Kronos 2015/12/31(Thu)11:19 No. 690974 ID: 65a774
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Mmg…?
Godmorning, ‘eart butt.
Urgh!? B-by the f-five! Y-you’re crushing m-me!
Oh, please, I barely putting any weight on yah.
S-still…
And I’ve been sitting ‘ere for ten minutes already and yah didn’t complain.
Oh… err… still, can you please get off me?
Oh, do yah really want that? I mean, there’s at least one part of yah that want me to stay ‘ere…
That’s because you keep grinding against me!
‘e seems to really like me~
Please stop and get off…

>Maybe we should take a more physically active role in in this relationship. Not necessarily anything sexy...
That’s easier said than done…
>Also consider asking what she thinks of abstinence before marriage. Just to see the look on her face. It's a joke of course.
Considering how… forward she is, you’re actually considering proposing abstinence for real… if you weren’t afraid that she might eat you in your sleep if you did.
Rub rub rub~
…being eaten might be worth it…


>So... The Antidote that you had during her fake poisoning was a nasty surprise for her or was it also planned?
She said it was a surprise, yes, and while nasty, it did sell the whole poison thing a bit better.
>We need to make sure that our bodyguard doesn't tell this to your father, it may be troublesome.
Direct quote from Sisah, “I only care about getting paid which only requires that you’re alive at the end of all this”. So no, she won’t tell your father.
>Tell her you are sorry for not trusting in her being able to take care of herself.
“Trust and trust, it was sweet of yah to come to my aid.”
>If she IS planning to kill someone, some prior notice would be nice.
“Well, I’ll get back to yah when I’m planning to kill someone.”

So… got any plans today? Or do yah want to come with me and run a few laps? …maybe take a nice long bath afterwards… just the two of us…
…
Or maybe you want to stay right here… and do some training… just between the two of us… in the sofa… right now~
Urgh…

1. Recruit Squad Members
2. Investigate Leads
3. Train Stats
4. Schedule an Appointment with Your Sister
5. Find more girlfriends

Any questions?

when does cain come back?

Anyways, I'm actually getting worried here, I mean with all this political backstabbing... and literal backstabbing, I feel we should set up our own spy network in the castle so we can actually get some warning the next time someone is planning on killing us or someone we know. The castle staff seems to like you(or at least your own staff) so see if you can't get them to keep an ear to the ground for you. Then you also have your friends some of which are in some fairly high places who might be able to add there friends and or coworkers/underlings into the mix. It might not be a far reaching network but hopefully we can build it up into something that will at least give us a good idea on what's happening around the castle at all times. Oh and keep trying to make friends with Bri's brother. It never hurts to have friends, especially these days.

Also I think you should start looking into escape plan. By that I mean try to find a way out of the castle and have a safe house set up somewhere (maybe even out of the country) for you to run and hide in incase things go bad. I mean First Krotos was "found" to be a traitor and now your other brother seems to be following a similar route. I mean for gods sake your sister is already planning on taking him down and that makes me uneasy for many reasons. The biggest being that if this goes off without a hitch you'll be second in line for the throne after your father steps down. Which actually for the first time puts you into the running of actually becoming king, something of which you have no real idea how to do. I mean the likelihood of any of this happening is slim to none of course but I'd rather have something I don't need then need something I don't have.

Well, while others think of future politics, I'd recommend trying to slip out from under her before she causes a full mast. We should probably get a run in though, if all this goes south we might be running and exerted more then normal.

Let's go bath jogging!

Kronos 2015/12/31(Thu)14:37 No. 691001 ID: 65a774
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>Investigate Leads
Which leads do we even currently have? Let’s see… your brother asked you to meet him alone tonight… which sound rather fishy… and the temple is up to… something. There’s also the whole thing with Xuv… you really need to talk to her about Belseth sooner rather than later… and then there’s the old man that might be some kind of death spirit and that weird, wooden story teller… Where to start?

>Find more girlfriends.
Ugh… one is already causing enough trouble as it is…
>When does Cain come back?
He should be working today… so he’s probably around here somewhere… you do hope he got your message yesterday.
>Schedule an Appointment with Your Sister.
You really should talk to your sister about all this… in fact, where is she even? You’re pretty sure she would want to be present to something as important as this whole diplomatic envoy thing that’s currently happening.

>I think you should start looking into escape plan.
To where? You’re not really well versed with the world outside the castle grounds…
>I feel we should set up our own spy network in the castle so we can actually get some warning the next time someone is planning on killing us or someone we know.
You have no idea where to even begin with something like that? Maybe Bri would be able to share her Intel? …or you might talk to Cain about it… he seems to have a knack of stumbling unto information as far as you know…

>We should probably get a run in though, if all this goes south we might be running and exerted more than normal.
Right… first, get off me, Bri.
Aw, yah’re no fun…
Second, get out so I can dress in peace…
Aw, no show either?
Third… I need to get my blood flowing…
But-
To other places then that, so let’s go for a run, alright?
If that what yah want, ‘ubby.

…

*Gasp* huff… huff…
Working up a sweat, my prince?
Oh, Cain… I… I’m just a bit out of breath…
Well, seeing as you’re currently watering most of the garden with your personal water reserve, I thought it would be prudent to bring some refreshments.
Cain… y-you’re a life saver, you… huff… know that?
Yes, I do believe you’ve told me that before, sir… now, where is your lovely wife?
She’s running another lap… told me to stay here until she was done.
Ah, yes, of course. Someone her size would need to spend a lot of energy unless she wanted to create a gravity-well big enough for her own orbital phenomenon.
…w-wait, did you just call h-
Now, I did get your message yesterday, sir, and I’ll have you know, being the gossiper that I am, I always have an ear for the latest news. So do please ask if it anything you like to know.
Oh, right… just… let me rest a bit…
Of course… oh, and sir? Should I draw up a bath for you and the lady? …the big bath, of course… at least we don’t have to fill it to the fullest, all things considered.

>>691001
Tell Cain to stop calling your wife fat, she might hear it and kill him or something.
Also ask him if there's any way you can maybe get the servants to all keep their eyes and ears out for interesting information, then report it back to you.

Jokes can be in poor taste, Cain. Also I don't know how good her hearing is.

Alright, I need to hear anything my brother's requested recently, the company he keeps, stuff like that. If anyone knows anything about goings-on in the temple I could use that too, but I don't expect you to find much there.

>To where? You’re not really well versed with the world outside the castle grounds
ask some of your friends and servents who live outside of castle grounds if they have any spare rooms or maybe even a place they own but don't go to very often. I mean it's not much but if something happens that you need to leave the castle without any time to prepare it will at least give you somewhere you can go while you think of what to do next.

>You have no idea where to even begin with something like that? Maybe Bri would be able to share her Intel? …or you might talk to Cain about it… he seems to have a knack of stumbling unto information as far as you know…
well spy network may be a bit strong of a word. What I really meant was to get your servants and friends to let you know any gossip that may be going around as well as letting you know if they see anyone strange in places they shouldn't be. I mean Bri's ninja found a clue about your brother by overhearing some of the gardeners bitch that someone was trampling the flowers next to the window that leads into his room. Plus nobody really ever pays attention to servants running around all the time so they might over hear something or see someone that shouldn't be there. Just tell them to let you know if they see or hear anything strange or have someone pass it along to you if they can't get to you themselves.

As for Bri... Seeing how she's been planning on taking down your brother for awhile now and was willing to frame one of her own generals I'm hesitant to say the least about involving her in this. I mean yeah we can ask her for help from time to time cause she as a better spy network then we ever will but I feel like it might be a good idea to keep some secrets from her. As for cain weren't we asking him to help us set up a spy network for us anyways?

>Ah, yes, of course. Someone her size would need to spend a lot of energy unless she wanted to create a gravity-well big enough for her own orbital phenomenon.
... you feeling alright Cain, you seem a little upset?

>Now, I did get your message yesterday, sir, and I’ll have you know, being the gossiper that I am, I always have an ear for the latest news. So do please ask if it anything you like to know.
ask if he can help set up a spy network of sorts with people we can trust. Not the cloak and dagger kind of spies but more just people let us know if they see or hear anything crazy.

Kaktus 2016/01/01(Fri)05:34 No. 691080 ID: 65a774
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>Ask some of your friends and servants who live outside of castle grounds if they have any spare rooms or maybe even a place they own but don't go to very often.
Hmm… you think Tim has some kind of summer house he stays at from time to time?
>As for Bri... Seeing how she's been planning on taking down your brother for a while now and was willing to frame one of her own generals I'm hesitant to say the least about involving her in this.
…It might be prudent to stay out of her way, yes…

>...you feeling alright Cain, you seem a little upset?
Ah, of course not, sir… we just had a bit of an… argument before you came to this morning, sir. Nothing important, believe me.
>She might hear it and kill him or something.
Oh, please. I’m just skin and bones, sir, hardly appetizing for someone like her.

>Ask him if there's any way you can maybe get the servants to all keep their eyes and ears out for interesting information.
I’m pretty sure they are already keeping their ears open, sir, as the gossip around the castle usually is worth its weight in gold… not literal gold, of course, but as gossip, so to speak.
>Ask if he can help set up a spy network of sorts with people we can trust.
Well, I do have people around that keeps me informed of any going-ons, if that helps, sir. After all, I need to keep myself informed of everything that happens around here… especially when they tend to forget to tell you, my prince, what you need to know, hmm? So, if there is anything you need to know, please do ask.

>Alright, I need to hear anything my brother's requested recently.
Let’s see… disregarding his usual request for candy and sweet drinks… he’s been reading a lot of old story books about the war. There have also been a few books about the culture in the Dynasty to the south, so he might be planning his next business trip there.
>The company he keeps.
There are rumors that he has a mistress… someone that climbs through his windows at night. He’s also been seen around General Thalia a lot lately… so if you put one and one together…
>If anyone knows anything about goings-on in the temple I could use that too.
Oh, there’s a lot of rumors about that, sir, but most of it is rumors. Everything from them building angels to them finding demons in the basement. They are even supposed to have found a new god, but you can’t believe everything you hear, sir.

Oh, and speaking of your brother, I did hear something interesting about him. Apparently, he’s gathered a few guards and are planning on capturing a mass murderer tonight.
…wait, mass murderer?
Ah, see, they have found some dead… if you would excuse me language, whores recently. They aren’t sure if it’s the same murderer or if it’s just a bad month to be a whore but your brother has apparently found some kind of trace. So he’ll putting up a trap tonight to catch the murderer in the act.
Uh huh…

*Huff*Huff* There yah are… and scrawny is ‘ere too!
A pleasure to see you again, madam.
I can’t say the same for seeing you, bony. Now, are yah going to train some arm muscles with me or are yah giving up, Kronos? I mean, either way, yah’re still going to ‘ave to wait for me before the bath…
Well, I should, if the master wishes, draw one of the smaller baths if you want to bath individually at different times.
Oh, please, who could say no to scrubbing this nice backside of mine? Besides, don’t you have some cheese to munch on?
I do believe some would have to give up thanks to time constraints, ma’am. So, sir, would you like to take your bath now or wait for the lady?

You can see Bri is once again staring daggers at Cain, while he is simply returning the gaze with his usual boring look. You have a feeling Bri might have a knack for getting on peoples nerves.

So, it seems your brother is planning on framing you for murdering whores. Probably had them killed by his men to have a means of doing so.

Tell Bri that things have come up in your own investigation, and you need to look into them.

Let's go find Tim, and have him help us with the Xuv prayer ritual this time. I'm wary of having the same person (Cain) do it too often in case it has a strain on his body/mind, like Kronos bleeding from doing the other prayers too much.

...I can't help but wonder if those dead whores are hivers what with the other rumor we heard saying that you're brother had a thing for them. Any who I think it might be wise to skip the meeting tonight with him. Just leave a note in his room or something saying something has come up and you can't make it.

As for the bath... I'm going to have to say pass on bathing with Bri. apologize that you had to cut this short But Cain has reminded you of a few things you need to take care of. We can make this up to her later.

Then follow Cain down and talk to the guy, let him know that if there's something wrong he can let you know and you'll do what you can to help. I mean the guy is one of your best friends and seeing how often he's been there helping you over the years the least you can do is lend him an ear to talk to.

Oh and see if you can't track down Tim, ask about the summer home of his and say with all the excitement that has been going around the castle lately, what with all the murders and attempted murders, it may not be to bad of an idea to get away for a while somewhere less... murder prone. Just run the idea by him and we can work from there. No I'm not suggest we run... not yet anyways just get things set up incase we do need to book it.

Sounds like we need a fall guy. or, lady. Suppose we could convince Thalia that her dear so-and-so is preparing something special for her at the time of the trap?

>You have a feeling Bri might have a knack for getting on peoples nerves.
You just now figured that out? You're as observant as a box of hammers. Your powers of ignorance are unparalleled. Thank goodness you didn't need a spy network to figure that one out, or get informed of it after you wake up in a hospital for the third time.

Sorry Bri, I've got some work needs doing.

>who could say no to scrubbing this nice backside of mine?
Well, unless I'm forgetting something, or wasn't told about a meeting I'm supposed to attend soon, I'd say Briannah's right--As long as you can continue to keep your limbs, tail included, to the appropriate portions of the body, Bri.
>So, it seems your brother is planning on framing you for murdering whores.
I'm not sure where you're getting this? I figured the meeting and the trap were two completely separate matters.

>>691184
>I'm not sure where you're getting this? I figured the meeting and the trap were two completely separate matters.
Because this family has a history of serious mental problems.

Two can play at this game Bri, say "well if my wife is unable to bath with me right now I suppose I will have to bath alone, so if you would be so kind Cain.", then get up and leave with him.

Kaktus 2016/01/02(Sat)11:08 No. 691252 ID: 65a774
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>So, it seems your brother is planning on framing you for murdering whores. Probably had them killed by his men to have a means of doing so.
It’s possible… or it’s possible it’s just coincidence… whores dying isn’t something new in a city this big.
>...I can't help but wonder if those dead whores are hivers what with the other rumor we heard saying that you're brother had a thing for them.
Let’s hope not… if he really have that kind of… fetish… things would look rather ugly for the royal house if word got out. …you mean killing women he’s slept with, not sleeping with bugs… err… Hivers.

>I think it might be wise to skip the meeting tonight with him.
While it’s possible it’s a trap, just skipping the meeting will solve nothing. He’s bound to have a plan B… or at least some other idea he can spring on you at a later date.
>Sounds like we need a fall guy. or, lady. Suppose we could convince Thalia that her dear so-and-so is preparing something special for her at the time of the trap?
You’ve only met this Thalia once before… you’re not sure you can convince her to do something like that… especially if they have a secret relationship.

>Two can play at this game Bri.
I’m sorry, Bri, but Cain here just enlighten me with some things I need to do so sadly I have no time to waste.
Aw…
So… if my wife doesn’t have time to spend with me… Cain, how long does it take to fill the big bath?
…about ten minutes, sir… should I send word so it’s ready for you?
Tell them I’ll be over shortly.
Very well…

>Then follow Cain down and talk to the guy, let him know that if there's something wrong he can let you know.
So… you and Bri?
Ah, nothing to worry about, sir… we didn’t see eye to eye over something she did and… she’s not good with criticism.
…what did she do?
She acted a bit rash and… let’s just say that she made some more level headed people annoyed at her… which makes them annoyed at me.
…wait, who-
By the way, sir, shouldn’t you start heading towards the basement bath?
Oh, no, I’m actually just going to take a quick shower, Cain.
… … …and Briannah?
I’m suspect that in a few minute she’ll sneak into a bath trying to surprise someone who isn’t there.
…well played, sir.

…so, who is this level hea-
T-there’sh no ‘ope… what’sh the point, eh?
You’re lying in the middle of a corridor. If you’re going to brood should you at least do it somewhere a bit more private?
…we’re alone… we’ve always been alone… alone in the darkness… there’s nothing… just… nothing… lies…
If you’re feeling alone, might I suggest getting some friends? I mean, I’m in a regicide club that’s always looking for new members if you’re interested?
Rats gnawing on the rotting carcasses… we’re noting but ratsh…
Belseth?
Oh, my prince! Good to see you!
Sweet… shweet oblivion… that’s all it is…
Don’t worry, I’ve already sent someone to take care of… him, Kronos. Geez, he’s making it sounds like the world is ending or something.
The world ‘as already ended… we’re just too stupid to realize…

>Let's go find Tim, and have him help us with the Xuv prayer ritual this time.
Another ritual? Well, I guess? It would be interesting, sure… just give me some time to set things up and… err… take care of this?
There’s only DARKNESShhhhh… ugh…
>Ask about the summer home of his.
My summer cabin? Oh, it’s not a place for the likes of you, my liege.
…just in case, Tim… if you understand what I mean.
…oh… oh, right… well, I guess it’s not a place someone would come looking for a prince… it’s in the middle of nowhere… not very large either… but… it’s enough for little old me.

Five… six… seven… all LIES!!!
Um… but what about mr.broody over there?

See if you can't get Belseth to notice you. If you can ask him why he's drinking, we talked about this and he said he'd cut down on the drinking. Also don't worry about the world, it's not over yet, the gods still stand, the world is still filled with life, and there's probably more going on in the background beyond mortal eyes see then just the world getting ready to die. anyways do you need help getting back to your room?

If he doesn't notice you then just have tim and cain help you move him back to his room.

Grab Belseth by the neck and interrogate him on what the Church is doing. Do not let up until he passes out. Then punch him awake and continue interrogating. Then Briannah gets a turn.

This is the critical point, you have to get as much intel as possible while he's broken!

>>691288
This, but try seduction before punching

Tell Belseth you might know what he's taking about, but if so, he's not entirely right. Invite him to the Xuv ritual.

>>691252
Tell him you have something to show him that will cheer him up. Bring him.

In fact, take everyone involved to the ritual. Cain, Bri, Tim, and Belseth. Briannah should be out of her bath by the time the ritual circle is prepared, I expect.

