>>2799221
>>See if you can make that happen.

Good to see you back, Smiley. Thanks for leaving up a message yesterday.

>>2799293
Figured it'd be best to give as much notice as possible, given the amount of time between threads.

>writing

Rolled 26 (1d100)

"I'm gonna head up one of the towers and see what I can do" You say.

You go up to the walkways and run to the northern side of the castle where the towers are, then make your way up the stairs.

From up here you have a clear view of the approaching airships. The lead is slowing down, allowing the ones behind it to catch up and put it in range of their weapons.

They're still pretty far away, but you might be able to do something from here. If you can project your spells that far, then maybe you can make the pursuing ships back off.

You gather the energy around you, and hold your hand out...

>Rol 1d100 with focus

Rolled 31 (1d100)

>>2799363

Rolled 83 (1d100)

>>2799363

Rolled 82 (1d100)

>>2799363
>Quest Beyond the Gate is running at a time I can actually participate a bit
Yyyyeess.

>writing

You launch what is quite possibly the largest soul bolt you've ever fired out at the incoming ships. It goes wide, completely missing the one you were targeting and not even managing to graze the ones behind it.

"Damn" You say. "Accuracy was never quite my thing..."

You raise your hand for another shot, stopping as you see the right way to go about this. You then point your hand a bit further down, at the crest of a hill a ways south of the castle, and fire.

"Well shit, I didn't even consider that" You say.

The bolt hits the hill and just as the lead ship gets past it, the hill erupts into a pillar of soul. All of the closest pursuing ships are forced to make evasive maneuvers, with the foremost of them not doing it quickly enough.

With the pressure off, the lead ship manages to stabilize enough that it looks like they'll make it north of the river... but not much further than that.

As you stand ready to fire again if things look bad, Coral pops out of your shirt looking equal parts confused and excited.

"What's up?" You ask.

Coral points at the ship.

"Yeah, I see it-... wait, is someone you know on there?" You ask.

Coral nods.

"Kinda makes me wish you could tell me who it is..." You say. "Hunters, maybe? Coming from the south... those ships couldn't be the southerners, could they?"

Coral shrugs, and you chuckle.

"Guess I'm asking the wrong person, huh?" You say.

>Head to where the ship is going to crash land

>Head back to the bridge

>Go find Altea

>Other

>>2799481
>>Head to where the ship is going to crash land
Could we teach her how to write?

>>2799481
>Head to where the ship is going to crash land

>>2799481
>Head to where the ship is going to crash land
Glad to see you back Smiley

>>2799481
>Head back to the bridge
At least let people know where we're going first.

>writing

>>2799503
Glad to be back anon

You scribble a quick note for Coral to take down to Meyu and Rhea, then hop off the tower and springboard down towards where you think the ship is going to crash land.

It's a little lower than you were expecting, though. Instead of making it to the field it hits the north bank of the river and comes to a much more abrupt stop than you were expecting.

As you run towards the ship, the Lubrian airships above you move into a defensive position. The enemy ships back off, obviously a bit trigger-shy after your little display of force. Makes you glad they couldn't possibly know that you can't really do that again.

The long range nature of those attacks put most of your gathered soul beyond your reach. You have enough in your reserves to fight normally, but anything big will have to wait until the energy you sent out disperses and comes back.

When you reach the ship there are already people coming off. You don't recognize them, but you do recognize the Hunter's mark on their clothes.

One of them, a young man, calls out for you to stop as you approach. "Hold up now" He says. "You Lubrian?"

"Prince Yuu Gallant" You say. "Hunter?"

The man looks relieved. "Captain James Ream... My name's... a bit less recognizable than yours" He says.

"That's fine, so long as you can fill me in on what's happening here" You say.

"Miss Katherine ordered us to cast off and reach the Lubrian forces as quickly as we could. The other ships have been chasing us since we left Ebiha" James says. "Didn't think we were gonna make it for a bit there..."

"It was certainly a close shave" You say. "But that doesn't explain why you had to flee Ebiha"

"I need to see to my ship, and the ladies can explain that much better than I could" He says.

"What ladies?" You ask.

Someone jumps off the ship and lands gracefully beside you. When they stand up, you see...

"Ilica?" You ask.

"Hey" She says with a slight smile.

>What say/do?

>>2799570
>>Pet her.
>>Eventually tell her we punched the lord.
(Where's Ebiha again? If we don't know, we should ask, but I presume I'm just forgetful.)

>>2799570
>"Ilica, good to see you! Think you could give me short version of what brings you here? I'll be needed back at the bridge soon."

>>2799570

>>2799586
>>2799588
These are good

>>2799586
Ebiha is Emi's home island. You'll get more details in a bit.

>writing

You blink in surprise a few times. "Hey" You say.

The captain nods to you and then climbs back up aboard his ship. The second he's gone, Ilica steps in for a hug. She squeezes you as hard as she can, and you feel her shaking a bit.

"You okay?" You ask.

"As okay as I can be after 3 days of terrifying airship travel" She says.

"Well you're alright now" You say, scratching her under the ear. "Any idea why those guys were chasing you?"

She nods. "The new king of the isles has thrown in with the Legion, and he's going to attack Leon" She says, taking a breath and steadying herself. "Mom sent me up here to warn you guys once she saw them take down her sprite"

"They're attacking Leon?" You ask. "When?"

"Their ships are on the way now" She says.

"The commander needs to hear about this, I-" You're about to let go of Ilica, but stop when she tenses right up.

>Maybe it can wait a minute or two...

>Think we could continue this later?

>Ask for more details

>Other

>>2799639
>Ask for more details
>Carry her to the Comomder
We can't waste time, but kitty needs hugs

>>2799656
Support, we got no time to waste here.

>>2799639
>Carry her to the Comomder
It's not like it's hard for us.

>>2799656
This

>writing

You smile, and give Ilica a squeeze. "You need a minute?" You ask.

"Or two" She replies.

"A little pressed for time right now... I could carry you up to the commander if you'd like" You say.

"Shit, no! I can't leave here just yet. Not without-"

You hear a bit of a scuffle up on the deck, followed by a little shriek and a thud nearby. You turn just in time to see the rest of a long Serpid tail falling to the ground.

"Emi?" Ilica asks, stepping away from you and walking over to the fallen person. "What happened?"

"Emi? She's here too?" You ask.

"I'm here" Emi says, lifting herself up into view. "Ow, ow!"

You rush over to her. "Are you hurt?" You ask.

"No it's- stop that you little- ugh" She replies, clearly frustrated. "I keep telling you not to leave her with me!"

"Leave who?" You ask.

Your question is answered by something small attacking your leg as you approach Emi. It locks on, digs in its claws and starts gnawing...

...

"Why is Vivi here?" You ask.

"Because she's an adorable little shit who likes to go places where she shouldn't" Ilica says, as she plucks the kitten off your leg.

Vivi hisses at her sister.

"Don't give me that. You knew full well that you weren't supposed to sneak into my bag" Ilica says. "But enough about that. We need to see Commander Altea"

Emi nods as she straightens herself up. "Right" Emi says. "We can catch up later... if there's time"

>1/2

You take Emi and Ilica to the tent that Altea is coordinating the attack from, passing others making their way to the crashed airship to provide support along the way.

Emi relays the story as quickly and concisely as she can, to the point where it's pretty obvious that she's been practicing this.

Her story starts when she arrived back home and started trying to drum up support to aid Lubars against the Legion. Her efforts were stymied by the fact that a man named Kameh had been taking over the isles by defeating the lords in single combat while she was away.

Unfortunately Kameh had different plans, and imprisoned her when he heard what she had been doing. But Ilica and Katherine broke her out when they sent off the airship.

Emi is looking pretty down by the time she finishes, but Altea is practically seething.

"Attacking us while our backs are turned..." Altea says.

"What do we do?" You ask.

"We'll never make it to Leon in time. We can send them a warning, but without the automatons..." Altea says. "Damn it..."

"You left out a pretty important bit there Ems" Ilica says.

Emi winces and looks to you with a worried expression.

"What is it?" You ask.

"Well... there is a way..." She says. "Yuu has a right by which he could challenge Kameh to single combat"

"Go on" Altea says.

Emi hesitates, so Ilica takes over.

"That Kou dude you sent tried to take this guy down and failed, but Kameh couldn't take his sword because it belonged to you" Ilica says. "That apparently means something to these people. Like he won, but it wasn't a real victory because he didn't get the sword"

"So if I went to Leon, I could just fight this guy and put an end to this?" You ask.

"Yes..." Emi says.

>Why would you leave that out?

>Well what am I still doing here?

>Is there anything else I need to know?

>Other

>>2799807
>>Why would you leave that out?

>>2799807
>Why would you leave that out?

>writing

"Why would you leave that out?" You ask.

"Because he's... I..." Emi says.

"She doesn't think you can take him and she's worried you'll die trying" Ilica says.

Emi looks down and nods.

"Are spells allowed in these little combat challenge things?" You ask.

She nods again.

