Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)18:25 No. 258135 ID: cf68aa
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"Master~ Wake up~"

Artemis rubs her eyes.

"What time is it...?"

"8 in the morning master. Just like you asked."

"Thanks Mimi.."

Mmm.. Morning guys.
All right, Apple will be punished at exactly 1PM.. I have quite a few hours.
What should I do first? I think Morgan's is open already.

You have FIVE.

GO.

alright, get up, minor workout to wake up, fastest meal possible, and then we need to figure out if there maybe are records or someone who knows who Apple's old squadmates and leader were, and where to find them. Morgan should be saved for if things need to be rushed.

oh, and sleep alright? sorry if we kept ya up.

Morgans is the first place to check, if a truth potion or whatever is possible you need to know as soon as possible, and she needs to get started just as quickly. Talking to the king can wait a little while. If you see Kacey or Saisai or any of your other friends grab them and explain the situation on the way but don't waste time looking around.

Also... still female. Do you want to stay that way for a while more or change you back now? Our energy is high enough to spare that and still have enough for a limit break before lunch. Whichever you feel more comfortable talking to Morgan as, I guess.

>>258137
No, we see morgan now and get things ready now. We have no idea how long potions take, so they should be ordered ASAP. We should have ordered them LAST NIGHT.

>>258135
Go buy a truth serum and a love potion. I hope we won't need the love potion, but we need backup plans.

As far as the truth serum, something that makes a person incapable of lying and compels them to answer any questions they are asked would be best.

Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)19:12 No. 258149 ID: cf68aa
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Oh wow... I did stay asleep as a girl. Huh, first time I've done that. No wonder I didn't ge-
Oh! I can't let my thoughts wander now! Morgan's shop it is!

Artemis bids Mimi goodbye and runs off. He grabs a Protein Bar from the cafeteria and heads off to Morgan's Special Potions shop.

she enters the shop. Morgan looks up at her, her expression going from apathy to surprise.

"A-artemis! I.. I didn't expect to see you again so soon... Can I help you..?"

"Hi Morgan. I need some kind of Truth Potion. Something that will make the drinker want to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth."

"Uhm... I'm afraid I don't have such a potion... I can craft it though! It'll only take me a few days.."

Hmm. Our guardian points max out at 100, correct? If so, is there any way to increase that limit? A higher cap would be quite handy.

That's tangential to current activities, though. Carry on with righteous investigations and such. Take care not to get your nose chopped off when poking it into others' business.

>>258149
Crap! Well explain the situation Apple is in, and see if there is anything she can think of that might help.

>>258149
Turn on the [charm] and-

Fuck, wrong quest.

Ask her if there is anything, ANYTHING, that can speed things up. Explain the whole of the situation.

>>258149
"Ok, don't tell anybody about this... You know that thief? Apple? Well, at 1pm they're going to chop her hand off unless I can convince them otherwise. I have reason to think that she was framed for the worst charge on her record, but I need to find a way to prove it.
But if it would take days, and I only have a few hours."
Sigh, hang your head
"Ok, well, if I can't clear her name then I need to make it so that the king doesn't see a point in her punishment.
You don't have a loyalty potion, do you? Well, a love potion could work for that, right? She wouldn't cause trouble because she wouldn't want to disappoint me?"

"Well, I'm ashamed I came too soon, but you seemed just the thing I needed to see this morning. Thank you though irregardless"

Alright, with that out of the way, pick up a love potion (say its for a friend). And then we get to detective-ing, we need to learn who Apple's captain and squadmates were, and where the attack took place.

looks like we need to snoop the old fashioned way.
ask her to have that put in the works in case we ever need something like that again.

Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)19:51 No. 258167 ID: cf68aa
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"Ok, don't tell anybody about this... You know that thief? Apple? Well, at 1pm they're going to chop her hand off unless I can convince them otherwise. I have reason to think that she was framed for the worst charge on her record, but I need to find a way to prove it. But if it would take days, and I only have a few hours."

"I see.. I'm sorry I could not help out.. Please, take this."

She hands Artemis a red potion.

"It is a love potion. Half the bottle should be good enough to create a intense attraction to the giver for a hour. If it helps in any way..

"Thank Morgan. Here let me-"

"It is.. 'On the house'."

"Are you sure?"

"Just... Please come by whenever you have free time. I would love to chat with you more."

>>258167
"Sure, when I have time."

Okay, we have our ace. Go go go, you have five hours to run a criminal investigation that should take place over a few days.

"It would be my honor milady, thank you so much."

then give her a half hug and rush off because you need to hurry!

>>258167
"I'd like that too. Actually, are you doing anything tonight? I was made a knight recently, and I haven't gone out to celebrate yet... I'd love your company at dinner, on me."

Hopefully you'll score a date. Then get moving.

Promise her you'll visit again soon, and you'll only need her company. Don't want to make it seem like you're just using her, you know?

>>258169
Agreed, but first "I'll still need the truth potion. Oh, and what does a whole bottle of this do?"

So, we do the investigation now. If it doesn't pan out before about 12:15 then we give it to Apple, tell her our plan, and let her choose to drink it and become Art's pet until her 'assaulting a knight' charge is removed, or lose her hand.

>>258173
>>258173
>>258173
>>258173
>>258173
This plan will have to do.

>>258167
awwww we need to get her a gift eventually.

Giving the potion to Apple is not going to solve anything. But perhaps if we gave it to the captain..? Well, lets get to back talk to our friends and gather some info, we can work out a plan then.

"I'll come back as soon as I can :)"
Let's go ask the king if he can delay the sentence while we get a truth serum.

>>258183
"Oh, hai king! Apple just chose to become my willing slave and give up her free will, so you can let her keep her hands. :3c"

>>258183
Ideally, we'd get Apple to give it to the captain, who would immediately attempt to clear her name using whatever information/confessions would help. But I'm not sure how we'd manage that, and its morality is pretty dubious.

Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)20:56 No. 258214 ID: cf68aa
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"I'd like that. If you're free tonight I would love some company. I'm going out for the night to celebrate my knighthood."

"O-okay..."

Artemis smiles at her then leaves.
She runs back to the castle, just as she crosses the gates she feels someone tap her shoulder.

"Artemis?"

A man in odd armor stands there.

"Yes.."

"I'm Captain Gerald, I heard about your last mission. Just wanted to congratulate you on a job well done."

"O-oh! Uhm, thank you captain."

"No problem. That girl's been rowdy for years. It's about time the king did something about her."

"You don't like her?"

"You can say that. A while back she wounded me pretty badly. Got her kicked out of the knights."

!!!

Do this nicely, we need to be subtle, get info, THEN bring him down.

"Ah! well.. thank you Captain Gerald, its an honor to hear that from someone of your rank. Umm, if I may ask, I was curious what other squad mates were part of that group during the time? I heard that before things went downhill and she dared to attack you, this was quite an amazing team! Its just.... so much easier to talk to those closer to my own rank, if you don't mind... Captain"

>>258214
"Really? I imagine that's a fascinating story; can you tell me all about it over a cup of coffee?"

"how did she manage that?"

"Oh really? Why did she do a fool thing like that? No sense in it. Glad it's over with though, no more of that nonsense."

Then invite him to go get some drinks, since you just became a knight and you succeeded at your first mission and haven't had a chance to celebrate. He can tell you all about his heroics or something.

>>258217
YES.

Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)21:23 No. 258226 ID: cf68aa
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"Oh really? Why did she do a fool thing like that? No sense in it. Glad it's over with though, no more of that nonsense."

"I agree. Shame, hardly anyone has managed to deal any damage to me."

"Really? So how did she?"

"Haha it's a long story."

"I imagine so; can you tell me all about it over a cup of coffee?"

"Hmm.. I have some free time. Though I'm not much of a coffee drinker."

