>>1040539
>Go poke Stella

>>1040539
>>Ask if they've seen Emi
Where's the food

>>1040539
>Go poke Stella

>>1040539
>>Ask if they've seen Emi
>>Go poke Stella

>writing

"Hey guys" You say.

"Heyo" Ilica says.
"Hey Yuu" Derrick says. "And Cheska"

Cheska looks confused. "Have we met?" She asks.
"No, but the Commander filled me in" Derrick says. "What have you guys been up to?"

You turn to Cheska, figuring it's best to leave this to her.

"Getting reacquainted with my sister" Cheska says, as she sits down across the table from everyone else.
"Your... sister?" Derrick asks. "That's something Altea didn't mention..."

"I don't think Altea knew" You say.
"So who is she?" Ilica asks.
"Only 3 other devils in this castle, as far as I know pussycat" Cheska says.
Ilica's brow furrows in thought. "Well you're too old to be Fran's kid... so she must be your sister" She says.
"Bingo" Cheska says. "You're good at this guessing thing. Much better than this guy"

"I didn't know Fran had a sister..." Derrick says.
"To be fair, neither did she" Cheska says. "I've been 'dead' for a while"

While Cheska fills your friends in on the current happenings, you walk over to Stella and poke her a few times.

"Hey, Stella" You say.
Stella stirs and slowly lifts her head. Her ears move about, searching the room for whatever it is that woke her. After a few seconds of this, she turns to you. "Oh, Yuu" She says. "When did you get here?"
"Just now" You say. "You know, this probably isn't the best place to be sleeping. The table doesn't make the best pillow..."
"Any place is a good place to sleep right now..." She says.
"Tired?" You ask.

Stella nods. "That meeting was very long..." She says.

>Ask how it went

>Ask why she doesn't just go to bed

>Other

>>1040879
>Ask how it went

>Ask why she doesn't just go to bed

>>1040879
>Ask how it went

>>1040879
>Ask why she doesn't just go to bed

>>1040879
>>Ask how it went

>>1040879
>>Ask how it went

>writing

"How'd it go?" You ask.
"Lots of arguing" Stella says with a yawn. "And just when we seemed to be coming to an agreement, somebody showed up with new info and they argued for another 2 hours..."

You smile and scratch the back of your head. "Eh heh heh... that may have been me" You say.
Stella puffs out her cheeks.
"Sorry..." You say.

Stella giggles and waves you off. "It's fine. I'm just glad it didn't happen a second time" She says. Then something occurs to her, and she puts a finger on her lower lip. "But there is a way you can repay me..."
"What's that?" You ask.

Her smile widens, and she stretches her arms up as she turns in her chair. She then flops back, landing with her head in your lap.

"Oh, is that all?" You ask.
"No" She says. "I also demand that my head be pet"

>Okay

>Technically Cheska caused the interruption...

>Oher

>>1041075
>>Okay

>>1041075

>Okay

Also gently rub just on the inside of the ear and outside at the same time.

>>1041075
>>Okay

>writing

You shrug. As far as payments go, this is pretty good. If only there were more things you could by with headpats.

"So what did they end up deciding on?" You ask, as you softly stroke Stella's hair.
"Lots of stuff" She says. "The Commander said she'd be filling you in herself, and she could probably explain it all better than I could"
"Do you know which way I'll be going?" You ask.
"East" She says.
"Cool, that means more hats" You say.

"Oh?" Stella says. "What would you get going west?"
"More of those weird flesh weapons that only I can touch" You say. "Either way, I get to add to my collection"

Stella giggles "Oh Yuu, risking life and limb for fancy hats and err... flesh weapons..." She says. "Are there really flesh weapons?"
"Yes" You say. "I've only got 2 now, but Cheska says that there's a bunch more"
"Huh..." Stella says. "Who's Cheska?"
"That's Cheska" You say, pointing to Cheska.

Stella's eyes follow your finger, but she can't see Cheska from where she is.

"I can't see her" Stella says.
"You can't lift your head?" You ask.
"Don't wanna" She says. "Describe her to me"

>Well she's 10 feet tall with HUGE arms...

>Fine...

>No

>Call Cheska over

>Other

>>1041206
>>Well she's 10 feet tall with HUGE arms...

>>1041206
>>Well she's 10 feet tall with HUGE arms...

>>1041206
>Well she's 10 feet tall with HUGE arms...

>>1041206
>>Well she's 10 feet tall with HUGE arms...

>writing

Wow, the troll hive mind.

"Well, she's about 10 feet tall. With HUGE arms, and massive claws" You say.
"Ohhh?" Stella says. "She sounds frightening"
"That's not even the worst of it" You say. "She's also got these massive-..."

Cheska catches your eye and gives you a look that says you should probably stop.

"Massive... what?" Stella asks.
"Nothing" You say.
Stella purses her lips. "That's no fun" She says.

You glance up to check if Cheska is listening, then lean in and whisper to Stella. "Massive claws that- AGH" You flinch as a flame puffs in front of your face. Too small to damage anything, but the heat of it still surprises you.

It also surprises Stella, who looked like she was just getting truly comfy.

You look up to see Cheska giggling. You raise an eyebrow, and hold up the shackle.

"Dang... alright, I'm sorry" Cheska says.
"Good" You say, as you turn back to Stella.

"Did she do that?" Stella asks.
"Yeah" You say.
"What is that on your wrist anyway?" Stella asks.
"It's a shackle" You say. "For a bit of added security"
"Ohhh... don't those feel really weird?" Stella asks.
"For her, yeah. It doesn't work on me" You say.
"Handy" Stella says.
"Mostly" You reply. "It's good for making sure she doesn't try to escape, but it also means that I'm kinda stuck with her. Which can sometimes be a drag, like earlier when I was stuck out in the hall..."

>1/2

>>1041354
I sort of wanted to take it further, but couldn't think of a good way. Now i think i should have tried to convince her she was a 10 foot tall tengu with regular arms that lifts weights and has a peg leg and eye patch.

Stella smiles. "So little Gabby wants to be a healer, huh?" She asks.
"Yeah" You say. "Is there gonna be a problem if she doesn't carry on the family tradition?"
Stella giggles. "No. There's plenty of bunnies to man the desks" She says. "Gabby can be whatever she wants to be, and she'll make the cutest little healer ever!"

"She would, wouldn't she?" You say. "Actually speaking of that, have any of you guys seen Emi?"
"Yeah, actually" Ilica says. "She was in here when we came, but she left after the server brought her some stuff"
"When was that?" You ask.
"A while ago" Derrick says. "Why?"
"Well... that stuff was for Gabby and I" You say. "Where could she have gone..."
"Maybe she got sidetracked?" Derrick says.

"Maybe..." You say.

>Get lunch here

>Try and find Emi

>Other

>>1041518
>Try and find Emi

>>1041518
>>Try and find Emi
She was trying to get you food, it would be rude to leave her hanging.

>>1041518
>>Try and find Emi

>>1041518
>>Try and find Emi

>writing

"I should probably go look for her" You say.
Stella pouts.

"What? I'll come back" You say.
"Something wrong?" Ilica asks.
"No. My pillow is just leaving after he so rudely woke me up" Stella says.

"Uh oh, Yuu's in trouble" Ilica says.
"No twouble" Munchkin says. "Too much of dis fow twouble"
"Too much of what now?" You ask.
"She's talking about her peas" Hella says. "She's been complaining that they gave her too many..."

"Well, you heard her. No trouble, because Munchkin has too many peas" You say.
"Oh... fine" Stella says. "But hurry back. I don't wanna fall asleep and end up with a sore neck"
"Okay" You say. "Come on Cheska"

>1/2

You and Cheska head out, and start walking back to where you were.

"Hmm? This isn't the way we came" Cheska says.
"No, but it takes about the same amount of time, and it passes the library" You say. "I figure if anything would sidetrack Emi..."
"Good call" Cheska says. "I take it she's a bit of a bookworm-... err, booksnake"
"A bit, yeah" You say.

You get a little ways further, before Cheska nudges you with her elbow.

