‘’So, what’s your story?’’

You answer with silence as your brain piece together the last few seconds, the very real image of a two meters talls half spider woman and the bright, yellow, vertical eyes of Athena mesmerizing you, so you could avoid looking at that hand on her sword, with quite the agitations in the hallway as some faraway explosion rocked the palace at uneven interval and some very, very worked up catgirl certain her tail – now painted white - needed to be cut off for good while what looked like a beheaded suite of armor was trying to calm her down and monsters going around left and right with foods, woods, decorations…

You’d expect explosions to work up more than a minority of people; still you can hear the buzzing going around just outside that wooden, bolted door where, for all you know, a knight and a potential widow maker are waiting in ambush.
Who could have guessed a monster settlement would be this lively?

There’s another, closer sound, this time your company make himself comfortable by taking place in a chair adjacent the only window of the room, now that you see it more clearly the whole room is pretty small but weapons are sitting in racks, mainly swords and spears with the odd wooden shields, maybe this room is an observation post? It does give a very clear and nice view of the busy courtyard.

‘’First of Spring is always a very busy time, its tradition for the Queen to do similar things by this point, hell last year she disguised half the servants and gave one of them instructions to her location while she disappeared.’’

So he says, yet his tone doesn’t exactly seem merry.

‘’Names Garret, I’ll ask again, what’s your story? I don’t remember you and there is not a lot of sane, live men around these parts.’’

One bump, else I can always do this at a later time. Also previous threads

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Monster+girls+quest

>>18442717
"I'm Siegfried Shieffer, and I was sought out and brought here by Slyphis and Athena to meet the Queen."

That's what happens when you vanish without a word. People decide it's dead and move on. Maybe.

I'm not really good with flowery speech or stuff like that. Uhm. Introduce ourselves, I guess. Don't tell him too much. We don't know him yet.

"I am Siegfried Shieffer, and I just snuggled the Queen's tails."

>>18442878

This. Plus some major points of our journey here.

>>18442707

Glad to see this continuing.

Can’t help but think of this man anything but suspicious, maybe his questions are simple idle curiosity and your prudence is unneeded but so far, beside pulling you in by force and avoiding an abominable fate, the man isn’t exactly on your friend list just yet.

But answering him wouldn’t exactly hurt right now, you straighten yourself and cast a quick glance at the closed door, but train your eyes on the sitting man who’s looking at you in return.

"I'm Siegfried Shieffer, and I was sought out and brought here by Slyphis and Athena to meet the Queen."
In one clear sentence, this Garret frown and doesn’t even try to hide it.

‘’Shieffer? I heard that name before, isn’t that… somewhere up north?’’

He rub his chin while he study you

‘’The Queen sending two VIP to gather another one? I knew she always was eccentric… anyway, be sure to stay on guard, while this place is civilized and feral are extremely rare, some monster think it’s impossible to take a man by force’’

The man throws some dices on the small table near the window, then look outside.

‘’Anyway, I’m pretty sure Yuria and Athena gave up chase because today is a busy day, we could always play dice to pass the time, I won’t pry anymore, if the queen want you here it’s not really my business to know unless I’m told.’’


>>18442888

Of course, its entirely my fault and I should toughen up when I get kicked in the balls but sometime, inspiration is a screen smoke.

Getting that internal service error and sent my update a few time, maybe it'll pop up again, sorry for that

"Yes, the Shieffer from north. The family is, from what I know, perished apart from me, and the Archmage of Fire was my mother."

>>18443059
Meant to add that if there's some part of that that isn't true then punch me in the face and treat it as it really is and not as written.

>>18443003
Nah. Getting kicked in the balls hurts quite a bit. You should just scream in pain, you know.

Yeah. Why not. Gambling to pass the time is a good idea right now.

>>18443003

Sit down, play a couple of rounds with him.

"So then would you care to indulge mine? Why would you be here in Zipangu and how long have you been here?"

>>18443059
We really shouldn't tell him that.

>>18443003
"Dice? I suppose I could spare a moment for a game. I do not think Athena would give up so easily - she can be persistent. As can Sylphis."

>>18443079
Why not?

>>18443079

No idea who and what he is yet. For all we know, he might be in the court as a spy for some other power.

>>18443091
That's why:
>>18443095
You misclicked, didn't you?

>>18443106

Aye. My apologies but i think its obvious what i was getting at.

Why not? The last week was pretty tense, having amnesia, befriending monsters, risking your life, discovering new abilities, saving young women, befriending a Lord, discovering some major part of your past…

Yes the college was quite a place wasn’t it? Learning of your mother demise was harsh; yes somehow thinking back to what happened back there is irritating. There this feelings in your guts, as if you’re reaching out for something but it’s keep away, masked by a smoke screen.

So you resolve to ignore it and sit at the table, the man has six dices and you see him nod at you.

‘’Straights beat pairs’’ He says simply, however he gesture for you to make the first rounds.

‘’Shieffer is up north, yes, a rather famous noble family’’

The man rests his chin on his fist and nod slightly

‘’Very few names travel here, pardon my ignorance, but if it’s known even here, that means you must have one hell of a legacy, I think I might see why Ame-no-Uzume searched for you.’’

You kept your grunt when your roll is abysmal, the man picks up the dices and roll, and his is just as bad.

‘’Would you care to indulge my curiosity?’’ You ask suddenly.

‘’Shoot’’

‘’Why would you be here in Zipangu and how long have you been here?"

Your dice give you a double pairs.

The man at your front sighs and rolls, with quite a terrible loss.

