[a / b / c / d / e / f / g / gif / h / hr / k / m / o / p / r / s / t / u / v / vg / w / wg] [i / ic] [r9k] [cm / hm / y] [3 / adv / an / cgl / ck / co / diy / fa / fit / hc / int / jp / lit / mlp / mu / n / po / pol / sci / soc / sp / tg / toy / trv / tv / vp / x] [rs] [status / ? / @] [Settings] [Home]
Board:  
Settings   Home
4chan
/qst/ - Quests


File: Quest Cover.png (1.93 MB, 1181x1748)
1.93 MB
1.93 MB PNG
Maria Louisa Regnia, the Kingslayer and potential Saint. In only a matter of days Maria was forced to endure the arrival of the Heroine, and the painful turns that it entails. She was humiliated, and in the moments after the Heroine’s apology Maria realized an offence more grave was committed. It was Slander committed by the Marshall’s son Ford.

With this, Maria has declared her intentions known to the man and thus his Prince’s faction, that they were enemies.

Now Maria must act, forming allies who are willing to even go to war for her.

Standard Skills
Social Skills
>Royal Demeanor [85]
>Conversation [60]
>Expression [15]
Intellectual Skills
>History [30]
>Intrigue [75]
>Medicine [30]
>Economics [60] Upgrade at weeks end.
>Military [70]
Physical Skills
>Agility [60]
>Weapons [80]
>Athletics [30]
>Animal Handling [15]
Mystic Skills
>Faith [50]
>Magics [20]
Other Items
>Wealth [10]
>Direct Military Strength [10]
>Social Standing [52] (Kingslayer)

Note that
15 Novice
25 Apprentice
50 Adept
75 Expert
100 Master

Previous Threads:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=otomeqm
>>4329382
>>
The sun had reached the midday mark as Maria was wondering about the inner courtyard of the Academy. Birds were chirping, and the sounds of crowds moving about were in Maria’s ears. Though it is where they were going is what interested her at this point.

It is Thursday, four days from the Lord’s day of rest and the second day before the Academy itself does so. It was only yesterday that Maria broke into the Prince’s room and yelled at Ford. She has yet to see or hear of him throughout the day, so she was wondering what their deal was. Then again, they could be preparing to drop her acts at an opportune time.

It did not really matter right now to Maria as she finally heard the voices of men yelling.

“You fucking bastard! You should be thankful the Emperor even let you attend the Academy!”

“I do not bow to your emperor, as neither does the Holy See, damn imperialist!”

“For this infraction against us, I will have you!”

“I like to see you try!”

“Bastard!”

“Chlop!”

Looking over the crowds there was a pair of men, one dressed in more puffy fured clothing while the other was wearing a more sleek suit. These were the two young men known as Johnson Humperdink and Oskar Balinski.

While at the start Johnson came over to accuse Oskar of subversion, their argument had quickly devolved into something that could be described as warlike. I her honest opinion, such a rivalry could truly spark a war, as both men were slated to inherit their lands. One the Duchy of Nordost, the other Holand.

Their reason for this, Oskar seems to have gotten too close to a girl from one of Johnson’s Counties. A Miss Lisa Monita who was hiding away right now. The men should count themselves lucky for that, since this was a nasty affair in and of itself.

Though sadly it seems Maria got to the tail end of their yelling match, as both men simply stared at each other before splitting off from one another. Guess both were lucky neither were armed today, or Maria would have assumed arms would have been thrown.

>Go to Johnson Humperdink, to act as a counselor for him.
>See Oskar, Maria’s Second Cousin, as a family member seeing another in trouble.
>Track down this Lisa Monita, as she has the most power in this situation.
>>
>>4366392
>Track down this Lisa Monita, as she has the most power in this situation.
>>
>>4366392
>>Track down this Lisa Monita, as she has the most power in this situation.
>>
>>4366392
>Track down this Lisa Monita, as she has the most power in this situation.
>>
>>4366392
>>Track down this Lisa Monita, as she has the most power in this situation.
Gurl power
>>
>>4366392
>Track down this Lisa Monita, as she has the most power in this situation.
You forgot do update our Conversation stat bro
>>
>>4366392
Ford is on some peace between the lands kick yes? What better first step for revenge than making him look incompetent by being BETTER at achieving his goals than he is?
>Track down this Lisa Monita, as she has the most power in this situation.
>>
>>4366639
At this point, he is sticking close to the prince and if the prince doesn't go out, he is inside the room. He's probably thinking 10 different ways on how he could defend herself from us. I won't be surprised if he nailed now the windows with wooden planks.
>>
>>4366392
>Track down this Lisa Monita, as she has the most power in this situation.
>>
Maria thought to herself for a moment, ideas going through her head on what to do. Surely she could side herself with one of the men, making either Oskar easy to backstab or leverage herself on Johnson. Both were modest options, but there was only one option that seemed to spark Maria’s taste.

[Military Success]

As such, it was not hard for her to spy on the girl who was suffering these two men and their feud. Around the corner she could see someone running away as fast as they could, easily someone who was not part of the average crowd.

With that thought in mind, Maria made her way around towards the direction of the fleeing person. So Maria drifted her way through the yard, tracking the person with likely guesses and estimates.

It was hard, but here Maria was almost a Master at Military.

“Those idiots…”

A small smirk came across Maria’s face as she closed in, the sound of tears easily giving the girl away. There was a small irony, as Maria was sure she should be feeling horrible about closing in like a predator finding their prey, but here Maria could not resist it.

“Why do they both have to be like this.”

Soon enough Maria came upon a slightly brown haired girl, hunched over in a corner like a fool. From the few looks upon her face, Maria could guess that she was a more fair person. Though she was no where near the sights of both herself and Chloe.

[Intrigue Success]

In the end it seems she did not notice Maria’s stalking. Such a sad state of affairs, though Maria honestly could not feel that bad for her. Now was the time to gain the advantage.

>Approach her like one would a friend.
>Give her a devils deal, one that she learns who she loves. The Price however, is up to you Anons.
>Simply stalk her for now, try and get a feel for her
>>
>>4366852
>Simply stalk her for now, try and get a feel for her
>>
>>4366852
>Simply stalk her for now, try and get a feel for her
>>
>>4366852
>Approach her like one would a friend.
>>
>>4366873
>>4366878
Feels like we're groping her mentally and emotionally.
>>
>>4366914
Knowing your target is crucial to manipulating them.
>>
>>4366914
gib vote, anon
>>
>>4366852
>>Simply stalk her for now, try and get a feel for her
>>
>>4366852
>>Simply stalk her for now, try and get a feel for her
>>
>>4366947
Aight
>>4366852
>>Simply stalk her for now, try and get a feel for her especially on the breast
>>
>>4366852
>>Simply stalk her for now, try and get a feel for her
>>
>>4366852
>Simply stalk her for now, try and get a feel for her
>>
File: bathtime onichan.jpg (22 KB, 619x468)
22 KB
22 KB JPG
>>4367002
das gai
>>
>>4366852
>Simply stalk her for now, try and get a feel for her
Maybe see is she's favouring one over the other, however slightly.

Also...is Oskar the Holand prince who's attending the academy, or is he just a random Holand noble?
>>
>>4366642
Letting him b overly paranoid might be hilarious in it's own right since Bon is always there, so he thinks we're spying on him at all times when Bon is just hanging out with his friends.
>>4366852
>Ask her if she wants somebody to talk to. Helping her sort out what she wants to do with herself seems like the easiest solution. Then we bother trying to figure out how to deal with the fallout between the two men.
>>
>>4366852
>Simply stalk her for now, try and get a feel for her
>>
>>4367804
Should we pass Ford's window or door talking loudly preferably with Bon just to tease him? It would be glorious if we pull this prank.
>>
So its Stalking...

You know, I should not expect anything less of you all.
>>
>>4367769
He is the Prince of Holand, here to earn his blessing from God to become a ruler.
>>
File: eb2.png (502 KB, 680x382)
502 KB
502 KB PNG
While there will likely be a time Maria needs to make direct contact with this girl, now was not it. Information of course was the highest priority and as such she would make sure this girl will never be alone for the coming few minutes.

“Come on Lisa, get yourself together. Looking like a peasant will only make the situation worse.” She called out while patting her face.

[Intrigue Success]

After a few more minutes of psyching herself up the girl took a few steps for the exit right past Maria. The Villainess simply blended into the shadows as she did so, the target completely unaware of her existence.

So they walked, Maria blending into walls and corners as the mistress she was tailing was making her way to somewhere. Time was passing, and soon Maria would need to divert if she wanted to attend her classes. However…

“Lisa, there you are!” cried out the man Maria guessed was Johnson, “I was looking all over for you.”

“You were…”

“Yes, I wanted to have some lunch with you but then…” The young fellow did not continue his words.

“It’s alright, I was out with some friends.” She lied while shaking her head a small bit, “I guess I am sorry about not being that easy to find.”

“No, I just got really distracted by someone. I should learn to keep a better handle on yourself.” Johnson said while rubbing the back of his head.

“Taken you long enough to realize that.” Lisa said with a tempered laugh, “Don’t be going head long into things like this anymore, and I am sure you will live longer.”

“Well, never late than never right?”

With that the two shared a short laugh between each other, the small feel of familiarity going through the air. Such a state of affairs was something Maria suspected but was not going to confirm until she had this kind of proof. It seems that Stacy did not know her Cousin as well as she thought…

“Well, its time for us to get to class.” Lisa said with a slim smile.

“Oh yeah, your right. Uh, hope to see you later than?”

“Yeah, we can do that.” Lisa answered before the two of them breaking apart.

Now that Maria thought about it, it was time for her to go to class. However there was the small temptation to test herself, maybe to infiltrate the class of Lisa so she can learn even more.

>Continue Maria’s Stalking through class
>No, Maria needs to head to class to keep face and relationships.
>Another option?
>>
We do have a loyal maid, thinking on it. Perhaps she could ask around the servants to get a better idea of Lisa's personality and situation?
>>
>>4367985
>No, Maria needs to head to class to keep face and relationships.
>>
>>4367985
>No, Maria needs to head to class to keep face and relationships.
We need to get in contact with Albert and maybe Mateo. Everyone and their mother would have probably heard about our altercation with Ford and we gotta give our side of the story.
>>
>>4367985
>>No, Maria needs to head to class to keep face and relationships.
>>
>>4367985
>No, Maria needs to head to class to keep face and relationships.
That pic tough
>>
>>4367985
>Get to class.
We need to be organized for whatever this schoolyard war we've started entails. We can skip class some other time to make Ford think we're doing something nefarious.
>>
>>4367985
>Continue Maria’s Stalking through class
>>
>>4367985
>No, Maria needs to head to class to keep face and relationships.
>>
>>4367985
>>No, Maria needs to head to class to keep face and relationships.
>>
>>4367985
>No, Maria needs to head to class to keep face and relationships.
>>
>>4367985
>No, Maria needs to head to class to keep face and relationships.
>>
No, Maria needed to go to class. There are times in which she could not appear, maybe to mess with some heads, but today would not be one of them.

So with that thought in mind Maria left for her own direction towards the class on war. As per usual, Maria did modestly well in it. The only issue was that ethical standards were not really something Maria wanted to pay much attention to. Chances are she will only be fighting wars against Heretics, and as such were they truly needed for her?

Such a thought was entertained during the modestly boring class, but was disposed of when Maria finally arrived in her class on faith. Taking her seat next to Albert, Maria noticed at the corner of her eye the Heroine Chloe was no where near her. Instead, the girl placed herself next to the window because of course she would be there.

“Oh, Maria, I have not seen you since yesterday!” Albert exclaimed with wide eyes, “What happened? Everyone has been asking about it.”

“So what happened has not gotten out?”

“Well… no. Did it have something to do with the First Prince?”

[Intrigue Success]

Maria looked around for a moment, easily noticing a number of ears pointed towards her. It seemed that everyone was starving for information. Honestly Maria did not know why it hadn't gotten out yet, but here she was.

Maybe it was because the situation was embarrassing for those involved? Maybe they were waiting to see what Maria did first, as a kind of self incrimination. What she did was of course wrong, but so was deflaming someone behind their back.

Oh what to do, that was simply the thought Maria had.

>Simply tell the truth, as later on Ford nor Waltz will be able to tell Maria she was wrong.
>Embellish the truth, say acts that Ford commit that were much harsher than he committed
>Maria will tell Albert later, as now is not the right situation to start a rumor
>>
>>4368365
>Maria will tell Albert later, as now is not the right situation to start a rumor
We make ourselves look like we don't want to make a big deal of it, so when they start their rumor we can hold even more high-ground.
>>
>>4368365
>Simply tell the truth, as later on Ford nor Waltz will be able to tell Maria she was wrong.
>>
>>4368365
>Maria will tell Albert later, as now is not the right situation to start a rumor
>>
>>4368365
>Maria will tell Albert later, as now is not the right situation to start a rumor

>>4368372
Anon has the right idea.

Besides if anything we should be playing down what had happened - we won't give any ammo to the 'manipulative bitch' angle that Ford is probably going to take, and iit'll look like Ford's the aggressor in this situation rather than us if he starts something first.

Plus we really shouldn't be airing our dirty laundry to the masses.
>>
>>4368365
>Embellish the truth, say acts that Ford commit that were much harsher than he committed

I think people are overthinking this. People will create a rumor, sure, but gossiping people don't give a fuck about who holds the high moral ground. Trying to play this down can easily end with us being seen as reacting overly harsh and brutal to some small slight.
>>
>>4368415
Basically shape the public perception as early as possible, because people loathe having to admit they were wrong. So once they believe our story they won't be easily convinced that it is wrong, because that would mean they made a mistake.
>>
>>4368365
>Simply tell the truth, as later on Ford nor Waltz will be able to tell Maria she was wrong.
>>
>>4368365
>Give only a tiny morsel of information to get things rolling. Embellishing will do us no good if it's caught and airing our laundry will just encourage Chloe to start annoyingly interfering since she'll wrongly blame herself.

Eg Ford is a twat who can't remember people are actually human instead of whatever deranged caricature he makes up in his mind. Since Ford is too stubborn to actually realize he was wrong it lets him dig himself further into the mess he made when everyone on campus realizes he's a lunatic chasing at imaginary shadows.

>Maria will tell Albert later, as now is not the right situation to start a rumor
>>
>>4368365
>>Simply tell the truth, as later on Ford nor Waltz will be able to tell Maria she was wrong.
>>
>>4368619
So poke that Ford implied we would kill other nobles of the church?
It isn't inaccurate. And it can be pointed at as why we were mad if they refute. He did imply we would kill chloe.
>>
>>4368780
That can work. The idea is that if we lay out the truth, people (might) think we are embellishing or using hyperbole and give Ford the benefit of the doubt. If they hear only a tidbit (of the real thing) and get to speculate, then he gets run into the ground by people's imagination and the gossip travels further than if people knew everything from the get go. It also adds an extra layer of irony in that he gets to experience what he was doing to us if the rumours slander him.
>>
Start the rumors, with truth!
>>4368383
>>4368441
>>4368770

Nah, let them make the first move
>>4368372
>>4368401

Embellish truth
>>4368415
>>
>>4368398
>>4368816
You forgot this bro
>>
>>4368830
Sorry about that, but that would result in a tie. If most had a chance, it looks like they would lean towards atleast starting the rumor.
>>
>>4368832
Sounds like that makes me a tiebreaker, and while i'd prefer to only tell a little, if i had to pick between saying something and not saying something. Id say something since Ford lost his right to us going easy on him when given it freely.
>>
Maria chewed on her thoughts for a moment, thinking upon herself for a moment. When things come down to it, the thinking of Ford is quite the opposite of people in this day an age, belonging more to the modern day really. Such a stark contrast of thoughts however is surely to make friction.

“That, oh I simply found out what Ford thinks of me.” Maria answered with a smile.

“Thinks of you? Uh, well how bad was it?” Albert asked with a shaky smile upon himself.

“Hmm, well he seemed to have given Chloe the wrong idea when it comes to me.” Maria said with a simple laugh, “He thought I was going to eat her.”

“Eat?”

“Maim, kill, all are the same in context.” Maria answered with a wave of the hand, “I simply had to burst into their room and give the man a piece of my mind.”

“Yeah I can see why you were angry.”

“Indeed, being called a murderer would do that to anyone. Simply it was what happened to me though.”

Looking around Maria noted many of the people already zoning out, happy with their fill. Hopefully this will paint him as someone who spreads slander and one who overreacts. Though Maria also wondered if people might also accept the idea of her being a killer as fact, but that would be the minority.

“Excuse me, Miss Regnia, but can I ask you to not be saying things like that?” Maria should have expected it, but next to her desk was a rather annoyed Chloe.

“Come now, I am simply talking to a friend here. It is nothing that you should worry about.”

“You are hurting someone who helped me though.” Chloe claimed with what could amount to a pout.

It seems Maria was not able to sneak this from under the Heroine’s nose. Indeed it was truth, that Chloe could not use against her, but what of the ethical whims of a possible Saint. Though Maria should keep her cool, it seems just being near the girl was starting to rub Maria the wrong way.

>Tell her to shoo, Maria will not entertain her today
>Explain what he did was wrong, not for Chloe but for the class
>Move to mocking Chloe, as she was the one who listened to such an idiot
>>
>>4368842
>Explain what he did was wrong, not for Chloe but for the class
>>
>>4368842
>Explain what he did was wrong, not for Chloe but for the class
"But don't you think that what he did was wrong, tough ? He hurt me and I that's not nice"
>>
>>4368842
>Explain what he did was wrong, not for Chloe but for the class
>>
>>4368842
>I have told nothing but the truth. If telling the truth about what he has said hurts him, then he has done it to himself. Turn back to Alfred.
If she tries to keep talking
>Explain what he did wrong, not for Chloe but for the class. Chloe either has harem goggles preventing her from thinking what we said is true or is airheaded enough to have not thought about what Ford did properly yet.Barring isekai/etc shenanigans.

Very tempted to point out that we helped her when she went through the very gate. We trust that you shall admonish Ford for speaking ill of us when you next meet him?Feels like it would backfire by making Chloe actually think of us as (somewhat) friendly or tsundere.
>>
>>4368842
>Explain what he did was wrong, not for Chloe but for the class
>>
>>4368842
>Explain what he did was wrong, not for Chloe but for the class
I'm only telling the truth. As for him helping you, the first question he had when I confronted him was if you were dead yet. He seemed to have planned for your death, so I would call that more using a pawn.
>>
>>4368842
>Tell her to shoo, Maria will not entertain her today
>>
>>4368842
>Explain what he did was wrong, not for Chloe but for the class
>>
>>4368872
Supporting
>>
>>4368842
>>4368872
Support, I like the bit about reminding her that we helped her as well too.
>>
>>4368842
I never been so pissed about wishy washy protagonist.
>>
>>4369067
To me she reads like an absolute airhead, I've read far more offensive protagonists than Chloe before, so on my basis of personal experience I'll conclude she isn't that bad. Just yet.
>>
>>4368842
>Explain what he did was wrong, not for Chloe but for the class
>>
>>4368872
Support.
>>
>>4368842
We could ask if she's willing to let us explain why it's bad and to wait until we're done explaining.
Simply put that just because someone helped you does not mean they're necessarily good or acting in your own interests.
>>
Explain for all to see
>>4368849
>>4368866
>>4368867
>>4368872
>>4368874
>>4368892
>>4368957
>>4369089

Shoo girl
>>4368933
>>
“Tsk, do you not realize what he did was wrong.” Maria called back with a little burning in her throat, “I have been made out as something I am not, as such it is horribly egregious to me.”

