>>4717803
“We would need to secure against that in any event,” you decide.

“I agree.”

“The problem however is that we do not even know whether the king is still alive,” you note, returning to the previous issue. “We would need to figure that out.”

“In what way?”

“Either by a spy or in force,” you consider it carefully.

“By a spy I assume you mean one of your own, or else a trusted hireling,” Noventus suggests calmly. “Is that right?”

You nod. “I tend to favor sending one of my own. Either plan would be viable.”

“I can’t say which would be better,” he admits. “You could go in force.”

“That would mean committing,” you frown. “In any event it would be best to take our forces no further than the new border.”

“Agreed,” Noventus nods curtly. “At least not at first. So I suppose you must settle on a strategy.”

>I could go myself, and perhaps take a small group of warriors. We will discern the truth.
>We need to find a trustworthy proxy, someone to get at the truth in our stead.
>We should move a military force to Lanerk, strengthen our position in Noroit.
>Other?

>>4717826
>I could go myself, and perhaps take a small group of warriors. We will discern the truth.

How long has it been since a claymore went out that way?

>>4717826
>>I could go myself, and perhaps take a small group of warriors. We will discern the truth.

>>4717826
>I could go myself, and perhaps take a small group of warriors. We will discern the truth.

>>4717826
>I could go myself, and perhaps take a small group of warriors. We will discern the truth.

>>4717826
>I could go myself, and perhaps take a small group of warriors. We will discern the truth.

>>4717826
>>We should move a military force to Lanerk, strengthen our position in Noroit.

>>4717826
>>We need to find a trustworthy proxy, someone to get at the truth in our stead.


We're pretty noticeable when people know what to look for, us going in person could easily be detected and cause shit.

>>4717826
“I can go, and take a small group of warriors,” you decide. “It may draw some attention that way, but that may not be a bad thing.”

“You think it would be best not to take them by surprise?”

“That’s right,” you agree. “If we managed to complete the necessary tasks in secrecy that could be considered ideal, but being caught could actually be the worst possible scenario.”

“I agree with your concerns,” Noventus agrees, “and I will do what is necessary to support your decision.”

…

For the purpose of this mission you select three specific members of your cohort – Serana, Justina, and Zara. Serana and Justina are two of your heavy-hitters, and they have among the most restrained personalities. This will be the first official mission for Zara, one of the rookies brought in with Lunara’s cohort, who is a specialized sensor like Nessa.

“Thank you!” she blurts out as you’re setting out on the road.

You stare at her for a moment. “What for?”

“For… giving me a chance?” she offers awkwardly. Evidently she didn’t really consider her own reasons for saying thanks in the first place. “For putting trust in me, I think?”

“Of course. It’s important to give you an opportunity to join us on missions, to ease into a more active role.”

“I see,” Zara nods once, looking deeply awkward about the whole exchange. “Yeah. Probably should have known that.”

“Maybe,” Justina shrugs.

“You’ll get used to this,” you insist with a calm smile.

[Just like how you’ll get used to me talking like this,] Serana suggests.

“I… only caught part of that,” Zara admits nervously.

“Progress,” Justina muses.

>Try not to draw attention to yourself, but don’t try to hide either.
>Allow yourself to draw just a little attention. Make sure everyone knows you’re coming.
>You’re the queen. Make sure everyone knows who you are and what you’re here for.
>Other?

>>4719213
>>Try not to draw attention to yourself, but don’t try to hide either.

>>4719213
>Try not to draw attention to yourself, but don’t try to hide either.

>>4719213
>Try not to draw attention to yourself, but don’t try to hide either.

>>4717803
I finally ran out of popular media schlock to read and came trawling around /qst/ after not participating since 2014 /tg/.
What I found was this, and I binged read over the last two days. I had work to do, you cunt. But thanks for entertaining me enough to neglect my life and post here.

>>4719213
Anyway
>Try not to draw attention to yourself, but don’t try to hide either.

Also, I have another item for consideration at some point. Currently, the Organization is a mess. In contrast, we're well-organized, have government backing, and currently have enough Claymores to rival the number of active Claymores employed by the Organization three years ago. Possibly more Claymores than are currently alive within the organization, considering the quality of new recruits, lethality from a lack of information as their network breaks down, and the possibility that no one currently has a hand on Clarice's leash to handle her propensity for sororicide.
If we were ever going to actively advertise and recruit from the Organization, rather than passively take defectors at opportune meetings, now is a good time to push for it.

>>4719213
>Try not to draw attention to yourself, but don’t try to hide either.

>>4719213
>Try not to draw attention to yourself, but don’t try to hide either.

>>4719213
>3d10, best of three

Rolled 10, 2, 3 = 15 (3d10)

>>4720466

Rolled 6, 9, 9 = 24 (3d10)

>>4720466

Rolled 9, 6, 1 = 16 (3d10)

>>4720466
>>4720470
already has it in the bag, just rolling to finish us off

File: Map-March_2021.jpg (49 KB, 509x410)

49 KB JPG

>>4720466
The trip takes you first through Balloch, the point where you can cross the border into Cuilan. Or, rather, where the border with Cuilan once was. But instead of crossing the country to reach Tarskavaig, you head further south towards the now-important town of Beynac. This town sits right near the borders with Shukzan and Noroit, meaning that it will soon be at the southeast corner of the realm of Hazaran.

“Cheery,” Justina muses. It’s sarcasm of course. Beynac is a fairly grim settlement, very practical but also very drab and somewhat run-down.

“Cuilan trends towards the utilitarian,” you admit. “It may not look like much, but I can guarantee the walls are sound.”

“That’s good,” Zara muses.

[Do we have any business here?] Serana wonders.

You shake your head. “No, not for some time yet. The defenses will hold just fine.”

…

It’s as you leave Beynac and cross the border into Noroit that you notice it.

[We’ve picked up a tail.]

Justina nods curtly. “Seems so.”

“Is that a problem?” Zara wonders aloud.

You have to admit you’re not sure. “It could become one. But if they notice us that works to our advantage in one sense.”

“That so?” Justina glances at you.

“At least we won’t be seen as spies or assassins, or anything similarly unsavory.”

[Can we make it to Palasisi without trouble?] Serana frowns.

>Turn and confront your tail. Try to figure out who they’re working for.
>Find an intermediate place to stop, see if you can find any local information.
>Proceed to the Noroit capital, Palasisi, without diversion.
>Other?

>>4721020
>Proceed to the Noroit capital, Palasisi, without diversion.

>>4721020
>Find an intermediate place to stop, see if you can find any local information.

>>4721020
>Find an intermediate place to stop, see if you can find any local information.

>>4721020
>Find an intermediate place to stop, see if you can find any local information.

>>4721020
>Find an intermediate place to stop, see if you can find any local information.

>>4719441
Cool beans, always good to see new folks trickle in!
>>4721020
>3d10, best of three

Rolled 3, 2, 3 = 8 (3d10)

>>4721867

Rolled 8, 9, 4 = 21 (3d10)

>>4721867

Rolled 5, 2, 6 = 13 (3d10)

>>4721867

>>4721867
You decide not to even force the issue, instead finding a town nearly midway between Beynac and Palasisi – Colton.

Colten is a bit more than many of the crossroads towns through which you often pass while travelling, slipping by more like ghostly apparitions that are just as soon forgotten as they are noticed. Instead of two roads meeting at a small church there are a few parallel roads, with a small cathedral. The main difference there is that instead of one low tower with a single bell there are two towers with a vaulted roof running between them, along with two small chapels one to either side. Like a true soaring city cathedral in miniature, it implies that there’s some official regional interest in the town along with the wealthy patrons that such construction typically requires.

