Fantasy World Creations

One of the meeting rooms of the Klein estate was situated on the first floor, near the lobby. It was the same room that was used during your first visit from Sofia Leiningen. This was the one where you had the rest of your crew, Aldric, Minette, and Wendy, meet up in. Soon enough, the four of you sat around the table.

"Hanako! Glad you could swing by...  My first 'mission' was coming up soon later today, and I was afraid to go into... I'm glad you have Klein's accountant with you as well, I feel like I'd need to get an idea of all these deals that Klein had... I'm not much of a businessman, more of a showman, you see?"

"All... you need is... the proper information." Minette replied in her slow speech.

"So what exactly are we dealing in here? Darling Hanako?"

"Let's see, today was buying land for a third mining site and discussing the lumberwork rights for the new lumber mill that's to be built. I think Minette here has most of the details. I don't care much for the mine, but we do need to secure the sole rights to operate the lumber mill. I plan on using it as a staging ground for something else so we can't have outsiders snooping around."

Hanako opened up the floor to Minette to explain the ins and outs of the transactions and Klein's money, since she herself had a limited understanding of it herself. The most critical thing was making sure there was a private site that would serve as a front for moving slaves around with minimal suspicion.

Location: Herr Klein's Estate - Meeting Room
Date: Day 9 - 11 AM

Minette took the floor as she began to explain the details about Klein's business, assets, along with expectations of what was to come in terms of business dealings and plans for the future. Wendy continued to listen in as well, and she managed to pick up easily on what was being discussed, as she herself used to help run the money-lending and general goods store in the city. It was Aldric who had the most trouble uptaking everything, and he ended up asking a lot of questions to get clarifications on most of everything. He had brought a a notepad and a pen with him for the meeting, so he had started making his own notes as well.

"Alright... I think I got it. The main thing we want is to ensure that we have the full rights to the lumber mill we plan to setup."

"We have... a couple hours... Expect the Flensberg official to come at noon, or later..."

"Ok, I think we've got it down pretty good. We can go over it a few more times and then it's basically just waiting for them to show up. If things get weird, I have a way to set it right again but it would be best if I didn't have to." Hanako said, referring in an intentionally vague way to her ability to enslave the will of other people.

"Let's get this done right folks!"

Soon enough, right after lunch, one of the soldiers reported that a carriage was on its way here. You had already setup a number of slaves and soldiers who had volunteered to have their collars back on. Aldric and Minette, on the other hand, was going over the exact state of the finances. It wasn't likely that they would be needed, but Aldric wanted to have as much information down as much as possible.

"Presenting Herr Alwin Miller! Flensberg official." One of your soldiers said, as a man was ushered in. Aldric, as Klein, was already at the front. There was a man with blonde hair, flanked by 4 soldiers.


"Yes... I've been expecting you. Glad you could make it here safely. Do make yourself comfortable." Aldric flashed him a toothy grin as he proceeded to make his way towards the meeting room.

Along the way, Aldric turned towards one of the slaves.

"You! Bring some refreshments for our guest. You had better be quick too." Aldric spat cold and roughly. The slave nodded, knowing the entire thing was a ruse.

"Yes, Herr Klein."

Alwin Miller glanced around everyone in the room, noticing you as well.

"Is she Isikawan? A rarity... I'm impressed Herr Klein." Alwin said his eyes looking towards you.

QuoteI'll post these as piecemeal, you can just let me know to keep going, to finish the scene if you have no planned actions

Hanako shifted her gaze away from the man named Alwin as soon as he looked at her, locking her eyes to the floor and doing her best to be unassuming as difficult as that was considering she was a "rarity".

Four guards. I could probably enslave them if I needed to. Probably just need one really to cause confusion.

She probably wouldn't have to. Things would probably be fine, but she was neurotic about expecting events to go every which way but right. She continued to stand nearby and listen to the proceedings.

Aldric grinned again.

"Cost me a pretty penny too. But worth every bit." He winked at the man. Alwin seemed to have shivered a bit, and looked uncomfortable, but he chose not to say anything.

"To business shall we?" Aldric offered.

"Of course..." Alwin said as he pulled out what looked to be a notebook, leafing through it a bit and reading some entries.

"It looks like you'll be wanting to buy some more land, for a new mining operation near Flensberg? And looks like we are to discuss some potential trade for the lumberyard rights in the existing land you have over there. Correct?"

"That is correct."

"Great. A couple of companies based in Flenbserg are interested in the deal as well. I have a list of them with me if you'd like to review it."

"No, that's alright." Aldric said.

The official scrunched up his eyebrows in confusion.

"Wasn't this one of the reasons I came?"

"Yes... well... Change of plans you see? The new lumberyard that we plan will be solely under the Klein Company."

"I see... Well, it is indeed your decision and choice to do so. It is your land after all. Can I ask what made this change? From our previous dealings, it seemed that you were excited with the prospect of selling out the lumberyard rights, much like you do currently with your own mining sites here in Elstergen."

"I believe that my company can make better use of the lumberyard rights... If we are expanding to Flensberg, then as my first foray into the city, I would much prefer having more control of the supply and demand that we create. I plan to be filling up the capacity of slaves soon for that lumbermill. Though... Do tell your client that perhaps in the future, I'd be willing to lease out the rights."

"Very well... Alright, are you still proceeding with the purchase of the land for your third mining site?"

"No..."

"Plans changed?"

(http://forums.fantasyworldcreations.com/Themes/envision2013_smf20_rev3/images/dice_warn.gif) This dice roll has been tampered with!
Aldric Bluff 1d20+13 : 7 + 13, total 20
(http://forums.fantasyworldcreations.com/Themes/envision2013_smf20_rev3/images/dice_warn.gif) This dice roll has been tampered with!
Alwin Sense Motive 1d20+9 : 10 + 9, total 19

"Yes, plans have changed."

"I thought you were planning to expand to Flensburg? Would not having a mining site be beneficial? I had assumed that you would be attempting to find a warehouse to place a foundry next as well in the city... At the very least, that was what I was lead to believe."

"Well..."

You noticed Aldric make eye contact with you.

When Aldric made eye contact with her, Hanako realized that perhaps abandoning the mine might have been a bit of a stretch. She had hoped to save the money but in the end the most important thing was maintaining the illusion that everything was business as usual with Klein and his company. She needed to say something...

"Master... If you'll permit me to say so..." she began, tone a mix of meekness and cold servitude much like a butler. "Though you had intended to save yourself the expense, it may be profitable in the long run to continue with the purchase after all. Though that is just my lowly opinion. Your humble servant could show you the figures, if it please you." she finished, motioning to Minette and giving a polite and reverent bow to Aldric.

Feigning irritation, Aldric spoke.

"Master, the mines alone will bring us the markets of Flens-"

"Silence!" Aldric cut her off. "Do not presume to know my business dealings... I had thought savings from skipping buying this mining site, would help me focus better on the lumber mill... But yes, including that will indeed give us a much needed foothold in Flensberg..."

"Very well Herr Miller, we shall proceed with the purchase of the land."

