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"Reinhold," Sir Gregory says, adressing you directly. "I heard from Nicolette about what happened earlier this morning."

You freeze up upon hearing his words. Is he angry with you? Was Monique a friend of his? You know Sir Gregory to be a rather frightening individual, and would really like to avoid facing his wrath...

...so you decide to play it off as if nothing happened. After all, Nicolette is your friend and she probably worded your actions in a positive light. Right?

"Oh?" you reply innocently.
"Yes, she told me that you got involved in an argument she was having with Monique Gilbeault and then proceeded to punch him in the face."
"Er, yeah, that did happen..."
"Hm."

Sir Gregory turns away from you for a few moments, placing his hand on his chin as if deep in thought.

"I myself would have been -sorely- tempted to take his life, so I suppose that I must commend you on your restraint." he says with a scowl.
"S- seriously?" you say, taken aback. Monique may have been an asshole, but you don't think that he did anything THAT bad...
"Yes, well I'm rather... intolerant of those who anger me," he replies, clenching his fist. "It's one of several reasons why I am not suited to be the Princess's bodyguard, as she can attest."
"That I can," Princess Marianne says from behind you, having already taken a seat.
"...anyways, you may want to be wary of that man in the future," Sir Gregory says, giving a long sigh. "Nicolette wouldn't have had any problems had she been the one who punched him, but someone like you has less of a social backing, so to speak."
"Er, I'll keep that in mind," you reply with a salute.

Then you take your place at guard in the back of the room as Sir Gregory begins his lesson.

>try to pay attention to the class
>focus on guarding instead
>[OTHER]

I never can seem to get these threads started on time... I do intend to keep running it to the wee hours of the morning though, as I have nothing to do tomorrow.

>>27269652
>try to pay attention to the class
What does Sir Greg teach again?

>>27269652

>>try to pay attention to the class

I'm all for being wary but this is a good chance to learn a bit more and we're in the castle so we should be fairly safe.

>>27269693
Politics and international matters.

>>27269707
We definitely need to know this if we're going to be a bodyguard.

>>27269652
>Implying bodyguards for royalty don't basically laugh in the face of minor nobility's bluster.

Seriously, our lives are given to defend the crown, the crown in turn ensures that our ability to do so isn't hampered by concern about who exactly we're guarding said crown from.

Anyways, >focus on standing guard

This is politics, we don't care, not knowing this isn't going to embarrass the princess if we're guarding her at an event.

>>27269722
not really, we're never going to negotiate, we're never going to address a foreign lord or powerful noble unless directly confronted by them, and that'd be a huge faux-pas on their part as we're "just the help".

>>27269809
I meant it more in the sense of "Well, this nation is hostile and we're going there next month. Better prepare!"

>>27269652

Focus on guarding first and foremost. Even if we're in the castle, it wouldn't do to be called out by Sir Gregory.

If we can safely split our attention though, maybe try to pick up bits and pieces of the class.

>>27269833
We don't need lessons for that, that's just an itinerary. the only lessons the princess will most likely be getting that we'll need to pay attention to are etiquette and heraldry.

>Pay attention

>writing

Figuring that it might do you some good to actually learn somthing about Granache's relationship with its neighbors, you make an attempt to pay attention to Sir Gregory's lesson.

Most of the class (that you managed to pay attention to) was about how Ancellotta, a country that sits on the eastern border of Marconetti, has been building up its army as of late. Sir Gregory thinks that it's a reaction to Marconetti's efforts to intimidate them into ending their slave trade, but there are other opinions that they're planning on a possible conflict with... another country that you didn't quite get the name of.

He then went on about the trade relationship between Granache and the aforementioned Marconetti, though you zoned out during that last part.

With Sir Gregory's class over, you follow the Princess to her next stop. As you enter the sparse room, you shudder when you realize what class this is.

Ballroom Dancing.

And Pauline is making a beeline towards you.

>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants
>accept whatever comes
>[OTHER]

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>>27270440
>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants

NOPE.

Rolled 18

>>27270440
>>accept whatever comes
hopefuly she does ;)

>>27270440
>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants

>>27270440
>>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants

>>27270440
>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants

>>27270440
>>accept whatever comes

Use it as a chance to develop more graceful footwork.

>>27270440

>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants

ABORT ABORT

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>>27270440
>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants

neinneinneinneinnneinneinnnein

>accept whatever comes

It totally be useful when we dance...hopefully it not the princess.

We can do better than tsundere that don't consider us as a fucking person.

>>27270440
>accept whatever comes
it's not like we can dodge this one.

>>27270440
>>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants

>>27270440
>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants

Hell no.

>>27270440
>accept whatever comes
Eh, being able to dance might come in useful one day. Also good for keeping fit.

Rolled 1

>>27270440
Accept it. Dancing may help us in the future. Also twin blade style is sometimes called blade dancer. Nearly everything has combat potential.

>>27270440
>accept whatever comes
getting good at dancing will help are footwork in combat

>>27270440
>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants

>writing

>>27270440
>>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants

>>27270440
>accept whatever comes

We're a royal bodyguard, a lot of our job is behaving ourself in formal situations, like dances.

>try and avoid getting involved in whatever it is that she wants


NOPE.

A feeling deep in the core of your being screams at you to RETREAT. But as the Princess's bodyguard, you know that you have to remain by her side.

Damn it all.

As if she's floating in the air, Pauline races towards you and grabs your hands.

"Why if it isn't Reinhold! Couldn't keep away, eh?" she says with a wink.
"Um... nice seeing you too," you say, trying your best to keep down your urge to run away from whatever cruel fate that she has planned for you.
"And Princess Marianne! You're as lovely as ever!" she says as she switches her attention to the Princess and holds her hands as well.
"Thank you, Pauline," the Princess replies.

Pauline then steps back and faces the two of you.

>[1/?]

>>27271044
>[1/?]
scared.jpg

>>27271044
We're gonna get paired up. Fuck.

Wow, I managed to miss six threads? That's pretty bad. I guess I gotta catch up.

