"Sir?" Elle senses your attention on her. She was sitting next to her friend, making smal talk while enjoying her meal. It was rather reassuring to see them both having a relaxed conversation, it was the kind of normal situations you would like your friends to continue enjoying without the ever-present looming threat of world's corruption...

"I've realized that I don't actually know your friend's name."

"Oh!" Elle looks at you wide eyed, embarrassed.

"I, ah, thought about it but figured you probably didn't care..." The man said and stood up, taking a formal, respectful stance. "Please forgive my rudeness, sir Mouse. I'm Robert, presently in service of the church. It's an honor." Robert saluted to you, which you acknowledged with a nod and took this chance to size him up.

Robert was a slender fellow and his build and stature showed that long and frequent travels a courier was likely to undertake did left its mark, but despite this his frame and features were delicate to the point where Elle with her athletic build looked ever so slightly more robust in comparison.

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Robert." You tell him. "And I appreciate this," You make a sweeping gesture. "although as I've said, it wasn't necessary and you needn't feel indebted."

"Sir, I beg to differ." Robert shook his head. "It's really the least I could do to show my gratitude and I'm thankful to Elle for making it possible. The thing is, sir Mouse, I'm not only myself I'm grateful for. Your intervention also saved my sister."

"Sister?" You raise eyebrow at Elle. "You mentioned something about that, have you not?"

The woman nods. "It turns out she was kidnapped and Robert was looking for her."

"Kidnapped? By that mage's men?" You frown. "But he was only targeting"

Robert looked to the side. "Elle had told me what you and the guards found. It seems the mercenaries have learned somewhere that there's some elven blood somewhere in our ancestry." Well, perhaps that explained the man's relatively delicate features. "Anyway, as I was saying, I'm much more grateful than if it were only me. I trust you understand...?" The courier looked at you with a hint of doubt.

"In fact I do." You shook your head. "The idea of caring for family and loved ones is not lost on me."

"Didn't I tell you, Robert?" Elle asked.

"I'm sorry, Elle. I'm trying. It's just not that easy to get over life long preconceptions."

"You're not wrong to have them." You shrug, thinking of your kin in the depths of black citadel. "But let's talk about something else." You shake your head. "So, you were looking for your sister in the first place?"

"That's right. Everyone seemed convinced that she had eloped from home, but I know that's not something she'd do without at least leaving a parting message. The city guard flat out refused to look for her or even consider it a case worth looking into." Robert talked, his voice steady as he relayed the tale. "I decided to investigate myself, and after talking to several people my suspicion fell on the slavers' guild. A caravan where a girl that looked like it might fit my sister's description was noticed was dispatched for Cathedral city and so I took up a request that took me here with the next dispatch." The scout takes a sip of wine. "Once I arrived, I realized I can't really count on the authorities here either siding with me over guild."

"Robert..." Elle says.

"I didn't know you'd be around, or have connections this good... and I didn't want to expose you to danger. This was a personal affair." Robert defends himself meekly and turns back to you to preempt Elle's protestations. "So I decided I needed to investigate further on my own and find some evidence of foul play I could bring to the clergy. I managed to track down the warehouse where guild's clandestine cargo got sent to..." Courier's confident voice wavered at that. "...you know the rest. I was captured and... was enjoying guild thugs' hospitality until, until..." He gulped. "Elle... and lady Celestine herself..."

Elle gave him a reassuring squeeze on his shoulder, and you a grateful smile.

"A bloody miracle. Please forgive me. Ahem." Robert composes himself and you give him some time to do so by sampling some of the desserts provided. Sweet and fruity. Different kind from what Alicia and Prim had ordered for you a few days back, but also a sensation that you don't remember since childhood and treats your own mother brought home on rare occasions. It takes some willpower to keep yourself from shedding a tear, and you feel something stir in the back of your mind... a warm, tender presence.

Well, now was not the time to deal with the goddess you've apparently formed a connection with. Turning your attention back to the present and the two couriers you offer a change of topic.

"Robert, during your investigation of your sister's disappearance, did you find out anything else of note regarding Guild traffic? Elle may have told you that we're on a mission that seems related to operation we've... both stumbled across and ended up thwarting."

"I told him that we're on a quest against evil, I was unsure if you wish to have specifics known." Elle said.

"That's prudent. Even though our cause is a good one, some of its premises could get one in trouble." You say.

"Well whatever it is, if I can help in any way, I will." Robert looked between the two of you. "Since you mentioned the guild, I'll of course share everything I remember. But... is that all? I can do more. I can..." There's slight hesitation. "I can investigate more for you. Here, or back home south."

"What? No, doesn't your sister needs your support after what she was through?" Elle asks alarmed. And you hers, you could almost hear what she didn't say out loud.

"Men of our Lady have taken her in, she has support of Lady's own handmaidens. She has better support than what I could dream of providing. I believe I could do more good elsewhere."

>Talk him out of it. He had gone through enough and his sister would surely appreciate someone familiar on top of whatever care Celestine's people are giving her.
>Invite him to join your growing party. Although it's becoming more of a warband at this point, there is something that can be said for benefit of numbers...
>Suggest that he approaches one of the princess knights, you can vouch for their character and perhaps one of them could use his help?
>Ask him to find something out for you (what?)
>other response

I may have developed an unhealthy habit of perusing stable diffusion

>>5769158
>Invite him to join your growing party. Although it's becoming more of a warband at this point, there is something that can be said for benefit of numbers...
I have a need to collect companions

>>5769158
>>Suggest that he approaches one of the princess knights, you can vouch for their character and perhaps one of them could use his help?

>>5769158
>Suggest that he approaches one of the princess knights, you can vouch for their character and perhaps one of them could use his help?

>>5769158
>Suggest that he approaches one of the princess knights, you can vouch for their character and perhaps one of them could use his help?
>
I understand, how fun is it ?

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>>5769463
Very. Sometimes it can get frustrating, especially when it comes to manipulating objects (such as holding weapons), and sometimes surprising and even a little spooky, such as this little bugger in pic related propping up completely unbidden while trying to get it to generate the goddess in the dark.

>>5769967
cute puppy

>>5769158
> Talk him out of it. He had gone through enough and his sister would surely appreciate someone familiar on top of whatever care Celestine's people are giving her.

As much as we have appreciate his help, we've already got Elle for our info-gathering roles, so there would be no urgent need to add someone with a similar ability into our group. Plus, even if his sis got the best medical and psychiatric help the world can provide, having a caring family member by her side is always better than not.

... and here I thought we can just chat a bit with everyone and call it a day... but, hey, a hero's job is never done, eh?

>>5769979
Starts to be less cute when it's the literal incarnation of evil and finds torturing your friends as its favorite pastime, though.

>>5769158

>>Suggest that he approaches one of the princess knights, you can vouch for their character and perhaps one of them could use his help?

>>5769158

changing my vote from >>5770242 to
>Suggest that he approaches one of the princess knights, you can vouch for their character and perhaps one of them could use his help?

Alicia have Elle switched out so she's in need of a courier either way, and we know Robert is trustworthy. Plus, given Alicia's realm is pretty close to Celestine's he could still probably visit his sis from time to time.

What does dogbuster mean?

>>5770960
you ever seen ghostbusters?

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Temptation to aquiesce to Robert's request is not entirely absent. Even if continuing to enlarge your party could begin making it a bit unwieldy, it would not be without merit to gain another supporter.

On the other hand, you could see Elle was worried for him, and probably not without cause. At the same time, you didn't want to shoot his eagerness to help down entirely.

Luckily, a compromise existed.

"I appreciate your offer, Robert, but I believe if you would share with us what you've learned during your investigations, that would be quite enough of a help."

There it is, he tried to hide it, but you're almost certain you felt some relief from him.

"Are you sure about that?" He asked nonetheless.

"Absolutely. Besides, if you are eager to help, perhaps you could offer to lend your support to the princess knights? They are committed to the same cause as we are, and I'm sure they could benefit from having a friend of proven integrity."

The scout blinked. "The Princess knights..."

"Indeed. Especially lady Alicia I'm sure could use someone she could trust after what had happened recently. And she's even a courier short I understand."

"But Elle is her..." Robert's gaze darted to his female colleague.

"I've requested her highness for release so I could join sir Mouse."

"...you have?" Robert asked, wide eyed. "...and she agreed?"

"I'm sorry, did I say something I shouldn't have?" You ask, realizing Elle may have not shared that bit of information.

"Don't worry about it." Elle waved it off. "And yes, and yes." She turned to Robert. "But Mouse is right, I'm sure her highness would love to have you. And you'd be able to see your sister. We may leave on parts unknown soon, you know."

"I suppose..." Robert said, thinking all that over.

"Just think about it. And once again, thank you for this occasion. And on that note, I should check on rest of the team and leave you time to think, If it's fine with you?"

"Oh... certainly, sir Mouse, that would be good. And... I'm thankful as well."

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With that you shift your focus to other parts of the table and leave Robert in care of his friend. First on your mind in this case is Chloe, you are almost surprised she didn't join conversation at some point when Robert was mentioning the slavers. Your worries are quickly dispelled as she seems to be engaged in conversation with Phineous and Smutkin, and in a manner of speaking also Sparky, possibly regarding to the selection of foodstuffs as the bard seems to be gesturing at the meals between them. You decide to leave them at it for now and look further.

The twin golems and Tithe stand to the side, emulating statuary. It occurs to you it's maybe a bit of a shame for them to be left out like this, but their expressions seem quite content.

