Fantasy World Creations

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 10 - 1 PM

When you finally left, you ensured that Falah was fast asleep. The day's drama or perhaps the fact you were comforting her made her sleep soundly even though it was just about afternoon. Lunch was already being served, with most people finishing up. When Trudy noticed you, she quickly pulled out what looked to be a tray of food.

"How was it?" She asked as she put the tray in front of you. After you pick it up, or not, she would either put it to the side and then pick up a second tray.

"I usually hand Falah her lunch and then from there we decide if she would like to help clean up. The dishes or other things mainly." Trudy explained.

You also noticed the Valkyrie sitting on a chair, sipping away at tea. She had her eyes on you, but simply kept a silent watch.

Hanako picked up the tray so she could give Trudy a hand. "About as you could expect I guess. Shes upset and apologetic and I did what I could to make her see that its in everyone's best interest not to try and contact her father. I'd appreciate if you could keep steering her in that direction. She's not inherently bad or duplicitous, she just wants someone to accept her for who she is. Desperate people do desperate things, so lets give her what she needs."

She brought her shoulders up and let them fall again in the universal sign of "I don't know".

"She was asleep when I left her room, cried herself into exhaustion I guess. We should try not to wake her."

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 10 - 1 PM

"I see..." Trudy said. "Don't worry, you can count on me." She said a moment later as she smiled at you. Bring the second tray with her she began to move to Falah's room. The guards at the door saluted at the both of you as you neared, and Trudy gently opened the door, while placing the tray of food on a nearby table.

Falah was still in bed, wrapped up in her blankets in a fetal position. Trudy sighed. "I never thought I would be taking care of a demon myself." Trudy said. "But... I almost feel like I'm taking care of a little sister, bringing her food like this, helping her clean and guide her around the house." With that, Trudy began making her way out the door again as she glanced back at Falah one more time.

"Let's let her sleep."

A little sister huh... Hanako thought absentmindedly.

After they closed the door, she remembered she was holding a tray full of food. "Oh right, where is this going to?"

"That's ours!" Trudy declared. She began to point at each of the items on the tray. "Everyone decided it would be trying out people's home-made recipes, so there were a lot of chefs in the kitchen earlier while we were talking with everyone in the basement, and during that time you were with Falah in her room. All of these are everyone's special recipes. I tried to get a little bit of everything, but since it's a lot of food, I was waiting for you to finish too."

She looked towards you with a slight blush on her features.

"Would you like to eat lunch with me?" Trudy asked. "I would get Minette too, but she's been busy trying to get captain Dietrich setup with the proper learning materials to teach Akime correctly."

"Oh! That sounds good, I'm starving so lets go find a spot and eat!" Hanako replied excitedly. It wasn't much of an exaggeration, the day had been painfully long and full of excitement and was barely halfway over, so she had become very aware of her own hunger once she had seen the food. There was still a lot left in the day she needed to get done, as well as some minor planning. The thought of what was down in the mine marked on Klein's map was constantly picking at the back of her brain.

"Lead the way my dear!" she said cheerfully.

[info]Hanako will take her lunch with Trudy. If there's nothing major happening then, she'll resume training on firearms, two normal sessions. Afterwards, if nothing major happens she wants to run some ideas past Trudy and Minette prior to whatever mischief Minette has planned for the evening.[/info]

[info]Training Firearms Prof.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 8 + 7, total 15[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Training Firearms Prof.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 15 + 7, total 22[/blockquote][/info]

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 10 - 9 PM

Soon evening, evening came, and you found yourself alone with both Minette and Trudy.

QuotePresumably this is in the bedroom? But feel free to state otherwise.

Training
Firearms: 6/8

Hanako plopped down on the bed without changing, falling backwards and spreading her arms wide. She let out a long slow sigh as she let herself feel the accumulated fatigue of the day.

"Long day..." she said, to nobody in particular. After a minute she rolled to her side. "I'm thinking of outlining my entire plan in detail so I don't have to micro manage as much... It would be good if I could spend some time looking into that mine that was marked on the map without having to worry that I'll come back to the mansion being on fire or something. Thoughts?" The question was directed at both Trudy and Minette, whom Hanako, her most trusted (and probably first) friends.

"Oh... Well... The day to day business... It was mainly run by me with guidance and final approval from Klein for any transactions and deals... We still... get reports from the other sites like normal which let us know decisions each site has made, along with requests, updates, and up-to-date information..."

"Perhaps... I could train with Aldric more... so that he can have a better feel of Klein's business... and general business sense..."

"There is also Sofia... With her sending people over to our estate, she must have something planned in order to run the business without the demons knowing. That's why we got Aldric and captain Dietrich in the first place."

Hanako scratched the back of her head lazily with the hand she wasn't propping herself up with. "Good points. I think I'm gonna talk with them tomorrow about doing things with a little more autonomy. As long as they don't deviate from the escape plan, they'll probably do things carefully enough not to get caught."

She flopped back on the bed again and stretched out with an exaggerated "Hnnnnnnnnnngh!"

"I guess you should give him the rundown so he can do things on his own. There's nothing coming up tomorrow I don't think so it'll be a good day to talk to them both. I should probably start working on getting Kari to trust me as well... We're gonna need all the combat specialists we can get in the future. I'll worry about that tomorrow though, now is time to relax a bit..."

The both of them began to change as well. Trudy was still slightly embarrassed, so she had turned around like the times before while she changed into her pajamas. Minette on the other hand simply changed in front of you.

"There's... something we want to give you." Minette said softly as she looked towards you. She then moved her eyes towards Trudy.

"Don't be so modest Minette... This was your idea." Trudy said smiling gently.

"You helped too..." Minette replied back. With that, Trudy reached for the short desk next to the bed, and opened a drawer on it. She had her hands over it, then moved her cupped hands over to you. When she finally dropped the item into your own hands. You saw their gift.

[spoiler]It was a locket. A picture of both Minette and Trudy inside.
(https://i.gyazo.com/018ec88b1432de1d7a15643e0103cc27.png)[/spoiler]

Hanako clutched the locket tightly in her hands, they trembled slightly as she felt herself becoming a little overcome with emotion. She brought her still tightly closed hands to her face and wiped away a tear that was forming in one of her eyes, threatening to break the carefree persona she wore all the time. "Th- *sniff* thank you, girls. I've... never been given anything like this before. It means so much to me. I'll wear it forever!"

With that she brought the chain up and over her head, letting the locket hang down off her neck. She placed her hand on it again, pressing it gently into her skin. "You two... are the best!" Hanako said, eyes starting to water again. Her voice was almost a sob of happiness. The gift was simple, but its emotional value was beyond compare. It was both a validation of Hanako's existence and an affirmation that other people cared for her deeply enough to solidify it in an object to be treasured.

Both girls smiled gently. Trudy stepped into the bed and pulled you into a hug, though Minette followed soon after with a hug from behind.

"There, there..." Trudy said quietly. Minette on the other hand was silent, though, you could feel her squeeze you tighter. After however long it took, eventually the other two girls would let go, their eyes gentle and warm as they stared upon you.

"You... are the one... that's the best..." Minette finally said.

"*sniff* I dunno about that... but I'm happy you think of me like that." Hanako said, smiling and wiping the last of the dampness from the corner of her eyes. She grabbed the two of them in a tight three way hug and fell backwards onto the bed.

"You're too good to me." she whispered.

At the very least, no matter how hard things might be in the future, this was worth getting hit by a truck.

The three of you crumpled on to the bed together, with Trudy giggling, while Minette smiled fondly.

"I hope... this can last forever." Minette said softly as she nuzzled into you on your left.

QuoteLet me know when I should move on to next scene, and state formal plans for the day after too.

It was in the middle of the night that you felt someone stirring beside you, gently trying to nudge you awake. When you finally awoke, you realized it was Minette to your side. Her arms were around you, gently attempting to shake you awake while Trudy slept soundly on your other side.

"Hanako... There's something else I want to tell you..." She said as her red eyes glistened in the dim light of the room. She didn't have her glasses on, having put them away on the table next to her earlier that night. Her ears had perked up as well, and she looked at you with a look of determination.

"I haven't... felt as happy... as how I have been in a long time now... And that is because of you..." Her voice had a tone of seriousness to them.

[spoiler][/spoiler]

Hanako, had to fight every impulse she had to shoot comically upright in surprise. "Wh-what!?" she managed to stammer quietly, trying not to wake Trudy who was still asleep.

She could feel her heart pounding in her chest as her mind raced. "M-m-make you m-mine?" she repeated what Minette had said, and her eyes darted around the darkness of the room. For all the casual flirting she had been doing over the last few days, Hanako was still a maiden at heart and the situation was well beyond her practical experience.

Minette smiled softly as she nodded slowly. "There was something we were saving tonight..."  She then placed a finger on your lips as she moved herself closer to you. Tracing her finger across your lips to your cheek, she then placed her other hand to the back of your neck. She looked at you for a few seconds. Her smile was genuine, and her eyes almost twinkled in the dimly lit room. Her next words came in her trademarked slow and deliberate speech pattern.

"You... promised... me..."

[spoiler][/spoiler]

Minette had been, for the ten or so days Hanako had known her, very forward. Tonight was no exception. She had been a little surprised when the girl had closed the already small distance between them, but it wasn't unpleasant. Hanako was at her core a very passive person, only the recent change in her life had made her act against her "back seat" style of reacting to life instead of changing the flow of events herself. At this moment, she back into the old passive Hanako and let Minette drag her into the girl's pace.

She laid hand on the girl's back and pressed their bodies together gently. An involuntary sound of enjoyment escaped from her, despite having her lips pressed against Minettes.

The kiss was long as Minette wouldn't let up. But eventually the demihuman soldier let go. Her eyes had a certain glow and warmth to them. There was a vibrance in there that only added to her allure as she was bathed in the light of the moonlit sky. There was only a slight blush covering her cheeks, she looked calm, relaxed, and at peace. She held you tenderly for a few moments as her eyes wouldn't stop looking into yours. A few moments after that she had attempted to push you back on the bed, with her on top, clutching to you tightly. Her head was lying on your chest, her breathing syncing with the rise and fall of your own.

"Maybe Trudy can join us next time?" Minette teased in her soft and whispering voice.

"That would be nice." Hanako whispered back, closing her eyes and sinking back into her pillow. She ran her fingers through Minette's hair absentmindedly, enjoying the subtle press of the girl's weight on her body.

What a day... she thought.

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 11 - 6 AM

The next morning soon came around. Today was perhaps the first free day without any scheduled plans, though you knew that everyone else in the estate was already busy preparing. The soldiers were training with their firearms, the capable casters were learning how to use transfer magic, Akime was probably being taught Japanese, and likely Minette was planning to work with Aldric today, so at the very least the actor can start making informed decision without needing guidance from you or anyone else Sofia brings on board.

After finishing small breakfast and doing some light calisthenics Hanako went over her mental notes for what needed to be done today. The first thing on her agenda was to hunt down Kari and try to establish a relationship that was less overtly hostile. She steeled herself for what was assuredly going to be a tense encounter and set off in search of the valkyrie, humming a nameless tune as she meandered about the estate.

Now if I were an angry girl with a violent streak, where would I be spending my time...?

You eventually found her. She was in one of the common rooms sitting in a corner sipping away at some tea. She had since changed into her belongings she had before, which consisted of a set of armor. There were metallic pieces on her body, along with a metallic headpiece that covered her forehead. The fabric parts of the armor were a shade of purple. with trims of silver on it. In some ways, the outfit looked more like a dress with metallic covers strapped to it. Given that everyone else was wearing either uniforms or comfortable clothing, the valkyrie stood out from the rest. If she was conscience of that fact however, she did not show it. She looked to be content simply sipping her tea.

Hanako plopped down onto a seat nearby and crossed one leg over the other casually. "Good morning, Kari. Sleep well?" she asked, and prepared herself for a sharp reply. Small talk with the diminutive murder machine was likely to be a... prickly experience.

Kari continued to sip her tea, relaxed and slowly, another few more moments she placed it down on the table.

"I thank thee for asking. T'was a good rest. Mine dreams are much the same for the past century." She opened her eyes and stared at you. "Taking back mine home, pushing mine enemies back from whence they came from, and most pleasantly, ripping the heads of demons off their very shoulders." She smiled pleasantly, though there was a steely hint to them "How was thy rest, hero?"

Hanako stared for a beat. I don't know what I was expecting there.

"Oh, good. Restful." she said, pausing for a moment to think of how to continue. "So uh, I'm pretty new to this, uhh, world and I've never met a valkyrie before. I was hoping I could take a little time to get to know you, since you're here and all. If you don't mind that is."

Real smooth Hanako. Not awkward at all.

Kari continued to sip her tea, relaxed and slowly, another few more moments she placed it down on the table.

"Erstwhile, mine experiences differ. Thou art the third hero I hath met. The first two dies at the hands of demons." She sipped her tea again. "However... oft do I believe that I am quite unlike any other valkyrie that thou shalt meet. I sayeth this not to give myself esteem or favor, nay. But tis the truth. The valkyrie call me 'Witch of Jorundarfell' not just for mine long life-span and youthful beauty, but also for mine beliefs. Though I follow the goddess, tis not the same goddess that mine brethren take swear fealty to. Theirs be the Goddess of Light, forswear that allegiance! I, Kari Vollan, follow mine goddess, the Goddess of Darkness. And though the Goddess of Light's blood flows through mine veins, tis not something I hath chosen. The rest of mine kin are blind. Blind to the teachings of their Goddess, when she is naught but a whore."

"No denying the youthful beauty part." Hanako said in an offhand manner, hopefully not coming off as obvious. "So I'm the third you've met huh? I'll see what I can do to not get killed." she remarked and paused thoughtfully for a moment. "I've only met one goddess myself. Right after I got hit by a truck and died the first time. Her name was... Erato. I don't recall what exactly she was the goddess of and I can't exactly say I follow her, but I don't mind that she let me get a second chance at living. I'm curious about your own though, as well as the other. I haven't been here long so I'm still not totally up to speed on how things work around here. Aside from demon invasion and all that."

With cup in both of her hands, she smiled warily.

"Thou have met a goddess? But... Thou is the hero, mayhaps that makes sense. Many of the other valkyrie would die just to meet their goddess." Kari rolled her eyes. "Fools." She said as she shook her head. "I hath prolonged my life through magicks that the rest of the valkyrie forsake. Tis something I hath learned when I was young. I know not how many years ago now, for age simply becomes just yet another number to keep track of. Mayhaps 2,000 years ago? In hindsight, my learning this kind of magic... twas what started mine fall from grace from the rest of mine kin." She placed the cup of tea down, then took a deep breathe.

