A small knocking could be heard from the door as Maria finally finished getting her things together. Next to her was a small suitcase filled with the essentials such as simple clothing and the like. Really, the reasons he was not packing up dresses and the like was because they were impractical for travel. For all she knew, they would be attacked by Bandits and she would lose everything in her possession.

Well that and she did not have her maid.

“You may come in.” She called out to the door, “To who do I owe the pleasure anyways?”

“That would be Bon, Maria.” Her brother announced with a dumb smile, “You’ve been pretty happy lately, is it because you go the Prince to join us?”

“You can read me like a book, eh Brother?”

“More like any Noble, Lady or not, would be happy at the chance.”

“And what about you anyways?” She asked while signaling him to pick up her suitcase, “You can see him every day, does that mean you’ve just been dulled to his excellence?”

“You call Lucien perfect?” Bon himself asked while picking up her clothing and the like.

“Not at all, he is extremely diligent, drab and emotionless. Much more comparable to a Corpse than a man.”

“Pff, thats a description.” Bon laughed while going down the hallway, “So why are you so adamant about him going?”

“Maybe I just don’t wish to see him rot away into nothingness, being only a footnote in history.” Maria mussed before a frown soon appeared, “At first I was interested in his power, but the simple state he is in is too damning to leave alone.”

“You’ve gotten quite demeaning from being in the Miaphate, havn’t you.” Maria looked to see her brother grow a frown.

“Bon, I have killed two Demi-Gods. Whenever they desired it, your attention would be theirs to play with. The Holy Austin Empire needs something more than a corpse on string against a person with clear divine right.”

“You havn’t met the Emperor have you?” Her brother asked with a change of subject.

“If I get the chance.”

With their talk done, they arrived in the courtyard where a small detail of guards and two carriages were. Out front was Ford, calling out shots to all the men around him. He quickly made his way up to Maria and Bon with a scow.

“Bon, I want you to sit with Lucien in the front carriage. Maria, your friend is sitting in the back carriage. Once your luggage is done being loaded, we will be off.”

>Abide by his rule, just for now
>Ask to instead sit with Lucien
>Try and merge all the carriages together.
>Other schemes?

>>4275599
>Try and merge all the carriages together.
Or at the very least get Albert and Lucien in the same carriage.

Look the best time for Albert to tell his ideas about the church accepting new technology to Lucien is when the prince is a captive audience in the carriage, when they're at the destination everyone will have their own duties to attend to.

Ford is probably bringing two carriages so that if the party is attacked then the one with the prince can split off and get away easier, but maybe Maria can use her military skills to argue its better to take one, heavily defended carriage instead?

Also try to get Maria to make Bon pull the 'I can't be seperated from my precious injuried sister' card to encourage shuffling around of the arrangements - or if Ford insists on taking two carriages use that card to have Maria and Bon ride together while Lucien and Albert take the other carriage.

>>4275599
>>Ask to instead sit with Lucien

>>4275599
>>Abide by his rule, just for now

>>4275599
>Abide by his rule, just for now
OP you forgot to boost our conversation that we got from the book

>>4275684
Huh, weird. I swear I changed that.

Maria looked him down for the moment, wondering just what the man was thinking. Yes he mentioned it earlier, but she didn’t think he was going to go through with it. Then again based on how blunt Ford always is she should not have expected anything less from the man.

Either way, “Alright, I can accept this for now.”

With that Maria walked away from the men, slowly loading herself onto the carriage. Albert who was in there did not say a word until she was properly seated and the door was closed.

“Uh, hello once again Miss Maria.” He said with a confused smile, “It seems we will be cabin mates for atleast today.”

“Yeah, that seems to be the case.” Maria answered before shaking her head, “Sorry about that, how have you been Albert?”

“Well, I got all my papers loaded without issue along with my luggage. I will admit though, I’m a little sad I was not able to see the Prince yet.”

“Give it a little time, I will make sure you two atleast meet one another.” Maria claimed with a stern authority.

With that the carriages started to move, the guards around their carriages taking quite focused positions. Honestly for Maria she would have been embarrassed if the man wasn’t competent enough to arrange a guard detail.

In any case, soon they left the Academy along with the hills and small mountains that guarded it. The Shrine of Hospit were located a ways to the north, where the fields would be covered in snow by the Winter time. In her time on this world, she honestly did not see any snow.

Of course that's what she gets for being in a desert most of the time, followed by a partially mediterrarian climate after.

The noise coming from the Carriage the two were in also grew quite, and while Maria can enjoy the scenery she quickly regretted not having any phones to keep her mind busy. In the end, there was only her fellow cabin member to figure things out with.

>Discuss the inheritance system for the Holy Austin Emperor
>Ask about the powerful Dukes and Viscounts
>Learn more about Albert’s home
>Other things you guys wanna know.

>>4276286
>Learn more about Albert’s home

>>4276286
>>Ask about the powerful Dukes and Viscounts
>>Learn more about Albert’s home

>>4276438
+1

>>4276438
Support

The Mountains and Hills that were protecting the Academy soon gave way to plains and low hills. These lands were quite sprawling, each and every one of them covered in wheat that was almost ready for harvest. Serfs who worked under their Lord would toil in the fields while their Lord prepare defences against any opportunistic invasions.

Inside their own cart, Maria mulled over the awkwardness of the carriage, a sigh escaping her mouth.

“Hmm, did you say something?” Albert quickly caught her, his eyes easily telling her he himself was looking for achievement against the boredom.

“No, that was nothing” Maria answered before shaking her head, “Actually, can you tell me about these lands? Who keeps a heavy hand among it all?”

“That? Well there are plenty of folk who run the Empire themselves.” Albert began to speak with a slightly relieved sigh, “However from my experience there are mainly five names that really matter.”

Quickly the man took out a piece of paper and began to draw upon it the names, “There is the Duke of Sistrine, Duke of Bellyoy, Duke of the Ire, Duke of Vesk, and lastly the Emperor’s second title Duke of Belgrade.”

Maria looked over the names, and quickly she noticed two of them. These were the territory Erica claimed to have been from, while the other was Elizabeth’s last name. To think she got so close with the highest of elites. Truely, she must be quite the person to garner their attention.

“Interesting, very interesting.” Maria responded while taking the paper for herself, “But what about the Merchant Republic? Surely your people should be included among them.”

“Oh mine? Hehe.” He scratched his head timidly with a thin smile, “Yeah the Vacient Republic might be counted among them. Though honestly it's been more of the Doge paying off any who opposes us.”

“You have that much money?”

“Well, maybe.”

Maria could not help but laugh at his embarrassment. THey continued to talk a little more as the journey was finally coming to a stopping point.

The place they came into was looking quite quant. Maria was able to look over the plans before hand, so she knew this was the City of Helum. It was not known for anything special, but thanks to new by fields filled with wheat made the place quite wealthy.

They were here to rest, but surely there were other things to do as well.

>Explore the town just for the hell of it.
>Convince Lucien to pay a visit to the local Mayor
>Visit the Local Trade Guild
>Just rest in the Inn
>Other

>>4277109
>Just rest in the Inn

>>4277109
>>Just rest in the Inn

>>4277109
>Just rest in the Inn

The warm fire coming from the center hall seemed to help melt all the ache that rested in Maria’s joints. Sadly it never truly got rid of the pain that she felt, but Maria was not going to complain much from that. Even a little bit of alleviation was plenty for the girl who injured herself in battle.

“There you are Maria.” The words of a stern man announced behind her, “Your language has been moved to your room, which will be two doors down on the left.”

“Thank you Ford,” Maria turned around to face the man, “If it was not for this injury, I would have surely done it myself.”

“I should expect nothing less of you.”

Maria gave the man a dep frown, “That is not something you should mention to a girl, especially a Noble one. We are delicate creatures Ford, so be sure to take care of us well.”

“You are the person who matched me in combat,” Ford answered with an unamused stare.

“Oh, are you claiming that I am not a woman but a barbarian man?” Maria grew a cynical smile while making a motion to her chest, “Why if it weren’t for these I would easily pass as a man.”

Just as she had expected, the boy quickly blushed with narrowing eyes. However he did not make any motions against her or speak in any way after that.

“Huh, not used to girls are you, Ford.”

“You are correct, though I honestly be hard pressed to call you one.”

“Pff, I guess I am a little bit more exotic than normal women.” Maria mused before shaking her head, “My we have gotten far off track, if everyone’s things are away then I can I ask where Lucien and my Brother will be staying tonight?”

“Lucien has the back most room in the hallway, while your brother is two doors down.”

[Military Test Success]

“I see you have already planned for there to be guard detail there. Are you afraid someone will come and kill him?”

“...”

Maria could not help but rest her chin upon her single hand with a smile, “It seems I am right, though I swear I would not kill the prince in his sleep. Why that would be the worst idea to ever have crossed my mind.”

“So you say.” Ford finished with that, sounding skeptical in his words.

>Try and get why he is so hostile these days
>Switch back to messing with him
>Leave to go talk to someone else *Who*
>Simply enjoy the fire

>>4278028
>“Your language has been moved to your room, which will be two doors down on the left.”
Gotta remember to pick it up to speak to the locals
>Try and get why he is so hostile these days

>>4278028
>>Try and get why he is so hostile these days

>>4278028
>Try and get why he is so hostile these days

“You know, Ford, have you been doing alright?” Maria asked with a worried stare, “You’ve been doing all this work you must be starting to get exhausted.”

“I am doing just fine, Maria. You do not need to worry about me as this will be my duty for the rest of my days.” Ford answered with a much harsher tone.

“I am hard pressed that you need to watch the Prince at all times of the day.”

“I-”

“And wouldn’t he want to make sure you are not injured yourself?” Maria gave a soft sigh before motioning to the chair next to her, “Come on, sit down and let your troubles melt away with the fire.”

[Conversation: Partial Success] [Intrigue: Success]

“... Fine” with a great throw of his weight, the boy sat himself next to Maria with a stubborn expression about himself, “I will only be here for a moment though.”

“Why in such a rush, surely I am not the bane of your existence.”

“I feel like you are.” His brows furrowed into an icy stare.

Maria only shook her head before looking at him straight, “Alright then, what is it you don’t like about me?”

“Eh?” Quickly did Ford become dumbfounded at Maria’s words.

“Oh come on, you said I am not one of those fragile ladies, so why not tell it to me straight.” Maria said with a mocking smile.

“Tsk, you want to know,” The man’s eyes quickly became that of annoyed anger as he began to rise, “You fucking brought the Prince on the trip with us!”

[Conversation Failed] [Royal Demeanor Success]

“This was supposed to be a form of reimbursement from me to you!” Ford yelled with a full fury, “Instead of it being that of a Knight’s job, you turned it into an entourage and tricked Lucien into coming because of something we did! You are a vile snake that when given the chance tries her best to ensnare the Prince!”

Maria… was not expecting this at all. However, she resisted the temptation to fire back an insult when he himself is firing them. A vile snake though, honestly Maria could not fire back at something so accurate.

Because she did not fire back an insult, Maria quickly saw Ford simply growl before slouching his back. It was to their luck that no one else was in the room, or both of them would have likely been in trouble.

>Simply give him the Apology, as the damage has already been done.
>Leave the room to let him vent his anger
>Do fire back with insults, because fuck it
>Other, but I am sure you guys can make a write in for this one really easily.

Oh, I got another option
>Relish in the Description, as Maria truly is a snake. No, a Villaness!

>>4278569
>Other
"After spilling all of these demeaning thoughts from your head, I take you're starting to relax some, no ? since you're protecting the prince, I know well enough that you must take everyone who tries to approach him with a grain of salt, but acted like the prince is a child that will do anything without a thought. That angers me way more than your slender"
btw are you doing our conversation checks with the fixed number or you're still using the 50 ?

>>4278599
Fixed, thats why its was partial. talking to the Capture targets will always be tough

>>4278569
>>Relish in the Description, as Maria truly is a snake. No, a Villaness!

>>4278599
Supporting

>>4278599
*but you acted like the prince

>>4278569
>"Ford are you really trying to guilt me over partaking in politics?"

>>4278599
This. Listen its all about the politics wooing Lucien is just a nice reward on the side

Maybe also add that Lucien does need to get out of the office and start acting as a strong, competent ruler than has the hearts and minds of the people pretty damn soon, because if any Miaph can launch a successful offensive against the country then its going to be Soloman - Maria knows this first hand. Heck Soloman is probably the Miaph most blessed by the gods since he managed to not only survive Maria, the Kingslayer but also used her to get the throne. The country needs every advantage it can get.

