>>46540751

Forget the issue of whether he is willing to act, you tell the Mentor coldly, forget about issues of will and intention. You've got one simple question for him – could he make the soldiers outside leave? Does he have any power at all that might banish them from this place?

“I could do it, without question,” a hint of stubborn pride dances around the edges of the Mentor's voice, as if your implications have wounded the shreds of his dignity, “Mere words would be enough to see them away, and to ensure that they never return.”

Then why, you ask, hasn't he done a damn thing about it?

“Take a man, Ira, a man who has sworn off all worldly desires and indulgences. Take this man, and place him in a room with as much wine and food as he can stomach,” the old man slips easily back into his role as teacher, even if you're not in the mood for a lecture, “Do you think this man will drink in moderation? Or would he glut himself on the rich pleasures available to him? I could unleash the power that I have spent so many generations denying... but I fear what would happen next. Men are weak, Ira, and that is one frailty that I retain.”

So that's it, is it? It all comes down to a simple lack of self-control on his part – or even just the fear of that lack?

“There are other factors to consider,” he insists, “Say I used sorcery to defeat our enemies. It would just make enemies of all the gods, and any men who recognise what they have witnessed. Perhaps we would be safe for today, but we would destroy our place in society. Would you turn to the greatest of sins in order to turn away a few armed men?”

And if what Selene told you is true, acts of sorcery led to Makai's destruction. Can you really risk unleashing that power again, in your home of all places?

>I see no other choice. We must use sorcery
>I'll speak with the soldiers outside. I can make them see reason
>For now, we should wait and see what happens
>Other

>>46540759
>>I'll speak with the soldiers outside. I can make them see reason
I won't rule out using sorcery but I think it should be a last resort.

>>46540759
>I'll speak with the soldiers outside. I can make them see reason

>>46540759
>I'll speak with the soldiers outside. I can make them see reason

Sorcery is a truly grave sin to commit, you ask sombrely, isn't it?

“Sorcerers were exterminated, wiped from the land at the behest of the gods,” the Mentor replies with an equal weight in his voice, “And it was the right choice. Now, with the art a failing memory, the world is safer than it has ever been – even with the looming shadow of war. Were I to return this damnable power to the land, nothing would ever be the same. You, who has seen Makai, should realise that.”

As much as you long for an easy solution to this, you know that the Mentor has a point. This is not power that should be used, when words might work just as well. You'll speak with the soldiers outside, you offer, and make them see reason. But if that doesn't work, sorcery might be the last resort – is he prepared for that?

“If there was no other choice...” the Mentor pauses, shaking his weary head, “No, I cannot say for certain. Pray to all the gods in the land that we are not forced into that situation. If those men can be made to see sense, we must pursue that option with all our strength.”

All your strength, you think bitterly, since you're going to be the one doing it. You'll be the one ordering a mob of armed men to leave without even the slightest authority to do so. If there is one among them that the others looks up to, and that unofficial leader is willing to listen to reason... it might be possible. If not, you're going to have a hard job ahead of you.

“I believe you can do this,” the Mentor assures you, “Even though those men bear the Emperor's banner, they do not wish to die here. It is rare for the common man to wish for war – exploit that, if you have to.”

>Then I'd better get to work
>I need to ask something of you... (Write in)
>Other

>>46541119
>I need to ask something of you... (Write in)
How did you travel to Makai in the days of yore?
Is it the same path Seer is camping on, or there's another one?

>>46541119
>>Then I'd better get to work
Plus >>46541153 Another path might be useful if we make the seer an enemy.

The Seer and the Mentor have both seen Makai, you figure, so they must have found some way to pass from Tenngaru to that blasted wasteland. Was it the same route that the Seer now controls, you ask, or was there some other path?

“We followed a path over the mountains,” the Mentor says slowly, as if he was searching his memory for the details. It's an act, you know that immediately – his mind is perfectly sharp, and the delay is nothing more than buying a few more minutes to consider his words. “I doubt there are many people alive today that know the route we took. It was in the west, across terrain both harsh and dangerous. Of course, when you had the powers we enjoyed in those ancient days...”

Could others take that path then, you press, could it be used again in modern days?

“Could it be used? Certainly,” the Mentor pauses for a moment, “But it would be difficult, and not suitable for a large number of people to move through. An army could not take that path, not without leaving themselves terribly exposed. I fear the Seer knows the terrain far better than I, and his forces would possess a fearsome advantage in the mountains.”

He picked his lair well. No matter how strong the Emperor's armies might be, there is little chance of bringing that strength to bear against the Seer's cultist troops. On the contrary, the Imperial soldiers would be picked apart by quick attacks and ambushes, no matter which way they tried to attack.

Very well then, you decide with a slight sigh as you stand and bow, you'd better get to work. Those soldiers aren't going to shift themselves.

Unfortunately.

[1/2]

>>46541119
>>Then I'd better get to work

>>46541354

The sun is rising as you're leaving the Nameless Temple, and the undisciplined mob of soldiers – some holding weary position around the temple as guards, others stumbling out of their makeshift tents to prepare for the day – rise with it. Clutching weapons, and carrying them with a distinct uncertainty, they watch you as you enter their encampment. You meet a few gazes as you passes, assessing them with a cold neutrality. Your pistol and sword are sheathed, but your hands never stray far from them.

When you've reached what might be the centre of the camp, built around a particularly large cooking fire, you raise your voice to address the gathering of soldiers. Who among them, you call out, is willing to speak for them? Just who is in charge of this mess?

No answer comes for a long time. It's not surprising really, not with this kind of lax discipline. If there was an officer about, things would be different. Eventually, a single man – a little older than the average, if you're any judge – steps forwards. A low officer, if his rank pins are any indication. Important enough to enforce orders, but too low to change the ones they've already been given. A scapegoat, you realise, if the situation should turn into a calamity.

From the bleak cast of his features, the low officer knows the exact same thing.

“I know what you're going to say, Wanderer,” he grunts, “And I can't do it. My orders are to keep watch here, and those haven't changed. When your old man banished us from the temple, I sent a rider for fresh orders. Until he returns...” Shaking his head, the officer grudgingly offers you his hand, “I'm Grahn,” he says, “Closest thing these boys have to a leader right about now.”

>When do you expect fresh orders to arrive?
>You've been hung out to dry, Grahn. Are you really going to accept that?
>I don't care about your orders. You need to leave, now
>Tell me something... (Write in)
>Other

>>46541472
>When do you expect fresh orders to arrive?
>You've been hung out to dry, Grahn. Are you really going to accept that?

>>46541472
>You've been hung out to dry, Grahn. Are you really going to accept that?
>Tell me something... (Write in)
Do you really think you guys should be here, guarding kids and old men? Seems like a complete waste.

>>46541472
>Tell me something... (Write in)
Why'd you join the military? Why did everyone else in your unit?

>>46541472
>>Tell me something... (Write in)
We should probably ask him about the soldier that killed that apprentice. Is he being punished?

