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''One private room with little old me...'' Zhu smirked mischievously as she sat on the bed, one hand atop her pommel to angle her sword properly. ''...What are we going to do on the bed?''

''Nothing.'' The temptation of rolling your eyes and shaking your head was impossible to resist. You pulled one of the two chairs near the single table and sat, gesturing for Zhu to take the other one. The innkeepers here were really accommodating. ''I'd like to have a little talk about everything that happened inside that church, I'm thinking things are going to catch up to us soon so I want to make some sense of what we can since we have the opportunity.'' You spared a glance at your shield resting near the door; your face might have been concealed but it won't be difficult to identify you if you keep lugging this thing around.

It already saved you twice, you gotta admit to feeling some attachments.

''What do you mean?'' Zhu asked in genuine confusion, a frown coming to her closed gaze. ''Got what we needed with that letter right?''

''Yeah, of course.'' This prompted you to rub the coarse, dirty paper in your pocket. You hadn't tried embracing Ama aspect again after leaving the church, perhaps the vixen had some kind of trick up her sleeve...

''Then why not open it?'' A drip of annoyance came into Zhu's confusion as she slowly made her way to sit in front of you.

''That'll wait.'' You replied sternly. Might have some kind of blood magic contingency on this thing, perhaps it'd be wise to ask Shereen to inspect it... ''I'm wondering about what happened. That nun was carrying an empty jar and the one I broke also didn't hold any ashes, what do you make of that?'' Each cage had nameplates under them, they were meant to store people's remains.

''Huh... really? I completely missed that.'' Zhu's eyelids briefly fluttered open as she put one arm on the table, the second one resting on her pommel. ''I haven't been in Marleon for long and I never bothered walking around the slums, wouldn't this church be the place that handles body disposal for most of the city?''

''Yeah, that's been my impression. We walked inside a reliquary for people ashes, it was a bit remote so probably one that stored older deceased. Her hold onto an empty could be explained somewhat by being in the process of placing a new one but that doesn't explain the one I broke...'' Good thing bodily reinforcement also applied to your skin, punching a ceramic jar wasn't smart.

''...Guess the women in there have their dirty little secrets but is that something that's going to matter? We got busted so I'd wager they're hard at work putting some sands in those things and pretend our little discovery is just a lie. Doubt people would be willing to follow us in storming the place.'' Sharp noise emerged from the table as she knocked on it with a few fingers. ''Could be fun though.''

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''Don't count on that, though you make a good point. I'd rather be away from Marleon once the nuns decide to retaliate.'' If they even do it, your ties to Shereen are useful in this case, even if she's not particularly popular or influential she's still tied with Muribel living god... You shouldn't assume too much; you don't know anything about these nuns.

''Right?'' Zhu interrupted you, leaning forward. ''Nothing complicated, they're doing... something with bodies!''

''I'd like to know what.'' And thus was the subject closed, prompting you to ask something else. ''What did you mean with all your comments about that woman? Her colors were ugly?'' Perhaps that was an important hint, Lady White or one of her followers could use soul parasites; that Magritew had almost brainwashed Vilma. ''It could be an important hint to identity those followers of the white fox.''

Zhu's eyebrows furrowed in displeasure. ''Were they?'' She asked idly before changing the subject. ''I'm not sure how to explain what I'm seeing. People have a color inherent to them and it'll sometime flash with foreign hues that I often mistake as emotions but it's not always the case. For example Arawn, you're a rather dull gray...'' She reached across the table to hold onto one of your hands. ''...but you often flashes with adorable, delicious apple red when I say that I want to drag you to the bed to-''

''Stop, stop! I get it!'' The lust on this woman! Your discomfort caused her to erupt in a brief giggling fit. ''You see souls, right?''

''Probably, it's never been my impression but I never cared that much with the truth. Seeing things is much more important despite having these plucked out when I was younger.'' Zhu leaned back, reaching for the pitcher to get some water whilst pointing to her now open eyes. One socket held this strange chromatic piece of octagonal jewelry whilst the was a simple, tended hole of flesh. ''That nun, she looked... rotten. Can't find a better word, kinda reminded me of a corpse covered in lichen that's been decaying for weeks without bleaching into bones...''

That was surprisingly descriptive. ''In that sense, that nun gave you this kind of ''rotten'' impression because of the colors projected by her existence?'' It was difficult to make sense but for Zhu, this was something natural; while not on the level of trying to teach a fish how to fly, you'll likely be unable to fully understand this ''sight'' of hers without experiencing it.

Zhu nodded. ''Got carried away cause I never saw someone looking like that.'' Her annoyance was gone, replaced by her usual thin, predatory smile. ''Kinda reminded me of Mamonos who tend to have odd spots of darkness because of their Corruptions. Which remind me... did you know your little lord was completely drenched in darkness?'' Her casual delivery belied sadistic enjoyment that had you swallow a shudder.

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'Do you mean Shereen is full of Corruption?'' This, alongside Mamonos birthing girls, was one of the two majors problems that plagued the existence of all monsters following Daiyu ascension. It was hard to believe that a royal of all people would allow themselves to fall prey to such a dangerous problem. ''She hasn't shown any signs of anything being wrong.'' Teruko told you many things about the natural production of Corruption in Mamonos and dangers related to accumulation.

Symptoms took many forms: increased libido was the universal manifestation of this unfortunate coalescence. Then things changed; impulsiveness, hallucinations, mood swings, lethargy, sleeping problems and degrading health (mostly in the form of diarrhea and vomiting) tended to erode the unfortunate Mamono mental resistance. Then they'd enter a feral state that could mutate their bodies irreversibly...

''Burly lord went and left inside his head again?'' Zhu's hand had reached across the table to poke your wrist, leaving you dumbstruck at her proximity; her charming features felt exotic up close... ''Maybe her race deals with Corruption differently but she's filled with more than enough tar to conceal her natural colors.''

''Now I'm worried about the girl who enslaved me.'' Zhu giggled teasingly at your gruff complaint. ''Hey Zhu.'' Her mood motivated you to impose yourself, you rose from your seat and circled the table to stand behind her. ''It's about time to change your appearance a little.''

''Eh?'' Good, look like you can catch her off-guard. ''Whatcha mean? Nothing's wrong with my ponytail!''

''You're the one who got seen, your face, your hair, your weapon... I'm sure that nun told people all about you, so to avoid pursuers it'd be best to alter how you look a little bit.'' If she had eyes, she'd be rolling them after hearing you.

''A tall burly man with a big shield and a mace goes equally unnoticed?'' She retorted, arms crossing under her breasts. ''We don't even have any other clothes, no need to mess with my ponytail!''

''Then let's make whatever alteration we can afford. If a Vigil member who never saw you before doesn't recognize your presence then it won't be in vain.'' She's going to make things difficult.

''Waste of time.'' Zhu huffed, shaking her head.

''Zhu...'' Your gaze idly moved toward the bed and that's when an idea struck. ''If you agree, I'll give you a reward.'' This made her turn and twist her back to observe you, single-colored eye half-open.

''What do you mean?'' Instead of answering her question you walked and sat on the bed, pulling off your boots to be comfortable.

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''You'll find out if you agree.'' You replied, unable to repress a teasing grin as she slowly rose to her feet, her face showing naked confusion as she held onto her ponytail absentmindedly.

''For undoing my ponytail...?'' She asked carefully, temptation slowly growing within her frame.

''We've got time.'' You patted your legs. ''Might as well have a little talk as I try my best to make you look a little different, you can go back to wearing your hair however you like when we're back at the palace.''

''...Is that so?" She had the cautiousness of a cat yet temptation wasn't something Zhu knew how to resist.

You do have some time until your Sun returns...

>Try to get to know your past a little better. Zhu remained quite broad for what must have been a year or two of traveling together... surely there are a few things she'd like to share?

>Gently prod her about her past. How did she get this strange eye? What about the land she came from?

>Ask her about the better way for you to accomplish your past promise to her. For someone looking for the fight of her life, she's not acting like an adrenaline junkie.

>Free

>>3936910
Ask about past, the kind of person we were, our average day/adventures etc.

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''You... You'd better make it worth my time.'' Zhu growled, tentatively stepping closer as you waited for her arrival silently. Maneuvering her body at an angle that'd allow her to proceed on the bed comfortably, you gestured for your legs while petting her head and she allowed herself to be guided and use your lap as a pillow.

''I think a capricious crow will like a little pampering.'' you replied teasingly, gently putting your hands on her head, sinking your fingers into her scalp of pale hair. The fabric felt a little coarse to your touch, small knots, and strands of thick mingled hairs forced you to maneuver carefully as you touched a surprisingly delicate string of silk that kept this long ponytail whole. ''We've got plenty of things to worry about but for now, I'd like to just enjoy myself a little bit. We've scored a victory and that's something I want to celebrate.''

''That so?'' Zhu responded quietly, her body felt surprisingly tense but she was slowly starting to relax. Her hair seemed like a surprisingly sensitive topic...

''Hey, we've somehow reunited yesterday and it already feels like we haven't separated.'' Gently your hands ruffled her pale, silvery hair, undoing the ponytail to give her a much wilder, natural type hairstyle that was little more than bed hair. You greatly enjoyed giving her scalp thorough rubs and massage the back of her neck, tracing the length of her hair tucking wilder strands, many sighs escaped your companion as you continued your ministration. ''You've been rather brief with explaining and I won't fault you about that, I'm just wondering who I was back then... How things were.''

''Mmh...'' Zhu had inadvertently angled herself in a way that prevented you from seeing her face. ''...You're more mature now.'' Her statement caught you off-guard but you didn't stop your hands.

''Our unusual meeting and your promise made me stick around initially but afterward, the circumstances of your little group charmed me... You were the central pillar for the girls but you also never really afforded yourself the time to... relax.'' Zhu interrupted herself wit ha long sigh as your fingertips crawled toward her face, slowly leaving her scalp and now messed up hair to give her forehead and cheeks a few gentle touches.

''Is that why our relationship seemed... complex?'' Out of everyone you met, Zhu was the most forward with physical touches; waking up naked inside your bed had been quite the test of your manly resolve...

''Mh...'' Your fingertips tracing circles on her cheeks and others dancing the length of her forehead made her croon. ''...Your colors made were dim, glass-like, ready to break. Klesiah and Hecate had more than enough on their shoulders, I didn't want to see you break under pressure.''

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''That's how our sexual relationship started?'' Meeting the people who knew you before your ''death'' will never stop being a weird experience. you truly, completely and utterly, couldn't grasp anything; the fog of your memory was so eternal that you've honestly made your peace with knowing nothing.

