'>>5947502

Usually, in polite society, it is seen as a social faux pas to leave a lady waiting in the rain. Especially if said lady is also alone in the middle of the capitol at night. As it continues to pitter-patter against the ground, forming large puddles, outside the trolly station stop you’re under you begin to think your father might have been right about the Inquisition. If this is their standard modem operandi then perhaps your skills would be better served elsewhere. If only you had better options available at the present moment.

Then your thoughts are brushed aside as you see a tall man with long hair walking directly towards you from across the street. You almost make the mistake of taking him for a common ruffian as once he gets closer you can make out raggedy torn clothes and an open wound at his hip, causing him to limp. However, before he gets too close he pulls out a medal depicting a spider lily from his coat pocket. He must be the inquisitor you’ve been waiting for, strange seeing as he can’t be much older than you. Has the Inquisition sent you to follow a novice?

“Lorina de Lindan, I presume?” The man asks once he steps under the small roof of the trolley station. The rain and tears have soaked any semblance of decency out of his uniform.

“Indeed, and you must be the Inquisitor I’m assigned to shadow?”

He nods, “Inquisitor Asher, call me whatever you want since you’ll probably be forced with me for at least a month.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you, honored Inquisitor,” You say with a small curtsy, years of etiquette training bring pleasantries out of you as if it were second nature.

However, it seems the Inquisitor deems fit to disregard the rituals of civilized society and makes no move to continue the pleasantries as he continues, “I made contact with the Stranger near the market on my way here. If we’re lucky we’ll be able to dispose of him before dawn. C’mon, follow me.”

The Inquisitor immediately turns and starts to move back into the rain but you feel your mouth opening on instinct before you can think about what you’re saying.

>”Wait! You’re hurt,” You bend down and start to heal his wound with your magic, you can’t stand to see someone in such a state. [Good-Natured]


>”Wait! What took you so long?” The last thing you expected from the Inquisition was to be kept waiting. You will be quite upset if they didn’t take your application seriously and continue to show you such disrespect. [Haughty]

>”Wait… Never mind let’s just go,” You end up deciding you’ll defer to the Inquisitor's fast-paced movements, he’s the more experienced in this line of work… At least that’s what you tell yourself. [Socially Akward]


>”Wait” [???] [Write-in]';

'>>5947506
>”Wait! What took you so long?” The last thing you expected from the Inquisition was to be kept waiting. You will be quite upset if they didn’t take your application seriously and continue to show you such disrespect. [Haughty]';

'>>5947506
>”Wait! What took you so long?”
I always liked the "Fallen Princess" trope, and this fits best with being a newly disgraced black sheep.

Also, you should inform the /qtg/ that you've started the isekai hunter quest you were talking about to get a few more people interested.';

'>>5947506
>”Wait! You’re hurt,” You bend down and start to heal his wound with your magic, you can’t stand to see someone in such a state. [Good-Natured]
I have been awaiting this';

'>>5947512
Don’t mind the ID change. I want to but I don’t know how to link threads like I’ve seen other people do for updates in the QTG. If I can figure that out I will.';

'>>5947520
Just copy the number of the first post in the thread';

'>>5947520
Shouldn't be too hard. Just...
>go to the /qtg/
>click the [Post a Reply] link at the bottom of the thread
>copy the spoilered text here >>5947502 and paste it a few times in the reply box
>add some text in the reply box saying what the quest is about and why someone should play it.

...and you're done.';

'>>5947506
>"Wait! Making me wait in the rain was extremely disrespectful, and I'll only forgive you this once because you're injured."[Haughty but secretly good-natured]';

'>>5947526
>>5947535
Thank you, anons. I’d be lost without you.';

'>>5947502
>”Wait! What took you so long?” The last thing you expected from the Inquisition was to be kept waiting. You will be quite upset if they didn’t take your application seriously and continue to show you such disrespect. [Haughty]';

'>>5947506
>”Wait! What took you so long?” The last thing you expected from the Inquisition was to be kept waiting. You will be quite upset if they didn’t take your application seriously and continue to show you such disrespect. [Haughty]

Good luck with the new quest!';

'>>5947506
>”Wait! What took you so long?” The last thing you expected from the Inquisition was to be kept waiting. You will be quite upset if they didn’t take your application seriously and continue to show you such disrespect. [Haughty]

This quest should be lots of fun';

'>>5947506
I wouldn't mind >>5947549 either.';

'>>5947550
No problem. If you're still taking suggestions for anime-isms, mind if I post them in here, or should I post them in the /qtg/?';

'>>5947506
>>"Wait! Making me wait in the rain was extremely disrespectful, and I'll only forgive you this once because you're injured."[Haughty but secretly good-natured]';

'>>5947506
>>”Wait” [???] [Write-in]
>"Wait a second you fat little cunt...!" You're gonna talk shit since he made you wait. [genuinely just a Bitch]';

'>>5947561
Changing actually to this >>5947549';

'>>5947567
I’m always open to new ideas and suggestions so feel free to post them here.';

'>>5947584
I don't want to play an Australian';

'>>5947506
>"...Must we?" [indolent]';

'>>5947591
Alright then, I've got one or two that have been percolating...

>Isekai'd dweeb's cheat skill is the ability to use his cellphone's internet connection to "invent" things like gunpowder, the printing press, the assembly line.
>the things he pulls up have either been made, are rendered obsolete due to magic, or requires dramatic shifts to cultural and social norms that would disrupt the current order.
>tries to do them anyway, but gets made and only barely escapes
>his carrier cancels his service a few days later due to ludicrous roaming charges and because they think someone stole his phone after his "kidnapping" and don't want to get sued by his parents
>he has to try to survive with the few actual resources he brought over, which isn't much

And...

>reports from the marketplace about a weirdo asking around for the slave market
>slavery was outlawed, so the inquisition team up with the city guard for a slavery sting/Stranger removal
>finds him at a Church run orphanage trying to buy an orphan thinking it's secretly a slaving operation
>after capture, research turns up that, yes, it's just a normal orphanage
>later, if the church is actually evil, it turns out that while it's still a normal orphanage, but it's being used to launder money';

'>>5947636
That was bri'ish, not 'strayan. Cunt isn't an insult in Australia.';

'>>5947652
>reports from the marketplace about a weirdo asking around for the slave market
>slavery was outlawed
Hey, stop reading a couple post ahead please! Not all of us here are time travelers. Actually though your first idea meshes very well with one I had for a Stranger down the line so I’m going to be making some more notes about that.

Sadly, doesn’t look like I’m going to be able to make an update tonight so I’m leaving the vote open till tomorrow. But I’ll still be able to post for a few more hours if needed. I’m really happy so many people have decided to vote, thank you all.';

'>>5947676
It really says a lot about isekais that the whole "buy a slave to become my adopted family" thing is so common in that genre... I mean, I guess you can try this if you want a subversion.

>after slave market weirdo gets bagged, an actual underground slave market gets taken down by the guard, who says something requiring the inquisition came up
>in exchange for life in prison instead of immediate execution, head slaver spills about a definite hideous looking Stranger purchasing one or two young children, made with a large amount of gold, apparently gotten through a cheat power involving exchanging his world's currency for it's worth in gold
>slaver has the feeling that the Stranger knew how to work through the underworld in Earth, suggesting he might have been a crime lord there
>after a lot of detective work involving going through purchaces of land, carpenters, stonemasons, laborers and animals a few dozen miles outside the kingdom, the inquisition finds the Stranger in a newly built mansion
>break in mansion, sneaking through to a door cracked open with light spilling through it
>inside it's picrel';

'>>5947794
Don't know why I left in the subversion bit, when it's exactly what I said it was...';

'>>5947549
Supporting';

'>>5947506
>"Wait! Making me wait in the rain was extremely disrespectful, and I'll only forgive you this once because you're injured."[Haughty but secretly good-natured]';

'>>5947510
>>5947512
>>5947555
>>5947563
4 votes for [Haughty]

>>5947516
1 to be a good girl

>>5947584
1 to be malty

>>5947641
1 for sloth

>>5947549
>>5947564
>>5947577
>>5947587
>>5948082
>>5948194
6 votes to become the dreaded [Tsundere].

Votes are now closed. I mean it's not like I'm writing for you or anything, baka!';

'>>5948265
“Wait!” You call out and affix the inquisitor with the firmest glare you can manage, “Making me wait in the rain was extremely disrespectful, and I’ll only forgive you this once because you’re injured!” To complete the scolding you fold your arms, huff, and pout. That’ll teach him! For sure!

“Uh, okay?” Urk! He looks more confused than anything- wait why is he poking at his wound? “Sorry, I didn’t even realize I took a hit. Be bad if I let it get infected, so thanks.” He then starts to pat himself down, clearly looking for something.

Looks like you’ll need to step in, like always, “I suppose that I can be courteous enough to rid you of this trouble. Remove your hand and I will heal the wound with my magics.”

“You know healing magic?”

“You can count it as one of my very many talents,” you state before you lean over to hover a hand near his wound. You don’t kneel even if that would make it easier, royalty does not kneel!

“That’s a pretty rare skill, you must be a pretty powerful MageKnight to pull off something like that.” You don’t miss the hidden question in that statement. You’re skilled so why are you here? Why is such a young and important noble waiting in the rain for some shady character at night? That’s what he must be wondering, the dog!

Well if he knew then there wouldn’t be a need for such stupid questions. You’re skilled, but not skilled enough. Bested by a commoner in all things, the disgrace! And despite it all you still would’ve ended the victor in the academy if you could just keep control of your blasted temper!

“Hey, you alright there?” The inquisitor dumbly states as he notices your gritted teeth.

You try and save as much face as you can, “Hmph, shows how little you know, but yes I am indeed finished. Just so you know I only did this because I couldn’t bear to keep looking at your pitiful state, don’t expect to get this kind of treatment again!” You say as you stand to your full height. It’s about enough to look the inquisitor square in the eyes. You’re more used to looking down on people.

Infuritatingly the inquisitor only chuckles at your menacing declaration, “Sure thing princess. I’ll try my hardest to not get stabbed in the future.”

“I believe that’s enough dallying, inquisitor. Weren’t you the one who was rushing just a moment ago? Well? Where is it that we need to depart to?”

“Right, sorry for the distraction. Come on, we can walk and talk,” he pauses for a moment, an oil lantern being lit in the dunderhead's skull, “That is unless the princess is opposed to getting a little wet?”

Idiot. You don’t rise to his taunt and take two calculated steps so you both dodge the first puddle and stand directly in the rain. Immediately you wish you didn’t do that as the winds and water mat your silver hair over your red eyes and makes you scramble to brush your locks away.';

'>>5948328
At least the inquisitor doesn’t stand to mock you, as your academy peers would, and steps into the rain to lead you to a side street, “Anyways, as I was saying I made contact with the Stranger in some alleys near the markets. Learned quite a bit in our scuffle too.”

“And that would be?” You question.

“Well, first I should start at the beginning. His exact location in the city was discovered by the Inquisition when someone made a report that a foreigner was looking for some sort of slave seller in the marketplace.”

“But slavery has been outlawed for centuries?”

“Exactly, it means he’s probably new and still figuring things out about this world. We’re lucky most of the people thought he was just an eccentric merchant from the Free States instead of panicking at an obvious Stranger.”

“So this man gets brought to our world and his first instinct is to look for a slave?! What sort of barbaric culture does he come from?”

“Here’s the kicker, slavery is illegal on Earth too. Means we’re dealing with a real piece of work here.”

“And you know this how?”

“Ah,” he stutters, “Guess when you’re in the business for long enough you pick up a few things.”

“I see, I suppose that means you do have some knowledge of value you may be able to instruct me on. That is acceptable.”

“Sure, anyways,” he turns a corner into a part of the city you’ve never ventured into before, a poor and cramped part, “I figured out the reason why during our scuffle. Looks like he has some sort of magic brand on his right hand that allows him to control people.”

“Magic to control people? That isn’t exactly something magic can do, I’ve studied it for years.”

“It’s his Cheat Skill, has to be, and Cheat Skills don’t have to make sense.”

You silently allow him to continue as you leap over a large and filthy puddle.

“I got caught off guard when some civilians with the same brand started charging me, must have been hit there.”

“And he got away in the confusion?”

“Yeah, then I decided to pick up you for backup.”

“Wait! You mean to say I was waiting at the station while all of this was happening?! Why? I could have assisted you! Do you think me incapable?!”';

'>>5948331
“Wait- Stop -Calm down!” He stresses, more panicked than mad, “I was going to get you but saw him while I was on my way, I had to take my chance.”

You glare, very threateningly you’re sure, “I suppose that is reasonable. I retract my previous statements, my apologies.”

“Whatever princess, just try not to be so loud, okay? I know it’s raining and we’re probably too far out for the Stranger to hear but you might wake the neighbors.”

Hopefully, the rain can hide your embarrassed blush, “Ah, again my apologies.”

“Right, so anyways you can see how bad the situation can get? We got a Stranger with mind control powers running around the largest city in the kingdom with its most important people.”

You stop dead in your tracks, the blush and all other color falling from your face, “Wait- my family-”

“Already has inquisitors guarding them, most nobles have seen the reports he was entering the city a few days ago.”

“A few days ago? How long have you been tracking him?”

“The Inquisition has known for about a week, maybe. Me personally? Since this morning when I was told I’d be your chaperone. He’s proven himself elusive so if we can’t catch him tonight the whole city is going to be put into marshall law.”

“This is rather serious then, is this supposed to be a test of my abilities? See if I can make it in the institution?”

“If that’s going to make you work harder then sure, more a coincidence than anything. Anyways we’re getting close to the market, do you have your weapon ready?”

“Of course, I never leave home without my-

>[Rapier] The standard weapon for both a MageKnight and Nobellady for its excellent conductivity for offensive magic and its elegant form.

>[Matchlock Pistol] Gunpowder is the new fad in noble society and of course, you’re up to date on all the newest trends. It even serves as a nice conduit for offensive magic.

>[???] [Write-In]

Before you reach the market do you wish to ask anything?

>???';

'>>5948333
>[great epee]A heavy two handed rapier, heavier than a normal one, but with a greater reach.';

'>>5948333
>>[???] [Write-In]
>Mace. It may be inelegant but no one levies insults after getting their skull caved in or arm shattered.';

'>>5948333
>>[Matchlock Pistol] Gunpowder is the new fad in noble society and of course, you’re up to date on all the newest trends. It even serves as a nice conduit for offensive magic.
SHOOT SPELL LIKE BULLET';

'>>5948333
>[Rapier] The standard weapon for both a MageKnight and Nobellady for its excellent conductivity for offensive magic and its elegant form.';

'>>5948333
>[Rapier] The standard weapon for both a MageKnight and Nobellady for its excellent conductivity for offensive magic and its elegant form.';

'>>5948333
Support >>5948394

A matchlock would be horrible in this rain.

>The branded people that attacked you, were they armed, if so, then with what? Did they wield magic?

>Wait, he's only been in the city a week, or the inquisition only learned about his presence a week ago? How long ago were we expelled? When was our honor duel? What if he had something to do with Albrecht's sudden betrayal of us? How else could he have fallen for the meagre wiles of Lyndale, and tore up a budding alliance between our two kingdoms if not for mind control?!';

'>>5948333
>Swiss saber, a two-handed weapon with a complex handguard';

'>>5948465
Dunno why but that reminded me that Messers exist and they're dope as fuck. Kriegsmessers and grossesmessers especially. Nice knife indeed.';

'>>5948333
As a matter of fact I'll change my vote

>>5948405
To
>[Kriegsmesser] A simple sword designed for war, discarding adornment for sheer utility';

'Also just to post more sword, a (sort of)basket hilted cutlass. Now with 102% more spikes.';

'>>5948405
Support, except it's not a mace it's just a big metal pipe';

'>>5948493
Based clang enjoyer.';

'>>5948493
>>5948333
I vote for pipe.... but a pipe that channels magic a bit better and has an actual hand grip to make up for the fact it's just a freaking metal pipe';

'>>5948394
>>5948486
Voting for two-handed sword. I'm fine with either stabbing or slashing.';

'>>5947794
All the benefits of a harem/friend by using money to buy them rather than putting the hard work and respecting their autonomy as people.

I am still waiting an isekai where the slaves just outright murder their 'master' in his sleep while far away from civilization or in a dungeon.';

'>>5948557
The nice thing about kriegsmessers is they're pretty well balanced and shaped. You can one hand them without issue despite the two-handed design.

I think anon is confusing the epee for an estoc. Or maybe not. Epees are dueling swords like a rapier but they weren't really made for pitched combat. They're nimble as fuck but they lack mass to really hurt anything unless you're thrusting. Sure you can cut people with it but it would be more painful than debilitating. Since they are by design smallswords I don't really know if you can "greatify" them. This is of course if we aren't considering the modern epee, which is just a floppy stick.';

'>>5948333
I'll switch to >>5948486';

'>>5948333
>write in
Estoc for bonus style';

'>>5948586
Or, he could be basing it off of Elden Ring's Heavy Thrusting Swords.

>>5948557
Fuckit, going fully for the "War Knife". Busty swordwomen are where it's at.';

'>>5948618
There are swords in Elden Ring other than the Greatsword?

I both love and hate Soulsgame weapons. They're so goofy and so wrong but also so cool and fun. Like they say the estoc has a bladed edge, which is wrong. Then they go and say the great epee is just a big rapier. Which is kind of right? They all look swag as fuck though.';

'All this talk about weapons... Give our character a new trait... she's secretly a otaku for all sorts of weapons!

If you are ever invited to her room, there will be racks upon racks of blades, polearms, wheel locks, flint locks, etc and two whole chests of maintenance equipment...';

'>>5948631
>"My my, lady, you have so much oil in here. Hmhmhmhmh"
>"Put that down! I need that for my fifteen baselards! The price of blade oil is going up."
Honestly, very amusing.';

'>>5948333
>[Matchlock Pistol] Gunpowder is the new fad in noble society and of course, you’re up to date on all the newest trends. It even serves as a nice conduit for offensive magic.

Gun
Magic Gun';

'>>5948394
1 for the [Great Epee]

>>5948409
>>5948645
2 for the [MAGIC GUN]

>>5948416
>>5948420
2 for the [Rapier]

>>5948612
1 for [Estoc]

>>5948465
1 for [Swiss Saber]

>>5948493
>>5948551
2 for [UngaBunga] (Chads)

>>5948486
>>5948599
>>5948557
3 for the [Kriegsmesser]

Please, God, tell me I counted right since voting is now closed. Shouldn't matter too much though because >>5948631 is now canon and other weapons can get their time to shine.

