You sit against a tree, quietly re-enchanting the daggers you recovered after last night’s little skirmish.

You hold the image of a dark cloud in your mind, and picture it flowing into the crystal knife in your hand. With some effort the enchantment takes hold, and the last of the clear crystal daggers turns black.

Satisfied with your work, you stow the enchanted knives back inside your cloak. Taking a deep breath, you lean back into the tree and wipe the sweat from your brow. Enchanting has never been easy for you…

You know a few more than the simple Dark Fog that you’ve used. You learned a few offense based enchantments when you were toying with magic, but none of those hold very long and you couldn’t be arsed to master the focusing aspect of it. You use Dark Fog because it uses a simple visualization and it holds for about a week before it starts to fade.

There’s also a completely useless invisibility enchantment that you regret learning, but it sounded like a good idea at the time…

You hear Laura groan as wakens and sits up. Her, Selene and Eleanor all slept in the makeshift shelter that Marcellus threw together using the wilderness survival skills he gained in his previous adventure.

The two of you took turns on watch as you did in the safe house. Laura tried to insist that you let her take a shift, but Marcellus insisted against it. The fact that she’s just lost her parents, along with the fact that someone needs to keep close to Selene was enough to dissuade her.

“Giles... I felt magic, was that you?” Laura asks as she steps quietly out of the shelter, leaving Selene and Eleanor to cuddle. It’s really quite adorable.
“Yes. Sorry, did I wake you?” You ask.
Laura nods. “But it’s not a problem. I should have been awake a while ago.” She says.
“How are you holding up?” You ask.
She sighs. “I’ll live…”

>[ ] Ask her to elaborate

>[ ] Talk about the day’s plans

>[ ] Talk about magic

>[ ] Other

>>39074969
>[ ] Talk about magic
We can probably imagine what she's feeling, might be good to try a new topic

>>39074969
>[ ] Talk about the day’s plans

>>39074969
>[ ] Ask her to elaborate
>[ ] Talk about the day’s plans

>>39074969
>[ ] Talk about the day’s plans
this is the most important thing right now

>>39074969
>[ ] Ask her to elaborate
>[ ] Talk about the day’s plans

>writing

Woo! I've missed you QM, thanks for being back

“Any ideas on what we should do today?” You ask.
Laura lets out a tired sigh as she sits down next to you. “I honestly don’t know… I’m still surprised that we even made it this far.” She says. “you have any ideas?”

“We need supplies. Big time.” You say. You’ve still got some trail rations left in your cloak, but there isn’t much left after last night, and what’s there is never going to get you to Harth. In fact, between the 5 of you it probably won’t last the day.

“Right… there’s a small fortified town called Catisse not too far from here, if I’m right about where we are. News about what’s going on in Analask will have reached there by now though, and they’ll definitely be on the lookout for us.” She says.

“So we keep our disguises on and remember our cover stories for the time being. If I really need to, I can go in alone and get what we need.” You say.

Laura looks pained, like there’s something about that she doesn’t like. “I’d really rather not send you in alone…” She says.

“Why not?” You ask.
The look worsens, and she turns to face you. “Please don’t take this the wrong way, but…”
“You don’t trust me.” You finish her sentence.
Laura sighs, and waits a second before speaking. “No… I don’t…” She says.

>[ ] Good. You have every reason not to

>[ ] So send someone with me

>[ ] That hurts

>[ ] Other

>>39075694
>[ ] Good. You have every reason not to

>>39075694
>[ ] Other, "I understand that, it's only fair. You don't need to worry about offending me with that. Maybe it's time I start to earn it back though...

>>39075694
>[ ] Good. You have every reason not to

>>39075694
>[ ] Good. You have every reason not to

>>39075694
> Good. You have every reason not to
> So send someone with me (Marcellus)

An unknown party kills your parents and sends you fleeing from your home, damn right you shouldn't trust the mysterious guy with a whole bunch of secrets.

It makes sense that Marcellus comes with us on a trip into the village, he's the only one Laura would think we wouldn't be able to fool.

>>39075694
>[ ] Good. You have every reason not to
>[ ] So send someone with me

Marcellus is probably the best candidate.

>>39075694
>[ ] Good. You have every reason not to

>writing

“Good. You have every reason not to. What can you honestly say that you know about me?” You say.

“Well… you grew up with Melissa… and you… Umm… I guess you aren’t really a roaming servant…” She sighs, and laughs. “But Melissa seemed to think highly of you…” She says.

“Melissa hasn’t seen me in 5 years Laura.” You say.
“Then nothing. I know absolutely nothing about you.” She says.
You place a hand on her shoulder. “For what it’s worth, if you absolutely must trust me I’ll do my best not to betray you.” You say.

“When you put it that way… we don’t have much of a choice right now.” She says, hugging her knees into her chest so she can rest her head on them.
“A little short on friends?” You ask.
She nods.
“Who knows? Some of the Laustian lords are bound to take your word over Roderick’s, and I doubt Honoue would turn you away after your dispatched Belgir, and Harth will be wanting their prince back.” You say.