''I was horny, too.'' Her giggle felt a little startled, tracing the roots of her ears yielded surprising reactions. ''You promised me the best fight of my life and our circumstances were more than intense enough to keep me entertained. Klesiah sin was a cause of retribution for the Knights of the Storms and the queen of Eliaures wanted you dead, so mercenaries, assassins and eventually the entirety of her knightly order pursued us throughout the Allied Kingdoms.'' Another sigh came out of her as you returned to give her hair attention, tucking it away from her face. ''But things were fun... even if everyone kept looking over their shoulders, we smashed through all kinds of troubles with the force of a catapult. Slavers, gangs, inquisitors wanting you in their elven sanctuary...There was even one particularly strong noble family wanting to buy Hecate off us due to her exotic looks, it was the first and last time you asked me to be cruel. That year was the best part of my life.'' Despite her relaxation and your gentle ministration, Zhu's voice was hardened steel. ''It's really fun when the strong protect the weak.''

You could see the former of her lips upturned into a genuine smile, her regulated breathing made her look almost sleepy... Cat or crow, this selfish and capricious swordswoman truly was more than a simple ''battle junkie.''

''Hecate was someone also mentioned by Klesiah a few times... Is she, is she still out there?'' Three companions, three reunions; only Klesiah seemed to know the old man who showed up to berate you inside the Demonic Throne but the three girls who've accompanied you are... perhaps the pillars of your past.

''Yeah.'' Zhu replied breathlessly, leaning here and there when your fingertips fiddled with her wild hair. ''After Klesiah left to deal with her order, I walked around with the gal to find her a suitable place and... I did. There's a refuge in the elven forest overseen by an old druid, perhaps the last of his kind. I left after spending four months in there, the guy convinced me he was more than good enough for the job of protecting her.'' As your ministration became absent-minded, your attention and concentration thoroughly devoted to Zhu's gentle voice and words, something in the fog of your memories cleared; the pathway of souls you shared with the girls jolted into a brief spasm of life like a sudden heartbeat.

In your mind's eye, you saw a girl, a monstrous girl. Of pale purple skin, purplish long white hair, a pair of fluffy antennas falling on the sides of her head. Piercing green eyes, four hands, fluffy fur adorning her neck, back, wrists...

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''Hecate was... is a bug-type monster?'' This time it was your voice to come out without breath. Zhu reluctantly pulled herself away from your lap, single chromatic eye open to gaze at you seriously.

''You remembered?'' She asked quizzically, something in your colors must have convinced her of your honesty.

''I... bits and pieces? I think she was also in Eliaures capital...'' But that was the extent of your memories and the simultaneous end quaint discussion because of a soft thud on the door.

''Y-your sun awaits downstair!'' A muffled voice filtered through the closed door, likely belonging to the oldest of the rodent daughters running around the tavern.

''Mh.'' Zhu wiggled her neck, toyed with her hair; it was now a thoroughly chaotic blanket of bed hair. ''Does it look good?''

''Surprisingly so.'' You handed her string back to your companion.

''Surprisingly? Pfft. I can't believe that's how you end up this buttering session, lame. Lame!'' zhu forceful hand push you back on the bed and she's quick to jump on her feet. ''You should totally do something like that with other girls, it'll make them melt.''

Whatever circumstances surrounded your reunion with Zhu -be it a coincidence or a calculated ploy of Lady White- you can honestly admit being very glad about this. You won't be the only one to care about Klesiah if you met her again in this damnable country.

--

The presence of Muribel holy blood inside a tavern had put the patron on edge, having four members of the Vigil guarding her definitely didn't help. Naveed and his snake-like companion stood at attention and another pair of Mamonos had been added into this little squad; two lizardwoman who definitely looked native to these parts with their naturally bronzed skin and coppery scales. They sported the usual equipment of the green-wearing militias and greeted your arrival with grim nods, their familiar air made you believe them to be sisters.

''Oh!'' Shereen stood near the stair, smile changing into a confused frown. ''What were you two doing up there?''

''Bonding.'' Zhu replied before you could. ''My hair needed a little loving.''

Banu quietly observed you, looking strangely exasperated.

''We can continue back at the palace, someone need to give Rupert his food, did you have an exciting time in the capital my Moon?'' If Shereen could look any prouder she'd be glowing.

''Absolutely.'' She's gone and done something, that's for sure. ''Maybe we should eat before going?'' It was a little late and... perhaps it was too soon to leave.

>You should exit Marleon as quickly as possible. It's been a few hours since your failed infiltration, you might be in the most dangerous time now.

>Mention that one of the gang leader, Lady Fortune, wishes to speak with Shereen. This could be an opportunity to do something about this gang war...

>Free

Probably stopping here tonight we are a bit low on activity.

>>3937253
Well people are probably in the middle of traveling to see their families right now so I wouldn't expect activity to pick up until tomorrow.

Would it be possible to ask why our sun is at maximum pride/smug?

>>3937388
Oh don't worry, I'm not embittered by lack of people. Some days are simply off, /qst/ is comfy enough for me to keep on the marathon.

>Would it be possible to ask why our sun is at maximum pride/smug?
Yes, but she'd rather not say it in the tavern hall, so knowing why she feel smug could happen while walking back to the palace or you could invite her into a room.

>>3937253
>You should exit Marleon as quickly as possible. It's been a few hours since your failed infiltration, you might be in the most dangerous time now.

Let's do our best to go slowly, and take on one thing at a time.


A simple test for checking the validity of ashes (or at least for the presence of calcium, the best replacement to defeat this test is ground / cremated animal bones which is hard to come by on short notice ) is exposing it to a weak acid (A Sour fruit juice [like Lemon or Pineapple] would do) which should give of gasses if calcium carbonate is present.

It may also prove necessary to check on other crematoriums in the city to see this is part of a larger operation, after all i'm sure there is a large amount of uses for a dead body

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cremation#Ash_weight_and_composition
and
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calcium_carbonate#Chemistry

>>3937253
>Mention that one of the gang leader, Lady Fortune, wishes to speak with Shereen. This could be an opportunity to do something about this gang war...
But also mention that something suspicious has happened, and we have evidence we need our sun’s help with.

>>3937253
Would it be possible to start heading towards the palace, ask Shereen why so smug, and then mention the whole Fortune wanting to have a chat with her business?

In regards to Fortune, is her base closer to or further away from the palace relative to our position? That is, if we head towards the palace, will we also be heading towards her general direction?

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>>3938032
>Would it be possible to start heading towards the palace, ask Shereen why so smug, and then mention the whole Fortune wanting to have a chat with her business?

She'll want to turn around and see what's up with that offer, so no.

>In regards to Fortune, is her base closer to or further away from the palace relative to our position? That is, if we head towards the palace, will we also be heading towards her general direction?

No. Her gang is based in The Arch and Lowhook while controlling the docks, the palace is in the northwest.

Was about to close votes but we've got a tie, so I'll wait 30 minutes.

>>3938141
Can we mention the thing we found and if she can scan it for traps and the like? Would she need to use facilities/individuals stationed within the palace for absolute certainty that it's not gonna fuck us if we open it? Do this quietly of course, don't wanna broadcast that we're holding something tied to Ama.

>>3938158
She'll want to know how you got that letter, so this choice will segway into either going back to the palace or remaining in the capital.

>Would she need to use facilities/individuals stationed within the palace for absolute certainty that it's not gonna fuck us if we open it?

No, but Blood Magic is best done somewhere quiet. Even if she use her natural talents

>>3938163
>Blood Magic is best done somewhere quiet

How quiet we talking? Personal room in an inn quiet or would it be better to do it within one's inner sanctum in, say, their palace?

>>3938168
>Personal room in an inn quiet
Will work for something like this, no preparation are needed.

Do know that asking her to inspect your letter is a full choice in of itself, so I'll have to roll one out of three.

>>3938171
How long would it take to do it? Daylight's burning so if it'd take a significant chunk I'd rather just get the ball moving and inspect it later.

>>3938185
>How long would it take to do it?
You'll have to find that out yourself. Gonna roll a tiebreaker soon.

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Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3937427
>>3937835
Let's see where this little day goes...

>>3938198
That's the gang leader option right? I was kinda leaning towards it but there's just one little problem.

We or any of our associates got any pickpocket resistant pockets? We need to give ours buttons or latches ASAP. Kinda tempted to tell Zhu to stuff it in her bra for safekeeping. She even got one to stuff it into? What about Banu? She got a female secret compartment?

>>3938202
4 members of the vigil, Banu and Zhu make any pickpocketing attempt almost suicide my friend.

Gang it is. This must be another long stretch of writing, I'll try my best to be quick.

>>3938205
Ok good, we went to a *lot* of trouble to get that letter. I'll be damned if we risk losing it to some rogue with sticky fingers and a sixth sense for valuables, magical items, relics, etc.

Seriously, it's like those fuckers just *know* when you have something worth a lot on you. Bloody annoying if they're not on your side, but fun for you if they are. Chaotic alignments, gotta love em' so long as "evil" isn't attached on the end.

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''Perish the thought of your precious cat going hungry, unfortunately, I need to share something important with you Shereen.'' Casually gesturing for Banu, the older moon stepped closer while your little sun frowned in confusion. The atmosphere of the tavern felt a little stiff but you paid it no mind, the young man Naveed and his friends would be welcomed addition for where you wanted to go...

''One of her people tried to slip this into my pocket.'' Producing the piece of paper instead of Ama's letter, you handed it to Banu out of necessity due to Shereen's thick paws-like hands and bot hof them read it together, sharing a similar confused face.

''Wah...? Someone of such low character would be this brazen?'' Shereen fumed. ''Is this offer still good? Sunlight is slowly disappearing out of the horizon.''

''I think so, at least they'll have to accommodate you like those people in Redalley.'' Banu's statement sent a cold shiver up your spine, Shereen went and confronted one of the gangs on her own...?

''Alright! Let's have a small meal. Naveed, Simin, Yasamine, Zulaika!'' All four Vigils straightened their spines on hearing their names. Hm, interesting... Shereen might have some potential as a leader. ''You guys should eat with us, something light. We have more business in Marleon.''

''Of course your majesty.'' Naveed, being the leader of his squad, answered readily. ''Wherever you need to go and whatever you need, I'll do my best to provide.''

''Hm mh! Good man. Wanna share what you've been up to, Arawn?'' Her good mood was infectious, repressing a smile was impossible as you followed her to a table.

''I'd rather do that in a quieter place.'' You didn't need to gesture at the tavern to make your point, people were finding it hard to handle the presence of The Blood.

''Alright. I suppose it'll be possible to return home during the night.'' Shereen ears twitched and she grimaced on understanding her little words slip. ''Zhu! Do sit with us!'' She gestured for the chair next to us and your companion, having previously opted to stand not too far from the Vigil escort (grinning at the sister lizards for some reason) shrugged and complied.

Zhu looked a little awkward around other people but you've some faith that she'll warm up after a few more days.