If I get anything wrong with how any of them work please correct me and I'll make sure it doesn't happen again, not much of a weapon otaku myself other than finding their designs cool.';

'>>5948655
>not much of a weapon otaku myself other than finding their designs cool.
>meanwhile anons are about to hit you with the DEEPEST LORE of the double digit number of rapier blade-types and how they fit into the idea of post-chivalry and romanticism';

'>>5948655
If you want a fun fact about the estoc, it could be used from horseback in a similar fashion to a spear or lance. In that you ride something down and use the momentum of the horse to pierce with the tip of the sword. You could also club someone to death with it, because they were very tough and rigid "blades" with no intended edge. Out of all the thrusting swords named, aside from modern epee foils it is the truest thrusting sword.';

'>>5948655
Well, there are a lot of things you’d rather bring with you instead of letting them rot at home. After so many weapons were left lying around your room, completely cared for and kept in perfect condition, of course, your father granted you a room in the palace to make your personal armory. Like all proper noblewomen, you have a particular fondness for swords and other instruments of death. It should also be stated that the care, maintenance, and creation of weaponry is a perfectly civilized hobby for the aristocracy to dabble in. Truly, you only really dabble and it’s everyone else's fault for looking so shocked when they enter your room and find your walls covered with bladed instruments.

Today, however, concerning the rain, you decided not to take the newest edition to your collection, the matchlock. Instead, you went back to your Kriegsmesser, your “war knife,” and an old favorite of yours. Sure it doesn’t have the elegance of your rapier, estoc, or saber. It’s certainly not as funny as that pipe you picked up one time to disrespect that one obnoxious student who sought to embarrass you in a duel. But it’s been with you through thick and thin, and elegance isn’t exactly something you need when hunting Strangers in the rain, the utility of the sword will be much more valuable.

“Hey, princess you still there?”

“Uh, wha-?” Oh my, it would seem you zoned out thinking about your arsenal, bloody hel- “I mean, certainly! Of course I am here, why wouldn’t I be?”

“You know I can see the sword on your hip, is that what you’ll be using?”

“Correct,” you pull your baby out of its sheath, “This is…”

>My Kriegsmesser [You do not name your weapons]
>[Write-in the name of your sword]

Then you return her to her rightful place at your side. You are normal about your weaponry, everyone else is wrong for thinking you’re weird. The hobby that you only very slightly dabble in is not at all “barbaric” or “unladylike” as some of your female peers would exclaim. At least the noblemen understood you… Most of them anyways.

“Inquisitor, before we begin our search at the markets there is something I wished to ask you.”

“Shoot.”

“The people who attacked you, what did they wield? Did you get caught off guard by any magic?”

“No, nothing like that. They were in a crowd before the fighting began and pretended to be gawkers during it. Thankfully, they were only commoners and only had knives and other sharp things you can find around a house… It was a little girl that got me, I hesitated trying to disarm her.”

“You did not try to kill those who were under the Stranger's control?”

“Tried not to, didn’t know if I succeeded or not. Didn’t stick around after the fact to find out. I’m hoping once the bastard is dealt with the Cheat Skill’s effects will vanish.”

“Will they?”

You can’t hear it over the rain but you see the inquisitor let out a shuttering breath, “That’s impossible to know.”';

'>>5948760
“Then should I?” You don’t finish the question. You’ve never taken a life before.

“That’s up to you to decide, I won’t fault you either way.”

“I’m not sure if that is reassuring or not.”

“I’m not either.”

You ponder for a second if somehow Albrecht fell under the sway of the Stranger, but you have to disregard that notion. The Honor Duel was more than a month ago, right before summer break, and the Stranger has only been known for about a week. It’s not like the Honor Duel was the first time he disregarded you either, throughout the three years you were at the Academy you were always neglected by him, no matter how hard you tried to win his favor. It hurt, and it still does but… You’re not sure you can hope that he was under the control of a Stranger just to make the breaking of your betrothal more digestible. It would be too cruel.

He was so sweet when you were both children, when you were both friends, even if you could only meet twice a year. What could have made him fall for that gold-digging harlot, Lyndale?

“Inquisitor, remind me again how long the Inquisition has known about the stranger?”

“Alright, so what I know is that another inquisitor was in a hamlet near the capitol where some dude was found lost in the forest. Some serious freaky cultist stuff was happening in the hamlet, that’s why she was called in the first place. Then she deduced the two events were related and acted against the Stranger’s little harem cult. The stranger then goes and flees to the capital and all that was about a week ago. According to my colleague, he couldn’t have been in the village for more than a week with how the cult was only just starting so one week we’ve known about him and two he’s been in this world is our best guess.”

So Albrecht’s betrayal and the Stranger couldn’t possibly be connected... You can’t place the emotions you’re feeling.

“Alright, princess we’re here, the markets,” The inquisitor says as the two of you walk out of a cramped alley and into the nearly deserted square near the center of the city. You can even see your house, the royal palace, in the distance.

The markets are an interesting location, one you can’t say you frequent but you are familiar with. It functions much like a bazaar one might find in more eastern countries with hundreds of stalls manned by independent, or not-so-independent, merchants. Your history tutors have taught you that it, and many markets like it, were created around the adventuring and monster-hunting profession due to the need to acquire many unique and often rare materials in their line of work. It then expanded to accommodate more normal trades until the point some entire towns were given different fief obligations due to their “market town” status. Or well, that’s what your tutors told it. It’s not like you specifically inquired about the subject of adventures to see where you could expand your weapon collection or anything!';

'>>5948765
The Grand Market of the Royal Capitol is an open-air market, with stalls dividing the plaza it’s in into a series of pathways between them. It is currently devoid of life due to both the late hour and the storm. To accommodate your mental point lightning strikes in the distance causing thunder to resound within the area.

“Alright, princess let’s get to work. I don’t expect the Stranger to be out in the open but he should still be around here somewhere. Can’t have gone far with the broken leg I gave him,” he lets out a sound that's a mix of a chuckle and laugh, “Trolleys were already stopped for the night by the time I saw him, and the storm is harsh enough most won’t be driving carts anytime soon. Meaning the Inquisition has enough resources to check everyone that leaves the city.”

“So all the cards are currently in our favor?”

“As much as they’ll ever be in this job, now where do we start rookie?”

“Wait, you’re asking me?”

“Well, if you can’t think of anything I have a hunch or two but I want to see your deduction skills. They’re vital to your continued survival in the Inquisition.”

So it’s a test, well if the inquisitor is hoping to see you fail then he’ll be sorely disappointed.

>”Look at that trolley station, I can see two figures through the glass even though the next ones won’t be until the morning” [Investigate the Trolley Station]

>”There’s light in the building with a sign, it’s the only place on this side of the street that has their lights on,” [Investigate the Lit Building]

>”I think I see some people by that stall over there, everyone should have packed and gone home by now,” [Investigate the Market-goers]

Those three are the only things of note that you can investigate right now but that doesn’t mean that’s the only thing you can do right now. You can also ask Inquisitor Asher questions or perform other actions in the market.

>??? [Write-in]';

'>>5948760
>Sturmreiter

Actually wrote it out before refreshing and seeing the third post. Fitting though.

>>5948765
Appreciate including my write ins even if no one voted for them.

>>5948769
>”I think I see some people by that stall over there, everyone should have packed and gone home by now,” [Investigate the Market-goers]

We can check them for brands and ask them if they saw an limping person recently, assuming they aren't controlled. I don't think he'd only have one person with him. He'd probably feel safer with his minion all about him, or he'd try and hide. Alternatively he'd rush into a building to try and find a healer to mind control. The lit building could just be everyone choosing to save power/candles and gather about for discussion about the fight that broke out or the storm.';

'>>5948760
>>[Write-in the name of your sword]
Part of me wants to just play it straight. Let the swords speak for themselves. The other part of me is telling me to give silly names.
>"Hairsplitter". It is very good at settling arguments.

>>5948769
>>”There’s light in the building with a sign, it’s the only place on this side of the street that has their lights on,” [Investigate the Lit Building]
Knock knock who the fuck's home?';

'>>5948769
>[Write-in the name of your sword]
Sophia
Due to a comment from our cousin that we lack 'wisdom' upon seeing our collection.


>”There’s light in the building with a sign, it’s the only place on this side of the street that has their lights on,” [Investigate the Lit Building]

The people at the station might be someone just trying to stay out of the rain. Given our target has a broken leg, he'd probably want to get that treated away from the sight of other people. I doubt he wants to be outside.';

'>>5948776
Sturmfahrerin might be nice. Has the feminine touch to it, similar enough connotations. Blitzreiter if you want more ERIKA for your vibe lmao.';

'>>5948760
>[Write-in the name of your sword]
I'm not sure what, but if we're using a German style sword, might as well stick with the language... maybe Schatzi, for treasure or darling?

>”There’s light in the building with a sign, it’s the only place on this side of the street that has their lights on,” [Investigate the Lit Building]';

'>>5948784
Sure, the former though. lol not looking for those sorts of implications';

'>>5948760
>[Write-in the name of your sword]
Slicer #4
>>5948769
>”I think I see some people by that stall over there, everyone should have packed and gone home by now,” [Investigate the Market-goers]';

'>>5948760
>The Throngler
The ultimate name

>>5948769
>”There’s light in the building with a sign, it’s the only place on this side of the street that has their lights on,” [Investigate the Lit Building]
A bit meta, but this is exactly the point where an isekai MC would be helped by a random girl who hides him in her dwelling.';

'>>5948769
> Wifecutter
>”I think I see some people by that stall over there, everyone should have packed and gone home by now,” [Investigate the Market-goers]';

'>>5948777
>>5948779
>>5948788
>>5948946
4 to investigate the building

>>5949007
>>5948847
>>5948776
3 to question the market-goers

Closing the vote so I can start writing. Expect the update in about 2 hours time. The vote on your swords name however will remain open until the update drops.';

'>>5949036
>tfw we have every single name option under the sun
>once each
Maybe we should subvote it before we have the entire catalogue of sword names in existence on the voting block kek';

'>>5949036
“There’s light in the building with a sign, it’s the only place on this side of the street that has their lights on,” you say while pointing to a decently sized building across the plaza.

When you turn to look at the inquisitor you see him looking… Impressed, “That would’ve been my first choice too, though I think for different reasons. Do you know what that building is?”

You think for a second about lying to make yourself look smarter but disregard the notion. You’ve done that before and only ended up looking like a larger idiot, “No, I don’t.”

“It’s the Dawn’s Light, an inn with more adventurous clientele. If you look to the building left of it you see it’s a branch of the Adventurers Guild. Not exactly the kind of place one would imagine a princess would like to spend her time at.”

Wait, does he know? You try and analyze his face for any hidden taunt but can’t see anything. Maybe he’s making a jab at your status and not your completely normal fascination? Or maybe- ah, he started walking away.

“Um, not that I wouldn’t have inferred, I definitely would in time, but since time is naturally of the essence why is that place the first one you’d search?” You ask.

“Well, since time is of the essence I won’t bore you with the long-winded theoretical reason, naturally. Instead, just remember that Strangers tend to be drawn to the Adventurer’s Guild and adventurers for one reason or another.”

“And that is why you would investigate an area with them first?”

“That and adventurers are some of the most dangerous people out there, if the Stranger got a few of them under control it’d be hell in a handbasket.”

“So you would want to deal with the problem before it can fester? I suppose that is a logical enough conclusion to make, good job.”

“...Why are you acting like you’re the mentor here?”

It feels weird walking through a market that usually has so much life in it while it’s deserted. You can count the times you’ve been here in person on one hand, and that was surrounded by guards, but through the palace windows, it always seemed so alive. Even at night, there was still a healthy amount of activity, all above board being so close to the palace, but with the storm, the inquisitor and you are practically the only people here.

That is except for the building you’re rapidly approaching. Even from outside you can hear the sounds of boisterous laughs and outraged yells. Through the brightly lit windows, figures dance and act rowdy as they engage in what only commoners would refer to as a party. It looks and sounds like nothing you’ve participated in before and as you open the door and step inside with the inquisitor it all stops, immediately. What a shame.';

'>>5949117
“Oliver! I heard the party from outside, what’s the good news?” The inquisitor strides into the establishment with a wide smile and false cheer air around him. How he switches from one persona to another reminds you of many nobles you’ve met.

“Inquisitor, you’re soaked.” The big man behind the counter states as he goes to clean a class, using his hand with a large bloody bandage on it to do so. Two people awkwardly pay and shuffle out of the establishment behind you, “If you must know the Purse Puncher,” he gestures to a group of four youths with his bandaged hand all of their hands are under the table, “had a big payout from hunting dire wolves. Now who's your friend? This is the first time I’ve seen you with company.”

“Ouch, Oliver that hurts,” the inquisitor feigns being hurt, “And you mean to tell me you don’t recognize her? Hmm, maybe that’s why you’re not showing proper respect. Don’t worry Princess Lorina de Lindan is an agreeable sort!” Why did he just reveal who you are? What’s he doing?

The bartender, Oliver, looks a bit nervous suddenly, “Ah, my apologies your highness. Please, there’s a booth in the back, I’ll get Clarice to get you some towels in just one moment.” With that, he retreats behind a door that is itself behind the counter and starts yelling for someone.

“Right this way, Your Highness let us enjoy this establishment's hospitality. Wouldn’t want you to tire your legs now,” the inquisitor says as he leads you to the booth furthest from the door and closest to the stairs which a sign lets you know is leading to ‘Resting Quarters’ for a price that’s shockingly low to you. Three more people leave the inn.

As the inquisitor nestles himself into the booth, back facing the door, you take a seat opposite him and witness his face morph back into a completely neutral expression. “Well?” He says in a deadpan the complete opposite of his fake cheer.

“Well, what?”

“What do we do next, rookie?”

>”We should wait for Clarice to give us towels,” Then the bartender will be back and you can ask him actual questions. Also, you’re soaked, and that’s not a nice state to be in.

>”We should go and talk to these ‘Purse Punchers,’ I’m suspicious of them.”

>”The bartender is obviously suspicious we should pull our weight and demand to be allowed to investigate the Inn, under threat of action.” You want to go in guns blazing.

>”We should leave, I think it’s wrong to stay here.”

>[Write-in]';

'>>5949115
I'm pretty sure Sturmfahrerin has two votes. I'll be appropriating the other names if you guys bring more weapons out of your arsenal. Also, you're all Germaboos.';

'>>5949118
>”We should wait for Clarice to give us towels,” Then the bartender will be back and you can ask him actual questions. Also, you’re soaked, and that’s not a nice state to be in.
He said the mind-controlled people had symbols on their hands? Then the bartender may be hiding one under his bandages. We should isolate him and confirm it';

'>>5949118
>”The bartender is obviously suspicious we should pull our weight and demand to be allowed to investigate the Inn, under threat of action.” You want to go in guns blazing.';

'>>5949118
>>”We should wait for Clarice to give us towels,” Then the bartender will be back and you can ask him actual questions. Also, you’re soaked, and that’s not a nice state to be in.';

'>>5949118
Supporting >>5949136 especially the write in part. Ask to speak privately.';

'>>5949118
>”We should hide and ambush Clarice as he comes back to give us towels, I'm 99% sure he's going to be bringing the Stranger with him to enslave us."';

'>>5949118
>”We should wait for Clarice to give us towels,”
Yeah, him and the freelance fraternity of fetchers DEFINITELY aren’t part of that Stranger’s gang… (wink wink)';

'>>5949136
>>5949153
Don’t forget the barflies in the corner trying to be inconspicuous about their hands.';

'>>5949170
I remember, but I want to confirm with one before potentially alerting a group all at once that we are on to them.';

'>>5949118

>”We should wait for Clarice to give us towels,” Then the bartender will be back and you can ask him actual questions. Also, you’re soaked, and that’s not a nice state to be in.

We should find a way to offer to heal the bartender's wounds. After all, you have noblesse oblige and all that.';

'>>5949115
We have a frickin' armory of weapons. Even if one name gets chosen, whose to say those other names don't belong to the other killing implements we have at home.

We mind as well let our imagination run wild on such a low stake vote.';

'>>5949213
Well because we need one specifically for this one, specifically. It's important. You can't call your halberd the "lil sticker" since it is clearly the "hydra", you know? And of course "Lady" is a good name for a rapier but not a two-bit axe. To say nothing of "Marie" which is obviously the name of a rondel or triangle-shaped dagger. The Throngler is too powerful. It must remain unseen in a sealed container.';

'>>5949225
>can’t call a big two-bitted axe “Lady”
Real anons can appreciate a big girl, especially the top heavy ones.';

'>>5949232
It's not the size it's the status. A Lady for a lady. Clearly a big double sided axe is a Bertha. Or a Gloria. Maybe a Dearest if you're feeling sweet.';

'>>5949233
Come on, anon, haven't you heard of Gap-Moe? Everyone's heard the stereotype of calling larger women/weapons Bertha, but Lorina puts more thought into naming her darling weapons.

I'm beginning to imagine Lorina likes sleeping with her favorites in her bed like normal girly girls do with plush toys.';

'>>5949256
Bertha isn't a big woman's name, it's the name of a woodsman's wife. Come on man. All you think about are appearances. You'll never meet a nice girl that way.

She gets mad if you don't put the three (to everyone else) imperceptibly different clubs on the wrong side of the bed. Just like those weird girls who aren't into weapons do with pillows.';

'>>5949136
>>5949147
>>5949153
>>5949168
>>5949210
5 votes to wait

>>5949139
>>5949167
2 for a more violent approach

Votings closed, looks like you're going to try and isolate the bartender and hope he slips up. Updates might get a bit shorter since we're now in an "action sequence" that may require dice rolls.

>>5949256
>>5949268
You know I wasn't exactly expecting Lorina to end up as a tsundere weapons otaku but I'm certainly not complaining. All I can say is that Albrecht managed to fumble a Best Girl.';

'>>5949290
>All I can say is that Albrecht managed to fumble a Best Girl.
Makes it to a first down and immediately trips over his own laces. What a fool he is.';

'>>5949290
>>5949291
Well, you can't exactly blame him... Office Ladies isekai'd into otome game protagonists must have some sort of fujoshi pheromone that make handsome rich men go buckwild trying to flirt with them while looking like they want to have angry sex with each other.';

'>>5949296
No wonder she wants to get rid of these strangers.';

'>>5949296
:)
>>5949290
“We wait,” is all you whisper to the inquisitor who gives a nod in return.

He doesn’t speak and neither do you as more patrons file out of the tavern, either going upstairs to their rooms or out the door. An inquisitor silently waiting with royalty in a dingy bar isn’t a sight you see every day. The mere presence of the two of you seems to be unnerving enough to cause some people to turn tail and run. It’s like the adventures have a sixth sense that tells them something bad is about to happen. Though you see a couple loitering outside the establishment, perhaps hoping to catch you if you decide to leave. Soon enough the only occupants in the tavern are the inquisitor, you, and the Purse Punchers. Goddess, it’s such a stupid name.

Even still you can feel your heart quickening as the silence drags on. Like the moment right before a duel yet so much worse. In a duel, the only thing you have to worry about is an accident or complete humiliation, but this isn’t a duel. You’ve entered a lion’s den while cold, wet, and tired, you’re about to face a Stranger, and Strangers are dangerous. How is the inquisitor managing to stay so calm!?

A knock breaks you out of your anxiety episode, you notice it’s the inquisitor's knuckles hitting the table. He nods his head over to the door the bartender went through and mouths the words, ‘Get ready,’ before slowly resting the same hand near the hilt of his sheathed sword.

