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“Thank you very much for the meal Melody.” Maria answered to her maid as the plate was settled ontop of her study.

“You are welcome Mistress.” The one called answered back with a coy smile, “Indeed having a good amount of meats and fruit will do your mind quite well won’t it.”

“I would not really call it balanced.” Maria admitted with a slight chuckle, “But it was good. Thank you for grabbing it for me.”

“Oh, you’re welcome mistress.” She answered back with a bright red blush.

Maria enjoyed watching Melody’s aloofness for the moment, as it was indeed something. Honestly in her opinion, she could easily see why men would fall for their own maids, when these women take care of them on a near daily basis. However such a thing was quite silly to Maria, as she simply shined a modest smile.

“Well it is time for me to leave, is it not?”

“Indeed, I do not think being a little early would hurt your chances.” Melody admitted while quickly preparing a series of cloth onto Maria.

“Indeed, though why are you putting so many layers on me now?”

“Its getting quite chilly out there Mistress. I have heard rumors that we will be covered by a layer of snow soon.”

“Snow already? I guess its close to that time of year.” Maria answered before rising from her chair and collecting her bags, “I will be off then.”

“Oh, understood Mistress.” The Maid lowered the another layer of cloth and gave a short bow, “I will pray for your luck.”

“Thank you very much, Melody.” Maria answered before taking a step out of the door and through the dormitory. She was outside soon enough, and Melody was not joking about things becoming quite frost bitten. However, it was really not a problem for Maria in her honest opinion.

Soon enough she was within her Military Class where she would be left to fight the coming Exam. Oh what she should do about it indeed…

>Alright, honestly can’t come up with any decisions so just give me a die roll. d100, Bo3, roll low.

Damn sorry for being so late with this, but my midday was taken up. Exams and Projects, what can I say.

Rolled 12 (1d100)

>>4452826

Rolled 77 (1d100)

>>4452826
>>4452829
I feel you OP, classes have returned to me as well
>>4452844
Glad to see we didn’t lose our sharpness

Rolled 97 (1d100)

>>4452826

>>4452871
We suck

>>4452883
It's best of three, so we aren't that bad.

>>4452887
i thought lowest of three?

>>4452897
>Alright, honestly can’t come up with any decisions so just give me a die roll. d100, Bo3, roll low.
Bo3=Best of three. Low is good. So yes the lowest/best roll is taken.

Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>4452826

>>4452844
So if anyone tries to make the guards apprehend us, this preemptively counts as an intimidation roll before we even find out what's going on?

>>4453068
this roll is for the test dude, what are you talking about ?

>tfw we are Elsa in a kingdom of ever frosting land

Do you wanna build a snowman, Maria?

>>4453098
It's a practical test. As in people are gonna see how hard we stomped on our exam.

>>4453098
What they mean is that we did so well on the fighting class that everyone who knows about it will be intimidated.
It's military class though and even the best tactician is probably not that intimidating.

>>4453101
I was thinking we got wrapped in so many layers by Melody that we turned into a ball of fluff waddling around.
How does our cold resistance work? It take longer for us to feel the cold, do we "run hot" and start steaming if we make snow angels, lower sustainable body temperature,it give us a weakness to high temperature to make daddy wrecking a dragon even more impressive? Normally i'd think it's something mundane but Kers basically proves people naturally have some magical superhuman traits in this world.

>>4453235
Apparently, dipping on a frozen lake is considered "normal temperature" in Maria sense.

>>4453367
>Come on Albert, the water isn't that really cold.
>Maria in her bathing suit tailored by someone which is very scandalous in it's own era urging a freezing Albert's whose chittering on it's own teeth
>M-ma-maria, h-how c-ca-can you not f-felt t-this?
>Huh? It's just a normal day Albert. The only cold thing would happen is when it's going to have a snow blizzard.
>Albert in his poor state collapsed in front of Maria. Later, he got a high fever it took him 2 weeks to fully recover.

The paper was passed around to everyone to see, every student holding in their breath in anticipation. For Maria herself, well it was dumb to not be in agreement with everyone else. If one were to take tests like this too lightly, it would surely bite them in the behinds.

However as the sheet of paper was placed infront of Maria she realized it was even easier than she thought. Picking up her quil, she began to make markings on the sheets of paper that were presented to her.

What shall one do when the day after, an enemy is found among the corpses?

B. Take him for Ransom, but do not harm him.

The enemy has been attacking you from the forest all day, what shall be your form of retaliation?

C. Draw them out into open fields and then strike.

How does the Lord bless War?

A. By granting all who die Heaven, lest they be a heretic or heathen.

With that Maria gathered up her papers, enjoying the ideas that were swarming infront of her. She will admit some of these things can be extremely subjective and on the situation, but all in all it was a modest class for everyone. Just a simple thing to keep in mind is that when fighting, being unpredictable is also a good idea.

“Here you do sir.” Maria handed over the small piece of paper to the older man with a calm smile.

“Thank you very much Regnia.” Sir Helmsworth answered with a smile, “I trust that this might be the best test I will see yet.”

“Indeed it will be, I guarantee it.” Maria admitted not so humbly.

“Well you are free to go then.”

With that Maria left the room, lunch time being near. However she was also early in finishing it, so she was likely to beat anyone wherever she went. Oh well though, thats what she gets for a Childhood in such a endangered realm.

>Head towards the Study, where Maria can play a prank on the Prince and Co.
>Why not see how the Gossipers are doing, making some tea while she’s at it.
>Just walk around Campus, if nothing else than to explore in the cold weather.

>>4453424
>Why not see how the Gossipers are doing, making some tea while she’s at it.

>>4453424
>Why not see how the Gossipers are doing, making some tea while she’s at it.
The middle of exams are no time for pranks.

A shame I can't think of how we'd find a private investigator to hire. We need to look into Chloe's background to see if there's a spooky origin story or she was adopted after the real original Chloe Loveheart died as a baby..

>>4453424
>Why not see how the Gossipers are doing, making some tea while she’s at it.

>>4453424
>Just walk around Campus, if nothing else than to explore in the cold weather.

>>4453424
>Why not see how the Gossipers are doing, making some tea while she’s at it.

>>4453424
>Write-in
>Look around for the biggest pile of snow preferably hidden away from people. Look around suspiciously then jump and make a snow angel. It's one of the best destressing after a hectic test.....even though it's an easy one.


If Ford or any from the first prince faction is watching us play like a child will be a boob because we know how to have fun.

Speaking of snow... snowball fight on the school when? We must drag Fein Kers on this and make forts out of snow and make a snowball wars.

Also no Chloe allowed. She ruins the fun with her birds.

Gossip
>>4453435
>>4453454
>>4453455
>>4453524

Snowball fight?
>>4453471
>>4453572

While being outside would be modestly alright, and playing a joke upon the men would be a silly time, Maria had other things to do. Indeed there was one group of people who Maria had not talked to in a little while, and she surely was not going to make them wait any longer.

So with that Maria made her way indoors, the feeling of warmth going over her body. It was not very hard, but Maria gathered a tea kettle and some slices of bread and placed them all in the middle of the table.

Soon enough, to Maria’s expectations, Elizabeth came out in front of her, “Oh Maria, I was not expecting you. Is that tea?”

“Indeed it is.” Maria answered while handing her a small glass filled with spiced water, “It’s getting quite cold out there would you not agree?”

“Yes it is indeed.” She said before accepting the glass into her hands.

With that the other two came in, Erica placing her head upon the table with Tracy simply sinking into her seat. Maria did not even bother saying anything, instead giving the two women a glass of tea each without any questions asked.

“Thank you…” Erica mumbled before downing the drink, “Oh its so warm.”

“Did the Faith Exam not come out very well?” Elizabeth asked with a raised brow.

“It was pretty hard.” Tracy said with a more melancholy look, “I think Erica would agree that half the things on the exam we did not even cover in class.”

The two looked at the other, who gave a nod in confirmation. Indeed it looks to be a troublesome time.

“Any idea why?” Was about all Maria could give to them.

“Maybe hes an senile old man.” Erica mouthed off before receiving a small slap from Elizabeth.

>Try and scry some more information about the test, to see if Maria can get an advantage.
>Get them all warmed up so we can get a more normal subject to gossip about.
>Maybe Maria can edge this conversation towards *What?*

>>4453793
My guess would be it was not only a test of how good they can learn, but also how faithful they are in learning about their faith on their own.

