweets has been trying to hide.
The constant insecurity and need for approval
The super emotional reactions to criticism and slow discussion
The favoritism of flat waifus
The weird shoujo manga like romantic dynamic between Alberich and any girl he goes after
The obsessive need to defend the worst and most selfish girls when they get called out
What if Sweets is actually an insecure flat teenage girl? It all fits!
>>
>>4066179
Now this is bullying.
>>
>>4066185
This is a bullying quest for bullies.
>>
>>4066185
No anon. Think about it. It makes perfect sense. All this time Sweets was trying to ruse us into thinking she was a lolicon guy but really it's the reverse.
>>
You think we should talk to Yumigawa before the others get up? Seems kinda weird we haven't seen him since capture.
>>
>>4066363
I think people stopped caring about him the same time the plot did.
>>
Oh, I know why the Einzbern magic kill juice feels so silly.

Because Bloodfort Andromeda exists as a draining NP with the actual bounded field being described as being near the level of Magic.
You know, the thing that any Servant with Magic Resistance can easily just resist for extended periods?

Where the actual purpose of it is to drain magic?

Instead of just "magic succ water instakills servants".
>>
>>4066510
"Near the level of Magic" is a bullshit term used to inflate the importance of anything in the Nasuverse. It doesn't have any actual meaning. Why can't you accept that this is just a really good mystic code that is optimized for giving succ?
>>
>>4066634
Because it's optimized for succing on the leylines, not individual existences and it makes Servants look like absolutely worthless jobbing shits just like FGO does.

Good thing Medea didn't figure out how to use her fantastic Leyline draining powers to turn all the Servants into smoothies.
>>
Hey there folks, I just got home. Sorry to differ again from my plans, but the day was a complete disaster. At least it's more or less over at this point.
Anyway, I'm starting in on writing the next update now.

>>4066179
Anon, I am definitely not a teenage girl. I'm sorry, but you couldn't be more off with this guess.
However. If, hypothetically, I were one, and flat, I would have nothing to be insecure about! A slender figure has its own appeal, and considering the situation of the heroines in this quest, I'd imagine most of you folks playing appreciate that.

>>4066465
I suppose you mean he's no longer relevant, but I am a bit surprised you don't want more closure on the whole situation. There was a lot of talk about what you'd do with him after taking him prisoner at the time, after all.

>>4066642
>just like FGO
That stings, anon.
>>
>>4066800
I think all the potential catharsis sort of drained away when it was revealed that he was pretty much a powerless manabattery. That whole thing really puts Akeldama into context, because if Yumi didn't have command seals Circe would have acted completely differently, and likely would have overpowered us to pursue her own agenda.
>>
>>4066822
Yeah, there was absolutely no reason for me to want to really pursue vengeance on him after that reveal.
Like, he talked shit and acted smug, but in reality was just a man who had lost everything.
His personality, his life, his parents, even control of his own fate.
It's really difficult for me to want to severely punish somebody as pitiful as that.

He wasn't even a mana battery.
He was... nothing.

>>4066800
>That stings, anon.
You look me in the eye and say that a Mystic Code created by Modern Magi with the capability to instantly kill Servants doesn't sound like exactly the sort of thing FGO would do.
>>
>>4066822
>Yumi didn't have command seals Circe would have acted completely differently
Actually, with this context, it makes what happened with her being contracted to Lily absolutely hilarious.

We should just turn Yumigawa into a dove and gift him to Ayaka or whatever.
It's hardly supertorture, but it's punishment enough.
>>
>>4066835
The only question is, now what do we do with him? Keep him as our prisoner? Seems pointless. Send him away? Now he knows too much and has no life to return to.
I think we should confront him with the fact that he's absolutely insignificant and give him a chance to change that somehow. I don't know. Might be interesting.
>>
>>4066874
I mean, we could always turn him into a butler with mind alteration.
I wonder how much Tsubaki would bully him.
>>
>>4066874
Maybe he could go back into the world and become a marginally less autistic businessman.
>>
>>4066881
>mind alteration
If his parents are just birbs and the transformation's reversible, couldn't we just wipe his memories of Akeldama and send him back to his ordinary life? As long as their house was insured they'd probably be able to get back on their feet.
>>
>>4067000
Hmm.
A tempting offer, and quite the generous one.
But why don't we also turn Yumigawa into a birb also and have them live together as a happy birb family?
>>
>>4067010
Because that's needlessly cruel? That's some serious "I Have no Mouth and I Must Scream" shit.
>>
>>4067038
Oh please anon, call it what it is.
"I Have a Beak and I Must Tweet."
>>
"So it goes," you sigh, watching Circe leave. "I suppose a resentment that's lasted so many years already isn't to be cleared up easily."

"Then what am I to do?" Hecate asks plaintively. "Without Circe's friendship, surely I must be alone in this world."

"It's true that I have no more acquaintances of yours living here," you concede with a wry smile, "but you're hardly directionless. You don't believe I summoned you for no purpose, do you?"

"Oh! I... suppose you must not have," the Goddess agrees, looking as startled as if the idea of your having some reason for summoning her had never occurred to her before this moment. "Did you desire some boon from me in exchange for returning me to the material world, then? I'm afraid I can grant you little, having lost so much of my power," she says with trepidation.

"A Goddess's boon would be a find thing, I'm sure," you muse, "but it wasn't exactly in pursuit of that that I summoned you. I told you before that my sword acts as a tool in such summonings; now I ought to explain that the nature of the creatures it draws forth is largely uncertain. I no more knew that you would be Hecate than that Futodoki would be a nekomata, and as far as I was aware my summoning would have called another creature like him." With a self-deprecating shrug you continue, "You see that my circumstances are such that I am willing to accept the aid of whatever sort of being is summoned, and I had been seeking one more relating to a familiar than a patron Goddess."

"Really?" Hecate asks, looking thoughtful. "But you already have a familiar in that nekomata you introduced to me, don't you? What was it that made you desire to summon another phantasmal beast?"

You can't help but chuckle at the question, so ignorant of your circumstances. "Necessity," you answer. "Or something like it, anyway. In my situation one calls on every tool at one's disposal to create an advantage. You see, Hecate, what I am engaged in is a mortal battle for a potent magical artifact, referred to as the Holy Grail War; though it's fought by only a few magi struggling for the Grail. The Grail, it is said, is an omnipotent granter of wishes to he who possesses it, and a nigh-infinite source of magical energy. I'm sure it's easy to understand then, even for one unfamiliar with the modern era, why magi put their lives on the line to possess it. Only seven may enter the struggle, but each represents a powerful faction and a grand dream."

"Indeed," Hecate replies thoughtfully. "You are one of these magi, then, endeavoring to change the world in accordance with the wishes of your sect?"
>>
"Not so, I'm afraid," you answer. "Things have grown rather complicated in this War. Though I pursue a wish now, I entered the battle by no will of my own; though born in the modern day, I fill the role of an ancient hero. The War is meant to be fought, you see, by seven magi, each accompanied by the ghost of a legendary hero of antiquity; but such things are never certain. Our War has been fraught with confusion and violations to this simple arrangement." You give Hecate a shrug and a smile, communicating more thoroughly than by words your indifference to the violation of the War's rules, before continuing, "Most of the War is over now, but the enemies that remain to me are dangerous ones: a man who can produce enchanted weapons in an instant, who fights alongside a woman with petrifying eyes and a skilled combat magus; a God of War and Magic from a land far to the north of your own home, Odin; my brother, a dangerous warrior who wields a spear with incomprehensible skill; and a hidden Assassin with uncertain abilities to induce dangers that seem the effects of random chance. I must cut down all of these, if I am to survive beyond a week or two from today, and for that reason I summoned you."

You give your words a few moments to sink in, observing the nervous expression on Hecate's face with some disappointment, before continuing. "So," you say gravely, affixing her with an analytical stare, "what can you do to aid me in my war against a God, legendary heroes, and modern magi? What abilities are left to you after your weakening at the hands of the collected Olympians?"

"I've become very skilled at domestic chores!" Hecate begins, with forced brightness. "...but I suppose that's not the sort of answer you would hope to hear from me. The truth is that the majority of my ancient powers are lost. Divine authority no longer exists in this world during the Age of Man, and the physical properties that separate Gods from lesser beings were mostly taken from me as part of my punishment. I suppose there are a few ways I could aid you, but..." Hecate trails off. During her explanation of her weakness, she hasn't been able to make eye contact with you. Instead, seeming bashful and ashamed of her uselessness, she's cast her eyes down at the floor as she's spoken, letting her hair fall to largely obscure her face and even mirroring the hanging posture of her head with her ears, which appear listless and limp. Now, though, she seems to gather her courage to face you, and with a voice that speaks of mingled fear and determination, asks, "Why is it that you pursue this artifact? When a human seeks a magically potent item, one can usually expect it to be a divine relic; if I'm to help you obtain this object of your desire, It is my responsibility as a Goddess to know why you're seeking it and determine whether you are worthy of divine assistance in gaining your ambition."
>>
For a moment you're taken aback at the question. For Hecate to condemn Circe, an acquaintance from before her humbling at the hands of Hera was one thing, but this is quite another. Since her summoning the woman has been nothing but submissive and frightened toward you, and yet now she presumes to ask you why it is that you seek to obtain the Holy Grail? Does she believe it's still the Age of Gods? A restrained anger boils up within you at Hecate's presumption, and you're tempted for a moment to bring her into line by force, or else simply to return the haughty being to the realm from whence she came; but no, you're master enough of your emotions to see that would be too extreme, a waste of time and energy to no purpose. An explanation will doubtless resolve the circumstance, irritating though it may be.

>[ ] Tell the most simple truth, that even if no enemy kills you, you'll die at the end of the War unless you can obtain the Holy Grail.

>[ ] Tell the grander truth, that your goal in life is rise above all others, to rule the Moonlit World by right of power and redirect the course of mankind in accordance with your will.

>[ ] Lie and tell her that your wish for the grail is something else, which hopefully she'll find more appealing. (What?)

>[ ] Dismiss the question. Make it clear to Hecate that she can either help you or be sent back to her abuse at the hands of Hera. What you desire is irrelevent, for she's at your mercy.

>[ ] Do something else. (Write in)
>>
>>4067509
>[ ] Tell the grander truth, that your goal in life is rise above all others, to rule the Moonlit World by right of power and redirect the course of mankind in accordance with your will.
GIVE AFFECTIONS, RECEIVE EXISTENCE
>>
>>4067509
>[ ] Tell the grander truth, that your goal in life is rise above all others, to rule the Moonlit World by right of power and redirect the course of mankind in accordance with your will.
Given what we know of the morality of the Olympians, it's not a goal she'd necessarily find unworthy.

it's almost certainly a bad idea to mention the "returning the age of gods" plan, considering her opinion of them.
>>
>>4067566
>considering her opinion of them
Her opinion of the gods of whom she is one?
>>
>>4067569
Mainly of the other olympians, to be clear. She was terrified that ALBERICH wold send her back to them, and her testimony so far indicates they all abused her.