>>4278569
My, my. Someone's feeling jealous.

>>4278599
I believe you mean slander, not slender. Otherwise, it seems like a reasonably appropriate response.

However after a few moments of thought Maria could not hold her own opinion on the matter, “Are you done spilling all of these demeaning thoughts from your head? Take a moment to relax and listen, you cannot protect the Prince from everyone who approaches him. He’s not a child anymore, so babying him more is something that angers me more than anything else.”

“Is that so? Maybe because I need to protect the man from people like you.” The man growled like that of a bear.

Maria leaned back for a moment and gave a heavy sigh, “Look, he needs to get out of the office more than anything else. The man was quite literally a corpse the moment I walked into his presence, a far cry from the Royalty of the Miaphate. If he takes over the way he is, he will surely fall to their crusade.”

[Conversation Partial Success]

“I do not even understand why I listen to you.” The man claimed while turning about, “It is simply people like you who I protect him from.”

And with that he turned about and left the room, Maria more or less feeling a cold wave wash over her. That conversation surely was not a good one, but at least he did not order her to be abandoned. Surely she has gotten into him somehow, though it was probably not the way she really wanted to.

On top of that, Maria felt she missed the true reason for his anger. Hopefully in time she will find it as to not make him a permanent enemy.

Looking at the fire Maria noticed that it was slowly dying out, meaning it was nearing time for her to go to bed. Second door on the left, if she remembered correctly.

>Try once again to get a ride with the Prince.
>Take the time to compose a letter to Maria’s Father
>Study the local folk and their practices.
>Talk to Bon on the ride over.
>Other ideas?

>>4279243
>Talk to Bon on the ride over.

>>4279243
>Study the local folk and their practices.

>>4279243
>Study the local folk and their practices
Can we grind up conversation some more if we phrase it as learning how to interact with commoners.

Also if this was tokimeki memorial Ford would be bombing us hard right now

>>4279476
I see it more as coming back to the roots with being a sneaky little bugger.

Being able to blend in with the commoners can only help us.

Soon enough Maria was on the ride towards the Shrine once again. While she was in the same carriage as Albert, their entertainment was found elsewhere today.

Maria’s eyes lingered over towards the fields filled with men and women toiling their lives about. It did not take her long to notice just how many were still working the fields in this era, as she could have sworn there was a different peasant for every acre of land they passed.

However what quickly struck her was the sight of several different kinds of crops, each of which seemingly near their final growth. Though after a quick thought she noticed something, that back in MaKain this kind of variety was not so easily found.

“Hmm, has something caught your eye Miss Maria?”

“Yeah, why are there so many different crops?”

“That would be because of the need to Rotate Crops.” Albert answered as if it was common knowledge, “You can’t grow the same thing twice, and everyone can’t grow the same thing twice too.”

Maria chewed on his words for a moment, “That’s… quite advance for a peasant.”

“Indeed it is, though most would not have done it if not for the numerous Merchants talking of it.” He claimed with a small laugh.

“Oh, do I sense a little bit of pride in your words Albert? Maybe I should cut it down like a normal Noble should.” Maria joked with a swift slice of her finger.

“Please don’t joke about those things” He said with a shaking of his head, “You do not know how many Merchants have died just because they thought a Merchant was mocking them.”

“Sorry about that.” Maria lounged back once again with a thin smile, “Though I take it this technology is what you were talking about?”


“Indeed. Simply put the Church could implement it much easier than other institutions I know of.”

“Hmm, well I might need to get a slice of this technique and other technologies soon.” Maria answered with a longing look over the fields once more.

[Economics Increased]

With that the day went by, soon they arrived in a town for the night. Maria herself not very exhausted since the journey was nothing too torturous.

>Talk to some of the locals
>Speak with Bon
>Try and speak with the Prince
>Other

>>4280097
>Talk to some of the locals

>>4280097
>Talk to some of the locals

>>4280097
>Talk to some of the locals

>>4278912
The most frightening aspect about Solomon is how insanely ballsy he is. He made a deal with the Kingslayer who could very well target him too. Compensated the deaths in her family with two of his own Miaphs so they're even and convinced her to help him win the throne. All the while desiring to marry the one person whom his own gods hate more than anyone else. As much as I want to say the other capture targets is good...they simply can't compete with Solomon's ability so far and we already agreed to marry him should he prove himself. The man is beyond ballsy with him teaming up with the kingslayer who slew two of his own Miaphs, whose hated by his own gods, AND desiring to marry the said person who could very easily kill him too.

Maria is the only one who knows how exactly dangerous he truly is. Unfortunately for her though the royals and their loyalists despise her. While she already made an agreement with Solomon in terms of giving her hand to him(the sheer fucking balls on that guy holy shit). I'll admit I gotta hand it to the QM for such a great character whose not even an official capture target originally in the game. I just wish he didn't overshadow the others so badly and there aren't more of them.

>>4280097
>Talk to some of the locals

This time the convoy was able to arrive in a modest city called Hostil. From what Maria understood, the place was formed after a series of Pilgrims suffering from life long diseases decided to keep close to the shrine. In time the place, no lesser than a Leper Colony beforehand, was built into a city where for Pilgrims and the sickly can stay without problem.

Such a case however seemed to have rubbed Maria in a weird way as she went to the Inn’s Dining Hall. Currently the guards were putting things into the rooms, and honestly Maria thought it was best for Ford not to see her just yet. Though of course that meant not seeing her Brother, but she would simply need to withstand the tide that was Ford’s anger.

Walking in, everyone about the place seemed to be just a little off. In a moment their eyes turned towards her, as if expecting her to be a snake that was going to eat them. However, she was not in fact a real snake, so they all resumed their dealings.

“Alright?” Maria said to herself before taking a seat. Her eyes searched over the staff, all of whom seemed to be just the tiniest bit twitchy from her view. However, she still needed one of them so she called out to the youngest looking girl, “You there, can I get an order?”

[Royal Demeanor Success]

“Wah! Y-yes I am coming!” The girl almost jumped out of her skiing upon seeing Maria while the soft pitter patter of feet rang in the room, “Sorry for that, uh, may I take your order?”

“A bowl of stew would be fine with maybe an ale if you have it, though why are you so jumpy?”

“Hmm? Me, well uh, sorry about that.”

“It’s fine, it's fine.” Maria reassured the girl while leaning on her good arm, “I was just a little worried since everyone else here is acting about the same.”

[Conversation Success]

“Y-yeah, well we got word that the Bishop recently went missing. Everyone has been looking for him, but no one’s found him.”

[Religion Failure] [Intrigue Success]

Maria could not help but make a frown, “Well that seems a little odd, why would that be a problem? Are you all afraid he died?”

[Royal Demeanor Success]

“I-its might be a little worse, uh, everyones scared about the city no longer getting its blessings. God might have forsaken us, you see.” The girl’s eyes widened a little, “Oh sorry, I said something I should not have.”

“Its alright, what was your name?”

“Uh, Ryth.”

“Well thank you Ryth, now go get my food. I am quite hungry.”

“Y-Yes!” and like that the girl ran off.

>Try and find more about this Priest who went missing *How?*
>Inform the others
>Simply enjoy the food
>Other

Sorry for the delay, Dark Souls is addicting!

>>4280792
>Try and find more about this Priest who went missing *How?*
Try talking to deacons or nuns that worked with him
>>4280794
No problem

btw is religion = faith ?

>>4280811
Yeah, I messed that up.

>>4280792
>>Try and find more about this Priest who went missing *How?*
Talking with everyone who worked with him or was involved in his day to day life like servants.
That should hopefully give us a lead.

>>4280792

>>4280943
>>4280809
These two are good.

Also
>>Inform the others
Maybe also let the guys know where we'll be for the rest of the day, just so the others (AKA Bon) won't freak out? Might be useful to bring Albert along too - his presence there can be our cover story, we can poke around while he's getting records from the church.

Night turned into morning as Maria readied up her things, heading out the door for the expected pilgrimage of the Bishopric a few miles away. However, it was to her surprise that only after a few steps she came across her brother who bore a frown.

“Hey Maria, did you sleep well?”

“I did, has something by chance happened?”

Her brother gave a solemn nod, “Indeed, it seems that the shrine has been closed down due to some troubles they were having. At least, that is what the deacon said when he came to visit us this morning.”

“Then the rumor was true…” Maria shook her head in solemn, “It seems the Bishop has gone missing recently. In that case, I will still be heading to the Monastery today then.”

“Are you sure Maria? I mean, if the Bishop was kidnapped sure you would be at risk as well.” Bon pleaded with a furrowed brow.

“I am, and I plan on taking Albert with me. How about you see if Ford can spare some guards as well.”

“... Alright, I will see what I can do then.”

And like that they were off. In the end Maria was only spared a pair of guards, which was kind of expected simply because Ford had fortified the hell out of the inn within a night. For whatever reason, the man was not in a hurry to leave, which honestly caused Maria to scratch her head.

It did not take long of them to cover the few miles to the Monastery. The place looked to have been well kept and quite luckily not raided by some scoundrels in the times since the Bishop died. Soon Maria and Albert, who were traveling in their carriage together, arrived at the front gate.

Infront of said gate were a pair of knights, each of which bearing the marks of God’s chosen. They had deviated from their post, starting a small talk with the carriage driver and her guards. Since Maria did not have much else to do, she stuck her head out of a window.

“Excuse me, can I ask why you have stopped us?”

“Are you the Noble of this carriage?” the masked man asked, “I am sorry to say, but we are not welcoming any Pilgrims today as the Bishop is currently not here.”

“I heard about that, so I thought I could help.” Maria answered with a confident call, “I am Maria Louisa Regnia, a devout supporter of the Church, ally to the Tectonic Knights, and Slayer of Miaphs.”

[Royal Demeanor Success]

“Oh! My apologies Kingslayer! I heard you were at the Academy but I never expected you to come here!”

“Its alright, I came because of an injury. Though finding the Bishop now takes precedent.”

“I understand! Please come on in!”

>Ask this guard if he knows anything about the Bishop’s Disappearance
>Go to the Nunnery
>Talk to the Deacon, who should be next in line.

>>4281178
>Talk to the Deacon, who should be next in line.

>>4281178
>Ask this guard if he knows anything about the Bishop’s Disappearance
Anyone suspicious going in and out of the gates

>>4281178
>Ask this guard if he knows anything about the Bishop’s Disappearance

The bishop has either left or he's still somewhere around. And if the guard was distracted then the distraction also will be something that could give us a hint.

>>4281178
>Ask this guard if he knows anything about the Bishop’s Disappearance

“Well, actually before you let me go can you help me with some questions?” Maria called out to him before he could turn his back.

“Yes I can Kingslayer, I will answer all that you may ask.”

“Thank you,” Maria said with a thin smile, “Was there anyone suspicious around the gate by chance? Anyone trying to get in who should not.”

The man gave a slight shake of his head, “Sadly I cannot right now, no one has been stalking the walls or gates from what I have seen.”

“Really, so you are sure nothing out of the ordinary seems to have been happening? When exactly did he disappear?”

“Well that would have been when he left the Monastery on church business,” Quickly the guard seemed to think, “You know, I myself have never had a problem, but I would urge you to go talk to the Nuns within. If memory serves me right, they have not been the most sound of heart in the recent days when coming back form the city.”

“Thank you very much.” And with those words the carriage began to draw itself into the castle.

“This is coming out to be an interesting affair, Miss Maria.” Albert said with a shaky smile about himself.

“Indeed it is.”

“Uh, though I know it is a little wrong maybe we can go to the Deacon first and ask that he lets us enter the Bishop’s office and his own.”

“Hmm, why would you think that?”

“Well, you see if we go to the Nuns first, and the Deacon is an accomplice, than he might ruins evidence against our cause.”

>Go visit the Nuns first
>Ask the Deacon to show his documents
>Stop here and start snooping around without anyone knowing, or atleast trying to.
>Go visit the Saint’s Shrine first to get one’s self healed.

>>4281804
>Ask the Deacon to show his documents
Than we go get heal

>>4281804
>Ask the Deacon to show his documents
Hmmm I thought it would be the other way around - ask the nuns first so that the deacon can't tell them to shut their mouths.

Also I was re-reading the first quest sections and was shocked that Albert's supposed to be the game's strong, silent, analytical type?? He's coming across as much more of a cute megane / shy guy - Maria must have broken though a lot of his barriers coming to his aid huh.