>>4453793
>Get them all warmed up so we can get a more normal subject to gossip about.
Let's ease the tension in their minds

>>4453793
Sounds like the inquisitors are hardore and took control of the test? Or the teacher expected us to learn more than they learn in class. Or they're trying to not look bad in front of the inquisitors by having a low personal standard to throw the students under the bus.
>>4453799
Elric's faction are mostly 3rd years. They'd know about stuff like that and have warned everyone during the study session if the books weren't obviously beyond what we learned in class.
>>4453793
>Get them all warmed up so we can get a more normal subject to gossip about.
Before we leave we also gotta:
>The faith exam is troubling news, to be sure, were you two not distracted when we were studying, then it means there was somebody with an agenda or more rigorous requirements has shown up that outranked the teachers. Redouble your efforts to publicly show your faith and be careful of your words. Somebody might be looking for excuses to expel or fail students for not loving the Lord enough in their eyes.

>>4453793
>Get them all warmed up so we can get a more normal subject to gossip about.

>>4453793
>>Get them all warmed up so we can get a more normal subject to gossip about.

>>4453793
>Get them all warmed up so we can get a more normal subject to gossip about.

More of dat gossip!
>>4453804
>>4453815
>>4453887
>>4454035
>>4454068

Maria waited around for a moment as everyone started to finish up with cups of tea. Of course such things were not a drug, but simply warming these women up from the dreadful cold outside was enough to loosen their lips to give Maria a good amount of material.

“So, have you heard, a group of Morseman came through.” Stacy mentioned while using the attempt to get Erica out of her funk.

“Morsemen? Didn’t they take out one of the local bandits?” Elizabeth mentioned with a raised brow, “Something about taking everything they had and not even leaving the bodies behind.”

“Ugh, they are brutes I guess.” Erica claimed with a shaking of her head, “I’ve heard here up north someones been asking around. Actually, I think they were asking about you Maria.”

The Kingslayer could not help but furrow her brows, “Myself? Why would they be doing that?”

“Well I heard that willy Loveheart did some kind of sorcery in front of the Headmaster and a few Cardinals. Didn’t she come from that area?” Stacy realised without much thought.

“She is.” Maria backed up that claim with some remembrance, “I met her lord while I was over there. Nice fellow he was.”

“Huh, maybe the Inquisition is checking on the Witch’s origin, though do you know why they’d be asking about you Maria?”

“I… will need to think on that for now.” Maria answered before shaking her head, “Has there been anything about the First Prince recently?”

“Yup, I heard hes taking that dreadful girl home with him.” Stacy answered with a disgusted expression, “I still don’t see what that man sees in her?”

“None will never know.” Maria admitted while rising from her seat, “It does not matter now, ladies, for it is time for our next exam. I wish you all luck.”

“Don’t worry, we won't disappoint you!” Erica said, finally back to her old self.

As for Maria, it was time for her to complete her Economics Exams. Oh joy…

>Roll d100s, Bo3, roll low!

Rolled 85 (1d100)

>>4454152
Lucky smol

Rolled 56 (1d100)

>>4454152
Panic! Maria is shit in numbers department.

>>4454185
Finally. Thanks for calming my kokoro, senpai

Rolled 79 (1d100)

>>4454152
it's time to
f f f f fail

>>4454188
what's really funny is she's one of the few on campus actually running businesses.Perhaps she should take a better interest in the economic prospects of her delivery service.

Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>4454152

>>4454210
It’s a best of 3 buddy, but we appreciate your enthusiasm

Rolled 59 (1d100)

>>4454225
Here anon. My roll that is lowest of them all.

>>4454152
Something is not right. They shouldn't know Chloe did anything yet and they shouldn't be framing it as sorcery unless somebody heard us talking last night.
Or have we been underestimating the gossip networks?
>>4454185
We probably take too long doing math on an abacus or whatever.

>>4454338
Our skill in economics is 65. A 56 should be enough to succeed for us.

It was not terribly long, however Maria ended up with a modest amount of worry the moment she saw the first few questions. Sometimes she did wonder if she really needed to know these kind of things, but of course they were ringing somewhat true to what she already understood about economics in the modern world.

Upon which side does one need to place their debts?

B. The Right Side

What are the benefits to a stable tax to citizens

A.Reliability upon a Citizen’s payment

How much funding has this enterprise cost the King compared to the amount of loot scored?

500 Tristan Gold?

Yeah Maria was good with concepts, however she was not going to reliably compete when it came to trying to figure out totals. Looking around, it seems the class was also struggling, sans for the few who actually knew how to use abacus it seemed. Simply put Maria would mark that down as something she needed to learn.

“Tests are over, please bring them all to the front.” Announced the Professor without even a quam in his voice.

“Tsk, atleast it’s finished.” Maria mumbled before following the man’s directions. With that over with she was out the door before anyone else.

As Maria went outside, the cold once again tried to bite into her skin. She could feel it attempt, but honestly it was nothing too bothersome for her. Maybe it was something like near Zero temperatures she would begin to bother, but honestly like this there was no problems.

She was about to make her way towards the cafeteria for some kind of dinner, but the clattering of swords drew her attentions quite easily.

“My my, you are quite good.” announced a knight who was sparing with another.

“Of course I am, I have been training for my Mistress for months!” Announced the other as he quickly did a feint.

“Honorable, but let us see how you can perform. Hya!”

“Hya!”

And like that Maria watched the enemy’s sword fly into the air, settling right next to Victor. Said Knight picked it up and handed it towards his opponent in a sign of faith, “So, I guess I did good?”

“Pff, you did more than good kid. You did great.” He announced while accepting the sword back and taking his helm off. It was a face Maria did not really recognize, but what was she to do about the guards who she barely had contact with?

>Go up to alert Victor about the coming journey, and that he’s coming with
>Go forward just for some small talk and catch up.
>Just watch over them for now, Maria’s not too sure about this other fellow

>>4454634
Gonna assume it was an average test considering our skill lvl and our close roll
>Go forward just for some small talk and catch up.
We can talk about the trip later

>>4454634
>>Go up to alert Victor about the coming journey, and that he’s coming with

>>4454634
I'm just gonna headcanon that the math itself isn't hard for us, but her inability to write her work out in japanese or roman numerals without causing a ruckus keeps her from blazing through it.
How does the city guard here work? I They feel more like bodyguards for the wealthy to me and I'm considering floating the idea of a trained (civilian/vigilante?) force to patrol the streets and make it harder for cultists to kidnap people for human sacrifices. Probably base it on Japanese cops or inspector zenigata since we are an isekai.

>Small talk with Victor about his new protege
Wonder how the dude is trying to protect. Chloe is the first suspect, but she already has Ford for the knightly love interest role with his overblown chivalry. I guess there could be overlap since he's also the prime minister's son.

>Ask if he wants to come with us on our coming pilgrimage.
We're gonna have to fill him in on what we suspect about Chloe when we're past the border I guess?

>>4454702
Is it possible to bring our moor bodyguards along with us as well?

Plus we should probably commission some armor for ourselves while we're at it.

And figure out business optimization for the delivery service either with Albert's help or our own studies of the books being kept.

>>4454634
>Go up to alert Victor about the coming journey, and that he’s coming with

>>4454634
>Go forward just for some small talk and catch up.
Always good to get the guards on our side

>>4454634
>Go forward just for some small talk and catch up

I can't believe I forgot about my old idea for a joint training session of Knights vs Bandits. The damn timing for the trip probably gets in the way with that.

Just a little chatting
>>4454651
>>4454795
>>4454835
>>4454702

A warning of a Journey
>>4454683
>>4454784

One person give me a d100 roll real quick.

Rolled 35 (1d100)

>>4455106
Pls be a low one now

Seeing the two acting pretty well with one another, Maria could not help but make her way up to them with a small smile, “Hello there Victor! I see you have picked yourself up a new Protege!”

“Protege, now come on-”

“Sadly, I cannot be a protege of a skilled swordsman like your Knight here.” The man answered as Maria got a better look at his face, “My name is Aldefo, a pleasure to meet someone who Victor here speaks so highly of.”

“Fufu, you would make me blush if it weren’t for this cold weather we are experiencing.” Maria joked with a coy smile.

“Ah I guess it is getting quite cold, lets head on in and warm ourselves up eh?”

Without much reason to go otherwise they made their way into the barracks, the place being heated by a larger than normal fireplace. In the light Maria was able to get a nice look at the man’s face, and what she saw was quite something to say the least.

It was handsome, easily something Maria would expect in a magazine featuring the older gentleman. However such a look was scared from almost all sides, displaying a series of injuries that were inflicted upon the man.

“Ah its nice to be out of the cold, takes the rust off my old bones.” He announced while taking a seat, “So, I understand it you are Maria Regnia? The girl who killed two Miaphs in a single lifetime?”

