[a / b / c / d / e / f / g / gif / h / hr / k / m / o / p / r / s / t / u / v / vg / w / wg] [i / ic] [r9k] [cm / hm / y] [3 / adv / an / cgl / ck / co / diy / fa / fit / hc / int / jp / lit / mlp / mu / n / po / pol / sci / soc / sp / tg / toy / trv / tv / vp / x] [rs] [status / ? / @] [Settings] [Home]
Board:  
Settings   Home
4chan
/qst/ - Quests


>>3462264

You are Flaithrí Ó Ruairc, 21 year old college student and mythology/history otaku of Irish descent. Being a history major and longtime fan of the mythical, subconsciously you longed for the chance to be a chivalrous knight and legendary hero like in the stories. As fate would have it, you found yourself getting that chance to do so upon discovering a strange book in the library.

You and three other heroes from alternate worlds have ended up precisely in another world.You are in the nation know as Melrmomac, one of the seven most powerful and influential kingdoms on the continent. Strange of all, you were carrying a magical device of legend called the Legendary Spear. Bonded to you right down to your soul, you were labeled as one of the four Cardinal Heroes. Legendary warriors chosen by the heavens themselves to combat the calamity known as the Waves and save the world from the path of destruction and ruin.

Sound simple right? Well as you prepare to embark on your journey. You learn that this Kingdom isn't as peaceful and noble as you once thought. Races like Demi-humans were being enslaved and viciously discriminated, a cult with immense power influencing the people, many nobles having their own shady agendas, including the First Princess, but most of all, there was the continuous mistreatment and slander of the one known as Nickolas Irving aka the Shield Hero. There was something sinister going on as you come to face the challenges and tribulations both during the waves and outside them.

Traveling with your party, starting with Rifana the Weasel Demi-Human Kunoichi, Elena the Magic Swordsman Noble, Aden the Nameless Ranked Solider, Andros the Former Noble Rogue, Melody the Dancing Healer, Vivian the Self-Proclaimed Master Magician, and Blake the Purebreed Baby Dragon.

Together with your party you set out to claim the romance of adventure and make a legend quite like no other...as The Mad (Irish) Spear Hero.

Previous Thread - >>3462264

Spear Hero Stuff - https://pastebin.com/5VFAKycF
>>
>>3477988

PREVIOUSLY

- After being transported into the world you first met the King Aultcray Melromarc XXXII.
- Along with Riku Kuromiya [Sword Hero], Lucien Ainsworth [Bow Hero] and Nickolas Irving [Shield Hero] , you were tasked to stop the Waves of Calamity and save the world to be granted any wish you want, including getting back home.
-You first met Elena Haven and Aden during the Welcoming Ceremony where you recruited them and learned more about the world.
- Following Elena's suggestion, you went to Castle Town's dungeon and recruited Andros, Melody and Rifana
- You stood audience with the King as you party up with Vivian Ravencroft and formally Myne Sophia who instead chose to Join the Shield Hero's Party.
- Slowly you begin to learn about the Kingdom's hatred of Demi-humans and their unjust treatment alongside the corruption of the Nobles as you gradually took care of your weaken party.
- You bare witness to the trial of Nickolas as he was falsely accused of sexually assaulting Myne Sophia. Angry about this,you had a 1 on 1 duel with Nickolas in the rain. The battle was unknown but you slowly bonded with the Shield Hero, much to his confusion and frustration.
- For the next Several Weeks until the start of the first wave you spent your time absorbing as much information, skill and experience you can gain as you build yourself up from the ground up as a level 1 adventurer.
-Gradually you learned more about your party through these weeks. Such as Elena being the daughter of a famous war hero general and her mother being from a long line of wealthy merchants. Rifana coming from a demi-human run country that was previously destroyed as a cover up after the first wave and previously was enslaved. Andros being the former Duke of said country as his real name is Andrea Reichnott, second son to the Reichnott family. Vivian being the youngest graduate of Faubley's most preposterous academy and Aden being a recent graduate of military training.
-During your travels, you went to the slave trader and much to Elena's disdain you bought an monster egg which hatched into the purebreed Dragon Blake

con
>>
>>3478030

-You briefly ran into Riku and Lucien, slowly getting an understanding of each other's progression while making notes of the world. Although it seems like a game, you slowly begin to wonder if that was really the case?
- Elena was set off to acquire a place of training for you to safely level in time for the wave. During this time, you set off to train as both you and Rifana fought a twin headed hound, one of the offspring of Cerberus, the first wave's boss monster that was unable to be dealt with.
- During training, Rifana grew to that of a young teen, explaining to you one of the core reason for Demi-Human's discrimination due to their ability to slowly reach their optimized ages without loss of lifeforce as they level up.
- In order to gain experience and understand what it means to be a real hero, you set off the lands to search for a master Spearsman.
- Starting in the southwest, you eventually ended up in large village.
- During your stay in the village, you learn of the village's plight as they were attacked by a plant monster after previously suffering from famine.
- You, Melody and Aden set off to find the source only to fight against one of the plant golems.
- Melody ultimately broke down, revealing to you that she was once Myne's best friend and shadow. Revealing her true identity as Malty S. Melrmomac. Melody unfortunately suffers both from memory loss and a seal on her tongue in the symbol of the church of the three heroes.
- After defeating the plant golem, you ran across Myne as she requested your help in saving the village and obtaining a magical seed. But not before causing further psychological pain to Melody
-Begrudgingly you and your party trek through the Aztec/Mayan like ruins, ultimately coming through a mystical temple where the next several days you explore through its many halls.
- From the writing on the walls, you slowly learned that an alchemist from long ago made the seed to help the land grow and recover after the events of an unforeseen calamity. But the rest of the story was seemingly...erased. What you did gained was the knowledge of the plant revolved around three theoretical abilities which as followed. The ability of self-recovery, self-replication and self-evolution.
-Ultimately you ran into the source of the the mutated plants as it was the original plant golem. Through it was a hard fought battle, you managed to defeat the golem and put an end to the infestation. However, due to recklessness you nearly died from bloodloss, unknowing what has happened to the miracle seed.
-You found yourself back at the inn just two days before the first wave...staring at an older Rifana

And now our Story Continues
>>
>>3477988

"Isn't it funny....This world seems so simple. Although it has countless layers, many trivial factions and regulations...the core value of the world remains the most simple. Those with power rule...and those without power are forced to be subjugated. Even in our world...that truth remains to be the same as history dictates. Although they have magic....although this world is a fantasy or a game....it all ends up the same. It's both funny...and quite sad."

Those were some powerful words coming from Riku. In the few weeks you know of him, he was pretty much the lone wolf. Preferring to work along and keep people at a distance. He usually lets his actions speak louder than his words, so usually he was short and straight to the point. So this long speech of his was rather surprising to you.

You look to Rifana, who has a rather sad look on her face but continues to stay close to her. You can gather that Riku's words resonated with her deeply. After all she was the living proof of Riku's current outlook on life. The nobles held all the power yet most of them choose to abuse it to suit their own views. Something that you gather from Riku disgusts him immensely.

"...I believe that in order to find true strength...the strong should keep fighting with the strong. Polishing their skills to prove themselves as the real deal. Eliminating all these fakes...and reach summit at the top. ..Did you know there's a kingdom like that here? Faubley operates on a logic much like survival of the fittest, where only strength matters. ...Perhaps...If I had say of where I was to be summoned...I'd think I would've liked to be placed in their kingdom over this..."

What do you do?

>Argue against his ideology
>Agree with Riku
>Change the Subject
>Something Else
>>
>>3478124
Argue that there is always politics, even in the land of the strong.
>>
>>3478124
>Argue against his ideology
"The only difference between a society of the strongest and society as we know it is the kind of power that puts you on top. Financial power, social power, and political power are traded out for physical power, but their cores are the same."
>>
>>3478124
>Argue against his ideology
>>
>>3477988
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/3462264/
So you don't forget later.
>>
File: 1556751092669.jpg (93 KB, 1280x720)
93 KB
93 KB JPG
>>3477988
>a shield hero quest where you can't cum inside filo
What's the point?
>>
>>3478196
>>>3478124
>That's a load of bollocks. Society is never made by one person no matter how powerful. If you act like a dunderhead you're still a dunderhead no matter how strong you are. Civilization is a buildup of everyone in it.
>
>> What's this about not leaving Melomarc? I don't remember swearing fealty to the Royal family or anything like that. This will get in the way of my plans for international trade. What's Vivian(my witch/magician) supposed to do if she wants to visit her home if her ma gets sick or something? If the wave is outside Melomarc, are we not allowed to stay where we were?

I double checked the previous thread and my old post might count as a spoiler, so deleting it.
>>
>>3478171
>>3478175
>>3478185

You listen to him speak, thinking to yourself for a bit before ultimately arguing against Riku's ideology. You speak of that even if a land of the strong was born, there was always politics. And the only real difference that would be traded for such a world is the kind of strength that puts them on the top.

"I won't deny the truth in that. For all it will amount to is things becoming far more simple and easier to manage. That said...it'll be far easier to weed out the fakes and the parasites to find those who are the real deal....regardless if they're just or corrupted. After all, history has shown that only the winners decide the fate of the world and write the record books.

You continue to listen to Riku's words. While some of it was true, especially since you know your history. You still can't help but argue against wanting a world where only the strong survive. There was too many different kind of strengths that are just as important as physical strength. Riku looks at you before taking another look against the sky.

From my brief talks with you, Lucien and even Nicolas...I came to understand our worlds are completely different. You already know that each of us come from an alternate reality. Lucien comes from a world where it almost ended as predicted by the Mayans but miraculously survived. Even before that, the American revolution never happened and France succeed in their revolution and took over Britian, thus forcing the royal family and co to America and form the continent Britannia. came from a world where the discrimination of science and technology from the middle ages never happened, and humanity continued to progress with science and made jumps that would be at least a hundred ears more advance than yours. Then there's Nickolas who was born in a world very similar to yours. Except that Japan was never nuked, pearl harbor never happened and ultimately the cold wars did spawn world war three. Japan was on the America side along with some of the other united powers against the soviet union. America won and the Soviet Union remained but there were heavy causalities. All of our worlds are so different....yet they share some similarities in the end. And I'll bet this world isn't different despite being like that of a game. Who knows what kind of secrets that are lost to the test of time that this world has? You used to be a history major...so you can understand where I am coming from. Doesn't it just frustrate you that this world is filled with idiots? Riku said, a slight tone of anger and frustration was coming from his normal distant and monotone voice.

con
>>
>>3478258

"The waves are coming...yet here we are squandering our full potential being apart of trivial stuff. So I decided to prove my merit by fighting monsters. All kinds of them, to better prepare myself for the waves. And to prove that my ideals are the real deal. It's starting to spread, and I'm getting requested to save people from countless mythical creatures and beasts. I just recently ended up fighting a dragon just to prove my strength after being requested and defeated him without issue. In time, the nobles started to slowly have come to respect my strength and have been supporting me off my efforts. "

This would be problematic if both you and Riku didn't already agree to modify your translation powers from your legendary weapons to be speaking in your world's native tongue. Thus, Rifana would be completely lost upon your transitions to talk about each of the worlds you lot have come from.

"I'm not like Lucien, I don't want to worm my way to the tops of the political struggle in hopes to have a high enough standing to even become the next King. Nor am I like Nickolas who is only fighting out of obligation to return back to his home. All I want to do is prove myself as the strongest hero. I'll let my subordinates handle the political stuff. After all...this world is practically like a game. So why should I bother with things I think are too trivial to deal with."

>How do you respond?
>>
>>3478279

Forgot to mention, it's hinted at that Riku was frustrated coming from a world where he didn't have the power to do anything against it. A hint about his personal past, and his obsession with strength as it has to do with something important. So he sees this as a chance to proof his beliefs are real and his conviction is true.
>>
>>3478279
Your funeral. Remember we are not the only 'Heros' around. Hell, there are King Arthurs or Hassans in the shadows that our weapons cannot protect against.

Just watch your back. You saw what happened to Nick.
>>
>>3478225
Filo is for Blake.

>>3478104
You're doing pretty decently. We've managed to avoid the stat vomit that plagues Isekai and interrupts narrative flow, so that's great.
I personally tried to mention weird mythology crap that somehow fits in with the setting so that we can have a eureka moment once we get the truth revealed.

>>3478258
>They're used to having power to make up for brains and don't exactly have modern conveniences. No need to watch out for being stabbed in the back if backstabbing can't even kill you. We're used to reading/learning more information than the average person in the middle ages would do in a year. Of course their plots would look stupid once you stopped to think about the details.

>What's this about being able to come home?
That's the first I've heard of that. They refuse to give so much information that I thought those bastards expected me to fight for them until I die.

>The world might be like a game, but people are still people.
>They forget that we're people and not their disposable little weapons to toy with. I cannot agree with doing the same to the innocent caught in between.
Autotranslate off:
>Be careful, Nick's apparently the local equivalent of Satan and one country doesn't usually get to bring out all four of us. I'm pretty sure they're brewing something dumb. Even if the plots are dumb, they're still from this world and understand how to live in it better than you.
>>
Before we leave can we talk about trading for some of those spare materials since we absorb them into our spear to power it up? It sounds like an opportunity for a mutually beneficial arrangement.
>>
>>3478279
"The world's rules may be game-like, but the people within are real as can be."
Translation off:
"Even if you think people are trivial, you'd do well to watch your back. No matter how powerful your sword gets, you'll never be able to slash through poison in your dinner."
"Though to the nobles, it's probably better to just take advantage of you instead. From their perspective, you're a gun that will gleefully point itself at their strongest enemies and fire."
"If you don't want to be a part of politics, that's fine, but don't let your indifference turn into callousness. Helping the 'fakers' in their oppression because you can't be bothered to care makes you just as culpable."
>>
>>3478318
>>3478321
>>3478345

You take Riku's words to heart but you only throw your two cents to it. He was still a seventeen year old male, so some of it was probably due to hormones. So as the older man of the two, you felt like it was your duty to give him some advice, perhaps from your own personal experiences. Of course you talk to him, you turn off the Auto-translate, speaking in words that you know that Riku would be able to understand.

"I'm not that foolish....whatever they try to do, I'll power through and survive. I already almost died in my world, so I'm already cautious about people and prefer to work alone. "

Riku seems to take some of your advice to heart. But when it came to believing people are real, something in him turn. For a brief moment you saw a look in him similar to what Nick had when he was betrayed only more filled with sorrow. Something in him didn't want to face those facts....Even if you were completely right,there was something in him that didn't want to face that aspect of reality.

"..Anyway Nick will survive. If he's the man you say he is, Then he should be strong enough to overcome whatever fate the world delivers him. After all..I know precisely how important tanks are. Although...I never heard of a tank that was incapable of dealing damage on his own...."

Before Riku heads off, you decide to instead share some spare materials for your weapons. Riku reluctantly shared his spare materials with you as you class your weapons together. The transfer brings out a bright light of blue and red between your weapons as it makes for a violet shade until ultimately vanishing. He still didn't tell you about the strengthening weapon he has, but you feel like you shouldn't press it until you have a better relationship with him or at least get all of the heroes on it.

The two of you manage to complete the transfer before walking off. Riku mentioned that he's going to the Dragon's Hourglass to see the time before the wave. He already one his personal preparation, but still wanted to be sure that he got the time right. You decide to accompanying him since that was actually a smart idea.

As you, Riku and Rifana make it inside the massive temple where the hourglass is handed, several of both of your party members are already there. More importantly, you see Lucian and his party making small talk with Nickolas and his party. There was intense anger in his face. Right beside him was a rather confused tanuki girl who...for some reason look as well built as Rifana. Speak of Rifana....she suddenly disappeared.

>Go find Rifana
>Talk to Lucien and Nick
>Talk to Nick alone
> Ask one of your party members what's wrong?
>Something else

write in your dialogue
>>
>>3478389
>Hey Rifana ,where you go? Did you grow so fast you turned into dust?
>>
>>3478389
I'm currently thinking his problem is something along the lines of being strong enough not to lose the people he has (or just people in general) or even need them at all and he doesn't want to confront the reality of them dying someday regardless of what he wants. So he's trying not to get attached or something like that, maybe, I dunno.
>>
>>3478404

You hit the bingo, but which one is the true question
>>
>>3478389
"What, you shy or somethin'? Come on out front and centre, Missy!"
>>
>>3478389
>Go find Rifana
I'm sure Lucien is just being a prick to Nick because he can. I'm more worried about what happened to our little girl.
>>
>>3478416

A condescending prick, let's not sell him short. Course Myne is there so....a hundred times the amount?
>>
>>3478415
>>3478416
>>3478404

You decide that finding Rifana was more important than whatever was happening in the Dragon's Mirror. So you quickly apologize to Riku before bolting out, leaving Nick alone again as he deals with this on his own. You start to scurry throughout the Castle Town looking for Rifana.

Eventually you find her sitting down on one of the barrels in an alleyway. She was kneeling, arms around her knees as a sorrowful look appears on her eyes. Something must of have happened to make her disappear like that. Or was it just the fact she didn't want to be in the temple. You aren't completely sure.


>Confront Rifana and ask her what's wrong
> Surprise her by grabbing her tail
> Give her some space
> Something else
>>
>>3478438
>Grab a barrel and sit across from her or next to her if it's too narrow
"What's on your mind Rifana? I've never seen you bolt like that before, got me worried for a bit there."
>>
>>3478438
>Sit down next to Rifana, put an arm around her, and ask what's wrong.
>>
>>3478438
>Ask her what's wrong.
(Probably assume that she's still got ptsd from the waves)
>>
>>3478452
Plus one to this
>>
>>3478445
>>3478452
>>3478458
>>3478461

Rather than make this awkward, you decide to merely pull another one of the barrels to sit next to Rifana. With your right arm slowly moving towards her head, you pull her into a light hug. Placing her head directly against your chest, she could feel the beating of your heart. It somehow manages to sooth her as she comes back to reality. You start asks her what's wrong, but also leave it up to her to not say if she wanted.

"I'd be lying and say if I wasn't scared of the waves....you never truly experienced how frightening the waves can really be. ....Yet that's not it..."

Rifana started to bite her lip rather tightly, so much in fact that blood was dripping from it as her body tenses deeply.

"...That Tanuki....I'm pretty sure I know she is...No...I'm certain....That's Raphtalia.. My Raph-chan....My best friend."

She grips her arms rather tightly. Her tail twitching immensely as her post traumatic stress disorder was coming back full swing. The memories that she experienced was flooding back to her bit by bit as she felt herself almost having a panic attack. Slowly she begins to hyperventilate, but manages to keep herself from passing out.


"We were slaves...tortured....beaten....made to suffer for so long...put to the brink in mind, body and spirit. ...Even ended up sick.....we were slowly losing our will to live......I'm not sure completely....but I know something bad happened....everything was fuzzy but I know one thing....something horrible happened to me. Something.....positively painful that Raph-chan had to deal with. I-I want to go to her....Tell her that it's alright. That...I'm here! But....I'm scared....I'm too scared to face her as I'm right now! "

>How do you respond?

>Tell her she doesn't have to force herself to go to her right this second?
>Have her man up and go to Raph-chan imminently?
>Continue comforting her
>Pick her up and take her home
>Something else
>>
>>3478490
"So you fell yourself too weak to face an old friend?"look to her for confirmation "Then you'll just have to build enough confidence within yourself to tell her 'Raph-chan! It's me, Rifa-chan! I'm glad you're safe and in good hands!' and then go up to her and give her a hugging of a lifetime, crying in joy on each others shoulders all the while."
>>
>>3478490
>Continue comforting her
>Tell her she doesn't have to force herself to go to her right this second
>>
>>3478500
This
>>
>>3478499
>>3478500
>>3478503

You comfort Rifana, stroking her hair and telling her that it was alright. You even manage to get a surprise look on her face after saying >>3478499 to her directly. She looks at you and tilts her head, confirming that she was indeed afraid of going to Raphtalia. She was so much stronger than her. Despite the entire experience, she never stopped smiling and holding on to hope. She was the one who raise the people's hope to rebuild and not let the fallen. Meanwhile, Rifana could only embrace the pain of her family in their last moments huddling together and using themselves as human shields to protect Rifana. Her safety from the waves came directly from hiding in corpses till the monsters moved on. Leaving her to sob silently as she was close to broken as one could be before pulling herself out from the corpses and walking in her family's blood.

A traumatic experience is an understatement to what kind of messed up things that Rifana saw. Perhaps that's partially why she was so terrified as it took Keel the one to find her and comfort her out of her broken state. Yet Raphtalia experienced a similar act of love by being saved through the sacrifices of her family. It was Keel who jumped into the waters to find Raphtalia hanging on to a rock half-conscious. Meanwhile Rifana couldn't move her legs. She was too shaken up to want to save her friend. Rifana saw her first...yet was unable to lift a muscle to help her. Yet Raphtalia did everything to hold them together, even when they were getting tortured.

You been to grasps just how much she felt inferior to Raphtalia. And how she hated being a coward who couldn't save her best friend. There was naturally something more to it then that, but with how you been handling your party so far, you decide to tackle it one step at a time.

What do you do ?

>Take her back home
>Get Rifana a gift
>Something else
>>
>>3478538

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dx3C3Kek5gY music
>>
>>3478538
>Just keep in mind that you can't hide forever. and yer gonna regret it you really do never see her again. I'm gonna go back to the Cathedral and see what planning is going on for the wave, then I'll see if I can make you some ice cream.

https://www.airspacemag.com/as-next/cool-side-tropical-warfare-180969515/
Could probably do it with ice magic too?
>>
>>3478570
Let's go with this guy's option.
It's too early for dinner anyhow.
>>
>>3478570
>>3478575
ICECREAM!
>>
>>3478570
>>3478575

You tell Rifana that she's strong in her own way. She doesn't have to be like Raphtalia, being just Rifana was fine. That said, you have mentioned that she should take things slow, one step at a time. As well as that she can't hide forever, sooner or later she needs to face it. And if she waits too long, chances are she'll regret passing up the chance.

Rifana slowly nods, thinkg back to >>3478499
as you tell her that you need to return to the Cathedral. You know Rifana was a strong girl that can take care of herself. That said, you do promise her that you're going to make ice cream for her. Her ears perk up at the conception that was ice cream. Something that she never heard of before..but her tail still wiggles at the chance to try it.

With that you give her one final hug before going back to the Cathedral. On your way back inside, you see that Elena with Blake and Vivian were there. You can probably assume Andros was keeping Melody safe and away from the Cathedral for obvious reasons. Aden probably went off to look for Rifana or was left handling the supplies, you couldn't tell which.

As you step inside, you turn your attentions to Riku and Lucien as a rather formal religious man starts to walk on to the alter. He was accompanied by what appears to be two priestess in the same clothing that Melody used to wear. Judging from his attire, you can only assume that this must be the Pope himself. The leader of the church of the three heroes. The top of the food chain of religion as far as you concern yourself with.

"Ah it's a pleasure that our heroes have made themselves apparent to these parks in our great time of need. Now that we're all here, we can start to talk about our battle plan for the upcoming wave."

>Discuss your suggestion
> Wait and Listen
>Ask about the Shield Hero ?
> Something else
>>
>>3478590
> Wait and Listen
>Discuss your suggestion
I forgot what our suggestion was.
>>
>>3478590

Replace Priestess with Priest. Also since the series doesn't name him, I'm think of going with Pope Gregory XVIII
>>
>>3478604

You write out what you want to suggest for tactics.
>>
>>3478607
Assemble two teams. One team will head in to kill the boss while the other will concentrate on civilians.

Us and Shield on Civs the other guys can enjoy the boss.
>>
>>3478590
Ask about the local militia that's supposed to be protecting the towns and the strategies we pointed out on our first day with the party.
Eg use the item box to carry fortifications.

Ask what the recommended level and stat spread for a wave is since for all we know the rabbit of Caenerbogg is the final boss.

Ask if they know the future locations of waves and if they do, can they give us a map for the party to study before the wave starts.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d3)

>>3478604
>>3478613
>>3478618
>>
>>3478613

You decide to wait and listen first before suggesting your tactics to tackle the wave. From what you can gather about the plan. It seems like they're going for a pincer formation with the three heroes. Contain the problem to the upper forest region where the beast will be cut off from escape and pelted with flurries of blows. The three heroes will be the Vanguard, each one acting from a single point in order to keep the creature at bay while backed up by the knights and mages.

As for the church and the royal knights, they will remain here to protect the kingdom as many of them have been sent out to the most populated of villages/cities in order to keep the damage to a minimum until the wave are completed. There will still be healers appointed on the vanguard's team for added insurance.

It sounds like a good plan, but you still start to ask some questions.

"...Your being overly cautious aren't you Flaithrí? We shouldn't be underestimating the kingdom. They already know the terrifying power of the waves. It'll be insulting to assume that they haven't started to make countermeasures based on their experience right? "

Lucien's statement seem to get on the church's favors while his men continue to praise his compassion and sharp wit. It doesn't help that he also has the First Princess on his side backing him up as well.

Luckily Riku on the other hand is on a more neutral side. His attention is focused entirely on taking out the beast, but he isn't going to get in the way between you and Lucien's clashing opinions on the matter.

"Now Now, Sir Flaithrí has the right to know. It is a blessing to have a hero who wants to be sure the people are protected and not to be ignorant...unlike a certain hero who refused to come to the meeting. "

Pope Gregory goes to explain to you about the local milita. How they're being backed up by the knights of the the order, although they would keep their numbers in check to make sure that the ones protecting the borders aren't invaded by the other kingdoms. Not that the pope is worried since the nations are currently conversing with the Queen herself about the waves and what needs to be done.

As for recommended level and stats, it seem that around level 30-40 for this wave would be the recommended level. So you did meet the requirements exactly. As for Future locations, he goes to tell you that they do have the means to figure out future waves but leave that entirely on the scholars. Still, he gives you a map.

As for actual tactics, you suggest that two teams should be the ideal objective. One to protect the civilians while the other two are able to directly fight the beast. You suggest working with the Shield Hero in order to protect the people.

con
>>
>>3478705

"A noble jester but that won't be necessary. The Captain of the royal knights and his top men will go to where the shield hero is located and work on protecting the people. I believe that will cover the same potency as yourself Sir Flaithrí. At worst, we can rely on the party system to teleport us towards the most dangerous areas. So even if the shield chooses to ignore his responsibility, we'll still be able to protect the party. I am truly thankful you want to look after the people. But the wave will end in a instant if the boss is defeated. This is the best way to ensure that while making sure there's little to no casualties as possible. "

The pope seems to have quite the iron grip on the matter. He has taken care of every means to poke holes against the pincer position...while morally playing to your heroic heart. As well as there was this strange feeling you was having in your heart. It was the same similar feeling you had with the boss golem, Nickolas, and the twin hound.

" Sir Flaithrí, all heroes are needed to combat the waves. Even someone like the shield hero won't be able to run away from this. Trust my people to make sure that the civilians are safe and help us with the plan."

Myne started to interject, tugging on your strings while being supported by Lucien and co. Riku on the other hand looks at this and closes his eyes.

"Rather than bickering, I'd say we follow the pincer plan as suggested. If something wrong happens, we could have damage the beast fast enough to send one of the heroes to clean up after the shield hero. Am I wrong?"

The crowd is momentarily shocked by this deceleration from Riku. But it seems to work in the groups favor as they come to agree to the terms.

"With that I believe we have our tactics settled. So in the name of the church and the holy mother, I pray that we will have a safe experience."

With that the respective people begin to leave as you still wrap your head around what has just happened.

> Confront Riku
> Confront Lucien & Myne
> Head Back Home
> Find Nick
>Talk to Pope Gregory
>Something else
>>
>>3478714
Wait. We already KNOW where it's going to be? Hell, we should be going straight there!
>Prepare a trip over to the village
>Pack whatever fortification or building tools we need

Gotta make some
>Pallisades
>Shelters
>Shooting platforms for Rifana to jump from
>>
>>3478705
>Conversing with the queen herself
That's interesting. We know the King had a coup to usurp the queen's power and (probably) assumed she was dead.

If the bow guy is from Code geass, then there's a chance he totally sees through Mynne and is using her for some elaborate keikaku to install himself as Emperor?

Interesting message about how even the shield hero can't run away as if that's not also an implicit reminder(threat?) to us that we work for them until we die.


>>3478714
>Ask Riku what we missed
>Ask the pope if he has any old journals from the previous heroes. The historian in us would like a look and they could be filled with useful wisdom.

>>3478718
Not enough time for that since we're all of 1 day away and if they are a competent militia the structures should already be getting built.
>>
>>3478721
We have an architecture spear. Even if we can't quickbuild, we absolutely should be reinforcing everything

>>3478714
Of course, that's if we can't check up on the whole seed situation
>>
>>3478721
If they were only Romans...

I agree with most but lets shy away from the Pope fellow. That Pope just did something to us I bet, since why would we want to fight the boss when our original idea was to defend people.

Or I'm paranoid. It just seems weird and I want to talk to Nick.
>>
>>3478714
> Find Nick
May as well fill him in on what's been decided so he doesn't get blindsided when it's time for the wave.

>>3478718
The wave is in two days or less, and we'll be teleported straight to the location when it starts. There's no way we have enough time to set up those kinds of fortifications, and shooting platforms will be useless since the plan is for us to attack rather than defend.

>>3478721
Don't forget that these people think we already know everything about the world. We should probably try to avoid tarnishing that image, especially in the face of the leader of the religion that presumably takes the legend as doctrine.

>>3478727
>why would we want to fight the boss when our original idea was to defend people
Because an entire room full of people just appealed to our heroic tendencies to convince us that we should.
>>
Seriously, don't forget the seed stuff

>>3478733
While waiting to get teleported is the most efficient course resource-wise, I will re-iterate my above statements on reinforcing structures and checking what the architecture spears can do because this is about saving lives.
>>
>>3478725
They didn't say how far away it is. If we do not have a teleport and it's further than a day away, we cannot make it there long enough for the wave to make a difference. It might even tire us out when we could have been resting so that we're all bright eyed and bushy tailed for the fight.

>>3478727
If you have the suspicion, then we can check our status screen while the effect is possibly still active. Or we start researching anything that can resist mind control? Nicklaus Is the odd man out in the feeling so I can't say it's something like the pop went into battle mod---did we enter combat mode without realizing it?

>Don't forget that these people think we already know everything about the world. We should probably try to avoid tarnishing that image, especially in the face of the leader of the religion that presumably takes the legend as doctrine.
Fair enough. We can go through other routes to try and get a hand on some diaries later. I think they partially pretend we know everything to make it easier to manipulate us via a lack of information.
>>
>>3478741
Then check if it IS a day away?
>>
>>3478740
If lives are the concern, wouldn't it be better to just evacuate the town rather than reinforce all the buildings and have civilians hiding in their homes for the wave?
>>
>>3478740
Actually you are right about the seed stuff. We need to make sure something bad did not happen while we were out for a week.
>>
>>3478740
The seed stuff is for when we get back to our party if it's not in out inventory because we used an emergency teleport out of the temple?
>>3478743
That is reasonable. I was just pointing out we might be jumping the gun and your plans are in the way of doing the whole "Eat, drink, be merry" thing with the party.
>>
>>3478745
Given that in the canon story the town isn't evacuated by the time the wave starts, I'm guessing that's not an option.

When the wave actually happens, monsters will be coming from multiple directions. Without an orderly path for people to evacuate through, you're better off getting everybody into a fortified building and just grinding all the monsters outside it for quick and easy loot/xp.
>>
>>3478745
Or even the actual logic used by everyone for the strategy. The shorter the wave is the less time anything has to kill people. I don't know why the local architecture doesn't have reinforced shelters for people to hide in as part of a STANDARD building code.
>>
>>3478751
Well sadly its never a good idea to eat a large dinner the day before the fight. It makes them weak and can give a sense of finality.

I say we get a large amount of soldiers and ready them for the fight. You can carry things with you, so a couple carriages to act as reinforcements is not a bad idea.
>>
>>3478741
Spoilers about Pope over there.
He 100% unironically believes himself to be God and any who oppose him to be evil. He's ready and willing to throw away the three heroes and also seemingly uses mind control on his followers.
>>
>>3478759
Huh, I thought I was paranoid.
>>
>>3478759

You are right, but there's another reason that I can't say...yet.
>>
>>3478756
Killing the boss doesn't kill the monsters that are already spawned. They kinda nuke their own town even with the kill boss fast strategy.

If we can protect the civilians in the shelter and just tear through the minions as they appear, the boss killers can afford to make safer plays against the boss and we grind more loot
>>
>>3478766
Nah the one about the Sword Hero was 100% a guess but this one actually isn't. I read the manga up until the Queen comes back though the next chapter hadn't been translated and so I got completely side tracked by other shit and never got back into it, probably never will. I tried reading the WN but I couldn't stand it too.
>>
>>3478755
Legendary weapons interfere with exp gain for each other unless that applies to only the heroes. In terms of exp efficiency it would actually be better to drop everyone from the party so that they can get mass level grinds during the wave, but I wanted to not bring that up until after at least the first wave or check to see if there are some spells/buffs that require a person to be a party member instead of casting from outside the party.
>>3478758
We have 2 days I thought? We have fun tonight and then tomorrow we can be all serious.
>>3478767
So in other words the explanation given to us at the strategy meeting was faulty. Not that we didn't already miss the chance to snidely point out that we found people who weren't protected by their militias locked up in the dungeon within the first hour.

I find it amusing that all of the heroes so far think the upper classes of Melomarc are pants on head retarded. We just gotta wait until prissy bow speaks his mind to make it 100% of the heroes.
>>
>>3478767
You make the best point. I'm on the fortify train, and if we get Shield on board I imagine we can make a fortress in the middle of the wave.
>>
>>3478783
I'd say first wave is the best time to try since the boss wasn't so tough for the 3 heroes to handle.

By the second wave, SOMEONE is bound to have a "press button instant fortress" button and it'll be easy to set things up then fight the boss.
>>
>>3478782

That time I was answering about the why Flurry felt the need to want to fight the boss over protecting the people for a moment.

Also read the LN, it's less stupid. The manga is hit or miss but the expressions are top tier. But yes I'm trying to make each of the heroes have a more concrete reasons to do the things they do without making Nickfumi seem like the ultimate good when he's morally grey/questionable as fuck but everyone keeps calling him the purist hero. He's the most effective, but that's it when you really think about it. He just happens to be right/get pushed into such scenarios.
>>
>>3478783

Less than two days but yes.
>>
Rolled 4 (1d4)

>>3478718
>>3478721
>>3478733
>>3478758
>>
>>3478807
1 and 4 are mostly the same anyway.
>>
>>3478788
I personally would rather just run around town like sonic the hedgehog and drop fortifications directly out of the item box like originally planned. It would be easier to use the time wasted travelling to make MORE fortifications and hiding spaces for our item box to dump out for the militia's supply corps to use.
>>3478796
The dude seriously worked that PR machine.

With Riku accepting that it's a real world we've lost the hilarious chance where everyone is shocked at something the heroes do (Genbu) only for us to say that this world is so weird it's not really surprising he doesn't think he's having some fever dream. It's always fun when a reincarnator doesn't think everything is actually real.
I guess Code Geass has a chance where he thinks he's been put under some sort of spell but a possible member of the keikaku royal family going to town on a bunch of unsuspecting incompetents has a far greater payoff.
>>
So are we going to help rebuild towns with our architect spear? That would definitely make villagers like us and we better our technique. Win-win.
>>
>>3478786
>>3478758
>>3478718

You decide to focus on fortifying the village. Part of you wanted to ask Riku about things you missed as well as thank him for trying to help in his own way. Another part wanted to speak up to the pope, hoping to get some notes or journals about the past heroes to fill that historian itch in you. Then there's the part of you that wanted to tell Nick exactly what was going on and get his input on the wave plan. Finally there's the part of you that want to talk to Myne about the quest she gave you. There's so many different things you wanted to do it makes your brain almost explode from overthinking. You decide to slap yourself with both hands to get your mind back on the problem at hand.

You don't have enough time to do all of those things, so instead you focus on what's most important...the people. So with that you tell Elena and Vivian to gather supplies and give her your measurements.

"Are you really making a trip this late in the game? I know it can't be helped since you were unconscious for two whole days but come on? The wave is happening after tomorrow. And- *sigh* forget it. Telling you all of this will only make you more reckless. So go.Just promise me that you won't die."

Elena hands you a teleportation crystal, marked with the destination that you have in mind. Vivian slowly moves her hand into a peace sign.

"I made the teleportation crystal thanks to the Kind Magic shop lady in case you wanted to go to the spot. You'll probably have a day at most to do whatever you have planned. So don't get into another fight while you're away. I won't forgive you if you give me another scare like last time."

Vivian was clearly upset with your last stunt. Who can blame her? You were lying on a pool of your own blood dying. Everyone in the party was probably upset with you over that. That being said, you decide to head off to the village. ..That is after you go packing up all the necessary fortification and building tools you can gather.

With the crystal in hand, you make a quick teleport towards the village where the battle was going to affect it. So what do you do first?

>Make Shelters and Pallisades
>Reinforce the structure
>Build Walls
>Make platforms for Rifana to take advantage of
> All of the above
>Something else
>>
>>3478826
All the Above and add a choke point to funnel Monsters.
>>
>>3478826
>> All of the above
We may get tired, but we won't know if the knights would even make it in time.
>>
>>3478826
I don't know how much longer I can stick around, so:
>Make a reinforced Shelter at the town plaza and have someone spread the information to evacuate there.
>Reinforce all the buildings close to the plaza
>Make reinforced pallisades with enough space for human-sized people to run through but not larger. Put these in some(NOT ALL) of the roads leading to the plaza
>Have Rifana note down the rooftops she can use

We had that telepathy thing right
>Message Nick about the plaza shelter
>>
>>3478826
Choke points. Underground shelters for people to hide in beneath. Perhaps a mass shelter and you make sure the people of the town know where the hiding spots are. Castle Moat walls (they have the tiny slits for arrows so it’s easier to shoot everything outside than it is to shoot whatever is inside) so that people can safely shoot monsters if they want to take up a defense or sneak a hit or two in for exp. Ask why they don’t already have shelters for when waves hit.
If anyone has any relevant knowledge of a historical battle we can reference that would be great since we have a map. See if you can teach a basic healing spell. If anyone picks it up they can save the lives of their fellow villagers.
Ask where the soldiers defending the town are setting up?(do the people even know a wave is coming?)
>>
>>3478829
>>3478836
>>3478837
>>3478843

You go full ham with your madman tactics upon pulling out all the stops with the plan to fortifying the village. Of course Rifana is there to keep you restrained cause if you have it, you probably be seconds before being teleported checking if the third or fourth iron wall was needed.

With the two of you working together, you manage to set out doing every thing you can positively think of to protect the town. From making a shelter to asking Rifana about the best spots and rooftops she can use for her swift movements. You set out to make everything that can be done a possibility. And push yourself even further to make the impossible possible. You wouldn't be satisfied as a hero if you didn't put your all in protecting the people.

This act certainly paints you in a heroic light to Rifana. But she's still worried about you over doing it and rightfully so. With the drill spear, you care a way to make some underground shelter in addition to the mass shelter you made near the plaza. The choke points all lined up accordingly and there were moat walls set. These and more made the defenses they have including their own shelter feel way inferior in comparison. You even go talk to the local milita about all the tools and assortments you made to help the people while teaching "Fast Heal" and other basic healing spells to as many people as you can who have magic.

By the time you were finished with all the preparations, you were positively tired. So much so that Rifana has to drag you back to the village's inn to rest for the remainder of the trip. Despite feeling your body aching all over, you did a real good job protecting the area.

You feel like you want to do more but you can't...at least not without breaking the promise to your party. Speaking of party, you go to look at the menu while currently resting on your bed.

It seem that the Seed Quest has been completed and you were payed with two to four hundred silvers for your hard work. You probably save the kingdom a lot on it's budget for giving food so it was probably for the best.

...But then you wonder...who has the seed or what it has been done with?

con
>>
>>3478865

By the time you are ready to fight, it was around just a few hours before the wave began. The rest of your party managed to teleport themselves to your location with supplies. Including a brand new outfit for you to wear rather than the gear that you have been previously wearing. It all seem to fit perfectly, though you would have to imagine that Elena did a thorough job thanks to the help of some of your other party members. It was best not to question how she got your measurements.

With the party by your side, you just look at the sky as you wait for the last minutes of the clock to drop

>Say motivational words
>Talk about the plan one more time
>Head to the battlefield
>Prepare Buffs
>Something else
>>
>>3478878
Make sure everyone knows what to expect when protecting the newly forged bunker of *BADASS IN OLD IRISH* followed by Inspiration and buffs.
>>
>>3478878
>Ping the other heroes
>Go through our spear list
>absorb a flag/battle standard and check if it has a wide area buff effect.
>>
>>3478878
Sorry about the ice cream, I'll go figure out how to make some afterwards.

>Carve a rune of protection on one of the shelter walls for fun with a spear. Never know, it just might work.
>Write down the expected tactics to be relayed to the shield hero. They can't expect him to work properly if they can't be bothered to say what he's even doing to him.
>Ask that we get told where these waves are head of time from now on. What were we supposed to do it if was in the middle of the ocean and nobody told us?
>Have a chuckle with andros that at least 3/4 of the heroes think the people in charge are complete idiots after meeting them.
>>
>>3478912
+1
Still want to give this place a name.
>>
>>3478912
>>3478920

You carve the rune of protection with a spear to kill some time, much for Rifana's misfortune and Elena's annoyance. But it seem to ooze some sort of magic from your spear so it might work. You don't have the time to test it however.

You decide to relay the information for the expected tactics to the shield hero and give it directly to one of the knights. Afterwards, you also ask them to tell the higher ups that you would like to be made aware of the waves ahead of time. You feel like you can trust them to get the job done, so you decide to spend the rest of the time with Andros.

He and Blake were looking at the sky, sitting on the grass as time was about to be up. You decide to spend your last moments between the wave having another bro moment with Andros and Blake. You ended up making Andros laugh with your statement about the people in charge.

"I guess they're not as hopeless as you made them out to be. Though I wouldn't put it past Lucien to come to the same conclusion. Guys like him like idiots...because they're easier to manipulate. It's like a dull blade. They're not the brightest but they can be effective if you know how to use them."

Blake seem to also cheer about Andros's statement. The three of you go to look at the sky.. It would be wonderful if the wave never came. Unfortunately, the sky started to turn red after you have peace of mind with your bros. Up in the sky you see several dimensional portals start to open up. These portals started dropping what you see through your scope spear monsters. Monsters that can only be considered exactly like that of your myths. Undead monsters, goblins, reptilian like beasts, etc. It was positively ridiculous how game like this really is as you find yourself being teleported into a forest. This was probably the spot where you were expected to fight the main beast.

Who do you take with you?

>Blake
>Andros
>Elena
>Rifana
>Melody
>Aden
>Vivian
>Everyone, screw the village
>Go Solo
>>
>>3479025
>Andros
>Elena
>Blake
We can heal and cast spells fine.
We also didn't build spots for Rifana for nothing.
They also might need the heals more.
>>
>>3479025
>Aden
>Melody
>Vivian
Tank, damage, healer. Tried and true.

>>3479041
They have all the militia and villagers we taught healing magic.
>>
>>3479050
I go this. If we are to face the boss we need firepower and heals. Just keep a line open in case things at the village go south, we will either do something really stupid (Lead the Boss TO the village) or abandon the Heroes.
>>
You know, if Nick does end up at the village we need someone to take a picture of his face. I mean, we built a two walled Fortress in a single day.
>>
>>3479025
Nobody went and mentioned what roles other people had in their party at the strategy meetings.
Most of the damage is to be expected from the boss.
Vivian, Melody, Andros and Elena for the boss. Andros has tons of cover from the trees

Rifana has stuff we built earlier for snooping around town.
A possibly fire breathing dragon around a forest sounds bad. Not as bad around wooden houses but I don't think those houses would last with the monsters anyway. Better the same result with dead monsters.

Tell Aden that they refused to tell us tell us the recommended level for dealing with waves as usual so we'll assume the other heroes have a higher level tank around rather than risk her life taking hits she might not have to. We also need somebody to keep an eye on Rifa.
>>
>>3479076
Oh and goodnight.
The setup we took with us was magical DPS if we needed magical damage, hybrid dps, if the outer (scales/skin?) were magic resistant, our heals/buffs and Andros does his sneaking around to attack anything going for the mages.

That fucking mind control completely screwed our chance to talk with the others about what people/setup we should properly bring. We have no idea if any member of our party is redundant.
>>
>>3479076
They gave the level though
>>
>>3479025
>Aden
>Elena
>Blake

Have Melody apply buffs, then gtfo before shes noticed by Malty. I also want to keep Aden away from knight politics
>>
>>3479025
>>3479103
And Vivian, whoops
>>
Rolled 4 (1d4)

>>3479041
>>3479050
>>3479092
>>3479103
>>
>>3479117
Dont forget vivian

this luck is starting to freak me out
>>
>>3479103
>>3479107
>>3479050

You decided to go with Aden, Elena, Vivian and Blake. For added insurance, you had Melody buff your party with the strongest buffs and made them last as long as possible. The rest of them park themselves in the village to make sure the people are safe. You trust your comrades a lot more than leaving it to the hands of the knights.

TAs you to trek through the forest, the rain of monsters continue to pour down. As expected your party had to deal with attacks from zombies and other mobblings. But with the buffs you have, you easily burst through the crowd with just yours skills. This was good since you most likely needed to conserve both mana and skill points for the waves boss. More impressive was Blake since they were just bulldozing through the enemies without issue. Although the dragon was small, it was highly fast and just bulldozing through with superior tactic and dragon strength. The Dragon was noticeably lower compared to you party but it was leveling up much faster. Blake was going to be a monster among monsters in the future.

The pincer tactic seems to be doing exactly it's job since there was two other points being wiped out from the map. You can only assume that the other two are Riku and Lucien. As for the shield hero...it looks like he's heading...to Lute village. A much smaller place than the main village that you fixed up where the rest of you heroes were staying it.

You can only trust that Nick had a good reason to go there and stick to the plan. Although part of you did want to go there and help. Either way, you tightly grab your spear and press forward through the wave. Eventually you make your way to a clear field where the monster stood it's grown, staring at you. You were now staring at what appears to be rather large Chimera. Made up entirely of 4 different heads, The a four headed monster with the body and head of a lion, the head of a goat, the head of a dragon, and having a snake for a tail.

How do you proceed?
>>
>>3479158
Im guessing riku is going straight for the tail or the dragon, and he can take em.

Im thinking either
>Steam/Lightning to keep it down
>Drill Forest to pin it in place
>Focus on the lion head with one of the plant golem spears
>Stay at a distance and Airstrike all the heads with Bane
>>
>>3479158
Flame Spear to set the mane on fire,
use chains to hold it down and see if we can jump and Dragoon Drop on it's back.
>>
Sidenote, if you guys aren't confident about what to vote for in combat, I recommend you try reading Maverick Hunter Quest on the archives to get a feel for it.
>>
Just for meta sake, the spinoff story Revival of Spear Hero, states that the spear acts like a save/reload device that allows you to restart at the previous check point once you die. Basically a Re:Zero/All you need is kill scenario
>>
>>3479337
Is that why he fails at life, much like Suburu?
>>
>>3479339
Because he's just a socially awkward wreck in life. It's implied that this was already 'take 3' at the start of the spinoff, and the Motoyasu in the original series is 'take 2'
>>
>>3479094
My mistake. Rifana still needs some support.
>>3479337
I only read the first few chapters back in the day, but I think that was due to one of the spears he unlocked, so it possibly applies to any hero. He thought he could do it by the time Genbu came about, so it isn't going to take long to unlock if it isn't already from that exchange with the sword hero.
>>
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>3479168
>>3479198
>>
Rolled 1 (1d4)

>>3479168
>>
>>3479158
A bit late on this, but the greek Chimera breathes fire so the party should expect breath attacks at the least.
>>
>>3479168

You decide switch to the Steam Spear first in order to disrupt its line of senses. So you ask Aden to keep it at bay while Elena and Vivian back her up. Both started to place their hands over their magical weapons, chanting in unison as a magical spell circle forms around them. Meanwhile Aden stood in a defensive stance with her shield in hand, backing you up while you and her tackle against the Chimera.

Till the spell was complete then you use Steam Spear's skill "Temperature Control" before doing anything else. Choosing to switch momentarily between hot and cold steam in order to influence the humidity of the surrounding area. You do this in between shooting powerful blasts of hot and cold steam directly at the Chimera. The Chimera naturally moves around, using one of it's four heads, this case the goat to achieve remarkable speed to avoid getting a direct hit with your steam shots. It didn't matter, you were focused more on creating the necessary means for your plan while the girls prepare.

"Choral Magic「First Song」"

As both shouts in unison, Aden would feel remarkable magical power flowing directly into her. Her body's natural defenses were being reinforced, becoming stronger, harder, denser like she was becoming the living embodiment of defense. Of course the spell could have been applied to you as well. However, you commanded that the full boom go to Aden since casting First Song - Full Bloom, would take much longer and Aden was going to be the one doing more of the direct combat with the beast as the tank.

Speaking of tanks, she begins to jump forward towards the beast, meeting with it head as it was using the goat's speed for a ramming attack. Both she and the chimera clashed rather hard against one another, creating a powerful shockwave from the impact.

You are positively impressed that your party can work together in such a manner. Well, you always knew that was the deal, but this was just positively stunning that Aden is blocking the chimera's ram attacks. But you didn't have time to admire your foot solider, rather you continue to shoot more and more of your steam spear via the Spear Thrust skill. Only once the field was essentially covered with the thickly dense mist did you start to switch spears.

You quickly change to your Lightning Spear via change spear. The weapon speed has gotten much faster than the fight with the original Plant Golem. This was positively perfect as you start to summon a powerful bolt of lightning. Enhanced by the clouds forming from your Steam Spear, the large bolt of lightning strikes down hard against the chimera as Aden backed away in time to avoid getting shocked by the beast.

con
>>
>>3479390

The girls were already getting started on the second verse of the Choral Magic Attribute Song Series. There was no need at the moment to pummel it with firepower, and until the others arrive, it was for the best that your defending character gets the most optimized she can positively get until reinforcements arrive. That being said, the beast emerged from the lightning spear as it barely felt it. It wasn't stunned, but it clearly changed heads while it was taken the brunt of the attack. You can only guess that it switched to the dragon head for superior defense. At the very least, your tactic was keeping it at bay.

This chimera after all was on a whole another level compared to the original plant golem you face. Then again, he wouldn't be a wave boss otherwise. This was starting to get exciting for you. Speaking of excitement, the chimera prepares for it's next attack.

How do you proceed?

>Offense
>Defense
>Support/Healing
>Wait it out
>Something else

write in your suggestive tactic alongside which option you choose
>>
>>3479392
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzOSuoEAKVk
song btw
>>
>>3479392
If it swaps to lion or snake, Counter it and otherwise watch for its moveset.

If it sticks to dragon, target the Lion head with plant-based spears. Keep circling around it until it breaths fire, and just keep making it breath fire until the dragon head gets tired or the other heroes arrive.
>>
Also did some updates to the pastebin, going to try and gradually fill out each of the remaining spears. But if you have a question/or want to use a specific spear that is unfilled [not one that has ????] then feel free to do so.
>>
>>3479446
Jackpot
architect
Flag
Jewel
Rock
Sticky vs Maple Syrup whats the diff
Seed Spear
Core spear
Plant Golem vs Nature whats the diff

wait, lightning spear is a weapon and not an active ability?
>>
>>3479460

Jackpot is a spear that increases one's luck and grants them a "Second Chance"

Architect Spear is self-explanatory. It's the amalgamation of the building and crafting material spears you gather to reconstruct, reconfiguration, and recreate constructs relating to Architect.

Flag Spear is a boosting spear that also raises moral and shield from fear based effects.

Jewel Spear is the amalgamation of the Crystal Spear Series based on the different jewels and valued rocks you gather. You currently up to to the quartz for strongest jewels you can unlock.

Rock is an earth based spear that well lets you control the earth and manipulate the minerals such as rocks.

Sticky is more adhesive like sticky glue or cement while maple Syrup while comical is more slippery and attracts creatures to them.

Seed Spear is the reverted form of the Bio Seed...but it is currently locked as you only gotten it through a different mean via amalgamation from all the plant creatures you destroyed.

Nature Spear controls the plants and other flora based concepts. I'm thinking of changing Plant Golem to the Golem Spear and with plant being the only thing you currently unlocked to make miniature golems to fight alongside you.

And Core Spear as mention in the last thread is a parasitic spear that allows one the power of "possession" aka Telekinetic control of what it strikes/marks momentarily.
>>
>>3479460

Also Lightning Spear changing to being apart of the Elemental Spear series is something that I believe will make more sense and be more consistent with how spear abilities and spear skills work. Lightning Spear is also more powerful than I been giving credit for base.
>>
>>3479481
fair

>>3479477
so if I wanted to, say, raise a column from underneath the boss to lift it in the air where its legs can't grip anything, is rock better or architect?

Quartz spear, okay, but what do they do? Raw power, or something like blinding light or growing crystals on things?
>>
>>3479494

Rock would be better since it's faster and makes it easier to bend the ground, but architect would let you be more creative and constructive with the column.

Stronger Raw Power, higher durability, can reflect light and grow crystal among other things. The higher the jewel the stronger the output but cost more MP to use.
>>
>>3479395

The Chimera was seemingly still in dragon mode as it begins to charge up something. Considering the experience from last time with the plant Golem, you know for a fact that it was preparing for an attack. Something in you pulse as just rethinking what happens makes you upset. And yet...you feel like you were never close to such liberation until that moment. Being pushed to your limits, fighting a powerful adversary, doing whatever you can to survive and conquer. That heat of the battle is where you prove that your worth as a hero. Still, it wasn't enough to keep you from the task at hand. You went and go to summon the Garden Spear next.

With the garden spear you summon a series of thorn whips from the ground, quickly trying to ensnare and wrap around the enemy, more specifically the lion head. You keep moving, trying to look a weakspot as the beasts keeps breaking out of the vines. You can probably gather if you remain stationary you can most likely reinforce the vines to be much stronger with the Garden Spear's Skill "Growth". However, that would probably put you at risk, you decide to instead use the vines to distract him while the girls continue with their spell.

"Choral Magic「Second Song」"

Once again Aden would feel her body start to grow, this time her muscles start to ripen and her body is further reinforced. You assume that Aden was getting quite the strength boost. Not that you had the time to really be looking at your party as you continue to distract the Chimera. Blake was on the defense for Elena and Vivian, so you didn't have to worry about it and Aden was still there.

As the Dragon portion of the head continue to gather mana, the Chimera remain ever diligent in trying to catch you. The defense it has was slowing down it's speed, but at the same time it made it rather hard for you to really land a hit on him. The Steam Field was becoming more a hindrance on both side as the battle continues.

As you try and back away, continuing with the tactic of making the beast tire out with your game of cat and mouse...The Serpent tail actually starts to spit out fire at you. This was new as you begin to avoid the shots rather easily. It was a waste of effort on the Snake tail which only fit to reinforce your plan. After dodging another series of fireballs, you begin to prepare your counter attack as you descend downwards. Landing directly on to another section of the ground.....right in line where the Dragon was taking aim.