>>4281804
>Ask the Deacon to show his documents

“I like that idea.” Maria shined him a smile before stepping out onto the ground below, “Then I assume we head to the main chamber first?”

“I believe so.” Albert finished before stepping out of the carriage himself.

So they went towards the large pair of doors that stood prominently infront of the monastery. It did not take a genius to figure out that this was the way inside, so they simply entered without much more of a huff.

Walking into the place, Maria was quick to realize the place looked to be quite well built. For the most part the place looked to have been built with a desire to keep things open, large windows welcoming light into the chamber of worship. Though Maria quickly noticed the lack of stained glass windows, instead simple makings of clear and slightly yellow welcomed them.

At the end of the room however was a man kneeling before an altar, the smell of incense coasting Maria’s nose. In almost an instant the man turned, as if the fear of the devil possessed him.

“Wh-whos there! You are trespassing!” What Maria realised was a middle aged man shakily got up, pointing the pot which burnt incense in their direction.

“I am Maria Louisa Regnia, ally to the Tectonic Knights and Kingslayer. I am here because the Bishop has gone missing.” Maria answered with a stern declaration.

“O-Oh thank the Lord!” The man almost dropped to his knees.

Albert took a few steps forward in caution, “Uh, are you doing alright?”

“N-now I am, thank you very much.” quickly he rose once again, “It’s just these last few days have been quite worrying. I fear the worst has yet to come as well.”

“Stop talking like a mad man! Are you not a Deacon of the Holy Church!” Maria growled to the man, causing his entire back to stiffen and his eyes to sharpen.

“S-Sorry about that Kingslayer! I am just worried about the future of our Monastery!”

Maria could not help but raise her brow to that, “Why would you be so worried? Surely as someone who works with the Church deeply, I would be privileged to know.”

[Conversation Success]

“...” His eyes switched from side to side before going around Albert to speak closely with Maria, “S-Some of the Bones of Saint Hospit are missing.”

[Faith Failure]

Maria could not recall why that was a problem, but she herself wondered if she could risk the minor embarrassment in finding out.

>Ask him what in the world that means
>Simply ask to explore the Bishop’s study
>Ask to be healed of injuries before anything else.

>>4282335
>Ask to be healed of injuries before anything else.
Let’s be prepared for what’s to come

>>4282335
>Ask to be healed of injuries before anything else.

>>4282335
>Simply ask to explore the Bishop’s study
Yeah hospit sounds too much like hospital to me, betting these missing bones are what we've actually supposed to be praying to for the healing. Also everyone seems too on edge to be putting on a holy ritual anyway.

>>4282335
>Simply ask to explore the Bishop’s study
They’re not in any condition to be doing services right now.

“Hmm, well I do have a request if you are able.” Maria gave a motion to the sling on her arm, “I suffered an injury a week ago, so I was wondering if we could have it cured before we continue this investigation at full strength.”

As she finished saying that, the man’s eyes quickly looked down in a bit of shame, “Uh, we are unable to do that right now. Uh, ever since the Bishop’s disappearance I have not sensed any divinity from the Saint’s remains.”

Maria’s eyes slowly opened widely at his words, “So you are saying that because the Bishop is missing, that you are unable to perform any miracles?”

The man hesitantly nodded in response, though Maria felt a little bad that she should have figured that dibit out. Bitting a little on her lip she moved onto the second idea, “Take me to the man’s study, he might have had something about where he disappeared to.”

“A-alright, follow me!” and with those words they ran down the halls. Maria found in their little travel about the place that everything seemed to be quite well cared for as before, though she noticed now were the people actually doing the work.

From one end to another, Nuns and Deacons were working tirelessly to tidy it up better. Some would stop in the middle of their actions just to give small prayers to the Saints depicted about the place. All in all, everyone was in a religious frenzy of pentace from what Maria could tell.

Soon they arrived at a large wooden door, the man hastily opening the door, “This would be the quarters of Father. Please look around, if there is anything that could by chance lead us to his location I will sing to the heavens myself!”

Well, Maria was starting to feel a little pressure from the task now. Looking over towards Albert, he too was looking quite outside of his own comfort zone.

Either way, Maria’s eyes quickly took in the room for herself. It looked to have been made of stone, with small amounts of furnishings about the place. In the middle sat a wooden desk of no particular furnishings, along with a book shelf and paintings lining the walls.

All in all, a nice place to work for sure.

>Talk to the Deacon while Albert looks over the desk.
>Search around for anything hidden, such as behind paintings and the like
>Maria will take on the desk herself, as it is better to do the work by one’s self!

>>4282856
>Talk to the Deacon while Albert looks over the desk.
With Maria's terrible economics stats it's best to have the financial guru look over the paperwork.

Let's put Maria's conversation and intrigue stats to use to see if he gives us anything interesting.

If we wanna look for hidden compartments we gotta get the deacon out of the room first - can't trust anyone.

>>4282856
>Talk to the Deacon while Albert looks over the desk.

>>4282856
>Talk to the Deacon while Albert looks over the desk.

>>4282856
>Search around for anything hidden, such as behind paintings and the like

>>4282856
>Search around for anything hidden, such as behind paintings and the like

“Albert, can you look over everything?” Maria turned to her companion.

“I think so, just give me a few minutes and we will see.” He answered while giving his head a slight scratch.

“Thank you very much, I would as well, but I think you are better for the job.”

“Uh, yeah!” And with that he went straight to work taking up papers that were laying out about the room.

With a smile upon her face Maria turned about to face the Deacon, “Could you answer some questions I have?”

“I certainly can try.” He answered with a slight if shaky smile.

“Thank you, could you tell me about the Bishop? Did he have any additional duties or hobbies that he participated in?”

The man gave a slight nod, “Yes, Father Maxim also held the title of the Court Priest for the Count Dorcy, the Local Count as you can guess. Besides that… well he always had an interest in taking care of people for the most part, sometimes even trying to take the service home to them.”

Maria gave a slight nod, “So his removal of the Saint Hospit’s bones are not unusual?”

“Yeah, he did it back when Count Dorcy’s first born was terribly sick. After that, well he, uh, might have been taking them out a few too many times.” The Deacon admitted with a timid tint to his words.

“Has it only been for Nobility?”

“Well… not really. If it was anything, he took it out to Hospit’s Rest to cure those who cannot come to the Monastery themselves.”

Maria gave a sight nodding of the head, “So you are saying he was a man who cared for the people?”

“Certainly so, though that’s if they are not heretics.” The Deacon grew a calmed if unusual smile, “He was one hell of an Inquisitor you see.”

Before Maria could ask another question the voice of Albert came up, “Miss Maria, I think I found something. It looks like he was in the middle of an investigation.”

Maria looked over the Deacon, who simply shrugged before she walked over to see what in the name of God he was talking about. Before Albert looked to be a standard leather tome, though she quickly noticed how this tome was filled with large amounts of scribbles as well as looking slightly burnt in a few places.

With Maria next to him Albert began “So I read through this quickly, and it seems to be his work journal. I, uh, skipped to the last few pages and saw it was dated about a week ago.”

“Alright, what did it say?”

“A few names and them being written down as suspects. They were Baron Vosk, Spy Master Velinor, and Baron Clef.”

What did Maria get herself into this time.

>Ask Deacon about these names.
>Go ask the Nuns about the suspicious people
>Get the hell out of there, as this might be enough evidence to go forward.

>>4283448
>Ask Deacon about these names.

>>4283448
>Ask Deacon about these names.

>>4283448
>Ask Deacon about these names.
Then swing by and speak to the nuns before we leave and report back to the others

“Excuse me for a moment, Deacon, but could you tell us something about these names?” Maria asked while turning to the man.

“Those men? Uh, if I heard correctly they are quite upstanding citizens of the Realm. All swear fealty under the Count, just as we here in Hospit have.” He seemed to chew on the names for a moment more before giving his response, “I guess I would not be surprised Velinor was on the list, he was always a shifty fellow you see. Surely he served the Count faithfully, but for him to be on a list of suspected heretics…”

“What about the two Barons?” Maria egged the Deacon on with open ears.

“Well Baron Clef is a reclusive man, if not that he has way too many children. On the other hand Vosk is quite the man, able to grab the people’s attention with ease and quite the man. Well, its still a little weird to think about honesty.”

“A little weird, why would it be weird?”

“Well, if memory serves me right he was only an up and coming Noble, getting his title when his father died of Gout. Poor fellow did not even receive the healings of Saint Hospit and died in pain.” The Deacon shook his head once again, “He struggled for a little while but found his footing about three years ago. Rumor has it he is trying to pool in some funding for another Barony.”

[Intrigue Test Success] [Faith Test Failed]

Maria pondered it for a moment, but it seemed likely that the two events were connected. Maybe the man was trying to get the Saint’s remains as a priceless artifact, and the Bishop simply was carrying the goods. In any case, she could not go to the man right away if he is a possible kidnapper.

“By chance was he close to someone in town? Maybe one of the other lords favored him?” Maria asked fluent wave of her hand.

“Well, recently he got close to Baron Clef, so maybe that is why the man is on the list.” the Dean answered with a small frown.

>Any more questions you guys wanna ask *Write in*
>Go to the Maids
>Head to Baron Clef’s fortress
>Get some people to stalk Baron Vosk

>>4283573
>Get some people to stalk Baron Vosk

>>4283573
>Get some people to stalk Baron Vosk

>>4283573
>Get some people to stalk Baron Vosk
The baron seems to be quite suspicious.

>>4283573
>Get some people to stalk Baron Vosk

“Thank you very much Deacon, hopefully we can find the Bishop before something befalls him.” Maria claimed before making her way out, “Come Albert, we are in need of getting some people together.”

The boy raised a brow to Maria’s words, but didn’t say anything as they left the Monastery.

Maria schemed a small bit as she rode on the carriage, her mind figuring out who exactly she was going to use. In the end, she could make a decision between using some youngsters or some Bandits. Since the idea was that she would be stalking a man near a fort, well her decision was already made by then.

Her eyes shifted towards the guard who was standing at the Monastery’s gate, “Can you slow down for a moment couchman?”

“Hmm, Kinglsayer? Are you leaving?” The guard asked as Maria looked out of her window.

“Indeed I am, though I need to ask you something.” She grew a small cynical smile, “Are there places a madam like me should not ride?”

[Conversation Success]

“Uh, maybe not in the Alistar Hills. Uh, well I would say don’t go there but do you have something planned?”

“Fufu, we will see.” And with those words Maria went away. Looking over she could see the Albert was growing a little worried, but she paid him not much heed. She needed to get this done, and she was quite confident she could turn these hooligans to her side.

It was not long after they entered what looked to be desolate hills, her eyes searching them. The place was obviously not taken over by man, which gives a wonder on whether or not the bandits were the cause or simply being no desire to tame the forest.

[Military Success]

When they approached a good spot for an ambush Maira looked out of the window there were a few men, maybe ten in all, wielding swords among the bushes and bows in the trees. A smile that was developing on her face grew ten fold as she started opening the door.

It seems they were all waiting for a chance to attack, but what happens when they are found out much sooner?

“Stop the carriage.”

“Miss Maria, what are you doing!” Albert cried, however she was already outside of the carriage by the time he want to grab her.

“I know you are all there.” She announced with her eyes picking out every single one of their positions, “Fufu, you all can come out now. I might look noble, but you will not be making anything more than a ducet off my life if you ransomed me! Though I can provide you with much more.”

[Royal Demeanor Success.]

There was a sharp chattering among the trees and bushes, much to the surprise of the Guards. Soon enough though, a man looking quite roughed up emerged from the bushes with a confused look upon his face.

“I’m here to talk to ya, Noble Gal. You say you can be worth more den a ducet, so what are you going to give us?”

>Promise him gold
>Grant him a chance at redemption
>If he does well, then he will be given employment.

>>4284364
>If he does well, then he will be given employment.

>>4284364
>If he does well, then he will be given employment.
Spy network coming up

>>4284364
>If he does well, then he will be given employment.
Spys are always good to have.
I still think we should talk to the nuns at some point though.

>>4284364
>If he does well, then he will be given employment

“Why thats quite easy, I can simply employ you.” She almost laughed at the dumb look she quickly got, “Oh, do you not want to leave this rotten life you are in?”

“Pfff, do you think I can believe that lady? A Noble gal trying to employ a bunch of hooligans like us?” He almost smeared with those words.