So while the appeal of potentially getting back power from the AOG returning might prove tempting in the long run, it's unlikely to overwhelm the frankly PTSD she seems to have now.
>>
>>4067573
*would.
Fuck it.
>>
>>4067566
If we do go through with AoG 2.0 as the endgame, can't she just shack up with some other pantheon or is there some sort of intrinsic binding to Olympus that prevents this
>>
>>4067575
No fucking clue. That said, if anyone can pull it off, it'd logically be a goddess of magic. Wonder how Circe would be affected?
>>
>>4067573
Remember why the other Olympians did it to her. If they were free once again it would be pointless to continue punishing her, so they would probably let her off.
>>
>>4067579
True, but as Circe has shown, and as most of Greek mythology has done, Olympians can bear a grudge for a really long time for little to no reason. We can only hope they won't be retarded.
Which is a longshot, but who knows, the gods might listen to us if we do succeed.
>>
>>4067509
>[ ] Tell the grander truth, that your goal in life is rise above all others, to rule the Moonlit World by right of power and redirect the course of mankind in accordance with your will.
If you do good enough, you could even make your own Pantheon, Hecate!
Maybe?
I guess?
>>
Hopefully, whatever remains of the Goddess of Magic Hecate within this abused girl will jump at the chance to rub it in the faces of the other Gods if she is instrumental in bringing the Age of Gods back by aiding us.

The other Gods would be forced to acknowledge how wrong they were and Hecate would be elevated to a station far beyond that which she lost.

And at that point, I'm sure if the Greeks wouldn't accept and reward her, any other Pantheon would welcome such a Goddess with open arms.
Hell, she might even be able to get a seat with the Babylonian Deities.
Maybe Quetz would take her in.

Now Hecate, I require you to surrender those A+s to me. I want to show Matsuda just how great the distance between us has become.
A rift no amount of training could overcome.
Superior skill doesn't make up the difference against an opponent twice your speed and five times your strength.
We could even go the absolute troll route and act as if we're only able to match his speed before we double accel his ass and shatter his legs with a kneestomp.

Disengage that, you coward.
>>
>>4067509
>[ ] Tell the grander truth, that your goal in life is rise above all others, to rule the Moonlit World by right of power and redirect the course of mankind in accordance with your will.
>>
This is a bit apropos of nothing, but I've been thinking since last night about all of KzOW's complaints, the decline in enthusiasm and player contribution since the early threads of Fate/Awakening Mirror, as well as what those two people who came in to complain about the Liliesviel romance said, and it's pretty depressing to think that the quest has built up all this negativity since I started running. I really feel I haven't done a very good job when it comes to player satisfaction. I may like what I've written, but if I'm not understanding what you folks want to get out of it, that's a real problem.
So, here are a few open-ended questions for all of you folks that have been reading: What do you want out of this quest? What do you most enjoy about it or find most interesting? What changes do you think would make it more enjoyable and interesting for you?
>>
>>4067994
One change I have been hoping to see for a while is the qm not responding to the one guy who's bitching to get attention and then getting emotional because FGO was namedropped.

There's nothing wrong with having a flat chest Sweets, those other girls just aren't mature enough to understand the appeal of a slender figure.
>>
>>4067994
>What do you want out of the quest
Well, back in Akeldama and Early Awakening for me it was all about the efforts of a broken human in surpassing his fellow man and standing above all others.
Of course, we lost that with the reveal that Alberich was never human and any lingering attachments he might have to his old life were cut away.
Of course, this can't be changed now, but I feel like it's a shift in our character not many of us cared for.
As for Alberich now...?
I guess taking over the world will do.

>most enjoy about it
For all my meaningless griping and babbling about things that are aren't that important anymore, it's a well written Fate quest. Of course, disagreements about specific mechanics are bound to arise because Nasu is a vague fuck who breaks all his own established rules anyway.

In some cases immediately.
Like, as soon as the story truly starts
(Gae Bolg and Arcueid regenerating from Death Line cuts go here.)

>what changes?
Now that's the killer question isn't it?
I don't know, personally.
As far as I'm concerned, other than a few nitpicks and parts of the quests that seemed to just drag on, you're doing great.
Though there is a problem in the villains now.
The only truly intimidating "villain" we've had in this part is Odin, and that's more because he's overpowered.
Harris is a joke.
Matsuda is a coward.
Shirou is Shirou.
Assassin is an annoyance.
Nobody feared Odysseus like they did Clint.
Saber was well used for our first encounter but would've been better to have had multiple fights with her ending with our near loss and withdrawal with Vaisset before finally conclusively losing
instead we simply stomped her on the rematch.

Achilles and Lumenza were a duo with potential, but they died like bitches.
>>
>>4067994
There's plenty of issues and plot points that need addressing right now like Shirou and company, Matsuda and Harris, Assassin, and our upcoming Odin fight but everyone's forgotten about them because there's no apparent urgency to dealing with them. We're just kind of doing what we feel like because it doesn't feel like it matters, and we're just waiting for you to decide when to progress the plot with some actual threats to deal with. I know you like the interpersonal drama, but that should exist alongside all these external forces against us, instead of in a vacuum.
>>
>>4068063
No no no
I want my day off. If Sweets is going to mobilize the plot against us I’d prefer he do it tomorrow. Our social supply lines need to be secured first so we don’t have to babysit 10 different people at once in a combat scenario.
>>
>>4068098
If it is our day off's destiny to be interrupted, I do so hope Hecate grants us affections here so we can beat the shit out of anyone who would try to ruin our day.

Try us, Harris
We'll tear your arms off and feed you your own spine.
>>
>>4068098
I'm just saying that it's why there's less enthusiasm. Less exciting shit happening in the quest.
>>
>>4068002
>One change I have been hoping to see for a while is the qm not responding to the one guy who's bitching to get attention and then getting emotional because FGO was namedropped.
I, too, would like to be more confident in my writing and able to dismiss criticism. As it is, though, I still feel inexperienced enough that I can't really ignore anything. Maybe if this quest ends well I'll be a bit more secure in the next one's quality.
>There's nothing wrong with having a flat chest Sweets, those other girls just aren't mature enough to understand the appeal of a slender figure.
Oh dear.This accusation about my identity is going to haunt me, isn't it?

>>4068028
>The revelation about Alberich's identity weakened the character
>Saber as a villain could've been handled better
>Lumenza as a villain should've had more time to be dangerous
>other than a few nitpicks you're doing great though there is a problem in the villains now
I've made some mistakes in running so far, but as you point out there's nothing I can do to change the past.
I hope I can write more some more impactful antagonists in future, and I'll work on raising the tension there. Since I don't see Harris as a joke or Matsuda as a coward, there's definitely some disconnect.

>>4068063
>>4068098
Here's a conflict that's been brewing for a while. I remember a similar conversation in Akeldama. Some of you seem to feel that you're lacking agency if threats keep forcing you to react, while some seem to feel that if you have downtime between threats it kills the tension. I'm trying to please both groups as best I can, but it's good to be reminded of both sides.
>>
>>4067509
>[ ] Tell the grander truth, that your goal in life is rise above all others, to rule the Moonlit World by right of power and redirect the course of mankind in accordance with your will.
>>4067994
>What do you want out of the quest
To vanquish your enemies, to chase them before you, to rob them of their wealth, to see those dear to them bathed in tears, to clasp to your bosom their wives and daughters.

>most enjoy about it
How descriptive you are about everything, I find it really nice and it actually seems as if I am reading an actual novel instead of a post in a mongolian basket weaving forum

>what changes?
I have to agree with Kz0w here, the only real fearful villain so far has been Odin, due to our nature now as a servant, this becomes quite hard to achieve besides "Overpowered Enemy8756", but I have faith that you might be able to instill dread in us some other way and would like to see it
Ganbare Sweets
>>
>>4068158
For me I think threats can be presented in a way that give us an opportunity to deal with them proactively instead of forcing us to react
>>
>>4067994
Right. long time view, only started posting last night.

It's an inherent problem that quests have, I know that much, but I personally feel as though there might be slightly too spread a focus? between individual training, waifu wars, studying different kinds of magic, the main HGW, the AOG subplot, and now this one coming about from the summoning, it can be difficult to keep anons on track.

I really enjoy the quest, but maybe for those who have complaints it could be connected.
>>
>>4067509
>[ ] Tell the grander truth, that your goal in life is rise above all others, to rule the Moonlit World by right of power and redirect the course of mankind in accordance with your will.

The only thing that doesn't fully satisfy me with this response is the obvious 'to what end?' Whether return the Age of Gods, found the one true pantheon, or God Emperor of Man, i'd prefer it to be the means than the goal.

>>4067994
>What do you want out of the quest/most enjoy about it?

I know I already said before but despite the player drama this has been, and still is the best quest I've been able to witness here, in both consistent quality and content, and regardless of how it turns out I'm along for the ride until the end.

>what changes?

Hindsight 20/20 but I feel most of our issues started with how Achilles was handled. From what I recall people felt compelled to eliminate him asap before we started losing powerups due to him steamrolling the other servants, any satisfaction we could've gained was lost when Odin revealed his identity and securing the kill and reduced the threat level of the others to mere fodder in comparison.
I could write another couple of paragraphs on how I feel it could've been handled better, but I know cant change what's already happened so i'm cutting here unless you'd actually like to hear them.

>I, too, would like to be more confident in my writing and able to dismiss criticism. As it is, though, I still feel inexperienced enough that I can't really ignore anything. Maybe if this quest ends well I'll be a bit more secure in the next one's quality.

It's at least coming from a place of wanting to write the best story you can, hopefully you don't go too far in the other direction and ignore criticism completely.
>>
Our goal might seem more palatable if we spin it into a "modern hero" angle
>>
>>4068466
>I could write another couple of paragraphs on how I feel it could've been handled better, but I know cant change what's already happened so i'm cutting here unless you'd actually like to hear them.
Go ahead. I've heard that it was unsatisfying a lot already, but as for how I could've done it better I'm still not really sure. Since I've been spending most of my writing time actively working on new stuff, I haven't really had the time to sit down and analyze that section in full to figure out what I should've done instead. If you have, I'm all ears.
>>
>>4068461
Glad you're enjoying the quest, and I'm happy to see you've joined the conversation!
I can't say whether this is a common thing to a lot of quests, since I don't read many, but the issue of spread focus is certainly one I've been thinking about. I'd like to weave the story together more effectively so these elements can all come into play together instead of feeling spread apart, but right now I'm definitely not excelling at that.