The two of them walk to the cafe. As they sit Artemis notices that he only drinks out of a flask on his side. She offers the captain to buy him something but he declines. Instead of telling how Apple managed to wound him he goes on and on about his exploits and how he once single handedly killed a group of demons using his 'gem magic'.
[/i]

>>258226
"Impressive that Apple was able to even wound such a hero!"

>>258226
"As curious as I am about your magic, I want to know how a ditch rat could cut a knight captain. Say that story, sir?"

Watch his eyes. If he can't look you in the face, that's a very common tell for a liar.

"As someone with such talents, I bet you must have trained some amazing students! who have you trained besides the horrific Apple incident? they must have learned so much from you?"

Extra Bonus GP:110 Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)21:47 No. 258236 ID: cf68aa
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"As curious as I am about your magic, I want to know how a ditch rat could cut a knight captain. Say that story, sir?"

"Well she didn't get what she wanted. You know how girls like her can be. They don't get what they want so they throw a tantrum. It's silly if you ask me."

"I agree. So who have you trained besides Apple? they must have learned so much from you."

"Unfortunately most of my members seem to perish on the field. Shame really."

.... I am getting uncomfortable.

>>258236
"You didn't awnser my question. A little girl like her managed to wound a night captian by throwing a tantrum?!"

>>258236
"Oh, no. I didn't ask why, but how. I want to know how a ditch rat could land a hit on such a skillful warrior. Basic gravity magic brought a stop to my fight against ratty without any blows, so how did ratty draw blood from you?"

>>258240

Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)22:09 No. 258244 ID: cf68aa
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"Oh, no. I didn't ask why, but how. I want to know how a ditch rat could land a hit on such a skillful warrior. Basic gravity magic brought a stop to my fight against ratty without any blows, so how did ratty draw blood from you?"

"Ah yes. It was a dark night. The girl is very gifted at scaling things. She crept along the ceiling and struck at blinding speed. It was only a small scratch but one should not disrespect their superiors."

>>258244
"Only a small scratch? But I heard tell of a greivous wound!"

[gender change]

"Well, thank you sir, I was glad to hear your story and talents. I do fear i've stolen far too much of someone as valuable as yours time"

>>258214
"But you said "she wounded me pretty badly". So what, have you gotten so good at avoiding damage you are a total wuss when you do? Is that why your members keep dying, because you keep running off and letting them fend for themselves?"

>>258250
That's kind of tipping our hand here, don'tcha think? We're playing the subtle game.

>>258214

" 'You can say that. A while back she wounded me pretty badly. Got her kicked out of the knights.' You really shouldn't change your story every ten minutes."

Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)22:21 No. 258258 ID: cf68aa
File 129023408541.png - (145.28KB , 700x700 , 133.png )

" 'You can say that. A while back she wounded me pretty badly. Got her kicked out of the knights.' You really shouldn't change your story every ten minutes."

"Of course. Do forgive me. I've had some memory problems ever since the attack. Very traumatic. If you'll excuse me."

He gets up to leave.

>>258244
Talk a bit loud now
"Wait, wait. Ratty struck from shadow? But you just said it was a tantrum. Tantrum has its point in loud and angry acts, but cold calm planning is how shadowy attacks work!"

>>258258
>>258258
"Funny, you remember your exploits pretty well."

>>258258
"...Lies. You're a goddamn liar. And a bad one at that. You don't get memory problems from a cut on the arm. It's goddamn hilarious how stupid you think I am. "

Yes, we're provoking him. It's the only way to end his charade.

>>258258
Stand and guard
"If it was but a scratch how could your mind find harm?
I don't think you said any words of truth. I think you took to lying to our king.
Why do your juniors fall so much in combat?
You stand against my accusations now; show your honor - if you know any honor."
Impact in six...

"Your first error was when you said that it was in the dark and planned. Earlier, you had stated that it was a temper tantrum, which implies she had done it impulsively and in anger. Second error was when you stated it was a small scratch: Earlier you had called it a greivous wound. Lastly, you claimed mental damages from the attack as well, despite recalling I had been recently enrolled, my name, and that I had recently completed a job, not to mention telling me your 'glorious exploits.'"

Follow with
>>258263

Limit break for intimidation and righteous anger.

Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)22:40 No. 258265 ID: cf68aa
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"Your first error was when you said that it was in the dark and planned. Earlier, you had stated that it was a temper tantrum, which implies she had done it impulsively and in anger. Second error was when you stated it was a small scratch: Earlier you had called it a greivous wound. Lastly, you claimed mental damages from the attack as well, despite recalling I had been recently enrolled, my name, and that I had recently completed a job, not to mention telling me your 'glorious exploits.'"

He leans in close and whispers in Artemis's ear.

"Okay, you caught me. Now what?"

>>258265
"Now I prepare a case, you liar. Prepare to lose your tongue, as a liar and a scoundrel."

Ask him why he's being such a dick. She doesn't seem too bad.

>>258265
"Now I point out that this is a room full of captains and knights who caught my words, but not what you said.
Satisfy what curiosity your mumbling grows, captain."

>>258270
>>258270
>>258270
>>258270
>>258270
>>258270

>>258265
"A wager. You think you're so damn powerful? Then fight me. I know you framed Apple, and I know you lead to the death of your men. Write down a confession and sign it. Give it to me. If you can defeat me you can take it back, and say whatever you want about me. If I win, I deliver your confession to the king and you swear to all it contains."

>>258272
He... can already say whatever he wants about us. And he'd likely kick our ass, since if entry into the knights is based on prowess it's likely that rank is as well, at least partially.

>>258270
No guarantee anyone would care, but it's better than nothing.

>>258265
I would just ask him what he got out of seeing Apple disgraced and criminalized. It hardly seems the sort of thing one would do to another on a whim.

Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)23:04 No. 258275 ID: cf68aa
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>>258273
You're right.. A fight would be suicide. And no one even seems to care...

"Just tell me one thing, why?"

"Why? Because women should never be allowed within the Knights. They are weak willed pests who deserve to only serve men. Teaching her where she truly belonged was the least I could do for my beloved knights."

"Were your teamates..."

"All girls, yes."

>>258275
ooohohohohohohoho.

Who is that behind him?

"why does the answer always have to be misogyny? why? Because im pretty sure I could find plunty of girls who could ruin you, at least a couple in this room alone"

>>258275
"You kill your juniors out of misogyny? You cut your own body so you can strip a knight of rank? Your words to our king hold naught but lying?
Traitor is a word with too much honor for you."

Nononono, no, don't point her out yet, keep him talking, let him dig himself in deeper. Ask what he did to keep the rest of the team out of the knights

>>258275
"You must have stabbed them all in the back, I doubt you could have bested them face to face. Apple was too quick for you though, you couldn't even touch her! You were outclassed by a lowly street rat girl, so you had to cut yourself to get away with it. Pathetic"

>>258275
"If that's so, why not just convince the king of it? Surely it should be easy enough to prove... and it would let you avoid arranging the deaths or disgrace of one person after another. That's hardly the act of an honorable knight."

Keep our cool. Don't openly lapse into insults, not yet.

Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)23:40 No. 258289 ID: cf68aa
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"You kill your juniors out of misogyny? You cut your own body so you can strip a knight of rank? Your words to our king hold naught but lying?"

"Correct in all counts."

His voice is still low. no one around seems to be listening...

"If that's so, why not just convince the king of it? Surely it should be easy enough to prove... and it would let you avoid arranging the deaths or disgrace of one person after another. That's hardly the act of an honorable knight."

"Because then I wouldn't have the pleasure of doing it myself"

>>258289
"You aren't under any sort of spell, saying this? No weird potion or anything? You're not drunk?"

>>258289
this dude is openly telling you this. That's horrifying and I suggest that you not go to sleep tonight.

>>258289
Hold us up and grin
"Good thing I can play this talk again for our king, isn't it?"