“You already know so much about me? I’m impressed really.” Maria said with a smile.

“You just hear those things when you are around. If you didn’t know it, the rumor mill of soldiers is faster than even the fastest runner. Especially if the object if interest is interesting enough!” He called out with laugh.

“What about yourself? You’ve got quite the forign name if I dare to say.”

“I come from the Low Countries,” He answered with a smile, “I get dragged up here with the recent moving of Morseman, you can never be too careful now can ya.”

[Intrigue Success]

Maria would need to talk to her men here, but something was not right with that comment. It would take maybe two three weeks to summon more men to the Academy from so far away. The Morse Horde was here and gone about a week ago, so something was not adding up.

>Maria should excuse herself from this conversation
>Maybe try to drill deeper into the man’s backstory, see if she can gleam something from it.
>Start a discussion of Faith, since that might be a good move right now
>Other ideas?

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>4455106

>>4455116
>Maybe try to drill deeper into the man’s backstory, see if she can gleam something from it.

>>4455116
>Maybe try to drill deeper into the man’s backstory, see if she can gleam something from it.
What was the roll for ?

>>4455116
>Discussion of faith, it could lead into whether Victor wants to go to the Ca'Ren city with us or not.
Digging deeper is a trap. We might accidentally reveal we know about the morsemen movements to an inquisitor.
Can we get a slightly updated map? I hear place names and descriptions but don't really understand where the places like low countries are right now. Plus i forgot where our map is.

>>4455139
It was for intrigue.

>>4455140
Its where all the small countries are. Just think of it as Italy, but sideways.

>>4455156
thought it was something secret, but okay

>>4455116
>Start a discussion of Faith, since that might be a good move right now

Welp we have Inquisitor#1 now I wonder how many inquisitors that are investigating the school.

Deeper into the backstory
>>4455121
>>4455139

The Faith
>>4455140
>>4455176

Uhh, well theres a tie.

>>4455325
>Deeper into the backstory
There

>>4455325
>Start a discussion of Faith, since that might be a good move right now

We ARE going on a pilgrimage and are a secret saint

“Are the Faithful prevalent down there?” Maria asked the man with a sway of the hand.

“In the Low Countries? Indeed it is.” The man answered with a smile, “It's how I ended up working for the Church here.”

“Even being so close to the Miaphate?”

“I would arguably say that has made out faith even stronger.” The man simply shook his head for a moment, “Unlike those men who are in the isles.”

“I guess I am not very aware of how distant they can be over there, being from the Mountains.”

“What about your home? I would think it right to atleast talk a little about yourself.”

There was a slight gleam in his eyes Maria saw, but the girl herself was not very shaken by it. So with that she measured her words carefully, “MaKain is not what you would call a Bastion of the Faith, but we are by far the frontier against all Heathens. Let it be the Pagans from the East or the Miaphate from the South, we somehow still keep holding on.”

“And what of all those years in the Miaphate?”

“I believe that has strengthened my Faith even more, for it was surely the Lord who guided my blade the first time, and granted me inspiration for the second.”

The man seemed satisfied with himself as he got up from the chair he was sitting in, “Very well then, I need to get moving. Make sure all my things are in order before settling down. Victor, I hope to spar with you again soon!”

“Y-yes sir!” The young knight bellowed.

With those words the man left Maria and Victor, further into the barracks and away from their vision. He was a curious man, and Maria got the feeling she would be seeing him again. Maybe not soon, but in time.

>Invite Victor to the Holy City
>No, there are some things Maria probably doesn’t want her Knight knowing
>Leave it be for now

>>4455353
>>4455356
Bruh moment

>>4455356
>Invite Victor to the Holy City

>>4455356
>Invite Victor to the Holy City
Also that guy seems inquisitive

>>4455390
tfw Victor was scouted as a secret inquisitor/guard to Maria to keep on tabs on her actions.

>>Invite Victor to the Holy City

>>4455356
>Invite Victor to the Holy City

>>4455356
>No, there are some things Maria probably doesn’t want her Knight knowing

>>4455356
>No, there are some things Maria probably doesn’t want her Knight knowing

>>4455356
>No, there are some things Maria probably doesn’t want her Knight knowing
I really want to actually do something with Victor, but Victor is for grand adventures or training up to be a knight that goes down in history, not being tricked into helping out with heretic squabbles.on our way to the holy city.
>Find a task worthy of him during our absence.
There's plenty to pick from. A ton of suspicious sorceries have been going around the last few weeks, Security is like swiss cheese. We know demon cultists with an interest in the situation kill innocents for their magic too. Might be a good idea to make it harder to kidnap people by bolstering and funding the city guard a little to make it more difficult for them to murder without being caught?
I hate how we end up having to fix all of Austin's administration problems like this uncredited, but the Lord's work is the Lord's work.

>>4455356
>No, there are some things Maria probably doesn’t want her Knight knowing
We don't know who the other guy is, last thing we want is to take Victor to the miaphate and have him let slip secrets

>>4455356
>No, there are some things Maria probably doesn’t want her Knight knowing

Invite
>>4455379
>>4455390
>>4455484
>>4455557

No invite
>>4455569
>>4455600
>>4455669
>>4455692
>>4455652

Just barely, ignore the post I deleted.

With the man gone Maria did not have much fear in talking to Victor, “Well lets get to why I am over here. Victor, during the Winter Break I will be making my way south. Sadly I cannot take you with me.”

“Oh yeah, its getting pretty close to that time isn’t it.” He realized before his brows were raised, “But why would I stay here!? I am your Knight, I should protect you!”

“Well that is because you can do much more work here.” Maria answered back with a show of her hands, “I take it you have heard about what happened recently concerning the Loveheart Girl?”

“Y-yes I have!” He began to scratch his head in thought, “Though I do not know why she is the one to do that. Are you not the one who the Lord blessed upon the day of purging?”

“Indeed that is what I am wondering too. Which brings me to what I want you to do, investigate the local area for any signs of a Cult’s activities.”

“You think it was sorcery?”

“I cannot say so for sure.” Maria said with a small taste of disdain, “What I do know is the Cults are around, for I have seen their actors. Do what you can, understood.”

“Y-yes understood!”

“Good, I will be heading out then.” Maria picked herself off the chair, “Oh, and your training has come along quite well. Let us hope you are not found wanting when the time comes.”

“YES!”

And like that Maria left his place, the cold winter breeze hitting her. It seems there might be a chance of snow soon, or atleast that is what the air is telling her.

Now though, what shall Maria do for the coming evenings?

>Go hang out with Albert and Co.
>Study for the last Exam
>Check up on the Bandits and their recent ‘recruits’
>Other schemes

>>4455852
>Just barely, ignore the post I deleted.
What was it about ?

>>4455869
>Study for the last Exam
It's one that'll be helping us in the coming pilgrimage so let's do it

>>4455869
>>Go hang out with Albert and Co.

>>4455869
Study for the exam

>>4455869
>Study for the last Exam

>>4455869
>Study for the last Exam

>>4455869
>>Go hang out with Albert and Co.
It's too late to study more and we can probably do better asking them questions to better understand things.

>>4455869
>Go hang out with Albert and Co.
We can study together if it's really that important or not.

>>4455869
>Go hang out with Albert and Co.

>>4455869
>>Go hang out with Albert and Co.

Study for the Exam
>>4455897
>>4455937
>>4455940

Hang out with Albert
>>4455903
>>4456065
>>4456079
>>4456096
>>4456114

Hang out time!

With her little talk over with Maria traveled around the Academy for a little while, though funny enough her legs took her to the Library of all places. Well, an even more specific place in the Library.

Without even a care Maria opened the doors to the Prince’s little hideout, the three boys in there only giving Maria a glance before resuming what they were doing. It seems that Albert and Elric were both going at it on a small chess set, though Maria could not hope but gawk at the silly sight.

“H-how?”

“How what?” Elric looked up with a dry expression.

“How is it you two only have your pawns and Kings on the board?”

“Oh that.” Albert gave a small laugh while scratching the back of his head, “I can’t really say myself, eheheh.”

Maria’s gaze moved towards Matheo, “Don’t look at me, I need to study for the Economics Exam.” Said man mumbled with a slight irritation in his voice.

Maria’s attentioned moved back to the board, and with a small shaking of the head just took a seat next to Albert. The game continued infront of her, the advantage going towards Elric as Pawns took out other pawns.

Just to mess with the competition Maria decided to talk to Elric, “So what will you be up to this coming break, oh Prince?”

“Going home, if just to see Father.” He answered before moving a pawn.

“Seeing your Father? What spurred this up?” Maria asked with a coy smile.