>>4068466
>The only thing that doesn't fully satisfy me with this response is the obvious 'to what end?'
That definitely is a question. I don't think Alberich knows yet, aside from a feeling of his own need to gratify his sense of superiority. There's a goal I have in mind that you could develop, but for the time being it hasn't really penetrated his thoughts yet. If you have any write-in additions to the goal of ambition, by all means post and see what others think.
>I know I already said before but despite the player drama this has been, and still is the best quest I've been able to witness here, in both consistent quality and content, and regardless of how it turns out I'm along for the ride until the end.
As ever, thanks for the support! I'm glad you're enjoying it in spite of my shortcomings; hopefully the quest will keep getting better.
>>
>>4068527
Its all from hindsight, had I been in your position at the time I can guarantee It would've been worse or things would be dragging so far we'd still be in Akeldama right now.
Anyway, basic draft so likely a few holes, I feel had we gone to get Lily's assistance, one reason or another she's unavailable and we instead run into Odin in the lobby.
Could've played off our confusion over his identity at the time, let us believe he was assassin to have him instead of assisting us directly he feeds us information, whether it comes through observation or a skill that gives a limited degree of omniscience up to you. When we tried to recruit them to deal with the Emiya's have him call us on our real enemy being Achilles, from how our previous fight went, if we could deal with him they wouldn't be a factor.
He reveals from his 'observations' that Lumenza's plan appears to be king of the hill, secure in the knowledge noone can really harm his invincible servant he seems to be content to sit it out and let 'us' kill each other off knowing anyone who wants the grail would have to eventually come for him. Would direct us to instead focus on growing stronger while directing us towards saber/archer. We would've been slightly weaker, but still able to handle them if we played our cards right and people might've been able to take them as a more credible threat without literal god hanging over our heads.
Naturally as soon as we ran Lily again she likely would've forced the issue to have Odin directly 'assist' but unless he's forced to he should've held back to see if we can really grow and handle it on our own instead of dealing with it himself.
Alternate timeline, this all happens and his identity still a secret i find the idea of running into "lancer vs lancer; both want a real fight" to be the most amusing way to reveal is identity.

Do i want a rewrite? Hell no(unless we reach the end of Alberich's story and you're up to start from the very beginning, then i'm down), this aside you've been handling things well, any other 'complaints' I had about the direction things were going, aside from wanting more social interactions with our party, are stuff you've been able to sell me on with further updates.
>>
>>4068615
>If you have any write-in additions to the goal of ambition, by all means post and see what others think.

I bring the question up more towards other players than you, personally i could go any of those ways so long as we nail something down.
If had to nail down what i'd like to see right now would be something along the lines of "the world cannot continue in its current state, to seek to reverse the decline of magic, and gain the power to act as the gatekeeper on who shall have a place in the new world"

Assuming we get that far, if for whatever reason we decide to let him through, I doubt Zeus would be too broken up about it if he gets to come back but Hera doesn't.
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>>4068827
>I doubt Zeus would be too broken up about it if he gets to come back but Hera doesn't.
>>
>>4067509
>[ ] Tell the grander truth, that your goal in life is rise above all others, to rule the Moonlit World by right of power and redirect the course of mankind in accordance with your will.

Using this to flesh it out a little more (from >>4068827)
>"the world cannot continue in its current state, to seek to reverse the decline of magic, and gain the power to act as the gatekeeper on who shall have a place in the new world"
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>>4068672
All that discussion with Odin probably would've given your relationship with Liliesviel to develop a bit more gradually too, so people might not have been caught by surprise to the degree they were. It's definitely an interesting idea.
The biggest waste of a charadcter is definitely Odysseus. I originally wanted to have him play a much larger role in the story, which is why he's voiced by Sugita. In one concept I had, he was even going to be your Servant in the Akeldama Grail War. In the end, though, I feel like things just didn't work out for him.

Anyway, thank you for all your feedback, everyone. I'm sorry that I didn't get anything written today. I know that my update pace is the biggest flaw everyone wants to see me improve on...
Unfortunately I've only just gotten home from work, so I'm pretty tired. I'll definitely get started early tomorrow, though! I promise!
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>>4069492
Speaking of odysseus and things not being used to their full extent, I wonder if he ever used the winds as a jetpack?
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>>4069492
>The biggest waste of a charadcter is definitely Odysseus. I originally wanted to have him play a much larger role in the story
I wouldn’t call it a waste so much as the players quickly identified a major threat and went out of our way to make sure to end him ASAP. We didn’t want to have to deal with another Archer rival like Clint Eastwood.
>>
"To determine whether I am worthy of divine assistance in gaining my ambition," you echo, pronouncing each word slowly, as if savoring the humor of the concept, and forcing a wry smile to your face as you do so in spite of the anger boiling within you. "I have no doubt you'll enjoy an easy time of that," you continue, "for it isn't so difficult to understand. Ambition is certainly the proper word for it. You see, Hecate, my reason for seeking to obtain the Holy Grail is no more or less than a desire for unparalleled power. It is my intention to rise above all others, and by that superiority to take into my hands and govern the affairs of the world. Obtaining the Holy Grail, and thereby escaping from this War with my life intact, is merely the first step on the road to that ambition's satisfaction."

"I see..." Hecate replies, in a soft and thoughtful tone. As you've spoken, the emotion has faded from her face, so that she has seemed to gradually withdraw mentally into that serene place of distant noninvolvement from which the Gods are wont to judge the affairs of mankind. Now, for a silent moment, she gives you a tranquil, contemplative stare, endeavoring to pierce into your mind and read your heart by the expression in your eyes. Within you the fury at her presumption continues to rise, but under that searching gaze you tamp it down, choke it back, and keep on your face the grave expression of one divulging a noble and meaningful ambition.

At length she seems to arrive at some sort of conclusion for she resolves to continue her interrogation, asking, "Are you, then, the scion of some ancient royal house, pressing an ancestral right to rule over mankind?"

"No," you answer quickly. "I'm afraid you couldn't be farther from the truth there, in fact. I have no bloodline or ancestry whatsoever, for I was created from whole cloth by a singularly potent magical ritual. All that I have achieved, and all that I intend to achieve, is the result of my own efforts and existence."

At this, Hecate breathes in a faint gasp, delicately hiding her mouth behind a hand. "Can men do such things even without divine aid?" she muses, only half aloud and plainly to herself; then she regains her composure, and asks, "In that case, why do you not devote yourself to the service of mankind? As humans, created by the Gods, were our servants, an intelligent being created by human hands should surely not seek to stand above humanity."
>>
"There you are in error," you reply, half growling now, for it's really taking all your efforts of self control to keep from taking this woman by the throat and humbling her. "Humanity was created as a set of beings inferior to the Gods," you explain, "and if I were similarly inferior to humans you would have a point; but this is not so. Humans have ever sought to remedy their faults, and one such project is the creation of life which exceeds them. I was created to be superior to humans, that I might stand above and lead them as the ancient heroes born of one divine and one human parent did. Thus my pursuit of rule is as much a claiming of birthright as any prince's adventuring quest for his father's throne was in the days when you last dwelt on earth."

"I certainly do understand your reasoning," Hecate says thoughtfully, one hand absently toying with the ribbon that hangs from her dress as she speaks. "Still, I hope you won't think me too ungrateful if I say I have to consider this further. Normally a Goddess would watch over the entire life of a young man before making him her champion, or otherwise favor him only for the duration of a goal she'd set him..." She gives you an almost pleading look as she continues, "You understand, don't you? I can't just resolve to bless your quest for power as soon as our meeting."

>[ ] "Think about it all you like, then. For the moment, I have other business to attend to." (Go to some other part of the house. Where, or who do you want to see? What's your next goal for the day?)

>[ ] "You seem to be overestimating the power you hold here; the Age of Gods is long over, and with it your authority. I've humored you long enough. You'll tell me what you can do to aid me, or I'll sever the summoning contract that keeps you here and return you to Hera."

>[ ] "Of course I understand. Since you can't watch my life from Olympus, though, no doubt you'll want to accompany me as I go about my business. Come with me, then, and I'll introduce you to another of my compatriots." (Who?)

>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)
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>>4069913
>[ ] "Of course I understand. Since you can't watch my life from Olympus, though, no doubt you'll want to accompany me as I go about my business. Come with me, then, and I'll introduce you to another of my compatriots." (Who?)
Let's go see Odin.
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>>4069913
Then in the meantime I'd appreciate some instruction for my magecraft. I need some sort of concrete benefit to your summoning.
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>>4069913
>[ ] "Of course I understand. Since you can't watch my life from Olympus, though, no doubt you'll want to accompany me as I go about my business. Come with me, then, and I'll introduce you to another of my compatriots." (Who?)
AYAKA
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>>4069939
Although if she’s still asleep I don’t mind starting with Odin
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>>4069913
>[ ] "Of course I understand. Since you can't watch my life from Olympus, though, no doubt you'll want to accompany me as I go about my business. Come with me, then, and I'll introduce you to another of my compatriots." (Who?)
Odin.
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>>4069761
That's true enough. When I say he wasn't used properly, it's not so much that I feel he should've survived longer as that I feel he should've started playing an active role in the story much earlier. Like I said though, it didn't work out. He was always just over the horizon, occupied with something else, and you somehow didn't encounter him 'til the end of his story.
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>>4069913
>[ ] "Of course I understand. Since you can't watch my life from Olympus, though, no doubt you'll want to accompany me as I go about my business. Come with me, then, and I'll introduce you to another of my compatriots." (Who?) Probably someone like Ayaka. If we has got one more (ex) god to put under her roof, warning her seems important.

Although, now that i think about it, she's only missed out on seeing a few weeks of our life anyway.
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>>4069913
>[ ] "Of course I understand. Since you can't watch my life from Olympus, though, no doubt you'll want to accompany me as I go about my business. Come with me, then, and I'll introduce you to another of my compatriots."
Odin
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Why Odin? I don't get it.
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>>4070353
Why not?
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>>4070354
He's our enemy, they're the only two gods living in the real world at this time. Which is more than we can say we have in common with Hecate.
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>>4070354
And we have a ton of more productive things to be doing instead of a meet and greet for our new summon.
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>>4070354
I don’t mind introducing Hecate to him but as soon as Ayaka wakes up we gotta introduce them and have the friendship begin. Then we talk magic with Circe as a way to work out how to improve and ease tensions.
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>>4070360
we could ask Odin about Magic as well
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Real question: do we even know where Odin is? Like where in the house?
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>>4070369
in one of the rooms of course
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>>4070403
Get out of here, Sherlock. Rulers are not allowed in this war.
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>>4070407
you see Kz0W, the thing is, game was rigged from the start
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>>4070410
Pfft, you can prove literally anything if you try.
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>>4070403
Sure but does Alberich know which? I thought he shared a room with Lily but he wasn't there when we went to her room to get Circe.
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>>4070616
We don't really need to know, we can just go around looking for "Otto" until we find him.
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>>4070524
You have to admit, his outfit does look weirdly similar to a gakuran.

