In her honest opinion Maria should have expected to meet the Prince like this. Why, her brother was somehow one of his few friends in this world. Though whether or not this is exactly a safe option for her or not is the question that Maria had no idea about. At last, meeting the Prince was a step up she guessed.

She had luckily had the time to clean herself up, making sure not to smell of sweat and work. Such a thing was undignified, she would quickly admit. However, as her muscles were still sore she opted for a more plain dress instead of the standard fanfare.

Without much prompt and circumstance Bon quickly opened the door to a commons area. The room he revealed looked to be a standard meeting room but instead of a simple chair in the back stood a desk. Sitting in the desk was Lucien himself, seemingly looking over a series of paperwork.

Sitting at one of the tables was Ford, his eyes widening slightly as he saw Maria walking in. The other, sitting with another pile of paperwork was Waltz. When their eyes met, he seemed to grow a widening smile while shaking his head.

“Lucien, I bring to you my dear Sister Maria! Maria, this here is the First Prince.”

The man looked up towards Maria with an indifferent expression, “You are Maria Regnia, it is a pleasure to meet you.” He spoke words that should have been flattering, but Maria felt all the color drying up from them.

[Conversation Failed] [Innocence Check Failed]

“It is mine as well, Prince Lucien.”

“...”

“...”

Maria’s worry quickly became more confused, as it was common courtesy to let those of higher rank talk first. The way he looked so, dully though. The man was described in the game as not having much motivation besides doing his job and eating, but by God he was so much worse. It was like looking at a corpse!

“Uh, so what are you working on right now? To think that the first Prince, even during his education was given so much work surely is a bit much.”

“I guess so.” He answered curtly.

“...”

“...”

>Continue attempts to try and talk to the Prince
>Talk to the man who Maria schemed against *Waltz*
>Talk to Ford, as somehow Maria gotta not die soon because of him
>Just make some tea and place it on the table

>>4261907
>Continue attempts to try and talk to the Prince
We're a real sparkling conversationalist, huh. Can we try to use our memories of the game to say something that would move him?

>>4261907
>Continue attempts to try and talk to the Prince

>>4261907
>Continue attempts to try and talk to the Prince
We didn't slay 2 emperors just to be defeated by an icy Prince.

At least thank him for promising Bon his aid regarding freeing us from the Miaphs. Whether he was just going through the motions or not, it was nice for him to think of the daughter of a Duke. He could have just brushing us off as a casualty of war.

>>4261907
>Continue attempts to try and talk to the Prince

>>4261907
>Continue attempts to try and talk to the Prince. Might there be a reason I was summoned here today your highness?

>This is a great chance to spy on the inner workings of the Kingdom and learn. It can't be more boring than our current lessons, would I be of any assistance with some of it?

>>4262162
Forgot to support >>4262059
as well.

Maria could not help but give a slight pout at the man easily ignoring her existence. To think that the Prince would be this rude, at the very least he gave Chloe the time of day from within the game. This, well he was just straight up ignoring her.

Maybe she should take a different route, so slowly she drifted to the nearby window, “You know, those birds are all quite cute out there. Singing themselves like no care in the world.”

[Innocence Check Failed]

He did not even look at Maria, even though those words were the same Chloe used to get a rouse out of him. Maybe it was not because of the conversation’s matter, but who she was that was affecting the outcome. She was not Chloe, so there must be something else.

So Maria gave a soft breath, maybe it would take a few more days to get under the Prince’s skin. No, it would not be getting under the Prince’s skin but instead trying to jumpstart his brain of emotion.

Hell, it might take years before she could actually do that.

There was another thing however that she must do.

So Maria gave a curt bow, slowly lifting her dress but lowering her head, “Prince Lucien, I thank you for taking such good care of my Brother. Why you even considering saving me from the Miaphate, to which I must thank you greatly for even considering saving such a simple person such as myself.”

[Royal Demeanor Check…]

“Hmm?” the man looked towards Maria for what she realised was the first time, “You are welcome, however you must thank your brother more for educating me on the situation.”

[passed]

“Then thank you Bon for worrying about me so much.” Maria quickly shined a joking smile to her brother, which got her to receive a quick blush from the boy.

“I-I told you I would keep you safe.”

“Fufu, oh don’t get too fluster Bon.” Maria laughed while pinching the boy’s cheek. Yeah she might be younger than him, but in her heart she was much older than him in mentality and experience.

>Start making some tea just for the hell of it
>Leave to go meet up with Maria’s underling’s
>Leave to go take a proper, relaxing bath
>Go for a climb, a climb about the entire academy.
>Other ideas?

>>4262602
>Leave to go meet up with Maria’s underling’s

>>4262602
>Start making some tea just for the hell of it

Hallelujah we finally managed to pass a skill check! (I'm still laughing that 'innocence' is a skill?? Like that boat sailed LONG ago for Maria)

We should stick around more - an audience with the crown Prince and his inner circle is a rare opportunity, we can't let a chance like this go to waste. At the very least we gotta chat to Waltz to see how he's taking the whole countess thing. (I also really, really wanna duel Ford even if he'll probably beat the stuffing out of us. Maybe start with some verbal sparring before the actual sparring?)

>>4262602
>Start making some tea just for the hell of it

>>4262602
>Start making some tea just for the hell of it

>>4262602
>>Start making some tea just for the hell of it
the previous thread has yet to be archived

>>4262757
If someone wants to that would be nice. Again, I'm not the best at Archiving stuff.

>>4262602
>Start making some tea and ask why he summoned us.
Seriously. Did he bring us over to be cheeky via wasting our time? This had better not be him being tsun.


Probably should warn Annelies to lay low or just drag her with us to church whenever we go to keep her safeish?

>>4262602
>>4262924
I'll support this anon

File: Spoiler Image (7 KB, 300x168)

7 KB JPG

>>4262924
>>4262956

I should clear up a misunderstanding before this gets any more votes. Bon, Maria's brother, simply brought her in here of his own volition.

Actual Spoiler: You should also realize the Prince is a Kundere by now. I mean, hes

A small sense of achievement filled Maria’s heart as she finally got something more out of him than just a single word. Maybe she was being a bit too happy about that, but who would not call it a win when you finally get a corpse to talk!

“Hey Bon, is there a tea set around here?”

“Yeah, under those covers.”

And like that she was able to get a teapot together and started to warm up some water. It was being warmed up by a simple alcohol bunsen burner, which Maria realised was a slight bit odd. There did not appear to be firearms of any sort, but here she was using something of at atleast early modern making. Then again, basic hygiene seemed to be in fashion as well.

As the pot was warming up Maria heard a strong voice to her right, “So you’re Maria, I kind of expected something a little more brutal.”

Maria turned to the man with a smile, “Is that so Waltz, is it because all your plans fell through?”

“Hmph, I guess you can say that.” He made a waving motion, “That however just fell into my lap. Those two were idiots anyways, so it was going to be either myself or their Countess who would imprison them.”

“Hmm, honestly I would think Excommunication would be a much more brutal end myself.”

“Oh, do you worry for your immortal soul or something like that?”

“I have experienced too much in this life to be shown overwise. The Miaphs are truly Demi-Gods walking upon our world.”

“And yet you killed two of them.”

“Their Gods hate my guts now.” Maria settled her hand upon the finger that rests upon her neck, “You can say if I lose my faith now, I will truly be in danger.”

“Hmm, alright. Can you mix in some cinnamon into that, it’s my favorite.” He ended with a curt smile.

“Is that so?”

>Tease him by throwing black tea into it
>Do the Cinnamon
>Ask what either Ford or the Prince would like

>>4262979
>Ask what either Ford or the Prince would like

>>4262979
>Ask what either Ford or the Prince would like

>>4262979
>>Tease him by throwing black tea into it

>>4262979
>Do the Cinnamon
>Ask what either Ford or the Prince would like

>>4262979
>Do the cinnamon.
>Make something good for Ford
>Ask the Prince if he would like any tea.

>>4262979
>Ask what either Ford or the Prince would like
Specifically, ask both if they have any preferences.

“Hmm, how about you Lucien, Ford. What would you two want in your teas?”

“Surberry.” Lucien said while he moved another pile of papers off to the side.

With that Maria turned towards Ford, who simply gave a small sigh, “I will take the Black Tea, Kingslayer.”

With everyone’s orders set Maria went to work. It would be a little troublesome considering that Teabags do not really exist as she knew it back in the modern day, but with a little handiwork she was able to make a mimicked version out of a very fine cloth.

Her little invention grew only a little bit of attention from Waltz, who was studying Maria closely so that she would not mess with his drink. Of why would Maria poison his drink, she does not yet know. Or maybe he was afraid she would give him the Prince’s Black tea instead.

Oh that would be funny, but she was a guest here. Maybe if she ever invaded the room she would surely try some trickery against the man.

So she finished making the teas and handing them out to all in her room, including her brother who took a seat on a couch. Since it was probably not proper to sit with any of the boy, Maria just brought herself up a chair.

“So Ford, you know my sister here has been training with me out in the arena.”

“She has?” Maria could quickly see the man’s interest peaked, though if she was not so composed Maria would surely have spat tea onto the table.

“Yup, I remember her saying something about wanting to spar with you. What about it, wanna teach her some of that Holy Empire Sword Technique.”

“...” He turned over to see Maria trying her best, and succeeding, in keeping her tea from going all over the place, “I would not mind matching swords with the Kinglayer, if to learn a little more about her.”

Well, this is not the set of circumstances she was expecting.