Belseth might not react well, so make sure he can't just run out the room. Also Xuv won't react well, so be sure to tell her that Belseth hasn't been speaking to Illasia at all. Nobody has, and in fact the archbishop is trying to create a new god. Or become a new god.

With the revelation that Xuv is an exiled deity, Belseth might become a willing spy for us. Xuv's plans are sunk anyway since Belseth isn't going to get anyone pregnant.

>>691332
>>691347
I honestly don't think taking him to the ritual would be any good, I mean even if we could convince him to help an not just rat us out he's so wasted I don't think he can do anything other then feel sorry for himself and maybe drunkenly flail a bit in surprise.

>>691347
Xuv might not even respond if she knows there are more people around, but I guess there are worse ideas. At this point I think Belseth just needs something to believe in again.

>>691252
First let's figure out what exactly he found out that crushed his faith. Wiggle that 'eart butt of yours to get Belseth's attention and ask him what happened.

Kaktus 2016/01/03(Sun)08:48 No. 691510 ID: 65a774
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>Invite him to the Xuv ritual.
…is that rely a good idea? He’s a priest after all… not to mention really drunk at the moment.
>Grab Belseth by the neck and interrogate him on what the Church is doing.
You’re not going around torturing people for information… at least not people you know… and you got professional for that kind of work. No, you should at least try talking first.
>Try seduction before punching.
…you’ve never been good at seducing someone… mostly because you lack the experience. Why seduce someone when you can get a professional at a flick of a wrist?
>Wiggle that 'eart butt of yours to get Belseth's attention and ask him what happened.
You’re not wiggling your butt in front of anyone. You’ll just have to talk to him instead.

Belseth? Can you hear me?
…Kronos? …I… I didn’t want yah to see me like this…
Is something bothering you? You seem a bit… gloom.
I… it’s nothing you need to worry about…
Come now… I’m your friend, aren’t I? If you need someone to talk to I’m here right now, aren’t I?
…
…don’t you trust me? Please… I can’t help you if you don’t let me help you… so… tell me what’s wrong…

…tell me… Kronos… have you ever had your life goal… ye reason to live turn out to some kind of eternal lie? That something you believed in just turned out to be the machinations of your own twisted mind? Have you ever worked all your life for an eternal reward just to be told it never existed in the first place?
It can’t be that bad, can it? The gods has-
The gods are just illusive dreams created by the feeble minded… creatures created by ego, selfishness and pride, prayed to by the weak willed. We’re simply drifting aimlessly in a world of make believe, our mortal bodies doomed to perish and our souls to be lost in the nether.
But we’re supposed to enter the Celestial city-
There are no gods… only mortal, selfish creatures pretending to be ones… there are no afterlife… just… oblivion…
…

…Kronos… the gods… they are… they…

Kaktus 2016/01/03(Sun)08:49 No. 691511 ID: 65a774
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BARF!!!
…

Kaktus 2016/01/03(Sun)08:49 No. 691512 ID: 65a774
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*Snrrkk*
…ew?
*Snore*…
Err… maybe we should take him back to his room to rest?
Here, let me help…

>Take everyone involved to the ritual. Cain, Bri, Tim, and Belseth.
Wait… you want your wife to come? Why? She’s not religious, is she?
Well, err…
And this drunkard? Isn’t he a priest? I mean… if the church sees that we’re praying to some kind of sixth god they might… well, they’ll probably not do anything to harsh but still… I rather not annoy them fruitlessly.
Not to speak of that he’s not in any condition to attend the ritual, sir… if you want him with you, you’ll simply need to wait for him to regain his wits.

It seems like if I want them to attend the ritual you’ll need to do it later… there’s also the whole thing with your brother and the meeting tonight. You should probably start planning something if you want to avoid the trap he’s set… if it even is a trap.

Hey, you never did answer my question, did you?
If I would take a wild guess, that might have been because you interrupted him, Tim…
That’s irrelevant!
Ah, yes, like most details that paint you in a bad light?
Exactly… now, about your wife to be…

probably not the best idea to drag them into things at this time. just have cain and Tim bring Belseth back to his room while you quickly go clean your feet then met up where you did things last time. As for what to do for the trap... Honestly the only thing I can think of doing is go to your father for advice. Don't say you think you're brother is behind the murder of that general but think he might have got mixed up with them somehow and you're worried. Try to play it up as you're the concerned little brother... Only other plan I can think of is to leave a trail, something that if anyone did try to say you killed someone you could have someone point out that you couldn't have done it since you where with them. Guess we could try asking Tim and Cain as well after the ritual for any ideas they might have and maybe Xuv if we can get a hold of her but she's on a time limit so probably best to save that question if we have time since she probably doesn't have a clue how to solve this since she's been locked away for so long.

So the gods are so powerful that the 'puny ant' power comparison is used, but are simultaneously a bunch of impostors?

Alright then, everyone, if any of you learn about a guard buildup in the palace, especially around my brother's sphere of influence, make up some reason you urgently need me to be somewhere else at eight. It's possible it's not a trap, but he's instead trying to win me over to his cause with some revolution showmanship, in which case I'll just play the sheep.

While she doesn't believe in Gods, she's been curious about spirits and the like whenever I mention them. As for Belseth, he was talking about how the Five were made-up. If this sixth one is real, then perhaps she avoided whatever made him think the others aren't there?

Kaktus 2016/01/04(Mon)10:11 No. 691663 ID: 65a774
File 145193109841.png - (63.63KB , 686x526 , 9.png )

>Have Cain and Tim bring Belseth back to his room while you quickly go clean your feet.
Luckily, you’re still in your training clothes and were going to take a shower anyway…
>So the gods are so powerful that the 'puny ant' power comparison is used, but are simultaneously a bunch of impostors?
Well… someone should be very powerful yet not be a god… or it’s just drunk ramblings from a depressed man.
>As for what to do for the trap... Honestly the only thing I can think of doing is go to your father for advice.
Hmm… would your father even believe that your brother was out to get you? It’s worth a try, you suppose.

>Met up where you did things last time.
Err… you’ve already drawn the rune and everything?
I wanted to try out this prayer, alright? Something is just so… fascinating with it.
>While she doesn't believe in Gods, she's been curious about spirits and the like whenever I mention them.
Uh huh… I guess seeing an old prayer would be interesting if she has a fascination for it.
>As for Belseth, he was talking about how the Five were made-up. If this sixth one is real, then perhaps she avoided whatever made him think the others aren't there?
Err… I’m pretty sure, even if this sixth god exists, she won’t just appear in front of us when we say the prayer… and besides, of course the five exist. There are simply too many facts in the world that proves they are here.

>Alright then, everyone, if any of you learn about a guard buildup in the palace, especially around my brother's sphere of influence, make up some reason you urgently need me to be somewhere else at eight.
Well… um… actually, I don’t know if it got anything to do with your brother or not, but one of my guard pals was called in for an extra shift right before eight today… was supposed to do something at the eastern gallery at eight with a bunch of other guards. It blows, because we were supposed to hang out tonight.
Sir, the eastern gallery is one of the locations your brother suggested meeting at… the other being a rather solitary part of the garden.
…great, so he’s definitely planning something.
Either way, I’ll forbid you for going to that meeting for your own safety.
AH!? Where the…
I’ve been following you around all day?
You have?
She has, sir… you’ve just been… ah, distracted by other things.

Can we get on with this prayer before there are any more interruptions?
Err… right, of course…
Now… we still need a sacrifice… something of beauty, according to the text. See, I would suggest myself, but I know you complained last time I did it… so, any other su-
*Knock*Knock*
Kronos? Yah in there? It’s kind of mean to leave a girl all alone like that, yah ‘now… yah did promise to wash my back, no?
Err…

>I’ve been following you around all day?
it's moments like this I agree with your old man that you need a body guard. So since she's been by our side through all of this and knows everything we know about our brother think she might be able to actually convince your father that your brother is up to something. No offense but your father doesn't really trust you... sorry, but from what we heard him say about your body guard plus what she told us about what she has done for your family he might actually believe what you have to say if she backs you up.

>I wanted to try out this prayer, alright? Something is just so… fascinating with it.
do... do you want to talk about it later? I mean people could say that I'm a little obsess with these old prayers but you're starting to make even me worry.

>Kronos? Yah in there? It’s kind of mean to leave a girl all alone like that, yah ‘now… yah did promise to wash my back, no?
Do we have a freaking tracking spell on us or something? As for what to do... well she's been in here once already but at the same time after hearing about all her cloak and dagger things she likes to pull I'm a little hesitant to show her more. Ah fuck it, go out and great her real quick and playfully joke you have no idea what she's talking about you said you where only going to take a quick bath for one. From there see what she wants and if she wants to come in and be a part of these then whatever if not then let her go on her way.

>…great, so he’s definitely planning something.
All we need to do now is think up a reason you couldn't show. Hey, if we do the prayer, we'll have a medical emergency! providence!

>… yah did promise to wash my back, no?
mm, that's not how I remember it at all.

>>691663
If Tim's really something of beauty, he can use himself. We've been reassured the "sacrifice" isn't going to be consumed. Otherwise I suppose Briannah could act the part.

Invite Briannah in, tell her you've got something cool to show her.

>>691698
just get flowers again god damn.

I wonder how Elete is doing.

Let Briannah in and get this party started.

the heart in your butt is undoubtedly a thing of beauty.

Offer it

Why are we suspecting your brother of trying to murder you? I don't remember finding any evidence leading to this conclusion, if anything he just wants us out of the way somewhere safe and secluded so we don't end up in the crossfire when his goons ASSassinate Bri.
Its also possible that he is going to try indoctrinate us into his little lizard hating club.

Kaktus 2016/01/05(Tue)10:17 No. 691846 ID: 65a774
File 145201782066.png - (38.39KB , 686x526 , 10.png )

>Why are we suspecting your brother of trying to murder you?
He’s probably won’t murder you… but it still looks like he want you removed. He probably want you dumped in some remote mansion to be forgotten about… like what Xuv said your faith would be before you met her.
>It’s also possible that he is going to try indoctrinate us into his little lizard hating club.
It wouldn’t surprise you if that was his plan A.

>So since she's been by our side through all of this and knows everything we know about our brother think she might be able to actually convince your father that your brother is up to something.
Well, two accounts are usually better than one, yes… and it seems like she’s suspecting something is wrong too.
>The heart in your butt is undoubtedly a thing of beauty.
You’re not giving your butt to a crazed sex god.

>Invite Briannah in; tell her you've got something cool to show her.
A magic prayer to some forgotten god?
Shh, not so loud.
This can be interesting… and here I was just going to ask what yah wanted for lunch, but that can wait, can’t it?
>Do we have a freaking tracking spell on us or something?
Yah’re not exactly subtle, ‘ubby. I simply asked the first servant I came across near ye quarters and she directed me here. Well, she said she saw yah talking to Tim, but still…

>Do you want to talk about it later? I mean people could say that I'm a little obsessed with these old prayers but you're starting to make even me worry.
Hey, I’m just interested to see if this actually works or not, alright? It’s just my professional curiosity that’s speaking.
So… this god? What kind of god are we talking about?
I do believe it was one over death, love and beauty?
And now we need a sacrifice of beauty…
Well, then yah’re in luck, aren’t you? Because the most beautiful creature in the palace just arrived, didn’t she?
Most beautiful? Ha! No, no one can match my beauty… just look at this fabulous hat!
Ah, that does explain your lack of romantic life then. Your hat is simply out of the league of every Cibic in the city…
Shush…
And what will master Kronos say when he hears his faithful wife throws herself at the first god she meets?
Kronos doesn’t need to know what ‘appened between me and the death god, count annoying... also, I was joking.
I do believe we got that, yes… thank you for clarifying the obvious, ma’am, I don’t know what we would do without you.

>Just get flowers again god damn.
Flowers? Bah, I don’t think a god would be content with just flowers on the first date…
Eh… guess it can work?
I’ll see if I can get some fresh ones at once, sir. It just take a moment…

…

There… let us begin… Xuv… the beautiful… the majestic… we call to you, xuv…
I still don’t think some damn flowers would be enough for a-

Kaktus 2016/01/05(Tue)10:17 No. 691847 ID: 65a774
File 145201782946.png - (38.55KB , 686x526 , 11.png )

…
…
…
Err… guys? Hello?

Kaktus 2016/01/05(Tue)10:17 No. 691848 ID: 65a774
File 145201783841.png - (49.25KB , 686x526 , 12.png )

Ah… such fine sacrifices… and just for little me?
Xuv!? Wha- but… Didn’t you… wait, sacrifices? Plural? Are you talking about the flowers?
Flowers? Why would I care for flowers… no, I’m talking about these two… they were willing, no? Oh, yes, this is your wife, is it not? She is a real beauty… I can’t decide if I should breed her or just consume her to gain it. Probably both?
Wait, you can’t just-
But she’s already taken, isn’t she? No, I’ll just have to be content with the Cibic… oh, yes, I can feel it… it’s craving for me… wishing for me…
But you said-
Ha! I’m just messing with you, little birdy. No, I won’t do anything to them. But, just so you know, flowers are a really crappy sacrifice… I usually don’t appear for anything less than a beautiful daughter or son, but beggars can’t be choosers. Now, why did you call me here?
…err… did you… paralyze them or… stop time?
Well, time does seem to be going rather slow right now, no?

>I usually don’t appear for anything less than a beautiful daughter or son
what usually happens to your scarifies? Also is time actually stopped right now or am I in a coma again like when I went down into the crypt and got a face full of poisonous spores?

Anyways a quick update, it seems the church is adding a new god to the roster and form what I heard this god is supposed to be the god of gods, like the guy who made all of you. Not sure what your sister has to say about that but I can't imagine why she'd plan something like this when she seems like she would want to hog the spotlight for herself not throw someone else onto the center stage. Also your fate defying dragon, Belseth seems to be gay, as in he prefers to share his bed with other men. Also a drunk.

And if you actually care about my personal life it seems my brother is trying to frame me and I met someone calling themselves the chronicler the other day.

So that's the short version, any questions?

Huh, I figured she'd just use one of them to speak through as her "Acceptance of the sacrifice." I'm guessing she's using Cain again?
>what usually happens to your scarifies?
She mentioned breeding them, so probably sex.
Lets not throw the wife at the first God she met.
>Well, time does seem to be going rather slow right now, no?
I was kind of hoping Bri would be exempt from that, but I guess her deital atheism prevents that.

>Also your fate defying dragon, Belseth seems to be gay, as in he prefers to share his bed with other men
That's why we get him drunk off his ass and with a masculine woman. Xuv already said a one night stand would work.
>my brother is trying to frame me
We don't know that. Stop being so paranoid.
Or do be paranoid but don't push it at others, at least.
>Not sure what your sister has to say about that
Since when does Xuv have a sister? I'm pretty sure their only relation was that they were both gods.
> I met someone calling themselves the chronicler the other day.
While not important, this may still be good to bring up.

Important things to note:
* Belseth is only into men, so I'm going to have to work extra hard to get him drunk enough to sleep with a woman, or find a hermaphroditic partner he'd be comfortable with
* Belseth mentioned that the Gods, Illasia included, weren't even in power any more, though that may have been drunk ramblings
* There also seems to be a Seventh entity working to take it all away. Possibly related to Illasia's loss of power.

>>691860
>That's why we get him drunk off his ass and with a masculine woman. Xuv already said a one night stand would work.
For one that would most likely get Belseth to hate our ass if we did something like that to him and right now he's our only real source of information about the going ons inside the church so I'd rather not. Plus he's not really a horny drunk, more of a "cry tears into my beer and lament about how life loves to kick me in the balls" kind of drunk

>We don't know that. Stop being so paranoid.
Rumors are saying our brother is devising a way to catch a serial killer tonight, he wants to have a meeting with us tonight, Both Bri and our Sister, the future queen, believe our brother is involved with the anti-Sakkilian group if not leading/funding it and ARE planning on removing him. While we have no hard proof that he is trying to frame or harm us at this stage it would be foolish to ignore him as a possable threat. In short we should hope for the best but assume the worse or it may cost us. Plus I'm pretty sure Xuv can't do anything about it anyways it's more just keeping her up to speed with things.

>Since when does Xuv have a sister?
Illasia, I was talking about Illasia. it was said that Illasia was Xuv's sister

Oh and this reminds me, since Bri is here tell Xuv that she's a Sakkilian so she has an actual idea of what we're talking about whenever we talk about our wife so we don't have to wast 5 minutes trying to explain what a Sakkilian is anymore.

Two assassins were hanged yesterday, there's a Chronicle guy wandering around the area, and Belseth replaced his faith with enough alcohol to fire-fart his way into space.

So, what can you give us?

Hey, move like five feet to your left during the conversation. Or take something off of one of them. (like Tim's hat) I want to be able to prove time passed during your conversation.

>>691848
Well the first and most important thing to mention is that Belseth is gay, so he's not going to get anyone pregnant. Her plan failed. Also Belseth knows that all the gods were at one point mortals, so he's been talking to someone who knows privileged information. The current theory is that the arch-bishop is trying to ascend to become Xuv's replacement in the Six. Also, Belseth thinks there's no afterlife- that's not true, is it?

Secondly, can she actually show herself to at least Briannah because everyone's starting to think you're going crazy and I don't think she'll mind. Everyone here is trustworthy, anyway.

Oh one quick little thing before time starts back up again, move to the other side of the room.

Walk around the room, see if people notice your change in position when time resumes.

Any ideas on what my Brother is planning? Or why Belseth became a drunken doomsayer?

>Stop being so paranoid.
People have done nothing but try to kill us or deceive us. Be VERY paranoid.

Ssso, Xuv, you remind me of my wife, with your lechery and threats of pseudo-cannibalism, so I need some relationship advice; what do I do to make Bri stop treating me like a plaything? What did my brother do?

