Kaktus 2014/05/22(Thu)14:35 No. 575370 ID: 65a774
File 140079452534.png - (6.49KB , 900x450 , 2.png )

>Choose your species and gender! (All gender options are available.)

Human – Now in dark flavor. Probably tastes like chocolate.
Lizard – Delicious tails… probably tastes like strawberry… or maybe vanilla.
Mantis – GIANT KILLER BUGS! RUN AWAY!! Tastes like victory. Sweet, sweet victory.

Insert Here we go again.

...Oh dang it.
That human female is just too potentially awesome to ignore.

>>575371
Seriously. Not only do we get a sword, but we have a NICE HAT.

Mantis male for the sake of variety and dat uniform.

I vote The human female...but in delicious chocolate

male mantis.

I mean we've done a female lizard, a female mantis, a female human, a male lizard, and a male human all in that order. The male mantis is the only thing we have yet to play as.

My vote for the mantis guy, mostly 'cause we've never chosen one before, and partly 'cause of that sweet outfit.

"Numb?" I was expecting "Rune" since the icon filename for the Spellswords contained that and we're now across the Great Sea. Guess there's more to come to be excited about.

Male Mantis! We shall have man eggs!

Or we could play some weird gender not on the scale...or a transsexual, But That would be kinda have to depend of the setting if it would work or not,

MANTIS MANNNNNNN

Gotta agree with Male Mantis. We must play as all gender/race combinations.

Wait a minute these are all from the Major Arcana stained glass windows!

The male human is Strength, female lizard is The Hermit, male lizard is The Star, female lizard is The Chariot, male mantis miiiiight be The Heirophant but his clothing doesn't quite match, female mantis could be the one falling in The Tower.

Considering the male mantis appears to be some military man he is probably NOT The Heirophant. So he's either the Sun, Moon, or Judgement- the three remaining tarot cards that could correspond to people. The last one is The World, which is obviously not going to be a person.

Kaktus 2014/05/22(Thu)16:24 No. 575392 ID: 65a774
File 140080109430.png - (5.59KB , 900x450 , 3.png )

>Mantis male for the sake of variety and dat uniform.
>male mantis.
>My vote for the mantis guy, mostly 'cause we've never chosen one before, and partly 'cause of that sweet outfit.
>Male Mantis! We shall have man eggs!
>MANTIS MANNNNNNN
>Gotta agree with Male Mantis. We must play as all gender/race combinations.

You have chosen: MANTIS MALE!

You are a strapping young mantis male, currently educating yourself to become a commander of the Amun Empire Army! Too bad the academy has a strict policy of the proper design of uniforms. Doesn’t mean you can change some of the details though!

Please choose a color scheme for your antenna decoration, direction of antennas and, if you’re so inclined, if you want to wear the official Amun military hat of hatines.
You can also choose to change your abdomen cover and some colors of your current uniform. (As long as you wear Amus’ official blue and yellow.)

Insert Pimp my Mantis_

>>575392
I like the default look, honestly.

That hat unfortunately does not look as good on mantises. There's a sentence I never thought I'd say.

Everything's fine the way it is.

Kaktus 2014/05/22(Thu)18:15 No. 575409 ID: 65a774
File 140080771193.png - (3.61KB , 900x450 , 4.png )

>I like the default look, honestly.
Gentlemen, behold! The same look as in the start of the thread!

Now, choose which aspect that defines you the most. (This will determine personality.)

- Courage! – You’re brave, confident and fearless.
- Wisdom! – You’re intelligent, rational and well spoken.
- Power! – Err… that’s not a… wait, let me… hmm… “You’re strong, silent and sarcastic.” …I guess?

And while you’re at it, would you kindly give this lonely Male Mantis a fitting name?

>>575409
A courageous, yet saucy male mantis. Lady mantises will be falling over each other to make him their harem's number 1.

As for a name, how about Marc?

Wisdom!

Also he shall be Cthblabrrrch, with his pronounceable name as Rupert!

I choose wisdom. Intelligence and rationality are fine traits for one who aspires to be a military commander, and being well spoken will impress a higher class of lady (or gentleman.)

And for a name? Well, he looks like a Jean to me.

Courage.

Since we're doing things differently, let's go with power.

Wisdom and intelligence didn't serve us well at the end, remember? Overthinking doesn't pay.

>sarcastic
I thought that came standard issue.

Wisdom is a good trait for a commander.

POWERRRRRRRR

Seriously though, That's my vote

Wisdom!

Daithí. (Because mantises need Gaelic names).

Wisdom.... No beard or something... like... that...

He is clearly not an excenric who dyes his mandibles to look like a bismarkmoustache or something...

Why? Why must i beardify everything?

Name: leopold

Oh oh oh! Let's have some sort of toupee, Given mantis don't seem capable of growing hair~ Also I vote our name be something like...Alexander~

Wisdom would be perfect for our commander, even if power would be a close second.

>>575468
I'm not sure how good it would look, but I have to see this.

Kaktus 2014/05/23(Fri)08:43 No. 575476 ID: 65a774
File 140085982468.png - (15.78KB , 900x450 , 5.png )

>Why? Why must i beardify everything?
Remember, the first step is admitting you have a problem. The second is to be locked up in a mad house where you belong, beard lover!
>Let's have some sort of toupee, Given mantis don't seem capable of growing hair~
Welp, now I can’t get the idea of a mantis trying being a human out of my mind so… look forward to that NPC. Thanks a lot!

>I thought sarcasm came standard issue.
The sarcasm feat can be taken additional times for added effect.
>Wisdom!
Congratiulation! You’re smart! You’ve read a lot of books and aced every written test they have given you so far… *Cough* Dork *Cough*…

>Daithí.
[You have claimed a new king! Daithi “The Magician”.]

Father…
Now, now, son, stop fuzzing. You’ll want to look your best for tonight, don’t you?
You’ll have to excuse me for withholding my enthusiasm, but is this really necessary?
Daithi, my son, you know how important it is for us that you find a suitable wife, and what with you having such a controversial job there aren’t really a lot of them showing interest. Bah, why shouldn’t you have been interested in something a boy is supposed to be interests in… I mean, you got the head on you to become a scholar… or alchemist… but no, you had try and become something that women are supposed to be… *sigh* …Daithi, we’re just trying to do what’s best for the family.
Aren’t a holy matrimony supposed to symbolize love, not some cold calculated political and monetary gain with some fornication and offspring’s on the side?
Love? Ha! You’ve been reading to many books, son. Do you really think your mother and I have ever been in love? In fact, we could barely stand each other when we first met! No, you’ll just have to lay back and think of the Amus Empire.
It isn’t that Lucrais don’t really agree with me, it’s that she hate my guts. I’m pretty sure she wants to murder me or at least torture me. Also, she’s a total bitch.
Now, now, you’re exaggerating. You’ve barely met, after all. Now, get ready, we’re leaving within the hour.
Father, please…

Insert New Mission: Find a way to skip this forced “Date”!_

Hello, Daithi! Nice to meet ya. For better or for worse, your life just got more interesting.

Could I trouble you for the date, and your location? Our movements through time and space aren't always linear, and as we just met, we aren't sure where or when we are.

>The magician
What kind?

>you had try and become something that women are supposed to be
What's that? What are you that he disapproves of?

>holy matrimony supposed to symbolize love
It can, but that's hardly the only reason people hook up. Although your father's cynical view is slanted rather too far the other way. The truth is more in between.

So, could you fill us in on what's happening, and why your father thinks it's best to arrange this date for you?

Greetings, Daithi! Welcome to Team Teal! We're a collective of spirits/fragments of the old gods/gods/daemons/souls/voices/whatever-you-want-to-call-us come to guide those who's actions could have a great influence on the world. So congratulations, you're important! We'll do our best to keep you from harm and lead you to a better future in the coming troubles.

Now, we have a few questions for you so as to orient ourselves in time and place and get some basics about you and your situation so as best to guide you:

First, what is the date, preferably in the Serathian or Northland calendar? Also, if you can, tell us how long it is from now to both 23rd of the 3rd month of Thane’s season, year 3996 and the 12th of Eranos, 3995. Next, what is your location, and how far away are you from the point directly under the center of Aerathin's Belt?

Now for the personal questions: What is your sexual orientation? We want to clear that up right away so we don't steer you wrong or steer others to you that you aren't interested in. What is your favorite subject of study and your favorite book? What was the reason you wished to pursue a military career? What do you look for in someone you'd love to have as a romantic partner?

As for the situational questions: What do you know about Lucrais? Do you know if she's being forced at you by her family, the same as you are being forced at her? 'Cause if she is then she might have acted that way on your first meeting to try and torpedo things off the bat. You might find commonality in the fact you two are getting pushed together against your wills. It might be enough to suffer through this "date" until we can figure out a better way to get you out of a forced marriage.

And I'd say that it's good that a smart guy wants to become a military commander. Somebody has to be clever and think of the strategy and plan things. Too often it's those who have more brawns than brains who get in leadership.

>>575476
The Magician?! Now why is that his designation...? Looks like his father is The Heirophant.

[scan Cathal]

So, hello Daithi. You wouldn't happen to be living in a tower would you?

Kaktus 2014/05/23(Fri)12:09 No. 575496 ID: 65a774
File 140087217507.png - (16.56KB , 900x450 , 6.png )

>[scan Cathal]
[“The Hierophant” is currently not claimed! You do not have any pawn slot yet! Please level up your character before trying to claim a new pawn!]

>Greetings, Daithi!
…I’m hearing voices again, father…
…did you forget to take your medicine this morning?
No, I’m pretty sure I took it as always.
Hmm… maybe you need a bigger dosage? Well, if it continues we’ll have to speak with the doctor again and see what he says, but for now just ignore them.
Does this-
No, you’re still going to that dinner.

>We're a collective of spirits/fragments of the old gods/gods/daemons/souls/voices/whatever-you-want-to-call-us come to guide those whose actions could have a great influence on the world.
Or you’re just a figment of my twisted mind playing tricks on me. Which seems more likely, hmm?
>First, what is the date, preferably in the Serathian or Northland calendar?
Err… wait, why would… um… I’ll need to check up on those calendars to be sure but… I don’t really have the time right now, alright?
>Next, what is your location, and how far away are you from the point directly under the center of Aerathin's Belt?
…I’m in the middle of the Amun Empire, in the city of Stone Heaven. Aerathin's Belt? Well, there’s an old landmark right outside the city which is supposed to be right under it, why?
>You wouldn't happen to be living in a tower would you?
…noo? I’m living in the Commander Academy… which is located in an old castle… so… um… well, it got towers but I’m not living in one…

>The magician? What kind?
Magician? Me? I don’t know any magic… what with all these weird questions? Have I gone completely nuts?
>What's that? What are you that he disapproves of?
I’m a commander apprentice. Most mantises sees any kind of leadership role as solely in the female domain, as we male are supposable too “Emotional” and “Cowardly” to be any good at it. In fact, I’m the only male mantis in the whole school… um… I’m the first male mantis they’ve ever accepted, even. The only reason I had a chance, or that there even is a male mantis dorm here, is because some of the lizards complained about something called equality and stuff…
>So, could you fill us in on what's happening, and why your father thinks it's best to arrange this date for you?
It’s not my father, he’s just a doormat. It’s my mother. She wants me to be sold off to some rich family for money and contacts… Of course, because I choose something most people doesn’t agree with its kind of hard to find anyone willing to buy…

>Now for the personal questions: What is your sexual orientation? What do you look for in someone you'd love to have as a romantic partner?
I… w-what? That’s a b-bit… personal, isn’t it!? I’m not telling you that!
>What is your favorite subject of study and your favorite book? What was the reason you wished to pursue a military career?
I’m a fan of history… military history, in fact. That’s why I sought out this career in the first place…
>What do you know about Lucrais?
She a quick-tempered, shortsighted, senseless hag who hates me like the intensity of forty suns.
>Do you know if she's being forced at you by her family, the same as you are being forced at her?
Of course she is. That’s the way it goes… no one gets to marry who they want and everyone is miserable. But no, that’s not the reason why she hates me… she hated me before that but… I don’t know why.

>I'd say that it's good that a smart guy wants to become a military commander. Somebody has to be clever and think of the strategy and plan things. Too often it's those who have more brawns than brains who get in leadership.
Well, the only reason they even gave me a chance here was because of my good grades and acing the application test. Hopefully it will be enough to show these simpletons that I can be as good at commanding as any of those mantis ladies.

Now, while it’s been fun answering weird question put forward by my own insanity, I really need to find a way out of this date… Hmm… I wonder if I can convince my father to call it off… or… maybe I can pretend to be sick? …or I can just try and run off for a while… just long enough to miss the dinner… of course, these are all just short time solutions… I need to find a way to call off this whole wedding thing… hmm… maybe I can scare them away, make sure they won’t buy me? Hmm…

Insert Falsify the expiration date! That will ensure they won’t buy him! I mean, who would buy a husband covered in mold?_

>>575496
Haha wow it's The High Priestess. That mantis in white is Lucrais, isn't it? Why is one of her eyes golden? Is it fake? [scan the newcomers]

Anyway we asked about the Belt and the date because fairly soon a beam of light is going to shine from its middle and an "angel" will descend down it- a traveler from another world, which hopefully will assist us in... well, let's wait before dropping THAT bombshell on you. Anyway, it is an important event, so we need to know how long we have to prepare.

As for the date, why don't you go talk to Lucrais, maybe provoke her a little and cause a scene? If you BOTH want to call it off then it probably won't happen. If you have the courage, you could just straight up ask her why she's always hated you.

You could always start talking to us out loud and try and show him that you need time to yourself because your medicine seems to not be working.

Also we are supernatural, not your standard mental illness gone wrong, except alot of questions about gender, sex, and all sorts of other tomfoolery.

Also the Lizards complained because they hold that the Individual should be able to claim their rights, as a result they don't care if you are male or female so long as you get the job done and to hold otherwise is just being sexist, you'll do people proud and we will be proud of you.

Well, if we are just headvoices, why bother hiding things from us, after all, We are you...Anyway...We should be the best commander ever, To prove them ladies wrong!

Something red appeared either behind that potted plant or on the tapestry near the newcomers. Is it a bug or something?

Here's an idea; pull a Hamlet. There is no greater way to scare someone off than revealing you are insane. Hearing voices only makes it easier. Just tell your dad about some of the heavier or more non-sequitur things we're saying loudly enough for the others to overhear. What are they talking about, by the way?

So yeah, we're actually a bunch of teal-colored squid-like things that are floating around your head. Look in a mirror if you want to see. You might want to keep a mirror around too; it helps you see daemons. There's a good chance you'll be fighting them in the near future. You say you've been hearing voices your entire life? I think Jericho said something similar.

Tell me, what do you know about spellswords and the serath desert? And while your at it, how good at military strategy are you?

Kaktus 2014/05/23(Fri)14:46 No. 575521 ID: 65a774
File 140088158655.png - (16.55KB , 900x450 , 7.png )

>[scan the newcomers]
[“The High Priestess” is currently unclaimed!]
[Neutral Creature (Friendly): Loyal Attendant.]
[Neutral Creature (Neutral): Nurse.]

>Well, if we are just headvoices, why bother hiding things from us, after all, We are you...
Because I don’t like brining stuff like that up all the time… and if you actually aren’t me…
>Haha wow it's The High Priestess.
Huh… there’s no priestess around here? Do you mean dad? He’s a Vicar, not a priest.
>That mantis in white is Lucrais, isn't it? Why is one of her eyes golden? Is it fake?
…that’s my mom… and I admit, I don’t know who is actually worse at the moment… mom is… a bit moody right now. As for her eye… well, she used to be a Commander herself and lost the eye in battle. That’s a fake eye… made out of gold…

>Anyway we asked about the Belt and the date because fairly soon a beam of light is going to shine from its middle and an "angel" will descend down it…
>We're actually a bunch of teal-colored squid-like things that are floating around your head.
>Daemons!
…yeah, not helping the whole “Crazy” idea…
>Tell me, what do you know about spellswords and the serath desert?
Err… some, yes? Why? Hmm… I think I got a book or two on those subjects somewhere…
>And while you’re at it, how good at military strategy are you?
Good enough not to get booted out of here. My teacher says my theories are great but the execution still needs a lot of work so… I’m still a student, right?

>If you have the courage, you could just straight up ask her why she's always hated you.
What!? Are you insane!? She’ll bite my head off!
>Here's an idea… there is no greater way to scare someone off than revealing you are insane.
Yeah, that… the kind of crazy needed for them to call off the wedding is probably enough to get me permanently expelled from the school.

>What are they talking about, by the way?
What is taking him so long!? We’re going to be late!
Calm down, Ceana, honey, he’s just a bit nervous.
Well, go kick him in the abdomen and tell him to hurry up then, Cathal.
Err… we still got an hour before we are set to arrive, madam, there is still plenty of time.
*Hmfp!* Either way, get that good for nothing son of my ready so we can sell him off already! …and someone bring me a pickle! Right now!
Right away, my lady!

Insert Why is it always pickles?_

Your mother is one heck of a bitch isn't she.

>>575521
Did your fiancee try to get into this school? Maybe its jealousy.

heh, know where a mirror is kiddo? Bring a hand mirror if you can swing it, and show people your reflection in it to them, then ask if anything is strange.

Also don't be specisist, females only eat your heads in times of extreme famine, as another Mantid was quite sure to tell us repeatedly.

Hmm. High Priestess represents wisdom and mystical vision... uh... okay I have no idea how the card fits Ceana. I think we need to find more of the major arcana to get a bigger sample size for determining if it's all inverted meanings or if the card interpretations don't apply to the characters.

>>575521
Hang on, is your mother pregnant? She has food cravings and irritability... Or is she always like that? Oh, you should know that the Serathians are in the midst of developing a way to attach new bodyparts to people. So she could eventually get replacements for her eye and hand.

Why don't you just sneak off for a half hour and tell us more about your situation? What other family members do you have, what resources do you have access to?

Kaktus 2014/05/23(Fri)17:26 No. 575542 ID: 65a774
File 140089118494.png - (15.59KB , 900x450 , 8.png )

>Your mother is one heck of a bitch isn't she.
She’s just… grumpy thanks to her condition. Sure, she’s never had any real love for me, but she’s seems to be in even fouler mood than usual.
RAWR!!
Calm down, honeybun! Think about the little ones!
>Hang on, is your mother pregnant? She has food cravings and irritability...
Yes, yes she is. She’s rather far in, too…

>What other family members do you have.
I got three more fathers, though I’ve never really been close to them, mostly because Cathal raised me most of the time, and I got four brothers and a sister none of them really lives nearby anymore.
>what resources do you have access to?
Personally? Not much… I’m a so called “starving” student after all. My family, on the other hand, is… err… was rather rich…
>Also don't be specisist, females only eat your heads in times of extreme famine, as another Mantid was quite sure to tell us repeatedly.
I’m pretty sure she would bite my head off even if she wasn’t a mantis. She’s kind of scary.
>Did your fiancée try to get into this school? Maybe its jealousy.
Hmm… I don’t actually know… I do know that some people were kicked out when I was brought in as a last minute change but… I need more information to confirm that theory.