"Sooo. You never mentioned that you had a girlfriend" Cheska says.
"What, you mean Stella?" You ask. "No. That's normal for her"
"It is?" Cheska says. "So she does that to everyone?"
"Well... no" You say.

Cheska grins. "Just you, huh?" She asks.
"What?" You ask.
"Nothing" Cheska says. "Is this the library here?"
"Yeah" You say. "You can come in if you want. There's some neat stuff in here"
"I'm good. I'll wait out here" She says. "Just don't go too far from the door"

You nod to Cheska, and head in. Jade is at her desk reading a book. As you watch, a sprite flies in to turn the page, before heading back to its little house.

"Hey Jade" You say.
"Good afternoon" Jade says. "Looking for Emi?"
"How'd you know?" You ask.
"She had your lunch when she was here" Jade says. "If you want to find her, she headed down to where you guys were. But she'll probably loop back up to the dining hall when she sees that you're not there. It's up to you"

>Ask what Jade is reading

>Heaad back down to Fran's room

>Head back to the dining hall

>Ask if she knows of a way to de-demonify someone

>Other

>>1041782
>>Ask if she knows of a way to de-demonify someone
Here we go.

>>1041782
>>Ask if she knows of a way to de-demonify someone

>>1041782
>>Ask if she knows of a way to de-demonify someone
>>Other, Use Coral to locate Emi.

>writing

"In a minute" You say, as you check back to see if Cheska is listening. "I wanted to ask you something"
"Go ahead" She says.

"I was wondering if there was a way to... 'fix' a demon" You say.
"Tired of lacking a heartbeat?" She asks.
"Not for me..." You say.
"Ah, for our guest then?" Jade asks. "I see..."
"Do you know anything?" You ask.
"Hmmm... I've read some things, I think. It was never a subject that interested me" She says. "I can look into it once I'm done with this, if you'd like"
"Yeah" You say. "Thanks"
"Don't thank me yet. This research might not even bear fruit..." Jade says.

"Yeah, but you're still taking the time to do it" You say.
"That's true... I never thought of it like that" She says. "Do you need anything else?"
"Nah, I think I'm good for now" You say. "Let me know if you find anything"
"Will do" Jade says. "Take care of yourself"
"You too" You say, as you head back out.

Cheska turns to you as you come through the doorway. "No snake?"
"Nope" You say.

You consider sending Coral to find Emi, but she's not with you... she must still be in Fran's room.

"Where to?" Cheska asks.

>Back to the dining hall

>Over to Fran's room

>Other

>>1041908
>>Back to the dining hall

>>1041908
>>Back to the dining hall

Quick enough, we might catch her leaving or something.

>writing

"Let's head back to the hall" You say. "Jade said Emi would head back there once she sees we're not at Fran's"
"Okay" Cheska says. "One question"

"What?" You ask, as you start walking.
"How does she work in the library as a slime?" Cheska asks. "Doesn't everything get all sticky?"
"She uses sprites for most things" You say. "Emi's been helping her lately, but apparently Rhea usually helps her withanything too heavy for the sprites"

"And Rhea is..."
"One of the knights" You say. "Very tall, big muscles, big horns. You can't miss her"
"Ah" Cheska says.
"Have you met any of the other knights?" You ask.
"Just the mouse" Cheska says. "She's the one who escorted me up from my cell. I thought it was an odd choice, sending someone no larger than me..."

"Pip might be small, but she's a strong mage" You say. "From what I've heard, she's probably better than you"
"That's not actually all that hard" Cheska says. "I'm just good at making fires. I don't actually have much control over it, and I can't use any split element leaning stuff"
"Now's as good a time as any to learn" You say.

Cheska snorts. "I'm sure everyone will be jumping at the opportunity to teach someone who may try to murder them tomorrow" She says.
"Doesn't mean you can't ask" You say.
She shrugs. "I'd rather save myself the rejection" She says.

>1/2

You and Cheska walk back into the dining hall.

"We're back" Cheska says.
"No luck?" Ilica says.
"Nah. Emi should be back up here any minute, so we figured we'd just wait" You say.
"Smart" Ilica says.

"Ahhh, my pillow has returned" Stella says.
"You think so highly of him Stella" Ilica says.
"Okay, fine. 'Ahh, my heroic warrior with the comfy thighs is back!'" Stella says.

"Yeah, yeah" You say, as you head back to your old seat, lift up Stella's head, and sit down under it. "Better?"
"My hero!" Stella says.

You chuckle, as Stella takes your hand and puts it on the top of her head.

"10 seconds" Ilica says, reaching a hand over to Derrick. "I told you he'd go right for it"
Derrick sighs and drops a few coins into Ilica's hand.

"I really don't understand why people ever bet against Ilica..." Stella says.
"At least where Yuu is concerned" Ilica says. "Good 'ol reliable Yuu has made me a decent amount of spending coin"

>Do I get a cut?

>Ask if Stella is like this for other people

>Glad I could be of service?

>Other

>Ask if Stella is like this for other people

>>1042213
>>Ask if Stella is like this for other people

>>1042213
>Ask if Stella is like this for other people

>writing

You tune out the conversation for a bit as you stroke Stella's soft hair. What Cheska said is bothering you, so you decide to bring it up.

"Hey Stella..." You say.
"What is it?" She asks.
"I was wondering if... are you like this around other people?" You ask.

Stella smiles mischieviously. "By other people, do you mean 'other people' or 'other boys'?" She asks.

You chuckle nervously. Was it that obvious?

Stella giggles "Because he answer to the former is yes, but the latter is no" She says.
"Really?" You ask. "C-can I ask why?"
"Hmm... probably because-" She reaches up and pinches your cheeks. "-no other boys are as cute as you"

"O-oh..." You say.

She giggles again. "Ahh~ he blushes" She says. "And it's a plus that you're suuuper warm and comfy"
"Th-thanks" You say.

Stella smiles and lets her arms fall back down. "Now if you'll excuse me, I think I am at ideal comf levels for a good nap" She says.
"Sleep well" You reply.
She closes her eyes and hums. "Just you try and stop me..." She says.

You smile and look back up at the room. Ilica is currently telling Cheska about your first training session with the knights, while Hella holds the pair of little kids.

Before you can jump in, Emi finally arrives.

"Here you guys are" Emi says. "I've been looking everywhere!"
"So have we" You say. "Lunch?"
"Still got it" Emi says, holding up a small bag.
"Awesome"

That's all for tonight!

Next thread will be on Sunday.

As always I'll be sticking around for question/suggestion time!

>>1042445
Thanks for running

>>1042445
Great thread, Smiley!

"So healing isn't as simple as I thought..." You say.
"Of course not. If it were that easy, everyone would be doing it" Emi says. "I can't believe you thought that all you had to do was 'use the magic'"
"You made it seem pretty simple" You say.

"I've been studying since I was about this long" Emi says, stretching out her arms. It seems strange that she measures herself in length instead of height, but you guess it makes sense. It'd be hard to measure height on someone who can choose how tall she wants to appear.

Having finished your lunch, you're now just hanging out in the dining hall. Stella is still asleep with her head in your lap, seeming perfectly content as you stroke her hair.

Derrick and Cheska seem to be talking about fire magic, and Ilica is trying to have a normal conversation with Hella...

"Hey! Kitty! Hey! Kitty!" Munchkin says.

... and failing. Ilica is clearly annoyed, as the Munchkin's been at this for about 5 minutes. Ilica turns the other way, but Munchkin is not deterred.

"Hey!" Munckin says. "Kitty! Heyy! Kiiiiiittyyyyy!"
"WHAT-... is it sweetie?" Ilica says.

Munchkin seems momentarily spooked by Ilica's shouting, but continues nonetheless.

"Luf you!" Munchkin says.
Ilica's annoyance melts away, and she hugs the little bunny.

"Aww" Emi says. I think Ili-"

"There you guys are!" Marybell says.
"Is it time?" Derrick asks.
"Yeah. The Commander wants you and Yuu in her office" Marybell says.
"Am I invited, or am I waiting outside?" Cheska asks.

"She should have no problems with you sitting in, since this involves you anyway" Marybell says.
"Alright. We'll be there in a bit" Derrick says.