>Agree to the spar
>Bicker at Bon for leaking that tidbit out.
>Disagree to the Spar, as it is not right anyways
>Other

>>4263134
>Bicker at Bon for leaking that tidbit out. Agree to the spar

>>4263134
I see everyone around us is doing their damndest to make sure our capabilities are public. We pulled off both of our kills because nobody saw it coming. We are really gonna have to work on our ninja skills and hope nobody blabs about that in the future if we want to have any hidden trump cards left if we need them.

>Agree to the spar
>Don't bicker at Bon since the arena for training is probably extremely public and anyone who hears basic gossip would have heard about it eventually.

>>4263176
+1

>>4263176
I agree

Backing

>>4263176
backing.

To be fair they do have good reason to fear for their lives if their royal that is considering our reputation. So far we assassinated one king on the battlefield and poisoned the other to death with a fucking coin. They can't plan for all our trump cards considering the poison one was based on future medical knowledge. Much less anything else we may come up with. We could revolutionize business and medicine alone without too much trouble. It's so far we keep the medical knowledge to ourselves so we can use it to kill more people when necessary.

>>4263134
>>Agree to the spar

>>4263176
Support

the previous thread has yet to be archived

Maria could feel it deep down inside of her soul that she really wanted to bicker at her brother for being a dumbass, but she decided to hold in ushc a bitchy tendency. It was only going to be a matter of time before they heard about it anyways, so she might as well roll with the flow instead.

“Then it is made, I will spar with you here in a week if that is fine by you, Ford.” Maria half answered half asked the man with a surt smile.

“I can agree to that date. We will meet with each other then.”

Was this the right decision, Maria has no idea. What she does know is that she is going to die quite the horrible death here in a week. That much is for sure.

With that agreement made Maria hanged out in the room just a little bit longer, everyone seemingly getting into their working grooves. Since she did not have much else to do there, now that her tea was finished, Maria quickly cleaned up everything that she got. So she exited the room, the evening sky already illuminating the courtyards below.

Meeting that set of capture targets in the end was nice, Maria would admit. They did not have the same doting atmosphere the game seemed to give them, maybe because Maria was not Chloe. What matters now she could guess is that she does need to find a husband.

Now what to do over her coming week…

>Find a chance to talk to the Second Prince just for the hell of it
>Just climb around, because fuck it
>Get together with the Possee, its time to gossip
>Well theres a spar in the week, so might as well train to make sure Maria does not make a fool of herself.

Sorry for late and short, but I had 3 interviews just this morning.

>>4264072
>Well theres a spar in the week, so might as well train to make sure Maria does not make a fool of herself.
Heck yes time for training montage music.

Is there a chance between trsining sessions to meet the second Prince and his posses? Who knows, maybe one of them will seek us out, since we're going to be in the same area for most of the week.

good luck with the interviews QM

>>4264072
>Well theres a spar in the week, so might as well train to make sure Maria does not make a fool of herself.

>>4264072
>Find a chance to talk to the Second Prince just for the hell of it
Not just for the hell of it; we need to make contact with as many of the capture targets as possible and explore our options.
It would be great if we could find some way of improving our Conversation skill, though. There must be some way we can grab some of the game's sweet romance for ourself.
If the majority goes for combat training, though, I'd like to reiterate that we shouldn't be training with an axe, since that'll only make us look even more ridiculous, barbaric, and alien to the noble students, and will definitely hurt us in the romance department.

>>4264171
Any guy who dumps us for wielding an axe is not the type of guy we should be shacking up with.

Honestly with our high royal demeanor we can pull of the ''''exotic''' look instead of barbaric. Plus an axe makes us stand out and be memorable - noble girls who can swing around a sword are gonna be much more common.

>>4264188
It's an axe, man. There is no "exotic" look; it's one step up from a club. It's inelegant no matter how you look at it, and totally at odds with our character's image.
There are plenty of memorable weapons we could use without sacrificing our image. A glaive would be an excellent choice, as would a variety of other polearms, or even just an unusual sword. An axe, though, is just an awful choice.

>>4264188
>>4264193
Besides, there's the problem that it's not suited to our frame. Axes are more strength-based and less finesse-based than swords or other weapons with more reach and the capacity to thrust. Look at our portrait at the top of the thread. Does that look like someone who's going to be at an advantage with a weapon that requires crushing strength to you?

>>4264072
>>Well theres a spar in the week, so might as well train to make sure Maria does not make a fool of herself.

>>4264188
an axe would be useless for us and spears are superior

>>4264072
>>Well theres a spar in the week, so might as well train to make sure Maria does not make a fool of herself
we must assert dominance

So Maria trained, at least she trained on the first day without much of a problem. However it seemed that her little spar with the Ford fellow has already hit the school’s diabolical mind.

Yes, she should have expected this but there will be at the very least about fifty people in attendance. That meant if she did horribly she would likely suffer a drop in reputation, as in technicality she was the challenger.

This however has lead her to the armory.

“So explain to me exactly why you want to change weapons so soon to the fight?”

“The Axe is a weapon for an uncivilized brute and peasants. Yes I was trained by Uncivilized brutes in the way of combat, but I fear even appearing with an Axe could damage my reputation if I win.”

Bon simply gave his sister a shrug, “Alright then, I won’t try to understand that.”

“So what do we even have available anyways?” Maria asked while looking over the armory. There was quite the variety there, and while Maria’s image would benefit from using something like a shortsword, from all the climbing and strength related exercises she’s done throughout her life somehow her strength was equaling that of a man these days.

Hell, she even beat her brother occasionally.

>>PICK YOUR WEAPON!
>Shortsword
>Bastard Sword
>Two Handad Battle Axe
>Lance
>Halberd (Best of a Spear and Battleaxe)
>Mace
>Morning Star
>Warhammer
>Spetum
>Other Melee Weapons you Recommend

>>4264636
>Halberd (Best of a Spear and Battleaxe)
It's close to what we use and it's also akin to a lance

>>4263369
I mostly agree with everything you said, but stopping poisoning doesn't really change even if the poison is unknown unless we go way outside the box with stuff like radium and carbon monoxide.

Probably wasn't that bright to reveal that we really did poison the second, but it was fun to gloat. Lead has a big advantage for poison at least since it's sweet for some weird reason. Usually poison tastes awful, but lead is exactly like what people of that day loved as far as flavor goes.


>>4264487
>>4264072
Supporting the assertion of dominance.
Even if we lose it should make assassins think twice before doing a direct attack.
>>4264274
Could be fire emblem mechanics for all I know.

>>4264636
>>Halberd (Best of a Spear and Battleaxe)
We Wuxia now.

File: Glaives_by_Wendelin_Boeheim.jpg (181 KB, 770x551)

181 KB JPG

>>4264636
>Other Melee Weapons you Recommend
Glaive. See attached image for some examples. Second from the left (unlettered) or second from the right (e) would be ideal. A partisan would also be excellent.

>>4264653
billhook glaive or poleaxe halberd?

>>4264653
>>4264651
Glaive looks closer to what i was hoping for. (The name had escaped me for a moment for some reason)

>>4264659
A billhook and a glaive are different weapons, although a glaive is definitely closer to a billhook than to a halberd. Like I said, though, either the second from the left or the second from the right in the image I posted is an ideal candidate for my choice.

File: Ahlefeldts_partisan_vertical.jpg (1.45 MB, 1072x2806)

1.45 MB JPG

>>4264653
To elaborate on the other suggestion, here's the head of a partisan. Note the useful 'sword hooks' at the base, the large blade useful for slashing or thrusting, and the heavy ornamentation making it a suitable weapon for high nobility.

>>4264681
I support this

We need to be well rested at least 1-2 days before the duel. What should we do during that?
I'm thinking that we invent pepper spray and gossip with our friends before it looks like we ditched them to make goo goo eyes at the prince entourage..

>>4264636
>Mace
Non lethal and effective against armour

>>4264885
that is reliant on us having a good amount of strength which we don't have

If you, >>4264663, switch to the partisan or you, >>4264715, switch to the glaive, we'll have a clear majority vote and the QM can write. Personally I'm fine with voting for whichever more anons are in favor of.
>>4264650
Are you too attached to the halberd to support one of the other polearm ideas, anon?
>>4264885
I've never heard of a non-lethal mace before. They were generally pretty skull-shatteringly deadly.

>>4264906
what polearm are you suggesting ?

>>4264913
My suggestion was >>4264653, elaborated on at >>4264681. Either the glaive or the partisan would be fine with me, and I find them both preferable to the halberd. Mostly for aesthetic reasons, I'll admit. If I had to settle on one particular item to vote for, it would be a partisan with a blade 45cm in length on a pole slightly under 2 meters, with other dimensions to scale according to the image I posted above.

>>4264636
>Halberd (Best of a Spear and Battleaxe)

>>4264636
Glaive,
>>4264651
More like we Mordhau now

File: 12.141.5_001june2014.jpg (2.1 MB, 2250x4000)

2.1 MB JPG

Here's a proper image of the type of glaive I was thinking of, instead of just a diagram.

>>4264906
>I've never heard of a non-lethal mace before. They were generally pretty skull-shatteringly deadly.
The only thing coming to mind is that anon is expecting us to be wearing fencing gear, the mace to be light to avoid it from doing real damage, and a points system being used instead of a dangerous battle that could easily result in death if we slipup.

Actually makes more sense than us using real weapons that can cripple the opponent during a sparring/training session once I actually thought about it.