>>4069919
>>4069949
>>4070134
Seems like we have a slight majority for taking her to see Odin so far. Mind letting me in on what your goals are with that? I have to say, it's not really a choice I'd expected.
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>>4070919
I wanted to throw her off-balance because I don't like the fact that her pride is starting to show again.
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>>4070919
...I still can't see any real reason to do that.
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>>4070919
I'll switch to taking her to see Ayaka actually.
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Okay, this pace is just absurd now. What's even the point of this whole Hecate distraction? You're killing me Sweets. If nothing interesting was gonna happen with her then why allow us to summon her? Let's get a move on, I'm begging you. Having such open ended votes while nothing is actually going on leads to even less going on.
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>>4071078
Sorry to be rude, I know some people like this stuff but it's really just gone too far at this point for my tastes. I got a little too heated there. I should probably take a break for a few days.
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>>4071078
Summoning Hecate is more interesting than studying Vaisset's notes and it'll probably be more useful in the long run. Chill.
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>>4071085
>Summoning Hecate is more interesting than studying Vaisset's notes
sure
>and it'll probably be more useful in the long run
She'd better be or I'm voting to send her back with a snarky comment like "Tell Hera I'm deeply sorry for stealing her footstool".
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>>4071078
>>4071083
Sorry the pace isn't working for you right now. I am trying to move things along, but to be honest I have a lot going on IRL now and I'm sure that level of distraction has been eating into my writing.
In any case, I'm writing the next update now.
>>
To be honest, I thought you folks had a more specific plan for what you wanted to do today, moving toward the whole "shoring up social connections" thing you've been discussing; and that you'd take a step in that direction once I opened things up with this last choice. That's why the votes to introduce Hecate to Odin took me by surprise.
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>>4071192
I think Hecate's summoning threw all our plans into disarray.
Now I feel obligated to get something out of the useless sack of mana.
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>>4038159
I'm still mad we didn't get an h-scene for this. Quest has been running for almost a year, our guy finally gets laid, and nothing? Where's the anon who wrote one for overgrowth?
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"Of course I understand," you say, the growl that hasn't yet left your voice making clear that in spite of your words you couldn't be further from approval of Hecate's decision. Then, smoothing your tone and adding a note of acid mockery, you continue, "Since you can't watch my life from Olympus, no doubt you'll want to accompany me as I go about my business. Come with me, then, and I'll introduce you to another of my compatriots."

With that, you turn on your heel and stride from the room, making quickly for the stairs. You've had enough of trying to justify yourself to this woman down here; you don't know whether meeting the others who share your goal will sway her toward your cause at all, but it will at least provide a change of pace, and get them used to her presence. Who, though, would be the best choice to introduce to Hecate first after Circe? Liliesviel is the obvious answer, but after her strenuous night you're sure she'll still be asleep. As your mind wanders over the other residents of the manor, one name leaps out to you as perfect for Hecate: Ayaka! Here, of course, is another gentle, easily discouraged soul who ought to be a far more pleasant companion for Hecate than Circe has thus far. Besides that, she's been wholly supportive and seems to think the world of your intentions, so you've no doubt she'll speak well of you to Hecate. It's a perfect idea.

No sooner have you come to that decision, it seems, than Hecate catches up to you in the hall. The woman must have paused, taken aback, before rushing to follow you, because she's now breathing heavily and wobbling unsteadily in your peripheral vision."Alberich-san," she pants, "I do apologize if I've... hah... offended you, but you must understand that there are certain... fuu... rules of conduct regarding mortals that, as a divine being, I must follow."

"To be sure," you reply in a tone laden with sarcasm, keeping your steps quick as you walk so that the irritating goddess is forced to strain to keep up. "Naturally you must follow the appropriate protocols. What would your fellow Olympians think if you failed to properly judge the one who brought you out of your servitude and anchors you to this world before aiding him? Why, they might be so disappointed in the affront you gave to divine honor as to consider inflicting some sort of punishment on you!"

"Uuuuu..." Hearing an inarticulate moan for a response, you glance over at the woman following you. Sure enough, her ears have lost all their vigor, and hang down to frame moist, wavering eyes and an expression once more on the cusp of crying. "Well..." she tries to begin.
>>
"I am not offended," you say with a sigh, forcing the anger from your voice. You suppose there's no reason to be so frustrated with Hecate over this. After all that she's experienced, you can hardly be surprised that she finds it difficult to decide what she ought to do; and yet there's something in her manner that just makes it so easy to be infuriated. Perhaps it's the simple fact that she's judging you; have you been truly judged, you consider, by anyone else? It's not an experience agreeable to you, in any case. All the same, if you're to improve matters there's no point in taking out your frustrations on her and becoming another oppressor for her to resent. So thinking, you put on the gallant, gentle expression and tone you've so often used to comfort Ayaka, and say, "Although I was somewhat taken aback, and spoke harshly as a result, I do understand your position. Having been freed from servitude, you are eager to resume the mode of behavior you exhibited as a Goddess. All the same, I hope you will understand my perspective as well. I was, as you know, expecting to summon a familiar, not a judge. Let us put the matter behind us."

"Ah, um, yes, I see," Hecate stammers, taken aback once more by your sudden reversal of manner. Indeed, she seems so affected by your manner that she takes half a step back from you as you speak, seeming to fear another reversal to perhaps-brutal anger. Still, if you were unable to comfort her you've at least cowed the judgmental woman and smoothed the matter over as best you can.

With the conversation thus resolved and your walk completed, you stop, turn to Ayaka's door, and knock three times. Given the time, you half expect her not to have awoken yet, but you're happily surprised by a clear, fully-awake voice from within replying, "Come in. Saber-san, is that you?"

"Indeed," you reply, opening the door to walk in and see Ayaka sitting up in bed. Although clad only in a nightgown, she's wearing her glasses and has a book open on her lap; from the archaic appearance of the cover and binding, one of the older volumes of her family's chronicles. Far from having been woken up by your arrival, you surmise, the girl has been awake for some time and has simply chosen to stay in bed and read. Your thoughts are wandering untethered, you realize; you pull them back and, without letting your pause grow to an uncomfortable length, continue, "Good Morning, Miss Ayaka. A bit of good news for you: I succeeded in summoning a second being from the Realm of Imaginary Numbers this morning, and as such I have an introduction to make to you. This," you say, sweeping a hand out to indicate Hecate, "is the latest being brought to our world by my Noble Phantasm, the former Goddess of Magic, Hecate." Then, to Hecate, you add, "And this is the magus by whose side I fight, of whom I spoke to you earlier: Miss Shijou Ayaka."
>>
"Really?" Ayaka asks, eying Hecate with interest. "A former Goddess... Saber-san, your sword really can do all sorts of incredible things. Well, I'm pleased to meet you, Hecate-san. Will you be helping us to win the Holy Grail War as well?"

"Likewise, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Ayaka-san," Hecate replies, answering with trepidation, "I am not yet certain what my involvement in the Holy Grail War will be. I haven't yet determined whether or not I can make Alberich-san my champion. But," she hastily appends, "I'll certainly do whatever I can otherwise to repay the two of you for your kindness in bringing me here, and giving me a place to stay!" At this Ayaka shoots you a questioning look, noting that she's mentioned nothing about providing Hecate with a residence. By your telepathic link you confirm that neither have you; although a summoned being like her will most likely stay with you, it certainly does speak to the goddess' odd combination of humility and presumption.

>[ ] "Well then," you say, "I'll leave the two of you to get acquainted. Miss Ayaka, I'm sure that there's plenty about which you'd enjoy asking one as knowledgeable in magic as she, no?" On your own, leave to see another resident or visit another room. (Who, where, and why?)

>[ ] "Now, you've heard how my magical studies have progressed. What about your own, Miss Ayaka? How goes the research into your ancestors' writings?"

>[ ] Ask Hecate to step out of the room for a moment now that the introduction is completed, and then tell Ayaka about the confirmation of your relationship with Liliesviel last night.

>[ ] Bring up another subject to discuss with Ayaka. (What?)

>[ ] Say/do something else. (Write in)
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>>4071448
>[ ] "Well then," you say, "I'll leave the two of you to get acquainted. Miss Ayaka, I'm sure that there's plenty about which you'd enjoy asking one as knowledgeable in magic as she, no?" On your own, leave to see another resident or visit another room. (Who, where, and why?)
Adelheid, see diaries
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>>4071448
>[ ] "Now, you've heard how my magical studies have progressed. What about your own, Miss Ayaka? How goes the research into your ancestors' writings?"
We need to spend more time with one of the best girls
Jesus Christ, that Lily vote is 100 percent worth a "kill yourself, Alberich."
>>
Hecate better give us Affections by the time night comes around so we can choose to bully our enemies as we please.
Who knows, might even be time to capture Rider if we get those ridiculous buffs we seek.

And I want full rank ups to A+ too damn it. It's about time we bullied Matsuda as all elder brothers should bully their younger siblings and a mere numeric +5 to our attributes won't allow us to properly do that like being double his speed would.
Hell, he could even try to run away and we could just chase him, or have Tsubaki or Circe scry for him.

Kind of unfair that an enemy Shirou and Medusa barely even managed to draw against is coming back far far more powerful than before.
Better hope Rin got the Jewel Sword because otherwise they are FUCKED.

I wonder what Truvi and Luvia are up to.
Hopefully not trying to betray us, otherwise the two of them will need to get suited to their new lives as whatever animal takes Circe's fancy.
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>>4071448
>>4071453
This
>>
Damn! Thread was EMPTY last night.
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This is ridiculous. What's the point of this day off? Now we don't even know what to do next.
We need a real plan for what we're trying to get done today like Sweets was talking about
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>>4071795
Yeah, I don't know what that's about, I guess Sweets just updated too late.

>>4071872
The point of the day off is to improve our relationships and our power. Hecate allows us to massively boost our power if she grants us her Affections, and has kind of rearranged the day around her.

Vaisset's notes will improve our magical capacity by a massive amount too. Effectively having the capability to accomplish anything with our magic.

With the two combined, we'll have enough strength to crush the rest of the war bar Odin, and Assassin (Maybe Matsuda and Medusa too!) will grant us an additional upgrade and we also might be able to use Tsubaki's Ritual when we find out what it does.
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>>4071896
You don't think we're getting Affections in a day do you? I don't think Hecate sounds like she'll be ready to bless us that quick.
>Vaisset's notes will improve our magical capacity by a massive amount too.
I said this before but how? Sure they're useful for a loser like him with only one or two shitty real elements to work with but what do they do for us? How is producing wind-aligned magic or whatever going to make a serious difference from what we're using now?
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>>4071920
The ability to use magecraft with lasting effects that can't simply be fucked instantly by anti magic.

Matsuda would be especially fucked if we just encased his feet in stone.

Don't be overconfident.
Don't underestimate the usefulness being an Average One (sorta) brings us.

Tsubaki is an Average One so with these notes we basically get to destroy her self esteem.
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>>4071920
>what do they do for us
Glad you asked, anon.

The first thing I need to say is that we can't use the Real Elements right now except Void, and that's useless for now. The first thing we get out of it is elemental attacks: fireballs, wind blades, you get the idea. The second thing we get is new Elements to mould with our Attributes -- for example, Circe noted once that using Absorption with Water would give us power over living beings by applying the attribute that controls to the element that affects flesh.
If we can use the five Real Elements, it would open up new horizons.
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>>4071938
Also, if we manage a magical breakthrough, it should go a long way towards making Hecate think we are worthy of her aid.
A double whammy power-up.