Before you could move, the Dragon proceed to release a rather concentrated blast of fire...water...wind and earth directly at you. This was more than what you were expecting as all four heads correlate the attack aimed directly ate you. As you brace yourself with making a defense out of the vine...you would see something shooting at you at lighting fast speeds.

"Choral Magic「Third Song」"

con
>>
>>3479848

Those were the words that you could faintly here before seeing the dragon finish gathering for this multi-layered beam attack. Yet you didn't see the true weight of those words until you see the person they were intended for in front of you. The lightning fast thing you saw....was indeed Aden as she currently blocks the multi-elemental beam.

Aden puts her all into protecting you from the blast as well as the rest of the party. Her legs sink deeply into the ground, practically buckling against the powerful force as the Chimera took full aim into shooting her. As you see this, you start to see a glowing red eye in Aden's helmet. You never really saw her face, only heard her voice and assumed to believe it to be a girl. However the lighting was giving you the chance to really see her face as the helmet was burnt off.

It was a woman as you expected...with beautiful shoulder length dark brown haired. Yet, there was something...primal about her. The way her green eyes look, completely slit like an enraged beast. Her teeth sharpened and her face looking more serious and vicious. She let out a ferocious roar, making you think you heard the sound before.

The chimera's breath attack eventually came to an end as Aden withstood it completely. Shield dropping to the ground as she pants immensely through the process. It was hard to gauge if she was still conscious or some primal instinct was taking over. But the Chimera right now was preparing to change heads.

>What do you do now ?

>Attack
>Heal Aden
>Defend
>Something else

write in exactly how you would do one of the options.
>>
>>3479888
>Attack
Wow, they're taking a long time.

>Cross Spear - Sticky in the dragon's mouth, Bane in the Lion's mouth.
>Once inside, Switch Sticky to Jewel, and grow seed crystals inside the Dragon's mouth
>Once inside, Switch Bane to Seed, further draining lifeforce from the Lion head
>>
File: Spoiler Image (4.12 MB, 900x1200)
4.12 MB
4.12 MB PNG
>>3479888

Doing a soft description with the reveal since I thought it about it and re-remember that Going with wolf in sheep's clothing would work better in the story over mama bear
>>
>>3480030
I did not know Aden was stacked.
>>3479888
>>3479910
I'll go with this guy's lead.
>>
>>3479910

You decide to not waste this moment as you begin to use Cross Spear. In addition to Cross Spear, you switch your current spear into Bane Spear. With the second spear Sticky Spear in hand, you quickly spew a very sticky and goopy adhesive into the Dragons mouth while simultaneously slamming Bane's Bear into the Lion's mouth.

The Dragon's mouth was gooped up, thus was unable to gather the necessary mana to launch a much weaker breath attack. Meanwhile the Lion was getting hit with Ravage, chipping away at its lifeforce as the main body. Yet the Goat and Snake were completely fine. In fact...it was the snake you had to worry about. For the Chimera, prior to receiving your double spear attack...switched to that of the Serpent head.

In exchange for taking the blow, the serpent's power allowed for a powerful countermeasure. Before you could switch to Jewel, the snake head stretches forward in order to punish you for attacking it. That is if Aden wasn't in the way of things. Had it not been for her pushing you to the side, it would be you would be taken the venom of the serpent. Instead it was Aden who was still looking rather ferocious...and aggressive.

"Grrah"

Aden gave a fierce grunt against the poison, taking it in strive as she did not flinch. Instead, she bites down hard against the Chimera. Sinking her fangs against her beast, Aden grips rather tightly on the beast. It struggles to break out of her lock, giving you time to safely changed from Sticky to Jewel. Although....it seems that Aden has other plans as she grips the creature tightly. Her muscles bulge further, tightening as her body taps into more of her ferocity. She lets out another howl before lifting the chimera up and slamming it across the battlefield, blowing away the remainder of the Steam Field.

Afterwards, Aden started to almost drop to one knee from the poison. Yet she continues to keep the Chimera from moving again, despite the fact it changed to Lion once again to bite her against her own hide. Leaving you to focus more on completing the combo with further sealing the dragon's mouth with seed crystals from Jewel Spear and switching Bane to Seed to inject the Chimera with the same life-draining tactic that the original plant golem had did during it's battle.

con
>>
>>3480321

The Chimera powers through this as the dragon swing it's head against Aden's side to make her yelled. Meanwhile the Serpent head goes to inject another dosage of poison against her side. Yet through it all she would refuse to let go. Keeping the beast from getting to you. This ultimately cause the Chimera to switch to the Goat head, in order to jump high into the air with Aden on toe and ...slam the poor solider deep against the ground, sending a powerful shockwave just moments after you hear the words...

"...Choral Magic「Final Song」"

Magic once again flows into Aden, although no one can be sure if it was in the nick of time or not since she took heavy damage and is at less than half her health. Yet here she was, keeping the chimera in bay while you continue your tactics of weakening the beast. In someway this was insulting since the beast saw Aden the greater threat than you. Not that you could blame it, just look at this powerhouse. Even if she was continuously buffed with different spells, her based power is positively absurd. Just where was she hiding all of this power. It almost makes you feel...envious of her.

"What are you doing Flaithrí! Aden is....Aden is....pushing for this decisive moment. We have to make our attack now!"

There was something more that Elena wanted to say. Something like "Aden is risking her life...and her sense of self." But she knew that Aden wouldn't want people to worry about her. Not when her party and countless people are in danger. So she bares the pain of the lion's claws and the Dragon's talons directly on her body as she keeps it in place.

Before it can continue to rip apart Aden further, a powerful shot comes from behind as the beast staggers from the blindsided move. You would see from in the distance that reinforcements have indeed arrive. Lucien team shows up from the back while Riku's team is coming from the right side of you.

>What do you do ?

>Attack
>Heal Aden
>Defend
>Something else

write in exactly how you would do one of the options
>>
>>3480359
>Pull Aden away and heal her.
What we learned is never skimp on healing if your very injured.
>>
>>3480076

That wasn't the only thing she was hiding in her suit as you probably start to see more beast like attributes coming from her tatted armor.
>>
>>3480359
If these buffs can be done again we should recover her. If not, we need to strike it with a drill spear, using spearshot. Aim for not the heads but the underbelly. On contact, we use plant spear to ensnare it. This will give the others enough time to recover Aden.

I reason that if the buffs are good enough and one time, we should use them as much as possible before she loses them during the recovery period.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3480371
>>3480390
>>
>>3480359
Oh yeah we need to heal her for sure do we have a way to cure the poison though?
>>
>>3480371
>>3480390
>>3480431

You decide to throw against your growing adrenaline and focus precisely on healing Aden. Especially considering that she was around one fourth of her health after taking that rapid assortment of blows from the four chimeras heads. The poison that was flowing through her body wasn't doing her favors....in fact it should have paralyzed her completely. So you are lead to believe she powered through sheer force of will, hence the greater strain on her body. The buffs seem to stay on her...no...it was more the fact Aden was refusing them to succumbed and release from the damage. She was really a kind woman.

You focus on using the strongest healing spell you know which at the moment was Fast heal. So you kept spamming Fast Heal in order to heal Aden and you also cast Resist poison. You didn't have the same experience that Melody has to completely purify the alignment, but with this you could keep it at bay while her life wasn't in danger. You manage to recover up to half her health. You could do all of it, but that would probably take all of your remaining MP to do.

"..Sir Mald if you please."

"Yes my Lord Lucien!"

In the brief moment you turn from Aden, you see a rather powerful and muscular knight seemingly tackle the Chimera to the side. Going as far as to disrupt his balance while keeping him at bay as he easily withstood the Chimera's goat ram without losing ground.

"Sir Welst if you would be so kind."

"Of course my lord, it has already been completed thanks to Lady Myne's assistance. Choral Magic「Magic Sealing」"

The Chimera found itself slowly unable to use mana as a spell circle forms around it as it drains it of it's ability to manipulate mana.

"Lady Myne, I gracefully ask your assistance."

"Already a done deal Lord Lucien. Zweite Hellfire!"

A massive ball of fire comes out from the sky. It seems to illuminate the area , giving the impression that it was like that of a miniature sun or a solar flare. It blazes beautiful as it turns to crimson before falling upon the Chimera. Mald the noble knight was teleported by the mage noble Welst. Leaving the beast to be incinerated by the flames of purgatory.


"Sir Rojeel, please use your skills to further punish this foul beast."

"You don't have to ask Lord Lucien."

The next up was a beautiful woman with blond hair as she twirls a rather large staff. On closer inspection it looks to be...a spear! Before you got to chance to question it, she sprinted across the battlefield in a blink of an eye, Twirling her spear in hand, she delivers a series of powerful thrusts as the wind from it only intensifies the hell flames further as the Chimera was pelted from multiple blows. Then it dawn upon you, that huge beam of light that stunned the creature imminently. It came from a single arrow.

con
>>
>>3480359
Heal her, the reinforcements can handle things while we hold it down. and I don’t trust mynne to not do friendly fire[\spoiler]
>>
>>3480538

You hate to admit it...but Lucien team was undoubtedly the real deal. Just how strong has he gotten in this past month and couple of weeks? It frustrated you immensely as he stood on a rock pillar with his four party members joining him now as well. Each one of them were high class and yet Lucien stood above them in a class of his own like a hero should.

"My apologizes Sir Flaithrí ..but help has indeed arrive. You can rest easy now and continue to fight to your hearts desire. My men will support you. Although..."

As Lucien says these words, he continue to hold an aura of superiority around him. Although he uses the Legendary Bow, there was something about him that seem almost intimidating to you. The historian nut in you think of this akin to a Roman Emperor more than the hero that Lucien strive himself to be.

"...it may look like that you're supporting me"

As you look at him feeling further frustration, your attention quickly turns to Riku who was moving with his next attack. The Chimera desperately tries to pick itself up and try to break out of the magical circle. Only for it to get another swift strike from the blunt side of the sword as Riku lands right next beside you after knocking the beast down.

"...I'm sorry....I got caught up eliminating all the monsters in this entire area. It wasn't by choice...yet I'm not going to make any excuses. So...let my party defends yours to make up for my lateness."

With that you see Elena and Vivian being guarded by Riku's men, another goes to pick Aden up and give her a proper piggy back in order to tend to her wounds by the Chinese looking woman. Leaving Riku to strike at the beast with a single sword arc. Causing the trees to split across from the sheer force of his swing along.

"...Stop looking so star struck Falathri. I said my men will take care of your party. So you should focus on helping me eliminate the chimera."

>What do you do/How do you Respond ?
>>
>>3480538
>On closer inspection it looks to be...a spear!
Is this woman the spear master we were looking for?
If so, fuck you and everything you stand for, Lucien.
>>
>>3480581

She's a master Spearsmen yes. Didn't even need to look at her enemy to predict what it was going to do and counter it accordingly.
>>
>>3480578
Try and keep our Irish temper from boiling over. Right now's not a good time to go off on the idiot when we already made a dent in the beast.

Instead back off and check our parties stats, the Chimera, and where the sword is. If these guys are stinger than us we should make sure they hit the monster soon.

And don't forget cursing ourself for having to placate our Irish pride. How these men became so powerful can be easily learned by companionship.
>>
>>3480578
Can I ask for a bit of elaboration on how Spear Link works? The description isn't the most clear. If we were to, say, link Spear Forest or Shooting Star Spear to a point inside of the Chimera, what would happen?
>>
>>3480621

Spear Link is a skill meant for setup and timed effects. It's gear towards setting traps and disrupting the flow of battle. If you were to put Spear Forest or Shooting Star Spear on the Chimera, it would be damaged by the assult and unable to avoid it fully as it's locked on to it. If it was used on your allies, it would spring the trap against the enemy and pushing them with the respect affect. Although if it was something like a buff, then they can manually trigger it to reap the benefits.
>>
>>3480640

It also has the potential for combo attacks when using different spear effects. It's a very versatile skill to make up for not having any offensive power on it's own.
>>
>>3480640
I was also wondering if it would be possible to get Spear Forest to go off inside an enemy, but that might be a little too broken.

Another question - do the projectiles of Shooting Star Spear have the effect of the spear used when it's activated?

I'm asking these because I want to improve another anon's Gae Bolg attack from last thread to kill the chimera while it's busy fighting the newcomers. I'll be damned if the other two heroes show up at the last second and steal all the glory when they've been busy doing fuck all to help.
>>
>>3480713

Nah thatt's too broken. Now if you were fighting a giant monster and you let it eat you....

And yes Shooting Star Spear retains the effects of the spear when used. But it's power isn't as strong as say you were using it to deal direct offensive damage.
>>
>>3480613
She's a master, obviously, but is she THE master from the mine shaft town that we heard about last thread? If she is, I'm going to be pissed.
>>
>>3480729

They're related.
>>
>>3480713
If we were to truely do a Gae Bolg, it would be something like

>first attacking with the Drill spear

>Set Spear to release vines when the heart is struck.

>Finish with Bane Spear in the heart.
>>
>>3480733
>she might be the Aife to our Scathach
This just got very interesting.

>>3480746
We may have to go with a very ghetto Gae Bolg for now, but I think we can sort of mimic the effect in a fast attack.
>Spear Shot with Obsidian Spear aimed at the chest
This should at least blow a hole in the enemy's defenses. After that:
>Cross Spear with Double Hound Spear, homing attack on the exposed heart
>>
Rolled 3 (1d3)

>>3480614
>>3480746
>>3480768
>>
>>3480614

I'ma save portions of this for the aftermath.

>>3480768

With the the captain of the knight order and several of his men showing up, it seem like the chimera's days are number. However...that wasn't good enough for you. Why should you let these people interfere when you did all the hard work? Why should they get the credit...no...the joy of fighting such a worthy foe? This was your fight, your glory, and your excitement! Nobody else was going to go near it! You're the Legendary Spear Hero! You are the only one who can truly do it! This was your legend, nobody else!

A question mark forms in your spear tree while your spear starts to glow. You don't notice it at the time...but something was coming. The die has been cast and for better or worse...things were about to get interesting.

Almost imminently you start to walk forward. Spear in one hand, you point at the beast, changing it to Obsidian Spear. The other heroes did a good job weakening it further and keeping at bay with your resources recovered. But that was it! Their part in this story was long since over. Now it's time for you to take the stage yet again. You merely whisper the words Spear Shot, releasing the power of the Obsidian Spear in full bloom against the Chimera's chest.

A highly concentrated explosion hits the Chimera, knocking it back and exposing a hole in the beast's defenses. The chimera tries to stand up, but you weren't going to stop there. No, you were going to make it suffer and sufffer and suffer again. You lusted for victory. With Cross Spear, you summoned the Double Hound Spear. The image of a sprinting two headed dog formed as it sprints against the Chimera, attacking directly at it's weak spot. You continue on with your relentless attack. Using Spear Shot over and over with both spears to continuously attack the beast. This was the first "Gae Bolg" you have created. For a first try...it was not too shabby, for it did the job and brought the beast down as your attack indeed the deliver the final shot after taking two other hero attacks simultaneously.

The Chimera was slained, it's body start to go cold as it lies on the ground lifeless and ravaged. This was quite gruesome all things considered. But the wave was over as the notification you needed appear. The red sky start to revert back to the now night sky. You take a moment to relish over the fight. Almost in a trance like state as Lucien and Riku walks forward to look at the Chimera.

"...That was rather excessive. Not that I can really show any sympathy for the beast. Still if you keep this up you'll be more of an executioner rather than a hero Sir Flaithrí."

"Nevermind that...we need to decide who is getting what. There's four heads and I can estimate that regardless of what we pick...all of the chimera series weapons will be unlocked. Even so...we should decide which head we should absorb into the weapon."

>which do you choose?
>>
>>3480865

>The Lion
>The Snake
>The Goat
>The Dragon
>You don't choose and focus on your party
>>
>>3480865
>>
>>3480869
Do we have sp left? I kinda wanna take a selfie with our kill and the party.
>>
>>3480869
>Focus in the party. We need to know if the Fort needs reinforcements to clear out the monsters.
>>
File: Chimera.png (329 KB, 599x595)
329 KB
329 KB PNG
>>3480896
>>
>>3480869
>The Dragon
Considering there's a purebreed dragon in our party, it feels appropriate.
>>
>>3480897

you have enough SP for that
>>
>>3480869
>selfie with party and Corpse
>The Dragon
>Check on village
In that order.
>>
>>3480924
Make sure Aden is front and center. She was the real MVP of that fight.

Man, the other heroes are going to think we're even crazier once they see we added our phone to our spear and are taking selfies with a corpse.
>>
>>3480897
This is me. I was phoneposting earlier.


>Say we want the dragon and we get first choice.(for misc reasons)
> Take a selfie with the prize with the party.
> Leave Elena as chief negotiator in the off chance they try some bullshit
>Say there are still the monsters in the towns so we can't dawdle at the corpse for now when it takes so long to absorb them into a spear.
>Tell spear lady that if she has anything she thinks I should learn she can help out at the side town. Nick can't deal any damage so that should be where the most monsters are at.
>Check out the side town , we got a sinking feeling that it's one of those things where they ignored a town on purpose again.
>>
>>3480949
We can tell.
>>
>>3480951
Wasn't sure i'd have the same IP on the phone at the time since I was still walking back home. I guess I was in range of my home wifi.
>>
>>3480949
+1
>>
>>3480907
>>3480924

"Your right Sir Riku. It would be important to decide who should get what. So in that case...I suppose I should...give first pick to Sir Flaithri."

"..What is the meaning of this?"

"There's nothing to say. Flaithrí got here first. And fought the beast longer than any of us. Also he had the misfortune of having one of his men get hurt. It's only fair to give him the best chance to improve."

"Such beautiful sportsmanship! To put the needs of others before his own and commit to giving fairness to his fellow man. Truly the shining example of Justice my lord!" Mald retort, once again praising and hyping Lucien up as the royal guards ultimately agree with his decision.

On the other hand Riku stares closely at Lucien while he continues to keep his smile and closes his eyes. You on the other hand were on conflict. On one hand it was exactly as Lucien said. You did the hard work and you should get first pick. However...when it comes from Lucien, it almost sound like he's pitying you. Not only that but this whole thing seems like you're the one who's being given grace rather than being the one to take claim for this victory. It was almost like you lost to him...to Lucien yet again.

This frustrates you further but you decide against acting further. Instead, you decide on taking the dragon head imminently without question. You strongly believe that since you contributed the most that you should get first pick. So you chose the symbol of the dragon. The dragon's essence flows into your spear as does the chimera as a whole.

"Well then I should also give Riku the next go since he been pushed far too hard compensating for the bumbling failure of a certain someone who isn't here."

"...It's nothing. Don't worry about it. I rather you pick instead. You are the one who held the most tactical approach to the waves and adjusted the plan for the greater good when things went off schedule."

Riku didn't like this as well, but he swallows his feelings on the matter and kept himself from getting from what he deemed to be the strongest on the head. Meanwhile Lucien surprises everyone by choosing the head of the goat rather than either the lion or the snake.

"..I think this one will suit me more in the end. Besides...Riku would like the Lion's head first more than me anyway."

Riku deeply glares at Lucian, knowing full well what he was doing. The goat was highly effective for someone like Lucian so he was not wrong about that. Yet here he was directly choosing for Riku in order to have him owe him a favor. He takes a deep breath before stabbing the sword against the lion, feeling the essence flow into his weapon. The three of you manage to get the Chimera's power inside of your blade as the respective animal you chose served as the vanguard for the strongest version of the weapons you unlocked.
>>
>>3480949
>>3480980
>>3480936
>>3480936

con

Seem like nobody went for the snake, something that you'll probably have to give to Nick when you get the chance. So you ask the rest of the crew if they wouldn't mind leaving disposal of the corpse to you.

"Suppose it can't be helped. You are the one who did deal the final blow."

"...It'll just disappear on its own. But what you choose to do is entirely on you. "

With that both groups start to leave. But not before you pull out your spear phone to start taking pictures. This completely confuse both parties as they see you doing something as silly as this. Although...it does give Riku and Lucien some ideas about the stuff that they themselves brought into the world. Still, they teleport out with their party before things got too weird.

At least, you stop the spear woman Rojeel from leaving. You quickly ask if not beg her to teach you as well as asked her if she will accompanying you to clear out the remaining monsters in the town.

"I can do the former, but unfortunately I have to take a rain check on the latter. I agree with having to eliminate the monsters in town. But I want to check back to my hometown to make sure they are safe. So I'll give you this transportation crystal. It'll take you to the estate that I am currently staying in castle town. When you're ready for it, just use it and I'll have my people greet you."

With that she disappears along with the rest of Lucien's party. Riku had already left, just leaving you with clean up as you find a way to deal with the chimera....Still you got the feeling that you should take another picture of the chimera to show to Nick.

Elena on the other hand sighs, placing her hand on her forehead while Vivian ended up getting star eyes from the spearphone.You naturally took some pictures of her and you, dragging Elena into it as well. You want to get Aden in it...but then you notice that she was passed out from the overexertion that she has done. So you decide to store the chimera in your inventory through the assistance of Vivian and your spear.

Afterwards you proceed to the side town that you saw Nick and Raphtalia. It would take a while to get there but you manage to do so. Unfortunately, it was exactly as you feared as the side town aka Lute Village was ravaged by the waves. The villagers were all right but it absolutely look like a war zone happened here. As you go talk to the villagers, they would tell you that a man with a shield and a tanuki fought to protect them from the waves and that Nick handled the beast all his own.

con
>>
>>3481009

Even though he didn't have any offensive capabilities on his own....he still fought to protect the people. That was both admiral...and envious for you at the same time. Part of you wish you could have been there. Fighting side by side to protect the people. >>3480614 Once again you reflect on the fact you let your ego and Irish temper get the best of you. How can you call yourself a hero when you weren't there when these people needed you most?

You begrudgingly leave despite still getting praise for stopping the waves. It felt hollow to you and you want to do more.

>Stay and fix the village
>Go back to the main town to check on the party and people
>Something else
>>
>>3481015
>>Stay and fix the village
They saw how we do things.
We'd be an absolute boon to these people.
>>
>>3481022
Yup, if we couldn't help them in the wave we will help them repair.
>>
>>3481015
>Stay and fix the village
With the Architect Spear, we should be able to do this fairly quickly.
>>
>>3481015
I'm assuming that the main town isn't very far we can pick up our party and go back to Lute Village. Disaster relief is such a basic idea that we can easily understand it.
>Pick up the party
>Use the core spear to manipulate the wood
>Architecture spear to make some basic housing until the local carpenters can fix things up as a whole
>Make some secret shelters
>Ask when they learned the wave was coming (I didn't read anything about fortifications broken so I'm thinking they weren't even informed.)
>Warn them that they were being purposely ignored, so be careful incase it's a scheme instead of mere indifference.
>Make Ice cream for everyone


There's a structure I want to make that Florian should know about. Gonna google it in a second.
>>
>>3481050
Not quite the same thing as I was thinking of, but it's from the same region and useful enough.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qanat
>>
>>3481022
>>3481024
>>3481043
>>3481050

You felt immense guilt over the situation. Had you known about the village you could have done something. You could've extended your aid to rectify and support this land. You wish you weren't as powerless as you were right now. It all happened because you were reckless and fought against the plant golem. Maybe if you spent more time training you could've defeated it without question and didn't end up getting hospitalized for several days. Maybe you should've been smarter and did more research on the waves and pick out which towns needed to be protected to ensure that all of them were safe. Just what in the hell were you really doing this past month?

Thinking all these thoughts made you come to a decision. You tell the party to go meet up with everyone in the main village. You were going to stay here and help the villagers. It was for the best as Aden needed some serious medical attention. Yet you couldn't bring yourself to leave this village unattended.

"...We're going to meet up with the rest. After we gotten Aden somewhere safe and attended to...we'll come back to pick you up. So don't go overexerting yourself again. I don't need to tell you why that's a bad idea."

Elena gives you a stern look on her face. You meet her eye to eye, feeling rather shameful of what has happened. You don't have a reply but Elena already knew that. So she takes Aden off your hands and with Vivian's help manage to begin walking to the main village.

That just leaves you to repair the entirety of the village. It was going to take a lot of work to do excactly what you set out to do here. >>3481050 >>3481061 Even so, you bring yourself to not half-ass the job. You put in your all to take this seriously and use Core Spear and Architect Spear to make the basics. You even go as far as to make some secret shelters, repair the watch toward, reconstruct the well and even make the Qanat. Of course doing all this would take the entire night for you. While you work, you decided to lift the people's spirits by making ice cream. You were real thankful to Vivian for teaching you as well as she did about combination magic. The ice cream you make has a wondrous effect on the people and lift their spirits.


Eventually, as it was mid morning, you were still asleep in the village. Once again you did exactly what you weren't suppose to do and now you were currently sleeping on a pile of logs. The last thing you would remember was talking to the village about the waves attack. As you fear they had very little information about it, only that the knights would come to protect them. So all they could do was pray for that to be true. It was hard to tell if it was on purpose or not that this village was ignored. Yet you still decide to put in the extra effort to give them protection in case the knights don't come. And that's what ultimately led you to this fate as Rifana finds you on the pile of logs.

con
>>
>>3481084

"...I should've known...."

Rifana mutters to herself, picking you up and started her long track back to castle town.

>Wake Up
>Sleep some more
>Pretend to be asleep
>Something else
>>
>>3481089
Don't forget your ice cream, There's still some in the Qanat over there.
>>
>>3481089
Well guys, considering the QM didn't let us have a chance to help Shield boy I'm going to assume we were mind controlled. So,

>Contemplate why we chose to go for the Chimera? Didn't we say we were going to help Shield Boi?
>>
>>3481104
That's probably under write-in since we did "agree" to the pincher thing at the meeting.
But you could contemplate how weird is is that meeting the pope gave you the same feeling as the plant boss did?
>>
>>3481104
QM is enforcing full "exactly as stated" rules. Unless he doesn't understand or feels it isn't important, you gotta be specific on the who and the where.

>>3481089
>Wake up
>Ready to go meet Nick and Raph?
>>
>>3481089
How are we being carried?

>>3481104
QM made it pretty clear that Flaithri was convinced by everyone at the strategy meeting to go after the boss.
>>
>>3481118
On second thought, it doesn't much matter how we're being carried.

>Wake Up
>"Shouldn't I be the one carrying you?"
>>
>>3481126
>>3481118
>Implying you don't know we're probably being princess carried.
>>
>>3481089
>>3481126
>>3481116

'You slowly wake up after feeling someone lift you up and carrying you across the fields. Slowly your eyes open up, noticing that it was Rifana that was carrying you. You were hunched back on her back, barely off the floor as she continues to walk. She was no Aden, but Rifana didn't slack off on her physical training.

>>3481093 you open up with telling her about the ice cream. She was embarrassed by the fact that you would remember such a thing. It also doesn't help that you tease her about you being the one to carry her like she was little. Thankfully Rifana was too kind to really drop you, but she was obviously pouting as she takes you to where the ice cream was made. It doesn't take you long to show her how it works and getting her the best batch you can muster.

"...Honestly...you come up with the strangest of things. ...Even when I think I finally got a read on you...you keep surprising me like this."

She goes to eat the ice cream. Her eyes sparkable a bit from how tasty it was. It made her completely stunned and shocked by the substance. There was a strong compulsion to eat more and more....until. A sharp pain hits her head, making her pull back while she holds the ice cream. You quickly explain to her the dangers of brain freeze. Rifana naturally lectured you for not warning her about it prior. The two of you share a moment with the ice cream. Eventually you start to think about >>3481104
.You were so adamant in wanting to help the Shield Hero. Even though the Pope, Lucien, the Royal kinights, and countless influential figures sided with the pincer formation, you were still against risking possible damage for the people. More importantly, it didn't seem right to you that they were forcing Nick to do the heavy lifting and protect the people. In fact.....did he even get the letter about the plan? So many questions start to run through your mind the more you think about it. Why were you won over by the pope to fight the chimera? Why did you feel so empty when it came to battles? And whenever that emptiness was replaced with excitement, why did you imminently go to it? Just what exactly is going on? The more you try to weasel through for answers, the more your head start to hurt. Ultimately Rifana broke the silence and asked you if something was wrong. You didn't want to worry her so you told her nothing. Instead deciding to change the subject about wanting to go meet with Nick and Raph. Rifana turned her head from you, looking down at the ground as she has a sad look on her face.

con
>>
>>3481176

"..Not yet...I'm still not at the level where I can be with her as I'm really am. ...But I'm getting closer to it...little by little...Like for instance, I didn't run from the waves. ...I went and protected so many people from the monsters. I even fought some offspring's of the Chimera...the Nue. With Andros and Melody there...we didn't let anyone die. So you don't need to worry. ...I can protect the people now....It won't....ever be like my village again."

It was clear that she was shalen up about the first wave. I mean who could blame her. It was only a few months at least since the first wave. Then there was what happened to her village and her ultimate fate as a slave. You still don't know the full story about her experience, but it was clear that she still wasn't over it. That being said, you go to hug Rifana, letting her embrace the warmth while letting her cool down. Only once was she was ready again do the two of you begin to talk again.

"...Anyway...there's another reason why I can't meet with them right now. I need to stay and watch Blake. Aden is still in recovery and Melody hasn't left her side since. Not to mention there's call for the heroes to go to the royal palace. That means you need to show up and present yourself to the King. I'm sure nick will be there. So go wish them luck for the both of us alright?"

She placed her right hand against your chest, smiling as she fist bump you. Part of you wanted to stay with Rifana and go check up on Aden. You need to properly apologize to her for what happened. As well as perhaps apologize to Blake for absorbing one of their cousins. Unfortunately, you were requested to go to the King and head out to the Ball. It was better in the long run that you do so. So two of you teleport back to Castle town to get ready.

Who do you take with you?

>Take Elena
>Take Andros
>Convince Melody to come with you
>Go solo
>>
>>3481202
>Go solo
>>
>>3481202
>>Go solo
No one in our party is willing to go to the lions' den. We'll just have to go by our lonesome.
>>
>>3481202
>Take Elena
She's on merchant duty: securing deals like guaranteed sales of our monster bits/potions in exchange for an increased markup and access to certain privileges.

We're going to need a dedicated blacksmith at some point.
>>
>>3481202
>Take Elena. She can note whatever common sense we don't have that he's trying to abuse. Andros would be a semi hostile choice in the eyes of the King and Melody might immediately die since we never got told which person.
>Tell her to keep an eye on the status screen. That thing with the plant making me attack it felt way more familiar than it should have.
>>
>>3481202
>Take Elena
If a high-class event is on the agenda, there's only one woman for the job.
>>
>>3481214
>>3481221
>>3481224

You decided to take Elena and Vivian [Forgot her so I'm going to assume you want her as well] to the party once you reunited with the party. Being in castle town after hearing several of your party's backstories so far made you uneasy and a bit on edge.

So you felt safer leaving the girls who weren't coming with Andros. With him around you didn't have to worry about any kidnapping or assassination attempts. Not to mention, a former noble showing up to the King would probably be quite the controversial choice. And you weren't sure if Andros could really temper his blade and not attempt assassinating the king. You want to believe he's far smarter then that, but then again so you are you and look where you are now.

With Elena's help, she got you a more formal version of the clothing you usually wear for adventuring. Now you didn't look like some mad spearman but still was prepared for almost anything that can happen. You also mention to Elena that she was on merchant duty and to keep an eye on your status at all times.

"Yeah I got it. So what I also been doing since joining your party."

The two of you laugh while Vivian slowly comes out from the changing room in a beautiful gown. She looked rather cute for someone so young. Meanwhile, Elena was wearing a suit. She was a little tense so she didn't felt like wearing a ballroom gown for the meeting. A dress suit was far more fitting since she was practically your secretary.

So without any further delays, you make your way to the palace and meet with the King. Upon reaching the gate you exchange words with the Captain of the Knight Order. He leads you inside to have an audience and party with the King.

con
>>
>>3481268

"Ladies and Gentlemen, it does your King's heart well to see you all have come here safely. As you know we managed to successfully defeat the second wave. There were very little casualties but this is a massive improvement compared to the first wave. So I consider this to be a success. And it all couldn't have been done without the efforts of our military, the continued faith of the church. But most of all...our Cardinal Heroes working together to defeat the mighty Chimera. So I decree a toast. A toast to our efforts as we continue to tackle the waves together and save not just the kingdom, but the entire world as well."

Wise words from King Aultcray Melromarc XXXII. Well...wiser than anyone else in this blasted kingdom at least when it comes to the nobility. The crowd naturally cheered and everyone raised a toast to his words...all except one person. Nickolas on the other hand was stationing himself in the back. He had no interest in following orders if he didn't have to. This was probably for the best as he didn't draw any attention.

That just leaves you to enjoy the party. Elena was naturally securing deals and spreading your work. She would make her heritage proud...but don't tell her that. Vivian on the other hand was eating several of the sweets, as well as to seemingly get along with Raphtalia of all people. In the back of your head you can naturally assume that Vivian was feeling a little breast envy with being surrounded by people like Raphtalia. And yet she was still having a good time...in her own way.

That just leaves you. So how will you spend your moments here?

>Eat the food
>Head to Nick
>Talk to Riku
>Go Find Lucian
>Look for Myne
>Talk to the King
>Talk with Pope Gregory
>Something else

write in your dialogue
>>
>>3481295
>Nick

"Hey Nick, did you ever receive my message before the wave? I heard what happened to that small village and I wanted to thank you. No one told me about the place even though it was in the middle of the damn wave."
>>
>>3481295
>>Head to Nick
>>
>>3481295
>Head to Nick
>Give the chimera bits
>>
>>3481300
This plus
"Also, I have something for you; the last head of the chimera. Probably shouldn't give it to you right here and now, but when you're ready let me know."
>>
>>3481295
>See if there are any foreign dignitaries. You want them to regale you with tales of their land. (trying to push the envelope on that "can't leave Melomarc" thing Nick said. Word spreading back about the heroes wanting to leave Melomarc but not being allowed to could put some political pressure to let us explore further without being too confrontational since we personally were never told we couldn't except by Riku.

>Talk to Nick I guess those reinforcements dedicated to protecting the towns worked exactly as planned, eh? I also have the last head of the chimera, apparently the other guys think things despawn but i've not seen that for myself yet.
>>
>>3481300
>>3481303
>>3481306
>>3481309

You decide foremost that talking to Nick takes priority above all else. You still want to try and get some journals from the Pope, talk to Myne about the mission quest, discuss with Riku about the dragon that he killed, and perhaps push your pride aside and get a better stand in with Lucien. This all seems like one complex game with multiple choices. Although for you, it was more living the story written by a famous historian writer. Still, this was reality and reality required you to face it head on.

"...Go away. I don't want to be dragged into some stupid endeavor."

Nick imminently tries to push you away upon you approaching him. Once again he was being rather distant and defensive. This was once again similar to Riku but more bleak and cold. Like he doesn't even want to open up. Not that it wasn't like it was not warranted. This country seems to hate the Shield for reasons that you still don't understand fully. Yet you know deep down that Nick was a good man. A rather broken and morally questionable man but a good one all the same. So you press forward, asking him about the wave including the message and thanking him for protecting the village.

"...Huh...Is that so? I find it hard to believe that a Cardinal Hero other than me wouldn't be told about the villages that were under attack. Not to mention I didn't hear a damn thing about the meeting or receive a message. And I previously met the captain of the royal order. Practically shot fire on us to kill the monsters but didn't give a damn about us or the possibility that it could hurt the villagers. The only one with an actual sense of decency is his Vice Captain and his men. They're the ones who actually stayed behind and helped me and Raphtilia fought off the waves till it was cleared."

This was completely different from the Captain of the Royal order told you. He said the shield hero tore up the letter and chose to ignore it altogether. Caring about his own safety over yours or so the messenger he sent off to deliver it said. This wasn't adding up. Still as a show of good faith, you offer to give Nick the last head of the Chimera. As well as converse here >>3481327


"I'd say that lines up precisely what the others would think. They're already disillusioned about this world being more than just a game.And since when did you become a builder? ...Fine I'll take it. I can't exactly turn down the guy who killed the Chimera now can I? "

Logically both of you were saying all of this with the auto-translator off. You didn't want to give any further fuel to the fire. You then proceeded to giving the fourth head. A small light comes between the two of you as the transfer begins.

con
>>
>>3481365
With that you successfully manage to transfer the chimera head. The Serpant merged with Nick's shield, unlocking the chimera shield series for him and the snake being the strongest one he unlocked so far. You try and use this chance to talk about sharing info with one another until suddenly...

Myne of all people shows up with several others.

"Ah Sir Flaithrí, I been looking for you. I wanted to talk to you about some things privately. But it seems that would be unnecessary as I gather you came to directly confront the shield hero about his misdeeds. Such as...owning a slave and forcing them to fight on their behalf like a dog."

A bold claim from Myne Sophia as the crowd was positively shocked by this. Shock quickly turned to disdain and anger as people start to whisper with great haste. Nick on the other hand glares at Myne before turning his head.

"So what if I'm using a slave? Slavery is legal here in Melromarc. And as far as I'm concern that's good enough for me to use. Besides, countless people use Demi-humans like they're not even real people."

The counter argument from Nick as he refused to back down from Myne. She kept her cool, placing her right hand on her hips while the two were having this stand off. Although it was clear that Nick was certainly in a disadvantage. Before you can speak up, Myne starts to speak again.

"Not only did you not show up and defend the main village, let alone and show up to fight against the chimera. You start to throw dirt in our face in this sacred celebration? As well as justify the harsh treatment that your doing to that poor demi-human? I knew that you were rotten but that's a whole new low for you. "

Nick started to get really angry at Myne, coming close to jumping from the window to directly attack her. Yet he keeps himself from moving from the spot before slowly walking away to calm his nerves.

"Hmm...Sir Flaithrí. Didn't you once say that the next time you see the shield hero that you'd teach him a lesson? I think this would be a good opportunity by challenging him to a one on one duel in the arena."

In hindsight, you probably shouldn't have said that as it seems a lot of the people in the room remembered such claims. How you were going to teach him a lesson and smack him good. It doesn't look like anyone knows about your one on one duel with Nick, but that didn't change the bind you were currently in.

>How do you respond?

>Decline her offer
>Accept her offer
>Make an excuse
>Something else
>>
>>3481392
>Bring our spear to bear against her.

"I will not be a part of your schemes, bitch."

What other things I am not against are

>Killing her now

>Agreeing to a staged fight.

or

>"Yeah, we did that already."
>>
>>3481404
The staged fight is where the Shield beats us up horribly. Maybe we can lure that mind control out and find out who it is. Bet you they will try and make us fight harder.
>>
>>3481392
>I already beat the crap out of him weeks ago,(Clearly we won that punchout!) testimony from the nearby village told me that he was busy fighting some sort of sub-boss that had arrived, I had personally improved the reinforcements around the main city as well as leaving behind some members of my party to handle any surprises that might trouble the knights,and I found a half dead and starving child with a slave mark within your very dungeons shortly after my arrival. You do not get to lecture anyone on the barbarity of slavery.
>Now if any of the heroes wish a duel, I am more than willing to take up the offer.
>>
>>3481392
>Make an excuse
> "I did that already. Clearly he hasn't learned much. Maybe I'm just not a good teacher."

>>3481404
>>3481422
What happened to maintaining appearances with Myne?
>>
>>3481392
Do we have a spear that can protect us from mind-altering affects? If so,
"Shield Bearer, I challenge you to a one-on-one duel. Our weapons would be our own bodies and fists. If I win, you must consider your slave your proper party member and to consider her words. If you win, I will give you an item of your a rare item of your choosing."
>>
>>3481427
She probably already knows we have Demi-humans in our party. She has a pretty strong opinion against them.
>>
>>3481427
I suppose I can leave out the last line about how she can't lecture anyone. There's maintaining appearances, and then there's acting like a complete idiot who can't put 2+2 together.

Perhaps a line change where we point out that it's impossible to let them go without the expectation that they might be enslaved again at this point in time?
>>
>>3481427
At one point our compliance is detrimental to our fate. We will be fucked over like the last spear if we don't take hold and either A: Leave the Country or B: Call the Filth and hope our fellows realize they are being played.

I say we can call her out now because we will be leaving soon.

>>3481428
We are not Immune to Mind-Control Effects. We are only immune to Slave Seals. But all this was said by the Bastards who we are not trusting.
>>
>>3481444
>>3481448
But there's still Melody to consider. We were perfectly pleasant to her when she was talking to Melody in the temple because crossing her could very well put Melody in danger. Why are we going back on that?
We don't need to comply, but we don't need to make a scene, either. All eyes are on us right now.

>>3481435
Myne probably knows that we have a slave, but she hasn't called us out on it. I think it's clear she just wants to make Shield look bad.
>>
>>3481448
Actually scratch the Slave Seal being suspicious, that was the Slave trader. Funny enough hes the most trustworthy guy in this entire world.
>>
>>3481454
Then we quickly kill her. If the curse goes off then we can offically declare that the Kingdom has killed our party member and declare this place scum of humanity.

I know its heartless, but we got fucked over by taking the poor girl in. Here she's likely more powerful than any of our party members, but her skills were sealed and she might be both a ticking time bomb and a mole.
>>
>>3481448
It was said by the help text we read early on that we're immune to slave seals so there is corroboration on that front. We also skip the need for level uncapping.
>>3481454
I think you see it as more antagonistic than I do, but given her personality, that is a reasonable fear.
Perhaps advising the people here(that should all be reasonably powerful) to make an emancipation proclamation if so many truly do detest slavery would be in order? They all stuck thier foot in thier mouth by using that as a reason against Nick so now they HAVE to do it in order to save face.
>>
>>3481404
>Accept her offer
she's going to cheat. She's going to hit Nick. Re-read that line: She's going to attack one of the legendary heroes meant to save the world.

>Make new terms to the duel
>If Nick wins, we give him money and material aid
>If we win, our demi-human party members will "judge" him for his actions lol
>When the duel is rendered null and void, get both terms done

>>3481428
Yes, the Core spear. We should do the whole fight while only using that spear, really.
>>
>>3481465
But why risk losing our healer Melody for the chance to screech at Myne in a situation where it will do fuck all except piss off everyone present? I just don't understand what we're supposed to gain from your plan.

>>3481470
How is ranting at her about tangentially related issues anything but antagonistic?
>>
>>3481465
The seal on her looks/sounds like it's the same sort of magic as a slave seal but modified to me. We got ourselves knocked out for a week so we never were able to discuss ways of getting rid of it in the temple.

A) Cut off her tongue and then use healing magic to regrow said tongue
B)Outlevel it the seal (This is my long term plan and why we should powerlevel Before Mynne notices, If Melody was forced to say we should not level too fast instead of it being true then it means Mynne knew Melody would be able to resist it eventually.
C) Learn how to remove slave seals or dispel magic
D) make her a new body somehow, transfer herself into that one and kill the old body
>>3481487
I didn't see it as a rant. Mynne just rattled off a massive list of things we had to correct while looking perfectly innocent. It's not like we didn't object to the fight. A guy that can attack vs somebody that can't (as far as we know)is extremely one sided now that you have actually given mye time to think of it so it hardly even qualifies as a duel. We'd be better off looking for Lucien or Riku on that end.
>>
>>3481518

>>3481422
I'm removing the bit about that village saying he helped them since that puts a HUGE target on their faces. I was slightly worried about it but the more you argue she's gonna murder melody, the clearer it is that Mynne and her cohorts are gonna wipe the village from the map in retribution or to silence them.
>>
>>3481475
This is what I will agree with. Its both clever and a good way for us to fuck them over.

We just need at one point to really need to fix Melody. Again, that seal is fucking both her and us over so much.
>>
>>3481475
There is clear opposition to my earlier vote and I am ok with tricking her when it comes to the duel. Mynne might not actually have the information network she used to have after being stupid enough to fuck over her own bodyguard like that.
>>
>>3481518
Myne rattled off that list of things specifically so that they couldn't be cut down one-by-one. Of course countering everything will look like an angry rant. As for the one-sidedness of the duel, if Nick's powers are anything like ours, he's got a few tricks up his sleeve.

>>3481475
>>3481528
I'm okay with accepting the duel. I say we either throw without looking like we threw, or if Myne cheats to help us win like >>3481475 says we justifiably complain about interference (without indicating Myne directly since Melody) and say we won't accept the victory because of it.
>>
>>3481568
>Sounds to me like Mynne has never encountered a single person half decent at debate or capable of being too stupid to not tell the truth and ruin her plans without dying.


I'd be against actually throwing away the duel. We've got our honour here and if she cheats to win it makes it sting even more when her scheme does nothing.
>>
>>3481404
>>3481422
>>3481427

You decide to make the excuse that a fight would be pointless. You and the Shield Hero already fought once before and you strongly believe that you won. Not really helping with things considering that Nick is interrupting you by saying that he won that fight. Something kick into you to argue back saying you won. Probably your irish hotblooded nature just making you unable to admit defeat. The of you quickly stop bickering when you decide to go back to telling the nobles that you fixed the damages and had your trusty party compensating. So there was no need to berate Nick for all of this. However...

"That might be all well and good. But you can't exactly be cleaning up for his messes. Also there's nobody to really prove that you did what you say. Besides..."

Myne shocks the both of you by pulling you close and whispering into your ear.

"I'm sure my best friend would love to see you fight for her. She always talked about the legends of the four heroes when we were kids.The Spear Hero for example was her favorite hero~I'm sure the spear hero would do anything for those who believe in him. So if not for justice and retribution. Then fight for your own personal interests. Like for glory...or for Melody's sake. Or should I say her real name....Rinora Hawkins. "

With that something in you practically pulsed within you. You start to grip your hand against your chest, a black smoke seems to seemingly come out from your body as your spear starts to glow a rather crimson shade. There was blackness in the orb. You felt the need to fight...you were going to fight. This empty feeling was going to be quenched. Most of all...you were going to give Melody exactly what she needed. You were going to save Melody and give her everything she wants. She is your Melody and nobody can have her.

"Curse Series requirements....have been fulfilled. Spear of Lust...acquiring"

You slowly rise after almost giving everyone a scare. Myne on the other hand continues to have her smile as she talks about a legendary fight being formed. Of course she still talked down on it being a one sighted fight since she saw the Shield hero as a weakling.

That's when you decide to step in with some requirements. >>3481475 You agree to the fight, making a rather sinister look on your face. But you want a one on one fight. The terms you decided. Myne opens her eyes rather slowly before closing them to resume her smile.

"Fine with me...but if the terms are null and voided..then all of them get done. And that includes...the freedom of that slave over there."

Myne directly points to Raphtalia who was just now captured by the knights. Tied and Gagged, the poor Tanuki Demi-human could not speak up to stop this battle.

con
>>
I told you all we should have stabbed the bitch.
>>
>>3481642
And become the enemy this deep in the country, inside the royal castle? Stop being the big dumb.
>>
>>3481609

"It's for her safety. After all, slave seals can be modified to do a whole bunch of things. So for all we know the shield hero could have manipulated the seal to force her to say exactly what he wants. It's why Slave Seals are such a troubling thing and have been deeply contained...or so we thought. But that's for later. What do you say...my king?"

Myne turns her attention to the King as he was watching all of this happens. He has a stern look on his face while standing between his staff.

"If that's what the people want then I will abide to the rules. They will all be done accordingly. So if Sir Flaithri then Nickolas will be judged accordingly by his party and the slave crest will be removed so there will be no lies or deception. If Nickolas wins, then money and material aid will be provided by Sir Flaithri personally. It'll be a one on one fight. The first one to fall will be the loser. Until the fight begins, the two of you will be barn from talking to anyone in order to prepare your souls for combat. I take it neither of you have any disagreements?"

King Aultcray Melromarc XXXII surprisingly was rather accepting and...fair about the terms. It seem like things were going your way. But you could honestly care less about that. Right now you wanted to fight, you have to fight. You wanted satisfaction in every sense of the word. Nickolas knew that if he turns down then he would lose the only chance he has to save Raph. So he begrudgingly agrees.

The two of you were escorted to your respective arena holds to think about the next fight. All your skills, all of your training, all of your experiences were preparing for this moment. But before you leave, Riku surprises everyone by mentioning a phrase.

con
>>
>>3481645

"In my world there used to be an old saying. The unstoppable Spear vs the impenetrable Shield. There was a warrior who held both of these weapons. He was practically invincible as he never lost. He was praised as the strongest hero....but one day....one of his followers asked about his items which he explained. Then the followed pointed out the paradox between the two. Which was truly stronger ? The Spear or The Shield. I think this battle will serve as a demonstration to prove this legend."

"That's a rather interesting purposeful Riku. And the people do want to see such an outcome. Honestly I'm in the same boat. I want to see what these two can do. Even so, I believe that everything will be brought to light in this match."

And there's the personal views between Riku and Lucien. Seems even they are supporting the fight as there was no way around it now. The two of you were brought to your respective areas to plan and think. Only when the doors open did the two of you proceed to walk into the arena.

How do you start the battle ?
>>
>>3481673
Stick only to Core spear. This will be the only handicap we'll use to even the fight.

Test him with the multiple thrust skills. Its not quite a fistfight but itll do.
>>
>>3481682
+1
I guess the shit affecting us was the spear itself. Damn thing was driving us closer to battle lust until it unlocked the curse series. Guess it makes sense, but damn we're we unlucky.
>>
>>3481673

For the record, I did some digging and I want to correct myself on a previous statement in the other thread. The pink haired Dancer is Rino and the mage is Lesty in terms of the original spear hero party. So I apologize if this seems a little off but for the good of the story I want to be more consistent/accurate.

PS: Fuck the anime and the translation for the manga.
>>
>>3481692
I didnt dig too deeply, but I think its a "feature" built into the weapons left in because it either cant be removed without sacrificing several weapon trees or the power is just too useful.

Terrible idea? Yes, but so is creating giant mindless monsters to kill people to strengthen the barrier and indirectly supporting incredibly corrupt styles of governance
>>
>>3481642
>>3481609
Elena HAD to have caught that sudden status effect if it wasn't totally obvious to us already.
And spear of Lust? Melody's booty game must be phenomenal for mentioning her to bring that out.
>>3481643
Not to mention the other heroes would attack us before things got sorted out thanks to what it looks like.

>>3481645
Well the King goes up higher in the suspicio-meter. Noone's allowed to talk to either of us? Seems like a way to keep anyone from noticing our altered state of mind.
>>3481673
We seem to be bloodlusted,which makes things much more dangerous for Nick. I think the intent here is to make us accidentally kill him?
Spear shot
Follow up with a basic thrust and explosion from whatever obsidian spear has evolved into by now.
That took out a chunk of SP (i think?) but we can conserve it afterwards since shield hero now has to be wary of us sending a spear shot at him and is on the defensive.
>>3481692
Well we are slightly behind everyone else. I could see the spear "encouraging" us to get more exp.
>>
>>3481713
I was personally thinking that the spear either activated as a way to urge us to get exp, or it reacted to mynne's mind control since while in a half berserk state we can't be manipulated as easily by anything else she might have been trying to brainwash into us.
>>
>>3481715
Lust isnt only sexual. We've had 3 triggers for lust already

Beauty/sexual
BloodLust
Touch fluffy

.....of course, its no surprise for anons to not realize when theyre under the Lust ailment and pick touch fluff automatically
>>
>>3481720
What I'm waiting for is if we defeat Nick, that we turn around and attack everyone else.

We are in a Curse Series weapon, almost no one can stop us unless both the bow and sword work together. Even then though their chances of victory is slim if we use whatever ability QM gave it. I'm just hopping it's actually Gae Bolg based on the description.
>>
>>3481673
Lightning spear and Spear Forest. I don't think he'll be moving much, but I'd like to immobilize him before he can pull any tricks. Keeping him as unable to retaliate as possible is our best bet considering how tanky he is.

>>3481682
I'm not sure we can afford to handicap ourselves, or if it would even be in character at this stage. I'd like to, sure, but since the spear is mind controlling us to go wild for Melody's sake and Myne just threatened Melody's life right to our fucking face, I think Nick can take a little beatdown. Clearly, he isn't convinced that he lost the last round, so this is also our chance to correct that notion.
>>
>>3481757
It's no surprise that the intonation to indicate it's a joke doesn't always translate on the internet or to anons.
>>3481759
It's worse than that really. We have the same general advantage Naofumi had from bonus stats, the high level weapons that were in the armoury that the OG heroes were using to "skip" ahead, AND a curse series weapon.
We might give Florian the fear of death before Rifa or somebody else stops us.
>>
>>3481682
>>3481692
>>3481715

You wanted a challenge. You wanted a true fight worthy of carnage. There could be nothing else. Satisfaction is all that matters. You lust for victory, but right now you want to be satisfied. Nickolas will give that to you. You current level was 35 while Nick's was around 21. There was an over ten level gap between the two of you. This was going to be child's play for you. But why not have fun making him suffer to satisfy you?

Starting off with the Core Spear, you start with a simple spear shot thrust. Nick on the other hand completely endures the attack as it seems to have no effect on his shield. This surprises you as the two of you oppose one another while holding ground.

"...heh. Seems like the story about the unstoppable Spear lost because it could not break through the impenetrable shield. "

You yell at him that nobody was going to accept that. You demand that he fight. This was a fight where can only be one winner. Pushing Nick to fight at his best while you will fight to destroy him. These weren't words that you would say normally. It was probably the Spear of Lust affecting you to be so filled with bloodlust...and actual lust.

The next combo you decide to go with was a flurry of strikes via Chaos Spear. Tries as he might, Nick couldn't deflect all of them as a few cuts bruise his right and left arm. The very sight of blood motivates you further. Although the Spear of Lust wasn't out directly...it's influence was starting to take hold as it gradually forms from within.

As you go to prepare for another strike with your spear, Nick times his run to avoid your attack. Once he was close to you, he slams his shield directly at your chest, lifting you up. There was little damage as it was nothing to worry about. Yet for some reason...there was something dealing more damage over time.

What do you do?

>Take notice of what has happened
>Continue to fight
>Something else
>>
>>3481800
>Take notice?

Eh, what is this? Really.
>>
>>3481800

also write in your dialogue on how the battle is going.
>>
>>3481800
>Take notice of what has happened
Switch to defense while we check. Do the spear twirl thing.

I dont remember what the lust effect does. Greed destroys your equipment while Wrath respecs stats to attack. Was lust something that drains hp?
>>
>>3481835

For Motoyasu, the Lust and Envy combo makes him obsessive over Filo and her race but also see most women as pigs. Literal pig faces and can only hear them speak as oink.

