>>46529469


“It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, but who are you really?” Says the young Hylon girl with wispy antennae atop her head, Victoria the Worm.

Light shimmers through tall elegantly crafted windows, the work of a master at play as the glass lets in sparkling light that beams lavishly through scarlet curtains with a golden embroidery and styled with paisley leaves and roses. As the light dances through upon the room, it graces beautiful cherrywood furnishing and the velvet of masterwork chairs providing a rich atmosphere to the study.

From there, bookshelves that tower up on high towards what looks like at least three stories are completely stocked with books, and though you can't tell from here, you'd reckon that they were in alphabetical order by title and author, somehow.

Odette stands by your side, her white hair blushed by the lightest of reds by the warm timely atmosphere of the library. She's pensive, and a touch rigid at the idea of returning to a Hylon manor, the scars of her last bend with them fresh. Odette's fingers flex and unflex as she's ready to draw her bow at any time, despite the fact that the guard insisted on taking her arrows at the door. The dirt from your most recent adventure is still upon her as it is you, and not quite so much Biz.

Biz, whom apparently arrived here before you, sits at one of the many tables in this library, seemingly spurned by the young lady cutting him off mid-balad upon your arrival. He tries not to look so glum, instead rolling his eyes onto other locations and admiring the fine work of the rugs, bookcases and furniture.

>>46529487

>Victoria's Waltz
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yrmBkNahcNg

Before you, stands the self-introduced “Victoria The Worm” smiling gleefully from behind half-rimmed spectacles that allow her dusky lavender eyes to show off the cuts of the diamond shape within her eyes. With long black feathery hair tied back in a simple ponytail, her silvery antennae bob up and down atop her head as she moves. Her black dress dances just below her knees, white trim and lacing adding an elegant flair to an otherwise simple yet delicate dress. “Oh, Miss! I'm sorry!” Her hands are at her mouth almost instantly as her eyes widen and then squeeze shut, “I was so excited that I forgot how one might greet or perform etiquette in this sort of meeting. You're a hero, but also a peasant, yet you're not already kneeling or kissing my hand, and, oh, um, I need a book about this.” Hurriedly, she runs off to a section of her library and rolls over a ladder, hastily climbing for a particular book.

“Madame.” A servant clears his throat as he humbly expresses his concern, “In our last archiving of this library, there were no books concerning meeting heroes...” The servant looks to you with a simply droll expression, his long face explicit of a few Hylon features with the overall hardness of a dutiful Danhor. “Though, it is indeed to be expected that the hero pay homage to the daughter of a Lord, or in this case The Count, with a proper curtsy and smile so as to not upset the social conventions of tradition.”

“But, they are my guest, the normal routine applies there too?” Victoria slides down, sighing out her anxious relief. Walking back over to you with a lady-like gait and standing tall, at least for her youth, she seems to put on a haughty facade as she awaits your homage.

>>46529531

>[“My lady, I believe he is wrong, it is I that you should pay homage to.”]
>[“Odette, This is also a Hylon? She's actually kind of adorable... In a way.”]
>[Curty graciously to put the young woman at ease.]
>[Write in.]

>>46529569
>[Curty graciously to put the young woman at ease.]

>>46529569
>[“Odette, This is also a Hylon? She's actually kind of adorable... In a way.”]

>>46529569
>[Curty graciously to put the young woman at ease.]
You're suprisingly on time

>>46529569
>[Curty graciously to put the young woman at ease.]
And whisper to Odette
>[“Odette, This is also a Hylon? She's actually kind of adorable... In a way.”]

>>46529569
>[Curty graciously to put the young woman at ease.]
Make a mental note to kick Biz's ass

>>46529793
Oh, what for?

>>46529810
No reason in particular

>>46529569
this >>46529753

>>46529569
>[Curty graciously to put the young woman at ease.]

>>46529569

Resisting the urge to tease the girl further, you play at grabbing the edges of your imaginary skirts, and lifting them up as you bend your knees. It's a moment after that you realize that your body is strangly familiar to such a courtly gesture. “T'is a pleasure to make your acquaintance my lady. To what-” Your eyes shoot a glare to biz that Victoria seems not to notice, yet the bard visibly shivers in his seat under your intense stare. “- Do I owe this pleasure?”

“Oh!” Victoria brings her hands to her chest, clasping her hands as though to contain her excitement, “I, um...” She takes a breath and puts on the facade of elegance again, “I simply had to make your acquaintance after hearing of your eyes from one of my father's guests. When the guard had told me that you had returned, I simply knew that I must take the chance to invite you here. After all- I've only read books of those with silver eyes before. Though by your dress and your...” Victoria looks to Biz, whom realizes he's been noticed again and smiles like a suave idiot, raising his eyebrows. The girl looks back unphazed, “Blithering idiot's ballad-” her sweet and elegant tone remains unchanged, “I know you as Belinda the Eternal. Who would have known that you had Silver eyes. The books that described your encounters always spoke of you having burning ambers that were as beautiful as Sol rising in the morne.”

