AzureKnight

Tales Of Shizuyama (Far-Eastern Monster Girl RP)

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Terauchi Temple

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^{@PaulHaynek@Enkryption@The Irish Tree@Restalaan@Rezod92@Crowvette@Nakushita@Hammerman}

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Shizuka was pleased to see that most of the taskforce members hadn't lost too much stride after the battle, and were already discussing their next move. Although, he was able to tell that some members, like Luna and Io, were quite fatigued. He wised that the force had a little more time to rest, but it appeared that wouldn't be the case.

He had returned from his "talk" with Alice, his heart a bit heavy to bid farewell to her and Carroll. He thought it'd be best to tell Takeshi and the others the news...

"Takeshi-dono," he said. "I'm glad you and everyone else seem to be fairing well. However, there's something that you and everyone else should know." He paused for a moment. "Alice-san and Carroll-chan seem to have left the taskforce, I can confirm because I sensed their chi fading further from the vicinity. Where they plan to go, I don't know, but I felt that you all should know regardless." Shizuka spoke so that everyone present could hear him.

"As for now, I would suggest that anyone who's too injured or tired from the recent attack should stay behind and recover for now. You'll be no good to anyone dead, so no need to push yourself." The ronin continued. "In addition, Ayu-san, I will accompany you on the Komatsu Bay operation. Io-san, Lili-chan, and I will join our talents together for this operation." He looked with a solemn expression. "Io-san, you probably want to hide it, but I can sense that you've used up a great deal of your chi in that battle. If you truly want to go, I won't stop you. But, you're going to need help with this. Plus, a being like yourself won't fare well under an anti-magic field, I'd hazard to guess."

Shizuka then turned to Lord Takeshi. "Takeshi-dono, I wish you and Kikyo-san the best of luck on liberating the imprisoned fighters."

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The Hangai sisters where relatively fine after the conflict, if still a bit anxious. It was bittersweet, it seemed like after aiding Yurine in the cemetery, they barely got any opportunity to rest in the time between then and the recent attack. The injures Hinami had received in the fight had already healed thanks to her biology, and Atsuha didn't expend that much magic either. They both listened as Shizuka explained that Alice and Carroll had left.

"Aww, the plant lady and the talking sword left? I hope they'll be ok." She said in an innocent, but melancholic tone.

"I'm sure she'll be fine, Nee-chan. She is a queen, after all, as she love to keep reminding us of." Atsuha said, attempting to cheer her up.

They listened to the group as they discussed their next strategy. Takeshi had decided to go with Kikyo in order to liberate the imprisoned warriors. She felt the young lord's hesitation and lack of confidence in his decision. It was as if something had compelled her to aid the lord in this case.

"Skars-kun," she said to her lover. "I feel that it would be best for us to aid Takeshi-san in his endeavor. If you feel your skills are best suited for another mission, I understand. My sister and I will be sure to take care while out."

The sisters then walked over to Takeshi and Kikyo. "Would you care to have us tag along, my young lord?" Atsuha said. She politely bowed to Kikyo. "Hello Kikyo-san, my name is Hangai Atsuha, it's a pleasure to meet you. All things considered, we hope to lend our aid in rescuing those prisoners."

"Same here! Oh, sorry! My name is Hangai Hinami, it's also a pleasure!" Hinami said, following suit with her sister, if a bit more clumsily.

"Kikyo-san, is there anything more you can tell us about the encampment that the prisoners are being held at? Warrior types, the surrounding layout?"

The Maids Guide to Demon Hunting

_{@Rune_Alchemist@Click This}

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Havershel Estate

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Lucrecia winced slightly at the sudden slash that brushed on her cheek, it happened so fast that she didn't even feel it at first. The demon maid she had rescued earlier was now useless to them, it's lifeless head rolling across the floor. Having now fully introducing himself proper, The lord was actually a lesser ranking demon in disguise this whole time. Lucrecia couldn't say that she was surprised, given everything that's led up to this.

"I suppose that's why none of our physical attacks phased you much. How typical of your kind to use your spouse as a sacrifice, for a monster that doesn't seem very grateful anyway." She said, wiping the blood on her cheek.

She then turn to Polina. "Polina, as much as it pains me to say it, the cazzo is right. Things have taken a turn for the worst. I'll go on ahead and meet up with the other team and inform them of the situation. Silxtratch, you said your name was? I guess it'd be within our best interest to work with you for now, but if you try anything, you'll end up just like that demon maid you decapitated..." She warned.

With that, Lucrecia began making her way toward the wife's chambers, determined to see this through. Not to mention to fulfill her bargain to Myrilla.

Magus Reaver: Scions of Sorcery

@Enkryption

The Bad Boy Boars

Pigs of Culture _______________________________________________ Difficulty: ⭐ Reward: 1000G Assigned Reavers Scarlett, Lupina NPC(s): ”Xashan” Inventory: None

Description The west back alleyways of The Republic are known to the locals and law enforcement as being the stomping grounds of a certain group of renegade Belua gang. They usually engage in common thievery, strong-arming the locals into their hair-brained schemes, and being general nuisances to the public. The local authorities would usually have no trouble in dealing with them, but because they’re so many of them it’s hard to stamp out their presence entirely. The local authorities have asked for assistance from Eon specifically to deal with them. Of note, the Belua that make up this gang all have characteristics similar to those of wild boars. Brun hovered a bit over Rana, as she read and showed the report. ”Ms. Rana, in this part of the report, you as the organizer would leave your personal notes in this section. These can be helpful little tips given from your personal pool of knowledge or experience. Sometimes, this is also filled in by other members of the staff, but it would fall to you by default.” ”Oh? I see. I understand…” Rana’s Notes "I’ve heard of this gang of cronies a few times. I’ve never paid any attention to them, only seeing them as a bunch of idiots with too much freetime on their hands. I personally feel that they should just take up jobs as construction workers or delivery men, just something that would make use of their brawny qualities as a means of contributing to society. Also, it’s obvious that the local authorities have more interests in other cases and are just dumping this on us so that they don’t have to deal with it. Hmph! After all, it’s not like the Association would entertain such nonsense! "

”Well…I see you two gals are wide awake now…” Xashan said, wearing an exasperated but nonetheless friendly smile on his face. He wasn’t awfully fazed by the ladies pointing their blades at him. His expression became a tad bit more serious as Lupina and Scarlett gave their thoughts on the gang members, feeling that there was more at play than meets the eye. His expression soon changed from a serious one to an annoyed one when Scarlett started shamelessly flashing her nearly naked body for the public to see. Lupina certainly wasn’t helping the situation.

