>>3483060
After a moment, you nod quietly. “Okay. Most warriors don't just push their abilities that hard without a reason, especially not before their first official mission.”

“You want to know what drove me to that,” she summarizes.

You nod again, this time silently.

It takes a few deep breaths before Valentina speaks. “You mentioned that you led a group of trainees on a mission.”

“I did.”

“Our mission also encountered a problem,” Valentina continues slowly, deliberately. “We were with the number Nine at the time, who lost an arm due to a mistake one of us made. It was because of that my friend lost her life, followed by the former number Nine who gave her life to protect the two of us who survived.”

You remain silent... at least, until you're sure that she's anticipating a reply.

“It sounds like when I lost Emma,” you sigh. “So that's what drove you to improve, to the extent that you were willing to take extreme risks.”

“It was Audrey who gave her life for me,” Valentina observes quietly. “I may just be a simple farm girl, but even I have a sense of duty.”

>Don't press. That should illustrate the point that such tragedies are how the Organization operates.
>You're curious about what she was doing that pushed her over the edge. You're willing to offer more details yourself in exchange.
>Offer a detail of your own first. Just try and be open towards her instead of making this awkward.
>Other?

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>>3483090
>>Offer a detail of your own first. Just try and be open towards her instead of making this awkward.
Equivalent exchange.

>>3483090
>Offer a detail of your own first. Just try and be open towards her instead of making this awkward.

>>3483090
>>Offer a detail of your own first. Just try and be open towards her instead of making this awkward.

>>3483090
>>Offer a detail of your own first. Just try and be open towards her instead of making this awkward.

>>3483090
>>Offer a detail of your own first. Just try and be open towards her instead of making this awkward.

>>3483090
>>Offer a detail of your own first. Just try and be open towards her instead of making this awkward.

>>3483090
>Offer a detail of your own first. Just try and be open towards her instead of making this awkward.

>>3483090
>>Offer a detail of your own first. Just try and be open towards her instead of making this awkward.

>>3483090
>>Offer a detail of your own first. Just try and be open towards her instead of making this awkward.

>>3483090
Seems pretty conclusive, so what details would y'all feel like sharing?

>>3483538
How we awakened

>>3483538
the First hunt? Who if anyone we lsot and what we hunted.

If first almost awakening, how we more or less got pushed to get good or die, and even then it wasn't wholly enough.

>>3483538
how we awakend and the moment after, the talk with the awakend, but sane AB we talked to
how her friend saw her one last time before she died

its a good story

>>3483538
>Update incoming

>>3486185
It was a cold spring morning in Bretonne. The drizzle was miserable even despite your innate resistance to the cold, clinging to your skin like a damp and stifling shroud. The village of Clanachan lay before you, and you could already sense that you were the last one to arrive.

The townsfolk were already terrified, but you were used to that. A little boy who clearly didn't know any better was playing in front of what you presumed was his home, losing a ball into the street as you passed. When he tried to chase it his mother stopped him, having spotted you... and she was terrified when you leaned over to pick up the lost ball.

“Here, little one. Please be more responsible with your things in the future, okay?”

You remember saying words to that effect, and the look of horror on the mother's face as she dragged her child inside. You didn't think you were that scary at the time, but after a while you realized that appearances and mannerisms could only get you so far. People weren't afraid of you because of who you were but rather what.

“Hey! Over here, Noel!”

You can still remember the warmth and cheer in her voice when she saw you, that earnestness you valued so highly.

“Emma,” you remember replying with a warm smile of your own, a sight that she would have considered all-too rare. Something which for the most part was reserved for her... the first person you opened up to after your father was murdered, the one person you'd relied on since that horrible day. You were quick to embrace her.

“Good to see you again.”

The other two warriors, who Emma would later introduce as Talia and Samara, were shocked. Of course they'd heard of your reputation as the number seventeen warrior, the one who never smiles and rarely speaks. They would have been taken completely off guard by your sudden affection. Looking back you feel like you didn't show that side of yourself enough.

She quickly ran through the details, it was a hunt for an awakened being that was suspected to be menacing coastal communities. You were to engage that awakened being and destroy it. If you had known how things were going to go you might have refused the mission, but at the time you had complete confidence.

The others seemed similarly confident.

Talia was the first to die. You got to know her a little: she had a beautiful singing voice, which made her a valued servant in her former master's home. But after surviving the Organization's procedures and training her life ended with a monster's hand shoved through her chest. Her voice is silent now.

The next was Samara, an avid reader who was once the daughter of a bookbinder. She spent her childhood filling her head with fantastic stories and a wide variety of facts, only for an awakened being to smash that head open against a rock without care for what thoughts might have lived there.
>1/?

>>3486404
Then, your worst nightmare: in the midst of a coordinated attack, Emma was dealt a fatal blow as well. Your wound you could recover from: hers, she never would.

“It's... okay...” she reassured you at the time, hand blindly reaching for your face. “We're... finally even.”

You didn't understand those words at the time, and you can't remember what you said to her after that. It's a blur. All you can remember is the feel of her hand slowly going cold in yours, the realization that she could no longer hear you and never would ever again. This was the young woman who had given you hope, who had propped you up when you were at your weakest.

'Even'? Not even close.

In the end you were the one who had to bury them all. Emma was gone but for the crossguard of her sword which you still carry with you to this day, and for the memories of her you still cherish. With the benefit of some time you realized that you could never be 'even' with her any more than she could be with you: that's what she meant. She felt just as indebted to you as you did to her, and would risk her life for you just as quickly as you would risk yours for hers.

That's who the two of you were. That was the love you felt for each other, which survived Emma's death.

But what went wrong on that day? That is the lingering question that you were left with, and for a long time you couldn't really figure it out. But eventually you figured it out... the Organization must have told Emma that the awakened being you were meant to fight was an offensive-type ranked number 12 at the time of her awakening, when in reality she was a defensive type.

That was the only possible explanation for why even Emma would be surprised by the target's rate of regeneration. Serana lost her arm on a similar mission, which you suspect was 'botched' by design. You were nearly killed by Saria on a mission you had no business being on in the first place. Olivia died on a mission that her diminished skills were probably longer sufficient to see her through. You had to fight off a literal army of yōma not long before this last mission, to protect the new girls who were your charges... literally everyone you're close to has had a similar experience.

And that's what you tell Valentina. Your mother, your father, all of your friends both living and dead... even Valentina herself... everyone you love has suffered at the hands of the Organization, and many of them were either killed or sent to their deaths by the Organization's whims.

Valentina falls silent, all the way back to the castle in fact.

You don't press her for a reply.
>2/3

>>3486471
“That's not how this works,” she eventually repeats herself again, this time within sight of the walls. “You give, and I give. That's the principle at work here, Noel Tiberius di Hazaran.”

“You don't have to give me anything,” you try to insist quietly. “Even just listening was...”

“The name on my black card,” she interrupts you. “It's yours.”

You pause for a moment, baffled. “What?”

“The warrior I trust most,” Valentina replies. “To whom I'd trust my human soul if it came to that. It's you.”

“Not Helen?” you ask, still stunned. “I mean, haven't you known her for much longer?”

Valentina shakes her head slowly. “Yes, that's true... but she never opened herself up to me the same way you did... and I've never felt like doing so to her either. I've said it before, and I'm sure she has too... you have an effect on people, Noel. I'm sure everyone you've lost felt the same way, even if you still blame yourself for not knowing them better than you did, or for being distant.”

“You should open up to some of the others too, if you don't mind me suggesting it. Lucia, Sabrina, even Justina... they're skittish around you because they can't see what's in your heart the way Serana and I have.”

>Thank her, store the jars and the swords, and head upstairs to rest. You could all use that... tomorrow is going to be rough, emotionally speaking.
>Suggest a meeting upstairs. You are after all the host... see if there's anything any of your fellow warriors might want that would make them feel more at home.
>A nice dinner would be good. Have Dominica whip something up to eat in the Hazari royal style, give them the lavish treatment you feel they deserve.
>Other?

>>3486496
>>Suggest a meeting upstairs. You are after all the host... see if there's anything any of your fellow warriors might want that would make them feel more at home.

