Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Avalon29 on 14-03-2020, 07:24:57</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Avalon29</strong> on <strong>14-03-2020, 07:24:57</strong>
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				The tri color school of Sandhollow hill stood alone&nbsp; in the remains of a burned out forest, torn up by craters of explosions and bunkers, feral and mindless animals roamed around the city.&nbsp; It was a battlefield, an old one from the battle with the single largest battle count in the war of the three houses. The school itself was large a building of stone and wood constructed the remains of an outpost. The gate was a char black, reinforced wood covered with the ashes of the burnt trees. So that no one could forget just why the school had been built where it was.<br><br>Inside of the&nbsp; rebuilt outpost the more imposing features faded away to one of refined elegance, meant for the comfort of the royal families who were to go to school there.&nbsp; Long&nbsp; plush rugs for easy walking, comfy chairs in the various lounging area with torches and lanterns lighting the way. Following the halls upon entrance to the school would lead the way to the dining hall. Along the way windows which pointed allowed cheery sunlight into the halls but also a look out at the desolate lands around them and tapestries of war, brutal war, filled some of the halls until the arrival at the audience chamber.&nbsp; <br><br>IT was a large auditorium meant for entertainment and also speeches The schools staff were currently arranged along the wooden stage. A tall scared woman with bright red hair stood in the center. Arrayed to her left were another two adults. A dark skinned woman in furs and leathers, who watched the area seriously, a lightly armored woman with long black hair done up in a ponytail dressed in a simple breastplate with a rapier at her side who looked like she smiled way too often. To the right a mature woman in robes with a staff and a large purple witch’s hat, while finally a woman in simple leathers with a bow and dagger stood in a relaxed position, looking like she wanted to be anywhere else. It was the start&nbsp; of the second year of the school and a new chance for the three houses to learn together and mend bridges with the second generation or at least that was the goal of the academy. Nothing ever went according to plan. The first year had been rough but they had all learned and were more careful this year.<br><br>Scattered about the auditorium were long buffet tables covered with hors d'oeuvres and finger sandwiches with bowls of punch or tea to drink Just because the city was in the middle of the battlefield did not mean the school could not be a flower in the middle of the desert so to speak where one could rest. A servant stood by the door giving out pamphlets and guards who were ready to step in in the case of fights breaking out. Meanwhile several other servants all dressed in neutral colors and avoiding all instances of blue, yellow and red or otherwise wearing all three at once, showed in the new arrivals and returning students ho had made it through the first year into the lounge to relax and mingle while preparations were finished for the opening ceremony.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>14-03-2020, 21:20:32</strong>
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				The summons to the opening assembly sounds, yet Sekmet remains up on the battlements of the school wall, arms crossed, staring out at the landscape around the school with haunted eyes picking out so many grim landmarks.&nbsp; At a discrete distance, one of her people (a girl from one of the minor houses) keeps watch.&nbsp; It is unlikely that there will be any perfidy here, let alone on Opening Day, but only a fool takes no precautions, especially since she is not bearing Abjure-Injustice today.&nbsp; It would not be appropriate to arrive for the opening feast fully armed.<br><br><strong><em>There the River Lords stood, before we cut them down to the last squire.&nbsp; Brave souls, every one.&nbsp; And that is where the desperate charge of the Scarlet Cataphractoi broke.&nbsp; Barely one in ten survived.</em></strong><br><br>She keeps her face still and placid, knowing only too well how her own people regard her, how they have spoken in their cups about offering her the Suzerainty if not the Crown should the current Heir prove too weak for it...knowing it, hating it.<br><br>Behind her, the other girl clears her throat softly, reluctant to interrupt.<br><br><strong>"We ought to attend presently, Lady.&nbsp; Our absence will be noted otherwise and comment will be made of it."</strong><br><br>Sekhmet sighs internally and replies with a stiff, formal nod.&nbsp; This is true enough--she's pushing the limits of what is permitted by being up here before the school is properly open, but she was early and has already secured her quarters so coming up for a few moments of private contemplation was a temptation too easy to indulge.<br><br><strong>"No snubbing our foes on the first day, is it,"</strong> she replies, the humor in her tone desert-dry as she turns away from the scenery.&nbsp; <strong>"I could eat, and if not a few speeches will add sauce to my appetite."</strong><br><br>The guard snorts softly, shakes her head, grins, then falls in to Sekmet's left and slightly behind as they make their way down into the school proper.&nbsp; They cut an interesting pair: Sekhmet, clad in her dark leathers with a saffron-bright sash around her narrow waist, might seem the guard, as her companion is wearing a more traditional noblewoman's robes for the occasion.&nbsp; Soon they join the throng, slipping easily into the press of students...Sekhmet's fingers twitch at the closeness, feeling almost naked without her blade at her side but accepting the necessity and the sacrifice.<br><br>Inside, as the room opens up and they are able to pull apart a bit, Sekhmet casts about to see if certain others have arrived.&nbsp; While she has no love for either Dog or Crow, there are members of each whose company is bearable...more than those of her fellow Scorpions, at times.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>JoanieSappho</strong> on <strong>27-03-2020, 20:42:22</strong>
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				The one thing that Elinor was glad about this whole situation was that the animal representing her house was a dog.<br>That, at least, meant that there were dogs around for her to cuddle and stroke while being nervous and worried and, although she did have to brush some hair off of her dress, at least brown fur&nbsp; didn't show up too bad on red. And, of course, was entirely lost in the fur linings.&nbsp; <br>Most importantly, though, playing with the dogs made her feel better and, for a few moments, allowed her to pretend that she wasn't stuck under the crushing, inevitable and inescapable weight of her nation's expectations, with everyone's eyes fixed, staring eternally at her seeking the slightest hint of weakness.<br><br>No, for a little while all she was thinking was 'puppy is soft and happy', which was certainly a pleasant little moment to have. <br>Her sword, as much a symbol of things as she was, was lucky in not having to be present, but the redhead knew that she had no such fortune and, with a last little attempt to brush dog hair off of her hips, drew back into the protective shell of what she was meant to be, hiding behind that paper thin lie of calm dispassion as she made her way into the hall, a slightly fixed coldness in her eyes as she surveyed all who were present and frantically held back the signs of panic that would otherwise be peeking out from behind her facade.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Premier</strong> on <strong>27-03-2020, 22:55:38</strong>