"Great, I'm happy to hear. For that too, I have been approached by a couple of Flensberg mining operations who would be interested... But we can save that for another time. I've brought the required documentation for our city. The purchase of land of the new mining site. Along with potential contracts, and a list of buyers for the lumberyard rights... But, since you are no longer selling those, we can skip that. Some of my clients would be dismayed, but I suppose that's how business work." He began to pull out a bunch of documents.

"Here are paperwork detailing out the land, your rights, and restrictions on the property. In association with our government. I'll give you some minutes to read it... Take your time. Once you finish however, go ahead and sign the last page."

When he mentioned sign, you saw Aldric flash an eye towards you very briefly.

"I see... Well... Let me go through this then..." Aldric said, as he began to reach for the papers.

Fuck I should have spent some time teaching him Klein's signature... Hanako thought, irritated.

Aldric obviously couldn't act his way out of this one, so something else would need to happen to stall for time allowing Hanako the ability to sign the papers herself. She looked around the room quickly, searching for any way to make a distraction or delay the signing of the papers. After a moment, she saw it.

"Klein's" teacup, was looking perilously empty, and any good attendant would want to make sure her master's cup was always full. It goes without saying then, that Hanako stepped forward while Aldric was reviewing the papers and picked up the pot of steaming hot tea. She very gingerly began to pour it into his cup, when wouldn't you know it... her clumsy hands happened to drop the teapot on the table spilling tea over the documents.

She gasped and dropped to the floor in a perfect dogeza, forehead smashed into the floor. "Oh no! M-master I am SO sorry! I-I-I simply saw your c-cup was empty and needed refilling! Please, please I beg your forgiveness!"

With luck, Aldric would offer to hold on to the wet papers and sign them when dry, returning them via courier at a later date.

"You clumsy bitch!" Aldric roared, standing up, his eyes were angry, and the man himself seemed to purposefully exhort himself, forcing his face to turn red in anger.

Alwin Miller grimaced as he quickly reached over to grab the papers, and try to salvage as much as he can.

"I didn't think to bring any spares of these documents..." He finally said. He frowned when he noticed the final page, being on the bottom, managed to soak up most of the spilled tea.

Even the Flensberg official glared at you.

"And to think Isikawan slaves are prized for their dexterity, much like their warriors..." He looked annoyed. "Are you not going to punish her?" He continued as he stared at the collar around your neck.

"You're one of the few nobles who spends extra on magical collars, no?"

Ugh... what an asshole.

Hanako thought activated her collar, medium setting for realism and braced for the pain.

The collar activated, as the electricity triggered. The pain was excruciating. Aldric followed up, grabbing on to your collar, and pulling you closer to his face.

"Do not do that again." He said in a threatening voice. He let go roughly a moment later, and turned back towards Alwin.

"Unfortunately, with how the contract is... I'll have to wait until it's dried... How much longer will you be staying here in Elstergen?"

"I was planning to leave tonight, after this meeting actually... But I suppose I can wait til tomorrow." Alwin sighed.

"I'll send a courier to send it to you tomorrow morning." Aldric suggested, to which Alwin nodded.

---

Soon enough, with the business completed, Alwin along with the rest of his guards left the estate, making their way back towards the city. Once it was confirmed he was gone. Aldric got on his knees, in something similar to a dogeza bow, and bowed towards you.

Hanako was in the middle of taking off her collar when Aldric started prostrating himself before her. "Hey hey, get up! You did exactly what you were supposed to do. I should have thought about it and showed you how to forge Klein's signature before we had the meeting."

She chuckled a little. "Good thing we served tea, right?"

She went around removing the collars from everyone else that had volunteered to have them put on, thanking each person as she went.

"All in all though I'd say that was convincing. Plus we can look over the contract at our leisure now."

Aldric eventually raised himself up, being a large fat man, he had trouble doing so, but with the aid of his fellow actors who were simply grinning at Aldric's actions, he eventually righted himself.

"Y-yes well... I wasn't entirely sure about you being a hero, to be perfectly honest, even though I was told about it before hand. Seeing you snap these collars back into life, and now, taking them off again like it was nothing though..." The fat man shook his head, and he grinned a moment later.

"Quick thinking about the tea though. But yes... All things considered, I think we did a pretty good job. But..." He turned towards Minette. "Minette, could you get me example of his signature?"

"... Yes..." Minette said slowly, then headed off.

Aldric swept his hand through his hair.

"You know... acting was so much easier when your life and others aren't on the line? Haha..."

"I can imagine." Hanako said. "It's been a departure from what I'm used to I can tell you that."

She went about mopping up the spilled tea and finding a place to spread out the papers so they would dry faster. "I'm pretty good at forging his name so if you need pointers on it I can show you."

There was still a lot of daylight left, so while Hanako waited to see what Aldric was going to do she thought about the list of things she needed to take care of as well. If he doesn't need help I should probably work on my own training I guess... Probably need to see what's coming up tomorrow too.

Location: Herr Klein's Estate - Lobby
Date: Day 9 - 11 AM

"That would be useful... But let's see how far I get first!" He laughed. "I don't want to be taking up your precious time after all. The next time I'm needed is tomorrow though isn't it? I had Minette go over with me on the calendar..."

"Anyways, I'll be practicing the signature. It's not like I need to learn how to fire one of those 'firearms', so I'll focus on that. Do come by sometime with the plan for the meeting with the slaver though. As I was told, they usually come by early in the morning."

QuoteYou have 4 hours of training left in the day. You could do Forced Training rules if you wanted. You could also spend time helping Klein learn. All other NPCs will continue to learn how to use Fire Arms, Carol will continue training others how to use the mana transfer magic.

"Sure, I'll come find you later." Hanako said, and decided now was as good a time as any to go down and do some shooting practice.

She made her way downstairs and joined anyone that was down at the range in working on her marksmanship.


When she was finished she sought out Minette for some financial advice on the upcoming meeting.

Location: Herr Klein's Estate
Date: Day 9 - 3 PM

QuoteTrainings
Firearm Proficiency: 3/8

---

Location: Minette's Study
Date: Day 9 - 3 PM

"Hanako..." Minette said when you came into the door. There were times when Wendy was in here with her, or perhaps Aldric, or any of the other soldiers, but this time, Minette was alone. She seemed to have been looking over records, and was doing some record keeping and accounting work.

The accountant smiled softly, picked herself up, then casually wrapped her arms around your waist.

Affectionate as always. Hanako thought, wrapping an arm around Minette in return and then ruffling her hair.

"Hey, I dropped by to ask a few questions about the meeting tomorrow but it can wait. Let's hang out a bit first. How are things?" she said, with a smile. It was good to spend a little one-on-one time with her close friends that didn't have to deal with life threatening situations. Though the day was somewhat stressful, now that there was nothing going on the memory of that morning's intimate moments drifted up from the back of Hanako's subconscious and made her blush a little.

"It's been going... well..." Minette said timidly.