>Why don't you just sneak off for a half hour and tell us more about your situation?
I don’t know… mom would kill me when I came back but… if I’m gone long enough for them to head home again then maybe she’d calm down until tomorrow… or maybe she’ll just be more angry… anyway, how should I sneak out? We’re on the third floor and mom is standing right in front of the only door out of here.
>Heh, know where a mirror is kiddo? Bring a hand mirror if you can swing it, and show people your reflection in it to them and then ask if anything is strange.
Does this have something to do with the whole squid in the mirror thing you mentioned? …fine, I’ll go check in a mirror if it makes you happy…

…

…squids… teal squids… I… I… It’s the stress… it has to be… my medicine! Maybe I forgot to… this… no… no squids… this can’t be… It’s not real, IT’S NOT REAL!

Insert The cake?_

Don't panic. Just find someone you somewhat trust and ask them to verify what you are seeing. That way you get confirmation you aren't crazy and we're real.

Is that us...or something else?

*Wiggle in a little dance*

WE TOLD YOU WE WERE SQUIDS, BRO
WE TOLD YOU DOG

If you think that's bad, someone scrawled the words "DON'T TRUST HER" on the wall behind that bookcase, and I think there might be someone lurking outside the window. So no, you aren't insane; they really ARE out to get you.

Anyway, you look like you're going into shock, so lie down for a bit and we'll talk about something less horrific. Did you ever think it's possible your mother doesn't want you to suffer the same injuries that she got when she was a commander? That, plus money troubles and another kid on the way will defiantly make for a shitty attitude. Try to cut her just a little slack. You ought to talk to her about it later.

Now, let's think about this together for a minute. We need a way to get out of a marriage without getting out of school, with an optional objective of 'don't commit matricide'. Now, someone breaking into your room and writing on your walls might be enough to call off dinner if you can play it right, but like you said, that's a temporary solution. Whatever we do, it will likely require subversive action and a bit of planning.

Whether you want to keep us secret or not is up to you. You know the political landscape better than we do, but in most cases, it's wise to keep all your cards hidden, understand?

Just to make sure your not just 'seeing us' and you can feel us as well to make sure you can't avoid the feeling.

*Cyan Squid Beard pose is go!*

But yes it's generally better to calm down, don't panic and let your mind drift to something happy. We aren't malevolent beings after all and you are our new king.

>>575542
Calm down. The blue squids are real, even though you are apparently crazy. Stop hallucinating bloody writing on the walls this instant! If you want confirmation, find your doctor or someone else who won't freak out and get you thrown out of school or whatever, and show him a mirror.

Hey, is that someone in the window? Looks like one of our other choices for King. We saw him in the Strength stained glass window... along with a white mantis with red eyes. Sound familiar?
[scan that guy in the window.]

>I… w-what? That’s a b-bit… personal, isn’t it!?
Well, not if you think we're part of your own mind. Of course we aren't, but.

>It’s not real, IT’S NOT REAL!
...I'm afraid we are.

Look, do you want to be crazy? Wouldn't you rather be visited by people trying to help you, than worry about losing it again?

If you want proof, ask us about a subject you don't have a good background on. Not something like local history or politics that's context sensitive. But if you'd like us to ramble on about mathematics or philosophy or biology or literary theory or something you don't know anything about, we can, and then you can look it up and confirm.

After all, if we're you, we shouldn't be able to know things you don't, right?

Since you're denying what you're seeing there's no point in us telling you that what you're seeing is real. You'll have to show us to someone you trust to confirm you're not hallucinating. For now just take deep, even breaths and calm down.

You should know for if and when you do try to show us to others in the mirror that most people can't see us. Most often it's those who we could possibly speak to who can see us. Your best bet would be Cathal, but your mother likely could see us as well. Yes, they both have the potential for us to speak to them.

And if you're looking for a way to sneak out of here despite being on the third floor, how 'bout you ask the dude peeking in just outside your window. He must have gotten up there somehow, so maybe you can get out that way. He's also probably the same person who painted "don't trust her" on the wall behind those stacked bed frames, so we'd kinda like to ask him who "her" is.

But if you feel climbing across the side of a castle to escape dinner with Lucrais is more danger to life and limb than just going would be, then I have an argument for you not going you could give to Cathal. Tell him that since this marriage is going to go through whether you go to this dinner or not, it'd be better if you didn't because the more often you're near Lucrais is the more often that something could go horribly wrong. Something Like you cracking and sinking a salad fork in her eye, or having a nervous breakdown in the middle of the restaurant, stripping naked and throwing plates at the patrons. Honestly, the less time you're near Lucrais before the wedding day, the better.

You said your family was rather rich, so how did they lose their fortune, how recent was it, and how much would your marriage go towards restoring it? Maybe if we can find a way to pay off your mother a value equal or greater than your marriage would bring to the family you could negotiate your way out of it.

Here's a couple questions that'll give us a general idea of when we are: Daithi, is the Serath currently a desert or a jungle? And about how long does it take news from there to get here?

Out of curiosity, when did you first start hearing the voices you're taking medication for? What did they tell you, did what they tell you change over time and how, and what did they sound like? And when was the last time you heard them and what did they tell you then?

Take a deep breath and calm down. Panicking won't solve anything.

>>575557
Agreed *beard formation*

Kaktus 2014/05/24(Sat)08:32 No. 575603 ID: 65a774
File 140094554074.png - (15.70KB , 900x450 , 9.png )

>[scan that guy in the window.]
[“The Moon” belongs to Player White!]

>Don't panic. Take a deep breath and calm down. Panicking won't solve anything.
Yes… breathe… calm… ocean waves… singing birds… waterfall…
>If you think that's bad, someone scrawled the words "DON'T TRUST HER" on the wall behind that bookcase.
No…nono… stop it… it’s not real… the text is never real… and its several beds stacked on each other, not a bookcase…
>Stop hallucinating bloody writing on the walls this instant!
Everyone isn’t against… no one wants to murder you… I… I need some medicine…

>We aren't malevolent beings after all and you are our new king.
…wait, I’m your king? Does that mean I get to order you around or?
>If you want proof, ask us about a subject you don't have a good background on.
…um… you mentioned the Serath desert, right? …hmm… tell me… the name of the crown prince there.

>I think there might be someone lurking outside the window.
Wha- who would… wait…
Cedric? What the hell are you doing here!?
Well, your mom’s servants chased me away when I tried to come and ask you if you wanted to down a few ales with me, so I thought you might need saving from something boring.
…and you’re willing to help me so long as I buy the first ale?
Naturally~ Now, if you want to come with me, hurry, I need to put the ladder back before the groundskeeper found out I “borrowed” it again.
>We saw him in the Strength stained glass window... along with a white mantis with red eyes. Sound familiar?
...why would Cedric have a stained… never mind. Hmm… white mantis? I’ve never seen a white mantis before…
>Just find someone you somewhat trust and ask them to verify what you are seeing. That way you get confirmation you aren't crazy and we're real.
Err… can you do me a quick favor? Look in the mirror for me…
Oh, hey, they got you too? Hmm… squids? At least mine looks more like an angel.
…wait, what?
Started talking to me just a day or two ago… real weird… but at least I’m not crazy, eh? …um… why is one of them dancing and… are they making a beard?
Don’t ask me!

>Whether you want to keep us secret or not is up to you.
Yeah… telling people you hear voices aren’t the best course of action… even if you are… um… real…
>Did you ever think it's possible your mother doesn't want you to suffer the same injuries that she got when she was a commander?
Except, she… err… she helped me get into the school in the first place… without her… um…
>That, plus money troubles and another kid on the way will defiantly make for a shitty attitude. Try to cut her just a little slack. You ought to talk to her about it later.
She’s more grumpy then usual right now, sure, but she’s still my mother…
>I have an argument for you not going you could give to Cathal. Tell him that since this marriage is going to go through whether you go to this dinner or not, it'd be better if you didn't because the more often you're near Lucrais is the more often that something could go horribly wrong.
Except it was her family that invited our family to dinner. Her mother wants to negotiate with my mother while we interact with each other like the good little products that we are.

>You said your family was rather rich, so how did they lose their fortune, how recent were it, and how much would your marriage go towards restoring it?
Well, it’s a slow process… my mother was a famous commander when she was young and earned a fortune, while all my dads don’t really have any big income jobs so… several years after mom went into retirement the money started dwindle thanks to our spending habits. Marring away all her sons to rich and influential families will ensure that she doesn’t run out completely.
>Maybe if we can find a way to pay off your mother a value equal or greater than your marriage would bring to the family you could negotiate your way out of it.
Well, sure, but where are we supposed to find that kind of dosh? The only thing I can come up with is to find someone else to marry that I actually like, but what’s the chance of that happening?
>Daithi, is the Serath currently a desert or a jungle? And about how long does it take news from there to get here?
Um… it’s a desert? Why would it be a jungle? Oh, and it takes about two weeks to sail over the great sea… and two weeks more, give or take, for any traders to reach this city.
>Out of curiosity, when did you first start hearing the voices you're taking medication for?
I… can’t remember. Since forever?
>What did they tell you, did what they tell you change over time and how, and what did they sound like?
They sounded like people I know… not like you guys… you guys sounds like… a legion of voices, men and women, talking in unison. They generally told me that everyone is lying to me, hate me and want to see me dead and stuff like that… um… I’m rather paranoid, right?

*Knock*Knock*
Son? Are you ready? We really need to get going now…
Are you coming?
Wait, I might be able to talk my way out of this…
You’re not going to be able to sneak out if you stay and talk.
…you’re right… hmm… do I sneak out, ensuring that I escape the dinner but surly angering mother, or do I try to talk my way out... it’s riskier but if I do it right mom might just be disappointed instead of angry…

Insert What is worse, disappointment or anger?_

Well we don't know why we were born squids, we aren't one but many. Though it might be best to escape through the window, this sounds like a conversation you've had many a time but never been able to avoid.

Also of note, we are very easily amused.

Don't freak out, that would just proof the preconception about male mental frailness.

Easily amused explains the beard and the dancing.
As for those other voices, that sounds like you've got a wraith problem to me boyo! I'll let the others do the explaining of what they are though.
Personally...As tempting as sneaking out is...I'm looking at this situation and the trouble is, if we go, we burn yet more credit with Mother...Which is a resource that's scarce right now, in favor of our own sanity.
On the flipside, we're great talkers! We could probably help you smooth over whatever the trouble with Lucrais is, and whatnot, which would make a good situation out of a bad one...
And no offense to your friend but...His plan, while nice-sounding, I feel like it'd only delay the inevitable, and worsen it. Cover his getaway, it's not a bad idea, but let's save it for a REAL emergency, yanno?

>They generally told me that everyone is lying to me, hate me and want to see me dead and stuff like that… um… I’m rather paranoid, right?
Not your fault, really. Having those kinds of things rubbed in all the time without any recourse can have that effect.

>wait, I’m your king? Does that mean I get to order you around or?
It's kind of a chess reference. You're the piece we're supposed to protect.

But if there's something you'd like? Sure, ask and we'll do what we can to help.

>you mentioned the Serath desert, right? …hmm… tell me… the name of the crown prince there.
Well, assuming we're not too far off in time, that would be Eliraz Drah'kon, son of Sultan Leanah Drah'kon and Ethros, brother of Elizah and Eliros (they were triplets), and cousin and lover of Jericho Drah’kon the second.

Depending on when exactly this is- Leanah is a skeleton or dead-dead, Eliraz is alive or a ghoul, and Jer is a mummy or maybe-dead-dead, and Eliros was exiled and left to die in the desert for an attempted coup.

Also, Eliraz is a hermaphrodite, although I'm not sure if the books around here would verify that. He did present as a girl for a while when he was a child, so you might find conflicting records if you went far back enough?

Stay, and blame us.

(We should greet white, but first...)
[scan corruption:self]
[scan corruption:white]

Tell your dad exactly what's happening; The voices are incessant, you're seeing writing on the walls- even your reflection isn't as it should be. You'd honestly just like to stay in your room and wait for this to blow over. Be sure to add that you'd hate to make them reschedule, but you'd hate for it to end in disaster even worse.

Something tells me that putting up with your moms' anger might be slightly more tolerable than her snide derision, though. If that's the case, just bail with Cedric.

Kaktus 2014/05/24(Sat)11:24 No. 575617 ID: 65a774
File 140095585719.png - (16.86KB , 900x450 , 10.png )

>[scan corruption: self][scan corruption: white]
[Corruption at 0%.]

>We are very easily amused.
That would explain the beard and dance…
>It's kind of a chess reference. You're the piece we're supposed to protect.
Oh! Chess! So if I am taken you lose? Hmm… then we need to build a proper defense with pawns, don’t we?
>But if there's something you'd like? Sure, ask and we'll do what we can to help.
Well, for starters, get me out of this mess. Preferable with my head still on my shoulders.

>Well, assuming we're not too far off in time, that would be Eliraz Drah'kon, son of Sultan Leanah Drah'kon and Ethros, brother of Elizah and Eliros (they were triplets), and cousin and lover of Jericho Drah’kon the second.
Err… I’ll try to remember that…
>”Lots of information about the Serathian royal family”…
Really, I just wanted one name! …and you did kind of prove yourself with the mirror already!

>Personally...As tempting as sneaking out is...I'm looking at this situation and the trouble is, if we go, we burn yet more credit with Mother...Which is a resource that's scarce right now, in favor of our own sanity.
…I’ll try to talk my way out of this. I can’t risk mother wrath getting any worse.
I see… well, then I wish you best of luck, friend.
>And no offense to your friend but...His plan, while nice-sounding, I feel like it'd only delay the inevitable, and worsen it. Cover his getaway, it's not a bad idea, but let's save it for a REAL emergency, yanno?
Don’t worry about me, I just need to hurry getting the ladder back before the groundskeeper gets back. See you later, Dai.

>Tell your dad exactly what's happening;
Father… I… I’m not feeling so well…
Really? You’re not faking it to skip the dinner, are you?
>The voices are incessant, you're seeing writing on the walls- even your reflection isn't as it should be.
Hmm? It’s getting worse? …hmm… maybe it’s the stress and… your disagreement with lady Lucrais but… if it continues then tell me, please, and then we’ll need to see the doctor again. Alright, son?
Of course, father.
I’ll talk to your mother and see if I can postpone the dinner for a while… at least she’s calmed down a bit after she got that pickle…
Ma’am, message from the Baideal family. Lady Lucrais has taken ill and the dinner needs to be canceled.
What? Why did they wait to the last minute before informing us!?
There’s more… Lady Baideal wants to see you over lunch tomorrow, to discuss the negotiations.
Hmm… send a message back that I’ll see her over lunch, then.
Well, that’s that, I guess…
So, I’m fre-
No, you’re not. You need to lie down and rest, son. Attendant, stay here and make sure
Daithi stays in the dorm for the rest of the night.
Of course, sir. I’ll make sure he doesn’t leave, sir.
(Aw, man… I wanted to share those ales with Cedric…)
And that, as they say, is that. We’ll be taking our leave then, son. Just make sure you get plenty of rest and tell us if it gets any worse, alright?
Dai, dear, I’m sorry to have gotten you all exited for nothing. I know you have your disagreements with Lady Lucrais, but you have to understand, we’re only doing this for you. Now, give your mother a hug before we leave.

Insert Hugs for everyone!_

Hug your mother (no need to be rude or unkind of no reason) and retire to your room.

Looks like we did what we needed to to escape tonight's engagement, but it wasn't necessary. That's the problem with strategy- you can make missteps if you don't have all the information.

Ah well, call it a draw. Mission accomplished, at a cost.

So... what do you have to do in here, besides sleep?

>Really, I just wanted one name!
...I didn't even follow the family line further bag, just in case in turns out this is in the past relative to the last time we were in Serath!

Nuts. Sorry if we shouldn't have taken the cautious route; we're naturally paranoid.

It sounds like Lucrais wants out as much as you do. It might be wise for the two of you to coordinate your efforts to get the wedding called off. Hopefully you can tolerate each other long enough to succeed, you'll never have to put up with each other again.

>but you have to understand, we’re only doing this for you
... Does she actually believe that? Is she actually being serious right now?
She looks relatively calm, so if you want to explain the situation, now's the time.

Hug her, if you absolutely have to. Try not to retch.

>>575617
I think we can get Cedric back for you, unless it's too late.
[Message to player White: Hello there. Can you get Cedric to come back with that ladder? Daithi is free for the night. If it's too late that's fine. Oh, and have you heard of any Daemon activity yet?]

Oh, and I was mistaken about Cedric. He's not "Strength", that was a priest with an eyepatch and scar, who happened to have the same eye color and skin color as Cedric. Cedric is "The Moon", which is one of the windows we didn't see. Since you're confused about the windows I'll clear things up. We have other pieces in play, and one of them managed to get into a ruin with a bunch of traps and shit alongside stained glass windows depicting various people, some of which we knew but most of which were of people we had yet to meet. Turns out we're meeting all those people now. Interestingly, the window depicting The Magician did not have you in it- there was a black spot instead, that looked similar to an unfurled scroll crackling with black energy. We were told The Magician wasn't decided yet, but that's strange since all the other choices for king had cards associated with them already... except the female mantis choice, maybe. I wonder if we had picked the female mantis, they would've been The Magician? The Magician is a male card though.

The Moon represents confusion, fantasy, psychological conflict, things like that. I didn't get that impression from Cedric at all, so perhaps the card meanings are reversed.

>>575625
>... Does she actually believe that? Is she actually being serious right now?

It's probably because having money benefits the whole family.

Is she really doing this all for you? Considering that she must have pulled strings and thrown around money to secure your entrance to the Academy and your continuing attendance here, then perhaps she is, or at least believes she is. Maybe she believes she's doing the best she can to secure the future of a son who's not quite right in the head and chose a unpopular career path. Or she could be throwing you under the proverbial bus to better secure the future of the family and keep herself in the lifestyle she's accustomed to. Or it's a mix of all of these. We just can't say with what we know now. Better just go along and not antagonize her until we find out more.

Give your mother a hug - a genuine one -, and thank her for what she's done to get you into the Academy. And give your father a hug as well.

Ask if the attendant could let you visit the Academy library to pick out some things to read while you're resting. Otherwise your mind is going to wander to bad places and you won't be able to get to sleep. If they agree then you can pick out books to check what we've told you and convert the date to what we asked before.

I highly doubt that Lucrais actually took ill. It's most likely she faked it to get out of going to dinner. She probably wants to get out of marrying you as much if not more than you do. Considering that, she actually could be your best ally in finding a way to do that, if you could communicate with her without her getting hostile to you.

I'd suggest penning a letter to Lucrais, laying out that you don't want to marry her as much as she obviously doesn't want to marry you, proposing a temporary alliance to figure out a way to get out of this mess, and to arrange to meet outside the view of both your families to discuss this. You'd need a way to get the letter to her without her or your family possibly intercepting it. Perhaps send it via a third party.

>>575626
I think this is a bad idea. If Daithi does sneak out and the attendant checks on him at any point, or if somehow word gets back to Ceana from the pub that Daithi was there, then Ceana's gonna flip her lid. I'm envisioning bars being installed on his dorm room window afterwards, and that'll just be the start of it.

I'd say still send a message to White, but alter it to say that Daithi played the "crazy card" and is now stuck with the family attendant watching over him so he gets his rest.

Ceana's golden prosthesis swapping sides is just an art error and nothing sinister, right?