>>4265070
Well, sure; that kind of tourney battle is what I'm expecting as well; but then a glaive, sword, or any other bladed weapon would also be substituted out with a non-lethal equivalent, so the mace doesn't have an advantage in non-lethality.

>>4265085
We probably don't have lightweird woods (or other materials), so the mace would be faster, lighter(safer), and have an easier learning curve since we can just swing it like we do an axe.
A glaive/etc on the other hand is way cooler. I wanna start busting out random
Seong Mi-na moves like pole vaulting away, turning midair and smacking him during the fall if he starts to slip past our guard.

>>4264653
changing to this

Glave wins outright based on everyone changing their votes.

>>4265213
You know, if I gotta be honest I like the Partisan Blade more because they always come out more ornate. Sadly, it looks like majority is towards the Glave.

>>4265238
Yeah. The Ahlefeldt partisan I posted up above is a particularly beautiful piece of work, but generally they were very lovely weapons. That's why I ended up leaning toward the partisan. If most anons prefer a curved, single-edged blade, though, I guess that's the way it is.

So I looked over it again and noticed it was actually a tie. I'm fucking choosing the Partisan Blade. Lets be honest fellows, if you guys wanted something nice and Noble looking Partisan is a much better way to go.

Also I understand how it works. The Glave just seems like a weapon you would find on Horse Lords, not Europeans. And you guys are as of now, shit at riding horses.

File: 00ca690989ae11b9134ad1dff(...).jpg (379 KB, 1024x1449)

379 KB JPG

Lady with glaives make me hard

Partisans were also used frequently by the nordic countries of Scandinavia, so using one fits in well with our training by the not-Varangians, even if the timeframe is a little out of whack.
That said, the glaive is a foot infantry weapon native to western Europe, so I'm not sure where the "horse lords not Europeans" idea comes from. The picture of one I posted above is of 17th century Italian manufacture, for example.

After a moment of looking, Maria’s eyes were caught by an odd weapon from the rest available. Similar to a spear, this weapon was a simple stil with a blade resting on the end. However she quickly realised just how ornate was.

“Hmm, what is this one brother?”

“That? It’s a Partisan Blade, perfect for keeping people at a distance.” He grew a slight smile, “Wanna try it out?”

“No reason not to.” Maria answered, taking up the weapon in hand and giving it a few swings.

“Well let's get started, now's not the time to be dilly dallying.”

With that Maria got a good bit more practice in working with her weapon. The extended range was much nicer, Maria would quickly admit as she was much more easily able to keep her brother away. However she quickly noticed that while she had a massive advantage in range, she would quickly lose it the moment someone got within her reach, which was easily expected of a polearm.

They trained and trained, soon calling it quits after the sun began to set. With ease Maria stowed the weapons and gave herself a modest cleaning up. With her heart still beating hard from the training regime her brother gave her, Maria started to make her way back.

At this time of day the majority of people were returning to their rooms and dorms, readying themselves for a night of sleep. Going about the place Maria was able to enjoy the soft yellow glow of a setting sun. At least it was not red, as last time she saw one like that was right before battle.

Soon after that thought after Maria heard another pair of footsteps coming down the hallway. What was soon revealed was a modest looking boy with a thin pair of glasses resting upon his nose. In his hands were stacks of papers that seemed just a little too big for the man.

The man surely seems to be struggling, but Maria’s body aches all over. Something told her that if she got involved with whatever he was doing, she would surely regret it later. But then there's the idea that she should be a good person…

Hmm, decisions decisions.

>Help the man out with his work
>Try and summon a Servant to help him out
>Leave him be for now, as Maria has much bigger fish to fry.

>>4265288
>>Help the man out with his work

>>4265288
>>Help the man out with his work

>>4265288
>Help the man out with his work
Let's divide it

>>4265288
>Summon a servant to help him out. It might hurt his pride to be forced to take help from a dainty lady like ourselves
>Realize that somebody really should invent a cart or dumbwaiter transportation system in this place.

>>4265288
>Help the man out with his work

>>4265288
>Summon a servant to help him out. It might hurt his pride to be forced to take help from a dainty lady like ourselves

>>4265288
>Help the man out with his work

>>4265288
>Help the man out with his work

“Here, let me help you.” Maria announced while making her way towards the man, “Even I can tell you are struggling too much with that.”

“Hmm you don’t-”

“There we go.” Before the man could do anything against her Maria had swiftly a good quarter of his stack into her hand, making it so she could atleast see him. Her eyes quickly began to widen as she finally realised who in fact it was, “Albert?”

“Oh, you know my name.” He grew a faint smile if scarce, “Uh, yeah I’m Albert Fiunni, son of the Helmlik Fiunni the Doge. Uh, who are you miss?”

“Maria Louisa Magnia, daughter of the Dragon.” Maria answered with a small bit of confusion, “Where are your Servants? Surely you would have some to carry simple paperwork.”

“Oh, them, well I was not able to bring any since none of them were Noble Born.”

“Noble Born, why would you not have any Noble born servants?”

“Well my family comes from a Merchant Republic, we don’t really have any Nobles unless you call the head families that.”

Maria could not help but slap her face in ignorance, “I should have realised that sooner.”

“Don’t worry, not many care for us until we stop giving our tithe.” He admitted with a subtle shake of the head.

They continued to walk down the halls, Maria’s muscles giving the slightest pop as they went. The capture target did not seem to notice, but Maria could feel a slight bit of pain coming from it. Well, hopefully nothing bad comes of it later.

“Alright, in here.” Skillfully the boy opened the door into what looked to be a modest office.

Setting down the paperwork finally relieved Maria of all that damn weight, “Why do you have so much paper? Who in their right minds assigned this?”

“That would be the Head of this Academy.” Albert said with another rough grin, “Though I brought it upon myself when I said I would help them organize.”

“Are you trying to get into the Good Grace of the Clergy?”

“Yup, because if I do who knows what could happen. The Clerical Lands are vast and plentiful, some even blessed by God himself. I would be a fool not to take up this opportunity!” The last sentence had the man lit up like fire.

>Leave him be, as Maria is definitely tired from todays workout and will need all she has to continue tomorrow.
>Ask him a little more about the state of clerical finances.
>Declare that Maria will send him a wagon to carry all these papers in later.
>Ask if she can help *Economics*

>>4265628
>>Ask him a little more about the state of clerical finances.
>Declare that Maria will send him a wagon to carry all these papers in later.

>>4265628
>Ask him a little more about the state of clerical finances.
>Declare that Maria will send him a wagon to carry all these papers in later.
befriending merchants are a good way of funding our defenses against the Miaphate

>>4265630
+1

>>4265628
>Ask him a little more about the state of clerical finances.
>Declare that Maria will send him a wagon to carry all these papers in later.

>>4265628
>You should probably get a small wheelbarrow to make things easier
>REST. The last thing we need is a sports injury before the duel and we might have already pushed it too much already.(Is Maria any good at massages?)

>>4265733
>Is Maria any good at massages
Giving our own self a massage might be a bit tough. Did you mean Melody, our maid?

>>4265744
Yeah. Big derp there on my part, but we can do a self massage if we have to?

“So what is their situation right now anyways?” Maria could not help but ask.

[Conversation Success]

“Well of course they hold lands all over, not just in the Holy Austin Empire but also in Albion and Fresco. Sadly these places are all sparsely exploited and without much gain to their coffers.”

“That does not sound very good.”

“Indeed, and based on documents like this one.” He quickly took a piece of paper off the top of the pile, “I can see them running a great risk of actually losing their lands of any of the Kingdoms decided to denounce their power.”

“But the power of God and Faith is undeniable though. I have met the Miaph!”

Albert gave a slight shrug, “I guess you're right, but its not just priests can practice magic and sorcery. I heard there are actually a series of covens of men devoted to trying to create gold from lead, some even succeeding.”

Now that Maria thought about it, she never really got an understanding on how magic works in this world. There were no massive sorceries or fireballs that practitioners could fling at one another, but what did they have in its stead?

“Anyways, my task right now is to figure out exactly what they own, or atleast what the Headmaster owns. It's been one hell of a task though.”

“Well we can’t have you lugging about all this stuff by yourself. Here tomorrow I will have a wheelbarrow and the like sent over to help you.” Maria announced with a smile, almost laughing as she did.

“W-why would you do that? I know my Father is the Steward, but that position is only reserved for the Doge.”

“Fufufu, because I would be a fool not making friends with a skilled merchant like yourself.” Maria admitted before growing a small blush, “And, well, I am relying on the Church myself. I want to make sure it stands any trials like some foolish referendum.”

“A-alright. Though if I gotta be honest you don’t strike me as the faithful type Miss Maria.”

“Again, Albert, I have witnessed the powers of the Miaph and how they are Demi-Gods on earth. Our Faith in the Clergy is needed to unite the Realms of our Faith in defeating them.” And with those words spoken Maria quickly started her way out of the room, “I will leave you be, as I am already feeling the pains of a day’s training.”

“Alright then, I hope to see you again, Miss. It was a pleasure talking to you!”

The feeling was somehow mutual, Maria would however be hard pressed to admit that. In any case, she had the coming spar with Ford to worry about.

Weapons Increased by 10, Economics by 5
>Take a few extra days to rest, if nothing else than to not wreck her own body
>Continue to practice, if at a relaxed state [Slight Weapons Increase]
>Continue in practice as usual, even if it hurts Maria cannot lose! [Weapon Skill Increase]
>See if there are other methods of victory *Intrigue*

>>4265762
>>Continue to practice, if at a relaxed state [Slight Weapons Increase]
I doubt we'll actually win, but at least we can put a good show on.