>>3486496
>>Suggest a meeting upstairs. You are after all the host... see if there's anything any of your fellow warriors might want that would make them feel more at home.

>>3486496
>Suggest a meeting upstairs. You are after all the host... see if there's anything any of your fellow warriors might want that would make them feel more at home.

>>3486496
>Suggest a meeting upstairs. You are after all the host... see if there's anything any of your fellow warriors might want that would make them feel more at home.

>>3486496
>Thank her, store the jars and the swords, and head upstairs to rest. You could all use that... tomorrow is going to be rough, emotionally speaking.

And for the record: the Organization might not have intentionally misinformed Emma. When warriors awaken, their capabilities generally improve across the board. It's entirely possible for an offensive type to gain a surprising amount of recovery ability once awakened. Alternatively, all awakened seem to gain a degree of malleability with their bodies; stretching limbs and shifting organs and suchlike. A clever awakened could use that to either mitigate or feign more serious injury.

Ultimately, the Organization doesn't seem to try all that hard (usually) to construct situations where warriors have zero chance to survive; it's more like they are just recklessly throwing them around and seeing what happens.

Callous more than sinister is the impression I get. Well, callous AND sinister I suppose. Point is: their goals are not simply explained.

>>3486496
>>A nice dinner would be good. Have Dominica whip something up to eat in the Hazari royal style, give them the lavish treatment you feel they deserve.

>>3486496
After weighing her words for a few minutes, you recall something she said earlier... “no more secrets”, she said. Maybe you didn't give her quite enough credit, or else maybe you were just a bit blinded by years of keeping secrets from those around you. Either way, you didn't realize what she might well have meant at first. But hearing her say it so clearly now makes it impossible to overlook.

You haven't been honest with yourself in a very long time.

“Let's head upstairs,” you sigh. “Catch the others up.”

Valentina nods in agreement. “What should we do with these?”

Once Alysheba is stabled, you quickly decide to leave the five swords and ceramic jars in the first floor reception hall, tucked into the corner nearest the door. They'll be out of the way there, but near at hand when you take them outside to be buried tomorrow morning.

Upstairs you find that Laura has moved out into the sitting room that serves as a landing, her limbs apparently now functional... at least in the basic sense of the word.

“Good to see you up and about,” you greet her.

She smiles back. “It certainly feels good. A little awkward at first, but I'll get the hang of it.”

Helen pokes her head out of her own quarters. “You returned already? How did it go?”

“Sabela had already made preparations,” you sigh. “They're all down in the reception hall. We can bury them tomorrow morning when there's light.”

“Sabela did?” she repeats with a frown. “I suppose there was some truth in what Laura said after all.”

“I told them that awakening seems to be multiplicative, rather than additive or subtractive,” Laura explains.

You can't help but nod. “That matches what I've seen.”

“What does that mean?” Valentina whispers over your shoulder.

“That awakening doesn't add any characteristics that weren't there before,” you mutter back. “Or remove any that were there. It only makes what was there before more pronounced.”

“Like a warrior who was ruthless before becomes even more cruel?” she asks.

“Or how one who loved their fellow warriors and hated the yōma would turn on the Organization,” Laura adds. “And go to any lengths to protect what she loves, including things that would turn those same warriors against her.”

“So where does that leave Sabela, then?”
>1/2

>>3488172
Helen's question is one you honestly can't answer, so you glance at Laura. Her response comes with a heavy sigh.

“She's neither our enemy nor our ally,” Laura admits. “She acts in what she thinks is our interest, but I can't say for sure what her personality is like or what extremes she'd be willing to go to. She may not be much different than she was when I knew her as the number One, or she might burn down civilization itself to protect the one she loves most.”

Laura glances at you. “I cannot say for certain. I'd like to think the best of her even now, but sentiments cannot be allowed to cloud our judgment.”

You shake your head. “Helen, could you bring everyone out please? There's something I'd like to say.”

Helen nods. “Sure. One second.”

Her head disappears again, and a few minutes later all your fellow survivors are gathered in the sitting room together.

“So, this is bound to be our home for a little while,” you sigh, thinking over your words carefully. “I certainly can't say I'm used to staying in one place for too long, and I gather most of you will be the same?”

There are a few quiet nods, but mostly silence.

“Seeing as this is my house, and I'm technically your host,” you continue awkwardly, “I wanted to know if there was anything more you might want, to make this feel more... comfortable, I guess. More like home rather than just a place where you sleep sometimes.”

“Why do you care?” Sabrina mutters.

Ouch.

You're about to respond, when Serana starts signing furiously with her remaining hand, a look of fury etched into her features.

OF ALL THE WARRIORS I HAVE MET OVER THE YEARS ONLY SHE AND OLIVIA HAVE HAD SO KIND A HEART, SO GENUINE AND GENEROUS A SPIRIT. NOEL WOULD GLADLY RISK EVERYTHING TO PROTECT YOU EVEN NOW WHEN YOU'RE BEING SO UNFAIR TOWARDS HER. ONE DAY YOU'LL LOOK BACK AT YOUR BEHAVIOR WITH SHAME, MADE WORSE BY THE FACT THAT SHE'LL HAVE NEVER HELD SUCH SHAMEFUL CONDUCT AGAINST YOU.

Lucia raises an eyebrow at the display of hand-based shouting. “What's she saying?”

Valentina coughs... you almost forgot, she learned a little bit of this language, and so she probably got the gist of it. At very least it would be obvious to her just how upset Serana is.

>Repeat what Serana said, word for word.
>She's lost her patience with the way some of you have been acting, that's all.
>She thinks Sabrina's being unfair.
>Suggest that the rest of them have some reading to do. You're not always going to be around to play interpreter.
>Other?

>>3488175
>>Repeat what Serana said, word for word.
>Suggest that the rest of them have some reading to do. You're not always going to be around to play interpreter.

>>3488175
>>Suggest that the rest of them have some reading to do. You're not always going to be around to play interpreter.

>>3488175
>Suggest that the rest of them have some reading to do. You're not always going to be around to play interpreter.

>>3488175
>She thinks Sabrina's being unfair.
>If I repeated what she said, word for word, it would not seem as genuine as it was from herself.
>>Suggest that the rest of them have some reading to do. You're not always going to be around to play interpreter.
Also, like, thanks Serana

>>3488175
>She thinks Sabrina's being unfair.
>Suggest that the rest of them have some reading to do. You're not always going to be around to play interpreter.

>>3488267
>>3488175
supporting this

>>3488175
>>3488267
This

>>3488175
Supporting >>3488267
Also, the notion that Awakening only strengthens a warrior's personality traits is rather scary. Because although we know a lot of warriors who seem to be nice people, of all the Awakened Beings we saw Sabela was the only sane one.

>>3488702
less sane, more benevolent/sympathetic, we haven't yet seen what her worst personality traits are

>>3488725
Imagine Sabela and the sheer destruction she would cause when she goes Mama bear mode. Then multiply that by 5 kingdoms.

Just had a thought: the 'ashes' from cremation are mostly just bone dust which have to be pulverized from the burnt remains before burial. I don't doubt that Sabela would have that capability, but it does mean she put some effort and thought into it. Probably felt pretty strongly about it.

Oh, and as for the multiplicative not additive thing, I don't buy that for a minute. Unless everyone was a closet sociopath/cannibal on some level beforehand. Awakened frequently turn on their fellow warriors immediately without so much as a second thought and without apparent cause. It's complicated to say the least.

>>3489299
They often turn on them in a combination of hunger, and "well they're going to try and kill em anyways, so fuck em" remember Claymores are trained and molded into be massive loners who seldom speak too or interact with anyone and to always put themselves and the mission first.

It's basically the Org's indoctrination biting them in the ass at that point.

>>3488702
Not quite the battle maniac's sisters and Silver General were both sane, just had an inhuman mindset. Hell the silver general pretending to be a claymore for a while even.

>>3488175
“She's angry because she thinks you're being unfair towards me,” you sigh, shaking your head at Serana before turning your attention back to Sabrina. Then you walk over to the table at the center of the room and set your book on it. “If you want to know more than that ask her yourself. Or even better, put some effort into learning how to understand her. I won't always be around to play interpreter for you, after all.”

