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New Avalon Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=New%20Avalon
Colors' Sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gq9ZEFrwnYjQpSeuMg1a_7UepedMrQUSEwbrHWntFCo/edit?usp=sharing
Previous Thread: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/1897121/

You are Colors Eriksdotter, painfully injured, and your - well, girlfriend isn't the right word, but Fancy is doin' somethin' odd and you hope your guess as to why is accurate, 'cause otherwise this is just tacky.

"I, um. I didn't need to know that, about you and her," you point out, gently. "Not unless you're...you know, a thing."

"But...we've...been?" Fancy asks, slowly. "I'm supposed to be honest."

Praise be, it's what you thought it was.
>>
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>>1934680
"You were already, Fancy. You've said we're not a thing, but you might like it if we were. You upheld your end of the oath; you've been honest about your feelings and intentions." You pause, looking for words. "Um. Have you ever...fuck. You ever seen one of those women with the bob haircut arguing at the store about coupons?"

Fancy snorts, eyes bright with laughter. "Soccer moms?"

"I guess? The Wyrd can be like that. What you meant is nowhere near as important as what you said. I don't have to know about your relationship with anyone else unless it's causing a change in, well...us. Whatever we are or want to be. Alright? You certainly don't have to throw anyone out of your home for me."

"Oh, that was just...me trying not to make you uncomfortable," the dancer says, embarrassed. "You always seemed shy with new people..."

You give Fancy a rueful grin and a quick hug. "Let's go scare your friend with my face, huh?"

Fancy lets you in, and Rita - a middle-aged Hispanic woman, with her dark hair in a tight bun and her sleeves pinned up to keep them away from the drawings on the table - startles first when she sees you and then again when she realizes something is wrong with your face. You catch a murmured 'Sweet Jesus' from her.

"Rita, this is Colors, a...friend," Fancy introduces. "Colors, this is Rita, our costumer and choreographer."

"Both?" you ask.

"Budget cuts," the two of them say at the same time.

Rita gets up from her seat on Fancy's couch and cautiously offers her hand out. You shake it, delicately, and raise her a shallow bow. "My pleasure to meet you. I, um. I'm a fan of your work," you offer.

"It pays the bills." Rita keeps her eyes on yours; slowly, she takes her hand back. "How did you get to know Fancy?"

"She stayed after a few shows," Fancy offers, in a tone with too much steel beneath to be as breezy as she's trying to make it sound. "Colors is my friend, Rita."

Rita clears her throat and starts scooping up her papers.

> Wait, wait, I wasn't trying to interrupt!
> Just let it happen; she's clearly got some kinda problem
> Quickly, invite the two of them somewhere (where?)
> Write-in?
>>
> Just let it happen; she's clearly got some kinda problem
>>
>>1934778
>> Just let it happen; she's clearly got some kinda problem
heyo vox
>>
>>1934778
> Just let it happen; she's clearly got some kinda problem
>>
>>1934778
>Wait, wait, I wasn't trying to interrupt!
>>
>>1934778
>Wait, wait, I wasn't trying to interrupt!
>>
>>1934778
>> Wait, wait, I wasn't trying to interrupt!
>>
>>1934778
>Just let it happen; she's clearly got some kinda problem.
Can't fix everyone we meet, not on such short notice.

Good to be back.
>>
>>1934778
>> Just let it happen; she's clearly got some kinda problem

Yeah, too tired to deal with someone else's shit right now.
>>
Called, writing.
>>
>>1936079
Welcome back, Vox. Hope things are calmer for you.
>>
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>>1934778
Briefly, the urge to protest flickers past your thoughts, but you let it go. Clearly Rita has an issue with your presence, and you've got enough of your own bullshit to worry about right now before you start taking on someone else's.

Well. Any more of other people's, anyway.

"We can pick this up back at the Theatre with the rest of the cast," Rita announces. "Have fun doing...whatever you're doing."

"Hanging out?" Fancy's voice has a note of reproach in it.

"With swords. Right." Rita breezes out of the apartment; the door shuts, harshly, behind her.

"...What just happened?" you ask.

"I'm not sure," Fancy answers, slowly. "But I'll find out. I'm sorry for that, Colors."

You shrug and look around. Fancy's place has a warm feeling to it; lots of soft colors, open curtains to let in the light, and a certain deliberate spaciousness in the decoration that feels inviting. The rabbit you made for her gleams on the top shelf of a bookshelf.

"I'm glad you're okay," Fancy says after a moment; she tidies away the coffee cup Rita was using and takes a sip out of her own. "...You are okay, right?"

"I've had worse. And I tend to heal...pretty." You frown around the last word, uncomfortable with it. "It takes a lot to scar me."

"I wasn't worried about that."

"I worry about that every day," you admit, in a soft, distant tone, before you come back to yourself. "You, um. May need to expect long absences without contact. Travel in the Hedge, in the place on the other side of the mirrors, gets weird when you lose sight of the mortal world. Time gets...fluid."

"Lose sight?" Fancy asks, tilting her head.

"Literally lose sight. The Hedge is bad at ideas like direction and distance, but there's a part of it 'near' this world, and a part of it 'near' the Other Place, and when you're near here, time stays more or less okay," you explain. "Past that, you slip into realms where minutes and hours don't mean what they're supposed to. Sometimes you're gone for an hour and come back a week later. Sometimes you come back and see yourself enter the Hedge. It's part of why I was so worried about you."

The dancer nods and finishes her coffee. "You need a cup?"

"I..."

> Would love one. I honestly just need to hang out and unwind.
> Was actually looking to take you to the Arcade and meet my friends, assuming they'd like to show up
> Would like to ask about dance lessons
> Write-in?
>>
>>1936107
A week off to handle my shit was helpful, yeah. Just gotta get in the swing and stay in it.
>>
>>1936324
>Would love one. I honestly just need to hang out and unwind.

I'm not adverse to dance lessons either but some quiet seems nice.
>>
>>1936324
>Would love one. I honestly just need to hang out and unwind.
>>
>>1936324
> Would love one. I honestly just need to hang out and unwind.
>Ask if she would be interested in meeting our Motley as well. Assuming they would like to.
>>
>>1936324
> Was actually looking to take you to the Arcade and meet my friends, assuming they'd like to show up
>>
>>1936324
> Stay for a cup of coffee
> Was actually looking to take you to the Arcade and meet my friends, assuming they'd like to show up
>>
>>1936324
>> Would love one. I honestly just need to hang out and unwind.
> Was actually looking to take you to the Arcade and meet my friends, assuming they'd like to show up
>>
Well that shift was a shitshow. I'll update in the morning; you have my apologies.
>>
>>1939398
I will take your apologies.
>>
>>1939662
And eat it.
>>
>>1939398
Well that didn't happen.