>>4265762
>>Continue to practice, if at a relaxed state [Slight Weapons Increase]

>>4265762
>Continue to practice, if at a relaxed state [Slight Weapons Increase]

>>4265762
>Continue to practice, if at a relaxed state [Slight Weapons Increase]
We gotta rest to properly grow and to be at our 100% in the fight

>>4265762
>Continue to practice, if at a relaxed state [Slight Weapons Increase]
>See if perfume spray bottles exist. If no, Ask Albert for assistance in being our distributor. If yes, Make pepper spray.
We can incapacitate and capture would be assassins with it. Or we can put it on surfaces an intruder might use to sneak in like the outside of window sills and doorknobs if we teach our maid to wear sets of gloves she disposes of inside to prevent her from touching her face afterwards. Easy to figure out who did what afterwards and water doesn't help. Gotta use milk to get rid of it.

>>4265762
>>Continue to practice, if at a relaxed state [Slight Weapons Increase]

the previous thread has yet to be archived, I have no idea how to archive something

>>4265762
>Take a few extra days to rest, if nothing else than to not wreck her own body

Rest was not really something that Maria was familiar with. As such, even if she was being worn down, she did not really stop training her skills. In her time of receiving the Partisan Blade, she has gotten quite proficient in using the weapon. Maybe it was because this weapon was also used by the Morse, or just that she was drilling herself into using it properly. Whatever the case truly was Maria was confident in her sheer ability.

Finally the day came, being a week after when Maria/Ford challenged one another. In the school of course there were mumblings and murmurs of this event happening, so a few people from the outside quickly took their places in the stands. Of course there were not that many as neither Maria nor Ford advertised it, but definitely enough made it to announce what exactly occurred here.

Currently, Maria was in the back finishing on putting on the armor that would be traditionally worn duels. First you were to put on a large amount of chainmail, followed by a series of plates that were meant to cover vitals. That translated to a simple chest plate being put on.

“So you are going to go through with this?” Maria quickly turned to see Ford standing there, his armor already equipped.

“I do, as even if my brother was the proxy I was technically the challenger. Even I, as a woman, must have pride when it comes to these affairs.” She cracked a wicked grin, “Though I have been trained by lots of different people, you can say I am an Expert of the blade by now.”

“Is that so…”

“Indeed, so I will wish you good luck in this bout. That good luck however comes into the fact that I will still win in the end.”

“I am confident in my own skill, Kingslayer.” His eyes narrowed, “If either of us are injured in this fight, know that we will need to pick up the responsibility of it.”

Well if Maria didn’t see that as a subtle threat, she didn’t know what it was. Guess he was still paranoid about her current state of affairs.

With that done, they both made it out into the arena. Quickly Maria looked around into the crowds, finding not only the First Prince and his group, but also the Second Prince who was seated with Albert and another cohort. Guess she was right in that they were the same person as she assumed.

Of course the quick look on his face was priceless.

“Go Maria! Beat his ass!” She heard Bon cheer from the First Prince’s seats without much shame, of course Maria grew a small amount of it herself.

As he finished, the First Prince rose from his seat, “The Spar is simple, you are to fight till first contact, best out of three. Attacks to the head with a weapon are strictly prohibited, and injury will require compensation. You may begin now.”

And with that, Maria took a readied stance while Ford took his own with a standard longsword. Now how is she going to do this...

>>With all of these, I need a roll with 1d100!
>Go offensive, using Maria’s better reach to get a hit in early
>Stay defensive, using said reach to keep him away
>Kick up some dust to smack him in the eyes with *Intrigue*

Rolled 98 (1d100)

>>4266441
>Go offensive, using Maria’s better reach to get a hit in early
It's a best of three, let's keep it fair

Rolled 72 (1d100)

>>4266447
>Go offensive, using Maria’s better reach to get a hit in early
Dice gods, don't fail us now.

Rolled 51 (1d100)

>>4266447
Feign going for an offensive and being pushed back into a defensive style to test him out for our first point or two. We can get the last point by surprising him with our true skill at offensive styles after he thinks he has us figured out. Being underestimated is how we won before. Why not give it a shot again and make it look like we were toying with him?
>>4266466
>Keep it fair.
>Rolls a 98
I guess even holding back took him by surprise.

>>4266481
>Keep it fair.
>Rolls a 98
>I guess even holding back took him by surprise.
it was supposed to not use our intrigue skills for now

>>4266485
Was just commenting on your roll juxtaposed with my plan/vote.

I do wanna say this again now, but you aim is to roll low. However, you guys have hit my injury threshhold.

With her pole arm in hand Maria was the first to attack, her spear reaching the distance with ease. However just as she did, Ford was easily able to counter the attack with a parry of his blade, sending her wide open for attack.

Quickly Maria tried to pull back her weapon, but a sudden onset of pain ran through her shoulder for just a moment. It was a sharp sting, nothing too brutal but Maria already knew what was going to happen before of it.

A swift strike with a sword slammed into her chestplate, sending the Kinglsayer down upon the ground with ease.

One point for the Son of the Marshal, as expected.

“That was good technique, but your body was not able to follow it up.” Ford answered with a lackluster frown, “How hard have you been training?”

“Too hard I guess.” Maria answered before using her polearm to quickly get back up.

The stands were quite, everyone watching with immense interest at the going bout below them. As expected of Nobles, they decided that when the action started to shut themselves up and watch with intense eyes.

“Round two then.” Maria announced while getting back up.

“Are you sure you should not rest if you are injured?”

“And make a fool of myself, honestly what do you take me for?”

“Sorry I asked.” He gave a curt bow before taking up his position once more.

>>With all of these, I need a roll with 1d100!
>Go offensive, using Maria’s better reach to get a hit in early
>Stay defensive, using said reach to keep him away
>Lure out a parry with a feigned attack *Intrigue*

Alright, now just don't roll >98

>>4266743
>I do wanna say this again now, but you aim is to roll low. However, you guys have hit my injury threshhold.
o-ok then. it's been so long since we've rolled in this quest that i forgot this detail.Most of my high rolls are in these roll under quests. my dissapointment is immeasurable and my day is ruined

Rolled 15 (1d100)

>>4266761
>Lure out a parry with a feigned attack *Intrigue*
Now that i remember, our last roll was supposes to be higher, so this was confusing, but let's go

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>4266761
I went from expecting to accidentally one shot our opponent to "Oh no!"
>The injury will be a problem he's sure to take advantage of. Lure out a parry with a feigned attack *Intrigue*

>>4266785
>I went from expecting to accidentally one shot our opponent to "Oh no!"
same

Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>4266761
>Lure out a parry with a feigned attack *Intrigue*

Once the two were set into their stances, trying their best to figure out exactly what the other was thinking. For what Maria quickly noticed, her opponent has become much more laxed than before. Maybe it was because she was injured or maybe he was just being foolish, but she could certainly take this to her advantage.

So with a single breath, Maria extended her weapon forward. At the same time her opponet brought his weapon upwards to somehow try and parry the blow, but that was exactly what Maria wanted him to do.

With a quick motion backwards, Maria brought her spear like weapon back into her control. Ford’s eyes quickly widened as he was quickly overextending, having expected to hit her weapon in the process of parrying her.

So Maria struck again, a quick gab at the gut enough to make a resounding clang that went throughout the entire arena.

One point towards Maria.

While before none made a murmur because of edicate, now they were simply intrigue and stunned. Never did they expect Maria to make contact with the most proficient swordsman on campus, and definitely not after she had just experienced an injury. Some would say she feigned it, but the next words from Ford ended that thought.

“I was foolish. An injured animal is much more deadly than one at full health.”

“Indeed it is, though I thank you for falling for it. I wondered if it would actually work.”

“Then we have one last attack then.”

“Indeed, or maybe there will be two. You never know.”

“Indeed, I do not know.”

With those words exchanged, they got back into their stances.

>>With all of these, I need a roll with 1d100!
>Go offensive, using Maria’s better reach to get a hit in early
>Stay defensive, using said reach to keep him away
>Throw the fight, for both Ford, the Empires, and Maria’s image *Intrigue*

Rolled 36 (1d100)

>>4266761
>Stay defensive, using said reach to keep him away

Im making these quick, because I can make them short then!

>>4266833
>>Throw the fight, for both Ford, the Empires, and Maria’s image *Intrigue*

Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>4266833
>Stay defensive, using said reach to keep him away
I don’t see how this third option can help us in any way

>>4266837
Are getting the first roll or it’s bot ?

>>4266833
>Stay defensive and punish him when he tries to break past our guard thinking that we have run out of adrenaline.

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>4266880
>>4266833

Oops again. Chrome keeps on capitalizing my dice input for some reason.

File: ooooooooOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.gif (1.03 MB, 360x202)

1.03 MB GIF

Rolled 100 (1d100)

>>4266884
>>4266853

>>4267014
You did that on purpose, didn't you?
Hopefully it's an assassination attempt that ganks us out of nowhere after we win so that we don't end up looking like a punk.

There is always a chance for a one. Keep rolling.

File: peace was is not an option.jpg (14 KB, 378x396)

14 KB JPG

Rolled 1 (1d001)

>>4267022
>There is always a chance for a one. Keep rolling.

