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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/2754094/
Jack's Unsanctioned Editorials: https://jacks-unsanctioned-editorials.tumblr.com/
Tumblr: https://qm-vox.tumblr.com/tagged/cinderella-sanction-quest

That tumblr tag will get you all of the update announcements and side fiction.

You are Colors Eriskdotter, the Warlock Knight, currently waiting in the lobby of the Juniper Building to talk to a woman that hates you and looks down on you.

This made more sense when you originally decided to do it.

You fight the urge to cover your neck up; hickies before major public events are something Spring has just learned to let go. Stereotypes about being oversexed party animals aside, it's the Court of Desire. What's everyone going to do, try to diss you for following the game plan?

Cherry comes in with a knot of her friends, all of them dressed in Hedgespun made of woven flower petals that fills the Autumn air with the scent of Spring. You go to speak up but the part of your brain that does Words seems to be out for a bathroom break; you manage a hand gesture that was trying to be a wave, bouncing up on the balls of your feet in worry that Cherry won't see. The motion catches someone's eye, and she points you out to the Sage Escort.

Cherry looks you up and down, and her immediate expression of annoyance softens somewhat. In...pity? Sympathy?

Fuck.
>>
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>>2785810
"I'll catch up," Cherry says to her posse. They look at each other; Woody, that Wizened from Carroll House that you talked to at the Feast of Strength, opens his mouth to say something. Cherry's fox ears twitch in his direction, and she interrupts him before he can even start: "I know you know what implication is, youngblood. What you heard was 'leave me alone with the warlock' and you know it."

Cherry's clique heads for the stairs. The fox-woman sighs, runs her hands through her hair, and then approaches you with her composure intact.

"Thanks," you mutter, not exactly sure why you're embarrassed. "You didn't have to...you coulda..."

"Taking pot shots at you for being an Elemental is beneath me," Cherry says simply. "...And cruel, besides. What is it you want, Warlock Knight?"

Uhh. Uhhhhhhhhhhh....

"I really do not have all day," Cherry prompts, that softer expression going right back to annoyed.

"Is it gauche to ask who you're voting for?" you grasp for something to talk about while you figure out why exactly you needed to talk to Cherry. You waited here for her for a reason, you know you did, and it'd be nice if your fucking brain would provide it.

To your surprise, Cherry actually frowns thoughtfully. "I know you're not supposed to with mortals," she admits. "It's...rude...to ask if they don't offer. Which, incidentally, applies your way too if you do elections."

Oh right, those. You should do those.

"But I've never really had occasion to think about it," Cherry continues. "I suppose it might be, it could be valuable information, but at the same time we're all about to play our hands. I'd err on the side of 'yes'. Is that all?"

Uhh.

Uhhhh.

Uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

"Well this was a fantastic waste of my time and goodwill." Cherry turns and starts for the stairs that will take her up.

"I need to speak to you as Sage Escort!" you blurt out, and she stops, turns, and walks back to you with a distinctly professional look of interest.

"Regarding?"

> Explain about Fancy and the breakup. Why can't you keep your head straight?
> Ask for advice about Erin. She was up-and-down during that whole Hedge journey, but also...sweet. And sad?
> Tell her about Vickie as best you can without hurting your friend's privacy. You want to help. How can you help?
> Write-in? (Remember: Cherry's job includes sex, sexuality, romantic relationships, and advice thereupon. As a basic example, she handles ensuring that the Freehold has access to sex ed materials since so many Lost might have missed out on those lessons at school or at home)
>>
>>2785833
>> Explain about Fancy and the breakup. Why can't you keep your head straight?
>>
>>2785833
> I keep being told I'm everyone's leader while they, uh, take an interest in me. I don't understand why I'm a leader, and I doubly don't really know how I'm supposed to act when they flirt with me sometimes

Take a more general approach.

Talk about the conflict between being someone people are choosing to follow and being someone they want to fuck, similar to the conversation with Vickie about wanting Ramona to give them a kiss actually.

And advice on what we're supposed to do when things cross the lines between "respected superior/comrade/role model(?)" And "oh are we fucking as an official thing now, or?.."

The blurring between roles in each other's lives is complicated stuff, no wonder Colors needs someone to talk to about it
>>
speaking as of last night I don't really agree with the interpretations from other anons. To me it seems more like Colors has an extremely strong sexual nature that she's been bottling up for a long time, and now that she's in spring and learning to accept herself, it's sort of broken the dam so to speak
>>
>>2785833
> I'm kind of becoming the stereotype of Spring sleeping with all my friends and... am I digging myself in a hole? Is that going to become a problem? With them, I mean, not the Court. Er, it's not a problem for the Court, is it?

Dammit Vox confused Colors is way too much fun to write rambling dialog for.
>>
>>2785864

> I keep being told I'm everyone's leader while they, uh, take an interest in me. I don't understand why I'm a leader, and I doubly don't really know how I'm supposed to act when they flirt with me sometimes

Seconded. This seems like as reasonable a way into this as any.
>>
>>2785833
>> Tell her about Vickie as best you can without hurting your friend's privacy. You want to help. How can you help?
>>
Why did Colors fumble so hard in the first and second attempt with Cherey ? Where has the professionalism gone ?
>>
>>2786247
Lesbian brain. Girl hot
>>
>>2786044
> I'm kind of becoming the stereotype of Spring sleeping with all my friends and... am I digging myself in a hole? Is that going to become a problem? With them, I mean, not the Court. Er, it's not a problem for the Court, is it?

Colors basically going "oh god, what do, halp" is perfect
>>
>>2785833
> I'm kind of becoming the stereotype of Spring sleeping with all my friends and... am I digging myself in a hole? Is that going to become a problem? With them, I mean, not the Court. Er, it's not a problem for the Court, is it?

I'll support this. But hey! It's a change from sleeping with strangers.
>>
Called, writing. Looks like:

> I'm kind of becoming the stereotype of Spring sleeping with all my friends and... am I digging myself in a hole? Is that going to become a problem? With them, I mean, not the Court. Er, it's not a problem for the Court, is it?

Is our winner.
>>
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>>2785833
You take a deep breath but saying what you needed out loud has finally put your thoughts in order; you just need your words to follow suit.

"I feel like...I...one moment..."

"Take your time," Cherry says patiently. "This part is my job. Is it complicated, or are you confused about it?"

"Confused, I think. Yes." You nod; it sounds right. "I feel like I'm sort of becoming the stereotype we try not to encourage, the Spring courtier who sleeps with...well...everyone. Well. Not everyone, I got off the Pixie Chasers, but - I've been intimate with a lot of my friends now, with Fancy, and Erin Peters, and now Vickie. Am I digging myself into a hole here, something that's going to be a problem?"