“That’s a lot of maybes and even more distance…” She says.
“All the more reason why we should stock up. If you don’t feel comfortable sending me into town alone, then send someone with me.” You say.

She thinks about that. “I can’t send Marcellus, if both of you go we’re left with no fighters back here… We can’t all go, it’d draw too much attention…”
Laura lays her forehead on her knees and groans.

>[ ] We can all go, we’ll just have to be careful

>[ ] Why not accompany me yourself?

>[ ] Send Eleanor with me

>[ ] If I must go alone, I promise to behave

>>39076273
>[ ] Why not accompany me yourself?

>>39076273
>[ ] Why not accompany me yourself?

>>39076273
>If I must go alone, I promise to behave

Eleanor doesn't really have the temperament for remaining incognito for a long period of time and besides if we weren't trustworthy she'd be incredibly easy to deceive.

Taking Laura in is just asking for her to be recognized, disguises only hold up for so long, especially when the person in disguise is the famous dragon slaying princess of the realm.

>>39076273
>[ ] If I must go alone, I promise to behave

>>39076273
>[ ] If I must go alone, I promise to behave
but
>[ ] Why not accompany me yourself?

>>39076273
>>[ ] Why not accompany me yourself?

>>39076273
>>[ ] Why not accompany me yourself?

>>39076273
>[ ] If I must go alone, I promise to behave

>writing

“Why not accompany me yourself then?” You ask.
“And leave Selene here?” She asks, looking back up at you.
“-with Marcellus and Eleanor, where she’ll be perfectly safe. Honestly the only other option would be to send Eleanor with me if I can’t go alone and you won’t risk sending the whole group.” You say.

Laura hums as she thinks about it. “I guess there really is no other choice…” She says. “Marcellus is not going to like this”
“He can not like it all he wants, it won’t change the fact that it’s necessary.” You say.

“What’s our cover?” She asks.
“I dunno, something simple like travelling buddies or eloping lovers. I’ll decide on that later.” You say.
“What will we be getting?” She asks.
“Rations to last us until the next time we can refill, bedrolls and blankets, clothing more suited to the outdoors, that kinda stuff.” You say.

It looks like it’ll be a while yet until everyone wakes up. With that in mind, you’ll kill time by-

>[ ] –talking about magic

>[ ] –talking about travelling

>[ ] –talking about (other)

>>39076912
>[ ] –talking about travelling

>>39076912
>[ ] –talking about travelling

>>39076912
>[ ] –talking about magic

>>39076912
>talking about magic

>>39076912
>>[ ] –talking about magic

>>39076912
>>[ ] –talking about magic
>>[ ] –talking about travelling

>writing

“I’m surprised that my enchanting woke you up earlier. Are you really that attuned?” You ask.
Laura smiles and nods. “I’ve been practicing since I was only a little older than Selene is now.”

“How old are you anyway?” You ask.
“I turned 19 while I was on the road to Honoue.” She says.
“So over a decade… Damn.” You say.
“What about you? Where did you learn something like Dark Fog?” She asks.
“I learned it partially out of interest and partially out of need. Smoke bombs sometimes become a necessity when you’re a… politician… and I got tired of having to constantly buy more.” You say.

“Do you know any other enchantments?” She asks.
“Yes, but Dark Fog is the only one that I use with any regularity. Mostly because it lasts a while and I usually can’t be arsed to keep up the other enchantments.” You say.
“You seem to have trouble with the focusing aspect.” She says.
“What makes you say that?” You ask
“You were sweating.” She says.
“Oh… well yeah, I do still have some trouble with the focusing.” You say.
Laura smiles. “If you want, I could show you a few tricks.” She says.

>[ ] That would be nice.

>[ ] No thanks

>>39077389
>[ ] That would be nice.

>>39077389
>>[ ] That would be nice.

>>39077389
>[ ] That would be nice.
We'll be able to do some complicated ones with less sweat!

>>39077389
>>[ ] That would be nice.

>>39077432
>Not wanting to get sweaty with Laura

>>39077389
>[ ] That would be nice.

can't think of any reason to refuse.

>writing

File: Breathing.jpg (30 KB, 500x418)

30 KB JPG

>>39077448

“That would be nice.” You say. Though you do notice that she isn’t heeding your warning about trust…

Laura claps her hands together and pulls out a crystal arrow. “Here, try enchanting this with something you’re less familiar with” She says.
“Okay.” You take the arrow and try to focus. Ember Spree is something simple, but you never got the hang of it.

You hold the image of a roaring fire in your head. As the fire crackles and burns, you imagine the sparks flowing upward and into the arrow in your hand.

“You’re forcing it.” Laura says.
Your concentration broken, you open your eyes. “Of course I am. That’s how you do it.”
Laura looks disappointed. “No it isn’t. Here, let me show you.” She says, taking the arrow from your hand.

Holding the arrow in both hands, she takes a deep breath. As she closes her eyes, she lets it out. Laura looks serene, her eyes are closed gently and her smile is peaceful. You think you like this look on her, it definitely suits her well.

After just a few seconds, the arrow begins to glow orange.