--

''If I may be presumptuous enough to speak my mind.'' ''The lamia said during the journey .''I would like to make myself known that seeking the second gang leader in so short a time to be... unwise.'' None of the young militias had enjoyed the idea of visiting these ''Fortunes'' people and a brief argument erupted in their little squad, quickly shut down by their young leader.

Each of them barely looked a day past eighteen summers, such young people as your escort felt... A cadet's head was crushed by a misshapen beast. Bones and blood spewed everywhere in a sickening noise mingled with all the surrounding carnage.

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They were far too young to be involved with you.

''The Blood need to venture into danger accompanied by brave companions for the sake of all people under the heavenly Sun.'' Shereen replied sternly; her smugness and enthusiasm had been slowly shed away after exiting the tavern, replaced by a resolve that, while not exactly steely, was commendable indeed and had you repress several urges to pat her head.

''My Moon has been given an invitation, thus it extends to myself and you all, your service will be rewarded.'' Ah, there it is, that obvious projection of confidence, that smugness that was becoming a bad habit.

While you were busy with the church, Shereen had gone nad met with the leader of the Vigil himself to exonerate Naveed, things progressed into his entire squad falling into you little sun authority. She proceeded to go into Redalley and confront one of Jamene higher ranking subordinate about her involvement with the dead rogues in a manner straightforward enough to threaten outright execution if something ''untoward'' happened.

Quite a thing for someone who'd been so scared after you mentioned her older sister.

''I know where to find Fortune... at least, where I believe her to be.'' Naveed spoke. You and he were walking ahead of the group; you were keeping a closer eye on potential retaliation from the nuns so having his presence to help part the crowd was truly useful.

''Good, good. Then let's go.'' Despite Shereen enthusiasm, you could empathize with the much more reluctant girls from the girls. Unlike you and your little sun, they lived in the capital...

The Arch, like all of Marleon district, felt like its own tiny city put inside the whole of the capital. Here buildings were tall and wide and the road was thick to allow all kinds of caravans. Taverns and warehouses lined this artery with plenty of stables to accommodate horses and other beasts of burdens. The Roof exosystem was rather thin here, perhaps because of the slums proximity, from what you could see from the surrounding alleys they looked wide enough to walk into comfortably with many open spaces occupied by smaller evening crowds of Mamonos.

At first glance, this could be mistaken as a merchant district but this, like the docks, was the place where most deliveries were sorted though before being spread deeper throughout the capital. As such the Priest Gate, unlike all the others, was particularly well guarded; caravans were likely forced through this point.

Naveed led you into a building in the middle of the district itself, making a brief journey into an alleyway to emerge into a grand courtyard that operated as a little bazaar of open-air stalls. Monsters here didn't look inviting and their disapproving, intimidating glare made it obvious your group was trespassing. Thankfully, nobody aside from your group was armed for displaying open weaponry was of dubious legality in Marleon; how Zhu managed to keep her sword is rather mysterious.

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Your Vigil companion stopped before a U-shaped fully wooden building, it's entrance overseen by a lamia of coppery skin and dull red scale burnt by sunlight. ''Naveed! My boy!'' There was an accent in her voice similar to Shareen, she slithered closer with open arms but stopped reluctantly when the young man shook his head. ''Well alright, didn't expect to be seeing ya with, huh... business.'' Her snake lower body contracted to make her slither upward as she observed your group.

''T'would seem your lady has business with the Sun and thus we've come.'' Daylight was thinning, the evening had settled to bring much-needed freshness in Muribel and drench the world in gorgeous reddish-orange sunlight. ''Pleasantry will need to wait.''

''Mh... Yeah, words have been around.'' The lady-snake coiled back into a comfortable height and moved to open the door. ''Your majesty.'' She bowed awkwardly after moving away.

Inside was definitely a place for some type of business. A stairway on the left let into the second story, a wooden counter (occupied by a bullheaded woman -Minotaur- of all people) oversaw the room on the right and a big set of double doors led back into the main road.

''Heiyo?'' Having all these people file through the door left the warrior species suitably dumbstruck.

''Your leader has business with the Sun and thus we are imposing ourselves; be grateful that such a demand wasn't seen as an insult!'' Shereen looked irate, probably of using the same words all the time.

''Oh... Oh yeah.'' The tanned bull-woman cleared her throat awkwardly. ''She's upstair... though she'd only like to see The Blood and the elven guy.''

''You would dare impose terms upon royalty inside their own demesnes?'' Banu imposed herself, walked up to the counter and slammed her hand into it, prompting the much taller and bigger monsters to throw hers in the air.

''There won't be enough space for all of yous! Just doing what I'm told is all, please I didn't mean to insult The Blood!''

''There's nothing to forgive, brave one, for I am not my sister; I know patience.'' Shereen imposed herself and the minotaur visibly relaxed. ''Suc ha thing doesn't sound unreasonable.'' She turned to you, dark fluffy ears twitching.

>Agree to such terms. Metting a gang leader with Shereen will be an interesting experience.

>Impose a demand, have one more people accompany you. (Banu/Zhu or maybe a member of the militia?)

>Free.

>>3938357
>Agree to such terms. Metting a gang leader with Shereen will be an interesting experience.

Considering the fact that the invitation was extended to us as well makes me think that either this organisation may have had a hand in getting us here or the pickpocket gave us a glowing review.

The Minotaur is probably going to have a hard time keeping all of our companions entertained by herself.

>>3938380
I'll proceed with that after 10 more minutes.

>>3938357
>Impose

Bring Banu, we're ignorant of court intrigue but she isn't.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>3938433
>>3938380

>>3938450
So that's the agree to terms option I take it? Crap, well this is also a chance for Shereen to grow. It seems she relies upon Banu a lot so striking out without her may be wise.

Also, what was up with that spoiler above? A vision? A story they talked about during their argument?

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>>3938478
>So that's the agree to terms option I take it?
Yup

>Also, what was up with that spoiler above? A vision? A story they talked about during their argument?

No, it's Arawn having flashes of seeing the young cadets being murdered during the assault on Daiyu fortress. Seeing teenagers/young adults being viciously murdered had an impact on him.

>>3938487
So our boy has a bit of the PTSD going on now does he? Yet more fuel for Ama's funerary pyre. Too bad our metal buddy isn't here, he'd work wonders for that issue.

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''Then let's not make her wait any longer.'' Your statement caught the older woman off guard, her single eye glared at you silently. Banu knew that, if others were to see discord amongst the Moon of her Sun, then it'd reflect poorly indeed on Shereen.

''Indeed, I do wonder why she'd impose the presence of my second moon...'' The short Anubis idly played with her hair, her gaze toward her wizened slave; Banu was much more of a caretaker despite her collar.

''...Alright.'' She yielded. ''We'll talk about what happened afterward then.'' Her single eye focused on you in a sharp, single-minded glare. Do your duty as a Moon.

In all honesty that wasn't something you can begrudge, you're starting to like Shereen company despite the circumstances. Zhu gave you a silent nod as you proceeded without her, those wild strands of silvery-white hair genuinely obscured the upper half of her face, meanwhile, the squad of militias stood around awkwardly as you and Shereen proceeded upstair; your equipment wasn't going anywhere.

This second floor was comfortably spacious, opening into what looked to be a deserted bar save for one loitering lizard woman reading a book who guided you toward the only other door of the place, opening into... a rather unusual room.

Dark silky decorations adorned the small office with a single alchemical lamp casting a feeble white light on a table covered by a purple sheet. Two wooden chair stood side by side, small chimes of metallic decorations resonated when you shoved them away gently with your good hand to let Shereen through. There was more space up ahead by a heavy blue curtain masked the way ahead.

''Spooky, I like it.'' Your little Sun forced a grin, her tail gently slapping your shield. ''Whoever it is that invited The Blood of Muribel better not make us wait.'' This was spoken aloud and she sat first, you followed afterward while inspecting the darkness: you could see the surrounding walls in the dreary darkness with shapes of furniture here and there.

''Marleon kneels when the godly Pharaoh steps inside; Marleon begs when the heir to the Sun venture in its roads; Marleon whispers when the princess comes.'' A deep, yet feminine voice flowed from the darkness ahead and a bluish light peeked through the curtail as an individual stepped inside.

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You'd expected a fully human woman, yes, but certainly not someone like that. Adorned in enough jewels to rival a queen, ornaments of golds and rubies decorated her body in enough quantity to chimes, all of her long fingers held onto golden rings, golden embroidery flowed out of her generous hips whilst her blue dress looked downright sultry. Her body was hugged by tight blue silks in such a way that you could detail her belly button... Piercing green eyes looked to you and your Sun, the addition of a glowing crystal ball in her hands made the light of the room much more comfortable. Guessing her expression was difficult because a thick white veil masked everything below those brilliant eyes.

She didn't give you the impression of a gang leader at all. Hell, the establishment looked almost deserted, if some kind of aggression broke out...

''Do forgive mine blunt invitation and this darkness; divination is impossible with lights and I wasn' t expecting her majesty at this hour.''

''Well... One of your girls tried to sneak something on my Moon.'' She cleared her throat and continued before the woman could even sit. ''What was that statement about?''

''The mood of your capital, your majesty.'' The lady sat, putting the ball atop a receptacle you mistook as a table ornament. ''I am Fortune and no doubt you know that I've become the face of an...unsavory group, people like me are unfortunate symptoms of urban sprawls. Would you like refreshments?''

''We'll be fine. You're the only one with enough guts to see The Blood face to face.'' Shereen huffed, the apparent submissiveness of Fortune was emboldening her.

''Yes, I've heard her majesty visited the people of Redalley with a stern warning...'' Her long fingers gently traced her dim transparant ball. ''...that will, unfortunately, fall on deaf ears for Jamene folks are stubborn, but you've given Marleon a few more days of valuable peace and I will thank you for this.''

''W-what?'' Shereen nearly stood up but pumping with your shoulder made her stop. ''They'd be careless enough to throw away the Sun warning!?''

''Indeed, for they have the heir blessing. Such a thing is still just a rumor at best but it doesn't make it any less true and eventually, Jamene will embrace your sister influence as her shield.'' Fortune stood straight, hands resting on the table, her voice flowing out like an illusion behind the veil.

''Sounds desperately short-lived.'' That's when you spoke. ''People like you and her -gangs- besmirch the honor of her majesty. Having The Blood tied to underworld organizations is an insult.''

''Indeed.'' Her piercing gaze settled on you, her head remaining motionless. ''How the heir will react remains unpredictable, but it is undeniable that she is tied to Jamene... if trouble from the Shining Family comes, then she will have a shield and in turn, she has to abide terms from a single Blood.''

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''This is stupid people like you and that coward shouldn't even exist in my mother sanctuary.'' Shereen groused. ''Why'd you even call for us then? Why so sneaky?''

''Because it was important for me to see if a subtle message would be enough to bring her majesty and her moons to my door, a forthright message would have lacked... subtlety and wouldn't have been wise with the city mood.'' Fortune shifted her position, leaning forward absentmindedly, her curves somehow flowed with her dress magnificently.