"With them?" Cherry clarifies.

"Erm...not with the Court, right?"

The fox-woman laughs, lightly. "No, not with the Court. Can you tell me why you've sought intimacy with these women? Do you even know, yourself?"

You open your mouth. Close it. Frown, in thought. "Erin I know," you answer softly. "I was dating Fancy, then, but...there was something there between us. This connection, this feeling of being close, and she...needed me. And I wanted that, that thing, that close thing that didn't need to be explained, I wanted it badly enough to have it."

Cherry tilts her head. "Miss Fancy. The mortal girl, if I remember right - a dancer, at the Colonial Theatre?"

"She was my friend, and she wanted to try something more, and I wanted to try something more, and...I wasn't...ready." It's a heavy admission, but somehow saying it out loud takes an odd weight off of your chest that you hadn't realized you were carrying with you. "I wasn't ready and I hurt her."

"It sounds like you aren't doing this just to do it," Cherry muses. "Would you sleep with someone you don't know?"

"...Not anymore..." you blush black in your cheeks, but Cherry just nods.

"I'm not here to tell you how to love or who," Cherry begins. "I can say that you seem like a physical person to me. You were taken young, you said, and that can be a factor as well. I wouldn't worry about it. Or, rather," she half-smiles, "I would take comfort in the fact that you worry about it. You love and respect these people?"

"Yes," you say without hesitation.

"You don't want to hurt them?" You shake your head. "Then don't. Stay clear about your intentions and listen to the things they tell you. I can't promise you a pain-free relationship with any of them but there's nothing wrong with friendship that have a sexual element, Colors. We all deal with our Desires and our insecurities differently."

You frown and look away, parsing a thought through your head. "That sounds...selfish."

Cherry shrugs. "Maybe? But that can be okay too. It's nice to feel close to someone, isn't it."

"Gods yes," you whisper.
>>
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>>2787916
"Know thyself, and act accordingly. Those good intentions will get you far here, I think. There's no cheat code for me to give you here Colors, nothing to make it simple. Even the Fairest struggle with love, and break their own fragile hearts." Cherry's fox ears twitch, swiveling faintly in the direction of the door; more Spring Courtiers are arriving. "Talk. Listen. And don't be ashamed to do either."

You nod. "I've been listening," you promise. "Even if I haven't always been understanding."

"That's always the hard part, isn't it? I'll see you at the vote, Warlock Knight."

When you don't say anything to stop her, Cherry Kinkaid goes up the stairs and leaves you alone with your thoughts.

("I'm not your problem, Colors," Erin said, her voice small, in that thin shack in the Hedge. "Don't make me your problem. Don't break that girl's heart over me, enough people have gotten hurt over me.")

Talk. Listen. It sounds so simple. Except it's not, is it? It's not simple at all. If it was simple everyone would do it.

("Just let me lie to you!")

("I don't think I'm ready.")

You end up sinking into a chair, deep in thought. Erin needed you, needed...to feel loved? No. Not loved. She'd asked you to take your armor off in her home like she was afraid you'd say no.

("You trust me."

"It seems that way.")

Vickie wants...what does Vickie want? Why does she whiplash between all these feelings with so little time anywhere in the middle?

You jolt when you feel a hand on your shoulder; you slowly let go of Bifrost's hilt when you realize it's Erin, with Sally there behind her.

"You're gonna be late," the ex-pirate tells you.

"Sorry," you murmur. "Let's go."
>>
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>>2787919
The aesthetic of the art gallery changes from season to season, as the ruling Court puts up pieces suitable to it, and others are painted, sculpted, blown, and sometimes taken from the collection by being sold. You snort when you see an arcade cabinet in the corner, labeled 'ENDEAVOR'. A group of Lost painted on the side in pixel art are up against a pack of briarwolves. The air smells like rain and flowers.

Natalia beams. The shadows that frame and accent her face and outfit (a tasteful skirt and blouse made from slices of night sky) contrast against the warm glow of her powerful Spring mantle, and she chats up her fellow Courtiers with a genuine interest.

It's hard for you to tell how many of these looks are polite and how many are genuine, but you have a sinking feeling that 'genuine' is winning.

"This may be her year," your liege says as she approaches from your left. She hands you a wine glass full of warm, spiced cider. "She's played the game patiently, and slowly it has paid off. You and Erin cost me quite a bit, politically."

You look away. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be. I'd take you in a thousand times." Ramona favors you with a smile, which sets your heart all a-flutter. "I believe in Spring, Colors. Even for such as Erin. Perhaps especially for such as Erin. Who among us is innocent?"

"And Natalia?" you ask, your eyes on the Emerald Princess. "What does Natalia believe in?"

Ramona sighs. "She believes a crown will fill the hollow place in her heart. No, no, I am being unfair, but...Natalia would not have taken you or Erin in. She believes in a more personal Spring. A Spring without obligations...or help."

Cherry looks over at you from her conversation with Natalia and raises her glass with a distinctly sharp expression. Her vote will likely go with the Emerald Princess.

You wanted to help. Now is the time - surely there is something you can do?

> Maggie and her Satraps are for sale, aren't they? Maybe you can buy their vote.
> Erin can help you with your dramatic speech. You don't have much time.
> Ramona is looking down. You need to cheer her up (Persuasion against ???)
> What the fuck is Cherry even doing, anyway? She takes a volunteer position to help the community and then turns around and tells you that Spring is cliquish and selfish and throws it in your face when it's go time? She needs a piece of your mind.
>>
>>2787925
>Maggie and her Satraps are for sale, aren't they? Maybe you can buy their vote.
Maybe try and spin the deal we made for Maggie's support against Cherry into this somehow?
>>
>>2787925

> Maggie and her Satraps are for sale, aren't they? Maybe you can buy their vote.

Ask Erin to handle this part, while we

> Ramona is looking down. You need to cheer her up (Persuasion against ???)
>>
>>2787984
I like this idea better.
Switching.
>>
>>2787925
>> Maggie and her Satraps are for sale, aren't they? Maybe you can buy their vote.
>>
>>2787925
> Ramona is looking down. You need to cheer her up (Persuasion against ???)
>>
>>2787925
we pretty much saved the freehold- doesn't our word carry any weight?
>>
>>2788242
It does, or at least in theory it does! Vickie discussed this very idea. But the context matters. To many in Spring, the job you went on was Summer's business and it means nothing to your status in the Court; to others, you're a hero. Of potentially greater political relevance is the fact that your goodwill can control or deny access to Vickie, the Rook, and Forum, fellow Freeholders whose stars seem to be back on the upswing.
>>
>>2787984
>support if possible, otherwise

>ramona is looking down, you need to cheer her up
(Possibly spend WP to do so)
>>
>>2788242
>doesn't our word carry any weight?
We're still a Warlock. if word got out that we deleted our Fetch/robbed a Lesser Fae our rep might improve a bit ?
>>
>>2787925
I don't want to bend the rules but does Flickering Acumen apply here ? (e.g. we have little time to cheer Ramona up before the voting begins.)
>>
I gotta hit work; votes remain open.
>>
>>2788267
> I don't want to bend the rules

To be fair

> https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=hbBsKEUxlBE#

To be faaaaair, bending the rules is kind of what makes magical stuff fun.