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				Mantia had taken one look at the buffet and decided that she wasn't going to stand by it all day, so she'd taken part of it with her taking bites from a whole chicken that she'd skewered with a steak knife. Still she was a dainty lady in fine company so she was being careful to not get grease on herself and what could be more civilised than eating without getting greasy? <br><br>Probably one of those elaborate dresses she'd some wear, but Mantia had settled for an absolutely massive black feathered cloak with a fluffy white trim and a few blue ribbons tied around her polished white bone armour. Thick interlocking plates with barely a gap to get even the thinnest of blades with a few scratches she hand't been able to buff out from fights past, it gave her extra bulk she really didn't need to show off.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>She's watching the people as they come in with open curiosity, waiting for a decent group to through and not being disappointed when they did. The school had looked afar to pick the best, Mantia could tell from the cold stare of the redhead or the confident walk of lady in dark leathers and saffron that the women sent here would be someone she could stand shoulder to shoulder with. <br><br>Well not literally, they were a bit small, but the idea made sense. <br><br>Raising a thin fluted glass filled to the brim with wine Mantia gives a cheerful cry to those arriving. <br><br>"Come! Have a drink! The travels must have been long!"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hoshino</strong> on <strong>30-03-2020, 07:25:56</strong>
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				"My lady, it is alright to worry."<br><br>Lucca stood near her liege lady's side, almost joined at the hip, as befitting a guardian and vassal. Her uniform, neatly pressed and proper, was also dotted with dog hair, and unlike Elinor she didn't have a fur trim to mask it. What she did have was padding that made it look more like a military uniform than a school uniform, complete with a small half-cape resting on her left shoulder. Her sword was by her side, for she didn't have the luxury of keeping it hidden. Not when her liege was surrounded by so many strangers, so many potential enemies, given the relations of the nations...<br><br>"It can be easy to get lost in the mix of it all. But you will be alright. I'll make sure no one disturbs you while we are here, I swear."<br><br>Of course, that was immediately tested with the boisterous beckoning of the black cloaked beast woman. Lucca winced, lifting a gloved hand to her ear, sticking a finger in and giving it a rub, before looking towards her.<br><br>"I suppose our first step would be to make a good first impression... Shall we have a drink, lady Elinor?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ReijiTabibito</strong> on <strong>30-03-2020, 20:31:28</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Seated a couple of tables away, near one of the windows of the auditorium, was a figure all by herself...<br><br>...well, sort of.&nbsp; While it was true that there were no people seated with her at her table, there was quite the collection of animals up against the glass pane of the window by which she was seated.&nbsp; A few people stared as they walked by her table, wondering about that very phenomenon.&nbsp; This was the girl, Mashiro, from the same country as Mantia, though much gentler in appearance, and to the unobservant, unarmed.&nbsp; However, if anyone knew anything about her country, it was clear that from her modest dress that she was one of the Druidic Circles - and they had swords that could be called upon at an instant's notice, formed of naught but the raw elements of nature itself.&nbsp; Druids like her attracted wildlife everywhere she went, though she wasn't quite familiar enough with her new surroundings to have made friends with the entire campus menagerie, yet.<br><br>Quiet, off to the side, totally normal but for the animals that attended her.&nbsp; That was Mashiro.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Avalon29</strong> on <strong>02-04-2020, 08:45:53</strong>
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				The staff members watched as the heirs and members of the various houses filtered in and gave them time to mingle and eat. There was plenty of time for it and given the purpose of the school was to make sure that no war like what happened in the past happened again. Meanwhile pamphlets were being distributed at each table, in preparation for after the opening feast.&nbsp; On one side was a list of rules that read. “Welcome so the Sandhollow school. To make sure that you live your lives here to the fullest make sure to follow these rules.” In addition to the normal rules one expected there were the following. “Do not kill, maim, poison, or otherwise fatally or permanently harm any of your fellow students no matter where they’re from.&nbsp; War crimes are forbidden. No hunting in the land outside without supervision for your own safety, and inter-house relationships are encouraged.” On the back was a map of the school, showing room locations, class locations, the training yard, and a map of the surrounding areas.<br><br>While the rules and maps were given to students the headmistress of the school although her role was more like chief protector of the school and trusted mediator between the three houses. Her voice despite the serious tone was warm if stern. “Welcome newcomers and returning students alike to Sandhollow. I am Catarina Bello and the one in charge of the school. I’m sure many of you know why you are here and just why this land has been selected as a remembrance to what all houses have done for this war and prevent such a thing from happening again. I will keep this short so you can get back to eating your meal. You will all have received the rules and map of the place. Now then, I would like you to consider who from one of the other houses you would be willing to work together with or at least tolerate for a time. Now mingle and eat. I will introduce my fellow staff and what you will doing after you have time to relax from your long trip.” She explained as she stepped back, waving at her fellows to join her off the stage and eat at their own table for a while.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-04-2020, 18:56:03</strong>
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				Sekhmet spots the armed member of the Red, wrinkling her nose in disdain.&nbsp; So gauche!&nbsp; Perhaps the girl expected to be eaten alive if she heeded the practice of not bringing steel to the opening ceremony?&nbsp; But if she was going to prove herself too frightened to trust, that was her problem.&nbsp; Her eyes continue to the young woman over whom the fool was hovering...<br><br><em><strong>Oh.&nbsp; Oh, dear.</strong></em>&nbsp; She <em>knows</em> those features, had faced them across the field of battle.&nbsp; Her jaw sets grimly, remembering the look on the older woman's face when their blades had clashed and hers had slipped through a hole in the other's defense to take her life...and then she took the fallen champion's blade as a trophy.&nbsp; It is indeed a good thing she's not wearing that openly, even if such a thing was done at the opening ceremonies! Her gaze lingers perhaps a little too long on the shy and naive seeming noble, for the girl was easy enough on the eyes.<br><br><em><strong>Just as her kinswoman had been.&nbsp; Would that I could have taken her captive instead!&nbsp; She might have been fun.&nbsp; If not for this thrice-cursed war...</strong></em><br><br>Scowling to hide her thoughts from any who might be watching, she turns away from the pair, and dons a mask of mild disdain.&nbsp; Her steps draw her closer to the refreshments--<em>another</em> clever idea to display mutual trust, having a buffet like this instead of individual meals brought by servants.&nbsp; It forced the collected students to mingle in close quarters if they wished to eat and drink...and let the servants keep a closer watch, the better to defuse any tensions before they could get out of hand.&nbsp; Of course, that was why she had her shadow, sure as that little Red puppy had her gauche companion.<br><br>But any hope of remaining impassive, aloof, and masked frees as soon as she hears the boisterous and enthusiastic greeting of the large girl in the bone-white armor and black feathered cloak, and she tilts her gaze up to get a better measure of the giant.&nbsp; She feels a hint of a smile tugging at one corner of her mouth and decides to let it continue. The point of the exercise is to prove that she's more than just a massive strategic threat, right?<br><br><em><strong>Besides, think of how much fun it would be to be in her arms?&nbsp; Probably a bit rough, but she'd be more fun than those shy and meek housemaids at Uncle's.</strong></em><br><br>She steps closer, eyes flashing with amusement.<br><br><strong>"You at least do not want for enthusiasm,"</strong> she says to the giant, keeping her tone playful.&nbsp; <strong>"Be welcome to Sandhollow.&nbsp; If you need help finding your way these first weeks, ask for Sekhmet."</strong><br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>JoanieSappho</strong> on <strong>16-04-2020, 12:33:57</strong>