The battle plan as it stands: I'm going to go to work, pound back caffeine and medicine to fight off this developing illness, and come home to update. In the meantime I'm open for Q&A by phone. This shift is either going to be slammed or dead depending on how folks react to the game that's on, so, y'know, leave your Qs and I'll get to 'em as I can.
>>
>>1940175
If you dont get to call in sick at least one day your boss is a gigantic asshole, and i would like to have a word with him
>>
>>1940258
> Assuming he gets paid sick days


Vox lives in the greatest nation in the world.
>>
Looks like coffee, then arcade, is our winner. Writing.
>>
>>1942303
> Coffee wins in a Vox quest
I'm shocked to find gambling here.
>>
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>>1936324
"I'd love a cup," you agree. "Though I was thinking we could hit the Arcade and, if they're down for it, you could meet the rest of my friends. After coffee."

"We can walk with coffee," Fancy points out.

"I've been drinking already today and the conversations I've had justify it."

"Coffee first." Fancy pours two cups and brings out powdered creamer (why) and a bowl of sugar (better); you spoon some sugar into yours and stir it in vigorously. A sip reveals that it's a bit on the weak side, but at least it ain't decaf. You sit, and Fancy gets back in her own chair.

"Lemme send the text," you tell her. You let the others know you'll be at Rimshot in forty minutes or so, with Fancy, and invite them to join you. To your mild surprise, all three of them say they'll be there; Forum goes so far as to thank you for the invite.

"So...the arcade?" Fancy asks.

"The Rook owns it," you explain. "He invited us there a little while ago, when we had to plan the next stage of the whole...thing. Have you been?"

"I haven't," Fancy admits. She gives you a grin that's all mischief. "Think it's too on-point if I play the dance machines?"

You snort. "Maybe. Just...don't make sudden movements in their presence."

"I remember." Fancy stirs her coffee and gestures at your hip with the cup. "Is it rude if I ask how you got the sword?"

You look down, a little surprised, at the sheathed blade. "Bifrost? I...I don't remember. I came out of the Hedge with my sword. I know I didn't have Bifrost when I was mortal..."

"I didn't mean to -"

"It's fine," you interrupt, shaking your head. "It's fine, I just lost in...in the gaps, sometimes. I'm not always sure I want to know what happened."

Fancy finishes her cup and sets it on the coffee table; you follow suit, and the two of you get up to go. "I'm driving," your friend announces.

You take a deep breath and nod. Three minutes later, you're immediately regretting not choosing to walk.

"Sorry," Fancy mutters, when she finally parks. "I - you seemed okay, or almost okay, last time."

"It's fine," you croak.

"You don't seem fine, Colors."

"I'm a big girl, I could have said no." You unbuckle, open the door, and spill out of Fancy's car onto blessed terra firma. Fancy gets out a little more gingerly, looking keenly apologetic, but not even the sustained guilt of watching you put as much distance between you and the car as possible can quite distract her from the glittering allure of Rimshot Arcade and its flashing lights, electronic sounds, and the wafting smell of greasy arcade food.
>>
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>>1943202
There isn't a word for a seven-foot troll laying in wait except 'lurking', so Forum is lurking just inside the front entrance, tapping away at something on his phone. He's still wincing a little whenever he moves - boy took two doses of getting the shit kicked out of him, same as you - but he offers Fancy a hand to shake with a welcoming smile, and she takes it.

"Forum Troll, and you must be Fancy. Colors didn't mention you were -"

"Mortal?" Fancy interrupts, eyebrow raised.

"See, you're saying that like it doesn't change what we can and can't talk about, or how, and it does," Forum points out. "So yeah, mortal. Vickie and the Rook are back on that Soul Caliber cabinet, I told 'em I'd wait for you."

"I appreciate it, Forum. Was there a battle plan or something...?"

"I mean, no? But there could be."

"Hey, um," Fancy cuts in. "I don't mean to be rude but...why is he 'the' Rook?"

You and Forum share a glance and realize, mutually, that neither of you know.

"Names are one of those things not to ask too much about?" your friend continues, carefully.

"Pretty much," Forum agrees.

> Get everyone together. You need a real meal, people need to meet, and you wanna float the whole motley thing
> Play some with Fancy. She's never been!
> Ask Forum why he chose to come
> Write-in?

I'm strung out on exhaustion and barely managed to get this out. Y'all have my apologies. Again.
>>
>>1943213
>> Ask Forum why he chose to come
> Play some with Fancy. She's never been!
>>
>>1943213
> Ask Forum why he chose to come
>Thanks by the way.
> Play some with Fancy. She's never been!
>Forum too.
>>
>>1943213
>Play some with Fancy. She's never been!
>>
>>1943213
>Play some with Fancy. She's never been!
>Write-in?
>Maybe check how Vickie has improved at fighting games.
Kinda want to ask Forum, but we'll have some private talk later so it's fine for now.
>>
>>1943213
>> Ask Forum why he chose to come
>>
>>1943213
>I'm strung out on exhaustion...
Pixel, just put the quest on ice. Dont make me come over there and slap you.
>>
>Get everyone together
>>
>>1943699
Who in fuck is Pixel?

Also called, writing.
>>
>>1943933
I lied. At least it's not anything bad, just real life stuff sideswiping me unexpectedly into Doing Other Things. Vote re-opened.

One day I'll update regularly again. One day.
>>
>>1943213
> Play some with Fancy. She's never been!

Let's introduce her one at a time to people so she doesn't get overwhelmed.

Also damn Forum, not pulling any punches
>>
>>1943933
Sorry for the Freudian slip, That's the QM from Xcom quest
>>
>>1944523
Remember, there are three names that work for Vox besides the given name; Coffee Slut, Lich, and That Guy Who Worked With Carnies.

Do not ask about the third name. Lots of repressed memories.
>>
>>1944861
>>1944523
What's with the namefagging?
>>
>>1944935
Kong at least is a drawfriend of Vox
>>
>>1945430
Oh.

> That always goes well.

What is Vox going to do if he's a Fancyfag while his other friend OTPs Colours and Vicky?

Well at least he makes art for the quest.
>>
>>1945454
Tally the votes as I've always done.
>>
>>1945454
Abide by the votes. That's what he always does regardless of his friends, writefags, drawfags, whatever.

Vox is nothing if not impartial.
>>
>>1945471
>>1945467
I meant fallout IRL lol. I have no worries about you running the quest.
>>
>>1945485
GK and the Celt are adults. They know how this game is played.

this shift is a horror show, anyone have Q&A to distract me from it?
>>
>>1945517
What happens when a Changeling and a human have a kid? Is there magic for lesbians to get preggers?