>>46541673
Maybe hold off on that for now. We are trying to get them to leave and trying to punish that dude might be counter productive.

>>46541707
Yes, let's belay that.

>>46541472
>Tell me Grahn, how do you feel about the Nameless Temple? About Wanderers, and what you've now seen of their apprentices?

These fresh orders, you start, when does he expect them to arrive?

“If my rider gets a good run and they're waiting for him, it could be later today,” Grahn shrugs, “On the other hand, if the higher ups need to argue about what we're supposed to do next... longer. Tomorrow would be generous. As you might have guessed by now, things are a little disorganised here. If anyone in this damn camp had a single idea of what to do, we'd have done it by now.” His voice is bitter, frustrated by the simple helplessness of his situation. You can't help but sympathise with him.

You've got a question, though. Does he really think he should be out here, with this many soldiers devoted to guarding a temple full of children and old men? Now more than ever, that seems incredibly wasteful.

“And we all know it,” Grahn nods, “Like it or not, though, someone in the capital seems to think that this place is a threat. A breeding ground for revolutionaries and dissident thought, I was told. Frankly, you're damn lucky our orders were just to stand guard – the way I see it, somebody wanted this place purged. I wish we weren't here, this shit isn't why I joined up.”

You surprise him, then, by sitting down by the fire and making yourself comfortable. After an awkward moment, he sits close to you, his formality slipping away somewhat. He said that this wasn't what he joined the army for, you point out, why did he join up? What about the rest of the men here?

“I'll not make excuses,” Grahn allows a cynical smile to cross his face, “It was the coin that got me. Even so, I've got my standards – I know when I'm being used to do someone else's dirty work. The others though... I reckon a fair few of them would call themselves patriots. Fighting for their land and their way of life – even if that means fighting against their own. Twisted, I know, but the army isn't what it used to be.”

[1/2]

>>46541862

So he knows that he's been hung out to dry, you begin, but is he really going to accept that?

“Orders are orders, Wanderer, and they don't leave me with much choice,” Grahn's voice darkens, “You know what happens when a man defects? They hang him, of course, or shoot him if they don't have a noose at hand. If the whole unit disobeyed our orders, we'd be looking at decimation. Every tenth man dead – and the higher ups would call that merciful. Like I said, it's a twisted mess, but I'm not in a position to change a damn thing. All I do, right now, is look after the boys here.”

And you're trying to look after your own, you agree with him, so that puts you both on the same page. How does he feel about the Nameless Temple, you ask suddenly, and the people he's seen here? Speak plainly, you add a moment later, you want an honest opinion.

“Speaking plainly?” Grahn stares into the fire, his eyes creased against the heat, “I've got no quarrel with you or your ways, but I reckon the higher ups might be right about one thing – you've got dissenters amongst you, and they're going unpunished. Way I hear it, some of your own have been arrested or killed recently, all for working against the Emperor. Now, I don't believe in collective punishment, but you lot have been too damn complacent. Weeds like these, you've got to dig them out before they spread. Otherwise, someone might think the whole damn garden is as good as lost.”

Well, you did want an honest opinion...

“Listen, Wanderer,” Grahn says suddenly, “When these orders arrive, I can't say what they might be. Could be that we'll be shooting at each other by this time tomorrow. On the other hand, we might be on the road back by nightfall. Could be either – I hope you've got friends in the capital fighting your corner.”

>Is that all you can do to help resolve this?
>Then we wait. I hope we don't have to fight
>This is unacceptable. Leave now, or there will be consequences
>Other

>>46541979
>Is that all you can do to help resolve this?

>>46541979
>>Is that all you can do to help resolve this?
>Other
"You seem like a smart man Grahn. You do know that the apprentices that were going to join the cult already did it before you came. The only ones left here are the ones who decided to stay and you are punishing THEM. The only thing you and your soldier's presence is doing is angering the ones that wanted to stay on the good side into dissent and the one who gave you your order's is too stupid to see that."

"If your orders are to purge us, would you really go through with that? Kids and Old men, part of society dedicated to helping people? If you don't want to then you SHOULDN'T. Soldier or no, you always have a choice."

"I am Lord of Dumas. That might not mean much to the grand scheme but, it might be something. We both know you presence here will only make matter's worse. I can 'order' you leave, go back to your families, and if you are asked about it you can blame it on me and your lack of orders."

>>46542093
>>46541979
"I already lost one younger sister to this stupidity. I don't want lose anymore."

>>46541979
>So Grahn, what do the rules say about a noble...."reassigning" military personnel? As if there was some urgent business needed elsewhere, courtesy of a concerned and upstanding servant of the empire? Danger to civilians, a possible lead to dissidents....could be anything.

He speaks of being unwilling to fight and hoping to find a solution, but is that all he can do to help resolve this peacefully? Grahn starts to speak, but you hold up a hand to still his protests. Orders are orders – you realise that – but he seems smart enough to see the reality of this situation. Anyone within the Nameless Temple who was going to fight against the Emperor has already left to join the resistance. The only ones left are those who have chosen not to fight – but he would take the fight to them. All that this occupation has achieved is to raise the tension even further, and to push more apprentices towards dissent.

“I don't know your people like you do, so I've only got your word for that,” Grahn frowns, “But I believe you. We can here expecting a fight, that's what we were warned about. That's why we're all on edge – all the time we were walking the corridors, we were expecting knives in the back. When that didn't happen, that's when I realised how pointless these orders were. Pointless... or actively malicious.”

So if these pointless orders were to purge the temple, you ask, would he really follow through with them? Children and old men, all devoted to helping society – hardly a danger to the land. If he doesn't want to follow those orders, he simply shouldn't. It's his choice.

“Yeah, that's right. It's my choice,” even with the glare of the fire reflecting on his skin, Grahn's face is terribly grey, “And whatever choice I make, the rest of the boys here have to live with it – or die because of it. At the end of the day, I'm responsible for making the call.”

What if he wasn't, you ask quietly, what if someone else took responsibility?

“Then I'd turn this whole mess over to them in an instant,” Grahn's answer comes immediately, “But I don't see a convenient officer about, do you?”

Perhaps not, you admit, but you ARE a nobleman. That's a good start, isn't it?

[1/2]

>>46542311

“No fooling?” Grahn turns to scrutinise you, as if he's expecting you to look different now that he knows your real status, “You're some kind of big deal in the capital or what?”

Lord of Dumas, you tell him – a title that is completely plucked out of the air. It's a little island in the north, but it's land like any other. With the power your noble status grants you, you might be able to give him new orders – ones that would take him far away from here, sending his men to where they are really needed. As a nobleman, you've got Tenngaru's best interests at heart after all.

“You're not fooling,” Grahn shakes his head, “I don't know about the proper protocol, but... if I'm being given a direct order, I can't just up and refuse it, can I? Especially not if I can just tell them that it was you giving me the new orders. That might land you in trouble though, Wanderer. I'm talking serious trouble – they could drag you to the capital and put you on trial, I reckon. You're really willing to take that risk?”