You’d imagine it would be a nicer place to live than anywhere you saw in what once would have been Cuilan, partly due to the fact that the weather is so much less harsh and there are trees that can actually grow here in the lower hills.

“This is... lovely,” Zara offers awkwardly.

“Indeed,” Justina agrees.

You lead the group to an inn not too far from the little cathedral, where you secure a single room with two beds and a private toilet – the latter being one of the few things you’ve grown more willing to insist on when selecting an inn, despite not being much of a necessity for half-yōma warriors. Instead it’s more an indicator of a quality establishment where the proprietors actually care about their business.

Nearby is a pub, where you can send two of your group to gather information.

The problem…

[One terse, one mute, one awkward,] Serana observes.

Justina glances at her and nods quietly. “Right.”

“I’ll take Serana,” you decide. “Justina, Zara, the two of you can remain at the inn here. Less busy, no need to raise your voices or anything. A little less stressful for you I think, Zara.”

“Thanks,” she mutters. “Sorry.”

You shake your head. “Don’t be. We all have our… idiosyncrasies.”

It’s a short walk to the pub, where you set up at a high table with just two stools against one of the walls. You don’t bother to take your swords – that would be a bit much you figured, and you were most likely right in that instinct. You wouldn’t get too far if everyone in the room were too terrified of you to approach you.
>1/2

>>4722475
You listen carefully.

As always much of what you hear is about the local comings and goings, and the unimportant minutiae that only seem like the most important things in the lives of random strangers. But you do pick up a few other key details – the head priest of the local cathedral has turned some heads for having a resolutely neutral stance despite the fact that there is a significant minority who still cleave to the Inquisition’s line.

[Curious,] Serana muses thoughtfully.

You take a sip of the drink you’ve been nursing, an amber-colored ale you mostly ordered out of politeness, before setting it aside and signing back to her. [The priest?]

She nods. [Sometimes it takes more effort not to take a side. I would be curious to know if that comes from a wellspring of courage or from something else.]

>I agree. It’s entirely possible he may be a good source of information if we can speak with him on the quiet.
>I think we can determine that if we present a ‘problem’ to solve – like appearing at his cathedral unannounced.
>We should meet with the others, discuss what we’ve heard respectively and compare notes.
>Other?

>>4722614
Talk to him in the quiet.
If he is a problem we can leave

>>4722614
>I agree. It’s entirely possible he may be a good source of information if we can speak with him on the quiet.

>>4722614
>>I agree. It’s entirely possible he may be a good source of information if we can speak with him on the quiet.

>>4722614
>I agree. It’s entirely possible he may be a good source of information if we can speak with him on the quiet.

File: steve-irwin.jpg (239 KB, 995x644)

239 KB JPG

>>4719441
Steve welcomes you to the show and hopes you enjoy your stay. Just politely decline if he asks if you want to learn about Sabela, though.

>>4722614
>I agree. It’s entirely possible he may be a good source of information if we can speak with him on the quiet.

>>4722614
>>I agree. It’s entirely possible he may be a good source of information if we can speak with him on the quiet.

>>4722614
[He could be a good source of information,] you agree. [At very least. But we need to be subtle about it.]

[Then we should go tonight.]

[This priest probably lives on the grounds of the cathedral,] you suggest. [He should be easy to find. Go meet with Zara and Justina and bring them to the cathedral.]

[Right. Meet you later.]

[Assuming he’ll even speak with us.]

…

You don’t take long to see whether or not he’ll speak with you, or even listen to you – it’s just a few moments to walk there, and a few minutes to figure out where the priests who work at this particular cathedral actually live. It’s a humble communal quarters, but it’s behind a six-foot wall and a small herb garden that you’re not as eager to jump over then trample through in that order.

Thankfully, you find an older-looking man in the typical dark religious garb and stiff collar present in the cathedral despite the late hour. You may be in a fairly humble outfit, but the diadem of state marks you out as someone unusual even if no one here has ever seen it before.

“Good evening,” you greet the man calmly, raising your voice ever so slightly to catch his attention. “Where might I find the man in charge here?”

The priest lights another votive candle at a little table, before eventually turning his attention to you. “At the moment that would be me, Father Lenus went to bed early with a slight fever.”

“What is your name?” you ask.

“Brother Siam,” he replies curtly. “And who might you be?”

“Noel Tiberius di Hazaran,” you greet him with a slight but respectful gesture – a hand to your chest and a slight bow of your head. “Queen of Hazaran and one of what you would call the ‘silver eyed witches’, or something similar.”

“A queen, hm?” Siam snorts. “By what right?”

“By birth, a princess,” you muse. “By public confidence, queen.”

Siam walks out into the cathedral, almost as if ignoring your presence, to seemingly admire a statue of the twin goddesses. “Tell me something, are you a believer?”

>No. Not in the sense I think you mean.
>I was once. When I was much younger.
>I was taught that faith is a private matter.
>Other?

>>4724085
>I was taught that faith is a private matter.

>>4724085
>>I was once. When I was much younger.

>>4724085
>I was taught that faith is a private matter.

>>4724085
>Other?
"I believe in the Grace bestowed upon my fellow Swords."

>>4724085
>I was once. When I was much younger.

>>4724085
>>I was once. When I was much younger.

>>4724085
>I was taught that faith is a private matter.

>>4724085
>No. Not in the sense I think you mean.

>>4724085
“I was raised more religious than I am now,” you confess calmly. “My father moreso than I. But I was also taught that faith is a personal matter, and that someone else’s faith is none of my business.”

“If the queen is faithless,” Siam muses, crossing his arms behind his back as he continues to look at the statue, “then what will become of the kingdom?”

“If the queen enforces one set of religious practices, then what will become of faith?” you counter.

“Is obedience not a desirable outcome?”

“Obedience born of a sense of understanding and believing in one’s duty is one thing. Blind obedience is quite another.”

Serana, Justina, and Zara arrive at that moment exactly, and Justina holds up a hand to stop Zara from saying anything.

“The Inquisition would find everything you’ve just said deeply offensive,” Siam insists, finally turning to face you.

“Do you speak for the Inquisition?”

After a moment, Siam shakes his head. “No.”

“We came here to learn more about the situation with the king of this nation and the remnants of the Inquisition,” you explain. “I heard earlier this evening that the priests here at this cathedral are remarkably neutral towards the Inquisition, so I had hoped this would be a good place to start.”

“What reason would we have to tell you the truth?” Siam asks patiently.

“What reason would you have to lie?”

Siam considers this, before nodding in agreement. “What would you like to know?”

>I want to know everything you can tell me about these Inquisition loyalists and the king.
>Can you put me in touch with someone close to the king’s inner circle?
>How often do you see representatives of the Inquisition, and can we be present next time?
>Other?

>>4725748
>I want to know everything you can tell me about these Inquisition loyalists and the king.

>>4725748
>>I want to know everything you can tell me about these Inquisition loyalists and the king.
if he knows someone then:
>Can you put me in touch with someone close to the king’s inner circle?

>>4725748
>>I want to know everything you can tell me about these Inquisition loyalists and the king.

>>4725748
>I want to know everything you can tell me about these Inquisition loyalists and the king.

>>4725748
>Other?
Is the King alive and well, does he still reign or is he indisposed?

>>4725748
“What I need is information,” you insist curtly. “Information about the Inquisition loyalists and the king. Even the most basic details are impossible to ascertain from the outside – whether the king is still alive and in power or not, for starters.”

“Then I will resolve this matter for you,” Siam nods curtly. “The king still lives, however his rule has all but failed. An Inquisitorial ally, a governor by the name of Daemar, has gained sway over the business of court.”

“Who is he?”

