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"I wish to answer your questions. All of them."

You are Father Richard Anscham, leader of the Church of Mercy. The year is 605, and in your home- the country of Corcaea- the souls of mankind belong to demons.

Having traveled far from your church, far from civilization, you have reached the bottom of the ruins that cover the land. You initially sought a cure for humanity: a cure for the Catalyst. Beset by demons most foul, you were taken from the clutches of death and into the welcome embrace of Mercy. The Goddess asked you to postpone your search, professing that the only cure to the Catalyst is death. Rather than leave you to despair, She has entrusted you with a divine mission: to obtain a Relic that will heal your pain, and the pain of so many others.

Mercy has not been your only ally in your journey. The Gods are with you, Father Anscham, as well as your faithful mastiff, Ray. The two women who have saved your life travel with you as well. The elven sorceress, Celegwen, has lost much in her time with you, yet neither you nor death frightens her. She has confessed to wanting nothing more than to see how far your journey takes her, in her own quest for knowledge and power. Your other companion, the halfling, Ofelia Banks, has proven herself time and time again. She has worked tirelessly as a lethal combatant, an expert navigator, and a devout friend- despite everything you have been through. Though they both have expressed concern over the way your Gods have worked through you, neither one has wavered in following you to the ends of the Aerth.

Anguished and lost beneath a red moon, you appear to have been pulled away from the world you know and into the clutches of an archdemon. Your friends lie still at your feet; a demon that reminds you, horribly, of your Goddess stands before you. Strain wears on your body, mind, and soul. How much are you willing to endure for the ones you love? Will you see your mission through, no matter the cost? You know beyond all doubt what you believe in- but do you know who you can trust?

Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Catalyst%20Quest
Discord (Update notifications, art, music, etc.): https://discord.gg/24cmNWp
Journal (Inventory and Observations in Prayer): https://imgur.com/QxMpaOk
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>>3912347
Homicidal intent threatens to cloud your vision and judgement. A trickle of blood weaves through the vice you have on your holy symbol. Celegwen's ring nicks your skin, the gems on the interior of the band drawing forth no pain, no pleasure. You're far too distracted by the unconscious bodies of your friends at your feet, and by the demons before you.

It's all you can do to put yourself between them.

This is impossible.

There is no conceivable way you can protect your companions. Not while facing down an archdemon and five of her children. It cost the last Father of Mercy his life to take down a demon of lesser power than this, and he had the entire church behind him.

This woman- this demon- is a creature of legend. You have never contended with one so influential.

You've certainly never dealt with one so calm.

The air is warm. A faint breeze drifts past, the smell of grain making a mockery of childhood memories. There's no comfort in the association, as it only serves to unsettle you further. No stars hang in the sky, and the red moon leering over the field before you casts little light in comparison to the demon and her procession.

You can practically feel the heat and power emanating from the figure before you. The archdemon's patience is unsettling in its completeness. She neither moves nor gestures towards you, keeping her children at bay while you grit your teeth in agony.

There is no fear in your heart for yourself. You reserve your fear for your friends.

No timidness creeps into your voice, no hint of the usual insecurity or doubt. There is nothing you are more confident in than your hatred of this creature, their kind, and anyone who dares to harm those under your protection. Your voice cracks, raw in its intensity as you hold your ground.

"Not another step closer. I don't want to see you move. If your claim is true, answer me-"

You can't help but look back to your friends. They still haven't moved, their breath faint. Crimson catches in your vision, pools behind your eyes, sticking as hot and fast to your memory as it has to their hands. The image lingers after you've torn away, the heat in your voice rivaling that of the archdemon as you implore her. "What have you done?"

Gold and light remain entirely static before you. It seems that the woman is taking you seriously enough to respect your wishes, as she makes no movement. Her dripping shoulders and immaterial bosom do not heave, nor does any breath falls from her lips as she replies.

"I have done much, Father Anscham, but I have not harmed your friends. I assure you, they will be fine. This is a place of healing. If you wish, you may take the time to tend to them. I will not disturb you."

(1/2)
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>>3912349
Your brows knit with stress. It's impossible to get a read on the archdemon's intent. An intangible cascade of gold and light stares back at you without judgement. She has no motion to discern, no tension, no indication of any sudden violence. The minor demons accompanying her are as small as children, strangely clad but no doubt possessing enormous power to be so close to her company.

>A) Don't let the demons out of your sight. Your friends are still alive, and you trust that they'll be alright while you determine how much danger you're all in. This demon not only claims to know what you seek, but to be willing to answer any question you might ask. Demand answers. (Write-in what you wish to know.)

>B) Pray to Mercy for Her protection, Her healing, and Her light. Keep your guard up while you tend to your friends. You spent an unprecedented amount of time with Mercy when you last invoked Her name, but you're willing to risk whatever might happen to ensure that everyone stays safe.

>C) Pray to Spirit to deduce this demon's true intentions. The Goddess can and will, no doubt, reveal whether or not this woman is lying to you. The risk of attempting any action against a demon this powerful is extreme- but you're not willing to say another word until you know who you can trust.

>D) Write-in.
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>>3912352
>A) Don't let the demons out of your sight. Your friends are still alive, and you trust that they'll be alright while you determine how much danger you're all in. This demon not only claims to know what you seek, but to be willing to answer any question you might ask. Demand answers. (Write-in what you wish to know.)
How can you help me... why arent they awake...why are you so different from the other demons. Speak plainly or i swear to the gods i will tear this place down with all of us in it... what do you want from me?
>>
>>3912352
This
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>>3912352
Seconding everything >>3912363 except the part about tearing shit down.
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>>3912363
>>3912364
>>3912370
Locking the vote here, writing now.
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>>3912363
Sure why not
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>>3912398
"Disturb me? How do you think you can even help me? Why aren't..."

It's worth the risk to hazard another glance at your companions. Their still forms and shallow breaths drive a blade through your heart and lungs as you struggle to articulate yourself. "W-why aren't they awake-"

The archdemon does not move or gesture to interrupt you. Her words are soft, despite her interjection.

"Father, I can help you in every conceivable way. I know what you seek. I know of your pain. I know of your journey, of your suffering. In order to help you, I needed to speak with you, and you alone. ...I have granted your companions reprieve from what is, no doubt, a distressing experience. I assure you, they will rise again."

This demon's tone has every nerve in your body on fire. Nothing about this seems right. Demons are universally homicidal, violent, unable to control their impulses- yet this one is attempting to exhibit Mercy? You couldn't hold back the question even if you wanted to.

"You are nothing like any demon I have ever encountered. I don't understand. Why? What about you- what do you even want from me-"

The demon interrupts again. "My Catalyst was my empathy, Father."

What?

There's no movement towards you, no sign of a threat. The grain waves slightly in the breeze, unaffected by the heat emanating from the archdemon. You reel for a moment, but manage to stutter, "w-what?"

"I have remained the Mother of this place for many an age. I tend to my children, as I always have. You know I cannot speak about this at length- but I implore you to understand. I wish to end their suffering, much as you do. I need your help, Father Anscham. The ages wear on me, on my mind, on my home. You know this, as I know this."

With absolutely no motion, the steady gold coursing over the woman's frame remains the only indication that she is even alive. You scrutinize the minor demons around her, your pulse so high you fear you might collapse. The faint light radiating from the minor demon's faces and slight twitch of their hands tells you that they are more than metal, but little else. Their discipline is absolute.

You clench your hands, trying to steady your breath, trying to get a hold of yourself. The archdemon continues. "I understand that this is too much to ask of you now. I understand that you have been hurt. I wish to help, to heal. I will give you a week."

"What?! Wait-!"

(1/2)
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>>3912496
You take a step forward, bristling. The archdemon makes absolutely no indication of moving, yet her words are faint. "This is a place of healing- you may partake of anything here you so wish. I will give you one week, to decide if you will show me and my children that which you love. Learn of them. Meet them. Kill them if you must. I wish for you to understand, to exhibit that which you have utterly failed to do so, time and time again. Show us that which you claim to love, Father Anscham, and I will give you what you seek."

That which I love? ...Mercy?

"Wait!"

>A) Stop her at any cost. You aren't done with her. You have no idea how to leave this place, and you doubt you'd survive a fight- but you will not permit this demon to leave your sight. (Write-in anything else you may wish to know)
>A1) You don't trust her enough to stay willingly. Pray to Mercy. Ask for the archdemon's restraint. Implore her to show you at least enough compassion to stay.
>A2) Tackle her. You don't need the Gods to show how desperate you are to not be left alone in this place. Insist that you won't hurt her or her children- so long as they stay long enough to answer you.

>B) Let her go. See to your friends, and ensure that they're actually alright. You can wait. You need time.

>C) Write-in.
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>>3912502
>A) Stop her at any cost. You aren't done with her. You have no idea how to leave this place, and you doubt you'd survive a fight- but you will not permit this demon to leave your sight. (Write-in anything else you may wish to know)
Ask her what in bloody fuck her connection with Mercy is. The fact that even her underlings are familiar with Her litany is highly suspicious; failing that, ask her about what sets her apart from normal demons. They all vary in behavior, (see Malimos, who was amused by Richard enough to not attack him) but this is exceptionally weird.

She did say she wanted to answer all our questions.
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>>3912502
>A) Stop her at any cost. You aren't done with her. You have no idea how to leave this place, and you doubt you'd survive a fight- but you will not permit this demon to leave your sight. (Write-in anything else you may wish to know)
You wish to help? i still have many more questions, how am i supposed to "heal" if the weight of the unknown is a burden upon my mind. Why should i trust you? Are you doubting my devotion to the gods...to mercy... after all ive been through?
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>>3912502
first this >>3912531 then this >>3912524
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>>3912502
Do we remember Mercy's exact orders?
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>>3912502
Also ask what happened to Ostedholm for it to fall this far? What is there that the records you know do not contain?
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>>3912557
You guys have that shit memorized. You would be able to write it down or repeat it, verbatim. Likely something you'll never be able to forget.

>"Too long have you suffered."
>"Gather Our Children, Father. Though the only cure to The Catalyst is death, the afflicted themselves need not be abhorred. Gather Our Children, and find one that appears taken by their weakness. Find one that still possesses kindness in their heart.
>"Grant them Our blessing. Grant them peace, through Our symbol. You cannot do this alone. You must seek Our Relic, Father. Seek Our symbol. Deep, deeper still within the lands lies an answer to your pain. We entrust you with this mission- this most Holy mission- to obtain not the cure to the Catalyst, but the cure to your pain. The cure to the pain of so many others. Seek Our Relic. Do this, and go forth with Our blessing."
>"You are never truly alone, Father."
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>>3912563
Looks like we found the kind one she was talking about but i have no fucking clue how we can show her out blessing when she is more powerful than us, i say we just play along and try to take a brake like mercy wanted, after all if she wanted us dead we wouldve been dead.
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>>3912524
>>3912531
>>3912556
>>3912557
>>3912562
>>3912567
Going to incorporate all of this, great shit guys. Locking the vote, writing now.
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>>3912574
Mercy's visit, Her mission, Her embrace- it all flickers through your mind rapidly as you take another step forward, and another. Blood slicks against your palm as your grasp on Her symbol crushes against your scarred and worn skin. You can feel your panic tilting over into something worse. The crushing fear of what this demon wants to do with you is unbearable.

I can't make a deal with a demon.
I can't ignore Her words-
I can't leave my friends here to die.
She could take them hostage. They could kill me here and now. I have to buy us time.
I need answers.

Your scream is hoarse, raw with worry and strain.

"Wait!!"

Immediately, a hand comes to your lips as you try to take back the outburst. The climax of your panic has you even more terrified than before.

"Mercy, forgive me. ...wait. Please. I- I'll listen. I'll talk. Just, please, don't go. You said you wished to help me- I still have so many questions-"

The form of the archdemon remains material, her voice taking on its luster once again as she replies. "Very well. What is it you wish to know?"

"The weight of the unknown, it's- it's a terrible burden. I can't possibly heal anyone like this. How am I supposed to, given this-"

You look around, so wide-eyed that the sage of your irises are fully exposed. The low grade headache behind your temples, the rapid beat of your heart, the red moon overhead- it's all impossibly close. The bodies of your friends behind you serve as another constant reminder of how vulnerable you all are.

Your voice comes out so on-edge that you doubt anyone could question your sincerity. You question hers, instead. "Why should I trust you?"

"I do not expect you to- hence, why I was quick to leave. You do not trust me or my kind, Father- much as we are reluctant to trust yours. I cannot hope to undo lifetimes of mistrust in a single conversation. I can only hope to make the most of the time that is left to me."

A long silence passes between you two. Anger catches in your throat, drowning out reason. It's impossible to not take offense to this creature after everything she's implied. The longer you think about it, the more uncomfortable you are. You've given everything in the name of the Gods. "Are you doubting my devotion? After everything I've been through- do you seriously question my connection to the Gods? To Mercy?"

"Yes."

A disgusted sound emerges despite your best efforts to contain it. You feel physically sick. The stress of dealing with this archdemon is making it unbelievably difficult to show any sort of restraint. Under normal circumstances, you could easily deal with someone questioning your faith. You know beyond any shadow of a doubt that you are unwavering in your conviction- but this demon has you questioning everything. Your accusations are as ugly as you feel, but you can't stop yourself.

(1/3)
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>>3912693
"What connection, then, do you claim to have to Her? The fact that your children are familiar with Her litanies is questionable, at best- and your forms are a blatant mockery of Her light. What do you presume to know? What are you? Speak, demon. Tell me as best as you're able. I know you can't even utter the name of Mercy."

"I've already attempted to tell you, Father. I was once a Mother of..."

Righteous indignation further discolors the brewing storm of emotion in you as you finish her sentence. "Mercy."

"Yes. You, no doubt, are familiar by now with our home. I served this place, and-"

Though no breath rises from her lungs, it almost seems as if the archdemon's words catch in her throat. Her struggle is deeply satisfying, and you let her butcher her words to accommodate her meaning.

"...my- children. I fell, after witnessing the fall of our- home, my people. I could not bear to endure their suffering any longer. Many of them are still here, contained to the best of my ability, as I've-"

A terrible smirk crosses your face as you can't help but interject, "prayed?"

"...yes. For a time when we could heal, could learn, could leave this place. I suspect the world has only grown darker in the ages that have passed, without hope, without light. I have taken this form... no doubt as a reflection of what I felt most."

You stare at her, the smirk long gone already. This woman is raising more questions than she's answering. "What happened to Ostedholm for it to fall this far? I have learned so much of this place, but many of the records had omissions... what do you know of the information they did not contain?"

The archdemon's voice remains soft and unwavering, but a slight darkness creeps into her words as she speaks. "I strayed too close to the light, Father. Many of us did. They could not strike everything from the records before we were contained, and destroyed. There are so few of us left. ...so much was lost."

Her voice resumes its usual lightness. There's still absolutely no movement from any of the demons as the woman- the fallen Mother of Mercy- finishes speaking. "I suspect you must still have questions. If you swear to me to not bring me or my children any harm, I will remain here, for a time. It is incredibly taxing for me to remain in this form, but I swore to answer you. I can leave my children here as well, to provide food and healing for you all. ...you did not accept my gift previously, but I assure you, I mean you no harm. I wish to help."

(Overestimated, options in next post)
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>>3912702
>A) You're at a loss for words. Nod noncommittally, and permit the archdemon to leave her minor demons with you all.

>B) You still have questions- this is the first time you've ever gotten anything in the way of answers since you entered this Gods-forsaken place. (Write-in anything else you need answers to.)

>C) Tell the archdemon you've heard enough, and insist that she and her children leave you all alone. You'll take her time to think on what she's said. You still have no idea what to make any of this.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3912705
>>B) You still have questions- this is the first time you've ever gotten anything in the way of answers since you entered this Gods-forsaken place. (Write-in anything else you need answers to.)
-So what caused the Catalyst? Is it true that death is the only cure?
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>>3912702
>>B) You still have questions- this is the first time you've ever gotten anything in the way of answers since you entered this Gods-forsaken place. (Write-in anything else you need answers to.)
You said you know of my mission, how did you come by that knowledge? It is ironic to hear of failure in devotion from someone like...you. Mercy has blessed me with her light, yet she has abandoned you and your children, maybe it is you who isnt worthy, maybe it is you who should prove herself. i came too close to the light many times, i counted. yet here i stand in her light not disgraced as you. Even so, what would you have me do?
>>
>>3912705
Seconding both >>3912718 and >>3912736 if possible.

The information she's given so far is very interesting, by the way.
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>>3912736
why not, sure , not like she can kill us if angry :^)
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>>3912786
if she wanted to she would, its clear she is chasing another goal here that requires us to be alive.
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>>3912718
>>3912736
>>3912754
>>3912786
>>3912791
Duly noting all of this, locking the vote to write.
>>
>>3912754
Oh and thanks man, glad you're enjoying it! Appreciate your guys patience in between updates here, trying to give everyone a solid opportunity to vote and stuff.
>>
>>3912811
The fear of this demon killing you and your friends outright stills the brewing turmoil in you for the briefest of moments. There's something that you came down to the ruins for. Your obsession- the very thing that has ruined the life of this demon and countless others.

"Don't go. Not yet. I need to know. How exactly- what caused your Catalyst?"

The steady drip of gold onto the soil beneath your feet is the only reply for several long moments. You've been so stressed, you hadn't even realized that there is no stone at this level of the ruins. Your eyes glance along the field, the hundreds of doors stretching out into the horizon, the gray walls climbing up towards the impossible abyss.

"Emotion," the archdemon finally replies. "It was my emotion. I fell too deeply into myself, Father. I professed to- serve, but I did not live up to the tenets of my station. I did not uphold my vows. I did not show restraint. I felt for my children, I felt for our home. I could not withhold all of the love in my heart, and it consumed me. It utterly destroyed us all."

The same ugliness is back in your throat, the urge to let out your spite, your insecurity, your utter lack of self-worth. For this demon to have questioned the one thing that you value about yourself is more than you can stand.

You lash out. "It's ironic. ...to hear of failure in devotion, from a former Mother of the Church."

You know how badly your words must sting her, but the archdemon shows no sign of responding. You dig deeper, desperate to assert yourself in this situation. The threat of these demons is intense, and your prolonged helplessness is more than you can stand. You want a foothold- anything that might help you not feel so weak.

"Mercy has blessed me with her light, yet, she has abandoned you and your children."

The scathing remark actually makes the archdemon recoil. The motion would be imperceptible, if you weren't staring her down. Her radiance catches on the bags under your eyes, the pockets of emaciated skin drawn taught over your prominent cheekbones. The pockmarks and old scars scarcely move, as you mutter, "maybe it is you who isn't worthy. Maybe- it is you who should prove herself. I've come close to the Catalyst many, many times. I remember each one vividly, yet here I stand..."

Your voice drops even lower, glaring at the archdemon. "...not as disgraced as you."

Something in the archdemon stirs. You can't tell if it's pain, or a threat, but it stills your voice for a moment.

There's a pull, deep in the pit of your stomach.

This is still a demon. She could kill us all at any moment.
What am I doing?

With a hard swallow, you try to quell the nausea, your racing heart, the frothing anger and the lifetime of strain to even your voice.

Take a deep breath.

To live is to serve. To serve is to be Merciful.

(1/2)
>>
>>3912899
"You said that you knew of my mission. How did you come by that knowledge?"

The archdemon's voice is still soft, despite your cutting remarks. You know she must be hurt, but she isn't showing it as she levelly replies, "Malimos. His webs extend through the ruins, as I know you are aware. Our children have brought me word of your journey, your travels, and your mission- though I am aware that it has changed in your time here."

"You knew of my search- for the cure...?"

"Yes."

A sudden desperation seizes you. You can't stop yourself. "You must tell me. Is it true? Is death the only cure?"

"I do not know."

You invoke Her name rather than spill the myriad curses that rise to your lips. "Mercy...!"

"I understand how important this must be to you, but in all my many years, none of my children wished to change form. I could not attempt to bring them away from the Catalyst, even if they wished for me to try."

"What...?"

"I have conducted my own research, Father. I have a tremendous gift, from my service in life- something that I know you seek. I cannot give it willingly, but..."

The same urgency spills over, your anger rapidly giving way to the same desperation. "...what? What- what would you have me do?"

"It is as I said before. Speak with my children. Meet them. Show them..."

"...Mercy."

"Yes. See if you can sway their hearts. Their minds. Their forms. I suspect there may be a way to reverse what has transpired here. If nothing else- I wish to help you, to pass on this gift before I die. I know you wish to prove yourself, Father. I know you have suffered. ...I would see to it that you continue my work, as you already sought to do of your own volition."

Your mind races, as you struggle to internalize the implications of all of this. The demon's voice picks up, painfully radiant.

"Would you permit me to move, to awaken your friends, and grant you rest? I can grant further entry to my children's chambers, if you would see to them. ...though I cannot hope for them to show you the same- courtesy that I have. I suspect that you can contend with the mildest of them without issue."

"What other choice do I have?"

"You can certainly remain here, until the week is out. The new moon will come, and with it, the end... of our discussion. I will not wait here indefinitely. My form will not persist much longer. I wish to answer your questions, but I cannot waste my time."

For the briefest of moments, the light in her voice is utterly searing, "I may be disgraced, but I will not be trifled with."

The archdemon's voice softens again, the light dimming. "I understand the difficulty of your position, Father. You are not the first to suffer in this way. I implore you to exhibit that which you love. Please."

(Options in next post)
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>>3912911
>A) Permit the demon to move. Stay on your guard, and stay right beside your friends. Let her waken them, and if she doesn't keep her word...
>A1) Invoke Mercy, to protect everyone to the best of Her ability.
>A2) Pray to Vengeance, to strike down the Archdemon with everything you have.

>B) Let her leave. She said that your friends were alright, and you have your own means of healing. Let her go, keep the doors closed, and tend to your companions. You'll figure out a way to move forward on your own time.

>C) You still have questions. Fuck, you have so many questions. It feels like it's been months since you got a straight answer out of someone. (Keep the write-ins coming if you still need answers.)

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3912914
>>A) Permit the demon to move. Stay on your guard, and stay right beside your friends. Let her waken them, and if she doesn't keep her word...
>>A1) Invoke Mercy, to protect everyone to the best of Her ability.
>>
>>3912914
>>C) You still have questions. Fuck, you have so many questions. It feels like it's been months since you got a straight answer out of someone. (Keep the write-ins coming if you still need answers.)
There is a relic of mercy here , you as a mother should know where it is, please guide us to it, and i will see to your children
>>
Going to get some coffee and then I'll close the vote, leaving it open for another 10 minutes or so but I'd like to keep the ball rolling for a bit longer tonight.
>>
>>3912918
>>3912928
Coffee acquired. Going to combine these, locking the vote and writing now.
>>
>>3912984
You gesture with your head, hands still around your holy symbol. You're beginning to wonder if you could pry your palm away from the gold if you tried. Your voice is level, no doubt left in your mind as you state, "There is a relic of Mercy here. You, as a Mother, should know where it is."

The confidence wavers slightly through your desperation. "Please, guide us to it... and I will see to your children."

It seems as if the archdemon was waiting for you to finish before moving. She merely raises a limb, revealing the rotten bone and gold that protrudes through her veil of light. Though you're far from squeamish, you recoil slightly at the ancient form and its mockery of Mercy's gift.

With an almost imperceptible wave of her fingers, you feel a wave of heat course past you and into your companions. Simultaneously, they all begin to stir. You can't help yourself, and immediately go to Ray's side as breath fills his lungs. It looks as though everyone is still unconscious, but the life seems to come back into them. There is a faint glow around all of their forms that deeply unsettles you, but the blood and wounds around their bodies seems to abate through the light.

You dare to glance back up at the archdemon. Her head is tilted back. You recognize the ecstasy when you see it.

The sight makes your stomach turn. Your grip on Mercy's symbol tries to tighten further, but the metal is already dug deep into your skin. Instead you hold the pendant against your chest, demanding, "stop it. ...that's enough. Keep your word, demon. The relic-"

A sigh escapes from the archdemon, her form and the light around your friends relaxing. Your eyes dart between them, bracing for some sort of trap.

"Don't try anything. You know I won't hesitate-"

The archdemon sounds as if she's smiling as she sighs again. She brings a hand to her chest as well.

Your heart drops.

She plunges a hand deep into her own chest, the light and gold eclipsing her rotten form.

You don't hesitate. There's no need to invoke Mercy's name for Her to hear your plea, but you want the archdemon to hear. You want her to know what it means to call upon Her name.

"My restraint is my peace, but my peace shall be broken-"

The bone and decay emerges from the archdemon's bosom. You know the light of whatever she's produced would absolutely have blinded you, were it not for Her protection. You pull one hand away from her symbol regardless, shielding your eyes and crying out.

"Goddess of compassion! Mother of relief! Come unto me! Grant me your protection-!"

The light of the Goddess fills your vision, eclipsing that of the archdemon's and whatever she holds. You lower your hands, looking out with abject radiance.

"Mercy."

(1/2)
>>
>>3913044
The archdemon is holding forth an item in her outstretched hands, searing with such light that it is impossible to look upon it with mortal eyes. In her palms lies a locket of two hands, pressed together in prayer. Each drop of gold is immaculate, as it congeals forth from the archdemon's body, nestling perfectly in between her own intertwined fingers. There is no chain, no indication of this item ever being worn. It is untarnished and so utterly flawless that you do not doubt it's origin or purpose for a second.

She has Mercy's relic.

You take a knee, and keep your hand to your holy symbol, afraid your heart may stop. It's beating so quickly you suspect you might pass out. It's all you can do to utter your thanks to the Goddess, your head light, every beat in your chest skipping. You can feel it against your own palm, against your quickened breath, against Her symbol, against the light and gold.

"The Gods are Merciful."

The archdemon looks to you, slowly. "I have shown you this under the pretense that you will honor your word. You will see to my children."

It's hard to breathe. It's harder to see. Your friends are breathing behind you, and you know they will likely waken again soon- but you don't want to waste a second. This is Her symbol. Her Relic. This is the reason you've suffered, the reason you've endured.

>A) Don't let the relic out of your sight. You are sworn to uphold your word, to never break an oath you've made to another- but you can't permit this. Attack the archdemon, and her children. Maintain your connection to Mercy, and take it by force. You can't risk half-measures here.
>A1) Invoke Flesh. You'll need His strength.
>A2) Invoke Spirit. To know your enemy is to conquer them.
>A3) Invoke Agriculture. You're surrounded by grain- let this demon's lair consume her.
>A4) Invoke Vengeance. He may be at odds with Mercy, but Her compassion will certainly help you endure the strain of channeling Him.

>B) Keep your word. It is your bond, and you fear deeply for your ability to maintain your connection to the Goddess while committing sacrilege. What's more, you're confident that fighting these demons would mean certain death. You may have an unprecedented connection to the Gods, but you know when you're outnumbered. Permit the archdemon to put away the relic, and uphold her tenets. See to this demon's children, knowing that she is beholden to help you in turn.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3913050
>>B) Keep your word. It is your bond, and you fear deeply for your ability to maintain your connection to the Goddess while committing sacrilege. What's more, you're confident that fighting these demons would mean certain death. You may have an unprecedented connection to the Gods, but you know when you're outnumbered. Permit the archdemon to put away the relic, and uphold her tenets. See to this demon's children, knowing that she is beholden to help you in turn.
>>
Going to leave this open for a bit, got to make dinner and do some homework. I'll get in at least one more update tonight though. Thanks for the awesome write-ins and reception so far guys.
>>
>>3913050
>B) Keep your word. It is your bond, and you fear deeply for your ability to maintain your connection to the Goddess while committing sacrilege. What's more, you're confident that fighting these demons would mean certain death. You may have an unprecedented connection to the Gods, but you know when you're outnumbered. Permit the archdemon to put away the relic, and uphold her tenets. See to this demon's children, knowing that she is beholden to help you in turn.
>>
>>3913050
>B) Keep your word. It is your bond, and you fear deeply for your ability to maintain your connection to the Goddess while committing sacrilege. What's more, you're confident that fighting these demons would mean certain death. You may have an unprecedented connection to the Gods, but you know when you're outnumbered. Permit the archdemon to put away the relic, and uphold her tenets. See to this demon's children, knowing that she is beholden to help you in turn.
>>
>>3913054
>>3913192
>>3913285
Back, looks unanimous! Locking the vote now. Might take a bit longer than usual as I've got a pretty wicked head cold, but I'll be writing.
>>
>>3913293
Mercy courses through you, the Goddess of compassion leaning hard into every inch of your frame. Your pulse skyrockets, pleasure wrapping itself around the searing heat and light. Despite your fear- or perhaps because of it- your forgiveness for this demon's transgressions falls from you like so much rain. There is no blood. Gold drips from your lips, reunited as you are with the Goddess. Looking upon Her works, your voice is scarcely your own, intermingling with Her light as your prayer ends.

"We will. You have Our word."

The archdemon pulls her hands back, placing the Relic back into her form, the gold blending with her rotten flesh, soaking into her radiance. It seems dark, compared to your own.

"Father. ...you have abused Her gifts, have you not?"

You can scarcely answer, your vision clouding over with light. The sensation of the Goddess wrapping Herself around you, intertwining with your body, your soul, is almost more than you can stand. You asked for Her protection. She clearly does not intend to leave you, faced with such a formidable enemy.

The archdemon takes a step forward. You have no fear in your heart as she leans forward, extending her hands in the same gesture you've seen the clergy use so many times before.

"I know you cannot speak. Take as much of the- blessing- as you need. I know you have not asked," she pauses, pulling her hands back, and gesturing to the minor demons around her. "...but you may call me Idonea, if you wish. I do not presume to carry the title of "Mother" for much longer, but these are my daughters: Philomene, Delara, Esme, Freya, and- you have already met Aurelius."

Her words are faint through the all-consuming light and ecstasy of Mercy's blessing. The archdemon cannot come near you- Her radiance is blinding in its intensity. Idonea takes a step back, seeming to know her place, though her golden face seems to linger on you.

Is it jealousy?

"I will return. If you must seek my aid, my daughters will know how to find me. Do not abuse my kindness, Father. Do not abuse them. I wish to heal, to help, but even my patience knows its limits. You... have clearly not shown restraint."

It's fear, isn't it?

The archdemon takes another step back, this time waving her hand in a much broader motion. Three of the doors swing open on the outskirts of your vision. Though the night is dark, you can see the entire field with the utmost clarity through Her light. Your breath hitches, the slightest use of Her blessing sending another wave of elation through you.

(1/2)
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>>3913373
Idonea seems revolted, turning away from you with a sound that you don't particularly care for. You'd like to defend yourself, but she speaks over the rising gasp in your throat, clearly bothered. "Once you have finished, you may see to my children. Beyond here lies the chambers of Yech, Beltoro, and Remigius. You have met them all already in some capacity. Please treat them with the same tenets you claim to have upheld with all of your children. ...I cannot promise they will show you the same courtesy that I have, though they will certainly try."

Through the haze of elation, nerves aflame, you struggle to suppress the sounds that Mercy is eliciting from you. A reply entirely escapes you, despite all of your brewing questions. You knew that something wasn't quite right since you last invoked Her, but the reaction you're having to Her blessing is more than you can stand. It's difficult to even think.

What you presume to be Idonea's face remains turned away from you, and the rest of her turns to walk away. She places a hand to the back of Freya's golden hair, turning the minor demon's face away as well. She seems to be the youngest. You don't stop the archdemon. Her voice grows faint, as her light fades completely. Her words to you hang in the air behind her, as she fades completely out of even Mercy's sight.

"...do not disappoint me further, Father."

There's a lingering sensation of heat and gold as the archdemon completely vanishes, back into the field.

You gasp, falling forward onto your hands and knees. Relaxing even slightly from the tension of being near the archdemon sends another wave of relief into you- you can scarcely stand it.

The forms of your friends stir almost the moment that Idonea fades from view. Her children are still standing a fair distance away, keeping their eyes off of you in a welcome display of Mercy. You're still deeply concerned for your friends. There's still blood streaked over their hands, over Ray's teeth, and they didn't seem to be breathing properly for some time.

Another gasp rises to your lips as you turn to face them. The Goddess is with you, in you, on you- your right hand is completely caked in blood, yet the gash from clutching onto your holy symbol slowly mends itself through Her. The opposite hand clutches onto the soil, desperate for something to hold onto through the intensity of it. You can hardly breathe, gold flowing from your lips, your hands, into the soil around you.

(Options in next post)
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>>3913380
>A) Try and release Mercy. No matter how much healing your friends need, this is too much. You're not ashamed- and you're sure that they'd understand- but you're scared of losing yourself. If you can't, they'll have to help you out of it.

>B) Release Mercy, even if you have to do something a little desperate. She will certainly forgive a minor transgression- but you need to get a hold of yourself. You'd rather have a few demons see you sin than to have your friends see you like this.
>B1) Swear a little. Your word is your bond- but a few expletives probably won't hurt. (Write-in something crass if you really want.)
>B2) Hurt yourself. You're sworn to protect, to heal- but there's nothing explicit in her tenets about self-harm. (You've done plenty worse and seemed to enjoy it, haven't you?)

>C) Stay with Mercy, and completely heal your friends. Let them see you, show them that you can use Her gifts for something more than merely surviving. Try to release Her once you're sure they're alright. It will no doubt be harder, but it's far more important to you that they're safe than to preserve your own sanity.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3913383
>C) Stay with Mercy, and completely heal your friends. Let them see you, show them that you can use Her gifts for something more than merely surviving. Try to release Her once you're sure they're alright. It will no doubt be harder, but it's far more important to you that they're safe than to preserve your own sanity.
>C-Extra) Cling to the idea of freedom and the future to preserve your own sanity. Remind yourself that while with the Relic right here, you still need to get your friends out of the Aerth back to the surface. Supplies are low as it is, and partially healing them might still cause issues down the line, ones they cannot heal easily on their own power alone. Losing sight of the bigger picture is foolishness. Simply achieving the Relic right now will not end your mission. You MUST survive to see the Merciful gold of true sunlight again alive, sane, and intact - with your friends by your side, much the same. Everything is going to be all right.
>>
>>3913383
>>A) Try and release Mercy. No matter how much healing your friends need, this is too much. You're not ashamed- and you're sure that they'd understand- but you're scared of losing yourself. If you can't, they'll have to help you out of it.
>>
>>3913383
>>A) Try and release Mercy. No matter how much healing your friends need, this is too much. You're not ashamed- and you're sure that they'd understand- but you're scared of losing yourself. If you can't, they'll have to help you out of it.
>>
>>3913452
>>3913489
>>3913495
Going to head off to bed soon, leaving this open until the morning. You guys seem to be at odds here, I'll leave you all to work it out until the morning. If there isn't a consensus the majority will determine your decision.

As always, I'll try to update 1-2 times at least each around the afternoon/evening EST. Thanks again for reading and voting everyone! I'll be back soon.
>>
>>3913489
>>3913495
Am I ignoring something here, guys? Why release Mercy again?
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>>3913501
why keep her in the first place? We are clearly an asset to this demon and she has a logical reason for keeping us safe, she said the gang is fine, the blood isnt probably even theirs. Keeping our favor with mercy is more important for the trip back when stuff is actually trying to wreck our shit. This is the last hurdle before we can gtfo of this shitty ruins, we arent going to have a way to resupply, abusing mercy like this is wasteful and pushes richard even closer to the edge.
>>
>>3913504
Alright then. I'm convinced.

>>3913383
Changing my vote from >>3913452 to
>A) Try and release Mercy. No matter how much healing your friends need, this is too much. You're not ashamed- and you're sure that they'd understand- but you're scared of losing yourself. If you can't, they'll have to help you out of it.
>>
>>3913489
>>3913495
>>3913501
>>3913504
>>3913509
All duly noted, going to incorporate all of this. Locking the vote, writing now.
>>
>>3913828
Through the overwhelming relief, you hear a rush behind you. A long cloak being tossed aside, a wooden staff digging into the soil, the whines and whimpers of a dog who fears for your life.

In moments, your friends are on their feet and right beside you. You remain on your hands and knees, clutching onto the Aerth, utterly taken by Mercy. The voices of your companions is filtered through a haze of euphoria and building tension. The gold is blinding.

"Richard?! What's wrong with- are you okay?! Stay back- we got this-"

"Ofelia, stay your hand. They do not appear to be attacking. Something has happened. ...Father? Father, please-"

Celegwen and Ofelia both kneel down beside you. It's apparent that they could not see the gold pouring from your hands and lips at a distance, as they both recoil the moment they get closer. Ray's whining is constant, though he's right beside you.

You can't speak to reassure them. You can scarcely see or hear anything, every nerve alight with Mercy.

You try and release Her.

Typically, the Gods are eager to remove themselves from your frame. It always feels so fleeting- their intangible blessing pouring out of you like so much water from your broken vessel.

Mercy does not want to leave you.

Another surge of pleasure threatens to drop you even from your knees. You clutch harder into the soil, letting her gold pool under your palms. Your wound is completely healed, the breath back in your lungs, the vision of Her relic seared into your memory- but you don't want this.

It's getting harder to think.

"M-Mercy..."

Some time passes. It's hard to say.

Ray's soft and reassuring form scampers over. Through the gold you catch his ears down, his tail behind him, as he growls at what must be the minor demons ahead of you all. He does not attack. The mastiff nudges himself against you, unafraid, and lays down to better support you as you kneel in the dirt.

You're afraid to touch him. You can't get your limbs to cooperate, seized as they are with Mercy. Everything is so soft, the edges of your mind growing intangible. You can't quite repress your breath, a gasp, clutching onto the ground beneath you, trying to find something solid, something real. Ray leans harder into you, almost as if to reassure you that you're still with him.

"Snap out of it, Richard. It's okay- come on. We're right here. You don't gotta do this."

"Father, if you can speak- tell me what we need to do. Do not leave us. Please."

We have to get them out of here. We have to make it back to the surface.

(1/2)
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>>3913900
check your brackets
[i]and[/i]
>>
>>3913901
Fuck, thank you. Just a moment, will fix this right up.
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>>3913904
>>A) Tell your friends plainly what's happened, including how badly you abused Mercy. Don't mince words, and reassure them that you are somewhere safe. Ask them what they saw as well- you were entirely incapable of discerning your surroundings since your last prayer. Clean up Ray as best as you can, and command him to rest.
>>
>>3913895
It's impossible to avoid curling into yourself, hit hard with another swell of gratification. Restricting the moan rising to your throat is the best you can do, acutely aware of the stares boring into you from your friends. The light of Mercy sears into you, hotter than the sun- you want to lean into it, to stay with her. Every inch of you is begging to stay with the relief, to nurture, to heal. You know that She loves you, that She wants you, that She needs your vessel- that She wants you to be free of your pain.

We have so many more hurdles to face. This is so wasteful- this isn't right.

We've abused Her.

You can't suppress the moan that rises to your lips. Though it is muffled by the gold dripping forth, you recoil further, completely ashamed of yourself.

"...M-Mercy...!"

"Father-"

"Richard?"

Reaching the Relic is not the end of Our mission.

"...nnn..."

We must survive.

The light is utterly blinding before you. It reminds you of something you haven't seen in weeks, and fear you'll never see again.

...to see the Merciful gold of TRUE sunlight again...

It's helping. The thought seizes you, turning your eyes skyward. The red moon lances the gold in your irises, giving you a glimpse of something other than Mercy for a moment.

To be alive...

The relief begins to fade. You manage to still the moans and gasps pouring from you, drawing into yourself, clutching onto your robes.

To be sane- intact-

You can feel the fear on Ofelia and Celegwen, but knowing that they haven't left you- that Ray is right by your side- fills you with hope.

With my friends by my side, much the same...

You cough, hard, gold spilling forth from your heart and mouth onto the floor below you. Mercy parts from your frame, leaving your body ravaged with tremor. The heat abates, though the warm air around you keeps the chill from becoming overwhelming. There is darkness, and demons, and your companions right beside you.

Your words surprise you as the coughing subsides. You look to your friends, the gold still lancing the green for the briefest of moments. "Everything is going to be alright."

The pounce from Ofelia nearly knocks you over as she takes you into a hug. You catch a glimpse of her freckles and the blood still on her hands as she embraces you. Her voice cracks slightly from the strain, and you don't miss her glancing repeatedly towards the minor demons standing across from you all.

"You fucking lunatic-!"

Ray immediately begins to snarl and bark at the halfling. Sheepishly, she pulls away. Worry is wrought all over her face. You glance away as you get back to your knees, shaking terribly.

"Okay, okay- easy. Richard, the fuck was that for- where are we-"

(2/3)
>>
>>3913911
Celegwen looks to you with an equal measure of worry. It's a bit harder to tell the emotion on her face, but you've seen it often enough by now to recognize it. She isn't saying anything, but looking around with enormous concern at your surroundings. Her eyes settling on the minor demons across from you all as well.

As usual, Ray cannot demand any explanations, nor does he seem interested in anything but you. His whimpering is incessant, his tail and ears down, blood congealed on the corners of his teeth. He seems to be hurt- but you have no idea where your equipment is, and you are not about to call upon Mercy again.

>A) Tell your friends plainly what's happened, including how badly you abused Mercy. Don't mince words, and reassure them that you are somewhere safe. Ask them what they saw as well- you were entirely incapable of discerning your surroundings since your last prayer. Clean up Ray as best as you can, and command him to rest.

>B) Tell your friends to stay on their guard. Try to not get too into the details. Inform them that you've found the relic, but that you can't trust the archdemon and would appreciate if they do the same. See if they can search the area with you before setting out. Maybe you can find your things.

>C) Don't say anything, and try to gather yourself for a moment. You're still shaking pretty badly, and could use a moment to gather your thoughts. You've never experienced a blessing from the Gods in such a way, and can feel the strain on your body and mind even after Mercy has left you. You have to look after yourself.

>D) Write-in.
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>>3913913
>A) Tell your friends plainly what's happened, including how badly you abused Mercy. Don't mince words, and reassure them that you are somewhere safe. Ask them what they saw as well- you were entirely incapable of discerning your surroundings since your last prayer. Clean up Ray as best as you can, and command him to rest.
>>
>>3913913
>A) Tell your friends plainly what's happened, including how badly you abused Mercy. Don't mince words, and reassure them that you are somewhere safe. Ask them what they saw as well- you were entirely incapable of discerning your surroundings since your last prayer. Clean up Ray as best as you can, and command him to rest.
Get our bearings straight first.
>>
Petition to boycott prayer to mercy because she is starting to act like a mind breaker bitch and we could use some space.
>>
Got a lot of homework to do today, vote will be open until I get back. Will get at least 1-2 more updates out before tonight though.

>>3913947
Noted
>>
>>3913913
>>A) Tell your friends plainly what's happened, including how badly you abused Mercy. Don't mince words, and reassure them that you are somewhere safe. Ask them what they saw as well- you were entirely incapable of discerning your surroundings since your last prayer. Clean up Ray as best as you can, and command him to rest.
>>
>>3913947
She's not Spirit or Agriculture shit. Yet. I hope not, because I'm not sure who we should even go for, if anyone at all. Mercy is only for the demigod race endgame, but I cannot deny both Ofelia and Gwen have their strong points. Time is an instant NO WAY FAG, 100%
>>
>>3913915
>>3913916
>>3913947
>>3914315
>>3914428
Taking a quick break from the homework slog, let's knock this out. Locking the vote and writing now.
>>
>>3914709
Back on your knees, you don't even bother standing upright. Your entire body is shaking, still ravaged from the prayer to Mercy. There is no pain- you're simply overwhelmed from the intensity of Her working through you. The gentle breeze on the air sends another chill down your spine. The faint scent of the harvest drifting across the wind, the sound of each branch swaying, the faint light of the moon overhead all lets you fall into a reverie.

I'm losing myself. ...but who else can I rely on? Agriculture destroys my body each time I call upon Her. Spirit wears on my mind, my soul. I'm so scared of Time, I have never even met the Mother of Her church...
I have to trust in Mercy. I love Her so dearly- I need Her.

Taking your holy symbol again, you close your eyes. "Mercy-"

There's a hand on your shoulder. You dart your eyes up, wide with love and relief. Celegwen is looking down at you with extreme concern. She picks up your free hand- the one that isn't clutching onto your holy symbol- and wraps it in her own.

Dried and caked blood from her palms grates against your sensitive skin, sending another chill up your arm.

Her voice is methodical and light as air, but you can recognize the worry in her words. "Father. Please. Stay with us. Where are we? What has transpired?"

There's little use disguising your own concern as you try to ground yourself, to gather your thoughts. You look up, beyond the red moon. Stone and an impossible sky leers overhead, seeming to be too close to exist. It felt like you fell, but you're uncertain which way, or how. Your voice is level, confident in your assessment after everything the demon has told you. It's much easier to talk about demons and Gods than it is to speak about yourself. "We've reached the lair of an archdemon. A fallen Mother of the Church of Mercy. She claimed her name is Idonea. She wished to..."

You look over to the minor demons, who have turned back towards you. They're entirely static, staring at you with unblinking light. Though their faces are obscured, you cringe at the scrutiny and try to avert your gaze. You catch Ofelia, Celegwen and Ray looking at you intently as well.

The blood around Ray's mouth is unbearable. His whining is incessant, though you could scarcely hear it moments ago. Your heart gives way, at your neglect and the crushing guilt of bringing him into the ruins to begin with. Taking the mastiff into your arms, you entirely lose your train of thought while trying to reassure him.

"It's okay, boy. It's alright. Come here, Ray. Lay down, Ray. Rest. It's okay. Let's get you cleaned up-"

(1/3)
>>
>>3914920
Ofelia sniffs, holding out a handkerchief in front of you. You hadn't even noticed that she was standing so close to you still, but you gladly take it from her. Gently, you try to assess the damage. It looks like the mastiff had something pull firmly at his teeth. His gums are tender, but no teeth are missing, and he seems to be able to move his mouth without issue.

"You'll be alright, boy. Rest."

There's another sound from Ofelia. She finally interrupts, her voice cracking again.

The fear in her voice is so intense that you can't bear to look at her.

"Richard. What did you do?"

The conflict between your current position, finding the relic, and enduring such a mixed blessing from Mercy produces an awkward tone, distressed and entirely uncertain of how to feel. You struggle to convey everything you've learned. "Idonea has it. Mercy's Relic. Malimos has been watching us. He's told her everything. The archdemon knew of the Catalyst- of my mission- of our travels. I agreed... I agreed to show her children Mercy in exchange for the Relic."

Alarm crosses Celegwen's face, tightening her grasp on your hand. "You made a deal with a demon? An archdemon?"

"It's alright," you insist. "I'm not doing anything that's against my order- Her tenets. I was able to invoke Mercy to protect myself from the Relic's light..."

You have to close your eyes, to take a deep breath, to try and compose yourself. When you open them, Ofelia is right beside you as well.

"Richard, you're..."

You pry your hand off of your holy symbol for a moment to wipe your face. Embarrassed, you thought you were crying- but there's a streak of gold on the back of your wrist.

Your eyes were leaking gold.

Celegwen's grasp on you tightens even further. "Father, I swore to help you. ...but I cannot stand by while you destroy yourself."

She places her head on your shoulder, paying no mind to how bad you're trembling. "Please. Let us help you. ...so we can all leave this place together."

You take another deep breath, trying to gather your composure, to engage in some normalcy, to at least put on the appearance of someone sane. Having Celegwen on your shoulder isn't helping your heart rate, and you can't quite answer her, either. You can't make that promise. ...but you can at least try to talk to her.

"...while I was with Mercy- did you two see anything? Do you remember how you came to be here?"

Ofelia's voice is low. She sounds at least slightly relieved to hear a reasonable question from you. She looks over her hands, wiping off the blood gently. Her hands are scuffed, but it looks like the wound has partially healed. "Everythin' happened so fast. I think I mighta' been knocked out from the fall. ...there was a light. Not really sure, but when I came to, we were here. I thought those demons over there were gonna mess you up, Richard, but I think they were more nervous than we are-"

(2/3)
>>
>>3914924
Celegwen's distaste is immediate. She lifts her head off of your shoulder to glare at the halfling. "Ofelia."

"Sorry. You looked real messed up though, Richard- no offense- but all that gold wasn't nothin' like I'd seen before. This Goddess of yours..."

The rogue tightens her hands. Anger tilts into her words, clipped and accented with something you can't quite identify. It's not the usual sass. It's not jealousy.

"...I don't like it. You promised to take care of yourself. I don't care how good it might feel, Richard. She's not treatin' you right."

You turn away from both women, staring intently at Ray. He's clearly on edge, laying down as you've commanded, but obviously unable to rest. His low whining and growls are constant, clearly directed at the minor demons standing across from you all.

Your voice is low, your eyes downcast. "I know I abused Her. I know this isn't right. I'm sorry you had to see me in such a way. ...I need some time, some space. We will be alright-"

You look up, trying to be reassuring. The looks on Ofelia's and Celegwen's face cuts you deeply, but you persevere.

"We're safe here. Idonea needs me. I am bound by my word- I will uphold my oath, take the Relic away from this place, and we..."

The earnestness in your voice cuts through the strain, lifting your eyes and body. Trembling, you manage to get to your feet. Celegwen keeps your hand in hers, standing with you.

It's a struggle, but you manage to look straight at Ofelia and Celegwen.

"We will see the sun again."

Two pained smiles shine back at you. You try and sear the image into your memory. The stress on Ofelia's face is apparent, and Celegwen looks like she expects you to collapse at any moment- but they're both looking at you with hope and that is more than you could ever ask for.

You look towards the doors ahead of you, the minor demons, the moon hanging overhead.

"We have a week."

Ofelia instantly starts. "What?!"

"I know-" you sigh, "but the archdemon is ancient. She seems to be at the limit of her strength. She gave me a week. We can't afford to linger."

Celegwen stiffens her lip, clutching tightly onto her staff and looking at you with an expression you're entirely unfamiliar with. "...I cannot abide by your continued suffering, Father. We must end this."

The elf's voice is soft, her eyes glancing over your frame, and finally to the field beyond. "...what must we do?"

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3914930
>A) Begin by scavenging the field, to see if your scarce supplies are scattered anywhere.
>A1) Leave Celegwen with Ray. You don't trust him alone. Not with the minor demons lingering.
>A2) Leave Ray alone, and have everyone spread out to cover more ground. The minor demons seem to have an insane degree of discipline- it would be foolish for them to attack one of your allies.

>B) Forget finding your gear. You don't need cartography tools or lock picks. Immediately scout out the doors that Idonea opened. There is no time to waste.

>C) Take a brief rest. You're really, really out of it, and you want Ray by your side.
>C1) Have Ofelia search the field, while Celegwen inspects the doors.
>C2) Have Celegwen conjure food and water for you all, and have everyone rest. You all marched for a day just to get here.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3914932
>>C) Take a brief rest. You're really, really out of it, and you want Ray by your side.
>>C1) Have Ofelia search the field, while Celegwen inspects the doors.
>>
>>3914932
>>C) Take a brief rest. You're really, really out of it, and you want Ray by your side.
>>C1) Have Ofelia search the field, while Celegwen inspects the doors.
>>
>>3914932
>>C) Take a brief rest. You're really, really out of it, and you want Ray by your side.
>>C1) Have Ofelia search the field, while Celegwen inspects the doors.

though I feel the other option may be better...searching can't hurt r-right
>>
>>3915058
>>3915514
>>3915517
Gonna call it here to get one more update out before I crash. Vote is locked, writing now.
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>>3915524
Still on your knees, you slide to the ground, sitting down properly next to Ray. The mastiff's breath is hard, his nerves shot. Gently, you place a hand on his side and try to reassure all of your allies.

"Celegwen. Please. Will you inspect the doors that Idonea opened? She claimed that they were the chambers of demons by the name of Yech, Beltoro, and Remigius, though I am... uncertain of what they contain. I fear something may come for us, if we leave them open and unattended-"

Celegwen doesn't hesitate. "I will see to it. Get some rest."

The elf turns and leaves before you can stop her, darting out into the field. She takes a wide path around the minor demons, who seem to pay her little mind.

You look to Ofelia. Her face is pale, and the start of bags under her eyes is evident. Your voice softens.

"You must be exhausted."

"...yeah. What about you?"

Despite your best efforts, you can't quite repress the tremor running through your body. Ofelia comes next to you, kneeling down and softening her expression as well.

"You don't gotta answer. You really pushed yourself, didn't you?"

A nod, a glance away, and an apologetic face is the best you can offer.

Ofelia offers you a small smile, backing up and straightening out her blouse. "Thanks. I knew you wouldn't let anythin' happen to us. I'm gonna kick yer ass if you don't take it easy, though. You need somethin'?"

The pained expression on your face threatens to make itself permanent. "I hate to ask, but what happened to all of our equipment? I noticed Celegwen still had her staff-"

"She grabbed it the second the rope started to give. I think she was gonna try to save ya', but we all got pulled in pretty fast. I swiped at our stuff, but it was no use. ...yer shield's a little big for me, and all. But don't worry about it. I'll go look around. Maybe it's near the edge."

You both look towards the enormous field stretching out around you. Ofelia pauses.

"...any idea which way might be best?"

Looking to the moon overhead, the colossal walls and endless stone, you keep your hand to your holy symbol. You want guidance- but you're terrified of praying again so soon.

Ofelia closes the distance between the two of you once more. She reaches out, to take your hand-

The hand on your holy symbol.

You pull back, recoiling from the motion.

"Don't-"

Her hand draws back, but she remains near you, the hurt in her voice evident.

"You can rely on yerself sometimes, too, y'know? ...it's okay. I'll start searchin'. Take care of yerself, Richard. Maybe get some sleep. Seems to help ya' more than most things."

The halfling surprises you, turning towards the minor demons leering at you all. Her voice rings out as she shouts to them. Despite her size, you know her threat has weight to it.

"Don't you dare lay a finger on him! So help me, he'll be the last thing you ever touch-!"

She turns, offering you a smile before her cloak and small form vanish into the grain.

(1/3)
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>>3915698
https://youtu.be/x6rZ6ziUDGw

You're alone, once again, with Ray.

"Hey, boy. You holdin' up alright?"

Ray's constant whining eases up for a moment as you direct your voice at him. He turns his attention from the minor demons, looking to you with evident distress.

You lean in, hands trembling, and scratch the mastiff behind the ears. His whining practically stops, nuzzling up to you and placing his head gingerly in your lap.

"We're gonna be okay. It's alright. Come here, Ray. ...good boy."

You take the mastiff into a hug, taking extra care to hold his jaw away. His whining ceases after a few minutes.

Before long, he drifts off to sleep, as you continue to gently nuzzle against him.

"You deserve better than this, big guy. We'll get you out of here. Everything is going to be alright."

Looking around, you see no trace of Ofelia or Celegwen for some time. The minor demons keep their distance, though what you presume to be their eyes hasn't left you for a moment.

You can't quite sleep, but you do drift off, the warm air lulling you into some sense of security. Ray's weight is heavy against you, but the warmth of something other than a God or Goddess is a welcome change. You absent-mindedly continue to pet him, letting your mind wander. You can't remember the last time you had a moment just to think.

I came down here to die. ...and I've found so many reasons to live.
Mercy loves me, knows my devotion, knows that I am always with Her.
She has blessed me, blessed me with this knowledge, this mission. Taken me to the ends of the Aerth to serve Her mission, to make something of myself...
...and there may yet be a cure to the Catalyst.
Maybe this demon is lying. Maybe she has no intent of surrendering the Relic.
...but what if she's speaking the truth? What if all of this- this pain, actually can be relieved? What if a demon can be Merciful?

Your eyes fall on the doors ahead. Celegwen is picking her way back through the grain towards you. She looks excited.

I have more than myself to worry about.
What can she possibly see in me?
Does she have no idea how much I stand to lose, if I were to return her affection?
I swore to get us all out of here alive.
...I swore to save myself for the Gods.

The elf's smile beams out towards you. "Father! You will not believe what I've seen-"

I have to protect her.

Looking down to Ray for a moment, your thoughts flicker to him, to Ofelia.

I have to protect them.

You look back up. To your immense relief, the tremor seems to be subsiding slightly. You may have just needed to rest. "What have you found?"

"There is running water. One of the doors leads to a forest. It is- absolutely breathtaking. There is more. A strange red building, and-"

(2/3)
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>>3915705
Celegwen closes the distance between you. Seeing that Ray is asleep in your lap, she lowers her voice. Looking around briefly, her tone takes on a hint of bewilderment. "Where has Ofelia gone?"

You glance up, completely unable to see anything past the stalks of wheat. "She went searching for all of our equipment. ...though I do not know how she expects to find it, given the size of this place."

There's a slight sound from Celegwen.

Alarmed, you look up to her, only to see that she's laughing. There's a few tears mixed into her outburst. She sits down next to you, placing her head in her hands for a moment, wiping away the emotion.

You're stunned.

The elf's composure seems to be a little fractured as she smiles at you. "You let her go off, alone, in this place-"

Looking around at the field, Celegwen laughs slightly again. "She is miraculous. Almost as much as you are, Father. I suspect she will be alright."

Her silver hair bobs slightly as she turns towards you, the purple and black in her eyes sparkling as she seems to regain her composure completely. You marvel at her race's immaculacy, and question if it may just be her. Her voice is light, as always. "We should wait for her return, should we not?"

>A) Ask Celegwen to fill you in on what she saw while you wait for Ofelia. The halfling has unparalleled skill in evading detection- you know she stands a better chance of avoiding trouble. More importantly, she'll probably be impossible to find if she's trying to not be seen.

>B) Call out for Ofelia. Go look for her. The archdemon has ultimate authority in her domain- you know her children will not attack you. You're better off searching together, anyways. Leave Ray with Celegwen, and let her rest for a moment as well.

>C) Get some rest with Ray and Celegwen while you wait for Ofelia. You are extremely pressed for time, but you do need to sleep eventually. Better now than to press on, exhausted, later. Ask Celegwen to keep an eye on you and Ray, and to wake you the second anything suspicious happens.

>D) Write-in.
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>>3915708
>A) Ask Celegwen to fill you in on what she saw while you wait for Ofelia. The halfling has unparalleled skill in evading detection- you know she stands a better chance of avoiding trouble. More importantly, she'll probably be impossible to find if she's trying to not be seen.
>>
>>3915708
>>A) Ask Celegwen to fill you in on what she saw while you wait for Ofelia. The halfling has unparalleled skill in evading detection- you know she stands a better chance of avoiding trouble. More importantly, she'll probably be impossible to find if she's trying to not be seen.
>>
Just finished the backlog. Holy shit this quest is awesome
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>>3915881
Shit dude, thank you so much. Means a lot.
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>>3915881
Hope you didnt forget to vote the archived thread!
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>>3915819
>>3915828
>>3915881
>>3915903
Aight, locking the vote here so I can get out an early update today. Writing now.
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>>3916082
"Of course we should," you murmur, shying away from Celegwen's stare. She seems to glance away as well, evidently remembering how nervous the eye contact makes you. Your gaze falls to your hands. The faded burns, pale cuts and old abrasions don't catch against the light. Your sleeves hang loose against your emaciated wrists, the fabric frayed from weeks of travel without reprieve. A few flecks of gold cling to the soft weave, and you inwardly cringe, reminded of the gold trim that's expected to be worn by someone of your station. You've always hated the gaudiness of the clergy leader's attire. The plain black suits you far better.

You nervously pick at the gold, murmuring again. "Ofelia is- extraordinarily capable. We can spare a few more moments to wait for her. I'm certain that she'll be alright."

There's a pause as you manage to get the gold loose. A stray thread comes with it, only serving to fray the fabric further. You grimace, giving up on fixing your robes and glancing back towards Ray. He's sleeping soundly, snoring blissfully on your lap. "Can you please let me know what you've seen, Celegwen?"

"The archdemon opened three doors, did she not?"

"...that I could see. Yes."

"Each was inscribed with an initial. It is safe to assume that they corresponded to each of the names she gave you. The chamber of "Yech" housed the forest. The fresh air, Father! It may only be an illusion, but it is invigorating. I- I am not certain if we should attempt to resupply there, but there is running water, and trees. Trees, and birds, and flowers-!"

You almost catch yourself smiling. Celegwen's voice is lighter than you've ever heard it, her eyes sparkling as she looks to the doors beyond. She bows her head slightly.

"You will have to forgive me, Father. It has been months since I last laid eyes on anything so green."

"It's alright," you reassure her.

She's looking at your eyes again. The sudden recollection of their color brings a flush to your face as you stammer, "and- what of the other t-two?"

"Ah- they seem to be under equally heavily enchantments. The one that houses "Remigius" appears to house a strange, red building. The structure is entirely unlike anything I have seen before. A heat and pulsing- sensation- was coming from it, though I did not sense anyone outside, nor hear anything distinctly coming from within..."

The elf puts a finger to her chin, clearly thinking at length. "The other- "Beltoro's"- seemed to stretch outwards infinitely. Though the structure was contained by the door, the stone and devices within defied my comprehension. It was quite unsettling."

You don't reply, deliberating over this information. You both pass several moments together in silence, before Celegwen speaks again.

"...Father. I am deeply troubled that you have made an agreement with this archdemon. I understand how pressing our need is, but-"

(1/3)
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>>3916135
"Celegwen- I am bound by my word. To serve Mercy is to uphold Her tenets, to abide by Her compassion."

It's so much easier to speak of the Gods. You rapidly get caught up in the moment, in the heat of invoking Her name. "...to show restraint even in the face of the undeserving. I heard it, Celegwen- I heard Her blessing, Her mission- not just to seek Mercy's relic, but to find one of Our children that still possessed kindness in their heart."

There's a fire in your eyes, a warmth in your voice. The timidness is scarce, replaced with fervor, devotion and love. "I cannot turn away from my calling."

Celegwen meets your eyes. The silver and flecks of the ethereal have the same fire in them.

"I never meant to question it."

The spark between you two is almost unbearable. You find yourself, glancing away to see the tension in her shoulders, her delicate fingers toying with the hem of her dress. There's that cloying worry again in Celegwen's voice.

"I understand completely."

There's a rustling in the grain. You both turn your heads quickly- Celegwen instantly springs to her feet, staff in hand, while you tense against the weight of Ray on your lap. He's so much heavier than you are, you can scarcely move with him on top of you.

Fortunately, the source of the disturbance is merely Ofelia. Her petite frame emerges from the field adjacent to you both, clearly exhausted. With a sigh, she drops both of your packs to the floor. Your shield is nowhere in sight.

"Back-" she groans, splaying out on the soil and looking to you with a grin. "...got yer stuff, Richard. Didn't even go through it this time."

Celegwen looks mildly irritated. "You could have come and asked for our help, Ofelia. There was no need to go off alone-"

"'Course there was." She smirks, looking between the two of you.

She makes no indication of finishing her sentence.

You glance away from both women, flustered and murmuring. "Thank you, Ofelia."

"...Richard, are you stuck under Ray?"

"...he needed to rest."

Ofelia's snickers are unbearable, but she picks herself up and drags your backpack over to you. You give her an appreciative look, taking the hand-sewn satchel from her hands as gingerly as possible so as to not wake your dog.

Everything is broken.

The chalk, all of your candles, the daggers you pilfered from the imps within the catacombs, your remaining torch, and even the pens. You murmur thanks to Mercy momentarily for having emptied them of ink before stashing them inside the bag. The only thing that isn't completely battered is your water skin, journal, and the demon's diary you took from the library of Ostedholm. The leather and parchment seems to have held up well, despite whatever they went through to get where you are now.

(2/3)
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>>3916136
The halfling's face is absolutely crestfallen when she sees you eyeing the broken candles. "Ah, fuck. ...should have helped you with some of that, huh? Probably wouldn't have done much good. Most of my things are busted, too. We've got another day's worth of food left, at least. ...and some more liquor, but I'm not lettin' ya near that til' we're back somewhere safer."

Celegwen's voice is level, but you can pick up on her strain regardless. "What of the artifacts, Ofelia?"

"Fine, of course. That cookbook ya' gave me Richard- thanks fer that by the way- got the worst of the broken waterskin."

The elf's face tightens. "How much is left?"

Ofelia gives her an apologetic look. "Not much. Between the four of us, at the rate we're going, not enough for two days. Definitely not a week. Hopin' we're not here that long, anyways, but-"

You look between the two women, acutely aware of how delicate time is for all of you.

"Celegwen, you had mentioned recalling conjuration...?"

She gives you a weary look. "Yes, Father. It is an incredibly taxing spell. Far more so than dissipation. I would greatly prefer to save my strength, and for us to find a safe supply of water elsewhere- but I will do what I must."

>A) Take this time for Celegwen to conjure food and water. Have everyone rest. You can scout out the chambers once everyone has had time to recuperate.

>B) Immediately scout out the chamber of Yech for a clean supply of water. Celegwen stated that there was running water, birds and trees there. If the enchantment is merely an illusion, you'll at least confirm if you have no other resources as soon as possible.

>C) Ask Aurelius about the gigantic field of grain you're sitting in. She had offered you her bounty once before, claiming it could heal. While the thought of imbibing anything from a demon directly is revolting, the field you're occupying seems real and organic enough.

>D) Pray to Agriculture, to bestow food and water upon you all. Her blessing can stave off an entire country's famine- invoking Her name to feed you all during your time here is minor in comparison. You are horrifically thin, and while you shudder to think of any further injury to your form, you need to look after everyone.

>E) Write-in.
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>>3916138
>>B) Immediately scout out the chamber of Yech for a clean supply of water. Celegwen stated that there was running water, birds and trees there. If the enchantment is merely an illusion, you'll at least confirm if you have no other resources as soon as possible.
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>>3916138
>>B) Immediately scout out the chamber of Yech for a clean supply of water. Celegwen stated that there was running water, birds and trees there. If the enchantment is merely an illusion, you'll at least confirm if you have no other resources as soon as possible.
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>>3916138
>B) Immediately scout out the chamber of Yech for a clean supply of water. Celegwen stated that there was running water, birds and trees there. If the enchantment is merely an illusion, you'll at least confirm if you have no other resources as soon as possible.
Lessen the god-invoking to a necessary level. We need water more than we need food.
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>>3916155
>>3916292
>>3916318
Unanimous, alright. Noted. Locking the vote, writing now.
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>>3913373
>>3913380
>when even the fucking demonic Mother of Mercy sees you as repulsive and fearsome while you channel her dear deity, who she is fallen away from, right in front of her to give you one hell of a divine erection
>when even she can sense through her Catalyst that Mercy is into it as much as you are
Holy shit, talk about NTR
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>>3916517
>when she fucking turns and walks away from a Richard openly convulsing in pleasure, and stops to turn the head of the youngest demon girl so she doesn't see the perverted man getting off both to and with her goddess
I didn't notice this when I was reading the first time, but wow. When are Richard and Mercy going to stop holding back and actually fuck? And what are the chances of it actually killing Richard via heart attack or something else? Because I think that's where all this is going to go if he isn't careful.
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>>3916450
"Save your strength, Celegwen. We'll scout ahead. ...I hope you're right, Ofelia. I do not wish to stay here any longer than necessary, either."

An incredibly relieved and immaculate smile beams at you, as Celegwen glances from you to the doors beyond. "To the forest, then?"

"Yes. ...just a moment."