Soon enough the door opens revealing Oliver ushering in a small woman, who looks more like an adventurer than a bartender, holding towels with both her hands. Her glove-covered hands. “Hi! So you must be her Royal Highness, it’s an honor to have you at the Dawn’s Light!” The girl says as she practically bounces towards you handing you all but one of the towels. That one going to the inquisitor.

As to not be rude or reveal that you know, they know, that there’s a Stranger here you take the towels without so much as a thank you. It is best to keep up your haughty noble appearance. Then you throw the first towel onto your face and dry your head off, you’re certain you do so with elegance and grace that fits only the highest of nobility. At least Oliver and Clarice seem to think so as they keep staring at you with “warm” smiles.

The inquisitor doesn’t even try to hide his laugh as he sets his towel on the table without drying himself.

“Mr. Oliver, sir, you appear to be hurt. Is everything alright with your hand?” You decide to lay your cards out early hoping to catch him off guard. At the other side of the table, the inquisitor slightly nods in approval.

“Oh, that’s nothing you need to worry about, Your Highness, some lads got a bit rowdy and there was an accident with some broken glass. Doesn’t even hurt, see?” Oliver completely his point by waving his right hand into the air. There’s not even a wince from the pain a wound that causes that much blood should have.';

'>>5949323
“Sir, I really must insist it would dishonor me to allow my citizens to perform their honest labor while hurt,” You continue, pressing on the issue.

The bartender scratches the back of his head, with his “hurt” hand, the idiot, “Aw, shucks Your Highness, and please call me Oliver but I’m afraid-”

“Daddy!” Clarice whines, cutting into the conversation, “You can’t just refuse her Royal Highness like that! And I don’t want to see you hurt too!” Crocodile tears accompanied by a pout and finger wave, a noble lady’s special move. Somehow this commoner girl seems to have perfected it.

The large bartender seems to get an idea as his face lights up before he very hastily hides his expression, “Oh well, I suppose it can’t be helped now, can it? Your Highness if you’d be so kind could you follow us to the backroom? I got myself some medicine I’d like to disinfect the wound with before you cast any magic on it.” Perhaps if the commoner knew better he wouldn’t make such a completely idiotic statement. You don’t need to disinfect a wound before casting healing magic, it would be insanity if you did.

The inquisitor raises an eyebrow at you.

>”Of course, please after you,” as you stand you give the inquisitor a gesture to the Purse Punchers

>”Actually on second thought…” You’d rather not walk into a trap even if you know it is one.

>[Write-in]';

'>>5949324
>”Of course, please after you,” as you stand you give the inquisitor a gesture to the Purse Punchers
But also send Clarice away, e.g. to get more towels, so that we don't face them together';

'>>5949324
>”Of course, please after you,” as you stand you give the inquisitor a gesture to the Purse Punchers
I guess we're doing this';

'>>5949324
>"Not to worry. Healing magic disinfects the wound magically, so you won't have to waste any expensive medicine on it. If you doubt my efficacy, please ask my last patent. Isn't that right, Inquisitor?"
So, is Clarice wearing gloves on her hands, or are they bare?';

'>>5949324
>”Actually on second thought…” You’d rather not walk into a trap even if you know it is one.';

'>>5949338
Clarice is wearing gloves on both her hands.';

'>>5949323
>>5949338

>revealing Oliver ushering in a small woman, who looks more like an adventurer than a bartender, holding towels with both her hands. Her glove-covered hands.';

'>>5949343
>>5949344
...How'd I miss that?';

'>>5949324
>>”Of course, please after you,” as you stand you give the inquisitor a gesture to the Purse Punchers';

'>>5949324
>>5949338
Actually this anon may be illiterate but I like the cut of his vote, I'll back';

'>>5949268
You're right.
The name for a hard-bitten battle-tested axe is 'Warspite'... with her own nickname as 'The Grand Old Lady'

Come on, take a page out from the same book of perfidious Albion in naming tradition. Too much Germaboo.';

'>>5949324
>>[Write-in]
Tell him to bring a bottle of high proof booze, you'll disinfect right at the bar.
Say you'll treat the Purse Punchers to what remains of it.';

'>>5949391
Actually, how about an Italian name... Eleonora, for Merciful, which is also a name for that stylin' DS3 axe in the Profaned Capital dropped by a giant finger baby monster.';

'>>5949391
The best things from Albion are from the people who don't want to be a part of it. Their vaunted longbow is Welsh! Just wait until the Chinese names start coming out. Nobody is ready for "The blade of seven-hundred mornings' dew". "Sky Piercer" is fucking legit though.

I don't get where the Germaboo is coming from though. So far there are only two names that are straight up Muh Doichlang. And they're for a German sword no less. I can't wait for a highland claymore to pop up so we can all make drunk choking sounds in our best faux Scottish accents. Depending on the time period, a claymore is either the big fucker with the cross hilt, or a one-handed basket hilted broadsword. Ah language.';

'>>5949392
>>5949390
>>5949338
Just to be clear these votes are to not isolate the man as he leads you into the obvious trap so he can take you to the Stranger and instead, you want to stay in the main room?';

'>>5949457
Yep. I've got that scene from Inherent Vice in my mind, where the stoner detective gets clocked from behind with a bat in the massage parlor. There, he just gets tossed outside next to a dead body with the police pulling up. Here, with a mind controlling pervert slaver around? Could go much worse.';

'>>5949457
I just wanted to give him a bit of trouble and see what excuses he'd come up with to get us in the back room.';

'>>5949331
>>5949375
2 votes to be lead into the trap, hoping that he doesn't know that you know that he knows.

>>5949338
>>5949341
>>5949390
>>5949392
4 votes to do something else, mostly make the man struggle.

The vote is now locked for what will be the last update of the night and some dice rolls to follow.';

'I've got three ducats on that the barkeep doesn't even have a daughter.';

'>>5949479
“Oh, don’t worry Sir Oliver, healing magic doesn’t require any sort of disinfectant. I’d hate to have you waste expensive medicine.”

“Oh, uh, are you sure? I’d be no trouble to use it, so you wouldn’t need to worry.”

“I’m quite sure, isn’t that right inquisitor? You see he was my last patient.”

“Yup, She didn’t need anything but her own magic to heal me up last I checked, Oliver. It was such a dire wound too, I was practically crying in pain and now I’m right as rain! So it should require even less for your meager wound that doesn’t hurt at all!” The inquisitor is enjoying this too much. His fake cheer contorts itself into smug mockery as the bartender starts to sweat from his nerves.

“A-are you sure? I mean it would be improper for me to undo the bandage right here in the open.”

“And it would somehow be more proper for a youthful and beautiful princess, like myself, to follow a grown man into the backroom of his bar?” You say with faux innocence.

“I- I mean uh, Clarice would be right there too!”

“Hey! Stop being mean to my daddy! You’re making a scene in front of the customers!” Clarice starts to do a mixture of yelling and whining towards the two of us, clearly seeing the situation get out of hand.

“Well, it doesn’t look like there’s anyone else here other than the wolf-slayers over there. Surely, we can’t be that bad?” The inquisitor inquires.

“Oh, you’re right inquisitor! Maybe we could get them an expensive bottle in celebration of completing their quest!” You shout, gaining everyone in the room’s attention, “We could even use a little to ‘disinfect’ you’re wound if you’re still hung up on that!” You say like it’s the smartest idea in the world.

The inquisitor is trying his very hardest not to laugh.

“Or- uh, I suppose that wouldn’t be a bad idea, but miss I really need you to-”

Too bad for the bartender you’re already out of your seat, followed swiftly by the inquisitor, “Oh, maybe I’ve done something wrong seeing as you’re at a loss for words, my apologies the customs of the low class are so hard to follow at times,” You say with very fake disappointment, “But I do really need to see your hand, please unbandage it.”

“I-i can’t, miss-”

“And you seriously going to ignore an order from her Royal Highness, Oliver?” The inquisitor’s tone suddenly has a dangerous edge. If the situation was any different you’d think he was being serious.

“N-no! It’s just that I-i-”

The bartender is once again cut off not by you or the inquisitor, but by a mumble, “This has gone on long enough,” and the sound of a drawing sword. The drawing of Clarice's sword. Right before its sharp edge swings directly towards you.';

'>>5949537
Only to be met with steel.

Sturmfahrerin is a large girl, yet one you can still hold with ease in one hand. After all, you’ve been with her for much of your life, you know her in and out, and one hand is all you need to parry the blow from the “swordswomen” you now face. Caught off guard her strike goes wide and carries her blow into a booth, tearing it apart and forcing her to have to yank it out, with little immediate success.

Before you can press the attack you you feel a large rush of air blow past you as Oliver is knocked over the countertop, unconscious. You have no idea how the much more slender inquisitor managed such a feat but truly it matters little at the present moment. “Jesus Christ, I was right. Hell in a handbasket.” He mumbles as he draws his sword and steps behind you, facing down the rising quartet of novice adventurers and the two people who were loitering outside.

In front of you, Clarice begins to finally recover.

“Well, rookie what’s our game plan?” The inquisitor asks.

>”I’ll deal with Clarice and try to find the Stranger as you deal with the others.” Will require a [DC 16 Roll]

>”I’ll deal with everyone in here if you can find the Stranger.” Will require a [DC 14 Roll]

>”Let’s deal with everyone here, together, then we’ll look for the Stranger,” Will require a [DC 10 Roll] The Stranger may have time to try and flee if there are people inside to help him.

>[Write-in] I will assign a DC once a write-in is locked in. More creative and thought-out plans will get lower DCs

Rolls will begin when the voting is closed and for now, will simply be 3d20 with crits each d20 rolled by a separate person. These mechanics are subject to change in the future I just want to try them out.';

'>>5949539
Perhaps we can lower the DCs if we inform them that the person they're assisting is a slaver stranger wanted for sex trafficking? It probably won't work completely, but it might be enough to get them to resist their orders or slow them down.';

'>>5949539
>>”I’ll deal with everyone in here if you can find the Stranger.” Will require a [DC 14 Roll]
Hey, he broke that bitchass stranger's leg last time they fought. Ain't no way the inquisitor drops the ball again now that he knows how insidious this mind control shit can be. Dickass stranger using kids. Fuck em.';

'>>5949539
>”I’ll deal with everyone in here if you can find the Stranger.” Will require a [DC 14 Roll]
>Jesus Christ
So some Stranger did nanage to becone a cultural influence?';

'>>5949539
>>”I’ll deal with Clarice and try to find the Stranger as you deal with the others.” Will require a [DC 16 Roll]';

'>>5949539
>”I’ll deal with everyone in here if you can find the Stranger.” Will require a [DC 14 Roll]';

'>>5949695
>So some Stranger did nanage to becone a cultural influence?
Good catch. Maybe.

>>5949546
>>5949695
>>5949752
3 votes to fight the guards

>>5949715
1 vote to find the stranger yourself

>>5949544
1 vote to try diplomacy

Vote is now closed. Can I get some d20 rollin?';

'Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>5949797';

'Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>5949797';

'>>5949802
>>5949811
going to keep the last roll open instead of rolling it myself since I won't be able to write the update before 5 (UTC-4) today unless the next anon rolls very soon. Wait times might get a bit longer during the week in general but I'm going to try and update at least once a day and I'll be sure to tell you guys if I can't.

Also, the next roll decides whether you succeed or fail, no pressure.';

'Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>5949797
>no pressure';

'>>5949802
>>5949811
>>5949846
>13
Well, it could be worse than a Slight Faliure

Writing.';

'>>5949852
“I’ll deal with everyone in here, Inquisitor. You go find the Stranger!” You command.

The inquisitor doesn’t say anything, simply choosing to vault over the countertop and kick his way into the back room. Leaving you completely surrounded. The bastard. Immediately you feel a tingling sensation on the back of your neck and leap for cover as a beam of electric energy is sent hurdling past you, from the Purse Puncher’s little mage.

“I don’t suppose I could get you all to stand down by saying a perverted slaver is mind-controlling you?”

Clarice takes another swing at you accompanied by a loud “HYAH!” as four of the adventurers behind you charge.

“I didn’t think so.”

The only world that can adequately sum up the next few moments is chaos, complete and utter chaos. One second a kid in homemade armor is attempting to run you through with his dagger, the next Sturmfahrerin sends him flying into the expensive liquor on the top shelf. An archer lets loose an arrow from the exit door only for it to find perch in Clarice’s shoulder instead of yours. The mage chants while holding her staff in your direction, only to find that a two-handed swing from your messer is more than enough to chop a twig in half.

No one here is as skilled as you, how could they be? You’ve been trained by the very best tutors in the kingdom. But this is also the first time you’ve had to face so many opponents. You’re bound to slip up eventually. And slip up you do.

Four of your opponents are unconscious and you allow yourself a moment to try and strategize. Only for to much of your concentration went to trying to solve the issue of the archer, if only you had your matchlock, which makes you forget Clarice isn’t totally out of the picture. Then before you know it a cry of pain spews forth from you as your back gains a long slashing wound. On reflex, you turn around to deal with Clarice only for an arrow to lodge itself in your calf.

For a second your body lurches downwards from the shock, and you see Clarice bring her sword up high, for a decapitating strike. You panic, magic fills your arms and runs up the length of your sword, superheating it, as you bring it to deflect the blow. You expect to block the blow, not for Sturmfahrerin to cut straight through it. Who doesn’t use battle magic to reinforce their weapon? Nevertheless, your strike continues upward, and you barely manage to avoid killing Clarice. Her right eye and side of her face, however, are instantly cauterized.

She falls to the floor screaming bloody murder.';

'>>5949879
You feel you should act more seeing the gruesome display, perhaps gag or reel back in shock as you’ve seen people do in tournament accidents. In honorable duels. But the adrenaline inside your body doesn’t allow you to, you’re no longer surrounded. You force healing magic into your wounds to allow yourself to stand, though you can feel its effects weakening, you’re getting too exhausted. But you have enough in you to stand and press your advantage.

What’s left of the guards here are two members of the Purse Punchers, their fighter and staffless mage, and the archer from outside. Everyone except the archer takes a step back as they see you rise and focus all your attention on them. You’re not sure how much longer you can keep fighting, but they don’t know that.

Then you hear someone behind you start to head down the stairs, possibly reinforcements, or someone alerted by the fighting and screaming you’re not sure.

What do you do?

>Contue to focus on the fight downstairs [DC 13]

>Run upstairs to confront whoever is coming [DC 17]

>Run into the back room to find the inquisitor [DC 14]

>[Write-in]';

'>>5949879
>>Run into the back room to find the inquisitor [DC 14]';

'>>5949881
>>Contue to focus on the fight downstairs [DC 13]';

'>>5949881
>Continue to focus on the fight downstairs [DC 13]
Clean this up before taking on anything else';

'>>5949881
>Contue to focus on the fight downstairs [DC 13]
Attack the archer with thrown bottles?';

'>>5949881
>>Run upstairs to confront whoever is coming [DC 17]';

'>>5949881
>Contue to focus on the fight downstairs [DC 13]';

'>>5949881
>Continue to focus on the fight downstairs [DC 13]
Oof, I hope healing magic can fix that... Maybe we can make it up to her by letting her pull the lever for the guillotine during the execution!';

'>>5949890
1 to go help your colleague

>>5949932
1 to go upstairs

>>5949895
>>5949899
>>5949911
>>5949940
>>5949948
5 to keep fighting these mob characters.

The vote is now closed, can I get some rolls?';

'Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>5950050';

'Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>5950050';

'Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>5950050';

'>>5950052
>>5950053
>>5950054
I can't tell whether you guys are lucky or unlucky. Regardless that's a Success. Writing.';

'>>5950058
You think for a moment of leaving the battle here and suspecting yourself to being chased so that you might have a more agreeable advantage, but as another arrow whiffs your body you disregard those thoughts. The mage looks to be about useless due to her lack of a staff but the fighter stands between you and the archer. You lament your lack of ranged attack for only a second as you see an expensive-looking whisky bottle. You doubt it’s actually expensive, only to these peasants it might be.

You’re no stranger to improvised weapons, the pipe speaks for itself, and the bottle does its job well. Sailing right over the short adventurers and impacting the forehead of the archer, bringing him out of the fight. Blood and alcohol aren’t exactly substances you’d want to wash out of your eyes. Especially not with rainwater as the archer seems to be trying as he rushes out the door.

Seeing everything go wrong on their front the mage and fighter seem lost on what to do before the latter settles on simply charging you with a loud yell. It takes only two swings to disarm him, three to knock him prone, and a kick to make him go unconscious.

The Stranger only had time to get the lowest of the low, huh? It almost makes you think this was set up by the Inquisition more than you know. Or perhaps inquisitor Asher really did just stumble across him and scared him hard enough he was desperate to take over anyone he could.

The mage girl doesn’t stand much of a change and settles on throwing the little remains of her staff at you. Needless to say they… bounce off your… assets as you approach. But even with all her shaking you can now see the mark in all its “glory.” A glowing purple symbol with six eyes looks to be branded on the back of her right hand. “Please, master, please be all right,” the girl mumbles in reverence(?) when she realizes there’s no hope of winning her encounter with you.

Then all of a sudden there’s a loud, yet muffled, scream from somewhere deeper in the building and the brand on the girl's hand begins to dissipate. Not a trace of it having ever been there is left after a moment's time. Then the mage collapses. You rush over to stop her from falling, and when her shaky legs finally recover enough to stand and her eyes regain lucidity she begins to frantically look around the ruined tavern in horror.

“Huh, wha- Derrick..?” She says as she looks over the unconscious form of the fighter, “Morgan..? Sophie..?” Somehow her face loses even more color as she spies her entire party. At least Clarice has finally stopped screaming, hopefully having fainted.

“Are you alright?” You curse yourself for asking such a stupid question the second it leaves your mouth, but you can’t think of anything else to say.

“Y-your H-highness?” She keeps getting paler.

“Yes?”

“W-we just attacked the princess…” As that realization sits in there’s nothing you can do to stop the poor adventurer girl from fainting.';

'>>5950119
Now you stand alone in a tavern that looks like it had a wyvern loose. What do you do?

>You can’t hear anyone coming down the stairs, maybe you should still go check?

>It looks like the inquisitor got the Stranger, but you can’t know for certain unless you see for yourself. This could be a test or trick.

>There are wounded people in this room, including yourself, you should spend your time healing them. Even if it might exhaust you fully.

>[Write-in]';

'>>5950120
>It looks like the inquisitor got the Stranger, but you can’t know for certain unless you see for yourself. This could be a test or trick.';

'>>5950120
>”I’m not pressing charges. The Stranger, however, will be paying for this with his life.”
>There are wounded people in this room, including yourself, you should spend your time healing them. Even if it might exhaust you fully.';

'>>5950120
>>It looks like the inquisitor got the Stranger, but you can’t know for certain unless you see for yourself. This could be a test or trick.
Measure twice, cut once. Any decent craftsman knows that.