>>4267022
but there were already 3 roll my dude

>>4267022
also you were doing it quick, if you hadn't misteriously waited long for this final part, we were good

>>4267028
>>4267029
Funny thing was I was going to, then I saw 100.

Don't worry too much about failure, I can already think of how I can take this story a good way with it.

>>4267036
We dun got smited by the pagan gods.

>>4267036
but there were already 3 rolls OP :(
that was a bad time to switch the rolls to under, but it's life isn't it ? sigh, going by what happened with the 98, another injury to us

Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>4267036
fucking bullshit fuck you kill yourself you randomly changed the dice system and now you fucking took the fourth roll you bitch kill yourself

I am gonna roll for no fucking reason

>>4267014
you too fucking kill yourself faggot

>>4267036
you want to fucking humiliate our character is that you fucking fetish you little bitch I guess you also like NTR you little bitch cuck fucking kill yourself

I can accept us losing with the 98 but you taking the 100 roll is making me want to commit a fucking murder suicide, rename yourself to Cuck QM

I say skin all the infants in the holy autist empire and turn it into tapestry, think about how much money we would get from selling the tapestry to filthy savages in the east

>>4267014
fucking paid actor

Rolled 79 (1d100)

>>4267036
you didn't even tell us about the fact that high number good and low number bad you fucking bitch

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>4267255
no wait high number bad and low number good

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>4267036
fuck you you never told us anything about a crit override and since you have broken the rules then so shall I, I am going to roll until we get a 1

>>4267014
leave this realm and never come back you fucking cuck

>>4267036
I don't trust you to not make us look like an autistic little bitch

Rolled 74, 49, 16, 67, 7, 60, 68, 69, 21, 90 = 521 (10d100)

>>4267036
fuck you

Rolled 83 (1d100)

>>4267036
no no no you fucking bitch, you can't take the 4th roll since that means there are no best of insert number that means there are infinite rolls

Rolled 71 (1d100)

>>4267036
you are the only QM who has been able to make me this fucking salty, I fucking care about our characters reputation but you seem to do everything in your power to figuratively FUCK US

>>4267036
no fuck and you story you choose the roll 1d100 dice system to fuck us you fucking know how much the dice favors big numbers and adding crit override on that is going to make it even worse

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>4267036
kill yourself QM most quest do best of 3 yet just because you see a 100 doesn't make it count you fucking cuck please kill yourself.

I thought this quest would go the distance but you are the fucking cancer that kills it you piece of shit

Rolled 91 (1d100)

>>4267036
fuck you, you can't just do something that arbitrary, even if it would make a good story

Y so mad on an Surinamese weaving board anon?

>>4267364
yes I am mad, I am mad at the QM taking the fourth roll even though it was Bo3, I am also mad at the QM for making us take the L even though we should not have; I am mad at the QM also due tp the fact that he never said that crit overrode previous stuff, I AM EXTREMELY MAD THAT OUR CHARACTER IS GOING TO BE HUMILIATED THAT EVEN THOUGH WE ARE NEARLY AN EXPERT AT COMBAT WE ARE GOING TO BE STOMPED ON

I think i'll go play some vidya until things calm down.

>>4267376
The only person humiliated is you for embarrassing yourself. Go back to your containment board you autist.

File: Zki6LEk.gif (1016 KB, 345x352)

1016 KB GIF

Rolled 70 (1d100)

Hey what's going on in this-

>>4267036
QM what the fuck does the weapons skill stat even do?

QM please ignore this screaming autist please don't leave this quest is super comfy-

Also I'm liking the 100, sucks that Maria lost but injuries demand compensation as per the rules of the duel and Maria can milk a ''''lot'''' of compensation from a nat 100 injury.

I'm really wondering if QM will take the nat 1 as well...

>>4267401
Rolled 1 (1d001)
Look a little closer.

>>4267401
It's not a nat 1, look closer. Also seconding, please don't leave QM. Ignore the screeching autist and filter his ID.

>>4267403
>>4267404
Whoops I've outed that I can't read

Ah whatever the nat 100 hijinks are gonna be good. I'm really looking forward to whatever gets in Ford's head to make him body her. (taking her a little too seriously maybe?)

The talk about sudden assassins sounds good too - especially since we've just pissed off a bunch of schemers

>>4267036
after having gone on a walk I have cooled my head down and decided that the things I said were uncalled for and wishes to apologize

Rolled 16 (1d100)

Uh, I fell asleep. I was just leaving it open just in case someone else wanted to roll.

Also, I've made it clear in this Quest that its best of all. So I want people to remember that. Also, It takes a lot more than that to get under my skin, especially if Im asleep.

>>4267475
That's it I'm out. Let it die guys. This quest is shit.

>>4267475
well I recommend that you from now do Bo3 without crit override due to the fact that 1d100 is in fact very favored towards big numbers and with this quests dice system it makes the battles way too annoying

>>4267487
Crit override was only for this fight, as you guys decided to help out Albert. Yeah, it was a throw away that I didn't think would come into play htis much, but hey, its gonna be entertaining.

As for best of all, I like it because I can get as many rolls as you guys want. I won't change that just because you guys messed up in a spar of all things.

>>4267491
never fucking crit override ever again and also are we gonna get humiliated by this shit roll and also what does the weapon skill stat even do?

>>4267495
In this instance, its the highest you can roll to succeed. Of course, your opponents roll too because I like rolling myself.

>>4267491
and does that mean that us helping somebody is going to get us punished eventually then I say we fucking burn dow the holy austin empire

>>4267502
Calm down, anon. It's because we strained ourself after practicing. It was signposted before we made the choice and during the update when we helped merchant boy. Best of all rolls crit override is generally bullshit, but in this situation I was expecting us to have a guaranteed loss, what with the messed-up shoulder. It's not so bad.
>>4267499
That said, opposed rolls really take away a chunk of the meaning from having our skill dictate the DC. I would suggest either not using opposed rolls or revamping the skill modifier into an actual modifier to our roll (i.e. 1d100-X with x dependent on our skill value.)

>>4267510
Hmm, I got two things then.

Either add your weapon skill to all attack, making it a roll higher, or we just make it a DC.

>>4267502
Oh fuck off please. Go take a anger management therapy and don't bother coming back.

>>4267512
Jesus can you just make it best of 3? Why bang your head on such things when it's easier to count the first 3 numbers that anons rolled. Then if you are doing a roll under then you would minus the stat of the said skill. Adding a DC to a roll works when rolling upper.

Your system is whack and you only make it complicated. You'll only abandon this idea or the dice doesn't matter anymore.

>>4267517
no you fuck off

>>4267519
Alright, best of three. I didn't think it was that much in demand, but I guess its well liked.

The adding was because you guys would like insanely high numbers, but I can just as easily made it subtract.

>>4267495
>>4267499
>>4267519

Imagine SEETHING this badly over a single roll. You don't have to read this if you don't like it anon. Just let it go. The sunk cost fallacy isn't real. Let us enjoy things without having to read your unintelligent rants.

At the drop of a hat, both combatants started to move. Though this movement was not at eachother, as Maria had finished training Ford into expecting her to do an assault. The slight narrowing of his eyes and changing of stances made it clear he was simply expecting her to attack him for the finish.

For Maria, it would be good to mess with her opponents from time to time.

Ford took the message that he was suppose to attack first, and so he did just that while charging towards Maria with his sword.

Just as he attacked with his sword Maria slammed her’s into it for a parry. It was not the best parry, considering she was using a polearm to perform it. However,it work in disorienting him and giving her a chance to stab him in the gut.

Just as she was going to however, the man quickly brought his blade down and blocked the attack! How he did that, Maria does not really even know herself.

And like a flash, Ford quickly went around her weapon’s reach and into close combat with her. Quickly it became a task of dodging and weaving through a series of strikes, getting Maria’s blood pumping immensely so!

However all that combat must come at an end, and it was surely to Maria’s advantage. With a quick movement she back out of the man’s reach with her able weapon. In his series of attack Ford has both overextended and exhausted himself, a small fury in his eyes evident. All Maria did now, was throw her Partisan Blade forward and strike him in the chest.

And then a pop rang throughout the entire arena, before Maria could even register the massive amounts of pain a torn shoulder would give, her opponent selfishly took the opportunity and struck at her chest. There was no holding back in the attack,

And like that, Maria was sent into the realm of unconsciousness. Though as he did, she could not help but hear the laughter of Gods celebrating her injuries.

It was quite blurry when Maria first opened her eyes, the feeling in her lower chest and shoulder feeling like they were on fire. However, let it be through her training or experience, she was able to easily keep her wails of pain in check for just a moment.

Her eyes searched the room, which led to the first thing she was not expecting. Sitting in a chair to her right was in fact the victor himself, Ford, slumped over in a defenceless sleep. The reason why he was here, maybe he had some chivalry after all.

In her painful lul, she checked out the entire room. It seemed that Maria was placed into some kind of infirmary, which should have been a no brainer for an academy with so many underage children.

“Finally you’re awake Sister!” Just coming into the doorway was Bon who was already running towards Maria with a blitz. However, before he could make contact, the sudden sound of metla being drawn rang.

“Do not get closer, you will only injure her more.” The words were both loud and mumble, but either way they came from when was thought to be a sleeping Ford.

“She’s my sister though.”

“And you’re the one who promoted such a disastrous training regiment to her.”

“Guh!” Just like that, Maria saw her brother falter onto the ground like he was a punished puppy.