"Then I can take him" You say. "I mean, you saw what I did to those airships"

"What? That was you?" Ilica asks.

"Who else would it have been?" You ask.

"Gods I thought that was some kinda new weapon thing" Ilica says. "You've been busy this last month, I guess"

"More than you know" You say.

"Is there anything else to this story?" Altea asks.

"No..." Emi says.

Altea nods. "Would you mind giving us some privacy?" She asks.

"Of course" Ilica says, patting Emi on the shoulder. "Come on"

"I'll see you guys in a bit" You say as they head out.

"You bet" Ilica replies, leaving you with Altea.

You sit in silence with her for a moment, before she speaks. "Not the reunion you were hoping for" She says.

"Not really, no" You say. "I was expecting more hugging and less imminent threats"

"You're confident you can bring this... Kameh down?" She asks.

"I'll need to pick my arena carefully, but I think he'll find it pretty difficult to fight back as a pile of ashes" You say. "Want me to leave now?"

She shakes her head. "If you leave now they'll see you, and either pursue or send warning" She says. "Your eyes work in the dark. Theirs don't. We'll take advantage of that"

>We lose a bit of time that way

>Ask if she's alright

>What about the siege?

>Other

>>2799957
>>Ask if she's alright.
>>Any chance we could make a decoy of us to trick the demons, even for a little while? Dress someone up or any kind of soul energy we could set off that would last a while after we leave?

>>2799957

>Ask if she's alright

>What about the siege?

>>2799957
>Ask if she's alright
Im sure the entire seige cant hinge on us being here, but she knows were not going to let them sack Leon right?

>>2799988
It really seems like things hinge on us and Lyvia quite a lot. But even aside from reasons of morality and compassion, there's no way militarily they can be allowed to occupy Leon behind us.

>writing

>>2800000
Fuckin hella nice get, smiley

>>2800005
I had to read this post 3 times before I realized that you weren't talking about Hella.

"You alright?" You ask.

"I should have seen this coming. Leon is a massive target without the automatons" She says.

"We had the Legion mostly contained. Even I never expected someone to join their camp now" You say.

Altea stands. "Make sure they regret it" She says.

"Of course" You say. "But what about the siege?"

"It'll have to go on hold for now..." She says.

"Just because I'm leaving?" You ask.

She rolls her eyes at you. "Because of the airships" She says. "We no longer have control of the skies. Until we get it back, committing soldiers to the bridge is far too risky"

"Kind of a long delay..." You say.

"So make it as quick as you can" She says. "Now, if you don't need anything else..."

"Lots of work?" You ask.

"Everyone needs new orders" Altea says. "Take a few hours off. Catch up with your friends, eat well, and get some rest. I want you ready to go by sunset"

You nod to her, and head out...

>Go to Ilica and Emi

>Go find Callon

>Check in on Pip

>Other

>>2800057
>Go to Ilica and Emi

>Check in on Pip
If we can do both anyway

>>2800057
>>Go to Ilica and Emi

>writing

Ilica and Emi are nearby, so you walk over to them.

"What's the plan?" Ilica asks.

"I leave as soon as it's dark" You say.

"That's a ways off..." Ilica says.

"We don't want the airships to see me go" You say. "So I've got some time... you guys hungry?"

"Mew" Vivi says.

"That's one. Do I have a 2 and a 3?" You ask.

Ilica and Emi exchange a look. "Yes" Ilica says as they bot stand up. "Food sounds good"

"How are you guys feeling?" You ask.

"Glad to be back on solid ground" Ilica says. "Mom loves airships, and apparently Vivi takes after her in that regard. I am not a fan"

"Mew"

"Emi?" You ask.

"This... this is all my fault" She says.

>I figured it was Kameh's fault

>Why is everyone trying to blame themselves?

>Change the subject

>Other

Stepping out for a minute. Writing will commence when I return.

>>2800221
>Why is everyone trying to blame themselves?

>>2800221
>I figured it was Kameh's fault
>Why is everyone trying to blame themselves?

You didnt create the problem, youre just reacting to it.

>>2800221
>>If I beat him everyone is united behind me though then, right? That's convenient.

>>2800221
>I figured it was Kameh's fault
>Why is everyone trying to blame themselves?

Bit late to the party, but welcome back Smiley! Glad to see you didn't kick it.

That took a bit longer than I anticipated, but now I'm back and
>writing

"Strictly speaking that's not true. The blame for this rests solely on this Kameh dude, no matter what you or the Commander have to say about it" You say. "Seriously, everybody is trying to take the fall for this one"

That gets a smile from Emi, and Ilica changes the subject before she can put herself back down.

"So what have you been up to?" Ilica asks.

"Lots" You say. "Want me to start from the beginning, or is there something you want to hear about in particular?"

"I hear you met back up with Cheska" Ilica says.

"Yep" You say. "Odd bit of luck, ending up on the same team as her. But it worked out well for both of us. She's a human now, by the way"

"She what?" Emi asks. "You mean... not a demon anymore?"

You nod. "She almost died trying to save me when Mahron came out of nowhere in the attack on Lutain, but I kinda broke time to save her back and somewhere in that chain of events she got her heart back"

...

"I have several questions" Ilica says.

>Save all questions for the end

>I only broke time a little

>I'm the Lord of Lutain now

>Other

>>2800473
>Save all questions for the end
>I only broke time a little

>>2800473
>I'm the Lord of Lutain now
Hi Smiley

>>2800473
>I only broke time a little
>I'm the Lord of Lutain now

>>2800473
>>Save all questions for the end
>>I'm the Lord of Lutain now

>writing

"I only broke time a little" You say. "I needed some skills from other versions of me, which ended up being a lot more trouble than I bargained for but I'll get into that later"

"That was question one..." Ilica says.

"Save the rest for later, there's a lot to get through" You say. "I actually own Lutain now, by the way"

"Seriously?" Ilica asks.

"Yeah. After we took the place I threw Baron Graumer into a cell after breaking his nose a few times, then the council decided that I was the only person who they could agree on so they named me lord" You say "The maids were elated to hear that you had survived, by the way"

"They remember me?" She asks.

"Of course" You say. "You should go there, actually. It's nice and safe, and there's a ton of child care stuff for Vivi"

"Yeah, we're kinda runnin' out of diapers..." She says. "Wait... why do you have a ton of child care stuff?"

"I'm turning the place into an orphanage" You say. "I've just got the one right now, well... one and a half. But I'm sure there'll be more"

"How can you have half an orphan?" Emi asks.

"She's a whole person, but she actually worked there when I arrived and kind of works there still" You say. "But her job is mostly just keeping up morale by being adorable, so I sort of count her among the orphans..."

>1/2

You grab a late lunch and sit down with Emi and Ilica in the mess tent, filling them in on whatever they ask about

"So how did you become so close with the Pale Queen?" Ilica asks. "You kinda glossed over that"

"It's because she's actually adorable, and responds well to being hugged, petted, and spoiled" You say.

"Myeh" Vivi says.

"Oh don't even act like we don't spoil you" Vivi says. "I know it's rough right now, but you literally always get what you want"

"Just wait 'till you get to the manor. Lola will get one look at her and be head over heels" You say.

"Lola... lola..." Ilica says. "Floppy ears, dark skin, big uhh... big... you know"

"That Lola, yeah" You say.

"No shit" Ilica says.

>Tell her about Lyvia

>Tell her about the manor

>Tell her about your new abilities

>Other

>>2800608
>>Tell her about Lyvia
>>Tell her about the manor

>>2800608
>Tell her about Lyvia

>>2800608
>>Tell her about Lyvia
We have lots of pictures to show everyone for hours by now, right?

>>2800608
>Tell her about Lyvia

"Oh don't even act like we don't spoil you" Vivi says
oh shit she learned to talk

>>2800646
Fug. You guys know what I meant.

>writing

"Oh, and another cool thing" You say. "Lyvia was around during the time of Caian and the other heroes. It was actually Kukuri who sealed her away in ice so she wouldn't be the one to sacrifice herself"

"Really?" Emi asks.

"And that's not all, she actually wasn't born a human" You say. "She was a huge, powerful monster who got turned into a tiny, adorable girl when Malteris changed all the women into what they are now"

"What does she look like?" Ilica asks.

"White hair, blue-white wings, little blue crystal horns..." You say. "She's behind me isn't she?"

Ilica nods, and a new weight on your back further confirms it.

"Good afternoon, your majesty" You say. "Come to join us for lunch?"

"My strength may be needed should the enemy decide to move, so I'm fitting in a meal where I can" Lyvia says. "Are these your friends?"

You nod. "They were on the ship that crashed" You say. "Ilica, Emi, Vivian, this is Queen Lyvia"

"Greetings" Lyvia says.

"Th-the Queen?" Emi says. "Should we... bow?"

Lyvia shrugs, then leans down and steals some of your lunch as Vivian crawls across the table to investigate the newcomer.

"Ah, another tiny person" Lyvia says, reaching out towards Vivi.