‘’Me and the Queen have similar interest and I got seriously fed up with the backstabbing, hedonistic way of the ‘’center’’ land. As for my time, it’s been close to two years’’

He doesn’t add anything else, you have to admit that he’s hard to pinpoint, his tone was completely neutral and free of emotions.

‘’So’’

He says, as he beat your roll with a pair.

‘’Do you have any… duty, given by our fair Queen?’’

Yeah, no >>18443059
Play dice.

>>18443220
"Duty? Oh yes, to snuggle her tails. To tell you the truth, they are even more fluffy than they seem."

>>18443220

"None as of yet. Pray tell, what duties might those usually be? I would like to be able to prepare myself adequately before I am tasked."

Roll a couple more rounds.

"Are you from a noble line as well, Garrett? Or at least highly placed enough in some court or profession for the politics to get to you in such a manner."

>>18443220
"At the moment? No, I do not. After seeing the mischief wrought in the palace, I might thing that is for the better. She is quite... excitable."

Wow, this seems quite deceased.
Which sucks, because this is awesome.
Just a hint INH, maybe make threads with more consistent distances of time. Par exemple, the two months between 6 and 7 did no good, as didn't the month long pause between 9 and this.

>>18443293
And now you killed it. Great job arsehole.

"At the moment? No, I do not’’

Although you think back on what you saw in the past hour and you can’t help but add the next comment.

‘’After seeing the mischief wrought in the palace, I might thing that is for the better. She is quite... excitable."

Who the hell would use firework and small scale explosives for a prank anyway?

Garret make a strange sound, a laugh drowned in a grunt, a dice also fumble but, with impressive reflex, he catch it between two fingers before it’s even halfway to the ground.

‘’She’s an Inari, if she’s an example of her people then I’m willing to believe all fox-women are mischievous, still she got a good head on her shoulders, it’s just that today is quite important and its tradition for her to do… similar things.‘’

You make your round and lose; still this game is making you comfortable.

‘’As far as duty goes, combing her tails would be quite heavenly.’’

Garret tries to stifle his laugh, and succeed, however his roll turn out horrible.

‘’I’ve never heard of anyone touching her tails, apparently it’s a great show of trust for the Inari to do something like that.’’
A brief silence and he add, crystal clear.

‘’Lucky bastard’’

However your next question is a bit more serious.

‘’Pray tell, what duties would she give to a newcomer like me?’’

Garret shrug

‘’No idea, her circle of retainer is quite unique. And dwindling.’’

A small awkward silence follows.

>field too long

"Are you from a noble line as well, Garrett? Or at least highly placed enough in some court or profession for the politics to get to you in such a manner."

The man roll, stay silent for a few rounds as the sounds of the courtyard fill the room.

‘’No, I had a friend to help, and made certain family stayed ignorant.’’

Then he looks you in the eyes and sighs.
‘’But-‘’

Only the interruption come from the door, someone is knocking with force.

‘’Siggy get out of there! Ammy want to speak to you!’’

>>18443293

Trying what I can but yeah my long break are no good, I deserve a slap for that.

also sorry for the delay between anwers

>>18443413
Can we tell from the link if it's one of our companions?

>>18443420

It's gotta be. No one else would refer to us as siggy.

>>18443413

"Perhaps some time then, my friend."

stand up to get to the door.

"It appears that my companions have some need of me."

-----

INH, maybe use a twitter? Folks can suscribe and watch it for news on threads.

>>18443420

You waste no time with hesitation, you search your link and find that… both Sylphis and Athena are close, but not close enough to be the person outside the door.

Garret rolls his eyes.

‘’That woman get over familiar way too fast, but I guess it’s simply today going to her head’’

>>18443436

>No one else would refer to us as siggy

Spoke too soon, derp.

Do we recognise the voice?

>>18443455

It does feel familiar, but you can't place it just yet.

"My apologies, it appears I am being called for service." bow, thank for game and open the door (get on the floor, everybody do the dinosaur)

>>18443466

Well Garret obviously recognises the voice.

"Whos that, again?"

>>18443436
"Then I shall say farewell for now. I am sure we'll meet again, perhaps at a less hectic time."

>>18443466

Oh wait... theres only one person it can be.

Tsukiyomi...

Oh its another quest?

I was hoping it was just a story.

In that case fuck this. I'm not gonna support the thing that is destroying /tg/.

"Perhaps some time then, my friend."

You get up and straighten your posture, making sure to stand tall and proud, being summoned by the Queen is serious business even if she’s… who she is.

Still you turn to your companion who looks bored, if not disinterested.

‘’Know who’s beyond the door?’’

You became quite familiar with him now that you think about it.

‘’Yuria’’

You mask your frown, why would that spider-woman call you by your nickname? Or even call the Queen like that? She seemed to be on the really serious type.’’

You open the door and there she is, two meter tall, arms crossed under her chest, dark kimono of black and blue, creamy skin and hairs of feel black, her face was visibly flushed has some of the entourage glanced at her, however the vertical eyes of the monster dart directly on Garret who hold his hands in the air in a fake manner of interest

‘’Stay silent on this, Garret’’

‘’I’m not a blabbermouth’’ he respond, then she force you onward and the door close.

‘’Lady Ame… Ammy ASKED me to call you and her by nickname for today so I could better -relax-’’

She seem incredibly embarrassed and trying her best to save face.

‘’So please, Sir, come with me for she asked for you’’

>>18443551
"How could I deny such a polite request? I appreciate you using my nickname. The relaxed style suits you, Yuria."

There's really no reason for us not to go. Follow her.