With a murmur and a pat on his side, you lean next to Ray's ear and try to rouse the mastiff. "Up, boy. ...sorry to wake you so soon. Come on."

A huge yawn immediately greets you. Your dog immediately, albeit blearily rolls off of you, slumping onto the soil with little grace or any care beyond staying asleep. He obediently manages to rouse himself, despite the weight of his sleep. You notice his ears are still back, his tail down. He clearly needs to rest.

Your voice sounds far more hurt than he likely feels. "Here, Ray. It's alright, boy. ...not much longer now, okay? Up."

The mastiff licks the sides of your robes, starting to wrestle his way back onto your lap. It breaks your heart to pull away from him, but there's no time to give him the attention he's sorely craving. You settle on lightly tapping his nose, ruffling a hand through his fur, and scratching his ears affectionately.

"I love you too, big guy, but we need to move. Up. Come on. Take it easy. With me, Ray."

You rise, giving a pained looked to your companions. Ofelia groans, getting back to her feet and slinging her pack over her shoulders.

"Think I could just, you know, ride on 'im for a little while, Richard?"

"...I'm not going to dignify that with a proper answer, Ofelia. Come on, boy. Stay close. Easy."

"Maybe another time, alright. ...one day, Gwen. Mark my words."

Celegwen lets loose a small laugh, already setting off. With more difficulty than usual, you manage to lead Ray right after her. Ofelia brings up the rear, trailing slightly behind as she keeps her eyes out. She makes an incredibly rude gesture at the minor demons as you all pass them by, heading for the expanse of doors across the field.

A huge sigh of relief escapes from Celegwen as she brings you nearer. The particular door she's waiting in front of is made of iron, with a collection of heraldry inscribed in the bars. The work is that of a master craftsman- and surely enough, you catch an emblem in the center with a large "Y" inscribed into the face.

The elf is hardly smitten with the door. She's gazing, longingly, out a black expanse ahead. You peer around the curve in her hips, unable to see anything at all other than darkness and smoke.

Ofelia clears her throat. "Gwen? You alright there?"

"Do you trust me?" She replies, looking to you both intensely.

It's the same look you saw in her before. The one you couldn't place.

(1/3)
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>>3916547
It's desire.

You stammer, complete caught off-guard. "Of c-course."

Ofelia winks at her in an extremely sarcastic fashion. "Sure, sure. Far as I can throw ya'. Where the hell does this lead, again?"

"A forest, Ofelia- the chamber of a demon by the name of "Yech.""

"Really? Yech?"

"That is what Richard told me-"

The elf looks to you quizzically, almost as if she's expecting you to say this is all some sort of joke.

You can't help but shrug. "Names hold greater significance to some demons.... some more than others. I do not know with any certainty what lies beyond- but I trust you, Celegwen."

Ofelia sighs, nodding.

You all step through the door, together.

(2/3)
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>>3916550
https://youtu.be/r2DG5-sjqso

A harsh rush of brisk air greets you. The smell of grass, a slight rain, and a fine mist covering the rocks and forest beyond hits you with such intensity that you stagger backwards for a moment.

Ray immediately begins barking, his weariness momentarily forgotten by the water and birds flying overhead. You look around, bewildered.

Behind you lies an extraordinarily tall gap in the rock face. It looks like a natural break in the stone- and the door is nowhere to be seen.

Celegwen immediately takes the end of her staff and draws a huge circle in the soil before the stone. Her voice is as light as air. "I nearly lost sight of the exit, last I entered here."

You step back and call Ray back, quickly. With a surprising amount of force, the elf jabs the end of her staff into the side of the rock, making another marking in the soft stone.

Ofelia is literally twiddling her thumbs alongside you both, grinning cheekily. Her hair is frizzing slightly from the humidity, the light rain hitting her freckles as she looks skyward. "I could get used to this."

"Don't get too comfortable," you caution her, slinging off your bag and taking out your water skin. It takes a few seconds to give Ray a drink, and to choke down a mouthful yourself before propping the empty flask next to Celegwen's markings. The rainwater immediately begins to fill the canister.

The steady stream, the trickling of water. You tense, acutely reminded of collapsing in the darkness. Of being lanced by an orc chieftain's weapon. Of tremor, and lightning, and looking upon a God after hours of drowning in the midst of demons-

"Richard?"

Ofelia's tapping on the side of your leg is jarring. You glance towards her, wide-eyed, your arm twitching as it takes hold of your holy symbol.

"Come on, hotshot. We're gettin' outta here soon as we can."

Ray is right beside you, the last of the blood having washed clean of his face. The rain is picking up. The sound has you on edge, but your mastiff leans into you, licking your free hand and panting. The rain may be an illusion, but so far as you can tell, it's not hurting him. It might actually be safe.

You scratch behind his ears, looking to the forest beyond, the hue in your eyes nearly identical to that of the canopy beyond.

(Options in next post)
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>>3916557
>A) Gather as much water as you can here, and let everyone rest. You're nervous, but water is your top priority, and there's no telling how long this will last for. Set off the minute you've filled your water skins. Celegwen seems extremely eager to head for the treeline. Let her indulge her curiosity.

>B) Double back to Idonea's lair, and get some sleep before properly embarking. See if you can talk to any of her children about what you might find here. You don't want to waste time, but everyone is clearly exhausted, and this place has you on edge.

>C) See if you and Ofelia can work together to track the movement of anything through this area before the rain gets too intense. Streams will no doubt gather- you can resupply once you have an idea of where you're headed. There's no time to waste.

>D) Write-in.
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>>3916517
>>3916524
Didn't mean to drown this out with the update but what can I say? Glad you caught how utterly fucked it was to want to invoke Her in any capacity, given the situation. Not that you guys could have known just how bad it would get, but man. Man.
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>>3916561
>>A) Gather as much water as you can here, and let everyone rest. You're nervous, but water is your top priority, and there's no telling how long this will last for. Set off the minute you've filled your water skins. Celegwen seems extremely eager to head for the treeline. Let her indulge her curiosity.
>>
>>3916561
>>A) Gather as much water as you can here, and let everyone rest. You're nervous, but water is your top priority, and there's no telling how long this will last for. Set off the minute you've filled your water skins. Celegwen seems extremely eager to head for the treeline. Let her indulge her curiosity.
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>>3916919
>>3917297
Slow day for everyone, got time for one more update at least tonight though. Let's do this thing. Vote is locked, writing now.
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>>3917384
https://youtu.be/T-f_FTadkD0

The steady downpour picks up quickly, as you look out onto the horizon. You leave your water skin propped against the walls as Ofelia quickly places several more next to it. Within minutes, the rain is coming down in sheets.

"Shit," Ofelia murmurs, pulling up her hood and looking to you all. "Come on."

It only takes a few moments to find an outcropping of rocks nearby to seek cover under. Ray gets extremely close next to you as a peal of thunder breaks out from growing clouds overhead. You kneel down, holding him closely beside you- but you keep your eyes skyward. The peals of thunder and subsequent lightning arc through the sky, dancing along the trees ahead.

Your heart goes out to the God of the Tempest.

"It's okay, boy. Storm is with us. There's nothing to fear."

Celegwen wrings out her hair slightly, and Ofelia tosses her hood back. They both slide down next to the stone and settle next to you. The outcropping is fairly large, rain coursing over the stone behind and before you. Despite the beautiful shelter, they both seem nervous.

You lift your eyes for a moment to a flock of birds that passes by, settling across from you all for protection from the rain.

Ray tenses further at the sight of them. You hold him close, murmuring, demanding his attention. "Stay. Good boy, Ray. It's alright. They're not going to hurt anyone. ...lay down. Come on now. You're not a puppy anymore, big guy. What's gotten into you?"

Your companions both speak to each other in low voices as you work to reassure Ray. The mastiff is shaking like a leaf. After what feels like a half an hour, or maybe more, he finally settles down.

Ofelia whispers to you, once he finally rests. "Scared of storms, huh?"

"Ray's always hated Him," you whisper back, properly settling next to your boy. "It's been at least a year since I've seen him so worked up over thunder, though."

It's hard to not think back to your time with the God. It feels like a lifetime ago.

"I never had the chance to ask you both before-"

Both women look to you earnestly as you continue. You settle your eyes on the water pouring overhead, as nervous as it's making you feel.

"Back in the waterway- I was certain I had drowned. Ray managed to escape, but I... I have no idea how long we were apart for, or what had happened to him."

Another peal of thunder cracks across the sky, shaking the stone behind you all. You don't flinch, though the tremor seems to startle both Ofelia and Celegwen.

"...I still am not entirely certain what happened to me."

A dawn of realization seems to come across Celegwen's face. "He was badly wounded. I was able to heal him, to the best of my ability, but he was so hostile I could not do so with his cooperation. It is as I told you before- I had to place a charm on him, to keep him from attacking us."

(1/3)
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>>3917469
Ofelia's voice is still quite low, and the apology that creeps into her voice is more gentle still. "We didn't hurt him or nothin'. Was weird as shit seein' a dog in the ruins, to be honest. No way we coulda' thought he was a demon, but he sure seemed like he'd dealt with 'em. We figured his owner had to be around somewhere, but it was- well, it was awhile before we found ya'."

You remain silent, listening to the cascade of water as it flows down the stone around you all. You take a hand off of Ray to hold your own form steady. Though you're hardly shaking with fear, the tremor in your limbs hasn't left you in weeks. It's only seemed to worsen.

Celegwen leans in a bit further, her hands folded neatly in her lap, her staff propped up behind you all. "The way you fought against the demon beneath the waterway..."

Her eyes are shining. It's hard to not look her way, with the tone in her voice, but you don't want to meet her gaze. Instead you merely catch a glimpse of worry, a hint of strain. "No sorcery could have rivaled the power you exhibited, Father. We suspected the effort would have killed you. Yet-"

Another bolt of thunder breaks out, so close that it utterly deafens Celegwen's next words.

You don't jump, holding onto Ray as he stirs in his sleep. Once you're sure he's alright, you do at least glance up. Ofelia is clutching onto Celegwen. The halfling's face is white, her hair practically standing on end.

She huffs, "this is bullshit."

The two women clutch onto each other as another clap of thunder erupts.

You look to your water skins and flasks, lined up haphazardly, at least mildly concerned that they might be taken away by the building current. They're filling rapidly.

At least another hour passes in near silence. You can't help but murmur your thanks to Storm as you all regain your supply of water. There is no need to invoke the God- you know He's looking upon you all.

The sky overhead remains gloomy and full of mist, but the clouds do gradually part. The rain doesn't completely subside, but the itch to keep moving has you on your feet before long.

Ofelia is sound asleep in Celegwen's arms. She must have been far more exhausted than you realized. The elf looks up to you with a slight smile.

It's strained, but you manage to offer her one back.

"We should keep moving." You murmur, glancing to the tree line. "Do you suspect we'll have better luck in the woods...?"

The elf's smile breaks out fully. "I would hope so. I will have a far easier time navigating the forest than this storm and stone."

You gently rouse Ray from his slumber. "Hey, boy. It's alright. He's giving you a break. ...consider yourself lucky."

The mastiff's eyes fall on you, a great deal of anxiety parting from them once he recognizes the thunder has stopped. He licks your hands, getting up of his own volition and pacing around you.

A terrible pang of guilt hits you. He's hungry.

"...Ofelia. Ofelia, wake up."

(2/3)
>>
>>3917471
The halfling's eyes flutter open, grinning sheepishly at you as she pries herself off of Celegwen. "Isn't that a nice change of pace- wakin' me up for a change. Whaddid I miss?"

"Storm has departed. He's seen fit to bless us- but, Ofelia. You said we had enough food for another day? At least?"

She immediately seems to wake up, looking between you and Ray. "Oh. Right. ...right. Yeah. About that. We can ration it, but it's gonna be tight. I can go without for a while, and I know Gwen can too. I'm more worried 'bout you two. Hold on a sec-"

With a skip, pulling up her hood, Ofelia dives out from the cover you're all under and swipes up the water skins and flasks you've all set out.

She looks a little nervous, skipping back quickly, and offers one of the containers to Celegwen. "Checks out?"

The elf scrutinizes the water, and to your surprise, she takes a sip. The face she makes is entirely not what you'd expect.

It's almost as if she's had a stiff drink.

"This... this is potato liquor."

You and Ofelia simultaneously balk at her statement. "What?"

She takes another sip. "...very, very strong liquor. Even I can feel it. Strange."

Ofelia looks to you skeptically. "Storm, eh?"

A nauseating blend of confusion and indignation worms itself into your drying robes, your damp hair, the steady trickle of the rain.

"...Mercy."

>A) Refuse to touch the liquor, and continue on your way. You'll abstain for as long as you need to. You have places to go, an oath to keep, and you need your wits about you. You'll ration what you can for Ray from the food that's left. You'll have to do without for now.

>B) Pray to Agriculture, to remove all trace of the alcohol. This is an affront to the Gods, and you need to take care of your dog. You won't stand for this. Give him your share of food, and share the water. It's evident that you can't trust what you find here.

>C) Ask Celegwen to conjure clean water for you and Ray. You'll ration the food between you two, when you absolutely need to. Her and Ofelia may not respect your deities, but they certainly respect you. Hopefully the sorceress can endure the strain well enough to keep you both on your feet.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3917472
>A) Refuse to touch the liquor, and continue on your way. You'll abstain for as long as you need to. You have places to go, an oath to keep, and you need your wits about you. You'll ration what you can for Ray from the food that's left. You'll have to do without for now.
Removing all trace of the alcohol is gonna leave shit for water in the skins, since I suspect it's like 80% alcohol 20% water, and it will also piss off Ofelia. Conjuration will drain more out of Gwen than Agriculture might drain out of Richard. No, we promised to minimize invoking unless ABSOLUTELY necessary. We can hopefully find some actual water somewhere else in this section, perhaps a river or small stream or anything at all, but liquor rain is not what we need right now.
>>
>>3917472
>>A) Refuse to touch the liquor, and continue on your way. You'll abstain for as long as you need to. You have places to go, an oath to keep, and you need your wits about you. You'll ration what you can for Ray from the food that's left. You'll have to do without for now.
We can handle it, we havent explored that much, maybe we could filter it thru some moss we find in the forest?
>>
>>3917516
>>3917537
Some seriously astute observations. Noting all of this, locking the vote. Writing now. Updates will be a little slow today but I can get quite a few out if we keep a few votes rolling in.
>>
>>3917695
"I suppose you won't be having any, then?" Ofelia frowns, obviously scrutinizing your thin, long limbs and gaunt face.

"This is the last thing we need right now," you frown back. "I would like to ration some food for Ray, but I can do without."

The halfling moves to get her supplies, but the face that she gives you immediately has you putting your hands up, trying to reassure her. "I promised you- I want to take care of myself. I won't invoke the Gods unless it's absolutely necessary. I'll be fine. ...perhaps we'll find a stream or better resource within the woods."

The paltry amount of greens that Ofelia sticks your way and her lack of protest stresses to you just how low supplies have dwindled. She doesn't need to say anything, but you appreciate the sincere look that she gives you. She seems to take your words to heart.

Once Ray has been fed, and you've consoled him that you'll find something in the way of steak as soon as possible, you all set off into the mist.

Now that you're aware of the heavy atmosphere bearing liquor, you are even more reluctant to linger. Alcohol is hardly forbidden to members of the clergy- it's safer than most water, after all- but you're terribly light, and concerned about the effects that this place may have on you all in the long term. You simply can't afford to let your guard down. The slightest break in the branches, the crunch of the grass underfoot, and the chirp of birds off in the distance all would be soothing, were you not so wary of what may lie in wait for you all.

https://youtu.be/va2cs3VDOA8

Celegwen seems utterly unphased, practically skipping ahead as you all proceed towards the forest. It takes nearly another hour, by your best estimates, to reach the tree line. Descending away from the slick rock and stone is slow going after the heavy rain. Regardless, Celegwen takes a deep breath in, looking about you all with childlike wonder once you reach the timbers. Taking her staff in one hand, and placing a hand to one of the colossal branches before you all, she beams.

You let out a small shout as she jumps up, deftly climbing onto one of the higher branches. The elf looks down to you all with an enormous grin. "This will only take a moment. It will be far easier to get the scope of the woods from the canopy."

Ofelia puts a hand to her temples, sighing, "she would. We'd better take the ground, eh, Richard?"

With a mutual sigh and a nod, you gesture towards Ray to follow you. The three of you cut into the dense underbrush, the overgrown trees, and the gray fog.

There's an abundance of resources to scavenge. Ofelia immediately unsheathes a dagger, but as she goes to cut into a patch of moss, she lets out a gasp.

You rush to her side, hand to your holy symbol. "What's wrong-"

(1/2)
>>
>>3917798
There's blood on her hands, but it's not hers. She's staring, wide-eyed, at the patch of greenery that she's cut. It contracts and writhes as if it were something alive, shaping and twisting from a harmless patch of greenery into a shrieking bundle of flesh-colored sponge.

The halfling stares at the red liquid pooling down her dagger, flicking it with extreme distaste onto the soil beneath your feet. "Fuckin' bullshit-! Oi! Gwen!"

Ofelia glances upwards. You cringe at her calling out when you have no idea what could be in the woods, but you can't imagine any other way to quickly get the elf's attention.

It takes a moment, but Celegwen reappears quickly enough. A few twigs are sticking out of her hair as she drops down next to you both, her face flushed. Elation and something more sinister graces her expression as she looks to you both- yet her delight falls as soon as she sees the crimson across the floor. "You've seen it, too, then?"

Ofelia nods, grimacing.

The elf looks around the woods, settling on you both with a little less enthusiasm. "The canopy stretches outwards almost indefinitely. It looks as though a fine mist covers the reaches of the horizon. Ofelia, you may be able to see further, but I suspect it is unnecessary. There is a large cavern near the center."

You tighten your hand around your holy symbol. "The demon is surely using the forest to wear on anyone that enters his domain."

Ofelia glances down to her dagger, making a slight sound as she cleans off the rest of the blood. "So it's alive, Gwen?"

She begins to gesture broadly, muttering to you both, "in a way. It is ancient, and imbued with a potent sorcery. It is at least a day's march to the center. ...I could not dissipate this effect on more than a small area at a time."

Celegwen places both hands on her staff, gesturing for you both to step back. You call Ray to your side as you oblige. The sorceress strikes her staff down on a bed of moss beneath her feet. A dust of starlight bursts forth, rapidly retracting back into her weapon and taking in all light with it. In the darkness that remains, the greenery draws into itself, morphing before your eyes from plant life, to flesh, to decay.

Only a desiccated patch of rotten flesh remains. Celegwen frowns. "It is as I feared, then. Something is actively controlling the illusion."

Your grimace could not be any deeper. "Someone."

>A) Make a break for the cavern, as quickly as you all can travel together. Ofelia, regrettably, can only make about half of your pace- but a day's hard march is managable, even without food or water. You all need to stick together.

>B) Make camp, and let your companions save their strength. If Yech is beholden to the archdemon, he's likely expecting you. Demons can rarely resist an opportunity to feed- and you're as good of bait as any. Risking a smoke signal or some other method of attracting attention might be too risky, given the volatile atmosphere.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3917799
>A

While we still have some food.
>>
>>3917799
is there anyway we could start a fire and burn whatever these things are? If not
>A
>>
>>3917799
>>A) Make a break for the cavern, as quickly as you all can travel together. Ofelia, regrettably, can only make about half of your pace- but a day's hard march is manageable, even without food or water. You all need to stick together.
>>
>>3917834
>>3917875
>>3917882
The volume of alcohol in the air is thin enough to breathe without immediate negative effects- you could certainly try and start a fire.

Locking the vote to get an update out in between some more homework. Writing now.
>>
>>3917993
The thought of being utterly surrounded by screaming, deadened flesh has your skin crawling. Itching for a torch, you look between Ofelia and Celegwen. Fiddling with your holy symbol brings you some comfort, but it's not enough.

"We need to keep moving, but I'd like to burn what we can. These woods are our enemy, so long as it can bring any harm to us-"

Ofelia interjects your statement by tastelessly driving her dagger into another pile of moss. The same shriek as before ushers forth, the pooling blood, the thrashing. A spark of disgust crawls up your spine, causing you to twitch your arm around Mercy's symbol even more tightly. The halfling shrugs. "Fine by me. Gwen? You alright?"

The elf's flush hasn't entirely left her. She absently picks a few leaves out of her hair, straightening her dress out. There's a slight dew on her arms and legs- and it occurs to you that she's the only one among you with any majorly exposed skin. Her voice is light as she looks to you both. "Yes. The air here is far lighter than it should be. It should not pose a threat, if you wish to destroy the illusion."

Ofelia unclasps her cloak, looking to Celegwen with extreme annoyance. "This demon knows how to party, I guess, but we don't got time fer this."

To your complete surprise, the rogue gently hands the over-sized swathe of blue fabric over to her friend. "Cover yourself up, and don't you dare get this caught on nothin'. Mind your face and ears, too."

Sheepishly, Celegwen takes the cloak and clasps the fabric over her bare shoulders. The hood seems to immediately accommodate her long ears and much taller frame. You'd marvel at the sorcery, but your concern for everyone's safety is much more pressing. You note that Ofelia's taken out a few more handkerchiefs from her pack as you start to work on a makeshift torch. She thrusts one at you with a slight smile.

"Hey. Lightweight. Keep yer face covered best as you can, 'kay?"

You frown at her comment, but accept the slip of fabric, tucking it away for a moment to successfully strike a spark. The bed of moss and leaves you've gathered flare up, screaming as the flame rapidly kindles. You stoke the mixture, plunging another handful of twigs and branches in before working at your torch. Occasionally you nudge Ray away from the flames, reminding him to keep his distance. Celegwen seems mildly uncomfortable, but you make quick work of the illusion.

"Not bad," Ofelia muses.

"Thank you. ...this is far from my first time away from the church," you reply, stamping out the cinders as best as you can. Taking up the smoldering, softly screaming wood, you notice that the flame isn't burning nearly as quickly as it should. It's clear that the air isn't quite right.

Mist licks at the bottom of your robes and around your friends as you turn to them all. "Let's keep moving. Celegwen, can you still guide us?"

(1/3)
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>>3918051
The elf offers you a light smile, out from under Ofelia's hood. "Of course. This way. ...take care to not start too many fires, Father. The mist was far heavier, deeper into the woods. I do not trust this place either."

With a nod, you call Ray to your side, and you all set back off.

The pace you keep behind Celegwen is clearly is straining Ofelia, but not a single complaint falls from her. You all silently pick your way through the branches and underbrush, keeping close to one another as the light behind you fades from sight. Celegwen frequently whispers to you all to mind upturned roots, pitfall and other hazards lying in the increasing darkness of the wood.

You make quick work of any large patches of moss you come by, not slowing the pace for a moment. Your long legs easily keep up with the two women, but the screaming of your torch has your nerves aflame as well. The fire dwindles after only an hour or two, the wood untreated and your skill with the craft wanting. You discard the item as the flame threatens to catch on your fingers, leaving the shrieks to fade back into the depths of the forest.

The mist closes in on you all, coating the trees with a fine sheen of dew, sticking to your robes and searing your sight. You had nearly forgotten about it, but you take out Ofelia's handkerchief before long, doing your best to cover your nose and the corners of your eyes. Fatigue wears on you, your head light, as the hours climb on- you're on edge to an extreme, practically jumping at the slightest crack in the twigs and foliage underfoot. It's exhausting to be so on guard, but you're relieved that you are, as Celegwen's voice rings out.

It's been hours. Her comments have grown gradually lighter as you all have proceeded forward, to the extent that it sounds as distant now as she does when in a trance.

"...up ahead," she murmurs, "is a clearing. Be on your guard. We are nearly there."

You nearly jump out of your skin as your eyes catch on a figure slumped against a nearby tree. A spear is dug deep into its emaciated chest, its ribs visible through the torn fabric around its skeleton.

Barricades surround it. Wood, lashed together and sharpened into spikes, jut out around the fallen bodies of several dead soldiers. The flesh is long gone from their forms, but their heraldry is still untouched by time. You do not recognize the emblems, though you assume they are for a long-forgotten King.

Your hand hasn't left your holy symbol in hours. Though your palm aches, you tense even further, squinting, to try and discern their shapes better. It looks as though there are three skeletons of fallen soldiers immediately ahead, and the clearing beyond looks to have even more. Many of them are wielding shields, maces, and a few even have swords. It's growing difficult to even see through the mist, as much as your eyes, throat and nose are burning- but you see them clearly.

(2/3)
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>>3918062
It occurs to you how odd the make of their armor and cloth is. You've never seen anything entirely like it before. The make looks excellent, far cleaner and of higher grade than anything the church has ever gifted to you. Some of the soldiers even have solid pieces of exotic metal adorning them, in hues you're entirely unfamiliar with. It's like they're from another time entirely.

"Stay back," you whisper. The command is directed mostly to Ray, but you pray that your companions will heed your caution as well.

>A) Insist that you all take a longer path around. You have a terrible feeling about this place. So long as you're concerned about the mist, your growing discomfort, and Celegwen's well-being, you'd rather not take any chances here. There's no telling what befell these soldiers, and you aren't about to find out.

>B) Have Ofelia scout ahead, while you keep an eye on Celegwen and Ray from the rear. Ask her to signal you if there's any danger at all. You don't trust this place. No matter how pressed you are for time, you want to exert caution, and she's best equipped for stealth.

>C) Stick together, and plunge ahead. You have the Gods- and you are not afraid of a few corpses. See if any of them have any weapons or shields suited to you, while you're at it. Your mission here is peaceful, but you could use something less divine to hold onto. You'd rather see what lies ahead with your own eyes and your friends by your side.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3918069
>>A) Insist that you all take a longer path around. You have a terrible feeling about this place. So long as you're concerned about the mist, your growing discomfort, and Celegwen's well-being, you'd rather not take any chances here. There's no telling what befell these soldiers, and you aren't about to find out
>>
>>3918069
>A) Insist that you all take a longer path around. You have a terrible feeling about this place. So long as you're concerned about the mist, your growing discomfort, and Celegwen's well-being, you'd rather not take any chances here. There's no telling what befell these soldiers, and you aren't about to find out
Stay safe. Stay alert.
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>>3918088
>>3918116
Homework's finished! Staying safe and alert. Writing.
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>>3918283
All of your companions look to you as you tense. You eye the edge of the clearing with enormous hesitation. Your knuckles are white against your holy symbol, looking around for any alternative paths. The darkness and mist shrouds the denser forest completely, but it seems like a far safer option.

"I have a terrible feeling about this place. We need to stay safe. ...let's go around."

Celegwen shrugs her shoulders, clearly not minding, but Ofelia balks.

"Are ya' sure? Seriously? I don't mind goin' ahead-"

"I couldn't be more certain. We need to stay alert. Something killed these men, and I don't intend to find out what. ...not if we can help it."

Celegwen looks over her shoulder to you both, obviously disoriented from the liquor in the air. Her smile is whimsical, her eyes misty. She shows no sign of exhaustion from marching for nearly a day, but there is something decidedly off color about her. She looks down at the halfling, no condescension in her voice, but her words rub you the wrong way. "The path around is far more difficult. Shall we have Ofelia go forth on Ray now, or would you prefer a ride on my shoulders...?"

Ofelia punches her softly on the side of her leg. You can't help but notice how red her eyes are, and wonder if yours look just as irritated. "Shuddap. I'll be fine. ...can't say the same 'bout you, though. Fuckin' lush. You sure you even know where we're goin'?"

"Of course," the elf beams. "This way."

"...Ray. Just a bit further, boy. Come on."

Cutting deeper into the woods still, you can't help but look back at the edge of the clearing as you all hook sharply away from it. The corpses of the fallen soldiers linger in your mind for some time after you leave the barricades and fallen men behind. It's hard to not think of the clergy, of Father Edmund.

You shake your head and catch up to your companions.

It's rough going. You have to literally pick up Ofelia from time to time, to help her over the far denser underbrush. She makes a huge fuss about it at first, but after an hour or so of plunging through the harsh terrain, she stops complaining, and seems relieved for the hand. Ray, as always, is valiant, keeping up with you without complaint. You're mildly disturbed by how quiet he's been, but it's safe to assume he's simply tired as well. You all have been marching for hours without rest, food or water.

The fog is unbearably thick. There are no pangs of hunger or thirst, as always, that accompany your excursion- but you're unable to avoid noticing the inebriation taking hold of you. The harsh physical demand of picking through the rougher course only seems to aggravate the building haze.

(1/2)
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>>3918337
Despite the gloom, Celegwen fearlessly keeps up the pace, leading you all deftly through the vines and moss as if it were second nature to her. Her voice is weightless as she looks behind to you all for what seems like the hundredth time. "The Verdant Dominion's woods are much more untamed. This demon could stand to learn a thing or two of the wilds-!"

Ofelia groans, picking a huge bramble out of her hair. "Don't encourage the bastard-! What if he can hear us? Seriously," she looks up to you, the exhaustion on her face evident. "I'm goin' to kill her when we get out of here, Richard."

It's hard to not at least try to defend her, though your patience is wearing thin as well. "She means well."

Looking ahead to the elf, you find yourself actually slowing down. Your breath is heavy, a flush in your face from more than the excursion. The mist is suffocating, heavy and cloying in the air. It seems to hang most thickly over a break in the treeline, where a sharply protruding series of stones scrapes against the woods. "Stop. Everyone."

Longing for a shield, you take a few steps ahead, pushing through the thick vines and trees to move past your allies. Ray obediently stays in place, but Ofelia and Celegwen both start. The elf in particular seems unaware of any imminent threat. "Is something the matter, Father?"

Gritting your teeth, you squint through the darkness. The edges of your vision are hazy, but you can discern the opening of a cave just ahead. It's less than a stone's throw from you all. "Is this it, then, Celegwen? The center of the woods?"

Blissfully, she beams at you. "Certainly. See, Ofelia, I knew where I was going-"

The halfling punches her again. "Yeah, and you nearly walked us straight into it. You know I'm too tired to be much use, you nut job."

As you're all talking, you strain your ears, trying to pick up anything on the outskirts of the woods. Over the women's bickering, you almost miss it, but certainly enough- there's a soft rustling in the bushes ahead.

Ray isn't growling, but your pulse skyrockets. It might be your lowered inhibitions, but you dive to the side, grabbing onto Ofelia and Celegwen. "Get down-!"

Both women let out a shout, as you all tumble into the dense underbrush. Ray dives right after you all without hesitation. Wide-eyed and panicked, you clutch onto your holy symbol, putting yourself in front of everyone.

A loud thunk announces something striking one of the trees, past the underbrush.

The rustling stops completely.

"Father, you could have told us to simply get down-"

"What gives-"

Disheveled brown hair peeks out from the underbrush as you dare to glance out at whatever threatened you all. You don't pay any mind to Ofelia's and Celegwen's complaints as your eye catches on something, pierced into a tree where you were standing seconds before. You bow your head for a moment, thanking your Goddess for Her protection.

(Underestimated, 2/3)
>>
>>3918345
"...the Gods are Merciful."

It's an arrow, stuck so deeply into the wood you couldn't imagine pulling it loose. A letter is tied onto it with an ancient black ribbon.

>A) It might be a trap. Leave it alone, and proceed towards the cave with the utmost caution. Keep ahead, and break off a tree branch as a makeshift shield, if you need to. You need to protect your friends, no matter the danger.

>B) Ask Ofelia if she can discern anything about the letter. She may be tired, but this is only a few feet away. She's proven herself far more adept with this sort of thing than anyone else among you, and this might be a message. Trust her abilities.

>C) Pray to Spirit for Her wisdom. If this demon is powerful enough to manipulate an entire forest, you aren't about to enter its lair blindly. Your friends will have to understand- and you are not about to invoke Mercy again so quickly.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3918352
>>B) Ask Ofelia if she can discern anything about the letter. She may be tired, but this is only a few feet away. She's proven herself far more adept with this sort of thing than anyone else among you, and this might be a message. Trust her abilities.
>>
>>3918352
>B) Ask Ofelia if she can discern anything about the letter. She may be tired, but this is only a few feet away. She's proven herself far more adept with this sort of thing than anyone else among you, and this might be a message. Trust her abilities.
She's the rogue, this is her job.
>>
>B) Ask Ofelia if she can discern anything about the letter. She may be tired, but this is only a few feet away. She's proven herself far more adept with this sort of thing than anyone else among you, and this might be a message. Trust her abilities.

Ignoring this is a bad idea, invoking anyone is a bad idea.
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>>3918359
>>3918377
>>3918410
Fuck yeah let's keep this ball rolling. Locking the vote, writing now.
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>>3918419
A simple look to Ofelia is all it takes for her to understand the situation. She makes a point of shoving Celegwen down properly into the underbrush as she rises. The elf barely protests, and the smaller woman speaks over her regardless.

"I'm goin', I'm goin'. You all sit tight. 'Specially you, knife ears."

You can't help but notice how endearing all of the leaves caught in her hair looks, as she cautiously sneaks through the underbrush. She must have caught you watching her as she glances back to you all, though she doesn't acknowledge it.

"...seriously, stay back."

Crouching in front of Ray and Celegwen, it's impossible to not peek out from behind the bushes and trees to keep an eye on your friend. Though she approaches the arrow with extreme caution, and you don't doubt her skill for a moment, it's hard to not worry for her safety.

To your relief, she doesn't immediately touch the item. Ofelia darts behind a few nearby trees, checking the surrounding area and, to your surprise, removes several strands of wire from across the branches. It's difficult to see the angle she comes up behind the arrow from, as only a branch and a strand of the thread is visible from her carefully extended hands. She seems completely covered as she hooks around the item, but you still let out a shout as something explodes forth from the tree and arrow within it.

"Ofelia!"

Ray makes a sound for the first time in hours, barking at the sudden popping noise. You hold him down, looking around for the halfling as a faint afterimage of light, paint and something colorful hangs in the air. The little strips of paper dance for a moment, painting an explicit message that is not nearly as festive as its presentation.

FUCK OFF

Ofelia comes out from hiding, looking extremely irritated. The arrow is completely gone, a wall of paint and color smeared along the tree where it was a few seconds ago. She pulls on her gloves, picking the letter gingerly off the floor. Confusion is written all over her face as she looks to it, followed swiftly by intense anger. She calls out to you with abject hatred in her voice.

"It's safe. ...er, much as it can be. You're not gonna' like this, Richard, but you'd better come take a look. It's for you."

With building dread, you pick yourself up out, calling Ray to your side. Celegwen blissfully comes after you, admiring the fallen slips of colorful paper. They rested on the forest floor in the exact same pattern as they exploded into the air in. You kick your foot across the message, frowning as you make the letters unintelligible.

Ofelia holds the letter firmly out to you, looking like she scarcely wants to touch it. You pick up the paper and immediately understand her revulsion.

It's the rudest thing you've read in your entire life.

(1/2)
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>>3918533
"I would rather not read it aloud," you murmur, looking over the parchment. You feel more than a little sick, and it's not just from the liquor hanging in the air.

To the shameless peasants and perverted arsonist who dares to enter my domain,
Unsolicited, unannounced, and entirely unwelcome,
To the forsaken bastard who decided to turn his nose up at my generosity, snubbing my enchantments and thinking himself better than I,
To the bitches who presume to upset my gardening and desecrate the canopy of my woods,
To "Father" Anscham, though I highly doubt you deserve the fucking title,


You can't help but frown at the expletive being underlined multiple times, the "i" dotted with a heart, and your name literally spit on. You hold the letter at further length.

You're not welcome here. Idonea can mind her own fucking business. She asked me to be courteous- here's your fucking courtesy. Get out. I don't want any help a bunch of degenerates like you could give. I'm not being a hypocrite- you're that abhorrent.

-Lord Yech, the Disgusted.

P.S. Really don't appreciate what you did in front of Freya and the rest of the girls. Try that shit here and I'll drape your intestines over every square mile of this place. See your whore try and "bless" that.

Shame and fury sticks to you, hot and fast. You tear up the parchment, crumpling the letter in your hands. You glance to Ofelia, wondering just how much she read.

She doesn't look crestfallen. She also looks pissed. The rogue's eyes glint with something extremely sinister, as she looks to the cave beyond. "No one- no one speaks to you that way. We oughta' show this asshole what for."

You grimace, clenching the letter even more tightly. Celegwen, despite her inebriation, seems to pick up instantly on what's transpired. She tightens her grip on her staff, looking fairly irate as well, but she shows far more restraint. She doesn't say anything, looking to you expectantly.

(Options in next post)
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>>3918542
>A) You're going to be the better person. This is a demon. You didn't expect this to be easy. Don't sneak up on Yech- see if Ofelia can scout ahead and announce that you're coming. This demon called himself a Lord. He might appreciate some formality and courtesy in return for... well, everything. You can prove that you're worthy of your station just fine without falling for a demon's games.

>B) You've been badly bullied before, but this is something else. You won't stand for this kind of abuse, and you're unbelievably pissed. March up to the cave and demand that Yech see you. Don't punch him just yet- but at least try and assert yourself. You've made a career out of killing demons. You're not about to bend over backwards to accommodate one, no matter how powerful they may be.

>C) Let your feelings be a little hurt. You're pretty ashamed of your behavior as well. Demons may have no place judging a man- but you're pretty hard on yourself as it is. See if Celegwen and Ofelia have any suggestions on how to win over this demon, when he seems dead-set on hating you and everyone you're with. You certainly have no idea how you're going to show him Mercy when you can't even do the same for yourself.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3918545
>>A) You're going to be the better person. This is a demon. You didn't expect this to be easy. Don't sneak up on Yech- see if Ofelia can scout ahead and announce that you're coming. This demon called himself a Lord. He might appreciate some formality and courtesy in return for... well, everything. You can prove that you're worthy of your station just fine without falling for a demon's games.
>>
Tons of updates today, going to let this one sit overnight and get some rest. You guys are stellar. I'll be back tomorrow.
>>
>>3918751
Seeya soon! Getting tense!
>>
>>3918545
>A) You're going to be the better person. This is a demon. You didn't expect this to be easy. Don't sneak up on Yech- see if Ofelia can scout ahead and announce that you're coming. This demon called himself a Lord. He might appreciate some formality and courtesy in return for... well, everything. You can prove that you're worthy of your station just fine without falling for a demon's games.

>>3918533
>FUCK OFF
>>3918542
>that entire letter
He's literally an edgy big bro demon in his edgecave in the middle of edgewoods with edgevodka raining from the sky.
And wow, every single one of them is gonna be mad at Richard that he did that with Mercy right in front of them, aren't they? Maximum seethe.
>>
>>3918906
Absolute maximum over-seethe.

Going to make some breakfast, vote is open until I get back.
>>
>>3918542
>>A) You're going to be the better person. This is a demon. You didn't expect this to be easy. Don't sneak up on Yech- see if Ofelia can scout ahead and announce that you're coming. This demon called himself a Lord. He might appreciate some formality and courtesy in return for... well, everything. You can prove that you're worthy of your station just fine without falling for a demon's games.
Also pull out some parchment if we have any and pen him an apology letter, after we are done stab it into a tree with one of ofelias knives.This thing takes itself for a lord so using a very apologetic tone would help feed its ego and get it to chill the fuck out.
>>
>>3919017
"To The Lord Yech,
I, Richard Anscham, on beahalf of Ofelia Banks, and Celegwen apologize for our rude intrusion into your territory, let it be known that your sentiment toward Idonea and the minding of her own bussiness is reciprocated by me and my companions.
I also want for it to be crystal clear that our intention was never to disturb our harm, alas, the impossibly long trek here has made us weary and impolite, our bodies are on edge and overly sensitive to the gifts you have graciously offered us, Ofelia knows her spirits well and im sure you could have plenty to discuss, as for Celegwen, her home land is one of impressive verdancy, aptly named too, i hope you could draw some inspiration from her memories as a trade for the damage we have caused. I know you can find it in your heart to understand, and if not forgive us, at least grant us an audience.

-Richard Anscham "
>>
>>3918545
>B

Square up bro. I'll have sex in front of as many kids as I want. Still better than the Catholics!
>>
>>3919037
Appreciate the enthusiasm but

>>3918606
>>3918906
>>3919017
>>3919022
We'll be going with the majority on this one. Locking the vote, writing now.
>>
>>3919043
Yech's behavior has you reminded more of a misbehaved teenager than a Lord. You know you don't need to justify yourself to anyone. Not only have you been traveling for hours without rest, in the lair of a demon, but you've merely been trying to protect yourself and your friends. Although you're not surprised that the children of the archdemon are offended by your behavior, you feel like you're far from overstepping your boundaries.

There's no shame in invoking the Gods.

Still, you pull off your backpack and start fishing around for some parchment. Everything is bent and beaten, but fortunately your journal, paper and ink seem to have survived the fall.

Your friends look to you with curiosity, as you rapidly fill a pen and scratch out a response. Your handwriting wavers slightly, your limbs heavy, your eyes stinging from the constant haze of liquor. It takes a bit longer than usual, but the neat script manages to fill the page in a matter of minutes.

Lord Yech,

I apologize for our intrusion into your territory. Let it be known that your sentiments towards Idonea are reciprocated in full. I speak not only on my own behalf, but for Ofelia Banks and Celegwen, as well. Your business is your own.

I must stress that we never intended to disturb or harm your domain. The trek here has worn on my manners, and I must profess to being overtly sensitive to the gifts you have offered. Ofelia has a far greater tolerance for spirits, and possesses a wealth of knowledge regarding them. I hope you two could discuss them with more vigor. Likewise, I hope you could draw inspiration from Celegwen, as her home land is one of impressive verdancy. She shares a love of all things green- perhaps her memories could offer some respite from the damage we have caused.

I do not expect you to forgive us so quickly for these transgressions, but if you cannot find it in you to understand, please: at least permit us an audience.

-Father Richard Anscham


While the ink dries, you try to grab Ofelia's attention. "Ofelia, if it isn't too much to ask-"

Her blue eyes snap up to you, lanced with red, fury weaving between the haze that you know must be on all of you by now. She softens her look as your eyes meet hers for a moment. "Can I read that?"

You nod, offering the letter forward. "The demon called himself a Lord. He may have been one in life, or he may regard his position in the hierarchy with more weight than most. ...either way, I'd rather extend some courtesy."

Your voice drops to a murmur as you say mostly to yourself, "I'd rather be a better person."

The halfling's face falls as she rolls up the letter, looking to you with no small amount of distaste. "Don't say I never did nothin' for ya', Richard. Suppose you want me to go introduce us?"

(1/3)
>>
>>3919104
Looking to Celegwen, who is entirely preoccupied with admiring a nearby outcropping of foliage, you can't help but sigh. "If you could. ...please, be careful. I saw you disarm a few trip wires already. This demon obviously did not want to be disturbed. If there's any trouble, call for me."

With a firm motion, Ofelia stashes the letter and swipes her cloak back off of Celegwen. The elf scarcely responds, blinking at you both.

"Sorry Gwen, gonna need this. Sit tight. I'll try to not take too long."

The elf is even more quiet than usual, offering not much more than a smile and a wave. You can't help but notice how red the tips of her ears and whites of her eyes have become. It was much more difficult to discern while she was leading you all, but a sick feeling seizes you as Ofelia turns to leave.

You're left with Ray and Celegwen in a matter of moments, the halfling's footsteps nearly impossible to hear as she slinks off towards the stone up ahead.

A very large part of you wants to offer a cloak or something else to Celegwen to help cover herself, but all you have is the handkerchief Ofelia gave you earlier, and your robes. The elf blinks, obliviously, as you hold out the small slip of fabric towards her.

To your extreme dismay, a familiar spasm seizes your arm as you hold it out. It's not exhaustion. The liquor is getting to you.

"Here," you murmur, holding your arm steady and offering the cloth out again to Celegwen. "Try to cover your face, at least."

She looks to you with a huge smile, taking the fabric and holding it over her nose and mouth. Though her voice is muffled, you can make out what she's saying without effort. The woods are unbearably silent, save for Ray's panting beside you. "Your eyes are so red, Father, I can barely see the sage."

You can't help but dart your eyes away, looking towards the cave beyond. It's so dark on the outskirts that you can't fathom seeing anything inside, and your eyes are burning intensely. You don't reply to Celegwen, kneeling down to try and look after Ray instead.

The mastiff seems completely fine. Exhausted, and probably hungry- but the haze seems to be having no effect on him.

You balk for a moment, trying to make sense of this.

The Gods reserve their blessings for humanity- does this demon not care for animals, either?

"Is something wrong, Father...?" Celegwen muses, her voice drifting away from you as she speaks.

"No," you murmur, "it's nothing. ...good boy, Ray."

Ofelia seems to be taking an exceptional amount of time getting back to you all. You don't question her ability, but your lowered inhibitions have your neuroticism peaking. It's hard not to wonder if she's gotten lost, or hurt, or if she even wants to come back. Unable to stand still, you pace, permitting Ray to tail behind you as you mull over whether or not you should have all stuck together. The spasms in your neglected and waifish body rise with the motion, but you can't bear to sit idly by.

(2/3)
>>
>>3919105
Just when the wait feels like it's become unbearable, Ofelia reappears. Silent, as always, she seemingly materializes out of the darkness next to you. You practically jump out of your skin, taking a step back with a hand over your heart and holy symbol.

She lets out a slight laugh. "Sorry, Richard- didn't mean to scare ya'. Wasn't sure if there was gonna be anythin' else out here. This guy is one paranoid customer, couldn't even count how many traps he'd left."

"Are you- are you alright?" You ask, your heart rate decreasing only slightly. You can't help but notice more slips of colorful paper stuck to the halfling's clothes and hair.

Ofelia gives you a frown. "I'm fine. This demon is a real fuckin' character- had me yell yer damn note to him, said he didn't want to look at me. But he wants to see you. ...you just say the word, Richard, I'll-"

The gesture the rogue makes almost elicits a laugh from you. It's so violent that you can't help but pull at the collar of your robes, looking down to her with appreciation. "Thank you, Ofelia. Hopefully that won't be necessary."

With an entirely clumsy gesture, the halfling sweeps off her cloak and loosely fastens it back around Celegwen- who seems to be bordering on a trance. Despite their size difference, Ofelia still gets next to her friend and manages to help shoulder her. It's comical, but you don't dare make fun of the attempt to help.

"We'd better get going. Gwen's a tough cookie, but she's not gonna be of much use at this rate."

"You said that he didn't want to see you...?"

"Yeah, I don't give a shit. We're stickin' together- and at this point I'm wonderin' if this asshole even has any other drinks. Come on."

>These options are mutually exclusive. Majority vote will decide.

>A) Insist that Ofelia stay outside with Celegwen. This demon is obviously temperamental, and you don't want to hurt your chances by immediately disregarding his request. Your friends could probably use the rest, anyways.
>1) Have Ray guard them both. You don't know how long this will take.
>2) Take Ray with you. You know you're never truly alone, but you'd feel better with his company.

>B) Don't argue, and have the women come with you. You are all stronger together. If things go south, you would rather have your friends by your side.
>>
>>3919107
>>2) Take Ray with you. You know you're never truly alone, but you'd feel better with his company
He doesnt seem to care much about animals, an even split guarantees to keep both parties safe, finding a slight loophole like this might make him treat us with more respect and not a total pushover
>>
>>3919107
>>2) Take Ray with you. You know you're never truly alone, but you'd feel better with his company.
>>
>>3919121
>>3919219
Going to lock this a little early while I make some coffee. Will write soon.

Going to be able to update pretty frequently today but things might taper back off to 1-2 posts a day for the rest of the week. Really appreciate you guys.
>>
>>3919300
Coffee acquired, chores done, writing now.
>>
>>3919349
It's difficult, but you step in front of Ofelia. "No."

"No?" She looks up to you with a fair amount of annoyance.

"Stay here, and keep an eye on Celegwen. This demon is obviously temperamental. I can't risk you both getting hurt... or jeopardizing the mission. He explicitly said he didn't wish to see you, did he not?"

The sorceress looks to you with a gloss over her eyes, raw as they are. She's completely out of it. Ofelia glances up to her, shaking her head. It's immediately evident that Ofelia realizes how right you are, easing her friend back onto the forest floor. There's a heavy sigh and a heave of her small shoulders.

"I hate to say it, but yer probably right. I can barely keep goin' as it is... and she's not gonna be much help." The halfling settles down next to Celegwen, looking up to you with worry. "Don't you dare get hurt. ...and hurry back, okay? I cleared a straight path through the traps. You'll see 'em from a mile away. Even Ray should be alright if you keep him near ya'."

"I won't leave you for long. Get some rest, and please- stay safe. Find me if anything happens," you clench your hands over your holy symbol, looking down for a moment. "May the Gods watch over you both. ...here, Ray. Stay close, boy."

A glance behind you as you turn to leave is soul-crushing in its brevity. The forest is dark and clouded. The silhouette of Ofelia and Celegwen waiting for you fades from sight all too quickly.

You set out, carefully stepping through the dense wood and underbrush. Ray stays right at your heels, panting hard from the exertion of the day. Your breath matches his, heavy from the oppressive mist and cloying alcohol. Though your vision swims, you can clearly see a pattern on the forest floor.

Ofelia seems to have disarmed a colossal amount of traps. Confetti and wire is haphazardly strung about the floor in a parody of a bridge leading up to the cavern's entrance. You keep to the cleared floor, wondering how tedious it must have been to have set off or disarmed hundreds of feet of paint and explosives. There are strewn javelins, spears, arrows and spiked wood protruding on the outskirts of your vision- and you strongly suspect the soldiers you'd seen previously met their fate from something similar.

"Stay close, boy. Come on."

The opening to the cave looms out, mist obscuring your view. Your voice rings out. You're no coward.

"Lord Yech! I have requested an audience with you. It's Richard- Richard Anscham. I come alone, save for my pet dog."

A cloying, decrepit and ancient voice answers you back, from the darkness and looming mist. His accent is impossible to place, but sarcasm and disdain drips from every word.

"How appropriate. You brought another mutt. Fine. Come in. Let's get this over with."

Head tilting, desperately wishing you had your shield, you enter the lair of the demon lord.

(1/2)
>>
>>3919415
The mist almost seems to intensify as you step inside. Ray's growling is immediate. You don't see the source of his concern at first, your eyes falling on countless barrels of liquor stacked to an impossibly high ceiling. Stairs wrap around the walls, stretching up towards the ceiling. A sense of familiarity takes you. The cavern is moist, dew clinging to the walls and floor. It's slick as your scuffed shoes take a few more hesitant steps forward, scanning the cave for the source of your dog's distress.

Near the back wall, adjacent to several stacks of plants and decaying wine bottles is a man- or rather, was a man. The body looks to be the corpse of an ancient lord, yet the demon's face is entirely decayed. You're acutely reminded of the shrouded demon's skull, yet this lord is not covered in blood. He's dripping in wine, his cloak stained with the same hue. He's utterly still, so still that you mistook him for another corpse in the ruins. Webs cling to his frame, as if he hasn't moved in an age.

There's movement, and a death rattle.

Lord Yech leans forward, the empty sockets of his skull glaring at your own emaciated and sunken eyes with more disgust than you ever thought a creature could convey. As he looks up to you, you can't help but hold onto your holy symbol.

"Ray. Stay. Stay, boy."

The demon lord's gaze cuts into your soul. His voice croaks out, as hollow and wavering as the mist around you both. "What the fuck do you want with me?"

>A) You honestly have no idea what you're doing. Explain that you're entirely uncertain what Idonea's request might entail. Ask Yech in turn what's troubling him. Better to let him speak than to make matters worse.

>B) Apologize formally for burning Yech's woods and for the incident in the abyss. A letter is one thing, but this demon doesn't seem hostile. Verbally abusive, yes, but not hostile. If anything, he seems lazy. Try to get on his good side before you get any further.

>C) You're still pissed. Confront Yech about his attitude towards you, and insist that you're only here on behalf of Idonea. ...which you're entirely uncomfortable with, and would rather not deal with. See if you can get this over with quickly. You've wasted an enormous amount of time just getting here.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3919420
>C

This big boozer wants to complain about other people? 50 bucks says the one he's most disgusted with is himself.
>>
>>3919420
>>B) Apologize formally for burning Yech's woods and for the incident in the abyss. A letter is one thing, but this demon doesn't seem hostile. Verbally abusive, yes, but not hostile. If anything, he seems lazy. Try to get on his good side before you get any further.
>>
>>3919420
>A) You honestly have no idea what you're doing. Explain that you're entirely uncertain what Idonea's request might entail. Ask Yech in turn what's troubling him. Better to let him speak than to make matters worse.

Don't think we'll be able to get on his good side since he seems like an all around bastard - might as well be upfront with him.
>>
>>3919425
>>3919463
>>3919529
Got some mildly conflicting choices here. Going to leave this vote open for a bit, you guys feel free to discuss how you'd like to approach this dude. If there's no consensus I'll find a way to work this together.
>>
>>3919420
>B) Apologize formally for burning Yech's woods and for the incident in the abyss. A letter is one thing, but this demon doesn't seem hostile. Verbally abusive, yes, but not hostile. If anything, he seems lazy. Try to get on his good side before you get any further.
I want to do this first before we get straight to the heart of the matter. Displays and gestures go a long way with things like this.
Richard should still keep this in mind for when the talk turns to the task at hand >>3919425
>the one he's most disgusted with is himself
>>
I feel like at one point, Richard really needs to take a big gulp of Yech's finest alcohol. As a way to get on the same level as him, of course, and to help the giving of Mercy work out.
>>
Going to make some dinner and then I'll knock out one more update for the night. Vote is still open until I get back.
>>
>>3919425
>>3919463
>>3919529
>>3919708
>>3919714
Wew, this is gonna be interesting. Locking the vote, writing now.
>>
>>3920031
"I would like to apologize. Formally. ...my companion, Ofelia, informed me that she read my correspondence back to you-"

"Blow it out your ass. You're sorrier in person than you even were on paper. I knew this was going to be a joke, but seriously? You think-"

Ray's growling intensifies as the demon slowly leans back, rolling his head around to glare at you even more intensely. The wine dripping off of him seems to cling to his voice, the sour vineyard hanging in the air, sticking to the back of your throat. His words reek of uninhibited revulsion.

"-you seriously want me to believe that you're sorry for anything you did? You came in here to get in good with Idonea. That's fine, she can mind her own fucking business- but you have the nerve- the fucking audacity to try and appease me?"

For the first time since you can remember, you take your hand off of your holy symbol. The spasm in your arms, back and legs is irritating, but you hold your ground, looking firmly at the demon. His soaking, hateful frame bristles under the scrutiny. You try and soften your expression, aware that your face is hard, the lines under your eyes are deep, and that you likely look entirely disheveled. At the very least, you can soften your voice, and it comes out in its usual, timid tone.

"I would like to at least try. ...Ray, down, boy. Sit. Good boy. Quiet. Listen- Lord Yech-"

The demon rudely groans, lolling his head back further. He sweeps an overturned chalice from the floor, pouring its contents into his outstretched, skeletal mouth and acting as if he isn't listening at all. The wine soaks into his chest, pouring through what you assume to be a decayed cavity, soaking his fine attire. You pay no heed to the immature outburst.

"To be frank- I meant no offense. I mean no offense. I don't even know what Idonea intends to have me do. You clearly deserve my honesty, and I do not intend to mince my words or lead you to believe for a second-"

You catch the anger tilting into your voice, your outrage at the situation you find yourself in. It's probably the alcohol relaxing you, easing your constant repression. "I'm just as furious with her request as you are. I want to leave this place. I want to go home. I hate these ruins- I can't stand it down here, I can't stand working with demons, and honestly, I don't care for the way you've disregarded every attempt I've made at showing you some courtesy."

That got his attention. Yech's head lolls forward, making a grotesque show of running the wine out and over his open mouth as he stares back at you. He swallows, wipes his jaw- and throws his goblet at you.

(1/3)
>>
>>3920119
You dodge to the side. It was a weak throw, obviously meant to annoy and not harm. Despite your exhaustion, you stay on your feet, glaring back at the demon. "You mock me for taking a title, yet you scarcely honor your own. Why do you humor me? Why would a demon not immediately try and kill a man? Why would you tolerate my presence in your domain, when you clearly have the power to kill me at any time?"

Lord Yech stands- but his motions are sluggish. There's no rage in his limbs, no urgency in his motions. Ray is lying next to you as you've commanded, trying to keep quiet, but he can't help growling as the demon lord rises from his throne. You bristle, expecting him to attack, but Yech simply walks to the other side of the cave.

You continue as he walks away from you.

"I'm willing to bet that the one you're most disgusted with is yourself."

He slumps down next to an enormous keg, fishing around in his pockets for something as he looks up to you.

"I'm bored."

You repeat his words with disbelief and no small measure of disdain. "...you're bored."

"Did I fucking stutter?"

"No-"

"Good. Shut the fuck up and get over here. ...didn't want those broads interfering. Keep your dog back, too. Probably wants my fucking bones."

Eyeing the demon with extreme hesitation, you command Ray to stay put, and cautiously step across the cave. You stay standing, looking down at the sluggish, wavering figure before you. The drenched and drunken form would look pathetic, were it not for the knowledge of how much power he commanded.

"I'll eat my cape before I call you Father. Richard, was it?"

"Yes."

"Malimos has not shut the fuck up about you. It's been nearly a month. I'm so sick of it- I swore I'd kill you the second I laid eyes on you. But you might be alright. I'll kill him instead."

The demon lays his head back against one of the kegs, raising a hand over the floor of the cave. From the soil rises a pair of small glasses, seemingly out of thin air. Recalling Celegwen mentioning how strenuous it is to conjure anything, you can't help but wonder what the extent of this demon's ability is. He wordlessly fills the glasses from the spigot. An intensely dark and smoky blend hits you, even from several feet away.

"I don't want you here. I don't want anyone here. I just want some fucking peace. I want to die down here, Richard- fuck, you probably do too- and I don't want Idonea's fucking pity. Take this," he thrusts one of the glasses at you, spilling a healthy amount off onto the floor. You practically expect acid, but it harmlessly falls to the stone.

Arm twitching, you hold it steady with your free hand as you take the glass from the demon.

"I bet you get a lot of it. Pity. Just look at you. Hyped up to be some kinda monster and you're just an angsty looking bundle of scars and repression, huh? Can't even stay still- twitchy little bastard- drink the goddamn thing, don't just smell it-"

(2/3)
>>
>>3920120
You almost feel like you should say something. The peat and smoke coming from the whiskey in your hands puts Ofelia's best to absolute shame. Trusting that this demon genuinely doesn't want to kill you, and craving to get out of his presence as soon as possible, you frown and take a sip of the drink.

There's little burn. The liquid is impossibly smooth, full-bodied, and lingers in your mouth long after you've swallowed.

It's hard to not comment on the demon's words, or his excellent taste in drinks. "I would be lying if I didn't agree with everything you've said. ...and this is excellent. Thank you. I didn't mean to reject your gift previously- I simply have a very low tolerance, and wanted my wits about me when we met."

Another groan. "Stop brown nosing. Stop it. I liked you better when you were pissed."

"...fine. I don't get much in the way of pity, Yech. I don't particularly care for Idonea's treatment of you or her other children, either, if I'm to be perfectly honest."

"There's a reason she's down here, but I'm not gonna' get into it. Look- you wanted to bet on me? Let's fucking bet."

"What-?"

The demon stops fishing around in his pocket, pulling out a pair of dice. They're stunning, carved out of solid bone and studded with gold.

"You show me a good time, and I'll tell Idonea to piss off. We'll bet on it. You win, and I'll let you all get out of here. No fuss, I get a break from the tedium, you get a few drinks."

You're immediately uncomfortable. Gambling is strictly forbidden by the Church of Mercy. ...and that comment about Idonea has your skin crawling.

You take another sip of the whiskey.

"What if I were to lose?"

"You won't. We'll play 'til you win. ...you're on a bit of a time limit, aren't you?"

A sinister tone creeps into the demon's voice that you are entirely not fond of.

"I am."

"And you've already been down here for a day and a half, eh?"

"...by my best estimates, yes."

"Well. I'd appreciate the company. You get to drink, we have a good time- and you get along on your merry way. Sounds fair?"

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3920122
>A) Stop. What was that comment about Idonea? You're not playing anything until the demon elaborates further. He might be dodging the question, and be as temperamental as a teenage boy, but you need answers.

>B) There's no conceivable way you can disobey the tenets of your church, make a deal with a demon, and get extraordinarily drunk all in the same night. Refuse Yech's offer. You have something better in mind. (Write-in what other way you could possibly entertain him with.)

>C) Ask what rules he'd like to play by, at least. This could be an incredibly easy way to get out of his domain, and your friends are waiting. You're the most devout person you know- surely a few games couldn't hurt. You have noble intentions.

>D) Don't hesitate. Agree to gamble with Yech, and keep the drinks coming. You're in this to get the Relic from an archdemon, not to hesitate at the first sign of trouble. He might appreciate your boldness. His lips are loose, too. Ask some more questions while you're at it.

>E) Write-in.
>>
>>3920124
>D
>>
>>3920124
>D) Don't hesitate. Agree to gamble with Yech, and keep the drinks coming. You're in this to get the Relic from an archdemon, not to hesitate at the first sign of trouble. He might appreciate your boldness. His lips are loose, too. Ask some more questions while you're at it.
So let's tell him a bit about Richard's past, a la the drinking with Ofelia and Gwen, and then ask about himself.
>>
>>3920124
>>D) Don't hesitate. Agree to gamble with Yech, and keep the drinks coming. You're in this to get the Relic from an archdemon, not to hesitate at the first sign of trouble. He might appreciate your boldness. His lips are loose, too. Ask some more questions while you're at it.
>>
>>3920124
>D

We're maybe a little too close to Mercy right now. Maybe if we do this she'll stop molesting us. Slightly worried that we'll never win the gamble and thus be trapped until starving but w/e.
>>
>>3920251
>>3920326
>>3920353
>>3920505
Totally unanimous, surprising. Excellent though. Just finishing having breakfast and I'll get to writing. Vote is locked.
>>
>>3920662
Allllright. I'm stuck at home all day, which means I can update quite a bit if we keep some votes rolling in. Writing now!
>>
>>3920711
"Alright."

You don't even look at the demon as you casually agree to his terms, admiring his lair as you wait for his response.

A long pause hangs in the air, as Yech seems to be entirely stunned by your reply. You can't help but smirk at his surprise. Though an itching, cloying, nagging fear at the back of your mind tells you that this is likely just a ploy to waste your time, you don't want to give Yech an inch. It's obvious that he's only going to respect you so long as you assert yourself. You have no problem fighting with demons.

I love Mercy with every part of me, but I could stand to loosen up a little. She's been all over me, through me-
What am I thinking?
How strong is this drink?

The demon laughs with a wet, sickly and altogether depraved sort of satisfaction. "Just like that?! So much for a man of the cloth."

You roll back your cloth, the sleeves frayed as they are, and slide down next to the demon lord. Looking straight at him, you knock back the rest of the whiskey. It's a lot easier to maintain eye contact with creatures who look remarkably worse off than you do. He returns your gaze, shocked and obviously pleased.

You'll play his game, alright. The drink is smooth, and his disbelief even more satisfying as you feel your inhibitions entirely escaping you.

"I'm not as green as you might think, Yech. Don't get the wrong idea about me- I'll do whatever I need for Mercy. ...I mean to say- I'm light but- this is hardly my first time drinking."

The demon is still laughing to himself, seemingly even more relaxed as he pours you another glass. Through his bone and fully revealed teeth, there's visible amusement intermingling with his constant disgust. You don't mind humoring him, nursing the glass as you both speak. It's delicious. It could be that you can't remember the last time you ate or drank anything of substance, but this is almost too easy.

Mercy, for all his talk- is he as desperate as I am for some company?

"I doubt you paid any attention to my note, but I had mentioned Ofelia had an eye for spirits as well-"

"Is that the tall bitch with the nice rack or the short one who decided to fucking stab my garden?"

"...she's the short one."

"Why should I give a shit?"

"...her family seems to be in the business of this sort of thing. You should have given her a chance. She- she knows her way around liquor. And how to look after her friends."

Yech looks at you with no small measure of disgust. "Right. Sure. I'm assuming that's how you're in such fine shape, eh? These babes can't even feed you. You'd probably better slow down if we're going to last more than an hour-"

The demon lord looks to your glass, back to you, and over your spindly limbs.

"You seriously drink?"

"Not often. Last I had in some time was with Ofelia and Celegwen, but it- I-"

(1/4)
>>
>>3920810
Your mind wanders, mid-sentence, trying to remember the last night you drank. It was terribly dark, with blood-red webs lingering on the outskirts of your vision- yet everyone was so eager to share, to look out for one another. You may have been the only man there, but everyone was wonderfully human.

"...they were extremely kind."

"You really can't handle this shit at all, can you?"

The demon lord puts up a skeletal finger, rising for a moment to approach another cask. His movement is unbelievably slow, and his steps seem to tilt. Is it the floor tilting? It's probably just how loose and disorienting his cape is. Surely, you aren't completely intoxicated yet.

He comes back to you with a clear glass.

"More vodka?" you murmur, shooting the demon a smug look as you go to take the cup from him.

The glass is shoved at you uneventfully. "Water. Pace yourself. I don't want you passing out. You look like you haven't eaten anything in an age, and I'm not about to take your sick ass out to dinner."

With little hesitation, you put back the glass. Like usual, the sensation is altogether unpleasant. Agriculture's seen to it that you don't care for much in the way of nutrition, but you suffer through it.

The demon is staring at you with a look that finally gets under your skin. "What the fuck is wrong with you?"

"I could ashk you the same question," you fire back. The slur is becoming difficult to manage, but you're not necessarily equipped to care.

Yech scarcely moves, seeming to draw into himself. The motion is almost imperceptible, but you catch it through the haze. "Sure, don't answer my question. You know it'd be insufferable for me to talk about them either, so fine, keep your fucking secrets."

There's a slow movement as the demon shakes the dice in his hand, the soft clacking catching Ray's attention. You can't help but feel sorry for the mastiff, neglected on the opposite end of the cave. "Jusht a moment-" you murmur, staggering upright.

Your vision tilts, the cave seeming to come out from under you. You put an arm forward, righting yourself, and make your way over to your mastiff. Yech's laughter doesn't escape your attention as you look down to Ray, trying to reassure him. "Eassy, boy. We'll be out of here s-soon."

Something catches the corner of your eye, sliding across the floor next to you.

It's a bone.

You roll your eyes as Ray looks up to you, begging to eat and play.

"...go ahead. S-stay, boy. ...good boy, Ray."

Staggering back, Yech could not look any more tickled. He thrusts another glass at you, this one a far lighter color than before. There's a small, black item stuck on the side of the glass that vaguely resembles a parasol. You frown at it. He laughs in your face.

"Thought this might be more your speed. Come on."

The demon lord pats the cave floor across from him, condescending and entirely too tickled. You take the glass, and murmur to him, "you didn't exactly respond to me, either."

(2/4)
>>
>>3920811
"What? What's wrong with me? Are you fucking kidding me?"

There's a slow rise and a wet rattle from the center of Yech's frame as he stretches. You catch holes in his noble attire, soaked as it is with wine and decay. The smell is revolting, barely concealed by the alcohol in the air. His voice is off-color as he continues. "Why the fuck do you care?"