Kaktus 2014/05/24(Sat)14:47 No. 575631 ID: 65a774
File 140096806336.png - (15.07KB , 900x450 , 11.png )

>Ceana's golden prosthesis swapping sides is just an art error and nothing sinister, right?
Accidently reversed it instead of changing the sprite completely, so art error, yes.
>[Message to player White…]
[You can’t yet send messages yet! Please level up your character before trying again!]

>Give your mother a hug - a genuine one -, and thank her for what she's done to get you into the Academy. And give your father a hug as well.
Mom?
Yes, dear?
Thank you for helping me get into the Academy.
It was the least I could do, my little grasshopper.
>... Does she actually believe that?
…you did this for me?
You’re part of the family, yes? I’m simply building a foundation for the future, see? …besides, it’s about time you found some nice mantis lady to start a family with and Lady Lucrais is rather sweet when you get to know her… um… even if you don’t agree with her all the time.
I’m pretty sure she wants to rearrange my facial structure with her claws.
I’m sure you’re exaggerating as usual… *Sigh* Dai, darling, you know how you are with other people. You have to calm down and stop seeing things that aren’t there. Not everyone is against you, dear.
>She looks relatively calm, so if you want to explain the situation, now's the time.
Mother…?
Yes, dear?
I… um… I… never mind. Goodbye and goodnight, mom…
I’ll see you soon, my little grasshopper.
Remember what I told you son, and take care.
>Ask if the attendant could let you visit the Academy library to pick out some things to read while you're resting.
Hmm, as long as I can accompany you, then yes.
Let me just get my library card then…

>Looks like we did what we needed to to escape tonight's engagement, but it wasn't necessary. That's the problem with strategy- you can make missteps if you don't have all the information.
Information is the key to victory, yes… that and adapting.
>It sounds like Lucrais wants out as much as you do. It might be wise for the two of you to coordinate your efforts to get the wedding called off.
Hmm… finding an ally with the enemy? Risky but… rewarding…
>I'd suggest penning a letter to Lucrais, laying out that you don't want to marry her as much as she obviously doesn't want to marry you, proposing a temporary alliance to figure out a way to get out of this mess, and to arrange to meet outside the view of both your families to discuss this.
Hmm… that would work… though I have to admit, I’m not really adroit or savvy enough to write anything groundbreaking…
>Cedric is "The Moon", it represents confusion, fantasy, psychological conflict, things like that. I didn't get that impression from Cedric at all, so perhaps the card meanings are reversed.
Wait, are your talking about Tarot cards? Hmm… didn’t the moon symbolize stuff like creativity, inspiration and dreams? …or was it madness and illusions? Hmm… I have to look that up.
>So... what do you have to do in here, besides sleep?
Well… I got some books and board games here… but with no one else to play with… err…

Cedric?
Huh? You came back? So you successfully talked them down!?
Um… in a sense… but what are you doing here?
Well, you see… apparently the groundskeeper, or someone else, found the ladder and removed it while I was in here talking to you. You know how you can see the whole roof outside from the ground? I’m assuming whoever took the ladder thought someone had forgotten it there as no one was on the roof. Either way, I was on my way out through your dorm… but enough about that, what’s up?

Insert Creative madness!_

>>575631
Why is he standing on the bed then? As for The Moon I suppose tarot card meanings can vary a lot in interpretation... What's Cedric like?

Well whatever, tell him you were gonna go to the library because the whole thing got called off.

Facepalm, and be thankful there are multiple beds in that room, oor you could just bring this up now, depending on how bad it would be for Cedric to be found here. Maybe talk this deliemma over with him.
...Kinda wanna have ya show us to mother to say that things will change... For the better or worse is gonna be hard to say though!

Cedric took a lot of time to tell you that, so the attendant might ask what's taking so long. If she does, tell her your library card fell behind the cabinet and shift it over so it sounds like you're retrieving it.

Quickly tell Cedric the basics of what happened and that the family attendant is going to be watching the door to make sure you get your rest. So unless he wants to end up stuck in here overnight with you he should take off while you're down in the library. Though it'd be nice if he could come back after, tell the attendant he's your friend and ask if she'll let him visit. Then you two could kill the time talking and playing board games... And maybe he could smuggle in a couple bottles of ale as well.

Also ask Cedric to stand in front of the mirror so you (and us) can get a look at what his "angel" looks like. Oh, and if he knows who was kicked out of the Academy to make room for you.

So, how did Cedric come to be your friend? From what we gather, you have a tough time with people. I'd guess making friends is not easy for you.

Have you considered that your mental illness is inflating how bad you perceive the conflicts you've had with Lucrais? Perhaps you should arrange a meeting with her so we can observe and tell you what's really going on. In fact, arranging a meeting with her could give you the chance you need to talk to her without your families listening in. Just say you want to meet in private to try and work things out somewhat and come to some agreement before you two are married. Maybe they'll actually give you two privacy to talk.

Hey, could you tell us just what it is that you and Lucrais have disagreed over? Was it something you said, or was she just disagreeable right out of the gate?

>>575633

He's probably standing on it because that's where he could see out the window to get to the Ladder.

As for such he does seem like a good friend, once we grow in strength we could try and ally with white.

Actually ask him about White, we cannot speak to each other yet and so we must rely on communication, ask them how they feel about us.

>tarot card meanings
They all have more than one meaning, by design. The problem is you're supposed to use the context or arrangement to figure out what the meaning is. If information is the key to victory... we don't have enough.

>You came back? So you successfully talked them down!?
I successfully plaid the crazy card. That, and she bailed, apparently.

Why exactly are there 4 beds stacked on top of each other, anyway?

> I… um… I… never mind.
Is that all? Man, don't give your father flak for being a doormat if you won't stand up to your mother either.

Now, let's treat our plans for this little escapade into political subversion like practice for wargames. After all, all warfare is based in deception. Knowledge of the enemy's dispositions can only be obtained from other men. Ergo, espionage. If your fancy commander school won't teach you about that, drop out now because they're a bunch of hacks.

A good first step is to contact potential allies. Start with enlisting Cedric, and then try to write a letter to your would-be fiance to either meet you somewhere or come up with some other way you could stay in contact discreetly. Remember, right now we need information before we can act.

Cedric is still here? Excellent, it seems we can't communicate with White yet but with him here we can talk indirectly.

Tell him to pass on to White that Teal says hi and wonders if there is a chance of us being allies.

Kaktus 2014/05/24(Sat)18:06 No. 575675 ID: 65a774
File 140098000044.png - (17.05KB , 900x450 , 12.png )

>As for The Moon I suppose tarot card meanings can vary a lot in interpretation... What's Cedric like?
Well… and don’t know about confusion or psychological conflict, but he’s certainly creative. I mean, one time in a war game he successfully captured a fort by building a giant wooden Ankwark, filling it with “explosives”, tricking the enemy to pull it inside the fort and then while most of the enemy forces surrounded the wooden animal and put it to the “flame” to burn out the ambush they thought was in it, he and his forces snuck in trough a back door that he successfully bribed the cook to keep open. Of course, the best part was that he filled the Ankwark with yogurt instead of fake explosive, thus covering the whole enemy force in it when they broke it down… I still have no idea where he got that much yogurt from… Oh, and he got a problem standing still too… and if he actually manage to sit still he usually just start day dreaming instead… let’s just say that the theory teachers hates him…

>From what we gather, you have a tough time with people. I'd guess making friends is not easy for you.
Well, I’ve never been good with people.
>So, how did Cedric come to be your friend?
I can’t remember exactly. We met when we were kids… hmm… I think we met the first time at school… and it kind of just hit off.
>Have you considered that your mental illness is inflating how bad you perceive the conflicts you've had with Lucrais?
I… I’m… *sigh* Mother is probably right. I’m usually remembering things worse than they were…
>Hey, could you tell us just what it is that you and Lucrais have disagreed over? Was it something you said, or was she just disagreeable right out of the gate?
I don’t know. Her mother and my mother are old friends so we’ve seen each other when we were smaller, but we never really spoke with each other. Then one day about a year ago she came up to me and called me a plebian… and… other stuff that I rather not say… oh, and she threw a glass of wine in my face.
>Why exactly are there 4 beds stacked on top of each other, anyway?
Because there’s supposed to be five people sleeping in here… or ten if they bring in the double decker beds. Every Dorm got one main hall and six sleeping quarters, each with five to ten beds in them… but as I’m the only male mantis in school I get the whole male mantis dorm for myself…
>Is that all? Man, don't give your father flak for being a doormat if you won't stand up to your mother either.
Hey! She’s kind of scary, alright!?

>Why is he standing on the bed then?
Um… because I need to climb on it to reach the window?
>Quickly tell Cedric the basics of what happened and that the family attendant is going to be watching the door to make sure you get your rest. So unless he wants to end up stuck in here overnight with you he should take off while you're down in the library.
Err… I’m pretty sure I can just walk out the door? I mean, the only reason I came through the window in the first place was because your mother wanted some privacy, and she’s not here anymore, right?
>Ask if he knows who was kicked out of the Academy to make room for you.
Heck if I know.
>Actually ask him about White, we cannot speak to each other yet and so we must rely on communication, ask them how they feel about us.
Hmm… She’s rather… indifferent, really. She said she just started this character so she can’t really say anything for certain yet.
>Tell him to pass on to White that Teal says hi and wonders if there is a chance of us being allies.
She says, “Sure, but I don’t really have a goal yet…”.

>Now, let's treat our plans for this little escapade into political subversion like practice for wargames.
Hmm… I’m pretty sure we can ignore defending ourselves from scouts and spies so the first thing we should do is gathering information and finding allies.
>A good first step is to contact potential allies. Start with enlisting Cedric.
…does this mean we’ll have more time drinking together?
Of course.
Then I’m in.

>Then try to write a letter to your would-be fiance to either meet you somewhere or come up with some other way you could stay in contact discreetly.
Do you know how to write letters? I mean, in a well refined manner?
Hey, don’t ask me. I usually just throw something together.
Hmm… there’s also the problem of getting the letter to her…
Write her name and address on it? I mean, you know where she lives… or better yet, just walk up there and knock on the door. I’m pretty sure her mom won’t stop her from having a chat with her husband to be.
But what if they are watching us? To make sure we don’t… you know…
Dai, they want you to do the “you know” with their daughter. I’m pretty sure they’ll give you the privacy you need if you ask them too.
>Well whatever, tell him you were gonna go to the library.
So… why the library again?
Right… I was here to find a book about the Serath deserts… and… um… was there something else I needed to know or… I mean, this place got a lot of information…?
Hi there, cutie~ can I help you with anything? Find a book, maybe? Recommend one? Extend your vocabulary, maybe~

Insert Read a book, you plebian!_

>>575675
Looking up the standard interpretations of tarot cards in this world would be a good idea- specifically the Major Arcana. A book on Daemons would be nice, maybe they have some information we don't have yet.

...I wonder if White is the new "angel" player. It kindof sounds like it, but I thought that was supposed to happen after the beam of light. Please find a Serathian calendar so we can check the date, please. Also find some information on the ruins under the Belt. Plus information about the Belt itself, or if you have some really esoteric tomes, information about the Words of the world.

White certainly picked an interesting design, white angelic mantis type.

Also are you hit on often here? I mean being the only male in an all female school must have led to some sort of propositions from the bigger sex.

Well, if she's so friendly and helpful that makes finding information easier.

Although you don't need the information on Serath so much to prove we exist, since you've got independent verification from your friend. I suppose it might be useful to us, though.

Kaktus 2014/05/25(Sun)06:54 No. 575733 ID: 65a774
File 140102607453.png - (17.35KB , 900x450 , 13.png )

>White certainly picked an interesting design, white angelic mantis type.
Well, now I’ve seen a white mantis like you asked when we first met Cedric… but her eyes are yellow, not red…
>Are you hit on often here? I mean being the only male in an all-female school must have led to some sort of propositions from the bigger sex.
Actually, there are a lot of guys in this school. It’s just… they are humans and lizards. But… well… I do get hit on a lot by the human and lizards gals… and even guys sometimes… but most of the mantis ladies wants nothing to do with me. Well, except the head librarian, but she hit’s on everyone that got a D of some kind.

>Well, if she's so friendly and helpful that makes finding information easier.
Let’s see… sir Daithi, correct?
That’s correct.
…and Cedric… I have to remind you that you got a book checked out that needs to be returned before sunset tomorrow.
I’ll return it first thing tomorrow, I swear!
Oh, I hope you do… and I hope you don’t forget… again… or else I’ll have to hunt you down and MAKE YOU PAY!
AAH!!
A fine.
…oh, that’s not-
PAID IN PAIN!!
AAH!!
-full amount of coin.
Um… “aah!”?
Now, what can I help you two gentlemen with?

>Please find a Serathian calendar so we can check the date, please.
Hmm… you said the 12th of Eranos, 3995, correct? That would be... that was nearly exactly three months ago… huh…
>Looking up the standard interpretations of tarot cards in this world would be a good idea- specifically the Major Arcana.
Well, I better bring this book with me if there are more tarot cards around. But first, let’s check up on the Moon… Hmmm… Seems like we were both correct. It represents confusion, fantasy, psychological conflict, creativity, inspiration, dreams, madness, illusions, fear, fantasy, the subconscious and trickery. Masters of illusions, lotus eating machines and shape shifters can often be associated with it.
Oh, Tarot? I love that kind of mystic stuff! Maybe you can read my future? I think we got a deck of tarot cards in one of the board game bookcases.
Err… I can’t really… um…
HEY! Cedric!! Stop climbing on the bookcases!
But how else am I supposed to reach the top shelf?
There’s a ladder right over there!
But it’s all the way over there!
>Find some information on the ruins under the Belt. Plus information about the Belt itself.
Ruins? That’s just a landmark, nothing else. Your best bet is probably this book about myths and legends about the belts itself… or a book about astrology if your into that.
I’ll just take the book about legends, thank you.
>Information about the Words of the world.
…the what? Never heard about words of the world before…
>A book on Daemons would be nice, maybe they have some information we don't have yet.
Daemons? Actually, we have a book about the Daemons worshippers but it’s lent out right now. There were some daemon hunters just earlier today borrowing it… of course, they should have come back by now. Hey, you know what? Do you want to do me a favor? I’d love to grab my battle axe and get that book back but I need to work tonight.
Um… how are we even supposed to find it?
I got a tracking spell on it so I can see exactly were it is at all times. In fact, it’s been out at that landmark under the star belt all day.
You put tracking spells on the books!?
Only the valuable ones. So, what do you say? Want to help a girl in need, oh mighty hero? I’m sure such a strong and handsome hero like you would have no pr- HEY! Get off the desk, you barbarian!!
But how am I supposed to reach the top she-
You’re not even checking the top shelf! You’re just jumping around!

Insert Conan the librarian_

He seems like he has some fun, we should do it though just to get it.

Also who is depicted on those windows?

>retrieve book!
>it’s been out at that landmark under the star belt all day
...I'm going to assume she doesn't mean Aerathin's Belt. That would quite the trip, wouldn't it.

Assuming the book is somewhere closer nearby, I see no problem with accepting her request.

Looks like you found an excuse to leave the building.

I hope you're armed, because a book just sitting around in a public space all day sounds like a trap.

Daithi, the four Words of the World are runes of godly power from the Ancient Age that used together could either seal the daemon realm away from this world, or throw the gates open to it. They also have the power to change the world. The one that was (or is) sealed under the Serathian capitol was (or could be) used to restore the Serath to the jungle it was in the Ancient Age. Needless to say, whomever holds the Words will decide the fate of the world.

That "angel" we told you would descend from Aerathin's Belt is actually a new god entering this world; An event that hasn't happened since the Ancient Age. Whoever gets it on their side will have a major advantage going forward. That means every daemon and player that can is converging on that spot under the Belt. We know that the leader of the opposing daemon faction, The King Clad in Gold, will be pulling out all the stops to get this new god on his side. That daemon hunters have shown up and are hanging around under the Belt is no surprise. Be prepared to either run or fight once you get there. Oh, and pack a spyglass or binoculars if you can to scope out the landmark too.

You definitely should go get that book. If daemon hunters wanted it it probably contains important information we could use. It'll also give us a chance to make contact with the daemon hunters. You just need a way to sneak past your family's attendant.

The attendant is watching, so tell the head librarian you can't, but Cedric could. Once she gives him the locator, tell him to get the ladder once you're in your dorm room and climb up to get you. And this time he should stick a big note on the ladder that has "DO NOT MOVE THIS LADDER" written on it. Hopefully that'll deter people from moving it this time.

So it's been three months since we were in the Serath and there's no news about it changing from desert to jungle. This doesn't bode well for our side having retrieved the Word. I think this might be a future where Jericho died and we failed.

Daithi, ask the librarian if she has any news from the Serath that's from three months ago or later, and also where you could go to find the latest news from there. Maybe you could swing by there once you get out of the Academy.

[Display current number of AI and real players] This'll tell us if the new "god" has entered the world yet. If it hasn't then White definitely isn't it.

Ask White if she'll promise not to claim your mother or father as her pawns. Yes, Daithi, they're free pawns, and any player who sees them can claim them if they have a free slot. We'd very much like to claim them, once we have the slots for it, if for no better reason than to keep another, possibly hostile, player from taking them.

So it seems we need a plan B.

...how far up is your room and how good are you at climbing?

Kaktus 2014/05/25(Sun)10:51 No. 575783 ID: 65a774
File 140104030197.png - (15.00KB , 900x450 , 14b.png )

>[Display current number of AI and real players]
[There are currently 346 AI players active! There is currently one Player playing the game: Player Teal. There is currently one Player in the character creation menu!]

>Daithi, the four Words of the World is runes of godly power that have the power to change the world.
…whoa… um… you weren’t kidding when you said you guys were influential. Um... this is a bit above my head, isn’t it? I mean, I’ve barely been a commander student for a year…
>That "angel" we told you would descend from Aerathin's Belt is actually a new god entering this world; An event that hasn't happened since the Ancient Age.
A god? *Pff* gods don’t exist. It’s probably just some kind of… powerful being or a creature from the stars or something.

>Who is depicted on those windows?
That would be the first Emperor, Hakaan the first, holding an hourglass. She was the one who formed the Amun Empire in the first place.
>Looks like you found an excuse to leave the building.
As I didn’t already have one…
>I hope you're armed, because a book just sitting around in a public space all day sounds like a trap.
Err… well, I got a sword in my room but… I’ve never really been in any real combat before. Wait, why would they trap a random book from the library? That doesn’t make sense!
>Daithi, ask the librarian if she has any news from the Serath that's from three months ago or later.
Bah! The news I gotten from there is terrible!
Really?
YES! Apparently it’s a jungle now! Do you know how many books I have to update on that fact alone!
>...I'm going to assume she doesn't mean Aerathin's Belt. That would quite the trip, wouldn't it.
Err… it’s not really that far. I mean, you probably can walk there in an hour or two.
Actually, I usually take chicks up there for some alone time thanks to the great view so I know a shortcut. There’s a quicker road right from the Academy through the forest that will take you there in half an hour, 45 minutes tops! As long as we bring some lights it’s probably the best way to go.