Finally there's the other twins. Janet and Harriet, the two scouts you rescued from the mercenaries. They have sinced proved their mettle, most prominently in the dungeon raid. As far as you could tell, they have found a measure of comfort in following you on your quest, and the victory compounded by their participation in events of Celestine's sermon allowed them to build up confidence.

Even so, for now they seemed to satisfy themselves quietly and at their own pace eating the meals served to them while carrying a quiet conversation with each other.

Should you even involve yourself in that?

>Approach your monstrous companions and join them in their discussion
>Try and get the golems and the gargoyle join the table; although they may not benefit that much from food, you'd like to see them partaking in the company as well.
>The twin scouts may be worried about something, perhaps you should approach and reassure them.
>Take it easy and focus on enjoying yourself. If someone needs your input, they will ask for it, you hope you already brought that point across well enough at least with your original company
>other idea

apologies for lackluster update, I hope the already glacial tempo will not suffer too much with what's brewing in the plot

>>5773609
>>The twin scouts may be worried about something, perhaps you should approach and reassure them.

The Ghostbusters reply was hilarious, but please, I just want to know what a dogbuster is.

>>5773609
>Take it easy and focus on enjoying yourself. If someone needs your input, they will ask for it, you hope you already brought that point across well enough at least with your original company

>>5773613
It was actually quite accurate. Mouse's party is out to bust some metaphysical dogs.

>>5773613
I dunno anon, I thought it was pretty self-explanatory. Try reading the quest to figure it out.

>>5773609
>The twin scouts may be worried about something, perhaps you should approach and reassure them.
>>5773613
have you been reading all the threads so far ? if yes it's because the monster who represents evil in the world has a dog-like appearence

>>5773613
Just in case you have read the quest and somehow still hasn't understood it, I'm going to spoonfeed you.
The evil mercenary company that work for the villain are called the black dog company. The evil god is a black wolf. His cultists wear wolf masks. His demons look like werewolves. So when we kick their asses, we are busting dogs.

>>5773609
>Try and get the golems and the gargoyle join the table; although they may not benefit that much from food, you'd like to see them partaking in the company as well.

>>5773609
> The twin scouts may be worried about something, perhaps you should approach and reassure them.

Last time we talked to them was forever ago, and if there's SOMETHING they're worried about it's always better to address it now when we still have time and resources to spare, rather than when we're on the road straight to the heart of evil itself only to find out there's something serious wrong with our group. If they have esteem issues, we'd rather them to tell us now than them freezing in a fight; if they still need more combat training, it's better to plan our subsequent sparring sessions now than them getting hurt later on; and if they noticed something that we didn't, it's definitely better to have them bringing it up now instead of we get TPK'd from a minute detail we missed. Plus, we're the team leader here, and what sort of leader would we be if we don't even care for their team's emotional well-being?

>>5773609
>The twin scouts may be worried about something, perhaps you should approach and reassure them.

>>5773609
> The twin scouts may be worried about something, perhaps you should approach and reassure them.

You decide that yes, you should get yourself involved. If there was a risk that the twins were still seeing yourself apart in your team, it was your duty to make them feel comfortable enough with the crew. You did not doubt their integrity, but to bring full potential of your group, you needed to be able to count on each other without doubts or reservation.

With that in mind you shift over to join them. Their conversation immediately stops and they give you their full attention.

"Boss, sir?" Janet is first to speak.

"Relax." You say and raise your hand in a calming gesture, emphasizing that this is not a formal circumstance. "I was simply seeing you engaged with each other and thought if you were maybe concerned about something?"

The twins trade looks, reminding you slightly of the two golems. You wonder how much information two people that are close enough can pass by just glancing at each other?

"Not at all, sir." Harriet says.
"Well, not more so than should be expected given importance of our mission." Janet clarifies.
"In fact we were talking about it."

"The mission?" You want to tell them to take this brief chance to take it easy and enjoy the moment, but in fairness you too are treating this little event as part of the job right now...

"Yes, boss sir." Janet explains. "We were talking about the lay of the land of where you said our next objective is going to be."
"We haven't been deployed in the region so we only know what we learned during training." Harriet picks up. "We were putting together what we remember. Climate, prominent features, known routes."
"Yeah. We want to be ready to serve as pickets when time comes for us to travel there."

"That's a respectable display of initiative. Thank you both." You are somewhat touched. The twins have really taken your mission as their own. Perhaps your concern was unneeded.

"Thank you, sir. It's the least we can do."
"It's the best we're at, too."
"Hopefully good enough, this time."

Or maybe it was a little bit needed after all.

"Harriet, Janet." You address them both. "It is good to know one's limits and blind spots." You say, prompting their serious expression grow ever a little bit more solemn. "But if you can help it, don't let past failures become burdens on your spirits. Since you have joined me, you have not once given me cause for disappointment." Well, there was this one time when they went briefly AWOL, but you could not in good conscience be upset about them choosing to spend some time with their family after what they've been through. "I don't need you to make up for anything. I need you to do your best - and so far, that has proven to be impressively good. I and others with me will do the same." You extend your hand to them. "Do we have an understanding?"

They once again look at each other and there's very brief moment of hesitation as they guess what is it you expect of them, after which Janet is the one who reaches for your hand and tries to at least pretend to grasp your hand with his. Fraction of a moment after his sister follows suit.

"Sir!"
"Boss!" They say as one. "You can count on us."

"I know." You smile at them and let the moment pass before withdrawing your hand. "Alright, so what did you remember about the terrain?" You ask.

You spend some time with the twin scouts talking about the landscape you've seen in your dreams and later on the maps. You speak of the forests, of the mountains, of the hills and the valleys, and of the traffic that is known to pass through the area.

Especially that latter is something you have least knowledge of, to the point where you wonder if floating speculations off each other is not just detrimental waste of time. Luckily, Robert and Elle join in around that time, followed by your first companions (except for Sparky that spent last few moments sampling from various sweets and was now resting bundled up on a soft sofa in the corner of the room) and so huddled around one part of the long table you listen to Robert's recount of what he learned of Guild shipping while searching for his sister. Phineous and Smutkin both take notes for future reference.

Once Robert finishes sharing what he knows, you're left with quite a chunk of information to ruminate on and an awkward silence.

"Thank you all." You breach it. "We've come here to have some time off and yet we ended up working again. Nevertheless I trust this will end up being to our benefit." You look around at the diverse array of expectant faces, not forgetting the animated rock ones standing watch a few steps back. "But for now, I believe we all have for sure earned at least this moment of leisure."

You think to come up with some team building or otherwise relaxing activity, and Smutkin would likely be able to provide suggestions, but it occurs to you that you were invited to Celestine's council. You look out through the window to check the time of day and your concern is confirmed. It was about time for you to leave. The question that remained was whether you would take someone with you or send some of the others off on a task or another.

>Take someone with you to the council? The golems will escort you, but stand guard outside. Invitation didn't specify, but you could likely get away with a companion, maybe two if justification was good enough.

>Optional: issue tasks for your companions; by default they'll have rest of the day off.

>>5777712
>Bring Chloe, of course.
couldn't get her to stay put if we wanted anyways
>the rest take the day off

>>5777712
>>5777722
+1

>>5777722
Support

>>5777722
This.

>>5777722
>+1

>>5777712
>>5777722
+1, and bring Sparky as well if possible. At least if we brought Chloe in officially then nobody can accuse her of snooping around where she shouldn't be, and Sparky is a fellow light-touched.

Everyone else would take a much-needed rest.

"Alright, it looks like it's time for me to leave." You announce. "I'll be heading to attend the meeting lady Celestine invited me to. Chloe, you're with me." You single out the half elf that would likely have followed you in the shadows regardless. She looks at you and acknowledges your request with a nod. If she's disappointed that your request implied she would be joining you openly, she doesn't let it show. "The rest of you I'd like to have rest of the day off. Enjoy the moment. Enjoy our recent victory. Make pleasant memories, so that the world we strive for shines that much brighter in our hearts. We never know when next chance to take it easy will present itself."

It would not take long for you to be reminded how true those words are. For the moment it seems to put a slight damper on the mood as you deliver the solemn reminder of the task looming over you, but it quickly shifts into resolve to, as you suggest, make the most of the moment. There's a round of mostly voiceless acknowledgment in the room which you return with a nod of your own and head out, the nimble dark elf and a duo of guardian golems at your heels.

You briefly stop by the restaurant proprietor to express your acknowledgment of his services and accept his assurances that you're welcome to come back any time, though hopefully not before he's had chance to restock and preferably cash in on the expected popularity boost.

"Excuse me, sir...?"

You were about to leave when one of the patrons addresses you. It's a well dressed man, perhaps a merchant or an artisan, in any case not someone you've seen before.

"I'm sorry, but I'm in kind of a hurry right now."

"I beg your pardon, sir, it won't take long. It's just that we..." He waves to gesture other patrons that were looking at you. "...we learned that you're the hero who saved our Lady from the treacherous attack during her sermon. We just wanted to show our appreciation."

You stood there and watched with mild bewilderment as the other patrons stood up.

"Long live the hero! Long live the redeemed monster! Glory to our Lady!" They proclaimed in a somewhat disorganized manner, several men and women and even a child or two. They were looking at you with no fear, but rather admiration.

It was not a bad feeling.

And then everyone clapped.

The situation felt so bizarre that for a moment you were unsure how to respond. Even so, you had places to be.