What topics do we avoid discussing around the Mortals?
>>
>>1945517
Do true Fae know that they are just characters in a quest thread? Is this the reason that they are crazy?

Did somebody actually tear down the masque or did the Wyrd just get bored and decide it was time for a change?

Now that changelings are common knowledge did any other supernaturals take the opportunity to step out into the light? Mages, vampires, were wolves, ect...
>>
>>1945674
> Mage

Not ready for this level of fucking crunch

> Werewolf

Not read for this degeneracy of wolf fucking.

> Vampire

Not ready for this level of antagonism

Be careful what White Wolf games you play.

Werewolf was by far the worst fan base. Mage the worst system. Vampire is kind of hit and miss but actually it might work on /qst/ where players can't be assholes to each other in-game.

Then again my experiences are all from the 90s. Maybe it has changed.
>>
>>1945706
In new WoD mage's systems are a looooot better, Vampire is also pretty great too. Werewolf still gets the furries, but is a fun system
>>
>>1945485

Vox is aware that threatening him bodily harm is how I express love and affection. We've been friends, partners, and consultants for each other a long time and I've only actually followed through on murdering him maybe twice, tops.
>>
>>1944861
Gentleman Kong and

>>1946165

The Celt is it? For some reason remembering you are a lesbian makes it super appropriate that you're Gay-Lick.

And Gentleman Kong makes me think of one of pic related with a moustache. Like a Mr. Potatohead.

This is what you get for having names! Grade school teasing!

Huehuehuehue
>>
>>1945517
What happens if you try to make a Wyld garden in the real world? Take some seeds here, there, and tend the garden like a mortal garden?

Are there things that suppress the Wyrd or it's effects, ala antimagic fields or their analogues?
>>
>>1945529
The child of a Lost and a mortal is mortal. They can be a little moonstruck, and some have the Sight, but they're mortal.

There's no canonical magic to create the biological child of two women, but odder pacts have been struck. One should consider the price, though.

I'll circle back to what we don't tell the mortals later.

>>1945674
What the Fae know and think they know are two very different bodies of knowledge, but neither are the source of their inhuman madness.

No other body of supernatural beings has emerged.

Back on the clock, see y'all later.
>>
>>1946044
I always had fun with V:tM. But a lot of people couldn't handle the conflict well. Like how to do it without being an asshole.

New mage isn't torture, though? Hrm. Have to look into it.


>>1946165

That's kind of fucked up yo.
>>
>>1946229

I make sure to get my gay Gaelic licks in as often as possible. Call me a lesbian dinosaur, cause I lickalottapuss. Etc. Etc. If there's one thing gay folk love it's puns, though the obvious cunning linguist one is below even me.
>>
>>1946474
You say no other supernaturals have emerged? Doesn't mean they aren't present though.
>>
>>1946480
> The cunning linguist is "below me"

Really now.
>>
>>1946480
Personally I try to stay away from Lesbian communities. I have a truck, you see, and there's only so many times I'm willing to help someone move in with their new GF at the end of the month and then back out three months later.
>>
>>1946493

... Well played.

>>1946512

RIP my ribs, I'm dying. It would be less funny if it weren't absolutely true.
>>
>>1946629
I mean at least you're on the V-train to pound town. Vicky. I mean Vicky.

Who apparently we could totally bang without it bothering Fancy since she's hooking up. Yeah. Totes sure she would be fine with that. It's only logical.
>>
>>1944935
There's been a lot of namefagging and attention seeking in this quest and you single me out ? While I'd love to hear your explanation for that let's just keep it civil.

If I forget to turn off my name after crossboarding, or feel the need to include it in a personal comment aimed at Vox only, just ignore it.
>>
>>1947132
Well ibreally only saw Vox's friend do it once. And she stopped.

So I was curious if you were another of his friends who was new to 4chan.

Chill brah.

I even tagged the other guy who namefagged because I didn't recognize him either. Literally did not single you out.
>>
>>1947132
Might as well change your name to Mount Kali though. Not very civil to call other people doing the same as "attention seeking" either.
>>
SEEKING ATTENTION, YOU ARE? SEEKING ATTENTION, AM I.
.... LETS DATE.
>>
>>1947185
The human condition. Just want to be noticed before you die.
>>
>>1945529
> What topics do we avoid discussing around the Mortals?

Like many things it depends on who you ask, but in general you want to avoid discussing Freehold politics (to the extent that you can, considering that Freeholds are like unto small towns with everyone being in everyone else's fuckin' business), the strengths and weaknesses of the Lost, and the locations and uses of Hedge Gates. Winter advises remaining even more secretive, while Summer is pushing for a more permissive stance under the logic that a more informed populace can better protect itself.

>>1945674
> Did somebody actually tear down the masque or did the Wyrd just get bored and decide it was time for a change?

Ain't this just the million dollar question on everyone's mind?

> What happens if you try to make a Wyld garden in the real world? Take some seeds here, there, and tend the garden like a mortal garden?

Nothing too exciting, sad to say. Hedge plants don't grow well, or at all mostly, in the mortal world. The reverse is...somewhat true. Long-term exposure to the Hedge warps mundane plants into something else.

> Are there things that suppress the Wyrd or it's effects, ala antimagic fields or their analogues?

Iron

>>1947085
Maybe. You could always, you know, talk to her about it. You've even got a social excuse given the earlier faux pas with Rita.

>>1947132
>>1947152
>>1947165
>>1947185
>>1947207
Guys, we can't all be on drugs. 's my turn to be chemically impaired.
>>
>>1947280
Yeah let's have that talk . . . After tonight. Not make things weird. It's like, I don't think we really want to but we do want to, and we have had problems with that in the past. But if Fancy is having booty calls it would definitely be less stress just to know what was and wasn't on the table for this.
>>
>>1947280
I'm always on drugs, but that's because I like breathing.
>>
>>1947474
hi xs
>>
>>1947474
Weird. I'm also on drugs because I don't.
>>
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>>1943213
"This place is huge," Fancy says; she steps in further to get a better look around at the flashing lights and the strobe of the screens. "I thought arcades were...you know. Small. Local."

"They are," Forum agrees; he chuckles, ruefully. "And most of 'em are dead as doornails. They got linked to drugs and delinquency, which, you know, maybe they were and maybe they weren't, but it was the late eighties, early nineties? Between that, the rise of home videogame consoles, and a changing economy, they got swept under. Rimshot here was a tiny thing when the Rook got his hands on it. Now it's six floors of...this." The troll gestures expansively. "And I'm betting you two need quarters. Changer's this-a-way."