"Since the meeting with the Flensberg official is done... I've been... thinking about this morning... With all of us... together." Minette smiled softly, as she thought about it. She continued to hold you close, and there was just a faint blush on her features. She had her hat off, it was lying on her table, and her ears, that looked like it was part of hair, twitched.

"That was... fun." Minette finally said.

"Yeah it was, we could probably do it more often if you'd like." Hanako said, not exactly without hidden motives. "I was just thinking about it myself..."

It was a rare occurrence to see Minette without her hat on and even more so to have ears up. Hanako couldn't help but feel compelled to let her hand drift slowly towards them as she ran her fingers through the girls silky white hair. Eventually it got to the point where she was simply playing with them the way you might with a cats.

"You know, these are kind of fluffy..." she said absentmindedly.

Crazy fluffy.

"It... tickles a bit. But it feels nice." Minette said softly. The demihuman's blush wasn't nearly as much as Trudy's can be, but she felt relaxed. She took your hand then, and brought you over to one of the couches in the room, sitting herself down, she patted a spot next to her.

"Come sit with me..."

Hanako did as requested and sat down. Thinking about it, she realized this might have been the first time she had been alone in a room with Minette while they weren't working on something. As a result, Hanako couldn't keep from noticing the doll-like features of the girl next to her.

I don't think I noticed before how cute she was up close. she thought, not that she hadn't thought of her as cute before.

She began to wrap her arms around you first in a gentle hug. Then after that you felt her start to dig her hands into your back.

"It's been over a week so far... Don't let the stress get to you..." She said said, continuing her gentle massage. "And..."

"If there's anything... you need... I'll be here too for you, along with Trudy."

Hanako relaxed into Minette's gentle kneading. She hadn't realized that the short visit from the official had left her feeling sort of tense, perhaps an after effect of shocking herself with the collar. Either way, the massage was quite welcome.

"Thanks, I don't really think I could have made any of this work without your help. You two have been a real source of stability in what's been kind of a crazy week. I think I really needed this morning." she said. "This is pretty great too."

Hanako gave a contented sigh and let her shoulders slacken even more.

"That feels good..."

As she continued, Minette began to hum softly. She had a comforting voice as her humming went high and low. Finally, she stopped, then, still sitting behind you, she asked in a quieter voice than normal.

"Hanako... Have you... ever kissed anyone..?"

Hanako went red instantly. Which was odd considering she had spent the morning in a bathtub with two other women doing what could only loosely be called "bathing", and what more accurately could be called "fondling". Still, she blushed like a schoolgirl.

"K-kissed? N-no I can't say that I have..." she said truthfully. It was, after all, a fact that Hanako was a kiss-less virgin, despite spending a large portion of her pre-hero life drawing characters in "the act". This was largely due to her loner lifestyle, coupled with a reduced dating pool. She hadn't been fortunate enough to attend one of those prestigious all girls schools of legend, where young women spent their days experimenting with love between classes. Holding hands discreetly in the hallway, or... whatever.

"W-why do you ask...?"

Minette began playing with the locks of your hair near your ear. Her hands softly brushing through them.

"Oh..." Minette said slowly. You caught a few somber tones in her voice.

Hanako shuddered slightly when Minette ran her fingers past her ear.

"It's not that I wouldn't want to... I just never got the chance... H-have you?"

"Once... A long time ago... She was... my best friend... She's... no longer with us though..." She paused for a few moments, and you could feel her hand slightly shiver.

"I would like to..." She continued, and you felt her wrap her arms around you again, pulling you into a gentle hug from behind.

"But... Only after Trudy." She said finally. "She's... really attached to you."

Hanako was bright red once again. The combination of Minette's declaration and the press of her body into Hanako's back brought the hero's heartbeat up to a solid 90 BPM.

"O-oh, y-yes it does seem that way." Hanako stammered. "I uh... think it would be nice to as well... With... both of you... if I'm being honest. Do you think she would... want you to do that though?"

If she was, I think I'd be moving in to real harem territory here... Is that even something that happens in real life!?

Minette nodded, but realizing you couldn't see, she spoke.

"Mhmm... After the bath, and you went to practice with the firearms... We... talked..." Minette continued to play with your ear and neck, trailing her hand gently across.

"She said... that she wants you... to be the happiest person in the world. She also said... that me, or anyone else, as long as they are... good... for you, she will be happy with..."

She stopped her gentle caressing.

"I... was going to sneak a kiss when I could... But..." Her hands went to yours then, and held them gently. "After hearing from Trudy... I think I can wait..."

You felt her move around a bit then, and she raised herself on her knees, and snuck a kiss on your cheek from behind over your shoulder.

"Cheeks... don't count."

"Oh." was all Hanako could really say after feeling Minette's lips on her cheek. She flushed, and brought a hand up to where she had been kissed, the feeling would probably linger there for the rest of the evening. She set there for a moment and reflecting on what she'd been told then turned to face the girl. "I don't deserve either of you..." she said, taking Minette's hands in her own, "But I'll do whatever I can to make myself worthy."

Still red faced, she closed her eyes and sighed. Not unhappily, but with the heavy weight of another's feelings. "She probably won't take the initiative will she? She's a little self conscious."

You heard Minette laugh softly.

"No... But... that's what makes her cute... too?" Minette squeezed your hand. "Oh? At first... I would... tease you... just so that she would show more drive. I know she would... try to be more brave each time I do something to you... It's really obvious... Trudy's feelings... yes..." She paused.

"She reminds me of my best friend..." Minette said. "Oh...! No, not in a kissing way... But... I wouldn't mind too?"

"No... that's not what I meant." She said more calmly, she took your hand then and guided you to face her properly.

Once you were turned around, she stared into your eyes.

"Hanako... I want you... to be the next person I kiss..." She then placed her index and middle finger on your lips. She smiled gently.

Hanako smiled as she looked into Minette's eyes, there was a certain gentle determination in them that seemed hard to resist. "Well, let's work together to make that happen then." she said. "I think... maybe this sort of thing is good. So let's do our best to make sure we can all be together."

Hanako drew the pale haired girl in and hugged her tightly. It was nice to feel like there was somewhere to belong. First with Trudy, now with Minette too. It stirred a feeling of passion within her, not romantic per se, but a drive to want to succeed. It was a new sensation for her. "I'm going to do everything I can to make this country, no, this world a place where we can spend every day like this morning. I promise."

"I know you will." Minette said gently. She nuzzled her face into your neck when you hugged her, and even though you couldn't see, her light movements and tone in her voice told you that Minette too was still smiling wide.

Hanako let the moment last for a little while longer before she finally sat back. "As much as I'd like stay like this... I do actually have a few less pleasant things that we need to talk about."

She sighed, resentful that business had to resume. "Namely, slaves and the upcoming meetings with slavers."

"More... meetings... Yes... there's another one tomorrow too. What... did you want to talk about? Klein had many slave owners and merchants come by... And more will likely still come. We can always ask them not to... Do you have anything you have in mind?"

"I think it might be too suspicious to stop them all from coming, but it's certainly a nuisance to have to deal with a meeting like that almost every day. Maybe we can start cancelling every other visit from a slaver just to stop having to deal with it. It's a little late for tomorrow though." Hanako said, shifting into business mode.