>Go now

>Bring Stella somewhere she can sleep

>Have you been looking for us long?

>Other

>>1048856
>>Bring Stella somewhere she can sleep
Gotta take care of the bun.

>>1048856
>Bring Stella somewhere she can sleep

>>1048856
>>Bring Stella somewhere she can sleep

>>1048856
>Bring Stella somewhere she can sleep
>Have you been looking for us long?

>Bring Stella somewhere she can sleep

>writing

"Yeah, lemme just take Stella somewhere she can actually sleep and I'll be right over" You say.
"Stella...?" Marybell asks, as she peers over the table to see where Stella is. She blushes when she spots her. "Ah, alright then. J-just don't be too long"
"Kay" You say.

Marybell heads out, and Derrick walks around the table to you. "I'm gonna go on ahead" He says.
"See you there" You say, bumping fists wit Derrick before turning to Hella. "Hey, could you show me where her room is?"
"Sure" Hella says.
"Cool, let me just..." You reply, as you get your arms under neath Stella and lift her so you can stand up. She's a bit heavier than Cheska, but still not a problem. Once you're sure you're not going to drop her, you turn to Hella again. "Okay"

You and Hella head out of the dining hall, with Cheska trailing behind.

"I didn't think the meeting would tire her out so much..." Hella says.
"She didn't get much sleep either" You say.
"None of us did" Hella says with a yawn. "I guess a 4 hour long meeting didn't help... how are you holding up?"
"I'm fine" You say.
"Really? I thought you might be tired too, all things considered" Hella says.

"Why... oh right" You say. "I do have that demonic stamina, after all"
"Just don't overdo it" Hella says, poking you in the nose.
"Kay" You say.

>1/2

You lay Stella down on her bed, careful not to jar her too much lest she drag you in with her. Not that you'd normally mind, as you could use a nap yourself and Stella makes good napping company... but you do have things to do.

"Thanks Yuu" Hella says. "I can take it from here"
"Alright" You say. "I might see you after the meeting"
"I'll be around" Hella says.

You wave to Hella, and walk out of Stella's room to see Cheska smiling mischieviously.

"What?" You ask.
"Nothing" Cheska says, as she starts walking to Altea's office.
"That was not nothing" You say.

"Fine, I was just thinking that most guys would kill to be as popular with the ladies as you are" Cheska says.
"I don't think killing would help anyone with that..." You say.

"It helps some" Cheska says. "Still, I'm wondering how someone as oblivious as you managed it..."
"Stella says it's because I'm cute" You say.
"Did... did you actually ask her?" Cheska asks.
"Yeah" You say.
"And she gave you a straight answer?" She asks.
"Yeah" You say.
"Huh..." Cheska says. "How'd you meet that girl anyway?"

>2/3

"So she started giving you lessons on how to deal with girls?" Cheska asks.
"Yeah" You say.
"I think I'm gonna have to get her side of this story. It sounds hilarious" She says.
"Does it?" You ask.
"I'll be finding out soon enough" Cheska says, as the two of you walk into Altea's office.

"There you two are" Altea says. "Shut the door please"

You close the door of the office behind you, as you let your eyes pass over the people in the room. Derrick and the knights are all here, as are Dustin and Sophia. Aside from them you don't recognize anyone else, but it's obvious from their uniforms that they're all military.

"This should come as no surprise to those who were present for the meeting, but I'll say it now for those of us who weren't" Altea says. "Given the Legion's weakened position, it is my belief that now is the time to advance on the capital. Time is of the essence. Long seiges are a luxury we cannot afford. We plan to be storming the Palace within a month, and to do this we'll be marching to Bell's Run tomorrow morning"

Altea's announcement is met by a murmur from the room.

"Any questions? Objections?" Altea asks.
"Sounds good to me" You say. "Who's watching the place while we're gone?"
"The Guild has agreed to take on that responsibility" Altea says. "Given our past dealings with the Legion in Lubars, the only means they would have of sieging Locke would involve monsters. So who better to stand guard?"

Altea eyes the room. "If that's all, military personnel should return to their duties" She says. "The rest of you will stay, I have more to say"

The military men salute and start filing out...

There's a lot of them, so this might be a while...

>Talk to Dustin and Sophia

>Head over to Derrick

>Talk to Cheska

>Other

>>1049172
>>Head over to Derrick
Best bro.

>>1049172
>>Head over to Derrick

>>1049172
>>Head over to Derrick

>writing

You step out of the way of the doorway to let them all pass, and head over to Derrick.

"So I assume that the 'we' includes you and I" You say.
"That it does... well, kind of" Derrick says.
"Kind of?" You ask.
"You'll see" He says.

You stand and watch the military men leave for a moment, before turning back to Derrick.

"So... Leon in less than a month" You say. "Sounds like it might be difficult"
"It will be, but she's right. Time is not on our side" Derrick says. "The sooner we can unite Lubars, the sooner we can turn our attention to the west"
"Agreed" You say.

Derrick doesn't seem too happy right now. But you can understand that, as 'storming the palace in a month' also means 'facing his father in a month'.

Almost makes you glad that you don't have actual parents. Among your friends, good parents seem to be a rarity. Sure, Stella's dad is cool, Lance and Fran are awesome, and you guess Dustin is okay... but then there's Derrick, Cheska, Ilica...

When the room has cleared, it gets quiet. Altea seems to be gathering her thoughts for something...

>Ask why you're all still here

>Ask how Altea plans on speedrunning Lubars

>Other

>>1049316
>Ask how Altea plans on speedrunning Lubars

AGDQ still on your mind, Smiley?

>Ask how Altea plans on speedrunning Lubars

>>1049316
>>Ask how Altea plans on speedrunning Lubars

>writing

"So how do you plan on getting all the way to Leon so fast?" You ask.

Altea takes a deep breath. "Shut the door please, Pippi" She says.
Pip quickly closes the door, and leans on it.

"I'm going to be frank with you all" She says. "The reason I kept you back, is because I have no idea"

The room is silent with the exception of Cheska, who snorts and starts laughing.

"Hey, Cheska..." You say.
"I'm sorry" She says. "I couldn't help it. You actually said all that when you had no idea how to make it happen?"

"That's enough" Marybell say, putting her hoof down.

"It was neccessary to get the guild, and my commanders on board" Altea says. "The Huntmaster is a hard man to bargain with..."
"So we find a way to do it" You say. "It can't be that hard"

Everyone looks at you like you just grew a third head.

"... right?" You ask.
"Boy, even Bell's Run is built to several weeks of siege. I had those gates made myself, so they won't break easy" Dustin says. "And the anti-air barrier is no joke either"
"And Bell's Run is only the first step..." Marybell says.

>What if the gate was open when the army arrived?

>Can we skip Bell's Run?

>I suppose destroying the place is off the books...

>Other

>>1049445
big wall and anti air, any way of going under?

>What if the gate was open when the army arrived?

>>1049445
>>I suppose destroying the place is off the books...

Wasn't Bell's Run that place we got the hat? They were barely on alert. Getting an elite squad in there wouldn't be that hard.

>What if the gate was open when the army arrived?

>>1049445
>Could we disrupt barrier with our unique magic somehow?

>>1049445
>>What if the gate was open when the army arrived?

>writing

"I suppose destroying the place is off the books..." You say.
"It is" Altea says.
"Alright then... what if the gate was open when the army arrived?" You ask.
"That would be lovely, but we have no one on the inside" Altea says.

"Yet" You say.

Altea searches your face.

"Hey Derrick, how long would it take to get to Bell's Run if we took the cart right now and floored it the whole way?" You ask.
"A few hours, at most" He says, as the realization dawns on him. "We'd get there before any word of our armies reached them, and we could hide out through the night..."

You turn to Altea and smile.

"You plan on doing it yourself?" Altea asks. "They'd be on guard for you, you know"
You shrug. "I could go in the same way the Legion got in here" You say. "Except without the murder"

"They'd also be on the lookout for demons" Derrick says, with an obvious glance at Cheska.
"I never said I had to be the one to do it..." You say.

Altea smirks. "But it certainly sounds like you want to" She says.