"I definitely need quarters," Fancy says; the dancer heads straight for the station that Forum indicated, and by unspoken agreement the two of you fall in behind her.

"I'm surprised you came," you tell him, sotto voce.

Forum scoffs, equally quiet. "What, just because I'm Winter I have to be standoffish and unsociable?"

"I mean, by definition..."

"We need better PR people," the troll laments. "If we weren't allowed to have friends, loved ones, or desires, we'd've nailed the Lords Unbidden to a wall and eaten their guts centuries ago. We're just supposed to be...you know. Professional? Stoic? Stoic might be a better word. Don't go throwing your shit around in public, don't be provoking people, all that sorta thing. Best fights are the ones you don't have, is the deal."

You rub your face. "I guess I just don't get why someone would live that way."

"If you can respect it, you don't gotta get it. If you can't, well, I guess we got problems." Your Ogre friend shrugs with an odd, rippling motion. "Ever since the whole shit went down I've been just the tiniest bit short on people willing to lend me a hand. Autumn's miffed that I left, even if I still got rights from doin' my job, and I'm still too hot for most Winter folks to touch, too public in a bad way. So they're playin' the waiting game, seeing if I can be a professional, y'know, and in the meantime I'm shut out. Got so bad I asked the boss to take pity on me, and surprise of all surprises, he did."

"That's why you were on the mission," you say, and Forum nods.

"Pretty win-win for Misery too. Test his new boy out, risk minimal resources on a dangerous operation, offer a good-faith contribution. You didn't get to see me on my A-game, though...gonna be honest," Forum sighs, "my A-game ain't much hotter. I'm the youngblood of our little club."

"There's worse things to be." You clap Forum on his rubbery shoulder and get a grateful grin from him. "You already feed the machine?"

"Nah, figured I'd keep up on my shit while I was waiting."

You've seen change machines before (you try growing up in Philly and owning your own washing machine), but Rimshot Arcade's are the first you've seen that say they'll take hundred dollar bills.
>>
>>1948113
> Autumn's miffed that I left, even if I still got rights from doin' my job,

Is it going to hurt his rep if he hangs with a forsworn?
>>
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>>1948113
You drop a buck on a novelty bag ('RIMSHOT ARCADE' is printed on it in pixelated letters) to hold your quarters and get a generous supply to fill it with; you tie the coins to your belt while Fancy looks around in curious wonder.

"We could always go for those dance machines," you suggest, coyly.

"Over that-a-way they've got one where you dance to fight ninjas an' shit," Forum adds.

Fancy is more than down for ninjas. Forum hangs back, tapping away on his phone, though either he's really good at reading out of his periph or he's not actually doing anything, since he keeps his eyes on the game with an interested expression.

After four rounds, you are keenly aware that waltz lessons and combat training are not a substitute for actually being able to dance. Fancy giggles breathlessly while she staggers off the machine.

"What were you two talking about?" she asks, once she finds her breath.

"Politics," Forum answers, frankly. "You a ballet dancer?"

"How'd you guess?" you and Fancy ask at the same time.

"I'd like to give you some arcane bullshit answer, but truth be told I took lessons when I was a kid," Forum admits. "Went through this whole phase where I was buying Barbies with my allowance and trying out 'girly' stuff, mostly because people said I couldn't. Didn't keep the Barbies, but the dancing paid off later, lemme tell ya."

Fancy grins. "Lightgun shooter?"

"...Lightgun?" you ask, cautiously.

"Not an actual gun," Forum clarifies.

Holy shit, it's Duck Hunt but with zombies! Sometime between realizing you've played something like this before and Forum pleading an aching wrist from his place at the Player Three slot (he did jack some people but-fuckin'-good back there) you've managed to sink an hour and a half into zombie guts.

Fancy's still looking around, eager to do something else, to see and do more.

> Encourage Fancy to try a racing game so you can talk to Forum about keeping the Motley together in private
> Get everyone together; you've kept your friends waiting
> Just cut loose. If Vickie and the Rook tire of each other's company they'll find you
> Write-in?
>>
>>1948115
Yeah. He doesn't have the clout or rep that Ramona and Natalia do (they can just go "Royalty" and at that point you more or less have to piss off), but as long as he keeps his own Pledges there's not much anyone can do but accuse him of poor judgement.
>>
>>1948131
> Tell Fancy you have to talk with Forum about some non-metal stuff first, but that afterbthat you want to introduce her to the Motley

Honesty yo. Not sure why we need to hide that we can't share all our stuff with Fancy. But if we tell her that we figured needing an excuse to talk to Forum was a good excuse to invite her out and introduce her to our friends it should be fine.

We're not using her to handle our fae problems, we're using them as an excuse to spend more time with her.

> Gotta have another secret meeting.

> Cool! I'll call Fancy up for a date night!

> . . . . You know, maybe one of us has a new girlfriend they'd like to bring along sometimes or something else instead of you always bringing yours. People Are going to think we're into something weird with her.

> Oh I'm so happy for you! When did you get a new GF?

> . . . . Just call Fancy while I go over here to die alone.

Or not. But we shouldn't ditch her secretly. Just be honest that we have a private matter to discuss quickly.
>>
>>1948131
>> Just cut loose. If Vickie and the Rook tire of each other's company they'll find you
>>
>>1948131
>Encourage Fancy to try a racing game so you can talk to Forum about keeping the Motley together in private

Gotta try racing at least once, and it gives us time to talk to Forum, if this is private enough for that talk he wanted, that's also fine.
>>
>>1948131
> Get everyone together; you've kept your friends waiting

Y'all are rude.
>>
>>1948131
> Tell Fancy you have to talk with Forum about some non-metal stuff first, but that after that you want to introduce her to the Motley.

not really sure what to do, feel like we kind of hung ourselves here.
>>
>>1948131

>>1948486 Sounds like a plan.
>>
>>1948539
yeah, this
>>
>>1948131
changing >>1948481
to
> Get everyone together; you've kept your friends waiting

waited too long to delete
>>
And then Vox got shanghaied into an eleven hour shift.

Update is unlikely tonight.
>>
>>1948131
>Get everyone together; you've kept your friends waiting
I wonder if there's a multiplayer game.
>>
>>1945430
I fuggin' wish. I haven't put pencil to paper in months. Kinda depressing, that. NEED MORE RUM!

>>1949948
Good god...Da fug mang? We work to live, we don't live to work.

Also, DEMAND DELICIOUS AHT SO I MIGHT BREAK MY DRY SPELL!