"Out of curiosity, how much does it cost to purchase a slave, and how many did Klein usually buy from these people. It's... a moral problem for me to not free them once I see them, but I don't know if its financially viable to buy every single slave that gets brought here."

"It depends on the purpose and skills of each slave... Soldiers like Trudy and I... are at a minimum of 500 gold pieces usually... Along with any other slave that might have special purposes, or trained skills... Sometimes they can be as much as 1,500 depending on the person..."

"Those that aren't skilled in any way... either for household cleaning, or hard labor, can vary from 50 to 250 gold pieces. Depending on how healthy they are, or how attractive."

"How troublesome..." Hanako groaned, rubbing her temples. "How many are usually brought when they come visit? We can't really afford to buy them all, and every new person will make the boats that much more cramped."

Hanako shifted in her seat. "I guess... lemme hear your thoughts on it. I'll have to go talk to Aldric about what he needs to do tomorrow so I'm trying to come to a decision."

"They aren't brought with them all the time... They only bring ones they think Klein would make use of immediately in his home... The ones he uses for... pleasure."

She shook her head.

"Sometimes they do bring them though... That's when Klein would go out and see the slaves themselves... Not every slave owner can afford the extravagant magical collars Klein uses... So many times... slaves are kept in barred carriages or wagons. Many times... Klein would simply buy slaves from the merchants he trusts more that will give him hard-working ones for the mines... For soldiers... he looks at them himself... to prevent fraud... Especially if it's from the small-time slave dealers who can disappear after a bad trade..."

"Just with Klein's own current assets... He had enough to buy at least another 300 workers if he chose to, to fill his third mine. And to fill his lumberyard, he would have still enough to purchase another 300 for that... If we used up everything Klein had in his bank... Perhaps 1,000 slaves are achievable to buy... Though... that would leave nothing for operational costs... or emergency funds... or any other purchases... like equipment or land... along with no leveraging power for deals with other companies..."

"Many of these slaves... have been captured or taken from the surrounding villages... Foreigners like the Isikawans too at times. We can't save everyone... But if we were to buy them... Sending them to the lumberyard... Or even purchasing land near the port where the ships are held?"

"But... If any slaves are brought here to the estate though... I think... We should purchase them... It's all just numbers and head count... whether we buy them here or if the slaver has them off-site... But... I don't like letting my people go, if they could be saved and protected here in the estate easily..."

"Yeah, it would leave a bad taste in my mouth not to free them. Let's halve the amount of visits we get from slavers, and we can just buy everyone being offered from the meetings we do end up having. We can keep them here for the time being, then shuffle them around to the new lumber mill. More or less my goal was to supply 'workers' from the existing businesses to the mill, and then move everyone to the boats in waves before we leave."

Hanako scratched her chin in thought. "I should probably find out who runs that port. I'll probably have to go convince them to ignore whats going on... I still want to check out the mine that was marked on that map too. We can probably go there on a day without a meeting once we stop having some of the slavers visit."

"Some of the slave traders that Klein works with travel to that new port town as well at times. One of them could know... Unfortunately... We don't have anyone there..."

"Hanako... Can I ask when we plan to move everyone to the lumber mill? After it's created? I have an idea... potentially we can have Klein's slave to make their way to the lumberyard to help with its construction...? We... don't really need to build the actual lumber mill, correct? As long as it... looks like something is being built over there..?"

"That's a good idea, I was thinking something along those lines as well. We could probably start building longhouses or something that would look like lodgings for workers when the mill is completed, which unless Sofia does something with the property it never will be. Once we get the land purchased and all of that taken care of we could start moving people from the other businesses to help with construction."

Hanako crossed her arms and thought a bit. "They would probably have to stay collared... and for security reasons we would have to keep the true motivations behind the construction a secret from them. This could work though, and we might be able to get out of here sooner. When I speak with Aldric later I'll make sure he knows to ask about who's running that port."

She reached out and ruffled Minette's hair affectionately. "Great work!"

Minette blushed a bit. Surprising considering it took more usually to bring a flush to her face.

"Thanks..." Minette said timidly. "I always want to be of service to you..."

"I'm thankful for it. I think of you as more than someone that keeps the numbers straight though, you're a precious friend. Even though this is a dangerous world, I'm glad I ended up here because I got to meet someone like you."

Hanako decided to push away the little thought that sprung up in the back of her mind: I wonder if we would still be this close if I wasn't a 'hero'...?

"I... have a request, Hanako..." Minette said as she took your hand back into hers.

"Will you... kiss Trudy soon...?"

Hanako blushed again. She was doing that a lot lately, especially due to the actions of her companions. "Y-yeah I can try." she said, stuttering a bit. "You think... I should set the mood or something first...?"

She turned her head to the side and looked wistfully off into the middle distance, her eyes almost sparkling like in a shoujo manga. "It... would be my first time..."

My maiden heart!

"I... would offer to practice..." Minette suggested as she smiled. "But... First Trudy... I would... feel like I'm taking something I shouldn't..."

"Yes... Set the mood first... Do something for her... Take her somewhere you can be together alone..."

"Mmmmm... do you have any recommendations...? I haven't really left the estate much so I don't know any good spots." Hanako said, cocking her head to the side and tapping her lip.

"Outside..? It's dangerous... even in the cities where people are taken off the streets..." Minette shook her head. "I lived in the capital when we were sent here into this new world... I don't know much of Elstergen... But... Before the war, and before the metallic walls were placed around the city, this used to be a beautiful town... Not a lot of garden keeping exist anymore... except for the noble's estates and villas. There used to be a large park at the center of the city, but... sadly... it's overrun by weeds, with no care-takers for the last few years."

"If I were to recommend something... The gardens around the estate... At the center of Klein's small hedge maze is a place to sit... The soldiers continue to maintain the gardens..."

"That's a good point. The gardens here sound good, so I guess I'll take her out there. The hedge maze will be fun anyway."

Hanako smiled at Minette. "Alright, operation 'Blushing Maiden' is a go! I'll get that kiss before the end of the week!" she declared.

"Okay...!" Minette said happily. "Then... me." She smiled gently at you, then let go of your hand.

QuoteMention what else you want to do for the rest of the day!

"Of course!" Hanako replied with a grin. "I better go meet with Aldric and talk to him about tomorrow, I'll see you later tonight!"

Hanako left the room with a little spring in her step, thinking about taking a little private walk with Trudy made her heart skip a beat.

I guess it's kind of like a date. she thought, then stopped in her tracks in the empty hallway. Oh god it's a date.

You find Aldric hard at work practicing Klein's signature.

"Hanako! Thought you might swing by..." Aldric said as he stopped his practicing.

"I know we have slavers coming... And the first one is tomorrow! Any guidance? Not sure if you'd like to purchase the lot of them, or if you are actually looking for anything specific..."