>>27271044
>[2/2]

"Alright, let's get started! Reinhold, if you don't mind?" she says, motioning for you to take her hand.
"Actually, I think I'll just keep guard today?" you reply uneasily. "There was a bit of a ruckus this morning, and I'm still on edge."
"Is that so? What a shame..." she mumbles, an expression of genuine disappointment on the old lady's face. "Perhaps you'll be feeling more up to it next time, then!"

Returning to her previous smile, Pauline takes the Princess's hand and leads her to the center of the room. They then proceed to go over the same dance as the other day, and you sigh in relief that you were spared from the same fate.

As you watch them, yours and the Princess's eyes meet... and she looks quite annoyed with you. But you shrug that off and continue to keep guard, taking care to stay well out of their way.

After about an hour of dancing, the lesson finally ends and the two of you say goodbye to Pauline before heading to your next destination. Having spent a few days in the castle, you quickly recognize that your next stop is the courtyard.

You open the door and check to see that everything is clear, then holding it open for the Princess to enter before following behind her. The two of you then sit down at a nearby table.

>say something
>wait for delicious tea
>[OTHER]

>>27271305
>>wait for delicious tea
If she doesn't like something, she needs to come out and say it. We're supposed to blend.

>>27271305
>>say something
"Were you... unhappy during class?"

>>27271259
well, if we play this right, it could work out for us.

>>27271343
Seconding this. If we ask, we invite trouble. Better to have her bring it up if she's really bothered, or drop it if she decides its not worth the trouble. Besides, who cares if she's being pissy? We're her guard, not her butler.

I mean, we could be both, a butler bodyguard is always awesome. But that's not the point.

>>27271305
maybe deep down princess WANTED to dance with us. or at least not with Pauline anyway.

>>27271305
>wait for delicious tea

>>27271305
>>27271440
oh and
>wait for delicious tea
but watch her if she wanted for us to speak up first.

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>>27271440
soon we will grope her

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>>27271497
.. i think she'll feel us up first.

>>27271305
>wait for the tea
if she wants to speak she'll let us know

>>27271305
>say something
"Do you like watching me dance?"

>writing

>>27271305
>say something

Ask her if she would prefer us to join her dance lessons next time.

>>27271519
i am surprisingly fine with this

>>27271305
Just wait.

>>27269627

Where was 8?

>>27271729
on /tg/

>>27271729

>>27271729
Last night. But questions like these are kind of dumb, obviously they quest took place while you weren't there.

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>wait for delicious tea


You decide to hold your tongue, assuming that the Princess herself would initiate conversation if there was anything that she wanted to say. The two of you sit quietly for a few minutes before the silence is broken by the sound of the door opening.

"Good afternoon, Princess. Reinhold," Arnaud says as he enters the courtyard, balancing a full teaset on one hand. "With any luck, this tea will help you forget the unpleasantness of this morning," he says as he places the taset onto the table and pours a cup for each of you.

"Thank you, Arnaud," Princess Marianne says as she takes her cup.
"Thanks," you reply as you do the same.
"...ah. About the matter of that messenger from before, your father suggested to me that you might also be interested in what he had to say," Arnaud says, bowing to the Princess.

>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying
>disregrd butlers, get tea
>[OTHER]

>>27271793
>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying

Always listen to the butler, and stay up to date on current events, it's important for our job.

>>27271793
>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying

>>27271729
here have the archive http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Princess%20Guard%20Quest

>>27271793
>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying
Knowing is half the battle, and the key to avoiding the other half.

>>27271793
>>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying

>>27271793
Pay attention while drinking.

>>27271793
>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying
Best to know what to expect.

>>27271793
>>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying
Knowledge is half the battle.
The other half is Violence

>>27271793
>pay attention

>>27271793
>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying

>>27271793
>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying
is there any other option.

>writing

>>27271793
>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying
NEVER. IGNORE. THE BUTLER.
Considering he's the chief male servant of the household, he'll known when shit's going down.

(IIRC general manservants are technically called Valets, and the whole 'car' thing is just one of their duties, or something.

>>27272126

Yup.

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>pay attention to what Arnaud's saying


Taking a quick sip of your tea in order to temporaily sate your thirst, you turn towards Arnaud.

"Apparently, the messenger was from the kingdom of Marconetti. As our trade treaty is due to be renewed, the King is sending his daughter Luciana to personally negotatiate new terms," he says.
"Luciana?" Upon hearing that name, Princess Marianne raises an eyebrow in surprise.
"Yes... It seems that both the messenger and Princess Luciana's caravan left the country at the same time, but he used Starlight Wing or some similar spell to fly to the border ahead of her to herald her arrival. Then he was intercepted at the border by that Gilbeault fellow, and I'm sure you know the rest," he finishes, looking at you.
"...I see. Thank you, Arnaud," the Princess replies.
"It's always a pleasure, Princess."

With that, Arnaud takes a deep bow and then exits the courtyard.

>say something
>don't say anything

>>27272522
Still don't say anything, she'll comment if she feels like.

>>27272522
>>don't say anything

>>27272522
>don't say anything

>>27272522
Don't say anything, but move a bit more into the center of the room. Nonverbal communication, ho!

>>27272522
>say something

"Princess, are you acquainted with Princess Luciana?

I would hazard a guess that the two of you will spend some time together during her visit and I would like to know what expect."

We're going to have two overlapping security details in place for the Princesses, knowing what to expect from her would be a good thing.

>>27272522
>say something
"Princess Luciana then? have you met with her before your highness?"

Op could you describe the appearence of the princess, please, or post a reference picture?

>>27272522
>say something
"Have you accepted R'hllor into your heart"

>>27272676
OP image is the reference for her.

>>27272522
>say something

Ask her about the other Princess.

We aren't mute and this is useful to know.

>>27272676
Marianne is like the OP picture IIRC, and we've never seen Luciana in our life.

>>27272522
>say something
"I need to know more about her and her own guards, if that is alright your highness. to work together better at least."