Seriously though, whatever you want, my sexy unliving liege. I'm down for /anything/.
>>
>>1950162
Not Vox, buuut can I request Colors fighting an arcade full of like... demon arcade machines?
>>
>>1950162
I'd love to see you take a crack at the Rook.

I can't ask anyone to take on Colors, she's a bitch to draw
>>
>>1947165
>Mount Kali
I dont get the reference. Maybe there was a better term then "attenton seeking", but English is not my first language.
>>1947207 Said it better than me.
>>
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>>1951271
>I dont get the reference.
I didn't either.
>>
>>1950162
You guys talk about wanting to bone Vox like, a LOT. Is he the alpha in your group?
>>
>>1951271
> MFW both those posts are me.

I was being facetious in my second post. It's like fancy sarcasm that's a little dark.

Nobody will ever truly know you.

All you will ever see is your own reflection in others actions, imposing what you believe their thoughts to be upon their observable actions.

And when you die, it will be alone and everyone will remember a person who was similar to you but nobody will remember the unique self that is your identity. Because nobody but you ever experienced it.

Tears in the rain motherfucker.
>>
>>1950162
Vicky/Colours awkward blushing handholding with Vicky having a thought bubble saying "Oh gods, is that her blushing too? I can't tell."

Changeling problems yo.

>>1951412
Sucking the QMs cock is tradition.
>>
>>1951412
Well, he is a skeleton.
>>
>>1951412
Your life will not be improved by learning why this happened.

Also called, writing.
>>
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>>1948131
You take a look at the eager wonder on Fancy's face and decide you can kill two birds with one stone; you've seen the racers around the place. "Hey, Fancy - I needed to talk to Forum about something before I see everyone else. Could be a good time to try one of those driving games?"

"But we could - right, you don't drive," Fancy remembers, soberly. "Yeah, actually, that sounds like fun, but which one? There's so many of...of everything!"

"They've got a space combat sim, next floor up," Forum proposes. "This way, c'mon."

The Rook knows his audience; escalators take the three of you upstairs. The promised space combat sim (the side reads JEDI STARFIGHTER but the art has a conspicuous absence of Luke Skywalker that you'll have to ask about later) is waiting, and Fancy feeds the machine with a curious look before she gets to grips with the controls.

"Has she not been in an arcade before?" Forum asks.

"Maybe not," you muse. "She's from Atlanta and traveled the country with dancers. This is...you know, a little off-brand for her."

"Makes sense, I guess. So, what's the deal here?"

"Wanted your perspective on keeping the Motley together," you say, straight-up. "Raven thinks the Rook is going to go after the throne, or at least after Rachael Reeds's life. He lost that fight one time already, and...I dunno. I dunno how I feel about him and her, or how that relates to Vickie."

Forum blows out a long breath, locks his phone screen, and tucks it into his pocket. The Troll folds his arms and frowns, thoughtfully. "Hell. I'd be mad too, someone tore my arm off, but it's not like he didn't provoke her. Could push for the Motley to be apolitical but, y'know, good luck with that one. And even if that worked, he's pissed at her for the whole 'arm' thing."

"You see why I have a problem."

"Oh yeah." Forum paces over to a Whack-a-Mole cabinet and leans against the side of it; a gaggle of kids goes running past intent on reaching the escalator. "If we throw in with him we gotta be on his side, or else get him to agree that he's gotta drop his shit. So I guess I gotta ask, are you on his side? If it comes down to it and the Rook really can't live his life with Rachael Reeds in it, you gonna be there to take her down?"

> The Rook has been...more complicated, than his reputation suggests. I believe he's been wronged (support the Rook)
> He made a play and paid up for it. He needs to drop it (do not support the Rook)
> Write-in?
>>
And now, yet more Gainful Employment. Votes remain open.

Questions, comments, discussion, feedback, and criticisms remain welcome and appreciated.

Thank you all for reading and participating!
>>
>>1951630
> Your life will not be improved by learning why this happened.

Well now I'm curious too. That and the Carnies. You guys having crazy carnival clown orgies?
>>
>>1951814
> Write-in?

He needs the chance to have his say and explain why it needs to be done. If it's just revenge, then he needs to drop it.

If he truly believes it's necessary though, then I believe he'll do what's best for the Courts. Rachel is a power, and power is something always badly needed for protection against the Enemy. But a sword that cuts both ways is a danger.

So I want us to have a better understanding of just how dangerous Rachel is the take out. Not just to us, but to the safety of the Courts. I'd also like to make that call based on opinions from people other than just the Rook's. He might believe that she needs to be taken out, but he might not be correct. Or his personal feelings might block his views of alternative measures.
>>
>>1951814
We should also maybe explain Motleys to Fancy in general later so she understands our relationship with them and between fae in general a bit better.
>>
>>1951814
this >>1952330
and >>1952330
both seem pretty good
>>
>>1951814
> Write-in?
> While I believe the Rook has suffered, I also believe that he needs to find a new goal to pursue, lest vengeance consume him.

Tentative support, I guess? King Raven was right about the Rook, of course, but I honestly think that becoming King won't give him the pride or purpose that he's searching for.

>>1952293
The memery, sex and coffee jokes, all stem from the glorious ride of fun and feels that was DLQ.

Lots of things were revealed during the telling of that story, including some of Vox's family and work stories (like the one about the monopoly ledger and the uncle that lost a finger).

>>1951412
I'm not experienced in necrophilia, but I would totally invade his dungeon if ya know what I mean.

>>1950421
Sounds fun. Plus, Colors gets to be the knight in shining armor for Fancy.

>>1950683
Challenge accepted! But I must ask; with or without his missing bits?

Also, what kind of hair style and face structure does Colors have? Y'know, shoulder length with an almond-shaped face and pointed nose, etc.

>>1951511
Absolutely adorable.
>>
>>1952817
> Revealing personal info on 4chan

I'm glad that ended well, actually.

Well. Hopefully people don't go full Rock and Morty / Undertale with it.
>>
>>1951814
>Write-in?
>He needs the chance to have his say and explain why it needs to be done. If it's just revenge, then he needs to drop it.
>If he truly believes it's necessary though, then I believe he'll do what's best for the Courts. Rachel is a power, and power is something always badly needed for protection against the Enemy. But a sword that cuts both ways is a danger.

Supporting.

>>1952330
Just remember there is a limit to what we can explain.
>>
>>1952817
>I'm not experienced in necrophilia
It's not nearly as fun as it sounds.
>>
>>1952940
Yep and that should be part of the explanation. That we have obligations due to being part of the Court that we won't be able to share with her. We'll try to, but that is part of having her be mortal and us . . . Not. It's not an insurmountable obstacle, but still a challenge that we have to deal with.
>>
>>1952959
Compare it with a cop not sharing intimate information about violent crimes, drug smuggling, etc.