"Whatever they bring, buy. I have a moral imperative to save as many people as I can. We're planning on halving the number of visits though, unfortunately I can't purchase everyone from a life of servitude and the more people that visit this estate the more likely it is that we are discovered."

Hanako pinched the bridge of her nose, rubbing small circles where the endless barrage of life threatening situations was beginning to make the corners of her eyes darken.

"How is your forgery coming along?"

"Fairly good... all things considered. I might not have it fully down by tomorrow, but it should be alright enough..."

QuoteAldric will be planning to use up all free 8 hours with expedited training. After that, he'll be doing forced expedited training to complete the rest.

"Would you like a hand? I've got it down pretty well myself. I could help you for a bit." Hanako said. She didn't doubt that he would have it mastered, but a little help never hurt anyone.

Location: Aldric's Room
Date: Day 9 - 7 PM

After the end of 4 hours, you managed to help him with his own attempt at forgery. With his own attempts, he managed to finally get it down. Dinner had just started as well, and two of Aldric's fellow actors had come up.

"Aldric! Come get some-" One of them said, but paused when they noticed you.

"Oh, Frau Hanako! We were about to get Aldric down for some food. I swear the estate is pretty lively... I've been at a noble's mansion before as entertainment, and it's not a common sight to see everyone in the house, not just the nobles, talkative and light..."

The other actor nodded.

"It's quite something you have going here..."

QuoteTrainings
Aldric - Klein's Signature: 4/4

"Just people enjoying what freedom they've got I guess." Hanako replied then made for the door.

"I guess if dinner is up for grabs I should go down as well."

When you made for dinner, some of the guards alerted you of more wagons coming by, but soon enough Elyse informed you that they were more of Sofia Leiningen's slaves as part of the contract that was made.

"More should be coming throughout the week... Primarily care-takers of the estate, and gardens." Elyse had explained.

QuoteFeel free to note any other plans for the rest of the evening.

"Ah, good. While I've got you here for a second, can I ask you about the port where the ships are docked? Specifically, who runs the place?" Hanako asked after being informed about the new arrivals.

"The docks that contain the ships you ordered from Frau Leiningen? Yes, Sofia did have me memorize some details related with that."

"The ships themselves are at the Bruchburg docks, located on our eastern coast. Our government, back before the demons had taken over, realized the importance of a navy once we had our slice of land dropped here. Originally, our country only had a single coastline, while we were surrounded by neighboring nations... Now, we find ourselves in much the opposite situation. Nevermind the fact that we've lost most of our country's infrastructure and economy, we also found ourselves surrounded by water instead, with demons as our neighbor."

"The person who runs the place is a symphasizer for the demons, one by the name of Klaus Sauer. And there are bound to be some demons there as well guarding the docks, being strategically important."

"Klaus Sauer huh, and demons guarding the docks? I imagine he answers to the demons and not the other way around yeah? Maybe he can be convinced to turn a blind eye to whats going on in the port..." Hanako mused. It was expected that there would be a demon presence at the docks, but Hanako had expected it to be an administrator instead of guards. She wondered if her powers would be capable of manipulating demons as easily as it worked on humans.

"Do you think he would accept an invitation from Klein to come visit the estate? Under the pretense of greasing the wheels for future exports obviously."

"Convinced? Well... if we can somehow guarantee his safety, I suppose. Like most other sympathizers, it's based on greed. That man was probably offered something to continue managing the docks for the demons. Maybe it's his life, or he was actually given incentive. At least, the previous mayor of the town was brutally murdered by the demons after all."

Elyse nodded when you brought up a potential visit.

"Yes... It's no secret that Klein had been attempting to set up a way to export since the demons took over. Inviting that man over would probably work... Though... From what I know, there is a demon that's always around him, at least in Burchburg. Matters of the docks are more of an importance to the demons, so it's likely they would prefer to keep an eye on him."

"Maybe we could have him here on a social call then, to avoid any demons coming along. I think if I offer him the right incentive he'll be sympathetic to our cause. The real question is how much can he influence the demons to leave a section of the docks unguarded when it's time to move people on the boats."

Hanako stuffed her hands into her pockets and leaned left an right to pop her back. "Either way, we can put off talking to him until everyone has been relocated to the new lumber mill site. Thank's for the info, I'll see you later."

With that she left and made her way to her bedroom, wondering if Trudy and Minette were already there.

Location: Your Room
Date: Day 9 PM

Arriving at your room, both Minette was already in there, while Trudy must have been still out and about the estate. Minette was on the bed, and she seemed to have been reading a book.

"Hanako... Trudy is still making her rounds... I saw her talking with Falah before I went here... though..."

"Oh, that's good. Hopefully seeing the two of them walking around together will sort of diffuse the animosity everyone has for her..." Hanako said, stretching. She wasn't quite ready for bed, and figured that since there was time before Trudy came back to the room she would indulge a little in a hobby from a former life. She looked around the room for paper and some kind of writing implement.

"So what are you reading?" she asked Minette after she found what she was looking for and settled in to a chair and started working.

QuoteFeel free to describe it.

Minette had glanced curiously at you, when you made your way toward's the desk propped up against a wall, near the bed. When she noticed you were drawing something, she was curious, but continued to read her book.

"An Isikawan dictionary." Minette said. "I already learned how to speak it... But since we might be going there... I wanted... to make sure my Isikawan is ready. Much like Japanese... many of their characters are similar too... but there are differences as well. Someone familiar with Isikawan... can probably understand and read Japanese much faster, than if they were to attempt to learn Refedorian..."

"How about you...?" Minette asked, as she started to sit up from the bed. "What are you making?"

"That's a pretty good idea, we might be there a while so it'll be helpful." Hanako said, sketching away at the paper.

"I never told either of you what I used to do for a 'living' before coming here did I? I was an artist... kind of. I made uhh... a certain kind of... how best to describe it... adult picture books? Anyway, I was feeling inspired after this morning so I figured I would work on this." she explained, and put the finishing touches on her drawing. A simple black and white sketch of a particular blonde young woman who happened to be very close to her.

Spoiler

(https://i.imgur.com/0I8b7jD.jpg)

[close]

"How's that look?"

"That's... Trudy?" Minette asked when she eventually came over to look over the sketch. She then shot you a sly glance and smile.

"I recognize those curves." Minette said teasingly. "I never knew... you were such a good artist... It's something I've never tried before."

She moved back towards the bed and settled into it.

"Do... you like to draw?" Minette asked. "I like to read... and learn new things... Ever since the war, that hasn't happened often... But I'm sure we'll all have the time to do the things we want to... To read, to draw..."

"Yeah, I suppose I do. It's been a while since I did it for fun though." Hanako said, twirling the pen in her fingers. "I could teach you a bit how to do it, its like any other skill really. Just takes practice. Maybe once we get out of the country we'll have a little more time for leisure."

She set the pen down and went to the bed, flopping down on her back across it. "Shouldn't take too long once we get things moving I think. Just need to get the 'lumber mill' started, and I need to do something about the guy that runs the port."

Once you climbed over to the bed, Minette, who was just about to pick up the book and start reading, changed her mind and instead placed the book back down on the table next to the bed on her side.