The temple has already lost one little sister because of this mess, you tell him solemnly, and you don't want to see any more losses. If that means putting yourself in harm's way...

“You're a damn good man, Wanderer,” Grahn smiles, some of the bitterness dropping away to reveal genuine gratitude, “Listen, how about a compromise? We wait here until our new orders arrive. If we get ordered back to the capital, we leave immediately and that's the end of it. If we get ordered to move in, you'll have the chance to give us a different mission.” A pause, and he lowers his voice slightly, “Orders can be “lost”, after all. If I didn't receive the order to attack, I might not have a choice but to listen to you. How about it, are you willing to put up with us a while longer?”

>We'll wait and see what your orders are, then
>You need to leave now, unfortunately. I'll deal with the consequences
>Other

>>46542484
>We'll wait and see what your orders are, then
"As long as you let me see those orders before you 'lose' them."

>>46542484
>We'll wait and see what your orders are, then
I have the pessimistic suspicion that it's not just a messenger who's coming back, but a full supply loaded with a flamethrower or two.

Wouldn't do for accidental casualties to occur trying to pull this trick.

>>46542484
>>We'll wait and see what your orders are, then
No point risking ourselves until we know the orders are bad.

You can wait a while longer, you decide, and see what these orders are. You have one condition, however – you want to see these orders with your own eyes, before Grahn decides whether or not they were “lost”. Is that an acceptable condition?

“More than acceptable,” Grahn nods, “Frankly, anything that shifts more of the responsibility onto you is fine with me. No offence, I mean.”

None taken. So, you confirm, when his man arrives with word from the capital...

“I'll take it to you, and we can decide our next move from there,” Grahn offers you his hand again, and you shake it firmly. The gentleman's agreement is signed. “I just hope I can set foot in your temple without being thrown out again,” the low officer adds, in the tone of someone struggling to make a joke, “When we left, it wasn't exactly on good terms. I suppose if I go in alone, it won't look like an invasion. Deal with that problem when it happens, right?”

Right. Standing, you notice that the gathered soldiers had been watching the entire exchange with careful eyes, lingering a respectful distance away. Far enough away that your exchange would have gone unheard, but not so far that they couldn't intervene. A good thing, then, that you never came to blows. Grahn stands as well, brushing dirt off the back of his coat, and walks to the edge of the encampment with you. When you reach the informal border – the dividing line between your territory and his – he gives you a clumsy bow.

“Glad we were able to speak, Wanderer,” he begins

Ira, you tell him, your name is Ira.

“Ira, then,” the low officer nods, “Glad to have met you. Might be that you've saved a lot of lives today.”

Might be, you agree, but it's about time you got back to those lives. You've got people to see.

>Visit Howa. It's been too long
>Visit Koa. He has a duel soon
>Other

>>46542747
>Visit Howa

Time to get our shit slapped.

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>>46542747
>Visit Howa. It's been too long

After we get our earful, we should go give Koa his extra practice.

>>46542747
>>Visit Howa. It's been too long
Should be able to do both since we are going to be staying at the Temple for awhile until those orders arrive. But I fear for our life if we keep doing other tasks, important as they are, without at least seeing Howa.

>>46542747
>Visit Howa. It's been too long

Now that you've dealt with a mob of armed and nervous soldiers, it's time to face the real danger. This will be the first time you've seen Howa since you slipped out in the early hours of the morning, leaving nothing but a note to explain yourself.

Not your proudest moment, you will admit, but you've never been one for long goodbyes.

It's early, but Howa should probably be at the archives by now, working away as normal. That's probably for the best, meeting her in a public place. It's certainly safer, in either case. As you make your way over to the grand library, you wonder what she was doing while you were away. Now you think about it, you're not even sure what she does when you're still here. What do they do, down in the archives? Sanae and Milo often put books back where they're supposed to be, but is organising the place the extent of their duties?

Something to talk about, when better times roll around. Assuming that they ever do. When you arrive at the archives, however, Howa is nowhere to be seen. The front desk is occupied by her assistant, Sanae, the girl's nose buried in a thick book. Clearing your throat to get her attention, she jolts up and gasps.

“Ah!” she yelps, “Oh, hello. Um... Howa isn't here at the moment I'm afraid. Wait, I've got orders from her about this...” You wait patiently as Sanae takes out a folded scrap of paper and skims the words written on it. “If anyone except Ira shows up, tell them I'm busy and send them away. If Ira does show up, tell him I'm in my quarters,” Sanae reads aloud, “Oh wait, there's a little more: “And do some damn work for once”. Huh, that's mean...”

You're about to leave, heading to Howa's quarters, when you pause. Sanae is an apprentice, so maybe she can tell you a little about Koa's nemesis. Jain, his name was...

>I'll leave you to your hard work, Sanae
>Can you tell me anything about Jain, one of the apprentices?
>Other

>>46543011
>>Can you tell me anything about Jain, one of the apprentices?

>>46543011
>Can you tell me anything about Jain, one of the apprentices?

>>46543011
>>Can you tell me anything about Jain, one of the apprentices?
Then leave her to read.

>>46543011
>Can you tell me anything about Jain, one of the apprentices?

Say, you ask, can she tell you anything about one of the other apprentices? Jain, his name was – anything at all she can tell you might be useful.

“Oh, this is about that... duel thing, right?” Sanae carefully slides her written orders into the book, marking her place, and closes it carefully, “I heard about that. Well, everyone heard about that. It's not often we get something quite so, you know, violent. There's going to be a big crowd when the fight happens, and no mistake. Uh, and if I'm honest... I don't think Koa is going to have a lot of people shouting for him.”

So Jain is popular, then?

“I wouldn't say that,” Sanae shakes her head, “But he's riding the moment. Oh, but I know one thing. He liked Shiki a lot.”

Shiki, that was the girl that died. Koa had mentioned liking her as well.

“No, I mean he liked her,” Sanae stresses the word, “The same way that you and... uh...”

Go on, you sigh, you've been waiting for this. Word, no doubt, has spread.

“The way you and Howa like each other,” Sanae finishes, colour rising in her cheeks as her lips form a nervous smile, “You know, LIKE like. That's what I heard, at least, and I keep my ear out for these things. I guess that might explain why Jain is so angry about it all... Anyway, that's all I know, really. I hope it helped.”

It's hard to say how useful that information might be, but you've never been one to turn down a lead. Even the most innocent of details can be significant in its own way, so it's best to pay attention to them. Thanking Sanae for her time, you retreat from the archives. Before you've left the room, she's already delving into her book once more. Shaking your head in weary amusement, you make your way over to Howa's room. So much for meeting in a public place...

[1/2]

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>>46543311

As soon as you've knocked once, Howa calls for you to enter. Her voice is bleary with tiredness – or possibly wine – and has little anger in it. No more than normal, at least. Not quite what you were expecting, but you won't argue.