“I'm going to sleep,” you declare, ready to walk out of the room. “Write out any requests you might have and I'll work on it after we see to our fallen comrades tomorrow morning.”

Along the way you rest a hand gently on Serana's shoulders, and give her a small, reassuring smile. Without any further words to exchange, you head to your bed and fall into it, determined to start fresh in the morning.
>1/2

>3d10, best of three

Rolled 8, 4, 1 = 13 (3d10)

>>3489420

>>3489420
To clarify: this IS a roll call.

Rolled 8, 9, 7 = 24 (3d10)

>>3489420

Rolled 5, 7, 1 = 13 (3d10)

>>3489420
>>3489503
oh i know, the rolls in SSQ were just so abysmal that i do not want to try to roll

Rolled 1, 1, 9 = 11 (3d10)

>>3489420

I think the awakening imparts a bunch of instincts and behaviors plus some unpredictable eccentricities that vary depending upon the individual. That last part is the closest to the multiplicative thing I think.

It also tends to erode restraint, self-awareness and interpersonal skills while amplifying and warping the expression of aggressive or predatory tendencies to bath salts levels: defensive instincts too. Their perception of reality also often seems warped.

Older awakened generally appear more lucid. Presumably their minds have had time to adapt and stabilize, somewhat.

While it's almost certainly true that the awakening process doesn't bring out any character traits that weren't based on something, all the possible ways those traits could be perverted in the process: no sane mind could comprehend.

I would advise against banking on any assumptions about what a warrior would be like if awakened based on what they were like before. You might be right, you might be tragically wrong. Nobody said you had to multiply using only positive numbers, so to speak.

>>3489420
It's some time in the middle of the night when you hear raised voices outside your room.

“It's the middle of the night!” you can hear Helen's voice clearly hiss. “Both of you knock it off already!”

“I can't believe you're taking her side, Helen!” you hear Sabrina protest.

“I'm not taking any sides,” Helen insists sternly. “But Valentina is right. You've misplaced your anger.”

“And she threw a...”

“Like I said, any of us would have gotten tired of that!” Valentina snaps. “Just... by the Twins, give her a chance.”

>Step back out, say a few words, go back to sleep.
>Step back out, ask to speak to Sabrina privately.
>Just don't bother.
>Other?

>>3489598
>Step back out, say a few words, go back to sleep.

>>3489598
>>Step back out, ask to speak to Sabrina privately.

>>3489598
>Don't bother
NOEL SLEEPY

Sabrina needs time to calm down anyway

>>3489598
>>Step back out, ask to speak to Sabrina privately.

better not let this fester, but grumble at everyone for waking us

>>3489598
supporting this >>3489621

>>3489598
>>Step back out, ask to speak to Sabrina privately.

>>3489598
>>Step back out, say a few words, go back to sleep.

>>3489598
>Step back out, ask to speak to Sabrina privately.

>>3489598
>Just don't bother.

>>3489598
>Other
>lie down
>try not to cry
>cry a lot

>>3489598
>>Just don't bother.
Go back to bed.

>>3489598
>Step back out, say a few words, go back to sleep.

>>3489598
>Just don't bother.
Too tired for this shit.

>>3489598
>Just don't bother.

>>3489598
You decide that the correct approach is a simple one: you roll over and go back to sleep.

Thankfully there are no further disturbances, so it's easy enough to do. When you wake in the morning you quickly dress and head downstairs to find that the only ones up and about are Lucia and Dominica, both of whom are in the kitchen apparently having a very calm and quiet argument.

“I'm sorry little miss,” Dominica insists, “but I won't have it.”

“I just feel like I need to be use...”

Lucia falls silent as she notices you, but that doesn't slow you down. “Come on, Dominica. Let her help.”

You immediately pick up a serrated knife and slice into a loaf of bread.

Dominica sighs. “Alright, alright you little... you can help with some of the cooking.”

Lucia's mood brightens immediately, if only slightly.

“Remember that we don't eat as much as normal people, Dominica,” you remind your former servant as you slice off a few more equal pieces of the loaf. “Think of it as cooking for three or four of us.”

“Gods above!” Dominica huffs. “Whatever happened to you, Lady Noel? Used to be you had an appetite like ten men after a day-long march!”

“Still do,” you shrug, giving Lucia a knowing glance, “at least comparatively speaking.”

“So this is where you...” Sabrina begins, before she abruptly shuts up as well.

“You folk really ought to learn how to finish your sentences,” Dominica muses, before turning back to Lucia's attempts to heat a skillet full of oil over an open flame. “Here, raise it up higher to heat the oil slower. Like this...”

“Can I borrow you a moment?” you ask Sabrina, putting aside the knife and loading the diagonally-cut slices of bread onto the toast rack before walking towards your fellow warrior and grabbing her firmly by the shoulder. “I'd like to speak with you... alone.”

“I...” she begins, before you pull her out the door by the shoulder.

“Great, come along now. Don't be shy.”
>1/2

>>3491235
You lead her out into the hallway, and eventually out into the courtyard. To the left of the entrance is your favorite place on the castle's rather modest grounds... a distinctly immodest place, and a beautiful one.

“You saw this tree on the way in, didn't you?” you ask thoughtfully, laying your hands against the trunk of the small cherry tree tucked into the corner here: very much visible, especially now when it's in bloom, but also out of the way.

Sabrina nods, still giving you ample distance. “I did. I was surprised to find something so beautiful planted here of all places.”

“Would you like me to tell you about it?” you offer. “There's a story behind it.”

She frowns at first, but after a moment nods. “Sure, why not.”

“See, this tree and I have something in common,” you explain. “We're just about the exact same age.”

“Is that so?”

You nod. “My father had it planted when I showed up on his doorstep one morning. Declared that so long as I lived, so would this tree.”

“I was surprised to see it still growing here after so many years. I guess that someone with the authority to make such a decision held out hope that whole time that I still lived.”

Sabrina stares at the tree for a few minutes before speaking. “You heard us last night, didn't you.”

“I was asleep,” you point out, “not dead. Of course I heard you.”

“And you did nothing about it?”

You shake your head. “No, I did do something about it... I ignored it. It's not my purpose to determine what you should and shouldn't think, nor is it my right to punish you for having an opinion. The only choice I have is to try and show you the person I choose to be, and hope you find that person deserving of your camaraderie.”

“Then... why go to the trouble of bringing me out here?” she asks, obviously confused.

CHOOSE EXACTLY ONE:
>I didn't want the others to overhear it. Morale is already low enough without airing our grievances openly.
>I thought this would be a fine spot to bury our friends, and I'll need your help to make it happen as it should.
>No particular reason, other than a lingering sentimentality. I guess I still haven't come to terms with the situation myself.
>Other?

>>3491310
>I didn't want the others to overhear it. Morale is already low enough without airing our grievances openly.

>>3491310
>Didn't want to publicly infight

>>3491310
>I thought this would be a fine spot to bury our friends, and I'll need your help to make it happen as it should.

>>3491310
>I thought this would be a fine spot to bury our friends, and I'll need your help to make it happen as it should.
Actions speak louder than words after all.

>>3491310
>>I thought this would be a fine spot to bury our friends, and I'll need your help to make it happen as it should.

>>3491310
>>I didn't want the others to overhear it. Morale is already low enough without airing our grievances openly.

>>3491310
>>I thought this would be a fine spot to bury our friends, and I'll need your help to make it happen as it should.

>>3491310
>I thought this would be a fine spot to bury our friends, and I'll need your help to make it happen as it should.

>>3491310
>3d10, best of four

Rolled 5, 7, 4 + 4 = 20 (3d10 + 4)

>>3492085

Rolled 2, 2, 4 = 8 (3d10)

>>3492085

Rolled 4, 1, 10 = 15 (3d10)

>>3492085

Rolled 10, 6, 2 = 18 (3d10)

>>3492085

Rolled 8, 7, 4 = 19 (3d10)

>>3492085

>>3492085
“I was thinking this would be a suitable place to lay our friends to rest,” you muse, sparing Sabrina a glance. “What do you think?”

Sabrina shuts her eyes, and considers her words carefully. Eventually, she sighs.

“I can see what you were going for,” she admits, “but this place has sentimental value to you, doesn't it?”

“It does,” you admit.