"The rest of them scorned me for what I was learning. Even the drotten, mine own mother, forsook me. I was banished, to fend against the wolves of winter in the harsh tundras of mine home. At first I despised mine magick, or of pursuing learning it from the wanderer who hath befriended me then. But then... I hath realized that twas the blind devotion to the 'Light' that hath the rest of them forsake others. Mine magic... the magic of death, tis not an evil, nay, but tis a tool. But to the rest of mine kin? Tis an abomination equal to the demons. For a time I lived in the outskirts and fringes of society, I grew accustomed more to traders from the southern human kingdoms, and twas I found tales of the Goddess of Darkness. Her true tales. Not the lies that mine brethren speak when they speak of her."

"Tis true, that the Goddess of Darkness and Goddess of Light are sisters. But that's as far as the relation meets. The Goddess of Light created the valkyrie. Dost thou know how? Thousands upon thousands of years in the past, she hath walked the lands of humans, and made children from them. Their offspring t'would have been the valkyrie. A race of women, where our offspring too become one of art own. She bedded perhaps hundreds of men. And when she was through, the start of the valkyrie began. Tis a Goddess that seeks only pleasure, and though she claims to be of the 'Light', I hath started to see such things more as a mask for true evil-doing."

"Whereas the Goddess of Darkness, ever she be a true ally of the valkyrie, and of men. The Goddess of Darkness receiveth other names from the people of this world. The Goddess of Sin, of Anger, of Hatred, and of all negative emotions. Tis true... I make no battle against such accusations, for mine goddess tis indeed the goddess of all those things. But dost thou know why? A reason more important that the denizens of this world choose to ignore, forget, or rewrite their stories to fit their view. The Goddess of Darkness contains such emotions, she holds sway over them as they occur, and as they weigh on one's consciousness. But that darkness, tis a part of everyone. Even heroes, as blessed by the goddesses themselves, are prone to the taint and darkness that dwells within all of us. The Goddess of Darkness teaches one for controlling such emotions, even it be a part of one's own self. Tis said in some of the oldest scriptures about the goddesses, that the Goddess of Darkness fights too against the demons and their dark master. In her own way. Surely mine goddess knows that her position would give her scorn from the rest of the gods, and their followers, but in mine eyes, ever she is more noble for continuing to choose her path. Tis why I swear my fealty to her. For I, Kari Vollan, know that I am not a perfect valkyrie, nay, I have killed many, and though I wield the powers of death at my beck and call, I let it not rule me. Like any valkyrie, I believeth in justice, honor, and self-worth. Mine enemies art the enemies of mankind... But... Unlike mine own kin, I shalt not stay my blade whenever my kin or any man showeth evil. Thy pet demon tis in such a category, but of course I shalt stand by my word."

Hanako raised an eyebrow when Kari mentioned her age. 2000 year old loli. Classic trope.

"That sounds... very complicated." Hanako said, when the valkyrie had finished speaking. "Then again I guess it isn't really. Everyone does feel those kinds of emotions, and in the end it's more about how you make use of them that determines if they're bad or not. Just tools, as you said. Your goddess doesn't sound all that bad to me."

She shifted her weight in the chair. "She's half human by the way. I don't know if that really makes a difference since I admittedly have little experience with demons. She seems to struggle with it though, being torn between two different worlds. I don't think she want's to hurt anyone that hasn't mistreated her though."

Hanako leaned forward to rest her head on her hand. "We didn't get off to a great start, but I hope that we can be friends despite that. Whenever you feel comfortable enough, if ever, I'd like to learn some more about the kind of magic you use. I did an... interesting spell the other day that nobody really knew anything about, but the nature of it seemed... uhh, dark? I guess... is the best way to put it? So perhaps I have an affinity for it. Don't know for sure though, a little over a week ago I thought magic was something made up for stories and games."

"Half human? That explains why she looks almost human. Truth be told, there art other types of demons which can mimic humans. Succubus type demons for one such example, but theirs is more of a glamour and magic the hide their true selves. Ever since this way started with the demons, I hath heard of half-demons that roam the lands. This is the first I hath laid my eyes on one."

She nodded when you asked about the magic.

"The valkyrie were created to be the guides of man, and though I despise thy choice of willingly bringing demons, half or no, innocent or not, tis a choice fraught with peril. Mine capture, twas only because I fell for the guile of demons. But fear not, hero, I shalt be thy servant, if thou truly art on the side of man. If tis magic that thou wishes to know, speak to me when thou has decided."

With that, the girl picked up her cup of tea, and had once again began to sip on it.

"That's a gamble I'm willing to make. The stakes will be a little lower in the near future anyway, once things start moving. I dunno if you meant it literally or not, but you aren't really my servant. True, I technically paid money for you but it was really more of a way to ensure you were freed. People aren't property, and I want us to be friends."

Hanako held out her hand amicably. "And I'll be sure to come to you when I get a free moment, I'd love to learn anything you're willing to teach. Also, I might be heading out to do some field work here in another day or so. I could probably use your help, but we'll need to be stealthy and diplomatic at the start though I anticipate the possibility for violence. I can fill you in on the details later if you're interested."

The girl reached her hand out to hold yours.

"Let me know when thou plans this 'field work'. I shalt ensure the demons stay far from thee. And those that draw near shalt taste mine blade." She paused for a moment. "Save for thy own demon of course."  She let go of your hand then. "Tis a pleasure to meet the Refedorian hero."

"I'm not sure if we'll have to fight any demons yet, but it will be reassuring to have you along. Glad to meet you too. I look forward to working together." Hanako said, and then stood up. "I'll see you around the estate, feel free to make yourself as comfortable as you want to be."

She took her leave. There were some other things that she would like to ask Kari about, but they could wait. For now it was just important to establish a rapport. Hanako knew the limits of her own abilities (for the time being) so having a wide pool of allies with unique talents would be essential to everyone's survival. She made her way towards the firing range in the basement, asking a passing soldier to tell Minette that she wanted to have a meeting with all of the major players at the estate later that night.

Down at the firing range she selected one of the mundane weapons with which to train, and joined any of the soldiers that were down there in practice.

[info]Doing two normal sessions of firearms proficiency training.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 20 + 7, total 27[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 20 + 7, total 27[/blockquote][/info]

[info]When training is complete, she'll make her way to whatever room the others meet up in. Provided nothing else happens.[/info]

QuoteYou complete Firearms Proficiency after the first session. State something else to train with the second session.

[info]Starting light armor proficiency for the second training.[/info]

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 11 - 7 PM

QuoteYou have a timeslot from 3PM -> 7PM you can use to help train someone, or attempt Forced Training rules if you'd like.

Training
Light Armor Proficiency: 2/8

Your summons made it around to everyone, and after dinner everyone decided to meet at the first floor's meeting room; the same one that was used for all previous meetings in the past. The instructions were vague enough that almost everyone you knew had appeared. There were more than enough chairs for everyone in attendance.

Hanako stepped up to the table and glanced around at the slightly-more-crowded than she had intended room with a raised eyebrow.

Well... I guess this is technically all the major players... she thought, more amused than anything else.

She cleared her throat, and waited for anyone that was having a side conversation to stop speaking.

"Friends, I've called you here because I think its time to discuss how we move forward with my plans. Also, coincidentally I'll be going over the broad strokes of the operation to make sure everyone is on the same page. It's been a busy couple weeks and I cant exactly remember who I've told all the details to." she announced, smiling bashfully at her own forgetfulness.

"Anyway, the situation is this..." she began, and launched into a brief recounting of the events of the last eleven days. She then proceeded to outline her plan to leave Refedora in broad strokes; explaining how they were going to shuffle the people Klein had enslaved at other locations to a new lumber mill that was being purchased, claiming they were to be used as labor to build the mill as a cover for the mass migration. She detailed how a deal had been struck with Sofia to acquire ships to transport everyone to Isikawa and then use them to smuggle newly manufactured arms to other countries to fight the demons; how Aldric was to remain at the estate to keep up appearances while Sofia managed the actual Klein company so that there would be a continued stream of revenue making its way to the colony Hanako hoped to make overseas. At last she came to the final part of her plan, the one that she hadn't discussed with anyone, but was sure that by now people had figured it out.

"Using a foothold in Isikawa as a base we are going to mount a guerrilla resistance against the occupation here. Hopefully we will be able to coordinate and cooperate with the Isikawan military and be able to serve as a surgical strike-force and eventually carry out attacks from within Refedora itself from concealed cells of independently operating agents." Hanako explained, then took a breath.

"Does anyone have any questions or concerns?"

"I have one darling." Wendy said as she raised her hand. She was sitting to your right, on one of the chairs against the wall. "There's a lot of other slaves and employees of the Klein company at both the moneylending and trinkets storefront and the refining factory that we have in the city. I know we've kept things under wraps of what's happening here in the estate, but how do ya plan to move them? Are we shutting down the factory? Is Sofia replacing all the workers with her own? I know the plan is to downsize the businesses, and pretend to move them to nearer the transport ships. But we can't downsize each part of Klein's company to nothing, that would be too suspicious."

"If I can have my input here?" Aldric said raising his voice hesitantly. "I've been spending my time lately catching up on Klein's businesses, and Minette has been helping me understand how Klein's company worked. I've also been looking at the contract that was signed between Hanako and Sofia... I'm no businessman, it was never a thing I looked into... But I can't help but wonder if we need to make deals again with the Birkensen Trading company. Here me out now. You have what you need to escape: the galleys, the weapons, the goods to smuggle to Isikawa, then me, along with Sofia's employees coming in to 'fill' this estate with a false-life once everyone else has left. But there was nothing in the contract for the rest of the businesses like what Wendy had mentioned. We can probably get away with downsizing some things and moving some workers... But with what I've been reading into Klein's records, this company was very heavy into the mining and refining of metals, and creation of objects afterwards. Believe me, there's many traitors of Refedoria who would be willing to sell their fellow countrymen for their own safety or favors from our demon overlords, if word gets out, it would be horrendous."

"I think... And I'm sorry if this is presumptuous of me, I'm no businessman... But I think we need to think of some way to make it look as if Klein's ventures in his core areas, such as mining and refining aren't completely abandoned. Here's my idea..."

"Klein has enough assets to live a comfortable life without the need for his company. We could have Klein announce retirement, nothing so grand of course, perhaps simply sending that notice to the company's business partners. Sofia could then come in and potentially buy the entirety of the company, not just the 50% of all profits. This would give the company an excuse to shuffle people around. And with how fast the Birkensen Trading Company has expanded in the last few years, I doubt anyone would bat an eye if that company went on to suddenly create new factories and lumber processing mills that just happen to be near the port where we want. We could completely shutdown the foundries and stores here in Elstergen or anywhere else without much suspicion. After all... With a public sale of the Klein company to the fastest growing company in the last few decades, it would certainly be obvious huge changes will come to Klein's company. It would hopefully be enough to mask whatever other activities we might end up doing."

"It's a bit theatrical... But again I'm no businessman. But... If you can keep your audience's eyes and expectations on a pair of characters, they'll never notice the stagehands moving the props right behind them, changing the entire scene."

Hanako rubbed her chin in thought considering the points being raised. "Mmmm... you may be right." she said hesitantly. "I guess I had assumed that by splitting profits, Sofia would have moved her own workers into the locations we are pulling out from to keep them running. But if she's only taking a slice of the income while providing all of the manpower I could see where that looks like a raw deal on her part. I'll consider it, but giving it all over to her might be the safer choice to serve as a smoke screen of sorts. I'll need to make sure we have the funds to set up the colony if we go that route, then I'll make a decision."

She turned to Minette. "After this can you and Wendy run the numbers and see how well we'll fare with just the assets we can take with us? You know the ones." she said, intentionally being vague about the large chests of coinage that were in the basement. "If we have to start with less, we are going to need to figure out a way to become self sufficient quickly with the number of people we plan to leave with. A group of starving refugees showing up in a foreign land is a lot less favorable than a group of people that can actually contribute to a local economy."

Hanako turned her focus back to the group. "Anyone else?"

Minette nodded as Wendy's eyes lit up. Elyse Dietrich spoke next.

"I have one. When do you plan to leave the estate? I have instructions from Frau Leiningen to accept any of the Birkensen employees coming in to replace what we have here. Not too many at one time to avoid suspicion, at the same time, we need to ensure there are enough of Frau Leiningen's men to continue to maintain the site, and to put on airs for any future meeting with officials, or contracts to be created from our fake Herr Klein. Apart from me and the men that came with me, along with the men that came with Aldric, we have another few more soldiers coming in the next few days to continue filling the void in. If need be, I can request Frau Leiningen to send the men sooner."

"I can't give you a specific day yet, the logistics for moving all these people onto the ships without being detected still need to be figured out. The man who runs the port town is a crony for the demons and I assume his power is largely symbolic so manipulating him wont have much effect if the demon presence in the town is heavy enough. It's easily the largest hurdle from where I can see. If anyone has a suggestion I'm more than willing to listen. Though I've been musing over it myself. Ideally the sooner we can be prepared and make the move the better, but I have something in the area I need to investigate first."

Elyse nodded though had nothing more to say. Looking around the rest too had no more questions.

Noting that nobody had anything else to say, Hanako moved on to the next topic. "Okay, so next order of business. In an effort to make the transition a little easier for when we leave, I'd like for those of you that are staying to start exercising a little more autonomy. More or less, you've got a basic outline of the way I'd like things to go while I'm here and once I'm gone you'll be back to answering to Sofia so beyond that it's really out of my hands. Essentially there are some things I'd like to do before we leave the country but I can't really do them if I continue to micromanage every time someone is coming to the estate."

She turned to Aldric. "You pretty much know how things are supposed to be going Aldric, make everything look like business as usual but slowing down as if you were planning to retire. I'm sure news of the partnership with Sofia has already spread among the nobles so it shouldn't look too odd that you're stepping back to focus on... whatever it is that Klein would be doing in his spare time. My comment before about trying to avoid taking on too many additional people still stands, but get anyone that is directly brought to the estate. It would be unsavory to me to leave anyone I know about left in bondage."

She clapped her hands together as if to signify she was finished. "That's pretty much it I guess. It would be good if you could keep the finer details of the plan from spreading out to the people living here, as the less details people know the less likely we are to be discovered. Do start getting people prepped for the move though, drills on packing up quickly or whatever. I'll make a more detailed announcement once I have the logistics for moving everyone to the ships figured out, and I'll make a decision on surrendering Klein's businesses to Sofia within the next few days."

She paused a moment before adding one last comment. "Oh, and if there are any skilled tailors here at the estate I have a project for them so if you could direct me their way, or send them to meet with me that would be great. That's it for real this time. If you've got any additional questions or concerns or even new ideas please don't hesitate to come find me. Uhh... Dismissed... I guess."

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 11 - 8 PM

Aldric had nodded as you spoke and mentioned him. Soon enough with the meeting adjourned, the people began to move themselves out. As the people were out the two doors, Carol approached you.