Kaktus 2016/01/06(Wed)12:20 No. 692001 ID: 65a774
File 145211160036.png - (65.95KB , 686x526 , 13.png )

>Huh, I figured she'd just use one of them to speak through as her "Acceptance of the sacrifice." I'm guessing she's using Cain again?
…You’re not sure… you can’t see Cain anywhere but… she looks like herself, doesn’t she?

>Is time actually stopped right now?
For you, it is. I’m in your mind, so to speak, and thus everything seems to happen in an instant from their perspective.
>Hey, move like five feet to your left during the conversation. Or take something off of one of them.
Err… what are you doing?
I’m stealing Tim’s hat… as proof as this really happened. Come on! Did he glue this stupid thing on?
You’re not actually touching him right now, Kronos. As I said, everything is just in your mind.
>Can she actually show herself to at least Briannah because everyone's starting to think you're going crazy and I don't think she'll mind.
…if you want to, I can talk to her a bit, sure…

>What usually happens to your scarifies?
I’m the god of LOVE! What do you think? …and if they are willing, they might even go so far to sire my children as they live out their life in luxury and plenty.
So… you don’t eat people?
Only if they want to become a part of me… most gave their bodies after they’ve already expired but some… oh, yes…
>Since Bri is here tell Xuv that she's a Sakkilian so she has an actual idea of what we're talking about.
So these are the newts you talked about? Hmm… they almost look like us of the dragon blood… but they don’t have horns? …and no wings either? Hmm…

>Well the first and most important thing to mention is that Belseth is gay, so he's not going to get anyone pregnant.
…what? No, that’s not… but according to the texts… it can’t be… I’ve seen the possibility… have… have Illasia done something to… no… there has to be another possibility… let me think.
>Belseth knows that all the gods were at one point mortals, so he's been talking to someone who knows privileged information.
Wait, what? Who have told you lies like that? We are eternal! We are forever!
I’m pretty sure you mentioned yourself that you’ve not always been a god…
…It’s possible I might have been… mortal before, but now? Now we are eternity! But who told the dragon this? Illasia? It doesn’t seem like something she would do.
>Also, Belseth thinks there's no afterlife- that's not true, is it?
Have you not seen the grand celestial city we constructed? The kingdom of the heavens, where all souls under our cares goes to live for eternity?
…No?
…then I… can’t actually tell you if there is an afterlife or not.

>Any ideas on what my Brother is planning?
Hmm… hatred… not even his love for you will stop him to get his revenge… yes…
And that means?
That you should be careful. He’ll probably not harm you… but you’re still not safe.
>Two assassins were hanged yesterday.
Ah, so you saw the old man?
I think I saw him, but I wasn’t able to talk to him.
>I met someone calling themselves the chronicler the other day.
Chronicler? Ah, you mean history? Oh, I remember it… it tried writing a romantic comedy about my life. Kept bugging me about the title of the book. But yes, it too should know who I was in my glory days, so it should be able to vouch for me.

>It seems the church is adding a new god to the roster and form what I heard this god is supposed to be the god of gods, like the guy who made all of you.
What? Inconceivable! We are the gods! How could a mere mortal ascend to godhood!?
…err… didn’t you-
We bathed in the very realm of mana, the river of souls! That thing dried out thousands of years ago! There’s no way someone could become a god… unless one of us gave them our godhood! No, I won’t believe Illasia would allow something like that. No, it’s probably just a new guise for her… she’s deceiving you to think she’s the god of gods! A filthy liar! Betrayer! FREAKING SHRUB!

>So, what can you give us?
Give you? I’m imprisoned deep within the earth… the only reason why you can even see my body is because of your mage friend here… hmm… you do have some interesting friends, don’t you? Oh I know… what I can give you is some… secrets, yes…
Secrets? As in… secrets the very gods-
oh, nothing like that, no. Instead… look around you. See your wife? A beauty… yet… so twisted, isn’t she? Most people would grow to hate it after going through what she did… but she? She relish in it… addicted to it… her worldview twisted to see it as the only way to show love. Oh, she is so afraid right now, because of you. She believes you think she’s disgusting… ugly… a horrid person who can’t be loved.
…she does?
And your mage friend… so lonely… so desperate… it would even try to summon a god of death to find someone else… hehe, I’ve seen this before. Not many Cibics around here, are there?
No, there aren’t…
And the one with the artifact imbued in her flesh? The serpent? So much regret… so much self-hatred… yes… So many secrets she keeps to herself… so much guilt. She tries to lie to herself about her motivation, that she’s doing this for martial gain… but in the end, she’s doing this for redemption. Her sins is the only things she cares about, to find a way to make things better again after all she’s done… murderer…
Wait, sins?
And the one I’m possessing. Oh, such loyalty… he knows everything about you… yet, you know nothing of him. So many secrets… so much deceit… manipulation. He’s the one who has lied too you the most, yet… he’s the only one here that you can truly trust. The only one who doesn’t have some kind of self-motivation to care about you… such irony, the liar being the only one you can trust.
…wait, you’re talking about Cain? He’s been lying to me?
Hoho… you know what… let’s keep this interesting… hmm… let’s see… three questions.
…what?
I’ll give you three questions about your friends. No more, no less. Do choose them carefully.
But-
You asked what I could give you? Well, this is my boon. Now, three questions.

When she answers a question, don't ask another until you're satisfied with the answer. Don't settle for prophetic bullshit.

What do I do to make Bri stop treating me like a plaything, like my brother did? What is it that happened to her?

To what ends does Cain lie?

...
what would it take to ease their burdens?

What would it take to earn there trust?

What does Bri know of the gods and their games? As in I know she saw the chronicler or history as you call him but she was hesitant to say anything about him or that she even saw him.

Oh and on more question before you go, about you Xux. You seem to be regrowing you flesh, are you getting better?

>>692001
Sigh, she's still hung up about Illasia. Drop the bomb on her. We're pretty sure at this point that Illasia got stripped of her godhood after Xuv was banished, because she did... something that would lead to the end of the world, and the other three gods were not happy about it. I'm guessing it had something to do with that apocalyptic premonition we had. It's possible that the premonition's events were somehow avoided in the end, though, by actions taken long ago. But the point is, Illasia is dead. If anyone's behind fate being different from what she expected, it's a mortal or organization with delusions of grandeur. Perhaps, Illasia's legacy lives on, after her death? Unless... she was banished recently? Nawwwww, probably not. It would have to be before the elemental gods went inactive, which was long ago. Oh. As for the method of ascension, bring up the Well of Souls. Could that be used to become a god? Or at least be used as a source of power to give you that fucked-up vision and attack you in your sleep? Is there any way to trace those attacks back to the source?

Hmm. Three questions... well, we basically know Briannah's deal. She was seduced by your brother and still has a huge hangup over it, which led to her addiction to sex. You have to make up for rejecting her so much. Tonight. An honest explanation of why you're avoiding her is in order, and maybe you should FINALLY HAVE SEX WITH YOUR WIFE.

...I wonder if Tim likes Sakkilians? I wonder if Belseth likes Cibics? They might work out together. Or maybe we should just suggest Xuv give Tim an experience to remember, as the willing sacrifice.

As for the questions... wouldn't it be a betrayal of trust to invade in their personal business? At best we can ask why Cain has been lying and manipulating you.

Maybe we can ask about their favorite things, for surprise gifts?

>>692005
>regrowing flesh
She's doubtless gaining some small amount of power from the prayer ritual.

>everything is just in your mind.
Shoot.
>if you want to, I can talk to her a bit, sure
Yes, do that. Also tell Tim something simple, like 'Thanks for the magic power' or 'bring a better sacrifice next time'. Something that denotes something happened, but not necessarily how powerful you are. You might even get a proper follower out of it.

>…wait, you’re talking about Cain? He’s been lying to me?
Uh, duh. He made his own copy of the key to your chest and tricked you into thinking you did so. You trust him to have it, sure, but that doesn't mean it was your idea to have it made. His keeping secrets doesn't matter, though, since despite them all, he's loyal to you.
>...I wonder if Tim likes Sakkilians? I wonder if Belseth likes Cibics?
While the Cibic are both genders at once, the Dragon is supposed to mate with a Varkian.
...Although I suppose it would solve the issue of Tim's loneliness.
>I’ll give you three questions about your friends.
How can I convince Bri that I still love her without breaking my wordless promise to wait until the wedding to, ah, consummate it? I mean, I guess half the point of that promise was to prove I love her, but still.

>What does Bri know of the gods and their games?
This is a good one, but perhaps word it more along the lines of Immortals than gods.

Other than those two, both for Bri, anything deep we should ask them directly. So...

What kind of partner does Tim seek?

Actually hang on, what's the artifact she's talking about? In Sisah?

>>692048
She has cyborg eyes, probably among other things.

>>692006
>We're pretty sure at this point that Illasia got stripped of her godhood after Xuv was banished, because she did... something that would lead to the end of the world, and the other three gods were not happy about it.
It was the four elemental gods, not three, and from what we've heard so far I'm pretty sure that they stripped Illasia of her godhood for causing the collapse of the Old Empire. I base this on Xuv saying before that the only crimes serious enough for the gods to take such action against one of their own was either for killing a fellow god or causing the fall of the Old Empire. And Chronicler/History said, in a roundabout way, that the primary source of the Old Empire's power was something irreplaceable that came from the heavens, correct? Xuv can say whether this is true or not and what that thing was. And Illasia didn't have the power on her own to imprison Xuv, right? Xuv can also confirm this. If these are true then the most probable course of events that's also in line with what Kronos heard from praying to Ifocen and Gaisia is that Illasia tapped into the Old Empire's source of power to get the extra power she needed to imprison Xuv. This pushed the power source beyond the point of recovery and without its power to keep the Old Empire's many wonders running the Empire catastrophically collapsed shortly afterwards. However, what Chronicler also said indicates this great source of power was running down anyway, so Illasia just accelerated the end, though if not for her it would have likely been a gradual winding down instead of the floor getting knocked out from under the Old Empire.

>>692073
Oh, yeah, that explanation works a lot better. Seems like you put together the pieces that I totally forgot about. Thanks.

Kaktus 2016/01/08(Fri)11:35 No. 692220 ID: 65a774
File 145228173838.png - (65.61KB , 686x526 , 14.png )

>When she answers a question, don't ask another until you're satisfied with the answer. Don't settle for prophetic bullshit.
That would be prudent, yes…
>...I wonder if Tim likes Sakkilians?
You’re pretty sure Tim only likes other Cibics. Most people are like that, only into their own species… yourself included… for the most part.
>You have to make up for rejecting Briannah so much. Tonight. An honest explanation of why you're avoiding her is in order.
…yes, she does deserve to be told, doesn’t she? You should really spend some private time to sort all of this out.
>and maybe you should FINALLY HAVE SEX WITH YOUR WIFE.
…

>You seem to be regrowing you flesh, are you getting better?
Err… and those three questions only count if they are about my friends secrets, right?
Indeed… but yes, it seems that the influx of magic your little mage friend gave me is working wonders on my body. Too bad it will be decaying again in just a few minutes.
>Also tell Tim something simple.
No.
…what do you mean, no?
No, as in I won’t do that. The mage is irrelevant, you or your wife aren’t. So no, I won’t show myself to it.
>maybe we should just suggest Xuv give Tim an experience to remember, as the willing sacrifice.
Hmm… but I might change my mind later…
>Actually hang on, what's the artifact she's talking about?
Are you blind? Her eye? Arms? That big shield generator in her chest? She’s a walking arsenal. In fact, all those things are bound to be draining her… heh… such sacrifices…

>Wouldn't it be a betrayal of trust to invade in their personal business?
Of course! That’s what I love about this boon. Are you greedy enough to breach their trust? …or do you trust them enough so you don’t need too?
>Maybe we can ask about their favorite things, for surprise gifts?
Heck if I know. I’m more about secrets and emotions, not gift that will arrive under the winter solace.
>What would it take to ease their burdens?
Boo! That’s clearly three questions in one! Not accepted!

>What does Bri know of the gods and their games? As in I know she saw the chronicler or history as you call him but she was hesitant to say anything about him or that she even saw him.
…she what?
She saw the Chronicler.
… Really? That’s interesting… interesting indeed. I clearly must talk to her a bit, then.
>How can I convince Bri that I still love her without breaking my wordless promise to wait until the wedding to, ah, consummate it?
Her twisted view comes from her youth, from the time between her father and your brother… show her what love really is, show her it’s more than simply physical contact. Then… when she’s emotionally safe…
Why do I have a feeling you’ll tell me to fuck her…
No, I was going to suggest that you make love to her.
That’s-
There’s a big different. She might not know it, but there is… and you will show it to her. A romantic night will be the start… but believe me; things like this will take time. Oh, and try to not let her take too much control, or it will simply become about sexual desires again.

>What kind of partner does Tim seek?
One that doesn’t exist… one that will never be with him.
Wait, then how do I-
You do nothing. This mage will meet several of his kind that would make excellent partners… no matter what you do. But if he actually ends up with one of them is another matter, as your inaction will result in it meeting death alone…
…there has to be something I can do, as there’s no way his future is set in stone.
…Well, as you managed to say that without asking a question… I already told you what you need to change in him, haven’t I?
>To what ends does Cain lie?
Loyalty to his country, loyalty to the king, loyalty to your sister… loyalty to you. That man really seems to think highly of you… of course, without you he would be a simple servant, uneducated and forgotten. I’m sure it wouldn’t be too hard to win his trust and ask what he lies about yourself… all you need to do, after all, is show yourself to be a bit more… reliable.
Hey, I’m reliable!
You just summoned a god of death in the very palace of a kingdom, without either the king or the coming queens knowledge. A god of death, that I might add, is probably thought as heretical by the current church. I’m sure whoever is in charge over there would love to have a talk to you if they knew.


>Sigh, she's still hung up about Illasia. Drop the bomb on her. We're pretty sure at this point that Illasia got stripped of her godhood after Xuv was banished.
Impossible. If they did strip her of her power, then why was I left to rot, huh?
>But the point is, Illasia is dead. If anyone's behind fate being different from what she expected, it's a mortal or organization with delusions of grandeur.
Gods can’t die! We are endless! We will always exist!
>Oh. As for the method of ascension, bring up the Cradle of Souls.
Do you realize how many souls that would take? Whole countries would need to be sacrificed, their very souls consumed by the new god in question. Millions would need to die… and leave just an empty husk of a nation behind. Who would want to rule over such a nation, made out of dust and death? No, Illasia is still alive, she is still in power… and she h-has somehow incapacitated the others and… and… she’s behind all this. GODS CAN’T DIE! WE ARE ENDLESS! ETERNAL! We cannot… we can’t… we will always exist… even after the world withers and dies… we will…

Kaktus 2016/01/08(Fri)11:35 No. 692221 ID: 65a774
File 145228174891.png - (46.86KB , 686x526 , 15.png )

…we… we… we will… exist. We are immortal… yes… we will never… die?

>Millions would need to die… and leave just an empty husk of a nation behind.
You mean like the fall of the old kingdom or the fact that for the last decade we've been at war with the Sakkilian which only just ended and now our kingdom and the Sakkilian are in a shaky alliance being threaten form within by those who would rather see the war between our two kingdoms continue even know the whole point was to try and strengthen both weekend armies so they could stand against our more warlike neighbors who only haven't declared war on us because they're afraid the other one of the two kingdom will attack them in the back while they slaughter us? Plus with that one vision we had where that one guy killed all the gods and life in the world in general leaving the planet a barren rock might have been a warning about something some stupid prick is trying to pull off to become a god because they want immortality or some bull like that and don't care what price they have to pay to achieve it.

>We are immortal… yes… we will never… die?
Xuv, are you alright? ...Well I've talked enough as it is so would you like to say something, get something off your chest, ask me some questions? You know I'm here to help, even it's just to lend a ear to someone who needs it.

>>692221
...was she friends with her, in a way? As a rival? Or is she worried about the possibility that she's going to die someday? I'm afraid that is the case. The world has a cyclic existence, and her group of gods was no different. I wonder... are the other four gods not responsive because they've run out of power? Or are they straight up dead, and the visions are being sent to us from the afterlife?
...it's possible the other gods didn't have the power to bring her back from exile. Or something else prevented it. Or maybe they thought she deserved it?
I think we might have to speak to the Old Man or the Chronicler again to confirm what happened to the other four and if Illasia is truly dead.

>I already told you what you need to change in him, haven’t I?
Hmm, then we have to get him to realize his expectations are unrealistic. He's looking for someone that can't exist, so help him realize he's being foolish, and he'll find someone he can be happy with.

>is probably thought as heretical by the current church
Nope, they recently passed a new law saying it's fine to pray to whoever you want to, which is exactly what you're doing. Heresy is defined as spreading lies, as far as we know, which we certainly aren't doing.

>Whole countries would need to be sacrificed
Maybe... just one. The hiver nation has a lot of people in it, doesn't it? That's their main advantage, iirc. Population growth.


...is there something she'd like us to investigate now? Aside from figuring out what the archbishop is up to? If not, maybe she can talk to Bri next.

> If they did strip her of her power, then why was I left to rot, huh?
They're probably gone too. Must have used up the last bit of their power doing it.

You know, I'd understand you lying to me. Everyone does. I'm used to it.

You seem to by lying to yourself. That, I don't understand.

Think about it, what is the exact spirit-chemical/neuroscience process required to create a god? What if there is more to this than a simple "Insert ten million souls here" process, in terms of both ritual specifics and side effects? What if there was an easier way to exalt someone and you'd never know?

For an immortal, you're not thinking long term. Methinks we need to get you out of your cell, all the loneliness is making you crazy and introverted. If you can taste the sunrise again, will you remember what you were before all of this? The amnesia might include the exact specifics of WHAT happened that made you immortal and wrote a new era into history.

>…we… we… we will… exist. We are immortal… yes… we will never… die?
...Okay, if the gods can't die then what about falling asleep or into something like a coma? Could their power been sapped away to put them in such a state? Or their source of power faded and they had to put themselves into sleep stasis to keep alive? ...Actually, just what is the source of the gods' power anyway? The continuing source, not the one that made them in the first place?