Her eyes shone slightly mischievously, as she began to get comfortable next to you.

"It's okay... It would be nice to learn how to draw with you. The lumber mill and the port can come later tomorrow though..." She began to move her arm and hand over your waist to hold on to you, and proceeded to scoot in closer.

"I tease Trudy by clinging to you... Then she would cling to you more... But sometimes..."

"... sometimes I just want to hold you."

Hanako smiled and ran her fingers through Minette's hair. "I don't mind. she said, and wrapped her own arm around the girl and pulled her close.

"Don't tease her too much, though it is cute to watch her blush when you do..."

It was a pleasant moment to punctuate the day, relaxing, with a warm feeling of comfort that washed over her. She thought about the promise that she made earlier that day.

"I'll take her out to the garden tomorrow, in the morning I think. It would be a good way to start the day."

A faint flush was on Minette's cheeks, much like the time back it was in the study with her. She continued to hold you close, and stare into your eyes in a gentle and affectionate way.

She smiled when you mentioned Trudy.

"Good... kiss her gently, she's been wanting to... You can tell by how she acts around you." Minette began to shift her legs closer to you, in an entwining movement, she continued to hold you close though, as if both the things she were doing were completely normal.

Hanako felt the heat of her blood rushing to her face as Minette wrapped herself around her. "I'll uhh, do my best..." she said. Somehow even after a week of this, it made her heart beat faster whenever one of the girls got so... close. Hanako guessed that's just what it meant to be human. You could be exposed to this kind of thing almost constantly and it would still make your heart skip a beat.

"I wonder how much longer she'll be out making rounds?"

"More of the others... are looking towards her for help and guidance... She is... actually pretty... popular with both the soldiers and the others..."

"But why...? Do you want to end this so soon?" Minette asked in a pouting matter.

A moment after that, the door creaked open, it was Trudy, in her soldier's outfit.

"Hanako! Trudy! You two are already here... Sorry, it's been busy for me... I've been trying to get the others to open up more to Falah, but... There's a lot of people that don't like or trust her. They won't tell me in front of me of course, but you can kinda tell..."

As she explained, she began to undress, though, like before, she turned herself around to have her back towards the two of you, while she blushed.

"Oh, no it was just an idle question... Ah there she is." Hanako said as Trudy came in through the door.

Quote"There's a lot of people that don't like or trust her. They won't tell me in front of me of course, but you can kinda tell..."

"It's gonna take some time, don't let it bother you. People don't usually change their minds overnight." Hanako reassured her. She watched as the girl turned to face away and undress as the urge to say something teasing worked its way up to the forefront of her mind. She relented.

"You don't have to be so modest... It's just us girls right?"

Shameless, but classic.

"O-oh... A-ah..." Trudy said as she began to turn around. She was indeed blushing, and seemed to blush more from your comment. She was in the middle of taking off her outfit, but she proceeded to continue as she turned towards you.

She began to take off her clothes then, and like before she was in just her panties and bra. She began to reach for her pajamas next.

As Trudy reached for her pajamas, again the thought of teasing her came across Hanako's mind.

Minette has influenced me way too much.

She stretched out a hand, and crooked a finger in a "come hither" motion while patting the bed with her other hand.

"H-hanako..!" Trudy said flushing a deeper red. "I haven't even put on my pajamas yet..."

"Bring 'em over here and put them on in a sec!" she replied smiling. "I've got something to ask you first!"

She continued to pat the spot on the bed next to her. The teasing was probably a little out of character, but for whatever reason Hanako felt mischievous at the moment.

"O-oh... o-okay...." Trudy said as she grabbed her pajamas, then strode her way up to the bed. Still a bright red, she sat next to you, right where you patted.

"W-what are you going to ask me...?" Trudy asked, bringing up the courage to look into your eyes.

Now that she was so close, Hanako suddenly felt an overwhelming wave of very complex emotions. Primarily embarrassment and a lot of anxiety, but there was quite a bit of excitement in there too. It was all fun and games until it actually came time to ask Trudy to meet her for what was essentially a date. Hanako's face flushed, and she could feel her heart rate pick up.

Calm down. You're just asking her to meet you by the hedge maze tomorrow morning...

She took a deep breath to steady herself and placed a hand over Trudy's. Then she leaned in next to her ear. "Can you meet me out by the hedge maze in the garden tomorrow morning?" she whispered softly and gave the girl's hand a squeeze.

Continuing to blush, Trudy's face was one of embarrassment at first, but quickly turned into a smile.

"Y-yes! Of course..." Trudy said cheerily as she squeezed your hand back. "Just me and you? I would love that so much!"

"Just me and you." she said with a wide smile. Trudy's excitement filled Hanako's chest with a sort of swelling warmth, and she found herself to be a little excited too.

"For now let's get cuddled up, its been a long day and I need some skinship to recharge!" and started to pull both girls up toward her, even though Trudy hadn't had time to put her pajamas on.

Minette who was already clinging to your side was pulled in closer, while Trudy found herself falling into you.

"Aah.." Trudy began. Once she was pulled close, it didn't take long for her to be at ease.

"My pajamas..." She mumbled softly to herself. But a moment later, she began climbing into bed, under the covers still anyways.

She couldn't look at you in the eye however, and only timidly began shifting herself under the covers.

"Mmm~! Mmm~!" Hanako hummed a chipper little nonsense tune and rubbed her cheek against Trudy's bare shoulder. She managed to slip her arms around both girls and intertwined her fingers with theirs. "Oooh~! I can feel my strength returning... This is truly the way to recover from a busy day!"

After a few moments she whispered, more to herself than anyone else present; "I hope we can stay this way forever."

"Oh...That would be nice..." Minette said, as she gently smiled.

Trudy continued to flush red though, especially when you continued to rub your cheek on her shoulder.

"I w-would like that..." She said dreamily. "Forever..."

---

Before Trudy finally fell asleep, you heard her whisper and talk to herself.

"Hedge... maze... with Hanako..." She said softly, and she let out a short giggle. Her breathing was steady an rhythmic, telling you that she was indeed fast asleep.

---

Location: Your Room
Date: Day 10 - 6 AM

The morning eventually came, both Minette and Trudy were fast asleep. Trudy never wore her pajamas, and she remained in her panties and bra. She seemed to get more comfortable with the idea. At the very least, what Trudy was wearing was very much similar to Minette's, in the fact that she wore nothing but the bare minimum.

QuoteSlaver will be coming by very soon, around 7-8 AM. Feel free to post any potential preparations, state how many soldiers you might have 'up front', and etc.

Hanako got out of bed as quietly and as quickly as possible, though she did take a moment to admire her sleeping companions. The sight brought a smile to her face, but she tried not to linger too long and got dressed in her soldier uniform. After finishing up the usual morning routine of washing her face and the like she made her way downstairs and started to prepare for the slaver's arrival.

Quote-10 MP
Trudy, Minette, +8 soldiers

"Alright... So we'll go ahead and purchase any slave the slaver brings to us. Do you think I should bring up reducing our meetings with the slaver? Sending each of them letters beforehand though of the change might work... Ah, Minette?" Aldric asked as he turned towards the demihuman soldier.