“A small-time businessman who made just enough money to get into the game,” Siam clarifies. “He knew the right palms to grease, and the right contacts to cultivate.”

“But he made a mistake in backing the Inquisition,” you frown.

Siam shakes his head. “Not in the sense that he believes in the Inquisition’s zealotry. But from the point of view of a man seeking advancement above all else, yes.”

“And recently?” Justina presses.

“He and two governors have all but overthrown the king,” Siam tells you. “Governors in our nation possess significant resources, and Daemar has Inquisitorial troops at his call.”

“How many?”

“At least one hundred.”

“And these one hundred are enough?” Zara raises her eyebrow, clearly skeptical.

Siam nods. “When they’re all in the palace, yes.”

“That would take quite a bit of effort to set up,” you cross your arms. “The Inquisition was responsible for this?”

“Most likely.”

“Do any other governors have any designs on the palace?” you press. “Perhaps plans to retake the grounds from the Inquisitorial agents?”

“I suspect that to be the case,” Siam admits.

>Let me know their names and I will pursue that possibility.
>And what do your superiors in the church have to say about all this?
>So what will the reaction to our presence be?
>Other?

>>4727306
>And what do your superiors in the church have to say about all this?

>>4727306
>>And what do your superiors in the church have to say about all this?

>>4727306
>And what do your superiors in the church have to say about all this?

>>4727306
>And what do your superiors in the church have to say about all this?
>So what will the reaction to our presence be?

>>4727306
>And what do your superiors in the church have to say about all this?

>>4724085
“And what do your superiors within the church hierarchy think about all this?”

“You mean the Hierarchs?” Siam frowns. “There is some division.”

“Explain.”

“There are four Hierarchs,” Siam clarifies. “One is responsible for the western section of the nation, one for the east, one for the center, and one for the capital city itself. The Hierarch of the west is strongly against the Inquisition, the Hierarchs of the center and capital are in favor. The Hierarch of the east is neutral on the question.”

“I see,” you frown. So that’s part of why the nation itself is so divided.

“I see you must have just considered that the Hierarch of the west is part of why things have developed in this direction,” Siam nods curtly. “I do believe that is correct.”

[So any road to change must pass through the Hierarchs?]

“Would you suggest that the way to affect a change,” you translate, “would be to go through one of these Hierarchs?”

Siam nods once. “I believe so.”

“To convince one?” Justina wonders.

You can’t help but figure that would be the best course. “What use is there in discussing the matter with someone who agreed with our position already?”

[Fair.]

“Fair,” Justina agrees.

“Siam...”

>Could you put us in contact with the Hierarch of the east?
>The Hierarch of the center is in charge here, correct?
>The Hierarch of the capital is the main problem right now.
>Other?

>>4728324
>Could you put us in contact with the Hierarch of the east?

>>4728324
>>Could you put us in contact with the Hierarch of the east?

>>4728324
>>The Hierarch of the center is in charge here, correct?

>>4728324
>The Hierarch of the center is in charge here, correct?

>>4728324
>>Could you put us in contact with the Hierarch of the east?

>>4728324
>The Hierarch of the center is in charge here, correct?
Convincing the Hierarch of the east will only cause a 50/50 split. And the Hierarch of the capital is probably a part of the coup.

>>4728324
>The Hierarch of the center is in charge here, correct?

>apologies, stuff came up this afternoon and writing got seriously delayed
>should be able to update as usual tomorrow

>>4728324
“Can you put us in contact with the Hierarch of the center you mentioned?” you inquire. “It does us no good to win over someone who already agrees, nor someone undecided. Turning the Hierarch of the capital seems unlikely since that is where the Inquisition seems most entrenched, so that leaves one option.”

“Fair,” Justina nods curtly.

[Way easier when she thinks it all through like this in the first place,] Serana muses, glancing at Justina.

“Right?” Justina agrees.

Siam considers your request, before nodding in agreement. “The Hierarch and Father Lenus have kept an open dialog over the last several months in spite of their disagreements. I think this can be arranged.”

“Would you suggest it?” Zara wonders.

Siam shakes his head. “Maybe not, but your position and my own are different. What makes sense to either of us depends on our goals. So while I wouldn’t suggest it, it may be necessary for you to do it anyway.”

>We can wait for Father Lenus to recover. That may give us the edge we need with the Hierarch.
>I think we need to gather some information on the Hierarchs before this meeting takes place.
>I think speed is of the essence, and I doubt any new information could strengthen our case anyway.
>Other?

>>4731161
>>We can wait for Father Lenus to recover. That may give us the edge we need with the Hierarch.
>>I think we need to gather some information on the Hierarchs before this meeting takes place.
depending on his sickness of course, if it would take to long we might have wasted time

>>4731161
>We can wait for Father Lenus to recover. That may give us the edge we need with the Hierarch.
>I think we need to gather some information on the Hierarchs before this meeting takes place.

>>4731161
>>We can wait for Father Lenus to recover. That may give us the edge we need with the Hierarch.
>>I think we need to gather some information on the Hierarchs before this meeting takes place.

>>4731161
>We can wait for Father Lenus to recover. That may give us the edge we need with the Hierarch.
>I think we need to gather some information on the Hierarchs before this meeting takes place.
>Other?
What kind of sickness afflicts him? We can send for healers.

>>4731161
>>We can wait for Father Lenus to recover. That may give us the edge we need with the Hierarch.
>>I think we need to gather some information on the Hierarchs before this meeting takes place.

>>4731161
>>4731174

>>4731161
>We can wait for Father Lenus to recover. That may give us the edge we need with the Hierarch.
>I think we need to gather some information on the Hierarchs before this meeting takes place.

>>4731161
“We can wait a day or two for Father Lenus to recover,” you decide. “But we could also use a little more information in the mean time.”

“Such as?”

“The likely motivations for the various Hierarchs’ positions,” you suggest. “If we don’t know that much, how can we reach an agreement?”

Siam considers this for a moment, before making you an offer. “I can show you some personal letters between our cathedral and the Hierarch in question.”

...

By the next day, after having all four of you read and re-read a small stack of handwritten messages, you have a general idea of who this Hierarch is as a person. You get the impression that he has a meticulous personality, very much detail-oriented almost to the point of missing any bigger picture surrounding what he’s writing about. Well-educated, judging by his choices of words, though prone to affectations based on the evenness of his handwritten characters. He may even have some sort of psychological complex.

The topics of these letters are also illuminating – many have to do with the funding required for maintaining both the grand cathedrals and the smaller churches scattered all across Noroit. It seems that here the church has its fingers in the kingdom’s tax revenue to a greater degree than you’re used to.

Which presents a certain dilemma: when the Inquisition wanted more money they had to raise it through the king and the royal coffers, meaning that they had to exert their influence to force the king to raise taxes. The Hierarchs and the church officials below also got a cut of that increased revenue essentially pilfered from other sources, including the raised taxes and from the regular military forces of the kingdom of Noroit.

While many people objected to the hard line approach favored by the Inquisition in all matters, many of the seniormost officials in the church could be convinced to look the other way.

It seems that the Hierarch of the center, a man by the name of Thomas Quinaris, was among those who were involved with the Inquisition mainly for the coin. But so long as the Inquisition holds sway within the capital city it may be difficult to convince him that it would be better to abandon the Inquisition.

...

Father Lenus, as it turns out, has pneumonia – not a good thing for a man his age. And so it falls to Siam to make the arrangements for you to meet Hierarch Quinaris.

The meeting takes place two days later in a chapel at the cathedral.
>1/2

>>4733496
Thomas Quinaris is a man of profound and rather tacky opulence to whom you take an immediate dislike. He’s slightly overweight, but for his age has a great volume of hair of a surprisingly natural black color. So in other words he has largely wasted a fine starting point, like a once-great racing horse put out to pasture well before his time.