Here's hoping (unlikely) we can get Magic to A or A+ so we can really spam our abilities. We will be the greatest mage of all.
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Wow, that is not very many votes.
Even though we do technically have a majority, I'm going to hope that people just haven't had time to vote and wait until 7PM PST to call it and start writing.
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>>4072311
We do seem to have something of a lack for this vote.
Wonder what's causing it.
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>>4071448
>[ ] "Well then," you say, "I'll leave the two of you to get acquainted. Miss Ayaka, I'm sure that there's plenty about which you'd enjoy asking one as knowledgeable in magic as she, no?" On your own, leave to see another resident or visit another room.
The Adel Heid Diaries.
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>>4071966
You really want the bunny to put out, don't you?
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>>4072379
She fuckin better.
Otherwise I will ensure we get Tsubaki to treat her even worse than Hera did.
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>>4071448
>[ ] Say/do something else. (Write in)
>So Hecate, you provided instruction for human magicians in the Age of Gods, right? My master's specialization happens to be in sacrificial magic. I'd like to go into more detail but there are constraints regarding "mystery" that may weaken its potency if I were to tell you exactly how it worked, so please pardon my vagueness. Anyhow, do you happen to have any general tips an aspiring mage learning sacrificial witchcraft should know? And while we're at it why don't you try to give a little demonstration of what you're capable of in your current state? No pressure, just want to see what we have to work with. Now Ayaka, I'm sure you'd know better than me how to guide this conversation so why don't you take things from here?
We can't hog all the powerups for ourselves, our friends need to get stronger too.

On that note, I'm going to make a to-do list that we can try to go through today. Will generally follow what I'd expect would be reasonable chronological order but can be swapped around or added to of course.

1) Check on K-hime and Rushorou. Ask the former who she's willing to reveal her identity to. We vaguely mentioned her to Adelheid who noted an interest into making her acquaintance but so far her privacy is still intact. Ask Rushorou just what he'd been thinking mouthing off to us over the phone when his situation was so precarious. We might have been able to spare him some pain had he been a bit more cooperative.

2) See how Adelheid's doing with the cipher and introduce her to K-hime if possible. Also see if she'd be willing to put her Charisma A to use and try to unite the gang a little more (and tell her about Hecate, same goes for K-hime at this point if she wasn't aware yet).

3) Find Circe and ask her to sit down with us and work on magic like the good old days. Lay on the charm if at all possible.

4) Ask Odin what he wants from the Grail. In the off-chance we end up defeating him, we'd like to know what he wanted because if it's not objectionable to use we can send him out like Senator Armstrong and fulfill his dream for him.

(1/2)
>>
(2/2)
Lower priority:
- Work on a way to temporarily detain the Edelfelt sisters and search them for Command Seals. The list of masters for Assassin is pretty damn short at this point and the Zelretch faction is the one who gives no fucks about crashing the Grail with no winner. Same goes for Rin. If none of those 3 have Assassin's Command Seals then I'll be quite perplexed.
- Call Shirou and tell him that the war has had too many mass-casualty events for our liking so if he's still planning on trying to kill us we're open to arranging the conflict in a way that limits the possibility of someone getting desperate and causing civilian casualties like what's been happening lately.
-- IMPORTANT NOTE -- WE ADMIT NO INVOLVEMENT IN THE RECENT MASS-CASUALTY EVENTS! WE JUST SAY WE WANT TO PREVENT NEW ONES FROM OCCURRING AND LEAVE IT AT THAT
- Ask Lily how her magic works since we haven't seen her in action yet

>>4072379
No he's just shamelessly begging for powerups from her even though we met literally minutes ago in-game.
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>>4072415
Asshole we've been wanting affections since we murdered Achilles.
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>>4072420
Be more realistic. I can see us having Affections E at best right now, which could grow over time as Hecate comes to like us more. It's not like we're going to come close to matching the favor Apollo had for Paris or Thetis had for her son from a weakened Hecate who we literally just met.

Sweets has implied that Affections' potency is a function of both strength of the deity (not terribly high right now) and strength of the deity's affection (also not terribly high right now).
So be patient.
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>>4072432
Sweets implied it was something different from both though.
Besides, we've aided Hecate more than almost any mortal has ever aided a deity already.
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>>4072439
>Sweets implied it was something different from both though
Ehh, I kind of read it as being a sort of multivariable-function. Thetis had higher affection, Apollo had higher power, so they balanced out. Artemis had massive power and affection, so Orion is a GIGACHAD as a result.
Hecate has low power and low affection currently, so we can't expect too much until we either get her to like us more, buff the crap out of her, or (preferably) both. Plus she hasn't even made the first step of designating us as her champion, which is probably when we'd get Affections E (with the possibility to level up over time).
At least that was my impression.
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Oh, and any suggestions to add to the to-do list?
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>>4072446
>Orion
Hasn't got Affections and can't have it without getting hijacked by Artemis.

It'll be very disappointing if what decides Affections is just the two most obvious things, especially after Sweets revealed he'd put a lot of thought into it.

Also, you underestimate the importance of being made the Champion of a Goddess I feel.
It's not exactly a first step for most.
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>>4072452
>It'll be very disappointing if what decides Affections is just the two most obvious things
I mean sure he could add some qualitative flavor if he wanted to. Desu I don't really have a dog in this game since I don't care that much about powerups right now. It's the things that don't make it onto the stat-sheet that interest me more.
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>>4072452
>It sure would suck if Sweets put a bunch of thought into this and just came to the most logical conclusion
No. That's fucking stupid. The ideal thing would be for him to be logical instead of inventing some fucked-in-the-head system to be "interesting". He said it was obvious anyway.
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>>4072462
I just want the ability to slap Emiya n Pals into the ground.
Sakura is still sort of a danger to us if she freaks out.

>>4072465
Bark like a dog, mongrel!
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>>4072472
>Sakura is still sort of a danger to us if she freaks out.
Not that I approve of this plan, but if it bothers you wouldn't you just try to assassinate her and be spared the trouble? Futodoki and K-hime wouldn't mind Operation Sneaky Sneak and an Oni-strength claw to the head should be fatal if it takes her off-guard.

But I digress as this is diverting from more pressing concerns.

Lurkers, please vote!
Preferably for my write-in
(yes I'll shamelessly beg on this point)
>>
>>4071448
>>4072411

I like the idea, comes off like were not just dumping off Hecate with her and leaving, plus if it actually pans out at the very least we might get better gains off of future sacrifices.
>>
>>4072492
>claw to the head should be fatal
>to Sakura
Shit I don't know man, sounds like an excellent way for Tsubaki to go the way of Gilgamesh.
Just with more "ANI-UE TASUKETEEEEEE!"
>>
>>4071448
>[ ] "Now, you've heard how my magical studies have progressed. What about your own, Miss Ayaka? How goes the research into your ancestors' writings?"
then proceed to>>4072411

I'm also pretty sure that at our current state, we can beat the shit out of Shirou and co(except Sakura)
What should we do with them when we beat them? Make Shirou into our Hound? Lolify Rider? Let them be after signing up like 10 geass about never troubling us again?
>>
>>4072547
>I'm also pretty sure that at our current state, we can beat the shit out of Shirou and co(except Sakura)
It depends, Medusa as she is right now is a non-threat to us, we hard counter all she can pull off so she isn't an issue.
Rin could fuck our shit with the Jewel Sword if they can make it.
Shirou is a walking library of asspull weaponry and a traced Caladbolg II from the proper distance will wreck us.

And Sakura is Sakura, so underestimating her is a good way to die.

>Make Shirou into our Hound?
Eh, maybe.
Poor guy just can't catch a break.
>Lolify Rider?
Of course.
>Let them be after signing up like 10 geass about never troubling us again?
Rule Breaker gg.
>>
>>4072411
>>4072547
I'll go ahead and tack on the pre-made question before the write-in part.
>>
You know, in hindsight, if we didn't want to get beaten up so much, we probably shouldn't have modelled ourselves after Kira.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlbV8z71yX0
>>
>>4072562
>Rin could fuck our shit with the Jewel Sword if they can make it.
what if we hit her sword with our sword first?
>Shirou is a walking library of asspull weaponry and a traced Caladbolg II from the proper distance will wreck us.
just use Kenótis instead of Hellig gg
>Sakura is Sakura, so underestimating her is a good way to die.
an ideal victory is one where we only face Shirou and Rider, Rin at max. Maybe we can let Sakura and Odin brawl and see what happens, I guess?
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>>4072612
>what if we hit her sword with our sword first
>The kaleidoscope-like jewel blade creates a small opening to the same area in another parallel world,
>hitting a portal to a parallel world with a portal to Imaginary Number Space
We all stop existing and everyone in Japan fucking dies. Might even wipe out humanity.
Maybe on two worlds!

>just use Kenótis instead of Hellig gg
Hrunting GG
It would course correct and avoid Heilig.

>an ideal victory is one where we only face Shirou and Rider, Rin at max.
We can likely deal with them.

>Maybe we can let Sakura and Odin brawl and see what happens, I guess?
Unless he's a Gil tier jobber, Odin takes it.
>>
>>4072621
Kenotis, not Heilig.
>>
>>4072621
>Hrunting GG
Then why didn't he use it the first time?
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>>4072691
If Intelligence was a stat, he would have it ranked at E---
>>
Unless I miss my count, we're presently tied with three votes for the write-in at >>4072411, and three votes for going to see Adelheid after introducing Ayaka and Hecate.
>>
>>4072411
+1
>>
Hey there, folks. Something has come up, and I won't be able to write tonight.
Because of that, I want to combine the next two scenes into one extra-long update for tomorrow, and since I'm pretty sure your votes won't change for the second based on the events of the first, I'll post the choice now.
After discussing the possibility of having Hecate teach Ayaka and getting a short demonstration, who do you want to see next?

>[ ] Discuss who Kōrakuhime is and is not willing to reveal her identity to, and generally check in with her.

>[ ] See how Rushorou is faring and where he's been billeted, and ask him any questions you have about the time he spent with Circe and Adelheid.

>[ ] Check Adelheid's progress on decoding Vaisset's notes.

>[ ] See how the maids are coming along with morning chores and when breakfast will be, so you can be sure to keep up a routine of everyone in the manor sharing meals.

>[ ] Visit someone else for some other purpose. (Write in)
>>
>>4072893
>[ ] Check Adelheid's progress on decoding Vaisset's notes.
>>
>>4072893
>>[ ] See how the maids are coming along with morning chores and when breakfast will be, so you can be sure to keep up a routine of everyone in the manor sharing meals.
>>
>>4072893
>[ ] See how Rushorou is faring and where he's been billeted, and ask him any questions you have about the time he spent with Circe and Adelheid.
I'm sure it will be quite informative.
>>
>>4072893
>[ ] Check Adelheid's progress on decoding Vaisset's notes.
EVERYTHING ELSE CAN WAIT DO THIS NOW
>>
>>4072924
Why?
I mean, sure, I'll switch.
but why?
>>
>>4072956
Because I've been waiting since the beginning of Awakening Mirror for this and I'm on the edge right now.
>>
>>4072893
>>[ ] Discuss who Kōrakuhime is and is not willing to reveal her identity to, and generally check in with her.