“The Grand Tournament will be happening this year.” He answered before making another successful move against Albert, “While I don’t need to, both myself and my brother will be fighting in it.”

“Noo!” Albert called out before letting out a sigh.

“Indeed, check.”

The field showed both of them were neck and neck, however by the end it was Elric who produced a Queen and rook to check his enemy. Indeed it was quite the battle, but in the end it was not surprising the man with at least military training was the winner.

>Talk about what Elric expects of the Tournament
>Maybe advise him to stay the hell away from that event.
>Bring up a separate subject, maybe his potential lover in Elizabeth.

>>4456270
>Talk about what Elric expects of the Tournament
I expect Lucien to have training but how good he is compared to Elric ?

>>4456270
>Maybe advise him to stay the hell away from that event

There are other glories that are worth taking than a rigged tournament that is in favor in Lucien especially when Chloe is in her side.

>>4456270
>Maybe advise him to stay the hell away from that event.

This sounds like an event we should have vague knowledge of from the VN?
>Rack our memory to see if there's some major event he could stop that's more important than the tourney like a terrorist attack?
>>4456297
You raise a good point
>>4456270
>Direct competition with him is ill advised. By my count there are at least 5 individuals or organizations manipulating the events around them for some unknown vested interest. Only one of which does not have magicks at hand and that is because I have been too busy studying to find out what person gave them false evidence to bear against me to see if they are mundane. That does not include whatever abilities Chloe herself has been hiding or granted. Unless of course you are confident you can make countermeasures against mind controls or trickery. I'd love to hear them if there are.


The most obvious of which is he 'accidentally" injures Lucien and Loveheart heals her "true love" in front of hundreds of spectators. This forces the church to go on lockdown protecting Chloe who can denounce us at will since we aren't a known saint.

>>4456324
I'm fairly certain only the pope can excommunicate someone but I agree we shouldn't be doing direct compatition untill after we become a recognized saint

>>4456270
>Talk about what Elric expects of the Tournament

>>4456346
I'm not talking about excommunication. I'm talking about just publicly denouncing us and turning the entire populace into (a brainwashed cult) thinking we're some sort of vampire or something because she's the glorious golden saint.
We aren't publicly a saint, she is. The church would be forced into a scramble to protect her to make things look even more official. Any news revelations about us being one would look suspicious and fake to the general populace too.

>>4456352
Okay sorry for misunderstanding your original post. I would say we should get sainthood ASAP then

>>4456366
We really need to find out how and where daddy fought a dragon. We don't know if this is a middle ages anything goes dragon, a modern fantasy giant lizard type dragon that can probably kick our ass, or a Tarasque esque Kaiju.

>>4456371
Daddy killed it with siege weapons we will simply tame it and get a floofy dragon of doom as a pet

Talking about the Tournament
>>4456286
>>4456349

Yeah Stay away from the event
>>4456297
>>4456303
>>4456324

I both expected and didn't.

>>4456559
anons continue to surprise me

As the man laid back Maria simply shook her head, “You should not really bother with it.”

“Not bother with the Grand Tournament? If I went to it, I can surely gather myself more men to follow my side.” Elric argued back with a raised brow.

“Simply put, if Lucien is participating you will probably lose. Especially if Ms. Loveheart is present.”

It was Albert who spoke with curiosity written upon his face, “Why would that be a problem?”

“Simply put, any who attend the event will probably be swayed by her existence. Any supporters you could have gained while being present would easily be swept by her very existence once it's known across the stage.” Maria answered with a shrugging of the shoulders.

Elric was about to say something, but then lowered his finger for a moment, “Then what should I do instead?”

“Go find those not so addicted to blood sport. I am sure Elizabeth would be happy if you came over for a visit once or twice during the cold winter days.” Maria ended it with a coy smile.

“Guh,” The young man’s face instantly went red at the slight suggestion, “I-I guess I can do that.”

“Fufufu, now with that done, Albert, when will we be leaving for your home?”

“Oh well that…”

They all talked for a little while more, hatching out a plan on approaching Albert’s City. Since it was already getting late, they made their way to their beds to sleep off the night away. With that however, came the last day’s test.

>Roll a d100, bo5, roll low

Rolled 68 (1d100)

>>4456578
Is it a cultist, chloe or perhaps the inquisitor ? let's find out

Rolled 50 (1d100)

>>4456578
Dice gods don't fail me now.

File: WELD.gif (1.17 MB, 489x417)

1.17 MB GIF

Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>4456578
>bo5

oh shit we rolling high I guess

Rolled 23 (1d100)

>>4456578

>>4456616
>>4456613
now shit got real good

>>4456580
Actually now I remembered the test. Feeling stupid now :p

Rolled 75 (1d100)

>>4456578
I'm here to shit your day hahaha

>>4456399
The saint Martha route? Bonk it on the head with a bible?
We need to secure/make a publishing company for Kers before she finds some publishers with poor taste and a bad editor. Or even a swindler tht realizes she's a cash mine. Once we leave it'll be too late to handle that.

>>4456797
Why not secure it with Albert's connection?

>>4456884
I'm cool with that. It falls under securing a publishing company.
>>4456366
I kinda like the idea of being a hidden benefactor/saint of the Kingdom for now. The look on the face of everyone when they realize just how much of the country we're propping up would be priceless even if we can't personally see it.
Maybe have some bandits on the lookout for heretical activity at the tournament? (aka they're getting paid to attend and have fun so long as they also pay attention to their surroundings or at least on whatever people approach the prince for alliances?
Shouldn't Ford have a sibling since the nobles make sure to have at least 2? Might be fun to pull them into the second prince faction as a project for when we get back.

File: Без названия.jpg (7 KB, 190x266)

7 KB JPG

>>somebody
Very important information!

>>4456940
Fuck being hidden, if we're hidden then we won't have as much power because no one will know we're a saint, granted it is a bit risky to reveal it

It was the early morning, and Maria had arrived at her study of Faith class just a little bit earlier than normal. Indeed she was not the only one, as several folk seemed to have the same idea to get a little extra studying in before the actual test was passed out. Such people seemed to include Loveheart, who was sitting at the window furiously studying the mountain of text next to her.

Indeed, Maria smiled at the thought that all those texts were in fact the remnants of her lover’s first year work. However the more she thought about it, the less it made sense that she would do that. Out of all the things Maria knew, is that Loveheart tries her best to be intentionally fair.

How well that works well Maria cannot say.

“Oh hey Maria.” Albert quickly took his seat next to his friend, “Ready?”

“Indeed I am, I have quite the feeling this test will be easy.”

“I hope so…”

Soon enough the papers were placed infront of them, Maria reading through the questions and answering them to the best of her ability. And by the best of her ability, she was quite sure there was barely a false answer.

What was the name of the contract, binding the Lord’s Chosen to himself?

a. The Contract of Asinmoth

During the age of Helions, what did Saint Victor do to save the City of Wallgrow?

b. Divert the waters towards the angreious sea

When faced with a man who murdered his own brother, what did the Lord do?

d. Curse the man so that he will always see his children struggle against one another.

With that Maria rose from her seat along with a few other people and turned the sheet of paper in. Honestly it was not even that bad of a test, though there were plenty of things Maria probably didn’t know for a little while before the test.

It is done though.

>Go give the Bandits one last checkup
>Walk the Campus one last time before the winter comes.
>Last things you wanna do on campus *Write in?*

>>4457273
>Go give the Bandits one last checkup
Let’s see if they remain in good shape before we leave

>>4457273
Walk the campus

>>4457273
>>Walk the Campus one last time before the winter comes.

>>4457273
>Go give the Bandits one last checkup

>>4457273
This is why I desperately need to use a day planner IRL. I'm awful at keeping track of time whether it be real or fictional. Meanwhile time travel isn't the least bit confusing for some reason. Weird.

So if I understand everything:
we get our trip with Albert
a week later we have to run off to Solomon for our pilgrimage
then a week or two into that is when Kers's novel is finished and ready for inspection for testing
--> production to possibly make it in time for a spring debut?
The tournament we wanted to go to is sometime during that
We probably don't arrive back to the empire until after everything else is done?

We gave the bandits a checkup not long ago and we are probably still watched. We can just send them a letter or ask for a quarterly report to be delivered while we pass out the city gate in a carriage.
What if we made the idea of mailboxes? The average citizen wouldn't have anything worth stealing and the wealthy can still get direct couriers. The annoying part is making breaking into a mailbox a federal crime.

With all of that in mind..

>>4457273
>Walk the Campus one last time before the winter comes.
Just socializing is good.