>It would work better with someone else...

>I do

>Other

>>1049597
>>I do
where else would we get more hats for our collection

>writing

>>1049597
>I do
Damn I thought you would run later.

"I do" You say.

"Well then, might I make a suggestion?" Dustin asks. "Don't go in the front door"
"I assume you mean to say there's another way in" Altea says.
"Certainly. There's a secret tunnel between my mansion and the outside, but..." Dustin trails off. "Well, there's an issue there"

"What is it?" You ask.
"I locks from the inside" Dustin says. "My retainer, Desmond, is tasked with opening and closing it. But he won't open it for anyone but Sophie and I..."
"So we bring one of you with us" You say.

"Well... I'm not much of a fighting man, and I don't want to see my Sophie in harms way..." He says.

"You wouldn't be in harm's way" Altea says. "You'd only need to open the way. After that you could come back, or sit tight in your manor"
"When we left, the manor was occupied by the Inquisition" Dustin says. "That's the issue"

"So you're saying what we need is not a covert force, but a strike team" Altea says. "I believe we can manage that... unfortunately the knights can't take part, as they have their own duties tomorrow..."

"I think there's plenty of capable fighters we could bring" You say.
"Meyu's crew for one" Derrick says. "Hell, with Yuu and I along, they might be enough"
"Don't forget me" Cheska says.
"Cheska too" Derrick says.

You look over to Dustin and Sophia. You can definitely get a good team together, but which one of them do you bring along?

>Dustin

>Sophia

>Can't you just write us a letter for your retainer?

>Other

>Dustin

>>1049773
>>Dustin
A letter is begging to be intercepted.

>>1049773
>>Sophia

>>1049773
>>Dustin

>>1049773
>>Dustin
>Other, "Ask if there are objections?"

>taking a short food break, will resume writing when I return

"As for who should be opening the door..." You say.
"I... I'll do it" Dustin says. "If things go south, better to lose an old geezer like me, than someone with their lives ahead of them"
"That's what I was going to say anyway, but thank you for volunteering" You say.

"Are you sure about this, father?" Sophia asks.
"Rest easy. He'll be in good hands" Altea says.

"So when do we leave?" Cheska asks.
"You shouldn't have to go right away" Altea says. "Put your team together and get some rest. Sundown seems like a good time to start moving"

"Alright" You say.

>Find Meyu

>Let Ilica and the others know what's happening

>Find someone else who might join (specify)

>Other

>>1049987
>>Find someone else who might join (specify)
would emi be a bad idea, never know when we are going to need a medic but i dont know how good she is at being sneaky.

>>1049987
>>Find Meyu

>Let Ilica and the others know what's happening

>>1049987
>Let Ilica and the others know what's happening

>writing

"I'm gonna head back up to the hall and let Ilica and the others know what's happening" You say.
"Okay. I'll go see if I can find Meyu" Derrick says. "He's bound to be around here somewhere... if I find him, I'll bring him to the courtyard, so meet us there when you're done"
"Deal" You say. "See you guys"

You head out with Cheska, in the direction of the dining hall.

"I can see what you mean by finding outlets" Cheska says.
"Outlets...?" You ask, before you remember what you said to her earlier. "Hey, it's not stupid"
"Not that. Altea gave you the chance to take the easy road, and you turned her down" She says.
"The easy road is boring" You say. "If I were doing things the easy way, I'd probably still be in Mortifas"

"Oh yeah?" She asks.
"Escaping there wasn't easy. But now instead of being stuck inside that place, I got to go back and destroy it" You say.
"Sounds like that must have been satisfying" Cheska says.
"It was" You say. "But if I had to pick, I'd say that the nap I took afterwards was more satisfying..."

"Oh yeah, your friend mentioned that" She says. "Did your bunny friend have anything to do with that satisfaction...?"

>Well she did bring the healer...

>Yes

>Not really

>Other

>>1050229
>>Well she did bring the healer...

>>1050229
>Yes

>>1050229

>Yes

>>1050229
>>Well she did bring the healer...
But partly,
>>Yes

>Well she did bring the healer...

>>1050229
>Yes.

>>1050229
>>Yes
Bunny snugs be dank, yo.

>writing

There are far too many top tier waifus in this quest. Bunny, kitty and demon? Who can possibly choose?!

File: better taste.png (527 KB, 858x1000)

527 KB PNG

>>1050328
>implying there's a choice that's not snugglebun

>>1050362
Ikr

>>1050328
They are all great

>tfw smiley won't allow harem

>>1050328
Harem end when?

>>1050377
Never anon. Smiley doesn't do harem.

>>1050408
I dunno, it seemed like he was pretty up for it in Blood Moon Quest.

If we could've kept enough of them alive to harem.

"Well, she did bring the healer" You say. "I was pretty busted up. I don't think I could've slept on those burns..."
"Burns?" She asks. "I thought the place caved in, how'd you get burns?"
"Well, I tried absorbing the Chaos Engine and turning its own energy against it..." You say.

"That... that sounds like a horrible idea" Cheska says.
"It was" You say. "But I didn't realize that until I had started channeling it, and then I couldn't shut it off..."

"So she brought you a healer" She says. "Is that all she did?"
"Well, she did stick around to snuggle" You say. "It was nice and warm and comfy... until her dad showed up"

Cheska cracks up and starts laughing.

"Oh jeez. What did he say?" She asks.
"Nothing. I was 'asleep'" You say.
Cheska keeps laughing. "Who is her dad anyway? She must be pretty important if they let her into that big meeting"
"He's the huntmaster" You say.

Cheska looks shocked, but something seems to click. "So that's why..." She says.
"What?" You ask.
"I had some trouble deciphering a few things in that letter, but now it makes sense" She says.
"I forgot about the letter" You say.
"Well, what was in it doesn't really matter now" She says. "Mahron wanted Carthac's spear reclaimed, me dead, you dead, the guildmaster's rabbit daughters taken to him, and there was a general order to spread some terror"

"Why would they want Stella?" You ask.
"Probably for the same reason why they kept this country's queen and princess for so long" She says. "Hoping to do the same thing to the huntmaster as they did to the king"

"That wouldn't happen" You say.

"Why. Would you march on down and take her back?" She asks.

>Yes

>I'd like to think that I'd have some sort of plan...

>The Huntmaster is strong

>Other

>>1050455
>>Yes

>>1050455
>>Yes

>>1050455
>>Yes

Stoned face. Anyone who fucks with bun fucks with us, and they don't want to fucks with us.

>>1050455
>>Yes
Of course.

>>1050455
>Yes

We need to include campy lines like "I fight for my friends!" in there as well.

>Yes

>writing

>>1050455
>The spear is mine now.

"Yes" You say.

"Wow... no hesitation at all" She says. "Must be nice, having a friend like you"

You tilt your head. "But you do have a friend like me" You say.
"Yeah, because you'd march for miles into enemy territory just to save my sorry ass..." She says.

You shrug. "I've done more for people I didn't know at all" You say.

Cheska turns to you, trying and failing to blink off her surprise. After a moment she turns away. "Oh..." She says. "Uhh... thanks, I guess"
You pat her on the back. "Don't sweat it. You're part of the team now" You say.

"It really doesn't bother you..." She says.
"What does?" You ask.
"What I am" She says.
"Well..."

>Kind of

>It bothers you enough for both of us

>Not really

>Other

>>1050616
>Nope

>>1050616
>>It bothers you enough for both of us

>>1050616
>>Not really

>>1050616
Nah.

>>1050616
>>It bothers you enough for both of us

>>1050616
>>Not really

>writing

"It doesn't" You say.
"Not even a little? She asks.
"Nope" You say. "Besides, I think it bothers you enough for both of us"

Cheska smiles. "I guess that's true" She says.
"So don't sweat it" You say. "We're going out into the field now, so I'll be watching your back"
"Who's gonna watch your back?" She asks.

You shrug. "I dunno. Derrick probably" You say.

Cheska giggles. "You sound so certain" She says.
"Well, he's never let me down before" You say, as the two of you arrive at the dining hall. You look in to see that Ilica isn't here.