''Before you continue, do you even have proofs of your claims related to Jamene and our sister?''

Again, her gaze shifted to you whilst her entire body remained motionless. ''I do.'' Fortune replied firmly. ''We'll discuss that later. For now, I need to show her majesty an important incentive in regards to Jamene... perhaps I should call her my rival, danger. Allow me to ask, what is it Muribel true wealth, your majesty? And you, mister elven moon, what do you believe?''

That caught you completely off guard. You turned at the small Anubis and she, in turn, upturned her gaze to meet yours in confusion. You haven't been in Muribel for long, the palace had been a lonely place indeed but the capital was so full of activity...

''The people?'' You spoke undecidedly, Shereen agreed with much more firmness.

''My, same wavelength. How romantic.'' The little anubis made a noise akin to a choking rodent while Fortune trait softened, there was a big smile under that veil. ''Unfortunately, I'll have to disagree.'' Reaching under the table, an audible sound of a sliding drawer briefly clicked and inside her long, bony hand was a pair of gems. A small white pearl accompanied by another, purple one of the same girth of that round object inside Ama letter. Shereen ears immediately flattened.

''They are fakes.'' Fortune announced firmly. ''What they represent, unfortunately, is the country's wealth. Astrals and death pearls from the age of ancient gods created by our walking deity. I do suspect Jamene to have one or two of either type and that, your majesty, make her a dangerous problem, wouldn't you agree?''

''M-mind your words, do you understand what you're saying? My sister wouldn't be careless enough to just... give away Muribel greatest treasures to some lowly cur leading a bunch of inbred ingrates whose only way to live is by extorting and kidnapping people!'' Shereen, unfortunately, wasn't impressive in anger because she closed her eyes, craned her neck down and flattered her adorable furry ears.

''Mh...'' Fortune palmed her jewels, clicking them together. ''...I offer her majesty my sincerest apology, my words imply most untoward thing of your kin. I do not like the implication that Jamene could somehow have a connection to Solemnval.''

Solemnval?

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''Stop. I-we understand.'' Shereen took a large breath. ''Jamene is dangerous whilst you are cleaner than Marleon waters. You don't have proofs of any pearls but you -do- have something to prove Ensan meet with that woman?'' The tall, dark-skinned fortune nodded. ''then what is it that you want from your Sun?''

''You blessing, your majesty.'' Fortune put the gems back on the table. ''With my rival ties to your family, I believe it would be wise for me and my people to reach you. Eventually, I want to believe that I could work with the valiant militias to... dissolve my people shady business but that would require peace to remain firm in Marleon.''

''Won't your proof become useless if Shereen lower herself to her sister level by allying to you?'' Her gaze turned to you.

''If violence erupts between my people and Jamene, only The Blood can stop it; two sides having their blessings will imply trouble in the palace and that, in turn, might catch the attention of our godly Pharaoh.'' Fortune took a gentle breath. ''Alliance with the Sun will be a deterrence to prevent useless deaths, my people will not make the first blow no matter what.''

That... made sense, you had to admit. Shereen remained silent, her gaze idly observing the dim crystal ball, then fleeting toward you in indecision. Perhaps now was the time for you to speak your mind.

>''Why did you insist on having me with my Moon instead of Banu? She'd understand the palace situation much better.'' Perhaps, in a way, this is what Fortune wanted to avoid.

>''What is your proof, exactly? If Ensan is guilty of meeting a gang leader, then it should be a matter for The Blood to take care of.''

>Free

Probably stopping here if the decision on how to proceed take a while.

>>3938696
Ok, that's an info dump out of one resembling a cowardly storyteller. So Shereen was smug because she issued an ultimatum to Jamene to not kill (that she apparently listened to with the fear of God in her response) and got a personal posse of guardsmen out of the vigil before that? Ensan's not due to arrive in the city for a few more days so that's how much time it bought everyone before she goes full Al Capone on Marleon?

Then there's this other business. Astrals? Death Pearls? Solemnval? Wait, Jamene is supposed to be tied Ensan/Shereen's big sis. Wouldn't the really bad/potentially insulting thing be her potential connection to Solemnval? We still have that letter on us right? Why the hell is Shereen so apparently terrified of her big sis? Not even righteous indignation is enough to get her to stop cowering...

Wanting to huddle with Shereen as she explains some of this shit to us. Or would it be better to have fortune and our sun do that? Would Fortune detect it if we embraced Ama's aspect?

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>>3938971
>So Shereen was smug because she issued an ultimatum to Jamene to not kill (that she apparently listened to with the fear of God in her response)

It wasn't listened to Jamene herself but one of her top lieutenant.
>and got a personal posse of guardsmen out of the vigil before that?

Yeah, the leader of the Vigil more or less made Naveen squad her security detail.

>Ensan's not due to arrive in the city for a few more days so that's how much time it bought everyone before she goes full Al Capone on Marleon?

That's the belief anyway.

>Wait, Jamene is supposed to be tied Ensan/Shereen's big sis. Wouldn't the really bad/potentially insulting thing be her potential connection to Solemnval?

It'd be starting potential rumors about conflicts inside the palace if two of the gangs supported by one of Muribel Suns go to war with one another. What's fortune is saying here is that anything that reflects poorly on The Blood (Ensan in this case) might be enough of a deterrent to prevent a gang war if Shereen is giving Fortune support.

>We still have that letter on us right?
Yes.

>Why the hell is Shereen so apparently terrified of her big sis?
Ask her! Or maybe you'll be able to find out...

>Wanting to huddle with Shereen as she explains some of this shit to us. Or would it be better to have Fortune and our sun do that?
It depends on what you want to ask. For now, Arawn is more puzzled about his presence since Banu would have made more sense to accompany her in this context but you can ask something else.

>Would Fortune detect it if we embraced Ama's aspect?
You can try.

>>3938996
If we were to reveal the existence of the letter and the odd things we noticed during our excursion (The missing ashes and, the likely Magritew Infected Nun ) to present company, as Fortune should be able to provide better insight into other nearby points of interest due to her knowledge the local area especially since she has at least 2 of the pearls , and possible things that they may be using missing the bodies / ashes for as she should have a good idea .

>>3939165
Sharing your adventure in the church to Shereen and Fortune would be possible, yeah.

She only showed a pair of fake pearls though, nothing say she has any.

>>3939184
Does that mean that Shereen can sense the pearl that we are carrying on us?
It may explain her reaction, since she may be able to sense that one is nearby, somewhere.

The more people know what is going on and to look for, the more pairs of eyes that are going to report the odd things that they notice then rationalize away.

Also it should provide Fortune with more reasons as to why she should try harder to get Shereen on her side.

Especially the knowledge that if her rivals start doing escalating things we can respond in kind in necessary.

>>3939217
>Does that mean that Shereen can sense the pearl that we are carrying on us?
No. Admittedly, Fortune herself said they were fakes but they manage to fool Shereen, at least at first.

So I take it you vote for...

>Reveal your adventure in the church and open Ama's letter to show your proof about the nuns strange behavior.

>>3938996
Ok, just noticed, given what she said and what we realized, we're currently in possession of a true "Death Pearl" that thankfully doesn't seem to trigger shit so long as we/anybody doesn't directly handle it with their bare flesh. It may need to be "charged" however and that'd explain the ash related shenanigans quite handily which means we have a "charged" Death Pearl. That such things radiate Ama's influence is unsurprising but also disturbing if I'm right.

I already consider her to be a type of Deity in my calculations, albeit one bound by rules she seems to like for some reason. Well, actually, comes with the territory of being axiomatically bound to the concept of "contracts." She has rules, hell she *is* the rules in fact, but because of that truth she can't cheat outright because a rule that breaks itself all on its own is no rule at all. Damn, might explain why Shereen's an innate blood mage even if she's trying her best to find/use the "good" side of that almost inherently dark/evil magic. Perhaps that's why she landed that "gift" and Ensan may be a bit jelly, hence why she instilled fear and terror into her little sis. That power may hold the key to her undoing or, perhaps, give dear old mommy a reason to favor her as the favored successor or something.

Could we show the letter to Shereen in a closed huddle and see what happens? How long would asking about why us instead of Banu take and where would that lead the conversation? Could she check the thing for a trap and how long would that take if Fortune was willing to let a Sun work their miracles in her presence?

>>3939374
Also, by contrast, the "astral" pearls may pertain to Mother Earth's influence. As Ama is the Dark, big "ME" is the light. Would it be possible, if we devoted time and effort, to "flip" our perceptions when embracing the aspect?

Like taking a "negative" image, would it be possible to somehow perceive the profound lack of absence of our arch nemesis with practice and thus manage to home in on places where the prismatically haired one's followers may congregate and where we may thus receive help from her and (if I'm getting really hopeful) perhaps hear a word or two from bestest buddy? She did seem to like him in the current age even if they may have fought bitterly in the closing moments of the age of the gods/pretenders as I think you alluded to.

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>>3939374
>Could we show the letter to Shereen in a closed huddle and see what happens?
Well, you could try but it might be wise to predict her reaction if you want to try and be subtle.
>How long would asking about why us instead of Banu take and where would that lead the conversation?
Not too long, it'll move things on why she seems to have taken an interested in you.
>Could she check the thing for a trap and how long would that take if Fortune was willing to let a Sun work their miracles in her presence?
Do you mean the letter? It wouldn't take long for a natural blood mage at all. Whatever grievance Fortune could have will be ignored by Shereen here.

>>3939389
>Would it be possible, if we devoted time and effort, to "flip" our perceptions when embracing the aspect?
Interesting thought. Embracing ama aspect essentially means acknowledge the influence she has over you and pulling on the weak ''link'' tying your soul to her. You'll have to make your own conclusion from that.
>She did seem to like him in the current age even if they may have fought bitterly in the closing moments of the age of the gods/pretenders as I think you alluded to.

That is indeed the case, Gardy and Mother Earth seemed to have had a fight in the past.

>>3939447
Alright then, I shall vote to ask why Banu wasn't called in as we're both not that informed in regards to the court and its happenings (don't tell her our Sun is ignorant of such matters though) and if we ourselves are factoring into any of her prophecies. She's a fortuneteller after all, prophecy is kinda their shtick and if her abilities are real then oh yes, we will factor in quite heavily given what Ama said (don't tell her about Ama just yet).

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3939231
>>3939972
Planning to start writing in about 30 minutes. I'll go where the dice land.

>>3940031
So it landed on my option eh? It won't take long so we'll have the opportunity to ask further questions afterward right?

>>3940070
Yeah. I can't make promises about the actual time spent because things can expend without my own notice as I get writing, but I'll leave options to continue asking for things.