"Careful. This one bites" You say.

Vivi sniffs Lyvia's hand for a second, before pulling her head back, hissing, and swatting it.

"I believe this one wishes to fight me" Lyvia says.

>She does that to everyone

>Please don't fight the baby

>Save it for the legionnaires

>Other

>>2800768
>>Please don't fight the baby

>>2800768

>She does that to everyone
>Please don't fight the baby

>>2800768
>>She does that to everyone

>writing

>>2800768
>>Please fight the baby
>>Prepare the arena

"Please don't fight the baby" You say. "She does this to everyone, and she's probably super stressed out after the whole crashed airship thing"

"She started it" Lyvia says.

Vivi growls, her tail flicking back and forth.

"And you. Maybe try not picking fights with powerful, ancient ice leviathans" You say, poking Vivi on the nose.

She bites you and starts clawing your arm, but you knew that was going to happen.

"Fighting me is only a slightly less bad idea" You say, pinning her to the table with one hand so you can scratch her stomach. "We need to find you someone your own size"

"Mrow" Vivi says, sitting back up and shaking herself off when you take your hand away.

"So how's Derrick doing, anyway?" Emi asks. "Is he here?"

You nod. "He'll probably be with Marybell right now..." You say.

"Do they have some sort of schedule?" Ilica asks.

"No. He's pretty much on top of her all the time now" You say.

"Like... riding her?" Ilica asks.

"Yep" You say.

"Does that mean they're... a thing?" Ilica asks.

"Yep" You say again.

Ilica looks mildly amused by this news, but Emi looks ecstatic. "That's wonderful!" She says. "She must be so happy..."

"She does seem to be. We should finish up here and go find them. I'm sure they'll both be glad to see you guys" You say.

"Well eat up then, man. We're waitin' on you" Ilica says.

You look down and notice that they're both finished. With all the talking, you forgot to actually eat... no big deal though. You can fix that pretty easily...

That's all for tonight!

Next thread will be tomorrow.

I've got another big move coming up soon, as I'm leaving the west coast and going back to Ontario at the end of the month. I'll squeeze in as many thread as I can between now and then, but expect some gaps.

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

>>2800921
Thanks for running

>>2800921
Is that the "some news as to where I've been the last few weeks and what will be happening going forward."?

>>2800937
For the most part, yeah. It's just changes and general shit on my end that will have little effect on the quest with the exception of the new TZ.

>>2800963
Here's hoping the move goes smoothly for you. Thanks for running!

You let Ilica fill you in more on the situation back south while you eat...

"-so after they wouldn't comply, the hunters took over he island" Ilica says.

"The whole island?" You ask.

"It's not a very big island" Ilica says. "Mom and the rest of the experienced fighters stormed the palace and let all the captives out, then when we noticed the island was blockaded and sprites were being shot down we loaded up our quickest available ship and made a break for it"

"Not quick enough apparently" You say.

"Not quick enough is right. You have no idea how happy we all were to see Lubrian banners here. No way we could have pushed on to Lutain" She says.

While Ilica talks about recent events, Emi is trying to find out more about the old war from Lyvia. It's slow going for her, as she hasn't learned that you need a certain level specificity with Lyvia.

Vivi is doing her own thing, slowly inching Ilica's cup towards the edge of the table whenever she thinks no one is looking.

"So who else was being held captive on Ebiha?" You ask.

"Emi, a few hunters, Widows of the lords Kameh killed, basically anyone else who resented his rise to power" She replies. "And resent is a big thing over there right now. Most of their fighters are honor bound to follow Kameh, but a good portion of those dudes don't necessarily like the guy"

"Controversy is inevitable when you rise to the top on a pile of severed heads" You say. "Sounds like if I get rid of him-"

"Don't be mistaken," Emi cuts in. "He has plenty of real support. Killing him may cause just as many as it would solve..."

"But the problems it would solve are all the immediate issues, while the problems it would cause are not" You say. "And if they're not immediate, then we can deal with them after the legion"

Emi looks down. "Y-yeah... you're right..." She says.

...

Okay, there's definitely more to this that she isn't telling you. For all the things she's good at, poker is not one of them. But you can get her alone and ask about that later...

>Anything else you want to say/do before meeting up with Derrick?

>>2802396
Nothing I can think of

>>2802396
nope

>writing

"Well, we should go and-"

You're cut off by the thud of Ilica's glass hitting the ground. Thankfully it doesn't break. Vii sits up and looks quite proud of herself.

"Mew" Vivi says.

Ilica sighs, picks up the glass, and puts it back on the table. "Really?" She asks.

"Mew"

"She obviously wants to be a hunter like you and Katherine" You say. "Glasses are just the first step"

"No, she's just being cross because we left her fort behind..." Ilica says. "I'll explain on the way, let's go"

You take a moment to stack up the plates so they're easier to take away, then scoop up the kitty and head out.

"So... fort?" You ask, giving Vivi head scratches.

"We made her a kitty fort at the Ebiha Isle hunter's hall, since she was so stressed out about moving around so much" Ilica says. "She seemed so content in there, I almost wanted to make one for myself..."

>You're welcome to try it out at my house

>What was this fort made of?

>She seems calm enough

>Other

>>2802486
>>You're welcome to try it out at my house

>>2802486
>What was this fort made of?
>You're welcome to try it out at my house
Kitty fort is a go

>writing

"Was this fort made of something special?" You ask.

"Not really. Just a box and a beat up old pillow" Ilica replies.

"Mew" Vivi says.

"And the sign, right" Ilica says. "There was a little sign on the box stating that it was hers"

"Well you're welcome to rebuild Fort Vivi at my house" You say. "Speaking of which, what is your plan now?"

"Now...?" Ilica asks. "Dunno. Didn't think this far ahead"

"If you'd have me, I'd like to fight by your side again" Emi says.

"And you would be welcome" You say. "Here, that is. I can't take either of you to Leon"

"Planning on taking someone else?" Ilica asks.

"Well my usual travelling partner is in the infirmary, and I don't think anyone else would be comfortable with blitzing across the Antolian countryside in pitch darkness..." You say. "In fact I would be uncomfortable putting just about anyone through that, so no"

"I can understand that" Ilica says. "I'll bring Vivi up to Lutain as soon as I can and make sure she gets settled, then come right back"

"I take it you can handle yourself in a fight now" You say.

Ilica smiles and pats the hand crossbow strapped to her hip. "Not just for show" She says.

>1/2

You find Derrick and Marybell taking a break just outside of the north castle. Derrick isn't riding Marybell at the moment. Rather he's sitting up on a railing to put his head at her level.

"Ilica? Emi?" Derrick calls out. "We just heard about what happened. Are you alright?"

"Peachy" Ilica replies.

Derrick hops down and the two of them meet you halfway. "Is Leon really under attack?" Derrick asks.

Emi nods. "The fleet is en route" She says.

"And so am I" You add. "Later though. Once nobody can see me leaving"

"That's... no offense, but can you really hold back the entire southern fleet?" Derrick asks.

"Not the whole fleet. Due to a technicality I have the right to challenge their leader to single combat" You say. "I will excercise that right, turn him to dust, and be back in time to finish the siege"

Marybell seems to notice something about Emi, and puts a hand on her shoulder. "Mind if we speak in private?" Marybell asks after a quiet couple of moments.

No one objects, and the two of them head out of earshot.

...

Your earshot. Judging from how Ilica's ears are twitching, she can still hear them.

>It's rude to eavesdrop

>What are they saying?

>Ask Derrick if he'sworried

>Other

>>2802579
>It's rude to eavesdrop

also I have to go Smiley so this is my last vote for this session

>>2802579
>>It's rude to eavesdrop

>writing

"Catch" You tell Ilica as you toss Vivi at her head.

Ilica fumbles as Vivi latches onto the side of her face. "J-th-what gives?" She asks.

"It's rude to eavesdrop" You say.

"I can't help it. The ears just turn when they hear a noise that stands out" She says. "Back me up here, Vivi- ow!"

Vivi chews on Ilica's ear, so you give her a hand and take the kitty back.

"Do I want to know why Vivian is here?" Derrick asks. "I can't imagine you brought her on that airship on purpose..."

"Same reason why she was in Bell's Run" You say.

Derrick nods, and the four of you stand in silence for a moment. "So... this is all kind of a huge mess" Derrick says, pointing up at the airships.

"I could conjure a blizzard" Lyvia says. "Cold may not bother the demons, but these southern folk won't last long with my icy breath upon them"

"I thought you needed the devices on your palace to change the weather" You say.

Lyvia looks disappointed. "Curses... I had forgotten that..." She says.

"Worst case scenario, at a glance our warships could take theirs in a brawl" Derrick says. "Theirs are faster and lighter, while ours have heavier armor and armaments. If we fire the opening salvo and catch them flat footed we could take back control of the skies..."

>But...?

>You can tell all that just by looking?

>Let's see if my thing works first

>Other

>>2802652
>But...?
>You can tell all that just by looking?