“Have you ever heard of the Valrian Guard?”

The man quickly became confused while shaking his head, “What kind of witch craft are you talking about?”

“In the Miaphate, the Miaph himself employs thousands of Morse. Of course, these are the same men who are more than willing to burn, rape, and plunder the lands they are sworn to protect.” Maria began to get a small bit closer now, “Do you know what allows them to be sold, I found out? Do all of you want to be educated?”

[Royal Demeanor Success]

To her words, all around her quickly became stiffened. To her words they were enthralled like man when he first discovered fire.

She gave a short chuckle along with a wave of her hand, “Honor, Prestige, and Gold. These are the pillars in which a bunch of barbarians were tamed, and surely you would enjoy the same benefits as these men.”

“H-how can you be so sure.” The one before her squabled while drawing his weapon towards her, “You are just a Nobal Gal, like you have any power.”

“Fufu, do you know who exactly you are trying to kidnap, rape, and ransom?” Maria simply moved his weapon aside with her left hand with a wicked smile stretched from ear to ear, “I am Maria Louisa Ragnia, or better known to all as the Kingslayer. I have killed Emperors, and if my cards are played right I might even take over the Miaphate itself. If your cards are with me, you will never regret it for a moment.”

With her words spoken Maria inched away from the man and now spoke to the crowd, “All of you will be my Scouts and Spies, even if I need to train you up myself! Now come and present yourselves to your new liege!”

With those words the men all from the cover of woods and trees emerged, each looking like rugged bandits. Maria’s smile grew by ten when they kneeled to her, all gripped by her voice.

“Oh I wish there were more of you, but that will be in time. For now, there is a Baron who must be stalked for he is likely a heretic who has kidnapped a man of God. Find out his every movement, and if he has any other targets.”

“Yes!”

“Perfect”

Maria gave a laugh, one that every person in the area would remember. It was one of a Villaness, whose plans are coming to forwishen.

>Simply rest for the time until her men return
>Take some time to see if she can talk to Lucien
>Work on some homework *Skill Increase of what?*

>>4285256
>Work on some homework *Skill Increase of what?*
Let's bump our faith, we'll need it so we can get the basics of the church

>>4285256
>Work on some homework *Skill Increase of what?*
Faith

>>4285256
>Work on some homework *Skill Increase of what?*
Expression

>>4285270
This.

Faith and expression are both annoyingly important.

>>4285309
Tbf, we’ll need to min-max and focus on our good points to make them better by what we could see of the checks that happened, while also bumping some of the low things from time to time

>>4285256
>>Work on some homework *Skill Increase of what?*
faith

you never told us what the weapons skill does or the military skill does since both of them are dictated by dice

>>4285325
Feels like having very high skills isn't nearly as useful as having many skills at a decent amount. Feels like low skills keeping biting us on the ass far harder then the high skill levels benefit us.

>>4285325
The jack of all trades may be master of none, but he's quite often better than a master of one.

>>4285256
>Work on some homework *Skill Increase of what?*
Faith

Frankly we should actually get skills in both faith and magic. Faith binds us a lot to gods who we have a difficult relationship with. The Miaphate gods don't like us, but our god may not like our connection to the future emperor of the Miaphate.

But at the moment we really need faith more.

>>4285256
>Work on some homework *Skill Increase of what?*
>Conversation

Faith is important sure, but right now we should grind conversation to at least expert level before switching to levelling a new skill, since Maria is already getting partial successes in it.

if we get a 10+ boost convo boost we'll just be 5 points away (current convo stat is 60)

Soon they arrived back at the inn, the place still swarming with guards she they were dropped off. Really Maria would say that Ford was going to hard into protection, but she did not really mind that much as they were useful in keeping her safe at night.

For the most part Albert was dumbstruck since they left, neither himself nor the guards saying or commenting on what she did. Maybe it was a little much of a spectacle, but she honestly did not mind it since she was an expert at it.

So when she arrived, Maria went straight to her school work and started upon some research. She was sorely lacking when it came to the knowledge of religion, and by extension the Clerical magics employed by the Church. It was honestly a little bit embarrassing when she messed up within the Chapel.

So she hit the books, looking over them with an inquisitive eye. There was a slight explanation on how Miracles were performed, as they are a representation of God’s power on earth. Unlike on earth, it is agreed that he is not all mighty but tries his best to guide Humanity best he can, which ends up forming the Church and Fiefdoms seen today. Things like narrowly dodging an arrow or barely making the cut on projects are signs of his influence.

Miracles are larger performances of his power, each granted for what is sure to be a certain reason. These however require a Catalyst which can sometimes be a man, others a Holy Artifact. Men who can channel the Miracles of God are revered as Saints, and there have been many occasions where this occurred after Death. These however are almost always tied to their Remains, which can be their bones or completely intact bodies resting under Monasteries.

Maria’s eyes moved towards what can be Heresy. Of course it included other Gods of other religions, but there was also the idea of lesser Gods. These Gods were Demons, great in number and because they only make deals and have a focused power. To gain power, unlike Gods, Demons would try to steal it through the defamation of icons and their Servants to steal it directly from the source.

While Maria mulled over this for a moment a rhythmic knocking was heard from her door. Without much else to go on she beckoned the person inside, which to her surprise was a very familiar face.

“Ford? Why are you in here?” She asked the rather worn looking son of a Marshal at the door.

“I am here to tell you that we will be leaving for the Academy here tomorrow, as is our schedule.” He rehearsed as if it was a scripted statement.

“Leave? Well… I guess that makes sense, though was it not the Prince who wanted to stay here?”

“That might have been so, but I have come to an understanding that a Bishop in the local area was Kidnapped and has yet to be found. I worry that this will be a greater threat to his life than you can think.”

Maria chewed on his words, and it was pretty obvious that he was gearing up for a debate against her. However she had a few questions instead, “Are you not including me in the group of people fleeing?”

The man gave a shaking of the head, “I have asked your brother and he agreed that he is willing to stay to look after you. I plan to leave a carriage for you to leave once the Bishop is rescued to heal you.”

“How thoughtful…”

>Let them go, as it is right to let the Prince stay safe.
>Demand that they stay, for Maria is close to finding him anyways
>Ask that they get Lucien’s opinion directly, as Maria feels she can turn it to her favor.
>Force Ford to stay instead because of his obligation, while the others can go *Intrigue*

>>4285596
>Let them go, as it is right to let the Prince stay safe.

>>4285596
>Ask that they get Lucien’s opinion directly, as Maria feels she can turn it to her favor.

>>4285596
>Let them go, as it is right to let the Prince stay safe.
Making them stay would give us more leeway in prosecuting the baron, but in the end I trust in the church's authority and our fighting.

>>4285596
>Let them go, as it is right to let the Prince stay safe.

Now we and others will know Ford's honor and his word is only worth so much. This is a useful advantage to keep rather then forcing him to abide by it.

>>4285596
>Let them go, as it is right to let the Prince stay safe.

>>4285596
>Let them go, as it is right to let the Prince stay safe.

Could also hint that we now understand the strength of his own words.
That even with his honor, he'd not want us safe too in such a situation. A person who cared would request for us to leave also.

“Alright go then.” Maria answered with something akin to a sneer, “I cannot hold you here on words alone.”

The man shook his head as if looking at a child, “My duty to Lucien is greater than anything between us. Know that, Kingslayer.”

With him leaving the room Maria could feel a tight knot forming in her chest. In truth she was the one who twisted the man’s words against him, using Ford for her own gains. In doing so, she had created an enemy of him while gaining nothing in return by now.

She had the temptation to smash something, maybe destroy a book or the like. However she was trained to let those feelings settle and to compose herself as a possible Ruler.

A small cynical smile appeared upon her face, the thought of Ford becoming even more cautious of people now. He should learn sooner or later that Chivalry can be taken and used against someone if they are not careful.

Then again, he was at least thoughtful enough to leave a carriage for her.

Oh well, now though Maria had heretics to burn anyways.

Soon night became morning, and Maria was in the inn taking up some breakfast. The smell of freshly baked bread came into her nose as she came down the staircase. There was a little chatter, the people in the place seeming to have been hushed by the presence of something.

Her wonder was quickly answered as her eyes soon laid upon Prince Lucien eating at a table along with Bon and a speechless Albert.

Maria honestly did not have any words to say, as her bewilderment was astoundingly more than anything else. If she remembered correctly, Ford had the food delivered directly to their room the previous day, but now the dead man was slowly eating his bread.

“Oh hey there Maria!” Bon quickly called out with a smile, “Come on over and eat with us, unless you’ve gotten star struck.”

Maria quickly shaked her head the moment her brother’s comments strung and approached in all regal a walk as possible. Soon taking a seat where the a small plate of breakfast was waiting for her.

Wonder still wondered her mind, so Maria inched towards Bon, “Hey, uh, why is the Prince here? I thought he went back to the Academy.”

”Oh that?” Her brother taking the same silly whispers Maria was doing, “He told Ford that he will go back alone, as the Prince wanted to at least interact with the locals and their Lord.”

“And Ford?

“Left while trying to bash his head into everything he could. Seems he’s going to be gone for now.”

“For now?”

“The guards are still around.”

Maria’s eyes quickly searched the place, and sure enough quite a few were still around.

>Just get a conversation out of Lucien
>Recommend they go visit some of the Barons and Mayors today, you know, as a cover for Maria snooping around their entire place *Which suspect* *intrigue
>Recommend they just explore the town
>Other ideas?

Usually I end the threads here, but I'mma just let it continue until people stop showing up. The Thread just seems pretty small to me, maybe because I wasn't updating as much as I should.

>>4286012
>Just get a conversation out of Lucien
>>4286015
It’s fine man, it’s just that it is some what new. I’ve seen thread receiving updates once a day with 4-6 voters

>>4286012
>Just get a conversation out of Lucien

>>4286012
>Just get a conversation out of Lucien
Wow we've really fucked up with Ford huh. Wonder if that's repairable or not. (also good thing we avoided Lucien like the plague until now, so he can't say we charmed him into staying)

>>4286012
>Just get a conversation out of Lucien
Wow Lucien actually did something for once. I never thought we would be a good influence on him considering our complete lack of innocence.

>>4286116
Ford hasn't realized that Maria actually did him a favor and he hates us because of our Kingslayer title which makes us his worst nightmare in terms of fulfilling his duty. We are the very last person he ever wants around royals. The fact that he obsessively blames Maria instead of looking into his own faults and mistakes will bite him on the ass in the future big time. Maria played 'nice' by her standards and tried to point some very important things out to Ford before he would have to pay a much higher price for it. Its just Maria is not by any means a nice lady so its very easy to not notice when she IS playing nice by her own standards. Just not by anyone else's. As she is very much fond of the concept of tough love.

It doesn't help that most of the other people we are dealing with is far more innocent and naive then Maria. Who had to lose it for the sake of survival and has no qualms getting her hands very dirty or intimidating the worst of scum to work for her(even the fucking Morse royal guard pointed out she is one terrifying young lady). So far we only met one other student who actually somewhat understood Maria on that level. Funnily enough, he is also the only one who notices when Maria is actually playing 'nice'. Mostly because he's the only one who understands the fact of what Maria can do if she bothers to. This actually makes her a great if misunderstood villainess. Too bad one of the heroine's goals is to ruin that dynamic with the one guy who can actually understand where Maria is coming from.

>>4286012
>Recommend they go visit some of the Barons and Mayors today, you know, as a cover for Maria snooping around their entire place *Which suspect* *intrigue

If Maria had to be honest, she was feeling like a schoolgirl whose finally gotten to see her elusive Senpai. Actually, that might be the case as what is happening here. However, in both mind and body, the Villaness would not willingly subject herself to such a dumb emotional state. Still, he was looking quite lifeless while eating of all things.

“Good Morning Prince Lucien, it is a pleasure seeing you this morning.” Maria recited with a small wave of her hand.

“Mm, Good Morning Maria.” He answered with a rather straight emotionless face. He did not even flinch at her beauty, which Maria would have placed herself quite up there.

As expected of a man whose face reminds her of a corpse.

“Well, have you been able to go around the town a little yesterday?”

“I was escorted through the Markets.” Lucien answered rather straightforward.

“Were you able to talk to some people?”

He gave her a simple shaking of the head.

“Well thats a little drab.”

“Drab? Hmm, I guess it is.”

“Was there something interesting you found while you were out there?” Maria was more or less searching for topics to talk about now with a man who would only respond in simple words.