"I, ah, am grateful for your recognition." You say as you collect yourself somewhat. "I'd take it as a personal favour if you kept in your hearts what the Lady said during that sermon." You add in effort to direct this outburst towards something actually useful, and your words are received with a cheer. Not wanting to extend this any further you give the patrons a bow and make for the exit.

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"Huh." Chloe vocalized as soon as you left the eatery.

"Indeed." You nod. Perhaps you should have expected something like that? A lot of people saw what happened, it was to be expected the word would get out.

For a while you walked in silence before your half elven companion spoke up again. "What do you think this council is going to be about? Humans finally recognizing the mercenaries as their enemy?"

"That seems likely. With Celestine challenged this brazenly in the open, there could be no doubt that the Black Dog company has ambitions to topple their order."

"But why ask for you specifically, then? Isn't it something they would rather deal with without self admitted agents of her majesty?"

"That is something we're going to find out. Perhaps they take us seriously enough to ask for our input?" You muse, although as soon as the words leave your mouth you begin to doubt it. Even if the princesses you've befriended were willing to talk with you, it didn't seem likely whatever political body Celestine was meeting could be expected to care for whatever a monster would tell them.

Then again, Celestine would not have you invited without a reason. She knows you do have things to do.

You pick up the pace; rest of the trip passes in silence. Before long you make it to the cathedral compound where one of the clerks directs you to where the council is meant to be taking place.

Eventually you find yourself walking down a relatively wide, well kept corridor decorated with paintings, tapestries and statues. If your sense of orientation serves you, you're not too far away from office where you had met councilor Rowan all those days ago, and are briefly reminded of the man's current circumstances. If it turns out it was Beast's corruption that drove him to his ill conceived assassination attempt, what implications would his repentance have for his ultimate fate?

For now though these thoughts are set aside as among the people mulling around before they walk through wide richly decorated door into a hall were some you recognized, and they recognized you in turn.

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"Sir Mouse! I'm glad you made it." Klaus approaches you, his wife at his side smiling warmly. "Lady Chloe. Guardians." They greeted your entourage.

"Well of course. It sounded important." You shrug. "Can you tell me what this council is actually about?"

"I don't know the specifics yet either," Klaus said. " but I understand Lady Celestine had called for a council to convene, with all of the political factions and players represented, in order to decide on response to the attempted coup."

"Mr. Mouse, did something happen? Something feels... different about you." Claudia says, prompting both you and Klaus to give her a surprised look. You assume that it's in both cases for the same reason but Klaus quickly dispels that notion.

"You can feel it too?" The scholarly prince asks. "I was thinking it's just excitement of the work we've done but I too get this distinct feeling..."

"What do you mean?" You ask. "Chloe?" You turn to your half elven companion.

"I have no idea what they're talking about..." The queen's shadow hesitates.

"It's the mark of the goddess." Minerva explains.
"She is truly with us now." Diana nods.

Could it be? Was the connection you made with the goddess during your last venture something that was this visible to others? On one hand, your quest lends itself well to such a connection, probably... on the other hand, could such a phenomenon also spell trouble?

You focus briefly on introspection, and despite feeling a bit guilty at drawing this comparison, try to recall sensations from when the presence infesting the dark relic made attempts to subvert you...

...and find no similarities whatsoever. That is not to say you don't feel anything at all. There is a vague sense of warmth, and you feel like you could banish it if you so desired. But for now, not wishing to risk it, you decide to not prod it further.

Hopefully you'd be able to glean something more during next chance to sleep or meditate.

"Mouse?" Klaus asks with a worried tone. "You looked like you spaced out for a moment."

"Ah. I apologise, I was only contemplating how to comment on that... it's a longer story, you see."

"...does it have to do with what you were asking me about earlier? Meditation and transcendence?" The white haired prince made the connection.

"It does."

"Oh my. I can't wait to hear it. But I guess it'll have to wait. Let's go, it seems the meeting is about to begin."

And in truth the corridor around you has emptied itself out as most of the groups talking in it have broken up, with the notables walking into the hall while their advisors and messengers disappeared in either direction, some of them settling in on the benches in anticipation of the meeting's conclusion.

You joined Klaus and Claudia as they moved to enter the meeting hall, Chloe at your heels, while the twin golems automatically headed to flank the doors to keep watch from the outside.

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The council room turns out to be a rather large hall that was mostly defined by the rows of benches arranged around a central table. You had little chance to pay much attention to furnishings, though, as two factors took up more of your attention.

One was your attempt to scan the attendees for familiar faces. And in fact you were successful in that, being able to easily single out Alicia and Kaguya; then there was a man clad in decorated armor that you recognized as knight-marshal Belu and, next to him, that came as a bit of a surprise, the siblings you've interacted with recently: Lucian and Stephanos, the guild official and his military brother. There was also two of the priests you saw accompany Celestine before, and obviously Celestine herself was presiding over the meeting.

She was dressed differently. On top of her white ribbon dress she wore some element of armor. Like she was dressed for war.

There was one more face that was vaguely familiar to you, and the other distracting factor was that this face was the first to vocally respond to your entrance:

"What? This is an outrage! Blasphemy! Who let an ogre into the council hall?"

It was an elderly face warped in grimace of indignance, and you know you hadn't met its bearer in person yet, at least not on physical plane. This was without the doubt the Chancellor. Actually, you're not quite sure how you recognized him as you don't remember seeing his features at all.

"I have." Celestine's response comes across as firmer than what you're used to her voice usually sounding. Still, you can't deny it feels good to hear her speak out in your defense, and the official doesn't offer a retort or protest aside from a subdued "harrumph" as he withdraws among his peers.

Celestine meanwhile looked directly at you, and in her eyes you felt something you don't remember having been there before. It felt like... longing. And you could tell it was not directed at you... or at least not for the most part. And from the warmth in the back of your mind, you could feel the sensation of the sentiment being reciprocated.

"Mouse... thank you for heeding the summons." The elven lady spoke softly. Then, louder: "Thank you all for assembling at my request. I believe you're all familiar with your slice of view of the state our Alliance finds itself in."

Any remaining murmur died down quickly as soon as she began speaking.

"As such we can jump straight to the heart of the matter. Let us begin with stating the obvious. The Black Dog mercenary company orchestrated and attempted to carry out a coup." Celestine made a pause; nobody spoke to contest her. "The day has been saved, thanks in no small measure to our guest." She gestured at you. Now there was some murmur in the background, but it died down quickly before Celestine resumed talking. "As you know, I take no pleasure in martial matters, but the situation is too dire to be ignored. I have called this council to determine measures that need to be taken to ensure safety of our citizens from this threat."

So that's what it was about. You were not yet sure what you can offer except for your insight on the cultists, if the gathered would even care to hear it, but perhaps Celestine had a plan. She must have had a reason to call you here. Perhaps it was your chance to make an appeal or a suggestion?

>You could reiterate that the actual enemy behind the mercenaries is a force you set out to purge
>Or you could try to support Celestine's authority by speaking out for in her support?
>Or perhaps you could-

Your musings on choosing an approach in this unfamiliar field of battle are cut short by a familiar chill drilling into your side, made sharper by its unexpected appearance. It originated from the pouch where you carried your queen's boon, the necklace that allowed you to communicate.

But you did not initiate the connection this time.

You looked down at the pouch with sense of dread and urgency mounting. This was irregular, and wrong. What was happening? Was it the Queen contacting you? What possible circumstances could cause her to do that?

Perhaps sensing your alarm, Chloe standing next to you looks up at you with a worried frown.

>Join the connection right here and now. Time may be of the essence here.
>Excuse yourself and rush out of the hall to form the connection somewhere with less eyes on you.
>other response

kudos and respect to whoever is uploading those LoRAs on civitai

>>5780324
>Join the connection right here and now. Time may be of the essence here.

>>5780324
>>Join the connection right here and now. Time may be of the essence here.

>>5780324
>Join the connection right here and now. Time may be of the essence here.

We're on Queen Olga's payroll first and foremost, and if something dire happened in the Citadel (like an attempted coup) then it'd be a good time to start talking about a truce between the two queens and unify our forces against the common enemy.

>>5780317
look at part of her areola showing, them again that's expected of this series, even if we've avoided the H for a while. was it the ai doing or you asked for barely clothed booba ?
>>5780324
>Excuse yourself and rush out of the hall to form the connection somewhere with less eyes on you.
even though I'm the minority here. Seems like some people will want us dead after this.

>>5780486
We have been clear to anyone that actually matters that we working for the queen. Anyone that would want us dead after this, already wanted it before.

>>5780324
>Or perhaps you could-
Let’s say nothing for now. The force behind the mercenaries is our main enemy, but as Celestine said this meeting is about the Black Dogs.

>Join the connection right here and now. Time may be of the essence here.
I have a feeling this is about the Black Dogs as well.

>>5780501
The forces behind the mercs - aka the Wolf - is intangible, but the Black Dogs and other assorted Wolf-aligned traitor forces are a tangible threat to everyone, and can actually be destroyed through military effort.

In the OTL both Olga and Celestine were brought down by military coups led by the Black Dogs, so I highly doubt the merc's attempted coup in the Cathedral is an isolated incident. Plus, last time we contacted Olga she transferred Chloe from her direct command to ours and pretty much said our mission is more important than her life - and both orders bodes ill for the situation in the Citadel: she is still (nominally) at war with Celestine, so the only reason for her to put our success at ending the Wolf's threat (and keeping Celestine safe) above her own life would be if she knew her reign's no longer stable.