Victoria bows her head abruptly, her whispy silver antennae following suit, “I'm sorry if I was rude in greeting you.” She rises up, giving her best smile, though it turns out a bit forced and awkward as her mouth twists, “Social conventions are a tacky thing to research. Everyone has their own thoughts and opinions about the matter that empirical results and evidence are simply impossible to pin down. It's as hard to understand as the arts.”

>>46530140

As Victoria carries on, you lean over to Odette, whom lends you an ear, the girl's obviously not paying attention as she rambles. “This is also a Hylon?” You whisper, “She's almost cute... Almost.”

“Don't let that fool you.” Odette replies, “This girl is definitely suspicious, even if she is a bit of a fool.”

“Hey, who are you calling a fool?” Victoria glares at Odette, her brow furrowing, “I'll have you know that I've killed potential Kings of knowledge for the last four years! And I won't even take the pact of a jack. Stupid, savage Makoh, have you no shame to know the social conventions of your betters?”

Odette's muscle twitches and you know what's coming next as she makes to raise her hand...

>[Stop Odette, this is really not the time for this.]
>[Let it happen, the girl deserves a good slap to the face for that one.]
>[Facetiously agree with Victoria's analysis to deflect the ire.]
>[Slap the girl yourself.]
>[Write in.]

>>46530140
>The books that described your encounters always spoke of you having burning ambers that were as beautiful as Sol rising in the morne
Oh shit
Fucking bookish lolis

>>46530162
>[Let it happen, the girl deserves a good slap to the face for that one.]
I want to see the result.
For research

>>46530162
>[Facetiously agree with Victoria's analysis to deflect the ire.]

>>46530162
>[Stop Odette, this is really not the time for this.]

>>46530162
>[Stop Odette, this is really not the time for this.]
Oh boy social situations aren't Odette's best

>>46530162
>[Let it happen, the girl deserves a good slap to the face for that one.]

>>46530162
>[Facetiously agree with Victoria's analysis to deflect the ire.]
Angering her doesn't seem smart

>>46530162
>[Facetiously agree with Victoria's analysis to deflect the ire.]
Try probing for information on silver eyes

>>46530162

Victoria watches Odette's hand raise up into the air, seemingly stupefied like a darling deer caught by a Dire Wolf. In the moments before Odette strikes her, you deftly catch her hand, deflecting it away with a fluid strike of your own and a smile plastered upon your face. “My, my, Savage Mako indeed.” You look to Odette, giving her a stern glare. “However, I am glad to have her with me.” Turning back to your host, “If only dire wolves could slay themselves, no?” You force out a laugh.

Victoria stares at you for a moment before her awestruck face breaks, showing a wretchedly forced nervous smile and a simulated laugh. The girl gingerly touches her arm for comfort, “Um, I'm sorry if I offended. I get mad when people call me a fool. I'm not blind, I can see that she was going to strike me.” Her voice is meek as her cheeks are painted with embarrassment.

Odette looks at you, and then swallows before crossing her arms like a parent. “... I should be mindful, you're still learning, aren't you?”

“Always!” Victoria's mood changes, a real smile beams now, like a switch. “I tell that to all the prospective kings that test themselves against me. 'I know everything they say. There's no more to learn they say.' And I always tell them, that is how I know that they are fools. The more you know, the more you realize that you do not. Is that not so, my good Ser Alder?”

The Butler standing at the door looks to the girl, “Quite so, Miss Victoria.” He shows her a smile as genuine as hers. Seems he likes working for her.

>>46530822

“Young miss,” Biz clears his throat, raising his voice as the bard begs for attention, “It was my understanding that we would be served breakfast?”

Victoria doesn't look back to Biz, “Quiet Bard, I've realized you have nothing of worth to offer, go read a child's rhyming book in the corner or something. Ser Alder, can you help him?”

“Certainly,” The butler grins with amusement as he leaves his post to carry out the request, selecting an assortment of dusty poetry books that were likely only ever read once for the bard's perusal.

>[“I wouldn't be so adverse to breakfast myself, Odette?”]
>[“You had mentioned something about silver eyes, yes?”]
>[“Well, you sure know how to put Biz in his place.”]
>[Take a seat, “So, what did you want of me?”]
>[Write in]

>>46530852
>[“You had mentioned something about silver eyes, yes?”]
>[Take a seat, “So, what did you want of me?”]

>>46530852
>[“You had mentioned something about silver eyes, yes?”]
>[Take a seat, “So, what did you want of me?”]

>>46530852
>[“You had mentioned something about silver eyes, yes?”]

>>46530852
>[“You had mentioned something about silver eyes, yes?”]
I'm slightly worried about her finding out that we're an impostor.
Also I kinda guess she's an Ace of Knowledge

>>46530852
>[Take a seat, “So, what did you want of me?”]

>>46530852
>[“I wouldn't be so adverse to breakfast myself, Odette?”]

>>46530852
>[“You had mentioned something about silver eyes, yes?”]

>>46530852

With the table that Biz had been sitting at liberated, Victoria hurriedly clops over with her shoes clacking against the hardwood floor before they hit the soft carpet. Taking a seat, she gestures for you and Odette to do the same.