Of course, there's always the risk of breaking tbmhe rules by mistake instead, or having things go not as planned.
>>
Stupid question, and sorry if it's been asked before, but how often are people like, assassinated and whatnot? I'm kinda new to this quest and it seems like a shitton of intrigue.
>>
>>2790116
Definitely more often than humans do it, but less often than you might think. The Rook's attempt to get Rachael and Zoe to kill each other was notable but not outside of what people sometimes think of as business as usual in the upper echelons of Autumn.

The Lost can be...comfortable...with violence. Their lives are so often inextricably connected with it, after all. But as Ramona said, the pretty dream at the heart of every Freehold is a life of peace.
>>
>>2787925
>> Ramona is looking down. You need to cheer her up (Persuasion against ???)

We may be gaining in influence, but however popular Natalia may be becoming, Ramona is and has been the Spring Monarch. Not only do people listen to her, she knows how to speak and to sway people in a way we probably never will.

If she will speak on her own behalf, there's a good chance she can sway people back over to her side.
>>
Okay so here's how today needs to go: I need to get ready for work and take care of home stuff. I can call and write near midnight tonight, and will do my best to update more than one time during my day off tomorrow.

In the meantime, votes remain open.
>>
Hokay so, sorry for the communications blackout here.

>>2787984 is not gonna work as a combined vote for a few reasons, chief among them being that however much Erin is on Spring's shit list just for existing with a Spring mantle, she is definitely not in any position whatsoever to go talk to the Satrapy, whose reputation her activities blackened across the globe.

I've got three votes for that combination, plus one straight Satraps vote, and two straight Ramona votes. I'm gonna call it for:

> Ramona is looking down. You need to cheer her up (Persuasion against ???)

Roll me 1d10+5, ONCE.

I may not write tonight. It's been a hell of a day. But I want the results.
>>
Rolled 7 + 5 (1d10 + 5)

>>2791794
>>
>>2791794
on an unrelated note the way you're doing skills for the nwod system feels a little weird
>>
>>2791819
It is a little weird, but, I'm gonna level with you: nWoD's system is a ramshackle hellscape that does zero (0) percent of what it was built to do. I have no respect for it whatsoever. What I built was made entirely in an effort to be convenient while running this quest and with no consideration for anything but this exact format.
>>
>>2791822
This was the right choice. At best of times /qst/ doesn't 1 to 1 for systems and work well.

Except for Mekton.
>>
>>2791822
>that does zero (0) percent of what it was built to do.
That's quite the achievement.
>>
>>2791971
And yet...

Writing now. Thank ya for your patience; doing that whole sleep thing like an actual adult worked wonders.
>>
>>2792400
The Vox has been slain! Quickly! Gather the sacred beans and prepare the ritual of the holy brew! I shall go and find a critic, that the lich might rise and shake his staff most erratically in their general face area.

Silliness aside, don't rush anything Vox. If you think its late or just need to take a breather, just hold off on updating. The interwebs aren't going anywhere.
>>
>>2793962
>The interwebs aren't going anywhere.
And if they are, we'll just turn this into a PBM (Play By Mail) game.
>>
>>2793962
Sorry about that y'all. I ended up coming down with something bad enough that I called off work this morning; I couldn't sleep through the pain.

Will update after I medicate. Or die.
>>
>>2794298
Main thing is that it should still be fun to run atm. If it absolutely isnt due to that reason, then see you when youre feeling better again.
>>
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>>2794298
Sigh. QM curse strikes again.
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>>2787925
7 + 5 = 12; SUCCESS

Ramona Rabbit, Queen of the Emerald Court, believed in your Spring before you ever did. When you dragged yourself into New Avalon, hungry and cold, feet bloody from walking the whole way from Philly (and oh, how you had walked), she took you in without a second thought, without a single doubt.

Maybe today you can repay part of that favor.

"It's not her year," you tell Ramona. You straighten your back and rest your palm on Bifrost's pommel (distantly, some part of your brain wonders if Trista's put her kids through those classes yet; you murmur a mental thanks at the glass of your blade for the reminder). "Not this year, not next year. You've worked hard to help people find their Spring, and to help the Freehold find its Spring, and now more than ever we need that. Everything is changing."

Your queen stirs; her long black ears twitch with what you think is curiosity. "And why shouldn't the Antler Crown change as well?"

"We need to pull together, not fall apart. Like Zoe said, after...after Kennedy," you finish. "My lady, can you tell me that Natalia saw anything wrong in what Venus did? That we wouldn't see more like that under her rule? You help keep our heads on straight, remind us that the Spring we ask for ourselves should be offered to others."

"Some might say we've taken on that burden too long, with nothing to show in turn," Ramona poses to you. "That we deserve this chance to see to our own needs."

You frown at this. "What needs of ours aren't being seen to, exactly?"

Ramona Rabbit is silent, and finally she nods. Her Mantle, a murmur in the face of her doubt and sorrow, rises to her Desire with the scent of a riotous garden in full bloom, and the taste of rain on the warm Spring breeze.

"We haven't gotten this far by falling apart," you murmur. "How can I help?"

"Just be yourself, Colors. That's all Spring is ever going to ask of you, and all it ever needs of you. Just be the person you know you can be. Though now that you mention it, standing here looking imposing works for now." Ramona favors you with a bright smile, and then a kiss on your forehead that burns your cheeks black. "Thank you, Dame Eriksdotter. It's easy to forget that sometimes, the choices are simple."

You clear your throat and stand there, looking imposing.

Or like a gay disaster.

One of those.
>>
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>>2795769
> One of those.
Why not both?
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>>2795769
You're just starting to think 'so when do the dramatic speeches start, the whole Court is here' when the door opens to admit Zoe Morris (the Autumn Crown trailing burning paper from her brow), Lord Arthur, and Misery Monroe. The Lord of December has brought that Venombite with him, the one who was there for the first meeting where you were assigned to work with your new friends; you still don't know her name, but the spidery Beast acknowledges you with a brief nod before she gets out one of those cheap Composition notebooks from Any Retailer Ever and stands poised to take notes.