"Heyoo Ms. Hanako..." She started. "Working at the Birkensen company I picked up a couple of skills apart from the magecraft I was taught. I can tailor... I've been making some clothes for everyone on my spare time when I'm not teaching the magic energy transfer spell to my students here."

Amarille, the elven princess heard and spoke up as well.

"I can attest to it. Ever since Carol has came here, she's been helping me make the clothing much of the ex-slaves are wearing. There are a few others with talent over seamstry, but Carol works faster than the rest. I'm ashamed to say that I think she excels at it far more than I do."

"Oh no Ms. Lassetaure, you are still much better than I am. I'm not as graceful as you at all."

"Fantastic, I was hoping one of you would be able to help me with this, but having the two of you work together is even better!" Hanako said with a smile. "I was thinking, that since I'm going to be meeting with Isikawan dignitaries in the near future I should at least look the part of a leader. To that end, I'm gonna need a uniform. I've got some ideas, but I'm not much of a tailor so I can only show you a rough drawing and let you take my measurements. Are you free to do that today?"

"We can take your measurements now if you'd like!" Carol suggested as she excitedly started for the door.

"Look at her go..." Amarille said as she watched the girl disappear out of the room, probably to get some sort of measuring equipment. Amarille, much more composed than her human counterpart smiled in response towards you. "Well, Frau Hero, if you have sketches, that would make it easier. What do you have in mind?"

Hanako produced a folded sheet of paper from one of her pockets and unfolded it to reveal the sketch. "It needs to be made of white material, and it should be able to either fit some leather underneath it or have some additional light armor put on over it without losing its shape. Presumably at some point I might have to do a little fighting while wearing it so just plain clothing wont quite due. If that's not too much that is. Oh! If you can manage to make the reverse of this cape another color like red or something that would be great too. Hopefully it makes enough of a statement to lend me some credibility when we're looking for a place to settle..."

"It's... Fascinating..." Amarille said as she examined the piece of paper. "I'll bring this over with Carol. I think there's enough material here to make it. We should be able to finish a prototype by the end of the tomorrow. Knowing Carol, she'll probably want to work on it all night, but I'll be sure to make sure she gets some rest too."

Hanako smiled at Amarille's enthusiasm and chuckled a little as she spoke. "Take your time, I won't need it until I'm haggling with dignitaries."

[info]Hanako is gonna wait around for Carol to come back and get measurements taken, then will try and squeeze in some extra training (forced)

Forced Training: Light Armor Proficiency
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 11 + 7, total 18[/blockquote]
CON check:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+4 : 7 + 4, total 11[/blockquote][/info]

QuoteTrainings:
Light Armor Proficiency: 3/8

Since this took place earlier, you would actually be Fatigued when you started this last scene. You could technically do another set of Forced Training, til 11 PM. If you are, roll another Training check and CON check. You will suffer a -2 to your next Training check being Fatigued however. I'll add that in myself so roll normally.

Carol eventually came back, and together with Amarille, took all of your measurements. Both Amarille and Carol were well-endowed, but neither of them commented.

Once Carol and Amarille left, the strangest thing happened. Out of the blue, without any trigger what-so-ever you were bombarded with a string of notifications.

[okay]You have gained『Create Golem』
You have gained a new title『Golem Master』
You have gained +4 CON
You have gained +4 MAG
You have gained a new title『Spellcasting Slaver』
You have gained +2 MAG
You have gained a new title 『Homunculus Master』
You have gained +2 MAG[/okay]At the same time, more knowledge was somehow pumped into you, in the same way as when you were first summoned into the world. You knew about something called contractual magicka, and unlike before where you only had a vague idea of how they worked. You felt like, if you wanted, you could cast some sort of magic related with binding people, or making contracts, or a magic that activates on 'agreement'.

While being measured Hanako was fairly certain one of the two might have groped her a little, but it was probably her imagination. Moments after they left, her vision was suddenly filled with a burst of new notifications accompanied by a flood of previously unknown knowledge. She had to take a moment to steady herself on the back of a chair, since the pop ups were so surprising.

Nhh... what's all this then?

Of particular note was (what she assumed to be) the newly acquired ability "Create Golem".

"That's interesting..." she mused quietly. Clearly whatever else she had planned for the day needed to be put on hold to play with this. She decided to head out into the garden for a little privacy while she explored the new skill.

You headed out towards the garden. There were some soldiers keeping watch both at the door and at the outer gate. The ones at the door nodded to you and saluted as you passed by them. Due to it roughly being around fall, the sun had already set perhaps an hour ago. There was still an orange hue to the skies, but you knew it would get dark soon as well.

QuoteThere are multiple private places in the garden. The most private might be the gazebo at the center of the hedge maze. But there are also benches, other tables, and anything else a well-maintained and expensive garden/yard could have. Choose a location, or describe it.

"Hrm... I think maybe the center of the hedge maze is my best bet for privacy..." Hanko pondered out loud, and then set off into the maze at a brisk pace, knowing the fading evening light was nearing its end.

Once she had reached her destination, she glanced around to make certain no one else was near.

Okay... so from my experience these things seem to activate based on if I'm thinking about them... sooo....

She concentrated for a moment, forming an image in her mind of a golem being created. Then, shifted her thoughts over to the inexplicable knowledge that she could create a specific kind of golem, namely a homunculus. Considering the thing she would create needed to be humanoid, she settled on a shape she was familiar with. Her own.

"I hope this doesn't cost me an arm and a leg..." she snarked to herself while attempting to activate the ability.

As you concentrated and thought about making a homunculus fashioned after yourself, you watched in fascination as parts of the earth and ground where you were initiating the attempt started to disappear, and get raised up in a mass of dirt. The surrounding plants seemed to darken as well, and you watched as liquid was pulled from them to mix into the mass. The air started to visibly thicken at the area too, creating something almost akin to dry ice. At that same time, a glowing stream from you started to mix into the mixture. You felt yourself get tired as well, and you realized that it must have been mana. The mana itself seemed to crystallize and turn into other sorts of material. Some turned into more liquid. Some into other minerals. Next the liquid started to take on a red-hue, and soon enough the pulpy mass that started to look more like flesh continued to grow and grow. The entire process didn't take long, it was perhaps a quarter of a minute at the very most, but soon enough an exact replica of you was created. She was facing towards you, her eyes were blank and devoid of emotion. She was also completely naked. Apart from that, she looked just as you looked when you were summoned in Erato's domain. Free from any scars or blemishes. She was decently fit too. In some ways, it was a perfect body.

In the dark moonlit garden, there continued a slight stream of glowing mana coming from you and enveloping the homunuclus you created.

It was evening so it would make sense you were tired, but you felt much more drained than usual. You were drowsy.

"Fascinating..." Hanako said, and brought a hand to her chin in a pensive gesture. She walked over to her duplicate and looked it over from head to toe. It was a pretty exact copy. She poked the copy's skin on it's arm to see if it felt real as well. "Can you speak?" she asked.

When you poked it, it felt real. You even managed to get a bit of warmth from the action. It was definitely flesh. After you had asked if it could speak, it didn't respond, but continued to stand still looking straight ahead at nothing in particular.

"Damn, it's actually like... a real human body." she said, and then looked around at the garden where some of the plants had dried up from what she assumed was the homunculus using the water inside them to form body fluids.

"I wonder if I can specify where the material comes from... or if I should bring like... reagents to use in a pinch. I guess I should see how badly this drains me too. I'm pretty tired."

Hanako looked off into the middle distance. "Status."

[okay]Hanako Okita
Homunculus Master
Level 15

Condition: Uninjured, Sleepy

HP: 34/34
MP: 1/46
STR: 18
DEX: 22
CON: 22
INT: 18
WIS: 12
CHA: 20
MAG: 31

Blessings: Quick Learner, Mana Sensitivity, Translate Languages, Personal Status, Item Speaker, Slavemancer, Create Golem[/okay]

"Oh damn, looks like I won't be attempting this again for a while." Hanako said to herself, noting that the number that indicated her mana resources.

Now that she was alone and thinking about it, Hanako decided to try something she had been wondering about for a while now. If she could see her own "stats" represented as numbers, which to be fair was a very game like concept, shouldn't she be able to see information about people in her "party"? This of course assumed that those kinds of rules applied to this world, and since she had the opportunity to check she figured there was nothing to be lost from the effort.

"Uhhh... Party status?" she said tentatively, expecting nothing to happen.

The moment you spoke those words, a new notification appeared.

[okay]Ability not yet unlocked.[/okay]The homunculus you had created continued to stand still and look at nothing in particular. Though, from the slight movements of its body, you knew she or it was breathing.

That's interesting.

Knowing that it was indeed a feature, but not something she had unlocked yet was useful information. That begged the question on how one went about unlocking additional features of the "status window".

Is it tied to my 'level'? Hanako wondered. Well, I might as well say a few dumb other things and see what happens since I've got the time...

"Uhhh... Strategy guide? Manual?" she said aloud, feeling silly.

When you spoke those words, nothing happened.

"Figures." she said with a shrug. Of course it wouldn't be that easy. Actually, after spending all so much time here, if it had worked she probably would have felt like an idiot...

"Well, back to the matter at hand... Golem-chan, please raise your right hand above your head." Hanako asked the duplicate of herself. It may have only been a magical facsimile of herself, but it felt rude to simply boss the thing around.

Rather than stating a question, the moment you willed that you wanted the golem to do something, she obeyed. The life-like golem raised her right hand above her head.

"Mmmm... I see, I see." Hanako said, and rubbed a finger across her lips in thought. "She, it... whatever, reacted before I even finished speaking so I guess I don't need to give orders out loud."

She mentally gave a command for the golem to imitate her and struck a pose like Sailor Moon. "In the name of the moon, I'll punish you!"

The golem proceeded to strike the pose. And this time she actually spoke as well.

"In the name of the moon, I'll punish you!" She said it in the same voice inflection as you would have expected too, the same amount of enthusiasm you would have expected to see if Sailor Moon was an actual person. Though, the fact that the girl looked just like you and was completely naked gave the entire scene an almost surreal feeling.

"Fuck that's really embarrassing." Hanako said, dropping the pose. "I should have brought some clothes out here for you. Though I guess my track jacket is long enough to cover up below the waist."

She mentally ordered the golem to stop imitating her and then removed her jacket, the chill of the dusk air made the fine hairs on her arms prick up. "I wonder if you get cold... Here go ahead and put this on, and make sure you pull it low enough to cover up down there... Can't have the rank and file seeing my downstairs..." She said, walking over to hand her doppelganger the garment.

You noticed that the golem really did not have a mind of it's own at all, and apart from automatic functions like breathing, interacting with it made you realize it needed continual instruction. Even as you handed the garment towards it, it didn't move to grab it until you willed it to. Even instructions such as 'putting the jacket on', it didn't seem to fully understand until you started to will it grab the jacket, put her arms into the correct places, zip it up, and then lower it down.

"Man this is a lot of effort. I guess after a while I'l have it down as second nature though... Come along then Golem-chan."

Hanako willed the golem to follow after her as she made her way back through the labyrinth. When she drew closer to the mansion the guards posted outside that night shared a look of confused alarm until she defused the situation with a casual wave and a smile.

"Everything's normal gentlemen, nothing to see here. Please refrain from staring at places you shouldn't..."

Hanako, Golem-chan in tow walked through the mansion, drawing more confused looks. She just continued to move along waving away the concern of anyone that they passed. Eventually the odd pair arrived at Hanako's bedroom door, which she pushed open just enough to fit her upper half through to peer in.

"Girls, girls!" she began excitedly. "Look what I can do!"

She pushed the door open the rest of the way and strode inside, willing her copy to follow in behind her.

"Say hello Go'chin!" she said comically, with a mischievous smile while willing the homunculous to wave and say "hello".

The homunculus obeyed, both waving, and saying "hello". Without any guidance on their own vocal inflections, the golem would have used a monotone and dull voice as it spoke, following the instructions given to her.

"H-Hanako?" Trudy asked, her eyes shifting between you and the homunculus. Minette was no doubt just as surprised as Trudy was.

"Oh...? There's two of you?" Minette blinked. "... One for each?"

"Hah! You wish." Hanako said with a laugh. "After our meeting this afternoon I apparently gained a new ability, or something to that effect. Not that I understand how that happens."

She sighed a little at her own lack of knowledge regarding the way her "blessings" worked, then clapped an arm around the other "Hanako's" shoulder. "Evidently I can summon golems of some kind or another. This particular one is... a homunculus. If my similarly mysterious knowledge on the subject is to be believed. Nearly passed out in the garden making her. Probably wont be able to do it again safely, think I got a little lucky this time."

"She's fully functional, and anatomically correct!" Hanako withdrew her arm and then made a flourish with both hands in the general direction of the golem, while quoting a popular science fiction TV show from America. "Not much for words though, or actions really. I have to tell her to do things mentally or she just kind of stands there. I could probably make her look like anyone if I really wanted to though, so once I get a handle on it I imagine it will be pretty useful."

"That is... fascinating..." Minette said curiously. She then stood up and walked towards you and the homunculus, circling the other "Hanako", she examined her closely. "Oh... she is... just like you... Exactly like you... I can tell from the proportions..." Minette's eyes looked towards you. "Out of curiosity... how 'functional' is she?"

"I suppose that depends on how you define 'functional'." Hanako replied, keenly aware that Minette's question was probably loaded with lewd subtext. "If I don't tell her what to do she just stands there staring straight ahead, doesn't react to anything either. Near as I can tell she's an exact flesh and blood copy of me. Probably a little more fit actually." She poked her own belly as if checking to see if she was more flabby than usual.

"What exactly did you have in mind?"

"No~othing~" Minette said teasingly as she smiled at you. "The real one is always better..." After a moment of staring admiringly at you, Minette then looked back towards the golem. "There are... a lot of things I want to test..." She paused again. "Normal tests..." She corrected, knowing full well what you were probably thinking. "If she eats... if she can fight... if she has mana and magic... Does she learn? Does she feel pain? Can she be... sad... or happy..?"

"What are we... going to call it? Umm... her I mean."

"I was calling her Golem-chan earlier, for lack of a better name. Or Go'chin for short, not exactly the best name." Hanako closed the door to the room to dissuade anyone else from peeking in and took an observational stance next to "Go'chin"

"I honestly don't really know off the top of my head. I tried to talk to her when I first summoned her but she didn't respond. Pretty much I have to make her do things, kind of like a puppet almost. There's like a thread of mana that connects us too. Lemme tell her to take a seat I guess, I feel bad making her stand around."

Hanako willed the "girl" to go take a seat on the edge of the bed.

"Let me uhh... see if I can 'remember' any important info about this. Sometimes when I think about the things I can do, I can sort of 'know' things that I didn't think I knew. If that makes sense."