“It was nothing that bad!” Chloe called out with a small whimper, “He explained that you were a person who fought others. That's what I should apologize for before you get angry about it.”

“I was already angry about it.” Maria answered back with quick chirp.

“And I am sorry about that. I truly am Miss Regnia.” She answered back sincerely like the Heroine she is, “But please do not harm him because of my ignorance.”

“Tsk, it was because of that ignorance that we got in this situation.” Maria mumbled as she seemed to get more and more angry, “Chloe, I ask that you from here onwards keep in mind that I have tried to help you too. You are the one who caused this to happen in the first place!”

The little snap in the end seemed to stop it, as all the steam that was fueling Chloe was drained in an instant. Though it was less guilt that Maria saw but something much more….

Fear, the same kind she has seen in the eyes of Heretics right before their deaths by fire.

And like that the girl quickly took a few steps backwards before finally leaving to return to her chair. At least that shut the girl up, and it meant her winning of the verbal debate. Who knows, maybe the budala will figure out she’s the root of all these issues.

“She’s… a little off.” Albert mentioned with a small perplexment to himself.

“You have just figured it out?” Maria soon shook her head with a sigh, “Sorry, it’s just aggravating just being near the budala.”

“Well, take it easy then.” Albert said before getting his pencil out to begin the day’s lesson.

The lesson had come with a quick education on the ideas of rulership. Examples of being a ruler should be to service to man, their family, or to the Lord. Honestly Maria was a little surprised that they were teaching this in the Academy, of course there was an angel the church could exploit. Simply put, all men of the Lord’s lands are in service to just him; thus serving either family or man shall support his cause.

Such is the reason he allows man to have free will, Maria mused.

With that class was coming to an end, everyone starting to pack their things to head to whatever activities they were up to.
>Go stalk Lisa a little bit more
>Hang out with Albert and co.
>Go see the Gossip Girls,
>>
>>4369840
>He explained that you were a person who fought others
Chloe making lies? Plenty of nobles have fought others. I'm more surprised we didn't jump on that. We should just have had her say exactly what she was told.

>But please do not harm him because of my ignorance
Should make it clear we do not intend to harm him. All we want is a retraction and public apology for his claim. If anything, we want Ford's crass opinion of us to the open, so people can see he's a paranoid freak with a veneer of righteousness. Any Noble with a brain would be able to tell based specifically on what he told Chloe. In fact the fact we didn't clear that her ignorance is irrelevant to what he did is no bueno.

>Chloe, I ask that you from here onwards keep in mind that I have tried to help you too. You are the one who caused this to happen in the first place!
Really wish we could've told her to be less ignorant. Spend more time studying how nobility works, and you'll hurt less people. It's ez pz and ideally would turn us from a direct antagonist to a foil.

Wish Maria was a little sharper on that. Welp
>>Hang out with Albert and co.
We've done enough gossip spreading. To keep at it would be to come of as if we were on the active attack. Best to start consolidating people we can trust to some extent.
>>
>>4369840
>Hang out with Albert and co.
>>
>>4369840
>Hang out with Albert and co.
>>
>>4369840
>Hang out with Albert and co.
>>
>>4369840
>Go stalk Lisa a little bit more
>>
>>4369840
>Go stalk Lisa a little bit more
>>
>>4369840
>Hang out with Albert and co.
>>
>>4369840
>Go stalk Lisa a little bit more
>>
>>4369840
>Hang out with Albert and co.
>>
>>4369840
>Hang out with Albert and co.
>>
>>4369840
>>Hang out with Albert and co.
>>
>>4369840
>“But please do not harm him because of my ignorance.”
Chloe looks to be jumping to conclusions already. Sounds like she's not willing to accept that he can be an asshat while also being "nice" to her. Chloe is really getting to us. We keep on dragging her back into everything out of anger.


>Hang out with Albert and co.

The company part of this makes me think the other prince's faction might be there too, so I think it's best to be around as a warning if they start making plans on how to use us. The gossip girls could also use a little more time to hear about how everyone's reacting to the news so that we get a better infodump from them. We can't neglect them too much. My personal plan is to make Ford alienate himself, not make ourselves get cut off from our friends because we're too busy being vengeful.
>>
Pursue the Dove
>>4370048
>>4370058
>>4370083

Hanging out is fine enough
>>4369919
>>4369926
>>4369966
>>4370071
>>4370097
>>4370173
>>4370189
>>4370199

Going to check with the Second Prince's Faction it looks like!
>>
“Well, I will see you.” Albert said while making himself in the direction of the Library. However as he took a few steps his eyes widened slightly as he noticed Maria walking next to him, “Uh, Maria where are you going?”

“Hmm, with you.” Maria answered back with an average smile.

“With me, why would, uh-”

“What can I not hang out with you?” Maria asked with it now becoming a devious smile.

“I, uh, yeah your right…” He admitted with a little chuckle, “You normally have your own things though.”

“Today is different.” She answered as they crossed into the next part of the building.

Since it was the end of general classes things were busy as they could be. People were going to clubs or Fraternities, or opting to go home on this Thursday night. However in the end their paths were not nearly as jammed as others, so the two were able to get into the study room.

What they came into was a pair of men, one diligently working at his studies while the other was lounging on a sofa looking quite exhausted. The atmosphere was more melancholy than Maria would have wanted it, which was quite the objective.

“Hmm, oh hey Albert.” The resting Prince said with a lazy wave of his hand before noticing the other, “oh, you brought Maria here. nice to see you again.”

“Same here, though you sure a vampire hasn’t been drinking your blood. You look like all your youthful spirit was taken from you.”

“yeah yeah.”

With a little bit of curiosity about herself Maria turned towards Mateo, “What happened? Normally I would get a retort not acceptance.”

“We met her Brother earlier.” he answered dryly while turning to face them, “You know, I had heard the Prince was getting more active but what we saw a little while ago was something I never thought I would see.”

“What, that he actually speaks coherently?” Maria joked.

“Worse, he talked passionately about something.”

Maria herself felt her eyes widen a good bit, “Well that seems quite unusual, but not enough to throw in the towel like this.”

“No, that was because he kept us for an entire hour about the Chloe girl.” Mateo shook his head in resignation, “Though the way things are going I am not liking the future.”

>Get out of Mateo what he thinks this bad future is.
>See if Maria can entertain them with other topics, like her being Albert’s date.
>Maybe a fine glass of tea would suit them fine
>>
>>4370352
>Maybe a fine glass of tea would suit them fine
>>
>>4370352
>Get out of Mateo what he thinks this bad future is.
>>
>>4370352
>>Maybe a fine glass of tea would suit them fine

Nothing goes wrong with tea
>>
>>4370352
>Maybe a fine glass of tea would suit them fine
We have much to talk, so how about a treat
>>
>>4370352
>Maybe a fine glass of tea would suit them fine
Get them comfortable before we launch into a gossip session.

I'm really curious to what QM was planning to do if we went down Lucien's route, considering Chloe is homing in on him like a heat seeking missle.

Also Albert's cute. We really need to spend more time with him rather than running off after INTRIGUE all the time. (Maybe we could get his help with the love triangle situation...? Mix in bonding *with* intrigue)
>>
>>4370454
>Mix bonding with intrigue
>tfw your crush doesn't send you secret love letters under your dorm room and being obvious in her advances
>>
>>4370352
>Get out of Mateo what he thinks this bad future is.
>I didn't expect you to be so protective of your brother's love life.
>Find a way to segway into us being Albert's date. We haven't had a chance to brag about it yet.
>>
Some fine tea should calm them down
>>4370355
>>4370362
>>4370369
>>4370454

Just a simple talk
>>4370357
>>4370508
>>
Seeing as things were not going to get much better in this room, Maria simply gave a sigh while walking to a small cabinet to the side of the room. Searching about it for a moment, she noticed a small tea pot that looked quite out of the ordinary. Slowly removing it, Maria noted how it was made of a black metal instead of porcelain.

Noting how it seemed to not be covered in rust, Maria decided on using it. Yes there were precious ones made of porcelain with golden threads layed upon it, but Maria just felt better using this one.

With that item in hand Maria quickly got out a bunsen burner, water, and a few leaves labeled ‘Fruity’.

“Do you need any help there Maria?” Albert called out.

“No, I have this quite well. I atleast know how to make tea.” Maria answered while puring her creation into some cups, “There we go.”

With that Maria handed around a cup to everyone, gaining a rather perplexed look from Elric, “What are you trying to do here?”

“Make tea, is there a problem that I used your supplies.”

A little skeptical he took a sip before his eyes widened, “Did you use my Fruit Leaves?”

“I did.”

“Do you know how hard those are to get?”

“Well hoarding them is not going to do you any good.” Maria answered with a smile, “If you do that the economy is not going to budge as none of that sweet royal money gets around.”

“You have been hanging out with Albert too much.” The Prince said annoyingly while taking a sip of his cup.

“Please do not drag me into this.” The man said with a sigh, “Though if you do want some more I can see about getting some imported.”

“And how much is that going to be?”

“Well, the price is going down. The Miaphate has finally finished its Civil War and is currently rebuilding.”

“Really now? I don’t know if I should say good because my stock will be refilled sooner or that the Free States will be threatened again.” Elric said with an unusual answer. Well, an unusual one to Maria.

>Talk about Elric’s situation with his Brother, now that he’s no longer a corpse
>An interesting topic has come up, learn about the Empire’s view on the Miaphate.
>Try and bring them into the fold on Maria’s little love triangle
>>
>>4370850
>Talk about Elric’s situation with his Brother, now that he’s no longer a corpse
>>
>>4370850
>Talk about Elric’s situation with his Brother, now that he’s no longer a corpse
>>
>>4370850
>An interesting topic has come up, learn about the Empire’s view on the Miaphate.

We should learn about this if we do ever intend to go down the Solomon route.
>>
>>4370850
>An interesting topic has come up, learn about the Empire’s view on the Miaphate.
>>
>>4370850
>An interesting topic has come up, learn about the Empire’s view on the Miaphate.
>>
>>4370850
>>An interesting topic has come up, learn about the Empire’s view on the Miaphate.
>>
>>4370850
>An interesting topic has come up, learn about the Empire’s view on the Miaphate.
>>
>>4370850
>Talk about Elric’s situation with his Brother, now that he’s no longer a corpse
>>
>>4370850
>An interesting topic has come up, learn about the Empire’s view on the Miaphate.
>>
>>4370850
>Talk about Elric’s situation with his Brother, now that he’s no longer a corpse

We should call second prince an silly goose and point out his brother being enthrall with Chloe is great boon for him.

What other major players will do? Who will they support? When they here first prince is not only planning to marry some peasant girl but will listen to her every call and so on.

Hell you can even convince first prince now to abdicate and give you his position.

"Oh dear brother I support you two so much! But realm will not like this! They will stand against you. Let me take your place as leader so you two can lead peaceful life." Or some such

"Let him do some work like improving state of health or reform like my Albert here training to implement. He seems to be interested in things like that"
>>
>>4370850
>>Talk about Elric’s situation with his Brother, now that he’s no longer a corpse
>>
>>4370850
>Talk about Elric’s situation with his Brother, now that he’s no longer a corpse
The miaphate stuff is interesting, but we can get info on that any time. Let's talk about the Chloe Lucien situation while the events are still fresh
>>
>>4370850
>Talk about Elric’s situation with his Brother, now that he’s no longer a corpse
Definitely gotta drag that info out about the Caliphate before we leave. Since we're part of a fiefdom bordering it the info's importance can be a matter of life and death if we hit some sort of jackpot.
>>
>>4370850
>Talk about Elric’s situation with his Brother, now that he’s no longer a corpse
>>
Of the Resurrected Prince
>>4370855
>>4370855
>>4370856
>>4371093
>>4371247
>>4371293
>>4371307
>>4371342

The Miaphate
>>4370866
>>4370879
>>4370911
>>4370921
>>4370936
>>4371133

Of Princes and those who control.
>>
“Well, atleast commerce will be a little easier.” Albert claimed grabbing at the good part at the very least.

“So now that you all have regained your sanity atleast for a little while,” Maria began with a somber tone, “Why if I may ask is Lucien gaining an ounce of sanity not enough?”

Elric gave a long mellowed sigh, “Well that’s because my chances of becoming Emperor have just gone way down.”

“And if I may ask, why?”

“Well I was thinking I had a chance if my brother either advocated for me or if I could convince enough people that having a lifeless Emperor was not the greatest idea.” Elric mentioned as if it was a matter of fact.

“Would whats happening not just better your case? Surely the man being pulled by the heart would be way too much risk than someone who still has their sanity.” Maria countered with a sound claim.

“Hmph, maybe you have not heard before but my brother’s attitude was not by accident.” Elric answered back with a wave of the hand, “He was raised to listen to whoever had his ear and obey them. He was meant to be the perfect puppet for the Nobility to have on the throne.”

“That seems quite ridiculous to have when your father is on the throne.”

“Tsk, if he really had a choice he would. However Father was deeply in debt at the time and this was seen as a way to fix his dues. Though I feel things would have ended up like this regardless, Lucien simply got the worse of our bloods I admit.”

Maria was about to say something back, but began to think to herself about what Elric said. From all Maria gathered the Emperorship was infact an elected position that was made by the Elector Counts. While his family has served the title for a long time, it did not mean upstarts would not try and assume the position if enough resources were available. Thus a debt would be struck to tell off the usurper.

There was also the fact that the Elector Counts made Lucien who he is, a complete yes man who would not hesitate to help even the smallest of realm. Indeed, the value of having such a man on the throne was probably worth more money than anything Elric could get onhand.

>Let him wallow in defeat, Maria has no need for him if this is the case
>Simply tell him to try, if nothing else than to not bring shame upon himself for giving up
>Tell him he is being a lazy idiot who is worth nothing more than the dirt on Maria’s shoe
>Maybe there is another method to prove himself, gaining his own land and title.
>>
>>4371820
>Maybe there is another method to prove himself, gaining his own land and title.
>>
>>4371820
>>Maybe there is another method to prove himself, gaining his own land and title.
>>
>>4371820
>Simply tell him to try, if nothing else than to not bring shame upon himself for giving up
>>
>>4371820
>Maybe there is another method to prove himself, gaining his own land and title.
It's not the heir but having the good favour of the second son might stand us well in the future.

Plus heirs can always kick the bucket...
>>
>>4371820
>Simply tell him to try, if nothing else than to not bring shame upon himself for giving up.
>>
>>4371820
>Simply tell him to try, if nothing else than to not bring shame upon himself for giving up
>>
>>4371820
>Simply tell him to try, if nothing else than to not bring shame upon himself for giving up
Getting his own land is a fallback plan.
>>
Prove oneself by conquest
>>4371846
>>4371873
>>4371910


Come on, don't give up!
>>4371882
>>4371918
>>4372001
>>4372092

Did an error, now I am a little sad but will run with this. damn you last minute vote!!!
>>
>>4371820
>Maybe there is another method to prove himself, gaining his own land and title
>>
>>4372097
...

FUCK IT I WANT THIS. NO MORE VOTES
>>
>>4372098
Hehe. No problem QM.
>>
>>4371820
Noo. I'm too late.
I was going to point out that technically all he needs to stop the brother from being a puppet is have a competent wife. Aka some poor sap has to teach Chloe how to discern the difference between helping and being taken advantage of. As the wife she's the most able to veto any manipulation and he is madly in love with her even if it's just another puppetmaster.
>>
“Tsk, so the game was already rigged at the very start.” Maria announced with a curse to herself.

“Yup, that’s been my life. I atleast want something in my life, you know, so I’m not just some fucking useless bastard Prince who could not beat his brain dead brother.” Elric announced with a small amount fire in his voice.

It seemed that while the Prince was being forced to call off his little attempts at Kingship, there was a little fire in his belly. A fire that Maria would not help but admit she was both intrigued by and could admire. Hell, she was already seeing him as an ally, this boy might be someone who could give her that little bit of an edge.

“You know, there might be another way for you to me looked highly upon by those of the Empire.” Maria mentioned with a small smile curling upon her face, “To make your name worth more than just a simple Prince but instead a great conqueror.”

“...” Elric all but went silent upon hearing Maria’s words, though only for a moment, “What do you mean?”

“Fufufu, if one was to gain the might and prestige greater than his foe, general opinion follows. Gaining men under your name and a title with your own blood and sweat would place you leagues above a simply reanimated corpse.”

“... That is tempting.” Elric said with his head now raised, “But what lands are there to conquer? I have not claims to my name except for the Empire itself and my Father’s fiefdoms.”

“You do not, but I have one to which I have been working on.” Maria felt like something was finally going her way after days of anguish, “The Despot of Holand, the remnants of an old pegan empire who used to rule the east. My mother was of their royal family, so upon her death I inherited her claim as birthright.”

“So you will get their throne, what about me?”

“A valid question.” Maria took a nice taste of her tea, “Not all of it would be mine, as I need to pay my allies with something. MaKain is poor so not gold and we do not have any trade routes to speak of. So, I suggest we organize a partitioning of Holand.”

He was growing a little smile before going back to skeptical, “Will we be alone?”

“I personally have the support of the Tectonic Knights, and I am sure they wish to join up with the Lord’s Lands themselves.” Maria announced, “Though…”


What are they going to do about the Army Elric shall bring?

>He shall take loans, the money can easily be repaid through selling his conquered lands through redistribution
>Elric shall look for his supporters, Nobles who don’t mind supporting a Young ambitious man
>Suggest he looks into joining the Tectonic Order, as with his blood and Maria's support Elric will get far in their ranks.
>>
There is always other, since this is quite the situation thats come up.
>>
>>4372124
>Suggest he looks into joining the Tectonic Order, as with his blood and Maria's support Elric will get far in their ranks.
If in doubt, start a crusade. Sure you may never hit Jerusalem but Constantinople is close enough!
>>
>>4372124
What are the obligations of joining the Tectonic order? I feel like Elric shouldn't be going in with both feet in as this might be a big risk, but he could temporarily join them under the guise of training from the ground up to get their respect/comradery before he assumes a high rank on the campaign. It's not uncommon for princes to have to command some sort of army for training or basic prestige even if it's a milk run after all. The difference is that it'll be a real war instead of him relegated to the safest spot on a skirmish.
mercenaries are a bad idea imo if we're outfitting them with our new +whatever serrating since the mercs might want to run off with the shiny new weapons, let word spread, or sell them on the black market.
>>
I feel like we've also forgotten that Chloe is a Saintess. Once she starts busting out miracles left and right, Elric is gonna need to be Alexander the Conqueror to compete with that.

Elric needs to learn this quick since it's gonna demoralize the shit out of him and Chloe is unsuited for being on the battlefield where she can be tactically used to try and get some of that prestige to himself. Unless we inadvertently just setup the game having a love triangle scenario where Elric tries to seduce her for her future prestige?
>>
>>4372124
>Elric shall look for his supporters, Nobles who don’t mind supporting a Young ambitious man
>>
>>4372124
>Elric shall look for his supporters, Nobles who don’t mind supporting a Young ambitious man
Begin proving the ones who already support him that they’re doing the right choice all the while building future prestige
>>
>>4372124
>Elric shall look for his supporters, Nobles who don’t mind supporting a Young ambitious man
Honestly this will give us a good idea of which, if any, factions can be relied on to give him their aid. Plus he shouldn't commit to the Knights before we find out exactly what that will entail.