“There. Ember Spree is what you were trying to do, right?” She says, pulling out another arrow and handing it to you.
“Well, yeah. How did you do that so quickly?” You ask.
“Like I said, you’re forcing it. The image in your mind needs to be more natural. Don’t force the sparks to flow into the arrow, let the arrow be the only place they could possibly go. Try it again.” She says, watching you expectantly.

Well, here goes…

>Roll 1d20

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>39077819
Lets get sweaty!

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>39077819

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>39077819

>writing

You think you get the idea. Instead of moving the sparks so they flow into the arrow, make it so there is no possible avenue except for the arrow… somehow.

So do you picture the arrow as being really huge? Or imagine some kind of funnel? None of that really seems natural…

“You’re forcing it again.” Laura says, and then you feel a handkerchief wiping your forehead. “Think more naturally.” She says.

That was helpful… really. Naturally…
Hang on. How about this?

“Good job!” Laura says, taking the arrow from you. “Here, try it again.”
She hands you another arrow, and you get to work.

It’s not about making the sparks go to the arrow. It’s not really about thinking naturally either. It’s more like… inevitability. Like it doesn’t matter which way the sparks fly, the arrow will always be their ultimate destination.

You try it again with a few more arrows and different enchantments before Laura is satisfied. She seems to enjoy teaching you about this stuff, or maybe just talking magic in general.

Alas, your lessons are cut short by the sound of the others waking.

>[1/2]

File: Zen.jpg (40 KB, 460x643)

40 KB JPG

>>39077870
Giles; Zen Master

When everyone is awake, you explain your plan to them. As expected Marcellus isn’t a fan, but he agrees with your logic after a while.

Selene isn’t keen on parting with her ‘mommy’ (she seems to be taking her cover seriously though, which is good), but Laura promises to come right back.

Eleanor doesn’t say much. She probably doesn’t think she gets a say in this… which is true, but she could at least have an opinion about it.

When everyone is through with their objectives, you finalize the plan. You and Eleanor will go into the town, buy what you need and hopefully be back before sundown. In the meantime, everyone here will do their best to stay hidden and brainstorm possible routes to Harth.

Preparations finalized, you and Laura make you way off in the direction of the road.

All that’s left to do is decide on a cover.

>[ ] You’re travelling buddies

>[ ] You’re lovers eloping to somewhere

>[ ] You’re merchants/traders looking to buy goods

>[ ] Other

>>39078398
>>[ ] You’re lovers eloping to somewhere

>>39078398
>>[ ] You’re lovers eloping to somewhere
>You and Eleanor
Wait, what?

>>39078438
>Woops, that should say 'you and Laura'

>>39078398
>>[ ] You’re lovers eloping to somewhere

>>39078398
>[ ] You’re travelling buddies

>>39078398
>[ ] You’re lovers eloping to somewhere

>>39078398
>[ ] You’re travelling buddies

Best to have an open cover, something simple that can be adapted to any situation. People voting for lovers think about how easily it would be blown if it was tested, it would be very easy for any trained eye to see that Giles and Laura aren't a young couple in love and I don't trust Laura's acting skills to carry it off..

>>39078398
>[ ] You’re traveling buddies

>>39078557
Fuck, forgot to take the name off. Sorry.

>>39078398
>[ ] You’re adventurers who need supplies for your next journey

>writing

>>39078511
>People voting for lovers think about how easily it would be blown if it was tested
Pretty sure the people who voted for it were just hoping for a moment where it would be 'tested'

>>39078711
I did it because it seemed the most fun option of the bunch.

>>39078711
Yup and I'm sure it will be written really well when it happens although I doubt it will go well for Giles when it does. It depends what you want from the quest and people will vote for what they want to read, not what makes logical sense and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that.

>>39078771
Hey, I didn't say that wasn't a good reason to vote for it.

>>39078828
Yeah sorry, that post wasn't anti anyone at all, I made the initial argument against lovers and was presenting the counter argument there.Even those of us who like making the sensible choices enjoy reading hijinks as well.

“You thought of something for a cover yet?” Laura asks.
“Yes, actually. You might not like it though.” You say, putting an arm around over her shoulder and pulling her in close.

“Wha-! What are you-“
“Hush, love. Whoever is looking for us will be looking for a black-haired princess with her Alka-Habran whatever-the-hell-I-am. They’ll be expecting friendly, or professional demeanours from us. They won’t be looking for a brown haired girl and her Alka-Habran lover.” You say.

At the word ‘lover’, her face blooms a lovely bright red and she covers it with her hands.

“Come on now, don’t be shy. Or be shy, that could work as well.” You say.
“Do we really have to do this?” She asks.
“No. Technically you could always go back and let me handle this alone.” You say.
Laura sighs and leans into you, putting an arm around your waist to complete the illusion. “At least try to make it sound like you’re not enjoying this…”
“Oh, but I do love it when pleasure and work come together.” You say, giving her shoulder a squeeze. “On the plus side, you’re cute when you’re flustered.” You say.

Her face gets redder. “Please stop talking…”
“Yes dear.” You say. Then you laugh as her face gets redder still.