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				"Perhaps," Elinor replied softly to Lucca. "Perhaps it is alright to worry, but being seen to worry is an entirely different matter, is it not?" She didn't sigh then, even though she really rather wanted to. <br>"But yes, a glass of wine would be quite welcome now. Just a glass, though," she added with a faint little smile. "There's no need to get carried away just yet."<br><br>Then her eyes fell on the big, big woman in the feather cloak and her attention was suddenly elsewhere.<br>She might know that she wouldn't get to enjoy any, that there was an arranged list of suitable and politically useful men somewhere that she would maybe get to choose from, but she definitely liked women and she just as definitely appreciated the big ones and ... wait, she recognised the woman the big woman in bone and black feathers was talking to, and the hardness came right back to her usually gentle eyes. This time, though, it wasn't there to hide behind. <br><br>"So yes," she continued, her voice clipped. "Wine would be very good now."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hoshino</strong> on <strong>19-05-2020, 06:10:26</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"At once, my lady." Lucca chuckled, a small laugh as she shook her head. "I must admit, I did offer just to excuse my having a few glasses, myself, but if..."<br><br>Her attempt at quipping was disrupted when she saw Elinor's pointed glare, and realized the clipped edge in her tone of voice. She quickly turned to match Elinor's gaze, and saw the giant and the feather cloaked woman speaking with each other. Already she had slight misgivings about the beast woman, knowing that it would be exhausting to try and keep up with that boisterous tone. But the woman who just approached her, she looked like--<br><br>... ...<br><br>No. No. Nope. Not dealing with this shit. Not on the bloody first day--<em>before</em> the first day! She would find time to have a long <em>discussion</em> with Sekhmet, for both herself and for her lady...but not right now. Besides, a drink might help steady herself when the time did finally come.<br><br>Instead, as she struck out to get some glasses, she turned her look towards the other beast woman. Rather, the woman <em>surrounded</em> by beasts. A smile returned to Lucca's face, and she nodded, before returning to her lady's side, a glass in each hand.<br><br>"Elinor, perhaps we should go introduce ourselves," she suggested, before nodding towards Mashiro. "Perhaps we could start with her. She seems less...occupied than our giant friend, but with all those animal friends she's probably no less fun."<br><br>How amusing that of the gathering of animals, it was the black feathered Scorpion that seemed to intimidate Lucca the most...
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ReijiTabibito</strong> on <strong>29-05-2020, 18:24:44</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Mashiro had been sitting quietly, off to her side, but she looked up from her seat every so often, seeing Mantia and some of the others interacting.&nbsp; She recognized a <em>few</em> of the persons present, mostly the representatives of her own nation, but...wait.&nbsp; There was one.&nbsp; Mashiro <em>thought</em> she was from the House of Blue, her and her friend that were there.&nbsp; The two of them were currently looking in <em>her</em> direction.&nbsp; She sat up - trying to remember the handful of etiquette lessons she had been taught when she'd come from the druidic countyside to the large cities of her nation - but there was still a...somewhat animal-like response to it.<br><br>Mantia was all chitin and bones and teeth; Mashiro was...a cat.&nbsp; One could practically see the upright kitty ears and the straight tail poking out from behind her as she looked in Lucca and Elinor's direction, eyes intensely focused on the two of them.&nbsp; The eyes that said <em>Me?&nbsp; Me?&nbsp; Are you paying attention to me?</em>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>JoanieSappho</strong> on <strong>30-05-2020, 01:16:11</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Elinor had to be a proper, strong futre leader, she knew.<br>So, she needed to stay there, in that room, even though <em>she</em> was there. Probably especially because <em>she</em> was present. <br>And she couldn't run off, or even walk briskly away and breaking out in tears and making Lucca hold her until she stopped was entirely out of the question even if that was precisely what she wanted to do. <br>Still, a little wobble leaked out and she did stay as close as she could to the other woman as they approached the druidic woman that was nice or, at least, off away from everyone else and thus slightly safer than most of the other women present. As there were little fluffy things around her and animals had always been comforting. <br><br>"M-may we join you?" She asked, tryin to sound calm and collected and mostly managing it.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Avalon29</strong> on <strong>31-05-2020, 03:29:29</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The various instructors&nbsp; who had been on the stage had moved to their own head table to eat, talk , and pass the time for a while to give the students from the different houses time to mingle. Understandably, most students were sticking with fellow members of their own houses. There were some who were mingling with those of other houses, namely those who were at the school the previous year but most were avoiding the other it seemed. Well they would be fixing that shortly.&nbsp; <br><br>The red head left the table and made her way to the stage so she could gather everyone’s attention. “Welcome students to Sandhollow Hill Academy. Now then I trust you have all been able to get comfortable.” Her voice was deep and booming as it filled he hall cutting through the chatter of the many gathered groups. “For those who have yet to meet me I’m Keyassandra Steeleye, the commander of the fort and more importantly the one in charge of Sandhollow.” She looked between all the students in the hall with a solemn gaze. “Now that you all have had a bit time to get to know each others you will be receiving your first assignment. Within the next ten minutes&nbsp; I want you to form a team of four to five people comprised of at least one person from each house. Those who fail will have their teams made for them and spend their first night here cleaning the entirety of the academy and giving the servants a night of rest. The time starts now!” She barked, watching from her position on the stage as many of the students started to scramble about the hall. Nobody wanted to be stuck cleaning after all.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>31-05-2020, 05:13:06</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Sensing that the loud giant was not likely going to prove at all interesting, nor take her up on the freely offered future assistance, Sekhmet retreats with her goblet of wine and cocks an ear to listen to this year's welcoming speech.&nbsp; She chokes back a wry laugh when it proved to be even shorter and matter of fact than the one she'd heard previously.<br><br>As Commander Steeleye mentioned the conditions for the first exercise, she sips her wine and turns to survey the press, intent on finding that silly sword-bearer and her delicious charge.&nbsp; The little princess fancies herself good enough to be here.&nbsp; Time to see if she'll prove to have half the mettle of her kinswoman.&nbsp; Will she reach out?&nbsp; Or will she have to be forced?<br><br><em><strong>Ah.&nbsp; And there she is, all but quivering in the shadow of her designated chaperon, talking to that little Blue in the corner.&nbsp; That's one of two other houses down at least.</strong></em><br><br>Sekhmet remains aloof for now, watching and studying the others, eyes sparkling with mischief and wit as they linger on the little princess with her fancy clothes and her dainty manners.&nbsp; While she will claim to be probing for weaknesses if asked, it is no great chore to regard...ah, yes.