Inb4 we start a civil war by getting all the nobles unhappy with the current regime to rally around Elric.
>>
>>4372124
>Elric shall look for his supporters, Nobles who don’t mind supporting a Young ambitious man
>>
>>4372124
>Elric shall look for his supporters, Nobles who don’t mind supporting a Young ambitious man
>>
>>4372124
>Elric shall look for his supporters, Nobles who don’t mind supporting a Young ambitious man
>>
>>4372124
>Elric shall look for his supporters, Nobles who don’t mind supporting a Young ambitious man

Point out that whoever stays loyal to him despite how the First Prince's revival will be among his most loyal and staunch followers. In fact, its a marvelous way to filter them out. So he shouldn't be too upset about it. Its actually doing him a huge favor in the long run.
>>
>>4372161
Chloe is a Saintesss of Peace while Maria is a saintess of War. You would be right if Maria wasn't willing to lend her support to him. He would be truly fucked. However to properly earn the support of also Maria's followers he needs to prove himself in battle and in commanding wars. Otherwise, Maria's support would only go so far. As to keep in mind only the war hungry church followers will support Maria. While the peace lovers will support Chloe. If it wasn't for Maria the war crowd among the Church would be completely suppressed until Chloe dies. Instead, they'll be forced to rally around Maria in order to counter Chloe's influence.

So far nobody knows Chloe is a saintess candidate and only some within the Church are aware of Maria's status as Saintess candidate. The Church is aware however that Maria is preparing herself as a Saintess of War as she told them. Currently, the peace lovers are unaware that they have their own saintess candidate and are probably rather worried. If Elric chooses the War route to prove himself then he has no choice but to align himself with Maria because Chloe will never go for it. Civil war is possible if he pushes for the Throne with the backing of his war hungry new allies. Ultimately this comes down to the fact that there are two saintess candidates to fight over in order to gain their support. Hence the changing dynamic with the princes as they adjust unaware of what is actually happening.
>>
>>4372480
That's even worse since
Our Kingslayer attribute might come into play and be a danger to the first prince while we also automatically lose vs Chloe.

In this case it would probably be something like her gaining the hearts of the religious peasants/nobles while the first prince also has the support of anyone who wants to manipulate him by default. Chloe's love interest prince becoming the king in the story ending also seems fairly standard so we're really in a bind here imo unless we flip tables, start love triangles and whatever else to get outside the box in the future.
It might be possible to convince him that being king wastes away lovey dovey time, so he should get a career that lets him be more laid back in life, but that requires getting past Ford and the rest of the faction to point that out.


What we really need is a big enemy to unite against on the war route if we want to match the double whammy Chloe and puppets bring but we kinda neutralized the traditional one by seducing it's heir. Maybe mongol hordes or Pakistani/Indian armies might ride out for us to rally against in the future? Aztecs landing would probably be too far out there. An invasion to stop tends to bring everyone together.


Or we really ham it up and do USA style "peacekeeping" where we bamboozle em with 20th-21st century doubletalk and propaganda techniques. I personally think that's going too far.
>>4372462
Mostly, but it also brings out corrupt/corpulent traditionalists angry at the relative loss of power. Those guys will be the ones to watch out for since their influence from built up area/bloodlines over the centuries gives them political power to play both sides and still come out ok. Eg You can't just ignore Texas.
>>
Tectonic Order
>>4372130

Support of the Nobles
>>4372184
>>4372189
>>4372190
>>4372207
>>4372397
>>4372441
>>4372462

Support of the Nobles I guess.
>>
>>4372519
Being a saintess of War is very hard especiall in peacetime. Unless we are starved in resources, we could go to every merchant and noble with military background to get every support we can. It would involve promises, prestige and fame. Unless we slowly corrupt Chloe into something. (e.g. gambling, prostitution, hedonism, gluttony, etc.)
>>
“Hmm, you do have supporters in the empire, right?” Maria asked the Prince with a raised brow.

“Yeah I do, mostly from lower counts and most of my relatives.” Elric answered back with a defined point.

“It might be hard for you, but why not ask them to help form an army at your command. It might not be many men for the battlefield, but I am sure a few thousand men could help turn the battle clearly into our favor.” Maria answered with a small smirk.

Elric seemed to think to himself long and hard, “I am going to need to ask around. I can’t pledge so many men’s lives if I do not even have their word.”

“Indeed that is a thought, a valid one infact.” Maria soon began to run thought through her head a little more, “You do however still have the ability to help push my plans along. The Prince of Holand attends this school, and is getting into a small tussle over a Countess who lives in the neighboring duchy within Austin.”

Such words drew the narrowing eyes of Elric, “So he is trying to steal a piece of my realm for himself?”

“I do not wish to incriminate someone who might simply be in love,” Maria said while twirling the last of her tea, “But yes, that would be a likely case besides true love.”

“...” Elric seemed to think a little more before finally he said the words Maria has been waiting to hear, “Alright, I will help you in whatever way I can. Honestly, what else am I going to do with my life without gaining the Kingship.”

With those words said by Elric, Maria finally took a seat on the sofa next to Albert. During their entire conversation he had been keeping quite, but Maria could tell he was keeping up. It seemed soon enough his eyes were widening in realization as if something finally struck him, and they were straight at Maria.

Yes, Albert, things were coming together. The Threads that make Maria’s life were nicely knitting themselves together in a fabulous knot.

>Maria shall personally investigate the Lisa girl here tomorrow
>Melody shall do the work, while Maria catches up with the Gossip girls.
>Take a little time out of Maria’s day to bully Chloe, because fuck Chloe
>>
>>4372595
>Maria shall personally investigate the Lisa girl here tomorrow
What purpose does bullying Chloe serve that it would be a choice at all I wonder.
>>
>>4372595
>Maria shall personally investigate the Lisa girl here tomorrow
>>
>>4372595
We might be freaking Albert out a bit.
I don't think the others know about our shit with Ford really. Should we disclose to some extent? Give some room so we aren't coming off like it's a partisian thing?
>Melody shall do the work, while Maria catches up with the Gossip girls.

also implying ">Take a little time out of Maria’s day to bully Chloe, because fuck Chloe"
Why would we Maria even spend the time if it was of no benefit. We aren't one to harm others just to feel better about ourselves. We got plans.
>>
>>4372595
>Maria shall personally investigate the Lisa girl here tomorrow
>>
>>4372531
Peacetime where mankind hasn't been at war since the start of civilization doesn't even add up to 100 years. There will always be a war or a preparation for a war somewhere and we have most of europe to run around looking for it if we get into the merchant business. Chloe (hopefully) stops being an issue once we graduate as our spheres of influence can just naturally avoid each other)

>>4372599
>>4372604
I think it reflects our natural dislike of her influencing our mindset despite how bad an idea that is from what we outright know about how such a thing ends? It's actually rather strange since as a former player of this game, we should naturally be more open to her existence a little out of nostalgia.
>>4372595
>Melody shall do the work, while Maria catches up with the Gossip girls.
Caution her to not let herself be blinded by her vivid romantic imagination.
>>
>>4372595
>Melody shall do the work, while Maria catches up with the Gossip girls.
>>
>>4372595
>>Melody shall do the work, while Maria catches up with the Gossip girls.
>>
>>4372595
>Melody shall do the work, while Maria catches up with the Gossip girls.
>>
>>4372595
>Melody shall do the work, while Maria catches up with the Gossip girls.
Since we're the center of gossip ourselves, best to act like it's business as usual.

Also we really need to interrogate Elizabeth more about the relationship between Lisa and her cousin.
>>
>>4372595
>>Melody shall do the work, while Maria catches up with the Gossip girls.
>>
Maria shall investigate herself!!
>>4372599
>>4372600
>>4372610

Let the Maid do her work
>>4372604
>>4372622
>>4372669
>>4372741
>>4372805
>>4372894
>>4373053

Well it was leaning one way when I was going to sleep, and then changed to the other.
>>
The sun was high in the sky upon this Friday lunch. With the temperature being on the slight cold before Winter truly began everyone was out enjoying the sun’s rays. Indeed it was the perfect day out for some tea, which is how Maria decidedly spent her time as she took a sip of her cup.

“So Maria, I heard you got into a fight with the Marshal’s Son. Is that true!?” Were the first words Stacy asked with a look full of interest.

“Indeed it is, though I can only hope that whatever you heard was true.”

“Oh I am sure it is. Like how you cracked their door in half when you came into the room.”

“I only broke the door handle.”

“How you yelled at the man so hard that he started to cry.”

“No…”

“Well, uh, did you atleast slap him?”

Maria finally gave up with a huff, “Why are the stories getting so brutal. I only yelled at the man, not physically injure him.”

“Well didn’t he talk about how you like to bath in the blood of virgins to keep your skin so elegantly.”

“By the Lord that is quite the insualt.” Maria called out with a rather exemplar brow raised, “If that is what happened, I can see why people think I did the other things.”

This time it was Erica who spoke, “Well Maria, you are known to be quite the powerful woman, we would have expected you to do something. If I was honest though, what I heard was not nearly that outrageous.”

“Well, I do not know if I should be glad that I am seen in such a strong light or hate it that they remove my womanly charm.” Maria complained, though a smirk never left her face with them.

>Try and curve these rumors before they get even worse
>See if Stacy has any intel on her cousin
>Try and find out the state of Chloe’s affairs
>Surely there are rumors of the resurrected prince about
>>
>>4373336
>Try and curve these rumors before they get even worse
>>
>>4373336
>>Try and find out the state of Chloe’s affairs
>>
>>4373336
>Try and curve these rumors before they get even worse
>>
>>4373336
>Try and curve these rumors before they get even worse
Are these rumors really that bad for us if his insult was interpreted that badly?

We're basically mad about him thinking we're crazy for what the church is proud of us for. They aren't normal pagans we killed, they were demon cultists who were killing innocents willingly.
>>
>Is it true that your stomp crack his floor?
>Is it true that your shout broke the glasses around?
>Is it true that you're so mad you could boil water and could cook an egg?
>That your voice is so scary all the animals run 10km aways from the academy?
>That a passing maid terrified so much that she quit her job and never returned?

Man rumors are so shit.
>>
>>4373336
>Try and curve these rumors before they get even worse
>>
>>4373336
>See if Stacy has any intel on her cousin
The more ridiculous the rumor the better for us in the long run.
>>
>>4373336
>Try and curve these rumors before they get even worse
>>
Honestly I'd let the rumor go out of control so we have a casus belli to destroy Ford whenever.

Obviously Maria wouldn't spread that rumor herself, so obviously it's his side that is running embelishment to slander Maria, and all you need is just a glove being thrown at that point
>>
>>4373336
>Try and curve these rumors before they get even worse
>>
>>4373336
>Try and find out the state of Chloe’s affairs
>>
>>4373336
>>Try and find out the state of Chloe’s affairs
I love that the rumors are so outrageous. Makes us have that much more a force to not mess with.
>>
>>4373336
>>Try and find out the state of Chloe’s affairs
I mean, we could try and curb those rumours, but we could also see if Ford accidentally reveals that he thinks we're evil because we saved his (and the prince's) LIVES from demon cultists engaging in ritual sacrifice. Ford doesn't seem to be the type to care about rumours, but he's still immensely hurt politically within the school by the truth when it comes out from his side.
>>
>>4373336
>>4373458
>Try and find out the state of Chloe’s affairs

Alright, I'll change to this.
>>
>>4373336
>Try and curve these rumors before they get even worse
>>
Trying to Curve such ludicrous rumors
>>4373345
>>4373376
>>4373389
>>4373430
>>4373468
>>4373544

What has the Heroine been up too?
>>4373374
>>4373583
>>4373612
>>4373624
>>4373626
>>4373657

Intel on the Cousin
>>4373458

I'mma go for the Heroin, because I will admit the rumors are lackluster. Guess I should not be writing after going 4 hours of clerical work.
>>
>>4373705
>I'mma go for the Heroin
Dang, going for the hard shit QM
>>
>>4373705
>Guess I should not be writing after going 4 hours of clerical work.
Wait a minute, OP a monk confirmed ?
>>
“Well, oh well I cannot do anything more I guess.” Maria answered with a sigh, “Though I worry that if they go too out of hand I might end being a snake haired medusa.”

The two girls who were quite active in gossip simply shrugged to one another, clearly not really caring about the rumors. Of course that would be the case, as they were able to get primary information at who is likely the second most talk about girl on campus. Maria would be the first, but simply put the reality of her world was in her benefit.

However that did change things towards an interesting direction, “So what is the status of miss Budala? I am sure that Chloe girl is up to something right now.”

“You mean the girl who has been staying very close to the First Prince as of recent days?” The venom coming from Erica’s voice was quite pronounced, “She has the first prince around her dirty finger.”

A small grow could be heard out of Tracy, “That upstart peasant is getting too good of a life. I mean, how in the world does she look so good when she came into the Academy in rags! Its unnatural I tell you!”

“I do not like her.” Elizabeth said after a long time of being silent for who knows how long.

Maria felt herself with even more relief as their words reached her ears. Knowing more and more that there were people who were against Chloe was enough to soothe whatever damning thoughts Maria experienced.

“Well, I heard that she was getting a little close to that Holish Prince.” Stacy called out with a frown to herself, “I mean, if she takes the Prince surely she’d help my Cousin but then she’ll have half the Lord’s land under her sway!”

“She’s going after Oskar?” Even hearing it here Maria could not help but feel that was odd. Yeah her memories were foggy, but Oskar was most definitely not a target for capture. It did not make a lick of sense whatsoever!

“That bitch, I hope she burns in hell for this.” Were the words Erica said, which Maria could not agree more with.

>Spend Military class going over what Melody learned of Lisa.
>Go to class as usual, this is not something Maria should be freaking out about
>Other, as I honestly can’t come up with anything more
>>
>>4373739
>Spend Military class going over what Melody learned of Lisa.
Come on its military class, Maria can literally learn nothing more from it. Better use the time productively by checking in with our maid.
>>
>>4373739
>Spend Military class going over what Melody learned of Lisa.
>>
>>4373739
>Spend Military class going over what Melody learned of Lisa.
>>
>>4373739
>>Spend Military class going over what Melody learned of Lisa.
>>
>>4373739
>Spend Military class going over what Melody learned of Lisa.

We might need to warn our friends to back off from anything too extreme with Chloe soon. If they try something with Chloe they're gonna pay a major price and we're gonna get taken down with them by association.
>>
>>4373739
>Spend Military class going over what Melody learned of Lisa.
>>
>>4373739
>Spend Military class going over what Melody learned of Lisa.
>>
I am not going to bother doing a vote count here.
>>
Soon enough everyone was making their ways to class, education being the foundation of why people stay here. However that was not the plan for Maria, and quickly she traveled towards the Servant’s quarters with a purpose. None around her bothered to question her appearance, either because they know not to get involved or they just did not see her.

For Maria, she could feel a sense of Pride about the latter.

Soon enough she came upon her maid who only took a moment to notice her, “Mistress! Why are you were aren't you supposed to be in class!”

“I am not too worried about class since it is simply my military education.” Maria answered back with a firm determination for herself, “I wanted to know if you found anything about Lisa.”

“Her? Yes I watched the girl during lunch. She was not very observant, though that's because she seemed to be struggling with another person.” Melody seemed to think for a moment, “He was a very plain looking man and he was really wanting to talk to her.”

“PLain looking man, that much be Johnson.” Maria said aload without much thought, “Continue.”

“Y-yes. He was being really sticky to her the entire period. It was like watching a herding dog trying to keep the sheep from leaving them. Though I will admit, it did not seem like the girl was against it.”

“Alright alright, then I guess Oskar is winning her affections. Atleast, that would explain a few other things.”

“Yeah I think so too. Though they have agreed to go on a date here tomorrow.”

“Really, he was able to convince her that!?”

“Well, she mentioned something about already making plans, but never mentioned when. Sorry Mistress, but I could not find what the event was as she was tight lipped about it even to Mr. Johnson.”

“No no, thats alright Melody. The only thing I can think of is that she planned a date with the other man. Yes, that would definitely make sense.”

“Really? Someone told me that, but I was not too sure myself.”

“Someone else, what do you mean by that?” Maria’s interest was suddenly taken at the chance of a third character running the show.

“Yes, her, I never got a good look at her face but she was very helpful in my watching of them. The girl claimed to have been doing it for a few days for, uh, research purposes.”

>Since Maria is already skipping class, she might as well stalk Lisa in her last period to find out more information.
>After class, Maria shall track down this mysterious figure.
>Make plans for this Date she is already aware about, Maria needs to make it the best either ever had
>>
>>4374056
>After class, Maria shall track down this mysterious figure.
>>
>>4374056
We haven't planned for our own dance with Albert yet.We should let Ford think we're making evil plans when it's actually us picking out dresses and getting prettied up.
Interfering without knowing what the people themselves want can easily go wrong. Since we don't seem to be bothering with directly talking with people, maybe we need to start having a spy network?
>Track down the mysterious figure
I think it's the old stalker we found earlier and she's researching for her book. If she's doing this well at it then we've got access to our first dedicated spy in a network.
>>
>>4374056
>After class, Maria shall track down this mysterious figure.
Probably Ms. Fien Kers
>>
>>4374056
>After class, Maria shall track down this mysterious figure.
No loose ends!
>>
>>4374056
>Make plans for this Date she is already aware about, Maria needs to make it the best either ever had
>>
>>4374056
>Make plans for this Date she is already aware about, Maria needs to make it the best either ever had
>>
>>4374056
>After class, Maria shall track down this mysterious figure.
>>
>>4374056
>After class, Maria shall track down this mysterious figure.
>>
>>4374056
>After class, Maria shall track down this mysterious figure.

Right, so our endgame here is to get Lisa and Johnson together, so the Oskar doesn't get more power (and land) from a union with Lisa?
>>
>>4374056
>After class, Maria shall track down this mysterious figure.
>>
>>4374056
>>Make plans for this Date she is already aware about, Maria needs to make it the best either ever had

>>4374065
Support
>>
>>4374056
>Make plans for this Date she is already aware about, Maria needs to make it the best either ever had
>>
>>4374056
>Make plans for this Date she is already aware about, Maria needs to make it the best either ever had
>>
Mysterious Figure
>>4374058
>>4374065
>>4374086
>>4374117
>>4374230
>>4374266
>>4374384
>>4374405

Date Infultration
>>4374122
>>4374164
>>4374424
>>4374437
>>4374471

Well, this is a little interesting. Oh well time to see mysterious figure!
>>
“Alright, thank you Melody you have done a lot of work for me.” Maria told the maid with a smile, “I guess I will be seeing this mysterious figure myself quite soon.”

“You are welcome, Mistress, I try my best.” Melody said while giving Maria a courteous bow.

With that Maria went off to her Faith class, the place once again being filled with modest activity. Just as Maria took her seat next to Albert, the man gave him a small smile upon receiving her. As for the Heroine, well Chloe was of course at the far end of the room looking out of the window into the Courtyard.