You don't reply at first, taking a small drink of the pink liquor in your hands. It smells fruity, and reminds you vaguely of apples and strawberries. You almost want to save the little parasol for Celegwen. "This is exchellent, Yech. T-thank you."

"Look, where would I even start? This is stupid. You're being stupid, you're drunk."

You get a little more comfortable, easing into the floor. You stay sitting upright, but can't help relaxing. The constant strain of repressing tremor and any human emotion is exhausting, and you don't have it in you right now to try. Everything is fuzzy, even Ray blissfully eating in the back of the cave. You spin the parasol on the glass, smirking at the demon lord. "Ishn't that what you wanted...?"

"Well, yes. Everyone's better when they're drunk. Especially you, apparently. How am I supposed to believe you killed dozens of my friends-"

That glare is back again.

I did, didn't I?
I don't regret protecting myself, or my friends, or surviving as long as I have for a second.
Did I enjoy it?

"I want to be honesht with you, Yech. I- I really do."

"Good fucking luck lying to me."

"You sseem more messhed up than me. That'sh ssshaying a lot."

"Gee, thanks, Richard. Aren't you supposed to be compassionate or some shit-"

"Y-you don't have to tell me anything. I jusht want to help."

"Look- I'm not- I'm not worse off than you. That's bullshit. You're- you're a fucking monster- you're a pervert and a killer and obviously sick as fuck-"

This isn't anything you haven't heard before. You stare blankly at the demon, entirely unphased. You take another sip of the cocktail, entirely aware of how anxious your words and the spinning of the parasol is making Yech.

"Y-your point...?"

The demon lord chucks his glass at the far wall, away from you and Ray. It seems his frustration is mostly with himself.

"There's nothing wrong with a soldier needing some space. I just needed some time to think. It's been- what-"

"Oshhtedholm s-seems to have been decaying for s-several agesh."

"...oh. Has it, now?"

"At leasht."

"Probably shouldn't have drank so much."

"It'sh not helping."

The demon lord, nervously, toys with the dice in his hands. "It's not helping." He seems to have remembered them.

"...you know how to play craps?"

"Wh-what?"

"You don't gamble, do you?"

"Do I look- like someone who r-regularly shinsss-"

"Do you honestly want me to answer that?"

"...n-no. How do I p-play?"

(3/4)
>>
>>3920817
"We'll keep it simple. You gotta ante up to play. That means you're going to keep drinking, Richard, and you're going to match me."

You give an entirely condescending look to the demon lord. "S-simple enough."

"You'll win if the first roll is a 7 or 11."

"This sheems too eassy."

"Hold onto your flat ass, there's more. If the first roll is a 2, 3, or 12- you lose. You'll stay here another day, and we'll play again."

You tense slightly. "W-what about the other rollsh-"

"Everything else is a pass. 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10- if you get it, it has to be repeated before a 7 is thrown again. So..."

The demon slows his voice down, childishly, obviously wanting to make sure you understand. "If you roll a 4, you'll need to roll a 4 again before a 7 will win."

"Thish could... take awhile, then?"

"That depends. You're a pretty lucky guy, right? Surviving all of us? Making it as far as you have?"

The demon lord slides the dice over to you. The gold studs glisten against the bone, the mist and faint light of the cave, all swimming before you. With a slow motion, Yech reaches over and takes your empty cocktail glass. In a matter of seconds, he produces two shots, both filled with something blacker than the mist or the cave. It smells faintly of licorice.

"Ante-up."

With a grimace, you swing back the shot. The anise is cloying, faintly reminding you of a few herbal remedies you've used to effect.

You sweep the dice into your hands. They feel heavier than they looked. Everything feels fairly heavy right now, in fact. You almost want to say a prayer, but you know now is definitely not the time. There is nothing here with you right now but your trust in yourself.

>(Roll 2d6.)

>(This vote will remain open until a win or fail condition is met.)

>(Feel free to ask questions if you're uncertain of the rules or stakes.)
>>
Rolled 2, 1 = 3 (2d6)

>>3920824
Rules wise, would Yech catch on if we got a bad roll and prayed to Time to travel back so we could redo it?

Also behold this 11
>>
>>3920843
>immediate loss

Oh, oh no.

Oh no.

That's another day down here.

You could certainly try, anon. Do you want to? To pray to Time to reroll?

Are you really sure you want to do that?
>>
>>3920852
I say we stick with the dice. The demon lord will likely not appreciate us cheating.
>>
>>3920872
>inb4 Richard bonds with Yech so hard he becomes an unexpected based bro demon
So this...
Is the power...
Of bros before hoes...
>>
>>3920872
He probably wouldn't. Probably wouldn't jive well with Mercy to drink, gamble and then cheat on top of it, but you guys seem all aboard the sin train at the moment so not sure if that's even a concern.

Not sure if phoneposter or someone else disagreeing. Going to leave this open for another 20 minutes in case there's any opposition.
>>
>>3920852
Do we just hang out for a whole day doing nothing? I hope he can entertain us. Maybe provide food? Otherwise we're praying to Agriculture.
>>
>>3920898
I am on my phone, but that's someone else. Don't want to actually pray to Time, was just a question. Maybe if we roll a 4.
>>
>>3920903
Got it, no worries.

>>3920899
He only explicitly said that you had to stay for another day, not doing what. He's already made an effort to feed Ray, but you could ask for some hospitality for sure.
>>
>>3920912
Yeah ask if there's anywhere for flesh and blood mortals to get food around here.
>>
>>3920897
We'll see, anon. We'll see.

>>3920920
Duly noted. Actually leaving this open for a few more minutes, going to get some food myself and then we'll resume.
>>
>>3920898
>>3920903
I'm a different poster. Late to the party and not sure what the stakes are, but I'm voting against cheating unless it's important.
>>
>>3920965
Appreciate you joining us! Absolutely noted, no cheating.

Going to close the vote, writing now.
>>
>>3920972
Almost in a parody of prayer, you hold the dice to your chest as you shake them.

"A-alright, Yech- you know the Gods are with me! Behold-!"

The bone and gold clatters across the cave floor between you two. As the roll finished, the demon lord breaks out into such intense laughter that he falls over backwards. "Crap!! Fuck, you're terrible-! Ahaha!"

A two. A one. A failure stares back at you.

Yech stares back at you, wiping something wet from his eye sockets. It's almost as if he was crying, but it's merely wine. The demon lord lecherously sucks at the bony, dripping digit before leering back at you. "Tough luck. Looks like you're stuck with me for another day. We'll try again tomorrow night. Oh, don't look so fucking upset-"

Your frown is intense. Yech plies you with another pink cocktail, which you begrudgingly accept. You nearly spill the glass as you hold your arm out, another spasm in the torn muscle and scarred flesh hitting you hard. You hold the arm steady, trying to make the best of the situation. "D-do you at leasht have a-any food, or more water? I'm m-mortal, Yech- I can't ssubshissst off of alcohol alone."

"Did I not just fucking say that I wasn't taking you out for dinner? My aptitude is for liquor, and weapons, and explosives-"

"And treessh?"

"...maybe you can hold your shit better than I thought. Yes, and fucking trees, but I don't want to. It's weird. You're being way too chummy."

"That'sh fine-" you murmur, still frowning. With absolute seriousness, you slur, "I'll invoke Agriculshure if I mussht."

Yech leans forward, grabbing the collar of your robes with sudden violence and terror. "Hold your fucking tongue."

Ray immediately begins to bark hysterically, but you shout out to him.

"Sh-shtay. Shtay back, Ray."

You look down to Yech, realizing he's actually a good deal shorter than you. It's been very difficult to tell, as he's mostly been sitting. He smells absolutely terrible, the reek of decay and stale liquor clinging to his vest and cloak intensely. You try not to gag, keeping a straight face.

His voice is still decrepit, but there's something more to it. It's an almost childlike fear. "Not here. Don't you fucking dare. You... that's your fucking answer to everything, isn't it? You're literally twitching to go again. You- you sicken me, you piece of shit-"

He pushes you back, releasing his grip and making an extremely exaggerated show of wiping off his hands. It's as if you were the one that's disgusting him. "Fucking disgraceful. It'd probably kill you, anyways. You're nearly as skinny as I am. You must have already abused-"

The word catches in the demon's throat. He struggles for a moment to find a replacement, clearly distressed. "...it- plenty. Fucking bullshit... I told you not to fucking bother..."

(1/2)
>>
>>3921097
A pile of expletives fall from the demon's teeth, devoid as they are of lips. He rises slowly, making a haphazard gesture with his arms and conjuring something out of the soil ahead. You try to wipe the clinging wine stains off of your collar where Yech grabbed onto you, to little avail. He continues his cursing, looking to you as he produces something out of the floor.

"You're going to stay put, and you're not going to invoke shit. I'll send your bitches some food and water, if you swear to not call on anyone. ...to think, I was almost enjoying your disgraceful company. Fucking ridiculous."

The demon's conjuring is nothing like Celegwen's deliberate, beautiful motions or starlight. From the soil and his unpredictable wavering rises a pool, a vine, and a series of wooden dishes. The liquid congeals, forming into a veritable banquet. Ray's barking and growls subside as the smell of what you assume to be actual food hits the air.

You can't feel any hunger, but you're aware of how loosely your robes hang on you, and how terribly thin your frame has become. The demon's disgust lingers in the air as he looks out to you, stopping the spell and leaving you to stare. Hands trembling, you set down your drink and try to adjust your robes, rolling back down your sleeves, finding yourself self-conscious even through the liquor. Your countless scars go back into hiding, but your elbows still poke the edges of the hems, your shoulders protruding slightly against the fabric.

"...I take my title pretty fucking seriously, Richard, and won't let someone in my domain go without. Tried to show you some fucking hospitality before and you didn't get it. Here. You look like you need this. Should put some fucking meat on your bones. The dog shouldn't eat it, but you'll be alright. ...and I'll send some salads to your lady friends, or some shit. I don't know. Just don't do anything stupid."

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3921100
>A) Insist on going back to Ofelia and Celegwen with Ray while you wait the rest of the day out. Take some food and water with you. You appreciate the hospitality, but it's severely painful for you to eat, and you don't want Yech to take offense at what will likely be an uncomfortable experience. He didn't want to hear of the Gods, and you don't intend to get into it with him again.

>B) Accept Yech's hospitality. At least let him know what happened between you and Agriculture so he's not caught off guard, but eat what you can. Insist on going back to Ofelia and Celegwen as soon as you're done to ensure that they're alright. You could stand to get some rest, and to try and sober up before dealing with Yech any further. Ask him to dispel the mist around your friend's camp while you're at it.

>C) Double down on asserting yourself to Yech. Eat as much as you can, and spend the rest of the day with him. Send a note to Ofelia and Celegwen along with whatever Yech will provide for them, informing them of your bet, and pray that they'll understand the situation. You don't want to undo all of the progress you've made here. Implore your friends to endure while you finish with the demon lord.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3921103
>B) Accept Yech's hospitality. At least let him know what happened between you and Agriculture so he's not caught off guard, but eat what you can. Insist on going back to Ofelia and Celegwen as soon as you're done to ensure that they're alright. You could stand to get some rest, and to try and sober up before dealing with Yech any further. Ask him to dispel the mist around your friend's camp while you're at it.
>>
>>3921103
>>B) Accept Yech's hospitality. At least let him know what happened between you and Agriculture so he's not caught off guard, but eat what you can. Insist on going back to Ofelia and Celegwen as soon as you're done to ensure that they're alright. You could stand to get some rest, and to try and sober up before dealing with Yech any further. Ask him to dispel the mist around your friend's camp while you're at it.
>>
>>3921355
>>3921367
Nice, locking the vote here to keep the ball rolling. Writing now.
>>
>>3921404
Looking between the sickened demon lord and the completely contrasting banquet that's materialized before you, you bow your head slightly. You immediately regret the motion, your vision swimming intensely. Still, you try and act decently. "Thank y-you, Yech. I didn't m-mean to inshult you. Pleashe, if you c-could offer your hoshpitality to my friendssh asss well-"

With a groan and a wave of his hands, a small branch extends from the wall of the cavern. The demon lord murmurs a few words under his breath to the vine, which leaves as soon as it came.

"I'll send the bitches some flowers. See if I care. Just- just come and eat something. You look like you're fading on me, and I'm not explaining shit to Idonea if you die out here."

Yech tosses his cape beside him, conjuring a set of wooden chairs and a makeshift table out of the vines along the floor. You stagger over, looking sidelong at Ray. He's devouring the bone Yech threw at him with delight, and looks up to you expectantly. You offer him a slight smile, though you can't help but worry for your dog.

"You shaid- this isn't alright for R-Ray?"

"Bad for their health. Call me a monster if you want, but I'd never fuck with a man's dog. The bones will be fine. I'm sure you can figure something out for him later. Sit your ass down."

Looking to the demon lord with a sense of complete dismay, you take a seat at the natural table and look properly over it. Though you can't understand how, the food is piping hot. Steam rises from several baskets of hot rolls, fresh fruit and a solid slab of ham at the center of the spread. You look to the display, and bow your head for a moment to pray.

Yech tosses a roll at your head, interrupting you before a single word to Agriculture falls from your lips. You were so distracted you don't even manage to dodge out of the way of the grain, which falls harmlessly to the table. Ray barks at your attacker, but he's altogether too pleased with himself to bother leaping to your defense.

"Don't." The same disgusted glare shoots your way, as the demon lord drives a large knife into the slab of meat in the center of the table. "I gave you this. Don't you dare fucking start. Thank me all you want, but don't-"

You put your hands up, trying to reassure him. Though the digits are shaking intensely, you try to make yourself clear. "H-habits die hard, Yech. Shorry. Th-thank you."

A huge slice of some meat is placed before you. It reminds you vaguely of beef. You gingerly poke at it with the smaller knife that's next to your plate, sliding a few pieces of fruit and cheese next to it. Everything smells incredibly fresh, but you can't help but hesitate. "I undershtand that you d-don't want to hear of the G-Gods, Yech, but-"

(1/3)
>>
>>3921525
"You just don't fucking quit, do you?" Exasperation edges into light laughter. "Are you always this obsessed? Is it the whiskey? What is your issue? Do you not understand the words I'm speaking? Can we talk about anything else?"

"It'sh rel- relevant. You ashked me earlier-"

There's a sigh, and something of a frown. As much of a frown as a skeleton can manage. Yech gets up, slowly, and fetches two enormous goblets of wine for you both before sitting back down. He slams yours on the table next to you before settling down. He's seething. "Fine. What?"

The red chalice sitting before you is robust. You can't help but appreciate how much it compliments everything else set out before you. Your words and gaze are heavy as you try to explain, sipping at the wine through your slurred speech. "Thish wass long after your time- but Corchhaea had a terrible, terrible famine."

"Oh. Is that why you're-"

"No, no. No. Agriculshure blesshed me- I askhed Her for far too musch. The Mother of Her-"

You really stumble, trying not to butcher the next word, but it's impossible. "Her... chsursch. Bethaea washh her name, very- very kind lady, really- but sshe couldn't take it. Took her life inshtead-"

"This isn't exactly appropriate dinner conversation, Richard. I would know. I specialize in inappropriate conversation."

"It'sh important."

"Fiiiine. Go on." Yech impatiently looks to you. You realize he likely can't, or doesn't need to eat any of the food laid out before you, as he works at the goblet before him.

"I... I ashked Agriculshure for her blesshing. Sshe gave ussh the land and the harvesht, and I- I no longer feel h-hunger, or thirsht. B-but it isss... very painful- to partake of H-her giftsh. I wanted you to- to undershtand. I mean no offenshe."

Yech has entirely stopped drinking. He's staring at you with incredible intensity. You almost expect him to be speechless, but of course, he has something more to say.

"How did you not die?"

"The Godsh are M-Mer-"

You really don't want to say Mercy's name with a slur. You stop yourself, looking down at your plate and slowly picking at some of the fruit. Like usual, it's like glass going down.

Yech stares at you, somehow, with even more intensity. "Sure. I suppose living like that is a real treat. What else have- you- done to you, I wonder? You get all those scars on your arms and face from bar fights, you fucking freak? And I'm assuming the liquor doesn't matter since it's not a gift, or some shit-"

The demon lord refills your goblet even though you've scarcely touched it. You take a bigger drink from it the moment it's back on the table, trying to wash down the sensation of seeds in your lungs, of the meat cutting into your throat. Coughing, you try and choke out a few words of reassurance. It takes a moment, but you manage to reply. "M-most of them are from- fighting-"

(2/3)
>>
>>3921527
Decidedly still curious, Yech leans across the table, throwing another slice of meat at your plate. "Most of them, huh? You into some sicker shit than I thought, or what?"

You frown through another mouthful of food, swallowing your distaste with absolutely no amusement. "N-no."

Yech can't help but laugh again. "Haha, oh, wow. Oh, wow. I get it. But really? The high and mighty Father- you've been bullied, haven't you? Can't even stick up for yourself?"

With a firm motion, you drive your own knife into the meat in front of you, glaring at the demon across the table. He shuts up for the first time, properly, since you've met him.

He's clearly still afraid of you.

No small measure of revulsion cuts through the building discomfort as you silently work at your plate. You aren't entirely sure when to stop eating, and the demon keeps plying you with more food. Your head is swimming from the sheer volume of alcohol you've been taking in- and the weight of the meal feels like it's literally sticking to your ribs. You try to push your plate away, and catch a glimpse of your wrist peeking out of your robes.

It actually looks fairly healthy.

Shocked, you can't help but pull back on the fabric, looking over your own skin. It's still scarred, but the vein and bone is nowhere near as visible as before. By the looks of it, you could almost pass for a normal weight. Unrolling the sleeve a little further shows no glaring bone, the slim muscle marred with myriad old blemishes. Yet through the patterns of old wounds, it's hardly emaciated. The pallor isn't nearly as bad as before, either. Sure, you're still aggravated by the periodic spasm in your back, your limbs, your chest- but something feels better.

You may just be flushed from all of the alcohol, but you look up to Yech, utterly floored.

"W-what have you done to m-me?"

"Thought Rem might appreciate it. The sick fuck likes 'em with some meat. Besides, you're of much more use to me if you can hold your drink. Don't look too much into it."

There's quite a few questions brewing in your mind, but it's so fuzzy that it's hard to articulate anything.

>A) Stick to your guns. Ask Yech to dispel the mist, go back to camp, and reconvene with Ofelia and Celegwen. They'll want to see this, and you want to make sure they're alright. You need some time to think.

>B) Ask some of those questions. The girls can wait. There's a lot more to this demon than you thought.
>1) Why is he actually helping you?
>2) What was that comment about Idonea before?
>3) Who's Rem- did he mean Remigius? Should you be worried?

>C) You seriously can't believe that a demon would try and look after your health. Thank Yech, sincerely, and try to do something nice for him in turn. Keep him company a little while longer- you can probably stand a better chance at him dispelling the mist around camp if he's in a better mood and company.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3921531
>C) You seriously can't believe that a demon would try and look after your health. Thank Yech, sincerely, and try to do something nice for him in turn. Keep him company a little while longer- you can probably stand a better chance at him dispelling the mist around camp if he's in a better mood and company.
Richard, I think, has never really bro'd it up with anybody in his life. That based orc warrior guy was the closest, and not even that. He better fucking put his arm over Yech's shoulder by the time he's that drunk and completely mentally free.
>inb4 Ofelia and Gwen show up and see them broing it up and lose their shit
>>
Man I imagine Yech's voice being a cross between He-Man's Skeletor, and the type of stereotypical nasally voice belonging to a whiny teenager who unironically shops at Hot Topic.
>>
>>3921741
You hit the nail on the head, literally how I pictured it too lol.

https://youtu.be/DC0X9AyA2f0?t=46

Really though. Having a blast. Working on the last few entries for your guy's journal so I'll be leaving this open for a bit until it's done. Will be sure to share when it's all finished, and should get at least one or two more updates out tonight.
>>
>>3921715
Supporting this.

>>3921741
This is what I pictured too lmao
>>
>>3921715
>>3921741
>>3921784
Fuck it we've got enough votes to press on, I'll finish the journal after this update. On the last two pages but it's taking me awhile.

Locking the vote, writing now!
>>
>>3921814
https://youtu.be/FiMqZmNHU1I

It's hard to not look at Yech with complete amazement. His irritated, fuzzy and entirely drunken frame has your complete attention, for a moment. Unfortunately, it's hard to look at anything at all right now. Through the haze and your swimming vision, you look at your wrists and arms again. You scarcely can believe your eyes. Running a hand along the scarred flesh, surely enough, you confirm that the muscle is firm and healthy underneath.

"I have n-no idea... how to thank you."

"Don't. I'm not doing this for you." Despite his words, the demon lord slides another glass of water across the table to you, and more food.

You take it without complaint, grinning at him. You're far too drunk to care how goofy your smile must look. The motion is so alien to your face that you aren't entirely sure if you're doing it correctly. "That shounds like a lie to me, Yech."

"You calling me a fucking liar? I mean it. There's other demons down here who'd care a lot more than me if you died straight away. It's rare for us to get a new toy, you little-"

A little bit of laughter escapes from your lips as you ease back into your chair. Your old accent is coming out, vastly more rustic than what the church has instilled in you. Though you rarely drink, you recognize how much more relaxed it's making you, and you can't complain. The occasional tremor running through your body fades into the back of your mind. You're far happier to have a full stomach and some heat in your face that isn't from the divine than to worry about a few spasms.

Yech stops himself from berating you, refilling your wine for at least the third time. You seem to have lost count. His voice, irate and disgusted though it may be, has at least some hope in it. "You don't really want to go, do you?"

"You're not half bad, Yech- I might've been too harssh earlier."

"No fucking kidding. That stick is so far up your ass I bet Tsilorm couldn't see it."

Your stomach turns at the name. You aren't entirely sure who he's referring to, but you have a sinking feeling that it's the shrouded demon. Vague memories of blood and flame stick to the back of your throat and the unusually large quantity of food you've consumed.

"Don't go losing all the wine- for fuck's sake. I heard he did a number on you- let's drop it, seriously. Here-"

Another drink gets shoved at you. It's bubbly, and fairly clear. You nurse it while the demon lord continues. It seems to help immediately with your nausea.

"You don't have to stick around. I get it. You've got two bitches waiting for you, and you were entirely right about me. ...I don't know why the fuck I'm telling you this."

Yech lolls his head around, a fair bit of wine spilling out of his lips over the table as he drawls. "You probably think I'm a fucking sucker for letting you in here. Any second now you're going to drop the act, burn my home and pulverize this miserable pile of bones, right?"

(1/3)
>>
>>3921885
A bony finger pokes at your chest. You're delighted by how little of your bone pushes back. You've got some mass on you again.

Beaming, you look down to the skeleton before you, and swing an arm around his shoulder. It almost feels like wine spills from your own lips as you speak, but it's merely the liquor talking.

"I don't n-need to. Really. Thanksh. Thish issss great."

Yech pushes you firmly off of him. You slump back into your chair, finishing off your drink. It's hard to not goad him on. "You th-think pushing me away is going to h-help? It d-doesn't work. I know- better than mosht."

Your smile could not be broader. The self-deprecation is all too easy to slide into, with your defenses so low. "You're af-fraid, right? Of letting anyone c-close? It's... it's terrifying, isn't it? Much s-scarier than a demon, or a p-priest-"

"Shut the fuck up. You have no idea what you're talking about."

Your grin turns to a leer as you lean forward, pointing at your chest.

Mercy, it feels so good to not be so skeletal.

"You're afraaid, and I know why, Yech."

There's an audible clattering of bone as the demon's fist tightens, bone rubbing against bone. "I'd punch you if I didn't know you liked it, you sick fuck."

"Y-you're angry that y-you're powerlesssh, deshpite everything, aren't you? Desspite-"

You take the hand off of your chest, looking again around the cavern. It really does feel like a Dream. Your eyes settle back on the sorcerer, the demon lord, your host. "-deshpite all of your kindnessshh. That'sh not what people sshe. Humanssh are cruel. We're awful to eachsh other."

Bone comes off of bone, Yech's fist relaxing. He puts it on his goblet instead, drinking more heavily. You didn't think it was possible, but he's managing. His voice is watery and wet, nasally and cloying as the overabundance of grapes hanging around his and your breath. "...you said it. But what's your fucking excuse, then? You just decide to help me out, and you go back to killing? I gotta look after my own kind, you know. As much as I fucking hate the lot of them, you've done some pretty twisted shit, Richard."

You don't know how to respond. It's not that you hadn't thought about it- you're simply far, far too drunk to articulate such an important and complex issue.

You settle on shrugging, and drinking. The wine feels fantastic. You feel fantastic. Have you ever been this drunk?

It's hard to not muse aloud. "I've been k-kicked out of a bar before, you know."

"Were you even fucking listening to me?"

"Of courshe I wassss, but thish ish much better dinner convershashion."

"Bullshit."

A long pause hangs in the air between you two. Yech predictably breaks it, probably realizing you have no intent of answering his question. "...what happened?"

(2/3)
>>
>>3921888
It was the second time you went to Anson. The Beggar and Spear was pretty dingy, but you were hoping to not be recognized, and you really needed a drink.

You had several.

It was right before a massive demon outbreak, and you're not entirely sure if you were responsible. You may have saved the town, but the bar...

"The fight wassh probably- definitely- entirely my fault."

It's only been two years, but it feels like a lifetime ago. You struggle to remember the vaguest details, slipping into the edges of the memory.

>A) You ran into an old childhood bully, from Pontos. They tried to kill you, and you acted in self-defense. Things escalated as people took sides.

>B) A member of the clergy tailed you there, and tried to pick you off. You don't regret what you did. It was so ugly, you wish you had done more.

>C) A heathen was slandering the name of the Gods. You picked a fight with everyone involved. You couldn't help yourself! You can't turn a deaf ear to that kind of language.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3921891
>>A) You ran into an old childhood bully, from Pontos. They tried to kill you, and you acted in self-defense. Things escalated as people took sides.
>>
>>3921891
>>A) You ran into an old childhood bully, from Pontos. They tried to kill you, and you acted in self-defense. Things escalated as people took sides.

Glass him
>>
Going to leave the vote open for a minute while I dump these journal entries, took me like a week longer than I expected it to but it's finally done!

This is recent as of your last entry, made right after meeting Aurelius (and before you knew her name.)

Starting from the top, with your inventory and observations in prayer.
>>
>>3921969
Ofelia's Honeycake Recipe, opposite the tenets of Mercy you found in Ostedholm. Unknown author, assumed to be a priestess of Mercy.
>>
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>>3921971
Start of the record you made of the demons you've encountered. A bit messy, getting the charcoal, ink and pens to cooperate. You were under some time pressure.
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>>3921974
Some heavy hitters here- still reminiscing about who led you to first invoke Storm.
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>>3921977
The biggest threats you've faced in terms of power. You lost a lot to these guys, but came through despite everything.
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>>3921979
From the outskirts of Ostedholm. Fighting the beetle was the first time you dual-wielded deities, to great effect.
>>
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>>3921980
Lastly, the demons you faced within Ostedholm proper. Complete with a self-deprecating doodle of Richard. You probably don't look that bad. Though, after invoking both Flesh and Mercy, you've been a bit worse for the wear.
>>
>>3921982
All of these entries, along with anything else you stash in your journal (like those runes you transcribed back in the catacombs, and the etching you took in the waterway) will be posted to this Google Drive:

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1r-yFdCSj0VJi63LsD3Vl9T0DWw4us6wn

I'll update it when you guys make any entries in the quest as soon as I'm able. Hope you all enjoy. I might not update again tonight, going to get some food. Either a bit later tonight or tomorrow afternoon. Thanks again for everything dudes. You're not out of here just yet.
>>
>>3921987
I fucking want to see how everybody reacts when/if Ofelia and Gwen walk into the mancave to witness this event. Yech seems like the kind of guy Richard would probably care to see again even after he's all done in these ruins too. They just mesh well, I think, since I suspect Yech used to literally be just like Richard back when he was human and not a drunk bone lord of screaming jungles and deadly confetti explosions.
>>
>>3921891
>>A) You ran into an old childhood bully, from Pontos. They tried to kill you, and you acted in self-defense. Things escalated as people took sides.
>>
>>3921891
>A) You ran into an old childhood bully, from Pontos. They tried to kill you, and you acted in self-defense. Things escalated as people took sides.
In fact, some even took Richard's side. Only because they hated the bully more than they hated Richard, because based priest being helped in any way is a no-no.
>>
>>3921893
>>3921898
>>3922071
>>3922173
>>3922190
Good shit guys, noted. Glassing, based bully hating, etc. Don't hate on the deadly confetti explosions man, sometimes a guy gets bored in hundreds of years of whining and boozing.

Locking the vote! Writing now.
>>
>>3922449
Next time he throws the fact that we killed his demon buddies in our face, I want to bring up that they attacked us first. The ones that didn't attack us, like Mali, Idonea, kids, we didn't kill them.

We did try to invoke Vengeance on Mali when we thought he was attacking us and Ray, but that failed and everyone lived so it all worked out fine!
>>
>>3922514
Absolutely noted. Will be sure to work that in.

Just a head's up, I'm using past tense in the flashback and am not really sure about the quality, having some trouble getting any feedback. Apologies if it's a bit clunkier than usual but I'd really rather put out the update than to rewrite the entire thing or sit on it all day.
>>
>>3922449
"Richard. You piece o' shit-!"

The hand on your shoulder, worn from farming and calloused from a lifetime of aggression, spun you around so quickly you spilled your drink. The beer at the Beggar and Spear was terrible, but you weren't about to be picky. The man you turned to face looked just as disgusted at the liquid, splashing as it did all down the front of his shirt and trousers.

Despite the stranger's rudeness, you tried to maintain some decency. "Sorry- barkeep, can we get this man another- wait-"

You knew this face. This furious, utterly hateful face. He was older than you remembered, worn from manual labor, the hardships of the bad harvest, the constant threat of invasion. "Jack...?"

It was very difficult to not cringe away from the burly, mustached and entirely pissed acquaintance staring directly into your soul. It was harder still to not recognize the collection of men sitting near you who immediately turned around to see what was happening.

Jack looked straight down at you, and spit on your face. His words were just as wet, clearly having had more than his fair share of the tavern's abysmal service as well. "Mighty Merciful o' you tae speak tae me, FATHER. It's gonnae be the last thing ye ever do."

It all happened so quickly, the memory is a bit of blur. He punched you, alright- right in the nose, confirming beyond all shadow of a doubt that this was the same bully you had dealt with for most of your life in Pontos. You had been serving the church for over a decade by this point, though, and your spry limbs from working in the field had become scarred, wasted and altogether not as fast as they used to be.

A collection of the men around you couldn't help but turn and protest.

"What's the big idea? He's not hurtin' anyone."

"Tryin' to have a drink, have some fookin' Spirit!"

"Take that shit outside-"

The latter man had actually stood up. It was the bartender, so inept at his position that he was on the other side of the bar with the patrons. He attempted to glare up at Jack, but the farmer was entirely unconcerned with anything other than his blood lust. While you nursed the crimson flowing from your nose, your attacker glared at the bartender- and punched you again.

(1/2)
>>
>>3922549

You tried to dodge the second attack, and managed to get it to only graze your jaw. The pain was mostly in your nose, but it was still enough to have you seeing red. Knocked against the bar, you groped through the haze of blood to swipe at the nearest object. You slammed it back against Jack, making perfect contact. Almost as soon as the glass shattered it sent him staggering backwards.

The entire bar stirred, several men around you standing to protest, and more patrons near the back seemed to get up to watch.

Jack threw himself at you, screaming, "I'll kill you! You'd BETTER pray, you bastard-!"

You couldn't help but smirk before reacting properly. Getting a hit in had your blood flowing, and you were remembering yourself. Reading this bully's wide and predictable motions was altogether too easy, once you got the hang of it.

>A) You dodged out of the way, letting him crash into the bar and injuring himself in the process.

>B) You dodged out of the way, and slammed a chair over his back. Jack fought like a monster- you weren't about to play nice.

>C) You let him tackle you, and wrestled him to the floor. You were hardly a brawler, even back then, but you trusted your knowledge of his movements well enough to best him.

>D) You let him tackle you, and actually started to pray. You wouldn't actually invoke the Gods in a bar fight, but the intimidation tactic would absolutely get him off of your back.

(Definitely switching to present tense in the next update, thanks again for bearing with me guys)
>>
>>3922553
>A) You dodged out of the way, letting him crash into the bar and injuring himself in the process.
>>
>>3922553
>A

And then we told him to stop hitting himself
>>
>>3922569
>>3922595
Sweet deal guys, going to lock the vote here with the consensus. Thanks again for bearing with me, writing now!
>>
>>3922632
You deftly throw yourself out of the way at the last possible moment, leaving Jack to plunge into the hard wooden counter. His enormous frame practically splinters the wood, and you can hear the wind knocked out of his lungs as he collides with the surface. A groan rises from the nearby patrons of the bar, sarcastic and altogether in your favor.

"Hey. Jack." You smirk, unable to help yourself. "Stop hurting yourself."

https://youtu.be/vMxo_3oHULE

Coughing for air, the bully spins around, red-faced and clearly homicidal. One of the men standing next to him pats him on the back, looking to you with a smirk as well. Jack gets his breath after a few seconds- remarkably faster than you'd expect- and throws himself again at you. He doesn't even attempt a comeback, screaming at the top of his lungs as he hurls a series of fists at your face.

You duck to the side, weaving in between the jabs with a fair amount of grace for how drunk you are. The pain in your face is intense, but it's got your heart racing, your blood pumping. His swings are wide and terribly easy to navigate, so you jab back with your words rather than your body. "Mercy, are you sloppy- haven't you learned anything since we were kids?"

A few of the men in the back of the tavern start jeering.

"GET 'IM!"

"YOU GOT 'EM, COME ON-"

The jeers are only encouraging you. "Really, Jack- I'd think you'd have done something more with yourself-"

"TRY A LEFT HOOK!"

"No, he's too fast! He's gotta' do somethin' different, they prolly know each other-"

"Here-!"

A bottle sails through the air, and Jack manages to catch it with a fair amount of grace. You take a step back, watching with horror as he smashes the bottle against the counter.

"Fuck- he's actually goin' to do it, isn't he?"

"KEEP IT UP, KID-!"

You leap across the bar, sliding over the splintered surface and immediately ducking down for cover. The glass soars overhead, clipping the top of your shoulders as you cover your head. As it contacts the back wall, the broken bottle destroys several full containers of liquor, raining down over the floor and the back of your shirt. You didn't wear your robes- you didn't want to be recognized, and now you're going to reek like liquor going back to the church.

Furious, you stand upright, spitting at Jack. "Is that the best you've got?"

The burly man finds a few words to spit back as he menacingly walks towards you, rolling up his sleeves.

"I don't need no fuckin' Gods to kick yer ass, Richard. Yer gonna pay for what ye did to Edwin! They might've let you off, but I won't!!"

With a heave, he rips a nearby bar stool up and out, chucking it at you with absolutely no hesitation. You duck under the bar again, more glass and alcohol shattering. The bartender is absolutely screaming.

(1/2)
>>
>>3922741
"OUT!! GET OUT, GET OOOUTTT!! SOMEONE GET THESE BASTARDS OUT BEFORE THEY RUIN ME-!"

There's a commotion behind the bar. You don't dare look up, as a number of bottle are still splintering and breaking overhead from the assault Jack is launching. The next thing you hear gets your heart racing faster than the attack.

"I'LL CLEAR THE TAB OF ANYONE THAT GETS 'EM OUT! NOW HURRY IT UP!"

The entire bar explodes, as a number of men rush forward. Your heart sinks as you see a few bodies slide over the counter towards you.

>A) Try and make a break for it. Don't hurt anyone- try to slip your way out of the commotion as fast as you can. You can run pretty fast, once you're in the clear.

>B) Fight your way out. Gods, you need a little violence. Don't hold back. You're in this deep, and you have a hard enough time restraining yourself when you aren't drunk or angry.

>C) Focus on dragging out Jack yourself. He's way bigger than you, but maybe you can taunt and lure him away to help the patrons. Might get you in better with the barkeep. Money isn't an issue for you, but tarnishing your name any further isn't helping matters.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3922747
>>A) Try and make a break for it. Don't hurt anyone- try to slip your way out of the commotion as fast as you can. You can run pretty fast, once you're in the clear.
>>
>>3922747
>Let them escort you out. They aren't trying to kill you like Jack, they're just trying to get you out for free drinks. Make it easy on them.

Obviously if they aren't restraining Jack to throw him out, there's a big issue with this course of action and it would be better to do A.
>>
>>3922747
This >>3922807 then >>3922778
Hold your hands up where they can see them and start smiling and winking at them, already walking your way to the exit. If they try to do some shit or Jack is still loose, do A
>>
>>3922778
>>3922807
>>3922827
Got it, locking the vote. Writing now.
>>
>>3922868
Holding your hands up, you try to stand, dodging more bottles being chucked at you by Jack. His aim is terrible, as several men have grabbed onto his arms in a poor attempt to restrain him. You dare to take your eyes off of him for a moment to look at the eight burly farmers that are closing in on you. They must have heard the comment about you being a Father.

With a wink, you gingerly slide past the end of the counter. "I'm going, I'm going. Easy."

It's hard to not see how tense they all are. Several of them have bottles in hand, and one even has a knife. You wince, acutely aware of how dangerous they assume you must be, and continue slowly backing out. Everyone jumps, as a roar cuts through the bar.

Jack manages to toss off the three men on him, knocking them back into a few bystanders. The bar bursts out into more chaos as a chair gets thrown, slamming into him and splintering to pieces. Your assailant screams, and rather than going for the reasonable target that threw the chair, he picks up one of the wooden stakes from the floor and charges at you instead.

Four of the men standing near you throw themselves at the beast of a man, screaming in turn and trying to subdue him. You seize the opportunity to slink through the crowd, trying to shake off anyone that touches you.

"I'm going! Step aside-! Get your hands off of me-!"

You try to shake off yet another patron, and to your horror, Jack peels himself off of the wall of bodies between you two. Seeking any cover you can find, you duck behind the bartender- who eats a fist to the face on your behalf.

Your heart sinks. Jack screams, diving after you as you rip away from the surrounding men and sprint for your life.

A quick glance behind you as you approach the front door shows the place in utter disarray, the commotion rising from the dozens of men deafening. They tear at Jack and each other through the strewn glass and broken furniture. Many of their eyes are on you, screaming at you to run.

You happily oblige, tearing out into the streets of Anson. The warm air of Spring and the coming harvest hits you hard, sweating and soaked in liquor as you are. Running through the streets of the city, you hoped you would find refuge, only to hear screams off in the distance...

-----

"The d-demon outbreak was intenshe. The schity was greatful, of courshe, but..."

Yech, to your utter surprise, had been entirely silent while you told your tale. He had been plying you with more drinks the entire time, but remained quiet until now.

"You're a fucking maniac. Surprised you weren't barred from the city outright- what did you do, for Jack to want to kill you? That's pretty fuckin' extreme, even for a lunatic like that."

You almost feel like you could sober up from the question.

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3922914
>A) Tell Yech about the first time you invoked Vengeance. It's a pretty personal matter, and you'd rather keep it brief, but let him know what happened. Change the subject as quickly as you can to keep him from plying any further. (Write-in anything you might want to say)

>B) Get into the meat of it. You've never been able to talk about the ordeal at length, ever, and you suspect a demon might actually appreciate how horrific it was.

>C) Insist that you've talked enough, and ask Yech a few questions of your own. You're more curious about him than anything. (Write-in any questions you might have).
>>
>>3922919
>>B) Get into the meat of it. You've never been able to talk about the ordeal at length, ever, and you suspect a demon might actually appreciate how horrific it was.
>>
>>3922919
>C

Who was he as a human?
How'd he end up down here?
Did his fantastic knowledge of alcohol come with his transformation?
>>
>>3922919
>B) Get into the meat of it. You've never been able to talk about the ordeal at length, ever, and you suspect a demon might actually appreciate how horrific it was.
Go all in in the grisly shit and the stuff Richard knows and thinks about it all, but never voiced or let himself think for years and years.
then >>3922938
>>
>>3922933
>>3923062
Are you guys sure you want to bring up the gods when he's already been set off by mentioning them? Multiple times?
>>
>>3923070
He fucking asked to hear about it himself. At least Richard could warn him by saying something like "It involves the Gods. Are you sure you want me to tell you about what happened?" or whatever. Maybe he can also provide insight as to Vengeance's link to Richard's inner Catalyst.
>>
>>3923083
I mean he asked sure, but did he know the explanation would involve deities? Pretty sure he didn't, otherwise he wouldn't have needed to ask.
>>
>>3922933
>>3923062
>>3922938
Fortunately this isn't mutually exclusive so I will incorporate the shit out of them both

>>3923070
>>3923083
>>3923099
I'll have you guys prod a bit first and not go right into it if it's not cool.

Writing now!
>>
>>3923162
"Lishten... it... involves the Godssh. Are you sshure you want to hear thish?"

"If it's anywhere near as entertaining as the last story? I think I can suffer through it. ...keep eating, though, you're swaying and I don't want you to pass out just yet. This is some good shit."

With a sigh, you loosen your belt, knock back another drink, and look over to Ray. The mastiff is sound asleep, though his outline is hazy and it's hard to discern anything more than his general shape. You nod, righting yourself, shoving down a bit more bread with no small measure pain and looking to the demon lord.

"You shure you want to hear th-thishh, really...? No tantrumssh?"

Yech returns your sigh, topping it with a groan and kicking his feet up onto the table. For the first time, you realize that he's wearing house slippers. You can't help but laugh at the sight as he replies, tossing another roll at your head. "Oh, come the fuck on, I'm not that bad. Let's hear it already. I'm sure I've done worse."

-----

Edwin had broken your arm. Again. You clutched onto the limb, trying not to scream, tears streaking down your face as you glared back up at the monster. He was hardly bigger than you, but the kid was intensely violent. You suspected that his parents beat him, with how often he was out of their sight.

You wanted to show him Mercy.

He never was able to reciprocate. He took advantage, always finding a way to track you down when you were dealing with a headache. Now he's kicking the fractured bone and eliciting a proper scream from you.

You couldn't stand it. The years of abuse- the absolute agony, being unable to help on the farm for months at a time. Your Father was a devotee to Flesh, and often could help with the recovery, but you couldn't take it anymore. You had to do something. His sniveling face, that upturned nose, his bushy eyebrows furrowed in misplaced anger.

He kicks you again.

"Get up, Richard, you scarecrow! Get up! Where's your Mercy now, huh? Where is She? They hate you too, you know, everyone does! Let's see Her heal this-!"

You aren't crying. You're so angry- so righteously angry, your thin limbs are trembling. There's only one thing on your mind. It's not compassion, or protection, or healing.

It's Vengeance.

Dry, sage and utterly disgusted eyes glare back at your tormentor with such intensity he actually takes a step back. You open your mouth to curse him. Not to call for help, not to beg for Mercy, but to strike him down with all of the hate you've harbored for your short life.

Bile comes out instead. Thick, black and utterly toxic, it flows over your lips and into the soil before you.

A scream rises from the figure standing before you. It's Edwin. Edwin is screaming, screaming and Gods does it sound heavenly. The rising terror and years of pain falling onto him crushing into his frame, sounds better than any hymn or litany.

(1/4)
>>
>>3923353
You reach out. Despite the broken limb, you feel something so much worse than the hot and white pain.

It's satisfaction. It feels unbelievably good. You've never felt anything like it before. There's power, and a connection to something so much greater than you it robs you of all knowledge of the pain in your arm or head or soul.

There's blackness. There's a deep pit, a well. An utter absence of empathy. There is no Mercy. There is a little boy, beaten and broken over and over again in a life that he cannot escape, that he cannot ever hope to find reprieve from. Bent and wounded, seeking power, seeking control, lashing out against the world that he hates. Finding someone who won't fight back, who won't cry, who won't get him beaten again.

You vomit intensely, blood and bile pouring out onto the floor in front of you as you feel all of Edwin's hatred and everything that's driven him to hurt you so many times before.

There's a cracking sound. It's so loud it makes you jump, despite the sickness. There's another, and another. The boy in front of you is on the floor- Gods, is he screaming- and you watch with complete satisfaction as his bones shatter. The same pain he's inflicted on you, on everyone you know he's lashed out at.

The reciprocation is immediate and absolutely devastating, and you feel, it too. You clutch at the soil, body ravaged with the might of it.

There's something worse still.

A crack. A fracture. Not in your bones, but in your soul. You didn't know the name for it at the time, but you instantly recognized it for what it was. What it would do to you. The end of your humanity, the end of everything.

The Catalyst.

You can't scream through the sheer volume of crimson and darkness, but you feel yourself slipping. Your mind races, your heart beating so quickly it's humming- you feel yourself being pulled, like every fiber of you is crushed back together and made into something far worse than the nightmares whispered to you by your tormentors- worse still than anything you could wish to inflict on another.

There's more screaming. It's your mother, dropping the basket of crops she's carrying- running towards you, stricken with panic.

You crash back into yourself, the flow of the liquid hatred subsiding as you curl into yourself, clutching at your arm, never taking your eyes off of Edwin's utterly broken body.

His breath is ragged. He can clearly feel everything, though he must be in too much pain to speak.

(2/4)
>>
>>3923355
You get to your feet, clutching your head as the pain redoubles, somehow worse than your broken limb. The blood and bile is subsiding enough for you to spit on Edwin's broken body. Some of his bones are protruding from the skin, others are blossoming into bruises and blood beneath. You feel no pity for him, not when you know with absolute certainty that he never felt any for you. Not when you know beyond all doubt that this is nothing he hasn't done to anyone else before. Not when you know that the Gods are Merciful, and Vengeful, and that they worked through you and you survived.

"Richard?! What's- what's wrong with you?! Oh, by all the Gods-! What have you done?!"

-----

Yech's mouth is hanging open, a fair bit of wine trickling out onto the table between the two of you.

You skewer another slice of meat, digging into it greedily as you finish the story. The demon lord just stares, and stares. You swallow your satisfaction, the catharsis, of finally being able to voice the entire tale.

"I've never... b-been able to talk about thish before. For obvioussh reasssonsh. I m-mentioned it to Malimossh, but he didn't sheem to care. My friendsh... Gwen asshked why they hadn't k-killed me outright. People h-have been trying, Yech, ever shince. P-people don't forget Vengeanshe."

Picking his feet back off the table, Yech slowly gets up, comes around the table, and sits in the chair adjacent to you. He's looking at you with something you've never seen before.

You realize it's admiration.

"That's- that's incredible. You're fucking incredible. Seriously? Just like that- as a fucking kid?"

Another swig of wine. You're way past the point of restraining yourself. "It wash a long time c-coming, Yech. I had sshuffered a lot."

"So you- you don't regret it? I mean, how could you, you survived the fucking Catalyst- and-"

The demon lord splutters for a moment, unable to finish his sentence.

You finish it for him. "...and Vengeanshe, yeah. I d-don't. I wisssh more people would undershtand."

Slinging an arm around Yech again, you lean forward, so full and intoxicated you can barely stay upright. "Thanksh fer bein' sho undershtanding."

He doesn't pull away, looking back at you with what you almost imagine to be a slight grin. He seems utterly floored, though not at a loss for words. "I mean, fuck, what can I even say to all that? I wish I could have done the same to a few people myself-! Ahaha!"

You lean back, stretching, looking sidelong at the demon lord and taking a bit more wine from him. "Enough 'bout me! Letsh hear about you!"

"Oh, no. No fucking way!"

You offer the same goofy smile as before, settling back down into your seat. "I wanna know. Did y-your fantashtic knowledge of alcohol and s-spiritsh come from your Catalysht?"

(3/4)
>>
>>3923359
Yech can't help but smirk. The compliment did the trick, as he can't stop himself from boasting. "Are you shitting me? I've always had taste, Richard. Always. My subjects were always treated well, and my dinner parties were the talk of the- wait. Fuck you. I said I wasn't answering any questions about me-"

Your smile broadens. "Alwaysh, huh? Who w-were you, then?"

There's another groan. "You're so fucking annoying. Fine. Fine! If it isn't fucking obvious, I was a Lord. Very well respected, might-I-fucking-add. I was Lord Yarbury, of quite a nice fucking bit of land, some vineyards... my wife called me Eric- may her cheating, back-stabbing, worm-riddled ass rest in peace- but my friends called me Yech. And by friends, I mean the bastards who were grabbing for my land and title and pretended to want to drink with me."

You nod your head, accepting more wine. You can't ever remember feeling this full, and want to loosen your belt again. Eyeing the goblet, you gingerly sip at it for the first time in what must be hours, looking up to Yech with a fair bit of sympathy. "Shorry to hear all th-that. How did ssshomeone like you end up down here, th-then?"

"Same as the rest of these fucking losers. I fucking lost it. Having the only thing you care about burned to the fucking ground, your wife stabbing your goddamn back and not knowing who you can trust has a fucking way of pushing a guy to do some twisted shit."

Another nod. You're nodding a lot, but you don't want to sleep. This is vastly more interesting than reliving bar fights or trauma. "Like w-what...?"

"I guess it wouldn't hurt to say. You're pretty fucked up too, maybe you'd appreciate it, I don't fucking know-"

You try to reassure the demon lord, not caring in the slightest for the jab at you. "Of courshe."

"I got so fed up with the shit- the pillaging, the purging, the fucking woman- I sort of, well-"

Yech eyes his own goblet, downing the entire contents readily. He doesn't look to you, but rather looks past you as he finishes. "I might have killed all of those bastards that were stabbing me in the back. ...and the wife. With my hands. Not the soldiers, though. They were fair game for the explosives."

You definitely push your goblet away. "I shee."

"Oh don't give me that shit. I'd never- I mean, you're- shut the fuck up. Shut up, Richard. You don't even know what you're talking about. You're drunk off your ass and wouldn't know a killer or an assassination if it hit you in your busted face."

A heavy silence sits between you both. You feel heavier- the call of sleep is hard on you, but you stay upright, knowing that you can't rest now.

Yech seems to come around on his own, clearly uncomfortable with the silence as he looks back at you. "...I wouldn't fucking kill you. Don't insult me."

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3923361
>A) You've still got more questions. This seems to be a recurring problem down here. At least your rambling seems to have gotten on the demon lord's good side. (Write-in any other questions you might want to ask, while Yech is being relatively sociable.)

>B) You can't stay any longer. Try and get back to your friends, and sleep off the food and drink before you have to wager with Yech again. Ask him to call off the mist before you go, if he hasn't already. It's not that you don't trust him- you just want to make sure that everyone else is alright.

>C) Trust Yech's hospitality enough to sleep in his cave. Ray is with you, and you know that the sorcerer wouldn't harm him. Plus, you can count on him to wake you up before the next bet. Ofelia and Celegwen will surely understand, and you don't want them to see you like this.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3923370
>C) Trust Yech's hospitality enough to sleep in his cave. Ray is with you, and you know that the sorcerer wouldn't harm him. Plus, you can count on him to wake you up before the next bet. Ofelia and Celegwen will surely understand, and you don't want them to see you like this.
>>
>>3923370
>>C) Trust Yech's hospitality enough to sleep in his cave. Ray is with you, and you know that the sorcerer wouldn't harm him. Plus, you can count on him to wake you up before the next bet. Ofelia and Celegwen will surely understand, and you don't want them to see you like this.
>>
>>3923370
>C) Trust Yech's hospitality enough to sleep in his cave. Ray is with you, and you know that the sorcerer wouldn't harm him. Plus, you can count on him to wake you up before the next bet. Ofelia and Celegwen will surely understand, and you don't want them to see you like this.
BRO SLEEPOVER IN THE MANCAVE
WE GOT BOOZE
WE GOT EXPLOSIONS
WE GOT WAR STORIES
WE GOT DICE AND GAMBLING
WE GOT THOTS RIGHT OUTSIDE
EVERYTHING POSSIBLE FOR A GOOD TIME THAT RICHARD FUCKING DESERVES

>"So you- you don't regret it? I mean, how could you, you survived the fucking Catalyst- and-"
LMAO
Richard should just look Yech dead in the eyesockets at one point when he needs to drive home how badass he is, and just go "I didn't survive the Catalyst just once. I've survived it 28 times now, for every single time I've invoked Vengeance. And I'm still standing."
>>
>>3923359
>He's looking at you with something you've never seen before.
>You realize it's admiration.
Bro status is cemented.
>>3923361
>my wife called me Eric
lmao and his name is fucking Eric of all things

>>3923828
I don't think it would be out of character right now after that for Richard to give Yech a hug before he goes to sleep off the alcohol. Yech should also send another message from Richard to Ofelia and Gwen about what's going on before they sleep too.
We gotta try to do our best with the other two demon lords next, once we're done broing it up here. We have one week, and I don't know if there's an accurate way to check our time limit in-character as well as the amount of time we've already spent.
>>
>>3923828
>>3923833
Anon you are an absolute treasure, and I love you all for comments like this. Thanks for the extended discussion.

Leaving this open until the morning but just really wanted to show some appreciation.
>>
>>3923834
Look, I'm gonna be honest with you. The "28 Catalyst triggers survived" thing will either cause Yech to go maximum WHAT THE FUCK or maximum hype. Probably both. Would it be forcing the quest too much if Richard maybe asks Idonea for a way to contact Yech after he's done down here and gets the Relic from her? Like, there's only so much you can do in a quest before you off-rails it or autism becomes too strong and ruins things or turns people off - and I don't wanna be the one to fuck things up in that way. This quest is great as it is.
>>
>>3923837
Let me properly respond to all of this

You are so drunk right now that a hug is entirely not out of the question, and certainly in-character. A message would absolutely be fine, too.

You could always ask Yech how long you've been in his cave for. You know with certainty that you spent a fair bit of time in the abyss, as well as at least a day marching through Yech's forest. Coupled with the extended length of time you've been telling stories, drinking and eating with him for, it's been about two days in Idonea's domain. You don't know with certainty, but you could absolutely ask around to get a better idea of what's going on with the time. You could also observe the moon!

If you really think Yech would be an asset, you could legitimately just ask him to tail you out of there, for a way to keep in contact, or ask Idonea for the favor. He's established pretty firmly that people have had a way of keeping tabs on him in his cave, so there's likely something going on with that.

Made a note of all the other comments you guys have been making as well- don't worry, I haven't forgotten about Ofelia or Celegwen, either.
>>
>>3923754
>>3923756
>>3923828
>>3923833
>>3923837
Finally locking the vote, writing now!

>This quest is great as it is.
missed this
I love you anon, please don't ever change.
>>
>>3923873
"I don't mean any offenshe..."

You jerk your head upright, nearly drifting off. Looking around the cave, to Ray, and back to Yech, you offer yet another goofy smile. "Thish hasss been great. Y-you're great."

Your gaze settles on your robes. The collar is smeared with wine from Yech grabbing you, there's obviously a reek of liquor and skeletal demon lord all over your body, and you can feel your shirt underneath straining slightly from the huge meal you've had. Has your stomach ever not been flat? You don't want to sound ungrateful for Yech and what he's done for you, but your frown returns quickly. "I- I look awful. Thish ish a bad look for me. Can I s-shtay here? For the night...? Can you shend one more n-note to Ofelia and Shelegwen?"

It's almost as if the skull next to you is frowning as well. "You can't be serious."

"N-no. I'm sherious. They c-can't shee me like thish."

"You're fine. Really. Go knock 'em dead. Literally, for all I care."

"...am I making you unc-comfortable?"

"Very, you fucking creep. I don't want to babysit your ass, and I'm not letting a fucking psychopath sleep here with me, no matter how decent of a guest you make-"

"Lishten here-"

You stagger, standing upright for the first time in what has likely been hours. The floor entirely gives out from under you. You grasp onto the table adjacent to stay on your feet, finding your balance, and then whipping your head back around to Yech.

"I haven't harmed anyone- n-no demon in theshe ruinsh- that hashn't threatened my life firsht."

He stands up as well, coming almost a foot below you. He looks up to you, bristling, his voice somehow becoming higher pitched through his disgust. "Oh, yeah, sure. Sure you haven't. And I bet Malimos fucking around with you and the dog was absolutely deserving of-"

You spit back, eager to shut down his accusations. "Nothing. He wash far too powerful, too ancient- I've called on Vengeanshe sho many timesh before, Yech, and never like that."

There's a pause. He registers the implication, but asks anyways. "You what now?"

You lean in a bit, poking at your chest, absolutely loving how healthy it feels. You could really get used to this. You take even more satisfaction in your next few words.

"I didn't shurvive the Catalysht just onshe."

The demon lord actually leans back slightly as you move closer.

"I've shurvived it twenty eight timesh now, for every. Single. Time that I've invoked Vengeanshe." You prod yourself with each stressed syllable. He looks like he's going to pass out from the shock of what you're saying. You straighten up, looking down your busted face at Yech, taking advantage of your height and absolute pride as you stress the point home.

"And I'm s-still shtanding."

(1/4)
>>
>>3923912
You corner Yech, as he collapses into a chair, putting both skeletal hands to his head as he looks away from you.

"That's impossible. That's fucking impossible. You're lying."

You're far too drunk for this. You collapse in the chair across from him, but maintain your self-respect, staying upright and glaring at him with the utmost intensity.

"It'sh true. It hash to be. I'm s-still here. Unaffected by the Catalysht."

Yech is speechless.

The demon lord passes several moments in silence, simply digesting what this means.

He keeps glancing up at you, then back to his wine goblet, and back to you again.

"Excuse me for a moment-" he murmurs, walking over to one of the casks across the cave. His back turns to you for another moment as he fills a new pair of glasses with something smoking.

You watch him, intensely, as he sets down two flaming shots in between you both.

He raises one, looking to you with more admiration than you know you've ever had in your entire life.

He doesn't need to say anything.

You blow out the flame of your respective glasses together, taking the shots back and looking to each other- him with extreme respect, and you, for once, with some self-worth.

A few long minutes pass in silence as you both quietly appreciate the company and mutual understanding.

Yech finally breaks the quiet, leaning back, looking to the seemingly endless ceiling and stairs with his mouth agape. "Does anyone else know this shit? They have to, right? That doesn't just happen. That... that's never happened, has it? Even you're not that crazy. No one is that crazy. This is crazy."

"The chursch," you murmur. "The firsht many timesh were their doing. ...they f-forced me too. Mershy, too, but it was never as bad with Her."

"...that's really fucked up. How can you fucking stand to, you know?" The demon gestures to your holy symbol, your robes, your scars.

"They're shtill my f-family. ...the King and hish court knowsh t-too, of courshe. I wouldn't be able t-to hide, even if I w-wanted to."

A sudden, dark realization crosses over Yech's face. He puts a hand on your shoulder.

"You really wanted to die down here, too, didn't you? You sorry piece of shit-"

Angst lances your smile. "It'sh pretty obvioush, right?"

The bones on your shoulder tighten reassuringly. "I want to hear about it. All of it. Twenty-eight times. You're amazing. I can't believe you. I need to hear it. Let's get you a fucking bed and something that doesn't reek like death and good wine. I'm not letting you sleep until I hear all of it."

(2/4)
>>
>>3923913
The sorcerer produces a comfortable change of clothing and some proper sleeping accommodations while you see to Ray, and dictate another note for Ofelia and Celegwen. You stay up for several more hours, at least, painstakingly at first. Recalling and elaborating on all of the invocations is absolutely grueling to recall- you were only 11 when you crippled Edwin, and the very next year your "training" had start. Gradually, though, you warm up to the effort of talking about your prior encounters with the Catalyst. The demon is absolutely riveted with the ordeal, and altogether stops plying you with liquor after the second and third tale. He's riveted, barraging you with questions throughout the story, plying you instead with encouragement when it seems too difficult to go on.

By the end of it, your eyes are heavy, your words are faint, and you catch up to your time in the ruins. Yech is particularly disgusted with your invocation of both Flesh and Vengeance to carve up and create a living bridge out of a demon, but he's equally impressed that you didn't immediately die from the attempt.

"Her name was Nehliht, Richard. She wasn't a fucking carrion beetle. Looked like one, maybe. A cannibal and a twisted, overgrown bitch, maybe. ...but she had a name. Show some fucking respect."

"Nehliht... sshe... wassh more f-formiddable... than any of them... Gwen wassh sho mad... thought I wash crazy for what I did..."

"You are, Richard. You're a fucking lunatic. You shouldn't be alive. ...try and get some sleep. It's a fucking wonder that you still can."

"Wait-"

Before Yech can protest or pull away, you do something you've never done before.

You give him a hug.

The demon immediately stiffens, his bones clicking as you hear his spine straighten completely.

"What are you doing, Richard? What is this shit? I had a wife, Richard, and I don't care how much of a pervert you are-"

"I'm jusht hugging you. It'sh okay. Th-thank you."

"Stop it. I hate it. I hate you. Get some fucking sleep."

"...hug me b-back, Yech. Don't m-make me show you more Mershy."

"You sick fuck, you'd like that, wouldn't you-"

"You're shmiling, Yech. I can shee your teeth."

"My teeth are always visible, Richard, you fucking asshole."

"Don't make it twenty-nine timesh, Yech-"

"I haven't done shit to you- what are you going to do, show me a good time? "

You frown, pulling away, realizing that the demon lord is altogether too stubborn to return your fleeting affection. You straighten your new shirt- which fits properly- and offer a frown instead.

Yech stands back up, wiping his vest off as if you had soiled it. "I hear you sleep like the fucking dead. Confetti okay as an alarm, or do you prefer the sound of your victims' suffering...?"

"...neither."

"Confetti it is. Sweet fucking dreams."

You slide back under the covers, vaguely aware that you probably smell like liquor again thanks to hugging Yech.

You can't really care.

You'd consider this a success.

----

(3/4)
>>
>>3923915
A familiar, female scream tears through your thoughts as you're rudely awakened.

You bolt upright, sleep clinging to you hard. You still feel bloated, a little intoxicated, and nowhere near as alert as you should, given the severity of the noise that cut into your sleep.

Looking around with your pulse already racing, you instinctively reach for your holy symbol. It's cold to the touch, but reassuringly right where it should be around your neck.

There's another scream. A different female voice. You race to remember where you are, what's happened, why you're asleep in a bed and not on the floor of some stone nightmare.

There's an explosion, and something very colorful visible through the darkness for the briefest of moments as the cavern is illuminated.

Everything hits you at once.

You drank. You didn't show restraint. You gambled. You didn't trust in the Gods. You accepted the gift of a demon. You failed to thank Them for Their blessing. You overate. You didn't once think of how you might be disgracing their vessel. You slept in the home of a monster- who was more understanding of your needs and your humanity than anyone who's ever called you a friend.

You... you made a friend. You're healthier right now than you've been in years. There's no hangover, no lingering pain.

The cavern lights up again, and this time you see everything clearly. Ofelia and Celegwen are right at the entrance, covered in paint and strips of paper, dodging a huge barrage of explosives from Yech as he reclines in his throne. He looks entirely unamused, waving his hand about as he obviously detonates the various traps he's set without a second's hesitation. Ray is at the back of the cave, awoken by the explosions, but seemingly terrified of the noise. He's whining intensely, but you can hardly hear his complaints over the terror being emitted from the two women.

Finding your strength immediately, you stagger out of bed, and run towards the center of the cave where you know there's no danger. Your head doesn't swim, the floor doesn't give way. All of the water and food probably helped enormously with avoiding any lingering effects from the alcohol, though you have no idea how long you were asleep for. You find your voice, calling out quickly.

"Stop! Leave them alone!"

The skeleton grins at you- actually grins at you- and waves his hands down. The explosions stop.

"What? I fucking warned you. I warned them, too, but these bitches apparently don't know how to listen-"

Ofelia and Celegwen both stop their screaming, glaring at the demon lord as they catch their breath, obviously itching for a fight. They both have weapons drawn, looking haggard and altogether exhausted.

Did they not rest at all...?

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3923916
>A) Try to immediately explain to Celegwen and Ofelia that everything is fine, and to put away their weapons. This is fine. Everything was going fine! The skeletal demon lord with the trap filled cave, penchant for explosions and preoccupation with colored paper is fine. Did they not get your notes?

>B) Demand that Yech explain why he was attacking your friends, or scaring them half to death. Maybe it was both. It's really hard to tell with him.
>1) Demand that he apologize as well. This is uncalled for. You explained thoroughly to him that they are not a threat, and tried to convey the same thing in your note to them.
>2) Mediate a little. You know Yech is sketchy about women. Try to be understanding and not push either side.

>C) Shout at everyone to not kill each other while you take care of Ray. He's terrified of thunder, and has never heard an explosive before. You want to make sure he's okay more than anything. Everyone else can wait.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3923917
>>C) Shout at everyone to not kill each other while you take care of Ray. He's terrified of thunder, and has never heard an explosive before. You want to make sure he's okay more than anything. Everyone else can wait.
Best boi is the *ONLY* innocent bystander here, also i fucking love yech and i want to adopt him, cart him around in our backpack as a mobile bartender, maybe he can loosen the fuck up too. His drinks would make a fucking killing too. Also also im glad mercy is off our dick, bitch was getting clingy.
>>
>>3923917
This >>3923926
Rick and Eric's Excellent Adventure when? It'd probably be more like medieval times Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas though.
>>
>>3923939
>tfw the Father of your church hangs out in demon infested ruins with 2 heretics and a backpack demon.
Honestly fuck the church, i say we get a merry band of demon and believers to run a holy crusade against the clergy. Worst case scenario, the gods abandon us and we build a bar with eric and start a family with gwen and ray.
>>
>>3923926
>>3923939
>>3923945
>Rick and Eric's Excellent Adventure when? It'd probably be more like medieval times Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas though.
Time to watch that movie, probably.

>Also also im glad mercy is off our dick, bitch was getting clingy.
>Honestly fuck the church, i say we get a merry band of demon and believers to run a holy crusade against the clergy. Worst case scenario, the gods abandon us and we build a bar with eric and start a family with gwen and ray.

Heathen begone
Seriously though, you did notice the comments about the clergy, nobility and King being so far up Richard's ass that he came into the ruins to die, right?

Right?

>Best boi is the *ONLY* innocent bystander here, also i fucking love yech and i want to adopt him, cart him around in our backpack as a mobile bartender, maybe he can loosen the fuck up too. His drinks would make a fucking killing too.

I love him too, and I'm glad you're enjoying this so much. Going to leave this open for another minute or so but should be able to write a bit more today. On-boarding for a new job tomorrow, which is great, but might mean slightly fewer updates in the near future. Always will strive for 1-2 minimum a day though.
>>
>>3923926
>>3923939
Okay lads, going to lock the vote here. Appreciate the enthusiasm, as always. Writing now!
>>
>>3924051
As you're looking to Ofelia and Celegwen with no small measure of concern, you can't help but notice them tensing, bracing to attack the demon lord. Yech is on edge, literally leaning now over the edge of his throne and beginning to gesture again as they move-

"STOP!"

Your exclamation surprises you. There's no immediate pain accompany the outburst, no sudden flareup of an imminent headache or something worse.