Just a reminder for everyone, from thread 4:
>"Oh yeah. There's that one princess from Marconetti, I forget her name. They get on alright, I guess. Haven't seen her in a while though."
Luciana is basically Marianne's only friend. Unless Marconetti has more than one princess.

>>27272522
>say something
"I believe Nicolette mentioned something about a Princess of Marconetti. Do you know her personally?"

>writing

Rolled 8

>>27272918
OP, how do we go about significantly improving our PC? Say, magically or "mundanely" (superhuman non-magic stuff).

I guess we could ask for pointers from Gregory or the mage girl for magic. Arnaud for swordsmanship? He certainly seems like a vet.

>>27273075
There are plenty of people around who know things that you don't. The first step to getting their assistance is to ask.

You guys seemed to be on that path already, which is why I didn't say anything before.

>>27273106

How old are we?

>>27273136
17 years old if I remember correctly.

>>27273136
Previous threads told us. Go read them.

>>27273136
Seventeen. Our princess is fifteen.

You glance over at the Princess, and are surprised by her expression. Though she's doing her best to keep up her usual emotionless mask, you can't help but notice a faint smile. And it's not the teasing ones that you've seen her make before, this one is... warm.

"Do you happen to know Princess Luciana?" you ask, curious about her reaction to Arnaud's message.
"We've known each other since we were babies, and I suppose that you can say that we're friends," she replies, taking a sip of tea. "Though it's been over a year since the last time I've seen her, we do correspond through letters."
"Huh. I guess you're happy that you'll finally be reunited in person, then," you say with a smile.

The Princess looks at you with a disdainful expression and then lets out a long sigh.

"I suppose you can say that," she replies. "Though she is here on business, so I have no idea if we'll have anything more than a short greeting when she arrives."

>keep talking
>time for tea

>>27273153

You could just tell me like >>27273147
>>27273162

>>27273190
>>keep talking

>>27273200
No, he was definitely right to redirect you, instead of spoonfeeding like I did.

>>27273200
I would've redirected you but I'm lazy.

>>27273136
Reinhold is 17.
Marianne and Melanie are 15.
Nicolette and Sylvie are 16.
Sir Gregory is 38.
Monique is 22.

You have no idea how old the others are.

>>27273262

Thank you, Archelon.

>>27273190
>keep talking
"Hm. All you can do, then, is hope that's not the case. Anything you can tell me about how her personal guard?"

>>27273190
>time for tea

>>27273190
>keep talking
"May I suggest we view my vast collection of butt plugs?"

>>27273262
>the Butler and Librarian are timeless immortals, sworn to the service of the royal family for all eternity
So THAT'S how they got such mad skills!

>>27273200
People helped you, why do you choose to be a cunt about it?

>>27273190
>TEA
Do not press the princess. It always ends with snobbery.

>inb4 double princess waifu

>>27273190
>keep talking

"Could you tell me more about her Princess?

I'd like to know what to expect should I happen to cross her path. I don't want to accidentally offend your friend as well as a dignitary from a nearby country."

And also drink some tea.

>>27273190
>keep talking
"well there is always hope, and i am sure you can clear your seduale for her. ... I defended your honor, your best friend is coming to see you. the day is getting better already."

>>27273320
woah man you mean we get to grope two princesses

>>27273325
She said friend, don't automatically assume best friend.

It might be true, but it still could be rude. Just say friend when we refer to her.

>>27273338
No. We get to not grope two princesses.

>>27273262
I swear I'm going to make a 1d4chan page for this quest just so I can remember which of these are girls and which ones are worth hitting on.

>>27273346
2 Princesses are going to grope us, whether we want them too or not.
Hooray for fuedalism?

>>27273338
No, but we DO get to quickly, silently, and paranoidly masturbate over two princesses in the dead of night in that 3.5 minute window where there are no guards patrolling the halls near your room.

>>27273350
We're only 17 so they're all in our range.

>>27273374
Now that shit is what I call job satisfaction!

>>27273433
To tell the truth, I don't want to put my dick in tsundere.
Yes on Nicollete and Magegirl though. Possibly both at once?
Maid too.

>writing

Magic: Mage Girl (most likely), Sir Gregory (more skilled, but less likely). Seeing as how we devoted out life to being the best swordsman I think we should ask for a curriculum focused around the following:
>Any magic that goes with swords (if it exists)
>Resisting, countering, dispelling and detecting magic.
>Protection/stealth magic, anything to help protect the Princess and get her to safety.
>Magic that enhances our physical abilities.

Fighting: Arnaud gives the impression of being a veteran. Sir Vincent and/or Nicolette could also work. Or all 3 to help round ourselves out. I think we're particularly lacking in ranged, although we may get around that with magic.

Librarian: Being a stealthy mofo? He can disappear and knows the ins and outs of the castle.

Equipment/Gear: Enchanted armor for magic resistance/improved durability. Maybe physical enhancements? Emphasize practicality but still being lightweight and innocuous, even concealable. Wrist bow/slingshot would be very good. Maybe we can get our sword enchanted for that. Maybe magical powders/potions. Particularly for healing. Medical supplies even if mundane.


>time for tea

>>27273458
>>27273433
>>27273374
>>27273371
>>27273346
>>27273338
>>/out/ to some shallow waifu quest.

>>27273350
If it helps, Reinhold is our MC, Marianne is I believe the Princess' name, Melanie, is a maid of hers, Nicolette is the captain of the castle guard or something - the Lancer chick - Sylvie is her mage apprentice friend, Sir Gregory is TATARI, and Monique is the Border Guard guy we decked.

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>>27273350
please do! i'll book mark it.
>>27273371
(pic related)

>>27273464
I am of the opinion that no one can ever have enough knives about their person. If I ever get my way, we're going loaded for knifebear

>>27273482
Oh shut up and have fun

>>27273484
You get a high five!

I think we should modify our copied map, give it a false key or something so that if it gets stolen it isn't really usable. Shift doors around, add/remove walls etc with notations that we can use to differentiate them, but will just confuse anyone else.

>>27273536
I like this play, but I worry you overestimate how good we are at this whole reading thing.