>>5780575
>In the OTL both Olga and Celestine were brought down by military coups led by the Black Dogs
I knew this happened with celestine, but since I haven't watched much of the original H, I didn't know how it happened to Olga. Can you give more details as how it went in the h ?

>>5780650
Perhaps "military coup" isn't the most accurate term here, but what the Black Dog did have are legions of monsters that IIRC were once under Olga's command but defected to join Volt's cause. So technically it's an invasion, but the line between "invasion" and "foreign-backed military coup" starts to blur a bit when half of the invading army were once your own.
Of course I might have read the context of the animated series completely wrong, but back in Thread6 Olga did mention there's something wrong with her army's discipline so even if it's not in the OTL the Wolf is definitely subverting her rule in this timeline.

>>5780324
>Or you could try to support Celestine's authority by speaking out for in her support?

>Join the connection right here and now. Time may be of the essence here.
my name is why i vote

>>5780324
>Or perhaps you could-

Let's say nothing for now, although insights and information gained from the video call would probably help with any later points we make.

>>5781412
>>5781418
Anons, I'm pretty sure we don't vote on the first prompt, the "could-" means we were interrupted.

>>5780501
Meant to reply to you too

>>5781421
>>5781423
True. The answer we would have given may be useful to the QM, at least.

There was really only one thing you could do in these circumstances. You reached into the pouch and retrieved the necklace, now smoking and glowing with eerie light of its enchantment activating.

"Treachery!" Someone shouted, probably not the chancerllor this time, but you did not care. Chloe dropped into combat stance, drawing her daggers and looking around warily for any threat while guards in the room drew their own steel.

"Hold!" Celestine's voice rang out and she looked at you with concern while tension mounted all around.

"Parley!" You called out first word that comes to mind as you realized you're impromptu bringing an additional dignitary into the meeting.

"Granted." Celestine doesn't hesitate. "Worry not, my faithful, you are safe and I am with you." The gold haired elf spreads her hands dramatically and lets her power flow, creating a backdrop of golden glow for the dark wisps coalescing from the enchanted trinket in your hand.

The display of their leader's apparent calm and confidence seems to convince most of the assembly to ease off for the moment, although the guards and some of the martial officials still look on warily with hands on their weapons or weapons in hands. Regardless, you're thankful for this intervention as you and most of the others hold their breaths and a figure that's dearly familiar to you coalesces in heart of the magical cloud.

"..."

Queen Olga is not sitting on the throne, as she usually does. Instead she is standing, her staff in hand and crackling with subdued power. You are not sufficiently knowledgeable of the weapon to be able to infer what that means, but the circumstances continue to vindicate your choice to not tarry with allowing the connection to form.

The image of dark elf queen looks around the speechless room, pauses briefly locking eyes with you, then quickly looks in some specific direction that doesn't seem to hold any significance in your current context...

...and then something you would never have expected to see happens.

Olga turns to face where Celestine is standing, takes the knee and, looking at the ground, speaks:

"Lady Celestine, goddess reborn, I, Olga Discordia, beg thee for sanctuary."

Silence that you thought was there moments ago is now absolute, and heartbeats begin to sound as thundering artillery, subdued breaths as roaring hurricane. Chloe at your side is gaping with open mouth.

You are unsure how much time passed, and as much as you could tell Celestine did her best to maintain façade of unperturbability, it was clear this was not something she expected.

"Granted." Celestine says again, this time more slowly, her regal bearing strained.

"My lady, is that wise..." Someone tries to ask but is summarily disregarded as Celestine takes a step towards the dark queen's image.

"Thank you..." Olga says and you can see her grip on her staff tighten and the glow of the staff intensify, sparks running up and down its length at accelerating pace, and finally the flow of power began to engulf the dark queen herself. You feel a prickly sensation and realize that similar sparks run around the necklace still in your hand, likewise streaming towards image of the queen and area around her.

And then, suddenly, there was a flash of light that momentarily blinded everyone in the room.

And then... then it's over. As you struggle to take in the scene before you, you note that the chill of the necklace's effect is gone, along with the necklace itself. The smoke of the magic has dissipated, and the council hall was once again lit by crimson rays of setting sun from the high set windows. And on the floor amidst the stunned, still recovering assembly...

...was your queen.

You were at her side as she toppled, exhausted, from her kneeling position. You don't remember having moved, it must have been purely instinctual on your part. Regardless, you found yourself holding the dark elven queen in your arms, helpless and vulnerable, with rest of the humans looking, some of them leering triumphantly, but that was not important right now. Celestine was standing above, reaching down with her healing magic. Chloe was kneeling nearby, her face showing mixture of concern and terror.

Olga locks gazes with you for a moment, looking the part of an exhausted woman.

"Mouse, what have you done?" She manages to whisper before her eyes close.

"...majesty..." You manage to say. There was no accusation or reproach in her tone that you could tell. Just genuine desire to know. But still...

"She's fine, merely exhausted." Celestine assures you.

"We won? The dark queen is beaten?" Someone says from above. You don't waste any time reaching out to catch Chloe before she jumps to do something unwise, earning a baleful glare from her you just shake your head at her gently.

"She asked for sanctuary and she shall be given one." Celestine stands up and asserts. "Remember, she approached us and made the request, granted to her by the grace of progenitor goddess." The elf speaks with tone that leaves no room for debate. "Her appearance certainly gives rise to questions, asking of which will have to wait until our guest recovers. Let us take a brief recess while we see her taken to appropriate accomodation."

The respectful silence Celestine has commanded breaks down into murmur and some isolated sneers but your and Celestine's attention is on the unconscious dark elf in your hands to care much.

"Do not worry, Mouse, lady Chloe, I'll make sure that your queen is treated well." Celestine tells you. "Let's bring her out of here fow now to somewhere more comfortable."

You get up and gently carry your queen out of the hall, guards open the door before you as Celestine walks ahead of you, Chloe at your side, the half elven champion seemingly gotten over her initial shock was now scanning her surroundings with a focused glare as if daring someone or something to try and take advantage of her queen's weakened state.

You don't travel far. There turns out to be a luxuriously furnished lounge near the council room, presently occupied by a man in noble clothing and a servant girl that make themselves scarce without needing to be asked to. You carefully place Olga onto a wide, soft couch while Celestine turns to one of the knights that accompanied her as guards.

"Sir Frederick, have the handmaidens prepare royal accommodations for our guest and bring her there when it's ready."

The knight looks like he considers protesting, but salutes and heads out, leaving you, Chloe and Celestine alone with Olga. The golems have taken position outside the room.

Chloe approaches her queen and after some hesitation touches her hand, her expression one of concern and worry.

Celestine turns to you.

"Mouse... I should not make the notables in the council wait too much as we still have matters that need to be addressed, but I must ask... what happened? I can feel mother's touch on you, so... so intensely. It's almost like when I reach out to her... maybe more. But that shouldn't be possible. I was always told I'm the one carrying her soul."

>It's a longer story, you should return to the council and discuss this afterwards, perhaps in Olga's presence.
>Try to relay the tale as curtly as possible
>Perhaps... it would be easiest to just show her?
>other idea

>>5781818
>Try to relay the tale as curtly as possible
Her foresight has proven to be kinda dangerous so give her the short story

>>5781818
>Try to relay the tale as curtly as possible
>"The nameless can be beaten!"

>>5781818
>Try to relay the tale as curtly as possible
"Tried meditating with Sparky; found the Goddess tortured by the Nameless; grabbed the Goddess and ran."

>>5781818
>Try to relay the tale as curtly as possible
Just covering the important parts shouldn’t take too long, the details can be covered at a later date.

>>5781818
>Try to relay the tale as curtly as possible

File: pixai-1665967302139457274.png (2.31 MB, 1536x1024)

2.31 MB PNG

"I attempted meditation again, with aid of Sparky, the imp." You decide to try to give Celestine the abridged version. "It was successful. On my foray I reached out to the woman I've seen earlier." Celestine's ears perk up when she hears that, but you hurry to continue: "I found her being tormented by the Beast and... succeeded in grabbing her from its claws."

"What? Mouse!" Celestine's eyes go wide and she reaches out to you.

Understanding her intention you actually grab her by the wrist, unsure whether that would actually stop her. "Wait." You blurt out. "Don't. Your power may be compromised, remember?"

She relaxes her arm and her expression wilts. "Hnnng." She lets out a frustrated noise. "You're... you're right. If what you say is true... no, of course it is, why would you lie to me..." She looks aside and balls her fists. Then lets them loose again with a sigh. "I'm sorry. I'm so eager to..." She shakes her head. "Nevermind that. I suppose... I suppose that explains some things. When did it happen?"

"Somewhere between morning and noon, closer to the noon." You give an estimate.

"Yes... that seems about right. There was a time when I began to feel my own connection to the Progenitor invigorated. At that time, I thought it was just feeling of hope and resolve as I was talking with father Willows about the upcoming council." Celestine locks her vibrant green eyes with yours "Whatever it is you experienced had caused ripples across the world..."

There's a groan at your side as queen Olga stirs in her slumber, but doesn't yet wake. Chloe adjusts cushions on the couch to make her more comfortable.

"...I suppose lady Olga's appearance must be linked to this as well. What could possibly move the dark Queen to take such drastic measures?" Celestine says.

You think you are beginning to see an image.

"The Beast." You growl. "I must have wounded, or at least humiliated it."

"We're going to need to adjust our plans to deal with whatever is happening." Celestine frowns. "But for now the good news is that you showed that the Beast is not invulnerable. It can be hit where it hurts." She straightens up, her resolve reignited. "I'm going to have to go back to the council and discuss at least some provisional matters. Do you wish to come with me, or would you rather stay with lady Olga? The councilors could maybe benefit from your testimony, or you from being able to request or tell them something in a public setting."