As you do, you're charmed to find that this chair may be one of the most comfortable you've sat in for quite a while. “So.” Getting down to business, “You called me here for a reason. Is there anything you'd wanted to speak with me about? Anything regarding silver eyes?”

Victoria verily smiles, her eyes nearly sparkling with her lavender's luster. “Yes. Yes, that is so. At first, I simply wanted to see you, and- ah. I had questions written down here somewhere... The important ones, I could ask you questions for days, yet you must have things you'd like to do...” Victoria starts moving books around on the table, and even opening a few to check for notes until she's frustrated to the point that she starts shaking them upside down until a dainty piece of paper falls out no larger than the size of a playing card.

“Found it!” Victoria reaches out to snatch it from the air, and misses. Again and again she misses until Odette finally reaches out to gently grab it from the air and turn it over. Upon the vellum, you can see strings of handwriting scribbled upon the vellum too small for your eyes to see.

“What is this, penning for ants?” Odette's nose wrinkles at being unable to read it herself as she hands it to Victoria, who's at this point reaching over the table, panting from the physical exertion and her glasses just about tumbling off of her face.

>>46531601

Peace restored with her notes in hand, Victoria resets her glasses with a single digit as the light reflects off of them for a shining moment as she smiles. “Oh? Could it merely be that you cannot read my oh-so refined handwriting, Makoh?”

“Watch the tone missy.” Odette utters with a motherly affluence, and 'The Look.'

Victoria shudders from the scolding, “R-right. Sorry...” She looks down at the vellum and clears her throat.

>>46531618

“To start, I'd like to ask what trait you feel most defines you? As you know from one Thespian to another, we are defined by who we are, what we do, how we feel, and so on. For Silver eyes to manifest, an oddity among arches, then there must be something truly unique about your character worthy of my archives.” Victoria draws a small black pen with golden accents engraved and strip of vellum from her pocket. Why she didn't have her questions in the same place, you can only guess.

>[“Well, I'm Namour you know. Love and Romance are what makes me who I am.” Answer in a deflective manner.]
>[“Understanding prevails over all in my book. As a Namour, am I not to understand the passions of others?”Answer ambiguously with some truth.]
>[“Pass. What? I pass on that question.”]
>[Write in.]

>>46531642
>[“Understanding prevails over all in my book. As a Namour, am I not to understand the passions of others?”Answer ambiguously with some truth.]

>>46531642
>[“Well, I'm Namour you know. Love and Romance are what makes me who I am.” Answer in a deflective manner.]
What's that special thing you had in mind for this thread?

>>46531642
>[“Well, I'm Namour you know. Love and Romance are what makes me who I am.” Answer in a deflective manner.]

>>46531642
>[“Pass. What? I pass on that question.”]

>>46531642
>[“Understanding prevails over all in my book. As a Namour, am I not to understand the passions of others?”Answer ambiguously with some truth.]
I have a feeling that we can get something out of this

>>46531642
>[“Understanding prevails over all in my book. As a Namour, am I not to understand the passions of others?”Answer ambiguously with some truth.]

>>46531642
>[“Well, I'm Namour you know. Love and Romance are what makes me who I am.” Answer in a deflective manner.]
So is she an Ace?

>>46531642
>[“Understanding prevails over all in my book. As a Namour, am I not to understand the passions of others?”Answer ambiguously with some truth.]

>>46531756
>>46531718

Why don't you ask? Could be a fair trade. Question for a question.
Provided she sees an answer as satisfactory.

>>46531796
I support that.

>>46531796
Nice idea but this question doesn't seem equivalent

>>46531840
Any other questions you have? She's obviously knowledgeable.
At least, when it comes to "facts."

>>46531900
Something about the twins or their arche

>>46531900
We need more information on the twins and on the general political landscape

>>46531900
Stories about Impostors though that might be too dangerous

>>46531642

“Well, I am a Namour no? My Arche is passion and romance... Though if I were to speak of another aspect, it would likely be that I've always been rather understanding, not just of subjects, but the passions of others?” You lace the truth with subversion, the girl seems rather content with that, jotting down a few scribbles upon her vellum. Likely shorthand atop her ludicrously small penmanship.

“I see, I see. Though that doesn't quite explain the cause for Silver eyes, it may be getting somewhere... Kindness? No, that's Araflour. Then... Empathy could answer that. Yes! Indeed, if you are truly the eternal dancer, then she- you,” Victoria corrects, “Would have immense understanding of others in your long life... Speaking of which... How old are you?”

You feel a vein of anger pulse in your brow and deep inside at that question. Before you know it, your lips utter, “Pass.”

“Excuse me?” Victoria shifts her glasses to focus upon you, the reflection obscuring her eyes for a moment.

“I pass. I'm not answering that.” You look away for a moment, “How about we turn this into a game of sorts?”

“A game?” Victoria's curiosity seemed piqued, definitely.

Leaning back in your seat, you grin a moment, then look at your fingernails, grimacing at the dirt that's buried itself in your nails and even cuticles. “Yes. A question for a question. An answer for an answer.”

“Is there a win condition?” Victoria immediately begins to take the idea seriously.

“A win condition?”