>Impossible. If they did strip her of her power, then why was I left to rot, huh?
Yes, why didn't her fellow gods come to her aid? They would have surely released her before going on to pass judgment upon Illasia for her actions, wouldn't they? The story the Chronicler told you of Xuv's fall likely contains the answer to why they didn't: "Once there was a dark queen, mighty and grand, her beauty and grace known all across the land. Her love and compassion was beloved by all, but one fickle being that was bound by jealousy, a thrall. A being of light, a being of hate, it threw the queen into the very depth she had herself helped create. Such a simple prison wasn’t meant to hold, but then something happen neither had foretold. An age came to an end, the empires fell, and as the old world was forgotten so was the queen as well." Based on this you'd say Xuv's fellow gods would have gotten her out if not for the end of the age happening right after her imprisonment. Whatever caused the end of the Second Age and the Old Empire must have also sapped the gods' power, leaving them unable to. The judgment on Illasia likely came after they found they couldn't release Xuv, but whether they could have followed through on that judgment you don't know.

Also, based on the line "such a simple prison wasn't meant to hold" you have suspicions that Illasia did not plan to imprison Xuv for anywhere near as long as she has been. Perhaps Illasia only wanted to put Xuv away for a bit and give everyone a scare that their beloved goddess had vanished, then let her out again.

...There is one quick and simple way to check if Illasia is still kicking around, but you'd really rather not do it if you could avoid it: Perform Illasia's prayer ritual. If you get a conversation instead of memories of a bygone age like the other rituals did, then you can say that Illasia is alive. Otherwise, you're out of ideas for getting sure confirmation Illasia is alive, but maybe Xuv knows of a way to check that is discreet.

>Whole countries would need to be sacrificed
Wait, what if that's why your brother wants to put an end to the Sakkilians?
>GODS CAN’T DIE!
Then she was imprisoned, or somebody stole her powers. You originally promised me her powers, so there must be a way.

Kaktus 2016/01/11(Mon)09:45 No. 692989 ID: 65a774
File 145253430002.png - (40.17KB , 686x526 , 16.png )

>Hmm, then we have to get Tim to realize his expectations are unrealistic.
You guess you should talk to him about it at least.
>...There is one quick and simple way to check if Illasia is still kicking around, but you'd really rather not do it if you could avoid it: Perform Illasia's prayer ritual.
Let’s not draw the ire of whatever is out there. If she’s not alive, whatever that offed her might still be.

>Xuv, are you alright? ...Well I've talked enough as it is so would you like to say something, get something off your chest, ask me some questions?
W-what!? No, I… I’m fine. It’s nothing. I’m a god, it’s impossible for me to not be fine.
>You seem to by lying to yourself.
Ha! Me? Lying! Inconceivable! I am DEATH! I AM LOVE! I AM ETERNAL!! I WILL NEVER DIE!!

>...Okay, if the gods can't die then what about falling asleep or into something like a coma?
Hmm, yes, of course. Something… Illasia or something else must have… yes, like my original theory! She must have done something!
>Then she was imprisoned, or somebody stole her powers.
Serves her right if someone did. Oh, mark my word, I’ll find her and teach her not to mess with me again.

>...Actually, just what is the source of the gods' power anyway?
Why souls! Or magic! Depends how you look at it. See, all magic is derived from souls… or is souls made out of magic? Hmm… either way, the more powerful the soul, the more powerful the magic! A god like me were filled with so many souls we could move mountains!
>Think about it, what is the exact spirit-chemical/neuroscience process required to create a god?
Power! Power is all there is to it. Get enough magic and you’ll become a god! But… the only way to get so much power at once has been used up already a long time ago. There’s nothing left to create new gods.

>We had where that one guy killed all the gods and life in the world in general leaving the planet a barren rock might have been a warning about something some stupid prick is trying to pull off to become a god.
Well, then we better stop him, don’t we?
>Maybe... just one. The hiver nation has a lot of people in it, doesn't it?
Even that isn’t even close to being enough. Consuming a majority of that nation would give you a sixth of the power needed to rival us, at most. No, they’ll need to destroy most of the world to become like us if they are going to brute force it.
>You mean like the fall of the old kingdom?
Hmm… that would have been enough power, wouldn’t it? Hmm… but the others wouldn’t have accepted that, would they?

>...is there something she'd like us to investigate now?
No… and forget about that gay dragon. I’ve got other plans now… easier plans. No need to worry anymore.
>Methinks we need to get you out of your cell, all the loneliness is making you crazy and introverted.
If you find a way to dig me up, be my guest. It’s not very likely, though, as this prison was tailored for a god!
>You're out of ideas for getting sure confirmation Illasia is alive, but maybe Xuv knows of a way to check that is discreet.
Hmm… I don’t have any way to check on her without revealing my hand, sorry… but you simply have to find another way to see if she’s still in power. Now, take care and don’t die to quickly, you hear?
Wait, wha-

-------

-god toughaba?
Tugaba?
Whoa? Did you guys feel that?
I… n-no, I didn’t feel anything…
I… I think something happened?
…I can’t say I can see any difference from since we started, Tim. Even the flowers are still there… wouldn’t they have… I don’t know, disappear or something if it did work?
Yet… I feel drained… like someone sucked me dry…
Oh, I know that feeling… one of the best feelings there are…
…what? No, I meant like… I’m tired, not that someone- wait, how do you even-
Alchemy?
…right. Either way, forget I asked... but yeeeaah… I think I just used up most of my magic powers… and nothing happened? Rats…

So Xuv drained your companions or it takes that much energy to make a five-minute call.

Alright, check in with Belseth, Briannah will want to see him drunk and broken.

right so... that happened.

Well their's really not much to do right at this moment so let's grab everyone here and get some lunch, we can talk to people when we all have food. I feel like we should probably hold off on actually trying to talk about there problems with everyone around but could probably set up a date at a later time to talk to them privately since I'm sure it might piss them off to just blatantly tell everyone else in the group some of there deeper secrets.

>>692989
Tell Tim that something happened alright. (sounds like Xuv had fun with him but didn't let him remember it) Ask him what kind of girls he likes.

Then thank Cain for his time and go talk to Briannah for a bit, in some measure of privacy. Ask what she thought of that. Did she get to talk to Xuv?

If any one were to know if Illasia is alive or dead it would be Death, we need to find the old man now more then ever, he may even have knowledge about if someone tried to become a god through the destruction of the old kingdom.

Tell Tim the God of Love said he was a better sacrifice than flowers. And then she said he should try hitting on mortals instead.

>and nothing happened? Rats…
You can't get high expectations for these kinds of things, Tim.

Well I hope everyone's suitably sick of these rituals, because we probably shouldn't keep doing this inside the palace. or at all.

Kaktus 2016/01/11(Mon)13:55 No. 693075 ID: 65a774
File 145254930064.png - (35.25KB , 686x526 , 17.png )

>Sounds like Xuv had fun with him but didn't let him remember it.
You’re pretty sure he means that Xuv drained him on his magic, not… other substances.
>If any one were to know if Illasia is alive or dead it would be Death, we need to find the old man now more than ever.
But how are you supposed to meet death himself? No one is to be executed anywhere around here, as far as you know and it’s not like you can just book a meeting with him.
>Alright, check in with Belseth, Briannah will want to see him drunk and broken.
Okay, that would just be kind of mean… and you’re pretty sure he’s still asleep right now. Better let him sleep it of a bit longer.

>Well I hope everyone's suitably sick of these rituals, because we probably shouldn't keep doing this inside the palace. or at all.
You’re probably right… I mean, this one was the one I was really interested in anyway… hmm… but still, why did it drain my mana reserve? I have to ponder about this.
>Ask him what kind of girls he likes.
Huh? Why would you- is that about that jab Cain delivered?
Err… well, I’m just curios. I’ve never actually seen you with someone else.
…*sigh*, first off, girls? We’re a mono-gendered species, so this whole girl / boy thing doesn’t really fit. Second… hmm… well it needs to be intelligent… magic cunning… wise and kind… and funny… and it should be beautiful too… you know, like a sunset at the ocean. Oh, and we can’t forget strong willed, independent, creative, loyal, good with children, good with animals, love both of them, love me, good at playing Re-
Okay, okay, I get it… geez… raising the bar a bit much?
Aim for the stars, my egg laying parent always said, and I plan to do so. I know my dream partner is out there somewhere… and I plan to find them!
Uh huh…

>Go talk to Briannah for a bit, in some measure of privacy. Ask what she thought of that. Did she get to talk to Xuv?
Huh? What a-are yah talking about?
Under the prayer, did you see anything?
Of course n-not! That would just be weird!
…are you sure?
Yes!
…then why are yo-
Stop saying I saw a Valkyrie! I didn’t see anything! What? Yah think I’m crazy?
Of course n-
First yah’re telling me I saw things in the garden and now this? Huff, yah’re unbelievable.

>>693075
>Aim for the stars, my egg laying parent always said, and I plan to do so. I know my dream partner is out there somewhere… and I plan to find them!
...Are you free at any point today? Because I want to have a chat with you when you got the time.

>Stop saying I saw a Valkyrie!
What's a valkyrie and does it look like

>First yah’re telling me I saw things in the garden and now this? Huff, yah’re unbelievable.
I didn't say you saw anything in the garden I asked if you saw what I saw.

If you don't want to talk then I won't force you. But I do have to ask, why do you always seem to think I will always think the worse of you? You act like I'm looking for a reason to push you away when I've been trying my hardest to do the opposite of that.

Welcome to my strange world dear. Some days I am convinced that all I do is the day being bothered or bothering spectral entities who refuse to show themselves to anyone else.

>>693075
Tell her that every time you do that ritual, you talk to Xuv. So her seeing someone too wouldn't be unusual... especially since you asked Xuv to talk to her. What does she mean by "Valkyrie" though? What did she see, exactly? Describe Xuv to her- maybe her perception of Xuv was different?

Wow, calm down, And I thought I was the one with paranoia... (especially considering that We barely know anything about what's going on)

She told me she'd speak to you, you know. No need to be so Cagey. And you're terrible at keeping secrets, you're the one who mentioned a Valkyrie. And the fact that you mentioned the garden in the same context means you saw that masked man, too.

>Stop saying I saw a Valkyrie! I didn’t see anything!
Okay, you didn't see anything, got it. Although, I'm curious about what the Sakkilian Valkyries are like?

If Bri has used alchemy in the past for "recreational purposes" that seems like something she may try with you. Not an immediate concern but seems like something she'd do.

Kaktus 2016/01/12(Tue)11:44 No. 693240 ID: 65a774
File 145262785168.png - (28.14KB , 686x526 , 18.png )

>...Are Tim free at any point today?
He did say that his original plans where sunk after that friend of his had to work overtime with the guard, so he should be free today.
>What's a valkyrie and does it look like.
If you remember correctly, they are armor-clad Sakkilian females with wings that supposedly guide their dead to their ancestors. So… they do kind of look like Xuv, don’t they?
>If Bri has used alchemy in the past for "recreational purposes" that seems like something she may try with you.
…great, more things to worry about. Let’s just hope she don’t suddenly spring a surprise on you one day…

>Describe Xuv to her.
…so… Valkyries have four arms?
…wha-
And a snake like body?
How did yah- yah- yah can’t have- no…
>I didn't say you saw anything in the garden I asked if you saw what I saw.
But yah didn’t… I… yah can’t… no… nono… I need… to sit down and drink something.
Bri?
I’m… ‘earing things that’s not… I’m seeing… ‘ave our time together been… because yah can’t… no…

>Why do you always seem to think I will always think the worse of you? You act like I'm looking for a reason to push you away when I've been trying my hardest to do the opposite of that.
Then why do yah ‘ate me so!
I don’t hate you? What are you talking about.
You keep denying me… you keep… but…
Bri? Calm down? You’re hyperventilating… did Xuv tell you something you didn’t want to hear?
Xuv doesn’t- he can’t- no, I’m ‘allucinating again! I need air! I need… I need… I…

>>693240
>I need… I need… I…
You need to breath Bri, you need to calm down and think straight right now. If you want we can find somewhere a little more private (so she doesn't have to worry about people over hearing our conversation). If she's bothered this badly about this then we can at least explain some of our own personal demons to her.

>>693240
Hugs time.

Hallucinating... again? Somehow I don't think she's referencing the garden.

Hold her head so that she's looking at you face to face- and in case she falls. Find her a seat somewhere and get her control her breathing- you picked a few ways how when you were dealing with your night terrors way back when, walk her through them. Tell her she's not hallucinating, she's not crazy. When she's suitably calmed sown, ask her what upset her so much. If she still won't talk, tell her you want to trust her, but she's making it difficult. If she's about to cry, give her a kiss. A good one, put your back into it. Actually, kiss her anyway.

Looks like we have a lot to talk about.

>You’re hyperventilating…
Help her to calm down, first, before talking about other things.
>>693275
Hugs should help, bring her outside, too.

Once she's calmed down,
>You keep denying me…
You may think me an arse for this, but I don't think that just having wanton sex is a sign of love. If I wanted sex, I could just get a consort. I don't want to ruin any chances to have a loving relationship by making it all about sex. Instead, I'm trying to get you to open up, and form a love from things other than that. That's why I've been training with you; even if I'm bad at it, it's something we can do together, and I figure you probably like the idea of me being tougher.
>no, I’m ‘allucinating again!
Bri, did you see these sorts of things before? I mean, your brother I could understand, since he opened right up to the Gods, but from the sounds of it, you don't even like the thought of seeing spirits.
...Did it start happening after that incident, with my brother?

>>693240
Why does Kronos hate you? Well, let's see: you're annoying, belligerent, cannibalistic, disturbing, energetic, fraudulent, gluttonous, haughty, inappropriately jovial, kinky and lustful.

But seriously, you could be a better person if you tried. You present yourself as a be-all end-all of generals, yet you toy with the people closest to you. They think you're doing this voluntarily, they think that you mock and torture them on an hourly basis because you don't actually care about their feelings. If you can just strive to perform more actions that the two of you have common ground on, things will be fine.

>>693333
I concur with those criticisms completely, but in the interest of not getting Kronos' head twisted off like a chicken, he should probably not mention that out loud.

I deny you because I want to be more that someone to share a bed with. I want to be someone you trust, someone you want to open up to. I've tried to be honest with you about everything and I understand you can't do the same for me with everything that's happening but I at least hoped you had started to see that you don't have to hide your flaws and weaknesses from me. Please tell me whats wrong

Kaktus 2016/01/15(Fri)12:23 No. 694119 ID: 65a774
File 145288938356.png - (24.80KB , 686x526 , 19.png )

>Why does Kronos hate you? Well, let's see: you're annoying, belligerent, cannibalistic, disturbing, energetic, fraudulent, gluttonous, haughty, inappropriately jovial, kinky and lustful.
Well… hate is such a strong word… but she does have her flaws… a lot of flaws…
>In the interest of not getting Kronos' head twisted off like a chicken, he should probably not mention that out loud.
You’re pretty sure she won’t do any physical harm to you over a few words… but still…
>we should find somewhere a little more private.
You discreetly get Cain’s attention and make a small hand-gesture to him. He seems to get the idea, as he soon after leads the others to exit Tim’s study to give you and Bri some space for yourself.

>Find her a seat somewhere and get her control her breathing.
As you guide her to s seat, she seems to visible calm down.
>Hugs time.
You embrace her… and she returns the favor. You can feel her breathing calm down nearly completely… though it seems that her heart is still beating like crazy… or is it your own heart?

>I deny you because I want to be more than someone to share a bed with. I want to be someone you trust, someone you want to open up to.
…
>I at least hoped you had started to see that you don't have to hide your flaws and weaknesses from me. Please tell me whats wrong.
I… I guess yah, if anyone, deserve to ‘now. I… ever since I’ve been small, I… I’ve seen things that aren’t there.
Things?
People… objects… creatures of some kind. But I’ve learned to ignore them, as they are so obviously out of place… but… just a moment ago, I thought I heard yah say something impossible and… I think my hallucinations are getting worse…
>Tell her she's not hallucinating, she's not crazy.
…w-what?
You’re not hallucinating. I actually saw Xuv too… and I did talk to that… creature in the garden… made out of text?
…y-yah… actually see them too?
Xuv did kind of give me the ability to and… um… you’ve always been able to see them?
Y-yes… but… I’ve never been able to talk to one like yah did… and… I can’t actually tell what’s worse. To hallucinate or see weird creatures no one else can. I… I don’t know what to make of it.

Kaktus 2016/01/15(Fri)12:23 No. 694120 ID: 65a774
File 145288939282.png - (9.30KB , 686x526 , 20.png )

>Kiss her.
Even though you have no idea how to kiss someone with a snout, you embrace her in a deep kiss and things… just kind of come naturally to you. Now you can definitely feel her heart race… as well as your own heart beating your ribcage like a drum.

What you need to do is to calm down, Bri… and just take some time.
…
Don’t worry, I’ll be here to help you get to terms with this.
I… I’m so sorry…
Sorry?
I’ve… I’ve been such an arse, ‘aven’t I? So… selfish and prideful and… and… and afraid. I’m so sorry…
>You could be a better person if you tried.
…hmpf… yah really think so?
Of course.
…

>I’ve… I’ve been such an arse, ‘aven’t I? So… selfish and prideful and… and… and afraid. I’m so sorry…
heh, well I'm not the easiest person to be around either. I mean my whole family doesn't really trust me and with the few personal problems which I will spare you from unless you want to know about them I can be a pain to be around at times. Hell I usually have a pretty short temper but with all the crap that's been going on lately I really haven't had time to be angry.

But if you want we could go grab some lunch and maybe just talk for a bit. No politic stuff, nothing about the war, or whatever problems are falling into our laps. Let's just talk about ourselves, the things we've always wanted to tell people but where afraid they'd think we're insane if we did just for no other reason then to finally get them off our chest. Sound good or maybe try for another time?