"You should know, I'm not going to let you get away with this right? I'm going straight to the king, and I'm going to put you in your place. Because fuck you."

Artemis 2010/11/19(Fri)23:55 No. 258298 ID: cf68aa
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"You aren't under any sort of spell, saying this? No weird potion or anything? You're not drunk?"

"No to all counts."

>>258291
It is unnerving... I feel like he would have no problem killing me in my sleep.

"You should know, I'm not going to let you get away with this right? I'm going straight to the king, and I'm going to put you in your place."

"Hahaha... You have no proof little boy."

Artemis holds up the Guardians

"Good thing I can play this talk again for our king, isn't it?"

Gerald's expression shifts from shock to anger. He grabs at the Guardian only to have its natural magic shield block him. He glares at Artemis.

"Give. It. To. Me."

>>258298
"Or what? You'll gut me in the street?"

>>258298
Shake head. "I'm sorry, captain, but I have a responsibility as a knight. To protect people, and to do the right thing, even when that's dangerous or likely to land me in a great deal of trouble. It stays with me."

Artemis. Now is the time to use a special technique passed down from generation to generation of adventurers for use in tight situations:

Run away! (To the King)

>>258298
"I'm afraid that's quite impossible, it is bound to me and none other, so long as I live."

>>258298
Grin
"No, I don't think I will. Although I think I might allow you a window in which to say it on your own; our king may show you pity that way.
Mmm... No, I don't think I will; a woman proving your traitorous acts is a just irony, don't you concur?"

>>258302
...
...
...

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo, nononononononono, no, no. No.

Just... No.

>>258303
...No.

>>258302
This will make him want to kill us.

>>258303
This is the path of evil gloating over our not-really-defeated enemies. That is a bad path to take.

>>258301
I'd shoot for more 'Stride off confidently, like a boss', but the essence of the idea is the same.

>>258305
>>258306
Well no, it would make him try. Making the first move, attacking a fellow knight, in a public place, and we have immediate backup. I think we can use that.

>>258300
This.

Artemis 2010/11/20(Sat)00:17 No. 258313 ID: cf68aa
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"I'm sorry, captain, but I have a responsibility as a knight. To protect people, and to do the right thing, even when that's dangerous or likely to land me in a great deal of trouble. It stays with me."

Artemis tries to walk away. Gerald walks in front of him and reaches for a blade. Artemis hears Saisai shout

"Royal Battle!"

Everyone in the Cafe turns now to look at the three of them.

"I challenge you Captain Gerald to a Royal Battle!"

Saisai is shaking in anger, her spear uncovered.

"Royal Battle?"

"The two of us will fight. First to draw blood wins. A knight can not refuse one."

Gerald stands there. He stomps on the ground and walks over to Saisai.

"Artemis, go give that recording to the king. I'll stall."

>>258310
We don't need him to attack us first. We already have enough evidence. Besides, he's probably going to attack us anyway because us.

>>258313
"Thank you, Saisai. Be well." Dash off, top speed, to get to the king. If the captain is as competent as his rank might indicate, he might trash Saisai in a matter of seconds and come hunt us down; we've got to move fast.

Could be paranoia, but it's not worth the risk.

>>258313
TIME TO GO

Flash step back to the castle. All the way. As many as needed. Speed is needed and time is important. I have no doubts he'll try to simply kill Saisai during the battle. We need to do this FAST.

Problem: We can't, uh, actually record anything.

>>258313
Walk for this door out, put your hand upon Saisai's arm as you pass, and stop to softly say our words
"Goad him with his horrid acts prior to drawing blood."
Go to our king, and ask for him to watch this and look on angrily.

>>258317
If that's so, and this was all a bluff, then we've still got to stick with it. If we tell the king what has happened, he might at least be willing to bait Gerald a bit to see if he'll admit to something that he thinks the king has already seen proof of, and thereby implicate himself. Or to delay things a couple days while we get that truth potion.

No talking, no time for words, just GO!

[chain flash step, like a boss]

GP:90 Artemis 2010/11/20(Sat)01:11 No. 258330 ID: cf68aa
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Artemis Flash Steps to go see the King who seems to already be on his way to the Arena.
He explains the situation including his request
>>258320 the king agrees and they both hurry to the Arena.
When they arrive Gerald and Saisai are already fighting. Gerald sends out spikes of some kind of gem at Saisai who Jumps over them.

Artemis 2010/11/20(Sat)01:13 No. 258331 ID: cf68aa
File 129024438448.png - (192.39KB , 700x700 , 140.png )

He moves in for another strike.
Suddenly he sees.

He drops his blade and stares off, no longer paying attention to his opponent.

>>258330
Watch this match with a shit-eating grin on your face.

Artemis 2010/11/20(Sat)01:13 No. 258333 ID: cf68aa
File 12902444207.png - (110.97KB , 700x700 , 141.png )

On the other side of the arena Artemis and the King watch, the king glaring at Gerald.

Artemis 2010/11/20(Sat)01:14 No. 258334 ID: cf68aa
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Gerald stares back.
At first it looks like he'll run, but he giggles.
The giggle becomes a laugh which turns into full blown hysterics.
This goes on for a full minute before he finally regains composure.

"So now you know? Yes. I faked it. I did that.. I KILLED ALL THOSE PEOPLE AND FRAMED APPLE!"

The crowd gasps and whispers amongst themselves,

"But I HAD to! SOMEONE had to! You were letting weak women get into the knights! This is no place for a girl! NO PLACE AT ALL! Our male knights can't pay attention with them and they only slow us down! Don't you see!?"

Artemis 2010/11/20(Sat)01:14 No. 258335 ID: cf68aa
File 129024447917.png - (150.94KB , 700x700 , 143.png )

"I HAD T-!!?"

Something cuts him across the face. He reaches up to it and wipes off the blood.

"W-who...?"

He turns around

Artemis 2010/11/20(Sat)01:15 No. 258336 ID: cf68aa
File 129024451231.png - (159.07KB , 700x700 , 144.png )

>"I win."

Right. I'd say it's time to party, but I think we have more pressing things to do. Like taking this sociopath down for good. Ask his majesty whether to capture him, or if we have permission to use lethal force and end him here.

>>258336
Turn to the king
"Sir Apple will need a new squad, such as my own, but first I'm curious about what the punishment is for a captain who is found guilty of treason."

(Also, mental note: Make sure to tell Saisai sometime that we don't really have AMAZING TAPE-RECORDER POWERS (TM) so she doesn't try relying on them for something vital.)

>>258340
Do not instantly assume that she's cleared of all charges. While she's no longer guilty of assaulting a superior officer, she's still got a half-dozen thefts on her record for which she has no excuse.

>>258342
No, but she HAS been cleared of the charge that caused her to be stripped of her title.
I'm quite certain the king will restore her title; doubly so when we inform him that this murderous traitor wouldn't have been exposed without her help.

>>258342
I'l conceed she's still been convicted for a lot of stuff, but I agree with >>258345 in that she's sure to at least get a second chance at being a knight.

>>258345
>>258347
That's likely, particularly if we argue on her behalf, but it's not certain. The king has shown himself to be rather ruthless in the past. Best not to make assumptions, particularly when there's serious matters like this going on and the king likely has his own ideas on how things should now go.

Artemis 2010/11/20(Sat)01:42 No. 258349 ID: cf68aa
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"Y-your highness! T-they tricked me! Your highness! Believe me!"

>"Gerald... I'd always suspected this was so. Even so I did not have any evidence. But this confession is all I need."

"What's going to happen to him..?"

"For killing many knights and lying to me, the king, the punishment
is death"

Artemis 2010/11/20(Sat)01:43 No. 258351 ID: cf68aa
File 129024621641.png - (38.11KB , 700x700 , 145.png )

Gerald screams in pain.
He points at Artemis but before he can say a word he is gone.
The only sign of him is a small puddle of blood on the floor

>>258351
"...does this sort of thing happen often?"