"The Lords of November, July, and December are invited to voice their opinions, if any, but may not cast votes," Ramona explains, sotto voce. You give a soft nod of comprehension as Doc Ripples steps into the center of the gallery and clears his throat.

Brother Doc Ripples was probably pretty attractive back in the day, for a guy; even now that he's pushing eighty the old Beast (dusted in scales and with webs between his fingers for ease of swimming) has a handsome aspect and a clear, proud voice. "The Emerald Court gathers here on this auspicious day to select and support our ruler for the coming Spring, and for that ruler to appoint their April Maid and set the business of the Court. We thank our esteemed guests from Winter, Summer, and Autumn, and honor our long friendships. Let all willing to speak of the business of this day feel free to do so and be heard; let votes be cast with true hearts. Who here claims the Throne as their true heart's Desire?"

"My heart beats true beneath the Crown on my brow," Ramona answers, a light smile playing on her lips in contrast with her formal tone. "It asks a few months more yet of Spring."

"The Court hears your Desire," Ripples responds, and the rest of the Court echoes it back. You blink in surprise and look at Misery; the Lord of December raises an eyebrow at you while his court of shadows rolls in silent laughter along the wall.

Natalia steps forward from the knot of her supporters she had been talking to: "The song of my Desire has called for the Throne for many years now. Its ardor stands undimmed; I seek the cool touch of a Crown on my brow to quench it."

"The Court hears your Desire," Ripples answers once again, and this time you too are part of the chorus of responses. After a moment of silence, Doc Ripples asks if anyone else lusts for the Crown. When there is no answer, he nods. "Let those prepared to speak do so. Queen Ramona, do you wish to speak first?"

"I will wait," Ramona announces. The Court seems surprised by this; you catch interested looks, a couple expression of outright shock, and the Magpie of the Old Docks cackling in glee while she swirls her glass of clear liquid.

"Princess Natalia?"
>>
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>>2795798
"I will speak," the Darkling agrees. The vines that twine their way through her hair slither and rustle, stretching towards the warm light and sharp shadows of her Spring Mantle. Her hypnotic voice has the room's full attention, but Natalia Greene has eyes only for Ramona.

She smiles, but it's a hollow thing. A hungry thing.

"It is time for a change," Natalia says. "When I first sought the Crown, I was not ready, but Ramona saw potential in me - potential enough to make me her majordomo and, later, the April Maid. You've all met me, and you've all seen me at work. Power is a tool I now know how to wield, and with it the responsibilities it implies. But does Ramona understand these lessons she has imparted to me?"

Natalia pauses, ending the trance of her voice and freeing the room to mutter at her brazen accusation. After a moment, the Darkling continues.

"Spring is a personal journey, an individual journey. We are meant to stand or fall on that path on our own, to make our own friends and enemies. For years, Ramona has sent us up and down this city at the behest of other Courts, propping them up when they flag, and honestly, at the time, I could agree. Summer under Leo was an ongoing disaster held together only by his terrible will - but Summer is now ruled by the Once and Future King, and no longer needs us. King Raven was owed our love and loyalty as a founder of this Freehold, but now he is gone, and Zoe Morris no longer needs us. If we need Winter, the Master of Noose and Razor has been more than willing to sit down and work out terms. For years we have broken our backs for this Freehold, planning its parties, making its art, healing its hurts, supplying its money, and now it is our turn. I do not intend to be a demanding Queen, or a stern one. Why not let the world pass by for a season and see how it fares on its own?"

Natalia turns and bows to Doc Ripples, and then steps back. The Emerald Princess stands proud and confident, one hand resting on her saber; she arches an eyebrow at Ramona and waits.

Zoe Morris steps forward. "The Lady of November would be heard," she says, and when Ripples nods to her she continues: "Natalia is right. You all have busted ass, and getting tangled up in Summer and Autumn's business while we're shoulder-deep in it is just gonna be a lot more work and toil. I back her claim."

If Ramona had elicited some surprise, Zoe gets quite a bit of it; the room fills with murmurs and whispers while the Queen of Bonfires steps back.

You open your mouth and get a light touch on the back of your hand from Ramona. You look to her, and your liege makes the smallest of questioning head gestures towards Erin Peters. Will she speak if called to?

> Nod your head
> Indicate Maggie the Ragpicker
> Direct Ramona to Misery Monroe
> Just shake your head
>>
>>2795810
I have honestly no idea, but I’d like to believe she would.
>Nod your head
>>
>direct Ramona to Misery Monroe

A Queen spoke for Natalia; a King' s response is the move that best keeps the rhythm of the dance.
>>
>>2795810
>> Direct Ramona to Misery Monroe
Even if Erin was good at speeching, , she is so high on Spring's shitlist that is is a huge risk.
>>
>>2795810
> > Nod your head

>>2795870
In all fairness, Colors was also on the shitlist. She still is, in some respects.
>>
>>2795810
>> Nod your head
>>
>>2795820
>>2795870
trust me, the last thing any court is anyone from a different court telling them how to do things. An endorsement by Morris is actually a death kiss- no one would want a queen of spring who the fall court approves of
>>
>>2795964
>trust me, the last thing any court is anyone from a different court telling them how to do things
Really ? where is that in the canon ? If their opinio was unwanted they would not be invited to the vote, or... ?
>>
>>2796102
inter court rivalries are totally present no matter where you go, and the suspicion is both real and a necessary for survival no matter where you go.

It depends of course on the personal history of the different factions of course, but insular and cliquey societies generally don't take well to outsiders and potential rivals for power coming in and giving them a lecture on what to do
>>
>>2795810
>> Nod your head
We should trust Ramona's judgement and just answer the question. Erin will speak if asked; whether that's wise is up to Ramona
>>
>>2796104
>generally don't take well to outsiders and potential rivals for power coming in and giving them a lecture on what to do
Is Zoe a rival for power ? She's the Queen of the entire Freehold and not the kind to want a iron grip on it. And would a good Freehold Queen favor her own court against Spring or not ?
There are certainly Courts where Spring could be openly hostile against others (hi Philadelphia) but not the Spring Courtiers here.
>>
>>2796252
You know what, forget it. You want this Vampire-like society where every faction is at each other's throat. As you like it.
>>
>>2795810
>> Nod your head
>>
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>>2795810

I got some points to toss out.

Are these people loyal to Spring, or to each other? Can you be loyal to Spring without being faithful to what was given, because when something is given freely like what Ramona gave us, you don't owe anyone but yourself. But shouldn't you repay yourself by being the best you, and even though there isn't a debt, if you can give back freely then why not?