“Oh Ira,” she sighs as you enter, “I'm so tired!” She sits, half slumped at a table, and gestures vaguely to the seat opposite her. Scanning the room for any trace of what might have left her so tired – late night reading, perhaps, or drinking – you sit and give her a careful look.

So, you begin, does she have anything to say to you? It's been a while since you last spoke, after all.

“Ah, but I had your charming letter,” Howa's voice grows light and girlish, with just enough sarcasm lurking beneath to make her real moon known, “I read it every day, and it was like you were never away!”

Okay, you admit patiently, you probably deserved that.

“...I missed you,” the woman sitting across from you adds a moment later, all sarcasm and scorn dropping from her voice. Reaching across, she takes one of your hands in hers and gives it a gentle squeeze. “I always did, I mean, but... I got worried, so worried that I was of no use to anyone. I couldn't even pace around!” She forces a smile at that last part, one that you can't quite match. “In the end, the Mentor gave me a job to do, something so simple that anyone could do it. Copying books, if you can believe it.”

Copying them, you repeat, word for word?

“Transcribing them for the next generation,” Howa shrugs lightly, “It's a worthy cause, I suppose. He said something about having spares, as well, but he didn't explain. Tiring work though.” Giving your hand another squeeze, Howa looks you straight in the eye. “Was it bad?” she asks.

>It's complicated. The cult might have a point
>It was bad, but I know for sure now. The cult must be stopped
>I'd rather not talk about it
>Other

>>46543464
>>It was bad, but I know for sure now. The cult must be stopped
Evil gods is a very bad deal.

>>46543464
>Spill it all after making her promise nothing leaves this room and making sure no eavesdropping people are present. The cult And the Emperor need to get thier head out of thier ass.

>>46543464
>It was bad, but I know for sure now. The cult must be stopped
It's just trying to find a way where all those misguided people don't get killed in the process. Cutting the head off the snake won't do it, it'll just cause more chaos. We have to disillusion them with Seer.

>>46543464
It's immensely complicated. And bad. On multiple levels.

It was bad, you admit, but at least now you now for sure – the cult must be stopped. They cannot be allowed to achieve their goals. It won't be easy, though, to stop them without condemning countless people – misguided, but ultimately innocent people – to death. Their leader needs to be removed, but simply killing him would only make the situation worse. It's... a complicated situation, you add with a weary smile.

“It sounds like it,” Howa lifts her hand and, with a rare moment of hesitation, brushes her fingers across your cheek. “All this worrying is giving you wrinkles,” she murmurs, “Or are those scars? Ah, I suppose I should have a closer look...”

Later, you regretfully tell her, that'll have to wait until later. She... she should know about what's going on. All of it. With a heavy heart, you reveal everything you've uncovered – from the brutality of the Emperor's men to the Seer and his people. From the ruins of Makai to the Mentor's sorcery, you let the details flow from your tongue. You even tell her, with reluctance, about Selene's prophecies – ones predicting your death, one that may no longer be accurate. You tell Howa everything, and feel the weight lifting from your shoulders as you do so. It's been a lot to hold in your heart, even for you.

“I don't know how you can bear it,” Howa whispers when you're finished, shaking her head softly, “Never mind any ultimate truths, just dealing with all this would break most men. But... the Mentor, a sorcerer? I don't know if I can believe that. It's... you know him, Ira, we both know him! We've known him since we were children.”

And he hasn't aged a day, you point out, at least sorcery might explain that.

“I suppose...” Howa sighs, and this time you're the one to give her hand a reassuring squeeze, “Between this and the apprentices, I don't know if I recognise this place any more. It's not the home I knew.”

[1/2]

>>46543786

She heard, then, about Shiki's death?

“Sanae told me,” Howa's mouth twitches in a grimace, “Another life lost, right? Soon... I wonder if we'll have time to count every individual death. I fear the future is one where we'll mourn towns and villages, not people.”

Burned Sparna surfaces in your mind, then, and you feel your body growing cold. Almost by reflex, you pull away from Howa. Sensing your unease – It can't be a difficult feat – Howa draws away a little as well. Shaking your head to clear the unwelcome memories, you offer her a slight smile, one that bears an apology.

“Still...” Howa says after a moment, “Having Selene herself tell you to step up and become the leader, that's a damn high expectation to live up to. Do you have any idea where to start?”

It would be nice, you begin, if the Emperor and the Seer were willing to negotiate and listen to reason. Nice... but so far beyond the realms of probability that it will never happen. No, the Seer needs to lose the hold he has over his cult. They need to grow disillusioned, unwilling to rise up and avenge their leader. As long as he has men and women willing to die at his word, there can be no hope of peace. The Emperor too bears his share of blame, but that's... not something you can do much about at the moment.

“It's absurd,” Howa shakes her head, “You have authority over the gods, to a degree, but one man is beyond your reach – because of a title. We live in strange times, Ira.”

Strange, you repeat with a bitter smile, is one way of putting it. “Terrible” would be another.

“Then how about making it a little less terrible?” Howa offers, “I think I've got some wine stashed away somewhere. How about it?”

You've got responsibilities, other people that might need you. Still, you've never quite been so tempted to shirk your duties, just for a while...

>Stay and have a drink
>Head out. Duty comes first
>Other

>>46543990
>Head out. Duty comes first
We need to see Koa first.

>>46543990
>Other
"Hold that thought. I need to give Koa some extra practice before his duel tomorrow, but after that I am free for the rest of the day. And night."

>>46543990
>Head out. Duty comes first
Koa needs some help, or else he'd stay.

>>46543990
>>46544047
Yup, a Loooooooooong night if Ira and Howa have thier way.

>>46543990
>>46544047
Yes. We need to wait for the orders to arrive anyway.

Duty comes first. It's hard to say exactly when that became so important to you, when you started thinking of the greater good before your own satisfaction, but it's a rule that has taken root deep in your heart. Still, it's with regret that you shake your head and gently turn down Howa's offer. Hold that thought, you tell her softly, you've got to step up and be a leader for a bit.

“Oh?” Howa doesn't sound surprised, as if this was exactly the response she had been expecting, “Got to lead an army, have you?”

Not quite. Koa has a duel tomorrow, and you promised that you would give him some extra practice beforehand. There are a few other matters on your plate, but those are all things that can wait – and, in fact, involve little other than waiting. For now, Koa needs your help.

“That boy is lucky to have you,” a slow smile spreads across Howa's lips, “We all are, really.”

And later, once you're finished, you'll have the whole evening to share with her. The evening, you remark with a grin, and the night as well.

“My, Ira,” Howa raises an eyebrow, “How bold of you!”

Well, she wanted to see those scars of yours, didn't she?

“I did, I did,” toying with her hair, winding inky strands of it around lazy fingers, Howa studies you with anticipation, “I'll look forwards to it, then. I'm warning you, though – don't tire yourself out, or I'll be VERY upset.”