>You definitely should go get that book. If daemon hunters wanted it, it probably contains important information we could use. It'll also give us a chance to make contact with the daemon hunters.
Wait, who are these daemon hunters?
I don’t know exactly but… I think it was about some murder up north?
Oh! I’ve heard about that. Apparently there have been some weird murders going on up north. They’ve found corpses strung from the trees, gutted and flayed. The authorities blame some kind of daemon cult or something… and the scariest part? The murders have been steadily going south, right toward us.
…suddenly, walking through a dark forest alone to get a book doesn’t sound like the best idea…
>You just need a way to sneak past your family's attendant.
>The attendant is watching, so tell the head librarian you can't, but Cedric could.
>Once she gives him the locator, tell him to get the ladder once you're in your dorm room and climb up to get you.
While I would love to help a lady in need like yourself, I’m currently… preoccupied with family business, but I’m sure Cedric here can go in my stead.
Hmm? Oh, yes, you can’t say no to a window of opportunity like this. But don’t worry, I won’t climb out there alone. *wink*
Geez, I hope so. Just don’t… try to eat to book or whatever you do with them, you little pest.
(Well, I guess I don’t even need to explain my… err… your plan to him.)
>Ask White if she'll promise not to claim your mother or father as her pawns.
Right… no claiming parents…

…

Dammit, where’s Cedric with the ladder? He was-
Psst! Hey! Dai!
Cedric? Where’s the ladder?
Well… change of plans… apparently the groundskeeper locked it up with a padlock so… got any other ideas?
Dammit.

Insert Best laid plans_

Hmmm, there's nothing really in sight we could use to climb down with, and jumping is out of the question.. Though I wonder if we have enough power to form things.

*Form ladder!*

Doubt it though considering we can't claim pawns. Is there no way to just sneak out? Or see if he could find anything to get up there, stacking boxes or something.

>>575733
Oh, it's a few months ago? Then... the beam of light already happened. Are you sure you don't remember something like that? Also this means if White is the new player they took a few months to enter the game. Or got corrupted and lost their memory... or does that only happen to AI players?

It sounds like the people that went to the ruins got themselves killed. If we go there, bring soldiers.

Also look up The Magician, The High Priestess, and The Heirophant, since those represent people we've met so far.

Oh damn missed my chance for further tarot analysis.

>>575783
...bedsheet rope? Or you could try to sneak out the front door.

>A god? *Pff* gods don’t exist. It’s probably just some kind of… powerful being or a creature from the stars or something.
...and what, pray tell, is the difference, really?

How good a climber is Cedric? If he's good enough he could "borrow" the knotted rope used for climbing exercises, climb up with one end and tie it off for you to climb down. Since the Academy is an old castle I'd imagine the plumbing was installed after it was built, so there ought to be pipes run down the exterior walls he could climb up.

Alternatively you could drop down if Cedric could bring a hay cart around. Or is there a moat around the castle deep enough you could drop into? Or could you drop to a second floor roof, then first, then to the ground? Of course, all these are one way; You'll need to find another way to get back up.

>I mean, I’ve barely been a commander student for a year…
If Lucrais was kicked out of the Academy to make room for you, this would line up with the exchange where she called you a "plebeian." Or perhaps it wasn't her that was kicked out but one of her sisters. We'll have to find out who was kicked out before approaching Lucrais.

>>575787
Check the player count in the update. The new "god" is currently in character creation, so it hasn't arrived yet but it's close to.

>>575803
Oh right, dur. I wonder why it's taking so long for them to get through character generation? Maybe time flows for them like it flows for us...

Kaktus 2014/05/25(Sun)12:09 No. 575815 ID: 65a774
File 140104499277.png - (21.10KB , 900x450 , 15.png )

>Look up The Magician, The High Priestess, and The Heirophant, since those represent people we've met so far.
Let’s see… just but quick skimming the book… “The Magician: Is often attributed to the consultant, the protagonist. Symbolizes action, initiative, self-confidence, manipulation, and potential.”
“The High Priestess is a symbol of hidden knowledge, wisdom, female mystery and magic. Often a figure or event that test to resolve of the consultant.”
“The Heirophant is symbol of education, authority, conservatism, obedience and relationship with the divine. Often associated with the temples or religion.”

>...and what, pray tell, is the difference, really?
Gods are supposedly all powerful, endless and creator of everything. They are also huge jerks who demands stuff like Virgin male mantis sacrifices and stuff. Powerful creatures on the other hand can be killed with a well-placed arrow in the eye if they ever demand that I should be sacrificed.
>*Form ladder!*
[Error!]
…that was a decent display of disappointment, wasn’t it?
>If Lucrais was kicked out of the Academy to make room for you, this would line up with the exchange where she called you a "plebeian." Or perhaps it wasn't her that was kicked out but one of her sisters.
…well, she is the same age as me… and she doesn’t have any sisters… hmm…

>Oh, it's a few months ago? Then... the beam of light already happened. Are you sure you don't remember something like that?
I’ve never heard about a beam of light…
>It sounds like the people that went to the ruins got themselves killed.
Ruins? There’s an overgrown statue there. I wouldn’t call that ruins. Besides, I’m pretty sure the city guards patrols past by there… I mean, it’s practically right next to the city.

>See if he could find anything to get up there, stacking boxes or something.
Um… there’s a few boxes here but… not enough to reach up to you.
>Alternatively you could drop down if Cedric could bring a hay cart around. Or is there a moat around the castle deep enough you could drop into?
Err… who would leave a cart full of hay just laying around? I mean, there’s a cart here and some hay, but nowhere enough for you to jump into.
>...how far up is your room and how good are you at climbing?
Hmm… if only I had some rope or something…
>...bed sheet rope?
…well, I do have a lot of bed sheets that are never used…

…

Success! Ha, that attendant will never know I was even gone!
Err…
She’s standing right behind me, aren’t she?

Insert Quick! Play dead! They don’t eat dead mantises!_

>>575815
Welp time for some diplomacy. Tell her you're not just sneaking out to have fun, you're on a mission of importance. You're going to retrieve a lost book of considerable value and if she wants to come with you to make sure you stay out of trouble that's fine.

If talking doesn't work you could just try to outrun her.

What the hell? How did she get here so fast?

Ugh. Cheesing it would break the trust between you and your father. If you had made those excuses to your mother I wouldn't give a damn, but I don't think you should disappoint your dad like that. You could say that we told you to leave, but I doubt that story would work twice, even if it is true.

Just confess, and try to make it look like a grey area rather than outright disobedience. Say you needed to get to the book on daemon hunting, and figured no harm would be done if you got back quickly enough.

Try to escape blame with flattery. Wow, she certainly got here, fast, didn't she?

(And if we want to be really picky and technical- her orders were to prevent you from leaving. Now that you've already left...)

Yes. Yes, she is... Welp. Shoulda figured she would find you out. Shouting down to Cedric from your window wasn't exactly subtle. I'd also guess she's been with the family long enough to know what kinds of shenanigans you and Cedric get up to.

Honestly, I think you should head back to your room and call it a night. I have a feeling that what with daemon cultists and hunters and who knows what else 'round here 'cause of that new "god" coming down that traipsing about in the dark near that landmark is quite likely going to be more danger than I'd be comfortable putting our inexperienced king in the way of; Seriously, you didn't even bring your sword with you, you dork! Plus, I don't want to strain the relationship with your mother even more by heading out there. We'll pick this up tomorrow, when it's nice and bright out.

But if, for whatever reason, you do choose to go to the landmark, tell the attendant where you're going. That way if shit does go down out there your mother and the city guard will know where to pick up your trail and might have a chance to save your ass.

Those tarot descriptions do kinda fit all three of you, though not completely. Guess they were chosen a bit more for ID over close matching.

That statue at the landmark, would you happen to know if it dates from the Ancient Era?

>"...virgin male mantis sacrifices and stuff..."
>"...ever demand that I should be sacrificed."
...Of course you're a virgin. Color me unsurprised. Well, now have an additional objective: Get Daithi laid. Should be pretty easy with all those human and lizard gals in the Academy hitting on you. That is unless you're only attracted to mantis gals. In that case we'll have to look outside the Academy, but that shouldn't be much harder.

>>575933
Wouldn't his mother get kindof pissed at him if he goes off and has sex with people other than his fiance?

>>575934

I dunno, I know they might be highly conservative and only have him and a few other males be a harem for his female, but if they aren't they may allow for a general harem.

Doubt it though.

Kaktus 2014/05/26(Mon)07:54 No. 575979 ID: 65a774
File 140111608173.png - (17.88KB , 900x450 , 16.png )

>...Of course you're a virgin. Color me unsurprised.
W-what!? I-I never s-said that! I d-don’t know where y-you got that idea from, b-but whoever told you is a l-liar and a cur!
>Well, now have an additional objective: Get Daithi laid.
I appreciate it b-but… err… it’s not like I really… I get it a-all the time- err… besides, mother would kill me if she knew I did something to someone when I’m getting married in just a few months.
>Should be pretty easy with all those human and lizard gals in the Academy hitting on you.
Hey, they are just interested because they’ve heard that we mantises are bigger. I want my first time to be som- I mean… err… I just don’t want to sleep around?
>That statue at the landmark, would you happen to know if it dates from the Ancient Era?
I’m pretty sure it’s old enough…

>What the hell? How did she get here so fast?
You weren’t exactly subtle… and this isn’t the first time you’ve tried to sneak out of the window either. I know you well enough, sir Daithi, which mean I can tell that you shouldn’t resist seizing the initiative and take action instead of sitting on your abdomen like a good boy.
>Try to escape blame with flattery.
I have to admit, you’re not only vigilant, but rather clever too. Whatever my parents pay for-
As you said, I’m clever… and I’m clever enough to see that you’re trying to use your non-existent charm to get out of trouble.
>Welp time for some diplomacy. Tell her you're not just sneaking out to have fun, you're on a mission of importance.
Yes, because getting the librarian into the sack is so much more important.
Err… I wasn’t… actually, I wanted the book, actually…
A likely story.
Hey, Mother would kill me if she heard that I’ve been sleeping around, alright?
Hmm… fair enough.

>If talking doesn't work you could just try to outrun her.
You might be able to outrun me, but you can’t outrun your parents when I tell them. Besides, I’ll probably lose my job if something happened to you. Can you live with that knowledge?
Well, if you’re afraid to lose your job, then just don’t tell them we were gone.
…what?
Whatever they don’t know won’t hurt them… and besides, I got this coupon for a free ale down at the Academy pub that needs to be used tonight…
…are you trying to bribe me?
I’m just saying that you need to calm down, take a nice, cold mug of ale and relax. We’re just going for a stroll in the forest to pick up a book. No one needs to know about that.
…fine, fine. You can go to that old landmark and I won’t tell your father, alright… but just come back before nine!
That’s in three and a half hours, so plenty of time.
Then let’s go!
>You didn't even bring your sword with you, you dork!
Right after I grab my sword… heh…

…

There it is… and we didn’t even get stabbed on the way her trough the dark forest.
Or murdered…
Or murder stabbed…
Or flayed and hung by the entrails like the other murders…
Err… that’s not really help- wait… who is… Lucrais!? What is she doing here!?
…talk about a coincident… well, the good news is that you don’t need to write that letter to your bride to be now…

Insert Sword in hand, the mighty hero faced the fearful drake_

Got to hand it to Cedric, he is surprisingly clever in both his acts and words. And such a faithful friend, always nice.

However for now I suggest hiding from her, see what she is up to.

[Scan Lucrais]
She doesn't look like she is in a good mood, perhaps this isn't the best time to talk to her.

>Lucrais!? What is she doing here!?
...maybe she has the book.

Did we bring the charm or whatever with the tracking spell on it, or did the librarian keep that?

Geez, she's already in a foul mood. Is she always like that nowadays?

I suggest hiding and watching Lucrais for a bit, or at least until we scan her. There's a reason she's up here and I'd like to have some idea of what it is before approaching her 'cause for all we know she's in league with daemon cultists or some bad crazy shit like that.

Whisper to Cedric to watch your back and make sure nobody sneaks up on us. Also tell him to get out the book locator and tell you which way it's pointing.

We think that Lucrais is the falling figure in The Tower stained glass window we saw, but we're not certain. Our scan will tell us for sure. [Scan Lucrais]

Man, that star in Aerathin's Belt is bright. And big. And low in the sky... Is it supposed to be like that? Just how far up is this place? And is that a platform in front of the statue and aligned with the star? If so that's probably where the beam of light will land, so avoid standing there.

When you get the chance to, check the inscription on the statue's plinth. I doubt you'll be able to read it since it's probably in the Ancient language, so write it down for later translation.

Kaktus 2014/05/26(Mon)11:11 No. 576000 ID: 65a774
File 140112791632.png - (17.94KB , 900x450 , 17.png )

[New player entering the game at point 0.0 at the dawn of a new game day!]
[ERROR!! Unable to find avatar fitting Player {%^*¤öö43}]
[ERROR!! Player {%^*¤öö43} brain structure doesn’t fit the current mold!]
[ERROR!! Player {%^*¤öö43} isn’t made of delicious meat!]
[Initiating automatic patch fix… Player {%^*¤öö43} will join in… 24 hours… *BEEP!*]

>[Scan Lucrais]
[“The Tower” is currently unclaimed!]

>Geez, she's already in a foul mood. Is she always like that nowadays?
Every time I see her, at least.
>We think that Lucrais is the falling figure in The Tower stained glass window we saw, but we're not certain.
The tower? Hmm… isn’t that like a bad omen or something… wait… let me just… “The Tower represents arrogance, prejudiced, authoritarian principles and/or the necessity of profound, sometimes destructive, change. Often associated with pride preceding the fall or bad omens and disasters.” …arrogant: Check. Authoritarian: Check. A bad omen: Triple check.

>Man, that star in Aerathin's Belt is bright. And big. And low in the sky... Is it supposed to be like that?
As far as I know, yes. It’s not really a star, you know. It’s some kind of construct that’s been there since ancient time. Of course, no one knows what the heck it actually is beyond that. It’s a bit hard building a ladder tall enough to reach it.
>When you get the chance to, check the inscription on the statue's plinth. I doubt you'll be able to read it since it's probably in the Ancient language, so write it down for later translation.
I’ll see if I get the chance.

>I suggest hiding from her, see what she is up to.
…
…She’s just sitting there?
Hmm… is she waiting for someone?
>Did we bring the charm or whatever with the tracking spell on it, or did the librarian keep that?
Got it right here.
That’s a rock on a string.
It’s magical. It’s supposed to be pulled towards the book when we get close… see?
Of course it will start moving if you fling it around like that! Here, give it to me!
Hey, hands off the rock, pal! I got th-
I’m not deaf, you peasants. Reveal yourself at once or I’ll have the guard flay and boil your children alive in front of you, you inbred hicks.

Insert Where are all the therapist?_

>Reveal yourself at once or I’ll have the guard flay and boil your children alive in front of you, you inbred hicks.
We'd have to have children before you could have them boiled alive, and last I checked, neither of us are too keen on that.

She caught you, you might as well talk to her. And hey, if you both really hate this arranged marriage plan, maybe you can float the idea of teaming up with her to oppose it.

>>576000
Oh hey the new player is trying to join the game, and it's quite alien. Interesting. I'm very curious to see how this works out! Make note of the time. We have 24 hours before it enters the game in earnest.

So uh why does that golden thing up there have a green light on it now?

Reveal yourself. Ask her what she's doing out here, and why she canceled the date too. Maybe try asking why she hates you so much?

So your betrothed threatens to flay and boil your kids alive? I would suggest going with a comback about how she could be so cruel towards her future children, but joking like that might be suicidal.
So since she is unclaimed what do you guys think, should we claim her as soon as we can and fix things between them from both ends?

>>576020
(probably wise. It would also give us a contact in the other family for more access to resources.)

Kaktus 2014/05/26(Mon)14:06 No. 576028 ID: 65a774
File 140113839464.png - (17.82KB , 900x450 , 18.png )

>Make note of the time. We have 24 hours before it enters the game in earnest.
Hmm… it should be about six ‘o’clock right now…
>So uh why does that golden thing up there have a green light on it now?
There was? Huh… I probably missed it…

>So your betrothed threatens to flay and boil your kids alive? I suggest going with a comeback about how she could be so cruel towards her future children.
shouldn’t you at least wait until we try to make some before you threaten to kill them?
YOU!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE!? HAVEN’T YOU RUINED ENOUGH!?
>Ask her what she's doing out here.
I’m tried to get some time alone, that’s what! But of course the cat had to drag in some kind of common pest.
>Why she canceled the date too.
Because my day had been bad enough without seeing your ugly face, that’s why. Ugh, spending a whole dinner with… with… common folk!? Disgusting!
>And hey, if you both really hate this arranged marriage plan, maybe you can float the idea of teaming up with her to oppose it.
I mean, I don’t want to marry you and it sounds like-
You wouldn’t dare even think about it! Lady Baideal has already made up her mind and her word is law.
But-
How dare you even question it!? How can you think you even have the right to consider not too!?
Err… but what about what you want?
What I want is too see you gutted like the pig you are, Daithi, but mother’s word is absolute.

>Why she hates you so much?
…why do you hate me?
…because of what you are. How dare… some plebian like yourself even consider becoming a commander!? First you come and charm me with that cute face of yours, then you ruin my life and now I have to spend the rest of my life with some commoner!? Why wouldn’t I hate you!
…

Insert Anger management_

So... angry sex or what?

I never made any effort to charm you, or ruin your life. If that's what you feel has happened, I'm afraid the only things you can blame are yourself, or circumstance. I'm sorry.

And excuse me for trying to make something of myself, or following a path I believed in. We can't all be born with everything.

>>576028
Haha, Cedric ditched you. Probably a good idea.

Yeah, sounds like her family's going to fall on bad times soon, if The Tower is her card. Or just her, somehow, but I doubt that would change her perspective much. I wonder if the stained glass window we saw was literal in its portrayal? It showed her falling from a tower as it got struck by lightning. Warning her about that possibility might get you in her good graces after it happens, but it probably won't prevent it. Go ahead and warn her if you want.

Ask her how being married to you will prevent her from accomplishing what she wants.

..A commoner rising above his/her station?
Facsinating! Not the angle I expected. I know there seemed to be an angle of 'can't maintain the family riches' but that makes me wonder how/when you guys got rich in the first place.
At any rate, let's get going- we've still a book to reclaim and the lady would like to be left alone.

You're not a commoner, you're in the Commander Academy based on merit, and neither the marriage or ruined life is your fault.

Also did she just all you cute?

I'm just realizing the irony of royalty calling somebody an inbred.

...Damn. Her kind of horrible shitty noble attitude is the fertilizer that bloody uprisings and revolutions sprout from; The kind where new devices have to be invented to handle all the beheadings.

Wait a second... Daithi, your family isn't nobility? Not even a little bit? Your mother having served as a distinguished commander didn't earn her any title along with those riches? Not even a knighthood? Man, that sucks.

Before you say any more I'd suggest backing up far enough that you can make a run for it, just in case she loses control of her rage.

Point out that if her mother sees fit to marry off her only daughter at significant expense to a "plebian," then maybe she should consider that her mother very likely sees something worthy in that "plebian." Perhaps she should ask her mother just what that is. Or is she going to question her mother's wisdom?

Ask her outright just how the heck you ruined her life by wanting to become a commander. Was she one of those who had to leave the Academy to make room for you? 'Cause if she was, then it was the Academy's choice to pick her, not yours. And why couldn't she reapply next year? And also point out that if she was one of them, that her mother must have let it happen, 'cause otherwise she would have raised hell to block it, friendship with Ceada be damned.

Ask her why you not having a noble title negates everything else about you. She said you have a cute face, that you were charming, so why does being a commoner ruin all that?