>Return to the council
>Stay with the queen
>other plan

short update this time, one of the options could have gotten... interesting. It's probably better this way though.

>>5780486
well honestly the prompt called for "huge breasts" and those sometimes tend to spill out. Claudia is a big girl.

>>5782204
>Return to the council
Turn to Chloe and talk to her
>"Chloe, I trust that you will take good care of the Queen. I need to make sure that the councilors know what we are dealing with here before any of them get tempted by the Beast into switching sides."

>>5782204
>Return to the council

Have Chloe look after the Queen, and we go with Sparky.

>>5782204
>Return to the council

>>5782204
>Stay with the queen


>one of the options could have gotten... interesting
Telling everyone what we did?

>>5782416
More like "if we asked to leave the conference room, Olga would teleport to the Cathedral without Celestine knowing and we'll have a lot more drama on our hands".

>>5782204
>Return to the council
>spoiler
you mean the show her option ? was an interesting one but alas we prefer the pratical way
>>5782204
>Claudia is a big girl.
fair, btw what are the bust sizes of everyone wev'e met ?

>Claudia is a big girl.
>>5782204
>>5782204
>>5782204
>>5782204

>>5782475
why did you link it 4 times ?

>>5782204
>>Return to the council
I don't want olga route so

>>5782204
>>5782551
>Return to the council

I'm an Olgafag, but we can always talk to her after she wakes up after we leave Chloe to take care of her. As per Her Majesty's own words, our mission is currently more important than her own life. Plus, as we prepare for our mission to Atlassia we can always invite her to come along.

>>5782525
Referencing the old Bane meme.

>>5782600
>4U
I see

"I'll come." You nod. You look down at the resting queen, she looks at peace now, her features gentle. Her staff that Chloe had grabbed as you brought the elven queen from the council chamber was propped against the wall nearby. And Chloe...

Your eyes meet, her red irises looking at you with expression both conflicted and pleading.

"Stay with her, Chloe. I'm sure she will appreciate seeing you when she awakens." You tell the devoted half elf.

"Thank you, Mouse." She relaxes, her decision whether she should accompany you or her beloved queen resolved in the way she had hoped.

You leave the room with Celestine, but before you proceed back to the council room you stop to address the golems.

"Diana, Minerva. I want you to guard the dark queen Olga from now on. Accompany her and protect her."

The two alabaster guardians exchange looks before asking. "Are you certain about that, leader?"

"Yes." You look at Celestine. "It's not that I don't trust the guards, but I don't really trust the guards." You remark bitterly. "That is to say, if there are still agents of the nameless around, her majesty will be an extremely appealing target. I want you to look out for her, and for each other."

"It will be as you say." Diana and Minerva answer as one.

With that matter settled you turn around and follow the high elven lady into the council chamber.

"-in disarray, there will never be a better time to strike than now!" A voice you don't recognize is fervently arguing.

"Strike at whom?" Another voice, this time vaguely familiar. "The mercenaries, reorganizing after their failed coup, or the monster horde that has just lost its leader?"

"Either! Both! Anything is better than giving either time to collect and attack while we have to contend with both!" The first speaker retorts. You pinpoint source of voice and show that it belongs to a young man in fine clothes with some elements resembling armor. Based on that you surmise it's likely a noble officer.

"Our own forces are far from consolidated and substantial portion of what we thought are our allies have turned into hostiles! Any maneuver will see us overextended and more vulnerable to retaliation, even just by unaccounted for stragglers!" Your attention is shifted to the other speaker and you identify that one as the knight marshal Belu.

"Brothers and sisters, please compose yourselves." Celestine's voice rings out. "I am pleased that you are treating our situation with due gravitas, however the knight-marshal is right in his warning. Any error in assumptions we make can have disastrous consequences." The elven idol pauses to let her words sink in before narrowing down her point. "It is too early to tell what brought the dark queen to seek sanctuary with us, but I'm sure we'll learn more soon from her own mouth."

"Please, pardon my insolence, my Lady, but can we expect her to tell us the truth, or indeed anything of use?" Chancellor asks. "After all, she is, or was until recently, our archenemy."

"That's imprecise." Celestine says. "Our true enemy are the forces of darkness. If you recall the teachings: no heart is beyond the goddess's reach; no shadow can be banished but for the darkness itself."

"My lady... are you saying the Queen wishes to... repent?" A young man in priestly garb asks wide eyed. Next to him a much older man looks skeptical but keeps his silence.

"No, perhaps that might come as well, but that was not my point. What I was saying is that she is not the source of evil we fight. That remains unchanged, and it moves both the monsters that bring ruin in her service, as well as the mercenaries that have thought to usurp our society with force of arms on the day that was meant for joy and contemplation."

"With all respect, my lady, but I can't stick my sword into impersonal darkness." Belu sighs, prompting some indignant murmurs at the disrespectful words.

"Thank you for your candor, knight-marshal, but I'm not asking you for that. As much as I wish it were that easy, your sword arm is still needed to shelter the innocents and the seekers of redemption from those who have chosen to reject it."

"I... understand. I beg your pardon, my lady."

Celestine acknowledged the awkward apology with a gentle smile. Then her expression hardens.

"However, you are mistaken in one important thing. The darkness we face is not impersonal." There's a murmur among the clergy part of the assembly at that. "It is very much a force with a will of its own, dark, cruel, vicious and corruptive." The unrest slightly intensifies, but dies down before anyone dares to gainsay the goddess's own reincarnation. "We like to imagine our enemies as monsters, that carry this darkness as their birthright. And that is not entirely wrong, these exist. But the driving force behind them, and our true enemy, is something that actually exists and revels in corrupting and abuse. And not always can you tell a monster just by looking at it... just as not everything that looks monstrous actually is."

The golden haired elf walks over to the table in the middle of the room.

"The reason why I have you all here together is this: to ensure that you all remember what I was saying before the treacherous cultist interrupted our gathering with violence." To emphasize her point, she called upon her power, giving herself an aura of subdued golden glow. "Each of us have, at one point or another, made a promise to ourselves and others, to renounce the darkness, the corruption, the cruelty and wickedness it brings. It is something we pride ourselves in. Something that we tell ourselves places us above the monsters that bring ruin, pain and misery to innocent. To ones we love. And yet..."

The light goes out. Celestine leans on the table, looking down. For a moment she looks not like a goddess incarnate, but a regular, tired woman.

"...none of us can deny we have our moments of weakness. Where we get carried away on impulse, or succumb to temptation. We all carry a monster with us. Is that not right? Is there anyone here that can tell me, looking me in the eye, that they have never seen or knew despair? In their own heart, or, what is actually worse - in eyes of another?"

There's a moment of silence during which Celestine straightens out, taking on her regal persona once again. Out of corner of your eye you notice the young priest that was asking about Olga's repentance moments later, listening to his Lady with open mouth, while the older priest at his side took on grim expression with eyes closed and downcast.

"The coup came as a shock to many, that is true. But the people carrying out, they were not orcs, ogres or demons. They were men, they were from among our midst. They made the choice to allow the darkness to guide them against those who renounced it. It is a bitter reminder that we are not outside of darkness's reach."

"My lady, are you... are you saying that anyone from us can be a traitor?" The younger priest asks.

"I'm not yet done." Celestine answers. "But in essence, everyone with a choice also has a choice to embrace the darkness. But that brings me to the other point I had hoped to bring across. Why did the coup attempt fail?" The elf asks quizzically. "My own guards and faithful knights deserve honours for carrying out their duty that day, of course. But most of us gathered here have seen it: the day was also saved due to choice of those you would not expect to do so... to renounce the darkness, and side with the mother's Light."

Celestine scans the gathered notables that have for the time being become the audience. And she pauses her sight not at you... but at the noble siblings, Lucian and Stephanos.

Others have noticed, too. Some surprise is to be felt from the gathering, as you suspect most have assumed the two are present simply because of their station.

"It warms my heart, sir Lucian, sir Stephanos, that at the end of the day you made your choice to stand with the Goddess and against the corruption." Celestine doesn't mince words, meanwhile the two nobles looked physically uncomfortable under the attention. Not surprisingly, Lucian was quicker to regain composure, or at least put up a façade of having done so.

"My Lady..."

"Sir Lucian, it is said that actions speak louder than words. And it is also said that absolution does not come cheaply. I know you are familiar with those words and many others besides. But most of all I hope and trust, that this day has allowed you to see their meaning in new light." The elven hierarch tells the noble, and at very least for this once, the man offers no further response aside from deferential silence, alongside his brother.

"My brothers and sisters." Celestine addresses the assembly again. "You have asked what should we do in face of the challenges ahead. We are yet going to get to more technical details, but before we do, I have a task for each and every one of us, including myself: before you look for the enemy outside the walls or at your side, make sure to face and contain the enemy you carry within. You are not going to destroy him, I can tell you that much, but you can keep him from compromising you and becoming a downfall for those around you. I want each of you to keep that in mind as you face those under your command and your responsibility in coming days. The forces of darkness run thick, and I do not shy away from my part of guiding us to where we are today, but only by mustering what light is within our reach are we going to be able to make it through."

A longer pause marks what appears to be conclusion of this short speech Celestine seemed to wish to deliver. None chose to disturb it, be it out of concern for how it would look, or because they took this chance for earnest introspection.