“...” The man actually went into thought for a moment, “The Clinic near the outskirts.”

Of course it was something that was meant to help the people, “What gave you an interest in that?”

“It seemed useful.”

“It is indeed, maybe there should be more built in other cities.”

He hesitated for a moment, but soon the man gave a nod to what Maria said.

>Get Lucien over to the Monastery so he can see their Hospital
>Go visit one of the Barons or the Count *You got Baron Vosk, Baron Clef, and the Unnamed Count*
>Simply travel around Town

>>4286353
>Get Lucien over to the Monastery so he can see their Hospital
Don't worry about being a small-time QM, it's pretty comfy here.

>>4286353
>Get Lucien over to the Monastery so he can see their Hospital

>>4286353
>Get Lucien over to the Monastery so he can see their Hospital
Ohh maybe while we're there we can finally talk to the nuns about what they saw in town

>>4286160
Honestly I really don't think we should have been so snippy with Ford when he wanted to take Lucien home - he's right saying something foul is afoot, and Maria should know that his loyalty to his liege lord would outweight his loyalty to a girl he's barely interacted with for a few months. She's not that innocent to kid herself into thinking he'll put the prince over her.

If we do apologise to him it should be for that, and not because of our earlier conversation.

>>4286353
>Get Lucien over to the Monastery so he can see their Hospital
As fun as it is, let’s not walk too much with the prince since we may put him in danger

>>4286353
>>Go visit one of the Barons or the Count *You got Baron Vosk, Baron Clef, and the Unnamed Count*
Baron Clef

We already got the other baron under observation. We can take a look at this one and if it spooks them then we have our hired help who can see any mistake they make in their panic.

“Well…” Maria thought to herself for a moment before gaining a smile, “How about we head over to the Monastery and check out the Hospital over there. While they are having a little bit of trouble, I am sure they would be open to you visiting them.”

The prince slowly moved forward in though, as if pondering her words. He was slow in it though, and for every moment he stood still it gave Maria a sense of uncanniness.

“Alright, I will go.” Were the words he finally ended it with.

Time quickly went by after those words, as Maria was riding in a carriage along with the Prince, her brother, and lastly Albert. There were not many words exchanged on the way, if because things were crowded and awkward. Already they had left the city, making their way through the gates that protected the holding and parked themselves outside of the main hall of worship.

After a few moments they unloaded, easily making their way through the front gate and into the building. Maria was in front, her sight soon focusing on the Deacon who she interacted with yesterday.

Said man quickly turned around, “Hmm, oh Kingslayer! You have returned so soon. Uh, is that a patient?”

Maria could not help but internally laugh when the man pointed out Lucien, but luckily held it in, “No, he is the Crown Prince Lucien. We were wondering if we could tour the health facilities.”

“Oh, is that so? I will admit things have not been the best without the blessings around, though the patients are luckily thin right now. Still, are you sure you four wish to visit our Hospital Wing?”

“I am sure Father.” Maria happily claimed with a thin smile.

“Well, alright then if you would follow me.”

They were taken through the halls of the Monastery, soon making their way outside into a satellite building. The Deacon brought the entourage in, soon showing the group about what Maria admitted was a nice hospital.

The walls were nice and cleaned, as if the place was relentlessly cleaned. This was followed by the fact there was only about four beds per room, each with what she guessed was proper bedding.

Her eyes moved around to those who were present. Yes their numbers were small, but Maria quickly realised they were likely the worst off she has ever seen. Some seemed completely bed ridden, while others were missing entire limbs and eyes.

All in all, such a dreadful sight.

[MIlitary Success]

Though as she was with them, her sight caught something just at the corner of her vision. Right outside of the wall a figure stood. If her guess was correct, it looked to be one of her scouts trying to stay hidden.

>Go out to meet with him.
>Stay within the Monastery for now
>Go meet with the Nuns while she is here again

>>4287886
>Go out to meet with him.
Let’s see what he found

>>4287886
>Go out to meet with him

>>4287886
>>Go out to meet with him.

Maria looked over the crowd of people busy working on studying the Hospital. The Prince himself of course was the most interested, his features looking like that of a normal man for the most part. Why, he was starting to look Handsome!

[Intrigue Successful]

However unlike what was Maria in an alternate life, this one was not stuck to the man simply because of looks and prestige. She hanged to the back of the group before taking a few steps back. Not even her own brother noticed as she slipped away from the crowd.

Getting to the Highwayman was easy enough, as she only needed to get over a short wall. Simple footwork allowed her to vault over and arrive at her minion’s place, much to his own surprise.

“K-Kingslayer!”

“What is there to report.” Maria quickly asked him with a swift brushing of the hair, “I was with the Prince you saw, so this better be important and ground breaking?”

“Hehe, I sure indeed!” He answered while producing a small letter that was already opened to Maria, “Dat idiot was sending dese out to a few prominent people, one messenger just so happened to have been mugged.”

Curiosity getting the better of her, Maria quickly looked over the letter’s contents.

Attention my fellow Brothers and Sisters,

I have hereby prepared a feast for us all to enjoy, in the name of our great Lord. There is much to be had, with wine and bread to be had all around. We even have an esteemed roast being brought in from the local Monastery, so I will be sure you all find it delectable.

With that, I am aware of something else needed. We require wheat yet sullied by the yeast of man. I have asked a fellow to help provide, though I am hoping for extras in case it does not make it.

Be here in two nights, along with those new to our order, before the bread grows stale.

-Lord Vosk

[Faith Success] [Religion Success]

…

Wine = Blood
Bread = Body

…

“Uh, miss are you alright?” Her sneezy minion asked with a raised brow.

“Not really, though you have brought to me the most disgusting piece of fiction I have ever read.” Maria answered with a wave of her hand, “Have you found anything else?”

“Well right now the Bois are looking into where these are goin’ though I can’t imagine we’ll be doing anything more outside of the city.” He said with a shrug, “Though one of da other Barons went in for a visit with a nice looking las. Think it was Baron Clef Note if I know them right.”

“Did he leave with her?”

The bandit gave a nod, “He did, though I got chills just looking over them afterwards.”

“Hmm…”

>Plan a home invasion of Baron Clef
>Return to the Entourage, ordering the bandit to get more info
>Plan to attack Baron Vosk, as it’s pretty obvious he has the Bishop.

>>4288181
>Return to the Entourage, ordering the bandit to get more info
More info is crucial for us to begin planning an attack

>>4288181
>Return to the Entourage, ordering the bandit to get more info
The nuns are literally right there people - they might have a clue of where the baron is hiding

>>4288181
>Plan a home invasion of Baron Clef
The bandits aren't going to give us much more info than they already did. Unless they actually have experience in breaking in.

If we want to find out anymore about what goes on in the castle we will have to sneak in ourselves.

‘Good good, be sure to collect more information for me.” She smile before giving a slight frown, “What is your name?”

“Oh, uh, Lex me lady. I’ll be off den.” And like that the man ran away like a skeeving creature.

[Agility Success]

With a sigh Maria turned about and once again made her way back to the Monastery. Such a feat was easy enough as she nubly went onto a log before vaulting over the wall itself. Honestly she was quite thankful to have abandoned motion of proper footwear in the form of practical leather shoes. What is being a little taller going to help her when she can’t perform these kinds of jumps or flee from attackers.

Soon she was back inside the Monastery, the thoughts that they should raise security quickly going through her mind.

“And this is the prayer room, where we have the patients pray before the remains of Saint Hospit.” Were the words Maria heard as she split into the room without anyone else noticing, “Is there anything you wish to know your Majesty?”

“Would you be able to rebuild something like this elsewhere?” Lucien asked with a straight unflinching face.

“Well, it would take time but we could surely try.” The Deacon’s face became fallen as he looked to the ground, “Though I will admit our trials and tribulations are useless without the Saint’s remains. He is the one who can bless the sick, so I would find it useless without them.”

“Would other Saints be able to do the same Miracles?”

“Uh, likely, though it is up to their temperament and the will of God. I cannot say so for sure.” He looked towards Maria with a calm smile, “Though I understand Maria the Kingslayer is looking for our relics and our liege. So I pray for all of your safeties.”

With that the man led them back towards the front, giving a curt bow to Prince Lucien before leaving.

“So, how did you enjoy the tour Prince Lucien?” Maria quickly turned to ask the Prince.

“It was good.” Was his simple response.

“Pff, good? You were holding onto his every word.” Bon laughed with a cheerful smile, “Hell, you were the most interested of all of us!”

“You are correct Bon.” The Prince simply said with a simple nod.

“Well!” The boisterous brother of Maria announced with a happy smile, “While I know the Prince enjoyed that, I’m sure everyone else wants to move their bodies and feed themselves! How about we go feed ourselves in town!”

>Agree to his little feast of an idea
>Take the chance to visit a Lord under more real pretences *Which one?*
>Have them go ahead while Maria goes back to speak with some Nuns
>Other kinds of schemes ahoy! *Write in*

>>4288743
>Have them go ahead while Maria goes back to speak with some Nuns

>>4288743
>Agree to his little feast of an idea

>>4288743
>Have them go ahead while Maria goes back to speak with some Nuns

“Uh, you all can go on ahead of me,” Maria told them, “I need to talk to a few people before I leave.”

“Are you sure about that?” Bon asked with a furrowed brow.

“I am sure, it might take me a while and I don’t want to get in the Prince’s way.” And with those words Maria broke off away from them, crossing through the gate and back into the Monastery. To her right, the guard gave her a quick nod as she went by.

It did not really take long before she made her way towards the Nuns, as she simply needed to find their congregation. It was located close to the Hospital, but once again not connected to it. Honestly Maria was quite surprised the people realised being so close to the sick would risk sickness themselves, but then again it was logical even without the knowledge of MOdern Medicine.

Since the place was arranged more as a dormitory, Maria simply walked straight into the place. To her luck there were a few Nuns who were quickly making their way towards the door she came from. Of course they stopped, not even expecting a stranger to have entered their quarters.

Since they were momentarily stunned Maria took the first few words, “Hello there, Mothers, if I may ask, can you answer a few of my questions?”

“A-are you the person doing the investigation?” A rather plain but slightly plump Nun asked.

“I am,” Maria said with a slight hand motion to herself, “I heard you and your Sisters were experiencing some kind of fright while being in the City, could you explain it more?”

The three looked at one another before the shortest answered, “Y-yes I can for them. Last time I was in the city, it was quite the harrowing experience. Oh it was ingrained into my memory, it was as if the Devil himself was watching my every step.”

Maria could not help but grow a small frown, “So you were being followed?”

“I must have been, and by the dreadful men who kidnapped the Bishop I am sure!” She claimed with a firm proclamation.

“So in the city…” Maria whispered to herself. Maybe if she tried, she could find where one of these cultists are inside of it and use them as a way in.

>Is there anything else you wanted to ask *Wrist in*
>Try and meet up with the Bandits
>Head back to the City, probably with the Monastery providing transport
>Other

>>4289221
>Head back to the City, probably with the Monastery providing transport

>>4289221
>Head back to the City, probably with the Monastery providing transport

>>4289221
>Head back to the City, probably with the Monastery providing transport

>>4289221
>Head back to the City, probably with the Monastery providing transport

With her questioning done Maria quickly made her way out of the place which was filled with Nuns. Her still able feet went through the courtyards and through the buildings to finally arrive at the gate. The one who guarded it turned his head to her, but no face could be seen as his face was covered with a steel helm.

“Kingslayer, I believe your transport left a little bit ago. Do you have another way of getting back?” He asked with a jovial tone.

“Well, I was wondering if you would be able to.” Maria asked with a fine smile.

[Conversation Success]

“Well, my Horse should be done eating. Give me a moment.” With that the Guard left the post in search of a horse for them to ride on.

As Maria waited for the man’s arrival, she quickly noticed a small speck flying across the small range of hills before her. She quickly realised it was approaching, and a moment later she could recognize who was riding it.

Ford, looking like he was a man on a mission. For what Maria could guess, he probably was.

Soon enough the steed arrived before her, rearing itself for only a moment before slamming itself on the ground. From what Maria could see of him, she could honestly say the man was probably working since the wee hours of the morning.

“Kingslayer,” His eyes were sharp as ever, “Why are you not with the Prince? Is that not all you wanted?”

“Pff, if we are talking on the list of my wants the first would surely be to recover my injury.” Maria joked with a cynical smile about herself, “Second is the integrity of the Church, to which I am an avid supporter. After those do I really wish to consider Prince Lucien in any regard.”