>>18443551

Smile slightly, "Then we had best not keep her waiting. Lead the way then...

Yuyu."

>>18443575
Second. We can tease her later.

>>18442707
This, but use >>18443587 Yuyu

Nah, don't call her Yuyu. Yet.
As >>18443575 said.

"How could I deny such a polite request?’’

You nod at the spider, and mask your smile.

‘’Please, lead the way, for I am unfamiliar with the area’’

You catch her sigh, seem like she’s satisfied.

‘’…Yuyu’’

Her blank stare give you a stifle laugh, her cheek redden quite a bit, but then she turn around with a ‘’Humph!’’. Her various legs click on the ground as her pace is a bit difficult to match, somewhere between jogging and walking.

‘’Just, no.’’

Her voice is small, and embarrassed, while you accompany her she stay silent, if not flustered, but once you enter an empty area, she let out a growl.

‘’I’ll be getting you for this…’’

--

The throne room isn’t a mess, but it’s vacant beside the Queen herself who hair seems a bit sticky while her clothes stills have residues of that spider web net she was caught in ten minutes ago, Yuria was the first one to enter and she proclaim in a voice matching your own eloquence

‘’My queen Ame-‘’


The Inari interrupt

‘’Ammy’’

‘’….Ammy, here is the man you requested’’

>>18443705
Bow and thank Yuyu for escorting you, then snuggle Ammy's tails and enquire upon reason of request. Specifically ask if another fireworks display is coming.

>>18443705

Thank Yuria for getting us here. Make sure to mention her new nickname infront of the queen and it will stick, for quite some time.

>>18443705
"Thank you for accompanying me, Yuyu. I look forward to your getting me back - I'm sure it will be delightful, but hopefully not as explosive as the queen's pranks."

Bow.

"I am at your service, as always, My Lady. How may I assist?"

>>18443790
Second.

>>18443790
We're so going to suffer.
Do it.

‘’Siggy’’

The queen say, leaving the spider in total silence

‘’His name is Siggy, say it, pretty please?’’

‘’I-I…There are things to be done, aah!’’

Between exasperation and embarrassment, Yuria flee in a resonating concert of clicking while her solid legs transport her out of the room.

Not before you add, with a clear, strong, resonating voice.

"Thank you for accompanying me, Yuyu. I look forward to your getting me back - I'm sure it will be delightful, but hopefully not as explosive as the queen's pranks."

It was by pure chance that you avoided the sticky spider web thrown at you. You hear a lot of whistling as she escapes.

You see the queen smile while looking at you approvingly, her tails fidgeting like a flower in a strong wind.

Still she did ask for your presence, so you advance toward her and kneel after coming to her level, the regal throne decorations are unique, various emblems and drawings seem to retell story of ages pasts.

"I am at your service, as always, My Lady. How may I assist?"

A cough make you look up, Ame-no-Uzume wipe some black liquid coming out of her mouth.

‘’Siegfried, the first of Spring is a day of celebration, however there are two rituals that must be made rather discreetly but I do not wish to force you in any way, if your intention is to spend time enjoying the day with people you care for, then you have my blessing. It is just as important as what I am asking, after all.’’

>field too long

>>18443827

Totally worth it.

You stand up, however you can’t help but spy something a bit strange; sitting on the throne is a sword in its scabbard and that weapon feel familiar.

‘’Do know, the reason why I had you travel here is not for this service I require, I simply think you are the man… adequate enough for the job, or to be blunt, interesting enough’’

A new cough come from her, following more of that tar, its seems much worse than earlier.

>>18443869
>its seems much worse than earlier.
>dat cute pic
Why are you doing this to me? You're tearing me apart INH!

"As you are giving me a choice, it would only be better if I knew the other option, my lady. If I may enquire upon it, you shall have my answer. If I may not, then I will do as you ask."

>>18443869
"How could I run off to enjoy the day when there is a person in need, standing in front of me? To ignore this would be the height of foolishness. Not to mention, there is a furious spider-woman out there plotting her revenge."

"Tell me of these rituals. Do they have anything to do with your present... ailment?"

>>18443890
>>18443869
I think I missed a thread or two, is there a reason why we can't absorp the corruption like we did in the earlier parts?

>>18443869

"Then my lady, you had only ask. If it is within my power, I will endeavour to fulfil it."

I wonder if she'll allow us to remove the taint for her.

>>18443916
Either she didn't let us or it's too far gone for us to help.
Either or.

>>18443916

One does not just lay hands on a queen without permission.

>>18443916

Actually, for all you know, you can do that.

You just haven't asked yet

>>18443933
We're leading up to that.

You feel a slight burst of emotions, its… impossible to really identify it, but right now as you look at this coughing woman, you can’t help but feel something, yes, something. Too difficult to really pinpoint.

"How could I run off to enjoy the day when there is a person in need, standing in front of me? To ignore this would be the height of foolishness.’’

Ame-no-Uzume mouth hang open for a brief second as she blink.

‘’I…see’’

She adds in a quiet voice.

"Tell me of these rituals. Do they have anything to do with your present... ailment?"

You are completely serious, for the first time you attack her various coughing and, what you guess, corruption from the front.

However the queen expression darken slightly as she look in your eyes

‘’My health is not of your concern, Siegfried. I would never ask for you to help me in such a selfish way.’’

Selfish? She’s a queen! Her health IS important for her people.

‘’My mind is a bit clouded; there is only one ritual that you need performing. Every year we send an offering to someone I would hope could become… a guardian, Siegfried, are you familiar with angels?’’