I'm thinking of Disillusion here but also taxing against you, either HP or MP for the high risk, high reward that comes from blood-lust.
>>
>>3481800
>Take notice and remember to glance at your status screen during the next pause in combat.
>Lightning spear now that we've got him right where we want him. He's wearing all metal and in close contact.
Then we use the appropriate earth type spear ability to chuck him into the air like Toph and setup our next move or check our status screen.
If it's that bio seed like I suspect we can just burn it off in an explosion.
>>
>>3481800
>Take notice of what has happened
>Lightning spear, supporting >>3481842
"You call that an attack, Shield-bearer? I think you fight better with your fists than that 'legendary weapon' of yours!"
>>
Wait, are these just the balloons biting.
>>
>>3481800
>Take notice of what has happened
Supporting use of lightning spear. I propose use of Spear Forest afterward to immobilize him.
"Can you feel it yet? The weakness of a shield is that it can't cover your whole body!"
>>
>>3481849
If it's balloons we can just do something cool like casting fire on ourselves (with a fire+ resist spear active)for half a second to remove anything attached to us.
>>
>>3481819
>>3481835
>>3481842
>>3481845
>>3481845
>>3481850

It seems despite the overwhelming bloodlust that was slowly consuming your mind, body and soul....you were still resisting in some way. It hasn't completely taken control over you or else you would've went full power right off the bat. However, the longer the battle goes, the more your will will start to disappear and be replaced with the lustful desires trapped with in. Both from you and from the spear itself. So with your half-aware clarity, you look down to see a balloon of all things biting against you. >>3481819
Such a thing would be completely laughable if it wasn't actually working.

" Seems you discover my trap. Balloon Body Armor. Even if I can't deal a lot of damage on my own....my shield's power gives me the advantage when it comes to support and defense. You won't be able to pierce through my defenses and my Magic Aura will continue to power up my little friends...till they're strong enough to bring you down.!"

You start to laugh at this. At first you comment as >>3481845 . At the same time, you stomp your foot on the ground as you make a rather devilish smile. This fight was getting interesting. You knew that Nickolas would be the one to quench your thirst! As you spin your spear, naturally you activate the skill Spear Wheel Dance to blow away the balloons that were on you, removing any aliment that was also on you from their bite. Nickolas takes notice of this as he holds two balloons in his hands. Naturally you begin to rush towards him as you slowly start to switch spears.

"I won't let you! Air Strike Shield!'

A massive green construct in the shape of a shield manages to manifest out nowhere. It collided against you, dealing damage as it didn't come from the shield but rather the knockback damage you receive from moving towards it. It seems that Nickolas was finding ways around his predicament...which was good. Very good for you cause that means you didn't have to hold back!

" Shield Prison!"

...Once you get back to form, you prepared yourself to combat the onslaught of balloons that were coming at you. However, a entire cage made out of shields and chains manifest and "Capture" you inside. Now trapped with a ravenous army of balloons, you would be force to try and survive. Easier said then done however given that you were unable to fully use your spear skills to their fullest capability in this tiny spot. So the only thing to do was to take their blows and wait it out. This still worked in your favor as it gives time for you to regain SP and switch from Core Spear...to Lightning Spear.

con
>>
If only Myne had talked us into going up against Lucien instead. One day...
>>
>>3481903
Can't say I blame her for not wanting her boy toy to get penetrated by our massive shaft. You know she'd never be able to satisfy him afterward.
>>
>>3481890

Eventually the shield came down as the duration finally came to an end. Your health was depleted by one fourth....nay perhaps even half. This is a good learning experience from you. As you start to realize that the bloodlust you were feeling was trading defense for pure offensive power. All good as you feel it deep inside you. The spear of lust was almost complete...it just needed only one more thing. You reflect upon his while on the ground.

" It's time for you to give up. I think even you have to admit that you seen better days.You can't beat me with pure raw power."

Upon saying that you start to hear countless nobles speaking over the underhanded tactics that Nickolas was using. But you didn't care. This was fun...this was truly fun. Being closer and closer to the climax was making it all the more exciting. You wanted more...you NEED more. You WIILL get more! The same wicked smile started to creep on your face.

"..Well if the crowd considers me as a filthy cheater. Then I'll just play the role of the villain and claim my victory!"

Before Nickolas can throw his next attack, you timed your spear forest for that precise moment. Both you and him were going to destroy each other. That's exactly how it should be ! To experience pain and to give pain simultaneously...that what it means to truly be alive! It was to be the greatest of highs for someone as filled with as much blood lust as yourself. However...

con
>>
>>3481917
Things are gonna get interesting if we catch her interfering.
I wanna yell out that if she wants to interfere with the fight then she needs to get down here and join in it.
>>
>>3481928
Did I just hear a SAIKOU NO HIGH?
>>
>>3481928

A powerful blast of wind disrupted both the Shield Reflection skill and your Spear Forest Skill. Nickolas has the misfortune of being knocked back onto the ground. As he gets up to see what just happens, his eyes catch something hiding in the distance. What he saw was about to drive him completely mad with hellish fury. Most of the nobles couldn't see this and you on the other hand while able to make out their face in the shadows are too consumed with bloodlust to care. Although she was really smoking hot and it was doing it for you. But boners will have to be put aside as you wanted that climatic victory. You will not lose, you cannot lose...IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO LOSE. You chant this repetitively into your head as you think back to Melody. It keep going over and over and over and over again.

The Lightning spear turns crimson as you move in directly to attack. >>3481850 is what you shout as the electric current of Lightning Spear was making it hard for Nick to properly dodge. Soon enough he found himself stunned as his magic aura cannot keep up in time to stop this.

"Shi-"

Before Nick could finish that, you completely penetrate him with a fully powered up Lightning Spear. The spear roars violently as it shoots a powerful beam of crimson light, completely different from the usual blue aura. The blast goes throughout the arena, quite possibly punching several holes through the walls to parts unknown. The people watching were safe but as for Nick...he took most of the brunt of the attack as he falls to his knees.

Meanwhile you start to laugh as you stare into the sky. Chanting your victory as you got the climax that you wanted. The Spear of Lust was now complete and ready to be used. With this power you were unstoppable. No one can touch you, nobody can oppose you. Not even Lucien would be enough to handle you as you are now. ...The Strongest one of the four cardinal Heroes!

>How do you proceed?

>Continue resisting
>Fully embrace the spear of lust
>Something else
>>
>>3481947

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BghWmympeFk battle music for the confrontation. Also it goes without saying that you have mixed intentions when thinking abou Melody. You truly do want to save and protect her, but the lust spear also makes you want to make her and all the girls in your party yours in time. It's just at it's strongest so far with Melody.
>>
>>3481937

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rF4MnKQxTWo yes you did.
>>
>>3481947
>Too powerful. Where's the challenge in using the spear if they can't even put up a fight? Lock it up until those bastards learn some TRUE power.
>>
>>3481947
>Fully embrace the spear of lust
The greatest power of the legendary weapon is ours! To reject it would be nothing short of absurd!
But actually, I'm thinking that most mythological heroes have this kind of character flaw. Rage of Achilles is a classic. So, let's go with it and make the character more fun.
>>
>>3481947
>Nick is beaten. There's no point in unleashing any more of the spear's power upon him.
>If lustful spear release is the goal, it should be saved for someone more... appropriate... than a man.

>>3481962
Cu Chulainn went into battle rages more than once.
>>
>>3481962
>>3481988
Cu Chulainn also had a LOT of sex. He even ended up raping Scathach's rival at spearpoint. A spear of lust like this is probably the best way we could carry on the legacy of Irish heroes.
>>
>>3481962
Depends on the cultural preference.
Achilles was actually one of the odd ones out for having wrath/rage (along with Hercules) in greek myth since it's usually arrogance that does them in.

>>
>>3482001
>>3481988
Sounds like we're on the same page about taking on the spear of lust as a character aspect, then. Great!
>>
What the actual fuck you guys?

Okay, I can kinda SORTA see why, but if you guys are so set on battle rages why aren't you guys sticking around for actual fighting votes?
>>
>>3482021
My vote hasn't changed. I don't agree with fully embracing it right here and now, but I quite like the fact that it's the weapon at our disposal. I'll be more willing to embrace it in other circumstances, like when we're not in front of everyone and putting the life of Nick at risk.
>>
>>3482038
But I am...?
Also, sorry for having other things in life that I need to do, I guess?
>>
>>3481947
>Fully embrace the spear of lust
See if we can get Myne alone after the duel. She helped awaken it, after all.
>>
>>3481960
>>3481988

This was enough for now. You have won and prove that the spear is mightier than the shield. This high was so great that you even started to laugh wildly while thrusting your spear into the air. The people chanting over your victory. It seems the Mad Spear Hero's legend was finally starting to kick itself to high gear. There would be no doubt of it now. You were strong, you knew it to be true.

The Spear of Lust was sedated for now. There was no point to show off your true power. Not when you already won. That...and something more appropriate should be used for such a powerful release. You continue to enjoy the chants and praise from everyone around you, zoning out a bit to whatever was around. That is until you felt a slap on the face.

"...just the hell are you doing...you think you can be a real hero like this...You...Y-YOU DUMBASS!!!"

A kick directly to the nuts seems to work far more efficient then a mere slap, although the slap does still hurt. It seem like as you start to come together, it was Raphtalia who slapped you and Elena was the one who kicked you in your family jewels. That really did the trick of knocking you out of your lustful bloodrage.

"..I didn't ask for this...I didn't ask to be saved..especially to a disgraceful way like this!."

Raphtalia was on the verge of tears. She just saw the man who protected and care for her almost get brutalized by the Spear hero of all people. She keeps an angry face through the tears as she explains that she was never used unfairly by Master Nick. Although he has deep trust issues and was willing to use a slave, he never abused or abandoned her. He treated her, care for her, watched out for, helped her through the pain. You start to realize that he did exactly the same what you did for Rifana. You even start to remember her words from long ago.

"...you dummy....I'll keep you safe...after all...I'm your hammer. Whenever you are damaged or lose your way, I'll be there to mend you of all of your doubt and pain. And to keep your noble soul on the straight path...like the spear of the heavens that we all believe in. I'll follow you to the ends of the earth and beyond."

Your mind finally register these things upon looking directly at Raphtalia while Elena broke down and hug you from behind.

How do you respond

>Show regret and apologize
>Bitch Slap the hoes
>Keep slient
>Something else
>>
>>3482056
>Show regret and apologize
Mild regret, with some chastisement.
"Heh heh... I suppose I lost my senses for a time there. Thank you, Rifana." Pull the girl close in an embrace. "As for you, Elena, I'll thank you to keep your feet well away from there in the future."
>>
>>3482038
I was trying to use lust's own logic against it and do the whole hero holding back for a proper challenge thing as a method to contain the spear for now. (if you thought I was one of them) I'm still going with it being a defense mechanism since as far as I could tell we were actually LEARNING after how badly our tank got messed up tanking without our healer present.
At this point I'm just happy that the QM isn't letting the spear have us publicly rape Mynne in a display of dominance to piss off the King and get a nice challenge out of taking on the whole castle.
>>3482056

>Whisper, "Elena, what the hell just happened to me?"
Nick can probably explain the extremely suspicious whisper to instantly hostile mode we went into when talking to Raph later. He'd have to be uncommonly dense to not notice we were halfway to friendly earlier and suddenly shifted gears.
>>
>>3482077
Supporting

>>3482070
Rifana isn't here. That's Raphtalia.
>>
>>3482077

Got to keep some semblance of control and sense. Naofumi on the other hand could've burnt the entire castle to bits if Raph didn't save him.


Now if this was Rance Quest however....It's a joke
>>
>>3482085
We only got slapped by Nick's girl and our own party member kicked us in the nuts? Oh man is that disappointing. We need to have a serious talk with Elena about what is and isn't an acceptable way to try and de-frenzy someone.
>>
>>3482056
Changing my vote to
>Keep silent
>>
>>3482056
>Something else
Ignore the people in the arena. Focus on the stands, looking for Myne. Try to get her alone and interrogate her about what she said before the duel.
>>
>>3482088
In Elena's defense, her method proved exceptionally effective and I can't think of many other ways the girls in our party could snap us out of a lust frenzy. Affection probably isn't going to help much in that regard.
>>
Rolled 1 (1d4)

>>3482070
>>3482077
>>3482093
>>3482112
>>
>>3482128

Actually nevermind, forgot someone supported this.

>>3482077

So writing accordingly.


>>3482124

Someone gets it.
>>
>>3482112
She confirmed that it's a slave seal. Not the best idea when as far as we can tell from our perspective she just randomly mind controlled us into a blood rage.

I'm still a little biased towards determining the level cap of her seal and secretly powerleveling past said cap while she's asleep at the right moment.

>>3482124
Cold showers perhaps, but that's not in Elena's character.
>>
>>3482140
>She confirmed that it's a slave seal.
That so? I thought we knew there was some crest on Mel's tongue, but not definitely that it was slavery. Could be instadeath under certain conditions.
I really just want more dialogue with Myne; most interesting character so far.
>>
>>3482159
I suspected it was similar to one just by the way it was described, and then mynne started bragging about how she can modify slave seals in fun ways like on Melody.
>>
>>3482178
>>3482159
Not seeing it in the passage it bought it was. Maybe I’m hallucinating from it being too late at night?
Goodnight everyone!
>>
>>3482077
>>3482085

You completely come to your senses thanks to remembering Rifana's words. You still haven't fully put together what has happened. But deep down you know one thing was certain. You done fucked up big time. In retrospect, you are probably glad that Rifana wasn't here to see you did what you did. That would undoubtedly made things a whole lot worse.

Speaking of fucking up, you start to see Myne come directly to the field. As expected, Myne was taking complete advantage of the situation. She congratulated on your victory...that is until Raphtalia called her out on her bull. She went as far as to say someone directly interfered with the fight and her tanuki sense could pick it up. Myne naturally deflects this by saying that Raphtalia was clearly delusional. But you get the feeling she downright wanted to call her a lying Demi-human piece of shit. But that would be ridiculous and nobody be taking her seriously.

>>3482077

"...You lost control the moment that bitch said something in your ear. I couldn't make it out since I was staring from afar. But I know for a fact it was something not good. Your status and everything look...unreal. Like you were no longer you. You were only a lunatic hothead who goes over the top and beyond to save the day. But you never do something like this. ...I generally saw you want to help people above all else. I get frustrated and tired at times from your shenanigans...but when it came to helping others you never compromise. You never abandon anyone....that's why....I lo-I....I mean I admire you immensely. So....don't ever do something that stupid again. I don't want to lose you!"

It was impressive that Elena manage to say all that while whispering. Honestly it was both touching yet amusing just how Irish like Elena was. Or maybe it was scottish, she looks more scottish than irish. Probably hits like a mad scottish woman too, you certainly got the bruises to show. Still, you listen to Raph and co talk while apologizing to both Raph and Elena.

con
>>
>>3482208


"You lost this one Flaithrí. Someone or something interfered with your fight. Knocking Nick in the process and disrupting his tactic. Had it went off...you might have been able to damage him greatly and maybe still won..but you would've been destroyed by your own attack regardless."

Riku steps in to be basically the unofficial reefer between you and Nick, but who was going to question the call of a hero. Not even Myne was that foolish that she could get away with that. Riku turns his attention to you before looking back at the King.

"Technically I'd call it a draw, perhaps even the match is null and void if we're going by the rules. While Sir Nick did use monsters, they're still technically apart of him as nobody really did any body checks when he got in. And to be fair, it should have been obvious given how shady Sir Nick is. That said, I didn't step my foot down since it balance out the fact that Nick can't use offense and the levels were too high. It was a one sided farce...and the people wouldn't want to be entertained by such means. We don't know who did it but interference has been done. This match is over but it is for the king to decide."

Once again the people started to side with Lucien. You get the feeling that they didn't speak up cause they didn't want to get involved and was too into the battle to really care. But Lucien erased those doubts and made them want to side with him like this was some political ploy.

King Aultcray looks to the people and then the heroes before looking directly at Nick.

"I'm a man of my word. So I'm going to have to call this inclusive. Yet we know if this was a real battlefield, then Nickolas would be dead for being careless. I will upheld to the conditions set to the match. I wish you all safe travels back home."

With that the King starts to leave as does the rest of the crowd. Myne on the other hand just flicks her hair and looks down on Nick.

"Regardless of the outcome...I'm sure this stunt will damage your ego further. Try to be more cooperative in the future and know your place....shield hero."

With that she walks off to accompany Lord Lucien as they walk off into the distance. Riku on the other hand just looks at you.

"If nothing else...I got to see both of your strengths. But...you two lost your cools and made mistakes in this fight. It's something that I won't do in the future. So get stronger...get much stronger then this. The waves will only get worse...and I have a feeling there's something they're not telling us about these weapons. So don't lose until this is over. If one of us dies...we all go. So don't be selfish....or reckless."

Now it was Riku's turn to disappear, but he once again used his portal sword rather than walk normally. That just leaves you, Elena and Nick's group.
>>
>>3482229

What do you do ?

>Leave and head home
>Apologize until you can't no more and talk to Nick
>Give them some space and wait until it was safe to talk
>Something else
>>
>>3482230
>Leave and head home
>>
>>3482229

Through all of this Pope Gregory was watching the fight, keeping track of everything. When it ended he started to whisper to some of his staff. You couldn't hear him through everything else, but it seem like there was something strange here.

filling the blanks here
>>
>>3482230
To the Nickolas and Raphtalia
"Apologies for that, fellows. I became something that I absolutely despised; a knob-head. I hope you'll forgive me for this act. Here, have this as an act of apology." Give him one of our rarest items in our inventory. "Let's go, Elena and Vivian. The others are waiting for us at home."
>>
>>3482301
For the record, I'll support just about anything else to make sure we don't do this.
>>
>>3482230
>Leave and head home
>I need a heavy drink
>>
>>3482230
Supporting >>3482435
>>
>>3482230
Apologize to both of them and mention that you felt something making you do this. Like a force compelling you to fight and win.
>>
>>3482230
Since we couldn't do anything else
>Sorry Nick Boyo, but you've got to realize something. That person has it out for more people than just you.

I honestly would have thought seeing someone fuck up our match we would have gone crazy and attacked them. I mean, we are bloodlusted and filled with chiverly.
>>
>>3482573
I'd like to argue against needing to explain that after what just happened in front of his face, but he is a bit of a dumbass when it comes to his persecution complex as evidenced by him acting like a jerk.

Mynne got lucky and wasn't caught.

We really need to get out of the country asap. The problem is communicating with the party without being heard by Melody's former fellow workers as there's a bunch to be paranoid about. I suspect the smartphone might have something useful in the messaging system if it doesn't turn out to actually be able to connect back to earth as an extreme longshot. Might be time to play with everything

I'm reading a random analysis of Ovid's Medea and it is absolutely fascinating how many yandere flags Jason completely ignored in order to take advantage of her.
It makes me want to reread a proper version of the tale since I don't think i've read about the argonauts since I was in middle school.
It's also important to note that the death of her children was an accident and a later poet decided to make it on purpose to spice things up.
>>
>>3482230
>Leave and head home
Fuck apologizing. We had a decent duel, diminished by Myne. At least end the scene with dignity.
>>
>>3482230
>Leave and head home
We've caused enough chaos for one day. Time to go get chewed out.
>>
>>3481645
>>3482186
Nvm. Found it. It’s probably overthinking here, but the implication is that she personally knows all the sorts of ways that slave seals can be modified and was taunting us with that.
>>3482846
I can support this one.
Kind of wanted to take some food with us but we’ll live.

I’m kinda surprised we don’t dislike the slave dealer that much considering that Fredrick Douglas is famous in Ireland and his story was used as inspiration for resistance with murals of him dotting the land.
>>
>>3482435
>>3482236
>>3482846
>>3482887
>>3482897

It was for the best that you leave Nick and Raphtalia alone for a while. Even if something was amidst and it wasn't completely your fault, that still doesn't change the fact that you nearly destroyed Nick under the influence of the newly formed Spear of Lust. Nick wasn't dumb but he wasn't as forgiving to let that slide, especially in his current pain and suffering. You just had to trust in Raphtalia to fix him, just like the memories and words of Rifana managed to snap you out of your delusion. So you start to slowly rise with Elena and begin to head home as Vivian was waiting outside the gate for you.

As you make it back to the inn that you are staying, you decide to quickly go to your room and drink until you can't drink no more. There was silence in the room. You couldn't exactly bring yourself to meet with the rest of the party and Elena knew exactly why. So she stopped the others from seeing you while you asked Andros if he can sleep alone for the night. He agreed and you were left alone to just drown this entire experience away. You drink yourself to slumber.

As you sleep you start to have quite the horrible nightmare. You were standing behind a large gate that served as the entrance to a massive castle wall, like the great wall of china. Surrounds by countless soldiers while on the other side was Nick surrounded by his comrades. You were holding the spear of lust in your hands, while he was using a strange black shield. Both you and Nick were driven to fight one another. At this point you were fully consumed by the spear as blacken mana started to flow through you. As for Nick he was struggling to not lose control throughout the fight but you take full advantage of that as you ultimately finish the fight by going to stab him. Someone tries to stop the crossfire of this long and bloody battle that took countless casualties. Unfortunately, you ended up stabbing them through the heart with the spear of lust that was meant for Nick.

You couldn't tell who jumped in front of nick, but you know it was someone important to you as the blood splashes across your face. Afterwards you started to get visions of your party members. One by one falling to the power of the spear of lust as a voice starts to whisper into your ear. You couldn't make it out but it was clearly driving you to battle. The last thing you see before you wake up was you collectively watching the events of the ball and the duel from an outsider point of view. The only difference was that you saw Raphtalia dying from your spear of lust when she tries to save nick.

You wake up in a cold sweat, tears strangely flowing out of your eyes.

con
>>
>>3482957

Forgot to mention this bit.

Another part of the dream was standing on top of a boat. You looking up at what appears to be a woman with raven black hair and pale white skin. Her piercing red eyes look at you through her hime-cut as she was holding something. You couldn't make it out, but you felt tremendous power coming from her as she stood on the lookout pole.Around you all of your comrades were unconscious and even the other heroes were defeated. The spear of lust fully activated as you jump upwards and she jumps downwards for a clash that shakes the very heavens themselves.
>>
>>3482957

By the time you would wake up it was already morning. There was cold sweat coming from your body, you were shaking from the experience. You have a hard trouble remembering it all but you do know one thing was for certain...you remember exactly what you did at castle. And there was a feeling of dread that was going through your body. Was all of the other events you saw just mere hallucinations or was there something more to it then that.

Either way it was morning and you needed to get up and prepare yourself to meet with the King to receive your boom from the waves and fulfill your part of the deal. You might have the satisfaction knowing that you were indeed stronger than Nick and had an enjoyable fight despite it all. But it doesn't change the fact you paid quite the price for it.

What do you do?

>Go to the castle alone
>Confront your party
>Go to the market
>Find the Slave Merchant/Trader
>Something else
>>
>>3482984

Gae Bolg is what the spear of lust looks like although a bit more dark and marked with demonic markings.
>>
>>3482984
Confront your party
>>
>>3482984
Let's talk to the party. They should probably be informed of what went down yesterday.
>>
>>3482984
:Ask Rifa what the judgement she gave on the shield hero was and delight in whatever details about Myne’s reaction was when Rifa pointed out that she was found by spear hero half dead Eine the royal dungeons, so Ralph is safer near the spear hero as is slave than anywhere else in Melromarc without it.
:Explain the current situation that we have figured out to the party. Preferably after teleporting to a different town.
:Ask Vivian to do an examination of Melody and write down notes while Melody also tries to explain what she can say/do without causing death. If it sounds like a slave seal we have to commission the slave merchant to tell us his findings and maybe smuggle Melody to him without her having access to her own senses. Eg blindfold her or have a mask on in the off chance that she was banned from going to him because he’s capable of removing it. We can pretend we’re taking her to an animal merchant for a seeing eye dog of sorts.

>(assuming that there isn’t some sort of mass teleport defense system due to the rarity of teleports) Ask Vivian if she can bring back something cool from Faubley like an anthology of hero stories (since we should have heard by now that it’s a land founded by heroes) using teleport stones and whisper something like “bring back sand from the cathedral so that we can escape the country if we have to,”and “now blush like I told you something naughty Incase someone’s watching.”

There probably other prep or options but I’ll leave it to you guys since it’s time to get ready for work.
>>
>>3482984
>Confront your party
>I literally don't know what's happening to me and I don't trust this spear.
>Melody, is there some uncurse mojo we can use? Holy water? Holy spears? Therapy?
do we need a therapy couch spear
>>
>>3483074
Gah mistypes everywhere and no time to edit. Ralph is safer near shield hero is what I hope is the most obvious one that will be corrected.
>>
>>3483074
Given the fact that part of the reason we need to see the king is to fulfill the conditions set forth before the duel, I'm pretty sure none of the conditions have been fulfilled yet. Rifa hasn't given any sort of judgement.

Does Vivian actually know anything about slave crests? It might be worthwhile to stop by the slave merchant, though - he'll be willing to keep his mouth shut for a bit of coin. And it's not like Myne isn't aware that we know about Melody. We don't have much of a reason to believe she's banned from seeing the slave merchant specifically. Melody says she'll die if the crest is tampered with, so as long as the merchant only takes a look at the crest rather than tries to fuck with it she should be fine.

I don't think it's worth having Vivian go to Faubley considering the amount of time it will take for her to go to a foreign country. She won't be able to train or fight with us in that time.
>>
>>3483080
>We go on a quest for a Dr. Phil Spear
>Everytime we go for a thrust attack the spear calls out with the phrase "This is going to be a changing day in your life." with Dr. Phil's exact tone of voice.
I've seen weirder than that so let's go crazy with it.
>>
>>3483122
She also said she was banned from seeing a guy or else she would die. If the slave trader can remove the seal then logically he’s high on the list of males that might trigger it. Ergo him removing it requires melody to not know who is doing anything.
>>
>>3483134
>>3483080
>>3483073
>>3483059

You decide it would be best before you go to the King to check up on your party. After all you wanted to see precisely what they had to say about the entire course of events. Part of the deal was that your party was going to judge the shield hero accordingly. That included Rifana who was a demi-human so a demi-human would be far more fairer than leaving it to the corrupted noble lineage. As you make it to the door, you start to hear some strange sounds coming from within. It sound like there was a lot of running around going on.

" Come on now...we just got you into those things!"[/green Rifana said

"..I knew we should've bribed Blake with candy..." Vivian said

"Blake don't wanna!" Blake said

"Get back here Blake! You're not going to be leaving this place like that!" Elena said

"...I was not ready for today." Melody said

" I don't think anyone was Melody..." Andros said

"...ehehehe...:"
Aden said

From you can gather it sound like people were talking about Blake for some reason. But as you open the door, you would bump directly into what appears to be a flying red haired child no less than 10-12 as they were....well you didn't want to finish that thought. That said, they hit like a truck as you brush deeply against the wall before sliding off to the ground.

"Blake just look at what you done! We're going to be leaving soon and we don't want to-"

Before Elena could finish, she saw Blake who was conveniently covered was in your presence as you try to pick yourself up from the sudden tackle. The rest of the game pop in through the door to look at the scene as the mysterious child starts to hug you.

"Master~ Blake finally found you. Big Sis Elena is being mean! Saying Blake can't go outside without wearing clothing!"

You were really not ready for today.

How do you handle this situation before getting back to the task at hand ?

>Take Elena's side
>Take Blake's Side
>Ignore it and run
>Change the subject
>Something else
>>
>>3483221
>>
File: 9.png (703 KB, 950x1364)
703 KB
703 KB PNG
>>3483269

and here is what blake is based off on
>>
File: 7.png (840 KB, 869x1242)
840 KB
840 KB PNG
>>3483279
>>
>>3483221
>Take Elena's side
"Unfortunately, Blake, there isn't much of a choice. If you don't put clothes on when you go outside, you'll end up in a situation far worse than what Elena is putting you though, and there's nothing we can do about it."
>>
>>3483221
>Take Elena's side
"If you put on clothes, I will make you some of my
special spicy ice cream. Laced with chili!"
>>
>>3483221
>Take Elena's side
No officer, I am not in fact parading a naked child around the town square. I am however trying to buy clothes for said child.
>>
>>3483292
>>3483307
>>3483323

>>3483307
>>3483292

Through common sense and bribing, you manage to get Blake to agree to wearing clothing. Seems to get to a dragon's heart is through their stomach. As Blake was getting dressed up, you naturally asked Elena precisely what was going on since you didn't have a chance to be really surprised about Blake's transformation.

"Remember when I said purebreed dragons are exceptionally rare. That's due to the fact that dragons are highly compatible with anything. Those dragons are able to do so through an innate ability called form change. It allows them to mimic and alter their form of the respective species or race they want to copy. It's also how they manage to escape from being hunted as killing a dragon is a true test of strength since they're the highest of the hierarchy for beasts and animals. This kind of barbarism nearly cost the extinction of pure dragons, so in order to survive they adapted and learned how to breed with other species to keep the dragon blood alive in some form or another. But to actually see one, even a baby dragon is very high rarity in itself.

"So that means Blake is a genius after all~ Blake always knew Blake was special. Blake is the strongest after all~"

Seems like Blake could pick up on your conversation quite well. Not surprising considering that Blake is a dragon and dragons have exceptional senses. You're also not sure if it was cute, worthy of praise/pride or worrisome to see Blake playfully moving their fist in a fistcup manner. Seem like you and Elena imprinted on Blake the most for better or worse.

>>3483080
>>3483074
>>3483073

You feel like you're on Dr. Phill as you confront the party about what has happened yesterday. They give you a quick rundown to exactly what has happened as the battle between you and Nick have been broadcasted. You question how such a thing was possible but then Vivian once again pointed out crystal orbs. You really need to get one and try and engineer it into a streaming service at this rate.

Anyway, you explain the terms that you set up in case the entire thing was a trap. This does take away the tension but you seal the deal with a deep apology for how you acted. You haven't fully grasps the trigger, but you tell them that you're hesitant to use the black and red spear in your arsenal. It held exceptional power but it seems to come with quite the cost as you ask Melody about how to remove curses.

"...You would have to go to the church to get some holy water in order to purify yourself of the aliment. Therapy will also work to mend your mind and soul of the effects. But...if we're talking about the highest form of holy water you can get...it would have to be at the Church of the Three heroes..."

Melody laments about saying this. She momentary looks away from you before slowly gripping her hands.


con
>>
>>3483358


"..you done so much for me...and even now I'm only ending up being a burden to you. ...So...I'm going to go to the church. I'm going to request to get holy water in order to cure you of this. ...Honestly I'm scared to go there. But...I feel like if I don't try and help you in your time of need...then I won't be able to continue traveling with you..."

This was bold of Melody to say as she was essentially excommunicated. However, she is working for the Spear Hero so the church might be lenient and see this as a "redemption" for her. Still, you feel like you don't want Melody to go into the lion's den. That's when Andros appears behind you and place his hand on your shoulder.

"I'll go with her to keep her safe. We shouldn't expose our full plan here until we're gone from castle town, so let's keep the discussions to a minimum okay? "

You find comfort in your bro Andros looking out for Melody. Still you ask Vivian as well to go with them so she can do some examination on Melody as well as serve as additional firepower.

"Got it. If anyone tries to mess with Melody, I'll blow them to bits." Vivian gives a v sign upon saying that.

You want to ask her about mass teleportation system as well as going to Faubley to get some stuff for them. But like Andros say, that was for later when you weren't around watchful eyes.

With that said, who do you take to the Castle

>Elena
>Rifana
>Aden
>Blake
>Go it alone
>>
>>3483397
Elena and Rifana
>>
>>3483397
Probably not Rifana.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3483545
>>3483557
>>
>>3483557

You decide to naturally take Elena with you. Rifana suggest that she stays and look after Aden. She was still recovering from the second wave and it was probably for the best to not get her involved in political stuff. Still, your going to get her work acknowledged one way or another.

As you and Elena prepare to go, Blake decides to follow after you. At first you try to tell Blake that they can't come since they're going to the castle. Unfortunately Blake throws a tantrum since they got into the clothing and everything. Elena looks to you before sighing, thinking it was ultimately better to just put up with it and take them along. You bribe Blake to be on their best behavior and not to transform in front of the castle men which Blake agrees.

So after one costume change and fitting room later after paying a stop to the local tailor. The three of you were presentable for the trip to the castle. Blake was just walking up the stairway, showing perfect balance while looking just adorable. You and Elena stay behind Blake as you travel through the castle. Eventually you make it to the place, where each of the other heroes were waiting for you.

"Excellent, everyone is now here. We can get started on the distribution of the rewards for the rewards for the wave and discuss the efforts of the reconstruction plans while planning for the next meeting date for the next wave."

>What do you choose to start with first ?

>The distribution
> The reconstruction plan
> The next Tactical Meeting for the wave
> Interrupt to say your opinion on x
> Something else

Writing your dialogue and any plans you have.. Also option but you can choose Blake's default attire if you so wish
>>
>>3483687
Don't even other saying anything. Once Melody is fixed up, we are blowing this joint.
>>
>>3483687
>The distribution
Gotta get paid.
>>
>>3483687
>Tell Elena same duty as at the party.
>Keep the status window open for ourself too.
>ask riku if he knows how to hack our smartphone or code in some new apps during pre or after meeting small talk.(I wanna see if Riku can get us hooked into the crystal ball “network.” Maybe even let us review that video to see who interfered.) why is autocorrect changing crystal to fetal?
>Report that some sort of sub boss had manifested at a nearby town during the previous wave. If a hero has to handle it instead of the standard pincher movement they should not be penalized since there might be occasions where the sub boss is needed to fulfill requirements to beat the main boss such as immunities to attacks other than what the sub boss unlocks.

>Mostly stay quiet other than that and observe everything. We wanna get to the bottom of this.
>>
>>3484012
>>3483908
>>3483829

You decide to whisper to Elena exactly what you told her to do at the party. Meanwhile Blake stood behind them and keep the promise between you and them. Thus, leaving you directly the means to observe and listen to the King's words.

"Let us begin with the distrusting of wealth. We shale start with Lord Lucien. For aiding in the second wave's plans and ensuring that the pincer attack proceeded as schedule you shall be rewarded with three thousand and eight hundred silvers."

"I thank you for your generosity your majesty." Lucien accepts the treasure, bowing to the King.

"Next is Sir Riku. For your help in eliminating the majority of the monsters and keeping the threat continue to a minimum, you shall also be rewarded the same amount as Lucien."

"I'm truly grateful your token of appreciation your majesty." Riku accepts the treasure chest, doing a more traditional japanese bow than the military one that Lucien did.

"Next is Sir Flaithrí. For keeping the main threat of the Chimera at bay and delivering the final blow, you shall be awarded four thousand silvers for your hard work. And additional fees for the recovery of your party as they defended the main town."

You decide to take the money, showing respect to the king. Seems like he acknowledges your team's efforts, especially that of Aden. His attention soon turns to Nickolas as he was the last one.

"For doing the bare minimum and protecting the people. As well as going along with the duel without causing a ruckus. I shall reward you one thousand silvers. However, due to the agreement of the duel between you and Sir Flaithrí, the total amount of both your funding will be combined and split accordingly. In addition, Sir Flaithrí will be your handler. Try to continue doing your job and not bring Sir Falaithri down with you with any misdeeds. "

"..Fine...I'll accept your highness."

Nickolas clearly wanted to lash out from the order as he didn't need to be wrapped in some charity case. The king was keeping to his word but there was still some animosity between the two of them. It was only Raphtilia that kept Nick from acting and tempering his rage. The King on the other hand accepted the comment about not wasting any more time from the tanuki demi-human. It was his own punishment for not beefing security further to avoiding the event that allow things to end in a draw.

"I'll leave my handler to fill me in on the tactics and the meetings so you don't have to deal with me anymore than you have to. Cause it goes the same for me."

con
>>
>>3484147

"That's acceptable to me." The King spoke, keeping eye contact with Nick directly.

With that Nickolas and Raphtilia left the courtroom while you are left to listen to the rest of the meeting. Many were left to whisper about the foul mouth shield hero but you chose to ignore it like Lucien and Riku are doing. Your attention was fully at the meeting.

In summation, you learn that the next meeting was in two and a half weeks. You were each giving a special teleportation crystal to be able to teleport to the place of the next meeting once it becomes active.

Although, you brought to attention that if necessary, the heroes should be allowed to tackle the sub-bosses and not be penalized for it. You justify this by mentioning that as the waves get stronger, there could be specific requirements needed to fulfill before the main boss would show up/be weaken for defeat. The king accept this and surprisingly Lucien didn't give you any lip.

The reconstruction talk goes as exactly what you expected and you didn't want to push your luck any further than you already have by arguing. You can trust the king to keep to his word and there was enough fairness to be go around. If worst comes to worst, you can personally fix up and strengthen the villages yourself.

Once the meeting was over you try to set up a meeting with Riku elsewhere about the crystal ball. He just gives you a location at a local in and tell you to go there two weeks from now since he's busy. He'll still keep your idea in mind during that time.

With that out of the way you proceed to leave through the stairs.

"...You're becoming quite active...Sir Flaithrí...or as you say."

Standing to the side of you...was the Queen herself!

How do you react?

>Talk with her
>Ignore her
> Something else
>>
>>3484168
>It's nice to see you exist your highness, I believe most of the heroes guessed the King to be a widower from your lack of presence and did not wish to broach the subject.
>As for being active, I have to make up for lost time although some things must be done in moderation before I become synonymous with misspent youth. If i were able to come home now, my mother would kill me for having several children in tow before my studies are finished and career is secure.
>>
>>3484168
> "Your highness! It's a pleasure to meet you. It seems you already know me, though I somehow feel I'm acting improperly without the chance to introduce myself. Flaithrí Ó Ruairc, at your service."
>>
>>3484168
Supporting >>3484423
How do we know she's the queen, by the way, and not just some random noblewoman? Are there portraits of her around, or is there something else to enlighten us?
>>
>>3484457
That IS interesting.
>>
>>3484457
We're a historian in training, we might not be an archeologist, but we know their tricks like being able to look at old minted currency to see the profile picture,decorative vases, and all sorts of old hints that would still be around even if the King went out to erase the traces of her.
That's the excuse I thought up when I was wondering the same thing.
Alternatively we know it due to our vision and as such recognize her with decent enough familiarity despite our memory of the chain of events being hazy.
>>
File: Mirelia_Anime.png (872 KB, 810x1080)
872 KB
872 KB PNG
The Queen Mirellia Q Melromarc
>>
File: D1AkBNwUcAEuQOW.jpg (102 KB, 1200x751)
102 KB
102 KB JPG
>>3484489

The second princess Melty
>>
>>3484168
>"How in the world are you here?"

She's not suppose to be here. This is likely either a hologram or a crook.
>>
>>3484495

The first Princess Malty S.
>>
>>3484495
Oh, we need to meet her ASAP. That's just adorable.
>>
File: 0 tk5u8Rz0v6i9USui.png (285 KB, 780x426)
285 KB
285 KB PNG
>>3484489

ant lastly the King himself.

>>3484457

There's portraits of the royal family around. It's not hard to see, unless you're the shield hero that is
>>
>>3484500
It could well be one of the shadows. That said, there's no reason to act suspicious yet. It's better to simply act like nothing is wrong for now.
>>
I feel like our major in college should come up at some point since she might have some journals, but I'm not sure.


>>3484489
>>3484479
>>3484471
>>3484457

Looks like Myne too, although that could have lead us to assuming an auntie since she's supposed to be deposed due to a coup which would normally mean her actions would be restricted enough to not be paying us visits without severe manipulation.
>>3484500
True true. We know about Melody's abilities. Not gonna be revealing any of our hands to somebody that's supposed to be deposed.
>>3484507
She's like Kat from Gunnerkrigg. She has a lewd bird fetish.
>>
>>3484544
>She has a lewd bird fetish.
Frankly, I have no idea what this means. Not familiar with Gunnerkrigg, either; sorry.
>>
>>3484572
She's into the Big Bird Clacoa.
>>
>>3484580
Cloaca*
>>
>>3484587
And the spoilers don't work, of course.
>>
>>3484580
Boy, this series really does have all the royalty as maniacs, huh?
>>
>>3484423
>>3484457
>>3484471

"It is a pleasure to meet you Sir Flaithrí Ó Ruairc. The name is Mirellia Q Melromarc. And yes....I know quite a lot about you. Perhaps more than you would ever thing to consider Sir Flaithri?"

The queen smiled, walking towards you and your party. There was something about her that was positively enchanting. From her velvet purple hair to her alluring violet eyes, you can tell for a fact that this was Myne's mother alright if comparing to looks and aura. But unlike Myne it was much more reginal while remaining to be comforting. She beacons you to come follow her so they can talk more privately. Naturally without question you do so as Elena and Blake follow with you. She leads you to a private room that would make any noble positively jealous.

"You don't need to worry. This entire area is protect with magic runes and is naturally sound proof. So no one but us will be able to hear this conversation. I choose you know why I'm exactly saying this?"

You are given quite the cold sweat when you met with the Queen's eyes. She was looking through you like a see-through mirror. She kept her arms folded while walking over to the bookcase. There was tea and countless foods on the table for you and your party to enjoy.

"You already met with Rinora Hawkins...or as she unfortunately calls herself now...as Melody correct?"

A rhetorical question for you get the feeling that she knows that you have. This only worsen the feeling you were getting as she slowly picks up one of the books from the vast library. You catch a glimpse of the book as it seems to be a historian's journal. It has the same symbol as the book you first saw before you got transferred into this world.

"Judging from the looks on your face...it looks like I'm right to assume she explained to you what exactly a shadow is right? If not then I'll give you the explanation. A shadow is someone who works in the darkness. The shadow has nothing tied to itself. No identification of any kind, blended in secrecy so they can never be told apart from one another. They live in the darkness, doing what needs to be done in servitude to the monarchy. A shadow is versatile in what they do. From body guarding, to spying, to assignation...and even information gathering and messaging. There is no end to what the shadows do within the darkness of this country. The shadows originated from the east, remember the country name Q'ten Lo. For if you continue to work with Ms. Rifana...I'm sure you will eventually go to that country."

She starts to open a book while speaking to you. Her back was completely turned as her eyes looked down at the book. Yet at the same time...the dread did not disappear. Almost as if she could see what you were doing even with her back is turn. Or so you theorize...you haven't put it to the test yet.

>Ask her some questions
>Reveal the truth
>Talk about Melody
>Try to Assassinate her
>Something else
>>
>>3484620

Forgot
>Play it cool and pretend ignorance
>>
>>3484603
Nothing compared to Faubley.
They pride themselves on being the descendants of heroes.
The king is a.. snuff enthusiast that abuses healing magic to ensure he can continue raping new holes into his victims while also torturing them.

The Royals from various countries use the threat of being sent/betrothed to him as a behavior deterrent for any female royals acting out, or simply to dispose of anyone they find troubling to have around. Most victims don't last that long and the general description I'd give for the end result is an unidentifiable ball of char grilled tumour.

Even MYNNE is terrified of the guy and he's been trying to get her since she was somewhere around 10(?) years old.
So of course Shield hero accidentally finds a way to make things worse and gives the guy a fetish for being watched/filmed too.
Oh and Faubley is more than willing to use underhanded tactics to maintain their status as the heroes bloodline, so the second you die is the moment your daughterus get kidnapped and raped if you're stupid enough to stay on this planet to live out your life.
>>
>>3484620
>I will consider your words, but I would be an idiot to trust the sudden appearance of a queen that it would not surprise me to learn was dead a few days ago. In any case it sounds better than here.
>Interesting how I'm supposed to get to another country when I heard from Riku that there's some ridiculous idea that none of us are allowed to leave Melomarc.
>>
>>3484650
...I feel like I've read that hentai.
>>
>>3484620
"What can you tell me about Melody? Or rather, Rinora Hawkins?"
"You say working with Rifana will lead to Q'ten Lo. Why is that?"
"I'm sure there's a reason you've sought me out. If you tell me, perhaps I can help you."
>>
>>3484717

Tact's ultimate fate ends like a NTR
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3484715
>>3484733
>>
>>3484733

You start to ask her three questions while keeping your cool. There was no point trying to make a scene since you was at what could be the Queen's ace in the hold or the Queen herself. You needed confirmation and this was probably the only way to do it.

"First off Rinora was my beloved student. Like her I am merely a shadow impersonating as the Queen. Although, you could also say that since I am her shadow, that I am also currently her right hand lady. Of course as a shadow, I operate from the darkness, taking care of all threats to the kingdom while posing as her majesty when she is away. She is currently conversing with the other monarchies of the Seven Kingdoms. To summarize, her work is vital in preventing a war from multiple Kingdoms You have little understanding of the true gravity of the situation. And in time it will be explained. But let's not talk about that. Let's go back to focusing on your three questions shall we?"

She continues to read her book while keeping her back turn from you. The tone in her words was calm and collective. Although she revealed that she was a shadow, it didn't change the fact she was very high on the food chain. She might even be the leader of the shadows that worked for the Queen. She certainly gives off the aura of a big shot. Or maybe that was just how good her skills was at being the doppelganger of the Queen herself.

"In some ways...I saw Rinora as a daughter of mine. She was orphaned and lost in the forest. She was lost, alone, cold, and scared. Yet all she could do was sing. To sing and to dance, that is what allowed her to live. I ultimately picked her up during a mission. The queen had no quires against my adoption, believing that she would be a good fit for Malty. In addition, she allowed Rinora her to exist in the light and not just the darkness. A noble adopting children was uncommon but not completely unheard of. But the royal family directly taking one would unfortunately bring a lot of unwanted attention and controversy. So her history was fabricated so she can stay by Malty's side as her friend. So when the time comes, she would make the choice herself. And she chose to become Malty S. Melrmomac's bodyguard. Thus, she also became my student. "

con
>>
>>3484899

The queen's shadow took a deep breath, turning the next page while Blake was eating the food. Blake was not really listening to the story and Elena had to keep them quiet while you were hook to listen to the story at hand.

"I taught her everything she knows...or well knew. In all of the years running the shadows in direct order of the queen, I never seen someone as so skilled and talented as Rinona. But as I trained her...I also learned that I never met anyone as kind and gentle as her. In essence, I always wonder if me adopting her was truly the right thing to do. Perhaps if she had never met Malty...her fate wouldn't have such a sad melody to it."

You could tell the sorrow in her words. Although she didn't show her face, her body gesture told all you needed to see. She truly did loved Melody with all of her heart.

"The princess was always bit of a troublemaker. Ever since she was a child, she always had a knack for getting into mischief. Though those were just harmless fun. And although she was spoiled, she was to groomed to be a proper princess. There was clash over how she were to be raised by the King and the Queen. And just coming out from the war with Siltvelt, there were still those who want the head of the King. The tactical genius of the war...the one who defeated the Hakuto leader Tai Ran Ga Feon. Although if you compare the King now to he was back then...you would think the decade of peace has made him soft and a shell of the once great strategist. And yet..."

There was a soft pause between the Queen shadow's words as she looks up to the top of the book case. Her finger resting on one of the pages of the book. There was something that she was not telling about the King. Yet the information you gotten alone seem to be quite the informative story. You start thinking about the countless other monarch kings who fought in wars and were said to be geniuses in their own right from your historian and mythical knowledge.

"..I'm sorry. Where was I. Ah yes, Malty. Because she held the king's blood, even in the times of peace she was still endangered. Perhaps it is that fear of losing his family yet again that ultimately made the king lenient with his daughter. A child of such nobility without proper guidance...will naturally crumble apart from the power and responsibility that comes with it. The Queen on the other hand tried to rectify this on many occasions. She tried to teach her discipline, patience, practically refine her as the next Queen. Unfortunately there was no in between the two teachings, and that imbalance may have done more harm than good. She was talented yes. Her being so talented and gifted is precisely why Rinora was such a perfect fit to mimic her. But that talent along with her upbringing made her..unmotivated. I already said she was spoiled, but it gradually worsen over the years as her mother put too much on her while her father was too laxed with the first queen."

con
>>
>>3484970

"They couldn't see eye to eye. But the King had more control over Malty given how busy her mother was. In some ways..I think Malty holds a deep hatred over her mother. Things have gotten better since those days. So her second daughter Melty didn't have to deal with the same conditions that Malty experienced. The lessons with Malty made the queen smarter in how she was to raise her second daughter. That didn't stop the King from loving Melty all the same and the feeling is mutual with Melty. As Melty was young, the future queen Malty was sent off to the land of Faubley with Rinora accompanying her to keep her safe. The queen believed that if Malty was sent to the very best of the best, it would give her something to strive for and put her back on the right track. Unfortunately, it only worsen. When Malty graduated and returned home, she was a completely different person. Almost as if she was no longer the girl who pulled mischievous pranks and always followed her own pace. I do not know precisely what has happened during her stay there to have changed her. And the only person who did...is currently unable to recall about it let alone speak. But I do know this...if Malty wasn't the queen...no...the woman who I respected most's daughter...I would have killed no questions asked."

con
>>
>>3485003

There was a brief period of murderous intent when the queen's shadow said those words. It was like the 9th circle of hell considering how cold the room gotten. She again didn't show her face, but her tone was more than enough to gather that she was not joking. But that moment was as quick as a flickering flame. Existing only for the moment and nothing more as she returns to her previous aura.

"Because she was so gifted, everything came easy to her. But because she was so gifted, she was alone. She saw nobody as her equal...all except Rinona. When she returned home, her mother was positively furious with her actions. She only continued down a path that she did not wish for her daughter. Yet Malty refused to listen. It was almost like she was purposely doing everything her mother didn't want out of spite. So, Melty was favored to be the next queen instead of Malty. But that was just the queen's decision and it wasn't made public. The queen is many things but she's not a fool. If Malty was to directly hear that her claim to the thrown was taken....you would have went down the path of no return. ..However...I know for a fact that she discovered the truth. Seeing what she has done to Rinora is clearly her defiance against her mother's word. She spent countless years gaining political power and public standing as the perfect princess. While using her alternate name Myne Sophia to do what she pleases without directly tarnishing her image. "

con
>>
>>3485046

"Melty is a truly good girl, but if I was to compare potential and tactics....then Malty would win easily due to her experience. For instance, the queen and king played chess for many years...and not once she has won against him despite being a brilliant tactician herself. Malty naturally won against him as the king would go easy on his child. But I suspect subconsciously...never-mind... it's nothing. I'm rambling too much. Anyway, while Malty was building power, Rinona did exactly what I asked and kept tabs on her. That required her to do many things....things that neither I nor the queen are proud of. And things that clearly has damaged and corrupted Rinora as a result. For Malty's rise to power....well I'm sure you can put two and two together Sir Flaithrí. The things Rinora did took her told, and ultimate she left being Malty's shadow but not her friend. She joined the church and practice healing magic in order to save lives...rather than take them. In a way, I think she was trying to atone. Atone for the things she did as Malty's shadow, things she did in order to uncover the truth...and the things she did out of the desire...to save her best friend."

She quickly closes the book before looking don at it and setting it back in place. She would then turn to you, Elena and Blake.

"To get to the point of all of this. I want you to save Rinora. Both from her fate...and from her own suffering and guilt."

How do you respond to this tall order ?

>Accept
>Decline
>Change the subject
>Something else
>>
>>3485069

"Then I ask a question, do you know of her Slave seal? It is the limiting factor that ties me to the First Bitch. If we somehow broke it, I would not stop at reclaiming her mind, but fix what you could not."
>>
>>3485069

toll* Man I'm getting sloppy.

It's not perfect, but that was my attempt at trying to tell Myne's story as it mixes from both the WN and more importantly the LN. As well based on speculations and interpretation to try and make a better characterization while keeping the core value. This is not an attempt to make her sympathetic or a tragic character, though if you like that then that's fine too. It's mainly explaining the method to why she's like this while keeping her actually able to be taken seriously as the central antagonist.
>>
>>3485069
"Then how about a trade?"
"I want information. Melody has a slave crest. A special kind, one that might kill her if the wrong person messes with it. I need to know who can remove it safely and how to convince them to do so."
"You do your part, and I'll do mine. Deal?"
>>
I should mention if anyone was thinking we still should not kill her because of the church, remember that we are the Spear and can easily use their faith against them.
>>
>>3485075
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwI4Owhictw music for this btw
>>
>>3485069
>Ask about the slave seal
>So was the trial of the shield hero false?
>So if she's so dangerous.....why CAN'T you kill her? You've seen what she's done to Melody. She's acted to actively harm both the country by weakening the Heroes and its people like Melody. If you didn't want to kill her, why let her join the hero parties and gain personal power on top of the danger she already represents?
>You've got corrupt nobles raiding and enslaving villages, a puppet king wielding power like a cudgel, a church that discriminates one of the people chosen to save the world...
>and you don't even have the guts to spank a spoiled brat?

"Can I just leave? I'm already lagging behind the other heroes, and playing politics will not help."
>>
>>3485134
We already know Nick's "trial" was a sham. We figured that out the day of when we kicked his ass in the field outside town.
She just explained that she won't kill her because she's the Queen's daughter - and, presumably, the Queen doesn't want her daughter killed.

I'm also not sure how you think we're "lagging behind" the other heroes. Our fight with Nick established us as the most martially powerful of the heroes. Sure, Lucien is gaining more political favor, but so what? And even if we are "lagging behind," it's pretty out of character for Flaithri to consider that grounds for quitting.
>>
>>3485159
That's a testimony, not an investigation. But frankly, I just want them to elaborate on what exactly happened if they can shadow everywhere with spies.

Her actions are actively hindering the end of the world, AND the country's inner politics, AND she acts like a completely different person. She could be possessed or something and the end result is the same: duty over familial "love", get her head checked and stop handing her power.

Chimera fight. Flaithri was monologuing about being weaker. Is it true? I dunno. We really COULD be out there saving lives instead of dealing with something the Queen should be as a Queen AND as a mother.
>>
>>3485172
*helping to end the world
>>
Also, given that her plans are 99.999999% going to involve killing her sister, you have 1 more reason for "not wanting your daughter killed doesn't fly".
>>
>>3485172
Well, she's apparently fine with a Fate Worse Than Death in the source, just not straight out death somehow?
>>
>>3485090
You underestimate how far people are willing to ignore the tenets of their church in order to do something in the name of their church.
The world seems to not have much religious variety that I know of so, gathering literally the rest of the world might be more effective still imo.
>>3485069
>That's a whole bunch of work to ask me to do somethings i'd already try to do if I could.
>Whatever path there is towards what you're asking me is gonna need that seal on her tongue removed. I think the second Malty sees she won't have her toy to play with she'd going to break it like any other spoiled child.

>I suspect it to be a modified slave seal and if Malty really has competence to match her malice one would need to learn the conditions attached before it turns out she was ordered to kill herself if she would fulfill the condition for a solution.
>>3485134
I can agree with some of it but not all of it.
Slave seals kill the slave if the owner dies so there is no exploiting a loophole in the orders given to let them die via misc or accident and running away.
Instead of the line about catching up I'd prefer to continue on about :
>Your people are dying by the droves through purposeful negligence,your entire nation is ready to be set upon by the entire world the instant anyone realizes the constant attempted sabotage of the heroes while being entirely justified by the threat posed to the world and that is one of the BETTER outcomes for your nation. Did it never occur to you or the others that if this world ends that she dies too? A parent wnating to protect thier child is understandable, but the moment you have to step in and stop them from getting hurt while you still can is part of it.
>I was studying to be a historian in my world but even a child that looks like her(blake's) age can see it not being long before Malty kills Malty to gain the throne if they were told this as a story.
>>3485190
The fate worse than death was politics. The crap her minion had also done pissed off literally the whole planet so she HAD to offer her up as a sacrifice.
>>
>>3485172
Having spies doesn't always involve acting on the information they get. Do too much with information your enemies don't want you to have and they'll know they're being monitored and start developing countermeasures.