>>46532795

“Indeed. In the games we Hylon play, there are conditions for victory and conditions for loss. Unless there are set conditions, then we can't call it a game.”

Thinking for a moment as you look upon your nails, you right your posture and cease the occupying yourself with your dirty fingers. “How about we each get three passes. If you can't or refuse to answer a question then you must use one of these passes.”

Victoria smiles wide, her eyes sparkling with intent, “Oh, that does sound like fun! So then the most knowledgeable one will win of course. I'll add that the questions must be of a category relevant to history, sciences, thaumaturgy, or Celestiology, or algebraic equations...”

You sweat at how quick the game would be over if she delved into a queer topic, though you'd at least get three of your own questions in... She's most certainly interested in you. “Recent news will also work, as well as personal questions. Which is why you may also pass if you simply refuse to answer.”

“Agreed. And not knowing or answering falsely also counts against a pass.” Victoria's eyes shine from behind her spectacles like some kind of predator. “One last thing to add. A game outside of the Hylonics must also have reward and penalty. In this case, as I have no interest or need in your life, and hopefully you for mine... I propose that the loser grant the winner a reasonable wish, barring life or death and within the realms of possibility as dictated by fate and logic. Is this also agreed?”

You're not quite sure exactly what she means by fate and logic, but...

>[“The conditions are agreeable... I've already answered a question so you must face one of mine.”]
>[“Maybe we should just have a normal conversation...]
>[“What kind of favor do you intend to ask?”]
>[Write in.]

Honestly... She's extremely sharp, yet simple at the same time.

>>46532815
>[“The conditions are agreeable... I've already answered a question so you must face one of mine.”]
This is going to be fun

>>46532815
>[“The conditions are agreeable... I've already answered a question so you must face one of mine.”]
The loser gets banished to the shadow realm

>>46532815
>[“The conditions are agreeable... I've already answered a question so you must face one of mine.”]
Should be fun.
I hope we don't have to vote on every question though

>>46532884
I was literally thinking that as I was wrapping up that post.

>>46532897
Just the potentially dangerous ones.

>>46532815
>[“The conditions are agreeable... I've already answered a question so you must face one of mine.”]

>>46532815
>[“The conditions are agreeable... I've already answered a question so you must face one of mine.”]

>>46532815

“The Conditions are agreeable.” You say, constraining a sigh and smiling a touch nervously under the Hylon girl's scrutiny.

“Very well, the conditions are agreeable.” She offers a handshake from across the table.

Though you sense a tenuous power from the gesture, you accept her hand not yet knowing what you've gotten yourself into. “Agreed.” With that, you feel a tingle upon your hand and feel... “Bound.”

“Oh? Is this the first time you've experienced a Hylon game?”

Blinking your eyes with a touch of surprise, “Yes, it is. And the second question is now mine.”

Victoria blinks in return, realizing that she just gave you the upperhand. She smiles gleefully, “Ah, that it is. Oh, this will be so much fun! Very well, what do you ask?”

“There's a pair, twins I believe, that are known to me. I'd wanted to ask if you'd heard of anyone at all? Or even any of Arche Dramani?”

Victoria blinks, furrowing her brow. “I.. Well...” Thinking for a moment, she taps her chin, “I see, that's why you included recent events... Shrewd. The game considers it a valid question, however you asked it in two parts. So I'll answer one at least so I need not pass. Dramani is a lesser star of the Scaffos. As the story of her first days goes, Hylios graciously allowed other stars to love with her after him and allow other Arches to form. Dremeni was not among these, however at times lesser stars may bless a thespian. And I suppose they call themselves Dramani. Not very creative if you ask me. So, I've heard of them in a way, yes.”

You feel something in the background pass the turn to her. She answered within the confines of your question. It seems that she doesn't know of Avar or Rava, yet you'll need to word future questions more accurately.

>>46533402

“Now, it is my turn for a question.” Victoria grins, and picks up her vellum list again. “Let's see... You defeated the Dire wolves... yet one is now your Thrall or something. That's quite a feat for one not known as a beastmaster, and you are not pacted with this wolf, yet instead the Eternal flame. Tell me, do you by chance hear the voice of.. No, wait.. I'll word this one better...” She scratches off a small part of her question and writes something else. “What is this table saying?” She taps a finger upon the very cherryhardwood table you're all sitting at...

The table snickers like an mischievous old man, [I want to see up The Worm's skirts.]

>[“Pass.”]
>[“You'd really rather not know.”]
>[“I want to see up... The Worm's skirts.”]
>[Write in.]

>>46533425
>[“I want to see up... The Worm's skirts.”]

>>46533425
>[“I want to see up... The Worm's skirts.”]

>>46533425
>[“I want to see up... The Worm's skirts.”]
She wants to know

>>46533425
>[“I want to see up... The Worm's skirts.”]

>>46533425
>[“I want to see up... The Worm's skirts.”]
The fuck is with that table?

>>46533425

You can't help but to raise your brow as you hear what the table has to say and then slowly look up to Victoria, whom is sitting there waiting obliviously. “You really want to know?”

“That's another question, you need to answer mine first before your next proposal.” Victoria states, at the edge of her seat for the answer.