“Is that so?” He seemed to ponder on her words for a moment as if putting two and two together, “Does that mean you have been working on finding the Bishop and bringing his Kidnappers to justice?”

>Divulge the Information Maria has found
>She is working on it, but lie in that she is not that far into it
>She is working on it, but wont give him the information
>Simply claim ignorance
>Other

>>4289566
>She is working on it, but wont give him the information
>Unless you going to help me uncover this plot. I had great strides discovering something and I'm going town to confirm such.....claims which will harden the evidence that something is afoul.

>>4289566
>She is working on it, but ask him if he plans to help her with it before giving more information

>>4289566
>Divulge the Information Maria has found
Two heads are better than one and time is running out - plus it's not only the Bishop that's in danger but also the girls the barons have taken.

Not telling him is just being petty now.

>>4289566
>>Divulge the Information Maria has found

>>4289570
>>4289566
This. Don't trust Ford when he blew us off!

>>4289566
>>Divulge the Information Maria has found

>>4289566
>Divulge the Information Maria has found

“I am, so what is it to you.” Maria asked with a sly smile.

“I want us to share notes. It does not matter whether it is the Prince or the Church, if you help me we can probably get this done easily.”

Maria could not help but grown a small vein, “Help you? You are just going to walk up to me and take over the situation even though I am doing all the work.”

Ford did not say a thing as Maria simply shook her head, “Look I have done most of the work, so you are stepping on my toes. If you want the information, you are at least going to work together and listen to my words.”

“You will not make me do anything I don’t want to do.” Ford quickly said with a sharpened tongue, “Somethings like using the Prince as bait are things I will object outright, and others that endanger others without reason will do so as well.”

“Oh, I take it you learned not to give your unilateral word?”

“I did, all thanks to a snake.”

Maria gave a slight shaking of her head before giving out a small laugh, “Alright then I agree to those terms. So did you know there was a cult who is about to host a sacrifice?”

Maria quickly told him about the things she discovered, the man’s face become somehow both paler and much more angry as she did. By the end of it, he looked to be quite angry with the situation, “So what is the plan?”

>It is to gather information for now
>Investigate either Clef or Vosk under the cover of night, then capture most likely
>Find another cultist, so that Maria and maybe Ford can break into the event
>Spur on a witch burning to end these men’s lives.
>*Write in Scheme*

>>4290699
>Find another cultist, so that Maria and maybe Ford can break into the event

>>4290699
>Find another cultist, so that Maria and maybe Ford can break into the event
Booo why do you have to have *morals* Ford, you'll totally be against doing the easy thing and using Maria as bait.

We also gotta free the hostages before we go around arresting people, as they may be killed to get rid of the evidence should we spook the perpetrators. And with their testimonies we'll have more evidence to nail the barons.

>>4290699
>Find another cultist, so that Maria and maybe Ford can break into the event

>>4290699
Use us as bait obviously
>Find another cultist, so that Maria and maybe Ford can break into the event

“Hmm, well you got rid of a very valuable form of bait~, but I understand you completely.” Maria joked before her eyes soon widened, “But that is a good idea!”

“Whats a good idea?”

“Well we need to find an easy to hit Cultist, and they are looking for a Virgin. So why not use myself as the bait!”

“Eh?” His entire lookout made a complete one eighty as Maria’s words finished, “You want to use yourself as bait?!”

“Yes yes, now I do not want to repeat myself twice now do I.” Maria joked with a cynical smile.

“Are you sure about this?”

“Do you need to keep asking me?”

Maria could easily tell the son of a Marshall was trying to figure it out on whether or not he should even allow this. She could admit it was a little mean since it was a play on his words, but honestly she could not figure out something any better than that.

“Alright, but I am to be nearby the entire time.” Was his final answer.

“Perfect!” Maria quickly turned to a guard who was currently bringing up a horse, “Excuse me, could you get for me a Nun outfit?”

“Eh?”

Soon Maria was riding upon the back of a mighty steed at high speeds. It was nothing really special, as the last carriage was lost along with the Bishop. However the travel over was quite a bit of fun, especially with Maria’s blood pumping at their grand scheme.

She gave a wave to the Guard as she hopped off the horse, soon making her way into the city proper.

[Royal Demeanor Success] [Intrigue Success]

The people among the streets made way for her as Maria walked, the sight of a pure maiden easily causing waves of thoughts and reactions. If this was the kind of reverence she would expect as a Nun, maybe Maria should just take her vows and be done with it.

With that funny thought coming to pass, her eyes shifted towards where she was sure Ford was. The man was wearing a ruined cloak, something that somehow still could not detract from his handsomeness. Now though she needed to figure out how to bring out the purps…

>Travel down to the slums
>Have a fun time in the market
>Visit the High end of town
>Other places?

>>4291271
>Travel down to the slums

>>4291271
>Have a fun time in the market

>>4291271
>>Have a fun time in the market

>>4291271
>>Have a fun time in the market

>>4291271
>Have a fun time in the market

>>4291271
slums are too odd.
Market is more fitting for a lone nun and gives us the ability to plant more people without being obvious

>>4291271
>Have a fun time in the market

>>4291271
>Have a fun time in the market

>>4291271
>Have a fun time in the market
If this was a real otome Lucien would also be in the market and recognise nun!Maria (or at least find her familiar) But we probably have enough hijinks on our plate as is.

With steps that would humble even the saints, Maria drifted her way through the front gate and towards the Markets. Maria herself was dressed in the standard Nun garb, though she has also taken it upon herself to hide both her hair and eyes as much as possible. Thus no one who hopefully knew her would outright recognize her.

As such, the way people were moving away from her meant that this was simply the reverence of the Clergy within the city. Of course it might be a given that Maria’s own presence was forcing them, but honestly it was all to lure out anyone looking for that one virgin.

Finally she made it to the market, the sights of men bartering and selling products throughout the entire street. Their wares ranged from skinned beasts to bakery products to even large piles of flour. Such commerce gave a small spark in Maria’s heart, as it was evidence of a thriving mercantile sector of town. However, it did not take a genius to realise that things were just slightly off, as both sellers and buyers would occasionally look over their shoulders.

While the heat and mourning died down, deep down people still know something is wrong.

“Excuse me, Mother.” Maria quickly turned around to the voice of Albert, “Have you by chance come across a girl with stark purple hair and eyes?”

Maria’s eyes shifted to those right behind him, quickly she was able to figure out they were in fact her acquaintances.

[Intrigue Success]

She was under cover though, “I have not, my good sir.

“Hmm, thats a pity.” With those words he turned around, though as they did so she noticed one of the feet did not move.

Curiosity getting the better of her, Maria slowly looked up from their feet to see a very posh uniform that would belong to the prince.

Said prince spoke, “What are you doing out here?”

Maria bit her lip, “I am simply getting together some spices for my Sisters.”

She could feel his gaze shift, to about where Ford should have been, “Alright, I will let you continue your duties.”

And like that he left, returning to the rest of the posse.

Before Maria could let out a sigh of relief, however, there was a small but sudden shiver going up her spine. She could just taste the supernatural influence within it, but somehow the power was vastly weaker from what she ever experienced. One could compare it to a knock off of the Miaph’s powers, as Maria could somehow tell the raw makeshift nature of it.

However, she was not hampered in any way. Honestly, it was like something just pricked her. There was an influence within it, but she felt that it did nothing to her Soul. She did , however could feel where it was coming from, a nearby alleyway.

>Go towards it acting as a curious maiden
>Simply leave the area, luring it to a less populated area where it may strike.
>Try and relay the information to Ford, so that he may drop on them as Maria stays in the open
>Other Tactics?

>>4291734
>Simply leave the area, luring it to a less populated area where it may strike.
Let's give Ford more room to act as well

>>4291734
>Simply leave the area, luring it to a less populated area where it may strike.
We don't want innocents caught in the crossfire if it gets away from Maria and Ford - hopefully Ford has enough skill to realise Maria has something.

Also Lucien 100% recognised us Kek. Hopefully everyone else thinks his response is just his abrupt nature at play. I wonder if he'll let this go or stick around to see what's going on - he's pretty apathetic but he goes care about the wellbeing of his people, and he's smart enough to twig that the situation with the Bishop is the cause for Maria+Ford acting so strange.

>>4291734
>Simply leave the area, luring it to a less populated area where it may strike.

Try to signal Ford too

>>4291734
>>Simply leave the area, luring it to a less populated area where it may strike.
Are we armed with dagger or something?

>>4291734
> Simply leave the area, luring it to a less populated area where it may strike.

>>4291734
>Simply leave the area, luring it to a less populated area where it may strike.

Maria hid a small smile as she soon started taking steps from the crowds and towards the more residential parts of the city. Slowly she swayed, feeling the person’s presence follow her every move.

Though the question became where to strike first? Her eyes searched for something ideal, something that could give them the distinct advantage.

[Military Check Success]

So she moved towards the alleys, a place where the sun shined just that little bit more dim. To her persurer, the place was going to be the perfect area to take her out, which he did not see the pincer.

For a moment she caught sight of her pursuer, a man wrapped in dark clothing and obviously malicious. However, just as she saw him she saw a brown ruined cloak drift just slightly a few more paces behind the man.

So Maria turned a corner, soon stopping to hear the pitter pattering of footsteps coming quickly behind her. It seems her quarry grew restless with her wondering, and was wanting to take her out now.

>Combat, so I will need rolls with these. Bo3, Roll less than whatever check to succeed.

>Pick up a nearby plank and slam it into his head *Weapons-20*
>Try and scare him shitless *Royal Demeanor*
>Try and trip him *Athletics*
>Roundhouse Kick *Agility

Rolled 97 (1d100)

>>4292403
>Pick up a nearby plank and slam it into his head *Weapons-20*

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4292403
>Roundhouse Kick *Agility

Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>4292431
Wrong dice, my bad.

Rolled 23 (1d100)

>>4292403
>Try and scare him shitless *Royal Demeanor*

Rolled 76 (1d100)

>>4292403
>Roundhouse Kick *Agility
Kinda weird

Rolled 81 (1d100)

>>4292403
>Roundhouse Kick *Agility

>>4292432
Neat bros
>>4292435

Maria took in a breath, a sharp smile appearing upon her mouth. It was quite the strained moment, as one wrong move on her part would likely result in Maria getting hurt, if not killed. This girl however was the one who charged an enemy offensive in an attempt to save her family from complete destruction.

And back then, it worked.

[Agility Success]

The moment she saw his face Maria quickly brought her foot around, the assailant getting a face full of leather. There was a load smack, and then there was a satisfying sound of something meaty hitting the ground along with a metal ting.

With a quick motion Maria took her hood off, getting a full view of her surroundings. The cultist’s hood had fallen, revealing him to be a young looking, middle aged man with a very bloody nose.

Quickly she saw Ford tackle the man, the two quickly getting into a violent brawl as the trained swordsman bashed the man with a sword’s pumble. To say Maria was surprised however as the man was actually able to fight back and wrestle outside of Ford’s domineering strength and advantage was something Maria did not expect!

Slowly he got up, taking the brunt of Ford’s attacks but to no avail. With a shove he finally pushed him off, causing Ford to drop the sword. Maria cursed herself for not being able enough to interfere with the brawl.

“Guah! Mother Fuckers!” The man growled while Maria could easily see pieces of his skull falling to the ground.

The sound of a metal clang rang through the air, everyone’s eyes shifting to the blades. Resting next to one another was a sword and dagger that was as wicked as Hell itself.

>>>Roll a d100, Bo3
>Quickly run for the blades *Agility/Weapons*
>Try and land a slamming attack upon his neck *Agility*
>Do a body Slam *Athletics*
>Present the Saint’s Finger *Peity Check*

Rolled 100 (1d100)

>>4292680
>Quickly run for the blades *Agility/Weapons*

Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>4292680
>Quickly run for the blades *Agility/Weapons*

Rolled 23 (1d100)

>>4292680
>Quickly run for the blades *Agility/Weapons*
>>4292689
Yeah baby

>>4292710
It's a roll under system.
I hate them since I roll high like 90% of the time.
Just gonna hope it's not a crit override, those suck.

>>4292716
Its not, one time use.

>>4292716
Well, the last time a crit override happened it was because we took an specific action before the fight so I think it won’t happen here

>>4292723
I'll make a post after the show at 11 is done.