Still not sure how grilling the shadow is going to accomplish anything. It's plain to see that the shadow would like nothing more but has decided to hold back. And for all we know, the shadows could be trying to hinder her behind the scenes.

As for the chimera fight, at what point did Flaithri suggest he should give up? Feeling inferior and deciding it's time to throw in the towel are very different things. Flaithri rallied right afterward and shredded the chimera so that Lucien and Riku couldn't snake the glory.
>>
>>3485224
Oh. Ohhhh. I dont mean give up or leave this world.

I mean just leave melromarc because fuck the politics
>>
>>3485193
>>3485084
>>3485073
>>3485134

After hearing her words, you start to contentment a lot about what the queen said. It certainly put things into perspective and answer some thing. Unfortunately it also raises just as many questions as it answer. Just what exactly happened during her stay at faubley's preposterous academy? How many people does she have in contact? Just how far does her scheming go? All this and more continue to flood your mind as you clearly no longer see her as the shrewd temptress. There was no doubt now, this woman...was absolutely vile.

>>3485073

'Yes I know a few people that can positively break it. One of them of course being the queen herself. Another would have to be an alchemist that's roaming the lands, The third is an orca in Q'ten Lo. There's also people in Zeltoble including the slave merchant's family. I can give you the information and even have a shadow or two support one of your friends to go and retrive said person. But Melody has to stay in your party and you have to stay in Melromarc to avoid suspicion. If Malty or her supporters and the church notice that you're trying to leave or something is up then they're going to act accordingly. Several people from other nations have also tried to get into contact with the cardinal heroes while their leaders are having the meeting with the Queen."

"Riku had receive talks from Faubley's envoys, Nickolas with Siltvert, and Lucien with Q'ten Lo. Each one were inconclusive, but I can bet that their envoys will not give up in recruiting them to their kingdom. You are also being targeted, Either by Shieldfreeden or more likely Zeltoble. So don't tread lightly. The Queen is doing her best to try and beat it to the people that the waves are more important then politics and personal gain. Despite the dangers...they still can't help their foolish selves to the temptation."

There was real anger in her tone. She was not happy with how the entirety of the world is more concern with their personal interests. Who can really blame her? The people were in danger and the world should be united in stopping the waves. Yet stuff like this was happening even now.

con
>>
We could probably ask what the bio seed really is since it was an obvious scheme but we lost too much blood to warn everyone else that it was probably a trick.

>>3485190
>>3485193
I should also mention that I vaguely remember part of that being shield hero's fault since he was asked if they could just kill her and edgy mc edgerson went full punish the witch the worst way you can while the rest were too insane to really care about a dissenting opinion. But my memory is vague on that since it's at least the second time that scenario would have happened.

>>3485250
Aren't we already leaving Melomarc the instant we can? The only real thing preventing us from sneaking out is Myne/Malty and her remote control detonator.

>Still not sure how grilling the shadow is going to accomplish anything. Sometimes you just really want to vent at the person on the other end of the phone, not that I've done so, but I understand ths sheer exasperation at all of those weeks of palace intrigue going on behind the scenes, the fate of the world, and everything else coming down to be because mommy and daddy couldn't just lock her up in a room under SANE supervision that wouldn't coddle her,
This is a miniature form of the /tg/ story where players realize they spent the last six months cockblocking an elf.
>>
>>3485270
You are right, this entire damn thing just sucks for us. Once we fix this slave seal we need to kill the bitch. Quick and uneventful, since she seems to be the center of all those scheme's. After let's hope we can go to normal hero shit.

If not and the world governments are being stupid, we light a Crusade. Since for meta reasons we know Killing 75% of the human population will also end the waves, I say fuck everyone else we are the new rulers of the world.
>>
>>3485286
Stop trying to steal Lucien's spot!
>>
>>3485266
>>3485266

>>3485134 >>3485193

Despite your best interest, you still decide to mess with the the burning fire by pointing out the flaws for not stopping Malty. Her eyes positively swift to a rather chilling yet calmly aggressive glare.

"...do you honestly believe we DON'T know that? Our country is the absolute worst in this by going back on the Queen's intent to bring the four Cardinal Heroes right here. The four heroes don't belong to anyone..yet everyone crave the same fortune that Faubley has by being built on past heroes. Not only does the queen and her people have to prevent a war from breaking out from the other kingdom, we have to deal with preventing a war in our own home. The king is falling apart, the nobles are trying to out one the other for political game, the church is gaining followers and trying to contentiously stomp on the Queen's efforts And worst of all, we have the four heroes splinted with one another, becoming easy pray for the different factions. Not to mention our own shadows being at risk. And do you honestly believe that putting an end to mind this early in the game will stop everything? If anything we'd lose the chance to put an end to all of this country's filth and only trigger the civil war. We been overextended dealing with all of these transactions, but the worst of it is that without proof it'll only give them the fires needed to spark the revolution and speak end to this country. Don't be so foolish! "

You really done it now by angering the Queen's shadow. It should be obvious that nothing in life can be so easy. Otherwise there wouldn't be much if any problems. There was a bunch of other reasons including the fact that there was a purging of nobles who don't side with the demi-human enslavement and purdging. The fact that the queen's appointed village, Rifana's home was destroyed was proof enough that the nobles were down right ready to betray their queen. Otherwise they wouldn't have done as much as they did towards their goals, including using the waves as a cover. So was it really right to try and take it out on the Queen and her followers? The same followers that your best bro Andros was in? The same people who want to save Melody and undo the damages done to people like Rifana?

>How do you respond?
>>
>>3485303

Forgot this.

The Queen's shadow takes a deep breath after noticing that she nearly lost her cool. She was scaring Blake and making her image look rather bad.

"I'm not saying you should get involved with the political game....All I ask is that you protect Melody until the Queen returns and continue fighting the waves. After that is done, I only want you to hear the queen out. After that...you're free to choose what do you with your life. You can even leave the country and never come back once this is all settled. All I, the Queen and her people ask...is you fight to save the world."
>>
>>3485303
>"You are all idiots. You have my word though, Melody will be protected. Bring that Alchemist to where we are, you already know it. We need to track down a 'bioseed' from a few days ago, First Bitch might have ran off with a means to create an army she thinks she can control."

And we leave. No reason scolding a weakling any more than we need to. If shit like this is happening everywhere Malty will be used as an example to those who wish to control the Spear, and maybe the shield if we ever see the bastard.
>>
>>3485334
Why do you wish to antagonize our one hope of Melody's and subsequently ours liberation? That seems pretty counter-productive to me.
>>
>>3485303
>You forgot another threat.

>The first known recorded tale/novel in my world was of the hero-King of Uruk named Gilgamesh. He was a tyrant who worked his people to death,killed them on whims and demanded the first wedding night of any newlywed bride in his city until his people prayed to the gods for help.
> He is a far different man by the end of the tale but the lesson I am imparting here is that the meaning of the word hero is merely one whom is strong. Sometimes there is divinity attached but I'd like to think I would have noticed that in my family tree. Noble intent has little to do with it. Eventually one of those heroes is going to come along to the messes this world makes
and decide they really could do better.
>I am no more special than millions of other people who could have been summoned instead in my world.

I feel like there's something better I could say but I'm sleepy enough that I shouldn't be thinking. NN.
>>
>>3485303
"Alright, I'll work with you. Though I would like it if you give me some way to contact you. Gotta be a discreet way as well. Don't want it leadin back to you or me mates." See if we can do something with our Smart phone Spear.
>>
>>3485303
the purpose of a country is to protect its citizens. If people are ALREADY dying, not even to monsters but to people and even those obliged to protect others, bit by bit preventing war stops having meaning. War would endanger a great many people, but you literally have a puppet king controlled by a megalomaniac: they're already in danger.

I just don't see the Queen as being anywhere close to having a legitimate claim for "the greater good". Even "for the country's good" is already shaky ground with Malty fucking everything up.


Real talk, I see the attempt to make the rampant idiocy more believable....but it's never going to happen. Given the state of the tate yuusha setting, you could soulkill Malty now and let the civil war happen and STILL less people would die.
>>
>>3485391

Trust me I know and I hate it. Hell I'm going to have to try and make things like fitoria less stupid/more believable.
>>
>>3485399
>filorial queens
>not stupid
so rewrite the whole thing and go OC?
>>
>>3485399
It’s not like more stupid things haven’t happened like that irl. 36 million died in ww1 over a disputed concerning a 6ish mile strip of land no one was even using if I recall the series of events right.
>>
>>3485406

you won a prize. Do you want to spoiled or wait until she comes in to see what I do?
>>
>>3485409
You might end up changing how monsters/hero-created races work on a fundamental level, so I'll stick to no spoilers
>>
Rolled 3 (1d4)

>>3485334
>>3485372
>>3485377
>>3485391
>>
>>3485377

"We're trying the best we can with our numbers to prevent death. But we must be cautious and thorough...we're slowly taking care of skeptical people in our ranks. But I do know...that nobody wants a war where innocents are sacrificed in the crossfire."

It was clear that the Queen was doing everything she can to keep the place from burning to the ground despite not being here. As well as the fact new people, specifically Malty seems to form to cause even more stress. Even so, the best course of action is to work with the Queen rather than rub it in her face that you have the moral high-ground. She didn't need to be told the obvious, especially when you recall the parental love for a child.

You briefly mention that the heroes could also be a problem if they are left untreated.

"Believe me...I'm aware of the dangerous of that happening. The queen had taken the necessary steps to keep Sir Nickolas from being consumed by hatred and despair since the falsified testimony. Sir Riku's obsession with strength and solitude is also being attended to as best we can. All we can hope is for his team to break through his wall and reach out to him. As for Lucien...he's the trickiest one of all. We can't fully expose ourselves without letting Malty on. We been quietly rebelling against her and stopping her plans...but we're split up and overstretched as it is. Until we can find out what has happened to the King, we can't be careless. Lastly there's you. The duel with Sir Nick has shown us that something abnormal has happened to you, much like the strange behavior of the king. Keep on your toes...and don't give into temptation."

That was a good enough answer for you. Things were starting to look at your favor. Still, you want to keep under contact with the Queen's shadow. So you pull out your Spearphone. She looks at this with confusion as you point it at her like taking a selfie. The spearphone started to recognize her imprint despite her perfect disguise and you end up seeing her real name in the phone. It was...Zorya Doesn't have a name in the story, and she really tried to keep her anonymity

"..You really are full of surprises. Anyway, to finish your last question. We did our research on all of you. Rifana for instance comes from a noble lineage. A long family of legendary warriors that inherent the strength of their ancestors as they get stronger with each generation. Their origins come from Q'ten Lo."

With that she slowly gets up from the chair and prepares to walk to the door. She leaves her right hand against the knob while looking back to you and your party.

con
>>
>>3485460

"We'll continue to support you through the shadows. So focus on the waves. Leave undermining Malty and the others's schemes to us if you can avoid it. Also I don't have to say it would be in everyone's interest that what we talked about stay between us right?"

After confirmation that you was going to keep this secret, The queen's shadow walks out before disappearing in the shadows. You really get the feeling that these shadows are practically ninjas. And the country their origin comes from maybe more akin to asia, but that's a thought for another time.

>What do you do now?

>Head home
>Wander through the castle
>Get some treatment for Aden
>Head to the church to check up on Melody
>Something else
>>
>>3485460

That line of research was to imply if you want to know more about your friends, you can always ask the shadows....unless you rather here it from them instead.
>>
>>3485463
>Head to the church to check up on Melody
>>
>>3485408
You don't. The first world war was triggered by a terrorist organization fighting for Serbian and Bosnian independence assassinating an Austrian prince, and Russia pledging to protect Serbia leading to all the allies of Austria and Russia being called into a massive factional war. The "disputed strip of land" you're referring to is, I assume, the western front battlefield, but the point of the fighting there was always to destroy the enemy's army, not to capture the land.
>>
>>3485463
>Head to the church to check up on Melody
>>
>>3485521
>>3485473

It wouldn't take you long to reach the massive cathedral where the dragon's hourglass was held. It also served to make it quite easy for people to reach the Church of the Three Heroes to pray and show worship to the noble Heroes. As you make you way inside, you would see both Melody and Andros talking to someone. From what you can tell it looks to be...the worst person you could ask for. It didn't take him long to notice you coming into the church as he forms a smile at you.

"Ah, why if it isn't the great Spear Hero Sir Flaithrí Ó Ruairc. It is a pleasure to meet you again. This would be the first time we actually talked outside of the tactical meetings. "

And there he was, Pope Gregory right in the middle of things. To the side was a maiden in the priestess outfit currently holding what appears to be a well crafted bottle containing a strange liquid.

"As your companion Melody requested, here is the holy water that you seek. We just got done preparing it so it is quite fresh and potent. We're happy to give our blessing to someone like you Sir Flaithrí"

Naturally you ask him precisely what did he mean by that seeing the vile come at your way. The pope continue to have his closed eyed smile. It was best to keep the formalities and keep on your toes exactly like Zorya said. Blake on the other hand was too busy distracted by the shiny stuff around. No matter how human Blake appears, it doesn't change the fact that Blake is a dragon. And as far as the myths and fictions told you, Dragons like shiny stuff. So naturally Elena had to keep Blake under control.

"Not only did you follow the plan, but you also the one who put yourself at harms way in order to eliminate the Chimera. In addition, you also defended the people's honor by defeating the shield hero. Even if the other heroes called it off, everyone knows that your strength is true. And that brings us, the followers of the church of the three heroes great satisfaction of your achievements. Truly you are the divine spear for the people. So if we can aid you in ways like this holy water here, then why shouldn't we lend a helping hand?"

>Ask for how much and pay him
>Examine the Holy Water first
>Take it and go
>Ask what you and Melody were talking about
>Something else
>>
>>3485573
>Take it and go
Examine it once we're out of sight of the church. Then ask Melody what they were discussing.
>>
>>3485573
Take it and go. Annoying bastard with his mind control. Can we check to make sure our party isnt under some effect?
>>
>>3485589
>>3485675
Supporting.
>>
>>3485573
>Core Spear
>Take it and go
Places to be, monsters to kill, people to save, etc.
>>
>>3485511


That was a trigger, but he was actually just an excuse to invade Serbia so when the Austrians angrily made demands designed to be rejected they would have an excuse to invoke war the Serbians shocked the Austrians via agreeing to almost all of them.
>>
>>3485705
>>3485511
GDI. I fogot the youtube link.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqYNDnw5gxY
Arguably the extremely tiny land grab that the austrians wanted to do with or without him was more important than Archduke ferdinand himself.
>>
>>3485573
I was going to anoint (Absorb) the holy water into the spear, but now I'm half afraid they know how to fuck with the spear.
>Place the holy water in the item box while making it look like we placed it within the spear.

>I was a historian by trade and the worlds some of the other heroes come from sounds fascinating, do you have any journals of past heroes that I might borrow when the meeting for the third wave starts to learn more about their worlds?
The hope here is that this bypasses the retarded heroes know everything dogma because it's the heroes know everything about THIS world, not all others.

>Tell him that a hero's work is never done even in times of rest and an important man like himself must know that feeling more than we do, so we hope he understands that we must be off.
>
>>3485406
I dunno. Firo theoretically isn't stupid, but her personality is
>>
>>3485719
By default, filorials are a race of monsters bio-engineered to love the shit out of pulling carts. BIO. ENGINEERED. BRAINWASHING.

And given how they can talk to any other filo or dragon no problem, pretty much all monsters(or at least created ones) are sapient. Let that sink in for a moment. Literal hordes of monsters in servitude, smart enough to learn languages without direct instruction, lead and even create society if their genetic code wasn't stopping them, with superior growth speed, breeding speed, and strength to humans. It's Skynet.

Also how being in a hero's party influences their physical characteristics. The weapons are literally doing gene therapy on the things 24/7, without any intention or cost, and the monster comes out as anything without cancer.

"theoretically stupid" is built in on multiple levels.
>>
>>3485573
>Ask for how much and pay him

Ask him if he knows of any people suffering at the hands of monsters and the like (make it look like you want to help the people while leveling up)
>>
>>3485737
I must have missed the bio engineering implications even if I did notice the fact that there's entire races of sapient beings with slave seals forced upon them. The bio engineering aspect brings forth far more implications like them being created as some sort of livestock for the heroes while their "normal" form is just for keeping up the population.
The line gets a bit blurry due to slave seals probably also brainwashing and Naofumi's own latent abilities also doing minor brainwashing to any creature on some level.
>>
>>3485771
spoilers(like, probably won't be covered in season 1 spoilers), but The previous heroes put a LOT of things in place. The guns, the filorials, forgot if the dragons count as well. Literally created in the same way the bio-seed mods are, only with animals instead of plants.

The lay people don't really get it, but it IS common knowledge that filorials just love pulling carts as a species.
>>
>>3485737
>>3485771
I'm half tempted to spark the Filorial IRA via pointing out that they could make their own carts to pull as much as they want without humans and have more free time to play even if it's cart related play. Or the joys of capitalism to sponsor the most magnificent cart they can imagine. But I guess if they want to settle for a box on wheels then that's their decision.
>>
>>3485589
>>3485675
>>3485679
>>3485701

You graciously take the holy water from the tray rather slowly and goes to put it into your inventory. Afterwards, you decide to pull out some money in order to pay for the cost. Assuming that it was fresh high good, you were going for the gold. That is until Pope Gregory stopped you by lifting his hand.

"No money is needed for one of the three great heroes of our church. Doing god's work is more than enough payment. For instance, taking in one of the church's finest healers. It gives me a rather sorrowful heart to see one our own suffering previously regardless if their actions have brought them misfortune and ended up becoming excommunicated as a result. Ultimately, she was put away for her and everyone else's safety. But this must be all in the plan of the holy faith. As you came to our world and essentially gave her a second chance at redemption. So I hope that she continues to heal your wounds and help bring fortune to the Church's noble hero."

His speech, mannerism and always smiling face was positively creepy for you. However, your historian knowledge keep you from losing face and knowing exactly how to keep appearance to please someone like the pope. You gracefully bow and thank him for his support. The last thing you ask was >>3485719

"Of course, I'll discuss with the king quickly and see if we can give you the key to the historian library. So for now take this journal and the church's bible. I would like to give you more but like you said you are a busy man and an important job. Like...keeping an eye on the shield hero and converting his faith to the path of redemption like our melody here and Sir Andros."

He hands you both books alongside with the amulet of the church of the three heroes and a trader's pass. He continues to keep his smile and creeping the hell out of you. But you take his gift, once again showing thanks and bowing before leaving with the party.

"May the holy faith bring you many victories and protect you from the evil of the lands."

With that you were out of the church, looking at the party to see that their current status is fine. Still, you wanted to get as far as from the church as possible. Once you were out of sight you continue your examination of both the party and the holy water. So far they were both okay and the holy water was the real deal. The highest class they were offering. You can assume he didn't want to trick you....or maybe he felt like there was no need to underhandedly mess with you like you assume he did in the meeting. Either way, you talk to Melody about the confrontation.

con
>>
>>3485890

"...He wanted to ask if I have been helping the hero as god wanted me too. To be on the path of redemption for my sins and embrace the church's warmth and faith. Earning my place back into the church so long as I continue fighting the waves with the hero on the path of redemption. He was asking both andros and I to gracefully repent for our sins and keep fighting for the world's sake and the church's."

Melody was obviously shaken up from the experience. Yet she was holding herself together unlike previously where she would have fallen apart from being in the church. Andros on the other hand kept his eyes out looking for anything suspicious despite being far away from the church. There's no doubt he knows precisely about the shadows and what the church is capable of, so he was already on deep guard. As expected as a former noble who's family deeply worked with the royal bloodline.

What do you do?

>Pack up and leave now
>Stay the night at the inn
>Go to the market
>Something else
>>
>>3485901

PS: You unlocked a new path to getting stronger via the shadows. So when you start your week to week management, you can request Zorya personally or one of her chosen shadows to train you in what you desire.
>>
>>3485901
>Go to the market
>>Salt, Seawater, fantasy pesticides for plant stuff
>>Acids, Bases/soaps, explosives for debuffs
>>Rope, Silk Rope, Chains for ensnare stuff
>>Herbs, perfumes, teas for potions and calming aromas
>>Saddles and spurs for riding spears

>Crystal Orb thingy

Do we want to recruit a personal smith or tailor? If there's ever a time for custom spears and dedicated equipment for the rest of the party, now's the time.
>>
>>3485925
+1
>>
>>3485925
This might be funny, but maybe we should find out who does the Shield's work. If he's helping them, it means his ties to the kingdom are nice and loose.
>>
>>3485901
I think basic literary analysis might be in order since the lust spear thing isn’t even unusual for most hero stories. There’s generally a major personality flaw of some sort that goes way out of hand. We’ve just been cherry picking the happier hero stories for telling the party.
(Not a vote, just getting a feel for if anyone is ok with us noting something as basic as the heroes journey maybe indicating that the curse weapon series activating is actually norma which is its own brand of horror depending on the perspective)
>>3485925
I’d not been getting around to us grabbing a smith, but I would try to negotiate a fee we pay to absorb a spear if it’s equivalent isn’t already in our inventory. They can sell it as one of the spears used by the spear hero as a sort of product endorsement. I’m against doing the copy for free thing to him since we need at least a capitalistic motivation for him making better Spears in the future.
If it’s a vote for that then i’m In.
I’ll support the other stuff too. Put in a hot tea if we don’t finish our stop at a cafe to test on if the item box has insulation properties. I don’t really have a mental image of however it works, so no reason to not see if we can prevent spoilage via item box.
>>3485970
Pretty sure there’s only around one Smith shop that sells weapons in town since in the OG story the other heroes all copied his shit and left. One or two I could buy, but all of them? He must have low competition.
In retrospect we should have spoken to that ninja with the translation off to see what would happen. There’s always a chance they actually know our language.
>>
>>3486041
Clone maybe instead of absorb?
>>
>>3486041
Hence custom orders. We're essentially paying materials and ideas to the guy, and given how many party members we have quite a bit of money for armor, too.

But we need to work out if we want some sort of mobile forge or research into where we want to set up a base of operations to come back to(read: anywhere not here) for each custom order.
>>
>>3486041
They've been running around copying everything from every shop. I wouldn't be surprised if they just came in, shopped, scanned, and left without saying a word.

In that case they could likely hit 10 shops in a day.
>>
>>3485925
>>3485966

You decide to go to the market. You were going to need a lot of supplies and your adventuring so far has only taught you what you need the most. So within a span of an hour and a half, you manage to get all kinds of assortments. >>3485925

You are eternally thankful you have most of the party with you to gather the supplies. More importantly you had Elena there to get you good deals. You're a historian, not a merchant. So it was better to not pretend to be one. Still, you do take the time to learn from Elena at least how not to get yourself scammed whenever she's not around to act as a safety net.

After getting the supplies, you decide it was probably for a best to find a proper blacksmith and/or tailor. Sure you had the book of blacksmithing for dummies, but you had only just reach the reading level of a third grader. It was ultimately better to learn through experience to really get it right.

So you head to the place where the Shield Hero works after Blake said that he smell the scent of a hero coming from a shop not too long ago. Through Blake's navigation you end up finding Erhard's shop. It was still active despite being closer to the night so you were lucky to have made it before closing hours. So you step inside to look around. This hasn't been your first time in weapon shops as you have on occasion been going to them for weapon copying purposes.

However...this was the first time you seen a shop in castle town that actually holds shields. It then dawn upon you exactly why Nick comes to this place to do business. Speaking of business, Erhard was coming from the back of the smithing room with a towel draped over his neck.

"Ah welcome to the weapon shop. How can I help you traveling adventurers."

>Ask him if he knows any smith/tailors that be willing to travel with you
>Ask some questions about Nick
>Ask him your recommendation for weapons/items
>Sell
>Something else

Do you want a boy or a girl, or you don't care
>>
>>3486041

Also I support the fee thing. I think it would fit Flurry's character by not being a scumbag and copying weapons/equipment without paying. Though unless you purposely told them, they're thinking you are giving donations to them.
>>
>>3486063

Erhad [on the right
>>
>>3486063
>Get a chimera shield done with whatever leftover parts we have.
>Tell him that if he finishes it before we come to pick it up, show it to Nick first so he can have a look.

>Ask him if he knows any smith/tailors that be willing to travel with you
I just realized we have a dragon. Can dragons breath fire hot enough to forge with?

>Ask him your recommendation for weapons/items
What equipment is good against Curses.
What equipment is good while mounted.
Are there any materials known for being ghostly?
>>
>>3486063
>Ask our group to shop while we ask permission from the guy. Might as well mention we came here because Shield recommended your shop.

I just thought of this, but this guy can be an in between for us the Nick.
>>
>>3486063
Ask him his recommendation for weapons/items.
Ask him if he’d be able to make some sort of clothing or armor for a being that can shape shift. The way the spear works also gave us an idea so we want to ask and expert like yourself on if it’s feasible. Would it be possible to some kind of enchanted clothing that can swap places with armor that is enchanted in like how we can swap between spears.
( I want Blake’s clothes to have some Celtic designs on em if we could?)
My biggest trouble so far was from a monster able to force us to attack it while also being able to transfer the effects onto others. Could you make charms against those sorts of effects? (Maybe suggest some ornamental designs since while Celtic runes weren’t as outright OP magical bullshit as Norse runes, magical charms made with them did still exist.)
>>
>>3486063
Supporting, except I think we should just give Nick the chimera head directly so he can absorb it into the shield.

>>3486063
A girl, why not?
>>
>>3486144
We did give him the head. We got a Chimera's main body though still to get rid of and a shield wielder who can use it.
>>
>>3486083
>>3486085
>>3486101

You ask of creating a chimera shield with the left over parts of the chimera you gathered. [Saying you took your selfie with your team and the chimera elsewhere before this] This surprises Erhard as he takes a moment to look at you. You stood there, keeping your cool before speaking of Nick and asking him to see it first.

"A chimera huh? Well any friend of Nickolas is a friend of mine. And I always treat my friends good. You don't look like the lying type.So you must be the spear hero he has been talking about. "

It seems you got in good favor with the blacksmith. This was good since if anyone could talk to Nick and not be shut down by his distrustful nature it seems to be people he strongly works with. And from what you gather from Erhand, he was a hard-working and trusting individual.

"Sure I'll have him give a look. Heck with these supplies, I can even make chimera armor to go with that shield. Just tell me who is going to wear the armor and have them come over so I can get their measurements and I'll have it ready for you in a jiffy."

It goes without saying that there was only one person in your party who would benefit the most from all of this. She was the one who did the most work in holding back the Chimera while the rest of you took advantage of it.

You then start to ask some recommendation about weapons/items, what was good against curses, what works for mounting, even ones that are being ghostly. You were asking a lot, including clothing/armor that can shapeshift and switch out.

"My you got quite the big list. I can't turn down anyone who wants to be well prepared. Anyway, yes there are clothing that can transform and shapeshift with the user. Many people who are skilled at transformation magic buy them to avoid ending up just being the person they want to turn into with their clothing still on or worse...naked. I can make the armor, but I know a tailor who can make the clothing and a witch who can make the magic thread. I just need the person's mana if we're going by the armor so it can be infused into the material ores. "

con
>>
>>3486144
>>3486085

While you and Erhand talk, your party was shopping around and looking at the best deals as he explains each weapon to them. He got a bit flustered over being recommended by the shield hero which lead you to ask more about him.

"In the time that I managed to talk to him, he usually was direct and open about his opinion. Just a few weeks ago he called this country the land of the lolicons just because people were giving his cute tanuki friend Raphtila stuff. I take it he didn't know about the demi-humans's special innate ability or just didn't want to acknowledge the little girl he brought in was now a beautiful woman. As for you, he talked about how you were always a hard read. You act entirely on emotion and it always seem you do whatever your heart tells you for better or worse. It aggravated him how such a man could be so spontaneous...but...I think deep down he was happy that there was a hero who didn't turn his back on him. "

Talk about a deepening moment. Still, you didn't let yourself get too distracted from learning about how Nick currently felt about you. Instead, you went back to discussing deals as the blacksmith provided you the necessary equipments for everything you ask.

"As for the ghostly stuff, I'll have to custom make those. They require a rare substance that uses pure mana in order to combat the incorporeal. Same goes for making armors that can switch, it goes without saying you can afford it. If not, we can work out a tab. I can't be greedy when the fate of the world rest in the balance."

A genuine reasonable and dependable adult, since when the last time you met someone like that who wasn't in the party or working with the queen ? You tell him that you got the cash for it and pay him some money in advance for good faith. You then proceed to ask about a blacksmith/tailor you know who can come along with you for your adventure.

"Sure I know a person. Directly train them myself. Let me just call her out. Yo Freya, I got an interesting looking person who can use your service."

The blacksmith called out, alerting the person out back of your need for them. A few hammer strings clacked against the metal as you then hear a loud hissing sound. You can only assume something was being dunk as you then begin to hear footsteps.

con
>>
>>3486221

"Yeah yeah I heard. I can practically just hear the two of you talk like a couple of school girls out back while I was getting this order done."

Out from the back came a rather tall woman, wearing an apron over her clothing for obvious reason. There were goggles over her eyes as she begins to grip her leather padded gloves. Before she goes to look at you she then takes off her bandana, revealing her long blue hair, currently tied in two low styled twintails. She slowly walks over to you in order to get a good feel for you. She did the whole 360 turn while you continue to eye her accordingly.

"Hmm,I guess you're the real deal after all. Got that magic spear and everything. Though, unless I'd actually touch you...I can't exactly get a reading from how strong you really are. Despite that, you look like someone who knows how to fight and has experienced the waves first hand. "

She placed her right hand against her face after taking off her gloves. Fingers tapping on her white skin, naturally gotten from being too cooped up in the armory out back making weapons for so long. Her attention turns to the rest of the party so far, her eyes looking especially at Blake who was playing with the swords like they were balancing bowling ball pins.

"Quite the diverse lil party you got there. Same thing I say to you covers them, but I feel like they got more experience compared to some otherworlder. Still, if Erhand wants me to go then I can't exactly turn him down. But just do me one favor before we set this up?"

You agreed to do that favor while she starts to walk you and the group to the outside back part of the shop. It doesn't take that long of a walk but you find yourself in an open area akin to a parking lock as the buildings kept those on lookers from seeing. She slowly walks to the other side, her hands on her hips as she takes off her apron.

"Let me have a practice match with you. I'm interested to see what the legendary spear can do. And I'm sure you want to know precisely what I can do outside of blacksmithing and tailoring right? So it'll be killing two birds with one stone, so how about it?"

She asks a rather bold favor as she puts on a pair of custom made gauntlets on her hands. There were leg gauntlets underneath her boots as well. You can already tell...she knows how to fight.

"Oh forget my manners. My name is Freya...Freya Rosenberg. A pleasure to meet you"

How do you respond?

>Accept her challenge
>Decline
>Something else
>>
File: NIAbbCR.jpg (42 KB, 571x767)
42 KB
42 KB JPG
>>3486261
>>
>>3486261
>Accept her challenge
We have no real reason to turn her down.
>>
>>3486101

I been asking on the style of clothing you want them wearing or the outfits since they're your baby dragon.

And yes >>3486083 Dragon fire breath is hot enough to be used for forging.
>>
>>3486291
>I been asking on the style of clothing you want them wearing or the outfits since they're your baby dragon.
Goth-loli dresses, of course.
>>
>>3486261
>Accept her challenge
>Say your full name and get into a fighting stance.
>>
File: Spoiler Image (214 KB, 393x1958)
214 KB
214 KB JPG
>>3486261
>Interesting name. The norse considered Freyja a goddess of gold love war,death and a few other things.
Be at least slightly humble.
>The spear did a bunch of the work, although I'm trying to learn. Anything you can teach me about not dying horribly is welcome. Accept the duel.

>>3486291
Doing some research in another tab. So far i've learned that Gauls probably invented soap, liked lots of gold decorations (She's a dragon so that might encourage her to keep her clothes on too), loved bright colours, and trade networks were so far that they even had their own types of silk.
Pic related is a princess's dress, but I think that's too plain, so that's probably more of a general outline than a final form if anyone even likes it.

>>3486298
Too much goth loli in the dress and Bllake might get kidnapped by a lolicon! We must be vigilant!
>>
>>3486341
I probably should have opened the photo up in an editor to see what it looked like after I saved.
If anyone missed the obvious. I was talking about the dress at the top.
>>
>>3486298
The only right answer.

>>3486341
If anything, Blake would probably prefer something simple since she doesn't like clothes very much, but I think a good deal of black would look better with her hair.
>Too much goth loli in the dress and Bllake might get kidnapped by a lolicon! We must be vigilant!
A valid concern, but anybody who tries is guaranteed to end up on the business end of the Spear of Lust/Gae Bolg.
>>
>>3486341
>>3486344
What if we take the top dress and pimp it out? It's simple enough without being so extremely plain and we can add more extravagant detail to it via different colors and stitching.
>>
>>3486364
That's generally my idea, although you probably are thinking of more of an extreme than me.
The more shiny Blake considers it, the more she's likely to go along with clothes due to her dragon instincts. It'll be her first treasure.
>>
>>3486285
>>3486327
>>3486341

You naturally give out your full name as you summon your spear in it's natural state. Although this person called Freya is a blacksmith, you can tell by her physique and composure that she was no slouch. A familiar kind of excitement starts boiling through your body. But this wasn't the cause due to the Spear of Lust inside of you no. This was just good old irish blood pumping through your veins as you speak to Freya.

>>3486341

"Is that so? Rather honest about yourself to tell me that and not get a big head. For that I'll show you my gratitude by complying with your request."

The two of you stare each other down, observing whatever you can about the other. While you took a standard spear stance, Freya was kneeling down with her legs spread across. It was an unorthodox stance that was for sure, but you get the feeling there was more than meets the eye. The wind blows at this moonlight night as the moment the signal was called, that was when both of you would strike.

A simple thrust just to measure exactly the skill of this trained fighter was the logical first step. Much to your surprise, you would see Freya not only outmaneuvering your first strike but also stand on your spear with both of her hands. Exposing her legs directly too you as she proceeds to deliver a flurry of kicks in a bicycle spin. You manage to dodge most of them, but one kick in particular lands directly against your shoulders, pushing you back as you skit across the ground. Leaving Freya to spin in the air as she lands on her feet.

>How do you proceed?

write out your tactics
>>
>>3486341
>Too much goth loli in the dress and Bllake might get kidnapped by a lolicon! We must be vigilant!
I think it's a bit too late to keep Blake out of the hands of a lolicon. She's already in the spear hero's party, after all.
>>
>>3486388

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6G21A_gYLI
>>
>>3486388
She seems to rely mainly on dodges, so it might be a good idea to use our homing option to limit that. With a spear, we have a significant reach advantage, so it would probably be best to focus on cuts rather than thrusts, keeping her at the edge of our range and making sure she can't close.
>>
>>3486388
Start with a downwards strike and see the direction she dodges in. If she dodges to either side, activate Trinity Spear Strike and immediately launch into a horizontal swing to catch her in-between those first two swings and a straight thrust to catch her if she tries to pull back.
>>
>>3486408
We aren't a lolicon. That's more of OG shield's thing. He's so much of one he goes into denial at Raph's growing body!

>>3486425
I can go with this.
If she tries the same trick again could we somehow retaliate with a pseudo dragon breath or would that be too difficult for us at our current skill level? I think that wouldn't hurt her too bad since as a smithy she might have some fire resistance learned or accessories for that.
>>
>>3486446

People are capable of spitting fire from their mouth, but that's more a typical monster thing so usually it would be frown upon cause Muh Humanity/Nobility.

But who cares about keeping image
>>
>>3486446
>We aren't a lolicon.
Hey, speak for yourself. As far as I can tell, Flaithri as a character doesn't have clearly defined tastes in women.
>>
>>3486457
Up until now, I think the only woman he's shown some interest in is Elena (and technically Myne but spear of lust so it doesn't really count). In fact, since he has the lust curse, I'd think he's probably open to a wide range of types.
>>
>>3486457
He didn't show interest in Vivian until the lust spear went into overdrive.
So far Melody (Dat toned arse), (possibly)Aden, and Elaine are the ones we've "noticed" without prompting from the Phalluspear. We also didn't 'notice' Rifa until she was fully grown even if it's in more of a father realizing he's going to have to beat off young boys with a stick sort of way.

That's not to say that we cannot appreciate the petite, but we probably are just rolling with the local culture considering Vivian old enough to be an adventurer instead of considering her to be some whippersnapper. TLDR, she's imoutozoned.
>>
>>3486485
>Vivian is imoutozoned
The Blake thing was more of a joke, but I'm against you all the way on the Vivian subject. Fairly certain she's a heroine candidate, assuming we don't go full harem with the lust spear's effects.
>>
>>3486425
>>3486438
>>3486446

You switch to the twin hound spear after pulling yourself from the ground. The feeling of your shoulder still tingles from the kick. Just one of them was enough to make your entire body shake. If this wasn't a non-lethal fight, you would probably be having a more dangerous wound given the nature of her kicks.

Freya once again took the same stance as before. Getting ready for whatever next attack you would dish out to her. Fortunately you have the spear, so in terms of reach you have the significant advantage regardless of her height. Yet you wanted to be sure so you test her skills some more with the next move.

You first start with a downward strike rather than a simple thrust. Surprisingly, she lung forward, aiming for something you did not consider in the slightest. From your vision you would see Freya using her hands to catch the spear as it creates a powerful kinetic force from the impact. You didn't have the time to admire the fact she could catch your weapon and reduce the impact and damage with her gauntlets.

So instead you went with Trinity Spear Strike to capitalize on the moment. Two other copies of you magically appear from both side in order to deliver two different horizontal swings to try and strike her down on the side. Freya's eyes started to dart themselves at each attack. quickly tightening her grip on your spear. She quickly pushed it downwards to propel herself back to avoid the two strikes through graceful acrobatics. This was all according to plan since you still had your third straight thrust to deliver as well as "Predator" effect was active.

So without hesitation, you send a powerful thrust with the hound shooting forward towards Freya. Her eyes narrow as her body started to glow. Her right hand points directly to you.

"Faust tornado!"

A powerful gust of wind shot against her hand. A miniature tornato formed as it clashes against your spear. It wasn't strong enough to stop the hound attack of course or the full brunt of your spear given the time she didn't have to cast a full power version...but you get the feeling she didn't do that merely to deflect your attack. Rather she was using the boosted gust to propel herself back! Just barely missing the range of your attack as she spins. But your twin hound spear's effect was charging at her strong. Her body had soon finished glowing however.

"and...Zweite Accel Boost!"

con
>>
>>3486506

Upon touching the ground, she suddenly dashed away from the hound at tremendous speeds. She was positively moving like a supersonic running as the hounds start to follow after her. She quickly jumped from one spot to another, avoiding each attack the hounds make with her acrobatics. But she wasn't done there. She was moving faster...and faster. Starting to circle around you as she makes multiple copies of herself while forming a hurricane around you. The hurricane didn't do any damage of course, but she did effectively cut off your chance to escape. Still this oddly enough reminded you of Rifana's clone technique, but at the same time it was different.

>How do you react?
>>
>>3486494
Search your heart, you know she is an adorable imouto!
>>3486510
Tripping at that speed sounds dangerous, but we have levels in this world.
>Sap spear to mess with her foot grip or something else if anyone knows our spear selection better than me.
>Alternatively we try something with the spider spear to trap her in a web while also doing trinity strike to leave her with less of an opening.
>>
>>3486510
Chained Beast Spear + Spear Forest. Spider Spear would probably get broken right through with her sheer speed, but she has a better chance of being caught in the chains. If anything, it'll hurt that much more when she runs into them.

Quick question - will changing spears while Spear Forest is active change the spear that makes up the forest too?

>>3486485
>He didn't show interest in Vivian until the lust spear went into overdrive.
I must have missed the part where he does, I thought Myne was the one he showed interest in thanks to the spear. I'm struggling to find it, so would you mind pointing it out?

>>3486494
Vivian will always have the 7-year age gap to contend with as well as the fact that she won't be a proper adult by our world's standards for the next couple of years.
Pretty sure all the girls are heroine candidates if we decide to go down any particular route though. Even Blake, though I can't say I think that's a good idea since she's like a month old.
>>
>>3486547

The previous spear you summon will remain at the last spear you use. So you want to summon another pillar while spear forest is active, it will then change to your current spear.
>>
>>3486547
It's gonna turn out that we were Blake's first treasure before anything else.
This is how they're gonna lay claim on us to tell the other kingdoms to fuck off.
Could be worse, could be raining nuclear radiation.
>>
>>3486547
Spider silk is stronger than steel pound for pound, difficult to see, and "grabs" the target due to electromagnetism. The real kicker is how strong/thick the threads that come out are.
>>3486547
>I must have missed the part where he does, I thought Myne was the one he showed interest in thanks to the spear. I'm struggling to find it, so would you mind pointing it out?
It was noted that he wanted to bone ALL of the party while lust was being active which would include Vivian and Rifa. Rifa is in the deepest pit of the daughterzone so that absolutely had to be the spear's influence.
>>
>>3486562

Stronger than steel wires that's for sure. Very good at capturing as it beats out chain, while chain is the stronger restraining if you want to play the long game.
>>
>>3486552
So to make sure I understand:
Spears summoned by Spear Forest don't change when the main spear changes?
And after changing the main spear, subsequent spears summoned by Spear Forest will be that new spear?

>>3486554
>we bought our own fucking yandere for 50 silver
>Now we're raising it to claim us
What have we done

>>3486562
Oh, that, okay. I thought you meant that there was a specific instance of in-character text where Flaithri regards Vivian as a nice piece of ass rather than the general statement we were given.

As for spider silk, I'm still on the fence about which one to use. Spider would definitely be better for the initial snag, but the chains have the ensnare effect. Our best move might be
>Spider Spear + Spear Forest
>Change to Chained Beast Spear and ensnare Freya
>>
>>3486584

Essentially yes. First spear forest you summon will remain the same as the main spear you use prior to changing. Any subsequent spears summoned by spear forest will be based around the new spear.
>>
>>3486619
My god, what monstrosity of a sentence does autocorrect and my fat fingers keep trying to make?

>>3486584
I feel like she's too agile for spear forest under normal circumstances but your combining it with spear forest intrigues me.

I suppose there's the moment where we're in a party with Rifa and Vivian and we think would be a lolicon's dream, but that didn't seem like we were excited or disappointed about the prospect.

Elena will protect us! If more Yandere had a stern mommy they'd turn out better!
>>
>>3486639
It's specifically because she's so agile that I think it's a good idea. We'll essentially be making her play the world's stickiest game of "the floor is lava" and she'll either get stuck or have to focus so much on maintaining her mobility that we'll have plenty of time to either nab her or cook up some other scheme.

>stern mommy
If only. Blake sees Elena as an older sister, not a mom. It's just a matter of time before Blake hits her rebellious phase, pounces on us, and proudly declares her ownership in front of the whole party.
I expect we'll see various degrees of shock, surprise, and anger while Andros has the time of his life watching it all play out.
>>
>>3486639
>we're in a party with Rifa and Vivian and we think would be a lolicon's dream,
If only she hadn't grown up so fast...
I'm still going to push for the Vivian route. That said, yanderes are a treasure; yandere lolis moreso. If Blake goes that way, it'll definitely be a great thing.
>>
>>3486669
It's not surprising when you consider that the in story dragons are canonically mass rapists. I had to go what the hell when that lolicon dragon offered to rape Naofumi's resident mad scientist. We're gonna have a bunch of work cut out for us and if we're lucky we only end up with a new Queen Medb


>>3486678
Everyone has their preferences. I don't see what reason there was for Megumeme to become to popular as a love interest, but as a fellow troublemaker, she's great company.
>>
>>3486584
>>3486532
>>3486547

It was simply astonishing to see Freya move with such speeds. It was getting really hard to tell which of the after images she was moving with was the real and who was the fake.

So if you couldn't figure it out before she would strike at you. Then only thing to do was to strike them all. You decide to use change spear, swapping from Twin Hound Spear into Spider Spear. With it's "Capture" Skill, it would be able to shoot strong yet sticky webbing in order to try and catch her.

For added insurance you waited until she came too you. Just moments before she reached your danger zone with the multiple after images, you slams your spear into the ground. Thus triggering spear forest from all sides. Just a hairs breath from hitting the real one, you see Freya pulling back as she jumps into the air just from touching the tip. In response, the spear forest shot out multiple webs at her in order to capture her accordingly.

In order to avoid them, Freya started to hop from wall to wall along on the ground. The high speed movement made her appear like a hopping rabbit going into hyper drive. Although with the way she kicks, maybe kangeroo was more accurate. Your eyes could barely keep up to the blur as she dashes around the battlefield to avoid the growing spear forest Then you weren't sure if your eyes were deceiving you or not as you notice her body glowing again. Unfortunately, even with that in mind, your real tactic made itself known as most of the battlefield was being covered in sticky webs. Thus lowering places for Freya to jump to. As she comes to realize this rather quickly, several of the webbing finally caught her as she was restrained from all sides. Giving you the chance to switch spears, from Spider Spear to Chained Beast Spear.

"Tsc...Zweite Burst Boost!"

She tore through the spider webs through her enhanced herculean strength with just a flex. Although there was still the most concentrated of the shot around her left ankle as it stick to her leg against the wall. Giving you the chance to finally cast the next spear forest at her.

"Dynamite Knuckle!"

She moves her hand at blinding speed to punch at the webbing that was still on her legs as the chain spear forest pursuit her. That only made her punch faster, stronger and harder as her muscles tense and expand. By the time she breaks the webbing it was enough time for the spear forest to reach her. Despite this, Freya shoots through the forest like a shooting star, her body slowly getting ensnared by the chains. Yet she moves into a kicking pose like a certain japanese tv show.

"Dynamite Kick Full Burst!"

Even with her power being drained, it still build up as she shot towards you. You only strengthen your chains and prepare for Spear Shot! This was the deciding blow as the two of you prepare to strike with everything you have. That is until...

con
>>
>>3486800

"Ars Zweite Stop"

Both you and Freya were suddenly frozen in place as immense gravity weight you down. The sheer amount feels like that time itself was stopping altogether. You turn to see who cast the spell and it looks to be Vivian as she was panting a bit while Elena stood next to her dropping the flag as acting referee for the fight.

"This match is over. Any further and you two would've ultimately alerted the entire town with your stunt even with Vivian's magic stealth circle earlier."

>How do you respond

>Accept and call off your attack
>Go full ham and fight anyway
>Something else
>>
>>3486819
"OKKKKKK Moooooom!" Drop our stance and put away our spear. "It was getting interesting, too..." Pout.
>>
>>3486819
>Accept and call off your attack
Smirkingly, "Thank you for the reminder, Elena. I'd hate to lose my temper and end up seriously hurting Freya, here."
>>
>>3486819
>Accept and call off your attack
"Well, alright. We've accomplished what we set out to do in the first place."
>>
>>3486819
>Did we record that? I want to review and see what I could have done better. Might be a good idea to do that during the next wave to review things too?
>>
>>3486859
>>3486879
>>3486896

You decide to call off your attack, putting away your spear while calling Elena mom. Elena looks at you with an anger mark behind her head. Blake looks at Elena the moment you called her mom.

"So Big Sis is actually mama? Then that means master is also papa and not harem king!"

Andros just busts out laughing while Melody and Vivian are positively embarrassed. Elena on the other hand was pinching her eyebrows, hiding her face although she was clearly as red as a tomato. You are positively stunned if not equally embarrassed about the entire thing. No amount of answer could get out of this one. So it was best to change the subject. So you do by teasing Freya >>3486879

"Don't bring me into this. I'd admit your strong and the legendary spear is certainly formidable. But in terms of experience, I'm still the better fighter. You rely too much on your spear's power and skills rather than your own spearsmanship."

She was obviously flustered and mad, but Freya still had a point. That's precisely why you're trying to find a true master. In order to improve your spear technique and be a more well balanced vanguard. After laughing a bit you turn back to the gang. >>3486896 Afterwards, you extend your hand to Freya, welcoming her to the crew and appreciating that you have another main front-liner to support the others.

"Humph! Well so long as you know then I'm happy to join you Mr. Ó Ruairc"

She shook your hand, though you remind her to just call you Flaithri or Flurry instead. She nods and >>3486912 . Upon hearing that, Vivian pulls out a crystal ball just for that occasion. She gives it to you to watch and review it for the future as a good reminder.

What do you do now ?

>Head home to check up on Aden and Rifana
>Go out for Drinking
>Head to Slave Merchant
>Something else
>>
>>3486933
>Lets find Shield Boio. We need to discuss some way to communicate between eachother, like say using Cellspear.
>>
>>3486933
>Head home to check up on Aden and Rifana
>>
>>3486933
>Head home to check up on Aden and Rifana
On the way, try to explain to Blake that no-one in the party is actually family.
>>
>>3486933
Use the calculator (or a spreadsheet?) function with Elena to sort out some basic future/current budget really quick due to the volume of sales. (as well as what we got leftover for Nick since we really dont wanna realize we spent his money at the last second. In depth accounting can come later.)
>Place reminders about the spear master and meeting Riku in there too as well as a junk reminder scheduled to go off in 5 minutes to see if the Phonespear can ring or send alerts) even while swapped out. Add the date of the wave on the calendar.
>Check up on Aden and Rifana before heading out to deal with Nick's portion of the prize and let Freya discuss with Aden about any special concerns/requests she might have about the shield/armour she's getting. (Probably get measurements too)
>Blake, what person taught you the word Harem King?
>>3487019
Elena did kinda hatch her and do you really want her to go back to harem king mode?
>>
>>3486933
>Head home to check up on Aden and Rifana
>>
>>3487036
>do you really want her to go back to harem king mode?
Of course! We are the hero chosen by the Spear of Lust, are we not?
>>
>>3487019
Supporting.

>>3487036
Better to correct her now then to have her accuse us of cheating every time we have a tender moment with someone else, I suppose.
Though honestly it'd be pretty hilarious if she were to ask us if we're having an affair next time Rifana scolds us for something
>>
>>3486990
>>3487019
>>3487036
>>3487038
>>3486984

You are really relieved on the convenience of the menu that the spear has provided for you. Through it as you walk on the way home after saying goodbye to Erhard, you managed to complete an assortment of different tasks. Such as talking with Elena mid-way to calculate your total budge around being two thousand and eight hundred silvers after receiving the boon from the king. Plus calculating the extra one thousand silvers you got from trading supplies and other saved gear from your adventures so far.

You also mark in the date on the calendar for when the wave was to start, the meeting with Riku, and the notification to find the spear master. Although you first tested the functions of the Spearphone and much to your surprise and joy, they did exactly what you wanted them too. Putting the phone in your spear is probably the best thing you could have done. It was dumb but it ended up being really beneficial.

Eventually as you made it home to the ind, you ultimately figure out who told Blake exactly the word Harem King. It was one of the jealous adventures during your travels when Blake was out playing. Elena and co ended up dealing with them easily, but you also get the feeling that Blake is a dragon. So they would've put two and two together based on dragon lore. The entire thing was complicated and was not worth straightening Blake's perception at the moment.

As you walk inside the inn, you went imminently into where Aden was staying with the others. You first knock through the door since you know for a fact you don't want to open "that trope" above all else. Aden gave you the okay as you open the door to see Aden wearing a long sleeved dress shirt over the covers. Bandages were around her body and you got to see her beautiful silver hair in action. There were some fur on the side of her face as she had very long ears and a fluffy tail.

"...Hello again. This is the first time...you actually saw me out of my armor..."

>Question Aden about being a demi-human
>Respect her space
>Hug Aden and thank her for her hard work
>Introduce Freya instead
>Something else
>>
>>3487121
>Introduce Freya instead
Launching into personal questions (or PDA, for that matter) with an unintroduced stranger in tow is a bad idea.
>>
>>3487121
>Introduce Freya instead
Take care of business first before pleasure.
>>
>>3487121
>Introduce Freya, It would be impolite not to.
(Damn, I was hoping it was one of those bastards at the party so that Elena could get revenge)
>>
>>3487121
> "It's a wonderful sight. Damn shame you need to wear armor in battle."
>Introduce Freya right after
It's obvious she's insecure about her appearance. Since she brought it up, we should at least give her a compliment even though we'll be waiting until later for most of the personal stuff.
>>
>>3487130
>>3487132
>>3487154

>>3487154

You start by complimented her on her appearance which only ended up having a worse effect. It wasn't that you said anything wrong, rather...she look more...ashamed of herself than anything. You decide to try and deflect the mood by introducing Freya to her. Saying

"Right, thanks for that. I'm Freya Roseberg and I'll be working with you guys starting today. I know this might seem a bit sudden but I'm going to need your measurements in order to produce the special chimera armor for you."

Freya tried her best to liven the mood, but the tension was tremendously deep you could cut a knife into it and serve it as pie. Aden slowly nods and accepts Freya's assistance. Rifana slowly pushes everyone out in a polite manner. So that left you and the rest of the gang having to go to your respective rooms.

You slowly eased the tension by playing games and sharing embarrassing the tension between the party. But it was still there in some form despite your best efforts. Eventually, you were in your room looking at the ceiling as Rifana knocks. You let her in as she goes to sit on the bed.

"...Aden wants to speak with you....alone. She felt like she needs to tackle this and that if I was there...She'd end up using me as a clutch and be too scared to speak what's on her mind. ...So I'm respecting her decision and giving you this message. But I believe deep down in my heart it's going to be okay. No matter what Aden is or what burden she had to carry for as long she did....she's still our friend...our party member."

>Choose to go to Aden
>Ignore it for now
>Pet Rifana
>Something else
>>
>>3487230
No reason not to see Aden, but its obvious shes a Beastman.

Lets go chat, and hope nothing 'happens'.

Also, QM can you stop giving us hot girls? I don't think any of us want a harem problem unless you guys wanna go Ottoman Empire on this quest.
>>
>>3487245
>>3487245

I did have a male design saved for Freya if the guys wanted another bro. And I did leave blake open ended cause Blake is a dragon, Blake don't care about genders due to dragon superiority and the fact the canon story has dragons fuck anything and everything. They're one of the few monster races that didn't get engineered yet still manage transformations. But seem plenty of people are embracing the spear of lust.
>>
>>3487245

Also in the actual story, everyone gets a harem or a mate in one form or another. That's just the unfortunate problem that Isekais end up with.
>>
>>3487286
Maybe, who wants another dragon?
>>
>>3487230
>Choose to go to Aden

>>3487245
Well, you could have said something when QM gave us the choice for Freya, but you didn't...
>>
>>3487295
he did, it was in a spoiler.
>>
>>3487307
If you mean >>3486144 , that was me. I can't find any votes for men for Freya.
>>
I just realized that we might be having relationship problems soon. I mean, wouldn't the Freya introduction be pretty awkward?
>>
>>3487230
Frankly, I wasn't expecting a character we'd end up interacting with significantly. I went to sleep right after covering the actually important bits, so eh.

>Choose to go to Aden
We're an offworlder, so this can literally not matter. She's here, she's a good person, she's saving lives. It doesn't have to get more complicated than that if sharing is hard.