She paused a moment to think if she could 'recall' anything about golems and homunculi, particularly any answers to Minette's questions.

[info]Requested rolls:

Knowledge: Slavery
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+11 : 17 + 11, total 28[/blockquote]

Knowledge: History
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 16 + 8, total 24[/blockquote]

Knowledge: Anatomy
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+12 : 8 + 12, total 20[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Knowledge (slavery): 28, Knowledge (history): 24, Knowledge (anatomy)
The knowledge in your head about slavery managed to bring you some of the answers. Due to golems typically being subservient, it must have been good enough for the 'slavemancer' blessing to include information about them too. From this you knew that golems, as long as they have the capability to do so, could feel pain. In this particular case, because of the fact Go'chin was made to resemble a human, and was indeed, as far as you can tell, to be as human as possible, it was more than likely that this golem could feel the same physical stimuli as humans do. That could include anything from pain to pleasure. The fact she was based on a human as well, meant that she was capable of eating. By this reasoning, if Go'Chin did resemble a human anatomically, down to the organs, such as even the brain itself, then it would be capable of learning too, and eventually would be able to feel emotions.

However, there was the unknown of what else the 'Create Golem' blessing could impart on the created homunculus, or even more regular golems. Indeed if you had created a homunculus that was identical to a human in every way, there was a chance that the power behind Create Golem actually functioned more like 'Slavemancer', as a simple way of repressing a creature's mind, in this case, the homunculus, to ever develop any kind of sentience.

As for whether or not they had mana or magic, even going through your memories of the origin of 'golem' in your own world, you weren't able to tell. As far as you knew, there was no magic in your own world at all. How magic itself worked here in the New World was something you weren't quite familiar with.[/info]

Hanako relayed all the information she managed to 'remember' to Minette. "Well, there you have it" she said finally. "It's a little weird to think about, but I think I might have accidentally created a person." The concept was, truthfully, a little frightening. It was a big responsibility, creating a life, and the possibility that Go'chin could be sapient made Hanako uncomfortable. It wasn't because of the implication that she could have just literally created her own personal "Eve", but more that she might currently be holding the creature's mind thrall the way she did to anyone else, only perhaps more strongly.

"I don't really know what to make of this to be honest. I feel like I've wandered into an ethical quagmire." she walked over to the bed and gently rand her fingers through "her" hair. No, not "hers" but "Go'chin's", if that was in fact the name she would settle on. She was still on the fence about that.

"Thoughts?" she asked finally.

"It's hard... To me, I see a person... Even though I know she was just created, and looks just like you, too. Even if she can't feel pain, or have emotions, or anything like that, I'm not sure if I could think of her just as a 'thing'."

"Oh...? It is fascinating to me... But... some of the more powerful mages in history have created things called 'elementals'.... Does... Go'chin disappear after some time? Elementals are treated like tools... to be created for a task and simply vanish away... But Go'chin looks just like a person... But is she? I think... with her life... if it can be called life, being created, it wouldn't be... fair... to have her disappear..." Minette shook her head.

"Well, how about we just have her around for a bit, and see how people react, and how things end up as? These kinds of questions are deep and it's not something we can really just answer right now... But... she is your creation too, so in the end it falls to you to choose." Trudy patted the bed. "The bed is starting to get really tight if we add a fourth person... I could... have a bed sent up here if you'd like?"

"Ah, yeah. Might as well have one sent up. I'd rather she stick around as well. It would be... unsavory, to treat her like an object. I need to spend some time trying to figure out if I can relinquish control over her, I'm not really sure if its possible. Need to consider a proper name too, I think."

The entire situation was bizarre and a little unsettling. Too many questions and not enough answers. What if Hanako ran out of mana? Would the girl still exist, or would she dissolve into a pile of the dirt she was constructed from?

"I guess we'll see how things turn out in the morning. Probably need to find some clothes for her too."

Both Trudy and Minette nodded. Trudy had quickly come out and requested help from the soldiers to bring a mattress, but word had already spread through most of the estate of the 'second and half naked hero', thusly a lot of the other soldiers already understood why Trudy would be requesting a new bed. Due to the interesting subject of it all, and hoping to get a closer glimpse at the oddity which was the second hero, many of the soldiers volunteered to help, by the end of it, not only was an entire bed setup for her. They went ahead and moved in a new table and corner desk, along with plenty of extra pillows and bed sheets. By the time it was done, it was getting late, and with the evening rolling by, the soldiers had each saluted and left to their own quarters and evening rituals.

Soon enough Trudy and Minette changed into their pajamas, while a simple pair was left for Go'chin, the same kind that the rest of the soldiers used. Like before you had to will her to change out of her current clothing. However, once it came to putting on the shirt at least, it seemed as if it willing her to do that action wasn't as difficult. Even though you had to still put in the will for her to get into the shirt, there were a couple of her movements that Go'chin seemed to do on her own in order to fulfil the task. However, having her go into bed, pulling up the covers, and then closing her eyes was yet another task that you had to will her to do. Even though there were no spoken commands, and can be done mentally, it almost felt like taking care of someone.

QuoteIf you have other actions feel free to state them, otherwise, state the next day's plans on your end.

After putting her doppelganger to bed and willing her to sleep, Hanako settled into bed herself. Laying between Trudy and Minette she folded her arms behind her head and started at the ceiling for a while lost in thought. The fact that the golem was more "capable" of putting on a shirt than she had before suggested strongly that she was capable of learning and adapting to situations. It was unclear if it was a sign of sapience, but the part of Hanako's human brain that formed attachments to living things had already made the determination that her copy was "real" in her own right, albeit a special case.

"Jitsuko" she said quietly, more to herself than anyone in particular. "Her name is Jitsuko"

[info]Hanako is gonna try to get up around the same time as Trudy and Minette, and will go eat breakfast with them, her golem in tow.[/info]

Location: Klein's Estate - Breakfast
Date: Day 12 - 7 AM

Everyone woke up near the same time, and soon enough the four of you had prepared for the day. That morning when you willed the homunculus to wake up, there wasn't any visible reactions from her. It was when you willed her to open her eyes that she finally moved. You had her get up and follow you, though it was relatively manual, almost like a puppet you had to control each of her movements. She seemed to be able to do some movements well though such as walking. The first time you had her attempt to walk the night before it was relatively manual, though this time simply willing her to move she walked fine.

Soon enough you made your way to the kitchen for breakfast, and it was a usual schedule for the soldiers to prepare something in the morning, so there was already some eggs and a simple porridge that were prepared. Most of the those who weren't soldiers didn't wake up early, though, Kari seemed to be at the common dining table already, sipping away at tea.

"I hath heard that thou hath... a double. Mine eyes don't deceive what I see..." Kari said when you and your group walked in with food in hand. Kari had her eyes on the homunculus. "What is she?"

QuoteColor change for Kari

Hanako shoveled some food into her mouth while mentally commanding Jitsuko to eat. It was challenging, but oddly enough after making the girl do something once, it became easier to make her do it again.

"A homonculus, technically." she replied to Kari after swallowing. "However, I've sort of been coming to the conclusion that it might be more appropriate to look at her as a real person. You can call her Jitsuko."

"Jitsuko... Hmm... Interesting. Tis part of thy heroic blessing? A similar of use to mine own summons. But thy Jitsuko, tis much more fair to look at."

It was around that time that other soldiers had started to appear. Many of their own curiosity was centered around Jitsuko. They were all whispering to each other, along with eyeing the new homunculus, though, many of them tried not to make it too obvious. With an estate so small, with hardly much in the way of entertainment, talking about every small happening had become more of the norm, especially with Klein no longer being around. Compared to how it was a week ago, the atmosphere of the estate had definitely changed. People had been talking, laughing, and enjoying life as they could.

"Now, what is that Akime?" You heard Elyse's voice down the hallway. Akime's voice followed after.

"Painting."

"Good. And this?"

"Table."

"And over there, what is the hero sitting on?"

The two were close enough that you managed to easily see them. There was a long pause this time. Finally Akime spoke. "... Chair."

"In Refedorian." There was a groan. "I don't know."

There was another pause. "That means... you don't know? Well, it's a chair."

"Chair." Akime repeated. "Correct." Elyse said, a slight smile on her face.


It was then that Carol appeared. "Hero Hanako! I did it! Oh umm... excuse me Ms. Dietriche... W-whoa!" Carol had been running, managing to avoid Elyse and Akime, but had crashed into a table, crashing the vase that was on top of it. Akime, who was nearest to it, managed to catch it deftly, and lower the vase down, though Carol was unceremoniously on the floor. She had a pile of cloth in her hands, but she seemed to put her best effort in protecting it. Even though she looked dreadfully tired, she had a grin on her face.

"I did it!" She exclaimed one more time.

"Ah, yeah I suppose. Learned I could do it after the meeting yesterday. I think I'm able to create simpler golems but I kind of went straight for the most complex thing right off the bat."

Soon enough the sounds of Elyse and Akime's lessons drew near and were almost immediately followed by Carol barreling into the room.

Quote"I did it!"

"Woah! Nice work, did you... stay up all night on this? Thank you for your hard work!" she said, patting Carol's head lightly and taking the completed uniform from her. "If you'll all excuse me for a minute, I'll be right back."

She went quickly from the kitchen and found someplace she could change in private then did so. After taking a minute to tug and straighten everything on the garment into place she walked back into the kitchen attempting to project an authoritative air to match the exceptionally tailored uniform.

"Well, how's that?"

[spoiler](https://i.ibb.co/kMBWZXw/Hanako-Uniform-Small.png)[/spoiler]

"Amarille helped once you gave us the design. We got to gathering the materials, measuring, and testing on the dress form with some simple mockups. We were supposed to finish it today... But I couldn't sleep thinking about it. Amarille told me to head to sleep, but once I set my sights on something, it has to be done!"


"That looks wonderful on you Hanako."

"Oh... I'd love to wrap my arms around you while you wore that..."

"Tis a splendid look, hero."

"You look better than I imagined!"

"Truly fitting of a warrior Okita-san."

Lastly, Elyse Dietriche nodded approvingly.

Hanako tested her range of motion in the new outfit, it fit perfectly, probably more than any other article of clothing she had ever worn before.

"Outstanding work, really. Thank you for working so hard on it." Hanako said with a smile. "Should look pretty presentable when we head overseas, not to mention having a more dignified looking leader should inspire confidence and boost morale among people here."

The last bit was an assumption, she had read something somewhere about needing to look the part to lead people but it might have actually been from a fiction novel.

"You are correct. Even with the ability to lead, to take command of soldiers, and being a hero, appearance itself can play a lasting role on your men. Stand resolutely in your decisions, inspire confidence in your men around you, being the part of a hero is looking like one as well. And in this you are succeeding." Elyse commented.

It was then that Minette spoke, who by now had finished her small breakfast. As usual, she spoke in her calm, steady, and relaxed pace. "I'll be reviewing with Aldric one more time... He... has been very quick about catching up to what Klein knew... Today... is an important day."

Elyse nodded. "We have a meeting with the Flensberg Construction Company in a few hours. One of their representatives will be here. I'll be sure to let every inhabitant know to stick to their rooms, except for the individuals who will be maintaining the 'facade'. Also, Frau Hero, I'd like to have this time to remind you of the armored carriage we have. One of the contacts from the Birkensen Trading Company had told me that they're finished with preparing everything, and can either bring it to our estate here, or have it setup somewhere else. We can attempt to disguise it if we are moving it around in a finished form, though, it won't hold well to scrutiny. Apart from that, we have a few more from the Birkensen Trading Company arriving later today. Gardeners, and a few more soldiers. They've all been briefed, and are trusted employees of Frau Sofia's company."

"If you think he's ready, today might be a good day to let him operate without me in the room. The basic guidelines have already been discussed so it's probably about time to see how things go. Regarding the armored carriage, if it's not too difficult to move disassembled, it might be a good idea to move it here that way, and transport it to the boats in the same fashion. Out of curiosity, how is it moved when assembled? Is it drawn by horses or some kind of steam or combustion engine?"

By the time she finished the question, she had already assumed the answer would actually be "magic" but it was worth knowing anyway for future reference, the level of technology in Refedora was still somewhat of a puzzle to her. They dressed like, and lived in early 20th century style pseudo Germanic clothing and homes but handheld firearms were quite literally just invented. Hanako wondered idly if the existence of magic hampered the need for technological progression, it was a concept that wasn't frequently addressed in the fiction of Earth.

"I will let the company know to move it to our estate here then. Whenever we plan to head to the boat, that should be when we bring it with us as well. It would ensure less chances of being stolen if moved by itself to the docks. As for how it's moved when assembled, it is drawn by two horses due to the weight. As I recall, I remember seeing a prototype design making use of an engine powered by fire magic, and another using wind magic to propel it. There are likely some prototypes of these as well. However due to the drain of mana from the user, along with requiring a mage well-practiced in their craft for maintenance, the more conventional horse-drawn version had won out. However, with the discovery of the 'mana crystals' that now power some of these guns from the trading company, it is being re-visited again. If unskilled soldiers or even commoners can operate a magic-armored carriage without knowledge of magic, that in itself would be a great boon. Unfortunately for that project... the creation and testing of a more advanced rifle had been in development too, where I believe most of the effort is being placed in. I am to tell you that they've been testing a couple of prototypes, and all are promising. Hopefully in another few days they'll be ready, and Frau Leiningen would send us a few."

"Mmm. Interesting. I imagine the horses tire out fairly quickly pulling it. In my world we use engines that burn a refined form of oil to move vehicles like this. Terrible for the environment though, I imagine magic is probably cleaner. Anyway, that sounds like a good plan so we'll proceed with that."

She took a second to pick up a piece of bread from her plate and chewed it thoughtfully. "Alright, so Aldric is on his own today, Minette if you could attend the meeting as usual to make sure things are ironed out correctly that would be nice. I'll be up in my room planning out my trip to one of the mines during the meeting. I'll probably go there three days from now. If we have anything resembling a map of the tunnels or additional info about the site I'd like that taken up to my room. Other than that, its business as usual and you can send someone up to tell me when its okay to move around the estate again."

"Of course Hanako..." Minette said. "I'll drop the map off along with details of the site before I work with Aldric..."

"You have time Frau Hero, I believe the meeting will take place over lunch."

QuoteYou have a bit over 4 hours until the meeting when you need to hide. You could declare some Training time if you'd like before then, and state any other prep.

[info]Training Light Armor Proficiency:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 20 + 7, total 27[/blockquote][/info]

[info]When Hanako goes off to her room to hang out until the meeting is over, she'll bring Jitsuko with her and some food since she'll be hiding out during lunch. She'll probably take along some stuff to take notes as well.[/info]

[info]Training
Light Armor Proficiency: 5/8[/info]Soon enough you made it back to your room. Minette had dropped off a detailed map, along with notes of the site as well. Together with that, and the blank sheets of paper and pen, you had more than enough material to work with. Jitsuko stood silently and impassively at the room, waiting for instructions.