"Dang" Cheska says.
"They were done eating" You say. "Can't expect them to hang around here forever"
"Where do you think they went?" Cheska asks.

"I dunno. Probably to their rooms" You say. "They're this way. Come on"

>1/2

You head over to Hella's room, which is right next to Stella' room. Sure enough, Ilica and Hella are inside, along with Emi. It looks to be just them, until you spot Vivian exploring the place.

"Hey you two" Ilica says. "What brings you here?"
"News" You say.
"Right. How'd things go down there?" Ilica asks.

"Pretty well. Looks like things are going to be moving a little quicker than we expected" You say.
"How much quicker?" Emi asks.
"The troops march tomorrow morning" You say.

"You're leaving so soon?" Emi asks.
"Well, the troops leave tomorrow morning" You say. "Cheska, Derrick and I will be heading out tonight"

"Why?" Emi asks.

You explain the bare bones of your plan to the girls. You'd go inot more detail, but at the moment all you've got is the bare bones...

"Are you sure you'll be okay?" Emi asks.

>I'll be fine

>You can come with us if you want

>I'll get back to you on that once the mission is over

>Other

>>1050873
>>I'll be fine
puttin' the fool in foolhardy

>>1050873
>You can come with us if you want

>>1050873
>>You can come with us if you want

>>1050873
>>I'll be fine
NOTHING could POSSIBLY go wrong.

>>1050873
>>I'll get back to you on that once the mission is over

>>1050888
Trips confirm our safety

>I'll be fine

>writing

"I'll be fine" You say. "Probably"
"You said that last time..." Emi says.
"Well if you want to make sure, you can always come with us" You say.

Emi ponders for a moment, looking at the ground as though the answer were there. When the moment passes, she looks straight into your eyes. "Alright" She says.

"Seriously?" Ilica asks.
"Yeah" Emi says. "I'm not going to sit around wondering this time. I'll go with you"

You blink a few times.

"Looks like that wasn't the answer he was expecting" Cheska says.
"It wasn't, but I'm not going to refuse you" You say. "Sounds like we're heading out at sundown. Think you'll be ready by then?"
"I can manage that" Emi says, as she 'stands'. "I'll need some things from the library. Excuse me"

Emi slithers out, leaving you with Ilica and Hella.

"Wow" Ilica says. "I didn't think she'd say yes either..."
"Is she not that strong?" Hella asks.
"Nah, she's the super mage" Ilica says. "Her ice magic saved all of our butts when that stupid tower exploded. But she's never really been a fighter"

Hella glances towards the door. "I wonder what's changed..." She says.

>Go after Emi

>Stay here for a bit

>Go see the devils

>Other

>>1051123
>>Go see the devils
Gotta get my daily dose of diabetes before we die.

>>1051123
>Go see the devils

>>1051123
>>Go see the devils

>>1051123
>>Go see the devils

>writing

"Where are you off to?" Hella asks.
"I've gotta go break this to the little devils" You say.
"Want us to come too?" Ilica asks.
"If you want" You say.

Ilica and Hella exchange a glance, shrug, and stand up.

"We might as well. Just need to find Vivi..." Ilica says.

As you make your way to the door, Vivian pounces on your head and latches on.

"Well, that solves that. Let's go" Ilica says.

The 5 of you head out, towards Fran's room.

"You're not gonna like... get her off?" Cheska asks.
"Nah" You say, kitten still latched onto the side of your head. Like this you can't see out of your right eye, but it's not so bad. "I'm good"
"He's used to it now" Ilica says. "That one's had his number ever since they met..."

"At least she's not biting this time..." You say.
"She's not?" Ilica asks, leaning over to get a better look. "Ah, she's enjoying the view"
"Mew" Vivi says.
"Ah he's not tha-..." Ilica says, stopping just short. "Hang on. Stop walking for a second"

You do as she says. "What's up?" You ask.

Ilica stands in front of you, looking at your face. "I could've sworn..." She says.
"What is it, Ilica?" Hella asks.
"Yuu got taller" Ilica says.
"I did?" You ask.
"Yeah" Ilica says. "When we first met, I had a few inches on you, easy"

>You did not

>Is that normal?

>You might have shrunk

>Other

>>1051389
>>You might have shrunk

>>1051389
>>You might have shrunk

>>1051389
>>Is that normal?

>>1051389
>You might have shrunk

>You might have shrunk

>writing

"Are you sure you didn't shrink?" You ask.
"I didn't shrink" Ilica says.

"So I grew" You say. "That's normal though, isn't it?"
"Well, yeah. But..." She says. "But I was hoping I would get to last a little longer without being the shortest..."

"You're taller than Hella though" You say.

Ilica turns to Hella. As she watches, Hella perks her ears up.

...

"The ears don't count!" Ilica says.
Hella giggles and rubs Ilica's back. "It's not so bad being short, Ilica" She says.
"I'm not short..." Ilica says.
"There, there..." Hella says.

You stare at the two of them for a moment, then shrug and keep walking.

>1/2

When you arrive at Fran's room, you find it suspiciously quiet.

You poke your head in, and find Fran with Gwen, Ariadne's mother.

"Heyo" You say.
"Hello Yuu" Gwen says.
"Hey there" Fran says. "What brings you back here?"

"I was looking for the kids" You say. "Where'd they run off to"
"Lance took them to the courtyard to play around" Fran says. "What's going on?"

"Ahh, well..."

You let Fran in on what's happening.

"Ah, back into the fray then?" She asks. "Good luck"
"Thanks" You say.

>Head to the courtyard

>Ask what they were talking about

>Other

>>1051587
>>Head to the courtyard

>>1051587
>>Head to the courtyard

>>1051587
>>Head to the courtyard
No reason to snoop.

>Head to the courtyard

>writing

"I'll head up to the courtyard then" You say. "See you guys later"

Fran nods. "You're leaving at sundown, yes?" She asks.
"Yeah" You say.
"We'll see if we can get everyone together to see you off" Fran says.
"That'd be good" You say. "I guess I'll see you then"
"Yeah" Fran says. "But uhh... you are aware that Vivian is on your head, right?"
"That's normal" You say. "See ya!"

You wave to Fran and Gwen and head back out

"I didn't think I'd see those two hanging out" Hella says, as you all start walking to the courtyard.
"I think it's a good fit" Ilica says. "After all, their offspring are all a bunch of troublemakers"

"Good point..." Hella says. "Yuu, are you really not going to do anything about her?"
"She's fine, she's calm" You say. "If I try to mess with her at all, I could end up getting bit"
"O... kay" Hella says.

>1/2

You reach the courtyard and look around. You see Lily, Daisy and Gabby running around with Coral. You also see Derrick, Madelaine and Meyu's crew. Lance seems to be hanging around them as well. You think there's only one person missing...

"Where'd the Munchkin go anyway? I thought she was with your guys" You say.
"Oh, her? Sugar crash hit her like a freight cart, so we gave her to Stella" Ilica says. "They'll both wake up eventually"
"That makes sense" You say.

"Yuu!" Daisy shouts, as she breaks away from the others to run up to you.
"Hey there" You say.
"You have something on your face!" Daisy says.
"I do?" You ask. "Where?"
"There!" Daisy says, pointing at Vivi.

You bring a hand up like you're feeling your face. Of course, it runs into Vivi.

"Oh my goodness" You say, as you pull the kitty off of your head. "How did you get there?"
Daisy giggles, but Vivian is not happy with losing her perch.

"Hey there" Meyu says in his usual volume as he walks over. "Long time no see. Sorry we missed the party"
"No problem. It wasn't really all that eventful after the beginning" You say.
"I told you he didn't notice us" Gerard says.

"I wasn't talking about your birthday. We were there" Meyu says. "I meant after that"
"After... oh yeah" You say. "That wasn't really all that eventful either"
"Oh?" Meyu asks.
"Well... my new pajamas got ruined... but I got to add another weird flesh weapon to my collection" You say.
Meyu laughs. "Always the optimist" He says. He keeps laughing until he sees Cheska, and his look sours. "Is that..."
"The demon from the dungeons? Yeah" You say.