>Try and take the heat off Bon, as Maria was the one who suggested training.
>Reprimand Ford for yelling at her brother.
>Ask where the hell a Healer is.
>Other

>>4267525
QM this is for your quest and your readers. Characterization is fine. In fact I prefer Maria to lose much because of her Villainess archetype but please don't drag your quest down because of shitty system such as "roll whatever you want Bois and I'll pick whatever number I want" because that's shit and it's bad. Please remember that.

>>4267531
>Try and take the heat off Bon, as Maria was the one who suggested training.
Honestly, losing here is probably the best thing for our reputation. Everyone invested in winning, I'd like you to remember that this is a fantasy renaissance setting and we're a noblewoman, not a nobleman. We're meant to be a delicate flower, not a gallant knight. Defeating the prince's personal guard in a spar would only make our reputation worse and harm our marriage prospects. This way we can frame the thing as having demonstrated great skill but losing due to a difference in strength, and regain a modicum of femininity.

>>4267531
>Try and take the heat off Bon, as Maria was the one who suggested training

>>4267531
>>Try and take the heat off Bon, as Maria was the one who suggested training.

>>4267531
>>Ask where the hell a Healer is.

>>4267531
>Try and take the heat off Bon, as Maria was the one who suggested training

>>4267532
The system doesn't make sense I agree. But if it creates a more interesting story and fun shenanigans then it served its purpose.

>>4267531
>Try and take the heat off Bon, as Maria was the one who suggested training.
Bruh Ford is giving me big tsundere vibes here and I'm loving kt

Is it safe to come out now?
>>4267525
Best of three is the local standard from what I can tell but it can really be any number. Just remember that the more people rolled, the more wildly the crit fail/success dice rolls go and the easier it is to get higher numbers. The higher numbers can easily be offset by you giving a bonus to whatever the difficulty check is. You don't really have to tell anyone that you added a hidden DC bonus to make people feel better about rolling and it lets you fudge numbers if you think winning/losing is more conducive to your storytelling at the time.
>>4267531
>Try and take the heat off Bon, as Maria was the one who suggested training, we didn't take time to at least rest the day before the match when we knew we slightly strained our shoulder on the first day. This was entirely a mistake of our own making. (When things are more private we tell him to consider the feelings of the people he drags into a scheme more before doing it. It can get dangerous if he does it to the wrong person. Then a bunch of hugs with our working arm, reminding him that we love him, and say we can't stay mad at him, he's the only brother we've got left.)

(Shoving the blame on Bon implies that he should have seen it coming too. It's kinda dumb to blame Bon on us having a workout routine that's too hard when if it was THAT obvious, he could have asked to stall the date a day or so to force both participants to rest, or had doctors check out each participant to ensure they were in top shape for safety. )
>Ask for a healer and a priest/scholar. We heard laughing gods, so it would be best to make sure they didn't leave behind any surprises/omens if possible.

>>4267531
>Try and take the heat off Bon, as Maria was the one who suggested training.
We were so close, if we had rolled lower than the 51 in our first roll, it was gonna be lemon squeeze. I’m curious QM, you updated fast in the second round, why did it took so long in the third one ? Because that’s why the nat 100 even happened

>>4267613
Going to be honest, I was fucking lazy. It was about 1am est and I was wondering how to finish it off, then it happened.

League of Legends is addicting sometimes.

>>4267617
I’m kinda salty because our last roll was for the highest, but that’s life. Waiting for our nat 1 in a roll over.

“Ford, it was my decision, not my Brother’s.” Maria claimed with a sigh, “I simply did not wish to embarrass myself, though it seems I have gone too far and did just that.”

“... fine.”

“Thank you.” Maria ended with a smile before sinking deeper into her bed.

“Ah, it seems you are all finished.” Maria’s head snapped to see a priest coming into the room, a small laxed smile upon his face, “It is good you have regained a state of mind Maria Regnia, if it was longer than a few hours I surely would have pressed for your immediate expedite to a shrine.”

“Th-thank you Father. Are you by chance the one who took care of me?”

“Indeed I am. As far as I can see, your body has suffered a few broken bones and a popped shoulder. These men here made sure to pop it back in before bringing you to me, but the damage has already been done of course.”

“Uh, I guess this is where you let some of my blood? I would prefer not to have that happen.”

“Hmm, maybe its different on the fringes of civilization but here it is different. Simply bed rest would do you the best, however if you desire both a complete and speedy recovery I suggest visiting the Shrine of Saint Hospital.”

“R-really? Would that heal me so much?”

“As you are much more pious than the standard sort of Nobles, I am sure the Lord’s servant would bless you. Oh, and also,” The man reached into his pocket and handed Maria a finger resting on a necklace, “I saw while your things were being moved over that this was among them. You should not go too far without it.”

Maria accepted the Finger, the subtly morbid object now resting in her hands. In an instant, she could feel her senses return, as if something was denying them for all her time.

The Gods of the Miaph were definitely laughing.

>Ask to organize a trip to this Shrine
>Simply take bed rest
>Ask to be alone for a moment, but not before thanking Bon for all he did over the week.
>Other

>>4267655
>Ask to organize a trip to this Shrine

>>4267655
>>Ask to organize a trip to this Shrine

>>4267655
>Shrine trip
>Have a purse or something to put the finger in that's less easily stolen than a flimsy necklace around our neck. Even a hidden finger pouch padded and stitched into our dresses can work.

>>4267655
>Ask to organize a trip to this Shrine

“Then I will need to organize a trip as soon as possible.” Maria admitted while rubbing her most likely broken ribs.

“Very good, then I hope you receive the Saint’s blessing.” With that said, the Father exited the room with a smile adorning his face.

Slowly Ford raised himself from his chair, “Then I will start preparations for the Journey.”

“Preparations?” Bon quickly asked with a raised brow, “You make it sound like you will be the one who will be taking her.”

“Do you have a problem with that?”

“Well, kind of,” Bon grew a small pout, “You were the one who injured her after all.”

“Is that not the exact reason to do so?” Maria could not help but feel Ford’s sudden anger, to which she could quickly compare it to a dog defending their injured owner.

Maira gave a sigh, “Ford, you can calm down already. I am fine, and it would be nice to leave the school for a moment.”

“But I made a vow.”

“And you are yelling at my brother. Please, do so before I ask Father to pour Holy Water ontop of your head.”

A small click came from his mouth before Ford finally sat himself back down. Somehow Maria could never remember the man acting like this in the Otome game, so as to the reason for these outbursts she does not really know.

That did lead to the fact she needed to visit the shrine. Though the more and more she thought about it, this would be a good chance to know someone more.

>Go at it alone
>Agree to have Ford follow, as he desired it.
>Go with just Bon, as he is Maria’s brother
>Have all of them go, seeing if Maria can draw Lucien out as well
>Maybe contact Albert, as he might know more about this trip than these two knuckleheads.
>Or customize your party. Keep in mind you will need to convince them too.

>>4267949
>Agree to have Ford follow, as he desired it.
Let him come as well

>>4267949
>Agree to have Ford follow, as he desired it.
Did ford just fall for us?

>>4267949
>Have all of them go, seeing if Maria can draw Lucien out as well
You miss 100% of the shots you don't take
>+ Albert
He was going on about wanting to know more about the church, right?

>>4267991
Support, why not?

>>4267949
That much possessiveness is normally considered a red flag. We need to set boundaries. We probably also don't want our father mistaking it as a go ahead for shipping behind our back before a surprise arranged marriage happens.

Even putting a positive spin on it; If we wanted a whipped dog we'd have trained that Arabian shota prince.
>>4267949
>Go with Bon.
>Write a letter to Annelies to slip in along with our mail to our friends. Let her know about our first lesson being about working with everyone. (and to get people drunk to learn their secrets) One can be disagreeable about how he handled the recent situation between you two, (assuming I interpreted it right, he was willing to take the title, but was procrastinating to see how the council and Annelies would screw up before making a risk due to how blatant they are. I'm still suspicious since he doesn't even seem to be publicly considering that said council could have killed his parents and uncle.) but he does appear to have some sense of justice even if he can come off as callous. He's more trustworthy than whatever vipers will be your true enemies in the future. You don't have to reconcile right away, I'm just advising you to consider it in the future.
>Bribe the postmaster to inform you of anyone trying to read through our mail.
>>4267991
Good point. I can support. Albert with Bon as a chaperone to prevent any appearance of impropriety?

>>4267991
+1
who is ford now again?

>>4268088
The possible tsundere(yandere?) we just had an arena fight with. Your confusion is probably because other players have been using his last name I think?

Maria thought about it for a moment, the wonder on whether or not she should allow all this to happen. In her honest opinion she would be fine with just having her brother and Ford come along with her, but something about how Ford is acting…

Then the aspect which is Prince Lucien came into her mind. Maybe this could be a chance to drag the man out kicking and screaming, even if it's kind of dirty using her own injuries against him.

“Alright, how about this then. Both of you will come along with me to the Shrine.” Maria announced with a smug smile plastered upon her face.

The two looked at her for a moment, before looking at one another. Soon enough it was Ford who sighed with a small bit of reluctance, “There would be no problem with that. My duty is still fulfilled if your brother does not mind me going.”

“I don’t since this is my sister who said it. Though Maria, I’m getting the feeling that you want to bring some more people with us.”

“Saw right through me, did you Brother.” Maria gave him a slightly coy smile, “I have a few others, but I will surely need to talk to them first before I actually finalized the crew.”

“Alright, just don’t make it too many. And keep yourself rested until we leave.” Bon called out while pointing his finger, “You think a week will be good enough Ford?”