>>4457273
>>Go give the Bandits one last checkup
If we're gonna be away for awhile might as well make sure they're running smoothly

>>4457273
>Walk the Campus one last time before the winter comes.

Kers is going to win the tournament after accidentally signing up. I'm assuming that meeting with Bon before we leave campus is mandatory.

Bandit Checkup
>>4457293
>>4457481
>>4457490

A Walk Around Campus
>>4457397
>>4457414
>>4457487
>>4457737

A Walk around Campus it is!

With her completion of the exam on her Faith Studies, Maria was more or less free to do about whatever she wanted now. Of course it was pretty close to lunch time, but Maria did not really worry about it. So she took her time to enjoy the outdoor cold to the best of her ability.

Yes Maria will probably be missing the majority of winter come her several weeks in the southern part of the world. It would be quite the shame for her to miss it, though, since it did give her a slight nostalgia for what was before.

Why, she could only agree that it was ironic she was going to the Miaphate sooner than she did the Duchy of MaKain. Though this was an attempt to see the place for herself, one where she was not bound by chains but instead welcomed as a potential friend.

Indeed, things were going to be different come the next few weeks. Who knows what could happen.

“Oh, Sister! I didn’t expect you here!”

Maria turned her head quickly to see who was calling out. She could not help but give him a smile, “Bon, I see you were able to lose your lover.”

“Guh, she’s still taking her test I think. Thought it would be nice to enjoy the weather before things get much worse.” He answered with a shaky smile.

“Come now, it can’t get much worse than in MaKain. Atleast you will not be in the mountains.”

“I guess you are right there, but still. I was told to pack three layers of clothing atleast for the trip, and it sounds like we are going to be carried over by dogs instead of horses.”

“I think you are misunderstanding something there Bon. I mean, you probably have to be really far North where few men can even live to bring out the dogs.”

“Uh, I thought you were going to call my bullshit there.”

“What, that oh…” Maria simply rubbed her eyes for a moment, “Yeah, I saw it in a book once.”

“I guess being more learned comes with its benefits.” Bon answered with a chuckle, “I did call out Fein, and now she is swearing to take me on a sled ride with the hounds.”

“Sounds fun.”

“Hopefully it will be.” He answered with a smile.

>Give the man an inspirational speech about doing his best in the coming weeks
>Suggest he tried his best to romance Fein Kers while they have their time.
>Simply give the fool a hug, one for the road.

>>4457890
>Give the man an inspirational speech about doing his best in the coming weeks
Let's talk more for this farewell

>>4457890
>Simply give the fool a hug, one for the road.

>>4457890
>Simply give the fool a hug, one for the road.

>>4457914
>>4457914
>>4458106
>>4458146

Why not start with a speech to tease him before just hugging him?

>>4458370
Support talking my dude

>>4457890
>Simply give the fool a hug, one for the road.

>>4457890
>>Simply give the fool a hug, one for the road.

Inspirational Speaking
>>4457914

A hug and farewell
>>4458106
>>4458146
>>4458370
>>4458496
>>4458563

“Well, we won't be seeing each other for a while will we?” Maria admitted with a solemn smile upon her face.

“I… guess you are right. I guess it won't be as abrupt as last time.” Bon answered with a solemn sigh himself.

“Indeed! I will even guarantee you that I won’t become a prisoner in the coming weeks!” Maria called out with a silly answer.

“Heh, thanks for that one. Though honestly I wonder if you would turn someone else into your prisoner instead.”

“Even if I wanted to take prisoners, I would have no place to hold them.”

“You would probably find a way.”

“No I would try, but I won’t always succeed. You give me too much credit.”

“Why can’t I give my sister credit.” Bon answered while giving Maria a quick ruffling of the hair, “I will miss you okay.”

Maria felt a little spoiled for the moment, so she one upped him with a big hug, “I will too Bon! Blood is thinker than water, and I am sure we will be returning to this Academy’s grounds soon enough.”

“Indeed we will.” He answered as the two broke of the family session, “See you later Sis.”

“Same here, Bon.”

And with that the day turned towards night, and then back again. The sounds of several carriages came through the air, the simple fact that most of the students were taking the moment to leave. Why, even if the Academy gives out food for the coming week, most just want to get home.

Which brought Maria to now, a large parstle of laugage and the like stacked neatly into the back of a fairly robust carriage.

“There we go Mistress!” Melody announced with a smile that screams success, “You are ready to go!”

>”Well do not forget you are coming too”
>No, this Pilgrimage shall be done by Maria, by herself.

>>4458601
>”Well do not forget you are coming too”

>>4458601
>>”Well do not forget you are coming too”

>>4458601
>Well do not forget you are coming too”

>>4458601
>I'm sure you miss your family terribly. Be sure to enjoy your vacation too. Do send a message to (whatever guy it was at the local church we dealt with and rescued back in thread #3) asking for a discreet inquiry into how Chloe's parents met and any local eldritch happenings on record during the 10ish months leading up to her birth.
She needs downtime too, she needs protection we might not be able to give, the local people think moresmen are part demon, and she probably has PTSD from nearly being a demon sacrifice. I think taking us with is unfair to her.

Bring the Maid!
>>4458602
>>4458603
>>4458633

Yeah no,
>>4458673

>>4457217
Think of it as a trap.

Oh, the person you led a campaign against has been helping to feed the poor, opening orphanages, revitalized the economy, goes out at night in a cape to fight crime with daring do and was integral to the stability of your kingdom? And you kicked her out while demanding she remove anything she did without our borders? And she's a Saint? What do you mean she rides a dragon?! What do you mean the miaphate just invaded and has taken half of our cities?!
>>4458819
The mythology is getting interesting.
So if I understand how it's setup from all of the previous data, our God isn't a creator god like christianity, but more of a god of fate and humanity. He protects humans from the machinations of other gods who just want to have humans as toys or bully targets?

“Well do not forget that you will be coming with us.” Maria called back with a knowing smile.

“Oh don’t worry about that Mistress. My case has been packed and I’ve talk to the carriage driver. I will be sitting next to him for a majority of the ride.”

Maria’s brows furrowed, “Why would you do that? Is it not cold outside these days?”

“A little frostbite is more than enough to deal with for my Mistress.” She answered while giving Maria what could only be described as a lewd smile.

“By the Lord Melody.” Maria could only shake her head, “Go take your seat, we will probably be off once Albert gets here.”

“Understood my Mistress,” The Maid of course gave courteous bow before quickly disappearing towards the front of the carriage. Within the same moment Maria looked over to see Albert quickly running towards her.

“Sorry I’m late!” He called out before panting slightly, “I just needed to collect some remaining documents and lock my doors.”

“Oh being barely late is not a problem. Now here, get on in before I regret saying that.” Maria said while opening the door to Albert.

“Shouldn’t I be doing that?”

“Are you going to complain?”

“Thank you for opening the door.”

With that Albert headed in, with Maria quickly behind him. With their entry, the wheels of the carriage began to move towards somewhere in the south.

It was a modestly well kept road for what Maria could admit. The main roads were not made of dirt but instead of a sturdy stone that can withstand centuries of traversal. Honestly to Maria its one of the few things that show just how powerful a kingdom really is. Wasting resources on the betterment of transportation.

As they mulled around for a few minutes it was Albert who spoke up, “So it will take us maybe three days total to cross the Empire at this rate.”

“Three days to cover hundreds of miles? Thats honestly not very bad at all.” Maria claimed.

“I guess you are right, however I just wanted to warn you we will be traveling for a while.”

“Fufu, I bet this is nothing for a Merchant’s Son like yourself.”

“Uh, yeah, you can say I’ve grown up use to this.”

>Try to get an idea on the Government of Albert’s home city
>Simply chat it up with the man for the coming day of riding.
>Watch outside the window, see if there is anything interesting happening out there.

>>4458847
>She answered while giving Maria what could only be described as a lewd smile.
I knew she had something hidden. That’s a good surprise

>Try to get an idea on the Government of Albert’s home city
It’s foreign for our character but not so much to us

>>4458847
>Talk about how to establish a publishing company

>>4458863
She's been corrupted, we must save her!

>>4458847
>>Try to get an idea on the Government of Albert’s home city

>>4458874
You mean enlightened

>>4458601
>”Well do not forget you are coming too”

>>4458847
>Talk about how to establish a publishing company

Also
>Wasting resources on the betterment of transportation.
How is Maria, an expert at military not realise the advantages of a good logistics network?