&nbsp; That must be Her Graceful Excellency, Lady Elinor.&nbsp; A most <em>vulnerable</em> blossom indeed.&nbsp; And Sekhmet smiles to herself.<br><br><em><strong>What are you going to do about this, little princess?&nbsp; You must needs approach one of my kind or kin.</strong></em><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Roll +Wit</div><div class="spoiler_body">Roll Result: MadPanda rolled: 2d6, adding 1 to the total<br>Comment: Figure Someone Out<br>Result: 6, 2,<br>Total: <strong>9</strong></div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Figure Out a Person</div><div class="spoiler_body">When you try to understand a person, Roll +Wit (if you spend a String on them, add 3 more)<br>10+: You may ask 2 questions from the list below, now or later in the scene.<br>7-9: You may ask 2 questions from the list below, but they may ask 1 of you.<br>● What are your feelings towards _____?<br>● What do you hope to get from _____?<br>● How could I get you to _____?<br>● What do you love most?</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Result</div><div class="spoiler_body">I get to hold 2 questions from the list for this scene, and in return Elinor will get to ask one of those questions of me.</div></div>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>JoanieSappho</strong> on <strong>02-06-2020, 10:01:41</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				While very keenly aware that <em>She</em> was right over there looking at her, no doubt thinking of claiming a second sword from her family, Elinor decided that she would instead concentrate, as much as she could, on the druid instead. <br>At least she wasn't quite so terrifying to be around, even if Elinor still felt the urge to burrow into Lucca's side for comfort from all of the dangerous people around who definitely wanted to do terrible things to her. <br><br>"So," she began, smiling warmly and hoping that the initial slight wobble in her voice wouldn't be noticed. "If you join us, that'll be three people and two Houses sorted out right away, and we'd just have to find one more person to do that. So, please?"<br><br>As she spoke, earnestly and warmly, Elinor was quietly at work, taking in where the other woman's gaze was and where it went, shifting slightly to ensure that the most appealing and trustworthy seeming sides of her were on full display and generally just subtly trying to manipulate her into saying yes.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Roll+Heart</div><div class="spoiler_body">JoanieSappho rolled: 2d6, adding 1 to the total<br>Comment: Entice<br>Result: 2, 4,<br>Total: 7</div></div> <div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Entice</div><div class="spoiler_body">Entice<br>When you appeal to someone’s physical or romantic sensibilities, Roll +Heart:<br>10+: Gain a String on them and they choose 1 from the list below.<br>7-9: Gain a String on them, unless they decide instead to choose 1 from the list<br>below.<br>● Get flustered and awkward<br>● Promise something they think you want<br>● Give in to desire</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Figured Out</div><div class="spoiler_body">Elinor will see what Sekhmet wants to get from her.</div></div>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-06-2020, 18:30:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">What Sekhmet Wants</div><div class="spoiler_body">Sekhmet wants Elinor to reach out and invite her into the group that she and her bodyguard are forming with the Druid.</div></div><br>Sekhmet's eyes narrow.&nbsp; No, this little flower was nothing like her more militant kin, which would explain the bodyguard, wouldn't it?&nbsp; Too shy, too halting.&nbsp; Even in the approach, she ought to command attention when she puts forth a show of outward humility.<br><br>Unless <em>that</em> is the stratagem: the helpless prey that proves to be the lure for an ambush.<br><br><em><strong>But soft, she flirts...ah.&nbsp; And there we have it.&nbsp; Not so helpless after all.&nbsp; Good!</strong></em><br><br>Sekhmet's lips twist into a secretive smile.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Question One of Two for Elinor</div><div class="spoiler_body">How could I get you to declare yourself Smitten with Sekhmet?</div></div><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ReijiTabibito</strong> on <strong>21-06-2020, 15:23:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When asked if the two girls - it was quite obvious that the two of them were together (a prospect that got Mashiro's shipping sense going) - could join her, she responded with:&nbsp; "Of course!&nbsp; Please, take a seat, don't let my friends bother you, they're harmless!"&nbsp; Well...alright, maybe the deer with the gigantic antler rack outside the window wasn't entirely harmless, but they didn't seem to want to start anything at the present.&nbsp; "It's a good thing that you were approaching me before the headmistress said we have to do this team pairing thing, yes?&nbsp; We still need one more, though, but you already pointed that out, so I guess it's kind of redundant for me to say that-"&nbsp; She stopped talking, and then suddenly looked past the two of them - seemingly totally forgetting that she had been talking to them and were <em>even there</em> - spotting Mantia in the room.&nbsp; It didn't look like she was having much luck with getting into a team...then, just as quickly as she had dropped Lucca and Elinor, she came back to them.<br><br>"-but I don't really even know anyone from the last house, I don't even know you!"&nbsp; Beat.&nbsp; "OH!&nbsp; Oh, that's right, you don't know me, either!&nbsp; I'm Mashiro, it's nice to meet you!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hoshino</strong> on <strong>28-06-2020, 01:08:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lucca chuckled amicably, arms folded across her chest. "I believe the whole point of this exercise is to get us to know each other," she pointed out. "And the punishment for failing just encourages us to take this seriously."<br><br>She touched her heart and gave a proper bow. "In the spirit of taking things seriously, then, I am Lucca, and the honour is all our's. There are certainly plenty of...<em>characters</em> about at this school, it promises not to be a dull experience." As she bowed, she gave Mashiro a quick look up and down with her eyes. It was true, she didn't know Mashiro, and if they were to be allies for this challenge, it would behoove Lucca to truly get to know her better. Maybe see where they stood, to start...<br><br>Straightening her back, she looked over her shoulder to see the giantess still at the table feasting, and the black feathered witch eyeing her and her master down. Her lips tighten to a frustrated frown; surely, there were some others among the Scorpions they could turn to in order to pass this challenge? She turned to Elinor; it seemed they at least had the Druid's support, now was a matter of finding their last two allies.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Figure Out a Person</div><div class="spoiler_body">When you try to understand a person, Roll +Wit (if you spend a String on them, add 3 more)<br>10+: You may ask 2 questions from the list below, now or later in the scene.<br>7-9: You may ask 2 questions from the list below, but they may ask 1 of you.<br>● What are your feelings towards _____?<br>● What do you hope to get from _____?<br>● How could I get you to _____?<br>● What do you love most?</div></div> <div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Roll + Wit and Result</div><div class="spoiler_body">2, 5, +1 = 8. Lucca can ask 2 questions of Mashiro, but Mashiro gets to ask 1 question of her own</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>JoanieSappho</strong> on <strong>28-06-2020, 03:58:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Question One Answer</div><div class="spoiler_body">The right combination of aggressively dominant and gently caring would make Elinor smitten with just about any woman.</div></div><br>"It's a pleasure to meet you, Masahiro," Elinor smiled warmly at the other woman. "I'm Elinor, this is Lucca and ..." and the smile wobbled just a bit as she looked up and over towards the most notable of the Scorpions present. "And we just need one of<em> them</em> to join us." She sighed. <br>That <em>She</em> actively wanted Elinor to ask her to join them was evident, at least with all the glances Elinor had been giving <em>Her,</em> but she was not just going to give in and do what that person wanted!