With a sigh, you look over to Odette. She reads the expression on your face, seeing that you're on the verge of laughing. Breathing in a moment, you turn back to Victoria's and exhale. “The table is saying... I want to see up the worm's skirts.”

“What? That's ridiculous!” Victoria's mouth drops agape in disgust. “Don't you-” The game bound between the two of you suddenly informs her that it's her turn, no pass. Victoria looks down at the table, her eyes wide in all but veiled horror as she inscribes an x on the surface of the table.

The table snickers like a dirty old man, [“Hoo boy, she actually said it!”]

Victoria pushes away from the table along with her chair and stands abruptly. “I'll have my father know that this table is to be burned. We'll have something other than CherryHardwood to replace it. Perhaps Merry Mahogony. Yes, that sounds well. We could change out all of the Cherry Hardwood in this room in fact...”

[“I'll have lived as I died! Hard!”] The table laughs, unrepentant.

You and Odette find yourselves pushing away from the table yourselves and standing. Victoria snatches up her pen and papers as she scribbles something with the help of a small clipboard. “So you can hear the voice of anything I presume... interesting. What's your next question?

>[“Are you an Ace... No, wait. What ranking do you have among Hylon Scholars?”]
>[“Do you know of a Makoh that could not die?”]
>[“What is the political geography for this area?”]
>[“How is Celes Pranse doing?”]
>[“Your questions are oddly probing. What are you looking for?”]
>[Write in.]

>>46533887
>[“Are you an Ace... No, wait. What ranking do you have among Hylon Scholars?”]

>>46533887
>[“Do you know of a Makoh that could not die?”]
That question is bad.
>Tell me about the Makoh that could not die

>>46533887
>[“Your questions are oddly probing. What are you looking for?”]

>>46533887
This >>46533950

>>46533887
>[“Your questions are oddly probing. What are you looking for?”]

>>46533887
>[“Do you know of a Makoh that could not die?”]
Change as the anon proposed

>>46533887
>[“Are you an Ace... No, wait. What ranking do you have among Hylon Scholars?”]

>>46533887
>["What do you know of a Makoh that could not die?"]
not a HUGE fan of wordplay, but I'll put in a bit of effort.

>>46533887

“What do you know of a Makoh that could not die?” You ask, and Victoria seems to have to concentrate deeply to remember this one.

“A Makoh that could not die... I recall reading of a place forbidden by Makoh to tread... And old accounts that tell of a time from when the seas were still Leviathans and before the behemoths became the lands and mountains that we walk upon today... This is considered a myth by Makoh accounts, and it's the tale told as to why they do not eat other Thespians as though what they do already is any less savage.”

“Get on with the details.” Odette demands, not disinterested in hearing her desired arche bashed by the mouse-like girl.

“R-right.” She whispers meekly. “The myth recounts a Makoh that was born of a clan that desired to fight like the Leviathans crashing into and creating the seas. He was born for greatness they say, his father a hero known far and wide that had fists capable of cleaving even a behemoth's bones and racing around the claws of even a white tiger or dancing around the flames of a crimson phoenix...”

[“Heh, as if.”] The eternal flame comments, feeling haughty about something presumably out of context.

“Yet there came a day, where he desired the power to overcome his father and ate his mother, his rival clan, and everyone in his village for unrivaled power. Instead of becoming a monster in form, he became one in spirit and his fists challenged the might of the titanic Proteans.”

“Like the Faeli?” You ask.

>>46534843

“That is another question.” Victoria haughtily interjects with a smile, “However I will answer that one for free. Some Faeli call themselves Proteans as they are born straight from Thespia and the loose threads that tangle with those that live upon her. However true Proteans are the first of all life on Thespia. Leviathans, Thunderbirds, Behemoths, Zephyrs and Sylphs... Yet they could not keep their form as Thespia made them. They and their kind became everything else that we know today. The Faeli are mere imitations of the old ones that we walk upon today. It is said that this is the reason that all things have voices.”

Victoria claps her hands, “I got carried away! About the Makoh! He rampaged about the land as a monster in Thespian form, his teeth rending all asunder. Finally, he was defeated by the first Makoh to form pacts, the first of all to form pacts being the first Hylon after all. Using their pact partners, they sacrificed themselves to seal the monster in Thespian form and stop him from fighting and devouring a Leviathan to complete his savage path.”

“My father told me of that story once... Though it was told differently.” Odette looks to you with a queer expression, a brow raised, “Why ask about that? Why not about what she's looking for, these questions of hers are oddly probing, aren't they?”

“You're not part of the game.” Victoria's expression goes blank, brightening only as she looks to you. “My turn again.”

“Your resident fool told me of something interesting that I have surely never heard of before...” She shudders with excitement, wriggling in place even as she stands, “Is it true that you became a beautiful person with a burning stole and a grace like liquid flame... A person known as Belfors?”

>[“Pass.”]
>[“...Yes.”]
>[Write in.]

>>46534863
>[“Pass.”]

>>46534863
>[“Pass.”]
Now there's a justification for the mental note to kick Biz's ass

>>46534863
>[“Pass.”]