Indeed she is such a pesky girl, and seeing her just grated on Maria’s nerves. Though Maria also noted how the girl was alone, completely alien to the class itself. It was… interesting to say the least.

“Hey Maria, how has your day been going?” Albert asked with a slightly hushed voice.

“Moderate, though I am still in the steps of learning the situation. Though honestly, it feels as if I am not getting enough information.”

Albert gave a slight nod, “Is that so, sorry I could not be of help there.”

“There is no problem with it, you do not possess the skills that I have spent an entire lifetime to craft.” Maria answered back with a smirk, “You however have your own skill set, to which I can confidently say I do not possess.”

“Well since things have come they way they have, I need to help you a little. You know my family is quite powerful in the stakes of trade, and as such we are able to get anything that can be made. While even things in the far east are not feasible in a day, many I keep stalked for many reasons.”

“Is that so…” Maria could not help but feel a little intrigue at his words, “How long is the turnaround?”

“For things that are easy to retrieve, it would take me a day.” He answered with a slightly proud smirk, “Others however will take me much longer. If I have it in stock I can do a week, while those not within my possession will take two weeks at most.”

>Ask for a selection of Medicines (Read Poison) and a book on Alchemy
>An exotic beast will do, something to bring wonderment for sure.
>Order something else *Write in Anons*
>Not now, Maria is not in the situation for items just yet
>>
>>4374627
>Ask for a selection of Medicines (Read Poison) and a book on Alchemy
Time to cook
>>
Also OP, I dunno if you paid attention, but you forgot to update our conversation stat when you created the new quest
>>
>>4374627
>Ask for a selection of Medicines (Read Poison) and a book on Alchemy
I'm not sure why we have these choices, but I'm assuming that it's a brainfart on my end. This is a good chance to set a trap for our enemies with the alchemy set. Eventually somebody is going to try and steal from our laboratory and they might even be doing it to frame us. We just have to keep meticulous notes (in a language they can't read) to notice when it happens. Be sure to warn Bon before some idiot triggers us burning the empire to the ground if said scheme on their end kills him.


This might be a good chance to advance organic chemistry but im unsure on if our modern knowledge is good enough despite the simplicity of knowing we only have to deal with the bonding of carbon atoms.
Two notable advancements would be getting ammonia without having to buy people's pee and cheap purple dyes when purple dye is only barely affordable for Kings.
>>
>>4374627
>Order something else *Write in Anons*
>A dress and a very sharp hair pin
Did we ever get a dress for the ball? Otherwise I don't think we need anything really.
>>
>>4374665
How long is it until the ball? I figured we had enough time to actually surprise Albert with our dress instead of him seeing it ahead of time. Like spend some time dress shopping or speaking to a gifted artist/tailor with our friends or at least Melody?
>>
>>4374674
You got a week, the event is on the Saturday.
>>
>>4374675
That's cutting it pretty close due to labor if we're getting it handmade from scratch instead of some store. We might need to buy some cloth and hire a tailor/designer asap or alter a premade design.

Chloe will undoubtedly stumble into something radiant that grabs everyone's attention but Chloe only ruins the ball for us if she distracts Albert or causes a commotion that ruins our dance, so the ball itself shouldn't be a problem.
>>
>>4374665
Support. We should vote on the specifics and style of the dress next though.
>>
>>4374718
Actually disregard this. We should just go to a tailor next to order one.

Actual vote:
>Ask for a selection of Medicines (Read Poison) and a book on Alchemy
>>
>>4374627
>Ask for a selection of Medicines (Read Poison) and a book on Alchemy
>>
>>4374659
>>4374627
Adjusting my old vote.

>Request a tailor/designer that can show us some prospective dresses and make adjustments
>Ask for a selection of Medicines (Read Poison) and a book on Alchemy
>Start planning out modern safety measures for the lab that are feasible like an eye wash station (and general emergency shower if something gets splashed on us, first aid kit, protective clothing, and the like so that we don't end up killed in a freak accident.
>>
>>4374627
>Ask for a selection of Medicines (Read Poison) and a book on Alchemy
Might as well start to to study now I guess, since we're getting an economics boost soon.

+
>Ask Albert for seamstress recommendations
He'll probably know the one which all the noble ladies around here are raving about, and maybe some lesser gems.

Of course we're not gonna let him *see* the dress until the dance (a girl's gotta have some ~mysteries~), but we gotta tease our new beau with the fact we're gonna be pretty, well pretty on the night. (And partly for him to boot)

>>4374683
Forget Chloe, the only one we need to impress is Albert. But I will not be opposed to Maria catching someone else's eye in true shojo love triangle fashion.
>>
>>4374659
>I'm not sure why we have these choices
Our boy here is offering us a gift to woo us
>>
>>4374627
>An exotic beast will do, something to bring wonderment for sure.

Exotic beast... like a parrot or like a wyvern? What we are talking here?
>>
>>4374643
>>4374659
>>4374723
>>4374760
>>4374837
Guys we have high intrigue, we don't need poisons. We can procure this easily be ourselves.
>>
>>4374837
>Forget Chloe, the only one we need to impress is Albert.
Well uh.. yeah. I did kinda point that Chloe doesn't matter during the dance unless he's dumb enough took at her instead or some major event happens that gets in the way of having fun.
>>4374861
True, but we are clearly part science nerd deep inside and if we eventually unlock some sort of game potion it's a game changer for any army.
>>
>>4374627
>An exotic beast will do, something to bring wonderment for sure.
>Ask Albert for seamstress recommendations
>>
>>4374627
>>4374807
+1
>>
>>4374861
We could easily ask for some books on actual medicine to be included in the lot. Infact, we probably should to disguise our poison book acquisition.

>we don't need poisons
But poisons perfectly compliment our high intrigue/stealth build though? Assassinations and the like.

And yeah we can procure poisons on our own, but I'm betting increasing the medicine (poison?) skill will also increase our knowledge of poisons and their antidotes too.
>>
Poison is a woman's best friend
>>4374723
>>4374760
>>4374807
>>4374837
>>4374881

Exotic beast
>>4374858
>>4374870
Im not going to bother counting the dress as that actually should just happen. Besides that, Poison it is!!
>>
“Hmm, well there are a couple of things.” Maria answered still in a hush tone, “If you can gather for me some medicines would be a grand things. Maybe a book along with it so that I might be able to study what exactly I am handling.”

“That would be easy to get. I have a few things in stock that would work.” He gave himself a nod before raising a small brow, “And what else would you need?”

“Hmm, well a dress of course.”

“A dress…” Albert seemed to be surprised but for a moment before slapping himself in the face, “Oh by the Lord above why have I not organized getting you a dress!”

“Well that would simply be because I never thought of it till now.” Maria answered with a shrugging of her shoulders, “So I am at fault for that little problem, since I am simply in a land where the only weight I hold is with the religious institution.”

“Well, I will see what I can do. My family knows a good amount of seamstresses so I should have a good opening here early next week.”

“Alright then, I will go take care of that when it comes.”

“You said ‘I’, are you planning on going by yourself?”

“Indeed, as I want to keep it a little secret for the ball. Why would you want to spoil the fun?”

For a moment the man seemed to be in deep thought, eventually though he gave a nod, “As long as I do not pay my entire fortune.”

“You think I am that kind of girl.” Maria asked with a laugh while Albert just shook his head.

With that conversation done class began with time swiftly flying by. Before anyone could really notice it was already over and the hallways were filled with people once again. For Maria she was quickly moving through the crowds after saying good bye to Albert, seeking her target with swift precision.

[Military Success]

It was not that hard of a matter, in order to find the girl Maria was dedicated to watching. Just as she expected, the girl was avidly talking to the Holish Prince, seemingly enjoying her time. However, unknown to the other two, there was a figure stalking the two with a brown cloak this time. However, Maria knew for an instant the moment she saw the writting upon the girl’s paper who it was.

Fein Kers, once an avid stalker and now someone addicted to the concept of Otome.

>Approach the girl as a simple Noble, no need to rise suspicion from her.
>Reveal who Maria was, the person who hinted at an entire genre for her to write
>Maria shall simply let the girl bask in her glory, for she will surely give information to someone as interesting as Maria the Kingslayer
>Eh, just stalk the stalker again
>Other methods of approach
>>
>>4375166
>Reveal who Maria was, the person who hinted at an entire genre for her to write
>>
>>4375166
>Reveal who Maria was, the person who hinted at an entire genre for her to write
So we meet again, my dear novelist
>>
>>4375166
>Reveal who Maria was, the person who hinted at an entire genre for her to write
Let's try to get some goodwill from her. Could make a good spy later on, she's not bad at stalking.
>>
>>4375166
>Reveal who Maria was, the person who hinted at an entire genre for her to write
>>
>>4375166
>>Reveal who Maria was, the person who hinted at an entire genre for her to write
>Other
>Recruit the girl
tfw no big tiddy goth medieval fantasy gf
>>
>>4375166
>Maria shall simply let the girl bask in her glory, for she will surely give information to someone as interesting as Maria the Kingslayer
>>
>>4375166
>Reveal who Maria was, the person who hinted at an entire genre for her to write
>>
Maria watched over the group for a few minutes, looking for her chance to intercept this little parade of people. Of course her chance eventually came as the couple just rounded the corner, leaving Fein Kers out of their sight. So with that, Maria made her approach.

[Royal Demeanor Success]

“Hello there, Miss Kers, it has been a long time.”

“Huh!” The girl quickly flipped around with wide eyes. In a moment later though they became the size of saucers with a small hint of fear, “Oh, uh, Miss Regnia. Did I do anything wrong?”

“No no you have not.” Maria answered with a guiding hand, “Though I do wish to talk to you. Mind if we get out of this hallway.”

“Uh, are you sure that you did not confuse me with someone else?”

“No I did not. I wanted to talk to you about the book I am sure you have been writing.” Maria answered while making her way towards an empty classroom.

“Y-w-how,” The girl seemed to suddenly begin to malfunction but began to follow anyway. It was likely just the presence of Maria leading her on, easily controlling such a confused brain.

As Maria shut the door behind them the Kingslayer felt she could finally speak freely, “It is quite easy on how I know. You have already read what it was I wrote.”

It only took a moment after Maria’s words the the girl seemed to snap, “I-it was you!!”

“Indeed, though sadly I have not had the time to continue myself. Simply put my life is way too cluttered now I fear to have drop it.” Before the girl could say anything about Maria’s words she quickly followed up with her question, “So, if I may ask, how is your story coming along?”

“It's coming along really well!” she announced while taking out a large pile of papers and placing them in front of Maria from who knows where, “If you want to look over them you can!”

Maria did just that, but quickly noticed the problem presenting itself, “I am sorry, but however you wrote this I cannot read it.”

“Oh damn it! I should have translated them first!” She complained before quickly gathering the papers back into her being.

With the chance given Maria decided to ask her question, “So if I may ask, why were you following the Lisa girl.”

“Oh them? Research!” The girl cheered while finally getting her work together, “Their relationship is getting so spicy that I want to see it to the end! Then I shall write about it!”

“Is that so…”

>Ask the Questions Maria has *Write in please*
>Recruit this girl into Maria’s network, by convincing her the Chloe ordeal is far more entertaining
>Maybe they both can go stalk Lisa
>>
>>4375646
>Ask the Questions Maria has *Write in please*
Tell about what you’ve seen from it, which one is more likely to win her hand ?
>>
>>4375646
>Recruit this girl into Maria’s network, by convincing her the Chloe ordeal is far more entertaining
And this too >>4375658
>>
>>4375646
>Recruit this girl into Maria’s network, by convincing her the Chloe ordeal is far more entertaining
>>
>>4375646
>>4375658
This first, then:
She's a bit of a blabbermouth if anyone actually speaks to her and she's going to write everything anyway. Best to not be direct since it would be misinterpreted as actually targeting Chloe when misc factions start thinking about assassinations.
>Tell her past gossip and how it resolved. (Eg Ford and her Cousin's little spat. Some misc romance stuff that happened during our time here) Remember out loud how we have to warn Bon from starting some sort of forbidden affair while complaining about how catastrophic a love decahedron jenga tower could get when the first prince is involved in a battle over a woman. All carefully worded.based on what she's actually done with maybe some hypothetical extra entanglements (aka tease out a bit of info on certain routes) if she doesn't learn how to avoid such things. That should hook her in and we can just pretend reading about the chaos that ensues around Chloe is at least entertaining. If she asks why we have such specific scenarios in mind? Well as noble women we have to be prepared for such things as a manner of course! That'll make Kers seem like she's obsessed with romantic delusions of the nobility if somebody notices and questions her.
>>
>>4375646
>Recruit this girl into Maria’s network, by convincing her the Chloe ordeal is far more entertaining

And
>>4375658
This as well
>>
>>4375646
>>>Ask the Questions Maria has *Write in please*
>>4375658
Also what has she been up to? Have an actual conversation with the girl.
>>
>>4375646
>Recruit this girl into Maria’s network, by convincing her the Chloe ordeal is far more entertaining
>>
>>4375658
+1
>>
>>4375646
>Recruit this girl into Maria’s network, by convincing her the Chloe ordeal is far more entertaining
>>
Recruit Her
>>4375680
>>4375689
>>4375738
>>4375801
>>4375983

Just Questions to Ackowledge
>>4375658
>>4375783
>>4375858

Yeah no Recuitement
>>4375723

Looks to be recruiting, and I acknowledge the question.
>>
“Well if that is the case, who do you think is winning?” Maria asked the relationship researcher.

“Oh it would be Oskar almost by a landslide!” She announced without much worry, “The kind Childhood friend was beaten out by an exotic Forign Prince. Oh it is a tragedy in the making for sure!”

“Is that so?”

“It is, though again we cannot rule out the Childhood friend. He was able to get a date with her on saturday.” She mussed before getting a sinister smile, “Though the Prince scored Sunday, so take that as you will.”

“Sunday… is she taking him to Church?”

“Fufufu, you got that right.” Fein announced while a snicker, “It seems they are taking all day for each other. Church in the morning, a horse ride in the afternoon, finishing with dinner at an expensive restaurant.”

“Is that so? Is that not a little too much for them?”

“That is what I thought. I mean the Childhood Friend only has a nice walk and dinner planned with her.” Fein answered with a shrugging of her shoulders, “Though you never know what could happen~”

With those words Maria was for the most part satisfied with knowledge but not everything, “Interesting, well is that everything you have been uptoo recently?”

“Eh, well, I have been writing….” Fein answered while timidly bridging her fingers, “I guess school work as well.”

[Intrigue Success]

“Well it sounds like you need to get out a little more, how about coming to one of my Tea Parties at some point?”

“A-a Tea Party!?” She exclaimed with a good amount of excitement, “Are you sure about that?”


“I am. We talk about these kinda things all the time, I am sure you would find many of them interesting to write about.” Maria seemed to ponder for a moment, “Though I suggest you bring a translated copy of your novel, they will love it.”

“Is that so. Well, I will do so!” She cheered.

“Oh and another thing, I suggest you eye a girl named Chloe Loveheart. She is one who will make an interesting story.”

“Yeah, people were saying she was getting with the first prince…” Fien Kers made a nice nod to Maria and a cheer, “Alright, I will do so!”

And with that, Maria had a spy who did not even know they were one.

>Go see the Second Prince’s Camp to tell them of the situation
>Go see Melody, have some fun with the maid
>Instead of scheming, go for a walk
>>
>>4376163
>Go see Melody, have some fun with the maid
>>
>>4376163
>Go see the Second Prince’s Camp to tell them of the situation
Fellas we have a date to crash (Also we need to make childhood friends date go swimmingly)
>>
>>4376163
>>Instead of scheming, go for a walk
>>
>>4376163
>>4376192
Support
>>
>>4376163
>Go see the Second Prince’s Camp to tell them of the situation
>>
>>4376163
>Go see the Second Prince’s Camp to tell them of the situation
>>
>>4376163
>Go see the Second Prince’s Camp to tell them of the situation
>>
>>4376163
>Go see Melody, have some fun with the maid
>>
>>4376163
>Go see the Second Prince’s Camp to tell them of the situation
>>
>>4376163
>Go see the Second Prince’s Camp to tell them of the situation
>>
>>4376163
>Go see Melody, have some fun with the maid
>>
Looking at the maid looks like Hitori bocchi in maid costume
>>
With her talk with Miss. Kers done, Maria quickly made her way down the halls and through recognizable walls. Just as many times before, she noted the rather calm library as she passed it. Though now that she thought about it, why did the Second Prince choose to stay here. Yes it was a spare room he could get, but Maria also noted that with his political clout he could likely get another room more equal to the First Prince’s.

How such a thought ebbed away as Maria finally arrived at the door to the study. Without much care she opened it, receiving a welcoming sight of a few men drinking tea.

“Oh Maria, welcome.” Albert called out with a smile, “I have good news, they were able to transport the goods with the messenger on his way back.”

“Really? That was quite fast.”

“Indeed, but I would give my thanks to a recent service opening up. The Mailmen seem to come to the Academy on the hour it seems.”

“Fufufu, well that's good to know.” Maria mused while thinking of what were likely her men doing a good job, “So what do we have?”

“Well, uh, I don't really know myself. I felt it would be better for you to look over the things before anything else.”

“Then lets open it.”

Albert quickly took out a rather large case, the object looking to have suffered a few years under the counter for sure. After a pair of latches were removed, the smell of leather entered their noses.

“By the Lord, what did you get?”

“I… do not really know myself.”

There were a series of vials and what looked to be old plants scattered about it. In the middle was of course a Mortor and Psetil, but there as well was a series of measuring instruments with a rather large needle. At the side was a book, so Maria picked it up and began to read the first page.

A Thousand Secrets of the Gods, Valor The Alchemist

That name, where was it Maria recognized from?

“Oh I found the list!” Announced Albert, which quickly drew Maria’s attention from him and to a rather lengthy sheet of medicines. Of course, Maria was easily able to read over the man’s shoulder.

Drought of Mending Rendered Flesh
Drought of Burn Relief
Liquor of restfulness
Potion of Lust
Mind Manipulator
Cospotan
Drought of Human Ecstasy


Most of the names were self explanatory, so what kind of scheme could Maria pull off with these…

>Use the Lust Potion to get the Holish Prince and the Girl kicked from the school.
>Use the Mind Manipulation potion to drive Oskar insane
>During the Johnson Date, drug the girl with Ecstasy
>Other Ideas
>>
>>4376717
>Other Ideas
A combo of drugging Lisa with Ecstasy + Mind Manipulation of Oscar plans

Use the ecstasy potion during Lisa and Johnson's dates to push them together (maybe a low dose of Lust Potion on the two when the time is right to get them to seal the deal, so to speak), while at the same time drugging Oscar with mind manipulator so that his resulting breakdown looks like the result of him being jilted by Lisa.

This way we stop Oskar gaining more power by way of Lisa's lands, and also undermine him to make our eventual takeover easier.

Using the lust potion on Oskar and Lisa might backfire because there's nothing to stop them hitching up after they're kicked out, which is what we're trying to avoid.