"You can go ahead and take a seat on the bed if you want." Hanako said to Jitsuko, knowing full well that what her double wanted currently didn't factor into the equation. She sent the mental command to have her sit, presumably in a comfortable position and then turned her attention to the map and the notes regarding the mining site.

QuoteIt'll take sometime to go through all the reading. Also feel free to do any testing with Jitsuko, or attempting some kind of self-study training. I have a map of the mines, though, not super presentable atm.

[info]Mining Site #2 Operations
The mining site was large enough for 3 companies to share mining operations on. Both Blueland Processing and Busch Metall along with the Klein company had workers at the sites. Mining Site #2, the one with the red 'X' that caught your attention had the Busch Metall company handle the oversight of it. That said, all three companies had a stake in its operations.

Klein Company at Mining Site #2
Slave Workers: 300
Slave Soldiers: 50

Blueland Processing
Slave Workers: 50
Slave Soldiers: 8
Hired Soldiers: 2

Busch Metall
Slave Workers: 150
Slave Soldiers: 40
Hired Soldiers: 10[/info][info]Mining Site #2 Layout
There were multiple levels of the mines, but it looked like Klein Company had sole rights for the deeper levels. There would have been more petition from the rest of the companies for access, but apparently the site itself was rich in various ores, and actually had mithril veins through it, which more than made the deal lucrative. There was around 1400 ft. of tracks just on the first level of the mines, this was where both Blueland Processing and Busch Metall had most of their operations. Klein Company held a small section on the first level, but had a lift that went further down to 4 more levels. There looked to be a mention of a 5th level, however, not much information was provided about the area. There were records of the 5th level being created, and tracks laid out, however, there was not much information. It felt to you as if the information was left out, or was simply never written and included.[/info]

Hanako flipped through the pages detailing the second mine site and made a few notes on a separate paper about things she found interesting. Particularly she was intrigued by the "missing" fifth level.

"That's probably where I'm going to want to go looking..." she said aloud to no-one in particular.

After a while, there was nothing new to be gleaned from the information she had and stacked the papers in a neat pile. She was unsure how long she had been looking them over and figured that since nobody had come by the meeting downstairs was still going on. Getting up from her seat she moved over to where Jitsuko had been sitting obediently on the bed.

"I wish you could just tell me how exactly it is you work..." Hanako commented to her silent copy and ran her fingers though the girl's dark hair.

"Status." she said after a minute, since she hadn't checked the window recently.

As expected, Jitsuko continued to stare straight ahead, not being given any sort of instructions.

[okay]Hanako Okita
Homunculus Master
Level 15

Condition: Uninjured, Refreshed

HP: 34/34
MP: 46/46
STR: 18
DEX: 22
CON: 22
INT: 22
WIS: 12
CHA: 16
MAG: 31

Blessings: Quick Learner, Mana Sensitivity, Translate All, Personal Status, Item Speaker, Slavemancer, Create Golem[/okay]

"Well, nothing new there I guess. Though it's good to know that my mana isn't being constantly drained by Jitsuko or something."

Hanako was unsure what to do with Jitsuko. There were so many questions and she couldn't come up with a way to find any answers. "You seem to be capable of learning, I guess. Given that it gets 'easier' for you to do things if I've already made you do them once before. Maybe tonight I'll just bite the bullet and see if I can make you more independent some way..."

She decided to do some experiments anyway, considering she had the time. She made a few simple flash cards, writing her own name and Jitsuko's as well as a few other simple words that might be useful to at least express a person's needs. Then she attempted to teach her how to read the cards and say what was on them through commands. Finally she tested the "lessons" by holding up the cards at random and asking the girl to read them back.

It took some trying, along with trial and error, but you eventually managed to get her to do what you wanted. It was a variety of steps that could indeed be considered learning, though, with it being so manual, it almost felt like programming it into her. At the very least you didn't have to say things vocally. For example, you wrote words on each of the flash cards, showed it to her, then told her to say it. At first she didn't know what the word was, so she remained silent. However, you then had her speak the word on the flash card, and that indeed worked fine. You later found a problem as it seemed like she had literally tied her new knowledge to the flash card itself, rather than the symbols of the characters, but you eventually managed to get around that as well by stating a command similar to "Repeat this word, when you see this character."

On one side, she managed to absorb each lesson fast. But on the flip side, it really did feel as if you were attempting to teach a computer how to do things. It was fairly manual and specific, and Jitsuko didn't necessarily link old learnings with new one until you specified what that link was.

By the end of it though. You could show Jitsuko a random flash card, and Jitsuko would respond and speak outloud the word. You eventually managed to get her to understand the characters as well. As you could write them on a new piece of paper, and Jitsuko would proceed on repeating the word.

QuoteI'll have you roll INT, a Training check, or any applicable Knowledge skill you might think would apply for this kind of teaching. It'll affect how long this process is.

[info]Requested roll, Training
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 17 + 7, total 24[/blockquote][/info]

"Man this is exhausting." Hanako said after a while. Though she was satisfied with the results of her experiment, the method by which she had accomplished the result was less than ideal. Though the knowledge that she had regarding Jitsuko indicated that she was capable of being a "person", no amount of flash cards and "programming" would actually make her into a sapient individual. Was it because she lacked a "soul"? Or to put it in less theological terms: did she simply lack free will? More to the point, was that something that could be given or did one need to be created with it? The questions set Hanako's head spinning so she decided to take a break and eat some of the food she had brought up earlier, sharing it with Jitsuko.

[info]After eating, Hanako will make an attempt at teaching Jitsuko how to write. Provided there is time.[/info]

[info]Teaching Craft (Writing)
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 20 + 7, total 27[/blockquote][/info]

[okay]You have gained a new title 『Teacher of Golems』
You have gained +1 WIS
You have gained a new title 『Trainer』
You have gained +1 WIS[/okay]

QuoteI'll have to make Language (?) being a prerequisite first. Craft (Writing) is a step after language mastery of stringing a story/writing together into something that can be considered a product/craft. You can specify if you're attempting to teach her Japanese, English, or Refedorian. Isikawan and New Felothian are only available if you are for sure you have some writing on hand using those languages. You can probably teach Refedorian just fine even with the auto-translation of your Translate Languages blessing.

I'll be treating both rolls above as Expedited Training (DC 19) for 4 hours total, with a total of +3 Successes on whichever language you pick.

---

Location: Klein's Estate - Hanako's Room
Date: Day 12 - 4 PM

Around 4 PM, you heard a knock on your door. It was Trudy, as she cracked the door open and peeked in a moment later.

"Hanako! And... Jitsuko now?" Trudy began. "Good news! Looks like the meeting went by well. All the time Minette had been spending with Aldric is paying of. But I'll let Aldric here explain." Trudy then opened the door to the room, and beckoned Aldric to come in. When the large man came in, he had a grin on his face. He nodded his head towards you and Jitsuko.

"It took some trying, but we managed to convince the representative of our slight change of plans on refocusing our efforts into a location nearer the docks. As it stands, we're on track on having a series of lumberyards and housing to be created a short distance away from where we'll set off with the boats that Sofia provided. I opted to have the construction start the moment the rest of the construction company gets word. In a few weeks we'll have enough housing units there for plenty of our workers."

"Ah! Outstanding news! Very good work, today. I mean it. This is going to make moving so much easier." Hanako exclaimed with a grin. "We'll need to be more cautious than ever as we move forward, but this is a great day!"

Hanako stood and shook Aldric's hand. "I had faith in you and it was well rewarded my friend."

I'll need to reward Minette for her diligence some way... she thought, wondering what might make an appropriate reward.

Aldric smiled happily.

"Oh no. Thank you hero Hanako... I'm realizing that business isn't as daunting and hard as I thought it was... I still have a lot to learn of course, but I feel like I'm genuinely doing something worthwhile here. I was down on my luck before Frau Sofia Leiningen contacted me a few weeks ago. I wasn't expecting much of course, since the demons now rule Refedoria. But it sure beat doing nothing all day and using up what little savings I had left. I thought this was just some under-the-table shady work that would get me killed, and well, I still might be killed!" He laughed, despite himself. "Around 25 years ago I considered joining the military... I didn't in the end and pursued acting instead. But doing something for the rest of the country, helping the hero, fighting back against the demons in the way that I can with my own hands and my own power... That's something else. And I never thought I would have been able to do anything like this before in my life."

"I'm the one who should be thanking you. And I don't think it's just me either, you can tell when you talk with everyone during lunch or dinner, that we're all hopeful." He saluted you in the same way the soldiers did. It was strangely funny to see seeing the fat man act like a soldier. He stared ahead too in the same way that the soldiers did. Trudy had a gentle smile on her face as she looked at Aldric, but a moment later she glanced towards you, admiration in her eyes, and indeed confirming Aldric's words; there was hope.

Hanako had to admit to herself that Aldric's comments and Trudy's admiration were deeply moving. In such a short amount of time she had come to represent something to these people, which was more than she had ever accomplished before. Even if they were still weeks away from making good their escape, by just being herself she had managed to give the gift of hope. She silently prayed that the trust they had given wasn't misplaced.

"I'll do my best not to let you down." she said with a serious look on her face. "At any rate, there's always more work to get done, so I won't keep you. Plus I really need to figure out what's going on with this situation." she gestured behind her to Jitsuko.

[info]Specifying that the language I was teaching Jitsuko to write in was Japanese.[/info]

"Oh of course, hero Hanako." Aldric stammered. He bowed his head in his clumsy way, and then proceeded to head out of the room.

"Did you find out anything about her? Jistuko?" Trudy asked once Aldric had left the room. "I've been thinking a lot about her since last night... And you know how you asked if it was an ethical question about creating a person? Well... people do it all the time too... Having children I mean. You created Jitsuko, and even if it's not quite the same, that kinda makes you the mother right?" Trudy asked as she strode up to you and Jitsuko. Trudy began to play with Jitsuko's hair as well.

"But you know, she'll have Minette and I too, and everyone else in the estate. If she can be thought of as your child, then I guess... I'm like an aunt?" She asked. She reached out for your hand then, holding it in hers. "Or maybe like... another mom?" She suggested, blushing a bit.

Quote"Or maybe like... another mom?"

"Hahaha maybe" Hanako replied with a smile. "Though it might be a little weird to refer to my exact copy as a daughter. Maybe little sister is more appropriate. Either way, I've pretty much confirmed that shes capable of 'learning'. Though I don't really know if its the same kind of thing that you or I do when we use that word. It's more like programming a computer than anything else."

Anticipating Trudy's confusion with the unfamiliar words Hanako snapped her fingers while trying to come up with a more appropriate analogy.

"Or uhh... Well, I guess there really isn't a close enough analogue in this world is there... I guess it's more like, she can repeat things and form associations between ideas and objects but I don't think that in her current state she would be able to form her own ideas or concepts. She seems to be missing that... spark? The thing that makes a person a person, if you get what I'm saying. I'm not certain if that's something that she can gain on her own, or if its something she already has that's being suppressed by the magic that went into creating her."

Hanako sat down on the bed and leaned forward pensively. "I guess what I'm saying is, its similar to when I give someone a 'command'. I'm curious if that's something that I can dispel without undoing the magic that made her."

Trudy cocked her head to the side in confusion. "I don't really get it... But I mean... whether or not someone can learn, does that really make any person less if they can't?" Trudy sat down too, though she made space for Jitsuko between herself and you. Trudy proceed to pat the bed to gesture towards Jitsuko to sit down, but frowned when she realized that the homunculus didn't really move on her own.

"But she can kinda learn right? Like... when you teach her, what exactly do you do?"

Hanako went ahead and gave a quick mental command to tell Jitsuko to sit down between them.

"It's not so much about being able to learn, as it is the thing inside a person that drives them to do things of their own volition as well as make the connections between thoughts. It's sort of a philosophical question about if she has a soul... for lack of a better word. It's not like humans really know if such a thing exists anyway. People from my world have been discussing that question since the dawn of time and I don't think anyone really has a concrete answer for it, without making some huge assumptions."

Hanako sighed a little, resigned to her ignorance.

"Basically when I was trying to teach her some vocabulary I'd show her the word written down, make her say it by way of command, then have to manually connect the concept of the word to the characters that represented it on the paper. Eventually she could be shown a word at random and when told to just 'read the card' she would be able to say what was written on it. Which I suppose counts as learning. I just don't know if she would be able to do that kind of thing without me manually making the connections for her."

Once Jitsuko sat down, Trudy continued. "I see... So she can learn... It just takes a lot more work to actually learn something. Does she only listen to you?" Trudy asked. "Actually... does she even understand what I'm saying?"

QuoteAlso if you have anymore actions, feel free to call them out.

"I couldn't even begin to guess if she understands, and as far as I'm aware she'll only listen to me. Even then, I don't have to speak to get her to do something. I just think it, and she does it."

Hanako shrugged. "At some point I'm sure it will all get figured out... probably. At any rate, I need to think up a suitable little reward for Minette's diligence helping out Aldric the past few days. Any thoughts?"

[info]Whenever this conversation is over, Hanako will go off and do some light armor training. Anywhere Hanako goes throughout the house, it can just be assumed that Jitsuko is gonna follow after. Whenever appropriate, Hanako will get some dinner.[/info]

[info]Training, Light Armor Prof.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 19 + 8, total 27[/blockquote][/info]

"A reward for Minette?" She thought about it for a moment. "Maybe another pretty pair of... well... undergarments? I'm not sure if she means to do it, or if she just happens to forget, but you know how she always goes out and about without pants or skirt sometimes. Though, she at least puts them on when there's important things going on."

---

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 12 - 8 PM

You spend more time training in the light armor. It mainly consisted of moving around in it, and trying to get a better feel of it in general. You had dinner as well during then, having Jitsuko eat, along with the company of both Minette and Trudy. Once dinner was over, Minette excused herself to help continue tutoring Aldric on business practice and management, along with continuing to drill him on Klein's assets. Minette mentioned to you that a slaver was coming by early tomorrow morning as well, so she wanted to ensure Aldric was prepared for it. Soon enough it was around 8 PM again.

QuoteTraining
Light armor proficiency: 6/8

"Mmmm... not a bad idea." Hanako mused. "Might be a little hard to find some given our current situation though. I'll have to think on it."

---

When 8 o'clock rolled around finally, Hanako was beginning to feel tired and made her way up to the bedroom with Jitsuko in tow. There wasn't much left to do for the day so she went ahead and started getting herself and the ever silent clone ready for bed, expecting Trudy or Minette to turn up whenever they felt like it.