“Then best not to lessen its beauty by attaching an ugly memory to it,” Sabrina decides. “There must be some other place that would be suitable.”

After a moment, you nod in agreement. “There are a few places that come to mind.”

“Then write out a list,” she suggests. “Lucia or I can make the decision.”

“Better to be Lucia,” you shake your head. “I need your help with something.”

“Oh?” she asks. “And what possible reason could there be behind this sudden request?”

>Because I want to get to know you all better, and I want you all to know me better as well. This is an opportunity.
>Because I didn't know Greta. You did, so an appeal from you will carry some meaning when we try to convince the priest to give our friends a proper burial.
>I only think strategically where yōma and politics are concerned. With people, I go by what feels right. I'm asking for your help because it feels right.
>Other?

>>3492174
>>I only think strategically where yōma and politics are concerned. With people, I go by what feels right. I'm asking for your help because it feels right.

>>3492174
>I only think strategically where yōma and politics are concerned. With people, I go by what feels right. I'm asking for your help because it feels right.

>>3492174
>Because I didn't know Greta. You did, so an appeal from you will carry some meaning when we try to convince the priest to give our friends a proper burial.

>>3492174
>>Because I didn't know Greta. You did, so an appeal from you will carry some meaning when we try to convince the priest to give our friends a proper burial.
>>I only think strategically where yōma and politics are concerned. With people, I go by what feels right. I'm asking for your help because it feels right.

>>3492174
>>Because I didn't know Greta. You did, so an appeal from you will carry some meaning when we try to convince the priest to give our friends a proper burial.

>>3492174
>I only think strategically where yōma and politics are concerned. With people, I go by what feels right. I'm asking for your help because it feels right.

>>3492174
>>I only think strategically where yōma and politics are concerned. With people, I go by what feels right. I'm asking for your help because it feels right.

>>3492174
>>Because I want to get to know you all better, and I want you all to know me better as well. This is an opportunity.
>>Because I didn't know Greta. You did, so an appeal from you will carry some meaning when we try to convince the priest to give our friends a proper burial.

>>3492174
“I don't usually think strategically when it comes to people,” you sigh, “only when it's yōma or politics.”

“And which is it in this case?” Sabrina asks.

You shake your head. “If you're going to press me on it, then the real 'strategy' here isn't concerning you. All I want is to ensure that Greta and the others receive proper burials, both for their sakes and for the sakes of those of us who survived. It's the right thing to do, and I want you to be involved with that because I think it's right that you be involved.”

“But...” Sabrina presses.

“But,” you admit, “I can only make those arguments from my own heart, based on my own sense of right and wrong. As clear as that may be to me, I'm not the one who knew the ones we lost well. That would be you and Lucia.”

“So you want someone along who can make a personal appeal,” Sabrina completes the thought.

You shake your head. “Only in so far as it makes it more likely that our friends receive decent treatment. If you feel like I'm using you feel free to decline, I won't make you come along. But the thought HAD crossed my mind that you can make a sort of plea that I can't truly make myself.”

“So, are we going together?”

After considering your offer anew, Sabrina nods. “Yeah. I'll come along. Anything else I should know about?”

You nod. “Inquisition, remember? So no swords.”

Her shoulders immediately slump. “Right, I almost forgot. What a pain...”

“They're not so bad,” you shrug. “Mostly the threat they pose is sneak attacks, and in shooting our handlers. Since we don't have to worry about the latter anymore, just be mindful of the former and you'll do just fine.”

“And if they realize we're here?” she presses.

“I have someone working on that,” you admit. “The real threat is from a lone infiltrator, and the castle used to rely on natural protection for that in the form of rose and thistle hedges.”

“Where are those now?”

“Ripped out by the usurper of my father's throne,” you grumble. “I wonder if he mostly just wanted to destroy something beautiful, or if it was an act of spite towards me and my father?”
>1/2

>>3494628
As you leave the castle, you catch the commander's attention and issue an order.

“Please prepare the ingredients for a large batch of cement, as well as any glass bottles that can be spared,” you order calmly, “and while you're searching fetch the hedgehogs.”

“The hedgehogs?” the man repeats.

You start gesturing vaguely. “Big logs shod in copper, smaller pointier logs coming out of it?”

“We have those?” he asks.

You heave a sigh. “Check in the basement level of the storehouse. If they're still around they were likely disassembled and stored.”

“Will do,” the commander nods.

The trip back into town is a quiet one, as it seems Sabrina isn't in a talkative mood just now. But that's fine by you, you're not about to force a conversation with someone who doesn't feel like talking. And honestly? It feels like progress not to have her yelling at you.

You soon arrive at the church.

>Wait until services are out, then try to catch the head priest alone.
>Head in, use the services as cover, and work your way into confession.
>There must be some junior priest or monk not involved in the services.
>Other?

>>3494674
>There must be some junior priest or monk not involved in the services.

>>3494674
>>Head in, use the services as cover, and work your way into confession.

>>3494674
>>Wait until services are out, then try to catch the head priest alone.

>>3494674
>>There must be some junior priest or monk not involved in the services.
at worst he can give us directions or tipps if we ask nicely

>>3494674
>>There must be some junior priest or monk not involved in the services.

>>3494674
>>There must be some junior priest or monk not involved in the services.

>>3494674
>>Wait until services are out, then try to catch the head priest alone.

>>3494674
>Wait until services are out, then try to catch the head priest alone.

>>3494674
>Head in, use the services as cover, and work your way into confession.

>>3494674
>Head in, use the services as cover, and work your way into confession.

>>3494674
>Wait until services are out, then try to catch the head priest alone.
>Head in, use the services as cover, and work your way into confession.

So we have a three-way tie.

>>3494674
>Wait until services are out, then try to catch the head priest alone.

>>3494674
>>Wait until services are out, then try to catch the head priest alone.

>>3494674
“Let's wait here for now,” you suggest quietly, pointing towards a nearby bench. “Wait for the services to end, then try to catch the head priest alone.”

Sabrina nods quietly, sitting next to you. She glances around the square calmly, seemingly appreciative of the scenery. “This town seems nice.”

“I always found it relaxing to be here,” you admit with a contented sigh. “Certainly much more so than the capital ever was.”

“So... where are you from, Sabrina?”

She pauses to consider your question. “I don't really know, to be honest. I was a slave before the Organization purchased my contract.”

“I'm sorry to hear that,” you shake your head.

“Not like anyone could do anything about it,” she shrugs your discomfort off. “Though I'm really not sure whether my life is better now than it would have been, which is part of why I try not to think about it.”

“So, there was some kind of coup?”

You nod, then explain it quietly and simply. “My father was murdered, and I was impaled by a spear and thrown from a window.”

After a few awkward moments, a question. “Was it a high window?”

“Second floor,” you clarify, “but from an elevated building. So it was a good thirty feet?”

“Damn,” Sabrina whistles. “Quite a fall.”

You remain quiet until the parishioners start to file out of the church. Then, as what you think to be the last of them slips out of the heavy wooden doors, you slip in after them. Up a short flight of stairs the entryway opens up into the nave, at the opposite end of which is a large stained-glass window depicting the twin goddesses. Below this window is a wooden pew, where a man in ecumenical robes is replacing some candles.

“I'm sorry,” he tells you without looking up, “but the church is closed just now. We can't provide any services, so you'll have to come back later.”

“We don't need the church right now,” you counter, continuing to approach the man. “You would be the senior priest?”

He finally glances up at you, seemingly confused by the question. “I am, why do you ask?”

“We need you to provide some services,” you explain.

“Funeral services to be precise,” Sabrina adds.

“There is a process typically observed with this,” the priest frowns. “Have you seen to any of the necessary preparations?”

>The deceased are what you'd call Silver-Eyed Witches.
>We're giving them a noble burial on the loch.
>No. We're trying to keep it quiet.
>Other?

>>3496646
>We're giving them a noble burial on the loch.

>>3496646
>We're giving them a noble burial on the loch.

>>3496646
>>We're giving them a noble burial on the loch.

>>3496646
>We're giving them a noble burial on the loch.

>>3496646
>We're giving them a noble burial on the loch

>>3496646
>>We're giving them a noble burial on the loch.