>>694120
Ah, I see it. The change in fate. Or Xuv's lie. Could very well be the latter.

SHE is the Dragon. If Xuv knew that all along, that's why she was pushing you and her together. It would also make more sense- why would the Dragon prophecy be fulfilled by bringing them just any old mate? The Dragon and the Phoenix go together, it just makes more thematic sense. So your brother was supposed to impregnate her. I wonder why he failed? Maybe she didn't want to have kids at the time, and your brother decided to follow a different path of ambition?

If it's just a change in fate that was orchestrated to throw Xuv off, then I assume Xuv has to bless the union to ensure a child. Her not knowing means the prophecy won't come to pass, unless she blesses the pairing for shits and giggles.

OOOOR maybe it's just coincidence that she can see these things. ...maybe you should check on her family tree? The Dragon would have an obscured ancestral origin, wouldn't they? You could check Belseth's too, for comparison. Xuv made it sound like the Dragon would be unique somehow.


So does she want to say what Xuv spoke to her about? Or was it private? Did the Chronicler say anything to her?
Regardless let's do something relaxing.

>>694153
We're still not sure how the Dragon works, and given the senility in all ancients that we've met, suffice to say there's a good chance that none of them know either. The dragon could be "fractured", the Dragon could suddenly lose their powers and stop being the chosen one, there might be a way to create a new dragon with basic rituals and crafting ingedients, etc.

There's too much we don't know to make any formal hypothesis. We just have to prepare for the worstcase scenario and keep finding more intel until we get an understanding of what is going on overall.

Okay, more hugs, no @#$%ing yet.

Maybe once the mood has passed you can check on Belseth?

Kaktus 2016/01/16(Sat)10:25 No. 694362 ID: 65a774
File 145296874470.png - (24.61KB , 686x526 , 21.png )

>SHE is the Dragon.
…that would explain why Xuv were so suddenly interested in talking to her… hmm…
>If Xuv knew that all along, that's why she was pushing you and her together.
You get a feeling that she didn’t think Bri were this special. After all, she’s not exactly… subtle.

>...maybe you should check on her family tree? The Dragon would have an obscured ancestral origin, wouldn't they?
Seeing as she’s Belseth half-sibling… and if this Dragon thing were genetic… wait, wouldn’t that mean they are both Dragon…s?
>We're still not sure how the Dragon works, and given the senility in all ancients that we've met, suffice to say there's a good chance that none of them know either.
Yeah, you definitely need more information before you can be certain. If anything, it’s even possible that this whole Dragon thing is poppycock from the beginning.

>Okay, more hugs, no @#$%ing yet.
Don’t worry; you’re not going to start rushing things with her, not after all this.


>heh, well I'm not the easiest person to be around either.
I guess… but… I don’t actually know about that. I’ve ‘eard so many ‘orror stories about ye… actions, but meeting yah in person, it shows that most of them are exaggerated.
Well… I’ve tried to be a bit more responsible since you got here…
Heh, I would ‘ave ‘nown, most of those stories are just so overblown… like the time yah supposable managed to completely obliterate three of the royal carts in one evening.
Err… actually, that kind-
And how yah managed to break 14 windows in one day.
I was just trying to-
Or ‘ow yah managed to invite over a thousand people of the lower class to the palace without informing anyone in charge.
See, that was just a misunderstanding-
Or how yah broke into the grand temple completely nude and stole the holy wine from their coffers under a sermon.
I wasn’t completely nude… I was wearing underwear…
…yah ‘now, maybe I don’t want to ‘now exactly what yah did when yah were young.
Young? Most of those things happen just over a year ago…

>So does she want to say what Xuv spoke to her about? Or was it private?
Actually, she didn’t really tell me anything. She just sniffed me, said “This is perfect” and then told me that one of my deepest wishes will come true soon enough.
…deepest wishes?
I don’t ‘now? I got a lot of wishes, eh?
>Did the Chronicler say anything to her?
None of them ever spoke to me, I’ve already said that. Not that person made out of words, not those things that come at the seasons change… not even- Actually, one of them did say something to me once. It was when… I got these scars. As I laid there, a person in white came up to me and told me that I was pathetic, that I would do better to just die now and end the suffering.
Wait, man in white?
Sufficient to say, I kept on living just to spite that creep.
>But if you want we could go grab some lunch and maybe just talk for a bit.
That would be nice… yeah…


>Maybe once the mood has passed you can check on Belseth?
Sir? A Mr Belseth wishes to see you.
Huh? He’s already back on his legs and… wait, how did he find me h-
Ah, Kronos, I need to speak to you… and… oh, you.
Brother.
Briannah…
Wait, weren’t you completely smashed just a few hours ago?
I… err… have ways to sober myself up when necessary. Either way, I… I wanted to warn you about… see… I saw this… I mean… um… there are rumors that… you’re in danger.
I’m in danger.
Just… be careful, okay? I don’t want you to get hurt and I saw… just… be careful and keep away from any big heights.
…wait, wha-
Never mind that, I mean- err-

Kaktus 2016/01/16(Sat)10:25 No. 694363 ID: 65a774
File 145296875525.png - (39.49KB , 686x526 , 22.png )

Oh, and sir? A miss Elete also wishes to see you.
Wait... what would a lonely acolyte want with the prince?
I’m just here to deliver a message, actually. The Arch-Bishop wishes to see you later today, my prince.
…how do you people keep finding me!?
Err… I just asked one of the servants…
I just followed this priest.
Are those servants all-knowing or what!?

>>694363
The servants are probably all working for Cain as an information network, just like you considered doing yourself. As such, he likely tells them important things like where he and you are if he/you are needed.

Hmm. I'm guessing that Belseth sees visions of the future. This sortof implies they are both Dragons, yes. Also it seems that the best way to speak to the Old Man would be to have a near-death experience, like Briannah did. ...I wonder if he really meant what he said, or if he said that in the hopes that she would stay alive to spite him, like she did?

Where does the Arch-Bishop want to see you? If it's up on a balcony somewhere maybe we should arrange for a different meeting place. We should definitely meet them, but be sure to bring your bodyguard, and don't walk into any obvious traps.

Your butler is Cain, and you're still in disbelief at servants' omniscience?

Maybe you're seeing possibilities. For example, you went through a scenario where you murdered Briannah and threw her corpse off the balcony. For a power fantasy, that was quite detailed.

Take everyone here and go to the Archbishop. If she is planning something, she'll have to do it while you have an army.

> Are those servants all-knowing or what!?
You know better than to ask that.
>I saw… just… be careful and keep away from any big heights.
Ooh, prophetic visions. Ask him to keep you updated if he hears an more... rumors?

At what time does the archbishop require my presence? This could be the excuse you need to ditch your brother.

>Are those servants all-knowing or what!?
This is why I told you to try and build up a spy network with your own personal servants. Nobody pays attention to them and they're everywhere. They see and hear a lot more then people realize. While they might not be able to tell you the exact plans some general came up with in a war room they could tell you how long he was in the room and if he was happy, pissed, afraid, or whatever when he came out. Hell they might be able to find out the exact plans if they come in to deliver refreshments. Never underestimate the working class young prince.

Anyways, thank both of them for bring these things to your attention and that they can come find you if there is anything else they wish to discuss as they seem to be quite skilled at figuring out where you are.

Then as far as I can see the plan for the rest of the day is to Have lunch with Bri, talk to bodyguard to get her input on the meeting with our brother tonight, go to our father and do something (I'm personally for having our father host the meeting himself in an area with HIS personal guards and servants so we can have a nice long chat with our brother), and then track down Tim and talk to him about his problems while we wait for the meeting to start. This sound good?

I'm sure after a lifetime being surrounded by them you hardly even notice the help. Of course, they're probably trying to stay out of the way, too. Still: you're a prince, and they're all paying attention, even if you aren't.

Good thing you're so generous and they're so fond of you, eh?

If Bri is the Dragon then does that mean we need to find her a highborn husband instead of wife?
Well job done.

>>694393
I think she already found one.

>Are those servants all-knowing or what!?
Nah, they just worship you. Hey, if you do become a god, at least you already have a following!
Seriously though just look at Elete's smile. You've got her charmed without even trying, simply because despite your mishaps, you're a generous soul. People like that about you, and do what they can to keep you safe. Like Belseth telling you to beware tall heights!
Where were you meeting your brother again? And does the High Priest want to come to you, or you to them?

>>694397
>Well job done
I think that was AH's point.

Kaktus 2016/01/17(Sun)08:48 No. 694729 ID: 65a774
File 145304929989.png - (37.04KB , 686x526 , 23.png )

>If Bri is the Dragon then does that mean we need to find her a highborn husband instead of wife?
…well, mission accomplished, I guess?
>I'm guessing that Belseth sees visions of the future. This sort of implies they are both Dragons, yes.
This warning of his did sound odd, yes… but future vision? It would explain how he managed send a warning before my brother attacked, sure, but still?
>Also it seems that the best way to speak to the Old Man would be to have a near-death experience, like Briannah did.
You’re not going to try to flub a suicide just to see if he appears or not.

>I'm sure after a lifetime being surrounded by them you hardly even notice the help. Of course, they're probably trying to stay out of the way, too.
You usually don’t think about it but you’re constantly surrounded by people, aren’t you?
>Good thing you're so generous and they're so fond of you, eh?
…yeah… that’s great…
>The servants are probably all working for Cain as an information network, just like you considered doing yourself.
…which means that… Cain is actually a spy of some kind? Hmm… either way, if he’s on your side, you too can get help from the servants to your own ends.
>Your butler is Cain, and you're still in disbelief at servants' omniscience?
…point.

>Ask him to keep you updated if he hears any more... rumors?
Err… right, of course! I’ll… k-keep an ear out.
>At what time does the archbishop require my presence? This could be the excuse you need to ditch your brother.
Oh… well… actually, she wanted me to ask you what time you should be able to attend. She’ll be busy for the next two hours or so, but the rest of the day would work. So… just give me a time you can see her at…
>Where does the Arch-Bishop want to see you?
I have no idea. She wouldn’t share that with a lonely acolyte like me.
I’m surprised she even sent a lonely acolyte with a message like this.
She literally grabbed me when I passed her, sir. Apparently she knew I’ve met the prince before and… well…
>Thank both of them for bring these things to your attention and that they can come find you if there is anything else they wish to discuss as they seem to be quite skilled at figuring out where you are.
Err… sure… no problem…
I’m sure both me and Belseth are glad to have been of aid, my prince.
…wait, how did you know my name?
You’re the only Sakkilian priest around here, aren’t you? Also, I’m a big fan of your work, sir, I’m really impressed with your reforms made to help the less fortuned.
Err… oh, those… they… err… thank you?

>Then as far as I can see the plan for the rest of the day is to Have lunch with Bri.
I’ll make the preparations, sir… just give me half an hour and meet me in your room.
>Go to our father and do something.
I’m dreadfully sorry, sir, but the king is unavailable for the moment. He’s out and meeting with some people and won’t return until… well, late tonight, I’m afraid.
>Talk to bodyguard to get her input on the meeting with our brother tonight.
It stinks of trap, so don’t walk into it. Instead, find out what he’s planning and spring the trap on him.
Wait… traps? What are you two talking about?
This sound interesting…
Kronos, please… if someone is out to get you, be… just be careful, alright?
Hmm…
Don’t worry, Belseth, I’ll be careful. I promise you that I won’t do anything stupid.
Hmm?
…Briannah, what are you doing?
Oh… I was just thinking… Brother, do yah wish to dine with us two tonight?
W-what? Why would-
We’ve gotten off on the wrong foot, ‘aven’t we? And... well, seeing ‘ow yah and Kronos seem to ‘it it off…
Err… well… see… um…

>Err… oh, those… they… err… thank you?
...I swear, if he turns out to be bi for Varkians and is only just realizing it... Well I'm already laughing but I'd laugh more if it actually happens. And if they're both dragons, that's two phoenixes, right?

>>694729
Reconciliation dinner? Sounds like a good idea, but once you're alone with Briannah again you should tell her, to be clear, you're not into guys.
Maybe also admit to her that you've been getting close to Belseth partially to try and get info on whatever the Archbishop is doing. He's a nice guy though, so you've grown to like him legitimately.

I wonder, could you do the same with Elete, without looking suspicious? I suppose it could be done under the guise of grooming her for sinful group sex with your wife.

You can probably go see the Archbishop after lunch.

>Oh… I was just thinking… Brother, do yah wish to dine with us two tonight?
No Briannah bad, we just talked about this , also hes your half brother,, even if you just sat and watched that's still pretty squick.
but then again you once used alchemy to have a dick so I don't think we can put anything past you.

> find out what he’s planning and spring the trap on him.
Any ideas on how to do that? seriously, I know nothing of espionage or politics.
>This sound interesting…
It is very interesting, so keep your beak shut, got it? This is a very bad time to know too much.

>Oh… I was just thinking… Brother, do yah wish to dine with us two tonight?
I don't know what you're plotting, Bri, but no funny business.

Well, tell the Archbishop I should be available after dinner. Trap successfully evaded.

Reassure Belseth you'd be fine with the idea. I'd agree to it more for their relationship's sake than ours.

>I’m dreadfully sorry, sir, but the king is unavailable for the moment. He’s out and meeting with some people and won’t return until… well, late tonight, I’m afraid.
well damn, I was hoping that with Sisah's help we could convince father to host the meeting himself with his own men and servants around and hopefully have a more civil discussion with less chance of "interruptions".

>Instead, find out what he’s planning and spring the trap on him.
any advice on how to do that?

>Oh… I was just thinking… Brother, do yah wish to dine with us two tonight?
hell might as well bring Elete along as well since she seems like a good candidate to be a potential friend fro Belseth so he doesn't have to always depend on you for company and them dining together might give her a chance to learn more about him.

Oh and don't forget to have cain bring something for Sisah as well since she's stuck to us like glue and not to hesitate if he wants to grab something for himself as well. He doesn't have to eat with us if he doesn't wish to but I don't see the harm in having the cooks make a little extra side dish or two. I mean we still owe him that bottle of wine.

>>694811
This. Briannah is making an effort to extend an olive branch. Clearly she's taken what we said to heart about being a better person if she tried.

Bring Elete and Belseth to dinner, see how it pans out. Also, grab a poison checker.

Kaktus 2016/01/19(Tue)10:33 No. 695437 ID: 65a774
File 145322840043.png - (41.81KB , 686x526 , 24.png )

>Well, tell the Archbishop I should be available after dinner.
>You can probably go see the Archbishop after lunch.
Hmm… on one hand, seeing the Archbishop after dinner would be an excellent excuse to skip the meeting with your brother… on the other hand, you have a feeling that if he’s actually up to something he won’t let that stop him.

>If they're both dragons, that's two phoenixes, right?
…You’re not even sure these dragons or phoenixes are connected… or actually exist. For all you know they might just be Xuv’s insane ramblings.
>Also, grab a poison checker.
You already got someone who checks for poison in all your food. No need for another.

>No Briannah bad, we just talked about this , also he’s your half-brother, even if you just sat and watched that's still pretty squick.
…you’re pretty sure not even Briannah would… okay, she might, but she still doesn’t really like Belseth, so she wouldn’t use him for whatever incest fantasies she got.
>Briannah is making an effort to extend an olive branch. Clearly she's taken what we said to heart about being a better person if she tried.
Hopefully…


>Reassure Belseth you'd be fine with the idea.
Um… still… I mean… I’m… busy tonight?
Then ‘ow about lunch?
Err… well…
You were drinking like crazy just a few hours ago… I’m pretty sure you don’t have anything planned for lunch, do you?
Um… no… I guess I can have lunch with you two?
>Hell might as well bring Elete along as well since she seems like a good candidate to be a potential friend for Belseth.
W-wait, me?
Why not?
It’s just… y-you’re the prince and princess and… I’m just a… um… low ranking member of the church…
Ah, the more the merrier?
Well, If you want me to…

>It is very interesting, so keep your beak shut, got it? This is a very bad time to know too much.
I cross my heart and hope to die.
>Oh and don't forget to have cain bring something for Sisah as well since she's stuck to us like glue.
I’ll see if I can get you some soup, ma’am…
>and not to hesitate if he wants to grab something for himself as well.
Do not worry, sir, I’ll see to it that I’m properly fed. Now, give me half an hour.
I’ll catch up with you three then, as I need to… clean up a bit.

…

>Once you're alone with Briannah again you should tell her, to be clear, you're not into guys.
…why are yah bringing that up now of all times?
Because I just wanted to make sure-
Is it Belseth? ‘e does seem to like yah a lot…
Bri, I’m telling you, I’m not-
Yet, ‘ere yah are obsessing over it, eh? Maybe yah need some soul searching just as much as I do.
*sigh* Bri…
But, yes, I do understand what yah’re saying. Don’t yah worry.
>Any ideas on how to do that? seriously, I know nothing of espionage or politics.
The only idea I got so far is to gather some of the guards yourself and arrive with them a bit early. If you’re lucky you might get there while they are setting something up.
What we need is more information. We should talk to Cain… or maybe one of the guards ye brother ‘ave requested? But we can discuss that after lunch.

…

The lunch itself goes surprisingly well, as both Belseth and Bri seems to do their best from stepping on each other’s nerves… at least, it went well until Elete started asking Belseth about the things he’s supposedly done for the country. You knew he liked to hear himself talk but geez…

-Started out with smaller things, as I, personally, tried to change the-

…

-clearly, not everyone can be as magnificent as me, so I simply need to help those less fortuned then-

…

-and I thought, who better than me?
So, you-
So of course I took the first caravan out there to help them in their hour of-

…

-convincing them to at least try and see this project to an end.
Err… Bel-
But as they aren’t as competent as we, I was forced to-


…you can feel Bri’s patience slowly draining away, giving way for a wave of… other emotions.

'Accidentally' spill your drink all over the table.