Rolled 84 (1d100)

>>4292680
>Quickly run for the blades *Agility/Weapons*

With a quick movement of her feet Maria moved forward, not even thinking about the chances of herself getting injured. All in all though she was in a better position than the two other combatants, as she had a pair of feet still on the ground.

So with a sprint and dash she crossed the alleyway, narrowly retrieving the sword before the cultist could do so himself. A small, sickening though came into her mind, and so Maria acted.

[Weapon Success]

One strike she landed right into his shoulder, the blade resting in her left hand. Yeah she was not proficient with it, but hell did it look like it hurt. The Cultist however was eyes wide open, as if he did not expect a Nun to pick up a weapon to be used so proficiently.

However she was not done, as Maria could easily see the whiteness of the man’s skull she was sure he could take a bunch more punishment. So before he could react, she made three strikes at his shoulder and hips. He did not even last as the man fell to the ground without any operatable limbs.

“F-fucking God.” However he seemed to be really conscious, “You will never take me, I will have the Demon curse you two!”

“Curse us? Well maybe if you are able to open that mouth of yours.” Maria laughed before pointing the blade at his face, “Ford, can you get us some rope and the like to tie him up.”

“Y-you maimed him.” The man who would have been a soldier looked over Maria with a small hint of fear.

“Pfff, he’s obviously being enhanced by some Demon Magic. No other way we would have taken this fellow down.”

“...” Ford simply shook his head quickly before going over and retrieving the rope Maria requested. Though the look on his face, where had she seen it before? It was equally relieved and terrified, like he had never actually seen someone killed before.

Hmm, wasn’t it back when Maria was first captured by the Miaphate? That would make it herself!

A small laugh escaped Maria’s lips as she pointed her weapon towards the foolish Cultist. He looked dead eyed at Maria with something more akin to terror as well now. What, is she becoming a monster even the Cultist of Demons would fear?

Either way, Ford quickly tied and dragged the man to a wall, “So… what do you want to do with him?”

“Well what else did we come here for, get information~” Maria answered with a twirl of a blade. The Cultist’s eyes were of steel, but Maria could easily tell they were starting to wane in the replacement of fear.

>Simple torture tactics, beatings and the like.
>Take a limb off for every question not answered
>See if Holy Artifacts can fuck with him
>Other

>Also put in the Questions you want him to answer

>>4292907
>Take a limb off for every question not answered
Ask for the location of where he would have taken kidnapped women. Who leads him. The name of the demon.

Also start with the finger and toe joints. More things to cut off there before we can start cutting off bigger chunks.

I'm sure anons might have better suggestions.

>>4292907
>See if Holy Artifacts can fuck with him

>>4292907
>Take a limb off for every question not answered
If the guy is being supported by demonic magic either this or holy magic are methods that have a good chance of drawing any information out of him.
He'll just take any beatings we give him, and I don't want to risk our finger necklace becoming well-known, since it's keeping the influence of the gods at bay.

As for questions, >>4292912
Should do nicely. Also ask him if the site of the feast is the same place he would've taken the virgin.

>>4292907
>Take a limb off for every question not answered

>>4292912
These are good - maybe also ask which nobles are involved, and if they've got the Saint bones.

>>4292907
>>Take a limb off for every question not answered

>>4292907
>Take a limb off for every question not answered

>>4292907
>See if Holy Artifacts can fuck with him
It's not like he couldn't just lie to our face, since we have no way of verifying anything he says.
Simple fear won't work well.

>>4292907
>Take a limb off for every question not answered

“Ah, yes, we can start like that.” Maria steadied the sword and drifted it ever closer to the Cultist’s arm, “Answer my questions. If you do not, I will simply start removing your limbs.”

The man who was tied up looked at Maria with ever so widening eyes, that slightest hint of steel ever fading as Maria loomed over him. Yes this was her guess, the simple fact that being a Cultist was likely a selfish endeavor. Being selfish, well the man would be much more likely to spill the beans so to say.

“First question is quite simple, where would you have taken me if I was captured?”

“Hrm...”

The Cultist seemed to hold his breath, as if trying to figure out exactly whether or not to say anything. However, such an indecisive attitude was something she could not accept from her prisoner. So with a swift motion of the sword, she lopped off his hand.

“Guh! You fucking wench!”

“You took too long.” Maria pointed the sword to his legs next, “Answer or else.”

“F-fine!” He yelled, “I was going to take you to the Karne’s Cavern. Happy you bitch?”

“Very much so~” Maria drifted the weapon away from him, noting how those words seemed to ring a little bit of truth in his voice, “Next one, who is the head?”

“Baron Vosk.” He answered with much more push.

“Cooperative are we? Alright then, what is the name of the Demon we face?”

“Y-you want to learn its name?” Maria slowly started raising the blade, “Mal’heili! His name is Mal’heili!”

>Any more questions?

>Lob his head off
>Try and lock him up, probably to burn him later.
>Let him go free, under the rule that he serves Maria… for now…
>Other ways to dispatching him?

>>4293352
>Other ways to dispatching him?
Thank him for his answers and slit his throat.

>>4293402
lets NOT do that in front of Ford. Taking his hand is iffy enough.

He shall have a fair and speedy trial before a bunch of biased nobles and his body hung from the walls justly.

>>4293352
>>Try and lock him up, probably to burn him later.

>>4293352
>Try and lock him up, probably to burn him later
I mean, he still has more limbs if we want to question him later...

Also if we end up romancing Ford this is turning out to be one *hell* of a first date.

>>4293352
>>Try and lock him up, probably to burn him later.
>>4293405
>Not impaling, considering who Maria is based on?

File: gWjyhyX.gif (582 KB, 500x270)

582 KB GIF

“Alright, lets go on ahead and gag him.” Maria answered with a thin but vicious smile, “He will be in the Mayor’s dungeons until we can round up the rest of them.”

“That will do him well.” Ford replied while wrapping the ropes around the man’s mouth, “After that, we need to turn in for the night.”

Maria’s eyes widened slightly as she quickly looked around the place, the light of the day starting to fall into night. She was so into these little schemes that she lost track of time. A great pity too, as she seemed to have lost an entire day of being with the Prince to her fight against Heresy.

“Can you lock him up then? I need to return as soon as I possibly can.” Maria asked the Marshal’s Son.

Ford shook his head, “Go and be with the Prince. If just to make sure Lucien is safe.”

“Thank you!” And with those words Maria had a brisk walk out of the alleys, her clothing that of a basic peasant since she wasn’t going to walk in a bloodied Habit.

The stalls all about the place were slowly being packed up and prepared for either the nightly stays or people’s trips back home. The few who could stay open did, which of course caused a small congregation of people about them.

Maria’s eyes lazily passed over them, quickly stopping as her eyes laid upon an unmistakable black haired girl. In seeing this, Maria could not help but take steps forward with a small fire burning in her chest.

As if a prey instinctually aware of the predator, Melody slowly turned her old Master with freight.

[Royal Demeanor Check Failed]

“Melody…” A small but fiery word escaped Maria’s lips, “Is this where you have been the entire time!”

“M-Miss Mari-” Before she could finish her sentence a strong hand gripped her cheek and gave a mighty pull.

“You abandoned me the day before my Tournament! The one I was injured in!” Maria yelled while pulling ever the tighter, “I have been in need of your assistance from day one! And this is where you ran off to!”

“Mish Muria Stap!” Melody begged while Maria pinched her cheeks in punishment, “Fafer Need help!”

Since she could not hear the girl, Maria stopped and allowed her some respite. She held her wounded cheek with a bit of care, looking towards Maria with a small frown. Soon though she straightened herself back up and gave a sigh.

“My apologies for leaving on such short notice, but you see my Father came about with a bunch of problems as of late. I returned at behest of Mother.”

“And what would those be?” Maria almost growled.

“Wel, uh, maybe not here.” The girl answered while looking about the place, “We could return to my family’s manor to talk more properly.”

Yes indeed, Maria’s actions have surely brought some onlookers. Yeah, she might have over done it.

>Agree to head to her Family’s home
>Suggest they go to an Inn
>No, here and now!

>>4293503
>>Suggest they go to an Inn

>>4293503
>Suggest they go to an Inn

>>4293503
>Suggest they go to an Inn
Lucien will probably appreciate that we're doing right by his subjects desu.

Though we're 100% bullying Ford into letting us ride back with him.

>>4293503
>Suggest they go to an Inn

“No, we are going to head to the Inn.” Maria answered back with a harsh determined call.

[Conversation Success]

“.. Alright. Let us go My Lady.” She answered with a slight bow, soon following Maria to where they were going to make a conversation.

It did not take Maria long to get through the streets after that, no one or somethings getting in her way. She was of course a woman on a mission, a mission to interrogate her own maid who abandoned her.

Soon the doors of the Inn slammed open, Maria only slightly cooling down. She could see her brother, Bon, quickly make a motion to her before his face was filled with confusion.

“Hey, isn’t that your-”

“Yes, this is my Maid, Melody.” Maria answered with a slightly aggravated face, “Sorry brother, but I need to figure things out with her in a few moments.”

Soon enough Melody closed the door behind herself and Maria, a more mortified face about her, “Lady Maria, I am sorry for leaving you like that!”

“Yes yes you already said that.” Maria made a wave of her hand in annoyance, “So what is the problem with your Father? Actually, who even is your father?”

“Well… uh, my Father’s full title is Baron Clef Note of the Symphony Barony.” Her face became red, a healthy fear soon turning to panic, “H-he has changed in the last few months. Mother you see noticed after he went on a day of hunting with some of the other Barons and Counts. He’s been unreasonably angry and mama fears he has started to reach into Lunacy.”

“Lunacy…” Maria mouthed those words for a moment before her brow furrowed, “What kind of lunacy? How bad has he gotten?”

“H-he sometimes talks weirdly. Sometimes I think he’s a completely different person!”

[Faith Check Success]

Change in behavior and erratic actions. Speaking in tongues. Maria should have expected something like this to happen, but these are symptoms of someone being possessed! Why the only thing the man has not done is try and embrace a new found heresy against the Church!

>Demand that Melody stay in the Inn for this night and the next
>Let her go, as now is not the time to alert them.
>Take her back personally, and definitely with some form of Backup
>Any other schemes?

>>4294403
>Let her go, then follow her while remaining hidden.
We shouldn't alert them, but they may take her as the virgin sacrifice if we let her go alone.

>>4294403
>Let her go, as now is not the time to alert them.

>>4294403
>Take her back personally, and definitely with some form of Backup
Very tough choice here but I don't like taking my chances like this.

>>4294403
>>4294412
Supporting this, but also adding
>Grab some backup to follow her.

With the scene Maria made in the square her not going back will raise some eyebrows, and also the other anon is right about her possibly being used as a sacrifice (especially since that mook failed to grab anyone) but at the same time Maria is injured and shouldn't be tailing her alone in case things turn ugly.

Pity Ford has peace out, but maybe we can grab some of the boys. Does Albert know his way around a weapon?

>>4294489
She should be fine until the feast, but she did unfortunately get called back by her family around the time the bishop went missing, so I think we should just observe her and take action when they do.
My main concern is if they decide to imprison Melody so she can't get away from them.

>>4294494
Bringing too many people compromises stealth, and I'm confident in Maria's ability to hide, sneak around, and escape, even with a useless arm.

>>4294403
>Take her back personally, and definitely with some form of Backup

Take the bandits we have with to tail her and keep an eye out. If possible disguise one of them as a bodyguard who is a newly recruited knight sent by her employer(us) to make sure of her safe return back to work. Technically they can't move against the bodyguards or her without earning the ire of her employers(us). If possible borrow an actual royal guard for the bodyguard duty but if not make do with the bandit with the best manners and most skilled liar.

>>4294513
>>4294494
Don't forget about the bandits we just recruited. They are a bunch of sneaky bastards and would make the best covert backup we can get.

>>4295015
We don't want to scare off the demons, then we won't have enough evidence to get rid of the nobles or retrieve the bishop.
The thieves are already hunting down leads for us, and we'd need to find them when there's no guarantee they'd be nearby.

>>4295017
It's about plausible deniability. She works for the Kingslayer who is rightfully feared and rather paranoid given her experiences. There will be some bandits nearby because there is no way they aren't keeping an eye on us in order to ensure we uphold our side of the deal as they won't be trusting us. The bandits are the best we got for sneaky escorts and watching. I would prefer to borrow a royal guard because that would work a lot better. Keep in mind the demon suspects that she suspects. So it won't be surprised if she takes countermeasures. The thing that would hold it back is her employers so long as we don't hint about the church involvement or demon hunting. It would just blame her boss and the old man for making his daughter work for someone so troublesome.