>[1/2]

>>39078945
Loving the decision already

The fortified town of Catisse is well guarded, with walls and a moat and a drawbridge. You can even see some defensive weaponry up on the wall itself.

According to Laura, it’s meant to act as a fortress during wartime to hold back forces that might otherwise shoot for Analask. You believe her, as it looks like it’d make a damn good fortress.

The guards let you in without even a second glance. Looks like the whole ‘lovers’ thing is working well…
Or those guards just don’t care. Either way, you’re inside.

There are a few things that you could do here. You’d like to get an ear to the rumour mill, and possibly get a feel for what the people here think about what’s happening back at the palace. At this point no news will be good news, but you’d still feel more comfortable with more information.

You could also pay a (covert) visit to the local lord. Perhaps he’s on your side?

Then there’s the actual reason why you came. But if you do anything else, you’d like to do that last so you aren’t lugging 5 people’s worth of travel supplies around all day.

>[ ] Gather info first

>[ ] Visit the lord first

>[ ] Get the supplies

>[ ] Other

>>39079118
>[ ] Gather info first

>>39079118
>[ ] Get the supplies

>>39079118
>>[ ] Gather info first

>>39079118
>[ ] Get the supplies
then
>[ ] Gather info

>>39079118
>[ ] Gather info first

>>39079118
>[ ] Gather info first

>>39079118
>>[ ] Gather info first

>writing

“So where to first, dear?” Laura asks. She’s getting into this, if you didn’t know it was a part of your cover you’d almost say that ‘amorous’ look was real.

“Well, there was a couple of things I wanted to do before we burdened ourselves with travel stuff.” You say.
“Like what?”
“I want to see what the people here know about what’s happening back in Analask. It shouldn’t take too long.” You say.
“Okay. I don’t know this place that well, so lead the way Tophi!” She says. ‘Tophi’ is short for Tophian, a more traditional Alka-Habran name that she decided to give you.

You got to pick hers though, and you’ve always been fond of the name ‘Amelia’.

Names aside, you are leading the way. Time to get to work…

>roll 1d20

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>39079572

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>39079572

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>39079572

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>39079572
sweat it up

>>39079663
Too late, bro... We are fucked...

>writing

File: 1419908021087.gif (261 KB, 640x360)

261 KB GIF

>>39079685

You lead Laura in the direction that you’re pretty sure would have a tavern in it.

Pretty sure…

At least a normal town would have one around here…

You’ve seen that sign befo-

-oh fuck you’re lost. Don’t let it show, don’t let Laura find out.
“Tophi, we’ve been walking for a while. You’re not lost are you?” ‘Amelia’ asks.

Damn it she knows! “No… just got a little turned around…” You say, laughing nervously in a vain attempt to hide your emotions.
“If you’re looking for a tavern, I think you passed one a while back.” She says.
Fuck, yes… you were looking for a tavern but if you backtrack she’ll know…

>[ ] Swallow your pride

>[ ] Keep looking

>>39079913
>Implying we are going to die for not knowing the way.
Still agreeing, though...

>>39079913
>[ ] Swallow your pride, engage melodrama

>>39079927
>[ ] Swallow your pride

>>39079927
>Swallow your pride

>>39079927
>[ ] Keep looking

>>39079959
This.

>>39079959
This.

>>39079959
I assume this means acting as if we've failed our love, so supporting.

>writing

>>39079927
>>39079959
melo drama is best drama

“Aaaahhhhh I admit it!” You say, falling to your knees. “I have failed you my love. I was supposed to be leading the way, but I am hopelessly lost!”

“Gi-… Tophi, what are you…” Laura begins, but she stops. Instead she hugs you from behind. “Worry not my sweet, I still love you.” She says.
You crane your neck to see her. “Y-you do?” You say, forcing a teary eyed look.
“I do.” She says, pulling you back to your feet. “Now come dear, let’s go.” She says.

‘Amelia’ takes you by the hand and leads you back to where she saw the tavern. The two of you get maybe ten steps before bursting out laughing at how ridiculous that whole thing was.

As the last of your laughter dies off, you put your arm back over her shoulder. Even though it’s just a cover, it feels kind of nice being this close to Laura. And you have to admit that she has a cute laugh, and a cute smile… Really, she’s just cute when she’s happy.

Like right now…

It doesn’t take too long to backtrack to where Laura saw the tavern. It looks pretty much like a tavern, you’re not sure how you missed it…

>[1/2]

You decide to do some sniffing while Amelia talks to the barkeep about where to find the kind of supplies you’re looking for.

The sniffing is easy enough, as there’s several groups all talking about what’s going on in the capital.

The consensus seems generally in Laura’s favour, though there are a few dissenters. Apparently Roderick’s dislike of people extends to EVERYONE below him, winning him little love from among the peasantry.

They also don’t believe that Prince Louis would conspire against his aunt and uncle, and that Roderick is a fool for locking him up and risking a war with Harth.

“Like it damn well matters. Long as Roderdick’s got the crown, he may as well be the king.” One particularly grizzled looking man says.