>>2802652
>But?
If it was that certain we'd be doing it already
>Lets see if my thing works first
we'll call it plan B

>writing

"But...?" You ask.

"Oh, no buts. Just if we make the first move we catch them flat footed" He says. "Whoever strikes first has the advantage here, and if they had charged right in we would've been in real trouble"

"But they stopped, so we have a strategic opportunity" You say.

"I mean, there's probably a good reason why we're not attacking" Derrick says. "I'm sure someone else has thought of this too"

"That's what you said last time you had a good plan, and you were wrong then" You say. "Furthermore, how can you tell all that about their ships just by looking?"

"I can't, not by looking at the ships anyway" He says. "I looked at southern tactics first and foremost. Big bulky ships would have little use to raiders who employ hit and run tactics. And there's the fact that they managed to catch up to a Guild transport"

"Are guild transports fast?" You ask.

"Normally? No" He says. "But that particular vessel design is an emergency dropship for sudden threats. I learned that while we were out at the culling camp"

>Go tell the commander all of this

>Were there airship lessons there?

>I didn't even know there were that many kinds of airships

>Other

>>2802718
>>Were there airship lessons there?
>>Go tell the commander all of this

>>2802718
>I didn't even know there were that many kinds of airships
>Were there airship lessons there?
To be honest Altea doesn't need us telling this to her.

>>2802718
>>Go tell the commander all of this

>writing

"I didn't even know there were that many kinds of airships" You say. "Did the hunters have a course on that sort of thing?"

"No. They were using the emergency dropships out there to get the newer hunters accustomed to them" Derrick says.

"Cool... though you really should tell the Commander all of this" You say. "Worst case scenario she's heard it already and it only costs a few minutes"

"Really?" He asks. "I... guess... when Marybell comes back-"

"I'll tell her where you went" You say.

He nods, and heads off.

"And here I thought he was over his crippling lack of self-confidence" You say, idly scratching Vivi's ears as she purrs contentedly. "He's taken the lead in like 3 different battles at this point. You think that would have given him a boost"

"Was he up on the centaur's back for those 3 battles?" Ilica asks.

"That could be it" You say.

Like she knew you were talking about her, Marybell comes back. She informs you that Emi's not feeling very well, so they'll be back at Marybell's tent. Ilica and Lyvia decide to accompany them, leaving you with the kitten.

It strikes you as a bit odd that all of them would go if it's just Emi not feeling well, but you shrug it off.

"Must be a girl thing" You say.

"Mrow" Vivi replies.

"You have not yet acquired 'girl' status" You say. "Until you learn to talk properly, you are a kitty"

"Mrr..."

>Check in on Pip

>Check in on Callon

>See if you can find Madelaine

>Other

>>2802797
>>Check in on Pip

>>2802797
>>Check in on Pip

>writing

"How would you like to go visit the mouse?" You ask.

"Merr" Vivi replies.

"Well too bad. My legs are doing the walking, so I get to pick the destinations" You say.

You head to the infirmary first, not bothering to check with Coral because you figure she'll still be there... which turns out to be the wrong choice, as they discharged Pip to her own tent as she was pretty much good to go, and they needed space for the injured from the fight and the crash.

When you get to your tent, you find Pip propped up on about a dozen pillows reading a book that you can tell falls into the usual 'cheesy romance' category with just a glance at the cover.

"I hope I'm not interrupting" You say as you step in.

Pip looks up from the book with a smirk. "Not really. This book is actually pretty bad" She says. "Like 'uses the word luscious 3 times in 1 paragraph' bad"

"Yet you were still reading" You say.

"Easier to trudge through than to go get a new book" Pip says, pointing to Vivi. "I see you found a friend"

"She was on the airship. Ilica left her with me when they all went to Marybell's tent because Emi wasn't feeling well" You say.

"Ahh. Girl talk" Pip says.

"I take it you've heard what's happened" You say.

"I got the gist of it. Hunter airship crashed, southern seafleet moving on Leon, southern airfleet holding the skies to the south" Pip says. "Any idea what the plan is?"

"The plan..." You say as you sit down beside her. "Is that I'm going to Leon to fight the southern leader in single combat, and hopefully that'll be enough to convince them all to go home"

"Magic's allowed in southern duels, so he won't stand much of a chance" She says. "Don't get cocky though. Your big hits take a second to charge, and southern sword-mages are renowned for their speed. If he's strong enough to unite the isles, he can make a lot happen in one second while you're still gathering power"

>Ask if she's got any other tips

>Ask if she's well enough to come along

>Ask if she wants you to get her a different book

>Other

>>2802877
>Ask if she's got any other tips
>Ask if she wants you to get her a different book
Gotta head to bed, it's almost 4 A.M here.
Thanks for running Smiley!

>>2802877
>>Ask if she's got any other tips

>>2802877
>>Ask if she's got any other tips
>>Ask if she wants you to get her a different book

>writing

"Got any other tips?" You ask.

"Based on what I know about southern duels? Uhh..." She puts her book down and purses her lips. "Low blows are allowed, so feel free to go for the nads... aaaand the fight doesn't end until one person has lost their sword..."

"So it's not a fight to the death?" You ask.

"Nope. In fact, even if you kill your opponent it's not a win until the sword has left his hands" She says.

"So what happens if someone like... ties their hands to their sword, cuts them off, and throws them somewhere their opponent can't get them?" You ask.

"That has actually happened, if I remember right" She says. "While it does count as 'not losing your sword', it is considered a dick move and I'm pretty sure they executed the guy who tried it, then left his sword in the ocean"

"How about this then?" You ask, floating your mageblade around without activating it.

"Nope. Sword's gotta be in your hands. Just cause-"

Pip gets cut off as Vivian pounces at the floating blade, misses, then starts hopping around until she comes to a stop and tries to pretend that never happened.

...

"Just cause you don't need your hands, doesn't mean they wont DQ you on a technicality" She says.

"Gotcha" You say. "Is there anything I can do for you?"

"I could use some entertainment, if you feel like... I dunno, getting me a new book or something" She says. "One that isn't quite so 'luscious'..."

>Do that now

>I can keep you company for a bit

>Vivi is entertaining

>Other

>>2802975
>>Vivi is entertaining
>>Do that now

>>2802975
>>Do that now

>writing

"Vivi is entertaining" You say. "Make a little mote of like and she'll chase it around for hours"

"Like..." Pip does just that, making a little technicoloured puff of light. "This?"

As you expected, Vivi's eyes lock onto it as Pip moves it around. The kitten approaches cautiously, slowly reaching out a paw... before Pip suddenly makes it flash, causing Vivi to flip the hell out.

"Okay this is fun... but I don't give it very long" She says.

You tap Pip under the chin and grab her book as you stand back up. "Your stuff is back with the supply carts, right?"

She nods. "While you're out there, think you could just bring my extra bag? I've got some other stuff in there that I'd like to break out since I've got the night off" She says.

>So long as it isn't heavy...

>What kind of stuff?

>Will do

>Other

>>2803053
>>Will do

>>2803053
>>Will do
>>What kind of stuff?

>writing

So anyone for getting some sword practice in before we have to head out, now that we know weve got to keep our Mageblade in hand and our opponent has to do the same? We might be able to figure out a game plan.

Where's our spider assassin bodyguard? Shouldn't she be coming with us at least to protect us from the dishonorable scum that may try to interfere in our duel?

"Will do" You say. "I'll be right back"

You head out to the supply carts and after some searching and asking around, you find the one with Pip's bag in it. It is... not what you were expecting. It's bright pink, which contrasts pretty much everything you have ever seen Pip wear, use, or own.

When you get back to the tent, Pip is still engrossed in playing with Vivi.

"I never thought pink was your color" You say, as you place the bag next to her.

"I'm allowed to like girly things" She says, letting the light dissipate and leaving Vivi looking around in confusion.

"Mew" Vivi says.

"I don't think I've ever even seen you look at something pink" You say.

"I like to wear it where nobody can see. Easier to hide when you wear grey, but it's such a dull color" She says, as she rifles through her bag for something.

"So what... all your underwear is pink with like... flowers and stuff?" You ask as you sit over on your own bedroll.

"Not all, but I'm ninety... nine percent sure that describes what I'm wearing right now" She says, before turning to you with a shocked expression. "You didn't peep on me while I was getting dressed, did you?"

>Why would I do that?

>You caught me

>Lucky guess

>Other

>>2803115
>>You caught me

>>2803115
>>Lucky guess

>>2803115
>>Lucky guess
>>The primary charm points for all girls in this world are on display without peeping anyway.

>writing

You shrug. "Lucky guess. Besides, all the things I like most are the things you don't hide under your clothes" You say, picking up Vivi as an example. "The little ears, tails, paws... stuff like that. It's the cutest"

"Yeah I didn't peg you for a peeker anyhow" She says, before not-so-subtly pulling out her waistband to check her panties. "And whaddya know? Guess I'm wearin' the 1% panties tonight"

...

"I'm not sure I follow... does that mean you were wrong, or are these ones somehow special?" You ask.