”I feel that you guys were much more reasonable while you were sleeping… Xashan said, chuckling lightly. Scarlett would quickly see the parts of her exposed skin being covered up by a fine dust, in addition, both her and Lupina would find themselves unable to carry on in their indecent fashion. The binding of Xashan’s sand was not something to take lightly; his command over the elements was further evidence of his Belua heritage. Soon, the pair would find themselves being dragged back to the Tower, pulled by the beck of Xashan’s magic.

”C’mon, you two. I think we’ve had enough fun here, and the unwanted publicity is something I’d rather avoid if it’s all the same to you.”

After sometime, the trio would find themselves back in the main hall of Eon, and the pair of ladies would find themselves finally released from Xashan’s hold. ”Alright ladies!” He said. ”Now that we’re within closed doors, feel free to show off as much as you want~” Xashan’s lighthearted tone and accompanying chuckles indicated he was being jovial. Mostly.

”So, would you still like for me to take you up on that dinner? I’m sure Ms. Bell cooked up a nice meal for everyone, anticipating their return.”

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@Polaris North @PaulHaynek @The Irish Tree

An Intriguing Escort

_______________________________________________ Difficulty: ⭐⭐ Reward: 4000G Assigned Reavers Shavis, Einer, Hector NPC(s): Ruecian Inventory: None

Description “Greetings and Salutations! My name is Imre Dorothea Molnar, a local noble in The Republic. I’m contacting the Eon Tower to request an escort for a business trip I’m going on today. My destination is a large trading village that’s not too far from town. However, due to the increasing reports of monster attacks that seem to be springing up as of late, I’d feel safer about traveling if I had an escort to see that my trek there goes safely. I’ve heard you recently defeated a powerful abomination and purified the area it contaminated, so I feel confident that you’re the right people for the job. I do hope to hear from you all soon! ” Rana’s Notes "Ah. Well, it seems that the previous mission I was involved with you on had garnered the Tower with some recognition. It’s probably good that someone affluent like this had taken notice, as they usually pay well for requests answered. If you’re wanting more funds, I’d definitely suggest taking this one. Of course, I can think of other reasons as to why Lanus perhaps would love to take this mission."

Einer, distracted, could not react in time to the downed assailant who let off a shot. Thankfully, the brigand could not properly aim while still injured, and thus he missed a vital area. However, the bullet instead went clean through the boy’s arm, yet again downing him with warm blood now staining the grass beneath him. The horrible sound made Ruecian immediately turn toward his comrades. ”Shit, Einer!!” He exclaimed. His opponent tried to take advantage of his turned attention and come at him with a pair of twin daggers, but instead of piercing flesh he pierced ice. The strong chill caused his hands to go numb with a dull pain; he had gotten instant frostbite.

Grunting in pain, the fighter dropped his daggers as his hands trembled with a bitter cold. Ruecian had made a barrier of rime around him just before the daggers connected. ”A for effort, my friend.” He spat. The centipede creature made a pained hiss, as the Shadar controlled Shavis clone stabbed its carapace and impaled its soft flesh underneath. The scent of charred flesh began to flow through the field/ Taking full advantage of the situation, Ruecian’s Mizuchi summon tore into the chitin further with its powerful jaws. The frost generated by its fangs caused the monster’s carapace to become brittle and weak. Soon, it along with the gooey flesh broke off into pieces, and with one last gasping roar the creature fell to the ground. As its life faded, its body dissipated. Ruecian finished off the summoner by slicing him with a powerful water torrent.

”Uh, you’re Shadar, Shavis’s summon right? Strong work!” He complimented the tiger spirit.

Shavis’ opponent made a valiant struggle, unable to use the magic-imubed spear lest they tore themselves apart. However, Shavis’ natural strength proved too much for the man, and she was able to finish him off without much difficulty. That just left the injured Einer and the cornered Hector.

The pair would find themselves in dire straits, as two fighters made their way to Hector and Einer, while another one made their way toward the unprotected carriage. Hector tried to aim for the one running toward the carriage, but he had to focus on the two in front of him. One was already on him, but he was able to get a shot off and blew straight through his chest. However, the other brigand took advantage of the diversion and decked Hector clean in his jaw. This caused him to drop his gun, leaving him defenseless along with Einer. Having no weapon, the attacker opted to beat Hector to death, having gotten on top of him and beginning to wail on him. All this, and the third brigand was nearly on the carriage.

”Damn! Shavis, help Hector! I’ll g-” Rue stopped mid sentence as a bright light emanated from the vehicle. Suddenly, the light lessened, then in a blur zipped past the encroaching assailant. The attacker, confused, felt a sharp pain across his chest. Blood then sprayed out of the wound, painting the grass a deep read. With a stained gurgle, he felt limb on the ground.

”That’s quite enough.” Said a familiar voice. Soon the light dissipated, revealing Imre in brand new attire. She wore a light armor dress with a similar color scheme to her normal clothes. She wielded an elegant straight sword that had a purple jewel embezzled in its hilt. It seemed that she entered into a “battle mode” of sorts and had cut down the attacker with a single slash. Even Hector’s attacker had to pause to process what had just happened to his partner. During this brief moment, Imre made a swift dash toward him. Before he could even react, Imre had run her sword straight through his heart. Blood dripped from his mouth as his struggles became more and more fleeting. Soon his body fell lifeless, and Imre seamlessly pulled her blade out of his chest and let him fall back at Hector’s feet.

The day had been won. The final blow by Imre, their escort, no less. She immediately went over to Einer in order to further heal him. ”By the Six, are you alright, Sir Devaron?!” She exclaimed. Utilizing blessed sorcery, she did her best to stop the bleeding and mend the gaping wound the lad had in his shoulder. Ruecian quickly came over as well, motioning for Shavis to follow.

”Ms. Imre, you mean, you were capable of fighting this whole time?” Rue asked their client, rather perplexed and somewhat irritated it would seem.

”Ah…” She hesitated a bit before speaking. ”Well, I certainly couldn’t have handled all of those assailants by myself, and my skills wouldn’t impress one of your calibur Sir Valeniquen. But yes, it’s common for all members of nobility to practice the art of combat and sorcery, as part of our Noblesse Oblige. Whether we be from the Republic, or the Holy Capital.”

Rue sighed. ”Well, as our client, guess it doesn’t make sense for us to let you needlessly endanger yourself. In spite of that, you still saved my comrades' lives, immediately rushing to save them. For that, you have my thanks.”

Imre blushed a bit, apparently a bit embarrassed. ”Oh my! Well, as my escorts, it’s only natural that I need to ensure that you stay within good health. That, and my honor would allow harm to come to those who are aiding me!” She then looked at Einer with concerned eyes, the wound wasn’t healing as properly as it should've been.