Ah yes, and there is that…

>[ ] I hear he doesn’t have it

>[ ] Keep your mouth shut and listen

>>39080486
>[ ] Keep your mouth shut and listen

>>39080486
>[ ] I hear he doesn’t have it

>>39080486
>[ ] Keep your mouth shut and listen

>>39080486
>>[ ] I hear he doesn’t have it

>>39080486
>Shut yer yap.

>>39080545
>>39080514
Seriously though what better way to further destabilize his position than with this?

>>39080486
>[ ] Keep your mouth shut and listen
A rumor could potentially be traced back to surrounding origin

>>39080599
Not that quickly, and would it really matter if we only stay in town for a day?

>>39080599
And by that time we'll be gone...

>>39080486
>[ ] I hear he doesn’t have it

>>39080486
>[ ] I hear he doesn’t have it

>>39080599
By the time they figure out where it started we'll be halfway to Harth

>>39080486
>[ ] I hear he doesn’t have it

>>39080486
>>[ ] I hear he doesn’t have it

>writing

“I hear he doesn’t have it” You say, bumping your way into the conversation. “You didn’t hear this from me.” You speak in a hushed tone now that you’ve got their attention. “A friend of mine works in the palace. Word is that Roddy went up to get the crown an’ it was gone.”

“You think the princess took it?” One of them asks.
“No, buddy says it was the Gambler. Roddy was FURIOUS.” You say.
“The Gambler couldn’t get into the Palace, even he’s not that good.” The grizzled man says.

Ouch guys. Thank you for the confidence. “Tell that to the assassins that got the king ‘n queen.” You say.
“Somebody prolly let those guys in, aint nobody lettin’ a thief into the Palace.” Another man says.
“Hey, I’m just passing on what I heard.” You say, leaving the conversation.

You listen to how the discussion’s changed. They don’t think the crown is gone, but the doubt is there.

Good. That little rumour will spread nicely.

“What was that about?” ‘Amelia’ asks when she rejoins you.
“Politics” you say.
‘Amelia’ laughs. “Alright then. I found out where we can get the stuff we’re looking for, you ready to go?” She asks.

>Are you?

>>39080884
Yes we are.

>>39080884
Let us be on our merry way with darling.

>>39080884
How are our chances for a quick private discussion with 'Amelia' because I would like to ask her if there is a specific reason why it would be so important who got it. If not, the sooner we get out of here, the sooner we will get an opportunity to ask her.

>writing

“Yes, let’s be on our way darling.” You say.

The barkeeper gave ‘Amelia’ a list of names and addresses for –several- stores where you’ll be able to find what you need, as well as a town map to find them by.

The two of you quickly plan a route and get shopping.

You pick the stores by closeness and by the weight of the stuff you’ll be buying there, so neither of you gets too loaded down before it’s time to head back.

You get through the first few shops, and leave with traveller’s bags, bedrolls and blankets.

As you leave the store where you bought the blankets, you notice that the sun is getting pretty high in the sky. You left just after dawn, and it’s probably a ways after noon now. You must’ve spent more time wandering than you thought…

To punctuate this, ‘Amelia’s’ stomach decides to make its desires known.
As she hears it, her face turns red.

>[ ] “Lunch?”

>[ ] Keep shopping

>>39081260
>[ ] “Lunch?”

>>39081260
>[ ] “Lunch?”

>>39081260
>[ ] “Lunch?”

>writing

>>39081260
>[ ] “Lunch?”

“Lunch?” You ask.
‘Amelia’ sighs. “Yes…”
You laugh, and the two of you head off to find somewhere to eat.

Fortunately, these places are easier to find than that damn tavern… You actually stumble upon one on the way to your next destination.
It’s a little sandwich shop. It doesn’t look like much, but Klaus always used to say that ‘the best places never look like much’. So you decide to give it a chance.

You and ‘Amelia’ head up to the counter and order simple sandwiches and water, and you non-chalantly give the woman at the counter Amelia’s name when she asks for one. Then the two of you take a seat and wait.

You could talk about things right now, you’ll just have to be subtle about anything serious or personal…

>Talk about

>[ ] The Crown

>[ ] What Harth is like

>[ ] Other

>>39081543
>>[ ] What Harth is like

>>39081543
>[ ] What Harth is like

>>39081543
>[ ] The Crown

>>39081543
>[ ] What she like about us

>>39081543
>[ ] What Harth is like
>[ ] To what lengths she'll go to retake the crown from Roddy (hue)

>>39081543
>>[ ] What Harth is like
I really want to talk about the crown but this is hardly the place.

>>39081543
>[ ] What harth is like
>>39081659
I liked Roderdick better

>>39081675
Oh, I'd forgotten we were in public.

>>39081659
Scratch of that second option.

>>39081659
>You could talk about things right now, you’ll just have to be subtle about anything serious or personal…

>>39081543
>[ ] Eleanors brother

>writing

>>39081689
I'm aware. I'd forgotten that we're in public.