You consider yourself warned, you tell her with false humility, hiding a smile beneath a deep bow. Now, though, duty calls once more. You'll see her later, and that's a promise. With that, you stand to leave. Lingering just long enough to bend down and kiss her lightly on the cheek, you murmur a more intimate goodbye in Howa's ear. Leaving her pink faced, you exit into the corridors beyond to seek out Koa.

Duty calls, after all.

[1/2]

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>>46544302

A few quick questions reveals the likely place to look for Koa. The usual lessons and practice sessions that apprentices spent their time on have been cancelled due to the “uncertainty” - as one of the teachers you spoke with delicately put it – so the apprentices are free to decide their own schedules. For Koa, that can only mean one thing.

Just as you were expecting, he is in one of the sandy practice chambers, swinging a dulled sword in slow, carefully controlled patterns. It's not combat practice, but one of the more meditative routines designed to clear the mind and loosen the muscles. Boring, in the eyes of many up and coming fighters, but essential according to some master duellists. Good to see that Koa is taking it seriously, at least.

When you cough, Koa jolts around. “Ah!” he almost cries out before getting control over himself, “Sorry Ira, I'm a little nervous. I thought Jain might have...”

Might have what, you ask, send someone around to break his arms before the big fight?

“Maybe!” Koa laughs, but there is something defensive in that sound. That's exactly what he was afraid of, you realise. “There's nothing wrong with being cautious these days,” the boy adds a moment later, in a prim voice, “I'm just honing my awareness to a level of perfect focus.”

Of course he is. That's why he jumped so badly when you coughed – because he was perfectly aware.

“So are you here to teach me a few tricks, or just to poke fun at me?” Koa asks, “Because I'd rather learn something, if it's all the same with you.”

>Let's spar for a little first. I want to see how you fight
>What can you tell me about Jain? Have you fought before?
>This duel is a bad idea. Jain had feelings for Shiki – he'll be angry, dangerous
>I wanted to speak with you about something... (Write in)
>Other

>>46544416
>>What can you tell me about Jain? Have you fought before?
Might give us a plan.

>>46544416
>>Let's spar for a little first. I want to see how you fight
>>What can you tell me about Jain? Have you fought before?
You're aware of Jain's feelings for Shiki right?

>>46544416
>Let's spar for a little first. I want to see how you fight

>>46544416
>>46544452
this

>>46544416
>>What can you tell me about Jain? Have you fought before?
>>I wanted to speak with you about something... (Write in)
Did Koa have any feelings for Shiki? Sneaking out to place flowers at her grave is a little much for just a friend.

>>46544416
>What can you tell me about Jain? Have you fought before?
>Let's spar for a little first. I want to see how you fight

>>46544479
The apprentices are like brothers and sisters. They are all pretty close. Besides I think Koa still likes Miura which kind of sucks for him.

>>46544416
>If Jain realizes you don't want to hurt him, he may try to exploit it with more risky maneuvers. Let's spar a bit so you are ready for such a style of fighting.

You'll spar with him, you tell the boy, but you wanted to speak with him first. Has he ever fought Jain before?

“I have,” Koa nods, “And I won. Uh, but then he sort of... punched me in the eye, so I guess you could call it a draw.” He laughs nervously, touching the skin under his eye – skin that had, not so long ago, been darkened by a deep bruise. That explains that, then. “Jain gets angry easily,” Koa explains, “Especially when he loses, or thinks he might lose. Sometimes, you know, that gives him a burst of strength and he ends up winning. Other times, though, he loses control completely. I guess it's just luck to see how he takes it.”

That might be something he can use against Jain, you point out, angry fighters tend to leave themselves open. That said, an angry fighter is less concerned about safety – of either fighter. Jain might take some risks, especially if he realises that Koa is playing safe. That's something Koa will need to be prepared for, so when it comes to sparring you won't play around.

“Got it,” Koa nods, “Don't hold back, Ira. Eh... maybe hold back a little, actually. I want to be alive when tomorrow evening rolls around.”

He'll be fine, you insist as you take a practice sword of your own and swing it through the air. When you face Koa once more, your voice takes on a more serious tone. Is he aware, you ask, that Jain had feelings for Shiki? That makes this personal.

“I heard the rumours,” Koa nods as he begins to circle the ring, getting a feel for the sand, “Shiki was pretty popular, you know? She had her share of admirers.”

Was he one of them, you ask bluntly, well?

“No!” Koa insists, “She was a friend, that's all! She is... she wasn't really my type.”

Of course, you shoot back with a grin, you've seen his type. He likes the shy, modest types, doesn't he?

“I told you!” the boy cries, “I'm over Miura!”

And who said you were talking about Miura?

[1/2]

>>46544678

All your teasing and prodding was for a good reason, of course. You wanted to get Koa angry, to rile him up like Jain might try. It also serves as a good lesson for him – a lesson about what happens to duellists who lose control of their emotions.

Cursing loudly, Koa lunges into a wild attack, his cheeks flush red with anger and embarrassment. It's a trivial thing to step aside and cuff him in the back of the head, knocking him down to the sand. While he's down, you press the flat of your sword to his neck. That, you explain, is called “clear advantage” - meaning that you could kill him, were you fighting with real blades. Most duels last until one side has gained clear advantage over their opponent.

“Ugh...” Koa groans as you help him up.

That, you add, was his first lesson. Is he ready to try that again?

“I'm ready!” Koa's eyes flash with enthusiasm, “I'll do better this time!”

>Please roll 2D100 for the sparring, the first for how we fight and the second for how well we can teach Koa. Both aiming to beat 50/70 or 90 I'll take the highest of the first three rolls!

Rolled 98, 54 = 152 (2d100)

>>46544709

Rolled 75, 25 = 100 (2d100)

>>46544709
I hope Koa asks why Howa is our type.

Rolled 12, 33 = 45 (2d100)

>>46544709
TRIO GUIDE MY DICE

>>46544709
Sublime Strike the Teaching!

I'm kidding I don't think we can do that.

>>46544716
Well We fight well but Koa gets so whupped he doesn't learn much.

In retrospect, maybe getting Koa quite so riled up wasn't such a good idea. It was foolish to expect him to shake off that anger so quickly, even with a decisive victory smacking some of his energy out of him.

Koa comes at you hard, moving quickly and without regard for his own safety. It's another lunge where you could have ended the bout in a single strike, but you hold back for now. That wouldn't teach him a damn thing – but is he really in the mood to learn, right now? Not likely, and that's your fault.

Well, that's why you're not a teacher. Too bad for Koa. Too bad, as well, that he told you not to go easy on him – you won't draw this out any longer just to spare his feelings. If he wants to slash and hack at you like a barbarian, you'll dispatch him like one. Still, it might help him if you teach him ONE thing. Taunting him with an insolent sneer, you hold your hands out wide and leave your body exposed. It's such an obvious ruse that even a novice swordsman shouldn't take the bait, but Koa bites down on the book regardless.