<br>She, admittedly, was having an equal lack of desire to invite any other Scorpion over but ... but fine! If Sekhmet wanted to join them, then perhaps Elinor would ask. well, sort of ask. <br><br>"Still, I suppose we do need one of those Scorpions to join us. Lucca, would you be a dear and ask- and<em> tell</em> that one-" a slight nod towards Sekhmet made it clear who she was talking about. "-that she is to join us?" <br>She'd ask Lucca, and the cute druid but, even if she wanted it, the Scorpion was going to receive an<em> instruction</em>.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hoshino</strong> on <strong>28-06-2020, 05:56:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A flash of alarm crossed Lucca's face. Her eyes drifted off to the side, unable to look at her liege or at Sekhmet, as she tried to put her thoughts together. In the end, whatever fears or concerns she had about the witch would have to stand down in the face of her duty to Elinor. Besides, it was inevitable that they'd cross paths, and likely swords, at some point. Best get it out of the way now, perhaps.<br><br>"At once, your highness," Lucca said with a bow, but let out a sigh as she turned and approached Sekhmet. Her hand rested on the hilt of her sword as she marched. It would make a better first impression to approach like a friend, or at least not as aggressively, but that would be something for Sekhmet to earn.<br><br>"You are..." There were several things Lucca could say, but she went for the most diplomatic option, "one of the Scorpions, correct? We need one of your crew in order to pass this trial, and...would like for that to be you." Lucca did her level best to sound sincere, if passive, not give in to her instinct to quickly turn and walk away...or draw her sword and jab the pommel into the witch's diaphragm.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>28-06-2020, 07:36:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"City-dweller,"</strong> is Sekhmet's response to the approaching swordswoman, although her tone is almost respectful, as if she means this to be an acknowledgement of basic fact instead of the borderline insult that one of her kind might intend.&nbsp; That, and a firm nod by way of greeting, as befits a meeting between a seasoned student and a newly enrolled one.&nbsp; At the mention of her House, she merely lets the fingers of her left hand brush the knotted sash at her hip and nods again, silently confirming the obvious.<br><br><strong>"One supposes that, given the statement of our noble Commander, it would only be polite to agree to such an insightful invitation."</strong>&nbsp; She smiles, white teeth flashing against dark skin, the expression languid and predatory.&nbsp; <strong>"One wonders whether the invitation is made in the fullness of understanding."</strong><br><br>After a long moment, head tilting to one side as if she is measuring the request, she gestures back to the small group.<br><br><strong>"Lead the way, if you would."</strong><br><br>Although, as she follows the as yet un-named guard back to the frail blossom of royalty who sent the minion forth to bid her approach, she prefers to give her eyes the liberty of gazing at the mistress rather than indulging an appreciation of the servant's firm and well-toned form...making sure that the little princess knows she is seen and recognized in the process, should she have courage enough to return the look.<br><br><strong>"I did not catch the name of your charge,"</strong> she adds when they are about halfway back.&nbsp; <strong>"Yet unless I miss my guess she has about her the look of your royal champion the Lady Rosamund...peace be upon her valiant memory."</strong><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hoshino</strong> on <strong>28-06-2020, 23:51:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Of course, right this way..."<br><br>Taciturn and to the point, that's what Lucca hoped this would be. Even for an ice-breaker, team building exercise, this was the one person she wouldn't mind going the whole day, if not the whole year, not having to mingle with. So focused on returning to her liege, Lucca didn't notice the way that she might appear from behind, or how focused on Elinor the villain actually was. But when she asks for her name, Lucca comes to a stop. She is about to answer... And once again has to fight back the urge to strike Sekhmet for her comment.<br><br>"...She is Elinor, Lady Rosamund's youngest daughter." She slowly turned to look over her shoulder, her glare firm and angry. "And I would thank you not to speak her name in our presence."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-06-2020, 00:41:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Is that so,"</strong> Sekhmet says, her voice nearly a purr.&nbsp; <strong>"That would certainly explain her beauty.&nbsp; A rare blossom, indeed!&nbsp; But an' she does not desire to hear her good mother praised for her many virtues, that is a courtesy I shall hold until I get a better measure of her mettle."</strong><br><br>With a soft laugh, she falls silent for the remainder of their approach.&nbsp; Once close enough to be more or less 'in the group' she lets her gaze sweep over both of the others, appraising them both.<br><br><strong>"Well, here we are,"</strong> she says, eyes flashing with mischief.&nbsp; <strong>"Three shy little firsties and me makes a complete group. I wonder what embarrassing social activity our illustrious Commander has up her vambraces this year?&nbsp; <em>Last</em> year it was 'spin the bottle'."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Avalon29</strong> on <strong>02-07-2020, 09:22:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Commander Steeleye looked out over the groups as they scrambled to make the required teams. Especially the second years who were very much aware that getting a punishment from the commander was not a good thing.&nbsp; She gave them the time they needed to form groups and at least introduce themselves before she kept going with the first event of the evening. The resto f the staff, instructors, and teachers watched from their spot amused by students’ scurrying .&nbsp; When things had finally settled somewhat she kept going. “Excellent. I see the most of you have managed to find a group. Those who haven’t need to see me after for your punishment.” She called out stern and cool although there may have been a twinkle in her eye.<br><br>Turning her gaze to the groups&nbsp; that had formed, there were quite a few not including the stranglers,&nbsp; she&nbsp; continued with her orders. “Now then I hope you like your group mates as you’re going to be stuck with each other for a while. There’s going to be a little competition between groups. The winner will have the chance to pick any of the non-staff bedrooms and claim them as yours for your stay. Those who come last will just have to settle for whatever rooms are left. As for the competition, it’s a simple one. Hidden around the tower are items that represent your houses. Find them and return them here to me you win. There are no other rules about how you get the objects. Oh and it starts now.” She added almost nonchalantly at the end as she moves to take her position at the head of the table there.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>JoanieSappho</strong> on <strong>02-07-2020, 10:27:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh, I doubt the task could be any worse than what I've already had to do," Elinor replied with her own faint smile, right before the instructions were given. "Now then, time for you to prove yourself useful, I suppose. A year should have been long enough for to to learn how many ways into this room there are. If there are not many, or just the one, then I propose that we allow one of the other groups to gather what we need for us."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-07-2020, 20:37:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"This?&nbsp; Would qualify as worse.&nbsp; Or at least less fun."</strong>&nbsp; Sekhmet grimaces.&nbsp; <strong>"As for the room, there are&nbsp; the main entrance, six doors that lead to the kitchens and under-chambers which are generally used by the servants and guards, the windows if one breaks the glass, and of course the passage up to the Commander's Office which is discretely tucked away behind that tapestry up at the front of the hall."