Eventually it was Celestine herself who broke the silence again.

"Now, while we are gathered here, let us address any pressing issues you may have brought in greater detail."

At this the discussion among the gathered nobles starts, but it takes a few moments for one to rise above the others to make their statement heard by all. You note that the discussion is kept among like minded groups, such as military men, merchants, nobles and the clergy. Distinctly silent and lost in thought remain Lucian and Stephanos, and your acquaintances - Klaus and the princesses - stay back for now. Ultimately the one that would take the floor is the Chancellor, an elderly man with decent posture for his apparent age and a stern look in his dark eyes.

"Since nobody seems in a hurry to bring forward their complaints, allow me to address the proverbial and literal ogre in the chamber." He says. "Goddess forbid I would question Lady's grace, and I've been educated on his apparent heroism. However, isn't it true that monsters such as this are by their very nature born of evil? How can we trust that whatever it does is not some elaborate deception?"

Well, that was quick. Was it a mistake to come back here? You hoped whatever came out of this would not undermine what points Celestine was trying to bring across.

For her part, Celestine was looking at you with a look of confident trust.

>Tell the chancellor that you were raised by human parents and you consider the malevolent darkness Celestine mentioned your enemy
>Tell the chancellor that you have chosen to renounce the Taint out of care for our companions
>Tell the chancellor that you earn your trust through actions
>Signal Celestine to handle this. Whatever you say would probably not convince the man.
>come up with something else

>>5783348
>>Tell the chancellor that you earn your trust through actions
>But if that isn't enough, go sun power ogre

>>5783348
>Tell the chancellor that you were raised by human parents and you consider the malevolent darkness Celestine mentioned your enemy
>"And I'm not the only one. Out my companions, I have Sparky, an imp that can cast holy spells, and Phineos, an orc that has deeply knowledge of arts. And neither of them were raised by humans."
>"So no, chancellor, monsters are not born evil. It's just that the overwhelmingly majority have decided to embrace the taint, just like some humans, like the mercenaries, the traitors, and the slavers have."

>>5783348
A combination of
>Tell the chancellor that you were raised by human parents and you consider the malevolent darkness Celestine mentioned your enemy
and
>Tell the chancellor that you have chosen to renounce the Taint out of care for our companions

We probably want to emphasize on the part that we reject both the monstrous half of our nature and the temptations offered by of the Nameless.
Tell them of our parents who told us "Never give up your light. Remember our love." when they're lynched by a pitchfork mob for the sole reason of harbouring our existence.
Tell them how the Artifact tried to tempt us at every step, but we rejected its lies on principle, and even purified it through sheer force of will.

Then we bring up our companions - on Phineos, although monstrous in form, appreciates art and culture, and especially Sparky, who casts holy spells and would rather heal than harm inspite of his impish (aka demonic) nature.
Then, if possible, call forth our own holy powers granted by the Goddess herself as the proof of our allegiance.

If they want a demonstration, we'll give them one.

>>5783348
>Tell the chancellor that you were raised by human parents and you consider the malevolent darkness Celestine mentioned your enemy

>>5783348
>Tell the chancellor that you were raised by human parents and you consider the malevolent darkness Celestine mentioned your enemy
>”Perhaps I misheard, but was it not said a moment ago that no heart is beyond the goddess's reach?”
>Tell the chancellor that you earn your trust through actions
>”If stepping in to take an attack that was meant for Lady Celestine is insufficient proof, then by all means, explain how I may assuage your concerns.”

>>5783348
>Tell the chancellor that you earn your trust through actions

>>5783348
> Tell the chancellor that you earn your trust through actions
... and that we will not let them down in our further actions either.

We have made it clear multiple times that the hatred humans felt towards the ogrekind was NOT unfounded and most other ogres are indeed bad people because they were raised that way. What differentiates us from them, however, is what we did, what we're doing, and what we will do next.

>>5783348
>>5783944
Addendum: explain the difference between "born IN evil and therefore incapable of UNDERSTANDING good because they were never exposed to it" and "born OF evil and therefore incapable of DOING good because being good is antithetical to their existence".
The monsterkind belongs to the former category, while the Nameless belongs to the second.

There was so much you could tell the chancellor that you would have difficulty picking out where to start. But that was not the main issue, that was the fact that whatever you said would be viewed through prism of his already distrustful stance.

Not that you blamed him for it.

"Chancellor, I will tell you the same that I've said before to people I now consider my friends. You are right to be suspicious, as a rule my kin is known to bring nothing but misery." You begin, noting that the chancellor nods slowly. "And although on that same basis most of us are also quite open about our cruelty, I suppose that is another reason to be cautious of whatever I say. Therefore, I rely on my actions proving purity of my intent. You can judge those by yourself, as you don't need to rely on my account, although I'll be of course happy to provide it should you desire."

"I have heard the stories. But those may be exaggerated or incomplete. If you yourself admit most of your kind are irredeemable monsters-"

"I did not say that." You interrupt him. Perhaps a little bit louder than you first intended. Your first instinct was to say you simply don't know. You did interact with other ogres, and could see no desire in them to renounce their urges.

But there were others, too.

Phineous, an orc that on his second raid attempted to stop his brethren from violating a captured woman and would have paid with his life for it if you hadn't intervened and her majesty gave you leave to keep him as first fighter under your command.

Sparky, a freak among imps, with his magical element strangely out of alignment.

Tithe, a gargoyle carved as what was probably a deliberate act of sacrilege and a joke.

Were they just products of chaos and chance? And even if they were, could they still be called such after first choice made of free will, or any subsequent ones?

"I do not presume to know metaphysics of our nature and redemption." You say instead. "I believe others have given more thought to such matters."

"That's correct, variety of theories and studies exist." Klaus chipped from the sidelines, a welcome supportive voice.

"Thank you." You told your noble friend and turned back to the old official. "I do not deny that majority of the monstrous kin act the way they do. All I can speak for is myself, and my close allies, and we have chosen to walk a different path. I take that as an evidence, and a source of hope, that even my kin can choose to renounce cruelty, and that we are not created of evil but rather drenched in it."

"In that case, what makes you so special?" The Chancellor presses on.

"I can only speculate on that point, in my case circumstance that set me apart was that I was for the most part raised by my human family which instilled in me their ideals which they were faithful to until their bitter end." You considered it was probably not the best idea to mention details about what that end looked like.

"Sir Mouse's parents perished at the hands of zealous followers in my name." Celestine apparently thought differently. "They were martyred saints by every measure."

If your words were followed with interest by those in the assembly that had only passing knowledge of you until now, Celestine's remark caused a shock of silence at the mental image.

"It was in no small part what brought me to talk of the darkness we carry within ourselves. It can sometimes manifest at truly unexpected moments and in unexpected ways." The elven idol added. Then she gestured at you. "But at the same time as it can show how insidious and treacherous forms wickedness can take, even using our own faith as a veil, Mouse's story also shows how powerful true goodness can be." Celestine turns to face the chancellor. "My good chancellor. Do not be mistaken, I can tell your concern is earnest. But in this particular case, it is misplaced. There is no deception here, Mouse only recently risked his own life in defense of mine."

To his credit, the chancellor did seem like he was thinking on what he had heard. Given what little you gleaned of the man from when he was referred to in his presence, you had little reason to suspect him of corruption, but rather of strictness and being set in his way and convictions.

"I suppose..." The man reluctantly said. "I suppose in the light of all these circumstances I must concede." The man then looks at you. "But I'll still be watching you, in case this turns out to have been some elaborate ploy after all this."

"Very good." You shrug, knowing that among all matters for you to contend with this official was unlikely to make a difference.

You were unsure whether your arguments convinced the man to at least made him consider changing his mind, but from what you could tell from the looks around it seemed at least sizeable portion of attendees were looking at you with less reservation than before.

"Thank you, Mouse, for addressing Chancellor's concerns." Celestine said to you, then turned to the assembled notables. "I believe we've addressed this matter adequately and can move on to other topics. I propose-"

Whatever it was Celestine wanted to discuss next had to be put aside however as the door into the hall open once again, interrupting her as all attention shifts at the new arrivals.

"The Beast," Queen Olga said as she entered the hall, staff in hand. "Is on the move."

Murmur that rose quickly in volume upon this appearance, as Olga, with Chloe at her side and two knights made their way into the hall, was shortly silenced by Celestine's raised hand.

"My lady, forgive the intrusion. Our... guest... was very insistent..." Sir Frederick stepped forward to explain.

"You did well, Sir Frederick." Celestine told him and turned to Olga. "Queen Olga, please, tell us more."

The dark elven queen gave a small nod and stepped forward, each step as deliberate and prideful as you remember. Perhaps that's also why what she says next comes as such a surprise to you, even though given circumstances you have already guessed.

"Not a queen anymore, it seems." She says. "I've been usurped."

The numerous barely hushed conversations break out again and again Celestine silences it with a gesture. "How is that possible?"

"As I said, the Beast is on the move. My soldiers were overcome with lust for violence that exceeded their sense and obedience. I have resorted to drastic measures, only to allow myself into your... hospitality."

Whispers continued in the background, but at volume that didn't necessitate an intervention.

"I am glad I was able to render it." Celestine says. "But what does that mean for your people?"

The dark queen smirks mirthlessly. "Violence." She says. "They drove me out, now they will decide who will lead them. And whoever that will turn out to be, he will next turn his attention to your lands."

"That sounds like good news for us. Conflict among the monsters should weaken them." One of the military officers commented.