>>3487316
oh, whoops. Misread what you said.
>>
>>3487230
>Give Rifana a quick hug and go see what's up with Aden.
>>3487245
I'm personally not going full prude here so we probably aren't going to end up a chaste hero here, but once lewd happens it activates everyone's dinosaur brains, or waifu wars, or generally distracts from the main quest since at no point will anons ever refuse to put their dick into something.

The interesting thing about the harem conflict is that it's a bigger problem for us than them. They might be assuming we're ok with a harem instead of realizing it's a free for all where once you make your attempt you've gotta try and keep in first.
The other is that our love of legends (or bad soap operas our sisters forced us to watch) makes us extremely meta aware of the train wreck we may be starting and need to curtail.

>>3487286
If she can stay a platonic female character or find her own love interest it won't be so bad. Anons hate NTR after all. Not looking forward to juggling romances as that tends to be the most awkward thing ever. She just needs to maintain also having her own interests and not let harem syndrome swallow her personality.
Or once it comes up we treat romance like we treat the stat vomit. We know it's there generally, but this isn't a romance quest so we aren't going into depth about unnecessary stuff as long as we know it's happening.
>>
>>3487375
>>3487345
>>3487295
>>3487230

>>3487130
>>3487132
>>3487136


You decide that you needed to talk with Aden. There was no way around it, but it was more then that. You wanted to go see her as you recall the sorrowful look on her face when you complimented her. So with a quick hug to Rifana, you decide to go to Aden. Once she gave the go head from your knocking, you decide to open the door closely to look at Aden in her mystical glory. She had her back turn, fully exposing her tail. It looked wolf-like but there was something more to it then that. With the way it was shaped...you would think that it was a fox's tail.

"..You want to know do you...you want to know precisely why I was wearing the armor....why despite how close I was to the party...that I never revealed myself to any of you...outside of Rifana and Blake. "

She gripped her right arm rather tightly, keeping her back turned from you. You remembered to keep your space and not touch her like with Melody. However, at the moment you were at a lost for words, causing more tension as Aden starts to grit her teeth.

"Answer me!"

You were shocked to hear her scream her voice. This was not something that she normally do. She was far more timited and respectful of people. Sure she was a little clumsy and had trouble talking but she never once was unapproachable. If Elena could be considered the mom of the party, then Aden would easily be the kind hearted aunt.

"...It's because I....I'm a....I'm a beastman! ...My mother was a demi-human and my father was also a beastman. I lean more towards the beast than human...In order for beastmen to survive in the world when we were originally considered as ferocious monsters...many beastmen managed to do the impossible and tapped in what was buried deep within us....the ability of Therianthropy. It is what allows beastmen to achieve a more human appearance like how sentient monsters are able to transform. It took a long time for many of the countries to treat our kind as more than just faux monsters. But we're still heavily discriminated in some countries....Melrmomac is one of the harshest countries for a beastman to live.

"The Demi-humans on the other hand don't discriminate since we're so close to one another. You could say Demi-humans descend from the beastmen since they too can learn Therianthropy. Although for them, it would be more akin to taking the form of a beast rather than suppressing their beast forms to retain a human appearance. "

con
>>
>>3487475

Aden looked to her right hand as she continue to not turn her face towards you. She was struggling to speak but she wasn't going to let her cowardness stop her anymore.

"..It takes a lot of control to maintain as if we're not tempered we could revert back or lose control, going into a pure primal rage like no other. For someone who are born with it, it would be easy as breathing as they're labeled as pure therianthrope. But even then....those with powerful bloodlines....stronger beasts...will still have a hard time controlling their primal side. ..I carry two powerful bloodlines...I am from a werewolf beastman....as for my mother...she was a Kitsune....her family originated in Siltvelt, strong ties to the Shusaku clan. I'm sure you heard the story of the war between this country and Siltvelt. ...Wit the defeat of the Hakuto clan, the three powers being the Shusaku, Genmu and Aotatsu fought for control of Siltvelt. Between the constant fighting and political struggle and the overall mistreatment over the growing racism, Siltvelt was fractured and the country of Shieldfreeden. Siltvelt survived and eventually became stable. Many of my family members went to Shieldfreeden, my parents included. Ever since I was young...I was made fun of because of my appearance. So as a child...I acted out. I used to cry a lot, my father's brother was often having to go far for political meetings with the Queen and my father was his bodyguard. Leaving me often with my mother. Eventually I got sick of crying and started to lash out. Like the animal kingdom...people obeyed the strong...and even as children I had lots of kids fear me. All except one...he was very kind. He always came to me when I tried to force him away. Eventually I started to like him....we were tremendously close. But...I did something horrible."

Blood started to spill from her hand as she was gripping it rather tightly. Her claws at this point were fully out as she was struggling to hold back her more bestial side.

"..I had one of my tantrums when several of the kids picked on my friend and told me he would never love me. I snapped....and went berserk. I don't remember it fully...but I do know it was him who snapped me out of it....i had his blood on my hands...I..."

con
>>
>>3487375
I can't say I agree with axing romance in the same way as stat vomit. Stat vomit is just an overcomplicated annoyance, but romance can actually be about the characters and have a significant impact on them.
Now, that's not to say that QM should constantly be providing opportunities to bone anything with a hole, nor does there have to be an overabundance of romantic scenes with every girl we meet as a possible romantic partner. It can exist without being the focus of the quest. If handled appropriately, romance shouldn't be a problem.
>>
>>3487545
I feel we're significantly under the margin for most stat juggling to handle.

But for romance, we've mainly established a working relationship with Elena and she's already ready to drop her pants. Adding more romantic interests is a bit awkward for pacing.
>>
>>3487549
I didn't say I wanted more romance as soon as humanly possible. What I said was that romance can work if it's handled appropriately and I don't think we should get rid of it entirely.
>>
>>3487526

She tries to calm herself, preventing from her going into a hyperventilation mess. Her beast-traits begin to recede as she was looking more normal. Well as normal as you first saw her out of her armor.

"He survived...but I was too afraid to go back. So I never returned to the school. My mother home schooled me while during her trips around the country. Otherwise I was left with my grandma and grandpa from my mom's side. They taught me how to control my form. My mom taught me how to love...and my father ultimately taught me how to protect people...rather than hurt them. He told me...these hands of mine....they weren't meant to hurt people...rather than to protect them. So I learned sword styles from him, it was a defensive style that can deflect and parry attacks while punishing the opposition. I even learned how to use a shield, adopting the sword and shield style to better protect others. ...Even though I learned Therianthropy. I wore thick clothing, to hide my appearance. The only other person who saw what I look like...was the Queen herself. She is the one...who ultimately told me that I should come to her army. Unlike Siltvelt...Shieldfreeden has a more positive relationship with Melromarc. Although...with the four cardinal heroes being summoned here...and the shield hero overall treatment...that's been worsening ever since. Before then, I wanted to see the place my father ended up going. ..The same place...where he died. I wanted to know why despite everything did he choose to die rather than running away and coming back to my mom and me.Why exactly he abandoned us for duty ! The queen understood my blight and helped me despite the potential dangers. So I unrolled into the military academy and kept my appearance hidden. Demi-humans are able to join the army, but like everything else...they were badly treated and often unacknowledged for their efforts. I was real good at hiding myself...but since I always worn armor and covered even my face...I was still treated like a freak. A disposable meat shield even when I graduated and was promoted into the military."

You start to wonder in between this story how exactly did she know about the entire thing with her home country despite being in Melrmomac. The implications weren't good at all...yet you ask Aden despite it all.
>>
>>3487568
"..I knew about it because...Shieldfreeden...originally wanted me to join the shield hero's party. But...I ended up running into you. Despite not knowing what I look like...despite knowing nothing about me....you treated me like an equal and asked me to join your party without hesitation. ....Deep down I...was truly happy....so I couldn't say no...despite all the risks. Even though you told someone like me in....even though you all cherished me and made me feel welcomed....I was too scared....to reveal myself...to reveal the truth. I'm scared of my blood....I resented my father despite ended up doing the same as him...And...I hate this country...that took my family away from me...Even so...I'd still protected it's people....I couldn't just abandoned the innocent...or my family's teachings...I'm truly pathetic aren't I?"

>How do you respond
>>
>>3487573

Fuck me I'm a pansy. Ended up tearing a bit from this and I don't think I did as good as a job as I should.
>>
>>3487573
"You will be helping people. Thats what being in a hero's party is for. To be honest if you joined the Shield's party you likely would have ended up burning on the stake with him because of idiots. I plan to help civilians as much as I can, its just my damn skull started hurting and I ended up doing otherwise. Next wave I plan to spend atleast a week fortifying the location, and then we will defend it. You will be there."

By the way, has ANYONE told us what happened to the Bio-Seed after our slaying of the Golem? After we buy a few more eggs from the Slaver and see Shield-Kun to enact 'Judgement' we need to pay the place a visit.
>>
>>3487573
>If you're pathetic, then we're pretty much all in the same boat. You, Rifana, Andros, Melody....okay, not Blake, and I don't know if Viviane's got her own baggage.
>What kind of future are you looking for, Aden? Not just sticking with me saving people, what about after?
>>
>>3487573
"How could I possibly think you're pathetic? You were scared to reveal yourself and scared of your blood, and yet despite that you overcame both those obstacles and did everything in your power to defend me from the chimera. And the fact that you can distinguish between Melromarc as a whole nation and its citizens as innocent individuals demonstrates an amdirable level of maturity. I have nothing but respect for you."
>>
>>3487545
It's not completely axes. It's just that instead of focusing on the exact numbers we get a description of what's going on. It has a better narrative flow.
Eg. When Aden's hp was low we didn't see HP numbers or a description of her str/dex going up in exacting detail. The stat information was technically there, but it wasn't disrupting the flow of the story so that we could do math about what's going on.
The same would apply to if any general romance things happen. Fades to black, jokes at our expense in the morning, or generally not needing to stop and figure every romantic option we should take like we were in a dating sim. We're in a relationship with X girl? We don't need to stop the flow to vote on if we should kiss her on the cheek or wake up in the same bed the next morning. We don't need a sonnet to the softness of her lips but if we spontaneously decide to write a poem about it the turtle can ploop it in.


>>3487573
>No, I'm sorry to say that things like the innocent suffering for the hubris of those in power or hating others whom are different just because they can is nothing new in any world even if mine is a bit more peaceful lately. >Everyone just tries the best they can.
Everything I've seen you do is far more admirable than a bunch of fools being unable to get their head out of thier arses and work together even if it's to save their own hides.

>>3487590
Pretty sure that Nick's gonna start complaining in a few days about what we did.
>>
>>3487626
Oh hell yeah hes going to complain, and we tell him First Bitch forced us into it by threatening a party member. Remember we gave him coin when he had none, the guy kind of owes us. Which leads us to having to give him his stiple that the king oh so neglected and we need to find real ways to communicate because we are his quote, "Caretaker".
>>
>>3487644
Technically she didn't threaten us about it yet, just scared the crap out of Melody and generally try to toy around. She was still maintaining her facade at that point which I why I (and at least one other anon that agreed with my plan) figured that absorbing or claiming ignorance of the seed until it could be examined was a better idea.
The rebuttal I was going to do was pointing out that we were unconscious for a week so we couldn't warn the party and saying anything sooner could have been overheard by the royal spies.
>>
>>3481609
Excerpt
"...Then fight for your own personal interests. Like for glory...or for Melody's sake. Or should I say her real name....Rinora Hawkins. "

She both played to us and threatened her. First Bitch wouldn't have mentioned Melody's real name if she didn't want to make us think she could do something. I guess this could be taken as us becoming inspired to fight, but I read it as a threat.

We should own up to the issue, because is not then how are we different from the other bastards? Admit to your mistakes and people will learn to trust us as the forthright Mad Spearman, and maybe not the scheming Anons who are looking for ways to kill an entire nation of assholes.
>>
>>3487590
>>3487597
>>3487604
>>3487626

You heard her entire story so far and instantly you came to the conclusion that practically your entire party has seriously issues. From Elena and her family, to Melody's nuke level of suffering and problem. Currently it is a tied for third between Andros and Rifana, but Aden is clearly second place on the most messed up backstory awards. The fact that despite her baggage, you found it positively admirable that Aden would still protect the people and shield you and the party from harm. She really is a caring person when she didn't have any reason to. Especially with her powerful bloodlines clashing within her, the wolf and the fox. It was like the fox and the hound, only metaphorically and...darker....much darker.

Still, you decide to comfort with a long list of phrases. It took you a while to think up all of them, but you had time to do so by listening to Aden's story. For all you know Vivian could be some secret princess of a bastard with how much of a magnet you are for a damaged party members. However, it only just gives you more reason to fight for this world. If nothing else, you wanted to give the happy ending that you strongly believes your party and friends deserve.

"..I'm not strong...I'm a coward who couldn't willing tap into her power. Had I did...I could have stopped the Bio Seed from almost killing you back in the temple. Maybe then....Myne wouldn't have the leverage to use you as a barging chip for the seed...my cowardness and ...resentment for my dad kept me from truly doing what I should've done. With the chimera...I just didn't want to repeat that mistake. ..I don't want the man who accepted me to die...as well as my friends..or the people."

She started to sob from your words. It was a different kind as your words did manage to reach her heart. You even took it one step further to hug her from behind. She could only sob as she finally let out the months among months of build up that she endured. You can feel the tension finally disappearing as you accepted what she calls herself a monster and fully embraced Aden. It didn't matter she came from another country. She was your trusted shield and she wouldn't stop protecting you.

Eventually she stops crying, wiping the tears from her eyes. She finally turns to face you. Directly looking at her you as her form was in full view. She looked like a proper demi-human with some whiskers on her face. A proper mix between wolf and fox.

"...Is it alright that I stay in your party? I want to stop the waves...and protect the people in my father's place. Then after the threat is over...I want to return home...and make up with my mom and apologize to her until I can't do so no more."

What do you do now?

>Pet Aden and tell her it'll be okay
>Leave her be after helping her to bed
>Something else
>>
>>3487714

And there it is. We finally learned what happened to the seed. Kept the facade but it's clear she strong armed the party choosing to save you from possible death over directly taking the seed.
>>
>>3487714
>Remind her that WE asked her to join the party. That still stands, and nothing she's revealed changes that. She doesn't need permission to save people.
>>
>>3487714
Well I guess I was right. She's an idiot, but she has what is essentially a nuclear bomb in her possession that will just adapt to any slave seal you put on it.

I suggest either regicide or telling the Shadows to steal it from her. No army from another nation is gonna kill the plant monster if someone cultivated it to be a death machine.
>>
>>3487714
>Pet Aden and tell her it'll be okay
Of course she can stick around. We asked her to join and she's done a fantastic job since.
>>
>>3487743
+1 though. Honestly if they didn't do that we'd be dead. We just need to fix an error that occurred.
>>
>>3487714
Pet her head and tell her “if you leave the party now you’ll miss the cool armor you are getting.”
>>
>>3487743
Supporting but more emphasis on the fact that everything has been entirely her own decision.
>>
>>3487743
>>3487760
>>3487763
>>3487774

You placed your hand on Aden's head, reassuring her that she didn't your permission to continue being apart of the team. After all it was you who asked her first. Added in with the promise of getting cool equipment and compliments for her hard work, she could only sniff as she was about to cry again. Guess somethings are really hard to break out of. then again, she was holding back tears since she was 6 and that was 20 years ago so it was only to be expected.

As you're petting her, you notice something at the door. You saw an eye was looking through the keyhole. You use your spear skill to open the door quickly with a spearkey to reveal the party as they're stumbling down. Blake, Vivian, and Freya ended up falling down while Andros pretends he didn't see anything. Melody was whistling, also trying to pretend she wasn't listening in on the conversation with her head turn. Even Elena and Rifana was there as well.

There was no mistaking it. Everyone was worried about Aden and couldn't exactly get it out of their head. You saw Rifana turning her head in embarrassment. She alongside Elena clearly tried to stop them, but was convinced to follow with the snooping. Judging from Blake's body gesture that had they not gotten to a compromise, Blake would've used a fireball to burn the walls down.

There was no words needed as their expressions were enough. The entire gang ran towards Aden, getting her involved with a group hug. They all shared the same feelings that you had. They all didn't want to lose Aden and wanted to continue journeying together. Freya meanwhile stood back, scratching the side of her nose as she was the odd duckling out. However, both you and Blake beckoned her into the group hug. Though Blake was far more pushy as they use their dragon tail to pull Freya over. Aden ended up closing her eyes and smiling, some tears coming out. But it was fine, she was truly at peace and comfortable with her image. At least now there was going to be a peaceful night as it always should be.

>How do you spend your first week?
>>
>>3487836
Ask shadows on update on bioseed
Checkout the dragon mountain. Maybe theres dragon ores or nesting material that could be useful for Blake
Magicky stones and tomes
>>
>>3487836
> Get taught some actual spear-wielding technique from Rojeel.
> Start traveling to the town where the other spear master lives. Focus on gaining experience and resources on the way if that can be done efficiently along the path at our current level.
> Make an effort to contact one of the people who can destroy Melody's slave crest. Ask the shadows for help and ask who among the remover candidates would be most likely to cooperate.
>>
>>3487836
Priority should probably vary depending upon distance due to the misc meetings we have to do.
>If our life was used as blackmail for the seed then that's probably a bad sign. Go check out the village with the seed or get info on what's happening. Aden needs her new gear though so we might need to collaborate with Nick?
>We have to go find whatever that thread is for Blake's clothes.
>Teach Blake basics about magic if we have to in order to help with the item creation. She's Rifa's new classmate/sister during study time.
>Try to puzzle out how to setup a jewel/charm with an invisibility/intangibility enchantment and another with a teleport enchantment with vivian. Somebody might try to capture Blake like we fear might be done to Rifa, so if teleporting back to safety is blocked somehow, we can trick them into thinking they managed to teleport anyway. (a bit torn on this since while invisibility is low tier in games, in myths invisibility tends to be high tier epic equipment from gods. Modern knowledge of basic physics/optics or just doing really good camouflage might be a good workaround)
>Get at least the first level uncap items (plus a few spare) ready since I think we should powerlevel a little next week. Learn the process so that we don't get interrupted long if something stupid happens like us being 1 level into our grinding and having to turn around and grab lv cap items or do the process.
>Lesson on world war 1? I'm getting the sinking feeling that this world is going to end up doing something similar within the century.
>General hunting/training so that Freyja fits in

I'm unsure about placement for paying Nick and i'm currently too lazy to see when the first open time for spear training is but if that's a go, then I'm all for >>3487908

>Blake can be Freya's assistant if she happens to find it fun and is decent at maintaining temperature. A dragon being able to make their own treasure seems like a nice idea. Not sure why I never heard of a goldsmithing dragon before.

Don't have to do all of these ideas. Think of it more as a todo list and the party cuts out whatever has the least priority?
>>
>>3487922

The money has been given to nick before you guys left the castle. Filo is safe
>>
>>3487900
>>3487908
>>3487922

Considering that it was going to take some time, you figure that you would spend the next few days in castle town maximizing your schedule. While you went off to get spear-wielding training from Rojeel, you had Blake learn magic from Vivian alongside Rifana. Although, it seems like Blake was picking up on magic far easier than either you or Rifana did. Perhaps it was just dragon's instincts or his superior monster physiology. Either way, the magic teaching more served to try and teach Blake actual tactics and using their brain rather than relying solely on instincts....much to Blake's annoyance. You'll make up the classes you're missing at some point but for right now your spear training takes priority.

Spear training on the other hand gives you quite the understanding between you and your weapon. You start to learn all the strengths and weaknesses of the spear that you yourself did not put together. Reading about it is one thing, actually feeling it through experience was a whole another thing. You bouts with Rojeel bared for a very valuable harvest as you start to learn the proper way to truly use a spear.

In between spear training, you manage to eventually Blake suited up with a rather jazzed up Gothic Lolita dress which can change to a more form fitting fighting mode when Blake need more maneuverability and flexibility.Getting the necessary supplies was quite the chore. Especially considering you didn't want to just put a slave crest on Blake. If anything, you put anti-thief/branding tactics on Blake to counteract such things. Obtaining mana ore to make the necessary jeweled charm was quite the resource eater. Not to mention having Blake be required to make the mana thread in addition to make sure the transformation clothing work properly was also a chore for both you and Blake. Yet you did it anyway for Blake's well being.

At the very least with those enchantments given to Blake, it was safe to say that Blake was positively protected from possible kidnapping or getting lost for example. Blake seems to enjoy the gifts, perhaps too well as they been playing with the camouflage function for shits and giggles. Elena had to reprehend poor Blake about the importance of their jeweled charms.

Instead you had them earn their keep by helping with Freya with crafting and refining materials and anything else the smith needed. There was something ironic about a dragon being able to make their own treasure. Still it gave Blake something to do and bonded with Freya as a result while other members of your party do their necessary training methods and updates to their gear.

con
>>
>>3487960

During the week, you also made calls to the shadows on the update about the seed. You really want to check up on the seed yourself, but you just had to trust in Nick as they were taking care of dealing with the issue. As for finding contact with one of the people who can destroy the slave crest, it seem that the alchemist was located elsewhere. It was going to take the shadows some time to go to said alchemist, but at the very least it was a start.

The blacksmith kept to his word and managed to complete the armor by the end of the week. So now Aden was not only fitted with the new Chimera Armor but also had the Chimera Shield and a better sword. Erhand was regrettably unable to complete the intangible weapons yet, his work was put mainly on the armor and shield for you. You didn't press him on about it since this order was already stretching him thin and yet he made such a masterpiece for you.

With the week about to come to a close, you decide to head to the dragon mountain first. It was closer to the meeting spot you have with Riku as well as possibly where the town where the spear master lives. Parts of you really want to go back to the village but it was on the other side and you spent most of your time in castle town completing your check list and gaining resources to make up for the costs it put into getting Blake pimped out as the cool kids would say.

So you all got on the carriage driven by...Blake of all people as you see them transformed into a large dragon. Well large to you anyway, it was after all a young dragon. That was already bigger than any Tyrera you seen. Even the flying dragons would come short to Blake, but most wouldn't really notice at first glance considering Blake shared many traits with flying dragons. So to the public they would merely think you were just a dragon rider or more officially a Dragon Knight using their dragon to pull the cart rather than the master of a purebred dragon.

For the record, Blake was....overwhelmingly fast even for flying dragon and wyverns standards. You kept Blake from actually trying to fly the cart, but you and Elena had to keep Blake's speed in moderation. Especially when it ended up giving everyone in the party motion sickness. Eventually at a more casual pace, you would make it to the Dragon's Mountain. As you make your way to the village, you would see quite the epidemic going around.

It looks as if people were hit with some sort of plague. This mining village has seen better days as you travel inside.

>What do you do ?
>>
>>3487977
>Have a look at the sick and absorb any discharges to see if the spear can identify them.

>Go to the mayor and ask what's happened.

We can booze spray the dead to disinfect stuff quick, then apply salt spray for more thorough cleansing.
>>
>>3487977
>Preface with the disclaimer that our world works on different physics/whatever so any important detail in this knowledge could be entirely wrong or magic/levels could enhance the disease in a way that makes the things we mention useless.
>Crash course germ theory to the party and concepts like quarantine protocols and paths of infection.
>Mention the Columbian Exchange (90% of the americas die of smallpox within a few years, a whole ton of people die in europe too but that's small time compared to the black plague) and hypothesize that the spear either protects against that happening or heroes have been summoned for so long that this isn't a problem. Either way it makes us the one with the least risk for investigating
>Full hazmat gear is probably too much to try to make and we're already in the infection zone. See if we can work out some face masks to cover our nose/mouth that aren't creepy by cultural standards. They wont stop misama completely, but it'll at least be more difficult if the vector is airborne instead of some magical type of air. Gloves for everyone. Disinfect whatever rooms we're staying in and be mindful of the food/water. (magical baths/showers?) Use the supplies we came in with if possible.
>Steam spear at the hotttest temperature we can safely manage is probably gonna be great for disinfecting rooms since that's how surgery tools get disinfected.
>(If they look at us like we're some sort of sage at the barrage of knowledge) point out that this is basic knowledge in our world that a person should know by the time they're Vivian's age. We are not an expert doctor, so do not treat us like one. For all we know there's some magical plant in the mountain that cures this disease and makes the stuff we said before useless.

> Go to the mayor's office, try to find out about the disease.and if possible figure out it's attack vector so that quarantine locations or hospital camps don't make everything worse.
This is probably where we learn about the giant dragon corpse.
>>
>>3488413
>And temp invite a sick person into the party so that we can examine whatever their status window says.
If we figure out the plague is magical it might trigger our meta knowledge about how giant magical curses usually are caused by somebody doing something to deserve it
Not sure how much of this is caused by my own meta knowledge
[./spoiler]
>>
>>3487990

You start to look look around with the rest of the party. It seems that many people were affected by some sort of plague. This oddly enough reminds you of the epidemic in old historian history books back in your world. Most noticeably the black plague. With the legendary spear, you manage to identify the cause as some sort of decaying based magic. However...it seem more advance then just that as it lingers with great malice within.

The villagers lead your party to where the deceased were last place as you use your spear to disinfect and cleansed the area. Aden would help carry those who couldn't move back into the hospital alongside Andros and Freya. Melody, Vivian and Elena worked on using their combine healing powers to treat the sick. Blake on the other hand was looking directly at the mountain. Their eyes were staring at it rather intensely as the dragon's pupils suddenly appeared. After you finish doing exactly it of cleansing the area and purifying the ground did you

"...Master Flaithrí...This land is crying. Blake can hear the voices of the land. It's echoing rather hard...resentment...pain...sorrow...regrets...Blake can feel all of them. But the source is coming directly around that mountain. Blake is having some trouble understanding it fully....but Blake knows this. It was a human that did this..."

You go to reassure Blake that you and the rest of the party are going to take care of this. The sound in Blake's voice was much more serious. In the two months and few weeks you had bought Blake, you always knew them to be a rather mischievously playful and active free-spirit. They acted completely on the moment as they were impulsive and spontaneous as a dragon should be. Blake acted on instincts and lived in the moment rather than think these through. It was expected since Blake as still a child at heart...but they were a pure and kind hearted child. And although Blake didn't put much thought into things, Blake did understand things that Blake shouldn't by all means grasp it. Although Blake was so young, there was a growing cesspool of wisdom in the dragon. Perhaps it's due to the the fact that at the top of the monster food chain, Blake can communicate with nature itself. So these words..might not fully coming from Blake alone but the land that you stand. You decide to check it out the source of the problem.

>Who do you take with you to the mountains aside from Blake?

>Aden
>Rifana
>Elena
>Vivian
>Melody
>Andros
>Freya
>Go it with just Blake
>>
>>3488413
>>3488425

addressing this as well

During the short time you were in the village, you spent your time looking rather deep into the problems set deep within the village. You also talked to your party about the germ theory and quarantine which oddly enough many knew of such things. It wasn't to the extend that modern science of your world has done but there was certainly a better understanding than you gave credit. Not all that surprising given the level of technology and magic that you find. But the knowledge came most especially from the noble side of things. So Elena, Vivian, Andros and Melody especially knew of these things. But for Vivian you can assume that it was she came from the most advanced of the seven kingdoms.

Steam Spear helped immensely with removing the infection as you went to all the places you can and managed to do the deed. This travels lead you to the acting village chief's office with your party. In summation, you learn that there was once a dragon that live on these lands, causing terror to the people and ruling the monsters with a vicious intent to overrun the entire region. That is until one day the people's wishes and prayers was received by a man and his party. He was holding a magic sword and step forth to oppose the source of the threat. It was a long and hard fought battle, but the dragon was slain and peace return to the town as adventuers eventually came to see the dragon and brought wealth to the village. That is until recently, a month after the dragon was killed that a strange plague came in and poisoned the land. Causing many adventures to suffer, some even lost their lives while it ultimately came to spread to the village. Several have died and not even the village chief was spared from this as he recently died. Currently there was someone heading to the mountains to take care of the threat. As you finish listening to this...you see something strange happen with Blake. Their claws sharpen and their teeth soon follows, goosebumps formed around the skin as even their pigtails start to spike up as more of their dragon traits began to appear.

{green]"...liar......you liars...YOU LIAR!!!"[/green]

Blake screamed with rage. Tears pouring down from their eyes to show the sorrow that they were feeling. Before anyone of you could ask Blake what they mean, Blake jumps out the window and moves at lighting fast speeds straight towards the mountain.
>>
>>3488468
>>Aden
>>Rifana
>>Vivian
>>Melody
>>Andros

Elena and Freya should go snooping around for the cause of the malice in the village. Elena because cynicism, Freya because she knows how to not get ganked.
>>
>>3488496
a MONTH? Jesus, did he kill the bastard at level 10 or something?
>>
>>3488510

Riku power leveled like crazy...however because of that... His sword skills are way less than they should actually be.
>>
>>3488510
In the original story he powerleveled (plus depending upon how exp works with parties he might get a boost from soloing all the time) and uses DODGE tactics.His world also has VR games so he might have a higher base skill at using swords.
>>
>>3488468

My math is wrong, it's actually a month and several weeks. And Riku's kill would be three weeks ago.
>>
Strange, thought I would've gotten more choices for party set up.

>>3488518

Elaborating on this. >>3488519 is right that Riku gets a bigger boost fighting solo AND has better base strats and skill at swords, but his swordsmanship is barbaric and unrefined, hence why I said it's not as good as someone who is in the high 40s-low 50s
>>
>>3488615
I somehow missed the voting prompt, so I’d actually been waiting for new posts.
I saw bring everyone. Not gonna leave a little girl all alone on plague mountain.
>>
>>3488643
I say* bring everyone.
>>
>>3488506
>>3488643

Seeing Blake run out the way they did reassures your suspicion that something wasn't right about this village. So in order to investigate it further, you left it to Elena and Freya to find out. Thus, you embark the journey to go through the Dragon's mountain with Aden, Rifana, Vivian, Andros and Melody.

Following suit with your anti-contamination plan, you had everyone cover themselves accordingly and Melody purifying the way through the mountains. In retrospect, you probably wished you had the viper spear at full power. Given the poisonous atmosphere, it would've made this more of a cake walk. Still, with the spear you have at the moment it was helping with the party's poison resistance. All you could really do is trek through the mountain carefully, fighting savage monsters along the way towards finding Blake.

Since they were still in your party, you could easily tell where exactly they were going. It seems that Blake was heading directly to the lion's den though dragon would be better for this analogy. The poison isn't probably bothering Blake because of obvious reason. Still, you make great yet cautious haste to reach where Blake was. Eventually you would find yourself exactly at the Dragon's den. The sight of it was absolutely horrible to you as you look around.

The surrounded area looked like a corrupted wasteland as the air was finally returning to normal. But previously it was filled with poisonous gases and the ground was still tainted and scarred. At the top you saw the dragon's corpse, a fallen Tanuki girl, a distraught Nick and what appears to be a giant bird like creature currently in a standoff with...Blake?!?! From what you could see, Blake was standing on one of the rock pillars looking down on the giant bird with great anger.

"...First you made this dragon suffer.....then you pillage and disgrace the corpse...that's getting Blake rather pissed at you. Worst of all....this thing has the nerve to attack Blake? Blake doesn't understand...but Blake knows that Blake doesn't like big bird. And....Blake won't forgive any of you!"

You manage to hear Blake say those words as Blake charges forward to attack the giant bird with dragon claws lash out. The giant bird was oddly enough holding it's own rather well against Blake. Granted Blake hasn't fully transformed yet. But even in human form, Blake was nothing short of a real monster. The two continue their fierce clash of fire vs wind as the battlefield withstood their onslaught. Nick on the other hand was protecting what you can now make out as an unconscious Raphtilia who was badly injured. She look to be rather pale with multiple spots on her. Quite possibly she had been cursed but you think it might have to do with the zombified dragon. So how do you respond?

>Ask Nick what's going on?
>Support Blake
>Stop Blake from Fighting
>Something else
>>
>>3488706
>Blake, on my command restrain yourself! These are not the ones who killed your Kin! Everyone else, take out the Undead!

Also we should put two and two together that the Dragon was the Sword's kill.
>>
>>3488706
So is the dragon a zombie that is currently active and needs to be worried about? If it's not,
> Chained Beast Spear + Spear Forest to stop the fighting
I would try to stop Blake alone, but I get the felling that the bird isn't going to stop unless forced.
>>
>>3488762
We will fight with the holy blade and dumping the holy water on top of the beast
>>
>>3488706
>Support Blake
>>
>>3488762
Too formal for papa Florian imo.
>>3488706
>>3488706
>>3488774
Support stopping the fight. There’s a sentence missing saying that the corpse is still moving there so I’m going with the zombie already being defeated by now or not yet being active


>>3488706
Melody will cure Ralph so we ask what the hell happened
>>
>>3488811

Your right, i thought I added that the zombie dragon was already defeated. This is taking place after Filo escaped from the beast in the canon story.

Anyway...

>>3488783
>>3488774
>>3488762

Desperately you try to command Blake to stop, believing that it was not them that brought this dragon to unspeakable state that it was in. Blake on the other hand was too angry to listen. Seeing the dragon reduced to a undead corpse that was beaten and battened like someone desecrate the corpse. Of course seeing such a sight would make anyone who has a shred of kindness and decency upset. So for Blake this was a hundred if not a thousand times worse.

The giant owl like bird was fighting relentlessly as Blake was beginning to overpower it after a very long and drawn outfight. With one strike, Blake pushed it back from themselves, preparing to finish this by gathering a large amount of mana into their right hand. This was starting to really get out of hand. So with the flick of your spear, you quickly change it to that of the chained beast spear.

"High Quick!"

"Dragon Rush!"

Both adversaries shouted as they were preparing to finish the other off. Fortunately for you, you manage to get off spear forest in the nick of time. It served as a wall between the flashing shooting stars that were Blake and the giant bird, forcing them to back off. But for added insurance, each of the chains manage to wrap around both parties and restrain them accordingly.

"The hell is going on ! What did you attack and restrain Filo!"

Nick was rightfully upset considering that from his perspective it looked like you planned to jump him while he was down. However, you manage to calm Nick down by explaining at Blake was a dragon, to be more specific a purebreed dragon and that they were only lashing out because they thought you killed the dragon. In response, Nick explains to you that the giant bird which was now that of a cute blond haired child was a Filolial, more specifically a Filolial Queen.

From your two conversing, it seem like Filo didn't like dragons and Blake wasn't exactly fond of Filo either. You all turn to Elena who ultimately ended up explaining that Dragons are predator creatures which was the same for wild Filolial. It seems there was a long war back in the day between the dragons and the Fiolials, so as a result their predator instincts carried over this long grudge between the two species. This was overwhelming for you since it positively sound like such a hassle, but this world was anything but normal in your eyes.

con
>>
>>3488837

Being restrained had a negative effect on Blake as they ended up transforming into a dragon to try and break free. That action made it easier for Nick to believe you, but the final nail on the coffin was the fact that Melody was using her healing magic to help Raphtalia. Elena and co on the other hand talk to Blake, trying to get them to calm down which ultimately works as they revert back to human form and begin to sob silently.

You undo the chains as Nick begin to explain what has happened. It seem that he came to the village after hearing about the epidemic and wanted to take care of the problem thinking that Riku was irresponsible in taking care of the corpse by thinking that it would disappear on it's own. Naturally he took care of healing the villagers and treating the sick.

But it wasn't going to solve the problem for good, so he and his party set out to tackle the threat head on. The original plan was to do clean up of the corpse, but it seem to have come back to life and attack them. Filo was swallowed up by the beast due to Nickolas's hesitation and order for retreat and regroup from Filo. In essence you gathered Filo attacked first because of her instincts as it was funny in a way how the two were alike despite being antagonistic to one another.

What interest you the most was the next chapter. Nick then explain that something in him snapped and he found himself consumed with rage. The way he described it makes you think back to the duel where you were being consumed by lust and ultimately awakened the curse series. It sound like Nick has just recently done with this endeavor. As backlash for being consumed by his wrathful flames, Raphtalia was hit with them in her attempt to snap him out of it. Thus explaining the poor shape she was in, Melody chipped in saying that Raphtalia was deeply hurt which they treated but the curse was still lingering. They needed to treat her with holy water, the purist one they can find...which was unfortunately back at castle town. Rifana on the other hand run off from the sight of Raph who was slowly opening her eyes as she mumbles Rifa-chan.... You had Andros and Elena go after her while the rest of the party looked after the fallen and took to cleaning up the corpse.

You slowly look back to Blake.

>How do you respond?

>Give Blake some space
>Comfort Blake
>Something else
>>
>>3488867
>Comfort Blake
>>
>>3488867

>"Since it's both our beasts that seem to have gotten unruly, we should teach them a lesson."

Use the chain ability to restrain Blake. After that switch to the Dragon Spear and show him who's the proper master.
>>
>>3488867
>Comfort Blake

>>3488879
Jesus, dude, Blake might be a dragon but they're still sentient.
>>
Please if you can, also write in your dialogue
>>
>>3488882
The aim is not to kill them. It's obvious they both have gone insane and we need to separate them. We have already tried to talk with reason and everyone else has talked to his emotions.

He is right now an unruly child thinking with his gut instead of his head. As his parent, we need to teach him a lesson to not be controlled by instincts.
>>
>>3488867
Blake seems to be doing a priestess for the dead thing atm. I say run with it and get details on the dragon’s side of the story.
Probably find out how dragon inheritance works and or any funerary rights.
Explore its cave and notice children’s toys left behind.
It’s daughter WILL be getting her fathers treasure and the village is going to be properly atoning unless they seriously want to have the threat of an extremely pissed off dragon that is only getting stronger hanging over their heads. At work so I can’t reference a legend for that but you guys are clever.

Once the village stuff is taken care of we can invite nick to the party and portal spear to the town if he doesn’t know about porting already and pick up our holy water.
>>
>>3488913
They've already been separated.
>>
>>3488914
And if they try to argue against reparations or the being in the wrong we point out that they are bandits with no right to object after their crimes.
>>
>>3488919
Goddamnit I can't read. I thought we were going to have a fight. Well then say,
"None of these people killed him Blake. If there's anything you wish for us to do for your Kin say so."
>>
>>3488876
>>3488882
>>3488914
>>3488920
>>3488938

You comfort Blake, believing that they understood something that the party of both sides did not. Then you remember that Blake earlier said that they could listen to the voices of nature. They could hear all the animals, all the plants, even the ground that they walked upon. So...by all accounts, Blake was able to also hear the cries and echos of the fallen as well. So you went to ease Blake of their pain while asking them to tell their side of the story.

"...They're lying....This dragon...it wasn't trying to destroy their village or overrun the region with monsters...It's name was Gaelion."

You watch with concern as Blake slowly move themselves to the coprse. There was tears running through their eyes as they were truly in pain. Yet they only place their left hand against the corpse before continuing with the story.

" Gaelion wasn't a mighty dragon...or the strongest. But he was kind...the monsters respected him despite being the weakest compared to...the other dragon emperors....He protected the region and controlled the population of monsters....Like a king. Gaelion never saw himself as such...he just wanted peace after the dragon's festival....a fight over who was to be the next emperor after the original one was defeated...by a giant Filolial Queen. It's fuzzy....but Blake can see the memories of Gaelion. His soul still lingers...and the body remembers the experience...everything that Gaelion had accumulated in his life. So Blake knows he's not lying. The soul never lie! To lie and deceive...it isn't how dragons do thing."

There was growing anger in her words, yet you could only place her hand on Blake's shoulder. You didn't say anything but Blake could gather you wanted them to finish the story while you would be there to comfort them.

"...Resided in lands near humans, Gaelion made sure to rarely interact with them in the region he called his home. Occasionally he had to fight off bandits and adventurers but Gaelion won all those times he had to fight! Gaelion was strong after all! It was tiring for Gaelion but Gaelion never hated them, only pity them for they were foolish and greedy. Gaelion protected the region and the monsters and animals respected Gaelion as their emperor. They didn't attack the human villages in the region and kept themselves from interacting if they could avoid it. Words weren't needed to understand Gaelion's intent. Gaelion was growing more and more distrusting of humans over the years...but Gaelion still refused to attack them. They were not worth the effort. Gaelion truly believed that."
>>
>>3489168

"...One day a demi-human carriage was attacked by bandits. It was close to his mountain as he was awakening from a long slumber. Many Demi-Human merchants were killed, but still Gaelion was going to see what was happen.....that's when Gaelion met a demi-human woman. She was blooded and beaten and her life was fading fast. Yet she held enough strength to make it to the mountain and pleaded with Gaelion... Gaelion listen to her, he was hesitant but still he listened. She wanted someone, anyone...to protect her baby girl. Her vision was fading, but deep down Gaelion knew that she knew that he was a dragon. Yet she didn't care...she wanted to protect her child. That was the only thing that kept her going despite the fact she should have already died. Gaelion accepted the woman's dying wish and listen to her name the child...Wyndia. So, Gaelion raised Wyndia in the mountains with the other monsters and children he had. Although she was part human, she was loved by the monsters and Gaelion. She was pure, she was kind, she....healed the monsters and Galeion of their suffering. To Galeion, she was like a daughter to him. Someone to light the way to his worn out heart and soul. Galeion...held a lot of regrets in life. Including his own hesitation and resentment of humans...had he not have them...he could've found the bandits earlier...save the demi-humans and made sure Wyndia had a family still. But Glaeion pretended to be ignorant and not get involved. That act of sloth ended up his biggest mistake. Although Glaeion never spoke it, Wyndia loved him all the same. Glaeion believed that Wyndia already knew of his pain but did not judge him accordingly. Glaeion wanted to apologize to Wyndia...Glaeion wanted to make Wyndia happy above all else. "

Blake took a moment to take a breath. Their wings and tail started to sprout suddenly. Claws sharpened and dragon teeth gritted as you sense anger and hate in poor Blake.

" Although Gaelion did so much...although Galeion wanted peace....although Galeion cared for all life...even humans.....they killed him in cold blood! A human with a sword used anti-monster slaying powers, especially that of a dragon. It weakened Galeion as unlike the bandits and countless others...Gaelion couldn't destroy them in a single breath attack or stroke of his claws. Over time Gaelion continued to get weaker and weaker. If Gaelion had run away...there was no doubt that Gaelion would've survived to live to tell the tale....but Wyndia was in the cave back home. It was the worst kind of timing as Gaelion had previously left Wyndia while he went on his weekly patrol and stroll. Though she had monsters there to protect her....there was no doubt that Gaelion believed they would've head to the cave and killed them. The monsters were smart..they know how to survive...but Wyndia...wyndia was still a young child. She would've been unable to survive on her own. "
>>
>>3489223

"Believing that she would be killed if discovered....A dragon would find the act of running to be cowardly and insult to their pride. But even dragons knew when to run. Yet Gaelion...he overcame his instincts and fought....a father's love for their child. It's what gave him the strength to fight to the end. His dying thoughts....they all should so much regret. He was unable to communicate with the boy with the sword despite knowing human languages....his own hesitation kept him from opening up to him. Galeion regretted...not trying to understand and trust the sword wielder... to trust him to listen to Galeion's final words. Galeion wonder why he was being killed. ....Why Gaelion had to die...where did Gaelion go wrong with his life? What crime did Gaelion did to deserve this?! Had he been an evil or selfish dragon it would be one thing...but...Gaelion did so much for the region. Both for monsters and the humans! But deep down Gaelion knew...it's because he was a dragon...be cause he was considered strong. People...fear the strong...those who are strong are always persecuted...especially by those that wanted everything they had. Gaelion didn't hate the boy with the sword....but at the same time...he couldn't believe in him. Gaelion...wouldn't open up to someone who was cold...distant from the world...as if he was just only cared about solitude...and real strength. Even Gaelion could tell...there was sadness for his eyes...Gaelion couldn't tell why he was sad. Was he pitying Gaelion? Or was he simply mocking the dragon? Gaelion succumbed to his despair....wishing for someone to save him....someone...to save Wyndia. So...with the last of his strength...his soul continue to linger to his body. It endured it all...his mind slowly disappeared...driven only by one desire...revenge. Revenge for everything....that is why...Gaelion's body came back to life. It's why....Gaelion ended up like this...twisted into a monster...unable to be with it's family....unable to rest....ALL BECAUSE OF HUMANS!"

Everyone was undoubtedly silent through the entire thing. Given how beastmen and demi-humans were treated, it wasn't surprise that monsters would also experience the same treatment. This country clearly has a tradition of Human Absolutism. Yet...this was crueler among words. For a child who wasn't even two months old yet to experience and feel all of these things. It was too much.

>How do you respond?
>>
>>3489313

Forgot one more.

"...Is this going to be Blake's fate too? To one day be hunted down....to be killed in cold blood...to be defiled and used merely for sport...all while surrounded by greedy...vile humans...Blake hates this...Blake can't understand this.....Master......What is Blake truly to you?"
>>
>>3489338
"You are my daughter. Their death will be swift."

Let's have the Lust spear going off eh? At this point we're pretty pist off and ready to give this nation a big fuck you. Maybe go teach Sword boy a lesson in not killing every fucking thing that's not human.
>>
>>3489338
HUG MODE ENGAGED.
MUST HUG DAUGHTERU.
>>
>>3489338
> Hug her.
"You're my Wyndia."
>>
>>3489338
"We are family, everyone in the party is. We won't let this go unpunished but understand that as much as we want to avenge his death we should follow his example and not go the violent route. We must make everyone understand." Oh and kneel down amd hug blake.
>>
>>3489313
>Pick up and hug Blake (pretty sure any words we say will fuck this up or not ring true. And yes there are manly tears streaming.)
> Walk towards the cave to see if Wyndia is still alive (it was one of his last wishes and children tend to last longer than adults since adults get stupid ideas that get themselves killed in the wilderness)

>>3489338
You sonovabitch

Can we put a monument/epitaph to this stupidity down in the town (with inscriptions and maybe murals?) via architecture spear later? I get the feeling these guys are going to keep digging their grave and so we might as remind all of their descendants that any harm that comes to them from monsters is because their ancestors cared less for them than a few gold coins.
>>
>>3489455

>>3489417
>>3489432
>>3489438

Without question, without hesitation or doubt, you decide to imminently hug Blake. You hug Blake closely and you made sure to never let go. Blake eyes widen by this, their pupils still slit like an enraged dragon. But they slowly start to return to normal...Blake's eyes began to tear up. It wasn't long until they started to cry. Blake cried deeply and loudly while holding against your neck. Words weren't needed to tell just how much she means to you. You wanted to protect her. Even the spear of lust couldn't take hold of your strong desire to comfort and care for Blake. The strength of your will has overpowered the murderous intentions of the spear....going for love instead of violence.

"...We'll talk later Flaithrí. I need to go make sure Raphtalia is alright and Filo is pretty much spent. ...For now, I think it would be best if I leave Gaelion's funeral to you."

With that Nickolas starts to leave. A glowing green light emitted from his shield. It resonated immensely to Blake as the zombified dragon was...being purified. You get the feeling while Blake was talking, Nick was setting something up just in case. And now it was the time for it to activate. No longer were you looking at the twisted and rotten decay of a once strong and kind dragon. Rather..you was seeing Gaelion as he originally was. A tired dragon that truly loved his family. There was bits of zombie pieces to feed into the spear though.

After Blake let it all out and was eventually done crying. You decide to piggy back them up to the cave. The others understood what your intention was and decide to follow slowly while giving you and Blake some space. You begin to tell her the true meaning of family. That Blake were your Wyndia, and that she never had to doubt Blake's place on the team. Blake has a home, and a family and they'll protect Blake forever. The deeds that were done weren't going to be forgiven and justice will be delivered. However, you make note to remind Blake to be like Gaelion. To follow his example and not give into violence. You never said Blake has to forgive them...but Blake didn't have to be what the village would make their kind out to be. ...Terrifying creatures of pure malice and destruction. Blake wraps their arms around your neck.

"...Blake was happy when we were first going to the dragon's mountain. Blake...wanted to meet with him. To talk to Gaelion. ...Blake can't explain it...but Blake feels...close to Gaelion for some reason. Even before this...Blake just wanted...another dragon to talk to...to understand...what a dragon should do? How a dragon should live? And...what should Blake be striving for? "

Blake holds you tightly. You continue to piggy back the dragon child....but there is an "oh shit moment." Gaelion could've been directly related to Blake...or worst....he could've been Blake's biological father. Either way,

con
>>
>>3489572

Eventually you make it to the core of the cave. As you feared...it was raided. There was an empty nest, a bed, some children toys, and other valuables that were clearly for Wyndia lying on the ground. The place was structured like some sort of house. A place for the monsters, Wyndia and Gaelion to live together...like a family. This deeply saddens Blake but they go to point at the toy dragon. You lean over to pick it up and hand it to Blake.

" Blake will find her....Blake will save Wyndia...and the monster eggs. No matter how long...or how far Blake will have to go. ..Blake will reunite the family. So that Gaelion...can rest in peace....without any regrets. "

You get the feeling this experience has made Blake matured...this is bit of deja vu with Rifana. Just how much this country going to keep stealing the children's childhoods from them?

"..Blake has so many people in Blake's life..all very important to Blake. ...Still..Blake has nobody to teach Blake how to be a dragon...all Blake has...is instincts. "

Blake holds you closely as you use architect spear to make a proper place out of the cave. Undo the damages and anything else you can think of to make it a save haven for monsters. Only then did the two of you leave and begin tending to the remains of Gaelion. Blake looks to you before looking back to Gaelion.

"..Big sis Freya can make something out of this right? Blake wanted to bury Gaelion...but if Blake did that...then people will try to look for his remains...use them for bad things...Also....Blake feels like Gaelion....in some form or another...should see Wyndia again. So...this is selfish for Blake to say....but....is it alright....if Gaelion comes with us...{/green]

You can hear how much Blake is shaking from this. Blake was forcing themselves to smile despite it all.

>How do you respond?
>>
>>3489622

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2tiZGy4z8U music.
>>
>>3489572

Either way, you continue to support Blake through it all. After all, you were the one that picked Blake up, gave them life, care for them and given them meaning in their life. Biological or not, Blake was still your daughter.

fixed.
>>
>>3489622

Not going to delete posts like this anymore. Ends up being more of a hassle than it's worth.
>>
>>3489736
I remember a different quest where the QM mentioned they had editing rights. As long as it isn't some major error you can probably just do that so that the end result when it gets archived looks proper.
>>
>>3489855

Would be nice to be able to have editing rights, would make this so much easier. Even having a deletion time limit is such a hassle.
>>
>>3489622
>Give Blake another hug.
"Of course he can."
>Store Gaelion's body in the inventory
>>
>>3489931
Lets put him in the spear, and maybe have Blake Cannibalize the rest? I mean, its what I would think he meant. Hell, maybe he'll gain the curse as an ability.
>>
>>3489935
>Big sis Freya can make something out of this right?
That's pretty much the opposite of what Blake requested.
>>
>>3489942
Its just us making armor out of it is about the same thing. I know he hated Filo doing it, but shes the sworn enemy of his kind. Maybe ask him what do you mean, I'm just saying I'm not averse to him assuming part of the Dragon's flesh into his own being.
>>
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>3489931
>>3489935
>>
>>3489622
Another hug.
>>3489931
Supporting this since other anon didnt seem to quite get what blake meant.
>>3489980
>>
>>3489931
>>3489935

You imminently give Blake another hug, reassuring the dragon child that Gaelion can come with them.. Blake could only cry into your shoulders, crying until they were too out of tears to cry. You held them close, petting and stroking their beautiful scarlet hair. Once they were done you started to package as much of Gaelion you can into the inventory and the spear. Anything that couldn't fit...Blake did the unthinkable and absorbed Gaelion into her. It wasn't cannibalism which would only be more messed up. Even if Blake told you that some dragons do eat other dragons, but mainly for power reason. With the remains taken care of and the area was disinfected, you and the rest of the group decide to head back to the village.

Upon arrival, you met up with both Elena and Freya who you give the rundown about what has happened. Unsurprisingly, they were positively upset over what Blake had to experienced and finding out the truth about the incident. Elena was exceptionally furious while Freya kept her cool but was naturally equally angry. During your travels, Freya did participate in many of the hunting and training between the party. She really had quite the dynamic with Blake, which makes sense since she was a blacksmith and Blake was a walking forge.

Following Elena and Freya, you make your way to the source of the corruption. They have rounded up the remaining figure heads that were still around as most of them fell to the plague. The lot of them were in the large meeting house as they were tied up and were unable to leave. Elena manages to squeeze out information out of the group. They reluctantly tell you that they lied to the Sword Hero Riku about their problem. They wanted a hero to slay the dragon after considering that they were going to get overrun. But Freya forced them to speak up and reveal that it was a cover for the innocent villagers...those who were in on it knew that it was an all a money scheme. This made Blake all the more upset, but they continue to remain silence until they finish talking about the plan and how if you were in their shoes you would do the same thing when trying to keep the village afloat.

How do you respond?

>Argue against them
>Let Blake handle this
>Punch the active village head
>Something else
>>
>>3489994

Even satan agrees cannibalism is no good. And nobody should fuck with Dragon Daughterfu.
>>
>>3490078
QM, could you elaborate on what exactly is going on? How was getting the dragon killed a scheme to make money for the town?
>>
>>3490117
>>3490117

Dragons are highly valuable. Like...ridiculously valuable. Their flesh is one of the best foods, their scales and bones make for amazing arsenal/armory stuff, their saliva and breath is highly valuable medical materials. There's so much different usage for dragons it's not even funny. The fact they're on top of the food chain also makes them legend material. Kill one and you get a lot of fame and be consider a legend. Just imagine the tourist attraction once you clean the bones and place them on to the cave front and center.
>>
>>3490078
(Not votes I just figure you accidentally skipped writing some parts like I tend to do when i get distracted or self edit.)
Overrun by what?
I'm also not exactly sure what the current decline of the village is or the causes. I can't tell if it's just a general decline or it's an actual "sudden" problem like unexpected crop failure.

>>3490078
(now actual vote)
I wasn't gonna do it before but then I thought about what the guy said more. Half tempted to stab an arm/hand or something to a wall and dare him to say that we are a murderer again.
>Punch
>Did it never occur to you to ASK the dragon protecting your village for help?
>And what did you do with the child? (She's demihuman and they get enslaved all the time so that's my first guess since I don't remember exactly what she did until she shows up in the story)
>Establish reparations the village must pay(with interest rates?) to Wynne and her descendants.

>I think this is a bit far ahead but we might need to call a village meeting and tell everyone the reason so many died to the plague and that they no longer have the protection the dragon personally gave their village to keep monsters from harming them.
>>3490117
Dragons have TREASURE. SO much so that there's no way the other villagers aren't also guilty due to the sheer amount of workers required to haul it out.
>>
>>3490155

Monster properganda. They're using the excuse to tell the non-shitty people that they're hiring heroes to control the monster population and protect their village from getting invaded by hordes of monsters.

The village is decently fine...they just wanted MORE money.


unless that's in character asking in which I'll explain in the next official post
>>
>>3490168
Ah. So they were trying to lie to our faces since they didn't notice Blake can speak to fucking ghosts.
I'm surprised we lasted that long into the explanation before punching. I guess we are getting more self control.
>>
>>3490147
Ah, I see. I didn't think that's what they were after since they just sort of left it there to rot.