“Four silver-eyed witches is a rare sight,” he muses as he takes a seat. “Especially these days.”

Only one seat was provided between the four of you, a fact to which none present were at any point blind. This seat is yours essentially by default.

“We have business,” you reply flatly, not at all appreciative of his tone.

“Oh very well,” Quinaris shrugs. “I gather you’re here working against the Inquisition, so since you seem eager to get to business I suggest you spit it out.”

>I am the one taking the West out of the picture, you know. You should welcome this.
>Consider this – why the need for four Hierarchs? The capital is already in the “East”.
>How long do you think your marriage to the Inquisition will remain worthwhile?
>Other?

>>4733513
>>How long do you think your marriage to the Inquisition will remain worthwhile?

>>4733513
>Consider this – why the need for four Hierarchs? The capital is already in the “East”.

>>4733513
>How long do you think your marriage to the Inquisition will remain worthwhile?
Once they realize they can't tax the populace any higher, they will go after your share.

>>4733513
>Consider this – why the need for four Hierarchs? The capital is already in the “East”.

>>4733513
>How long do you think your marriage to the Inquisition will remain worthwhile?

>>4733513
>How long do you think your marriage to the Inquisition will remain worthwhile?

>>4733513
“I wonder,” you muse, “how long you think your marriage to the Inquisition will remain convenient?”

“They certainly gave Hazaran trouble,” Quinaris muses.

“Gave,” Justina observes flatly.

“I wasn’t there,” Zara admits nervously, “so I wouldn’t know. Miss Noel?”

“The Inquisition tried and failed to take a foothold in my kingdom,” you admit, crossing your arms. “And now they are in full retreat, struggling to fund themselves and remain relevant.”

“What is your point?”

“My point is that if you were counting on them for anything, I would keep in mind that there will be a certain point where it no longer makes sense to do so,” you muse. “I would counsel you to be prepared for that.”

“I see,” Quinaris frowns. “And so what would you propose?”

>The west of Noroit wishes to become Hazari territory. I want to know what it will take for you to let that happen.
>I want you to help me deal with the Inquisition and the Hierarch of the Capital. It would work to your benefit too.
>I’m sure that the king could give you a better deal than the Inquisition can, all things considered.
>Other?

>>4735613
>I want you to help me deal with the Inquisition and the Hierarch of the Capital. It would work to your benefit too.

>>4735613
>I want you to help me deal with the Inquisition and the Hierarch of the Capital. It would work to your benefit too.

>>4735613
>I’m sure that the king could give you a better deal than the Inquisition can, all things considered.

>>4735613
>I’m sure that the king could give you a better deal than the Inquisition can, all things considered.

>>4735613
>>I’m sure that the king could give you a better deal than the Inquisition can, all things considered.

>A king is a king, the Inquisition only lasts as long as it takes a semi-intelligent Youma to realize that if they try to chase the only people who can detect them when they hide as humans away, that the lands held by the inquisition are an all you can eat buffet.

>>4735613
“I think you underestimate the sort of deal the king may just be willing to make with you,” you suggest. “I think all you need to do is make the offer.”

Quinaris considers it carefully for a moment. “Perhaps.”

[It certainly does seem like this could be turned to his advantage,] Serana offers.

You nod in agreement. “Nothing earns credit with someone like riding to their rescue at just the right moment.”

“A fair point,” Quinaris admits. “However if things go poorly, I could be the one who gets in trouble for it. Many wealthy men would tell you this – that while wealth certainly can be made through taking risks, it can only be maintained by being conservative.”

“And you would argue that power works the same way.”

“Yes, I would.”

“Then I shall keep that in mind,” you muse.

>Weigh the risk of action against the risks of inaction. I think you’ll agree that acting is in your interests.
>Our cohort can serve as an intermediary. We take the risks if you’ll offer your political backing.
>Perhaps you don’t need to approach it yourself. Work through church intermediaries.
>Other?

>>4737345
>Perhaps you don’t need to approach it yourself. Work through church intermediaries.

>>4737345
>Perhaps you don’t need to approach it yourself. Work through church intermediaries.

>>4737345
Also
>Consider that Hazaran is intending to work against Inquisition everywhere, and Noroit is actually one of the holdouts. Very soon the Inquisition could lose all power and drag its supporters down with it.

>>4737345
>Perhaps you don’t need to approach it yourself. Work through church intermediaries.

>>4737345
“Why would you need to do this personally?” you ask, watching the Hierarch skeptically. “Would a church intermediary not be the preferable way to contact the king and make arrangements?”

Quinaris nods slowly. “Perhaps you have a point there as well.”

“In your position I would also consider the fact that the Inquisition is currently in refugia,” you add.

“Meaning?”

“They’re beaten,” Justina translates.

Serana nods silently, while Zara glances at you. “Miss Noel?”

“Their blood is in the proverbial water,” you declare. “Hazaran showed the world that they can be beaten, and driven back. The more Hazaran grows in regional influence – which is a trend that is set to continue – the further the Inquisition will fall into irrelevance.”

“And the last thing I would want is to shackle myself to a faction which has lost broad geopolitical relevance,” Quinaris muses. “I think I see what you’re trying to sell, Noel Tiberius di Hazaran.”

“And?” you press.

“And I do believe that I can accommodate,” Quinaris tells you. “But can you make it worth my while?”

>We can cut you a similar deal to what Tarsus got – temporary rights to revenue generated in western Noroit.
>You care about your churches and their funding, right? So how about a good old-fashioned payoff?
>I’m sure we can come to some sort of mutually beneficial agreement in terms of trade agreements and tariffs.
>Other?

>>4739447
>I’m sure we can come to some sort of mutually beneficial agreement in terms of trade agreements and tariffs.
If he is smart, Quinaris will realize that a steady revenue stream is better than a temporary payoff.

>>4739447
>I’m sure we can come to some sort of mutually beneficial agreement in terms of trade agreements and tariffs.

>>4739447
>I’m sure we can come to some sort of mutually beneficial agreement in terms of trade agreements and tariffs.

>>4739447
>I’m sure we can come to some sort of mutually beneficial agreement in terms of trade agreements and tariffs.

>>4739617
>>4739447
Agreed, especially if he can claim he was the one who secured it

>>4739447
>>I’m sure we can come to some sort of mutually beneficial agreement in terms of trade agreements and tariffs.

>>4739447
“I think we can come to some sort of arrangement,” you muse. “There must be some combination of trade agreements and tariff reductions with your largest neighbor that can make it worth your while?”

“Perhaps so,” Quinaris agrees.

“So?”

Quinaris spares Justina a glance. “So... what?”

“Do you intend to do what we want you to do?” Zara clarifies.

“If by that you mean to ask ‘do we have a deal’, I believe the answer is yes. We do, for now.”
>3d10, best of three

Rolled 8, 9, 4 = 21 (3d10)

>>4741877

Rolled 5, 9, 9 = 23 (3d10)

>>4741877

Rolled 1, 10, 9 = 20 (3d10)

>>4741877

>>4741877
You instruct the Hierarch to send word via the civil leadership of western Noroit when he’s ready to negotiate terms, and excuse yourselves. The return trip to Hazaran is uneventful, travelled by safe roads and conducted without incident.

Eventually you arrive in Scaithness, to settle into something of a rhythm. Affairs of state are balanced with regional patrols to seek out and destroy yōma – a duty you find yourselves performing less often than you used to. It’s strange, but in finding yourselves called upon less frequently to do what you were intended to do by design and by training you feel some satisfaction. But also, deep inside, you get the sense that some among your number are now beginning to seriously question what their roles in a world without yōma would be.