Kicking himself forwards, he dashes towards you with his sword extended before him. It's the same finishing strike you use, a thrust to pierce the heart. Deadly, but easily misdirected when delivered in such an obvious way. Twisting, you get your sword beneath what passes for his guard and slap the blade from his hand. As Koa's eyes follow it up and into the air, you sweep around with your empty hand and grab his throat. With your fingers closing around his windpipe, you push forwards and spill the young apprentice down to the sand, casting up a cloud of dust as he slams into the ground.

Clear advantage, you announce as you stand over him.

[1/2]

>>46544946

Once you've helped Koa up and given him a few moments to catch his breath, you sit him down on one of the rough mats and consider his performance. As you thought, you pushed him too hard – he looks exhausted, and his eyes are still glassy with pain. What, you ask hopefully, did he learn?

“That you'd make a pretty bad teacher?” Koa shoots back, a forced smile ghosting across his lips, “Not much Ira, I'm sorry. I guess I'm doomed, huh? Sorry for wasting your time here.”

It's not his fault, you argue, you weren't playing fair.

“So? Neither will Jain, I bet,” the apprentice shakes his head, “I guess I learned my limitations. Oh, but that twist thing you did with your sword. That was pretty neat. You think I could do that?”

It's risky, you warn him, if his timing isn't perfect it'll end badly for him. One slip, and he could end up with some broken ribs. That's the kind of duelling injury that can kill. That said, if he really feels confident about trying it...

“Eh, maybe not,” Koa lowers his head, “So, be honest. Do you think I've got what it takes to win? I was off my best today, I know that, but still. Do you think I should focus on anything? What about the fight itself, how should I play it?”

So many questions! It's hard to answer those, you tell him patiently, because you've never seen Jain fight. All you can do, really, is advise him on how to approach the fight itself.

“Oh?” a spark of hope enters Koa's eyes, “I'm listening, tell me!”

>Play it fair. There will be an audience, and you want them to think well of you, even if you lose
>You're going to need to play dirty if you want to win. Do whatever you need to
>Just focus on getting Jain angry while keeping your own head cool
>You're doomed. Best to concede defeat now
>Other

>>46545031
>Just focus on getting Jain angry while keeping your own head cool

>>46545031
>>Just focus on getting Jain angry while keeping your own head cool

>>46545031
>Just focus on getting Jain angry while keeping your own head cool
"From what you knew about Shiki, would she want this to happen? Apprentices dueling each other like this and over her? If she wouldn't then maybe remind Jain of that too."

>>46545031
>Play it fair. There will be an audience, and you want them to think well of you, even if you lose

Just focus on getting Jain angry, you assure him, while making sure to keep his own head cool. That should be all the advice he really needs to get a pretty major advantage. Although, you think aloud, maybe you could get Jain to call the duel off entirely. What would Shiki think about this, you ask, apprentices duelling because of her? Maybe Jain would be less willing to go ahead if he thought he'd be going against her wishes.

“Shiki...” Koa coughs, as if forced to say something he found distasteful, “Um, I think she'd like the idea actually. A duel over her, I mean. She was just... that kind of person, I suppose.”

Oh, you remark, well then.

Awkward.

Salvation comes in the gasping form of Sanae, bursting into the sparring room and then, as an afterthought, knocking on the open door. “Ah...” she groans, “When did I become the messenger girl? I was just going for a walk...”

Sanae, you sigh, focus.

“Right!” she straightens up, “There's a man at the temple entrance who wanted to talk with you. He said his name was, uh, uh... It was something funny...”

Grahn, wasn't it?

“That's it! Grahn!” Sanae looks terribly pleased with herself, as if she had been the one to remember it, “And he had a sealed envelope with him. Said it was for both of you to open.”

So the new orders are here already. Interesting. That must mean that, whatever the result, there was remarkably little debate or argument about it. Perhaps the military has finally decided to make a move against the Nameless Temple – with people like Takino in charge, would that really be so surprising?

“Ira?” Koa asks, “Are you alright? You look... pale.”

You're fine, you assure him, but you need to go now. As you're leaving, you give him one last piece of advice – play it fair, you tell him, and he'll win the audience over. That's just as important as winning. With that, you make a hasty exit.

[1/2]

>>46545302
panic.gif

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>>46545302
>mfw

>>46545302

The first thing you notice about Grahn is that he is unarmed, the sheath and holster at his belt empty. In his hands in a sturdy looking envelope, sealed by a wax mark you don't recognise. He nods to you when he notices you, waiting until you approach before speaking up.

“Fastest I've ever seen orders reach this far out,” he confides, voice low and furtive, “Unopened, so your guess is as good as mine. I've got to admit, Ira, I don't have a very good feeling about this. You're... still willing to take the fall, if all this goes wrong?”

Absolutely, you assure him, nothing has changed. Now, is he going to open that?

“You do it,” Grahn practically forces it into your hands, “I won't lie, my letters aren't the best. No fancy temple education here.”

Frowning to yourself, you rip open the envelope and take out the thin sheath of papers. Most of them are just proof, signatures to assure the reader that the orders are official. At the bottom, in a clipped hand, you find the orders themselves:

>The Nameless Temple is a valuable asset that we cannot afford to alienate. Withdraw all troops to the capital and make all necessary formal apologies.

Beneath, the signature reads, “Ra Caltiff”.

That magnificent son of a bitch.

“What? Give me that,” Grahn snatches the papers from your hand and glares at them, “What does “alienate” mean? Ah, what does it matter? We're going home, and that's all I'm worried about. Huh, so these came down from the Emperor themselves? His adviser, at least... didn't know old Ra was a fan of the temple.”

You consider the wording – a “valuable asset” Ra said. He knows that if the Emperor attacked, he'd lose any chance of your help. You're the asset here, not the temple.

“I suppose I should be making my apologies, then,” Grahn begins.

>No need, this wasn't your fault
>It might help smooth things over, yes
>Do what you want, I'm finished here
>Other

>>46545469
>It might help smooth things over, yes

>>46545469
>No need, this wasn't your fault.
>Thank you for listening to me.

Based Ra

>>46545469
>It might help smooth things over, yes
"Still even if you apologize they might still be angry and there might not be much in the way of forgiveness considering what recently happened. Don't take it personal though and once things cool down they will remember your apology in a better light."

>>46545469
>It wasn't your fault
but
>It might help smooth things over, yes
Everyone is scared and worried and angry at their home being invaded. Don't expect the more hot headed of the apprentices to forgive what has happened.

It's hardly his place to apologise, you tell Grahn, considering that he wasn't the one giving out the orders. But, you admit, it might help to smooth things over regardless – there were a lot of people worried, seriously worried, by the prospect of an invasion. That said, he shouldn't expect too much by way of forgiveness from some of the more... restless apprentices. Not immediately, at least. In better days, though, they will remember his apology in a warmer light.

It never hurts, you think, to take the first step towards peace.

“I suppose you're right. I don't relish the task, but...” Grahn shrugs, unable to keep a smile from his face, “Well, if this is the worst thing that happens to me today, I'll have to count myself lucky. I'll have to start at the top, I reckon. Thank you, Ira, for putting yourself in the line of fire.”