>>27273464
we need to check to see if we CAN do ANY magic at all. (i.i. we have no mana bar)

we will have state guests here. a better sword and armor should be aquired. i am all for magic armor that looks, feels, and lets us move like it's light armor, but protects like it's full plate.

>>27273464
Ranged and combat magic seem less important. I reckon we should focus on being even better at swording, and some basic utility magic just in case we wind up needing it.

>>27273536
Well for security, being tricksy with the map would be a good idea. But we don't want to confuse ourselves either.

>>27273529
>Oh shut up and have fun

The ever predictable cry of the shitposter. /v/ get moderated? NO FUN ALLOWED. There's a dozen different quests where you can explore your escapist fantasy of having a waifu.

>>27273551
'[symbol] = door' doesn't really require a high literacy level to comprehend.

>>27273571
Dude. Holy shit. Chill the fuck out.

We've decided a long time ago that this isn't going to be a waifu quest. Hell, the QM already said he doesn't want to -run- a waifu quest, so it's pretty obvious there's no danger.

>>27273571
Waifufaggotry is shit. Romance isn't inherently bad.
I do kind of reckon it's a bad idea on /tg/ though, don't want to give those waifufags an inch.
But then again, archelon's doing a good job keeping waifufaggotry from happening while we're tied all day long to one specific female, so maybe he's capable of getting even more dangerous without blowing up the world.

>>27273568
Less important, but still worth having for when we want to get a quick shot at a distance, or in a situation where we don't/can't get close. Swordsmanship is our strongpoint, which is why I suggested things in general to make that easier.

Ordinary combat magic isn't needed but the rest I think would enhance our ability as a swordsman and bodyguard.

>>27273563
Yes. That'd come up when we ask for tutelage, though.

>>27273529
Knives are good. Such as throwing knives.

>>27273571
Seriously dude, have you been in this quest long? Pics aside, this isn't even very animu, let alone Waifutime Happyplace. Just relax a bit, ok?

>>27273626
Throwing knives, a few for enclosed spaces and crowds were we cannot sword effectively. I'm not above razorblades in the hatbrim and knifes up our sleeves. It's sort of us vs. Everybody when it comes to protecting the princess, and we need every edge we can take.

>>27273636
>this isn't even very animu
Let's not have this argument again. You're wrong though.

>>27273675
Exactly.

Are we using a one-handed sword? Because if we are, we could get a parrying dagger.

>>27273687
I like having this argument :<
But the point isn't that it's Aminu>European or European>Croation or Fairys>Buttmonsters.
The point is that the overlay is pretty much up to the reader at this point.

>>27273705
Seconded. And where can we get some brass knuckles? Preferably the spikey, less than legal kind?

>>27273747
I doubt that they'd be illegal when you're part of the Royal Guard.

My best bet for that would be to go and find the blacksmith and ask him to make some for us.

>>27273747
>>27273705
Doesn't seem like a good idea for a high-caliber swordsman like us to suddenly try to drastically alter our fighting style--especially one that works well enough to land us the Royal Bodyguard position.

>>27273780
Ah, but we are a high caliber swordsman AND an experienced back alley knife fighter. I don't think we should hop right into combat with it, but it bears looking into.

>>27273735
My impression is that it's low scale animu.

Final Fantasy I, XI and XIV versus say, Final Fantasy VII.

Commoners/mooks will still be fairly mundane and pragmatic. People with a name are more likely to be younger and super skilled, and wear somewhat impractical (but not boob-plate tier) armor.

>keep talking

"If Princess Luciana isn't busy the entire time she's here, maybe you could clear your schedule for her?" you suggest.
"That was my intent," she replies, taking another sip of tea. "With the exception of Pauline, all of my tutors also live here in the castle so it wouldn't be very difficult to switch things around. And I would not be opposed to cancelling my ballroom dancing classes for a day or two."
"I see," you say as you pour yourself another up of tea. "Would you happen to know about her security situation? I'd like to know what I should expect regarding potential bodyguards and that kind of thing," you ask.
"How diligent of you," the Princess says with a smirk. "Luciana's father likes to switch out her guards every six months or so, as he's rather paranoid about her growing too close to them. And he makes a point of only employing male bodyguards, as he thinks that a woman wouldn't do as well a job."
"Hm," you reply.
"Though it was rather amusing when the bodyguard she had the last time she was here got into an argument with Nicolette... he challenged her to a duel and was utterly humiliated."

>[1/2]

>>27273780
I am:

>>27273464

I think most of what we try to learn should be related to improving our ability as a swordsman & bodyguard, but we shouldn't completely neglect some things.

Such as having *some* kind of ranged weapon that's portable when we need it. Because there will be times when we may need to use a ranged weapon.

No fireball casting. But buffing our physical abilities? Having magic abilities that revolve around fighting mages while retaining our swordsmanship? A magical shield to help protect the princess or something? Those are worth looking into.

>>27273799
And the thing is? That's entirely a fair impression.

I'm picturing more Tolkeiny/D&D levels of fantasy in my headcanon, with some young but powerful people and (so far) a hell of a lot more old but crazy badass people.

But the best part about a text medium is that we can both read this and imagine anything we want and have a great time.

I guarantee there's someone reading this quest right now who'se imagining everyone is a fox or something, and he's having just as much fun as the rest of us.

Hooray quest threads!

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>>27273802
>[2/2]

"Heh. I kind of wish I could have seen that," you reply with a chuckle.
"I wasn't around to watch, but Sir Vincent told me that it was quite embarassing for the bodyguard," the Princess replies as she takes another sip of tea.

You talk for a bit longer, but then the time for tea ends and the two of you exit the courytard for the next stop in the Princess's schedule.

As you walk through the winding hallways of the castle, the sound of armored boots grows closer...

...and you are soon face to face with the last person who you wanted to see.

"Oh? Princess Marianne! I truly am blessed to have been lucky enough to meet you a second time today!" Monique says as he gives a deep bow. As he rises back up, you look at his face... his nose is covered with a bandage, but he looks otherwise unhurt.

And that smarmy grin hasn't changed at all.