>>258349
Neutral face.
"Pity about his magic; I would have liked to have learned that, but I don't hold out much hope for him leaving behind notes."
Turn to face the king.
"My liege, I would like to request permission to offer Apple reinstatement of her knighthood and a position in my squad.
Also, the creation of a repository under your care for spells and techniques so that future knights may benefit from our research."

Ok noting this for future reference: Don't fuck with the king.

First go thank Saisai for being awesome. Then we should go be there for the pardoning of Apple.

>Also, the creation of a repository under your care for spells and techniques so that future knights may benefit from our research.
There isn't one of these already? And regardless, what brought this on- it doesn't really seem like an appropriate moment to bring it up, even if it would be an excellent project for some future point.

>>258358
We just witnessed some truly awesome magic being removed from existence because the only person who knew it did not deserve to live.
Yea, seems a good time as any.

Wait, wait.

One, we cant just assume Apple can be just magically reinstated. She didnt go trough the trials. Her being in the Knights was more like a sideproject.

Therefore, let's not just butt in and try to have her attached to us k?

>>258360
huh?
she was kicked out of the knights under false pretenses. having her put back in would be simple, he is the king after-all, he can do whatever he feels like.
but also, don't ask to have her in our squad, we are a newbie squad of 4 already, to get bigger will take getting better.
and later we can bring up his magic powers thing.

>>258368
>he is the king after-all, he can do whatever he feels like
Indeed he can. So if he feels like she still needs to pay for her theft, regardless of her guilt on the assaulting a superior officer thing, then no one is going to argue- particularly after watching him turn a capable warrior into a puff of smoke in all of two seconds. Apple might be more innocent than previously believed, but she's still guilty of some things, make no mistake- I seriously doubt she'll get a free pass out of this situation. Reinstating her knighthood after she was just caught committing a different crime... that would be exceptionally generous on the king's part, and that's putting it mildly.

Basically, it all depends upon what the king wants.

>>258370
Artemis would argue. Right now, though? He's got more than enough brownie points in the king's bank of karma to tilt things that way, so there won't be any arguing.

>>258368
The trouble with larger squads isn't skill, it's teamwork. The largest part of that, and the part where new teams have the most trouble, is in unit cohesion.
As it stands the unit has decent cohesion in general, with the only variation of note being the stronger bond between Artemis and Saisai due to what they both went through.
Apple would have a very strong bond with Artemis and Saisai as a result of how they seriously put themselves on the line for her, and not only saved her hand but got her back her title and offered her a place among them. There's an old saying along the lines of 'Nothing's more loyal than a stray dog that's found a home', and I've little doubt that will apply here.
The result would be going from a 4-unit squad with a 2-unit improved bond to a 5-unit squad with a strong 3-unit improved bond.
The last two are wildcards.
I don't foresee any conflict between her and Kain; honestly I think he's to much a lighthearted goof to get bogged down by details like who on his team used to do what.
There's a chance she might not mesh too well with Kacey due to his strong moral code borne of being a monk, but I'm not expecting difficulty mitigating that if it does pose a problem.

>>258368
See >>257989 "The king gave me a chance and put me in without even taking the test." Her last chance at decent life or not, she didn't got in trough regular means.
Which is why I doubt the wisdom of bringing her back and attaching her to Artemis like its a Ken Akamatsu manga.

Seriously. Commit a crime, join the army, gain prestige, is that the message we're trying to pass?

>>258376
Conscription into the army HAS been a punishment through out the ages. Hell, a court can still order you into the marines or army at full pay today.

In any case, should go and collect ourselves. It looks like we found our good 'ol antagonist.

Just play it cool and ask the king what will become of Apple. Pretty sure he'll give her another chance, but we shouldn't imply that he will or won't. I somehow doubt he'd go on to punish the victim of a treasonous knight, though. She at least deserves that "last chance" back.

1. "Sire, I do realize that Apple still has a list of crimes to her name. However, it appears to me that many of them were committed out of desperation after Captain Gerald framed her - we'll never know how many capable female Knights whose lives he cut short or permanently ruined. Perhaps the best way to make any kind of reparations for this would be to at least lessen her punishment - perhaps some sort of probationary re-enlistment under supervision?"

2. Go to Saisai. "Saisai, I must thank you. Without your intervention I might not have succeeded against Gerald. But there is one last thing I must let you know - I had no actual recording. That was a bluff."

dive over to Saisai when you have the chance for a big glomping hug!

"Saisai! you did it, you were amazing! and we removed a misogist jerk who was killing people from our ranks. I can't thank you more for what you just did, every female here owes you" (in a whisper) "Myself included at this moment I suppose eh?"

>>258421
Best option.

Artemis 2010/11/21(Sun)10:23 No. 258669 ID: cf68aa
File 129036382535.png - (120.81KB , 700x700 , 146.png )

Artemis sees Saisai walk out of the Arena as people cheer her on.
Artemis turns to the king.

"Sire, I do realize that Apple still has a list of crimes to her name. However, it appears to me that many of them were committed out of desperation after Captain Gerald framed her - we'll never know how many capable female Knights whose lives he cut short or permanently ruined. Perhaps the best way to make any kind of reparations for this would be to at least lessen her punishment - perhaps some sort of probationary re-enlistment under supervision?"

"I agree, her case is certainly different now. I am not heartless Artemis, I try to do what is best for my people. Not just the general populace but for the individual. I will review Apple's case. By tomorrow I should have a final answer. Thank you Artemis, you've stuck your neck out for someone and it paid off."

He turns to leave.

"One more thing. While it may not seem so at first Gerald did have many friends. Several of them were very close to him."

He leaves.

>>258669
Even the most noble act will leave someone in great pain. It is up to you to decide if that's worth it.

in other-words watch your back. let's get down there and thank saisai for her timely arrival.

Hell yeah it was worth it, and if anyone has a problem with it we can kick their ass. As long as we got good friends to back you up anyway, so get over there and thank Saisai for keeping our own from getting whupped.

>>258421
now go over to Saisai and forget being sad! Shes had a bad day I suspect so far (wake up, get all female-kind insulted and learn about deaths), do go be nice.

>>258669
On the upshot, any female knights and all his enemies are going to like you and Saisai a bit more.
Go meet with Saisai; you need to talk with her.

He was a powerful man too....

Remember when we advised a detective into shaming a crook cop in public? Deja vu anyone?

yeah, run to catch up with Saisai, definitely, but don't be too gushy in your thanks - she's made it pretty clear she's not into fame and glory. probably wants to keep a low profile.

Artemis 2010/11/21(Sun)19:48 No. 258848 ID: cf68aa
File 129039768667.png - (169.19KB , 700x700 , 147.png )

Artemis runs out of the Arena and catches up with Saisai

"Saisai! You did great! Thanks for all the help"

"Hmph. I didn't do it for you. That scumbag deserved it."

"Even if you didn't thanks. If you hadn't fought him I might've myself. The things he were saying about women was terrible. Obviously he never met someone like you."

"Thanks.."

"Well anyway I'll see you later, thanks again."

He turns to leave.

"Hey, Artemis."

Artemis 2010/11/21(Sun)19:48 No. 258850 ID: cf68aa
File 129039769926.png - (138.37KB , 700x700 , 148.png )

"Some people from my family are hosting a party for me.. Someone can't make it so there's a spot open if you want to come along. We need to fill it and I was going to ask... My other friend but I saw you first."

sure, that sounds lovely.

also she doesn't have another friend but she doesn't want you to know that so don't bring it up.

>>258850
"When is it? I was hoping for some quiet time... I mean for a day off its been kinda nuts already. And I think a member of your family doesn't like me much at all. But I'll be there for you if you want me there. Just let me take care of a couple things first"

REMEMBER: You said you wanted to spend time with Morgan already. You should go to this special event and all, you can have dinner with Morgan another time if you must. Ideally this will be over before anything like that. But do not blow her off without talking to her first. You will stop and see her before you do anything else even if you think you'll have time after it.