>>18444014
"'nay, I am not. And while you are a queen the matter of your health is not selfish for it is for the good of your people. Now tell me of this ritual."

>>18444014
"No, I am not. I must say, before we continue, that whether you consider it my concern or not, a selfish thing to request or not, I am more than willing to use my talent, ill-understood as it is, to help you. If you will allow it, that is."

>>18444014

"Your Majesty, your body is not just your own.

As the leader of all those gathered here, you are responsible for leading and ensuring their wellbeing. In this, ignoring your health, justifying it as selfishness, is the height of folly and self-delusion.

The Queen must be in good health to properly serve and protect her people. Any other alternative is unacceptable.

Please. Let me help."

>>18444043

I like this one the most. Simple and to the point while respecting her wishes.

‘’ I am not.’’

Angels, you remember reading about them somewhat back in class, being that served the one known as ‘’Father’’. Where monster wield corruption, they wield the antithesis of light, although they do not seem to concern themselves much with mortals beside the church, however from some account it would seem many, many order exist between the angel population and hostilities tend to be constant. They have their own mess to deal with it seems.

"Your Majesty, your body is not just your own.’’

She was slow to answer, you took the initiative, Ame-No-Uzume close her eyes and stay silent, and perhaps she heard that lecture before?

‘’As the leader of all those gathered here, you are responsib-‘’
She interrupt your speech by placing two fingers on your lisp, her eyes, her whole expression, seem warm, ready to make your worries disappear.

‘’I know, Siegfried, I am taking actions to make certain I am fit to lead, the Queen is to lead and look to her people best interest, I must be at my best so I can compete with others groups looking to help they’re people, I hope… there exist a way to satisfy everyone.’’

So she says, another cough, another drop of black…

‘’Let me help’’

She look downcast, her white tails stop moving as her head move from side to side.

‘’I wish… that you do so in another way’’

There is a brief silence.

Are you convinced? Do you wish to continue on her first request or try to suck up this corruption plaguing her?

>>18444165

Does taking in her corruption make us unable to do anything for awhile?

In any case we need clarification on what she originally wanted us to do.

>>18444181

So far you've always managed to stay level headed when you consumed corruptions, you've also had some predatorial feelings when you crossed path with some.

Yet right now, this feeling of ``hunger`` is absent, even if the queen is clearly corrupted.

>>18444165
"I will honor that wish, but please keep my ability in mind. I will gladly aid you if you consent to it."

>>18444193
I say go along with her request for now.

>Good to see this quest is up and running again.

>>18444193

Then a compromise. We'll complete her request but once we return we'll remove her corruption.

>>18444215
Alright, I think that's an acceptable compromise.

"I will honor that wish, but please keep my ability in mind.’’

The Queen nod, however you add, with authority and a brief, desperate feeling

‘’But once I have returned, I shall put my talents to actions and make certain you are free from this burden of corruption, my Queen, that is my price’’

Ame-no-Uzume smile, but it feels wounded and she does not say, nor do, anything.

‘’The shrine of the angel I wish you too meet is located in a… unusual area, I would like you to place this offering on the altar and, if she is not summoned… then so be it’’

One of her tail was masking a small, silver statue of a knight holding a shield and a sword, kneeling in prayer.

Then the Queen takes the sword resting on the throne and now you remember, that handle, that scabbard…

Its Athena sword.

‘’Are you ready to start, Siegfried?’’

>>18444285

...

Mindlink

Wheres Athena?

>>18444285
"Must I do this alone?"

>>18444301

Yeah. I feel the same paranoia.

>>18444301

You immediately search you link to try to find Athena, however its impossible to really know for certain other than the vague feeling of ''she's close''

So is Sylphis as well.

>>18444349

...

Contact them through the mindlink.

Something to the effect of where are you, doesn't really matter what.

I expect our face is white right now.

>>18444319

The Queen nod, her eyes and tone serious.

''Nobody but you, and only you, must venture to meet her.''

>>18444364

That's not possible, as far as I know.

We are as ready as we'll ever be.

>>18444377

Hmm. If not, then reach for the sword and hold it.

We'll know once we have it in our grasp.

>>18444375
"I understand. I would like to say farewell to my companions before I go, if that is possible."

>>18444397
We'll know what?

>>18444507

If we're holding on to the sword and the feeling changes from 'they're close' to 'siggy is touching them'.

That would be the worst case scenario.

‘’I am’’

You prefer not to ask, Ame said it herself, and she considered Sylphis and Athena to be her precious retainers, so the reason why she’s holding the sword belonging to your knightly companion must be a good one.

‘’Will it be a long journey? If so, I wish to say goodbye to those I am linked with’’

The queen smile and shake her head

‘’The angel Hadraniel reside in this sword, never has she harmed a pilgrim, the time require… might not be too long.’’

Speaking on conjectures, however that name, Hadraniel… its familiar, you’ve heard it before, but where? When?

‘’Siegfried, please, hold this’’

She hand you the small statue and you immediately feel the magic inside, the Queen is holding the sword, without its scabbard, the pale blade never shining, looking a boring gray.
And then the queen starts chanting.

Her voices is nothing short of magnificent, it is impossible to understand the words for it seem to be a tongue you do not know, magic swirl around the Inari and soon, you see the world around you fading in white, the small statue in your hands seem to be pulsing, warm, instrument seem to be joining the queen voice but, soon, far too soon, everything is cut and the white walls around you dissipate.

It would seem you are on a mountain and, up above, lies what look like a church, the whole area seem alive with a sky of blue, some birds, and the sound of the winds.