”It’s the bullet, it dealt magical damage. That’s quite harder difficult to heal, I’m afraid.” Said Nathniel, walking up behind Imre. ”Milady, it is quite fortunate that we are rather close to the trading village. It’s best we find a dedicated physician there and have them treat Sir Devaron.”

”Ah, yes, I completely agree.” Imre said. ”Come everyone, we’ve not a moment to lose!” Making sure everyone aside from Einer were well enough from the battle, Imre got everyone to quickly occupy the vehicle and make way toward the village. After some more time, they eventually arrived at the trading town. After getting out of the carriage, Nathaniel led Einer out.

”Milady, I will lead Sir Devaron to the town physician post haste.” He said.

”Thank you Nathniel, please do!” Imre said.

Einer would be led by Nathanial further into the borough, until they eventually found the physician’s office.

Imre turned to the three reavers who were left with her. ”I’m sorry that Sir Devaron got hurt on my account. I pray to the Scions that the doctor will be able to mend his wound better than I could.”

If the group wanted to ask her any questions about her background, the trading town, or anything else about the region, this would be the perfect time.

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@Hammerman @Silverstein @Rune_Alchemist

Lost Children

_______________________________________________ Difficulty: ⭐⭐ Reward: 2000G Assigned Reavers Leon, Renee, Lanus, Haaselle NPC(s): Rozemyne Inventory: None

Description A couple of the local folk are reporting that their children have gone missing in the underground waterways below Morgenröte. Enough time hasn’t actually passed for the police to conduct a missing person search, but due to the concern of strange creatures being known to appear the parents are insisting that something be done to find the kids as soon as possible. The police state that the creatures that have appeared usually aren’t that dangerous to the populace, attempting to calm the concerns of the folk, but it hasn’t done much to persuade them. Hence, Eon has been requested. A photo of the kids has been provided. Rana’s Notes "I admit, I myself have also played in that old waterway back when I was little. You’d think they take better care in placing prohibitions from allowing youngsters to play there in the first place. I’ve never run into anything too dangerous down there that I can recall. Then again, I could still use magic even back then, and I presume these kids can’t since it wasn’t mentioned in the report. So, I’d say we should attend to this one as soon as possible if we’ve the manpower to spare. Especially since the so-called authorities don’t wish to be of help…"

Roze looked at Leon with even more curious eyes. ”I’ve always known that man to be clandestine, and I’ve even heard that before he joined up with Arteus he was rather cutthroat and duplicitous. Still, I can’t imagine how or why he would have something like that in his mitts.” She said, not having many good things to say about the aforementioned librarian. ”But, for now, I will honor your wish and remain silent about this. However, if it gets too serious, I will inform Arteus about this, understand?” Roze sand solemnly. She then turned to Haaselle, who apparently wanted praise from her superior. ”Yes, Haaselle, you performed quite well out there. Your esper abilities certainly make me glad you’re on our side.” Roze said, smiling.

Meanwhile, Giselle as Renee formally introduced herself and properly thanked her for aiding them. ”Oh, no thanks are necessary, Ms. Renee. I simply did what was just. I’m sure you would’ve done the same for me.” She said with a warm smile, contrasting her previous venom toward Lanus.

”Oh, I’m he will. In fact, I’d be more than willing to lend my aid with that matter as well, should you so need it…” Giselle said, joining Renee in piercing Lanus with their glares. She would shoot a small spark of light, aimed directly at Lanus’s face. To him, the spark would feel like his nose got punched. ”Don’t think I didn’t notice where your eyes were looking before, lecher!!” She snapped, referring to when he was eyeing her dress.

”Hey everyone! Since we seem to be done here, I suggest that we head back to the Tower. Giselle, since you want to meet with Arteus, why don’t you come with us. I feel that he’ll be returning soon.” Roze said to the party, ignoring the imminent danger that Lanus was in.

”Well, yes, I suppose that would be for the best. I’m rather curious about this Tower of yours anyway.”

The party made its way back to Eon, although Giselle shot Leon a few looks, having a few questions about the odd aura and sigils emanating from him. She chose to keep it to herself for now, they were technically allies right now.

As they entered the main hall, they were met with the trio of Xashan, Scarlett, and Lupina.

”More denizens of the Tower I presume?” Giselle said to Roze.

”Yes. Well, I’m not too familiar with the Belua woman standing with them. Xashan, the man, is a veteran her, same as I.”

”Hail there! I see you all returned from your mission in one piece. Not bad~” Xashan said to the party. ”Right, I should probably introduce this little miss. This is Lupina, another new recruit who has graced our humble Tower with her presence. She and us just got done stomping out some local ruffians.”

Giselle looked at the trio for a moment, but paid special attention to Scarlett, who she got a very strange vibe from. She recognized immediately what she actually was, but thought it best to keep that little detail to herself. It wasn’t her fact to tell, after all.

Giselle politely bowed before Xashan and the two female members that stood before her. ”Good Afternoon, my name is Giselle Kostovii, an emissary sent from Ithaca to improve relations between the Fae Kingdom and the Magus Society, it is a pleasure to meet all of you.”

”Pleasure’s all mine, Ms. Giselle. Name’s Xashan Vhastia, the most handsome member among Eon’s reaver team.” He said, with a confident smirk. Giselle thought that he was probably the only one who thought that. ”I was just about to treat these ladies to a nice meal.”

”How is it a treat if it’s here at base?” Roze interjected with an exasperated squint.

”It can be. All one need do is apply a little imagination and positive attitude!” Xashan replied with a wide grin and thumbs up.

”I’m gonna go wash this stench of sewage and arachne blood off of me.” Roze said dismissively, walking past him and toward her private quarters. She did turn to Haaselle for a moment. ”Oh, Haaselle, you should wash up too, after that I can give you a tour of the Tower. Get you acclimated with the staff and all that.” She told her.

”Haaselle, was it? You must be another new member as well. If you get bored of wandering the Tower, feel free to request me as an escort around town. I’d be more than happy to oblige.” Xashan said to the tentacled Belua.

The present party was now free to do as they pleased. They could stay and converse with Giselle, asking her more questions about her role or the situation in Ithaca, go to the mess hall, or explore the Tower for a bit if they so desired.

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@Frozen0Titan

”Erm…well, there IS a man named Kiff who we, perhaps reluctantly, count among our Tower’s staff.” Naomi said, as if biting her own tongue. ”He serves as Eon’s librarian of sorts, heading a repository of hundreds of grimoires and ancient texts that he himself has collected from his earlier days.” She sighed, breaking her explanation for a moment. ”What I am saying is that he is a well-traveled and knowledgeable person, and may likely know how to at least somewhat translate this strange dialect. Follow me, please.”