>>4458847
>Talk about how to establish a publishing company

>>4459080
The problem is all the inter fiefdom squabbling.Mkain is supposed to be a choke point for Miaphate forces, but there are apparently no proper trade routes going through to the rest of the kingdoms in the empire. The Miaphate wouldn't be choosing to enter through us if there wasn't a route. for the army to go through Therefore there is a road/route infrastructure, but inter regional squabbling, lack of maintenance, and bandits are all suspect reasons behind us not having a heavily traveled road. There are of course other factors like boats being better transport or alternate routes while we don't really know of any Mkain exports. (Glacier ice?)
Overall this points to how fractured the Empire truly is in that movement is not safe and the roads themselves are relics from the empire's more glorious past.

I'm guessing QM didn't realize that the roads he's talking about are theoretically a reference/analogue to the extensive roading the roman empire put down in europe that was almost entirely for warfare logistics.
>>4458847
How bumpy is this ride? Are we going to invent suspension immediately after getting out?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJ5Z6awBSb8
Apparently this was a meme when Wonder woman came out. Youtube reccomended it to me.

>>4458847
>Simply chat it up with the man for the coming day of riding

An idea on how the Republic of Altmer Works.
>>4458863
>>4458917

Publishing
>>4458874
>>4459080
>>4459188

Other
>>4459323

Uh, damn, I guess we are setting up a Printing Company.

They traveled on for a while, the time going by at a well enough pace. Slowly Maria could feel the cold start to ebb away, though they were still too far north for it to all melt away. However that did not really matter, as the small cabin they were both in somehow was kept at a reasonable temperature.

However it still brought Maria to awe how much things can change from traveling such a short distance. Already they were starting to carve through the valleys created by hills. After that they would travel through great valleys where a few hundred small farms could be seen preparing themselves for the coming winter.

However that was soon leaving Maria’s mind as she turned towards Albert, “Hey Albert, I was thinking of starting a Publishing Company, got any ideas how I can start?”

“A publishing company? That’s not a very good business to get into you know.” Albert admitted with a hint of surprise.

“May I ask what exactly those publishers even hosted? I assume they were just pushing out brochures were they not?”

“You would be right, I guess.” Albert admitted with a faint nod, “What kind of product are you looking at?”

“Well you see, no one has yet to publish anything pertaining to actual entertainment. That is the key, if we can get a series that could forever captivate the audience to see more of our work, I bet we can get patrons and the like to pay our expenses.”

“So are you suggesting we release stories?”

“Indeed, maybe even entire books if we are able. Just imagine how much we can make off the product once the academy starts back up.”

Albert seemed to take a moment to think to himself, probably about what in the world Maria was going to make, “Thats not a bad idea, I guess these are the options we have.”

>Buy out a few Presses already around the Empire, making them produce for Maria.
>Look into building a new couple of presses for Maria to employ.
>Simply order a series of the papers to be produced.

>>4459419
>Buy out a few Presses already around the Empire, making them produce for Maria.
Their name will help us sell

>>4459419
>>Look into building a new couple of presses for Maria to employ.

>>4459419
>Look into building a new couple of presses for Maria to employ.

>>4459455
>>4459472
Supporting. We need those excess bandits to employ here. They can act as guards and can hold out in case of a fight when a theft is (and possibly) will broke out.

Also we can employ them cheap at first and when we have a very good stable of income, we can pay them in increments.

>>4459419
>Look into building a new couple of presses for Maria to employ.

>>4459419
>>Look into building a new couple of presses for Maria to employ.
We're probably jumping the gun with buying these since we could use some more authors, but there's probably no shortage of bards and smooth talkers that can learn.
Also gives us an excuse to make a basic public school system.
>>4459561
i think we need to cool it with the bandit focus.. It's good that we've reformed dredges of society into relatively honest citizens but we also need to work on regular citizens. I'm also wondering about how to give our home territory some exports and mountains+rivers are perfect for lumber/paper mills after the ice is gone. It also affords us slightly better security from any rabid fans trying to steal advance copies.

>>4459682
what i meant is, the mailing service is kinda overmanned at the moment. We can spread out those men who will be working on our publishing press in the future.

>>4459769
No it isn't. We just had to capture a small bandit group because it was UNDERmanned. If we recruit again we make some fake competition this time before some smartass gets any ideas about competing with us.

Buy out the manufactoring
>>4459450

Greenfield Investment
>>4459455
>>4459472
>>4459654
>>4459682

“Hmm, I think we should probably buy up some machinery and make the material ourselves.” Maria answered with a coy smile.

“Are you sure about that? Its going to get a little on the expensive side of things.” Albert answered back.

“I’m not very worried if it gets too expensive.” Maria answered back with a growing wicked smile, “If we own the item itself, we will be able to take all the profit for ourselves. Not only that, but I have amassed enough men in order to probably run the place.”

“Men? Are you going to be importing some people from MaKain?”

“Nope, lets just say I am the proud owner of a Mailing Service.”

“Is that so…” Albert looked quite interested in the fact, but realized it was not that wise to go in any further on the matters, “Well I am sure we will be able to attain the equipment.”

“Because most of those businesses are going bankrupt?”

“Indeed.” Albert answered confidently.

And like that the day went by, coming to a close over the setting sun.

With that they all made camp, the place being warmed by a modestly ablaze campfire that stood tall across the dark space around them. It was a comforting warmth, Maria admitted.

“Sir,” One of their two guards came up to Albert with a slight warning in his voice, “Me and Davin are preparing for the night, but honestly we just don’t have enough energy within us to get everything we wanted done.”

“So you guys need some help?”

“Yes sir, that would be great. If you can keep watch for a few hours tonight with Hussle here that would be great.” The man said while jestering towards a hound.

“I understand.” Albert answered back with a solemn smile.

As the man departed Maria looked to Albert with a raised brow, “Did you not get enough Mercenaries?”

“Not in number, but surely in experience. I’ve worked with these two before, and its something he usually requests.” Albert answered.

>Suggest Maria gets the fire wood instead
>Maria shall take a Watch!
>Nah, Maria doesn’t need to worry about things that these people obviously have a handle of.

Sorry if this update seems silly, I am tired.

>>4459879
>Suggest Maria gets the fire wood instead

>>4459879
>Suggest Maria gets the fire wood instead
Might as well stumble across the random encounter table and stumble onto heretic sabotage/assassins.

>>4459879
>Suggest Maria gets the fire wood instead

>>4459879
>>Suggest Maria gets the fire wood instead

>>4459879
>Maria shall take a Watch!

>>4459879
>Maria shall take a Watch!

>>4459897
This

>>4459879
>Maria shall take a Watch!

Sorry guys, no lunch update as I am studying for a test.

>>4460408
Good luck QM.

>>4460408
Good luck QM and remember to roll low

>>4460408
No biggie. I'm just playing in the middle of a hurricane here.
I'm actually very confused about wtf is going on with this thing. It's sunny and bright outside with little winds but it was supposed to have arrived 4 hours ago.

>>4460574
Uh, you might be in the eye of the storm kiddo.

Also test went pretty fast, so:

Firewood
>>4459890
>>4459897
>>4459950
>>4459982
>>4460125

Watch
>>4460099
>>4460108
>>4460132

>>4460588
You misunderstand. It's a category 4. I haven't noticed it START yet. Damn government notices don't have anything about how close it's passing so I don't know if it changed course to be further away.

>>4460599
>>4460588
Finally found a weather report. Looks like the strong winds somehow missed where I am by few miles and downgraded to a category 2.
We're also smack dab in the middle of some weird cold front to the west and the hurricane in the east canceling each other out in the exact spot where I am.

It wouldn't surprise me if somebody called it a minor miracle, although it doesn't save much when everything is built to weather a hurricane.

File: 549740096_d4ed257bf4_w.jpg (50 KB, 400x300)

50 KB JPG

“If they need help, then I will go out and get some firewood.” Maria announced while picking herself off the seat.

“You want to get the firewood?” The man who was just talking to face Maria with a Perplex expression, “I would not want to press you into it ma’am.”

“You simply needed help did you not.” Maria reached into her luggage and retrieved her Partisan Blade that was strapped to it, “I can easily defend myself, I assure you.”

The Merc gave a nice whistle of being impressed as he looked at Maria’s weapon, “You’re… Albert you were not joking about this girl’s bite.”

“Fufu, that is my Mistress!” Melody called out with a smile, “I can guarantee you all that she is more than skilled enough to fight anything. She’s even killed about five Demon Worshippers with her blade alone.”

There was a look of surprise plastered upon the face of the Merc, but soon enough he just gave a nice shrug of the shoulders, “Well it would help, though I won’t let her unless my employer agrees.”

“I do,” Albert said without a hint of hesitation, “I trust the girl with my life equal to you.”

The Merc simply shrugged his shoulders at that and shook his head, “Alright then, I’ll tell Devin to hang back and get some sleep. Please get as much as you can.”