Colors has a job. Sometimes it can be incredibly dangerous. Other times, it can be mundane as fuck. But its still a job.
>>
>>1952293
I was asked to medically supervise a beating on the basis that Boy Scouts know first aid. I've seen some shit.

>>1952817
The Rook as he stands would be best, I think. It's not like you've met the bits-enabled version in this Quest.
>>
>>1951814
>> He made a play and paid up for it. He needs to drop it (do not support the Rook)
>>
>>1953146
Everything about your statement was wrong in some way.

Curiosity sated. What was Carnie sex like?
>>
This is probably shit posting, but.

The Wyrd does not see people. It sees characters, and trys to make them fit into a narrative.

True victory only comes by defying the path laid out before you.

Think about this in context with rooks life.
>>
>>1952889
>> Revealing personal info on 4chan
This isnt /b. Don't lump all boards in with it.
>>
>>1951814
Supporting >>1952319 , >>1952940
>>
>>1951814
>> Write-in?
>Either way, even with our help, he cant just kill Rachel and her cult. He needs to drop it, or do the really crazy stuff all by himself, like hiring privateers to take her back to her Keeper.
>>
>>1954251
I sincerely doubt Colors would EVER advocate that course of action.
>>
>>1954413
EVER? Like... the Philly days? Might've then.
>>
>>1954417
Even then. Kill them, torture them, maim them, drop them in a river wrapped in bartbed wire and stuck in cement? Sure. Return them to their Keeper? No.
>>
It occurs to me the problem isn't neccesarily with the Rook trying to re-try his claim and/or revenge - it's the expected outcome to another freehold member as part of that.
If we can get the Rook to agree to win in a way that doesn't leave Rachel in multiple pieces or a borken husk of a person that'd be 'jyst' political and less murdery and I think it'd be easier to support.
>>
>>1951814
>> The Rook has been...more complicated, than his reputation suggests. I believe he's been wronged...
>> Write-in?
> But I'm not willing to be a party to anything that would hurt Vickie, or the Freehold. I'll support his revenge on Rachel Reeds for what she did to him, to the extent that Vickie's on board. I won't support his ambitions for the throne, but I won't directly oppose them, either.

Like the given option says, he's more complicated than that. I think a nuanced approach is called for.
>>
>>1954460

>>Supporting this write-in.

Dat nuance. Colours is the advocate for Spring here. We want to mediate so that the Rook and Vickie can hopefully both get their desires, and Forum and us can too.
>>
I'm gonna call and write in about an hour; I need to handle some Life Stuff.
>>
>>1954619
See you tomorrow!
>>
Called, tallying, writing.
>>
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>>1951814
"I've heard from a lot of people about the Rook and Rachael, but, y'know, I haven't heard from the Rook," you say, after a moment. "And that's something I want answers for. If we're going to be allies, or even friends, we owe him that much."

Forum nods, but doesn't interrupt.

"I honestly think the Rook is going to try and do what he sees as best for the Freehold. If this is about more than revenge, then yeah...let's have his back. If it's not, he needs to get over his shit. Rachael's powerful, and that's great when we're talking about dealing with the Gentry, but if she's a threat to the Freehold..." you sigh. "We need to know more. Which means we need to talk this out. Which means further that instead of this being the celebration I wanted it to be, we get to be depressed."

"What if I buy shots after?" Forum offers.

"...I am interested in shots, but that's maybe not the move. We'll figure it out."

Fancy slides out of the starfighter game with a somewhat dizzy expression. "That was new," she says, shaking her head off. "What's next?"

"Depression," you say, with a sigh. "And then maybe more fun?"

"Depression?" the dancer asks, with a frown. "Why?"

"Mainly because the reward for hard work done well is more hard work," Forum answers. "Lemme tell you something: Colors ain't exactly flush with friends and loved ones in this town. Neither am I. Her friend Vickie? Definite lack of friends and loved ones. The Rook has enemies, but not friends or loved ones. If you're pickin' up what I'm puttin' down, then you'll get what I mean when I say we're trying to figure out if we can all be friends."

"Yeah," Fancy murmurs. "I get it. Should I -"

"Not yet. You still need to meet everyone," you soothe. "C'mon. They're probably still playing Soul Calibur."

Everyone takes the escalator down, and yes, the Rook and Vickie are in fact still playing that fighting game.

"I know it looks like I'm simply hitting buttons as fast as I can," the Rook is saying, eye intent on the screen. "At a certain level of play, that works - it gives you speed, which takes a long time to learn to deal with. Speed alone isn't enough. If you don't know what you're doing, where you're going, you'll get taken apart."

You're going to assume that Vickie's playing the ninja in a body suit because that's the one who gets swept off the edge of the stage. Your Darkling friend sighs and nods. "I think I wanna be done for a bit. My wrists are killin' me, and I'm hitting that 'too frustrated to learn' point. That and Colors is finally here."

You sigh. "I got caught up showing Fancy around and talking to Forum."

"There's quite a lot to see," the Rook agrees. He turns and looks Fancy up and down (your friend startles to see his gaze broadcast in his television-screen eye) before he extends his hand to her. "My pleasure to meet you, Miss Fancy," he rasps. "They call me the Rook."
>>
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>>1955289
Fancy clasps his hand and shakes it. "Likewise. Am I to understand that you're part of why Colors came back home, Mister...I can't say 'Mister Rook', can I?"

"Just call him Rook," Vickie advises. "Y'know, like saying 'Sergeant'."

"Everyone else does," the Rook agrees; he tucks his hand into his pocket. "And yes, we were all assigned that job. You must be the dancer Colors mentioned a few days ago."

"We need to talk Motley business," you prompt, softly. "Before we cut too lose and forget to."

"I'll make myself scarce," Fancy offers, only to stop at a gesture from the Rook.

"Stay," the Wizened instructs.

"Uhh," Vickie starts, only to be interrupted.

"If we're to be responsible for each other's lives and well-being, Fancy has a stake," the Rook rasps. "And I want an outside party."

"What about Freehold secrets?" Forum rumbles.

"I'm sure we can ask Miss Fancy for her discretion if anything comes up." The Rook coughs, raggedly; his attempt to keep it down backfires, and his body shakes as he descends into a fit of hacking and wheezing. The Wizened staggers to a trash can and spits a gob of blood and mucus into it. "Come. There's a party room clear," he manages, holding himself up against a cabinet.

"Colors?" Fancy asks, concerned.

"Your call," you pass back.