And just what the hell is wrong with marrying a commoner? Haven't there been many nobles who've married commoners and many nobles who came from those marriages? In fact, it's good for the nobility to marry commoners; Brings in new blood and keeps the problem of inbreeding down. Hell, I'd be damn surprised if there weren't any commoners in Lucrais' ancestry.

Tell her that since you two are going to be stuck together that you both are going to have to come to some sort of understanding lest you spend the rest of your days in mutual misery. You don't care whatever it is, as long as it doesn't involve imprisonment or bodily harm on your person.

Point out the fact that she called you cute, preferably in the form of a short question like "You think I'm cute?"

Kaktus 2014/05/27(Tue)06:18 No. 576233 ID: 65a774
File 140119669889.png - (17.64KB , 900x450 , 19.png )

>Cedric ditched you. Probably a good idea.
He’s just giving me some space and… err… is he climbing a tree? Sometimes I have no idea what he’s up too…
>I wonder if the stained glass window we saw was literal in its portrayal? Warning her about that possibility might get you in her good graces after it happens, but it probably won't prevent it. Go ahead and warn her if you want.
Hmm… let’s refrain from mentioning that I got a strange voice in my head telling people that they are doomed, alright? I don’t want to appear crazy… crazier…
>So... angry sex or what?
While I have to admit I want to do a bit of copulation with her abdomen, I rather not ensure that the myth about female mantises and male heads becomes a reality.
>Daithi, your family isn't nobility? Not even a little bit? Your mother having served as a distinguished commander didn't earn her any title along with those riches?
Well, mother did get an honorable title, but it doesn’t transcend to her children. Most nobles sees it as a disgrace anyway, a fake noble so to speak. Of course, why would you want to be a noble in the first place? They are rapidly losing power anyway… soon “noble” are just going to be honorable title too.

>I never made any effort to charm you, or ruin your life.
That’s the worst part! You just bumble around being an idiot ruining everything!
Err… it doesn’t seem fair that you hold something I didn’t even mean to do against me…
Fair!? FAIR!? How is it fair that you get everything and I get nothing!?
>You're not a commoner, you're in the Commander Academy based on merit.
Ha! Your mother ensured you joined, not your merit. She probably sold your father as a toy to the judges like the whore he is!
Actually, my mother only made them actually consider letting me do the initiation tests… and they mostly let me do them to humor me… of course, when they saw the results…
Shut up, you son of a manwhore!
>Tell her that since you two are going to be stuck together that you both are going to have to come to some sort of understanding lest you spend the rest of your days in mutual misery.
What will happen is that we will marry, you w-will quit that stupid, pathetic dream of yours and become a good, quiet doormat like a good husband and I’ll live happily knowing that I m-make you just as miserable as you’re making me.
Wow, talk about spite…
>Ask her how being married to you will prevent her from accomplishing what she wants.
It will prevent me from accomplishing not seeing your u-ugly face, that’s what!
>Point out that if her mother sees fit to marry off her only daughter at significant expense to a "plebian," then maybe she should consider that her mother very likely sees something worthy in that "plebian."
I don’t care what my mother think of you. You’re a commoner, a street rat. A pest to be s-stomped on like the rest of your k-kind.
>Ask her outright just how the heck you ruined her life by wanting to become a commander. Was she one of those who had to leave the Academy to make room for you?
W-wha- what makes you t-think I would even want to be in that… s-stupid school, anyway?
If I remember correctly, you did mention it when we were smaller…
…I was s-supposed to get in! I had the grades for it! But no! They throw us all out because of you!
So… why don’t you just apply for next year?
…mother told me I only had one chance… and if I f-failed I… she’s forcing me to go in her footsteps and study economics.
>Ask her why you not having a noble title negates everything else about you.
Because the nobility is the life b-blood of the world! Without us the world would just be endless chaos and d-destruction!
>And just what the hell is wrong with marrying a commoner?
Because you’re just dirt! Pests! There’s a reason why the nobility r-rules!
You sound just like a propaganda poster.
Wha- No! Shut up! I do-
…or are you just repeating what your mother told you to say.
SHUT UP!!
Do you even have any opinions on your own?
OF COURSE I DO!!
Like…?
I… I… L-like… err… that you look stupid! Now shut up!

>Also did she just all you cute?
And the most important thing… did you call me cute?
Wh- Of course not!
No, no… I’m pretty sure you said that I “Charmed you with my cute face”.
I-I-I- didn’t- I… err… I… I didn’t… I said acute!
Acute face?
Acute head… as in smart! Intelligent! You’re very… err… acute means smart, right… SHUT UP!! …and wipe that smirk of your face right now!!
*Snrk*

Insert How does a mantis even smirk, anyway?_

She sounds like she really doesn't hold much of her own opinions, that she's been indoctrinated and that any view other then what she's presented has to be bad.

She does think of you higher then she wants to admit, considering her flustered attempts to backpedal. She's mentioned you are smart and cute, I'm sure with your wit you could pull more from her.

>Acute
Acute also means less than 90 degrees. So... she's saying you're not quite right. (Oh gods, math puns!).

>the paradox
Point out if she's right about nobility being right and ruling everything, she has to accept that her mother is noble, and outranks her, and thus was right about everything. Marrying her off, not letting her have another chance at school, and everything else.

And if she denies that, and the intrinsic correctness of seniority and nobility, then she loses her main reason for hating us.

She has to choose how she sees the world. See's too smart to live by self-contradictions. Hell, you know how hard it is to stand up to mothers, but.

Heck, it was completely possible for her to have gone to school if her family wanted it. If the issue was the school had to waste a whole dorm room on Dathi, they could have easily sponsored a brand new suite. Hell, they could have donated a wing.

...there's also the old way of defining nobility. You earn it by blood, or by deed. And every noble line has to start somewhere- with someone who doesn't have the blood-right, but does something that earns them their position.

Awwww... she is so tsun-tsun. :3

So she does like you, but she hates that you are the commoner who upstaged her ect. If you can just make her admit she likes you then you should be fine.

Aw, she does like you, but it's crashing up against her upbringing and world view. It's what has defined her her whole life, and she can't bring herself to break or even bend it a little to fit you into it as you are now. That's why she's so angry, and in a way it's rather sad.

>"...wipe that smirk of your face right now!!"
Okay. You have a handkerchief in that uniform, right? Draw it across your face and put on the most straight expression you can and hold it. Maybe you can crack her facade and make her chuckle. But even if you can't, do avoid smirking from now on. Bruising her noble ego won't help things.

Ask her why she wanted to become a commander so much. What about it called to her? Or was it 'cause it was just what mantis noblewomen should aspire to?

Also ask her what she thought of you before you joined the Commander Academy. Did she think of you as cute and smart then? Has she always thought of you that way? I wonder if her mother chose you to be her husband 'cause she really, really liked you, and still is.

>"...she's forcing me to go in her footsteps and study economics."
That's not a field of study you'd think she'd be any good at; She doesn't come off as smart or patient enough for it. I wonder what her mother was thinking there.

>Of course, why would you want to be a noble in the first place? They are rapidly losing power anyway...
What's been the cause of the nobles losing their power? Just the cumulation of a general shift in attitude in the Amun Empire over a long time or was there some other, major change?

Kaktus 2014/05/27(Tue)10:43 No. 576252 ID: 65a774
File 140121260763.png - (18.06KB , 900x450 , 20.png )

>Awwww... she is so tsun-tsun. :3
I don’t know what this shun-shun is but it sounds cute.
>So she does like you, but she hates that you are the commoner who upstaged her ect. If you can just make her admit she likes you then you should be fine.
Except… if she likes me she’ll probably want to marry me, which mean I’ll have an even harder time calling the wedding off.
>What's been the cause of the nobles losing their power?
Well… it started with the people getting more voting power, thus electing a senate more inclined to help the common man, who in turn elected empresses and emperors more willing to go against the nobility. So in short, the last two hundred years or so the nobility has slowly lost their privileges and people whose actually competent and willing to work is slowly getting more power than them. Of course, the only thing that’s really changed is that we’ve changed the title of nobility for the amount of money you have…

>Okay. You have a handkerchief in that uniform, right? Draw it across your face and put on the most straight expression you can and hold it. Maybe you can crack her facade and make her chuckle.
As the lady wishes, consider the smirk wiped right off…
…w-what are you- you’re such a dork.
…did I spy a smile?
No, no you did not.
>Point out if she's right about nobility being right and ruling everything, she has to accept that her mother is noble, and outranks her, and thus was right about everything. Marrying her off, not letting her has another chance at school, and everything else.
T-that’s exactly what I’m saying. There has to be a reason why she did all that. She can’t be wrong, she’s nobility!
So she’s right about taking away your happiness and freedom?
O-of course! There has to be a good reason!
…and if there is not? What if there’s a bad reason?
…there is a good reason… t-there has to be.

>She has to choose how she sees the world. See's too smart to live by self-contradictions.
If she’s always right, then why is she forcing you to live with a commoner for the rest of your life and not some rich noble boy? If she’s as grand as you say you she is you wouldn’t have had any problems getting into the school, now would you? You’re nobility after all, the world are supposed to rotate around you, right?
…I… but… no, you’re wrong… stop… STOP MAKING ME QUESTION HER, DAMMIT!! *Urg* damn commoner talk, always makes you believe the lies…
>Also ask her what she thought of you before you joined the Comm-
No, no you may not know how I felt about you. I hate you, have always hated you and will always hate you. No more needs to be said.
>Ask her why she wanted to become a commander so much. What about it called to her?
Because I was meant to lead, that’s why.
>She's mentioned you are smart and cute, I'm sure with your wit you could pull more from her.
So, if I can’t ask you what you thought about me before, how about now?
You annoying brat, a plebian that dares rise above his station, nothing more than a traitor to the people who rightfully own the empire, you’re a dork, a scoundrel and… and… something!
a dork? Really?
You probably love books more than friends… and that game you play… WarStorm or what it is called… the one with the miniatures.
…wait, you both know it by name and that it’s called miniatures and not toys? Hmm… interesting… of course, that reminds me, I need to paint those berserkers to my Derack army...
Berserkers can only be used as Järgien, you idiot… wait, no, I didn’t-
HA! I knew it! You’re playing it too! That’s why you wanted to be a commander! Let me guess, you’re playing an Imperial Amun army, aren’t you?
…that’s it, I’m leaving. Good bye, Dai.
Come on, we can play a game together sometime…
GOODBYE, DAI.
No, wait, I… err…

Insert Quick! Say something witty!_

Well if she likes would the wedding still be such a bad thing?

Make her give you a chance and then see if you can give her the same. It sure sounds easier than trying to call off the wedding. I mean if you don't want that then fine, but think about it will you.

Oh crap, is Cedric okay?

>>576252
"I hate to see you go, much as I enjoy the view~"

>>576252
Apologize for tricking her. That was disrespectful.

Kaktus 2014/05/27(Tue)12:50 No. 576273 ID: 65a774
File 140122024967.png - (33.39KB , 900x450 , 21B.png )

>Well if she likes you would the wedding still be such a bad thing?
Because I rather choose who I will spend the rest of my life with myself. I mean… I don’t love her, after all.
>I mean if you don't want that then fine, but think about it will you.
Yes, yes, I keep it in consideration…
>"I hate to see you go, much as I enjoy the view~"
…must… resist… temptation… can’t ruin everything I’ve achieved so far!

>Apologize for tricking her. That was disrespectful.
I’m sorry!
…for what? Existing?
For tricking you to admit… things that you didn’t want to admit.
…you’re such a dork. Now, go die in a fire so I don’t have to spend any more time with your nicely curv- I mean fat, ugly abdomen.
Love you too!

>Oh crap, is Cedric okay?
Hey, Ced? You okay?
I’m fine, I’m fine… really… *ugh* I thought that brash would hold my weight…
What were you even doing up there!?
…I didn’t have anything better to do will you were fighting with your honeybun. Didn’t we come here for another reason?
Oh, right, the book. Do you still have the… err… stone?
Right here… oh, look, it’s definitely pointing in that direction!
Right into the dark woods… typical…

…

So, go in and find it.
No way! Its pitch dark in there… If I take another step I won’t even be able to see the light from meadow with the land mark! Who designed these forests to be so dense!
Do you see it, at least?
…Heck if I know! For all we know it might be a hundred meters right into the yawning abyss of dark, dense forest.

Insert Look into the abyss, and the abyss might take up resident on your couch_

>>576273
I think there's something next to the rock without moss on it. Now why would it not have moss on it...? Be careful.

Also shine the light up at the trees for a moment to see if anything's in the branches. I don't like not seeing everything.

Suggestion 2014/05/27(Tue)13:56 No. 576276 ID: d0e0a2
File 140122418003.png - (41.39KB , 900x450 , 21B_ENHANCED.png )

Hmmm... Maybe we can do something about the darkness, Daithi. [Enhance view: Adjust brightness: +44%; Adjust contrast: +18%] ...Oh, crap...

Daithi, draw your sword right now. We see two figures strung up upside-down in the canopy of the tree next to the boulder with no moss. A human and a horizontally-bisected lizard, both held up with something that looks like... Webbing? I think we've found the daemon hunters; Or rather, we've found what's left of them.

Steel yourself, be ready to see a gory display, and tilt the lantern up. [Scan bodies strung up in the tree] Once we've confirmed they were the daemon hunters, grab Cedric and get the fuck out of here! Do not approach the tree. Do not take anything. It could be a trap. Just run like there's a fuckin' daemon after you, 'cause there just might be!

Dead daemon hunters means there's active daemon cultists out here and they were strong enough to take out two hunters in the light of day. You and Cedric alone wouldn't stand a chance against them. Run back to Stone Heaven, get the fuckin' city watch, and lead them back out here, ASAP!

...Oh, fuck! Lucrais! She's a pretty lady walking back home alone after dark! That's prime cultist bait! She's in danger! Run after her! Escort her back to the city.

>>576274
The boulder doesn't have moss on it 'cause it's a fake! Or it's a fuckin' SHAPESHIFTER laying in wait! AHHHHHH! RUN! RUN! RUNNNNNnnnn!

Kaktus 2014/05/28(Wed)06:04 No. 576325 ID: 65a774
File 140128225527.png - (24.55KB , 900x450 , 22.png )

>[Scan bodies strung up in the tree]
[Neutral Creature (Animal): MoleBat]

>I think there's something next to the rock without moss on it.
Hmm… it looks like… a book? It’s the book! Sweet!
>Now why would it not have moss on it...? Be careful.
Hmm… someone has to have disturbed it… maybe they used it to sit on while they we’re reading?
>We see two figures strung up upside-down in the canopy of the tree next to the boulder with no moss.
I… w-what!? A-are you sure!? By jove, I knew it was a b-bad idea coming here a-after hearing about those m-murders!
>Steel yourself, be ready to see a gory display, and tilt the lantern up.
SCREE!!
AAAH!!!
WHAT!? What is it!?
Oh sod… it’s just some Molebats…
Freaking- you scared the shit out of me, Dai.

>The boulder doesn't have moss on it 'cause it's a fake! Or it's a fuckin' SHAPESHIFTER laying in wait! AHHHHHH! RUN! RUN! RUNNNNNnnnn!
Err… if it can change shape, then why wouldn’t it just change the shape into a mossy rock instead of a normal one? …man, you guys are almo- w-wait, I think I saw s-something…

Kaktus 2014/05/28(Wed)06:04 No. 576327 ID: 65a774
File 140128229227.png - (33.35KB , 900x450 , 23.png )

*Hiss!*
AAH!! …dammit, it’s just and Ankwark…
>...Oh, fuck! Lucrais! She's a pretty lady walking back home alone after dark! That's prime cultist bait! She's in danger! Run after her! Escort her back to the city.
…I’m pretty sure she’s more dangerous than me but… maybe you have a- WHAT WAS THAT!?

Kaktus 2014/05/28(Wed)06:05 No. 576328 ID: 65a774
File 140128232214.png - (36.72KB , 900x450 , 24.png )

AAAH!!!
*Groan!*

Insert Going to the Stockholm (The capital of the glorious Swedish Empire! ALL HAIL THE EMPEROR!!) later today for a few days, expect a small hiatus until Sunday_

Glorious Swedish Empire indeed, trevlig resa.
Wait, there is no idea Cedric got turned into a mindless undead that fast, this is probably an illusion. Oh damn, you don't have a mirror on you do you? Why did we tell you to go after a bunch of demon hunters without a mirror, WHY!?

[scan Cedric]

Make sure he's not just playing a prank, Cedric seems like the sort to play this sort.

I'm guessing this is probably a prank but...

[Scan Cedric]
[Check Corruption]

>no mirror
He could use the blade of his sword, I suppose. That's reflective.

Kaktus 2014/05/28(Wed)08:22 No. 576334 ID: 65a774
File 140129057294.png - (36.97KB , 900x450 , 25.png )

>[scan Cedric]
[“The Moon” belongs to Player White!]

>Wait, there is no way Cedric got turned into a mindless undead that fast, this is probably an illusion.
It’s not real it’s not real it’s not real…
Dammit, warn me next time before you turn around. That thing is freaking bright, you know! Ow…
>Make sure he's not just playing a prank, Cedric seems like the sort to play this sort.
Cedric! You’re Cedric! You didn’t… I… good… it wasn’t…
…are you alright there, Dai?
Yes, I… no I… I’m kind of freaking out… I… I…
You need to calm down, Dai, stop worrying so much… here, let me take the lantern and you can sit down and breathe a bit…
I… yes… breathe…

Insert Illusions and dreams_

Uh, guys. Turn around. There's something there for real, now. Some lizard in robes, with glowing eyes, a creepy bone spear, and blood everywhere. Pretty sure that's bad news.

[Scan lizard]

Ok, let's see to counter illusions you can wound yourself, use a mirror or use the [Spear]. Or did wounding only work with the spear?

I really hope we can summon the spear right now.

>>576336
We're apparently too low level too even claim pawns at this point. That... really doesn't bode well for the likelihood of our being able to manifest weapons out of thin air.

Tell Cedric that your mental illness is affecting us as well. When you're stressed out we're seeing bad hallucinations too, so right now we can't totally trust what we're seeing. At least our scans still worked right since the "bodies" we saw in the tree registered as molebats.

Ask Cedric and White to turn around and tell you what they see, 'cause right now we're seeing a lizard in daemon cultist robes, wielding a bloody bone spear and splattered all over with blood. If it's just a hallucination then take the book and leave before anything more happens. If it's not a hallucination, then flee as fast as you can.

>>576336
I'm near certain the Spear of Light is tied to the instance of us that has Jericho as king since when we were with Brad and tried to summon the Spear it didn't work. Also, wounding or otherwise causing pain to oneself will only dispel illusions if the Spear of Light or another weapon that counters daemonic corruption is used. And even then I'm not sure if it'll dispel all illusions or just ones from daemons and wraiths.

Daithi, the next chance you get, get yourself a pocket mirror and keep it on you at all times; Preferably a clamshell one that's reinforced so it won't break easy. Reflections see through illusions, so having a mirror on hand when one is in play could very well be the difference between life and death. Oh, and Cedric should get a mirror as well.

>>576334
Look, obviously you're prone to seeing things. This is fucking with us too. Ask Cedric if there's a cultist lizard behind you in the lantern-light. Trust him to see what is real. Then we can react appropriately, most likely with violence.