>>5950143
I think the only one of them not currently unconscious is outside trying to wash their eyes in the rain. And he might still have fallen over when the compulsion left him. Surely we're not crazy enough to speak to an empty room, right?';

'>>5950120
>>You can’t hear anyone coming down the stairs, maybe you should still go check?';

'>>5950120
>>It looks like the inquisitor got the Stranger, but you can’t know for certain unless you see for yourself. This could be a test or trick.';

'>>5950120
>It looks like the inquisitor got the Stranger, but you can’t know for certain unless you see for yourself. This could be a test or trick.';

'>>5950120
>>It looks like the inquisitor got the Stranger, but you can’t know for certain unless you see for yourself. This could be a test or trick.


Also, we should save our healing might for the most badly injured after we get the all clear.';

'>>5950143
1 vote to heal the wounded

>>5950157
1 vote to check upstairs

>>5950129
>>5950150
>>5950160
>>5950186
>>5950192
5 votes to go find that Stranger.

Voting is closed, writing. Going to be the final update tonight.';

'>>5950120
>It looks like the inquisitor got the Stranger, but you can’t know for certain unless you see for yourself. This could be a test or trick.
We can heal them up later
Or leave them injured as an example of the harm Strangers can cause to justify additional funding to the Inquisition';

'>>5950119
>>5950261
Too late for me to vote, but fuck it.
>There are wounded people in this room, including yourself, you should spend your time healing them. Even if it might exhaust you fully.
It wouldn't be a good idea to start on bad terms with an adventurer's tavern bartender for maiming his daughter. Plus, y'know, we need to make friends with girls who like swords, too!';

'>>5950261
Maybe it’s a silver lining that the mage girl joined her comrades in slumber. You’re not sure how long it’ll take to convince a panicking woman that you’re not going to send her to the executioner's block for being mind-controlled. However, you can’t say the same for the Stranger, who you should be finding.

Unlike the inquisitor you enter the back room without fanfare, other than some precautionary looks inside to avoid an ambush. Your worries are unfounded as the only two occupants of the kitchen are in no state to offer resistance. The first, a woman has a rapier impaling through her shoulder and sticking the wooden wall behind her, due to this it looks almost like she’s standing slumped even though said rapier, her rapier by the looks of her scabbard, is the only thing keeping her upright. The other occupant, a large and unsightly man lies limp on the floor next to a cast iron skillet. By the blood covering the pot and the man’s broken nose, you can only imagine how he got into that state. But somehow both of them are alive, though with some grievous wounds.

The pattern of opening a room to macabre displays of unconscious commoners repeats twice more before you follow the sound of yelling, and whimpering into the establishment's wine cellar. Where you’re greeted with another uncomfortable sight, three women in various states of undress lie on the cold floor as the inquisitor himself stands over a sniveling man. A man desperately clutching the stump where his right hand used to be. Said hand lies discarded on the floor a few feet away, still with its brand.

Unluckily both men see you enter, and immediately the Stranger starts begging, “P-please! You have to help me! This stalker’s going to kill me!”

You ignore him, “inquisitor,” and nod to your “superior.” In reality, very few people are above you, and you know that.

“Is everyone taken care of upstairs?”

“For the most part, everyone who attacked me is unconscious.”

“-Wait! You’re with HIM?!” Both of you ignore the Stranger.

“Not dead?”

“It is well within my capabilities to defeat opponents without killing them.”

“Not sure I’d be able to, you MageKnights sure are scary.”

“My work is far less frightening than what I saw you’re capable of, inquisitor.”

The inquisitor hums but doesn’t refute your claim, “I’d like you to meet my new friend, one Keiji Hashimoto, our resident troublemaker.”

“Wait, this is all one big misunderstanding! You have to believe me!” The black-haired man says as his eyes dart for you to the inquisitor and back again.

“Ah yes, the big misunderstanding of why two separate inquisitors found you surrounded by a blossoming cult of predominantly young women who’ve been mind-controlled to obey you.”

He hisses in pain as he tries to stand up, momentarily forgetting he’s lacking a hand to push himself up with. The inquisitor's boot keeps him on the floor, “I know it sounds bad, but it isn’t what it looks like! I was just trying to make friends!”';

'>>5950290
The inquisitor turns towards you, “Personally, I prefer to make friends the old-fashioned way. Y’know by going outside, touching grass, and talking to people. Am I out of touch with today's trends, is mind-controlled sexual abuse all the rage these days?”

“No, I believe you’re still correct on what is normal in this day and age.”

“Thought so, we must have found an outlier then,” The inquisitor says while leveling his blade to point toward the Stranger. He can only whimper in response. “Care to do the honors, Princess Lorina de Lindan?”

“Is his execution not to be a public display?” You ask, confused.

“Not normally, most people in the city don’t even know there’s a Stranger here, and the Inquisition usually likes to keep it that way. But if you wish we can make it a public affair, could give you some clout I suppose.”

“In what way?”

“Imagine the headlines, ‘Princess Lorina intercepts Stranger, execution at eleven!’ though if you don’t want that or to bloody your hands yet, I can always do the deed.”

“I see, then I would prefer-

>”To do it myself, I want to make sure he’s dead.” [Execute the Stranger] How do you do it?

>”If you did it.” [Have Inquisitor Asher Execute the Stranger]

>”To make this a public affair.” [Capture the Stranger] There is no trial for Strangers, their mere existence violates the Goddess’ domain but many will come to see a public execution

>[Write-in]';

'>>5950271
>>5950281
I respect the late votes though I wouldn't worry. With healing coming in solidly in second the adventurers will be all right. They'll just be left comatose for a bit.';

'>>5950294
>”To make this a public affair.” [Capture the Stranger] There is no trial for Strangers, their mere existence violates the Goddess’ domain but many will come to see a public execution';

'>>5950294
>>”To do it myself, I want to make sure he’s dead.” [Execute the Stranger] How do you do it?
Naturally we must practice our vertical stroke. Can we make it through his skull? Can we make it through his breastbone? Can we bifurcate him? It is rare indeed to be able to test your swordswomanship on a willing target. From brow to balls our blade should travel. Very lethal. No time for ruses or tricks or cheats on his part.';

'>>5950294
>”If you did it.”
"You're the one who started the investigation and brought him down. It's fitting that you should be the one to finish it."
>"After all, taking credit for someone else's work is for louts and braggarts. You're not thinking I'm one, are you?!"';

'>>5950294

>”To do it myself, I want to make sure he’s dead.” [Execute the Stranger] How do you do it?
Quickly and cleanly stab him in the the heart with our sword. We aren't sadists, and we're not cruel. We kill him with hardly a word and right away.
Afterwards, cut off his head.';

'>>5950294
>”To make this a public affair.” [Capture the Stranger] There is no trial for Strangers, their mere existence violates the Goddess’ domain but many will come to see a public execution';

'>>5950294
>”To do it myself, I want to make sure he’s dead.” [Execute the Stranger] How do you do it?
Off with his head. A mind controlling lech is too dangerous to let live.';

'>>5950294
>”If you did it.” [Have Inquisitor Asher Execute the Stranger]
I don't think we've ever killed someone.';

'>>5950294
>>”To make this a public affair.” [Capture the Stranger] There is no trial for Strangers, their mere existence violates the Goddess’ domain but many will come to see a public execution';

'>>5950294
>”To make this a public affair.” [Capture the Stranger] There is no trial for Strangers, their mere existence violates the Goddess’ domain but many will come to see a public execution';

'>>5950294
Voting is going to remain open until tonight since today is exceptionally busy for me. Sorry for the inconvenience.';

'>>5950294
>>”If you did it.” [Have Inquisitor Asher Execute the Stranger]';

'>>5950294
>>”To do it myself, I want to make sure he’s dead.” [Execute the Stranger]';

'I personally don't like the idea of spectacle and it's better to kill the Stranger off to disallow any antics like 'escapes' or other Strangers coming to rescue (as unlikely that might be).

So I'm wondering, what is the logic behind voters have for making it 'a public affair'?

Because you think it's an interesting option? I'm sort of curious behind the reasoning behind it.';

'>>5950895
It originally wasn’t even an option before some anons suggested something of the sort earlier in their write-ins and I thought “why not.” So I consider it’s as somewhat of a creative write-in choice personally.';

'>>5950895
I voted to just off the Stranger where he stood, but I can see why the public execution would be an appealing choice. Our Princess here could make a statement/boost her appeal as a future ruler by publicly killing him. I would pick it if the Stranger wasn't a mind controller.';

'>>5950301
>>5950351
>>5950593
>>5950639
4 votes to make the execution public.

>>5950303
>>5950321
>>5950407
>>5950806
4 votes to do it yourself

>>5950305
>>5950574
>>5950733
3 votes to have the inquisitor do it

Not going to tie break roll because I'm exhausted and I fear a drop in quality if I force myself to write. If the votes haven't changed by tomorrow I'll roll.

Also I've been struggling forever to find someone close to what I imagine Inquisitor Asher looks like and I remembered Sein exists. The outfit would be different but he has the same general build.';

'>>5951096
Y'know, I've seen some QMs ask the /qtg/ when there's a tie on a vote for someone to help break it. Couldn't hurt going to them and asking next time.

For now, though, I'll switch to
>”To make this a public affair.” [Capture the Stranger]
For the chance of an interrogation scene to figure out where all these strangers are coming from. And to eventually kick him in the nuts when he makes a smarmy comment about our girls.';

'>>5951096
>Do it yourself
Something something fight dark something in the light';

'>>5951096
>”To do it myself, I want to make sure he’s dead.” [Execute the Stranger] How do you do it?
Through the heart then decapitation.';

'>>5950301
>>5950351
>>5950593
>>5950639
>>5951129
5 to capture the stranger

>>5950303
>>5950321
>>5950407
>>5950806
>>5951187
>>5951209
6 to kill the bastard yourself.

And that's all she wrote. Writing.';

'>>5951439
Well, despite the vote going different then what I preferred, there's still a bit of a silver lining to it. Now we can have Sturmfahrerin engraved with picrel!';

'>>5951445
That quote both fits the setting and goes hard as hell.';

'>>5951439
“I see, then I would prefer-” you swallow, “to do it myself,” your hands start to sweat. Suddenly it feels harder to hold your sword.

The Stranger's eyes widen in horror as you force yourself to bring Sturmfahrerin above him, “Hey- wait, miss please!”

You bring your war knife down, stabbing the strange man in his heart. Before you can even think you bring your sword up and slash through his neck, beheading him. Blood covers the floor and your sword. The Stranger dies quickly and in fear. A tremble makes its way through your body and you feel like throwing up. You knew this would have to happen eventually when you decided to join the Inquisition but to actually take a life with your own hands? Maybe you could have asked the inquisitor to do it, he’s done so before. Maybe you could have had an executioner do it in a grand affair. But you couldn’t bring yourself to say so. This is your reality now, it’s better to accept that now than to be found wanting later.

After tonight you’ll never be the same woman again.

“First time?” The inquisitor asks.

You nod and keep your gaze on the still-breathing man. You can’t bring yourself to either speak or look at the corpse. His gaze turns softer, “Why don’t you go upstairs and heal what you can? The body and people down here will only take me a minute.”

One last time you look at the half-naked girls sleeping on the floor next to the dead Stranger. At least when you tell yourself you did the right thing the comfort isn’t cold.

Your body moves on autopilot as you heal the most grievous wounds of the inquisitor's adversaries, before lying them down as comfortably as you can make them. You focus all your concentration on healing so that you can forget the night's affairs for a brief moment. You’re not even sure when the inquisitor joined you but as you reach the main room of the tavern he’s there to accompany you, with three wet sacks. He thankfully leaves them hidden behind the counter.

“So, Oliver, how was your night?” You hear the inquisitor ask after a long while of silence in the tavern.

You turn around from your work on Clarice, people are starting to rise. Then you turn back, trying to heal the final part of her face. Her eye, however, is unsalvageable. The organ is too delicate, you're too exhausted, and you’ve spent too much of your magic. Maybe a more skilled healer could fix her, like Lyndale, but you’ve learned your lesson. You’re not her.

“Asher, Goddess, what happened?” Oliver sounds different, more relaxed than he did earlier.

“Can you remember anything?”

“Damnit- it’s all so hazy.”

“I’ll come by tomorrow for questioning then. Make sure everyone who is here right now still is when I return.”

“Sure, whatever. Hey, are you to blame for all my product covering the floor?”

The inquisitor laughs, “Not me this time, that’d be Her Highness over there.”

“Her Highness?” You hear him pause, “Asher.”

“Hm?”

“Why the fuck is royalty healing my daughter?”';

'>>5951461
https://youtu.be/TAe2NLB8N0c?si=uSCVUo49VEzgzXzu

[MISSION COMPLETE]

[THE STRANGER IS DEAD]

[THE WONDERLAND IS SECURE]

>You’ve chosen to make Lorinda de Lindan [HAUGHTY], [GOOD-NATURED], and a [WEAPON OTAKU] this has the adverse effect of making her a [GIRLFAILURE] in select social scenarios.

>Your [MENTAL CORRUPTION] rose 0% during the mission. Selected 0 choices leading to meeting Her.

>You did not talk to, negotiate with, or fall under the control of the Stranger, achieving the [INQUISITION END]

>Inquisitor Asher is [IMPRESSED] with your capabilities, you having quickly deduced where the Stranger is hiding, fought off multiple opponents, and [EXECUTED] the Stranger. He is likely to give you an [EXCELLENT] recommendation.

>Inquisitor Asher sees you more as a [COMRADE] than a [STUDENT] or [RIVAL] due to your agreeable (funny) personality, willingness to take command, and skillset. He is willing to work with you again.

Would you like to

>Resume the night

Or skip to

>Lorina’s mission epilogue [A Meeting in the Palace]

>Asher’s mission epilogue [After Action Report]

>Both epilogues

>Anastasia’s mission epilogue [LOCKED] Public Execution was not chosen';

'>>5951464
>Resume the night
Maybe see if we can contact someone who is skilled enough to heal Clarice's eye afterwards, like that person we thought of, Lyndale? At the very least, we should send her a replacement sword, anonymously, of course.';

'>>5951464
>>Lorina’s mission epilogue [A Meeting in the Palace]';

'>>5951468
You should return to first post if you don't remember who Lyndale is.';

'>>5951470
U SAY IE NO REED GOUD
I KAN REED GOUD
SCRU U

Thought it was her first name, not the family name';

'Oh, yeah, if you're thinking about doing the engraving thing, here's a pic of a different executioner's sword from the 15th century that basically says the same thing. From a quick google translate, Sünder is Sinner, and Fremder is Stranger, so...';

'>>5951464
>Both epilogues
I suspect Asher is a Stranger himself';

'>>5951464
>Both epilogues
all the scenes';

'>>5951464
>Resume the night';

'>>5951464
>>Both epilogues';

'>>5951464
>Both epilogues
Caught up, good quest.
I want our next weapon to be "Sophia".';

'>>5951464
Going to the movie theater so the update is going to be later tonight, voting will be open until then.';

'>>5951464
>Both epilogues

I wonder if there are Strangers who aren't total assholes. I mean old style isekai stuff had folks wanting to go home or being extraordinarily wary and disoriented being in a completely new world, they weren't the sort of jump into crazy adventures with their powers.';

'>>5951464
>Both epilogues';

'>>5951702
I mean, there's at least one old western isekai-ish series where the protagonist wanted to go home AND was a complete asshole... I kinda stopped reading it before getting to... that certain point.';

'>>5951835
Wait, isn't this the protagonist that decided, the moment he was cured of his leprosy in the other world, to rape some rando girl who found and helped him?';

'>>5951842
...YEP.

Imagine being a former fantasy book reading parent who kept their collection, with a fantasy book reading young child who likes going through their old collection, and realizing your kid is reading THAT book.

I'm so glad I didn't get completely mentally fucked up by reading that part. Of course, later I made the bad decision to read The Sword of Truth slightly too young, but at least it wasn't in the collection, and that I dumped it after getting to the BDSM bit.';

'>>5951656
I'm glad you enjoyed the quest so far. Thanks for coming, anon.

>>5951835
>>5951842
>>5951864
I don't even want to know what these are. My only reference for western isekai is Connecticut yankee and Alice in wonderland.

>>5951468
>>5951526
2 votes to keep playing where we left off.

>>5951469
1 vote to see Lorina's epilogue

>>5951498
>>5951502
>>5951602
>>5951656
>>5951702
>>5951723
6 votes to see the epilogue.

Each epilogue will have 1 vote that will determine how the character's story continues on the quest. I'm going to be starting with Lorinas. Writing.';

'>>5951916
>I don't even want to know what these are.
Good plan.

>Each epilogue
Wait, was this only a one shot? I thought there'd be more to this.';

'>>5951931
Each mission will have an epilogue. I'm writing it as something as a breather moment and a way to give personal info on each character, such as their family and friends, as well as gaze into their thoughts.

I plan to continue the quest since I'm having a lot of fun writing it

I also need time to make the next mission, and this gives me that time.';

'>>5951937
Next mission? A stranger opens a soup store. The soup is too good. People are going rabid for it. He's using MSG in it.

Dark and dastardly.';

'>>5951916
>Lorina’s epilogue:

For the first time in your life, you feel out of place in the ornate halls of the Royal Palace. Wearing wet and tattered clothes you walk through the dimly lit halls, toward the bathing room you instructed a servant to prepare. The few servants who are still awake at this ungoddessly hour are quick to vacate your path as they see the state you are in and the scowl you're unable to hide. Oh, how you wish you could just curl up under your warm covers and cuddle Schatzi, your great epee, as you drift into slumber. Alas, you’re filthy and would feel ashamed if you tried to sleep as you are.

But mark your worlds, once you’re dry your warm, warm, blankets will never know what hit them.

You don’t even need to worry about arising early either, like you did in the academy. The inquisitor said someone will come to retrieve you sometime in the afternoon, and won’t make you wait in the rain either. Small mercies you suppose.

However, you did have to end up promising to return to the Dawn’s Light. Clarice was rather insistent and quite intimidating after she regained consciousness, and her personality flipped. She ended up pulling out her hair ties while curing the Stranger for making her wear them. She said under no uncertain circumstances she wouldn’t be in debt to royalty for saving her, and that you had good technique during your fight. So at least she can’t be all bad, even if she did seem a little bit too happy about being able to wear a “badass adventurer eyepatch.”

“Lori?” You hear someone call out your name as you turn into one of the palace's many halls. Said someone walks up to you until you’re in conversation distance, giving you a good look at a silver-haired man.

“Arthur? What are you doing up so late?” You ask the man, your brother, Crown Prince Arthur.

“I could ask the same- ah, no that doesn’t quite make sense does it?” He chuckles awkwardly and rubs the back of his head, “It was already pretty late when you went to meet with the Inquisition so- I’m rambling aren’t I?”

You nod.

“Oh, right! What I’m doing up. Well, you see Edith was getting in one of her little moods and then my wife demanded-”

“Suddenly, I find myself uncaring about the reasons you’re here.”

“So cold!” He says in (mock) shock.

You only press your lips into a thin line.