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 12 - 8:30 PM

Eventually Trudy and Minette came in. Minette had been busy teaching Aldric, while Trudy practiced her firearms. Jitsuko continued to follow obediently through the rest of the evening. And eventually both girls and Jitsuko were ready for sleep, having changed into their sleepwear.

QuoteFeel free to state actions for tomorrow, so we can start resolving days quicker!

[info]Tomorrow Hanako will hide out during the meeting and work on Light Armor Proficiency, then probably just hang around like normal unless something comes up.[/info]

[info]Training, Light Armor Proficiency:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 2 + 8, total 10[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Light Armor Proficiency Second Session:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 16 + 8, total 24[/blockquote][/info]

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 13 - 6:00 AM - 2 PM

You spent 8 hours working on being able to move well in the light armor. When it was over, Aldric and Minette came in to report about the meeting with the slaver. The slaver had apparently wanted to sell Klein a couple hundred more working slaves, but Aldric had promptly declined, and had also mentioned that he was thinking of downsizing his business, to at least start the rumor of less involvement from the Klein company with the affairs of the rest of the country.

QuoteYou still have the rest of afternoon and evening. You could attempt more training, just include CON checks with each one.

In an attempt to ensure that she could wear some measure of protective gear on her expedition to the mine, Hanako went ahead and pushed herself in training for the day.

[info]Forced Training, Light Armor Proficiency:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 15 + 8, total 23[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Required CON roll:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+6 : 14 + 6, total 20[/blockquote][/info]

Once finished, she sought out Kari to ask if there was a convenient time tomorrow to meet up and discuss learning about magic from her.

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 13 - 6:00 PM

You spent another 4 hours training. Once you were finished, you began to look for Kari. You eventually managed to spot her sitting in the common room, enjoying some tea. Amarille was also there sitting with her.

"Oh my Kari, did you like the tea that much? The Elven Las tea... That's your 9th pot today... Not to mention yesterday..."

"Truly, a marvelous concoction... Indeed, I hath not stopped drinking it since thou has granted me this marvel of treasures."

"W-well... Yes..." Amarille said. You caught the hesitance in her voice. "It's definitely the favorite of many other people here..."

"Thou speaketh the truth. Tis very much fine." Kari said, pouring herself another cup. The action only made Amarille smile, though, it seemed forced.

"I agree... but we used to have a pound of it... It's quite rare, more so being here in Refedoria..."

"Tis a treasure indeed." Kari nodded sagely.

"No... I mean... won't it be better to... enjoy it for longer? Perhaps a week from now, or even a month from now...?"

Kari looked at her strangely as if she had said the strangest thing. "Nay, lady Amarille. When thou liveth in trying times, thou must strive to take what peace that thou can. The Elven Las tea... tis a much needed treasure for mine tired soul."

"I... see..." Amarille said. It was then that they noticed you. "Ah, frau hero."

"Hero Hanako, wilst thou join me for tea?" Kari said formally inviting you. "Thou must try this Elven Las tea, a treasure that I only hath heard about and hadn't been able to try. Mine belief tells me that this mayhaps be one of the last few times this tea can be seeped this strongly... Thou must surely join me."

You couldn't help but see Amarille frown. Her eyes went towards you pleading for help.

Geh. This feels like a route choice...

"Well, if you've already got a pot made... I won't turn it down." Hanako said with some hesitation due to Amarille's look. "Though I feel like I need to agree with Amarille on this one. I get your perspective on the matter, but it's more considerate to others if we can extend the longevity of our stores. Alternatively, exercising moderation ensures that you can enjoy it longer. There's something to be said about making pleasant things more enjoyable by having them less frequently. A treat is precisely that because it's not something you have everyday."

She shot Amarille an apologetic look that said: "It's not like I can stop her."

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 13 - 6:00 PM

A notification appeared in your view.

[okay]You have gained a new title『Well-Appreciated』
You have gained +1 CHA[/okay]"Thank you so much!" Amarille attempted to whisper to you. Though Kari easily overheard it.

"Thou art thanking the hero, praytell, for what?" Kari asked as she took one of the unused cups on the tray next to the pot, then started to fill it with the tea.

"Oh... Well, for joining us here of course." Amarille replied back pleasantly, there was a look of guilt on her face though, but she continued a moment later. "For other things as well." Amarille finally said. "Saving us all... Giving us hope... among other things."

Kari only responded with a nod. "Tis true hero, thou art an existence that bringeth hope to the masses!" As she finished pouring the cup, she started to pour more tea in her own. Then after she was done with that, she began to pour a third cup. "For thee, lady Amarille." Amarille nodded as she too took the cup in her hands. "Then we shalt saveth the rest of this fine tea until the day after! T'would be moderation!" Kari declared, her voice full of surety and strength. "For now, drink, enjoyeth the taste of the tea, and the company that each of us giveth here."

Amarille nodded again, staring at her tea cup longingly. She brought the cup to her lips, and sipped at it, her face a mixture of both happiness and sadness.

It was indeed rather good tea. It reminded Hanako of a high quality black she had at her uncle's home once, flavorful and aromatic. She took a moment to savor the taste and then caught the look on Amarille's face.

"I'll get you home. I promised, didn't I? Once we get to Isikawa I imagine it will be much easier to make the trip back to your homeland."

Amarille smiled softly again. "I will make sure the kingdom reward you well." Amarille said.

"I've been through the elven forest just once... When I was captured. T'was a time of misfortune and betrayal... Though... Tis mine fault and weakness of mine heart that I hath gotten into such a problem in the first place... Anyways hero, what brings thee  to give us thy company?"

I'm gonna have to circle back to that later. Hanako thought, making a mental note.

"I was actually wondering if you had some free time tomorrow that you might be able to show me some of your magic Kari. I think I had mentioned before that I had an interest in learning some of what you can do."

"Mine magic... Tis not the one a hero such as thyself should learn... Nay, mine kin have banished me for learning these darker arts. However... Thou willingness to seek out power... If thou won't let it corrupt thee, then mine goddess shalt look favorably."

She raised her hand, and an arcane circle appeared. Again, there was no incantation. It was a dazzling sight as mist started to appear within it. Even Amarille stared wonderingly at it, though, she narrowed her eyes as if recognizing what it was. There was a strange look of horror on her face as she stared at the purple swirling mist. After that, a grotesque seemingly rotted pulsating mound of meat appeared from within the purple mists. It took you a moment to realize it was a beating heart, though, looked warped and sickly.

"Praytell hero... Why dost thou want to learn this kind of magic?"

Hanako watched the display with a keen interest, wondering what exactly that spell did besides create a decaying organ from seemingly nothing. She also saw Amarille's reaction, which didn't look to be one of approval.

"The way I see it, magic is a tool. More potent than a sword or a carpenter's hammer perhaps, but a tool none the less. And while the sword's purpose is to kill, the application of that purpose is an important distinction to make. I'm not naive or idealistic enough to think that the goals we have can't be accomplished without the use of things that others might disapprove of. I'm a pragmatist, if there is a tool to be used to accomplish a task, you use a tool. You seem to own some powerful tools" Hanako said, then shifted back in her seat and took another drink from her mug. "Not to mention I seem to have some sort of affinity for that kind of thing. Earlier this week there were quite a number of people locked in the cages downstairs, in order to free them I had to do something that I can really only describe as necromancy to get them free. Needless to say I'm not above using methods that might be unorthodox."

She turned slightly in her chair to look at Amarille. "You seem... uncomfortable with what you're seeing. Am I right?"

"Tis what you think. This power is necromancy." She glanced at the pulsating mass of flesh. "Tis the power to bend life and death to thy will. This particular spell... tis one of the 4th tier. But if thou is a novice... well, we'd have to start from the basics."

Amarille nodded. "That power... So you really are that witch... Oh! No offense intended." Amarille said. Kari waved her hand dismissively, not particular offended from the title. "Yes Frau Hero, this kind of magic has very few practitioners. It is a kind of magic that isn't sanctioned by the 6 goddesses. It's a magic considered to be equal or perhaps worst than wielders of the Darkness attribute."

"Darkness, tis an attribute I have as well." Kari said. To this Amarille raised her eyebrow.

"It's an unnatural type of magic. One that is rightly forbidden by elven laws. Kari here... is... well... perhaps a legend might be a way to put it?" Amarille said, as Kari eventually made the pulsating flesh vanish, then sup back her tea. "Valkyrie live longer than humans. Perhaps to around 150 years of age in a normal average lifespan. However, the Watch of Jorundarfell has transcended those limits. Humans and perhaps even other Valkyrie might claim her to be a tale to keep children away from forests, but the elves have known of her existence of course. We too are long lived, and do not forget so easily."

"I see. Do you think there's a problem with me learning these magics? To use the same metaphor, I'd like as many 'tools' in my 'toolbox' as possible. Eventually I was going to ask anyone else that seemed magically proficient to show me the ropes, so to speak."

Hanako had become keenly aware that if she wasn't careful, her interest in Kari's dark magics might negatively impact her standing with the others in her group.

"Well..." Amarille hesitated, you can tell she was trying to consider her words carefully. "Knowledge itself isn't a bad thing, but the chance of having it... well... affect you, that's more of a concern... As much as I accept Kari for who she is, I know there are some of my people who would never accept her." Amarille turned towards Kari, then hesitantly placed a hand on her shoulder. Kari herself furrowed her eyebrows with a face that was questioning what that was for. "You understand right?"

Kari nodded slowly.

"The ignorance of the masses. Tis something I'm familiar with. Even my own kin are blinded by their own values of what is wrong or right."

At this response Amarille's eyes simply softened as she had a long drawn out sigh. You could tell that Kari's response wasn't what she was expecting at all. Amarille let go of Kari's shoulder then turned back towards you. "I think... as the hero... you have more room between the lines than most others. Don't forget, that due to you being a hero, you're considered a savior to many people and cultures in this world. Both in our world of Velothia, and all the new lands and countries that have come here since the last hundred years. If you are to pursue this knowledge, especially in a time of war, even if people were to complain, no one would truly get in your way."

"Well, I suppose it's not like I'm going to go around flaunting it at every opportunity. It's just another tool to use when the situation calls for it. Once I've gotten the hang of it, I'd like to learn anything you might have to teach me as well."

She turned back to Kari. "Anyway, what's a good time for you tomorrow?"

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 13 - 6:10 PM

"Anytime tis a valorous time, though I prefer the morn." Kari said as she sipped more of the tea. Amarille too continued sipping the tea, more at ease this time due to your confirmation earlier that you would help Amarille see her home again.

"How much does thou knoweth of magic? If thy knowledge tis only wielding the elemental magic that would mean starting from the beginning."

"Uhh... I guess you could say I really only know how basic elemental magic works. Though part of my 'blessings' gives me intimate knowledge about certain topics that also have magic related to them. For example, when I opened all the cages downstairs I had to form a magical contract with a dead man. I did that by performing some kind of ritual that made a lump of meat act as his proxy. It was most definitely some kind of necromancy but I really couldn't tell you specifics. The knowledge I have is only really there when I go 'looking' for it. If you get my meaning." Hanako said, then took a drink.

"I don't think we have any guests coming to the estate tomorrow besides weapons deliveries, but I don't know how many people working under Sofia know the entire situation here. Morning should be fine, but it might be best to remain unseen by anyone coming by during the day."

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 13 - 6:10 PM

The valkyrie nodded her head. "Forsooth, that is necromancy. Creating a psuedo soul to taketh the lodging of a dead man is something elemental mages wouldn't bethink of attempting. Truly, thou are gifted, and may it not be skill, but thou are gifted in blessings of the goddesses."

When you explained your plans tomorrow the valkyrie nodded. "I, Kari, servant of the Goddess of Darkness shalt do mine best to bequeath thee with mine knowledge. Tis simple, thou art the hero. Simply tell thy people that thou art undertaking private lessons with the valkyrie. Then I wilt teachest thee."

Hanako nodded in thanks. "I'll be in your care then, sensei."


[info]If nothing else is going on, Hanako will simply go through the motions for the rest of the day then sleep. Next morning she'll seek out Kari for instruction.[/info]

QuoteWith no evening plans decided, I'll assume you'll wake up at 6 AM.

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 14 - 6:00 AM

Waking up the next morning, you made your way looking for Kari. You found her at the common room. Thinking about it, apart from when Kari was drugged up and unconscious, you haven't actually seen her sleeping. The common room seemed to be one of her favorite places to be in, even though you knew that the soldiers had assigned a room to her. Like always, Kari was indeed enjoying a cup of tea. Around her were various stacks of papers. So too seemed to be some writing materials, and chalk.

"Good morn to thee, hero Hanako." Kari said when she saw you. "Thou art ready?" She said grinning. "Tis shalt be boring at first. But tis said heroes learn quickly, mayhaps thou wilt learn this faster than I had centuries prior..."

Hanako stretched and stifled a yawn. "Mornin" she replied shaking off the last of her sleep. "I suppose the only way to find out is to get down to it."

She sat down near the diminutive warrior and steeled herself for the lessons ahead.

Kari nodded as she handed you some of the stacks of papers. They were all hand-written, telling you that Kari must have spent sometime last evening, or perhaps early in the morning setting it all up. They were primarily circles of various sorts. Your knowledge of magic in pop-culture and anime told you that these were indeed arcane circles.

"Necromancy, the magic of life and death maketh a lot of useth of arcane circles such as these. Thither art many types, each with different purposes, and the spells changeth depending on which runes art used, the order they art used in, and the layers of arcane circles for each one..." Kari began her lesson immediately, explaining the fundamentals of the arcane circles, and explaining their important to necromancy and other types of magic as a whole. The next couple hours would be spend drilling into you these basics, along with memorizing the runes, the order of circles, and then practicing drawing each of them on paper.

QuoteUnlocking a magic system will take a lot more work than learning new spells. You'll need to meet the following prerequisites for Necromancy magicka:

Magicka Circles, DC: 12, RS: 6, Be able to draw a magicka circle.This will take a couple of full round actions depending on the size of magicka circle being drawn. Unlocks Runes spell base.
Knowledge (spiritual), DC: 15, RS: 8, Knowledge of the spiritual plane and domains.
Knowledge (astral), DC: 15, RS: 8, Knowledge of the astral plane and matters of the soul.
Knowledge (ethereal), DC: 15, RS: 8, Knowledge of the ethereal plane. The blueprint of the physical world.
Knowledge (occultism), DC: 15, RS: 8, Knowledge of the occultism magicka. Unlocks occultism magicka spell usage.
Knowledge (necromancy), DC: 15, RS: 8, Knowledge of the necromancy magicka. Unlocks necromancy magicka spell usage.