>>3496646
>No. We're trying to keep it quiet.

>>3496646
>We're giving them a noble burial on the loch.
>No. We're trying to keep it quiet.

>>3496646
>We're giving them a noble burial on the loch.

>>3496646
>>We're giving them a noble burial on the loch.
>>No. We're trying to keep it quiet.

>>3496646
>3d10, best of four

Rolled 10, 7, 8 = 25 (3d10)

>>3498198

Rolled 6, 3, 3 = 12 (3d10)

>>3498198

Rolled 10, 2, 10 = 22 (3d10)

>>3498198

Rolled 4, 8, 9 = 21 (3d10)

>>3498198

>>3496646
“They have been prepared for a noble burial on the loch,” you explain, “previously cremated.”

“That method of burial is reserved for nobility, or those who have been specifically recognized by nobility,” the priest points out, his tone one of skepticism. “You do know that, correct?”

You nod calmly. “I do. And I am here asking you to speak when we perform the burial. What does that tell you about the situation?”

“That you are either incredibly brazen, or that you have obtained permission,” he sighs in response.

“A noble burial?” Sabrina repeats quietly as the priest ruminates. “For five of our number?”

“When a man like Sigmunt sits on a stolen throne?” you counter. “They gave their all for the sake of others. They lived and died more nobly than most nobles do.”

“And who are you, exactly?” the priest presses. “Two young women with silver eyes...”

“Don't,” you advise.

“Do you have any idea how much of a problem it would be if you were seen here?” he demands. “The Inquisition is all over me already! They're staying in town at this very moment!”

“And so you would turn your back on the faithful?” you press, shaking your head in pronounced disapproval. “I may not have been especially religious, but others of our number are. It has meaning to me because it has meaning to them.”

Right on cue, you produce the necklace you took of Greta's body, handing it to Sabrina.

“Greta's necklace...” she mutters. “She always wore this.”

“From her days at the monastery,” you nod. “The cross of the twin goddesses.”

“A monastery?” the priest repeats.

“She always said it was a gift from the monks who raised her,” Sabrina continues, still in a bit of a daze, clutching the chain tightly. “She wanted to remember them... they were killed by yōma. She always said she wanted to make sure nobody else had to meet the same fate they did, that even saving one person would make any amount of her own suffering worthwhile.”

You make pointed eye contact with the priest, who glances downward.
>1/2

File: dunscaith_castle10.jpg (3.13 MB, 3992x2992)

3.13 MB JPG

>>3498257
“... I'll do it,” the priest sighs. “So help me.”

“Thank you,” you nod. “Please excuse us. We wouldn't want to linger, seeing how the Inquisition is haunting this town at the moment.”

“Yes, that may be for the best.”

When you head back down the stairs, you quickly apologize to Sabrina. “I almost forgot I had that with me... but your reaction to it seemed to make a difference to the priest. So perhaps it worked out better that way.”

“Maybe,” Sabrina frowns, staring at the necklace still clasped in her hand.

You sigh. “Maybe you can tell me about Greta some time. She seems like someone I wish I had known better.”

“Some time I might,” she replies, slowly putting the golden chain around her neck. “But not now. I... need some time.”

“I can understand that,” you nod. “Take all the time you need.”

“You really do care about us all, don't you?”

You bump your shoulder against hers. “Of course I do. How could I not?”

With a sigh, and a faint smile, Sabrina finally relents. “I guess... I really should give you a fair chance, shouldn't I?”

She stops, turning to face you, and offers her hand. “I'm Sabrina, formerly the number Seventeen. I look forward to working with you.”

“Noel, former number Seven,” you reply, shaking her hand with a warm grin. “You're officially one of us now, Sabrina. Welcome to the fold.”

When you finally return to the castle, you're confronted by a choice:
>Find the commander, oversee modification of the wall tops.
>Find Dominica, see how she's faring with the task you gave her.
>Return to Helen, discuss long-term strategy.
>Other?

>>3498306
>>Find the commander, oversee modification of the wall tops.

>>3498306
>Find the commander, oversee modification of the wall tops.

>>3498306
>Find the commander, oversee modification of the wall tops.

>>3498306
>>Find the commander, oversee modification of the wall tops.
if you come across dominica or the commander knows her whereabouts
>>see how she's faring with the task you gave her.

>>3498306
>>Find the commander, oversee modification of the wall tops.
I want to be ready for when shit hits the fan.

>>3498306
>Find the commander, oversee modification of the wall tops.

>>3498306
>>Find the commander, oversee modification of the wall tops.

>>3498306
And another procedural vote, just 3d10 best of three.

Rolled 4, 8, 9 = 21 (3d10)

>>3500047

Rolled 5, 6, 2 = 13 (3d10)

>>3500047

Rolled 4, 7, 5 = 16 (3d10)

>>3500047

>>3500047
>Will update after dinner

>>3500047
When you part ways with Sabrina, you make a simple request. “Please be sure to inform the others that the priest will make himself available, likely around or slightly after sundown this evening.”

“How do you know that?” she asks curiously.

“Because the ceremony is typically performed at dusk,” you explain, “since it involves burning a small boat.”

“... I see,” Sabrina frowns. “A perfectly good boat?”

You nod in confirmation. “That is part of why this process was reserved for nobles, those with means and whose passing would be a significant enough event to warrant such visible acts of commemoration.”

“Then the townsfolk will probably see it...” Sabrina realizes.

You complete the thought. “And know that someone of importance is being laid to rest. Yes, that is part of the idea.”

She nods. “Thanks for explaining it... Hazaran sure has some odd traditions.”

“Odd, and very old,” you shrug. “I have to speak with the garrison commander, so I'll see you all later.”

It isn't a hard task to find him. He's just up in the tower, overlooking the south wall.

“I see you've returned,” he greets you stiffly.

“Have you made progress?” you ask.

He nods once. “We have plenty of material for concrete, and have been storing glass for eventual removal to the capital. So we have quite a bit on hand.”

“May I ask what their purpose is?”

You point down at the wall. “I want you to break the glass and set it into the wet concrete atop the walls.”

“Why should we risk climbing all over the walls like that?” he demands.

You roll your eyes, making your contempt obvious. “With the thistles and roses mostly gone the main threat to this position comes from single infiltrators mounting the wall under cover of darkness. Otherwise it's technically inassailable... no line of sight for siege guns, multiple overlapping fields of defensive fire and flanking towers, can't sap the walls.”

“You expect an attack?” he asks.

“The Inquisition is here,” you point out. “Based on previous experience I can't guarantee they won't try to sneak in and slit our throats while we sleep. So I would prefer to avoid any such conflict outright.”
>1/2

>>3500573
“And what about the hedgehogs?” he adds.

You shrug. “I wanted to take stock of all the potentially useful tools at our disposal for securing this castle. The hedgehogs would be used to close off movement beneath the bridge, and would restrict movement along the road.”

The commander shakes his head. “You're already talking like you expect an attack. Do you?”

>No, I don't. Neither the Inquisition nor Sigmunt are foolish enough to start trouble when we're staying so far out of their way.
>I expect trouble whenever we leave the castle, so I want to at least make sure it remains a safe harbor for my companions.
>The less we need to worry about regular humans starting trouble, the more we can focus on yōma, and potentially the Organization itself.
>If I didn't expect to be attacked why would I have moved my friends and comrades into a fortress I know how to defend?
>Other?

>>3500681
>I expect trouble whenever we leave the castle, so I want to at least make sure it remains a safe harbor for my companions.

>>3500681
>The less we need to worry about regular humans starting trouble, the more we can focus on yōma
Probably don't bother mentioning the Org, just in case.

>>3500573
>>I expect trouble whenever we leave the castle, so I want to at least make sure it remains a safe harbor for my companions.
>>The less we need to worry about regular humans starting trouble, the more we can focus on yōma, and potentially the Organization itself.

>>3500681
>>I expect trouble whenever we leave the castle, so I want to at least make sure it remains a safe harbor for my companions.

>>3500681
>>I expect trouble whenever we leave the castle, so I want to at least make sure it remains a safe harbor for my companions

>>3500681
>I expect trouble whenever we leave the castle, so I want to at least make sure it remains a safe harbor for my companions.