</strong><br><br>She turns her dark gaze fully on Elinor, intense and probing, weighing and measuring the younger woman.<br><br><strong>"Ambushing another team?&nbsp; That seems somewhat...<em>pragmatic</em>."</strong>&nbsp; Her mouth twists into a darkly amused smile.&nbsp; <strong>"Taking lessons already, are we?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ReijiTabibito</strong> on <strong>26-07-2020, 20:15:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mashiro found herself with the two women from the Red House...but also the girl from the Yellow house, who apparently was a bit intimidating, given her particular attire and...she was pretty sure that was a sword from a Red House soldier, too.&nbsp; No matter. &nbsp;"Please, we're not going to accomplish anything by sitting around here and just <em>talking</em> about what we're going to be doing!&nbsp; Shouldn't we at least be speaking about our plans while we're in motion?"&nbsp; The druid interjected into the conversation between the two already-speaking girls.&nbsp; She moved around the table and grabbed one hand each - barely thinking of any implications that might result from the contact - of Elinor and Sekhmet, and she looked over at Lucca. &nbsp;"Come on!&nbsp; We're a team, we do this together or we don't do it at all!"<br><br>Mashiro began pulling on the pair of arms she'd grasped and leading them towards one of the staircases of the tower - they were either going to need to go up, or go down, which was the question.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>28-07-2020, 20:16:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Blinking as the one person she assumed would be withdrawn and quiet seizes her arm and begins pulling, Sekhmet permits herself a soft laugh as the young druid interjects herself and attempts to seize command of the situation.&nbsp; And in truth, the feel of those ample breasts against her arm do much to convince her to hold her tongue for the moment.<br><br><strong>"Bossy little thing, aren't you,"</strong> she says as she permits herself to be guided toward a staircase.&nbsp; Then she turns to see how the delicate princess is taking this act of <em>lese majeste</em>.<br><br>Her smile, though, is mostly one of an older sibling tolerating a younger sibling.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>JoanieSappho</strong> on <strong>03-08-2020, 12:02:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"My, how forceful," Elinor remarked, trying to sound amused and calm and collected and definitely not like there was a bit of fluttering going on in her at the other woman taking charge of her, both figuratively and physically. <br><br>In order to not think about such things right now, though, she turned back to Sekhmet. "Why, I was simply playing to <em>your</em> strengths." She replied, demurely. "After all, ambushing others and stealing from them ..." Her eyes drifted to where the Yellow girl's sword would be. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>03-08-2020, 18:56:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Whereas invading and despoiling one's neighbor on the flimsiest of pretexts is honorable, just, and heroic,"</strong> Sekhmet answers Elinor dryly, one eyebrow rising. Then she turns her attention back to the little Druid, lengthening her stride to match Mashiro's pace.<br><br><strong>"Commander Steeleye has a cruel sense of humor.&nbsp; Keep that in mind.&nbsp; She also likes to oversee the punishment of little firsties such as yourselves personally.&nbsp; Rumor has it she is fond of ropes and whips."</strong>&nbsp; Reaching the stairs, she holds back the tapestry for the others.<br><br><strong>"We go down...because everyone else will think only of going up."</strong><br><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Figure Out A Person, Part Two</div><div class="spoiler_body">What do you hope to get from me?</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hoshino</strong> on <strong>31-08-2020, 03:24:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lucca scowled at Sekhmet, not entirely appreciative of her sense of humor, nor her grabbing hold of the reins of leadership. She was fine with the druid taking the lead, but Sekhmet...<br><br>Well, Sekhmet had a point. "True. It would be easier to find our items without pushing and shoving other students and teams out of the way. Alright, everyone focus on finding your House's items. It'll probably be easier to see whatever connections the teachers might have made when selecting them."<br><br>She looked back towards the stairs, where several students were already scrambling up. "I'll make sure we have plenty of space downstairs to work with. Anyone comes running down, I'll try and misdirect them to another room, scrambling to look like I'm doing my own search. Maybe make them think they should follow my lead."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>31-08-2020, 18:40:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sekmet barely managed not to grin.&nbsp; Maybe this year's crop of new students was not doomed to be a waste? There was at least one reasonably intelligent one among them. Too bad the girl was already in the service of the pampered little princess.<br><br><strong>"An excellent stratagem!&nbsp; Dawdle forth and sow confusion among our competition,"</strong> she nodded, winking at the 'guard dog'. Then she turned to the other two.&nbsp; <strong>"After you.&nbsp; Explore as you like."</strong><br><br>It would be <em>utterly</em> unfair for her to give them a heads up about the, ah, detention rooms down there or any of the oft-used nooks and crannies where the first group of students had often sought a little privacy for delicate negotiations.&nbsp; Yes, utterly unfair.&nbsp; She was a seasoned veteran of these halls, after all, and it would promote a better learning experience if she allowed things to proceed without interference.<br><br>Besides, it would be amusing to see Elinor's reaction to the punishment cells.&nbsp; And with her bodyguard elsewhere...perhaps an opportunity to find out just how like her mother she might prove could be arranged?&nbsp; But no.&nbsp; First, the game had to be finished.&nbsp; Achieve complete superiority over the foe, then contemplate recreation.<br><br>As she followed the other two down the stairs, she let her eyes linger on Elinor's tempting rear as she studied the Red noble, wondering how best to crack her defenses.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Figure Out A Person, Part Two--Elinor</div><div class="spoiler_body">What do you hope to get from me?</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>JoanieSappho</strong> on <strong>04-09-2020, 05:18:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elinor was, behind her facade, just a little grumpy at being left down here alone with *Her*. The other girl seemed nicer, not that it would be hard to be so, but then Lucca made some very good reasons for not being around. <br>"Fine," she nodded briefly, before turning and, after a moment's thought, continuing on to the next room. With nothing else to go off of, she supposed, looking room by room seemed as good a plan as any, although perhaps not with the people she was stuck with.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Figure Out A Person</div><div class="spoiler_body"> To learn from her how to be strong. I can't think of much at all for this.</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>09-09-2020, 21:24:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				On a whim, decided somewhere along the second flight of stairs' worth of appreciative gazing upon the young woman's delectable rear, Sekhmet raises her voice, careful to keep her tone pleasant.<br><br><strong>"I would have a word with you, daughter of Rosamund?&nbsp; Let us go a ways apart, as I do not desire to say this where other ears are listening."</strong><br><br>That should get the girl's attention, and Sekhmet beckons Elinor aside...not leaving the sight of their companions, but taking some pain to show care to avoid eavesdropping.<br><br><strong>"You were looking to find Abjure-Injustice on my hip, were you not?&nbsp; Know this.&nbsp; The opening feast is a time of truce for all.&nbsp; I would not dishonor such a blade by bearing it openly here."</strong>&nbsp; Coal black eyes sparkle with grim amusement.