>>46534863
>>[“...Yes.”]
what would passing accomplish? If we can't say no, then the fact is confirmed. At best, we can deflect by complaining about the name.

>>46534863
>[“...Yes.”]
>>46534978
Passing could also be understood as wanting to hide that we didn't become Belfors.

>>46534978
If we pass it could mean both depending on what she guesses our intention is.

>>46534863
>[“...Yes.”]
Biz was a mistake

>>46534863

“Pass.” You say, and Victoria stares at you intently, adjusting her glasses as she considers something.

There's a silence between the two of you as you feel the first mark against you in this little contest of yours take effect, signaling that it's your turn now. Victoria marks down something in her notes and smiles.

“...” You want to ask you what she just put down, yet you look at Odette instead as though to convey meaning.

Speaking up Odette interjects, “You quieted down rather suddenly. What's with the change?”

“...ors...is...al” She murmurs, her expression breaking into a smile.

“I'm sorry?” Odette follows up.

“...fors is...eal.” Victoria says again, her smile widening to show her pristine teeth.

“Once more dear. Stop mumbling.”

“Belfors is real.” Victoria smiles fully, beaming, as she's clutching her skirts tightly to hold back her glee. “I've never known that such a thing was possible. A thespian transforming into another. That's incredible, that's historic, and that's definitely worth archiving for future generations.” Victoria, with tears at the corners of her eyes, wipes away the wetness with a sleep. “I'm sorry, this is unbecoming of a lady. If you'd like, I can have the food brought in.”

You blink, confused exactly as to what just happened. Likely, he took your refusal to answer as confirmation for what she'd already heard. This girl... She's probing very deeply.

The three of you take a break for breakfast to be brought in. Though delivered in fancy trays, the actual breakfast turns out to be small and of controlled portioning. With exactly no more to be left with all the servings doled out.

>>46535722

As you cut a sweetberry-stuffed crepe with a fork and pop the fluffy goodness in your mouth, the rich crème and tart berry explodes in your mouth in a swirl of sweetness and fluffy delight. You feel your cheeks flush with how good real food is. Odette seems mesmerized herself with something other than the savory meat of hunted beasts on her plate. Though you do notice that the entire breakfast serving is nothing but confectionery and baked goods...

“My turn for a question.” You say upon swallowing a bit of the crepe. “What ranking do you have among Hylon scholars? I assume it must be fairly high?”

Victoria however, talks with her mouth full of that very same portion of crepe, and a little upon her cheek at that as her butler dabs it away, “Perceptive, Lady Belinda. I do not have an official rank among the pacted, though I am known by the courts as an Ace. A position that's come to be known since the great Acer of Gracia slew three generations of swordsmen with his peerless blade. The term was coined for those that reigned above kings in term of pactless ability yet choose not to take the pact for themselves. No one knew of Acer's reasons besides some bully fact about how he'd claimed to be beaten by some fictitious Makoh and could not claim the title himself. As for me, I simply do not hold pride in my intellect as I am always learning, such as now. My pride is in my books, and libraries spread across my father's county. I have no interest in claiming the title of King and holding myself as some queer pinnacle over others. Isn't that right Ser Alder?”

“Verily so, milady.” The Butler agrees, “Though your father would beg to differ, he appreciates you here versus the High Court with the Emperor. Perhaps after his passing you will reconsider?”

>>46535743

Victoria breathes in deeply, her eyes going wide a moment, “F-father, Father will never die. He can't die, even if a man were to kill him. Father can't die...”

“You've read many a book of death m'lady. You know it must come to pass eventually...”

Victoria takes another deep breath. “I'd just... rather not think of it. Please?” Victoria's jaw clenches hard around the words as her lips quiver. Her Butler holds his silence after that.

“Certainly.” You say to her “please” and instantly feel the tick that signals that it's your turn again.

“Oh! That wasn't fair!” Victoria pouts. “That was-”

“- Personal. Anyway, think about it, answer a question. It'll take your mind off of less pleasant things.”

Victoria's pout persists and her eyes look away, yet she doesn't object any further.

“Your questions... Are oddly probing. What is it that you are intend- No. What are you looking for with our meeting?”

Victoria is silent for a still moment longer, silence seeming to fall over the room even as the sollight filters in more closely to noon as you all sit as a less perverse table.
“I want to know things that others do not. For the sake of knowledge and archiving for the future generations.” She straightens her back, appearing more like a proper lady now as she elegantly pursues this response. “There are still many things happening in Thespia and many things we do not know concerning the workings of fate and the consequences it has upon us thespians, we children of the stars.”

Victoria touches her fingers together nervously like a child as she gazes off and away into some unforeseeable distance, “I'd never met someone with Silver eyes or heard a story of a Thespian transforming into another. For the sake of knowledge, I need to know everything about it. Nothing more, nothing less. I am simply driven to know.”

>>46535743
Wait I'm rather sure that the Hylon was known as King of Blades

>>46535766

You consider her answer, she seems rather earnest about the whole thing. Though she may be young, she's definitely willing to shoulder a great deal of responsibility.