Some of the potential answers are rather... disquieting.

>Any further unfinished business before a timeskip?

>>4744105
Finding a husband or a love? If Noel's affairs are starting to turn to a point where she's getting called less and less to hunt down Yoma, she might be finding time for other pursuits.

>>4744105
Maybe something related to this >>4744909
If we don't want to go husbando hunting, maybe arranging a huge ball in the capital. Gotta show your face to the nobles from time to time. Maybe it also helps rest of the Claymores to get used to the nobility and others.

>>4744105
Holding hands with Serana.
:>

>>4744909
Yeah, why not arrange a social event for our girls to kick back and relax a bit?

>>4744105
OH, meeting Lawrence and telling him he needs to work on his interpersonal skills, if he really threatened the king, or was misunderstood, both need addressing

>>4744105
Get some training for our girls for what they can do when NOT hunting youma.

Also get them all some nice dresses for the ball.

>>4744105
There are a few things that happen over the next few months that are worthy of note, in addition to the slow march towards the formation of a new Hazari state.

The first of those is actually Noventus’ idea – a state function, the first of its kind since your reign began. His argument was that “there are certain expectations of a monarch”, to which you responded that “I hardly have the time to entertain pointless socialites and bored dignitaries”, to which he responded in turn “oh yes you do I’ve kept track of your post-mission reports from slaying yōma”, after which you demanded to know who sold you out.

At very least Gaius and Dominica seemed excited when they heard the news, having hardly ever had such an opportunity since your father’s death. They both made the plans and coordinated the preparation all from a working memory of the palace, without setting aside their duties in attending you and your cohort.

Speaking of whom, if you have to wear a dress they’re all going to have to do it with you. Others among them like Aurora and Helen may have equal standing among your fellow warriors but you are the queen, so you get to make certain decisions like whether misery enjoys company or not. And you’ve decided it does, very much.

“How will this play out I wonder?” your mother muses when you admit to her what it is you’re being roped into doing. “Such a number of silver-eyed warriors in dresses is something no one has seen in decades, at the least.”

“Such a number?” you repeat.

Sabela nods thoughtfully. “There was one time I had to lead a hunting party after a target hiding as a socialite. We closed in on it at a gala.”

>You will attend in a formal gown. The others may do as they please so long as it’s appropriate.
>You will all attend in matching outfits, the only difference being your crown of state.
>Screw it, you’re the queen. If you want to wear traditional Hazari it’s your call to make.
>Other?

>>4746650
>You will attend in a formal gown. The others may do as they please so long as it’s appropriate.

>>4746650
>Screw it, you’re the queen. If you want to wear traditional Hazari it’s your call to make.

>>4746650
>>You will all attend in matching outfits, the only difference being your crown of state.

>>4746934
I don't like this option because it sets us apart from our subjects and identifies us more with other warriors. People may wonder whose interests we're actually protecting.

>>4746650
>Screw it, you’re the queen. If you want to wear traditional Hazari it’s your call to make.

>>4746650
>You will attend in a formal gown. The others may do as they please so long as it’s appropriate.
>Screw it, you’re the queen. If you want to wear traditional Hazari it’s your call to make.

Go something traditional Hazari, but with the emphasis on looking like a fucking queen.

>>4746650
>You will attend in a formal gown. The others may do as they please so long as it’s appropriate.
>Other?
The most feminine and frilly dresses for the shy ones.
Shocking and proactive for the more mature ones.
We shall dress like a horse, and our horse shall dress like a org handler.

>>4746650
>You will attend in a formal gown. The others may do as they please so long as it’s appropriate.

>>4746650
>>You will attend in a formal gown. The others may do as they please so long as it’s appropriate.

>>4746650
>>You will attend in a formal gown. The others may do as they please so long as it’s appropriate.

>>4746650
>You will attend in a formal gown. The others may do as they please so long as it’s appropriate.

>>4746650
>>4746991

>>4746650
The first thing you personally have to do is settle on a formal outfit for yourself – a deel seems appropriate. You choose red, in Hazaran representative of vitality and sacred preservation, for the base color. Figured yellow-gold and white lotus flowers and vines wrap the sleeves, collar, and lower hem in wide bands, symbolizing the growth of wisdom and a rooting in realism and practical awareness. This is held closed with a yellow sash, which itself you wear underneath a short-sleeved overcoat that comes down to your knees.

Its pattern heavily features the endless knot motif, predominantly in red, with the balance in blacks, yellows, reds, and whites in various geometric patterns.

As for your comrades in arms, simpler clothing is honestly better. But what adds a little difficulty is that you made the agreement to find clothing from each of your companions’ homelands. Valentina, a pleasant Hazari deel with patterns similar to your own but lacking the overcoat. Serana as well, as she silently insists that Hazaran is now her home. Laura, Helen, and Nora wear linen dresses with laces on the front and a little embroidery, taken from Cerces, while Zara, Ilse, Vera, and Sabrina all wear dresses with laces in the back from Edessa. Petraean silk for Justina, Vanessa, and Claire, figured Sakian silk for Lucia, Zoe, and Lunara. Multiple layered dresses from Galatia for Sabrina, Alexa, and Valeria, slightly different cuts from Morbian for Carlotta and Jenna. Sofia, Marie, Connie, Hanna, Renate, and Gina all wear generic but pleasant dresses from parts various – as they all hardly remember where they came from.

That takes several weeks on its own.

But the result is that your people all show up that evening in dramatic fashion, making a striking appearance. Costume from many nations on your continent, and your own appearance, set you and your companions apart even among the many socialites and lesser nobles who turn up at the gala.

Gaius and Dominica did impeccable work too, for that matter. The Hazari fare on offer is truly a marvel, and more than a mere meal – it is as if Dominica has transcribed some manner of old religious gospel into the culinary language, with indigenous dishes and acquisitions from neighboring regions that have since taken on a Hazari twist.

While it’s an opportunity for them all to let their hair down few really seem to take advantage of that opportunity, and many of the socialites collectively give the silver-eyed crowd plenty of room. There are however also some notable exceptions – Vigilus and a small number of his fellow monks ‘chat’ animatedly with those among your number who are fully versed in their system of hand signals, particularly with Serana who might otherwise struggle to find anyone new to talk to.
>1/2

>>4749689
Noventus makes it a point to talk to everyone present, either individually or in small groups, while a few of the more adventurous horse-lord landowners of the realm at very least offer some respectful conversation. Laura and a certain Lord from Accerae get into a long discussion about this year’s grape harvest.

At one point late in the evening you’re approached by the representatives of the merchants’ guild – including, notably, Lawrence.

He bows politely. “Queen Noel, thank you kindly for your invitation.”

You respond to his bow with a courteous nod. “Lawrence.”

>I’d like to make sure we stay on better terms than the last monarch you lived under.
>So, can you at least tell me who put you up to it with the Tarsans?
>That stuff the guild pulled in Tarsus won’t be acceptable here. I want you to know that.
>Other?

>>4749692
>>So, can you at least tell me who put you up to it with the Tarsans? Please be honest with me.

i want to frame it this way, give him the benefit of the doubt, we didn't have much contact over all this time, but i think Noel wants/wanted to see him as a friend

>>4749692
>I’d like to make sure we stay on better terms than the last monarch you lived under.
>So, can you at least tell me who put you up to it with the Tarsans?

>>4749692
>So, can you at least tell me who put you up to it with the Tarsans?

>>4749692
>So, can you at least tell me who put you up to it with the Tarsans?

>>4749692
>I’d like to make sure we stay on better terms than the last monarch you lived under.
>That stuff the guild pulled in Tarsus won’t be acceptable here. I want you to know that.