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''Why did you ask for my presence instead of Shereen veteran Moon?'' Your question cut into the silence with the sharpness of steel. ''With all of your talks about the royal family and Ensan possible involvement in highly illegal practices, wouldn't it have been better to have two good heads about the goings-on inside the palace? I haven't been with my Sun for long enough to understand royal affairs.''

''Words of an elven male accompanying her majesty have traveled the length of Marleon; I wanted to witness your countenance for myself.'' Fortune answered was smooth and gentle, like a flowing river. ''Her majesty veteran Moon has a well-earned reputation as well, I understand my position as a... leader of unsavory types, it makes reaching for The Blood that much more dangerous -perhaps even stupidly foolish- so I hoped that a more recent Moon would be able to keep themselves neutral a little easier.''

''Are you saying that I wouldn't support my sun or that I wouldn't look for the most advantageous deal for her?'' Annoyance and frustration boiled in your chest, spilling into your voice.

''No, I'm hoping that you wouldn't be influenced by strong emotions and keep yourself impartial while remaining her stalwart ally.'' Fortune leaned back on her chair, the way her body moved; all curves and softness, was inherently distracting. ''Fluttering whispers from the divine reach my ears, urging me to take a chance, to make a gamble else lose everything to my rival.'' She paused, gently tracing the dimly lit ball.

''You're saying... you wanted to see for yourself if I'd allow Arawn to disagree with me?'' Shereen's voice was like a bird chirp.

''Nobody knows if your godly mother has any Moons.'' Fortune replied with this same, sultry, seductive yet eerily charismatic countenance. With her face being mostly obscured, her eyes and body language translated her mood. ''Your sister's reputation isn't limited to the noble court. At best her moons her pets, at worst-''

''Don't dwell on that.'' Shereen hissed, getting on her feet; her short stature didn't give her any chance at intimidation unfortunately but her displeasure was honest. ''I know damn well what she does with her Moons and what people think. Of course, I'd allow my Moons to disagree and advise me; sycophants are the mark of a worthless leader.''

The little Anubis sat back, fluffy arms crossed on her chest, pouting.

''I apologize for my arrogance in assuming her majesty disposition.'' Gentle clicks of metal accompanied Fortune bow, her veil fell forward, making her look gorgeous in submission. ''I am, however, convinced that reaching to you was indeed the right idea and I hope we can cooperate for the good of Marleon.''

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''Cooperate with thieves and criminals?'' Shereen's sentence was dry and humorless but, thankfully, she seemed to have recovered somewhat.

''My people do not run protection rackets or kidnap exotic travelers to be made into unwilling Moons for unscrupulous houses. Our profit comes from smuggling and handling goods at... convenient prices, hence this base of operation.'' Gentil pinching her veil, Fortune replaced it properly above her nose as it had slightly lowered because of her bow. ''I believe that, if Marleon prosperity were to increase and her economy stabilized, then my group influence will organically wane: a far-reaching dream I know, and today is why I would like to settle foundations for accomplishing it.''

''That so? Is that why you took over this gang by killing the previous leader?'' You effortlessly shouldered Fortune piercing green eyes after you spoke.

''It... hasn't gone that way but you are right. I've had many dreadful dreams about Marleon -nay the fate of Muribel as a whole- that eventually convinced me to try and take some form of action.''

''Dreadful dreams?'' You prodded.

Fortune lowered her head. ''Our country is dying.'' She stated plainly.

''W-what, how can you say something so stupid!?'' Shereen protest was genuine, her true mind -one of genuine empathy- had slipped through her makeshift lordly barrier.

''I can only hope that I've had fever dreams and that I suffer from delusions.'' Fortune reply, this time, held no hint of submissiveness and those eyes had a steely foundation to rival people like Sieglinde. ''This is not something I've told any of my followers, so please keep this to yourselves.''

Again, Fortune bowed her head, leaving you genuinely puzzled. Here she goes, putting herself in a position of weakness in this negotiation...


>Advise your Sun that joining force with Fortune and her similarly named gang will be in your best interest here; she'll have a genuine power base however dubious and a knowledgeable adviser.

>Whilst you can respect Fortune spirit and wishes, having your sun publicly acknowledge the head boss of a criminal gang is just... far too risky in your mind.

>Free

>>3940229
So she prophesies the doom of this nation, swell. Can we ask about what that doom entails? Are the pearls to play a part? Are we? Can we ask her to let us have Shereen use her "gift" to check on something really quick?

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>>3940322
Yeah, you ask all of that. time has been progressing steadily, during this meeting so asking things will likely means ending things with Fortune at nightfall instead of dusk.

>>3940325
Great, nightfall, when Ama's merry band of cultists will be out and about. Still, the fact remains that we need more info if we/Shereen are to make an informed decision and that prophecy of doom is something we need to know about.

How bad are the parts of town leading back to the palace from here? Also, if violence were to happen to the people we left behind are we still within earshot of the brawl if it goes down?

>>3940356
>How bad are the parts of town leading back to the palace from here?
You'll need to go through Redalley
>Also, if violence were to happen to the people we left behind are we still within earshot of the brawl if it goes down?
Of course, you're also in a safe spot what's with being inside Fortune place of residence.

I'll go with your option.

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'You prophetize the demise of this entire country?'' You had to state this out loud, such a statement felt surreal to the point of ridicule. How many false prophets sang a similar tune?

''Prophecy have a core, a story to follow that, despite its vagueness, can help anyone studying it glean hints within its described events. Dreams have been my only warnings; feverish, without links or sense, leaving only instincts and vague ideas...'' An aura of vulnerability had begun to surround Fortune as she began tracing her luminous crystal ball with all the fingers of her left hand, eyes looking into it almost absentmindedly.

''The palace is a nest of death.'' You put a hand on Shereen's shoulder as she shuddered and nearly got up once more in rebellion. ''Marleon is a disease, a cancer on the country absorbing its vitality. There's a village hidden in the hills and arid plains made of death, people go there and die, cultivated like plants. Misery, oh misery surrounds this country, death comes in a cloud of somnolence, lulling gentle children to sleep, never to wake up... Our country dies in a whimper from a fog that comes from her godly majesty palace...'' There she ends, motionless and neutral, eyes somehow serene as they left the glowing ball.

''Are the pearls of powers to play a part?'' Shereen was too stunned to say anything. Fortune took a moment to think, head tilting here and there, causing agreeable noises from her golden decorations.

''Yes, I believe so. They are Muribel treasure, in what way they cause these events... I do not know.'' You swallowed your next question about your potential part in this ''prophecy''. Had that been the case, she would have surely said something.

''This is... lunacy.'' Shereen's voice sounded like a whimper.

''I hope it is.'' Fortune replied. ''If a fever dream motivated me to make Marleon a better place for all, then let it remain a hallucination.'' Questioning fortune mental health was genuinely difficult, she's been approaching this subject or motivation with a surprising amount of pragmatism.

At least from what you've seen and heard about her and her gang.

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''Fortune, if you'll excuse, I'd like to ask something of my Sun in private.'' Both women looked to you, sharing similar surprise at this sudden prompt.

''Of course.'' Fortune recovered quickly. ''You may pull down the curtain and remain in the doorway or I can leave...''

''I shouldn't need much time.'' You gently shook Shereen shoulder again and she followed timidly, likely overwhelmed by all the information that's been forced to sink into her head. Undoing a knot on a hanging curtain allowed it to fall lazily and mask the presence of the shapely fortune teller, only hints of lights managed to sneak through the fabric sides.

''Can you make a quick inspection about potential blood magic traps or sorcery that could linger on an item, Shereen?'' You whispered gently and her ears were completely propped up in astonishment.

''W-what... Why do you... I-I mean it's impossible. Yes?'' Slowly but surely, she'll adapt to your pace.

Silently you produced the rough letter you found in the church. It's paper stained by dust and dirt, the small round object wasn't easy to see to the naked eye.

''I'll need to hold it.'' Shereen whispered, her tail began to wag excitedly and after taking two long breaths, her body glowered in a gorgeous luminescence of red that reminded you much more of rubies than blood. She ran her fingers on the length, frowning when she discovered the spherical object. There was no manifestation, no fanfare; she simply glowed this vivacious color, giving her brown skin an alluring aspect.

''I think there's a drop of blood inside that letter, completely dry but it left a stain. Otherwise, things seem safe?'' She was completely unsure of herself. ''What is it, Arawn?''

''Hrm...''

>Should you come clean about your Church findings? (That also means informing Fortune)

>Keep it to yourself for now.

>Free

See >>3940229 about how to settle this meeting with Fortune. It's about time to decide how you'd like to influence Shereen now

>>3940461
>''W-what... Why do you... I-I mean it's impossible
Meant that it was possible
Updating while being sick is a little embarrassing.

>>3940461
Ouch, so the worst end involves a fog sweeping over the whole nation that either kills them, puts them into a permanent coma (a distinction without a difference given the level of medical tech here), or something far, far worse.

The prophecy also has objectives if we seek to verify it. A hidden village and an arid plain with lots of people dying. A battlefield perhaps? Given the description I'd wager it's the new base of operations for that blue bastard necromancer Oni whom we owe a gruesome death for what he did to those students. We need more manpower that's for sure if we wanna investigate everything and head this disaster off before it happens. This shit is why royals shouldn't make deals with bad fluffy.

As for coming clean, how would it invariably inform Fortune? Shereen gonna make a scene about it and blab out the important info? It is potential blackmail as her moon broke into the church and that means "she" broke into the church and all.

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>>3940526
>It is potential blackmail as her moon broke into the church and that means "she" broke into the church and all.
Indeed, basically informing Fortune means briefing her on your sneaking inside the Church. What you found about the nuns strange lack of ashes and, of course, seeing whatever is inside Ama letter.

>>3940535
Well that makes spilling the beans synonymous with having Shereen support her as she'll just move to immediately blackmail us into it if we refuse. This is a very important choice I take it correct? Can Fortune keep secrets if, say, Ensan showed up and started to ask questions?

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>>3940548
>This is a very important choice I take it correct?
Somewhat, yeah. It would depend on how much you'd like to involve yourself with Fortune.
I'd like more than a single voice for committing or not, so before proceeding I'll wait for more votes.

>Can Fortune keep secrets if, say, Ensan showed up and started to ask questions?
You'll have to make your own conclusions for that question.

>>3940556
Would involving ourselves with Fortune give us access to and command authority over her "network" as it were? Y'know, her intel operatives and info brokers, her goons, etc.

>>3940561
Again, that'd depend on how heavily you want to involve yourself with her. As it is now, Fortune is more or less being forward in wanting to use Shereen as a shield of a sort to counter Jamene deal with your little Anubis older sister, imposing some kind of term and/or ressource gain with agreeing can be done at a later stage.

If she can be persuaded and if you think she'd be useful enough, it'd be possible to make full use of her gang.

>>3940563
Then there is but one final thing. She said she had proof of Ensan's involvement with Jamene. Our alleyway encounter pretty much cinched it but Shereen might need to see it if she's to go and actually follow through on this.