>>258850
"I would love to, thank you! Should I dress nicely for it? Oh, and uh... *whisper* Which 'me' should I be?"

>>258850
"I would be honored, Saisai."

Oh and this shouldn't wait - tell Saisai what the king said about that jerk having friends. Have her be extra careful.

>>258896
>>258856

>>258850
it's rude to go to a party with gifts so make time for that

>>258911
pretty sure this guy means 'withOUT gifts'

So tsuntsun....

>>258896

>>258934

So weeaboo!

oh, ask Saisai about the feather, is it anything special?

AND GLOMP HER!... ok, maybe when the spear isn't in the way.

>>259087
Second.

>>259087
glomp?

>>259087
... No.
>>258875
This.

Artemis 2010/11/23(Tue)18:14 No. 259307 ID: cf68aa
File 129056488257.png - (133.46KB , 700x700 , 149.png )

Don't worry I'm not gonna stand Morgan up. I'll tell her that somethings come up and I'll see her later.

"I would be honored, Saisai."

"Okay. Oh, and try to go as a girl. I don't want my boyfriend to get jealous."

"Okay."

Saisai leaves.

Wait....

Huh?

>>259307
Attend party as woman.
Be so damn seductive toward every woman there that her boyfriend has reason to be jealous.

>>259307
...you should really catch up with her before she's completely gone and explain that your primary identity is male, and you're not going to run around introducing yourself to people as a woman. That's the sort of thing that could jeopardize your standing in the knighthood, y'know.

Also, she didn't tell you when or where this is. You don't even know if it will conflict with your thing with Morgan.

>>259315
To solve issue:
Get a different outfit.
Introduce self as Apollo.

>>259307
Ah, k. That's a bit unexpected. I suppose it could be an arranged relationship or blackmail or some such thing, but lets just assume it's perfectly normal.

Go get a gift for the party. A bottle of wine, maybe.

Yeah, get details. Both about the information on the party, and her boyfriend if you can do it politely. And as mentioned a party gift would be nice. Either a bottle of wince or a good desert like a fresh pie.

in b4 boyfriend hitting on Artemis

Really, to the majority of the world you are male, unless you want to divide between male and female to be more known your going to go as male. The fact shes asking you to go as female even feels insensitive to me.

Anyways, with that out of the way, did you want to switch to male? We should probably do something as long as were out, we have money, maybe go learn something, library? leave some time to see how Mimi reacts to being fed some of our power probably. Just my thoughts.

>>259329
> leave some time to see how Mimi reacts to being fed some of our power probably.

That reminds me. See if she can run on hugs and d'aaawww.

>>259317
I support this plan.

Artemis 2010/11/23(Tue)21:19 No. 259381 ID: cf68aa
File 129057599194.png - (114.40KB , 700x700 , 150.png )

"Oh! Saisai, where is it and what time?"

"I was going to get you a invitation but since you're so eager, it'll be at my home. I'll walk you there myself. The time is later tonight. I'll grab you from your room when it's time to go."

she leaves.

Okay so I still have a bit of time.

>>259329
I really don't mind going as a girl... I'll just need to dress up or something to hide my identity.
though being a girl all day has been rather odd. I feel... Incomplete... you know?
And I need to use the bathroom...

But first I need to see if I have any spare clothes. If not I'll need to go shopping or something. And presents too.

Artemis returns to his room. He sees Mimi bent over her chest trying to grab a crayon on the floor.

"Stupid chest! Come on crayon! Roll this way darnit!"

[gender change]

daaw, thats hilarious and cute! roll the crayon over and hug Mimi!

>>259381
Smile and hand her the crayon, then hug your poor mimic.
She must have missed you! Tell her what happened through the day.

>>259381
Give her the crayon back, hug her, and kiss her on the cheek.
OH! Ask her what would happen if you used a key on her chest while it was open. :D

Give her a little mana to see what happens, and tell her you want to know what you can do, besides feeding her, to make her life happy.

>>259381
Adorable. Get the crayon for her, but also tell her it's ok if she needs to use your staff for things like that.

We have enough energy right now that we can turn you male for a while and back again later. If you want to, but it can wait. As for what to get and how to go about it, I really think you need another friend who knows your gender situation and can help with things like clothes. Someone who likes you, and isn't going to mind much or rat you out. And we were going to go see Morgan anyway so... why not?

>>259381
Pat Mimi on the butt.

>>259384
OH! ALSO!
Ask to see her contract! :D

>>259381
ask Morgan if she wants to come with you as a date

>>259381
parties usually have food so before you leave ask her if you should bring some back some for her

>>259391
Or explain it at least. We don't want to spend a bunch of time going over the details of a demon contract.

>>259392
Only one invite available. Besides we don't know what kind of situation we're walking into here. Best just not to bother.

>>259399
We don't need to "go over" anything.
Show us the contract and we can work things out for Art while he's doing other things.

Gender Change GP:100 Artemis 2010/11/23(Tue)22:07 No. 259403 ID: cf68aa
File 129057885286.png - (171.14KB , 700x700 , 151.png )

>>259390
What!? no!

>>259386
Yeah, I suppose Morgan would be best for this. Anyway..

Artemis rolls the crayon to Mimi. She picks it up and smiles.

"Thank you master."

"No problem Mimi, you know you're free to use my things to do that kind of stuff."

"Okay :3"

"So Mimi, I mean to ask, what kind of powers do you have? Will giving you my mana help?"

"Well the only powers I have are storing things and giving them back to you Master. Your mana can either be used to pull thins out of the chest or to give me more power. Once I gain enough I can give you more space."

"So you can't like shoot fire or polymorph?"

"I'm just a low level demon. I'm lucky I even got this job.."

Artemis 2010/11/23(Tue)22:07 No. 259404 ID: cf68aa
File 129057886163.png - (41.46KB , 542x241 , 152.png )

Aww...

"Mimi, can I see your contact?"

"Huh? Sure!"
She hands him a piece of paper with odd writing on it.

>>259403
100 GP?
I wonder how much we can pump into her before we get more space...

>>259403
Uh can she explain that? And ask her how much mana is needed to give her more space, and if its one of those permanent drain type things?

have her nom on our delicious guardian power (points)!

and really.... your not going to hug her? she looked so adorable.

Ask if you can hold onto the contract, maybe go to library and translate?

Hug Mimi!

>>259404
Ok, I can't piece together enough of this to do anything useful; just that her death would terminate the contract.
Ask her to explain what it says in each of the boxes.
Oh, and ask her what would happen if you used a key on her chest while it was open.

Meanwhile how about you dump, say, HALF of your mana into her and we'll give her a bit more on our own.
[Give Mimi 80 GP]

ah, yes... probably worth specifying
[Give Mimi 50 GP]

id rather have a reserve.

>>259410
50 GP and half of your mana

Ask her what language this is in, and if she can teach it to you. Also seconding the 50 gp.

Artemis 2010/11/23(Tue)23:59 No. 259420 ID: cf68aa
File 129058555593.png - (179.17KB , 700x700 , 153.png )

"So what does this say...?"

"It's written in Demonic. Basically it says I need to do whatever you ask or die trying~ Also it says the contract is only broken if I'm A)Killed or B)My contract is fulfilled."

"How can it be fulfilled?"

"I'm not allowed to say that yet~"

"Okay. So uhm... Is there a key I can use on you? what would it do?"

"Well later on I can give you my key. It'll basically pop me out of the chest."

"Okay."

>>259414

"Oh! Here Mimi."

Artemis gives half his Mana and GP. Mimi glows.