“I do not think you need to worry much about that.” Maria answered while mustering her arm, “Then I will be back everyone.”

And with that Maria quickly got a small lantern and went out into the woods. Of course she was not so terribly far that the smoke from her home campfire could not be seen.

It was a nice feeling of peace as Maria picked up the series of woods off the ground. Each and every plank was valuable in the fact it would give them just that extra few minutes of light. If it ever went out, well there was always the fear of wolves to worry about.

Though as Maria worked around, she could not help but feel something at her back. Something was watching her every move, though it was not very hostile in a standard nature.

Though how something was this far out Maria did not know.

>Find the thing and strike at it!
>Simply ignore it in favor of firewood.
>Leave for now, something watching Maria was not something she did not want to deal with.

Maybe try to call it out?

>>4460649
>Simply ignore it in favor of firewood.
I think it's either a bandit or any animal that isn't a wolf, but let's keep our guard up

I forgot too, give me rolls, Bo3, roll low.

Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>4460693
Does the options matter in this roll ?

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>4460649
>Simply ignore it in favor of firewood.

Rolled 2 (1d100)

>>4460649
Wolves sound more dangerous than this in the long term. If it's a sapient being we can lure them back to camp. If it's a (possible) pet magical creature we can lure it to camp.
Generally it's best to pretend we don't notice them since it could be somebody we'd get in trouble for stabbing. (Inept prince spy,local fey, or even an outdoorsy inquisitor)
>Get firewood but keep a guard up (including keeping track of where camp is at all times) in the off chance it isn't friendly.
It could also be a mother creature thinking we're getting too close to it's cubs.
>Ask about any local legends when we get back since something is watching us.

>>4460649
>Leave for now, something watching Maria was not something she did not want to deal with.

>>4460705
Nani the fuck? I should have gone with something snarky about how only perverts spy on young maidens out in the woods but I wasn't sure that whatever was looking was a person.

>>4460649
>Simply ignore it in favor of firewood.

>>4460649
>Simply ignore it in favor of firewood.
Just lookin for wood

>>4460649
>Simply ignore it in favor of firewood.

>>4460649
>Simply ignore it in favor of firewood.
Nothing to see here inquisitor/Ford incompetent spy/Stalker Solomon/Perverted heretic/bad bandit/perverted cultist/random passerby

>>4460649
>Simply ignore it in favor of firewood.

Firewood
>>4460681
>>4460703
>>4460705
>>4460762
>>4460764
>>4460834
>>4460967
>>4460982

Leave
>>4460707

Well, huh.

Maria’s eyes flickered over towards where that damned feeling was comeing from, her eyes sharper than even the blade that could split an atom. In an instant, her eye met a completely black one. And like that, in an instant, the creature ran away faster than Maria ever expected it to.

“What the hell…” However Maria simply shook her head. Whatever the creature was it was not going to bother her any more it seems.

With that over with Maria gathered up the rest of the fire wood, swiftly carrying all she needed with her single hand. With a prideful feeling in her heart, Maria carried the pile to camp to a sight of a sleeping Melody and the other men finishing up their meals.

“What the… huh.” Was about all one of the Mercenaries said as he looked at Maria’s collections of wood.

“Fufu, see I am competent.” Maria claimed with a victorious expression, “Now time for some food and lets call it a night.”

The two Mercs looked at one another before giving shrugs. Indeed why did they really need to care about something like this.

“Well I got first watch, so thanks for taking care of that.” The man answered before placing himself next to the fire.

“You are welcome. Now it is time to sleep I guess.” Maria answered before embracing the small roll that she was provided.

The night went by quite easily, as did the one after that. Maria never felt that feeling that something was watching her, maybe because it was either local to the area or it was just scared out of its mind by Maria.

It did not really matter now though, as finally the heat had returned to Maria’s skin. No longer were they within the old woods of the north but instead the tropical underside of the Empire. Maria wondered just how the Empire held just a profitable piece of land to themselves.

“We are about a day’s travel away now.” Albert answered with a smile, “Though the travel has been a little too smooth.”

“Too smooth? Thats something you never want to say Albert.” Maria replied with a pout, “You might cause something bad to happen.”

“Oh, sorry about that.” He apologised while rubbing the back of his neck
>Try and learn about some of their local legends.
>Get the names of his current siblings out of him.
>Other things

>>4461013
>Try and learn about some of their local legends.
Anything that has black eyes?

>>4461013
>Try and learn about some of their local legends.

>>4461013
>Try and learn about some of their local legends.
Did your worries have to do with something in the woods? It got scared off when I saw it.
Was that a shapeshifting kitten mount?

>>4461013
>>Try and learn about some of their local legends.

>>4461013
>Try and learn about some of their local legends.

>>4461013
>>Try and learn about some of their local legends.

Local Legends
>>4461016
>>4461028
>>4461031
>>4461080
>>4461089
>>4461243

“So you know, does Altmer have some legends behind it?” Maria asked the native with a small smirk, “You know, since these things can actually be real.”

“Uh, well I can’t say very easily honestly.”

“I take it you are not someone who listens to stories of the damned at night?” Maria answered with a joke.

“More of my father is not a person who cares about those things.” Albert answered with a shaky smile, “I think the first thing I was reading on the Business Ledger.”

“Business Ledger?”

“Yes…”

In that moment the window that separated the coach’s driver opened up with the face of a Merc, “You want supernatural things? I’ve got a nice story for ya.”

“Devin don’t be telling anyone your damned conspiracy theories.” called the other Marc.

“Ignore that idiot.” Devin said with an attempted charming smile, “You see, there is this great complexe under the city. Something that not even the-”

“God damn you idiot!” Shouted the other one ontop his horse, “You realize there can’t be anything under our city because its just water.”

“Thats what they want you to think!”

“Guh, sorry for him.” The Merc said while bringing his horse close to the window, “You want to hear the local legends? Well its where the Saint Kalubum died and is currently resting in the grand monastery. The fellow received a vision from the Lord, and warned the old Altmer to place their homes on stilts. Wouldn’t you know it, the water level rose so high that it engulfed all who didn’t heed the Saint’s warning.”

“Thats… oddly practical and insane.”

“Well its just what everyone agrees happened. Honestly, I can’t say how he convinced a bunch of folk to erect houses on the water but it happened.”

>Allow the madman to speak.
>Have their little journey end
>Gleam a little more info *Write in Fellows*

>>4461274
>>Allow the madman to speak.

>>4461274
>Allow the madman to speak.

>>4461274
>Allow the madman to speak.

>>4461274
>Those two stories sound like they tie into each other. If they made new homes on stilts, then the old ones would obviously be trapped in the depths until they've finished rotting. A shame that there is no way to find out unless the Lord were to part the waters leading to it for some act of divine providence.

If this guy is a good enough storyteller we might have a second author?

>>4461274
>Allow the madman to speak.

>>4461274
>Allow the madman to speak.

>>4461274
>gut him on your blade before he can continue this story, you have an ominous feeling that something bad will happen if he does


Now my actual response
>Allow the madman to speak

Madness it is
>>4461283
>>4461284
>>4461425
>>4461604
>>4461670
>>4461737

Maybe this can be a book
>>4461550

“Interesting, well if thats something outlandish the people believe happened what about Devin’s theories.” Maria answered with a smile.

“You want to actually listen?” Devin asked with a stupefied face about himself.

“Why are you acting so surprise. Don’t tell me you do that as an act to mess with people.”

“Guh, I mean.” the man simply shook his head, “I know for sure there is something somewhere under the city. The shadows sometimes get a little too long for my liking.”

“Alright?” MAria could not help but raise her brow at that, but the man did not say anything more about it.

Soon though they finally arrived at a small pier looking out onto the water. Much to Maria’s surprise they just kept on moving, soon driving the carriage right onto the boat. Maria of course was not alone in the sudden confusion, with Melody looking quite spooked form the entire ordeal.

However before Maria could say anything the boat began to move, soon drifting towards what was first thought to be a small island from the shoreline. Instead however Maria soon began to realise the large amount of stone architecture standing upon the water.

“So thats Altmer, I feel like its been ripped off from somewhere.”

“Ripped off? But Altmer is one of the most unique places of the entire world.”

“Exactly.”

There was still confusion written upon Albert’s face, however that was soon to go away as the boat finally made it to the pier. Their things were placed upon an even smaller boat which seemed ready to transport through the series of canals.

“Alright, Albert, you’re back home.” Devin said with a snicker, “You want us to deliver your things while you show the lady around?”