"Perhaps that would have been a case if my erstwhile legions were of similar mind as human warlords." Olga says. "But although they may be currently in contest over who will lead, they are of one mind, and indeed possessed by one. And unlike me, that mind will have no concern of their own lives. You may think you have seen savagery of the monsters. What you are going to see shall prove how inadequate your imagination is."

"Are you trying to intimidate us, harlot?" Another official, asks.

This time it's Olga who reaches out gently to Chloe.

"Enough." Celestine says firmly. "I will have no such language on this meeting. The matter discussed is grave, and queen Olga remains our guest. You will maintain your dignity and her while addressing her." The fair haired elf looks straight at the noble who spoke.

"...I apologise, lady Celestine." He said, then, when the glare didn't ease, added: "...and lady Olga"

"Can you tell us more about disposition and numbers of your former forces?" Knight Marshal asked.

The dark elf seemed to hesitate for a bit, or perhaps just made a show of it, then nodded. "Certainly."

With that Olga raised her staff, and called forth her power...

The gesture caused some alarm among the gathered people, Celestine was quick to dispel it by again drawing on her power and providing comforting light as a counterpoint to Olga's ominous purple glow, and you found yourself momentarily wondering, how confrontation between the two would have gone.

Fortunately no such thing comes to pass. The dark queen simply uses her power to show an image of the region on the table, much like she did for you back when she first agreed to allow you to depart on this quest. Seeing what is happening, Knight Marshal Bellu steps forward to approach the image to see it more closely, after some hesitation a few others joined in, and Olga began to bring out more details.

What followed was the dark queen recounting to the human notables numbers and nature of her forces. Legions of orcs, ogres, gargoyles, corrupted beasts and other creatures that used to follow her command. Creatures, whose capacity for good would remain purely theoretical for now as they seemed to have been overcome with lust for violence and aggression... with a single minded force driving them.

Once again you found yourself wondering, would they be able to choose differently? Did the Beast have to work to convince them, or did they embrace its bidding eagerly? Could this happen to you? Could it happen to the humans around you?

"That's not good." Bellu said. "I had wondered what the forces were aligned against us, but I didn't imagine there to be this many."

"This force... if we could have relied on the mercenaries, even then we would be hard pressed to push through." A different commander added.

There was a brief moment of silence around the glowing map. Bellu was the one to break it.

"My lady, strategically speaking, in our current circumstances our best choice would be for you to withdraw to the capital to gather reinforcements while we attempt to stall the horde in Levantine stronghold while majority of our reserves fortifies this pass leading towards dwarven Mountainhomes."

"What? Are you insane? That means giving up entirety of the region!" An elderly merchant raises his voice.

"The pass is the only location where I estimate we'd be able to hold with the numbers we have, and even that's assuming I could bleed them sufficiently during the siege." The knight-marshal says.

"I'm not about to let you martyr yourself in my holdings, knight-marshal, nevermind sacrifice everyone between here and there." Claudia speaks softly.

"I'm only working with what experience tells me, my lady. I don't mean to sell men under your and old lord's care short by any means."

"It is too early to abandon hope, sir Bellu." Celestine says.

"I'm not. Only illusions. Please, take a look. Arcturus keep is strong by itself, but exposed. Its fall is essentially a foregone conclusion, I'm sorry milady."

"Just go on with your assessment." Alicia says bitterly.

"...ahem. Well, with Arcturus keep out of the way, the enemy can move directly at Cathedral city, which is even less defensible with all these plains around. The only saving grace here is the Levantine keep that will prove considerably tougher nut to crack and they will need to take it out to avoid getting pincered in case of simply bypassing it. Unless we can rule that out...?" The knight looks pleadingly at Olga.

"I cannot make any promises on strategic or tactical acumen the horde shall display. Only their determination in pursuit of their objectives."

"Which will be?"

"Complete domination and violent suppression of any opposition."

"Right. Well, you heard me." The officer looks at Celestine. "My lady, I recommend you begin packing."

"No."

"No?"

"Sir Bellu, what makes you think the South is a refuge for us?" Celestine asks.

"But... the capital... the lords... the guilds...?" He blinks.

"The Beast, the force that took over Olga's horde is the same force that drove the mercenaries to coup. And the mercenaries are backed by the guild down south."

"You don't mean... but then..."

"But the situation is not as hopeless as that sounds." Celestine says. "I believe that our enemy is moving not because it thinks we are weaker than before... I think it's moving now, because..." The elven lady looks at you, smiling gently. "...it is afraid."

If your heart soared at that, Olga was quick to put a hamper on it.

"I don't recommend placing your hopes on that alone. Whatever it is you had accomplished had whipped the Nameless into fury. And although it may also be a mask for weakness, and make it commit errors to be exploited, it will make for no less savage and dangerous enemy."

"I don't intend to underestimate it. But we must find a way to defeat it, and I believe it now more than ever before that it can be defeated. Sir Bellu, I believe you haven't yet been informed that we have a lead on hideout of Vult's forces. Mouse?"

"Certainly. We believe the mercenaries, which are also a cult of the Nameless, operate from a place called Atlassia which is located around... here."

You indicate the incriminated location on the map. Bellu studies the location carefully.

"That's valuable information... how did you get by it?"

"Research of variety of leads from cultist operations, including arcane triangulation." You say. It sounded better than "It was revealed to me in a dream."

"I see... how certain are you about it?"

"Certain enough I intended to carry out reconnaisance there to confirm it."

The officer spent a few moments pondering the location.

"It's relatively speaking distant enough that under favourable circumstances we could be allowed to fight and even defeat our enemies in detail. If we could with confidence neutralize one force or the other, or at least delay it." He ran his fingers through the illusionary map. "But these are not favourable circumstances. We don't have forces to reliably beat either even if we expend all our reserves; if we focus on the mercenaries, the monsters will overrun the region unopposed. If we focus on the monsters, the mercenaries will consolidate and strike at our rear. And if we wait, we will be crushed between them."

The situation looked grim. But perhaps there was something you could do? You may have only been only one ogre with his squad and some friends. But perhaps that was enough to make a difference?

>You will take your squad and push into Atlassia, if it really is the heart of it all then that's where you need to strike to put an end to it.
>You will take your squad and take it to confront the monsters. Not in an open battle, but perhaps there is something you can do to break Beast's hold over them and reinstate Olga as their queen?
>You need more information; ask someone about something?
>other idea

>>5788207
>>You will take your squad and take it to confront the monsters. Not in an open battle, but perhaps there is something you can do to break Beast's hold over them and reinstate Olga as their queen?

>>5788207
>You will take your squad and push into Atlassia, if it really is the heart of it all then that's where you need to strike to put an end to it.
>other idea
>Remember to send news to the dwarves, they were studying the nature of the taint, and our breakthrough may help them develop something that could help faster.

>>5788207
>You will take your squad and push into Atlassia, if it really is the heart of it all then that's where you need to strike to put an end to it.

>>5788207
also supporting
>Remember to send news to the dwarves, they were studying the nature of the taint, and our breakthrough may help them develop something that could help faster.

>>5788207
>You will take your squad and push into Atlassia, if it really is the heart of it all then that's where you need to strike to put an end to it.

>>5788207
>You will take your squad and take it to confront the monsters. Not in an open battle, but perhaps there is something you can do to break Beast's hold over them and reinstate Olga as their queen?

>>5788207
> You will take your squad and push into Atlassia, if it really is the heart of it all then that's where you need to strike to put an end to it.
> Remember to send news to the dwarves, they were studying the nature of the taint, and our breakthrough may help them develop something that could help faster.

It's simply impossible to impose any sort or order and leadership to the monstrous horde unless we remove the malignant influence of the Nameless. And we need all possible forces to unite together against this common foe.

>>5788207
>You will take your squad and push into Atlassia, if it really is the heart of it all then that's where you need to strike to put an end to it.

Idea of trying to find a way to help reinstate your queen into her rightful place as master of the monstrous legion is appealing, doubly so considering the imminent threat Beast's influence was bringing about for all the innocents. You saw what your kin did to people when lucid, but if they were truly overcome with lust for battle, and presumably also other things...? It was not a pleasant thought.

Was there anyone who resisted that call that you didn't personally know?

But no. Even if you took your men and headed north towards... your home...

...you're not sure what would you be able to accomplish. Certainly not much through force of arms alone.

On the other hand, there was another option. To strike directly at the heart. If you could decapitate the cult of the Beast, you would scatter its mercenaries and quite possibly also free the monsters from its hold.

Perhaps it was a bit arrogant of you still. But at the same time you got the feeling you were reaching limits of what you could gain from going through old knowledge, forbidden or otherwise. Whatever would take you forward was an undiscovered country. Perhaps all that you needed to do next was to take that daring first step, and get to trailblazing.

"I will take my team and push into Atlassia." You announce.

There's a stunned silence around the table as everyone looks at you.

"That's suicide." Bellu is first to speak. "The mercenaries may be reeling from their coup failing, but bulk of their reserve forces remains intact and will be prepared to deal with any unsupported raids. A recon mission might make sense, but it would hardly help us resolve our current conundrum."

You shake your head. "I understand your concern, knight marshal, but I intend to do more than just reconnoiter, nor do I intend to get myself or my men killed."

"Does that mean you have a plan?" The officer asks doubtfully.

"Even if he did, he is under no obligation to share." Olga takes the vote, saving you from necessity to come up with something sufficiently reassuring. "I have complete trust in my champion, and have yet to be disappointed by him."

"That's very nice, former majesty, but I suppose not of great relevance to us." Bellu retorted.