Meyu sighs. "We talked about this, kid" He says.

You purse your lips. You don't really want to talk about this. So you look down at Vivi, then back at Meyu.

"Hey Vivi, you wanted a perch right?" You ask.
"Mew?"
"Huh?"
"He's much taller than me. Go get him!" You say, as you toss the kitty up at Meyu.

"Wha-! Hey, don't just-" Meyu says. "Gha, god. Somebody give me a hand with this thing!"

That's all for tonight!

Next thread might be tomorrow, depending on how much energy I have remaining after what's looking like a long Monday...

As always I'll be sticking around for question/suggestion time!

>>1051932
Did...
Did Yuu just Pocket Sand Vivi at this guy?

That's amazing.

>>1051947
Thanks for running Smiley

>>1051954
I zoomed to the bottom to make sure I hadn't already read this entire thread and saw your quote. I was then anticipating this moment for the entire time I was reading.

Maybe we should keep more pocket kittens around. Like the villain that ran around with a suit of armor made of babies, except these ones scratch and bite.

Who are we kidding, Yuu is more likely to become clad in a suit of armor made of baby mammas.

Also, has anyone else noticed that Altea only seems to adopt Harem Protagonists? She has Derrick, he is a confirmed Harem protag. among the knights, and now she has Yuu who is obviously a slice of life/Harem/Shonen-battle/Child-Raising manga protagonist.

Do you think Altea only adopts sons who she considers to be significantly alpha male and capable of the dreaded art of accidental seduction?

>>1056756
We could always shoot for the Ilica end. Then we could just make our own kittens. As many as we need.

>/qst/ Thread Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Beyond%20the%20Gate
>QM Twitter: twitter.com/SmileytheQM
>Character list (Incomplete): http://pastebin.com/ffH25ciB

"Finally gotch-yeow! Lay off with the claws!" Meyu shouts, as his efforts to remove Vivian from his head continue to prove fruitless. Lily, Daisy and Cheska all laugh.

"So you did end up getting her out after all that..." Zaine says.
"It's not like I did it willy nilly" You say. "They had already taken her out of the dungeons when we did the shackling"
"She was?" Zaine asks.

You tilt your head. "You didn't hear? The assassins got into the dungeons last night too" You say. "They got the fat demon, but Cheska managed to defend herself"
"Could've been set up..." Zaine says. "Are you sure you can trust her?"
"I had my doubts at first too, which is why we got the shackles. But she's kind of family now" You say.

Zaine raises an eyebrow. "Family?" He asks. "What do you mean?"
"Well those two little devils are like my little sisters, and Cheska is their aunt" You say.
"As in... biologically?" He asks.

"Yep" Lance says. "Turns out that her and my wife are sisters. Quite the tale behind it too, considering we all figured that she'd died"
"Huh" He says. "Who would've guessed..."

"Alright kitty, nice and gentle aand..." Meyu slowly reaches up to try and remove Vivi. The kitten watches his hands get closer, waiting until they're just within reach... "YEOW! Okay! Okay!"

"Should uhh... should one of us help Meyu out?" Gerard asks.
"You know I'm no good with kids" Zaine says.

>He's fine

>Give him a hand

>He should just give in

>Other

>>1057917
>He should just give in
Hi Smiley

>>1057917
>>He should just give in
RIP

>>1057917
>>He should just give in

>>1057917
>Give him a hand

We don't have time to be kitten around.

>writing

"He should just give in" You say. "Vivi is very persistent"
"Are you sure it's okay to be throwing children at people like that?" Gerard asks.
You shrug. "Vivi's agile" You say as you turn to Derrick. "So did you tell them about the plan?"

"Yeah" Derrick says.
"Pretty daring operation, if you ask me" Zaine says. "Who else is coming?"
"The four of you, Cheska, Derrick, Me and Emi" You say.

Derrick looks shocked. "E-emi?" He asks. "She's coming?"
"Yeah" You say. "She was fussing about whether I'd be okay, so I said that she'd be welcome to come along"

"A newcomer, huh?" Zaine asks. "She any good?"
"Emi's great" You say.
"Yeah, I can't say how she'll handle under pressure, but she knows her water magic very well and she's a capable healer" Derrick says.
"And she knows snake-fu" You say.
"Eido" Derrick says.
"Yeah, that" You say.

"Sounds like she'll be good to have along" Gerard says. "It'll be nice having someone else to patch people up"
"You know healing magic?" Derrick asks.
"Not much, but enough to patch you up" Gerard says.

You turn and look around at everyone else. Madelaine is now helping Meyu with Vivi... and failing, the devils are still laughing their asses off, Gabby is playing with Coral, and Ilica is... quiet.

>Let the devils know what's happening

>Ask Ilica why she's being quiet

>See what Gabby and Coral are doing

>Retrieve the kitty

>Other

>>1058028
>>Ask Ilica why she's being quiet

>>1058028
>>See what Gabby and Coral are doing

>>1058028
>Ask Ilica why she's being quiet

>writing

"Well, you guys know when we're leaving right?" You ask.
"Sundown" Gerard says. "We'll be ready"

You nod to them, and head over to Ilica.

She seems spaced out, and doesn't notice you approaching.

"Yo" You say, patting her on the back and startling her out of her reverie.
"Huh? Oh, Yuu" Ilica says. "What's up?"
"That's actually what I was going to ask" You say. "You okay? You seem a little spaced..."

"Oh, I was... just thinking about stuff" She says.

You lean in, making no attempt to hide your curiousity.
Ilica rolls her eyes, but she doesn't seem annoyed. "It's just that everyone here is so far ahead of me..." She says. "You, Derrick, Emi... even though we were all together"

"That can't be helped. You just started learning after all" You say.
Ilica pokes your nose. "I don't wanna hear that from you" She says.
You chuckle. "I guess I'm the exception, but then I'm the exception to a lot of things" You say. "Besides, it's not like you aren't trying to catch up at all"

"I guess that's true..." She says, as she stretches out and starts walking back into the castle.
"Where are you going?" You ask.
She turns back. "You've got things under control down here. I'm gonna head back to my room for now. I'll be there to see you guys off though, so don't leave without saying goodbye"

Ilica waves, and then turns and continues walking. You keep watching her for a moment, and then turn back to the others.

That was strange, but still she looked kind of... happy...

>Retrieve the kitten

>Let the devils know what's happening

>See what Gabby and Coral are doing

>Other

>>1058130
>See what Gabby and Coral are doing

Haven't seen much of Coral, lately.

>writing

You smile and shake your head, then head over to where Gabby and Coral are. You see Hella there too, so you wave as you approach.

"Where's Ilica going?" Hella asks.
"Back to her room" You say.
Hella frowns. "Did you say something to piss her off?" She asks.
"No, I don't think so" You say. "Well, she didn't seem mad, at least"
"Well, if she didn't seem mad... Ilica's so bad at hiding her feelings that even you could spot something like that" Hella says, poking her tongue out playfully.

"I'd be offended if it weren't true..." You say.
Hella giggles, as you crouch down to Gabby's level.

"What are you two doing?" You ask.

Coral smiles and zips around your head, before stopping and landing on your hand so you can scratch her head.

"We were playing peekaboo" She says.

You frown. "Is that so..." You say.
Gabby tilts her head. "What's wrong?" She asks.
"N-nothing" You say.
Hella ruffles Gabby's hair. "Yuu's had a bad experience with peekaboo" She says.
"Oh yeah, Munchkin never knows when to quit" Gabriella says.

You chuckle, and raise Coral up to eye level. "Did you have fun today?" You ask.
Coral nods enthusiastically.
"Cool. Do you like your new dress?" You ask.
She floats up and does a little twirl, smiling the whole while. You'll take that as a yes.
"Good, because it's time to rest up" You say. "You and I have some work to do..."

>1/2

You call the little ones over to tell them the news as well. They were so busy laughing at Meyu that they missed that entire conversation...

And speaking of Meyu, he seems like he's come to accept his fate. Vivi looks happy with her new spot, though Meyu doesn't.