Fortune's gang doesn't screw with the poor and downtrodden do they? End of the day, our sun's got a rep as a sun of the common people/monstergirl to maintain as it were. That Lamia seemed to know Naveed on friendly terms as well (what with her about to give him a lamia hug, the best of hugs).

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>>3940582
>She said she had proof of Ensan's involvement with Jamene. Our alleyway encounter pretty much cinched it but Shereen might need to see it if she's to go and actually follow through on this.

You want to ask Fortune to produce her proof? I can write a little update on that.

>Fortune's gang doesn't screw with the poor and downtrodden do they?
That's her word and Naveed hasn't spoken to obadly about her people (yet).

>>3940587
Sure, let's see the proof.

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''Thanks.'' Your hand went between her furred ears. ''Really wanted to make sure this thing was safe.'' Shereen didn't seem to hear you because she was reduced to a growly protest of mismatched ''you would dare'' and ''do not.''

Ignoring your little mistress plight, you pocketed the letter and pulled the curtain away. Fortune had been gazing into the glowing ball and turned her gaze to you upon hearing your intrusion.

''Sorry about that, there's one last thing I'd like to ask.'' Shereen harumphed stepped on your foot and went to sit first.

''Of course. I have to admit, this took longer than I anticipated; night has likely shrouded our city.'' Perhaps Fortune was feeling comfortable enough to make idle comments. She crossed her arms and let them rest on the table, her cleavages working wonder to distract you.

''I think my Sun would like to see this proof you've alluded to about her sister. It is no small accusation to make.'' That caused Fortune to lean back, entire spine straightening against the support of her chair. Her long finger trailed the length of the veil covering her face.

''I cannot show it, not now.'' She answered firmly. ''I have a witness, and that's all I'm willing to share. I will not endanger a gentle person in our dealings, not yet.'' This was a strong, commanding tone that brokered no argument.

Hm, she does have a spine. You're starting to understand why she's a gang leader.

''You'd resist demands of your Sun?'' Shereen growled, her question met no answer. ''Well?'' The little princess continued and again, Fortune remains still, her green gaze glaring at Shereen, then you, for what felt like a full minute.

''Perhaps if we can work together, I would change my mind, but not under our circumstances.'' Undeniably, Fortune will not be persuaded.

See here for choices >>3940461

>>3940611
Did... did we just headpat Shereen? What did her furry ears and hair feel like? Did that count as a sudden touching of the exotic bits?

So we got the choice of siding with Fortune and whether or not to spill the beans about that pearl we've nabbed from the church. A "witness" can say anything but Ensan likely has unique identifiers that, as I assume she doesn't spend much time around common folk, common folk wouldn't know about as they never get a good look at her. Thus, an accurate description produced on the spot would mark it as pretty reliable. Blood magic or a collar could function as a lie detector for a further layer of authentication. Do they have to be calibrated to each individual or could you, say, take ours off and slap it onto someone else and it work on them same as us?

Leaning towards siding with Fortune if she understands that Shereen has a rep to maintain. No leaning on the poor and downtrodden, no wetwork of any kind (though self-defense is always OK), no extorting anyone who doesn't have it coming, no smuggling in shit like opiates and cocaine that reduce people to junkie/crackhead status, etc. The last one may be asking a bit much (decadent nobles and their habits) so it could be negotiated on.

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>>3940642
>Did... did we just headpat Shereen?
Arawn didn't even think about it. He's starting to genuinely appreciate her.
>What did her furry ears and hair feel like?
Soft and smooth as expected of royalty. Too bad he was too distracted to pay attention!

>So we got the choice of siding with Fortune and whether or not to spill the beans about that pearl we've nabbed from the church.

Yep.
>Blood magic or a collar could function as a lie detector for a further layer of authentication.
I'll give you this hint. Demonkind and the Inquisition are the foremost experts when it comes to finding the pure, undeniable truth and nobody else will ever be as competent.

>Do they have to be calibrated to each individual or could you, say, take ours off and slap it onto someone else and it work on them same as us?

Sorta works the same for everyone. Though they're noble-only items.

>Leaning towards siding with Fortune if she understands that Shereen has a rep to maintain.
Noted. I'd like more votes for this I'll end things here and pick up tomorrow based on what you guys want to do.

Ally with Fortune or not? Such is the question...

>>3940648
>Demons and Inquisitors are best lie detectors

Damn, we used to have ready access to the former, best in the business. I miss them right now. The Demon Lord and her family were fun, interesting, and most easy on the eyes.

I wonder what they're up to. Once a few weeks have passed (one has already) they're going to try and do something that'll affect us. The plans need time to arrange, rituals take time and blood/corpses to get moving, the schematic for a new contraption has a build time, etc. Can't wait to see what happens when that timer dings.

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>>3940677
> I miss them right now.
It's something I hope everyone gets to feel eventually.
>The Demon Lord and her family were fun, interesting, and most easy on the eyes.

And they don't have to grieve Sieglinde's death, good work!

>>3940648
I agree with >>3940642.

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>>3940685
Glad she's not dead myself as well, but it came at great cost.

One of those costs being that if we go down, she and the other girls go down with us as well most likely. That's gonna motivate Daiyu and her family to locate and re-acquire our ass ASAP and damn the consequences of that action.

Maybe we're walking down the street and a small bug pings our collar and it suddenly detaches itself. A split second later a sonic boom shatters the wooden upper parts of Marleon's city structure injuring or even killing more than a few innocents as Elina grabs us and whisks us into the sky just as that collar hits the ground as we're rushed a few kilometers away in seconds into a portal leading directly back to Throne Town. Her shields may minimize casualities however as I'm sure she can spot/guess the places where her enterance will likely cause a death and just put a holy wall up to ensure the wooden splinters don't kill anyone. Injure perhaps, but not kill.

That'd probably take a few months to a year to set up at first glance but who knows what you can pull if you're a being like Daiyu with all those favors, resources, and power (both soft and hard) to work with. Sadly, the same can be said of Ama. Both sides know that though, so all of this gets very complicated. Damn it why did Ama have to be a Tzeentchian BBEG of all things? I liked it better when the fluffy Champion of Tzeentch was on our side like pic related.

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>>3940787
Fluffed puppetmasters are fun.

>>3940799
Yes, they are, when they're on *your* side that is!

Wait, that one may well be as of now. Provided she hasn't a grudge against our bestest buddy. I don't think she'd have a reason to as we never tried to harm her and hers during our time in Throne Town. Kinda wish we took one of those opportunities to meet Mylen/other Siggy now that I think about those...

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>>3940817
All the Commonwealth people actively participated in the Purge, other Siggy included so they weren't at risk during the sudden assault on Daiyu fortress.

On things stand now remain to be seen.

I still think that if we are going to work together to try and stop this, being upfront with Fortune is going to be a good idea since she is the one with direct access to the information network, so she isn't going to tell us about things that she learns of that she doesn't think are of any use to us, where they be the deciding factor in our planning our next move.

I think that Arawn personally should focus on investigating any traces of Ama's influence and finding any recovering more of the pearls from around the city, over participating in the Gang war that is going too occur.

I think that Fortune, and her network would probably be able to put together that we had a hand in the Indecent at the Church even if we don't admit to doing it based on the fact that the Messenger found us nearby, they may have followed us for some time while looking for an opportunity to deliver their message, we strong armed her into buying the lube then let her go, and depending on how public the response / investigation into the incident, and if they alerted the authorities was they may be able to put together a timeline of events.

I wonder what uses a necromancer could have for dead bodies?

>>3940921
So you wanna spill the beans about the church incident. Will we get to make that choice after we side with her or is this a package deal decision INH?

>>3941185
For the time being, I'm defaulting to keeping the church incident under wrap because two votes out of three haven't specified they wanted to come forward and tell Fortune about it.

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This wasn't a good atmosphere. It was important to know when to back down. You were here as guests, true and perhaps Fortune needed your Sun influence for the foreseeable future much more than you'd need her web of informants but imposing yourself in forcing her hands with this ''proof'' will undeniably close down any further attempts at getting anything out of this gang leader.

''Alright, that's not entirely unreasonable but... there's no predicting what'll happen in the future. Would you agree to shelve this topic, Shereen?'' From what you've observed, your little Sun wanted to thoroughly dominate Fortune because of her position as a leader of smugglers and thieves. For a second she bit onto her bottom lips, glaring to you then fortune and yielding with a soft sigh.

''We suppose it is for the best.'' She said softly, though unable to hide her irritation. ''We've been thinking and your idea of seeking our... acceptance isn't entirely untoward but we do have reservations.''

''Indeed.'' You added. Fortune's only answer was to uncross her arm and lean back. ''We don't know the extent of your operation and I doubt you'd be willing to share that. What we -do- understand is that your gang are mostly thieves and smugglers given your areas of operations. I'd suspect there are also quite a few pickpockets under your thumb. I'd be willing to give you some benefits in believing your words about extortions... but I wouldn't' be willing to continue our partnership if your activities start hurting the more downtrodden parts of Marleon.''

''Yeah, I-we agree.'' Shereen cleared her throat, rising to her full short height. ''You control the districts of caravans and the docks, if some kind of epidemic of drugs -the bad kinds like purple sand for example- start affecting our people then you'd better believe that we will impose ourselves in demanding you prove your exoneration.''

''Nothing unreasonable. Keeping the heart of the people is vital for any leaders.'' The exposed traits of Fortune's face gently softened. ''Do we have a deal?''

''Yes.'' Shereen answered firmly. ''We do need to admit that we have no idea what, exactly, should be the best show of support...''

''Don't worry.'' The hint of Fortune expression remained happy, her green eyes almost sparkled. ''I believe my folks and yours have been mingling tonight, when we go downstair I shall put my hands on your shoulder and offer you hospitality for tonight; words will travel on its own, becoming an incontrollable rumor like Jamene own dealing with your sister.''

''That... is surprisingly simple.'' A cold sweat ran down your back. You've gone and casually head patted one of Muribel living gods... It might get dangerous if Banu knows that. ''Though we'd rather go back where we belong, there's... a little something that needs doing.''

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She must mean her old cat. ''He'll hunt something in your garden if hunger strikes him.'' Her sharp eyes glared at you in disapproval for a second... but she quickly softened without making further remarks.

''I'm glad our meeting was so fortuitous.'' Fortune was last to raise and first to walk to the door to open it. Sounds immediately flowed into the large office. A chaotic mingle of noises from flutes, lutes, uneven drunken singings, and stomps had you momentarily fear some kind of assault... until your belly groaned loudly.

''How long have we been discussing?'' You said, trying your best to believe your gurgle hadn't happened.

''I would wager two or three hours. Sunlight is gone now.'' Fortune responded. Despite this festivity, the bar was mostly empty. Sometimes you'd see a lizard woman scaling the stair to grab a few things behind the counter and going back down.