&nbsp; <strong>"A point your guard dog has either failed to hear or is neglecting, possibly under orders.&nbsp; By bearing arms here tonight she makes you look foolish and weak.&nbsp; Remember that for next year.&nbsp; No arms the first night, nor the last.&nbsp; We come to this place in peace and leave it the same way."</strong><br><br>Her lips curve in a slight smile. It is all she can do to keep from reaching up to brush the other young woman's cheek in an affectionate manner, knowing as she does that this might be taken as something other than a moment of simple reassurance.<br><br><strong>"You <em>do</em> rather favor her.&nbsp; Softer.&nbsp; More innocent.&nbsp; There is far less pain in your eyes.&nbsp; No doubt you have been measured against her much of your life."</strong>&nbsp; Sekhmet lets out a soft snort. <strong>"No doubt your own strengths are overlooked...but this is not the moment for such talk.&nbsp; I cry your pardon.&nbsp; Let us attend to the task at hand."</strong><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header"> Entice vs. Elinor</div><div class="spoiler_body">Roll Result: MadPanda rolled: 2d6<br>Comment: Entice +heart<br>Result: 4, 4,<br>Total: <strong>8</strong></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Avalon29</strong> on <strong>12-09-2020, 05:45:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The other students certainly weren’t still while the new team formed, while quite a few were going up the stairs to search there were&nbsp; still some who decided to try for the less crowded rooms and headed for downstairs. One group in particular seemed to be making trouble as they began their approach. Led by a broad shouldered and tall brunette with her hair done up in a ponytail she&nbsp; had no problem moving through people who didn’t move out of her way and&nbsp; she didn’t much seem to care for the social niceties with the thick furs she had wrapped around her as he shoved people out of the way.&nbsp; She seemed to be headed straight for Lucca who was in the way of the tall woman and the most direct path to the stairs and the woman was bound to try to force her way through Lucca just like she had the other students. <br><br>The brunette was flanked by a pair of blondes, one with a pixie cut and another with longer hair that went down to her back who were a bit more nimble,&nbsp; easily moving around those who stumbled towards them after they were pushed and occasionally giving those stumbled students a helping hand or foot to make sure they got out of the way faster. One of those poor students a mousy raven haired girl was sent tumbling into Mashiro.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>JoanieSappho</strong> on <strong>12-09-2020, 11:37:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Letting <em>Her</em> - Elinor was definitely going to need some time to feel remotely comfortable enough to even think names - lead her off alone was probably a terrible idea, but the redhead knew that she couldn't afford to show the weakness of visibly being afraid and refusing, and that she wouldn't be entirely out of sight of others. So, a bit reluctantly, she followed Sekhmet off. <br>The news about the swords matched with what she had seen, and the sting of failure - she should have known. It didn't matter how she was meant to have known, it was entirely her responsibility to know and she had failed - hurt, but the Sekhmet got all close and weird and they weren't quite touching and that felt bad, that she wasn't being touched and, my, everything had gotten so warm in here, hadn't it?<br><br>"I will take ... take your advice under consideration," she replied, trying to remain, calm, cool and definitely not blushing or stuttering much. <br>She wasn't particularly good at it. <br>"And you will see just how innocent and soft I am, in&nbsp; time," she replied, the attempt to sound mildly threatening probably not working, much like her attempts to keep her face from getting much redder. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ReijiTabibito</strong> on <strong>27-09-2020, 20:17:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mashiro hadn't <em>quite</em> thought through the whole entirety of what she was doing when she grabbed the arms of two of her teammates and pulled them to go on the hunt. &nbsp;"OH!&nbsp; Oh, uhm...sorr-sorry..." &nbsp;Normally, she was a bit more solitary and less boisterous, but that was in her favored environment, which this was not.&nbsp; As they descended the castle to its foundation, since it was the thing that nobody was likely to do, Mashiro looked around at the environs, more entranced with them at the moment than she probably had a right to be.&nbsp; "We are looking for one item that represents each of the houses," she reminded herself.&nbsp; "What animal is most likely to appear in a basement?" &nbsp;Oh no, this whole back and forth subtext between the two girls she was currently pulling along with her was <em>entirely</em> lost on her...<br><br><br>...for now.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hoshino</strong> on <strong>27-09-2020, 21:40:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Separating from her liege, Lucca had time to think. The sword at her side felt heavy for the first time in a long time... Maybe she had been too hasty in judgment. Sure, she had every right to be concerned for Lady Elinor's safety. If anything were to happen to her... And in a place like this, even with all the rules set in places, with so many people around, people looking to harm Elinor... No, that was just Lucca's own anxiety talking. If anything, she had done the most harm of anyone that night by embarrassing her liege lady so.<br><br>She buried her face in her hands, shaking her head in frustration, that she almost missed the rushing girl squad coming at her. Looking up just in time, Lucca's eyes widened before she looked to where the others were going. Loathe she was to leave her alone with the lions, but... But the only way for her and Elinor to regain their honour was to split up.<br><br>Trusting that Sekhmet's plan of exploring the basement would pay dividends, Lucca turned back to the stairs and rushed upwards. "Hey!" she called out to an imaginary student ahead of her. "Save some for the rest of us! There's plenty!" She could only hope that their plan to entice any stragglers to follow <em>her</em> instead of the others would pan out. Mashiro the Druid was the last link in that puzzle, sticking with Sekhmet and Elinor without drawing attention...<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Figure Out</div><div class="spoiler_body">Lucca could tell she could trust Mashiro to mediate between Elinor and Sekhmet. After all, she could tell...<br><ul class="bbc_list"><li><strong>What are you feelings towards Sekhmet?</strong></li><li><strong>What do you hope to get out of Elinor?</strong></li></ul></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ReijiTabibito</strong> on <strong>18-10-2020, 03:47:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Answers &amp; Question</div><div class="spoiler_body"><strong><br>What are your feelings towards Sekhmet?</strong><br><br>Everyone else seems scared of her, cautious, a bit too worried, even.&nbsp; I don't know why - <span class="bbc_u">she's intimidating, sure, but she's not all that bad, she even smiled</span> when I just grabbed her out of the blue and pulled us all along on this quest we're doing.<br><br><strong>What do you hope to get out of Elinor?</strong><br><br><span class="bbc_u">A friend.</span>&nbsp; Why would I want anything else?<br><br>And return volley:<br><br><strong>How could I get you to <em>be honest with your feelings</em>?</strong><br><br></div></div><br><br><br>Mashiro descended the staircase with the other two girls - the third and last one (well, alright, third, she was the fourth and last one, in technicality) seemingly disappearing before they reached the basement.&nbsp; "Your friend," she asked Elinor.&nbsp; "Is she going to catch up with us?&nbsp; We need to press on ahead."&nbsp; Then, the druid turned to Sekhmet.&nbsp; "Do you know this castle?&nbsp; It's my first time here, but you seem like you know the place pretty well...you knew we could go down here from the main floor up there."&nbsp; Mashiro strode forward, her head moving from side to side, looking for the sigils of the three houses.