Note on Untrained Usage (copied from Spell doc)
A hero can attempt an Untrained Usage of the spell, in a similar way to other Techniques. They must succeed a Training check with a DC equal to the spell's Learn DC plus 2 for every missing successful training session. A natural roll of 1 will fail the attempted use.

So attempting to cast a Tier 1 Necromancy spell right now would be at least a DC 57 Training check.

Note on existing blessings and extensions
Any spell that can be related to slavery can be attempted with a proper Knowledge (slavery) check (can be rolled even untrained due to being part of a blessing), including potentially any spell under Necromancy. If success, you have all prerequisites needed for the spell to cast.

Any spell under Contractual, Accord, or Binding magicka can be attempted with a proper Knowledge check of that magicka type. If success, you have all prerequisites needed for the spell to cast.

QuoteTraining check(s) requested, and specify how many hours you plan to do Magicka Circles, as that will affect the DC. Since Kari is mentoring, she'll roll her own Training checks as well to help your progress.

Oh lord. Hanako thought, realizing she had taken on quite a difficult task, then set to learning.

[info]Magicka Circles, Expedited Training, 4 sessions:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 2 + 8, total 10[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 10 + 8, total 18[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 15 + 8, total 23[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 16 + 8, total 24[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Correction from previous post, doing expedited x3. Doing four more sessions of 30 minutes each. Magicka Circles.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 16 + 8, total 24[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 14 + 8, total 22[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 18 + 8, total 26[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 11 + 8, total 19[/blockquote][/info]

QuoteTraining
Session 1
Hanako: Fail
Kari: Success

Session 2
Hanako: Fail
Kari: Fail

Session 3
Hanako: Fail
Kari: Fail

Session 4
Hanako: Success
Kari: Fail

Session 5
Hanako: Success
Kari: Critical Success

Session 6
Hanako: Fail
Kari: Success

Magicka Circles completed. 5 hours left of free training.

[info]Moving on to Knowledge (Spiritual), Expedited x2, five sessions for 5 hours
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 9 + 8, total 17[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 4 + 8, total 12[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 20 + 8, total 28[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 18 + 8, total 26[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 19 + 8, total 27[/blockquote][/info]

QuoteTraining
DC: 23

Session 1
Hanako: Fail
Kari: Fail

Session 2
Hanako: Fail
Kari: Fail

Session 3
Hanako: Fail
Kari: Fail

Session 4
Hanako: Success
Kari: Fail

Session 5
Hanako: Success
Kari: Fail

Session 6
Hanako: Fail
Kari: Fail

Training Progress
Knowledge (spiritual): 4/8

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 14 - 2:00 PM

You and Kari spent the entire morning going through drawings, diagrams, teaching, and note-taking. By the end of it, you realized you were absorbing more information than you thought you ever could before back in Japan. Memorizing the diagrams and runes, and connecting them to specific actions or magical effects came to you much easier than you thought it would. You eventually managed to get a good grasp of magicka circles. Their intricacies, the types of circles you could make, and being able to draw them out from memory alone. It was from this that you also found out that it didn't really matter what kind of medium you used to make magicka circles. In fact, Kari herself 'drew' the magicka circles by forming her mana in the air, creating glowing runes that hovered in mid-air.

QuoteUnlock condition for Mana Magicka Circles reached. I've placed them in your character sheet with a 0 progress. This can allow you to do self-training for it without Kari's help.

After you had mastered magicka circles, Kari began to teach you what she knew about the spiritual side of magicka. Not just the arcane, but apparently, even magic had a side to it more intune with the god, spirits, and domains. This part was a bit more different, unfortunately, Kari didn't have any written books to teach the subject, but it ended up being more akin to lectures, with you absorbing the information as much as you can.

During the day there were a couple of people passing by in interest, greeting you as the hero, or even dropping off a food tray. Minette and Trudy ha come by briefly as well to have a quick lunch break, but soon enough, everyone went back to their own training and teaching. By the end of this round of training when you were starting to get mentally exhausted, it was then when another three more wagons appeared at the front gates of the estate. Elyse had come by earlier mentioning that it was more of Sofia's employees who would help 'fill the house' in your absence. But they brought with them a couple of things as well. Various parts of the armored carriage was provided. All covered up and hidden on the wagons of course. The driver for the three wagons, an employee of Sofia, had pretended to be a slave trader, while the 'slaves' they carried were actually the staff to soon take care of the estate.

"Frau Hero!" Elyse said making her way towards you. She seemed to have a new set of weapons in her hand. It looked like a slimmer version of the longer guns from before. These indeed had what looked to be ammo cartridges in them. "Frau Hero! These is the result of your discussion with Frau Leiningen. As thanks, she sent us 10 of them for our use, along with ammo. They are still researching how to add light magic to the ammo cartridges, but they believe it's possible."

QuoteUnassembled Armored Carriage and 10 Rifles added to your Item sheet.

"Fantastic, these rifles should be able to fire farther, more accurately, and be reloaded faster than the guns we've been training with so far. I have an idea for dealing with the sound too, involving dampening it with magic but I haven't figured out the specifics yet. Consequently, do you know if there is a magic that enhances senses like sight?"

She wondered to herself why she hadn't bothered to bring up the concept of telescopic sights for accurate distance shooting when she explained rifling to Sofia before, not that a scope was what made a sniper able to shoot over great distances but it certainly did help.

Captain Elyse Dietriche shook her head. "Enhancing sight for magic? Normally I would say that would be impossible, but I've seen enough strange magic while we made it to the new world that nothing would surprise me anymore." Elyse said, specifically glancing at Kari.

"I'll have to look into that then" Hanako replied. "The alternative is we can slap some telescoping lenses on top to make distance shooting easier..." she trailed off without bothering to explain further. "Anyway, I take it things are currently well with Sofia? I imagine we would have heard if something out of the ordinary were to have happened."

"Telescopic lens... on a rifle... That's... actually pretty genius..." Elyse shook herself out of her thoughts. "Anyways, yes, Frau Leiningen doesn't keep me informed of everything, and she only tells me what I need to know. But my usual duties are helping manage the Birkensen company as Frau Leiningen's aid. I would be surprised if I haven't gotten wind of anything too out of the ordinary. Since coming here though... Well, I'm taking this time spent with the Klein company, you, and Aki-, the others, as a short break from my regular work."

"A change of pace can be nice once in a while, your assistance in training is much appreciated as well. The road ahead isn't going to be an easy one but preparing for it like we are should certainly keep it from being harder than necessary" Hanako said, with a smile. "At any rate, how are you doing?"

Asked how she was doing, Elyse started to list off a status. "The men have been keeping up with my pacing and training. There's a few soldiers who are exceptional at marksmanship, they should be finishing their training soon, perhaps even tomorrow. The soldiers Carol was teaching are still busy with their own studying of the technique Carol is teaching them. The rest of the soldiers that Birkensen are bringing onboard here have arrived. Everything is operating well, Frau Hero."

Hanako laughed heartily, then gave Elyse a smile anticipating what would surely be a look of confusion or maybe even annoyance that had yet to reach her face. "That response was, almost exactly what I should have expected from you Elyse." She wiped away the dampness that had started to form at the corner of her eye and grinned at the serious woman before her. "I meant like you, personally. How have you been? We're both busy doing what needs to be done around here so we don't have many chances to speak. I wanted to make sure things were well on a personal level."

In the short time she had been here, Hanako had come to accept that it was important to make sure that the people that worked with her were doing well. Maybe it was Falah's "unintentional' near betrayal, or perhaps the influence of becoming so close to Trudy and Minette, but she had come to learn that the relationships she was forming with the others were going to be key for everyone's survival in these trying times.

[info]Heroic action point earned.[/info]Elyse paused and blinked her eyes a couple times. Her face a mixture of surprise and being caught off-guard. "I-I see..." She stammered, perhaps the first time you've seen her do that. She cleared her throat. "That's not a question Frau Leiningen asks, I thought you meant a status of our operation... But... personally... y-yes. I am doing well." You could tell there was a hint of awkwardness at the end. But there was a hint of a smile that flashed on her face too.

"All things considered, pretty good. It's been a very... exciting week, but I can't say it hasn't been rewarding in it's own way." Hanako said, chucking a little at her understatement about the week's events. "I'm glad to hear you're well. I've only been here for a short time, and the situation in this country is pretty stressful. I couldn't begin to imagine how it's been for people that have been living here longer. It's important to me to know how people are doing. Your happiness is important."

After she said that last part Hanako realized how leading the statement sounded. Truthfully she meant it in a friendly sort of way, and Elyse didn't seem like the kind of person to misconstrue what she said. Although, it wouldn't be bad in either scenario. The stern onee-san type had its charms.

"These are trying times." Elyse admitted. "Harder still for those who don't have the protection of soldiers... or a hero like you." Her eyes lingered on you for a moment, seemingly seeing you in a new light. "Your own well-being is important too, Frau Hero. Whatever is at the top influences those underneath. I've been a soldier for years now, and then after the occupation, an aid for a company driven with it's goals. I admit at times I'm envious of how it's like here... You wouldn't see this level of fraternity and friendliness at the Birkensen Trading company. The men I'm training too are more driven than any I've drilled before."

In the next room over, you heard Akime and Minette. Akime conversing with others, while Minette translated for her. Elyse didn't look at the commotion, and only continued to stare at you. The ex-captain smiled wryly. "I have my own duties too." She said nodding her head in confirmation as a determined fire burned brightly behind her eyes. A moment later however, they softened. "But yet I wish my station here could be more permanent... Well, by that I mean following the hero... you."

"To tell you the truth, I'd prefer if you were able to come along as well. Though I would imagine Sofia would be upset if I stole you away, and I don't think I could afford to lose her backing at this point in the game. She and I are together against a common enemy, but we certainly don't see eye to eye on some fundamental issues" Hanako replied with a sigh.

She folded her arms over her chest and looked downward with a furrowed brow. "She is a businesswoman though, after all... I wonder..." she muttered more to herself than her conversation partner. A moment later a mischievous smirk crawled its way across her face and she looked up. "I have an idea. What do you think you're worth to Sofia? The remaining stake in Klein's businesses maybe?"

In the span of a few seconds, Elyse's expression changed from one of surprise, to disbelief, and finally to something that could only be described as gratefulness. "I'm..." Elyse began, not knowing how to respond, understanding what you meant by your question. "First, I don't think that's a very sound business proposal." Elyse finally said. "I handle a lot of the operations at the Birkensen company, and have enough autonomy to make some decisions of my own. So I would be worth a lot." She sighed. "But... the remaining stake of Klein's businesses though? That's... well... I don't have to run the numbers to know that's too good of a deal for Frau Leiningen to refuse. Do you... really mean that...?" Her eyes softened for a bit, but seemingly realizing, she closed her eyes and took a deep breath, only to face you again how she normally does.

"Frau hero, you're someone important to this country, and Klein's assets only work to your favor. It wouldn't be right of me to have you squander that away." She paused for a moment as her eyes took your form in. "But... I do appreciate it though..." There was some regret in her voice.

"I wouldn't say it would be squandered. From what I understand you're quite an administrator as well as a formidable soldier and a leader to boot. Between you and me, I can say with some certainty that I'm not very experienced with leading others. My status as a 'hero' gives me some clout but beyond that, my actions are really only guided by the convictions I happen to hold."

However few those are... she thought, privately.

"Your experience and companionship would be invaluable to what will definitely be a bitter struggle. So I'd say it would be more than worth it. Aldric was right in the meeting the other day, holding on to all of these properties and businesses will make it difficult to keep up appearances despite them being a source of income. I decided I was going to relinquish them to Sofia for a price anyway, and now I know that price is you."

Hanako chuckled softly. "I'm going to try and haggle a little anyway, so maybe we'll get a little gold out of it as well."

"I'm not going to convince you otherwise, am I?" Elyse said smiling wryly. "Very well then... I pledge my services to you." The captain said saluting. She grinned a moment later. "That is, whenever we make this change of occupation more formal with Frau Leiningen."

"Glad to have you" Hanako replied with a smile. "I'll probably extend an offer in the coming days and get things sorted from there. By the estimates I've been given we will have our preparations to leave Refedora complete in a couple weeks time, so surely before then."

She clapped a hand on Elyse's shoulder. "I look forward to continuing our work together."

She spoke softly and hesitantly, and you noticed a very slight blush on her features. She cleared her throat a moment later however.

QuoteCurrent time is 2 PM on Day 14. You've had your 8 hours of free training for the day already. If you plan to do more, roll CON checks with each.

Hanako felt compelled to clear her throat as well, shifting her gaze to the side to hide her embarrassment. "A-anyway... I should go talk to Trudy and Kari about my little excursion tomorrow. I'll see you around, Elyse."

After parting, Hanako wandered off to find either of the girls. Tomorrow was going to be the first time she had gone on an "adventure" in this new and dangerous world and wanted to be prepared.

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 14 - 2:30 PM

Asking around you eventually found out that Trudy was with Falah, showing Falah around and helping the demon girl work on chores. Currently they were in the kitchen. As for Kari, one of the soldiers mentioned she was listening to the lecture from Carol Graf, specifically about the type of magic that was used to transfer mana.

Hrm... I don't want to bug Kari if she's in the middle of learning something, so Trudy it is.

Having made up her mind, Hanako went to meet up with Trudy and Falah. She would have to speak with Kari too, but figured she could get the two of them in the same room later tonight to hash out the plans for tomorrow.

You quickly made your way to the kitchen, and once there you found both Falah and Trudy. The lunch time rush was just about to be ending, so it was around this time that cleaning took place. However, instead of cleaning, they were both in front of one of the stoves. To the side, you saw some brooms, and some wet clothes, so at the very least they had been cleaning.

"My mother used to say that the best way to a person's heart is food... so I think this would be perfect for everyone!" Trudy said matter-of-factly as she watched Falah worked. Falah herself was stirring something in a large pot. It didn't take them too long to notice you. When she turned, you noticed she was wearing something similar to a French maid outfit. A moment later, Falah did a curtsy towards you.

"O~oh. Naisu meido." Hanako replied with a thumbs up. She knew that Falah was doing some housekeeping chores, but this was an unexpected scene to come across.

"Falah, can you do me a favor and make a heart shape with your fingers and say 'moe moe, kyun~!' please?"

"Yes, excellent. This is the peak of maid power" Hanako said matter-of-factly. "Really though, what are you two up to?"

It was Trudy who responded first. "W-well... It would actually have been for you, too..." Trudy glanced at Falah, but Falah nodded positively.

"I wanted to do something for everyone so they would stop glaring at me... Or maybe so they can be friends." Falah admitted as she fiddled with her fingers and looked downwards. "So... I asked Trudy, and she had this idea..." Falah said pointing at the pot on the stove.