"1% as in 'I was 99% sure, and I was wrong'" She says. "I don't think I own any special panties... what would those even look like anyway?"

You shrug again and lounge back, trying and failing to ignore the fact that Vivi is gnawing on your hand. "Alright you, I know it's stressful but you need to chill out" You say.

Vivi growls in response.

"How about this..." You say, sitting up straight and getting to work wrapping her in your blanket. "This worked last time... I think"

You remember back in Bell's run how you could keep her relatively calm when you wrapped her in your cloak, so you do the same with your blanket. The effect is immediate. She stops with the biting and scratching and starts to purr...

"Okay that's pretty dang cute" Pip says.

You raise an eyebrpw at her.

"What? I'm not made of stone" She says.

>Wanna hold her?

>Ask what she thinks special panties would look like

>Ask what she wanted from her bag

>Other

>>2803223
>Ask what she wanted from her bag

>>2803223
>>Wanna hold her?
>>Ask what she thinks special panties would look like
>>Ask what she wanted from her bag

>>2803223
>>Ask what she wanted from her bag

>writing

"So what did you want from that thing anyway?" You ask.

"Books, mostly. But there's also..." She says, going back to rifling through the bright pink bag. She eventually pulls out a layered onesie, with the inner layer being dark-ish yellow, and the outer layer being lighter yellow with randomly sized and placed holes in it. "These"

...

"Is that... Are those cheese pajamas?" You ask.

Pip smiles and nods. "Lululu got them for me like... a year ago, but I'd never be caught dead wearing them out where people can see me. Which is why I'm putting them on now, because I'm off the hook for any night time crises due to my injury"

"How are you feeling now, anyway?" You ask.

"Better" She says. "They patched up the wound as well as they could and cleared all the blood out of my lungs. Full healing will wait until I've gotten some rest and regained my strength"

"How did they clear the blood out... blood magic?" You ask.

"Water. They do this thing where they flood the lung with liquid, pull it all back out, then fill it with air again" She says. "Strangest god damn thing I've ever felt, but it did the trick"

>... does blood magic exist?

>How did it feel?

>Back to the cheese pajamas...

>Other

>>2803304
>>... does blood magic exist?

>>2803304
>>... does blood magic exist?

>>2803304
>>... does blood magic exist?

>writing

"Well so long as it did the trick..." You say, scratching the now sleeping Vivi between the ears. "Hang on... is blood magic a thing?"

"Not really" Pip says. "Apparently blood is kinda special somehow? Lululu knows more than me on this subject. Ask her if you get the chance"

"Gotcha" You say.

"Anyway, either shut your eyes or get out. I wanna put these on" Pip says.

"Seriously?" You ask. "Man, I just got comfortable"

"So close your eyes" Pip says. "I ain't goin' all the way to another tent just t get changed"

You sigh, and then-

>get going

>shut your eyes

>Other

>>2803366
>>get going

>>2803366
>shut your eyes
we *were* given a choice

>>2803366
>>shut your eyes
Its a good time to relax

>>2803366
>>get going

>>2803366
>shut your eyes
>Relax, zone out a bit and try to think about the upcoming fight
>Try not to think about the naked mouse
>TRY NOT TO THINK ABOUT THE NAKED MOUSE

>>2803366
>>shut your eyes

>writing

"Alright" You say, laying back and shutting your eyes. "Go ahead"

"Cool" She replies.

You hear the sound of her grunting as she stands and secures the tent flap, then you hear her getting to work. With nothing better to do, you count the number of things you hear her discard...

"Are you getting all the way naked?" You ask.

"Of course. I'm not gonna wear underwear under my pajamas like some weirdo" Pip says. "And why in the gods' name would I keep my bra on if I'm goin' for comfort?"

"You were still wearing a bra? I figured you'd have lost it after the injury" You say.

"Oddly enough..." Pip says, as you hear her stepping into the onesie. "The bolt missed my bra completely. Struck too low for it, so they didn't even have to remove the bloody thing"

"Wasn't it well... bloody?" You ask.

Pip steps back over to the pile. "A little bit, now that I'm looking more closely..." She says. "But I wasn't about to take it off. Removing the bra is a commitment"

"How so?" You ask.

"It's like a statement that you won't be doing anything afterward where your nipples poking out a bit will bother you, or having to worry about too much bounce-age... not that I ever really have to worry about that" She says.
...

"Is that... a big commitment?" You ask.

"Hey man, even little commitments can be scary sometimes" She says. "You can open your eyes now"

"I know for a fact that you aren't dressed yet" You say.

Pip lets out a knowing laugh. "I knew you were listening for that" She says.

"Are you almost done?" You ask.

"Nope" She says. "This might be a while longer, in fact. I've never worn these before so it never occurred to me that they don't have a tail-hole... shouldn't take too long to cut one, so just get comfy"

>1/2

"Okay. Now you can open your eyes" She says.

This time you're pretty sure it's safe, so you open up and look around.

"How do I look?" Pip asks, giving a little twirl.

"Cheesy" You say.

"There's the response I was hoping for" She says, as she collapses back into her pillows. "So did you peek?"

"Nope" You say.

"Good man" Pip says. "Not that I'm hidin' anything particularly impressive under my clothes, but I still appreciate that my trust was rewarded"

"Just so long as you give me the same consideration if our roles are ever switched" You say.

"Might as well just do things this way. Beats havin' to wait outside" She says.

"So is taking your bra off actually that much of a commitment?" You ask. "I'm still stuck on this..."

"I dunno about most girls, but for me it is. I keep stuff in there, man" Pip says, leaning over to her pile of discarded clothes to grab her slightly bloodstained pink bra with little hearts all over it. She turns it toward you and peels back the inner lining to reveal a hidden compartment in each cup. "See? Not just underwear. I've got a little knife here, this little pocket has multi purpose chewing gum, these things let off a strong smell when you crack 'em, lock picks, wire..."

"You sure load a lot of stuff into a small space" You say.

She shrugs and tosses the bra back into the pile. "There's room for it" She says, poking herself in the chest. "People rarely assume I'm hiding stuff in there, so I basically get to carry my kit everywhere. The only downside is that it's kinda hard to subtly pull something out of your bra"

You nod. "I could see that" You say. "Is there a male equivalent of the utility bra?"

"None that you'd want to use..." She says. "Although I did know I guy who kept stuff clenched between his butt cheeks..."

>I'll stick to having my stuff in plain sight

>I could pull that off

>Do I want to know?

>Other

>>2803494
>>I'll stick to having my stuff in plain sight

>>2803494
>>I'll stick to having my stuff in plain sight

>>2803494
>>I'll stick to having my stuff in plain sight

>writing

"I'll stick to having my stuff in plain sight, thanks" You say.

"I might give it a shot. With my tail it'd be easier take stuff out..." She says. "But harder to walk naturally... on second thought nevermind"

You chuckle, and sit in silence for a while.

"So you're actually gonna ride all the way to Leon and challenge this dude to a duel, huh?" She asks.

"That is the plan" You say. "Why, something wrong?"

"No. It's what has to happen" She says. "I'm just wondering if I could find some sucker dumb enough to bet against you at this point so I can net some gold from this"

"I'll take that as your roundabout way of saying you believe in me" You say.

"Hey, you're a safe bet these days" She says. "Just don't do anything risky, and remember what I told you"

"I will" You say. "Did you really send me out to get that bag just for the cheese pajamas?"

"And my emergency chocolate" She replies. "Want some?"

"Hey if you're willing to share, I'm not about to turn down chocolate" You say.

Before Pip can reply, someone taps on the entrance to the tent.

"Anyone in there?" Ilica asks.

"Yep" You reply.

"Can I come in?" Ilica asks.

"Sure" Pip says.

Ilica reaches in and undoes the tie keeping the flap shut, then pokes her head in. "Oh, good. She is with you" Ilica says. "She sleeping?"

"Like a baby" You reply. "Well... not like a baby, since she is a baby... but yes. Sleeping"

"Is it cool if I leave her with you for the night?" Ilica asks.

"Sure... is something wrong?" You ask. "Emi's not hurt, is she?"

"Not... on the outside" Ilica says.

"Oh... well alright. If this helps" You say.

"Thanks. I'll see you a bit later, okay?"

You nod, and Ilica pops back out, tying the flap back into place as she goes.

"You saw that too, right?" Pip asks.

"Yeah, definitely something I'm not being told" You say, as you lay back. "I got the same vibe from Emi earlier as well"

"You okay with that?" Pip asks.

>I'm sure they'll tell me eventually

>Not really

>Only when it's so obvious

>Other

>>2803532
>I'm sure they'll tell me eventually

>>2803532
>>Not really

>>2803532
>>Not really
>>I'm sure they'll tell me eventually

>>2803532
>Not really

>>2803532
>I'm sure they'll tell me eventually
But I kind of wish they'd be up front with me about there being a problem from the beginning.