>say something
>don't say anything

>>27273974
>>say something
"Hey, how's that nose?"
Give a toothy grin, too.

>>27273974
>don't say anything
She can easily order him to leave, if she wishes.

>>27273974
Maybe...maybe we can try to get on a good foot.

Apologize for decking him, offer him a drink. Asshole comment at any point? Offer a sparring match.

>>27273974
>don't say anything

We know she doesn't care for the guy, so let her handle this. We made our point for the day when we sent him flying earlier.

>>27273974
>say something
"I'm going to save you a lot of time--She isn't interested. She can't stand you. Go back to your mirror."

>>27273974
"Oh good, you're still here! The princess is too busy to talk to you now, but perhaps you and I could have a sparring match later?"

>>27273974
Fuck this clown. Let's just be like "her highness has an engagement" and keep walking.

>>27273974
>say something

"Spare the princess your annoying banter"

Then just walk past him

>>27273974
>say something

"The Princess has a pressing engagement and we ought not tarry. I'm sure you understand."

Marianne hates his guts, let's give her an easy excuse to not have to spend any more time in his presence. She could tell him to fuck off, but let's not make her show a lack of decorum.

>>27274031
Only if we plan to break his legs into little pieces during the match.

>>27274030
That doesn't seem like the right thing to say, we have to at least pretend to be civilized.

>>27274009
Hell no. He deserved that punch and he called Nicolette's mother a whore. He's beyond befriending.

>>27274009
He got pissed over losing a tournament fair and square. Then mocked a woman. I'd say "no".

>>27273799
A low-tier animu weapon that could totally exist would be:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViYMbow6Rf0

This slingshot/staff/spear/polearm.

>>27274030
He'll probably just think that means we want to bang her, and are jealous of him.

>>27274110
Are you suggesting we would offer a sparring match and then willfully injure our opponent? For shame anon.

Plus, I figured we'd fracture his sword arm, put him off for a few months.

>>27274136
I suggested legs because the thought of him trying to be suave while on crutches is utterly hilarious.

>>27274157
>>27274136
We were already warned not to piss him off any further since he has connections--we dont.

Lets stay professional and let her handle it

>writing

>>27273974
These >>27274060 and >>27274110

Brush him off, get to the next place on the Princess's schedule.

He probably wants to cause a ruckus and challenge us to a duel or some stupid bullshit like that. Or annoy the Princess more. Don't sink to his level, we have a job to do.

>>27274157
Ah, but no hand kissing with both his arms in casts.

>>27274179
You're no fun. Granted, you're responsible and your point is very valid, and let's be honest I agree with you, but I still want to break parts of him and damn the consequences.

>>27273464
>ranged

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kb4gBguXX6s

Maybe this, combined with throwing knives. This is small & compact, requiring less general motion/movement than a knife. So you can sneak it out your cloak and shoot.

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"The Princess is actually quite busy today, so if you don't mind..." you say to Monique as you try and pass him... but he doesn't move, and neither do his men.

And Monique himself doesn't even look at you.

"I do apologize for my poor showing earlier, Princess," he says to her while ignoring you outright. "If this... -lout- hadn't sucker punched me and instead challenged me to a duel as a proper gentleman would, he would see that my skills have improved quite a bit since our match a month ago."

>say something
>don't say anything
>punch him again, he's asking for it

>>27274360
do we have a leather glove we can slap him across the face with by any chance?

>>27274360
>>don't say anything

Just give him a friendly smile.

>>27274360
>>punch him again, he's asking for it
It's so funny!

>>27274360
>punch him again, he's asking for it

I know this is a bad idea, but he is such an easy target.

>>27274360
"I do so hope you have improved how is tonight at 12 sound in the taring yard?"

>>27274360
"We can have a duel later if you'd like. Kindly stand aside."

>>27274360
>say something

Move. Or I will have to apologize to the princess for getting blood on myself a second time today.

>>27274360
Ooh, oooh, I think we overheard one of the whores talking about this! This is when we take off our gauntlet and break his jaw with it!

>don't say anything

Lets keep Gregory's advice in mind. We wont get away with it if we just punch him right now anyway. And dueling him will give him what we wants. Fuck him. He just wants to provoke us.

>>27274360
>say something
Princess, shall we go now?

>>27274360
No punching, he's ready for it. This time we do it properly.
Tell him to get out of the way, he's impeding the princess. If he doesn't... move him.

>>27274360
"Princess, you're the political one, here. Can I just punch him again, or do I really have to fight him?"

Don't punch him again. Let the princess respond. In fact we don't even need to give him a duel, Although we could if it comes to it.

>>27274454
This.

Ask the princess if she wants to leave. Ignore Monique and dont give in to his passive aggressive flamboyant bullshit.

Do this
>>27274454
With these actions
>>27274479

>>27274479
Fine we'll be responsible.

Changing from >>27274425

He'll be expecting another punch. Fight verbally this time.

>>27274360
Let's just punk him. He'll react, then we'll laugh, then his men will laugh.

It'll be just like Ye olde HigheSchoole.

>>27274479
this

For the record, I'm sure we can take him in a fistfight, but I don't think we could do it fast, and we don't want to brawl in front of the princess.

>>27274412
pretty much this
if we do fight him all we will end up doing is just enabling the smug twit

>writing

"Being a gentleman does not have to do with spending 2 hours a day grooming & styling long hair unbefitting of a soldier. Nor does it have to do with wearing bright, obvious ceremonial armor made more with the scrutinizing eye of an artist than smith. Nor does it have to do with being passive aggressive and getting so bitter because you lost in a tournament fair and square.

Nor does it have to do with flaunting your superiority because of whose womb you came out of. Nor grabbing a woman's hand, or whispering empty words of honey to curry favor.

It's about being polite and respectful.

>>27274605
This. Please. Can we do this?

>>27274605
THIS. And then ask her if we shall leave

>>27274605

Thirded

>>27274605
>Being a gentleman is not about spending 2 hours

Fixed for grammar.

>>27274605

I'll also second peppering this in since we're coming to a post vote consensus.