Ramona has helped us be our best selves, even when the people she's helped have been the worst.

Spring is an individual journey, but what kind of individual do they want to be? We've seen first hand what happens when there's a tyranny of one season. We forswore ourselves because that was better than staying. We definitely know as well if not better than anyone what being forced to a yoke is like

The help we've received from Ramona was freely given. The aid we've offered was in turn freely given. Not because we owed it to Ramona, but because we owed it to ourselves to be our best self, and our best self wants to use their fullest ability to make things *better*. For ourselves first, but also for those we care about, and even for those we dislike because we can.

When we were property, we were forced to be what our owners wanted. Now that we are free, we can be anything we want. Even if we choose to continue down the path we were originally forced upon.

But whatever we strive towards becoming, if we can truly become anything in our Spring, let us try to become *good*.

TL;DR pic related
>>
>>2795810
I would also like to bring up if it seems appropriate the fact that both us and Erin are oath-breakers. For different reasons, but oath breakers none the less.

Yet Ramona's Spring has allowed us to trust each other - not with oaths and geas, but simply belief. And so far, it's working. It's the most human thing we've managed to do, and the fact that it's working between two people who have arguably sinned the worst here is a testament to how her faith in us lets us have faith in ourselves again.

How many people here are willing to trust without a guarantee, not just with each other but with mortals. Family, old friends, new friends, casual acquaintances.

Our Spring might not be for everyone, but it's truth that Ramona faith has allowed us to find at least the first few steps on the path to becoming happy with ourselves and the world around us.
>>
>>2795810
> Direct Ramona to Misery Monroe
The approval of Erin Peters will almost certainly be political death.
>>
>>2795879
> In all fairness, Colors was also on the shitlist. She still is, in some respects.
An oathbreaker who also helped fight for the freehold is no where near as bad as a former privateer. Not even close. Oathbreaking is one of those things where most changelings can at least imagine a circumstance under which it might not be too bad, just kind of distasteful. Being a privateer is something that most changelings would see as always reprehensible, something for which there can be no justification.
>>
>>2795964
> trust me, the last thing any court is anyone from a different court telling them how to do things. An endorsement by Morris is actually a death kiss- no one would want a queen of spring who the fall court approves of
Morris and Autumn might be antithetical to Spring, but Misery Monroe and Winter aren't. Spring and Winter have a lot more in common, particularly their focus on finding a place for oneself in mortal world. Spring is a lot louder about it than Winter, but both are much more concerned with building something new than Autumn is. Misery Monroe said it himself, snow hides a sleeping spring.

Autumn, on the other hand, is all about gaining power in order to become the victimizer instead of the victim, much like Summer's desire to avoid feelings of powerlessness by getting mad as hell. Natalie's "individual" version of Spring is a lot like Autumn in a way. Spring is all about connection, you can't have a clique of one, and you can't party all on your own. But with Autumn, you are very much on your own. You make deals, you bargain, you scheme, and you maneuver to gain power for yourself so that you can inflict that power on others. In that view, other people are threats to be controlled or eliminated. With Spring, others are a vital part of oneself, without whom the whole experience is made less.

We just need someone who isn't an elemental to articulate that and paint Natalie's selfish version of Spring as Autumn in Spring's clothing.
>>
>>2797253
>But with Autumn, you are very much on your own.
If Forum did say that he was part of Rook's posse, what does that mean ? and what about the Hedge Rangers ?
>>
>>2797650
> If Forum did say that he was part of Rook's posse, what does that mean?
We kind of saw how that turned out though. Rook had a group of followers, but ultimately it was still everyone for himself. Rooks followers followed him because it was useful to them to be in Rook's good graces, and as soon as it wasn't all but Forum abandoned him. And at the end of the day, when Forum actually needed him, Rook wasn't there for him, leading Forum to leave Autumn entirely.

When I say that in Autumn you're on your own I'm not saying that there aren't deals, arrangements, temporary alliances of convenience, and powerful people outright using less powerful people. Autumn has plenty of that, they are the court of bargaining after all. But all of it is from the perspective that the other, whoever they might be, is the opponent. You getting a better deal means the other guy getting a worse deal. You gaining power lets you use it to bring others into line. You might still tie yourself to a rising star in order to benefit from their ascent, but the idea is still that everything you gain is for yourself and comes at the cost of someone else.

Working with someone for a time is sometimes the efficient solution, and Autumn is all about maximum gain for minimum expense, but the calculus is always self-serving in nature. Similarly, using your newfound power to manipulate others into serving you and doing your bidding is very much Autumn's style. Rachel Reeds was a real contender for the throne of Autumn because she represented one of the cornerstones of Autumn: Using the power of sorcery to bend others your will.

Even within the court of Autumn, you're on your own because everyone around you is a potential rival, a potential abuser, or a potential usurper. With everyone pursuing their own power, no one is really your friend. It's probably one of the reasons Rook has found a cozy spot in Colors' motley. They're part of other courts, somewhat separated from that scramble for power, and around them he might actually find something akin to friendship.
>>
>>2785810
Is shipwreck Sally in Spring or does she tag along bc of Erin ? If so, is she a Ramona supporter ?
>>
>>2798279
Shipmate Sally is indeed Spring. Presumably she's a Ramona supporter although you haven't exactly talked politics, but no one agrees to be the live-in minder of Liz fucking Malloy for no reason.
>>
And called, writing. Gonna have to be fast to get it in before work.
>>
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>>2795810
You give Ramona the slightest nod that you can. The current Queen of Spring (well, as much as anyone is out of season) clears her throat.

"I would like to invite a Courtier to speak or decline," she announces.

"Name them," Doc Ripples returns; eyes in the room go to some combination of Ramona, you, Dash (and Crash), and Lord Arthur.

"The Court invites Erin Peters to speak," comes the answer. "Slake our lust for your wisdom."

The Court stares. Despite the blindfold, you're pretty sure Erin is also staring.

"That was not a good enough reason to use the word 'lust'," your (friend?) says at last. Despite themselves, a few Courtiers laugh. Erin steps forward, away from the wall she'd been leaning against and more fully into the view of the Court, wreathed in that scent of rain, sex, and gunpowder that wafts from her Mantle. Paintings brighten as she passes.

"The Court has called upon Erin Peters." This time Doc's formality has a hard edge to it. "Will you answer its Desire?"