"You're leaving again?" Daisy asks.
You nod. "For a bit longer this time" You say. "But on the upside, when I come back, then you guys will be able to go home"

Lily and Daisy look at each other, then back at you.
"I like it here!" Lily says.
"Yeah! We don't have to go home!" Daisy says.
You smile and ruffle their hair. "You aren't the only ones..." You say.

"Do you really have to go?" Daisy asks.
"Not really, there are plenty of other people out there who are willing to fight this war" You say. "But I'm just not happy with sitting back and letting somebody else fight my battles"

Daisy looks down, so you lift her up.

"Tell you what-" You say, offering her your pinkie. "-why don't we make a promise?"
"What kind of promise?" She asks.
"I promise... hmm... I promise that I'll always be around to keep you guys safe, as long as you need me" You say.
"Okay" Daisy says.

...

"Y-you're supposed to shake my pinky..." You say.
"I am? Like... this?" Daisy asks, as she hooks her pinky on yours.
"Exactly" You say.

Coral looks at what you're doing with a curious expression, giving you an idea...

>Leave Coral with them

>Take Coral with you

>other

>>1058289
>>Take Coral with you

>>1058289
>>Take Coral with you

>writing

>>1058289
>"I promise... hmm... I promise that I'll always be around to keep you guys safe, as long as you need me" You say.
That's sounds ominous. I expect bad things from this event.

"Besides, I'll have Coral looking after me" You say.
Coral looks confused.

...

"Don't worry you two, I'll make sure your bro gets home safe" Cheska says, as she claps you on the back.
Neither of them look too happy about that.
"Emi and I will be there too" Derrick says. "So rest easy. We'll keep him safe, even if Emi has to hold him down"
"Please don't" You say.

Daisy smiles. "I'm not worried anymore. Yuu is super strong!" She says.
"Yeah! Go kick their butts!" Lily says, as she punches the air.

You smile at their enthusiasm. This was much easier than you expected, and with it done you're free to do whatever.

Sundown is still a few hours off, but it's not like you have all the time in the world. You feel like you should rest up a bit, and you haven't told Stella what's happening either...

On the other hand, you are a little antsy. Maybe someone here would be up for a bit of sparring.

>Find a sparring partner (Specify if you want)

>See if Stella is awake

>Get some shut eye while you can

>Other

>>1058377
>Other
>Go get some shuteye with Stella
It must be done.

>>1058377
>>See if Stella is awake
>>Get some shut eye while you can

>writing

>>1058377
>Go get some shuteye with Stella
Second.

You put Daisy back down, and stretch yourself out.

"I think for now, I'm gonna check up on Stella and then get some shut eye" You say. "Come on, Cheska"
"Good plan. I could use a nap" She says. "See you guys"

"We'll come and see you before you go, okay?" Daisy asks.
"I look forward to it!" You reply.

You finish saying your goodbyes, and head out of the courtyard with Cheska.

"Sooo... what order were you planning on doing those things in?" She asks.
"Wh-what things?" You ask.
"Checking on Stella and getting some shuteye" She says.
"I'm just going to see how she's feeling..." You say.
"But if she offers to let you join her..." Cheska says with a devious grin.
"W-well... I probably wouldn't refuse..." You say.
Cheska's smile widens, and she leans back and shrugs. "Well, I'll lay down in the room next door" She says. "I think that's Hella's room? She probably won't mind"

You chuckle and scratch your head, causing Cheska to giggle and pat your back.

"Come on, I'm helpin' you out here" She says. "Go get it out of your system so you can focus!"
"Y-yeah..." You say.

>1/2

Cheska heads in to Hella's room, while you walk up to Stella's and knock on the door.

You wait for a few moments, until you head a faint voice from the other side.

"Who is it?" Stella asks.
"It's me-... err, Yuu" You say.
You hear Stella giggle. "Come in" She says.

You open the door and head inside, to see Stella in her nightgown cradling a sleeping Munchkin.

She opens her mouth to speak, letting out a yawn before she can get any words. "What's shakin'?" She asks.
"Well... a lot, actually" You say. "A lot of stuff happened while you were asleep..."

You tell her about the change of plans, and when you're done she looks down.

"Aww... I was hoping we'd all get to hang out tonight..." She says.
"I guess not..." You say.

Stella perks back up. "But that's alright" She says. "You came all this way just to let me know, so I can't go acting all depressed"
You smile, but can't really think of anything to say...
"What are you plans then?" She asks.
"I was actually about to take a nap..." You say.

Stella smiles. "If you want, you can sleep here" She says. "I'm still kinda tired..."

>Okay

>I'm good

>Other

>>1058526
>>Okay

>>1058526
>>Okay

>>1058526
>>Okay

>writing

"Okay" You say. That is at least part of the reason why you came here, so you aren't about to turn her down.

Stella smiles, laying back down with the munchkin and patting the spot next to her.

You step over to the bed, and look down at what you're wearing. "Ah, crap" You say. "I didn't bring my pajamas..."
"That's fine" She says. "Just leave your belt and stuff"
"Alright..." You say, removing your belt and your shoes before approaching the bed.

...

Why do you feel so nervous? It's not like you haven't done this before.
Is it because this time you're actually deciding to do it? Last time it just kind of happened, and you went along with it because it was comfy...

But now that it's an actual conscious decision, you can't seem to calm your nerves...

Stella perks her head up "Is something wrong?" She asks. "You look nervous"
"Eh, heh heh... I am, a little" You say.
Stella smiles and lays her head back down on the pillow. "Oh, don't be nervous" She says. "It's just us"

Yes. Don't be nervous. Great advice, because it's just a switch that you can turn on and off.

...

But what if it were that simple? It is just Stella after all. Well, Stella and Munchkin... and if you could just stop being nervous, you could enjoy this time instead of overthinking everything.

You smile. That sounds like a good plan. Quite possibly the best plan you've ever managed to come up with.

With your doubts dispelled, you crawl into the bed with the bunnies and snuggle up with them.

"There. Better?" She asks.
"Much" You reply.

>1/2

You awaken to the sound of voices, after a very pleasant sleep.

"Wan squish" Munchkin says.
"No, sweetie. Be gentle" Stella says. "Honk's got a long night ahead"
"Okay" Munchkin says. "Little squish"
"No squish" Stella says.
"Okay" Munchkin says.

Something pinches your nose very hard, and you open your eyes.

"Ow" You say.
Munchkin giggles, but Stella doesn't look impressed.
"I said no squishing!" Stella says.
"Was pinch, no squish" Munchkin says.

Stella sighs. "Sorry about that" She says.
"It's fine, I was already awake" You say, as you grab the munchkin and start tickling her stomach.
She smiles. "How'd you sleep?" She asks.
"Very well" You say, peeking past Stella to the window. It's still light out, but it's obviously getting close to sundown.

"Don't worry, we've still got plenty of time" She says. "I figured you'd want to eat and prepare before leaving on such an important mission"
"Thanks" You say.

>Grab some food

>Make sure all your stuff is in order

>Find the others

>Hang here for a while

>Other

>>1058695
>>Make sure all your stuff is in order
>Grab some food
>Find the others

In that order. I also assume that Stella will be with us, so hanging here would be a bit moot.

>>1058695
>>Grab some food

>>1058695
i'll second this >>1058704

>writing

>>1058695
>Grab some food

You look up and ponder what you should do next, all the while still tickling the hell out of the Munchkin.

"I guess I should go make sure everything is in order before I do anything else" You say.
Stella giggles.
"What?" You ask.
"Sorry, you just said that with such a straight face while tickling a child..." She says.

You stop the tickling and lift up the Munchkin so you can hold her when you stand up.

"I've always been good at multitasking" You say as you stand up. "Shall we?"

You offer Stella your free hand to help her up, which she accepts. When she's up, she takes the Munchkin from you.

"Get your stuff back on" She says. "I'll be waiting outside"
"Okay" You say.

Stella heads out, letting you get your boots and belt back on. Once everything is back in order, you head out to meet her.

Stella gives you a smile. "Ready to go?" She asks.

You're about to say yes, but you can't help but feel like you're forgetting something...

>What is it?

>>1058794
...is...is this the moment?

Do we...kiss the girl?