>>3500681
>If I didn't expect to be attacked why would I have moved my friends and comrades into a fortress I know how to defend?

>>3500681
>>If I didn't expect to be attacked why would I have moved my friends and comrades into a fortress I know how to defend?

>>3500681
>>If I didn't expect to be attacked why would I have moved my friends and comrades into a fortress I know how to defend?

>>3500681
“Not necessarily here,” you admit with a sigh, “but I won't pretend there's no chance that we might be attacked trying to leave or return to Scaithness over the duration of our stay. So I'd prefer it if the place we'll be calling home were completely safe.”

“So... yes and no?” the commander tries to summarize.

You shake your head. “I can't predict the future. All I know is that I want to provide my friends with as much security, both in real terms and emotional terms, as possible while they're in my home. Whether I expect a direct assault or not is ultimately irrelevant.”

“Proceed as quickly as possible, report back to me daily on your progress.”

“Yes, ma'am,” the commander replies, tone indicating that he's clearly not thrilled with his assignment despite now knowing your reasoning behind it.
>3d10, best of four

Rolled 9, 9, 4 = 22 (3d10)

>>3502749

Rolled 2, 3, 1 = 6 (3d10)

>>3502749

Rolled 5, 5, 2 = 12 (3d10)

>>3502749

Rolled 10, 8, 10 = 28 (3d10)

>>3502749

Rolled 1, 5, 8 = 14 (3d10)

>>3502749

>>3502757
If only we could roll like that consistently

>>3502749
“Oh, and commander,” you continue, as the man is just about to leave.

“Yes?”

You glare at him sternly, your words causing him to visibly recoil. “Never forget that you are my subordinate. Taking so insolent a tone with me in front of the soldiers stationed here would only serve to undermine authority and lower morale, and doing so in front of my comrades will cause them offense.”

After several seconds, he nods quietly. “Yes, ma'am. My apologies.”

“Good that we're now on the same page,” you sigh. “Now carry out my orders.”

“Right away, ma'am.”

Next you head into the keep, where Helen calls you into one of the first-floor siderooms.

“I need your expertise,” she admits. “I'm working out what I want to suggest to our comrades as our next plan, but I'm not as familiar with Hazaran as you would be.”

“Thus the map,” you nod.

Thus,” she repeats with a sigh, leaning over the table wearily, “the map.”

>What were you thinking about trying to achieve?
>I can point out the main roads and settlements, if that's what you need.
>I can point out where my family still has some influence.
>Other?

>>3502781
>>I can point out where my family still has some influence.

>>3502781
>What were you thinking about trying to achieve?

>>3502781
>>What were you thinking about trying to achieve?
Let's figure out what she wants first, then go from there.

>>3502781
>What were you thinking about trying to achieve?

>>3502781
>>What were you thinking about trying to achieve?

>>3502781
>>What were you thinking about trying to achieve?

Rolled 2, 7, 4 = 13 (3d10)

>>3502749

>>3502954
Whelp, I am somewhat late

>>3502781
>Other?
What other strongholds and forts do you think are still loyal to my family or still held by appointees from my father?

>>3502957
Better late than never fren

File: Contact_Locations.jpg (167 KB, 1375x707)

167 KB JPG

>>3502781
“The kind of help I can offer depends on what you're trying to achieve,” you sigh, settling into a chair at the map-covered table. “But I'm at your disposal.”

“I want to start planning missions,” Helen explains, “but I know too little about what is a safe operational radius.”

You find a pencil on the table, and quickly mark a series of locations. “I have contacts in these locations: Brother Vigilus in Daria, Lord Byron in Acerrae, and the military governor of Baiko, a man by the name of Noventus. I also know the lord of Tarskavaig, Annemas.”

“How well do you know them?” Helen presses, examining the area defined by those listed points.

“Vigilus and Byron are friends... Laura has been living on the latter's estate and the former helped Serana learn sign language at my request,” you tell her, before tapping Baiko with your fingertip. “Marshal Noventus is a good man, and would be loyal to me were I to make a claim on the throne. So he can be trusted.”

“And Lord Annemas?” Helen asks carefully. “In Tarskavaig?”

“He is the one I know the least,” you admit, “but I did some work in the mines below his city gratis, so not only does he know me he owes me a favor.”

Helen lightly traces a vague, shapeless outline between those cities you mentioned. “So this is the extent of where we may be able to operate?”

You shake your head, refining the southern boundary northward. “There's the Inquisition to consider down in Noroit. The town of Lanerk seems to be their seat of power.”

“Why have you marked Talje and Fumaiolo?” Helen asks.

“Transportation connections,” you explain. “If it ever becomes a consideration.”

“It shouldn't,” Helen sighs. “I don't think it would be safe to operate outside this core zone... especially to the south. And what of the north?”

“The North is Sabela's territory,” you explain. “And if any of us are harmed on her territory, she absolutely would be on the warpath. So the northern boundary of your proposed 'safe zone' is fairly secure.”

“And what of the capital?” Helen asks you, tapping a marking on the map.

>Avoid it.
>Operate out of Dean. Makes things simpler.
>Anyone but me should be fine.
>Other?

>>3503453
>>Operate out of Dean. Makes things simpler.

>>3503453

>Operate out of Dean. Makes things simpler.

>>3503453
>>Anyone but me should be fine.

>>3503453
>Avoid it.
>Operate out of Dean. Makes things simpler.

>>3503453
>>Avoid it.
>>Operate out of Dean. Makes things simpler.

>>3503453
>>Avoid it.
>>Operate out of Dean. Makes things simpler.

>>3503453
>Avoid it.
>Operate out of Dean. Makes things simpler.
>The usurper knows I survived after I killed a young with a taste got showmanship.

>>3503453
This>>3504147

>>3503453
“It's best to avoid the area, at least for now,” you sigh, rubbing the back of your neck. “Sigmunt knows I'm alive... or at least he suspects it. I was obliged to kill a particularly dramatic yōma right in front of him. We made eye contact and everything.”

Helen hangs her head in frustration and sighs. “How big a problem is this?”

“If he has any sense, it won't be one,” you reason, very notably assuming that Sigmunt is a reasonable man. “But if one of us has to operate near there, it would be best to do so using the village of Dean, under the bridge over the Water, as a base.”

“Where is that?”

You tap your index finger against the map, just outside the Capital. “You definitely could miss it if you weren't looking. Old mill town by the river.”

“Sounds lovely.”

“It is,” you agree. “Very romantic. Couples used to escape down there in the summer... at least wealthy ones did.”

“Which reminds me,” Helen muses, “I was planning to have us operate in pairs from here on. Makes it difficult to attack us. Your thoughts?”

“It's a sensible solution,” you nod with a grin. “It'll reduce the number of places we can be at once, but that's not a huge problem. Especially if we can deal with two adjacent towns at once.”

“Good,” Helen nods. “Any partners you'd consider a problem?”

You shake your head. “If anything I'd appreciate a chance to get to know Sabrina, Justina, or Lucia a bit better. You and I are fine, and you know that I'm close with Serana and Valentina.”

“I can appreciate the sentiment,” Helen admits. “I hardly know Sabrina even after having worked with her, and Lucia is a complete unknown.”

>Then how about a team outing? Come up with an event to really get to know each other?
>We should do some training. Individual strengthening, team tactics, that sort of thing.
>The Inquisition is a problem... so far as I know I'm the only one who's dealt with rifles in the field.
>Other?

>>3504746
>Then how about a team outing? Come up with an event to really get to know each other?

>>3504746
>>Then how about a team outing? Come up with an event to really get to know each other?

>>3504746
>>We should do some training. Individual strengthening, team tactics, that sort of thing.

>>3504746
>The Inquisition is a problem... so far as I know I'm the only one who's dealt with rifles in the field.

>>3504746
>Then how about a team outing? Come up with an event to really get to know each other?
>We should do some training. Individual strengthening, team tactics, that sort of thing.

>>3504746
>Then how about a team outing? Come up with an event to really get to know each other?

>>3504746
>Then how about a team outing? Come up with an event to really get to know each other?
>We should do some training. Individual strengthening, team tactics, that sort of thing.

>>3504746
>Then how about a team outing? Come up with an event to really get to know each other?