Silently making your way ahead of the girls to peek downstair, the main hall was a heartening sight. A fairly large group of Mamonos were enjoying themselves with talks and songs, sharing boozes and a lively atmosphere that seemed to have gone and infected your companions somewhat. Naveed stood near the counter beside Banu and the lamia girl, a few empty pints beside her revealed that she'd been liberal in her consumptions. All three seemed absorbed in a conversation that made them deaf to the world around them.

The doors had been left wide open for the fresh night air and a significant crowd had gathered where the majority of cheers echoed inside accompanied by worrying noises you knew very well. A fight -no sparring sessions- was going on out there and judging by the absence of Zhu and the other two members of Naveed squad... The women were working out aggression.

''I...We weren't expecting that your folk would be so relaxed around the Vigil.'' Shereen's voice almost sounded like a whisper because of the noise.

''Those who steal and those who seek to stop them don't have to be bitter enemies.'' Fortune replied wit ha softness that was almost motherly. ''My people understand that Naveed and his squad duties are to safeguard her majesty. Shall we?''

>Now is your only time to influence Shereen's decision about tonight.

>Insist on going back to the palace, you've stayed in Marleon more than long enough.

>It would be wiser to accept Fortune hospitality. Not only will it look good to her people, but they'll also protect your group.

>Free

>>3941470

>Insist on going back to the palace, you've stayed in Marleon more than long enough.

Gathering in the one place, for an extended period of time especially when it is unplanned is probably asking for trouble.

We should probably keep an eye on the letter and it's contents especially since we are in a crowd of people that probably contains quite a few experienced thieves, especially since our main methods of detecting an attempt are currently occupied.

>>3941491
Arawn free hand is in his pocket and holding the letter like the paranoid elf he is.

I think waiting 15 more minutes for another vote before proceeding will make things fair.

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Rolled 2 (1d20)

''I think it'd rather go back home, Shereen.'' You whispered to your little liege, who frowned in confusion.

''Eh? Really?'' There was no mistaking the hopeful tone in her voice. Seeing you nod brought a smile to her face and direct her gaze at the much taller human woman. ''I'll have to refuse your hospitality.'' Shereen really did not like to stand alone in her decision.

''That is fine. May I?'' Fortune waited the little sun permission and gently grabbed onto her shoulders as you made your way downstair first, your board and tall frame concealed Shereen so you had to step away after meeting firm grounds.

This arrival, of course, brought a stop to the lovely atmosphere aside from the ringing of wooden weapons. Fortune holding onto a Blood shoulders told more than any discourse.

''I wish you good night, your majesty.'' She said, releasing the Anubis. ''Thank you for coming.'' No offer of hospitality; having Shereen refuse would undeniably put her in a weaker position.

''Ahem, yes, yes of course.'' One of Shereen furry hands -now a proper one- gestured vaguely at the ground. ''Now folks, no need to stop on our account. There's no rudeness when it comes to enjoying yourselves; we can only hope you appreciated our companion's company!''

No words like ''escort'' or ''bodyguards'' but straight up companions, putting people like Zhu and the militias on a similar level to her Moons. It didn't feel like a calculated statement.

Naveed gently shook his snake companion who slapped her cheek and grabbed her spear, looking perfectly fine despite the triple pints on the counter. ''Your majesty.'' He was interrupted when the crowd outside opened to reveal the last three members of this company. Zhu and the sisters lizardwoman entered at a different pace, your friend looking perfectly fine aside from her hair looking even wilder and unkept whilst the pair of girls had a little skip in their steps that betrayed some kind of injury... and the Minotaur that had been behind the counter was clutching her side.

Dammit, Zhu.

''We're going in the palace?'' Asked your companion casually. the sisters seemed to be half fuming, half afraid as they made their way toward their similarly aged captain.

''We will see you out of the city gates, your majesty.'' Naveed finally spoke as noises and songs began to slowly continue, a few adventurous monsters shook hands with Zhu and the lizardwoman, nursing visible bruises.

Clothing, in general, was on the lighter side here.

''Please take a few lanterns,'' Fortune said. ''I'll be looking forward to meeting you again.''

--

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''Phew, the night air feels good.'' The lamia of the group -Simin Merikin if you remember right- spoke after the long silence that had settled inside your group. Traveling Marleon nightscape was... an experience. There was no stifling crowd, people from the Vigil and the mercenaries of the rich district were often seen traveling here and there and sharp eyes could spots shades traveling on the roof ecosystem.

''Circumstances aside, Fortunes aren't bad folks,'' Naveed spoke; he'd taken to walk by your side, the lamia followed close behind. ''I hope her majesty appreciated her visit in Marleon.''

''Yes of-cou-''

''We should take a detour.'' Banu sudden interruption made Shereen growl in displeasure but she realized the implication. Your group had momentarily stopped into Redalley's main market that was now deserted save for a squad of Vigil who looked around awkwardly, trying their best to honor The Blood from a distance. Two paths opened, one led into the closest gate leading toward the palace and also proceeded into the heart of Redalley whilst the other would probably add thirty minutes of walking as it led into a different district.

''We will not.'' Shereen was trying her best to be authoritative. ''This is my mother city, we can go anywhere and everywhere.''

Whilst you completely agreed with Banu observation, there were moments where it was important to back down. The relaxed mood that had slowly come to settle amongst the group was shattered by this imposition, traveling into the very heart of Jamene territory... Was as much a show of force as it was a stupidly risky move.

Naveed was the first to obey, readying his shortbow with an arrow.

>Roll 1d20

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>3941561
Ganbarre

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>>3941593
How in the world am I supposed to handle this when I also rolled incredibly low...

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Redalley alleyway was tight, but everyone proceeded carefully, the lights of the torches from the faraway gate projected a strong enough influence to give the road adequate illuminations. Getting a broad view of your surroundings was difficult because of all the uneven habitats on all the roofs, covers were plentiful so you decided to trust your hearing more than your sights.

You heard odd clicking metallic noises followed by whistles in the wind. Naveed had suddenly aimed toward a shape in the darkness and let his arrow flow and in the same second a wave of bolts came flying from the nearby rooftops. You barely had enough time to bring your shield forward and stop two bolts, their murderous journey piercing into your protective metal loudly.

One more flew over your shoulder.

''Aaahwaag!?'' Someone yowled.

''Yasa! Fall back and get the squad of the market! Simin get reinforcement from the gate!'' Naveed screamed while letting another shot fly.

''This hurt like a bitch.'' You heard Zhu growl. A bolt had lodged into her forearm. Below was the last lizardwoman, looking completely stunned and terrified. The angle of Zhu limb revealed that your companion had intercepted a projectile that would have landed on the militias girl's face. ''Cmon, you're a good fighter, fly!'' She used her good arm to lift the girl on her feet.

Meanwhile, you did your best to cover Banu. She'd thrown herself atop Shereen but that hadn't spared your little, a quiver had lodged inside her shoulder and the poor girl was completely overwhelmed in pain. ''Bastards are running away!'' You heard Naveed as he let fly another arrow, no more bolts came flying from the darkness. ''Please, grab her majesty and exit!''

''D-do-don't!'' Shereen was barely able to breathe or say anything through the pain, yet still, she tried. ''Don't let me... Don't let words out!'' She gargled. ''If mother finds out... Redalley will be put to the sword.''

For a second, a vague of stupefaction settled on anyone but Banu. ''She right.'' The older protector said grimly. ''Arawn, do your best to shield Shereen from wandering eyes and remove those damn things from your shield. You, cover that arm, get behind him or something, try to keep your bloodstains below your waist.''

''Aaagii!'' Shereen erupted into gasping sobs when Banu effortlessly lifted her at a painful angle to hide the wound as best she could. ''We're not out of danger yet, go!''

Thankfully -or perhaps oddly- there wasn't any aggression as the group fled out of Redalley; total confusion reigned with the militias and while the story that someone had tried to harm Naveed was flimsy at best, it was enough of an excuse to shut down the entire place.

--

>Will post continuation and choice tomorrow. Didn't want to leave you guys on a rolling cliffhanger now...

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The road between the palace and Marleon was a large, empty stretch of land free of souls and for a time, your group proceeded in awkward silence as you held the only remaining lamp. Shereen constant, quiet whimpers tugged at your heart, tightening your jaw and grip was your only outlet.

''Shereen...'' Banu spoke gently, moving very carefully. The fluffy girl was a ball of sobs inside her firm arms and as you approached to give more light, the elder sat on the side of the road whilst every little movement of hers made the princess yelp and protests that, added with her weeping, only increased her agony. Shereen face was a complete mess of tears and your new angle easily allowed you to see the bolt penetrating her shoulder, at first glance, it didn't look too bad... but her small frame made things dangerous, the damn thing had likely lodged inside her bone.

Zhu remained silent behind you, clutching her wounded arm on her side. You've given her a hand in making a makeshift tourniquet and bandage for by tearing up clothing.

''Arawn, can you get a couple of potions from my pouch for Zhu?'' Banu eye didn't leave her little charge. ''I'm not sure if one will be good enough...''

''It'll work out, don't worry. I'll gulp it down like a bad case of metal poisoning.'' Zhu replied then casually bit onto the bolt inside her arm and began to slowly pull it out of her flesh.

''Mother's Mercy, Zhu! At least wait for me to get the stuff before you make yourself bleed like a pig!'' You replied, dropping your shield to get a better grasp on Banu pockets and extracting a pair of thin bottles full of red liquid. By the time you walked up to your old companion, she'd already pocketed the bolt and her opened wound was hemorrhaging with renewed strength that.

At least pre-emptive first aid prevented worse.

''Isn't being stoic with pain cool?'' She asked while snatching one of the bottles, opening the plug with her teeth.

''Rub some salt to see how ''stoic'' you'd be.'' You growled back, she could have at least waited for you to pull it out gently or drink one bottle before... bah!

She laughed, whispering a soft ''cute'' that made you turn your back to her as she gulped the pair of medicinal potions.

''I-It's... not so bad.'' You heard Shereen whisper, she was still all curled up inside her protector embrace but had managed to find enough strength to look up.

''There's no way to fool the palace guards in your current state, Shereen.'' Honest fear and worry settled on your little Sun.

''Then... you'll have to pull it out a-and make me drink...? It's... it's gonna hurt huh?'' Shereen laughed, coughed and whined almost all at once.

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Banu expression remained reserved, her single eye gazing at the little bleeding Anubis for a silent few seconds. ''No.'' She responded firmly. ''I'm going to do something that'll look stupid, I need you to trust me.'' Her neck craned upward to look at you. ''Arawn, take my place and support your Sun. Make sure that neither of you moves no matter what.''