Suddenly making Oskar go insane out of the blue might draw too much suspicious to us, especially with Ford's ongoing smear campaign.
>>
>>4376717
>Use the Mind Manipulation potion to drive Oskar insane
Let's give the other guy a happy ending and only kick the boy out, which would increase our reasons for invading
>>
>>4376717
>This Valor person seems like a pervert. At least they made some useful potions too.
>The liquor of restfulness to make the Holish prince miss his date seems the most efficient usage. Can we take steps to overwork him slightly before he sips some tea so that he thinks he doesn't suspect foul play?
>Try to improve Johnson's self esteem or at least work him up to be true to his feelings rather than let his heart be torn asunder for it is almost too late. I'm sure the gossip girls can find a way to spur him into action. Lisa is probably waiting for him to man up already.
>>
>>4376737
Actually, this is more complete
>>
>>4376717
>>4376737
+1
>>
>>4376737
Remember, getting kicked out is equal to an excommunication as he will not be Corinated. Thought I would clear that up.
>>
>>4377034
Be that as it may, I think having the prince under our control rather than excommunicated is still better, since we'll better be able to influence Holand's moves during the war.
>>
This seems super risky when we just declared war on a guy who might be spying on us and got ourselves watched like a hawk by the entire school since they wanna hear the juicy rumours.
Also not a good idea to mess with drugs when you have no experience with dosages and didn't read the side effects yet.
What's a cospotan? Given the other stuff near it in the list it seems like an impotency/virility drug?.
>>
Slowly Maria rose the vial of both Mind Manipulation and Ecstacy above her head, examining them for a moment. One was a slightly glowing purple bottle while the other was a greenish tint to it. Kinda hard to believe these are medicines and drugs belonging to this world, but Maria could not say anything about it.

“So, whats the plan?” Albert asked with a little hesitation in his voice.

“The idea will be to deliver these drugs to them, probably in their food.” Maria answered with a nod to herself, “While I will mainly plan on manipulating my Cousin’s little date, I will see to it that they simply have too unusual of a time.”

“That is quite devilish.”

“Hmph, I was held as a prisoner of war as a child.” Maria answered back with a huff, “The world is not kind to me, thus I will not be kind to it.”

“It seems you have a plan.” Elric called out from his couch while studying the two with a steady glance, “Though I will ask, what happens if you are caught?”

“If we are caught? Hmm, probably nothing less than any of us have already lost.” Maria admitted with a faint smile, “Honestly I would have it the worst, as my acts will result in expulsion unless I can play my cards right. Each of you however will likely lose nothing more than whatever will be lost upon Lucien’s ascension to the throne.”

Elric did not say anything to Maria’s words, but neither did he refute her answer. Such was the state of affairs, simply not calling out his full support was enough to secure him safety.

“Alright, with that done I need a delivery method. Albert, would you mind helping me with that?”

The man gave her a pair of furrowed brows to the question, “What kind of help do you need?”

“We need to go talk to some people. If you can give me a quick layout of all the restaurants in town and who to talk to, that would be grand.” Maria said with a wave of her hand, “With such knowledge tomorrow I can easily track down who has marked reservations for a couple on Sunday night.”

“Yeah, I can give that.”

“Good,” And with those words Maria closed her briefcase, “Then I shall be off. Best no one sees me here in the next few days.”

And with that Maria left for her room, ready to began the work on how to convince a few workers to poison their customers. Or atleast, give them all a better day.

>Head to Town in a disguise, such as a heavily armored man.
>To town with Melody, as it would be a fun time on top of what Maria schemes.
>Why not go with Albert, surely sampling a bunch of tasty restaurants would be good and Albert’s presence would surely force them into obedience
>Other schemes, of course
>>
>>4377144
>Head to Town in a disguise, such as a heavily armored man.

Nobody would expect this one from us.
>>
>>4377144
>Why not go with Albert, surely sampling a bunch of tasty restaurants would be good and Albert’s presence would surely force them into obedience
>>
Going with Albert or Maria leaves a trail of our actions, and with Ford in hyper suspicion mode anything we do in public will be used against Maria.
>>
>>4377144
>Why not go with Albert, surely sampling a bunch of tasty restaurants would be good and Albert’s presence would surely force them into obedience
>>
>>4377144
>>Head to Town in a disguise, such as a heavily armored man.
We should have kept that mailboy disguise instead of returning it. Nothing preventing Maria from getting another disguise though.
>>While I will mainly plan on manipulating my Cousin’s little date
Uhh did I miss something here?
>>
>>4377153
Meant Melody, not Maria.

>>4377184
Oskar is our cousin since our mom is from Holand.
>>
>>4377144
>To town with Melody, as it would be a fun time on top of what Maria schemes.
Maids are made to do things for us.
>>
>>4377144
>>Why not go with Albert, surely sampling a bunch of tasty restaurants would be good and Albert’s presence would surely force them into obedience
>>
>>4377144
>To town with Melody, as it would be a fun time on top of what Maria schemes.
>>
>>4377144
>Head to Town in a disguise, such as a heavily armored man.
>>
>>4377144
>Why not go with Albert, surely sampling a bunch of tasty restaurants would be good and Albert’s presence would surely force them into obedience
>>
>>4377144
>Head to Town in a disguise, such as a heavily armored man.
or
>To town with Melody, as it would be a fun time on top of what Maria schemes.

The point being we don't want to have Albert involved
>>
>>4377157
Changing to
>Head to Town in a disguise, such as a heavily armored man.
After reading the boys’ arguments
>>
>>4377144
>Head to Town in a disguise, such as a heavily armored man.
As much as I wanted an Albert date this is safer.

Also are we messing with Oskar too?
>>
>>4377144
>Head to Town in a disguise, such as a heavily armored man.
>>
>>4377144
>Head to Town in a disguise, such as a heavily armored man.
>>
Disguise oneself
>>4377146
>>4377184
>>4377302
>>4377334
>>4377350
>>4377371
>>4377445
>>4377575

Go on a date
>>4377248
>>4377333

With a maid
>>4377221
>>4377297
>>4377334

Seems to be heavily alone. But then again, murder is usually done alone unless sponsored by the state.
>>
>>4377928
A murder date sounds good though
>>
With an usually hard thud Maria’s feet came in contact with the floor of the restaurant that she found herself in. The gear itself was a nice mix of metal and leather straps, all positioned so that Maria could look her best. While it was a little odd for someone of this appearance to go eating anywhere other than a tavern, Maria also knew that some Vagrant Knights never had anything else to wear.

Thus when she entered a nice eatery, people simply gave a curious glance in her direction. There were no derogatory stares or comments, as men who fought in war were seens as quite able and worthy of respect.

So Maria took her seat in a less populated section of the place, soon waving over a waitress.

“Hello there sire, what would you want me to get for you?” The girl asked with a formal tone about her.

[Conversation Success] [Intrigue Success] [Performance Fail]

“I would like a simple steak cooked to whatever the chef recommends, along with a warmed ale if you have it.”

The girl gave the disguised person a confident nod, “Alright, I understand. I will get everything cooked quickly for you.”

And like that Maria watched the girl, who was none the wiser, walk away. In the end she was able to replicate a young man’s voice, but she could not get rid of her accent. Then again, only if they are pressed will they realize the realm in which she came from.

This restaurant, the Heaven’s Helm, is definitely where one of her two target would be. It was the wealthiest restaurant in the entire town which neared the Academy, and both of the men were at least dukes in wealth.

Now, how should she approach it?

>Use the waitress as the point of weakness, bribing her into doing Maria’s bidding
>The Chef will be easy enough, and he can seamlessly mix the poisons with his stew
>Maybe Maria should play the role of waitress, if just for a couple days
>Other Ideas?
>>
>>4377955
Is performance tied to expression ?
>Use the waitress as the point of weakness, bribing her into doing Maria’s bidding
>>
>>4377955
>The Chef will be easy enough, and he can seamlessly mix the poisons with his stew
>>
>>4377955
>The Chef will be easy enough, and he can seamlessly mix the poisons with his stew
>>
>>4377955
>The Chef will be easy enough, and he can seamlessly mix the poisons with his stew
>>
>>4377955
>>The Chef will be easy enough, and he can seamlessly mix the poisons with his stew
We are adding love potion, we are trying to help them, no evil doing here no sir
>>
>>4377955
>The Chef will be easy enough, and he can seamlessly mix the poisons with his stew
>>
>>4377973
It is, I just messed it up.
>>
Anyways, it looks like the large part of your choices have all been made for the Chef. So I will write...
>>
I feel like we really need to start keeping blackmail material for everyone in town from now on. Maybe add a slight pay raise for the postal workers in exchange for telling us what they hear at the bars and bribe some bartenders in the long term?
>>
Soon enough Maria had the food brought to her and began to eat. Of course she did not take off the full helm, using just lifting her mask just a little bit to enable eating. In her honest opinion the meat was pretty good, as it seems the cook did a little work and got it to a medium rare kind of taste.

Yes, the blood and spices seemed to mix together quite nicely.

Soon enough though Maria finished with an emptied plate, leaving her time to use an excuse. With a wave of her hand, Maria brought the waitress to her table, “I will admit, the meat was quite good. Could I by chance go see the chef, to pay my respects directly?”

“Uh, I am not sure about that.” The Waitress said with a shaky smile, “While he does not mind talking to people, I can just as easily bring my Boss out here.”

With a smirk hidden underneath Maria’s mask she slowly edged over a golden coin, “Simply tell me the way.”

[Intrigue Success]

“You saw the doors I use to get in here? If you use those, you will be brought right into the kitchen.” She said while picking up the coin, “Though I warn you, be careful since it is quite hot in there.”

“I will be fine.” And with that Maria picked herself off the chair and made her way over.

The first thing to hit her was the heat, as the place was home to a large stone oven right in the middle. Off to the side she could see a man tending to the flame, with quite the finesse in his actions.
>>
“Hmm, who are you?” THe man said in an instant, quickly turning to see the armored figure.

“No need to threat, I am simply here to compliment your cooking. It was quite well done.” Mari answered back with a confidence in her voice.

“Is that so, well thank you. Though I will say is it not a little too hot being in here?”

”Oh, heat is not much of a problems for me. For being the owner of this place, you have quite the operation.” Maria answered with a small laugh, ”Though I will say, by chance have you received a few reservations from Academy students recently?”

“Yeah, plenty. What of it?”

”Then I should be more accurate, any by a forign Noble or a man who seems down on his luck. The former later today while the other is tomorrow.”

“...” The man seemed silent for a moment before Maria placed a coin on the table. Gold coins were quite valuable in this day and age, “Yeah, I know who you are talking about. What of them?”

Maria could not help but smile as they both seem to be going to the same place, “Well, I simply ask that you give them these. The Purple one shall be for tonight in a small dose, while you can give all the others tomorrow.”

The man seemed to look at the bottles with a slight bit of fear, but also curiosity. Slowly he picked them up and examined one, “So you want me to poison them? Why would I do that to those poor young souls.”

Just as he said that Maria placed ten total coins on the table, enough that someone could buy a small house with them, ”One half now, and the other will be when I can confirm the results.”

“... Alright, I’ll do it.” He answered while grabbing the coins quickly for himself.

“Good.”

And like that, Maria’s plan was put into motion.

>Stalk the Couple here tonight, to make sure everything works out.
>Simply hang out with Albert for the rest of the day, if nothing else than create an aliby
>Go visit the Bandits, seeing what exactly they have been up to
>Read the book on Medicine
>>
>>4378407
>Read the book on Medicine
Let’s learn a little
>>
>>4378407
>Read the book on Medicine
>>
>>4378407
>Simply hang out with Albert for the rest of the day, if nothing else than create an alibi
We need an alibi fellas
>>
>Simply hang out with Albert for the rest of the day, if nothing else than create an aliby
>>
>>4378407
>Simply hang out with Albert for the rest of the day, if nothing else than create an aliby
>>
>>4378407
>Simply hang out with Albert for the rest of the day, if nothing else than create an aliby
>>
>>4378407
>>Simply hang out with Albert for the rest of the day, if nothing else than create an aliby
>>
>>4378407
>Simply hang out with Albert for the rest of the day, if nothing else than create an aliby
Need the alibi and it'll be pleasant too
>>
“Ah this is life.” Maria exclaimed as she lazed back with a small glass of tea in her hand, “The temperature is just perfect don’t you think?”

To those words Maria received a nod, “Yeah, though if the almanac is correct we will correct it and we will start experiencing the cold right after the ball.”

“Is such a thing so reliable?” Maria mused while mixing her tea, “There are so few who understand the mystic arts, let alone understand them. And such sorceries could easily be done by a man using the power of demons.”

“Well I can’t really say mine is heretical like that. Simply that it uses the stars above to judge the events upon the ground. It is a simple technique, but reliable.”

“If only I had enough time, I would want to learn that. However I do not.”

“Being able to tell the weather an entire year before it happens?” Albert gave a sigh upon expressing such a magical idea, “I wonder just how much more it can predict.”

“Now be careful there. I am pretty sure a wizard wouldn’t be able to determine the movements and throws of the commodity market, lest they never need to make lead from gold.”

Albert gave a small chuckle at Maria’s words, “Yeah, though I sometimes wonder how those men make a living. Unlike the Pegan Druids, a seer cannot make food grow from seed in only a few days.”

“Well they would go around giving their service to the desperate or the unusual.” Maria shook her head as a thought grew in her mind, “My Father had to use one for me when I was just a baby.”

“What happened to you back then?”

“Oh,” Maria started to think far back then, when she was less Maria and more a person reincarnated. They were foggy, as expected of a child’s mind, “It was when my Mother gave birth to me. She had died in Labor, and I would not cry. Knowing that I was alive my Father reached for whoever would come to his rescue. If he told me correctly, it was an alchemist…”

Maria’s mind soon went with a ding of realization, one of the first thoughts she ever had. The one who saved her life, maybe the one who gave her this body, was Valor.

The same man wrote the book currently in Maria’s possession.

>Quickly get out of the book to scour its pages.
>Just keep talking to Albert, thats nothing too pressing *I just keep spitballing*
>Ask about Albert’s family and his many siblings
>Suggest they take a walk through the gardens
>Other ideas
>>
>>4378801
>Quickly get out of the book to scour its pages.
>>
>>4378801
>Quickly get out of the book to scour its pages.
>>
>>4378801
>Quickly get out of the book to scour its pages.
>>
>>4378801
>Quickly get out of the book to scour its pages.
>>
>>4378801
>>Quickly get out of the book to scour its pages.
Did Valor do an isekai summoning?
>>
>>4378801
>Quickly get out of the book to scour its pages
>>
>>4378801
>Quickly get out of the book to scour its pages
>>
I think the desire is clear.
>>
With her mind already racing, Maria quickly reached down and retrieved her bag. Such a thing of course contained a series of books for her classes, but she had the foresight to grab the alchemist’s book in case she wanted to read it.

Well, now she really wanted to read it.

“Uh Maria, did something just happen?”

“Yes, the writer of this book. How did you get this book Albert?”

The young man gave her a shrugging of the shoulders, “I can’t really say how. It was just what I could get in such a short amount of time.”

While the book did not have an index and was quite long, Maria was confident in her abilities to read fast. There was a vast array of material, many of which Maria noted was quite different from what chemistry was in her world.

One part Vester Feather, then chant the Holium Three Times

Take three ounces of Child’s blood, and burn it to a crisp

Out of the five feathers you have brought, select the longest three

“Is this a book of medicine, or of sorcery?”


Albert leaned over the table and looked at the pages Maria was looking through, “Maybe its the truth behind Alchemy. You said this person was an Alchemist right?”

“Yeah, its just… there!” And with a devilish fervor she struck her fingers upon a page with a recipe that she somehow knew was the one that influenced her.

Cure for a Soulless Child

“What in the…” Albert’s words mimicked Maria’s own thoughts. The two of them looked over the pages, noting the bizarre ritual it called to take place. Just as before, many of the items it called for she did not even know. However she noted one part of the ritual which seemed the most bizarre of them all.

Take a hint of moon dust, and sprinkle it upon the climax of a full moon upon the corpse of their dead parent. If the alignment is right, the empties vessel can be used to snatch a wayward Soul from the Heavens above.

Below all that however was a small graph, a series of names written upon it;

Hellios of Vectna, Failure
Charles of Immenciated, failure
Lucien of Austin, partial success further observation is suggested
Maria of MaKain, Success, further observation is suggested


“The madman.”

>Ask Albert to Help Maria track him down
>Take the evening to research more out of the book
>Put it all away for now, Maria has more pressing matters
>>
>>4379250
>Take the evening to research more out of the book
Assuming that this doesn't derail our date meddling plans.

Our first priority is to resolve this love triangle plot (without being caught), but we absolutely need to dig deeper into this when we have the time.

We can track him down after we see all that the book has to offer.
>>
>>4379250
>>Ask Albert to Help Maria track him down
It's been 16 years, hopefully he isn't dead yet
>>
>>4379250
>Take the evening to research more out of the book
Holy shit, that explains a lot. This means the list was meant to end on Lucien and the partial success makes so much sense
>>
>>4379250
>Take the evening to research more out of the book
At least nobody can call us a soulless monstrosity without also attacking the first prince.
>>
>>4379250
>>4379299
On second thought it might be useful to find him and learn what we can about magic.
>Ask Albert to Help Maria track him down
>>
>>4379250
>Take the evening to research more out of the book
>>
>>4379250
>>Put it all away for now, Maria has more pressing matters
We still have a plot to finish. The book's not going anywhere.
>>
We're gonna have to track down anything else he's written and possibly silence/blackmail the mouthy prick. This is a gross breach of doctor/patient confidentiality. And what's this crap about further observation? He's secretly spying on us too?
And what does this mean about the pot we derailed? If this body didn't start out with a soul, then the otome plot wouldn't work, which implies the plot predicted/expected us to reincarnate.
>>
>>4379250
>Put it all away for now, Maria has more pressing matters
>>
>>4379400
Or Maria was never meant to be born without a soul.
>>
>>4379426
That kinda explains the evil part, since lucien was dead inside and it's a oartial success
>>
>>4379250
>Put it all away for now, Maria has more pressing matters
Absolutely heretical. Find the sorcerer just to burn him.
>>
>>4379250
>Take the evening to research more out of the book
>>
>>4379250
>Take the evening to research more out of the book
>>
Ask for some help tracking him down
>>4379271
>>4379307
>>4379400

Research the Book
>>4379258
>>4379297
>>4379319
>>4379450
>>4379563

Eh, not worth Maria's time
>>4379348
>>4379420
>>4379437

Research it is!
>>
>>4379432
>>4379426
It does explain Lucien but not Chloe's influence on him unless...wait does her fucking healing magic work on souls? Hence capable of repairing the damage on Lucien's soul making him not a zombie and might explain Chloe's hostility to the original Maria because there was literally no soul for her to charm or heal.
>>
“Madman?” Albert asked with a raised brow.

“Sorry Albert, but I actually need to start reading this.” Maria said with a firm judgement in her voice.

“Is that so…” The Steward’s son gave a slight crestfallen look before nodding, “Then I will see you later than.”

“Indeed you will.” And with that Maria rose from her seat and quickly travled her way to the study.

With that the two split, Maria quickly making her way through the halls without much of a care. The evening lights were starting to go down now, making it about time that the couple would be getting together.

Yes, it was out of her hands now. That much Maria knew and admitted, so she should not care much about it. Soon enough she was in her room, the book placed upon her desk as she scoured the pages for information.

Time then flew by, the daylight becoming a nice sunset that she could see right throught the window. The lands were dies a soft red, nothing that would be too worrisome to people.