And the statue in your hands crumbles into dust.

>>18444532

Something's awry

Ah, bluh. What? Weren't we supposed to place it on the altar? Oh well. Time to get up there.

>>18444532
Can we feel our companions?

Move toward the church.

>>18444532
Check companions, look around.

At first there is confusion.

What exactly just happened here? You trust the queen, that much is obvious, you did nothing but wait while she sang and simply acknowledge her need of your help, but then, suddenly, here you are. As if you were teleported in another area, just what?

Disorienting doesn’t even begin to describe it, what in heaven’s name? Ame said that the angel reside in the sword…

A sword holding a world like this? It feels organic, the fresh wind on your skin feels good but.

Wait, when you look behind you, a wall of white engulf both the path down and everything you should be able to see on the mountain top, there is no horizon, just white, complete, engulfing everything.

Then you try to find comfort in your soul link, something that gave you strength on your journey and it’s gone, just like that.
There is absolutely nothing. Before, you could feel the simple warmth’s of emotions and living being, there is absolutely nothing and you are utterly, perhaps helplessly, alone in body and mind.

What…

Frustration, however you cast aside the remnant of the statue and start the climb toward the church, each time you walk forward, the wall of white engulf the path you’ve tread upon.

You feel an unusual hunger as you reach the church, the heavy door closed but you open it and, what could best be described as a boring area greets you. Row of large seat facing a large altar with the empty bookcase for the holy scriptum.

There is absolutely nobody, as you turn back, the wall of white has engulfed the outside world, now, and there exist only the church.

And then, a small, pure white fog creeps in.

And your hungers, something that have been sleeping inside you awaken with force.

Roll 1d6, gentlemen.

>>18444723

Forgot mah trip

rolled 2 = 2

>>18444723

Dropped your trip?

rolled 3 = 3

Fight the fog? I dunno.

rolled 2 = 2

>>18444723

rolled 5 = 5

>>18444723
Welp, apparently we're visiting the Angel. In the sword.
I've always wanted to visit a sword.

>>18444741

Go to a museum.

rolled 3 = 3

>>18444723
>1d6

Oh boy, here we go....

>>18444723

>Link gone...

Thats...

thats not good.

Fuck.

If they're not there when we get back I don't think siggy can stand staying in Zipangu.

>>18444762
We're inside a sword. The link evidently can't reach us here. It doesn't mean our companions are gone.

It’s overwhelming, instincts take over and the white, pure fog, enter your body, and then.

You consume, the pure, holiest of lights, the entire fabric of this world is being eaten by the vacuum of your unending hunger as you struggle to piece your will back together, there is no soul link to grasp, fogs, colors, enter your mouths in particle as the white wall encroach, step by step, yet you eat, you eat..

But then something grab you attention, an image, fleeting, incredibly, appearing in the blink of an eye, you see wings? The Sun? It awakens a feeling of desperation, something… sad? Your heart pump, however the surprise of such an image is enough for you to calm your raging hunger and beat it as you sweat, going against your nature, you feel a strong nausea and end up staining the floor, the incredibly raging beast of your hunger finally beaten back.

‘’aa...’’

You try to voice something but your throat is hoarse.

However, floating in the air, is a feather of pure white that, slowly, drift toward the ground where your previous sickness is now gone.

‘’I am aware of the existence of Null in the world, but a Consumer is something I have no knowledge of’’

>field too long

Her voice is stern, cold and manages to send a chill up your spine; however you, yourself, are proud, thus you get up.

There is an angel, sitting on the large altar, clad in armor of light, blue metals, elegant battle dress, majestic wings of pure white filtering the light of the sun as they spread in all they’re glory, glowing halo above her head, hairs of gold and eyes of azures, looking pure, holy.

She is, without a doubt, incredibly beautiful.

‘’I have been sleeping for too long, you shall tell me, now. Identify yourself, I will commend your effort in stopping this hunger of yours, but what is the reason of your presence in my domain?’’

Looking at her, your heart can't help but pump faster, is it fear you feel?

>>18444926
"My name is Siegfried Shieffer. I have been entrusted with a mission by Queen Ame-no-Uzume, to deliver a statue to your altar. Unfortunately, it was rendered to dust upon my entry."

>>18444926

Bow and greet the angel

"My name, my lady, is Siegfried Shieffer.

I have come on behalf of the Queen of Zipangu, Ame-no-Uzume.

I have been tasked to present to you, an offering. That you may be a guardian to its people."

>consumer
>we eat magic? Or just corruption/purity?

>>18444953
This works.

You steel yourself, the memory of the last seconds were quite painful as that… hunger of yours almost took over.
It doesn’t affect only corruption then? And why was it so incredibly hard to beat it back? Never before when you had to use it was it this incredibly strong and painful to control.

"My name, my lady, is Siegfried Shieffer.’’

Candor recovered, you give the angel a formal bow and look at her sitting form atop, she stand straight, without moving, staring right at you.

‘’Shieffer…Siegfried’’

She repeat, her voice holding nothing of the previous ice.
‘’I have been entrusted with a mission by Queen Ame-no-Uzume, to deliver a statue to your altar.’’

Her eyes snap back on you, then she nod as, clearly, your hands are empty.

‘’I do not fault you, nor the queen, for every pilgrim that came to me where deaf to magic, it is only natural for the artifact to crumble if you are someone with the gift, if you fear I have been insulted by the lack of offering, then take comfort, I was not’’

Her tone soften, she seem understanding at the very least.