>>1058794
>Knock on Hella's room

>>1058794
I cautiously second this >>1058798

>>1058798
>kiss the girl?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXmLRHnoSAs

File: 1484683153687.gif (839 KB, 500x650)

839 KB GIF

>>1058794
Kiss her you dingus

>writing

Stella tilts her head. "What's wrong? Did you forget something?" She asks.
"Maybe" You say.

You're definitely forgetting something, but you can't think of what it is. Looking at Stella, maybe...

You take a step closer to her and put a hand on her waist, inching yourself closer bit by bit to see what she does.

She smiles.

...

Is that a good thing? You kinda hope it is. You aren't really sure why you're doing this, but it feels right...

Come to think of it, you aren't even sure what you're doing. You get closer... then what? Hopefully you find out when you get close enough, otherwise this will be awkward...

If you had a heart, it would probably be pounding right now. As it is, your blood is definitely flowing quicker than normal.

Just a liiiiittle closer...

You snap back at the sound of shouted profanities from Cheska's room.

"Oh, crap! Cheska" You say. That's what you were forgetting. You must've gotten too far for the shackle, so you quickly head back to her door. "You okay in there?"
"Maybe" She says. "I take it we're leaving?"
"Uhh... yeah" You say.
"Thanks for the head's up..." She says.
"Sorry" You say.

Behind you, Stella giggles.

>1/2

>>1058953
Nice cockblock

>>1058953
I want to be mad. Can't. Trying, but can't.

It takes Cheska a little while to come out. Apparently she knocked over a bunch of stuff when she was woken up by the shackle.

"Seriously, a little warning would've been nice" She says.
"I said sorry..." You say.
"Well if you're really sorry, you can turn around" She says.
You sigh. "Do I have to?"
"Come on" She says. "My legs feel weird thanks to this shitty thing thing..."

"Uhh, Cheska" Stella says. "I understand that you're mad, but could you maybe tone down the language?"
"Oh, yeah. Sorry" She says. "Now come on Yuu. We don't have all day"
"Fine..." You say, as you turn your back to Cheska.
"What are you..." Stella says.

Cheska hops up onto your back. "There" She says.
Stella giggles. "Really?" She asks.
"Yeah. This is payback for that rude awakening" Cheska says. "Now we can go"

"Alright, alright..." You say, as you start walking.

>Ask Stella what she'll be doing while you're gone

>Ask Cheska how she feels about the mission

>Ask Munchkin if she likes living in a castle

>Other

>>1059010
>>Ask Munchkin if she likes living in a castle

Mood's gone. Time to distract ourselves!

>>1059010
>>Ask Stella what she'll be doing while you're gone
>>Ask Cheska how she feels about the mission

>>1059010
>>Ask Cheska how she feels about the mission

>>Ask Munchkin if she likes living in a castle

Dammit

>>1059010
>Ask Stella what she'll be doing while you're gone
>Ask Cheska how she feels about the mission

>>1059010
>>Ask Munchkin if she likes living in a castle

>>1059010
>>Ask Munchkin if she likes living in a castle

>writing

>>1059010

>Ask Cheska how she feels about the mission

You and Stella lock eyes for a moment, and she smiles apologetically.

You shrug and turn your attention to the little one.

"So little Munchkin, how do you like living in a castle so far?" You ask.

Your answer comes in the form of indecipherable babbling. You guess she still hasn't gotten the whole 'speech' thing down yet... still, you play along.

"Uh, huh. I see" You say. "Fascinating"
"Yeah!" Munchkin says.

Cheska giggles. "Did you get a word of that?" She asks.
"Not one" You say, as you ruffle the Munchkin's hair. "But she put in the effort, and that's what counts"
"Do you like kids, Cheska?" Stella asks.
"I dunno. I tend to avoid the little buggers" Cheska says.
"Why?" Stella asks.
"Reasons" Cheska says.

"Ah... I see... I think..." Stella says.
"So what are you planning on doing while we're away?" You ask Stella, in an attempt to steer the conversation.
"I'll probably spend most of my time helping my father" She says. "Once this is all over, the hunters will have to redeploy across Lubars. There's going to be a lot of work to do both before and after that"
"That makes sense" You say.

"What about you?" Stella asks.
"Well I'll be out fighting..." You say.
"No, silly" She says. "I meant after the fighting, once you guys take Leon. What are your plans then?"
"Well first..."

>I want to check out the library there

>Madelaine and I are going to the Howling Tower

>I'll probably come right back here

>Other

>>1059143
>>I want to check out the library there

>>1059143
>>I want to check out the library there

>>1059143
>>I want to check out the library there

>>1059143
>>Other, I want to check out the library there, then I'll probably come back here. And at some point Madelaine and I are going to the Howling Tower

>writing

"I want to check out the library there" You say. "Fran and Kieve both think that I can find more on what I am in there, so it's worth a look"
"I didn't think you were curious about that" Stella says.

You shrug. "If I don't find anything, then it's not a big deal" You say. "But if there is something there, then I'd kinda like to see it"

"So should I delay the coming home party until we get a notice that you're actually coming back?" Stella asks. "I'd hate to throw a big bash after the big victory, only for you to still be in Leon reading..."
You chuckle. "I'll be sure to let you know when I'm coming back" You say.
"You better" Stella says in a scolding tone.

"Uh oh. Honk's in twouble!" Munchkin says.
"Oh, don't worry sweetie. He's only in trouble if he doesn't let me know when he's coming back" Stella says.
"Okay" Munchkin says.

>1/2

"Got everything?" Stella asks as you come out of your room.
"Hat, cloak, belt, mageblade, other mageblade, Coral food..." You say. "I think I have it all"

Stella tilts her head. "I didn't think you could use two of them" She says.
"Still smart to bring it" You say. "Sometimes I get really focused when I'm fighting. I think I could probably use two of these at once when that happens, so I'm bringing it along for that"
"Ah" Stella says.

"And who knows? Maybe one day I'll be good enough to use them both all the time" You say.
"I look forward to seeing that" Stella says. "So, where to now?"

>Dinner

>Find the others

>Other

>>1059284
>>Dinner
Chances are that they'll be chowing down as well.

>>1059284
>Find the others
then
>Dinner

>>1059284
>Dinner

>Find the others

>writing

"How does dinner sound?" You ask.
"Sure... although it's a bit more like breakfast now..." Stella says. "How about you, Munchkin. Do you want some food?"
"Yeah!" Munchkin says.
"To the dining hall then" Stella says.

The 4 of you head down to the dining hall. You figure you'll find some of the others down there as well, but when you arrive...

"It's empty..." You say.
"Everyone else must have eaten while we were asleep" Stella says, as she goes in to take a seat. "Ah well. More room for us!"

You follow Stella in, putting Cheska down so that you can sit.

"So are you two going to be shackled the whole time you're out there?" Stella asks.
"Until the Commander trusts that Cheska won't run" You say.
"Yeah, I'm not too happy about it either" Cheska says.

You turn to Cheska and raise an eyebrow. "What happened to being alright with being chained to 'Mr. Cutie'?" You ask.
"That was before it started to be a pain" She says. "Like, I'm not gonna try and break the thing, but it just takes some getting used to..."
"I'll say" You say. "It'll make fights interesting... since you'll have to stick close to me, but I'm always up in people's faces and you fight from the back line"
"Maybe the Commander can up the range a bit more" She says. "Or I could get up on your shoulders and we can combine into one super fighter!"

...

Stella starts to laugh, giggling at first, but laughing harder with each passing second.

"Okay bun, it wasn't that funny..." Cheska says.
"No, but just... picture it" She says, still laughing. "It would look so silly!"

You and Cheska both lock eyes for a moment, before Stella's laughter proves contagious.

That's all for tonight!

Next thread will be either tomorrow or Thursday, so keep your eyes open.

As always I'll be sticking around for question and suggestion time.

>>1059457
thanks for running

thanks for running.

...we were SO CLOSE.

>>1059457
Great thread, Smiley!

Finished the archive yesterday actually, choose to look into this on a whim and its a nice quest, very rarely is there one this cozy without being boring, very refreshing

Thanks for running Smiley