Point out to Belseth he's got something on his shirt, then flick his snout when he looks down. A classic.

Force Belseth and Elete to "Kiss and Make Up".

With your hands. In their mouths.

And some steak sauce.

how does Elete look? Like she's enjoying this or like she wants to escape? Because if she looks fine I suggest taking Bri away for a moment saying you want to have a word with her. If Elete is suffering though I guess you could always take one of your guns and just shoot it at something not very important to get his attention. Probably should save that though as a last resort.

> You knew he liked to hear himself talk but geez…
He struck me as more reserved than that.

Ask Belseth about his ideas on the strategic situation. He's less informed in that area, he'll have less to talk about there.

Poke him in the ribs and tell him to shush for a few minutes.

Is he going on and on like this because he's in front of Briannah?

Kaktus 2016/01/20(Wed)10:06 No. 695863 ID: 65a774
File 145331319917.png - (72.52KB , 686x526 , 25.png )

>He struck me as more reserved than that.
While he seemed more reserved most of the time you spent with him, he did go on a rather long spiel when you were playing Regicide against him. It’s possible that he tries to keep himself in check around you most of the time.
>Is he going on and on like this because he's in front of Briannah?
It’s possible it’s to annoy her, sure… but it seems more likely that he just… is like this at times.

>'Accidentally' spill your drink all over the table.
And let such a fine wine go to waste? Why, I never!
>How does Elete look? Like she's enjoying this or like she wants to escape?
She’s… actually rather engaged in his conversation. If she’s annoyed with him, she’s not showing it.
>Force Belseth and Elete to "Kiss and Make Up".
…wait, why? Belseth and Elete barely know each other… and they aren’t mad at each other either. If anything, you should try to make Belseth and Bri kiss and make up… without the kissing part, that is.

>Ask Belseth about his ideas on the strategic situation. He's less informed in that area, he'll have less to talk about there.
Hey, Belseth, might-
-making sure there were enough food for all the refugees that-
…
>Point out to Belseth he's got something on his shirt, then flick his snout when he looks down. A classic.
You have-
:BelsethsSB: -enough medical su-
*Flick*
H-hey, why did y-you just- eh, never mind, where was I? Oh, right. As I was saying, we had just enough medical supplies to-
…you got to be kidding me…
>I suggest taking Bri away for a moment saying you want to have a word with her.
Err… excuse me and-
-which is the curse of being me, really-
-Bri for a moment?
-we of greater stature are, after all, have a duty to help those that are not as-
Let’s just go, Kronos.
Is he usually like this?
If you get him to talk about his ego, he’ll never stop, no.
To be fair, most of what he was telling us was true… as far as I know…
Huh? Elete? What are you doing here? How did you managed to make Belseth stop talking about himself?
I still need to know when you’re going to see the Arch-Bishop… and, um, actually, Belseth didn’t seem to even notice me leaving.
-which is child’s play for someone like me, really-
Whoa, he really didn’t… wait, how long will he keep talking to himself?
A few second at most…
-because, after all, I am very great, am I not… hey, wait… where did everyone go!?
Oh…
Awkward…

that guy really needs to learn the difference between a conversation and a speech. But yeah, the arch bishop, any clue what they want to talk about there? I mean I've never really been a very active person at the church so I'm kinda curious why the arch bishop wants to see me off all people. If it's important I guess I can try tonight, but no promises.

Let's try for using the meeting as an excuse to not meet with your brother. If he presses the issue then that puts you in a better position because then he'll be out of his home turf, so to speak.

You could try restarting the conversation, keeping it away from things Belseth can brag about.

Kaktus 2016/01/21(Thu)14:22 No. 696219 ID: 65a774
File 145341494514.png - (55.78KB , 686x526 , 26.png )

>Let's try for using the meeting as an excuse to not meet with your brother.
You guess that’s one way to avoid a trap…
>If he presses the issue then that puts you in a better position because then he'll be out of his home turf, so to speak.
Unless he just invites you over tomorrow night again… at least it will buy you some time.

>But yeah, the arch bishop, any clue what they want to talk about there?
I already said I have no idea… so… when do you…?
At eight, if that’s fine.
At eight? Really?
I’ll tell him eight, then.
H-hey, what are you three talking about!?
>You could try restarting the conversation, keeping it away from things Belseth can brag about.
Well, we-
This is just some nice hospitality you’re showing off, Prince.
Huh?
Here I am, spilling my heart out for you and this is how you repay me? Hmpf.
Oh, I’m-
I have more important things to do then being ignored by you three. So, thank you for the lunch and good day.
Wait, I-
Oh, and I need to be going and report this to the bishop. Be seeing you, my prince.
Bu-
That reminds me, I got a meeting in twenty I need to prepare for. See yah later, ‘ubby.
-not finished yet… welp… seems like I’m all alone again…
I’m still here…
You don’t count.

It seems like you suddenly have a lot of time on your hands… but you still have things to attend to. You still need to figure out a way to contact this “man in white” and ask him about the gods… as well as just finding out more about the gods. Then there’s the deal with Bri… and Tim… and Cain, you need to figure out what he’s so secretive about… and Sisah too… Xuv did say she isn’t protecting me because of money, but because she’s seeking redemption for somethi-

Kaktus 2016/01/21(Thu)14:22 No. 696220 ID: 65a774
File 145341495323.png - (60.23KB , 686x526 , 27.png )

HEY!
VARK!!
I just came up with the perfect name on the book I’m writing about you!
Huh? Wha-?
“The Prince and the new God”! So, what do you think, eh? Eh?
Err…
Sir? Is something wrong?

>>696220
THAT NAME SUCKS, PICK ANOTHER.

So, who's the MIW?

>>696220
Tell Sisah you're gonna talk to an invisible person for a bit. If she wants she can try to use her tech to try to detect them. Him? I'm just going to use male pronouns for the history-person.

Ask the guy how you can contact the Man in White without nearly killing yourself in the process.
Or how to contact his cousin, who I presume is some kind of future-telling thing.
You can also ask if the afterlife still exists, if Illasia is dead or mortal, and if both Briannah and Belseth are Dragons.
You should also ask, specifically by name, what condition the elemental gods are in.

I don't suppose he can elaborate on Xuv's goals?

You don't just pop up behind people and start spouting demented nonsense. Especially when the only person who can sense you has company. Anyway, give us a plot synopsis.

>>696222

>I'm still here.
>You don't count.

Okay Prince MacDouchebag, I know you probably meant that as a joke or didn't realize what you said, but apologize. A gentleman doesn't speak to a lady that way.

Well, now that you are pretty much alone alone... Going into the chapel partially naked and stealing the Holy wine? There is bound to be an interesting story behind of that.

What about "the Born of a god" or something similar, To give the lector more suspense and mystery? Although that name may have been used already... hmmm.... "the Prince's freakouts"?

>>696308
The Prince of Vark.

> Sir? Is something wrong?
Do you happen to see anyone around here by chance? Anyways could you give me a moment to myself I want a moment to think about some things, I'll remember to come and get you when I'm ready to leave this time, I swear.

and once she's out of ear shot
>The Prince and the new God”! So, what do you think, eh? Eh?
Well it depends on what the subject is, I mean a book called "the trials of the crown" would be a good title for a book about a prince trying to win the crown from his brothers but would probably be a horrible title for a book about a fishermen who get's lost out at sea after a storm. But if I had to guess the book is about my meeting with the arch bishop tonight... and apparently I'm going to be meeting this 7th or 8th god depending on who you ask. If that is the case I would suggest something maybe a little less on the nose but then again you are history so it probably helps to be a little more to the point. Now if you don't mind me ask is that all you wanted or is there another reason you almost gave me a heart attack?

Kaktus 2016/01/22(Fri)09:22 No. 696423 ID: 65a774
File 145348334168.png - (46.60KB , 686x526 , 28.png )

WHAT IN THE NAME OF THE FIVE!? YOU CAN’T JUST FREAKING POP UP OUT OF NOWHERE AND SCARE THE SHIT OUT OF ME LIKE THAT!!
Oh… um… sor-
Do you even think before you do something like that, you idiot!?
Well, I th-
And that name of your sucks balls!
You really think so?
…no, not- I mean yes- I mean… sorry for that… I...
Do not worry, I’m used at getting yelled on a lot. But the name…?
It needs work.

>Okay Prince MacDouchebag, I know you probably meant that as a joke or didn't realize what you said, but apologize. A gentleman doesn't speak to a lady that way.
I understand that you’re under a lot of stress, sir, but the gesture is appreciated. Now, mind telling me what that outburst was about?
>Tell Sisah you're gonna talk to an invisible person for a bit.
…right…
>If she wants she can try to use her tech to try to detect them.
I’ve already tried, sir… but I do believe whatever you’re seeing is because of old trauma and nothing else. Please, do not try to do anything that pretend friend of yours say, especially if it’s something dangerous.

>Anyway, give us a plot synopsis.
Hey! I can’t just give away the story, can I? Besides, I don’t know how everything will play out yet. My siblings are still working on that, after all.
>Ask the guy how you can contact the Man in White without nearly killing yourself in the process.
You haven’t met him yet? Weird, last time I saw him he was following you around, staring angrily at you.
…wait, he’s angry with me?
Oh, don’t worry, that grumpy, old man is angry about most things. I’m sure he won’t rip your soul out of existence or anything…
Err…
You know, probably… it wouldn’t be the first time… geez, the things he did with the last few who angered him…

>Or how to contact his cousin, who I presume is some kind of future-telling thing.
You mean my siblings? Good luck with that, as those two never speak with mortals. After all, one of them are busy making sure everything is while the other only exist before you even do. Besides, they are both busy, one dreaming of the world to come and the other with creating it.
>You can also ask if the afterlife still exists, if Illasia is dead or mortal, and if both Briannah and Belseth are Dragons.
I’ve already told you, I can’t reveal all the details and plot twists of this story. I mean, where would the fun be in that?
>You should also ask, specifically by name, what condition the elemental gods are in.
Hasn’t someone already told you in what condition they are in? Geez, you should learn how to listen.
>I don't suppose he can elaborate on Xuv's goals?
I’m pretty sure she was rather clear on that one. She wants to become what she used to be and create the empire that used to exist. She’s not a liar, you know… in fact, she’s never told you a single lie so far…

>The Prince of Vark.
There’s been a dozen princes of the Varkian people…
>"the Prince's freakouts"
That sounds more like a comedy then… whatever this is.
>"the Born of a god"
You mean birth? Hmm… maybe? Though it is a bit… never mind.
>Now if you don't mind me ask is that all you wanted or is there another reason you almost gave me a heart attack?
Oh, I just wanted to say hello, really. The people that are willing to talk to me are few and far between… especially mortals, so I got to grab the opportunity when it presents itself.
What’s so special about us mortals?
As you don’t exist outside time, you haven’t heard all the stories I have to tell! I got millions… no, billions… no… an unfathomable amount of stories to tell… if you’re willing to listen, of course. Do you want to hear one? I mean, you can just tell me what kind of story you want to hear and I’ll tell you one… if you have time, that is. Do you? DO YOU!?
Err…
I love telling stories~

Sure, can only gain information here.might even be useful

Ask if he's got a story about phoenixes or dragons. Be useful to learn about those, even indirectly.

>Geez, you should learn how to listen.
I am listening, but nobody talks any damn sense!

>I love telling stories~
I can tell, by how much you're holding back and not telling me anything about your new book. Y'know if you won't say anything, I can go and do something else like apologize to Belseth or snoop on my brother.

Chances are you'll just get more pseudo-prophetic word salad. Threatening to pack up your toys and leave is a bet we can afford to lose.

>>696423
Oh, this could be cool! Ask Sisah if she has a pen and paper handy. Write down the story!

Or just relate it to her afterwards.

well a little late but give a quick look around to see if there are any doves around. If not then ask him why he doesn't hang out with Xuv more often? I mean what with her being stuck underground and having no idea what's happening up here other then a few snippets I feel she'd love to hear your stories of what's happened since she's been gone. Plus I feel like it would do her good to have some company every now and then.

As for a title, how about "A meeting with the sixth"? Leaves it a little vague while still telling you what the story is about. Speaking of stories I would like to hear one yes, I'd like to hear about how Sisah saved a young Vark prince from a Sakkilian ambush. I can't seem to remember that story and think it might do me some good to hear a refresher.

The Pawn and the new God

Title: FATASS

Subtitle: And 999 other things you should not say while summoning a goddess

Author: By the dumbest prat in history.

Superimpose a picture of Kronos with a look of insanity while Briannah's ass is positioned right above his head.

Okay tell us a random story. Can we rename it?

Kaktus 2016/01/23(Sat)05:48 No. 696600 ID: 65a774
File 145355693052.png - (22.64KB , 686x526 , 29.png )

>I am listening, but nobody talks any damn sense!
Hmm… between drunken prophets and mad gods, I can see your point.
>I can tell, by how much you're holding back and not telling me anything about your new book.
I’m sorry, but I can’t reveal anything about a work that you’re part off. It’s my professional obligation to keep such things from changing my siblings work too much.
>Ask Sisah if she has a pen and paper handy. Write down the story!
My apologizes, sir…
Oh, well… I guess I can just try to remember them then.

>As for a title, how about "A meeting with the sixth"?
Hmm… while interesting, it’s not really the core aspect of the book, is it?
>The Pawn and the new God?
How about “The King / Emperor of the new God”? I mean, you’re a bit hard on yourself there. Most people still see you as a pawn to be used, sure, but in the end, you’re probably the one who will change the course of fate the most. Be a bit more positive, my friend!
>Title: FATASS, Subtitle: And 999 other things you should not say while summoning a goddess.
While funny, I don’t think my publisher would accept that.


>I'd like to hear about how Sisah saved a young Vark prince from a Sakkilian ambush.
As I said, I can’t tell you a story you’re in.
…then how about a story about a mercenary that has made a huge mistake in the past and is seeking redemption for it?
Hmmm… Oh, I think I know of a story you would like…

There were once three younglings, living in a peaceful little village, where food was plentiful and dangers few. Even though they had everything they needed, they craved more, they craved something this land should not give them. The three younglings craved renown, respect and fame, they craved immortality in the memory of their peers. But in their peaceful town nothing exiting ever happen, as there was no monster to slay, no royalty to rescue nor any treasure to find. What should they do? Why, suddenly, the youngest of them got an idea, why wouldn’t they make their own fame? If they created the danger themselves, wouldn’t it be easy to thwart it?

I think I see where this is going…

In their village, an old mage lived. Once he was a mighty wizard, but now he did nothing but cantrips to entertain. The young once sneaked into his study when he was away, trying to find something dangerous they should use. The youngest, once again, found a dusty old tome of creature summoning, and they all decided that it would be perfect. After all, a monster they should control themselves would be the perfect adversary, wouldn’t it? In the end, no one knows what exactly happened that night, as in the morning, only the youngest returned. Bloody and broken, the youngest refused to say what had happened, but they only had themselves to blame for the disappearance of the other in the end.

>Ask if he's got a story about phoenixes or dragons. Be useful to learn about those, even indirectly.
A story about dragons? Very well…

In the days of legends, in the old days of yore,
a world of Dragons and phoenixes, mighty they soar.
One born of fire, their heat engulfed their feathery form,
the other made of ice, birthed from the storm.

Differences breeds hatred and soon blood was spilt,
as fires was extinguished and ice broken without guilt.
A war the very heavens had designed,
in the scroll of fate it had already been signed.

Two species, where’s differences were vast,
destined to face extinctions to the last.
They only created destruction and death,
as their war ran out of breath.

A brood mother, a mighty dragon of the finest ice,
and a yellow flamed phoenix, weak but skilled and precise.
They met on the battle field, their eyes met in a glare,
but they did not see hatred, in their eyes there were only despair.

“No” screamed the dragon, “I will not be bound to this fate!”,
as she shock the very chains of fate from her back, lifting a tremendous weight.
The heavens saw this as the most foul kind of crimes,
they struck her down, making her stay in the world short on time.

“Kill her”, they commanded the phoenix, whose flames started to ebb,
“No”, said the phoenix, “I will choose my own path through the web!”.
The heavens once again struck, the avian flames were undone,
“Might the cold consume you as punishment for what you’ve done”.

The wounded dragon, even as dying, protected the avian from the cold,
and the avian, on the brink, bound as best it should the wounds of the bold.
Together they would survive, they would make their own path,
and together they would make the heavens feel their wrath.

“Only as one, despite our differences, can we overcome the injustice and free ourselves.”

So, what do you think?
…I’m not sure that helped or not…

I'm not sure we should let Sisah know that we have part of her story. So few details isn't really proof of the supernatural and what few there are seem like they would only hurt her.
See if he can shed any light on your brothers betrayal

Even if it helps or not, it was nice of him to share some of his stories, Thank him.

Also, maybe you should tell him about Bri being able to see him, even if he probably knows it.

>…I’m not sure that helped or not…
and it struk surprising close to home except you prefer ice to fire and the only time I've ever seen Bri fight she just liked smashing things.

Anyways thank him for his stories and that you're sure he'll find a good title. Then let sisah know we're done being crazy for now and that we'd like her help coming up with a plan to find out what our brother has planed for us so we can stop it. Cause short of her scanning his room from outside in the gardens to see if it's empty then keeping watch while we sneak in and see what we can find I haven't got a clue on how to approach this.

>>696600
Why does this tale seem so familiar? Perhaps the politically-chosen species are incorrect...

How about a story about the southern Hivers?

>“Only as one, despite our differences, can we overcome the injustice and free ourselves.”
So that's why the dragons and phoenixes are the ones to break fate, fate itself was written in their favor after those two fought it. Ifocen and whoever the God of Water is either weren't the gods at the time, or were convinced by the union of phoenix and dragon that they were wrong. My guess would be that this was before the rise of the six, though.

>>696612
Oh, yeah. Let's ask about Hivers and humans while we're at it.