With that, the researcher led Damian out of her office and down to another wing of the Tower. Eventually, they made their way to the library’s entrance, entering in they would be greeted by the sight of Kiff fiddling with some artifacts. He sat at his desk at the center of the repository, his feet on the table as he toiled away. After a brief moment, he noticed the two individuals enter.

”Ah, Naomi! Back again, I see? What do you need this time?” He said cheerfully.

”Translation assistance.” She responded.

”Translation help?” Kiff said, somewhat puzzled. ”What exactly were you getting up to this morning? Is this related to what happened earlier?

”Somewhat. Look, something weird’s going on with the Makara egg that we took from Scarlett. In order to figure out what, we need to translate the runes that have surrounded it. The problem is, it’s a combination of several different languages. In order to gain any headway, we need to be able to understand Serpent-tongue. Think you can help?”

”Probably” He quickly stated. ”I’m sure I have at least one tome or two with that language. If not, then I imagine that Lapis or Ruecian could also aid in that regard as well. A little anyway…” Kiff waved his hand for a moment, then pointed it towards a shelf further in the back. Some books became enveloped in a blue light, and began promptly floating toward him. He started to look through them, deducing which ones would be of most use to them.

Kiff turned to the pair for a moment, breaking from his concentration. ”Who’s your companion here, Naomi? Is he…perhaps you’ve finally found a boyfriend?~ How wondrous it would be that you’d finally found a man that was able to seduce you out of that stuffy lab of yours!” Kiff obviously knew that Damian was another new recruit to the Tower, at least as far as Artues and Brun were concerned. But, he thought to have a little fun.

With a blushing squawk, Naomi’s wings began to flap clumsily, having been taken off guard by Kiff’s inquiry. ”S-Shut up! Don’t say such stupid things! We’ve only just met, and my studies are VERY important to me!!”

With Naomi now too flustered to engage with, Kiff turned his attention back to Damian. ”Tell me, what’s your name, friend? Also, a bit curious, what other languages made up those runes you saw on that egg?”

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Interludes

No Honor Among Thieves

A loud, crackling flame could be heard throughout the countryside, it was a plain that laid far to the south of the Holy Capital of Flugell. It was off the well marked main road that led off to a small forest, or at least what was left of it.

The searing flames came from much of the forest and even the plains stretching back out to the main road being burned to cinders. Among the charred foliage one could see several desecrated carcasses of individuals wearing strange black uniforms. Their bodies had emanated a peculiar dark aura from them, which eventually faded away along with their lives.

A certain masked mercenary would find himself on the defense from a large Belua individual, marked by his large and toned reptilian form and crimson scales. The lizard appeared to be wielding a large bastard sword made completely out of fire, the heat was so intense that it singed his clothes and burned his flesh. What was more interesting was that the merc's flesh began to rapidly heal as soon as it was cleaved. This seemed to actually amuse his Belua attacker.

"Scions laddie!" Said the lizard. He spoke in a deep and menacing voice. "I ain't sensing no mana at play, so I doubt that's alchemy that's keeping ya alive. But, I bet you enjoy being burned as 'bout as much as anyone else. What say ya just cut yer loses and give me what I came for?"

“Your giant, flaming sword makes your offer pretty tempting, mister lizard guy.” The mercenary replied, holding only one of his swords and the wounds he sustained from the ambush closing and healing. “Unfortunately, the people you just burned have a boss who paid a pretty penny to keep my mouth shut when it comes to this stuff. Continues to pay me, in fact.”

“But hey, as a mercenary, I’m nothing if not negotiable. If you’ve got a prettier penny on you, maybe you can open my mouth a little.” The mercenary offered, but had his other hand on his utility belt. Just in case.

"Coin?!" Kinnich said, almost breaking out into a laugh. "S’ppose death ain’t mucha worry to ya. By the Six, I thought the point of organized crime was to cut out the bureaucracy! "

The reptilian Belua suddenly tackled the merc, dragging them both across the ground several yards, a smoldering trail was left by the action. The merc would then find the Belua attempting to snap his neck with his large jaws.

"Ya won’t have to worry about being paid if I just off ya employee, mongrel!"

“It’s organized crime, lizard man! Of course there’s gonna be bureaucracy!” Keith was stopping Kinnich from biting his neck off with his one sword. But preparing for this moment, Keith grabbed a smoke bomb from his belt and slammed it into Kinnich’s mouth where it immediately went off.

The sudden explosion of smoke allowed Keith to slip away from Kinnich. “Come on, man. You won’t get a better offer than mine with the other cultists. Not unless you’re gonna pledge yourself to my boss woman.” The mercenary continued to suggest. “Don’t tell me you’re poor! You can do all this stuff but not have anything valuable on you?”

Kinnich had Keith’s sword in his mouth as the merc attempted to stave off his Belua aggressor. Ignoring Keith’s retort, his jaws clamped down on the blade, making a bid to shatter it into pieces. Before he got the chance, the sellsword shoved a smoke bomb into Kinnich’s mouth. With an angered and muffled grunt, the explosion caused him to tumble back a bit, allowing Keith to put some distance between them. Kinnich emerged from the smoke, smoke smoldering from his mouth.

”When a man can simply take what he wants, capital starts ta matter less and less. Hence my annoyance with bureaucracy.” He said. ”As for ya boss lady, I know a thing or two about ‘er, and what a woman she is! Damn sure have no wantin’ to partner with ‘er, and now’s not the time to be tango’in with ‘er either. Kinnich blows some of the smoke from his mouth, as if he was smoking a cigar. He paused for a moment, as if thinking.

”Tell ya what, boyo.” He began. ”Me and my droogs were recently hired to do a job along with some other teams. It went south, as the other men couldn’t get the job done. The employer decided not to pay anyone anything, since they didn’t get all they wanted. I decided that was bullocks, so I was on my way to rob ‘em blind, along with making a nice meal outta ‘em.” Fire began to emit from his fangs.

"I’d hate to part with a bit of what’s rightfully mine, but how’s about I give ya a portion of what I was gonna take from the ungrateful bastard?"

Keith smiled behind his mask, tossing away his shattered sword. “Ooh, now we’re talking…” The mercenary replied. “How about I take half? And in return, I’ll tell you all about how to use this Miasma stuff to really screw things up. And trust me, I’ve learned a lot about this since my employment.

Grimvine Comes

”Have you completed all preparations for your travels, Grisha?” Spoke a regal looking woman. She had long brunette hair that glistened in the room’s lighting. Her eyes glowed with an odd golden hue; they had a squint that suggested that she had been on the battlefield for a bit too long. She wore a pristine militaristic uniform.