“Yes, it would.”

Maria gave a relieved sigh, “Alright then, now if you don’t mind Ford I need to talk to my brother personally.”

The man in question seemed a little put off at first, before turning to Bon and giving a sigh, “Alright, Bon I’ll be waiting for you outside so we can discuss what our plans will be.”


With that the two were alone, so Maria gave another sigh of relief, “Alright Bon, just be sure later on not bringing in people who are not prepared for your schemes. Someone might get hurt more if it was not me.”

“I mean, yeah sorry. I just wanted him to like you more, so I thought that spar would be a good idea.” The boy answered while scratching the back of his head.

“Well just be careful from here onwards, and leave the scheming to me. Now here let me give you a hug!”

After a quick embrace Maria saw Bon out, though now she needed to think about what to do next. There were people to see, and she had about a week to do it.

>Go see Albert first
>Go see the First Prince Lucien
>Just rest in the bed, see who shows up first.

>>4268457
>Garden
I mean, fresh air usually helps

>>4268457
>Just rest in the bed, see who shows up first.

>>4268457
>Just rest in the bed, see who shows up first.
We...actually are injured here, which is mainly caused by us pushing ourselves too much.

Let's take some time to rest up and see if someone (most likely Albert, my jaw will actually be on the floor if it's Lucien) turns up. Plus this sends out the message to the rest of the student body that Maria's injuries are pretty serious, which will be good when Maria makes her case that she *absolutely must* take some of the school's most eligible bachelors out on her little pilgramage.

>>4268457
>Just rest in the bed, see who shows up first.
we need to rest

>>4268457
>Time to rest already. We really should learn our lesson.

>>4268457
>>Just rest in the bed, see who shows up first.

>>4268457
>Just rest in the bed, see who shows up first

>>4268457
>>Just rest in the bed, see who shows up first.

>>4268491

This anon makes a good argument. Seconding.

So Maria took the rest of the day to rest her worn muscles and bones. For the most part no one came in to annoy her or talk to her, but in her honest opinion Maria found it a little nice. Of course, she was sad none of the posse actually came to visit her as of yet. Yes, such good friends they are.

Soon though the door on the other end of her room opened, though she must have surely spoken too soon.

“Uh, Miss Maria, are you awake?” Maria’s eyes widened when she saw none other than Elizabeth coming into the room, “Uh, I heard you were injured, and uh, sorry I did not come over sooner for you.”

“Its alright, thank you for coming Elizabeth. Though where are all the others?”

“Well Erica said she was busy on some school work and I, uh, could not find Tracy.” The girl quickly reached into her pocket and brought out a small sweet, “Though Erica wanted me to give you this!”

A little bit of confusion in Maria’s heart was evident as she accepted the item. It was a simple candy, though Maria placed it off to the side for now. She would probably never trust anything she got from the other two girls, so maybe if she had to chance she would share it with someone.

Definitely not Elizabeth, as she actually showed up to her bed.

“How did you learn of my injury? I would be hard pressed if it didn’t make the news throughout the entire school.”

“Oh that, well I heard it from some classmates first. Something about you dueling Ford?”

“Sounds about right, and I was this close to actually getting him too.” Maria flopped onto her pillow with a sigh, “I guess being nice has its downsides if you are not careful.”

“Downsides? Who did you help?”

“Oh, just a boy by the name of Albert.” Maria could not help but laugh as Elizabeth’s face became beet red.

“Y-you were talking to him! B-but you also knew Ford!”

“You learn to get around and talk to everyone when you can, Elizabeth.” Maria could not help but grow a cynical smile, “Though it would be quite a blessing if he would show up. I’m pretty sure helping him is what led me to this state.”

Elizabeth was almost guttering at this point, “D-do you want me to go get him!?”

>”Sure, I do not see a reason why not. “
>”No, find my maid. Melody should have come seen me by now!”
>”No, stay with me a little longer. Surely I’m not the only buzz in the academy”
>Write in

>>4269064
>”No, find my maid. Melody should have come seen me by now!”

>>4269064
>”No, stay with me a little longer. Surely I’m not the only buzz in the academy”

>>4269064
>>”No, stay with me a little longer. Surely I’m not the only buzz in the academy”

>>4269064
>”No, stay with me a little longer. Surely I’m not the only buzz in the academy”
Let's not go borrowing trouble.

>>4269064
>>”No, stay with me a little longer. Surely I’m not the only buzz in the academy”

>>4269064
>Maybe later, blaming him after an act of kindness would make me look like some sort of devious calculating serpent and I need some rest. There was something else I wanted to talk to him about.
>>”No, stay with me a little longer. Surely I’m not the only buzz in the academy”

“No no, stay here a little longer Elizabeth. I’ve been talking to those guys for so long that I might start questioning my sanity.” Maria joked with a cynical smirk.

“Oh, alright.”

“So, how are things about the Academy. Surely I’m not the only person who made a storm of things.”

“Indeed,” Elizabeth nodded her head for a moment, “I heard there will be a new student coming in soon. In a few months actually.”

“Oh, is that so?”

“Indeed, apparently a Baron’s had an illicit affair with a commoner. He’s just recently acknowledged his Bastard Daughter when both his son and wife died of a plague!” Elizabeth was covering her mouth, as if she was saying something extremely dangerous.

“That sounds like quite the series of events.”

“Indeed.” Elizabeth nodded along for a moment before an explanation mark appeared over her head, “Oh yeah, the entire matter involving Annalies finished. Her Council was fired, and she has received a regent directly from the Emperor himself.”

“That's good for her, do you know what she is doing now?”

“Well, she’s started hanging out with Tracy recently. Thats where I heard about all this from.” Elizabeth quipped, “I also heard something about the Second Prince starting to form a faction in the school.”

“A faction?”

“Yup, he’s trying to get support for the Throne though not very hard yet. Supposably he’s working first with the Merchants, rumors say he’s gonna try to get some Barons on his side soon.”

“Really…”

That does not sound like something Maria should know.

>Try and open up another subject *What*
>Simply ask her to leave so Maria could continue resting
>Take a day, then go find Albert/Lucien *Which One*
>Other things you want to do?

>>4269561
>Other things you want to do?
Ask her if she can call our maid to us, it’s been some time since we’re here and she didn’t come yet

>>4269561
>Take a day, then go find Albert/Lucien *Which One*
>Albert
Hmmm, all this gossip about the second prince makes me want to touch in with the one person in his posse that we know.

Plus we gotta capitalize on the good sentiment we've built with Albert ASAP before it fades. Hopefully Elizabeth would have spread the fact that us helping him kinda cost us the duel before we meet up with him.

>>4269561
>Find Albert

>>4269585
+1

>>4269561
>Take a day, then go find Albert
Let's keep working on that connection to Elric. Long term, if we get him on the throne and our villainness married to him, we could be looking at a real pair of strong monarchs to take the fight to the Miaphate.

After that conversation the day quickly went by for Maria, soon becoming the next one. In that time, her pain had luckily subsided for the most part by the morning. Still, Maria would not be that hard pressed if she didn’t admit that it would probably start hurting again if she moved too much

With a sigh she walked down the corridors and through the halls. Her arm wrapped up in a makeshift cast. It was only able to keep her arm up, nothing that would truly make sure her shoulder went back into place. It would work however, if this healing occurs correctly.

Soon she arrived infront of a pair of door, quickly she knocked on them to see if anyone would answer.

“Uh, come in.”

With those words spoken, Maria entered the door to see a rather pathetic looking Albert crotched over some books. A quick glance easily told her they were accounting books, though she could not tell what most of the data meant.

“Hmm?” Slowly the man turned about, “Oh Miss Maria, I was not expecting you! I saw you got injured in the arena two days ago. Are you alright?”

“I am doing fine, thank you Albert.” Maria answered with a soft smile.

“So, uh, do you desire some tea or something? Surely walking so much was not the best for your injury.”

“If you would be so kind.”

With that the man quickly got a tea set together and boiling. Within only a few moments of Maria arriving she was openly welcomed and given a cup of a preferred kind of tea.

“So how has your work been coming, I believe the wheelbarrow surely helped you.” Maria asked with a small sip of tea.

“Pretty well, I’m actually about finished with all thats here. Though things are still not looking the best for sure.” He admitted with a frown.

>Ask him if he wishes to come directly
>Try and lure Albert through teasing the possibility
>Simply enjoy his company for the moment *Subject is write in*
>Ask him about Prince Elric

>>4270252
>Ask him if he wishes to come directly
I'm torn between this and luring him in - but I think luring him in might check against conversation rather than intrigue.

>>4270252
>Ask him if he wishes to come directly

>>4270252
>Ask him if he wishes to come directly

>>4270252
>>Try and lure Albert through teasing the possibility

>>4270252
>Try and lure Albert through teasing the possibility

“Well I need to make a journey towards the Shrine of Saint Hospit.” Maria admitted straight out with a calm smile, “I was wondering if you desired to come along with me so you can get some more paper work.”

“W-wait really?” The man’s face became that of beet red, “Are you sure about that? I mean, going on a pilgrimage is something you shouldn’t take so lightly.”

“Well, you see I am already going with my brother and Ford. Fords going because he owes it to me as payback for giving me several broken ribs.” Maria could not help but give a slight laugh, “And my brother because he is my brother.”

“Well if you say that, still. I would not want to impede on you.”

“Oh, but you already owe me for the wagon and helping you out a few days ago. Why this even benefits you, so why not come.”