>>3490078
"So what you're telling me is that you orchestrated the death of an innocent, sentient being... you planned a fucking MURDER... because you wanted a little cash? And you think that's justified?!"
"Do you understand how absurd your logic is? 'Oh, I kidnapped and slaughtered a bunch of children, but's it's okay because I GOT PAID FOR IT!' "
>Smash whatever table they have in their meeting house, and grab their leader by the collar.
"Now you're going to do the only thing you can to retain any scrap of humanity you've got left. Tell me where the child from the cave is before I send you to apologize to Gaelion in person."
>>
Told you all thats what the Dragon meant.

>>3490155
This is the best we can do unless you guys want to just execute them. I say these people have basically committed First Degree Murder of a sentient creature and Conspiracy to cover it up, which I say is more than enough to get hanged for in Fuedal Court
>>
>>3490195
It's tempting, but there's so much to clean up afterwards and having to sort out what people were in on it would be a bitch of a time.. (I also don't think we're quite able to kill sapient beings without a thought yet since our spear isn't wrath and we aren't really getting the proper sort of bloodlust for the spear atm)

We also aren't able to perform the horrible little curses we know about in myth. Might be able to fidangle a rune we brand onto them as punishment, but I don't think we saw evidence of them activating yet?
>Maybe also do something that bans them from ever leaving the village so that they're stuck in a place that knows what they did until they die? The village could become their jail and they must live in poverty.

DESU I half wanna see just how unrepentant and gravedigging they can get before I point out that they are in a room with a very angry dragon that will never forget what they've done.
>>
>>3490207
Oh, I know! We brand their foreheads with a spear, meaning they have been judged guilty by us. Maybe we use Bane's 'Ravage' to prevent its healing?

All we need to do is tell the Shadows what it means and they can spread the rumors. If we do this right its something we can do to Bitch without killing her outright.
>>
>>3490195

Actually i was originally going for just making armor/weapons out of his body, but I didn't want to also flat out say no to what you suggested since i can work with it.
>>
>>3490221
And that makes you a good QM.
>>
>>3490155
>>3490190
>>3490195

Without even letting him finish the line you sock the acting village chief right in the face. Nobody stops you from doing it as if you didn't one of them would have done it instead. The rest panic from this act. They went as far as to question your liability as a hero. You criticize them saying that heroes are suppose to protect the innocent from evil. And from the sounds of it, the village heads were the evil ones and Gaelion and the monsters were the true victims.

One of the other heads question why you would believe words of a child after you told them how you got the information in the first place. This level of denial and absurdity was completely asinine for you.This was just them trying to save their skin and avoid responsibility. So you really want to go and beat the shit out the heads. But Elena stops you when she sees Blake slowly going forward as one man says they were just defending themselves. Monsters couldn't be the same as humans as they were ruled by their instincts. Basically it's a us or them sort of deal.

"..So in that case...by according to your logic...Blake has every right to kill every single one of you then?"

They froze in fear once they saw Blake's dragon eyes...finally accepting that they were under judgment with a purebred dragon. Her hands crackle in anger, claws drawn out as Blake looks down against them.

"..As you say....it's them or us...are you sure that's what you wanted to go out on?"

As Blake threatens them, they turned back to you for a bit. They move their finger in a speaking gesture. You destroy the group with fact and logic >>3490190 >>3490155 The look on their faces made them realize just how much they really messed up. Yet their pride was keeping them fully admitting it since again this country was high on Human supremacy and anything different was beneath them. This made you practically punch the table, breaking it in half in response to the hypocrisy.

"...Blake had a hard time deciding what Blake was going to do...when meeting with these people. If there was a justified reason....Blake would probably accept it since survival is what all living creatures want. But from the sounds of it...it was all for your selfish reasons...and you don't really care. ...Not for the ecosystem and everything that lives here...or even your own people. Blake really wants to kill you....but that just be the easy way out. You don't deserve to go where Gaelion is. Trash who aren't worth it should be made to force to look at their mistakes...and repent for them until they die."

With that Blake turns from the figure heads, walking back to the party and leaving the rest up to you. This was a very mature thing to do from Blake. Even though had they killed everyone in the room...you honestly couldn't blame Blake.

con
>>
>>3490317

You went to grab the leader by the neck, finishing off by asking them where Wyndia is. It was the only other thing that kept Blake from killing them. You also asked about the monster eggs they stole in addition since they were Gaelion's legacy. They were equally apart of this as Wyndia was. The group solemnly admit that Wyndia got sold into slavery and the monster eggs were sold as well. Blake had their back turn, but you can just feel the murderous intent coming from them. The entire room was darkening and even the Spear of Lust was starting to resonate with Blake's desire to murder.

Even then, what was keeping both you and Blake from acting out on these feelings...were your strong hearts. You put the spear away, walking over to the village, switching to a more fitting spear instead. You tell the village heads that they were going to repent. You start to mark each of them, marking them accordingly so they would be forever stuck to remember their sins until they die. The mark essentially ensures that they couldn't leave the village. Your spear wouldn't let them and would torment them wherever they go. You couldn't flat throw them in jail at the time, but you certainly was going to make them feel like they're in prison as they live in poverty.

Once that was done, you and the rest of the group leave the room, positively sick with all of this. Even if Wyndia and her descendants were to get money, it wouldn't change the suffering that she'll endure until you find her. Still, you go through with telling everyone in the village that their leader essentially doomed them because of greed. Going as far to reveal their entire plot and pointing out the only thing that kept the village safe was now dead. >>3489455
You also put a monument/epitaph with your architect spear so they would never forget. All their future problems would entirely come from the sins of their leaders and those follow with them.

What else do you do?

>Go to Blake
>Pack up and Leave
>Something else
>>
>>3490349
Hmm, shield boy still around?
>>
>>3490377

Was thinking he left and you would establish a time and a date for you to talk since you got him on your spearphone
>>
>>3490349
> Get a lead on Wyndia and a description. Who'd they sell her to and what did she look like?
>>
>>3490425
After that we head out while talking to Blake.
>>
>>3490409
So the spearphone works on people? Nice to know we experimented more with it. I've been a bit hesitant to play with ALL the apps since I'm half scared that it actually connects back to Earth even if being able to watch funny cat videos would be great.

>>3490349
>>3490425
Supporting and we might want to get the general direction/names of the slavers to try and track her financially. Slave traders usually kept decent records on Earth.
Since we apparently really can use the phone although I'm not sure It's telepathy.
Call Riku and see if he's near the capitol to try and get him to check the slave dealer for Wynne. Not sure what else to say to him but if he sounds unmotivated while we talk (and it doesn't sound mid battle) we can cut him off by saying she was the adopted daughter of that dragon he slew which the village sold into slavery.
>>
>>3490464

It is exactly like a telepathy spell or magic crystal ball.
>>
>>3490464
If we can, show Blake some cute cat videos.
>>
>>3490464
>Google would like to know your location
>>
>were your strong hearts
Hah. Funny how the Sin weapons are making it harder to mete out actual justice.

Look I'll play along, but there's no way this would be enough in the real world.

The only real reason we can't kill them now is for fear of activating the lust spear even if it's ACTUALLY one of the better options.
>>
>>3490490
To be fair, I wouldn't be a betting man when it comes to if the rest of the villagers won't also "dispense justice" at what's been done.
>>
>>3490349
>Get a lead on Wyndia
>Mark the dragon mountain as a possible option for a base of operations or at least a staging ground with teleportation for mobilizing forces or evacuating civilians.
>Carve the family names of EVERYONE in the village into the monument. Nobody gets to pretend they are uninvolved, and it's not about punishing individuals.
>Talk with the party about the morality and dignity of monsters, if we need to treat them as people or what. Person Rights, qualifications for personhood, etc.
>>
Ooh. The welsh dragon is actually a god named Dewi. It's a bit of a bitch to find any actual information about Dewi but that's a standard thing due to christianity.
>>
>>3490490

If only you knew what happened to the village in the actual canon. Even karma doesn't want them getting off easy for selling a little girl into slavery.
>>
>>3490490
The phrase "Degenerates like you belong on a cross" comes to mind...
>>
>>3490464
>>3490512
>>3490425

You manage to squeeze out precisely where Wyndia was sold to. Apparently she was bought and traded off to castle town to be distributed properly. Even manage to get a description. It was a girl with blue hair and dog ears. With this description you find it greatly narrow down the possibilities of finding where Wyndia was taken.

With that out of the way, you use your spearphone to call Riku who you did manage to save during the meeting with the King. Riku was indeed near the capital as he was picking up some supplies. It was just a few days before you and him were suppose to meet up. He asks if it was important considering that it's late. You tell him exactly about the dragon that he slew having an adoptive daughter.


"...What...What do you mean she's the adopted daughter of the dragon? There was no description from the villagers about this. ...This better not be a twisted joke."

You tell Riku everything about the dragon. Just telling her she was a demi-human alone was more than enough to make Riku start to understand the real gravity of the situation. But you go into the full story about Gaelion thanks to Blake and make Riku realize quite plainly...he fucked up. He fucked up big time.

"...If what you're saying is exactly the truth...and you don't have any reason to lie to me...then I'm going to slave merchant right now. I'm going to find her and I'm going to save her. ..In the end I'm the one who ended up falling into a ploy no different then either you or Nickolas. ..I thought I was saving those people.....That I was....forget it. It's my mistake and my mess to deal with. I'd thank you for handling the villagers..cause if I return...I'm not sure what I'm going to do the village heads for deceiving me."

You make it apparent that you're coming along to save Wyndia. It just isn't his problem to deal with. And, considering you been raising kids yourself. How could you possibly abandoned one when you have the chance to same them?

"...Alright....You earn that right to see things to the end. I'll meet you at the meeting spot as planned and give you all that I cover up in Castle town so we can go find her."

You was clear that there was more that Riku wanted to talk about. But he kept himself from speaking, he couldn't get distracted. Riku needed to stay focus and pull himself together to do what needed to be done. With that out of the way you went to Blake...after you carved the family names of everyone in the village into the monument. This may seem cruel but so was making a hero do their dirty work and not have the balls to tell him the truth once it was over.

con
>>
>>3490618
>>3490512

Once you did the necessary marking of the village as your territory in terms of teleportation, you decide to make it to the party. You give a brief rundown to the party over exactly what has happened. It wasn't easy but you establish that at some point you and the gang were going to talk about the actual morality and dignity of monsters, especially for Blake's sake. It wasn't going to be an easy topic, but it was going to get straighten out one way or another. But first thing first, you went off to find Blake.

Blake was currently sitting on a rock looking at the night sky. Their hands were injured to the point that they were bleeding. Blake's body was trying to regenerate the damage. You didn't need to ask what Blake was doing. They left quite the trail of destruction as they were venting over the pent up murderous intent that they were carrying.

"It was hard...Hard for Blake to act entirely on Blake's instincts. Blake...really wanted to kill them....perhaps even burn this entire village to the ground. But if Blake did that....Blake doesn't think Blake could ever continue being apart of the party. ...Nor be able to ever meet another human being again. Is this..what Gaelion had to struggle with when he was alive?"

This was really something someone so young shouldn't have to go through. Unfortunately, this was reality. It wasn't a game where there were right answers and everything could be solved so easily. It's funny in the sense that originally that's what all four of you thought when you first came to the world. But spending time with it, experiencing it day by day.. Such notions was honestly laughable now. Still, you did everything in your power to comfort Blake and help them through this painful transition.

What do you do until the meeting? And who do you take with you for rescuing Wyndia. Choose up to 2 + Blake.

>Aden
>Elena
>Rifana
>Melody
>Vivian
>Freya
>Andros
>Just you and Blake
>>
>>3490641
>aden
>andros
The two most likely to know wyndias parents.

Were definitely not buying anything other than information given the party bloat
>>
>>3490641
>Elena since we don't envy the bastard that tries to get an extra high price on Wyndia because a hero specifically wants her.
>Andros since the other anon mentioned he might actually know her parents.
I'm actually ok with Wyndia joining in and being Blake's playmate, but we need a safe "secret" base of operations. I'd actually prefer the monster eggs go to Nick since he seems good at "raising" those balloons constantly trying to eat him, but that would probably mean Windia would want to live there too. It's her choice in the end.
>>
>>3490641
>Rifana
>Elena
Rifana for rescued slave kinship and Elena to handle the potential business aspect of the rescue op. Riku is an absolute stat stick and we're pretty versatile, so anyone we run into who's trying to start trouble is in for a nasty surprise even if Riku is dumb enough to not bring any party members.

Until the meeting, spend time with Blake. This is a pretty rough patch for them and they could use some companionship.
>>
>>3490674
Seconding this.
>>
>>3490674
Good point on Rifa. I am willing to amend Adros into Rifa since I was already considering her before the idea about Andros came up. Andros can always recognize her later and since he hasn't spoken up about it or asked to join the search Rifa might make her more comfortable than the nearly all human group that's being sent in.
>>
File: LNv12.03.jpg (5.69 MB, 2916x4291)
5.69 MB
5.69 MB JPG
Wyndia btw
>>
>>3490674
>>3490692
>>3490693

You decide to spend the next few days with Blake in order to help them get through the hardships that they were going with. Each of the party members in their own way manage to cheer Blake up. In time, Blake seem to more or less return to their old self. Thinking about it long and hard wasn't really Blake style. Rather Blake wanted to focus more on the present. To make lots of fun memories so when the time comes, Blake could be like Gaelion. Only this time have the courage and strength to interact with all life, including humans and be able to befriend them and protect them. Little did Blake knew, but this was the first step for them on their path towards becoming a Dragon Emperor.

During the next few days, both Rifana and Elena talk with you about the plan with Riku. You picked Elena for obvious business and legal reasons while Rifana was chosen for her ninja skills but more importantly an easier means to appeal to Wyndia who most likely would be broken from slavery. Rifana was prime example of this, which made all the more sense why she'd come along with you and Riku's mission to save Wyndia.

Aden spent more time with Freya, getting used to her chimera armor while the two made for great sparing partners. Aden was using an Aikido based style which served for the core for her method of combat rather if it was sword and shield or actual hand to hand. Meanwhile Freya used a method of kickboxing, using her hands to deflect/block attacks while countering with powerful kicks to punish her enemies. She still knew how to throw a punch and what powerful punches she gives. This certainly opened up a lot of different tactics for the team.

Melody was captivating herbs and helping Vivian with keeping up with making potions and other consumables that effect one's status. They seem to have gotten real good at working together with what you can only consider to be Alchemy. That just left Andros who manly gathered resources and handle cooking for the party. On occasion you and Blake accompanying him on these hunts. Just the other day the three of you ended up having to run from a swarm of giant bees just cause Blake made the bees angry cause they wanted the honey and took it without concern.

con
>>
>>3490781

Some part of you secretly wish all days could just be like this. Just traveling the land with your party. Having fun and making precious memories while the romance of adventure kept each day being more exciting than the last.

When it came to the time of the meeting. Rifana and Elena accompanying you directly to the bar in a village near the northeast of Castle Town. Before you could walk right in, you would hear some voices.

"...Don't trouble innocent people any further..."

Those words came directly from Nicolas as he walks out in his barbarian armor costume that made him look like a bandit leader rather than the noble hero you come to respect. Raphtalia followed after him, seemingly missing seeing Rifana as Filo was right behind them. Rifana kept her face hidden, she was still not at the stage she was ready to see Raphtalia. However, seeing her covered in bandages and still cursed made her start to second guess herself. She slaps her hands on her face to keep herself focused. She was ready to save Wyndia, she couldn't be distracted.

It was also for the best to not involve Nickolas with this for the moment. He still had Raphtalia to look over as it was clear he was heading to Castle Town to get her purified. As you walk right inside, you would see a rather distraught and sadden Riku and...Lucien right in the distance?!

>How do you respond?

>Talk to Riku
>Talk to Lucien
>Quietly sit and wait for it to blow over
>Something else
>>
>>3490781
>run from a swarm of giant bees just cause Blake made the bees angry cause they wanted the honey and took it without concern.
Wow Blake, way to be a hypocrite
>>
>>3490806
Is this an important choice? I dont get the point
>talk to Lucien
>>
>>3490823

You can figure out what he has been doing since the last wave among other things. Perhaps even bitch to him about the bioseed.

>>3490808

In Blake's defense, they tried asking nicely and got stung on the nose. Also it wasn't like they stole the whole honey storage, just a couple of jars worth for cooking/healing purposes. it was also suppose to be a comedic yet bonding experience. Got the Bee and Honey Spear out of it
>>
>>3490698

>Talk to Riku
>Teach Blake at some point about the general idea of beekeeping and that she could have used smoke to make them fall asleep.
>>
>>3490806
>Talk to Riku
Let's get an idea of what just went down.

>>3490808
Bees are always hoarding that good shit for themselves anyway. They deserve to be robbed.
>>
File: 4a3.jpg (125 KB, 637x476)
125 KB
125 KB JPG
>>
Changing >>3490839 to
>Talk to Lucien
I want to minimize contact with Lucien because he irritates me, but I would like to know what happened to the bioseed at least. Might as well hear what he's been up to as well as his take on what just went down between Nick and Riku.
>>
>>3490837
>>3490839

It's funny that Blake learned Cloaking Magic to steal honey from bees rather than just learning to use smoke like that.

You decide to go to Riku in order to ask exactly what happened. Riku quickly explained to you that Nickolas told them the problems of their actions. For Riku it was obvious, he mentioned the epidemic and the fact that the dragon he killed didn't disappear its corpse. His trust in the villagers and his campaign to fight the strong and stop the oppression of the weak only ended up causing more casualties. Worst of all Raphtalia was cursed and he saw the full brunt of the suffering he cause in addition to what you told him earlier.

Riku then went to Lucien, starting with the fact that Lucien was raiding dungeons and raising his status through the political latter. He been also secretly going by the name "Caesar" and Caesar has been the one putting an end to the corrupt factions that the rebellion has been fighting. The constant wars that Lucien has been involved with ended territories claimed by incompetence but it didn't make things better for the common folk. The freedom that Caeser gave to the revolution didn't solve the issues of the taxes and running villages.

"It can't be helped. All I did was promise to remove corruption and establish freedom. Many of the villages Caesar has liberated are very grateful and would gladly follow his path to greatness. And if the Rebellions turn out to be just as bad as the previous power..then Caesar will just have to return and punish them as well. All for the sake of Caesar's justice. While I continue to rise to the rankings. In time I'll become influential enough to abolish the plagues that those poor villages are complaining about. Till then, they'l just have to endure."

The way Lucien talks about people like that positively made your blood boiled greatly. Sure there was some truth in Lucien's words. And it did you good that even Lucien saw the nobles as complete idiots and incompetent parasites. But still...the way he viewed them as puppets, the fact he was using sacrifices for his ideology and view of the "greater good". That was no different from being a dictator. Naturally you called Lucien out on such twisted ideals.

con
>>
>>3490873

"I don't know why you're so mad Sir Flaithrí? We're heroes....and it's our duty to answer the call of the people. Riku may have been gullible to believe said modest villagers wouldn't try to use him...but I know how people really are. Without someone to sheperd them, they'll get lost in the sea of chaos and only continue to fight and bicker with one another. The queen's absents alone should prove that. That said...you don't have the right to try and take Nick's side. After all, he's merely pretending to be a savior like you said I am. If he truly believes he's innocent...then he wouldn't be hiding his identity with the book. He would be fighting against the kingdom to prove his worth as a true hero...not floundering helplessly in the mud trying to make by as a merchant till the waves. A janitor cleaning up the mistakes of others. He's just being bitter because he has the worst luck of all and chose to easily reveal his weaknesses. Have you forgotten where we are? Even if this world is given with magic and fantasy...it's still the middle ages. A time were money talks and nobility abuse the gifts they have been so gracefully given. "

Sure he was right, but he didn't have to be such an asshole about it. It was a good thing the three of your conversations were through the native tongue of English from each of your worlds rather than using the auto-translation function of your weapons. Otherwise this would be causing quite a lot of controversy.

con
>>
>>3490888


"...You yourself have problems of your own to deal with...Flaithrí Ó Ruairc. Have you forgotten what you did? The village in the south west...the home to the Bio Seed. It was overrun by the plant as it was threatening to swallow up the land. The people were tempted by the promise of a legendary hero wielding a spear...a gift from said hero to them in order to fight against the damages to the waves and the famine. Then comes the shield hero magically coming to save the people and take the Bio-Seed. Apparently he rewrote the seed's offspring to make sure they were harmless and provide endless sources of food to the people. Nick is profiting from your hard efforts....while the rumors only spread of your incompetence. And let's not forget the Duel between you and him. You were drunk off your power and almost killed the shield hero. Clearly you forgotten that we all need to be around or we can't stop the waves...or so the legends say. But...how can we be sure if the legends are true. I mean they say that we should know everything about this world. And yet here we are...so as far as I'm concern..the legends are merely folktale to use to make the public blind and ignorant. ..So try not to act like you have the more high ground...when you're using slaves and former criminals. If word got out about that...why you'd be just as marked as Nickolas here. So be thankful to your stroke of luck that none of it got out...and instead you're being praised about the one who defeated the dastardly shield hero...and the one who killed the chimera."

Lucien kept his left arm resting on his right hand, stroking his face while having a rather ominous yet still sly smile. It's almost if...he purposely let you be the first one to fight the Chimera. The look on Riku's eyes as he glares at Lucien was more than enough to suspect that Lucien really was doing something truly shady.

"..it's almost like you have Caesar to thank for keeping your identity safe. And don't worry Riku..Caesar will cover up your mistakes as well. So don't worry about the small details. Just continue believing that this is a game and have fun. After all...Justice always sides with the hero."

How do you respond?

>Simply Argue
>Ignore it and wait outside
>Defend Riku and Nick
> Punch Lucien
> Something else
>>
>>3490888
>he wouldn't be hiding his identity with the book.
....no. Thats fucking stupid.
>>
>>3490893

Original canon has Naofumi typically escape notice from the common folk in those villages by using the book shield. To them, they merely see him as the savior merchant. It's rather silly that none of the higher up catches on in the story.
>>
>>>3490896
That wasnt what i was calling stupid
>>
>>3490910

My apologizes, I just naturally assume most people don't know how stupid the source material really is.
>>
>>3490892
This is tiresome
>we didnt give anyone any seed, but we've got a good guess: do YOU know?
>and look, corruption is one thing, but if theyre just incompetent, the threat of death won't magically teach them what they need to rule properly. You're going to spend weeks patrolling the same towns killing the leaders over and over until they learn to bribe whoever is judging them.
>How are you even judging them? Do you audit every town on their expenses and projects?
>>
>>3490892

(God I forgot how much of an insufferable asshat the bow hero could be.)

>>34909337

This, I want to say that Spear Hero should also attempt to defend Riku and Nick but I doubt Lucien would listen to anyone but himself at this point.

We should also remark that this isn’t a game, lives are at stake and people are getting hurt. We can’t treat this like a game.
>>
>>3490937
I meant to second this in my above post.
>>
>>3488519
>>3488518
But for real, Riku should be an effective evasion tank if he can solo so much content. He's not totally unskilled.
>>
>>3490892
"You're the idiot who can't see corruption when it's right in front of you. The seed was stolen from my party as I was dying, by Malty. I almost died fighting the same thing Nick fought, a massive plant Golem that kept adapting to all my attacks. As for Malty, or Myne as you guys know her, she told my party to give her the seed or she will prevent my healing somehow."

"The nation we are in currently is corrupt to hell. If you really want to fix it all, you need to assassinate the pope, Malty, and who knows how many nobles. I'll leave that to you as Malty has one of my Friends on a kill switch."
>>
>>3490873
>Ceasar
Well that's just great, you don't even need to be a historian to realize that he's openly declaring his intent to rule the world with the little name change.
>>3490892
>Laugh at Lucien
>You mean the Bio seed Mynne sent me to get while claiming it was an assignment from you? speak with a less forked tongue, I cannot figure out if the shrew has deceived you or that is admittance of your own machinations.
>I suppose it doesn't matter, the trick worked because I let myself be so injured by the guardian of the temple that she could delight in threatening the party with me being allowed to die from a lack of medical care. (Not mentioning Melody since that's telling the madman going for world domination about a major weakness of ours)
>>
By the way QM, have we told the shadows to collect a person to cure that seal?
>>
>>3491125
We have, and we're gonna need them to speed that shit up unless we somehow can get a way to smuggle ourselves out to that Orca.
I do kinda want to beat her in a drinking contest, but then we'd have to deal with thoroughly rejecting her because we aren't trying to get a harem or break anyone's heart by going for some random girl instead of just picking one of them already.
>>
>>3491133
I think losing would be more entertaining
>>
>>3490892
>Give him the look of a man who is extremely unimpressed with his bullshite
He won't learn outside of high force trauma to the brain.
>>
>>3491003

Your not wrong, trying my best to make this person be credible but still acknowledge just how much of a prideful prick he is....basically light yagami or zero in a sense
>>
>>3491350
woah woah, zero's nothing like that.
>>
>>3491380
He is a BIT flamboyant in the same chunni ways, but Lucien reminds me more of Lulu's siblings. He might have good intentions depending upon the plot and basis of hero selection (Aka well intentioned but doesn't know how to live other than being a scheming bastard that's openly evil if the summoning actually factors personality into account. It just might be that so many people are awful in this current planet that most people from whatever earth is looked at are heroic in comparison)


It might be a good time to mention that we'd probably know more about this world if we weren't summoned into this world while still in the introductory chapter of that library book we found but I'm not sure at all how to work that into the conversation.
>>
>>3490937
>>3491003
>>3491079
>>3491113
>>3491167

You gave Lucien the most meanest of looks before swaying to being completely unimpressed with his tactics. You mention to Lucien that you know your history. Countless rulers and emperors who like Lucien manage to both succeed and fail at what they are doing. Augustus maybe the perfect fit for him but you imagine that may also be problematic for you considering how egotistical he is now that you're getting a slow understanding of the man under the mask of a hero.

>>3490937

"Of course I know. I knew about it for quite sometime. Telling you at the time while it would've been helpful...it wouldn't really tackle the long term issue. Unfortunately I need the three of you to endure the schemes and trickery until Caesar's succeed in his main objective for the first step. So that means using the uprising as a test...to know my enemy, how they act and plan..to snuff their objections out in the open..even plant bait to draw them closer to their goals...so Caesar can effectively get into the position to stop them. While Lucien Ainsworth remains a champion to the people in the light, while those in the shadows learn to fear the name Caesar."

Lucien continues to keep his smile despite you starting to laugh at him. No matter how smart, charismatic, or talented he is. It doesn't change the effect that he was an eighteen year old man. Unlike you and Nick, he was still a sapling in the world. His emotions will get to him, sooner or later and make him slip up. You start to argue that Myne was the one who set the entire plant golem thing and while acknowledging your own failure in not seeing it sooner and avoid walking into her plans.

>>3491113

"What exactly is Myne Sophia's....or should I say Malty S. Melrmomac's real objective? You're a smart historian, so you should know the phrase keep your friends close...and your enemies closer. Rather than trying to pick apart rather if I am tempted by her...or just using her for my objectives...you should be more worried about by how much she is trying to wedge between you and Nick. For instance...have you ever thought...that maybe...she's using someone with the same skills equal to that of a shadow to masquerade as yourself?

There was the kicker. It seems that you have to give Lucien credit. He was showing more competency then any of the corrupted nobles or figure heads that you met so far was given. Still, you feel absolutely angered that Lucien didn't completely stop these so called attempts to splinter the heroes and subtly keep them in line.

"Once again...you should be thanking me for surprising the information out. But the people she wants the deceit to be known to are in fact aware about it. After all...what kind of hero fraternizes with who they call...the demon of the shield? That would undoubtedly cause bad blood for those who want to market us as the real heroes."

con
>>
>>3491435


"..Now before you blow a gasket...I'm not saying your friend...any of them could be a mole. That said, in my countless trips to many dungeons in this country and political parties I been attending to. I have been thoroughly digging up information just to be sure. I wouldn't want one of the four cardinal heroes...to be stabbed in the back now would I?"

What exactly was he implying? Just how far did Lucien go to obtain knowledge. And...how many people did he have to step on to achieve it? You get the feeling that Lucien really does think of himself as a hero. And his core motives are benevolent. However...his methods could be anything but what a traditional hero would stoop to doing.

"Caesar will be the one to put an end to the corruption. But in order for that to happen...Caeser has to drag out the main threats from the shadows..and properly crush them. Crush them in a way that all will fear Caeser like no other. Not as a god...but the symbol of victory and justice. The one true king. And for Caeser to do that...if he has to get dirty to save this world, then Caesar will gladly dive into this country's darkness. It's how I...ended up figuring out that despite how game-like this world is...it's just as real as our original world. "

This only start to boil the pot even further. He's willing to play with people, install fear to control them, even use the rebellions as mere testing grounds in order to polish his skills for conquest. He was essentially playing with people's lives yet couldn't be bothered to take care of what you believe the source of this kingdom's problems in front of him.

con
>>
>>3491472
"The real Caesar Augustus fell, it wasn't through strategy or any tactic. It was through deception, Pride, and stupidity. Make sure you don't have a Brutus among your so-called companions." and when we leave say hail Caesar.
>>
>>3491472

You start to mention that he shouldn't get so smug. You been doing your best to gather information as well. Heck you started to talk about the book in front of Lucien.

"Ah yes the book. The device that all of us came into this world. It would've been wonderful if we could've finished the book before getting summoned here. It would've made this a whole lot easier...at the same time. The game wouldn't be as interested now would it? "

Even though he said this was reality, the fact he would such a line made you even mader. Rather if he was just saying to get under your skin given how much he gather you are willing to fight and protect the people or he's looking for a challenge while trying to be the king of justice...it didn't change the facts.

>>3491079

" This may be close to the middle ages sure..but try not to say something so obvious? I respect you too much for you to suggest something so simple and...barbaric? I need proof of their corruption. To bring it to the light. So once they are killed, I...I mean we can eliminate them while gaining favor with the queen and the people. Instead of being scene as madmen who decide who lives and who should die. We'll be the warriors of justice and truth, bringing forth change that'll not only make this country look good...but also tell the other countries of our credentials and credibility as heroes. But...I'm happy you're willing to let me handle this. So just focus on what's on the surface...while I tackle the real threats in the shadows. I believe we can agree on that at least right ?"

Lucien offers his hand to you, with his other one holding the bow.

>How do you respond?
>>
>>3491497

"As long as you keep an eye on Malty Melomarc and prevent her from doing anything out of line, I will agree to your terms. I don't want her to interfere with what we do as Heroes, it is our business and she has no right to interfere, royalty or not."

If he agrees to this, shake his hand, before parting with Lucien remark:

"Remember that Caesar fell because of traitors in his group, and because he became too arrogant. Make sure that you don't have someone like that in your group."

Then meet with Riku one on one as planned.
>>
>>3491543
Remember Brutus
>>
>>3491435
>>3491497
>Brutus killed Caesar in my world. You should know your audience a little better before making a speech. From what little I know, in comparison to yours, my world is a world of revolutions.The common people do not like their lives to be considered as pawns on a chessboard and what comes after a revolution is far more important than the revolution itself.
I will not be your black knight,but I will try to consider the good in you. (I'm starting to think that he's some sort of tsundere variant where he acts standoffish but has good intentions and can't realize what he's doing wrong due to the cultural gap.)
>>3491489
The best part is that he is going to be utterly confused for a bit since Brutus failed in his world.
>>
>>3491543
This, also we didn’t have much stake in fighting the “noble underworld” anyway, our main motives is to protect the people and clean up some of the mistakes made in the original Shield Hero LN.

That and we should at least be on somewhat good terms with the Bow hero, despite how much of a twat he is.
>>
>>3491489
>>3491543

"I suppose I'd owe you that much for being understanding. To be honest...I was expecting you to punch me at some point. But I will keep my eye on Malty and interfere with her plans.

With that, the two of you shake hands and acknowledge this alliance. While that doesn't mean you agree with Lucien or his ideals, you can at least come to terms that the enemy of my enemy is my friend for now. You manage to tell Lucien to watch his back while reciting how Augustus fell and to not become blinded by arrogance. Lucien just wave his hand in acknowledgement as his back was turned. With a snap of the fingers, he disappears from the bar via one of his skills.

That just leaves you and Riku as originally scheduled. You go to take a seat where Riku sanctioned himself to. You also thank Riku for not interfering in your verbal confrontation with Lucien. He brushed it across before looking at you.

"I told you on communication that I managed to find where exactly Wyndia was located. I brought Tersia, and Farrie with me. I trust you understand exactly why I decided to lower my party numbers for this mission right?

Colored you surprised. You thought for sure Riku would've came completely alone. He was so effective and efficient as a solo player. The very thought of working with a team would've been the last thing to come to mind. It would be much more in character if Riku went to save Wyndia all on his own, thus angering you and several of your party members. Blake especially would be the angriest. However...you also notice that he turned his face from you.

"...Do you blame me for all of this? If we're going to be working together....you should speak out what you really want to say to me first so there's no conflict later..."

>How do you respond?
>>
shit, did we just create a triumvirate. I hope it goes as well as Caesars did. It did really well up until the end. Then one guy betrayed the other guy and then that's how the Roman Civil War started. I'm worried now.
>>
>>3491606

Acknowledging you also said this in >>3491623

It fits why Lucien chose not to answer and turn your back to you. Thus confirming your opinion of him and the culture shock. but he's too prideful to admit it
>>
>>3491623
A little, but even I'm shocked by how brazen and unrepentant they were. They kept digging their grave so deep that there's not really much frustration left for you. It's easy to forget the differences in culture and ethics despite monstrosities like slavery and slave seals existing. I had to resist the urge to break every one of them out of there when I set foot in that merchant's shop to get Blake's egg.


>>3491631
And to think when we started this "week" I was wondering how to make a dragon chariot like Medea had in myth for Blake.
>>
>>3491623
“No, I don’t blame you. How could you have known that the villagers had ulterior motives for getting rid of the dragon.”
>>
>>3491623
" I can't really bring myself to blame you even if I really want to. Because because we're called heroes are expected to do great things. A people forget the that we're just ordinary everyday People like them. We make mistakes. Well I'm bitter about it, your trying your best."
>>
>>3491623
"I'd be lying if I said I didn't place some of the blame on you. You deliberately chose ignorance, expecting people to come to you when they needed help and point you at powerful opponents without bothering to investigate for yourself. You also chose to ignore my warning that people would try to take advantage of you. Blame lies with those who abused your help, certainly, but you're not absolved of guilt by any means."
>>
>>3491804
>>3491783
>>3491778
>>3491770

You make it apparent to Riku that while you don't completely blame him, he should still hold himself accountable to his actions. You tell him that you talked to the current figureheads and were positively disgusted over their actions. But you also acknowledge that despite warning him, you didn't fully taken to account of where Riku comes from. He lives in a world where the middle ages as you knew them to be never happened. Science was much more advance this and people were more educated and well verse. His time has at least a hundred years or two jump ahead of you. That said, you manage to speak your opinion out in full view.

"...Believe me...I have more blame for myself more than anyone could muster. I just wanted to give you the chance to lash out on me....I kept my distance to the nobles and was always skeptical. But i still ended up doing the job, thinking not for them...but for the people who live having to deal with monsters. The strong...should only fight against the strong. The weak have no place getting involved with their conflict...or be taken advantage of...the weak deserve to freely choose how they want to live...without outside interference..."

Riku looks up to the ceiling, there was a deep hint of sadness in his eye. Yet he kept himself from breaking down. There was no time to do that. He knows this more than anyone that there was around two weeks and a few days until the third wave. He doesn't have the luxury to break down. But it did you good that despite being so aloof and distant...he was perhaps the most gentle of the four heroes...something in his life prior to arriving here must have happened to him to make him have such conflicting ideals.

" I'm not doing this looking to be forgiven....I'm just correcting my problems. Otherwise...my words...my beliefs...they won't become truth. And if I can't make them the truth...then what exactly have I been doing..."

His hand grips against the table as there was a clear sign of frustration. It was hard to forget that Riku was the youngest one out of the four. He was still a teenager...yet here he was fighting just as hard if not harder than everyone here. What he did next surprise you further as he started to bow to you. A traditional japanese bow with his head fully tilted downwards.

"...I'm Sorry. Even though you were right and I knew that you were right...somewhere in my heart...I didn't want to admit it. ..I didn't want to start second guessing myself or my actions. My stubbornness is my weakness..and I tried hard to not expose any weaknesses.....but that may have been wrong?"

>How do you respond?
>>
>>3491893
How am I supposed to know? I'm always getting into trouble because of how bullheaded I am. Just don't lose track of what is right and wrong I guess?

I've been meaning to bring this up. Did that video of the duel show our throbbing erection so that it becomes the talk of the land?Wait a second, did the King make him our "subordinate" thinking we would rape Nick?



Now onto more important things; We got any good historical apps or Ebooks? I wanna teach Blake about east asia (Or show her videos of some misc dragon festival) since Western Dragons tend to be more antagonistic due to Christianity basically rolling in and associating dragons with Satan. Not many positive dragon stories are left in the west as a result. Anywhere past India on the other hand? They love dragons and many Kings even claim to be descended from dragons or be connected to them.
>>
>>3491893
“Riku, please lift your head, its already enough that you admitted to me your faults. There is nothing more to forgive.”

Give him an reassured smile, and put a hand on his shoulder.

“It is okay to rely on others Riku, I know that you’re strong and you are used to going at things solo. But we’re fellow heroes from other worlds, I can count on you as much as you count on me.”
>>
>>3491968

Some things...are better left unsaid...but...It went exactly as that.
>>
>>3491968
>>3491970

You got some historical apps/ebooks, more than enough to tech Blake.

You were surprised by how willing Riku was to bowing his head and apologizing for his mistake. This must have took a lot of strength to do and undoubtedly damaged his pride especially given that he was still a teenage. But it's clear that he should also be treated like a real man since it takes one to own up to their mistakes and make no excuses.

>>3491968

Riku is taken by surprise by your act of kindness and respect. You mention that you make mistakes and get into trouble almost all the time because of your bullheadedness. There was no right or wrong answer to the question that Riku asked. Life wasn't so simple that it could be solved like that. Instead, you place your hand on his shoulders as he lift his head to meet your reassuring smile. You tell him that it was okay to rely on others and that he is strong. The faith you have in him touched a cord in his heart as he shows his more gentle and soft side. It must have been real rough trying to keep his emotions in check and keep himself guarded at all times.

"...Right, I won't forget those words."

After a touching bro moment, the two of you begin to talk strategy. In a sense, what they were about to do require them to be stealthy and secretive. For the slave merchant revealed to Riku that the monster eggs and Wyndia were currently located in what can only be a farm. A massive farm out in the northwest. You can only guess the farm is some sort of hunting game for nobles to chase after wild animals and monsters for sport. Or it could also be one of those gladiator arenas built in for the middle ages version of cockfighting. So if they want to save Wyndia and the eggs...then they would potentially have to commit a crime at worst to do so.

Riku pulls out a map of the entire area, covering exactly everything you would expect from such a cruel establishment. It even did have a place for gladiator style fights among other test of competition and torment. Now that you know the base of operation and the rough estimate of the staff and their work times...

>what do you do ?
>>
>>3492114

forgot, the place also handles slave auctions.

And

"...You were probably also wondering why Lucien was here? I...I asked lucien a favor. He's going to meet up with the pope and push back the date of the meeting. So we're going to have a week and a few extra days to tackle this mission rather than rush to complete it in the short window of opportunity. "
>>
>>3492007
I had started that comment waiting for that Jackie-Chan drunken master joke, but then I put two+two together.
>>
>>3492114
>>3492149

"Quick thinking, it makes sense for Lucien to go and tell the pope considering Nick isn't well liked by the capital."

(QM is there a way to disguise ourselves like how Shield-Hero did in the LN with the Book-Sheild or whatever it was called or maybe some kind of Shadow magic that can hide our presence for some stealth.)

(If that is possible suggest that course of action, we want to remain hidden for as long as possible to scout the farm and even go into the farm itself to look for the eggs, if we are caught our appearances would be changed so that no one would recognize us as the Sword and Spear Heroes).
>>
>>3492199

Yes, all the heroes can disguise their weapons like the shield does with the book. With Size Spear, you can freely manipulate the spear's size even when changing spears.
>>
>>3492114
>We'd still need a way to take the slave seal off. (We don't know that the master dying kills them too unless we were informed off screen, but we do know that Mynne has unlocked all sorts of nastiness and that a large scale operation like this might know such things too. If we do things wrong Wnnye and the rest of them might end up even more of a mess than Melody.)
>Nick may not deserve the reputation he has, but why not make use of it? We could call him in to infiltrate them. He's always angry about something but saying that he gets to point out to all of the people at that party that they basically told him to start freeing slaves the instant they complain would give him some motivation.
I'm extremely worried on if I metagamed here since my first thought is that we'd need infiltration due to the slavers being able to set their slaves out on us and or hold them hostage, but it was also pretty obvious what you're setting up.
>>3492114
>>
>>3492233

The one who can save the Slaves will come. That's the only hint I'll give.
>>
>>3492243
Too late. My brain is already spiraling into us creating or taking over a floating continent to use as a city/state we establish that's ruled by a parliamentary democracy as well as councils of oversite involving dragon kings, the latest batch of summoned heroes, and Fae.
>>
>>3492267


Fae? Like the elves/fairies or something else?
>>
>>3492288
Whatever we end up finding since its a big planet and we haven't even left one moderately decent country.
>>
>>3492294

Either way, I have to thank you for giving me additional ammo for future arcs
>>
>>3492305
You provided the ammo for that when you said our first impression of beastmen was that of half-fae. Other anons pointing out there were implications of ancient genetic engineering I missed while reading machine translations probably explains quite a bit when it comes to Demihuman variety.
>>
>>3492114
Ask Riku if he has anything like the Chameleon Spear but for his sword.
How well-known are the faces of the people involved in the operation? If anyone isn't very famous, we could probably gain entry by claiming that one of them owns Rifana and is looking to buy a playmate. That might even get them to bring Wyndia to us.
If the two heroes remain invisible, we can sneak in with the rest and either try to buy Wyndia to keep it all quiet and smooth or we could attack/try to steal her if we decide that's a better course of action.

>>3492288
Celtic myth lesson #1: is it magical and unexplained? Probably fae. At the very least, it has something to do with the Celtic Otherworld.
>>
If we wanted to go evil, we could sneak in and turn the owners of the establishment into our places through forced contract. Then their orders are not to give orders to any of your lesser slaves.
>>
>>3492267
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrTu7BAjjCA

High tech sky society you say? Highly militarised you say?
>>
>>3492315
>>3492233
>>3492199

"Lucien has the best chance to convince the church and the king to postpone the meeting. The king might support you given how you bested Nickolas and hearing what your faker is currently doing. But there's the pope to consider as you did try to convince the group that you was going to go to the shield to help protect the people. As for me, I'm....not the best for approaching people. ...Kinda socially awkward. And by Kinda...I mean very socially awkward. That's partially why I have people handle things for me when it comes to talking to others. Lucien however...he knows exactly what to say and what people want to hear to convince them. "

Today seems like full of surprises as you come to understand Riku's strength and weaknesses more and more as the two of you continue to plan on how to tackle the mission. You suggest Nick should help infiltration and cause some chaos. But Riku points out that Nick is a walking magnet. He's at a delicate point where the church and several others are trying to bring him down. And he also points out that everyone knew that the fight in the arena between you and Nick was a sham but everyone still pretended to ignore Nick and support you. Like it or not, this country deeply hates the shield and willing to be hypocritical if it means knocking him down. Something that you really do not like, but you couldn't get off topic. The goal was to save Wyndia and the eggs, and possibly any other slaves at the farm. Still, you compromise that if things truly go south to bring Nick along.

Riku then confirms he has a stealth based sword like the chameleon spear. Considering all the monsters that Riku fought, he probably has the most monster based weapons out of the four heroes and a good chunk of beast based weapons. So in addition to both being able to disguise your weapons like Nick with the respective mundane items, you also had the means for near complete invisibility and masking presence. This was going to be quite helpful with sneaking in and setting the slaves free as well as gather further information if needed.

You would have to leave it to Elena to gather information about who was going to take part of the festive during the auction night. Although... Riku did here that most of the people weren't too famous...except for one man...Idol Rabier. He usually comes to pick up new slaves to play and break them according to Elena once you called her about the man.

con
>>
>>3492441

Either way, it seems like a plan was coming together swiftly as the two of you head to your respective team to tell them the news. Rifana unfortunately on the other hand was gripping her hand tightly. From experiences with Aden and Blake, you know that something was wrong. Like more than just her people being once again auction by slaves.

How do you tackle this?

>Give Rifana a Hug
>Ask what's wrong
> Try to change the subject
>Something Else
>>
>>3492455

Give Rifana a hug.

"Its okay. Those bastards won't be able to touch you while I'm here. You're stronger now too Rifana, you don't have to fear them anymore."

"Does this place look familiar to you?"
>>
>>3492477

Seconding this, also tell Elena to keep an eye on Rifana in case she freezes up during the misson because of her trauma and can’t move.
>>
>>3492477
>>3492486

You go to hug Rifana, reassuring her that she wasn't going to be taken once again. In addition, you remind Rifana that she has gotten stronger, much stronger than when she was captured and put to slavery. She looks down on the ground, tensing rather intensely.

"...I'm afraid....but more towards what I am going to do....to that man if I face him.....Idol Rabier!"

To understand what Rifana means, you asked her about who is Idol Rabier. Of course...deep down you got a sinking suspicion that he was the one...who tortured and abused Rifana. Rifana soon confirms your suspicions as she goes to explain that he was the owner of Rifana and her friends. He was the one who tortured and relentlessly made her and Raphtalia suffer immensely. It was an understatement to how much that Rifana was pissed. Yet she place her hand on yours while you still hug her through.

"..I want to make him pay...I want to brutalize him and torture him for every pain he inflicted upon the village children....including Raph-chan, Keel-kun and myself. However...I can keep my rage in check...We have to save Wyndia and the others. So..no matter how much I want to get my revenge. I'll subdue myself for the mission."

That....was a very grown up thing to do. It was almost hard to believe that Rifana was once the scared, timid and sickly weasel child that you took care of. Again you are met with the cruelty of the kingdom and how children like Rifana were forced to grow up and miss their childhood even outside of the Demi-human's signature attribute. Still, you ask Elena to keep an eye on Rifana to make sure she doesn't freeze up cause of her trauma or lose herself to the strong desire to murder everyone in the slave farm.

>How do you spend your time until the night of the break in?
>>
>>3492575

Also taking suggestion for weapon style/types for each one of the party members of the Irish spear hero currently or I'm just to keep winging it if you guys still fine with it.
>>
>>3492656
I mean our current strat seems to be working fine, at most I'd suppose giving Rifana a dedicated melee weapon to take advantage of her more developed physical state might be wise.

Personally, I'd suggest a spear for simplicity's sake as that means we can train her but a sword or other weapon could work just as well given our other party members can train her too.
>>
>>3492656
I think Rifana would work nice as Melee like Raphtalia, I'm not sure if she would also become ] a hero like Raph became the Katana Hero .

But we should also ask Rifana if she wants to be a ranged fighter or go in closeup as melee before we make a decision. She did use a sling-shot when she was still a child so she might prefer being ranged?

Elena is still a "spell blade type" character right?

Elena should be fine as is if so.
>>
>>3492656
I still think that idea of making her a bomberman is very viable now. She keeps at range until the moment proves advantages and then she blitz for the killing blow with explosives.

Its just that we have been trying to do the same thing ourselves, I think she can do the same thing and we can make the explosives ourselves.
>>
>>3492674

I think it would be more fitting to make her some kind of ranged fighter.

>>3492681

Why not just make her learn some basic fire spells, we don’t have to consistently make bombs that way.
>>
>>3492674
>>3492667
>>3492681
>>3492690

Gonna compromise these ideas unless someone tiebreaks it.

>>3492674

The hints are already there.

yes Elena is still a Spell Blade Type
>>
>>3492656
I figured Rifana still had her slingshot (and that sling another anon had really wanted for her) in addition to some flechettes for throwing while enhanced by her wind magic. If she learned anything from the rest of the party that would be great too.
>>3492681
Bomberman was one of my longer term goals as depending on how potions worked she could deliver ranged effects to the party (eg potion or holy water in balloon, attack with healing shiv) in the event something silences mages or healers.
>>3492575
I'm a bit torn about what to actually do. If we're close to level caps it might be a good idea for us to grind a bit while practicing stealth. Nobility are associated with slavery in this land and Rifa even said as much when we first met her. That means that the defenses there could have people above the limit cap as the Royal family is the one controlling people via restricting access to level cap items.. Riku should know the best PL spots.
>>
>>3492720
>>3492713

Yeah I got an idea now. Thanks for your help everyone.

Just one last question before you guys tell me your plans for the raid.

There will be a chance to recruit/obtain another party member. Do you care what gender they are ? If so what. Or should I soft change Freya since only one person spoke up
>>
>>3492720

Also you lot are around 35-36, so very close to the level cap. The Spear hero himself doesn't have to worry about it. Rest of the party is another story.
>>
>>3492727
Let's not change her gender, we've had her for a while now. It seems kind of wrong to do it,. at least to me
>>
>>3492727
I personally want a male party member, I don't want Spear hero to just be another Harem Isekai Protag.

After this mission if its possible we should grind out the rest of the levels and use the Dragon hour glass before we fight in the waves [spoilers] and against Glass [/spoilers].
>>
>>3492749
Dammit I screwed up the format, well at least the Anime had her appear already so I guess its not really a spoiler?
>>
>>3492749
Freyja should stay Female, but I definetly agree that the next party member should be male.
>>
>>3492758
This. We've got plenty of girls, we could use another bro.
Axe/mace boi for weapon variety?
>>
>>3492781
Beserker-type classes are my favorite, have the Mad Scotsman meet a Viking
>>
>>3492747
>>3492749
>>3492756
>>3492758
>>3492781

Thanks for your input. I have something in mind now.

Now get to planning your week. If you do training in between tactics, you'll be around 38-39 for the mission
>>
>>3492788

Do some training as a warm up for sure, I would prefer if we used the dragon hour glass before the next wave.

If what Riku said is true about Lucien getting us some extra time then we should use it to get stronger.
>>
>>3492727
I don't care what gender they are. Kind of awkward to change her name since she's named after a female god of sex/fertility that literally everything wanted to bang. Giving them their own love interest (imo) is usually the best way to solve the harem problem. Manga where women can have relationships other than with the MC tend to be the most awesome ones. Eg Jitsu Wa Watashi Wa

Andros has caused no issues with trying to seduce party members simply because he already has(had?) a love interest. Stereotypical japanese writing would have made him an annoying horny bastard going after somebody in the harem and being rejected as the readers would scream NTR if they actually succeeded in any love confessions.


It's kind of sad that the final friend (whom should be dead by now) was actually so powerful that if the country wasn't such a group of assholes, Melromarc would have a person that makes heroes look weak on their side. Or so I'm told. I can't really be sure since a sane spear hero is probably way more dangerous than an insane one in the long term.

We don't know how many hypocritical bridges we will burn if/when we get caught, so best to yoink some stuff we might need before they realize what's up.

There was something I wanted to point out, but I can't figure out what it is for the life of me.
>>
>>3492801
Ooh, now I remember. What are their laws of conquest?Technically every single one of the heroes are all subjects of a different Monarch.
Ergo is any land they "Conquer" or purchase technically in the name of their king/queen/Emperor? It could be a nasty surprise for the misc nations to find out that technically according to their very own rough international laws/customs they're giving away property.
>>
>>3492801

Less harem problem and more just party composition. I gotten one complain about our Blakesmith even though I asked, though I probably should've waited longer to see who was fishing. So I'm letting the gang decide this one.

>>3492816

The heroes aren't suppose to be tied to one kingdom. They're each spread out through the 4 directions in order to better combat the waves. So normally two legendary heroes meeting is suppose to be a rarity. Melromarc summoning all four is a VERY controversial problem that the Queen is currently dealing with. And that's not even beginning to take into account another certain individual currently crashing the meeting to berate and bitch slap the seven rulers for being dumb dumbs. The LN, Anime and Manga fans already know I'm talking about.

But yes, technically if they conquer something for a monarch/king/queen/emperor it's theirs.
>>
>>3492796

You'll have time after the meeting to go to the Dragon's Hourglass since they're so close to one another.

Since nobody got anything else, I'm just going to use this otherwise speak up.
>>
>>3492894
I'm certain that I either forgot that meeting or
Oh god Mynne is in for a nasty surprise if she still tries her coup using the bow hero and he points out she gave him the rights to the entire country by conquest and she's been demoted to a governess at best.
>>3492900
The holy water would be good if we can sneak it, it should be obvious to us that Nick can't get it on his own although I was personally just going to request that a supply transport of it be on hand in the event of strong undead that require holy water/oil applied to weapons or against curses during a wave.
>>
>>3492909
Good idea about sneaking Holy Water for Nick, this universe is obviously diffrent from the original LN and he might not be able to get it for himself this time.

Other then that I agree with the other anon that we should train as a warm up.
>>
>>3492909
Honestly, if bow boy pulled that off, I'd have some respect for him as a smug asshole. Myne's reaction would be fucking priceless.

>>3492920
Training warm up would be nice.
>>
Starting to lose the sense of time happening here. Cant we already teleport to a couple of these places, and isnt blake really fast?
>>
>>3492940
I'm not sure what's going on with the portal spear really. I figured unlocking it would let us port the party members between towns/cathedrals easily but since it never happened whenever I think i said to port out I figured we have another spear/requirement to unlock first.
>>
>>3492940

All your adventure so far after the second wave amounts to two weeks and three days. The meeting would be on a sunday for obvious reasons. So 4 days but since Lucian bought you some time you got 10 days total. Afterwards, you'd only have one week to prepare/do shit before the wave happens. That's 31 days total for this wave.
>>
>>3492989

It teleports you to places you been. You're traveling through carriage to where the slave farm is held. Everywhere else you want to go that you already went to is complete fair game.
>>
File: DQiyFym.jpg (104 KB, 882x1129)
104 KB
104 KB JPG
Lastly let's address what Andros looks like visually.
>>
>>3493007

Originally I was thinking this but he's the younger brother of Van so that wouldn't fit since it's more older brother tier. And you'll more likely be calling him dad than your bro. At least that's what I think.
>>
>>3492995
I'm kind of wondering how Elena and co are reacting to some of these revelations. We casually drop some bombshells of major religious significance.
Learning that there was an actual manual for the heroes to learn about the world but the summoning botched it via pulling them in early feels like an earth shattering revelation.
>>3493000
Ah, so a mental map problem on my end. I figured we were closer to the Castle town, so we wasted time walking the long way when we could have ported, yoinked supplies from the castle town before we burn any bridges, and gone to the meeting place quicker.

Slaves tend to be the best spies due to always being ignored or not thought of as a threat. Rifa probably has their entire hierarchy and web of enslavement seals plotted out for us by the end of the day.
>>
Oh, sorry if I caused a mess about the female thing. I just got a little annoyed since I fear harem stuff. I vote for a Berserker as our next companion.
>>
>>3493013

Elena is a skeptic realist. She was already doubting the legends until the first wave happened. You being the prime example gives her ammo for days. [Spoiler]Probably would've been burned by the cross if she openly says that.[/spoiler]

Andros mainly believed in the church of the four saints rather than the three heroes. But after what has happened to him....he has no faith whatsoever.