For her research, Maria got thought a few pages on it. Nothing in this book could be called a straight up sorcery, as they always had some kind of physical component with them. However there were also elaborate rituals each of whom would take weeks to get down.

Down to the fact, honestly from what she read there were no pages talking about manipulating someone’s soul. Not like the one about Soulless Children. Most were actually remedies for simple colds and ailments, most however seeming just as difficult. For a world with magic, it was making sense why such arts were few and far between.

It was in this moment however that Maria’s eyes drifted outside, her vision on a couple seemingly ontop of one another. It only took her a moment to realize who they were, and a small smile crept upon her face.

It was infact Johnson and Lisa, two childhood friends looking lovenly in eachother’s eyes. IF she was not mistaken, they were going in the direction of a nearby bench.

>Maybe Maria should follow them, to make sure they don’t do anything naughty
>Follow, but collect this ‘date’ as blackmail.
>Maria shall simply let them be, she has no reason to follow them
>>
>>4379638
>Follow, but collect this ‘date’ as blackmail.
>>
>>4379638
>Maria shall simply let them be, she has no reason to follow them
It'll run its course, we should be focusing on the alchemist. Maybe look further into Lucien for more clues if possible.
>>
>>4379638
>Maria shall simply let them be, she has no reason to follow them
>>
>>4379638
>Follow, but collect this ‘date’ as blackmail.
Let's make sure only we get any blackmail on them. Would be bad if someone else got their hooks in.
>>
>>4379638
>Maria shall simply let them be, she has no reason to follow them
Good to know that the chef is doing what we paid him for and the potion is kicking in. Oskar is next.

Also poor Albert, we need to take him out on an actual date soon. Or maybe give him a thank you gift for the all important isekai mechanics book?
>>
>>4379638
>Maria shall simply let them be, she has no reason to follow them
>>
>>4379638
>Follow, but collect this ‘date’ as blackmail.
>>
>>4379638
>Follow, but collect this ‘date’ as blackmail
We need to take Albert to an actual date soon.
>>
>>4379638
>Maria shall simply let them be, she has no reason to follow them
>>
Oh thats gonna be some nice Blackmail
>>4379645
>>4379694
>>4379735
>>4379743

Nah, Maria has a book to read
>>4379681
>>4379682
>>4379698
>>4379700
>>4379847

Huh, you all are bookworms it seems. Well, actually I got something a little more fun instore for this.
>>
>>4380016
The plot thickens
>>
“Oh, it seems the two love birds are going to have a fun time.” Maria said with a smile while looking up from her book, “I bet they are up to no good, but why bother with it.”

A little bit more time passed as Maria read a little bit more. She grew to understand these works a little, but honestly she now needed to experiment if she was to confirm their effects. As that thought ran through her head, the door to her room opened.

“Ta di ta- Oh Mistress!” Melody exclaimed with a small amount of surprise in her voice, “I did not realize you were back early.”

“Hmm? Oh I guess I usually don’t come back until when the sun sets.” Maria realized while leaning back into her chair, “So how was your day?”


“It has been good Mistress. The Servants are all getting ready for the Ball here next week. It seems they have a dedicated room to it and papal proclamations.” The Maid claimed before quickly drawing out a letter, “Oh, stupid me I almost forgot! Here you must look at this!”

With a raised brow Maria accepted the letter, the symbol resting upon it instantly striking Maria as forign. Seeing as it was already opened, Maria guessed that Melody already took a look into it, making sure it was of course safe.

Without further a due, Maria began to read it.

Oskar, I write to you in a grave time. Your Father, Despot Oskar the Fifth, has died of a severe Cancer within only a few days of getting it. We could not save him, as nor could any of the Clergy. It seems he gave up the will to live just as his father and the father before him had.

I must implore you, beg the clergy to give you a Coronation. I heave heard rumors that the Knights eye our lands and the vicious barbarians have finally decided to finally descend from their mountain.

Stay safe.

Your Spymaster and Regent,
Roch Wilczak


“Ohohoho!” Maria could not help but laugh at what was in her hands. It seemed that the young man was now an uncrowned king, well Despot in this case. That meant if anything changed in the status quo, she would easily destroy him.

Of course what happened if this boy died? Where would the crown go? Well judging by the letter within her hand Maria can guess he does not have any siblings, or the Regent would not panic so much. Being his Cousin, does that not mean Maria could snare the crown from him?

No, it might go to Bon instead. Or hell, they might prop up a false ruler in which case Maria can claim the throne herself. Hmm…

>Go with the original plan, nothing much can change here
>Well time to test Maria’s skill, there is another Monarch to Murder
>Well, Maria can edit her plan a little bit *What to Edit?*
>Abandon the plan now, it seems the Spymaster already suspects something
>>
Just so we're all on the same page, the mind manipulation potion is like mind control right?
>>
>>4380070
Eh, you guys read enough.
Mix between that and crack, making the person enjoy anything he is doing.
>>
>>4380045
>Go with the original plan, nothing much can change here
If we went with the murder option it would be kinda obvious for them since they know of our imminent attack
>>
>>4380071
If that's the case then,

>>4380045
>Well, Maria can edit her plan a little bit *What to Edit?*
Use the Mind Manipulation potion to make Oskar your puppet.
Killing Oskar is mighty suspicious, and putting us or Bon on the throne still leaves us with the work of trying to get the runners of the country to work with us.
We don't know the entire situation in Holand, and if we can subvert their spy networks and get accurate information directly from the king, we can make it look like Holand is losing the war because the king is inexperienced.
Unless that was the original plan, in which case carry on then.
>>
>>4380080
well, people already chose to use the mind potion on oskar, but let's use this to be safe
>>
>>4380045
>Well time to test Maria’s skill, there is another Monarch to Murder
It's not Kingslaying it's Kingmaking this time!
>>
>>4380045
>Go with the original plan, nothing much can change here
>>
>>4380045
>>Go with the original plan, nothing much can change here
>>
>>4380045
>Go with the original plan, nothing much can change here
>>
>>4380045
>Go with the original plan, nothing much can change here
Play it safe
>>
Long Term Poisoning
>>4380080
>>4380083

Stay on the same plan
>>4380074
>>4380142
>>4380149
>>4380152
>>4380163

Going to be honest, the longterm poisoning was not a good idea. It's be a little too long term and probably make some obvious problems.
>>
“This is nice to know, but nothing shall change.” Maria answered while taking the small piece of paper near the fire, “Melody you are not to tell anyone of what you have read. Am I understood?”

“Indeed you are Mistress. My lips are to be sealed.”

“Good.”

And like that the fire engulfed the paper, Maria placing its remains in a spare teacup that was lying around. Indeed such a thing was likely to be frowned upon, but who was it to stop Maria? To her, the only laws that she must obey are those put forward by the Lord, written down into scripture by thousands of his servants.

There was no mention that Maria could not destroy evidence.

And like that the night had passed into the day, the morning service being the first things Maria attended. Unlike what normally occurs the turnout seems to have increased, likely because of the proximity to both the Holy Days as well as the Ball. Though Maria noted that Lisa and Johnson were absent from the event.

Though Maria noticed that Oskar was here as well.

“Be wary of the temptation of flesh, my children.” The Headmaster acting as the preist announced with a stern voice, “While our job is to populate the world, doing so outside of the Lord’s light is a sin. Such occasions always create mishaps, running from Bastard Children who will fight your ligimaint children, using such service to expand their own power, and even simply to sate their carnal desires.”

Ah yes, abstinence was the word of the day today. Honestly Maria had more things to worry about than sex, but there were plenty who had more time on their hands. Though a pragmatic approach was not something Maria expected.

Then again, this institution was meant to build leaders. Simply saying that it was bad would not get to those they properly trained.

Oh well, with that over Maria could resume to her normal day, oh what to do?

>Go visit the Headmaster, talk to him about recent events
>Start a little spying on their coming date
>Study the Medical book
>Hang out with Albert for the afternoon
>>
>>4380411
>Study the Medical book
>>
>>4380411
>Study the Medical book
>>
>>4379631
Speaking of Chloe, I would wager that she is the final success of this procedure.
The philosophical end goal of Alchemy is about elevating something to its' purest and noblest possible state, in the case of metals this was considered gold, in the case of souls it could easily be argued to be one that is untainted by the evils of man, a soul loved by the world itself similar to the ideas of the Greek Men of Gold or Biblical Man prior to eating the fruit of knowledge.
This would honestly explain a lot about Chloe, since she is unfailingly naive, the world kind of just bends to accommodate her, and a wild bird just up and decided to hang around with her and has been with her since. That and iirc she was called the Golden Child by the spooky demon letter, but that's tenuous at best.

As for Maria, I figure that the difference between here and the Otome is that her soul space just got filled in with something else, or perhaps the memory of the soul that filled her body was properly scrubbed instead of remembering their prior life or something.
>>
>>4380411
>Hang out with Albert for the afternoon
>>
>>4380411
>Hang out with Albert for the afternoon
Has he recommended seamstresses for us yet? We don't want to rush it in case we need to make last minute adjustments.
>>
>>4380411
>Hang out with Albert for the afternoon
>>
>>4380411
>>Hang out with Albert for the afternoon
>>
>>4380411
>Study the Medical book
>>
>>4380411
>Hang out with Albert for the afternoon
>>
>>4380411
>Hang out with Albert for the afternoon
>>
>>4380411
>Study the Medical book
>>
>>4380411
>Hang out with Albert for the afternoon
Thinking about what to do with Oskar after we ruin his sanity - the aftermath of his sudden breakdown would be a very convenient time for him to ''''suddenly'''' commit suicide. When people look for a why, all they'll see is a combination of him being jilted and his father dying suddenly.
>>
>>4380621
Or he could just, ya know, take being a loser in an otome setting rather harshly and devolve into becoming a drunkard that falls off a balcony. No need to kill him when he can just take high risk behaviors all on his own.
>>
Time to Hang Out with Albert!
>>4380442
>>4380449
>>4380453
>>4380534
>>4380535
>>4380621

Study Medicine
>>4380412
>>4380427
>>4380578

Time to go shopping for a dress I guess!
>>
It did not take Maria very long as she left the church to catch sight of a familiar figure leaving it as well. A sinister smile grew upon her face as Maria swiftly traveled through the crowds and congregation, arriving right behind the man with a smile.

“Hello there Albert.”

“What the?!” The man quickly turned around with wide eyes, “Maria, you scared me!”

“Fufufu, sorry but it was too easy.”

“Indeed it would be. I do not have some sixth sense to detect you.”

“Then ask the Lord for one.”

“I would not bother him with something that trivial.” The young merchant finally gave a sigh as he began to walk, “I did want to find you though, I was able to find a tailor in town who is free today.”

“Really, that fast? I knew I was cutting it close with only asking about it a few days ago.”

“Well I have connections.” Albert admitted with a sly smile, “Those are of course the nearby textile guilds who agreed to give her a discount in the coming month.”

“Sneaky, pulling the rug from under Nobles by using wealth instead of prestige.”

“It was a simple trade.” Albert admitted with a calm smile coming upon himself, “Like I said, my job is to work with people. A good relationship can go a long way.”

“Indeed it does.” Maria mused while deciding her next course of action, “Then we shall be off to the city then. I see no problem with that do you?”

“Well, I guess there is nothing too pressing on my end. I might be able to pick up from things while I am out as well.” He responded without much of a quam, “Though she will not be ready until the late afternoon.”

“Then we shall find things to do then.” And like that the two of them went towards the city.

>Head to the Market for some delightfully questionable goods
>Get something light to eat
>Horseback riding anyone?
>Its a town, come up with you own entertainment
>>
>>4380846
>Horseback riding anyone?
>>
>>4380846
>Head to the Market for some delightfully questionable goods
>>
>>4380846
>>Horseback riding anyone?

Riding horses = countryside = stumbling on someone doing something naughty
>>
>>4380846
>Head to the Market for some delightfully questionable goods

So who thinks Lisa and Johnson got caught and expelled?
>>
>>4380846
>Head to the Market for some delightfully questionable goods
Do we have a literal cloak and dagger to go with our super high intrigue score?
>>
>>4380846
>Horseback riding anyone?
Our riding stat is terrible. Best work on it.
>>
>>4380846
>Head to the Market for some delightfully questionable goods
>>
>>4380846
>Head to the Market for some delightfully questionable goods
>>
Horseback Riding Ho!
>>4380862
>>4380869
>>4380900

To the Market!
>>4380863
>>4380875
>>4380923
>>4381001

Barely to the Market
>>
File: Ahem.jpg (19 KB, 300x300)
19 KB
19 KB JPG
It did not take them very long to arrive at the Town, the sounds of wooden wheels upon the ground and small beasts in Maria’s ears. They had taken a carriage over to this place, the driver not even batting an eye at their request. Stepping on the cobblestone roads Maria could feel a small spirit take her with a devilish smile upon her.

“You know, I have never truly been to a market before.” Maria admitted while taking some confident steps forward, “Fufu, I wonder what we will find.”

“Yeah, it would be interesting.” Albert admitted with a sorta cautious smile himself, “I have never been to this market. While normally most just sell their grains and ale, you can sometimes find the more niche fellow.”

“Well I have no need for grains. Grain I would need it processed in a mill that I do not have before it can be of use.” Maria gave a motion in the air with a small huff in her voice, “Though I would not be against a few loaves of bread.”

“Then we will make that our first purchase.”

And like that they began to travel through the stalls and such, exploring what the locals all had to offer. It was a modest feeling, nothing on the level of going to war but more than simply sitting around in a room all day.

It was quite easy to get herself the bread, so the two simply munched on that for a time. It was ofcourse nothing like modern day bread, being that it was impure. Still, there was no complaints from the two as they finally came upon a stall that caught Maria’s eye.

There was a man standing near a wagon behind him. He seemed more proper than most, being that he stood up instead of sitting on things. Inside the wagon shown prominently were a series of wares stretching from armor to even some jewelry.

As Maria approached she could not help but feel something was off. The man was looking around confused, but Maria simply shook her head as she approached.

“Oh, hello there Miss.” The man snapped out of his confusion in an instant, “My name is Joseph, may I ask for yours?”

It only took a thought for how to introduce oneself, “Maria Louisa, Regnia, the Kingslayer. It is a pleasure to meet you.”

“That name… ah I remember it now I heard it from a Deacon!” Joseph exclaimed with a touch of inspiration, “Though I honestly thought you were older Miss Maria. If you are here, then I guess you are coming from the Academy?”

“Indeed I am.”

“Hmm, then I am sorry that a good amount of my wares are not of use to you.” He admitted while staring at a breastplate, “I was able to sell a few to the guard, but they did not need all the ones I have. Since it was heavy, I wanted to offload it today.”

The man shook his head for another moment before presenting the gems, “Well I would think these would do better for you instead. I have simply been amassing a collection from around the Lord’s lands, so if you want details I can probably tell you.”

>Maybe buy some Armor
>Jewels are a girl’s best friend of course
>Why not ask why he was confused earlier
>>
>>4381143
>>Jewels are a girl’s best friend of course
>>
>>4381143
>Why not ask why he was confused earlier
btw I almost forgot about our guard
>>
>>4381143
>Jewels are a girl’s best friend of course
>Why not ask why he was confused earlier
>>
>>4381143
>Why not ask why he was confused earlier
Also armour should be custom-fitted so don't buy any.
>>
>>4381143
>Why not ask why he was confused earlier
>Maybe buy some Armor
Postal service needs protection
>>
>>4381143
Kraft motherfuckin Lawrence. Where the fuck is your bitch.

>Why not ask why he was confused earlier
>>
>>4381143
>Jewels are a girl’s best friend of course
>Why not ask why he was confused earlier
>>
>>4381143
>>Jewels are a girl’s best friend of course
>>Why not ask why he was confused earlier
>>
Armory
>>4381260

Jewelry
>>4381150
>>4381254
>>4381345
>>4381468

Curiosity
>>4381254
>>4381257
>>4381260
>>4381345
>>4381468

Its most a mix between jewels and Questioning, so I will just mix the two.
>>
“Well, like you can say jewels are a girl’s best friend.” Maria answered with a calm coy to her voice.

“Very well than, my selection is a bit small I will admit. However, like i said earlier they come from all over the Lord’s lands.” And with that Maria watched as the man reached down and drew out a small case from behind him. With a small motion he opened, revealing a small twinkle from inside of it.

There were a few that caught Maria’s eyes, but none more so than a necklace to the right. It had a modestly sized gem that seemed to glow a soft purple. Maria picked it up for a moment and held it for a little show.

“Hey Albert, how does this look for me?”

“Uh, well it brings out your eyes.” He admitted while scratching the back of his head, “Uh, Joseph was it, is that a gem from the Island?”

“Indeed it is.” He exclaimed with a little suprise, “May I ask how you know that?”

“Well, I have seen it go through my father’s hands once.” Albert extended his hand to the merchant, “I have yet to introduce myself, I am Albert Giovanna.”

“Giovanna, as in the merchant family? I guess I should come by here more often, there are a lot of powerful people in this little town.” The merchant joked while shaking his hand.

“Yeah I guess there is.”

“Now since I have a family member of the esteemed family with me, how about I sell the two of you that Necklace for 10 Golden Imperials. In return, you will remember my name if I ever show back up.”

“Hmm, make that eight and I will remember such a generous offer.”

“Deal.”

And like that the two traded moneys, Maria simply shaking her head at what Albert just did. Why she was holding 15 Gold Coins on her person. However, she was not going to look a gifthorse in the mouth about this.

However, “Sir, you said that you had a partner. Did they by chance run off?”

“Oh, uh, yeah. She does occasionally run off but this was a fastest she did so.” He admitted with a shaking of the head.

“Would you by chance need any help finding her?”

“No, I will ne fine there. If nothing else she will find me again here tonight.”

>Be a little more adamant about searching for his ally
>Such a thing is a waste of time, Maria needs to head to a tailor
>Maybe do the investigation without telling the man
>>
>>4381599
>Such a thing is a waste of time, Maria needs to head to a tailor
>>
>>4381599
>>Such a thing is a waste of time, Maria needs to head to a tailor
Tell Albert to wait outside the store. We want a surprise.
>>
>>4381599
>Such a thing is a waste of time, Maria needs to head to a tailor
>>
>>4381599
>Such a thing is a waste of time, Maria needs to head to a tailor
>>
Wouldn’t Maria go on full exterminatus mode on a pagan harvest goddess posing as a girl?
>>
>>4381641
She doesn’t know this about said girl, anon. ;)
>>
>>4381599
>Such a thing is a waste of time, Maria needs to head to a tailor
>>
>>4381599
>Such a thing is a waste of time, Maria needs to head to a tailor
>>
>>4381599
>Such a thing is a waste of time, Maria needs to head to a tailor
>>
Waste of time
>>4381600
>>4381615
>>4381625
>>4381637
>>4381698
>>4381729
>>4381872

Well the decision has been made, but the point was still made.
>>
File: maxresdefault.jpg (133 KB, 1280x720)
133 KB
133 KB JPG
Maria did not even think twice about her words, “Very well then, I am sure we will meet again.”

“Indeed we will.” the Merchant answered with a wave of his hand.

The couple soon traveled their way through the mobs of the market, the place become decidedly much less active as the day went along. Such was the trials of a Sunday, where most were aiming to get that Church going crowd before going home themselves for either evening service or just to rest for real.