"Oh? Hmm..?"

"Do you know how Klein's dealings with the slavers started?"

Minette nodded.

"He had requested slavers to come by his estate in the mornings. Usually they would leave us a letter stating when they'll drop by, or potentially follow up with a previously scheduled meeting. With Klein being a business man in need of slaves, the word's already spread around that he's looking to buy."

Aldric thought for a moment, then turned towards you.

"We could potentially try telling him to spread the word that we no longer need slaves too... But I'm not sure."

"As much as I would be glad to not have to deal with them dropping by entirely, I think it would be too suspicious to stop them all from coming." Hanako tapped her fingers against her thumb, thinking. "I think... you could probably just say something along the lines of looking to buy less. Maybe that will make them think of this as a less profitable place to come by."

It was already shaping up to be a long day. The promise of what was to happen after the meeting however, was reward enough to make Hanako want to resolve the issue quickly.

"Very well..." Aldric said as he nodded. Soon enough the preparations were complete, and it wasn't long until one of the soldiers on watch came back in to report that a carriage followed by a wagon was approaching.

The carriage was being driven by a coach, though there were 6 soldiers that surrounded them. Each of them wore the regular uniforms that your own soldiers wore, and they also had collars around them. The wagon that was being pulled by two horses seemed to have a tarp over it, so it wasn't visible to see what was inside.

The soldier you had posted outside approached the group, with one of the slaver's soldiers handing him a letter. Soon enough the outer gates were opened, and the carriage along with the wagon started making their way into the estate.

Once the carriage stopped, a man appeared from it, he had round glasses that almost made his eyes seem to pop up more, along with a tall hat. In terms of girth, the man rivaled Aldric or Klein in weight.

"Helmut Klein!"  The fat slaver roared out loud, staring at Aldric who was at the entrance to the estate. "Already out here to greet me? Well, this is a first! But it just means you're interested in my goods, eh?"

Aldric nodded, as you heard Minette, hidden still inside the estate whisper to Aldric.

"Herr Burkhardt  Cramm. Age 47. Has as many or more soldier slaves as Klein. Prefers Refedorian wizenbock for alcohol. Kleins calls him Burkhardt. He's one of the first slavers Klein dealt with... and the slaver who sold him the most of his soldiers..." Minette quickly tried to explain.

Aldric never took his eyes off the new slaver.

"Burkhardt!" Aldric responded back heartily. "I'm always interested in your goods!" Aldric laughed loudly. "As you can see, the ones I've procured from you thus far have been quite good." He grinned as he stepped forward outside, planning to meet up with the slaver.

The slaver made his way up to, and the two men briefly shook hands.

"Gained a bit of weight lately Helmut?" Burkhardt Cramm asked. "I heard some rumors too going around about you... But we can discuss it all once we get inside."

The slaver grinned.

"I have some goods I know you'd be interested in." He winked.

"Looking forward to see it old friend." Aldric declared as he lead the way into the estate.

"Old friend? You're not looking for a discount, are you? You know I keep my prices fair."

"Of course Burkhardt, I'll ensure to pay for what you ask. Now, tell me about the goods? You brought any with you? Couldn't help but notice the wagon."

"I have some interesting ones you might like." Burkhardt said, when he noticed you however he spoke. "Well, it looks like you have an Isikawan already..."

As the assembly filed into the estate, he eventually lead the way to the meeting room. From there, he opened up a briefcase on the table, and pulled out some papers.

"I have here the profiles for each of the soldiers I have that I'm willing to sell. A batch of 17 this time around. But..." With that, Burkhardt shifted over two papers over to Aldric. "I don't normally trade in exotic goods, as you know, but these two might interest you enough that I figured I'd bring them..." He flashed a toothy grin.

Aldric looked over the papers quickly.

"An Isikawan and a... Valkyrie?" Aldric asked questioningly.

"Yes, from the Hierdsvain Valkyrie kingdom, at least what's left of it. She's heavily sedated, and I have one soldier keeping watch on her at all times... However..." He smiled earnestly.

"You'd be the first slave owner I know of that has their hands on one." He winked.

A valkyrie...?

Aldric grinned as he stared at the papers.

"These the only two you brought with you?" Aldric asked.

"Yes... They're both in the wagon at front, with one of the soldiers guarding them. The Valkyrie is heavily sedated, and won't wake up for another few hours most likely."

"I'll buy both of them!" Aldric declared. Burkhardt smiled in response.

"Great!" He said, pulling out two more forms. "I figured you would, so I already prefilled these forms... Just sign like before. Both the slaves already have the collar you prefer, and we can proceed with the binding ritual after too." With that, the man pushed the forms over to Aldric.

This time, Aldric grinned, and going to the place on the paper to sign, he wrote his name 'Klein' in a perfect replica of the man's signature.

"With business out of the way... I did hear some things about you...."

Aldric raised an eyebrow.

"Primarily that you've holed yourself up in your estate... You were planning the hero ritual, right? I was expecting you to visit on that day too, but you never arrived. I didn't think much of it though, since I was planning to visit you again today..."

"Ah, yes..." Aldric began. "Realized it's not my place to handle such things."

"Did you even find everything you needed to get that to work? A mage versed in the summoning ritual is quite rare, not to mention the summoning runes..."

Aldric shrugged, but chose not to say much on the topic.

"It's a pity... The government would have paid a lot to get their hands on a hero." He paused. "Well, maybe. They might have been just as likely to kill you, too."

Burkhardt himself laughed.

"Well, no worries about that." He began to pull out a stack of papers. "I'm glad you decided to buy the two, the price is more than fair for the Valkyrie though. As far as I know, I'm the first slaver to get my hands on one... And likewise, you would be the first nobleman to own one. Even if you can't say you have a hero, having a Valkyrie might be the next best thing."

Aldric nodded.

QuoteYou could attempt perception to see the prices listed, otherwise just wait to talk with Aldric later.

Burkhardt pushed the stack of papers to Aldric.

"The profiles for the 17 soldiers. None of them are particularly skilled, such as Minette that I sold you before." Burkhardt said as he eyed the demihuman soldier with them. "It's a good batch. A couple of experienced fighters in it. Interested in these?"

Aldric began flipping through the papers, reading each one carefully, and feigning interest in them as well.

"How many other nobles are you working with today?"Aldric asked, his eyes still reading through the stack of papers.

"Just you. You need more time to go through the list?"

Aldric flashed a quick eye towards you, then proceeded to ponder.

"I plan to expand soon, as you know I'm sure. So soldiers would always be good... However... I need to ensure that what I'm getting are good too. I'm trying to cut some costs you see. Expanding into Flensberg will be a costly endeavor, so I'll need to go through these more carefully than before."

"I've been considering selling more of the mining site rights I have to the competing companies, which would allow me to secure enough funding for the expansion to Flensberg."

"Very well... If you'd like I can come by tomorrow morning instead once you look through those, all I really need is the signature, and I assure you the prices are fair."