‘’However, the real objective of my coming was to ask of you to be a guardian to the people of Zipangu, or at the very least, to the clan the queen that sent me lead, for that is what she asked of me’’

Silence, the angel eyes close as, you guess, she seem to be pondering.

‘’I do not look over people, be they humans are monsters.’’

You control your frustration, it doesn’t seem like she’s done.

‘’Do you know who I am, Siegfried Shieffer?’’

>>18445137
"I found your name faintly familiar, but no, I do not."

>>18445137

"I must confess that I do not. Would you care to enlighten me, my lady?"

"I know, but do not remember, my lady."

"I found your name faintly familiar, but no, I do not."

Her face stay in ice, she’s looking at you with incredible authority but you never falter and return her gaze, defiant, but respectful.

‘’Then I shall confess, Siegfried, I have also found your name faintly familiar, however I shall… fulfill your curiosity’’
Her legs cross as, suddenly, you see a spear on her lap.

‘’My name is Hadraniel, past member of the Aegis order.’’

Hadraniel, that name… you feel your heart thump a bit but, again, you look at her with just as much control as she as.

‘’I was one of the first Heroes, I have been absent of the way of the world for a long, long time, but tell me, Siegfried, is the tale of the Thirteen Heroes known to you?’’

Ah, yes, you remember. The subject of the Thirteen Heroes was glanced over in a lazy afternoon class, but the name Hadraniel, never was it mentioned.

Then why does she feel like someone you’ve met? Why does she feel familiar?

‘’I…see, it is an honor, the Heroes of past vanquished the previous Demon Lord’’

You kneel to the angel

‘’Rise, Siegfried, I am no longer who I was an my actions deserves no praise’’

Thus you do as you are told, looking solemn at the lady whose weapon disappears, and it would seem you’ve gained a small amount of trust.

‘’I barely have the power to protect one person, let alone a people, how can I do something I cannot?’’

>>18445333

"I...I do not understand. If you are one of the first heroes, how can it be that you are helpless?"

>>18445333
"Perhaps you do not need to act alone. I myself have seen many times what several can accomplish where one person would fail. I am sure your experience would be quite invaluable, even if your power has waned."

"I am afraid I am quite ill-informed here, as I was sent only to place an offering upon your altar. How is it that your sword came to be in the care of Queen Ame-no-Uzume?"

‘’Perhaps you do not need to act alone.’’

You start, looking at the holy being, for some reason you feel a strange warmth, both in your chest and your voice, could it be the simple effect of her presence? Angels aren’t exactly monsters, are they?

‘’I myself have seen many times what several can accomplish where one person would fail. I am sure your experience would be quite invaluable, even if your power has waned."

Several people can, indeed, do… Ah yes, now you remember, back when you took the lead of the Shieffer family after the betrayal of Fertinand, monsters acting in the south and, things nobody should be proud of.

Certainly not you, Butcher of monsters.

‘’I appreciate your faith in me’’

The angel eyes avoid yours

‘’I am crippled, Siegfried, my voice cannot sing, my magic cannot act and my presence in the world is weak, but most of all, my memories are muddled, almost forgotten. Do you know of the curse of the long lived?’’

As you make your ignorance clear, she nods at you.

‘’Those of long life are cursed to forget, I have decided to reside here so I could commune with Mother Earth and try to restore my lost abilities, but most of all to meditate and make certain I do not forget, but it was for naught.’’

You stay silent as the angel may seem downcast, but she stand tall and proud. You decide to change the subject.

"I am afraid I am quite ill-informed here, as I was sent only to place an offering upon your altar. How is it that your sword came to be in the care of Queen Ame-no-Uzume?"

Hadraniel smile softly, her wings make a small movement and winds drift in the church.

‘’I made certain my shrine would be in good hands before I decided to retreat, her mother handed it to her.’’

However her face return serious.

‘’As you see, Siegfried, I lack both my powers and my experience, would you still want the help of someone lacking?’’

>>18445570
"Yes, if only to help them instead."

>>18445570

"My lady, even those can no longer fight are not, 'useless'.

You are one of the first heros. Your presence alone will inspire many to double their efforts.

Despite you saying you have lost your powers and experience; the fact that you still counsel against requesting your aid shows your wisdom and foresight.

My lady, Hadraniel, we would honoured, if you would but afford us your presence with us and give us your counsel."

>>18445570
"Angel. Hadraniel. I am not long-lived. I am not one of the Thirteen Heroes. I am not a Demon Lord. I am only human, and I fail as one. My memory is imperfect at the best of times, and much of it has been taken from me. I began the journey that brought me here not knowing who I am. I began it powerless, at the mercy of any who happened by. I am very lucky, perhaps blessed, to have met the two that now travel with me, when there was nothing standing between me and death."

"I have no right, nor desire, to deny you what I myself was freely given. A chance - To live, to breathe, to sleep and dream, to experience again. I can only think of these things in human terms, for I am no more than such. But you are an angel. Your power is ancient. Your hands have touched a world I have never known. Though you may think yourself lesser now, though you see yourself to be weaker, cursed to lose even your past, I do not."

"Even in your silence you are greater than I. Help me, Hadraniel, and gain new memories. Do not resign yourself to the end. Live."

>>18445722

Damn son.

I'll be taking a shower break, so expect about 20 minutes before I can step back in the writting chair again.

>>18445769

>Waiting warmly, right here

"Angel. Hadraniel.’’

Your tone is solid, the holy being sit atop the highest monument of a lonely, deserted, old and ruined church, looking solemn, closed.

Useless.