It seems to surprise everyone else, too. Only Ray continues to make a sound, whining continuously with his ears and tail down. You glare at your friends, walking across the cavern towards your mastiff as you reprimand them. Your voice resumes its usual cadence, the old accent fading, no sign of a slur- only your usual, timid self. "Stop- stop fighting. I need to take care of Ray. He's terrified of thunder, and he doesn't know what's happening. Keep away from each other's throats for at least another minute. Please."

Celegwen immediately takes your word, lowering her staff and short sword and looking altogether ashamed of herself. It's not just the multi-colored paint and paper stuck to her, either. She seems confused, but she at least respects your wishes. Ofelia seems far more irate, still bristling. She stays her hand with a dagger still brandished.

Yech leers at you from across the cave, hollering as you kneel down next to Ray. "These other mutts are a lot less well-behaved, Richard! You should have kept the fucking leash on them-"

"Shut UP!" Ofelia practically screams, glaring between you all with extreme distress.

The two begin a shouting match at each other, somehow outdoing one another's insults with each passing second. You simply can't pay them any mind. Ray's practically crying.

You sit down entirely on the cave floor, murmuring to him with as much love as you can. "Ray. Easy. Easy, boy. It's okay. It's Richard. I'm here. Nothing's going to hurt you. Come here, big guy. It's alright."

You take the mastiff into your arms, holding him like a puppy despite his enormous size. He rests his head on your shoulder, still whining, while you try and calm him down. To your surprise, the yelling across the cave seems to have stopped.

"Hey. Easy. Good boy, Ray. That's right, you just calm down. Everything's fine. Ssshhh."

You make slow movements, trying not to startle your dog any further. In a matter of minutes, he's breathing normally again, and permitting you to scratch his ears. You're acutely aware that the rest of the cave is completely silent as you do so, but you don't take your attention off of your dog for a minute.

You do gingerly take his head off of your shoulder after awhile, easing him back off of your lap, and patting his side. The old scar from the shrouded demon's attack glares at you, but you try to offer the mastiff a smile. "It's okay, boy. Good boy, Ray. Stay. Easy. Rest. It'll be alright."

You turn back around, utterly floored by what you see.

(1/3)
>>
>>3924103
Mercy, it's so immature, you hardly know how to process it. Ofelia and Yech are engaged in a mockery of a staring contest, making increasingly complex and obscene gestures at once another. The demon lord has not left his throne, and the hollow sockets of where his eyes surely once were are glaring at the halfling with extreme discrimination. Ofelia is glaring back, her hair dripping with paint, her cloak plastered with confetti. You open your mouth to speak, but catching your eye on Celegwen derails your thoughts immediately. She's not looking at the staring match. She's looking at you, and her jaw is hanging open.

"Father?" She looks you up and down, unable to close her lips. "This- this is conjuration- extremely skilled conjuration- is this the demon's doing...?"

You cringe slightly away from the scrutiny on reflex. It takes you a moment to remember the events that transpired before your heavy sleep, and you can't help but glance down.

Your frame has entirely filled out. Gone is the emaciation, the bone, the sickly pallor. You look decidedly healthy, as healthy as you felt when you were utterly drunk- and heavier than you're comfortable with. It's fairly obvious that you're still bloated from binging so heavily on the sorcerer's work. Your limbs are still long and fairly thin, but your shirt is tight, and there's a fair bit of wine clinging to your newly conjured clothes from the hug you gave to Yech. The black fabric conceals the worst of the liquor, but you're doubly embarrassed, aware that you probably still smell of alcohol and the demon.

A crushing dread sinks into you as you struggle to say something in reply. Your mind is racing. You put a hand to your chest, against your holy symbol. Your skin is relatively firm against the cold, outstretched hands and soft fabric, but you're hardly comforted.

I haven't felt the Gods since I last invoked Mercy. I... I knew I was losing myself to Her, that I needed to do something-
Would Agriculture be able to work through me, after I failed to thank Her, and indulged in the gifts of a demon?
Would Flesh see fit to bless me, if I were to retool this form?
I feel fine- I feel fantastic- I wouldn't have even noticed if she hadn't said anything, but-

Ofelia snaps you out of your racing thoughts. You hadn't even noticed, as engrossed with them as you were, but she's walked over to you right alongside Celegwen. Yech is still reclining in his throne, seemingly respecting your request to hold off attacking. It doesn't stop his disgust with your present company, or the extremely rude gestures he keeps throwing at Ofelia.

The halfling shoots one back to the demon before giving you an incredibly strange look. Her words are stranger still. "I knew it."

You can't help but stammer, taking a step back, almost afraid of what she might say. "You- you knew what?"

(2/3)
>>
>>3924111
The halfling's look intensifies as she looks you up and down. "...that you'd look better with some weight on you."

There's heat coming to your face, and you can't stop it. She's looking at you with something you've never seen on a woman before. You put up your hands, trying to interrupt, to stop whatever she's going to say next, utterly flustered- but she isn't listening.

Ofelia points an accusing finger at Yech, but doesn't take her eyes off of you. "Did he do this?"

The demon lord lolls his head off the back of his throne, pouring more wine into his gaping maw as he leers at you all. His voice is cloying and altogether unamused as he shouts, "you're welcome, you fucking bitch!"

Celegwen looks skeptical. To your abject horror, she pokes your side with the end of her staff, keeping her distance as if your flesh could jump out and attack her at any moment. She sighs, deeply, and looks to you with a great deal of concern. "His skill as a conjurer is immense, but this- I can't help but worry- your... blessing, Father- what have you been doing here? You trusted this- this demon...? We waited for hours without any word... we suspected that you had been coerced into warding us away for longer-"

Ofelia simply will not stop staring at you. It's making you insanely uncomfortable, and Celegwen's questions aren't helping matters at all.

Yech is shooting you a gesture that looks like he wants to hang himself.

You can't help but share the sentiment.

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3924114
>A) Tell Ofelia and Celegwen, firmly, to show you some respect and that you're incredibly thankful to Yech. Try and explain- as tastefully as you can- what's transpired. It's obvious that no one takes your notes seriously.
>1) Tell them everything. Keep it brief, but don't omit anything important. They deserve to know why you're trusting a demon.
>2) Omit your extended dive into all of the times you invoked Vengeance. Celegwen seemed deeply offended the last time you had mentioned it, and you don't want to taint what was working out to be a very pleasant evening.
>3) Omit your retelling of the times you invoked Vengeance, and how much you had to eat and drink. You're pretty ashamed of yourself for showing so little restraint, now that you're sober. You don't want them to think any more poorly of you than they might already now.

>B) Curtly inform Ofelia and Celegwen that you have your reasons to trust Yech, and that his talent and hospitality should be evidence enough of that. They ignored your note and are showing you absolutely no respect. You can't afford to lose the tenuous relationship you've been building with this demon. The Relic is at stake.

>C) Regardless of how opposed Yech is to the Gods or them being invoked in his domain, you are rapidly approaching a panic attack at the thought of three deities spurning you after one night of mistakes. Reassure Ofelia and Celegwen that you'll explain everything as soon as you're out of Yech's lair, and insist on making your second gamble. You need to know how much time you're still stuck down here for, if any at all.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3924117
>>A) Tell Ofelia and Celegwen, firmly, to show you some respect and that you're incredibly thankful to Yech. Try and explain- as tastefully as you can- what's transpired. It's obvious that no one takes your notes seriously.
>>1) Tell them everything. Keep it brief, but don't omit anything important. They deserve to know why you're trusting a demon.
>>
>>3924121
this
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>>3924121
supporting.
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>>3924121
>>3924122
>>3924135
This is probably a record for fastest turnaround time for a vote in the entire quest, damn guys. Going to lock it here with the triple consensus while I have nothing better to do this afternoon!

Writing now.
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>>3924121
Thiiiiiiiis
Finally Richard found someone almost as fucked up as he is.
Also theme of Richard and Yech good times theme? https://youtube.com/watch?v=yhN8SdulOFc
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>>3924210
Ah, just missed the vote but it's all good.

I have this song as my phone ringtone and can't believe I didn't make the connection. Based.

Update in a sec!
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>>3924152
"...Celegwen." You put a hand to the end of her staff, firmly pushing it aside and looking at her with no small measure of embarrassment. "Stop it. This is unbelievable- Ofelia, you too. Please stop looking at me. ...I'm sorry for keeping you waiting. You know how important my mission here is. I can explain everything, just-"

You'd feel like a hypocrite to tell them to show any restraint towards you, so you don't finish the sentence. Instead, you glance over to Yech. He's making a scene on his throne, making such a rude gesture towards Ofelia that the heat in your face redoubles. "Yech!"

"What?! You saw the look that whore was giving you?!"

"Don't call her-"

"Get these bitches out of here, Richard, I'm not going to stand for it. No fucking way. You're alright, but they've got to go!"

Ofelia's fury at Yech's motions- he's doing something with his hips now- seems to reach its peak. "Some fuckin' lord you are! I've seen orcs with better manners than you- you-!"

She fumbles, a series of profanities so explicit coming forth from her that you try to shut them out. A quick Mercy under your breath gets you through the worst of it. She finally finishes, utterly confused by your exchange with the demon and by the entire situation you all seem to be in. The halfling looks up at you, despite the request you just made.

You cut her off, unable to deal with the heat in your face and your extreme embarrassment. "Ofelia. I mean it. Stop looking at me. You're making me extremely uncomfortable. I'm still the same person that you saw yesterday. Please show me the same respect you always have." You glance back to Celegwen, to her staff, to the look on her face. "That goes for you as well, Celegwen. ...I shouldn't have to say this..."

With an extremely heavy sigh, you put a hand to your temple. There's a dull headache. "...this is a demon, not a halfling lord, and not an orc. He showed me an extraordinary amount of hospitality and has healed me with as much skill as I could hope for. Please try to understand. Please let me explain."

You repeat the request, shouting over to Yech. He seems glued to his chair, dripping as it is with wine. "Yech! Permit me to at least explain what's happened to my friends. ...please."

He gives you a motion that says "stick it up your ass, as it's much nicer now and better suited to that sort of thing," but he doesn't interrupt. Celegwen gasps slightly, tensing, as he begins to make another elaborate gesture- you mistake it for another obscenity at first, before realizing he's produced an endless stream of wine directly over his mouth. Yech laughs through it, seeming entirely preoccupied for the moment.

(1/2)
>>
>>3924219
Real talk, Flesh would be giving a huge godly thumbs up or sign of approval to Richard for making some much needed mass gains after eating all that food. Now he has actual muscles to build up.
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>>3924230
You kneel down, giving Ray a little more attention as you explain everything to your friends. You keep it brief, but there's no punches pulled. You get into the heavy drinking, your wager with the demon lord, your failed gamble, your overeating, the demon's capabilities as a sorcerer, his unexpected kindness, how he respected your encounters with the Catalyst (all 28 of them), and how he even left you unharmed while you slept with your defenses completely down.

By the time you're finished, Yech can't help but interject with a slow clap from the opposite end of the cave. He wipes a few droplets of wine from his eyes as if they were tears, then leers at Ofelia while sucking off the remainder. Ofelia groans, rolling her eyes and glaring at him. She's finally respecting your wishes, keeping her gaze off of you as she can't help but reply. "So... he's all bark and no bite, is what you're saying?"

Celegwen has been frowning the entire time you've been talking, and she finally speaks up. "No, Ofelia. His power is tremendous. This- what he's done for Father Anscham- would kill a lesser sorcerer several times over. This is no mere hospitality. I fear he wants something. Perhaps he wishes to merely display his power, to threaten us- or-"

>A) "...or he genuinely means well." Celegwen might actually be a little too slow to trust for this development. Reassure both of your friends that the demon means no harm. Vouch for him, if you have to. You didn't skip out on a single pertinent detail- why are your friends still so on edge?

>B) "...or he's trying to sabotage my connection to the Gods." You hadn't even considered during your time with Yech that he had anything but honest intentions. ...but now that your head is clearing, the entire situation is making you extremely uncomfortable. Is he trying to ruin your body and immerse you in sin to keep you from invoking Them?

>C) "...or he's very capable at taking up my time." You were given a week to complete Idonea's task, and you have no idea what Beltoro's or Remigius' lairs are even like. By your best reckoning, it's been two days already. Is Yech intentionally wasting your time, and keeping you away from your friends to draw out your stay in his domain?

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3924238
>>A) "...or he genuinely means well." Celegwen might actually be a little too slow to trust for this development. Reassure both of your friends that the demon means no harm. Vouch for him, if you have to. You didn't skip out on a single pertinent detail- why are your friends still so on edge?
All of the demons down here are fucking bored, if he wanted to do anything to us he would've done it a bunch of times over.
>>
>>3924231
I don't think I stressed this hard enough, but Gods and demons are entirely opposed to one another. Yech's complete distaste for even the mention of them is one end of the spectrum- and working with a demon, associating with a demon, accepting a gift from a demon and voluntarily sinning over the course of several hours with him and then sleeping under his roof and the like is all a pretty fucking huge offense. I am trying to outline this with some in-character anxiety and the last few prompts to stress that it's not exactly groovy under most circumstances, and hope I wasn't entirely misleading. You guys were starving to death, out of supplies, and had no reason not to trust Yech. I just want to make sure you're all aware that associating with him could be bad news for how well the Gods look on you.

Furthermore, anyone- anyone from the clergy knowing of your cooperation with demons would have you labeled as a heretic and blasphemer of the absolute highest caliber. Not that you give a shit about their opinion, but also worth mentioning.

I assumed this was obvious but I really want to be clear.

Up until this point in the quest you've either attempted to kill every demon you've seen on sight or negotiated with it in some way. Malimos was the most civil. ...Idonea's was not. Either way, this is the first time you've ever voluntarily befriended one and I wanted to be totally transparent about what that means.
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>>3924275
How does repentance work, last time we prayed with some candles and it worked, does the church have any equivalence between sin and what is needed to repent for it.
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>>3924289
You guys grew up in the church and have never done so much as gamble or smoke. You've had a few benders at a tavern or two, as alcohol isn't explicitly banned by the Church, but it's frowned upon to overindulge. I have tried very hard to make sure that your tenets are clear any time an opportunity arises to break them. To summarize:

You are expected to exercise restraint, to speak truthfully, to heal, and to protect. It's a wide umbrella that most of the clergy does not fall under. You are not most of the clergy. Your ass is normally so holy that you can dual-wield deities, stay with your Goddess for hours or withstand the sight of a Relic.

Breaking these tenets is to sin. This isn't exhaustive- but I really really want to be clear since I'm worried you guys didn't understand despite me mentioning this throughout the quest.

To NOT show restraint: becoming heavily intoxicated, overeating, extreme displays of emotion. You experienced this with the shrouded demon, and have expressed fear about it every single time you've had an emotional outburst. You've fasted the entire quest practically, and the one time you drank heavily was tempered pretty hard by the intense contact you had with Mercy the very night before.

To NOT speak truthfully. To your credit, you guys have never opted to lie in the entirety of Catalyst Quest. Not even once. You're honest to an extreme, often opting to not even lie by omission.

To NOT heal. Bringing harm, intentionally, to another human being is directly contrary to Mercy's tenets. That's the domain of Vengeance, and you have never tried to channel them simultaneously. It's widely regarded as impossible to do that, but you've managed to do so on three occasions now.

To NOT protect. Again, you've been utterly self-sacrificing in every conceivable way, even risking your life and putting yourself through hell to save as much as your pet dog. You put your neck out there without question at the first opportunity. To act with cowardice, to fail to shield someone, to turn a blind eye to suffering are all enormous sins for the church of Mercy.

The other churches follow a similar pattern. Agriculture is a Goddess of the harvest. It's typical practice to thank her before eating, to accept only Her blessing. Using magic to save a failing crop, burning her works, or accepting food from a demon are all sins against Her.

Richard has been neglecting himself out of necessity for most of the quest, as it's hard for him to eat or drink. Normally, Flesh would be delighted for you all to try and make some gains. It's just the matter of it coming from a demon.

Yech is a demon. He is affable, and he clearly doesn't want to kill you, but he is obviously ancient, in ruins at the bottom of the world, and spurred you on to spend an evening participating in activities that are unbecoming of a priest.

Please let me know if you have any other questions, I want to be transparent and for you to make clear, informed decisions.
>>
>>3924335
I hit the character limit.

Repentance works on devotion to the Gods. This is absolutely 100% something you guys can do at any time. I gave you two prompts since you woke up if you wanted to get some space, wrap up your activities with Yech, find some time to pray, reconsider your position with the Gods, etc.

At any time you can try and commune with them. Usually it's insufficient to merely ask for forgiveness- you have to demonstrate their tenets over time. Most humans never reach the level of connection that Richard has to the Gods with even a single one.

You guys haven't destroyed a lifetime of devotion with a single night of sin, but it's something to actively consider if you have downtime or just want to ever take a moment to reflect on it. I can go way more in depth on this, too, but I hope it's more self-explanatory.
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>>3924238
>>A) "...or he genuinely means well." Celegwen might actually be a little too slow to trust for this development. Reassure both of your friends that the demon means no harm. Vouch for him, if you have to. You didn't skip out on a single pertinent detail- why are your friends still so on edge?
>>
>>3923917
>>C) Shout at everyone to not kill each other while you take care of Ray. He's terrified of thunder, and has never heard an explosive before. You want to make sure he's okay more than anything. Everyone else can wait.
>>
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>>3924231
Forgive the extremely crude MS paint job on this body type chart, but thought I'd give a little extra feedback on this. You guys totally have enough to work with right now for some solid gains. All because you took some help from a demon doesn't mean Flesh will forsake you- it's just going to be a bit of work to get to where you want to be. Richard's a really tall guy, so you should be able to bulk and cut to good effect if you actually set out to do it.
>>
>>3924238
>>A) "...or he genuinely means well." Celegwen might actually be a little too slow to trust for this development. Reassure both of your friends that the demon means no harm. Vouch for him, if you have to. You didn't skip out on a single pertinent detail- why are your friends still so on edge?

here we go
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>>3924247
>>3924399
>>3924519
Let's gooooo! Locking the vote, writing now.
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>>3924531
"...or he genuinely means well." You finish Celegwen's sentence with a sigh, looking to her earnestly. "Why are you so distrustful of him, after hearing all of this? If Yech had wanted to harm me, he could have- would have done so by now."

You give Ray's ears one more scratch before standing properly upright again. The elf looks up to you, her face wrought with concern. "I want to trust your judgement, Father. I do not doubt that you were able to win over this demon as quickly as you have, but..."

Ofelia can't help but spit out, "but he's a fuckin' creep, and the smell of wine and somethin' dead is all over you. It doesn't sit right." The halfling's expression softens, as her eyes dart over you, catches herself, and settles on Ray. "I'm glad yer okay, though. Really. I was worried sick out there."

"Did you get any rest? Anything at all? I explicitly told him to send you aid-"

Celegwen frowns. "We did not trust any of it, and made due with the remaining rations. ...it did not help that I was inebriated."

Picking a few pieces of confetti out of her hair, Ofelia scowls at Yech, sneering, "glad you two had some fun, at least."

You want to try and reassure your friends further, but you're entirely at a loss for words. The animosity between the three of them seems to have only intensified, now that the women are aware that you were drinking and eating like a King while they waited on the forest floor. There's still an attempt at reconciliation. "I'll find a way to make it up to you both. Thank you for waiting as long as you did. I know you must have been worried- but- really..."

The demon lord cuts short his everlasting wine fountain, wiping himself down uselessly and rolling off of his throne onto the floor. He's clearly putting on a show for the women, which is not helping matters at all. It really takes the steam out of your sails, and your sentence ends lamely. "...everything is fine."

With a nasally drawl, Yech calls out once again. "Hey! Sleeping beauty! Confetti was right on time. Let's do this shit- get over here and we'll go again. And get the broads out of here, for the last fucking time!"

You can't help but look to Ofelia and Celegwen. It isn't for permission- you can make your own decisions- you're just worried about the strain on them. Between the paint, confetti, hunger gnawing at their faces and their obvious exhaustion, you feel like an abysmal friend to leave them so high and dry.

(Options in next post)
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>>3924554
>A) Ask Yech if he can do anything further to provide the women with some rest and shelter while you gamble again. They're heathens, and have nothing to fear from your new friend. You're confident you can convince the demon more easily to help them out than you can to convince them of his good intentions.
>1) Ask for him to get them some proper supplies for them- food, water, and shelter- while they wait outside.
>2) Ask for him to permit them to stay in his cave, just for now. It might be faster and easier to keep everyone together.

>B) Try to reassure Ofelia and Celegwen that you won't take much longer. Ask them as politely as you can to bear with you and to wait outside. No matter how much you like Yech, you have places you need to be, and you want to get back to them as quickly as you're able. You'll figure out your situation with your future survival once you know if you're free to leave the demon's domain.

>C) Write-in.
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>>3924555
>>A) Ask Yech if he can do anything further to provide the women with some rest and shelter while you gamble again. They're heathens, and have nothing to fear from your new friend. You're confident you can convince the demon more easily to help them out than you can to convince them of his good intentions.
>>1) Ask for him to get them some proper supplies for them- food, water, and shelter- while they wait outside.
"what kind of lord only treats half his guests right? Besides, you said youd never mess with another mans dog... and look what you did."
>>
>>3924555
>A1) Ask for him to get them some proper supplies for them- food, water, and shelter- while they wait outside.
>>
>>3924555
>A) Ask Yech if he can do anything further to provide the women with some rest and shelter while you gamble again. They're heathens, and have nothing to fear from your new friend. You're confident you can convince the demon more easily to help them out than you can to convince them of his good intentions.
>A1) Ask for him to get them some proper supplies for them- food, water, and shelter- while they wait outside.
>>
>>3924555
>A) Ask Yech if he can do anything further to provide the women with some rest and shelter while you gamble again. They're heathens, and have nothing to fear from your new friend. You're confident you can convince the demon more easily to help them out than you can to convince them of his good intentions.
>A1) Ask for him to get them some proper supplies for them- food, water, and shelter- while they wait outside.
Please step out girls. The BOYS are gonna roll.
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>>3924559
>>3924568
>>3924583
>>3924756
Alright lads, locking the vote here. Writing now.
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>>3924976
The apology is already written all over your face before you start to speak. Ofelia groans again, interjecting before you get the chance to ask her to leave. "You've gotta be kiddin' me. Seriously, Richard-"

"Please, try to be understanding, Ofelia. I'll do everything I can to get you both... more..."

You look around the cave again. It's quite nice, despite the lack of traditional walls or paneling. The demon lord's taste is actually phenomenal. With a wince, you don't quite want to finish your sentence.

These are the most comfortable accommodations I've seen since we've entered the ruins. We aren't going to get much better than this.

Ofelia's frown deepens. "Anythin' is better than bein' stuck with this jerk. Come on, Gwen. We don't need to stick around to see anymore of this-"

The elf holds up a finger, shushing the smaller woman with a single gesture. It's not a spell, but it might as well be.

"Are the mutts GONE yet, Richard?!" Yech screeches, laughing hysterically as he sets up a more formal gambling area for you both.

Ofelia lets out an incredibly bothered sound, despite Celegwen's efforts to stop her protest. Still, the sorceress glances to you. You know it's not to scrutinize you. She merely looks concerned.

"Father, will you permit me to dissipate the liquor on and around on your clothing, before we go? Forgive me for being so disrespectful, but- it is entirely unbecoming of you."

There's little heat left in your face, having been replaced with a lingering sense of shame as your friends continue to lay into your decisions.

She's absolutely right.

"...go ahead, Celegwen. Thank you."

There's a quick tap of the end of her staff, gently laying against your shoulder before pulling the liquor up and off of your new clothes. Impressed, you pull slightly at your collar, confirming that it's cleaner than when you first got it.

Celegwen offers you a sincere smile, tilting her head slightly, paint still dripping from her hair. "I will see to both of us once we have left. Please be careful, Father. I am sure this will all be worth the effort."

You frown a fair bit, walking over to Yech and gesturing to the two women. To your delight, Ray picks himself up and gingerly walks behind you. Yech's groans at your approach is immediate and intense.

"Talk about needy. What the fuck do they want now? Another sleepover? Get your ass over here, we've got business-"

"Yech..." You look down at the drunken lord, who's laid out a far nicer table and set of drinks than the previous day. Your stomach turns slightly at the thought of imbibing anything else, but you press on. "My friends were too intoxicated to accept your hospitality last night."

"All of you sorry sacks were! Isn't that just great? Here-"

(1/4)
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>>3925223
He presses a glass of beer towards your hands, but you allow him to hold it aloft, looking back to Ofelia and Celegwen with understandable concern. "I'm imploring you, as our host, to please provide them with the bare minimum to survive. Halflings and elves have different needs from humans, Yech, but we all need food, water, and shelter. It's been weeks for me, and months for them without."

Impossibly, the skeleton's eye sockets narrow. He seems to be sneering at Ofelia again. You continue, trying to press your point. "I know you wouldn't turn a blind eye to someone in your domain. ...not even women."

"You're an idiot, Richard. They can't be fucking trusted. These dumb bitches are going to tear up my whole fucking garden- I give them an inch, you watch them take a fucking mile!"

He's complaining, drinking- but in his free hand, the sorcerer is almost immediately conjuring something new. You almost feel a bit bad for pressing the issue so firmly. Yech may be quick to whine, but he seems eager to host you and your friends now that he's laid eyes on you all.

Is this a limitation of his domain...? Was the rain and mist actually the most he could manage?

The subtleties of his spells are entirely lost on you, and they are nowhere near as elegant or enchanting as Celegwen's. Your eyes climb along the walls of the cavern, adjusting to the darkness more readily. It was very hard to tell at first, and altogether impossible to last night, but the mist seems to be gone. Not only that, but there appears to be a fair number of spiderwebs along the walls- especially near the towering slope leading off into the horizon.

Yech coughs, wet and obviously to only get your attention. He likely doesn't have lungs anymore, but he sounds as if he's lost one.

He's conjured a pink tent, covered in small woodland animals, and a huge stack of vegetables. Alongside it is an assortment of chopped wood, tinder, and several flasks of what you hope contains water. Everything has an obscene amount of pink and white ribbons on it. Ofelia shouts from across the cave, "you have got to be shittin' me-!"

"Don't just stare at it, Richard, be a fucking gentleman."

You almost laugh at the suggestion coming from such a crude demon, but you straighten your face, grabbing onto the supplies quickly and gesturing for Ofelia and Celegwen to follow you outside. Ray doesn't need any urging to snatch up a piece of tinder wood from you, drooling over it with extreme satisfaction as you both move towards the exit.

The women seem stunned, again, and follow you while murmuring between themselves. You don't particularly care to strain to make out their words.

(2/4)
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>>3925233
As flustered as you are by everyone's continued harassment, it's hard to not notice how much stronger you feel. Helping Ofelia, as light as she is, was a grueling ordeal the day before. Hiking for a solid day was worse yet. Right now, though, you're able to almost effortlessly escort the collection of camping materials Yech has conjured. There's wind in your lungs to spare by the time you help to settle your friends outside of the cave.

Ofelia starts to fuss almost as soon as you're out of the demon's line of sight. She makes a point of taking a handful of tinder from you, immediately setting to making a fire with a huff. The knowledge that her snappiness and that she's having to actively work to keep her eyes off of you is more than confusing.

Is this something I should feel happy about...?

You settle on not dignifying her continued girlish behavior with a response.

Isn't she older than me...?

Celegwen helps you unpack the remainder of the supplies at the closer camp site, and looks to you with legitimate appreciation. "Thank you, Father. We will be alright. Do not hesitate to contact us if there is any other delay- or anything more sinister."

"Really, Celegwen, I appreciate the concern. ...but Yech isn't as terrible as he seems. I hope we can all find a way to reconcile this soon. ...and- of course, I will let you know if there's any other trouble."

You bow your head slightly, murmuring almost too quietly for anyone around you to hear. "May the Gods watch over you both."

As you walk away, almost able to pretend that you're taking Ray out for a stroll, you can't help but overhear both women commenting on having a headache. You'd pray for them- but you have more pressing matters to address.

Stepping back into the cave, a massive explosion of confetti drops from the ceiling onto you. Ray jumps up, trying to eat at the colored paper, but it disappears within moments. With absolutely no amusement, you settle down next to Yech once more.

He parodies your expression, pulling at his bones as if to emulate your eyebags. "Why the long face, handsome?"

His sarcasm isn't lost on you. ...is it sarcasm? I can't remember the last time I looked in a mirror.

He drops the grimace, and leers across the table, slamming two dice in between you. "You got some hair up your ass after your girlfriends came back? Let's loosen you up a little bit." Two drinks quickly follow, spilling slightly onto the fine tablecloth.

The demon looks skyward, even though it's terribly dark and there has been no natural light in his domain since you've entered it. "Time's a wasting."

"How much time has it been, exactly," you ask, more than a little nervous about how long you've been with the demon lord for.

(3/4)
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>>3925246
"From what I heard, you came down here half a fucking day before stepping into my cozy little hellhole. Another day and a half to get your sickly ass through my woods, probably no thanks to the bitches- and another day here with me! You sleep like the fucking dead, alright. Can you hear it, Richard? The sands? Falling, carrying you away from me!"

Yech puts a hand to his temples, dramatic, as always. He follows it up quickly with a retching sound, straightening his bones upright and staring into you with the utmost seriousness.

"I suppose I do even disgust myself. ... look, you've got four days left for Idonea's fucking errand. I could wait another eternity for all I care, but, well, you know how she is."

The glass next to you fizzes. You were so preoccupied with your angst over Ofelia's and Celegwen's behavior, you had scarcely noticed it. The mixture is a deep burgundy, with a frothing head that's poured perfectly. You don't have much of an eye for drinks, but even to your untrained gaze, it's evident that this is something strong and terribly high quality. Yech leers at you, seeing you eyeing the glass.

"Ante-up."

"Can't it be something lighter-"

"Fuck off."

>These options are mutually exclusive. The majority vote will decide the outcome of this prompt.

>A) You promised the demon that you'd match him drink for drink, but you're not entirely certain what this bet entails. Maybe your memory is just fuzzy, but are you expected to drink every time you roll- and whatever he puts in front of you? This isn't fair, there's simply no way you can keep up if you don't win outright. Buy yourself a few minutes to breathe, at least. You're still trying to digest everything from yesterday.

>B) In for a penny, in for a pound. Stick to the terms the demon has laid out for you. You've dealt with a lot worse than an overzealous glutton before. Deal with him boozing you up, and start gambling. You'll make it up to the Gods later. Right now, your mind is on your mission- and you are not going to let anyone stop you from serving Mercy, no matter what you might have to do along the way.
>>
>>3925262
Question, does getting Mercy's Relic as a big fucking mission to her regain points in Richard's favor with the Gods? Or does he still gotta put in work to regain some cred back with them? If Mercy's Relic recovery makes up for all the sinning he had to do to get it, does it even the scales or tip them the better side?
>>
>>3925277
It's absolutely impossible to say. Not only do you have no information on the Relic, what it is, what it does, or why you need it- beyond Mercy's words directly to you- there isn't exactly a tangible point based system for how to quantify your sin. There's so many questions you could ask around about!

This is a narrative quest, and I strongly would like to avoid saying "you earned 5 Mercy points and need to spend them to eliminate your 3 sin points. I hope I'm not being frustratingly vague, but this is something I hope you guys can explore through the quest, exploration of the Gods, and what their blessing actually means for you in the context of the world, rather than spelling out exactly what you need to do for you.

Having said all of that, it is safe to assume that a divine quest bestowed upon you by the Goddess of the church you've spent your life serving would make up for a fair amount of sin. The more important question is if you can withstand it, if you give into days of sin, given that you couldn't even look on the Relic without having invoked Mercy first.
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>>3925262
>A) You promised the demon that you'd match him drink for drink, but you're not entirely certain what this bet entails. Maybe your memory is just fuzzy, but are you expected to drink every time you roll- and whatever he puts in front of you? This isn't fair, there's simply no way you can keep up if you don't win outright. Buy yourself a few minutes to breathe, at least. You're still trying to digest everything from yesterday.
Ask for the fruity ones. Maybe Richard is inexperienced enough that he thinks just because a drink is fruity that the alcohol content is lower. It's not indicative. At all. A truth he'll be finding out the hard way :^)
>>
Love you guys to death, going to finally get some sleep. New job starting tomorrow so I'll be back mid-afternoon then (EST). Vote is open until I return
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>>3925262
>>B) In for a penny, in for a pound. Stick to the terms the demon has laid out for you. You've dealt with a lot worse than an overzealous glutton before. Deal with him boozing you up, and start gambling. You'll make it up to the Gods later. Right now, your mind is on your mission- and you are not going to let anyone stop you from serving Mercy, no matter what you might have to do along the way.
Mercy didnt raise a pussy
>>
>>3925262
>B) In for a penny, in for a pound. Stick to the terms the demon has laid out for you. You've dealt with a lot worse than an overzealous glutton before. Deal with him boozing you up, and start gambling. You'll make it up to the Gods later. Right now, your mind is on your mission- and you are not going to let anyone stop you from serving Mercy, no matter what you might have to do along the way.
>>
>>3925358
>>3926233
>>3926264
Locking the vote here while the tie is split, be home within the hour
>>
>>3926292
Back, writing now.
>>
>>3926306
Somewhere, deep in your soul, you long for a fruitier, possibly less alcoholic drink. You grimace, and looking straight at Yech, you swipe up the glass before you and quaff the entire thing without any further hesitation.

It's delicious. The beer you're used to is watered down, thin and devoid of any flavor. This is rich, smooth, and full-bodied. You would be lying to yourself if you said you didn't enjoy it. The demon lord empties his mug far faster, but cheers you on as you finish the entire glass before you.

Slamming it back down onto the table and wiping the foam off of your face, you try to wait at least another moment to catch your breath. To your surprise, your head doesn't immediately buzz. The room isn't quite tilting, though you're warm and already uncomfortably full. Part of you suspects that the entire mug contained less alcohol than some of the shots Yech gave to you yesterday, but it's hard to tell.

At least the last bits of sleep have left you. Gesturing to Ray, you command the mastiff to go and rest a bit of a distance away from you. It's not that you're worried about him getting hurt- you're simply self-conscious of your best friend watching you sin. You mean it when you murmur, "the church didn't raise me to be a coward, Yech. Let's get this over with."

"That's more fucking like it! Come on, then," Yech drawls, sliding the dice firmly over towards you and already conjuring more drinks. "Let's see if you have some better luck today. That last roll was such shit, I'm still laughing about it-"

The grimace you direct at Yech is enough to get him to stop teasing, and the absolute lack of hesitation as you sweep up the dice silences him further. You mean business.

> Roll 2d6.
> 7 or 11 on the first roll is an immediate win.
> 2, 3, or 12 on the first roll is an immediate loss.
> All other results- 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10- if rolled must then be repeated before a win or loss condition is met. i.e. if you roll a 10, a 10 must be rolled again, then a 7 or 11 to win.
> You will have to drink each time you wish to roll.
> This vote will remain open until a win or loss condition is met.
>>
Rolled 5, 6 = 11 (2d6)

>>3926315
>>
>>3926315
MERCY GUIDE MY DICE
>>
>>3926318
THE DICE ARE MERCIFUL

Vote is locked. That's an immediate win.
>>
>>3926318
>>3926315
>>3926319
Thank fuck my dice didnt roll lmao.
>>
>>3926321
Mercy, guide these dice!

With a no small measure of dread, you cast the dice before you.

A five. Your heart skips into your throat.

A six.

A win.

You don't know how to feel. You don't know what to say. You're smiling- you're smiling harder than you think you ever have. But you're not entirely sure what to do.

Yech is, shockingly, a great sport about it. He leans over, goes to pat you on your shoulder, and then seems to think twice about it. Maybe he realizes how little you appreciate being covered in wine, but he pulls back, drawling, "not bad, kid. Not bad! That's a fucking win. Maybe you fudged yesterday to spend some quality time with my ass? Ahahaha!"

You're still smiling. You don't really know what to say. Mercy, does it feel good to win at something.

"Listen, you're free to go. I'll clear a path through the woods for you back to the door, should be a lot smoother that way. You need anything? Some drinks for the road? Another shirt? That one isn't doing you any favors, I might have gone a little overboard- don't really know how to fucking restrain myself- here-"

Before you can protest, Yech is already setting to conjuring you a small pile of supplies. Your smile doesn't waver, though you're still at a loss for words. He plies you with another change of clothing, some flasks of water and a small stack of packaged, dried food that seems like it will keep well.

You both look to each other- you make no effort to go and change or ready yourself to leave. You're not going anywhere just yet. Despite loading you up with traveling gear, Yech seems to share the same sentiment- he's lounging back, now idly staring at the ceiling and knocking back more beer without saying any further good-byes.

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3926337
>A) Cut to the chase. You want him on your side.
>1) Ask him if there's any way that you can contact him after you leave. He seems to be in touch with Malimos, and knows a good deal of what goes on in the ruins. The least you can do is try to keep in touch once you're gone.
>2) Ask him to come with you, out of his cave, and back to the abyss. His skills are incredible, and he would make a valuable ally. He might not want to leave so readily, but maybe seeing Idonea's girls will be enough incentive to drag him out for awhile.
>3) Ask him to travel with you. It's a long shot- he obviously hates Celegwen and Ofelia, but it might worth asking. Maybe there's something you can say that will convince him. (Write-in how you'd like to try and persuade him to leave with you.)

>B) Thank him, profusely, for everything that he's done for you. See if you can do a little more for each other before you leave.
>1) Offer to stay for a little while longer, to share a few more stories and enjoy each other's company before you part. It's obvious Yech has never had a friend before- time is your most precious resource right now. This is the most generous thing you can do for him.
>2) Ask him if he can tell you anything about Beltoro, Remigius, Idonea, or any other demons you might encounter. He's a loose talker, and clearly wants to help you. It will give you a few more moments to make up your mind, at least.

>C) Good-byes have been terribly easy for you, for all of your life. You don't want to hurt Yech anymore than he already has been. This is a demon, and no matter how well he's treated you, you have to remember your position and the life waiting for you once you leave the ruins. A life with Mercy. Thank him for everything, sincerely- but bid him good-bye, and set back out into the forest.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3926337
>A) Cut to the chase. You want him on your side.
>1) Ask him if there's any way that you can contact him after you leave. He seems to be in touch with Malimos, and knows a good deal of what goes on in the ruins. The least you can do is try to keep in touch once you're gone.
>>
>>3926340
>>A) Cut to the chase. You want him on your side.
>2) Ask him to come with you, out of his cave, and back to the abyss. His skills are incredible, and he would make a valuable ally. He might not want to leave so readily, but maybe seeing Idonea's girls will be enough incentive to drag him out for awhile.
>>
>>3926340
>>3926347
>>3926352
Before I cast my vote, I have a question. Is it possible for us to maybe have Yech with us for the rest of Idonea's trials as a guest party member, then ask for a way to keep in touch with him after we get Mercy's Relic and we're all done here? Him helping against Beltoro and Remigius would be Richard getting help from a demon, which the Gods would seriously frown upon. To avoid further sin and shit, Yech would be with us in a hands-off sort of capacity, providing running commentary and being good company, if possible?
I don't want him to come with us out to the surface, not yet. The time will come in the future when we need to assemble a crew, and he WILL be on it mark my fucking words. Now is NOT that time though.

What do you guys think?
>>
>>3926382
I don't want to trample on any discussion, just want to let you know it's certainly possible! He could always disagree with the proposition, but he's been seriously inclined to help you out so far, and having him for company would probably be just fine if he isn't actively interfering with prayer. Which he does hate. ...something to keep in mind. He's all about helping out Richard, though, so totally worth a shot.
>>
>>3926382
i think the best we can do is have him hang around us and then just keep in touch to get info on the going ons of the ruins, malimos can help with that too. As for the sinning part we are already a foot in might as well reap all of the benefits, we are so close it doesnt make sense not to. This mission is really really fucking important bc mercy herself gave it to us, colluding with the enemy is an evil we need and can handle
>>
>>3926340
>>3926397
Then I'll back this idea >>3926399
>>
>>3926399
i'd like to back this idea as well - worth a shot, anyways.
>>
>>3926347
>>3926352
>>3926382
>>3926399
>>3926405
>>3926438
Okay guys, going to go with these ideas you all are backing and get to writing! Vote is locked.
>>
>>3926449
The silence that hangs between you and Yech isn't uncomfortable. It's rather pleasant, to be in the company of someone who only cares to look at you when he has something pertinent to say, with respect and no small measure of honesty.

I have to say something. I can't leave another ally behind. Yech may be a demon, but he's my friend. He respects me. He trusts me.

Mercy gave me this mission- and I've literally followed it to the ends of the Aerth. No amount of evil should be able to hinder my path. No matter what this demon has done, or what he is now, I need his help. I know I can handle him.

...that goes for no matter what I've done, either. I've known members of the clergy who have done far worse than a few nights of gambling or binging, and they haven't been forsaken by the Gods. Father Pevrel certainly has a worse figure than I do now- and I'm much better off for it, anyways. I would have died, at the rate I was going. No, I've gotten myself in this far. It doesn't make any sense to not reap the benefits of all of my work.

"Yech-" you start, looking to the demon, your frown subsiding.

You were so deep in thought, you hadn't even noticed that the demon lord had already grabbed a bag of things. He grins at you.

"Don't get any ideas. I needed to get out of this shithole anyways. It's been a few ages, hasn't it? I could stand to air out. I can practically feel the fucking mold on my bones. Here-"

You have a bag shoved at you. It's black, with gold buckles. They're not garish, just small and extremely tasteful. You can't help but admire it- it's lighter than the backpack you've been carrying, but looks to be capable of holding much more.

"Get your shit packed up and don't fucking thank me."

A fair amount of genuine laughter falls from you, as you start to put away all of the supplies Yech has conjured. "I was... going to ask if you would like to accompany me back to Idonea's domain."

"That old, crotchety bitch? What for? I've got everything I need right here."

"...when is the last time you saw anyone, Yech? Face to face."

"I'm looking at a pretty beat up mug right now-"

You frown back at Yech, not letting him ignore the question.

"...I can't remember." He admits. "Maybe all the liquor isn't helping. I don't fucking know, don't give me that shit. I don't need any company. Fuck off. You're too chummy anyways. This is bullshit. I have half a mind to not even leave the cave."

"I really- I sincerely appreciate your company." Your confession sounds even more sincere than you intended for it to. You aren't trying to lay it on thick, but the altogether empty mug of beer next to you and your incredibly full stomach reminds you that it might have taken a minute to properly hit you. "I would be lying, if I said that I wouldn't want you to join us. ...at least for a little while. You don't have to do anything, but I wanted to make the offer. It- it would be nice. ...to have someone to properly talk to."

(1/3)
>>
>>3926541
"You don't need my ass to come along for that. Malimos keeps me posted on everything. ...and I don't know, Richard. It's been awhile. A couple hundred fucking years really does something to your social skills."

"You're fine," you try to reassure him. "...really. Maybe we could try and clean you up a little bit, before seeing Idonea's daughters? Surely they would be happy to see you-"

Yech is looking away, face in another glass as you think he might be ignoring your suggestion. It appears that he was merely thinking. With a frown, he looks back to you. "Fine. Fine! Alright. Fine. I'll get cleaned up- you go fucking put on something decent and I'll see what I can do. ...absolute fucking bullshit. Can't believe this- what the fuck am I even going to wear...?"

You can't help but smile at him as you get up with your new supplies. A quick pat on Ray's head on the way to a more discreet corner of the cave and some privacy only takes a moment. You hear the demon lord tossing a fair amount of fabric around on the opposite side of his lair.

Though it's dark in the cavern, you do manage to get a proper look at the new clothes and yourself while you change. Yech gave you a far nicer pair of trousers and a dressier shirt. It reminds you more of something to be worn to a party than what's appropriate for a man of the cloth, and you hesitate. Your robes are not just scuffed and terribly filthy, but you suspect they won't even fit you anymore. A quick attempt confirms it. More than that, a number of your scars glare back at you, distracting you further. So many have faded over the years, but you run a hand along your back, feeling the knotted and raised tissue from the daggers that dug into them just a few days ago.

Flesh and Mercy have been unbelievably kind to you, and you're altogether ashamed of not having made more attempts to look after your body sooner. You resolve to honor your promise to Ofelia, to the Gods, and to yourself to do something with Yech's gift, and you finish dressing. To your extreme irritation, the garments are still fairly tight, and you can't help but dread what Ofelia might say when she sees you.

Nevertheless, you step back out. Yech is making a show of tapping his foot, a pile of bags and an entire keg of liquor next to him. He seems to have conjured a set of wheels for it, alongside a pile of other bags and bottles. He's wearing an utterly ridiculous hat, and even more audacious clothing than what he's made for you. It's all quite nice, but it seems of a strange fashion that you're unfamiliar with. The sleeves are poofy, his vest is striped, his shoes are pointed. You almost want to laugh, but you don't dare to question his fashion sense.

"About fucking time. Do you always check yourself out when you change, or am I just that good?"

You open your mouth to protest, and he cuts you off.

(2/3)
>>
>>3926545
"I'm joking, Richard. Relax, for fuck's sake. I think I might have done a bit too much for you, honestly- but you'll work it off. The short bitch seems to appreciate it, anyways! You going to take that shit from her, or do I need to-"

"Don't." You sternly walk over, calling Ray to your side as you sling over your new bag and start putting the contents of your old backpack within it. "She means well, Yech. ...I imagine she's just surprised. She's been trying her hardest to help me from the first day we met. I think- I'm certain that Ofelia- and probably Celegwen as well- are just as surprised as I am."

"By what, you little shit? Are you implying that you didn't expect the best from me?"

"Far from it, Yech. They... they both might be feeling..."

"Inadequate? Fucking typical. Jealous bitches! They all want to be me, but they don't want me! Ahahah! Come on, you fucking lunatic, let's get going."

The demon starts to wheel the enormous quantity of supplies he's gathered forward, waving his hands about in haphazard motions that you assume is a particularly ugly spell. "Fuck, Malimos is going to kill himself when he hears about all of this."

You watch as the various decorations, ornaments and casks of liquor throughout the cave fade from sight. There's a loud creaking from outside the cave, like bending wood and trampled grass. Yech stops his gesturing once the cave appears completely empty, and takes a moment to walk to a nearby spiderweb. To your amazement, he whispers something to a small insect within the webs, and then sets out without waiting for you.

"...Ray. Here, boy. Come on. Let's go."

As you step outside of the darkness of the cave, you have to put a hand up to your eyes. Though it's obviously an illusion, a facsimile of sunlight and fresh air hits you for the first time in weeks. You adjust to the brightness quickly, and see that there is a clear path carved through the trees. Various flowers peek through the curved branches, arcing away from a flat and invitingly unobstructed path of soil straight through the center.

Ray looks up to you, his fear from earlier replaced with his usual calm and loving temperament. Yech's back is visible just ahead, already setting off towards where the women made camp. He's quick to yell a few words at you to hurry up, but he seems quieter than usual.

Has he known where we've all been in his domain this entire time?

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3926547
>A) Take a casual stroll with Ray. You might want to save your energy for whatever else you might have to face today.
>1) Try to convince Yech to treat Ofelia and Celegwen with a little more respect. Surely, there's something you can say to convince him to dial-back the harassment. (Write-in anything you think might help.)
>2) Ask Yech if he's alright, and engage in some more friendly conversation. This might be your last chance to talk together alone for some time. (Write-in anything you wish to say.)
>3) Enjoy some mutual, quiet reflection as you walk. A lot has happened, and you both could probably use a few moments of silence to think.

>B) Spent some time running around with Ray, and properly enjoy the seemingly fresh air. You could use some normal exercise, and you can't remember the last time you gave him some proper, healthy attention. Your mastiff deserves some play, after everything he's been through.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3926552
"You must know eachother well down here, after all this time. Tell me, are there any other interesting characters ive yet to meet?"
Basically ask him to gossip about the other demons
>>
>>3926552
This >>3926560 but also wonder inwardly if Malimos of all demons can actually die of laughter caused by you, and ask him about the other demons you've faced and slain so far. The ice and paint guy, the doppleganger, the multi-centaur, those mouths in the walls, and whatever. Get that info for the journal entries for the outside.
>>
>>3926569
i dont know about the demons we killed part, they were his friends after all, he also knows we killed him, if there is a tasteful way to do it sure but i dont want to make skullbro sad
>>
>>3926601
Yeah me neither. Better if we don't bring it up and sour the mood then.
>>
Got some stuff to take care of, love the discussion guys. Leaving the vote open for a bit, I'll be back.
>>
>>3926560
supportin
>>
>>3926560
>>3926569
>>3926601
>>3926604
>>3926727
Alright guys, finally back, locking the vote for that write-in. Writing now.
>>
>>3926930
https://youtu.be/QsowHW0t7CA

With a few strides, Ray in tow, you catch up quickly enough to Yech. The demon is whistling, somehow, through his bony teeth, and admiring the forest around him. You keep pace alongside him, both of your eyes straying along the forest's new canopy. The sorcerer seems to have created the illusion of spring. The brightly colored leaves and sun, the light rain and dew clinging to the leaves around you- fake as they may be- is a sight for sore eyes.

"Not bad, right?" He asks, pulling a few golden flowers out from a nearby bush and dropping them neatly on his things.

"It's remarkable," you muse, debating if you should pick something for Ofelia or Celegwen. You decide against it, smiling as Ray eats several of them with delight.

"Thanks for getting my sorry ass out for a bit, Richard. I almost forgot what it's like to not be glued to a chair."

"Surely, Malimos keeps you informed- of what happens in the ruins?"

"Bah, that old windbag wouldn't know a good time if it hit him in the face. It's impossible to tell what the fuck he's saying half of the time, anyways."

A laugh escapes you. It's hard to disagree. "He... does like to talk. You must know each other well down here, after all this time-"

"What? Me and Malimos?"

"Everyone. I was under the impression that you all are related, somehow. The demons here- you all seem to know of each other's activities in great detail."

"Shit, I mean- I guess so. The "master of webs" or whatever-the-fuck loves running his mouth. It's been a few hundred years of nothing but that sick fuck's homicide and torture and blood sucking, but it's better than nothing. Something to listen to, I guess. Better than the birds."

"...I was going to ask- are they your doing?"

"Nah. Some were still in the ruins, way back. I've been breeding the little bastards ever since. Keeps me busy. Don't fucking give me that look, Richard, I'm not that soft. I'll fucking kill you."

"...of course you would, Yech. Tell me, are there any other interesting characters I've yet to meet here?"

"You cheeky fuck, you want me to gossip-"

"No-"

"Yes you do. Those women are rubbing off on you, and not in a good way. ...but you know I can't resist running my mouth either. I'm going to kill Mal instead. Remind me to."

"Of course. ...you don't think he would actually die, from all of this?"

"I don't know what the fuck else could kill the monster at this point. Maybe. He sure as shit hasn't shut up about you. Getting to understand why. Anyways-"

Yech slows his pace. You both had been taking relatively broad strides, getting some proper momentum for Ray, but you assume a leisurely stroll alongside the shorter demon's steps. Based on the his eagerness to speak, you get the impression that he's been dying to gossip for a few hundred years.

(1/2)
>>
>>3927059
"...there's Rem. Remigius, I mean. Real special kind of sick fuck, that one. Makes you look as clean and innocent as fresh snow. Means well, but I wouldn't trust that slut as far as I could throw 'em. ...doesn't know what "no" means, if you catch my drift. You think I'm rude-"

"You are, Yech. ...to be fair."

"Shut the fuck up Richard- okay. Okay- you have a point. Really, though- the only one down here worse off than Rem has to be Beltoro. The fucker is absolutely insane. I don't know what their deal is-"

"Their?"

Yech looks to you and makes an odd gesture with his hands, as if he was imitating many of them. "It's not exactly a guy or a gal. Hands, Richard. Like 15 hands. 20 maybe? There's more every time I seem them. I don't know what the fuck their deal is. Creeps me out. Easily crazier than both of us combined. Be careful around it, okay?"

With a nod, you can't help but itch to put all of this down somewhere. "I don't mean to be rude, Yech, but would it be alright if I recorded some of this?"

"You fucking what now?"

You take out your journal, looking to the demon expectantly. "It's- it's sort of a- my hobby. The church asked me to record my findings down here, but I've mostly been doing it for myself-"

Yech groans, rolling his head back and making a proper fuss. "Do you ever talk about anything else? Shit, Richard, I thought I was single-minded but you're something special-"

You've already got a pen in hand, flipping to an empty page. The demon groans again. "Alright. Fine. Fine. Fine! ...let me see that, though. I don't want to tell you shit 'til I know what I'm working with here. I've got to have some artistic integrity, Richard. And if your hands shake as much as they do when you write as when you don't, this probably looks like shit."

You pull back instinctively. There's some personal things in there. Things about the Gods, and your church, and a very nice recipe from Ofelia. Not to mention the pages on all of the demons you've encountered. It's nothing that Yech probably hasn't figured out, but you're immediately protective of the gold trim and leather.

>A) Permit Yech to look through your journal, and see if he'll let you make some addendums to the entries inside. Maybe he'd be more willing to give you some information if you're more open with him, and willing to fix some misinformation. Your observations could use a second pair of eyes, right?

>B) This demon abhors the Gods, the church, and you killing a fair number of his allies. Seeing a lengthy record of all three is probably not the best idea when you want him in a good mood. Respectfully insist that he not see it, and drop the matter.
>1) Change the subject, before you reach Ofelia and Celegwen. Ask Yech for a little more information about himself.
>2) Explain to him that you're not quite comfortable with showing him your journal, but that you're still interested in hearing what he has to say. No written record needed.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3927060
>C) Write-in.
>"Are you absolutely sure you want to look at it, Yech? It has things you hate in it, like things about my Gods... and the church. And all the demons I killed - out of necessity and duress, remember - on the way down here, that may or may not have been your allies. I really do want your input and help, though."
Leave it to him to decide for himself after that disclaimer.
>>
>>3927060
>A) Permit Yech to look through your journal, and see if he'll let you make some addendums to the entries inside. Maybe he'd be more willing to give you some information if you're more open with him, and willing to fix some misinformation. Your observations could use a second pair of eyes, right?
Bromon best 'mon
>>
>>3927104
Supporting
>>
>>3927104
>>3927203
>>3927216
Just knocking out some homework real quick, leaving the vote open and I'll be back soon.
>>
>>3927318
Finished!

Have some alternate thread theme music guys, locking the vote and writing now.

https://youtu.be/wz56aruweJY
>>
>>3927492
Holding the journal to your chest, you try to at least warn the demon before handing it over. "Are you absolutely sure you want to look at it, Yech?"

The timidness is coming back to your voice. Mercy, you hate being so insecure, but this is personal. The excuses start to spill from your lips. "You- you'd probably hate it. There's things in here about the church- the Gods- the demons I've killed."

Yech frowns, and entirely stops walking. You stop beside him, but your words continue, trying to explain.

"...killed- out of necessity and duress, remember- on the way down here. I've been fighting for my life, Yech. For my friend's lives. ...even if these demons may or may not have been your allies-"

The green in your eyes catches on the artificial sunlight, imploring your friend beside you. "I really do want your input. ...I would- I really want your help."

With a fair amount of grumbling, Yech crosses his arms, huffing and sniffing the air.

He doesn't have a nose, but he still sniffs at me? To think, that I'm worried about being too dramatic...

"Fine. I'm too fucking curious after all of your fucking fussing not to look. I won't go crying about it, alright?"

"...alright. ...it's a little out of date. I've- I've been busy. Here."

You eye the skeleton's hands- which you now notice are dry, gloved and very tasteful- as he snatches the journal away from you.

"Be careful-" you can't help but caution, as he rapidly flips through the pages. His frown is intense, flipping back to the first page with more deliberation once he hears you.

"I'm not going to fucking rip it, Richard. Calm the fuck down- what the fuck-?"

The demon leans in. He's looking at your observations in prayer.

"What the fuck is this-"

There's so much disgust written across Yech's face that you can't stand to even look at him. The nearest tree is much nicer. The branches and golden flowers smell lovely, the sun is shining-

"Richard."

Yech is pointing, firmly, at the entries for Spirit.

"This shit isn't true."

"I- I know, Yech. ...I didn't want to waste any paper, making a new entry somewhere- it's- it's important for me to have something to look back at, too-"

"Shut the fuck up, Richard."

Yech grabs you into a hug.

You are absolutely speechless.

He keeps you there, still looking over the page. You know he can't read it aloud, so his comments are a little disjointed. You appreciate it more than you can say.

"You're better than a demon, alright? You're way better than any of us sorry sacks of shit. Those assholes are lucky as shit to have you. You're better than them, too."

"...alright, Yech."

"You really don't look that bad, okay? You think your little whore over there would be shooting you those looks if you were that ugly?"

"..."

"Fine, don't fucking answer. Ungrateful prick. You'll get used to it! ...twenty eight fucking times. Unbelievable. You've been fucking counting here, you asshole. How old is this?"

"...twelve years, give or take."

(1/3)
>>
>>3927633
"This your blood?"

"...yes."

"Fucking brutal. You're brutal, Richard. Fucking- writing this shit with blood still on your fucking hands- I didn't see any tear stains. This is spit, you spit on that shit. Don't fucking take this shit-"

The demon pulls away, looking at the page more intensely still.

"You didn't have the fucked up sex- pain- I mean, any of this stuff before, did you?"

He's pointing at the entry to Mercy.

You can't look at him again. You really don't want to talk about it, but you know he actually can't speak about Her at length. You nod, looking as apologetic as possible.

"I- I really didn't mean to offend you, or Idonea, or her daughters. Or anyone. I- I don't know what's wrong with me, Yech. I'm trying to manage things as best as I'm able. ...I don't exactly know why Mercy is affecting me the way She has, but-"

"You're scared as shit, aren't you?"

He's hugging you again. Where is this coming from? You don't want to reply. You hug him back, nodding again.

"Richard- fucking- shit- this is terrible. This is much worse than anything you could fucking show me about killing my fucked up neighbors. I knew you probably had it bad but- the fuck is this-"

He's pointing to the entry next to Storm.

"I don't- I have no idea, Yech. I had never channeled Him before. I've never so much as spoken to the Father of His church. I don't know. It was- I thought I had died. It felt a lot worse than dying. ...I don't... I don't know."

The demon puts a head to his hands, still looking intently at the page. The entry behind your outdated inventory log- the blue ink- catches his eye.

"...what the fuck-"

Yech falls to his knees. You rush forward, catching him, and grabbing onto the journal. He's shockingly light, and you prop him back up on his feet in seconds, taking the journal back from him.

He looks dazed, but not hurt.

"Yech, are you- are you alright?"

"Give me a fucking second-"

"Alright- alright."

It takes a few minutes, keeping a hand on his shoulder to steady him, but he looks back to you, intently.

"I couldn't read it, Richard. ...what the fuck is on that page?"

You glance down at your old dream journal entry. It feels like a lifetime ago that you wrote it- frenetically, watched over by an orc warchief- a gaping hole in your side, surrounded by the blood of demons and rushing water. It's been there for weeks, and you had completely forgotten about it.

The text glares back at you. You go pale.

(2/3)
>>
>>3927643
Dream has blessed me. I saw before me a field of grain, and a beautiful woman, standing under a red moon. I tried to call out to her. Black bile and blood stifled my words, pouring from my lips. Hands began to crawl, over my body, up my throat, and inside of my mouth. A barrel of liquor tumbled, down an endless staircase, colliding with a mountain of dead bodies. An owl flew overhead. Curtains drew shut before its wings, clipping them mid-flight. A small spirit was born, and died. The woman turned away from me- I was falling- falling, into a deep sea. I couldn't speak, I couldn't breathe. The whole world was shaking. The moon turned black.

You're sweating. You look back to Yech.

He's kneeling over, hands on his knees, looking like he's going to vomit. Instead, he grabs a bottle of wine off of his luggage, taking a huge swig of it before standing back upright. Demons can't even speak of the Gods, and he's looked right at a vision from one. All things considered, he seems to be faring well. Either he is intensely more powerful than even Celegwen suspects, or the second-hand account was a lot easier for him to endure.

With a crack of his neck, emptying the bottle, he looks back over to you.

"Richard. I mean it. What the fuck was that?"

"You couldn't read it at all, could you?"

"No. Fuck. I just saw blue. Just blue. It was scary as fuck- I need another drink. Fuck."

>A) Inform Yech that it was a vision from Dream.
>1) Read it aloud to him, if he wishes. It might be uncomfortable, but it shouldn't kill him, if it's coming from you. Maybe he can help interpret it.
>2) Insist that you don't tell him the contents, and move onto the rest of your journal. This is something you'd rather take to the Church of Dream, if you ever leave the ruins. At this point, you wouldn't mind taking it to your grave.

>B) Tell Yech that you sincerely don't want to talk about it, and try to move on. You don't want to hurt him. Let him drink. You need a drink. This is terrible. Ofelia and Celegwen can wait.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3927646
>A) Inform Yech that it was a vision from Dream.
>1) Read it aloud to him, if he wishes. It might be uncomfortable, but it shouldn't kill him, if it's coming from you. Maybe he can help interpret it.
>"I don't know how it would affect you, but you should be alright. It's second-hand from me, and you're a demon and not a human, so that might have dampened the... the backlash."
>"I think that is me calling Vengeance on Idonea. That's the one you described, Remigius, attacking me. That's... that's *your* barrel tumbling down. I don't know what the owl and spirit parts are about, but the end there..." Start realizing the implications. "It might be that twenty-ninth..."
>"...Looking at it now, I think this might have been a fate I avoided. Or a fate I've yet to witness." No. No. It doesn't have to be. "Then again, from experience, not everything Dream foretells ends up coming true... That's simply how He does things. There's still hope..." Isn't there?
>"...I think I need a drink myself, Yech."
>>
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>>3927633
>>3927643
>not one but TWO bro hugs
This nigga CEMENTING his status as best boy right now.
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>>3927878
Love the write-in man. Fucking love it. Best boi represent. Drawing him with the rest of the party as we speak, should have it done sometime during this thread.
>>
>>3927855
i second this
He seemed pretty cool with everything so far and he knew the risks, if its too much for him we can just stop
>>
>>3927855
Thirding, yech bro tier , he's on the level so far
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>>3927855
Supportin, like a bro
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>>3927878
I was so moved by your write-in I spent the whole damn night drawing the boys. Totally stayed up too late.

>>3927855
>>3928170
>>3928171
>>3928198
Thanks for your patience guys. It's pretty late but I'm going to try and get out one more update before I sleep. If not, look for it in the morning! Hope the pic makes up for the wait. Writing now.
>>
>>3928288
"Are you sure that you're alright...?"

The demon has his head in his hands, properly sitting down to better collect himself. He just waves a hand at you as he puts back another bottle of wine, obviously distressed.

"I'm- I'm glad that you're okay, at least. It was a vision from Dream-"

Yech practically chokes on his drink. It's obvious that he's doing so out of disgust, not out of surprise or for lack of air. You don't let it stop you.

"...I tried to warn you, Yech. So much has happened since I was visited by Him, I- I had forgotten entirely about the entry. I couldn't have known how it would have affected you, I suppose- but I can still read it to you. ...it might be uncomfortable, but you should be alright. It's second-hand, not His direct word... that is, if you really want to know what it says-"

A very weary set of bones glares back at you. He gestures for you to sit next to him. "Yeah. Get your ass over here. ...don't fucking skip anything, alright?"

You nod, reading the entry out loud. Yech almost immediately stops you.

"...black bile and blood stifled my words, pouring from my lips..."

"Bile? Blood? Didn't you-"

"...yes. I think that- that is me calling Vengeance on Idonea."

"Makes sense, but I don't know what fucking good it would do. Bitch is stronger than any of us. You know- it- didn't even work on Malimos."

"...yes. ...hands began to crawl, over my body, up my throat, and inside of my mouth- could this be the one you described- Remigius- attacking me?"

"You're already fucking confused. You're thinking of Beltoro. Rem is- well, Rem changes all the time, too. But not into hands. ...unless that's what the customer is into, but try not to worry about it."

"A barrel of liquor tumbled, down an endless staircase, colliding with a mountain of dead bodies- that's... that's your barrel tumbling down."

"Wow, Richard, didn't know I was the man of your fucking dreams-"

"That's... that's not funny, Yech."

"I know. I hate myself for saying it. ...get on with the rest."

"...I don't know what the owl and spirit parts are about- and the end-"

"Rem for the curtain, probably. Real showboat, that one. ...and maybe the girls, for the latter. You'd better not fucking get them hurt, Richard-"

The cold sweat hasn't left you since you looked on the entry. There is absolutely nothing in here about Mercy, about the Relic, your mission- it's blood, and demons, and death.

"You don't think- that the twenty-ninth..."

"I don't particularly care to. You'd better not have been fucking everything up even when you were asleep down here-"

"...no. No. Looking at it more closely- I think this might have been a fate I avoided. Or a fate I've yet to witness."

What am I saying? ...it doesn't have to be.

Yech looks extraordinarily uncomfortable. You can't tell if he's in pain or is simply disgusted beyond words.

(1/2)
>>
>>3928306
"...I don't know how well you were acquainted with Dream in life, Yech, but- this does not have to come to pass. Not everything that He fortells necessarily comes to pass. ...there's still hope."

Isn't there?
Isn't that the entire reason I've made any effort to survive?
Isn't that what I'm fighting for?

You run a hand through your hair, wishing you had something to cut it with, and look to Yech with no small measure of weariness yourself. Your look tells him everything he needs to know- he starts immediately fishing around for a glass to share with you.

"Look, Richard- this- here, cheers-"

You're handed a full wine glass. The crimson seems a lot stronger than what you were drinking last night, but you are more than happy with the fact.

"Cheers."

It's fantastic, like everything else Yech seems to favor.

Does that include me?

"This is pretty fucking concerning. You need to tell Idonea. If the girls are in any sort of danger, she wouldn't know what to do with herself. Look- you got anything else like that in there?"

"...nothing else from Dream. There's a page of Mercy's tenets-"

Another groan.

"...but everything else pertains to demons. I can't imagine anything else causing you any harm. I could set aside the tenets if you need me to."

"...yeah. Let me take another look. I need to set some shit straight."

It only takes a moment to remove the tenets of Mercy that you saved from the library, covering your visit from Dream with the page so that nothing is legible regarding the Gods. You hand the journal back over, and to your intense alarm, Yech takes out a quill.

"What are you doing-?!"

"Calm the fuck down. You don't have anyone's names in here- except for Malimos- and there's a bunch of shit that's wrong."

>A) Permit Yech to make some corrections to your journal. You have no idea if it's a good idea to let someone so crude alter your records, but you could always rewrite them later.

>B) Respectfully decline, and ask him to simply tell you instead. You can make some additional notes yourself. You need a lot more wine than this to allow someone else to write over your hard work.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3928308
>>B) Respectfully decline, and ask him to simply tell you instead. You can make some additional notes yourself. You need a lot more wine than this to allow someone else to write over your hard work.
"I cherish your help Yech, truly, i do. But this is very personal, i mean no offense, you must understand."
>>
>>3928308
>B) Respectfully decline, and ask him to simply tell you instead. You can make some additional notes yourself. You need a lot more wine than this to allow someone else to write over your hard work.
>>
>>3928308
This >>3928316
>>
>>3928316
>>3928319
>>3928415
Back in the land of the living, thanks for your patience guys. As previously cautioned, updates are going to slow down a fair bit, but I'll always get 1-2 out for you all if I can help it (or warn you otherwise).