>>4749692
>So, can you at least tell me who put you up to it with the Tarsans?

>>4749692
>>4749739

>>4749692
“So,” you muse, “may I ask who put you up to it with the Tarsans?”

“Ah, so you heard about that,” he muses nervously. “I assume the king mentioned it to you?”

“He may have done.”

“Well, it’s difficult to say,” he admits, “mostly because I don’t actually know the names of those who ‘put me up to it’, as you say.”

“How is that?” you frown. “Please clarify.”

“Most of the ‘leadership’ in the guild are functionaries,” Lawrence explains carefully. “Myself included of course.”

“Of course.”

“The ones who actually make the decisions prefer to remain anonymous.”

“I see,” you nod. You can tell that Lawrence is trying to hide his discomfort at the facts behind the guild’s organization. “How widely is that known?”

“Not very,” he informs you, “By design.”

>Well, in that case have a pleasant evening.
>What are the odds I could meet with one or more of them?
>Ask another question?
>Other?

>>4753052
>>What are the odds I could meet with one or more of them?

>>4753052
>What are the odds I could meet with one or more of them?

Don't we use the guild for espionage?

>>4753052
>>What are the odds I could meet with one or more of them?
>They had to realize that this would cause professional issues, why would they think it is worth it?

>>4753268
Profit? Money?

>>4753052
>>4753268
Supporting

>>4753052
>What are the odds I could meet with one or more of them?

>>4753052
“What are the odds that I could meet with one or more of them?” you muse. “Potentially through some sort of intermediary?”

Lawrence shakes his head. “Not good.”

“Is there even an intermediary to work through?”

“Not to my knowledge.”

“Then where did you get your instructions?” you quiz him, tilting your head ever so slightly as you wait for an answer.

He sighs. “I’ll admit that I’ve never given it much thought, or asked too many questions about it. The way I reason, they have a reason for wanting to keep their identities secret.”

“Doesn’t that make for significant issues?” you ask. “Accountability, clear chain of authority, and so forth? You know, basic organizational principles?”

“They must be concerned that having their controlling stakes in the guild known would make it possible for outsiders to exert undue influence.”

“Either through blackmail or retaliation,” you realize, putting the pieces together in your mind. “I suppose given what little glimpse I have had into how they operate, I can understand their concern. But wouldn’t the way to handle that be to avoid doing things that would call for retaliation?”

“Moderation rarely brings in the big profits,” Lawrence shrugs. “And the guild is very much in the business of improving profits for its members. My question has always been whether that comes first or second.”

“Hm,” you nod along. “Well, I’m afraid I have been monopolizing you – and I certainly did not invite you here for the sole purpose of grilling you.”

“But that was one of your purposes?”

You gesture for him to go on about his merry way. “Have a pleasant evening.”

He bows politely. “Same to you, Queen Noel.”

>Check in on your cohort, see how they’re handling the socializing.
>Check with Gaius. It’s important that this evening go perfectly.
>Continue to network with the guests – see what interesting tidbits you pick up.
>Other?

>>4755564
>>Check in on your cohort, see how they’re handling the socializing.

>>4755564
>>Continue to network with the guests – see what interesting tidbits you pick up.

>>4755564
>Continue to network with the guests – see what interesting tidbits you pick up.

>>4755564
>Continue to network with the guests – see what interesting tidbits you pick up.

>>4755564
>>Continue to network with the guests – see what interesting tidbits you pick up.

>>4755564
>Check in on your cohort, see how they’re handling the socializing.

>>4755564
>Check in on your cohort, see how they’re handling the socializing.
Give them some tips and pointers, hope some of them know how to dance.

>>4755564
There’s a certain kind of opportunity here – dancing. The Organization’s trainers always emphasized the value of gathering information in social contexts, and of course as a part of that training all warriors like you were taught to dance some of the most common steps across the continent. Most of those are of course the formal ballroom type, like the waltz and its more energetic cousin the furiant.

But Hazari dances are their own breed, as with many other things. Many of them are no less appealing than the traditional waltzes, but each has their own deeper significance and idiosyncratic qualities.

The one you select, by request to the chamber orchestra, is a celebratory dance similar to the furiant’s changes in time between 2/4 and 3/4. It’s largely circular, with rising and falling movements of your whole body, along with intricate changes in your relative positions. The old meaning is rooted in the celebration of the inevitable triumph of good over evil.

“I’m not familiar with this one,” Nessa admits to you.

“It’s fine,” you insist, gesturing for Valentina and Lara for help. “There are a few of us here who know the steps, so just follow us.”

>3d10, best of three

Rolled 9, 4, 3 = 16 (3d10)

>>4757276

Rolled 3, 8, 7 = 18 (3d10)

>>4757276

Rolled 1, 8, 10 = 19 (3d10)

>>4757276

>>4757276
As you dance, you overhear the fragments of a conversation.

You signal to Serana to listen in as well, and the message ripples across the hall as your cohort pass one another. Eventually, you get the gist of what one specific landed noble from the former territory of Cuilan was discussing with what you gather is a friend of his.

The details are scarce, but it seems that there has been some sort of disturbance on the central north coast. Strange ships, men wearing unfamiliar uniforms, all seemingly setting up encampments. To be honest it could be anyone based on those scarce descriptions.

>Pay further attention to this, try to subtly gather more information.
>Work with your cohort to isolate the speaker and press for more details.
>Have Noventus try to corroborate this information while you host.
>Other?

>>4757452
>>Have Noventus try to corroborate this information while you host.

>>4757452
>Have Noventus try to corroborate this information while you host.

>>4757452
>Have Noventus try to corroborate this information while you host.
Better to act now, they've already got a beachhead that will turn into a foothold soon enough.

>>4757452
>Other?
Can we recontract the shipwreck survivors to see if we can ID whomever is making the landings assuming that it is in fact the organization may be a misstep.

>>4757452
>Have Noventus try to corroborate this information while you host.

>>4757452
>Have Noventus try to corroborate this information while you host.

>>4757452
As the dancing continues you manage to isolate Noventus, stepping aside for a moment.

“I have heard some rumors,” you admit with a polite bow, suggesting the sort of good-cheer dance one might have expected if one knew your history with Noventus – the now-grown daughter of the former king and the once-loyal older officer now a trusted regent. “I wanted your opinions as a student of military science.”

“Rumors to what effect, Lady Noel?” he replies politely, dancing to the tune you have set for him.

“Do you know the theories of amphibious invasion?”

He offers a slight, albeit well-timed, bow. “Somewhat. Are you planning an excursion?”

“Perhaps,” you admit. “What military force can you think of that would be capable of carrying out a major landing operation?”

“I know of few,” he admits. “The key problem is that the landing craft move far too slowly for it to be practical, and carry too few troops at once to be impactful.”

“So if a large force were to land in northern Sakia and take a foothold,” you press carefully, “then what would your guess as to their loyalties be?”

“I have my doubts that it would be likely to be any nation known to me,” Noventus decides after considering the question for a moment. “Sakia is one of the few nations I would imagine might be capable of it, and few other nations that could would have reason to make such an attempt.”

“So when left without a reasonable alternative,” you continue, “you might look beyond our familiar shores for the answer?”

He nods. “I might. I assume you have?”

“I have,” you admit. “Please do everything within your power to confirm the situation in Sakia and place our existing northern defenses on high alert. Also recall the outsiders, the ones from the shipwreck. I want to get their opinions as well."

"Right away, with your permission."

>Check on the members of your cohort you think are dealing with this the least-well.
>You’ll be expected to speak publicly at some point, so get that out of the way.
>Other?