"It's chocolate. They're something nobles give to their friends on Lover's Day. Other people would too, if they can afford it. There was some we found, and there were already molds for them too. Since we're all leaving the estate before the next Lover's Day, I thought that this might be a good way for Falah to let everyone else know she doesn't mean any harm, and that she wants to be friends with everyone." Trudy explained.

Falah nodded and smiled happily as Trudy explained.

"That's not a bad idea, I can't think of anyone that doesn't like a little chocolate every now and then. How's the process going?"

Hanako hoped the answer was "good", anything that could provide a positive impression on the others in regards to Falah would be nice.

"It's going well... This is our first batch, but we have to make... Maybe 200 pieces altogether for everyone, so I hope we'll finish before they need the kitchen for dinner."

"I want to surprise everyone with it! And this is the first time I tried chocolate... It's really really good." Falah said.

"You've never had chocolate before?" Hanako asked, genuinely curious. Though she expected the reason for that was either it was a luxury item in this world, or perhaps Falah's outsider status with her own people ended up denying her access to something as simple as a piece of candy.

Falah shook her head. "We didn't have these kinds of food in our own lands." Falah explained. "The lands of demons are different from here... The skies are always grey, the rivers are red, not clear and blue like yours. The few plants that grow on our land range from purple to blue to grey. The food we have doesn't taste as good as the ones they make in human lands. Everything here is... a lot tastier."

"Most demons don't care though. A lot of them eat humans, and I was told that was plenty tasty to them. But for me... I always felt weird thinking about eating things that can think? Like umm... well... Some of the other demons have their minions eat each other, or rival demon lord's minions..."

"That sounds... uhh... pretty rough..." Hanako replied, silently thanking her luck that Falah wasn't inclined to eat people. The revelation that the demons use people as food, while not particularly shocking (considering that they are demons after all), was still an important piece of information to learn.

Mental note: Do not get captured by demons. she thought.

"Glad you've come to enjoy the food here. I'm sure the others will be happy to receive a tasty treat, and I hope they come to like you better for the gift."

Falah smiled brightly. "I hope so too!" She quickly turned back to her cooking, then grabbed the ladle. When she pulled it back out, it was coated in chocolate. "Do you umm.... want to try some...?" Falah asked hopefully.

"Sure, I'd love to" Hanako answered with a smile and moved closer to get a taste.

"Okay, I'll make sure you have the best one." She said, dipping it into the pot again, she pulled it out quickly again. Unfortunately in her excitement she had a bit of spill and splatter on her face, dress, and cleavage. She seemed to smile still though, and proceeded to hand you the ladle. It was already started to drip, and you knew it wouldn't take long to cover her fingers that held it too.

Mmmmm... What a classic situation.

Not wanting for there to be a mess, Hanako quickly dipped the tip of her finger in the chocolate that was running down the ladle and brought it to her mouth but before she gave it a taste she noticed the dark glob of confection that had settled itself on Falah's chest.

"Oh, you got some on you." she said casually and used another finger to quickly swipe it up and deposit the sample on her tongue.

It wasn't until you had placed the chocolate into your mouth the second time that Falah started to blush.


"Thank you Hanako..." Falah said blushing still. "U-umm, I'm sorry, I always make a mess." She continued, her voice having notes of melancholy to them.

"That's okay Falah... I used to be fairly clumsy too before I started training to be a soldier. But everyone learns... Like Jitsuko over there!" Trudy winked at Falah.

"Yeah, it's no big deal. Making chocolate is kind of messy anyway so don't worry about it!"

Hanako smiled and gave Falah a reassuring pat on the head. "Tastes great, keep up the good work!"

Falah smiled. "I will. I hope everyone likes them."

"So Hanako... What brings you here?" Trudy asked.

"Ah right!" Hanako exclaimed, having forgotten to mention why she was there in the first place. "I think I mentioned to you before I was planning on seeing what was down in the mine marked on Klein's map yeah? I was hoping that you would be able to come along with me during the trip. I figured that you and Kari combined would probably be enough to take whatever nastiness we could potentially encounter with me acting as support. Are you interested?"

"The mines... The ones in the book we found... Of course! When do we plan to go? It might be short notice, but tomorrow the other admins of each of the sites are visiting the estate. Klein usually holds a meeting once a month with the heads of each of the sites, Minette was telling me about it earlier. The representative from the southern mining site heads back there usually after the meeting is done. We could potentially accompany them... Although... None of them know about what's happening here, and I'm not actually sure if they were truly loyal to Klein, or if they simply put up with him and excelled in what they did. Minette was... well... every female in this household had to deal with Klein, but, since Minette helped administrate everything, she didn't have it nearly as bad. The offsite administrators though...I believe they were actually paid, since he couldn't actually be physically at the sites to punish the rest of the works or enforce order."

"I was thinking, if everything goes well tomorrow, the southern administrator would help us get there?"

"I had planned to go tomorrow anyway, originally I figured we would head over while the meetings were going on but if you think the administrator can help grease the wheels so to speak then we could accompany them back to the site. I'm not sure if I want to tip my hand and tell them whats going on here yet, simply because the more people know the more likely we'll be exposed. However we're going to have to recall all the workers in the near future anyway so I guess we can cross that bridge when we come to it. Either way, I still have to speak to Kari about it but tomorrow is the most convenient day to investigate. We'll need to be well prepared since there's no telling what might be down there and I'd rather not be caught in a bad situation. To that effect we should come up with a list of things we should bring along, I'm all ears for your suggestions."

"Mines... Yes. There was a standard set of gear soldiers bring with them during war-time. But specifically the mines we should probably bring things like light sources, ropes, and potentially climbing gear just in case." She nodded her head thoughtfully. "I'll go talk it over with Minette after I'm done helping Falah, so I can familiarize myself with the mines too, and maybe she can help suggest some things to bring."

"Sounds good to me, I guess I'll go check in with Kari next and see if she's willing to come along. I guess we can have a planning session later tonight." Hanako said, grateful that Trudy had some idea of what to prepare for the journey.

"Keep up the good work!" she said, turning to Falah and giving her a pat on the arm before making to leave the kitchen.

Both the girls had waved you goodbye, as they continued to work on the chocolates they were preparing for everyone. Falah was doing most of the work though, but Trudy stayed with her to continue giving her instructions, and guiding Falah on what to do. The demon girl looked quite happy and content as she worked with Trudy.

Soon enough, you went to look for Kari, you knew her to be learning something from Carol, and you eventually made your way to where her lecture was being held. It was held in the room just left of coming in. Not the same room that was used for the meetings, but the one across from it. You knew there to be 5 soldiers that were particularly skilled at magic that was learning from Carol, but as you peered in, you saw both Kari and Amarille sitting with each other listening to Carol's teaching.


Carol being the one facing the door and the rest of the class saw you the moment you stepped in. "Heyoo Ms. Hanako!" With that the rest of the students turned and glanced towards you.

"Ah, evening everyone. Sorry if I'm interrupting. Feel free to continue." Hanako said with a waive. She needed to speak with Kari, but it wasn't particularly urgent so she was willing to wait. To illustrate that Carol should continue, Hanako took a seat nearby.

[info]Requested rolls

Training: [blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 20 + 8, total 28[/blockquote]

CON: [blockquote]Rolled 1d20+6 : 18 + 6, total 24[/blockquote][/info]

Carol smiled gently. "Alright class, we have a special guest! So I expect everyone to pay extra attention you hear? You are the magical pride of the estate! And today we'll have some practicals too!"


Though you had jumped in, in the middle of the lecture, you managed to pick up a lot on what she was teaching. Carol Graf was in her prime when she taught, in fact, she seemed to be a different person altogether when she was up at the front giving the lecture,or even going around to each of the students helping them with the subject on hand. She seemed to take into account of the fact that this was your first time listening into the lecture, so she included a lot of other information as she taught the subject. She skillfully made the older information relevant to what she was currently teaching, so that it wasn't so jarring for the rest of the students either.

Not only that, you absorbed the information well. When it came to the actual 'practicals', which was moving mana into a mana crystal, you indeed felt like you were making good progress. You weren't able to actually transfer the mana, but you did manage to get the crystal to react slightly, which was apparently one of the first steps for the crystal to actually store it.

---

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 14 - 5:00 PM

"Alright class. That's it for today. I'll be sure to see you all tomorrow!" Carol said smiling widely. Some of the men in the room blushed at that, but many of them nodded.

"Yes ma'am!" They chanted in unison with smiles on each of their faces.

You gained a title as well the moment the rest of the soldiers left the room.

[okay]You have gained a new title 『Student』
You have gained +1 WIS[/okay]

QuoteTraining
Transfer Mana (DC: 25, RS: 14): 4/14

"Not quite a spell, but the lady covers the basic form. This is more an exercise of how artful one is on being able to manipulate their mana. Tis quite interesting." Kari commented.

"Normally this sort of thing is considered skills that only the most skilled mages learn... But for this country to be teaching it so readily, their magecraft seems to be more knowledgeable than ours." Amarille agreed.

"What dost thou think, hero?" Kari asked you, noticing you were with them since you had come in.

"It's certainly interesting" Hanako commented, "My limited understanding of magic makes it difficult for me to comment though. Where I'm from, we don't have it, so even something the rest of you might consider trivial and mundane is pretty impressive to me."

She scratched the back of her head and gave a bashful smile at her own amazement.

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 14 - 5:00 PM

They both nodded at your response. "Since thou wast willing to wend through this lecture, perhaps we can continueth our lessons?" Kari asked staring at you. Amarille nodded slowly, she wasn't quite comfortable with the magic, but at the same time, she had accepted it.

"I can give it a shot, don't be surprised if I get tuckered out though. I really came down here to ask if you wanted to come with me and Trudy tomorrow to investigate this mine. You'd have to disguise yourself a bit, but we can pack away your armor to take with us. You are pretty strong, and can pass as Refedoran so we should be able to get down into the mine itself without issues. However, I am suspicious that there is something down in the deeper levels that warrants taking a look and I'd like to come prepared." Hanako answered, then scratched at her nose as if embarrassed. "If you want to, that is."

Location: Klein's Estate
Date: Day 14 - 5:00 PM

"If thou art tired, then there is tomorrow... Mayhaps I can teach thee on the road then." Kari responded. She nodded when you brought up investigation of the mines. "Mine equipment and gear wilt be ready for our excursion, hero." Kari turned towards Amarille. "Mayhaps... I can bring... some of the tea?" She asked hopefully staring at the elf for permission.

In response Amarille smiled. "Of course... But be sure to share it with the hero as well." Amarille said patting the girl's head. Amarille froze when she realized what she had just done. "Oh I'm sorry-"

"Nay." Kari replied. "TIs mine luck that I looketh like a child."

Hanako had to stifle a chuckle at the scene. "It probably works to your advantage in certain situations I would imagine. People who don't know who you are would probably underestimate you. A fatal mistake I'm sure."

She considered asking Kari exactly how old she was, and if it was a byproduct of the pact with her goddess or perhaps extended through necromancy. The dark side of the Force is a pathway to many abilities some consider to be unnatural. Emperor Palpatine said in the back of her mind.

"How long exactly have you uhh... looked like that?"

"Truly tis an advantage at times... And at times... indeed..." You noticed Kari stare at Amarille's bust. "Tis an disadvantage."

She shook her head sadly. "Since I let mineself become an immortal from mine own master early in mine own training."

Hanako coughed lightly into her hand. "Ahem. I don't think you need to worry about that too much." she said reassuringly, as a member of the "Flat is Justice" school of thinking.

"I take it that you've been immortal a while then? If you don't mind me asking that is. Do you simply not age?"

She nods her head. "Wounds and injuries can still kill me, but old age nay longer affects me. Tis different from Amarille's people, the elves, whither they age much slower than humans and valkyrie alike."

"Impressive. I can't even begin to imagine what it's like to live forever that way. You must have had quite a life." Hanako replied, interested to know what sort of things this girl had experienced. "You'll have to tell me about the things you've seen and done sometime. If you want, that is."

"Mayhaps some other time, tis many stories of mine life." Kari said.

QuoteIF you have any other plans for the day, let me know.

QuoteGolem experimentation: http://forums.fantasyworldcreations.com/index.php?topic=2013.0

After playing around with the golemancer ability for a while, Hanako returned to the mansion and made her way up to her room. She was going to have to see if she could somehow get Jitsuko to follow any basic commands given by Minette the following day, as having a pair of identical "Isikawan" women show up at the mine, would probably tip someone off that there was something odd afoot.

Location: Klein's Estate - Hanako's Room
Date: Day 14 - 6:30 PM

It was just you and Jitsuko in your room. Both the girls were still off taking care of things, or training with one thing or another.

Hanako looked around, saw that nobody was here yet and plopped down on the bed and motioned for Jitsuko to come sit next to her. She spent the next stretch of time, prior to anyone else's arrival in the room, doing her best to impart instructions on Jitsuko that tonight and tomorrow she should follow Minette's commands, provided that they wouldn't cause any harm to herself and others. Hanako didn't think Minette would do something of that nature, but it pays to be careful in case she had an evil twin or something.

With luck, the girls would come to the room soon so that she could test out if Jitsuko would even listen.

Soon enough, a tired Minette came into the room, noticing you and Jitsuko she smiled. "Hanako... Jitsuko... Good evening." Minette said as she began to strip her clothing and switch out to her regular sleep wear.

"Oh hey, evening Minette." Hanako replied with her own tired smile. "Before we get in bed, can I ask you to participate in an experiment real quick? I've been trying to make it so Jitsuko will follow some commands from you, since Trudy and I will be out of the mansion tomorrow, and I wanted to make sure you can like... get her to eat and stuff since I won't be able to take her along or watch after her until I get back. If you could, can you try asking her to do some stuff?"

"Oh? Of course... Anything for Hanako..."

"Thanks. I guess, go ahead and see if you can get her to follow a request. Just to see if it worked."

"Jitsuko..." Minette said in her usual slow speech. ".. Hmmm... Hold my hand." She finally asked as the demihuman soldier reached her hand out towards Jitsuko in a hand-shaking gesture. Jitsuko obliged, following your commands from earlier, for Jitsuko to follow Minette's own commands.

Minette smiled softly what Jitsuko did as she instructed.  "Now... give big sister Minette a hug..." Almost robotically, Jitsuko proceeded with the commands as well. At this Minette simply patted Jitsuko's head, and turning towards you she nodded. "It looks like it worked..."

"That's good." Hanako said, breathing a sigh of relief. This meant that it wouldn't be any trouble getting Jitsuko to do anything basic for her survival while the mine was being explored. "I guess that's pretty much it then. Try and keep her out of trouble tomorrow while I'm away." she said with a smile.

Location: Klein's Estate - Hanako's Room
Date: Day 14 - 6:30 PM

"Of course Hanako..."

QuoteState any plans for rest of day.

[info]No additional plans, Hanako is just going to go through the motions until bed.[/info]