Writing now!
>>
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>>3929399
"Wait. Don't- please. ...I cherish your help Yech, truly, I do. But- this is very personal."

The skeleton seems offended. He's twiddling his quill around, leering at you and simultaneously managing to tease, as if he was going to jot down something.

Was his Catalyst actually the ability to get under people's skin?

You're quick to put up a hand, trying to placate him. "I mean no offense, you must understand. ...I would greatly appreciate it if you could still tell me. I can record everything, I just-"

"I get it, I get it. Calm the fuck down, I'm not gonna ruin your bullshit."

The quill goes away. More liquor comes out. He looks far more comfortable, reclining on the soil, than you've probably ever seen anyone look before. With a slow pull at the wine- this is seriously excellent- you try to relax a little bit and take your own pens out.

"I'm listening, Yech. ...thank you for the wine, as well-"

"Yeah, yeah, shut the fuck up. So here-"

He points to the very first entry, regarding Malimos' children. The bell spiders.

"They're not everywhere. Even Malimos isn't that good. This place is fucking deep, and he's too much of a psychopath to let anyone live who won't humor him."

You silently try and appreciate how patient and kind you were with the demon each time you've encountered him.

"They're not in Beltoro's lair, or Idonea's, okay? And this-"

He gestures broadly at the centipede demon.

"Her tits are way nicer than this, Richard."

"I-"

"No excuses."

You're blushing. It was difficult enough to try and have some artistic integrity enough just to put as much as you did. Yech continues. "Her name is Offala, and the insect bit is pretty fucking smart. You didn't kill her, right?"

"...I'm not entirely sure. She was gravely wounded."

"Yeah, well this "Orgoth" probably saw to her. Threatened, maybe. Be careful getting out of here, the bitch is crazy."

You scratch in a few notes, as Yech flips the pages.

"Fucking Mondost."

"...Mondost?"

"Very fucking capable sorcerer. He wasn't guarded by shit, he just liked to flex. Made those cinders you were so eager to burn half of us to death with. More of a pyromaniac than you probably are."

It's very difficult to not slip back into the memory of your fight with the greater demon. He was unbelievably capable, and it took everything you had to come to a stalemate with him.

"Shame, really. ...this "shrouded" demon was Tsilorm. His kids were fucked, but not as fucked as him- Richard, don't go fucking fading on me now. Here, have some more wine-"

You accept the addition to your glass without protest. The name absolutely turns your stomach, each time you've heard it.

"We'll come back to it. Try to relax."

You nod, sipping at the wine, looking over Yech's shoulder easily. He's scrutinizing the lesser demon of mouths.

"Her lips are way nicer, too, Richard. You're terrible at this."

"It was very dark, Yech. ...and I was in a hurry to write this all down."

(1/2)
>>
>>3929517
"Nefret, Richard. Her name's Nefret. She's fucking sensitive- you bullied the shit out of her, didn't you-"

"It was in self-defense, and I didn't touch her."

"She was hiding in those walls, Richard. Hates being looked at more than you. Fucking bullshit."

There's a pause, as Yech flips the pages again. Your entry on the shrouded demon, and the demon of ice and paint glares back at you both.

You take a larger drink of your wine. Yech puts a gloved hand to your shoulder. "The bastards deserved it."

You swallow, hard, as you both deliberate over the entries in silence for a few moments.

These demons took so much from you and your friends. You don't know what to say, or how to feel. You'd never had a Catalyst induced before- you'd never known of demons who could feed on memories. You barely escaped with your life.

Yech looks over to you with some sympathy- as much as a skeleton can probably muster. "Look, let's not dwell on it. They're dead. You don't gotta worry about shit. This one- that was Menniath. Heard what he did to your elf bitch. You probably could have done worse to both of 'em. Let's see what else you got in here. ...you remember me telling you this was Nehliht?"

You nod with some relief to move on, but growing dread. The memory is hazy, but you distinctly remember how upset Yech was to hear of you cutting her to pieces and making her eat herself alive. Yech shrugs. "You're a fucking bastard for what you did to her, Richard, but I'm not gonna harp on about it. I'm not a fucking woman- and look, these four- Dalth, Ianthe, Verinox, and Melar- there's more where they came from."

You nod. He's gesturing to the cactus-like demons, recalling both of your friends commenting on how many more patrols were still around Ostedholm's library.

The demon lord gets to the last entries. He makes a confused face, gesturing to the doppelganger.

"Aside from how stupid this sketch of you is- I keep telling you, you really don't look that bad- who is this asshole?"

"I have no idea, Yech. ...he seemed to have been waiting for us, in the library-"

"Are you sure you killed him?"

"...Ofelia, Celegwen and Ray tore him to pieces. I'm fairly certain."

"...I wouldn't be so fucking sure. Anyways, you know by now this is Aurelius, right?"

"Yes."

"Idonea wanted to help keep you on your feet before you got here, but I get why you didn't trust her. ...oh. The imps."

He points to the entry just above it.

"Fucking shocked you made it out of there, even as bad off as you got- there's about 30 inside, and around 100 in and around the rest of the building. Plus the other humans. Pretty fucking impressive. Here,"

(Slightly over limit, 2/3)
>>
>>3929519
The demon refills your wine again. Is that bottle endless?

The journal gets closed and handed back to you firmly. You realize you haven't written down anything, merely having sat next to Yech the entire time and putting back wine while trying to not have a panic attack. Ray came over by your side at some point- you scratch behind his ears absently, glad to have him next to you.

You feel fairly warm, and entirely more relaxed than you should, given how much you've gone over. Yech looks to you with a toothy smile. "Write that shit later. You got places to be."

>A) Take another minute to sit with the demon and relax. You are extremely pressed for time, but you're reeling from reliving weeks of nonstop fighting, trauma and murder.

>B) At least sketch in the notes Yech gave to you. You don't want to forget anything. Set out after you're done.

>C) Head back off to see Ofelia and Celegwen immediately. You don't want to waste any time.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3929522
>>C) Head back off to see Ofelia and Celegwen immediately. You don't want to waste any time.
>>
>>3929522
>>B) At least sketch in the notes Yech gave to you. You don't want to forget anything. Set out after you're done.
>>
>>3929522
>B) At least sketch in the notes Yech gave to you. You don't want to forget anything. Set out after you're done.
Important notes, plus we're getting alcohol in Richard. Get this done now, not later.
>>
>>3929570
>>3929622
>>3929694
Locking the vote here, going to go with the majority to sketch in the notes and then head off back to Ofelia and Celegwen. I can't believe you guys want to make Richard drink right before going back to the girls, but he probably needs it.

Writing now!
>>
>>3929781
No one is trying to kill you. There's nothing here that's going to force the Catalyst. Your friends aren't in danger. You aren't dying. There's no need to panic.

Deep breaths.

The wine smells fantastic. The flowers around you, golden as they are, are nearly as sweet, though nowhere near as soothing. Ray's right next to you.

You can make time. This is important enough to justify it.

"Just... just another minute, Yech."

The demon lord tops off your glass. You get the feeling that he genuinely does prefer everyone liquored up, but you aren't complaining. The warm buzz, your lowered anxiety- it's a lot harder to worry when you're full and in good company. Still, Yech looks to your reddened face with some concern. "These fuckers really got to you, didn't they?"

"...I just need a minute to write this all down. I'd like to get everything recorded now, rather than later. Best to not forget anything."

"Works for me."

You're remembering your old penmanship. Taking a few extra minutes to write out the names and information Yech has given to you borders on meditation. The steady scratch of the pen, the flow of ink, watching the parchment transform into a new memory- it's all fairly soothing, despite the contents of your script. You try not to think too much about the implications of several of the demons still wandering the ruins, probably wanting for your blood, as you finish.

While the ink dries, you pull at the rest of your wine, shifting with mild discomfort. You pull a bit on your belt, your collar. Your face, your body, the very air is warm. Everything is a little softer, a little easier to not worry about. It's absurd to think that two days ago, you were starving to death and on the brink of collapse. Right now, you're having to hand back an empty glass, looking to a new friend with sincere appreciation.

"We should get going. Ofelia and Celegwen have been waiting."

"You'd have better done me justice in your little diary, Richard. I don't want no fucking cut corners."

"I'll make a proper portrait of you, if I ever get the time, Yech, but a sketch had to suffice."

"Fine! See if I fucking care." The skeleton leisurely gets to his feet as you get up. Your head feels light, but you're not so intoxicated as to have a hard time standing. The two of you resume your walk, this time at a much brisker pace. Ray is delighted to follow alongside you, skipping around you both with apparent delight at the illusion of fresh air and sun.

You all enjoy the silence together as you reach Ofelia's and Celegwen's camp. It looks as if the sorceress dissipated all of the ribbons and animal paintings along the equipment. Her and Ofelia are both gathered around a small campfire, but they rise instantly upon seeing you both.

You offer a frown, happy to see them, but they both still look exhausted. No longer covered in paint and confetti, they at least seem to have cleaned themselves up- but the strain is evident on their faces.

(1/2)
>>
>>3929841
Why can't either of them try and relax...? I explained everything to them both- there's no danger here-

Celegwen immediately sets to packing up their camp, evidently able to guess what had transpired without you saying a word. Ofelia walks over to you, arms crossed. It's impossible to not notice her looking you both up and down as she approaches. Luckily, she merely shoots daggers at Yech while she speaks to you, seeming to make some attempt at respecting your earlier requests. "Good to see ya', Richard. Everythin' work out alright, then?"

"Better than I could have hoped for, Ofelia."

"You seem a little- well- never mind. Nice work. ...where'd your robes go?"

"...they looked terrible. This will do, for now."

"It's not bad. Not what I'd expect, but not bad. ...nice hat, by the way, asshole-"

Yech tips it to Ofelia with so much sarcasm you almost laugh. He drawls, "thanks, bitch! I know."

You try and make up for the insult. "...Yech has been generous enough to give us some more supplies, an abundance of valuable information, and- he will be accompanying us back to the abyss."

The homicidal glares Ofelia has been shooting to the demon lord intensifies, if only slightly. "Uh-huh. And I suppose those little demons are gonna be delighted to hear from a drunken old bastard-"

Yech puts his hat back on, sneering with disgust at the halfling. "Shut your fucking mouth, you half-baked whore. I'll go wherever the fuck I please."

The two immediately start to argue again. You put a hand to your temples, looking out to Celegwen. It's only taken her a few minutes, but she's already neatly gathered all of the spread around the old campsite. It looks as if she was never there. The elf beams at you, waving slightly before walking over.

In a low voice, under the shouting match between Ofelia and Yech, she leans over to you. "Hello, Father."

"...hello, Celegwen."

"Are you certain you wish to harbor this demon lord? I understand that you trust him, but I do have to worry-"

"Do you trust me?"

"Of course."

"Then please stop questioning my decisions. ...his help has been invaluable. We need to get moving, and he's made our departure from his lair far easier than I could have hoped for. I've gathered some intelligence regarding the demons we've faced previously, as well."

Celegwen's ears perk up. "That is excellent news."

Yech and Ofelia finally stop arguing with each other long enough to bark at you and Celegwen.

"This whore is fucking insufferable-"
"Richard, you gotta do something about this guy-"
"Can we get a gag or something, so I don't have to tolerate her bitching for the rest of the afternoon-"
"I'll fuckin' kill you, you drunk, don't you dare touch me-"

Celegwen offers you a very weary and pained smile, going to gather the rest of her things without another word. She's leaving you to deal with your friends alone, of course.

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3929844
>A) Don't get into the bickering. Yech is staying in the abyss- your friends only have to tolerate each other for the rest of the day. Maybe they can work it out of their system. Try and enjoy the rest of the walk back.
>1) Catch up with Celegwen. Her level head is definitely enough to help you tolerate the feuding.
>2) Spend some time with Ray. He's happier right now than you've seen him in weeks.
>3) Keep to yourself. You're a little tipsy, and don't want to say anything else that might embarrass you or your friends. Reflect for awhile on what's happened.

>B) Get in between Yech and Ofelia. Reprimand them both for behaving so childishly, and insist that they at least try to be civil. They're following you to the abyss- they need to respect your peace of mind enough to not yell the entire way.

>C) Don't say a word, and set off with Ray. Keep up a brisk pace. Ofelia won't be able to keep up easily, and you're in a rush. Use your actions to stress the urgency of your situation, and get your friends to focus on the task at hand rather than each other. At any rate, you want to burn off some of the food and liquor.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3929846
>A) Don't get into the bickering. Yech is staying in the abyss- your friends only have to tolerate each other for the rest of the day. Maybe they can work it out of their system. Try and enjoy the rest of the walk back.
>1) Catch up with Celegwen. Her level head is definitely enough to help you tolerate the feuding.
>>
>>3930026
Second
>>
>>3929846
this >>3930026 plus
>"You two are getting along just fine. Can't you see it?"
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>>3930026
im gonna second this and also suggest we hold hand while we talk.
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>>3930240
Are we going down the elf mage route then?
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>>3930263
I would literallty die for gwen, so yes.
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>>3930263
it seems so , as much as I have a distaste for the dirty knife ears
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>>3930280
you will come around im sure of it.If you need convincing i can write a short essay about why gwen is the best choice from every standpoint, just ask.
>>
>>3930026
>>3930117
>>3930192
Great stuff guys.

>>3930240
>>3930263
>>3930276
>>3930280
>>3930282
Oh shit. We're going down this path, then.

Very well.

Vote is locked- no essay needed at the moment but if you ever want to provide one please do. I'll provide a little commentary, don't you worry. Writing now!
>>
>>3930292
Without a single acknowledgement towards Yech's or Ofelia's complaints, you walk after Celegwen. Your feuding friends immediately protest, making no effort to move themselves.

"Richard, what the fuck, do you seriously expect me to listen to this asshole fer the rest of the day-"
"I'm going to need a lot more than a few kegs to get through this bitch's accent, where did you even drag up this low-life rat-"
"Shut the fuck up, you moldy old fuck, do you think yer better than me or somethin'?!"
"I know I am! Why do you look so fucking shocked-"

You look over your shoulder. It's difficult to not smirk at how similar their attitudes are.

"Try to enjoy the walk back. ...you only have to tolerate each other for the rest of the day- and you two are getting along just fine. Can't you see that?"

Their outrage is immediate. Ofelia explodes into a series of huffs, while Yech makes a show of getting out a flask the size of a small animal- it is in the shape of a small animal- and drinking it right in front of the halfling's face. You turn your back to them, your heart unusually light. There's no need for Ray to be called after you. He's delighted to keep up as you approach the elf. She's got all of the girl's things set aside, but little shouldered herself. It occurs to you, for the first time, that Ofelia might actually prefer to carry everything.

Surely enough, the sorceress grabs her staff and immediately starts to using it as a walking stick. She sets out fairly unburdened, leading the pack. There's a holler from Yech and Ofelia to wait up as you go off together, neither of you particularly caring to listen to them.

Clean, unpainted, silver hair bobs in the gentle and artificial breeze. The elf makes her usual, long, and elegant strides ahead, and you quickly catch up to her. It's been very difficult to tell, due to the darkness of the ruins until now, but there seems to be a light, purple tint to the roots and ends of her hair. Her skin is fairer than you expected as well. She seems to be practically glowing in the sunlight. Is this normal? Is it elves, on the whole that look so immaculate- or did she take extra effort to clean herself up in my absence?

Her voice is lighter still, colored with amusement. "What an astute observation, Father."

"...they'll come around. It should be a few hours, even with such a straight path. I can't imagine Ofelia declining any drinks for longer than a few minutes."

Celegwen smirks, pointing back over your shoulder. To your amazement, the halfling has stopped shouldering the last of the camp equipment to try and do something with Yech's oversized flask. Far from abusing him, she looks relatively impressed.

The elf's smirk widens. "She is practically a demon herself. They will certainly be fine."

You're not entirely certain how to feel about the comment. "...a few days ago, I would have been terribly offended at that statement, Celegwen. ...though, now that you mention it-"

(1/5, buckle up guys)
>>
>>3930351
A light laugh falls from her lips. Have they always been such a nice shade of pink?

The lighter mist that's collected throughout the forest, clinging to the golden flowers around you both is difficult to miss on her fair skin. You don't catch a single scar, freckle or pockmark.

Her bare shoulders catch a little sunlight. You can't help but trace the skin with your gaze down to her hands. She's taller than most human women, but that suits you just fine.

A daring thought occurs to you. It's a demon far more intimidating than any you could face outside of your own thoughts.

What if I took her hand in mine?

"I had suspected that your change of heart was a curse, Father. ...the work of a spell, or some sort of power this demon was exerting over you. I believe that I may have been mistaken. You have not changed at all. You simply required the opportunity to trust them, did you not-"

"Celegwen."

The seriousness on your face is utterly resolute.

You are no coward.

You are also a gentleman, and the year is 605.

"...may I hold your hand-?"

Before the last word leaves your lips, the elf has intertwined your fingers together.

They're soft, and warm- like the sunlight, and the slight dew on her skin, and every other inch of your body- which straightens up instantly from the sudden and immediate yes, Richard, you may, this is something I've badly wanted for weeks and am entirely too patient to ask for myself that her utter lack of hesitation tells you.

Celegwen beams at you, her smile so broad that you can see most of her straight teeth, her pink lips, her long eyelashes-

"I strongly suspected we were both going to die before you asked, Father."

It's very hard to speak.

As the minutes pass- is it half an hour? An hour, before the heat in your face dulls even slightly- it becomes a lot easier to think.

To think, that when Ofelia was holding a knife to your throat from the first moment you met, that this woman exerted every last breath of her ability to heal you from the brink of death.

That despite thinking you dangerous, scarcely knowing what you were or what you could do, that she saw to it that your dog was returned to you safely, that you were sheltered, and permitted to heal.

Was she afraid of telling me about the library- because she was worried for my safety?

To think, that she has been constantly imploring her friend to treat you with tact, with respect, since the first time you all could speak together.

She's never imposed anything on me. Ofelia- and Yech- may be concerned for my health, but she's always put my desires first. My real needs. ...she didn't judge me for leaving Orgoth. She didn't stop me from leaving her before, either.

Yet- she came back for you without a moment's hesitation.

Did she risk her life to save mine and Ray's?

A horrific realization occurs to you.

Was she unable to fight against Menniath because of how spent she was from the effort?

(2/5)
>>
>>3930353
Has she stayed by my side after losing so much- Mercy-

But this doesn't sound like it's your choice at all. It's not right.
Do humans not care for each other?
What you intend and what we see can be entirely different things.
...how dangerous is what you're attempting to do?
There... there is... more to him than that...
I was thinking of you.
I hope that- one day- you can find a way to live with someone of this world, too.

It's a promise.

Mercy. Has she- this entire time-

The hand around yours tightens as you walk, as if the sorceress is afraid of you pulling away. It completely snaps you out of your train of thought when she asks, "Father, how many times did you lose your wager today?"

The flush on your face- has it been there this entire time- deepens considerably. The pride you want to express from winning the gamble is colored with embarrassment. "...it's hard to believe, but I won immediately."

"...then- how much alcohol have you consumed?"

"...Yech's wager for our bet was substantial. I'm... not entirely certain how strong it was, but it was a fair amount of beer. There were a few glasses of wine, while we spoke regarding the demons we've encountered... it was fairly difficult to keep track. Yech is- generous- it- it's not that obvious, is it-"

The fingers around yours tightens further. You're silently grateful that the promise ring is on your opposite hand. Celegwen's laugh isn't condescending, as she pulls on your hand ever so slightly. She almost sounds relieved. "You deserve the reprieve. Please do be mindful of yourself, though. I am- well-"

The elf glances over to you, and you notice a faint blush on her cheeks as well. She doesn't seem to want to say what's on her mind, for once.

You glance away on instinct, but can guess what's on her mind easily enough. "I'll be careful, Celegwen. One or two nights of sin will not undo the lifetime of work I've dedicated to the Gods. ...this is good for me. Please don't worry yourself."

The elf's blush deepens further. She actually glances away. "It is not that, Father."

Am I actually far more obsessive than I give myself credit for?

"I am merely worried for your figure."

...Mercy, not this again.

"Please permit me to examine the supplies that Yech has given you, when we get the opportunity."

You can't help but frown. The urge to take your hand back touches on your thoughts for the briefest of moments, but Celegwen continues.

"...he is talented. I will give him that. I may have to ask the sorcerer for some guidance, if we have the time-"

Is this a plot to offset Agriculture's blessing?

The elf looks back to you, smiling. Her expression disarms your growing neuroticism. Her words are reassuring enough to dissipate it entirely. "-but I am far more concerned with spending this time... together, with you."

(3/5)
>>
>>3930356
Her fingers haven't budged. Your hands have hardly swayed, as evenly as you both are walking together under the forest canopy. The sounds of Yech and Ofelia yelling and laughing at each other are extremely reassuring. You suspect they haven't heard your exchange at all.

Celegwen looks to you again with a fair measure of concern. You feel her fingers loosen for the first time since taking your hand. She still keeps your hand in hers, but it's tenuous.

"Father, what are your vows, exactly?"

The mild buzz in your head, the heat in your face, the pleasant relief from the edge of your anxiety- it all is replaced with a crushing, immediate dread.

You remember yourself.

"...as the Father of Mercy- as any Father or Mother of the church is- I am sworn to reserve my body for the Goddess."

"This is a very gray area."

"...it is a very old practice, but- no. ...strictly speaking, I am to express nothing r-romantic or-"

"I would greatly prefer if I did not have to concern myself with so much as holding your hand, Father. Humans truly are insane."

She smiles at you. It was a poor joke, but she's clearly trying to make the best of the situation. You don't hold it against her.

"It's- it's not typically- most- I mean-"

Another deep breath. I can deliver a sermon for hours, and I can't manage a single word about this?

"Most Mothers and Fathers of the church come into their title late in life. ...once they've had a family of their own. It is- normally- not very prohibitive."

"You are not a typical clergyman."

"...fortunately."

"This is quite the conundrum, Father. Am I to understand that I am jeopardizing your position and your Goddesses favor merely by showing you affection?"

Mercy, I need to be clear with her. She can't get the wrong idea.

I've taken a vow of chastity. Not celibacy, not that nonsense that had been written regarding King Frederick, not some half measure or vague tenet from an age long past. I am a priest- the Father of Mercy- and my body is sworn to Her alone.

(Overestimated, the prompt was just fairly long! Options in next post.)
>>
>>3930359
>A) You truly appreciate Celegwen's company, her friendship, and her affection- but you are drunk, and are legitimately risking destroying everything you've worked for your entire life by holding hands with a woman. This can't go any further.
>1) Maybe- just maybe- you can try to see where this takes you both, regardless. Maybe- if there comes a day when you aren't fighting for your life, and don't need to call upon the Goddess for aid at any given moment- you can reciprocate Celegwen's affection. ...but not right now.
>2) This is not only as far as this can go, but you are going to need some extended time alone, once you're back to the abyss, to pray. You have already risked enough in your time with Yech. Flirting with breaking your promise to the Goddess while you're on a quest from Her very form is such sacrilege that you need to implore Her for forgiveness.

>B) You are drunk. You are drunk, and feel genuinely safe for possibly the first time in your entire life. You have friends at your back, a woman is holding your hand, and you frankly feel fantastic. Fantastic, uninhibited, and more reckless than usual. You will deal with the consequences of your actions when they arise. Right now, you are not going to dwell on the consequences.
>1) You're thinking about telling Celegwen how you feel about her, too.
>2) You're thinking about pecking her on the cheek. Let Ofelia and Yech see, if they really must. You're going to make yourself clear to everyone. You are not afraid.
>>
>>3930361
>>A) You truly appreciate Celegwen's company, her friendship, and her affection- but you are drunk, and are legitimately risking destroying everything you've worked for your entire life by holding hands with a woman. This can't go any further.
>>1) Maybe- just maybe- you can try to see where this takes you both, regardless. Maybe- if there comes a day when you aren't fighting for your life, and don't need to call upon the Goddess for aid at any given moment- you can reciprocate Celegwen's affection. ...but not right now.
This is the hardest vote yet :(
>>
>>3930361
This >>3930371
We get you your Relic, please stop taking relationship notes from Spirit.
I am seriously starting to believe more and more that Flesh is the only based God. We haven't seen too much of Dream or Storm yet to call it for either though, and Vengeance is going to be True Demon God path for Richard if what shrouded demon whatshisname hinted at is true. Agriculture is 100% a prudish leeching bitch, Spirit is a spying mindbreak thot, and Mercy is a slut who craves Richard's prayers a bit too much for his own health. Time is YOU WILL DIE tier.

Elf mage really is the only one for Richard at this point. Ofelia is either gonna end up with Yech or be third wheel to Gwen. Doesn't help that QM is pushing her really hard too.
>>
Leaving this one open for awhile, got a lot to take care of today.

>>3930406
All valid complaints. You guys have been pushing yourself well past human limits for most of the quest. It's to be expected for you to be wanting for something healthier. Something to consider: Richard has never once voluntarily discussed how the Gods affect other members of the clergy.

Courting Ofelia has always been an option, but she's a different character than Celegwen. They both have their strengths, and neither has pushed Richard into doing anything. You simply have shown Celegwen far more interest. I thought it would be prudent to highlight why.
>>
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>>3930406
An essay on the advantages of an elf companion.

It is easy in the heat of the waifu wars to get lost in ones emotions or romantic feelings, to avoid falling victim to this behavior myself this essay will only contain objective traits and characteristics of Gwen and how they complement those of Richard.
Firstly, the two characters share an affinity for magic or magic-like powers, these being the natural cause of life long devotion to the craft, respectively Richard with his worship and Celegwen with her study. A commonality such as this lends itself useful not only in the bonding of the two but also to allow the pursuit of a shared goal, the pursuit of knowledge.

The venerable age of Celegwen contrasts perfectly with the youth and relative naivety of Richard, the elf no doubt holding many answers to her friend’s burning questions, specifically those that pertain to history.

Secondly, when it comes to combat or expedition their abilities yet again complement each other, while both are very capable by themselves in most areas they noticeably fall into certain roles. Richard is an absolutely terrifying combatant able to dominate most opponents, the way he achieves such a feat is through the invocation of the gods, a process that takes a severe toll on his mind and body. In a similar vein so does Gwen’s magic, putting aside the obvious sympathy the two can and do feel for each other this allows for the two to share the burden of combat and healing. Their first interaction is a perfect example of this, Richard after defeating a demon was slowly succumbing to his wounds, when Gwen healed him (and Ray). This brings into the spotlight her use as a support character, mending body and spirit. Additionally, her conjuration solves the major issue of rations, allowing the pair to penetrate deep into even the most barren and dangerous territories without the burden of finding and carrying sustenance.
The careful reader may find themselves asking “what if something happens to Richard? Is Gwen capable of defending herself? Although useful she seems like a liability.”
This astute observation is admittedly false. Celegwen has shown martial prowess when holding out against the wave of imps while Richard was sleeping, proving that she can not only take care of herself but also her incapacitated allies.

A last but most important point is her demeanor, calm and methodical, even soothing at times. As trivial as this may seem it is one of the most useful aspects of everyone’s favorite elf, enabling her to ground Richard when everything seems too much for him to handle.
In conclusion, Celegwen is the only person that can not only keep up with Richard, but also support him in times of great need. Their shared background with nature is only one of the many arguments that speaks volumes to their compatibility.
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>>3930361
A2
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>>3930361
>>A) You truly appreciate Celegwen's company, her friendship, and her affection- but you are drunk, and are legitimately risking destroying everything you've worked for your entire life by holding hands with a woman. This can't go any further.
>>1) Maybe- just maybe- you can try to see where this takes you both, regardless. Maybe- if there comes a day when you aren't fighting for your life, and don't need to call upon the Goddess for aid at any given moment- you can reciprocate Celegwen's affection. ...but not right now.
>>
>>3930361
>A) You truly appreciate Celegwen's company, her friendship, and her affection- but you are drunk, and are legitimately risking destroying everything you've worked for your entire life by holding hands with a woman. This can't go any further.
>1) Maybe- just maybe- you can try to see where this takes you both, regardless. Maybe- if there comes a day when you aren't fighting for your life, and don't need to call upon the Goddess for aid at any given moment- you can reciprocate Celegwen's affection. ...but not right now.
Then opt for a little bit of space to pray for forgiveness. I understand if this might be a stretch of what we can vote on at once, but both things are pretty important.
>>
>>3930361
>A) You truly appreciate Celegwen's company, her friendship, and her affection- but you are drunk, and are legitimately risking destroying everything you've worked for your entire life by holding hands with a woman. This can't go any further.
>1) Maybe- just maybe- you can try to see where this takes you both, regardless. Maybe- if there comes a day when you aren't fighting for your life, and don't need to call upon the Goddess for aid at any given moment- you can reciprocate Celegwen's affection. ...but not right now.
then this >>3930582
>>
>>3930371
>>3930406
>>3930549
>>3930564
>>3930582
>>3930816
You guys aren't pushing it, these aren't mutually exclusive. Gonna wrap em all together and see what we got.

>>3930465
I'm saving this in a pastebin and treasuring it forever. You're a treasure, anon.

Vote is locked. With any luck (and votes), I'll get all of my homework done after this and can get one more update out tonight. Otherwise this will be the last one 'til tomorrow morning. Writing now!
>>
>>3930942
This is easily one of the hardest decisions of your life.

You look down to Celegwen's hand. Its slender, gentle and entirely beautiful digits are nestled loosely against yours. A few golden flower petals drift past.

A part of you strongly suspects Yech is kicking up the flower petals for romantic effect. You make a note to thank him, later.

It's obvious that she doesn't want you to let go. Despite the callouses and scars, despite how worn and tired your skin looks against Celegwen's, you can't help but appreciate the sight of your skin together.

This is actually good for me.
Celegwen... has always been there for me.
She's always been able to keep me grounded, no matter how dire things have seemed.
...unlike almost everything else in my life.
I love Mercy- I want nothing more than to serve Her will, to see Her mission through to the very end- but-

You tighten your hand around Celegwen's. She looks to you with a fair measure of concern, likely due to how long it's taking you to reply.

The Goddess has been in my mind- my body- my soul- for so much longer than any other.
It's terrifying.
I don't want to lose myself again.
Mercy has granted me relief from my suffering. She has given me respite from my pain. She has granted me a purpose, a mission, a divine calling unlike any other.
She has blessed me not only with Her form- She has yet to leave my side.
No matter how She works through me, my life- my soul- my body- it all belongs to Her.
I can't throw away everything that I know and love.
I can't jeopardize our safety now.
Not now.
She'll have to understand.

You're more grateful for the wine you had earlier than ever as you pull your hand away from Celegwen's. The tightness that immediately spreads through your chest is hardly from your clothes being ill-fitting. You instinctively put a hand to it, your fingers laying over your holy symbol. It's terribly cold. You try to not break stride with your friend as you continue to walk alongside each other. The look you give her is so pained that she draws back, if only slightly.

"Father, are you alright?"

"Celegwen- you know how much I appreciate your company. ...your friendship."

Your voice drops to a murmur, the hurt impossible to conceal. "...your affection."

Your fingers tighten around your holy symbol. The gold is nowhere near as reassuring as it usually is. Its weight gives no reprieve from how entirely patient and understanding Celegwen's response is.

"Of course."

She's being respectful, as always. You try to not hate yourself for your next words, but it's proving impossible. The liquor is stronger than your usual accent, your words far more informal than they should be. "...you know that I'm drunk."

(1/3)
>>
>>3931029
"It is quite evident." She crosses her hands in front of her as you both walk together. She seems to immediately understand what you're getting at, and you're grateful, but you need to clear the air. It might be your intoxication, or it might be that you want the Gods to hear. You don't know. You don't want to care so much, but it's hard not to.

"I need you to understand, Celegwen... I..."

You stop walking. This is way too difficult to manage. Your free hand- the one that isn't fastened to your holy symbol- is shaking severely. It's likely the alcohol making the tremor worse, and you're bothered enough by it to halt your movement entirely.

The gold of the forest canopy catches on the green in your eyes. You know she likes them, and can't help but look to her as you say, "This- I'm risking destroying everything. ...everything I've worked for, for my entire life, just by-"

You can't look at her. You glance away. Ray's right next to you, nudging himself against your legs, clearly wanting to resume the walk. He knows what's better for you than you do most of the time, so you oblige, picking your steps back up again and trying to keep your eyes forward. Your voice is a little softer- even more timid than usual.

"This can't go any further- but-"

She's looking at you so intently, you want to cringe away, but you force yourself to look back at her.

She's giving you that same pained smile that you've grown to hate.

"Maybe- just... just maybe- if there comes a day when-"

The gold in your hands is a good deal more reassuring than the look you're getting. You tighten your fist, resolute.

"When I'm not fighting for our survival- we can see where this takes us both. ...a day when Mercy does not need my vessel, and I-"

You might be hurting yourself, with how tightly you're clutching onto Her symbol.

"I want to reciprocate your affection, Celegwen. But it can't- I can't do so right now. I- I need some time alone. I..."

I need to pray for forgiveness.

Celegwen places a hand on your shoulder, squeezing it slightly. Her smile looks terrible, but you endure it, to try and offer one back. You can't imagine how bad it looks. Her voice is level, methodical, and entirely devoid of the pain that's written all over her.

"I understand completely. Pray if you must, Father. Perhaps it would be best to do so, once we are out of the demon lord's domain? If what you told me still holds true, he may not take kindly to our departure, were you to reach out to your Goddess."

You nod, looking away, pain lancing any possible enjoyment you could still derive from your prolonged inebriation.

It comes out almost as a whisper, but you know that the elf's keen hearing can pick up on your words without issue. "Celegwen... you are- you've always been just as important to me."

"I know, Father." Her expression finally softens. "I did not promise myself to you lightly."

Mercy.

(2/3)
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>>3931031
Celegwen pulls away, striding ahead with a few peeks over her shoulder back to you.

Your friends all seem to be respecting your need for space.

Mercy is always with me- so why do I feel so alone?

By your best estimates, it's another hour or two, at least, before Yech and Ofelia run up to you. They're both quite obviously drunk. The halfling is wearing a new, utterly ridiculous hat. It's a deep blue, matches her cloak nicely, is topped with an abundance of feathers and is lanced with a pin in the shape of a dagger. It looks spectacular on her, complimenting her blonde curls nicely, but you're in too foul of a mood to comment on it.

"Richard- yer not gonna' believe this- did you know that Eric here knows how to juggle knives?!"

"The dumb bitch-"

"Asshole-"

"She wouldn't believe me until I showed her! Hey- why the long face? Loosen up! Did the flowers not fucking help-"

>A) Tell Yech and Ofelia to give you some space as well. You're in absolutely no mood for fun and games. You have a mission, and you need to gather your thoughts. You're nearly out of the forest, and will be back to the abyss before long. You want some time to decompress and sober up before communing with the Gods. You really need it.

>B) You're not going to let this ruin what has been an otherwise phenomenal day.
>1) Don't get into anything you said with Celegwen. You respect her far too much to talk about it with your friends- but you'll enjoy their company. Try to relax. Have a few more drinks while you're at it. You could seriously stand to lighten up, and it seems to help.
>2) Acknowledge that you've skirted with breaking your vows, are entirely upset, and could use some support. Ask Ofelia and Yech what they've been up to, and spend some time with them both before leaving the demon lord's domain. Let them try to cheer you up.

>C) Write-in.
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>>3931036
>B) You're not going to let this ruin what has been an otherwise phenomenal day.
>B2) Acknowledge that you've skirted with breaking your vows, are entirely upset, and could use some support. Ask Ofelia and Yech what they've been up to, and spend some time with them both before leaving the demon lord's domain. Let them try to cheer you up.
>>
>B) You're not going to let this ruin what has been an otherwise phenomenal day.
>1) Don't get into anything you said with Celegwen. You respect her far too much to talk about it with your friends- but you'll enjoy their company. Try to relax. Have a few more drinks while you're at it. You could seriously stand to lighten up, and it seems to help.

It'll be fineeee
>>
>>3931036
>B) You're not going to let this ruin what has been an otherwise phenomenal day.
>B2) Acknowledge that you've skirted with breaking your vows, are entirely upset, and could use some support. Ask Ofelia and Yech what they've been up to, and spend some time with them both before leaving the demon lord's domain. Let them try to cheer you up.

Some pretty intense feels with this one, not gonna lie.
>>
>>3931036
>>2) Acknowledge that you've skirted with breaking your vows, are entirely upset, and could use some support. Ask Ofelia and Yech what they've been up to, and spend some time with them both before leaving the demon lord's domain. Let them try to cheer you up.
>>
>>3931095
That was hard as fuck to write. You lads with the immediate influx of votes is more relieving than a drink, fortunately!

>>3931067
>>3931069
>>3931099
Going to work these together. Vote is locked, don't actually need to finish all of this homework tonight ahaha, so writing now.
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>>3931119
The look you give to Yech immediately silences his teasing. He walks up briskly, wrapping an arm around your shoulder, and shoving a glass of beer into your hands. You try not to drop it, as he essentially forces you to take it.

I'll need to ask Agriculture and Flesh for Their forgiveness, too, at this rate.

The demon lord leans towards you, surprisingly dry for how much liquor he's plying you with. "Hey. Don't beat yourself up! I know you're fucking great at it, but, really- fucking seriously, Richard, don't just look at it-"

You take a few sips of the beer to placate him. Ofelia has to run to catch up to you both, but she manages to meet your strides. Her freckles are almost entirely obscured with a flush, and she looks up to you expectantly. Her eyes are absolutely devouring you, and you glance away instantly. She's clearly so inebriated that you can't expect her to restrain herself, and suddenly, the forest canopy is a far more interesting view. The sun is shining, the trees are in bloom. You're flanked with allies, and can't help but feel a bit better already as you continue to sip at the mug that's been thrust at you. It's the same brew as the one you had earlier in the day, and you aren't about to decline the welcome support from your friends.

Especially not when you know you need it. Your voice cracks slightly as you hazard a look down to Ofelia. She's practically leering at you.

"Heey, Richard."

"...hello, Ofelia. Is that a new hat? It looks lovely."

"Thaaanks~ yer not half bad yerself- hey- what's wrong now- oh, no. You didn't-"

You nod, looking ahead towards Celegwen, taking a proper drink from the mug. The roasted malt, cream and foam is a welcome distraction from the taste of everything you said to her.

"The flowers helped, Yech. Thank you. ...I can't, though- it's- this is all- it's unbecoming of me, of my station- I- I don't know what I'm doing. This is terrible. She probably-"

"No, don't you fucking dare! No whore's going to rain on this fucking parade. You want me to drop a tree on her sorry ass? I'll kill her, Richard, you just say the word-"

"That's not funny, Yech. ...thank you for the beer, by the way- she- I- I just- Mercy is it warm...?"

Ofelia punches you slightly on your side, obviously not caring to hold herself back. "Lighten up, Richard. She'll be fine. You think she'd get to be her age without a little heartbreak? You've got bigger shit to worry about. Plus, the old bitch can probably wait-"

Yech groans. "This is disgusting. You're both disgusting."

Your frown feels like its going to never leave. You don't want to look up. The soil, the dirt, the ground is much more fitting for your mood. It doesn't hurt to keep your eyes mostly on your feet, ensuring you don't stumble. It was considerate of Yech to make the walk out of his domain as smooth as he has.

"You both- you both don't understand. My vows-"

(1/3)
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>>3931251
"Shove it up your ass, Richard, I am sick of your fucking fixation. You need another hobby, or ten. We're talking about something else."

"He's got a point, Richard. Yer dwellin' on somethin' you can't really help, right?"

"...right. But, really- if she- if we-"

Yech pulls back from your shoulder, shoving you very gently. He seems acutely aware of how dangerous it is to knock you off balance right now, and rights you immediately. "Shut the fuck up. You're fine." His grimace is severe, as he cautions, "Don't make me try to say it."

"You know I wouldn't, Yech, but-"

Ofelia looks up to you, still, her blue eyes a little hazy. "But nothin'. You got a job to do, right?"

"...right."

"And yer gonna do it! We got yer back, Richard. You don't gotta worry 'bout nothin'. Gwen'll be fine. ...it's okay if you aren't, I mean- I know you got a lot goin' on. But we're here."

The frown abates, if only a little bit. Yech is refilling your mug with a pitcher. How is he walking with an entire pitcher of beer? Why am I even questioning him, at this point?

It's nice. Your friends are here. They really do care about you.

I don't care.

Yech's somehow managing to keep your mug filled, and a hand on your shoulder, all while harassing Ofelia.

He's very talented.

The beer is excellent, enough to warrant not protesting as your friends encourage you to loosen up, to not worry, to focus on the present, to give yourself some credit.

This is fine.

"No, you're right. Thish ishh fine."

How long have we been walking for? Is that a break in the treeline? Celegwen has gotten so far ahead of us, I can scarcely see the dip in her back, or her hips-

"That's the spirit. Come on, Richard, it's okay. You're a fighter."

"No bitch is worth that much angst! Listen, let me tell you- if I had a copper for every whore that tried ruining me-"

Yech's and Ofelia's reassurance fades into a haze of warmth and comfort as you all make it out of the forest. Ahead is the incline leading out of Yech's domain. The rain is entirely absent, the stone is dry, and you all make it to the exit in record time.

Celegwen is waiting by the door, her hand over the etching she had made days prior. It's faint, but she looks satisfied. There's no trace of that pained smile as she looks to you all, seemingly relieved for you all to have caught up- until she clearly recognizes how drunk you all are.

Ofelia hiccups, leaning against you, tipping her hat to the elf with all the grace she can muster. It isn't much. "M'lady. Forgive our delay! We've been enjoyin' Richard's stellar company."

The sorceress frowns for only a moment longer. Her eyes catch on you, and she smiles again, albeit gingerly. "If I am not mistaken, three and a half days remain to complete your task, Father. We should not linger."

(2/3)
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>>3931255
None of you make any indication of moving, beyond your slight swaying. Ray has been dutifully helping, though he would never rush ahead without your command.

"...is everyone ready, then?"

Yech pushes past her without any apology, shoving his luggage and keg through the door without any further prompting. "Thought you'd never fucking ask. Come along, bitches! ...and Richard, you watch your step, alright, this shit is a little weird-"

Right. I have somewhere to be.

You all step through the door, together.

The smell of grain wafts over you, as you emerge from Yech's domain, and back into the abyss. A red moon leers overhead, waxing slightly from when you last looked upon it. Its red glow hardly touches you all, as a golden light seems to rise from the soil, the field, and the five small figures running straight towards Yech.

"Uncle Yech!"

"Where have you been?"

"You brought me flowers?"

To your utter amazement, the demon lord is almost tackled over by the minor demons. They're acting exactly like human children, and he picks one up- was that Freya- to put her on his shoulder. His poofy sleeves are immediately crushed, but he doesn't seem to mind at all as he hands out the golden petals he picked earlier to the demons before him.

"Yeah, yeah, don't get used to it. Go tell Idonea I'll be sticking around for awhile, okay? I've got some business to take care of with our guest."

With a huff, he sets down the golden demon from his shoulders. The girls all take off into the field beyond, obediently, but talking among themselves with delight.

Ofelia and Celegwen are staring. They both look to you for an explanation. You're staring, too. Your jaw is hanging open. You absolutely don't have any precedence for this.

Yech looks back to all of you, and in a whisper, he hisses, "shut the fuck up. Don't you fucking get the wrong idea. I'll kill all of you. Fucking skin you alive if you think I'm not just out here to stretch my fucking legs. ...shut up, Ofelia. Shut the fuck up."

You almost want to collapse on the soil. This is too much- your limbs feel heavy, your head is swimming. The warm air is wonderful. You've drank too much again, and though you badly want to pray, to work, to keep moving- everything- everything is too surreal, too calm, too contrary to everything you thought you knew about demons, and Gods, and what your tolerance for alcohol probably should be.

There's a creak, from one of the doors out in the field. Celegwen is the only one sober enough to respond with any sort of urgency, moving forward in front of you all with her staff in hand. You bristle, taking hold of your holy symbol, but your vision is hazy, and you can't quite make out the small form moving through the grain towards you all. Ray immediately begins growling.

(Underestimated, 3/4)
>>
>>3931257
"...eashy, boy."

The elf rapidly moves ahead, rushing to meet the creature. You follow her, Ofelia coming up alongside you. Yech is making no indication of this being an issue or a threat, leisurely setting up what looks to be an entire bar from his supplies. You pay him no mind, moving forward, trying to discern what the danger is.

It's an impossibly small imp- no more than two feet from the tips of its horns to the bottoms of its hooves- and it's carrying a package that's altogether too large for its body. Yech calls out to you.

"Don't shoot the fucking messenger!"

Celegwen is tense. Ofelia, somehow, seems even moreso, as she shoots a look up to you. The halfling's eyes seem to be excellent, even when inebriated. She drawls, "it looks like it's fer you, Richard."

The small demon is hissing intently at Celegwen as she glares at the creature. It doesn't look like it's attacking, but the item it holds is blood-red, wrapped with a pink bow. There's a golden tag on it. It almost reminds you of a present.

>A) Greet the imp, and accept its package. Permit Ofelia to search it, and have Celegwen look it over for good measure, too. This might be a good time for the sorcereess to discreetly look over the supplies Yech gave to you as well.

>B) Trust Yech's judgement, and take the item from the imp without question. You have absolutely no idea what to believe about these creatures anymore, and you're willing to take a risk. This imp is in service to another demon- it might be a display of good will to trust it. You are here on a mission of peace, after all.

>C) Let the imp leave its package. Go lay down, sober up, and deal with this when your head is clearer. You need to pray, you need to rest, and you need to manage your time wisely. This can all wait.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>A) Greet the imp, and accept its package. Permit Ofelia to search it, and have Celegwen look it over for good measure, too. This might be a good time for the sorcereess to discreetly look over the supplies Yech gave to you as well.

Still a demon.
>>
>>3931258
>A) Greet the imp, and accept its package. Permit Ofelia to search it, and have Celegwen look it over for good measure, too. This might be a good time for the sorcereess to discreetly look over the supplies Yech gave to you as well.
Aw shit, pizza?
>>
>>3931258
>>A) Greet the imp, and accept its package. Permit Ofelia to search it, and have Celegwen look it over for good measure, too. This might be a good time for the sorcereess to discreetly look over the supplies Yech gave to you as well.
>>
>>3931307
>>3931309
>>3931324
Going to do some laundry real quick and then bust out one more update before bed! You guys are the best. Vote is locked.
>>
>>3931344
Your grimace at the imp is intense. You don't trust this creature as far as you can throw it.

"Itsh shtill a demon."

The daggers you're shooting at the creature tells it everything it needs to know. The imp sets the package down on the ground, hisses at you, turns, and runs back the way it came all before you or Ofelia can properly respond.

Yech gave me that entire pitcher of beer, didn't he?
I probably needed it.
This is fine.

Celegwen goes to give chase, but you call out to her, vaguely waving your free hand. The one that isn't holding firmly onto your holy symbol, with the lovely gold ring that drives a knife through your heart every time you look at it.

"Shelegwen, wait. Pleashe. Th-the item-"

The spasm in your back is a little too irritating to articulate anything further, as you make your way over to where the imp was standing. It's long gone, having skittered off back towards one of the doors with extreme urgency.

I was supposed to be in a rush, wasn't I?

Ofelia, leaning hard against you, gestures as well towards the item. "Suppose you don't trust this shit neither?"

"No," you leer, your vision swaying as you try to make out the label. The halfling plucks a long grain of wheat and promptly begins poking the package with it.

"They'd have to be pretty crazy to rig somethin' here, right?"

Celegwen sighs, doubling back after giving chase to the imp. She gently nudges you both out of the way, gesturing widely with her staff. "Please, stay back. Both of you. Sit down, before you hurt yourselves."

Ofelia pulls gently on your belt, and you both practically fall to the soil beneath you.

This is fine. ...it feels so much better to sit down. We didn't stop even once to rest, did we? I wonder if they're both as tired as I am. Celegwen certainly looks like it.

The elf looks to you with a measure of exhaustion, dissipating something into the air before saying anything further.

"Father. There was an enchantment on these items. It was not very potent, and it's safe to examine them now, but-"

You lean forward as she gently sets the bundle next to you. It's still unopened.

"Please, be careful."

Ofelia prods it with the handle of a dagger, looking to you intently.

"I think it's safe, Richard."

She actually takes it from your hands, removing a few tools from her bag, and starts pouring over the item without removing the wrapping.

Squinting, you manage to discern the writing on the golden label as the halfling works.

(1/3)
>>
>>3931503
https://youtu.be/Y6VMvfEvzn0?t=2556

To Father Richard Anscham
With love, Remigius

Your eyes narrow further. There's a heart over the 'i' in the demon's name, and a golden kiss smeared along the tag. It looks like the imp smudged the paint.

Yech is whistling off to the side. He seems entirely unconcerned. Ray's growling stopped almost as soon as the imp left- you only just now realize that he's right at your side.

This is... this is fine. This is probably all fine.

Ofelia gently hands the package back to you, putting away her things.

"I couldn't find shit. I think yer okay."

Your hands are shaking, badly, and your palm is sore from holding onto your holy symbol for hours, but you take back the item. With no small measure of hesitation, you peel off the paper. It seems quite ordinary.

There is a pile of extremely fine clothing glaring back at you. Neatly folded in your hands lies a strange, silky fabric. Something that you think you've heard of from the coast is resting on top- pearls? They're all black, save for a glimpse of gold buttons and some other jewelry in the same hue. You don't need to lift up any of the garments to discern that they're all exactly to your taste. There's two slips of paper nestled on top of the folded finery.

You pick up the smaller paper first, barely registering that Celegwen is doing something with her staff around your bag. As you look to the rectangular, firm note, and its red and glaring ink, your growing confusion escalates.

You are cordially invited by REMIGIUS and COMPANY.
In celebration of Idonea's courtesy and our extended hospitality.
This evening as our HONORED GUEST.
This ticket will be required upon entry. Dress code will be strictly enforced.
Up to two guests may accompany you, if you so wish.
Please arrive prior to sunset.

Another grimace. There's no sun down here. You look to the other paper, and your frown intensifies. The script is just as bloody, just as intense, but the words upon it are even more courteous than anything you've heard from another demon.

Father Anscham,
Enclosed are a few items for you and your friends. I am aware that you have been traveling for some time. Please accept this as a token of my hospitality.
I would hate to see you at anything other than your best.
Yours,
Remigius.

The heart over the 'i' and the myriad kisses all over the letter are revolting enough for you to immediately set down the piece of paper.

Ofelia is reading over your arm. She's practically hanging off of you. You're so warm, she's so light- you hadn't even noticed her. You scoot aside nervously, and bump into Celegwen.

She's looking down at you with a huge frown. You've never seen the elf look so revolted.

"Father. A moment, please."

(2/3)
>>
>>3931505
She's not quite looking to you, you realize. She's looking at your bag, and to Yech, and to the pile of clothing in the red wrapping on your lap. You set it aside, pulling a bit further away from Ofelia. The blonde looks blissfully unaware to you both as you get up.

The abyss seems to turn sideways once again.

You stagger, and barely manage to right yourself. Celegwen mercifully steps back, avoiding you grasping at her for something to hold on to.

You straighten yourself, trying to smooth out your hair, your shirt. Her voice is a whisper.

"Father. Are you alright?"

You don't quite whisper back. The slur is more akin to a murmur, a subdued admittance of your confusion. "I'm not entirely shure."

"This demon's lair- this 'Remigius,' has a sun. We are pressed for time, Father, and-"

She's looking to Yech again. Her breath is warm, and soft, and right against your ear, as she leans in, and continues to whisper. The flush in your face somehow deepens even further.

Why does she sound so upset?

"Father. I understand that you do not wish for me to question your decisions. I do not mean any disrespect. This demon, though-"

Her voice is scarcely audible. It's furious.

What is she so afraid of?

"His sorcery is incredibly potent. I could not dissipate the enchantment on your supplies. I am unfamiliar with the mechanism, but it is a form of conjuration. ...I do not believe it is permanent, but the duration of its effects seem to be quite long. I-"

You can't listen to any more of this, removing your bag, and setting it to the floor. It tilts- the soft and altogether distant floor. You can't stand any dishonesty- not from yourself, and not from your friends. Just as you're about to ask Celegwen to speak up, Yech peeks his ridiculously adorned head up from the bar. It's a proper bar, somehow erected in the middle of the field, complete with his keg and an assortment of very fine glasses. His nasally voice interjects Celegwen's whispering and your sudden movement with a yell. "Hey. Bitch! Why don't you keep your snooty little nose to yourself?! You got a problem, you say it to my fucking face, alright!"

The sorceress does something you previously thought impossible.

She loses her temper.

The elf sweeps up your bag from the floor with one hand, and points her staff with the other straight at the demon as she walks briskly across the field.

"You will not touch him again."

"I'd like to see you try and fucking stop me!"

Mercy, no, not now. I'm not equipped for this.

There's a vague pain behind your eyes. It's not from the alcohol- it's likely a headache. It's very hard to tell through the liquor, but it's there.

"Explain yourself!"

"Make me, slut! See if I fucking care."

Ofelia seems to have fallen asleep against the soil. Ray looks up to you, oblivious to the situation, but intensely aware of your immediate distress. The minor demons are nowhere in sight.

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3931506
>A) Shout to Celegwen and Yech to both calm down. Get in between them if you need to. Surely, there must be a reasonable explanation for whatever Celegwen found. Surely, you all can discuss this reasonably. You probably shouldn't be pushing yourself right now, but if you are truly pressed for time, you don't want to tolerate any more bickering.

>B) Let them fight. You're entirely indisposed, and not entirely certain if you can watch what you say. You don't want to take sides, you want to know what they both have to say, and you don't want to aggravate your headache. Make sure Ofelia is alright, and only intervene if they resort to violence.

>C) Get behind Celegwen, protect Ofelia, and demand that Yech explain himself. You're not in any position right now to defend yourself, and you aren't entirely sure what's even going on- but you know that something is amiss, and you intend to find out what. Even in your current state. This isn't right.

>D) Write-in.
>>
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Trying to keep my shit together over this update. Going to do everything I can to get up early enough for my shift tomorrow to get one more post in before work. If we don't get enough votes I'll simply wait until I'm back, but it'll be no earlier than 7PM EST. Looking forward to it either way, guys.
>>
>>3931508
>>A) Shout to Celegwen and Yech to both calm down. Get in between them if you need to. Surely, there must be a reasonable explanation for whatever Celegwen found. Surely, you all can discuss this reasonably. You probably shouldn't be pushing yourself right now, but if you are truly pressed for time, you don't want to tolerate any more bickering.
>>
>>3931533
Also, this quest is fucking awesome!!
>>
>>3931508
>A) Shout to Celegwen and Yech to both calm down. Get in between them if you need to. Surely, there must be a reasonable explanation for whatever Celegwen found. Surely, you all can discuss this reasonably. You probably shouldn't be pushing yourself right now, but if you are truly pressed for time, you don't want to tolerate any more bickering.
>"Look, we know. Yech is really strong. What's the problem here then if he isn't going to interfere with what we're going into?"
>"Please, just... calm down. I do NOT need this right now. We need to focus and start going to this Remigius right away before it's too late."
>>
>>3931595
>>3931597
Thank you so much dude.
>>3931619
Locking the vote here so I can update reeeal quick this morning! Writing now.
>>
>>3931725
You're young, possibly more than a little naive, and horrifically drunk- but you're far from stupid. It's one thing for your friends to banter with each other, but Celegwen looks as if she actually intends to harm Yech. You rush forward.

"C-calm down! Both of you!"

A pair of narrowed eye sockets and a set of silver eyes both snap to you as you stumble between the two of them. The counter of the bar is as fine a place as any to lean against. It's a natural barrier between the two figures, who both sound as if they were about to cast something at one another. You try to keep the room from spinning, holding onto the hardwood before you and closing your eyes for only a moment.

When you open them again, Yech has cut his incantation short first. He's glaring at the elf once again. "Say one more fucking word and I'll lift your skin off your pretty little skull-"

Celegwen is not stopping. You hate that it's necessary, but you reach out and put a hand to her shoulder, and another on her staff. She immediately stops the stream of words and starlight, glaring at you intensely for only a second before realizing that you're directly in the line of fire. With horror written all over her face, she pulls back so hard that you lose your balance again.

A skeletal hand grabs the back of your shirt, propping you upright. The demon lord makes an exaggerated groan, and obviously effortlessly rights you back on your feet. "Easy! Fucking hell, you cunt, you're going to get us all killed at this rate-"

"Not another word, demon. I will not tolerate your continued abuse. If you refuse to explain yourself-"

"Look," you finally manage, already exasperated, clutching again onto your holy symbol, to the counter, to your chest. "we know. Yech ish really sshtrong. I don't shee what the problem ish here, if he ishn't interfering with anything w-we're going into."

Yech pats you on your shoulder. "Appreciate it, bud."

"You are drunk, Father. You are drunk, Ofelia is unconscious, and you clearly do not recognize the danger you are in."

"Shove it up your ass! I'm trying to give you sorry sacks of shit a hand, and this is the fucking thanks I get?!"

"Your help-"

Celegwen is poking your side again. You want to bat her hand away, and snap at her to not touch you, but it's bringing your attention to something.

"-is not wanted here."

Your stomach hasn't gone done since yesterday. It's obviously not just bloat from the vast quantity of food, and wine, and beer, and everything else you've taken in. It's protruding in a way that is altogether not indicative of only two days of binging, and has you pulling back, desperately wishing you had your robes again.

"This bitch is suffocating, Richard, you don't need to tolerate-"

"He is not tolerating anything. I appear to be the only person capable of genuinely helping him-"

(1/3)
>>
>>3931761
Something very ugly in the demon lord snaps.

"My fucking CATALYST was my mother fucking GENEROSITY you stupid WHORE. He would have fucking DIED if I hadn't stepped in! Did you not fucking see him?!"

Your horror is escalating rapidly- he said repeatedly that you didn't look that bad when you met him- but you're far from surprised. You'd prefer to actually discuss this, write a few things down, reflect awhile, vomit, and maybe have a seat for several hours- but the world is tilting, and your headache is rapidly escalating.

You raise a hand up, trying to quiet them both down. "Pleashe, jussst... both of you, c-calm down." The pain behind your temples is growing by the second. "I do NOT need thish right now."

Though even the faint golden light of the field before you is beginning to sear, you look up to Celegwen. Your discomfort must be obvious, as her expression immediately turns from fury to genuine concern. You try imploring her. "We need to focush, and ssstart going to th-this Remigiussh- right away. ...before it'sh too late."

"Are you not concerned, at all, then-"

"We don't have time for thish."

You don't even dignify the laugh that comes from Yech as you cut her off. You'd rather stress to her that you still have something of a head on your shoulders. "Agriculshure hass been wearing on m-me for yearsh, Shelegwen. I will be f-fine."

She gives you a look full of doubt. You can't stand it, and glance back to the skeleton lord instead. "Thish is temporary, right, Yech?"

"For fuck's sake, yes! I tried to tell you, I needed to give Rem a hand! And you need to fucking loosen up, both of you- unbelievable- the upright whore can easily fucking see that I'm not cursing you-"

You look straight to Yech. "Why ish thish for Rem?"

"You're all too fucking uptight, Richard. You'd kill the slut on sight if I didn't take a few precautions, okay?"

He's shielding another demon from me?

The hurt in your voice is impossible to conceal. "I thought you trushted me, Yech."

"I do, you don't need to get all fucking worked up. I gotta do something for myself too, though. ...I'm still a fucking demon, Richard. I gotta give a little. You know I can't fucking talk about it. Leave me the fuck alone, go to your damn party. I'll be here."

Celegwen shoves your bag back at you, the concern and fury on her face still evident as she storms off towards Ofelia. With a swift motion, she picks up the sleeping halfling and props her up on her back.

Yech hollers after her, as she sets off towards what you can only assume to be Remigius' door. "Don't let the door hit you on the way out! ...fucking cunt."

The pile of clothing, jewelry, and ticket are still lying in the field. You glance over to them, and to Yech, and the sudden motion is enough to send your head reeling again.

When did Ray get over here...?

(2/3)
>>
>>3931763
The mastiff is looking up to you, whining, leaning against you for support. You give him a slight pat on his side, putting your other hand to your temples as the mounting pain lances your vision for a moment.

Yech slides something across his makeshift bar to you. He's got an apology written all over his face.

"Look- I- I'm terrible with women. Most people, actually- but that's besides the fucking point. You're going to be late. I might have fucked up. I really don't know how to restrain myself, Richard."

There's a very clear drink glaring at you. It's bubbling so much that the fizz is dancing over the top of the glass. A little black parasol and a piece of some citrus might have been placed on the rim to make it more appealing. It smells strongly of something medicinal- you're experienced enough with herbal remedies to recognize it from a distance. The trouble is, you're so full, you can't imagine drinking anything else.

Yech looks to you earnestly. "It'll help. Rem will literally kill me if I keep you from seeing him- just take the damn thing for the road if you have to, okay? The bitch will get over herself. You should probably get going."

>A) Celegwen is rapidly fading from sight, and you are in an extreme hurry. Despite her reservations about Yech, you still trust the demon lord. Knock back the drink he's given you, grab the package from Remigius, and catch up to the women. You might be bothered, but you seriously don't think Yech has tried to hurt you. This could be a blessing in disguise.

>B) Don't say another word. You don't want to make your headache worse, and you aren't entirely sure if you want to have anything else that Yech wants to offer you. Take the drink to appease him, grab your things, and set off- but pour it out in the soil on your way to the door. You've nearly forgotten that you're at the bottom of the ruins, and surrounded by demons.

>C) Demand that Yech explain himself before you go. You've vouched for him to your friends multiple times, and Celegwen seems to think that he's an immediate danger to your health and safety. You can take an extra minute for this- but probably only a minute. You are REALLY in a hurry.
>1) His Catalyst was generosity? You've always known that apathy is touted as a tenet of many churches, but this is a shock. Could any emotion be a Catalyst?
>2) What was the enchantment that Remigius put over the things that were given to you? You're in no state to fight this demon- you need to arm yourself with knowledge of what you're going into, if you honestly want to make peace with it.
>3) How long is Yech's conjuration going to last for? You can certainly pray to Flesh for forgiveness, and work with what you have- but it would set your mind at ease to know how long it will be before you look like yourself again.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3931764
>A) Celegwen is rapidly fading from sight, and you are in an extreme hurry. Despite her reservations about Yech, you still trust the demon lord. Knock back the drink he's given you, grab the package from Remigius, and catch up to the women. You might be bothered, but you seriously don't think Yech has tried to hurt you. This could be a blessing in disguise.
>Extra) Give Yech a quick hug before you rush after Celegwen. "We'll talk about this later, Yech. See you soon. Look after Ofelia and Ray for me."
>>
>>3931764
>>A) Celegwen is rapidly fading from sight, and you are in an extreme hurry. Despite her reservations about Yech, you still trust the demon lord. Knock back the drink he's given you, grab the package from Remigius, and catch up to the women. You might be bothered, but you seriously don't think Yech has tried to hurt you. This could be a blessing in disguise.
>>
>>3931778
Seconding
>>
>>3931764
>>A) Celegwen is rapidly fading from sight, and you are in an extreme hurry. Despite her reservations about Yech, you still trust the demon lord. Knock back the drink he's given you, grab the package from Remigius, and catch up to the women. You might be bothered, but you seriously don't think Yech has tried to hurt you. This could be a blessing in disguise.
>>
About to start my shift, next update will be tonight.

>>3931778
>Look after Ofelia and Ray for me
Celegwen grabbed Ofelia before taking off. Do you want to leave them both in the abyss, and set off only with Celegwen?
>>
>>3931808
Would Rem see Ray as a guest?
>>
>>3931983
I misread your post, thought you were asking about Yech. Rem made no mention of Ray. He's essentially a service dog, and you'd likely be fine- but if this is a high class party with a strict dress code ran by a demon concerned with appearances, you may want to consider leaving him behind.
>>
>>3932008
Then leave Ray with Yech, go with Ofelia and Gwen. Tell Ray to be good and trust Yech and all that.
>>
>>3931764
>A

I mean, we knew Yech was enchanting the food. Otherwise it wouldn't have filled us out so fast, turning right into muscle and fat. Maybe a little too much fat for Celeg, but apparently that's a secret that'll help us out later with Rem.
>>
>>3931778
>>3931789
>>3931794
>>3931800
>>3932085
>>3932400
Finally home from work! Going to wrap all these together and put out an update.

I've got the rest of the evening free, so if you guys keep the votes rolling in I can put out a few updates. Thanks for your patience, as always. Writing now.
>>
>>3932546
This isn't anything I didn't already know. Yech's been trying to help me from the first opportunity he could take.

With a grimace, you sweep off the glass before you from the table, knock it back, and try not to puke.

Only a demon would make a mixed drink out of medicine. You immediately recognize the herbs, the salts- it's an old remedy, one usually used for acute pain. The warm citrus does compliment the herbs, and you almost want to enjoy it, but your gut is stretched far past a comfortable limit. You lean over the bar, looking to the demon lord, trying to keep everything down.

To your amazement, a fair bit of the haze seems to clear. Either the drink was so bitter that it sobered you up, or he laced it with something else as well. Your slur leaves you, the pain in your temples backs down, and you almost sound like yourself again.

"...Mercy. W-we'll talk about this later, Yech."

He pats you on the shoulder again. "Yeah. Don't take any shit from Rem, alright? I know you're Idonea's bitch right now, but you really need to assert yourself. That slut will walk all over you. Don't stop at saying "no," and I fucking mean it. ...not that I want you to go messing things up- ah, fuck it! You'll be fine. Forget I said anything. Get out of here."

You can't help but get a sinking feeling that this is all a terrible idea. Ray whines, looking up to you with more distress than usual. His fur is a little mangy, the scars on his face and side evident even with a quick glance. He's been unwaveringly loyal, but the recurring guilt from bringing him into the ruins cuts you deeply.

Am I seriously dragging him into another demon's lair, when he's entirely safe here?
I would have died ten times over were it not for his companionship.
He doesn't know what's happening, or how much danger I could be going into.
I doubt I could protect him right now, if it came down to it-

"Yech- will you look after Ray for me?"

The mastiff peeks his ears up at his name, nuzzling the side of your leg as you kneel down. Yech's ridiculous hat peeks out over the edge of the bar as he leans over, drawling at you. "What's the matter, Richard? You realizing you got some other fucking friends? Feeling a little shitty for dragging a mutt with you to-"

"Good boy, Ray. Ray, you know Yech. He's been helping us, right?" You put a hand, gently, under his chin, gesturing firmly to the demon lord. "He's safe, Ray. Safe. Listen, Ray. Stay, boy. ...I'll be back. I'll be back, okay?"