“But seriously though, are you alright? You look awful, Lori. We were also expecting you to be gone for a week at least, off to train or something.”

You sigh, “No everything went well, I suppose. We- I killed a Stranger-”

“What! Already?!”

You wince at your brother's shriek, “Yes, already. I’m told it was a coincidence but I’m not sure how much I believe that. At least my mentor for the assignment was skilled enough to not slow me down, ah, no that’s not right. It’s just-” You stop yourself from putting your foot in your mouth, “I’m tired brother can we speak later.”';

'>>5951983
Your brother's gaze softens, even since he became a parent he’s done a remarkable job of resembling father. You remember both of them trying, and failing, to console you after news of your expulsion, “Alright, but I want to hear everything. Mom and Dad will too.”

“I will, but tomorrow, please.”

“Today, you mean. Since it’s after midnight and-”

“Arthur.”

“Sorry, just trying to lighten the mood.”

“Goodnight, Arthur,” You simply cannot bear this conversation any longer.

“Goodnight, Lori,” He says with a cheerful wave.

As you walk away to your bath, you can’t help but feel the weight on your shoulder lighten a smidge. It's like you’ve forgotten about them when faced with your idiot brother’s usual antics. And when your bath is over and you allow yourself to finally go to sleep, you’re out the instant your head touches the pillow.';

'>>5951985
You’re here again.

You stand in the doorway to an ornate room filled with decor that wouldn’t be out of place in an aristocrat’s villa. Almost everywhere you look in the room has at least something containing velvet blue. A fire burns filling the room with warmth while the open curtains show a storm raging outside. You can’t even see the stars this time.

This is Her room, where She resides. But she isn’t here now. Why?

The couch and chairs look so inviting, so soft. Like you could sink into them and wait for an eternity. Wait for Her to return. Why isn’t she here?

But you don’t have to. You are the only one in control of yourself, you can shut the door.

Maybe you should wait for her to come back, the girl with blonde hair, or was it black, silver? You can’t remember, but you can remember when the two of you played. She’d probably want to play again. She loved your tea parties, after all, you’re a noble you know how to make the best ones! She also loved it when you showed Her your new sword techniques, too!

No, this isn’t real, it can’t be. You don’t need to make it be.

She always had such fun interests, because they were all of yours! Wouldn’t be a shame if you missed out on meeting Her again?

Maybe if you waited, if you sat on the couch by the fire and picked up Her- no your favorite storybook she’d come are read it to you! Reading it to you as you sink into eternity here!

You don’t have to. YOU can do whatever you want, not what other tells you.

>Walk over to the couch and rest. You’re so tired, after all.

>Close the door and leave the dream';

'>>5951987
>Close the door and leave the dream
DREAM THOT BEGONE';

'>>5951987
>Walk over to the couch and rest. You’re so tired, after all.';

'>>5951987
>>Walk over to the couch and rest. You’re so tired, after all.';

'>>5951987
>Close the door and leave the dream
Just in case this is yuri. I hate yuri. Sorry.';

'>>5951987
>>Close the door and leave the dream
Anti-/u/ gang';

'>>5952124
>Just in case this is yuri.
I'm so confused about what made you think this but okay.';

'>>5952185
If it's not I'll switch to
>Walk over to the couch and rest. You’re so tired, after all';

'>>5951987
>Close the door and leave the dream

>>5952195
On a cursory glance, it seems to me to be Lyndale trying to take over our life by becoming us.';

'>>5952243
You know, now it looks lime a split personality thing to me. I think I'll switch back to
>Close the door and leave the dream
Sorry for being a fence-sitter, QM';

'>>5952246
Don't worry about it, anon.

>>5952057
>>5952124
>>5952137
>>5952243
>>5952246
5 votes to close the door.

>>5952081
>>5952094
2 Votes to take a rest.

Voting is now closed. Writing.';

'>>5951987
>>5952303
Missed it again. Hope this doesn't completely close off this story hook. Here's my late vote, anyways.

>Walk over to the couch and rest. You’re so tired, after all.

Also, regarding western isekai that's not deeply uncomfortable, The Phantom Tollbooth is meant for a younger audience, but it's still pretty great. Give that one a shot.';

'>>5952313
Don't worry, this plot thread is a little too important to just end here. However, this will affect how Lorina reacts to it.';

'>>5952303
It takes an insurmountable amount of effort to force your hand to rise to the doorknob. Even more so to close the door in front of you, separating yourself from the world within. Your breath is ragged, your ears are ringing, your nose is bleeding, your body is on the verge of shutting down.

Then it all stops. This is a dream it can’t hurt you.

Or so you thought, “Big sis, why don’t you want to play anymore,” a youthful, familiar, voice calls from behind you. You can feel Her presence so close and yet so far.

“You’re not real.” You say, but your body refuses to turn around.

“How can I not be real, big sis? I’m talking to you, aren’t I?”

“I don’t have a sister.”

“Whatever do you mean? I’m right here.”

“Don’t call me that.”

“Why are you being so mean to be, big sis? Why won’t you just let me in.”

It would be so easy to, you realize. You wouldn’t even need to worry about a thing-

“No! I’m in control! Me, not you! I won’t let you take that away from me!”

You wake up with a startle. Sunlight comes through the blinds and onto your pillow. The chirping of birds can be heard outside. Your blankets and sheets are thrown everywhere around you and there’s a metallic taste on your tongue- ah, you’ve been chewing on your sword pommel in your sleep.

You feel like you had a pretty vivid dream last night, but whenever you try and recall the dream you lose more memories of it than you gain.

>[Mental Corruption] rose 0%';

'>>5952346
>Asher’s epilogue

The stone halls of the cathedral are cold and empty. Other than the clergywoman very few people stay here overnight under the watchful gaze of the Goddess. But you’re safehouse is at the edge of the city, and you’re certain you’ll get sick if you step back out into the storm. And it’s not like you could just carry the corpse all the way there anyway, you needed to drop most of it at the morgue. Though you carry the tainted hand on your way to the prohibited parts of the cathedral, the parts where the Inquisition resides.

The other inquisitors look at you with wary eyes, you’re a pretty infamous figure around here. No one outside of the upper echelons of the order knows your history, but they do know you get results. Your penchant for working alone hasn’t leaned well to making friends with your fellows, but they do respect you. Such is confirmed as you receive multiple nods as you walk towards the room of the Lord Inquisitor, somewhere you frequent often when you’re in the capitol. It’s strange to see so many inquisitors in one place, even here. The Stranger you and the princess took care of must have spooked the church something fierce.

At least Inquisitor Beneger is probably asleep.

You heard once from a fellow inquisitor that people think of you as mysterious. Someone who is out of the ordinary, with strange mannerisms and stranger work habits. You can kind of see it, you’re life has been anything but normal for as long as you can remember.

Your hand raps at the door to the Lord Inquisitor’s office, “Come in,” speaks a guttural voice after a few seconds.

Every move you make from then on is practiced and precise. You open the door and shut it behind you, giving your superior a nod, you then walk up to the Lord’s desk and place the bloody sack away from any documents. Two steps back and you perform a formal kneel. Your right knee on the floor with your left raised, and your right fist extended to the floor as your left elbow connects with your left knee. You bend your forehead down so that it touches your protruding left arm completing the kneel, an act of submission before your superior, all as Beneger taught you.

“Oh, come off it boy, none of that.” The Lord’s deep voice bellows, “Pah, fine! Rise, Asher, you’re Lord commands.” The Lord Inquisitor states.

You do so without a word, getting a good look at the man sitting before you. The Lord Inquisitor practically spills out of his chair, and his bald head is covered in sweat as dozens of papers are spread out before him, along with many used-up quills. The man is best described as looking more like a fat cat than anything else. “So I take it that your task is complete?” He asks.

“The Stranger is dead, this is the hand he was using to control people.”

“Is his Cheat Skill still active?”

“I haven’t tested it but the effects seemed to dissipate when I severed the limb.”

“Hm, good. And your judgment on Lady Lorina?”';

'>>5952350
“Exceptionally capability in both intelligence and skill. Should she continue in the order I see her going far.”

“That’s a rare recommendation from you.”

“I mean what I say, sir.”

“And how many times did you,” he pauses before leaning forward in his chair, “Fail in this mission?”

“Not once,” you continue when he raises his eyebrow, “I meant what I said about her capabilities.”

“Hm, brief on the full report later then. Spare no details.”

“I never do.”

“I know, Asher, it’s one of the many qualities I like about you.”

You nod, accepting the praise though unsure of why it was said.

“Tell me, what are the next steps you’d have the princess take?”

“I would see her tutored under Lord Beneger.”

“You believe that is the right course?”

“Lord Beneger is wise beyond his years, my lord.”

The old man barks out a laugh at that, “Wise is certainly one word to use! Though you say so through gritted teeth, I assume?”

You do not deign to respond, it is not wise to speak ill of your superiors.

“A good suggestion, if it were anyone else. But no. I have other plans for the princess.”

“Understood sir, shall I leave you to make them?”

“No, Asher, I expect you’ll play a big part in them.”

You blink, confused, “Sir?”

“Tell me, did you see anything abnormal about her? Anything at all?”

You shake your head, “Not really, some personality quirks sure but nothing the Inquisition would consider strange.”

The fat cat grunts, “Well, I did. When I went to see the King years ago, I saw something- unique about her.”

You stay silent but the Lord Inquisitor does little more than shake his head with a sigh, “She’ll be needed if what I fear is true. If the festering wound that is the Demon Wastes is getting ready to spit out another.”

“Sir, you can’t mean-”

“I do, boy. I do.”

“My Lord, I thought we prevented another one from arising.”

“Prevent? No. Postponed, yes. But this world is cylindrical, another Demon Lord will come and if we want to prevent the damages of the last we will need to be creative.”

“Sir this is concerning, but may I ask why you’re telling me this?”

“Hm, you may.”

You stare, blankly. It takes over half a minute for the Lord Inquisitor to raise his eyebrows and gesture his hand in a manner telling you to speak up, “Why are you telling me this?” You say, exasperated.

“Because you’re secret makes you special, boy, and we need more special people,” at his words your mouth hangs open, “Soon the cesspit called Earth will spit out another Demon Lord, and one way or another Lorina de Lindan is the key to defeating it. You are the one I trust most to be able to guide her towards understanding the Inqusisitions secrets and t’s better she learns them from a familiar face, than say a stranger. Don’t you agree inquisitor?”

“My Lord-”

“Don’t. You. Agree. Asher?”

>Agree and accept the role he’s granting you

>Disagree and refuse play the part instructed of you';

'>>5952362
>>Agree and accept the role he’s granting you
Our superior officer is ordering us practically. So I guess we don't get to choose really.';

'>>5952362
>Agree and accept the role he’s granting you';

'>>5952346
We're kinda weird, huh

>>5952362
>“And how many times did you,” he pauses before leaning forward in his chair, “Fail in this mission?”
Stranger or stole one's blessing, some kind of time loop power probably

>>5952362
>Agree and accept the role he’s granting you';

'>>5952362
>Agree and accept the role he’s granting you
Gee, I wonder who’s the corrupt bureaucrat who will power up with demon magic to become the first boss is going to be…';

'>>5952362
>>Agree and accept the role he’s granting you';

'>>5952362
>Agree and accept the role he’s granting you
we never had a choice in the matter, really';

'>>5952362
>Agree and accept the role he’s granting you
Ahaha, was I right?';

'>>5952362
>Agree and accept the role he’s granting you

Also on a random note is no one going to question why literally Alice from Black Souls is in our head and trying to mind rape us?';

'>>5952537
What are you talking about? That was just our old imaginary friend. You're being hysterical. There is nothing to worry about.';

'>>5952543
Oh, of course my apologies I'll go take a rest now to clear my thoughts. The mind conjures up the silliest of things.';

'That reminds me... how did this place end up having "Jesus Christ" infiltrating the language?

I propose that an amnesiac Catholic Christian Stranger whose only power is to remember all the really cool hymns of his faith ended up as a musician and trying to relearn his Christian faith through the lyrics.

Unfortunately, the Inquisition eventually caught up with him and killed him off even though his ability was harmless.

At least he introduced Miserere Mei Deus before he died.';

'>>5952644
Inb4 Jesus is the first Stranger in this world';

'>>5952644
I think it's because Asher is a Stranger himself';

'>>5952368
>>5952385
>>5952389
>>5952414
>>5952418
>>5952430
>>5952438
>>5952537
Looks like the vote is unanimous. Writing.';

'>>5952803
“Of course, Lord Inquisitor.”

The man's face adopts a Cheshire grin, “That’a boy! Now, scratch any plans you made for the week, you’re going hunting!”

“Wait already!? There can’t possibly be too many active Strangers in the country.”

“And that’s what got me so worried, Asher. Read these then get some rest,” He hands you a few documents from his mess of a desk, “You’re going to need it.”

You briefly skim the pages, frown, and give the Lord Inquisitor a grim nod. No one disturbs you as you find a place to clean up and sleep. What you wouldn’t give to be born in less interesting times.

At least sleep comes easily enough.

>Inquisitor Asher will remain in the party

You are Lornia de Lindan and you have just finished your morning routine. Your stomach is full, your hair is dry, and your weapon maintenance is done. Your mace has a few chips in it but nothing to worry about. A messenger came by earlier this morning to inform your family that Inquisitor Asher himself will be arriving early in the afternoon and to prepare for a weeks-long trip to the north. So of course you prepared a few weapons for the trip, some of your favorites. They are Sturmfahrerin and:

>[Write-in weapon name and type] You can bring up to three more

Servants will be preparing the rest of your luggage as is their station. Though you were informed you’d be traveling by rail, which is a rather interesting prospect as you’ve never done a long journey on a locomotive. The technology is too new and your father was too worried about it possibly being accident-prone when it first came out. It’s been years since then but you’ve never needed to use the metal contraption before. Though the girlish side of you is slightly giddy at the prospect. And yes being fond of heavy machinery is something noblewomen often are, you’re not weird.

But that’s beside the point! After conversing with your parents and your brother’s family over breakfast about the past night you’re left with a problem. They all have a country to run and you’re not leaving until this afternoon. It’s middle morning and you need something to do until then. Now all you need to do is figure out what.

>Perhaps it would be a good idea to train? You’re a bit sore after all the work you did last night but that’s nothing some stretches won’t fix.

>A servant told you a note arrived from your friend at the academy, your only friend at the academy. She should still be at her estate currently as it’s summer break. Maybe you should read it and reply?

>You could always leave the palace and head to the Dawn’s Light, it’s quite closeby. Clarice said she was interested in meeting again. Maybe she wasn’t only saying that because of your station?

>Or you could always [Write-in]';

'>>5952824
>The pistol, a pollax and a dagger. Name one of them Sofia to please that one anon.
>A servant told you a note arrived from your friend at the academy, your only friend at the academy. She should still be at her estate currently as it’s summer break. Maybe you should read it and reply?
Friendships need maintenance';

'>>5952824
Matchlock, beidana style falchion, and a very special dagger given by Albrecht that first got us into weapons.

>A servant told you a note arrived from your friend at the academy, your only friend at the academy. She should still be at her estate currently as it’s summer break. Maybe you should read it and reply?';

'>>5952875
And I forgot the picture… they’re on the lower right.';

'>>5952824
>A servant told you a note arrived from your friend at the academy, your only friend at the academy. She should still be at her estate currently as it’s summer break. Maybe you should read it and reply?

for weapons, backing >>5952875
but swap the falchion for a rapier';

'I just had a thought… our only friend must have had some sort of similar hobby that would mesh well with our weapon collecting hobby, since she’s friends with us. You think a military history otaku would mesh well with our proclivities?';

'>>5952856
>Pistol (Ember or Cinder), Pole-Axe (Sophia) and Dagger (Best Regards)

>A servant told you a note arrived from your friend at the academy, your only friend at the academy. She should still be at her estate currently as it’s summer break. Maybe you should read it and reply?';

'>>5952824
>>A servant told you a note arrived from your friend at the academy, your only friend at the academy. She should still be at her estate currently as it’s summer break. Maybe you should read it and reply?';

'>>5952824
>[Write-in weapon name and type]
>>Axe
>>Stiletto
>>Horseman's pick

>A servant told you a note arrived from your friend at the academy, your only friend at the academy. She should still be at her estate currently as it’s summer break. Maybe you should read it and reply?

>>5953063
You can be friends without sharing hobbies.';

'>>5952824
>>5952875

Vote for this.
Make the dagger a rondel dagger.';

'>>5953298
Why not a bollock dagger?';

'quest is cute, with its mix of autistic princess and hints of serious political and magical plotlines
>>5952824
>Dirk (from Albrecht)
>Poleaxe (Sofia)
>brace of matchlock pistols (Fremsyn)

I like the idea of leaving the emotional support dagger unnamed, unlike all the rest of the weapons. There's no need for a name for it. There's no chance of Lorina needing to refer to it by any kind of pet name because there's no chance of her thinking of any other dagger beforehand. As for type, I think just a simple, well made and slightly beautified dirk or hunting knife would be enough. No need to get fancy/exotic with every weapon she has
Framtid is Norwegian for foresight. Given that matchlocks need to be loaded and ready for use, and, well, they shoot whatever their fore 'sees'.

>A servant told you a note arrived from your friend at the academy, your only friend at the academy. She should still be at her estate currently as it’s summer break. Maybe you should read it and reply?
For the friend, she could be a traditional noble fashionista but one with a fixation on military uniforms. Adjacent to Lorina's weapon autism, but still a textile thing and thus more 'acceptable' for upperclass women.';

'>>5952824
I'll go with >>5952875. Poleaxes are cool, but we'll need something to lop off a branded limb within the confines of a train. Something machete-like or a hatchet should work. As for the dagger, perhaps something like a stiletto for sneaky stuff.';

'>>5952856
>>5952875
>>5952984
>>5953066
>>5953109
>>5953133
>>5953298
>>5953883
>>5953909
I forgot to hit send on this...

Looks like everyone wants to read the letter, while the votes are in for a matchlock pistol, and a dagger (I like the stileoto design the best). The pole-ax vs not pole-ax vote seems to be the strongest debate so please with your next vote put if you'd rather have a

>Pole-ax
or
>Falchion';

'>>5953987
I voted Pole-Axe the first time, bet I'm voting that again.';

'>>5953987
Your office isn’t an exceptionally large room, more like an attachment to your armory than anything else. Only a bed suitable for a viscount instead of a monarch, in case you really need to sleep in the room. But it also contains a desk in which you perform most of your writing and small-arms maintenance. Though your servants have cleaned and arranged everything on it so that no oils or inkwells have stained the envelope barring the wax mark of House Hyland. And what an envelope it is, it looks to be barely holding its contents. Once you sit and open it you find out why, for multiple papers comprise the “letter.”

Your eyes are immediately attracted to one that is just an attempt at art on a piece of letter paper. You think it’s supposed to be a courtyard garden. Thankfully you find that Cathrine de Hyland, your friend, saw fit to add a little number at the top of each paper denoting which order to read them, how very helpful.