Erin turns her head towards Ramona, or maybe you, and then back to Doc Ripples. "Yeah, I guess I will. Y'know what, yeah, actually, let's fuckin' chat." Erin pulls her dirk from its sheath and flips it; she catches it by the tip and continues to toss it in her hand, catching and tossing the knife in a steady rhythm. Her musical accent is grating down towards the bitter sarcasm you usually hear from her in public. "Easy guess, who here likes money?"

Tittering, from the Court.

"Figured," Erin agrees. "Free food?" A few of the youngbloods less familiar with Erin's reputation whistle. "Y'like it when folks owe you favors and do things to please you? Oh yeah, it's a good feeling, isn't it? Nothing quite like spending an afternoon nestling naked on a pile of gold, right? That was the fucking life, wasn't it just?"

You and the rest of the Court flinch from Erin's sudden snarl of fury. The Fairest points the hilt of her dirk at Natalia; her pale arms dance with a thunder of musical notes, silently playing a hard percussion beat.

"So go ahead, sign up with the Princess here! It's a pretty good life. Sex, drugs, rock 'n' roll, and all you have to do is put people like me on your conscience. Liz Malloy woulda loved Natalia's Spring, hell, she grew up in it. Take what you can, give nothing in return, and make people beg for your mercy. But for Erin Peters? You can go to Hell and take your demon friends with you, Princess. And if you've got a problem with that?" Erin throws the dirk into the wooden floor of the gallery, where it quivers and sticks. "Pick it up and we can have this out. Thanks for your time."

The Court explodes while Erin goes back to Sally; angry voices yell accusations at Erin, while others shout about how it's her right to speak or even that Erin's right and who would know better? Natalia is pale with rage; her eyes are wide, and she stares at the dirk in the floor with her fists clenching and un-clenching.
>>
>>2798599
Doc Ripples is trying to restore order, to little avail. Cherry, behind Natalia, puts a hand on the Princess's shoulder; it seems to help the Darkling siren remember herself.

"I would like you to speak next," Ramona murmurs to you, barely audible over the din. "Do you think you can interrupt this?"

"How - actually yes," you answer, remembering. You take a few steps forward, draw Bifrost, and thrust it into the path of the lights; the blade sends shards of color all over the room, startling the Courtiers and putting all eyes on you.

Fuck. Now you have to talk.

Fuck.

Is death an option? You look back over your shoulder and catch Erin giving you a thumbs-up with a wan smile. You straighten your back, set Bifrost's tip into the floor, and rest your hands on its pommel while you turn to address the Court.

"I would speak and be heard," you tell Doc Ripples. The older Beast nods and draws himself up with a deep breath.

"The Court recognizes Dame Eriksdotter, called the Warlock Knight, first and only knight of Spring. Slake your Desire."

You will be rolling PERSUASION. The option you choose here will modify your roll in some way.

> This second chance that Ramona offered me has been the greatest blessing on my life, but if you think the Court got nothing out of it, well...think again.
> I bet you're wondering where these new pants are from...
> A long time ago, Alexander Hamilton talked about why he voted for his long-time enemy, Thomas Jefferson. My Dad told me that story, and I think about it a lot.
> After everything Summer and Winter have done to bury the hatchet are you really going to just turn around and fuck them like this?
>>
>>2798632
>> This second chance that Ramona offered me has been the greatest blessing on my life, but if you think the Court got nothing out of it, well...think again.
>>
>>2798632
> I bet you're wondering where these new pants are from...
>>
>>2798632
>> I bet you're wondering where these new pants are from...
>>
>>2798632
> I bet you're wondering where these new pants are from...

Mixed in with

> This second chance that Ramona offered me has been the greatest blessing on my life, but if you think the Court got nothing out of it, well...think again.

After all, are we not Spring as well? Is this a Court, or just people that don't fit in to the other Seasons. If Spring turns people away, they'll find themselves more alone than ever before. People might come to individuals for help, but will they still come to Spring? As well, if Ramona leaves, Spring might find itself losing more people than just her. Even if Ramona stays with Spring, can they stand to have people coming still to her instead of the Court?

Not to mention that what is owed to Spring is heavily tied up with Ramona. We trust her to use that for Spring, not just herself, but can the same be said for others? Or will they just use Spring for themselves, as they would have them just use others.

If all they want is their own greedy little kingdom, built on debt and favours owed, then why did they ever come back.
>>
>>2798632
> This second chance that Ramona offered me has been the greatest blessing on my life, but if you think the Court got nothing out of it, well...think again.
>>
Not gonna be able to update before work; votes remain open.
>>
>>2798632
>This second chance that Ramona offered me has been the greatest blessing on my life, but if you think the Court got nothing out of it, well...think again.

We've been repeatedly told to just be ourselves, and this seems like the most Colors option.
>>
>>2798632
>> This second chance that Ramona offered me has been the greatest blessing on my life, but if you think the Court got nothing out of it, well...think again.

>>2802429
I completely agree, the pants play seems too clever by half
>>
Aight, we've got our winner. CALLED. Roll me 1d10+7, ONCE.

Guess who picked up a bonus for playing off of Erin's move?
>>
Rolled 8 + 7 (1d10 + 7)

>>2804239
>>
>>2804260
Nice.
>>
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>>2804260
Feelin Good
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>>2804290
Need some suggestions for the crushing speech, Vox ?
>>
>>2805977
No I just need Traitor Brain to work.
>>
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>>2798632
8 + 7 = 15; SUCCESS WITH STYLE

You bow your head in thought. Be yourself. Be yourself.

A little voice in your head yells 'Halt, villain!' with great enthusiasm.

You lift your gaze to the room. "You all know my story; you certainly know it enough to call me by the title I earned for myself. The second chance that Ramona offered me, the one that made me your Warlock Knight, it's been the greatest blessing in my life and I could toil for the rest of that life and never repay it. But if you think this Spring, this Court, got nothing out of it, well...think again."

A low murmur, from parts of the Court, but you've got the attention of the youngbloods; a few are refugees from Carroll House that know damn well who liberated them, but most aren't.

"My Motley and I brought down Rainbow John and exposed the traitor preying on the Court's love," you say. "I have done business with the Satrapy of Pearls and paid the price for a smile off their lips and a shake of their hands."

The Magpie of the Old Docks barks out a laugh (her face shifts into that blank thing with its lashing tongue) and raises her glass of clear liquid with a "Hear hear!" before she downs it.

You're finding your confidence. You might not brag a lot but you've done things, and in style damnit! You point Bifrost at Little League, "Who made the Feast of Strength such a splash that New Avalon made it onto all the national news shows?"

The Fairest athlete snorts. "We'll see how you do next year, Warlock Knight. You play hard."