“So what is your family in Harth like?” You ask, subtly asking about the royalty there.
‘Amelia’ catches on quick. “They’re nice. You need to stop worrying about whether they’ll be accepting. Uncle Rou will certainly welcome us with open arms.” She says, placing her hand over yours on the table and brushing the side of it with her thumb.

Clever, ‘Rou’ is the word for ‘king’ in the old language of Laust. That was before the language you’re speaking now, which is a mix between Laustian and Harth, became a mainstay all those years ago.

“I’m not worried, I’m just… nervous. That’s all.” You say.
“Well, we’ve got a ways to go yet. If you’re this nervous now, I’d hate to be in your head when we’re actually close.” She says.

The two of you continue to speak in your strange innuendos about Harth. From the sounds of it, Queen Georgia is the nicer of the Laustright sisters. And King Julian is just as odd as Louis is.

You look forward to meeting them, if you ever make it there that is.

Lunch arrives with little consequence as you and Laura talk. The way she speaks, it sounds almost like she’s looking forward to seeing her family again more than she dreads the hardships of the journey.

Or she’s just putting on airs so no one worries about her… That sounds like something she would do.

>[1/2]

>>39081706
Sucks to think her brother and mother got thrown in the dungeons, tortured or executed

Your lunch finished, the two of you pay and leave. Well, you pay. Seeing as you’re the only one who actually brought coin with them, that’s probably going to be something that happens a lot.

The rest of the shopping trip passes without consequence. Up to and including the part where you had to come up with a good reason why you’re buying children’s clothes…

“Finally done!” ‘Amelia’ says, putting her bag down and flopping onto a bench.
“You look exhausted.” You say, sitting down next to her.
“I am…” She says, leaning her head onto your shoulder.
“Well, rest up quick. We should be getting back to our camp.” You say.
‘Amelia’ groans as she stands back up. “Right… we’ll have time to rest when we get there.” She says, reaching out to give you a hand up.
“Yeah.” You say, accepting her offer.

The sun is getting low in the sky when you finally make it to the gate, and it’s-
“-fucking closed?” You ask.
“N-no way!” ‘Amelia’ says.
“What’s going on?” You ask one of the gate guards.

“With all the hubbub over in Analask, Lord Melvitch has ordered that the gates be closed earlier than usual.” He says.
“B-but our… camp… all of our stuff is out there.” ‘Amelia’ says.
“I’m sorry ma’am, but orders are orders.” He says.

You bite your lip. There’s gotta be another way out of here…

>[ ] Look for another way out

>[ ] Try to bribe the guard

>[ ] See if the moat is jumpable

>[ ] Other

>>39082170
>[ ] Look for another way out

>>39082170
>[ ] Try to bribe the guard
>[ ] Look for another way out

>>39082170
>[ ] Look for another way out

>>39082170
>>[ ] Look for another way out

>writing

Shit… think… Can’t bribe the guard, he doesn’t have the authority to lower the drawbridge…
You could maybe hop the moat and swim if it was just you, but you, Laura and enough adventuring gear to drown you makes that a big no.

There’s bound to be secret exits somewhere, maybe someone with a boat somewhere that could take you across the moat… or possibly an auxiliary bridge…

You and ‘Amelia’ head back to the bench, sit down, and pull out the map. Hopefully there’s something of use on here…

“I’ve got nothing…” ‘Amelia’ says after a few minutes.
“That makes two of us.” You say.

Searching for another exit on foot would take a long time, and asking around would make you stand out far more than you feel comfortable with…

“I hate to say this, but we should just find a place to stay for the night… Our ‘camp’ can wait until morning.” She says.

>[ ] Search anyways

>[ ] Find a place to stay

>>39082521
>[ ] Find a place to stay

>>39082521
>[ ] Find a place to stay

Wait for night time

>>39082521
>[ ] Find a place to stay

I like where this is going.

>>39082574
>tfw i prefer melissa but I'm still just going with it

>>39082521
>>[ ] Find a place to stay

>writing

>>39082590
>having a preference when both are best

As you mull over your options, ‘Amelia’ places her head on your shoulder again and lets out a long yawn.

Looking at her, you realize something. No matter how much you want to get back, she wants to get back more. There’s more at stake here for her, and she’ll miss the people back at camp more than you ever will.
But you’re both tired, and even you have to recognize the futility of searching all night for a way around an obstacle that will be gone in the morning.

“Yeah, let’s go find somewhere to stay.” You say. “Wait here.”
You quickly head up to the guard and ask him if he knows any good places, and thankfully he’s kind enough to point you in the right direction.

“Alright, there’s a place not too far from here.” You say, grabbing both of ‘Amelia’s’ hands and pulling her up.

The inn isn’t far at all. It’s a fairly large place called “The Warm Bed”, which is about as simple as it gets when that is all you’re looking for. The inside is cozy, and the innkeeper is a middle-aged gentleman who smiles warmly at you when you enter.

He’s quick to set you up and show you to your room, and then he bids you goodnight. He also throws a subtle wink in there when he thought ‘Amelia’ wasn’t looking.

>Anything you guys wanted to talk to ‘Amelia’ about now that you’re in private?