”Yes, milday. Or, as much as we can given the nature of the mission. You can never be too sure with that Irvin scoundrel…” Spoke a slender white haired man. He wore an elegant, ghost white outfit that gave him the appearance of a saintly priest. He adjusted his glasses as he spoke. His tone suggested that he wasn’t very fond of a certain sage…

”Considering that it’s him, I doubt we have to worry about the usual grievances that come with the Association. However, because it IS him, the problem is that we really don’t know what to expect. That’s why I’m having these two accompany you.

Two young women walked into the room to join the talking pair. One of them wore a hood that still allowed their crimson hair to be seen. Her robe denoted her as a member of the clergy, a high ranking one at that.

”How do you do, Inquisitor?” Said the hooded woman with a polite bow. Grisha, wide-eyed, immediately recognized the woman. The Holy Seer of the Crusaders: Tethys Aria Zaerado.

The other woman had long silver hair, and wore regal armor complete with a white cowl and dress. ”Greetings, Sir Pensworth, it is a pleasure to meet you.” She said, also politely bowing.

”You. I think I know you. You’re the heiress to the Zander house, aren’t you?” Grisha said.

”You are correct, sir. It is as you say, I am Alexandra Haschwalth Zander, current heir to the Zander house and their school of swordsmanship. If you can forgive my lack of experience, I do pray that we work well together, Sir Pensworth.”

”I hope you don’t take having these two accompanying you to Morgenröte as a sign of my distrust in your abilities, Grisha. However, I feel that having them with you will be for the best.”

”Certainly not, Your Grace. Your decision making is of course always spot on.I will lead them with me and execute my orders, as I always do.” Grisha said.

”Ah, Your Grace…” Tethys interjected.

”Yes, I am aware. You said that someone had reawakened that old grimoire? And made a contract with it no less.”

”Yes, I could only sense that it was a young Fae body who made the contract. It’s a stretch, but I feel that he may be connected to Eon.” The woman appeared to be troubled by this revelation.

”Then that is most likely the correction presumption. Let us not take any chances; You lot are to depart for Eon immediately, and conduct your inquisition as thoroughly as possible. Learn anything of note of what’s going on in that rogue sect and report every one of your findings to me. Were dealing with magus who have broken away from the Association's lease, so meticulousness is crucial here.”

“Yes. Apostle Marianne!” They all said at once, bowing before the woman in uniform.

The Maids Guide to Demon Hunting

_{@Rune_Alchemist@Click This}

---

Havershel Estate

---

Having been shoved onto the floor, Lucrecia quickly got back on her feet with a spring flip, not missing even a single beat. As she witnessed the woman's transform, it seemed her question was answered all right. The woman she just got through saving had taken on a peculiar axolotl-like appearance. The the unassuming, almost blank smile-like expression that she wore on her face created a tonal dissonance with the new menace she now emanated.

Lord Havershel, on the other hand, was unfazed by Lucrecia's and Polina's combination attack. Interestingly, instead of allowing whatever force had defended him prior to do its passive work, he used the mattress Polina threw at him to block Lucrecia's fireballs. That made her think she was on the right track.

"Ficcatelo nel culo, bastardo." Lucrecia spat back at the lord, having become short on patience at this point. "One of you idiotas is going to give me the answers I'm looking for! What do you mean we're short on time, what did you fuck up, exactly?"

Lucrecia held throwing knives in one hand, and a pistol in the other. She threw knives at the demon maid in order to subdue her, but made sure to miss any areas that would result in a killing blow. Depending on Havershel's answer, she'd let loose a salvo on him. She feint him into thinking they're just regular bullets, but actually they'd be a storm of embers that would rain down on him. Magic seems to be effective enough for him to change his stride.

Tales Of Shizuyama: Alternative (Far-Eastern Monster Girl RP)

Kirei, Vară, & Lavinia

---

Janus' Campsite

---

@PaulHaynek@Rune_Alchemist

Kirei nodded his head, listening intently at Takeshi's explanation of the situation. "We, hopefully they're willing to lend their aid to us, on top of not being hard to find." He said.

”I noticed that Vară-chan seemed to be troubled by somethin', Lavi-chan probably noticed too. I'm sure they'll be able to sort it out.” Kirei said, answering his question. He guess would turn out to be correct, as Lavinia had appeared back with the group. A little bit after, Vară appeared back as well. ”See, there they a-” Kirei stopped midsentence, as he noticed that Vară had tear marks under her eyes. ”Oh dear, what happened between you two? Did you pick on her, Lavi-chan?” He said, making a sarcastic nod at Lavinia.

”How rude!” Lavinia snapped. ”We were just having a little girl talk. Would you rather I tease you instead, captain?~” She said, returned his snarky remark with some snide of her own.

Vară quickly wiped her eyes to be rid of the marks. ”Oh! I wasn't upset or anything!” She retorted. ”I just got exposed to some exotic plants and my eyes got irritated, that's all...”

--

Having packed up all of their belongings, the party was led by Janus toward their next destination - Terauchi Temple.

Lavinia giggled at Janus' joke. ”That's no worry, I'd just make the captain carry all of by belongings anyway.”

Kirei shot the Umbra Witch a look, before smirking himself. ”Sure, if you don't mind forking over your rations my way.”

Vară had walked so that she was beside Janus, she seemed like she was attempting to work up the courage to speak with the man, yesterday's events still weighing heavily on her mind. ”Um, Sir Janus?” She uttered. ”I'm sorry, about Sidonus. He...he seemed like a good man.” Lavi's words echoed in her mind, she knew that blaming herself for what happened would only disrespect his memory. ”I...I promise to do everything I can to ensure that his death isn't in vain!” Although, a small part of the heiress wondered how Janus felt about her: Did he blame her for what happened, holding to some resentment. Was he disappoint in her weakness? Her insecurities slowly began to whirl up inside of her.

Eventually, their guide let them to a cliff face, with a wave of his hand he revealed the entrance of a small cave. In it were some horses and a small, beat up wagon. Vară blinked a few times, as if attempting to process way she was laying her eyes on. ”Are we all going to seriously ride in that?” She said, pointing at the wagon.

The group was surprised to see a large black stallion revealed itself from the bushes, the affection it displayed quickly answered the question of who its master was. Kirei went up to the horse, gently rubbing its head. "My, that's a fine horse, Takeshi-san." He said. "Looks like you don't have to worry about riding in that tiny cart, lucky!"

Takeshi offered to let Nyla ride Shiro with him, Kirei then turned to Lavinia and Vară. "I don't suppose either of you know how to ride a horse?" Both of the girls shook their heads no. He chuckled. "Well, thankfully I do. One of you ladies could ride with me, although that would still leave one of you having to ride in that wagon... Unless Janus doesn't mind having a riding partner?" He said, turning to the armored warrior.