"Make it lacrosse so I can slash and we'll really have a go of it," you return with a grin. Next to you, Ramona laughs. "I've been by myself for most of my new Spring, given the chance to come into it on my own, encouraged but not forced at gunpoint or any point...but that doesn't mean I wasn't helped. When I didn't know where to start on my journey with Spring, it was Ramona who guided me. When I have been lost and adrift, it has been Ramona who advised me. Ramona...and Cherry Kinkaid, our Sage Escort."

Oh, there it is. Cherry is looking right at you with her tail doing that slow swish-swish that you know these days is a kind of threat; the rest of Natalia's supporters (and Cherry's clique) are trying to decide if they should look at her, you, or Anywhere But Here.
>>
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>>2806178
"I gave offense to Cherry and she refused the peace I offered her," you continue. "She demanded a Spring peace, not a Summer one, and she was absolutely right. How we do things matters as much as what we do. Should we chase our Desires? Yes! Absolutely! Make a list and try everything on it!"

(You can tell the difference between the Fairest and the really hot Elementals in the room because the former roll their eyes and chuckle while some of the youngbloods in the latter group are taking notes.)

"But if all we want to do is go on a rat race, why make a Court? It's not enough to slake our Desires; we're meant to live in joy. It's not enough to have expensive clothes; we're meant to walk in glory, to shine out from the darkness of our lives until the Jotnar's hounds to blind in our radiance and go crawling back to the kennels of their masters. Natalia thinks that Ramona is holding you back, but I say my liege has shown me the way. How many of you need a hand onto the path yourselves?"

You sweep a bow to Doc Ripples, and then step back to Ramona's side. "I hold my Desire slaked and thank the Court for its time."

There's no time for the eruption of murmuring that tries to happen; Natalia steps forward, shadows in her eyes, and disturbs the Court with her hypnotic voice: "The Court invites Cherry Kinkaid to speak."

All eyes go to Cherry. After a long silence, Doc Ripples clears his throat for the formal prompt: "The Court has called upon the Sage Escort. Will you answer its desire?"

Cherry opens her mouth, then closes it. The fox-like Beast looks down at herself and slowly, gently, skims a hand through the soft Spring rain of her Mantle; she stares at it in thought, seemingly lost in the droplets, before she flicks her hand clean and crosses the room to stand on Ramona's other side.

"Let the Court's desire smolder," Cherry answers, and this time no one could stop the astonished reactions of Spring.

> Try to thank her
> Remain silent
>>
>>2806202
>> Remain silent
>>
>>2806202
>> Remain silent
daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaamn
>>
>>2806202
>> Remain the fuck silent
>>
>>2806202
> Remain silent
>>
>>2806202
>> Try to thank her
>>
>>2806202
> Remain silent

This isn't the time or place for thanks. As we just pointed out, *how* we do things *matters*.

For that matter, I'm not clear that thanks are appropriate. We offered her a peace built of Spring war, and she accepted it. At this point, there is nothing left but for our relationship to progress. Although whether that be in peace or war is yet to be seen...
>>
I wonder if Cherry's going to be pissed that we kinda sorta just publicly shamed her again.
>>
>>2807681
But that's just the thing, we didn't! We actually praised her. The extent to which we mentioned Cherry is that we said she was right when we ourselves were wrong; we said that Cherry *exemplifies Spring*. We didn't shame her, we just made a public apology coupled with a strong compliment.

We did put her in an interesting position though, to either accept our praise or to remain loyal to Natalia. It'll be interesting to see whether she agrees with us or felt forced due to the politics to side with us (as remaining with Natalia would be delicate to not turn into a rejection of our praise, which could ruin her standing and therefore power, as standing is a kind of wealth).

The drama around her is now primarily a path Cherry chose for herself. I don't doubt for a moment that her pause considering the rain was more posturing than actual hesitation. She chose to make a statement with dramatic flair, and with it solidified her own image in a manner of her choosing. That's not something she'll be blaming us for. Perhaps it is something she will thank us for, if only to herself.

I expect she will either accept a truce with us, or respect us as a rival of comparable skill. It could go either way at this point, and that's assuming nothing further happens in the scene. The one thing I'm clear on is that she didn't side with Ramona for our sake; this fits Cherry's own Desire somehow.
>>
>>2804239
Was it >>2798960?
>>
>>2806202
> Remain silent
> Give a tiny head bow, slightly more than a nod, towards Cherry.
>>
>>2807727
> But that's just the thing, we didn't! We actually praised her.
We basically called her out on her hypocrisy in front of the entire court.
>>
>>2806202
> Remain silent

Give a genuinely happy smile of thanks towards Cherry. She might be a bitch, but she's a Good Person. She was trying to save people, and she DID help us out in a way that showed us how to be Spring, not just said it.
>>
>>2808217

You might wanna greentext that if it's meant to be a vote.
>>
Once again I'ma be having Work Problems so I'll update tonight after. Thank ya for your patience.
>>
>>2808132
Hm, a valid perspective I suppose. I hadn't seen at as so clear-cut. The original motivation for Cherry to be supporting Natalia is left unaddressed, and that mystery provides a sort of reasonable alibi that maybe she was doing it for unrelated reasons (e.g. trading favors) and not principled ones, so her current political leaning and our allegations of her principles don't directly conflict.

However, if Cherry herself saw it that way, then yeah she'll probably be pissed at us for calling her out again. Cherry is complicated enough to view the situation both from her own side and from the "public face" side, so without more background on her (especially her Desires or at least immediate goals regarding the Spring crown) it's hard to predict how she'll feel about this. There's a lot of wiggle room for a wide range of reactions still, so it'll be interesting to see how it shakes out.
>>
>>2809747
>The original motivation for Cherry to be supporting Natalia is left unaddressed, and that mystery
She liked Natalia, or her vision more. What other reasons if not that ? Unless she had a falling out with Ramona like she had with us.
>>
Okay let's fuckin' do this.
>>
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>>2806202
An exasperated Doc Ripples finally points at Shipmate Sally; Erin's handler opens her mouth and sings out a clear, high note that carries through the room in hypnotic waves that draw every eye to her. When the only sound is her own singing, Sally lets it drift down into silence, and then points back at the old Beast.

"Is there anyone else whose Desire is to speak and be heard?" Ripples asks.

Eyes go to Natalia's faction, but the tight group has drifted apart physically; some eyes glance at the Emerald Princess, and others keep looking at Cherry. A few, Wizened and Elementals mainly, sway in open worry and anxiety; Woody wrings his hands and won't stop looking over at you in particular.

"I believe I will speak now," Ramona announces. She steps forward and smooths out her dress of soft, living flowers. "If it pleases the Court."