''What in the world do you intend to do?'' She didn't answer your question, her single glare demanded that her words were obeyed and so you complied, letting your shield slide on the ground loudly, you briefly to eyed with your blue gauntlet to test it's firmness against your skin and took Banu place in holding Shereen. The girl was in far too much pain to make any protest but, sure enough, she looked worried and made no comments when she was forced to move and endure more jolts of agony.

Banu discarded the thin shawl covering her head as she walked about a meter away, turned around and seemed to observe a point behind you, the gorgeous wavy red tattoos on her skin suddenly came alight without warning with a gorgeous luminescence of gold that was all the more highlighted in the surrounding darkness of night. She disappeared from view the next second and remerged behind you in a crouch, took a glance behind her shoulder and disappeared once again, re-emerging from whatever ether she slipped into in the first spot she'd used to plot whatever it is she was doing in the same crouched position. Pushing herself off the ground once again and jumping nimbly, Banu began this utterly confusing and indeed ridiculous back and forth teleportation.

Forward, backward, forward, backward... She jumped like that for ten, twenty, thirty sequences without fatiguing, leaving Zhu equally baffled. Eventually, you began to witness a new phenomenon; the space between each jump began to be filled with a strange white fog that, bound by gravity, began to fall on you, Shereen and the ground. It felt fresh to the skin like morning dew and that's when you finally realized what was happening.

''Holy...?''

''Ah!?'' Your peripheral vision witnessed the perking of Shereen ears. The crossbow bolt lodged in her shoulder had somehow been pushed out, her wound had closed leaving no bleeding behind. ''I'm... okay?'' She suddenly cough black spittles flowing out of her mouth to stain the blood covering your clothes.

Banu stopped this back and forth after Shereen exclamation. Heavy breathing and sweat from her exertion covered her body and she grabbed her now dirtied shawl, rolling it around her arm.

''I am no holy mage.'' She stated firmly as you reopened your mouth to ask about that.

''Grandma got mysteries and moves, you're quite interesting.'' Zhu remarked. The healing potion had done most of this job by already closing the hole in her arm, it'll take an hour or two to repair all the internal damage, she was still clutching it on her belly.

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''Grandma is going to shove some soap in your mouth if you keep being cheeky.'' Replied the grumpy Moon.

''Please do.''

--

Your little Sun had passed out after being healed and Banu was holding her in the similar princess carry she'd previously used to conceal the blood staining her clothes as the gate of the palace small inner-city came into view. Your shield helped conceal Zhu's wounds as she walked beside you a few steps behind the wizened older woman.

''Quite the day huh?'' Whispered your companion.

''Yeah...'' Part you regretted holding back with your gauntlet, perhaps zapping someone could have made a prisoner.... but then you'd also risk causing a wildfire on the wooden roofs. ''...have I satisfied my quota for your entertainment?''

''Pfftahaha.'' You couldn't repress a smirk on hearing her crude laugh. ''Yeah. Things are different than back then... but I'm liking it.''

Things got quite hairy back there, though your aggressors were very quick to flee after their failed assault... Bah, no matter; a crossbows ambush in the middle of Jamene territory is inexcusable.

As your group approaches the closed gate -which opened without reproach when the guards instantly recognized Banu and the royal charge dozing off in her arms- you began to wonder about what kind of excuses you'd need to keep this crow out of your bed.

>Here come a mysterious choice...
>Elina
>Sieglinde
>Klesiah
>Hao.

Also, I think that I'll pre-emptively end our thread here. Thanksgiving seems to make my players very busy indeed so I'd like to ask this: are you guys satisfied with what happened? There hasn't been a whole lot of votes, so I'd like to know if anyone feels frustrated they couldn't influence something.

>>3942417
Thanks for running dude. Got a few questions. First, how bad could that ambush have gone? Seems the plan was to just snipe all the guardsmen and maybe wound Shereen and her moons so that we would all agree to get captured by Jamene's goons for God only knows what. It would seem this is a recurring thing for our owner as well. Didn't she get shot the last time she tried to prevent bloodshed?

Second, does our room in the palace have a window? We need to get a room without one of those. That way the chair against the door would work. Well, provided she didn't sever the door hinges. I don't think she's the type to mind it if she's "seen" if ya catch my meaning so a missing door may not be an issue for her. Still, we must endeavor to maintain our innocence until we have found love!

Third, we're going to have to get revenge on these assholes as what amounts to an assassination attempt on us isn't something you can just let slide. However, seems we've got a hardass tyrant for a supreme ruler around these parts. Not just slowly torturing the culprit along with their extended family, friends, and cute puppies to death, but exterminatus a whole friggin' district on top of that? I mean, if she died I'd get it but she lived, why go on a genocidal rampage? We could use Fortune's gang but that starts/amplifies the gang war. Plus she might not mind that district getting wiped out if her rival dies as a result.

And the mystery choice. This gonna be a servant dream where we see a bit of their past or are we gonna get to see what they've been up to recently. I know it's too much to hope for but a line of communication would be so very, very helpful right now. If only we could tell one of them we're fine and where we happen to be would get the ball rolling nicely.

>>3942417
>Sieglinde
Considering the nature of the vote we're probably going to be seeing more of whomever gets selected soon.


I wonder if we're going to find whomever was responsible for that attack preemptively lynched, in order to preempt retributive strikes, after all they pretty much just gave us the perfect reason as to why they need to be dealt with ASAP.

The thing with Time zones makes things a little awkward, so I'm either asleep, running errands or working during the shorter voting periods, not that I'm asking you to changing anything, as i doubt you would be able to shift things far enough to make a difference, and it would probably interfere with other voters as well. also i think that workloads tend start to increase dramatically around this time of year.

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>>3942446
>Thanks for running dude.
I'm always happy to provide. It was a strange reversal this week since my players are busier than me! I'm planning of making the new thread next week, probably Monday or Tuesday.

>First, how bad could that ambush have gone? Seems the plan was to just snipe all the guardsmen and maybe wound Shereen and her moons so that we would all agree to get captured by Jamene's goons for God only knows what.
Well... I rolled super low and then you guys crit failed so I couldn't be too harsh about it. Let's say this ambush was something I wanted the numbers to decide.
>It would seem this is a recurring thing for our owner as well. Didn't she get shot the last time she tried to prevent bloodshed?
Yup, she got a bolt in the back for her trouble.

>Second, does our room in the palace have a window?
None.

>I mean, if she died I'd get it but she lived, why go on a genocidal rampage?
You haven't seen the Pharaoh yet so all Arawn know is hearsay but her reputation is a ruthless one. If what just happened get back to her, things could get... dramatic.

>This gonna be a servant dream where we see a bit of their past or are we gonna get to see what they've been up to recently.
A little bit of this, a little bit of that...

>>3942449
>The thing with Time zones makes things a little awkward, so I'm either asleep, running errands or working during the shorter voting periods, not that I'm asking you to changing anything, as i doubt you would be able to shift things far enough to make a difference, and it would probably interfere with other voters as well. also i think that workloads tend start to increase dramatically around this time of year.

Noted. I get lonely without votes. I've been thinking of potentially setting up discord to help notify updates. Is twitter enough for that with you guys?

>>3942455
So a bit of their past and a bit of their present? Voting open until next thread about to be posted? I need to think a bit, too bad we only get one I assume.

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>>3942474
>So a bit of their past and a bit of their present?
Some choices will be for the present, others will be the past. I won't go into details.

>Voting open until next thread about to be posted?

I'll start working on things once I get a good majority vote. Otherwise, the cutoff point will be this Friday I'd say. I'd like to work on things during the weekend to start on Monday.

>>3942417
>Sieglinde
God I hope this' the best choice.

>>3942417
Kind of a toss up between Sieg and Klesiah. Sieg would be interesting but if we pick Klesiah we might also get an interlude with the entity she's fused with and that's a mystery we need to solve.

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Two hard votes for Sieg, the demoness really is appreciated huh?

Also, I had an idea about doing something special for the holidays and maybe a little celebration of our quest being two years old.

After our thread next week... Would you guys like a special thread where we incarnate our previous protagonist? Think of it as an opportunity to see a new side of the world and also interacting with our crew from another perspective.

>>3943688
Other girls were gaining fast, but as of right now she was/is best girl (followed closely by Vilma of course). Her deadly bits make her that much more appealing. We still need to feel that tail of hers damnit!

What would incarnating as other Siggy involve? Could we perhaps opt for a kind of "holiday special" where everyone's in a happier world like in the "healing" shorts for GFL for more slice of life/comedy?

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>>3943730
>(followed closely by Vilma of course)
Too bad you aren't soul linked to her. I wonder what the little shortstack ahs been up to...

My idea was to simply incarnate him and catch a glimpse of what's happening with the other crew while Arawn is stuck in Muribel, things perhaps won't be perfectly happy but I'll aim for a positive vibe all around while making this little sidestory canon. Still, the idea of a genuine happy AU could be compelling too... I'll have to think on that after the next thread who could or could not be a little intense.

>>3943743
It doesn't have to be totally happy, just "happier". Like those shorts I mentioned. They still fight battles and all, but it's more focused on being funny and lighthearted instead of being, well, I think you know how that goes.

What do you mean by intense?

>>3943774
I think I prefer the vibe I'll ge going for with that little side venture instead of making a total what-if. We've talked about Zipangu often and I think players should see how the girls are doing so far away from Arawn too. Happy time, happy time... But I'm always open to suggestions with this little holiday special.

Banu might be the strong stoic type but I think you can guess how ungodly angry she is. Still, thing's wil lbe happening next week.

>>3943780
So all/most the girls are in Zipangu right now? Makes sense for the ones we were linked to and I think Martha transferred her workshop to the area to be close enough to her big sis so that any invention she came up could be used in a timely manner. God I hope Martha's working on a soul link backtrace machine.

Wouldn't "our" girls not much like other Siggy though? I mean, tried to kill our Sieg and made her sick as a result if I recall. Or did he try and murderize Deru only for Sieg to take one for the family and end up like she is now? It was one or the other. Unless he's been spending the past year trying to earnestly make amends for that somehow. Then they might, might (perhaps against their better judgement), be starting to warm up to/trust him.

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>>3943795
>Or did he try and murderize Deru only for Sieg to take one for the family and end up like she is now?
He had a mental breakdown, but yeah that happened.

>Unless he's been spending the past year trying to earnestly make amends for that somehow. Then they might, might (perhaps against their better judgement), be starting to warm up to/trust him.
They've been living far apart so the relation between them is rather... tense to put it mildly but Deruella has been acting as Siegfried eldest daughter tutor until the trouble in Throne Town, so to the two countries/families did have plenty of contacts.

What I'd like to do with my holiday special is to simply show another perspective without needing to read my old quest and perhaps salvage a little something here and there, Siegfried hasn't been fair to Elina and Sieglinde, things might be tense but there's no outright hatred. It's a little side story that I think could be appreciated for my players, especially since we haven't seen our crew for a while now!

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>>3956880