In such a time Maria and Albert walked up to a small shop, the sign reading ‘Royal Tailors of the North’. There was the small ring of a bell as they opened, to which a modest looking man approached them.

“Ah, so it's that time already!” he called out with open arms, “It is a pleasure to see you again Albert, I ask you is this the Misses?”

“Uh, n-no.” Albert sqirmed out, “I am just going to the Ball with her.”

“What does the Misses herself say to that?” The man soon turned to Maria with a grin ear to ear.

“It is not inaccurate, I am simply the one taking him to the Ball.”

“You are….” The man seemed dumbfounded for a moment before barking off a laugh, “Oh I see what happened here. Well thats that I guess, name is Ponitier.”

“A pleasure to meet you.” Maria said while giving a short bow.

“Hehe, well in any case go through that door over there and my wife will get you all readied up. Measurements and all that.” He then approached Albert to talk it up a little bit more, though Maria had a guess it was just to distract the man from Maria. Of course that would be the case, as normally this gave their lovers free reign to spend all the money.

Soon enough Maria walked into a room with a soft but plain face woman, “Welcome, you must be Miss Regnia. I am Blair, the fool’s wife.”

“So you will be servicing me today?”

“Indeed I will, so please just relax for a few minutes. While you are, I advise you look at what we have displayed, as those we thought would best suit you.”

Taking her advice, Maria relaxed herself and allowed the measurements to be taken and looked at what they had out for all to see.

>A devilishly red dress that was oddly slim for Noble Clothing
>One with a slightly puffy skirt dyed in the color of a white with red stripes.
>A very modest, standard victorian dress which was all blue.
>Maybe Maria can request her own to be made *You guys describe it*
>>
>>4381945
I really wanna put Maria in this (minus the veil because that's too bridal), but if it doesn't get traction then put me down for

>One with a slightly puffy skirt dyed in the color of a white with red stripes.
Because it's the nice middle ground between being overly modest and being too slutty.
>>
>>4381959
Beautiful, supporting the idea
>>
File: EAgODs4X4AE-d8c.jpg (138 KB, 1200x1800)
138 KB
138 KB JPG
>>4381945
>>A devilishly red dress that was oddly slim for Noble Clothing
Something like this?
>>
File: preview.jpg (216 KB, 728x1169)
216 KB
216 KB JPG
>>4382004
and crossed with this. So, tight, clings to every part of our body and open at the back.
>>
>>4381945
Supporting >>4381959
>>
>>4381945
>A devilishly red dress that was oddly slim for Noble Clothing
>>4382019
Support
>>
>>4381945
>>A devilishly red dress that was oddly slim for Noble Clothing
>>
>>4381945
>A devilishly red dress that was oddly slim for Noble Clothing
>>
>>4381945
Minus veil and in red. I really like this dress though, so even if it doesn't win here I hope we can use it for our wedding.
>>
>>4381945
>A devilishly red dress that was oddly slim for Noble Clothing
>>
>>4382004
>>4382195
+1
Time to stun Chloe and everyone else
>>
>>4381945
>A devilishly red dress that was oddly slim for Noble Clothing
>>
>>4381945
>>A devilishly red dress that was oddly slim for Noble Clothing
>>
The Purple Headed by >>4381959
>>4381974
>>4382021

The Red, headed by >>4382195
>>4382004
>>4382019
>>4382043
>>4382071
>>4382087
>>4382130
>>4382245
>>4382255
>>4382267

You know, I was considering not having a vote on dresses as I saw them too many times in Otome. Now I am glad to have kept it in.

Hmm, now time to look into some artwork....
>>
Welp, internet went out. Post will be delayed to tomorrow it seems, hopefully I can get it out by morning
>>
>>4382358
ok, nighty night
>>
File: red.png (706 KB, 488x900)
706 KB
706 KB PNG
>>
>>4382417
Fit like a glove
>>
File: black.jpg (116 KB, 720x1584)
116 KB
116 KB JPG
>>
File: red_pink.jpg (103 KB, 564x806)
103 KB
103 KB JPG
>>
>>4382417
>>4382420
>>4382422
Fine additions, lurker anon
>>
File: red2.png (340 KB, 625x770)
340 KB
340 KB PNG
https://mangakakalot.com/read-co8yt158524540949

Souce
>>
File: white2.jpg (129 KB, 546x1346)
129 KB
129 KB JPG
I think we should go with white if we want to compete for title of saint.
>>
File: white.jpg (38 KB, 350x490)
38 KB
38 KB JPG
>>
>>
>>4382438
Interesting
>>
>>4382329
Choosing the nicest dresses for events is the best part of otome though.
>>
>>4382518
Albert and Maria at the ball
>>
>>
>>
>>4382545
>>
>>
File: dress 2.jpg (210 KB, 850x600)
210 KB
210 KB JPG
>>4382534
We're micromanaging Maria's wardrobe but we still haven't got a faceclaim for Albert?

Literally his major distinguishing trait is glasses, boy is dangerously close to turning into Shinpachi
>>
>>4382559
Well thats because I have yet to get into that Pandora's Heart Manga. I could not find the face in the first few chapters, and there are like 100+

>>4382417
>>4382420
>>4382422
>>4382438
>>4382440
>>4382441
>>4382444
>>4382518
>>4382534
>>4382544
>>4382545
>>4382546
>>4382547

Should I starve you of content more? Or maybe its just the kind of content?

IN any case Imma post this update now, there is a chance no Lunch Update will come, as I might be calling a mechanic. Who knows
>>
Maria looked over the clothing, one set was much too modest for her taste. The white one, while having a nice skirt was something that Maria would count as a little too innocent. She was a person who killed others after all, no matter what she was lesser to Chloe in that regard.

Thus her vision landed on the red dress, “I will take that one.”

“The red one? Are you sure about that, that is normally a style held by peasent girls.” The Tailor admitted.

“Cut the top a little bit then and then add some flirls to cover the scares.” Maria answered while her eyes already cutting out pieces of her own accord.

“Would that not show too much skin? Even if the winter has yet to settle you would surly get cold wearing something like that.”

“Then why not add some like a cloak to it.” The Kingslayer thought about her words a little bit more, “Though it should not touch the shoudlers. Those shall be exposed.”

“I… do not even know if I can do that.”

“You can’t?” Maria turned to the seamstress with a small bit of confusion in her mind. Then the next moment she realized something that should have been noted beforehand, that Maria was in abother era entirely. Why the Victorian style dress was still much more modest than well, Victoria. She mistaken that as Modesty, not as what it was.

Technology.

[Military Success]

“In that case simply use some metal.” Maria answered with a smirk, “If you do not own fabric firm enough to hold itself up, then we will use the next best thing. I am sure you will have plentty of funds for this endevor.”

“Well, I see no reason not to try then.” The woman snickered before taking a few more measurements around Maria’s waist. Since it was to be the most vital part of this operation, they took a few more moments while the woman wrote it all down.

With that over with, Maria emerged from the back to see a rather exhaughsted Albert sitting on a chair. The Tailor himself was simply sitting at the cash register with a devilish smile about him.

Assuming what happened Maria walked over to the poor man, “Ready to go Albert?”

“Yes, please…” He struggled to get up like a Zombie, but soon enough the two were traveling on the streets once again.

>Go to the nice Pub for the evening
>It would be a nice time to confirm Maria’s plots, would it not?
>Why not head back to the Academy, see if Melody can cook up something
>Other ideas for an evening activity?
>>
File: leo2.jpg (58 KB, 500x345)
58 KB
58 KB JPG
>>4382582
Oh are you going with Leo then?
Yeah he doesn't actually show up until a good chunk in, his page in the panora hearts wiki actually lists the main chapters he shows up in. Give me a bit and I can grab some pics.

>>4382583
>Go to the nice Pub for the evening
As might as I want to check in with Oskar, we can't risk being seen about him too much or Ford might put two and two together.

Plus we might as well wrap this date up with albert properly.
>>
>>4382583
>>Other ideas for an evening activity?
Picnic, and stargazing at an isolated part of the Park/Garden whatevs
>>
>>4382588
Support
>>
>>4382588
+1
>>
>>4382583
>Go to the nice Pub for the evening
>>
>>4382588
Support
>>
>>4382588
>>4382600
>>4382621
>>4382644

Picnic is it!
>>
“Was talking to that man so torturous?” Maria joked while they were traveling the remnants of the day’s market.

“He just would not stop having his fun with me.” Albert admitted with a sigh, “And here I was going to give them first go at the next shipment of textiles.”

“Well you should filfull your words atleast for this moment, I am sure those fabrics will be used in my dress.”

“What did you end up selecting anyways?”

Maria could not help but grow a coy smile to those words, “Well that's a secret you will find out later.”

“Really, well I hope my funds are not empty then.” Albert admitted with a sigh.

“Well we will see. The amount of cloth on it are minimal, so you will not be paying for that.” Maria laughed before going off to the side, “So how about we get some food together and have a small picnic. There are surely still enough stalls selling bread, sausage, and drink to go around.”

“A picnic?” Albert’s question only made Maria chuckle a little bit.

“Oh I do not need to explain that, instead I will show you.”

And like that the two gathered plenty of food for themselves. It was quite easy, considering people wanted to offload all their products before making their way home. With those things and a blanket Maria snatched, they soon traveled a little ways.

Since Maria modestly knew the area, the two of them went around until they found a nice place where the town’s wall was cut off by a river. A tranquil sight for sure, and as the town was small the setting sun and incoming stars were easly laid bare against their eyes.

>Simply enjoy a little bit of stargazing.
>Maybe snatch a fishing pole and fish for some more meat
>Simply talk amongst themselves
>Other calm tranquil activities?
>>
>>4382664
>Simply enjoy a little bit of stargazing.
>>
File: leo3(2).jpg (96 KB, 700x626)
96 KB
96 KB JPG
>>4382664
>Simply talk amongst themselves
Courting is getting to know each other (also no reason why they can't both talk and stargaze)

>looking for leo manga panels for albert faceclaim
>tfw 90% of his best looking panels are when he ditches the glasses and goes evil

....Maybe magical eye surgery exists in this world??? Also is Maria ever ditches him for Solomon then I've got you covered for crazed jilted albert reactions
>>
>>4382676
>>
>>4382664
>Simply talk amongst themselves
>>
>>4382664
>Simply talk amongst themselves
>>
File: library.jpg (472 KB, 781x1600)
472 KB
472 KB JPG
>>4382691
>>
>>4382664
>Simply talk amongst themselves
>>
File: huh.jpg (72 KB, 619x304)
72 KB
72 KB JPG
>>4382699
What he probably looked like when Maria recruited her henchmen postal network right in front of him.
>>
>>4382704
>>
>>4382664
>>Simply talk amongst themselves
>>
File: pinup.jpg (4.74 MB, 6063x3952)
4.74 MB
4.74 MB JPG
>>4382716
This has also given me a chance to appreciate Jun Mochizuki's art all over again damn
>>
>>4382676
>tfw 90% of his best looking panels are when he ditches the glasses and goes evil
Did evilness cures his eyesight ?
>>
File: evilbutpretty.jpg (350 KB, 1457x1201)
350 KB
350 KB JPG
>>4382747
Nah the glasses are a way to hide his eyes (which are magical). Him taking them off is followed by him embracing his powers and becoming an antagonist.

Also there's absolutely a higher quality image of this scene but I can't find it anywhere fuck.
>>
File: what.jpg (67 KB, 326x748)
67 KB
67 KB JPG
>>4382751
>>
File: he.jpg (83 KB, 430x652)
83 KB
83 KB JPG
>>4382753
>>
File: angry.jpg (271 KB, 734x917)
271 KB
271 KB JPG
>>4382756
>>
>>4382583
I'm half surprised we don't go half "Bookworm" on this world sometimes. Cheap paper/printing still isn't a thing yet I'd hazard. Let alone other mechanical technologies.

Then again, as a noble, these are not the kind of problems we'd notice.
>>
>>4382664
>Simply talk amongst themselves
>>
Soon enough the stars in the sky had settled amongst themselves without a sun to blot them out. As Maria looked up, there was that sense in knowing that she was someone from another realm. Simply the sight of the above was enough to tell her that, as each constellation was different from earth.

“Do you look up at the stars often?” Albert asked while taking out some bread to ear.

“Not really, I never really took the time to. Though, its hard not to admit that I do not enjoy it.” Maria admitted while pointing outside of the world, “Like what is that over there?”

“That? Orson the Eastern Bull.” Albert said off the top of his head.

“What about the bird looking one?”

“Akiv the Migrant.”

“The Beast?”


“And that?”

“The Letter of the North.”

“How do you know so many?” Maria finally asked, reaching over for her own serving of sausage.

“You learn to use them to get around.” The man pointed towards the bull, “That Bull is in the sky because is was said to have fought off Pegan invaders with its horns. It died, but thanks to its efforts the city of Ashgrove was saved.”

“So I take it stands eternally vigilant?”

“That's what they tell us.” He sighed while giving a long drawn out sigh, “Most people should know these. Do you by chance never see them?”

“What do you mean?” Maria asked while raising her brow.

“Well you see, these consiliations were placed there by the Lord. Thus, if you leave his realm they will change just as they would with the seasons.”

“Bullshit, that can’t be true.” Maria barked with a bit of annoyance.

“Well, I have been to the Miaphate once, and I can assure you the Symbol in the North was not there when I looked over the northern docks.”

>Stay on the same conversation.
>Hmm, maybe a little flirting is in order now
>Change topic to a look into the future
>A heavier focus on theology please
>>
>>4383163
>A heavier focus on theology please
Time to increase our church knowledge
>>
>>4383163
>Hmm, maybe a little flirting is in order now
>>
>>4383163
>Change topic to a look into the future
Peering into the heavens is a good atmosphere to talk about the future. Plus I do wanna know what he thinks about our future plans. (obvs don't spill the beans in public but make thinly veiled references to what we've talked about with the second prince's camp)
>>
>>4383163
>Stay on the same conversation.
>>
>>4383163
>Stay on the same conversation.
Also
>Maria finally asked, reaching over for her own serving of sausage.
Phrasing
>>
>>4383163
>Hmm, maybe a little flirting is in order now
>>
>>4383163
>Hmm, maybe a little flirting is in order now
>>
>>4383163
>Change topic to a look into the future
>>
Look into the Future
>>4383199
>>4383367

Little Flirting
>>4383184
>>4383329
>>4383358

Same Topic
>>4383178
>>4383200
>>4383286

Welp, that's a lot of ties. I'll work with this.
>>
>>4383163
>Change topic to a look into the future
>>
>>4383416
Well, fuck you too.
>>
>>4383418
>>
>>4383414
>>4383416
holy moly a three way
>>
>>4383163
>Hmm, maybe a little flirting is in order now
>>
>>4383163
>Hmm, maybe a little flirting is in order now
+a little future talk if possible
>>
“Is that so…” Maria looked the young man up and down for a moment before giving a sigh, “Very well, it does not look like you are lying.”

It seemed that something in those words seem to catch Albert’s attention, “Why would that be so hard to believe?”

“I… am still not used to how things work around here.” Maria said before shaking her head and taking a bite out of her meal, “But that simply means I need to learn a little bit more.”

“Well I think some Holy Men once said to never stop learning, so I guess thats right.” And with that Albert laid back a little bit with a relaxed sigh.

“Oh, now don’t go to sleep on me.” Maria said with a sinister smile upon her face, “It would be lousy walking back carrying you.”

“I won’t fall asleep, well, since the sun's still shining on me.” He said with a rather laidback smile.

While Maria felt a small blush herself, the girl wanted to one up him, “Is that so? That might make two of us then.” And with that she gave a small tap upon his nose.

And with those words Maria collapsed on the ground herself, taking in the air for just another moment. To Maria’s understanding of earth, the stars in the sky were entire systems upon themselves, each with their own little planets and if lucky enough life. However, was that true in this reality?

“I need to learn more.” Maria said without much thinking, “I am still ignorant about this world, and that ignorance is sure to strike me where I least expect it.”

“I mean, not knowing how the stars worked is pretty bad.” Albert admitted with a softening grin, “But are you sure about that? Learning too much can be both dangerous and unproductive.”

“But in my case it very much is worse if they. In the future I will be the ruler or a people, all of who will look up to be who was divinely ordained by the Lord. A moment of ignorance can lead to men dying, or opportunities lost. If I did not know the directions of the stars, I would lead an army into ruin.”

“Sounds like you need help.”

“Indeed, that is what I need.”

Albert simply shook his head, “I will not have much when it comes to inheritance. Like you know, I might get my hands on a branch node, but nothing more. I will be here to help you if you ever ask for it.”

>Give him a simple thank you
>A thank you, with a kiss on the cheek.
>An affirmation is about all Maria needs to give right now
>Other
>>
>>4383454
>A thank you, with a kiss on the cheek.
>>
>>4383454
>A thank you, with a kiss on the cheek.
>>
>>4383454
>Give him a simple thank you
>>
>>4383454
>Give him a simple thank you
He's smooth, but not yet.
>>
>>4383454
>A thank you, with a kiss on the cheek.

>If I did not know the directions of the stars, I would lead an army into ruin.
Make a compass dummy
>>
>>4383454
>>A thank you, with a kiss on the cheek.
>>
>>4383454
>A thank you, with a kiss on the cheek.
Leave him wanting for more
>>
>>4383454
>Write-in
Fuck him here now.
Let's commit a little bit of heresy
>>
>>4383454
>Give him a simple thank you
>>
>>4383454
>A thank you, with a kiss on the cheek.
>>
>>4383454
>A thank you, with a kiss on the cheek.
continue and fuck
>>
File: shout.jpg (49 KB, 450x337)
49 KB
49 KB JPG
>>4383454
>A thank you, with a kiss on the cheek.

Wow the capture target in Albert just jumped out. That sun line was as smooth as silk phew
>>
>>4383454
>A thank you, with a kiss on the cheek.
>>
A simple kiss on the cheek
>>4383464
>>4383473
>>4383496
>>4383505
>>4383522
>>4383618
>>4383620
>>4383632
>>4383735

A simple thank you
>>4383480
>>4383482
>>4383599

Lets just fuck him
>>4383597
>>
The smooth running of water next to them and the stars above, it was quite the sight. For Maria, such words were something she could be thankful for, and even made her feel a little off in her heart.

He has helped Maria a lot too, enough that her schemes these days hinge on him. As such, why would she not reward him.

“Thank you, for all that you have done for me.” Maria moved over and gave the man a soft kiss on the cheek.

Its not like she is liking him or anything else.

Maria watched as the man’s face became as red as a flaming coal in a blacksmith’s forge. Maria could swear that there was actual steam coming off of it, but at least they were only human. Still, it gave her quite the laugh.

The two stayed there in silence for a little bit, simply admiring the moon above their heads. Such a thing was only half full, most likely going to fill out by the time of the Ball. That only left a small wonder in Maria mind of what kind of trials they will face then.

For now however, she simply relaxed.

At least, she would have been if there were not sounds coming from the woods nearby.

“Tsk, what in the name of the Lord is that?” She called out in anger, getting quickly off the grassy lands.

“I… do not want to know.” Albert mentioned with a small bit of fear in his voice, “Are we being stalked by wolves?”

“I would find it quite hard for wolves to be this close to civilization. At least, not when there is a wall keeping them out.”