Hanako assumed a submissive posture, letting her shoulders slacken and she looked at the floor. "Master, we have the meeting in Elstergen tomorrow..."

"Hmph... Yes, that's right." Aldric said. Ensuring he was obnoxious about it, he then flashed his eyes in anger towards you, but continued.

"We're planning to have a meeting in Elstergen tomorrow, so I would prefer if I can mail these to you instead. That would be fine, right?"

"Surely I can come by after or before your meeting... I have a few of the soldiers here in the city as well in holding that I can bring over. Yes?"

"I'll need time to go through each of these profiles, Burkhardt. Not to mention I've been thinking of funneling more of my current resources from here in Elstergen into Flensberg, so I will be planning to reduce the number I buy. I'll go through these profiles carefully, and check my current roster to compare if any of them I would need. Unfortunately, I'm not sure if I'll buy any from briefly glancing at them. But I will send a courier to get these to you if I do make a purchase."

Burkhardt sighed.

"Very well then... Well, I'll be expecting word from you tomorrow. If you do make purchases, please be sure to send them to me as early in the day as possible. I have a meeting with another client later."

Aldric nodded as Burkhardt stood up to collect the signed papers; the one of the Isikawan and the Valkyrie. Both signed by Aldric. Aldric grinned as he noted Burkhardt's sour expression.

"Fear not Burkhardt! These exotic goods you sold me will get some use."

Burkhardt laughed in response nodding in understanding.

"I understand 'old friend'. But I suppose this was the reason why you called me that when I arrived here. Reducing business with you will lose out a good client... You purchased a lot over the years. But business is booming since our new overlords." He shrugs. "I suppose you want me to look for truly unique specimens, rather than soldiers?"

Aldric nodded.

"Only a few, I can't very well afford to buy everything with the new ventures I plan. But yes, spread the word to other merchants that I'm looking for less, and probably wouldn't be interested in buying... If they think they have something absolutely irresistible, then sure, of course."

Burkhardt nodded as he finished packing his briefcase.

"Very well, have a few of your soldiers help with the Isikawan and the unconscious Valkyrie." Burkhardt explained.

---

Soon enough a couple of your soldiers followed the man outside, moving the covers off the wagon, it revealed two cages. One of the cages had an unconscious girl that had white hair, while the other was an Isikawan. Both weren't wearing much. You noted that the one who was likely a 'valkyrie', was rather short, and young-looking. If you were to guess she looked like a child. Burkhardt explained that each of them had possessions as well, which was included in the price for each.

The enslavement ritual didn't take very long, much like the contractual magic you prepared before, Burkhardt took some blood from Aldric with a needle, then had Aldric sign each of the contracts. After binding that to the collars, the process was complete.

Afterwards Burkhardt and Aldric bid their farewells to each other, and soon enough Klein Company had two more under their care.

Both of them in collars, with the Valkyrie still unconscious, and a large chest filled with their belongings. The Isikawan girl had been glaring at Aldric for the entire time, though Aldric did his best to ignore her.


When she spoke, your translation ability triggered, but the rest in attendance, except for Minette couldn't understand her. Aldric shrugged then glanced towards you.

Presuming Burkhardt was safely away, Hanako stretched and then popped her own collar off with a satisfied grunt. "Hnnnn~ That's better. I don't think I'll ever get used to having to wear these in unpleasant company."

Before speaking to the collared and disgruntled Isikawan woman Hanako went around and freed the others that had participated in the ruse. Afterwards she walked over to the captive woman and looked her over curiously. "Wow... Everyone says I look like an Isikawan, but now that I've actually met one I can understand why. Oh, but where are my manners?"

She placed her hands on the front of her thighs and bowed in greeting. "Nice to meet you, I'm Hanako Okita."

She straightened up and put a hand to her chin in thought. "If I take that off you and explain the situation here, do you promise not to try and fight me or escape?"

The Isikawan girl stared in shock as you first disabled your collar. She blinked her eyes in confusion, and quickly stared towards Aldric who didn't seem pertrebed at all. As you went from person to person disabling their collars too, the Isikawan girl was even more surprised.

"What- Aren't you-" Eventually you stood in front of her and introduced yourself.

"You can... take the collar off?" She asked, her eyes wide. She glanced at you then back to Aldric and finally back to you again.

She spoke slower and more calmly this time.

"My name is Akiyama Nene." She announced as she looked at you directly. You noticed that she had a Japanese-like name, with her last name being used first, before her first.

"Who are you...?" She asked, her eyes still staring at you.

"You're an Isikawan? Yet you speak for this Refedorian noble..?" She glanced warily at Aldric.

"Japanese" Hanako said, "Though I guess our cultures probably share some similarities."

She looked back at Aldric, who probably could only understand half the conversation. She wasn't sure exactly how the translation worked. "He's a paid actor, not a noble. More or less I run things here, though it was a situation kind of forced on me. Nobody here wants to hurt you, and as soon as you reassure me that you aren't going to start a fight I'll take that collar off. Though I really wouldn't recommend trying to leave, you'll just end up getting recaptured and sold off to someone."

Hanako put her hands in her pockets and put her weight all on one foot, a casual posture indicating she wasn't a threat. "I can explain better, but it would be best if we got back inside."

Aldric nodded at your explanation, understanding your words, but wasn't able to understand Nene. When you began explaining the situation, hope started to fill her eyes.

She nodded her head when you finished explaining. "If what you say is true, then please accept my apologies." Nene said as she bowed with her arms to her side at a 45 degree angle towards both you and Aldric. Finally her eyes roamed back up, catching yours.

"If you can remove my collar, that would be much appreciated." Nene said, holding on to that hope she had started to feel.

"Japanese? I've never heard of that before... The way you unbound the collars, is that some sort of magic of your people? You know my language at least... But yes, lets go inside... Having a paid actor working as a noble in country ruled by demons is probably no small feat."

She said as her eyes went over to the unconscious Valkyrie who was still heavily sedated. When Burkhardt left them in your care, his men had simply left her on the ground for your soldiers to take care of.

"It'll still be a couple of hours until she awakes, they usually heavily sedate her, as she can be formidable when awake..."

"No worries, given the situation it's a reasonable reaction." Hanako said waving away the apology. "I can explain the situation a little better later on, but let's get you out of the collar first."

With that, she did the usual and concentrated on the collar a moment to release it.

"That should take care of that. There aren't many people here who can speak Isikawan, but Minette is pretty fluent so she can show you around and get you situated. I think we still have some free beds, probably." she turned to the soldiers that were there and instructed them to take the valkyrie inside carefully and find her a private room to rest in. Hanako elected not to remove the collar on her neck at the moment, considering the remark about the girl being "formidable". Speaking to her would have to come later when she was awake.

She turned back to Nene, and gave a short bow by way of apology. "Sorry that we'll have to get more acquainted later today Akiyama-san, but I made a promise to someone yesterday and if I don't hurry I'm gonna be late. Minette, if you could please show her around that would be great." she said with a smile.