‘’I am not long-lived. I am not one of the Thirteen Heroes. I am not a Demon Lord. I am only human, and I fail as one.’’
Such a heavy weight on the shoulders of the lady at your front, she look strong, beautiful, shining, true, even with severely depleted potential, she stand and has yet to fail. Hadraniel is looking as solemn as ever, her eyes on you, you feel a strange warmth rising within you as the sense of familiarity, somehow, increase for a very brief moment, her mouth open but no words come out.

Words fail her? The woman sitting there spent more than 400 years in almost complete isolation beside uneven pilgrims, was that how people were in the past?

‘’My memory is imperfect at the best of times, and much of it has been taken from me. I began the journey that brought me here not knowing who I am’’

Two hands, both scaled, extended to you when your time of greatest needs arrived, alone, lost, on the border of losing what little identity you had left. Monsters gave you the mean to stand and regain resolve, but most of all they allowed you to stay human, even if the price was losing you memories, you’ve learned that does not erase who you are, you very nature stay true.

So you understand her plight, and in a way, her feelings of uselessness.

You almost killed yourself with your own magic after all, you may not have been like her, but self-destructive was a title your amnesiac self, ignorant of his own talent, truly deserved.

>field too long

‘’ I began it powerless, at the mercy of any who happened by. I am very lucky, perhaps blessed, to have met the two that now travel with me, when there was nothing standing between me and death."

The reason of they’re coming was the Queen Ame-no-Uzume, but they became true people of valor, people you’re proud to share a link with.

The angel eyes are closed, one of her hand resting on her chest plate. But her mouth is smiling

‘’You are gifted in words… I am unable to read you, Siegfried, in my domain no human’s emotions and intent were ever masked to me, but I cannot enter your mind, but I want, no I believe your words…’’

A small, content smile. It feels like you are almost remembering something.

But this isn’t over, for words are not failing you.

"I have no right, nor desire, to deny you what I myself was freely given. A chance - To live, to breathe, to sleep and dream, to experience again.’’

Her eyes open, a frown on her face, but for the very first time, she look away from your gaze.

Bulleye. She retreated in this shrine, this artificial, lonely world for so long that, right now, the person sitting there, the woman of battle, guardian angel, one that fought for humanity as a Hero, forgot how to live, and is almost forgetting herself.

‘’I… tried to share…Mother Earth dreams…’’

The angel tone in uncertain, her hands and finger cross as she take a prayer gestures, her wings still standing tall and proud.

‘’ I can only think of these things in human terms, for I am no more than such. ‘’

Human are humans, monsters are monsters, and angels…
‘’ But you are an angel. Your power is ancient. Your hands have touched a world I have never known.’’

How was the world back then, when monsters were entirely different? Perhaps she too, forgot, but her very being is ancient and so, very very precious. The past should never be discarded, it is to be kept, treasured, mistakes to not redo, success to learn from and this individual is someone standing on both the ancient and the modern world.

‘’I am no higher being or guide of humans, but I cannot pass a judgment while ignoring most of my deeds’’

Her reply is curt, but there is spirit.

‘’Though you may think yourself lesser now, though you see yourself to be weaker, cursed to lose even your past, I do not."

Her eyes opens, you see a resolve that wasn’t there, before there was simply cold judgment, now she seems alive.

‘’I…’’

Again, words fail her.

>and one last

"Even in your silence you are greater than I. Help me, Hadraniel, and gain new memories. Do not resign yourself to the end. Live."

You see one of her hand ball in a fist, one of her other hand rub a close eye, then, slowly, the angel drift off the altar and touch the ground, falling in a controlled speed as her wings folds, then spread in a majestic view and wind.

‘’I cannot see your fate, Siegfried, and you are… cruel, your words started to give me hope, and curiosity. The only way I remember how to have… a physical manifestation, a short one, outside, would be to create a link, a soul link.’’

She mark a pause

‘’And the only way to recover some of my memories would be to relive them. But I will –not- place such a burden on you, however, I shall not accept another man for a link. I may be unable to protect a people, but I am capable of protecting one person. And in no way am I any greater than you, one origin or past does not make one valor.’’

>>18446416

another soul link, ehhh well if it helps her then why not, I'm sure Athena and Slyphis will under stand.

>>18446416

(Nothing else after this? Still looks pretty open ended. Looks like she wants a suggestion for someone to have a soullink with, if im not mistaken.)

>>18446483
I don't think she's willing to link with us.

>>18446416

What if we suggest Queen Ammy?

>>18446416
"The two who saved me from death did so by linking with me. They purged me of my corruption. They rescued me. I know the feeling of the bond."

"I will gladly enter such a link with you. It is not a burden, but a privilege, to share this with another, angel or otherwise."

"Will you let me help you?"

>>18446500
Worth a try

>>18446416
>And the only way to recover some of my memories would be to relive them. But I will –not- place such a burden on you, however, I shall not accept another man for a link

Does this mean that she's asking for our consent to create a link with us?

>>18446499

Ah crap sorry I worded it very wrong

When she said she will not accept another man for a link, she pretty much said anyoen other than Siegfried

>>18446499
Scratch that, I misinterpreted the post.

>>18446546
From what I can tell, she is only willing to accept us. And won't burden us with recovering her memories.

>>18446416
>>18446500
>>18446526

"Then I would ask that you gift the Queen, Ame-no-Uzume, with your protection and counsel.

She who presides over those who live in Zipangu, by keeping her safe, many orders will live in peace and safety."

>>18446524
I'd go with that. It sounds like she wants to help, but isn't willing to suggest linking. As I see it she's leaving it up to our initiative.