>>39082832
>first, check for obvious eavesdropping locations, and see if she can put up a ward or something
>then ask what her plans are for retaking the crown (though not the one we've taken) and beyond

>>39082832
what are we going to do on the bed?

>>39082832
I'll back the first part of this >>39082856

but instead of talking about her plans ask her if she can teach us any new spells/enchantments.

>>39082832
Pull out our massive crown

>>39082832
Tell her about what we heard in the tavern. And ask her why sir Douchebag having the crown seems to be so important to people there

>>39082918
oh boy

>>39082856
Backing.

>writing

>>39082832
>>39082856
>>39082933
I can get behind a combo of these, but maybe ask her what she actually wants to do with her life (dreams, desires, etc.). We need some BONDING time, damn it.

>>39082993
Aaaaaand late. Frig me.

>>39082993
Did you misspell boning?

>>39083021
I think as far as euphemisms go bonding works at least equally well.

“So” You say, putting your bags down “you wouldn’t happen to know any ways to keep things –quiet- would you?”

Laura silently pulls out one of her crystal arrows and closes her eyes. The arrow fills itself with… emptiness. It’s a strange sight to behold.
“Silence” She mutters, and that is what you get. For a moment there is no sound, and then the moment passes, leaving nothing but a ringing in your ears.

“Is that the same one that the assassins used the other night?” You ask.
“Yes. I learned it because the visualization is… different. Trying to picture silence was an interesting endeavour.” She says. “But now we have privacy. What did you want to talk about?”

“I was wondering what makes the crown so important. One of the people I overheard in the tavern seemed to think that Roderick didn’t need to marry you to become King if he had it.” You say.

Laura’s expression visibly darkens at the mention of marrying Roderick. You’ll have to remember to avoid that one in the future. “They aren’t wrong… technically. Laust has been conquered a few times throughout its history, but the Crown has always remained in the Palace. There are prophecies that tie it to the Royal family, so it’s said that whoever holds it is technically the king.”

So that would make you… No, best not mention that. “What kind of prophecies?” You ask.
“Something about the end times and how it must ‘rest upon a head of gold’. It’s a very old prophecy, we only know about it because it’s written on the inside of the crown itself.” She says.

>[ ] Tell her you heard that it was stolen

>[ ] Ask her to teach you that spell

>[ ] Ask her what she plans to do after reaching Harth

>[ ] Other

>>39083146
>[ ] Tell her you heard that it was stolen
>[ ] Ask her what she plans to do after reaching Harth
>[ ] Ask her to teach you that spell

>>39083146
>>[ ] Tell her you heard that it was stolen
>>[ ] Ask her to teach you that spell
>>[ ] Ask her what she plans to do after reaching Harth

>>39083146
>“Something about the end times and how it must ‘rest upon a head of gold’.
Am I remembering correctly that Selene is blonde?

>writing

“Word is that the Crown was stolen.” You say.
“WHAT?” Laura shrieks. “By who? How? What!?!”
“Calm down, it’s just a rumour.” You say, putting a hand on her shoulder.
“Who do they say did it?” Laura asks.
“The Gambler” You say.

Laura sits down on the bed. “If Roderick doesn’t have the crown… this could change everything!”
“But it’s just a rumour.” You say.
“Yes… right… Sorry, I got a bit excited there. Funny how what would’ve been one of the worst things to happen a few days ago is actually good news right now…” She says, her spirits brightened a bit.

“Another thing that I was wondering.” You say. “Just what is the plan once we get to Harth?”
“It depends on what Uncle Julian feels is the best course. Knowing him, he’ll want his son back first and foremost. If Roderick doesn’t hand him over, then I don’t think that Uncle Julian will hesitate to take him back by force” She says.

“Going against Fate’s Chosen could end badly for him.” You point out.
“Uncle Julian won’t care.” Laura says.
“Sounds like my kind of guy.” You say.
“He’s a lot of people’s kind of guy. Just wait until you meet him.” Laura says.

You head into the small bathroom attached to your bedroom and change into your bedclothes, which you keep in your cloak along with everything else. When you come out, Laura has an arrow out and her eyes are closed. You see the same nothingness flowing into it as you did earlier.

You wait until she’s done before you speak up. “Would you be able to teach me that?” You ask.
“Probably, but that’ll have to wait until another night. We’re both tired, and I wouldn’t want you to break something up there.” She says

>[1/2]

Then Laura heads into the washroom, and you sit down on the bed.
Hopefully this won’t end the same way the last time you slept in a room with a woman did. Especially not the part that involved Marcellus, he would actually kill you if he found you and Laura like that.

You shake that memory off and think in silence until Laura comes out wearing a nightgown that the two of you bought earlier. You questioned her need for something like that on the road, but she insisted.