"Level Up! Yay~ Now I can fit more thing into the chest~ I can also pull myself out just a tiny bit more :3"

>>259420
Nice! Ask to see how far she can stretch out of the box. Can you tell if she looks different? Or your bag? Oh and try to see how far she can fit her arm the bag.

One more thing... because sometimes it might be too difficult to pull off alone, we should have a special signal to do things we don't have time to write notes for. Like if we put in a drinking container and then tickled her, she would pour the potion into it and give it back. Who knows, could be handy.

So when will you be allowed to say when the contract will be fulfilled?

>>259420
"Mimi, what would make it so you can tell me how your contract would be fulfilled?

Ok... orders...
You're not allowed to eat any souls or money unless I specifically tell you it's ok, and you're never allowed to eat my soul. Not even part of it.
If there's something you want - besides souls, gold, or mana or other power things like that - then I want you to write it down on a list so I can see if I can get it for you. I want to make you happy and keep you happy.

By the way, when this contract is over... would you like to contract with me directly? I'd like one where we can agree to change the terms if we want.
Actually... Mimi, I'd like to contract you for a chance to negotiate a new contract after your current contract ends, with this contract ending when we either agree to a new contract or agree to not pursue a new contract."

>>259424
"Err... Simpler words, then.
I want to make up a new contract your current contract is over, but we can't do that while you have to do what I say

I want time to work out a new contract we'll both enjoy. So contract with me to decide on a new contract once your old one is over. Or decide not to make one."

Artemis 2010/11/24(Wed)01:11 No. 259427 ID: cf68aa
File 129058991377.png - (156.60KB , 700x700 , 154.png )

>>259421
Everything looks the same.. As for that coded message thing I'll bring it up when I actually get some things, I'm so short on supplies!

"So Mimi,when can you tell me how to fulfill your contract?"

"I can't say~"

"One more thing You're not allowed to eat any souls or money unless I specifically tell you it's ok, and you're never allowed to eat my soul. Not even part of it. If there's something you want - besides souls, gold, or mana or other power things like that - then I want you to write it down on a list so I can see if I can get it for you."

""aww... Okay Master."

"Uhm..Also is it possible for us to make a new contract when this one is over?"

"You're my Master so when this one is done simply call my name and we can start on a new one~"

>>259427
Look at her bag. How big is it now? Could she fit her head through it?

Also, reach your and in and gently feel the sides
"So, Mimi, how does this feel? Good or bad?
Also, if I used the key to let you out of the chest then what would happen? Would your bag still work? Would you be able to leave the room?"

>>259428
"Oh, another order: Never let the contract affect your feelings towards me.

So, can you tell me the names of your former masters?"

Ok I think that's enough fun here, we should get over to Morgan. We have talking and shopping and flirting to do.

Give Mimi a hug first though~

Artemis 2010/11/24(Wed)02:25 No. 259432 ID: cf68aa
File 129059431170.png - (123.29KB , 700x700 , 155.png )

>>259428
Hmm? Okay...

Artemis places his hand in the bag and rubs the sides.
Mimi jumps up in surprise and covers her mouth

"M-master, p-please don't put your hand in there w-without thinking about something."

>>259432
"Hmm? It wasn't sudden like before so it doesn't hurt you right? Does it feel bad? Is it rubbing your feet or something?"

>>259432
"Oh! I'm sorry! Er... Why? Did that hurt? Or was it... err... intimate?"
Give her a hug!
"Ah, sorry!"
"Er... Should I be leaving now? Or would you be ok with talking some more?"

Say you are sorry and ask her why you can't put your hands in there without asking. Once she has said her piece then hug her

Grin slightly, say "Of Course" and go get ready for the party.

Apologize and say you won't do it again unless she asks.

Artemis 2010/11/24(Wed)14:11 No. 259520 ID: cf68aa
File 129063666615.png - (172.77KB , 700x700 , 156.png )

Aaah! why do you guys keep telling me to do these things!? You knew that was gonna happen didn't you!?

"Sorry Mimi! I didn't mean to do that!"

"I-It's okay Master, it wasn't bad..."

"Uhm... I.. I'm gonna go to the store.. Just write me a note if you need me to get you anything."

"Okay Master, I'll be here."

Artemis pats her head and leaves. He heads over to Morgan's shop and sees her dusting the shelves. She turns to him.

"Hi Artemis."

Tell her hi and that she looks good. Go onto to explain you've had a heck of a day and what happened, then that you need some help with something but it's going to take a while to explain. So maybe if she wants to you can sit and be comfortable, maybe share a drink while you commence exposition.

>>259520
"Hello, Morgan. That's a lovely dress, and you see how great you look when you take care of yourself?"

>>259531
Uh oh she got all gussied up. Not good. This means she was thinking about this all afternoon.
Be REALLY REALLY diplomatic about this. And make sure you don't ditch her again.

Remember Artemis, Saisai saved your ass today and that should be the reason you are headed to the party. Just give Morgan this afternoon instead of the evening, be back around it getting dark and you should be good

>>259578
Sounds good. Saisai is failling into comrade/bro tier, Morgan is loveydovey, and Mimi is and always will be :3.

Artemis 2010/11/24(Wed)17:21 No. 259583 ID: cf68aa
File 129064807266.png - (116.78KB , 700x700 , 157.png )

"Uhm.. Hey Morgan. That's a n-nice dress, see how great you look when you take care of yourself?"

"Huh?"

"N-no! What I mean is...! Uhm...."

Artemis hears a soft tapping sound behind him
"Oh no!"
He looks outside to see it raining

What? The weather was fin til just a little while ago.

Morgan sighs

Explain that you need her help with something, and ask if she can keep a secret.

>>259583
"Don't worry about the rain, I wanted to talk with you and I need your help with something. I need to talk about what happened today, and then I'm going to trust you with my most important secrets... is that ok?"

Then talk about in this order: what happened this morning with the captain and Saisai; the fact that she invited you to a party and due to ass saving you need to attend; then about us and your powers and gender issues. Then the fact that you need to actually look like a girl at the party as a disguise and you have no clue how.

>>259583
Offer her a hug
"S-sorry, I'm no good with words like this. I just meant that you look even better than your normal beauty."

>>259589
Everything is better with hugs!

>>259583
tell her that going out is not so much as important than being with her

Artemis 2010/11/24(Wed)19:09 No. 259631 ID: cf68aa
File 129065454934.png - (252.63KB , 700x700 , 158.png )

"S-sorry, I'm no good with words like this. I just meant that you look uhm... Better then normal?"

THIS IS NOT GOING WELL.

"Uhm, nevermind. Morgan, I know we just met but I really need someone I can like, trust and stuff.. I have a big secret and I need to not let anyone... Man this is hard to explain."

"It's okay Artemis, take your time."

"Sigh... Okay. I can turn into a girl."

"...."

"And I need to get a dress to go to a party so that way no one will know who I am."

"... I see. Come with me."

She takes Artemis to the back of the store. After some walking they enter a walk in closet.

One Costume Change Later
"I like it."

"..... Uhm, thanks Morgan."

This is very awkward and uncomfortable.

>>259631
Ok, now [Gender Change].

"Thank you, Morgan. You've helped me so much I don't even know how to begin paying you back... Err... I hope my gender issues don't put you off; I need to keep it a secret because I know how poorly people react to it, but I really like you and want to get to know you better so is it alright?"

If she's ok with it, then hug her.

>>259631
Hug her!

Good job man. She's smiling a bit, I think you found someone who likes the gender change thing. I think you found yourself a close friend or something else depending. Hang out with her more if you can before you leave, maybe bring back some left overs from the party for her.

>>259631
[Gender Change]
Ok you really need to learn how to talk as a guy, this is ludicrous. Get over to her and do some damage control.

First off, she likes you and you are repeatedly letting her down. Plus there is the changing thing, but I'm not sure it's the shyness or the gender that bothers her. Or neither if you're lucky.