>>2803532
>I'm sure they'll tell me eventually
>They're probably keeping it from me for my own benefit. It's troubling, but dwelling on it will probably bite me.

>writing

>>2803532
>>I'm sure they'll tell me eventually
No harem route so a death match was inevitable

Taking bets now,
1. This guy is Emi's brother.
2. This guy is Emi's ex-fiance.
3. This guy is Emi's childhood friend.
4. This guy killed Emi's family because of something Emi did.

>>2803565
I'll put $50 down on 1

"Not really... I kinda wish they'd just be up front about it but I'm sure they have their reasons" You say. "If anything, knowing them the secrecy is for my own benefit. So digging where I shouldn't will just come back to bite me"

Pip raises her head to look at you. "That's really mature of you, Yuu. If it were me I'd be out there listening outside their tent" She says.

"In your cheese pajamas?" You ask.

"Well obviously I'd change first" She says. "Although the pajamas give me a reasonable amount of deniability. Would you believe someone if they told you they saw me eavesdropping outside your tent dressed like this?"

"Probably not, no" You say.

"Exactly" She says. "Now, open your mouth"

You do as she asks, since you already know what she plans to do. After holding your mouth open for a few seconds, a piece of chocolate comes flying into it.

"Nice toss" You say.

"Thanks" She replies. "You sure you should be so relaxed? Don't you have a trip to plan?"

You shrug. "Not like there's too much detail to it" You say.

"You know how to get to Leon from here?" She asks.

"Kinda... maybe... no not really" You say.

Pip rolls her eyes. "Bring your map over here" She says. "I can give you a hand with this, at least..."

"Much appreciated" You say, pulling the hunter's map out of your pocket as you get up and head over to Pip.

"Alright let's see... your best bet is over here..."

That's all for tonight!

Next thread will be tomorrow, starting around the same time.

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

>>2803553
I feel like lately the spirit of this rule has been violated.

>>2803565
$100 on 2-4 CLEAN SWEEP!

>>2803570
Thanks for running

>>2803570
So is the alt universe Yuu Maddie and the other one I forgot his name come from the exact same as ours because I'm kinda hoping for a mad max post or during apocalypse kind of thing.

You sit next to Pip and cradle the sleeping Vivi as she points out the various ways you could get to Lubars from here. There are plenty, but she's clearly trying to work one out that's both fast and reliable.

"So follow the river to here... take the left fork around here..." You say.

"And that should take you right to Locke. You know the way from there, I assume" She says. "Now remember, these roads are old as fuck so expect some bumps. Also there may or may not be a bridge over this river on the border, so you could endup having to track north for a bit to find one"

"I guess nobody really does maintenance on roads and bridges along a hostile border" You say.

"Along the border? Yes. Across the border? No" She says. "I had a spot around here where I used to keep a little raft, but that was hit or miss even when I used it pretty frequently so you're better off finding a bridge"

"I could always make a ramp and jump it like a badass" You say.

"Whatever works" She says. "So long as you don't cock it up, yeah?"

"I've made jumps like this before" You say.

"I heard. Madelaine says you nearly killed her" She says.

"She's just being dramatic. I had it handled" You reply, as you fold the map back up and put it away.

"Yes well not everybody handles well on those wheels of yours" Pip says.

"It's pretty much just you and Ilica who seem to enjoy riding on it" You say.

Pip shrugs, and pops another chocolate into her mouth. "So what's your plan now?" She asks. "If you're leavin' at dark then you've got a few hours, but I imagine you'll want to rest up a bit and stuff before then..."

>Now's a good time for a nap

>I'm fine with relaxing here for a bit

>I should go check in on Callon...

>I should go make some actual preparations

>Other

>>2804587
>I'm fine with relaxing here for a bit

>writing

You lounge back into Pip's pile of pillows. "I could relax here a bit longer. No need to risk waking the kitty by moving around" You say.

"Suit yourself" She replies. "You thought about any snappy 1-liners for your fight?"

"Not really" You say. "Do I need them?"

"Hey man, nothin' humiliates a person quite like gettin' zinged in their moment of defeat" She says. "You could go like... uhh... 'didn't see that Kameh-n?'... or something"

You shake your head.

"Alright, it's not my best work. I'l admit" She says. "Think about it. You have an entire day and night of riding to come up with something. Make it worth putting into the history books"

"You think they'd actually write it into the history books?" You ask.

"If it's good enough, yeah" She says. "And keep it kid friendly too"

"Well as you said, I've got time" You say.

It's quiet for a moment, with the exception of Vivi's constant purring.

"She really likes that blanket wrap thing you've got there" Pip says.

"I figured if it worked with my cloak back in Bell's Run, it'd work with a much softer blanket here" You reply.

"May I?" Pip asks, holding her hands out.

"You want to hold the kitty?" You ask.

"Well I ain't reachin' for your belt buckle" She replies. "Come on, it's not like I'm gonna drop her"

You chuckle and hand Vivi over to Pip. "You've got sure hands, I'm not worried" You say.

>1/2

Pip takes Vivi and starts scratching her under the ear. Vivi responds by working her paws free and kneading Pip's chest.

"Should I be concerned about this?" Pip asks.

"Nah, it's a kitty thing. Means she's happy" You say.

"Okay. Just so long as she doesn't dig those claws in too deep..." She says. "So uhh... bit of an awkward question..."

"Shoot" You say.

"You put any thought into your girl situation lately?" Pip asks. "Without naming names, I know quite a few ladies who are into you. You may have to pick one eventually"

>And if you had to name names?

>I can worry about that after we're done

>And I will, when I'm ready

>Other

>>2804769
>I can worry about that after we're done
>And I will, when I'm ready

I've got work smiley, so i wont be able to vote again

>>2804774
Support, the war effort needs most of our attention and matters of love are not to be rushed.

>>2804769
>I can worry about that after we're done
>And I will, when I'm ready
>Just to ask, though, what would you do in my shoes?

>writing

"I'll worry about that when we're done with all this. I need to keep my head in the game" You say. "And to be honest... I'm just not ready"

"I can respect that" She says, handing you a chocolate and taking one for herself.

...

"You don't have money riding on this, do you?" You ask.

"No. That was a joke from way back" Pip says. "You never gamble with a gal's heart"

"Words to live by" You say. "Out of curiosity..."

"You wanna know who I was talking about?" She asks.

"Actually no" You say. "I was wondering what you'd do in my shoes"

"Well for one your shoes are a little too big for my feet" She says. "That is both a joke, and a metaphor about how I've never been in a position like yours"

"Very well put together" You say.

"Just like your shoes" She replies. "But yeah... you've got like 6 or 7 gals pinin' for you, and I don't even think I know that many dudes. So it's hard to guess what I'd do"

"Just guess" You say.

"Alright... well... you already know my feelings on commitment... so what I'd probably do is start shutting people out as I learn that their feelings for me go beyond friendship, out of fear that I'll fuck up our relationship" Pip says. "All the while not realizing that my fear of ruining my relationships is ruining my relationships until it's too late and all my friends have moved on leaving me to die cold and alone"

...

"How's that?" She asks.

>... do you need a hug?

>Try again, but less depressing this time

>Well it's a good example of what not to do...

>Other

>>2804851
>... do you need a hug?

>>2804851
>... do you need a hug?
There can be no other reaction to that, jeez.

>>2804851
>... do you need a hug?

>writing

"That was... do you... do you need a hug?" You ask.

She shrugs. "I'll take one if you're givin' 'em"

You're at an awkward angle for a normal hug, so you put an arm over her shoulder. She turns towards you and leans her head into your chest.

"So yeah... don't do that" She says. "Y'know that probably explains why I have so few friends..."

"It was also depressing as hell" You say.

"Just a little" she replies. "I don't know if that's actually what would happen, but just... knowing me, Y'know?"

"You know I'm sure you could find someone if you put yourself out there" You say. "You're young, good looking, easy to talk to..."

"I'm also pretty well known, and there's no way to tell if the dudes I'd catch were the ones who like me for me, or if they like me for who they thought I was" She says.

"Only 1 way to find out" You say.

"I'm fine not openin' that box" She says. "Dates and stuff don't seem to be my kinda thing"

"You wouldn't want to get taken out for a nice dinner? Maybe wear a nice pink dress?" You ask.

"That'd look ridiculous" She says.

"Says the girl wearing cheese pajamas" You reply.

...

"Fuck" She says.

"Thought so"

"Mew"

"Oh, look who's awake" Pip says.

Vivi paws at Pip's hand, bringing it up to her mouth to nip at it.

"Okay, what does that mean?" Pip asks.

"She's probably hungry" You say.

"That makes 2 of us, kitty-cat" Pip says, looking down at her clothes. "Damn it, if I want food I'll have to change..."

>Go get food for the 3 of you

>Good luck with that

>Other

>>2804943
>>Go get food for the 3 of you

File: 2dd.jpg (14 KB, 300x300)

14 KB JPG

>>2804943
>Go get food for the 3 of you

Pip has rapidly risen on my ranking system for the past few threads
I don't know how long I can hold out against those feminine wiles, fellas

>>2804943
>Go get food for the 3 of you

>>2804948
Pip literally got stabbed in the stomach for us, but I'm still holding on to her being our best bro and general confidant while Derrick is pre-occupied.