>>18446524
Agreeing with this.

"The two who saved me from death did so by linking with me. They purged me of my corruption. They rescued me. I know the feeling of the bond."

Hadraniel look stunned for a bit, she looking at you with a sudden suspicious and almost disapproving look before melting into an amused smile.

‘’It was apparently needed then, but still, a link with two; you are a greedy man, Siegfried.’’

Her wings flaps as she suddenly giggle to herself, the action is quite something, for before she was cold and mighty, now she seems nervous.

"I will gladly enter such a link with you. It is not a burden, but a privilege, to share this with another, angel or otherwise."

The angel looks away for an instant as she cross her hands, biting her lower lisp as she seemed to be the victim of indecision, but then she heave a small sigh, her armored self approaching, her wings masking the brilliant sun filtering through the dust of the large front window.

‘’ I know how, but I have never done such a thing, of that I am certain, however you somehow feel… familiar, if I can say, I feel confident, at the very least, I guess this may be a privilege for us both’’

Her hands touch botch of your cheek, her armored head approach and both your foreheads now touch each other’s, her blue eyes, white skins, yellow hairs and…her scent, its. Incredibly unique, her simple proximity make you feel like you’re losing yourself, your heart thump, and the feeling of familiarity increase.

‘’You are consent, I have lost my singing voice but thankfully, link do not require… magic’’

It’s an incredibly strange, but brief feeling. You feel your very being invaded, your soul startled by the intrusion, but soon it melt away and, as you look in her eyes and she in yours, the previous alarm is completely gone and you feel a strange, fulfilling, warmth. Her close proximity allows you to feel her emotions and, there’s hope, something else that is warm…

And then your vision blank as an image come out of nowhere
.
It’s incredibly brief, it was the angel herself in close proximity but much, much too sudden a flash, she was close to you that is certain and lingering feeling of… of something incredibly strong leave you confused and disoriented as you step back from the angel whose eyes are closed.

Your head hurt a bit as your rub your forehead, somehow, it feels like you’ve seen – and felt – something that is not part of this world.

But the angel looks at you, and gives you a bow.

‘’I saw something, Siegfried, and now know that you are fated to die in 29 days, are you ready to go back? I believe you have more to do while in the care of Ame-no-Uzume.

Can't think of anything else we need to do here

The only thing I can think of is seeing if she knows anything about the queens condition.
Anyone have any thoughts?

>>18446830
"What should I tell her? She sent me here to make contact, to summon you. What will you do, Hadraniel?"

>>18446830

"What did you see? I wonder if I can avoid such a fate."

"What did you see? I wonder if I can avoid such a fate."

You ask in a rather nonchalant way, even if the very possibility of dying next month is lingering just above your head, for now, you don’t care too much. However you feel something close to anger coming from Hadraniel, her eyes are closed as she seem to be pondering.

‘’Feeling another emotion is… I have seen, two things, but I saw your time, so very brief, at the academy. You are a strong man, Siegfried. Fate is no longer absolute, I have decided to have you under my care, as your shield, I shall do everything in my power to make certain you live long to accomplish yourself.’’

It would seem she decided on something rather important.
However you have other question and, wait a minute suddenly the angel is right next to you.

"What should I tell her? She sent me here to make contact, to summon you.’’

She’s a bit taller than you, her expression is solemn, her feelings seem to be absent, serious, if not a bit indifferent.

‘’You have, Siegfried, I have decided to make a contract with you; the link you accepted is proof of it. The Hero Hadraniel will be your ally. ‘’

‘’ What will you do, Hadraniel?"

She smile and tilt her head a bit, her armor making a brief clicking.

‘’You are to keep my sword, an angel is not to manifest herself for too long because that will attract an unbelievable amount of attention, but I can and –will- help you the best I can, if I need to manifest fully… then so be it, but that might be hard, at least even in my crippled state, I can fight to my best physicals capabilities.’’

She looks serene, at this moment.

‘’I think our link is… stronger than average, hail, and I shall come.’’

White fills your vision.
But.
She’s standing there in a world of pure white, her robe of crimson betraying her identity, her long, brown hair drifting in the wind as she’s looking at you, hands behind her back, and smiling.
You feel far, far too sluggish to say or do anything, she escapes your grasp and consciousness regains your body.

>I’ll be ending it here gentleman, I’m feeling myself burning out

>>18447166
This was awesome. I feel like we were a lot more eloquent this time around.

Hope to see you again in less than a month, if possible.

>>18447166

Thanks for the session INH.

Have an ETA for the next?

>>18447191

Yeah months stop are my bane, I don't want that either. If I don't write I feel despressed but by feeling depressed I don't want to write, its such a vicious circle.

>>18447197

I'd like to say next week, but my schedule isn't exactly fixed, hwoever the hour I do the quest will always be around 4 or 5 PM est, with Friday and Saturday as priority time. but its would be possible to see my quest tuesday or soemthing, it'll all depend on how prepared I feel.

>>18447268

Can you make a twitter or pastebin notice so we can check in to see if when you're likely to do the quest?

Like updates saying probably on/off.

>>18447290

Hm that might be a good idea, but I don'T really know how pastebin or twitter work

Thread archived

>>18447316

Twitter: Create an account at twitter.com

Post the name of the account here and we can refer to it to see short messages from you.

Say, like Landing Gear's twitter.
https://twitter.com/#!/HappyBrownGuy

>>18447367

Hm I'll think of making one, but for now my head hurt and I don't want to think of anything. Goodnight and godspeed, /tg/