"Sorry about this. I'm usually a guy but I'm a bit of a wimp like that. Like this I'm stronger and impulsive, it's good when I need to do things but it doesn't feel as honest. I'm still me either way though and I wanted to have a good time out with you today. And you do look really nice. But Saisai saved my life and all so I owe her big and this party is an important one time thing. Couldn't refuse."

"So... which do you like better so far? Shy guy or tough girl? I should learn to be more confident as a guy... or more feminine as a girl sometimes I guess."

>>259657
>>259657

[gender change]

see how it feels now...

Also, yes to damage control with Morgan

"a very big thank you for the help Morgan... and sorry for being so awkward at times, I spent alot more time studying than really meeting people as I grew up. And I must apologize for not doing you justice, because... wow... seriously, you look amazing."

Gender Change -10 Artemis 2010/11/24(Wed)22:13 No. 259706 ID: cf68aa
File 129066561783.png - (223.93KB , 700x700 , 159.png )

I AM NOT HUGGING ANYONE DARN IT!

Artemis shifts genders, filling out the dress properly.

"Thank you, Morgan. You've helped me so much I don't even know how to begin paying you back... Err... I hope my gender issues don't put you off; I need to keep it a secret because I know how poorly people react to it, but I really like you and want to get to know you better so is it alright?"

She mumbles something under her breath and nods.

"I wanted to have a good time out with you today. And you do look really nice. But Saisai saved my life and all so I owe her big and this party is an important one time thing. Couldn't refuse."

"It's okay.."

"So... which do you think is best? Shy guy or tough girl? I should learn to be more confident as a guy... or more feminine as a girl sometimes I guess."

"i.... Yeah..."

>>259706
You're losing her! Quick!
"Err... would you like to go get lunch? I'm kinda hungry, I just hopt you don't mind going to lunch with another girl on a date."

Ok try to make eye contact with her. "I owe you even more now, I promise I'll make it up to you. I probably shouldn't go to the castle like this I'll just change when I leave. Help me with undoing the back here?"

Then fold up your clothes nicely and put them in your bag. You can change when Saisai leads you from the castle.

Artemis 2010/11/25(Thu)02:50 No. 259722 ID: cf68aa
File 129068222613.png - (183.94KB , 700x700 , 160.png )

"Err... would you like to go get lunch? I'm kinda hungry, I just hope you don't mind going to lunch with another girl on a date."

Wait, what?

"N-no... You're still you.."

Aaaah! Darn it Guardians! Stop that!

"Sigh... I should change back first. Can you help me take this off."

"!! O-okay.."
It seems to take her longer to take it off then it did putting it on. She undoes the zipper on the back and leave the room as Artemis changes back into his mage gear

Artemis 2010/11/25(Thu)02:50 No. 259723 ID: cf68aa
File 129068224950.png - (192.39KB , 700x700 , 161.png )

The go across town to a local diner.
It's still raining lightly outside and when they enter the store Morgan's hair has returned to it's natural tangled state.

"...."

>>259723
Reach into Mimi's bag to pull out a comb or a brush, and straighten out her hair while you wait for a table.
Oh, and what we just did is FAR from 'messing you up'~

Ask her what hobbies she has, and what her family is like.

"Don't worry about the hair, it can't be helped. Plus it looks kinda cute on you."

Welp, either you can talk about you, or you can get her to talk about herself. You can talk about what happened today to start things off, and talk about your childhood and home and family, and from there get her to talk about hers. Pretty basic stuff that neither of you are normally good at I think.

Oh and keep an eye on the time.

DAMN! Should have cast 'protect' to keep the rain away! Keep that in mind for the return trip.

How did Morgan get into the potions business anyway?

smile and laugh a little bit, tell her sorry, but she just looks too cute and you can't help it.

I definitely agree with chatting her up, try to find out more about her background, share some of your own. And I dunno, the unkempt look looks decent on her it seems, but offer to comb it anyways.

What, you didn't even offer her your huge, probably rain-blocking hat?

Get a comb out from Mimi's bag and offer it to her.
"Gosh, I'm really sorry, Morgan, I feel like I'm kinda throwing all these things at you out of nowhere. I get really nervous sometimes. You're a really fantastic lady, and I really want to get to know you."

Once she has combed her hair, pull a chair out for her at a table to show you're a gentleman/lady with manners. Sometimes.

Artemis 2010/11/25(Thu)13:49 No. 259769 ID: cf68aa
File 129072177136.png - (227.87KB , 700x700 , 162.png )

>>259767
Oh. Oh....
I'm a bad person huh....?
Gotta fix this..

"Don't worry about the hair, it can't be helped. Plus it looks kinda cute on you."

She blushes.

"Th-thank you..."

They take a seat in the diner and chat. She tells Artemis how she came to be a potion maker, how she liked tinkering with magical potions to see what effect they have. She says she's been running her store since she was 14 and her best invention has been her Love Potions.
Artemis in turn explains her story and how she'd been training for years.
Morgan listens quietly as she slowly eats through her food.

It starts getting dark outside.

>>259769
Watch the time!

We need to get Saisai a gift before we go! But don't just rush out. Make sure you say goodbye properly to Morgan, including saying:

"I had a good time. Hope we can do this again!"

>>259776
What, don't we walk her home? It might seem rude to just abandon her here.

should we maybe see what is going on in the background? Oh yeah, give her our rain blocking hat before you leave

>>259769
Well, that's your signal. You need to finish up and pay for both of your meals, get something for leftovers if you need, and walk her home.

Oh and there's Ion. Why don't you ask him a favor? "Can you give that poor girl a break today?" It'll win you niceguy points all around.

>>259769
Tell her you need to get going, but you'll bring her home before leaving.
Then put your hat on her head and walk her home.

Cover her with your hat and then rush quickly to your house. Also when you get to your house leavethe girl in the room for a minute and say you need to get cleaned up first. Put a note in Mimi's box to watch the girl and then come back in and take her out.

Once you are done with the lunch then get home and ask MiMiwhat she saw. Also while you are at home witht he girl leave your coat in the room. This will be a test to see if Morgan is all good or if there is something more sinister going on.

Oh, and when you drop her off either give her a hug or a kiss on the cheek. Thank her for a good time, and apologize for not having more time to spend.

after that... OMG gotta run gotta run! Saisai seems to like things for enhancing her combat and movement, we should think of something on that level.

>>259811
A hug, I think.

As for Saisai, I think you should swing by that shop where you got the bangles and see if they have anything that could completely hide "deformities" so somebody would look like a perfectly normal human. The best part is that you don't have to pay the entire price; just putting down a commission fee and saying you'll go pick it up is enough of a gift.

OH! When you leave Morgan's place I want you to reach into your bag and try to pull out "A second copy of Mimi's contract". That should signal her to make a copy.

>>259819
No, definite no to the contract thing. That's a DEMONIC contract. It could create a unsigned one waiting for someone to touch it, sign it, or some kinda crap to activate it for them. We might end up with a way to unwittingly bind people to us.

>>259819
I see what you did there.
Our guy isn't gonna stick his hand in again since we 'tricked' him to do it twice already.
Look in the last thread for instructions on how to use the pouch.

>>259824
Reaching for something that isn't there shouldn't have the same effect as reaching for nothing. And besides we had no clue before the first time, and still weren't sure on the second time. I thought he basically was tickling her feet... wait does she even have feet? We must test this later!

Oh and let's not mess with contracts right now, not worth the risk or hassle.

>>259780

>>259820
Err... That's not how these things work. The contract is formed when a demon accepts an agreement; the material representation is symbolic of that.
Transcribing it doesn't create another contract, Mimi's name is on it, and Demons can't be under conflicting contracts.

Also, I'm not messing with contracts right now; we don't have time for that kind of thing right now.