>>4760028
>You’ll be expected to speak publicly at some point, so get that out of the way.

>>4760028
>Check on the members of your cohort you think are dealing with this the least-well

>>4760028
>Check on the members of your cohort you think are dealing with this the least-well.

>>4760028
>>You’ll be expected to speak publicly at some point, so get that out of the way.

>>4760028
>Check on the members of your cohort you think are dealing with this the least-well.

>>4760028
>>Check on the members of your cohort you think are dealing with this the least-well.

>>4760028
Among your number are some warriors whose “people skills” took greater root than for others – yourself, Valentina, Aurora. Even Justina if you can overlook her terse manners to see her openness. But then there are others for whom things are quite different. Sofia, Sabrina, and Ilse come immediately to mind.

At very least among the newest warriors Zara tries despite being much too nervous for her own good, and while Hanna is fairly taciturn around most people she at least has Renate to confide in. Sofia chooses not to speak much of the time, and Sabrina’s attitude could use some adjustment – but much like Zara it’s clear that they’re at least aware of their own social standing and the cues they’re giving others around them. So that’s why you seek out Ilse.

“How are you?” you ask her curiously, having found her near one wall of the formal hall, simply watching. “We have not spoken in some time. At least, not in any meaningful sense.”

“What do you wish to speak of?” she counters.

“How about you?” you offer.

“What about me?”

>Where are you from?
>What was your life like before?
>What do you like?
>Other?

>>4761955
>>Where are you from?

>>4761955
>Where are you from?
>What do you like?

>>4761955
>Where are you from?

>>4761955
>Where are you from?
>What do you like?

>>4761955
>What was your life like before?
Just to be contrarian.

>>4761955
>>What do you like?

>>4761955
“Tell me about where you’re from,” you muse.

“Edessa,” Ilse replies curtly.

You nod. “I know that much, but Edessa is only the name of a country. In fact knowing that tells me nothing.”

“A small town,” she continues. “It was so long ago I can hardly remember.”

“I see...” you frown quietly. “If those memories aren’t ones you wish to talk about...”

“No,” she shakes her head. “I feel no shame in them. The Organization bought many girls, we both know that. I was sold into a servant contract by my father when I was seven.”

“Domestic work?”

Ilse nods to confirm it. “I spent three years as a house servant before the family I was sold to lost much of its fortune.”

“And the Organization offered to buy your contract.”

“Correct.”

>You’ve struck me as unusually distant ever since we first met. Is that the reason?
>Do you know what ‘misfortune’ led to your sale to the Organization?
>Well, I’d take this chance to make some fond memories for yourself.
>Other?

>>4763833
>>You’ve struck me as unusually distant ever since we first met. Is that the reason?

>>4763833
>>You’ve struck me as unusually distant ever since we first met. Is that the reason?

>>4763833
>You’ve struck me as unusually distant ever since we first met. Is that the reason?

>>4763833
>>You’ve struck me as unusually distant ever since we first met. Is that the reason?

>>4763833
>You’ve struck me as unusually distant ever since we first met. Is that the reason?

>>4763833
>Well, I’d take this chance to make some fond memories for yourself.

>>4763833
“Is that what makes you so distant?”

“Yes.”

You can’t help but frown. “That felt too easy.”

“I don’t trust easily,” Ilse admits. “Especially when someone reminds me of any of the people who once owned me. In your case, the rich family I served.”

“Do I now?” you wonder aloud. “What has that effect the most?”

“You paid to dress me, though I suspect you don’t mean to hold that over me,” she begins, “you wear fancy customized jewelry, though I suspect yours is the genuine article and not an affectation, and you have some fairly patrician hobbies.”

“Have you ever heard of the ‘struggling artist’ trope?” you muse.

Ilse nods. “Admittedly. But few ‘struggling artists’ live in their own castle.”

“A castle where five other people share my room with me.”

“Point taken.”

You nod, silently thanking the younger warrior for so easily accepting your perspective when she didn’t have to – and in fact, when many regular people wouldn’t have done so. After all a queen is still a queen regardless of how many people share her room with her, so the difference is one of fundamental characterization.

“One further point,” Ilse continues, “I’m not sure how I feel about a silver-eyed warrior serving as queen of a major nation. I’m not sure how I feel serving under that sort of arrangement.”

“You wonder when you might be asked to kill a human.”

“The politics of the region make that a genuine uncertainty.”

After a moment or two, you nod in agreement. “It doesn’t seem like a ‘certainty’ to me, but I can understand how you might feel that way. And I will agree that it is a possibility.”

“A possibility?” she repeats.

>I can’t promise that I won’t need to ask you to do things that might be less than comfortable.
>I won’t ask any of you to do anything that you can’t in good conscience agree to do.
>I think the Organization’s backers are staging an invasion. What are your thoughts on that?
>We fought off the Inquisition in a siege of Scaithness without crossing any moral lines.
>Other?

>>4766760
>>I won’t ask any of you to do anything that you can’t in good conscience agree to do.

>>4766760
>I think the Organization’s backers are staging an invasion. What are your thoughts on that?

>>4766760
>I think the Organization’s backers are staging an invasion. What are your thoughts on that?

>>4766760
>I won’t ask any of you to do anything that you can’t in good conscience agree to do

>>4766760
>Look at it this way, i can ask you, so can Helen, but you are the one that can refuse.
This isnt the organization, we try to NOT put you in situations you cant handle.

>>4766760
>>We fought off the Inquisition in a siege of Scaithness without crossing any moral lines.
but
>I can’t promise that I won’t need to ask you to do things that might be less than comfortable.
however
>You can always say no.

>>4766760
>I think the Organization’s backers are staging an invasion. What are your thoughts on that?

>>4766760
>>4766884

>>4766760
“I’m starting to think that the Organization’s mainland backers are trying to create a foothold on the north coast,” you admit frankly. “Noventus is going to get more information for us to work with. How do you feel about that sort of scenario?”

“Honestly, it concerns me.”

“It should,” you agree. “It should concern us all, and though I suppose your concerns and mine are slightly different I know many of us think more as you do.”

Ilse frowns slightly. “So you admit that you think differently?”

“I do,” you admit, keeping your voice quiet enough as you continue to move that only a warrior with your sort of extraordinary hearing could pick it out from the many voices and the sounds of footfalls that fill the room. “Those of us who were separated from the Organization earlier faced a situation where continual retreat would only end in a meaningless death. We had to find ways to fight against unaugmented humans without crossing the arbitrary line that would bring the Organization’s hunters down on us.”

“So you had to draw a line somewhere.”

“That’s right.”

“And you would say you have never killed a human?” Ilse presses curiously. “What about humans who died because of you?”

“I can’t claim that no humans have ever died as a result of my actions or my inactions,” you admit, “but then again neither can you.”

Ilse frowns. “Explain.”

“As warriors of the Organization,” you reason, “the missions we did not take, for whatever reason, probably ended in human death. And the outcome of the missions we did take was never certain. Surely you understand that humans who come into contact with yōma and warriors alike are often banished or killed out of fear?”

“I have heard stories.”

“We all have,” you insist. “And so we all know on some level that we’re neither gods nor saints, we’re just humans of unusual means... and often fragile at that.”

“So let’s say I trust you enough to follow your lead,” Ilse asks you, still frowning. “What do you intend to do from here?”

>Rule my nation. Create and maintain the most stability and prosperity for them that I can.
>I intend to load the proverbial dice in Hazaran’s favor, even if it means fighting the Organization.
>I want to help the rest of our kind find a role in the world outside the Organization’s control.
>Other?

>>4768545
>>I intend to load the proverbial dice in Hazaran’s favor, even if it means fighting the Organization.
>>I want to help the rest of our kind find a role in the world outside the Organization’s control.