[Conversation Success]

“A-alright. Uh, when will you all start the pilgrimage?”

“Probably right after classes on Friday. If we are lucky, we should arrive right before Sunday’s night.”

“Alright, I’ll try and requisition a horse and wagon.”

>Talk to him about other things
>Move on to Prince Lucien
>Host a tea party with Maria’s friends
>Read a book *What Skill you wanna build on*

>>4270777
>>Move on to Prince Lucien

>>4270777
>Read a book *What Skill you wanna build on*
Our conversation

>>4270777
>Move on to Prince Lucien

Good morning

>>4270777
>>4270788
Support. We gotta get our conversation up a little bit if we don't want a repeat of last time we spoke to Lucien.

We still have like 5 days before we leave, right?

>>4270777
>Talk to him about other things
>Ask him what he means by things not being the best

+1 to this >>4271230 after

“So what do you mean that things are not the best?” Maria inquired to the accountant.

“For the Church.” The man bit his lip before giving it a small shake, “The Church has losts of lands from the old eras, but none of it is being exploited to its fullest.”

“Exploited? Are you talking about some technological revolutions?”

“Exactly!” The man cheered, “Some of the lands in the west are starting to change their practices in farming. I’ve estimated that if the Church was to take advantage of these, they would see to at least double their incomes.”

“Really?! Thats a lot!”

“Yup, but we’ll see whether they are willing to start doing it.” He lamented, “Sadly unless it comes straight from the Pope I find it hard for all the priests to start following it.”

With that they talked a little more before Maria made her way out of the room and towards the Library. She might as well finish the day off with a few good reads before the day’s through.

It would be when Maria returned to her room that she noticed the place was already gaining some dust from disuse. It was quite odd, in her general opinion, as Melody should have taken care of the place for sure.

Taking a seat on her desk, she quickly cleared out what seemed to be a variety of homework and papers to get a nice place to read more. Though as she did, Maria could not help but notice a small envelope on the desk. Unlike everything else there, this one was still sealed by a rudimentary wax seal.

Popping it open, Maria gave it a quick read:

My Sincerest Apologies Maria Louisa Regnia,

I have just received word of my family coming into serious trouble, and I need to quickly go and check up on them. I know you were suppose to have your spar today, and I hope that you succeed in it. It is dishonorable of me to leave on such short notice, but the matter is gravely urgent.

-Melody

>Send her a letter demanding her return
>Simply write her off here and now.
>Let this go for the moment
>Track her down so maybe Maria can find her soon.

>>4271495
>>Track her down so maybe Maria can find her soon.

>>4271495
>Track her down so maybe Maria can find her soon.

>>4271495
>>Track her down so maybe Maria can find her soon.
why is this answer in 3rd person?

>>4271503
Normally they are.

>>4271495
>Let this go for the moment
We're in the midst of other matters; we really don't have the time to drop everything and go hunting for our maid while injured.

>>4271495
>>Let this go for the moment
Nah we've got other time limited quests going on. If she doesn't turn up after a few days then we go looking (or at least after we've finished assembling our quest party)

>>4271495
changing vote to >Let this go for the moment

>>4271495
>Let this go for the moment
Gotta get those conversation gains

>>4271495
She's kinda screwed due to timing.
I say we find out what the problem is since that's something enemies can use to blackmail her ,and/or get some correspondence going to cover her ass from what just happened.
>>4271495
>Send her a letter detailing the event she just missed and say to meet with us at the church we're going to if possible so that it can be said you were out on an errand. Otherwise send mail to there so that we can officially give her extended leave to sort out family matters. nothing too long since IDK if it's our dominant arm/hand that is having problems or not.

For now atleast Maria will let it go. Unlike many of the Nobles around this Academy, Maria was actually able to take good care of her self. Yeah she might not be able to put on the fanciest of dresses, but honestly she did not want to waste all the money on them.

Though if she is not back before Maria plans to leave, there will likely be problems.

With that done, night turned into day about twice making it four days since Maria’s injury. Her body had obviously grown quite the vicious bruise, but without any of her injuries breaching the surface she was at minimal risk for infections. At least that much Maria could be thankful for, since she was pretty sure death by infection was quite the real possibility.

Soon she arrived at a pair of doors, quickly she opened them to reveal a slightly familiar room. Sitting on some couches were her brother, Bon, as well as Ford seemingly talking about something. To the very back of the room was devoted to the desk of First Prince Lucien.

“Oh, Maria, I didn’t expect you to come over.” Bon quickly called out from his couch.

“I can’t come over and see my brother when I want?”

“Of course you can, I mean unless Ford or Lucien has a problem with it.”

Ford looked up with a tired if bothered look, “Due to the circumstances, I have no problem.”

She received no attention from Prince Lucien, the Corpse looking over his paperwork.

“Well,” Feeling the lul in conversation take a hit she started once again, “How are things coming along? Will we be able to leave sometime soon?”

“Looks pretty much like it.” Bon began with a grin, “We’ll be leaving by Friday just as expected.”

“Perfect,” Maria answered with a smile, “Oh, and I have a friend coming over as well. He has been working with the Church, so he would likely benefit from visiting the Shrine with us.”

“We have room for four, so we should be fine.” Ford answered with a clear claim.

“Perfect!” Maria’s eyes slowly drifted towards Lucien, who again has yet to look up from his papers.

>Ask the man outright
>Try and get something out of him
>Use Bon to get a reaction and coerce him.
>Other ideas on how to penetrate this Kune

>>4272136
>Try and get something out of him

>>4272136
>Ask the man outright
Honestly I think if Maria frames the trip as being just to escort her he's gonna reject it straight away (doesn't care for her enough, and she's not innocent enough to make him care), so maybe she could point out that this trip could serve another purpose for him? He seems to appreciate being informed of his country's affairs, so maybe we can incorporate what Albert has discovered about church finances to sway him? Like saying that the church's lands aren't being used to their fullest, and maybe this visit can be used to find out how? (I really wanna get himm to meet up with Albert at some point, because if anyone can convice the pope to get the church to accept knew technology its gonna be the crown prince.) Only problem with this is Maria is shit at economics, but maybe she can use her intrigue skills to hint to him that it might be a very good idea for the prince to meet her friend that's coming along?

(also did we ever read that book to get the conversation boost QM?)

>>4272247
You have, it was 10 Points. Is that enough for the Prince, you won't know yet.

>>4272136
>Try and get something out of him

>>4272247
support

“Hmm, well since we have extra room.” Maria grew a sly smile about herself, “How about it Prince Lucien, would you want to come with us?”

The man who was writing papers stopped before looking up, a small brow raised. The Corpse of a man seemed to have given me his attention, but his face did not seemed to change in the slightest.

However it was Ford who spoke first, “I will not bring my liege on a burdensome journey that I caused.”

Maria held back the clicking of her tongue, “I don’t plan to only visit the Shrine. I wish to meet with the local Bishop as well, as that is the reason that I am bringing Albert.”

The Man’s eyes furrowed, “Still, I do not seem to have any reason for him to join. If you are simply working with the Clergy, then it is no matter for him.”

Maria’s eyes quickly shifted to Lucien, who seemed to still be drab as ever. Though he still faced the two of them, listening to the conversation intently. It seemed that he was just letting Ford screen her, not really wanting to very much involve himself directly with her.

Maybe its because he thinks talking directly to her can ensnare him.

Well, he might not be wrong.

So Maria took a moment to collect her thoughts before talking once again.

[Conversation Check…]

[... Success]

“It would not be good to ignore your people, especially when a foreign actor is working with them.” Maria quickly turned towards Lucien with a scold, “These are your people, Lucien, and now is the chance for you to not only meet them but make them indebted to you. So why not come, you have everything to gain and nothing to lose.”

The expression on his face was something she never saw on the Prince’s face, not even in the game. Always was he cool and collected, either being a corpse or the most sane man in the room. Now, well he looked surprised.

“What, are you so stunned from me talking to you like that?” Maria could not help but laugh, “I can’t have you sitting around this office just to rot now can I?”

With her speal done Maria could see his shoulder slug, “I will go then.”

“Lucien-!”

The voice was stern, one that should belong to a ruler, “Ford, I have never truly met with the Clergy nor have I gone on a Pilgrimage. I shall do so this coming Friday.”

“...” The man who likely saw himself as Lucien’s guard faltered, “Fine, I will however arrange a better detail and retainers of you are coming.”

“Do so.” And with that, he returned to his papers.

Maria slowly turned around to see her brother with the widest smile upon his face. Maria would as well if not for all her training, because she finally got the Dead Prince to speak more than one sentence.

Alright, unless you guys wanted to have anything prepared for the Pilgramage I will leave it here. Thank you all for coming!

>>4272247
And thank this fellow for making a fabulous scheme. Honestly I was still debating on whether to have you fail, but this quite literally made it for you.

>>4273031
Thanks for running QM! I can't believe Maria stunned the kuudere. I know Lucien route is most likely hardmode for our girl but damn does that want to make me capture him even more - her finally wooing him and *then* Solomon charging in to make good on the deal to make Maria his bride is a peak drama scene.

Honestly the only active plot point left is what the hell happened to Melody, but that can be cut if it drags the plot. Otherwise it would be nice to have a chance to up our convo, intrigue and maybe faith at some point since Maria seems to have gotten a taste for politicking and needs the stats to match.

If anyone can, please Archive this. As I have said before, I don't trust myself making good descriptions.

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>>4275597