>>2804948
She's not even putting on the wiles. She just feels very comfortable around Yuu.

>writing

File: 9f9.png (1.49 MB, 1065x902)

1.49 MB PNG

>>2804966
>She isn't even trying
>Still hits all of my weak points flawlessly
I yield, I yield!

>>2804948
I really prefer her as a friend character. All the men we know have extremely needy girlfriends now.

"Sit tight, I'll grab you some dinnner" You say, letting go of Pip so you can stand up. "Any preference?"

"I'm in the mood for like... breakfast" She says. "If you can somehow bring me... eggs, bacon, and toast, I shall be eternally grateful"

"I could probably manage that... what about you, Vivi?" You ask.

"Mew" Vivi says.

"Much simpler. See you two in a bit" You say as you head out, tying the flap closed behind you so nobody who passes by will see Pip's cheesy wardrobe.

As you make your way to the mess tent you consider some different jokes you could make about that onesie, settling on a decent one about how you were going to ask for a cheese omelette but figured she wouldn't want more of something she was literally covered in.

Not your best work, but it should get a laugh.

The cooks are glad to fill Pip's request, but you'll have to go bug Ilica if you want a bottle for Vivian. Looking around the hall you see Meyu sitting alone. He looks perfectly happy without company, but that doesn't mean you can't bug him...

>Go see Ilica

>Go bug Meyu

>Wait here

>Other

>>2805010
>>Go see Ilica
Maybe she'll spill something too on why they're all worked up.

File: 1332415.jpg (24 KB, 540x472)

24 KB JPG

>>2805007
I guess.
I just think that Pip deserves a chance to have more than just a friend.
>>2805010
>Go see Ilica

>>2805010
>>Go see Ilica

>>2805010
>>Go bug Meyu
He's closer.

>>2805020
Sure. I think the best thing we could do though is find her someone else. I feel like we know too much about each other's relationships and also we are not good for her. She has a significant inferiority complex and we are going to overshadow her to the point she constantly wonders why she is here. Pip needs her own identity that does not involve being an accessory to the royal family.

>writing

>>2805037
You're just saying that because you're gunning for a different waifu, I bet.
Not that I'm saying you're wrong, I just have to question your motives like any good goyim would.

>>2805048
Honestly, Pip is a bit high maintenance. I don't think she needs a lover, but a friend. Derrick's crippling self doubt wasn't solved (rather, in the process of being improved) by us trying to get in his pants.

Entering a relationship with her when she's in such a downer state can make her problems worse in basically as many ways as we could make it better.

>>2805061
To be fair, you can't prove that Yuu getting into Derrick's pants WOULDN'T solve his issues.
Jokes aside though, I was never advocating for a relationship with her RIGHT NOW. She's not ready for it, and Yuu isn't ready for it. And there's a big war going on, like Yuu himself pointed out when talking about relationship shit earlier.
Any serious (theoretical) action between him and pip would be a good deal in the future, I think. And in the future, there's a good chance that both her and yuu would have their shit together by a large margin, enough that it's viable to actually consider something like that between them.

Instead of waiting around for your meals to come, you figure now is a good time to get get Vivi's stuff. So you let one of the staff know what's up so they don't think you've disappeared, and head off to Maybell's tent.

Fighting back the urge to eavesdrop, you tap on the entrance. You're surprised as Madelaine's head pops out...

"Oh hey" Madelaine says. "What brings you here?"

"Is Ilica in there?" You ask.

"Gimme a sec..." Madelaine says, slipping back inside.

After a bit of whispering, Ilica's head pops out.

"What's up?" She asks.

"Vivi is awake and she's hungry. I don't suppose you've-"

"Oh! Of course" Ilica says, as she too slips back inside. Her hand pops out a moment later to hand a bottle off to you, then she pokes her head back out once you've taken it. "Luckily I had that in my bag... did you need something else?"

>Just this

>Ask if Emi's problem has to do with you

>How many people are in that tent right now?

>Other

>>2805067
>How many people are in that tent right now?

>>2805067
>>Just this
>>How many people are in that tent right now?

>>2805067
>>How many people are in that tent right now?

>>2805067
>>How many people are in that tent right now?

>writing

>>2805048
I will readily admit I have always supported Namaki. That said,I like to think my decision is based on what is good for the character and narratively makes sense to me. One of my first considerations with a spouse in a society where you have lines of nobility as well as people who are just vastly stronger in magic is some kind of parity in the relationship. Even if we don't apply that standard, the rest of society will and our spouse probably will as well. Pip has already been harmed by this, and she is thus going to be particularly aware of it. Which is why I think it is best if we try to find way to elevate her in a way that is personal to her and not to us.

Admittedly, my theory does limit our selections. There are only really two women who have magical power that can be considered in our league - Lyvia and Namaki. There are quite a few more with status in the high nobility, royalty, or similarly high organizations that can bring some kind of skill or connections we lack. This has always been the in for the -ellas and Emi. Realistically most of the other nobles do not have the personal in with us and are not contenders right now. None of the nobles really have the power parity interestingly. The only one who knocks both boxes out of the park is Lyvia, but we cultivated a different relationship with her.

>>2805092
I enjoy Namaki and used to be on the Namaki train (mostly for ability synergy and the fact that she's one foxy lady if i'm being honest), but I feel we've built up a much stronger bond with other people than her so far. It's a little hard, at this juncture, for me to see Yuu ending up with her in a long-term/permanent manner. They get along well, and hell, there's even some tension there, but it currently feels pretty weak compared to some of the other potential waifus.

>>2805103
The primary reason for that is Namaki has been absent from the plot other than our letter-writing campaign. Not that this is unjustifiable, we knew she would not leave town without extreme circumstances, it's just a fact.

I don't think anyone has particularly made progress though since then. Lyvia daughter-zoned herself after initial interest (I think if she was five years older mentally and physically she'd have won by now and any choice would be a formality). Cheska's character arc end ironically ended up wrecking her primary means of sticking around with us. Lianna has been pursued, but ultimately she can't be married. I don't feel like anything has really changed with Madeline either, despite what happened.

"Out of curiosity, how many people are in there?" You ask.

"Like 5... or 6..." Ilica says, poking her head back in for a second before re-emerging. "Emi, Me, Madelaine, Marybell, Lyvia, Lulu... and that's it"

"I didn't think you could fit 6 people into these tents..." You say.

"It's tight" Ilica says. "How's Vivi doin' anyway?"

"Pretty good. Like I said she's been sleeping up 'till now. Pip's watching her for the moment while I'm out grabbing food" You say.

"How is she with her?" Ilica asks.

"Surprisingly good" You say. "You'd think a mouse and a kitten wouldn't get along so well, but she seems to be full of surprises today..."

Ilica giggles. "Let me know if you need anything else, okay?" She asks.

You nod, and she slips back into the tent. You stand there for a moment wondering how they fit so many people inside, before heading back to the mess tent.

...

Seriously. 6 regular girls you could understand, but both Emi and Marybell take up quite a bit of space. The only way you could see it working is if Emi's tail went around the edges so everyone could sit on it... but then where does Marybell go?

You shake your head and push thoes thoughts aside. It might bother you, but the logistics of fitting a Serpid and a Centaur into one of those tents is not important.

When you get back to the mess tent, they've finished making what you asked for. So you thank them and head back...

>1/2

When you get back, you stop outside the tent door to shift your things around so you can untie the flap. As you do, you stop and listen...

You can hear Pip talking to Vivi in a cutesie tone, getting little 'mews' in response. That only lasts for a few seconds, as Pip hears you trying to stifle your laughter.

"Who was it that said it was rude to eavesdrop?" Pip asks.

"It was me" You say, as you open up the tent and step in. "In my defense, I did not plan on eavesdropping"

"Suuuuuuure" She says.

You hand her her dinner and sit down. "It's pretty plain. I was gonna ask them to make a cheese omelette, but I figured you have enough cheese" You say.

"Be honest. How long did it take you to come up with that?" She asks.

"A couple minutes" You say.

"That's fair" Pip says.

"Mew"

"Yes, we got some for you too..." You say, taking the little bundle from Vivi so Pip can eat. You're pretty exprienced with the whole bottle feeding thing at this point, so it's a simple thing to get Vivi set up.

"So..." You say.

>I thought you hated kids

>Ask about your tent conundrum

>I take it you enjoyed yourself while I was gone

>Other

>>2805179
>>I take it you enjoyed yourself while I was gone
>>Ask about your tent conundrum

>>2805179
>I take it you enjoyed yourself while I was gone
>Ask about your tent conundrum

>>2805179
>>Ask about your tent conundrum

>writing

The more the girls talk about this in increasingly large groups, the less I think this guy is Emi's childhood friend and more that we're going to be the butt of the joke of some archaic law if we beat him.