Kaktus 2014/06/01(Sun)10:16 No. 576739 ID: 65a774
File 140164299078.png - (35.50KB , 900x450 , 26.png )

>[Scan lizard]
[Daemonic Creature (Hostile): Male lizard Cultist.]
>[Spear]
[ERROR! Unable to execute command “Spear”!]

>Daithi, the next chance you get, get yourself a pocket mirror and keep it on you at all times; Preferably a clamshell one that's reinforced so it won't break easy. Reflections see through illusions.
Reflection can see trough… of course, they reflect light and not the wool pulled over your eyes! Of course mirrors would show reality… except if it is your mind deceiving you and not some magic put in front of you. Err… either way, I got a mirror back in my room that’s… yeah, I probably need to keep it on me from now on…

>Ask Cedric and White to turn around and tell you what they see, 'cause right now we're seeing a lizard in daemon cultist robes, wielding a bloody bone spear and splattered all over with blood.
Huh? A Liz-
I will feed your soul to the deceiver!!
AH!! Hostiles!!
*Clang!*
Dammit! He got too much reach! Help me, Dai!
I… I…
DAI! NOW! I’m no expert swordfighter, yo-
*Clang!*

Insert Why use illusions when you can simply use reality?_

Don't think, Daithi. Tactics. Hostiles must be engaged or else they will gain the advantage and you lose valuable personnel, allies, and lives.

Behind you, right now. There's another coming up behind you, and you need to strike now before you're surprise attacked.

If you can eliminate yours, then it's two on one and you can come to Cedric's aid. A numerical advantage is better than an equal fight.

There is what looks like another camouflaged cultist behind you; however, the eyes are off-green rather than red, leading me to believe it's a hallucination. Still, It'd be wise you quickly move away from where you're standing. Try to flank the cultist by moving past Cedric, keeping that boulder between the cultist and you before attacking from behind. Then we can ascertain if you're seeing things or not.

>>576739
use the environment against your foe. maneuver around the trees for cover. If you end up parrying the lizard's spear, try forcing or redirecting it into the branches above or into a tree trunk.
You have height and reach on your opponent, even considering the spear. You may be able to thrust at him from alongside Cedric.

As for the possibly-fake one behind you, try a slashing retreat. If its real, it appears to only posses a short blade, it should hesitate to get in reach once its spotted.

Still, Survival, both yours and Cedric's, is the goal here

Kaktus 2014/06/01(Sun)11:27 No. 576745 ID: 65a774
File 140164726540.png - (34.99KB , 900x450 , 27.png )

>Don't think, Daithi. Tactics. Hostiles must be engaged or else they will gain the advantage and you lose valuable personnel, allies, and lives.
Don’t think, ACT!!
>There is what looks like another camouflaged cultist behind you.
DIEE!!!
*Gurgle!*
>You have height and reach on your opponent, even considering the spear. You may be able to thrust at him from alongside Cedric.
Oh shi- the sword is stuck in the tree… err… I need another weapon to trust with… a spear!!
Give me your spear!!
H-hey! Giv- *Argh!!*
Got him!
We killed them!? We won!
We… k-killed them…?
…I… by Jove… we… we k-killed them…
…I n-never… I…
MOM IS GOING TO KILL ME!!!

Insert Getting your priorities straight_

Whats your local laws say about self defense?

For what, not capturing them alive? They attacked you first and they were dangerous daemon cultists who had probably killed others or were planning on doing so.

Either way, let's get back to the school with that book before any more shows up, and THEN we worry about what awaits you if and when your mother finds out.

Calm down, guys. It's perfectly reasonable for you to be disturbed by this. That's okay. That's a perfectly normal human and mantis response.

But you on;y did what you had to. You were attacked, you responded. It would have been nice if you'd been able to merely disable them, or take them alive (for both moral reasons, and interrogation), but mercy isn't always an option you have the chance to act on when fighting for your life.

...the problem is what we do now. You're not even supposed to be here. Do you cop to sneaking out and killing two cultists who attacked you, or do we get the hell out of here and not say anything?

Wipe the blood off Cedric, he's about to have a panic attack from the look's of it, and remember you are still training for officership, you need to know how to KEEP CALM and CALM THOSE UNDER YOU.

>>576745
Are you serious? This is military experience. She'll be proud of you.

Get the book. Keep the bone-spear as evidence and retrieve your sword. Then report this to the guards so they can clean up and do a proper investigation.

>>576745
I think your mom should find solace in the fact that you just survived an ambush by a pair of possibly more experienced fighters.

Get your blade and the book back. Keep the spear, as evidence. Hiding this only supports the daemon threat.

.. on the other hand there's a good chance your minder is gonna get fired..

Kill you? Daithi, how can you say that? Your mom was a military commander; She's no stranger to killing in self-defense. She's not going to kill you, metaphorically or literally, for killing those who were attacking you and your friend. Heck, she'd probably give you a hug, talk with you about it and tell you of her first kill if you tell her; It'd be a bonding experience.

Alright, the immediate danger has been dealt with, but there's likely more nearby. Tell Cedric that, and that there'll be time for emotions later, once you're out of danger. For now focus on the task at hand and don't think about what happened.

Immediately take the book and pocket it; We came all the way out here for it and I don't want to forget it.

We need to alert the authorities to what happened here. Yes, alerting them will might get back to your mother and you will get in trouble and the attendant might be fired, but it's more important that the authorities know that there are daemon cultists out here, otherwise more people may be killed or kidnapped by them. That you came forward with this when you could have hidden it will probably mitigate the trouble you get in, and you can make the case to your mother that the attendant shouldn't be fired 'cause nobody would think that retrieving a book would be dangerous.

Take the bone spear with you; It'll be evidence that they were cultists. Also rifle the cultists' pockets for anything that may point to where they're hiding out.

Get Cedric's help to pull your sword from the tree and get going. Get on the path that Lucrais took back to the city. Keep an eye out for any signs she was taken or attacked, and hurry along to try and catch up with her. We want to make sure the cultists didn't get to her.

Kaktus 2014/06/01(Sun)12:55 No. 576782 ID: 65a774
File 140165251909.png - (13.51KB , 900x450 , 28.png )

>Calm down, guys. It's perfectly reasonable for you to be disturbed by this. That's okay. That's a perfectly normal human and mantis response.
I’M A MURDERER!!
>you need to know how to KEEP CALM!
I- I- I need to calm down… and carry on… you’re right… panicking doesn’t help! We need to focus and be logical!
>CALM THOSE UNDER YOU. Wipe the blood off Cedric!
Cedric? A-are you-
I’m fine. R-really… I’m just… what were they d-doing here? They weren’t… I… but…
Forget about them! We need to focus on the present!
>What’s your local laws say about self-defense?
Right, I’m pretty sure if anyone finds out about this we can prove it was self-defense! I mean, this guy even had a spear made out of bone! They can’t punish us!
It’s fake… it’s made out of wood and metal… but the blood is real… um… I rather not try to find out where the blood came from, though.

>Are you serious? This is military experience. She'll be proud of you.
I don’t… um… she’ll probably be mad that I even put myself in this situation to begin with!
>Kill you? Daithi, how can you say that? Your mom was a military commander; She's no stranger to killing in self-defense. Heck, she'd probably give you a hug, talk with you about it and tell you of her first kill if you tell her; It'd be a bonding experience.
I… I… m-maybe you’re right…
>Get the book. Keep the bone-spear as evidence and retrieve your sword.
Right, the book and spear… err… what are you doing?
Checking if they have anything interesting on them… hmm… a few coins… but… err… I rather leave them in their pockets… oh, what’s this? A weird necklace? It can be a clue on who these people are… better grab it, right?
Right.

>...the problem is what we do now. You're not even supposed to be here. Do you cop to sneaking out and killing two cultists who attacked you, or do we get the hell out of here and not say anything?
So… should we tell someone or-
I vote running away!
Me too. Let’s get back to the school as fast as possible… but… err… I rather not run through the wood again without a lantern… um… and I probably should stomp out the fire too…
Then we’ll take the road to the city. It’s in the open and got lights after it! Let’s go!

…

…wait, what is that commotion up ahead?
Oh, shi- the city guard!
Wait, what are they doing at that tree… is that… Lucrais!? Are they arresting Lucrais!? They are threating her with their weapons!!
Well, she probably deserve it… hmm, I think we can sneak around them if we…
They are holding Lucrais! What if they… I mean… err… maybe we should sneak around them…
…did you just…?

Insert Fornicate the constable!_

>>576782
Don't hide. That kind of thing implies guilt, and being armed as you are, may cause a serious problem if you're spotted. Approach, get a closer look, and look for signs that they aren't actually guards..
[scan guards]
If they're legit, tell them about the forest fight. also, try not to hold that spear aggressively. Let the tip drag or put it over your shoulder.

[show pawn EXP/level]

Can you can get any closer so we can hear what's going on? I think we may have found out where the blood from that weapon came from. If those cultists set up another ambush, It's possible that the guards found another body and are looking for suspects. Lucrais' defensive attitude would naturally make them suspicious.

Although it's tempting to let her get arrested and not have to put up with her crap- possibly for a long time, is she goes to jail-, we should probably bail her out. Explain yourselves to the guards, and show physical evidence when needed.

>>576782
The staff may be fake but they definitely were daemon cultists- our scans can only be fooled by shapeshifters. Unfortunately I don't think our scans are admissible as evidence, so I hope the necklace and amulet are enough. In hindsight I suppose we should've taken one of them alive.

Why don't you go a little closer and find out why those guards are harassing her? If you just abandon the lady in distress she's never going to warm up to you. Also it would be a great shame.

Optimally you would distract the guards with the report of cultists and the evidence so that she can get away.

I'd like to approach them, but we don't know if those guards are real or if they're cultists or somebody else impersonating guards. Unfortunately if they are impersonators they probably have crossbows since the guards have them. That means if you approach and things go wrong there's a decent chance you or Cedric will get shot if you either fight or flee.

I say sneak around and get closer so you can get a better look at the guards and we can scan them; Maybe you'll even be able to listen in. [Scan guards] If they are legit don't just walk out of the bushes; That'll get you shot. Instead call out that you're approaching before approaching, move slow with no sudden movements and keep your hands out where they can see them. That'll significantly lower the chances there's they'll shoot you.

>" what were they d-doing here? They weren’t… I… but…"
There's the possibility that if the cultists have already killed or captured the daemon hunters, then they placed the book there and as a trap for whoever is investigating the hunters' disappearance.

>I don’t… um… she’ll probably be mad that I even put myself in this situation to begin with!
Well, admittedly, yes. But for any good parent that would come second to knowing you made it out safe, and that you could take care of yourself.

...even if you did sneak out when you should have been safe in bed.

>Lucrais!? Are they arresting Lucrais!? They are threating her with their weapons!
Maybe we should approach and find out what the heck is going on.

...granted, getting involved with anything with the guard will pretty much ensure word gets back to your mother. But she'd probably be happy to see the two of you ended up together tonight after all.

Kaktus 2014/06/02(Mon)08:39 No. 576840 ID: 65a774
File 140172355501.png - (12.87KB , 900x450 , 29.png )

>[show pawn EXP/level]
[“The Magician” is level 1*! You will level up in one real world minute!]
>[scan guards]
[Neutral Creature (Friendly): Stone Heaven Guard.]
[Neutral Creature (Friendly): Stone Heaven Guard Lieutenant.]
[“The Chariot” is currently unclaimed!]

>for any good parent being mad would come second to knowing you made it out safe, and that you could take care of yourself... even if you did sneak out when you should have been safe in bed.
She’ll still be mad; even if she’s happy I’m safe!
>She'd probably be happy to see the two of you ended up together tonight after all.
I’m sure she’ll be all swell with me trying to conspire with my bride to be to ruin the wedding and ending up making her hate me even more than before.

>Can you can get any closer so we can hear what's going on?
We’re in the middle of a field... I’m surprised they haven’t seen us yet as it is! So, unless you know a way to hide my fat abdomen in some short grass there’s no way we’re getting closer without them knowing it.
>Although it's tempting to let her get arrested and not have to put up with her crap- possibly for a long time, is she goes to jail…
Hmm… if she’s in jail… she can’t marry me… which means if I just leave her here I… I… I c-can’t… I can’t just leave someone to be arrested when they are innocent, even if it’s Lucrais. Dammit!
>If you just abandon the lady in distress she's never going to warm up to you.
That’s a warm feeling I rather try to avoid. It’s like… being on fire or… pissing your own pants.

>we should approach and find out what the heck is going on.
HALT! You can’t just waltz in here! This is a crime scene! Wait… is that a bloody spear!? STOP RIGHT THERE, CRIM-
Yes, yes, enough private. Hmm… you have to be Daithi, correct? …and your friend is?
Cadet Cedric, Ma’am.
…wait, how did you-
You’re wearing the official commander cadet uniform… and your friend there is wearing the official hat, even if he is wearing heavy armor instead of an uniform for some reason.
Hey, do you know how many times this armor have saved me in field training?
I’m sure it comes in handy. Either way, as far as I know there’s only one male mantis cadet around here, and that would be you, Daithi. Besides, you to take after your father Cathal… if a bit younger… and cuter… and a much nicer, thicker abdo- *Cough* Sorry, I tend to… ah… derail the conversation a bit.
…wait, what was that about his abd-
Now, to focus at the matter at hand… It doesn’t escape me that you two are dragging a bloody spear made out of bone right into a murder scene… care to elaborate?
>If they're legit, tell them about the forest fight.
-So I snatched the spear from him and Cedric finish him off. That’s… err… that’s what happened…
W-we didn’t mean to kill them… it was just… life or death for a while there.
That’s understandable… and if we do find these cultist up there their deaths will be deemed as self-defense. Now, you didn’t happen to pick up anything else that can prove they were… well, probably mad? Meanwhile, Lieutenant, take three of the privates up there and check it out.
Yes, Ma’am!
>The spear may be fake but they definitely were daemon cultists- our scans can only be fooled by shapeshifters. Unfortunately I don't think our scans are admissible as evidence, so I hope the necklace and amulet are enough.
Hmm… this is a weird necklace… what’s it supposed to be? An… eye?
Beats me.
I think it’s supposed to be a blind eye… One of the cultist mentioned “The Deceiver” and I do believe she had a sign that looked like that or… err… something?
…how did you-
Oh, I… eh… I read it in a book… that I… um… “borrowed” from the chapel in the school for a while… I was meaning to return it! Honest!
I’m sure you were… hmm… yes, both the priest and the inquisitor in the school has had a bit of an interest in Daemons… maybe I should give them a visit personally… Either way, thank you for your help, Daithi. Heh, I can’t see why the female mantises always look down on you, you’re both resourceful and quite the looker… in fact, if I was just a few years longer I might have given it a shoot myself… um… *Cough* …I mean, thank you for your assistance, citizen… of course, there’s still the question about why you were up there in the first place.

>There's the possibility that if the cultists have already killed or captured the daemon hunters, then they placed the book there and as a trap for whoever is investigating the hunters' disappearance.
A book? Really?
I’m guessing the Cultist had laid a trap for anyone investigating the Daemon hunters disappearance.
Daemon hunters? You mean those crazy vigilantes? I’m pretty sure there haven’t been any of those around these parts. Trust me; I would know… they aren’t exactly… subtle…
Then who was murdered?
Two foreign merchants… flayed and hung up in the trees… just like the rest… hmm… all the reports I’ve read about concerning these murders has always mentioned foreigners… why doesn’t they use locals?
Unhand me, you cur!
Oh, right! Lucrais!
You know each other? Don’t worry about her, she just… a bit shaken discovering those corpses… of course, she’s a bit… feisty, isn’t she? I was planning on throwing her into a cell for the night until she calmed down but… you know her better than me. What do you think? Will she calm down on her own?

Insert Throw her in prison like the criminal scum she is!_

>I’m sure she’ll be all swell with me trying to conspire with my bride to be to ruin the wedding
Yes, that's a detail that should be left out.

>Will she calm down on her own?
She might, if she realizes the alternative is going to cost her dignity or status. Putting her in a cell will probably make her angrier, if anything.

Lucrais, this is hardy behavior befitting a noble, is it? Disturbing the peace, or quarreling with low-level law enforcement is rather beneath you.

Finally! [Claim The Tower on level up]

Alright Daithi so she probably won't openly thank you if you help her out here, but she will probably resent you more if you don't help her.

And who knows, maybe she will act grateful for once, it's worth a shot.

Man are you just the raging hottie around here or what? You've got old gals swooning after you, young gals that hate your guts still want to bone you.

At this rate you'll lead a legion of ladies into combat, furiously protecting their love captain.

Kaktus 2014/06/02(Mon)10:20 No. 576848 ID: 65a774
File 140172964672.png - (12.01KB , 900x450 , 30.png )

>[Claim The Tower on level up]
[You need to level up before you can claim pawns! You’ll level up in… 1 real world minute!]

>Man are you just the raging hottie around here or what? You've got old gals swooning after you, young gals that hate your guts still want to bone you.
What are you talking about? I’m not… err… not really… um…
>At this rate you'll lead a legion of ladies into combat, furiously protecting their love captain.
By Jove, they’ll probably murder me for trying to swoon several ladies at once…
>Alright Daithi so she probably won't openly thank you if you help her out here, but she will probably resent you more if you don't help her.
Hmm… right… I guess if this will increase the chances of the marriage getting canceled I guess I have to try…

>She might, if she realizes the alternative is going to cost her dignity or status. Putting her in a cell will probably make her angrier, if anything.
Hmmm, you’re right… you should probably talk her down if you can, then.
>And who knows, maybe she will act grateful for once, it's worth a shot.
Lucrais…
Dai!? What in- Keep walking and forget you ever saw me here, you creep!
Is this how a proper lady acts? Disturbing the peace and quarrel with law enforcement?
Of course not, you idiot.
So… you’re not a proper lady? Huh… and I’ve always placed you as one…
I… Shut up, Dai… fine, I get your point. I’ll calm down… even if these ruffians need to learn how to treat a lady with respect!
The only respect we’ll show you is when we escort you to your cell… at least, that would have been the respect we’d shown if Daithi here didn’t convince us that you won’t disturb the peace any longer.
He wh- I- you… I hope you don’t expect a thank you, Dai… Now, might I leave?
You’re free to go for now… as for you Dai and… err…
Cedric.
Cedric… right… as for you two, I need to ask you to keep quiet about this. If you mention this murder or those cultist to anyone without my permission I will have you punish, got it?
Err… all right?
Oh, and keep your noses out of this. This is official guard business and I’m sorry, I rather not endanger anyone else either through words or action. Now go back to the city before they close the gates.

Insert It’s a secret to everybody_

Well that's that, time to return to the room.

>You’ll level up in… 1 real world minute!
>2014/06/02(Mon)08:39
>2014/06/02(Mon)10:20
It's been 101 real-world minutes. Game clock is broken.

>I need to ask you to keep quiet about this. If you mention this murder or those cultist to anyone without my permission I will have you punish, got it?
Cool. Official security reasons to shut up about a secret that would have caused you trouble anyways! Now you can feel morally superior about your cover up.

Tell the captain the both of you will definitely keep your mouths shut about this. You weren't gonna blab it around anyway, so this is just extra reason now to.

Now, hurry on back. I'd like to show that book to the head librarian and ask her why she thought the folks that checked it out were daemon hunters and what they looked like. Then you can check the book out yourself so we can find out what's important about it.