The Maids Guide to Demon Hunting

_{@Rune_Alchemist@Click This}

---

Havershel Estate

---

The main part of Lucrecia's gambit was successful, Havershel's grip on the maid loosened, allowing Lucrecia to snatch her up and put some distance between them. She was a little shocked that the entirely of the chandelier was ripped to pieces before it could even make contact with the Lord's body. Having heard the Lord's peculiar words, and ignoring his threats, Lucrecia looked at the maid she was holding. Unfortunately, it also seemed that she knew nothing of any idol either...

"Are...are you a demon?" She asked the maid. As for the lord himself, it was clear that he made some sort of pact with them. Lucrecia quickly jumped away from the maid, putting more distance between herself and both of them.

Lucrecia still wasn't well versed in it, but perhaps this would put things in their favor. "Polina, hit the bastardo with magic!" She said, generating a plume of small fireballs that darted toward the lord of the estate.

Tales Of Shizuyama (Far-Eastern Monster Girl RP)

---

Terauchi Temple

---

Pre-Emptive Strike - Aftermath

^{@PaulHaynek@Enkryption@The Irish Tree@Restalaan@Rezod92@Crowvette@Nakushita@Hammerman}

---

"Honestly, I expected more... revealing questions like who Lady Kyouko is or who Takeshi likes or something. Oh well, maybe you'll get another chance next time."

Ian then rowed the taskforce back to the port where they parted ways with the taskforce heading back to Terauchi Temple, unaware of the battle raging there.

@PaulHaynek

"Who Lady Kyouko is? What does that mean?" Shizuka had been perplexed by Ian's statement. While he had his suspicions that a mamono would want to go to such great lengths to protect an anti-monster nation, basic mamono nature aside. Unfortunately, Ian ended his Q&A before he could inquiry any further, and rowed them back to the port. They then bade him and the family farewell, as they made their way back toward the temple.

As they neared the Terauchi grounds, Shizuka could sense the warring chi surrounding it, and the fading of chi - signifying death. His fears were confirmed when he saw the smoke stacks. His hand on his weapon, he rushed ahead of the others and arrived at the entrance. He saw that some of the Varjan attackers were fleeing the scene, having seemed to lose the will to fight. He instead turned his attention to Kerry and Gringor, who were locked in combat with some Varjan Elites. Kerry noticed the group had returned, and bade them a welcome in the form of an exasperated inquiry as to their whereabouts.

Kerry would hear a distinct slicing sound, before Shizuka suddenly appeared right beside her. "Apologizes, the mission we were on became more tedious than anticipated." He replied. "I'll talk more about it later." After he finished speaking, the Varjan Elite toppled over on the ground before they could mount a second strike. Blood could be seen flowing from where the warrior had been cut. Shizuka vanished again, and in an instant the small squadron of archers firing at Kerry were all downed as well, struck with blows imbued with varying elements.

Seeing that the fires for the most part had been put out and the rest of the attackers had fled, it was clear that the battle had been won.

"Kerry, Gringor, are you two alright?" He said in a tone fitting both confusion and concern. He then noticed some of the others coming back into view, Lord Takeshi among them. "Takeshi-dono," he said, walking over to him. "Is everyone alright? I pray there weren't any casualties among the refugees. How did this happen, the Varjans shouldn't have known about this place!"

Independent of the answer Takeshi would give him, after the explanation, Shizuka would turn over to Alice and Kerry - the former exploding at the latter. Alice had thought it unfair that Kerry had so brazenly questioned their whereabouts whilst the people of the temple were fighting for their lives. Alice then cursed Shizuyama and the Varjans and stormed of toward her quarters. Shizuka looked back at Takeshi, then to Kerry.

"I'm sorry." He said to the hornet lancer. "I'll speak with her."

Making his way to the living quarters afforded to the taskforce, he saw Alice hurriedly packing her belongings, frustration straining her face.

"Alice." He said. "I understand you are exhausted and anxious. We all are. However, I believe your reaction was a bit much…"

---

Crossroads

"Alice. I understand you are exhausted and anxious. We all are. However, I believe your reaction was a bit much…"

Shizuka

Alice shifted her focus, extending her right arm; a simple, yet dangerous kitchen knife unfolding from her palm. "Ask me, why I should care what your beliefs are, bandit?"

”I because I want you to understand that I care.” He replied blatantly. ”Paying attention to the way you’ve been acting, I get the feeling that you feel like you have no friends or allies here. That’s not true, as one’s standing in front of you right now. I think he’d like it if you humored him for a little while and talked to him about your grievances.”

"My grievances,'' Alice asks, narrowing her eyes. "Spare me! It's been NOTHING but annoying and annoying and ANNOYING! From the moment I arrived, I wasn't going to fit in, and then they attacked me with magic and surrounded me when I was down from the Vargin fight! Three-against-one! Injured! Weak! They pounced to cast "healing magic" - a distraction for the Orc to attack me while I was paralyzed!""

Shizuka could only look at Alice with somber eyes, seeing how distraught she’s truly been this whole time. ”You think they jumped you, and attacked you, and only saw you as a target? Is that what you truly think? Alice-san, the fact that they cast healing magic on you is only proof that they value you as a fellow sentient being. Gringor attacked you because he wanted to keep you from getting yourself killed. You said so yourself: you were already weary from your previous outing. Why push yourself more than necessary? If everyone sees you as a threat, then why have they done nothing but help you this whole time?!”

"You say these things, speak untruths as if they will become true by hoping!" Alice snarled, turning her full body to him, "Liars put on airs, smile with knives behind their backs... Soft and kind approaches..." she narrowed her eyes to Shizuka, "You know that well enough, bandit."

”They can’t be lies if they are the truth.” Said Shizuka ”My hand is not on my sword, and I’ve nothing up my sleeve, sorcerer though I am. I’ve saved your life, twice in fact, because it was the just thing to do. Even after I lost control of myself and attacked you. I’m the one you have a right to lash out at, if that is what it must come to. I know it must hurt, and no one can tell you how to feel. If you feel someone must pay, then I pray that it be me, Alice-san.”

"The payment I desire isn't blood..." Alice says, "There's no apology that can solve this..." she frowned, eyes cast to the floor, "Besides, bandit, you aren't trying to save me. You had sex with Carroll. Funny. My sword finds a Husband before I find a Wife," Alice laughed derisively, before whipping Carroll at Shizuka, "She doesn't suit me anymore. I never held a sword. I was a hunter. Better with an axe than a longsword, or whatever you've made her. So, keep her..."