"...Alright. I'll stay."

The party room is about what you expected; somewhat dim, and dominated by a long table with touchscreen games built into it. More importantly, it comes with opaque doors that cut out the sound of the Arcade when they're shut. Vickie hops up onto the back of a chair and leans with her feet on its arms; Forum, in sharp contrast, has to hunch in on himself to fit some kind of properly.

"How do y'all have normal meetings?" Fancy asks in vague wonder as she finds her own seat, next to yours.

"Barstools, or else that thing people do where they circle up but aren't actually huddling," Vickie answers. "What's this about, Fearless Leader?"

You turn your gaze to the Rook. "Rachael Reeds, and the Autumn throne."

The Rook nods, once, and coughs into his sleeve. He sucks in a shuddering breath. "You want to know what you're throwing in with."

"I want to know that I'm not going to be harming the Freehold," you correct.

"Same," Forum admits.

Vickie looks between the three of you. "That's my fucking mother."

"You're sitting at this table, aren't you?" the Rook says, sharply. "We were always going to have this out. We may as well have it out now."
>>
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>>1955396
You lean back in your chair. "Yeah. Let's have this out. What are your intentions, Rook? What do you want, and why? King Raven seems to think you won't be happy until you sit the throne."

On the table, the Rook's hand clenches into a fist, tight enough to draw beads of blood from his palm.

"No," the Wizened murmurs. "Autumn cannot sustain the chaos of a contested throne, not with Raven leaving. Zippo Morris has it; let us see her keep it. Would I prefer a return to my status as a Prince of Autumn? Yes. Will I ask your support to that end? Also yes. We live in dangerous times. The succession cannot afford to become a bloodbath."

"You seem awful mad for a guy who's okay with this," Forum says, his voice dripping with skepticism.

"Who said I was okay?" the Rook snaps. "Tolerance is not a synonym for happiness, Forum. I would be twice the King Morris will be, but she's not a bomb waiting to go off, and I can live with that."

You rap the table, emitting a chiming sound from your knuckles. "Peace," you say softly. "Rachael?"

"I want her dead, Colors. I need her dead," the Rook adds. "We all need her gone, but I...I need to see her body buried in the earth, or fed to dogs, or put through an incinerator, and the power of her cult broken."

"He gets to talk about killing Mom and I don't?" Vickie snaps.

"What the fuck," Fancy cuts in, getting everyone's eyes. "I'm sorry, the fuck? What part of all this made it okay to make me party to premeditated murder?"

"What do you know about Rachael Reeds, mortal?" the Rook asks. "And trust that I am going somewhere with this."

The question surprises your dancer friend. "She...she runs that church, out of her home. The one that just got tax-exempt status. She did that interview, where she said she was a demigod, and that there are more like her. She seemed...I dunno, intense?"

"Intense is a word to describe her," Vickie mutters, bitterly.

"Rachael Reeds is insane, Miss Fancy. Insane even by our standards." The Rook drums the table with his fingers; each word is chosen carefully, deliberately. "What do you think is going to happen? I went up against her and this, taking my eye and my arm, was her idea of mercy. Now the mortal world looks upon us, some in open lust, some, like you, in innocent wonder, and others in disgust and anger. How long do you think it will be before she starts coming after the churches that protest her? How long before the blunt hatchet of her power hits the national news? The Lost are revealed and we do not yet have the unconditional acceptance of our fellow citizens. The situation is delicate, and it will not survive her."

"So it's fine to just kill her?" Fancy asks.
>>
>>1955465
"That part is for me. She took what I cannot get back. There is a debt to pay." The Rook touches his empty sleeve; a cough wracks him, spraying spit onto the table, which he wipes up with a cloth from his pocket. "Violence is part of our lives. The best of us employ it justly. The worst succumb. No one escapes it." The Wizened shakes his head. "But I have considered it. Simply executing her or killing her in her bed, even if I thought I could do it, would send an incorrect message. It may worry Zoe, and it would not...would not support the idea that I have learned from my mistakes."

"So, what, pistols at dawn?" Vickie asks in disbelief.

"Of a sort, yes. I intend, when I am ready, to challenge her to a duel, to be judged by the Freehold for all to see. One of us lives, the other dies. No collateral, no messy public display, just us, our magic, and our cunning, as it should be." The Rook's television-screen eye goes to you. "Is this to your satisfaction, Warlock Knight?"

"Timetable?" you ask, frankly.

"Not any time soon. Late Autumn, perhaps, though if it cannot happen in Autumn I will need to wait for Spring. I doubt that Misery Monroe will condone the duel."

Vickie sighs and stares down at the table with a lost expression on her face.

> Support the Rook
> Argue against the Rook (give reasons)
> Table this until the end of the current Pledge and convene for a Motley vote at that time
> Write-in?
>>
>>1955493
> Support the Rook

I can't really argue against his reasoning. I'll admit there may be a less morally ambiguous path with trying to persuade her but... I'm doubtful that will happen any time soon nor before it's too late. She has a position of power, followers, and worse, validation. Connecting and reaching her would not be worth the effort with what's currently at stake and what tools we have. She has no reason to accept a different worldview as of current, nor do we have a tool to properly leverage one.
>>
>>1955493
>Vickie? Do you need a moment or can you give your toughts on this now?
>>
>>1955493
this >>1955771

with shades of
> Support the Rook

Also poor fancy being thrown into the deep end here....
If we had the choice to decide whether or not she came to the meeting I'm not sure I would've voted yes.
>>
Slow night for votes. I'ma let this keep cooking for a bit.
>>
>>1955493
> Support the Rook

I agree with supporting the Rook. A begrudging acceptance of Zoe's throne is better than I was expecting, and really reeds needs to be dealt with anyway.

>>1955771
Solid point though, how is Vickie taking this?
>>
>>1955493
>> Argue against the Rook (give reasons)
Justice requires proof - Rachel may be a bad idea; but it takes more than your word vs hers for a call to action.
Give me something solid that proves Rachel is a bad idea; not just omens of doom. FWIW, if you need help getting that proof; probably okay with helping with that part.
>>
>>1955493
>Vickie? Do you need a moment, or can you give us your thoughts now?
>Support the Rook's desire for a duel. His reasoning ~seems~ sound.
>>
>>1955493
> Leaning towards Supporting the Rook. I have a few things I would like to point out first, but they can wait a bit.
>Vickie? Do you need a moment or can you give your thoughts on this now?
>What about the rest of the motley. What do you all think?
>Give a brief explanation of Changeling dueling culture to Fancy. For this freehold. Not Boston. No it is not pretty, sudden fatal violence is one of the reasons... I digress.
>Fancy? While you are not a member of the motley you were invited here. I would appreciate the mortal perspective on the situation.
>I was a member of a clandestine "peace keeping" organization for a number of years. One of the reasons I fled is because they were killing everyone who committed the crime of disagreeing with them. The situation is different, but I do not want to slide back into old habits.
>>
>>1957827
continued.