>>3504746
>>Then how about a team outing? Come up with an event to really get to know each other?
I'm down for getting an outlet for stress.

>>3504746
>Then how about a team outing? Come up with an event to really get to know each other?
>We should do some training. Individual strengthening, team tactics, that sort of thing.
Soo uhh..... Hows Laura doing? Shes still with us right?

File: glenbrittle.jpg (81 KB, 550x367)

81 KB JPG

>>3504746
“Maybe we should all do something together,” you suggest. “Like a bonding exercise.”

Helen strokes her chin thoughtfully. “I don't hate the idea. But what?”

“My father and I would come here for recreational reasons,” you muse, recalling times long passed. “Most of the things that can be done here are old traditions of Hazari culture... riding, hunting, falconry, fishing.”

“Most of us can't ride,” Helen points out.

That's true. So far as you're aware you and Alysheba are the only pair of horse and warrior who can stand to work with each other.

“So riding is out,” you sigh dramatically, “and my falcons were probably sold many years ago.”

“Again, none of us could do that in the first place,” Helen shakes her head.

“Which leaves hunting, and fishing,” you sigh. “I wonder if our fouling pieces are still here?”

“I wouldn't know.”

Come to think, even the boat is gone. So it would have to be shore fishing... though there are some beautiful spots for that on the other side of the loch, particularly a grove where there should be flowering trees in full bloom tucked into a minuscule bay. Alternately, the highlands above the valley are prime hunting grounds... you can spend all day out there and never see another soul. The “fairy pools” are a famous spot of unsurpassed natural beauty, and have a long and storied history in Hazari culture.

Now that you're thinking about it, there were some easels in the castle back in the days of the king, and you highly doubt anyone would have managed to sell them, or even would think to try it.

>Suggest a fishing trip at the flowery cove, on the far side of the loch.
>Suggest a hunt by the highland fairy pools, either with bows or rifles.
>Suggest an artistic trip, pack easels and wander the countryside together.
>Other?

>>3505370
>Suggest an artistic trip, pack easels and wander the countryside together.

>>3505370
>>Suggest an artistic trip, pack easels and wander the countryside together.

>>3505370
>>Suggest an artistic trip, pack easels and wander the countryside together.

>>3505370
>Suggest a hunt by the highland fairy pools, either with bows or rifles.
Would be really interesting to see claymores use ranged weapons for once.

>>3505370
>>Suggest an artistic trip, pack easels and wander the countryside together.
A good destresser.

>>3505370

>Suggest a fishing trip at the flowery cove, on the far side of the loch

>>3505370
>>Suggest a fishing trip at the flowery cove, on the far side of the loch.

>>3505370
>>Suggest a fishing trip at the flowery cove, on the far side of the loch.

>>3505370
>Suggest an artistic trip, pack easels and wander the countryside together.

>>3505370
“You know what nobody would have sold?” you muse, glancing at Helen. “Mostly because they're not even worth selling?”

Helen shakes her head. “If you told me you kept a circus in your basement I would have to believe you.”

You raise an eyebrow, but continue anyway. “There should be a small cache of art supplies.”

“So you want to go out and paint the scenery?” Helen asks.

You nod, now even more certain of yourself. “My fowling pieces probably aren't here anymore, and even if my fishing gear is still here there's still a chance we wouldn't catch anything. Which I find relaxing, but others might find boring.”

“Can you find this cache?” Helen asks you.

You nod. “I think so. Give me a few minutes.”
>3d10, best of three

Rolled 8, 7, 2 = 17 (3d10)

>>3506724

Rolled 10, 10, 3 = 23 (3d10)

>>3506724

Rolled 4, 1, 6 = 11 (3d10)

>>3506724

>>3506724
A few minutes later you return from the storage tower, where you found a surprisingly complete set of painting equipment. Several inkstones, easels, fine horsehair brushes, pots for rinsing water. Enough for several people to work all at once. All you need are the pigments, really.

“I found a ton of stuff,” you smile at Helen, presenting your haul. “We just need to stop in town for paints.”

“An impressive collection,” Helen admits. “Was your father an artist?”

You shrug. “He tried his best.”

“Well, we owe him for it,” Helen smiles at you. “If I'm honest, I've wanted to try my hand at this for a long while.”

“Let's split up and collect everyone,” you nod curtly.

It takes a few minutes more to track down the rest of your number, including Laura... not so much despite her condition but because of it.

“So what's happening?” Lucia inquires suspiciously.

“We're getting to know each other,” Helen replies calmly. “Painting, out in the country.”

“Painting?” Laura asks, seemingly interested. “I'd enjoy a chance to stretch my legs... especially the replacement.”

Serana glances aside, before facing you. I'LL NEED YOUR HELP.

“Of course,” you reply with an understanding nods. “It won't be a burden in the slightest, so don't even worry.”

“Where will we be going?” Justina asks.

>I was thinking we could just wander until we're all satisfied with the view.
>There's a grove on the other side of the loch that I used to fish at when I was young.
>The fairy pools of the shadow vale are nearby. They're quite famous in Hazaran.
>Other?

>>3506793

>The fairy pools of the shadow vale are nearby. They're quite famous in Hazaran.

>>3506793
>>The fairy pools of the shadow vale are nearby. They're quite famous in Hazaran.

>>3506793
>The fairy pools of the shadow vale are nearby. They're quite famous in Hazaran.

>>3506793
>>The fairy pools of the shadow vale are nearby. They're quite famous in Hazaran.

>>3506793
>>The fairy pools of the shadow vale are nearby. They're quite famous in Hazaran.

>>3506793
>The fairy pools of the shadow vale are nearby. They're quite famous in Hazaran.

>>3506793
“There's a famous scenic location near here,” you begin, only to be interrupted by Valentina.

“Do you mean the fairy pools!?”

You stare at her for a moment. “Yes, the fairy pools of the shadow vale is famous within Hazaran for their beauty. If it's us we can make it in short order., starting in the morning.”

“In the morning?” Justina asks.

You nod. “We need to be here at sundown.”

“There's going to be a priest here to lay the others to rest,” Sabrina informs the group. “Apologies, I had only just informed Helen.”
>1/2

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>>3507566
It's just after dusk when the priest arrives, crossing the drawbridge and pulling back his hood.

“I have arrived,” he announces quietly. “Are your prepared on your end?”

You nod once. “We are. Please follow me.”

You lead him to the lochside faussibrae, a lower walled gun platform that rests below the level of the keep and which is the site of the 'sea gate' that allows access to small boats. It's that capability that you are now going to use.

The others are here, not in uniform, watching as the priest makes his final preparations. Torches are already burning, and there's a heavy scent of incense on the night air. The jars which contain the remains of your fallen comrades rest in a small wooden boat below the faussibrae, which is cast off to drift.

The priest soon begins to sing in the old fashion, a wavering lyrical dirge. The words are all in old Hazari, unintelligible to the uninitiated. And so you translate as he sings the old Hazari sutra.

“We commit the bodies of our honored dead to the deep
Until judgment day and all souls are released
We pray their souls find rest in the lands of their ancestors
Until judgment day and all souls are released
We pray that their memories shall never fade from our hearts
Until judgment day and all souls are released
In the sacred name of Clare, and in the sacred name of Teresa
Until judgment day and all souls are released
We commit the bodies of our honored dead to the deep
Until judgment day and all souls are released.”

A volley of flaming arrows from the castle walls arc through the night sky, many hissing as they hit water but a few finding their mark. Soon the pitch and seasoned tinder in the boat catches, and the whole thing flares up into a burning pyre.

“Let's go,” you urge your companions quietly, Valentina already moving to head back inside.

She pauses at the door to glance over her shoulder. “It's considered bad form to see the pyre burn out.”

>Suggest that everyone turn in early, get some rest.
>Check in on Sabrina and Lucia.
>Check in with Laura, see how her new leg is treating her.
>Speak with Justina. You seem to rarely do that.
>Other?

>>3507620
>>Check in with Laura, see how her new leg is treating her.
>>Speak with Justina. You seem to rarely do that.

>>3507620
>Check in with Laura, see how her new leg is treating her.
>>Speak with Justina. You seem to rarely do that.