”Alice, the pain that blinds you must be staggering.” Shizuka said, his eyes
darkening bit by bit. ”What I want is for you to allow yourself to heal. As for what happened between Carroll and I, it was a spur of the moment, and at the time I felt it was the best way to heal her. Alice, how long do you intend to allow yourself to wallow in suffering?” Shizuka could already feel Carroll’s familiar presence coursing through his arm. ”If you allowed yourself to simply see, you’d understand that among us, you’ve no enemies. The Varjans and the unfortunate islanders who hold fast to tradition are your real enemies!”

"You are all my enemies. Enemies of my kingdom, because you will not submit!" Alice snapped. "I'm tired of this realm. I want to go home. That screaming bug... that moronic swine... I see them... I hate them... Argumentative... Arrogant... I have survived too much! If I were in control... In command... To the sword..."

”Control? Is that what this is all about? You want control, to be in charge?” Shizuka shook his head. ”It’s not as if Kerry and Gringor have any actual authority over you. For one as long lived as you, is it truly so hard to brush off their lesser points as mere bilge? While Kyouko-sama chose me to act as a standing captain for the taskforce, and Takeshi-dono as the one we ultimately follow, I can’t always directly supervise their actions. That’s why trust is so strong amongst our ranks, we see each other as equals. If you seek to reclaim what is lost, why must it be won through subjugation and show of force. Perhaps that’s why it was ultimately lost in the first place. ”

”If you wish to lead, lead by example, not by vitriolic demand.”

Alice gave Shizuka an almost defeated look, before spinning the kitchen knife. "Five centuries. It means nothing to you. It's an inconceivable amount of time, but, to me, it was yesterday that Summerheld burned, that Falenhiem was immolated, that Garrenson was scorched... that I heard the screams of those that believed in me in the Grand Halls of Huul, the Rolling Fields of Boswen... that I smelled the ash of the Verdane Forest, and the boiling water of the Miroe Mountains..."

"A thousand villages, some that grew to kingdom, some that lived as hamlets," Alice placed the blade of the kitchen in her right palm, and squeezed; green blood pouring to the floor. "Don't preach loss to me, Shizuka! The Queen of Hearts has engraved the meaning of loss into me..." she looked at him, "None of you are my equals. How could you ever hope to be?"

"The only equal I have is the fire that is used to erase me from whenever I settle and grow..."

”Why allow your pain to isolate you in such a way? We are not lambs, scurrying aimlessly while hoping that a hand throws crumbs our way, we are here fighting alongside you. I don’t see why suffering must be waved around like a badge of honor, why it must be used to further segregate individuals from their would-be peers. Why is it so wrong for you to see us as comrades? People I love have died because of mine ineptitude or my lack of foresight, but I won’t use it to consider myself superior to those around me.”

"Superiority," Alice asks, before laughing the saddest laugh possible, as she had looked at her bleeding back. "I bleed, just like you. I breathe, just like you. I sleep, drink, piss, and shit, just like you. I was Human once, just like you," she says, as red flowed into the green, "Mamono are not superior. The difference between you and I, Shizuka, is that I am simply above you by the hierarchical society we live."

"If you dashed me, right now, you would take my head off before I could parry you, because the nerves in my hand are separated by this knife embedded in my palm," Alice smirked, "From where I am, you are superior to me."

"My suffering isn't anything to be impressed by, at the end of the day, but simply to inform my character..." Alice stood, as her arm hung limp, "I'm not Yurika. You can't save me," she says, before whipping her arm, and burying the knife in the side of her neck, "I want to die like a Human should... and, I can't, because monsters never die..."

Alice ripped the blade out, and her wounds sealed up. Her expression was empty and sad, as she sat down. Mamono were usually carefree and jovial, even the Taskforce came off as without internal strife or personal baggage - save for the sisters. So, maybe, Alice's complicated past and lack of anyone to relate to in a fashion, as both a woman and a monster, was truly the crux of her issue?

”Alice, perhaps my need to be a hero is what led to my loss in the first place.” Shizuka responded morosely. ”It would be arrogant of me to always presume that I can save every single person I come across. But…if possible I would at least like to try for a person that I’ve come to know and respect..” He said, walking over to Alice.

”I certainly don’t know what it’s like living so many lifetimes, having to constantly be reminded of past tragedies for so long. I…imagine that it could drive any person insane. But, in your case Alice, I’d say you’re just as human as anyone else. There’s more to humanity than simple biology: you laugh, cry, feel happiness and sadness, and get angry just like anyone else. You linger on past regrets, and are still trying to find a way to make it all make sense. I feel like that’s the story of my so far short life. To be honest, a small part of me came here in the hopes that I might finally die of a noble cause, and give me life some semblance of meaning.”

He sighed. ”Perhaps that’s the coward’s way out. Call it desperate, call it melancholic, but honesty when someone allows their despair to shallow them, it seems like the only path that makes sense. But Alice-san, perhaps there is something that can be found in all the madness. Instead of letting our pasts define us, let it allow us to seek a better future, one where death is not the only way to find salvation.”

Alice looked off to the side, listlessly. "I don't have a better future," she says, picking up the bloody knife, smeared with vicious, separated green and red blood.

”Alice-san, the future is stagnant, and therefore cannot be presumed so easily. You are a long-lived and cunning woman, I’m sure it isn’t too tall of an order for you to carve out your own path.” He said, placing Carroll on her lap.

”Carroll has done more for me than you could imagine. But, I think it’s best that she remains with you. I feel that you could use her at your side more than I, and I believe she feels the same.”

Alice snorted, then huffed. "I'm not apologizing for what I did, nor what I said," she says, "Pretenses aside, I deserve a modicum of respect. Instead of asking where I've been, should have asked how I've been," she narrowed her eyes, "...but, I'll think about what tomorrow holds, if it clears your mind."

Shizuka chuckled, his mood seemingly having improved. ”In the end, that’s all I can ask, and there’s nothing with that either. I’d say that it’d be best to turn in for the night, but I don’t know what Takeshi-dono’s plans are. Either way, we can’t stay here anymore, so I’m not sure if we’re leaving now or first thing at dawn. But, I think you’ve earned yourself some R&R. Good job on the mission, and good night to both you and Carroll.”

With that, the rorouni got up and made his way back toward the main part of the camp to further hear out Takeshi and the others, concerned with what the immediate future holds.

Alice nodded, before standing up. "We can't stay here... that much is true..." she says. "You're awful quiet, Carroll."

"That Rainbow Knight... what he offered..." Carroll said, "If there was never a brighter sign than now... This village is in shambles... This sham of a force is in ruins... Let's just cut out losses and take his offer," she says, "We have a shot to return to Wonderland and take her down once and for all."