"I take it you enjoyed yourself while I was out" You say.

Pip shrugs as she munches on some bacon. "Kitty's surprisingly easy to please, and her reactions to just about everything are hilarious" Pip says.

"Yeah she's pretty dang cute" You say, pausing for a moment before continuing... "So I was wondering if you could help me with something..."

"What's up?" She asks.

"When I went to see Ilica to get the bottle, they had 6 people in that little tent" You say.

"6 including Emi and Belly?" She asks.

You nod.

"How the hell did they manage that?" She asks.

"That's what I was wondering" You say.

"I think the real question is: what are they doing in there, having a group therapy session?" Pip asks. "Is Emi's issue bad enough to require 5 friends to sort it out?"

"Who knows?" You ask.

"I'd say I would go over and scout for you, but then I'd have to get changed again and I'm just not feelin' that concerned" Pip says.

"I understand" You reply. "Maybe Coral could scope it out for me"

Coral pops out of your collar, looking enthusiastic as ever.

"Except you couldn't relay any ifo back, so you just sit tight" You say, patting her head.

>I'll be skipping ahead a bit now. Anything you guys want done before you leave?

>I'm also stepping out for a moment. I'll resume writing when I return.

>>2805250
>>Nope.

>>2805250
Couldn't our spider bodyguard check what's going over there?

>>2805250
>General Maintenance and prep stuff on the Rook. Get sleep and/or stuff that'll ward off sleepiness for the rid and/or fight. Maybe consult Emi again for the specific laws & shit we have to invoke to challenge him.
>Think of a zingy one-liner.

>writing

"But maybe... Kanzka?" You call out.

A small trap door opens by the entrance to the tent, just big enough for Kanzka to poke her head out. "Yes master?" She asks.

"What the fuck? How long have you been there?" Pip asks. "How did you even get there?"

"I have been burrowing all the way from Lutain, and I have always been here" Kanzka says. "What is it you need?"

"Would you be able to find out what my other friends are talking about and report it back to me if it's something serious?" You ask.

"As you wish" Kanzka says, sliding back under the trap door.

"I forgot all about her" Pip says.

"For a while there I did too..." You say. "Now, I need to get some sleep if I'm gonna go all night. Mind watching Vivian and waking me in an hour or two?"

"I can manage that" Pip says as she takes the bundle of kitty from you. "Sweet dreams"

>1/2

Pip wakes you by getting Vivi to jump on your face, as she tries and fails to hold back her laughter. Vivi just seems disappointed that the thing she was chasing disappeared.

Once Pip's done laughing you leave her with Vivi a while longer so you can do some prep. You start by running basic maintenance on the Rook, making sure all your equipment is in order, going over your route again...

"Getting ready to go?"

You turn to see Emi approaching from behind you.

"Not leaving just yet, but I'd like to be set when the time comes" You reply.

Emi lets out a silent giggle. "It's been what... a month since I last saw you?" She asks. "You've matured quite a bit"

"It's been an eventful month" You say.

"Tell me about it..." She says.

"So is there anything else I need to know about this challenge thing?" You ask. "Any specific words I have to say, that sort of thing?"

"You will have to tell them that you're the owner of Kou's blade" She says. "By tradition, Kameh will be carrying it with him and he'll have to turn it over to you"

"So it's that sword that I can't drop, not my own?" You ask.

Emi nods.

"I guess that means I'm goin' no hands on my mageblades..." You say.

Emi looks confused, so you float your mageblade off its peg...

"No hands" You say.

She blinks several times. "How are you doing that?" She asks.

>I'll tell you if you tell me what's wrong

>Magic, obviously

>Actually explain it

>Other

>>2805353
>>I'll tell you if you tell me what's wrong

>>2805353
>>I'll tell you if you tell me what's wrong

>>2805037
I actually kind of agree with this. Given Pip's self-admitted issues, we should just ask her straigt out if she would mind us pointing some guys who seem trustworthy and in her interests her way, so she can feel them out. Yuu's in a similar position on the fame and status front, and so far has been a pretty good judge of character?

>writing

"Tell you what," you say, twirling your blade in the air and bringing it back to your hand, "you tell me what's wrong, and I'll tell you how I do this"

Emi frowns. "That's..."

"Look. Emi. I know something is bothering you. I'm 99% sure it has to do with me, or what I'm going to do" You say. "If there's something you need to tell me, tell me"

"How did you figure all that out?" She asks.

"I'm smart, and you have a terrible poker face" You say.

She sighs. "Look... It's really nothing you need to worry about, okay?" She asks.

You consider pressuring her, but judging by the look on her face, that won't end well. "Alright fine" You say. "But I'm not telling you how I control my mageblade without touching it"

"That's fair" She says. "I was about to go get a late supper... did you want to come?"

"I ate already, and I've still got a ton of stuff to do" You say. "If I have time I'll swing by and find you, okay?"

"Okay" She says.

You take a breath as Emi slithers off. There isn't a whole lot of daylight left, so it won't be long before you have to go. You decide to spend the rest of your time by-

>Going to see Altea

>Writing up some letters

>Going to see Derrick

>Other

>>2805389
>>Going to see Altea
I feel like any letters we want to write are probably best done once we accomplish our mission.

>>2805389
>>Writing up some letters

>>2805389
>>Writing up some letters

>>2805389
>>Going to see Derrick

>writing

You've got a few people you need to or want to write. Most of them are back in Lutain, since you need to let them know about Ilica and Vivi, as well as the child you found in the castle. You'd also like to send something to Namaki and possibly put something together for Stella, if Quria has a way to get it to her.

So you find an unused table back by the supply carts, along with a pen and some papers, and get to work.

The letters to Lutain come first. You start with a short one to Belladonna letting her know what she needs to know, then you write another more personal one to Cheska...

While you're at it, you write a simple one for each of the little devils, and another for Hella... and you briefly consider writing one for Lianna, but a written letter won't do her much good so you decide against it.

After that you spend some time writing a final letter to Namaki, and... you're pretty sure that covers everyone you aren't going to see in the near future.

You take the letters to the mail spider and she files them away. Now that the army as recieved a letter from Namaki, they actually know how to get one back to her.

With that out of the way, you head to Altea's tent to go talk to her before you leave...

>1/2

When you reach the tent, the sun is almost gone...

"All set?" She asks.

"For the most part, yeah" You say, as you sit down across from her. "Are you gonna miss me?"

Altea smiles. "Of course" She says. "But you are needed elsewhere, so I'll survive"

You chuckle at that.

"Are you ready?" She asks.

"I am" You reply.

"Good. Now, you might not have my blood, but you are my son. You can't breath fire, but you have the dragon's fury" She says. "It's been quite some time since the south has been bold enough to attack us like this, even if they're only doing it because our attention is elsewhere"

"Want me to throw in some extra ass kickin'?" You ask.

Altea stands up and fixes you with a fiersome gaze. "I want you to show them what happens to a fish when it pulls on the tail of a dragon" She says.

"So... slice 'em up and fry 'em 'till they're nice and crispy?" You ask. "I'm not much of a chef, but I think I can manage that. Did you talk to Derrick?"

She nods. "We're going with his plan" She says. "Ship captains are coordinating as we speak. The first salvo will be fired at dawn"

"Sounds like quite the show. Shame I'll miss it" You say.

"Son, if you can protect the capital I'll have the ships fire a salute when you return" She says.

"I like the sound of that..." You say.

>Anything else you want to do before you leave?

>>2805469
>No.

>>2805469
>Check on Emi one last time

>>2805469
>no
BTW how do those mana sucker siege engines work again? Could they be used in a surprise ground to air attack on an airship? Or would the airships be too maneuverable

>>2805469
>>No

>>2805478
Oh shit forgot. Changing to this.

>writing

Altea stands up, and you follow suit.

"Ride fast and fight well, Yuu" She says.

"Have i ever done anything less?" You ask.

Altea smiles and steps around the table to hug you. "Now, go on. I've got to go up and see my captains..." she says as she lets you go.

You head out of the tent and get Coral to show you where Emi is. You catch her as she's leaving the mess tent.

"Are you heading out now?" She asks.

You nod. "I'll be back in no time" You say.

She gives you a troubled smile, and brushes an errant lock of hair away from her eyes. You hold your arms open for a hug, which she tentatively accepts. It's only a brief hug though, as she pulls away without wrapping you in her tail like she usually does.

"I'm going to get some sleep" She says. "Good... good luck out there"

Emi slithers off, just as Ilica comes out of the mess tent as well.

"Safe travels, man" Ilica says.

"Thanks" You say. "Take care of her for me, will you? I don't know what the problem is, and I don't really appreciate being left in the dark, but she looks like she could use a friend right now"

Ilica salutes you, gives you a hug, then heads off after Emi.

As you head to the Rook you write up a quick goodbye to Pip, complete with a cheese joke, and send it to her with Coral.

Coral's back by the time you reach the Rook, so you mount up and prepare to move...

>Roll 1d100 with focus