Curiosity getting the better of them, the Couple inched their way towards the sounds. However, as they did the sounds were obviously not wolves. Neither really wanted to admit that, so no words were exchanged. Before entering the forest, Albert himself simply stopped with a face redder than even when Maria kissed him.

Because it was pretty obvious what was happening.

Maria could only slap herself in the face as she broke through the cover, to of course see a pair of young adults with clothes ruined, well, having a nice go at one another. Identities were quite obvious, though Lisa being on top was probably a side effect of the drugs given to her.

>Just get some guards over to break them up, both for ruining Maria’s date and to finish the man off.
>Make her presence known, to of course blackmail the two of them
>You know, Maria has some meat in her basket still, in the middle of the woods, and those two will probably keep at if for a few ours…
>Just walk away and let the aftermath happen, though what this benefits Maria she will see
>>
>>4383793
>Just get some guards over to break them up, both for ruining Maria’s date and to finish the man off.
>>
Can someone remind who is a guy that is fucking that girl and how we are related?
>>
>>4383793
>Just get some guards over to break them up, both for ruining Maria’s date and to finish the man off.
>>4383810
The guy would be Johnson, the one who went to a date with her the day we tempered with their food through a chef
>>
>>4383810
>>4383825

Its Oskar...
>>
>>4383850
I was expecting the other guy because of the last time we saw two, but if it’s Oskar... they’re gonna be expelled after the guards get them, right ?
>>
>>4383793
>Just get some guards over to break them up, both for ruining Maria’s date and to finish the man off.
>>
>>4383793
>Just walk away and let the aftermath happen, though what this benefits Maria she will see
>>
File: leo reading.jpg (86 KB, 596x720)
86 KB
86 KB JPG
>>4383793
>>Just get some guards over to break them up, both for ruining Maria’s date and to finish the man off.
Wait are they both under the effects of the drugs? I thought we were only going to drug Oskar this time around.

It doesn't look like he's forcing himself on her due to the mind manipulator, so either Lisa was drugged and the two potions mixed badly or she's still under the effects of the first potion.

Hopefully this will get Oskar kicked out, so he won't get the crown.

>Its not like she is liking him or anything else.
Maria honey you're fooling no one here
>>
>>4383793
>You know, Maria has some meat in her basket still, in the middle of the woods, and those two will probably keep at if for a few ours…
>>
>>4383793
>Just get some guards over to break them up, both for ruining Maria’s date and to finish the man off.
>>
>>4383898
>or, so either Lisa was drugged and the two potions mixed badly or she's still under the effects of the first potion.
The later
>>
>>4383793
>Make her presence known, to of course blackmail the two of them
>>
>>4383793
>Make her presence known, to of course blackmail the two of them
>>
>>4383793
>You know, Maria has some meat in her basket still, in the middle of the woods, and those two will probably keep at if for a few ours…
>>
>>4383793
>Make her presence known, to of course blackmail the two of them

Question is what do we want as our end goal. We were preparing for war and as of right now we could crush them. But what if we would took different approach.

What Im wondering is if we could force him to be our vassal if not strong ally that in future would turn into commonwealth do to marriage between our kids or kids of our brother.

Then with strong alliance here and with teutonic knights also help from second prince faction we could easily flip all of the other territories.

After that we could use newly acquired wealth from out marriage for brides to stabilise region and ensure their loyalty.

After that we could announce crusade against dickheads that kidnapped us.

Thoughts?
>>
>>4383793
>You know, Maria has some meat in her basket still, in the middle of the woods, and those two will probably keep at if for a few ours…
>>
Simply have them Expelled
>>4383798
>>4383825
>>4383882
>>4383898
>>4383919

Lets see what kind of blackmail we can get
>>4383934
>>4383942
>>4384039

Lets just set them up for the wolves
>>4383907
>>4384053
>>4384037

You know I am a little sad the Murder didn't win, but I do not mind that, Things are going to get a little bit more fun.
>>
>>4384066
Now I understood the meat option, you’re brutal man
>>
Above all that Maria was feeling, it was the idea of annoyance that was getting to her. The poisons that Maria had fed to them should not have done this, but here she having them interrupt her affairs.

“Tsk.” With a motion Maria turned around and walked towards Albert with an angered worn glare, “Come on, we need to take care of these fools.”

Quickly she grabbed Albert’s and the two marched off towards the front gate. The guards of course were not really surprised at two youngsters being out at night. However Maria walking right towards them without even a sense of shame was enough to make them do a double take.

“You two.” She growled with annoyance, “Over there are two Nobles fucking about like rabbits. Break the idiots up before the girl’s pregnant with triplets.”

[Royal Demeanor/Military Success]

“God damn them.” the two said before leaving to examine the woods Maria pointed out. While normally guards would care less what people fuck, these men were on the pay roll of the church. Thus such a thing could never be ignored.

Though as they went away, Maria felt her mood get even more sour as she turned around to see a small faint glow of gold flying towards her. However within the first few moments of her eyes catching the glow, it had dived into the other direction.

And a moment later Maria was looking right at Chloe, a small fear on her face. Next to her was a more pale First Prince, whose eyes were in the direction of the flying thing.

“M-Miss Regnia!” Chloe called out with a small bit of fear, quickly making her way towards the other couple, “Have you, uh, seen Miss Lisa and Mr. Oskar. They are, uh, a girl with brown hair while the other is a man wearing light furs.”

“Why in the name of the Lord are you looking for them?” Maria asked with a nice hint of annoyance.

“Well, I was helping Mr. Oskar on his date until after the dinner. They seemed to have been having such a lovely time, but we lost them on the way back to the Academy!”

>Tell her where they are, best to not get in her way
>Give them a false direction, one that hopefully will fool both of them.
>Simply declare Maria is heading back to the Academy, and the two shall have their fates decided
>>
>>4384089
>Next to her was a more pale First Prince, whose eyes were in the direction of the flying thing.
there's something odd here
>“Well, I was helping Mr. Oskar on his date until after the dinner. They seemed to have been having such a lovely time, but we lost them on the way back to the Academy!”
Thank you Chloe, now your friend is trapped in a deeper hole
>Simply declare Maria is heading back to the Academy, and the two shall have their fates decided
>>
File: leo4.jpg (112 KB, 564x642)
112 KB
112 KB JPG
>>4384089
>Tell her where they are, best to not get in her way
Gives us an excuse to tag along with them - I really want to know what the fuck that glowing thing was, and if its related to the couple (a tracker? can either Chloe or the Prince do magic?)
>>
>>4384089
>Give them a false direction, one that hopefully will fool both of them.
>>
>>4384096
>a tracker? can either Chloe or the Prince do magic?
I don't think is it since they asked for directions, but your idea is good, anon
>>
>>4384089
>Tell her where they are, best to not get in her way
I'm curious to see how this works out.
>>
>>4384089
>Golden thingy
I see Ford is stepping up his game in terms of surveillance.
>>
File: mussed 2.jpg (136 KB, 771x826)
136 KB
136 KB JPG
>>4384103
Chloe looked freaked out, my guess is they were following the glowing thing to the couple but had to make an excuse when they ran into Maria.
>>
>>4384089
>>Tell her where they are, best to not get in her way
>>
>>4384089
>Simply declare Maria is heading back to the Academy, and the two shall have their fates decided
>>
>>4384089
>Tell her where they are, best to not get in her way
>>
>>4384089
>Give them a false direction, one that hopefully will fool both of them.
>>
>>4384089
>Simply declare Maria is heading back to the Academy, and the two shall have their fates decided
>>
>>4384089
>Tell her where they are, best to not get in her way
>>
>>4384089
>Simply declare Maria is heading back to the Academy, and the two shall have their fates decided
>>
>>4384089
>Simply declare Maria is heading back to the Academy, and the two shall have their fates decided
>>
Fuck off Chloe
>>4384194
>>4384093
>>4384388
>>4384392
>>4384132

Truth shall set them into misery
>>4384096
>>4384105
>>4384126
>>4384137
>>4384324

Lie, because fuck Chloe
>>4384102
>>4384142

Well, this is quite the split vote. In this case, I will actually choose the Fuck Off Chloe option as it makes the most sense.
>>
File: Giving off order.png (211 KB, 376x411)
211 KB
211 KB PNG
“Tsk, they are simply being idiots.” Maria bitched while making her way past the two lovers, “We will be heading back to the Academy.”

“W-w” The girl looked to be on the verge of a minor panic at Maria’s words, “Why would you be so mean. They might get hurt if we don’t help them!”

“Because I do not care to help them.” Maria barked while turning to look the other right in the eyes, “Their fates are now in the Lord’s hands. If they are lucky enough, they will get out of this with only a few scratches and a donation to the Church.”

“Oh no!” Panic filled Chloe’s voice as Maria watched Lucien place his hands on the girl’s shoulders. Soon enough the man’s gaze turned towards Maria, the look of what amounts to hatred filling his eyes.

“We will be off. Goodbye, oh great Golden Couple.”

And like that Maria and Albert left the area, Maria leading the other by the hand. Such an odd turn of events, but such was expected of the circumstances. Maria did not actually have a relationship with the Prince, only a moment in which he put his trust in her. However things have gone much farther away from such a time of thought.

Though as they left, Maria’s vision soon centered at a golden speck far off from herself. Her vision was off at first, as she could now tell what it was.

A bird, golden in feathers and small in form. Somehow even in this faint moon’s light it shined brilliantly into the world. It was clearly Chloe’s bird, the one everyone had seen while Maria hadn’t even seen its golden tail.

Such a thing however was studying her, with a kind of intelligence only a human should have.

However now was not the time for Maria to be caring about Birds or Heroines. She simply wanted to go back to the Academy, chat with Melody for a little before getting a good’s night’s rest.

Because in the coming week was the Ball, and soon after winter. In such a cold unforgiving time, the mountains might come alive prepared for war.

And for the deserts, well a young man was weighing his options with silver and gold.
>>
File: tenor.gif (199 KB, 220x153)
199 KB
199 KB GIF
Well that's it for this thread I think. Next thread shall be on Monday or early Tuesday.
>>
>>4384607
>Soon enough the man’s gaze turned towards Maria, the look of what amounts to hatred filling his eyes.
now it's officially over, but it was a matter of time after all
>>4384610
See you soon dude
>>
>>4384616
We never stood a chance in the first place.
>>
>>4384610
Meta question for the ball. What is Maria’s breast size? And how does it compare to Chloe’s and some of the other girls?
>>
File: D3NiwemU4AAPO7P.jpg (264 KB, 1500x971)
264 KB
264 KB JPG
>>4384937
...

I have been trying to make that decision. Now do I give Anons the ability to chose. Well, this is a quest where you guys make the decision.

I will say this, I hold the right to choose otherwise if whatever you guys choose is too outrageous. (Essentially no Cow please)

>Use the picture.
>>
>>4385054
>Mega milk
Albert isn't gonna know what hit him at the ball >>4382534
>>
>>4385054
Somewhere between milk and mega milk. Kilomilk?
>>
>>4385054
>>4385073
This sounds good.
>>
>>4385054
Supporting >>4385073
>>
>>4385054
Mega milk like this >>4382195
>>
>>4385073
This
>>
>>4385073
Supporting >>4382019
>>
>>4385054
Mini milk
>>
>>4385073
Support.
>>
>>4383496
That doesn't work at night unless you have darkvision or you want the enemy to see you coming.
>>
>>4385073
+1
>>
>>4384607
The bird is clearly the wizard dude in disguise.
>>
>>4385054
Lactose intolerant. The reason statues of Mary look the way they do is because petite was considered the perfect breast size back then and as Mary was the mother of Jesus, she obviously had to have perfect tites.
>>
>>4385054
>>4385073
>>
>>4385241
But I think they a little bigger than that
>>
>>4385293
Probably in between regular and petite on that chart? Not that it matters since my vote is clearly gonna lose.

The stars not working properly is gonna annoy the shit out of us. It gives me more than a few questions on how it works. I think we'd have noticed if a horizon ceased to exist so the earth still has to be round. Next step is to observe eclipses. Then try to map out planets or figure out if some of the constellations are peculiar moons that match the earth's rotation? Geocentric model?

It would be pretty funny if we end up with the bad end, but all the science/etc advancements we accidentally leave around because something irked us ends up turning us into a Leonardo da Vinci taken before her time in the history books and demonizing Chloe/Lucien as a result.
>>
>>4385319
Tbh your comment about the Holy Mary got me thinking and I kinda remembered the statues painting her boob a lil bigger than the one you suggested. Just that bro
>>
>>4385073
The key to the perfect tit size is how it melds with the rest of the body. Certain physiques are best paired with certain sized breasts. This is why despite being a titty man even I can enjoy petite women when the balance is well struck. What I am trying to say is. Good tastes I think that balance works best with Maria's physique. Though I could be wrong.

>>4385319
Gunpowder also doesn't work here while alchemy still does. Medical knowledge also still works considering how we killed the Miaph through heavy metal poisoning. In theory econmic knowledge should also still be viable. I don't know about engineering though. As clearly the rules of chemistry here are fucked.
>>
>>4385752
Endo and exothermic reactions still exist as fire exists. If we prove Heated air rises above cooler air, and can be used to expand objects, then exothermic expansion is possible. Which means explosives and nu-gunpowder should eventually be possible.
We oughta learn the new dynamics of acids and bases too at some point. Bookworm level of tech should be exploitable at minimum. Distillation, filtering, n sieves are doable. With the alchemy book plus basic chemistry know how, discovering a few new chemicals should eventually come to pass.

At the very least, blimp travel can come to pass.
>>
>>4385844
Let's do this and create the first airline in the kingdom. Blimp Mckain Industries Aviation
>>
>>4385844
Also should we create a lot of ideas in our notebook? And we should make a lot of copies on it in case the book was labeled as heretical.
>>
>>4385844
The trouble with blimps is how heavy the fabric will be which is what restricted such technology for the longest time. The QM himself stated gunpowder wouldn't work early on. This is why I said chemistry is fucked here considering how simple and key its underlying principles are yet there is some kind of alternative in Alchemy as we recently discovered. If we want blimps we would have to come up with some new lightweight fabric alternative which is the biggest restriction.

Without working chemistry systems though we can't develop hardly any of the technologies for advanced industries, material sciences, or anything else. Chemistry is vital for the production and treatment of certain materials required for advanced technology. We are lucky medicine still works just fine. Its why Maria's poisons are so deadly and without any cure.

I am unsure what kind of explosive material(NOTgunpowder) we can still find considering the QM not wanting something so gamebreaking. Which while understandable is certainly a pain. In theory I think can use magic as an alternative if it wasn't for how annoyingly weak it has become. Maybe some magitech might be possible.

>>4385911
It's technically written in a different language from our previous life. All of Marias secrets and most important stuff are written like that for that precise reason.
>>
>>4385927
We would probably have to learn alchemy first to get a framework in which we can apply our science knowledge.

I'm very interested in it at least. Also makes a good fallback in case our saint stuff falls through, since Chloe is our gods chosen.
>>
>>4385933
We can't really afford to give up the saintess stuff as its the only way to keep Chloe from dominating the Church and turning them against us. If we lose the Church we are fucked. The only reason the nobles and royals are willing to back off is due to our Kingslayer title even with Chloe's influence. If we manage to keep our influence in the Church and back the warmongers Chloe can't use the Church against us. Without us, the Warmongers in the Church would get fucked by Chloe, and then she can easily turn the Church against us. So far Maria has been sucking up to the Church so much precisely because she knew Chloe is a Saintess and can win the church over to turn against us. Luckily we lucked out with becoming a saintess candidate and making some initial deals with the warmongers. Which will save both our asses once Chloe comes out as a Saintess. Hence the importance of the Church to us cannot be understated if we wanna live. Even Chloe's winning over the first prince is limited usefulness because the rest of them are too fearful of Maria's ability...so long as she doesn't win over the goddamn church completely. Our life hinges on being able to nullify enough of Chloe's future backing that she can't just crush us. So far we have half of it but we still need the other half.

You are right about the learning alchemy though. It will tell us exactly how much magic is involved with its mysticism allowing us to decipher how much science we can get away with. So far we know medical knowledge still works as intended. It won't work as a fallback though if we lose the church. It will just tell us how much scientific knowledge we can get away with adapting.
>>
>>4385947
You are mixing up the church and saint stuff. Just because we don't have our gods backing doesn't mean we don't have the churches. Basically magic faith powers aren't a requirement for influence with the church.

And frankly trying to beat a champion of a god at being more favored is not a winning idea.
>>
>>4385844
I'm personally surprised at how gunpowder doesn't work since abusing gunpowder is one of the most basic things about alchemy in our world. (Use it to generate smoke from "nowhere")
At the least this changes a ton about whatever is going on in NotChina. (Or means they developed some sort of firework magic?)

This whole dragging souls down from the heavens thing needs figuring out too. If Chloe is really the final end version of us that got the past memories erased like another anon postulated, this alchemy dude is basically kidnapping people's souls and wiping them out for whatever the sake of his mad experiments are. Sounds highly heretical.

>>4385947
That and the whole heathen gods out to kill us thing. You do bring up a somewhat good point that Chloe not keeping her church backers in line (aka letting them excommunicate us as part of their plots) in the future is tantamount to a murder attempt.
>>
>>4385954
>>4385957
It's not about beating her in terms of favored but keeping enough influence that she can't overwhelm us. yeah, I forgot the heathen gods who want us dead too. In truth, it's probably the biggest reason why we gained our God's favor in the first place considering how much we pissed off his enemies. Either way we have to maintain a strong influence in the Church if we wanna live. Its why anons decided to team up with the warmongers as it was our best bet.

Once we counter her Church influence we will be able to stay alive. Chloe will no longer have the influence needed to get us killed.

Yeah, apparently gunpowder doesn't work here. Neither does astrophysics apparently. So both chemistry and physics knowledge is unreliable. Thanks to losing the wonders of chemistry for materials development. Engineering and other advanced tech are also fucked in some capacity. At this point we are lucky medical knowledge still counts. Though we should also study up on economics as in theory that stuff should also still be good.
>>
>>4385970
>It's not about beating her in terms of favored but keeping enough influence that she can't overwhelm us.
But it is when we would bind our skills to being a saintess. If the god decides to not get involved in our spat with Chloe we can't use any supernatural powers to help us. Unless we actually invest time in acquiring them separately by looking into alchemy and sorcery.
>>
>>4385970
Basically don't place all eggs into one basket.
>>
>>4385970
The stars think irked me enough that I think it's just that we are on a geocentric world. Figuring out how TF the sun is supposed to work here seems like the hardest part. (mostly due to the ridiculousness of something with that much gravity orbiting a planet with much less gravity or a tiny sun putting out enough heat without also scorching misc planets in the way.)
Or there's a really bored god that's stuck carrying the sun around orbit all the time?

If it's geocentric then there's probably far more eclipses than normal too since it puts far more things in the way that can make a shadow?
>>
>>4385887
>>4385911
>>4385927
>>4385957
Well we can figure out the nature of fire at least.
Fire exists as a magical construct, so exothermic reactions may be linked to magic. A good place to start and figure out any connections.
>>
Next thread:
>>4387149

Also, I assume I don't need to count that Kilomilk won.



Delete Post: [File Only] Style:
[Disable Mobile View / Use Desktop Site]

[Enable Mobile View / Use Mobile Site]

All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective parties. Images uploaded are the responsibility of the Poster. Comments are owned by the Poster.