Alice sighed, and stretched her back. "That we do..." she says, "I can't let go of our past, the demons call me home."

"One last chance," Carroll says, "I can sense my sisters, now that they aren't hidden. So, let's go before someone else visits."

"O' frabjous day," Alice says, before disappearing out the window, and tracking down Ian.

As Shizuka walked off toward the main grounds, he slowed his pace for a moment, having already sensed that Alice’s and Carroll’s chi signatures were drifting further and further away. It seemed that instead of waiting until dawn as she previously said, the pair had already made their decision right then and there.

”Farewell, Alice and Carroll, Wayward Queen and Cursed Blade of Wonderland. ”

With that, he returned to the others. All he could do was wish them luck on the path they had chosen to take, but part of him wished that he could’ve at least said goodbye.

---

The assault made by Hinani and Skarsneek worked! Falling to the demonic metal of the jiangshi's morning star and Takeshi's blade, the elite silently fell to the ground, having finally been vanquished. With victory attained, Hinami dispelled her weapon and immediately went over to give Skarsneek an embrace that was perhaps a bit too tight.

"Skars-kun, we did it!!" She said, paying no attention to her lack of strength control. Atsuha, thankful that Takeshi was recovered and back on his feet, smiled and giggled at the sight of her sister and lover. After Takeshi declared their victory, it felt like an anvil had been lifted from her heart, and at last she felt a sense of relief come over her.

Atsuha noticed that Shizuka and the others had returned, the former assisting Kerry and Gringor with mopping up the rest of the stragglers. She then saw Alice blowing up on Kerry, upset at the not-so-warm welcome she received from the latter, and stormed off toward the barracks as a result. She decided that it should be left alone, feeling that Shizuka would handle it appropriately. Though, something that Shizuka said did stick out to her.

"Indeed, how did those barbarians find out about this place? It seems highly unlikely…"

The Little Hamlet

Apologies for double-posting, but wanted to know if this was still going?

The Maids Guide to Demon Hunting

_{@Rune_Alchemist@Click This}

---

Havershel Estate

---

Lucrecia clicked her tongue as her knives clanked harmlessly from Havershel's ankles. These demons... She thought. Are they protecting him? Thankfully, Polina's sharpshooting allowed their chase through the halls to remain, for the most part, unimpeded. Darting down the hall and out of view for a moment, the pair of maids could hear the sound of a door being forcibly opened. Good, Lucrecia thought, that means that he's now cornered.

As Lucrecia and Polina caught up, they were greeted with the scene of the Lord standing over an injured and pleading maid, shouting at her. Two other bodies laid to the side, Lucrecia could tell they looked fresh. The comment Havershel made was quite telling: Was the Lady of the house that maid from earlier mentioned a demonic pretender? What had Haversehl wrought on this estate...

Myrilla, still nudging Lucrecia in her ear, suggested that she should take advantage of the situation and split away from the fellow agent. Even if she did, she wouldn't know where the real idol was being kept. However, Havershel himself or perhaps that injured maid did. She felt that the lord wasn't in the mood to be cooperative, but the maid was another story.

Two demons had made a direct gambit towards Polina, perhaps this was a chance to do a Myrilla suggested. Hoping that the demons would keep Polina distracted for long enough, Lucrecia pulled out a gun and shot a chandelier that was above the pair of the Lord and the maid. Using it as a diversion, Lucrecia would snatch the injured maid and rescue her from the Lord.

If her gambit worked, she would ask: "How has all of this happened, and where is the real idol the Lord has in his possession?"

Tales Of Shizuyama: Alternative (Far-Eastern Monster Girl RP)

Kirei, Vară, & Lavinia

---

Janus' Campsite

---

@PaulHaynek@Rune_Alchemist

"Wife...?" Vară said halfheartedly. "Oh, no I'm not. Besides...why would anyone..." Vară was barely able to complete her sentences, having still not recovered from the previous operation.

"Teehee 'fraid not, love. Lavinia answered next. "Monster though I may be, I have come here on behalf of the Witch Association to aid the people of this island. Kirei just so happens to be my commanding officer, not my lover. She said. "Although..." She looked at Kirei, placing a finger on the corner of her mouth, which had twisted into a seductive smile. "What Nyla says is correct, commander Kirei does earn many points for his skill and handsome build~

Lavinia then turned to Vară, who she could sense was filled with negative emotions currently. She walked over to the fire demoness, placing her had on Vară's. "Huh?" Vară said in surprise.

"I think it'd be nice if we had a little girl-to-girl talk" Lavinia said, as she led Vară to a quiet and private corner in the campsite.

"A-About what...?" Vară went on, still flustered and confused.

--

Kirei stared at the two as they went off to a deeper place in the camp. He scoffed, it supposed it was fine so long as didn't go off too far on their own.

"Well, there you have it, Takeshi-dono" Kirei said with a smile. "All relationships here are strictly plutonic and work-related. For the most part anyway... But, barring that, is there anything else you can tell us about the island's current situation. Are they any other forces that could aid us against the invaders?

Girl Talk

"A-Alright, Lavinia, just tell me what you want already!" Said a exasperated Vară.

"The way you've been acting since we got back to camp. This is about Sidonus, isn't it? The umbra witch flatly asked.

Vară became wide-eyed at Lavinia's statement. Her heart sank deep into her chest, and didn't have the spirit to even look the witch in her blind-folded eyes. "He's dead. He's dead and it's all my fault...

"I'm surprised you can even say a thing like that." Lavi coldly replied.

"What is that?! Vară snapped, now angered. "If I had been so incompetent, I might have been able to save...he might still be alive!"

"That man died in the line of duty, which he has been long since prepared for. I imagine he gave you an order to retreat, which you followed and should have as well. He died in order to save a teammate and so that his comrades could live to continue the campaign. Lavi said with her arms folded. Vară had began to shed some tears, but wasn't able to say anything in retort to Lavi's words.

"It is fine to mourn the man, as you should. If you need to honor him, do so by continuing to stay alive and aid us in continuing the fight. If you feel that you are lacking, train and become stronger. But, don't just sulk around and feel sorry for yourself, it cheapens the sacrifice that Sidnous made and it's disrespectful. Besides, it's rather unbecoming of a young heiress. You can come back to the center of the camp with me, or stay here and be alone with your thoughts for a while. I imagine you'll want to do the former.

With that, Lavinia turned around and went back to camp, and Vară indeed remained behind to consider the witch's words. She held her head down, which obscured her eyes from forward view. But, streaks of tears could be seen flowing down from her face, she gritted her teeth as she clenched her fists.

"Janus." She said. "I promise to get stronger, and next time I'll...I'll be strong enough to be of more use!"