>>4768545
>I want to help the rest of our kind find a role in the world outside the Organization’s control.

>>4768545
>>I want to help the rest of our kind find a role in the world outside the Organization’s control.
and
>I intend to load the proverbial dice in Hazaran’s favor, even if it means fighting the Organization.
> I want a future for our people and as many people on this island as possible. I want to end the inhumane and unnecessary experiments of the organization.

>>4768545
>I intend to load the proverbial dice in Hazaran’s favor, even if it means fighting the Organization.
>I want to help the rest of our kind find a role in the world outside the Organization’s control.

>>4768545
>>4768582

>>4768545
>>I intend to load the proverbial dice in Hazaran’s favor, even if it means fighting the Organization.
>>I want to help the rest of our kind find a role in the world outside the Organization’s control.

>>4768545
“My goal is to weight the proverbial dice as heavily as I can to favor my own kind,” you admit. “That goes for both the people of Hazaran, and for the other survivors of the Organization’s experiments. I want to make a future for both.”

“And what does that look like?” Ilse presses you.

“For Hazaran it looks like the new national borders and the associated agreements,” you admit. “I was fortunate that I made several personal connections as a wandering yōma hunter which eventually became political alliances.”

“Strengthening Hazaran’s economy and making it more independent,” Ilse completes the thought aloud. “Or something like that?”

“Something a lot like that,” you agree. “As for our fellow warriors, I realize I was fortunate again in that I had somewhere to go after the disastrous battle against Constanzia and Rafaela. Not all warriors would even have homes to return to, or a purpose to call their own that the Organization didn’t give to them.”

“So that’s why the Organization staging an invasion concerns you,” Ilse nods. “You have a lot to lose.”

“Only because I’ve gained so much,” you reply calmly. “Not quite family, more than simply friends. We’ve shed our blood together, helped each other through things no human should have to experience.”

“I understand several of your longest-term companions are literally carried by those they’ve lost,” Ilse frowns. “That reality is something no one, not even Zoe, ever told us to expect.”

“You’ve seen my sword.”

“I have.”

“Then you know that even those of us who are physically whole are not truly whole without each other.”

“It’s difficult for me to accept that people feel that way,” she admits.

>We all have our differences, so just take your time to come to terms.
>Then put it to the test. You’ll see the proof in our actions soon enough.
>Whether you accept it or not I’ll fight for all of you when the time comes.
>Other?

>>4770121
>We all have our differences, so just take your time to come to terms.

>>4770121
>>We all have our differences, so just take your time to come to terms.

>>4770121
>Whether you accept it or not I’ll fight for all of you when the time comes.

>>4770121
>We all have our differences, so just take your time to come to terms.

>>4770121
>We all have our differences, so just take your time to come to terms.
+
You’ll see the proof in our actions soon enough.

>>4770121
“We all have our differences,” you admit. “Not all of us who survived fighting Rafaela, Constanzia, and their band see eye to eye. I still don’t think Sabrina likes or trusts me, and it took a while to earn Lucia’s trust. It’s fine if you can’t bring yourself to trust us immediately either.”

“I know Marie and Connie are skeptical too,” Ilse admits.

“Take your time,” you insist. “I’m not so fragile as to demand anything from you immediately, and the rest of us aren’t going anywhere either.”

Ilse looks at you curiously, before eventually nodding in agreement. “Okay then, thank you.”

You lower your head respectfully as well. “Of course – and do at least try to enjoy yourself?”

She shakes her head. “I can’t make any promises. But I can try.”

>See how Nora is doing. You remember her as being unusually skittish.
>You need some advice from Zoe and Laura about what’s going on in the north.
>There are certain guests who need to be seen to… for the optics mostly.
>Other?

>>4772348
>>See how Nora is doing. You remember her as being unusually skittish.

>>4772348
>See how Nora is doing. You remember her as being unusually skittish.
>There are certain guests who need to be seen to… for the optics mostly.
>Other?
Try to get everyone to partner up and dance.

>>4772353
>>4772348

>>4772348
>See how Nora is doing. You remember her as being unusually skittish.
>There are certain guests who need to be seen to… for the optics mostly.

>>4772348
>See how Nora is doing. You remember her as being unusually skittish.
>There are certain guests who need to be seen to… for the optics mostly.

>>4772348
>>4772353
Dis

>>4772348
>3d10, best of the first three

Rolled 8, 4, 3 = 15 (3d10)

>>4774464

Rolled 8, 7, 1 = 16 (3d10)

>>4774464

>>4774464
Still need one more.

Rolled 4, 3, 3 = 10 (3d10)

>>4774464

>>4774464
You decide to work your way over to Nora, one of the other members of your growing cohort who always seemed to have some trouble with people – in the sense that she’s possibly the most skittish warrior you’ve ever encountered. Along the way you make it a point to play the gracious host, another role that you can slip on like a comfy pair of shoes when the times require it. This one is a role your father taught you long before the Organization honed your abilities as a good host, as they should have taken the time to do for all the warriors who came up after you.

But evidently not so with many of the more recent classes. It seems that when corners had to be cut social training was one of the first things to fall by the wayside. They probably didn’t intend for girls like Nora to live long enough to make use of such training, so why train such a disposable tool like her in the first place?

The thought quietly turns your stomach even as you maintain the visage your subjects expect from you.

“Yes, of course. How was the harvest in Applecross this year?”

“I would suggest you take it up with Representative Arnum as soon as possible, get it on the agenda for the local council.”

“Not recently, yōma activity has been on the decline lately. Which is good of course, it gives us some leeway in how we patrol.”

“You seem well enough. It’s been ages, are you still married to that handsome young painter?

The small talk is honestly not that important, but being seen making small talk is very important. Your memory was better than the average human’s even before the surgeries and training sharpened your mind into a precision instrument, and now this kind of small talk almost feels like a misuse of resources. Like trimming loose threads with your sword.

You grab two small glasses of wine as you pass one of old Gaius’ staff men, who is carrying glasses to disperse among the guests.

“Nora…” you greet the younger warrior, whose curly head of hair nearly stands on end at the sound of your voice.

She literally jumps a little before realizing who it is that’s addressed her, nearly knocking one of the glasses out of your hand. It’s a quick scramble with your superhuman reflexes to get the wine to stay in the glass and to keep the glass off the floor. “Miss Noel, I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay, really,” you insist, “no harm done. Wine? Assuming you’re old enough?”

“I am,” she confirms, taking the glass gingerly. “If only just. Not like it matters for you or me.”

“Sometimes I wonder what feeling drunk is like,” you admit. “Then I figure it can’t be pleasant enough to make up for hangovers.”

“Maybe not,” she agrees, taking a sip. “Is this from Acerrae?”

You nod. “A good vintage at that.”
>1/2

>>4774716
“So first Ilse, then me,” she muses. “Is it that obvious?”

>May I ask why you’re so jumpy all the time? Not just now, you’re always a little like this.
>Is that a training scar across your lips? I know a lot of offensive-types have nicks like it.
>I hope you know that if you didn’t want to be here you didn’t have to come. I’d never force you.
>Other?

>>4774719
>>May I ask why you’re so jumpy all the time? Not just now, you’re always a little like this.

>>4774719
>I hope you know that if you didn’t want to be here you didn’t have to come. I’d never force you.

>>4774719
>Is that a training scar across your lips? I know a lot of offensive-types have nicks like it.

>>4774719
>May I ask why you’re so jumpy all the time? Not just now, you’re always a little like this.

>>4774719
>I hope you know that if you didn’t want to be here you didn’t have to come. I’d never force you.