No, you argue as you shake his hand, you've got to thank him for listening. When you entered his camp, it wasn't a certain thing. You'd almost been expecting hostility, but he was willing to meet you halfway. If only everyone in Tenngaru was capable of the same...

After bowing again, just as sloppily as before, Grahn turns and heads off towards the Mentor's chambers. You can already hear him talking softly to himself, rehearsing the most polite apology he can think of. He'll be fine, you think as you turn away, and you might have made another ally. The friendship of a low officer might not mean much – he can't pull the strings that Ra can – but it has its own value.

Ra... As much as you appreciate the spymaster's intervention, you've got to wonder what kind of strings might be attached. Or perhaps this might just be Ra paying his debt, repaying you for the information you gave him in Garuna. Silently, you thank Soma and her loose tongue. Now, though...

>Howa has a bottle of wine with your name on it
>You need to discuss this with the Mentor
>You've got other business... (Write in)
>Other

>>46545770
>>You need to discuss this with the Mentor
I won't be baited with waifus yet, Moloch.

>>46545770
>Howa has a bottle of wine with your name on it
Not sure what we'd tell Mentor anyways. Grahn is about to report the news. Besides we just defused a really bad situation. Let Ira celebrate a little.

>>46545770
>Howa has a bottle of wine with your name on it

>>46545770
>Howa has a bottle of wine with your name on it

>>46545770
>Howa has a bottle of wine with your name on it
>You need to discuss this with the Mentor
Not really discuss, just let him know that the troops are going to withdraw.

>>46545890
>Grahn turns and heads off towards the Mentor's chambers.

Grahn is about to do just that.

You've worked hard today, and you've earned a little personal time. That bottle of wine Howa mentioned is calling out to you, singing a siren song that you can't resist. Let Grahn take the news to the Mentor, you decide, there isn't really anything else you'll need to add – and, quite frankly, you're not sure you want to speak with the old man right now. There will be plenty of time to speak with him later – he isn't going anywhere, after all – but a bottle of wine left around Howa? It's on borrowed time.

So, with that in mind, you find yourself striding through the temple corridors towards Howa's quarters. Knocking lightly, you let yourself in as soon as you hear the demure voice from within. She's been busy, you think as you enter, with the lantern light replaced by numerous flickering candles. The dim light is calming, comforting after the day you've had – even though, now you think about it, the day hasn't been that long. When you don't see Howa at her usual table, you creep into the bedroom.

She's waiting for you there, sitting on the bed with two clay cups full of wine. You take one and sip it as you sit next to her, wincing at the rough taste.

“I said I had wine,” Howa points out as she notices your face, “Not GOOD wine. Ah, never mind that though – how was training?”

Hard work, you lie, and very tiring. In fact, you might have pulled a muscle in your back. You're feeling delicate, you tease, so maybe you'd better just head back to your own room...

“Ha hah Ira, keep laughing,” Howa rolls her eyes, “Lie down. Go on, face down. I know a thing or two about muscles, you know...”

Shaking your head with a knowing smile, you lie down on the bed and relax. With your eyes closed, you can only hear the sound of fabric rustling. Then, cool air on your shoulders as Howa pulls back your clothes, and the gentle pressure of her fingers kneading the muscles.

Things progress, quite naturally, from there.

>>46546159

>That's probably a good place to end things! I hope to have the next thread up on Sunday as usual, and I'll stick around for a little while in case of any questions!

>>46546178
Thanks for running Moloch.

Did Grahn's apologies go over sorta well?

>>46545913
Oh I missed that somehow. Sorry bout that.

>>46546178
Thanks for the run Moloch.I'm glad Ra came through for us but I cant quite exhale yet since Koa still has to fight his duel.

>>46546178
Thanks for running, Moloch.

>>46546205

The Mentor took them well, but the gathering of apprentices he was eventually presented before was somewhat less supportive. A shame that Ira wasn't there to offer him some moral support!

>>46546234

What could possibly go wrong with dueling an angry, potentially unstable fighter who blames Koa for his waifu's death?

>>46546271
I thought be blamed Koa for not getting revenge on the dude that killed his waifu.

>>46546316

That's a more accurate way of putting it, yes. My mistake!

>>46546367
So who gave the orders to occupy the Nameless Temple in the first place? Unless that's a mystery for now.

>>46546503

Short of the Emperor passing a direct decree, it would need a majority of the current military leaders - Takino, Matsuhiro and Hirohito. So, there could be many people to blame, but we'd need to do some serious digging to find out!

>>46546592
Since Ra could interdict it, that means Sho didn't do it right? There is logic in that statement right?

>>46546592
I'm slightly conflicted as Takino is the low hanging fruit in this tree

>>46546625

Well, as Ra is Sho's advisor, his word carries the same weight as the Emperor's - as far as the common man believes.
Ra's orders weren't exactly legitimate. Better to ask forgiveness than to ask permission.
So, Ra doesn't have the authority to stop one of the Emperor's decrees going out. Sho might yet be our suspect!

>>46546640

Takino, technically, has as much of an equal say as the others. Matsuhiro is an idiot who will support whatever the others say, while Hirohito - the commander of the capital's army - is quite mysterious. There is currently an empty slot, actually, in the chain of command. The Northeast needs a commander - I wonder who might get that job?

>>46546755
The only named soldier we know is Grahn, and I somehow doubt it will be him. Unless it's angry old fart that caused the Zulathoon debacle, in which case we're fucked

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>>46546755
>The Northeast needs a commander - I wonder who might get that job?

>>46546755
>The Northeast needs a commander - I wonder who might get that job?

Hmm, if I were Seer I'd get one of my turned military agents in that spot..

Northeast is Garuna, so Maab would have a stake in it as well.

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>>46546847

Running this quest has taught me one thing - I cannot tell East from West! What I should have said is that the Stone of the North-West needs a commander. The Northeast, by tradition, doesn't have a military governor.

>>46546825

Karasu is facing a tribunal for incompotence and brutality. What are the odds of the Emperor choosing a brutal idiot for such a lofty position?

>>46546904
>Karasu is facing a tribunal for incompotence and brutality. What are the odds of the Emperor choosing a brutal idiot for such a lofty position?


About the same as forces being moved into the Nameless temple. We need to head into there and tell Sho exactly what Karasu said.

>>46546904
The same odds of getting Matsuhiro, a known idiot, into that same position? Though I suppose they are idiots for different reasons.

>>46546904
How common knowledge is Sparna's massacre?

>>46547026

In the southeast, it's the subject of rumors but the local soldiers keep people away from the area. Further afield, such as in the capital, it's virtually unknown. Many people don't even know Sparna existed in the first place!

>>46546936

Well, you always need a sycophant!

>>46546924

The tribunal will be going on for a very long time, so we should have plenty of time to visit the capital after Koa's duel is finished. Assuming people decide to go, I mean.

>>46547082
>Assuming people decide to go, I mean.
I mean, that seems the logical next step unless you throw something at us. Visit Aya, maybe leak some information, see the Tribunal, etc.