He's already whining as you stand up and move to leave. He's giving you puppy dog eyes. He's staying put, obediently, and obviously worried sick. Celegwen seems to be long gone. Ofelia's stupid hat is bobbing over the top of the grain as the women obviously wait near Remigius' door.

I really don't have time for this.

You look to Yech, unintentionally giving him the same puppy dog eyes that Ray is directing at you.

(1/3)
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>>3932695
"You've got to be fucking kidding me- FINE- fine, Richard, fine, go have some fucking fun, I'll look after him. Just go. Just fucking go."

His curses and murmurings seem to die down as you turn to leave. You quickly grab the clothing, jewelry and papers lying on the floor, only glancing back over your shoulder to call back to Yech and Ray. "I'll see you soon."

Yech seems to be conjuring something akin to an actual steak for your dog. You almost want to smile, seeing them together, and you move as quickly as you're able to catch up to your other friends.

You aren't quite sure what to do with the things you were sent, and settle on placing them gently in your bag before reaching the two women.

Celegwen looks exhausted, but she did wait for you. Beside her is a painted, wooden, red door. There's expletives carved into it, extremely crude depictions of sex and violence that immediately elicit a Mercy and a quick gesture to the Goddess. Ofelia is still unconscious, snoring lightly, murmuring something about men and juggling knives. The elf seems mildly bothered by your gesture.

"Are you sure you're alright, Father? Where's Ray?"

The haze is clearing rapidly from your vision. You're still a lot more sluggish than you'd prefer, but it's a marked improvement from barely being able to stand. "I'm far better than before. Ray's staying behind- he deserves the rest. I wish you would give Yech some credit- but we can talk while we walk. ...I didn't mean to waste so much time."

It seems that the urgency of your invitation has either silenced Celegwen's complaints, or she's merely too angry from her argument to properly respond. With a nod, the sorceress readjusts Ofelia on her shoulders, and opens the bloodied wood before you.

You both step through the door, together.

(2/3)
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>>3932698
https://youtu.be/Ij4UHCk8T_k

You instantly want to step back.

There's a black sun hanging overhead, casting a dark parody of sunlight over a domain made entirely of flesh. There is no sky. There is no ground. There is only meat, veins, bone and blood.

Celegwen offers you a grimace. "Perhaps I should have stressed why it was so strange."

Across a lengthy expanse of sinew, slowly being eclipsed in the coming sunset- or is it a sunrise- is a hideously geometric building coated entirely in red. It looks to be rising from the enormous mass of muscle and tissue that comprises the domain you stand in, punctuated with utterly dark windows and leering out at you with something that makes your blood run cold. There are no demons in sight, but you hear them, off in the distance. There's moans, and a dull throbbing of something reminiscent of music The beat practically pulses through the veins beneath your feet, the screams off in the distance rising and falling to the sound. Everything smells like copper.

You clasp your holy symbol with both hands, and feel entirely compelled to implore Flesh for his forgiveness in that very moment.

The sun is setting, and you have a party to attend.

Celegwen tightens her grasp on Ofelia. "We should be able to reach it in time, if we hurry."

>A) Make a break for the building. You've done so much without the Gods in the last few days- you want to rely on yourself, you want to uphold your word, and you want to see through your mission to the end. Now is not the time for hesitation.

>B) Mercy, this is more than you wanted right now. Seize the impulse to implore the God of the Material for his forgiveness. You have a horrific feeling that you are going to need His favor, and you know that you could use all of the help you could get right now.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3932715
>B) Mercy, this is more than you wanted right now. Seize the impulse to implore the God of the Material for his forgiveness. You have a horrific feeling that you are going to need His favor, and you know that you could use all of the help you could get right now.
Unless I missed some details along the way, we haven't been able to pray for forgiveness to any of the Gods yet.
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>>3932772
You haven't missed a thing. Our hero has been very distracted.
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>>3932715
>>B) Mercy, this is more than you wanted right now. Seize the impulse to implore the God of the Material for his forgiveness. You have a horrific feeling that you are going to need His favor, and you know that you could use all of the help you could get right now.
>>
>>3932772
>>3932787
Gonna lock the vote here, really want to get another update or two out tonight! Writing now.
>>
>>3932715
>B) Mercy, this is more than you wanted right now. Seize the impulse to implore the God of the Material for his forgiveness. You have a horrific feeling that you are going to need His favor, and you know that you could use all of the help you could get right now.
im voting anyways :^)
>>
>>3932964
Your steps falter for a moment, your hands unclasping from Mercy's symbol. You bring them back together, touching no gold, no symbol of Hers. You wish to evoke that of another. That of your own, trembling Flesh.

Looking out onto the field of blood and viscera before you, you can't ignore the cold fear running through your entirely abused and neglected form.

"Flesh- God of the Material- harbinger of strength- I- I implore you. Forgive me for my weakness."

Your palms are slick. It's hard to not notice that Celegwen's ring actually fits you properly now, resting firmly against your left index finger, clashing against the old wounds and pale skin. It's harder still to not recognize that the sun is coming down.

"Father, I would not dare to intervene with your work- but we are on a mission. We must keep moving."

She's right.

You feel like a man possessed. There's heat in your face, and you're entirely aware of how much stronger you feel. There isn't a God working through you. You've been gifted something by a demon.

Your head has only been light from the sheer volume of alcohol you've been drinking- but it's much clearer now. You're stronger than you've ever been. There's no better way to express yourself to the God of the Material than to use His gifts. They may be tainted, but you can't stand another second of abusing His works.

"You're absolutely right. ...Celegwen."

The religious fervor and abject fear in your eyes is unmistakable. It's mostly fear, but there's a small measure of devotion, and love.

"Let me carry Ofelia, and everything else."

Celegwen looks at you like you're insane. As a few moments pass, she seems as if she wants to protest, but your gaze is unwavering and the deadly seriousness of your request eventually makes her will crumble. Gently, gracefully, she helps you take literally everything off of her shoulders.

You both set out. Neither of you even look back towards the door.

You're exhausted from the march earlier in the day, but there's a drive to move, to do something with the demon's excess.

To express your worship, even in this small way.

Though Ofelia's form is completely slack, you're able to keep her shouldered with extreme ease, her small frame scarcely covering your broad shoulders. You're torn between holding her closer, and enduring the sensation of her pressing against the knotted scars- or holding her a bit more loosely, and risking rousing her while you're in a compromising position. You try to focus on practicality, on how excellent your lungs feel even when filled with the scent of copper, liquor, and smoke. You try to keep your breath steady, picking up the pace, watching with Celegwen as darkness eclipses the landscape before you all.

(1/3)
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>>3933031
Along the way, under your steady breath, you murmur a prayer. Mercy may always be with you, but you have been distant from the God of the Material for far too long. You've never taken care of yourself. You've called on Him, time and time again, and He has always seen fit to bless you- yet you have given Him so little in return.

You want Him to hear.

You probably need Him to hear. It's hard to not notice how much harder the brisker movement is, how heavy as you feel. Even prior to Agriculture working through you, you've never had any bulk. You could scarcely help out on the farm as a child. You wasted away for most of your youth, obsessively studying, praying, having the Gods take your vessel rather than do anything with it yourself.

You want to show Him that you have not forsaken his tenets.

https://youtu.be/bM7nZjGCBqs

The prayer is low, and you quickly find your voice- your confidence- your passion.

"Flesh of my flesh. Delayed is my worship. Too long has it been since I have walked beside you- and now- now, cloaked in shadow, marching through a valley of sin- I implore you. Hear me. See me. Feel me. I have disgraced the wisdom of the corporeal. My veins have run with neglect and indulgence, with far too much restraint and far too little and I beseech you. ...not to forgive me, not to take from me that which is rightfully broken. You do not take, you do not mar my form. Your wisdom is boundless, your gifts are immaculate, and I pray, Flesh- I pray, that you will permit me to retool this form. Grant me this weakness. From the broken and marred pews and bloated congregation of sin that has filled this most unholy church- I will find Your strength."

Your voice has gradually picked up in confidence, in vigor, in verve and in faith as you and your friends have made your way across the demon's lair. You look up, to the entrance of the lair, to the strange box resting on the crimson and the demon sitting inside. There have been none of its kind in your march, save for the growing sounds of ecstasy and celebration rising from inside the building.

This is no place for prayer.

You finish, regardless.

"My weakness is your strength."

Celegwen looks to you with no small measure of wonder as you tighten your hold on Ofelia, on the elf's things, parting your hands and approaching the box ahead without fear.

You have seen this creature before, in some capacity.

It's an owl, with clipped wings. It extends a nightmarish and impossibly long hand, attached somewhere else on its body. It reaches outside of the box, not coming anywhere near enough to you to be a threat. Yet, it holds its long and clawed fingers up promptly to stop you from approaching any further. The minor demon's face is distorted, its beak stretched into a grotesque parody of a smile, painted red and leering at you as it shrieks.

(2/3)
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>>3933035
"Welcome, welcome, welcome! Tickets! Mind the script! If I have to explain the dress code to another couple I'm going to claw someone's fucking eyes out! TICKETS! ATTIRE! YOU'RE GOING TO BE LATE!!"

It's fortunate that Celegwen's hands are almost empty. She places both to her delicate ears at the tail end of the demon's screeching, looking to you desperately for assistance. The demon's voice is a terrible blend of something avian and female, dripping with insanity.

"I'M NOT WAITING ANOTHER AGE FOR THIS SHIT! YOUR GRACIOUS HOST HAS REQUESTED YOUR PRESENCE AND YOU DIDN'T HAVE THE FUCKING DECENCY TO EVEN TRY ON HIS GIFTS?! BETTER MAKE IT SNAPPY! I'VE GOT A FEW HUNDRED KNIVES AND SOME POISON UNDER THIS COUNTER AND SO HELP ME I WILL WEAR YOU BOTH AS MY OWN STATEMENT PIECE INSIDE BEFORE I TELL MY MASTER THAT I DIDN'T SEE TO SUCH REVERED FUCKING GUESTS!"

You look around, equally distraught.

There's no question in your mind that this demon is itching for a chance to wear your skin.

I could probably take it in a fight- if it comes down to it.

You try to tell yourself this, as it's infinitely less terrifying than your dawning realization.

There's flat walls of flesh, and a hopelessly dark entrance leading into the moist corridor beyond. There are a few nice benches, made of nothing but veins and bone. There's a strand of sinew that vaguely looks like garland, and lights leading into the darkness that suck in everything around it.

The black lights are behind the ticket box, and the demon is staring at you, bug-eyed, looking as if virtually anything you do other than instantly changing and producing the tickets will set it off.

There's nowhere to change.

>A) Suck it up, and get into the clothing Remigius gave to you as quickly as you possibly can. Have Celegwen change Ofelia, and maybe see if you can pull a maneuver to keep as much of yourself covered as possible from the demon. Maybe the women will distract it. Better to get things over with now and get inside than to risk an altercation before you get in the door.

>B) You'd actually rather die than for someone to see you without your shirt on right now. Demand that the demon provide you and the ladies with you with some proper accommodations to better present yourselves to Remigius. Explain the situation and ham it up as much as you need to. Really lay into the "honored guest bit." Anything, so long as it gets you some privacy.

>C) Not only would you rather die sooner than to have anyone see you undressed right now- you don't particularly care for this demon threatening you and your friends. At all. You're seeing Remigius on your own terms. Show the ticket, and muscle your way inside if you need to. You're here to show Remigius Mercy- not its servant, and not someone who wants to skin you and your companions alive.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3933037
>B
>>
>>3933037
>>B) You'd actually rather die than for someone to see you without your shirt on right now. Demand that the demon provide you and the ladies with you with some proper accommodations to better present yourselves to Remigius. Explain the situation and ham it up as much as you need to. Really lay into the "honored guest bit." Anything, so long as it gets you some privacy.
>>
>>3933048
>>3933063
It's late, but I'm going to totally knock out another update. Might take a minute, but sit tight. Vote is locked.
>>
>>3933137
These are dark times.

This is truly a demon of the worst kind.

I'd take a few hundred knives- Mercy- any day- over this demon and- Celegwen...

I'd rather die than for someone to see me without a shirt on right now.

There's only one way out of this.

You assume your most formal, proper, and entirely pious attitude. You hate it, and usually save it for sermons, but this is much more mortifying than delivering a speech in front of hundreds of humans. "Your revered guests will not settle for disgracing themselves in the public eye."

Celegwen's head snaps to you, instantly getting it. She minds herself, letting you speak on her behalf.

It is the year 605.

You grimace, looking the owl demon up and down, gesturing with a free hand towards Celegwen as you keep hold on Ofelia. "I've brought with me two women to grace your master with. I come with no ill-will, bearing the invitation and gifts that were sent to me- and you- you have the nerve to spoil Remigius' hospitality?"

The demon recoils, if only slightly.

Mercy, is it good to be dealing with something I'm familiar with.

"I may see fit to not inform your master of your intolerance, your threats and your utter disregard for his command- but our time is short, and I do wish to enter his domain-"

"FINE. IT'S GETTING LATE. FUCK YOU. WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU WANT?!"

"Permit us some privacy. You've insulted the dignity of the women I've brought with me- and I don't believe I need to remind you of my own position."

Very gently, you set Ofelia down, glancing up at the demon with a hand inching towards your holy symbol.

"...or do I? Do I need to remind you of why your master has granted me entry-"

"STOP! DON'T-" the demon's voice whips around, plummeting into a lower, entirely submissive pitch. You take a step back, not expecting the extreme shift. Her wings bristle, the hand pulls back, her beak plummets into a grimace. "...don't you dare. Wait right here."

You look to Celegwen, almost wanting to wink, but you maintain an utterly straight face. She keeps up the ruse as well, going to Ofelia's side with no small measure of grace and subservience. The halfling, mercifully, is still unconscious.

A few moments pass. It's so dark ahead that it's difficult to make out anything- but the moment the figures ahead catch your eye, your fists tighten, your hair stands on end.

Why are there four of them now?

Mercy- this is so much worse-!

There's three demons shuffling out from the darkness ahead alongside the owl. Their bodies are entirely flat, thin as sheets- and vaguely reminiscent of curtains.

(1/2)
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>>3933152
The minor demon cranes her neck around completely, leering out of the shadows back at you. With a sickeningly sweet grin, fangs bared, lips dripping with paint, she croons, "best we can manage on such short notice! Shame you took your sweet fucking time getting here, there was such a spectacle of a line and my, was no one as stuck up as your pompous ass! HOPE THIS SUITS YOU FINE-"

"Not- not another step further!" You properly are holding your holy symbol now, looking intently towards the imps as they usher themselves forward on many tiny legs. They're each probably 10 feet long from end to end, the thin fabric of their loose skin wafting impossibly in a nonexistent breeze.

They do not appear to have eyes or ears, but they do obey your command.

You were looking so intently to the demons, you hadn't noticed it- but Celegwen is standing firmly in front of Ofelia, staff in hand. Her voice is a whisper, but your heart is racing, your blood is pumping, and you easily catch her words. "I will not compromise your mission, Father, but if they come any closer I will strike these creatures down where they stand. ...your safety is far more important than these petty reservations."

The darkness behind you all is almost absolute. You can't imagine being able to see anything in a few more moments.

>A) ...how convenient. Stall for time, and show up casually late to Remigius' engagement. Celegwen and the demons may be able to see well in the dark, but you'll be spared the trouble, and Ofelia is still unconscious. Insist that the demons keep their distance, oblige the ticket taker, and see if you can make your way in peacefully.

>B) You're legitimately frightened for how many demons were immediately called to the front of the building. Enough so that you aren't about to try Remigius' patience. Get behind the imps, reassure Celegwen that you're going to respect her privacy, and get this over with. You'll kill the demons if they ever breathe word of what they see.

>C) There's no way you're going along with this. If things are escalating this quickly before you even get inside, you need to assert yourself now. Tell the demons to step aside, and force your way in if you must. Have Celegwen try to wake up Ofelia while you're at it- you might need her help.

>D) Write-in.
>>
I have no clue what should we do in this situation
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>>3933153
Get behind the imps without shame,they have no reason to harm us considering they are pretty spooked.Pray to flesh quietly, we shouldnt disgrace him by being ashamed of ourselves, we bear the marks of lifelong service and devotion to the gods, we should do so with some semblance of pride.
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>>3933153
>B

Except not the frightened bit. We can smite these scrubs ez. Make sure the imps can't see before changing.
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>>3933231
secönd
>>
>>3933153
>B) You're legitimately frightened for how many demons were immediately called to the front of the building. Enough so that you aren't about to try Remigius' patience. Get behind the imps, reassure Celegwen that you're going to respect her privacy, and get this over with. You'll kill the demons if they ever breathe word of what they see.
The only thing that worries me about this option is whether or not the imps/owl demon count amongst those Mercy wanted us to help.
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>>3933231
supporting.
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>>3933227
Hang in there anon. I do sincerely appreciate you commenting.

>>3933231
>>3933601
>>3933825
No shame, and pray

>>3933508
>>3933727
Not frightened, still want to help.

The Gods would be so proud. Locking the vote, going to try and combine everything. Writing now!
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>>3933834
As the last of the sun climbs out of view, you scrutinize the imps standing before you. Their bodies are utterly devoid of any limbs, eyes, mouths or any other feature, save for their soft skin. You can only wonder what horror they were in life, to take on such a disturbing shape now.

Idonea was so vague when we last spoke. These demons are of no threat to me.
I could easily strike down three imps, especially with Celegwen at my side- but...
I am here to show Mercy.
Even if they're repulsive, I need to show restraint. I need to show them the reason for my mission.

Your voice takes on its usual tone. There's a lingering desire to scrub your mouth out with soap, after acting so high-and-mighty, but it will have to wait for another time.

"This- this will be fine. Thank you. Celegwen, I assure you, these demons cannot see or speak. ...your privacy will be respected. Can you- please, will you see to Ofelia?"

The elf doesn't balk, nodding her head and gingerly taking back the halfling. To your relief, she manages to not rouse her. Though it's bothering that Ofelia has been sleeping for so long, you know she likely hasn't rested in days, and surely needed the respite. More importantly still, the thought of her panicking upon awakening and setting off an incident of violence, or worse, is enough for you to use the utmost caution as you hand over the items Remigius gave to you.

You hadn't properly looked over the volume of silks, gold, pearls and jewels previously, but you have to take the garments apart to piece out what belongs to the women. It's all an odd fashion that you're entirely unfamiliar with, far more similar to what Yech was wearing than anything you've seen previously. Rather than the usual subdued, simplistic fabrics you're accustomed to seeing, everything is ornate and exaggerated. The gowns for the women are adorned with elaborate trim in gold and black, with fitted bodices, high collars, and exaggerated skirts. The dress meant for Ofelia is immediately evident, as it's half the size of anything else in the bag. You give both gowns over, the piles of jewelry, and a few items that you suspect are meant to be shoes of some sort before turning to leave.

Celegwen is keeping her distance from the demons, and uses the dress she was given as a makeshift screen as you see she sets down Ofelia to lend her a hand. You trust that she's capable enough to defend their honor, and look to the imps before you.

They're totally inert, having obeyed your command. The owl is back behind her box, using a knife to pick under her talons. "HURRY IT UP!"

You wince at her screech, but oblige, moving behind the imps and making sure they're positioned between you and the women before grabbing at the things you were given.

(1/3)
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>>3933937
It's ridiculously tasteful, and entirely suited to your station. The flawless ebony of the fabric catch on the last of the sunlight as you look over the silk tunic, the fur jacket, the gold trim that all seems to be perfectly tailored for you. Running along the front of the tunic and down the entirety of the sleeves of the jacket are no fewer than 40 solid gold buttons. There's a new belt, black and fastened with more gold- it's all so exorbitant that you're instantly reminded of the gold trim, pomp and ceremony that you're expected to exhibit. There's also yet another ridiculous hat that you suspect would conceal most of your scruffy hair.

You put everything on, regardless. A soft prayer to Flesh while you do so eases your nerves enormously. You are not afraid- but you are hyper aware, in the setting sun, of the hundreds of scars adorning your demon-blessed body. You wish now, more than ever, to seek the favor of the God.

As you set to fastening the extreme number of buttons, it's hard to miss the scars along your hands. The old burns, from scalding water and unbearable frost. The cuts, deep punctures and old openings from the weapons of the enemy, the blessings of the Gods, the callouses and bites...

There's nothing to be ashamed of, is there? Really?

The tunic fits properly- the first time something has in a few days- and it's a welcome relief. The knitted flesh in your back from having saved the lives of all of your friends doesn't catch on the silk. The raised scars feel phenomenal, against the soft and forgiving fabric- as does every sword, dagger and ax wound in your side.

I bear the marks of lifelong service and devotion to the gods. ...I should do so with some semblance of pride. Shouldn't I?

It's been so long since you really felt anything about the old gashes along your legs, your feet- from wading into unknown territory, from being taken captive, from kicking down doors and trying to rescue those trapped behind enemy lines.

You feel a good deal better about them, even concealed as they are now. Your prayer to Flesh continues- not nearly as dramatic as your earlier plea for forgiveness, but a simple litany, to remind the God and yourself of your thoughts, your devotion.

The clothing that you have been given fits like a glove. It feels spectacular- far nicer than anything else you've ever worn, and you're confident that you look infinitely more presentable now. There's a lingering desire to burn the ill-fitting shirt that you'd been wearing from Yech, but you shove the rest of your clothing away, and step out.

"...Flesh of my flesh, we thank you for Your strength."

Your jaw drops.

(2/3)
>>
>>3933940
Celegwen seems to have needed to wake Ofelia out of necessity. Your prayer had to have masked anything they were whispering to each other, as they're both talking to one another in very subdued voices. The halfling is extremely on edge, dagger in hand, and is trying to find a way to fasten a number of garter belts along her upper thigh to keep more handy. The flash of freckled skin immediately has you turn around, murmuring a prayer to Mercy as quickly as you're able.

The demon behind the counter's laughter is uglier than even Malimos' earth-shattering howls. You try to ignore it, processing the glimpse of both women in extraordinarily fine gowns, their bosoms emphasized to an extreme by tight fitting lace, their hips accentuated by remarkably full skirts, their thighs exposed to the open air by a single slit in the fine silks and lace-

"Richard?"

Ofelia is right next to you. You jump, and glance down to her, hand on your holy symbol.

The halfling's chest and hips are unmistakably fuller than before. She's looking up to you with heat in her face, most of the liquor still clinging to her. Her voice is level, but the look she's giving you is more than you can stand. You glance back away as she stutters. "N-no way. No fuckin' way. You look great!"

You're really not sure how to feel about this. You want to have some pride, some confidence, to not be afraid- but this entire situation is so far out of your depth of experience that you just want to get it over with.

A sliver of light hangs over the entrance to the demon's domain. Celegwen gracefully makes her way over to you, her skirts scarcely moving as she seems to float over the flesh and bone beneath you all.

She also seems completely floored. She also is looking you over, and giving you a look that you aren't entirely sure that you like, until-

Until she takes you by the hand.

You almost pull away on reflex, but Ofelia saves you.

"Gwen, what the fuck do you think you're doin'? We went over this, yer my fuckin' date. Leave the poor guy alone."

The halfling looks up to you with a wink, as she wrap her self- her arm adorned in a glove of deep blue, far past the elbow- around Celegwen, prying her away.

Your heart rate dies down, if only slightly. Ofelia puts herself between you and Celegwen, holding firmly onto the elf's arm with great difficulty. She settles on taking Celegwen's hand, and with a sincere look of thanks to your friend, you all approach the minor demon.

You fish out the ticket, and present it without any fanfare. An uncannily flexible and clawed hand swipes it out from your extended fingers. It disappears into a puff of feathers and blood before your eyes- you pull your hand away at the last moment, as the bird croons to you all.

"LAST DOOR ON THE RIGHT! ENJOY THE FUCKING SHOW!"

You glance behind you- the imps are already shuffling back in the building ahead of you. The sunlight is gone, but you seem to have made it on time.

(Slightly over, 3/4)
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>>3933942
The demon behind the counter is extending something out towards you.

It's a black cane, topped with gold and black diamonds.

"COURTESY OF YOUR HOST! DON'T MAKE ME SHOVE IT UP YOUR ASS!!"

>A) You're going to enjoy this. You know you look fantastic- possibly for the first time in your life. Take the cane, take the women, and go into the demon's lair with some pride. You've earned some self-respect. You know that you're here to do the right thing. Wait a moment for the imps to get ahead, and then head in.

>B) Take the cane, but keep Ofelia between you and Celegwen. You're entirely off-put by Celegwen's silence and unusual behavior, and you aren't about to let your guard down. Keep your eyes peeled for danger, and don't let any of the fanfare get to your head. Besides, you aren't entirely certain if halfling standards for men are indicative of how a human- or a demon- would see you.

>C) You got your invitation in. This demon may seem utterly insane, but you're not about to go into this lair blind. Ask a few questions. (Write-in anything you may wish to ask).

>D) Write-in.
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>>3933943
>>B) Take the cane, but keep Ofelia between you and Celegwen. You're entirely off-put by Celegwen's silence and unusual behavior, and you aren't about to let your guard down. Keep your eyes peeled for danger, and don't let any of the fanfare get to your head. Besides, you aren't entirely certain if halfling standards for men are indicative of how a human- or a demon- would see you.
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>>3933943
>B

This elf is too thirsty
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>>3933943
>B) Take the cane, but keep Ofelia between you and Celegwen. You're entirely off-put by Celegwen's silence and unusual behavior, and you aren't about to let your guard down. Keep your eyes peeled for danger, and don't let any of the fanfare get to your head. Besides, you aren't entirely certain if halfling standards for men are indicative of how a human- or a demon- would see you.
Though Richard can't say he doesn't like this.

>>3933958
>This elf is too thirsty
You say that like it's a bad thing, coming from a fucking elf of all things. Everybody knows elves are for fucking and breeding senselessly, even elves themselves know this. Or is that the doujins talking...?
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>>3933951
>>3933958
>>3934114
Thanks for your patience guys, locking the vote here. Writing now.
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File: Entering a new Domain.png (2.33 MB, 2373x1704)
2.33 MB
2.33 MB PNG
>>3934337
Without hesitation, you take hold of the cane extended before you.

I can't say that I don't like this, at least.

The owl bares her fangs at you, either trying to smile or still threatening you. She lets go of the item a second later than she really should, screeching at you all as you turn to leave.

Ofelia keeps your pace, her head tilting ever so slightly from the motion, her freckles obscured by her flush. Both women are staring intently at you- you want to look away, to focus entirely on the task at hand, but you're worried for Celegwen. The elf is being unusually quiet, even for her. You don't think it's the utterly ridiculous hat she's been trusted with, or even Ofelia pulling her away from getting far too intimate with you.

No matter how much I want to enjoy myself, I need to stay alert. ...this is still the lair of a demon. No matter how hospitable they are.

The darkness behind you all is absolute, as you step beyond the black lights, deep into the moist passage before you.

https://youtu.be/-4CBMt71yY8

The curtain of muffled screams and pounding music parts in an instant. You almost stagger backwards, greatful for the cane, as you're hit hard with the smell of sex, blood, and smoke. The music is from a number of instruments you've never heard, the throbbing percussion picking up your pulse, a mild headache, and having you looking around immediately for the source. You put out a hand instantly to stop the women from taking a step further.

Everything is red. Flat walls, devoid of decoration, punctuated only with two open hallways leers out at you. There's a sharp split, immediately, as the angular corridor branches hard to the left and right. Out of prudence, you peek your head around the leftmost corridor first.

The source of at least half of the screams and moans is made evident by countless demons, all dressed garishly, all grinding against one another. There looks to be a huge expanse of black lights, red walls, bars adorned with vaguely humanoid figures dancing, and more demons than you've ever seen in one place moving against one another to the rhythm that's pulsing through your skull. The ceiling is dripping with blood, smoke hangs heavy in the air, and you have never been so worried for your life.

You pull back from the corner, a hand to your holy symbol. There was also a fair amount of liquor out there, staircases winding up and away to private rooms- but the demons. You couldn't count them all. There must have been no fewer than 50, from every level of the hierarchy.

Save for an archdemon.

Ofelia and Celegwen both look to you with concern, but you can't hear their words over the music.

You lean in, trying to hear them.

It's not helping.

The music is really not helping your head.

Mercy, does it have to be so loud?

(1/2)
>>
>>3934406
Ofelia pulls hard on the bottom of your jacket, gesturing for you to kneel down to her. You oblige, and she pulls you in, only an inch from her lips.

"I said- what did you see?!"

You wince at the impossible increase in volume. Not wanting to shout back, you point around the corner, gesturing for the halfling to be cautious.

She pulls Celegwen with her, and they both instantly pull their heads back. Ofelia somehow, instantly, has two daggers in either hand.

You swallow, hard, and don't hesitate.

You look to the right.

The corridor is incredibly long, and perfectly straight. It reminds you of a coffin, with its flat wooden walls, the dripping flesh clinging to the narrow planks. The darkness. You can still somehow see to the very end, and it seems as if the music would die down as you move along.

What bothers you isn't that you'd all, no doubt, be instantly seen once you turn the corner.

It's what's in the walls.

There are spaces in between the planks of wood, punctuating the darkness. Red light sifts out into the corridor, as no doubt 20 or more rooms are illuminated from countless more demons in revelry. The screams of a number of them tearing each other to pieces drifts over to you, through a haze of pleasure, of groans, of fornication and murder- and it appears both at the same time, in many places. There are also demons alone, dancing, a testament to their own sin, their own mutilated and utterly abused forms- owning it, celebrating it, leering towards you, beckoning for you to come closer.

"...Mercy."

The cacophony of sex, violence, and more sin than you've ever laid your eyes on at once is almost more than you can stand. You take the Goddesses name not out of disbelief, but out of the sheer depravity of it all. You can't help but flush from the volume of skin, leather, lace and paint you've laid eyes on.

Your headache is getting worse by the second, and you've only just entered the building.

Ofelia tugs on your coat again. You realize you have a hand to your temple, and look down to her with pain coloring your sight.

Her and Celegwen gesture towards the rightmost corridor. The halfling gives you a reassuring smile, baring her weapons with a great deal of enthusiasm.

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3934409
>A) Quickly and clearly stress that no one is getting killed if you can help it. Make a break for the end of the corridor, as quickly as you can. You aren't sneaking anywhere. You were invited to this demon's lair, and you trust Remigius to not lure you into a death trap. Not when Yech wanted to help him. Not when Idonea knows you're here.

>B) There's absolutely no way you can handle seeing this much debauchery at once. Take Ofelia's free hand, and have her guide you all. You're closing your eyes, and praying, and swearing to Mercy, Flesh and Spirit that nothing you see or feel in this place is going to bring you any pleasure. Maybe shutting out the glaring lights will help with your headache, as well.

>C) You're not messing around. Every demon in this place can see down these hallways. Come out with your hand to your holy symbol, and have your friends make it apparent that they're prime to attack if threatened, as well. You're on a mission of peace, but you can hear demons tearing each other apart on the other side of these walls.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3934412
>>A) Quickly and clearly stress that no one is getting killed if you can help it. Make a break for the end of the corridor, as quickly as you can. You aren't sneaking anywhere. You were invited to this demon's lair, and you trust Remigius to not lure you into a death trap. Not when Yech wanted to help him. Not when Idonea knows you're here.
>>
>>3934412
>A) Quickly and clearly stress that no one is getting killed if you can help it. Make a break for the end of the corridor, as quickly as you can. You aren't sneaking anywhere. You were invited to this demon's lair, and you trust Remigius to not lure you into a death trap. Not when Yech wanted to help him. Not when Idonea knows you're here.
>>
>>3934416
>>3934461
Normally don't like to close the vote so soon but I really want to get a few more updates out tonight! Locking the vote, writing now.
>>
>>3934464
As badly as you don't want to shout, you're left with little other choice. Leaning in as close as you can to Ofelia, you gesture to Celegwen to kneel down as well. The elf obliges, holding her hat in place as she comes in closer- her chest brushing against you slightly. Ofelia's bosom is heaving as well, pressing up against her bodice, her breath obviously heavy from the smoke, liquor- and that damn look she won't stop giving you. You want to take a step back instantly, but you there's no other way they can hear you.

"No one is getting killed in here! Move- quickly! This way!"

It's all business, as you all pull back. Ofelia frowns, stowing her daggers, and keeping close to your side as she holds onto Celegwen.

You turn the corner, and your blood runs cold.

The music instantly stops.

A light- piercing, and insanely bright- sweeps from the dance floor straight onto you. You see no flame. It's coming from a bright sphere, hot and illuminating you against the darkness beyond in an instant.

Sorcerery...?

You can't help it, taking your hand from your holy symbol to hold it over your eyes. Celegwen moves to rush in front of you, but Ofelia seems to hold her back, for a moment.

The screams, the moans, and the sounds of revelry all stop.

A voice dripping with debauchery and gratification soaks into you. Neither male nor female, corporeal nor inside your head- it's everywhere, seeming to come from inside the very walls.

"Attention, attention! My myriad malefactors, my misguided miscreants, my marvelous malfeasants: the man of the hour has arrived! Our honored guest!!"

You do not hesitate, gesturing for Ofelia and Celegwen to follow after you. Briskly, you start to walk down the corridor to the right, turning your back to the tension on the dance floor. The dozens of demons are looking around for the source of the noise, but all of them are jeering, screaming, calling after you.

Calling for you.

Your steps pick up speed with each passing word from the bodied voice.

"You may know him as a murderer! He's certainly put away more than most of you lesser faggots, try as you might to tear each other apart! Well- go on! Shed a little fucking blood out there! Don't let the monologue fucking stop you!"

There's a tremendous cry behind you as countless small voices scream in ecstasy and begin to tear into one another. Ofelia is having to run to keep up with your pace, with how quickly you're now striding forward. There's a cold sweat on you- and to your extreme horror, your slick skin is grabbed at for a moment. A hand from one of the gaps in the walls alongside you pulls and drags- not taking you in closer, but begging for attention.

The voice behind the cracks is obscene, cracked, decayed, cloying onto you with the smell of heat and something pungent as it sticks to the inside of your skull. "C'mere, Daddy, show me a little bit of your blessing~"

(1/2)
>>
>>3934494
You tear the succubus off, backing up, nearly knocking over Ofelia and Celegwen. Within moments, there's more- there's so many more. It's like everyone in the hallway is reaching out to you.

The women stopped running the moment you were pulled. Ofelia isn't holding the elf's hand any longer. They go to either side of you, flanking you as you all continue to move ahead.

"You may know him as a home-breaker! A pyro, a vandal, a thief- my, I could just go on and on! But that's not why we're all here tonight, is it?!

The screams behind and all around you are deafening. It's much louder than the music was.

"NO!!!"

You do start running. You're all running, as quickly as you're able.

"That's right! But I don't need to say anything, do I?! You know who he is, don't you all?! Go give our honored guest a little sugar, a little hospitality! Mama Idonea's asked us for our COURTESY! GO SHOW IT TO HIM!"

There is a rush of movement, of glasses shattering, of hundreds of feet being picked up as the music resumes.

https://youtu.be/bh66pGIhysQ

It's somehow louder than before.

Your headache is reaching critical mass.

Though you've been running, the hallway before you seems to be getting longer. The end of it seems just as far away as when you first started running, and a few of the demons near the end are trying to break through the walls.

A quick glance over your shoulder at the commotion shows every single demon filing off of the dance floor, and into the narrow hallway behind you.

They do not have weapons drawn.

They're dancing.

>A) Scream to Celegwen over the din to do something about the hallway. Maybe it's an illusion. Maybe it's sorcerery. Maybe she can throw Ofelia to the end, you don't care, you need to do SOMETHING, and you need to do it now.

>B) Pray to Flesh to bring the end of the hallway to you. He should still be able to hear you over the music, the debauchery, the sin. The Flesh is cursed- but its weakness is His strength. Make a break for the last door on the right, and seal it behind you, if you must.

>C) These demons aren't attacking you. They may be depraved, they may be literally calling for your blood- but they seem, oddly enough- to be excited to see you. Stop running, and make your way to the end of the hall with a calm mind. Exhibit some restraint. Show them Mercy.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3934496
>>C) These demons aren't attacking you. They may be depraved, they may be literally calling for your blood- but they seem, oddly enough- to be excited to see you. Stop running, and make your way to the end of the hall with a calm mind. Exhibit some restraint. Show them Mercy.
>>
>>3934496
>C) These demons aren't attacking you. They may be depraved, they may be literally calling for your blood- but they seem, oddly enough- to be excited to see you. Stop running, and make your way to the end of the hall with a calm mind. Exhibit some restraint. Show them Mercy.
>>
>>3934518
>>3934526
Calling here to get one more update out for the night!

Work again in the morning, so I'll either be able to put out one quick update before my shift, or will be back tomorrow evening, around 8PM EST.

Writing now.
>>
>>3934535
The glance takes you so aback, you slow your steps. Ofelia's screams over the music are scarcely audible, but you do catch something along the lines of "WHY THE FUCK ARE YOU STOPPING-"

There's no hostility here. You completely slow to a stop, putting a hand to your chest, catching your breath for a moment, and looking to your companions.

The succubi leering through the walls aren't making any gestures to grab at them.

They're all reaching for you.

Ofelia and Celegwen back up, pressing themselves against you, trying to take up as little space in the corridor as possible. Though you want to think that they're doing so to protect you, you don't miss the deep red streaked across Ofelia's face, or how firmly Celegwen's back is laying into you. You'd almost be willing to enjoy the heat, the pressure- but the pain in your head is almost unbearable, and you are here for a reason.

I am here to show Mercy.

You pull back from both of them, and start walking, fearlessly, down the corridor ahead. Your steps are deliberate, nearly matching the beat around you as the demons close in. Ofelia and Celegwen instantly are at your side, looking frantically behind you.

Idonea wouldn't permit her children to kill me. Not when she needs me.

The demons behind you are unbearably close. The pulsing, throbbing music carries over their screams, but some of their voices are so shrill and sharp that you can unmistakably hear their jeers, regardless.

The expletives and obscenities that the demons are calling you are so far beyond your scope of sin that you don't dare to try and internalize them. You flush, deeply, at being referred to in such a way, and keep walking ahead.

Yech wanted to help this demon. Remigius couldn't possibly have set me up for death. That was his voice, wasn't it? It didn't sound like any man, or any demon I've ever heard-

Your thoughts are cut short, as the demons close in on you and your friends. Ofelia and Celegwen seem torn between wanting to protect you, and wanting to run- but they both move in closer, holding themselves against your frame as if they could shield you with their very skin from the incoming mass.

There's no fewer than five demons, shoulder-to-shoulder, at any given point in the hallway behind you. The entire corridor has turned into a thrumming hive of horns, leather, spikes, deadened flesh, blood, dripping viscera, and lust. You shout to Ofelia and Celegwen.

"I know you are afraid- but we are here to show them Mercy! They aren't attacking-!"

You're nearly knocked over by a demon sliding in, next to Ofelia and Celegwen, and grinding hard against you. You shove it back as firmly as you can- the lesser female's blue skin and the gaping wound where her chest once was heaves with laughter as she's pulled back into the throbbing crowd. More demons quickly eclipse her form, closing in around you and your friends.

Ofelia screams back at you. "Are you sure?!"

(1/2)
>>
>>3934578
Something grabs at you- you can't tell what, or where, as there are demons completely filling the corridor. The reds, blacks, sickly yellows and greens all meld together, monsters made in mockery of everything they once abused in life, eternally disgracing in something altogether worse than death. You try to keep your breathing level, your heart steady, but the pulse of the music, the proximity of so much threat, the flesh leaning against your own on all sides has your heart in your throat. Your headache, miraculously, seems to be improving from the exertion- though you aren't entirely sure why.

There is a thick smoke in the air. You hadn't noticed it at first, but the longer you walk towards the end of the corridor, the thicker it seems to get. It's getting dramatically harder to breathe, as the bodies around you are suffocating. The demons that have filtered in are taking the brunt of the succubi, clawing at the walls, slipping into them where they can. The rest seem far more interesting in simply being next to you.

Is this some kind of sick thrill for them?

You silently thank Mercy for the monsters keeping their hands at bay from you and your friends, despite how hot you are, despite the smoke, the thrum of the music, the sounds of sex and violence and things you really should not be experiencing as a man of the cloth.

The screams of the demons around you had drowned out every attempt Celegwen's light voice has made to communicate anything to you, despite her leaning right against your body. She finally seems to snap, grabbing firmly onto your shoulder, leaning right in your ear.

"-sign! There's a sign!"

"What?!"

"READ IT-!"

She's furious, pointing to the end of the corridor. It seems infinitely closer now. Within a stone's throw, at worst, but there's a wall of demons now in between it and you.

Above a wall of quilted fabric, with absolutely no door in sight, is a single, glowing sign. The final word is entirely torn off, though your heart sinks the further you read.

Your road's been long, quite a grueling journey,
You've said it before, oh so perversely,
Now say it again! It won't hurt you, see?
FUCK _____

The demon is obviously not a poet, but you instantly get it.

"M-mercy."

Celegwen screams at you again.

"IT'S A-."

"A WHAT?!"

"A SPELL! IT HAS TO BE READ IN FULL!"

"NO!"

A succubus reaches out to you, and a demon tears the creature's arm clean off of its body with a single motion. It happens so quickly, you can't properly react, as it attacks the female form with its mouth. A gap is left in the wall of flesh for only a moment. Ofelia glances to the corpse on the floor, blood smeared across her face as she looks back to you both, and finally to the sign. She tries shouting something, looking worse for the wear, but her words can't be heard over the din.

(My b, 2/3)
>>
>>3934580
Everything on Aerth seems to move, except for the wall ahead of you. The bodies around you pick up their rhythm. A greater demon, vaguely resembling a moth, drags a pair of feelers along your shoulders before you shove her away. A horned imp, short and thin, comes in on the other side, trying to slide underneath your legs before being dragged away by a pair of hoofed appendages. A major demon, made entirely of veins, leers at you from behind it, screaming something you can't hear in an unholy voice under the music. There's revelry, and heat, and so much red you can barely stand it.

Celegwen shouts, her lips moving in the same fashion that Ofelia's did a second before.

Absolutely nothing happens.

She looks to you, leaning in again, screaming, "YOU MUST BE THE TRIGGER, THERE IS NO OTHER-"

"WHAT?!"

"YOU HAVE TO SAY IT!"

>A) No. Absolutely not. You'll literally break down the door before you disgrace Her name. You're invoking Flesh, tearing down the wall, and no one is going to stand between you and the demon responsible for this ruse.

>B) No. Absolutely not. Ask Celegwen to dissipate the glyph entirely. It's likely powerful, but you would rather ask her to do this for you than to jeopardize your connection with the Goddess any further. It's one thing to not show restraint, or to accept favors from a demon. It's sacrilege to swear against Her.

>C) You'll complete the ritual. Shout out the expletive, take the Goddesses' name in vain. You are here for a mission from Mercy, directly from Her form, to seek Her relic, and you are going to find a way to make this up to Her. You've dedicated your life to Her. Surely, one more sin against Her could be forgiven.

>D) Write-in.
>>
Night everyone! Like I said before, I'll try to update tomorrow before work. If there aren't enough votes I'll be back later tomorrow evening.
>>
>>3934581
Hmm.. C is definitely out. So A or B, thoughts?
>>
>>3934650
"This entire party" will insta-aggro everyone after a hilarious record-scratch moment
Something that ends with "Remi" might work as an insult directly to Remigius if this is really a spell that'll work
...what about "everybody trying to kill me"?
>>
>>3934650
"Fuck you for forcing me, Remi"?
>>
>>3934581
I like this idea: >>3934676. It does rhyme, after all.
>>
>>3934650
>>3934676
>>3934780
>>3934787
Good morning! Really good shit guys. Locking the vote here, writing now.
>>
>>3934890
There's nothing this demon could do that would make me swear against Mercy.

The heat, the music, the pulsing of the floor and walls, the constant grind of the two women being forced against you, the demons closing in, their bodies moving, dancing, is all too much. Your heart is pounding, you're slick with sweat, and as a man of the cloth you're deeply concerned for everything else you're feeling as well.

You take a deep breath. Almost imperceptibly, the music gets a little quieter as you take another.

In a very low voice, you wince, murmuring, "F-fuck you..."

The world doesn't come to an end. You aren't stricken down by lightning. There is no divine retribution, though several demons around you are grinning so widely that their faces literally split open.

You try and finish the spell.

"F-for forcing me, R-Remi...?"

Nothing happens. The music is absolutely, noticeably quieter now, though.

Several of the demons near you have stopped dancing. Celegwen and Ofelia are both nearly on top of you, being pinned hard by multiple demons struggling with or subduing the succubi on the edges of the corridor.

You try again, this time a little louder.

"F-fuck everybody- trying to kill me..."

Ofelia looks straight up to you, her eyes wide with surprise, and to the sign over the door. Either too drunk to restrain herself, or out of nervousness, she starts to laugh.

Celegwen leans in, and murmurs, now easily heard over the quieter music, "you must say it with conviction, Father. Spells come from within. ...do be careful."

It seems like the entire corridor has stopped moving. A few demons, far in the back, are leering over the crowd with eye stalks and lifting each other up to get a better look at what's going on at your end of the festivities. The succubi on the interior of the walls are largely dead, but most of them are still being made love to, dismembered, or both in some capacity. You look around at the mass of demons standing between you and the end of the hallway, at the mass of sin, the congregation of disgraced Flesh.

With absolute sincerity, you complete the spell.

The moment you begin to speak, the words that fall from you take on their own form. You're instantly aware that changing the verbiage is affecting the way that the spell operates, but you're inexperienced. Having never performed any sort of sorcery, you have no idea what you're doing, and the mechanism rapidly gets taken away from you.

"The road was lethal, devoid of all courtesy,
I know your game, to instill in me heresy!
I'll insult you once more, Rem's debauched army-
Fuck this entire party!"

The music had waned over the course of the verse, and upon the utterance of the last line, entirely stops.

Every single head in the room is staring straight at you.

(1/3)
>>
>>3934938
You hear no fewer than ten knives being sharpened. A few demons hiss, laugh, and screech. Those that were still grinding against you, Ofelia and Celegwen promptly stop.

Both women look at you with abject horror. Celegwen's is a lot more prominent. The sorceress looks at you as if you've just killed someone.

"Father, that was not the correct incantation-"

There's a nightmarish tearing sound from the end of the corridor. You feel as if something deep, deep inside of you is tearing, as well.

There's a tear forming in the fabric ahead. It's incredibly thin, but it's there.

You clutch onto your side for a moment- the sensation is like nothing you've ever felt before. It's like a wound has opened somewhere in your body, and you can't pin where- but you want to hold yourself together, to fix the opening, to mend the tear. The pain is sharp, cutting, and your face flushes, your body seizes for a moment- in a blend of satisfaction and horror, something you haven't felt in days but are beginning to think may be permanent.

Simultaneously, almost every single demon in the corridor starts to move. The music has completely stopped, and many of them are screaming for your blood. Some of them are screaming for even worse things, as well, and you do not wish to try and make sense of several dozens threats being made to every inch of you simultaneously.

Celegwen is looking to you with the utmost concern. "Father. Are you alright?"

Ofelia's voice finally finds itself. "We need to move-"

You're grimacing, and try to stay upright. The pain is far better than most that you've felt, but the sensation is so bizarre that you're struggling to deal with it. What's worse, you can't say that you don't like it. Your eyes are heavy and altogether unfocused as you try to right yourself. Once again, you're glad for the cane, using it for support for a moment before gathering your strength. You need your strength- as the waves of demons around you are rapidly going from merely jeering at you all to properly trying to attack.

Ofelia has her weapons out, and you catch her using the blunt end of a dagger to bludgeon the skull of an imp that tries to grab onto her. "You guys stay close, okay?"

The halfling practically drags you, pulling hard on the side of your jacket again, as she weaves ahead in between a slip in the demons that you didn't think possible. You're double her size, and jostle the monsters next to her that she so readily ducked between. You try and grab onto Celegwen's arm, pulling her with you as she uses her staff like a wedge to drive apart and stave back the horde behind you all.

(2/3)
>>
>>3934940
Picking through the wall of bodies ahead of you, Ofelia manages with relative ease to slip ahead, but you're struggling. The sensation of something being torn is making movement fairly difficult, and you're having a much harder time than usual picking through a mob. It takes what feels like an eternity to make it through the few yards of demons, but you all do get to the opening ahead.

There's absolute darkness, but Ofelia fearlessly looks inside.

She is pulled in by something, with a small shout.

Celegwen actually screams, as her hair is grabbed onto by a minor demon just behind you. Losing her ridiculous hat, she's valiantly still holding the line, but you know you only have seconds to react.

>A) Risk hurting Celegwen, and pull her into the opening with you. She's survived worse than having her hair pulled, and the situation is dire. You can't risk staying and fighting, and you don't want to leave Ofelia alone in this place for a second.

>B) Fight off the demons to your back as best as you're able to, first.
>1) Use your fists. You're unaccustomed to using your body for anything other than prayer or invocations, but your blood is pumping, and you would rather try to continue showing Flesh your worship than to call on Him now.
>2) Pray to Flesh for his strength, fend off the demons around you, and bring Celegwen inside the opening knowing you can take on whatever lies in wait.

>C) Write-in.
>>
Holy shit OP. I can’t decide again. This is fucking awesome. Everything might lead to out ruin.
>>
>>3934942
Would we be abusing flesh I wonder? Would using it even be possible after drinking demon beer? Thing are not threatening yet, so maybe use the first only? These are minor deamons after all?
>>
>>3934942
>B) Fight off the demons to your back as best as you're able to, first.
HARNESS THE POWER OF THE PIMP CANE AND YOUR OWN FISTS
>>
>>3934942
>>B) Fight off the demons to your back as best as you're able to, first.
>>1) Use your fists. You're unaccustomed to using your body for anything other than prayer or invocations, but your blood is pumping, and you would rather try to continue showing Flesh your worship than to call on Him now.
Orgy beatdown it is, considering whats going on around us i think this is actually how we are supposed to act.
>>3934986
Seconding the pimp slap approach, i want the holy hand of Richard to obliterate some random imp so badly.
>>
>>3934960
Just a quick clarification, wasn't sure if it was apparent or not but there is every level of demon here excluding any archdemons. You've seen imps, greater, major, lesser and minor in this corridor. The one that grabbed Celegwen is minor, but just wanted to make sure you were all on the same page.

At work, but I'll be home to update around 8PM EST.
>>
>>3934955
Also thanks dude, means a lot!
>>
>>3934986
slap slap! +1
>>
>>3934955
>>3934960
>>3934986
>>3934994
>>3935247
FINALLY home. Locking the vote, making some food, writing ASAP.
>>
Missed the window, but what I would've voted for won anyway.

Looking forward to this!
>>
>>3935621
Means a lot dude, thanks for waiting. Postin'!
>>
>>3935573
One of your allies has vanished into dangers unknown. Another is in imminent danger. Dozens of demons are thrashing before you. Your life could end at any moment.

You're in your element.

You leap forward at them.

https://youtu.be/H1Zm6E6Sy4Y

The music kicks back up tenfold, throbbing, pulsing. You've never heard a melody accompanied by anything other than a hymn, a chant. The rhythm is nothing fit for a church. The voice beating through the walls is something far more sinister. It's unholy.

It's obviously directed at you.

There's no time to properly scrutinize its meaning as you swing your cane down on the back of the minor demon clinging onto Celegwen's hair, shouting out, and using every ounce of your newfound strength to slam the bloodied creature to the floor. Your shoulders, back and arms feel absolutely fantastic from the exertion. It's like your muscles are begging, burning to work.

It's a good thing. The retaliation is immediate.

A number of imps rush forward under the legs of the crowd ahead, while the claws, nails, talons and weapons around you all seem to unsheathe at once. With gratitude and no small measure of fear, Celegwen tears herself away from the demon still trying to cling to her, and attempts to look up to you. The moment of distraction costs her dearly, as she's nearly knocked to the ground by two of the imps that break through. She screams again, thrashing with all of her might to escape.

You try to strike back, to protect her, and are instantly reminded that you came in here unarmed, with peaceful intent. Your right arm is cut into within seconds as you swing your cane up to try and deflect a barrage of incoming weapons.

Are they weapons?

Whips, flogs, paddles- a number of blunt or nearly harmless instruments are brought down near you, but none of them seem immediately lethal.

They do elicit something worse than an instant death.

You reel for a moment, the gold and heat blinding as pain and pleasure crash into you in waves. There's an uproar of lacivious jeering as you right yourself, trying to suppress the sounds that are threatening to escape you. The blood you can feel coursing under your sleeves is slick, hot, and mixes with your sweat, the undercurrent of mounting pleasure you've been trying to ignore.

It's only been a few moments, but there are so many more demons still trying to break through the wall of bodies. Everyone is pressed so tightly together, writhing, screaming for your blood, that they can scarcely make it through. You're shoulder-to-shoulder with a demon made entirely of leather, who tries to peel you back from aiding your friend to no avail as you swing your makeshift weapon down onto him. You rip yourself away from as many demons as you can, but there are far more next to him, reaching out, trying to grab you.

(1/3)
>>
>>3935717
A greater demon, with nails like barbed wire, takes hold of your shoulder, tearing into the silks and slicing your skin wide open. You can't help but gasp, and in complete revulsion and desire for revenge, you turn as best as you can to punch the demon squarely in its face.

You shred your knuckles in an instant, as the demon's skin turns to more wire the instant before you make contact.

A proper moan escapes, something that can't be stifled despite your best efforts. The immediate horror that no fewer than several dozen demons likely heard you draw back, barely able to restrain yourself as you cry out, "Mercy-!"

The blood kicks the demons around you into a frenzy, eliciting more screams, and far too many imitations of your moan to not want to kill every single one of them with your bare hands.

Your bleeding, wounded hands.

Celegwen is screaming. You whip your head around to see her being dragged back towards the crowd, her bodice torn in multiple places, her legs exposed as her dress is being hiked back. The sorceress is shouting something at you that you can't hear over the deafening music, as she desperately tries to drive back the imps that are covering her.

With a grimace, you don't even dignify the creatures with a weapon. You pull away from the barbed wire, shredding your hands and shoulder further, biting down hard to stifle another gasp of pleasure.

You don't channel the Gods. You channel the frustration, the agony, the ecstasy, to sweep your entire arm and backhand the imp on Celegwen's bodice clean off of her body.

It's immediately apparent that you have no idea just how brutally strong you are now. The contact is far more intense than you expected. It catches your breath in your throat, keeping contact on the imp for a few precious seconds. Your hand practically fuses to it, before the creature is knocked back against the wall of demons ahead of you. Blood and viscera from your own flesh arcs through the air as you and the imp separate.

You can't help but watch it for a moment before the creature slides to the floor, unconscious.

No one in the crowd seems bothered. Their thrashing, writhing, shouting and overwhelming sin seems to redouble. You're jostled, hard, as you smack down another imp, beating it over the back with your cane for good measure once it's entirely off of Celegwen. The force of the blow travels through your weapon, along your arms and through your entire body as you squash the urge to beat the creature to death for what it's done.

It's almost like the demons were waiting to continue their assault until you finished attacking.

Your friend is still screaming, having given up on saving her decency to tear the demons off of her. It looks like she's trying to cast a spell. Her dress is getting shredded around her bodice and hips, her legs bared from the imps climbing up her, trying to drag her back into the waves of demons before you.

(2/3)
>>
>>3935719
The moment you hesitate in your attack on the imps, there's more demons on you. Something long and altogether too sharp wraps around one of your arms, and you struggle to pull back on it. The tension is extreme, digging into your skin, threatening to spill more blood. You can't suppress the gasp that it draws from you, intermingling with building terror.

It seems like Celegwen is fading from sight as well.

Your eyes dart between her, and the source of the attack.

There's a succubus on the other end of the whip, having clearly clawed through the walls to get at you. No fewer than three minor demons are dead under her feet. Clad head-to-toe in spikes, with only the most indecent areas of her blackened and decayed body exposed, she hangs her tongue out at you as your eyes meet.

None of the demons around the scene seem to want to intervene on behalf of your attacker. They may be too terrified of the woman to get between you two- or they may simply want to watch the spectacle.

"Mercy."

>A) Risk shredding your arm open to pull away from the demon that's gotten a hold on you. Fight your way to Celegwen, no matter how badly you have to get hurt. You're more than willing to endure any measure of pain to protect her.
>1) Kill a demon and use it as a living shield. Idonea will have to find it in herself to forgive you.
>2) Stick to your guns. No one is getting killed here- not by you- if you can help it.

>B) Pull the succubus towards you. You can't afford to take the time to heal or to pray. Deal with this with your fists. Beat her to a pulp, and trust that the elf can protect herself.

>C) You might already be in too deep. Pray to Flesh, while there's still time to protect your friends. While you may not be anywhere near as weak as you usually are, His blessing will still amplify your abilities dramatically.

>D) Pray to Mercy for Her protection. These odds are so overwhelming, you can't imagine surviving if the demons make a serious effort to strike you down. It's already a miracle that they haven't. You need to protect yourself, and your friends.

>E) Write-in.
>>
>>3935721
>C) You might already be in too deep. Pray to Flesh, while there's still time to protect your friends. While you may not be anywhere near as weak as you usually are, His blessing will still amplify your abilities dramatically.
>>
>>3935721
>D) Pray to Mercy for Her protection. These odds are so overwhelming, you can't imagine surviving if the demons make a serious effort to strike you down. It's already a miracle that they haven't. You need to protect yourself, and your friends.

Show them
>Mercy
>>
>>3935721
Pick the demon We knocked out and use it as a sheild while We charge to save elf wife
>>
>>3935967
>>3935721
I'd second this, a happy marriage of A1 and A2
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>>3935952
>>3935953
>>3935967
>>3935988
Going to try and squeeze in an update before bed. Just in case I can't, please accept this extremely goofy party pic as a token of my appreciation for everyone's continued participation.

Since these are all completely at odds with each other, I'm going to go with the majority to blend A1 and A2. Writing now!
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>>3935990
>>3935990
HD edition
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>>3936012
This post next post is dedicated to you. The meme dream is alive and well, anon
>>
>>3936067
To take a succubus head-on is to face certain death. You're not the Father of Flesh.

You're the Father of Mercy, and you are here to show Her to these demons.

The whip around your arm is so taut that you can feel every rapid pulse of your heart. It matches the rhythm of the music and far surpasses each beat. Each blow from the demons behind you elicits something worse, something better, something altogether indecent. You're not frightened- you're elated, to know that to hesitate is to die. You know that the euphoria that these demons are pulling from you is something far worse than death, something you should not be sharing with anyone, anything, other than your Goddess. Yet you can't help but hope that this is a loophole.

Your breath is hitching, in anticipation and in devotion to the pain.

You don't even take in a proper breath, as you rip your arm free of its restraint.

The motion, swift and without any hesitation shreds the ornate fabric. Dozens of pieces of gold drop to the floor as your skin is laid bare. The black and gold gives way to so much red. The clatter of each button is entirely lost to your sin, the gasp of revulsion, the surge of delight that weaves through the searing agony of your flayed limb and raw nerves.

The succubi matches your outcry, daring to be bolder. She can't match your blasphemy, but she tries, drawing the whip to her gaping maw and dragging in every last drop of crimson.

It buys you a precious moment.

Not to regain your composure, but to make things infinitely worse.

Your senses are heightened to an impossible degree. Not even a prayer to Spirit has ever granted you so much clarity. Not over another, not over yourself, and never over the way that these demons are working themselves over you. The assault on your frame from all sides is unrelenting, as each surge of thriving, pulsing, celebrating heathens throws themselves against you, consuming the last of your friend from sight.

You tense your flayed arm, your ravaged hands, and dare to kneel down to sweep up the imp you bludgeoned. Your other makeshift weapon- its black diamonds and gold now slick with blood- goes into the other. From the moment you bend down, you're battered with more heat, more pain. The pandemonium seems to impossibly escalate. Several demons see fit to simply strike at you, as others grind against your form. They seem fixed on not knocking you over, but on prolonging your suffering.

The green in your eyes catches on the heat, the frenzy. You are not concerned with the mob, and you certainly are not concerned for yourself.

You focus everything you have on saving Celegwen.

With renewed energy, you grasp the imp as a shield of unwilling flesh and cleave into the wall of demons before you.

No amount of pain can stop you.

They're only encouraging me.

(1/3)
>>
>>3936069
Your cane makes contact with another imp, sinking deep into its softened shoulder, made of congealed worms and rot. The indentation seems to suck in the polished wood, and you rip the item out of its body, flinging blood and the smell of sickly sweet earth across multiple demons behind you.

They all scream in ecstasy, rushing forward, pushing you deeper into the crowd. You practically ride the force of the impact, throwing the side of your shoulder into your defense, pushing hard against the mass before you. Barbs from three minor demons graze your already exposed arm. They're so similar to the guards Ofelia killed outside of Ostedholm, you want to do a double-take. You can't stop moving, though. It's so good, you nearly lean into the sensation, pushing yourself harder, moving deeper in, wanting more.

A blow near side of your head nearly robs you of your elation. At the last moment, you bring up the imp's body, watching in abject horror as its skull is entirely crushed in by the force of a hand made of calcified flesh. You push onward, eating the force of another blow with the imp's destroyed form. Your eyes watch with no small measure of jealousy as its torso is skewered almost in two by a pair of horns.

The culprit is none other than three imps, all attempting to stop you at once. From behind, the congregation of sin thrives, pressing into you. You swing your cane down, cutting deep into the shoulder of another- and as you drag the weapon out, sticking fast to the imp, you slam the weapon into the torso of the other attacker. Each motion courses through your arms, your shoulders, your back, all ravaged with ecstasy and building momentum.

You dig deeper, letting yourself enjoy it, as you throw yourself again into the mob, using your battered and abused form, the corpse in your hands, the gemstones and gold to lay waste to the last barrier between you and your purchase.

The screams of the succubus fighting the wave beyond to get back to you is drowned out by something unearthly- even more disturbing than the pleasure that's been falling from your lips for so many minutes.

There's a deep murmuring, rising over the sound of the screams, the revelry, the gasps and endless grinding. Your steps are wet, slick with blood, your breath ragged from the unbearable elation as you press deeper, losing a great deal of will to stop all but the most lethal of the attacks directed at you. Your drive to protect your friend is unwavering, and you know you can't stop. You can't permit these sinners to work their blades and chains over you, to draw out more of their Mercy.

You stagger, entering a break in the crowd. There seems to be a broad gap in the mob. As you stare with absolute horror at the sight before you, you can't help but endure the abuse, permitting the demons on all sides of you to give you what you want while you look upon something you never wished to see.

(2/3)
>>
>>3936071
Celegwen is standing in the center of a glyph. The sorceress clearly has drawn the circle on the floor around her in her own blood. She's wielding her staff, eyes wider than you've ever seen, pointing her spell focus intently at the ground beneath her. Her breath is nearly as ragged as her clothes, torn haphazardly, leaving any questions you'd had left in the abyss now answered. The gash marks along her legs, her hips and her chest are fresh, and though you've never seen the elf with a single scar, you instantly recognize that the severity of her wounds is beyond her current skill. She's not screaming- she's muttering an incantation, endlessly, eyes glazed over in concentration and likely in horror.

>A) Call out to her, as best as you're able. Insist that she drop the spell, so you can escort her back to the end of the corridor. Ofelia is missing, and she's alone. You can make it back, together. Try to maintain your mission. Try to remember Mercy.
>1) Invoke Mercy, Herself, to shield you both.
>2) Invoke Flesh, to best use His strength to see you both to safety.

>B) Don't break her spell. Invoke Mercy, the Goddess of restraint, to halt the actions of the demons around you all. You have not exhibited Her tenets in recent days, and it may not be as effective as usual, but you can't care. You're willing to take the risk to ensure that Celegwen can be escorted away safely.

>C) All bets are off.
>1) Invoke Flesh to beat every last demon in your path, to death, if you must.
>2) Invoke Vengeance, to strike down every demon that's harmed your friend with the same suffering they've inflicted on Her.

>D) Don't say anything. Enter the glyph, and take hold of your friend. Tell her that she'll be okay. Shield her as best as you're able, without the Gods- with only your own body. Show them all Mercy, by sacrificing yourself further. You won't stop now. Not when you want this.

>E) Write-in.
>>
>>3936076
>B) Don't break her spell. Invoke Mercy, the Goddess of restraint, to halt the actions of the demons around you all. You have not exhibited Her tenets in recent days, and it may not be as effective as usual, but you can't care. You're willing to take the risk to ensure that Celegwen can be escorted away safely.
>>
>>3936076
>B) Don't break her spell. Invoke Mercy, the Goddess of restraint, to halt the actions of the demons around you all. You have not exhibited Her tenets in recent days, and it may not be as effective as usual, but you can't care. You're willing to take the risk to ensure that Celegwen can be escorted away safely.
If Mercy grants us light, it may be enough to make these demons stay their hands, at the very least long enough to search for Ofelia.
If She doesn't, we may very well be doomed.

The concern after all this is how we get to Remigius; regardless of what happens, the slew of demons isn't going to make things easy.
>>
>>3936076
>>B) Don't break her spell. Invoke Mercy, the Goddess of restraint, to halt the actions of the demons around you all. You have not exhibited Her tenets in recent days, and it may not be as effective as usual, but you can't care. You're willing to take the risk to ensure that Celegwen can be escorted away safely.

I'd chose D but I fear that may mess up and not be her plan, if she wanted us to join her she probably , hopefully would have said something.
>>
>>3936086
If I'm reading it right, D seems like a trap option; Richard is enjoying his pain and misery, thus accepting more from the demons would qualify as accepting a demon's gifts, therefore further sinning and widening the gap between us and the Gods. I don't believe the Mercy of sparing our fair Celegwen the pain would do enough to counteract the blasphemy.
>>
>>3936096
yeah I got a similar read, hence my vote lel
>>
>>3936076
>>B) Don't break her spell. Invoke Mercy, the Goddess of restraint, to halt the actions of the demons around you all. You have not exhibited Her tenets in recent days, and it may not be as effective as usual, but you can't care. You're willing to take the risk to ensure that Celegwen can be escorted away safely.
>>
>>3936076
>B) Don't break her spell. Invoke Mercy, the Goddess of restraint, to halt the actions of the demons around you all. You have not exhibited Her tenets in recent days, and it may not be as effective as usual, but you can't care. You're willing to take the risk to ensure that Celegwen can be escorted away safely.
>>
>>3936082
>>3936085
>>3936086
>>3936096
>>3936108
>>3936245
>>3936338
Wow, totally unanimous. Alright. Locking the vote here, writing now! (Next update will be when I'm back from work much later this evening).
>>
>>3936390
It's getting increasingly harder to think, to breathe, to stay on your feet. The abuse being laid into you from all sides, the motion, the pulsing agony and unbearable relief is so overwhelming that only one thought dominates your mind. The one thing that will keep you grounded. The one thing that might not destroy Celegwen's desperate bid to protect herself. The one thing that could possibly save you from blaspheming further.

It's not a prayer that quite escapes you. Your chest is tight, your ravaged skin slick with blood. The invocation is tainted, marred by your lack of restraint and something that has discolored your pain for days.

"M-Mercy-!"