“Oh, well that would not be very bad…”

>No, Albert shall take Maria to see his family
>A little tour would not be bad at all

>>4461822
>A little tour would not be bad at all
Learning time

>>4461822
>A little tour would not be bad at all

>>4461822
>A little tour would not be bad at all

Ok, so Venice ripoff and the ancient city is Crete?

>>4461822
>A little tour would not be bad at all

>>4461828
>>4461839
>>4461892
>>4461908

Sorry for being a good bit late. Gave blood a couple hours ago and well, it was not the most pleasant post experience.

>>4462200
Was the nurse hot at least ?

>>4462204
Nope, got a Mexican guy with tattos drawing it.

“Uh, would you be willing to let me guide you around Maria?” Albert asked with a shaky smile.

“Hmm, I would love to.” Maria turned to her maid who was standing next to a pile of things, “Melody, if you would not mind take my things to their manor.”

“I understand my Mistress,” Melody said while giving a curt bow, “I hope you two have a grand time together.” She then raised her head revealing a not too subtle smile about herself.

“Well, uh, I guess we should start going this way.” Albert took Maria by the hand and began to guide her through the streets of Altmer.

Looking around, Maria had to admit that the walkways and such were quite beautiful. The waters next to her was a light blue, allowing her to look underneath to see the several fish and like that swam along the way.

Though, “Hey Albert, shouldn’t the streets be a little bit more crowded?”

“Hmm, well we are one the Private docks.” He answered without much more than batting an eye.

“Private Docks, is your father that powerful?”

“He is a wealthy man for sure, but mainly its that we are one of the Four Families who operate the city.”

“I guess that is how close you can get to a democracy is it?”

“Well, its more like everything is owned by us one way or another.” Albert answered like it was a matter of fact, “For the most part the city is split in four parts, with the Church holding the Cathedral in the middle as Clerical Lands.”

“Yup, and right there it is.” Albert said while pointing towards a rather large building that peaked out over everything else, “Altmer Cathedral, I believe thats where the remains of the saint are located.”

“My oh my, that is quite the sight.”

“Indeed, but there are also other landmarks that our city holds. A little ways from there is the Doge’s Guild, where my Father currently works. Following that, there is also the grand gallery, where we house a collection of artifacts collected by the Doges of years before.”

>To the Cathedral!
>The Doge’s Guild Please
>A Great Gallery, what kind of Artifacts are contained within that?

>>4462220
>A Great Gallery, what kind of Artifacts are contained within that?

>>4462220
>The Doge’s Guild Please

>>4462262
>We found a charred Nintendo Gameboy that still works.

>>4462220
>>A Great Gallery, what kind of Artifacts are contained within that?

>>4462287
We can also see a book written in japanese and its just smut. Below in the pedestal writes:

"Here lies the sacred text of Saint Augustine."

The Great Gallery
>>4462262
>>4462290

Doge's Guild House
>>4462268

You guys did not go for the Cathedral... at all...

>>4462220
>To the Cathedral!
Rule one of medieval survival, pay respects to the church upon entry.
Our possible father in law probably won't like us bothering him during work.

>>4462370
All were tempting, but we can go to the church later

>>4462370
Actually the artifacts got me

“Well.. that Gallery sounds quite interesting.” Maria answered with a smile, “I wonder what kind of trinkets are trapped within its walls.”

“Alright then, follow me.” Albert said with a confidence Maria had not seen in the man before.

As expected, the amount of people who were around suddenly increased the moment they entered a street that can easily be the crossroads of the city. Men and Children went about their day without even a single issue to one another. As for the Women, well Maria caught a few glances of them at stalls and the like but they seemed quite absent.

Soon enough they arrived at a massive and quite well made building. Even the front of it screamed that it was a place that held prestige. What else would explain the giant ass egal plastered on the front.

There were actually guards at the front, however they simply gave Albert a nod and stood aside without much of an issue.

As they passed the men Maria could not help but smile, “Oh look here, seems you are quite well known.”

“I’ve come here a few times.” Albert admitted with a small smile and the scratching of the back of his head, “Though I usually -”

“Big Brother Albert!”

Within a moment both of their heads swung towards the young voice. Much to Maria’s surprise standing there was a modestly dressed girl and boy both with hug smiles plastered upon their faces. Standing next to them looked to be a slightly worn out servant.

“Camilia, Simo? Why are the two of you out here?”

“We can’t head outside without you brother?” The young boy named Simo said with a small pout.

“Of course I’m not saying that, but… yeah you are completely right.” Albert answered with a smile before welcoming them with open arms, “Well, come on, give your big brother a big hug.”

The kids did just as suggested, coming over and giving Albert the happiest hug they could. It was indeed a charming sight, one that slightly hurts Maria’s heart to see.

Of course soon enough one of the kids looked over towards Maria, “Hey Albert, who is this?”

>Maria is his Girlfriend!
>A very good friend
>Just a friend of Albert’s from school
>Deflect the Question (Conversation)

>>4462397
>Maria is his Girlfriend!
let's not forget the ojou-sama laugh

>>4462397
>>Maria is his Girlfriend!

I worry sometimes that he doesn't hold his own very well and he'll get pushed aside.

>>4462397
It's on him to say something.
All we gotta do is laugh at him

>>4462397
>Maria is his Girlfriend!

>>4462397
>It's on him to say something.
>All we gotta do is laugh at him
I'm all for the laugh.

>>4462397
Supporting the ojou-sama laugh

>>4462397
>>4462413
+1

>>4462397
>A very good friend
I'm really curious how people plan to tell Albert about Solomon, because currently we are apparently set to lead Albert on.

>>4462442
Do you also support telling that we’re his gf ?

>>4462397
>Maria is his Girlfriend!

>>4462526
I dunno, but we're digging that hole super deep and people vote for something else whenever I personally try to get towards telling him.
At the least we need to tell him before we leave since we're bound to get caught by his siblings. They're everywhere and we're pretty distinct.
If we get lucky he chases after us and we get classic otome drama with them bickering against each other.
We aren't good at acting either, so he'd be able to tell that our tears and worries are real.
I can't tell if Solomon has the worst timing or is doing things to make it look this bad on purpose.

>>4462526
Regardless if anons wanna go with him or Solomon we gotta tell Albert about the guy. Personally I wanna be with him

>>4462632
Yeah we need to be upfront with him. That he has competition.

>>4462550
No I'll vote for
>It's up to him to say

>>4462397
>Maria is his Girlfriend!

>>4462649
And by competition we mean person that's only in the running due to how badly things can go south for the entire continent if we don't give him a chance after he ghosted us for several years.

>>4462692
No, the guy I always saw as an important contender. And ghosting is really not what he did unless you think not visiting when that could get him killed is somehow not understandable.

>>4462692
Frankly we did declare us basically his fiance with conditions and then never contacted him either. And unlike Maria, Solomon kept being faithful to her, never starting any relationship with anyone else.

>>4462692
While i'm fine giving Sol a chance, my choice is Albert

>>4462720
From a meta standpoint sure, but in character we didn't even know he actually liked us, he skipped town for years without sending a word or even indicating that he actually liked us when it came time for our escape. Then he pops up years later all mad that he's losing when he didn't put in any work into the relationship from day one.
>>4462723
We were a prisoner while he was a prince. One has an easier time with sending letters than the other.
We also did put in that escape clause with the way we worded it. He always had a chance and would have not completely flubbed it if he at least sent daddy a notice of our betrothal as a reminder.
>>4462724
I like Solomon, but he locked himself right into hard mode from the get go in a situation of his own design. He didn't frame his proposal as one of love so that we could go ara ara (when we really didn't have much leverage to say no if we wanted to escape), didn't speak to us for years, only showed up after his mishandling of the relationship went awry,(assuming that he didn't also have other reasons to check out the area thanks to all of the machinations around Chloe,) and did so at the worst possible timing since he insists on doing that when inquisitors are being summoned.

Meanwhile Albert is killing it in the romance department since we don't have to be on guard around him.
If only Solomon had tried the foreign exchange student gambit. He'd be on more solid ground right now.

>>4462733
The thing about foreign exchange doesn't work. First of all, most nations doesn't agree each other because of different pantheon's of gods and goddesses. Every nation will label everyone as heretic for not bowing on their beliefs. The only exception of these are trade cities and merchant empires whose having an influence from their church (because they're their biggest donators). Solomon already locked himself in hard mode but if he's serious about this relationship, he should look for things that could help Maria. But he appears on a wrong place albeit in a right time.

>>4462737
The foreign exchange gambit is to say he is considering converting and get permission to be enrolled. That's a big enough carrot to dangle to get himself in the school. He kinda has to do that unless he's cool with his gods killing us.