"The Court recognizes its Queen," Doc Ripples agrees formally; he gives Ramona a respectful bow and cedes the floor to her.

"Here we are again," Ramona begins, a gentle smile on her lips. She holds her hands folded in front of herself and looks at the members of her Court, meeting a gaze here, favoring with a smile there. "My rivalry with Natalia has become a fixture of my Court, and it has made us both into better leaders and spurred us both to examine our relationship to Spring, and what that means to us. Natalia, for that and for your friendship, I cannot thank you enough. It is in the name of that friendship that I speak now."

Natalia startles; her hand drifts to the pommel of her saber for a moment, until she remembers herself and visibly backs her tension down.

"We grew up into our Springs together, Natalia. You have changed, so much, and grown so much, since those first days. You've become a cunning politician, a diplomat, a negotiator. You name the high luminaries of other Courts as your allies, or," Ramona nods respectfully to Zoe, "your friends, but your Spring, your renewal, still eludes you."

Queen Rabbit crosses the room and lightly touches Natalia's temple. "It isn't anything wrong here," she murmurs, before her fingers drift to the Princess's hand, "or here. It's here."

Ramona lays her hand over Natalia's heart, and the Emerald Princess puts her own on top of the Queen's; she's shaking like a leaf, eyes wide, other hand now white-knuckling her saber hilt. "Don't," she whispers, though a tight throat.

"You can't light the darkness with a crown," Ramona says in a soft and sorrowful voice. "What happened to us can never unhappen, can never be undone. The renewal you seek is not going to bridge the nothing inside of you, and until you accept that, until you come to terms with the Darkness that calls you its daughter, you will not have your Spring, and you will not be ready to rule my Court."
>>
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>>2813092
Tears well in Natalia's eyes. You step forward when you see that she's squeezing Ramona's hand in a white-knuckled grip, but stop when your liege gestures sharply at you. The Princess doesn't miss it; she lets go and steps back, her heels making a hard snap against the floor.

"I am sorry," Ramona murmurs into the silent room.

"I never wanted your pity!" Natalia's angry shriek, so unlike her unusual melodious voice, draws every eye to her just in time to see her face change; her beautiful features melt away into something pale and drawn, with yellowed fangs escaping lips too small to contain them. It's only a moment, only the briefest of moments.

But it's the moment everyone sees.

"I won't disturb your Spring, Natalia, but I will not sit here and watch you take my Court down with you," Ramona says. "I have let this go on far too long already. I thought you would resent my intrusion into your life."

Natalia takes a shuddering breath in the silence.

Two.

Three.

"I resign as your April Maid. Do your own dirty work," the Emerald Princess says in a ragged voice, and then she storms out, scattering youngbloods too oblivious to get out of her way. She slams the door on her way out, breaking the spell of sheer shock that binds the Court.

The voting is held after, a simple affair involving writing a name on a slip of paper and leaving it in a box. Even at this new swell of membership since the Unmasking, there's not so many Spring Courtiers that they can't be counted and compared to the number of heads in the room. Natalia isn't there to hear that she still has quite a few votes, but Ramona wins the Crown with a rather healthy lead.

You...

> Stick with Ramona (Pass the Time)
> Go to Erin
> Talk to Cherry
> Write-in?
>>
>>2813165
> Talk to Cherry

This is a bad idea, but hey we're an Elemental.

I vote we open by thanking her without saying for what. And if she asks for what... we get confused. I don't know for what.
>>
>>2813165
> Go talk to Natalia

Ask her what she plans on doing now.

Hell we might as well fuck her too.
>>
>>2813592
> Hell we might as well fuck her too.
She eats the souls of the people she sleeps with.
>>
>>2813165
> Write-In
> Try to find and talk to Natalia
I might be in the minority, but feel like it's worth our time to try and help the former Princess. She's a bit like Colors in a way, and I feel that the two of them can connect. I also think that she would appreciate someone who respects and /genuinely likes her/ for more than political maneuvering and favors.

>>2813592
No sleeping with the literal succubus.

..But a kiss might not be out of the question.
>>
>>2813839
It grows back.
>>
>>2813165
>> Talk to Cherry
>>
>>2814326
>>2814326
Personally I think it would be better to tell her that we want to hear more about what her vision of the Court was. Express interest in her views because we respect her even if we didn't side with her.

Note that she said she didn't want Ramonas pity. So we should avoid apologizing, avoid trying to comfort her, etc.

I also want to ask her about being Ramona's "April Maid", what with that crack about no longer doing her dirty work.

If only because I feel that Colours, given her own history, would be empathetic as well as concerned about that position.

I mean, we are rather in a position where we could be a serious candidate for that role due to our skills and relationship with Ramona.

We supported her, but we don't want people to think we are just a hound who found another master. We should be well aware that while Ramona is our benefactor and someone we like and respect as well, she IS still a Ruler. While we haven't dealt with her often in that context, Rook directly confronted us about our and Ramonas positions earlier so I don't think it's unreasonable that Colours would be aware that Ramona the Queen might be different than who she is in private, or that she might have made some moral compromises out of "necessity". Nice doesn't mean good, and vice versa.

Like. Cherry obviously knew about that brothel. Did Ramona? Why did she let it go on? Was it because she wasn't willing to kill until forced, or because it wasn't politically feasible to save the Lost there, or some other reason entirely?

Natalia could help resolve some very real concerns that Colour faced in her past.
>>
> Go talk to Natalia
>>
>>2813165
> Write-In
> Try to find and talk to Natalia

>>2814326

I'm curious if she would even want to sleep with us. I would like to have Erin come with us too, but honestly I don't think that's a good idea right now.

I would like to talk briefly with Erin before we look for Natalia. Just to let her know that we are, and why we are, and what questions we have for Natalia.

Erin might be able to tell us some info about what Natalias deal was, or how to approach her.

Also I want us to ask Erin to wait for us afterwards so we can talk about how it went, and to just hang out.

Erin best girl.
>>
>>2813165
>>Go talk to Natalia
>>
>>2814900
>I'm curious if she would even want to sleep with us. I would like to have Erin come with us too,
A threesome ?
>>
>>2815431
Please no.
>>
>>2813592
>>2815431
Why are you like this.

Called, writing. I must say, was not expecting this vote.
>>
>>2815629
Not expecting us to talk to Natalia?

It's not like she's a bad person, or some kind of opponent. Just because she and Ramona have different ideas about how Spring should be ruled doesn't mean we shouldn't try to be friends with her.
>>
NEW THREAD

>>2815686
>>2815686
>>2815686
>>2815686
>>
>>2815431
No. Because Erin is good at people, and we're not, but it should have been obvious that Natalia isn't too fond of us right now.




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