>>1955493
>Revenge is all well and good, as is protecting the freehold. What I have heard about her suggest this woman is a nutcase.
>If Vickie is comfortable enough to speak of her experiences now would be a good time.
>And as loathe as I am to support what IS essentially premeditated murder... If you really, TRULY believe that this woman is dangerous... *sigh*.
>I cannot rightly refute you, you ARE good at your job. To find threats to the freehold and the people within it and eliminate them. You have also shown the ability to keep your emotions in check when it calls for it.
>However. I would be remiss not to point out how this looks, and to try and curb you into a slightly less extreme direction.
>As it stands this is both Amoral and what tanked your reputation in the first place.
>You said you had time? Use it.
>You said this woman was a danger, prove it. Get evidence. You probably wont find a smoking gun, but it will help you defend you in the aftermath. If you DO find a smoking gun I am sure you can find a good use for it.
>Find a reason, a GOOD solid reason. Besides revenge. Something that will satisfy the rest of the freehold. From what I have heard it should not be too hard.
>Next. Do you REALLY have to kill her. Yes. I know a dead enemy is one who does not come back for revenge, yes I know it is safer for you and the motley as a whole to do so. I am tired of not listening to my conscience.
>You said you wanted revenge, and satisfaction. I do not like torture and maiming as punishments, but they are more palatable than death. Apparently. Get a curse from a goblin market, ruin her reputation, take your pound of flesh out as an oath, cut her arm off.
>Would you take Exile as opposed to death.
>Next up. you are already on thin ice socially, even I know that. If you go through with killing her, after she "spared" you, you are probably going to go from "disgrace" to "problem that needs to be dealt with".
> Once again this is your forte.
>Make sure your reputation can take the hit.
> You are not a fool, nor are you an amateur. I am sorry if I am treating you like on. This is mostly spur of the moment.
>Either find an alternative to killing her.
>Or find a reason that most of the freehold will accept.
>I will help you if you can agree to do one of these, I would LIKE you to do both.

>Even if you dont agree to either of those I will not try to stop you.
>Even if you dont agree to either of those conditions I will still be more than willing to train with you, and provide any insights or advantages into hedge dueling and combat I can.
>>
>>1955493
Supporting: >>1957159
>>
>>1955493
>>Vickie? Do you need a moment, or can you give us your thoughts now?

Also, let'st not forget that the Rook is an able manipulator, even if he is our ally
>>
>>1955493
It sort of sounds like whether or not we form a motley, Rook is going to ask for a hedge duel regardless. Is this accurate?
>>
>>1957840
Rook will not give up all his life goals just to be part of a Motley ?
>>
>Vickie? Do you need a moment or can you give your toughts on this now?
>>
Called, writing.
>>
>>1955924
Fancy has to know what out life is like. This is the sharp end of the price of magic; It's not always paid only by hose who gain from it, no matter how much they might wish it was.

Did she think we gave John a trial in a court? The mortal world doesn't realize the truth of it yet but we are in a war with the Fae, but also our own natures and if that war spills over . . .
>>
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"Vickie, are you alright?" you ask gently. "Do you need a minute?"

"I'm fine," the Darkling snaps. She catches the look on your face and softens. "...I'm fine," she insists. "Just...hell. Talk about your fuckin' whiplash, Colors. One minute it's 'Vickie, you can't kill your Mom' and the next it's 'Vickie, sit back and watch someone else do it'. And lemme guess, it's okay because he's not related to her."

The look Fancy gives Vickie is worried, more than anything else. "Why would you want to kill your own mother?" the dancer asks, in a gentle voice.

"...She enslaved me. For a year and a day, when I needed her the most," Vickie answers, her voice a harsh whisper. "She betrayed my father to go play Goddess, literally. Rachael gave up on Dad. She gave up on our family and left them for dead. But she's still my mother. You want me to leave her for dead too?"

"You don't want to?" Forum asks, eyebrow raised.

"Fuck you, nerd, she's my mother. I'm allowed to have complicated feelings about my fucking family!"

"Back it down, Vickie," you suggest, your voice firm. "No one here is your enemy."

There is a moment of silence, before the Rook stirs. "You ask if you should sit back and watch her die. I ask you, Vickie Reeds of the Court of Wrath, if I should simply let her go. I cannot live my life with Rachael in it. I do not know peace, or contentment, or even the hope of a better tomorrow, because her shadow lays over me." He coughs into his sleeve, rage flashing across his face at the interruption. "I won't ask you to help me, not against your own blood. But I will ask you not to stop me."

"Colors?" Vickie asks. "What's your take?"

"I - "

"Don't pass the buck back to me, you've got the working conscience," Vickie interrupts. Forum and the Rook snort; Fancy sits back in her chair, looking uncomfortable.

"I feel as though the Rook has good reasons for what he wants," you say at last. "Spring asks the question of how someone will grow from a duel that they desire, and...I believe him, when he says that he cannot achieve his own growth and joy while Rachael looms over him. And he's not wrong about the Mask being gone, and what that means for...people like her." You take in a deep breath. "I'm okay with this as a public duel."

"Alright," Vickie says after a long moment. "I'm with you then, Fearless Leader. But I'm not gonna help."

The Rook clears his throat. "That leaves us at the question of if we should bind a pact now, and if so, what pact."

"We're still laboring under Monroe's," Forum points out. "Not necessarily a bad thing, a standard Motley Oath shouldn't conflict with it, but we've got most of a month under Colors' chain of command from that job."

"We could agree to meet again to swear in later?" Vickie proposes.

> Swear now
> Wait

Sorry this took so long it's been A Day
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>>1960072
>> Wait
>>
>>1960072
> Wait

The Horse may learn to talk. Rachel might die from accident or anothers design and take the question off our hands entirely. Or she might suddenly stop being a raging cunt, stranger things have happened.

Regardless, Rook is willing to give up his claim to the Crown for the stability of the realm. He was willing to give up any gain from his claim on John's loot that could have been used in his personal mission as well.

He can't be expected to just walk away from everything, since that would mean to lose everything.
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>>1960072
>Wait

This is about as good as we can get.
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>>1960072
>Wait
There is absolutely no rush.
>>
Called, writing new thread.
>>
NEW THREAD

>>1964514
>>1964514
>>1964514
>>1964514




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