>>27274605
Fourthed.

Let it slide, OP. This sums up his character pretty well.

>>27274360
"You do realize this hole "pretty boy" act is kinda repulsive to the princess right? Anyways, why would I challenge a poor excuse for soldier like you to a duel when you insult my colleague and disrespect my princess with over familiarity?"

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Doing your best to resist the urge to punch Monique in his stupid smug face a second time, you instead put on your best smile.

"I'm sure that you think of yourself as a gentleman," you begin, "but I'm pretty sure that it has nothing to do with spending hours grooming and styling that long hair of yours."
"...what was that?" Monique turns his eyes to you without moving his head.
"It doesn't have anything to do with wearing that overly fancy armor of yours, either," you continue, "or with being passive-agressive about losing a tournament fair and square."
"...and what would a whoreson like you know about being a gentleman?" Monique replies, finally turning to face you properly.
"I'm pretty sure that it's about being polite and respectful, and you're doing the total opposite by standing here in the hallway and wasting the Princess's time."
"...so the mongrel fancies himself a gentleman now?" Monique says to you, laughing to mask his anger. "You may think highly of yourself now that you've stolen this position as the Princess's bodyguard from me, but I assure you..."

Ignoring him, you turn to the Princess.

"Would you like to go now, Princess?" you ask her.

But before she can respond, you hear a familiar voice speaking loudly.

>[1/2]

>>27274940
>"You may think highly of yourself now that you've stolen this position as the Princess's bodyguard from me, but I assure you..."
>Ignoring him, you turn to the Princess.
>"Would you like to go now, Princess?" you ask her.

I laughed.

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>>27274940
>[2/2]

"Aah~ and what's going on in here in the hallway?" Arnaud shouts as he approaches you. "I certainly hope that this isn't related to that little brawl that occurred this morning..." he says as he stops in front of you and Monique.
"...and who might -you- be? A servant?" Monique replies, sneering.
"My name is Gillaume Arnaud," he says with a deep bow. "You're Marcel Gilbeault's third son, yes? I am... acquainted with your father."

Upon hearing Arnaud's full name, monique's eyes widen in terror.

"You're... -that- Gillaume..." he chokes out.
"Ah, so he's spoken of me?" Arnaud replies with a smile. "And judging from your reaction, I'm sure you know what happens when you insult people who I am fond of..."

The air in the hallways suddenly grows thick with a tremendous pressure that you recognize as pure bloodlust. You can't help but shudder a little, but then you look over at its target, Monique.

"B- Border Guard! Let us leave this place! IMMEDIATELY!" Monique says, his face pale as snow.

Without even bothering to look back at you, Monique and his men make a total about face and hurry down the hallway and out of sight.

"Ah... perhaps I overdid it?" Arnaud says, an embarassed smile on his face.

>say something
>don't say anything

>>27275120
Drop to our knees.

"Please. Teach me your ways."

>>27275120
Honestly, I think we should know better to be surprised. He has already shown he is a bit more than a domestic servant, and you hardly get to old age like that if you are not good.

>>27275120
Could you teach me...even one hundreth of that? Please?

>>27275120
>>say something

Short, curt bow and a thank you for diffusing the situation. We can talk to him on our free time.

>>27275120
>>say something
"No, I'd say you didn't do it hard enough."

>>27275120
"Sorry to have such an unseemly rivalry in front of you Princess, but when they approach during my duty I have no choice."

"Thank you Amaud, for everything."

>>27275120
"I would be honored to learn from you."
But seriously, we do actually have shit to get to.

>>27275161
this is a good one

>>27275161
To be a rivalry, both of us have to care.

But yeah
>>27275156
Maybe with a "You'll have to teach me that later"

>>27275161
Yeah, vote for this.

>>27275158
This should be good, though we would hardly do to dally too long, or the princess will get impatient.

>>27275180
>>27275158
These two.

>>27275180
incorrect, if one of the pair regularly challenges the other, it's a rivalry, in this case his rivalry inconveniences the princess so it's extra unseemly.

>>27275120
"I need to learn how to do that."

>>27275161

Don't admit he's our rival. Beside we deserve someone way better than that creep to test us.

>>27275200
I don't even want us to imply that we care though. It strikes me as putting him anywhere near our level, which I am against

>>27275120
>say something

Start laughing, once we calm down a bit and control ourself think of Monique running away like that and laugh some more.

"I would say you did just enough. Thank you Arnaud.

If it wouldn't be a bother could you teach me some time? I am well aware that I have much still to learn."

>>27275223

I agree, I think the better way to go about it is: we're his rival, but he's not our rival. Kind of like a one sided, ''you're not even on my radar'' thing.

>>27275259
Exactly what I was going for. Agreement Unlocked!

>writing

You turn to Arnaud, amazed. Part of you wants to drop to your knees and beg him to take you as his apprentice.

But now isn't the time, the Princess is still waiting.

"Sorry for having that unseemly argument in front of you, Princess," you say as you turn to her, "but they didn't exatly leave me a choice," you continue, giving a slight bow.
"As long as they're gone," she replies, turning to Arnaud. "Thank you for diffusing that situation, it was getting -quite- annoying."
"Any time, my dear Princess." he replies.
"Yeah, thanks for the backup," you say to Arnaud. "Maybe you could teach me how you did that sometime..."
"...haha, it would be my pleasure! But I have things to do, and I believe that you do as well..."

Giving another deep bow, Arnaud continues on his way. The two of you follow suit, and resume your journey to the Princess's next destintion... a library.

>[1/2]

>>27275479
BROMANCE GO!

>>27275479
And there goes Best Butler...

>>27275479
>a library.
Wait, they have multiple libraries in this castle? That's just inefficient.

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>>27275479
>[2/2]

"Your next lesson is in here?" you ask her, a bit confused.
"There is some reading that I need to finish today," she replies as she proceeds into the library.

Surrounded by books, you wonder what the Princess wanted to finish reading... and then you suddenly feel the presence of someone standing -right- behind you.