>>3507620
>>Speak with Justina. You seem to rarely do that.

>>3507620
>>Speak with Justina. You seem to rarely do that.

>>3507620
>>Speak with Justina. You seem to rarely do that.

>>3507620
>>Check in with Laura, see how her new leg is treating her.

>>3507620
>Speak with Justina. You seem to rarely do that.

>>3507620
>Speak with Justina. You seem to rarely do that.

>>3507620
>Check in with Laura, see how her new leg is treating her.

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>>3507620
You decide to speak with Justina, something that you rarely do without cause. Though you suppose, that in and of itself has become its own cause. You find her seated upstairs, with a small book in hand.

“Catching up?” you ask, standing nearby.

Justina glances up, then quietly gestures for you to sit across the small table from her. “Learning, actually.”

“That's the sign language book,” you realize. “How are you faring so far?”

“It's interesting,” she replies tersely. “And impressive.”

“Quite a bit of effort went into that particular work-around,” you sigh, glancing over some of the other books in the room that have mostly sat undisturbed since your father was assassinated. Eventually you settle on a book of old Hazari poetry.

Some time passes... you don't really feel like interrupting, since Justina seems content to read quietly and practice the hand gestures. But when she starts to test them out herself, you silently respond to her efforts with tacit signs of your own as you read.
>1/2

>>3508604
Eventually, Justina seems satisfied with her progress and shuts the book, setting it down on the little side table.

“You done for now?” you ask.

She nods calmly. “Thank you.”

“Some time, when you're not busy, I'd like to get to know you better,” you tell her as she starts to head to the nearby guest room.

She pauses, then looks over her shoulder. “I'd like that too.”

Interesting... she's definitely the type that's mostly quiet and reserved outside of combat, which is a type of warrior you're plenty familiar with. But that's not to say she isn't appreciative, even friendly. She just has a somewhat unenviable tendency not to show those things as clearly as others do, making her seem distant when it's simply a question of how best to engage with her.

You get the impression that had you tried to talk with her while she was reading, she would have been annoyed and things wouldn't have gone that well.

Deciding to turn in yourself, you find your way into the Royal suite where Laura and Serana already seem to be resting. Laura in particular sets aside a book of her own when you arrive, having apparently been waiting for you some time.

“May I speak with you?”

You sit on the edge of your bed. “At any time, of course. Something the matter?”

She shakes her head. “Not in the sense that you mean. I have decided, and already run it past Helen, to return to Acerrae as soon as I feel confident that I am accustomed to my new leg.”

“I did not, however, want to do so without consulting you, Noel.”

>My mind is open. Convince me with the reasoning that led you to that decision.
>I would prefer that you stay. Safety for us right now means concentrated power.
>You don't need my permission, and if you want it anyway you have it.
>Other?

>>3511359
>You don't need my permission, and if you want it you have it. I would like to know why though.

>>3511359
>My mind is open. Convince me with the reasoning that led you to that decision.

>>3511359
>You don't need my permission, and if you want it anyway you have it.

>>3511362
>>3511359

>>3511359
>You don't need my permission, and if you want it you have it. I would like to know why though.

>>3511359
>>My mind is open. Convince me with the reasoning that led you to that decision.

>>3511359
>>You don't need my permission, and if you want it anyway you have it.

>>3511359
>You don't need my permission, and if you want it anyway you have it.

>>3511359
>You don't need my permission, and if you want it you have it. I would like to know why though.

>>3511359
This>>3511362

>>3511359
>>3511362

>>3511359
>I would prefer that you stay. Safety for us right now means concentrated power.
>You don't need my permission, and if you want it anyway you have it.
Also ask Why?

>>3511359
“You don't need my permission,” you sigh, “and if having it is so important consider it given. But I would also like to hear your reasoning.”

Laura nods in understanding. “I'm not a first-line warrior anymore, not after this wound. But I can still be of some use, and I believe the best way to go about that is to return to Acerrae.”

“For what reason, precisely?”

“Because otherwise we would be too overcentralized,” Laura explains carefully. “The Organization will not send anyone to kill me given your mother's proximity, so my reduced combat effectiveness will not become a problem. And even if it does...”

You guess her mind, shutting your eyes. “It will only be a problem for yourself.”

“That's right.”

“So will you at least keep in contact?” you ask.

Laura nods. “I plan to send regular messages, and deal with relatively minor yōma incidents. Anything more serious I will send a courier, or find you personally.”

You lay back on your bed, considering the point. “My own sentiments aside everything you said makes sense. Though I still can't help but feel some apprehension over it.”

Serana and Laura are both looking at you now... you don't need to see it to know it. “Why?”

Laura's question was totally predictable.

>I think the Organization will grow increasingly aggressive towards dissenters.
>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.
>I'm a believer in force concentration. If we're all here, we're all stronger and safer.
>I just don't like it. A gut reaction, yes, but a strong one.
>Other?

>>3513486
>>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.

>>3513486
>>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.

>>3513486
>>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.

>>3513486
>I think the Organization will grow increasingly aggressive towards dissenters.
>>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.

>>3513486
>I think the Organization will grow increasingly aggressive towards dissenters.

>>3513486
>>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.

>>3513486
>>3513534
This

>>3513486
>>I think the Organization will grow increasingly aggressive towards dissenters.
>>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.

>>3513554
Right? I think the org will loose her on them.

>>3513486
>>I just don't like it. A gut reaction, yes, but a strong one.

>>3513486
>>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.
Would it be possible to send someone with her? Groups of 2 feels much safer.

>>3513926
what about the return trip?

>>3513486
>>I think the Organization will grow increasingly aggressive towards dissenters.
>>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.

>>3513486
>>I think the Organization will grow increasingly aggressive towards dissenters.
>>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.

>>3513486
>>I'm wary of Clarice. Now that we're rogue members, she has no reason not to come after us.

>>3513486
>3d10, best of four

Rolled 4, 8, 4 = 16 (3d10)

>>3515304

Rolled 9, 3, 5 = 17 (3d10)

>>3515304

Rolled 5, 2, 4 = 11 (3d10)

>>3515304

Rolled 6, 9, 7 = 22 (3d10)

>>3515304
mediocrity's back. again. fucking hell.

>>3515309
yes, but you are our shining star!

>>3515309
Its always the fourth roll that saves our bacon. I'm going to the store to get more bacon.

>>3515304
You really do intend to be supportive of Laura and her decisions, but in this case you're not sure what she's planning is wise. Partly, it's because what trust you may have once had in the Organization has disappeared in light of your recent experiences, and so you automatically expect the worst.

“I cannot help but feel that there's one risk that so far has gone unstated,” you admit with a weary sigh. “And that would be Clarice.”

Laura listens carefully, and so you continue. “My understanding is that Clarice can be quite aggressive among our own warriors even when their loyalties have not been questioned, and so my concern is that she will have no reason not to target rogue warriors on her own initiative.”

“In fact, the Organization might quietly encourage such behavior.”

Laura nods along, eventually chiming in. “And so staying together has a greater value in your estimation.”

“It factored into my assessment,” you agree. “Like I said, your choices are your own to make and I will absolutely respect that, but I hope you consider my perspective as well.”

After a few moments, Laura nods curtly. “I... may have to consider my options again. But I have time to do so before my limbs are working properly.”

You place a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “I trust that you'll make the decision you feel is best.”

As you head to your own bed, Serana catches your eye.

SHE'LL STAY.

You raise an eyebrow. YOU THINK?

She nods, repeating the gestures first then adding a few extra with a slight grin. SHE JUST DOESN'T WANT TO SHOW YOU THAT YOU CONVINCED HER SO QUICKLY.

You roll your eyes. SOUNDS ABOUT RIGHT.

Once your brief conversation is done, you turn in for the night.
>1/2

>>3516073
>3d10, best of three

Rolled 6, 7, 10 = 23 (3d10)

>>3516105
have my


dice

Rolled 2, 8, 1 = 11 (3d10)

>>3516105

Rolled 10, 9, 2 = 21 (3d10)

>>3516105

>>3516129
Welp, back to the Skynyrd concert...

>>3516105
Alright, it's 12:30 and I'm exhausted. So I'll finish this tomorrow morning.

>>3516073
I did not expect her to stay.