Oh, and FYI, the captain scans as a free pawn named "The Chariot." We've seen her before, depicted in the stained glass window of the same name with a dark-skinned human and a mantis who were angry at each other in front of her. We'll have to wait and see what that means, if anything.

You mentioned you'd read something on the daemon named "The Deceiver." What was it? Did it say what it's preferred form is? 'Cause the stained glass window we saw for the Hanged Man supposedly showed a daemon we hadn't encountered yet, and The Deceiver may be it.

I've been wondering: Could your family and the Lucrais' family come to some agreement that'd ally them and exchange resources the same as if you'd married Lucrais without the marriage? Because I'd think that would actually be better, since it wouldn't put you and Lucrais in a miserable situation.

>>576848
Wait, one more thing. Tell her the librarian said demon hunters took the book. If there were no demon hunters, was she lying, or was she deceived?

Kaktus 2014/06/02(Mon)12:31 No. 576858 ID: 65a774
File 140173751342.png - (16.95KB , 900x450 , 31.png )

>Cool. Official security reasons to shut up about a secret that would have caused you trouble anyways! Now you can feel morally superior about your cover up.
I can’t help feeling guilty about this whole thing anyway…
>You mentioned you'd read something on the daemon named "The Deceiver." What was it?
Err… she was… I dunno… mother of lies or something? I don’t know, the book was about those weird cults that tend to spring up out in the untamed barbarian lands. I didn’t really believe those thing they pray to existed in the first place…
>Could your family and the Lucrais' family come to some agreement that'd ally them and exchange resources the same as if you'd married Lucrais without the marriage?
That’s kind of what we’re doing right now… expect the only resource we really have to offer is my eggs, so to speak.

>Tell the captain the both of you will definitely keep your mouths shut about this.
Good. Now keep safe, you hear?
>Wait, one more thing. Tell her the librarian said demon hunters took the book. If there were no demon hunters, was she lying, or was she deceived?
Err… you have to ask her about that. I have no idea…

…

>Now, hurry on back. I'd like to show that book to the head librarian and ask her why she thought the folks that checked it out were daemon hunters and what they looked like.
Oh, you’re back! Did you get the book!?
Um… yeah… but… err…. Why did you think the guys who checked out this book were daemon hunters?
Did I say that? I must have misspoken...
Then who checked it out?
Hmm… I can’t seem to remember… maybe I misplaced it myself?
Yeah, I’m not buying it. I’ve seen you threaten people with an axe if they so much as looked at a book funny. There’s no way you should just have “misplaced” it.
It doesn’t really matter who borrowed it in the end, does it? The important thing is that you got it back.
>Then you can check the book out yourself so we can find out what's important about it.
HEY! This is the book I took- err… borrowed from the chapel! The book about daemon cults! How did you- this was in my room yesterday!
How rude, taking a book that’s been loaned from the library without permission… you’re such a bad boy, Dai~ you really need to be punished, hmm?~ But where are my manners… I really must thank you for bringing it back… I owe you one… just say the word… and I’ll… do… anything… for you… and I mean anything~
I… err… hehe… um…
Holy crap, dude, she’s into you…
Wha- no, she… she hit on everyone like this!
Not like this!

Insert Paint my house_

>>576858
I don't trust her. Her behavior is suspicious- she sent you right into a trap using a book that was "checked out" by YOU, now she's trying to get you into bed? She's probably a cultist.
[Scan librarian]

Make an excuse to leave. Also, check the tarot book for the description of "The Magician", please.

Told you.

You're definitely a hottie, EMBRACE IT, BECOME THE STUD YOU WERE MEANT TO BE.

Whoa there, Daithi. Crank that abdomen back down and don't let the little head do the thinking for the big head here, so to speak. Something is fishy and I want to make sure it's nothing dangerous before you even start to consider fornication with her. [Scan head librarian]

Think this through. Presumably nobody saw you take the book from the chapel, so it's most likely the chapel priest came to the head librarian and asked her to find the book. She located it in your room, and instead of handing it over she took it out into the forest. Why?

I can think of two possibilities. The more likely one is that she really has the hots for you, but she couldn't bring herself to just proposition you, so she concocted a rather flimsy plan where she could offer sex in return for retrieving the book. And if you didn't come to her and ask about the book, then she'd just bring it back.

The less likely possibility is she's somehow in league with the cultists, and the book was placed out there as trap, probably for the chapel priest or inquisitor. She'd give either of them the stone, they'd head out there and get jumped and killed. But this one makes even less sense 'cause she sent you and Cedric out.

She'll do anything? Well, then compose yourself, turn around, look her right in the eye and ask her to stop insulting your intelligence and tell you the truth; How did a book that nobody else knew you had get from your room all the way out into woods? Try your hardest not to be a doormat here.

>>576864
He already checked the book for that back here >>575815.

Atena can identify you immediately by name and started schmoozing near instantly.
Lucrais, by some bureaucratic fault, was replaced by you in the University roster, and still she can only hate you on principle.
And now the librarian is pulling the 'I'll do anything I mean anything' routine on you.

You're a sexy sumbitch, why did you tell us you weren't a sexy sumbith, you liar. You're also an idiot for running out into the forest to get a book you had all along, you stupid sexy mantis. Tell her you can't call in that favor now, and excuse yourself.

>>576872
Ah, thanks. I forgot The Magician just meant "protagonist" in this case.

Kaktus 2014/06/02(Mon)15:40 No. 576876 ID: 65a774
File 140174882097.png - (17.00KB , 900x450 , 32.png )

>[Scan librarian]
[“The Hanged Man” is currently claimed by the woman in green!]
[Demonic Creature(Friendly): The Woman in Green.]

>Her behavior is suspicious- she sent you right into a trap using a book that was "checked out" by YOU…
Err… actually, it was checked out by someone at the chapel… not me…
>You're definitely a hottie, EMBRACE IT, BECOME THE STUD YOU WERE MEANT TO BE.
I… y-you really mean that? Gosh, I never… I… don’t know about… um… heh…
>You're a sexy sumbitch, why did you tell us you weren't a sexy sumbith, you liar.
I promise, this has never happen before! H-honest!
>Whoa there, Daithi. Crank that abdomen back down and don't let the little head do the thinking for the big head here, so to speak.
R-right, I need to focus… think with the right head… but her touch was- No, focus Dai!

>She'll do anything?
You’ll do anything? Anything at all?
Anything your wildest fantasies can conjure up~
Then do my homewo- I mean, tell me the truth! How did that book end up in the woods?
…aw, man… why don’t you ever go for fun times in the sack... *Grumble*
I’m asking the same thing…
Hmm… about the book… how do I… hmm… “The spider weaves a complex web, where flies dance a final dance, but even the smallest gusts of breath, will tear the complex web asunder.”
So… um… some kind of… manipulation?
Speak Imperial, dammit!
*Sigh* Things happen because other things happen. Just ask Bob or Steve or something…
…who?
Just… go talk to someone else. I’m sure they will be more insightful of the nature of reality collapsing into the abyss. Now, I really need to clean the cover of this book and return it to the chapel… always he chooses the truth… am I to forward? To backwards? But in the books…
Man, you blew it… she sounded rather annoyed.
I- wha- but… she was just… I’m getting confused here… did she just make a 180 turn? *Grumble*

Insert She made a 360 flip with a grab_

Well she's possessed by a daemon so I guess it's a good thing. She's probably trying to distract you from something. Also, apparently she's 'the hanged man' and Atena is 'the chariot'. You may want to look that up.

I guess we should explain: Steve and Bob are also both daemons who we've run into before. Long story short, they aren't so bad and have helped us in the past. future. time travel is confusing. It's always so hard trying to find out what the hell is going on and where everyone's loyalties lie, but they've been pretty reliable. The daemon possessing Libby is also listed as friendly, but we've never encountered her before.

>>576876
Ah. Okay. Nevermind about ths suspicious part. Yeah, I won't tell you what's going on here yet, you'll freak out and I'd like to continue the conversation a bit longer.

Ask her if she's ever heard of someone named Magus, in the Serath kingdom. Was he her... predecessor? Also reassure her that her approach was fine, it's just... your mom would probably kill you.

So wait, she's both currently the woman in green and claimed by the woman in green? How does that work?

Kaktus 2014/06/02(Mon)17:42 No. 576886 ID: 65a774
File 140175615630.png - (16.82KB , 900x450 , 33.png )

>Apparently she's 'the hanged man' and Atena is 'the chariot'. You may want to look that up.
“The Hanged man” is associated with self-sacrifice for the sake of enlightenment, bindings that liberate, paradoxes, juxtaposition between heaven and earth, self-entrapment, passivity and surrender.
“The Chariot” is a symbol of war, victory, conquest, self-assertion and command. The image of mastering, controlling, and leading two opposing forces is prevalent.
>Well she's possessed by a daemon so I guess it's a good thing.
I… WHAT!? HOW IS THAT A GOOD THING!?I’m pretty sure Daemons are bad news!
>I guess we should explain: Steve and Bob are also both daemons who we've run into before. Long story short, they aren't so bad and have helped us in the past. future. time travel is confusing.
You… but… I… they… they are helpful… but… daemons… evil?

>Ask her if she's ever heard of someone named Magus, in the Serath kingdom. Was he her... predecessor?
Oh, him… yes, I know him… he’s… a brother… of sorts… haven’t seen him in… well, before all this…
>Also reassure her that her approach was fine, it's just... your mom would probably kill you.
I’m supposed to be married to someone I hate, after all.
Ah, yes, the marriage… I’ve never understood that part. Completely pointless if you ask me.
Err… My marriage or marriage in general?
Both. Yours is doomed to fail from the start while marriages in general mystify me. How is a ring supposed to bind you together until death? Why even bind yourself to one when a constant rotation is better for the gene pool? Hmm, I’ve been studying you for years but I still don’t understand you at all. I mean, you guys lives just for a few years yet you throw away a third of your time just lying down! *Grumble* Never mind that… I need to go back into my head librarian persona and return the book now… *Sigh* Let’s see… smile… breathe… watch were you walk… wait, did I use that sigh correctly? Hmm…

Insert She’s read everything about it_

Yeah she's one of the bound daemons alright.

Unlike the Magus, who prefers the sensation of eating and food, she probably enjoys lustful things. No offense and all. We know your brother well over there..

Wait if you are here, then that means there's a vault close by!?

>>576886
Alright, that's interesting. I figured the Magus was unique since he was a failed experiment in making a Harvester, but apparently not. I wonder if she's a successful Harvester, or the same design? I'm not sure why Harvesters were being created, actually. They don't seem to be used for anything. Maybe we'll find out later.

Yes, most Daemons are evil. There are exceptions, however. Steve is quite benevolent, and Bob is mainly interested in keeping the Daemons from killing most of the mortal population and therefore killing themselves from eventual starvation. Daemons feed off of emotions- fear is filling, while hope is tasty.

The marriage is doomed, apparently? I wonder if that's unavoidable, or something she's saying to get you to reconsider her offer. Either way, let's get going. She doesn't want to talk anymore and you should get to bed. Call down Cedric from the bookcases.

Hey, if the marriage IS doomed, who would you prefer to be with instead?

What's good for the gene pool and what's good for society are two different things.

Well I'm guessing you're just bursting with questions, so ask away. We'll fill you in to the best of our ability, but I'm afraid that we don't know much either.

And it sounds like we can't call off our conspiring to call off the wedding just yet.

Alright, Daithi, daemon primer time. Daemons are immortal extra-dimensional and -temporal entities that subsist on mortal emotions; Good emotions like happiness are tasty, bad ones like fear are filling. They are not inherently evil, just alien in thought and form. Bob and Steve are part of the ruling faction of daemons that seeks to seal the daemon realm from this world, preventing all daemons from meddling in it. The rebel daemon faction seeks to throw open the gates to this world so they can fuel overthrowing Bob and Steve's faction by eating most of the mortals. For either side to do what they want requires a majority of the four Words of the World, each one sealed in an ancient vault with a weakened daemon bound to watch over it. Libby here is possessed by one such watch daemon, The Woman in Green. Oh, and Bob and Steve are just the names mortals gave them; Their real names are impossible for mortals to comprehend, let alone say.

I think you can figure out why we threw in with the side who's winning doesn't result in most everybody being killed and daemons roaming the world.

Tell her that the threat of maternal wrath was only part of it. There were also two hostile daemon cultists that attacked you hanging around the book, so afterwards you were extra paranoid about how it got there. But even if there were no cultists out there you can't just ignore that logically she, as the head librarian, was the one with the means to find the book in your room and move it out there, so you wanted to know why she'd do such a thing.

Ask her if this was a case where if you'd chosen to jump in the sack, you'll have always chosen to. But if it isn't then what would it have meant if you had chosen something other than asking for the truth.

Oh, and say that since she seemed to be annoyed about putting on her persona and returning the book that she did use that sigh correctly. Then get going; The lady is probably sick of answering your questions all the times she has by now. If you wish you can share what we said with Cedric and White once you're in your quarters.

Well, since the being that can see futures said your marriage to Lucrais is doomed from the start, that's all the more reason to work even harder to get out of it. Unfortunately, I have the feeling that the only way to get there will involve extensively angering your mother.

While I don't agree with Libby about marriage being pointless, I do think that being stuck with someone until death do you part is stupid. The chances that that person will be somebody you can stand and will stand by you a year later, let alone to the end of your days, are ridiculously small. It'd be far better to live together first, that way you can break off when it's apparent things are never going to work out and look for someone new until you find someone you'd want to marry for good.

And I think you really should get laid before you get married, just so you have at least one good sexual experience in case you fail in getting the marriage called off, 'cause otherwise the only sex you ever will have will be angry, violent and for purpose of procreation only; Basically the worst. And really, what're they gonna do if you do get laid? Call off the marriage? If only it was that easy. Of course you don't have to jump into bed with the first lady who shows interest. You've got a few months until the wedding, so you can find someone who you enjoy being with to lose your virginity to. Yes, your mother will be furious if she finds out, but what could she do other than bellow and fume? Kill you for real? She won't do that to her son, and even if she did she may as well call off the wedding instead 'cause it's the same result for the family. Disown you? Same outcome. Really, has she ever done anything more than yell and stomp about when she's angry with you? Why live in fear of that when you can live it up until the proverbial ball 'n' chain is clamped on or the marriage is called off?

>You… but… I… they… they are helpful… but… daemons… evil?
Remember your explanation about gods? If they exist, they're just very powerful different beings.

Turns out demons work the same way. They're basically people with different powers and requirements for survival. And some of them are major dicks. Others aren't.

>How is a ring supposed to bind you together until death?
It's not. It's symbolic of the voluntary contract you accept to bind you together. Symbols are powerful, and matter deeply to mortal perspectives.

>Why even bind yourself to one when a constant rotation is better for the gene pool?
Because you're not taking everything into account. Yes, many partners and spreading genetic material around means more variation, which is good. However, bonding and investment in your young comes with significant cooperative advantages that increase the odds of survival of your genes.

There's also the fact that most mortals don't use genetic or evolutionary logic directly (or consciously) to make their decisions. The decision to tie yourself to one person is often emotionally based. Or sometime for political or social or economic advantage. Conflicting priorities, as it were.

Kaktus 2014/06/03(Tue)07:31 No. 576944 ID: 65a774
File 140180590779.png - (16.67KB , 900x450 , 34.png )

>Alright, Daithi, daemon primer time…
Well, that was a bit complicated… It’s starting to get a bit gray doesn’t it… I don’t like gray. Everything being black and white like in the books is so much simpler…
>Hey, if the marriage IS doomed, who would you prefer to be with instead?
Err… I don’t… know? I mean, I haven’t really… you know… considering being with someone forever for real I guess… um… someone I like being with… I guess? Someone that shares a few of my hobbies and… um… someone with a nice, thick abdomen and long legs maybe? …or a nice, firm butt with either a nice, thick tail base or a pair of big, round breasts… I’m a man of many tastes after all… err… I mean… The first part, the personally, is more important, of course, but… nice looks are a plus…
>And I think you really should get laid before you get married.
While I appreciate your help with… um… that, I rather… err... can’t I keep that a bit more private, please?
>And really, what're they gonna do if you do get laid? Call off the marriage? If only it was that easy.
Well, mother can get me kicked out of the school if she gets mad enough… and take away my WarStorm miniatures. Lucrais, on the other hand, can probably lock me in a gilded cage for the rest of my life if she wanted too…
>You've got a few months until the wedding, so you can find someone who you enjoy being with to lose your virginity to.
I’ve been looking for someone for years, what makes you think I would find someone in just a few months… except that everyone seems suddenly more interested in my today than usual…

>Wait if you are here, then that means there's a vault close by!?
Of course, it’s hidden real close by~
Really? Where?
Right here! *Smack* Hidden in my well curved abdomen. All you need to is to search for it… using your tongue~
whao, whoa, slow down… way to forward!
Really? Hmm… Let me write that down…. How about… it’s hidden between my mandibles?
Still rather forward…
>The marriage is doomed, apparently? I wonder if that's unavoidable, or something she's saying to get you to reconsider her offer.
What do you mean, the marriage is doomed?
Someone says the wrong words to the right person… or the right words to the wrong person and everything never was in the first last place.
…I… err… what?
Then you chose another option and everything is as it was and will be in the past of the futures present.
…again, what?
>It's not. It's symbolic of the voluntary contract you accept to bind you together. Symbols are powerful, and matter deeply to mortal perspectives.
Symbols? Yes, you’re right… symbols of this thing you call love… hmm… another symbol of love is a heart, correct? If I brought you a heart would you make love to me? I want to feel this love thing. Hmm… is it supposed to be an animal heart or a humans or lizards or…
Err… I rather that you didn’t bring me any hearts at all!
>Bonding and investment in your young comes with significant cooperative advantages that increase the odds of survival of your genes.
…you mean those small things? I’ve been wondering about those… why don’t the big ones just eat the smaller ones?
…you got to be kidding, right?
Maybe~
>Ask her if this was a case where if you'd chosen to jump in the sack, you'll have always chosen to. But if it isn't then what would it have meant if you had chosen something other than asking for the truth.
You always choose the truth, never anything else… if you did choose something else it would be a pleasant surprise. Especially if you choose to love me this time. Man, Steven is going around waving around the fact he can feel love and I can’t! I want to feel it too! It’s not fair! It makes me feel… I don’t understand what I feel…
Jealousy… envy?
Hmm… Envy… *Click*Clack* …that sound… fitting somehow…

>Either way, let's get going. She doesn't want to talk anymore and you should get to bed. Call down Cedric from the bookcases.
Hey, Ced, it’s time to-
*Crash!*
Woops…
DAMMIT CEDRIC!! That will take at least an hour to clean up!
Um… well, I do-
You’re going nowhere! Don’t make me bring out the battle axe and severe those legs of yours to make you stay! *Sigh* Now I won’t have time to get the book to the chapel before they closes… dammit Cedric…
Sorry…
…oh, hey, I actually sighted! And I’m feeling genially angry! Yes!! I think I am finally getting the hang of this!
…does that me- OW!!
Start cleaning this mess up or I’ll hurt you for real!!

Insert you can't just have your characters announce how they feel! That makes me feel angry!_

Well, good luck with those emotions, Libby. And good luck surviving, Cedric.