"Why if it isn't the lovely Princess Marianne! And Reinhold as well, it certainly is nice to see you," Gerhard says, bowing slightly.
"Hello, Gerhard," the Princess replies, completely unfazed.
"Feel free to take a seat, I shall fetch your book."

With that, Gerhard turns a corner and completely vanishes. Not bothered by this, the Princess follows his advice and heads to a nearby table, sitting down in the closest seat...

...and you notice that someone else is sitting there as well.

"Um.. good afternoon, Princess!" Sylvie squeaks, hiding behind a large stack of books. "...you too, Reinhold!"
"Hello, Sylvie. So the two of you have met? I suppose that saves time in introductions..." the Princess replies.

>say something
>take a seat silently
>[OTHER]

>>27275582
Mention that we ran into her at dinner. Would be impolite not to. Other than that, be silent and don't interfere with reading.

>>27275582
>>say something
Greet Sylvie, ask about how her studies are going.

>>27275582
>say something
Combine >>27275595 with >>27275604.

>>27275604
>>27275595
Why not both?

>>27275582
>say something

"We met at dinner last night.

Afternoon Sylvie. That's quite a stack of books you have there. Are your studies going well?"

And we could probably ask for a book for ourself to read, I really am not worried about things with Gerhard around.

>>27275629
yup

>writing

>"I'll just wait for one more update"
>it comes
>respond, check some other threads
>writing
>"Okay, one more update"
>it comes
>respond
>writing
Dammit, I've got to go to sleep at some point. Good night folks.

>>27275751
This is the... fifth time I'm up late doing my Uni homework and instead reading this thread.

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"Yeah," you say as you turn towards the Princess, "we met last night in the kitchen."
"I see. Having an eating contest with Nicolette, I bet," she replies.
"So," you turn to Sylvie, "I see that you have quite the stack of books there. Is all of that for your magic studies?" you ask.
"Um, yes, I'm reading up on magical theory and Script Invocation... it's very complicated, but I think I'm starting to get a hang of it all thanks to Mr. Gerhard," Sylvie replies as she sinks most of her face behind the stack of books.

"That's very kind of you," Gerhard replies, having seemingly materialized right next to Sylvie. She lets out a squeak of surprise before hiding her blushing face behind a book. "Here you go, Princess. If you need anything else, feel free to ask and I shall be right there."

>talk to someone
>ask for a book (specify what)
>stand quietly and guard like the guard you are
>[OTHER]

>>27275779
>>ask for a book (specify what)
Book on philosophy? possibly Nietzsche-ish in nature?

>>27275779

Ask for a book on duelling etiquette.

The kind that has all the dirty tricks not explicitly prohibited by the rules.

>>27275779
>Script Invocation
so many programming jokes could be done here
oh, and let's see if we can find some kind of "magic 101"

>>27275799
No Nietzche-type stuff in this world... yet.

>>27275779
>talk to someone
Tell Sylvie that it does sound complicated and her dedication is impressive.

>ask for a book (specify what)

Ask Gerhard if he has any swordfighting manuals, especially translated foreign ones, or failing that any books of ADVENTURE!

>>27275811
How about Hobbes

>>27275800
I'll support this. It's good to know them even if we don't use them.

>>27275779
Ask for a book on map ciphers.

>>27275817
His type of philosophy is more popular in the west, but not around here.

Oh yeah, we still have the map. Well, that'll be for next time.

>>27275838
The Prince?

>>27275875
Damnit Wrenloft, we're a fucking bodyguard. Not a philospher.

>writing

>>27275905
doesn't mean we can't be cultured

>>27275905
>implying that the best bodyguard isn't a philospher.

Anyway.

>>27275800

is good.

>>27275916
>>27275925
I'm not saying we can't be. But we're 17, a master swordsman and a bodyguard.

We wouldn't know to ask for stuff like this or likely want to if we did.

Not saying we couldn't pick it up eventually, but even if we can read, that would go over our heads. There's only so much willing suspension of disbelief I can take.

>>27275916

Sure it can, it seems we're playing with limited time resources what with all the

> What do you want to do before going to bed?

skill levelling mechanisms. if we become a philosopher, that means it has to come from something else.

Which is also why all those lists full of stuff we need to learn are a bit silly.

>>27275949
Reinhold can read, but he's probably not fabulous at it. Tripfags can be so...strange.

Besides. We haven't even met the rest of the castle/royal guard yet. We need to get that squared away before we sequester ourselves in a tiny room reading. It's going to be more valuable making friendships/alliances than reading about how much people suck and the leviathan consumes us all.

Why don't we ask about magic? Is it innate? Can anyone learn it? How can we gauge if we have any magical talent? Is it possible to combine swording and magic in a supernatural martial art? Any examples of things like that? WHat's a good book for starting to learn about how magic works?

>>27276016
Focus, anon, don't blow your load just yet. We've got a pile of books already.

>>27276016
We're a swordsman. We were hired for our swording, not our magics. That's Sylvie's job.

>>27276035
I agree that if we can learn it, getting some magic up in would be a good plan. We're already a light armor fighter with reasonable smarts. Got the making of a swordmage.

>>27276054
We can learn the magic of swording things.

>>27276072
Muscle Wizard is go?

Or is this like a Stabbing is Magic scenario?

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"Hey Gerhard," you begin, "do you happen to have any books on swordfight etiquette or dueling, that kind of thing?" you ask.
"I believe I do... just a moment," Gerhard replies as he heads behind a bookshelf. He then returns a few minutes later, holding a thin book. "Here you go. 'A true gentleman's dueling form,' by Marquise Gilbeault." he says, handing it to you.
"...Gilbeault?" you say, wary of that name.
"Yes, he was a reknowned duelist about seventy years ago. His skill with the sword brought his family into the nobility, and then he proceeded to write several books about proper form in his later years," Gerhard explains.
"...I see."

With that, the three of you get to reading while Gerhard... disappears. You find the dueling book rather interesting, containing informtion on proper challenge etiquette, the types of equipment allowed, various dueling types, valid enchantments...

...and just as you finish reading, you notice the Princess getting up from her seat.