Suggestion 2010/11/25(Thu)22:37 No. 259870 ID: cf68aa
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They chat for a bit longer when someone enters the diner.

"!! Cheryl! ABEO!"

With a flash Priest Ion is gone.

>"Nooo! Master Ion! D:"

Cheryl runs out of the diner. Artemis sighs and pays for their bill. He walks her back to her shop and thanks her again for all the help.

"I had a good time. Hope we can do this again."

"M-me too... Have fun Artemis.."

Artemis waves bye and leaves. She goes to a nearby store and purchases something for Saisai then hurries back to the castle. When she gets to her room she finds a note on her door telling her where the party is and when. It's only a few minutes from that time so she quickly changes and hurries off. The party seems to have taken over a large room in the castle, there are many people inside all chatting and eating small snacks.

I can't find Saisai anywhere....

>>259870
Look for people wearing hats. She will probably be one of them, assuming she's not hiding away someplace.
Ask somebody by the snacks if they know where she is.

Just grab some snacks and wander around, one of you will find the other. Better off if you don't try to mingle, but keep an ear open for anything interesting. And if you are approached by a guy... well you really need to keep your disguise up so you need to act differently than either normal you. Acting bland and boring should do the job, and keep you from being memorable as well. If you are asked your name tell them Emmy. Easy enough to remember, sounds like the end of your name a bit.

Walk around the room and see if you can pick up on any conversations regarding Gerald's recent death/outing. See if anyone is avoiding you or watching you. Keep an eye out for Saisai too.

Suggestion 2010/11/26(Fri)23:18 No. 260016 ID: cf68aa
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Someone walks up to Artemis

"Hey there. May I get you a drink?"

"No."

"Ah, something to eat?"

"No."

"... so, are you from around here?"

"No."

"Oh? Where are you from?"

"No."

"....... I'll see you around then."
The person leaves

Ugh... Where the heck is that girl?

>>260016
Is that her over there? With the cat-ear shaped hat?
Or perhaps that's somebody who would know where she is?

Walk over and ask!

Unfortunately that last exchange you had was a bit unusual in it's obtuseness. Try to brush people off a bit more naturally. As for the cat-ear shaped hat, I agree go check.

yeah, really, the answer is not 'no' to everything just because you want to get moving. Try excuse making, such as "Oh sorry, I think I see my friend over there". Or considering this IS Saisai's party, asking where to find her.

GP:60 Artemis 2010/11/27(Sat)22:36 No. 260321 ID: cf68aa
File 129092619646.png - (210.62KB , 700x700 , 165.png )

Cat shaped hat?

Artemis walks up to that person and taps them on the shoulder. They turn around

Saisai
"Oh, Artemis. Glad you could make it. I was worried you wouldn't come."

bow slightly

"Fear not, I said I would come, and it truly is my honor. We both earned our spot that day."

>>260321
"Of course, I wouldn't miss it. For a fellow knight who stood with me in a deadly situation? Attending a party is nothing." Smiles.

"So, would you mind giving me a little background on the party? I don't know anyone here..."

>>260321
"You really came through for me when it mattered. This is the least I could do.
Err... You know this amulet can't really record things, right?"
What did you get her, by the way?

>>260321
"Of course I would be here, we are friends aren't we"

Artemis 2010/11/27(Sat)23:29 No. 260327 ID: cf68aa
File 129092936481.png - (118.85KB , 700x700 , 166.png )

"Of course, I wouldn't miss it. For a fellow knight who stood with me in a deadly situation? Attending a party is nothing."

Artemis smiles.

"So who's at the party? Is this all family?"

"Maybe 6 or 7. The rest are complete strangers."

"Huh?"

"Well my family never really expected me to pass the knight test, yet I was the only one who did. They only let me take the test so I wouldn't 'whine about it' anymore. I passed and now they're worried I'll be killed if they find out my heritage or worse, shame the family."

"I..."

"The only person in here I know besides my family is my boyfriend."

A moment of awkward silence passes between them.

Artemis 2010/11/27(Sat)23:29 No. 260328 ID: cf68aa
File 129092938885.png - (207.31KB , 700x700 , 167.png )

"Hey, you wanna go somewhere more private? I don't like being around a lot of people."

>>260328
Hey, why not? If she doesn't know many people here, and you don't know many people here, and it doesn't seem like a particularly awesome place to hang out... why stay?

>>260328
"Ah, of course. Lead the way!
So, tell me about this boyfriend of yours! Did he start as a friend of the family?"

Again, what did you get her?

Why not? Let's talk with her more. Get to know her. She needs a 'bro', a close friend she can count on and be natural with. And so do you.

Let's rev up this bromance.

Artemis 2010/11/28(Sun)00:57 No. 260338 ID: cf68aa
File 129093464653.png - (305.20KB , 700x700 , 168.png )

"Ah, of course. Lead the way! So, tell me about this boyfriend of yours! Did he start as a friend of the family?"

She remains silent until they walk outside. She leans against the balcony.

"my boyfriend is another knight. He's known my family for many years. He's okay I suppose. My family could have found a worse person to be my husband."

>>260338
Frown "An arranged marriage? That's disheartening. You should be able to choose somebody who makes you happy; god knows you'd have your pick.
Er... He knows about your quirk, right?"

Artemis! What did you get her?

>>260339
Yes, Artemis, what did you get her?

Artemis 2010/11/28(Sun)02:19 No. 260347 ID: cf68aa
File 12909395987.png - (305.21KB , 700x700 , 169.png )

I'm not telling~

"An arranged marriage? That's disheartening. You should be able to choose somebody who makes you happy; god knows you'd have your pick. Er... He knows about your quirk, right?"

"Of course h-Wait, did you just try to flirt with me?"

"What!? N-no!"

"Yes you did."

>>260347
"Sorry. No hard feelings?"

>>260347
"Ah! Sorry! It was an accident! I don't have much experience around people and I screw up some times and I completely didn't mean to flirt with you- Ah! Not to say that I'd be against the idea- ACK!"

Pause! Take a breath!

"Ok, let me try that again... You're an amazing woman. Your skill in combat is phenomenal, you have impressive strength of will, and just a few hours ago you literally saved my life. I deeply respect you, and I want to help make your life happier."

Ask if you're in trouble.

>>260347
"I was raised in an out of the way farm. I didn't have many opportunities to speak with people that weren't family."

"I grew up away from alot of people, so don't mind me if I try flirting occasionally, its mostly harmless... and its an oddly new experience for me"

Artemis 2010/11/28(Sun)17:01 No. 260490 ID: cf68aa
File 129099250978.png - (338.35KB , 700x700 , 170.png )

"I was raised in an out of the way farm. I didn't have many opportunities to speak with people that weren't family.."

She turns around.

"You really gotta stop with that. You're going to give people the wrong idea."

"sorry."

"Being seen flirting with someone who's engaged would be very bad wouldn't it? Be more careful."

"So, if being a knight everything you wanted it to be? what does your family think? and well.... thanks again for saving my life"

>>260490
Walk over and lean on the railing next to her.
"Ah, sorry if I made you uncomfortable.
So, who is he?"

>>260490
Pfft, 'very bad', she says. Being seen flirting with someone who's engaged is not a big deal unless their significant other is ridiculously possessive or you're pressing your attentions somewhere quite unwanted.

Artemis 2010/11/28(Sun)18:43 No. 260520 ID: cf68aa
File 12909985955.png - (257.21KB , 700x700 , 171.png )

Artemis walks over to her and leans on the railings.

"Sorry if I made you uncomfortable."

"It's okay."

"So how do you like being a knight so far? Pretty great huh?"

"Honestly I only joined for my own purposes. But now... I like it. The people are nice. And I have a great teammate."

>>260520
Jokingly say "Yeah, Kacey's a pretty cool guy."

>>260521
this

>>260521
Yep yep.

Feel free to give her the thing you got her now.