Catherine is a peculiar woman, one who has carefully crafted every part of her appearance so that it screams “noblewoman.” From her expensive dresses to her immaculate blonde drills. From a glance no one would ever be able to discern that she’s New Money, and while now the heir to a Marquess her parents were both common merchants who made a lot of deals and bribes to acquire their frontier title.

That’s the reason why Cathy first sought you out at the MageKnight Academy, so she could make a powerful connection to the crown. You’re both happy to say it worked, perhaps a bit too well, as you two became honest to the Goddess friends. Very different from many of your other academic relationships, comprised of vessels and foreigners either too eager to please or too willing to break off a relationship when you had a momentary drop in prestige. Maybe that’s a bit hypocritical to say, Catherine did seek you out due to your position but she’s also the only person still in correspondence with you after you were “prematurely graduated with full marks” (read: expelled) since they couldn’t just kick out royalty.

That may just be her liking the sound of her own voice too much though, once she starts talking she doesn’t stop. This “letter” is just evidence to the point. That’s enough stalling though, you’ll never finish it if you don’t start now.

Dear Lorina,

I lament the fact that we were unable to talk much during the end of the semester. Things moved so quickly after the ball and I found myself unable to properly reach you as everything went down. Though I did lose a decent sum of money betting on you so I will consider us even. It was like the prince received a power boost whenever that peasant girl screamed at him. Please consider that for next time, if there is a next time.

I lost a lot of money!';

'>>5954009
Sorry, perhaps that is too forward of me, and these are things that should be discussed in person rather than through letter correspondence. So because of that, I would like to continue where I left off in our last discussion about how I started having tulips grown on my estate after I learned about the mania down in the Merchant Provinces. Well, it turns out that was just the start of it! Blah blah blah blah blah-

Ah, there she goes. Turns out the sketch on pg. 3 of her “letter” was on said garden and how the agricultural specialists are using a magical growing technique to fertilize them. Yes, that does mean she spent a good two pages on the economics of flowers. And no you did not need to reread anything so that you could fully understand what she was talking about, you did not!

Once she finishes her tangent on the tulip economy and her predictions to quadruple her family wealth she begins another on current Lindan fashion, even dipping into armor and new military attire for a while for some reason, before rounding it all out by talking about the going ons at her estate. The more traditional gossip like how one of her maids is sneaking away to spend time with a squire of her family’s knights. That sort of thing. It’s interesting enough but the way Cathrine talks about knowing so many people makes you feel a little self-conscious. She always was a bit better at talking to people and making connections, once the other person got past her unique laugh. The way she poses with her hand and goes “ohohoho” has to be a trained occurrence, you refuse to believe that's a natural response to laughing.

Now though, you’re alone in your room with a small smile on your face after reading a letter sent from the country's northern region. You don’t mentally note how good it feels to receive a letter from a friend, or anything stupid like that. You just bring up your pen to reply. Thankfully, this is an official letter so you don’t need to bother with a quill.

What do you write about?

>You write about your upcoming trip to the north and express interest in maybe meeting up if time allows

>You write of trivial things with no consequence, polite and interesting enough chatter

>You write about the new weapons you’ve added to your collection and the fights you’ve been in

>You [Write-In]';

'>>5954010
>You write about your upcoming trip to the north and express interest in maybe meeting up if time allows
Ask her to bring us some new fashionable clothes if we're meeting up.';

'>>5954010
>>You write about your upcoming trip to the north and express interest in maybe meeting up if time allows';

'>>5954010
>You write about the new weapons you’ve added to your collection and the fights you’ve been in
Sperg three pages about Sophia the Poleaxe and "Best regards" the Stiletto, as an elegant way to bring the end to a life.

Then,
>Drop one line about your upcoming trip to the north and express interest in maybe meeting up if time allows';

'>>5954010
>You write about your upcoming trip to the north and express interest in maybe meeting up if time allows';

'>>5954010
>You write about your upcoming trip to the north and express interest in maybe meeting up if time allows

also about those tulips... Are we going to have a bankrupt friend at this point?

>You [Write-In]
But you were the one who taught me that the value of the asset shouldn't deviate too greatly from it's true value....';

'>>5954010
>You write about the new weapons you’ve added to your collection
But do not write about the fights. Also advise her that the land on which the tulips grow is more valuable than the tulips themselves.';

'>>5953987
I’ll put down falchion again.

>>5954010
>You write about your upcoming trip to the north and express interest in maybe meeting up if time allows
Rest assured, I will only bring my basic necessities, so I wouldn’t frighten your parents and siblings.';

'>>5954010
Tulips? She's about to lose even more money, isn't she?
>You write about your upcoming trip to the north and express interest in maybe meeting up if time allows';

'>>5953987
Oh, and
>Pollaxe';

'>>5953987
I voted poleaxe the first time, and I'll vote for it again
>>5954010
I for one think she could make a killing on those tulips, as long as she makes a swift enough exit and doesn't let them become the majority of her portfolio, especially if her gardeners are good enough to recreate spotted varieties, which (at least during Earth's corresponding mania) sold for greatly significant amounts more than solid colored
>You write about your upcoming trip to the north and express interest in maybe meeting up if time allows';

'>>5954009
>It was like the prince received a power boost whenever that peasant girl screamed at him

Damn otome game otaku Strangers out here ruining the carefully orchestrated lives of nobles for their sick fantasies.

>You write about your upcoming trip to the north and express interest in maybe meeting up if time allows

I'll also pick this one but I like too >>5954071';

'>>5954316
Wouldn't an otome game Stranger reincarnate into our position instead?';

'>>5954452
Not necessarily. We might be the designated villainess of the game they isekai-ed into, which would make sense if Anastasia looks kinda normal, both in beauty and “attribute” size. Those games try to make the player model as generic as possible to emphasize the “you are a normal average everygirl” feel to better draw in the player to emphasize with the plot. Of course, she might be one of these newer isekai protags that get put into the villain role and tries to change things so that she doesn’t get murdered, but that doesn’t seem as likely.

Also, OP, can we still suggest additional character traits for Lorina? I’m liking the idea that she has some sort of complex regarding her “attributes”, grumbling about how her dresses need to be custom fitted and wishing she was more petite like how most noblewomen are portrayed, insults at school going around behind our back about how we look more like a nursemaid than the third in line for the throne, us wondering if we got dumped because Albrecht prefers them smaller... Heck, we could even use it to suss out Strangers if we’re told that most of the male Strangers prefer larger “attributes”, with it causing us embarrassment and all that.';

'>>5954533
I like this heh';

'>>5954533
I like it too';

'>>5954533
Lorina should be glad that anime logic is safeguarding her from shoulder pain and the terrible boobslap.';

'>>5954783
Goddess forbid she tries to learn archery, both from hitting herself with the bowstring and trying to find a chest protector that could contain her…';

'>>5954856
No wonder our character went for firearms.

I bet if she gets a wish, she'll accidentally use it to shrink her chest.';

'>>5954872
>"You have THREE wishes."
>"I wish for smaller tits"
>she falls over because she isn't used to not having twenty pounds on her chest
>can't fight as well anymore and has to relearn it
>"Ugh, I wish I had my tits back..."
>"One wish, madam."
>"Just give me a whetstone that never needs replacing dammit!"
I'd laugh.';

'>>5954010
Sorry about the lack of update, I've been a bit busy and will be this upcoming week. Because of that, I'm going to try and update tomorrow and wednesday to the point you're leaving the capital. I'm going to archive the thread when that is done and make a new one probably about a week later.

>>5954533
With what you started I'm going to have to make this canon.';

'>>5954909
>With what you started I'm going to have to make this canon.
One vote for it not being canon please';

'>>5954911
>joins an isekai anime inspired quest with fem MC who’s main illustration is drawn by doujinshi artist Honjou Raita
>doesn’t want to play awkward top-heavy anime girl';

'>>5954927
I think he just wants the character to not be self conscious about it. Or not. I'm not he.';

'>>5954927
>>5954933
Yeah just not a big fan of having a complex about it
Also the raita pic didn't pop up until we were like 200 posts in, our first look at our MC was >>5947506';

'>>5954933
Maybe not too self conscious about it but it's definitely unusual and other characters will respond differently';

'>>5954959
We just have to find a guy who likes em then';

'I much prefer the Lorina_Outfit picture over the other, and I definitely don't want a boob complex to become a major character trait. keep it spare. the 'Needless to say they… bounce off your… assets' was pushing it. Lorina's just been stabbed a few times and is in the middle of tracking down an evil criminal, so it's a little silly, but something physical has just drawn her attention there so it's not completely absurd.
References to her boobs can happen, don't get me wrong, and good quests can be appealing to different kinds of readers by having lots of aspects. but one part shouldn't alienate the others, and I'm here for the game more than porn';

'>>5954033
>>5954062
>>5954071
>>5954087
>>5954089
>>5954129
>>5954168
>>5954279
>>5954316
Basically, everyone has voted for at least a tad bit of a mention of meeting up if you can.

>>5954002
>>5954171
>>5954279
pole-ax

>>5954129
falchion

Looks like pole-ax wins the second round of voting.

With all the discussion I will state I'm a man of the people first and foremost and will write whatever I feel the majority wants. Though I never planned to take the story 100% seriously. It's a goofy concept that deserves a mix of silly/serious in my opinion, though I don't actually plan to write porn lol. Writing';

'>>5955247
Unlike Cathrine, you actually manage to fit your entire letter onto a single page. Double-sided mind you but you’ll have no problems actually fitting it into an envelope. It needed to be quite a long letter as well, it’s Cathy’s fault really, there was so much she wrote that you needed to reply to, as is common courtesy. From her rambles about tulips, which you tried to give advice on from what you remember of your economic tutors and teachers, something about having a diverse portfolio is better than not(?) And how she could try to make a quick harvest and leave before the value turns to such lunacy it loses it all. Then you spoke of your weapons, a normal amount as she talked about her new dresses. Finally, you rounded out your letter with a comment that you’ll be heading north and if you can you’ll try to visit her estate. You’re not sure if you’ll be able to or where you’re going but by the time Cathrine receives this letter you’ll probably already be in the north.

Inside you, there’s a part that really hopes you’ll at least stop by the trading port that Cathy lives in. It’s a rather large city so there’s at least a decent change if you’re planning on going farther north than that.

“Your Highness? There’s an inquisitor waiting for you by the gates.” A maid with a delicate voice and appearance says from the door to your workspace.

You look out the window and see the sun not even reaching the peak of the sky, he must be early, “I see, I will depart post-haste. Please see my luggage prepared for me.”

The maid does a curtsy and leaves. You’ll have to get someone else to send the letter on your way out but first, there’s something more important, collecting your weapon bags.';

'>>5955279
“Princess, I see you’ve come,” a pause, “prepared.” Inquisitor Asher says as he looks at both the weapon bags strapped over your shoulders and the three cases of baggage that a maid is currently handing off to a bellman who puts it on a luggage cart.

“Indeed, this is to be a prolonged journey. Is it not? I don’t see your bags anywhere, are they already on the train?” You ask, genuinely curious.

“Uh, no. I got another safehouse near where we’re going so I just need this overnight bag for the train.” He says shaking the backpack he has strapped on.

“Is it common for inquisitors to have houses in multiple locations?” You ask, your family has a palace or a castle in most regions of the country but it never crossed your mind the inquisition might as well for their agents.

“Depends on how often one tends to travel for missions. I do so I got at one in most major cities in Lindan, all paid for by the Church. Though don’t expect anything,” a pauses for a second and looks over the Royal Palace, “grand.”

You nod, “And the train, we will be staying overnight?”

“It’ll take about forty-eight hours to get to Ivern, where we’re staying, with all the stops on the way. Normally I’d be more worried about being cramped but your folks made sure we got the best of accommodations. So I’ll say working with royalty is pretty nice.” Your eyes widen when you hear Ivern, that’s where Cathrine lives, the northern border of the Highlands and the Lowlands.

“Does the inquisition not do the same?” Why wouldn’t they spend enough money to provide the best accommodations? Even Barons do that.

“We prefer to be a bit more incognito. That’s hard to do with a princess in tow, though.”

“So now you get to enjoy accommodations befitting those of wealth because you’re with me?”

“And I’ll be very sad when you become an actual inquisitor and I go back to living like a commoner.” You see something, you’re not sure what, flash in his eyes for just a second as he says this.

“Are you a commoner?” You question, you genuinely can’t tell.

“If I was I can assure I’d be too low rank for it to matter. Come on we’re burning daylight.” As the inquisitor says that he turns and starts walking towards the carriage that’s been provided for the two of you.

It doesn’t take long to start moving once you’re inside, the driver whips his horses into action the moment the door closes. But now you’re alone with the inquisitor on your way to the station. Now would be an excellent time to ask some questions.

>Ask about the mission and what you can expect

>Ask about your accommodations in Ivern, and perhaps leave a subtle hint about someone the two of you can stay with

>Ask about the train ride and what to expect, you’ve never ridden in one before.

>[Write-in]';

'>>5955287
>Ask about the mission and what you can expect

Meeting up is fine but full out staying with our friend might draw them into inquisition business which I'm not sure they'd appreciate.';

'>>5955287
>Ask about the mission and what you can expect
>Ask about your accommodations in Ivern, and perhaps leave a subtle hint about someone the two of you can stay with
>Ask about the train ride and what to expect, you’ve never ridden in one before.

Start with the mission, what his contacts have mentioned, who they are and whether they can help us further during the job. After we broach that, mention that we have a friend who lives in the area who we could stay with, or ask about any possible stranger related going’s on around the city. Talk a bit about these trains as some small talk. Finally, ask him about the history behind the Inquisition and how it started.

Really, it’s pretty much just choosing Everything +1.';

'>>5955287
>Ask about the train ride and what to expect, you’ve never ridden in one before.';

'>>5955287
>>>Ask about the mission and what you can expect';

'>>5955287
>>Ask about the mission and what you can expect';

'>>5955287
>>Ask about your accommodations in Ivern, and perhaps leave a subtle hint about someone the two of you can stay with';

'>>5955287
>Ask everything
We have 48 hours to talk.';

'>>5955287
>Ask everything';

'>>5955656
+1';

'>>5955289
>>5955290
>>5955293
>>5955306
>>5955360
>>5955422
>>5955656
>>5956201
>>5956475
Technically ask everything wins, but for this update I'm only going to write the runner up which is asking about the mission. The second thread will start on the train asking the other two.

I had to do a little bit of research on how long it would take a victorian era train to get to Edinburgh from London, the article I read gave like 38 hours to get from London to Glasgow. So I just rounded up to make it exactly 2 days.';

'>>5956637
>The second thread
That would be unnecessary. We're still on page 3.';

'>>5956637
Why start another thread so soon after this one? You’ve got some time before this one falls off, even if you took a week long break. Just look at some of the abandoned shitpost threads in the catalog, like this one. Sixteen days, no new posts, and it’s still on page 5.';

'>>5956651
I forgot to post the damn shitpost thread, of course…

>>5941243';

'>>5956644
>>5956651
>>5956656
I didn't know that. I thought threads fell off sooner than that. I feel more comfortable letting this thread go into hibernation then, thanks anons.';

'>>5956637
As the horses pull the carriage through the damp streets of the capital under an overcast sky you find yourself brimming with questions. Like how trains are demontech, or strangetech, knowledge taken from Earth and put into use in the real world. Or about perhaps signaling early that you have a friend- no an ally- up in Ivern that you’d like to meet but first, you decide to play things a bit more standard and ask about your upcoming mission. As you do so the inquisitor nods and talks like he has been expecting you to ask.

“Unlike what we went through last night this technically isn’t a Stranger hunt, since there’s no straight evidence of one. We’re going off of rumors.”

“Then why are we being sent all the way from the capital if there’s no confirmed Stranger?”

“Because that’s what most Inquisition missions are like. Strangers are rare, it’s uncommon there are more than two active in the country at any given time. So most of the time inquisitors are sent to places where strange happening are in order to deduce if it’s an otherworldly phenomenon or not.”

“And what happens if it isn’t Stranger related?”

“Depends on the problem, if it’s just a monster or something of the sort then usually the Inquisition lets the Adventurer’s Guild know about it then leaves it at that. If it’s something that needs to be solved immediately the inquisitor will do the best in their power to do so.”

“What could be so bad an inquisitor needs to deal with it?”

The inquisitor brings up his hand and starts using his fingers to make a list, “Heretics, normal serial killers, crime syndicates, things that threaten the stability of the realm. It also helps that Strangers usually end up involved in those messes if they happen to be around.”

“I see, that makes sense but wouldn’t that be overreach of the church’s authority? Would the Crown or a local ruling noble not be sufficient to deal with these threats?” You ask, curious and a bit perturbed about how much authority this organization might have in your family's kingdom that you didn’t know about.

It seems the inquisitor might of forgotten who he was talking to as he’s a bit caught off guard, “Ah- well, we do if they’re available. But usually, we work in places that don’t have much in the way of central government. Like now, while Ivern is a big city, where we’re investigating is past that and in the Highlands. And you know how little the Clans like to be governed by the Crown.” He’s not subtle when he deflects. He wouldn’t last a week in high society.

But he does have a point about the Highland Clans, your family is technically their overlord but they hate to admit it. They’ll still happily receive support and infrastructure paid for by the tax of other regions though, “I understand now. But the Highlands? What exactly will we be investigating?” You ask, going with the change. Never say that you aren’t a merciful princess.';

'>>5956685
At that the inquisitor looks relieved, “Right, there’s actually two things. First are rumors about a new adventurer who is rapidly rising the ranks of the guild. Says she’s got black hair and is unnaturally talented. Both of those are signs pointing to her being a Stranger, but she could just be a normal adventurer.”

“I get the unnaturally talented part, the Cheat Skill, right?” He nods, “But black hair? That’s a sign?”

“You’d be surprised.” Is all the inquisitor says on the matter.

“Alright, go on.”

“The second report is sightings of a metallic castle appearing overnight in the mountains. As far as we know no one has gotten close enough to investigate what it is, everyone’s too intimidated.”

“Even the Highlanders?”

“Yep, and it’s our job to see if there’s any connection between these two rumors, if they involve Strangers, and how much of a threat they are. All in all pretty standard.”

“A castle appearing overnight is hardly a standard occurrence,” You say with furrowed brows.


“You’d be surprised.”

The ride is over shortly after that. The carriage pulls up just close enough to the large brick building so that your walk inside is relatively short. You being a princess means your train is already there waiting for you. From what you can tell by looking into the windows of different trains is that yours is rather luxurious, with nobles and men of wealth dining in one car, while in the train opposite laymen are more crowded in seats less spread out. Nothing of poor quality but the class divide is certainly there. You didn’t even need to queue to get into the station, the perks of being royalty are always nice.

“Come on, the train leaves in an hour so let's get your stuff into your room before it takes off.” The inquisitor states as he himself carries two of your bags, while you carry one and your weapons on board.

The conductor sees you, along with the inquisitor, and steps aside without a word, “I didn’t know we’d be getting a room.”

“Two, it’d be a scandal for me to share a bedroom with the recently single princess.”