Kaktus 2016/01/24(Sun)07:14 No. 696788 ID: 65a774
File 145364848790.png - (60.37KB , 686x526 , 30.png )

>I'm not sure we should let Sisah know that we have part of her story.
You’re not even sure how you should interpret that story. At best, she did a mistake that resulted in someone getting hurt… at worst, she might be the reason you don’t have a… a…

>Even if it helps or not, it was nice of him to share some of his stories, thank him.
Oh, don’t mention it. Stories are meant to be shared, after all.
>Also, maybe you should tell him about Bri being able to see him, even if he probably knows it.
Really? Hmm… she does have the blood of the cold wind in her veins, just as you have the blood of endless fire, doesn’t she? I should go talk to her when she has the time… she might want to hear a story or two too!

>See if he can shed any light on your brother’s betrayal.
Another story? Hmm… the day is getting late… so you’ll have to be content with one or two small stories for now. Let’s see… your brother… *Cough*

In the empire of old, among the pillars of the sky, there were a great Hiver warlord, a creature feared by most and revered by many. In her pride, she proclaimed herself lord of all there is, and went to war with the nation she once served. Incapable to see her own mistakes, she marched right into the capital of the land, certain that she would win any battle that came. Just like that, the great warlord was no more, as her own arrogance had been her downfall, but… her pride would not let her admit defeat. She refused to believe her own death, and again she attacked and was struck down. Even as her limbs were severed, she proclaimed herself invincible. Even as they burned her body, she proclaimed herself immortal. Even as her ashes was scattered among the pillars, she proclaimed herself the leader of all there is under the sky.
Even today, if you listen to the winds between the mountains, you can hear her screams of godhood, as she refuse to accept that she have lost.

>Let's ask about Hivers and humans while we're at it.
A precious gift, life is. A gift given only once and as such so very easily lost.
Most do their best to use the gift as best they can, while other throws it away.
But there is some, in their fear to lose this gift, is willing to sacrifice all.
Tear off the flesh, Rip out the organs, Sunder the very soul.
The endless undeath they seek, so they can forever bear the gift,
but in the end, they are all visited by the old man, one by one.

They war, they fight, they die,
as the very land screams for blood.
So many have died to feed its bloodlust,
so many have lost their lives to its hunger.
But one question remains,
how do you feed that which does not exist?

Now, as fun it is to share stories, you don’t have time to dwindle on me anymore, Kronos. Goodbye for now.
Bye and thank you for your time.

>Then let sisah know we're done being crazy for now
As fun as it is too see you making an ass out of yourself, it was starting to get worrying… um… “sir”.
>and that we'd like her help coming up with a plan to find out what our brother has planned for us so we can stop it.
So far, what we know is that he’s gathering guards to arrest a murderer of pleasure people at the exact same time as he’s meeting with you… at least, we think that’s he’s doing.
Which, if true, means he want to arrest me for it.
Which means he need to catch you “murdering” a servant of relief. As most of the guards won’t probably be completely loyal to him, he’ll need to stage it somehow… which means he needs to murder someone and plant evidence that you did it. So… how does he get a victim? Just snatch one up from the street?
And smuggle them into the palace? No… it would be easier to just pay one to enter.
Which leaves paperwork, doesn’t it? As I see it, we have a few different ways to approach this. We can try and find if he’s trying to get a servant of relief into the palace, try to get the guards on our side or just try to catch him in the act.

Have Cain attempt to reason with the guards. Kronos might have a bad impression on them.

Doxan and Sisah, infiltrate.

Elete and Kronos, find the whore.

>As fun as it is too see you making an ass out of yourself, it was starting to get worrying… um… “sir”.
sorry to have worried you sisah, I guess I have a very active imagination. If you want, let's just blame it on the stress from current events and move on.

>We can try and find if he’s trying to get a servant of relief into the palace,
Well Kronos, you've had a few servants of relief in your bed back in the day, if you ever wanted to sneak one in how'd you do it?

>try to get the guards on our side
...Any idea how the guards feel about you? I mean this might be our best bet since you are a smooth talker when the need for words arises.

>or just try to catch him in the act.
Most risk but most reward. Think we should save this as a last resort, If we can catch him in the act unless he's bought the loyalty of the whole castle their'd be no way in hell he'd be able to weasel his way out but at the same time we have to hit him at the EXACT right moment. To soon and we risk scaring him off, to late and he might be able to still frame us for the deed.

I say we try to find some paper work (he's a bloody merchant, they always keep everything on the books) but also try to make friends with the guards as well since we're probably going to be running around the castle anyways.

>>696788
uh also I think I see someone between the two trees behind you two.

Kaktus 2016/01/25(Mon)11:13 No. 696957 ID: 65a774
File 145374919597.png - (70.18KB , 686x526 , 31.png )

>uh also I think I see someone between the two trees behind you two.
… …you definitely saw a white clad figure glaring at you before it retreated into the trees again… are you being watched?
>Well Kronos, you've had a few servants of relief in your bed back in the day, if you ever wanted to sneak one in how'd you do it?
You usually ask Cain to deal with all the paperwork and payment for those…
>...Any idea how the guards feel about you?
…you have no idea? You usually don’t interact with them but… you usually give them a bit of a bonus as well as all the benefits the other servants gets… at least, those that guard the areas you “own”.
>Elete and Kronos, find the whore.
You’re pretty sure Elete, being a priest, would object to being forced to track down a… well…

>Sorry to have worried you sisah, I guess I have a very active imagination.
Yeah… how about you stop acting crazy before you get hurt, alright?
>Doxan and Sisah, infiltrate.
I’m not leaving your side, sir… and I can’t really speak for Doxan.
Oh, right, I need to find Bri again if I want to use Doxan for anything… where did she go?
Don’t ask me.

>I say we try to find some paper work.
…and where is this paper work?
I think it’s probably going to be stored in the archive… or in his office… dammit, Cain would know this.
Then ask him?
So, I need to find Cain too, th-
Some tea, sir?
VARK!!
W-wait!? By the tide, where did you come from!?
The kitchen, ma’am?

Wow, he can even sneak up on the cyborg mercenary. This man is either very talented, or you're very distracting.

>W-wait!? By the tide, where did you come from!?
yeah that's Cain for you, half the time I'm convinced he's a wizard or something.

Anyways thank you for the tea Cain, but I don't remember asking for it. But since you're hear Mind if I ask you a few questions about that rumor you heard about my brother claiming to have that murder that's been running around caught by the end of the night? Now hypothetically speaking, If I believed this to be an attempt by my brother to frame me he'd have to send for escort to play the part of the victim and to make sure it didn't seem suspicious he'd likely go through all the legal channels and have paperwork dealing with the hiring of said escort. Now if you were to guess where my brother would keep such paperwork so if he was trying to frame me I'd have proof that of my innocence where would you say he'd hide it?

Kaktus 2016/01/26(Tue)11:04 No. 697339 ID: 65a774
File 145383507801.png - (47.72KB , 686x526 , 32.png )

>Wow, he can even sneak up on the cyborg mercenary. This man is either very talented, or you're very distracting.
He’s always been good at just appearing out of thin air… you have to wonder, with what you’ve recently heard about him, is he trained to do so? Is he some kind of super spy or something? Hmm…

>Yeah that's Cain for you, half the time I'm convinced he's a wizard or something.
He walked right up to us without me noticing him! How is that even possible?
You were distracted, ma’am, and simply didn’t see me walking up to you.
What?
I saw you ogling the young sir here like he you were a starving wolf watching a newly cut piece of bloody meat.
...
Oh, my apologies, I meant like a… um… starving fish watching… a… can of soup? Okay, this metaphor doesn’t work really well for Serpens.
For your information, I would like to believe I’ve got more experience then to let myself be distracted by a cute boy, no matter how good looking he is.
Yet, you did not see me coming?
… …I will figure out your tricks, servant, mark my words.

>Anyways thank you for the tea Cain, but I don't remember asking for it.
You usually want a cup of tea after lunch, sir, so I simply assumed you might be in the mood for one. I brought a cup for your lady to be too, but sadly, it seems like I missed her. You wouldn’t care for a cup, ma’am, would you?
…I can try a cup, sure…
>Paperwork.
Paperwork?
Well, see… you know these rumors of my brother…
…
-ow where my brother would keep those papers so we should use them to… well, catch him red handed?
Hmm… I can’t say where he would hide something like that…
Oh… well, thank y-
But, speaking of hiring a pleasant evening, I was notified about something peculiar just half an hour ago. I got word from a few friends down at the… seamstress guild that you apparently hired a bit of fun for tonight… just before eight, to be exact.
…wait, I’ve done what?
It’s supposedly to be all hush hush, which is what tipped my friends off that something was wrong. After all, you’ve never cared what people thought about your needs before… and I don’t think you would have the courage to sleep around behind your lady to be… of course, if you asked her she would probably be thrilled to watch y-
Thank you, Cain.
There we have it. He’s even hired her in your “name”. Your brother is clearly up to something!
If so, I don’t believe there would be any paperwork for this transition, as it was completely under the table. My apologies, sir.

OK that masked guy isn't even trying to hide anymore.

>For your information, I would like to believe I’ve got more experience then to let myself be distracted by a cute boy, no matter how good looking he is.
wait, I'm what?

>If so, I don’t believe there would be any paperwork for this transition, as it was completely under the table. My apologies, sir.
So could we contact the "seamstress guild" and tell them we just found out about this "prank" and didn't hire anyone and to cancel the order?

Might be about time to ask Cain if there's anything else we should know. Maybe something like what he's been hiding or fibbing about. Make sure we emphasize that he is our best friend and that we trust his judgement but we would like to be in the loop about any plans he has.

If we cancel the visit from the seamstress' guild, we won't be any closer to proving our brother guilty, but we'll have hopefully prevented a murder. That is, if our mystery prank caller cannot find another target. Cain should warn the serving girls to be a little extra careful during the night shift; we wouldn't want any stains in the castle hallways, would we?

>I’ve got more experience then to let myself be distracted by a cute boy
UHHH???
>There we have it. He’s even hired her in your “name”. Your brother is clearly up to something!
While not necessarily his doing, it's definitely the likely case. I don't want to let harm befall her if that is the case; do you know anything else, like a visual description of the location?

Crap. Even if we don't show up at the meeting, our name's involved. We could get in trouble either way...

Looks like we'll need to end this with plausible deniability. Move away the flower boxes from outside his room so he can't run away, get some guards outside the room before your brother tries anything. If you're not personally involved- which you shouldn't be because of your status, anyway- you can feign ignorance longer.

Tell Sisah to pull her hand out of her pants.

You don't do that out in the open

>>697384
she's drinking tea... while death is watching

Kaktus 2016/01/26(Tue)14:21 No. 697411 ID: 65a774
File 145384689631.png - (50.68KB , 686x526 , 33.png )

>Tell Sisah to pull her hand out of her pants.
At a quick glance it almost looks like she’s doing something… indecent, but on closer inspections she’s just drinking her tea… with her finger… Serpents are weird…
>Move away the flower boxes from outside his room so he can't run away.
He doesn’t have flower boxes outside his window; he got a flower bed… which is kind of hard to move. Of course, even if you should move it, there’s still several meters between the ground and his window before he reach the flowers anyway, which means he has a way to climb down the wall… somehow.
>Get some guards outside the room before your brother tries anything.
…you can’t really try to arrest him before he does something… can you?

>Wait, I'm what?
Most of the servant girls looks rather dreamingly at you and giggle whenever you pass by, so I assume you’re attractive, sir.
And your personal opinion, ma’am?
It would be unprofessional to state it, servant… um, it would be by Risavia standards, wouldn’t it?
In a sense.
Then I won’t state my opinion.
>So could we contact the "seamstress guild" and tell them we just found out about this "prank" and didn't hire anyone and to cancel the order?
But wouldn’t he just find another target? Like… a servant, perhaps?

>Looks like we'll need to end this with plausible deniability.
Oh, don’t worry. I’ll make sure your identity won’t be on that girls list of names.
>Cain should warn the serving girls to be a little extra careful during the night shift; we wouldn't want any stains in the castle hallways, would we?
Well… actually, thinking about it… maybe you can ask your wife to be if she got a… replacement girl for the guild to borrow?
…ah, you mean like an assassin on our own?
What? I do hope you mean someone that can protect themselves and not someone who’s going to murder my brother.
Well, yes, of course.
>Might be about time to ask Cain if there's anything else we should know.
I don’t know what you’re talking about, sir. Have I ever been anything but of service to you?

>OK that masked guy isn't even trying to hide anymore.
…okay, this is starting to get creepy. Every time you look away, he just gets closer and closer… then he just “stares” at you… you’re starting to get afraid to look away now.
What? Do I have something on my face?

You mean aside from the obvious?

>>697339
No paperwork? That means we have to catch him doing it. Also, the fact that it's scheduled for right before your meeting with the Archbisop makes me wonder if they're working together, and the meeting was just an excuse to manipulate your schedule. We can either find some loyal guards and set them up to spring the trap before you're in the vicinity, or try to find the girl before she's killed and keep tabs on her, then catch Kronos' brother attempting to kill her. Save her life so that there's no crime but attempted murder, and the girl will vouch for you, on top of any witnesses you can arrange.

I say do the latter. Find the girl!

>>697411
>plausible deniability.
No, we can't do that! Then your brother will just try again! We have to put him away before he ruins the alliance and your life on top of it.

Anyway, tell Sisah you've got another invisible visitor. Ask the Old Man if he'd like to talk. Is that his name? Or should we call him Death?
Main question we'd want to ask is... what happened that turned the Six into the Five? Then, what happened to Illasia? Finally, what happened to the four other gods to make them nonresponsive?

>Well… actually, thinking about it… maybe you can ask your wife to be if she got a… replacement girl for the guild to borrow?
So what, find Bri, see if she has someone to replace whoever they're sending with one of her own people, post some of her ninjas around where the meeting is going to take place and then catch my brother while he tries to frame me?

>What? Do I have something on my face?
just admiring the background.

...Sisah, maybe you should watch my back for a while. From behind me. I've got a bad feeling about this.

>…you can’t really try to arrest him before he does something… can you?
Sure. There have been similar murders before, right? When your brother is found with a terrified prostitute and a murder weapon, he'll be ears deep in shit.
>Have I ever been anything but of service to you?
My newfound paranoia is making me wonder why that is, though.
>What? Do I have something on my face?
I was just about to ask the same thing.

Cain, if you would be so kind as to find my Fiance? If discussing the replacement gambit with her at length is too disagreeable, just ask her to meet me here.
Once he leaves, tell Sisah you're curious too, and she has your permission to shadow him, on the condition she isn't caught and reports back to you. If she doesn't leave, you'll just have to act like a crazy person in front of her again when you ask Death what the hell he's looking at.

Kaktus 2016/01/26(Tue)17:07 No. 697449 ID: 65a774
File 145385687274.png - (26.91KB , 686x526 , 34.png )

>My newfound paranoia is making me wonder why that is, though.
Sir, how long have we known each other?
:KrononsSB: Since…forever, really.
Indeed, sir. I am a simple orphan, who without your intervention would have been nothing more than floor sweeper at best. Is that not enough to win someone’s loyalty?

>We have to put him away before he ruins the alliance and your life on top of it.
I concur. We can’t just ignore this and hope it goes away.
>There have been similar murders before, right? When your brother is found with a terrified prostitute and a murder weapon, he'll be ears deep in shit.
He probably won’t do the deed himself, sir, instead of relying on someone else to dirty their hands.
>Cain, if you would be so kind as to find my Fiance? If discussing the replacement gambit with her at length is too disagreeable, just ask her to meet me here.
As you wish, sir.

>Once he leaves, tell Sisah you're curious too, and she has your permission to shadow him, on the condition she isn't caught and reports back to you.
I’m your bodyguard, not spy. I’m not leaving you here.
>...Sisah, maybe you should watch my back for a while. From behind me.
…okay, what’s wrong? You’re acting… weird. Weirder than usual, at least.
>Tell Sisah you've got another invisible visitor.
Oh, great… more hallucinations…

>Ask the Old Man if he'd like to talk. Is that hi-

Kaktus 2016/01/26(Tue)17:08 No. 697450 ID: 65a774
File 145385688003.png - (43.74KB , 686x526 , 35.png )

AAAAH!!!
Kronos?

Kaktus 2016/01/26(Tue)17:08 No. 697451 ID: 65a774
File 145385689288.png - (60.19KB , 686x526 , 36.png )

I GIVETH THEE A GIFT OF SPLENDOR AND THIS IS THY APPRECATION!?
KRONOS!? What’s wrong!?
Perverting it, corrupting it, thou taketh its purity and befilthed it!
No magic… no wounds… no poison?
A gift given to ty kind, yet ye always seek ways to corrupt it.
Pulse stable… still breathing normally… but non-responsive?
I saw what happened last time ye kind proclaimed themselves above it, proclaimed themselves gods. The world itself cracked, which I will not allow again!
Can you hear me? Did… did you get a brain bleeding or something!? You’re so… cold?
The last of thee who did this was punished, their very souls ripped asunder and consumed! So what, Kronos, son of Helios, do thou have to sayeth in thee defense before I consume ye very being!?

>>697451
What? WHAT? Say you don't know what he's talking about you're not a god or anything! You don't even want to be one! You'll do whatever it takes to prevent whatever happened last time. The earth being cracked is certainly not something you want to happen. What happened last time, exactly?

Was it what Xuv did? Her blessing? DID SHE MAKE YOU IMMORTAL!? He's not just talking about praying to the gods, is he? Or is he talking about going along with Xuv's plan?

Wait, by "gift" he's talking about death, right? Or... reincarnation? Or, what?
(maybe ask those other questions I wanted to ask, too?)

I have just one question: Did you use to work in a place called the Metal Glen?

Maybe you could tell me what I did before executing me for it?

Cause I am pretty sure I am not trying to become a god or destroy the world.

Just a random guy who does not know what the hell is going on anymore.