Vivian comes from a kingdom built from their relationship with heroes. So..rather disappointed and depressed that the stories aren't true.

Melody is adapting far better than anyone else in the group. Course that's mostly cause she has her own basket case of problems and mainly just been putting her faith in you.

Blake is a dragon, they don't give no fucks about religion.

Rifana believed in the stories about the four heroes but reality from the first wave broke her child-like ideology. So like Andros...probably an atheist.

Freya just goes with the flow. She isn't religious in the slightest and believes what's in front of her as the real deal. But she is totally into luck based superstition and supernatural stuff though. Elena has to keep Freya from gambling.

Aden well she's the odd one out for coming from a land that believes primarily in the shield hero. More the reason for that later down the line. Not that she could openly practice it in where she is at for obvious reasons. She gotten used to your antics to really be blown away by these religion bombs.
>>
>>3493021

It's fine. I have and will keep offering what the group as a whole wants. If they want a harem they go try to make one happen. If they don't, then that's fine too. Story isn't changing no matter what relationship options you choose. You just got to put in the effort into actually romancing them though.
>>
>>3493013

You're not going to castle town. Your going to a basically a massive farm/hunting area that's like a three day travel normally. One day if you want to go full ham with Blake. If the place was in castle town, nobody would be asking Lucien to buy time. Technically you didn't have to then if you want to do it imminently once you got there. Riku is just thinking ahead.
>>
>>3492575
I should give an action, since no one has. Lets ride Blake for a little bit and get some practice in. Maybe we can launch an attack from above.
>>
>>3493051
Teleport to an area with monsters to kill, ride around with Blake and lure monsters and have Elena and Rifana take out the monsters, and you support with Lightning Spear since it could be used as ranged.

This will also train Rifana with whatever weapon she decides to use.
>>
>>3493051
Ah right. Telling our own allies the plan is probably something.Sleeping drugs in the food and grab the head dudes to sever the slave connections from there?

It is highly amusing to me how just outright done everyone is with this world's shit.
>>
>>3493051
>>3492924
>>3492920
>>3492796

You decide to risk it by having Blake go at half their max speed. You are confident that if you went max speed it would easily take a day at most, perhaps lower if you really want to risk your lives from the whiplash. With just the two day half-speed method, the worst you had to deal with was motion sickness. The entire party for this mission is questioning your decision choice for this. They don't call you the Mad (Irish) Spear Hero for nothing.

In the rests from the fast traveling, you decide to spend time practicing through fighting moblings.
Mobblings were still fine to fight and kill since most of them were basic creatures that attack you on sight cause they're aggressive creatures trying to kill you for their own purposes. Sentient creatures were a hit or miss since unless they attack first, there was no reason to fight them if it can be avoided. And if there was no way to save them or knock them out, then mercy killing would be better than party wipe'd. It was just like any other survival situation.

In the time during training, something surprises you about Rifana. For some reason, she was getting rather good using...basically any weapon you handed her. Both of you aren't sure if it was instincts or just natural talent. However, you think back to what the Queen's shadow told you about Rifana's heritage. Coming from a line of legendary warriors can do that, especially given from what you understand about Demi-humans so far. In addition, you started develop tactics based around Rifana's speed. She was faster than Freya but Blake were faster while Freya was more acrobatic than both Rifana and Blake. Even so, Rifana was no slouch especially when boosting by wind magic and was more balanced in between. You practically have a wolf/cheetah pack with Andros added to the four in terms of speed base tactics.

Rifana started carrying potions to deliver range effects including bomberman-ish stuff. You know Vivian would undoubtedly like it just like Blake does. She uses her altered slingshot for additional range if needed. Otherwise, Rifana ultimately settled for a more melee based weapon...the hammer. In addition to it's amazing power, the destroyed rubber served as ammo for her to shoot at enemies with her hammer in a baseball/gofting kind of way. Very resourceful that crazy weasel.

con
>>
I am thinking of this far too late, but can Melody teach Rifa some of her shapeshifting? She'd be the best at sowing confusion or grabbing batches or slaves for us to unseal since she can pretend to be one of the subordinates that the slaves have been ordered to listen to, so she could get them out without setting off any slave seal settings.
>>
>>3493090

Seems like the most common tactic used by the party during the hunt was >>3493054 . An overall successful experience, but it gave more of a chance to study how Rifana uses her new weapon. You knew her to always been crafty and thinking with her head since the first time she picked the slingshot for the weapon. It becomes more apparent to you just how much each of the party members accumulated to Rifana's growth and experience. Deflecting and withstanding blows from Aden, disruption and counter attacks from Freya, applying magic into the weapon and augmenting the body from Elena, Chaining different magics and fast casting from Vivian, Healing, defensive magic and dispelling magic and magic like effects from Melody, evasions and sneak attack/stunning moves from Andros, maneuverability and a sixth sense for action/reflexes by Blake, and lastly polearm fighting from you especially. She was the sum of everyone's strengths and effort. It did your heart proud just how much of a positive influence you and the rest of the party have on her. She was the real deal after all.

Your efforts through training pretty much pushed everyone nearing the forty mark while you yourself was around exactly forty in your levels. Perfect for the mission at hand and giving you time to map out the area and discuss your plans with each other. >>3493055


Riku on the other hand was around the 45-50s range. Just a five level difference from you. Yet you know that levels don't mean everything. As someone who is a solo player like Riku is. You get the feeling that he was well prepared to fight multiple party members like he was a boss fight. His evasion skills must be absurd especially if he was able to beat a dragon by himself. Still, the fact that rather than train himself he would instead look after his party shows...bit by bit he's starting to grow.

Tersia and Farrie impress you deeply as despite being close to where your party is, they're well adapt and trained to fight together and separately. A martial artist and a ranger with duel wielding under his belt, that certainly gives leverage why Riku personally chose them out of his four man squad for the mission.

con
>>
Do you guys have a method for getting the slaves out of the farm enmasse? As well as where we are taking them? This is very important.
>>
>>3493097

She knows shapeshifting and illusion magic. Aden oddly enough is teaching her Therianthropy. Currently she got as far as turning into a small weasel. You embarrassed the hell out of her for being so cute.
>>
>>3493107

With training and preparations done, you and your party arrived directly as schedule for the slave farm raid as it was night time. And to your luck the head of the slave farm was there.

>What's the plan ?
>>
>>3493119
We have the cover of darkness, we should keep a low profile and scout out a bit of the area before we do anything rash.

Only go on the offensive if we are spotted, stick to guerrilla tactics and don't go charging in recklessly if we do have to go on the offensive.
>>
>>3493110
As far as I know, a large-scale slave breakout isn't what we have planned. We're just here for Wyndia.
>>
>>3493126
Check for security who are patrolling the area, I doubt the head of the slave farm would want his “precious merchandise” unguarded.
>>
>>3493132
I agree that this should be the priority, but I have a feeling Rifana may want us to free the slaves if its possible.
>>
>>3493136
Freeing all the slaves would be great, but it isn't really feasible for us given the size of our force, the fact that slavery is legal in this world, and the reputation we need to maintain as a hero. I'm sure Rifana is smart enough to understand that, even if we'd like it to be otherwise.
>>
>>3493132
That village was the straw that broke the camel's back. All of the heroes are starting to go rogue.
>>3493119
We want this quiet. We don't know how connected this guy is to the royal family, but the fact that Rifa was in the castle dungeon says that they might try to reset us to level 1 when their good "friend" has been slaughtered by the heroes. We cut off or take over their communication/alarm systems first and try not to get recorded on any crystal balls.


>>3493155
Being legal doesn't make it right (Which we're gonna need to be explaining to Nick eventually at this point) and after all of the nobles and the King openly displayed a disgust of slavery to fuck with Nick we technically got cause/support for no longer tolerating it. We're a hero, not some bitch on the sidelines as people are in need of rescue.
>>
>>3493162
I never said slavery was right. I only have two reasons for being against freeing all the slaves: first, because of the dumbass reputation we need to maintain if we don't want to get fucked over the way Nick is; and second, we don't have the planning, the manpower, or the resources to pull it off for this particular mission. >>3493110 raises important questions that we just don't have answers to, not to mention whether or not we can actually guarantee the slaves' safety thanks to the slave crests. Once Lucien does his coup, hopefully we can convince him to make slavery illegal if he doesn't do it on his own. Fuck this shitty kingdom.
>>
The taking them part is the hard part. If we knew where the next wave was we could train them up a little and they could use the confusion to escape.
We had quite a bit of time to plan in the story.

Anyone he hires doesn't have to be strong since the slaves are the true fighting force. It's a clear organizational weakness we can target until we run into a random strong dude.
If we can abduct the proper chain of command against the slavers we can force them to remove the seals.

This guy is such a piece of work we won't be able to bring ourselves to just leave the rest of the slaves there to die even if it's just letting them escape into the wilderness. (Maybe port back to our dragon cave?)
Pretend we ran into a demihuman village and we invited them to join our party?
The hard part here is proper financing for their meals if they can't hunt/forage without devastating the local wildlife.

There are problems, but they are not as big as you think if we can avoid having to fight the slaves. If the alarm go off and the slaves get alerted then it'll make a zombie apocalypse look tame.

Ooh. New idea. If Nick is a tech genius he could make video/audio editing software to give the illusion of a specific person giving an order.
>>
>>3493200
>>3493178
So uh yeah. It's not impossible to come up with ideas. It's just a limitation of us not actually having the same amount of time as the characters do to present them. Instead we pitch them and see which one has the most feasible planning that can be done by the characters.
>>
>>3493126
>>3493133
>>3493162

On the night of the planned break in, both your party and Riku's decided to keep a low profile. Taking the time and caution to notice just how many guards were active during your scouting. It seemed to be around fifty to a hundred trained guards and a few corrupted knights. You can probably still take them but you don't want to make a scene and force yourself into a fight when you don't have to.

Using transformation based potions made with the combined effort of Melody and Vivian, the lot of you were able to disguise yourself accordingly to that of distinguished guests to get passed the guards. The excuse you used to get inside was accepted as you continue to examine the scene. The two of you split yourselves into two teams. Riku's team was to find and locate the monster eggs while your team was tasked on finding Wyndia. Honestly you wish you could save the slaves and abolish this farm, but those weren't in the cards.

Rifana already came to the conclusion that freeing all of the slaves would be next to impossible with their current numbers. There was no way to transport all of them. And even then, there wasn't exactly a base to secure them in either. Not only that, there was the nagging suspicion that the one running this place could have direct ties to the higher ups, including the royal family.

You can naturally tell how much Rifana is angry about this. However, she keeps herself in check. The hero's image was important and needed to be maintained above all else...at least until the Queen returns. Till then, they will just have to endure it. But neither the party or you will forget this. One day, you will make such things no longer possible for this kingdom to do.

After snooping around and sneaking through, Blake starts to sniff through their nose. It seems that the baby dragon toy was handy after all. For Blake had indeed caught wind of where Wyndia was held. It was both funny yet weird to be using a dragon as a tracking dog. But name any other creature as exceptional acute senses on the same level as Blake's. You did this slow, steady and by the books as Blake leads you to where Wyndia is. Meanwhile Rifana and Elena were doing their part in this as they continue to have no trouble with their job.

con
>>
>>3493202

I can wait to finish once you decided on what you wanted to do in unison or continue as I am
>>
>>3493206
Nah. Keep on going. It's 2AM so I might be useless for future voting at any point from now on anyway.
Not taking them all? Cool. We fuck this guy over in some other way later when all hell breaks loose.
>>
>>3493090
Wait what? What rubber? Actual hammer weapons dont use rubber. Mallets only have rubber because their job is to push things into place WITHOUT breaking the object(or itself). Not very good for breaking armor.

Also we could get a rubber spear.
>>
>>3493206
I feel like the consensus of most of the anons is that we not try to free all of the slaves for now since there is no way to manage escaping with all of the slaves.

For now focus on the main misson, head to where Wyndia is, see what’s going on there.
>>
>>3493219

Rubble not rubber. I'm ashamed of myself for not noticing that little hick up.

And considering how material happy Flurry is, a rubber spear is probably in his arsenal.
>>
>>3493205

All seems to go quite well as you ultimately make your way to where the slaves were being held. Using the chameleon spear with Blake piggy back on you, you successfully manage to avoid the alarms thanks to Blake seeing them with their dragon sight. It would take you much slower to manage to disable them all without setting off an alarm, but you manage to do so with the jamming magic that Vivian taught to you during one of the many classes.

With those out of the way, you manage to maneuver your way directly to where Wyndia was being held. When you reached her, you was positively sicken by what you seen. It was almost the exact same condition that you remember seeing Rifana. Wyndia was lying against the giant cell. She was cold, abused, tired, hungry and arguably broken with her doll like eyes. You get the feeling to prepare her for slavery she was relentlessly tortured and abuse until the will in her was practically broken.

You didn't even need to see Blake to feel the immense anger that was flowing from their body. The only thing that kept Blake from tearing down the cage was you.

> So what do you do next?
>>
>>3493230
Free her?

Do we need to specifically vote to check for traps or mirrors or something?
>>
>>3493237

Yes, free her goes without saying. But there's still other slaves and things that you could possibly do.
>>
>>3493230
Free Wyndia, let Blake comfort her and tell her that “Everything is okay, we’re going to set you free”.

Examine the other cells, maybe we could take a portion of the slaves this asshole owns with us.
>>
>>3493230
>I'm assuming that we take her elsewhere for the slave seal removal somehow, so we have to keep up the act of being some new jailer until the seal is off, lest we trigger something. That's really the biggest flaw in our planning and we can only hope the shadows are coming through for us on that end.
>Seems that someone has taken an interest in paying to use you during the waves. Be silent and drink this. Use a sleeping potion we had prepared. Blake flies out with her to our rendezvous point or whatever party members are outside. thanks to the cover of night so that we don't have to risk being caught on the ground thanks to her lack of concealment.
>Take a couple more. If we take too many one of em might figure it out and start a chain reaction on the slave brands before we can remove them.
>>
>>3493237
>>3493248
>>3493254

It goes without saying that through the power of the spear, you use the rubber spear form to make the bars as stretchy as rubber. Thereby allowing you to safely pull Wyndia from her cell without leaving any traces or marks on the cell. Once you did that, you used the Rubber Spear to reconfigure the cell back to it's original form via "Elasticity" weapon skill. You see Wyndia slowly turning to you while Blake ends up jumping off your back and landing on to the ground.

>>3493254 is what you tell the doggy girl before leaving the rest to Blake. Blake on the other hand starts to pet her head. While giving a rather comforting look before handing the sleeping potion for Wyndia to drink Blake helped them drink the substance. Without further adieu, the potion manages to put her out without a fight. You then leave it to Blake to use their camouflage skill to avoid being detected. Through the combination of that plus Blake's dragon wings, they were able to travel to the rendezvous point without notice.

That just left you to look at the other slaves. Although you said you were only focused on saving Wyndia. There was something in your heart that just couldn't be satisfied with just rescuing one of them. So against logic and reasoning, you decide to smuggle more of the slaves. Not too many more but just enough to sneak out without drawing attention or causing the slave owner to try and cause a chain reaction on the slave seals. They weren't like the one that Melody has. Even so, causing constant pain until the slave is forced to do whatever they can to make it stop would undoubtedly do permanent mental damage to their psyche. And that was something you could not have happen above all else.

On Riku's end he was smuggling the monster eggs that carried the same scent as Gaelion. The Legendary Sword made it easier for him to find. Transporting monster eggs were easier than actual slaves His team were making sure that the guards wouldn't notice the stealing as Riku took what he can. Part of him was really tempted to release the other monsters and cause a massive panic that would give some sort of chance to smuggle more slaves out. But he re-framed from doing so, instead trying to use his sword phone which was your idea for the record to try and contact you.

"The monster eggs have been captured. We're ready to leave unless you want me to cause a riot with these monsters so you can try and free some more slaves or need a decoy?"

con
>>
>>3493378

That was certainly an option to consider but it was still dangerous as without the one who can remove slave crests, the ringleader will probably make the slaves fight the monsters for amusement until the guards were ready to restrain them. As you continue to think about what do do next, you would see a rather odd sight in the distance.

The person was wearing a large mantle cloak and had very long hair. The darkness of the area made it hard for you to tell who exactly were they. Despite this, you ended up burning his smile on to memory while he was looking elsewhere. They were very strange indeed. But was truly strange...was the fact they were holding what appears to be...a book of sorts. Although...it looked more like a grimoire as it has a jewel at the center. Although you couldn't make out their face considering it was dark. There was something tell you inside your soul that this was a rather....creepy feeling you was getting from the predicament.

"...Ah ha....This must be quite the lucky day. ...I just came here to collect some new samples...and look at that? ...My perfect test subject is here...what good timing~ Now I can see rather or not...she is as good as the real deal. I be rather disappointed if she ended up like the rest....that would just be a bother~"

The book starts to open up as pages begin to turn...all on it's own. This must be some sort of magic that was going on. As you watch in silence, trying to figure out what the strange man meant by the words...the book suddenly stops. It was floating up in his hand, further proving that it wasn't an ordinary book.

「Summoning Magic...Cerberus」

A blinding light engulfs the entirety of the slave holding center. A dark spell circle forms around the farm as something ominous starts to materialize.

>What do you do ?

Here's another divergence from the original story. A mysterious intruder holding a magic book has appeared out of nowhere. Surrounded in mystery, he brings for a twist of calamity.
>>
File: Cerberus_1.png (2.06 MB, 1920x1080)
2.06 MB
2.06 MB PNG
>>3493393

forth* fuck I'm tired.
>>
>>3493393

>Check what's happening outside
>Follow after the Mysterious Man
>Call your friends
>Something else
>>
>>3493393
What's the spear of Lust's ability? I want to assume it's Gae Bolg's always strike the heart but I just wanted to know before I yelled 'Kill the bastard!'
>>
>>3493399
I think we're going to need to know what spears we have, unless we just pull whatever kinds of powers are level appropriate
>>
>>3493559
I wonder how useful the legends are. There's supposed to only be one Cerebrus (another one existing is game logic to the core if it isn't actually an attempt at recreating the legend after some fan of Greece/Rome was summoned was summoned. That's a pretty big window since Riku's little extra century or so was actually the periord in time when Europe went full weeaboo over ancient Rome and ignored just about everything they had learned since which is why they have so much influence to this day. As a historian we'd never actually believe in that dark ages claptrap Riku was talking about. He must have gotten that from Nick.) but the thing might share the same weakness to sweets or music. It will never will never stop being hilarious that this guy summoned the mighty SPOT!


>>3493393
>PM the party. I think a safe spot is no longer the an option if the doggy notices us,.
Creepy dude with magic book mumbling about experiments ported in. Do you recognize him Rifa? Beware before he trips an alarm.
>Follow after the mysterious man creepy dude mumbling about experimentation. And that see but not see line had better not be about Blake.
>

Random cool idea, but I don't know how full legendaboo we went to be able to do it, so I'm looking for input.
What if we pulled out a marker and invoked Fenrir in Norse runes on one of the slaves? I'm sure most of you guys know about it being impossible for the norse gods to chain it fenrir so sympathetic magic and runes might make the person we write that on inherently unchainable by the slave seal.
>>
>>3493602
Seconding this, but also I think we should take out the Summoner with some kind of ranged attack, try to one shot him so he can’t summon anymore of those things.
>>
>>3493559
>willing to hear suggestions while I update your spears
>>
Youtube suddenly started giving me history videos ever since this quest started and I'm learning that peasant food is way better than whatever we were getting served at the gala/dinner.
It's just a bunch of lightly spiced chicken, and a basic tart. You don't even really have bread and get a square plate representing the bread you're giving to charity.

>>3493711
That's an option, but we could also let them take the brunt of the blame for the "theft." The problem is they opened up with the sounds like a slightly mad wizard routine.
I'm a little tempted to do something stupid like "Greetings fellow intruder. What might you be here for?"
>>
>>3493723
I mean, I COULD overload you with 15 more methods to stack debuffs so that at any moment at least 5 will be effective at whatever we fight, but that seems unsporting and impractical for this quest.

But for real, we're only pulling out these weird weapons because the power levels on monsters and even storebought/created weapons aren't defined.

So I guess I'll just shoot off some items?
>Grease
>Javelin
>Rune(handcarved into some metal ores)
>Tar(from the dragon? Or a swamp?)
>Explosives/Firecrackers
>Hourglass, pocketwatch, grandfatherclock
>Lock
>Threshing Machine
>Pinwheel
>Paper airplane
>Wooden Stake
>Pestle
>Sponge
>Pile(Foundation)
>Shikigami, talismans, amulets, charms, dreamcatchers
>Spoiled Milk, Dragon Dung, Rusty clumps
>Mercury, Arsenic, Lead
>Ink, Paint, Eggwhite
>Gravestone, Coffin

None of these involve monsters that we kill, even if you could possibly get a stronger monster equivalent of several of them.
>>
>>3493602
>>3493711

Anyone else got ideas or else I'm gonna go with this

>>3493751

Will add these, but Shikigami/talisman will not be included atm, plot reasons relating to future stuff.
>>
>>3493733
Its probably not a good idea to interact with the summoner who literally summoned a hell hound that is going to tear apart the slaves imprisoned.

>>3493711
I agree that we should try to take out the summoner since he hasn't noticed us yet.

First ask Rifana if this summoner is significant or not, if this man has terrorized her or she doesn't know him, take him out.

Lightning Spear him in the neck then take out the Cereberus for materials.
>>
>>3493783
The idea was that if he tries to fight us then his own plans get ruined by the noise of the fight since he's not strong enough to take on the entire castle either. Basically a mexican standoff.
>>
>>3493787
He just summoned a Cerberus to attack some unidentified girl for the sake of "experimentation." I don't think he's particularly concerned about going loud.

>>3493711
Supporting. Prioritize the spawner so we don't get overwhelmed.
>>
>>3493796
Ah. I was interpreting it as him sneaking in the middle of the night to steal from the castle too since the key word here is intruder. Now that i'm seeing a more malevolent tone we can totally gank him.
>>
>>3493529

Spear of Lust's First Stage Skill is Temptation. It amplifies ones feelings thus giving them more power. Greatly enhancing one's physical ability and magic/weapon skills as it turns crimson. At the cost it intensifies the feelings of the enemy to ensure lustful actions can be taken. When this is over, one experiences lack of euphoria for some time before returning to normal.

>>3493796

The Cerberus is actually summoned directly at the party/auction, course you're going to learn about that in the next official post.

Made some updates to the spear list, going to keep at it slowly. Would've done it sooner but stomach pains. Apologies all around.
>>
>>3493602
>>3493711
>>3493796
>>3493783

With the power of the Spear, you manage to avoid being completely blinded by the intense light that came from the book. Yet even though you manage to overcome the light, the strange intruder was still not recognizing you. It was almost like he was looking at the book as it produce moving pictures for him to see. Like some sort of pop up book where he can forsee the events that are happening elsewhere.

You tried to make small talk with him first, thinking that he must be another intruder. Maybe you could even get him to help you break the slaves out especially if he's the one the shadows brought to you to break their seal. Unfortunately, your words >>3493733 fell on deaf ears as he focused more on his book than anything else.


"Good Good....Cerberus has been summoned. It was rather disappointing seeing it in combat with the village where test subject 666 was born in her original state. But it couldn't be helped....the trauma wasn't enough to awaken her true power given that she wasn't compatible to releasing it unlike now. And I did manage to capture Cerberus from the event..."

The way this guy was talking and mumbling to himself sound like he was in his own little world. Completely focused on the task at hand rather than paying attention to his surroundings. The shadows continue to cover his appearance for the moment. So you still couldn't get a read on him even when you try using Spear Identification to try and see his status. All it said was Unknown Entity.

As you call Rifana to try and get an understanding of the party right now, you was met with screams and terror. A terror that was almost forgotten as you recall Rifana having night terrors about the attack. She once mentioned to you that her village was attacked by a multi-headed beast and many of her people, including her parents were killed. It doesn't take you long to put two and two together. You quickly switch to that of Lightning Spear, not giving the mysterious man any more chances. You release Spear Thrust in conjunction to use the Lightning Thrust variant in order to try and hit the mysterious intruder.

con
>>
>>3493871
Hey, if this was followed the Greek myth of Cerberus, then can't we just get the honey spear and make a pile of honey. And then just leave his because we're not supposed to be here guys.
>>
>>3493917

Despite your powerful lightning attack traveling true, it was deflected by one of the pages. As it took a giant hand to essentially slap the lightning upwards into the ceiling and make a massive hole. With the ceiling giving off illumination, you would see the mysterious man in full glory. He looked to be a well groomed scientist of military-like style. He had white hair and wore a pair of round glasses on his pale complexion. His golden eyes dart from the book to directly look at you rather boringly. He then slowly scratches his head before closing his eyes and giving a small smile.

"Ah, Sorry sorry. See I'm a scientist with exceptionally high intelligence. Almost too much since I get so many ideas that I end up being a bit chatty. But since I normally prefer working alone, I end up talking to myself a lot. But..."
「Sealing Magic - Faust Bind」

He slowly turns to you, pointing his finger as a powerful spell circle marks itself on your chest. You suddenly found yourself unable to move. This was just the first spell level and yet it feels much stronger than it should be. He gives a soft smile before looking back to his book as Rifana's image was indeed on the book as the pop up Cerberus was attacking the nobles and participates and doing a bang up job of causing calamity. Idol Raiber was oddly enough taken away by several cloaked individuals. Leaving the rest of the corrupt nobles to defend for themselves...rather poorly.

"..judging from what you tried to say to me. It sounds like...you know subject 666. That's wonderful~ You can tell me in great detail how she has grown. Is she the same? Are there any defects? I would be disappointed if I couldn't succeed in recreating that lightning bottle in a can."

Just who is this guy? In just a span of a second he ended up not only deflecting your attack without looking but also made you unable to move.

>How do you respond
>Try to Break Out of the Seal
>Talk to the Scientist
>Call for Blake/Riku
>...Use Spear of Lust
>Something Else
>>
>>3493920

You can try to do that if you want.
>>
File: LNv7.06.png (1.05 MB, 718x1024)
1.05 MB
1.05 MB PNG
>>3493955

Unknown Entity
>>
>>3493955
“Just who are you, what the hell did you do to me?!”

Don’t use spear of lust just yet, that would give away our location to every single guard outside since we would go beserk.
>>
>>3493920
I kinda mentioned that we could try that or music.
A bit late now and I'm not sure that we care about stopping it's rampage on the nobles.
>>3493955
>Question him in turn while doing whatever signal we have for an extra strong problem.
>You sound like a mad scientist in old serials.I have no love for Idol Rabier but I'd find it inconvenient if he up and died before the seals came off. (Elena probably told us about the slaves dying if the master does so we can't let them kill him.)
>>
>>3493917

"Although, he certainly made a mess by the time I caught him. Reproducing hounds to spread throughout the land....it's not even from this world and already it adapted quite well and manage to spawn countless offsprings. It ended up being very valuable information for me"

Forgot this
>>
>>3493966
Oh shit its the fucking Book Hero

"What is someone of your caliber doing here, no one ordinary should be able to seal me like this."
>>
>>3493988
>>3493994
>>3493999


You couldn't find yourself able to move so you start to question the mysterious entity. While at the same time, you as using your menu to send an urgent warning to your party. The mysterious person looks at you, making you sweat up a storm while you keep your poker face in check. He ends up smiling and closing his eyes, simultaneously scratching the back of his head.

"Oh I'm sorry. I forgot to introduce myself...For now let's just have you call me Kyo.I'm just a traveling scientist collecting information. Don't worry, I have no intention of harming you right now. Although....you're much weaker than I would have expected."

That certainly stung hard in the heart. Honestly it made you rather angry and upset. Then again, this guy seem to managed to completely freeze you in place with beginner tier magic despite the fact the quality in it was much higher. You'd argue if he was on the same level as Vivian...or much higher in comparison. He slowly started to walk to you in order to then place his hand on your chest.

"「Full Access Identification」"

A sharp jolt travels through your body. From head to toe you felt the surging energy pulsating inside of you as your entire sense of self was being looked upon. Your memories, your thoughts, your experiences, everything that holds records of what makes you you and what you know was being read. Everything was in full view and there was no secrets between the two of you. This was way different than the identification spell that both the help menu and Vivian taught you.

"Ahaha, I did it after all~ She turned out perfectly as I expected she would. Of course she hasn't unlocked her full potential yet...but I'm sure Cerberus will draw it out her now. You have my thanks for raising her well....Spear Hero."

He remove his hand from your chest, the knowledge printing itself on to the book before disappearing as he closes it.

"Now I need to head off and observe from afar. The binding spell I put on you will disappear once I'm gone. So don't worry. Course by then...the testing will already be over. Either Cerberus will kill her...or subject 666 will unlock what lies deep within and obliterate Cerberus. And don't worry about Idol Rabier. Several of my willing subjects are taking him away. I still have a use for a parasite like him."

He turns his back on you, using what appears to be some sort of wind related reinforcement magic to start lifting himself up in the air. He begins to ascend upwards based out on the hole that was made earlier.

"Survive the waves Spear Hero. You have to keep getting stronger for my sake as well as the world's. Though...that's only depends if you don't self-destruct and destroy it yourse-"

Before he can finish, he would find himself blocking a powerful punch by Blake of all people with the brunt of his elbow. He opens his golden eyes to glance at the Gothic Lolita Dragon. A small smile starts to form on his face.

con
>>
>>3493999
I doubt we’re in the mood for this but he sounds like the sort of person we’d be able to bribe with books/stories from our world.
>>
>>3494024

"How amusing...so this world still does have purebreed dragons too? Today is just full of surprises."

"Blake doesn't know who you are. But Blake won't tolerate anyone who hurts Blake's master!"

"And the dragon talks too? Now I'm really invested in you. "

Seems like your suspicion of Blake getting kidnapped one day was certainly about to happen. So good on you for preparing a bunch of anti-theif methods. Especially since Blake seemingly teleported from Kyo's grasp and wounds up several meters away from him.

>What do you do?
>>
>>3494029

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QV5ZBuNJMx0
>>
>>3494029
“Leave my Dragon alone, you came here to spectate whatever thing you were trying to unlock in Rifana. My dragon has nothing to do with this.”

“Blake, I’m okay stay close to me. This guy is too strong for us without the others.”

Gesture for Blake to come to us.
>>
>>3494029
See if we can use any of our spears.
Switch to portal spear and gap Blake out of the area. Then make a portal below us out of the area as well. Is Wydia still with us? Portal her first.
>>
>>3494029
Struggle against the binding.

"Leave Blake alone, you ass! Fuck off and spectate already!"

"Blake, get away from him. He's too strong for us to handle. I'll be fine. He can't afford to kill me."

>>3494060
I don't think we can move yet since Kyo isn't gone.
>>
>>3494060
This and also struggle against the bindings so that we can free ourselves and get to Rifana.
>>
>>3494060
>>3494069
>>3494084

Kyo was still high in the air thanks to the wind magic. Blake on the other hand was also in the air but teleported a fair distance between him. Blake kept up on their guard, preparing to use a strong dragon's breath on him. However, Kyo just move his book towards it as it starts to take shape. His smile only grows after seeing Blake in action. Blake gathered enough mana before huffing and puffing their chest largely as they take aim.

"「Dragon's Breath!」"

"Let's compare...「Summoning Magic Dragon's Breath」"

The two of them release a powerful breath of pure mana as it creates a rather powerful explosion between the two. You think you would watching some sort of high classed anime or action cartoon as it was clear it was going to be a beams struggle. Blake was obviously angry that the book has manifest the head of a rather large dragon and using it to do the same attack. Worst of all, ti seem like Kyo was gradually pushing Blake back. Yet Blake was stubbornly refusing to admit defeat until >>3494060
>>3494084

Blake swallows their dragon pride and moves out of the way just in time to avoid the Dragon's breath. It travels across the land and leaves for a rather large explosion akin to that of a missile.
>>3494069 You manage to barely move your arm to use Portal Spear to teleport Blake to you before making another portal to teleport you both and even Wyndia to a safe location.

"..Well that was a clever move. And he's right...I do need to get back on schedule for the next phase. "

With that he goes off to spectate in peace as the seal on you disappears like he said it would. So what do you do now?

>Head to the Auction
>Redirect the Slaves to Freedom
>Call Riku
>Something else
>>
>>3494118
Call Riku

“Riku, Rifana is in danger and there is a really strong enemy nearby. We need to regroup and find Rifana”

“The enemy can seal us with spells and he wants to do something to Rifana so stay on your toes.”

Use the portal spear and bring the slaves we had freed to the original rendezvous, instruct Elena to head to their and direct the slaves somewhere safe. Then regroup with us and Riku to taken on the Cerebus.
>>
>>3494150
Supporting.

Also QM how far away is Nick?

If worse comes to worse, we might need help and three heroes if Kyo decides to attack us if we try to save Rifana.

Could we also portal our party members to us to help if we do get attacked by Kyo?
>>
>>3494118
>Scientist? Are you the wondering Alchemist!?
>>
>>3494189

He's in the woods with Raph and Filo Taking care of Second Princess Melty
>>
>>3494203
A man like him can make deals. We say he can examine Melody's Slave Seal and then he erases it.
>>
>>3494024
Oh that's bad. That's really bad. The mad scientist just got a massive database on thousands of horrific monsters and tunnel vision for Rifa is the only thing that's stopped him from noticing.

>>3494118
I think I missed something since I didn't know there was an auction. Is that where Rifa is? I think we can use the phone spear to calm the fake Cerebrus down with some misc classical music or tempt it via something sweet like the honey spear or ice cream? Is it really freedom if they still got the seal on?
>>
>>3494213

The slave farm has a lot of bad things like gladiatorial fighting/chicken fights and slave trading/auction. Elena and Rifa were in the Slave auction to keep things from escalating while you and blake rescued the slaves and Riku's group rescue the eggs.
>>
>>3494208
Okay, we'll call him if things really go south. We can't play around with Kyo.

The portal spear should be able to bring him here I think...
>>
>>3494235
So what you're saying is that in the auction house, right now there is a dude that can remove slave/transfer slave seals, and we could easily trick the entire room of nobles into giving us ownership of every slave in this entire place?
>>
>>3494254

For speeding the story, I am going to exactly be saying that. Currently you think that person is Kyo however.
>>
>>3494263
Now I'm confused, but I think I get it. Kyo was actually the person hired to transfer seals after the auction was over and betrayed them. I was thinking that we spin some BS about how we can defeat the beast through various boosts given to us for having enough slaves, but we do not know how many we will need. If the nobles want to keep their lives they have to transfer ownership of them all to us!

But that plan can't work since Kyo is actually the guy hired to do all of that?
>>
>>3494203
>>3494209

As I said above, this guys our contact. Yeah hes mad, but he's also a very skilled scientist, which calling him an Alchemist is another way of saying this. I also argue he's good because why the fuck is he experimenting in a Slave Farm?

We need to make a deal with him with something more appetizing. I think an instant kill seal that controls a person's mind as well as equipping a kill switch should be a good deal. This also makes sense with the hints above with Kami basically saying that it was all lined up.
>>
>>3494273

He never confirmed rather or not he is the one. You just think he is, it's going to get addressed in the next post
>>
>>3494150
>>3494189

>>3494203
>>3494282

You call out to Kyo, asking him if he was the wondering Alchemist. Tempting him with some sort of deal as he looks back at you.

"I am an alchemist and destroying slave crests is child's play for me. And while the thought of what you're offering is interesting...I need to keep my focus in check. Survive this battle and I may take you on your offer....Spear hero"

With that he heads off into the distance, keeping true to his word of observing the battlefield accordingly. You didn't have time to chase after him and confront him on his words. For now you needed to believe in him as much as you allow yourself to and focus on Cerberus.


You call to Riku, completely filling him with the situation while Blake keeps Wyndia safe. Riku oddly enough accept this as he is already at the original rendezvous point with the monster eggs. He's leaving the protection of the slaves you bring to his team. You quickly use portal Spear to make a path for the slaves you free as all of them are directed to the rendezvous point.

Despite the chaos, it seem like that you manage to successfully rescue all the captive slaves, both demi-humans, beastmen and even regular people. However, you weren't exactly getting a signal with Rifana and Elena. Something must have happened during your confrontation with the mysterious Kyo. You feel like you're on a crossroad between making sure the slaves stay safe or going to help your party. Both were equally important and you couldn't bring yourself to choose. Yet you still had to do something. As you struggle to think of a plan, Riku surprises you by putting his hand on your shoulder.

"Believe in Tersia and Farrie, they're...my trusted friends. I'll come to you soon with transport sword. Till then, if Rifana is being targeted...then you should rush to her as soon as possible. The one who tries to catch two fishes will end up with none if he's not careful."

Wise words from Riku, but more surprising was him acknowledging both Terisa and Farrie who were equally moved by their leader. You felt like you can truly trust in Riku to protect Wyndia and the slaves. So without wasting any more time, Blake flies you off to where Rifana and Elena were located at max speed. You brace yourself accordingly with reinforcement magic to endure the full speed of Blake's wings.
>>
>>3494422
>>3494422

Almost like this was from a movie did the two of you arrive in dramatic fashion, blowing away Cerberus for a bit as you land on the ground. You look around to see Rifana, holding her hammer while Elena was unconscious and dripping with blood. Many of the nobles were afraid and scared as they were sealed in by some sort of magical spell circle. As you check up on Elena, you know that she was hit hard as parts of her outfit was torn and there were bruises. Upon looking at Rifana, you would see her eyes more feral as her face didn't look like something Rifana would make normally. You are left to wonder what happens as Rifana fights on her own against Cerberus while you heal Elena. It frustrated you immensely but you use this chance to convenience the nobles that were still around to give you free ownership to the slaves. You destroyed any argument they had by using fact and logic to make them consider their own lives being more important then the slaves.

Despite that, you still had to watch Rifana fight Cerberus on her own. Elena slowly starts to open her eyes as she looks to see what is happening. There was deep tears coming out of Elena's eyes as she looks at what Rifana was doing.

"...It's that beast...the beast that took...Rifana's home. ....Rifana had just gotten over stopping herself from taking Idol's life...focusing on the mission and powering through...until this thing showed up. ...She was terrified...told me this was the creature...that killed the children's parents, including Rifana and Raphtalia's. But it kept chasing after her. She...tried to lead it away...let as many people get out..but the room was sealed...and she was forced...to fight. ...I tried to help...got hit rather hard....then I blacked out....and now..."

Elena gripped against your hand as you heal her with your strongest spell. You really wish Melody was here. She would've gotten this done much quicker and more efficiently. Most of all, you didn't need to gather that Rifana went into a fight or flight response, choosing to fight in order to protect her friends and everyone...even those disgusting nobles. Once again you were put between the crossroads, watching what assumes to be a berserk Rifana keeping Cerberus at bay. Why does these things keep happening...That's what you thought until you see a rather suited gentleman walking towards you.

"Perhaps I can help with that...My name is Sigurd, and I am not your enemy...you called out for an alchemist right?"

>What do you do?
>>
>>3494446
>>
>>3494446
>Met him, done that, we already know someone who can do it. We do need someone who can get everyone safe.
>Rifina, remember yours anger against the Slaver! This bastard infront of you started everything, slaughter him!

I't going to take a guess and say Mr. Mad Scientist meant for her to fight this on her own, and we will follow through with it. I bet hes trying to access something in her beastial blood, so I don't see why we want to prevent that unless it goes too close. Encourage her to hell though.
>>
>>3494446
Switch to flag banner spear and passively raise Rifana's morale.
>>
>>3494481
I'm not really seeing why we have to go along with his claptrap if there are several others who can do the job. The book guy probably isn't the wandering alchemist anyway and has been firmly establishing himself as a dick. His focus that he keeps in check doesn't mesh with us at all plus he turned down our offer for a maybe. You don't get reservations for your fight to further traumatize a daughteru on a maybe
>>
>>3494446
One of my teammates has a rather nasty modification of a slave crest put on her. I'm in need of your services for that and several others. Is there something I can offer you in exchange? Perhaps a place in a heroe's party? I've noticed that you don't even have to stick around if you really don't want to to reap the benefits of staying in the party.
>>
>>3494894
Two out of three of those are me.
I actually thought up a solution or two during class when my mind wandered so I'll probably ask if they were better ideas later or use one of them during the next round of voting.
>>
>>3494594
>>3494510
>>3494481

You discuss with Sigurd on the condition of a teammate. You don't say their name but you do discuss about quite possibly asking for someone who can offer a lot of services for her and several others. In addition, you're looking for someone who can get everyone safe before talking about giving Sigurd anything in exchange.

"We'll talk in greater details later. That said, I can't exactly abandoned a hero in their time of need can I? Especially not when they're holding deep concerns about the people in front of them over choosing to ignore the issues just to save one person."

Sigurd place his right hand on yours and help you get up from the ground. He pulls something out from his pocket. It seems to be that of a blue elixir. He slowly pours it directly into Elena's mouth once he was given the go to. The serum seems to work wonders for Elena as her wounds instantly disappear in front of your eyes. Not only that but all of her stamina and magic was fully recovered as well.

"I might not be able to fix the clothing with what I have, but I can offer some healing instead. Now then, we have to take care of thsi pesky barrier now don't we?"

The strange Sigurd walks towards the barrier field that was keeping the nobles trapped. He starts to examine it rather closely. You want to believe in Sigurd, believing that he can remove the barrier that made the entire arena a death trap. Meanwhile, you switch to the Flag Banner Spear. You started to use it's powers to try and raise Rifana's morale and empower her. She was feeling the strength from your spear as it enhances her further. She manages to block the Cerberus's claw attack, holding it back while growing right back like a ferocious beast. This was different compared to what Aden did. Aden was fighting within herself and chose to protect her friends and the innocents. Rifana was on full autopilot, acting on the sole intent to destroy.

Although defeating Cerberus would be the key to saving Melody if the mysterious Kyo got what he wanted. You start to wonder if this was really the right way? The beast Cerberus was the one who caused everything and Rifana had every right to avenge her people. However...this was not the strength that you wanted Rifana to obtained. This wasn't going to get her to confidence to walk alongside Rahptalia. This wasn't going to let her truly break free from the past. You start to make that apparent to Rifana. You remind her to defeat Cerberus, but you also tell her not to lose herself doing so.

con
>>
>>3494960

After stunning the beast, Rifana struggles to look at you. Her half-awakened state was fighting against the bruiser in her that focused entirely on destroying Cerberus. There was a lot of anger, fear, sorrow, and despair that ultimately turned into hatred. Yet most of all, there were tears of blood in her eyes as she previously fought like a savage slayer. This was not Rifana. This wasn't the timid and empty child that bloomed into a beautiful woman. A warrior princess who was strong but also kind and considerate. You put into your all into getting back to Rifana, making her remember the past.

She remembers the first meal that you and her shared. It was at a bar in castle town. She was still having trouble opening up to people. So you thought being around a bar might be the key to it. She was often unresponsive and distant. Making it all the more lucky that you got her to do this. You order from the waiter the best potato based dish he can muster. While for Rifana, you notice she was looking at a flag with her broken eyes. You decide to get her the kids meal which came with the flag. Rifana started to stare at the food before staring at you. You gave her the okay to eat it while picking up the flag. You then tell Rifana a story relating to a flag from your historian archives. It was a story that ended up giving hope to Rifana as she looked at you with innocent yes. She ended up holding the flag, crying...but these weren't tears of sorrow. They were tears of joy...she had forgotten what joy and happiness was. She forgotten how to smile, how to laugh, how to live. You were the light to her darkness.

"...I...I..."

She was starting to come back. Coming back to the Rifa-chan that you were proud to consider as your partner and daughterfu. Just like how she snapped you out of the spear of lust in spirit, you were here to snap her out of her primal instincts and deep seated hatred. You tell her that she's strong, she doesn't need to prove it to anyone. She may come from an ancient league of legendary warriors, but it didn't matter. Rifana's strength, the true strength you saw in her...it came from her hardships and experiences. The strength of her bonds with her friends, her family and most importantly...her time with you. Blake and Elena also helped with trying to get through to Rifana. It seems like she was hearing the voices of everyone calling out to her. The primal urges in her eyes started to fade.
>>
>>3494975

Rifana pulled herself from the ground after being knocked back by Cerberus. She wipes the bloody tears from her eyes, her back turned from the beast. Cerberus was about to lung at her as both you, Blake and Elena call out to her. A warm smile forms on her face as the paw slams into her. It was caught by her right hand, gripping rather tightly on the paw to the point of making Cerberus houl in pain...and in fear.

"..That's absolutely right. I am strong. Strong in my own way. ...It doesn't matter where that strength comes from. But..I know it's a strength that will protect those around me. So that nobody...Nobody will ever go through the same pain Raph-chan, Keel-kun and I went through."

You look at the status bar while examine Rifana. Although she hit the level limit without class up. Her attributes were off the charts as if she leveled up. Seems like this was precisely what the mysterious Kyo was looking for. Right on time however as Sigurd manages to open a path for you and Elena to go inside.

"It'll take a little longer to break it through completely. But with this...you can fight with your beloved comrade without regrets right? "

You really wanted to thank Sigurd as you, Elena, and Blake walk inside to stand right beside Rifana.

"...Flaithrí....Elena...Blake. Please lend me your strength...and fight with me so we can put an end to Cerberus...once and for all."

>What do you do now ?
>>
>>3494983

Forgot the part where Rifana lets go of Cerberus's hand, jumping into the air and slamming her foot down against the creature. Followed by gracefully dodging each one of it's heads, to deliver a hammer styled slap to all three of them and knock them back before landing where you and the gang walked to.
>>
>>3494986

Also add Riku teleporting directly into the ring now that there was an opening for him to do if you also want him apart of this fight.
>>
>>3494983

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mgB-zwOkwY
>>
Quick question.
Did we ever tell her the story of Psyche? That thing is a shoddy attempt at recreating the original cerberus, but it might have the same two main "weaknesses."

I figured we avoided 99% of greeks due to Zeus being Zeus but Psyche and Orpheus seem relatively family friendly in comparison.
>>
>>3495049

Probably, you did tell a lot of stories to the party from time to time. Bed time stories for Rifana, Vivian and Blake.
>>
>>3494995
“Riku, Elena, Blake. Let’s give this abominaton hell!”

>Use Spear Prison, to bind up the cerebus so that he can’t move.

“Alright everyone all out attack!”
>>
>>3494983
Switch to honey spear and choke one of the heads by directly pouring large quantities of honey down one of their throats.
>>
>>3495228
>>3495281

You rally up the group as Cerberus slowly pulls himself together and roars with all three heads. Before it could start charging at you, you summon an enclosed prison of spears to trap the giant three headed dog. One if the heads was trying to use mana to make for a powerful roar attack. However, you use the honey Spear in your hand to try and choke the living crap out of said head with your large quantities of honey. Even if drowning didn't work, the honey was super thick and kept his roar attacks at bay.

Riku and Elena times their sword strikes as Elena empowers her blade with mana as it turns blue. Riku on the other hand uses his sword skill Crimson Sword to transform his sword into a glowing red sword oozing with energy. In Unison, both Blake and Riku jumped on opposite directions to make an X cross slash on Cerberus. The beast pulled back, resulting in it getting pierced further by the Spear Prison.

Blake on the other hand carried Rifana up into the air as far as they could go. Rifana braced her hands tightly on the hammer as they were picking up speed. Faster...and Faster...and Faster they went. Blake's black wings started glow brightly. Rifana on the other hand was using wind magic to boost their speed even further. Thus, causing them to bust through the ceiling like a spiraling cyclone. Only once they reached a high enough velocity did the two of them start to dive down with tremendous force towards Cerberus.

"「Choral Magic : Tempest Storm Wing Dance!」"

You time their combination attack with Spear Forest to maximize the damage that Cerberus took. Drilling into the beast as it was hit by not just by the series of spears and blade wing smash, but the dynamic force of the cyclone plus the force of the hammer really pushed the beast deeply into the spears. With the power that was put into those two forces and Cerberus already suffering from Rifana's previous smack down and Riku and Elena's frequent sword combo attacks made it fall to it's last legs, breaking through the spear prison and spear forces from the impact of it's claws.

>What do you do next?
>>
>>3495338
“Time to finish this, Shooting Star Spear!”

>Decimate the Cereberus with multiple energy spears impaling the abomination in all of its vital points.
>>
>>3495350
Supporting.
>>
>>3495350
This, also adding
"This puppy is 'oing the way of the pin-cusion."
>>
>>3495350
>>3495358
>>3495373

With the three headed hound on it's last leg, you decide to finish things off with the Shooting Star Spear skill. Both you and Rifana placed both of your weapons together. Setting up for another combo attack as the beast was restrained further by the rest of the party.

"「Choral Magic : Shooting Star Homerun 」"

As you both says this in union, the multitude of spears were shot through the Cerberus like speeding bullets. But what makes it truly effective as the wind magic kept smacking the spears back in multiple directions into Cerberus. The beast was completely slaughtered by this combo skill attack. As it falls down to the ground, everyone puts away their weapons. The nobles ended up fleeing after Sigurd broke the barrier. Not that it matter since you and your team were committed to putting an end to Cerberus. Rifana slowly walks forward to the corpse. She looks at it with a disgusted look on her face before she starts to close her eyes.

"...Raph-chan....Keel-kun....everyone...I did it....I finally...avenged us..."

You placed your right hand on Rifana's shoulder. Standing by her as she places her hands against her chest. She was doing a prayer. A prayer to those who fell to Cerberus. Praying for her parents as well as her friend's. You decide to let her have her peace of mind before ultimately taking Cerberus corpse. Rifana didn't mind since they needed it's body for materials and powering up both Riku's and your weapons with the Cerberus series. There was enough to also give to Nick and Lucien when you decide to pay them a visit.

You get the feeling that Kyo probably left when he knew that Cerberus was going to die. Whether or not he attest to his part of the offer remains to be seen. But even if he doesn't, you still had Sigurd, the Alchemist that the Queen's shadows brought to this location. Speaking of Shadows, they could probably hide the slaves elsewhere or you could return them all to Wyndia's village since it was essentially under your control.

>What do you do now?
>>
>>3495413
Pull Rifana in a neck hug
"So damn proud of ye.
Took an important step to recovery ya did."
Let's get back to the village and build an orphanage for the youths without family.
This will be the village's redemption.
"Raise these troubled munchkins right and you will be forgiven for the sins of your talking 'eads. Abuse them and I will come back to personally punish the lot of ye. Treat them as you would your fellow man; with respect."
>>
>>3495413
Well considering that we're still publicly in the middle of enemy territory we might want to get out before they figure out we are actually robbing them instead of rescuing them. Maybe while making a show as if we're chasing after Lord Dickwad when we're actually removing seals and hiding them in the mountain?

>Discuss the creepy dude with a book and:
> how we as a party probably need to get higher levels to be able to resist his spells by sheer brute force of stats.
>His mumblings about Rifa
>His mumblings about Cerberus and another world. It makes us hypothesize that he must have gotten a sample from something related to the original and is letting it loose on this world as some sort of sick experiment
>Him using that book on us and the severe danger that gaining a large compendiary of information on heroic legends and monsters if he stops his tunnel vision on Rifa.
>He called it Cerebrus when he summoned it which might be an indication that there is a limit to whatever knowledge his book gleans since Kerebros is greek for Spot, so it's not the name of a species as much as it's the name for a pet.

>>3495581
That just feels like a setup for some extremely messed up people in the long run. Integration does change things eventually, but you're basically asking for them to get raised by a bunch of minister Frollo and burn down all of Paris.
>>
>>3495718
You raise a good point.
We're going to have to discuss with the party first, then.
>>
That Cerebrus was missing a mane of snakes, a snake tail, it being poisonous, and was altogether the wrong dog breed. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molossus_(dog)
Definitely a pale imitation unless the legends exaggerated a great deal.
>>
>>3495581
>>3495718

You briefly pulled Rifana in a neck hug, telling her just how proud you are. It took a lot of strength to confront their demons and fight past their physical trauma. That was a strength not from heritage or circumstances, but strength of the heart. And Rifana most certainly has that in spades. It was her strength, and nothing anyone says can take away it's meaning or true value. She was the real deal.

You rally up the gang, including Sigurd to follow after you in order to chase after whoever did this. Although most of the nobles were either gone or suffered from the beast's attack, you still needed to make it look like you were on their side. Reputation and all, so the party quietly agrees and follow you out of the out of the slave auction. As you escape from the area, you notice that the farm was practically out of commission for the time being. A moral victory sure but just how much destruction did Cerberus caused? How many people did it killed before it was eventually captured. Or...was it even the real Cerberus or just an inferior copy to the legend in your mind. All these and more plague you but you decide to meet up back up with the party before discussing further.

As you make it to the forest to the meeting spot, a bunch of cloaked figures come popping from the ground. One in particular stands in front of you, hand on the ground in a kneeling position. They look up to you as a mask was covering their face.

"The Queen's Shadow has sent us as we have a direct message from the Queen. She wants to thank you for stopping the first wave boss Cerberus and freeing the slaves/putting a swift end to the Slave Farm for now. We the shadows will take care of these slaves unless you have a more preferred location to take them? "


How do you respond?

>Trust the Queen
>Go with taking them to the village
>Ask some questions
>Something else
>>
>>3495803
>Go with taking them to the village
>>
>>3495803

>Ask some questions
What will happen to them now?

Hey guy, we need our own base of operation. I certainly don't trust those people from the village.
>>
>>3495803
Stupid browser crash.

>The owner seems like he'll be missing for quite a while and has spectacularly failed at whatever defense he's supposed to be in charge of. If only there was a Sir or Dame without any land that it could be gifted to as a sort of Hero consulate instead.(consulate means Melomarc actually gave away the land instead of us suddenly getting obligations to Melomarc from becoming official nobles.) Having to wander from place to place looking for people in need seems inefficient when with a good mail system there can be an office/address to send requests about emergencies. Wink wink.
(I mean cmon,. We're fucking Hobos and this might be a way to rescue the remaining slaves.) (we might also get corporate tax refuge shennanigans for lulz since it would technically be Irish property instead too.)
>Ask about creepy book wizard and monster summoning.
>>
>>3495853
+1
>>
>>3495853
>>3495991


You quickly talk to the leader of this shadow group currently kneeling down at you. Naturally you are quick to get to the point of trying to persuading them to maybe, just maybe give someone like yourself the land of the farm. They look to each other for a bit before looking back at you.

"The Queen will look into making such a thing possible for you Sir Flurry. Although, the second princess is arriving at Castle Town very soon, so she would be able to get it done much quickly if you go through her. She is currently the only one other than the queen that would have the power to override the King."

You take this news to heart and to consideration. It was probably best until you could get the Second Princess to give you this land that you would hide all the slaves in the mountain or leave it to the village bellow. That or let the shadows handle with keeping them safe until then. Either way, you decide next to ask some questions about the creepy book wizard and the art of monster summoning.