You blink, “Oh, I’d forgotten about that,” Not about your broken betrothal of course, how could you forget that? But about the improperness of it. When you were betrothed you never had to worry about things such as that, since you were engaged everyone always assumed- no that is not a topic to think about right now.

“They're right across from each other, in case you need anything. However, I’d recommend getting comfortable and maybe heading to the dining cart if you’re hungry to start off.” The inquisitor says as he stops by two very small “rooms” near the front of the train. There’s barely more than a tiny bed and desk!

He then opens one door, throws his bag on his bed, and closes said door. “Do you need anything?”

“Not at the moment, no.”';

'>>5956688
“Alright, then I’m going to get a coffee.” He says before walking off, leaving you to have to carry all your heavy bags inside your room. The nerve.

A few minutes later you find yourself reclining in the chair provided in your room, the train will start soon and a startling realization just hit. There’s barely anything do to here! You’ll need to starve off boredom before it hits!

>Scrounge your luggage to see if someone packed away a novel or two. However, this thought gives you a Euphoric! weird feeling.

>Go find the inquisitor and ask him the other questions you had

>Stare out your window and wish the train was moving

>[Write-in]

The Vote is going to be up for about a week, maybe a bit less. I'll still be checking the thread so feel free to keep giving suggestions. I'll post on the QTG when we're live again.';

'>>5956691
>Go find the inquisitor and ask him the other questions you had
Enjoy your hiatus, OP. Just make sure you let us know if something happens and the QM Curse decides to put something on your plate, okay?';

'>>5956691
>Scrounge your luggage to see if someone packed away a novel or two. However, this thought gives you a Euphoric! weird feeling.';

'>>5956691
>>Scrounge your luggage to see if someone packed away a novel or two. However, this thought gives you a Euphoric! weird feeling.

Got to get through those backlog of smutty romance novels you never had a chance to reduce while back at the academy.

Maybe some BL novels, suspected to be a genre introduced by a Stranger';

'>>5956691
>>Stare out your window and wish the train was moving
Fuck off, corruption books!';

'>>5956691
>Scrounge your luggage to see if someone packed away a novel or two. However, this thought gives you a Euphoric! weird feeling.

Alright, this seems like a good time to see what the deal is with Her';

'>>5956691
>Go find the inquisitor and ask him the other questions you had
I have one more: how do we deal with a Stranger that isn't destabilizing anything? Being a competent adventurer is not a crime.';

'>>5956691
>>Scrounge your luggage to see if someone packed away a novel or two. However, this thought gives you a Euphoric! weird feeling.';

'>>5956691
>Scrounge your luggage to see if someone packed away a novel or two. However, this thought gives you a Euphoric! weird feeling.';

'>>5956691
>Go find the inquisitor and ask him the other questions you had';

'>>5956691
>>Go find the inquisitor and ask him the other questions you had
No mystery box!';

'>>5956691
>>Stare out your window and wish the train was moving

I'm afraid of first option';

'>>5957001
>>5956691
support, I was wondering that as well';

'>>5956691
>Scrounge your luggage to see if someone packed away a novel or two. However, this thought gives you a Euphoric! weird feeling.';

'>>5956691
My suggestion is that instead of scrounging the luggage for a book the "euphoric feeling" more or less "guides" us to exactly where the book is in the luggage';

'Well... we could wander the train and talk to fellow travelers. Maybe there's some weirdos onboard too.';

'>>5956725
>>5957001
>>5957178
>>5957201
>>5957457
5 to find the inquisitor

>>5957346
>>5956768
2 to reject the other choices

>>5956732
>>5956764
>>5956819
>>5957067
>>5957160
>>5957895
>>5958011
7 for mystery box!

Looks like it's time for more questions than answers. Writing.';

'>>5961246
Your eyes idly drift to your luggage. you didn’t pack it yourself and didn’t get to tamper with it due to how fast you left, but maybe there’s a chance. Your servants should have known to pack at least something to keep you from boredom and you do have an admittedly small personal library. A lot of it is devoted to more informational materials though there’s a decent chunk of novels in there too. Some you would say are of a more romantic fashion, still all high literature though! You’d never read the filth that Cathrine has shown you on occasion! Never!

But perhaps a maid made a mistake and packed one of those types of books away? It can’t hurt to check, could it?

For some reason as you kneel and unclasp your luggage, you feel your heart rate increasing, and a small pressure in your head. Could it be something to do with the train’s magic perhaps? You aren’t informed enough to know, yet as you rummage past some clothes and other necessities the intensity of those feelings increase, all until your hand touches the hardcover of a book and pulls it out.

“Alice’s Adventures Under Ground? Or was it In Wonderland?” You whisper to yourself, you don’t remember reading this book before. Or even owning it. Yet, as you turn the marron-covered cover over you see it doesn’t actually have a title written on it. Why do you know the name of it? And why does the little girl on the cover seem so familiar?

You go back to your chair as you ponder these questions and relax fully into it. It’s probably something you read as a child, that’s the impression it gives off. But when you open the book you find every page blank, is this some sort of prank? Or is it some kind of notebook? Maybe?

The only thing you do know at this present moment is that

Your eyes

Are

Very

Heavy';

'>>5961288
“Mr. Dodgson, how many more photos are we going to take” The thirteen-year-old Harry Liddell calls out to you from your side as he adjusts the camera’s wooden stilts.

“Just one more, I believe. The sunlight is hitting the front of the cathedral at an angle I won’t be able to get later.”

“Alright, but father is looking rather impatient. I think we should be quick.”

“Henry’s probably just hungry. Besides, he’d need to wait for Alice and Lorina to get back from playing by stream anyways,” You comment as you bend down and get your camera in just the right position.

You're about to take the last photo you need of Christ Church before a great rustling in the grass behind you breaks you out of your concentration, “Mister D! Mister D!” Calls the voice of a young girl as she slams into your leg, momentarily making you lose balance.

You look down to see eight-year-old Alice Liddell excitedly shaking your leg as she looks up at you, a massive smile on her face. Confused you ask, “Alice? Where’s Lorina?”

“Ina fell asleep after reading your manuscript, but that doesn’t matter! I went back!”

Ah, so that’s what it is. Alice does have a rather overactive imagination, that only got larger when you started telling her the stories you had in your dreams to keep her and her sisters entertained. You wave off Harry to go to his parents, he’s been a large help but you can take over from here. And you doubt the teen wants to listen to his sister ramble on about what his sister was just dreaming about.

“You went back, did you? What happened this time?” You ask, playing along.

You somewhat expected Alice to step back and think for a second, but she doesn’t, “I saw the hare and hatter again! But the mouse was somewhere else! And the cat was talking to the queen when I snuck in! I think it was about something important but I couldn’t understand a word they said!” She rattles on.

“And what happened next in your dream?” You ask, hoping the young girl will wear herself out.

But she only stomps her foot and pouts, “It wasn’t a dream! I really went to Wonderland! I did!”

“Ah, right, of course, my apologies.” You say which causes her to continue listing off the things that happened. At the very least they’re good ideas to put into your manuscript, Lorina and Edith seem to think so at least when you retell Alice’s little adventures.

“And then-” Huff, “And then,” puff, “And then that’s when I left!” The girl exclaims as she starts to pant from speaking too fast.

You reach a hand down to pat the top of her head, “That’s nice Alice, but why don’t you-';

'>>5961299
>Wake your sister up?” The Liddells and their governess look about ready to start the picnic. They can’t do that without Lorina… Even if the girl does sometimes get a bit awkward.

>Get in front of the cathedral for my last photo?” It would make for a charming photograph

>Go over to your parents?” Alice looks a bit tired, and you can take the photo and fetch Lorina yourself.

>Your mental corruption rose by 5%';

'>>5961303
Oh and I forgot but a

>[Write-In]

Is always something I'll accept.';

'>>5961303
>Get in front of the cathedral for my last photo?” It would make for a charming photograph';

'>>5961299
>Get in front of the cathedral for my last photo?” It would make for a charming photograph
At 100% someone reincarnates into us. We are an otome game antagonist, after all.';

'>>5961303
>Go over to your parents?” Alice looks a bit tired, and you can take the photo and fetch Lorina yourself.

>>5961381
Really hoping we get a chance to visit the stranger’s world so we can find isekai mangakas to tell them to leave us the fuck alone at sword point. Might even be hilarious to visit the unconscious body of whoever got put into Anastasia Lyndale…

…or maybe Anastasia’s currently living in that body now? Wonder how she’s taking to the OL lifestyle?';

'>>5961303
>Get in front of the cathedral for my last photo?” It would make for a charming photograph';

'>>5961303
>Wake your sister up?” The Liddells and their governess look about ready to start the picnic. They can’t do that without Lorina… Even if the girl does sometimes get a bit awkward.';

'>>5961303
>Get in front of the cathedral for my last photo?” It would make for a charming photograph';

'>>5961303
>>Wake your sister up?” The Liddells and their governess look about ready to start the picnic. They can’t do that without Lorina… Even if the girl does sometimes get a bit awkward.
We're late, we're late!';

'>>5961332
>>5961381
>>5961429
>>5961630
4 to take a photo of Alice

>>5961412
1 to have Lewis Carroll handle everything like the adult he is.

>>5961536
>>5961643
2 to get Alice to wake Lorina.

Writing.';

'>>5961975
You’ve taken plenty of photos Alice before. She is such a cute girl, after all. Even if it takes a bit more time to set the bellows into the right position with her in the shot, you find yourself not caring. While you’re still adjusting everything you can hear Edith calling out to little Lorina, she must be joining the picnic but you need to focus-

And there, the perfect shot. Of the darling little girl who spends her time “adventuring” in another world.

Much, much, later, after your time in the Liddell’s estate, you return to your studio to process your photos of the trip. And as you reminisce on tutoring the Liddell children, Harry and the three sisters, you find the photo of Alice in front of the cathedral processing. But it is a strange photo, does little Alice really look like that? You find yourself wondering.

Alice’s hair is blonde, not silver, and her favorite dress is blue, not black.

Who is that woman standing in front of the cathedral in Alice’s spot? And why does she remind you of the eldest of the Liddell sisters?

…

Your eyes open with a start and it takes a second to reground yourself in reality. What a strange dream you just had, it felt like you were living a life that wasn’t your own. Is that what it’s like for most people who dream? You never really remember your own. You shake the thought away, you must’ve been out for a while, given the stiffness of your back and how the countryside is already passing outside your window, the sun hiding behind newly assembling clouds. You must not have known how exhausted you were if you’re still sleeping like this. That must be it.

You bring up your hand to rub the sleep from your eyes, momentarily forgetting it was holding a book when you were last conscious. Only to startle as something different is brought to your face, a photograph. It looks to have been taken by an expert in the craft but its contents are most disturbing.

It shows you.

A thousand questions race through your mind, the answers to none of them pleasant. Eventually, your mind settles on the fact someone must be messing with you, magically. You don’t ever remember posing for a photo like this, and the cathedral doesn’t even look familiar. Yes it does.

You idly wish you paid more attention to learning utility spells, like the ones that let you detect magic. As of right now, you can only feel the linger of something. Something Holy.

There’s a knock on your door, “You good in there princess?” Asher calls from the other side.

>Remain silent, perhaps he will just walk away.

>”Yes, I am,” He may come in but you’d rather not discuss what has just transpired with him.

>”...No,” You should probably talk with the inquisitor about this.

>[Write-in]';

'>>5961983
>”Yes, I am,” He may come in but you’d rather not discuss what has just transpired with him.
We can't be sure yet that he won't inquisite us if we tell him.';

'>>5961983
>”Yes, I am,” He may come in but you’d rather not discuss what has just transpired with him.

What the heck
Big mystery there';

'>>5961983
>”...No,” You should probably talk with the inquisitor about this.';

'>>5961983
>>”Yes, I am,” He may come in but you’d rather not discuss what has just transpired with him.';

'>>5961983
>>”Yes, I am,” He may come in but you’d rather not discuss what has just transpired with him.';

'>>5961984
>>5962028
>>5962064
>>5962309
With the exception of >>5962036 looks like everyone wants to have Lorina keep her secrets. I'm sure nothing can go wrong with that.';

'>>5962513
“Yes, I am. Feel free to come in, inquisitor,” As you say this you quickly hide the photo in a spot you’re sure the inquisitor would never look. Maybe you’ll discuss this with him later, but not now. Not when you can’t fully trust the man. Things like trust don’t come as easily to you as they did before.

The door slides open and you see a casually dressed inquisitor walk in carrying a steaming plate of food in one hand, and a glass of wine in another, “Room service!” He exclaims while setting the meal down on the table in front of you. Though he hesitates as he goes to set the glass of wine down, “Wait are you twenty-one? Er- wait, never mind,” he jumbles his words as he places the glass down.

“Huh? Why would that-”

“Never mind, it’s uh, an old habit. Doesn’t mean anything.”

You blink a few times as he fidgets a bit, “Regardless, why did you bring me food?”

“Well, they’re serving dinner in the dining cart and I hadn’t seen hide nor tail of you since morning. Thought you might be hungry is all,” he makes a weird face, “are you not?”

You are quite pleased that your stomach does not grumble and the inquisitor does not chuckle. His bringing attention to your impromptu fast has brought attention to the pangs of hunger, “No I am, that you would make a passible servant were you not already employed.”

He stares at you weirdly, “Yay?”

You continue on not deigning that a response, “It would seem yesterday exhausted me more than I expected, I fell asleep as soon as you left,” Which is technically the truth.

“Ah, sorry about that. Trust me that wasn’t exactly a usual day at the office for me either. But it turned out well enough so I can’t complain.”

“About that, there were a few more questions I wanted to ask,” After you say that the inquisitor immediately shuts the door behind him and walks to the other seat in your room. You take the time to lay a napkin on your lap and take the first few bites of your meal.

“Alright, shoot,” He says once he’s made himself comfortable.

“First, I wanted to ask about this train as I’ve never been on one before. It is demontech isn’t it? Knowledge taken from Earth and distilled by the Inquisition.”

“That’s the gist of it, yeah. I couldn’t tell you how it worked if that’s what you’re asking, but it’s all very complex and,” he makes a fluttery motion with his fingers, “magical,” his voice drips with thinly veiled sarcasm.

“But it is a rather new invention in this world, isn’t it? How long has the Inquisition known about it?”

“Again, I don’t really know. That’s someone else's job, but if your next question is going to be ‘How much more demontech is hidden by the church?’ Then I can tell you the answer is a lot.”

“That’s a brazen admission,” you state.';

'>>5962551
“Yeah well, I doubt any of it is going to see the light of day. Put yourself into our position, it’ll be yours soon enough anyway,” he mumbles, ”Imagine having very advanced and, I cannot stress this enough, dangerous technology locked in your closet. Now imagine it’s your job to give it to the public to improve their lives, while also making sure the public doesn’t also kill each other with it or the planet.”

“Dangerous enough to destroy the planet? You must understand how unbelievable that sounds.”

“That a pistol you got over there right?” You nod as he points to Cinder’s case, “That was strangetech that wasn’t supposed to come out. Now it’s spreading across the world at a rapid pace. Hell, if it wasn’t for the enchantments some of our guys did to the mechanics of this thing,” he raps his knuckles on the side of the train, “I’d still be making the air around it just a bit harder to breathe.”

“And all of this is stuff I will be learning?” You ask, causing him to shrug.

“Probably not if you stick around hunting Strangers with me, probably if you want to spend all your days in an archive barely leaving the cathedral you’re livin' at.”

“And am I to infer that the inquisition uses ‘unknown’ demontech to further its own goals?”

“Now that would be telling.”

“Hmph, there is another thing I wanted to bring up as well,” the inquisitor looks at you expectantly, “I have an, as you may say, ally in Ivern. The Marquess’ daughter, I was wondering if it would be,” you pause to think of the right thing to say to make this seem prudent to the mission, “acce[tible to meet to discuss any aid she can give us,” nailed it!

Inquisitor Asher raises an eyebrow, “This a social call?” At your stuttering response he continues, “Honestly, I couldn’t care less what you do in your free time. We’ll probably have a decent amount once we get to the city. So unless it’s like an active hindrance you can meet up with as many of your noble friends as you want.”

Friend, singular. You only have one. “Really?”

“Uh, yeah? Why would I care?”

“It’s just that usually there’s expectations to be upheld and the like and schedules to maintain and-”

“Woah- woah, slow down, princess,” The inquisitor says with his hands in the air, “You can stick to your little routines all you like, but it won’t be me that getting mad for not upholding decorum. Just listen to me when I tell you something and we’ll get along just fine.”

“I see, you have my thanks then,” You say with a little nod of your head, before taking another mouthful of food.

“Right, is there anything else?”

There is actually, a question that’s been gnawing at you from the back of your mind. But you’re unsure if it’s wise to actually say it. It even sounds borderline heretical, but what if a Stranger isn’t malicious? Is that something you’re going to have to deal with? Using strange powers to succeed at being an adventurer, a hero, isn’t a crime.';

'>>5962553
The inquisitor looks like he just sucked on a particularly sour lemon. Oh, you just blurted that out. Oops.

“You know, that isn’t a question people ask a lot. Good reason too. How about I answer with another question or two? What are the most common ways a Stanger can appear in this world?”

He’s not immediately turning hostile, that’s probably a good sign, “That would be possession, rebirth, and transportation, correct?”

He blinks, “Huh, you did your homework, yeah that’s right. They can either take over someone's body, the original still trapped within, a Stranger reborn to a normal mother and father can gain memories of their life on Earth, or they can simply appear as they were on Earth. You can see how your question is getting a bit more complex right?”

You nod, “I would rather my body not be hijacked from under me, yes.”

“Even if the person who steals your life is a complete altruist?”

You nod again.

“Right, other than that you’ve seen what a Cheat Skill can do already. Would you want someone with that kind of power getting the influence a high-ranking adventurer can provide? Like, I don’t know,” He clearly does in fact know, “direct access to nobility and royalty, like your family, and no one powerful enough to stop them should they get a bit ambitious.”

You nod again, but another thought comes to you, “Your statements are sound, but you do know it is startlingly obvious when you’re trying to manipulate someone?”

He pauses for a moment before he pouts. The inquisitor, the adult man, pouts, “Is it really?” He sounds on the verge of heartbreak.

You take back any previous mental comments, he wouldn’t last a day in high society, “I thought that manipulation was a skill all inquisitors are good at. Is that not true?”

“You don’t have to say it like that!” He throws his arms up into the air, “Look if, and that’s a very big if, we run into a situation like that, you’ll leave it to me. Understood?”

“Of course,” You can't help but let out a sophisticated chuckle, not a giggle.

“Whatever, I’m going to go do something else,” With that the inquisitor departs, probably to go cry or something. You bid him farewell, as is only proper. It’s only when he departs that you realize something important, he left you with the plate and glass! And you don’t even have a maid to take care of it! Ugh, how ignoble.

You’re still on the train, you still need to pass the time.

>Go explore the cabins, maybe there’s someone or something interesting on board?

>Look out the window and wallow in boredom, at least time will pass.