"Well, way I see it, there are three types of people in this world: tits, butts, and cocks! We are born of the butts, made men by the dicks, and undone by the tits!

... Okay, have you calmed down yet?"

>>697451
What the hell are you talking about, what gift, this is the first time we have ever even spoken?!

>I GIVETH THEE A GIFT OF SPLENDOR AND THIS IS THY APPRECATION!?
If I'm corrupting a gift of yours it's only because I didn't even know I had it! The only gift I was told about was the one from Xuv, and that was only to help allow the marriage to work!
If you can actually TELL me what I'm doing wrong, even if you don't want to tell me what the gift was, then I can at least stop doing the wrong thing, but you can't just expect something to happen without telling somebody what needs doing!

I have no idea what you're talking about!! If you want me to stop doing a thing I'll stop! Are you talking about Xuv?

"wat"

>>697514
I agree

wat

What is this asshole going on about. Please don't tell me Death has gone as crazy as the others.

U WOT M8
U avin a giggle there m8
I'll fokkin bash you're head in swear on me mum.

Kaktus 2016/01/28(Thu)06:15 No. 697807 ID: 65a774
File 145399050881.png - (96.29KB , 686x526 , 37.png )

W-what d-d-did I… d-do…?
Thou did the unspeakable and corrupted my gift just like ye supposed “gods” of old.
G-gift… *cough* y-you mean… d-death?
Death!? Thee have the arrogance to think it’s the lack of me that is the gift!?
I AM LIFE! I AM EXISTENCE! The lord of souls, the king of being, the father of all there is to be!

I… *gasp* I… corrupted m-my life?
Hmm… confusion?
…d-did *cough*cough* X-xuv make m-me immor-

Kaktus 2016/01/28(Thu)06:15 No. 697808 ID: 65a774
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*GASP!* *cough* *wheeze* …hurk… *cough*
… … …Xuv.
S-she… gave me a g-gift too b-but… s-she said it was meant t-to help my m-marriage… n-not… i-immortality?
Tell me… where is she now? I need to talk to her… like I did with the rest of them.
L-like the rest of the f-five?
Five? Thou mean to say near a hundred, correct? Do thy ears not hear their screams of punishment, their torment for their crimes?
…y-you… k-killed them?
The “gods” of this world killed themselves in their arrogance, as well as the rest of the world they lived in. I simply punished them for their arrogance… though, some of them have still escaped my wrath.
B-but… I’m not d-dead… am I?
After what happened last time, I’ve taken a bit of a more direct approach. I will not let anyone corrupt my gift again.
S-so t-the five… t-they are…?
I do not care what happened to thy gods. I consumed a hundred beings after the end of the last age, all of them so called “endless gods”. Only a few of them escaped… this Xuv being one of them. Yes, I remember her… she kept bugging me to reveal my secrets. I need to talk to her, Kronos, so tell me where she is… or are thee deceiving my ears? Trying to throw away suspicion of thou own guilt?

Depends, you gonna T rekt her or no?

She said she's in a tower so deep underground that none can reach her... *wheeze* I wonder who's going to see her first at this rate...

She says she's imprisoned under the earth, but she's insane and I don't know what to believe. What did she do to me?

...what happens when someone dies?

She said something about an underground tower. Then again she's batshit insane, so take that for what you will.

Believe it or not, Kronos really doesn't want to be involved in all this bizarre god stuff. He's having enough trouble just being a husband.

>>697808
Don't tell him, dammit! Do you have no loyalty?

Warn him that another god is about to surface. That's more important than an escapee. The Archbishop knows more.

>I need to talk to her, Kronos, so tell me where she is
Why, what are you going to do to her? Besides I don't know where she is, she's been trapped by her sister Illasia since the fall of the empire and believes Illasia is now ruling as head god by fooling the rest of the 5. She's mostly been having me try and find out what Illasia has been up to and what she's planning as well as trying to catch up on current events.

...Are you the 7th? The god of gods the church is now worshiping and planning on slowly trying to figure out how to get the public to worship?

Oh shit also tell him about the weird visions you've been having- some powerful force is threatening you, and he should be interested in that.

If you are a all powerful over god you should be able to tell that I speak truthfully. Besides I am just a man not a mage or a god and have no idea how I would even begin to corrupt life or anything.

As for Xuv I am not sure where exactly she is. She has been trying to help me stop some other god that is trying to make a mess of things. All I know is that she was betrayed by her own kind and locked away eons alone. I have a feeling she was locked up when the world broke and might know know about what you did.

If so she probably has no idea that what she did was wrong. I know my opinion does not mean much but please don't just kill her offhand when you find her. She has been kind to me and I worry about her.

>Don't tell him, dammit! Do you have no loyalty?
We don't really know where she is; just that she claims to be locked somewhere underground. It is hardly betrayal to say that much.

Kaktus 2016/01/30(Sat)10:43 No. 698273 ID: 65a774
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>What are you going to do to her?
What I’ve done to the rest of her kin, give her the punishment she deserves! I will rip out her very soul and torment it for thousands of years!
>She probably has no idea that what she did was wrong. I know my opinion does not mean much but please don't just kill her offhand when you find her.
She slaughtered BILLIONS! She cracked the very world asunder and threw it all back to the age of beginnings! All because of PRIDE! They knew what would happen, they knew it would happen, yet they refused to release the souls of the dead! Instead, they watched the world burn, hoping that they alone would be spared! They do not deserve mercy!
>She says she's imprisoned under the earth, but she's insane and I don't know what to believe.
Hmfp… I will find her, even if thee help is useless…

>What did she do to me?
She fused ye soul to thee body, making thou an abomination of this world, a being whose death would be meaningless, as the gift would simply linger. An endless prison for thou soul, a prison that will rot and entrap thee in time. She says it is a gift, I say it’s a curse.
>...what happens when someone dies?
Thy gift is returned to my cultivated garden, where it will grow anew and then gifted to the next creature that deserve my gift. It is a cycle of life, yet there are some who sought to break it… and with it, the world.

>...Are you the 7th? The god of gods the church is now worshiping and planning on slowly trying to figure out how to get the public to worship?
Thou dare to compare me to one of thy false god!? I am not some mortal with self-delusions nor am I a creature of pretend dreamed up to answer thou unknowns. I am not a god created by beliefs of mortals, no, I am existence itself! I was the first and I will be the last. I am the beginning and I am the end! I exist, therefore everything else exist! I am beyond your foolish gods!

>Warn him that another god is about to surface.
…really? They must be trying to remain hidden from me… I must find them…
>The Archbishop knows more.
That mortal does not bear the sight… she is useless to me.
>Tell him about the weird visions you've been having.
...destruction of world once again... and talk of a new god? Hmm… yes, I will need thou aid. Thee will find this false god and destroy whatever wards it uses to hide itself. Do this before it achieves what thou would call godhood and I will come to punish it for its arrogance.
I-
Swear to me, Kronos, son of Helios, on thee life that thou will serve my will of vengeance.
I-
If thou succeed, I will grant thou a boon, the boon of mortality and remove the curse the false god have placed upon thee. But if thou would fail… then I will let thou soul be cursed, fused to thee body as it rot and imprisons thou in a well of eternal darkness. Oh, I’m sure thou mind will be nothing but a feral beast when I release thee in a thousand years… so, what say thee, Kronos, do thou swear in my name to destroy this new false god!?

I'll do my best?

>>698273
On one condition. Will he only do so after you've lived a long life? I mean, if you are mortally wounded at any point, then once he makes you mortal again you'll die immediately, won't you? You'd like to live at least as long as Briannah.

Also, Xuv said she was betrayed. Is he sure Xuv had anything to do with the world cracking? The visions you have seem to suggest Illasia was responsible for that. Actually, I'm SURE she's innocent. She hasn't lied to us, and has no idea the cataclysm even happened or if the "afterlife" still existed. Which it doesn't, because its continued presence was the underlying cause of the world cracking, wasn't it?

...or is Life lying to us? Is HE responsible for the world cracking? He seems to have an anger problem, and is generally a terrible person. Maybe he cracked the world to force the false gods to give up the afterlife, so he could reclaim the souls of the dead.

Still, we were told to ask him about what happened to the other gods. Does he know? Are they asleep, or did he find them and kill them and only Xuv remains? If he knows Illasia is dead, that'll be the confirmation we need to deliver to Xuv.

Please, let me verify before I swear. Literally everyone I know has been telling me half-truths and withholding information, my trust is vitally damaged.

WAIT A MINUTE

Xuv can just take back her blessing. He's not offering anything we can't already get. How about a counter-offer? You prevent the end of the world by dealing with the new false god, and he helps you with some other problems? Like, this business with your brother? Or any other conspiracies that stand in the way of the alliance and your happiness?

Also, if he considers killing the false gods to be a punishment, why would he consider killing you to be a reward? He's contradicting himself.

What if he's crazy, too?

In any case, this is an age of technologies. Kronos might not be fine but he will try to resolve this.

But yeah, new God needs to die before whole planet go boom.

Well, he's not really offering much of a choice now, is he?

Why is everyone coming to ME of all people for these things? The runt of my family, a prince so useless and unmemorable that most don't even know my name.

Oh and are you talking about when the river of souls dried up and the old empire fell? Yeah, from what we've been able to piece together it sounded like Illasia used it's powers to seal Xuv away destroying it in the process, but you have a clearer sight on what actually happened, how did the old world fall?

As for the deal... well Xuv said that without the river of souls the only way for someone to become a god was to basically sacrifice whole nations to gain enough juice to become a god so unless this guy is already a god in hiding it might actually be in our beast interest to try and stop this guy.

...Oh and from what you remember from when we prayed to the fire god, does the old man here sound like the guy yelling?

Wait a minute.
"Then, intense visions clouds your eyes, as you witness a great warrior, clad in light and gold, confront six nightmarish creatures. One by one, the horrid beasts fall before the mighty sword of the warrior and one by one, they let go of the chains they used to enslave the world. Stepping over the carcasses of the slain beasts, the warrior ascends the stairs and sits on the throne of the heavens, become the one true god of all there is, and the people pray, laugh and cry out of happiness as the new god brings his blessing to the world. As the seas boil, the forests burn and the very earth is struck asunder, the people pray, laugh and thanks their lord for his wisdom. As famine, war and plagues ravage the lands, the people pray, laugh and give their very souls in gratitude to their lord. As the last man, surrounded by nothing but death and decay, falls weak from disease and famine, he pray, laugh and with his last breath, thanks the lord for his blessing... and the warrior can simply laugh seeing the barren world, created from his love for it… his love for the very people that has perish by his hand. The warrior simply laughed into the face of despair, as he once again raised the sword to slay the seventh and last beast."

This is talking about LIFE.

Also, a conversation with Belseth:
(Belseth) Ah, yes… well, see… they have found evidence that there’s a… over god, so to speak.
(Kronos) …an over god?
(Belseth) A god above the five, the god that supposedly created them from the beginning. He is the real creator of this world, while the five is his servants. He has returned his gaze unto this world, and with it a new golden age will dawn, remaking the empire of old.

ALSO talking about Life. The Archbishop is trying to put Life up as a god to be worshipped. Yet we now know what happens if that comes to pass.
Yet, we can't agree to this deal! It's impossible to kill Life, so Life will in return wait 3000 years for Kronos to die! In fact, the deal is worded so that it's possible it could refer to Xuv. In that case we would be agreeing to betray her.

...man I swear I've seen Life's design, under the robe, somewhere before...

>>698297
We can "agree" and swear to a slightly different wording: "I swear to stop this seventh god before it can bring ruin to the world". That gets the general idea across while accounting for whether or not the seventh god is him.

I'm conflicted. I want to do what you want, because I was going to do it anyways... but I also want to be a lich. And my siblings thought I would never make anything of myself!

Also, don't do anything yet. I'm going to the archbishop's later today, if this... curse, is why I got an in I want to hold up under scrutiny.

Well, Life's got you over a barrel here. The only reason it hasn't devoured your soul is it needs you as its agent. Turn it down and you face a fate worse than death. You have to take its offer. Besides, you were going to stop the creation of this new "god" anyway.

Tell Life you were planning to try to stop the creation of this new "god" anyway, so you'll take up its offer. In fact, you offer to do more than that. If it tells you who and what the other missing "gods" besides Xuv are, you'll keep a lookout for them too. (If Life agrees then you'll know if Illasia is still around, along with any other immortals that may be trouble.) Though, with how it described what would happen to you thanks to Xuv's "gift" how does it know that they aren't just mad, feral souls chained to bones buried in the earth or similar by now.

Comment that you don't know how whoever seeks to become this new false god would get the immense number of souls needed to do so. You asked Xuv about it and she said it'd take the souls of nearly everyone in the world to do what created her. You don't see how it'd be possible to not only kill near everyone and also trap their souls at the same time and bring them together for that... Unless... Unless they don't need to burn a whole bunch of small souls, but rather one huge one. What if they knew where one of the old "gods" is? One trapped and weakened by age and who could be killed by them under the right circumstances... Like Xuv, perhaps? What if they know where Xuv is? And the archbishop supposedly does, going by what Belseth said a few days ago before his meeting with her in the crypt. And she's doing all that heavy magic work in the temple, right over Xuv's prison. That can't just be a coincidence, can it?

>That mortal does not bear the sight… she is useless to me.
No, you didn't mean for Life to speak directly to her. You meant you suspect the archbishop worked to recreate the method that elevated Xuv and her ilk. She's doing something involving soul cradles, going by the paper Belseth dropped. And there's been magical activity in the temple for several days strong enough to keep throwing the palace mages' instruments' calibration off. And Belseth mentioned that she's going to introduce not just a new "over-god" for the pantheon, but that there'll be a "avatar" of it. Also, Chronicler/History mentioned the archbishop intent to conquer the world, and elevating yourself to god-like power would go a hell of a long way to fulfilling that desire.

>>698299
I dunno if we've seen Life's design before, but I did notice Life has a notch in its beak similar to the one Kronos' father Helios got from Krotos' assassination attempt three years ago. Can't say if that's just a coincidence or not, though.

Sure, why not. We were already trying to stop them anyways.

Kaktus 2016/01/31(Sun)09:21 No. 698509 ID: 65a774
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>...Oh and from what you remember from when we prayed to the fire god, does the old man here sound like the guy yelling?
He sounds like ten thousand poor souls screaming in unison from the deepest of reaches. An impossible deep voice, yet it hurt your ears just hearing it. He sounds nothing like the other gods.

>On one condition. Will he only do so after you've lived a long life?
Thee will live the life that the paths thou chooses gives to thee. Nothing more, nothing less.
>Xuv can just take back her blessing.
Thou really believe she has the power to do so? …are thee ready to gamble on it?
>How about a counter-of-
No.
>I also want to be a lich.
In a week’s time, thou strength will give in as thee muscles rot, making it impossible for thee to move. Then thou will become blind, deaf and mute, as thee eyes, ears and tongue turns to ash. Soon, even the silken touch of sunlight will go by unnoticed, trapping thy in a prison of darkness, a prison made out of ashen bone and rotting flesh. Is that truly what thou want?
N-no…
>if he considers killing the false gods to be a punishment, why would he consider killing you to be a reward?
Death is not the punishment. The imprisonment of their soul is.

>"I swear to stop this seventh god before it can bring ruin to the world".
And so, by the blood of thy family, the blood of kings and queens of fire, thou is bound to thy word. Keep it and thou might live in peace. Break it and thou soul is forfeit.

>Also, Xuv said she was betrayed. Is he sure Xuv had anything to do with the world cracking?
She knew it would happen, by her Pride and egomania blinded her and her kin. They refused to accept the truth and thus the world ended.
>We were told to ask him about what happened to the other gods. Does he know?
So many I have consumed, so many I did not know the names of or have forgotten. Any “god” that is still alive is hiding away, because as soon as they meddle with the affairs of mortals once again, I will find them.
>Why is everyone coming to ME of all people for these things? The runt of my family, a prince so useless and unmemorable that most don't even know my name.
Thee competence might be lacking, but thou is still born of the fire. Born to choose more paths then others, it is not surprising fate dreams of interesting things when it comes to thee.

>Oh and are you talking about when the river of souls dried up and the old empire fell? How did the old world fall?
The power of the soul… what thou call magic, such an interesting gift, no? People of the talent are capable of using their own life energy to bend reality itself. Then there are the vessels, just another body for a soul to inhabit, even if it is artificial. These vessels can power wonders and at the height of the old empire, they powered the world itself. City flew in the sky, towers reached the heavens and the world turned to the power of the souls. But then the people drank too deep in the well, creating artificial afterlives and absorbed too much power into themselves. Without a source of fresh souls, the well dried up and with it, the world stopped turning. Cities fell from the sky, towers toppled from the heavens and the world stopped. As the magic disappeared completely from the world, it took with it most of the people living there, leaving only ruin in its wake. That’s how the world was cracked and how thou “gods” killed billions. But now… the river of souls runs once again and magic is coming back to the world… and with it, more delusions of godhood.

>Xuv said that without the river of souls the only way for someone to become a god was to basically sacrifice whole nations to gain enough juice to become a god.
They need to feed on souls, be it from the well or from the bodies of the living or dead. They might feed on cities, on the rotting corpses of gods or the very river itself, it does not matter. Thou need to stop them.
>The Archbishop is trying to put Life up as a god to be worshipped.
I am not a god, nor will I be worshipped. I exist to ensure all living things exist, nothing more. If people would dare worship me, I would simply rip my image out of their memories, ensuring that they never knew I existed.
>You suspect the archbishop worked to recreate the method that elevated Xuv and her ilk. She's doing something involving soul cradles.
Yes, cradles… I know them. They are, in themselves, harmless… just another body that will die in time. But, the knowledge on how to make them is dangerous. Keep thee eyes on this archbishop, as I will.

Now, remember thy task Kronos, son of Helios, find where this new “god” will be born and destroy whatever wards is protecting it from my sight. I will do the rest.