Because someone's got to, really i just don't see us gaining much from Rushorou we don't already know and checking on Adelheid's progress seems like a case of "it'll be done when it's done, it isn't going to go any faster if we check on her every few minutes".
>>
>>4072893
>Discuss who Kōrakuhime is and is not willing to reveal her identity to, and generally check in with her.
That way we can potentially introduce her to Adelheid next
>>
>>4073101
>checking on Adelheid's progress seems like a case of "it'll be done when it's done, it isn't going to go any faster if we check on her every few minutes"
She got a whole night to do it.
>>
>>4073273
>implying the lazy ex-dictator didn't just sleep all night
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>>4073407
She doesn't need to and she should be eager to prove her worth again.
We're totally taking her to introduce to Tsubaki after though.
>>
>>4072893
>[ ] Check Adelheid's progress on decoding Vaisset's notes.
>>
So, assuming we get the buffs we need to stomp him utterly, how do we make our entrance to fight Shirou?

Do we send a letter or do we just show up from out of nowhere with our full faction at our back?
Shirou doesn't hate us, hilariously enough.
Not like he instinctively hates Gil and EMIYA at least.
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>>4073695
We use our ultimate holy weapon Orbital-Calibur to destroy the family instantly.
>>
>>4073729
But EATS
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>>4073695
The gentlemanly thing to do would be to send him a letter.
I knew writing that letter in >>4040296 was a good idea.
>>
>>4074360
Man, imagine if we instruct him to come to a specific location and it's just us and 4 (maybe 5) other Servants. (and Hecate, sure why not)
"Game over Emiya."

I wonder if Circe or Hecate have ever seen Medusa before.
>>
Update when?
>>
>>4074629
Considering Sweets' erratic work hours and last night's "something came up" with silence today I think this might be a cursed hiatus.
>>
>>4074653
Eh, he'll be back.
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>>4074656
What if I didn't come back, hmm? You'd feel awful about your cavalier attitude.

>>4074653
Does work count as the curse?

>>4074629
I'm writing now, but after a work day that ran from nine in the morning 'til nine at night I'm a bit drained, so my apologies if it takes a while. I'm hoping that copious amounts of black tea and turkish delight will invigorate my creativity.
>>
>>4074663
Is the moon out?
>>
>>4074663
But you did come back didn't you, hmm?
Now who's acting cavalier?
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>>4074667
Yes, it's right overhead. Why do you ask?
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>>4074674
I guessed you were having turkish delight on a moonlit night.
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>>4074663
>long day of IRL stuff to do
>comes home tired
>tea and candy instead of alcohol
Sweets, you really are a teenage girl aren't you? I bet that "work" was really a family thing you couldn't get out of.
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>>4074784
Imagine needing to reinforce your own concept of masculinity with the consumption of liquid piss.
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>>4074784
>>4074790
Anon accuses me of being a teenage girl once again. Bnon lumps all alcohol under the insult of "liquid piss". I am disappointed in both of you.
I am not a teenage girl! I do drink from time to time, just not every night. If, hypothetically, I were one, though, I would obviously not drink, because it's a classically masculine thing to do and what with the below-average height and slim build I really need to stack up as much charm under feminine behavior as possible.
>>
>>4074871
There is no shame in being a teenage girl. All of us are actually teenage girls.
>>
"Well, Hecate, that is certainly kind of you," you say, smoothing over the moment of awkward silence prompted by Ayaka's lack of a reply. "Despite your limitations, I'm sure that whatever form of assistance you can bring yourself to provide us will be invaluable, and much appreciated." So saying, you dip your head in a nod to the Goddess, making a grateful gesture which either belies or lends an added sting to the irony of your comment, depending on the temperament of the observer. That neither of the girls' thoughts should linger on this, though, you quickly change the topic. "Now then, Miss Ayaka," you say, "you've heard of how my magical research has progressed, and seen the result of my continued attempts; how goes your own studying? Made any significant discoveries in your ancestors' chronicles?"

By way of reply, Ayaka breathes a sigh of regret as her eyes turn to the book on her lap. "My most significant discovery, Saber-san," she begins, "has been how far behind I am. I've been reading a lot, and making a pretty good pace for how old these journals are, but there's just so much. So much knowledge to absorb, so much work that went into developing that knowledge over the years... my family goes back a long time, you know; it seems like I'll never get to the end of it and learn everything they left behind for me."

"Come now," you say hearteningly, giving Ayaka a gleaming smile. "I'm sure that isn't true. Your predecessors all read their forebears' journals, didn't they? There must be some way of speeding your progress, then."

Ayaka returns your smile, but there's an edge of mockery in it that you can't help thinking looks out of place on the gentle girl's face. "I wish you were right, Saber-san," she replies, "but you're putting too much faith in my family's diligence. Most of them didn't bother with these books; they learned the essentials from the family head while they were heir, and then wrote their own work down while they were the head. As for the ones who did read the chronicles, well..." she pauses for a moment, breath catching in her throat, before finishing, "they were a lot smarter than me. My mother was a ten times better magus than I am by my age; I'm sure she had an easier time reading these books, too."

For a moment you're left speechless, uncertain of how to respond to this blunt display of the low regard in which Ayaka holds herself. Previously you've salved her inferiority complex as a Master by pointing out the importance of her family's magic in your strategy toward the War, but if she now feels humbled by a lack of proficiency with that self-same magic how can you respond?
>>
It's only for a short time, though, that you're at a loss. You quickly hit upon a new idea of comfort, and with your composure recovered point out, "You're hardly making a fair comparison, Miss Ayaka. It's a fact you've drawn to my attention many times that you've allowed your magical studies to lapse during your parents' absence. The difference you see between yourself and your mother isn't due to a deficiency of talent on your part, but only the difference in the circumstances of your learning. But say," you continue, shifting your focus once more, "that sparks an idea. Hecate, you taught the magical arts to humans during the Age of Gods, did you not?"

"Yes, I did," Hecate answers hesitantly, her ears perking up in token of the nervousness brought on by your sudden attention on her.

"Perfect," you reply. "Miss Ayaka specializes in a form of sacrificial magic developed by her family, but as you've heard is suffering from the lack of a teacher. Although I cannot go into more detail due to the constraints of 'mystery', perhaps you can aid her. Do you have any advice for an aspiring magus specialized in sacrifice?"

"Hmmm..." Hecate stares thoughtfully into space, considering the answer to your question, before saying regretfully, "I doubt that any 'general' advice I could give her would be of particular use. To help Ayaka-san, the best thing I could do would be to discuss her studies in detail with her. Of course, given the secrecy you mentioned I would have to ask you to leave us alone, Alberich-san."

"I see." You tap your chin thoughtfully with a forefinger, thinking for a moment. "In that case, why don't you give us a little demonstration of the powers you retain in your current state? After that, Miss Ayaka can decide whether she'd like me to stay by her side or leave you two to be alone for a time."

"Oh, of course!" Hecate brightens immediately at the suggestion, positively beaming with excitement at the idea. "Now that I've left the realm governed by Hera, her authority should no longer bind my ability to use magic! Let me show the two of you what I can do now that I'm no longer wholly stripped of my powers!" Without giving you a chance, the excited woman steps over to Ayaka's bedroom door and lays a palm against it before murmuring an incantation. Just as with the divine language employed by Circe, sound seems to warp around the word slightly, as if its magical force exerts a physical pull on the vibrations in the air. In this case, however, Hecate speaks her word of command under her breath rather than shouting as Circe often does, and the volume combines with that distorting effect to render the word wholly unintelligible to your ears.
>>
Regardless, your attention is soon diverted from Hecate's word of power, for its effects are far more eye-catching. For slightly longer than a second, a diffuse radiance of greenish light shines from below her hand; then it fades, and its strangeness is transmitted to the wood of the door. All at once the stolid old thing comes alive, swinging open seemingly under its own power before beginning to sprout. On both sides of the wood, the varnish is first cracked by reshaping and then pierced by rapidly growing green shoots that spring out and unfurl leaves as if in a time-lapse video of the growth of a tree. The speed here is quite real, however, and in a few moments the door is hardly recognizable as having ever been anything but a flat, rectangular oak tree. All this new life doesn't seem to be according to Hecate's intent, however. Her satisfied smile lasts only as long as the door takes to first spring into life and open, before rapidly becoming a look of shock and distress as the new branches are revealed. The crowning demonstration of her lack of control over the lively door, though, comes when a thick branch snaps elastically out and smacks the rabbit-eared Goddess on the shins, sweeping her legs out from under her and sending her slamming face-down into the floor. Only then, with her hand forcibly separated from the door, does the new growth stop.

As the teary-eyed woman gets to her feet beside you, doing her best to hide the sniffles that presage a restrained fit of crying, you give a pointed look to Ayaka, raising one eyebrow. In spite of this display of ineptitude, though, she shakes her head and informs you by the telepathic bond between Servant and Master that, 'I'd like to discuss my studies with her, Saber-san. Can you leave us alone for a while?' It's an odd choice, but one you can hardly refuse given your own suggestion.

Thus, against some misgivings, you bow assent to your Master and make your exit, saying a quick and courteous goodbye to Hecate as you go. The central shape of the door, fortunately, is just enough the same as its original shape and size that with some judicious application of a Servant's potent strength you can force the unwilling thing into place and shut it behind you.
>>
With your Master and newly summoned compatriot behind you, you contemplate what to set yourself about next for a few moments before settling on the continuation of last night's business. You'll find Adelheid, and see how far her progress in deciphering Vaisset's notes has progressed. This does, however, leave you with a secondary dilemma: that of her location. After last night's battle the matter slipped your mind, but in the cool light of morning it occurs to you that when Circe and Adelheid were brought to the Shijou manor, every bedroom had already been filled with a guest. Circe slept in Liliesviel's room adjacent to your own, of course, but that still leaves Adelheid in some unknown location. Worse, her personality suggests to your mind no place save a bedroom of her own that she might be willing to sleep. You have no leads, then. Consequently, you determine to simply follow the path to the nearest Servant's presence not in a bedroom, which happens to be in the library, and hope it's her.

Sure enough, when you enter the Shijou family's small private library you discover Adelheid reclining in one of the easy chairs, one of Vaisset's notebooks resting open in her small hands and the other two stacked on her lap. At the sound of the door she looks up, startled, and reddens alarmingly as she lays eyes on you. For a moment, though, she says nothing.

"Good morning, Adelheid," you say. "I'm glad to find you awake. My apologies for the lack of sleeping quarters."

Adelheid, however, ignores your polite greeting entirely. Instead, her first words to you this morning are, in tones of shock, "Alberich! You've changed! What happened?"