Over the throbbing music, the screams of the demons around you get perceptibly louder. They know what your game is, and they seem to want to play.

The soft gold, the light and the caress of the Goddess takes you in an instant. It has only been a few days since you were last with Her, overwhelmed and utterly taken by Her. The connection is nowhere near as intense, but you feel Her in an instant.

I missed you, too.

You look to Celegwen, to the tendrils of blood creeping out from the glyph around her. She seems to be intensifying its strength, no doubt in an immediate response to the chaos breaking out to such heights around you all that you do immediately fear for both of your lives. The imps on the outskirts of your vision take it upon themselves to test you, to gauge just how much your protection is worth, as they begin to throw bottles, glasses, and several small items clearly meant only for fornication.

Your prayer is feverish, your words clipped, your breath hitching from the constant assault around you as you beg the Goddess for Her aid. Though She is always with you, you want to speak the words aloud. You want Celegwen to know that We are here for you.

"My res-straint is my peace, but my peace has- aaaaahn, been broken-!"

It's slow, far slower than usual, but the myriad wounds along your arms, hands, back, shoulders- everything begins to slowly mend.

You tighten your resolve, inching towards Celegwen, actively stepping away from, dodging and blocking the incoming volley from the demons beyond. Your movement bears no ill-will, nothing more than the desire to protect. It's impossible to deflect every attack being directed at you, as the demons are kicked up into a frenzy.

The blows that do make contact feel utterly unreal. The pain borders on the divine. Flecks of gold burst into your vision in euphoria and agony as the Goddess blesses you, driving away the urge to linger, incentivizing you to stay on your feet, to defend, to show Your tenets to them.

"M-Merciful Goddess! Our- nnnn- compassion- is Our shield! Our- aaaahn!

(1/3)
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>>3936436
A demon directly behind you attempts to lance one of your shoulders completely with a spiked paddle of some sort. Its grip had to have come loose during the strike- a small Mercy- and the attack only clips off enough skin to cut your prayer slightly short. It does not feel tainted. Your prayer, and your connection to Her is not undone. You know, unmistakably, that Her forgiveness is endless.

You reach out, fearlessly, towards the demon that's attempting to strike you again. Its body is made entirely of protruding bone that's been sharpened to points. You drop the shield, the cane, leaving your hands bare to express Her gifts. You touch the demon. You feel compelled to touch it, to reach out, to let more than your souls contact.

"Our grace is- immaculate! The congregation w-within Our heart reaches out to you, to the- aaahn, to the sinner- to the damned, to grant you our generosity-! Our hands are open- nnn! To you-!"

The pain lancing your hands from contacting the creature is unbearably good. It falls to its knees, incapable of withstanding your entire focus, and a light emanating from within its eyes begins to glow. It starkly contrasts the darkness and blood of the corridor, and catches on the eyes of countless demons around you.

"Be M-Merciful-!"

Several instantly step back. You hear the sounds of screaming over the music, of several imps departing, making way for something worse yet.

You would be relieved, yet you seem to have only garnered more attention from the heavier hitters in the crowd.

The mob shifts. A great number of the stalks of eyes from the back of the corridor begin to file towards you, as you methodically subdue a perimeter of lesser and minor demons around Celegwen. There's no doubt that you can take on as many of these individuals at a time like this. It's regrettable that there's so many more still coming.

The elf's strength looks like it's holding. It's a good thing. There's a steady pile of bodies mounting around you, as you work Mercy over the demons in the crowd. They crumble to your feet, one after another, utterly unable to withstand the might of Your connection to the Goddess.

They are not weak. They simply know nothing of Mercy. They will be forgiven- and thanked for the blessings they have given me in turn.

A part of you is aware that it's growing harder to articulate or think of anything beyond the crushing, beautiful relief and the sensations that the Goddess is pulling from you. A swift punch to your side nearly knocks you off your feet, bringing you back into the moment, bringing you so much blossoming relief.

"Mercy-!

(2/3)
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>>3936440
The corridor seems substantially less congested, as the demons lower in the hierarchy physically give way to the major and greater demons that have been lurking beyond. The succubus seems engaged with the demon made of leather just further down the way, the two tangling with one another on the ground, both equally matched in depravity and literal restraints.

You whip your head back around, seeing a demon made entirely of eyes glaring deeply into your frame. You want to seize up on instinct, to glance away, to avoid the contact at all costs. It's paralyzing in its intensity. You feel the scrutiny, the stalks that have been gazing at you so firmly throughout this ordeal, seeing every gasp, every moan, every disgraced blessing from the Goddess.

It's now standing between you and Celegwen. Its legs are merely further stalks of eyes, the red tendrils creeping onto the floor, the exposed irises of every color trailing along the floor, looking you up and down, judging you terribly.

There are more demons of its caliber encroaching on the new space that's formed around you both by the second. It looks to be far easier to pick a path through the crowd, as many of the weaker demons seem to be giving you space- but you can't help but worry for your life.

It reminds you of a line. It's almost as if a queue is forming, of demons as powerful as the one that struck down Father Edmund, all waiting to lay into you. Demons comprised of nothing but dripping acid, a monster that looks to be a gathering of wasps all stuck together, countless nightmares reminiscent of insects and beasts, and more that you still cannot see on the edges of the corridor still.

The demon before you is still staring. It has yet to attack again. You don't know if it's trying to waste your time and wear out Celegwen, if it's planning an attack, or if it's merely afraid to get near you again.

Even the few seconds of reprieve isn't enough to get your composure back- your breath is so heavy, your skin flushed and damp. The exposed and hidden wounds lancing your frame work themselves over with Mercy's healing, so much slower than usual that you doubt you'll make a full recovery before you have to release Her again. You're strained, strained to contain the Goddess, to stay with Her through the building tension, the agony of needing more.

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3936444
>A) Hold the line awhile longer. Give Celegwen time release the glyph once she sees that there's room to run. Try to take on the demon of eyes, and show it Mercy. Run with your friend back to the tear in the wall the moment you have the chance. No one is touching her again. Not if you can help it.

>B) Call out to Celegwen, as best as you're able, to drop the glyph now that there's enough space to make a break for it. Try not to fight if you can help it. Implore her to come with you, and subdue as many demons as you can as you run.
>1) Don't fight. Shield her with yourself and your prayer as best as you can. You still have a mission, no matter how badly you've butchered the situation thus far.
>2) Trust that the Goddess will understand the direness of your situation, and strike down anyone you can't subdue entirely.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3936447
>B2
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>>3936453
wait crap, meant to vote >B1
>>
>>3936447
>>B) Call out to Celegwen, as best as you're able, to drop the glyph now that there's enough space to make a break for it. Try not to fight if you can help it. Implore her to come with you, and subdue as many demons as you can as you run.
>1) Don't fight. Shield her with yourself and your prayer as best as you can. You still have a mission, no matter how badly you've butchered the situation thus far.
>>
>>3936447
>C) Write-in.
Try to shout over the crowd in our best sermon voice.
"I seek only Remigus! I won't offer you what you seek, i will only offer you our Mercy!"
>>
>>3936447
>A
>>
>>3936447
>B1
>>
>>3936458
>>3936502
>>3937049
>>3936515
>>3936754
3 for B1, 1 write-in, and 1 for A. Going to incorporate the majority of this, can't really do A on top of all that but I'll get the rest.

Thanks for your patience guys, was a really long day and totally made it to come home to all the votes and stuff. Writing now!
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>>3937356
There's a brief lull in the music, as the tempo changes and the vocalist fades. Your own words carry over the throbbing beat, as you try to duck away from three demons grasping at you, to hold you down, to render you defenseless in the single moment of hesitation.

"Celegwen! We're here- you have to run! Come with-!"

Your words are cut short. You're forced to stop your speech. You need not speak to channel the Goddess, to lay your hands on the demons on and around you, but you need your full concentration.

https://youtu.be/4Q9NN4dNA_Y?t=5

Though you're being torn at, nearly carried along the wave of demons, you break out, your mind wholly focused on the task at hand, your body more than willing to cooperate. You lean into their attacks, drawing out their ire, waiting for the perfect moment to break away and strike back. A single hand to their skull courses the gold and light through their minds, their soul, dropping them to their knees.

Your captors crumple to the floor, adding to the testament of restraint. No fewer than two dozen demons are now subdued, but so many more are coming. You cry out again to Celegwen, screaming over the music, unafraid of the pain that's sure to follow.

We welcome it.

"Do you trust Us?!"

Purple, black and silver come into startling clarity. The elf's eyes refocus, as your words finally get through to her. Agony intermingles with so much shock that you can scarcely recognize her. You try to keep your gaze off of her form, off of her shame, off of the woman who's promised herself to you, but there's something working through you, something that has you wanting to do so much more than to merely throw your arms around her in protection.

You rush forward, straight at the demon of eyes before you.

You will not permit it to get between you and who you've sworn to protect.

Your hands surge with heat and the blessing of the Gods. Mercy pours from you, from the pain, from every cut, every scar, every tear. You attempt to lay your hands on the creature, to show it your Flesh, your Spirit- your Mercy.

The hundreds of eyes and their crimson stalks part like a curtain. You nearly stumble forward, and are pulled back once again by a number of demons who all attempt to pin you down, to lay into you, on you. With a cry, you rip yourself away again, pouring all of your restraint and devotion into staying your hands.

You clasp them together.

A number of demons with their hands on your form catch on your raw skin. Two pull their claws back, screeching in agony, as blood and gold is left trailing on their cursed skin. You look up to them, with gold in your eyes, and shout to them all.

"Your bondage runs deeper than anything We could lay our eyes upon!"

With a swift motion, you sweep an arm across the imps that had run out of the crowd, knocking them back with the sheer force of your devotion.

(1/3)
>>
>>3937529

"We seek nothing you can offer to Us!"

The demon of eyes leers at you, snaking towards you with freakish speed as it seems to blink into the area around your body, enclosing itself over you entirely. It can sense your fervor, your ecstasy. You know it is afraid.

Your words are sound, full of righteous indignation and utterly taken with the Goddess, with the will to protect, to serve, and to love. You know what these demons are so afraid of.

"We seek none other than your master: Remigius!"

With a blast of radiance, you sear through the demon encasing you, parting its form willingly. The creature backs up, every eye blinded from its intensity.

No demon can forget the orders of those it is beholden to.

You rush forward, tearing off your jacket, throwing it over Celegwen with one hand as you blast back another wave of demons with the other.

The light and heat coming off of your form is intensifying by the second. You pay it no mind. Your friend needs you.

To your enormous relief, the elf grits her teeth, silently holding the article of clothing over her shoulders and turning with you to run.

Your shouts carry over the music, over the screams, over the deafening roar of the demons behind you that see you both making an eager getaway. You keep as close to Celegwen as you're able, wrapping an arm around her, trying to shield her from the countless blows raining down on you both.

The demon comprised entirely of acid slinks with impossible speed along the walls. The sweat on you redoubles as you start to feel an entirely new kind of burn. The acid drips and sears onto your back, working its way over old scar tissue and surely making so much more. You can't suppress the scream it elicits, enduring and loving the nightmarish release.

There's no time to enjoy it. You have to direct all of your focus onto the major demon who's hellbent on lancing Celegwen with a spear made of flesh. The elf swings up her staff, an explosion of starlight and space resonating forth. You channel the Goddess around and onto the edges of the spell, coaxing a further defense, amplifying the radius tenfold.

Your combined might blasts the demon back with so much force that it tears through the wooden wall beyond.

The fractured pieces of your surroundings are thrown back in an instant. Celegwen screams in absolute terror as the wood is clearly not being thrown back, but were being carried by packs of wasps from within the shrapnel. An explosion of wood, wings and stingers threaten her face and her delicate arms as they're thrown up with another display of defense, and dissipation. You cry out over her spell, feeling something deep in the back of your mind soften, something giving way that you don't want to stop.

You would rather subdue these creatures, even on the brink of death, even after everything they've done, than to see your friend try to protect herself.

(2/3)
>>
>>3937530
Your words are not entirely sane, but your conviction is absolute.

"We will only offer you Our Mercy!"

There's a colossal flare of light. Celegwen screams again, throwing her hands to her eyes. The entire corridor is flooded, momentarily, with heat and gold.

There's the sound of demons scattering, of restraint, of peace, and of throbbing music coming from the other side of the wall ahead.

The light abates, and the wasps are dead at your feet, crushed underfoot as you nearly have to drag Celegwen to keep running. Many of the weaker demons around you are entirely subdued, their minds lost, completely taken with Mercy. You do not know how long the blessing will last, but it's enough time for you to pick up your speed and to contend with the last of the foes standing between you and getting out of the nightmare you've made.

The succubus is laying, legs spread, over the demon made of leather. She's using her attacker like a piece of furniture, and leers at you. You hear the last few major demons behind you all, closing in with no hesitation.

You almost think that the succubus is solely targeting you- that she's more interested in how much you've been enjoying yourself, the sin, the unwanted assault, the need to endure.

You tense, ready to strike, to subdue. You push ahead, to reach the end of the hall, to enter the tear, to find Ofelia, to get Celegwen to safety.

The succubus leers at you both, grinning, her mouth hanging open impossibly wide as her tongue drags and draws along her lips. You almost expect her to curse you, to utter something so deprived that you will have to deafen yourself to ever seek the favor of the Goddess again.

Instead, she cackles, "I'd love to keep warming you up for the master, but Daddy- your little friend has been having all the fun!"

The sweat over your body goes cold in an instant. You hear Celegwen's breath catch in her throat. The succubus continues. "I can't keep you all to myself, as much fun as you and your bitches are~"

This was just another stall tactic.

"What have you done with Ofelia?!"

"Go see for yourself! You'd better hurry- the boys have a different way they want to play with you!"

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3937536
>A) This must be a trick. The succubus has to be plotting something. Don't move ahead. Stay, and fight. Make sure she isn't a threat before you proceed.
>1) Signal Celegwen to dissipate the center of the demon's form again while you work Mercy around the blast. It annihilated a major demon in an instant. If she still has the strength to do so, it might be your best bet.
>2) Let Celegwen save her strength. Focus entirely on subduing the succubus. It will likely take everything you have to exercise restraint in a demon that has anything but- and that's a risk you're willing to take.

>B) There's simply no time to linger. There are so many demons still behind you, and you have no idea what could have happened to Ofelia. Trust the succubus to not kill you both instantly. Charge forward, and enter the tear, come what may.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3937536
>B) There's simply no time to linger. There are so many demons still behind you, and you have no idea what could have happened to Ofelia. Trust the succubus to not kill you both instantly. Charge forward, and enter the tear, come what may.
>>
>>3937541
>>B) There's simply no time to linger. There are so many demons still behind you, and you have no idea what could have happened to Ofelia. Trust the succubus to not kill you both instantly. Charge forward, and enter the tear, come what may.
>>
>>3937541
>B) There's simply no time to linger. There are so many demons still behind you, and you have no idea what could have happened to Ofelia. Trust the succubus to not kill you both instantly. Charge forward, and enter the tear, come what may.
>>
>>3937541
>>B) There's simply no time to linger. There are so many demons still behind you, and you have no idea what could have happened to Ofelia. Trust the succubus to not kill you both instantly. Charge forward, and enter the tear, come what may.
>>
>>3937648
>>3937684
>>3937735
>>3937901
Alright lads, time for one update before work! Writing now.
>>
>>3937906
There isn't a second to spare. Every nightmarish scenario that could possibly befall your friend hits you, harder than any of the blows that have befallen you this evening. You keep your hold on Celegwen, putting yourself in between her and the succubus, and charge forward.

"We'll find her, Celegwen. Come what may!"

There is no fear for yourself, as the demon laughs hideously, cracking her whip- you tense, hands to your friend, to your holy symbol, to the Goddess.

You stiffen, almost wanting to turn on your heel to kill the demon on sight. She merely swings her hand around to slap your backside. You do at least turn your head around, seeing the succubus licking the same hand, winking at you, and waving you to leave as the horde of major and greater demons close in behind you. You try to remember Yourself, Your tenets.

Restraint. Peace. Compassion. Mercy.

You don't even acknowledge the assault, praying that Celegwen hadn't noticed. You have far more pressing concerns right now.

You realize that you're both too large to enter the tear in the wall together.

Celegwen hesitates. It nearly costs you both dearly, but you shield her with your back, taking the brunt of a club that's swung down hard on you both. Biting your lip to muffle the sound that is begging to escape from the intense relief, you try to collect yourself, to reassure her. It's too hard to speak.

"Nnnn-! Go! We'll b-be right behind you!"

She still hesitates, but, gingerly, she steps inside. There's no shout, no signs of distress.

Only crimson and darkness.

You don't hesitate, and squeeze into the opening before you.

The darkness is absolute for only a moment.

You look up, to see a demon three times as wide as you are, in a room so small and narrow that he seems to occupy almost the entire box. The creature is adorned in a fitted black fabric, a small bow fitted around its colossal neck. His arms are crossed, looking down at Celegwen with extreme distaste, before his bright red eyes and yellow pupils fall on you.

The demon smiles broadly.

"If it isn't our guest! Ho ho, aren't you a trouble maker? Good thing you knew when to quit. You're right on time. Step on in, step on in! The show is about to begin!"

You're so taken aback, you don't know how to answer. Celegwen finds her voice. Her panic does not escape you, her breath still short, her relief at you providing her with your jacket obviously immense.

"Did a small woman enter here?! Blue cloak and attire, tall hat-"

The enormous demon smiles again. "Right inside, right inside. Better hurry."

There's a wave of the demon's arm. The room, impossibly, seems to stretch. There's a familiar clicking sound, a small musical number, and a black door that appears instantaneously before you and Celegwen.

(1/2)
>>
>>3937948
There's also a small sign, on a black metal stand, and a little red light hanging over the door. Your eyes only catch on the sign for a moment as you and Celegwen rush forward.

It reads, "Enjoy the show."

You burst into the room, hand to your holy symbol. Celegwen has her staff at the ready, eyes wide.

You almost drop your hands in disbelief. The elf lowers her weapon, as well.

There is an ornately decorated, very dark room before you. The opening in the wall behind you is entirely out of sight. A dozen or so tables, adorned with a single candle, bottles of champagne, cigars, and the various other beverages of a multitude of demons are spread out. Every demon in the room is major, a succubus, an incubus, or something that you cannot classify. You catch a glimpse of one in the corner of the room, hidden behind one of the many shrouds, leering out of the darkness immediately at Celegwen's exposed legs and her attempts to cover herself better with your jacket. Its sunken eyes take in the little light emanating from you, from Mercy. You're like a beacon, as the main source of light in the room is clearly intended to come from the stage at the opposite end of the lounge. You can't help but notice that, for the first time since you've entered this domain, every eye isn't on you.

There's a demon on stage, similar to a dress mannequin, that is in the process of playing a strange instrument while setting itself on fire. A number of the demons in the audience are entirely captivated by the process, extinguishing a fair number of smoking drinks that make you instantly think back to Yech and his first realization of your prowess with Vengeance. You want to invoke Him, instantly, as your eyes finally fall on your intended target.

Ofelia is lounging in a small chair, clearly provided to better suit her size. She's wearing a new hat- this one has a round brim and a rather large top, black and adorned with a blue ribbon. She's smoking a cigar, surrounded by champagne, her feet kicked up on the table in a very unladylike manner. She seems entirely unharmed and to be enjoying herself immensely, talking at some length with a demon sitting across from her. It's an imp, around her size. The creature is dressed in servant's attire, though far finer than anything you've ever laid eyes on, and in the same strange fashion you're growing accustomed to seeing.

Celegwen doesn't make any motion to sit down. She's trembling, obviously also still extremely on edge. You clench your fist around your holy symbol, entirely uncertain of how to handle this.

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3937951
>A) Dismiss Mercy. You feel like an idiot. This entire fiasco could have easily been avoided. Sit down, have a drink, and try to sort your head out. Ask Ofelia if she's alright- even though she obviously is- and figure out what you're doing.

>B) Stay on guard.
>1) Continue to channel Mercy. It's terribly abusive to maintain your connection to Her for a second longer than you need to, but you're so wired from everything that's happened, you can't let Her go just yet. You need to stay alert.
>2) Release Mercy, but don't let anyone near you or your friends if you can help it. No matter what's going on here, you are surrounded by demons, and more might be coming. You don't trust the demon at the door to stave off everyone.

>C) Fuck this. This might be an illusion. Celegwen was violated and you both were nearly killed.
>1) Demand to see Remigius. Make a scene if you have to. This will not stand.
>2) You're not even sure this could be Ofelia. Start questioning her. Make sure that your friend is actually here and safe.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3937954
>C2
>>
>>3937954
>>C) Fuck this. This might be an illusion. Celegwen was violated and you both were nearly killed.
>>C2) You're not even sure this could be Ofelia. Start questioning her. Make sure that your friend is actually here and safe.
>>
>>3937955
>>3937958
Going to work in a minute, next update will be much later tonight unfortunately. Forgot to mention, feel free to write-in any specific questions you might want to target!
>>
>>3937954
>A) Dismiss Mercy. You feel like an idiot. This entire fiasco could have easily been avoided. Sit down, have a drink, and try to sort your head out. Ask Ofelia if she's alright- even though she obviously is- and figure out what you're doing.

>write in: ask ofelia about what happened after we got separated.
>>
>>3937955
>>3937958
>>3938008
Finally home from work, time to write! I can actually incorporate all of these perfectly. Vote is locked.
>>
>>3938848
You don't know what to think or feel. You know that your nerves are still on end, the residual pleasure spiking through every twitch in your back, arms and legs from the extended abuse. You know that you're furious, the thought of someone possibly taking Ofelia sending your pulse skyrocketing.

Slick with sweat and blood, gold coursing through your veins, you stalk over to Ofelia's table and resist the urge to flip it over. Celegwen follows right behind you, her eyes darting to the incubus in the corner that won't take his eyes off of her. She's obviously terrified, and sticks as close as she can.

The halfling nearly falls backwards as you approach. There's a few murmurs from the tables around you as she stands up, her ridiculous hat falling to the floor, the cigar pulled out of her mouth.

"What happened to you-?!"

She looks terrified. She takes a step back, and you see her hand hesitating- almost as if she wants to pull out a dagger. You stop her with the sheer intensity of your voice.

"We're the one asking questions."

The halfling doesn't hesitate, moving to attack. You take only one step closer, hand to your holy symbol, every inch of your ravaged body bristling- and you grab onto her hand, catching her wrist. Your voice lowers, the threat of what's to come if she doesn't answer perfectly evident in each radiant syllable.

"What is your family's crest?"

She pulls, hard, against your wrist. You tighten your grasp, your hand so much larger than her form that you know you could crush her in seconds. She lets out a small whimper, hesitating before answering.

"...a white oak tree. We stamp it with a 'B'. Richard- it's me. I don't know what's goin' on but you need to calm down! I'm not gonna hurt you or Gwen-!"

You lean forward, your shadow absolutely eclipsing the halfling. You don't pay any heed to the demons around you standing, complaining about you interrupting the show. You keep your hand firm against her grasp, tightening it, the gold in your eyes warning her not to dare to reach for another blade.

"How many brothers and sisters do you have?"

"Richard, please, sit down- there's nothin' wrong here-"

"Answer Us-!"

"Twelve-! For fuck's sake- I have eight fuckin' brothers, and 4 sisters, please- stop- you're hurtin' me-"

Celegwen looks to you with no small measure of concern, raising a hand as you take another step forward, putting a hand to the side of the chair next to Ofelia. You practically pin her small body between the backing and your own frame. You've never realized just how utterly you eclipse her. You look down, avoiding the gaze of the major demons and succubus behind you, who have risen from their seats as if to protect your friend.

(1/4)
>>
>>3939071
Your anger becomes a crushing whisper. It's not so much that you wish for no one else can hear you. It's the thought of someone having taken this information by force from your friend that's driving you mad.

Your eyes are aflame with Mercy, your senses fried from the prolonged pain, the prayer, the ecstasy, the threat, the fear. You search your memory, clawing at anything that a demon couldn't possibly have extracted in a confession.

It strikes you- the only time you ever attempted to really talk to your friend alone. Something you were told in solitude. Something so wholesome that a demon could never want for it.

"How much whiskey does Ofelia use in her honeycake recipe?"

She pauses.

The halfling looks up to you, her face white, all traces of intoxication gone as she clearly fears for her life.

"Th-that's a trick question. I mean- I use brandy, Richard. You- you know that, right? Ow- please let go, Richard. ...stop, okay?"

The nightmarish realization of how hard you're gripping onto the halfling's wrist hits you with more pain than anything a demon has inflicted on you tonight. You take a horrified step backwards as she keeps talking.

"It's only a splash, right? P-please sit down, Richard. ...you're scarin' me."

You do. You slump into a chair next to her, hands to your head, releasing Mercy in an instant.

The Goddess is eager to leave you.

The chair is a different kind of blessing, as exhaustion wracks your frame with such intensity that you no doubt would have collapsed otherwise.

There's a murmuring and shuffling behind you as the various demons that had stood to intervene in your outburst go back to their respective seats. There's another, softer noise, as Celegwen obviously sits down across from you as well.

You feel terribly empty.

You swipe a glass off of the table, likely champagne, and immediately try to fill the void.

It is champagne. Nowhere near as nice as anything Yech had made for you, and far weaker, but it serves its purpose. It's obviously meant for pleasure, not to get one drunk, and you finish the entire thing in a single motion.

The urge to go back into the corridor and to meet a certain death is intense. The heat, the radiance, the divinity is entirely absent. You feel a new kind of whiplash as the fear and timidness creeps straight back into your voice, the angst wrapping itself around you as your sweat starts to dry. "...what's wrong with me? What am I even doing- are you alright, Ofelia? I'm- I'm so sorry. I'm sorry."

You dare to look up, to set your glass down, to look at your friend.

She's still standing, rubbing at her wrist. The hurt on her face is evident, but it's laced with concern. "I've had a few guys rough me up worse, but you'd better fuckin' explain what you were thinkin'- what fuckin' right- this wasn't some bullshit with your Goddess, was it? Mind-readin' is scary enough, Richard, but I'm not gonna fuckin' stand for this."

(2/4)
>>
>>3939075
Celegwen is eerily silent. She's simply looking, terrified, at the incubus in the corner. You have no idea how to console her and address your growing agony simultaneously. Looking back to Ofelia, you shake your head. It doesn't escape your notice, even in the dim lighting, that a few flecks of blood come off of your hair and neck. "No. Nothing like that. I- I had to invoke Mercy. We were attacked the moment you left-"

"No shit! After that stunt you pulled-?!"

There's a series of shushes and whispers from the demons sitting around you all, gesturing for Ofelia to sit down and stay quiet. To your shock, she instantly obliges them. The demon's music on stage nearly carries over her voice as she whispers, "we're fuckin' surrounded, Richard. It's suicide to piss this many monsters off. What were you thinkin'?!"

"I could never-"

"You can drink and eat with a demon, tell 'em yer life story, gamble and sleep under their roof- and you won't even fuckin' swear?! What happened to you two?! What happened to Gwen-"

Ofelia's eyes go wide as she seems to get a proper look at your silent companion. The rogue instantly gets up, knocking her drink to the floor, and sits in the same chair as her friend.

She rips off a long length of the bottom of her gown to fasten around the elf's hips and chest. The halfling makes no attempt to look at you, nor does she say anything you can hear. She's whispering to her, under the music.

You can't stand the secrecy, and speak up as she drops her voice beyond a perceptible range.

"There's nothing you can say to her that I wouldn't want to hear, Ofelia."

The halfling whips her head around, her fear and concern now lanced with anger. She practically spits, under her breath, "keep yer fuckin' voice down before you get us all killed. Everythin' was fine. I was tellin' her that she's gonna fuckin' be fine, Richard. ...I don't need you to tell me what happened. We can talk about it if we get out of here. How many are comin'?"

You swallow, hard, longing for something less bitter than the truth. You settle for more champagne, emptying another glass before murmuring, "all of them. ...the ones that weren't killed. I subdued at least 20, though it's impossible to say for how long."

Ofelia looks to you with absolute horror, and slumps back into her chair.

"Oh, great. That's great. We're going to die. Here I was, havin' a few drinks and a nice smoke, and we're all goin' to-"

Her eyes keep darting from you to the space that the door used to occupy.

There's a long pause as she obviously realizes something. Her eyes could not be wider.

She gestures for you to lean in, not even bothering with Celegwen. There's polite applause from the demons around you, as the mannequin on stage finishes her performance. The entire room goes dark as the curtain closes, no light emanating even from your form.

You do lean in, setting down your glass, dread creeping along your burned and lacerated spine.

(3/4)
>>
>>3939080
Despite your request, Ofelia whispers, "They've locked us in."

Your eyes dart to the wall as well. There's absolutely nothing there. There's no light, there's nothing.

Dread keeps you seated as a blaring voice cuts through the silence and darkness around you all. It's the same voice that announced you in the corridor.

"AND NOW, INCUBI AND SUCCUBI, MAJOR DEMONS AND HEATHENS OF ALL RACES- WITHOUT FURTHER ADO: THE MOMENT YOU ALL HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR!"

The dread is slowly giving way to panic.

"PLEASE PUT YOUR HANDS TOGETHER FOR THE LORD OF LEWDNESS, THE KING OF KINKINESS, THE SIRE OF SALACIOUSNESS-!"

Ofelia grabs you by the shirt, pulling you in, her fear visible even in the near complete darkness.

"Don't get us killed, Richard. I don't care what you need to do. We're gettin' out of here alive."

"YOUR HUMBLE HOST!"

You're grateful that it's too dark for Ofelia to see your terror. You can't make that promise.

"REMIGIUS!!!"

The thunderous applause around you all is the only thing that punctuates the darkness.

>A) Sit back and try not to make a noose with the tablecloth. Enjoying the show might be outside of your scope right now, but the least you can do is to keep quiet and see what this demon has in store for you all.
>1) You're so exhausted from your prayer to Mercy, you can't fathom doing much more than resting right now. Try to gather your strength, in case you might need it again so soon.
>2) Whisper an apology to Ofelia, again, and try to make sure Celegwen is alright. Reassure them both, if you can. You don't need Spirit to realize how terrified they must be of the situation- and of you. You can deal with demons. You can't deal with more people being afraid of you.

>B) There is no rest for the wicked.
>1) Pray to Spirit to see if any demons are entering the room, while sitting and appearing calm. An entrance can also be an exit.
>2) Get up and manually search for an escape. The demons here have to be entering somehow. Stealth isn't exactly your forte, but it's very dark- maybe if you move quickly, you can sneak around the stage.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3939081
>>B) There is no rest for the wicked.
>>1) Pray to Spirit to see if any demons are entering the room, while sitting and appearing calm. An entrance can also be an exit.
>>
>>3939081
>>A) Sit back and try not to make a noose with the tablecloth. Enjoying the show might be outside of your scope right now, but the least you can do is to keep quiet and see what this demon has in store for you all.

>>2) Whisper an apology to Ofelia, again, and try to make sure Celegwen is alright. Reassure them both, if you can. You don't need Spirit to realize how terrified they must be of the situation- and of you. You can deal with demons. You can't deal with more people being afraid of you.

Keep it brief though don't want to interrupt the show, as little as we want to see.
>>
>>3939305
seconding
>>
>>3939274
>>3939305
>>3939601
Locking the vote while we've got a tie breaker! Writing now.
>>
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>>3939643
As the applause around you all continues, you lean in to your friends. You gesture, at least, to Celegwen- who's so on edge she jumps from the motion. The elf does oblige your request, though, getting almost too close to you for comfort.

Your voice is a whisper, hoping that it isn't perceptible to anyone other than the two women next to you. "I'm so sorry. I never meant to jeopardize anyone's safety."

Though your pulse is still racing, the blood on your back sticky, the sweat on you still hot and unwilling to dry, your expression softens. "...I'll get us all out of here. No matter what it takes- I won't make matters any worse. Not if I can help it. You both don't deserve this."

Celegwen is absolutely silent, but her shoulders relax very, very slightly. She swipes a glass of champagne off of the table and starts to sip on it as Ofelia puts a hand to her knee. The halfling looks up to you, grimacing, and at least acknowledging your apology.

"Good," she murmurs, raising her eyes. The applause has completely stopped. There's a light coming again from the stage.

You whip your head around, eyes wide.

"Mercy."

https://youtu.be/Z_UOmAed5O8

The stage is scarcely lit by a small number of red candles. Before a simple black backdrop is a pale tree, adorned with gold leaves. There is no fanfare, no spectacle, no trappings- beyond an elegant and entirely familiar shape moving across the stage.

Pale skin, paler than the white oak, shawled in a sheet made of shadow moves with such deliberation that you're utterly transfixed by the movement. It's no spell. The demon could easily be mistaken for a monster at the peak of the hierarchy as it absolutely resonates with power- but you're instantly aware that this is an incubus. Not simply an incubus, but one of more skill than any you've ever heard of. The sweat is back on you, as you keep hold of your holy symbol, waiting for it to strike out.

His pale skin drifts along the stage instead. Vague notions of different forms, different builds, different flesh take place along his slender frame. It's as if his body is made of a liquid and a metal all at once. As he slowly moves across the stage, you see that the shawl draped across his face reaches behind him. His slow steps, tracing across the floor, his skin flowing along the wooden floor permits the fabric behind him to drape across nearly the entire stage.

Its shadows come to life.

There's a play taking place within the darkness. Within the folds of fabric and creeping black, there's love, and life, and laughter. It's a celebration of frivolity, of revelry, of light, of embrace, and everything that it is to create a human.

To create a demon.

It sinks, deep into the ground, creeping along the walls, the floor, the ceiling. The applause stopped the moment that Remigius revealed himself, and you long for something to punctuate the absolute silence.

(1/2)
>>
>>3939662
The demon, almost as if on queue, turns slowly on his heel, and drives his foot down onto the floor.

The shadows erupt into a scene so explicit that you nearly close your eyes- all chance of potentially enjoying the scene rapidly dissipating. The shadows break out into silent screams, tearing one another to pieces. The demons around you do not applaud, remaining utterly silent and transfixed by what you can only assume they find to be beautiful.

The demon's back is turned, scales of gold catching on the light. The flame and candles beneath the fabric surge, wax crawling upwards impossibly into spikes as the heat reaches up to lick at the scene before you all.

The flame climbs only for a moment. There's no threat of it spreading to the audience, though you sense many of the demons among you long for it.

Their disappointment is short lived, as the fire licks and climb. It wraps around the tree, the incubus, and the shroud.

Everything burns before your eyes. The entire room is illuminated for a moment. You steal a glance, seeing the door is still sealed. A great number of demons are literally on the edges of their seats. Only the incubus in the corner and you don't seem to have your eyes on the stage.

Another shade of gold is reflected against the green of your irises, rather than piercing through them. It steals your attention back, as you turn your head to see the source.

It's the forefront of the incubus.

His shawl is reduced to ash on the floor, the stage smoking from the already extinguished flame.

The only source of light in the room is his body, radiant. He's- she's- it's slowly walking towards you.

There's no solid shapes, no gender, no form, no flesh. For a moment, you see a sensation, you feel a thought, you know something that is deeply intimate and that you have always kept away.

You look upon the face of something you have never permitted yourself to feel.

The demon is the absolute embodiment of desire.

Your breath catches in your throat- you have had your hands on your holy symbol during the entire performance, and shakily, you remove it, placing them to your knees instead.

The figure takes shape properly, leaning towards you, embodying everything you've ever wanted.

>What is the form of what you want to be with most?
>A woman? A Goddess? A demon?
>Write-in not what your heart desires.
>Write-in what you long for with your Flesh.
>>
>>3939663
>Write-in what you long for with your Flesh.
Muscularity beyond what man could do, as beautiful and carved in glory of Flesh with the tellings of harsh labor given form to every cravice, oblique and sinew pulling on the skin that lays as a milky sheet across the form.
>>
>>3939663
>>Write-in what you long for with your Flesh.

Gwen in her purest form unabashed...or is it mercy, your idea of her at least...your eyes can't truly decide, can they?
>>
Going to get some more sleep before work. This will be open until at least 6PM EST, probably a little later than that.

Just a friendly reminder that even though the vote is totally open for write-ins, still going to use my better judgement on this one. But yeah, have fun guys, love you all and I'll be back!
>>
>>3939663
This >>3939670
>>
>>3939663
Gold. A muted hue flowing from a head of pure silver, bright like winters ice yet paradoxically warm. Round eyes, deep and impossibly dark like the heavens, in them shine timid sparkles of starlight, calling, beckoning, begging. With delicate shoulders brought back, alongside a deep breath expose a plentiful chest, tipped with soft pink nipples. Her small waist extends into a pair of long dainty legs, skin pale and gossamer.
>>
>>3939665
This.

But with a mustache.
>>
>>3939665
This, but with a mustache, as other anon suggested.
>>
>>3939930
Changing my vote to blah blah blah wanna fuck the elf

not mercy because fuck that needy whore

this post was made by Vengeancegang
>>
>>3939665
>>3939686
>>3939835
I know that trying to keep the verbiage tasteful here might have led to some miscommunication. Just to be totally clear, this prompt is for what form the incubus took. Not what Richard might want to be, not as a classy depiction of his deepest and most faithful self-image. The prompt is for what he lusts after. A physical manifestation of sexual desire. I am a little disappointed that I have to spell this out so plainly but I'd hate for you guys to waste your time and votes. As previously stated, if you guys just want to joke around with write-ins I'll stick to what makes the most sense. Hope I wasn't so vague that it was totally unclear.
>>
I propose a compromise: Musclegirl Merc/Gewn
>>
>>3939663
>Write-in what you long for with your Flesh.
We long for Mercy, just like we always have.
>>
>>3939665
>>3939663
>The type of man we always secretly fantasized about being. Strong. Healthy. Well-liked. Not suffering and alone.
>>
>>3940127
I still back >>3939670 and >>3939688

>>3940119
>this post was made by Vengeancegang
dangerously based there, anon; perhaps even TOO dangerously...

>>3940295
See >>3940127 nigger
>>
>>3939665
>>3939670
>>3939686
>>3939688
>>3939835
>>3939930
>>3940119
>>3940153
>>3940203
>>3940295
>>3940324
I've got a plan to work with this. Duly noted to be a lot more clear in the future if no prompts are provided! Locking the vote, writing now.
>>
>>3940391
>Richard wants to be uber-swole and have a cool mustache, just like his father - but since his desires and things are somewhat confused, Rem does initially take that sort of form for a short bit
>Richard lusts for either Gwen or Mercy, but cannot decide between either yet - so Rem just corrects himself and becomes a fucked-up fusion of the two
>This gives Richard the strongest boner he has ever had in his entire life
>He's not sure if he likes it or not
>Oh wait, he's a man on a mission and his friends might die if he fucks up
>Yeah, he definitely doesn't like it one bit
>>
>>3940391
The incubus before you shifts and pulls, spinning itself from warm yellows into something nearly transparent. The gossamer is so utterly beautiful you can scarcely stand the sight of it. White gold and silver comes forth from the immaterial form, spilling droplets onto your lap as the body bends and twists, leaning in, utterly incapable of taking a single shape.

For the briefest of moments, lithe muscle, harder than anything a woman could possess courses into a frame that contorts and shifts violently before your eyes. There's a murmuring from the audience, giving way to gasps from the demons around you as it turns into something much more familiar.

You're riveted to your seat as something bordering on divine pulls through from the metal and sin. The edges soften, the white gold parting, revealing somewhat softer flesh, a heaving bosom, and a body that you instantly need to have against you. The woman's midriff could be chiseled out of marble, her arms and legs immaculate. Everything is slender, taut, and entirely bare.

"Father, I've been waiting for you."

Her legs give way to wider, softer hips that settle on your lap, so smoothly and gently that you can't help but take a deep breath in, and fight with every fiber of your being not to pull her in.

"Nnnn, you're so strong- just look at you!"

To say that you are utterly transfixed by the woman before you would disservice your paralysis. Her curves and flawless form doesn't need to dig in, but she does so regardless, eliciting a groan from you and cementing your desire to not pull away.

"Haven't you suffered enough?"

Though her form is so much lighter than any human woman's should be, her touch is searing.

"Isn't this nice? ...to feel so wanted?"

Her hands run themselves up, along your thighs, over your stomach, chest, and finally settle themselves around your shoulders.

"To be healthy, and whole?"

The searing gold lingers as a flame under your skin everywhere she parts from. It's so similar to the same heat that you've been blessed with so many times before, that you almost feel safe.

"Come closer."

You don't want to pull away, but your hands inch back.

A part of you is terrified.

The heat is not of the Goddess. You might not know what the touch of a woman should feel like, this close to you- but this is nothing divine.

Some desperate part of the back of your mind is imploring you that this isn't right.

Not like this.

Not yet.

This may be an immortal, but there is no Mercy here.

"...maybe this is more to your liking, Father?"

(1/3)
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>>3940542
You do scrutinize her, your eyes finally leaving her body. Her hair should not be silver, nor should her eyes be concealed from you. The orbs that seem to take in all light around her delicate skin and radiant flesh seem to be made of only breathtaking starlight and space. Her shoulders and chest should be melding, blending, shifting between the soft gold and the light- not bared and as immaculate as you could have ever hoped for.

Her legs draw closer around you, leaning in further, leaving nothing to your imagination.

The strands of her silver locks, her white-gold skin flush with pearls, her radiance, everything- everything seems utterly flawless, and you want to lean in, to take her.

There is only one, incredibly important detail.

Celegwen is sitting right across from you. The mortification on her face is absolute. Ofelia is right next to her, bristling, holding onto her friend's arm to stay her hand. You have to try to look around the chest of the demon leering before you to catch a glimpse of them. As if on queue, Remigius promptly cuts you off from their view.

The demon pins your shoulders against the high-backed chair with inhuman strength and speed. The voice that comes out is an incredibly disturbing imitation of Celegwen, laced with heat, and gold, and the same divinity that you spoke with earlier- yet her words are lascivious and utterly unfitting for either body that she's imitating.

"Ah, ah, ahh! That won't do. Eyes only on me, Daddy."

Celegwen and Ofelia instantly cry out, moving to intervene. The glimpse that you caught of them was that of abject terror and no small measure of disgust on either of their faces. Still, they both moved to aid you.

"Father-!"
"Richard!"

There's a number of demons snickering in the background, but it's hard to see past the ideal form that is dominating every inch of your field of vision. You try to lean back, to wrench yourself away, to inch your hands to your holy symbol, but the hands on your shoulders tighten with the same, inhuman strength. You feel the bone start to crack- drawing out another groan, and an uproar from the demons around you all.

The succubus leans in, flashing a row of white-gold and silver teeth at you with extreme delight. "Mommy Idonea warned me that you were into some weird shit- but this?! You're going to be more fun than I could have possibly hoped for!"

Someone whistles. A fair number of demons are jeering. You try to take your eyes off of the bared chest before you, to the starlight and darkness instead. It's very difficult to speak through the searing pain. It's fairly difficult to see anything at all, as the demon's grip somehow seems to keep intensifying. Through the gasps being pulled out of you, the blinding pain and flecks of gold, you make out the words that are being murmured right up against your ear.

(2/3)
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>>3940544
You almost cry out, to Ofelia, to Celegwen- for help, for them to attack, for them to run- but your words hang in your choked gasps, caught in your fear at the demon's words. It's obvious that the succubus doesn't want to be heard by anyone else in the room. Her lips are terribly soft, obviously intentionally pressing against you.

"If you want to leave here alive, come with me. I won't lay a finger on your sluts and I'll instruct the party to do the same. They can even leave, now, if you so wish. I'd prefer it."

Through the mounting agony, groans and excruciating pleasure coursing through your shoulders, you choke out your protest.

"And if- nnnn! M-Mercy-! If I refuse-?!"

Ofelia and Celegwen both seem to instantly catch onto the context of the exchange, bristling to attack. Remigius keeps a single hand on your shoulder. The other, with freakish speed and dexterity, wraps into your hair and pulls back with such intensity that you see stars.

"You're really living up to your name, Dick!"

The demons around you all sound like they're enjoying themselves almost as much as you are. It's hard to tell- your breath is hitching so hard, and the moan that was elicited from you was so intense that you aren't quite sure what you heard. You try to lower your gaze, to shoot a death threat at the demon, but she pulls back even harder. The headache that starts to build is instant and so intense that you can scarcely see, let alone fire back another retort.

"We're going to play, and I'm showing you the fucking courtesy to decide how. You got me, sweetheart?"

The jeers from the crowd are intensifying as rapidly as the demon's abuse.

You realize something, and the fear that hits you is so intense that it's almost worse than your fracturing frame.

You did agree to show these demons Mercy- before you ever even knew what that entailed.

Will Idonea refuse to grant me the Relic if I spurn Remigius?
Will we even make it out of here alive, if I put everything I have into protecting my friends?
Will Mercy see fit to work through me, if I break a sworn oath I've made to a former Mother of Her church? Even if Idonea is a demon- I made a vow- and this is not one to be taken lightly.
What if this demon is anything like Yech?
Has everything that I've done since entering this domain been another horrific misunderstanding?
Or is this demon just another psychopath, utterly bent on torturing or killing me and my friends?
Ray is still in the abyss with the demon lord. What if they do something to my boy while I'm gone?!
Would Celegwen and Ofelia even leave now if I asked?


Celegwen and Ofelia are still hesitating to help you. You can't look away from the demon's vice on your hair, not without seriously injuring yourself. You don't know how the audience is reacting to the spectacle being made out of you, but you do have at least one small blessing.

Your right arm is still free.

(Options in next post)
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>>3940549
>A) You are sticking to your word. You're showing this demon Mercy and getting your friends out of here alive, no matter the personal cost. Agree to go to the backroom with Remigius, but only under the condition...
>1) ...that Celegwen and Ofelia are able to remain in her domain unharmed, and can be contacted at a moment's notice. Ensure that they're taken care of, and see what the demon wants with you.
>2) ...that Celegwen and Ofelia can be sent back to the abyss unharmed. You don't know where the swarms of demons you stirred up are, or how they've been held at bay, but the thought of fighting your way out of here with your friends right now is unbearable. Get them somewhere safe, and go this alone.
>3) That you are to not have your tenets broken. Make it abundantly clear to the succubus that no matter what she wants to do with you or your friends, that you all are to be respected while in her domain. You can show compassion and still put your foot down.

>B) You have your limits. This is it. Not even a divine mission from the Goddess of Mercy will get you to go off alone with a succubus. You don't know what this demon's game is, or how dire things may get- but you will not stand for this. You are very hurt and exhausted, but you wouldn't forgive yourself for not trying to escape.
>1) Invoke Vengeance, and strike down the demonn before you with all of the pain that it has inflicted on you tonight. It should be enough to break away- though you're unsure if you could stay on your feet afterwards. Trust your friends to aid you.
>2) Invoke Flesh, to rapidly heal your wounds and to grant you the strength to fight. His strength is proportionate to your weakness, but His blessing should still be far greater than the will you have to fight in your current state.

>C) Write-in.
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>>3940551
>>A) You are sticking to your word. You're showing this demon Mercy and getting your friends out of here alive, no matter the personal cost. Agree to go to the backroom with Remigius, but only under the condition...
>2) ...that Celegwen and Ofelia can be sent back to the abyss unharmed. You don't know where the swarms of demons you stirred up are, or how they've been held at bay, but the thought of fighting your way out of here with your friends right now is unbearable. Get them somewhere safe, and go this alone.
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>>3940551
this >>3940574 seems like the best way to proceed, a one-on-one thing but also
>Remember how you went alone into Yech's cavern. Remember how you managed to reach out to him alone, how he's outright one of the only people who you feel any sort of brotherly bond to, despite being a high-ranking demon. Idonea deliberately chose Remigius as part of your task to her. There must be a reason why the "former" Mother of Mercy did so, and if Yech was any indication then there is more than a chance you can do this too. Something only you can do for Remigius, that none other can...
>>
>>3940574
>>3940584
Nice, going to lock the vote here. I've got no work for the rest of the evening and should be able to update no problem again tonight if we get a few more votes in.

Writing now!
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>>3940647
This wouldn't be my first time facing a demon on their terms.
I went alone into Yech's cavern, and reached out to him when no one else could.
He'd not spoken to anyone in several ages, and there was so much more to him than gluttony or disgust.
Out of all of her children, Idonea deliberately chose for me to meet with Yech, with Remigius.
She chose for me to show this demon Mercy.
There must be a reason why.
There must be something that I can do here, too. Something that no one else can.


"Wait-! Wait! Stop!"

You try to hold out your free hand, to gesture to your friends to halt what no doubt is an imminent attempt to aid you.

The demons around you make an absolute spectacle of themselves, hollering and hooting at your friends.

They're screaming for them to kill you.

What?

"What's that, Daddy? Speak up!"

Another moan is pulled out of you, out of your tortured scalp, out of the tangles wrapped around the succubi's fingers. The cry borders on so obscene that even the demon relaxes her grip. She leans in, whispering once more, "oh, that won't do. I know you must be tense, but I want you to last a lot longer than all that."

The succubus leans back, only slightly, permitting you to glance somewhere other than her flawless curves, her perfect form.

...Mercy.

There's a strong urge to straighten your clothes, to smooth back your hair, to have a drink, a cold bath, to try and make yourself look decent. All you can do is try to not draw out any more pain, any more pleasure. You want to catch your breath, at least, but the succubus seems to have absolutely no patience. Still perched on your lap, she jerks her hips against you, grinning broadly as you try to keep your voice down.

You can properly see, at least, that the entire room has their eyes on the two of you once again. The heat from the demon's body pales in comparison to what's in your face. The flush shows no signs of calming down, as you recognize that everyone here has absolutely been watching you this entire time.

You scan for the exit. There is none. The stage is dark, the only light in the room coming from the succubus perched on your lap.

Your heart sinks.

Your friends are only a few feet away.

The halfling's face is flushed, and you've never seen her look so furious. She's wielding two daggers, dripping with poison, shooting more knives with every glance between you and the succubus. She's standing between you, Remigius, and Celegwen- as the elf is visibly shaking with humiliation and anger. There are stars in her eyes as well. She's clearly been building up and repressing the release of a spell, and you can't help but wonder if the force of it would kill you with the succubus if she were to release it.

Desperately, you stammer, "s-stop. Don't. Please. Go. Go back-"

(1/4)
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>>3940751
There's a deep groan from many of the demons in the seats surrounding you all. The incubus in the corner actually has the nerve to shout, "DICK!"

Celegwen is clearly too irate to speak, but words rarely escape your smaller friend. Ofelia practically screams, "what makes you think we can fuckin' leave?!"

Remigius takes her hand off of your shoulder, alleviating the tension in a single, fluid motion. You practically lose yourself, having to bite down hard into your hand to try and muffle the perfect alleviation. The succubus doesn't give you any time to recover, instead dragging a hand down the front of your shirt, pulling at a button near your chest loose, drawling, "is that a yes?"

Celegwen starts to open her mouth to release her spell, and Ofelia has to practically stab the sorceress to hold her tongue. The two women wrestle with each other, standing, arms and hands locked for an agonizing moment. The halfling struggles with the taller woman's anger. It's likely only Ofelia's ferocity that keeps your friend in check. The second you move to get up, to intervene, Remigius pins you back, hand to your chest, practically knocking the wind out of your lungs. She pulls at your headache, your hair and your patience, and then seems to find a better solution. She slams your head against the backing of the chair, turning your head, ignoring your gasp to force you to merely look at the spectacle.

The halfling's voice is cracking, still obviously drunk, as she grabs firmly onto Celegwen's staff. "Don't-! Don't you fuckin' dare!"

"I'LL KILL HIM-"

Celegwen's crying. No- no. No.

"Mercy, no-! Both of you, stop-"

"He's tryin' to help, can't you fuckin' see-"

"LET ME GO, OFELIA-"

"You're going to get us all killed!"

The anger in your voice is unparalleled, dwarfing Celegwen's righteous tears and Ofelia's abject terror for your lives as they both continue to argue.

You hiss, trying to steady your breath, managing to speak through the tension. "R-Remigius. Stop. Keep y-your word. Let them go. Grant them both s-safe passage. Release them from your domain, unharmed- prove it to me, that they're safe- and I'll do what you ask."

Celegwen's keen ears seem to pick up on your words. As you speak, she stops struggling against Ofelia, and the starlight rapidly fades from her eyes. They're streaked with red, and she's looking to you with so much pain by the time you stop speaking that you can't stand it.

Ofelia keeps a hand to the elf's staff, looking between the two of you with more frustration than you thought possible. You want to avert your eyes, but they're practically forced back onto the women.

The succubus, perched on top of you, is eager to slam your head again, pulling hard on your hair.

"Oh, no. After all this fuss, you're not being coy now! You're looking! You're watching everything."

(2/4)
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>>3940752
You let out a cry, the pain lancing your temples so extreme that you feel sick. It's blending with a sick kind of gratification, something that's begging for just a little bit more.

More.
Mercy.

You murmur, begging not the succubus, not a Goddess, but your friends.

"Move. P-please. Stay safe. Look after Ray for me. I'll come-"

You're cut short by a jeer from several demons, immediately regretting your choice of words as you stammer, "I- I'll be back for you."

Ofelia's absolute fear, Celegwen's anger, and the mutual disgust between them is absolutely crushing. You want to look away, you try to say more clearly, I'm sorry, but you're cut short.

"M-Mercy--! Aahnnn-!"

The succubus pulls unbelievably hard on your scalp, with the same inhuman strength that you're certain has fractured at least your left shoulder. The pain that blossoms from your temples robs any and all attempts at a proper conclusion to your sentence away from you. Starlight and specks of gold dance in your vision for several moments as you feel no hands on your body, the weight lifting off of your lap- but the residual pain is so extreme, you scarcely know what to do with yourself.

"Seriously, they're not enough fun for the hassle. But for you, Dadddy, I'll see what I can do! Sit tight! Try not to puke! ...really, someone get our guest a bucket, and maybe something to drink?"

This is the first time in years you've dealt with a headache without Ray there to at least reassure you. You settle on clutching onto your skull with one hand, biting hard onto the other, trying to silence yourself, to calm down, to think of anything other than the demon's form, of your friend's faces, of what you're getting yourself into. There's the sound of a few demons scrambling to set something down next to you, of Ofelia shouting.

Please stop shouting.

She's not shouting. She's seething, now, seething about some sort of arrangement, arguing. Celegwen- or is it the succubus- one of them is upset. There's a commotion, and you're entirely certain that you're missing something critical.

Everything is moving so quickly, everything is happening so fast- are they already gone? Why is this happening? Why is Mercy working through me this way? What have I done wrong? Have I not done everything to serve her? Is this punishment for my sins? Is this a trick? A ploy? Mercy, this headache-

There's something being shoved into your hands.

It feels like a glass.

There's a voice. I's the imp that was talking to Ofelia earlier. The high pitch catches you off guard. You've never heard a female imp before, but this one is unmistakably feminine.

"Hey, dearie? Take this. It's on the house. ...Rem's escorting your friends out personally. She'll be back soon, and if you want to keep up, you're going to need whatever help you can get, right?"

(3/4)
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>>3940753
There's mixed voices in the background, as the light seems to be coming back up. It's searing, immediately amplifying the pain in your head despite your eyes being shut. You don't feel anyone on you, or around you. There's only the cold glass in your hands, the residual heat from the demon having been on you. The glass at least is something to hold onto. It has a stem, though it doesn't feel like what the champagne was being served in.

Remigius seems to be announcing something to the other demons within the domain, but it's a blur of noise and agony. The blend of nausea, ecstasy and torment is rapidly becoming unbearable. The pain lancing your head is almost enough to overwhelm the partially healed wounds adorning your back, arms and legs, but not by much.

While you'd never dare to question Mercy if you could help it, all of this does make you long for a time when you could take a beating without the way you're feeling now.

You need relief from these sensations, immediately.

>A) Take the drink from the imp, blindly, and hope it helps. If Yech taught you anything about demons, it's that at least some of them know their liquor.

>B) You'll take your chances with riding out the pain on your own. If Ofelia and Celegwen really left that quickly, there's nothing these demons can do to you that you wouldn't want to inflict on yourself.

>C) Try to at least gauge if this is a trap. You're absolutely not equipped to interrogate this imp, but maybe a couple of carefully placed questions can gauge if it's immediately trying to kill you.

>D) Write-in.
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>>3940755
>>C) Try to at least gauge if this is a trap. You're absolutely not equipped to interrogate this imp, but maybe a couple of carefully placed questions can gauge if it's immediately trying to kill you.

I'd straight up drink it if I didn't fear it being some sort of aphrodisiac or similar lel
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>>3940755
>>C) Try to at least gauge if this is a trap. You're absolutely not equipped to interrogate this imp, but maybe a couple of carefully placed questions can gauge if it's immediately trying to kill you.
>>
>>3940755
This >>3940818
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>>3940755
>>C) Try to at least gauge if this is a trap. You're absolutely not equipped to interrogate this imp, but maybe a couple of carefully placed questions can gauge if it's immediately trying to kill you.
>>
>>3940818
>>3940909
>>3940958
>>3941018
Nice, vote is locked here. My break starts today, got plenty of homework to do but I should be able to squeeze in a few updates in between! If you guys keep the votes rolling in I should be able to get a few out today. Writing now.
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>>3941074
The fear of Remigius doing something else to torment you stays your hand, though you're desperate for relief. You lower the glass, your other palm still to your forehead, and dare to whisper, "...what's your name?"

"Lilya. Everyone calls me Lil."

"Lil. Your master would be very upset if you spoiled her fun."

"...you're absolutely right, dearie."

"There isn't anything in this drink, is there?"

"Of course. It's all fruity. ...she suspected you'd like it."

You would- but that's besides the point.

"Lil."

"Yessir?"

"Are aphrodisiacs fruity?"

"This one is."

You cough, scrambling to set the drink down, but the pain lancing your temples is so intense that it's fairly difficult to see. You feel around with your free hand, finding a nearby surface, and gingerly set the glass aside. The imp, oblivious, continues.

"There's a few other things. A minor enchantment to keep you awake for awhile, herbs and a few spices for the pain. A little extra I threw in for the injury, and healing. It's nothing crazy, dearie, only a cocktail. Can't have you fading on her, now can we?"

"...is there anything you can give me that isn't laced with quite so much?"

"Pardon me, dearie?"

"Something for the pain. Not-- pleasure."

"Remigius was very clear regarding your treatment during our stay, dearie. You know how it is. Is there anything else I can get for you while you're waiting? Some ice? A robe? We can get you cleaned up, if you'd like."

You're suddenly aware that you probably look like a shadow of the man that entered the building. It's abundantly clear that Mercy's healing was substantially slower than usual. Most of the wounds inflicted on you during your prayer to Her are still tender. You don't dare to press onto the bruises, new scar tissue or fainter lacerations, but you do at least try and survey the damage. Through the haze of the agony coursing through your skull, you see that the worst of it seems to be from the acid that hit your back. There's more than a few holes in the back and shoulders of your shirt. The sleeve that the succubi's whip shredded is entirely gone, and your lap is speckled with white gold and silver from the succubus grinding on you for more than a few minutes. With no small measure of embarrassment, you at least fix the button that Remigius unfastened off, try to fix your hair, and replace your hand to your temples.

Would Yech still think me cleaner than this demon if he saw me right now?

To your unending horror, the music is starting back up again. There's no doubt that the headache is here to stay with it.

(Options in next post)
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>>3941103
>A) You aren't touching any food or drink until you leave this place. Ask for something to cover your wounds, ice, a few bandages, and something decent to wear. There's no doubt that the pain won't let up, but at least you can try and mend your own injuries.

>B) Take the drink, knowing the risk. You have no idea how long you'll be stuck here for, and you can't fathom keeping up with this demon in your current state. Make a display of good will- not to commit to anything, but to get some much needed aid.

>C) Refuse anything from the imp. You're not here to impress anyone. Ask her a few questions, at least, while you wait for Remigius to return.
>1) What happened to the mob of demons that were chasing you?
>2) Is there anything Lil can tell you about her master that might help with your mission?
>3) Why is she trying to aid you?

>D) Write-in.
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>>3941105
>>A) You aren't touching any food or drink until you leave this place. Ask for something to cover your wounds, ice, a few bandages, and something decent to wear. There's no doubt that the pain won't let up, but at least you can try and mend your own injuries.
Also ask her about Remigius while we're at it.
>>
>>3941105
>A) You aren't touching any food or drink until you leave this place. Ask for something to cover your wounds, ice, a few bandages, and something decent to wear. There's no doubt that the pain won't let up, but at least you can try and mend your own injuries.

I might be paranoid, but it seems like these demons just want to screw with us, and not in the good way.
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>>3941105
>A) You aren't touching any food or drink until you leave this place. Ask for something to cover your wounds, ice, a few bandages, and something decent to wear. There's no doubt that the pain won't let up, but at least you can try and mend your own injuries
>>3941149
also the good way
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>>3941122
>>3941149
>>3941151
Pretty unanimous here (time will tell if it's in the good way), going to lock the vote! Writing now.
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>>3941156
if we're screwed , we're screwed as a collective. can't be the weak link if we all are
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>>3941158
United in your suffering. It's admirable. Seriously you guys are the best.

I'm going to dump these, been saving them for the end of the thread but I think some motivation is needed in these trying times.
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>>3941160
I've accumulated so much art over the last couple months that these were shockingly easy to throw together. Hope you guys enjoy the meme dream.
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>>3941162
Just realized the file sizes are a little wonky, my b.
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>>3941163
If anyone wants any of the individual images in a higher res I'll happily share, too, ofc.
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>>3941164
Saved the best for last. Alright, actually going to write now.
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>>3941165
https://youtu.be/vsZtCLMsevM

Clutching at your head, you try to compose yourself. It's hard to say if you're dreading or longing for what your host has in store for you, but you'd rather take it on with as many of your senses intact as possible.

I'm not paranoid. Right? This has been an absolute nightmare, and Remigius has given me no reason to trust her. I need to look out for myself. Using some caution has already saved me from what could have been a disaster. I need to stay alert.

"You can take the drink- I'll take some ice. Some bandages, and something decent to wear would also be appreciated."

The imp giggles.

"Define decent?"

Mercy, grant me your compassion.

"I would like my skin covered. All of it. With cloth. I can make an illustration, if you'd like-"

"I was just teasin', dearie."

The imp leaves the glass on the counter. Your vision is hazy, and your frustration is making it impossible to concentrate, but it's easy enough to tell that she's lingering.

"Lil?"

"Yessir?"

"Before you go- what can you tell me about Remigius?"

"I'm so glad you asked."

The imp takes hold of the smaller chair Ofelia had been sitting in, sliding it over and sitting a safe distance away from you. You appreciate someone respecting your physical space for what feels like the first time in ages, but her words still unnerve you.

"She presides over all of the succubi and incubi within this domain, and all who serve under them. The master is very sociable- as I'm sure you're aware-"

You cringe, trying to ignore the scrutiny of the demons around you. Though your vision is a blur, you can still hear their murmurings. Even over the music, most of them are talking about the show that Remigius put on at your expense. The incubus from the corner is loudly complaining about Celegwen's absence and arguing with another demon as to whether or not Remigius' impersonation of her is an improvement or not over the elf's usual appearance.

Mercy, may she find it in her heart to forgive me.

Lil continues, unphased.

"The master is of enough influence to command the attention of every other demon here. She only answers to Mother Idonea. ...and, I suppose, to you."

Your vision clears a good bit. You straighten up, alarm shooting through your spine like a hot poker.

"I'm sorry- what was that?"

"I know you heard me. The girl's got enough problems as it is, but she's been asked to not harm you on top of it all. It's very difficult for someone of her leanings to not feed, you know."

You take a very deep breath, murmur a prayer to Mercy, and try not to snap.

"What would you call everything she did to me, then?"

"Foreplay, sweetheart."

"...may the Goddess take her Mercy on you and every demon that disgraces this fallen--"

"Try not to take it too personally, dearie. I'm just doing my job, and she's just a handful. I'm sure you'll be alright, though."

(1/2)
>>
>>3941209
The imp leans in, looking around the room to ensure no one is paying any attention to her. They don't seem to be, as she fishes something out of her blouse. You hadn't paid any attention to the imp's appearance, but you realize her ornate servant's attire is actually quite flattering on her small and curvaceous frame. Her small horns, blue skin and rows of fangs would be endearing, if they didn't smell so heavily of perfume and blood.

She takes one of your hands, very gingerly, feigning as if she was looking over the lacerations and wounds.

You don't shy away as she palms something into your hand. It feels like two small keys. Lilya gives you a wink.

"Try not to worry! She usually doesn't kill the ones she wants to keep around-- and you're definitely her type."

I need to make this up to Yech, somehow.

"Sit tight. I'll be right back."

The instant Lilya turns to leave, you confirm that no one saw your exchange. Though there's multiple demons staring intently at you, and plenty more that are shooting you an occasional glance, it seems that no one has noticed that anything is out of the ordinary.

You slip the keys as discreetly as you can into your left pants pocket.

Leaning back into the chair you've been given, you try and assess your wounds to the best of your ability, to meditate, to gather yourself. It helps relieve the pain slightly, though it feels like your head throbs with every beat of the incessant music pulsing throughout the lounge. By the time Lil gets back, your vision is clear, and you make quick work of thanking her for the bandages, ice and herbs.

You ask her, politely, to leave the black and gold smoking jacket on the chair next to you. There's a matching pair of pants that she places alongside it, to the snickers and jibes of multiple demons sitting across from you. You try and ignore them, leaving the attire and setting to dressing your wounds instead.

There are several problems with this.

Despite everything, you're terribly modest. The majority of your wounds will take some time to dress and treat. The worst of them are on your back, making them difficult to reach or see. You have no mirror, no tools, and there's a commotion coming from backstage.

The lights are up, and it sounds like Remigius is heading back. The demon's voice, with its uncanny resonance and divinity, seems to have been maintained throughout her venture to escort your friends out of her domain.

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3941216
>A) You'd rather take care of yourself before dealing with the succubus again. Deal with the dozens of eyes on you, for the sake of properly dressing your wounds and making yourself presentable for your host.
>1) Do it yourself, and settle for a sub-optimal job. You still have enough self-respect to try and do things yourself.
>2) Ask Lilya for some aid. Even an extra hand would be better than nothing. You're past having any pride at this point in the evening.

>B) With the way Remigius has behaved, you doubt there's anything she could see that would phase her. More importantly, you know she isn't going to kill you. Take the things Lilya brought for you along with the succubus, wherever she wishes to see you in private.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3941220
>>A) You'd rather take care of yourself before dealing with the succubus again. Deal with the dozens of eyes on you, for the sake of properly dressing your wounds and making yourself presentable for your host.
>>1) Do it yourself, and settle for a sub-optimal job. You still have enough self-respect to try and do things yourself.
>>
>>3941220
>>B) With the way Remigius has behaved, you doubt there's anything she could see that would phase her. More importantly, you know she isn't going to kill you. Take the things Lilya brought for you along with the succubus, wherever she wishes to see you in private.
We could get some talking in while she eye fucks us.
>>
>>3941220
>>A) You'd rather take care of yourself before dealing with the succubus again. Deal with the dozens of eyes on you, for the sake of properly dressing your wounds and making yourself presentable for your host.
>2) Ask Lilya for some aid. Even an extra hand would be better than nothing. You're past having any pride at this point in the evening
>>
>>3941220
>B) With the way Remigius has behaved, you doubt there's anything she could see that would phase her. More importantly, you know she isn't going to kill you. Take the things Lilya brought for you along with the succubus, wherever she wishes to see you in private.
No balls.
>>
>>3941230
>>3941232
>>3941266
>>3941308
Locking the vote while the tie is split, writing now!
>>
>>3941316
The sound of the succubus rapidly approaching from backstage carries over the building music. Her cries for you, for her beloved public, and for several things too indecent for you to internalize are difficult to miss. The majority of the demons around you take their seats once again. Lilya bows slightly to you, before disappearing from sight.