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hoshino</strong> on <strong>18-10-2020, 19:46:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(Meanwhile in Lucca's thoughts, and the heart worn on her sleeve...)<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Answer</div><div class="spoiler_body"><em>How could I get you to be <strong>honest with your feelings?</strong></em><br>Gain Elinor's trust, and you'll have Lucca's by proxy. After that, patience but insistence will get the wall to come down, surely.</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>18-10-2020, 20:04:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"And you will see just how innocent and soft I am, in time."</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Sekhmet tilted her head, a wry smile playing on her lips. <em><strong>The puppy has fangs, does she?</strong></em><br><br><strong>"I suppose I shall, especially if you ask about the blade another time."</strong>&nbsp; She leaned in, adding two more words with a sparkle of mischief in her coal black eyes, keeping her voice so soft that only Elinor would hear.&nbsp; <strong>"In bed."</strong><br><br>She pulled away, schooling her face back into that bored mask of indifference that she used as a shield as much as anything else, and turned to face the diminutive druid.<br><br><strong>"I know it well enough, since this is my second year. We do not want to go <em>too</em> deep lest we find the chambers wherein the Headmistress plays with her pets. That's strong medicine for you firsties. But I trust the guard dog will catch up with us soon enough if she does not become lost."</strong><br><br>She studied Mashiro for a moment, as if measuring her and wondering what she would look like without her garb.<br><br><strong>"If not, I shall go fetch her. But for now we should search."</strong>&nbsp; Now she grinned. <strong>"Or rather, you two should search. I have an unfair advantage and it's hardly sporting if I simply coast to victory."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Avalon29</strong> on <strong>29-10-2020, 09:02:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Mashiro pulled Sekhmet&nbsp; and Ellinor to hurry them down the stairs the mousy raven haired girl who had been sent towards Mashiro ended up bouncing off of a table and spilling food over her, there was some laugher from nearby students and she was glowering. At everyone around her, humiliated and angry. She stormed off for now, a new look of determination on her face.<br><br>Meanwhile Sarifa, the statuesque brunette&nbsp; who seemed to be leading the two more lixible was making a beeline for the basement. With Lucca’s hasty retreat she managed to avoid bumping into the leader and direct confrontation but with a wave of her hand she sent one of the blondes who had tripped&nbsp; the girl after Lucca instead of chasing after her herself.&nbsp; The blonde with the lng hair was the one to dart up the stairs. Quite nimble too.&nbsp; She could quickly take a peek up the stairs and rejoin the other two members of her group unless Lucca did something to delay her.<br><br>Meanwhile down bellow a careful look around revealed signs that the girls were definitely headed in the right direction of one of the objects. They were subtle but there,&nbsp; a few paw prints marking a path in the stone.&nbsp; What looked like images of hunting hounds and hunters all seemed to be pointing to a large32 and old grand library room. With wall to wall shelves, books of every kind but more importantly everything seemed to be leading the way here. There was only one problem.<br><br>Sarifa and the other girl were headed straight down the stairs right behind Mashiro, Sekhmet, and Ellinore. They were headed in the exact same direction&nbsp; both of them had full reign of the tunnel without having to worry about staff spotting them. Any other students who were headed downwards that hadn’t been distracted by Lucca’s distraction weren’t much of an obstacle for the Brunette in charge who was merely pushing her way through, many students&nbsp; &nbsp;ending up pinned, pushed, or tripped with ease. Some it seemed she managed to cower into helping her. They were having more helpers now. There was a good chance that they might find the clue even before the recently formed&nbsp; team of heroines unless something was done.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-11-2020, 20:00:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Realizing who is behind them, having caught a glimpse of the haughty brunette over her shoulder, Sekhmet lays a hand on both Mashiro and Elinor's shoulder for a moment.<br><br><strong>"Speaking of undue advantage...go on ahead. Keep each other safe. Find the emblems. There is something I ought to do, and then I will see if I can find..."</strong> she pauses, mind racing as she tries to remember the guard dog's name only to realize that she doesn't know it. And while such rudeness is to be expected dealing with these pampered wetlanders, she feels a twinge of guilt at having neglected that most basic of courtesies.<br><br><strong>"Our other member,"</strong> she finishes softly. <strong>"I will stall our competition. Now go! Be swift and wise!"</strong><br><br>Turning, she stands in the middle of the hall with arms akimbo, waits for Safira and her overlarge team to approach, meets the other woman's eyes dead on, and gives the arrogant, cold laugh of an amused noblewoman. By herself, she's hardly enough to slow them down, but she knows her reputation...and at the moment, it is a useful thing to be a Bad Girl.<br><br><strong>"Really, Saffie? Is <em>this</em> the best you can do, strong-arming half the new little Firsties into being your little glee squad and beating up the ones who won't move out of your way? I suppose last year may have been a little rougher on you than I thought. That's still no excuse for such an oversized team...<em>hero</em>."</strong> The Daughter of Scorpions grins wickedly. <strong>"I guess a petty victory means far more to you than honor after all...even better that you won't have to share the fruits.&nbsp; You did explain that to them, right? Oh my...you didn't? For shame..."</strong><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Who’s the Monster?</div><div class="spoiler_body">When you expose the hypocrisy of someone who is supposedly virtuous, roll +Daring:<br>10+: Gain a String on them and choose 1<br>7–9: Choose 1<br>&gt;&gt; The wrongness of their act is exposed to all; they mark XP if they change their mind. If they don’t, they must attack you or take a Condition.<br>&gt;&gt; Your words sting; they take a Condition.<br>&gt;&gt; You impress an onlooker; gain a String on them.</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Roll +Wit</div><div class="spoiler_body">Result: 1, 3,<br>Total: <strong>6</strong>...which is a Down Beat and an XP for Sekhmet...</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Sword Lesbians of the Three Houses</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Hoshino</strong> on <strong>09-11-2020, 02:07:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was...distressing that only one of the girls broke away from the group. Distressing, but probably foreseeable. It wasn't like their own group had stuck together to examine the tower, why should Safira's? Still, the longer she could keep this blonde straggler separated, the more Elinor and the others might have an advantage.<br><br>Clearly, she wasn't going to buy an "oh, wow, look at all this stuff!" routine a second time, and even if she did she'd probably just back away, having apparently missed her chance. It was time for Lucca's methods to become more direct.<br><br>Tightening her belt, ensuring everything was secure, Lucca rushed down the stairs after the blonde and...leapt. She flipped over the blonde's head, and landed on her feet in front of her, smirking in her face, planting a foot on the wall, blocking her way, arms folded across her chest with a coy smirk.<br><br>"Guess there wasn't anything up there, after all," she cooed.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Defy Danger</div><div class="spoiler_body">For lack of specific move, Lucca will Defy the Danger of the girl rejoining her group by Gracefully getting ahead of her on the steps and blocking her way</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Roll + Grace</div><div class="spoiler_body">2, 6, +2. 10, success!</div></div>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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