>[ ] Ask for clarification, you don't know what she means.

>[ ] Explain in general terms what came of your discussion with Liliesviel last night, and joke that love has changed your looks.

>[ ] Suggest some other reason for this mysterious change she sees. (What?)

>[ ] Say something else. (Write in)
>>
Here you are, folks. My apologies for the delay, but please enjoy this slightly anemic update anyway.

In other news, I'd like to try and run a session in the style of early Akeldama, with votes called every 30 minutes to an hour, at some point in the next 48 hours. So that I can see if there's a time to do it when you'll all be able to vote, please post what time and day (PST) would be most agreeable to you.

>>4074884
Damn it, anon.
>>
>>4074962
>[ ] Ask for clarification, you don't know what she means.
>[ ] Explain in general terms what came of your discussion with Liliesviel last night.
"You lost me."
>>
>>4074962
>>[ ] Ask for clarification, you don't know what she means.
Huh?
Wait can she recognise our Predatory Charisma?
>>
>>4074963
Hmm
Anything past like 8pm PST is pushing it for me unless I've decided not to go to sleep at all for whatever reason.
Which
uh
Kind of happens more often than not.
>>
>>4074962
>[ ] Ask for clarification, you don't know what she means
>>
>>4074974
this
>>
>>4075036
>reddens alarmingly as she lays eyes on you
>her first words to you this morning are, in tones of shock, "Alberich! You've changed! What happened?"
Oh man, it really is Predatory Charisma isn't it?
Does it really have that much of an effect on somebody that is in both categories?
Jesus.
>>
>>4074962
>[ ] Ask for clarification, you don't know what she means.
"You lost me."
No, seriously.
>>
>>4075222
It's either she's recognised our Predatory Charisma and is incredibly attracted to Alberich right now, considering It should have the most effect on her of all people, considering she fulfils both requirements and would also naturally be attracted to dangerous people. Actually, I think Tsubaki might fulfil all the requirements too... Fun.
Didn't seem to have much of an effect on Circe though. Probably because she was monumentally pissed off.
Not much visible effect on Ayaka either.

Or Adelheid has the unlisted skill to detect non-virgins on sight.
>>
>>4074962
>[ ] Ask for clarification, you don't know what she means.
God I've missed you, Adelheid.
>>
>>4075386
Lily was super into us when we woke up too.
Ayaka has been crushing on us since day 1 so a spike in attractiveness probably doesn't do much at this point.
Circe's probably just angry like you said.
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>>4075655
I wonder how it's going to affect Tsubaki...
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>>4075858
>it doesn't.
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>>4075862
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4F4qzPbcFiA
>>
>>4075862
>>4075868
And into the magical succ water it goes.
>>
>>4075862
>Sex: 検閲
Can't say it wasn't foreshadowed.
>>
>>4075145
Well then, out of courtesy to the only person who replied I'll try to get today's update done before eight.
Otherwise, given the lack of response, I guess we'll keep going with 1-2 updates per day as I can get them done.
>>
>>4075887
>foreshadowed
More like dreaded

>>4076027
I have no idea why nobody replied to that.
I miss ID-Lock.
Hell, I miss TIGER too.
Damn namefags.
>>
>>4076027
I'll be here consistently through the night.
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>>4076069
>I miss ID-Lock.
>Hell, I miss TIGER too.
>Damn namefags.
It does make me a bit sad, seeing the way people have energetically gotten into my writing only to leave without a word.
Oh, well. Nothing for it but to keep trying to get better.

>>4076089
Much obliged, anon.
>>
>>4076126
Here's the deal, if you want to do these sessions with quicker updates and votes then announce a specific date ahead of time. People are used to just checking in once a day at most and leaving it up to the players understandably isn't gonna get a response. Maybe set a specific day of the week that you do shorter and quicker updates on and people will get used to it.
>>
>>4076253
I suppose you're right. Not getting a response when I leave it up to players isn't really understandable to me, but if you think it'd go better if I decide, I'm happy to oblige.

Well then, everyone, on Sunday February 15, from 6:00pm to midnight PST, I intend on trying to get an update done every hour. If you want to be around for a more rapid session, please try to be there.
If it goes well, hopefully we can make it a weekly affair.
>>
>>4076293
Also since I'm giving advice, I think I've noticed something. Feel free to let me know if I'm off-base.

It seems like your number one priority is to please your players and avoid inconveniencing them in any way for fear of backlash. Now this isn't necessarily wrong, but I think you give this way too much consideration when writing the quest. This combined with a few extremely critical and quick to anger players is a very bad thing and strays close to pure wish fulfillment for the players.

Cook up a difficult situation for players to puzzle their way out of. Write what you want to write, then see how we work through it with the tools at Alberich's. Don't make things happen just because players want it to. There has to be a balance between the player's and the QM's input on the quest. In short, don't keep the player's wishes in mind when it comes to external factors outside of Alberich's control. Write what makes sense and then keep the player's wishes in mind with how Alberich deals with it either proactively or reactively.

In short, take of the kiddie gloves. Ignore that one guy who's always mad. Give us serious decisions to really struggle with and think through. Write the quest that you want to write, not the one you think won't make the players mad.
>>
>>4076318
>It seems like your number one priority is to please your players and avoid inconveniencing them in any way for fear of backlash.
Of course I do want to make people happy, but I don't think this has caused me to strip the danger from the quest; at least not intentionally. Do you mind giving a couple of example of situations where you feel I did this? The most that I feel I've altered things to appease people is in the characterization of Alberich, which is somewhat natural given he's the player character.

>Cook up a difficult situation for players to puzzle their way out of.
>Give us serious decisions to really struggle with and think through.
I realize I've said this before, but I really am trying my best to accomplish this. Unfortunately, right now I'm dealing with the age-old problem of power creep. Alberich's grown so much stronger in such a short time that when it comes to credible threats, it's far more difficult to create them now than it was in Akeldama.
This isn't to say that there aren't things to threaten you out there, those you know about as well as those that haven't made an appearance yet directly. Harris has his plans; Emiya is a danger, and so is the unknown Master of Assassin. Of course there is the overarching puzzle of Awakening Mirror, how to defeat Odin, which you could be approaching a little differently from your present methods.
Not all upgrades are as blatantly wish-fulfilling as one might hope, as Hecate's inept nature makes pretty clear.
For all that, it seems that the circumstances don't impress you folks with much of a feeling of tension. Obviously this is something I need to work on.

>kiddie gloves
Now I must nitpick. The phrase is kid gloves, anon; referring to gloves made of leather from immature goats (kids) which is extremely soft. Such gloves were often used to handle fragile things, and in the 18th century were a standard part of men's formal wear outdoors.
>>
>>4076357
>Do you mind giving a couple of example of situations where you feel I did this?
Acquiring Saber Alter Meido felt like an asspull to me. And overall the fights have seemed much easier since the backlash against how combat had gone for a bit. I think you mentioned that this long section of free time is what you thought the players wanted, and free time seems like it should be pretty rare given all we need to do and all the threats we're facing, and it seems like they're just sitting in stasis for us to have this time. I don't know, I just prefer working harder toward a goal instead of feeling like the QM just threw us a bone because of player demand.
>Of course there is the overarching puzzle of Awakening Mirror, how to defeat Odin, which you could be approaching a little differently from your present methods.
Agree 100%. Everyone's forgotten the severity of that situation.
>kiddie gloves
I realized that didn't sound right after posting it. Fuck.
>>
>>4076382
>Acquiring Saber Alter Meido felt like an asspull to me.
See, now that was an option I'd planned from the beginning on being available if you fulfilled the right conditions.
>overall the fights have seemed much easier since the backlash against how combat had gone for a bit
...writing interactive and challenging puzzle-type combat is hard. As a player I despise dice-governed combat, so that shortcut is out too. I will continue to work toward improving my skills as a QM to provide a satisfying challenge.
> I think you mentioned that this long section of free time is what you thought the players wanted, and free time seems like it should be pretty rare given all we need to do and all the threats we're facing, and it seems like they're just sitting in stasis for us to have this time.
For what it's worth, it hasn't been that long in the story since you fought Circe and captured Yumigawa, even if all this time has sped by IRL. If you consider matters, you should be able to project what Emiya and Harris have been up to as well, and of course you know Assassin isn't one to just come and attack your home.
>>
>>4076398
For what it's worth, I liked your idea to give every enemy a gimmick that somehow counters one of Alberich's, which would force us to find a way around it. I like it less that you forced the maximum possible screentime out of them before they could die.

For example, you bailed out Roland with a Command Spell before Alberich could kill him, which I now feel was a little weak. You could instead have had him mount Brigliadoro right after the Durandal reveal:
>"I was merely savoring the moment. You see, during our clash just now I gauged your strength and speed; and I must tell you: you are slow and you are weak. Your abilities are altogether lackluster! In fact, you may just be the weakest swordsman I've ever fought! But don't let that discourage you, Rider. Take up arms all the same, and struggle for your life!"
>"Slow and weak, am I? I may be weaker than you, Saber, but I think my old friend Brigliadoro..."
>Roland leaps into the air as a shimmer of silver light forms underneath him, and as he lands it resolves into black destrier, wearing a bridle of solid gold.
>"...will be more than m match for your speed."
And then he zooms behind us with his A++ Agility. When Alberich kills Brigliadoro with Kenótis, Roland gets furious and runs in to attack, but his lack of caution gives Alberich a great opening to chop his arm off. Roland gets desperate and pops Orlando Furioso, and it then proceeds as per 'canon'.
>>
"Pardon me?" you reply, looking curiously at Adelheid as you saunter over and drop yourself into the recliner opposite her. "I've changed? What do you mean by that? I don't think my clothing is out of the ordinary, and unless I'm quite unaware there's nothing else about me that changes from day to day."

"Well- It's- You see-" Adelheid breaks off in confusion, her words disordered by her evident surprise. Then she heaves a sigh, composing herself with a moment's effort and refocusing on you. "What's changed about you isn't anything I could point to, but rather your whole mien. Your... energy has changed; not your mystic energy, but in your person..." Again she breaks off, seeming to give up, and says, "but no matter. If you haven't made an effort to change, forget I spoke of it. I'm sure I'm only suffering from a lack of sleep, and too much time focused on still text." Abruptly she snaps the notebook shut, sets it down on the others, and with a prodigious yawn laces her hands together above her head to stretch, arching her back in a catlike gesture. "Now," she continues lazily, "since you've brought to my attention that I passed the entire night working over this infernal notebook, I believe I'll remedy that lack."

"Come on, Adelheid," you say with a chuckle, slipping a bit into your old manner of speech now that you're alone with your former Servant. "A Servant like you doesn't need to sleep; it may have been one thing when you were limited by my command spell, but now..."

"Now what?" the girl shoots back, narrowing her eyes in an adversarial smile. "Sleep may not be a bodily necessity for a spirit, but a proper rest still refreshes the mind wonderfully. You won't say you haven't slept a moment since becoming a Servant, I hope."