"Thank you for your input, knight marshal." Celestine preempted further escalation of a possible argument. "Mouse, I of course also trust your judgment, but sir Bellu is right that you will be going into the proverbial maw of the beast. Is there something we can do to support you on this quest?"

"My lady..." Bellu tries to object but is promptly silenced by a priest next to him.

"Lady Celestine, although I expect my mission would have taken me in this direction eventually, given current circumstances it only makes sense to hasten the schedule specifically to allow your forces weather the onslaught of the Beast in the north. I wish not to tie any of your forces with my endeavour."

Celestine's expression only barely shifts, although you can see her ears flag for a fraction of a moment, but in her green eyes you see this assertion saddens her.

"I see. Very well, my noble friend, I will pray for your success." She says.

"I believe our presence in this gathering has reached limits of usefulness. Come, Mouse, I have things I need to discuss with you." Queen Olga says and waves her hand, the luminous projection dissipating, leaving just the table and the regular tangible maps underneath.

"Certainly, my queen." You nod. "But before we go," You turn back to the humans that were watching the scene unfold. You hoped Olga asserting herself like that didn't humiliate or undermine Celestine too much. You couldn't help but feel fondness of the kind elf. "If I may be so bold as to make such a suggestion, the dwarves were studying the taint before, they should be made aware of this development as well."

"Of course, Mouse." Celestine nods with a warm smile you felt was not just an facade.

"Don't worry about that, I'm seeing shaper Quartzenslab on regular basis." Alicia pipes in. "He was going to help me outfit my men to clear out that accursed mine, but I suppose that will have to be put off now. I'll ask him to get the gear he was making for you ready sooner, though."

"Thank you." You tell the blonde princess earnestly.

Then, prompted by glare of dark queen's golden eyes you excuse yourself from the gathering with a bow and follow the (temporarily deposed) queen out of the hall, Chloe and two temple knights with you.

"Very well, let us then discuss further measures we need to make to ensure safety of our citizens during this crisis..." You hear Celestine resume her role in leading the meeting before the door closes behind you.

Olga leads you back to the lounge where she was deposited earlier. She stops before the door and waits for the golems that have meanwhile walked over from one door towards the other to open for her. If she is irritated that the golems give you a questioning look which you resolve with a nod before complying she doesn't let it show.

"Kindly stay outside." Olga tells the knights.

"With due respect, you are not our queen." Sir Frederick says.

"No, but I am guest of yours." The dark elf says with icy undercurrent to her tone.

For a moment they stare at each other, then the knight looks at you, then back at her, as if hesitating. Whatever was going through his head, eventually he relents and nods at his peer and the two knights leave you alone with the two dark skinned elves.

Olga walks over to the chair and drops into it, sinking in its softness.

"Ahhh." She vocalizes. "What?" She opens eyes she momentarily closed and looks at you and Chloe sternly. "This is the only good thing that has happened to me since morning, you will not take it away from me."

You blink, then look at Chloe, and finally shrug. Who were you to deny your queen?

For her part, Olga sighs and regains some of regal composure she let briefly slip. "Mouse. I believe you are making the right call to commit in this moment. Wasting time elsewhere would only give the Nameless more time to strategize and look for other paths. He is clearly acting on impulse, and it's better to keep it that way." She shifts in the seat and locks her golden eyes with yours. "Now that I'm here, I can support you personally. It is after all why I made the request of you earlier. You are likely going to need it."

It takes a few moments for meaning of Olga's words to register with you. Chloe realizes it a touch earlier.

"My Queen? You- no, you can't, it's too..."

"Dangerous?" Olga raises her eyebrows. "Without a doubt. But it offers an actual chance at victory, something this farcical war never held."

"W-what?"

"My precious shadow. You know the nature of Mouse's quest, and I can see it in your eyes that you too have come to accept it as your own. Did you think I would stand aside, rather than being there to wrest the victory with my own two hands?"

"B-but..." Chloe stutters. "We are your hands..." She whispers, and Olga's expression softens. The queen reaches out to touch her retainer's hand.

"And you have done wonderfully." She looks at you and again shuffles in her seat to make herself comfortable. "Regardless, it's not like I have anything else to do right now. Speaking of which, you still owe me a recount of what exactly have you done to rile the Beast up so horribly - and why your aura glows to rival that of my metamythical cousin."

This was going to take a while to explain properly.

"I see." Queen Olga simply nods as you conclude your tale. "Yes, that was quite a humiliating blow you delivered to the Enemy in a rather casual manner."

"It didn't feel very casual." You remark. Although you made your escape unscathed, downright miraculously so, you could not claim it was exactly an effortless or riskless endeavour.

"Regrettably technicalities of whatever method you are using on these... ventures... eludes me." Olga said, dashing some hopes you harboured she'd be able to offer some additional guidance. "But even so I find it difficult to accept that support from your followers alone was what allowed you to confront the Beast so directly."

"I have speculated possibility that perhaps I was confronting only a fragment, only some small manifestation, something I could measure up to, at least with backing of lady Celestine and my companions."

"Oh, without a doubt something like that is the case. Still, the connection to the goddess you have wrestled away from the Nameless seems pure, and as I said comparable to that of the Vessel herself. In truth, I'd say it's likely even purer in a way because Celestine's connection is a freak artifact of the Taint, whereas the connection you secured was seized in defiance of it. I'm sure it will prove an asset to you." Olga pauses for a moment, lost in thought. "It's a good thing Celestine didn't have chance to try and touch it with her power, if it is at its root truly corrupt, it might have lead to interaction dangerous to everyone involved."

You feel a slight shiver at that, and you're not sure if all of it is yours. "Yeah, that would have been bad..." You admit.

"Well, you know to avoid it then. Very well then. I believe you will need to talk to your men and make any preparations before departing. Any delay is likely going to cost us, but I do recommend not leaving before you've had a good rest. It may be a while until you're given chance to recuperate in such a, mmmm..." She wriggled in her seat. "comfy environment." She looks at Chloe. "This goes for you as well. You may accompany me, but I insist that you rest properly. There will be time enough for your vigilance, my shadow."

"Of... course, my queen..."

It felt like you were being dismissed. She was right, too, if you wanted to get something done, you better not put it off too much.

You left the room and let Olga and Chloe have some additional privacy for her reunion. And just as you were about to contemplate on what to do next, the nearby door to the council chamber opened and the notables were beginning to pour out, some with a weak, resigned step, others striding forcefully, in a hurry to get to work in face of the imminent, looming threat. You watched for familiar figures, and sure enough one was quick to emerge and immediately zero in on you.

"Mouse! I'm glad I caught you still."

"Lady Celestine."

"I understand that you're eager to pursue your quest, but please, be careful." The fair haired elf takes your hand in hers. "I really wish I could help you more, but I suppose you're right. And it would be selfish of me to go against my military advisors for personal reasons."

"I'm glad that you understand." You say somewhat awkwardly.

"But still..." She looks you in the eye. "Mouse, if you think I could be of help... please, tell me. And I will... go with you, myself. I may not be particularly martial among the princesses... but I'm not entirely helpless." Celestine allows herself to flare up slightly with her powers, be it because she felt like it or to emphasize her point. But her expression softens quickly enough. "I'm sorry, I don't mean to pressure you, especially now that I'm sure you are reminded of your loyalties to queen Olga..." She looks aside, somewhat wistfully. "I'm sorry, I have to go to the evening service I should preside over. But afterwards, I would appreciate it if you could join me in my chambers again. Especially if there is chance I could see your connection with Mother... it would mean a lot to me. But... again, don't feel pressured. You have... a dangerous trip ahead of you."

She steps away.

"Take care, Mouse!"

And then she is gone.

Well, you do have things to do and places to be...

>Go track down your men. They need to be told of your next mission.
>Maybe now would be good time to track down one of the other princesses if you wanted to talk to one about something
>There's some time before sunset. Perhaps you could squeeze some weapon practice in.
>Go to your room and get some rest. Even if you decide to meet Celestine later, you could benefit from a nap - and with any luck, you could obtain some answers alongside with it.
>other idea

>>5790675
>Go track down your men. They need to be told of your next mission.
then
>Go to your room and get some rest. Even if you decide to meet Celestine later, you could benefit from a nap - and with any luck, you could obtain some answers alongside with it.
we have a long journey ahead and a brutal fight.

>>5790675
>Go track down your men. They need to be told of your next mission.
>Maybe now would be good time to track down one of the other princesses if you wanted to talk to one about something
Is Maya still around? She could help us to sneak and attack any mercenary camp we find along the way, since she is likely to know at least something on the way they do things.

>>5790675
>Go track down your men. They need to be told of your next mission.

>>5790675
> Go track down your men. They need to be told of your next mission.

If Maia's around, then
> Maybe now would be good time to track down one of the other princesses if you wanted to talk to one about something
... because Maia's a defector and she knows more about how mercs operate than we do.

if she isn't, then
> Go to your room and get some rest. Even if you decide to meet Celestine later, you could benefit from a nap - and with any luck, you could obtain some answers alongside with it.

... and if we decide to meditate with Celestine again, bring our squad (Olga included) along. Any insight on our powers should to be shared across our team to ensure maximum operational efficiency.

>>5790675
>Go track down your men. They need to be told of your next mission.
>Go to your room and get some rest. Even if you decide to meet Celestine later, you could benefit from a nap - and with any luck, you could obtain some answers alongside with it.

New thread is this way.
>>5796874

Thank you friends for participating in this one