>>4295025
The demon doesn't know anything yet, which is why there's an option to simply let her go so as not to alert them.
Only our acquaintances know we're doing anything personally about the bishop, and any overt move like personally bringing your maid back to her house for no reason at all is going to earn suspicion, especially after their mook got vanished into the dungeons.

“Then you should return to him.”

“Eh?”

Maria’s eyes leveled with Melody’s, “Head back to your Father. While I would love to use you again, your Father’s mania might be too great to leave him along. I will look into things to see if I can help, but for now just take care of your Father.”

[Conversation Success]

“Th-thank you so much Lady Maria!” And like that she bolted out of Maria’s room like an arrow let loose from a bow. Maria herself could only sigh, as she quickly changed for much more light and able clothing.

It seemed that their little conversation whittled away the daylight, leaving Maria with a mostly lit moon in the air. From her guesses, it would be about two more days when the full moon will shine.

Just in time for the ritual…

For now though, Maria was stalking her maid of all people. Never in her life did she expect to think that, but what can you do.

“Hey Miss, so ya know this gal?” The words of her companion in staking asked.

“Indeed that is so. Do you recognize her from somewhere?”

“She’s the one dat Baron took to the other. Is she special or something?” He asked in the hush voice.

“Only with something everyone will lose at some point. Is that Baron Clef’s keep?” Maria pointed towards the end of their trail, a modest sized fortress with a mote all around it.

“Dat would be. You want us to ransack the place? Since we got so much moonlight I can easily get us into the place.” Maria looked at an evilly grinned minion. Of course they were bandits originally, so there was no qualms about people’s property.

>Agree to sneak into the place
>Just keep watch, as Maria needs to fucking sleep
>Why not check out the other Baron’s Keep
>Other

>>4295190
>Just keep watch, as Maria needs to fucking sleep

>>4295190
>Agree to sneak into the place

>>4295190
>Agree to sneak into the place
With the letter we already have evidence against Vost, but nothing against Cleft. Plus maybe we can help with the possession.

>>4295190
>Agree to sneak into the place

>>4295190
>Agree to sneak into the place

Can I get a roll. Normally I'd let you guys go through Assassin's Creed style, but Maria is still suffering from her injury. Bo3 of course, roll low.

Rolled 39 (1d100)

>>4295454
let's fucking go

Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>4295454

Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>4295454

“Alright, sounds good enough to me. Lets get this done then.” Maria acknowledged while sneaking her way towards the wall.

“W-waid I was makin a joke!” The bandit called out, but his words were paid no heed. He mouthed a curse soon after, and then quickly followed his employer.

The grass was low for the most part, so neither of them benefitted from such cover. However, maybe it was the man’s mania or the state of affairs, but there seemed to not be enough garrisoned troops to see as Maria sneaky sneaked to the small body of water that divided them from the wall itself.

“Uh, whatcha going to do now miss? I don’t think we can really swim without causin’ much noise.” The bandit admitted upon arriving to Maria.

“Hmph, not with that attitude. Watch.” Maria went a few feet back, quickly sprinting as fast as she possibly could. To the Bandit’s amasement, she bounded it and easily landed at the other side with ease. He could only grumble, wondering if she was some sort of superhuman. Then she started scaling the wall with a single hand, and he decided she was.

Maria rolled herself into the top of the wall, a small panting escaping her. Such an attempt was quite hard, and she probably should not have pulled it off. However she looked over and reached down her only good arm, quickly grabbing onto the rather meek looking Bandit and pulling him over.

“Guh! Fucking hell.” He announced while getting his own breaths, “I didn’t even know I could do that.”

“Oh, then you have much to learn.” Maria mused while looking into the emptied courtyard and the sections of castle, “That was the hardest part I am sure.”

“I fuckin hope so. Hey, do you atleast have a dagger or something?”

“Hmm, me?” Maria gave a small smile before brandishing the ritual dagger looted from the Cultist, “I certainly do.”

“Damn.” Was all he could say before getting up and moving with Maria to the keep proper.

>Try and find the Study
>Track down Melody to use her as a guide
>simply find the Baron himself
>Just do a general survey of the building itself.

>>4295498
>Track down Melody to use her as a guide

>>4295498
>Track down Melody to use her as a guide

>>4295498
>Try and find the Study
We should keep Melody at arms length, considering that she was the mystery girl the other Baron was seen with and we don't know how deeply she's involved with this.

Let's try to find the Baron's dirty laundry first. (And not the Baron, if he's really possessed I don't want to go fighting him on his own turf with only a dagger and our Minion for weapons)

>>4295498
>Just do a general survey of the building itself.
We can come back and check out the study tomorrow after we know the layout.

>>4295498
>Try and find the Study

With access to the interior, Maria was easily able to make her way about the grounds. Her eyes were sharp even in the moonlit courtyard, so she easily navigated the lands to ultimately arrive at a slightly ajar back door. To her reasoning, it must have been the one used by the Servants and was meant to be inaccessible to invaders whenever there was a siege by being at the very and narrow back.

It was however a blatant weak spot if one was not keeping their eyes on the place.

So Maria and her Bandit companion quickly sneaked their way through the door and into the building proper. The sooth snoring of servants and guards easily telling Maria there was no one going about the hallways.

As comes to the reason why would you need to patrol your own home from intruders?

“Fufu, now where is his study?”

It was honestly against Maria’s like that whatever was akin to a hallway was minimal at best. She inadvertently wondered into the kitchen, then the dinning room, then a more standard welcoming room.

“Hey, I thinkin I found somethin’.” her companion announced while looking into one of the attachment rooms that was accessed through a staircase. Maria quickly followed, the man snipping a lock open with his lockpicking prowess.

What welcomed them was the Study, something that would have looked plain if not for the papers scattered everywhere.

“Wow, what the fuck has be been drawin’. Dese runes and shit?”

[General Education Check Successful]

Maria herself was looking over a variety of documentation. While initially they would have been mistaken as demonic gibberish, it was obvious they were a mix of both normal writing and some odd script. It looked to be someone struggling against insanity, and Maria was sure the Baron would somehow be able to read this.

When she suddenly heard a voice, Maria pocketed the notes into her cloak.

“Tsk, looks like some people are hangin’ out in dat front room.” Her Bandit announced while hanging near the staircase, “I can’t tell whose there, and honestly I don’t wanna risk it findin out.”

>Take the risk, these writings are too insane to comprehend
>No, Maria cannot be discovered in enemy territory
>Hmm, maybe take the moment to instead lead them up here, make it an ambush!
>Other

>>4295752
>No, Maria cannot be discovered in enemy territory
Is that check a combination of all our knowledge categories ?

>>4295752
>No, Maria cannot be discovered in enemy territory

>>4295752
>>No, Maria cannot be discovered in enemy territory
Yeah we'll have a *very* hard time talking ourselves out of this one if we're caught.

>>4295752
>No, Maria cannot be discovered in enemy territory

”Nope nope nope” Maria considered it for only a moment, but quickly and violently shool herself out of any consideration of eavesdropping. Right now she was injured and has no real way of getting out of it if she was caught, ”Do you know of a good way out?”

“Hmm, maybe if we goin’ this way…” And with that the bandit sneezly made his way past the staircase and into what looked to be a small ladder going up.

Maria gave a sigh, knowing just how difficult it was climbing walls. Yeah it was hard getting up the ladder, but at least she was able to. The midnight wind brushed her hair, and quickly the two went to one of the edges. Looking off to the side, the could see a rather large mote of water just sitting there underneath them.

“Well Miss, I don’t see any other way.”

“I do not either. At least let’s lower ourselves down with some rope.”

With that they scaled down the wall with some rope, Maria quite enjoying the fact she was getting soak by the end. A quick swim across it and they were home free. There seemed to be a light alarm as they did, since swimming did cause a bunch of splashing.

Soon though they were finally at the forest, Maria taking a small stock of the situation, “Alright then, we should probably head back to our homes to sleep.”

“Alright ma’am, I’ll see you then.” And like that the Bandit ran off without much of a word.

Maria herself went back to the Inn, quite the walk in her honest opinion. By the Lord, she was going to not be waking up tomorrow morning that is for sure!

>Go visit the Cultist in the dungeon
>Read the papers that Maria had stolen
>Investigate the Cultist’s house, the one who was locked up.

>>4296112
>Read the papers that Maria had stolen

>>4296112
>Read the papers that Maria had stolen

>>4296112
>Go visit the Cultist in the dungeon

>>4296112
>Read the papers that Maria had stolen

When the sun finally brushed Maria’s face she finally arose from the bed, her head aching from lethargy. Yeah it might not have been the best idea to have stayed out so late but Maria was not going to bother regretting it now.

Mindlessly Maria reached into her cloak, her eyes slightly widening when she brought out the papers that she smuggled. If her memory was correct, she dropped into a large body of water without anything to protect her goods. It should have been ruined, so what the hell was happening.

Quickly she moved to the small desk on the other side of the room, quickly sprawling out the dozens of papers so that she could look over them all. Just as before, they were filled with common script in combination with the much more ludacris runic script.

First she read over the common script that she was comfortable with. It was quite the jumbled up mess, but they seemed to grow with clerity the more she looked over them.

“The Golden Child will come…”

“...hearts are her claim…”

“...the Kingslayer shall f…”

Maria could not stop herself, as Golden Child was only referencing one other person she knew of.

Chloe, the Protagonist.

The poor bastard, Maira lamented, as it seems the Demon must have some form of future cognition. But then again, is taking the words of a Demon to heart really the right thing? Oh the troubles and tribulations she was going through, the amount of possible heresy she will experience!

”The date has moved.”

Maria’s eyes sharpened onto a single piece of paper, one whose sentence was the longest available. She mouthed those words, and then thought over them again. It might be the only sentence that she could honestly read clearly.

What was this date? Was it referencing her return to the Academy? Was it the arrival of Chloe!? Or was it….

The date to the ritual?

>Rush to the Cultist’s old house
>Get into contact with the rest of Maria’s Bandits
>Other?

>>4296653
>Get into contact with the rest of Maria’s Bandits
Get at least some of them to stake out Karne’s Cavern, and the Baron's places - also see if they've picked up anything unusual.

Then once we've checked in with them we storm the cultist's place.

>>4296653
>Get into contact with the rest of Maria’s Bandits

>>4296653
What a twist. The otome protagonist is a consort of demon. This will be fun.

>>4296653
>Get into contact with the rest of Maria’s Bandits

>>4296653
>Get into contact with the rest of Maria’s Bandits

>>4296757
What's more interesting is that the demon apparently wants us dead and intends to use the protag. Here I thought the Miaphat gods were the only ones who had it out for us so far. I guess being a Kingslayer REALLY makes them worried.

There are quite a bit of ramifications if this demon’s nonsense is truely the prediction of the future. Like how he was even able to perform it, his relation to the Gods of this world, and what the fuck does he want of Maria and Chloe.

Maria could only click her tongue, as what else was there to figure out. She would need to capture the Demon in question, but would listening to its words really be the right decision.

Maria decided not to think about it now, instead rushing out of her door.

“Hey sleepy head how are you-”

“Sorry brother I need to go!” Maria quickly blazed past him, the man’s mouth just barely open as she did.

Quickly she made her way through town, the streets themselves quite abandoned. Low hanging clouds in the sky signaled a storm, but for some reason none came. Honestly though, it was like the plague scared everyone into their doors.

Soon though she crossed through the gate, comindering a horse so that she could quickly make it to the forest.


“Hey Ma’am!” Soon enough she was called by one of her minions, the sluggish looking man coming quickly over, “We got some news. Dat Baron has sent another round of letters!”

“Were we able to learn the reason why?”

The man nodded, “Here it is.”


Attention Brothers and Sisters,

It seems the Lord wishes to push the meeting forward by a night, sighting that the hands of men wish to crush us. Thus we must complete the ritual that will surely ensnare both them, and those above us to our cause!

Another Brother

“What time is it.” Maria quickly called out to her minion once she finished reading over the paper.

“Uh, a little ways past the Afternoon ma’am.”

Maria clicked her tongue, it seems everything was already happening and she slept in because of a long night!

>Set up an ambush at the cave, where the ritual will happen
>Try and get the peasants whipped up in a religious fervor to kill the heretic
>First things first, Maria needs to find Ford

>>4297171
>First things first, Maria needs to find Ford