"No, you have me there," you admit, "but I have a living body, it's hardly the same; and even so, I need far less sleep now than I did as an imitation human in the Akeldama." Still, not intending to argue the point further, you shrug your shoulders and concede, "All the same, if you're so set on sleeping this morning I won't stop you; but wait a moment, would you? I didn't come looking for you here just to say good morning, after all. Humor me."

"Very well then, Alberich," Adelheid replies through another yawn. Under her cap, you can already see her eyelids drooping. The girl really is quite tired, it seems; you suppose habit can have a surprising effect on the body. "What did you want to speak with me about?"

"The same thing that's already kept you up all night," you answer with a smile. "I'd like to know how much of Vaisset's notes you've been able to decipher and translate for me, and whether you've had an easy or difficult time of it. How long do you suppose the entire job will take?"
>>
"That's no surprise, I suppose," the girl says irritably. "You want to know how much I've deciphered so far? Here! This should've been the key to unlocking the whole wretched journal, and instead it's the sum total of my accomplishment!" From the inside cover of the notebook she'd had open when you entered, Adelheid pulls with furious vigor a folded sheet of paper which she hands to you as if ridding herself of a hated object, regarding it with visible contempt. "I chose an entry half at random to use as a key," she explains, "only making certain it contained the full variety of alphabets that damned magus used. Now, after I've deciphered that, I find out he changed his cipher every day! An easy or difficult time of it?" she huffs. "I've told you, these books are infernal!"

"I see," you say, keeping the disappointment from your tone to better soothe Adelheid's anger. "Well, no matter; I don't mind how long it takes you. As long as you're working at such a troublesome task for my sake, all I can express is gratitude." At the flattering words, delivered with a charming expression, Adelheid goes once more slightly pink and is evidently mollified; at least somewhat. Satisfying yourself of the fact, you turn your eyes down to Adelheid's paper, unfolding it to scan the contents. The upper portion is filled with letters from the various alphabets Vaisset employed, arranged in a strange pattern that would presumably inform to one who understands such things the nature of the cipher. Below this is what you're looking for: a translation of one of Vaisset's experiments.
>>
"4 January, 2016 A.D.
My first entry in this notebook in a new year; but not with a new course of inquiry. I am resolved to pursue the present approach as far as possible, though it has failed me in one magic circuit already. My hypothesis is that the reason for the destruction of my circuit in the prior experiment was a mismatch of location, resulting in the replicated Od following an incompatible course; I'd accounted for origin, but not for that. This is why, following the procedure outlined in my log of last week, I have ascertained the location in the previous owner's body of the five-element-aligned circuit which serves as my sample. In the first stage of the experiment, I will align it with the corresponding circuit within my own body and perform synchronization of origin and will through Technique E, previously successful.

Record of procedural results:
As previously, Technique E is effective in the synchronization of external and internal magic circuits without the failure of connection or destruction of the external sample experienced when using Techniques A-D. This marks the twelfth confirmation of Technique E's efficaciousness. With synchronization complete, I will now attempt to synchronize elemental affinity through Elemental Technique Q-3.
As previously, synchronization was a success, and did not experience the incompatible circuit states of prior techniques. As this was the case in the most failure, however, this remains nothing more than the confirmation of prior knowledge. I now move into the final stage of the procedure. If my hypothesis about location and Odic course is correct, I will now be able to channel fire-aligned Od through my own synchronized circuit.
[After this point Vaisset's hand becomes shaky.]
Another failure. After the twenty-hour process of today's work, my only result is further pain and another lost circuit. Father, do you avenge yourself on me for my departure from your course thus? I must rethink my theory from the beginning."
>>
It's a strange thing to read. Three years ago, Vaisset seems to have been persevering by sheer obsession in a doomed pursuit; yet by the time of your own summoning he was quite optimistic about his studies. Clearly he must have made some breakthrough; does that make the notes he composed prior to his discovery worthless. You ponder on the subject for a while, and on the dismal state of the man's mind, that he stuck so adamantly to his futile course. Was he so broken by his father's death that he felt the need to reject all his works, even if doing so meant this research into something that seemed so utterly impossible? At the thought of that despair verging on madness, the mental image of the man tormenting himself with endless hours of labor down in that stone chamber to which you were summoned, you can't help but reflect on the contrast with his sister's restrained grief; and indeed with yourself. Weren't the residents of Yumigawa's home your parents, in a way? Certainly you have his memories of a childhood with them, and when you believed yourself to be him you felt some degree of filial regard for the pair; yet the thought of their deaths hardly crossed your mind, and certainly made no great impact, when you consigned their home to oblivion. What is it that governs this variance among responses to the death of one so close, you wonder. Did the feelings of the human Yumigawa conform to your own, or is he yet another differing portrait of grief?

Now your mind is wandering far from productive matters. With an effort of will you recall it, and return to the subject of Vaisset's research. In the end, though, there's little to conclude there without a clearer picture of the work as a whole. You turn your eyes back to Adelheid, waiting for you to make your exit and leave her to sleep.

>[ ] Ask or tell her about something else. (What?)

>[ ] Pocket the page of notes and let her get the rest she desires. You have another to visit this morning. (Who would you like to see next, and for what purpose?)

>[ ] At this return to immediate considerations you become conscious of your hunger. Go downstairs and inquire of the maids about breakfast, then send someone to collect the residents for a group meal.

>[ ] Do something else. (Write in)
>>
>>4076743
>[ ] Pocket the page of notes and let her get the rest she desires. You have another to visit this morning. (Who would you like to see next, and for what purpose?)
Kourakuhime, to find out about her NPs and discuss torture techniques for Yumigawa.
>>
>>4076763
I'll support this.
>>
>>4076737
So his approach seems to have been taking a circuit from a natural Average One and synchronizing it with his own circuit, which would then behave as if it was the Average One's own circuit. He had a breakthrough later and managed to produce Od with any element in it, but he couldn't make the effect last judging by his last trial.
>>
>>4076782
It looks like his first bottleneck came after the circuits were synchronized. My guess is that he located the circuit and figured out the Odic flow, only to then get stuck at the lack of permanence.
>>
Just a note before I sign off for tonight. In case it wasn't clear, the [After this point Vaisset's hand becomes shaky.] is a note that Adelheid wrote in, not narration.
>>
>>4076828
>Note to future self: our hand got shaky after this bit, so be careful.
>>
>>4076834
Now I've been doubly unclear. Gah!
Sometimes QM narration is written in with brackets if the writer can't think of another way to insert description into a block of text. After posting this and reading it back, I thought you folks might have read it that way, so I wanted to make it clear that the bracketed text was on the page and not a description of what Alberich was seeing.
>>
>>4076828
Damn, so you mean that we didn't get Clairvoyance EX and weren't reading the past?
>>
>>4076845
Hand as in handwriting. "It was written in a clear, elegant hand." for example.
>>
>>4076846
I... I know.
I was joking.
I understood what you meant.
>>
>>4076743
>[ ] Pocket the page of notes and let her get the rest she desires. You have another to visit this morning. (Who would you like to see next, and for what purpose?)
Circe, for training countermeasures against Odin
>>
>>4076743
>[ ] Pocket the page of notes and let her get the rest she desires. You have another to visit this morning. (Who would you like to see next, and for what purpose?)
THE BLANK NPS KORAKUHIME, WHAT DO THEY MEAN!?!?!?!!?
>>
>>4076985
This
>>
>>4076743
This, >>4076763, and ask her if she's willing to come out of her shell a little more because Adelheid wanted to make her acquaintance when we mentioned her in general terms.

Oh and we have a new friend from the Reverse Side who's tutoring Ayaka right now.
>>
>>4076743
>>[ ] Pocket the page of notes and let her get the rest she desires. You have another to visit this morning. (Who would you like to see next, and for what purpose?)

Kourakuhime, NP discussion, personally until something changes I could care less about Yumigawa aside from finding out what happens if we try to sacrifice the person Alberich was based on. Not expecting a full upgrade, maybe get his post-Akeldama memories, if nothing else it might give us an in character reason to have the idea to go 'train-ing'.
>>
>>4077184
>Q: what happens if we try to sacrifice the person Alberich was based on?
A: fuck all.
>>
>>4077194
Pretty much what I expect to happen, but right now all he has going for him is he's a normal with a copy of our memories; after we leveled his house and took back our servants he doesn't really have anything we might want. As is he only continues to exist as a trophy or potential experiment fodder, a role any random off the streets can easily fill.
>>
>>4077184
>>4077194
>>4077215
Remember that Lily still wants to torture him.
>>
When are we going to get serious about preparing for Odin? It's gonna be a one on one battle and we have literally no plan. Social links aren't going to help much.
>>
>>4077231

Lily can do what she likes, all i'm trying to say is unless something changes I don't see his life having any real value to us except as a potential guinea pig and going forward there are better uses for an update than concerning ourselves with him.
>>
>>4077267
Character development? Talking with Yumigawa could be a real point of introspection for Alberich.
>>
>>4077280

Pardon I'm not able to be as clear as I'd like to, I find the idea of torture for the sake of it to be pointless and to me would be an update that could've been better spent training, bonding with our party, sparring/barring with Odin etc.

I could be sold on introspection interrogation but I'd need a goal in mind first; for example to see how far the resonance goes (did it actually overwrite his personality or just showed him a dream of a life beyond what's normal and he became obsessed with when it was proven 'real' after our servants mistook him for us?) Regardless, since he's currently rotting in a cell I don't see him contributing much to the story beyond our next interaction unless we have the mercy to break the illusion of "reclaiming his power" and give him a new purpose.
>>
>>4077407
I'm not trying to sell you on anything, to be clear. For that reason I won't say any more about what I had in mind for how a 'visiting Yumigawa' scene would go, other than that you're certainly not obligated to torture him.
>>
>>4077427
>I'm not trying to sell you on anything
Nor do I expect you to and personally I'd rather see a scene when its posted than be told about what's in it.
I meant that unless someone gives a decent write-in for what we're looking to accomplish I'd prefer to spend an update on anything else than concern ourselves with a powerless, defeated opponent.
Anyway I bogged things down enough with my poorly worded chain of thought.
>>
>>4077248
Getting serious about Odin is something I can get behind, but I don't think Circe's the way to do it. Remember she got BTFO'd by him already. Plus from what Sweets was saying about it being a puzzle I think we as players need to come up with a plan ourselves instead of trying to get birdmom to spoonfeed us the answer. If we are going to try and do research for beating him though I think talking to Lily about his weak points as a Servant or having K-hime do some research on him like old times would be the best ways to try.
>>
>>4077632
She can still provide direction on how to develop our magic skills to counter Odin's. It's unlikely to happen just on our own. I think your ideas are good too though
>>
Oh.
Page 11.
Uh oh.
>>
>>4077856
Yeah, we're slipping off the board. Next update will be in a new thread. Depending on timing I may not be able to post the link here, though. If we fall off before the next thread goes up, I'll post in the general.



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