“The young miss has been studying all subjects this world has to offer since the ripe age of one. Books have always been her forte, as the blade was the prodigious Acer from his young age. She is quite passionate about knowledge and has been groomed finely to assist her father's rise to count from local lord by his power over the economy with his daughter's advice. “ Alder interjects as an aside, explaining his little miss's background.


“Alder, she could've just asked me that! You're not playing the game!” Victoria pouts again and furiously eats another two bites of her crepe.

“Apologies Lady Victoria.” Alder says with a smile as he bows slightly to wipe some cream off of her nose.

“Will you show me Belfors now?” Victoria says and then swallows, a smile beaming wide and bright.

The question makes you snap out of your daze and you stare on at Victoria. She's gone meek again, he eyes pleading through the tops of her spectacles as she squirms in her seat, hoping for a favorable response.

>[“... Belfors is not something I use for demonstration.”]
>[“I warn you, she may be adverse to this. Are you sure?”]
>[“... Very well. Is there a room a touch more... fireproof? Also, would you like that table destroyed?”]
>[“No, Pass.”]
>[Write in.]

>>46535831
>[“... Belfors is not something I use for demonstration.”]
There is no way involving Dramir here would be anything but a disaster

>>46535774
She said, "Since his time." So an Ace is an unofficial title that became known later on. Officially he would've been known as an upstart or the "Pactless King of Blades." In full.

Even without taking the pact that only "Kings" are entitled, he still had the priviledge of having title of King.

>>46535831
>[“... Belfors is not something I use for demonstration.”]

>>46535831
>[“I warn you, she may be adverse to this. Are you sure?”]

>>46535831
>[“... Belfors is not something I use for demonstration.”]
I doubt it would work well anyway

>>46535831
>[“... Belfors is not something I use for demonstration.”]
And as our next question use
>Who slew the Lord of Bikel Manor?

>>46535831
>>[“... Belfors is not something I use for demonstration.”]
It would probably end very badly. If you want to ask HOW badly, I am concerned for this mansion, let alone the inhabitants.

>>46535869
I'm really interested in what she know about the Guisi.
Or rather how good their lies are

>>46535998
>>46535953
These questions are in the same line, though explicitly different. Would you guys like to move forward with these? Likely, they'll be the last two questions you ask her.

>>46536037
Only ask >>46535998 in a way that doesn't compromise secret in itself.
But yeah those sound good.

>>46536037
I thought of the first question as a certain "win" for us.
Because the correct answer could be either "You" or "The Reaper of Aurel"

>>46535861

“Belfors is not something that I use for demonstration...” You avert your gaze, looking on at the vast collection of books in this library alone. “ In fact, it could lead to casualties if I brought her out here. Let's just say that she's got a nasty temper, but I'll have to pass.”

Victoria pouts, seeming to already be considering her next question, especially as you feel your secod strike mentally tick in you.

You know yours, “I'd like to ask about a recent event.” You start, keeping your expression steady, “Do you know who killed the Lord Of Bikel Manor?”

Victoria smiles, “Well, that depends on which Lord, the father or the son. The father was poisoned by Guisi and word has it that the son was killed by the legendary Reaper of Aurel. Why do you ask?”

“I'd passed through that way, a lot was going on and I was eager to pass through with my guild tasks to do.”

Victoria blinks, yet lets the question go as she taps her pen to her lip with one hand before putting the last of her crepe in her mouth. “Mmm... Breakfast is almost over, and I need to figure this out as quickly as possible... I'll allow you one more question before I end our contest, so I'll ask something simple this time. How do you change into Belfors?”

“I don't entirely know.” You answer, actually rather honestly at that. You don't feel the strike against you despite the vague answer. Victoria seems somewhere between intrigued and upset by that.
In response to that question, “I've met Guisi before and they've seemed... alright. I couldn't imagine them poisoning someone-” You definitely could, “What do you know about the Guisi?”

>>46536675

Victoria frowns and looks away, her lip clearly upturned and her lavender eyes more than a bit irritated at that question. “I've honestly not dealt with them all that much personally, and most of the text describing them is highly biased and opinionated so it's hard to claim any facts from books concerning them. Overall they live in peace, seek to like in offshoots of towns and cities like Bikel and Pruden /they tend to keep to themselves and scarcely stand up for themselves...”

“However,” Victoria continues, “There is legend saying that the Reaper of Aurel was originally a Guisi some years back. It could've become a monster after the slaughter of all those Guisi that empowered one, yet that kind of story makes more sense for a Makoh or a Faeli... One of the things we may never know...” The tick confirms her answer satisfactory

“Last question then,” Victoria smiles, knowing her victory is certain. “What is the principle of a thespian's mask and the quirk of fate that allows others to remove and wear the faces of others called?”

“I... Don't know.” You suddenly feel very anxious about the disturbingly close to home topic.

“It's called the Odyssian principle where fate is not a destination but the journey to the destiny of death. By that principle, one can relinquish the pull fate has upon them. They say that some Faceless hunt for the faces of children in the woods, and others eventually become faeli when they wander for long enough. Even so, the faces' fate continues and fate pulls them forward with the mortal until he lives a hero or dies a nobody to fade into obscurity...”