"...We had a brush in with the mysterious bookeeper earlier. He notice us following him in secret and manage to cast several spells in a instant to stop our tactics and hold several of the shadows in place. We just got done dispelling the magic, but I'm afraid we lost his trail completely. As for this...monster summoning. It is not something known to this land. We can only assume he is using some sort of magic from another kingdom....or it could be a lost magic from the past."

>What do you do now?
>>
>>3496303
>It was worth a shot, I guess I'll let those fools keep badmouthing Nick about slavery again. I can't really call it a trick if they end up having to adhere to their words. You don't get to unanimously complain about a law being unjust when you're the ones that can rewrite the law.
> Sigurd, do you mind removing those slave seals before we get to my friend we were talking about? She says that one of the conditions on it is that she dies if she sees a certain man, and I'd like for her to be blindfolded before you meet her as it could be a precaution against her getting help.
>Riku, you have anything to resist mind control with? I'm suspicious about that pope.(Thinking aabout getting 2x more peices of anti mind control gear crafted.)
>Group port to the mountain. It can be our/thier secretish base.

>I'm pretty sure the party is level capped by now, we should do something about that soonish as Book dude has probably lit a fire under us to start leveling Asap?

I'm noticing a greek theme to the bosses so far.
>Teach Blake about Mwindo since there's a giant dragon in that story and the dragon has a relatively good end since it was friends with the thunder god, the hero apologized for slaying it , and the dragon presumably lived happily ever after.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzmFEDNWTO8

>Storytimes shift to greek/roman mythology with the explanation that if that was the boss of the first wave, then knowing about Greek monsters/myths might identify some weaknesses/dangers everyone might not know to look out for. Even if not completely accurate, it's still better info than nothing. That madman called the monster Cerberus despite it being far less of a threat than the one in stories and we don't know if the stories were inaccurate or somebody tried to remake the original. Preface these lessons with the fact that we've been picking the ..nicer tales that we know of. There's a great deal more rape murder and horrific deaths than the normal selection.

I'm pretty sure I voted for stuff too far ahead in the future but it's better than me not having any ideas for votes.
>>
>>3496421
I like all them. But let's add that the Slaves will go to our proxy village until we get the proper rights for our friend's land.

For later, I would like to educate the second about her sister's activities, even if she does not believe us. It will make the 'I told ya so' so much better.
>>
>>3496592
>>3496421

You decide to trust the Queen to keep to her word. But you were going to ask the second princess to speed it up since the Queen was sending her to try and stop the madness in her kingdom. Or at least, keep the damages to a minimum until the queen returns properly. So you and the shadows came to the agreement till then to keep the slaves within the mountain village. The shadows will help make sure the villager heads if they weren't killed by rabid villagers/monsters to keep themselves in line.

Once that was addressed, the shadows left as quickly as they appeared. Leaving you to turn to Sigurd as you been to discuss the possibility of removing those seals. He brushes his suit a bit before glancing back on the slaves you rounded up.

"Well that's why I was bought to you by the Queen. I can remove them for you before attending to your friend. Although, do you want me to also remove the crest on Ms. Rifana as well?"

While asking that, Sigurd went towards the slaves and had them line up one by one. It surprises you how easy Sigurd made the dispelling and removal of slave crests was. With several drops of one of his serums, the slave crests were first deactivated before he removed them with a different drink. You get the feeling he could do it without the tools on hand, but it would probably be more...direct and crude. And you didn't want the slaves having to endure pain to do it the old fashion way. Still, that left the question of rather or not Rifana should have her slave crest remove. Deep down you really wanted to do it, but wouldn't that cause suspicion that she wasn't marked as a slave anymore? Before you had the chance to eventually decide an answer, Rifana stands forward in your place.

"...Not yet. We have to keep up our image don't we? So..until the queen comes back and we are free of this conspiracy plot...I'll keep the slave crest on."

Talk about a grown up thing to do. While it pains you that Rifana had to make the choice and put up with this. You do feel pride in the fact that she has been moving forward and was no longer someone who was too scared to act. You turn your attention back to Riku and discuss the necessary steps to counter brainwashing.

"If it's caused through illusions/hallucinations, then I already have the means around it. So you don't need to worry about me. Also....we need to discuss Wyndia's future at some point...I know I probably don't have the right to be apart of it....but.."

How do you respond?

>Tell Riku he should watch over Wyndia as atonement
>Comfort Riku
>Change the subject
>Lecture Riku
>Something else
>>
>>3496701
>"Ye gonna have to apologize to the youngun. Then your gonna have to treat 'er to somethin. Preferably a good meal and room an board."
>Tell Riku he should watch over Wyndia as atonement
>>
>>3496701
When I said the mountain I meant they'd establish their own "secret" village. And the QM in incompetent magical girls quest got caught editing a post again.(adjusting a name) It might be a good idea to ask in QST general about that to see if you just don't know where the feature is.

>I think the least you can do is apologize. I dunno what else to do, but it's better than being the monster that haunts her nightmares. Show her something other than the depths of human cruelty.
>>
>>3496794
>>3496884

You talk to Riku, coming to an understanding that you don't really have a complete idea of how he should atone. The only sin he could be accounted for was the sin of ignorance and negligence. You can tell there was a deep reason for that and being around him during the days to the missions that he has trouble opening up to people. You can gather that lone wolf appearance might both be a defense mechanism how he copes to the event that happened to him or to protect his gentle heart. He certainly has been around people to fully able to converse what he needs to say without hiccup. Yet, you push Riku to watch over Wyndia as the first step. Apologizing and keeping her safe would be the good first step to prove that you're not the monster that haunts her nightmare. Blake slowly walks to Riku before looking him in the eye.

"...Blake....also agrees with this. Blake is still going to look after Wyndia to make sure Swordku makes sure to keep his promise to Blake and Master. But...Blake gets the feeling that...things are going to get more dangerous over time. So...Wyndia should be free to choose what she wants to do once she's fully recovered. ..That's what it means to have free will isn't it? Besides Master is a personified chick magnet. It'd be hectic for her. "

You not sure where Blake got that last line but it didn't change the fact that they were right. Blake probably more than anyone wants to be with Wyndia to keep her safe. But Blake seems to understand that they couldn't take a broken child with her this late in the game and protect her while fighting the waves. Blake might not always thinks things through and act on instinct and impulses more than using their head. Still, it didn't change the fact they were much wiser than you give them credit. Of course that's probably the fact that this adventure made Blake really do some serious thinking. It didn't change the fact you were proud of your red haired black dragon as you place your hand on their head.

"...Alright. I'll...try to do that. Blake, Flaithrí...everyone...I won't let you down."

You also think you heard the words thank you but you couldn't be sure. Either way, you watch Riku and his team teleport with the monster eggs. Chances are they were going to be placed back in the cave and watched accordingly. Still you helped with that and transporting the slaves once Sigurd was finished with the last of the seal. With your trusty spear, you went to work essentially giving them a "secret" village of sorts for the time being. That Bio Plant Spear came real in handy...after you contacted Nick through your spear phone in order to grasp how he managed to make the plants provide boundless/ amount fruits and vegetables of countless variety without mutating and going berserk.

con
>>
>>3496970


With that out of the way, you could leave the rest to Riku as you teleport back to the party. This was quite the ordeal but overall you and your party became stronger and closer as a result. Still, what Kyo said about you being much weaker did sting your confidence. You needed to go to the dragon's hourglass as soon as possible and rectify that mistake with your party as soon as possible.

You decide on the way home to teach Blake about Miwindo while they were on your shoulders in piggy back style. Rifana and Elena was following alongside you while Sigurd was right behind you. You couldn't thank him enough for saving those slaves and helping dispel the barrier for you and the party to help Rifana with her bout with Cerberus. The queen certainly kept up her word and now it would be time for you to do the same.

As you think about how you were going to safely remove Melody's seal, Blake started to look up at the night sky. Arms wrapped around you neck.

"...This was the right thing to do master?"

>What do you do next [Also write in your dialogue with Blake]

>Pet Blake
>Reassure the Party about their next objective
>Head back to the inn asap
>Something else
>>
>>3496975
Never stop questioning that. The worst people think they’re absolutely right.
Those men in the village thought they were absolutely right
>>
>>3496975
>Pet Blake
>there's no perfect answer to that, all you can do in life is try your best and stay self aware of your actions.
>>
>>3497262
oh and add to this
>but yeah, I think we did a good thing today
>>
>>3496975
>Pet Blake
"Yes. Letting Wyndia choose what she wants is the right thing to do. That's why we freed her from slavery, right?"
>>
>>3497035
>>3497262
>>3497287

You tell Blake that the concept of morality and choice isn't a simple thing to decide. Those who choose to force their believes or ideals just because they are the victor or believe themselves as infallible and absolute is not right in the slightest. There was no perfect answer and there would always be times where you often question your actions and ideals. But that was also good since it keeps one from being conceited and arrogant like the village leaders. To question oneself and to learn from one's mistake surely will lead to a brighter future through self awareness.

"...Life really isn't easy huh...but...that's what makes it worth living for right?"

You smiled at Blake, putting your hand to pet the dragon. Telling them that they did a good thing with their actions and letting Wyndia choose made Blade smile.

"Blake think...no Blake knows so too.So Blake won't let it get to them anymore. Blake wants to keep traveling and having adventures. So one day...Blake can be a great dragon like Gaelion. "

That was quite the ambition to have for someone who isn't two months old yet. It didn't change the fact that it was a good motivator. You and your team was going to get stronger. Who cares if some mysterious glasses person told you that you were weak. That just means you know your weaknesses, know the pain of being weak, and the struggles that one has to surpass to survive. It wasn't a sin to be weak, it's choosing to rather or not to remain weak when you have the chance to get stronger that truly defines a person. You and your party chose to become stronger, much stronger.

As you make it to where the rest of the party was staying, you look to see them having a...odd look on their face. Like they were hit with a wild whirlwind. You'll going to have to ask about that later. Right now, you make your way to introducing Sigurd to the party and finding where Melody was located.

"Hello. You can call me Sigurd, and I'll be here to help a certain problem you have."

It didn't take you long to find the pink haired priestess currently unconscious. You slowly help her off from her bed, slowly trying to open her eyes. You tell her to keep them close while you go to tie a blindfold on Melody's eyes. Sigurd looks at Melody while you set up the necessary steps for the operation at hand. His golden eyes look at Melody rather intensely before turning his attention to you. You asked Melody to open her mouth and show the tongue and she half-sleepishly does.

"..This is most peculiar...Someone has removed the seal from her mouth...but more concerning then that....how long as this Melody...ended up in the condition she's in?"

>What do you do?
>Ask Sigurd what he means by that?
>Go to the party to ask what happened?
>Look for any traces of an intruder?
>Something else
>>
>>3497340
Lucien might have been warning about something?
>Check the party screen for Melody's location since it operates independently of what we "know" to confirm that it's her.
If yes:
>The status screen confirms that she shouldn't be an imposter. As far as I know her memory was sealed when I found her in the castle dungeon. She revealed the seal to us later on when she was healthier and what memories she had left got clearer.
If No:
>Continue conversation and discreetly move Sigurd away from stabbing range.

We'll have to ask the party what happened during these last few days. I know the Hero of the Bow had promised to run interference so that the one who placed it doesn't activate the seal remotely to kill her while we get you, but I'd be dumbfounded if I actually thought the seal was removed that way.
>>
>>3497473
This, but with these as well:
>Ask Sigurd what he means by that?
>Go to the party to ask what happened?
We need information.
>>
>>3497473
Support
>>
>>3497473
>>3497476
>>3497497

The first thing you do is imminently check the party screen to look at Melody’s condition. It doesn’t show that she was replaced by someone or left the party. Her status however was dropping rather slowly. Like she had some sort of fever, but you better compare it to one of those poison status that slowly chip away at the person’s life. You start to panic until Sigurd places his right hand against your shoulder.

”.…Please calm down. I won’t let your friend die. The look upon your face tells me that she isn’t a dummy or something trying to pretend to be Ms. Melody. Now tell me all about Ms Melody since the day you met. “

You begin to do as Sigurd asks, going deep into explaining how you originally found her in a dungeon malnourished and sick. You been taking care of her both body and spirit while slowly uncovering what has happened to her in these past few months. You come to the conclusion that Myne Sophia aka First Princess Malty must of did something to cause this. There was a cold sweat on Sigurd’s face. He doesn’t respond to you but gets started on working on Melody. He quietly beacons you to leave the room politely. You do so in order to get information from the others. You walked over to the nearest person you found and it was Andros. He was lying against the floor in a large room alongside Vivian, Aden, and Freya. Rifana and Elena were tending to the others trying to wake them up.

”.…Hey you’re back. Next time…at least gives us a head’s up that you were going to invite a strange alchemist into our parks to work on Melody.”

Andros tells you this, which makes you all the more nervous. You quickly asked Andros what has happened while helping him up. He tells you that Lucien kept his word and the meeting ended up being postpone like he said it did. The pope has been eerily quiet since talking to the King. Myne Sophia was once again causing trouble for the shield hero as usual. And the rumors about you were being suppressed by the shadows as the queen’s shadows said it would. Yet the damage with Nick was still done as he’s having a hard time believing you considering he been doing battle with a doppelganger. You get the feeling that sleight of hand was being used because nobody should be able to replicate a legendary hero’s weapon…. right? As you continue to question Andros, he tells you that the party ended up all reaching the level limit of forty. This was normal for Andros since he and Melody prior to getting their levels reset were more around the fifty to sixty range. As they were waiting for your return, a strange man holding a book appeared.

con
>>
>>3497532

He told them that he was hired by you to check up on Melody. So most of the party let him through while Andros still kept his distance just to be sure. He did a strange thing on everyone, oddly touching them and mumbling the words “…Full Access Identification.” He said it was to better understand the symptoms but Andros wasn’t so sure. The jewel on his book alerted him that something was up as he went to Melody. Like you expected, he studies her extensively before eventually destroying the slave seal.

Andros tried to confront him when the job is done, but found himself slowly falling down as if he was put to sleep. The last thing he heard was “...this covers my part of the deal so now Spear Hero owes me…. we’ll keep in touch again” before disappearing without a trace.

You must have theorized that Kyo must have used some sort of teleportation spell to arrive at where your friends were located. But how exactly did he get knowledge on each of them. Elena then mentions that while at the auction, they met the same man. He was rather eccentric and tried to ask some questions. Elena naturally took a stand between him and Rifana in order to keep her safe. But something happened when she met his eyes as she found herself strangely sleepy. She heard him say the same words that Andros heard as he touched them before seemingly disappearing.

Before they could do anything else, they had to fend off an attack from the knights. They didn’t discover their real identity but it was clear they thought of them as intruders as Rifana and Elena had to fight them off until Cerberus arrived. This must of happened before you met the individual considering the time gap between this encounter, or some sort of duplication magic perhaps. Either way, you ponder this for quite a long time before Sigurd opens the door and beacons you inside.

"...You told me that Melody’s memories were sealed and you believe that’s the cause of her irratic behavior. Well…that seal did more than lock her memories....it also seem...to have suppressed the mutation that was done to her body. Mr. Flaithrí…I’m going to be quite honest with you. And I’m going to need you to believe these words. Your friend Ms. Melody…she has had her genetics altered. I assume nobody here knew about it because of the seal. On the rare chance you saw these…wings on the side of her head, you would logically believe her to be some sort of avian based Demi-human or Beastman am I correct?

con
>>
>>3497537

You told him that was correct. You didn't really think about the wings on Melody's head. You had more pressing issues to deal with at the time and only thought it was normal for her race. Signud looks back to Melody, having a rather gloom look on his face.

”...I had considered the possibility that she could be a monster that was brainwashed into believing she’s human. But my studies so far prove that it’s not the case. The more accurate description is…someone used a horrific type of magic to altered a person’s genes. From what I gotten from her blood…she has Filolial genetics in her. If what you said about Melody being around Myne during her trip to the Faubley Kingdom…then I’m afraid I need to explain to you the dark secrets of that Kingdom…For Melody if my hypothesis is correct…..she’s been made into a Werefilolial aka a hybrid of a human and a Filolial by the kingdom’s secret…and forbidden magic…”

>How do you respond
>Awaken Curse Series
>Repress the urge and ask him further
>Something else
>>
>>3497542
>>Something else
"WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?"
Look of disbelief and surprise.
>Repress the urge and ask him further
"S-she's a werefilolial? Does that mean she's cursed?! Did that seal keep her from turning into a filolial every full-moon? What is with this world and it's madness!?"
>>
>>3497542

This
>>3497570
Then
>Awaken Curse Series
>>
>>3497570
This
>>
>>3497570
Support.
>>3497668
How about no?
>>
>>3497570
Is there anything we can do for her? The only werecreature stories I know about from my world are werewolves and those have tales have been muddled by time. I'm hoping they aren't as bad as that.
>>3497735
I'd personally go with guilt or worry if there was any extreme emotion since we did technically ask Kyo for help.
>>
>>3497542
>Something else
Stare in Irish Drunk finding a weird thing that's just not pissing them off enough but definitely a change of scenery to them.
Then
>Repress the urge and ask him further
>>
>>3497570
>>3497671
>>3497735
>>3497802
>>3497825

Naturally you freak over the news, having a look of both disbelief and surprise. It quickly turned into guilt and despair as you start to ask about the condition and if she was going to turn into a filolial every full-moon. You were completely flabbergasted over this world finding new ways to be twisted and insane.

"I suppose someone would see this as a curse. Having your genetics altered for as long as she have isn't something I would wish on my enemies. Anyway...I given her some of advance medicine in order to stabilize her. Her condition needs to be treated with great care. The slightest mistake could end up doing worse to Ms. Melody. Though, I'm not sure if it could fully be reversed given this is years of genetic alteration that was done to her. The only thing that kept it at bay must have been that seal. That's not to sayI'm giving up on Ms. Melody, just....this isn't exactly easy to tackle with."

You manage to powerful the feeling of murderous intent and bloodlust to once again keep the spear of lust from activating. However, you get the feeling that these past few experiences have really been a test of wills for you. Cause between this and the dragon mountain village, you really came close to releasing the Spear of Lust into form. So you should be patting yourself on the back...if you weren't feeling intense guilt and worry over the fact that you did as Kyo in you desperation to break the seal. You start talking about werewolves and question if this is similar to the legends. Although, you did once saw a werewolf beastman in this world.

"With my brand of Yggdrasil medicine and science, it'll be possible to keep her from transforming into a wild and berserk filolial. But curing her of it might not be possible. Her genes have adapted and accepted the mutation for so long while being suppressed. For now I can keep it from getting worse, but I need more time to study this to see what I can do for her. I'm more worried about her mind. When you break something like a seal that affects the mind, you do it gradually as to let them recover their memories slowly. Otherwise, you risk shattering their mind at worst or putting them in a comatose like stake. I put some additional medicine to help her gradually recover in addition to stabilizing her mutated genes. I'm sorry that at the moment I'm...deeply sorry can't do anything further."

>What do you do now?
>>
>>3497871
>>3497871

Fabuley Kingom has a long history of having connections with heroes. Either being the one to summon one or more often seeking them out in order to procreate and expand their empire. You could say they're a kingdom founded on their strong heroic bloodline. It is also the kingdom that is most affected by outworlders such as yourself Mr. Flaithrí. Many heroes tried to replicate stuff from their world onto the kingdom with varies degrees of success. One of them....is the magical science that gave birth to Yggdrasil Medicine. But in it's dark side...it only pushed bio-engineering to forsaken levels. ..To mimic the powers of a pureblooded dragon once they reach a high enough level onto other monsters, countless people wanted the power to influence and alter genetics. A dragon's blood is highly adaptive and can change itself to be comparable with any species and race on the planet. In a way, you can say that dragons hold the dna code of every creature out there. And being influenced by the blood of the otherworlders...they wanted that power. In some way...you can thank and blame dragons for sentient monsters as they're possibly the oldest and the original naturally born one. And this research only led to further changes to the world centuries ago... The current King is...a very disgusting and despicable man. As the kingdom continues it's advancements on to science and even started to see the errors in it's way trying to mess with the natural order....the king just uses the science of the kingdom to fulfill his sick and twisted fantasies. "

There was anger in Sigurd's words. As if he couldn't tolerate or forgive what the king or certain scientists/alchemists were doing that were unknown to you at this time. However, there was also a hint of regret in his tone for reasons you also did not know.

[forgot to add this]
>>
>>3497871
>I take that means you'll be staying with us for a while?
> Try to see if there's any basic medical knowledge from Earth that might be new for Sigurd to help him further. They might have a general concept of what genes do thanks to remaining knowledge, but not what they actually are as well as concepts like the immune system to explain why if our conversation about the plague is an indication. We might fill in a few knowledge gaps and depending on Riku's education/major he might have more information.
>Let everyone know the bad news including our own mistakes and get filled in on anything else
>The simplest way to combat the doppelganger is to record everything. If we have proof we were elsewhere the next time a doppelganger does something, then whatever manufactured farce is being setup against us is destroyed by evidence.
>Work together to have a way of being contacted by the other heroes. If they run into "us" they can confirm that it is not really us via contacting the real us.
>>
>>3497899
I guess the medical thing is useless, but we can try and figure out where medical (and other?) knowledge is at in this world a little better and mention that the heroes must have made the mistake of assuming the people in this world have the same general codes of ethics they did or it was deliberately hidden from them much like Melomarc tries to keep the heroes from properly learning about this world.
>>
>>3497899
Support
Only thing I don't like is genes stuff as Im shyre we are no expert... Eh in the worst case he will tell us off.
>>
>>3497926

Little of column a and b. It's a mixed bag since without the experimentation ..they wouldn't have learned about the dragon hourglass granting class ups like how dragons can class up monsters. There are other exceptions who can do this, including a certain bird brain. But it is normally supposed to have been a dragon only thing.
>>
>>3497927
Yeah. The thing is that they're getting their knowledge almost entirely from random teenagers so I'd expect gaps.Then I realized it was useless when QM made that addendum post.
They mentioned genes but at no point did they mention RNA which is how our own body edits genes. Octopi in particular evolve very slowly because they constantly self edit their own DNA via RNA instead of evolving.
>>
>>3497936
>>3497933
So is octpuss one of exceptions to class up? Do to their self edit?
>>
>>3497947

yes may you never meet with a kraken.
>>
>>3497899
>>3497933

"Yes, if you're willing to have me. I can't exactly leave a victim of a foolish person trying to play god and rewriting a person's dna. Because of the country trying real hard to recreate what the legendary weapons. From past experiences, heroes were able to bring out the very best out of monsters. Influencing their physical characteristics and triggering class up with them much like a dragon. Monsters normally don't need class ups since they don't have caps. They continuously get stronger and evolve as they leveled, but a level 99 ant isn't exactly going to be doing anything substance without classing up and evolving into something that can truly use it's full power. Weak monsters are capped in a different kind of way...which is why dragons, the pure blooded ones exist to regulate and control the monster population as the top of the hierarchy chain. that's also why dragons interfered with any bio-engineered monsters from humans to rectify any mistakes and keep the natural order. Allowing them to survive in the wild, breed, and evolve normally while being regulated. Unlike with heroes where apparently they never had any genetic hiccups or mutation nonsense. Almost like they had anti-mutation protection built in for the monsters when raising them to be the very best and ultimately becoming sentient and obtaining transformation powers. In retrospect, if the common folk knew...well if most people knew in general just how important dragons are...then they wouldn't have tried to slay pureblooded dragons for their resources back in the day. It's a miracle that this world didn't fall apart from so many people trying to play god or killing off the one thing that keeps the natural order in check."

You get the feeling that perhaps the legendary weapons kept those idiotic heroes from destroying the ecosystem and throwing the natural order with dragons, mainly purebreed ones being the administrating back up. This world feels more game like than you thought but it just further highlights the importance of not treating life and it's people as sacrificial lambs. Reality is not a game, and it unfortunately shows that there were some hard heads who never got that.

Still, you help out to Sigurd, explaining all the knowledge you have from earth. You weren't no doctor or scientist, but with the spearphone you could fact check yourself and be more effective than random teens/otakus trying to play doctor. You are surprise at how well and responsive Sigurd was to the knowledge you gave. Riku probably has the higher experience given that he comes from a world more advance and scientifically than yours. Maybe you should give him a call in the future to share knowledge with Sigurd. You then decide to go check back up with the rest of the party and leave the rest to Sigurd. However, he left you with one more piece of knowledge.

con
>>
>>3497899
>>3497927
>>3497972

"One day you should seek out Ratotille Anthreya. She's a rather...eccentric individual that I had the pleasure of meeting many times. She would love to hear such talk. In fact, it was her who sent me in her place to this location when the queen's shadow came to us."

You keep that tidbit of information in your head as you make it back to the party. Once they were all up you start explaining to them the bad news. Including your part in this as naturally they were rather upset, but more towards the fact that Melody was altered the way she was. Vivian was deeply sadden but also mostly quiet from the talk. You should probably have a one to one talk with Vivian at some point.

There wasn't anything else that happened, but you make note with your party to try and combat this doppelganger that has been doing the damages to the relationship with Nick. Proof was the only way that was going to get you through to him and the rest. You got contact with each of the heroes through the spearphone. So at nothing else, they can tell you when they run into the doppelganger and you can confirm their suspicion on it not actually being you. Till then, you was going to record everything to prove your innocence.

>What do you do prior to the meeting and who do you take with you to the meeting?

>Aden
>Rifana
>Blake
>Freya
>Sigurd
>Melody
>Vivian
>Andros
>Elena
>Go it solo
>>
>>3497972

fucking auto correct, it was suppose to be substantial and ain't. ugh
>>
>>3497893

So far my attempt to try and address a deepening concern that the series, especially the LNs now bring to the pot >>3485775 >>3485771 >>3485737 There's more to it and I know it could be better, but I'm still trying.
>>
>>3497947
Everything has RNA and octopodes are at the extreme end of that as far as I know since it's a somewhat new revelation that they consciously gene edit.
RNA is also how you end up with genetic memory where a creature knows something is a threat or useful from their parents without ever actually having met it or their parents.
>>3497980
How long until the meeting?
>Make sure nothing we use for food (pots/pans/cutlery) has lead in it. I don't remember if we ever checked but that seems like the sort of thing the average person might not realize to check for in this sort of situation. It's actually a theory that mad emperors/kings were a direct result of long term lead poisoning. (I'm assuming we went for silver or wooden utensils but I just wanna be sure now that the ubiquity of lead just came to mind. probably doesn't even need to be a vote as we probably heard the word lead pot and immediately vetoed it.)

>Get those dragon's hourglasses before anything that might be going down goes down.
>Figure out when Riku can do the coding thing. If we can figure out a way to have the Smartphone record as a passive too (as in swap to a different spear but the thing is still recording so that we can be more discreet once they figure out we have video or simply have the evidence that we were fighting without being stuck on only the selfie stick).

>Visit the weapons shop to say hi and explain the doppelganger thing. Freya's been mostly with us so she can vouch that we weren't near the area Freya can show off the things she's made to him or have him sell them in the shop if she wants to.

>Craft either a min control resistance charm for the other two heroes at the meeting or something that reacts to the user being targeted in such a way so that they can know attempts are happening and try to break out via willpower.
>Blake probably has mind control resistance due to our earlier paranoia so she can go. Her ability to sense magic makes her an active scanner to see if anything is up. Remind her to not lose her temper and it is better that they underestimate us while we grow than for them to realize we might know what they're doing.
>Rifana ,Aden, and Vivian can come because as members of the party it's better they be there while planning anyway and 2x Demihumans being there might be fun for slightly annoying the Pope/King with their existence while not actually pissing them off enough for them to do something.

>That should leave Sigurd, Freya,Melody, And Andros to check out whatever they want to in town without being under undue threat, while Sigurd can monitor Melody's condition. A written list of their own concerns would be good for us to bring. Andros in particular might hear any rumours swirling around that need to be known.
>Smartphone set to record for the entire meeting to show our party and Nick what's going on. Hopefully after Riku upgrades the phone we can discreetly stream the meetings to him.
>>
>>3498054
Support
>>
>>3498054
A good start as anything, I'll support it.

>>3497990
Also you dropped your nametag QM.
>>
>>3498054
>>3498092
>>3498124

Sorry about that. Forgot I didn't have my name. Anyway..

You decide to use the remaining time you have for the meeting to take care of every little thing in your mind. Starting with your food equipment. They seem to mainly use the standard cooking tools. Andros kept them well clean and prepared, thus dissolving your paranoia about lead poisoning. Still you double check the entire equipment just to be safe, much to the confusion of most of your party and annoyance to others.

You then talk to Riku about possibly coding your spearphone. You tell him that you wanna improve it's overall functions and quite possibly make it so it can record as a passive while swapping spears. He agrees to help you out and through your combine efforts you manage to improve the Spearphone greatly, including the precise function you wanted.

You then take the time to go to the weapon shop with Freya and the party to talk to Erhard. Naturally you discredited any bad rumors made about you including the doppelganger ordeal with Freya being your prime witness to prove them wrong. You then talked to Erhand about selling some valuable stuff from the monsters you killed while Freya shows off her work. She really put Gaelion, the Chimera, and even Cerberus to great usage for you and your party. Erhand couldn't help but be proud of Freya, perhaps overdoing it by embarrassing the cowgirl blacksmith.

You then asked about crafting some mind control resistance devices that can also alert you if someone was trying to brainwash you and enhance the body's will to be able to break it out. A hefty order to say the least. But with Freya there, both she and Erhard manages to create such that so you can give it not only to the entire party but also to Riku and Lucien. It was going to take longer to get it to the rest of their party but you get the feeling that they wouldn't be in any too much danger.

You decide to head to the meeting with Elena, Rifana, Aden and Vivian. That would leave Sigurd, Freya, Melody and Andros to check out and take care of any problems that happened while the meeting was going on. It was also best to keep Sigurd with Melody in order to keep up with her condition. He promised you that he'll keep a written list of anything he documents and relay it to you. With those concerns out of the way, you prepare to use the Smartphone function of the legendary spear in order to record the meeting in secret.

con
>>
>>3498195

Switch Elena with Blake and put Elena on team Sigurd. Little hiccup on my acount.
>>
>>3498195

You remind Blake to be on her best behavior. Blake's skills when it came to sensing mana and auras made her the perfect companion to notice if there was any changes to the surroundings or the people around them. You also get the feeling that as a dragon that was imprinted by you, Blake also has mind control resistance. Still, you make sure to tell Blake not to lose her temper. Better to let them make the foolish mistake to drop their guard and understatement them so when the time comes they can blow them away with their skills. Oddly enough you manage to get to Blake without fuss. Seem like that dazzling them made Blake think about sparkling stuff and it got her hooked.

With that you head to the meeting point which was at the same place as last time. So you can take care of class level ups right now actually. As you make your way to the Dragon's Hourglass, you would see a priestess and several other people doing work near the area.

"Ah Sir Flaithrí it's real good to see you make it. How can we help you this fine day?"

You quickly asks the maiden about using class ups for several of your party members. They tell you that it was going to cost one gold piece each in order to do so. Now that sounds rather excessive but then again this is a class up.

>Pay her the money
>Decline and go to the meeting
>Haggle
>Something Else
>>
>>3498224
>Pay her the money
>>
>>3498224
I’m gonna assume the smartphone functions include connecting to and broadcasting to crystal balls like we were talking with Riku about when we first got the idea.

To cover the expenses of creating one and compensate hard workers like yourself?
(Blake. I’m told they are and they sound like they’re based on dragons. Think you can copy one later if you saw it in action?)
>>
>>3498275
The hourglass a service or an item we can take back with us btw? It’s sounding like a service instead of something we can buy.
>>
>>3498224
Look over our funds
Then see if we can pay her for all or some of our members.
>>
>>3498305
If Elena isn’t there to haggle at them trying to overcharge us since she’s sure to have researched prices, then we should wait until after the meeting to bring everyone together?
>>
Or we could bring up the seals in the meeting and plop that onto the king’s expense?
>>
>>3498291

It's a service through the giant hourglass item. Like a ritual.
>>
>>3498255
>>3498305
>>3498275

You quickly look over your current funs and see that you could pay for the entire party. It would be a lot of money down the drain but your friends were well worth the class up upgrade. Still, you whisper to Blake about the hourglass and how it was like them. Blake's eyes start to sparkle before she gives a nod about wanting to see it up in action and seeing if she could do it herself.

You go to the maiden, saying that you would be willing to pay four gold pieces to class up your current party members. They look to Rifana and Aden who finally decided to stop covering her face with the helmet once you cleared her of her demons. They turn their attention on to you.

"It'll cost 4 gold coins each to be permitted to allow a demi-human to class up and 6 for a beastman."

Talk about hideaway robbery. They were charging you even more just to be able to class up both Rifana and Aden. Blake was still riding on your back but her grip tightens a bit as she was upset at this.

How do you respond?

>Give her the money
>Politely leave
>Bitch Slap the Priestess
>Something else
>>
>>3498412
>First do the humans and let Blake observe as pure blood dragons supposed to be able to perform rank up. Everything after depends on if Blake actually learns something about rank up.
>>
>>3498412
>Internally think about how to murder one of the local nobles for their coinage before nipping that idea in the bud
Then
>>3498425
>>
>>3498412
Remember guys, Melody's seal got fixed. We can fuck these guys.

>And why should a hero's party need to pay for this? Are you doing this just because I helped out the Shield? Do you want me to go around announcing what you are doing!?

Basically fuck these guys. If these fuckers are going to be in our way we are going to fucking ruin their name.
>>
>>3498344
Oh we are totally figuring out how it works so that Blake can do it or springing the fees on the king.
>>3498412
Are beastmen more difficult to use the ritual on? I would hope that the church would not unduly persecute those valiantly putting their lives on the line to save your life and civilization.
Still, I wish to see the process with my own eyes and this young one here before I assemble the rest of the party to undergo the process together,pay for one party member and make sure the recording is on Incase Blake has to review the footage.
>>
>>3498440
OR we keep the recording and let them fuck themselves without us asking them to.
>>
>>3498440
Don't fucking announce that we are with the shield
ya dunce. That's surely gonna make working with the church exponentially more difficult in the future.
>>
>>3498425
>>3498429
>>3498440
>>3498471

You decide to first pay for the humans in your party. Just so in case what you was going to do next ended up hurting you in the end. Vivian made her way to the hourglass. She wanted to boycott the entire thing in order to support Aden and Rifana. But they just ended up pushing Vivian go through with the ritual. You made sure Blake watch closely at the ritual in order to learn how to do this. So at worst, you could offer class up to peoples with your pet dragon and scam the church out of their money.

After the ritual was done, you mentally pet yourself on the back for recording the entire thing just in case Blake needed more time to watch it to get it. Once Vivian made her way to you, you decide to head to the meeting rather than deal with the church anymore then you had to.

Once you made it to the meeting spot, you secretly give both Riku and Lucien the respective anti-mind control accessory. You turn off auto-translate for them to hear you saying to not show any signs and to quietly take the item. Both Riku and Lucien look at each other before grabbing them and pocketing it away to equip secretly.

With that out of the way, you found yourself being greeted by the pope and several of his men as the rest of the war efforts make their way to the group. What surprises you the most was the fact a little girl with blue haired Twin tails and violet colored eyes. She was wearing a well made dress that made you think of Blake's for some reason. You had to assume that this must be the Second Princess Melty. It must of positively frustrated Myne who was also there that her sister was in the room.

>Share your war tactics
>Listen to the pope first
>Make small talk with Melty
>Bring up the hourglass incident
>Something Else
>>
One, they already know we are working with him, why would they be charging us. Two, yeah we could record this but I say give them a chance to repent.
>>
>>3498521
Jeeze. Sounds like we're gonna be lecturing them on (black) american history later.
>Do proper greetings with the pope and Melty. >Ask how the library access is doing. Mention that we have heard rumours of an imposter and will bring up the topic during the meeting. We do not personally have enough time to deal with the doppelganger as we mustn't neglect our leveling too much. It could be a trick to make us waste precious time allocated for leveling on them instead. Better to make new exploits to outshine his dastardly deeds so that none may doubt our name.
>Small talk with Melty. We've heard you're quite different from your sister and next in line.
>>3498526
I still say bring it up during the meeting, that way we can see if the other heroes had to pay for it or make that an allocated point of the budget since we're supposed to be speeding up our leveling very soon. It's best to act perfectly innocent about it to make them look worse when they try to make excuses.
>>
>>3498600
>>3498526
They also specifically didn't mention it among the costs of making a hero's party that we would be in charge of. They gave us money for hiring people, weapons/armour,etc, but absolutely didn't mention the hourglass. Ergo, it logically must be subsidized by the nation and Melomarc clearly must have been prepared for the costs of summoning four heroes or else they would look foolish for bringing in people that they cannot afford even the most basic of services for. Since he is clearly a wise king We should have no worry that he would actually forget something as simple and basic as ensuring our party can continue to be nurtured and grow.
>>
>>3498600
+1
>>
>>3498600
>>3498776

You do a proper greeting with everyone, especially the pope and Melty. You and Melty exchange pleasantries as she reveals herself as the second princess and offer her hand to you. You shake the hand, showing deep respect for the second princess. Your attention turns back to Pope Gregory as you ask him about the library.

"Ah yes the library of our countries archives. Yes we're working very hard to gather all of our books in preparation for your request. Most likely after the third wave will you be given full access to the archives to look at the hero books. Please continue to show your patience and put your faith in us."

There was no time to really pick this apart and force the pope to speed it up. It was a miracle that you got him to agree to this altogether. So all you have to do is just wait it out and complete the next wave. After that, you were going to hold him to his statement and read those books and scrolls. You then decide to bring attention that there has been a doppelganger masquerading as the legendary spear hero and causing trouble.

"Surely you must be joking Sir Florence. There is only one person here who can use the Legendary Spear. Even if someone had managed to copy your appearance, there was no way that they could deceive people when it comes to the spear."

"...Are you sure about that?"

"Yes, you were there when that troubling shield hero ended up fighting against the noble spear hero."

"Trouble that I'm sure you have something to do with it. There is one weapon in particular that may be able to replicate the Spear Hero's abilities. If his claims are true then someone has clearly breached what should not be used-"

"Hold your tongue Melty Q Melrmomac. Such a thing shouldn't be spoken out so carelessly."

"It isnot careless. One of our four heroes potentially is being deceived and the four heroes must work together. Naturally we'll have to check to see if the weapon is still in it's place. That said...if I find out that I am right and you're involved in this....you know what will happen to you...Malty S. Melrmomac"

You can just positively feel the tension between the two princesses as they stare each other down. Although Melty appeared no younger than Blake, she held a refined amount of resolve and presence in her appearance. She certainly was the Queen's second daughter after all. Before things escalated further, Pope Gregory raises his hand.

con
>>
>>3498846

"Now now, we must remain tranquilized and steady. Our Spear hero Flaithri makes quite the big claim. But I understand his plight and your concerns Princess Melty. It must be hard on you alone to come in your father's stead as he is recovering. So I will confirm your suspicions and reveal to you that the weapon is indeed int's restrictive location once the meeting is over. If someone is using some sort of magic to try and deceive the people, we will make sure that divine justice is brought down upon them. "

That seems to make everyone quiet as the sternness of his voice has brought order into the group. Melty and Malty glared at one another before turning back to the the objective at hand. You got more than enough confirmation that Melty wasn't like Malty. You was going to get her attention later where you can confirm or not she was next in line in secret.

You soon find out that the next wave was to be happening near a village located in a large canyon. It seems the next attack was going to be an airship based one with three main enemies. This sound exactly like a ghost ship from what you are being told.


>What is your war plan?

>State your idea
>Agree with what the pope suggest
>Something else
>>
>>3498851
A week before the wave we will secure a fortification for civilians to take cover in like before. Make sure all nearby villages are able to reach this place within a day and are notified beforehand. Besides that, it will be teams of two like our previous suggestions. With all the civilians in one place we will need the extra help as the monster will surely focus it.

If there are issues on either side, we can simply move troops between the boat and fort.
>>
>>3498851
>Request that the heroes be allowed holy water/oil to unlock new weapons as some ghosts tend to be weak against holy attacks. Additional supplies may need to be maintained to remove any curses inflicted upon the party members or militia. Being able to prevent disaster is better than lamenting it afterwards.

>Ask if we are to lure it down to the lower levels of the canyon and set some sort of anchor to prevent the ship's escape while it's fired upon from above, or are to to simply board the ship and make our way to the enemies in a repeat of the previous strategy?

>After I ran into the boss of the first wave I've noticed that at least the first two wave bosses are similar to monsters described in the ancient legends of Greece and Rome. They may be pale imitations of the originals so far, but I would like to suggest that my fellow heroes teach their party members about some of the more notorious monsters of Greek legend so that the party members can adapt to them before significant losses. I shudder to think of the lives that would be lost if something like the gorgon sisters were to appear without word being known of their petrification effects.

(What's the rough conversion rate for silver and gold coins? Equipment is expensive and without having Freya on our team the reward money couldn't possibly cover the expenses for class ups.)

>I noticed there being a rather large fee for members of the Hero party to use the dragon's hourglass when I arrived. Should that not be furnished by the government of Melomarc in some way if the church is not willing to waive the fee due to expense or some other reason? As the country that summoned the heroes they should logically be responsible for furnishing the required needs of the heroes and their parties to do what is requested of them rather than pay a bureaucratic fee. (King ain't here to talk his way out of this shit. woohoo!) (If we're lucky Melty might notice that the rulings would technically extend to Nick too.)
(If they still refuse then we got our excuse to do the charging for the XP bonus thing since I've noticed it hasn't happened yet which made me assume the church probably shut it down?)
>>
Is the village on the sides of the canyon or actually on the bottom where all sorts of flash floods are prone to happening?

If it's on the actual sides of the cliff we could make a dam and break said dam after trapping it at a low altitude so that it gets flash flooded. Preferably with the Church blessing the water to essentially engulf them all in holy water.
The logistics of blessing that much water at once is probably too much. But it's a fun idea.
>>
>>3498956

Bottom right side of the canyon. Far enough to avoid drastic damages from a flood.
>>
>>3499081
It's still trying to use water against a boat. A stupid idea in retrospect, and knowing the way things went last time there's probably plenty of people in the flood zone that wouldn't get informed.
>>
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>3498893
>>3498938
>>
>>3498893

You mention to the group that a week before the wave that you will set up a fortification for the civilians to take cover in to mitigate damages. In addition, you ask that the nearby villages are able to reach this fort within a day and are notified before hand. After that, you mention your previous plan of two fighters working together to take out the boss while the other two work on defending the civilians.

"I think I'll support Sir Flaithrí on this idea. He was the one who did the most work on the chimera. So he should have top say how we should tackle this wave."

"I also agree on this. The Pincer method isn't exactly going to work for a giant ship like this. And if we lure it into the lower levels of the canyon and weight it down like an anchor, it won't be able to escape anyway right?

It felt a bit strange to have Lucien supporting you of your plan. Riku was one thing, especially considering how many different types of monsters he fought. He probably knows how to deal with ghost ships as well. But you was expected Lucien to use this to evaluate his standing. You are lead to believe he didn't want the church completely calling the shots this time.

"I'm fine with going with our noble spear hero's plan. But I just a slight adjustment to it. We send both Sir Flaithri and Sir Riku on to the ship and have Lord Lucien support the shield hero. Both you and Riku's weapons aren't that effective in the long range. And if we are to deal with this appropriately, we need to regulate our attack forces accordingly. The bow however is versatile and can change tactics in a heartbeat. Combined with the shield acting as a defense, the villagers will be more than enough protected while giving Lord Lucien protection as he mow down the monsters. Am I not mistaken?"

Once again this seem like another means to keep you and Nickolas from working together. Of course it wouldn't be that easy.

>Accept and bring up anything else
>Mention the Dragon Hourglass
>Argue against it
>Something else
>>
>>3499160
> Accept and bring up anything else
>>Try to inform Nick of the plan as personally as possible since last time message got lost.

> Bring up the Dragon Hourglass
>> "We can't afford one of Hero parties working suboptimally this close to the Wave. Don't get me wrong I will rank up my party either way but I just wanted to bring this up. As prices seem ridiculous compared to Ranking up humans." Look at Riku as he now has a charge that will have to deal with this sooner or later.
>>
>>3499160
>Bring up the holy water for unlocking new weapons and as a general supply to be transported. We gotta weasel (no pun or insult intended) in some to Nick and Rifa can steal it from the militia directly if they try to stonewall Nick about it.
>>3499406
>Supporting. (If they don't immediately acquiesce) The shield hero has to waste time scrounging for money as it is, If he can't afford the dragon's hourglass, his party would eventually lag behind further. There is little point in punishing them for the sins of another and it serves as a roadblock to bringing any new members of any hero party up to task.
>>
>>3499633
>And ask Malty (The short lesbian one. I always mix up their dumb names) what her opinion is, as future queen she will eventually need to be more active and it's always important to view as many perspectives as possible during counsel. Everyone thinks in different ways which also means there are things that can be missed by having a certain worldview.
>>
>>3499406
>>3499633
>>3499642

You don't argue with the plan, there was more pressing matters. And if nothing else, you manage to change things to your way this time. That said, you mention that the possibility of zombies and undead creatures. You talk about the myths of your home world >>3498938 as you strongly believed that the heroes should better inform their party about the dangers. As well, you strongly suggest that holy water should be brought in to fight against the undead. And the heroes needed it to unlock new weapons to combat against them.

There was no disagreement about this and soon enough you would get that general supply of holy water to put into your spear. The real intent of your plan was naturally hidden from sight. You don't let up however as you bring up the dragon hourglass next. You try and pick apart how it was handled in the sense that you want all the heroes to optimize their party members. You were all fighting to save the world, so if you have to pay then the prices should be more fair. After all, the kingdom is suppose to support the heroes to make sure they do their job. Lastly you make sure that Melty throw in her opinions on all of this and push for her to be more active.

"I have no problems with that, how about you Pope Gregory..."

"..I have no quarrels about that. You truly have a noble heart to be caring about the foundations of teamwork and wanting everyone to be under god's embrace. We'll let you class up freely without issue. So please...be sure to show us the faith of a real hero like we all believed you to be."

Although you clearly won, it feels like that you were about to set yourself up for some trouble. Still, at least you managed to get them back for Rifana and Aden. Once the meeting is over did you start to take care of the class ups with the remaining party members one by one.

What do you do now that the meeting is over?
>>
>>3499902
>Talk to Vivian she looked like she wanted to speak.
>>After that contact Nick about the plan if you can't leave a message at the weapons shop.
>>
>>3499902
>>3499953
>Supporting

>Contact Nick. If he doesn't listen to us giving big giant hints about how there will be stocks of holy water then leave the message at the weapons shop as well as the general info. The weapon's shop guy is the one making gear for shield hero anyway so it's important that he know what sort of prospective battles his client will be going through.
>Ask Blake if she saw anything once we're in a safer spot as well as if she can do a class up. If she can, we test it out on some random creature first to make sure Blake doesn't explode it. If the church still refuses to class up Raph and co we can have Blake do it during the wave.
>In light of the Jim Crow It might be time for some history lessons about our world to better understand cultural differences/values. I think a general overview of the atlantic slave trade as well as "The History of Mary
Prince" or Any of Frederick Douglas' works should cover the background needed to even get into Jim Crow. The History of Mary Prince is more relevant and likeley to be saved as an Ebook to an Irishman since her account was a major part of Britain banning slavery across it's empire. Since we have different cultural values I'm hoping this brings a little bit more understanding as to what we view as right and wrong. I'm really hoping this doesn't attract certain shitposters. I'd been avoiding the discrimination topic so that they wouldn't notice and flood the quest with stupidity.

>Read the help text for the spear of Lust since we didn't actually check to see what it was after it was unlocked.

>I guess go to the town to fortify it and level up some more?
>>
>>3500202
And I totally forgot that the moral of the story is that heroes really hate slavery and it existing is one of the first indications that something is wrong to them
>>
>>3499953
>>3500202

You wanted to talk to Vivian, especially considering that Sigurd talked about her home Kingdom. And seeing what has happened to Melody made poor Vivian queasy and uneasy. Then there was the one being the first one to get a class up as well when Aden and Rifana were unable. Unfortunately, talking would have to wait until you take care of all your other plans.

But first thing first, you decide to contact Nick through your spearphone. You showed him the meeting as well as given him hints about what the stock and supplies will be given to the heroes and be hosted in the area. Erhand was going to get those supplies as well so Nickolas should use them to the best of his ability. He's slowly coming to your suggestion that someone may be trying to use a doppelganger to cause trouble to both of you. Yet he was still in skeptical mode. It was understandable considering how much this country was trying to get him. Either way, you sent the message and that was good enough for now.

After that, you went to talk to Blake one on one if she could recreate the class up. Blake looks at you for a bit while thinking rather closely. You look for some caterpillars and other weak monsters to try and

"Blake thinks....Blake can do this....maybe."

Blake tries to trigger a class up. It was harder to do than either of you considered given that Blake was using her own power to do so. Although, with the power of the Spear, it seams that it was resonating well with Blake. The Caterpillar ended up transforming into a dragon fly. It was good enough for a first experiment, but it was probably best to let Blake gradually practice this and get stronger before Blake would really be able to replicate the effects of a class up on people like Rifana and Aden. Just doing the Caterpillar ended up tiring Blake out. Still, that dragon fly was impressive as it followed you during your trip to fortify the

What do you do now?

>Go ham with the fortifying
>Adopt the Dragonfly
>Something else
>>
>>3501099
>Adopt the Dragonfly
Admire it with the party then
>Go ham with the fortifying
>>
>>3501194
+1
>>
>>3501099
>Adopt the dragonfly. We want to keep an eye on it's long term health. Not really sure how you adopt it, but whatever.
>Make fortifications and maybe a rough stone road for the incoming armies/militia to travel easier via semi creative use of the architecture spear if we don't grab a loose cobblestone to put into the spear?
>Ask around about nearby towns or homes that might need to be informed about the coming wave.
>>
>>3501194
>>3501223
>>3501242

You decide to adopt the dragonfly into your crew. You wanted to see it's long time health and it already seem to have bonded to both you and Blake quite well.Blake was especially happy about this. It was like Blake got herself her first follower. Dragons were still creatures of great pride after all.

Once you made your way to the village, you decide to go complete ham with the fortifying. You wanted to prepare for as many situations as logically possible. With how the knights were being run, it was better to assume them to be completely incompetent. So you use your architecture spear to make the fortifications and stone road for the incoming armies. You start to think you could probably make a living making roads and easier traveling pathways for the kingdom. You also found a cobblestone to extend your architecture capabilities even further.

While you was tending to this land, you made sure to ask about the nearby towns and homes that were around the area. You are indeed alerted about what other towns that were in the area. Naturally, you planned out trips to go to those locations and fortify them as well. You didn't want the same thing that happened in lute village to happen again. You was going to use what you learned from the past wave to rectify any possible shortcomings.

>What do you do during the last week?
>>
>>3501288
If Nick isn't already there for the parties to work out what they want to do overall, then we should get our level grind on with the final day being rest/preparation if the local wildlife can support it.
>Ask what happened to that renting out time in the hero party idea. I've not heard anything, so I'm suspecting the church declared it blasphemy or something stupid
>If anyone in town stood out as an actually decent person we can invite them to get some levels with us too while warning them that leveling too fast can kill a person, so they need to retreat and be satisfied with what they managed to get once things get risky. With luck we can make a team of people that won't be assholes mad with power. Warn that the country has ways to reset people to level one, so even if you get tempted to do something stupid, dont.

What's the dragonfly look like? Does it look like a tiny puk from FF11 due to the butterfly wings?
>>
>>3501341
>Oh and since we might need to resupply. We can pay somebody to make a supply cache for us to make our way to once we teleport in? Gotta save item box room for loot unless the item box is freakin huge
>Tell Rifa to remember where the knights are storing the holy water. It's officially for the heroes to cure cursed combatants and Raphallia is a cursed combatant. Ergo if the knights try to stop her from getting treatment then it's ok for her to make sure she gets her holy water for treatment.
>>
>>3501369
And take our own advice about warning the party about monsters known in legends. Tell them about any monsters known in stories in groups of 3. Eg the Gorgon sisters. Those ones are a particular problem since the hero that defeated them did so while they were asleep, while having tons of enchanted gear, and having to navigate via a mirrored shield. We're relegated to saving the town since the Church transparently wants to show more favor to the other heroes right now, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't be vigilant against any surprises.
>>
File: 4136.jpg (53 KB, 416x416)
53 KB
53 KB JPG
>>3501341

Yeah sure but it's much cuter
>>
>>3501435
He only killed one sister, the one that was made Mortal for some odd reason. As far as I know the other two were Gods.
>>
>>3501527
That just makes it even worse.if we ever ran ito them and they weren't appropriately nerfed into videogame form.
>>3501523
I pictured the wings to be more like butterflies
>>
Could this be Odysseus's crew? I mean, if QM changed it to be more Greek it would make sense.
>>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2CTVqt2wxU
Rifana's animal form
The cutest.
>>
>>3501341
>>3501369

Nickolas had ended up leaving due to a scuffle with the church over class ups. Something that you and end ended up sharing from the looks of it. You probably assume that it was because both of you were the only ones who had demi-humans and monsters in your party. It was worse for Nick given that he was also the infamous shield hero. So even if his party was normal, they probably wouldn't allow the class up. Still, you leave message for him to follow about the plan.

After that you spent your remaining week getting your level grinding. Through diligence and hard work, you manage to make it to level fifty. As you expected, the levels were starting to get higher to achieve. Even with your legendary spear helping it was still a chore. You almost wish you had the shield since it surely must give more boosts for improvement.

During those times, you asked Elena about the hero party idea. She was...oddly surprised you didn't ask about it sooner. Between all the stuff you been doing in the months, could you really blame yourself that you forgot about it? Anyway, the two of you started to recruit people to take part in the boosting. You stuck to your guns only picking out decent people while establishing bonds with them. It was oddly refreshing knowing you now have a backup team of people and demi-humans to work alongside one another. They were mainly commoners and regular adventures but you felt more akin to them then the nobles.

Rifana meanwhile kept track of the supplies, especially the holy water. She didn't have much trouble getting the holy water to Raphtalia. Her weasel form made it easier for her to sneak by without the tanuki noticing. Either way, she also made sure the Supply cache was made alongside Elena acting as your merchant to make sure they gave you the best quality. You wanted to be sure you didn't get cheated on even in these times of great need.

Eventually it was just a couple of minutes till the third wave. You spent the last day resting and preparing for your next fight. The party was probably sick of your different greek and roman talk as being part of the preparation. But it didn't matter, you and your crew were ready for whatever threat was going to hit you.

Meanwhile, as the wave begins A mysterious woman with raven haired watched from afar with a smile on her face.
>>
>>3502988

And that does it for month two. Thanks so much for the hard work. The next one will be quite the doozy to get through as...honestly we're about to reach the climax of the first arc of this game.

Really need to get to finishing those spears. So please bare with me.
>>
>>3502991
Np. This was the point weree Nick really pulled ahead the others and the 3 got their ass handed to them. It's only logical that this will be importaint for us.
>>
>>3503053 new thread for the stagglers



Delete Post: [File Only] Style:
[Disable Mobile View / Use Desktop Site]

[Enable Mobile View / Use Mobile Site]

All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective parties. Images uploaded are the responsibility of the Poster. Comments are owned by the Poster.