“Giles… have you ever done something you regret?” She asks.
“Hasn’t everyone?” You ask.
She simply looks at you, it doesn’t seem like that was a rhetorical question…

>[ ] I got my best friend killed

>[ ] I abandoned Melissa

>[ ] Give a half answer

>[ ] Other

>>39083478
>>[ ] I got my best friend killed
>>[ ] I abandoned Melissa

>>39083478
>[ ] I got my best friend killed
>[ ] I abandoned Melissa

>>39083478
>[ ] I abandoned Melissa

>>39083478
>[ ] I got my best friend killed
>[ ] I abandoned Melissa

>>39083478
>[ ] I got my best friend killed
>[ ] I abandoned Melissa

>writing

“When I was younger…” You lean back onto your elbows and look up at the ceiling. “My friends and I- Melissa included –got into things that were… less than legal.” You say. “We could always get in and out of trouble with no problems… until the time that we couldn’t. Klaus- my best friend –got caught.” You say.

“What happened to him?” Laura asks.

“He was tortured. His captors wanted to know where Melissa and I got off to, but he didn’t give us up. When they figured out that he wasn’t gonna tell them, they killed him. Melissa and I… we went back for him…” You trail off. Fuck, you’ve never actually said any of this out loud before… You always thought you were over it, but the tears say otherwise.

“We found his corpse… and the guy who did it to him bragged like the mangled body of my best friend was some kinda fuckin’ trophy!” Your throat catches, but you continue. “I killed him. I took one of the spikes that he used to heat up so he could stick ‘em places and I stuck him.” Again, and again, and again. You leave that out. You also don’t mention that you still carry that spike, it’s just a bit more refined and polished now than it was then.

“When we finished burying him, we went to sleep. Well, Melissa went to sleep. I got up and left halfway through the night.” You say.

“Why?” Laura asks.
“Because I got Klaus killed, and I didn’t want the same thing to happen to her.” You say. It’s half true, but the rest of your reason just sounds so petty that you’d laugh at yourself if you had to say it out loud.

“What’s brought all this on anyway?” You ask.
>[1/2]

“I… can be honest with you, right?”
“I’d certainly hope so.” You say, wiping your eyes off before looking over to her.
“You won’t tell anyone?” She asks.
“Only if you do me the same courtesy.” You say.
She smiles sadly. Nope, that smile isn’t a good fit for her… “Do you think I’m a bad person?” She asks.
Your eyes narrow. “No, but I think you’re about to say something that’ll make me think twice about that.” You say.

Laura takes a deep breath. “I wanted this, to be back out on the road and not worry about the Crown or getting married or being a princess or being a mom or any of that stuff. I dreaded every step that brought me closer to Analask when I had to come home, because I knew that all I would get there was princess this, marriage that, be a good queen.” She says, you can see her start to tremble.

You think you know where this is going… You stand up and walk over to her, but when you open your mouth to say something she silences you with a finger on your lips.

“Please don’t… not yet. That was my first thought, you know? The moment you told me that they were dead, my first thought was that I was free. No more marriage or kids or crown, nothing to stop me from doing what I wanted to do instead of what was expected of me.”

Laura sobs, and tears start to roll down her cheeks.

“My parents were dead. And I was HAPPY! Like it was the best thing that could have happened to me. I wished for this! And now I’ve got it… and… and…” She drops to her knees and bawls.

You kneel down in front of her and hug her tightly as she cries. It’s a good while before the tears die down to the occasional sob.

“Am I a bad person Giles?” She asks.

>Is she?

"Possibly. But I don't think I've ever met a good one."

>>39083780
>Does wanting to be free from the shackles of fate make you a bad person? No. You didn't ask for them to die, you didn't want them to die, but when it happens- let me just tell you that rationality and what's right is never on the forefront of your mind, and the fact that you regret feeling happy shows your true colors."

>>39083780
showing remorse like this is a good sign that you arent

>>39083823
>>39083839
Combine these two maybe?

>>39083837
Reasonable, but too long.

>>39083780
If you actually feel remorseful about a thing, I'd say that's a good sign that you're a good person. If you felt no guilt whatsoever over something, then there's a problem.

>>39083823
>>39083837
>>39083839

Mix all these together, I suppose. But anon's right, one's too long.

>writing

You pull back and put a hand under her chin, turning her head up to you. Then you wipe the tears off of her cheeks.

“You asked me about regret. I ask you the same question.” You say.
“I do… I regret that.” She says.
“Then you’re not a bad person.” You say.
“But I-“
“But you were happy that you could finally be free. If I remember correctly, the rest of your emotions crashed in right after that.” You say.
She presses her head into your chest.
“A bad person would have been jumping for joy, not feeling horrified for feeling even the slightest bit of joy at the only positive thing to come out of this whole ordeal.” You say.
Laura sniffs, takes a few deep breathes, and pulls away from you. “Thank you… that means a lot…” She says.

You place both hands on her cheeks, with your thumbs at the corners of her mouth. “The only thanks I need is to see you smiling again. So smiiiiiile” You say, pulling the corners of her mouth upwards into a mock smile.

Laura laughs, and you get what you were looking for.

That's all for tonight. I hope you guys still enjoy reading this as much as I enjoy writing it!

If nothing comes up, the next thread will be tomorrow night. If I end up having to cancel I'll let you know on twitter.

As always I'll stick around for a few minutes in case anyone has questions.

>>39084068
Thank's for running! On that not I have to crash.