“That said.” Victoria sips upon some tea, inhaling deeply of the fragrance, “I'd like to propose my reasonable request right now.”

Inclining your head, you let the Namour know that you are listening well.


Setting her tea down, Victoria interlaces her fingers together, “I... Want to come with you, to see what you do with my own eyes.

>[End Scene! Stay tuned for an interlude!]

>>46536687
>acquired loli companion
>party size has increased
I like this development

>>46536687
Huh I wonder how she'll react to our true nature.
Also I really like this
>I couldn't imagine them poisoning someone-”
> You definitely could

>>46536687

[Interlude]

Sol's warm noon light gleams through the Solar stained glasses of rich amber and crystalwood to paint a wonderfully rich dining hall with a medley of strong, warm colors fitting of only the most regal of Hylon. Within this hall, there sat ten Hylon at a table rid of anything even remotely concerning food. A thirteenth chair rested at the head of the table, looking on down the long rectangular craftsmanship of this kingly table.

Soon, entering with royal discretion, a large Hylon man with a beard like threaded white gold walk into the room with a crown befitting only one of his status. The crown, running from his temples and threading through his long mane-like hair as an accentuated clip wrought of royale gilden and beset with only the most worthy of diamonds presented his status as such:
The King of Kings.

Seating himself up on high at the head of the table, his gathered court all regard him intently and with absolute respect. With a booming thunderous voice that could be heard throughout the room in equal measure. “Welcome, my High Court. I have called you hear to discuss the nature of a peculiar threat to our kingdom. Not from the Makoh savages or the Tragedy the the great Namour cities have become, yet one that threatens us from within.”

Why do I have the feeling that the twins are somehow involved here.
Good night anyway and thanks for the thread

>>46537001

“The Gipparoh jumpers of our employ of relayed to us that the town of Bikel, once held by esteemed Lord Grant's fry has fallen to rebels as they spread a message of peace and equality that we have fought hard against in the past so as to maintain the natural order of these lands under our majestic rule. To intervene as the King of Kings would be an insult to our entire Arche. Nay, we must ensure that the local regents deal with this threat immediately and I would ask for a volunteer to this court act as representative and ensure that the job gets done, that this eyesore is erased from the land at once!” The King of Kings slams his fist down, the table roaring and shuddering from the strike as his voice dies out and all goes quiet.

One member of the court rises before the others, a sly man that while Hylon, carries the tell-tale scaling of Drezhar, only now burnished gold by his status not only as a Hylon, but as a king. “My good King of Kings. I, Rodin of The Wood shall see to it that this insurrection is quelled with tact and the local economy far from broken.”

The King of Kings eyes leer upon the first volunteer, his nostrils flaring with anger as he stares upon the others, sending invisible goosebumps slithering down their spines. “Is this honored task above the rest of you? That the least of you would offer themselves up? Hear this: Next time, it will not be based upon a volunteer. Robin, go forth and do the bidding of our Arche. Ensure that the reign of Hylon endures till the end of time.”

Rodin smiles with something that can only be called a snakes cunning, “Indeed. May the throne of Hylon endure as long as the light of Sol. The Hylon turns to a Gipparoh servant a lready lying in wait.
With a bow, the servant offers a hand and waves a portal open, connected to the ruined audience hall of Bikel...

>[Interlude End]

>>46537013
Oh boy Mira will love this

>>46537013
Thanks for the thread .
And till next week

As always, any comments, questions, or concerns?

>Good?
>Bad?
>Weird?

Oh, also for reference. Victoria looks to be around 14 years old.

>>46537096
I really liked the insight the game gave us though I wonder how the twins managed to get the Makoh face after that story.
Also I'm worried what'll happen to our glorious republic

>>46537096
How does reaper feel abou this? She hasnt dismissed the guisi by any means, yet she is Hylon still.

>>46537096
Were there actually any questions she would have passed on?

>>46537143
You'll have to check in with him on that. Aside, she doesn't really look all that Hylon save for her diamond-shaped pupils. Dark, feathery hair and antennaes are telling of a rather different Arche.

>>46537152
Likely something more personal, or relevant to exceptionally recent love affairs that she knows nothing of.

I'm surprised you guys didn't ask her about her "Title, The Worm."

She's rather competetive though when it comes to games that she perceives to be about knowledge.

Oh, and asking about "Who was at the bottom of the well in the westwood wilds?" Would have put her at a loss. Or "Who unsealed that well?"

It would've given her insight into things that she didn't know about and ran the risk of counterquestions that you'd have been better off passing on... However without a possible yes/no to either of those questions, she'd be reaching pretty hard to get an answer that satisfies her curiousity.

>>46537205
But our goal wasnt to win.

>>46537135

She did say that it was story after all. The actual events may be a touch different...

Aside, I also hope you guys felt just how much she loves teaching others about the things that she's learned and talking about them.

Aside from that, how did she "feel" to you guys? Think you'll like her company?

>>46537237
Very true. You guys did find out some useful information for the future.
The Makoh face, how the Hylon view the creation story, What an "Ace" is and how it came to be... And even the very possible origin of the twin's strange Arche.