You gather your things, shoving them into your bag, hissing as the skin along your back tenses. You try to favor your unfractured shoulder, wiping off your bleeding hands onto the bandages, and get shakily to your feet.

The only way you won over Yech was through asserting yourself.

There's nothing this demon could do to you- nothing she can see, nothing she can say- that could be worse than the humiliation and fear she subjected your friends to. There's nothing she could do to you that you wouldn't willingly do to yourself.

The multitude of demons around the lounge seem to have a fair amount of respect for you, as you walk up to meet the succubus.

You are not afraid.

The curtains part, and Remigius, still in a twisted amalgamation of Mercy and Celegwen, strikes a pose.

She's stunning.

Her silver hair hangs behind her head, dripping with pearls as she arches her back, reaching out to you with immaculate temptation.

The crowd around you breaks out into hysteria as you answer her call. You don't break your pace, striding up to the stage, and permitting yourself to be grabbed firmly by your collar.

The curtain closes.

Muffled cheers, cries, whistles, and the pounding music all begin to fade as you're rapidly dragged away. Your headache subsides slightly, though the force with which Remigius is dragging you forward is enough to have your pulse racing again. The back of the stage is so dark you can scarcely see where you're going, but you make a number of sharp turns down increasingly narrow corridors.

"Where are you taking me--"

"I'll find a better use for your mouth if you don't stop talking. We're nearly there."

The demon kicks a door ahead of her wide open, light flooding into the narrow hallways you've been pulled through. You turn to look behind you for a moment, seeing red walls made entirely of flesh, blood slick over the hundreds of passageways, countless doors all labeled only with single identifying numbers on each, and absolutely no indication of the way you came.

"Get in."

The door before you has no marker. It slams shut behind you both, as you're dragged into the room and practically thrown aside.

You keep your footing, delighted to have a little more weight to you, but instantly on edge from tensing again. The pain coursing through your shoulder is blinding, but you still manage to readjust your holy symbol, straighten what's left of your shirt, and finally get to try and smooth out your hair.

(1/3)
>>
>>3941421
The rest of the room begins to light up. Though Remigius' form is still casting golden light around you both, she makes an incredibly smooth gesture with her wrists, followed by a jerk upwards.

Candlelight bursts forth from several dozen candles, on a number of ledges around the perimeter of the room.

You're less impressed by the spell, and more by your surroundings. It's quite spacious, at least 30 feet across from end to end. Everything is red. The smooth walls, the thick furs on the wooden floor, the countless indecent toys, the bottles of perfume, the bar. The enormous, curtained, and altogether inviting bed in the center of the room is an even deeper shade of crimson, reminding you instantly of the blood that's drying on your hands and shoulders. There's a large chandelier hanging from the ceiling, made entirely out of gold and red diamonds.

You snap your eyes back to the succubus, as she makes a scene out of slinking over to the bar across from you. It's impossible to not follow her body, her long and lithe legs, her hips, her perfect waist and back.

Your eyes meet.

You start to unfasten your shirt.

"Oh, Daddy! I didn't know you were so eager-"

There's a look in her eyes that you're used to only seeing in the church.

It's worship.

"I've seen that look before, Remigius."

The succubus entirely forgets about the liquor, her eyes drinking in your shaky movements instead as you rid yourself of the tattered garment completely.

"I've heard entirely to the contrary~"

"...that's not what I meant."

It's hard to hide your distaste, and you'd prefer to get this over with quickly. Though the succubus seems utterly delighted to pour her eyes over you, you want to cringe away on instinct. The scrutiny wouldn't be welcome in the best of circumstances, but this is entirely unnatural. Having put on so much weight in such a short span of time, your body scarcely feels like your own. It certainly doesn't look it. You try to focus on the familiar scars, the evidence of your service, your medals of devotion and worship instead. While they're so plentiful that it's hard to not feel grotesque, you know each and every one of them came from fighting for protection, for compassion, for something you believed in.

"I know it must be difficult to speak of it, Remigius- but-"

The first attempts to treat your wounds cut your words short. Your body is so ravaged with pain that it's proving difficult to administer any aid without making matters worse. Your trembling only seems to put Remigius more on edge, as she slinks back over and throws herself over a nearby lounge chair. There are at least four of them you can see in the immediate vicinity, likely placed for posing.

"I'd like to help your nerves, but you seem so obsessed with keeping your hands to yourself."

"It's not nerves--"

"I thought you weren't a liar?"

(2/3)
>>
>>3941426
"I'm not. I know that you want to help me just as much as I want to help you."

You make no attempt at grace as you start to cleaning the burns, to making a salve for your fractures and bruises, to getting the bandages properly wrapped around you. Every motion is agonizing, and the heat in your face floods back far too quickly for your liking. It's difficult, but you try to maintain your composure, to remember yourself, your tenets, your task. The succubus is taking the bait well, her taunting and teasing completely silenced as you obviously are drawing a fair amount of pleasure from your task. You try to keep your voice level through it all. It helps that you can focus on looking at the mortar and pestle, the bandages, your work.

"You were pious, weren't you? A devotee not just to Mercy- you were taken by Flesh, too? ...weren't you?"

Something clicks.

Mercy.
Flesh.

You stop administering your salve, strapping on the last of the bandages with shaking hands.

The abandoned Church.
The way this pain is affecting me isn't just Mercy's doing.
It's not just from using Her so often. Our connection is strong- this has never been an issue before.
This isn't a punishment for how I've behaved in the last few days.
This isn't for my sins.
It's from invoking Her with Flesh, isn't it?

The succubus stalks over to you, wrapping her white-gold arms around your shoulders, leaning in so closely that you can feel the heat radiating off of her.

It doesn't escape you that she went straight for the fracture. You still try to restrain the cry that she pulls out of you, as she digs her arm in, leaning in even closer. The demon lets up only on the uninjured side of your body, running a few digits down your chest, and looking up to you with the same devotion as before. Her voice has a sickeningly sweet, cloying radiance to it. The similarity to Celegwen's light speech and Mercy's warmth is a terrible blend of comfort, longing and frustration that's driving you insane.

"We're two sides of the same coin, Daddy. I'm not so bad, if you give me what I want. And I do know you'll give me what I want."

Though your heart is in your throat, you take a deep breath, steeling yourself against the cracked bone and rekindled ecstasy.

"What do you want, Remigius?"

She leans in, dangerously close, the starlight and vacancy where her eyes should be closing for a blessed moment.

She looks back to you, letting up, slightly, on your shoulder. Her golden lips part, her words soft, leaning so hard into Mercy that you almost mistake the sound for the Goddess Herself.

"I want you to hold me. Just hold me, for now. ...please."

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3941429
>A) This demon is clearly insane, trying to bed you and to make you destroy your vows. Refuse. Firmly. You can talk, but you will not touch her.

>B) This demon is clearly insane, and to refuse her is likely going to get something broken, or worse. Comply with her request- only her request- and if she shows any further violence, fight back with everything you have.

>C) You came here to show this demon Mercy. She's obviously not right in the head, but this is something you can do. Try to calm her down, and hold her. Explain clearly that you don't mean anything further by it, and that you want to help.

>D) Gently, but firmly, try to explain to the succubus that you will not willingly touch her- but that you want to understand what's going on. If she raises a fuss, let her work out her aggression on you. Something is very wrong with her, and you intend to find out what, even if it kills you.

>E) Write-in.
>>
>>3941431
>>C) You came here to show this demon Mercy. She's obviously not right in the head, but this is something you can do. Try to calm her down, and hold her. Explain clearly that you don't mean anything further by it, and that you want to help.
This but also be ready for her to try to force some shit unto us.
>>
>>3941431
>C

As long as this doesn't go further. We had our one night of sin, now it's back to the full holy.
>>
>>3941431
this >>3941473
Maybe also talk about how Richard has been through shit too? Or would that just give her stuff to pick at when she inevitably goes bitch mode, or not?
>>
>>3941431
>>C) You came here to show this demon Mercy. She's obviously not right in the head, but this is something you can do. Try to calm her down, and hold her. Explain clearly that you don't mean anything further by it, and that you want to help.
>>
>>3941435
>>3941473
>>3941498
>>3941567
I think it would be entirely in character for our holy man to talk a bit about himself, regardless of the context. It's what he does best.

Going to call the vote here to get in at least one more update tonight! Writing now!
>>
>>3941617
"As long as this doesn't go any further, Remigius."

Your words of caution are immediately met with complete relief from the pressure on your shoulder. You instinctively want to rub the site of the wound. The urge is not to alleviate the pain, but to pull more out. You check yourself, knitting your hands together over your holy symbol.

It's proving impossible to slow your pulse, to ease your heavy breathing. The succubus won't stop staring at you, and the way that her eyes are utterly devouring your form has you so on edge that it takes far longer than it should. You persevere, closing your own eyes for a moment, shielding the green from her unrelenting body.

I've had my night of sin.
I've had a few days of it now, in fact— but I have to remember myself.
I may not hear it often enough in these ruins, but I'm the Father of the Church of Mercy.
Not a demon, or a lunatic, or even a sinner.
I'm a man of the cloth, pious and utterly devoted to the Gods.
My reverence for them is without equal. I'm sure of it.
The Gods know of my devotion. They know that I won't fall from their path so easily.
Ultimately, I'm here to show this demon Mercy.
I won't stray from Her light.


"Hey, Daddy? Now really isn't the time or the place. You can put your hands on something much better than that little trinket 'round your neck, you know? I'm right here."

The succubus places a hand, gently, underneath your chin to command your full attention. Every fiber of your being is expecting more pain, more immediate abuse. You almost offer her a slight smile, trying to take her gently into your arms.

"...come here. It's okay."

Remigius almost immediately meets your expectations, pulling away hard before you can properly hold her. The sudden, violent motion pulls hard on your shoulder and back, drawing out another groan. You clench your right fist, trying not to aggravate your wounds further, biting hard on the knuckle to try and muffle the sound.

"Don't be such a fucking tease, I know you like it. Come here~"

The succubus pulls away further from you, reclining once again on one of the lounge chairs. She pats on the red cushion, the short back. Its wooden legs are larger than you would expect, and the seat looks to be more than enough to accommodate both of you— if you do honor her request to sit closely.

Wincing, you walk over to Remigius, and let out a cry as the succubus pulls you down onto her.

"Daddy—!"

"Nnn— s-stop, Remigius. S-sit up."

You immediately pull back, trying not to moan, sitting upright as professionally and clinically as you can. The succubus pouts intensely, punching you as firmly as she can probably manage on your arm. It's, of course, the one that had been whipped only a short while ago. She doesn't jostle your excellent bandage work, but you can't help but to pull back with a groan.

(1/3)
>>
>>3941711
She shows no signs of relenting, whining and teasing until you force her arms around your waist. With no small measure of agony, you put your own abused limbs around hers as best as you're able. You'd hope that the flush across your face could not be any more intense, but promptly have your hopes crushed. The moment your arms are around each other, she starts squeezing your stomach and hips, placing her head on your good shoulder and pulling you in totally flush to her exposed body.

"S-stop it."

"Make me."

"I'm trying to help you, Remigius. Don't abuse my courtesy."

"It's this or I break your fucking shoulder, Dick."

"...I've been through worse. Do what you need to."

You pull back, slightly, threatening the succubus with moving away from her.

"I mean it. No more."

She draws you in again, your bodies pressed tightly against one another as she settles her arms around your waist— and calms down almost immediately. Physically, at least.

"I have half a mind to kill you now, you know."

To your absolute shock, she's minding her hands. The succubus still has her head over your shoulder, and you can't see her expression as she murmurs, "it's pretty obvious that you've been through worse. How the fuck else do you think I know you can take it?"

You aren't quite sure how to reply, the heat in your face and body robbing you of so much coherency that you merely sit with the succubus for a few moments in silence. She feels warmer than you do, and the gentle radiance of her back and hair is so captivating that you scarcely want to take your eyes off of her. Her form is so still that you are acutely aware of every slight tremor in your hands and back, which she is obviously itching to caress. You're floored by how much restraint she has, for a demon of Flesh, and try distracting her.

"More than the physical, Remigius."

"That's pretty obvious, too, Daddy."

"...is it, really?"

"I couldn't say what, exactly, but I have my guesses. Word gets around, too."

You can hear the viciousness creeping back into her voice.

"You won't come inside me? I sure as shit can tell a few demons have been in you since you've come down here."

She's leaning her head against yours, her arms tightening around your gut, her bosom pushing itself roughly against your chest. You move to pull away, but she holds you closer still.

"Demons in your head, demons in your body! You'll let Tsilorm ravage your mind, you'll let Yech ravage your vessel— so why not me?"

"I never asked the shrouded— I mean, Tsilorm— to do anything. He wanted to break me, and I killed him for it, Remigius."

The succubus laughs, softly, holding you closer still.

"I know. He had it coming. I bet you liked that, too, didn't you?"

(2/3)
>>
>>3941713
"No— no, I didn't. I hated it, and I'd appreciate it if you would stop saying his name. ...it's been a few weeks, but I'm still trying to deal with it—"

"Like this," she asks, pulling away briefly only to poke at your chest and stomach.

"Yes. Like this. ...and stop that. Yech said that he was trying to help me, but I know that he was also trying to help you, too."

You ignore the urge to swat away her hands, putting her down with your words, instead.

"You could learn a lot from him, Remigius."

She's already back in your arms again halfway through your first sentence. "That's not a good enough fucking answer, Daddy. You're trying to cheat the fucking system, aren't you?"

You really do not like her tone of voice. There's threat in it of something and you can't tell what, but there's the sound of a chain, and you move to pull away—

The succubus holds you as tightly as she likely can against her form, clasping something extremely heavy around your left wrist. It's so tight that you can't fathom slipping out of it. She pulls down, hard, aggravating the fracture in your shoulder once again.

"Let me remind you of what you're supposed to be preaching~!"

You've felt it a few times before, in the church of Mercy. The irony is not lost on you, despite the scream that the demon pulls out of you, the blossoming pain and the instant panic.

It's a restraint.

A very substantial manacle, to be precise.

You try not to panic, the weight of the keys in your pocket some measure of comfort. You're not a little boy struggling to invoke the Goddess anymore— whether you want to or not. You no longer need your hands to call upon Mercy. If it comes down to it, you don't need to speak, either.

The succubus bristles, and obviously intends to move again. She seems to be gauging your response, rather than immediately trying to overpower you.

>A) Keep your cards to your chest. Let the demon have her fun with the restraints. She's far more agreeable when you give her what she wants, and you have multiple means of escape if necessary. Let her think she has the upper hand.

>B) Demand that Remigius release you, and make it clear that you won't need your hands to strike her down. Fight her tooth and nail if you have to. She may be physically capable, but you have the Gods on your side, and you will not be held down in the lair of a demon.
>1) Invoke Flesh, if you can. Flaunt the God's blessing in her face.
>2) Invoke Mercy, if you must. She will surely protect you from the worst of the demon's administrations.

>C) You're too honest, hurt, and holy for this nightmare. Tell the demon plainly that her imp gave you keys, and that you'll go along with her games if it will make her happy. Make your position known, even if it makes matters worse.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3941718
>C) You're too honest, hurt, and holy for this nightmare. Tell the demon plainly that her imp gave you keys, and that you'll go along with her games if it will make her happy. Make your position known, even if it makes matters worse.

We've played Richard as honest this whole time, so I doubt keeping our cards close to the chest will do much. Also with the line about Mercy being all too eager to leave us earlier, I'm spooked about channeling. Might as well play it straight.
>>
>>3941733
>D

Lets stay calm and collected, we have the means to escape. Let’s be smart, like we’ve been before.

Remind regilus we told him no more. Recite some litany of purity in our head, but no prayers yet. Raise an eyebrow and ask what’s the meaning of this.
>>
>>3941718
backing >>3941973
We're not lying or anything; we're just playing it cool. We'll tell her we have the keys, just not now. That's not breaking Mercy's tenets right?
>>
>>3941973
>>3941983
Lying by omission is still a form of deception. It's not made explicit in your tenets and is generally easily forgiven, especially due to how common it is. Just bear in mind that as the Father of the Church of Mercy, you're generally held to the highest possible standard, and know what would be approved of by your Goddess.

tl;dr What flies for Farmer Brown is unbecoming for you and possibly outright harmful.

Desperate times though, right?

Woke up a little too early, going to leave this open for a few more hours while I get some more rest.
>>
>>3941996
ok fuck that then

>>3941718
changing my vote from >>3941983 to
>C) You're too honest, hurt, and holy for this nightmare. Tell the demon plainly that her imp gave you keys, and that you'll go along with her games if it will make her happy. Make your position known, even if it makes matters worse.
One of the only things Richard hasn't broken or fucked up. Let's not change that here.
>>
>>3941996
Wait, Richard could still do the quiet "what's the meaning of this?" and still keep calm and collected, then do the key reveal and that he'll play along to still keep to the truth. Right?
>>
>>3941999
Right, that would be totally fine so long as he intends to not keep something he knows is relevant to the situation at hand a secret. It's not a sin to panic, ask questions and be straight forward. Just super sketchy to not say shit period, ofc. But that would be totally fine
>>
>>3942003
Then I guess that's the best way to go about things here.
>>
>>3942005
>>3941999
I second
>>
Ahhhh fuck it I'm just going to stay up to write. Vote is locked, going to go with the majority here to

>>3942007
>>3942005
>>3942003
>>3941997

and a bit of >>3941733

Writing now!
>>
>>3942009
Thanks for writing <3 Do mind you get enough sleep though.
>>
>>3942027
It's an absolute pleasure my dude, and thanks for the concern. I'm heading right back to bed once this is done.
>>
>>3942009
Despite how soft your words are, you still command the succubi's complete attention. She slinks around you, pulling away from your arms to better manipulate something behind your back.

"What's the meaning of this?"

Your voice is level, but your pulse could not be higher. The manacle is heavy enough to constantly pull at the fracture in your shoulder, and you can feel the damage worsening by the second. The pain is becoming cold in its intensity, but you force your nerves down, commanding yourself to keep your composure. Remigius doesn't answer immediately, obviously preoccupied with whatever she's twisting behind your back. The chain sounds as heavy as the restraint around your wrist-

"The second is much easier than the first, if you know what you're doing!"

Both restraints around your wrist. She effortlessly twisted both arms behind your back, and seems to be surveying the work with no small measure of delight.

You hazard an excruciating glance over your shoulder to confirm it. The gold manacles are clean and you at least suspect you won't pick up on an illness from a previous occupant, but you have to wonder if they were made specifically for you. The chain leading to the ground is impossibly thick, and so much heavier than the metal would normally indicate that you have to wonder if the gold is only superficial.

Don't panic.

"Remigius."

The succubus slinks entirely out of your field of vision, turning around you as you try to lean back, to relieve some of the pressure. You don't dare to shrug or aggravate your wounds any further, but you do gesture slightly with your head towards the succubus. She keeps herself out of sight, obviously trying to play into your fear.

"It's as I said before: you aren't going to scare me so easily. I don't need my hands to call upon Mercy—"

"I'm into just about everything, but don't make me want to kill you that quickly, Daddy. ...besides, are you not having fun?"

"That wasn't a threat. I have no intention of fighting you, and I don't particularly care to invoke Her. Not given my current position."

Your voice drops to a murmur for only a moment.

"Especially given what you've put me through this evening."

"You've loved every second of me. Don't lie to yourself, Daddy. You're terrible at it."

You take a long pause— not in spite of the excruciating pain, but because of it. It's getting a lot harder to keep your voice level, but gesturing to your pants with a succubi's full attention on you is out of the question.

"I want to hate you, Remigius, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't enjoying myself. ...I'm trying to be level with you. I really do want to help. Don't— don't go digging around for it, but one of your servants gave me two ke—"

Your words are cut short, instantly, as the succubus spins back around to the front of you, practically jumping back onto your lap and placing her hands to your hips.

"Where are they?"

(1/3)
>>
>>3942035
"I told you, no more, Remigius—"

"I'll flay what's left of your clothes and everything underneath it with my bare fucking teeth if you don't tell me this fucking instant—"

You pause again. The threat scarcely intimidates you.

The silence seems to boil the demon's blood. She actually does bare her teeth, and starts to lean down. You interrupt her outburst the moment she starts to bite at your belt.

"This is extremely unnecessary. They're in the left pocket. My left. Remigius may the Goddess take Mercy on you if you don't get your hands OUT—"

The succubus takes her hands out of your pants entirely, and dangles both keys before your face with the same lecherous grin. She obscenely sucks and licks at the keys before you for a long minute before placing both items entirely in her mouth.

With absolutely no hesitation, she swallows both of them.

"Ooh, Daddy, if only you gave me something else to keep mouth busier with! What a shame. I don't suppose you have a blessing that will help you pick a lock, hmmm? Maybe I should call up your busty babe and see if she'll bail you out?"

"Your mouth has been busy enough already, Remigius."

"Could you be any more naive? Who do you think you're talking to?"

The succubus puts a finger to your temple, pressing firmly, pulling your headache back out in full force. It's impossible to keep yourself quiet, but you settle for letting the sounds escape and firing right back.

"Y-you're not fooling anyone, Remigius."

"You think you're so fucking smart?! Mister High-and-Mighty, you fucking worship yourself so hard you wouldn't know another person if they—"

The slap across your face interjects her tirade. You spit out a small measure of blood, as she continues.

"—hit you clean across the fucking face with it! Ha! But this is fine, right?! This is fucking fine, and you can't fucking touch me, isn't that how it works?! IT'S BULLSHIT, DADDY. But it's your bullshit. This is what you want, right?"

She sounds like she wants to cry.

This woman is completely unhinged. How did this happen? Isn't she surrounded by people who want her? Is this an effect of her Catalyst?

There's a slight sob that escapes from the demon as she hits you again. She pulls the punch, making contact with your abdomen only with enough pressure to drag out another wave of relief. You still have the wind in your lungs enough to murmur.

"All you've done is make it much harder for me to hold you."

"Shut UP!"

There's another extremely fast movement, as Remigius grinds against you, leaning in, and pulling back on your hair once more.

"Listen, okay?"
>>
>>3942036
You let out a groan, her physical message blaring with such intensity that you scarcely hear her threats. You almost nod, but it only aggravates the strain.

She's grinning, broadly, and you catch a single slip in her illusion. Every one of the demon's teeth are filed to points.

"You want to show me something, right? That's fine. I know you've got places to be. I promised Mommy to let you out of here alive and in one piece."

"Is a f-fracture— your idea of—"

"I said shut up. I don't take too fucking kindly to all of the fun you've taken from me, Daddy. You've killed a lot of my toys. I want you to make it up to me, and I know you're too full of yourself to go along with me willingly."

"I keep trying to tell you, I want to help—"

"Do I need to get a gag?"

"No. But you don't understand—"

"I'm getting a gag or a drink if I hear one more word. Probably both. I know I have a funnel around here somewhere..."

Even though your neck is still being strained back, it's all too easy to see the demon has more than enough supplies to back up her threat. You remain silent, for a moment.

"That's better! See how fucking EASY I am?! Do you have any idea how fucking insufferable it is to spend a few hundred years with bastards who don't know how to please a girl?!"

The hand in your hair is tightening to the extent that you can't keep your composure. The succubus seems to pick up on your distress, and relaxes her fingers, pulling her arms away while staying perched so precariously on you.

"Give me one night. One night without any of your bullshit, without any fuss. Let me show you what I worship..."

She leans in, whispering, her breath hot on your neck.

"...and I'll let you go."

The innocent and entirely uncertain look in your eye elicits an immediate groan from the succubus.

"You're fucking hopeless. I don't even want to be your first. I just want to show you a good time! You're crazy enough that I can get really creative, Daddy. I don't mean anything by it."

Something leaks into her voice. It's not Mercy, nor an imitation of Celegwen or even lust.

She sounds terrified, as she wraps both of her arms back around you, holding you so close you can scarcely breathe.

"Don't fucking test me. Don't tell me no. I know you're sick of being told what you can't do, too."

Mercy and Flesh have seen fit to bless me in a way that I don't think I'll ever fully understand.
This still isn't gray. I know that I'd be breaking my vows to show any intimacy to this demon.
Is this all she really wants?

(Options in next post)
>>
>>3942039
>A) You have to say no.
>1) But you don't necessarily have to stop her. Let the demon abuse you. Give Remigius what she wants, without compromising your vows. It will no doubt still reflect poorly on you, on your standing with Mercy, with Flesh— but this is in the name of your Goddess. It's all in the name of your mission. Surely, one more night of sin won't destroy a lifetime of worship.
>2) You're going to dig, and find out an alternative, even if she tries to kill you. Even if you fail. (Write-in any suggestions you have— or questions you want to ask.)

>B) You have to say yes. You took your vow at a time when you did not understand or care about its full implications. This is so much more important than upholding your oath to the church that's tormented you all your life.
>1) Give Remigius what she's asking for. Permit her to do what she wants to you, in exchange for your release, and having satisfied Idonea's request. Do it for the Relic. For Mercy.
>2) Give the succubus what she wants— and what you need. You're a human, a man, frustrated, repressed, and altogether at the limits of your patience. You have strove to uphold your tenets in every conceivable way and spent your entire life serving others. Just this once, you want to do something for yourself.

>C) Write-in.
>>
>>3942040
You want to get creative? Yech has instilled a new appreciation for dice in me, we play a game and whoever rolls more gets a punch in. Maybe a coin would work too?
>>
>>3942040
>A2

I can't lose my virginity because I never lose.

Tell her you think she's lying about why. The partying demons were tearing each other apart as they boned. We aren't even close to that crazy, or at least we're crazy in a completely different way.
>>
>>3942054
This but drinking game
>>
>>3942054
Strip poker jk I mean I'm at a loss but inaction is worse than anything so might as well.
>>
>>3942054
At a loss as well, so supporting.
>>
>>3942112
>>3942054
Pretty sure I can actually work in both of these

>>3942253
>>3942255
>>3942256
Definitely leaning more towards the game. Since you guys previously voted overwhelmingly to not touch any food or drink until you left I'm going to omit that bit (for now).

Okay! Vote is locked. Writing now.
>>
>>3942258
"Remigius— I think you're wrong."

"What the fuck did you say to me—"

You'd expect her to pull away, but the succubus instead leans hard into the embrace, reaching behind your back. She pulls on the chain connecting to your wrists with so much force that you're shocked your shoulder doesn't detach completely.

The pain is so blinding that you can't reply. You might have screamed— but either way, your words are cut short as she leans closer in. The points of her teeth clip on the sides of your neck and ear as she barks at you. It's all you can do to catch your breath, to try and see again through the blinding pain, to keep your composure.

At this rate, she's not going to need to spike a drink to completely rob me of my senses.

"I'm not trying to kill you. I'm not asking for you to forsake anything. You've got one fucking job, can't even get the balls to do it— and you're questioning me?!"

Your words spill out, as quickly as you're able, as she starts pulling again.

"I don't know if y-you're lying or— or if it's been so long for you- with other demons that you've f-forgotten— but you've already been playing with far—!! M-Mercy—! Crazier— crazier demons! If their revelry was a-any indication of what th-they liked—! Stop, please—"

Her answer is immediate and dripping with so much promise that you don't question she won't stop until both of your arms are dislocated, or you can't control yourself any longer.

"No. I want you to say it."

"Remigius, I know— I'm not even close to being that crazy— M-Mercy—!"

"What the fuck do you call this, then? You've made a huge spectacle of yourself, Daddy, and I know this is far from the first time. Do I really need to keep pulling?"

"Yes~! I mean— no! No! At least— I mean— okay, I'm crazy in a c-completely different way—"

"There it is. Go on!"

"I d-don't want you to s-stop— Mercy, Remigius— but I— I need you to understand— I would never hurt someone like that— not for why— why you're thinking—"

The succubus actually lets up on your shoulders, slowly relieving the tension, relaxing the chain, letting you breathe, letting you try to think of anything chaste enough to keep your mind and body from spilling over.

"That's interesting. You even sicker than I thought?"

You try to close your eyes, to catch your breath, to get any sort of relief, but a hand grasps onto your face firmly, stealing your attention back instantly.

"Oh no. We're just getting started. Don't you fucking dare."

"N-no, Remi— I— I mean to say— I have a proposition—"

It's difficult to speak with her white-gold and utterly immaculate hands so close to you. You jerk your head away, as best as your able. The fire in your green eyes is lit with so much desperation that she actually pauses to let you finish.

(1/3)
>>
>>3942331
"You can— you want to get creative, right?"

"This is more like it. What do you have in mind?"

"Yech has— instilled a new appreciation for sport in me. Gambling. Games. We'll roll some dice— we can flip a coin— it doesn't matter. You choose. But—"

You actually have the demon's full attention.

"Whoever wins the gamble..."

She hangs on your last words, leaning in slightly, her breath hitching.

"...gets a punch in."

There's a long pause between you two.

She punches you, right under your chest, knocking the wind completely out of your sails. A fair amount of blood comes up, the oxygen in your lungs goes out, and all light in the room seems to be replaced with flecks of gold and spots of candlelight.

The demon's light weight lets off of your lap, and you instantly try to keel over, only pulling harder at the chain behind you.

It's almost more than you can stand. You're reminded, acutely, of hiding under the rubble in the abandoned church of Mercy, so overwhelmed that you could scarcely think or see. It's all you can do to try to stop moving, to listen to the distant voice of a demon whining and groaning over your poor attempts to breathe.

"You've got to be fucking kidding me. This guy is hopeless— lucky I can't say no—"

Before you can even start to regain your composure, the demon is sitting on you again. She's altogether too eager to run her hands along your torso, pressing her fingers deep into the blossoming bruises, holding onto your sides, dancing along the bandages and poking happily at your frame.

Each motion is agonizingly perfect and you can't fathom lasting more than a few more seconds.

Her weight shifts, slightly, on your lap, as you bite your lip, begging, "M-Mercy, Remigius. Please. I—"

The succubus actually complies, pulling back, cooing and murmuring at you and easing up on the physical assault.

"That's better. Let's fucking play, then."

There's a gold coin being held in front of your face. It's blurry, but the head is being shown to you, plainly. It's of an old king, bearing an uncanny resemblance to the drawings you saw in Ostedholm's library.

"Top..."

She flips it around. The backside is of an hourglass, vaguely evocative of the Church of Time.

"...or bottom, Daddy? Oh and don't worry— I'll let your arm loose if you need it."

You almost open your mouth to protest, but Remigius places a finger to your lips, silencing you briefly.

"This is way too boring, so let's make this more interesting."

There's a strong urge to bite her finger off, but you try to show some decency, and merely lean back. Your vision is clearing enough to see the excitement in her vacant eyes and golden flesh.

(2/3)
>>
>>3942332
"Whoever wins the coin toss gets to add an additional condition. It's gotta be physical. None of this I win and you let me go, nonsense. We'll drink, and eat, and I'll even fucking beat you to death if that's what you really want. We'll go 'til the night's out, or you can't go anymore."

You almost move to speak, but Remigius grinds herself against you again, stealing your protest away completely.

"I know you won't last longer than me, Daddy. If I win the toss, I punch you again, and you don't show any restraint. Make as much noise as you want."

> (The majority vote will decide the outcome of this vote for both sets of options. Pick one from each category.)

>A) You're going to go with...
>1) Heads.
>2) Tails.

>B) If you win the toss, Remigius has to...
>1) Drink a sedative. You determine the ingredients, and she has to have the entire thing. Not enough to knock her out, but more than enough to take her edge off.
>2) Pull her next punch. If you can't take her edge off, you'll put her on it instead.
>3) Let both of your arms free. You aren't going anywhere. You just want to be able to defend yourself.
>4) Write-in.
>>
>>3942334
A
>>2) Tails.
B
>>4) Write-in.
Has to bind one of her own arms to a seat or what have you, will hopefully get her off of you and help even the odds a bit
>>
>>3942340
This, but instead of binding it she has to break her own arm.
>>
>>3942334
>A2
>B1
>>
>>3942334
>A) You're going to go with...
>2) Tails.
>B) If you win the toss, Remigius has to...
>this >>3942340
>>
>>3942331
>"Remigius— I think you're wrong."
>"What the fuck did you say to me—"
Would Remigius unironically belt out the Corcaea equivalent of the Navy Seal Pasta? I didn't have her pegged as that sort of girl. Wait no, she's the one doing the pegging, nevermind.
>>
>>3942374
Thou scoundrel, perhaps hadst thou known what apocalyptic fury thy "clever" jests were to bring upon thee thou wouldst have held thy tongue. But thou couldst not, nor did not, and now thou art paying the due price of thy actions, fool. I shall defecate fury upon thee and thou shall flounder within it. Thou art truly smote, knave.

Really though, she seems to be exhibiting a fair amount of discipline, given what a high-tier succubus she is. The whole pasta would be a bit much.

>>3942340
>>3942343
>>3942347
>>3942369
Looks like tails unanimously, and we're going to go with the write-in.

Writing now!
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3942418
Of course, 1 will be heads, 2 will be tails.

May the Gods have Mercy on this coin toss.
>>
>>3942420
Tails always wins 50.07 % of the time
>>
>>3942420
Rekt. Yech is gonna be so proud of Rick for this one, if he lives to return!
>>
>>3942428
>>3942439
>>3942420
"Nnnnn- fine, fine, that's fine-! Will you get off of me—?"

"Not so fast. What are your terms, Daddy?"

"You'll— you'll get off of me, and bind one of your arms down. To the s-seat, or what have you— make it fast—"

"You are fun. Alright."

The coin is flipped with a perfect arc, straight above you both. The demon shouts, "Call it!"

"Tails!"

She catches the item, covering the object for only a moment to gloat.

"I mean it couldn't be more obvious that you were a bottom, Daddy, but honestly, being so bold about it, even for me—"

The backside of the coin reflects the demon's pseudo-radiance back onto her crestfallen face. She sneers.

You won.

"Lucky you."

With no small measure of irritation, the succubus peels herself off of your lap, coming around your back to unfasten the restraint around your wrist.

She, of course, leaves the shackle and all of the chain's weight on the fractured side.

You roll the loosened and fairly hale arm for a moment, not waiting another second before striking the demon clean across the face.

Your absolute lack of hesitation seems to send her reeling far faster than the certain pain you caused her. It's hard to not hiss, to relish the sting across your knuckles from contacting the metal with such certainty. Though your fractured shoulder is screaming from the sudden motion, you take even more pleasure in seeing that you left an impression in the gold. Your hands are bleeding again, but you can't be bothered to care.

"Thank you, Remigius. You didn't have to even the odds for me."

She wipes a trail of reddened gold from her lips, glaring at you with so much fire in her eyes that you nearly draw back. In an instant, Remigius is stalking across the room. You can feel the searing hatred from even several yards away, her back turned, fishing around for some sort of restraint.

The succubus returns, sitting across from you as provocatively as possible. With a flourish, she pulls out a studded leather bracelet. It's caked in rubies, diamonds, and she goes to drag the item across you. You grab as firmly as you can onto her wrist with your free hand, taking in her frustration with righteous satisfaction.

"No, Remigius. You're lucky I didn't ask you to break your arm. This is going straight on, and then we're playing again."

"Shut the fuck up. Condescending piece of shit. This is fucking bullshit."

In a few fluid motions, Remigius snaps the restraint to one of several loops in the floor, and then to her own wrist. You hadn't noticed initially, with the low candle light and everything else that's been occupying your attention, but there's quite a few hooks and chains interspersed between the fur rugs.

To your delight, the succubus leaves absolutely no slack in the chain that's now tight against the band around her wrist.

(1/2)
>>
>>3942471
As if to make a point, she pulls with extreme strength at the chain. The metal screeches in complaint, but her hand and wrist stays a safe distance away from you.

"There. Happy?"

"Rarely, if ever. This is a start, though."

"You fucking sicken me."

"The feeling is mutual."

"Are we still punching each other?"

"I'm not complaining— but you tell me, Remigius."

"You fucking bet. ...and I'm getting some drinks in you if I win this. I'm going to make you hurt, Daddy, and I don't want you to fucking like it."

"Your taste isn't nearly as good as Yech's. I've already been disappointed—"

She practically screams in frustration, bringing her legs together to try and kick you. You deflect the blow as best as you're able, hissing at the motion. You can't help but wonder how much damage is being done to the left side of your body, but your musings are once again interrupted.

"Shut the FUCK up. We'll see how much you want to talk when I'm through with you. Where did I put that fucking coin..."

The succubus feels herself for a moment, before pulling the item out from her cleavage. Glaring at you, she makes a scene of licking the silver and gold off of the item before waving it in your face.

"...Mercy."

"Bottoms up, right, Daddy?! Let's see what else you got. Come on. You can think of something much worse for me, can't you? I'm not pulling my fucking punches either!"

It's apparent that you're locked into tails, but you still have lots of room to decide how to tilt this situation in your favor.

Wait until Yech hears about this.

>A) Tell her to assume a less provocative form.
>1) Have her take on her real appearance. You can handle it.
>2) Have her assume the form she took on stage earlier. It's better than nothing.
>3) A normal looking woman would be better than what you're trying to keep your eyes off of now.

>B) Have Remigius match whatever you wind up drinking tonight. You can pray for your luck to hold out, but you'd prefer some insurance.

>C) Request that she get you what's left of the ice, some clean water, and a moment to pray. You need to keep your head together.

>D) Write-in
>>
>>3942477
>B) Have Remigius match whatever you wind up drinking tonight. You can pray for your luck to hold out, but you'd prefer some insurance.
>>
>>3942477
>B) Have Remigius match whatever you wind up drinking tonight. You can pray for your luck to hold out, but you'd prefer some insurance.
Somewhere out there, a skeleton lord grins to himself. "That's my man right there. Holding his own against that slut. What a champ. I wish I had friends like him back when I was alive." Then he downs multiple vodka martinis (shaken not stirred).
>>
>>3942477
>A1
>>
>>3942477
>>B) Have Remigius match whatever you wind up drinking tonight. You can pray for your luck to hold out, but you'd prefer some insurance.

I kinda want A1 but this is the better option for max *fun*
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3942486
>>3942489
>>3942504
>>3942508
I'm so proud of you guys. Yech would be, too. Locking the vote here and rolling before I go take care of some stuff, should be able to write in another half hour or so. Going to go with the majority here for B. Just a reminder, you can totally write-in previous prompts if I drop them.

1 is heads, 2 is tails!
>>
>>3942513
What luck! Back, writing now.
>>
>>3942574
"Neither am I, Remigius. If I win, you have to match anything that I drink tonight. Anything. ...you wanted to have some fun, right?"

"Shut the fuck up. Let's do this."

Another flip.

The demon's face could not be any more distraught as the coin lands. The hourglass glares back at her.

It's another success.

You grin, possibly broader than you ever have, as you wind up and deal out another punch square across the demon's face. The force of the blow knocks her head aside, a few flecks of gold and blood catching the air as she's nearly knocked over.

Mercy, this feels good. I could barely wield a mace without Flesh before. ...I really need to thank Yech.

Remigius pulls tightly on the chain around her wrist, reflexively going to rub at the site of the injury and finding herself entirely unable to. Your smile broadens. It may be in part from the blossoming pain in your shoulder, your bleeding knuckles and the ache in your back— but you know it's mostly from your success.

Spitting out another wad of blood, Remigius whips her head around and arcs the crimson towards your face. Your reflexes are way too slow from the amount of pain you're in to dodge aside, but you happily wipe the spittle away. The continued smile feels terribly unnatural, but you can't help yourself.

"Do you think you have any vodka? Martinis? Something fruity, maybe— Yech seemed to not be very fond of anything lighter..."

The succubus wipes the last of the blood from her face, licking her hands and looking at you so murderously that it puts any other demon you've seen to shame. Every word that falls from her drips with the same bloody intent.

"You're so fucking full of yourself— I'm going to fucking ruin you, Daddy. I'm getting the fucking funnel and packing you with half of that entire bar when I win. You're still a mortal. I can do this all day! You fucking bet I'll match you! I HOPE IT FUCKING KILLS YOU!"

Your smile wanes very rapidly. A large part of you wants to pray.

"So what'll it be then?! I know you don't have the fucking balls to do anything more than hit a woman!"

>A) If you win, Remigius has to take on the form of someone with an even lower constitution than you. Her body seems to be responding normally to the damage you're inflicting on her. Maybe you can actually outpace her.

>B) No matter what, the demon cannot force anything on you. You're going along with her games willingly. You have enough self control and discipline to deal with whatever she can dish out, but it's going to be on your terms.

>C) She's going to have to assume her actual form. You'll happily lay waste to a demon that isn't pretending to be your Goddess or your friend.

>D) Write-in.
>>
>>3942617
>>A) If you win, Remigius has to take on the form of someone with an even lower constitution than you. Her body seems to be responding normally to the damage you're inflicting on her. Maybe you can actually outpace her.
>>
>>3942617
>>A) If you win, Remigius has to take on the form of someone with an even lower constitution than you. Her body seems to be responding normally to the damage you're inflicting on her. Maybe you can actually outpace her.

yeah this seems better than anything I could write in, at least for our current situation.
>>
>>3942617
>A) If you win, Remigius has to take on the form of someone with an even lower constitution than you. Her body seems to be responding normally to the damage you're inflicting on her. Maybe you can actually outpace her.
When are we gonna show her the Mercy, guys?
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3942624
>>3942630
>>3942645
Oh god the fucking stakes. Unanimous, here we go. Vote is locked.

1 is heads, 2 is tails.
>>
>>3942675
Wow we are just sweeping Rem aren't we?
>>
>>3942675
Praise the Gods
>>
>>3942679
>>3942682
There was only a 12.5% chance of getting this sweep. You guys are on fire. My poor heart, though. Congrats! Writing now!
>>
>>3942688
Draw Richard with his eyes closed, smiling proudly with a pure joy he has only felt a single digit amount of times in his life, because of both the Gods giving him his third victory coin flip AND the renewed pain of the manacle on his fractured shoulder, as he pulls himself forward and launches his third bloody knuckle holy fist across him straight into the face of a wide-eyed and open-mouthed Mercy-Gwen Remigius.
>>
>>3942700
You know what? I will. Next update will take a bit longer because boy howdy do I take a long time to draw, but let's fucking go! Sketch with the next post.
>>
File: Censored Remi and Richard.png (2.02 MB, 3491x1047)
2.02 MB
2.02 MB PNG
>>3942700
Heavily censored, we're a blue board! Discord has the full pic.

As requested! Took even longer than I expected. I have work tomorrow morning, so this will be the last update until at least tomorrow evening. As usual, I'll get at least 1-2 updates out though.

Writing now!
>>
>>3943155
"Hit a woman? Remigius— if I win this toss, you're taking on the form of someone with an even lower constitution than I have. Surely, you can change form again?"

"Daddy, I can be whatever you need me to be, but there's no fucking chance that you're winning this again! No one is that lucky. Not even your holy ass."

You both eagerly watch as the coin flips through the air, landing perfectly on Remigius' outstretched hand. She slaps the metal onto her arm, revealing it without hesitation.

The hourglass beams back at you.

"May the Gods be praised."

There's no doubt that you're wearing the biggest grin of your life.

"Wait. Wait just a—"

You dig your wrist into the restraint on your damaged arm, pulling to better reach the succubus. The anticipation that courses through your abused limb only makes the movement sweeter. You swing with absolute conviction, slamming your bloodied fist straight into the demon's face, smearing your victory across her immaculate cheek. You're so utterly delighted by your success that you can scarcely see past the blooming pain in your shoulder, the residual throbbing in your chest, the wounds on your hands, or the gold glinting back at you.

The succubus reels, holding a hand to her face as she nurses the damage. It's obvious that her pain tolerance is utterly eclipsed by yours, and she has to take a moment to spit out the blood you've produced. Her breath is heavy, her chest heaving, obviously taking little gratification in your works or your absolute satisfaction.

Her eyes finally dart up to you, the sockets of starlight bearing so much hatred and frustration that you begin to question what you're even doing.

I came here to show this demon Mercy— and I'm beating her half to death?

There's a familiar bend of metal and liquid, as the form before you finally diminishes. The white gold and silver begins to pool and shape into something much more akin to a healthy skin color. Celegwen's similarity, the eerie resemblance to Mercy's light, the pearls and all of her perfection warps into a vaguely humanoid form for several moments.

It occurs to you that she may be struggling to decide on how to present herself.

"...anything is fine, Remigius. So long as you won't be able to kill me so easily."

(1/2)
>>
>>3943193
The flesh and metal twists and pull into the most androgynous form you've ever seen. A smooth, thin, straight and young humanoid figure with stark red hair congeals onto the chair in front of you, with its wrist still encased in Remigius' shackle. You know it must be the same demon, though the radiance has left its voice, and all traces of Celegwen's imitation are gone. There's an inherent weakness to the demon's speech, and you find yourself questioning what you're doing once more as their form becomes still, pulling their arms to their chest, covering the flat and lithe skin with meager arms. It's still decidedly a woman, but she is so devoid of any strength or beauty that it's difficult to label her as such.

"Fuck you. Fine. We won't drink. I'll settle for lacing your fucking food. If I win, you're eating whatever I do with the supplies Yech sent you with."

This demon absolutely doesn't know when to quit. What's wrong with her? Why is she making this so difficult?

"Remigius— we don't have to do this. I came here to show you Mercy, not to beat you, and not to make you suffer even further—"

"Just shut the fuck up. You have no fucking idea what you're doing. Idonea is even more naive than you are, to think that you're worth more than the trash you wear around your neck. I don't need your fucking help. You don't know the first thing about what I need. You're fighting everything I want to do, tooth and fucking nail, and you only stop when I'm making you feel bad? How can you be so self-centered—?!"

The demon moves to swing a fist at you, but uses the hand shackled to the bench without thinking. Her arm is pulled back, hard, and she nearly screams in frustration.

"You're a fucking idiot! Make your bet! I've got you 'til morning to spoil, and I'll fucking show her just how useless you are."

>A) Gambling with this demon has not only tamed her outbursts, but restrained her and taken her down to a form that you can handle. Keep playing, and try to maneuver the situation back towards something the Gods would be proud of.
>1) If you win, neither of you are permitted to hit each other for the rest of the night. Spin it however you have to, to convince the demon that you're still playing the game.
>2) If you win, Remigius has to show you the form she actually wants to take. She's clearly got issues regarding her appearance. Maybe you can at least help with this.

>B) Forfeit the game.
>1) Accept whatever punishment Remigius deems fit. She's said over and over again that she wants to get her way. She may merely be a brat, but maybe this is all she really needs.
>2) Put your foot down, and insist that you stop fighting. She's substantially weaker than you are right now. You could likely keep her down if you really needed to, to at least talk some sense into her.

>C) Write-in.
>>
Hmm.. thoughts on this?
>>
>>3943195
A2
>>
>>3943195
A2
>>
>>3943195
... I was thinking of instead of forfeiting , offering to let her give up , but I doubt she'd take that offer anyway sooo...

>A2
>>
>>3943195
>A1

The gods aren't proud of this? We're dunking on a demon
>>
>>3943195
>A) Gambling with this demon has not only tamed her outbursts, but restrained her and taken her down to a form that you can handle. Keep playing, and try to maneuver the situation back towards something the Gods would be proud of.
>2) If you win, Remigius has to show you the form she actually wants to take. She's clearly got issues regarding her appearance. Maybe you can at least help with this.
I wonder how long it's been since someone has asked what she wants?
inb4 she screeches at us in defiance that we know what she wants
>>
>>3943195
>A2
>>
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>3943313
>>3943317
>>3943336
>>3943375
>>3943409
>>3943410
This is so unanimous I'm going to call it here and roll. Have work until 7pm est but I'll be sure to update tonight. Let's see what we got!
>>
Well that was an absolute failure.
>>3943285
Feel free to still discuss while I'm gone. Even though the vote is locked I still usually incorporate discussion.
>>
>>3943414
Oh no our streak
>>
>>3943409
>YOU KNOW WHAT I WANT
>I WANT VANILLA INSTEAD OF /D/
>>
Finally home! Writing in just a minute. We're rapidly approaching the end of page 10, so I'll be sure to announce when the thread is closed clearly.
>>
>>3943436
>>3943742
>>3943880

"I don't know how long it's been since someone has showed you any kindness, Remigius—"

There's a harsh bark from the succubus that you might mistake for a laugh. She doesn't interrupt again as you continue.

"...but I would like for you to take whichever form you wish, if I win again."

"That's so generous of you, Daddy. So generous. Let's see if your luck holds out, you piece of shit."

With significantly less grace than before, the wiry demon tosses the coin into the air, catching it on her arm. As soon as it lands, she greedily reveals it, baring her pointed teeth at you with so much satisfaction that you immediately begin to wonder if you will leave her company alive.

The King's face leers at you both.

A loss.

You tense, eagerly anticipating a blow.

Nothing hits you.

The demon gestures broadly. She's obviously casting a spell.

You look with abject horror to the bag that Yech gifted to you, as it careens across the floor, pulled by Remigius' incantation. Several rugs are knocked aside before it slides to a stop, adjacent to the reclining chair you're both situated on.

Still gesturing with her shackled hand, the succubus seems to conjure a mixture of blood and flesh out of the thin air. The liquid and viscera courses rapidly into your belongings.

"My journal—! Remigius! Stop—!"

"Shut your fucking mouth. It's only getting on the food. Good thing I don't have to match this, hmm?"

The demon starts to dig through your things. Her shark-like grin cuts across her entire face with a distinctly inhuman viciousness. You realize why, as she removes enough food from your bag to easily feed you and your companions through the week. The small gifts menacingly drip with red fibers and the promise of something far more sinister than their original intent.

Remigius' grin is consuming her face.

"Looks like Yech really did help me out."

"What do you even want with me, Remigius? I can't touch you. I can't show you Mercy if you won't let me help you. I can hardly even talk to you, let alone—"

"You can hardly talk to anyone, you dense piece of shit. You'll talk all fucking day about th—"

The demon's words catch in her throat. She stops her gesturing for a moment, bringing her hands to her mouth as if she were to vomit.

You try to finish her sentence for her, cringing, hating the accusation but altogether too uncomfortable to not finish her sentence.

"...about the Gods."

There's a gasp as she pulls away, a pallor on her face, and so much fury in her eyes that you draw back.

"FUCK you, Dick. Fuck you! You know it, too! You know that you'll blather on about yourself and— you know— everything else, you'll preach and preach and never fucking do a goddamn thing you're supposed to you FUCKING hypocrite!"

(1/7. Strap in.)
>>
>>3944212
Shaking once more, she resumes the spell. What little muscle is in her incredibly thin limbs catches in the light. She moves with so much intensity you expect every motion to be an attack. The sheer amount of time she's taking to cast has your nerves even more on edge than the piercing pain through your shoulder, chest and back.

"You're too fucking eager for punishment, Daddy. You act like you're the fucking victim in all this, but you just keep digging in, taking more and MORE and never fucking KNOWING when to quit! You come into my fucking home and act like you're doing me a favor?! You think you're fit for ANYTHING?! I'll show you what a fucking glutton you are. I'll show you how unfit you are for anything."

One of the rations is shoved at you.

"You say you're a man of your word, but that's all you've fucking got going for you. I can't believe that you think you rate taking on Idonea's shit. You can't even fucking stop yourself from playing with a succubus— a fucking slut— I mean, just fucking look at me! You can't stop looking at me, and you won't stop for a second to ask about your friends?! You left them with me without a fucking fight! You haven't even tried to get out of here— you didn't even ask if they were okay!"

"I haven't— you've been beating me half to death tonight, Remigius. I've been terrified for my friends. For everyone's safety. There's never any Time, there's never any chance—"

Remigius grabs firmly onto your wrist, making no effort to moderate herself, her nails digging into your skin as she forces a block of blood into your fingers.

"You call that an excuse? This is a fucking sedative, you piece of shit. This is a fucking excuse. You're not leaving here tonight. Not on my fucking watch. You're not hurting anyone else but me."

The item in your hand is trembling. Either the constant pain you've endured through the evening is making your tremor worse, or you're too worked up to keep your hands still. The deep crimson reminds you so much of the tissue around the demon's domain that you don't doubt it's made of her very Flesh.

"I'm actually going to kill you if you don't hold up your end of the bargain, Dick. Eat. I know it's going to hurt. I know you aren't going to like this. You wanted to show me— THEN STOP FUCKING STARING AT IT!"

You don't want to fight her. You came here to do something for her. To show her Mercy.

You keep your word.

You take the demon's offering.

(2/7)
>>
>>3944214
https://youtu.be/ICjD3f-8SXE

You cough through the pain, the sensation of glass, though you make no effort to moderate your intake. Feverishly, you try to get the agony over with as quickly as possible.

Your head starts swimming halfway through the item. It's obviously pumped full of something meant to dull your senses. Your vision blurs, and by the time you've struggled through the last of the wafer, you can tell something is horrifically wrong.

Everything slows. The pain subsides, as everything that isn't crawling and dripping seems to dull. Several minutes or seconds or hours pass. The room tilts.

The red light and candles littering the room don't seem to diminish, but they've been static since the succubus lit them.

You certainly aren't aware of the punch thrown at you until several seconds after it contacts. Sluggishly, you lean into the blow, looking up slowly to your attacker.

That's right. This is still a demon.
Yech is very exceptional, isn't he?
Why did he help her?

"Good. It's working. You can still hear me, can't you?"

Is she just trying to turn me against everyone? Myself? What is this even about? Why am I here?

"You can still understand me?"

"Why...? What? Yes?"

"I heard you were a fucking lightweight. Guess some things don't change. You sure as shit don't. This is good, though. You'll be able to actually listen."

Another block of flesh is pushed at you. The blood is somehow even thicker.

"Here's something sexy, Daddy, you'll fucking love it. An anaphrodisiac. Isn't this great? Even I don't want to touch you anymore."

"...what?"

"Eat."

"N-no. You said—"

"I said you're eating whatever I do with the supplies Yech sent you with, and you're keeping your fucking word."

"Y-you... could just— give it up— you don't..."

"Yeah, I sure want to have you beat and humiliate me in my own fucking domain and then not get mine. Fuck off. Are you going to keep your word, or do I have to make you do your job, too?"

I've been trying to contend with a demon.
Am I not doing the right thing?
How could the Gods not look favorably on me for this?

I thought this was my enemy. They are my enemy, aren't they?
What am I doing?

You realize your fractured shoulder and bent arm is finally being unshackled.

"Use both hands if you have to. Even you should be able to concentrate after finishing this. And I do mean all of this. I've literally got all night, Daddy, and you're keeping your fucking hands to yourself for the rest of it. Got it?"

"...Remigius, I never—"

"No. No more talking. You're keeping your mouth full and listening for once in your fucking life. I swear— I will force it all down your mutilated fucking throat myself if I have to."

(3/7)
>>
>>3944215
The succubus seems to lean in. Her form is horrifically distorted, blurred and moving altogether too slowly and quickly and she's right in front of you. Her words seem clear, but everything else is entirely incoherent.

"Don't make me touch you again."

It's easier to swallow more of your promises than it is to digest the implications of the demon's words.

You keep eating.

Remigius stacks the rest of the food next to you, as you feel the pleasure, the relief, the frustration— everything that's been building up over the course of the evening fading fast. It's replaced with insufferable discomfort. The edges of the room are sharp and blurred, her red hair searing against the crimson backdrop that makes your dry eyes and throat somehow burn even more intensely.

The fire in your chest and stomach is practically the only heat left in you, by the time you cough through the last of the ration. You're unbearably full, and want to let everything out, to get some form of relief. Remembering that your hand is unshackled, you try to sit more comfortably, to at least loosen your belt, to lean back, to do something to ease the clawing fear that you'll actually die if you keep going.

Remigius looks to you. You look back, unable to read the expression on her face, but her exposed and hazy flesh at least seems to do nothing for you.

"I didn't say you could fucking stop. This one is going to kick up your appetite. I know that you can't feel it— but your body sure as shit will. It'll get easier. Eat. Listen."

"I can't—"

The sound of splitting wood cuts through the comfortable haze that's settled into the corners of your mind. It takes you a long moment to react, looking slowly over to see that the succubus has gripped so tightly onto the edge of the lounge chair that she's splintered a handful of the furniture off.

"If you tell me one more time that you can't do something—"

There's an afterimage of her form moving towards you. With no relief, no wave of pleasure or pain or anything more than the deep pressure against the back of your spine, Remigius pushes you against the back of the chair. With one hand she swipes off your belt, and with the other puts a hand to your throat.

"Last warning. Listen. And you don't get to fucking know what's in the rest if you don't. I'm not giving you the fucking option to stop, Daddy."

The hand around your throat is unbearable. The sensation of seeds in your lungs is making taking any breath utterly impossible, and the moment she pulls away you find yourself doubled over, coughing hard.

Your distress is interrupted by something being shoved into your mouth.

"Yech's too fucking caught up in wallowing to focus on anything that fucking matters. Idonea's too fucking old to speak straight. You scared the girls so badly they won't even look at you. Beltoro's too fucking crazy to be worth a damn. I want to HELP YOU, YOU ASSHOLE—"

(4/7)
>>
>>3944219
The hand that isn't around your throat is forcing down more of the rations. You want to vomit, to cough, to do something to get out what you can only hope is merely poison, but your limbs aren't cooperating. Every movement seems to take an eternity. Breathing is impossible until you take in the entirety of the drugs, the blood, the meat— so you do. Something buzzing in the back of your head keeps any pain at bay, but the suffocation is unbearable. You get down the worst of it, enough to plead.

"M-Mercy—! Remigius, stop—!"

Remigius instantly backs off of you, pulling away so hard and fast that your head reels. Whatever it was that she's fed you has your nerves on fire, as everything in the room seems to pull and push away from itself with far more speed than necessary. Your body isn't cooperating at all, but you shakily manage to raise a hand, to try and push her away.

Your arm touches the thin air, swiping at an after-image of her body. You double over again, trying to cough up something, anything, but the demon is back on you.

"Don't you fucking dare try and touch me. Touch yourself and your gifts but don't you dare touch me again. I tried to give you a fucking chance—"

She must have taken off her shackle at some point. You realize it long after it makes sense to, unable to think. You try to block out the sensation, the crushing grip around your throat, the way she's pinning you and forcing more of the excess into you.

You want to pray, but no one is listening.

"Have a fucking depressant, Daddy. You seem to like boozing, and I know Yech's probably ruined that for you by now, too. Isn't it a good thing I've got a way with these things? Isn't it a good fucking thing that at least I know your limits?! Better fucking swallow, Daddy, I wouldn't want you to die on me now—"

This is worse than death. I came down here to die— I hoped that the Gods would see fit to not turn from me if I fell in their service— but what am I doing, really? Wandering in the darkness until something tries to put me down? How can I call myself a man of the Gods when I've never used Their blessings responsibly? Is this really how I want to serve Them?

"Take another fucking anesthetic! You think you're hot shit for barely feeling what we do to you?! Have you EVER stopped to think that all that pain is a sign to FUCKING STOP?! That maybe you're so desensitized to it because you don't know when to quit?! Maybe if you listened to yourself, your bitches, fucking ANYONE OR ANYTHING AT ALL you'd get some fucking answers!"

Mercy and Flesh granted me reprieve from my pain, didn't they?

The way that you're suffocating for air is an immediate reminder that you've had no respite from your pain, in any capacity.

Things have only gotten worse, haven't they?

(5/7)
>>
>>3944227
"Don't you think it's a little fucking telling that the only person you'll listen to— that will listen TO you— is an antisocial demon with a drinking problem?! Don't you fucking think that it's time to wake up, Daddy?!"

It would have been too easy for this to be a terrible Dream.

You do want to wake up. You try to stop thinking, to not focus on how much is being forced into you, but the demon's words bring you back to the present moment with crushing clarity.

It's the only thing that is clear.

"ONE LEFT! I saved the best for last. It's a fucking trip, Daddy. You still with me?! Go ahead and fucking swallow, you slut, I know you love it—"

I'm still here, aren't I? This is still real. Mercy, I can't really feel much of anything. I don't want to feel anything. Maybe I could die here. It wouldn't be so bad. Celegwen and Ofelia would never have to know what happened here. I wouldn't have to explain. No confessions, no tears, no Vengeance—

"Don't go choking on me now! We've still got time to play. At least a few more hours! I want to see how well Yech's fucked you over. Don't go thinking you can use Idonea's little toy after everything you've done. Not after this. You've got your work cut out for you, Daddy!"

Didn't Celegwen try to warn me? Why have I ignored her and Ofelia for so long? Why have I never made time for them? Why have I never pushed them, or anyone, for that matter? I don't even know them, and I've risked everything for them, and they aren't here, no one is coming. I'm never going to see Ray again. I'm never going to see the sun. Why am I like this? What's wrong with me? Why do I keep trying?

"You and I are going to have a little heart-to-heart. That's right, go on, keep swallowing— I know it doesn't hurt much now, but it sure as shit will later. You're going to go back to your fucking friends and have to deal with everything you've done, won't you? Isn't that what you do best? Apologize, and make excuses, and try to clean up your fucking mess?!"

No. I don't do anything well at all. We talk in circles. I learn nothing. I'm a failure.

You're fairly certain if you have to eat anything else, you'll die. You must be trying to say something, to put up a fight, to do anything to protest, but Remigius actually throws aside the last of her patience. The food goes with it. She leans back, waving a hand over your face.

You're entirely aware that you can't even track the movement.

The pressure within your abdomen is so overwhelming that every part of you wants to retch. A hand covers your mouth, plugging your nose, cutting off your supply of oxygen once again. The nausea is replaced with panic, and Remigius leans even closer.

(6/7)
>>
>>3944229
"You fucking sicken me. You're honest, Dick, you're fucking honest alright. You've shown me plain as day that you're a preacher, a gambler, a glutton, a masochist, a killer— AND YET NEVER— NOT EVEN ONCE— have you actually shown me what I NEED! I wanted you to be everything that you were supposed to and you're a fucking loser, Dick. You're fucking pathetic. You're weak and can't resist the very first fucking temptation that crosses your path— you're choking on it, Daddy! You're drowning! You're edging on your fucking sin!"

I need air. Mercy, I need to breathe. I can't get her off of me.

"You can't turn into a demon because you're already something far worse, Daddy. You're so eager to ignore everyone, to just keep moving, to never once stop and question what you're doing. You won't talk, you won't listen. You'll turn a blind eye to everyone trying to help you and be totally content to have them use you. You'll label me, you'll kill my friends, you'll do what you think is right and push and push and PUSH everyone away and think nothing will ever fucking give?!"

She pulls back, finally. Your lungs and chest are burning so intensely that it almost rivals the pain in your stomach. You're gasping for air, grasping for release, to push her away, to try and get some space, but the demon is still on top of you. She seems to have finally ran out of food to force into you, but she's still pushing her hatred, shoving her spite into your skull.

You can only see red.

Something in the last of the rations is taking the world out from under you.

"You don't deserve Idonea's gift. You don't deserve to have me. You don't deserve a Catalyst, or a blessing, or even a curse. You're going to get what you deserve. So let's take a fucking trip together, Daddy. "

Remigius sounds like she's crying. She may have been this entire time. It's very hard to say— you're struggling to breathe, to get her off of you, to escape. You're being pulled to your feet. You can scarcely move. Every step is absolutely agonizing, and you try to clutch at your sides, to not vomit, to not immediately collapse.

"Let's see if you're the one worth saving."

She keeps you standing, practically dragging you away from the restraints, out of the room. Remigius kicks open the door, back out into the labyrinth of her domain. There's a red light, and the sound of countless demons rioting.

"Didn't you know that's what this is all about?"

(END THREAD.)
>>
>>3944231
With that demon of an update, we'll conclude the fourth thread of Catalyst Quest.

While we wind down to 404, feel free to ask questions, give feedback, critique or whatever else you want to share. It's been an absolute blast writing with you all and I can't wait for the next thread.

Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Catalyst%20Quest
Discord (Update notifications, art, music, etc): https://discord.gg/24cmNWp

As always, we'll resume within the next week, once we're off of page 10.

Thanks again you guys!
>>
Ooooooooh. That's some heavy fucking shit right there. A demon's words can cut deep, but even more so when they're right...
I don't have a great feeling about this, but whatever the outcome, I'm happy to be along for the ride. Thank you very much for running, Alaric and I hope you aren't too disappointed in us.
>>
Thanks for running, Alaric. Looking forward to the next one as always.

Fuck, that was real good. Things are undoubtedly going to go to shit from here, but it's real good nonetheless.
>>
>>3944251
>>3944254
You are very welcome you guys, it's been an absolute pleasure. I wouldn't have had things go any other way.

Lots to think about before the next thread, eh?
>>
man it feels like a lot of this is forced by the QM; Richard is progressing and learning just fine, all of this whining and angst is mostly unwarranted by this point
>>
>>3944497
You guys did nearly unanimously vote, time and time again, to act with so much neuroticism and psychopathy over the course of this thread (and arguably the entire quest) that it would have been utterly ridiculous for no one to respond to it in turn. I could break down over the course of the quest just how many times Richard's behavior has disintegrated, how many people he's ignored and how passive he's been towards any sort of positive change, but I hope that would be obvious by now. Literally the only positive thing that's happened to him besides being befriended by Ofelia and Celegwen has been teaming up with a demon. Yech is very well-intentioned and obviously a pleasure to be around, but that neither makes him a good influence, a reliable ally or someone that's there to aid Richard in learning anything.

I could be wrong, though. Maybe beating down Remigius when you came to her domain to help her was entirely well-adjusted. Maybe disregarding every single sign of when to stop, to show restraint, to use your own body, to practice your tenets, or any other indication through the narration was off-base. Maybe the prompts that I provided almost without fail to stop, to ask questions, to pray, to do something other than try to constantly manipulate and act violently were unanimously ignored not as a characterization of our protagonist, but something else entirely?

I know this is going to come across as very silly, but maybe it would help to think of Richard's actions from the perspective of literally anyone else.

If anything, maybe you should wonder why it's taken anyone this long to confront him directly about his behavior and mentality?

If our protagonist has been on a PTSD rollercoaster for a solid month without reprieve and would have had a miraculous turnaround of stabilization, healthy decisions and solid behavior before now, can you let me know when and why?
>>
>>3944504
This is the kind of post I was intending to provoke from you in saying what I did. Exactly as I planned it. Thanks for falling for that. Absolutely looking forward to next thread, you can count me on this train until the quest ends. Good shit.
>>
>>3944513
You know I can't resist the bait anon. Love you too, you psycho, and I'll see you in the next thread. Can't wait.



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