>Go perform some weapon maintenance, you don’t really need to right now but it helps take your mind off things

>Something else? [Write-in]';

'>>5962555
>Go perform some weapon maintenance, you don’t really need to right now but it helps take your mind off things

It would bring us back to our zen, wouldn't mind checking the train, might be a bit weird given our status';

'>>5962555
>Something else? [Write-in]
Pull rank and ask to see the engineer's station. Choo choo!';

'>>5962551
Hah, I was right.
>>5962621
Supporting this!';

'>>5962555
>>Go explore the cabins, maybe there’s someone or something interesting on board?';

'>>5962621
+1';

'>>5962555
>>Go explore the cabins, maybe there’s someone or something interesting on board?';

'>>5962555
>Go explore the cabins, maybe there’s someone or something interesting on board?';

'>>5962555
>Go explore the cabins, maybe there’s someone or something interesting on board?

Obvious Stranger is obvious.

Also, we should consider having one of our own maids take combat training and Stranger hunting classes so she can come with us, for situations like this.';

'>>5962555
>Go explore the cabins, maybe there’s someone or something interesting on board?';

'>>5962597
1 to be a zen shut-in

>>5962621
>>5962667
>>5962869
3 to take necessary steps to becoming a train otaku

>>5962681
>>5962954
>>5962981
>>5963020
>>5963130
5 to try and find something interesting.

>>5963020
Thank you for reminding me that battle maids are peak, I'm making a note of this. Writing.

He's never beating the allegations.';

'Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>5963218
Forgot to do a mental corruption roll for when you fall asleep next update. Anything but a 1-5 and you're fine.';

'>>5963218
Or that one tomboy maid who insists on wearing the butler uniform to pair with her feminine looking boyfriend.';

'>>5963218
It’s probably a good idea to stretch your legs a bit. You’re rather stiff from remaining seated much of the day. Besides someone is going to have to bring your plate back to the dining cart as you cannot bear to just leave it there. Then the thought comes to you that you don’t even know where exactly the dining car is. Hopefully, you don’t cause a scene trying to look for it.

You end up causing quite the scene while trying to find the dining car. Conversations stop, whispers start, and heads turn whenever you enter a new train car. Thankfully the nobelmen and women have enough sense to look away whenever they catch your glare but that doesn’t stop many of the whispers. It’s always the damn whispers. People seem to lose all higher thought when they’re in your presence. It makes sense, you are royalty and this is a rather unexpected appearance but still.

At least most of the whispers are people simply trying to make sure it’s you. That’s at least much better than the gossip around you at the academy. ‘Oh look, it's Princess Lorina! The girl not invited to Prince Herrman’s tea party!’ Or sometimes it was, ‘Didn’t Lorina get her followers to bully Lyndale? Even though she’s such a sweet girl!’ You didn’t even order that, you even reprimanded the people who did bully her! Then the worst of it was right before you were expelled, ‘Didn’t you see her confrint the Prince and Anastasia during the ball? She made such a scene! She totally got what was coming to her!’ All those and oh so many more idle whispers.

Your snarl shakes the confidence of someone who looked to be about to approach you. Dammit, you need to find a way to just forget about those two. Why does it have to be so hard!?

“U-um, miss? I can take that plate from you if you’d wish,” A well-dressed man calls out to you as you enter a new car, four away from where your room is.

You glare at him before what he says fully processes, remembering yourself you mumble a small thanks and hand it to him. Wanting to take no part in any ensuing confrontation or conversation you simply keep on walking, trying your best to empty your mind. It’s only when you’ve finally run out of train cars and see the rails moving away through the glass final door that you stop.

The car back here is mostly empty, and while there’s some unused seating it looks to mostly contain storage. Past the door, there looks to be a bit of railing as well as an older man looking off into the distant countryside overlooking the rails. Perhaps some fresh air will do well to calm you down, you cannot allow yourself to have another episode like that, it would be humiliating.';

'>>5963301
“Your Highness?” A deep and gravelly voice asks as you close the door behind you and take in the brisk air.

“Do I know you?” You ask the elderly man. He looks rather old, with his white hair and unkempt beard. But that’s not what your eyes are drawn to, that would be the small rabbit tail he possesses. This man is a demihuman, a descendant of the primordial people of the time before the Goddess.

“I suppose not, my time was well before yours. Sir Bartholomew Abram at your service,” he says though he does not stop leaning on the railing to bow.

“Sir? Are you a knight?”

“Indeed, I am. Knighted a long time ago,” He pauses to breath, “When this country was a much different place,” As the man says that, his gaze again turns to the land behind you.

You don’t know how long you stand in silence next to the old knight. The summer air should be hot but the overcast clouds and the wind from the front of the train give the air a soft chill. The scenery is rather nice too, you watch as farms and hamlets slowly congregate as the train gets slower and slower before stopping in a nondescript town you may never visit again.

The old man grunts, “Should probably head back to my seat, stop’ll be here soon. Best wishes to you, Your Highness, maybe we’ll see each other again someday.” And with that, the old knight departs to somewhere further in the train.

You’re not exactly sure how long you stay alone out here, but by the time you return to your cabin, it’s getting dark, and many of the passengers have departed. At least your head is clear even if nothing of note happened back there. And when you’re ready to sleep you find that it is a dreamless one.

You awake past midmorning, the curtains keeping the sun from your eyes but the noise from people entering the train wakes you. Very carefully you turn your pillow over to hide the drool on it and prevent Sophia, who you unboxed the night before, from ripping it.

Last change to perform any travel actions on the train before the next mission kicks off.

>You find yourself needing to talk to the inquisitor about something [What?]

>You’re kind of curious about how the train works, maybe you can check it out?

>...Five more minutes

>[Write-in]';

'>>5963302
>>You’re kind of curious about how the train works, maybe you can check it out?
>>Autistically daydream how one would best fight in a train, which weapons would be best suited, and the like';

'>>5963302
>You find yourself needing to talk to the inquisitor about something [What?]
We talked about the three most common ways for Strangers to appear, what about uncommon ways?
Also what kind of Cheat Skills do they possess? All different? Some more common than others? Some clearly more powerful than others? Surely the inquisition logs such information.';

'>>5963306
Be like the legendary Sabin, suplex the train.
Too bad the Sabin guy was an outsider who had to be killed.';

'>>5963302
>>You’re kind of curious about how the train works, maybe you can check it out?';

'>>5963302
>>5963306
+1';

'>>5963302
Both >>5963306 and >>5963378';

'>>5963302
>>You’re kind of curious about how the train works, maybe you can check it out?';

'>>5963306
>>5963378
>>5963639
>>5963773
>>5963814
>>5963909
Going to mix all of these votes together for the update. Looks like I'm going to be busy this weekend though so normal updates after this may be put on pause until Monday.

>>5963522
This would be rather funny.';

'>>5964032
You flop out of bed and begin your morning routine. It’s shorter than your usual one, the train is not big enough for the facilities of the palace or academy like a grand bath. But you prepare well enough for the day. Though all throughout your routine you find yourself in a half lucid state as your mind wanders as to how best you could fight on a train. Obviously, large weapons like Sophia are out of the question lest you were fighting on the roof. Sturmfahrerin is quite large and more suited for slashing but you think you could make it work in the cramped cabins, you’re tall enough to swipe above the seats at least. Though your unnamed dagger, your old gift, and Cinder would probably be best in a straight-up confrontation.

It’s only when you leave your little room do you realize that in your daydreaming you accidentally put on the necessary harnesses and scabbards to equip yourself with your weapons. Hopefully, it isn’t some social faux pas to be equipped while riding a train, and even if it is your status will make others turn a blind eye.

“You going off to war, princess?” Inquisitor Asher says from an open door to his room, his short sword resting in its sheath under his window.

“Inquisitor, am I to walk around unguarded and unarmed like you did yesterday?” He did not wear that sword while in your room yesterday, oops.

He raises an index finger, “First mistake is assuming I’m unarmed at any time,” hidden armaments then? “But I suppose your logic is sound enough, might get a stare or two though,” oh, you already get plenty of those.

Still, it’s best to change the topic from your small blunder, “Inquisitor, I had some more questions about our occupation,”

He blinks before waving you inside and gesturing to close the door, “What about?” He asks when that task is complete.

You relay them all, from the uncommon ways Stranger can appear to questions on Cheat Skills. Sure some of this information is common knowledge but the specifics never are, it’s easy enough to infer that’s how the Inquisition likes it. Both out in the open while at the same time very vague.

“You really want me to just infodump, huh?”

“Infodump?”

“Uh- never mind. But yeah I guess I can tell you that stuff but it can get kinda strange.”

“How strange?”

“Let’s just say every Stranger is unique, in both their arrival and their Cheat Skills. Both of which we, the Inquisition, don’t really understand and we only get madder each time we try to. So we have to deal with Strangers on a case-by-case basis, but an uncommon way I’ve personally seen Strangers come to our world is by turning into an item.”

You blink, “What do you mean by that?”';

'>>5964091
“Imagine a sword that can talk, real strange right? It sure was talking to it, I felt crazy. Apparently, his Cheat Skill turned him, a human, into a sword that got stronger with each thing it killed, he called it leveling up. It was an experience fighting a flying, talking, sword that could cast magic.”

“You’re right, that is madness.”

“I know right? But anyway, yeah some Cheat Skills are plain better than others. I’m not exactly sure if there’s anything that prevents two people from having the same Cheat Skill but I’ve never seen two Strangers that have. The current biggest theory is it has something to do with a Stranger’s mentality or desires before they come to our world,”

“Surely the Inquisitions has records and archives of all the Cheat Skills they’ve encountered?”

“I mean we do, but there’s a lot and I'd rather spend my free time doing literally anything else than going through them all.”

“Was learning them not a part of your training? I understand my circumstances are different than most but I thought that would be standard practice.”

“We got archivists and such to go over them, and they got to train and study the logs but my circumstances were just as strange as yours.”

“How so?”

“I joined up with the Inquisition when,” he pauses and bites his lip while looking off to the side for a moment, “when this body was only six years old. My training was both intense and secretive, totally not standard.”

“You joined the Inquisition as a child? Why?”

“Hey, at least buy me a drink before you try and grill me on my life, will ya?” The inquisitor smiles and laughs your question off, but you can understand the subtle hint. You will not acquire this information, at least not until the inquisitor trusts you more.

“I see, thank you for the information. Perhaps, I will check the logs when we return to the capitol,” you say with a small curtsy, “But there’s some other things I wish to do now.”

“Alright, see you around then,” He dismisses you with a wave.

The first thing you do when you leave is make your way to the dining cabin for a nice brunch. But after that, and a bit more daydreaming, you see the conductor of the train heading past your room and towards the front of the train. When he opens the door you see a storage room right before the engine containing metallic barrels containing what looks to be pure, refined, magic, as seen by the blue glow coming out of the glass at the top of the containers.

In your curiosity you find yourself trailing the conductor until you are actually in the room. Hearing your footsteps the man turns around, presumably to make you leave, only to stop, “Your Highness?” He questions.

“Correct, you are in the presence of Lorina de Lindan,” You state formally so that you can continue to gawk at the front of the train. But he doesn’t need to know that.';

'>>5964095
“It’s an honor to be in your service,” he bows, “Are you interested in the train's operations?”

“Indeed, I did not know their intricacies before boarding it. Could you perhaps give me a tour of the engine?”

“It would be my honor, Your Highness. As you may or may not know trains are magical constructs, powered by refined mana. It’s stored here right before the engine so that one may easily retrieve more should the engine begin to run out.”

“I was told previously that the design was changed from the demontech it originally was. How was it?” You ask as the conductor leads you to the engine car.

“Ah, it originally used a more mundane substance, we improved upon it with our own superior knowledge of magic to make it both safer and more efficient. Those Stranger barbarians didn’t know how to use magic properly. It’s ludicrous how they could make such a complex machination while knowing so little!” He laughs.

The engine room is small, cramped, and hot. There are a few people here who nod to you and show respect but seem a bit too busy to truly acknowledge your presence. Perhaps if you were a meaner woman you’d demand the peasants to grovel but their work seems important. Best not to disturb them.

The conductor gives a brief run-through of the operations, how the train’s engine keeps it moving, and how the wheels stay on the track. It’s all very complex, you feel like you’re back in the academy, but the complexities of the machinery are nowhere near as interesting as that of swordplay. However, you can see why there were a few people at the academy who absolutely adored the machinery that a locomotive possesses.

As the conductor leads you back into the storage room and starts to ramble about how the mana is stored, you hear a gunshot and screaming. A lot of screaming. A quick look out the window shows multiple horse riders trying to ambush the engine and the train starting to slow down as the riders point their weapons at the train driver. Though you also notice a horse belonging to a woman in the distance, they don’t look to be a part of the bandit group.

Your train is being robbed, and the conductor looks to be hyperventilating as he stares at the bandits through the window. Maybe it’s a good thing you brought your weapons.

>You should go to the engine car and make sure the train keeps moving. There seem to be bandits who’ve snuck inside the train but this will keep more from coming on.

>You should go find the inquisitor so that you can coordinate with him. He was still in his room last you saw him.

>You should go confront the bandits that fired somewhere in the passenger cars. The people are in trouble and need help immediately.

>[Write-in]';

'>>5964098
>>You should go confront the bandits that fired somewhere in the passenger cars. The people are in trouble and need help immediately.';

'>>5964098
>You should go confront the bandits that fired somewhere in the passenger cars. The people are in trouble and need help immediately.';

'>>5964098
>shoot one of the horsemen to scare tge rest, then go deal with the ones on the train';

'>>5964098
>You should go to the engine car and make sure the train keeps moving. There seem to be bandits who’ve snuck inside the train but this will keep more from coming on.
Plug the leak before bailing out the water';

'>>5964098
>>You should go to the engine car and make sure the train keeps moving. There seem to be bandits who’ve snuck inside the train but this will keep more from coming on.

Trains need to keep moving, if it stops that means they get swarmed. Eventually the horses will tire... unless magic allows unnatural endurance, if so we're out of luck.';

'>>5964098
>You should go confront the bandits that fired somewhere in the passenger cars. The people are in trouble and need help immediately.
Might as well go full fantasy and be a noble that actually does things for their people.

Also, OP, besides the guy who reincarnated as a sword, are there any actual magical items in this reality? Or is magic just mainly light shows, funny Latin or glyphs to show the mage characters doing things?';

'>>5964407
I don’t really have any desire to make any rules for magic so it’s is basically just funny light shows and random statements about how powerful someone’s mana is. Like all good trashy Isekai. But I don’t see any reason why magic items couldn’t exist, every good JRPG Hero needs their super special magic sword.

Magic is basically just rule of cool and you guys can totally just write stuff in you want to do with it since Lorina is proficient with it. Though I do imagine she’s best with buffing herself and her weapons.';

'>>5964098
>You should go to the engine car and make sure the train keeps moving. There seem to be bandits who’ve snuck inside the train but this will keep more from coming on.';

'>>5964098
>You should go to the engine car and make sure the train keeps moving. There seem to be bandits who’ve snuck inside the train but this will keep more from coming on.';

'>>5964098
>You should go to the engine car and make sure the train keeps moving. There seem to be bandits who’ve snuck inside the train but this will keep more from coming on.';

'>>5964098
>You should go to the engine car and make sure the train keeps moving. There seem to be bandits who’ve snuck inside the train but this will keep more from coming on.';

'>>5964098
>>You should go to the engine car and make sure the train keeps moving. There seem to be bandits who’ve snuck inside the train but this will keep more from coming on.';

'>>5964107
>>5964118
>>5964172
>>5964407
4 to confront the bandit who snuck onto the train.

>>5964151
>>5964172
>>5964462
>>5964668
>>5965008
>>5965746
>>5967140
7 to go to the front of the train to keep it moving. I'll work in >>5964135 as well. Sorry for the small hiatus but writing. Again, updates might get a bit shorter during action sequences.';

'>>5967400
Your first instinct is to rush to the passenger cars where you can hear screaming. People, your people, are under attack and you simply cannot stand idly by and let brigands terrorize them. But second to that is a hit of pragmatism, your people may be in an even worse situation should more bandits be allowed to stop the train. Outside the magifuel storage room, you see one of the ruffians take a shot at the engine cart. Why they’ve decided to stop the train with horses and guns you don’t know, but right now it seems to be working as the train starts to slow, allowing the horses to keep pace. Wouldn’t it have been simpler to just destroy the tracks?

You shake your head, now is not the time to ponder the bandit’s plot. The conductor is left behind as you break into a sprint the practically crash through the door to the front of the train. The sight of a terrified crew greets you, an engine stands from where he was hiding to try and usher you out only for a shot to blast through the window, striking him with both lead and glass. He falls, you’re not sure about his state.

The panic sets in on the men as they see their friend fall though your training does not let you falter, even as fear creeps its ugly tendril inside you as well. Your head snaps to the now “open” window to spot three riders, you unholster Cinder and return fire at the rider without much thought or aim. You don’t even know if you intended to hit the bandit or the man but regardless your shot strikes true, a mist of blood erupts from the closest rider's shoulder, knocking him from his saddle and under his horse. You do not stare long enough to witness the man get trampled by his frightened steed.

“What do you think you’re doing?! Your Princess stands before you and yet you cower! Keep this train moving no matter what!” You roar to the crew, shocking them to action. Good, that means you said the right thing! Probably!

The train driver is the first to stand from his position and rush to the controls, only to be greeted with more fire from the bandits. Never before have you thanked the impracticality of Cinder and her sisters until now. Or maybe shooting a train from horseback is simply a difficult task that the lowlives failed miserably at as both shots fail to hit anything but the metal of the chassis. The three other riders on the opposite side of the train look to conceal their shots until it’s already too late, only being able to shoot inside the passenger trains, for reasons currently unknown. It’s doubtful any of them will be able to reload in time for it to matter as the train goes faster and faster and the riders get farther and farther.';

'>>5967451
As you look back at them you see the strange rider from before, atop a white steed, pass the bandits and leap onto the top of the train. Something that should be impossible for any normal person. But the sight of long black hair flying freely from the rider as she lands cuts a striking image on the backdrop of the sun.

The crew you’re surrounded by work wordlessly to keep the train moving, though they do shy away from your gaze for some reason. The body of their friend lies still and out of the way, covering the ground with blood. The man's lifeless gaze reminds you that today marks the second time you’ve killed someone. Let the pounding in your heart and thumping in your ears does not allow you time to dwell. You’re not sure if that’s a good thing or not.

The screaming at the back of the train intensifies you

>Scale the train and head to the rooftops to confront the rider (DC 15 Roll)

>Head to the passenger carts to confront the brigands (DC 12 Roll)

>Perhaps the crew member is still alive? You use everything you know about healing magic to find out (Requires a Crit, 1 or 20) May have unforeseen consequences.

>[Write-in]';

'>>5967453
>Head to the passenger carts to confront the brigands (DC 12 Roll)
Possible Stranger sighted, probably should inform Asher to keep an eye out.';

'>>5967453
>>Head to the passenger carts to confront the brigands (DC 12 Roll)';