Now skitter the heck out of here.

Speaking of surviving, angry woman glaring from the corner.

Also while you are getting the hang of the emotions greenie, sudden red eyes are not something the average mantid can do!

Also love is a hard emotion to process, even mortals can't get a hold of it sometimes.

Heads up, Daithi; The attendant is behind you, next to the mirror, with crossed arms and a cross expression. ...Hey, what's her name so we don't have to keep calling her "attendant?" It's getting awkward doing that.

Walk over to Libby, out earshot of the attendant, and point out that she should keep that eye color thing in check; It's not something regular folk can do and will unnerve people. And tell her that the longer she's in this form, the easier it'll be to get the hang of emotions. Body does influence mind, after all.

Offer to return the book to the chapel for Libby. That'll give you the opportunity to apologize for taking it and clear up a bit of guilt. I also want to have a look at the priest and inquisitor since I suspect either or both of them was depicted in the tarot windows; Maybe have a chat with them about daemons and cultists.

Kaktus 2014/06/03(Tue)10:05 No. 576953 ID: 65a774
File 140181512421.png - (15.82KB , 900x450 , 35.png )

>Angry woman glaring from the corner.
Oh, crap… the attendant!
>Hey, what's her name so we don't have to keep calling her "attendant?" It's getting awkward doing that.
Well, her name is… err… she’s called… um… A… At… Atten… Attendant? Yeah, I have no idea what her name actually is.

>Walk over to Libby, out earshot of the attendant, and point out that she should keep that eye color thing in check; It's not something regular folk can do and will unnerve people.
You don’t? Are you sure? But they did it in these picture books I found!
They are probably fiction, you know, made up.
Hmm… that would explain why I can’t summon a large drop of water whenever Cedric does something stupid… wait, does this mean that lovemaking doesn’t involve tentacles?
I… what? Of course it doesn’t involve tentacles!
Huh… that would explain a lot, actually…
>Offer to return the book to the chapel for Libby. That'll give you the opportunity to apologize for taking it and clear up a bit of guilt.
Oh? Why, thank you! I’ll remember to… reward you later~
Still a bit too forward…

>Now skitter the heck out of here.
*Cough*
Err… hi?
Do you know what time it is?
Um… ten past eight?
And when did you promise to be back?
Err…
Here’s a hint, it was before eight ‘o’clock!
But I just need to return this book a-
No buts! March that abdomen of yours straight back to your room this instant or I’ll tell your mother you ran out into the dark forest all alone! …and that you were hitting on the librarian trying to get laid!
But I d-
MARCH!!

Insert My sister just got a kid, I’m an uncle now… dammit, I feel old now…_

Welp, can't avoid it any longer.

March back to thine room.

>Of course it doesn’t involve tentacles!
Usually doesn't involve tentacles. It can.

>what do
Apologize for your tardiness and go to bed, already.

>and that you were hitting on the librarian trying to get laid!
...okay, you have every right to be annoyed with me, but give me a little credit. Have you met her? She was hitting on me, not the other way.

Hey, that's not right! When you left the attendant said to be back by nine, not eight! She moved the time on you! Call back to Cedric to tell you when she said to be back as evidence and call her out on it. Also, when you left Cedric said you had three and a half hours to get back, so what time do you all remember leaving at?

Whether the attendant stands down or not, take the book and start walking to the chapel. You were told to be back by nine 'o clock and by Jove you were back before nine; You're in the right here so stick to it and don't be a doormat. Tell her that you'll be in your quarters by nine and if afterwards she still wants to admit to your mother that she failed in her duty and risk being reprimanded, then that's her choice.

Say you were out patching things up with Lucrais and that your mother would probably be happy with you doing so even if it did mean you had to be out late.

Kaktus 2014/06/03(Tue)12:07 No. 576966 ID: 65a774
File 140182242419.png - (16.52KB , 900x450 , 36.png )

>Usually doesn't involve tentacles. It can.
Yeah, I’m pretty sure REAL LIFE doesn’t involve tentacles… at all…

>...okay, you have every right to be annoyed with me, but give me a little credit. Have you met her? She was hitting on me, not the other way.
I haven’t met her, no, but I’m pretty sure she got enough class to not whore herself out to everyone.
>Say you were out patching things up with Lucrais and that your mother would probably be happy with you doing so even if it did mean you had to be out late.
You snuck off to Lucrais even after you heard she had taken ill!?
Actually, We kind of just… um… met her on accident.
…doesn’t really matter what you were doing. You should have been back before eight!
>Hey, that's not right! When you left the attendant said to be back by nine, not eight!
Hey, wait… you said Nine, not eight!
No, I did not.
No, I’m pretty sure… I mean, you gave us three and a half hours to get back which means… HEY, CED!? When did we leave the school today?
Um… half past five? Why?
And when were we supposed to be back?
Before nine.
Ha!
…fine, you got one hour more. But so help me, if you aren’t back before nine…
I’ll be back before nine, don’t worry.

…

>Whether the attendant stands down or not, take the book and start walking to the chapel.
Hello? Anyone here… ah, there you are… err… you’re the priest here, right? …hello? I’m just here to leave a book from the library and… I know it’s rude to disturb someone praying but geez… you don’t need to ignore me completely… Hey! HEY!! ANSWEAR ME!!

Insert /Ignore Daithi_

just trust us on the tentacle thing... we've seen some shit...

[scan masked mantis]
[scan Nick Fury human]

There's a really pissed-off looking mantis behind you that appears to be missing a lot of limbs.

>>576966
Oh hey, it's Strength, and the mantis from the window. I guess it was a mask all along. What does the big painting depict? Oh, the guy you're trying to talk to might be deaf. Just wait, maybe talk to the mantis instead.

Also uh, um. If there are seven Vaults and Harvesters then I will just fucking flip. Magus was Gluttony, Libby is Envy. At least this time Envy isn't crazy-evil, just emotionally challenged. I think we will want to ask Libby more about the Harvesters later.

Kaktus 2014/06/03(Tue)14:26 No. 576989 ID: 65a774
File 140183079425.png - (16.35KB , 900x450 , 37.png )

>[scan masked mantis]
[“The Forsaken Lion” is currently unclaimed!]
>[scan Nick Fury human]
[“Strength” is currently unclaimed!]

>Just trust us on the tentacle thing... we've seen some shit...
…so… um… should I save time and start crying myself to sleep right now or…?
>What does the big painting depict?
It’s a window… and I think it’s supposed to symbolize the eternal rebirth what with the hourglass and stuff… I don’t know, I’m not really religious.

>There's a really pissed-off looking mantis behind you that appears to be missing a lot of limbs.
Ahh!! Oh, it’s just… um… you scared me a bit there, ma’am… err… hello? …are you going to ignore me too?
>Oh, the guy you're trying to talk to might be deaf. Just wait, maybe talk to the mantis instead.
Right, you’re either both deaf or just mean. Hey, don’t just walk past me and start fiddling with the priest…
…ah, I’m sorry, I didn’t see you come in. … …yes, I got a bit of a hearing problem… so please speak slowly, would you be so kind…
Err… what is she doing to your arm?
… … …oh, she’s my ears, so to speak. She can’t talk herself, what with her missing… um… but enough about our problems, what about your problems?
…actually, I’m just h-
Hmm, does it have to do with your soul being tainted by demonic powers? Hmm… I haven’t felt this kind of corruption since my youth… it’s weak… but it’s there…
Wait, what?
You haven’t, say, heard a bunch of voices speaking in legion, have you? Nasty sort, those things… Hmm, I should probably call the inquisitor on you… who knows, maybe you’re a cultist…

Insert There is medicine for that sort of thing these days_

>The Forsaken Lion
Oh hey, it's Faffers.

>someone else knows about us
Cool! Tell him we say hi. There's a lot of daemons, you've only mostly seen the nastier ones, we're relatively benign. Not that we have any evidence other than our word, and given that he uses "demon" and not "daemon", he probably doesn't know all that much.

>>576989
Eh? Corruption? Let me check.
[check corruption levels]
Don't tell him about us. He'll jump to conclusions. We are not demons or gods or aliens, we're something else. Not sure what.

Instead, tell him you killed some demon cultists very recently, and he's probably picking up some residual corruption. Go ahead and describe your encounter, and that the guards can confirm your story.

Ask him about his experiences in his youth.

Hmm. Maybe we picked up some residual corruption from the cultists. [Check corruption level]

I suspect he's bluffing about sensing that you have daemonic taint and bringing up the inquisitor just to see how you react. If this guy really could sense daemonic power then Libby would have raised all the red flags he's got sky high if she was anywhere near him. So just don't lose your cool and hopefully we'll come out of this fine.

I think a bit of truth here might help get him off of you. Act a little reluctant before saying that you used to see things and hear voices before you started taking medication for it, but they never spoke in legion. And you're pretty certain it wasn't demonic or the like 'cause your family took you to bunch priests and such to check for that, so you don't know why he's sensing such from you.

Walk over and hand the book to him while saying you came here to return it, then apologize for taking it. Say that you're interested in such things, and if he doesn't mind maybe he could tell you about the experience in his youth he mentioned.

That window, where would the beam of light from the hourglass happen to be hitting the world? Near Stone Heaven, perhaps? I think next time you're in the library you should look up what the symbolism of that window is.

...Man, that mask is creeping me the fuck out...

>>576991
No, do not tell him about us! We can't risk you getting hauled in by the inquisitor. Even if you check out it'll most likely take so long you won't be able to get back before nine. And if you don't check out... Well, what could happen if you don't? You'd know more about that then us, but I'm imagining nothing good.

>>576992
Don't tell him about the cultists! The captain said she'd punish you if you spoke about that to anybody. The captain's also planning to speak with him, so it'll almost certainly come out that you spoke to him about it. So keep your mouth shut!

Kaktus 2014/06/03(Tue)16:42 No. 577005 ID: 65a774
File 140183894069.png - (17.12KB , 900x450 , 38.png )

>[check corruption levels]
[Corruption levels at 0%]

>I suspect he's bluffing about sensing that you have daemonic taint and bringing up the inquisitor just to see how you react.
Hmm, probably… of course, that begs the question; does he accuse everyone who enters the chapel or just me?
>Do not tell him about us! We can't risk you getting hauled in by the inquisitor.
Yeah, let’s put “Not being tortured” and “Not being burned alive for demon worshipping” on top of the to-do list, alright?
>Don't tell him about the cultists! The captain said she'd punish you if you spoke about that to anybody.
And let’s not piss off that hot piece of tail either.

>Walk over and hand the book to him while saying you came here to return it, then apologize for taking it.
… …So you’re not here because of the demon taint?
The librarian asked me to give it to you.
… …A book about demon cults?
Err… you borrowed it, didn’t you?
…Indeed I did…
>I think a bit of truth here might help get him off of you. Act a little reluctant before saying that you used to see things and hear voices before you started taking medication for it, but they never spoke in legion.
Hmm… blood on the walls telling you not to trust people?
Err… how did y-
A female voice whispering in the night, seeding paranoia? Everyone around you suddenly seems to be against you? Shadows that aren’t supposed to be there? People saying things they aren’t saying?
…how the hell did you know that I usually hallucinate that!?
… … …Who said anything about hallucinations, hmm?

>Ask him about his experiences in his youth.
Why do I get the feeling you aren’t telling me everything? Who are you, even?
… … …I am a simple priest who goes by the name of Nickolas Irat.
…wait… Irat!? As in general Irat!?
… … …you’ve actually heard about me?
Of course! You’re kind of a war hero, right? Err… not a really famous one but a war hero none the less… but… didn’t General Irat get assassinated by a mercenary from across the sea?
… … …Oh, she tried to, I give her that… but in the end fate had other plans.
...other plans?
…You know of the untamed lands, yes? The land filled with barbarians and… worse? If you read the book you stole then you should know that there are also demon cults out there.
Err… what does that have to do you surviving an assassination attempt?
… … …I was attacked by this assassin when I was on my lonesome… she was able to poison me but before she should land the killing blow I was able to knock her out… of course, that’s were one of these cults comes in… the cult of the deceiver, they called themselves. They found us, weakened and beaten, and dragged us to their hideout in the middle of nowhere.
And then you had some epic fight with them while you escaped? You got the imperial army to rescue you?
… …Five years… for five years they tortured us for fun…
Err… then you escaped your bonds and broke the torturer’s neck with your-
They outnumbered me thirty to one… brute force would only lead to death… like it always does. No, I spoke with them… questioned them… and when the time came, I gave them the opportunity to seek forgiveness. Some of them did, others… well, their bones are probably gone by now.
…wait, why does the history books say you died?
… … …They don’t, they simply said I disappeared. They deemed it unimperial that I came back, swore of violence completely and became religious…

Insert Censoring the man!_

>>577005
Oh dear. Okay you DO have a problem with your soul- that's where the hallucinations are coming from. We know of someone else with a similar corruption though his symptoms are more along the lines of food tasting like ash and excessive bloodlust. Ask how you can cleanse yourself of the corruption. The other guy did so by carrying around a blessed weapon. Not sure if there are paladins around here though so that might be hard to find. Oh, and we should probably get the mantis's name while we're at it.

Speaking of which who's that behind you?
[scan armored lizard]

[scan Daithi]

Perhaps he could teach you to command? You might be smart, but this guy has experience to back it up. It might motivate him to act if you tell him that the cult of the deceiver is apparently killing people in the city now, and that they attacked you and a friend.

What became of that assassin?

>>577014
The assassin is his mantis assistant, obviously. That's why she has such a weird mask.

...Wow. He's more than a war hero; He's a frickin' saint! That his story was suppressed by the Empire is a terrible shame. The people of Amun should hear of such an act of forgiveness and that even among the wicked there can be redemption. If such a thing is "un-Imperial," then the Empire's ain't worth a hill of beans!

Approach him and ask what you can do to confirm if you've been tainted by the Deceiver, and if you are if there's anything you can do to rid yourself of the taint, or at least suppress or keep it in check. There's also the question of where and how you were tainted. You said you've had the voices and hallucinations since forever, so you must have been tainted when you were but an infant or maybe even before you were born. Do you know where you or your mother were back then?

I didn't notice it until Nikolas mentioned the assassin being from across the sea, but his mantis "ears" is wearing an outfit in a style from the Marches south of the Serath. That taken with with her having such horrible wounds and him saying the assassin was female leads me to believe that she was the assassin. It says much of him that he could forgive and make a friend of her.

And we forgot to mention this, but Nickolas scanned as "Strength," his "ears" scanned as "The Forsaken Lion," and we saw them both depicted in the tarot window for Strength. Look up what the Strength card means; It's quite fitting for Nickolas.

Also, heads up; A lizard clad in red and white armor with a red cross on the chest just showed up. That the Inquisitor? [Scan lizard in armor]

>>577014
Again, keep your mouth shut about the cultists. You promised not to tell, and we don't want to raise the ire of the city guard captain by blabbing. Nikolas will be informed of the cultists soon enough when the captain comes to speak with him.

Kaktus 2014/06/04(Wed)07:52 No. 577090 ID: 65a774
File 140189356533.png - (17.01KB , 900x450 , 39.png )

>[scan Daithi]
[“The Magician” Status: Confused, scared]
>[scan armored lizard]
[“The Stars” are currently unclaimed!]

>...Wow. He's more than a war hero; He's a frickin' saint! That his story was suppressed by the Empire is a terrible shame.
Well… A lot of the Imperial ideology is still all about how being the strongest is good and stuff… They’ve never really liked pacifism.
>Oh dear. Okay you DO have a problem with your soul- that's where the hallucinations are coming from.
I’m pretty sure I’m just crazy, not possessed…

>The assassin is his mantis assistant, obviously. That's why she has such a weird mask.
Wait… your assistant is… err… was the assassin!?
… …was it so obvious? Yes, she tried to murder me for money a few years back.
And you forgave her!?
… … …Do not judge someone for the deeds they have done, but the deeds that will do.
…still, if I was you I wouldn’t trust her at all!
… …Saving someone at the cost of your own safety from the maws of hell itself does bring out the loyalty of people, doesn’t it?
>Oh, and we should probably get the mantis's name while we're at it.
… …It’s Thyna.
>Ask what you can do to confirm if you've been tainted by the Deceiver, and if you are if there's anything you can do to rid yourself of the taint, or at least suppress or keep it in check.
… …you are tainted, of that I am certain. I now that smell well… I’ve been tainted myself after all…
So, how can I fight it?
… …That is something that’s probably best to ask an inquisitor about. They are the ones fighting the demons corruption.
Err… don’t they generally just burn people alive and stuff?
… …Only if you are worshipping a demon. It’s the safest way to root them out, after all. Oh, and speaking of inquisitors, the schools resident Inquisitor is right behind you.
Greetings to mantis! I overheard you had problem, yes?
Err… wait, why does the school have a inquisitor on staff?
Oh, I’m simply… how you say… student of inquisitor. The academy only needs one of us to rebuild wards of magic and in case of emergency, yes? Is it not good place to learn the ropes before becoming real inquisitor? Now, you said you had daemon problem, yes?
Um…
He is corrupted. One of them has been in his mind and… I don’t know if they tried to turn him to their side or if they wanted to dispose of him… or if they just did it for fun.
Well, that good news, no need to collect the kindle and wood then, yes? We simply clean your life of corruption. Now, how you feel? Angry? Slow and dull? Paranoid?
Um… well… I tend to see things that aren’t there…
Ah, the lying one, then. Hmm… do you remember everything? When did you start?
Err… yeah, I remember everything, I guess? …and… I’m pretty sure I’ve always been like this… well, not as bad as this… it got a bit worse over time… at least until I got medication. Err… why wouldn’t I remember everything?
The lying one like to steal memories. We don’t know why but she seems to collect them for purpose not known to us. She is rather greedy for them, yes? Now …you said worse over time? Hm... not good, no? That’s mean… how you say… hmm… that means that… place were corruption is born is close to you, yes? It has to be weak if you’re still not cultist after all this time but if it has gotten worse than it is has to be near you.
…wait, what do you mean, near me?
Do you believe someone near you is cultist? Someone near you is trying to drive you mad, yes? Hmm… maybe they want to sacrifice, yes? But… they like sacrificing people who are not yet man or women and haven’t done thing in bed yet, yes? That means someone as pretty as you is safe, no? How you say… someone with your shape is bound to have friend of girl, yes?
Err… well…

Insert Da!_

>I’m pretty sure I’m just crazy, not possessed…
Well, they're two different ways to look at the same problem. One as a problem of the mind, the other as a problem of the spirit.

Problem is, we can't dismiss the later as being without base because we know external mental influences are possible. Players like ourselves speak to pieces, wraiths and demons and corruption can take hold in people. Not that mental illness independent from that does not exist, and deserve to be treated seriously, but we don't have a good means to distinguish between possible causes of you condition.

At the very least, it won't hurt to see if the spiritual model offers any help the medical model hasn't so far.

>you believe someone near you is cultist?
You're asking me if there's anyone I've known and trusted for years who might have secretly been tormenting me and planning to kill me? ...how would I know that! And that's a terrible thing to suggest to someone with paranoia problems!

>Err… well…
Well, congrats, Dathi. Getting laid just became a matter of life and death for you.

What sort of accent is he running there?

Though at the same time it seems we are about to go on a quest..A bed quest apparently.

Though at the same time I am curious, while I'm fine with trusting them I'd be concerned if they could figure out we were here.