>>46547113

I've got a few leads planned, including a couple of Writs, but the capital is probably the next "big" event I have planned.

>>46547082
How many of Seer's followers actually know his end plan?

How many of them that do actually know the ramifications behind it?

>>46547153
>I've got a few leads planned, including a couple of Writs
Oh yeah...Wanderer job. We haven't done that in awhile.

>>46547153
>>46547178
More writs means more chances for spells

>>46547155

The Seer is pretty open about his end plan of returning men to a more primal level - most of the people he approaches are the kind who are already likely to be receptive to his views. The surprisingly high number of who are willing to go along regardless hints at the underlying tensions in Tenngaru.

The ramifications, the fact that the gods would be more savage and harsh than they currently are, is less known. Most people assume that it would be a temporary thing - wrongly.

>>46547178
>>46547266

We've been busy! It's getting increasingly difficult to find time where we can do some more one off stuff like Writs. That's something I've wanted to work on, actually.

>>46547275
>Most people assume that it would be a temporary thing - wrongly
Maybe they need to be corrected. You think Seer's flock gets the newspaper?

>>46547383

They tend to come and go between the cult enclave and the rest of Tenngaru, so the news would spread to them. A smear article might not cause a mass desertion, but it would definitely introduce doubt into their ranks. Sometimes, that's all you need!

>>46547275
So how many people live in the Nameless Temple?

Its feels like there isn't a lot of us left.

>>46547449

I'm pretty terrible at logistical stuff, so I couldn't really give you a precise number. Numbers have dropped pretty sharply, though, with some of the apprentices deserting and even a couple of Wanderers going into hiding.

The soldiers might be gone, but things are still pretty bad at the temple.

>>46547506
I'm surprised Seer's cultists are okay with just killing Wanderer's like that and the apprentices that joined just being okay with their murder.

How is Milo holding with all that?

Are Ira and Howa using protection?

>>46547506
Do the Nameless temple have a dedicated fighting teacher anymore? The apprentices could benefit from him showing them, and a group of them MIGHT be a decent workout.

>>46547648
Howa picked up a spell card from way back just for this occasion.

>>46547679
Given she probably has about 10x the spell Ira does, I do not doubt she has it.

>>46547506
Are you part of spooky?

>>46547598

It's seen as a distasteful but necessary factor. In many cases, as well, the Wanderers that have been killed were known for being very willing to fight against the gods. That softens the blow somewhat. The apprentices, as well, were often recruited by the cult before their desertion - this has been going on, quietly, for a long time.

>>46547608

At the end of the day, it's better than being down the mines! Really, after Pit Progress, very little bothers him much.

>>46547648
>>46547679

I guess we'll find out in nine months!

>>46547651

Not a dedicated teacher, but there are combat instructors.

>>46547705

I'm in spooky sometimes, yes

>>46547725
>I guess we'll find out in nine months!
With the way shit is going, we'll be lucky if we live another 9 months.

>>46547725
Alright you heard the boss. We need to sort all this shit out in less than 9 months. No pressure.

>>46547725
We should teach a class on occasion, I am almost willing to bet we're one of the best fighters left.

>I'm in spooky sometimes, yes
Why? It's a den of rampant shitposting. The exact opposite of this quest.

>>46547772
>>46547814

You've got to have faith. Ira has lived this long, hasn't he? A little longer should be easy!

>>46547819

I could see Ira becoming a teacher if he could ever bring himself to retire. He might need some practice, though, if today was any indication!

As for spooky, well, I enjoy the contrast!

>>46547819
With how busy we are I don't think we'll have time to teach many classes. Still, it could help us reach out more to the apprentices.

>>46547874
>>46547888
I didn't mean be a dedicated teacher, just a class every once in a while. Less a class more an optional seminar.

>>46540759
and I suppose showing his face to the emperor and in general would low-key reveal his sorcerous nature due to him being ageless?

That kinda sucks, when just his non-magical words could carry weight.

overall, I enjoy this GREATLY over SMT London.

Among all the QMs I've read, I think I would say that Moloch has improved the fastest.

>>46547928

That might make for a good way to do something that isn't life threatening for a change. It might happen in future!

>>46547972

It might not give him away, since there would be nobody who knew him from a long time ago. To the Emperor, the Mentor would just look like an old man - the fact that he's looked like an old man for countless generations would be lost on Sho

>>46547998

Thank you for your kind words! Devil Summoner was my first quest, so I made a few mistakes. I'm pretty proud of both, all things considered, but I feel like Sleeping Gods has been a real improvement.

>>46548048
Couldn't we just have Mentor speak to Sho? Not use his colossal and forsworn Sorcerous power just talk to him, like he once did us?

>>46548170
That's probably going to be our job.

>>46548194
*sigh* I know. I almost want to trick him into a training session with us.

>>46548170
>>46548194

I'd be pretty interested in seeing what the Mentor and Sho might have to say to each other, actually. Maybe someone should give Sho an official invitation to the Nameless Temple - he can see for himself how safe it is!

>>46547998
Objectively yeah, Sleeping Gods is better written than London. Less mistakes (Except mixing up East and West), etc.

Subjectively, I liked participating in London more, but I am very biased due to loving SMT and adoring Mia, Amelia, and Petra. Ira, Howa, and Koa are pretty great too though.

>>46548233
We could deliver one when we head to the Capitol.

>>46548233
Sho leaving his palace for once!? Why do I strongly doubt it?

>>46548285
>>46548303

While Sho doesn't get out very much, anything that sufficiently piques his curiosity might lure him out. Of course, he'd probably ride there in a suitably regal coach, but mixing with the common folk might be asking a little too much of him!

>>46548346
How would Sho react to a dare and some risk taking?

>>46548233
>he can see for himself how safe it is!
Wouldn't it not really be safe right now? Unless something changes in the fuel Jain might try to attack him.

>>46548391
>fuel
duel*

>>46548374

Sho strikes me as the type of person who would agree to take a risk, and then get his bodyguards to do the dangerous stuff. Then, of course, he'd find some clever loophole in the rules to get off with is reputation intact.

Sho Tatsuhiro is kind of a jerk! However, he is as likely to defend his wounded pride as anyone else, so that could be exploited.

>>46548391

Nothing to worry about, perfectly safe!
You're right, there would be risks in bringing Sho to the Nameless Temple. Whether those risks are worth it or not is up for debate.

>>46548441
We should dare/provoke/coerce him into talking to Lapis sometime, one on one.

Has Sho had any experience with gods?

>>46548488

No direct experience, in terms of face to face conversations. Indirectly, though, the gods have had a pretty big influence on his life - although that's getting ahead of things!

>>46548516
>the gods have had a pretty big influence on his life - although that's getting ahead of things!

I knew the little bastard had some backstory thing making him all anti-god, but I guess we'll find out how eventually.

>>46548575

Well, we've only met Sho once, and that was a pretty brief meeting - he's got a lot of secrets tucked away!