"You're finished, PrincesS?" Gerhard asks, seemingly having been standing right next to her this entire time.
"Yes, thank you," she replies as she hands the book back to him.
"Any time, Princess.

She then turns to you.

"That will be all for today, so you'll be dismissed after you escort me to my room," she says to you before turning to Sylvie. "Goodnight, Sylvie. Give your father my regards."
"Um- goodnight, Princess! I'll be sure to do so!" she replies.

>say something
>be a silent guard and leave
>[OTHER]

>>27275978
To be a tripfag, you have to have a trip code.

So for future reference that means he's a strange namefag, not a strange tripfag.

>>27276085
>Say bye to Sylvie
>Silent on the way to the room unless the princess says anything

>>27276085
Say goodnight to Sylvie. On the way back to the room, mention to the Princess that some minor education on magic might be useful to us.

>>27276101
my b. he's a weird motherfucker all the same though.

>>27276085
>Say departings (that's the opposite of greetings, right?) and then shut up.

>>27276085
Ask if we can borrow the book and then what >>27276103 suggested

>>27276080
This is like we stab so hard the universe runs backwards. We sword until it's basically magic. Mundane impossibilities for the dedicated man.

>>27276121

It probably wouldn't be a big deal, but I never liked asking to borrow something without returning what I already have first, but that might just be some mild OCD.

>>27276141
So, we're Fighter. We're going to swordly do the impossible because we can.

Rolled 64

>>27276141
>roll to stab universal constant
Ok, I can get behind this

>>27276142
Me too. I hate feeling like a mooch.

>>27276142
No, that's common courtesy/not being an asshole.

>>27276152
Fighter or Fake Assassin or probably a lot of people. For our next trick, we have to learn to parry the earth and develop flight.

>writing

>>27271519
From the thumbnail that kind of looked like a tiny animu girl with a scrappy moustache.

"See you later, Sylvie," you say.
"Um, yes! Goodbye, Reinhold!" she replies.
"You too, Gerhard."
"It's always a pleasure," he replies while bowing.

And with that, the two of you leave the library and head up to the Princess's room. Fortunately, nobody causes any trouble for you on the way, and it's not long before you reach the Princess's room.

"Today certainly was exhausting," Princess Marianne says as she gives a long sigh. "Though you were a bit more violent than I'd like, I suppose you handled yourself well."
"Thanks, Princess," you reply.
"If Arnaud hadn't scared him off, would you have punched -that man- a second time?" she asks you, genuinely curious.
"I can't say that I didn't -want- to, but I was trying not to press my luck any more than I already had."
"...I see. Anyways, goodnight."
"Goodnlght, Princess."

She then walks into her room, closing the door behind her. Stretching your arms in relief, you set out to enjoy your free time...

>how do you spend the rest of the night?

>>27276308

>Guard Rank Up!
>Congratulations, you are now a pathetic Rat!
>Snakes eat rats... but rats are ranked above them?

>You did well, defending Nicolette's honor!
>And then you restrained yourself from punching Monique a second time!

>Though she still isn't fond of you, the Princess dislikes you a bit less!
>You're still not considered a person, though.

One or two more posts before I call it a night, guys.

>>27276315
Yessssssssssssssssssssssssss.

>>27276308
We've got still got some books right? I can't remember what they are but it's dicky to have them and not be reading them. So let's read them.

>>27276308
repeat the steps to properly ask someone in duel.
that bastard will eat steel the next time we meet

btw, are these duels to death?

>>27276308
No one will practice with us, so that's a bust. In no particular order, let's get some food and talk to whoever's in the kitchen, do some training, swing by the armory to get some knives, brass knuckles, and other trinkets, and, if we see Sylvie or... Gerhart? get some mage knowledge.

>>27276308

Reading. Let's read up on proper dueling technique.

>>27276328
Me again, I'm adding a sketch or two if we have the time. Lower priority.

>>27276315
>We rats now
Go and grab some food, hopefully we will run into Arnaud

>>27276308
Return the map to Gerhard.

>>27276327
You read and memorized the important things in the dueling book.

Dueling to the death in matters of honor is a thing, but most duels are usually until one party surrenders or is unable to continue.

Fatalities are rare, unless decapitation or heart stabbing is involved.

>>27276328
A few people will practice with us. Lancer will, but there are scheduling conflicts so far. Also Saber and TATARI were mentioned to be potential teachers.

>>27276408
If we run into them, we'll ask. Otherwise, I'm stand by my posts

>>27276328
>>27276339

>>27276328
This seems good. Though if we see anyone we can train or spar with we should see if they're free.

>writing

>>27276315

I wonder when we get ranked up to Dog.

>>27276468
I think the consensus is that we want to rank past Dog and into something like Honey Badger or Sentient Typhoon and just stop giving a fuck what anyone thinks.

>>27276477
>Dire Honey Badger
ftfy

>>27276484
>Dire hurricane

>>27276484
Appreciate that, mate.

>>27276484
>>27276492
Between the two of you, y'all are going to be responsible for my next TPK.

>>27276492
Hurricane is a location based privilege, check your location-entitlement.

I move for Dire Earthquake.

>>27276503
We could put the two together.

>Dire Nrvnqsr

I'm not sure templates work like that. I'm not even sure that's a template. I'm damn sure going to try.

Your stomach is starting to make its desires known, so you decide to head down to the kitchen. You've pretty much memorized the way down there, so it doesn't take long.

As you approach the entrance to the kitchen, you hear the sound of footsteps approaching. Looking in the direction that they came from, you spot... Sylvie.

And she's running.

"Um, hello again," you say, a bit surprised to see her so soon.
"Ah- Reinhold, hello!" she stammers as she tries to catch her breath.
"...is there some reason why you were just running?" you ask.
"Yes, Nicolette asked me to come eat dinner with her earlier, but then I got distracted reading in the library... it wasn't until you and the Princess left that I noticed the time!"

The two of you enter the kitchen, where you see Nicolette already sitting at the table.

>what do you say?

>>27276521

"Wow, our schedules fit for once."

>>27276517
Isn't that like all the templates put together?